I Realise Your Potential

Nymphadora Isabelle Tonks,

I know that you used to hate your special abilities. Who wouldn't, considering that the kids at school used to tease you for it? I hope that over time you will come to realise what I also realise. That your gift could be the very thing that makes you one of the best Aurors I've ever seen.

I know that you've spent many hours wondering about your aunts. Wondering how they could be so cruel as to abandon your mother when she needed them. This drive to learn more will be essential to your development over the years. It will lead to your full potential.

I know you used to get teased by the Slytherins because your father is a Muggleborn. You used to be embarrassed about that, until you realised that it made you a better witch. It helped you to understand how the other side lived, having seen it through the eyes of your grandparents. It taught you compassion, which is what's going to get you further than you can imagine in this line of work, to help you realise your potential.

I know the real reason you have joined our ranks. You want revenge on your Aunt Bellatrix for all the hurt she caused your mother. As your mentor, I tell you to keep that inside you, to have that as your goal and you'll do fine. As your friend I tell you that revenge missions always end badly and not to try. Look at poor Peter Pettigrew, see where he ended up. I realise your potential Tonks, and I don't want to see it wasted.

I know that you've given up a lot to be here today, including a chance to love Charles Weasley. While I understand that at the moment there's nothing you'd rather do than join us, I hope the day comes that you realise your full potential. You will make some lucky man an excellent wife, and be a fantastic mother. Never forget that in spite of how important what we do is, family is even more so. Good luck in your life, and I look forward to seeing you realise your potential. All of it.

As of 3:00 this afternoon, you will no longer be my student, but my colleague instead. It's been three long years since you arrived in my office, a scared young girl of 17 and now you've blossomed into a beautiful young woman before my very eyes.

I realise you potential Agent Tonks,

Alastor 'Mad-Eye' Moody

Two nights after Moody's death, Tonks sat in the darkened window of her parents' house. As she reread the letter he'd given her the day of her graduation from the Auror Academy, the tears finally came. From behind her came a soothing sound as Lupin wrapped his arms around her. Together they sat, lost in memories of a man that had taught them more then he'd ever realise.