Notes: Chapter One

The main change to chapter one is a change that, although not vital, helped to improve the overall plot (in my opinion, at least). This is the change to Hermione's motives concerning The Challenge. In the old version, she was very reluctant to take up The Challenge. She was concerned with breaking the rules and making Snape angry. However, when I looked back through the chapters, I realized that just wouldn't work. It got annoying reading about how Hermione wasn't enjoying herself and was, in fact, only doing the tasks because of the Challenge. Yes, she did eventually come to enjoy herself, but it took too long.

So, I made the change in chapter one. While she isn't wildly enthusiastic about the whole thing, she is far more open to it than she once was. I also add that the war is over, which I don't think was ever made clear in the last version. Now there is no doubt; the war is over. Hermione is tired of working so hard, not just in school but during the war. Now it's time for some fun.

I don't think I'll ever reveal the events of the war; it really isn't necessary to the story. Suffice it say, the trio played a large part, along with some others, notably Snape, Dumbledore, Tonks, McGonagall and perhaps even Lucius and Draco. Certainly, Draco and Lucius have been, if not totally redeemed, then somewhat reformed. Still mildly evil, of course, and far too interested in the Dark Arts for their own good... But in the end they somehow managed to fight Voldemort's influence and broke away from the ranks of the Death Eaters. Cliche? Perhaps. But as I do want to include Draco and Lucius later in the story, it was necessary. After all, former Death Eaters don't go to Hogwarts, and aren't friends with various Hogwarts Staff. At least, not in this fic...

Back to the changes though. Hermione realizes that, as long as she stays on top of her studies and it won't get her expelled, there's no reason why she can't have some fun. She deserves it; they all do. I think the story will work a lot better this way. Writing a reluctant Hermione was boring; writing one who is enjoying the tasks is a lot more fun.

There were other minor changes, mostly grammar and characterization-wise. Nothing that really needs to be discussed.

One thing to keep in mind, though it will be made clear later on in the fic, is that Lavender and Parvati are not the bimbos they seem in the actual books. I have taken liberties with all the characters, and not just in negative ways. Lavender and Parvati, you will soon discover, can be very powerful witches.

Parvati is straightforward and speaks her mind; she gets straight to the point of the matter. She is good with Illusions and Transfiguration. Lavender is not a silly chit, but rather a mature young woman. She is tied with Hermione for top of Charms. While they are both more into fashion and makeup and whatnot than Hermione ever was or ever will be, they can be serious and smart when the time calls for it. And quite devious, as well. That does not change some basic facts about the duo, however. They still notice people's looks, far more than Hermione does. They can still do fantastic makeovers. They do still read Witch Weekly. Basically, they are a good mixture of smart/serious and silly/make-up loving.

Those are the major points that needed to be made concerning Chapter One. Thanks again!