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Post by G. Novella on Mar 30, 2013 18:57:33 GMT -5
John sighed and began explaining the very bare details of the case to Alexander, who remained stoically silent during the conversation. Alexander looked thoughtful at John's question, as he glanced at the dancers, taking a sip if his wine.
"I've heard of some spells, but not quite of this nature," said Alexander finally, "What have you gathered so far on the bodies? Have any been found?"
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Post by eskimoRock on Mar 30, 2013 19:00:17 GMT -5
"I don't believe so, no." Albert frowned. "It's all very peculiar."
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Post by ginnyrules27 on Mar 30, 2013 20:15:15 GMT -5
Entering the atrium of the Ministry, August raked a hand through his short hair. Though that idea was easier said than done due to Iffy's affinity for hair gel. Looking at the slime covered hand, he quickly wiped it off on his handkerchief kept in his side pocket just for emergencies.
Not that he would ever admit it to his daughter, but August loathed going to social events as much as Alice did. But it was his duty as a member of a Pureblood household--and part of his job to go to Ministry functions.
Picking up a glass from one of the many traveling waiters, he sipped it and then quickly looked around before pouring it out into the soil of a nearby potted plant.
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Post by Nahara46 on Mar 31, 2013 0:30:26 GMT -5
Gisele left the office of the co-head of International Magical Office of Law, smoothing out her short, red pencil dress as she went. Her manicured hands closed around her hand purse almost protectively as she vaguely kept track of it at all times. After all, it's contents were the source of her power. In fact, the man from the office she had just left was currently quite flustered, having been informed of the dire situation he had placed himself in by taking her home that a few nights ago. After all, it wouldn't due for his wife and three children to discover his treachery, now would it?
Smiling in the face of a mission accomplished, the woman glanced around as she headed down the hall, planning to find somewhere she could get herself something to eat. Or, perhaps someone she could play with next.
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Post by G. Novella on Mar 31, 2013 11:08:01 GMT -5
John glanced at Alexander, before frowning. The minister was beckoning him over again. He really wished he could stay to question the man further about the case, but he knew Fawley was more than capable. Sighing, he extended a hand to Alexander, and shook it firmly. Alexander gave the man a surprised look, and before he could ask, John answered.
"The minister calls, duty awaits. I'm certain Fawley can pick your brains as well, if not better, than I can," said John with an easy nod.
"I'll see you some time soon," said Alexander with a smile, as John moved away. Alexander returned his attention to Fawley as he asked, "How many bodies do you suspect missing? What other signs should I be aware of?"
------
Meanwhile, John headed to the minister. He gave his greeting, regaled the crowd for a moment, and took the picture before clawing his way out. God he hated the crowd. Seeing August Spinnet, John made his way over to talk to the man. He was never drunk at these affairs, and despite having a daughter of marriageable age, he never tried to pawn her off on John. Those facts made John more than willing to share a conversation with him.
Before John got there, however, he was interrupted by an annoying woman, obviously drunk. She began blithering about her daughter to John, and how she'd make a lovely wife. It took all of John's self-control not to curse the woman. Instead, he gave her a smile and extracted himself from the situation as best as he could. Once he was away, in a considerably fouler mood, he reached August, scowling.
"If there is anything worse than a drunk man, it is a drunk woman," said John with a shake of his head, "At least a man can be excused for as a fool. A foolish woman? Where would the world be than? So, Spinnet, enjoying the party? Or are you ready to take a night-cap and run off. I'd love to."
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Post by eskimoRock on Mar 31, 2013 12:12:35 GMT -5
"I'm not entirely sure." Albert sighed. "But nobody is. I know that they're a mix of muggle and magical, but whoever is doing this seems to be very careful. They seem magical,they always vanish the evidence... I study spells myself, but I have to say I've never seen anything like this."
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Post by G. Novella on Mar 31, 2013 15:00:19 GMT -5
Alexander nodded, a sympathetic look on his face as be sighed. However, he straightened his back and considered the options. He sipped his glass of wine. Finally he said, "I'm afraid I have no idea. I'll look into a few leads I have, but for now, assume my prospects are futile. Actually, mind if I pick your brain for a moment? I live by myself, just a mad old house elf keeps me company. My research is, well, complicated, and I have several projects at the moment. Would either of you two know anyone looking for a job? I need someone willing to do servant style work with wizarding elements and aid in my research projects. Preferably someone private. Any suggestions?"
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Post by Nahara46 on Mar 31, 2013 15:04:16 GMT -5
As she walked down the halls, Gisele pulled out her red lip stick and re-applied it, her heal dulling clicking against the floor as she went. Placing the stick back in her hand purse, Gisele gave a big smile as she entered the atrium. Quickly she went to the receptionist table and exchanged a few quiet words with them. They gave a nod and a strained smile, Gisele gave a cheery wave and turned around, satisfied that her tracks were covered.
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Post by eskimoRock on Mar 31, 2013 15:06:55 GMT -5
"Hmm... I'm not entirely sure, but to be honest I've been so busy lately I've barely been able to keep up with the gossip!" Albert smiled. "But there are a few people here who would probably know. The women especially, how they love to talk about each other!"
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Post by G. Novella on Mar 31, 2013 15:13:07 GMT -5
Alexander nodded, and waved the comment away. He laughed as he glanced to the crowd and said, "Well, I have no idea how to find the right protege. Do keep an eye out for somebody. Preferably someone who can keep their mouth shut. Could you imagine trying to work with people who have no interest in anything but selling my work to the media? I tell you, nothing worse in the world. But there are several beauties around. Personally, I'm not a fan of most women. I like the quiet type, the home maker. Reminds me of my dear mother. She was a lovely woman. Fair few of her around these days. I fear society progresses in a manner too forward for myself."
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Post by eskimoRock on Mar 31, 2013 15:18:30 GMT -5
"I'll keep a look out for you." Albert nodded. "But I see your issue. We have a couple of aurors in the department who would love nothing more than to get their names in the newspapers for their latest great deeds, we have to be very strict."
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Post by G. Novella on Mar 31, 2013 15:23:56 GMT -5
"At least you have the comfort of knowing you can chuck them in Azkaban," said Alexander mournfully, "I can only fire them. It's why I prefer house elves. At least they have no choice but to be loyal. I considered an Unbreakable Vow, but well, that's a huge risk to take for a paltry job. And I'm a fickle man. Are the trustworthy no longer working?"
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Post by eskimoRock on Mar 31, 2013 15:26:27 GMT -5
"That's true." Albert chuckled. "I've never had the need for house elves myself, but I can see how they could be useful! It appears that there aren't many trustworthy people left! I find that many people struggle to do anything that doesn't have serious benefits for themselves, sadly."
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Post by ginnyrules27 on Mar 31, 2013 17:03:40 GMT -5
August looked up as John approached him. The man was enjoyable to be around and seeing as he was the only one who didn't shoot him sympathetic glances around the time of his wife's death, you could almost say they were friends. At least he was better company that the plant.
"A foolish woman doesn't exist in the world but to make other women more pleasing to the eye" August said, referring to the woman who had accosted the other man. For a second his mind drifted to his daughter, a pleasing girl of marriageable age. But then he snapped back to attention. It wouldn't do to be seen daydreaming.
"Honestly, I just arrived so I couldn't say I was enjoying it without making an arse of myself if you'd forgive the language," August said with a chuckle. "But what of you? Has the event been to your liking?" he asked the other man.
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Post by G. Novella on Mar 31, 2013 17:07:59 GMT -5
"Very true," said Alexander with a nod, "So tell me, Mr. Fawley, since I failed to come through on this case for you, how else can I help? Now that I've exited my home, I may as well do the dance of socializing, and aiding society."
----
John chuckled at August's comment, nodding in reply. His eyes softened as he thought about his sister, a wonderful woman with a wonderful nature. Never would she be seen in such an unseemly manor. He turned to August as he rolled his eyes, "Socializing is not my forte. If I could, I'd rather the minister hex me until I can't walk so that I don't have to deal with these people. I've never understood how a function like this ball fit my job description. How are things in your department, by the way?"
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Post by eskimoRock on Mar 31, 2013 17:11:49 GMT -5
"I'm sure the aurors could learn a lot from you, sir." Albert laughed. "If you ever felt like giving a few hours of your time... Although goodness knows, they struggle to listen to me enough."
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Post by Nahara46 on Mar 31, 2013 17:14:48 GMT -5
Now that her most recent job was sealed, (Though she had a sneaking suspicion that the man would call her again.) Gisele began to leave when she caught sight of two men. With nothing else better to do, she smiled slyly and approached the two men.
"Good day, Boys." She greeted.
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Post by ginnyrules27 on Mar 31, 2013 17:22:30 GMT -5
"I'm sure if you'd request such a thing from the Minister, he'd be more than willing to oblige," August told John, a smile gracing his lips as to show no ill will. "Be that as it may, I must confess I would rather study potions than socialize."
"Things are going well in my department," he continued. "Slower than what we'd like to see this time of year, but a fair amount of progress all the same. What about your department?"
The more he talked, the less he had the urge to just turn and go back to his manor and have his house elves faun over him.
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Post by G. Novella on Mar 31, 2013 17:37:19 GMT -5
Alexander nodded brightly, seemingly thrilled with this idea. He replied eagerly, "I'd love to help train Aurors! That sounds fascinating. Tell me, how do you train them? What sort of regimen do they follow? When should I come in to help?"
-----
John listened to August's reply, nodding as he considered the response. Before he could reply, they were approached by a considerably attractive woman, slinking over with a graceful etiquette. John immediately went on guard, glancing at her. He didn't know her intentions, but he stiffened, going into a formal and charming manner he used only before strangers.
"Good day, Madam," said John politely, "I'm afraid we haven't met before. My name is John Longbottom, and this is my companion, August Spinnet. Who do we have the pleasure of talking to?"
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Post by eskimoRock on Mar 31, 2013 17:46:35 GMT -5
Albert laughed at Alexander's eagerness. "I tend to train them a lot of the time. I try to get them to think outside the box,meets their strengths and weaknesses... One of them tends to be that they don't listen or take your advice on board, but that's part of the job. They're supposed to keep themselves physically fit, too. But I'll speak to John, and try and find a time you can come in."
He glanced over his companions shoulder at his boss, and frowned.
"If that's who I think it is, this could be interesting."
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Post by Nahara46 on Mar 31, 2013 17:51:16 GMT -5
Gisele smiled, "A pleasure to meet you, I'm sure." Quickly she debated within herself to use her professional name or her given name. Unfortunately, her brother was not known for his good character, so her last name normally brought bad fortune, so she rarely used her given name outside of her more personal life. However, there was a chance they had heard of her 'stage' name, and she didn't want to give them the wrong impression.
After a moment, she replied cheerfully, "The name is Ivy Engel."
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Post by G. Novella on Mar 31, 2013 18:31:46 GMT -5
Alexander followed Albert's gaze to where John was speaking with a lovely looking woman. He shrugged, and glanced back at Albert, unsure of who this woman was exactly. Curiously, he glanced at Albert and asked, "What's the story there? Is she an ex-lover of his or another tale? Forgive me for sounding like a gossip-monger, but I fail to see the interest. I've been out of society for so long."
---------
John raised an eyebrow at the name, but unsure if he'd heard of it before. It didn't sound familiar, but he didn't care. John hardly kept up with gossip, and it took him time to recall the tales. Shrugging it away, he kept the formal polite air up.
"Nice to meet you, Madame Engel," he said, automatically assuming her married. It was easier if he didn't assume her single, he'd learnt early on. It would make the smarter women realize he had no interest, "Might I ask where in the ministry you work? I've not seen you before."
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Post by eskimoRock on Mar 31, 2013 18:35:24 GMT -5
Albert coughed, and tried to think of the best way to phrase it.
"Put it this way, from what I've heard she is not the kind of woman you would want to associate with. Loose morals, that one."
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Post by Nahara46 on Mar 31, 2013 18:37:06 GMT -5
"Just Ivy, if you please." Gisele replied smoothly, having never been one for such formalities. Then she scooped her hand into her purse and pulled out a pad of parchment paper and a quill. With a snap of her fingers, both began to float as she lied easily, "I'm a reporter for the Daily Prophet." She paused for a moment before snapping her finger once more, sending both of her utensils into the bag once more. "Don't fret though, I'm not here to bother you with an interview or questions. Simply saw two handsome men and fancied introducing myself." Gisele winked for effect, though she smiled playfully to show she wasn't serious.
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Post by ginnyrules27 on Mar 31, 2013 19:14:42 GMT -5
August nodded toward the woman as she introduced herself, a little tongue tied to do anything else. It had been several years since he had ever had the nerve to talk to a woman, let alone have her start it.
Watching the floating pad and quill with interest, August raised an eyebrow as she sent it away. He vowed to watch what he said after that. After all, there was no such thing as off record with a journalist.
"Have you worked with the Prophet long?" he inquired. He was an avid pursuer of the paper and he couldn't remember her byline. Of course, he didn't read it cover to cover.
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Post by Nahara46 on Mar 31, 2013 19:39:40 GMT -5
"No," She replied, "Not as long as some of the old geezers up there, about five years now. Nearly fresh out of hogwarts! Unfortunately, I don't get many good articles. I'd much prefer to do a creature column." She licked her lips, "After all, some creatures have the most fascinating habits, wouldn't you agree?" Her voice was quite suggestive and playful as she continued to smile slyly.
"Right now I've been assigned to write an article on the changes regarding some boring goblin laws. How dull."
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Post by G. Novella on Mar 31, 2013 19:52:22 GMT -5
John nodded at her words. Her flirtatious behavior took him by surprise, and it was refreshing if not annoying. Most women were more covert in their attempts at wooing. She looked young, and he shifted uneasily. He didn't like being around reporters, they made him uncomfortable, always scoping for information on his department. He raised an eyebrow at her question, and merely replied, "It makes them easier to track down. Habits are what make or break a man."
He continued politely, "Goblin laws? Then it would be beneficial to discuss it with the Head of the Department for the Regulation of Magical Creatures. I know the man, he's quite friendly. Shall I introduce you, Ivy?"
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Post by ginnyrules27 on Mar 31, 2013 20:00:43 GMT -5
"Well, keep trying," August told Ivy with a kind smile, the kind he would give his daughter when she was close to giving up on a task. "Some times you just need to advocate for yourself before you advance in your career."
Let's just say August was blind to her flirtatious behavior, having no need to recognize it before. Alice never flirted with anyone in his presence and it had been so long since he himself had flirted that he had forgotten what it sounded like.
Hearing John's comment, August decided to let the other man take over and snagged a glass of water from a traveling waiter.
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Post by Nahara46 on Mar 31, 2013 20:02:19 GMT -5
Inwardly, Gisele was thinking that perhaps reporter was not the best cover, She noted that editor was a much better option- less likely to shut people out. Also kept people from attempting to connect her to other, as she preferred to stay within a circle as a name and move through with different aliases. However, she's made her folly and might as well follow through on it.
"That sounds quite delightful!" She clapped her manicured hands together almost childishly and leaned forward toward John, "I appreciate such an offer!" Then, she pouted. "What a pity though, my research is all but finished... After all, I'm not exactly going to be putting much effort into it. Who reads articles about changing goblin laws? No one I know has any interest in how goblins fire places can be connected to a wizards."
Then she smiled once more, "Of course, some do have the most odd... preferences. Like to see a goblin or two here and there, and they must need transport." Then she raised an eyebrow, "How about you, John? Ever in need in such a connection?"
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Post by G. Novella on Mar 31, 2013 20:11:07 GMT -5
From where Alexander was standing, he could tell just what kind of woman Giselle was. The man stiffened, his mind thinking about his own poor mother and giving the woman a cool glare.
"I see," said Alexander with a shrug, "Well, the sinners do evil to tempt the good. I hope John can avoid the temptress."
-----
Meanwhile, John was surprised as the woman headed towards him, and he couldn't help the smile that appeared on his lips. She seemed so genuine about her work, and the ditzy air about her was odd. He couldn't quite place it, but he suspected she was just a young girl who had taken a boring job. He nodded as he said, "Politicians read them. Do you have much experience with politicians, or just goblins?"
When the question turned to him, he nodded as he said, "Sometimes I need a goblin's assistance in solving a case here and there. But I'm not one for the stranger preferences, how about yourself? Any trouble that I should be aware of?"
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