~*Fragments of Yesterday*~

Chapter Seven: Owl Post

Hello again, everyone!  I bring to you the chapter comprised entirely of letters that the first years are sending home.  It's sort of a scattered look at the month of November from the eyes of the little ones… there are some laughs, some sad things, and some horrible ones.  Spelling errors are intentional (particularly in Xavier Bulstrode's letter), because no all eleven-year-olds can write like Abigail the Encyclopedia.  Enjoy muchly!  Look forward to Christmastime in the next chapter!!!  Most of the students are going home, but for those who aren't, what lies in store?  And what is this James mentions in his letter about bad news?  And just how much shall the Restriction of Underage Wizardry be flouted?  Oh, you'll see… will you ever see.  Now, go forth and enjoy the fic!

Disclaimer: I want Draco for Christmas.  Anyone want to give him to me?

This chapter is dedicated to the prosecuting attorney who stood against me today for the city of Greeley and relented halfway through and suggested my case be dropped because I was "such a sweet girl".

Owl from Lily Evans to Harold and Alanna Evans, November 3, 1971

Dear Mummy and Daddy,

I'm sorry about not writing for the past two weeks.  A very annoying boy named James Potter (you remember me telling you about him) transfigured Athena into a bunny, and after Abigail turned her back, she jumped at shadows and refused to deliver anything.  Stupid boy!

Well, she's all right now, and I can write again!  How have you been?  Did you have a pleasant Halloween?  Halloween at Hogwarts was amazing… there were jack-o'-lanterns hanging in mid-air, Nearly Headless Nick sung early Italian arias (I'm not entirely sure why, though Abigail, who speaks Italian, said they were tragic) and Headmaster Dumbledore brought in butterbeer from Hogsmeade for all of us.  I hadn't tried it before, because first and second years can't go into town, but I loved it!  If I can procure a bottle, I'll send some home.  I think you'll enjoy it.  It makes you feel all warm and relaxed inside.

School has been going well.  I recently got back a perfect Charms essay with lavish praise from Professor Flitwick scribbled upon it.  I think that Charms is going to be my best subject.  But I hate Astronomy with a passion!  I don't see much of a reason for it, but if they say I have to take it, I have to take it.

I'm looking forward to seeing you both next month over Christmas.  I'll be at King's Cross at 7:00 pm on December 13th.  Molly says her mother has offered to get me if you can't make the journey.  What do you think?

Oh dear.  It seems Lottie has managed to hack off the Slytherin boys again.  They're clamoring at the door to the common room for us to "bring out that little…" Well, as a matter of fact, I won't even write a word like that.  But I think maybe I had best go on crowd control.  You'll like Lottie, I think, Mum.  She's adventurous-kind of like you.

Love,

Your Little Lily

P.S. Is Petunia coming home for holiday?  Please say no!

Owl from Sirius Black to Natalie Black, November 3, 1971

Mum,

            For the love of God, Mother, stop sending inquiries to Professor McGonagall as to my behavior!  I haven't been expelled yet, have I?  If I am, I promise they'll let you know with or without incessant nagging.

Love,

Sirius

Owl from Lottie Christianson to Helen Christianson, November 5, 1971

Dear Mum,

Hello!  As you enquired in your last letter, I am required to tell you that yes, I have been behaving myself.  Mostly.  Lily's reading over my shoulder and giggling.  I think she doesn't believe me.  Silly Lily!  I haven't been in detention for over a week. There, that should make you happy.

Thank you for sending me cookies, by the way.  All of Gryffindor Tower enjoyed them and send their thanks.  Regina Deacon begs you for the recipe.

Oh!  Kindly tell Mrs. Snape that if her son attempts to kill me again, she will no longer have a son.

Lots of love from

Lottie

Owl from Abigail Gordon to Keaira Gordon, November 5, 1971

Dear Mother,

            Thank you for your previous letter.  The extra study guide was most welcome, as was the package of lionfish spikes.  I was nearly out.  Your help in Potions has been invaluable.

            As to your inquiry, I am still at the top of my classes.  Headmaster Dumbledore seems very pleased with me.  I am making perfect marks in everything excepting Potions and Transfiguration.  In both of these classes I have surpassed the expectations of my professors and am receiving over a hundred percent.  That should please you.

            I would like to inform you that Amanda and Xavier are not getting along.  Perhaps you should write to Aunt Janet and suggest that the two spend more time together?  I would hate to see an engagement that is so advantageous to the family fail.  Amanda may pout about it now, but it's only for her own good, after all.  Besides, Xavier is such a… suitable boy.

            I'm afraid I must go, for it's dinnertime, and I don't want to miss it after I missed lunch today to study, or the professors will wonder.  Yes, mother, I'm very carefully watching my weight.  Don't worry.

Sincerely yours,

Abigail

Owl from Amanda Layton to Janet Layton, November 7, 1971

Dear Mother,

            I refuse to discuss the idea of Xavier Bulstrode.  He's repulsive and hasn't enough brains to fill a thimble.  I ask you to kindly reconsider.  Furthermore, if this insistence that I spend some time alone with him is Abigail's doing, kindly tell Aunt Keaira for me that her daughter has become an impudent, good-hearted Gryffindor twerp.  And has been eating pastries with her dinner.  I think her robes may be getting tight around the middle…

Your daughter,

Amanda

Owl from Marcus Welch to Paul Welch, November 7, 1971

Dear Dad,

            I'm having Amelia write this letter on account of being in the hospital wing again.  They simply don't understand that man is not meant to fly!  Stop sniggering, Amelia, it isn't funny.

            In any case, it's a compound fracture this time, and Madam Pomfrey has promised to release me in a few days.  I've managed to keep up with my homework, more or less.  Tell Mum not to worry about me, there doesn't seem to be any lasting damage.  Amelia asks if she may add "except to my brain."  I am trying very hard to remember your rule about not hitting girls, Dad.

            In any case, I'm going to stop dictating before I strangle her.  Trust me to ask a girl to write my letters.  For all I know, she's going to put hearts and flowers all over it.  Girls are silly!  No, Amelia, don't pour that ink over the letter!

            Oh, for the love of Merlin.  Disregard the ink-stain, please.

Love,

Marcus

P.S. Mister Welch, did you know your son was insufferable?

-Amelia Burke

Owl from Madoc Gwyn to Glynnis Gwyn, November 7, 1971

Mum,

            No, my hair isn't a "normal color" yet.  I really don't mind.  You don't have to send me to a specialist to cure it, for Merlin's sake.

            My class-work is going well.  Enclosed, you will find a near-perfect Charms essay to prove it.

            I'm wondering if you could buy me some fireflower pollen?  I need it for a potion, and they won't let the students use the school stores except for class-work.  This is a sort of… extra credit.  Please?  You won't have to send me spending money for a week.

            Katharine says to tell you hello.  Tell Mrs. Breslin hello as well, and that I wish she would send us some of her pumpkin pie.  No one makes it like she does.  I miss you, and I'll see you over Christmas.

Love,

Madoc

P.S. If I were thinking of getting a girl a Christmas present (hypothetically), what would I get her?

Owl from Xavier Bulstrode to Irana Bulstrode, November 8, 1971

Mum,

            Send me more munny.  I dont have enuf for candy agan.  Edan stol it all.

Xavier

Owl from James Potter to David, Tabitha and Sabrina Potter, November 8, 1971

Mum, Dad, and Bena,

            Hello all!  Sorry it's been such a while since I've written.  I've been busy.  With schoolwork.  Is Sabrina giggling?  Tell her to sod off.  Sorry, Mum, sorry.

            School is going well, and I've proven myself with a fine hand at Potions-yes, I know, of all classes.  Incidentally, there is a bloke… sorry, a boy here named Severus Snape who seems to detest me for the sole reason that I'm neck and neck with him in Potions.  Never mind that Abigail Gordon is ahead of both of us-apparently, his hatred only extends to the males of the species.  The species being Gryffindors, naturally.

            How's primary school treating you, Bena?  You want to quit yet?  School's a nasty business, generally, but you're lucky to be going to a school run by wizards.  I've met a few fellows here who went to Muggle primary school, and a lot of perfectly simple things (such as moving illustrations in books) absolutely astound then.  But then again, can you imagine pictures that don't move?  Honestly!  Do well in all your classes-you'll love it here when you come in a few years.

            Dad, there have been some really disturbing developments in the paper… it feels like they're hushing it all up.  Dark activity up north somewhere, a Muggle presumed dead by unnatural means… it worries me.  Owl me, will you, and tell me what's really going on?  I'm a big boy, I can take it.

            Mum, take care of yourself, and please don't believe anything Mrs. Black tells you.  We're really not that bad.  Your last owl from the school was last month.  That's not so bad!

            I love you all and miss you!  I can't wait till Christmas, and yes, I remember that I'm not to give any sort of charmed sweets to Sabrina.

            I'll just sneak them into her sock drawer instead.  That's not "giving".

            Only joking!

Love,

James

Owl from Narcissa Caligo to Deanna Caligo, November 10, 1971

Dear Mother,

            I thank you for your concern over my recent stay in the hospital wing.  Please don't worry, there isn't any need.  It was only a few bruises, because I was clumsy and fell down the stairs to my dormitory.  I'm really all right now.

            Lucius has been doing quite well, and thanks you for asking.  It was very kind of you to remember him.  As you say, he is a wonderfully suitable young man.

            My studies have been going quite well, but I have remembered what you said and spend some time every day with the other members of my house.  It is just like society back home.

            Unfortunately, I have to go.  My eye isn't fully unswollen yet, and it is hard to see the parchment properly in the candlelight.  I'll write again soon and tell you more about what has been going on in the Slytherin dungeon. 

For a bit of gossip, without which I know you will not leave me in peace, Lucius looked kindly upon my new silver robes.  Thank you for sending them.

Your dutiful daughter,

Narcissa

Owl from Remus Lupin to Wynne Lupin, November 10, 1971

Dear Mum,

            I just got out of the hospital wing yesterday.  It seems like this is going to work after all.  I told James, Sirius and Peter that I went to Great-aunt Agatha's funeral.  It's a pity I never had a Great-aunt Agatha.  Last month, you were meant to be ill but it was cloudy the night of the fourth, and I ended up serving detention instead.  It was a welcome change. In September, Dad needed me for something or another.  I'm going to be hard-pressed to make up enough convincing stories, but…

I can't believe I'm saying this, but I miss the tighter quarters at home.  The place where they've set me up is much bigger, and there's more for me to destroy.  On the second of November during the last fool moon, I managed to get a wooden spike embedded in my leg somehow.  It was horrible.

            Madam Pomfrey dealt with me as though she deals with this sort of thing every day.  It's gratifying, although Abigail Gordon noticed the scratches on my arms and asked what at Great-aunt Agatha's funeral had been so dangerous.  She's very intelligent.

            I am glad I got to go to school.  It's the best thing that's ever happened to me.  Bless Headmaster Dumbledore.  Give my love to Dad and pass on my hellos to Antonia whenever she comes home to visit.  I hope your week's been much better than mine.

Love,

Remus

Owl from Davey Gudgeon to John Gudgeon, November 11, 1971

Dad,

            Thanks for owling me, but the fireproof cloak wasn't necessary, kind as the gesture was.  If Sirius Black is determined to set me aflame, he'll do it, cloak or no.  The scary part is, he doesn't even do it on purpose.

            Well, Remus, one of their little group, was missing for a few days and I got some respite.  He's back today, but he looks quite sick.  He must have loved his Great-aunt Agatha very much.  Tell Great-aunt Martha I love her next time you see her, will you?

            I'll be seeing you in a month, unless one of the four manages to kill me entirely.  I love you, Dad!

Your homesick son,

Davey

Owl from Angela Avila to Michael, Mary, and Michelle Avila, November 12, 1971

Mummy, Daddy and Shelly,

            Thank you for your letter!  It was like a little taste of home.  I see Michelle was already home from Sweden when I owled-yes, of course I was glad to see your handwriting, Shelly, awful as it is.  I miss my big sister!  School has been wonderful, and everyone is very nice.  Ravenclaw Tower is becoming very friendly, and Madoc has set about teaching me to play chess.  We usually play a match after dinner before starting our homework.  I've never had to stay up all night studying yet, but I'm prepared for whenever it's necessary.

            The end of term exams are coming soon, and I'm already studying diligently.  After all, we come home in a month!  Oh, I can't wait to see all of you… I've missed my family so much.  Some of the other children aren't homesick at all.  I think it's sad… but I'm lucky to have you.  Will the entire family be coming in for Christmas like last year?  How is Grandma doing, by the way?  I owled her a while back, but I guess she hasn't had a chance to reply.  Kiss her on both cheeks for me and tell her I can't wait to see her either.

            Oh, Katharine and Jane have just come in bearing a pie.  How they manage to get food up here, I'll never know.  I have a feeling they're breaking rules to get it, so I don't dare ask.  But it is awfully nice to have hot pie on such a cold day.  I'll see you soon!  I love you, miss you, and send you many kisses!

XOXO,

Your Angel

Owl from Lucius Malfoy to Gustave Malfoy, November 13, 1971

Father,

            A month more before I can get out of this hellhole.  It's a pity you didn't send me to Durmstrang.  Everyone's so very… good and righteous here.  It makes me sick.  Narcissa's been quite silent about it all; I wonder why.  Most of the other girls complain incessantly about the mudbloods running amuck in this place, but not her.  I suppose since she's one of the best-looking girls in the year, it's not a surprise.  They don't bother her as much as they bother that hideous Veronica Clarke for example-though I do wonder why she isn't feeling insulted by their constant stares and advances?  That prat of a Gryffindor, Remus Lupin, said hello to her when they were both in the Infirmary last week.  If it had been any other girl in Slytherin, she would have been mortified.  But Narcissa actually said "hello" back.  Perhaps she hasn't been taught proper conduct yet?  Well, she'll learn.

            I managed to get a hold of the caretaker's cat and torture her a bit a few days ago-stupid squib-and then pass the blame on Peter Pettigrew, who just happened to be around to pick on.  That I consider a job well done, especially since the cat sliced his face to ribbons before Filch even got to him.  Squibs should stick together, as Desdemona so aptly says.

            In short, everything's been as well as can be expected around here.  I've got a few intelligent cronies in Ian and Severus, and a couple of "minions" in Valentine and Xavier.  They're useful, for all they're so stupid.  Just the other day, they frightened some Hufflepuff girl into hysterics in Transfiguration and got points taken off.  Good.  The Hufflepuffs can all go to hell anyway.

            I can't wait to come home over Christmas for some civilized company.  Do tell Mother I say hello.

Your son,

Lucius

Owl from Peter Pettigrew to Philomela Pettigrew, November 15, 1971

Dearest Mummy,

            Can't I come home sooner?  I am enjoying my new friends, but examenashons (is that how you spell it?) have me scared stiff!  I'm afraid I will fail Potions, despite all the help that James is giving me.  In any case, it is nice here.  Lottie Christianson had some cookies a while ago, and they were a great success.  We don't have nearly enough sweets here.  Yes, I'm hinting!

            Christmas is just around the corner!  What would you like?  I've been saving money so I can get everyone nice gifts this year.  I haven't ever had so many friends before, though!  I'm getting everything ahead of time by owl order because Abigail Gordon said it would be cheaper that way, and she's smart.

            Oh, also, may I go to James' house On December 26th?  He's invited all of us.  Please, Mummy?

Love,

Peter

Owl from Candy Allen to Cory and Karen Allen, November 16, 1971

Hello Mum and Dad!

            I've been doing well, thank you for asking.  Dad, your owl is so old it's a disgrace!  At least one of us needs a new one.  For Christmas perhaps?  Oh, and may I have your old broom next year?  I'm not allowed one right now, but it would be nice to learn to fly better.  Madam Hooch stopped us at "proficient", and that's not good enough for me!  Besides, Velvet's zooming around like she spent her whole life riding a broomstick!  It's unfair!

            Other than that, life's been wonderful.  It's snowing for the first time tonight.  It's after hours, but four of the boys in my year went out anyway the second they saw the snow.  Of course, this was their first night out of detention in a very long while.  I suppose they wanted some fun.  Although sneaking out after hours when one lives in detention… well.  Lottie says detention is fun.  All five of them are absolutely nutters.

            There were great big coffee pots full of cocoa and cups in the common room when we got back from dinner, though.  How is it I never see these house-elves?  They must be better than Grandma's is.  I see Talli all the time.  I don't think she could be inconspicuous if it killed her.

            Sipping cocoa, writing a letter, and petting Splotch (Lottie's off somewhere again, and Lily's studying, so the cat comes to me as a substitute for affection)… could you think of a nicer evening?  I only wish there wasn't a History of Magic essay to do yet tonight.  Yes, of course I'll do it.  Eventually.  I just don't want to think about Grindelwald when it's snowing!

            I love and miss you… I can't wait to see you next month!

Hugs and kisses from

Candy

Owl from Severus Snape to Sybilla Snape, November 17, 1971

Mother,

            For the love of Merlin, inform Mrs. Christianson that if her daughter tries to frame me one more time, she will no longer have a daughter.  That girl is so sneaky, she deserves to be in Slytherin.  Except if she was, I'd have killed her already.

            In other news, school is going well.  My marks are passable, but I am excelling in Potions… Professor Macnair seems very pleased with my progress.  We're working on different levels of sleeping potions… we had our choice as to which one we would write about in our last essay.  I picked the Draught of Living Death.  Never let it be said I go for the easy ones.

            In other news, Narcissa Caligo is still queening it over all of us.  I know you've explained why she's so important, but really… the girl has far too high an opinion of herself.  Then again, I'm down on the social ladder too, so I really shouldn't talk.  I know how pleased you are that Lucius and I have become friends.  It's a step up in the right directions.

            But really… I can see why he looks down on some of these people. But torturing cats?  It's just a dumb animal, after all.  That, in my opinion, was low of him.  Well, I'm not one to judge.

            I'm staying at Hogwarts over Christmas, on account of Lottie going home.  I need a break from her.  Perhaps we can alternate holidays?

Love,

Severus

Owl from Patricia Wells to Cameron and Theresa Wells, November 18, 1971

Mum and Dad,

            I only have time for a short letter.  This one includes pictures of me, finally.  Keenan Harrison took them.  My hair's grown out a bit, as you can see.  But be advised I still fully intend to murder Sirius Black for it over Christmas.  I find it insulting when all you can say is "be more careful around him," Dad!  You're supposed to be on my side.

            My marks are good-you'll be pleased when they send home a report at the end of the fall term.  But Mum, remind me to ask you for help with my Herbology homework.  You're good with that, and I'm really struggling.  Cecilia Starello has been tutoring me, but I'd love some help from you as well.

            Ah, well, here comes Cecilia now.  I've got to get my homework done.  I promise to send a longer letter next week!

Love,

Patricia

Owl from Velvet Lindley to Charlie and Jill Lindley, November 20, 1971

Mum and Dad,

            How are you?  I'm fine.  I really like to fly.  It's fun.  I wish it wasn't snowing so that we could still have flying lessons.  Madam Hooch says I show promise.  I want to play Quidditch someday!

            Candy says her dad is going to London to get us when we come home.  Have they talked to you about it?  I suppose since you're Muggles, getting to London in such a short time would be hard.  Unless you've gone and sold the apartment.

            Have you?

            School is all right, but I want to go home.  I like vacation better.

            Can I have a broom for Christmas?

Love,

Velvet

Owl from Lily Evans to Alanna Evans, November 21, 1971

Dear Mum,

            Thank you for replying so promptly.  I know the flight to Ireland is still a strain on poor little Athena.  She's growing up right before my eyes, though!  She'll be up to trans-oceanic journeys by this time next year.  I'm glad to hear you're well, and Dad as well.  Too bad Petunia's coming home, but it was to be expected, I suppose.  If she tries to savage me, my owl, or any of my school things, I reserve the right to turn her into a slug.

            I said I wouldn't turn her into a toad.  I said nothing about slugs.

            It's been snowing steadily for the past few days.  Herbology's been canceled, so I've had more free time than usual.  I've found some interesting books on advanced Charms theory.  I really want to show you what I've learned!  Perhaps if Mrs. O'Malley's around to supervise?

            Speaking of the O'Malleys, I've talked to Molly again, and she says you're coming with Mrs. O'Malley to get me!  How on earth?  Does floo work for Muggles, I wonder?  If it doesn't, how will you get to London and back?  Well, it doesn't matter in any case, because I'm madly looking forward to seeing you soon!  Your letters are wonderful, but I just want to hug my mum.

            Oh great.  James Potter just sneaked a peek over my shoulder, smirked, and called me a mama's girl.  I hate him!  I had best go so that the ink doesn't get spilled when I attempt to kill him.  I can't wait to see you, Mummy!

Lots and lots of love,

Lily