A/N Happy Birthday Refreshingly Original!

I'm only sorry it's not longer, but I hope you like it anyway :)

A/N April 12 I have changed a tiny part of this chapter, just so it sounded better in my head. It changes absolutely nothing regarding plot, so feel free to ignore.

Breathe... Breathe, Minerva!

A shuddering gasp, as air filled her lungs.

"Poppy, I can't, you know I can't… I'm old enough to be her Grandmother, for Merlin's sake! Never mind how old I am in body, I cannot condone this… The idea is unconscionable. Poppy, you must be mistaken. She cannot feel that way about me. I was her teacher."

"Min… All I'm saying, is that is where the signs point. Honestly, I would have thought you'd not be that bothered by this, it's practically just another student crush… Not the first time something like this has happened. The only difference being that her magic now works differently. Speaking of which, we really ought to get Olivander here for a consultation… Perhaps regaining use of a wand will give her a modicum of control."

"Poppy…"

"Look, Minerva. Given time, this will likely all blow over, as have all other student crushes ever. Perhaps when Potter and Weasley arrive, she may well get over her fixation on you. I seem to remember her being quite enamoured with Mister Weasley, once upon a time."

"Fine. I'll get in contact with Garrick; see if I can get him to make a house-call, so to speak."

Mr Olivander's eerie unblinking gaze locked on Hermione; giving the impression he was seeing far more of her than she was of him. She allowed the study, instinctively knowing that whatever knowledge he gained would remain his alone. He grasped his wand, and lifted it to perform a magical core diagnostic charm – at least, those were the words that floated across Hermione's consciousness. Finally, he lowered his wand, his eyes meeting hers again in a moment of impossible intensity.

"Miss Granger. I am afraid that I am unable to match a wand for you."

She canted her head to one side, her expression openly articulating her curiosity.

"Why not?"

"I'm certain you have noticed how your magic has become far more responsive to your moods? Yes, well, regardless of the cause of this phenomenon, your magical core and your soul have almost completely merged, so it has become an extension of your person, rather than an innate tool, as with most other magical beings. Some notable magical creatures you share this with include, but are most definitely not limited to unicorns and dragons. Actually, flobberworms also share this trait; however, the lack of a limbic system renders this ability completely useless. However, I digress. The point is, the same way a phoenix could never be fitted with a wand – even if it had the physical capability to use it – you also are unable to be fitted with a wand. What good is a wand when you are perfectly capable of extraordinary magic without?"

After extensive questioning on Hermione's part, Mr Olivander shared that his wand scans indicated that given time, her soul and magical core would merge completely. Once this had occurred, she would find her control much improved. However, the old man cautioned her to practice control of her emotions, as they are inextricably entwined with her magic. Occlumency, her starting point.

This is the part where I shamelessly beg for reviews ;)