Order Only: Private Message to Alice and Frank Longbottom

[alt_severus]

It occurs to me that you might not prefer to have your son and daughter's private business spilled throughout an Order meeting any more than it has to be.

That said, I believe we have more to discuss on the matter. I wished to invite a conversation, though, as always, I shall be very busy to-night.

Comments

[alt_severus]

McLaggen's baser nature appears to be a strong feature of his personality.

[alt_alice]

Oh.

Oh, dear. I'd thought

She's only just thirteen.

Does Minerva know?

[alt_severus]

I am not certain.

Part of me says that she must not, or else she would put a charm like to Hermione's on your daughter; but she could not explain such a charm, and in any case (as has been demonstrated) it is not entirely fair to the charm-defended—or their future, wanted suitors.

I also do not believe that Minerva has enough of a conscience left to fully care.

You realise that she killed Alecto Carrow in cold blood: not an action I would consider beyond the pale in a Slytherin, but telling for a Gryffindor.

[alt_alice]

Frank and I can talk this summer with Evelyn. And give her some choices that may help her, that she can have control over. We'd talked about things she could do it she ever felt unsafe when we were together last summer, but I still can't imagine she was very prepared. No-one should have to be prepared.

I hate that it is necessary for me to have that sort of conversation with her.

And I can't stomach the thought of sending her back to that place again.

[alt_severus]

If she is to be prepared for life in the Protectorate, it is a conversation that cannot be put off.

And you know that she must be taught, and learn, and protect herself.

None of us choose where and when we are born.

[alt_alice]

You're right.

I'd much rather our family know what it's facing than not, and sort out ways to prevent what happened in the future than pretend all is well.

It's just difficult to look on things rationally at the moment, regardless of how little good it does.

[alt_alice]

And yes, we are in agreement that Minerva's actions of late have been decidedly worrisome.

As was her demeanour at our meeting.

If she is to continue along this self-destructive path, I worry about her future. Hers, ours, Hogwarts, all of it.

[alt_frank]

are you telling me that he put his hands on my little girl?

[alt_severus]

Only that he wanted to.

I do not believe any permanent damage was done.