Shocking

[alt_lucius]

Never have I seen such a flagrant violation of the rules of sport as in to-day's Quidditch match. Had we not been there to witness with our own eyes, I should never have believed the report.

It is lucky for all concerned that Marvolo had the opportunity to end the match when he did; moreover that he was not harmed severely. The incident, naturally, has thrown all our plans into disarray. We shall be laying tea adjacent to the hospital wing, so that we may remain close by in case of need.

I have already ordered a full investigation to determine who hexed that bludger, you may be sure! I expect Minerva and Madam Hooch to have an answer before supper.

Comments

[alt_lucius]

It is vexing, I understand, son, but by nature of who he is, and the belief that at Hogwarts he is attainable, he is like to become a target. There are a number of people and organisations with an interest in seeing that he comes to harm.

As for your part, it was perfectly plain that you were doing what you could. Your beaters could have been more on the spot, as well - a fact sadly lost on your captain, it would seem. (Though not, I will note, on the opposing team's beaters.) It was a good instinct to impose yourself in lieu of being able to beat the bludger away. However, as unacceptable as it would have been to allow Harry to come to harm, it was equally distressing to your mother to see you attempt something so dangerous quite so often!

Nonetheless, you acquitted yourself well on the pitch, son, and we're both very proud of you.

[alt_draco]

Do tell Mother again that I'm sorry, but I had to do something.

Do you think that the bludger was maybe meant to just be a prank? Sort of like what you said about the person who claimed to open the Chamber of Secrets? Maybe it isn't really someone trying to hurt Harry this time, but justa person having a laugh in a really roundabout, thoughtless way?

[alt_lucius]

She knows, Draco. But knowing a thing, it does not always follow that one is happy for its necessity. You know that there are times when we all must suffer through actions we find distasteful.

Had the bludger been the work of a student, then I should be more likely to think it born of the same mischievous, if impolitic, spirit that prompted the Chamber message. Now I am not so sure. I suppose it depends, in part, on what your uncle finds when he examines the evidence.

[alt_narcissa]

Yes, dear, Mother knows what you were trying to do, and you were right to do it, of course. I just hate the thought of anything happening to you - or Harry, either of you. You flew brilliantly.

And our tea was rather scattered, wasn't it? Well, nevermind; I shall be certain to send a whole fresh jar of plum jam to get you through to the holidays.

Don't fret about the bludger, darling. Your father and uncle shall sort it all, I'm sure.