viktor krum

[imperiasviktor]

sacredbyparkinson​:

Although Pansy did not, could not, truly regret where she’d come from she had to admit that Viktor’s earnest and open manner had become a balm to her over the years. She’d lived most of her life in various serpents’ dens - first among the venomous landscape of her parents’ acrimonious marriage and pureblood society, secondly among her ambitious fellows at school, and thirdly in the more subtle but just as fierce world of French high society - and she could slither along with the best of them but every so often it was nice to let her mask slip. Admittedly, it had taken her quite some time to accept Viktor’s kindness and lack of expectations as genuine but once she had a true friendship had bloomed between them. Terrible. He said and her mind slipped back to the way the press had received even something as innocent as that friendship by splashing stolen pictures of them in cafes and at quidditch matches across their pages and speculating that perhaps the reason behind his erstwhile divorce had a name that rhymed with handsy. 

Pansy couldn’t help but snort at his question, “Is it legal? Merlin who knows but given that it was an infestation of Aurors that stirred them up in the first place…” She spread her hands and shrugged flippantly despite the frustration coloring her tone her meaning obvious. Even if it was illegal who was going to come and run the pesks off the edges of Parkinson land? Certainly not the Aurors who had made her dance and jump through hoops for an entire night before finally leaving her in relative peace. Her gaze softened as he went on to answer her questions and query her welfare in turn. Already she regretted her sharpish reply to his response to her press problems though she knew that after so many years he had to be used to the way her manner skewed to sharpness. Certainly she understood his desire for quiet, between the incident on Harry Potter Day and her own personal troubles she too had fully tired of ‘excitement’. Even now she could still feel the echoes of panic that had spread through the crowds in Hogsmeade echoing another evening many years past that had found her fleeing the same village. Just the memory made her head ache and she pressed a hand to her forehead fingers massaging along her brow for a moment before she mustered up an answer.

”Exhausted to be honest. It feels as though ever since I’ve come back its just one thing after the other. I miss France but there’s far too much to be done here before I can consider going back for any length of time.” 

It seemed something was happening with the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, Viktor was coming to suspect. First bringing him in, now raiding Maelle’s home... he could understand their doubts and worries and he could respect that they were doing their job; this harassment Maelle had to face, on the other hand, he couldn’t excuse and he had no interest in attempting to. “I’m sorry. It must be hard, not feeling safe at your own home. But if they ever become too persistent, the reporters or the Aurors, you’re always welcome to stay at my apartment.” He didn’t usually give his address to many, not even to most of his friends, but he felt confident in sharing it with Maelle. For one, he trusted her, and for another, he wanted to give her an alternative to her estate; even if she never took his offer, he would feel better knowing she had it as an option. He looked at the napkins on the table, glancing around for a moment before looking at Maelle. “Do you have a pen? It’s not a problem if you don’t, I can always just send an owl.”

And although initially, he’d had no intention of sharing his own recent run-in with the Department of Law Enforcement, in light of what she’d told him, he thought it might help her feel less targeted. Still, he hesitated for a moment before speaking up. “A couple of Aurors paid me a visit as well, actually. I’m not sure how much I can say -- though they didn’t seem to be following all protocols so who knows, maybe it was an unofficial thing. But my point is that I think they’re trying to be cautious. Not that it excuses how they behaved with you, of course. It just makes me think that there might be more to it than mindless paranoia.”

He certainly could understand her exhaustion, though. After everything that had happened as of late, he definitely shared the sentiment. “Perhaps that can be something you look forward to, taking a vacation and going back. Something to get you through the day.” And because this conversation was already a bit too heavy, he decided to change the subject. “How is work going? Any big plans?”

[imperiasviktor]

angelinaweasley​:

Angelina snorts, but she lets Viktor’s misplaced adoration for Italy go. Then again, when it came to Eurovision, she certainly isn’t one to talk. It’s not like England was going to win soon, even if she put all of her weight behind them. She is but a mere individual, after all. At Terry’s name, her frown twists into something of concern. She’s known Terry since their shared Hogwarts days. Although the two aren’t close to being best friends, they still kept in touch. If this was an open matter, surely the diplomat would have mentioned something to her. In fact, her friendship with Viktor is much more public than the one she shares with him. Perhaps it was a secret between the two of them. But the Ministry isn’t supposed to have any secrets… yet she says nothing, her frown only growing deeper. “You’d like to think they’ve got it down pat, wouldn’t you? I heard that they set up a new department for it and everything. But, you know how it goes. I try to stay out of that. It’s none of my business, at least out here,” she says, and wholeheartedly believes it too. Quidditch players could be doing so many other things on top of their soap boxes (some would call it a platform– Angelina couldn’t agree) and yet they decided to stick their noses into a field that stood on the other side of the career color wheel. Still, it’s not like that’s an overwhelming opinion. In fact, athletes having a say in political matters is one of the biggest controversies among the quidditch community and with fair reason. 

“There are half-bloods and muggle-borns in the Ministry but I’m not sure how attached they are to their roots, you know?” She explains. She thinks about Harry and Hermione: how much do her in-laws care about others like them? “Anyway, it’ll all be solved soon,” she says, trying not to be too quick. “I heard Bend It Like Beckham is playing.” She gestures to the theater entrance. “Shall we?” 

.

Eurovision wasn’t the only matter on which they disagreed, though it was the most lighthearted one. (Then again, their rivalry when it came to supporting their favourite countries was no joke either.) But a heavier topic that they also happened not to see eye to eye on was politics. While Angelina liked to stay out of any talk of it, Viktor was almost unusually vocal and open about his views; certainly more open than he was when it came to his personal life, anyway. Regardless, he would never claim her opinion was wrong simply because it was different from his own; rather, politics were one of those topics that he had accepted they would agree to disagree on. It by no means made him think less of Angelina, of course. “Yes, I heard that too, about this new department. And I admit, I am hopeful, but at this point I feel like we can only wait and see.”

On the other hand, when it came to opinions about Muggleborns and Half-bloods, he listened carefully to everything she had to say, taking a note of it all. He’d grown up in an entirely different society, was a Pureblood through and through, and he felt it was especially important that he listened to the people who were actually affected by the new statutes and regimes. He was in no position to tell them how to feel or what was what. So if Angelina thought that perhaps Ministry workers didn’t accurately represent their communities, then he was inclined to agree with her. “Bend It Like Beckham... this is the football one, right? By all means, let’s go. I’m curious to see it.”

END.

[imperiasviktor]

accioginny​:

Despite the fact that the witch had hidden away with the intent to remain away from the prying eyes, when it came to Viktor Krum, Ginny was grateful for the company. It felt nice to have someone to talk to, even if it was little more than pleasantries and sport conversations. Anything but about the war raging on outside the tent, the one her parents tried to shield her from even as it claimed the lives of people she knew. In her eyes, she was sure she would always be a child, but now, with war on their doorstep, she felt like anything but.

“She’s happy with Bill, at least, I think she is.” the witch admitted, glancing around to get a glance at the newly married couple before turning toward the Triwizard Tournament champion. Even though she would rather not admit it at times with her new sister-in-law, she did concede “She makes him happy too. I’m glad her family could make it… especially with things getting more tense. Might be the last time for celebration for awhile.”

With that somber note, the Weasley was happy to change the subject. “My extended family. I love them, but they are more than a handful, and I’d like to spend the night enjoying the reception rather than attending to their gossip and criticisms.” the witch admitted with a gentle laugh before she took a sip from her glass. “They make every gathering bloody nightmare, really, but what can you do?”

It was hard to miss the fact that Fleur was practically glowing. More than her smile, her every gesture betrayed her happiness, from the way she refused to let go of William’s hand even after they’d stopped dancing to how she kept stealing glances at him every now and then as if to make sure he was by her side. And although Viktor didn’t know him well, he certainly seemed to share that happiness too if the way he looked at Fleur was anything to go by.

“They both seem happy,” he agreed. “It’s good that they got a moment of peace in the middle of everything.” This was a heavy topic, though, hardly one suitable for such a joyous event and Viktor was happy to let it drop.

In contrast, Ginny’s admission about hiding from her extended family was amusing. He couldn’t entirely relate; his family had always been rather small, with barely any cousins at all and none that he kept in touch with. What he could understand, however, was wanting to stay away from gossip and critique. “In that case, if anyone asks, I’ll pretend I haven’t seen you,” he said in return, a wry smile on his lips. “I have some experience with hiding from people with too many questions, but somehow they always seem to find me. If you have any advice I would be more than happy to hear it.” He was joking, mostly, though it was true that reporters were… persistent. He didn’t want to call them annoying since he was aware most of them were just doing their jobs, but their curiosity was very invasive sometimes.

He let the silence sit for a moment before bringing up yet another topic; small talk was preferable to awkward silences. “Fleur mentioned you’re on the Gryffindor Quidditch team now? How is that going?”

[imperiasviktor]

yurikahaneda​:

There’s a shadow that has fallen over her table, Yurika Haneda notices as she snaps herself out of her daydream, looking up to find probably the last person she has ever expected to come across in Hogsmeade. Viktor Krum. The illustrious Quidditch player–and arguably someone that she’d known quite well once upon a time ago. She pushes her chair back slightly, gesturing to the chair to her left. “Of course, join me.” she answers, slightly perplexed. It has been so long since the last time Yurika had met Viktor, and the last piece of correspondence they’s had if she recalled correctly was when she and Charlie Caron, her Quidditch player ex-fiancee, sent him and everyone on their wedding guest list a letter announcing the cancellation of their wedding. So it is quite a surprise to come across Viktor in this way. Not that they haven’t briefly bumped into each other, what with the British Wixen community being quite small.

“It’s been so long,” she comments, “The last time we met was at the engagement party almost two years ago?” Yurika remembers Viktor to be a good friend of Charlie, the two had known each other through playing opposite on another on several occasions. She herself had only been acquainted with Viktor through Charlie. He was more Charlie’s friend and guest rather than hers but they had previously eaten dinner and talked to each other so she guesses this situation isn’t the most awkward.

“I guess it’s only proper of me to ask you how have you been doing?” She straightens her back, “You are still coaching here in Britain, right?” 

.

Viktor has no intention of bringing up the wedding -- or it not happening, to be exact. He makes a point to keep out of other people’ business unless they come to him wanting to talk and it’s a mindset that’s served him well for many years. It’s why he never asked Charlie about it; he just accepted that sometimes things simply didn’t work out and didn’t think more of it. Charlie didn’t ask about his divorce either and that’s more than fine with Viktor. He’s had enough people asking as it was.

But Yurika openly brings up the topic without any prompting and it leads Viktor to believe that maybe it’s not the sore subject he might have assumed it was. He still has no intention of prying, but it makes this whole exchange feel less like walking on eggshells.

“I think that was it, yes. How have you been doing since then?” Two years is, after all, plenty of time for a lot of things to change. He knows that well enough, he realises as she mirrors his question. “I’ve been well. Busy. Yes, with coaching and all. Even off-season there’s a lot of work to be done, but in the end, it’s worth it to see the kids having fun. I had to take a small break recently -- an old injury -- but things are back to normal now.” Immediately, he makes a face at the words. Normal is certainly not a word he would ideally use to describe the situation in the Wix World right now. “Well. As normal as can be, all things considered.”

[imperiasviktor]

angelinaweasley​:

With the mention of Italy, Angelina can’t help but frown a bit. The country had won the famed muggle contest just a few years ago and it spited her to this day. “It might as well have been on my forehead. Everybody noticed and I was properly mortified.” Indeed, everyone who was anyone in Angelina’s life had taken to the temporary drawing of the beloved flag like a bug was drawn to patio lights. Angelina didn’t answer any press questions for a week afterwards, leading the media to hypothesize about its not-so-elusive meaning. The most outlandish was a theory that due to the flag’s three stripes, Angelina was expecting another child. This was highly unlikely. It had taken her husband an abundant amount of convincing for her to pop out two children. Besides, there were enough Weasley descendants running around in their world. “Next year, England will finally win. I’ll make sure that it hurts.” Her smirk is prominent in its confident glory, even though England’s notorious for never securing the victory. 

“You could send an owl, sure.” She doesn’t think much of his statement until he mentions the Ministry. That makes her straighten a bit more, her expression twisting into a worried thin line of her lips. “Is there something up, Viktor? If something’s wrong, I can always talk to Harry about it. In fact, I’m sure Hermione would be fine with it as well.” As much as she can’t stop herself from throwing the normally impressive names around, she knows that she wouldn’t be nearly as pro-government as she is without being related to some of the top officials in the country. She wonders where Viktor aligns. Her friends’ political views rarely cross her mind but there has to be a slim chance that he’s simply pro-government if the Ministry is so skeptical. How could they be so skeptical of someone so close to Dumbledore’s Army? She travelled in the same circle as him but never managed to get caught. Nobody even seemed to suspect her. 

Still, it’s a gentle reminder for her to slip her phone back into her pocket before turning to the watch. There’s a wistful gaze as she looks down, trying to pretend as if the glass isn’t there. It’s amazing that she once got to use these devices freely and without worry. “Muggles do have their own intelligence. I mean, look at this. We haven’t even come close.” Angelina says, sorely missing the fitness tracker she once kept on her left wrist. “They’ll have to integrate some sort of technology soon. If we don’t start now, they’ll discover us sooner or later. I’m not going to risk keeping the no contact laws around if we can help it.”

.

He raises an eyebrow at her frown. “I’m sorry, was it not entirely your fault for supporting the wrong countries? I don’t understand how England keeps losing and you keep being surprised by it. And I have no doubts you would have made me actually wear somebody’s flag on my forehead if you’d won, I think I was very generous.” And as much as he dislikes the press as a whole, that particular situation was funny. Completely ridiculous, of course, but also funny, because in his opinion, it perfectly captured how silly everything the press claims is. The lengths to which they would go to create stories… it’s crazy. “If England ever wins, you’re more than free to ask for whatever you want. I promise I won’t even complain.” It’s not an empty promise, but the possibility of England winning is so low that he doesn’t feel it will ever come into play.

Her concern is touching, truly, but he doesn’t want to direct any more negative attention towards the Ministry. They face enough of that as it is. “It’s fine, it was just a misunderstanding. Mr Boot helped settle things.” Are things settled, though? He’s not too sure. But he wants to believe it and, well, he doesn’t want to worry Angelina any further so he decides to change the subject. “In any case, the Ministry’s done a good job of setting all of this up. I was thinking of watching some of the films later too. Have you seen any of them? I’m open to taking recommendations.”

It is true that there’s nothing quite like Muggle technology in the Wix World. Is their technological advancement a result of not having the help of magic? It would make sense -- Wix can visit friends and family with a quick dash of Floo powder, but Muggles, who have to take trains and cars, have all these smart objects as a means to connect to their friends. “I’m sure they know what they’re doing. Not only with technology but also the statutes. Surely there have to be Muggle-borns and Half-bloods in the Ministry too, right? They can’t be enjoying the laws either. They’re probably just as eager to work out a solution.”

[imperiasviktor]

yurikahaneda​:

yurika & viktor || @imperiasviktor​

when: 16th November 2020

where: The Three Broomsticks

Yurika will never tell anyone this but there are always days in which she is nostalgic for Hogwarts. She’ll wake up one day and wish that she was back at the castle, twenty years younger, with not a single care in the world about anything else other than the Transfiguration and Potion classes she was taking that year, wearing swishy robes and sleeping in on Sundays. Attending Quidditch matches and sneaking into the kitchen with her friends, visiting the giant squid inside the lake.

In the end, all she feels during those days is simply nostalgia, a longing for days gone past. A part of her that secretly misses the feeling of being at home inside a stone castle filled with magic. She misses Hogwarts and she wants to see it again, but it’s not as if she can just walk in and have tea at the Great Hall. She can’t just wander about and reminisce. That’s not how Hogwarts and its security system work. Perhaps she can enter under the guise of visiting her niece but, right now, her niece is still one year away from entering Hogwarts. Visiting her friends’ children instead is another option she’d considered but that would make her look like a miserable woman who clings to her friends’ children.

So instead of finding ways to go back and visit Hogwarts, on the days in which she misses the school, she will simply reserve a table at The Three Broomsticks and order herself a glass of Butterbeer. Sometimes she’ll have her friends come with her but more often than not, it’s usually just her alone.

Today is one of those days. She is sitting at her usual table and The Three Broomsticks feels like an aunt’s house, a place familiar enough to be called an almost home. She drinks her Butterbeer and looks out the window at the cheery streets of Hogsmeade and the looming castle far far away.

.

It’s not as though Viktor has any business in Hogsmeade, but if he only ever went to places he strictly had to, he would hardly get to leave his apartment at all these days. He knows, because it’s what he used to do. Keep to himself, go to work, go to events whenever people went out of their way to invite him, go home, repeat. It’s good to have a routine, certainly, but it’s not enough, especially in light of everything that’s been happening as of late. So he tries to put himself more out there. Perhaps not to the extremes of taking casual strolls down Diagon Alley, but Hogsmeade feels safe enough to begin with.

Except putting yourself out there is much easier said than done and once he’s actually there, Viktor has no idea what is it he’s supposed to do. Which, he guesses, is the entire point -- he doesn’t have to do anything. Even so, walking around without any sort of purpose feels odd and it’s in hopes of remedying that that he heads towards the Three Broomsticks. He gets a pumpkin juice at the bar, ignoring the way the bartender looks at him as though they’re not sure how to act around him and manages a small smile when they ask for his autograph. (He would never say this, but he prefers the other bartender he catches here sometimes, the one who just scowls at him all the time, but at least never tries to engage Viktor in small talk as this one seems to be doing.)

“I’m sorry, my friend is waiting for me,” he says, tone appropriately apologetic, and immediately has to stifle the urge to wince at his own words. Why would he say that? There’s no friend waiting for him, and he’ll just look rude for the blatant lie if he goes to sit at the lone table he’s been eyeing since walking in. But he keeps his face impassive, even as he turns around, and lets his eyes scan the crowd. It’s too much to hope for a friendly face, but as he spots Yurika Haneda, Viktor figures it’s as close as he’s going to get.

And he likes Yurika well-enough, from what he’s seen of her so far, so really, this is actually a stroke of luck, finding her here and alone at that; he would feel especially bad if he was intruding on her private affairs. Mind made, he heads towards her table.

“Hello.” He smiles once again, though this time his smile comes easier than it did at the bar. “It’s good to see you.” Then he glances at one of the empty seats. “May I join you?”

[imperiasviktor]

accioginny​:

While the youngest Weasley was happy that her eldest brother had found some happiness in these dark times, she couldn’t say she was all too impressed with his choice. Nothing was really wrong with Fleur, she was an alright person overall, but she couldn’t help but wish her brother had chosen someone more… daring, like Tonks. She knew she wasn’t alone in that opinion, but, as they all played their parts at the joining of Fleur Delacour and Bill Weasley, their opinions were unimportant. It was a bright day in a long streak of dark ones, so, while biting her tongue, the witch chose to enjoy the reception as much as she possibly could.

Following the ceremony, and relieved of her duties as a bridesmaid for her new sister-in-law, Ginevra had found herself a spot away from the crowded tables filled with family, friends, and order members. While they mingled, danced, and enjoyed themselves, she chose to sit and relax for just a few moments. As exhausting as her family could be normally, having the extended brood in tow only made her want to slip away unnoticed even more - a task which her golden dress made nearly impossible. Still, it seemed to be working well enough until a familiar voice spoke up.

“No, please, help yourself, Viktor.” the witch offered with a small smile of her own to the wizard. “Thank you for coming, I’m sure it meant a lot for Fleur to have you here. I know it must be hard for her getting married so far away from home.” While she and the triwizard champion may not have been close yet, she did feel for her in that one aspect. “But, regardless, it’s nice to see you too, for a moment I thought I’d been spotted.”

Sitting down at least gave him something to do, though many would probably argue that if he was looking for something to keep him busy, he’d be better off on the dancefloor. And he did fully intend to ask the bride for a dance later on, but for now, he was content to just watch from the tables. Besides, in one of her letters, Fleur had mentioned Ginny Weasley had joined the Quidditch team of her house and Quidditch was something he was always happy to talk about.

“I’m glad she invited me. She sounded very excited in her letters, though, so I’m sure she doesn’t mind that much to be away from home.” Of course, he imagined that was less of an issue than getting married while tensions were this high in the Wix world, but Fleur seemed to take it all in stride and Viktor admired that. Truth to be told, he’d been somewhat intimidated by her, initially, but she’d turned out to be an admirable witch. “I know she must be relieved that her parents managed to come along with Gabrielle, though. There have been rumours that travel to England might be stopped for a while and I don’t know if it’s true, but we were both… anticipating something like this.”

Ginny’s comment about being spotted prompted Viktor to raise an eyebrow. “Are you hiding? From who?”

[imperiasviktor]

The Burrow | Viktor Krum & Ginny Weasley August 1, 1997 Closed starter for @accioginny

Viktor was beyond happy for Fleur (and for William too, naturally, though the two had never really conversed beyond Viktor congratulating him on his marriage) and he did not by any means want to sound ungrateful for the invitation, but after the exchanging of vows, the wedding had become rather… awkward. Everyone had made their way either to the dance floor or to the tables, and Viktor found himself feeling out of place. Which was to be expected, naturally; he was only really friends with a handful of people here and striking conversation with strangers had never been his strong suit.

So he finally decided to make his way towards the tables, specifically looking for one that would hopefully be less crowded, and was pleasantly surprised when he found it. In fact, despite the many chairs around it, there was only one person sat at it and what was even better, it was someone Viktor knew -- certainly, he and Ginny Weasley were hardly friends like he and Hermione or Harry were, but she was definitely one of the people at this wedding that he felt more comfortable around.

“Is this seat taken?” he asked as he approached, a small smile on his lips. “And congratulations for your brother’s marriage, of course. It was a beautiful ceremony.”

[imperiasviktor]

angelinaweasley​:

“Look, I’m more than happy to put my autograph on your forehead,” she says, pointedly holding up the black permanent marker left behind by a forgetful fan. Angelina is experienced enough to be aware that there are different sorts of fame. Most of her family did not experience the same kind of fame as herself. When a political figure came under fire, the lash that came from the public’s whip was not the same as when an athlete like her committed a similar wrongdoing. As she walked the frequently-trekked but lonely journey to retirement, she took comfort in knowing that Viktor understood her experiences. 

“It’s the biggest shame, really,” she told him. The switch to a bulkier yet far more advanced phone was one of the muggle world’s largest technological disappointments. “I’ll let you in on a secret: the worst part is that my phone never fits into my pockets. But yours? It could be a fit. Maybe it’s the world telling you we can get one. I can totally find one for you.” While Angelina’s parents had fully moved into the Wizarding World since her childhood outside in muggle suburban London, they still had some connections. Granted, the walk between her mother and father’s home to the nearest phone store was only five minutes away. She would miss the ability to seamlessly walk the line between the two worlds. No matter how many times she told herself that it was temporary and wholeheartedly trusted her sister-in-law, she couldn’t ignore the gap worming its way into her heart. For Angelina, the muggle world was more than a mere playground to blend into– it was a part of her identity. 

“What do you mean you don’t know who you’d send a text to? You could text me anytime you felt like it. Or call, if you’re really so intent on acting our age.” Angelina says. “But in the end, I dunno…” her voice drifts off, stuck in contemplation. Aware that there was the highly likely possibility of people who could listen into their conversation, her voice dips a notch as she admits, “If I’m being completely transparent, I hope the no-contact laws end soon. I don’t see a point in having this fair if we can’t use any of the technology we’re trying to accept. What is this all for?”

.

“Ah, but then I can’t sell your autograph and that was my plan all along. It’s a shame.” But the mention of writings on their skin reminded him of another odd tradition of theirs and he couldn’t help the grin that grew on his face at the memory. It had been a strange thing to bond over in general, but ever since his former wife had introduced him to the Muggle song contest Eurovision, Viktor had found himself enjoying it very much and the discovery that Angelina was not only was aware of it as well but was also a fan of the contest led to some… interesting moments in their friendship. “I have to remind you once again that you’re lucky Italy didn’t win, by the way. Or I would have made you paint their flag on your forehead.“

“Right, women’s pockets,” he nodded along, understanding. He was no expert in fashion, much less Muggle fashion, but it was beyond him why there was such a difference in pocket sizes. He did know, however, that it was one of the reasons some women liked to shop in the men’s sections in clothing stores. Still, he let out a short laugh at Angelina’s suggestion that maybe it was a sign he should get his own phone. “As interesting as that theory is, I don’t think I’ll have much use for it. I’ll text you, sure, but I can also always send an owl. And,” he paused for a moment, considering if he should be sharing this. “I don’t want to risk it. The Ministry is already… uneasy about me. No need to give them a reason.”

He did sympathise with her wanting the no-contact statutes to be lifted, though. He was aware they didn’t affect him nearly as much as they did those with Muggle relatives and the least he could do was offer his support. “I hope so too. I like to think this,” he gestured around at the fair around them, “means we’re one step closer to that happening? As you say, there’s no reason to introduce us to these objects if they don’t want to integrate them soon.” He looked around for something else to talk about, something to perhaps take Angelina’s mind off the statues. “And speaking of, what is that?” He went to move closer to another of the displayed objects, this one reading Smartwatch. “Why is everything smart? Smartphone, smartwatch. Do they have their own intelligence?”

[imperiasviktor]

sacredbyparkinson​:

In stark contrast to the listlessness that had followed her father’s death Pansy found herself overflowing with anxious energy in the wake of the Ministry’s raid on her home. She’d done her best to burn it off - surveying and documenting the damage they’d done to the Manor and raging to Draco but she could not seem to shake it entirely. She wanted to do something… to fight back somehow but she was utterly aware of the dangers that lay down that path. She’d spent hours exhausting herself mentally as she paced on the edge between action and inaction. So when Vkitor’s owl arrived it came as an entirely welcome surprise. It had been far too long since they’d truly talked - she’d seen him at the funeral of course but her attention had been so divided with her hosting responsibilities then - and lunch with an old friend sounded like a delightful break to chaos that had been her life since returning to England. 

Pansy made her way down Spindrift Lane and found Viktor at the thoughtfully discrete table he’d found for them. Hearing the name she’d often used - among close friends and a few select strangers - in France on his lips brought an unexpected wave of calm over her and for nearly the first time since she’d been back she felt truly comfortable. 

“Viktor, you’re too kind as always,”she greeted warmly sliding in to a seat across from him. “Ah I’ll admit it took me a little longer than I expected to find it, I’m not as familiar with the area as I once was and the signage here is very… subtle. It was worth the trouble for a little privacy though, you know some of those reporters have actually set up tents at the Manor gates now.” She rolled her eyes irritably her lips pursing slightly as she thought of just what she’d like to do to those tents and their inhabitants before waving her hand lightly as though shooing away such thoughts. “Enough about them though, how are you?” 

.

Calling the signage ‘subtle’ was a very polite way of saying that it was practically falling apart and would’ve probably long ago done so if not for the thick roots of vegetation holding it together. It was a far cry from French cafes and restaurants, though Viktor was hardly complaining. After all, privacy was much more important and he was disappointed to hear reporters didn’t seem to respect Maelle’s. “That’s terrible.” He frowned. He wasn’t exactly unfamiliar with rude and stubborn reporters, but that didn’t mean he would ever get used to their audacity. “Can they do that? Is it legal to camp in front of your property?” And if it was, it certainly shouldn’t have been.

“I’m alright,” he said in response to her question, shrugging lightly. “Nothing new or exciting, but to be honest, I don’t want any excitement after what happened on Harry Potter Day. I was more worried about you, with the funeral and the raid… and now the reporters. How are you feeling?”

[imperiasviktor]

angelinaweasley​:

Everyone in Angelina’s inner circle knows how precious the Techno-fair is to her. She had spent her childhood summers completely immersed in the muggle world, running up and down her London suburban streets with a familiar pack of muggleborn kids her age. People who, until the Battle of Hogwarts, saw her every June as the sun fell asleep later and later each day. Angelina doesn’t necessarily miss that world, but she does miss being a part of it. There’s a sense of anonymity when rolling up in a nondescript sedan to the supermarket, jogging around muggle parks, and picking up new clothes at the mall that Angelina actively craves. Having to keep this side of her on the back burner makes Angelina itch. But with the arrival of the Techno-fair, Angelina can (somewhat) bring this to light among the wizarding public. For the moment, she has stepped away from her husband and children in order to explore on her own. In fact, she had left her parents with them as well. It really was a family outing, but Angelina wanted some time to look around for herself. 

She’s thrilled when she sees Viktor. Frankly, she hadn’t expected the famed quidditch coach to make an appearance. Like her, Viktor is known to be a more private individual. Angelina could certainly respect that, especially as she’s stopped a few times to scribble hasty autographs as she struggles to make her way towards him. Finally, with the fans dispersed, she approaches him, trying to hide her loud laugh. “Did you know that, back when we were children, muggles would use their pinky and thumb to show they’re talking on a flip phone? I feel like you’ve seen it at least once or twice,” she says easily. “But now, because of the smartphone, children tend to just hold their open palm up to their ear. It’s wild how fast muggle technology moves, really. Hold on.” Angelina digs into her robes, turning her back to the open expanse of people. She digs out a sleek phone of her own, similar to the one in the case they’re both looking at. Clicking it on, she’s careful to not be caught as she holds it out to Viktor. It’s a ridiculous scene, and the fact that she has to conceal it is ludicrous as well, but it’s for the best. That’s what she’s always been told. “I swear on Merlin’s beard I don’t use it to contact anyone else besides other half-blood wizards and my parents. But it’s so cool I can’t let it go. The camera is clearer than a wizarding one.” Putting a thumb on the home button, she’s quick to unlock the phone and open a blank text. “You have to try it, Viktor. Sending a text is faster than the newest Firebolt.” 

.

“Should I get in line for an autograph too?” He was joking, of course, though the only indication of that was the slight quirk of his lips. That had been one of his least favourite parts of professional Quidditch, the autographs. Not only was he unfortunately stuck with the signature he’d come up with at the age of fourteen (by the time he’d realised it was by no means elegant and beautiful like some of his fellow players’ were, it’d been too late to change it) but those interactions also opened up a world of possibility for small talk -- also not something he enjoyed too much.

“I think I have seen it, yes,” he said as Angelina explained about the gesture mimicking a ‘flip’ phone. He would’ve never thought of it on his own, but now that she mentioned it, it did indeed spark a vague memory from a lifetime ago. “So Muggles don’t use these flip phones anymore? What a shame, they seemed so compact.”

He watched silently as she took out her own version of this newer model; he didn’t agree with breaking the statutes, but he also wasn’t about to sabotage one of the few people he considered friends. And so he was careful to keep this phone out of sight of the rest of the visitors as Angelina handed it to him. “It looks very… modern. And I believe you, of course,” he was quick to add as she swore she only used it to contact others in the Wix World. It did look like an impressive device, he would admit that much. From all the little shapes and forms noting its different functions, it seemed like a very handy tool and Angelina’s excitement was tangible enough that he felt his smile growing. “This might come as a surprise to you, but I don’t really send texts. Who would I even send one to?”

[imperiasviktor]

recanteddeatheater​:

“Yes, just the one,” Draco confirmed, beaming. Ordinarily he would have left it at that – but ordinarily he wasn’t speaking to people whose company he found pleasant. Ordinarily he wasn’t speaking to foreigners who didn’t already know most of the private details of each other’s lives, the way British wix did. Besides, if he wanted to inspire Krum to open-up, he’d be best served by doing the same, wouldn’t he? And it wasn’t as though he were ashamed on either his or Astoria’s behalf. So he added, “Between Astoria’s metamorphmological issues and my own reliance on the Attisgalli Draught, we were lucky to be able to have a child at all – and even more lucky to have Scorpius. He’s the most marvelous boy. I’m sorry,” Draco added, not meaning it at all, “I sound like I’m bragging awfully, aren’t I? I fear I can’t help myself on this topic.”

Of course, Viktor Krum – if he remembered Draco at all – would remember when Draco hadn’t been keen to stop himself bragging about anything, meritorious or not. The fact that he hadn’t already made a polite excuse to extricate himself from the conversation indicated he had at least some tolerance for that sort of thing. Probably something that was a necessity to develop when one spent most of one’s life surrounded by the egos of other professional Quidditch players.

“He did find Hogwarts a bit…daunting at first,” Draco said, in a balance of delicacy and honesty. The humor leeched from his face and the smile he gave Krum was thin and brittle. “The poor child arrived with a bit of baggage attached to his name–” that baggage being the name itself, of course “–and children can be cruel.” Draco knew that quite well on both the receiving and the giving end; he doubted that someone who’d been deemed a Quidditch prodigy from such an early age as Krum would be unaware of the viciousness of children, either. “But once he made friends, he started to enjoy himself.”

It occurred to Draco with a bit of a shock that Krum might actually find said friendships relevant; always in the past when he’d thought about Viktor Krum, he’d done his best to ignore the man’s friendship with other Hogwarts students – but Granger was no longer “that filthy Mudblood,” and while his relationship with Potter would always be…complicated, the level of rancor involved had withered, at least – and Draco himself had changed from the bigoted, desperately obsequious brat he’d once been, so all the reasons for those  pretenses were long gone now. He thus confessed, “Said friends being Potter’s son and Granger’s daughter, believe it or not. And yes, it was exactly as awkward for us as you’re probably thinking,” he nodded, chuckling ruefully.

“We…actually contemplated sending him to Durmstang,” Draco admitted slowly, “but ultimately we decided he’d have had a hard time there too.” Possibly harder, in some ways; while his name wouldn’t have carried as instant a recognition, the possibility that those who did recognize “Malfoy” would react with more than mere unkind words and minor jinxes could not be discounted. “Not that Durmstrang doesn’t sound like a lovely place, because it does. But, well.” He flashed another brief, humorless smile. “Baggage, as I said.”

Draco couldn’t help noticing the displeased expression that passed across the other wizard’s face anymore than he could help his own flash of curiosity in response. He suppressed the urge to force his way into Viktor’s private affairs and said only, “Well, I’m glad you’re finding England to your liking enough to continue gracing us with your presence, anyway. Especially in light of all things considered. Our government can be a bit…reactionary when things aren’t going their way,” he added lightly. “A fondness for scapegoating, jumping to the easy conclusion, that sort of thing…although I suppose Quidditch prowess isn’t likely to come up on the Ministry’s list of excuses for blaming Muggle technology breaches on, eh?” he grinned weakly. At least Krum’s fame would insulate him from that sort of thing – much the way the Malfoy name had once been insulating.

“Ahh…I did not attend, no,” Draco said, wearing a brief grimace of his own. “I find it prudent to not be particularly visible at events related to celebrations or memorials of the war, when I can help it.” There was no reason to be so delicate with his words – Viktor Krum surely knew the broad strokes of Draco’s terrible past; everyone did – but that didn’t make the topic an easy one to talk about bluntly. At least not for Draco. His own father always took the subject in stride with an ease that Draco envied – but then, Lucius only regretted the results of his choices, whereas Draco’s guilt encompassed his every thought and act. “Scorpius was though, of course, and Astoria went up to visit him. Dreadful business,” he continued, his pale face blanching at the reminder of danger striking so close to the people most precious to him. “Were you there?”

He hadn’t been aware of Mrs Malfoy’s condition but was that really a surprise? He barely even knew anything of her husband save for the fact he’d been a Chaser on his house’s Quidditch team and that he’d made some poor choices decades ago. “I’m glad to hear things worked out in the end. And please, don’t worry about... bragging. I would not even call it that. You’re proud of your son, it’s only normal. And somewhat refreshing, I have to admit. A lot of people I know are only proud of their children as long as they do something to further the family name. It’s nice, hearing you be proud of your son simply for being himself.” Not that he was downplaying the boy’s accomplishments, by no means was that what he was implying. But in the span of a few minutes, Mr Malfoy had shown him a whole new side of himself and Viktor found himself enjoying this new Draco Malfoy’s company.

His initial surprise to hear young Scorpius had had a difficult time in Hogwarts was easy to shake off; his own perception of the castle was very biased, he knew, and it made sense that other children would treat Scorpius differently. Not even entirely their fault, Viktor would bet. He was very familiar with how one’s family might influence certain opinions and behaviours, after all. “You’ve got a strong boy, then. But I do think children shouldn’t have to be strong, especially at such a young age, if that makes sense. So I’m sorry your son had to go through that.” He was aware some people thought it was good to prepare kids for the viciousness of the world, but if Viktor ever had any himself, he would like for them to remain carefree and soft for as long as possible.

He couldn’t help a surprised laugh at the news that Scorpius’ friends had ended up being no other than Hermione’s daughter and Harry’s son. He’d been aware of some of the tension between them and Malfoy even back during the Triwizard Tournament -- despite Viktor not being the most observant person, it was hard not to notice the way Malfoy had talked about ‘Potter’ with such venom in his tone. There was no venom now, or at least none that Viktor could hear; he considered that a good sign. “Life is funny sometimes. And for what it’s worth, I think you did the right thing to send him to Hogwarts; friendships aren’t held in such high regard in Durmstrang. It encourages competition more and sometimes things get… out of hand.” By all means, they’d probably done Scorpius a favour by not sending him to Durmstrang. “It takes time to adapt, too. I only started feeling more comfortable after I discovered Quidditch and even then, it took me over a year to fully get used to everything.”

He wasn’t sure what prompted him to share that. It was a small fact about himself, not one he’d consider terribly interesting either, but still more than he shared with most. It was possible he felt bad for Mr Malfoy -- a feeling born from empathy, not pity -- and he’d wanted to offer something in return for his openness, but whatever it was, it was enough for him to let down his guard and allow a sigh as Mr Malfoy mentioned the Ministry’s tendencies to jump to conclusions. “You’d be surprised,” he said in regards to the assumption his former job would be enough for them to overlook him. Not that he expected, or wanted even, for his fame to act as a shield against accusations, but it was hard not to be at least somewhat bitter when he himself knew for a fact he was innocent. “But they’re doing their best.” As he kept reminding himself. “It’s a difficult situation to deal with. I had hoped things would calm down after the Calamity, but it seems history truly likes to repeat itself.”

“Despite your reasons, you were lucky not to be at the festival this year.” Viktor shook his head, mind still not fully wrapped around what had happened. The crowds had been vicious and while he’d done his best to help out other Wix leave safely, he’d also seen some injure themselves in the chaos. “No one could have predicted it, of course, but it does make me worry. How everyone reacted, the panic, the confusion. Completely understandable, but also very dangerous. I hope your wife and son are alright, at least.”

[imperiasviktor]

Exhibition at the Museum of Muggle Curiosities | Viktor Krum & Angelina Weasley 10th of November, 2020 Closed starter for @angelinaweasley​

It was a silly thing to take pride in, but Viktor couldn’t deny he felt good about his knowledge on Muggle technology. While most non-Muggleborn wix were sure to be confused by all the different items and gadgets at the exhibition, Viktor could say with confidence that he was suitably prepared for whatever technology he would find on display. His former wife, who’d grown up in the Muggle World, had been eager to share that part of her life with him and he couldn’t deny he’d shared that enthusiasm; in the end, Nadia had introduced him to all kinds of curious Muggle items, from television to phones, and all that information didn’t simply go away with a divorce.

In short, Viktor was feeling good as he walked around the exhibition, looking for Angelina. He avoided glancing too closely at the items since he’d promised her that he would let her introduce him to them, but he had to admit he was looking forward to the moment she would realise he wasn’t nearly as clueless as expected.

He finally spotted her in front of one of the displays and opened his mouth to greet her, but then caught sight of the little tag in front of said display and promptly forgot his train of thought. Smartphone, it read and Viktor’s eyes narrowed in confusion. “That’s not a phone,” he pointed out rather uselessly.

“Where’s the-” He gesticulated around, miming a flip phone opening and closing a few times. “Its lid?”

[imperiasviktor]

magicterrence​:

“Ah, I see,” Terry says in response. What a shame – he starts to think, and just then Viktor mentions a few distant connections by way of his parents. “Your former headmaster, Igor Karkaroff ,was an informant to our Ministry of Magic after the First Wizarding War. The information he supplied proved to be very useful regarding the rise of Dark Sentiment both in Britian and across Magical Eastern Europe.” These were tempestuous times, and the Ministry of Magic needed all the intel they could get. “We are once more, looking for such an informant based out of Bulgaria. I was wondering if you had any recommendations on who we should approach, perhaps one of your old schoolmates?”

.

Igor Karkaroff isn’t a sore subject, necessarily, but Viktor is still conflicted as far as his feelings about the man go. He was much like Viktor’s parents in some ways, taking him under his wing and trying to mould him into something ‘more’, but once again, Viktor had fallen short. He doesn’t linger on such thoughts, however, not when Mr Boot’s question is much more important. He lets out a dry laugh. “I can tell you who not to approach. It would be a whole list, and a long one too.” As far as who would be open to something like that, Viktor genuinely has no idea. He didn’t have many friends in Bulgaria and the ones he did have were mostly muggleborns. “I’m sure I don’t need to tell you to be careful, but, well. Some of my former classmates might react very poorly to a suggestion like that.”

[imperiasviktor]

recanteddeatheater​:

“My family would be delighted,” Draco said, and meant it. “We don’t get a lot of visitors these days,” he continued, his tone wry with an unspoken for reasons which I’m sure you can imagine for yourself. “Least of all ones with such honorable Quidditch pedigrees. It would be a treat for everyone,” he said, although he wasn’t actually sure about that; there was no way of knowing when his wife was going to have a good day and when she was going to have a bad, but if she wasn’t feeling up to company on the day Krum came over – should he even deign to truly do so, and wasn’t just making polite noises of which he had no intention of following-through – then excuses could be made then. There was no need to raise such an intimate subject now.

Instead Draco continued, “And I promise, there are absolutely no press allowed on the grounds of the manor at all, so if you do manage to embarrass yourself there will be no evidence of it.” Draco meant that, too…but what he also meant, and wanted to make sure Krum understood, was that there would be no record made of Viktor Krum socializing with a family of such heavy baggage as the Malfoys; no public reveal of his visit. Once, Draco might have used the fame of someone like Krum as nothing more than a way to draw the spotlight onto himself in turn, but those days were long gone.

There were some depths from which no amount of social climbing could lift one, and the Malfoys had found that a long time ago.

Draco’s son was a topic that never failed to lift his spirits, and he smiled fondly as he said, “He’s fourteen. Just started his fourth year at Hogwarts. He made the team just last year and he’s still very excited about it.” Deservedly so, of course; almost a dozen children had tried out for Chaser and only three had made it, one of them Scorpius. Of course he was excited; of course Draco nearly burst with pride every time he thought about it. “I’ll pass your congratulations along, thank you.” For all that Draco had joked his son thinking Viktor Krum a “relic,” he knew that wouldn’t stop Scorpius from being both flattered and flabbergasted when he opened his next letter from home and read that inside.

Krum’s answer to Draco’s careful inquiry about his family, while technically informative, contained very little information that was actually useful. Who were “they” and why had paperwork been enough to put them off moving to join their…well, whatever Viktor Krumw as to them? He could have been talking about a wife or husband and children or step-children, could have been talking about a brother or sister, could have been talking about his parents or about cousins to whom he was close…really, the possibilities were endless and Draco was enough of a pure-blood to understand just how endless and how convoluted family ties could be. He was also enough of a social pariah to understand that some questions were better dodged, so he resisted the (almost overwhelming) urge to pry further, and just said, “Well that’s a shame. Bureaucracy is merciless. I hope the Ministry at least doesn’t give you a hard time about arranging for portkeys so you can visit when you wish?”

It was almost funny, the irony of the Malfoys not getting many visitors because of their previous allegiances and the fact that the only visitors Viktor had had recently were Aurors sent over to investigate his involvement with similar factions. It would only solidify their suspicions, probably, if word spread that Viktor Krum was seen playing Quidditch in Draco Malfoy’s backyard. Not that it mattered; if Viktor was trying to avoid all potentials rumours, he would hardly ever leave his home. More importantly, though, Mr Malfoy seemed to have built a new life for himself and until he showed Viktor any reason to treat him with anything but respect, he would be nothing but polite to the man. “I’m looking forward to meeting your family, then. You only have one son, correct?” It wouldn’t be the first time a pureblood failed to mention a child, too focused on another’s achievements and talents, but once again, Mr Malfoy didn’t strike him as that type of parent.

It seemed some of his worries were unfounded, though, as Mr Malfoy reassured him there would be no press on the grounds of his manor. It was to be expected, probably, but it was still nice to hear confirmation of it. “That’s good to know. Though I think a headline about Viktor Krum bested by a child would make a lot of people happy.” And not just any child but Draco Malfoy’s; surely that would pay somebody’s rent for at least a couple of months. 

And it was much easier to make light of all that now than it had been twenty ago; back then, Viktor had taken every article to heart, had spent hours upon hours trying to figure what he’d done to give off such impressions and how he could act in the future to avoid bad press. It had been a bitter pill to swallow, that it wasn’t up to him what kind of stories were told about him, but he liked to think he’d learnt his lesson.

He genuinely enjoyed listening to Mr Malfoy talking about his son and his accomplishments. “He sounds like a brilliant boy. How is he enjoying Hogwarts? I remember I was very much in awe back in the day.” Not only of the castle, even -- they had their own castle back at Durmstrang, and in the end, it was all just stone. No, Hogwarts was so much more, from the people to the atmosphere, and Viktor thought it should be lovely to get to study there for seven whole years. Then again, perhaps it was different for people who grew up here.

The topic of the Ministry, however, was still somewhat of a fresh wound and Viktor couldn’t quite keep the grimace off his face at the mention of it. “Ah, no problems with portkeys, no. At least there haven’t been so far; I’m afraid I haven’t visited home in a while, it’s possible things have changed. Now especially, all things considered.” Because while his parents were purebloods, Viktor imagined travelling between countries was still tricky. It was part of the reason he hadn’t attempted to pay them a visit yet. He knew things were ever-changing with all the breeches and if the Ministry decided to close off travel to and from foreign countries, Viktor would much prefer to be stuck here as opposed to in Bulgaria. And now with this Dragon Pox outbreak, it seemed the situation was only worsening. That did bring a question to his mind, though. “Did you and your family visit the festivities in Hogsmeade a few days ago? It all happened so fast, it was crazy.”

[imperiasviktor]

oflupinx​:

     Teddy was glad that the treatments of Viktor were having good effects on his case. It was often that the man came into the hospital with symptoms of his past trauma that seemed like was neglected. While Teddy was concerned about the former Quidditch Player, policies of St. Mungo strictly instructed healers not to interfere with the patient’s choice of lifestyle. When did Teddy follow the rules, though? The countless times he’d tried to cheat his way through his Auror training or his OWLs even, it wasn’t until his sixth year when he actually started reading tomes of books. What a great discovery, that was. And what a relief it was that he was able to qualify for a Healer. It was truly his dream job.

     Teddy furrowed his brows and took out a napkin to clear the mess in his pocket caused by the candy. “No, I haven’t.” Which was weird. He’d suspect Harry would show somewhere since he would have the chance to see his kids. “He’s probably lurking somewhere, I doubt he’d miss on a chance to see Albus and James.” Teddy smiled at the mention of the Potter children. It was with joy that he talked for them, the little ones having a big part in his childhood. “Do you need him for anything special?”

.

He didn’t necessarily need Harry, but it would be nice to have him there as a third-party to carry the conversation along. It wasn’t that Viktor disliked Lupin, on the contrary, he was immensely grateful for everything the young Healer had done for him, but kids were not his area of expertise by far. He had no idea what to talk to them about outside of Quidditch and as far as he was aware, Teddy Lupin didn’t play. “I don’t need him for anything, no, I was just curious. People seem to be very excited about Harry Potter Day, I was wondering how Harry Potter felt.”

Teddy was his son, though, in everything but blood, so Viktor supposed that was probably strange for him as well. If it were Viktor in his place, he knew he would be. (Then again, Harry deserved a day dedicated to him, at least; Viktor’s father decidedly did not.) “Don’t misunderstand, but I’m surprised you’re not at St Mungo’s. If superstitions are to be believed, all magic is stronger today, I would think they will be performing a lot of procedures on Hallowe’en. Or do Healers not believe in things like that?”

[imperiasviktor]

magicterrence​:

Viktor’s question was polite as it was pointed, Terry indulges in another sip of pumpkin juice before answering, “Not official ones…” which are through the proper channels, he thinks. Terry clears his throat softly, “Again, I apologise for the intrusion and inconveniences on account of the Ministry’s misjudgment.” The words slipped effortlessly from his tongue with a facade of sincerity to match. He is practised in Ministry-related apologies, but this particular instance had irked him. Terry isn’t overtly egotistical and the Department of Magical Law Enforcement doesn’t report to him, but their constant and brazen disregard of bureaucracy when it came to matters of his jurisdiction hit a nerve. Perhaps it’s time he had a word with dear old Potter.“Thank you for your offer, Mr. Krum, I will relay that to the Auror Office.” Terry didn’t doubt Viktor in the slightest, but the wheels in his head are always turning. An opportunity is always present. “I don’t mean to sound rude, prying, or accusatory when I ask this.” Terry lowers his voice, “Do you still have connections within Durmstang?”

.

Misjudgment. It’s nice to hear that, to think there might be at least one person who if not believed in is at least willing to consider Viktor’s innocence. “No need for apologies, please. I… understand why there may be doubt about my allegiance.” Roots and origins are powerful tools, after all, as his parents taught him long ago. The only difference is that where they brought privilege in the past, they now bring suspicion and mistrust, and in light of everything Wizarding Britain has been through, Viktor can’t blame their Ministry for being cautious. The question about Durmstrang surprises him, but he also isn’t quite as stupid as people seem to believe and he has an idea as to where Mr Boot might be going with this. “Not any that would help, I’m afraid. Some of my former classmates have children who go there, but I’m not particularly close to them.” But there might be someone else, he remembers and the stab of guilt he feels as he speaks up again is familiar and dull. “My parents do keep in touch with their families, though. Is there anything in particular that interests you?”