A/N: Even if this interlude isn't as fun as the last one was, it is relevant to the story.

Interlude: Meanwhile in the Muggle World

Hermione Granger, age 27, was depressed, again. Her drive to learn and to prove herself to the world had led to a friendless existence. Not many could handle being outshone by such brilliance as Hermione's. Besides, she was often a bit overbearing and condescending without thinking about it. So, although she had tried, in the end, she was alone. That is to say, except for when someone wanted to copy her homework etc.. After completing her A-levels Hermione had gone to university and from there immediately been employed by a medical research facility. Unfortunately for them she had resigned almost immediately because she found out exactly what their policy for human trials were.

At the moment Hermione was sitting in the wet wilted grass in a park, staring at the empty flowerbeds. As the days had shortened her depression had reached an all-time low and she desperately longed for the spring. Suddenly something moved in the flowerbed in front of her. Several handfuls of tiny flowers in pinks and yellows sprouted up and released a sweet smell in the air. This was not the first time something like this had happened. Once she had tried, but failed, to replicate the effects and after that she hadn't dared to again. The disappointment was more than she could take twice. No matter that just trying once wasn't very scientific. She had just closed her eyes and taken a deep breath when she opened them again, startled by a swooping sound. She was met by a strange sight: An owl with a letter in its beak sat perched on the ground in front of her. Staring at her. She carefully reached out to take hold of the letter and immediately the owl took off.

During the weeks to come Hermione Granger wasn't the only one to get a letter delivered by owl.

Immediately when she got home she opened her laptop and logged onto a website she frequented. She posted a notice for all to see:

Today it happened again, but this time something else happened as well. I got a letter, delivered by an owl if you can believe that, that told me to come to London for a meeting. I have posted a copy of the letter in my shared folder. I have a feeling this can be the answer to all of our questions.

A/N: Though short, this was a bit difficult to write. I hadn't meant to include Hermione, but when I thought it over I couldn't help but notice how perfectly she fits. Unfortunately, as I'm not too fond of her, I didn't know how to portray her neutrally but I hope I've succeeded. Please, tell me what you think.