1    Lukka Rookswood   203

2    Killian Koslarevic   207

3    Archibald Colquhoun    247

4    Consus Dechants    255

5    Enoch Marrow    257

6    Pip Hawtrey    258

7    Cecily Braithwaite    451

8    Arkin Owsley    462

Unsurprisingly, it was a very close race among most of the candidates, no doubt bolstered by last minute campaigning this past weekend in Hogsmeade. However, a number of the candidates were mired in controversy which likely caused a shakeup in results. In the last town hall meeting, Arkin Owsley took to one word answers and when asked how he would improve relations with Hogsmeade, he provided a rather defensive non-answer which likely did not sit well with many Hogsmeade citizens. It is not surprising either that Enoch Marrow, who is notorious for frequenting Knockturn Alley, had an uphill battle in this race. Barely squeaking out a victory over Pip Hawtrey, his philanthropic efforts over the weekend likely gave him the edge he needed to persuade voters that his reputation may have been ill-founded. Lukka Rookswood however enjoyed a near landslide victory, along with Killian Koslarevic who came in 40 points over their competition. 

Now that the election is concluded, the board will convene next month and begin hearing this term’s agenda. Based on the elected candidates, it is nearly certain that we can expect change to come with regard to the school’s relation to the outside world, though how quickly will remain to be seen.

[2024/01/13 15:08]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me cleared his throat as he began. “Welcome everyone to today’s Town Hall meeting. I am Nigel Stormcrow, and I will be your moderator for the afternoon. We will be hearing from each of the individual candidates, followed by a question-and-answer section. If you plan to ask a question please direct it toward a specific candidate. Candidates, you will each have two minutes to give your introduction. The candidates have arranged themselves in no particular order. Mr Owsley, we will begin with you. You have two minutes.”

[2024/01/13 15:09]  Esperanza Aitana Doharis: /me finally looks up from her notepad at each of the candidates and eyes each one critically, as if assessing their qualifications based on appearance alone. Her eyes linger for a moment on Lukka, but not on her face… on his tieless shirt, then marks something down on the pad in front of her with a look of mild dissatisfaction.

[2024/01/13 15:09]  Esperanza Aitana Doharis – OOC: his*

[2024/01/13 15:12]  Kilian Koslarevic: /me turns his head as someone joined next to him and there was a hint of a small smile seeing it was Pip. “Dobar dan.” he whispers to the man before quieting down to listen to the statements.

[2024/01/13 15:13]  Arklin Owsley: /me spared the greetings, instead proceeded ahead with the introduction, though he supposed none were that all necessary, addressing the room now.

 “My question is this: Should Hogwarts be governed by education experts, or should it be entrusted to those without a clue? Many candidates boast about their suitability based on their student years, but it’s often false, relying more on empty notions than facts. I wish the worthy candidates the best of luck, but few can truly guarantee it.

 I, Arklin Owsley, possess the necessary expertise, having served roles at Hogwarts and the Ministry of Magic, including Charms Professor, former Head of Slytherin House, and Head Examiner for the Wizarding Examinations Authority. Beyond my education at Hogwarts, my decision to become a Professor stemmed from a Daily Prophet article highlighting declining student exam standards. My mission then, and now, is to maintain high standards at Hogwarts and effect positive change. If you invest your minds in this idea, I would be seated

[2024/01/13 15:13]  Arklin Owsley: /me  the Board to provide the best education for Hogwarts students.”

[2024/01/13 15:13]  Consus Callyn Dechants: /me set his hands on the podium and breathed a soft sigh of contentment, a man in his element. A small nod was sent Cassius’ way when he saw him, a muted smile of approval on the Dechants patriarch’s face. When Arklin began to speak, he turned his head to hear him.

[2024/01/13 15:13]  Pip Hawtrey: /me smiles first to Garnet, but then he turns the smile onto Kilian, then he too listens to the others.

[2024/01/13 15:15]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me as Owsley finished, he clicked his watch to reset it. “Ms Braithwaite, we will follow with you.”

[2024/01/13 15:16]  Cecily Braithwaite: /me looked to Arklin and would nod as the man spoke, a strange one Cecily described the man to be. Looking around for a bit until she heard her name she would grin “Can everyone see me?” she said in a joking tone and would then clear her throat ” Magical beings, honored guests, and esteemed members of our community, I am Cecily Braithwaite. Today, I stand before you to declare my candidacy for a seat on the Hogwarts Board of Governors.

 Hogwarts, our magical alma mater, holds a special place in all our hearts. As a lifelong scholar and lover of magic, I bring a vision that bridges tradition and innovation. I see a Hogwarts where every student is not just taught but inspired, where the ancient echoes of enchantments meet the spark of curiosity.

 My commitment is firm, my passion unwavering. Together, let’s shape a Hogwarts that pioneers the next chapter in magical education. Thank you.” and with that she would bow her head with a bit of a grin indicating she was done speaking

[2024/01/13 15:17]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me nodded, and his watch clicked again. “Mr Dechants, two minutes.”

[2024/01/13 15:18]  Consus Callyn Dechants: /me stood at the podium smiling like a man just as comfortable standing before a crowd as he was sat at peace in his own living room. Patient and polite, he waited for the word to pass to him before speaking. “Before I speak I would like to extend my gratitude to you the parents who show your devotion to your children beautifully by being here  today. Moreover I would like to thank those young people among you for whom it would be so easy to simply leave Hogwarts forgotten behind you and race ahead, yet you choose to care. Thank you.”

 Consus bowed his head with such humility and grace that one would almost have to wonder what sort of dagger-tongued monster he’d married to make the children he had.

[2024/01/13 15:18]  Consus Callyn Dechants: /me started anew. He spoke fast and with conviction, milking every second he had. “Hogwarts to me stands side by side with the Ministry as the most important places in our country. As a boy I roamed those same halls I now send my three daughters to for most of every year.” His face turned grave. “That is why it shakes me to know that it has become a place where two innocent children can be killed within only a few months of one another. Why it shakes me that it has become a place where Basilisks can roam the halls for months petrifying our children before decisive action is taken. A place where curses blot out the sun and plunge the castle into deadly cold, and a thousand other horrors that I could spend the whole afternoon reminding you of. And what can we parents do while our children live under siege? Nothing but sit and hope that our son is not the next Arthur Letsworth and our daughter not the next Almeda Peyroux. What I believe in is a better, safer Hogwarts. One where families have greater access to th

[2024/01/13 15:18]  Consus Callyn Dechants: /me  loved ones, where threats are dealt with quickly and decisively and our children are free to focus on what they’re supposed to be focused on; Learning.”

[2024/01/13 15:20]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me was about to give the time warning just as Consus finished. His watch clicked again. “Mr Rookswood, you have two minutes.”

[2024/01/13 15:21]  (no name): /me As it was his turn to introduce himself, Lukka flashed his most winning smile around at the crowd. “Good afternoon, it’s a pleasure to be here. My name is Lukka Rookswood, a Ravenclaw Alumni and resident of Hogsmeade, where I’ve also owned and operated a small Potions supply shop for the last two and half years.” He glanced around, his expression growing more somber as he continued, “Living and working in the shadow of Hogwarts through the worst of the Grecession, I was able to witness first hand the effect that this had on the lives of children going to the school. Being a father myself, I imagined how I would want my son to be helped were he old enough to attend school, whether times were good or bad. These students would come down to my shop on Hogsmeade day, and many of them would tell me their good news, their gossip that they just had to tell /someone/,” he grinned, before it faded, “But also, their fears. Fears about money, their grades, their uncertainty in their futures, and even.. death.” He gave a pointed nod to Consus as reflected his statement.

 He straightened up, resting his hands on the podium. “Before ever even considering the possibility of joining the Hogwarts Board of Governors, I have been involved in making Hogwarts a better place for students. From donating textbooks, purchasing ingredients gathered by students – whether I needed them or not – to acting as a judge in the Brew Off potions competition, and participating in the Summer Work program. My motivation is thus; If elected into a position as one of Hogwart’s Governors, I will make it my mission to make Hogwarts the best possible place, both in standard of living and education, for not only my child, but for your children, and all future generations of Wixen.”

[2024/01/13 15:22]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me clicked his watch again. “Mr Colquhoun, two minutes.”

[2024/01/13 15:23]  Aisling Rose Opal Colquhoun (AislingRoseOpal): /me listens to each of the people speak then turns to listen to her husband..for about the 100th time give his introduction

[2024/01/13 15:24]  Archibald Colquhoun: /me adjusted his spectacles and placed his hands gently on the podium. He was clearly used to speaking in public, and certainly with a Ministry crowd. “Good afternoon, and thank you very much. My name is Archibald Colquhoun, Senior Assistant to the Minister and owner of Flourish and Blotts.” He had a certain way of commanding his time. It was clear yet calm, professional and yet just a little soothing with his refined Morningside tones.

 “Hogwarts is a place of both tradition and innovation. It is a place which allows freedom and creativity, but also requires rules and good governance. It is a place of beauty and imagination, but also careful thought and analysis. Where else do you find somebody who embodies those things than in an individual who is young, and yet broadly experienced.

 That is what I offer you in my candidacy. I am a recent student and former Head Boy, and so I understand the current school experience. But I am also a senior civil servant, a business owner, a family man, and the manager of a  estate. And so I humbly offer that experience on the ballot, as somebody who will balance old and new, and bring insights from many spheres of life into the management of the school. Thank you.” He nodded with his distinctive Scottish bourgeois courtesy and confidence.

[2024/01/13 15:25]  Esperanza Aitana Doharis: /me clicks her pin and writes down a couple more things in her notebook after listening to a handful of the candidates.

[2024/01/13 15:26]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me nodded, then looked up toward the end of the row. “Mr Hawtrey, your two minutes.”

[2024/01/13 15:26]  Dominik Katzen: /me kept store of his notes into his mind palace as he listens to each one presenting.

[2024/01/13 15:27]  Pip Hawtrey: /me stepped up and looked around, smiling with a wide but polite smile, a familiar smile that was often on his face. “For those who may not know me, I am Pip Hawtrey. I work in the Department of Magical Games and Sports, recently known as Lark Rosewood’s assistant, prior to that I was a Professional Quidditch player. However, before any of that I was someone who was raised and grew up with my parents who also fostered other children, usually muggles, but it opened me up to seeing struggle in others that a lot of children do not see. A belief I have adopted is that no matter what cards you are dealt in life, education can change everything, especially good education. This is my prime motivation to run today.”

 Here Pip took a slow breath, “My main focus will be the continuation of all school-age children being given a chance to a full and safe education regardless of their situation, and ensuring the education they are getting is top of the line, with professors and staff that can be counted on.

[2024/01/13 15:27]  Pip Hawtrey: /me  Additionally, Hogwarts, as amazing as it has been for many of us, has had its ups and down where safety is concerned, as well as some tragedies. I wish to attempt to find ways to build on what they have already and see if we can make it even better.”

[2024/01/13 15:28]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me nodded toward the end of the row again. “And Mr Koslarevic, we finish with you.”

[2024/01/13 15:30]  Kilian Koslarevic: /me listens to the other candidates and for a moment he remained quiet, thoughtful. Once he spoke, it was with a Croatian accent, though to many it may just sound slavic. His hazel eyes wandering over the crowd. “Dobar dan. I am Kilian Koslarevic, Hufflepuff Alumni and currently an Employee of the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures. I am not a politician, and don’t indulge in speeches or believe I’m better than others. But what I am is a former student of Hogwarts who has seen battles, wars, unfit professors being in a place that we thought to be safe, capable professors removed that could have prepared us for the world. It was that place that taught me the most valuable lessons including what should not happen to our children.”

 He paused briefly before he continues. “What I am is a father of a student who is going through the exact same things that I thought we eradicated since then and more. I do not wish the students of the future to face the same story repeated. I am willing t

[2024/01/13 15:30]  Kilian Koslarevic: /me  put my own life on the line to protect the children and the staff of Hogwarts and have done so.” He gestured to his cane that was a direct consequence of that action.

 “So while I may not be a politician or an educational expert, I am invested in and passionate about assisting to change things to make them better for our children and those to come, ensure their education and safety by the means that are at my disposal, whichever they may be. And I believe that the board should be made up not only by one type of person, not only logic, not only education, not only heart… but by all of them, to strike balance for those affected by the board’s decision. Once Hogwarts is your home, Hogwarts will always be your home, no matter in which capacity. Thank you.”

[2024/01/13 15:33]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me clicked his watch once more and began a soft round of applause that would die out after a moment. “Thank you all. With that, we will move to the question-and-answer portion. If you have a question please raise your hand and wait to be called upon. Candidates, you will be given one minute to answer the question posed to you.”

[2024/01/13 15:34]  Esperanza Aitana Doharis: /me raises her hand.

[2024/01/13 15:35]  Esperanza Aitana Doharis: /me raises her hand while quietly stating, “I have a question for each candidate, if that is allowable, sir,” directed toward Nigel.

[2024/01/13 15:36]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me looked over at Esper, and considered it briefly, then nodded. “Perhaps if there is time. For now, please direct your question to one specific candidate. You may ask your question.”

[2024/01/13 15:38]  Cecily Braithwaite: /me gaze shifted from NIgel to Esperanza

[2024/01/13 15:40]  Esperanza Aitana Doharis: /me grins surprisingly wolfishly for her pretty features, and turns her gaze toward Arklin. “Mr Owsley, your qualifications are certainly undeniable,” she begins as she lifts a newspaper from her notebook. “Yet here in my hand I have a Daily Prophet article from November 26th, 2026. In it, your department is accused of having lost a great number of NEWT and OWL scores, and then seemingly threatening a journalist who was reporting on the matter. Can you please provide clarification on this event, as well as, explain how you would prevent such loss of important records in the future in the capacity of a Hogwarts Board Governor?”

[2024/01/13 15:41]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me looked back at the candidates, “Mr Owsley, one minute.”

[2024/01/13 15:42]  Cecily Braithwaite: /me looked from Esperanza her eye quickly snapped to Owsley, giving the man a few blinks.

[2024/01/13 15:42]  Archibald Colquhoun: /me looked down for a moment. He was probably re-gathering his expression after that question. He glanced up with his calm, diplomatic, neutral tone.

[2024/01/13 15:42]  Consus Callyn Dechants: /me turned his head towards Owsley with a glint of amusement in his eyes. Doharis was clearly not pulling her punches.

[2024/01/13 15:42]  Aisling Rose Opal Colquhoun (AislingRoseOpal): /me looks over to Owsely as she had been one of those that scores got lost and waits for his answer

[2024/01/13 15:44]  Lukka Rookswood: /me ‘s brows raised at Esperanza’s question, leaning forward to look curiously toward Owsley as well. He was less experienced at looking stoic or neutral than those already in politics. He was glad he’d graduated before that incident!

[2024/01/13 15:44]  Kilian Koslarevic: /me watched Esperanza as she spoke, his face not giving away any thought he may have to bringing the subject up. Just briefly he glanced to Owsley before watching the audience calmly.

[2024/01/13 15:47]  Dominik Katzen: /me turns his attention to the candidate’s answer to the well researched question posed by Doharis.

[2024/01/13 15:47]  Cassius Dechants: /me looked over the candidates and could see anyone one of them in the roll, though he felt odd they many of them boasted being a father, then he was just so unsure of that that even meant. He wouldn’t dare ask it though, it would have been too intrusive of a question, so he just sat there listening.

[2024/01/13 15:47]  Cassius De La Mer: /me looked over the candidates and could see anyone one of them in the roll, though he felt odd they many of them boasted being a father, then he was just so unsure of that that even meant. He wouldn’t dare ask it though, it would have been too intrusive of a question, so he just sat there listening.

[2024/01/13 15:48]  Pip Hawtrey: /me fidgeted subtly, trying to keep himself as still as possible, but he was a little nervous, still, the polite but small smile did not leave his face whether he was speaking or not.

[2024/01/13 15:48]  Arklin Owsley: /me knew he’d never hear the end of those bloody exam results. “As I’ve stated multiple times, such matters were out of my control. From my understanding, these results were received, so, is it true to say they are lost at all?” He questioned in return. “There were no threats. Just tantrums from the reporter in question. The matter at hand is baseless accusations that are proven untrue.” The multiple Ministry investigations proved nothing. “The exam results are not under the view of the Board to my knowledge. That remains between the Ministry and the school.”

[2024/01/13 15:48]  George Macauley: /me with an air of nonchalance that only the truly self-assured (or oblivious) can muster, surveyed the room through a haze of pipe smoke. He seemed utterly indifferent to the irritated glances thrown his way as he sprawled across the back seat behind Dechants. Indeed, in George’s world, being the subject of others’ annoyance was almost a badge of honour. “Hullo, Chanty, old boy. You’re looking a little worse for wear.”

[2024/01/13 15:50]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me kept a neutral expression as Owsley answered, and when he finished an assistant would move about the room to call on the next person.

[2024/01/13 15:51]  Esperanza Aitana Doharis: /me nods her head with a slight smirk, as if she expected the question to be dodged, then looks over toward Nigel with yet another lift of her hand. “If time will not allow for all candidates, then there is just one other candidate I certainly want to get my question in to, sir.”

[2024/01/13 15:52]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me nodded, “You may ask your question.”

[2024/01/13 15:53]  Cecily Braithwaite: /me gaze a side eye to Owsley a swallow was given but hidden by the blouse’s collar as she she looked to Esperanza

[2024/01/13 15:54]  Lukka Rookswood: /me pursed his lips and raised his brows at Owsley’s answer, leaning back upright and glancing around at a few audience members as though to say, ‘Uh huh, sure.’ He waited to see who Doharis had dirt on next.

[2024/01/13 15:55]  Esperanza Aitana Doharis: /me dips her head thankfully toward Nigel, and then turns her gaze toward Consus. “Mr Dechants,” she begins, leaving a heartbeat’s pause for dramatic effect. “Your experience in matters of law and parentage are undeniable. However, by your wording, it could be seen by those close to the deceased students that you are running on a platform based on their dead names. Would you please take a moment to explain how you would go about making Hogwarts more safe where others have been unable to?”

[2024/01/13 15:56]  EsperDoharis: where you seem to believe others have been*

[2024/01/13 15:56]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me gestured when Esper finished speaking. “Mr Dechants, one minute.”

[2024/01/13 16:01]  Multi Purpose Room: whispers: James Croft (generalapathy) is accioing objects..

[2024/01/13 16:01]  Multi Purpose Room: whispers: Rezzing complete!

[2024/01/13 16:02]  Consus Callyn Dechants: /me furrowed his brows gently and gave a small nod at the question’s finish. “I would not agree that my platform is based on their names specifically Miss Doharis; I mention them because they are the ones on whom the sword of Damocles that hovers above all of our children have most recently fallen. I mention them because they are an example of what /can/ happen to our children while they are supposed to be safe.” He set his hands on the podium. “I believe communication, partnership and legislative reform around Hogwarts as an institution are key to their protection. It is my belief that the Ministry, especially the D-M-L-E must have greater access to the school and that communication with the outside world must be made more easily available to our students.”

[2024/01/13 16:04]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me nodded, then looked around. “Unless there are any other questions, I believe we will have time for you to pose your question to all candidates, Ms Doharis.” He would give a brief pause for any other hands to go up.

[2024/01/13 16:06]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me not seeing any other hands, he would gesture. “Ms Doharis, you may ask your question.”

[2024/01/13 16:06]  George Macauley: /me raised his hand languidly.

[2024/01/13 16:06]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me put his hand up, “Ah, sorry, one question in the back, sir?”

[2024/01/13 16:07]  Esperanza Aitana Doharis: /me looks around the room for a moment after eying each candidate like a journalistic predator, waiting to see if anyone raised their hand. Upon one being raised, she looks back and listens carefully.

[2024/01/13 16:10]  George Macauley: /me cleared his throat. “Yes, question for all. Do you endorse the introduction of a course in Advanced Thaumaturgical Tax Eva… Avoidance? An essential skill for any budding wizard of reputable family. And while we’re at it, how about competitive broom polo? And, just for the sake of the children, might we consider lowering the drinking age to something more appropriate, like, say, thirteen? Merlin knows I wasn’t the only one who sneaked out to Hogsmeade to get bladdered in the middle of the night…” He paused to wink pointedly at Lukka “- and frankly, now I’m older and wiser, I think it’s quite dangerous.”

[2024/01/13 16:13]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me shook his head, “The question, or questions rather will be stricken as they do not follow the prescribed format. The format is one question per person, to a specific candidate. Are there any other questions?”

[2024/01/13 16:13]  Consus Callyn Dechants: /me looked over at George as he rinsed off his question, the tired look of a man who hadn’t expected any better on Dechants’ face. His gaze lingered there for a pregnant moment, then shifted to Nigel.

[2024/01/13 16:14]  Esperanza Aitana Doharis: /me raises her hand after an exasperated sigh toward the previous questions.

[2024/01/13 16:14]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me gestured again, “Ms Doharis”

[2024/01/13 16:15]  Lukka Rookswood: /me looks from Esper toward the raised hand, brows lifting as he recognized another former classmate. Though hearing his question, his shoulders stiffened, and he did his best /not/ to look like he knew George Macauley. He looked down and shuffled papers, relieved that Nigel enforced the format, or else he would have to have admitted to paying taxes.

[2024/01/13 16:15]  Aisling Rose Opal Colquhoun (AislingRoseOpal): /me hearing the voice of the person asking the question looks to her husband and  just shakes head some and sighs. then nods as the questions are not allowed.

[2024/01/13 16:15]  Cecily Braithwaite: /me blinked to the man and spoke under her breath “Students drinking at thirteen?” mimicking the man’s comment

[2024/01/13 16:15]  Kilian Koslarevic: /me ‘s hazel eyes move to George in the back, his brow barely twitching but there it was, minimally. He could have easily answered this in a split second but when it turned out they were not actually going to answer he turned his eyes away from the man moving to Esperanza again

[2024/01/13 16:15]  Dominik Katzen: /me wrinkles a brow in confusion. Maybe he thought the age thing already happened. He shrugs and strikes it from his memory palace since it won’t be answered.

[2024/01/13 16:16]  Pip Hawtrey: /me frowned slightly after hearing the question, beginning to think up an answer before he heard Nigel, so instead he held onto the sides of his podium instead, letting out a breath.

[2024/01/13 16:16]  Archibald Colquhoun: /me looked rather pleased that he did not have to respond to requests to break the law, and looked calmly towards the next hand – who was seemingly the panel interrogator today.

[2024/01/13 16:17]  Esperanza Aitana Doharis: /me dips her head once more toward Nigel in a thankful manner. “I will save my questions for the remaining five of you for next time, so I hope you all look forward to seeing me again,” she begins with the most pleasant of smiles. “This next one is therefore for all of you: With Europe more and more descending into conflict and recently coming out of the Grecession, what are your thoughts and feelings on the matter of Goblins and Werewolves being allowed into Hogwarts as students?”

[2024/01/13 16:18]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me nodded, “Ms Doharis’ question will be permitted as it was agreed on prior, and Mr Koslarevic we will begin with you this time. You have one minute.”

[2024/01/13 16:18]  George Macauley: /me sighed and slapped his thighs as he made to get up. “Well then, I shall take my leave. To the Hog’s Head! There’s a firewhisky with my name on it, and perhaps a crowd more appreciative of my visionary ideas.” But he paused by the door when Esperanza spoke, hovering a little longer to listen to the answer to that one.

[2024/01/13 16:22]  Kilian Koslarevic: /me looks to Esperanza and considers the question. “One of the things in my time as Hogwarts that stood out to me was not only the acceptance to those that are different, but the education of all students about these differences that lead to a better understanding of each other. As long as a student is a Wix they should be permitted, no matter what kind of mix they are. Be it Goblin, Werewolf.. or if we think further Veela. If we start to exclude one group, the next will follow and it will dangerously fast descent into a human only elitist mindset that in my eyes is dangerous. The decisions adults made leading towards the Grecession, should not punish the children who can learn to do better and change the future. We should not fear what is different, but find strength in those differences and utilize them to change for the better.”

[2024/01/13 16:23]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me nodded, “Mr Hawtrey, one minute.”

[2024/01/13 16:25]  Pip Hawtrey: /me let out a quiet sigh as he considered his own answer, and this time he decided to keep it simple and short, “As I said in my opening statement, my goal is to see that all children and potential students are given a chance at education regardless of their situation, and in this case, regardless of species or infection. My feelings and thoughts follow this. I do not care about blood status, skill level, who may or may not have been infected, or species. Each student deserves their chance. Denying them that or denying them a chance at a good future could risk forcing a very different path for them to end up going down.”

[2024/01/13 16:26]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me glanced up toward the candidates again. “Mr Colquhoun, one minute.”

[2024/01/13 16:31]  Archibald Colquhoun: /me glanced sideways to the two contributions. When it reached his turn, his shifted his hands and responded in the calm manner in which he often had to address political issues. “I have little to add. The policy as it stands is adequate and sensible. Those who have mixed-Goblin heritage are Wixen by law, and it is inappropriate for the School to exclude them. Indeed, I see no reason other than some petty collectivistic ignorance which would lead to such a policy. Full goblins cannot study at Hogwarts for much broader political reasons, which are not within the control of the Board of Governors, so I see no practical change in that situation.

 With regards to werewolves, it is important to look at evidence as well as principle. Dangers posed to students by werewolves have come entirely from *outside* the school. The idea of removing student werewolves from the school, thereby placing them in a disorderly situation where they can be exposed to nefarious influences, is the height of stupidity. Within the school

[2024/01/13 16:31]  Archibald Colquhoun: /me  they are not only accepted within the wizarding community, but their condition can be appropriately managed for the safety of others.” He looked to his right for the next answer.

[2024/01/13 16:32]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me nodded, then gestured. “Mr Rookswood, your answer”

[2024/01/13 16:33]  Lukka Rookswood: /me felt he should have figured this sort of question was coming. He glanced briefly toward Kilian when he mentioned veela, before looking back out at Esperanza and the rest of the crowd. “No person choses the circumstances of their birth,” he began, “Nor does anyone volunteer for a life-affecting curse. /Especially/ children. A child who is half goblin and half wixen, who displays magical capability, /is/ a wixen, and must be afforded the same education offered to all wixen. As for werewolves, I have personally known many fine people afflicted with the curse, my friend and neighbor, Persephone Vitrac, for example.” He had to name-drop his famous friend who had lots of fans, obviously.

 “Hogwarts has always made accommodations for werewolf students that have been effective for centuries, many werewolf students have gone through school without ever even needing to ‘come out’, so to speak. To be perfectly frank,” he said, waving a hand, “If people are afraid of these /children/, wouldn’t they rather have them

[2024/01/13 16:33]  Lukka Rookswood: /me  the halls of this hallowed institution, where they can be /guided/, growing to have good values, an understanding of their powers, and learning to work and empathize with the children surrounding them? Isolating these youths would only serve to create a class of citizens who /feel/ othered, which is, historically, a bad move.”

[2024/01/13 16:34]  Cassius Dechants: /me placed his hand on his chest, moved by the show of their support.

[2024/01/13 16:34]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me looked up toward the candidates again. “Mr Dechants, your answer”

[2024/01/13 16:35]  Consus Callyn Dechants: /me set his hands back on the podium and gave a small nod as his name was called. “It was Goblinkind’s decision to resign from our world and in so doing rob us – that may be inflammatory, but I will not stop calling it what it was – of all that they could grab. A decision was made that we would allow them to ‘gretreat’ as they willed, and we lost a great deal letting them go. I find the idea that full goblins should be allowed to benefit from our schools and wield our wands after filling our backs with knives /ridiculous/.” Stern and serious was his face when he finished, but it softened on the next subject. “Werewolves, on the other hand, are people much like us struck by a terrible affliction. One that most of them never asked for nor wanted. I am proud to say that we live in a world much more accepting of Werewolves than the one of my youth, and I believe it is the Board of Governors’ duty to protect and serve Werewolf students same as they would any other, providing their physical needs of medicine and

[2024/01/13 16:35]  Consus Callyn Dechants: /me  full-moon shelter as well as protecting them from persecution by educating those around them so they do not needlessly feel unsafe around their condition.”

[2024/01/13 16:36]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me nodded, “Ms Braithwaite, your answer.”

[2024/01/13 16:36]  Cecily Braithwaite: /me raised her head as she listened to the question coming from Doharis, Hearing Nigel’s time for her and nodding to the other’s response the smaller woman began to speak.

 “I appreciate your concern regarding the broader magical world and the recent challenges we’ve faced. In times of uncertainty, it becomes even more crucial for institutions like Hogwarts to embody inclusivity and understanding.

 When it comes to Goblins and Werewolves attending Hogwarts as students, I firmly believe in the principles of equality and education for all magical beings. Hogwarts should be a haven where every individual, regardless of their magical heritage, feels welcomed and valued. It is through fostering an environment of acceptance and cooperation that we can collectively work towards a more harmonious magical community. I am committed to ensuring that Hogwarts remains a place where diversity is celebrated, and every student has the opportunity to flourish. rather then feel as if they need to worry about others treating them a certain way due to other’s actions”

 As she finished speaking she took off her glasses and looked to Owsley then turned her attention back to her glasses which she started to clean, once she was finished she would placed the wide framed glasses back onto her face.

[2024/01/13 16:37]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me nodded, gesturing to the end of the row. “And Mr Owsley, your answer”

[2024/01/13 16:38]  Arklin Owsley: /me was not a creature-favored man and could care less for the question posed; he did not give his opinion but rather a blatant statement. “By the sounds of it, I hear basilisks are allowed entry to the school.”

[2024/01/13 16:39]  Dominik Katzen: /me perks up to the true voice of reason as the old lady speaks up from her tall stool.

[2024/01/13 16:39]  Esperanza Aitana Doharis: /me smiles mischievously at Owsley, as if that was exactly the answer she expected. So she looks down at her notebook with another click of her pen and writes some things down, seemingly satisfied.

[2024/01/13 16:40]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me waited a long moment as Owsley gave a very brief statement, and when he didn’t continue asked, “Are you yielding your time Mr Owsley?”

[2024/01/13 16:42]  Arklin Owsley: /me a simple nod was given in return to Nigel.

[2024/01/13 16:46]  Nigel Stormcrow: /me nodded, “Very well. In that case I would like to thank you all for coming.” He would again lead a brief round of applause for the candidates. “Please note the schedule change for our next Town Hall, which will be held on the 27th of January at 11am. This room will remain open for the next hour as well if you would like to stay and chat, so don’t feel rushed out.” With that he stood and began to gather his things.

——————

27/1/2024

[2024/01/27 11:07]  Alice Hawkins: /me waited until 2pm, and then spoke up. “Good afternoon everyone! I am Alice Hawkins and I will be your moderator today. The format of today’s debate will be opening statements, followed by a question and answer portion. Questions today have been submitted and will be selected at random. If you have more questions there are parchment and quills under your seats, please write them down and pass them to me. We have already heard statements from all of the candidates except for Enoch, so at this time we will go to him. Mr Marrow, you have two minutes.”

[2024/01/27 11:09]  Kilian Koslarevic: /me turned his attention to Enoch as he was given time. He did not know the man personally but he had seen the posters and he very much knew his daughter. Of course that did not mean anything when it came to the man’s character. Quietly he rested ever so slightly on his cane.

[2024/01/27 11:13]  Enoch Marrow: /me nodded his head thankfully to Alice. “Thank you, Miss Hawkins.” Now his gaze turned to those seated behind her. “My name is Enoch Marrow and there are many of you I don’t recognise. I know what the papers would have you believe of me, that I’m a criminal scrambling for power, but I stand before you today as a parent, eager to see change in an establishment that has already shown my daughter… and your daughters and sons as well, an unending amount of danger. I stand before you as a representation for other parents who have seen these threats and received not so much as a letter of explanation. I stand here, as a representation of change, if you would all have me. It is time that the Board of Governors have more people like me, parents, rather than politicians, who want to see what is best for our children, who want to be involved. People who know the working class and what their children go through, not just the powerful from the upper echelons who leadership are afraid to upset. And I hope to convince  those of you who disagree, or might be unsure that it’s you and your children’s best interests that I hold at heart.”

[2024/01/27 11:17]  Alice Hawkins: /me picked up her parchments as Enoch finished. “Thank you Mr Marrow. We will now go to our questions, and as a reminder for anyone just coming in you may submit more questions to me at any time, there is parchment and quills under every seat.” She cleared her throat. “Our first question is for Mr Owsley. In your opening statement at the last Board of Governors meeting, you mentioned that part of your qualifications stems from serving as the Professor of Charms at Hogwarts. And yet, there are allegations of misconduct, such as Memory Altering Magics, that became severe enough for students and parents to demand your removal as Professor. Much time has passed since then, so can you explain why or why not those same people can put their trust in you now? You have one minute to respond.”

[2024/01/27 11:24]  Arklin Owsley: /me was mostly absent in mind after the last debate; still, these questions always put a rise to the man. “Isn’t that the point in allegations? Purely spectacle with no fact. If facts were true, would, at the time, The former Headmistress Hannah Fischer offer me a position back at Hogwarts?” Was that even truth? “Let us not waste time speculating on the past. As the man over there said so correctly.” He pointed to Enoch. “You cannot rely on the papers and other nonsense.”

[2024/01/27 11:26]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded and moved on to the next question. “Mr Marrow, you seem to be a popular man among certain circles of people, yet most will know that you work out of Knockturn Alley in a job position that is fairly… open ended, shall we say. What would you say to the parents and alumni who may feel voting hesitance or downright mistrust of someone who works in a place with such a reputation as Knockturn Alley? You have one minute to respond.”

[2024/01/27 11:36]  Enoch Marrow: /me nodded his head to Alice as she read out her question, resting his cane against the podium so that he might place his hands atop it. “I thought that someone might ask that. In response, I would like to ask how many of you have actually set foot in our Alley? You may see it as a den of crime and dark arts. I see it as a home. My own daughter lives there with me within our flat and through her I have had an opportunity to truly observe the streets while keeping an eye on her. Knockturn Alley is home to more children than you might think. Children whose parents struggle with work or affording their supplies. Children often forgotten by those who would rather write off the Alley as just that… a place with a murky reputation. The same could be said of the Ministry of Magic if we are being honest. Just as many criminals have come from these emerald halls, if not more.” He refrained from looking at anyone in particular. “The fact of the matter is, that I am best suited to /help/ those children and their families who call Knockturn Alley home because I know their struggles. They are my own. I have worked on those streets to keep a roof over my daughter’s head. And that means taking whatever jobs ensure that. I ask you, who wouldn’t do everything in their power to provide for their child? Would you not want that kind of person there, ensuring your children are cared for as well? Rumours and reputation can be just that… Rumours and reputation. What is important is the actions and values held at heart. My values align with those who weren’t…” He turned looking to Cecily to his right before turning ahead once more, “Born with a silver spoon in their mouth or a rich and powerful parent to fight these battles for them. Because despite my family name, I understand where they are coming from better than most who hold such a seat of power.”

[2024/01/27 11:39]  Alice Hawkins: /me gave a warning, then called time just before Enoch finished. “Thank you. Next, Mr. Hawtrey. In your opening statement at the last Board of Governors meeting, you stated that your goal is to ‘Ensure that all school-aged children be given a full and safe education.’ And then later you state you wish to ‘Find ways to build on what they have already’ in reference to safety, as well. As someone who comes from a Sports and Games background, what would be your actions steps toward accomplishing these goals? How would you go about identifying areas to improve? Mr Hawtrey you have one minute.”

[2024/01/27 11:47]  (no name): /me There was a stillness and silence from the man as he listened to the others before him answer. There was a bit of an internal struggle that he did not let show. When it came his turn, Pip’s brows raised slightly as his head tilted to one side when he heard the wording of the question, and for the time being he decided to disregard the comment about his background, but aside from that his facial reaction was fairly neutral as he took a moment to consider the question and his own answer, “I won’t take up too much time explaining step by step, because I imagine it will be quite a hefty task with many possible changes and challenges, however, to me, these steps would include but are not limited to going through Hogwarts recent history, as well as not so recent if necessary, and seeing where any cracks may exist in the security. I respect that school as much as anyone, perhaps a little more given my own background as a Muggleborn whose first interaction with proper training was Hogwarts, but to think it is  flawless would be a dangerous oversight, in my honest opinion.” He took a breath, “Also, working with the Headmistress and Deputy Headmaster as their knowledge of the school and it’s safety is … I dare say … a little more up to date than ours may be?”  One would hope…  “And, of course, it would be my hope, especially given how other members of the panel have at least one child at the school and use that as a strong point in their platforms, that it would be a group effort to seeing a safer future for Hogwarts. It will certainly be a process.” He finished with a smile.

[2024/01/27 11:50]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded, “Next, Mr. Rookswood. You explained in your opening statement at the last Board of Governors meeting that living and working in the shadow of Hogwarts Castle gave you first hand knowledge of what the children go through, and perhaps what they may need. As someone with little background in education, besides being a good father, what would be your action steps toward your stated goals of increasing the ‘Standard of Living and Education?'”

[2024/01/27 12:01]  Lukka Rookswood: /me listened to Pip talking about security, before perking up at hearing his name, looking over toward Alice as she posed the question, and seemed eager to respond. “First and foremost, we need to have better data available – a thorough inventory of the school’s needs and a plan of action if there’s ever moments of emergency. In the last couple of years, I’ve had people rush down to my store from Hogwarts because the school was lacking in supplies in life or death moments, once when one of the professors was injured during a class, and another time when a student was poisoned. These aren’t things that should be happening, but even institutions like Hogwarts were effected during the grecession,” he said, leaning slightly on the podium as he spoke hastily, knowing he only had a minute. “One of my other goals is to establish as normal, an adequate counseling system or position. The hospital wing and professors already have do deal with the day-to-day issues that students at Hogwarts would face, without adding in  the burden of needing to handle the delicate matter of students’ mental health. I believe that this would improve things greatly within the school, and we’d need to evaluate how best to go about establishing such a specific and, to Hogwarts, new sort of position,” he took a breath, certain he was running out of time, “I would also like to establish a method for parents to be better informed on the goings on at the school, perhaps through a monthly news letter or -“

[2024/01/27 12:04]  Alice Hawkins: /me gave a warning, then called “Time. This next question will be for all of you. What do you believe should be Hogwarts’ top priority in terms of change you would like to see? Mr Koslarevic, we will start with you, you have one minute.”

[2024/01/27 12:10]  Kilian Koslarevic: /me turns his head to Lukka as he speaks. There was a moment when his brow raised up slightly, familiar words just in a different voice. There was a hint of smile before his eyes move to Alice as the mention of his name. He thought for a brief moment before speaking the slavic accent tinting every word. “I regularly hear about children being afraid at the castle. Not of the same thing over and over but various events spread through the whole year. Threats to the castle are not new, never were and never will be. What I would like to see changed the most is what has been addressed before. Safety. They are children in a school and should be able to focus on their life there, studies, preparations for their life outside the castle. While some events shaped us and taught us more than classes, the constant worry of attacks be it from the outside or inside is a distraction and detrimental for the children. It would be a lot of work, da, but finding the weaknesses, the cracks in the walls, the holes in the thicket to stuff them and make the castle a safer place would not only benefit the children’s health, physically and mentally, but also help them focus on their education.”

[2024/01/27 12:11]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded, “Mr Hawtrey, one minute”

[2024/01/27 12:15]  Pip Hawtrey: /me waited patiently and quietly for Kilian to have his turn, his mind shifting from all the recent answers he heard to thinking of his own for a new question directed at all of them. “Similar to what Mister Koslarevic has said, I still maintain that safety would be my biggest change. When it comes to a variety of subjects offered, Hogwarts has that covered. In fact, Hogwarts has a lot going for it, but safety and /maintaining/ security seems to be an on going issue. However, along with a change in the direction of better safety, that will require those of Hogwarts being willing to reach out. There have been times we have seen a divide between Hogwarts and the Ministry to the point they will not accept help. So along with updated safety and security, I feel as though a top priority in terms of change would be those in the school, especially at the top, being accepting of help or assistance.”

[2024/01/27 12:17]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded, “Mr Rookswood, one minute”

[2024/01/27 12:21]  Lukka Rookswood: /me waits for his turn to answer the question, “I do believe that establishing a counselor position at the school would be the most beneficial. Don’t get me wrong,” he gestured toward Pip and Kilian, “I agree that security is also of the utmost importance, especially when we consider the recent issues abroad, such as the downfall of Durmstrang,” he said gravely, “But what I’m suggesting is something that can be done /now/, fairly easily. I’m sure we’ve all known problem students, or gone through periods of our own lives when it felt like the world was crashing in around us, as all young people seem to go through at some point. Having someone that you feel you can safely confide in, without worrying about things like how a professor or other students might begin to perceive you, can go a long way toward bettering a child’s life in school, and it’s something that can be accomplished in tandem with strengthening the school’s security. I would argue even, that making our students /feel/ supported /is/ a security  issue. Imagine how easily foreign propaganda could infiltrate the mind of a lonely student lacking confidence, verses a student who feels heard and, most of all, supported, by their school.”

[2024/01/27 12:22]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded, then moved on. “Mr Marrow, one minute”

[2024/01/27 12:22]  Enoch Marrow: /me glanced over to Lukka briefly as Alice asked the next question before clearing his throat once it was his turn. “Like those who have spoken before me, I believe that more transparency within Hogwarts is desperately needed. How many of you can say you know what events are taking place within the school’s walls? Just this week I received a letter from the Headmistress about my own daughter’s injury, an irreversible injury she suffered within the Institute’s glorious halls, while she was victim to an ongoing problem I had no idea about. The school saw fit to leave me in the dark until these was no hiding it, only then inviting me to discuss matters and visit Aures. We’ve heard this story too many times, have we not? How many of you have been or have known someone involved in a life or death situation within those halls, whose parents never heard a word until after the danger had passed? And I don’t mean in the form of some gossip rag’s breaking news story full of half truths and rumours. I believe it is /paramount/ that we establish more transparency, even so far as a monthly news letter as Mr. Rookswood suggested. I am not an unreasonable man, I am well aware that there are hundreds of students all with different parents. I do not expect personalised letters every week, but I should like to have some idea what my fifteen year old daughter is facing, ideally /before/ she loses another limb. I think we can all agree that we’d like to see something like this, no?” His gaze searched those in the crowd, nodding his head once as though to punctuate his statement.

[2024/01/27 12:23]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded, “Mrs Braithwaite, one minute”

[2024/01/27 12:24]  Cecily Braithwaite: /me listened to each response of each candidate agreeing to some and making questionable expressions to most but all and all she didn’t want to seem as if she was being negative. When it was her time the short woman began to speak “Ladies and gentlemen and Wixens, as we stand at the crossroads of magical education, the top priority for Hogwarts should undoubtedly be the fostering of an environment that champions inclusivity and innovation. We are at a moment in time where the winds of change beckon us to reevaluate and adapt.  Each student is a unique magical being, and Hogwarts should be a place where they are not only educated but empowered to explore and excel in their distinct talents. Specialized programs and mentorship initiatives can pave the way for a new era of witches and wizards who contribute to our magical world in unprecedented ways.

[2024/01/27 12:25]  Alice Hawkins: /me scratched her head subtly as she listened, then moved on. “Mr Owsley, one minute”

[2024/01/27 12:26]  Arklin Owsley: /me had a one-word answer. “Education.” Need he say more? Speaking too much was never the best for him, so he tried to keep his answers short so short they didn’t answer much at all.

[2024/01/27 12:28]  Pip Hawtrey: /me caught the look that Kilian was giving to Enoch and he took a small step back as to not be in the way, but now his own curiosity was through the roof, even without a child in the school. He could only imagine what the parents on the panel were thinking after all that.

[2024/01/27 12:34]  Alice Hawkins: /me hmm’d and moved on. “Erm, Mr Dechants, your answer?”

[2024/01/27 12:34]  Consus Callyn Dechants: /me soundlessly drummed his fingers against the edge of the podium while he waited his turn, his blonde brows gently pulled together to form shallow creases above his nose. He gave small nods to the words of Koslarevic, Hawtrey and Marrow and had hard looks for Braithwaite and Owsley. When Hawkins finally gave the word, he stood bolt upright and spoke to the crowd, his eyes screening every face in view while he spoke with an air of certainty and pride. “For too long Hogwarts has stood as though a sovereign nation in the middle of ours, closed to not only the public, but to the parents of the children within its walls and even the Ministry of Magic. In this great independence it has found unimaginable danger in the last few years. When faced with these dangers, what have they done to combat them? They have made militias of teenagers and sent them like the Canary in the coal mine to snuff out the danger so they might deal with them themselves. A practice that nearly cost me the life of my own daughter when she  petrified by a Basilisk while doing her Prefectly duties. She was not to be the only one who had such a close call with death by its gaze either. Countless other incidents have occurred before and since, and every time the head staff of Hogwarts have chosen pride before safety. Ladies and gentlemen, this cannot be allowed to continue. I believe it is time that Hogwarts is treated as what it is; A school within our nation, under our laws and our Ministry. These barriers of undue privilege must be broken down that we the parents and the Ministry, the D-M-L-E especially, are able to better monitor the goings-on of the castle and protect the children within it from the dark forces that have proven time and time again that they will not stop haunting it so long as it is an easy target.”

[2024/01/27 12:37]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded, “And Mr Colquhoun, your answer?”

[2024/01/27 12:39]  Archibald Colquhoun: /me listened to the other candidates with genuine interest, even skilfully avoiding a shocked looked at his former Head of House. His manner showed that he appreciated their contributions and agreed with many of their assessments. Being last, he stewed over the responses before speaking in his clear, professional tones. “Well, I have the unfortunate task of following a number of excellent and sensible suggestions. None of these ideas are mutually exclusive, but my own focus is on the pastoral care of students within Hogwarts. Mr Rookswood has already suggested a counsellor position, an idea with which I agree. But I think we have to think much more radically. My priority would be to develop an brand new model of pastoral care and student support within Hogwarts. Its aim would be to create a more pro-active and clear system of support, care, and advice for each student. At the moment, the student support system focuses primarily on the House system. I am sure that many of you will have seen just how  overwhelmingly busy and overworked the Heads of Houses are in their responsibilities. As well as pastoral care, they have to deal with a lot of disciplinary issues, house business, and school administration, professors as well as students. The two are, after all, deeply interconnected.” He looked like he had more detail to add, but he stopped with a smile for the sake of time.

[2024/01/27 12:43]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded. “Mr. Marrow, you mentioned earlier that your daughter was the victim of an unfortunate injury, and I myself even suffered numerous injuries during my time at Hogwarts, not least of which injuries sustained whilst fighting a dragon, thankfully none of which were permanent. What, if anything would you put in place to prevent injuries and deaths in the future?”

[2024/01/27 12:50]  Enoch Marrow: /me considered the question for a moment. “I believe my esteemed opponent, Mr. Dechants, had the right of it. Where Mr. Colquhoun is correct in stating that Hogwarts staff are overworked, I would argue that it is a dedicated and /trained/ security force might be the way of it. A branch of the D-M-L-E perhaps that serves at the school, ensuring that it is trained adults who step in to face threats such as dragons and the like, rather than our children or their educators. That said, I am aware that our beloved learning institute is prone to an interest in remaining independent. If that is to be the case, I would suggest training for the staff of Hogwarts overseen by the D-M-L-E to prepare them for such instances. In addition, better D-A-D-A staff, who would work at dissuading children from running into danger /and/ better prepare them for the unavoidable. We have had a string of easy-going professors in the position or those who would see first years charging into battle. I would propose we remedy that.”

[2024/01/27 12:54]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded, “This will be our next and final question, for all of you. Hogsmeade has always been in the shadow of Hogwarts and often suffers the same mysterious circumstances that happen to the school. For example in the past year Hogsmeade was entirely in the dark 24 hours a day for a month, due to a magical relic at the school, however Hogsmeade residents were given no explanation, not even an official one when the situation had resolved. What would you do to better relations with Hogsmeade and its residents? Mr Colquhoun, we will begin with you. You have one minute.”

[2024/01/27 13:00]  Archibald Colquhoun: /me had not expected that question. He stiffened up and yet remained remarkably calm as he took a swift moment to consider his thoughts. “That is a very fair question. Hogsmeade is in a very strange situation in that it is strongly affected by what happens in the school but has no relationship to what happens within its walls. The first step must surely be improved communication and transparency. My first suggestion would be regular community liaison meetings between members of the local community and members of the school administration. We might even, from time to time, wish to invite representatives of the community to attend the Board of Governors in order to hear their concerns about what is happening in the school, or even make positive suggestions about how we can foster a great sense of community between school and village. Of course, the Board and the Headmistress must take a pro-active role in this, but as a Board, we would also have to engage with the ministry, especially in matters of security. I  think that comes down to better transparency and efficiency when it comes to the Ministry’s security of the School, as many of the candidates have raised today.”

[2024/01/27 13:00]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded, “Mr Dechants, your answer”

[2024/01/27 13:03]  Consus Callyn Dechants: /me nodded lightly upon hearing the question and turned his eyes on Archie while he gave his answer. Once it was delivered, he turned his attention towards the crowd again and set his hands on the sides of the podium. “What the good people of Hogsmeade suffered while an explanation was only a short carriage ride away was unacceptable. People were given cause to fear for their work, their homes and even their very lives during the blackout. It has not been the first time the people of Hogsmeade have been punished for their closeness to Hogwarts. I need not remind everyone of rampaging dark wizards and dragon attacks, for they are surely etched into every one of our memories for how horrible they were. That of information, communication and with it the ability to protect the people that are affected by their proximity to the school is just another one of the barriers that Hogwarts’ overindependence has put up that we must break down if we are to make it a safer place for all.”

[2024/01/27 13:04]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded, “Mr Owsley?”

[2024/01/27 13:04]  Arklin Owsley: /me had no idea why this question required their attention; still, on this one, he had more to say. “Is it the duty of the Hogwarts Board Of Governors to oversee Hogsmeade?” He posed the question back. “If so, then perhaps the Hogwarts Board of Governors should oversee the entirety of the Magical Community.” He paused before adding. “In that case, does The Board of Governors then become an extension of The Ministry of Magic? Though I suspect when you have the Department of Magical Games and Sports and what else, this Board will be likely filled entirely with Ministry staff that are unequipped with such situations.”

[2024/01/27 13:05]  Alice Hawkins: /me raised her brows a bit, then nodded, “Mrs Braithwaite, your answer?”

[2024/01/27 13:05]  Cecily Braithwaite: /me took a sip of her water and would clear her throat ” Alice, an excellent question that addresses a crucial aspect of Hogwarts’ relationship with the community. To improve relations with Hogsmeade and its residents, transparency and effective communication are paramount.

Firstly, I propose the establishment of a community liaison office, a bridge between Hogwarts and Hogsmeade. This office would serve as a direct point of contact for residents, ensuring that they receive timely updates on any magical occurrences that might impact their daily lives. Communication is key, and this initiative would provide clarity and reassurance to the community.

To enhance transparency, I suggest organizing regular town hall meetings where representatives from Hogwarts, the Ministry, and Hogsmeade residents can come together. These meetings will provide a platform for open dialogue, enabling us to share information about ongoing magical studies at Hogwarts and any potential impact on the town.

Moreover, the formation of a joint task force, comprised of members from both Hogwarts and Hogsmeade, can work collaboratively to address and resolve magical incidents swiftly. This task force will not only serve to enhance communication but also foster a sense of shared responsibility and unity between the school and the town.

Lastly, I advocate for a comprehensive magical education program for Hogsmeade residents. By offering classes or workshops, we can empower them with a better understanding of magical phenomena, fostering a community that is not only informed but actively engaged in the magical world around them.

In essence, my approach is rooted in openness, collaboration, and education. By establishing clear channels of communication, fostering community involvement, and sharing knowledge, we can create a harmonious relationship between Hogwarts and the residents of Hogsmeade, ensuring that both thrive in tandem.”

[2024/01/27 13:06]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded, then moved on, “Mr Marrow?”

[2024/01/27 13:07]  (no name): /me At this question, Enoch nodded his head. “I have thought a lot about this questions myself. I have become familiar with many who live and work in Hogsmeade and have heard stories about the run off they’ve experienced from the school, be it werewolves trying to access the school or enchanted darkness. I believe this falls into my call for transparency from Hogwarts. Residents of Hogsmeade should not have to beg for knowledge of the things that are affecting them as well. I believe it is important going forward that the school communicate better with the town and I believe a way to ensure that is done by having statements released from the Board of Governors, signed off on by Chairman Graves, of course. In addition, I would offer a alternative to Mr. Colquhoun’s suggestion. Yes, a community liaison should be elected, I would have Hogsmeade elect one person, a resident of the village, to represent them. A monthly meeting could be held within the village and that singular liaison could attend meetings with the concerns- related to the school. It is not Hogwarts’, nor the Board of Governors’ duty to involve themselves in the bulk of the village’s politics, as Mr. Owsley said, but we cannot pretend as though the school does not affect the community. And so I would like to think my suggestion is a compromise between the two. One that…” He looked down the line on his right before turning ahead once more, “Does not attempt to impose too much on the people of Hogsmeade, nor those in charge of Hogwarts.”

[2024/01/27 13:09]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded, “Mr Rookswood, your answer?”

[2024/01/27 13:11]  Lukka Rookswood: /me drummed his fingers against the podium briefly as he began to speak, “I am uniquely qualified to answer this question, as I actually DO live in Hogsmeade!” he said, “And it was an uncomfortable time indeed! I had no idea what was going on, and could only presume the school was the source. With temperatures dipping dangerously low, all I could do was send my son to stay with his grandparents for a time, while I tried to maintain my business despite the terrible way in which our regular traffic was effected. I must agree whole heartedly that transparency is not something that the school does well. I believe that the monthly Hogsmeade weekend would be the perfect opportunity for Hogsmeade residents and business owners to meet with school representatives for – why, even an hour before students arrive, to keep us up to date on the goings’ on of the school. If there were some explanation as to /why/ something had occurred, even the courtesy of posting a notice in our square would go a long way toward helping us understand what was going on and how long we could expect it to last rather than, if you’ll pardon the pun, leaving us in the dark.” For the first time, he appeared slightly ruffled, as of course, the situation had affected him personally. “Having me in office, I could act as both a member of the Board of Governors, and the proposed Hogsmeade Liaison, keeping us all in the loop.”

[2024/01/27 13:12]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded and continued, “Mr Hawtrey?”

[2024/01/27 13:13]  Pip Hawtrey: /me glanced down the row to those who have already taken their turn. Whether he agreed with any of them or not was kept to himself while he had been listening, however… “I also have had my fair share of time in the village, and I do tend to agree that transparency is a huge first step. And as a few others have mentioned, I also agree that perhaps having a Hogsmeade representative, either in direct contact with the school, or even with the Board would be beneficial? To me, it is one thing for bad things to happen – as horrible as it can be, but it’s another to go unheard, and I feel like just being heard could make a difference for them. From there, other steps could be taken to better relations, and with them having that connection to either Hogwarts or the Board – or both – that could enable those steps to actually make a difference rather than a Board blindly putting out changes they /think/ will work without suggestions or feed back from those living in the community and dealing with situations first hand.”

[2024/01/27 13:14]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded, “And, Mr Koslarevic?”

[2024/01/27 13:16]  Kilian Koslarevic: /me listens to the other candidates before speaking. “Da, it was unacceptable to leave the village in the dark. Literally.” He cleared his throat. “Not only was it complete darkness but temperatures dropped to a dangerously low level. Without a word of what happened or knowledge if it was happening anywhere else.” He cleared his throat. “It is not that Hogsmeade Residents do not know magic and what can occur within those bounds. They are Wixen after all, living with magic day in and out. But unknown forces are unknown forces.” He states to the comment of magical education. “The members of the DRCMC have also experienced the effects of the events as we were on location to keep an eye on the impact of the forest. This is another point of importance. The Forbidden Forest borders the village, so even in cases when the villagers would not be directly affected, the wildlife may be… and cross boundaries. So knowledge of events is of upmost importance.” He clears his throat. “I can only echo what my fellow candidat

[2024/01/27 13:16]  Kilian Koslarevic: /me  stated. We need to establish communication and transparency, not to wait until everything is over but share information with those affected as soon as we gather it. Not only as Mister Marrow mentioned when it comes to parents before, but also with Hogsmeade as they are in a unique situation to be affected by the events at Hogwarts in one way or another. The aforementioned establishing of a liaison would be a logical step in that direction.”

[2024/01/27 13:18]  Alice Hawkins: /me nodded as Killian finished. “Thank you all for being here today and this will conclude our town hall. Voting will take place on Tuesday and may either be done in-person at the Ministry, or via owl.”

London, UK – The Ministry of Magic is pleased to announce the implementation of new legislation aimed at addressing the rising concerns of werewolf crime and ensuring the safety of the Wizarding community. These laws will go into effect on April 17, 2030, and have been carefully crafted with the utmost consideration for fairness and leniency.

Werewolf crime has been on the rise in recent times, posing a significant threat to the public. The Ministry of Magic has taken necessary steps to introduce measures that will address this issue and ensure the safety of all individuals in the Wizarding community. These laws have been designed to balance the rights of werewolves with the need to protect the general public from harm.

The new werewolf legislation includes provisions for mandatory registration of werewolves with the Ministry of Magic, regular monitoring and assessment of their condition, and strict regulations on their movements during the full moon. In addition, there will be enhanced penalties for werewolf-related offenses, including attacks on humans or other magical creatures. The Ministry of Magic is committed to upholding these laws and will take strong action against those who violate them.

The implementation of these werewolf laws is necessary to safeguard the welfare and security of the Wizarding community. It is our responsibility to ensure that all individuals, both werewolves and non-werewolves, can coexist peacefully and safely within our society. The Ministry of Magic urges all members of the Wizarding community to familiarize themselves with these laws and comply with them at all times.

The full legislation is available upon request by contacting the Wizengamot Administration Services.

Order of Merlin: Second Class Awards

In recognition of their exceptional efforts in keeping the public safe from the werewolf threat, the Ministry of Magic is pleased to announce the awarding of the Order of Merlin: Second Class to two outstanding individuals.

Bonnie Nishi and Noma Nyx have demonstrated exemplary courage and dedication in their efforts to protect the Wizarding community from werewolf-related crimes. Their tireless work in investigating and apprehending dangerous werewolf criminals has been invaluable in ensuring public safety.

Alice Hawkins is also awarded the Order of Merlin: Second Class for her exceptional efforts that have resulted in the righting of the Wizarding economy. Her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the financial stability of our community have been instrumental in bringing about positive changes and ensuring a prosperous future for all.

The Ministry of Magic extends its heartfelt congratulations to Bonnie Nishi, Noma Nyx, and Alice Hawkins for their outstanding contributions to the Wizarding community. Their unwavering dedication and selfless service are truly commendable, and they are deserving recipients of this prestigious honour.

Moving the meteor hundreds of miles from Hogsmeade to the Ministry in London proved to be a difficult and dangerous task carried out by a team of both independent metal charmers as well as the Ministry Departments of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes, Magical Law Enforcement, and Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures. The Ministry placed Alice Hawkins in charge of moving the meteor, and the Prophet was able to speak to her about the effort.

“A lot of work was put into making sure the whole process was safe for everyone as well as hidden from muggles, so it took just over a month to build the safety devices and get everything ready to move. We chose a hot air balloon towed by thestrals to actually move [the meteor] because it didn’t need magic and could take off vertically. Plus, muggles wouldn’t think a hot air balloon was anything unusual if they saw it.” 

Alice went on to state that the meteor causes magic to behave strangely in its presence. “There was a slight incident during flight where one of the straps holding the meteor came loose but we were able to repair it mid-flight. The team should be commended for their bravery – Elliott Reid, Eric Hyland, Fawnita Fergusson, Theo Bennett, Reika Minase, Michi Nishi, Noma Nyx, Killian Koslarevic, and Dominik Katzen all acted at a moment’s notice and prevented disaster.” 

The flight began in the twilight hours of the evening and lasted around 6 hours total, with each team member dissilusionment charmed to hide themselves from sight, making the flight all the more treacherous.

While coins are finally being produced, we may not see the economy back to normal for some time. One batch of coins takes roughly a week to produce, so it could be a few more weeks before the average wixen has them in their pockets. Despite this, market prices have improved slightly on the positive news that galleons, sickles, and knuts will once again be flowing. 

In conversation with Philomena Pest

We journalists invigorate stories by cementing them into exotic, addictive and hypnotic words, written down with our unanimous quills of palate drenching truths, tasked with one simple mission; to get to the very heart of those tellings that grasp us most! To extrapolate, tear apart and rebuild anything and everything, into a weaving, synchronized and sometimes melodic revelation, on page, for our darling readers!

Notorious! That’s what they call me. As my interviews and articles unhinge the hinged and hinge the unhinged, dismantle the fabric of illusions built up by clever criminals, and crafty cheats, precious politicians and even the deceased! This interview, once again an EXCLUSIVE for Witch Weekly, dives nose first into an area of one wizard’s life, ripping apart the guise of calmness, and proving that underneath even the most tepid of us all there lies a breaking point.

From terrific trials of those sourly judged and condemned to Azkaban, to the resurgence of divisive independence, to freakish accidents and fandangled contraptions, to life in the wet, dreary and rural shivers of Scotland’s Perthshire, we sift through one mans very dark but fascinating life, laced with terrors tucked away behind an austere exterior, and we welcome you back to our tantalizing spread of mouth watering tell-alls.

Let me pour you some tea, darlings! It’s PIPING HOT! As sitting before me, dressed in a refined cashmere three piece suit of what I’d call a seaweed green tartan, a vision of stoicness, a vision of control, a vision of unmovable esteem, is Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot Alistair Colquhoun.

Chief Warlock Colquhoun, darling! How do you take your tea? Or should I say whisky?

A wee dash of milk and nothing else. Whole milk only. Skimmed milk is for prisoners and hypochondriacs and muggle workhouses. Sugar is an unnecessary indulgence but fat is a perfectly natural part of the product. I don’t like to tamper with the natural order. On that note, shall we go with the whisky? It is nearly Christmas and it has been a rough year.

Firstly – are you married?

Certainly. Fiona and I will have been married 34 years this July. It doesn’t do well for a man to remain unmarried and I am not keen on this squalid nonsense that people call “divorce”.

Me neither, darling. And you still find her attractive all these years later?

In every possible way.

What has been the key to your successful marriage?

The recognition that you should not pretend to be what you are not. Partners must accommodate each other in a marriage. You learn not to live for yourself but to see yourself as a single entity. But you can never get to this stage if you are forging your own personality. Honesty sometimes leads to rows, but what of it? Marriage is permission to row; you know that the other person isn’t going anywhere. You recognise that and work through it.

Any children?

We have two children. A daughter, Siobhan, aged 25 and a son, Archie, aged 19.

Any pets?

We have two dogs. A sheltie and a fox terrier. Damned good company.

Where do you live, darling?

A country house in rural Perthshire. The nearest settlement is the muggle town of Auchterarder but we are quite out in the sticks. We live in our own world down by the lochside.

Cold and wet place, darling!

That is true, but it is bracing and romantic and remarkably peaceful. I cannot imagine why anybody would be so insane as to want to live in London. When you spend your working life in the Ministry, you have to get far away in your own time. Besides, I was raised on the West Coast of Scotland which is considerably colder and wetter.

You became Chief Warlock this year [2027], how IS it going?

Affairs have been challenging, but I’m not the kind to expect anything less. I’ve inherited a respectable court, burning with a no-nonsense desire for justice and effective governance. It is the duty of the Wizengamot not to shy away from any matter which concerns it. Nobody is above the law, even senior Ministry officials. No legislative matter is to be left unaddressed just because it might be awkward or uncomfortable. I have had to deal with many difficult matters already and I am well prepared for more. My approach is a little different from my predecessor, but I am no less unflinching. If there is disorder, I will sooth it. If there is corruption, I will weed it out. If there is injustice, I will crush it under foot.

Colquhoun succeeded the boisterous and hard-as-nails Chief Warlock Bugulartis Warble this year, after first serving as the court’s Magistrate.

What was it like, working with the loud and tough Bug Warble?

[He seems to pause thoughtfully here, with a rummage of his lip] Adventurous. Exhilarating. Very occasionally frustrating, but I’m sure he’ll admit that himself. Warble had inherited a court riddled with corruption by Dorchester. It took a firm had to turn it back in the right direction, and show our citizenry that such a thing could never happen again. I am sure that I would not have accepted my position if it had not been for my predecessor. His good taste in whisky helped as well.

Minister Alyssa Merriweather. Dramatic pause. What are your thoughts on her?

A very accomplished young witch. You can’t help but admire somebody who at the age of only 26 gave up her career in order to pursue a difficult public office after her predecessor had just been assassinated. Her political situation has hardly been forgiving either. Two major international events, two senior aurors imprisoned for serious offences, the Hogwarts Headmaster’s death in office, continued murmurings of dark activity, rampant monetary inflation – to hold the Ministership at this time takes character.

She is an attractive woman, isn’t she darling?

One might very well say that. I think a woman ought to be able to hold her own in political office without men commenting on her appearance.

You presided over the very messy Goblin-Gretreat debacle. Was it entirely legal?

It was a political matter, not a legal one. Sometimes we have to adapt procedures to match political realities. That procedure led to a decision and the law should respect it. The duty of the law is to ensure that political decisions are limited by the bounds of order and justice.

Go on darling… were you for or against the Goblin Independence?

I am for the law. If people vote for it, the law must be for it. If people vote against it, the law must be against it. I think that’s clear enough.

During the debates, sources tell me that Headmaster Golovin of Durmstrang Academy was among those fiercely advocating against it. Should outsiders have an opinion on matters of British concern?

Headmaster Golovin was entitled to his views. As for the second part, no part of the Magical world is an Island, not even Britain. Unlike our muggle counterparts, we have to hold the exercise of our sovereignty with an eye to the Wizarding community worldwide. We are answerable to the International Confederation for the safety and secrecy of our world. It is therefore advisable to seek outside expertise and advice when appropriate, particularly from such a prominent figure. His loss will hit the International Community hard, I’m certain.

This year you oversaw an unprecedented trial in which Zenith DePalo, a previous Head Auror, was accused of murdering another auror. Juicy darling! Tell me about that.

[He glares coldly over his whisky in perfectly stern composure] That is correct. He was accused of murdering one of his colleagues during the response to the situation in the Dark Forest, which of course led to the destruction of the village of Hogsmeade. To my mind, we treated it as a case like any other. Witnesses were presented. We gave the accused time to establish a defense. None was forthcoming. He was found guilty. That is all to it. As I have said, none are above the law. Murder is murder is murder. [He sips his whisky]

He was sentenced, under your ruling, to pitiful community service in Gringotts of all places. Sod Azkaban, darling! What was the rationale behind that sentence?

Pitiful community service? Have you visited the deeper vaults of Gringotts much, Philomena? It is surely no less a prison than if it were built to serve as one. The sentence for murder is life imprisonment. This sentence was delivered. It was only the location which was different from, well, the usual. But it is no less a punishment on those grounds. It is true that DePalo provides services within Gringott’s, by why should he not? If we can alter the location of the sentence in order to make the prisoner useful to society, surely there is an advantage in doing so?

This is not an isolated case, is it darling, [I pull out a parchment] Three other cases were reported from various departments at different times. Is the Ministry riddled with corruption?

[He stares imperiously, unnerved.] They are quite different cases. Two very minor complaints, which required no criminal action. No party named in them should be subjected to any harassment over unsubstantiated speculation. As for the further criminal case, this was dealt with openly and swiftly. If anything, the fact that the Ministry treats crimes by its own employees just as seriously shows the *lack* of corruption – the fearless and impartial application of the rule of law to everybody. Absolutely everybody. 

In fact, the additional cases were allegedly reported from the Aurors Office, Department of Magical Education and the Ministers Support Staff Office, with the former case involving now-incarcerated Auror Anya Peyroux, and the latter cases pointing towards Head Examiner Arklin Owsley and Senior Assistant Michel St. Jours, after their separate media scandals.

Haggis. Thoughts?

Boiled never baked. The tatties should have a healthy amount of butter. The whisky sauce should not be laced with too much mustard. Details are important. I am a lawyer after all.

Do you dress yourself?

Dress myself? Certainly. I have my two hands do I not? Are there people out there who do not dress themselves? Some people rely far too much on their house elves. But, thank you.

Britain is facing an economic financial crisis. Shocking! What can we do to fix it?

Economic crises often follow political instability. It is unfortunate but predictable. The surest way to fix it is to put an end to the political crisis by negotiating a goblin settlement as soon as possible. This will restore confidence in Gringotts Bank and allow the economy to continue without such uncertainty. I can aid in developing a legal settlement, but the rest is unfortunately the job of politicians.

Is some of the Wizengamot legislation you have presided over to blame?

The situation is the situation. Some might argue that this ‘referendum’ might not have been the best way to go about things. Others argue differently. As to why Goblinkind saw the need to have this discussion at all, that would be a rather long-winded historical discussion. I try to deal primarily with the present.

Every hard working witch or wizard deserves a holiday now and then. I like to party it out in Madrid myself. Where do you like to go?

My daughter lives in Nova Scotia and we try to visit at least once a year. It doesn’t feel too different from home, but it is still a holiday. Otherwise, I spend a lot of time at my club. I can always be sure of some peace, a good dram, and some intelligent company.

Tell us about that scar on your left eye. Scathing!

Youthful adventure and academic impetuousness. This was given to me when I was an apprentice potioneer under Adalbert K. Crackenthorpe. The name rings caterwauling charms throughout the potions world. His methods were eccentric but insightful. I have corrected it using my own ingenuity. It is the price of research. Some people rank safely far too highly and forget that a life worth living does involve a certain element of calculated risk.

Do you often like to take ‘calculated risks’, darling?

When it comes to law, it is important to be rigorous and detailed. Sometimes that involves creative judgement but I wouldn’t call it risk. Therefore, I have to compensate with risks in other spheres. Perhaps agreeing to this interview was a calculated risk? [He sips his whisky]

How much do you earn a year?

Enough to keep me independent. That’s the real value of money isn’t it? [He glances up and down Pest’s extravagant clothes] And rather less than you earn yourself, I perceive.

You’re a proud recipient of the Order of Merlin – tell us how you felt the day you received this rarest of awards.

It felt as though I had truly been of service. The recognition was not necessary to know that my work had been of value, but it was humbling to know that my fellow citizens thought the same.

I am due one myself, darling, don’t you think?

Perhaps we should return to the question on the Goblin vote? That one was easier to answer politely.

The Wizengamot is renowned for its unfair nepotism, and frank love for those of a higher blood status. Is this how you came to power? Through such ways?

[He seems to visibly stiffen here] I have made it plain that I do not hold with those attitudes. The court could have more diversity of background and experience, but it is far from self-selecting. We now have considerably more younger members, and the weight of some of the older so-called ‘pure-blood’ families has waned over the years. It is true to say I am not exactly underprivileged but it is a low standard of journalism to make insinuations of that sort. My appointment was on merit and experience and that can be clearly demonstrated.

Historically, the Wizengamot has often been composed of personally selected jurors, either via the Chief Warlock or the Minister for Magic themself, with Pure-blooded families, the affluent, famous or otherwise powerful sorts taking seats, alongside those brought in the normal way, through hard work and qualification. For the sake of full clarification, Chief Warlock Alistair Colquhoun is himself Pure-blooded.

What are your thoughts on Azkaban Prison today, compared with, say, twenty years ago.

It is a far more appropriate place without its cruel and unusual defenses. Legally, the presence of dementors was a disgrace. The Wizengamot delivered sentences of imprisonment, not of enforced madness and emotional torture. I am certain that this was not the original intention in having them there, but it became the reality, and the Ministry decided that it suited them to keep it as such without asking the obvious ethical questions.

Should dementors be called in again? After all, darling, if the infamous Judy Dorchester escaped, who is to say it won’t happen again?

Prisoners escaped even with the presence of dementors. In fact, the most disastrous mass breakouts from Azkaban were not prevented by them. These incidents are unfortunate, but I see no justification for inflicting suffering on the orderly prisoners for the sake of the occasional escapee. In any case, this is a question for the Department of Magical Law Enforcement.

If you were to stand trial, what would it be for and why?

Probably a libel against your newspaper at this stage, but it is very unlikely. Let me give you some advice Philomena. If you say that I am corrupt in office, that would be a libel. If you say that I am unfaithful to my wife, that would be a libel. However, if you say that I am an irritable old Nazzle Mumph, that is merely vulgar abuse. Take care to restrict your harsher words only to vulgar abuse and no action for libel can come against you. If I were to stand trial, it would be because I had broken this rule and said something regrettable.

Do you think you could wrangle yourself out of a harsh sentence, darling?

Most definitely. It would be a sight to behold, the defense triumph of the century.

Favourite colour?

A rich mossy green. Definitely not purple.

Any hobbies? I am a ferocious Samba addict myself, darling! It keeps my legs slender and my heart pumping. What about you?

Well, I think I am far too middle-aged for that sort of thing, but perhaps it would keep me more youthful? The thrill of potions research never leaves you. I maintain a small laboratory at home and I am normally working on something. Naturally, this takes a more leisurely pace compared to when it was my career. I am a bibliophile and enthusiastic book collector. Writing to potential suppliers and travelling to find rare items keeps my weekends well occupied. My wife and son are keen lovers of the opera and the symphony. I sometimes join them but being in muggle environments takes some … preparation [He points to his eyeglass]

Tell us about your eyeglass, that I suspect is custom made.

Custom made by these very hands, in one of my more ingenious moments. You see, the magical potency of the experimental brew which marked my face has never worn off my eye. This lense is designed to adjust to its … movements. Without it, I would never be able to focus predictably on anything, as my eyesight shifts constantly. If I look into a river on a winter morning, I see fire and ice dancing through streams of malice. If I look into a criminal’s eyes, more or less the same. What you see when you look back at me is your own concern … but sometimes it proves an advantage to look somewhat unnerving in my profession. [I notice here that a rather striking stripe of green flashes across his pupil, as his eyeglass appears to click a quarter-way clockwise.]

Really… tell me more about this dangerous, reckless and disastrous potion.

[He laughs for the first time] Oh, many even harmless potions can be reckless and disastrous when they are not brewed properly. In the act of experimental potioneering, there is always an element of uncertainty. Again, calculated risk. If you insist on knowing, I had hoped that its properties would have an antidote effect … to a particularly dark form of magic. Precisely what, I am not going to tell you. In any case, it didn’t work. That’s part of experimentation.

A harmless potion that was… thrown at you? During a fight, perhaps? A venomous, frightening battle to the death? You can tell me, darling!

Oh, now, just because Witch Weekly attracts angry responses to your articles, it doesn’t mean all of us have a habit of attracting animosity. I enjoy an honourable dual as much as the next man, but I settle differences with reason and discussion. At least, as far as possible.

Christmas is around the corner. Are you a festive man yourself?

I am more puritanical, I’m afraid. I find it difficult to be away from my desk for such an extended time, although I try not to impose that attitude on my colleagues. I won’t say that I don’t appreciate the winter moments. To sit at home in the company of family, a crackling fire, a rare firewhisky in hand. I don’t deny that it’s pleasant.

How will you be spending it this year?

My son was married earlier this year, so they will be hosting Christmas this year. We will be travelling to Wester Ross to spend it in their new home. Blessed family isolation.

On behalf of the Wizengamot, what would you like to say to all the devoted Witch Weekly readers:

Discerning truth from falsehood is more difficult than you think. Most people like a convenient untruth. Most people don’t like to be told they are wrong. Are you those people, readers?

Lastly, darling! What is one thing we don’t know about you?

I have rather an adventurous side, although it appears only from time to time. Sometimes, I consider taking myself away to pursue certain things I neglected in my youth. I imagine that my retirement will be rather less comfortable than the bourgeois, office-bound career I have found myself in at present. Oh, but don’t worry. I’m not going anywhere. Not for a very long time.

And there it is, darlings! Another sensational interview, clawing its way ferociously out of the ground, to flower and flounder onto a page of exquisite reading. Did you get your fill? Of course you did, darlings, because it was I who fed you! 

From the sickeningly sweet details of Colquhoun’s life in the rainy, plaidy, short-bready north, to the bitingly bitter tidbits about his awfully scary eye, the eye glass, the stern posture, cold and careful approach to his work, and his fastidious, studious and eximious style of serving justice, you’ve had it all! Well, most of it anyway, darlings, who knows what more there is to learn? Does his indifference to Goblin matters suggest a disregard for our cash handling fellows, for example? Are his compliments towards the Minister a frantic matter of heart over mind, and is a tinge of temptation there? And what about his peculiar story regarding that terrible potion incident; did his answer miss out key, and perhaps darker parts of what happened? This is a wizard, who on the surface seems resilient, well put together, and as grounded as they come. And he probably is! Until he’s not, darlings.  But if one thing is for certain – you’ll hear it from me first. 

A very festive, Merry Christmas to you all! *smoky laugh*

Friendly competition went out of the window at Hogwarts on Wednesday – quite literally – starting off the Triwizard Tournament with a bang that was most unexpected.

A whispered word of caution – that most would consider a threat – was given by the Deputy Headmistress of Durmstrang Institute, Vilhelda Oorvegr, to The Daily Prophet reporter Saffron Foxclaw.

“One word, just /one/ wrong word of Durmstrang and its champions. Will be the end of your career, you wretched little creature…”

Of course this reporter is no stranger to being threatened over the contents of an article however it was felt that that particular line of article would be more suited to the drama filled, glossy pages of Witch Weekly – how wrong I was.

It was perhaps inevitable that I would stumble across an interesting scene of Durmstrang Headmaster Matvey Golovin encouraging his students to run towards the Whomping Willow in the Hogwarts grounds. From observation it appeared to be a training exercise though the subsequent trip into the Forbidden Forest was a demonstration of the lack of control and discipline Golovin holds. Putting not only himself at risk, Golovin took the Durmstrang and Beauxbatons champions into the Forbidden Forest in search of a mere coin leading to a rather nasty entanglement with the acromantula that roam the dangerous expanse of woodland.

The events of the last few days, however, pale into insignificance when reports of Deputy Headmistress Oorvegr began to emerge. A student granted a brief interview to explain what had happened under the assurance of anonymity, for legal reasons The Daily Prophet is unable to name the students involved with the following incident.

The fact that Oorvegr “has certain outmoded ideas about antiquated concepts like blood purity” came as no surprise following my interaction with the woman only days before however the assertion that Oorvegr had demanded her students practice harmful spells on the muggle and half blood students present was shocking. None was more shocking than the next revelation to come.

“It started with a Second Year. … The witch [Oorvegr] wanted to set us to actively hurting each other. And a little Second Year girl wanted to ask her a question. So she ran up to tug on her skirts. But a Durmstrang student cast a Revulsion Jinx on her to push her away from the witch. And so the witch instead cast a spell on … The Durmstranger. … So she cast on him, and he defended himself. I tried to cast a shield between them. Because he just about dropped his wand. Put it away, I think. He was really upset that he’d cast on her. And that’s when she cast the Cruciatus Curse on him”

The Department for Magical Law Enforcement were swift to respond and, following a brief standoff, Oorvegr was arrested – though not without a poor attempt at escape as Oorvegr blasted through the glass of the dueling classroom. Due to high activity within the Ministry of Magic The Daily Prophet has been unable to acquire a statement from the Auror Office in regards to the case.

Saffron Foxclaw, Current Events

[Turn to Page 2 for exclusive interviews with the Triwizard Tournament Champions]

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Despite the furor at Hogwarts casting a dark shadow over the Triwizard Tournament the trio of first, and second, champions cannot be forgotten as they’ve been thrust into the spotlight, representing their schools and proving their worth in tasks that will test their very mettle.

Wielding an unyielding wand of fir and phoenix feather the Hogwarts champion allowed me to wangle him for a few moments of his time. Elliott Reid quite literally set the trend of Head Students being chosen as Hogwarts champion, with musical savants Emily Neutron, Head Girl, being picked as his Nominated Second.

(For those who were not aware, a nominated second is the second best-of-the-best chosen by the Goblet of Fire to represent their school in the Triwizard Tournament, in the case of death or inability to continue.)

Reassuringly for the home team, the Hogwarts champion holds the wand of a survivor which apparently summed him up in a short sentence. Reassuringly, Mister Reid was able to elaborate on this, telling The Daily Prophet that he will never stop trying, the losses and failures he may have come across in life – and on the Quidditch Pitch – has only made him want to succeed more. The honour and pride he tells me he has, representing Hogwarts as Champion, is evident and the tall, attractive young man is determined to go far.

“Even if a task doesn’t go my way… I’ll be giving them a run for their money the next go. I won’t be backing down. No matter what happens.”

‘The wand of the warrior’ was how Jinxara Twigg of Ollivander’s described the wand of Cardan Duarte, Beauxbatons’ champion. One to give the other competitors a run for their money, Mlle Duarte appears to be confident in her abilities. Determination and strength, she believes, will help her take the Triwizard Cup. Devilishly attractive, petite, and blonde, Miss Duarte fits the Beauxbatons stereotype to a T. Her resolve and intrepid nature, however, sets her above the rest;

“If you are strong, your wand knows you, and it gets as strong as you are. The wand chooses the wizard, does it not? Strong wands choose strong wizards and witches. I am willing to sacrifice anything for the chance to win”

Tall, foreboding, and brute strength which is greatly reflected in the wand of Durmstrang champion, Lars Stangeland; walnut, dragon heartstring, and fifteen inches. A wand for the intelligent, the versatile, the adaptable. Herr Stangeland, however, doesn’t merely seek the glory of Triwizard Champion for himself, he hopes to bring the cup home for his school.

“It is not something anyone understands but in Durmstrang … We are not [[competing] for glory, like in Hogwarts. We are always [a] team, from [the] first day. If one of us fails, all of us fail. I have full trust in my comrades.”

The Nominated Second for Hogwarts, as previously mentioned, Emily Neutron boasts an ‘impressive’ alder wand bearing a dragon heartstring. Though Miss Neutron has minimal belief she will ever be called upon as Champion for Hogwarts she does believe herself to be, first and foremost, cheerleader for Mister Reid, supporting him in any way she can (rules permitting.)

The Beauxbatons aesthetic continues with the Nominated Second Sebastien Roumieux; blonde and handsome he was surrounded by admirers when interviewed. M. Roumieux has no doubt that Mlle Duarte will lead Beauxbatons to victory – a common theme and belief for each Nominated Second – seeing his role as leader of the school to encourage, and support her in her victory as Beauxbatons champion.

Gabriel Engstrom, however, eschews the notion that Durmstrang are merely supporters of their Champion, they are one;

“Durmstrang students are taught to be as one. The failure of one is the failure of all. The success of one is the success of all. I have no personal pride in this matter, only the pride of Durmstrang.”

With the assertions of Herr Engstrom echoing in my ears I leave behind Hogwarts for one week. The First Task is being prepared as I write and it is with eagerness that the Wizarding Community awaits next Saturday.

Tickets are to go on sale from Sunday 15th available in Hogsmeade and The Ministry of Magic atrium with prices starting at 50 galleons.

Saffron Foxclaw, Current Events

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The Township and British Ministry of Magic are pleased to announce the 75th Annual Little Lamplight Winter Open. Two days of Sport Dueling open to any amateur duelist.
Contact Ms Bonnie Nishi for further details

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In little over a week the Wizarding Community of Great Britain and Northern Ireland has found itself in significant turmoil following the vote for the Goblin’s Retreat from the British Wizarding Community (more colloquially known as “Gretreat”) passing by a narrow 60%.

Months of impassioned campaigning, days of debates in the Wizengamot Chambers, and it came down to mere hours for the vote to pass with the viewing gallery erupting into chaos as the passing vote was announced. It took minutes for accusations of a rigged vote to fly from the lips of none other than the Headmaster of Durmstrang Institute for Magical Learning, Matvey Golovin. In his next breath he declared his school will withdraw from the Triwizard Tournament, a magically binding contract, due to commence this October at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. In recent years Durmstrang Institute has become exceptionally supportive of the goblin community, even moving to accept goblins alongside muggleborn and halfblood students.

Following the explosive ending of the Wizengamot vote many questions have remained unanswered. Lark Rosewood, Head of the Department of Games and Sports, was quick to dispel rumours, telling Ms Foxclaw, of The Daily Prophet;

“There’s been some tension with Headmaster Golovin regarding the vote, sure, but these [things are] bound by signed contracts. A good deal of money’s already been put into this competition and the preparations, I assure [you], we’ll be going forward.” 

Reassuringly the Ministry of Magic has plans in place if Headmaster Golovin does continue in his efforts to break from tradition – though Ms Rosewood is adamant the event will continue in its traditional format.

When pressed with the suggestion that the Goblin’s funding of The Triwizard Tournament was a manipulative tactic to help sway the public to the ‘Gretreat’ side Ms. Rosewood dismissed the idea as nonsense, assuring that The Department of Magical Games and Sports had adequate funding for yearly major events – including the Tournament and The Quidditch World Cup last year – and even has a goblin member of staff in the department.

Beyond the Triwizard Tournament, the Wizarding public of Great Britain and Northern Ireland have felt the pinch with inflation skyrocketing due to the uncertainty following the ‘Gretreat’ vote. There have been reports of a mass exodus of wizarding money from Gringotts Bank with the doors closing early to prevent the economy destabilising further. Inflation currently sits at 200% with many touting that it looks to raise further, causing a massive damaging effect to local shops and businesses.

Dermot Trickelbank, Head of the Department of Magical Resources and Revenue, gave this statement to The Daily Prophet; 

The “Gretreat” vote has caused a fair bit of economic turmoil, as we had anticipated. Uncertainty around the issue including Gringotts’ position within the Wizarding world has led to some initial fears resulting in marketplace prices inflating by as much as 200% as we saw last Monday. Despite this, I urge everyone to see logic. Obviously we are still going to have an economy and things will likely work themselves out within a month’s time or so. If you were planning on divesting now, you will likely regret it by the end of the year when the dust has settled. 

In the coming weeks the negotiations for the Goblin’s Retreat from the British Wizarding Community will commence in what is expected to be a very heated and divisive showdown between the Ministry of Magic and the Goblin community. Supposedly hot on the agenda will be Gringotts Wizarding Bank being returned to goblin hands, and if Goblinkind will be allowed wands, and entry to Hogwarts.

Official Statement from the Ministry of Magic

Office of The Minister for Magic

The Ministry of Magic announces that the official beginning of the Goblin retreat has been voted on and approved by the Wizengamot and hereby declared official by The Minister for Magic Alyssa Merriweather with her signature.

I ask that during this time of upheaval and change within our community, people see reason and understand a different perspective should they not agree on the decision.

The Ministry of Magic and myself wish all the best to the Goblin community.   The public will be notified and updated when a deal has been made. I ask that you further trust us, as your Ministry of Magic to see this through within our best interest.

Regards,

Minister Merriweather.

Last Saturday the Ministry of Magic descended onto Hogsmeade with the village being evacuated and Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry waking to a complete lockdown. Until now the Ministry has remained tight lipped about what happened within the Forbidden Forest of Hogwarts and what caused Hogsmeade village to be entirely engulfed in flames.

New information has recently come to light following the announcement of the death of Auror, Eugene Longnecker and, if reports are to be believed, the thought-to-be-dead Agron Mordushku was behind the events.

Presumed dead from a house fire in August 2026, Agron Mordushku was found to be hiding in the Forbidden Forest in an attempt to recruit as he seemingly strived to be the next Dark Lord. The circumstances of his discovery are unclear, however there are reports that his loyal following were not quite as loyal as he had hoped. In recent months the Ministry of Magic was seen to descend upon Hogwarts Castle for undeclared reasons, though it does not take a genius to add the two together.

An inside source has confirmed that Mordushku did die during the Ministry led attack on the forest at the hands of Percius Fletcher. Fletcher attended with the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures, alongside the Auror Office, due to the reported complicity of the denizens of the Forbidden Forest. And during the assault, Hogwarts remained unnaturally quiet until red sparks were seen over the treetops and staff members joined the fray. Despite the combined efforts, Hogsmeade was one of the many victims that evening and the fires burned until the following morning. A Fund has been launched to help in the rebuilding of Hogsmeade and all donations should be sent to the Finance Office within the Ministry of Magic.

If rumours are to be believed, the Wizengamot are planning to award a select few with Orders of Merlin for their bravery during the altercation. Additionally, the Ministry of Magic will be holding a memorial for the fallen on the 25th April 2027.

A STATEMENT FROM THE MINISTER FOR MAGIC

In light of the recent events in Hogsmeade and The Forbidden Forest, the Ministry of Magic upholds the safety and livelihoods of all our wixen who live in our realm. In lieu of this, the Ministry of Magic pledges to help with funding and the reconstruction of Hogsmeade and provide extra funding to St Mungos to treat the wounded.

The Department of Control and Regulation of Magical Creatures will work as closely as they can with the creatures of the forest who have been displaced by whom we can now reveal as dark wizard Agron Mordidkhowtospellit.

As always, YOUR Ministry of Magic will be there in times of need.

Yours ever faithfully,

Minister Alyssa Merriweather.

Clean up fundraiser to go ahead

To coincide with Hogwarts’ monthly visit to Hogsmeade Village there will be a clean-up/fundraising operation on April 26th organised by Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and The Daily Prophet. It is rumoured that many familiar, famous faces will be present to assist.

Stefan Wartooth, of the Department of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes released this statement;

“The Department of Magical Accidents & Catastrophes (DMAC) sends their heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost family, friends, homes or businesses in the horrendous fire that ravaged Hogsmeade and the surrounding area. This disaster strikes close to home for many members in the Wizarding community.

“The DMAC is committed to both the short and long term renovations and has been putting the utmost importance on the rebuild and regrowth in the city of Hogsmeade. DMAC recognizes the heightened concern of residents at this time, and asks for all citizens to please share their concerns to the Head of the Department. We have recently updated our Emergency Operations Plans as well as increased the amount of employees focusing in the city to increase our ability to both plan for and respond to emergencies. We are committed to strengthening our ability to respond and increasing our capacity to support our community in the event of any disaster.

“To those who are sharing their support and devotion outside this city, we would like to thank you all for your gratitude and for a job well done. We are enthralled to see the amount of support the wizarding community has been sharing, including the many students from Hogwarts, who helped put out the fires that very day. Thank you all for your commitment to this community. Each of us has a role to play to keep our wizarding community safe and to care for each other before, during and after a disaster. Let’s work together to ensure we have the tools and knowledge necessary for this herculean task.”

All funds raised at the event, and any donations in the meantime, are to be directed to the Hogsmeade Rebuilding Fund, ℅ the Finance Office within the Ministry of Magic

Births, Deaths, Engagements, Weddings

Obituary: Eugene Longnecker

Eugene Longnecker, an auror for the Ministry of Magic and long time resident of Edinburgh, Scotland, was killed in action on April 4th, 2027 whilst fighting in the Forbidden Forest.

A memorial service will be held on April 25th at 12pm, at the Ministry of Magic with a private interment.

Eugene was born in Banchory, Scotland on March 10th, 1950 and graduated from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in 1968 and immediately entered the auror training programme. Eugene fought in both Wizarding Wars and returned from semi-retirement to the Ministry to train Aurors. He married Carol Longnecker (nee Gilpen) shortly after graduating and they were married for a short period until her untimely death in childbirth. Thomas Longnecker was born in 1973. Unfortunately at the age of 24 Thomas lost his life fighting the followers of you-know-who.

Little is known of Longnecker’s life following the fall of you-know-who at The Battle of Hogwarts until he returned to the Ministry in 2021 to train prospective aurors. Never one to shy away from fighting evil he returned to active duty when the peaceful life in Hogsmeade was threatened on April 4th and was slain whilst protecting the people he had spent his life sworn to protect.

In lieu of of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the Hogsmeade Rebuilding Fund.

Births

Geoffrey and Orelia Williams are proud to announce the birth of their fourth child, Walter, born on April 10th, at 9lb 13oz and 19 inches long. Mother and baby are resting at home.

Lane Cavanaugh and Musibella Ramotswe are proud to announce the birth of their baby boy, Meriadoc Imani on April 8th, at 4lb 5oz, and 13.5 inches long. Following a difficult labour, mother and baby are recuperating at home.

Engagements: Lysander Diaval & Persephone Vitrac

The families of Lysander and Persephone are excited to announce the upcoming nuptials. Persephone is the daughter of Verenice Vitrac, and Lysander the son of Cordelia Pines, they are both in their final year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Following graduation they will be celebrating their wedding in the summer prior to Persephone commencing her training at Ollivander’s, and Lysander beginning his own art company.

In other news

The sudden heat wave that has hit Scotland has brought with it another wave! Frogs of every variety appear to have made their way out of The Great Lake of Hogwarts and are making themselves known across the area.

The Minister for Magic has been made aware of the recent rumours concerning the forest occupying the land between Hogsmeade Village and Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The Minister would like to reassure the public that at present the Ministry of Magic has not deemed the forest to be any greater threat to public safety as it has been for the previous millennia. With regards to the forest, the Ministry of Magic’s official policy continues to be, as it has been since time immemorial, that the forest is a nature preserve for a wide variety of magical creatures of varying classifications, and as such should not be entered into by any person other than professionals officially ordained by the Ministry of Magic. The public should be aware that further magical protections have been put in place upon the perimeter of the forest. The Minister would like to impress upon the public that this interdiction is for the benefit of both the public and the ecosystem of magical fauna and flora whose home is the forest, and that reckless intrusion across the forest’s boundaries will result in spontaneous combustion.

Strange Creature Sightings Across Scotland

Residents from all across Scotland have been sending in reports of what appears to be an oversized toad. It has been reported that the creature shies away from human and magical contact, has not displayed any violent behaviour, and is considered non-threatening. Requests for insight from Magizoologists have been made, and the response has been that it is likely an anomaly or perhaps the after effects of a misplaced engorgement charm, and should be of no concern to the public.

Grave News from the Vampire Society

The Vampire Society have declared that their Hollowed Intercessor Lucille Bronach has been found destroyed. At this time it is not an open murder investigation and it has been deemed that Lucille’s passing was normal. The Vampire Society asks that the public respect their privacy at such times.

The Ministry’s Most Wanted

• Viktoria Lovelace – Grievous Assault, Attempted Murder, Murder
• Judy Dorchester – Treason and Conspiracy
• Atticus Brisbane – Murder
• Rupi Ghaia – Attempted Murder
• Beau Boggs – The Non-Consensual Use of Love Potion on Multiple Witches and Wizards
• Felix Vanwinkle – Illegal Use of Unauthorized Portkeys
• Woodrow Beck – Illegal Use of the Gemino Curse to Commit Fraud
• Buford Rantunte – Breach of the Statue of Secrecy
• Jubilee Willoughby – Theft of Golden Cauldrons Across England
• Osprey Pottinger – Smuggling of Illegal Magical Creatures

The Ministry of Magic reminds the general public that sightings of any of the following are to be reported discreetly and immediately. Do not approach any of these individuals. This list is updated frequently.

Suspiciously missing exam results are causing a “major disruption” to Hogwarts graduates.

Reports have slowly been trickling in that graduates and sixth year students have yet to receive their NEWT and OWL results, respectively. For several months speculation has been rife as to the cause of the delay though it appears that only within the last few days investigations into the matter have commenced.

Former Head Boy and Girl, Archibal Colquhoun and Aisling Jones told this reporter the same story; missing results and no word as to why. Thankfully for the two they have been able to find work without their NEWT results though others have not been as lucky.

Aoife O’Keeffe, Headmistress of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, told The Daily Prophet she had been previously unaware of the concerns until raised by a sixth year student directly to the Department of Magical Education.

“It is a very immediate concern that many students are missing their OWL and NEWT results,” O’Keeffe told The Daily Prophet. “Hogwarts has been in contact with the Department of Magical Education and we are hoping for a thorough investigation into these claims.”

The Head of Examinations, former Hogwarts Professor Arklin Owsley, was approached for comment. Whilst strongly advising The Daily Prophet to drop the article, Mister Owsley also attempted to claim that the issue was untrue, and yet also not yet in the public knowledge, though clearly the claims of Mr Owsley are false following multiple reports from new graduates alone.

In a shocking twist Mister Owlsey threatened The Daily Prophet reporter, Saffron Foxclaw;

“I don’t know how you came about it, but I suggest you keep quiet, and not speak on which you don’t know. Nothing worth putting in the Prophet”

If this reporter was aghast at the notion that a Ministry official would attempt to quash an important publication there was more to come.

Assistant to the Minister for Magic, Michel St Jours’s official statement was miles apart from the subversive tone that the conversation took. In place of this exposé I was offered insider information on upcoming laws however The Daily Prophet declined the offer. Mister Owsley appeared to further dig his own hole by telling the Minister for Magic’s Assistant that the claims brought to them were entirely falsified first by an angry ex-wife and more importantly by a disgruntled student – one who apparently has been chosen as the British Youth Representative of the Wizengamot. The plot thickens, is this student a liar – as purported by Mister Owsley – or a trusted young witch by the higher ups of Hogwarts?

Regardless of this, Michel St Jours reassured the public that, in regards to the missing grades;

“If that is the case, I want it sorted and each remaining examination result delivered before the weekend.”

Despite whispers of destroyed papers after the Hogwarts attack last June, funding cuts affecting the Department of Education’s workforce, and rumours of lost results due to the Departments frequency of Leaky Cauldron visits, this may be the least of the new Minister for Magic’s problems following this reporter’s experience of blackmail and bribery within the Ministry.

Good luck to all students awaiting their results, hopefully there will be cause to celebrate come Monday.

Dragon Dealing Gone Wrong

The atmosphere in the lower chambers of the Ministry of Magic was a sombre one this Sunday afternoon as Mardella Wraith, 31, was brought to the Wizengamot on charges of dragon breedings and dealing a Class-A non tradeable item; a dragon egg. The Wizengamot appeared entirely unaffected by Ms Wraith’s heart rending story of unwell family back in America. If she is to be believed she was offered the opportunity to sell a stranger a dragon egg – after stumbling across a dragon and her eggs – to help fund her muggle relative’s treatment however she declined. Though admitting to contemplating the offer, Ms Wraith never sold a dragon’s egg and yet, interestingly, still ended up in front of the Wizengamot. Despite no evidence that Ms Wraith had bred dragons nor actually trading dragon eggs she was found guilty of conspiracy to trade dragon eggs.

It appears that the inaction of the Ministry in some regards has led to wild overreaction and overzealous action in others. I would strongly advise every witch and wizard carefully watch their actions and thoughts – either legal or otherwise – if this case is anything to go by.