Condolences

[alt_draco]

Unfortunate news in the Prophet today. It seems that Julius Avery, former head boy and current council member, fell victim to a wand cleaning mishap that took his life. Avery was an upstanding citizen of the Protectorate and would have surely shaped the future of Britain in numerous beneficial ways. His death is a tragic loss to us all, and I offer my sympathies to his surviving family and friends.

Of course, for those of you who were sponsored by Avery in the council challenge, this must be a particularly painful loss that strikes close to your hearts. No doubt the other sponsors are, at this very moment, devising a plan to keep you in contention for council membership.

On a personal note, Avery was a Slytherin role-model to all in our house, and in my younger years I frequently consulted him for advice and guidance on all manner of things. I am sure to feel the loss of his association in the years to come, and I know others of you will, as well.

Comments

Private message to Raz

[alt_draco]

I've been wondering... you see, I'm well aware that "wand cleaning accidents" are often code for death-by-duel. Any idea what actually happened to Avery?

To say nothing of some of the other high-profile deaths of late. Glendower, Bode...

Is there anything I should know? Normally, I would ask my father, but things being what they are with his situation, that doesn't strike me as the best source to turn to.

Re: Private message to Raz

[alt_rabastan]

I only have third hand reports about Avery's death. I understand that your father gave an accounting of the events with Avery at Court.

Glendower stuck his wand where it didn't belong and broke it off.

We are so far removed in the Scottish Highlands, your father remains more connected to events in New London.

Bode made game ending mistakes and paid the price.

As always my door is open to you if you want to talk about the few more details I have. Barty bragged shared a bit more.

Re: Private message to Raz

[alt_draco]

Well that's all very vague and dire. And yes, I will come by. Couch is the last person I'd go to for information of any kind.

Order Only - Private message to Hermione

[alt_draco]

Can I borrow a book from you?

Re: Order Only - Private message to Hermione

[alt_hermione]

Well, of course--but what book do I have that you don't? I mean, that you couldn't get on your own?

Re: Order Only - Private message to Hermione

[alt_draco]

I have it on good authority that American Witches is not to be missed.

Re: Order Only - Private message to Hermione

[alt_hermione]

Oh!

Really? Because they're quite--well, I mean, they're loads of fun but they're really not very good, you know, they're meant for younger readers.

So you might not like them as much as other people. They're fairly silly.

But if you're serious about wanting to try them, I can lend you the first couple. I'll transfigure the covers so they look more scholastic.

Re: Order Only - Private message to Hermione

[alt_draco]

Truth told, it'd be welcome to have something silly to look forward to during those times when I'm not preparing myself to join the council and pretend to be Voldemort's loyal warrior.

Also, I've always wondered about American witches.

Thanks, I was going to change the covers myself but if you've already done it that's all the better.

Re: Order Only - Private message to Hermione

[alt_hermione]

Well, they're not really American, you know. They're written here and I very much doubt the authors have ever even been to America. But they're still sort of--well, fluffy. But good! I mean, they're surprisingly effective, given how transparent they are.

Did Professor Lestrange tell you anything useful about Avery?

Re: Order Only - Private message to Hermione

[alt_draco]

What? But I want America, where they supposedly have charms to make your hair lighter and your teeth straighter and your bristols bigger. Not that I want lighter hair, or bristols...wouldn't mind straighter teeth. Just right there on the bottom ones.

Funny to think about a place like that, America. Muggleborns go to the same schools as everyone else. We'd be classmates.
Maybe even I mean, you're right. They'd never let someone write something like that here.

I'd like to read them anyway.

And oh, I'll have to go see Raz in his office for more details. All I know now is that my father made some kind of statement about Avery's death at court today. Not sure I want to think further as to why.

[alt_daphne]

It really is a tragedy. I'll never forget how helpful and kind he was to me when Barney was... well, when I needed assistance with a difficult matter.

So thoughtful of you to write this, Draco. Perhaps we ought to all have a moment of silence in the common room tonight?

[alt_draco]

Excellent idea, Daphs. I'll talk to Elsie, but let's plan on it.

Private message to Draco

[alt_daphne]

Avery was kind to me, you know. After what happened with Barney. He made sure that Barney was kept away, escorted him down the hallways, that sort of thing.

Anyway. Draco, I know you say it's all part of a plan, but are you.. are you really certain this is what you want?

Re: Private message to Draco

[alt_draco]

I don't know if "want" is the right word. More like "absolutely must have."

Don't worry, I know it probably doesn't make sense to you now, but trust me when I say that one day, it will. And you can't start worrying about me now, anyway. It's far too late for that.

Bole will get his, one day. I'll see to it. No one deserves the kind of treatment he put you through, but especially not someone like you.

Re: Private message to Draco

[alt_daphne]

I don't need you to see to it, Draco. I'll take care of Barney myself, when the time is right. But that's a kind offer. You're very kind to me, really. Sometimes I wish

You don't need to talk to Elsie. You're busy enough as is! I'll have a word with her at supper.