Virginia walked silently to the execution dock. A wizard stopped her just as she reached the door.
" Sorry Miss... you cant go in there."
" Why not?"
" There's an execution taking place today. Belletrix Lestrange. People are placing bets on how long she'll last... I reckon about three hits of whatever spell they choose. I wouldn't be picky... it's supposed to be painfull."
" Cant I go in and see?"
" Im afraid not Miss. Not even family or victims are allowed in... it's not pretty. Who are you?"
" Ah... I'm a reporter for the ... ah daily prophet " lied Virginia.
" You look fairly young for a reporter. How old are you?"
" Just gone seventeen Sir."
" Hah... your only a girl... you cant be a reporter."
" Did I not tell you already. Oh I am most sorry Sir. I'm a student reporter. I am learning about the profession of writing and ah...ah... capturing the most breath taking stories in our wizarding world."
" But school hasn't started yet."
Virginia sighed. For a security guard he sure was irratating.
" I've been working all summer " said Virginia. I have to go in there."
" Look Miss... I've got my orders... keep everyone out and thats it... it's clear as water."
Virginia cursed under her breath.
" Hey... there's no need for foul language. You should be celebrating... a day like this... when you know who's follower is being killed. Some of us can sleep soundly tonight."
" You have no idea " muttered Virginia.
" Now that I think about it " said the wizard. " You do look familar. Have I seen you before?"
" I doubt it " said Virginia.
" You look very like Lestrange."
" And now you resort to insults " said Virginia.
" No offence meant " said the wizard. " Just an observation thats all."
" Would you be so kind to let me in? asked Virginia impatiently. " It would save complications."
" Complications?"
" Yes " smiled Virginia. " It would mean. I wouldn't have to stun you , steal your keys and then erase your memory. You can see where the complications come in... if I have to do that... so if you would..."
" You're a feisty girl " said the wizard. " But even with your quick wit and charm , I cant let you in... funny joke though."
Virginia sighed raised her wnad and shouted stupify. She sighed again as she bent down and removed the keys from his hand. " For the record " said Virginia. " I was serious."
