Keeping busy

[cocoaficionado]

It's a little more difficult finding amusing ways to occupy one's afternoons at Hogwarts as a teacher rather than a student. Now I know why my professors always looked so cross when they caught any of us sneaking about. It wasn't because we were breaking any rules; it was just because they weren't allowed to explore secret passageways or

Comments

[nymph_tonks]

Uhmmm... just a question, but where do you go on the full moon? Do you lock yourself in Filch's room or go out on the grounds....

Curious minds want to know.

[xcheckmatex]

He goes in his office! Don't you, Professor? I remember from third year.

[nymph_tonks]

Locked all alone in that office has to get rather.. well, lonely.

[cocoaficionado]

It does, but there's nothing for it. It's only one night out of every twenty-eight, after all.

[nymph_tonks]

But that's got to be no fun -- what with all the growling and the growing fangs and the fur...

You shouldn't have to be locked up in there all by yourself, don't you think?

[cocoaficionado]

It depends on whose point of view you're looking from. If you're listening to the Ministry, I shouldn't be holding a position at Hogwarts at all, let alone be allowed to transform in the vicinity of children, Wolfsbane or not. It's lucky my employer happens to be a powerful man who thinks otherwise.

None of it's any fun at all, but I've got to remember to count myself lucky. I've got Wolfsbane, a comfortable office to curl up in instead of that crumbling shack, and a good job surrounded (mostly) by people who accept me. It's a decent trade, being alone in an office for an evening a month for all that.

But you're right, it is lonely.

[nymph_tonks]

You've just got a furry little problem, its not as if you're a dementor. Everyone knows that you would never hurt the children -- werewolf or not.

Right! So, its lonely being cooped up all by yourself... What would you say if maybe a highly trained Auror -- perhaps someone on the Advanced Guard -- maybe, sort of sitting with you. To keep you company?

[cocoaficionado]

I would say it's a generous offer... but Tonks, the risks are gargantuan. Wolfsbane isn't a cure, but more like a tempering. It doesn't turn the wolf into a puppy. It just... means the wolf is less likely to wander off looking for fresh blood and more likely to stay put. It gives me better defenses against the wolf. It's still dangerous. I'm not sure I could in all good conscience let you do it.

Would you... really be willing?

[nymph_tonks]

Oh, pish posh! I get it -- big scary monster. Do not feed. Keep hands in vehicles at all times... Werewolf or not you're still Remus Lupin and I won't let you spend a night all owchy and alone again.

And its not like I'm giving you a choice. Expect me two hours before moon rise. I'll bring some tea and nibbles.

[cocoaficionado]

Sometimes I think you're a bit mad... but thank you, Tonks. Really. You're a great friend.

But you must promise me you'll be careful!

[nymph_tonks]

Don't worry about a think! We'll be as safe as houses.

Do you know how to play apparition tag?

[cocoaficionado]

Apparition tag?

[nymph_tonks]

er -- never mind.

[cocoaficionado]

Right you are, Ron! It's not a problem with wolfsbane, and it's certainly more comfortable there than anywhere else I could go.