Order Only: Private message to Padfoot

[alt_lupin]

Ran into Ron Weasley on his way out of the hospital wing. He was in good spirits, after being ID'd by some DE Enforcer who hit him with the transformation spell and barely getting away with his life.

I'm

I don't

I'm so tired of this. They're children. Why are they the ones

Is there any way for us to kill Bellatrix Lestrange? Take her down, and the center won't hold.

Comments

[alt_sirius]

Well, that's just what I was saying last night.

Before Harry - when he convinced me to let him go ahead with his plan, we talked about the risks that James and I took during our first go-round with Voldemort. And yes, we were young then, too, but at least at first, we didn't have children to take care of.

Now it's bordering on ridiculous. We're the ones who're meant to be protecting them, not putting them on the line. It was different before, when we couldn't work openly, and they were the only ones in position to make an impact. But now - there's no reason for it.

I want to talk to Alice and Rachel about moving every Auror under 21 into a reserve status. Let those of us who are already long in the tooth assume the risks for a change.

As for Bella ... I don't know. We thought that would be true of Voldemort, and it wasn't. But then again, if she goes, who's left who can organise them all? Dolohov? He's got the charisma, to be certain. Rod won't lift a finger without someone forcing him to do it. He'd rather retreat, and besides he's about to be a father again. He won't put himself in danger when there's no need. Rowle's a puppet. Travers is not leader material. So. Maybe.

What about - I mean to say. Usually we stay in on the full moon. But if you take Wolfbane there's really no reason to hide, is there?

Werewolves of London? Great single.

[alt_lupin]

Do you think Rachel has any intel about the layout at Buckingham? Where we'd go to find her?

[alt_sirius]

If she doesn't, Montague would have had. Unless they've changed everything round, but I doubt it.

[alt_lupin]

Shall we invite Montague by, privately?

[alt_sirius]

You want to keep this between us? What makes you think he won't go and tell someone?

Anyway, I'm not interested in a suicide mission, kamikaze-style. I'm open to taking backup. Loads and loads of backup.

Just not Ron, Justin, Draco, or anyone their age.

[alt_lupin]

If you think we can persuade Rachel to keep this job to the proper adults, then let's have a meeting -- her, us, Montague, Alice if she can find the time.

I wish Severus

[alt_sirius]

I think it's a better plan than we've had for a while, and a better chance. And if it means leaving a dozen or so able wands behind, to only be called in when the worst wave is over, she'll see reason.

And if that doesn't work, I'll use my boyish charm.

[alt_lupin]

That'll work on Rachel but how are you going to convince Alice?

[alt_sirius]

Moony, you wound me! My charm has always worked on Allie!