#caitrionaebing

[fidemaledicta]

Words had never been something to define their friendship. Much rather it was the lack of them that had made the whole thing so special and at the very same time just so much simpler than anything else. The witch listened, like so many other times before and gave a nod. Her eyes had that spark, that understanding that those words spoken were more than what they seemed, not just a small explanation of plans but a statement of all that wouldn't happen. Emmeline let out a breath, listening as she observed the celebrating crowd, the small groups cheering with their parents and friends and whoever else had come around to congratulate. Despite how lonely it may have seemed, the brunette almost preferred it that way. There was something sad yet cathartic about not being surrounded by a bunch of people expecting the world to function in their way. Not everyone had that luxury, the world wasn't everyone's oyster. Not all the time.

Emmeline turned back toward Caitriona. Despite the polite smile, there was no confusion there nor did she expect the other to explain or cheer. That was how they functioned, no words needed to explain things. "What an awfully wonderful adventure. I'm sure it will be eventful." Her way of saying that she wished Cait all the best, hoped the other would find some form of happiness within the future that now lay ahead of her. While Emmeline may not have been part of those chosen for such pureblood specific things, her father had made sure that she was both prepared should things ever come to pass and aware of just how that world worked. A polite nod was all to be had in front of others. Her hand reached out, a quick squeeze. Perhaps it was the fact that graduation lay behind them, the world ahead one clouded in darkness that brought forth as much affection as she'd shown that day. The witch couldn't tell. "I'll make sure to send flowers."

There was relief over the change in topics and part of her believed that it wasn't just her that let a sigh of said relief escape. Such words were too pretentious to be enjoyed. Talking about the a possible career seemed both cruel and distracting enough. "I will begin training with the ministry. As a curse breaker. I have also made sure to arrange to train with Gringott's on occasion but for the most part I will be working with the curse breaker department, assisting the aurors in their cases as best as I can once I have become adept enough at my job." There was a certain pride there, one that left her with a small waterfall of words spilling forth from her. "It should leave me with plenty of time to visit Scribbulus." It was both her favorite place in Diagon Alley and her way of say 'Perhaps that's where we'll meet. One day. Life would be very different now.

fidemaledicta​:

It was a most bizarre feeling to walk through life with eyes open, a future in mind that made sense and not a single question about it only to wake up and realize that every step had been taken with eyes so very firmly shut that the wave of confusion one was hit with was almost too hard to bear. Emmeline never had any doubts about where belonged, who she would side with and take her steps into the world with, yet the past three months had caused her to fall into a spiral of questions that no one seemed to hold answers to. Even if there was a soul around that held the answers, the witch would have refused to ask the necessary questions because asking meant making the world she was now faced with a reality and that seemed far scarier than she ever cared to admit.

The time after that letter had passed by in the blink of an eye and somehow Emmeline found herself graduating from the place, she once considered her one true home. Her eyes were busy scanning the crowd around her; students celebrating with their friends and family. It made her feel like a stranger among the familiar. Here and there her friends, if she could still call them that, had reached out to cheer with her and she had politely joined in and nodded until she found a spot off to the side, her eyes focused on the lake in front of her before a voice and the feeling of her hand being squeezed dragged her from her thoughts. Brown eyes went searching until they found her friend’s.

How lucky she had been to find someone like Caitriona, how fortunate to share her time at Hogwarts with none other to call her dormmate and friend. Yet it was oddly clear how much the future would add to change that. Emmeline found herself sighing at the words the other spoke, a sad smile joining that of Caitriona’s. “I believe so. Something about celebrating the achievements and enjoying the thrill of a new adventure.” The witch found it hard to maintain the smile, so very aware of the fact that the future was anything but easy for either of them. “There is some reason to be happy, I’m sure. After all, we’ve made it through, haven’t we?” For the tiniest moment, Emmeline placed her hand upon Caitriona’s shoulder, giving her a squeeze in return. Neither of them had ever been big on openly showing affection. All of that was done by simply knowing. “What will you be doing now that you get to step out into the world?” Oh, she could imagine but there was still a flicker of hope that Caitriona would get to live a dream of sorts. How silly, to think that either of them would walk an easy path. @caitrionaebing

@fidemaledicta​

If Caitriona had been raised to be anything, it was a survivor. She was not a fighter, to rage against the fate that had been assigned to her, nor was she meant to be a lover, forging a life of her choosing hand in hand with another. She’d always been intended to be defined by those who came before her, and while she’d always understood a legacy was a heavy thing to carry, she was only beginning to learn how much of a burden it could be. There wasn’t anyone she could talk to about it, not without explaining Benjy, which was a risk she refused to take, but speech had always come second in her friendship with Emmeline. There was an empathy between them that surpassed words, and that was what Caitriona was looking for when she sought out her now former classmate.

Caitriona’s laugh in response to Emmeline’s words was perhaps more bitter than it ought to have been, yet at the same time it was not nearly as bitter as she felt. Any adventure in Caitriona’s life was most certainly behind her; there were no real questions left in her future. A Yaxley ring was waiting for her in the coming days and her mother and Yvette were already discussing a Fall wedding; from there it would be parties and entertaining and waiting for a son and trying to forget that she’d ever had a taste of something more. Maybe her fellow graduates were excited by the prospect of life outside of Hogwarts, but Caitriona wished she could stay forever. 

Ultimately, Caitriona had to steel herself to answer Emmeline’s question. She needed the practice, anyway, to discuss her impending nuptials as if they were something she looked forward to, or at least didn’t dread. It was, after all, what she’d been working toward all her life, the future she’d always been prepared for. “I’m to marry Xavier Yaxley. It was finalized a few months ago, but we decided to wait until after graduation to make the official announcement.” She managed to deliver the news in a matter of fact tone and that was enough; she knew Emmeline wouldn’t expect her to actually be enthusiastic about such a prospect. Still it was not something she wanted to discuss in depth, so she guided the conversation in a different direction. “Do you have a job lined up yet?”

[fractured-hq]

THE FOLLOWING BLOGS HAVE 48 HOURS TO RESUME ACTIVITY OR CONTACT THE MAIN:

@caitrionaebing

@alessandraesmee

@justicexdriven

@chasingharpy

@marlexne

@gammaoricnis

@admelicra

@oflucius

[elmswriting]

Who: Caitriona&Sirius @caitrionaebing​

Where: Regulus’ home

When: Regulus’ birthday

After a few attempts to get Regulus to come out to explore the nightlife with him, his little brother had finally agreed to come with him. Sirius had expected nothing less, since that was the way of order; Sirius wanted, Regulus caved in. Well, at least when it didn’t evolve major things, like family and such.

Anyway. It had been more fun than Sirius had dared hope, and somehow Regulus had found it in him to let loose and get drunk. Sirius had purposely held back a little to better be able to protect and help his younger brother, who had always been a poor drinker on top of not being used to hard partying. And so, with a rumble of high, messy energy that spoke of a very successful and long night, Sirius had finally brought Regulus back home. 

Having left Regulus with some brotherly wisdom and laughs to get better (and, mind, a potion to nurse Regulus’ hangover once he woke up again), Sirius rumbled down the corridors that he used to happily roam when Uncle Alphard had been alive. Man, he missed him. And as thoughts of family filled his fuzzy mind, it was another relative he stumbled upon by the fireplace. 

Caitriona had never made it a secret that she despised him. She had despised him when he was part of the family, and even more so after he had left. Sirius would have to be completely blind and ignorant to miss that. His own feelings for her were a bit more complex. He pitied her, for what she had gone through, and for her role in life and society, he despised her back for hating him and being another blind follower of pureblood mania, but he was also grateful for her watching over Regulus when he hadn’t been able to. 

“Cousin, dearest,” Sirius slurred in greeting, relaxing into his drunkenness now when Regulus was tucked in and safe. “What a ssssuprise. Long time, no see, huh?”

[intricateink]

Who: Rita and Caitriona @caitrionaebing​

Where: Caitriona’s favourite coffee shop

When: After the publication of Rita’s article on Caitriona

Rita had just published a rather scathing piece about Caitriona Burke. The article's contents were nothing short of scandalous, and Rita couldn't help but delight in the potential fallout. Now, she was eager to see Caitriona's reaction and perhaps even gather a few more juicy tidbits in the process.

With her usual cunning, Rita "accidentally" found herself sauntering through the doors of Caitriona’s favourite coffee shop. Her entrance was anything but subtle, her outfit and demeanour designed to draw the eye. Rita was an expert at commanding attention, after all.

She glanced around, her keen eyes quickly locating Caitriona sipping her coffee. She approached Caitriona with a sultry, confident stride, her voice dripping with feigned innocence and charm.

"Miss Burke! What a delightful surprise!" Rita purred, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "I must confess, I didn't expect to run into you here. But then again, great minds do think alike, don't they, darling?"

Rita paused for a moment, her gaze never leaving Caitriona's face, eager to gauge her reaction. "I trust you've seen my latest article? I do hope I managed to capture your essence accurately. After all, a woman of your calibre deserves nothing less than the truth, don't you agree?" She leaned in slightly, her eyes locked on Caitriona's, the corners of her lips turned up in a coy, knowing smile.

[secretarylestrange]

who: bellatrix lestrange & caitriona burke @caitrionaebing​​ where: borgin and burkes

She didn’t make a habit of being spotted in Knockturn Alley because of the rumors that tended to churn, especially when she made her way into Borgin and Burkes. She could have gotten an errand boy, or sent a house elf to pick this up, but the truth was she didn’t trust anyone enough to do that. That was how she found herself entering the door, adorned in a cloak that did a wonderful job hiding her as she lowered the hood and slowly made her way around the store. There likely wasn’t anything that she needed but it never stopped her from looking at the new inventory when she walked in, should something catch her eye. Bellatrix was greeted rather quickly, assured that her item was waiting in the back and she could head back to retrieve it. What she hadn’t expected to catch her eye was Caitriona Burke, her own head turning, dark hues slightly narrowed as she looked her over trying to remember the last time she’d seen the young woman. It she had to narrow it down the most prominent date in her head was Xavier’s funeral, no doubt. “I’m picking up for Lestrange.” She spoke, as though she needed to specify who she was, it wasn’t necessary, after all they’d spent plenty of nights with niceties when her husband had been alive. 

[mckinnonhits]

who: marlene mckinnon & caitriona burke @caitrionaebing​​ where: Borgin and Burkes

Marlene wasn’t the first pick to deliver the paperwork essentially stating that Caitriona wasn’t being charged with anything at this present time. But when she’d heard that they needed someone to deliver it she’d jumped up from her seat, offering to do the deed given that she was on her way home. It had saved them from trying to find someone who didn’t want to do it and making them. Now as she entered Borgin and Burkes she found herself questioning her decision in the smallest of ways. There’s was no way that Caitriona wanted to see her after everything, hesitating with her hand on the entrance she considered her options before pulling the door opening and entering the premise.

Despite the fact that giving the paperwork to the person at the counter would have been easier she instead elected to insist that it had to be hand delivered. “I only need to see her for a moment, if possible. I’m just here to deliver paperwork on behalf of the Ministry.” Marlene assured, holding up the envelope in question. 

[marlexne]

No matter the time that has passed, Marlene had still felt like there was not much awkwardness. Despite everything going on, she was learning to sepearate some things from the war- the people she knew, the people who were being hurtful. It had taken her months to be able to actually look into her soul and see who she had wanted to at least reach out to. With everything that has happened lately- and Marlene being just a little bit in the dark with it as she had been taking more shifts at work that she should have for ‘experience’. 

She approaches her former dormmate slowly, almost as if she is unsure she is ready to speak to the other yet.  Caitriona and her always had a somehow easy relationship- nothing was expected from the other, but they always were there if needed in a way, she had been lucky to have found that in a place she was unsure she had even belonged to in the first place.

‘Long time no see.’ she greets the other with a nod. ‘ I reckon it has not been that long, but it sounds extremely mysterious when others say it.’ / @caitrionaebing​ 

[benjyxfenwick]

☼ benjy & @caitrionaebing​

☼ location: borgin & burke’s, knockturn alley

In the span of a few weeks, Benjy had gone from the warm, confident, helpful Curse Breaker in his department to withdrawn, distracted, and worst of all, drunk. Benjy was a functioning drunk in the daytime, hiding it well, but he’d started becoming sloppy on the job and others had noticed. His superior had pulled Benjy into their office for a word and he’d denied anything being wrong. The question of the protest attack was brought up, which evidently caused such a visceral wince in him that his superior assumed Benjy had somehow gotten caught up in the events of that day and was still reeling from it. Thus, until further notice, Benjy was suspended from fieldwork and was delegated to following up on reports made to the department.

The decision had an adverse effect on Benjy. It solidified that Benjy was fucking everything up around him. As he was now independent during the workday, he could sneak in more swigs from his flask as he went from location to location to take statements from people about their knowledge on certain cursed items. On that particular morning, the file placed on his desk instructed him to go to Borgin & Burke’s and follow up on a report of a cursed amulet. The name of the shop itself sent Benjy’s buzzed mind into a spiral and his hand itching towards the flask in his robes. Of all the places, why her family’s business?

Standing outside of the shop in Knockturn Alley, he downed the final dregs of whisky from his flask before stepping inside of Borgin & Burke’s. His tall frame and Curse Breaker robes immediately caused the gazes of all those inside the shop to land on him, clients and shopkeepers alike. Benjy moved towards the counter, half of his mind focused on keeping his steps straight, the other half thanking the fact that he had not immediately run into Caitriona. Hopefully, she wasn’t here at all. “Curse Breaker Benjy Fenwick, here on behalf of the Ministry of Magic, Department of Magical Law Enforcement,” he muttered to the wizard standing at the till behind the counter. Benjy fumbled with the Curse Breaker badge stowed at the front of his robes, presenting it to the man. “I have some questions regarding a report made about an item in this shop.”

[msmeadcwes]

Who: Dorcas & @caitrionaebing​

Where: Auror Department

Dorcas finished her current report and sighed tiredly, leaning back against her seat. Days were getting longer and she often felt as if they weren’t achieving anything substantial. She looked at her watch and stood up slowly. By then, Caitriona Burke had been probably waiting for an hour. It was a technique that often worked, not always, but still. And maybe it was also her way of punishing her for the way she had treated Benjy all these years.

She took her time to find her file and even took the longer route towards the interrogation room. But eventually she arrived and walked in. Of course she was already there. “Good evening, Mrs. Burke” she said simply, as she took a seat on the chair and took out a clean sheet of paper from the file. She also took out a pen, finding pens way easier to manage than quills and ink, especially when taking notes.

“I understand you have been interrogated a while ago, this is merely a follow up interview” she commented, leaning back against her seat. “We are trying to close your investigation, but you see, there are still some inconsistencies... some statements that you made that are lacking of supportive evidence” she commented.

[fidemaledicta]

who: @caitrionaebingwhere: Diagon Alley, Scribbulus Writing Instruments

It was one of the rarer occasions, a shopping trip for only the most necessary and of course the most necessary visit to Scribbulus, her favorite little shop. There was something fascinatingly honest about stationary supplies, quills, and the scent of fresh parchment. The shop was also usually much emptier than the other ones around. Whereas Flourish & Blotts was a place filled with the busy feet of readers and young students, this place lacked human presence for the most part all together. Emmeline preferred it that way. It also seemed like the smallest store in the entire street despite seemingly, by magic so she assumed, fitting in so much more than the others. Only Ollivander’s could compare with its magnificently stocked-to-the-brim shelves.

Careful fingers were gliding across the new parchment types laid out in front of her when the bell announced another customer. The witch didn’t bother looking up until she heard the steps stop somewhere near her. Only then was her curiosity peaked enough for Emmeline to finally glance up. It was a mix of emotions than ran through her within mere seconds upon landing on the figure in front of her before settling on a knowing smirk, the type that she’d only ever thrown in the other’s direction. Even now it didn’t feel as though words were needed. There was no question there as to how a meeting such as theirs could have taken so long. There was no desire to know beyond all that she was aware of already. The world they lived in was too cruel to leave room for such things and between them it had never been needed.

Emmeline allowed herself to turn toward the witch fully. “Caitriona. It’s been a while.” Only ever statements between them. Anything that needed saying would be said in others way, it always had been. “They seem to have a new shipment of parchment.” Her own way of wondering what was new with Caitriona.

[fidemaledicta]

No words could have ever described how delicate yet strong, how simple yet complex their friendship had been. To many on the outside it would have looked like nothing more than two polite strangers while others perhaps would have had an inkling that neither would ever give away any clue that would hint toward them actually getting along. In that regard fewer words than ever would be shed, and the few that were would be between them in their entirety. "A little bit of both. They have replenished plenty of the old favorites but added a whole new section of parchment and quills." The witch gave way to a slightly warmer smile. "I can't seem to get past the good, old favorites but the new ones certainly hold some intrigue."

Her fingers reached out, brushing over the parchment samples in front of her, feeling the texture to determine the quality. "The quality seems as unchanged as it's always been." It was almost comical how many things the two could say to each other without ever saying anything a normal being could put any meaning to. A conversation about parchment could hardly hold anything of importance, could it? And yet it meant the world to Emmeline. Caitriona was a living reminder of a time the witch had left behind a long time ago. Despite the amount of secrets each of them had held over the years, most unspoken, it was perhaps Caitriona that Emmeline could see herself feeling the largest amount of guilt over when it came to the secrets she now carried. Joining the Order had come almost naturally years ago, but it was nothing she could ever mention to the other.

Emmeline's attention returned to the parchment in front of her, reaching out to check another fresh sheet of the newer ones. "What do you make of the newer additions? Sublime quality, surely." It was her way of making sure the other was alright. Once upon a time there would have been importance in being well, having a good life. Now she only held onto what felt more realistic. At the end of the day, in times like these, they were all just getting by. One way or another.

@fidemaledicta

Caitriona had never been one who considered shopping a hobby. It had always seemed like such an egregious waste of time when there were any number of better, more interesting things to be doing. Purchases, especially of shoes, clothes, and the like, should have a purpose and when Caitriona found herself browsing it was almost always because she was looking for something specific. The notable exceptions to this rule were bookstores, and Scribbulus Writing Instruments. Scribbulus in particular was a meticulously organized and extensively stocked shop that Caitriona deeply appreciated. 

It was a rare treat for Caitriona to spend time at Scribbulus. As a rule, she avoided anywhere with an excess of feathers whenever possible, but Scribbulus was worth the dizziness and headaches that always accompanied a dose of allergy potions. Usually, just stepping foot in Scribbulus was enough to ease Caitriona’s mind, but today there was an unexpected obstacle in the form of Emmeline Vance. The other woman had been the closest thing to a true friend Caitriona had while at Hogwarts, although they’d never acknowledged such a thing out loud, but that could have been an entire lifetime ago.

For a moment, as Caitriona met Emmeline’s eyes, she worried that the unspoken understanding that had always existed between them would be gone. These days Caitriona felt like a shadow of her former self, and she wasn’t confident that the person she was now was the same as Emmeline. Then, Emmeline offered Caitriona the same, papercut of a smile she always had, and some tight thing in Caitriona’s chest eased. “It has indeed.” Caitriona’s own smile matched Emmeline’s for size and subtlety, but there was still the same wordless warmth behind it. She took a few steps closer to her former dormmate, asking, in their way, how Emmeline was doing. “Is it restock, or have they purchased new brands?”

[mckinnonhits]

who: marlene mckinnon & caitriona burke @caitrionaebing​​ where: caitriona’s family home when: august 16th, 1981

Inhale, exhale. The first name of what she was assured would be several had caused Marlene to falter, if only for a second. She knew, in the back of her mind, that not following the orders given by the Ministry would only make matters worse but that didn’t make it easier. She hesitates on the steps for a moment, wondering if Caitriona would fight her. She fiddles with her wand in her sleeve, worn in preperation for a fight that she hopes doesn’t happen. With paper in hand Marlene considers her options, electing to knock on the door in hopes this would go better than expected, before blowing it off the hinges. 

[theenchantedecho]

top 5 most eligible bachelor/bachelorettes?

To my discerning and ever-curious readers of The Daily Prophet,

An intriguing query indeed - who are the top 5 most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes prancing about our beloved wizarding world at present? A hearty task but fear not, my dears, I have risen to the occasion.

1. Benjamin “Benjy” Fenwick: Now, if you prefer a dash of bravery with a sprinkle of intellect, Benjy is your man. As a Curse Breaker for the Ministry of Magic, his job alone screams adventure! He's been known to whip up a mean curry, too. We've all heard tales of the elusive Fenwick family recipes, haven't we? Just remember, to conquer this brave heart, you'll need to be quick with your wit and even quicker with your spellwork!

2. Caitriona Burke: Our list would be dreadfully incomplete without a dollop of scandal, wouldn't it? The widow Burke has turned many a head after her departure from the Yaxley household. Despite her period of mourning, rumour has it that the doors of her new townhouse are not as closely guarded as her family's honor would suggest. But tread lightly; her family is as ancient as their values are, er, traditional.

3. Gilderoy Lockhart: Ah, the man of the hour, our very own rising star! With his recent book launch, Gilderoy is indeed an appealing catch. A word of caution though, he's as elusive as the nargles! With his good looks and abundant charm, it's no wonder he is on this list. Just remember, dear readers, you may have to fight off a hoard of fangirling Hogwarts students to win his heart.

4. Alice Lestrange: Now, here is a woman who defines breaking the mould. Lestrange by birth, but certainly not by association. As an estranged member of the infamous Lestrange family, Alice holds a certain allure. Her work as an Auror adds a touch of danger to her appeal, but let's not forget that rebellious streak. Interested suitors, be ready for a challenge!

5. Regulus Black: With his aristocratic charm and studious nature, he's captured the attention of many. Head of the Black family and a researcher of the Dark Arts - scandalously riveting, is it not? The right partner could perhaps thaw his icy exterior. But beware, you might have to go through his grumpy house-elf first!

In the end, my dears, remember this is all in good fun. I'm but a humble scribe, detailing the magical drama as it unfurls. The heart wants what the heart wants, as they say. For now, keep your wands at the ready and your eyes on the prize. As always, I’ll be here, quill in hand, to record every tantalising detail.

Witch Weekly's Most Charming Smile Award winner, Rita Skeeter.

@benjyxfenwick @caitrionaebing @magicalmeee @alessandraesmee @regulusblacx

[benjyxfenwick]

☼ benjy & @caitrionaebing​

☼ location: ministry of magic, benefit gala

Towards the finale of what had seemed like an endless night, Benjy was in high spirits. It most certainly had something to do with the several cocktails and pints of beers he’d downed throughout the hours. But he also knew it had something to do with his date, Emmeline. She had been more of a delight than Benjy had ever thought. He had asked her to accompany him as a friend, but at some point in the night, after drinks and dances, the atmosphere had shifted. Moments of brief touches and gazes held for a second too long scattered the evening. Either Benjy or Emmeline would rush to fill these tense silences, before the silent question of what if could properly formulate. 

Until, finally, it happened: while escorting Emmeline out of the atrium, assuring she made it home safe, they’d kissed. The moment was unexpected yet welcomed, filling Benjy with the joy that had been drained out of him upon seeing his ex lover with another man. The thought of Caitriona was wiped from his consciousness, his drunken mind replacing it with the pleasant memory of Emmeline’s lips. 

Benjy turned in the opposite direction to begin his exit of the Ministry. His hands stuffed in his suit pocket, looking down to the floor with a bashful grin plastered on his face, he glanced up to check that he was taking the right door. Only for him to freeze in place.

@caitrionaebing​

[magicalmeee]

caitrionaebing​:

@magicalmeee​

Caitriona watched with a detached sort of curiosity as the boy seemed to go through some sort of crisis of confidence. She hoped, without any real amount of optimism, that he might leave her alone as a result, but she wasn’t terribly surprised when she had no such luck. It was hardly shocking that this Lockhart was too self-important to be insecure for very long. When he fixed his smile back on his face it was somehow even wider and brighter than it had been, and it made something behind Caitriona’s temples ache. She wondered idly if he was familiar with the concept of overcompensating, but she hardly thought he was intelligent enough to understand a word with six syllables.

Caitriona’s estimation of Lockhart’s acumen was reinforced by his answer to her question. She’d never been able to understand how there were people who didn’t think all learning was fascinating, but she had even less patience for people who lacked the willpower to follow through with a line of study that didn’t hold their attention. Caitriona wanted to know everything about everything, even social graces despite the fact that she found people generally tedious. This boy was certainly no exception, but Caitriona was rather caught. “Do you travel with an interpreter, then?” While she wasn’t necessarily curious, Caitriona did see an opportunity to possibly uncover the truth behind what she was sure must be fiction in the book.

.

“No, I haven’t needed to get any translators just yet.” Gilderoy answered, unaware of the skeptical, critical tone of the question. He half smiled, as if recalling a very fond memory. “You see, soon after I graduated and started my travels, I was introduced to the most fascinating professor errant.”

Gilderoy hesitated to tell her more, not because he sensed how little Caitronia wished to remain in conversation, but because most people he told about Professor Grunnion reacted badly. Gilderoy knew Grunnion had been accused of not having all the degrees he boasted of, and there was a story to do with dubious investments, and even one that he had disappeared his former wives- but Gilderoy had met him, and gone to the marshes of north eastern Europe with him... Grunnion was kind, welcoming, and willing to share his amazing knowledge with a boy who had misjudged how easy it was to become the dashing, adventurous star that he had set himself to. And he paid for the whole thing.

“I was taken under the wing of the esteemed Professor Ader Grunnion.” Gilderoy said, making sure to give the statement a tone of high pride. “Under his mentorship, I lived the content of the book in your hands, Miss. And we’re planning another adventure very soon!”

[benjyxfenwick]

☼ benjy & @caitrionaebing​

☼ location: ministry of magic atrium

In a matter of hours, the Ministry of Magic had become nothing short of a shit show. The arrests had made front page news and with it bringing a slew of reporters, Aurors, and the families and friends of those being questioned, making the atrium almost impossible to get through. The rush hour of the Ministry was nothing new, but the atmosphere of excitement mixed with fear certainly was. Benjy pushed his way through the crowd, cursing the Minister and Department of Magical Law Enforcement for having such little tact. Clearly they cared more about putting on a show of power than actually creating justice. Why else would they have arrested his fellow Order members? Why else would they have arrested her?

Benjy chased away the thought of Caitriona, but it was almost as if his mind had conjured her. There, in the midst of the crowd, as pretty and elegant as ever, was Caitriona. She was completely alone. Benjy instinctively turned to keep walking in the other direction, except he had caught sight of her, and never before had he seen that expression on her. The poise he knew her for was gone.

“Cait?” He called out to her over the noise of the atrium. Before he registered what he was doing, that it would be the first time they’d spoken in years, he moved closer and called her name again.