Tom I found the most exciting book!
More exciting than me?
Why? Are you jealous?
No. Don't be ridiculous.
Are you still upset that I have another diary?
I was never upset! I just think it's unfair that you never talk to me about anything interesting.
I talk to you about lots of interesting things.
I mean interesting by my definition Luna, not yours.
Fine. What do you want to talk about?
I...well...I can't think of anything right now...you haven't given me any time.
Well what areas interest you?
Since you are asking, I always liked the dark arts.
I like that too.
You do?
Yes. Defence is a great subject. With the right teacher of course. I already told you about Professor Lupin didn't I?
The werewolf? Yes I recall he likes to place children in front of mildly dangerous creatures with very little preparation and let you fight them.
That's not quite what I said. You make it sound terrible.
It's not exactly the best method I've ever heard.
It's learning through experience.
Experience comes with time. Children are not always equipped for such things. Case in point; you mentioned a Boggart.
Yes. So?
I can only imagine his aim was to help you children to conquer any irrational fears you might have.
Yes. I suppose that was the point.
Well the failing there is that not all fears are irrational. Assuming that children have nothing genuine to be afraid of is just irresponsible. Take you for example.
My greatest fear is Venomous Tanacular Toads.
I know that. And I am very disappointed that I wasn't able to stand witness when that showed up in the middle of a classroom I assure you.
It was quite funny seeing everyone's faces. They seemed just as frightened when I turned it into a pulley-tot though. I can't imagine why.
It's a true mystery. My point is, you lost your mother at a young age. It was highly possible your greatest fear might have been losing your father as well. How would you have felt if you had suddenly been confronted with the sight of his corpse right there in a classroom in front of all your classmates?
Oh...that would have been awful. I see what you mean.
I just feel that a little more common sense should be applied. I'm sure for many of the children that approach will be excellent but for others it could do more harm than good.
You're right. I might mention it to him.
If you like. Anyway that's not quite what I meant.
What isn't?
I said I liked dark arts. Not defence.
Oh. That's...not really an area I have much interest in.
I didn't think it would be.
Why do you like it?
It's just interesting. It takes magic to its full potential. Levels that most people are too afraid to explore.
For good reason.
True. But that's what makes it exciting.
I suppose I can understand that. As a Ravenclaw the discovery and development of magical practices has always had an appeal. I can see how the unique possibilities offered through the study of the dark arts would be tempting.
Maybe when you're older you could look into it?
Maybe. Maybe not. It's not something I would think about now.
Fair enough. Anyway, you mentioned a most exciting book?
That you are certainly not jealous of.
Just tell me already.
It's fascinating. It details the journey of these delightful creatures called Hobbits.
I'll bet it can't teach you how to fight a dementor.
True, but equally you can't teach me how to outrun an army of orc's.
What in Merlin's name is an orc?
I'm glad you asked Tom...