Order Only: Private message to Mr and Mrs Longbottom

[alt_terry]

Dudley and I would like to formally request permission to transfer to the Sherwood Band. We'd like to join Tim and Finbar on the Band's rescue and fighting force.

I know neither of us have had as much classroom time as some of the others who've been here since the Order brought them in as babies. But I can apparate now, and besides, I can do the animagus transformation. You know I've been working hard on my defence drills, and Dudley's been learning hand-to-hand combat with Mr Lee.

We both know a lot that we think could be helpful to the Band. Please don't think this has anything to do with us being unhappy here. Absolutely not. But you've been training us up so that we can do more than hide. You've also taught us that being part of a community means pitching in to help.

So. We want to pitch in on the more dangerous stuff now. But we promise to obey our squad leaders and follow all their protocols.

Will you let us go? Please?

Comments

[alt_alice]

John mentioned you'd been giving it some thought.

I must admit, I

Well. I need to give it some thought myself. But I'll let you know by tomorrow.

[alt_terry]

That's appropriate and we expected it, because we both know it's a big step. But we really do think we're ready for it.

[alt_alice]

You make some good points.

I can see where you're coming from. I can. I just need to chew it over a bit.

[alt_terry]

Thanks. We'll be waiting for your decision.

[alt_alice]

Honestly, love, I just wish with all my heart that you didn't have to be in this position to begin with.

You've had to grow up so very fast.

I can't change the world we're living in, but I can't help but wish I could keep you here and keep you safe, as unrealistic as all that is.

You deserve the very best, Terry.

And I know that respecting your wishes is a part of that.

[alt_terry]

Please, don't feel guilty or anything. I've always felt that you've given me the best. You and Mr Longbottom have been the only thing close to parents I've ever had.

Since you're good ones, you already know that a parent's job is to help kids grow up so that when they're grown, they're ready to leave the home. You've done that.

No matter what you decide, Dudley and I will always be grateful.

[alt_alice]

I expect to see you and Dudley back here for Sunday dinner every week. If either of you get sick or hurt, you'll tell us right away. And if you're being asked to do something that you aren't capable of, you ought to be open with your squad leader rather than put yourself and the rest of your squad at risk. There's no shame in knowing yourself fully, and being able to admit when you don't know how to do something. If there's something you'd like to continue to work on with us, we can always help you with training when you come back on Sundays.

I also expect that you'll keep an eye on Dudley, Terry, and make sure Tim and Finbar do the same. He's more vulnerable than the rest of you are, because he can't apparate on his own and is not as capable of defending himself against a magical attack.

We'll start getting together supplies for you both, and go through some extra training drills before you leave. We'll also talk to Sherwood and make sure there'll be accommodation for you both. If they're prepared to take you on, we're prepared to let you go to them.

And if you've got extra time off, love, I hope you know that you are always welcome here. You don't have to just come on Sundays.

Private Message to Terry

[alt_frank]

hey kiddo.

remember, you've always got a home here.

and no unnecessary heroics, yeah? you get hurt, you get hungry, you get in over your head, you just make sure you take care of yourself or get yourself to someone who can. because like Al says, you're worth it.

you've got to believe it too, though. not enough for us to say it. you've got to believe that it's worth it to keep yourself safe. you don't think that way, you end up taking too many risks. trust me on that one, alright?

[alt_terry]

All noted. And sure, we'll be back for dinner, count on it. Bet we'll be the envy of a lot of people at Sherwood, having the chance to come back once a week for Victor's cooking (and the company, of course).

Of course I'll keep an eye on Dudley. I do feel responsible for him, since he's here because of me.

Thanks, I'll wait to hear how long Sherwood thinks it'll take to free up a bunk for us. Or a mat on the ground, anyway.

Yes, I know. This will always be home base for both of us.

Re: Private Message to Terry

[alt_terry]

No unnecessary heroics, sir, I promise. However, I won't forswear necessary ones, like if I have to do something risky to save a life. I want to live till the end of this war though, believe me.

I do obey orders. Maybe there's still enough of boot in me that will be useful that way. Funny...I never thought there was much of anything about boot that could help me in my new life. But boot was hyper observant, he could move around quietly, and he never disobeyed orders. I won't be too proud to use those qualities, I promise.

I do have the Professor form, don't forget. Come to think of it--do you think I could meet with Sirius once or twice before I go? Just to talk about how an animagus form can be most useful in a dangerous situation, or even a battle if it can't be avoided?