astridavery

[astridavery]

"They will soon learn one day, that their kind and ours simply do not mix. The sooner the better, I am often left astonished on how people think we can be forced together."

"Well, I will be prepared for when she does. Just let me know, anytime. My parents also want to send their congratulations. Father is disappointed to missed tonight, but he is way for work" she informed him. Though she knew that he would know exactly what she meant when it came to her fathers work. "And mother likes to stay home when he is way."

"No, not tonight. Solo evening for me, not that I mind. There is nothing worse than trying to make conversation with someone whom you have no interest in. So far, i have found myself fortunate enough that my parents do not wish to push the marriage matter."

Lucius was great that it was a Wedding where the quest list was questionable. At least he was around his people and he was grateful for that. "I can agree with that. I don't think I could handle another night of pretending a care." Not that he would be able to.

Azure hues fixated on the love of his life, though he only shows admiration for her. "She does. And carrying our child." He was proud that they would be starting a family.

He nods his head. "If there is anything we need, I'm sure Narcissa will start one of those baby registers." In knew in a few months their mother's would be hosting a baby shower. "That is kind of you." His voice remaining flat. "Did you come with anyone?"

[astridavery]

Astrid gave Bellatrix a sly side eye "Oh trust me, I don't expect a your welcome until I've proven my worth. After all, things like that need to be earnt."

She took a sip of her drinks, remembering the unpleasant interaction she had with Frank Longbottom, of course he had remained civil and polite, an interaction that other would deem normal and acceptable but for Astrid, it was the total opposite - just as it was with all their kind.

"He truly does know how to be an annoyance. It like he thinks he is entitled to everything he asks for. Does he now know that when we say bark then he barks?" she raised an eye brow. "That, and he does not seem to understand the importance of your work and time. It is a pitty really, that he one we have to endure and deal with. However, putting him off as long as possible is proving entertaining."

"It really is a shame that the ministry has become so blind and dim-witted, but as my father says, it won't take long before they see the true power within our world."

For all their years of teenage bickering, Bellatrix was glad to have reacquainted with Astrid Avery. The witch had a sharp tongue and took neither shit nor prisoners. It was a tame ruthlessness that she appreciated, though their relationship could have gone a very different way. Sometimes, as they sat in their monotonous little office wiling away the time with enough Ministry paperwork to make Bellatrix want to kill the nearest wizard, she wondered if Astrid knew what a lucky escape she'd had. These days, if Bellatrix truly loathed someone, they could very easily disappear - after a good, long turn at the sharp end of her dagger.

Snorting at her apt comments on the deficient male sex, Bellatrix was pleased to hear that her husband was proving satisfactory. Not that she'd expected any different. Rodolphus was a wild card, able to conjure both her murderous fury and sheer, unadulterated lust. He maddened her. But there was none more loyal to the Dark Lord, aside from herself. She would trust no one but her husband for many things. It seemed Astrid Avery had become one of those items.

"Glad to hear it, and I should say 'you're welcome', but let's save that for when you've risen through the ranks, hm?" Sparing the witch another shrewd stare, her blue eyes bristled brightly, anticipation wreaking havoc as she considered whether Astrid would prove herself useful. She suspected she would. The Avery witch was tenacious and not unskilled. But she had much to learn.

For once in her life, Bellatrix veered happily towards the topic of Frank Longbottom. How horrendous. Tilting her head to the side, she laughed more loudly than socially appropriate, drawing a few sidelong glances from their nearest companions. She gripped her glass, long nails scratching heedlessly against the crystal as she leaned forward and whispered. "One day, Astrid, he will beg for more than merely my time. They both will." They would beg for mercy. Filthy blood traitors, the pair of them. Her words swelling with far more than an empty threat, she pulled back and smiled direfully. "He sent me a memo before the holidays. I'll put him off for as long as possible. As for what the Ministry sees - well, the Ministry is a wreck."

[astridavery]

"They truly do, I imagine a lot of people tonight are impressed with what they have done. We both know that isn't an easy task. Especially for some in attendance, however, it is good to see the rightful people in this place. No forced mingling with those less fortunate. " she snarked.

"I must say, she looks ravishing tonight. You are one very lucky man. Please do pass my compliments on, that is, if I don't get to catch her myself."

"Are you prepared for your upcoming arrival? You simply must let me know if there is anything you need." It wasn't that Astrid thought they wasn't prepared, of course she knew that they would be, she simply wanted to be polite and offer any assistance if needed. "I would be more than happy to run some errands if needed."

Lucius was here to make the rounds, set up some meetings with those that would be beneficial to the cause, and make sure his wife was taken care of. Anything outside of that, was for his own value, like his conversation with Astrid. "I am enjoying myself. The Selwyn's always live up to expectations." He takes a sip of his drink. "Yes, Narcissa is out with her friends. You must say hello to her."

[astridavery]

Astrid had been enjoying the night so far, she was known for loving a good party too and of course, she was not one to turn away from potential drama. As much as parties like these ran smoothly, there was always one who failed to handle their drink. A result that was often entertaining in it's own right.

For now she had simply mingled among those who where in attendance. She had also taken a moment to gather some fresh air, as she arrived back in she couldn't help notice Augustus standing at the side lines, making her way next to him.

"Good evening, Augustus. I am certainly enjoying myself, though I am still awaiting the standard drama. You know as well as I do, it appears one way or another. " her eyebrows raised.

She took a sip of her drink, as she looked him up and down. She smiled. "I must say, you do know how to scrub up well." she complimented.

"How are you finding this evening?"

Where: Selwyn New Years With: @astridavery

Augustus was never one to turn down the opportunity to attend a party. If only because it tended to provide him entertainment from others. These sorts of things were rarely dull, and he hoped to have a front seat for whatever it may be tonight. He'd been surprised when Valeria had been bold enough to ask him to go as her date, but the boldness had been enough to make him tell her yes. He saw her across the room now, mingling with others as he stood near the bar, glass of scotch in hand. It was hard to miss Astrid as she wandered up beside him, striking in the shining gown she'd chosen for the evening. "Miss Avery." His eyes met hers as a smile curled the corners of his lips. "Enjoying yourself this evening?"

[astridavery]

"And you're the little boy that couldn't live up to expectation. Such a shame, your had greatness in you. At least those thought it. In the end, nothing but a simple failure. Please do send my love to your parents." she snapped back, flicking her face forwards.

Truthly Astrid did not know the true family dynamics of Sirus and his family, all she had to go on what the hearsay of others, how Sirius simply was not like them that had raised him. Not that she cared, but of course given the chance she'd always be the one to bite back when needed.

"Anyway, I don't see anything wrong with getting what I want." she smirked, he was right. She was snobby, spoilt to the core and Astrid had always get exactly what she wanted.

She move forward slightly as the que in front of her went down.

"And you act like a snotty princess, you get what you want, no changes there," Sirius grinned, his stance casual as he slid his hands into his pockets. This was another part of his pureblood life he didn't miss; all the people who cared so little for anyone outside their circle. While it wasn't a trait Sirius had completely let go of, he knew he was no where near as bad as others. He ordered his coffee, getting a muffin instead - and not very happy about it. He snorted a laugh as he joined the other like and he watched as she tapped a foot, glad she had a long wait in line.

[astridavery]

Rabastan was not thinking about achieving anything from this encounter beyond simply practising his work and gaining potential ammunition against Astrid Avery. He didn't expect kinder treatment. But he did anticipate respect, since his actions deserved it. His logic was straightforward. He was untainted by emotion. Each decision bore consequences and everyone must bear the results without complaint, for they were their own responsibility. In the same way, Astrid may choose not to gift that respect. But the consequence of such an unfair judgement would be dire; he would reject her completely.

After obliviating Henry, Rabastan asked him a few questions to gather how well (or not) he'd done with the charm. Then he secured him in the building so he wouldn't do anything stupid. He left with a spring in his step, very pleased by the obliviation, which was getting better every time he tried. There were fewer flaws this time. Henry had forgotten a little too much, but that hardly mattered.

Watching Astrid mess with her hair, he scoffed, entirely amused. But he said nothing, more content to engage with his own thoughts than with active conversation. The journey back to the castle wasn't nearly as eventful as Rabastan's journey out. He was pleased. He'd had quite enough excitement for one afternoon, and there would be yet more to come once they'd spoken with the headteacher.

As they paused beside the spiral staircase, he turned and arched an eyebrow. "I am not a traitor, Avery. I will tell no one. But don't ever underestimate me again. If you open your mouth, I will take revenge. You don't want to betray me." Then he smiled, utterly charming despite such a blatant threat. "But you're very welcome. Shall we?" Gesturing for her to ascend first, he followed behind.

End.

[astridavery]

Blake Lively

[astridavery]

Astrid had simply been people watching, whilst enjoying her drink of choose. It has always been interesting to her, to watch other mingle among another, she had come to learn it was a great way to get to know people without getting close, people often gave too much away without even realising it, especially in situations where their guards where down.

Her eyes shifting the Bellatrix as she took a space beside her, as always Bellatrix was straight to the point - something Astrid admired about the women she worked for.

"Truthfully, so far he is proving to be a great help. He has his expectations and takes no bullshit. I like it." she informed her, sipping on her drink.

"I am, however, certain there will be moments I don't like him. After all, he is part of the male species, and one way or another they eventually piss us off at some point." she laugh. "I prefer it that way, no pain no gain. There is no need or desire for him to go easy on me."

"Never the less. I would like to thank you, for putting me forward to him. I know not everyone is cut out for this. I also know you are not one moments like this, so I will simply leave it there. Nothing more than a simple thank you and aprication."

"Do amuse me though, is Frank Longbottom still begging for you time? I honestly do not know what the Ministry see in him, or even them."

Starter for: Astrid Avery @astridavery Where: the Selwyns' NYE party When: the beginning

Sidling beside Astrid, Bellatrix swept her dress aside with a flippant swish of her hand. The crimson gown brushed the floor and she narrowed her eyes at the other witch for a fleeting instant. "Has Rodolphus been helpful?" Getting straight to the point, Bellatrix never bothered to hide the truth - not when it suited her, anyway. Here among friends, she had no qualms about discussing darker affairs openly.

Raising her champagne flute to lips of equally bright red, she arched her eyebrows expectantly, awaiting Astrid's honest answer. Then she took a deep drink, downing a good large portion of the sparkling liquid and feeling it rushing directly to her head, just where she wanted it. What was the point in drinking, if not to get a little high?

"I won't be offended if you don't like him." The thought was amusing. Her stern glance morphed into something wryer, eyes snapping wider and a sly smile snaking her mouth. "Sometimes I don't like him, either. But I do think he could teach you well, if this is really what you want."

[astridavery]

Astrid had been enjoying the night so far, not that she had expected any different. The Selwyn's always did know how to throw a party. She mad spent most the evening mingling and mixing with others, it was the just the place she needed to be.

Her focus shifting once she heard Lucius greet her. "Lucius" she smiled. "Yes, I am. Though, it would be hard not too. I always find the Selwyn's parties entertaining. They never fail to let us down. How about you? Enjoying it so far?"

"And how the that lovely wife of yours? Please tell me she had joined you this evening?"

where: selwyn manor when: nye who: @astridavery

Narcissa had gone off to speak with one of her friends, leaving Lucuis to his own devices, meandering through the crowd to find one worth his time. Azure hues land on Astrid, a witch he had not spoken to in some time, making his way over to her. "Evening Astrid," a faint smile on his lips. "Are you enjoying yourself?

[astridavery]

Stopping the Hex, Astrid couldn't help but feel like Henry had got what he deserved, truthly if it wasn't for Rabastan he would have likely gotten away easier, she really was not in the mood to play his game. Plus, he had caught her off guard and without Rab's help she truly would have been in a muddle. She'd always be grateful, just wouldn't ever make it all that obvious to hi. Certainly he had earnt her respect more than anything.

She watched, as Henty pathetically tried to dodge his own wand, but he was too weak, too slow for Rabastan. It humoured her, the thought of your own want being the one to Obliviate you, even that couldn't remain truly loyal to the weasel.

The pair headed back to the castle, leaving Henry behind. They'd simply find a teacher, tell them their side of the story and allow them to deal with his rescue.

Astrid already looked the part, she was slightly battered, bloody, her robes covered in dirty. She had even yanked at her hair, making it look all messed up, an added look the her damsel in distress part.

Before they went to the head she turned to face Rabastan. "Listen, I want to thank you, for what you did back there. I owe you. However, if you ever tell a sole, I'll make your life hell again and deny all involvement. Okay? After all i do have an image to uphold too. "

Rabastan didn't agree with Astrid's running commentary, but at this point he really didn't care. He would enact his justice for them both regardless, and that would be the end of it. Order would be restored and he'd be able to sleep soundly in his dorm that night, knowing that the correct outcome had been achieved. But he certainly wouldn't object to showing her his new spells. As introverted as he was, he did enjoy an audience when it came to magical display, and it didn't hurt to have another set of eyes to provide critique. That was one thing he could rely on Astrid to provide without fail: criticism.

Her compliments went in through one ear and out the other. But he was pleased that she agreed to follow his plan. He didn't want to deal with her going rogue after all of this.

"That's enough, Avery. I'm getting bored."

Well, it was honest. Stepping forward, he all but brushed her aside and began with his spells, testing a good number on the unfortunate Ravenclaw. It served him right. It was his own fault for creeping around like a cockroach, thinking he could best his betters. Idiot. Most of the spells succeeded. But a few did not, and it took Rabastan several attempts before he conquered them triumphantly. He learned quickly, soaking up knowledge and experience like an avaricious sponge.

When he finally stopped, he turned to the witch and smiled broadly. "Alright, you should stop the Knee-Reversal Hex now. We can't take him back waddling like a penguin." While she did that, he tidied up the rest of the damage done by his spells, thinking all the while about how pleased his father would be to hear what he mastered. Already, he anticipated the next books that would be sent from home. He could barely wait to get his hands on them.

Taking the other wizard's wand, he pointed it directly between Henry's eyes and concentrated. His arm was as steady as steel. "Obliviate."

[astridavery]

Whenever her father was away on business, Astrid's mother relied on her more than anything for simply company. Today has been no different, she had barely finished work when Astrid had to run over to the bakery to collect her mothers list of goods she wanted for over the holidays. Normally, it would have been her father collecting instead.

She had no time, nor the patience to wait around, which is why when the door opened she took full advantaged to get ahead, no matter what. She paid no attention to the young man holding opening the door, for her it was more of an annoyance that there was even a que, let alone the lack of selection they had left.

She picked up what she could of her mother request, grabbing the lost Bakewell tart as she did. It wasn't until she herd a mutter behind her that she finally paid attention to the man.

She really was not in the mood for people today, or their petty complaints. Rolling her eyes, she kept her focus forward as she replied back to him "Well, you snooze you loose. Not my fault you frilled around getting here."

Crossing her arms across her body, she waited impatiently for the que to pay to go down. Her foot tapping against the hardwood flooring.

who: @astridavery

where: Pudding Lane bakery

After a long shift the night before, Sirius was lucky to even be awake at a time that was still considered morning. But he was, walking through the crisp morning air with one thing on his mind; the Bakewell tarts at the Pudding Lane Bakery. He was normally always working or sleeping, often missing the tarts before they sold out. Not today. Today he was a man on a mission. As he reached the shop he pulled open the door, about to walk in when someone pushed in front of him. Sirius just glared at the blonde head of hair from behind, following after her as they joined the queue.

He would have continued ignoring her if she hadn't ordered the last Bakewell tart from the display case. "Oh you're taking the piss," he muttered to himself, rolling his eyes.

[astridavery]

Astrid Avery - Attending the Selwyn New years Eve party.

[astridavery]

It hadn't taken Astrid long to see someone she knew, she had known Evan for a while and it had seemed like a lifetime since she had actually spoke with him.

"Can't a girl simply just come and say hello?" she pouted, playfully. "We both know it has been far too long. Unless, you truly want me to wish you Happy Holidays? If so, I will. Something just tells me you're not the holiday celebrating type."

She grabbed the barman's attention, requesting her standard go to drink when she attended. Her attention going back to Evan.

"My mother, however, is a huge fan of the holidays. Surprises people, but she's a sucker for it. I'm simply buying myself a little more time before I spend a few days with them." Astrid adored her parents, and she was close to her mother, it was just that sometimes, her mothers love for the holidays could become a little too much for Astrid to cope with. She loved seeing her mother so happy, she simply just didn't share the same amount of joy towards it as she did.

where: white wyvern who: @astridavery

"Miss Avery." Evan greeted the witch as she took a seat besides him, bold perhaps but enough to catch his attention. "To what do I owe the pleasure? Are you here to wish me happy holidays?"

[astridavery]

Astrid turned her attention to Rabastan, an evil smirk upon her face. "Oh I'm not going anywhere, as much as I would love to stand and torture the fucker, I feel I've done my part, after all we wouldn't be here if I hadn't. I won this battle a long time ago." she laughed. "Plus, you now have my attention. I'd love to see these spell of yours." she had intrigued her, a lot of what Astrid had learnt was not taught to them at Hogwarts, ever since she had got her wand, her father had find ways to teach her outside of Hogwarts.

"I agree with the plan, whatever it is. I'll play along."

Her focus shifted again to Henry, giggling as she watch him hobble around, attempting to fight of the pain. "You see Henry, from the moment you allowed my taunts to get to you, you showed how weak you was. I'm a bitch, we all know that. Hell, even Rab here knows that, but guess what!?" she questioned. "He can handle it. He has strength, and clearly he has power too." she had actually complimented Rabastan, as much as she did taunt him, she had to admit he handled it well.

"You maybe book smart Henry, but you have no idea how cruel the real world can be. Deep down you're weak, and you've shown that tonight."

Rabastan remained unaffected by Astrid's cruel mirth. He took no pleasure in other people's pain. But what he did enjoy, was the rushing thrill that came with seeing his hard-studied spells executed effectively. Watching the other boy's wrist snap like a twig piqued his excitement, spreading it through his expression with exquisite satisfaction. This magic felt divine. It was a tempting caress that he was all too willing to master. He was up to his eyes in dark magic. Poor old Henry would never stand a chance against him, no matter how many books he'd managed to memorise from the Restricted Section.

Her knee-reversal hex was a nifty trick. He didn't know it, and he made a mental note to ask Astrid about it if she could tolerate his presence politely once this was over. If she couldn't - well, that would be the end of any goodwill between them. He was painfully loyal. But even his devotion had limits. If she would shun him after this escapade, he would write her off for the imbecile he already thought she was.

But in the next moment, she offered an unexpected gratitude. Turning his stare towards her, he ignored the Ravenclaw as he hobbled around, seemingly not knowing which way was forward and which was back.

"I have spells to try," he told her without emotion. "You don't need to stay if you can't stomach it. But let's agree a story. He tricked you here and trapped you. When I arrived, he panicked and tried to obliviate us both. Unfortunately the spell went wrong - I can't do it properly yet, you see." And there was the rest of his plan; a little experimentation, then what would surely be a botched Memory Charm, cast with Henry's wand, of course. Everyone had to start somewhere, after all. Rabastan needed all the practice he could get with it.

[astridavery]

Cleary she had been a fool, given Henry the benefit of the doubt and hoping he'd walk way. How wrong she was, again. Much to her surprise she well and truly had underestimated both the men that stood in this room with her. Thankfully, Rabastan had surprised her in a good way, but fuck she'd know about it.

Truthy she just wanted to get back to the castle, part of her had felt humiliated enough, the other really did not want to have to explain the mess they'd be walking back into - more so with Henry hurt. No longer did she care.

"No, he isn't." her head titled to the side, her smile twisted. "I tried to be nice, to give you the easy way out."

Before she could act Rabstan had cursed Henry, the sound of his wrist snapping brought joy to Astrid's face. A sinister laugh escaped her lips as he yelled out in pain.

"Unfortunately for you Henry, my friend here isn't as patient as I am. Though, since you then tried to turn him against me also, my patient's have also ran out.

"Don't worry, you may live. Once we've had some fun." she pouted, taunting him as he yelled out in pain.

Raising her wand she performed a Hex onto him, one her father had taught her known as the Knee-Reversal Hex. Once more Henry screamed out in pain as his knee's twisted and turned to the reverse position."

She walked close to Henry, her hand lifting his head to face hers "And don't worry Henry, we won't be caught. After all I am a Avery, and my father my has taught me a little trick on how to hide cast spells from wands. Better still, how to place them upon yours. Pity you."

She walked off, standing next to Rabstan once more. "On this occasion I will thank you. Your master plan worked brilliantly" she said, her way to thank him for being her, as well as play along with the story he had created upon his arrival. "Do as you will, the play toy is no longer of amusement to me."

Rabastan was almost surprised by Astrid's submission. She'd never struck him as the type of witch to hide behind a wizard, yet here she was following his lead. Then again, he also thought she was a bit dim, so perhaps this shouldn't have shocked him after all. For a few moments, he mulled over these ideas, only half-listening to Henry as he rambled on. He didn't care why the boy had done what he'd done. He just wanted to practise his spells and get out of there with Astrid in tact. Angering the Averys by leaving their daughter to get cursed by a crazed mudblood wasn't on his agenda for today - or ever.

It was only when Henry started trying to turn Rabastan to his side, that he stirred and focussed on him completely. He was striking a raw nerve, made all the more aggravated by the fact that he was outrageously attempting to put them into the same category. It repulsed him. He would never align with a dirty-blooded stalker. Despite Astrid's teasing, there was no choice at all. He was loyal to a fault, even to family friends who thought him ridiculous.

"He's not walking away." Speaking quietly, he glanced at Astrid with a look of a young man whose mind would not be changed. He didn't understand how she could even think of allowing him to leave without consequence. Determination filled his eyes. Usually so cold and thoughtful, they now brimmed with a muted desire for retribution. Things had moved beyond merely wanting to try his curses, shifting towards something more noble. All actions bore results. Henry had now threatened Astrid and insulted Rabastan. He wasn't going to let him get away with it. "Though I won't mind if he drops his wand." And with that, he disarmed him, not with a simple Expelliarmus, but with a curse that snapped his wrist and caused him to throw the wand somewhere to his side as he screamed.

[astridavery]

Astrid was grateful for their meeting today, and she understood the importance of it looking natural, after all, they didn't need people becoming suspicious. She followed him, taking a seat where they had the privacy they need but also where they both could monitor anyone who got too close.

She knew there was no fooling Rodolphus, she would sit here and say exactly what she thought he would want to her, say everything that would be expect of one wanting to become a Death Eater. For Astrid, as much as she believed in their cause, she also had her own reason, personal reasons.

"My father" she told him. Quietening her voice she continued "My father currently still works for Dark the Lord, as you know. You may also know he is getting old, he is not as strong as he once was. He has been a faithful follower, and as you know, his legacy shines. I am the only Avery remaining, his legacy means more to me than anything and I can't let that end with him. I believe in the Dark Lords work, and we all know the order isn't going to remain quiet for long. Though my father has not taught me everything, he has taught me more than people realise."

Her tone was hushed but serious, she knew that her reasons may not be accepted by all, nor deemed good enough. For now, she was more focused on speaking her truth, believing that was better than trying to suck up to get her way.

"People may see this as a weakness, but I see it as a strength. For many, it would be an unexpected move on my part. People don't always see the spoilt, rich girl as Death eater material. That, is where I believe my strength will lie, simply the unexpected."

She remained focused on him, occasionally scanning the remove the ensure they are not overheard. "Truthly, I am not going to sit here and tell you exactly what you want to hear, I am here to suck up to simply get my way. I'm here to tell you my truth, why this is important to me, and why I know I can do it. The legacy of my family can not end with my father. That is my motivation, that is what will get me through anything you put my way. Plus, I'd love nothing more to be apart of putting those in the Order back in their place. ''

Bellatrix had told Rodolphus about Astrid Avery and how she had first approached her about mentorship but that she wasn't going to do it but that maybe he would. At first he laughed it off. What kind of mentor would he be? He was chaotic. But the more he thought about it the more he thought there should be more chaos. He could teach that. And if there was someone who truly wanted to be a Death Eater all the better. But he had to be sure she was the right type.

The Avery name was a good one. Sacred twenty-eight. Pureblood. Married into the right families. Known for having Death Eaters and being supporters. Astrid was off to a good start given her background but background wasn't everything. After all, look at Sirius Black and his dissention from his family. Rodolphus had to be sure. She wasn't a Death Eater of any kind yet, merely a supporter. She had a long way to go which meant Rodolphus had a long way to go.

He had told her to meet in Diagon Alley rather than Knockturn Alley to keep off any rumors of their actual reason for meeting. Though he hated the area at least there was the Leaky Cauldron so he told her to meet him outside on the corner. Upon his approach there she was, as ordered.

First order complete. Who knew how many more orders she had left.

"Astrid," he replied and cocked his head toward the entrance. They walked in and he walked to the back of the pub in a booth where he could see the entire place. All pleasantries aside Rodolphus ordered a scotch and turned to her. "Tell me why," he said in a hushed tone. He wouldn't say the words because he wanted to use as little of them as possible so as not to be overheard.

Rodolphus wasn't exactly the mentoring type. It wasn't a role he thought he would find himself in but there he was, having made the decision to mentor Astrid Avery.

[astridavery]

Rab's presence had surprised Astrid, though she tried to hide it from Henry. For a moment she wondered how he knew, and why he was here but it was clear the Lita must have blabbed, Astrid was just pleased it wasn't as teacher. However, it being Rab wasn't the most ideal situation either, given she had spent a lot of her time taunting him.

She was thankful, not that she'd ever truly show it. Lita had been right, this was simply a trap to try and harm her, even if she never did expect it to be Henry. The little worm had surprised her and not in a good way.

Once Rab freed her from Henrys charm she grabbed for her wand, hastily making her way next to her rescuer. She shot Rab a look, with a simple nod - her way of telling him she was ready to follow his lead. Astrid knew they had to take Henry down.

Henry spat words at them, speaking on how Astrid needed to be put her place, how cruel she had been to him, even tried to speak to Rab, convincing him to join his side, knowing all too well that Astrid had given him similar treatment.

Her focused remained on Henry, want pointed at him "Clearly this one isn't that smart. Come off it Henry, we all know this is a duel you're going to loose. Drop you wand, and walk away. That is only chance we are going to give you, refuse, and you simply won't be walking out of here."

It wasn't too difficult to get the information from Lita. Rabastan was almost disappointed. He wouldn't have minded trying different methods of persuasion. But apparently charm and the vague suggestion of physical threat was more than enough. It was precisely as he'd thought: Astrid was an idiot. He considered telling Professor Slughorn, since she was clearly about to get herself attacked - or worse. But upon trying, all Slughorn did was talk about Rabastan's father and how Rodolphus would surely soon be married. After a few failed attempts to interrupt him, Rabastan simply turned without warning and walked away, leaving the Professor watching his retreating figure with a look of immense amusement plastered over his jovial expression. Rabastan had no patience for waffling. He made a decision that was either very selfless (because despite how much he disliked Astrid, he didn't want her to come to harm) or stupidly selfish (because he had a great many spells that he had been meaning to test, and perhaps now was his chance). He believed in taking opportunities as they arose. So he followed, skipping Arithmancy and bemoaning the loss, because it was his favourite subject.

Unlike Astrid, his excursion from the castle was not so straightforward. He was nearly caught at several points, but at last he was safely on the path into Hogsmeade. Absently, he kicked a stone along the cobbles, shooting it through the Shrieking Shack's gate as he finally stepped in front of it. The clattering sound of rock against dirt was the only sound aside from the rustling of the trees, so he spent a few minutes circling the building and assessing the situation. There was no one else in sight and nothing of particular alarm. So in he went, broaching entry through what had once been a kitchen. No sooner had set foot on the dusty, broken tiles, an almighty crash resounded from upstairs and the sound of raised voices trickled down through the musty air. He took his time, standing and listening. Hearing only Astrid and a boy's voice, he had no fear and continued. He was confident in his own ability. Unless he was older, one school boy wouldn't be too difficult to overwhelm. Rabastan's knowledge was vast. He read and practised obsessively, ploughing through not only the school's books but also many sent from home. He'd take the risk and was excited for it.

Stepping quietly, he did rather well at being silent - until he passed a chair, which being poised on one end of a wobbly floorboard, toppled and fell as he stood on the other. The voices stopped. So he then pursued without bothering to be stealthy, giving up the attempt and no longer caring for it. Henry's face was not what he had expected to see. "You?" he said with a sneer, unintentionally echoing Astrid's earlier reaction. Wand extended, he stepped forward, cutting his stare between the boy and the girl. He knew what spell had whipped Astrid up against the wall. He knew, because he'd read that book, too. So he undid it swiftly, causing her to tumble, though this time her fall was cushioned - he placed a charm beneath her and turned his wand back to Henry, his arm steady and a thrill illuminating his youthful face.

"I thought Ravenclaws were supposed to be smarter than this, Henry. Did you really think she'd come alone?" She had, but that was beside the point. Henry didn't need to know she was a twit.