A/N: I apologize for taking so long to get this chapter up. The delay is due to things beyond my control and will save you the annoyance of going into the details aside from internet issues.

Chapter 106

Despite Harry's attempts to not think about what he had heard from the future, he was distract the entire way to Hogsmead and while in Hogsmead. If anyone had noticed they didn't mention it or question Harry to the wizards' relief. Harry was sure and certain that he was not doing as well as he knew he could to not let his distraction show.

After some time past Harry realized that he wasn't quite as distracted as he had thought or feared. Every time Ginny wanted Harry's opinion on a dress, Harry had not been confused and gave his honest opinion on each dress.

Three hours later Ginny and Hermione had not made a selection on a dress. The two witches were frustrated and gave up looking.

"Hermione, when we get back to the castle we have to write home for help and hope that our dresses arrive in time for the Ball." Ginny said morosely.

"Gin, if you are okay with it, I could send a quick note for you to your mum." Hermione suggested.

"Would you, really? I mean I have no problem doing it myself…" Ginny said while trying to contain her growing excitement.

"Ginny if I wasn't okay with doing it, I wouldn't have offered to do so. I really do not mind." Hermione reassured her friend.

"You're the best Hermione." Ginny said grinning before giving the witch a hug.

"Yeah, yeah…go on, your date with Harry is waiting to begin." Hermione said in a gentle brush off of sorts, with a smile.

Hermione had no problem what-so-ever with writing a quick note to Mrs. Weasley on Ginny's behalf. It had more to do with the fact that Hermione knew that part of the day was in fact supposed to be Harry and Ginny's true first date and didn't want to take more time away from what her two friends could have.

Harry and Ginny returned Hermione's smile before turning and heading off to The Three Broomsticks. Hermione remained where she was and watched Harry and Ginny walk off for a moment before heading on to the post office. Hermione could have made her way to the post office right after her friends took off for the Three Broomsticks, but she didn't want anyone to think that she was following them or to think that she felt as though she were a third wheel and decided to slip away into the post office for no reason. Waiting a moment seemed to be a good idea and it worked.

As Hermione entered the post office it was clear that the selection available for them to decide from was not much of a selection as the post office was packed with fellow students in the same predicament as Hermione and Ginny. Every single witch and wizard Hermione saw in the post office were of the high-maintenance or a held themselves in a caliber of higher standing in the world.

By the time Hermione made it to the counter and hour and a half had past and more students from Hogwarts and some visiting students had piled inside.

"What can I help you with, Miss.?" The proprietor asked neutrally.

"How much for a small package of parchment, a self-inking quill and to rent two of the fastest owls you have left that can go long distance?" Hermione asked calmly as though not in a rush or hurry.

"What would be the destinations, Miss.?" The proprietor asked with a small smile as he did not feel rushed or ill-equipped to handle the business.

"One will be going to Ottery St. Catchpole and the other to Godalming, Surrey."

"The parchment…self-inking quill…two fast long distance owls…two destinations…that will be…five Galleons, four Sickles and sixteen Knuts." The proprietor replied but did not tell the witch that he was charging her less than he would have anyone else since she was patient and nice.

Hermione shrugged at the amount and handed over the cost in exact change with a smile and received a polite smile in return.

"Here is the pack of parchment and quill." The proprietor said as he handed the items to the witch. "If you wait over there…" the proprietor said pointing off to the left of the store where a table lined the wall, "I will meet you there with the two owls that will make it to your destinations as quickly as they can." The proprietor said with a gleam in his eyes.

"Thank you." Hermione said as she took her items before heading off to the table lined wall to wait for the proprietor to bring her the owls.

Hermione did not care how long it took the proprietor to find the owls as it would give him a moment away from the winey brats that would go off like a Muggle time bomb because they did not get their way or what they wanted and for some, a price they felt was reasonable. Hermione opened the pack of parchment and began writing her letters.

For Hermione it did not seem as though it had not taken the proprietor long to find the owls and bring them to her.

"Here are the two owls. Now do not think that this small barn owl isn't fast or can't go long distances as he can. The white owl will make it to Ottery St. Catchpole just fine.

"Thank you." Hermione said kindly before adding in a whisper, "You could have taken longer as I am not in that much of a hurry and it would serve them right."

The proprietor desperately wanted to say something but refrained for fear that the other customers would become even more irate.

Hermione returned to her letters after the proprietor left her to tend to the other customers.

After the letters written and sent off and nothing else to do, Hermione made her way back to the castle. And once stepping outside the post office, Hermione knew she had made the right choice to return to the castle as it was snowing and had become dramatically frigid since she had entered the post office. The witch quickly casted a warming charm on her person and made her way to the castle and made hast despite the warming charm.

Upon reaching The Three Broomsticks, Hermione decided to stop in for a quick butterbeer. Though The Three Broomsticks was rather packed, the witch did have to wait like she did in the post office to be tended to. Hermione was relieved that it was packed as it would help cover her from Harry and Ginny wherever they were inside. Hermione knew that Harry and Ginny would call her over and she did not feel like crashing their date.

Once the butterbeer was finished, Hermione knew it was time to go and left.

It did not seem like it took all that long to get back to the castle, as least it seemed that way to Hermione. The witch quickly climbed the front steps of the castle as the temp had, again, dropped but quite significantly to the point that the warming charm she had casted was not working all that well anymore.

As Hermione entered the castle she relished in the warmth that blasted and surrounded her. Wanting to get to Gryffindor House, Hermione took off at a quick paced walk to only collide with Violet

"I am so sorry Violet…" Hermione said truly apologetically, "Is something wrong?" Hermione asked worriedly.

"Not exactly." Violet replied vaguely. "You'll have to see and make your own judgment call." Violet added with an expression that Hermione could not decipher.

"See what?" Hermione asked with a hint of nervousness.

"Mercedes…" Violet said. "She's alright." Violet added quickly as the color started to drain from the witch standing in front of her. "Come on…you'll see. I don't want to say what is going on where others could hear."

As much as Hermione wanted to argue and demand that Violet just tell her the witch nodded instead and followed Violet.

xxxXXXxxx

VIOLET'S POV

While the students that could go to the Ball had left the few that were not old enough and or had not been asked either walked around in groups depressed or wallowed in their dorms or common rooms and a few just wondered around in a nearly vacant castle. Violet was part of the later and bumped into Luna.

"Luna." Violet said surprised to see the witch. "I though Neville asked you to the Yule Ball." Violet said confused.

"He did." Luna replied in her sing-song voice.

"Then why aren't you in Hogsmead?" Violet asked, still confused.

"I wrote dad and have my dress already."

"Oh." Violet said feeling a little daft for not realizing the obvious.

"You seem okay about not going to the dance…don't you want to go?" Luna said.

"Sure, I'd love to go but it's not the end of the world that I don't." Violet replied.

"Violet!" A second year from Mercedes House yelled.

"Merlin…don't tell me something…bad happened." Violet said loud enough for the girl that had yelled her name to hear.

"I don't know if it is bad or not…it's Mercedes and she's freaking out. It's quite scary to be honest. She's demanding that someone find you and bring you to her."

"Tell me or show me where she is." Violet said wanting to help her friend in any way.

Luna, though had not exactly been asked to come along, followed anyway.

Upon entering a girls bathroom on the second floor Violet stopped dead in her tracks. There were a few other students in the bathroom looking as though they did not know what to do and or what was going on.

"Mercedes?" Violet said unsure if she was actually seeing her friend.

"Vi." The person said relieved. "I don't know…can't change…just happened…"

"You're a Metamorphmagus." Luna said in awe, as though it was the most amazing and interesting thing in the world.

"A what?" All the girls in the bathroom said as they turned their attention to Luna.

"A Metamorphmagus. You can change your appearance at will."

"Luna…so Mercedes could look like whoever or whatever she wants?" Asked a young witch looking as though she was a first year.

"Sort of, but not quite. It's kind of hard to explain but I have a book on Metamorphmagus in my room. Shall I go get it?"

"Yes…yes…please…and hurry Luna…" Mercedes said sounding quite scared but not as scared as she actually was.

"Mercedes it's going to be alright. I mean it can't be that bad or horrible. I mean being able to change your appearance without having to drink polyjuice potion, which I hear tastes really gross." Violet said in a cheerful tone.

Mercedes scoffed but smiled at the same time.

"If I could just change back…"

"I know." Violet said cutting Mercedes off.

"Where is Luna with that book?" Mercedes muttered.

"Probably sidetracked by Neville." One of the girls in the bathroom muttered.

Violet and Mercedes turned and glared at the witch that had muttered a very likely possibility.

"Mercedes…I bet Hermione or Harry both of them could help." Violet said as it occurred to her.

"What good does that do me? They are in Hogsmead." Mercedes wined.

"They will return silly. Now, of course in order to get one of them here…to get Hermione here I will have to be waiting in the main part of the castle." Violet said hesitantly not wanting to leave her friend but yet at the same time wanting to help.

"Whatever is necessary to do to get help…I'm all for it." Mercedes said desperately.

Violet nodded and left the bathroom and sprinted towards the front doors of Hogwarts.

xxxXXXxxx

Luna headed to Ravenclaw House with a soft bounce in her step with her hair bouncing and flowing behind her and smiling. Luna was quite intrigued with having a Metamorphmagus while at school and in her House. Though no one had said anything to her, Luna knew that this was not something to go blabbing about. At recalling that Mercedes could not change back on her own, Luna quickened her pace to retrieve the book. Even if Mercedes was not able to change back on her own with the book, Luna knew that it would at least help Mercedes begin to obtain knowledge about Metamorphmagi.

Luna rounded a corner not far from her house when she bumped into Neville. A broad smile formed on Luna's face and her mind filled with nothing but Neville and walked with him wherever he had in mind.

xxxXXXxxx

As Violet reached the main entrance to Hogwarts she was faintly aware of someone entering the castle but could not slow down enough to avoid a collision with the person, but hoped that it wasn't a teacher. The witch was thankful that she only bounced off and did not land her bum.

"I am so sorry Violet…" Violet heard Hermione's voice say, "Is something wrong?" Hermione asked in a tone that sounded to Violet that the witch was worried.

"Not exactly." Violet replied vaguely. "You'll have to see and make your own judgment call." Violet added.

"See what?" Hermione asked with the obvious hint of nervousness.

"Mercedes…" Violet said. "She's alright." Violet added quickly as the color started to drain from the witch standing in front of her. "Come on…you'll see. I don't want to say what is going on where others could hear." Violet added before turning around and heading back up the staircase to the second floor.

Violet did not look back to see if Hermione was following her as she could hear the witches footsteps behind her.

Just outside the girls bathroom door Violet paused and turned around to face Hermione.

"Mercedes doesn't look like herself. Luna said that she's a…Metamorphmagus…what is a Metamorphmagus exactly. All Luna told us was that you could change your appearance at will. Mercedes can't change back." Violet quickly and quietly explained after a quick glance around to be sure that no one else was near enough to overhear.

Hermione's eyes became huge and then quickly walked into the bathroom.

"Mercedes." Hermione said soothingly, calmly.

"Hermione." Mercedes sighed in relief. "Help. I don't know how this happened. I…I want to…how do I change back?" Mercedes said nearing sobbing.

"Do not worry Mercedes. Everything will be alright I can guarantee it. I'll be right back. I am going to find Harry and explain everything to him. He'll know who can help and explain everything properly." Hermione said confidently. "Where is Luna?" Hermione asked as it occurred to her that the witch was not around.

"She said she had a book in her room on the subject and went to go get it, but we are positive that she became distracted by Neville." One of the other witches in the bathroom said.

"Okay…I will be back as soon as I can, Mercedes. There is nothing to worry about or fear alright." Hermione said in the same soothing tone as she had when she first entered the bathroom as well as assuring the younger witch that everything is alright.

Hermione turned and sprinted out of the bathroom and all the way back to Hogsmead without slipping, stumbling of falling on the snow covered ground.

Hermione skidded into The Three Broomsticks hoping that Harry and Ginny were still there. For a brief moment Hermione wondered if the two had left and gone to Madam Puddifoot's instead, but then shook the silly thought from her mind as she knew that Harry wasn't one for that type of atmosphere and continued to look through The Three Broomsticks.

After what felt like an eternity but was only minutes, Hermione heard Harry's voice call out her name. Hermione quickly headed it the direction she had heard the voice.

"Hermione…what's wrong?" Ginny asked once the witch had reached their table and the look on said witches face.

"It seems that Mercedes is a Metamorphmagus and she can't change back." Hermione answered with the short version of the situation and in a quiet voice.

"How will she be able to…change back?" Ginny asked concerned.

"Well…" Hermione said as she looked directly into Harry's eyes, "I was hoping…I have a feeling that you can help Mercedes with the situation, that you might know some way to help Mercedes change back." Hermione said.

"I know of someone that can help…I just haven't exactly met her yet…it's not a problem though as I and you know a few others that do know her personally."

"We need to quickly contact whoever needs to be contacted and get back to the castle. Mercedes is freaking out no matter what anyone says."

Harry nodded as he stood; Ginny did the same and the trio left the establishment.

Hermione and Ginny followed Harry out and in the opposite direction to Hogwarts. Though the girls were confused neither one said anything to Harry or questioned what he was doing that is until they reached the fence that separated the village and the shrieking shack. At this point the girls began to worry.

"Um…Harry…why do I get the feeling that you are leading us to the shrieking shack?" Ginny asked not being able to keep to quiet any longer to inquire about what Harry was doing.

"Because I am." Harry said straight to the point.

"Harry…" Hermione said in a worried and pleading tone.

"The rumors about the blasted shack being haunted were deliberately started and encouraged to continue. Deliberately starting the rumors and encouraging the rumors to continue was done to protect the village and to keep students out." Harry explained.

"But, Harry…if it was done deliberately and is still encouraged to continue to keep students out and to protect the village…we shouldn't…" Hermione said fearing the worst.

"The shack is not haunted and isn't really dangerous. The only danger is the possibility of the shack collapsing." Harry assured, or well hoped that he had.

"But the rumors are going around." Ginny muttered hesitantly.

"Only because none of the adults in the wizarding world put a stop to it as they didn't feel it wasn't necessary to do so. Not because of anything else." Harry explained further. "Trust me when I say that it is no longer necessary for the encouragement of the rumor. It was only necessary from 1971 to 1978. If I didn't know it was safe, I wouldn't have set out on this route." The wizard added.

"Route?" Ginny asked not following what Harry was getting at.

"Hold on…there's a passage into Hogwarts through the shrieking shack." Hermione suddenly blurted out.

"Exactly. Well sort of and it's a bit tricky. Not impossible, just a little tricky." Harry said.

"Harry, what do you mean 'sort of' and 'it's a bit tricky'?" Hermione asked not liking what her mind was projecting.

"It's more like a passage that will place us on the grounds of Hogwarts instead directly into the castle. The tricky part is…" Harry began before quickly saying, "managing-to-freeze-the-Whomping-willow-safely."

"Repeat that last part, but slowly." Ginny requested.

"Please do as it sounding like you said something having to do with the Whomping Will…" Hermione trailed off as her mind came to a possible conclusion. "The passage through the shrieking shack ends under the Whomping Willow?" Hermione questioned.

"Yes." Harry replied. "Tricky only because I am not sure where the nub is and I do not expect to find the right nub the first try." Harry explained. "Hopefully we do not get caught as we leave the Whomping Willow. As far as faculty at Hogwarts goes, Dumbledore is the only one that knows." Harry added.

"But it's the Whomping Willow." The girls both said.

"It is the quickest and shortest way to the castle and therefore getting Mercedes help sooner rather than later." Harry said _.

"You have a point and it would be good to get Mercedes help controlling the morphing." Hermione said in defeat as well as desperately wanting to help a friend.

"Let me guess…we're going to apparate to the Shrieking Shack?" Ginny inquired.

"Yes. You and Hermione will be side-a-long of course." Harry answered.

Hermione and Ginny felt that enough time was wasted and felt bad for questioning and somewhat arguing with Harry. Wanting to help Mercedes the two witches each grasped an arm of Harry's and managed to clear their minds of all thought so that all three made it through with all body parts intact.

Seconds after feeling as though they'd be squeezed into nothing they found themselves inside the shack in the middle of a dust cloud that had created the instant their feet hit the floor. As the dust cleared and the sneezing, hacking and coughing subsided they could see that the Shrieking Shack was in worse shape that it looked from the fence in the village.

Hermione and Ginny suddenly felt that going this route may not have been such a good idea after all. Both girls were sure that the Shack would crumble do a pile of rubble around them before they could get out, but did not voice their opinion since they were already there.

"You know, we should have used spells and charms to have protected us from Merlin knows what." Hermione commented.

"Meaning, protect ourselves from dust, dirt, spiders, other bugs and rodents." Harry said comically.

"That's not funny Harry." Ginny whined.

"Sorry Gin." Harry said truly apologetic.

"We don't know what exactly was mixed in with all that dust. I mean what was this used for? And what could have spilled all over the floor?" Hermione rambled ignoring Harry's comment.

"You have a point, Hermione. Don't worry so much as there is nothing to worry about." Harry said in a reassuring tone.

"But, Harry…" Hermione started to argue.

"Hermione, would it help if I told that I know what this place was used for?" Harry asked.

"It would help." Hermione said hoping to feel at ease.

"Well, I know what this place was used for." Harry said with a small smirk.

"Harry…" Hermione said with a warning under tone in her voice.

"This place was only used certain times during the month back in nineteen seventy one through nineteen seventy eight. Since then it has just been sitting here collecting dirt, dust, bugs and stray animals. There's nothing to worry about." Harry vaguely explained.

"What do you mean by 'certain times of the month'?" Ginny asked with a slightly fierce tone.

"Just before and during the full moon." Harry replied quickly. "Mercedes is waiting for us." Harry quickly added hoping to shift the focus.

Harry wanting to shift the focus off of the Shrieking Shack was only due to something more important. The something more important being Mercedes situation and Harry did not want the young witch and semi-newly found friend to wait much longer for help.

Hermione and Ginny nodded in agreement. The two witches hadn't quite caught the quick change of topic or shift of focus.

"Okay, just below where we stand is the passage entrance. It will be quite dark so we will need to light our wands and since we will technically be on Hogwarts grounds it won't get either of you in to trouble. I must warn both of you that you might have to stoop and or crawl part of the way as the passage is rather small." Harry explained.

After waiting a few second to see if the witches were going to question or argue anything, Harry turned and began to walk away from the witches.

Hermione and Ginny groaned in protest but followed Harry regardless.

Once reaching the start of the passage all three lit the tip of their wands and one by one entered the passage.

"You know there is no need to follow so closely behind me." Harry said once they were more than half way through the passage. "It's not much longer and we will reach the end of the passage. I will have to stop so that I can freeze the Whomping Willow." Harry explained.

"Okay." Hermione and Ginny said softly.

The girls were reluctant to have much of a distance between them and Harry. But, the girls didn't want to end up crashing into Harry and risking the three of them getting beaten to a pulp by a tree. The later had more pull so the girls put just enough distance between them and Harry to prevent a collision of any sort. Hermione and Ginny clung to each other as best as they could with the cramped space.

Not much longer and the girls barley caught that Harry had stopped walking and managed to not collide into him.

"I'll let both of you know when it's safe to follow." Harry explained in a tone of authority and no argument.

Hermione and Ginny glanced at each other for a moment and as they looked back towards where they last knew Harry to be to argue he wasn't there. Though the girls wanted to call out for Harry they refrained from doing so. The girls were not sure what exactly 'freezing the Whomping Willow' would entail beyond pressing a nub on the tree trunk or how difficult it could be was the only thing keeping them silent.

It wasn't long and the girls could hear Harry calling to them letting them know they could come up out of the passage. Hermione and Ginny did not hesitate and immediately climbed out into the fresh, cool, crisp air and took a few big breaths of the refreshing air.

"We should hurry. The sooner we get to the castle the sooner I can get help for Mercedes. I have no doubt that she would very much appreciate being able to change her appearance back." Harry said breaking the silence that had risen.

Hermione and Ginny nodded in agreement and started to follow Harry but stopped.

"I am sure that Mercedes would appreciate both of your company in the meantime. I'll be there as soon as I can." Harry said.

"Where are you going?" Ginny inquired.

"How will you find where we are?" Hermione asked.

"I am going to get Mercedes help with the recent discovery of an ability she wasn't aware of having. And, Hermione, finding where you are won't be an issue. We're family, blood family and a familial bond that not too long ago was strengthened. If that doesn't work I can easily find another way. Don't worry." Harry said in response.

Hermione and Ginny glanced at each other both not sure if Harry would find them but by the time they looked back Harry had left and was out of hearing range. The girls could have called out to Harry but that would risk alerting other's and would result in questions.

"Dobby." Hermione and Ginny both muttered as they looked back at each other and as Harry headed off in the direction of the Headmaster's office.

Hermione led the way to the girls' bathroom on the second floor running from the top of the staircase to the bathroom.

"Mercedes I found Harry and Ginny. Ginny is with me and Harry is in the process of achieving clearance for the person that can help be on grounds." Hermione said softly as she and Ginny entered the bathroom.

Mercedes nodded in understanding and was glad that Hermione and Ginny were there with her. Though she had support from the small had full of witches from her house and a few from Hufflepuff, the support Mercedes felt from Hermione and Ginny who she counted as friends meant everything Mercedes.

There was a small part of Mercedes that also wanted the company of Draco and his family, her family but she did not want them to see her as she was. Not that she didn't want to share this with the Malfoy's or the family that raised her because the witch did want to share this with them. She just wanted to know more about this ability even though it currently felt like a curse.

xxxXXXxxx

Though Harry was headed in the direction of the Headmasters' office, Harry's destination was elsewhere. Harry's actual destination was Snape's office not that he realized this fact. By the time the young wizard reached the Slytherin Head of Houses' office Harry realized that he'd had no intention of going to Dumbledore with the development of Mercedes being a Metamorphmagus.

As the realization hit Harry he stopped just short of knocking on the door. The only things that flooded Harry's mind was the manipulation, scheming, lying, plotting and withholding that Dumbledore had done and was planning to do. With all of this going through Harry's mind, what Harry was sure he knew the elder wizard was capable of doing and things that were different then the first time around created too many unknowns and uncertainties. The unlimited unknowns and uncertainties were great to take the chance and risk with going to Dumbledore. Harry refused and was determined to not let Mercedes be used as a pawn as so many others had and will before the threat of Voldemort was no longer an issue or possibility ever again.

Harry had just, literally just, cleared his mind of everything that had been on his mind and what he had been thinking when the door to the Head of Slytherin House opened.

"Are just going to stand there and annoy the hell out of me? Or are you going to come in and actually speak?" Snape drawled sounding as close to his usual growl as he could muster. It was just enough to prevent any suspicion of where Snape's loyalties were to those that still supported the psychopath, lying half-blood, twisted wizard.

"Sorry, sir, I was distracted by a thought and had to sort it out." Harry said as he entered the office and closed the door behind him.

"Have a seat." Snape said in biting tone as he pointed to a chair for the wizard to occupy.

Harry did not take offense to how Snape spoke as the young wizard knew it was a safety mechanism and sat in the chair indicated by Snape. Nothing had been spoken for a little while longer while Snape waved his arm and wand towards the door.

Harry didn't bother with asking what Snape was doing as the younger wizard knew that it was warding the door and office from prying ears and to set alerts for anyone on the other side of the door.

"Now, what could bring a young Gryffindor to my office instead of your Head of Houses' office? Not to mention the shopping trip for the upcoming…Yule Ball?"

"It's really important that...Tonks get here to the school immediately." Harry said straight to the point.

"And why is it important that Tonks get here to the school immediately?" Snape asked in a bored tone.

"Tonks is a Metamorphmagus and it is imperative that she get her to help another. A student just found out that she is a Metamorphmagus and has no knowledge of anything relating to Metamorphmagi." Harry explained.

"Why come to me with this and not the Headmaster?" Snape said annoyed.

"Because, sir, it has to do with Mercedes Johnson. Yes the Mercedes Johnson that we all recently learned is the long lost family member of the Malfoy's." Harry answered beginning to feel annoyed himself.

"Again, why come to me with this…" Snape began feeling even more annoyed than a moment ago.

"You know how Professor Dumbledore is and how he operates therefore I thought that you would be the best adult wizard I could go to with this. Mercedes has been through enough in her lifetime and I will not subject her to being manipulated or used as a pawn. Too many witches and wizards have been manipulated and used as a pawn in others grand plans." Harry rattled feeling quite agitated for being questioned about how he was going about it.

"What could you possibly know of…" Snape began irritatedly.

"One day, sir, you will know exactly what I know and what I have been through but now is not the time for that." Harry said quickly cutting off what Snape was saying. "I do not mean any disrespect here. It is really important that Tonks gets here to help Mercedes. Professor, Mercedes…she's unable to change her appearance back to what she knows is normal for her appearance. No, I have not seen Mercedes as I figured that it would be better to start the process of getting help here for Mercedes than to assess how she appears at present time." Harry added.

"Sir, I think we can agree that this development with Mercedes is to be kept from Professor Dumbledore for reasons neither of us have to state." Harry continued.

"Agreed." Snape said. "If you have not seen Miss. Johnson…"

"Hermione told me." Harry answered the question he knew Snape was going to ask. "Luna Lovegood seems to own a book on Metamorphmagi and went to retrieve it but seems to have become distracted and that is why Hermione went looking for me."

"Mr. Potter if there is indeed a book on the subject it should suffice." Snape said bordering growling.

Harry looked at Snape as though Snape had turned into a witch and then chuckled sarcastically.

"I apologize sir, but hearing you say that a book should suffice is, well quite ridiculous and silly really. You of all people know that a book can only assist one so far in research and learning. I mean we are talking about a witch that is a second year and has no clue what being a Metamorphmagus, is unable to change back and I am sure freaking out." Harry said growled. "Do you really think that Mercedes will be able to calm down enough to focus on reading a text on anything and have it retain? Mercedes needs Tonks to assist with changing back. Mercedes did not intentionally change her appearance, she didn't even know she'd done so until she looked in a mirror. Once Tonks has been able to talk Mercedes through changing back the two of them can correspond about the subject and make arrangements for over the summer to further delve into Metamorphmagi."

"You have a point." Snape conceded. "I will see what I can do."

"Thank you sir. I know Mercedes will appreciate your help and I can assure you that it is understood what it will entail for you to get in touch with Tonks and to keep it quiet." Harry said sincerely.

"Where is Miss. Johnson?" Snape asked ignoring Harry's thanks and following comment.

"Mercedes is hiding out in a girl's bathroom on the second floor. Hermione and Ginny are with her." Harry replied. "Again thank you, sir, for your help." Harry added.

Snape softly growled and waved the 'thank you' away as well as dismissed the young wizard in one motion.

Harry received the hint loud and clear that he was being dismissed and left right away. Once Harry was out of the dungeons he called for Dobby and after a short conversation the elf took Harry to the second floor. Dobby deposited Harry in the hallway just outside of the girls' bathroom and disappeared.

Harry knocked on the door and waited as patiently as he could. Not much time past between Harry knocking on the door and the door opening.

"Harry." Ginny said relieved as she stepped out in the hall.

"Ginny…" Harry began but was unable to say more as the door to the girl's bathroom opened.

"I thought I heard your voices." Hermione said relieved that Harry had found them.

"Harry." Mercedes said anxiously.

"Mercedes." Harry couldn't say much more at the moment at seeing Mercedes for the first time.

"Please don't tell me that whoever it is that can help me won't help me." Mercedes said worriedly.

"She hasn't yet been contacted but will be contacted and soon. I know that she will help you." Harry said reassuringly.

"I really hope that you are right about that Harry. And I won't even care if it's only because she'll get a benefit out of it."

"Mercedes it won't matter if she gets a benefit out of it or not she'll help you regardless. Before much more is said I'd rather we are somewhere more private." Harry said feeling uncomfortable discussing this in such a public location.

"The only options are to find an unused classroom, ward the hell out of it or go to the Room of Requirement since Harry cannot enter the girl's bathroom." Hermione muttered.

"But that would require me to leave the bathroom." Mercedes whined. "There has to be something else." Mercedes added hopefully.

"Mercedes going to a different location won't necessarily require you to leave the bathroom." Harry said in a calming tone.

"What do you mean?" Mercedes growled anxiously.

"I can call Dobby to transport you to a different location. It will be most effective as it will be quick and secure. I could also disillusion you so that only your friends can see so you can leave the bathroom. By disillusioning you, you could roam around if you wanted to…"

"Call Dobby. I do not want to spend the day disillusioned. Besides, if I am disillusioned and roaming the grounds how will this witch be able to help me change back?"

"Before I call Dobby I think that the Room of Requirement should be set up for us first." Harry said.

"We're on it." Hermione and Ginny said as they slipped out of the bathroom.

"I will explain more once we are in the Room of Requirement. You being a Metamorphmagus has to be kept from public knowledge. In order to pull this off without alerting anyone that this witch will be on grounds to help a young witch just finding out she has the ability…we need a disguise for her." Harry said quietly after Hermione and Ginny took off.

"An Aunt, female cousin, Grandmother…whatever." Mercedes said as her eyes began to tear up.

"Mercedes it is going to be alright. I will find the person that is helping with contacting the witch that can help before the letter is sent out." Harry said before starting to head back to Snape's office but paused as something occurred to Harry. "Mercedes, is there anyone else you want around or to be notified?" Harry asked having a feeling he already knew the answer to the question he'd asked.

"Yes, but…they'll want to see me and I don't want them to see me like this. I mean if I'd only looked…well, not like this…I don't know enough about this ability…I…" Mercedes mumbled.

"Mercedes they will not have a problem with what has happened. They'll understand that you had no idea of having this ability…they won't give you a hard time about it. I have a feeling that you will inform them anyways, so why not inform them of what you know and how you feel and request that they respect your wishes and try to see the situation from your point of view." Harry suggested. "Informing them of what has happened can help. This is going to sound really fucked up, pardon my language, but if they truly do care and love you they will respect your wishes and not try to see you and instead will send letter of encouragement and support." Harry reasoned.

"I really feel stupid right now." Mercedes said as what Harry had said made perfect sense.

"You're not stupid. You're going through something serious and life changing right now, and I am not just refereeing to the ability." Harry said honestly, sincerely and yet quite firmly, in a reassuring way.

"I can't think at all." Mercedes argued.

"And with what you are going through…everything you are going through right now…I'd be impressed if you were able to think." Harry said with a smile.

"You really are a good friend Harry. Thank you."

"Thanks not necessary or required but appreciated." Harry said before taking off to talk to Snape once again.

Harry was nearly to the staircase when he thought he saw something out of the corner of his eye. Thinking that maybe Snape had gone looking for him in regard to how to get Tonks on grounds without alerting the Headmaster as to why the Metamorphmagus was on grounds, Harry glanced around. At seeing nothing and no one the wizard called for Dobby, Kreacher and Sparky.

Within seconds all three elves stood before Harry waiting anxiously for instructions. Harry quickly and briefly explained the situation to the elves and requested that the elves alert the witches in the bathroom and to keep an eye on the area. The elves gave Harry a respectful and courtesy low bow before disappearing to do what the wizard requested leaving Harry standing at the top of the staircase and enabling the wizard to continue on to Snape's office without much worry on his shoulders.

Harry quickly descended the staircase but not at a sprint. In his haste he was unaware of a tall figure cloaked in all black and collided with the figure.

"Sorry, sir." Harry said partly relieved since he did not fall on his behind and nervously due to who exactly he had collided with.

"Mr. Potter, do watch where you are going." Snape said snarky but the level in his tone did not match his eyes. "What is your hurry?" Snape snapped.

"Sorry, sir. I should indeed watch where I am going." Harry replied in a slight condescending tone. "As for my…hurry," Harry said but then paused briefly before saying, "it has to do with what we discussed earlier." Harry added quietly.

"Very well." Snape said in a not so convincing exasperated tone. "Follow me." Snape said as he turned around and walked off down the hall in the hopes of finding an unused classroom.

Harry put effort in trying to look as though he was in trouble and about to face punishment handed out by Snape. It would not do any good if it didn't look as though that was the case as so much depended on Snape's cover within the Dark forces.

Harry's thinking and effort was spot on as the pair rounded a corner there was a group of Slytherins standing around talking. Harry was preparing for whatever the group of Slytherins could throw at him and then he spotted Dudley and Draco among them. Harry began to worry that one of them would say or do something to cause one or both of them to be in serious danger. Harry's worry increased dramatically at the look he saw on Draco's face.

Dread began to engulf Draco as he saw his Head of House and Harry round the corner. It wouldn't have been much of anything if it had only been himself and Dudley, but no they were with a small group from their house. Draco was quite worried that some of the Slytherins with him were going to start something to make the situation worse for Harry and not being able to prevent himself from defending Harry. The other thought was that it had to do with his father and or Mercedes. Draco was about to inquire about both but was unable to utter a word.

Dudley caught on quickly and was the first and only one to utter a thing.

"What did you do now, Potter? Can't you stay out of trouble for one second?" Dudley snarled in an impressive way.

Harry, Snape and Draco were all impressed with how Dudley snarled the questions. Though impressed not one of them was surprised at how well Dudley had pulled off the snarl when taking in the fact that Dudley had once had to perfect such treatment towards Harry while growing up.

"Piss off Evans." Harry retorted and cringed inside at the last name.

Harry wasn't the only one to cringe inside at the last name or how it was said.

"Enough." Snape managed to growl out.

Nothing more was said as Harry and Snape past. Snape was not comfortable with slipping into just any unused room after that encounter and decided that it would best to just go on to the dungeons to his Head of House office.

Harry was not surprised to that they did not stop until they reached the Slytherin Head of House office as it was the best warded room that was not the Headmaster's office. Harry wasted no time in entering the office once the door was open.

"I do hope that you were on your way to see me again has to do with how Miss. Tonks will be able to be on grounds without sparking questions from the Headmaster." Snape said gruffly.

Harry pause before replying as he was sure that his first retort would have resulted in detention or worse.

"Mercedes and I talked about that and she'll be fine with using a cover of a relative. Though I know I do not have to say it…it has to be said, not a Malfoy relative since that bit is not public knowledge." Harry said quickly but clearly. "No I did not think to get a name from Mercedes." Harry said quite frustrated. "I suppose that it won't matter really what name is used as I can let Mercedes know so she can inform her immediate family…now I fully understand the confusing thing with this." Harry said the last part more to himself than anyone else.

"Well, from the names I know associated with the Johnson family…the name Marcella should work just fine." Snape said with finality.

"A cousin would be best I think." Harry added.

"Agreed and yes I was in search of you for the exact thing we have just figured out."

"I do not mean to pry, but how is…"

"About the same. No improvement but a little worse." Snape said trying to sound and appear detached.

Harry did not know what to say so he gave a courteous nod and left on his own accord. This time when Harry reached ground level he did sprint through the castle and on up to the seventh floor. Once standing in the hall in front of the wall that revealed the doors to enter Harry paced and wondered what Hermione and Ginny had set the room to. Harry was just a bout to call for one of the house elves when Sparky appeared out of nowhere startling the wizard.

"Sorry, sir. Sparky chose to come out and help Master gain entrance." The elf said sheepishly with a smile.

"It's alright Sparky. I should have called for you or one of the other two to assist me or something." Harry said with a soft chuckle.

Sparky grinned and grasped one of Harry's hands before invoking the elf magic that allowed them to, in their way, apparate in buildings that were warded to prevent such things or not.

"Mercedes...my…contact and I have decided that it will be a cousin of yours by the name of Marcella will be who is on grounds at least that will be according to the school records of visitors and the Ministry." Harry said the instant he saw Mercedes.

"Harry, sorry to interrupt but I need a word with you." Ginny said urgently.

"It's alright, Harry. It's not like I'm going anywhere anytime soon." Mercedes said sounding a little depressed.

Harry nodded and followed Ginny out of the Room of Requirement even though he was reluctant to do so.

"It is a good thing that you sent Dobby, Kreacher and Sparky to us. A few of the other students that were in here took off and told other students that Mercedes had messed up a spell, a charm or thought she was better than anyone here and tried her hand at Polyjuice Potion and messed it up. Those particular students are convinced that it was one of the three and due to being embarrassed is accepting the Metamorphmagus possibility instead of admitting to what she did wrong." Ginny explained quietly once out in the hall.

"So a bunch of students came running to see what had happened?" Harry asked as anger began to fill him.

"Yes. Mostly Slytherins and it wasn't pretty. The female Slytherins barged right in to the bathroom, but didn't see anything since Mercedes spends most of the time in one of the stalls with the door shut. The boys hung out in the hall saying a lot of crap. Though Mercedes was and is hurt by what has been said by classmates she has handled it quite well."

"Why is it so hard for others to believe that Mercedes is indeed a Metamorphmagus?" Harry asked quietly.

"Usually if one is a Metamorphmagus the signs of magic show quite early on and supposedly there is quite a magical surge alerting the Ministry that there is a new Metamorphmagus and it would have been in the paper informing the wizarding community of it. The Ministry wouldn't know if there was a heard of Metamorphmagus' if they were bitten on the butt by them. The magical surge is integrated in the detection of new young witches and wizards.

Of course there are those that feel that no one is better than they are or on equal footing unless in league with an idiot hell bent on ridding the world of those he or she believes to be unworthy."

"That's…that's…Neville's magic did not show signs until he was older than the average…"

"Yeah and everyone thought that Neville was going to be a Squib. It was a shock to his family that he actually possessed any amount of magic. And that didn't help Neville with his magical ability. Not many take into consideration how one is raised or what another has been through regardless of age."

"As pissed as I am about this…it's actually a good thing that no one believes Mercedes is a Metamorphmagus. For now all I am going to say is that it is best this development is kept quiet and not public knowledge."

"I know you will let the rest of us know why you want this development to be kept quiet so I will not ask. Hermione and I were up here finishing up with the room when Kreacher and Sparky retrieved us. Harry do not be mad or upset at Kreacher and Sparky over this. Dobby stayed with Mercedes and kept the idiotic and cruel individuals from entering the bathroom but the things they were saying still got through, Sparky and Kreacher felt they didn't have a choice but to get us and go without a word. Hermione and I have already told them that they did good and not a single thing wrong. Once getting Mercedes calmed down Dobby held onto Mercedes, Kreacher…brace yourself…held onto Hermione and Sparky held on to me and brought us here." Ginny explained.

"I am not mad or upset at them for doing what they felt was necessary to get the three of you safe especially Mercedes. Not that I don't think she can handle her own in fact I am sure she could do some serious damage if given the chance. The same goes for you and Hermione…"

"Harry I know." Ginny said borderline coyly with a coy expression on her face.

"Gin…please don't tempt me." Harry said in a soft raspy tone.

"You're right…sorry…Mercedes…"

"Gin…I have to go back in the Room of Requirement…Mercedes needs to relax and calm down at least somewhat and I have to bring her up to speed on something…" Harry paused as an idea came to mind. "Ginny, I need your help with something and I am hoping that you will be up to helping me encourage Mercedes to inform her family…adoptive and blood…of what has happened today. I bought it up to her earlier and she seemed to agree but after what happened recently…"

"Harry are you saying that no one in her family knows of anything that happened to Mercedes today?"

"Yes. Ginny do not be hard on Mercedes for it as she has her reasons. I do and I don't understand the reasons but…she intends on telling them about discovering that she is a Metamorphmagus in time just not right now, not when she can't change back, not when she knows absolutely nothing about Metamorphmagi. I suggested that she write them letters explaining what happened to day including how she feels and to request they respect her wishes and not try to contact her. With her parents, the Johnsons, will also include the witch that can help Mercedes and how it is going to appear to the majority of the Wizarding Community is that a Cousin by the name of Marcella will be showing up for a surprise visit."

"No worries Harry, Mercedes will have those letters finished and sent before dinner." Ginny said smiling.

"I am sure that Hermione will help as well. As much as I would like to talk to her about it there really isn't the time. Besides, she's quite smart and will catch on enough to help and I will explain it to her later."

Harry and Ginny re-entered the Room of Requirement but didn't quite the opportunity to grab a seat and get comfortable.

"How long until she gets here?" Mercedes asked a bit impatiently.

"As soon as she can. The message is being composed right now and will be sent once it is complete. I know that what I am about to say is easier said than done…try to relax and calm down." Harry said soothingly.

"You're right, it is easier said than done." Mercedes all but barked.

"Look, I can't imagine what or how you feel right now and I won't act like I do…I do however know that it helps to relax and be calm or to be as relaxed and as calm as possible. I know what you are thinking because I've thought the same thing. I want to help but I do not know what will help…"

"Tell me about this witch that is a Metamorphmagus. What is her name? What kind of person is she? How trustworthy is she? Can she keep this to herself?" Mercedes asked each question right after the next making it difficult to figure out what she was asking.

"I can do that, but I will need a moment to collect my thoughts and memories." Harry said relieved that there was something he could do to help Mercedes aside from what he'd already done.

Harry only needed a few minutes to get his thoughts and memories of Tonks organized and once he was sitting comfortably, Harry began talking about Tonks. As Harry talked about Tonks the wizard wasn't sure if it was helping in the way he had originally intended but it at least appeared that talking about Tonks was capturing all of Mercedes thoughts, attention and focus. If that at least could carry the witch over it would be a success.

"She sounds really nice, Harry. I completely understand why she insists or demands to be addressed as Tonks. So she'll be in disguise as my cousin Marcella?"

"Yes. A cousin works better than say an aunt or grandmother as there will be some record somewhere of them. Oddly enough they don't keep record of cousins at least not in this situation so it will work. It is obvious that you haven't been able to write any letters to your family and it is obvious why that is so…"

"Mercedes not only will it be a good thing to let your immediate family know and your recently found blood family know about the Metamorphmagi but also to let your immediate family be aware of how you are to be receiving the help you need and why it is being kept…well, quiet." Ginny said urgently.

"Ginny's right, Mercedes. And as far as why things being kept quiet, well I am sure that Harry will enlighten us on that part." Hermione added.

Harry couldn't help but chuckle.

Once collecting himself, Harry explained why he didn't want Mercedes being a Metamorphmagus to be public knowledge and why he wanted to keep it quiet. Harry also explained that keeping it quiet and out of the public eye was temporary and that eventually it won't matter. Harry did not mind the questions and answered them as detailed as he could without taking a lot of time.

"Look, it doesn't make it right what Dumbledore has done and more than likely in the processing of doing but he meant and means well. He's going about it in the wrong way but…"

"Harry, Dumbledore knows that you've gone back in time so surely he realizes that you know more than anyone would like…all the same." Hermione said.

"I suppose but I cannot take that chance. If it was my life than okay maybe, but it is not my life we're talking about." Harry said to Hermione before turning to Mercedes and saying, "And I cannot in good conscious let you take the chance of creatively being used for the greater good. It is not necessary since I already, sort of, know what to do." Harry informed Mercedes. "So much is different this time. Things are different, events happening different, having knowledge this time that I didn't have the first time…that is why 'sort of' know what to do. I'm not worried about it. Do not ask me how I know, but I know I will figure it out when the time comes." Harry quickly explained before he was ambushed with questions.

"As long as I am able to change back and get some kind of control on this ability I will keep whatever you want me to keep a secret for as long as you feel necessary." Mercedes muttered.

"Hey, Harry…this contact of yours, who is it?" Hermione asked curiously.

"Snape." Harry said after a brief pause. "Speaking of…Mercedes the letters. I do not mean to be pushy or anything of the sort…it's just the sooner they know they better especially about 'cousin Marcella'."

"You're right again, Harry." Mercedes said with a faint smile that could only be seen in her eyes.

Harry relieved that Mercedes was more like the witch he became friends with and it was all the proof the he needed to know that a success was achieved, even if not the original intended one.

"Will I ever get used to this room?" Mercedes wondered aloud as a stack of parchment, quill and ink well that she had been thinking of and needed appeared not far from where she sat.

"At most it won't be quite as surprising to find exactly what you are thinking or in need of to appear in front of near you. At least that is how it is for me." Harry answered though he knew that Mercedes hadn't exactly asked anyone anything.

Mercedes shrugged her shoulders and took the items. Just as she began to write the letters Dobby 'popped' into the room.

"Dobby brings letters for missy Sadies." The elf said smiling happily.

"Who are the letters from, Dobby?" Harry quickly, but politely asked before Mercedes took possession of them.

"Dobby's old Mistress and young Master, sir." The elf replied with an air of pride.

Mercedes slowly reached out to accept the letters. Though she was curious, Mercedes was also nervous and not sure if now was the time to read the correspondence from the senders. The next moment Mercedes mentally kicked herself. Draco was and is a friend first and foremost and knowing that there was a blood tie there didn't change anything or at least shouldn't change anything between them. As for Draco's mother, Mercedes realized that it shouldn't really matter who the woman is on a genetic level and for now is just the mother of one her friends.

Mercedes shook her head clear and set aside the quill and parchment she had in her lap so she could read the letters. She stared at the two letters debating on which one to read to first for a little while before deciding on reading the one from Draco first.

Mercedes,

I know how much of a shock it is to find out that we are related by blood, but it also makes sense. At least it makes sense to me any way. This is going to sound odd coming from a bloke and I will deny it to my grave…for a while now I have felt a pull towards you in a familial way as well as protective of you. This has confused me until finding out that on a genetic level you are my sister. I do hope that you are not bothered by my saying 'sister'. I agree that it is strange to put a familial title in regard to me and you. To be honest I would for the time being like to focus on the budding friendship that we have and maybe one day in the future see if the brother-sister relationship will work. I do not expect our relationship to be more than friends…more than really good friends and or best friends. I do have to admit that it would be nice to have a sibling but, being friends is perfectly fine.

I do not mean to be pressuring you in any way I just wanted you to know that I am still and always will be your friend. Also, I want you to know that I am here for you no matter what it is you need. If you want a friend, just want company or someone to talk to that will listen. If you need comfort, to vent, to whatever I am here for you.

As a friend and yes that small part within that is screaming 'big brother' I am worried about you and a little concerned. It is not that I think or feel that you can't handle things…it's just what friends and family do, we worry about each other and become concerned from time to time due to caring about each other.

I will do my best to not bombard you with letters and give you all the time you need to sort through all of it. Merlin knows that I am not doing so well with sorting it out. To be honest though I really haven't given much thought to what we found out as I have been more focused on my friend, you know…you.

Your,

Friend always,

Draco Malfoy

Now seems like a good time to send this to you as I just saw Harry with Professor Snape. I am not sure if Harry was in trouble or not but I do not think that is the case. The only thing that comes to mind is you, my friend. All that goes through my mind is that you are hurt in some way or another. Not being able to get away from other Slytherins makes it difficult to talk to search out and ask Harry. Please let me know if you are alright or not and please be honest. All I ask of you is to always be honest with me and if you are not sure if you should tell me something just keep it to yourself until you feel that you can tell me and just let me know that you are not ready to say what is on your mind. Also, never forget that I am your friend.

Draco

Mercedes shook her head slightly with a smile and glassy eyes while clutching the letter in her hands. Mercedes knew deep down that she had overreacted and still continued to overreact even after the talk with Narcissa previously. As much as Mercedes wanted to write back she wanted read the other letter first.

Mercedes Johnson,

I cannot imagine what you are going through. I could say that I could but that would not be true or correct. I do hope that when we spoke, when I explained why I gave you up for adoption helped you find answers and some understanding. Also, I hope that you have no question that it was not your fault or that I didn't want my baby girl.

I have to be honest with you that knowing you are the precious little girl I gave up warms my heart. I will do my best to refrain from previous mentions of blood relation in the future. Right now and for as long as you need, you are a good friend of my son Draco. I would really like to get to know all of my son's friends but primarily you as I have a good idea about the rest of the group.

My main reason for this letter is to reaffirm that I and my family have no expectations or requirements of you. If there is anything you or your family need feel free to ask and any details can be worked out at that time. As a mother I do worry and I can't help but worry about you in that capacity. I know what I said a moment ago…I apologize, it is really difficult for me to be patient and to give you the time you need. I find that I am constantly reminding myself that this is about you and what you are going through, what you are feeling and not me…

I think it is time that I end this letter for now.

I hope you are well,

Narcissa Malfoy

Mercedes felt that Narcissa's letter was really sweet and though the witch was having difficulties with a certain area, the letter still meant a lot to Mercedes. Both letters also had Mercedes feeling bad for not talking to Narcissa, Draco and well everyone else she had become friends with since attending Hogwarts. Mercedes knew that none of them would give her a bad time about overreacting, freaking out and needing time alone to sort it out on her own helped prevent the witch from really giving herself a hard time.

Mercedes cleared her head of what was currently going through her mind so she could think of what to say in the letters and taking in to account the content of the two she had just received.

So much was going through her mind in regard to Narcissa and Draco that Mercedes decided to start with the one to her parents.

Mum and dad,

I am alright…well that is I am not injured. Do either of you know anything about Metamorphmagi? It seems that I am a Metamorphmagus. It just happened out of nowhere. I hope that once I know more about this ability I will be able to figure out how it happened exactly. I think it might have to do with finding out that one of my friends on a genetic level is actually my brother, well maybe more the way it came out. Any way I am stuck in a morphing state and can't change back.

I do understand that both of you want to come straight to Hogwarts to check on me and be there for me, but I have to ask both of you to stay where you are and to not come see me. I know this is going to sound ridiculous, but I don't want either of you or sissy to see me in my current state. I am not exactly alone. A small handful of my friends are with me and doing what they can to comfort me.

I didn't know that anything was different when I came out of one of the stalls in the girls' bathroom. I really freaked out when I looked up into the mirror. There were a few other students in the bathroom and a few more had walked in just as I started to freak out. Violet the dear heart was around, I'm not sure if she was already in the bathroom or not. Violet went in search for Hermione and once finding Hermione brought her to the bathroom. Hermione then, after calming me down, went and brought Harry back to the castle. Harry knows someone that can help me.

I am nervous, excited and anxious to meet the witch that can help me change back. She's a Metamorphmagus. I am writing all this to you because there are reasons that my being a Metamorphmagus has to be kept quiet and out of the public records for now. The witches name is Nymphadora Tonks but every one addresses her as Tonks per her request. In order to get her here to Hogwarts to help me she has to be in disguise as to not cause inquiries as to why she is here. In time I will, with Harry's help, explain all this in more detail. Any, so you both know according to the visiting records at Hogwarts and the Ministry in London my cousin Marcella will be visiting me.

Please understand that I just don't want anyone seeing me right now. It is hard enough that quite a group of fellow students have seen me and a small handful of friends as well.

All my love,

Mercedes Johnson

Oh, and Draco's mum sent me a letter assuring me that there are no expectation or requirements aside from honesty as well as to offer to help out with if there is anything I or the two of you need to feel free to ask. She also said that any details can be worked out at that time.

Mercedes looked over the letter quickly before folding it and addressing it to her parents. A few minutes later Mercedes began working a letter to Draco.

Draco,

I appreciate what you said in your letter and I will never forget that we are friends…practically best friends already and always will be friends and in time best friends. I honestly do not know what happened to me and I apologize for being distant…okay so I've been avoiding everyone. I am not sure why I am having so much trouble with what was discovered. I am quite certain that I will back to my normal self soon.

I'm as good as one can expect. Do you know anything about Metamorphmagi? I am sure that I do not need say much more on the subject. When you saw Harry earlier with Professor Snape it was because Professor Snape is helping Harry get someone that can help me change me appearance back to how I should look and stuck how I look now. Right now I am not seeing this as an ability and instead a curse. I am sure though that I will feel differently about it once I know more and can control it in any way possible.

Though I do not want anyone to see how I look right now…it was unavoidable for the most part. I am in the Room of Requirement with Harry, Hermione and Ginny if you want to hang out while we wait for 'my cousin Marcella' to arrive and talk me through changing back. I believe that if you call Dobby he will bring you straight in the room. In fact I will let Dobby know that it will be alright if he brings you back here…of course that is if you want to hang out.

Oh hell! I feel really bad right now. I can't believe that I let it slip my mind. How is your dad doing? Has there been any improvement? I hope you can find a way to forgive me for being so focused on me and what I am going through. We're both going through a few things and one of them together. You know I think that I am going to insist that Dobby bring you to the Room of Requirement.

Your friend now and always,

Mercedes Johnson

Mercedes had a little difficulty writing the letter to Draco due to laughing at some of the thoughts that had been going through her mind and of course trying to imagine what Draco's expressions and reaction would be to what she was writing at least up until Mercedes started writing about Draco's father. This time though, Mercedes did not need to look over the letter before folding it and addressing it.

Mercedes was about to begin her letter to Narcissa when she spotted Sparky with more of a burden than a grown adult could handle. Before she could say anything Harry, Hermione and Ginny had quickly reached the elf and lightened the load of food he had brought.

"Sparky, will do me a huge favor and take this letter to the Owlery? It's to my parents." Mercedes asked and explained after the thought came to mind.

"Yes miss, Sparky can." The elf said happily as he accepted the letter.

"Thank you." Mercedes managed to get out before the elf disappeared but she did not begin her letter to Narcissa and instead decided to try to eat something.

While Mercedes ate she did not let herself think about what she was going to say in her letter to Narcissa. Mercedes was enjoying the relatively stress-free feeling and did not want to do anything that could potentially change her mood. Deep down she knew that there would not have been an issue if she had thought about what she would say in the letter but felt it was better to not take the chance.

After eating Mercedes did not immediately begin writing her letter. She had become caught up in the discussion with Harry, Hermione and Ginny as well as enjoying laughing despite current circumstance. It felt good to just laugh and talk as though it was just any other ordinary day.

It wasn't until Kreacher had popped in to let them know that the request to 'Marcella' had been sent that Mercedes began working on the letter to Narcissa. Mercedes wanted to have the letter completed and delivered before Tonks arrived and helped her with the predicament she was in. Also, she wanted Draco there.

Without wasting any time, Mercedes wrote:

Dear Draco's Mum,

I know you have permitted me to use your first name as you prefer that I do over being formal, but right now addressing you as I have is comfortable for me.

I can't imagine what you are going through but I think that I understand. Though it has been difficult and hard for me…I am sure that it is much worse for you being that you are a mother. I really don't want to get into this too much, so I really hope that you get what I am saying without saying it. I think it would be best to take it one day at a time and maybe when you feel the maternal instincts kicking in write it down and then maybe one day you could give to me.

Your offer is appreciated more than I could ever express and I will be sure to let my…parents know.

I feel (not sure why) that I should tell you it turns out that I have this ability-feels more like a curse at the moment-I do not know one thing about it. I suppose I should mention what the ability is. I am talking about Metamorphmagi…Metamorphmagus…talk about a shock to me senses. I was my normal self when I entered the bathroom. By the time I left the stall and looked in the mirror…so not my normal self. I'm still kind of freaking out but not as bad I was a few hours ago. I don't know if it is the fact that I do not know how to change back or the shock of how I look right now.

I am alright so please do not try to find me to see me. I'd rather no one see me right now but will accept only a few seeing me. I just wish that I knew more, knew how to control the morphing, how to change back. Oh, speaking of which, Harry knows someone that can help me with changing back. We just received word that the request has been sent. And for reasons that I am sure will be explained at some time in the future, the person that is going to help me is going under a disguise of being my cousin Marcella Johnson. Only a small handful know that I am a Metamorphmagus, or well believe it that is but it doesn't matter. I just thought you should know for should you hear anything.

On a different subject…how is your husband? Is he any better? The same? I hope getting better, but if not…no change is a good thing. Just meaning that if there is no change then he's stable.

Once I am back to normal…well, the norm that I know anyway…I would like to visit with you and your husband. I know that I do not need to say it as you know what request is burning to be written.

Mercedes Johnson

After the last letter had been completed and readied to be delivered, Sparky appeared in the room with a letter for Mercedes from her parents. After accepting the letter from Sparky, Mercedes asked the elf he would help her with delivering some letters for her. Sparky agreed to do so and listened to Mercedes instructions pertaining to Draco Malfoy.

It did not take long for Sparky to find Dobby and to pass on the instructions for the delivery of the letter to Draco. The following moment the elves popped out to different destinations.

xxxXXXxxx

Narcissa was surprised in part to getting a reply so soon. Mostly it was what she read that surprised her as well as warmed her heart. She was excited about the visit and it showed as she told Lucius and explained that the subject of them being blood family was not to be brought up until Mercedes was ready to talk about it and had ample time to deal with the news given the way she found out.

Lucius was excited about the visit as he was no sure how much time he would have to get to know the young girl. Lucius was determined to accept and relish in any and every moment he received to spend and talk to Mercedes as he was not sure how much time he had. Lucius also hoped with more than he had that Mercedes would come around soon and accept their familial connection, to accept him, Narcissa and Draco as part of her family. The thought of not being a family with Mercedes pained him severely as well as the thought, the possibility that he will not get to watch his daughter grow up and become successful in any and all endeavors. He had hope and that was going to hold him over for as long as he had.

xxxXXXxxx

Draco had multiple reactions to the letter from Mercedes. He was glad she replied and wanted to see him. He was at a loss about the Metamorphmagus part as he didn't know much. The mention of his father resulted in sadness washing over the young wizard. Draco didn't know how his father was as no one would tell him anything, but he was not stupid and had eyes. Draco could see that his father was not improving and in fact looked worse every time he visited his father.

Draco folded the letter and stuck in one of his back pockets. Before he could say anything to Dudley or do anything he found himself in the Room of Requirement with four of his friends.

"You know, you could have also told Dobby to warn me that he was going to bring me here." Draco said sarcastically offended. "Doesn't matter that you mentioned he'd bring me here."

"I could have I suppose, but that wouldn't have been me and you know it." Mercedes said snootily while obviously trying not to laugh menacingly. "What no reaction? That's a surprise…no one has really come right out but I can see it their eyes, the shock mostly but, with you…no reaction that I can see."

Draco just shrugged his shoulders as he really didn't know what to say or how to explain why he showed no reaction at seeing her. The only thing he could think of as to why he had no reaction showing or any for that matter was that he was seeing her, that she wanted to see him and wanted him with her.

"And, just what kind of reaction were you expecting?" Draco said with a small playful smirk. "I am…relieved that you are talking to me again and wanting to hang out again." Draco added in a serious tone.

"Really? You're just relieved?" Mercedes asked sounding neutral.

"What else would I be?" Draco countered.

Mercedes shrugged her shoulders in response. She didn't know what to say really and she didn't want to repeat what a few other fellow students had said.

"I don't know…look at me…" Mercedes said suddenly.

"I am looking at you." Draco said.

"And?"

"And what? All I see is one of my best friends." Draco replied.

"Draco…"

"No, Mercedes…" Draco said cutting the witch off. "All I see is one of my best friends. Why would I see anything or anyone else?" Draco said quite firmly. "Any way, I look good enough for the both of us…hell I look enough for all of our friends." Draco added with a chuckle.

Mercedes smiled and launched herself at Draco and held him in a tight embrace as a few tears rolled down her face. Deep down the witch knew that she could count on her friends and family to support her and stay by her side she just couldn't get past the self-doubt. Mercedes was confused by the self-doubt as she had never doubted herself in the past, before Hogwarts. At that point the witch realized that it was associated by attending Hogwarts and add in until recently no one knew she existed. To top it all off discovering that she is a Metamorphmagus and can't change back doesn't help with doubt and esteem issues.

Hearing what Draco had said and the sincerity as well as at the end being comical Draco meant so much to her. The witch set a goal for herself and it was to stop worrying and fearing what her friends and or family might think. Mentally Mercedes was also beating herself up acting the way she had been and was still acting.

Draco was surprised by the sudden hug, by the sudden affection but returned the hug all the same.

At this point Sparky appeared in the room startling all five though Draco and Mercedes managed to keep some of the hug intact.

"Sparky is sorry for startling you. Missies relative is on her way to help."

"Thank you Sparky." Harry said happily knowing that it wouldn't be long until Mercedes was back to her normal self.

Mercedes was so excited that she couldn't express herself but gripped Draco quite tightly. Draco took it in stride and was not going to say anything about her grip as he knew it would only diminish her excitement. Draco could not take away any of Mercedes' excitement.

While Hermione watched the interaction between Draco and Mercedes memories of growing up flooded Hermione's mind. The images that went through Hermione's mind flipped like a slideshow as though still images from video film showing her moments with her parents on vacation, family events and other events. The smiles, laughter and the warmth and love of family flooded Hermione and washed over her.

The next thing to go through Hermione's mind was the most recent thing that had happened between her and her parents. The feeling and sensation of longing and missing her parents engulfed the witch resulting in her giving a quick glance around the room before slipping out unnoticed. Or so Hermione thought. With her back towards everyone she could not have seen Harry watching her leave.

Harry had a feeling that seeing Mercedes and Draco and the hint of family emanating off the two had sparked something in Hermione in regard to her parents. Harry turned his attention back to his remaining friends in the Room of Requirement and did all that he could do to keep them from noticing the loss of Hermione in the room as well as to prevent questions he had no confirmed answers to give and so that no one decided to go after Hermione. It was up to Hermione whether or not she explained why she left.

xxxXXXxxx

As Hermione made her way to Gryffindor House and her dorm room all she could think was that what had happened now seemed silly and it was time to let it go. It was also time to let go of the anger and hurt she had felt towards and from her parents. Upon entering her dorm room, Hermione froze in place as she recalled a letter she had received from her father a while back.

Hermione quickly reached her bed and pulled out her trunk to retrieve the letter. Once finding the letter Hermione sat down on her bed and stared at the letter briefly before shakily opening the letter to read:

My dearest daughter Hermione,

I received your letter a while ago and I have been thinking about quite a bit. I will give you the name of my birth family, but I have a few things to say first.

I send my deepest apologies in this letter. First, your mother and I apologize for not discussing magical ability when you were younger and that there is a strong possibility that you will possess magic. And Secondly for not taking the time to think about Granger Estate and talking things out with you and sitting down and making a family decision. You are a Granger and have the right to accept or decline anything regarding to the Granger family name.

Your mother and I are full aware that you have, on your own, claimed the Granger Estate. I admit that at first I was not happy but, now I realize that you had no choice and that you really want to fully be a part of your Granger heritage in all ways. I am proud of you for doing what you had to do in order to not lose the Estate by missing the dead line to claim. By claiming the Estate it made your mother and I realize that you are quite grown up. You are mature beyond your years and you clearly know what you are doing.

I can't imagine the level of hurt we caused you in regard to both instances…circumstances I should say. It pains me so much to know that I hurt you and for the first time your life disregarded your say. I hope you know that your mother and I love more than anything in this world and we only want what is best for you and to protect you. We know that you can handle your own and are perfectly capable of protecting yourself, being a parent we can't help but want to always protect our children and more often than not we are blinded by how capable our children are. With that said I know it does not excuse how we reacted.

I know this is too soon, but your mother and I would very much love to have a dinner as soon as possible with you, your cousins and Aunt Petunia. It would be wonderful to get to know the rest of the family that remains. There is not many of us and it is not acceptable that we are estranged especially since both sides, the Potter's and the Granger's had reconciled.

My family name is 'Denali'. I am not knowledgeable enough about the family to be the one to tell you about them. All I know is that they were bad news and I did not agree with them. As you know I was disowned for marrying your mother. Knowing you, you will want to research the family name. Unfortunately, you won't find much beyond a mention of the 'Denali family' as everything else was removed from public record. I do not believe that there is person alive that would know anything about the Denali family and if there is, I know without a doubt that they will not want to talk about that family.

I will close for now as I want to get this letter out to you sooner rather than later.

Always know that your mother and I love you unconditionally and always will.

All my love,

Dad

Tears fell freely from Hermione's eyes soaking her face. Through it all there was also a smile the witches face. Hermione could feel the genuine remorse and love that went into the letter. She was a little hurt that her mother had not sent her own letter but Hermione wasn't going to let it tear apart her family and would wait to see if her mother would send a letter. It would not matter how late the letter from her mother arrived as it would still be accepted.

Once Hermione calmed down she looked back over the letter and zeroed in on the name 'Denali'. She whispered it several times trying to recall if she had ever seen the name in print anywhere. After an hour and still coming up blank, Hermione knew that she was going to have to try and research the family name.

After making a plan Hermione felt as though her heart had dropped from her chest and landed in her feet. The self-appointed project came to mind. She felt bad about putting the project on the back burner. The next few hours Hermione thought a lot about the project and a personal research project she was forming. She wanted to work on both but knew there was no way that she could without risking her health or even her life to keep up with both.

Hermione came to a decision with a heavy heart, but she had to reset a completion date for the self-appointed project to help the Malfoy family. There was nothing else she could do as she could not put a personal research project on hold. And if her father was correct that she wouldn't be able to find anything on the Denali family name she could resume working on helping the Malfoy family.

Hermione left Gryffindor House but did not return to the Room of Requirement. Instead, she headed on outside to get some fresh air and to think a bit more on her decision. She had to go over all variables in order to be comfortable with her decision. She did not stay outside long as it was quite frigid out. Hermione did not have a destination in mind but found herself in the library. Since she was there Hermione decided to search through the section dedicated to wizarding family lines.

After removing a few books on wizarding families pertaining to the last names beginning with the letter 'D', the witch made her way to a table that was in plain sight and view from any direction.

The further Hermione got into the books the more frustrated she became as she had even come across the Denali name. She was so frustrated at reaching the end of another book without any mention of the Denali family Hermione slammed the book shut, closed her eyes, leaned back in her chair and attempted to meditate so she could calm down.

Finally calm and in control Hermione opened her eyes to see the librarian, school nurse and most of the Professor's at Hogwarts, including the Headmaster.

"Miss. Granger I am surprised to see you in here?" Dumbledore said with a friendly smile.

"I was just looking for something that appears to not exist but I know that it does." Hermione answered honestly with as much information she was willing to share.

Dumbledore gave Hermione a nod of understanding as though he knew she was looking for something personal but not exactly what. As the group of school staff passed by Snape gave Hermione a look of worry and concern. Hermione did her best to convey in a look that it wasn't what it looked like and had nothing to do with Lucius Malfoy. Hermione was certain that she had not succeeded in achieving what she wanted to have.

The group of school staff had moved off to a more secluded area but could be seen from the main doors of library. Hermione shook her head clear and decided to try one more book. Coming up empty handed again, Hermione gathered the books and returned them to where she had retrieved them and left the library. This time she did return to the Room of Requirement.

"Hermione where did you go?" Ginny inquired curiously.

"I had to step out for a bit." Hermione replied vaguely. "I started thinking of my parents and remembered my dad had sent me letter that I was sure contained and answer to a question I had asked him. I read the letter and yes I received my answer." Hermione said after a short sigh. "I'd rather not get into the details as of yet. Ton…Marcella Johnson should be here any second I am sure." Hermione added before looking at Mercedes and saying, "Marcella helping you change back is more important than what I had asked my father and what his reply was."

"I am sure that Hermione will share with us when she is ready to do so." Harry said quickly coming to the aid of his cousin.

"Thank you Harry." Hermione said appreciatively.

Harry brushed it off with a small smile. No one said more on the subject but could tell that Hermione was trying to put on a brave face had them wondering what it was that had her in such a state but refrained from asking anything. It was a good thing as at that moment Dobby appeared in the room.

"Is she here?" Mercedes asked excitedly as well as hopeful.

"Missies cousin approaching the gates now." Dobby answered. "Sparky is watings at the gates."

It wasn't long until Sparky arrived in the room with Tonks. As the glamor combined with Tonk's Metamorphmagus ability dissipated to reveal the witches true appearance, said witch could not help but stare at Mercedes.

"I know…I must be a sight." Mercedes said sarcastically with a hint of depression.

"No…no…it's not what you are thinking." Tonks said quickly feeling stupid for staring.

"If it's not what I am thinking, then what is it?" Mercedes asked unsure if the witch before her was sincere or just trying to cover up her true reaction.

"First, just to clarify, you didn't know you have the ability of Metamorphmagi before today?" Tonks asked with a look of awe in her eyes.

"Correct." Mercedes said in an irritated tone.

Very few that possess the ability of Metamorphmagi can create the appearance Mercedes had created and with the background information Tonks had left the young Auror impressed.

Tonks was seeing many things with Mercedes. Mercedes hair was animated in the sense that it was fluctuating in length, between wavy and pin-straight and changing color like a Muggle fiber optic light in the colors of: Chestnut, Platinum Blond, Black, Green, Silver and Blue as the prominent colors with the hint of Gold and Red. Mercedes eyes were doing a similar thing as her eyes were changing rapidly between deep blue, greyish blue and a rich brown color. Her eyes were shaped as though slits like a snake or hawk. Mercedes skin changed from pale white like the Malfoy's and an olive tone with patches of feathers and scales like a snake alternating in a pattern of sorts.

As Tonks was taking all of this in, she caught that there was something else in play with the Morphed appearance.

"Are you doing anything, magically I mean? There is something else going on other than being stuck in a Morphed state." Tonks asked intrigued.

"I'm not doing anything on a magical level and what do you mean there is something else going on?" Mercedes said confused and the beginnings of fear creeping up.

"Shite!" Harry exclaimed. "Tonks there is something that I do not think you were informed of. I should have explained before you saw Mercedes. I know perfectly why Professor Snape didn't give many details." Harry added.

"Now would be a good time to explain." Tonks said excitedly.

Harry gave Tonks but didn't say anything right away. Harry gave Mercedes and Draco a look that they understood and moved further into the Room of Requirement so that they were out of hearing range.

Harry dove straight into the explanation that for the past several years Lucius Malfoy had actually been kept hostage in his own home, that they wizarding world had instead been dealing with Amon Velius, that Mercedes was the baby girl Narcissa had given up and the protections Narcissa put in place.

"Oh my. It looks to me as though this revelation and discovery or more so the dealing with the discovery isn't going well." Tonks muttered.

"I believe it has more to do with how Mercedes and Draco found out. Narcissa and Lucius are taking this loads better then Draco and Mercedes." Harry explained.

"Okay, so I am working with a new Metamorphmagus who is stuck in a morphed state with a glamor." Tonks muttered to herself. "This is going to be fun." Tonks said sarcastically.

"Tonks…" Hermione began.

"I can't promise anything but I will give it my all to help Mercedes to change back. The reason why I can't promise anything is because of the glamor. It's not impossible, it's just really complex. It would be easier without the glamor in place but, I will try with the glamor in place." Tonks explained.

"I am sure that you have figured it out already and Tonks I hope you don't take this the wrong way…" Hermione began.

"Mercedes is having the most difficulties with the discovery and how it came out. No talking about her being the Malfoy's dearly missed family member." Tonks said with a small smile on her face. "Hermione I know you meant well and it is obvious that you care and are protective of Mercedes. Obvious or not if one gets the unspoken words you make sure it is crystal clear that it is understood…that is a quality that you should be proud of."

All Hermione could do was smile.

"Well, Mercedes and I should get started. Unfortunately, only a few of you can remain. Mercedes is distracted enough…"

"We understand Tonks." Hermione said chuckling and giving Tonks a small smile.

Ginny walked over to Mercedes and Draco and let them know that Tonks was ready to begin and that she will only allow a few of them to remain while the worked together.

"I hope you three don't mind that only Draco stays with me while…"

"Not at all Mercedes." Harry said quickly understanding more than Mercedes did at the moment.

Harry, Hermione and Ginny left the Room of Requirement without another word spoken.

"Harry…what was that all about?" Ginny asked knowing that Harry caught something more in what Mercedes had said.

"I will answer that once we are in Gryffindor House." Harry replied.

Harry didn't immediately answer the question Ginny had asked upon entering Gryffindor House.

After locating an empty area that was far enough away from fellow Gryffindor's in groups that they could not hear what he was going to say. Harry did give the common room a glance for Ron, Violet and the twins but did not see any of them.

"Okay Harry, spill it." Hermione said in a tone of authority.

"Really Hermione…"

"Sorry Harry."

"The reason why Mercedes wanted Draco to remain is because, though deep down and not on the surface, Mercedes wants…her brother with her. The Malfoy blood and magic recognize the connection with Draco. On the forefront of Mercedes mind is the friend ship relationship and only that." Harry explained quietly to ensure that no one heard him.

"I don't see how that helps Mercedes or the Malfoy's." Ginny said knowing that she was missing something and it bothered her.

"The Malfoy blood and magic recognizes Draco as family, if not specifically brother, that being in place will help Mercedes deal with the situation. In a way Mercedes has started to deal with everything, slow going but still all the same." Hermione explained.

"I can see that in time Mercedes accepts the Malfoy's as part of her family but what if it comes together sooner?" Ginny inquired.

"With the Malfoy blood and magic coursing through Mercedes recognizing Draco it won't cause Mercedes to, in a sense, relapse." Hermione answered. "It is not likely that it will come together anytime soon. It will run its course." Hermione added.

"Hermione, you say it is not likely but could it?" Harry asked.

"Only if Mercedes and the Malfoy's bonded or came together as a family to help one member of the family."

"Bonded?" Ginny said clearly coming across as wanting more information.

"Bonding magically or a neutral physical plane of sorts there is also a non-conscious bond that happens automatically. The non-conscious bond happens when one or more on some level come to terms with a situation or problem as well accepts…it all happens non-consciously." Hermione explained.

"You mean, for example, say Mercedes suddenly feels a pull towards the Malfoy's or feels she is needed to help them and immediately goes to where they are and dropping whatever she's doing at the time." Harry said questioningly.

"Basically, yes." Hermione said and gasped with an expression of figuring out something.

"Hermione…"

"I think I figured it out…oh, sorry. Um…I'll explain at some point in the near future." Hermione said before she sprinted off and up the stairs.

Once in the dorm Hermione summoned her trunk from under her bed as she quickly walked towards her bed. Hermione opened her trunk and pulled out what she needed prior to writing:

Professor Snape,

I think I have my project concerning the Malfoy's figured out but will need to go over my notes. No, I am not asking to have my notes back right away. I am still going to take break from the project and in fact I have decided to push my dead line back. As much as I wanted to complete it by Christmas it will not be happening by then. Oddly enough I am okay with that. The reason why is actually personal, all I will say is that it pertains to my family. I gave a reason only because you always ask for a reason.

Hermione Granger

Hermione didn't even look over the note. She folded it, addressed it and called for an elf to deliver it for her.

A/N: I feel the need to clarify something in this chapter in regard to the last name Hermione's father had before taking the last name of Granger. A friend of mine that was visiting read over this chapter and asked me if I got the idea for using the name 'Denali' for Hermione's dads birth last name from the twilight saga. At that point I mentally smacked myself for not recognizing it. I got the idea from a vehicle I was behind at a stop light and thought that it was perfect.

My apologies for taking so long to get in a description of how Mercedes looked while stuck in a morphed appearance. At the time of writing the segment I did not have an idea as to what she would look like. The idea did not come to mind until the first appearance of Tonks in this story so I decided to just let it go and put in the description with Tonks entering the story.

I planned on working on at least one chapter solely dedicated to what is going on in the future or more accurately the original time line/universe. There is more that I want to cover before I get into the future. I will do my best to get everything that I want to cover before going to the future in the next chapter (it is in the works already and with any luck it will up soon).