3 February, 2003

Miss Luna Lovegood,

Editor-in-Chief of The Quibbler

Miss Lovegood,

We have never before corresponded and I am quite aware that this may seem quite untoward, but I implore you - please keep reading. I have an incredible and rare opportunity to offer you. But first, let me begin by saying that I am and have been a devoted fan and follower of The Quibbler, your work, and your father's work since I was a boy. I was a student at Hogwart's while you were in attendance but I never mustered the courage to approach you. If I may be so forward as to say, you are quite intimidating. Your profound and unmatched intelligence coupled by your achievements with the publication have left me in awe.

My name is Rolf Scamander. My late great-grandfather was Newton Scamander, the author of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Following the events of the Second War, I seem to have fallen into his footsteps and am now a magizoologist. In fact, my career path is the reason why I am writing to you.

I am planning on compiling a supplementary volume to my great-grandfather's book. I will go through each and every beast, travelling to whatever part of the globe that they inhabit, and update the files that he compiled. I intended on studying the changes in the beasts habitats, behavior, et cetera, etc. And I am requesting that you, Miss Lovegood, accompany me on this journey.

If you're still reading, and I desperately hope that you are, you're undoubtedly asking yourself why I sought you out, after never before having met. As I mentioned previously, I am a devoted fan of your work and have noticed the turn that The Quibbler has taken since you took over editorship from your father. Quite plainly, your articles (the ones that you personally quill) are naturalist in nature. I understand you to be an accomplished Herbologist, specializing in rare and exotic flora species. Accompanying me in my journey will offer your the opportunity to visit very remote locations - all over the world - and to study flora to your heart's content. And, if I may be so bold to suggest, perhaps broaden your sights to the fauna that we will encounter. I've also singled you out as a co-author to this supplementary volume. Your expertise in Herbology and mastery over language will be absolutely essential in completing this project. (Naturally, you will receive credit as co-author and we will share any profits that are made.)

I've taken up enough of your time. I plan on setting out on the expedition by the end of September, this year. All arrangements have been made and expenses, paid. All that remains is for you to consider my proposal. Please write me with any questions that you have and I will respond as soon as I possibly can. If you decide to accept, I would love to arrange a meeting to discuss details.

I will be eagerly awaiting your owl.

Yours very sincerely,

Rolf Scamander

Luna read the letter three more times before she allowed herself a moment to even consider the possibility of accepting Mr. Scamander's offer. She was very familiar with Newt Scamander's iconic work and the idea of playing a central role in a supplementary volume was... Well, it was the most exciting thing to happen to Luna in months.

Since Harry had essentially killed the mockery of the relationship they shared months before.

Luna squeezed her eyes shut. You will not think about him, damn it, she coached herself. Luna took a deep breath and opened her eyes, searching for a quill and a spare roll of parchment. At the very least, she would request a meeting with him to discuss the trip - without obligating herself to the journey. Before she could dip her quill into the pot of ink, the bell sounded at the door. Luna sighed.

"Coming! Just a moment," she called, as she made her way to the front door. She couldn't remember the last time she had a visitor call on her... or a friend for that matter. In fact, it had been a long time since she considered her personal life. It was easier that way.

Luna pulled open her door to reveal a very nervous Hermione Granger on her front steps. She struggled to hide her surprise and Hermione's cheeks tinged pink.

"Luna, hello. I'm glad that you're here," Hermione said, by way of greeting.

"Hello, Hermione. To what do I owe this pleasure?" Luna opened her door further, inviting Hermione into her home. The other woman hesitated, staring into the room beyond. Luna offered her a small smile. "Don't worry. I never had the erumpent horn replaced." Hermione blanched, which only confirmed Luna's suspicions. "And my father no longer lives her. Come along, Hermione. I'll make us tea."

Hermione nodded and squared her shoulders. "But before I come in," she began. Luna turned and glanced at Hermione from over her shoulder. "You should really know that I've come to talk about Harry and what happened between the two of you." Hermione stared at Luna, no doubt analyzing her reaction.

Luna sighed, her shoulders slumping. "I s'pose that a large pot of tea is in order then."

Hermione nodded once more and followed Luna inside.