Reena's Plotter

Dear grandma, dear grandpa,

we sincerely hope you are doing fine in light of latest events.
For us it is a new experience to be in the public eye- and be it only in a gossip magazine.
The things written about our father Marcus came as a revelation to us, should they prove to be more than just gossip, and, as you might have expected, have arisen questions on our behalf.
We hope you understand that we write to you rather than to mum out of thoughtfulness towards her and trust that you treat this letter as confidential.
We would also like to apologize in advance should our question open up old scars.

To cut to the chase, our questions are the following:
- 'Who were Marcus and Conrad?'
- 'What were they like?'
- 'What did they do for a living?'
- 'Why were they in the spotlight?'
- 'What does "on the edge of falling from grace" mean?'
- 'Do you have pictures you could send us?'

We would be thankful for any question answered but would like to stress you should not feel obligated to disclose any information you are uncomfortable sharing with us.

Lots of love and we miss you,

Jaxen and Reena

Rest assured that we've no drama on our end from being in the public eye. Your Grandma and I are quiet proficient in avoiding unwanted questions and attention. As mentioned in our last letter, we've run interference so nothing got back to your mother - but we doing quite well, yes.

Your Grandma's little window garden is thriving, so I've attached some of her sweet cranberry cookies you kids love so much.

Of course, we weren't surprised that the recent round of public nosiness into our family affairs has arisen questions from you two, always mature and curious beyond your years... however, I'm afraid we must disappoint you in being selective with the answers we give. Or rather, I give. Grandma does not wish to bring up old wounds, as there are still those yet to become scars.

We do, of course, appreciate you writing to us rather than your mother.

Marcus and Conrad are our beloved sons, born close in age but with quite different goals and perspectives in life. They were almost inseparable. Marcus was the level-headed and practical one, and Conrad the high-achiever who didn't always think before he leaped. Marcus was in Hufflepuff, and Conrad was in Gryffindor. Merlin knows the number of owls we got from the school when they were so often caught exploring the castle after hours.

You asked us who they were and what they were like, and this is where I must disappoint you. There is both too little and too much to tell in one letter. The truth is, Conrad hadn't been home for some many years before his death.

They both spent most of their working hours at the Ministry of Magic. Conrad did some freelance work on the side as well, which we know nothing about. I understand and sympathise with your desire for answers, but we made a promise to Aubrey not to speak of what happened. Perhaps one day you'll be ready for the truth, but for now you just hold tight to our stories, okay?

They were brave, adventurous, and clever. They loved you, that's what matters. You kids got the best of them, more than anyone else. I've included a photograph of Marcus (right) and Conrad (left) when they were young. They always had a fascination with the unknown, demanding many trips to the vast seaside over the years.


I'm sorry we cannot give you the answers you seek. Your mother was adamant you weren't ready yet, and we must respect that she knows better than anyone why that is. She and Lula Sallow went to great lengths to keep you away from all the drama and danger, especially in those final weeks. We have to trust in her.

Enjoy the cookies. We hope your studies are going well. Grandma and I will try to visit over Christmas, if possible. Give the others our love too.

Jaxen wrote to me about your Hogsmeade permission slip, and requesting dress robes. I wasn't sure what to write here, but I've signed your form (please let Jaxen accompany you), and your grandmother bought some dress robes last-minute. If it's not trendy, I'm sorry; blame your old folks.

As I've explained to Jaxen, I'm not able to pick you up from the station this year for the holidays. I've made other arrangements to get you home, so don't worry. I'm looking forward to see you both, at least. You are still coming home for Christmas, right?

I hope you like the dress robes. Your first ball... I wish this was something we could have shared together. I hope you have a wonderful night though. Please tell me all about it.

See you soon, my little Fox. I love you, Reena. Never forget that.

Dear mum, how are you holding up?

Jax and I arrived safely at Hogwarts and had a chance to catch up with the others. Ezra has made some new friends at Christmas dinner but I am sure he will love to tell you all about that himself.

I have been looking into that potion you took when we were at Gringott's. Sadly I haven't been successful in identifying it yet.

It would be very helpful if you could tell me its name, ingredients or specific effect so I can research it properly as I would love to brew it for you.

Thank you in advance.

Love, Reena

You may write normally or continue to the way we are, if you wish. My concern is more pertaining to my outgoing letters, whereas yours are safe to receive.

I'm writing out of concern, about the incident at the Department of Mysteries since the case was reopened. Be wary of rumours, as there may only be a degree of truth in them. During this time, everyone will have an opinion of what happened and many false claims will be released.

But most importantly, I owe my life to your family. I've kept my distance the past few years, for your safety, but you kids are growing up and I feel the weight of my debt. I cannot repay it with answers right now, but is there anything you need? Any of you?

I will write again soon. Keep an eye out for Mirthwood, and always have a supply of antidotes on hand. I don't expect you to need them, but it never hurts to be prepared. Ashworths are in more danger than ever, but you'll be okay so long as you stick together. Be vigilant.