(Just after daybreak Miroslav, a large snowy owl, swoops over the Hospital Hut, circles twice and lands on the front porch. Tied to his leg is an elegant envelope, decorated with gold borders and the Dragulia coat of arms, and smelling of balsam fir. Clutched in his other claw is a tiny potted moss from the Carpathian Mountains, useful for Manticore stings. The Owl sets that carefully...even delicately...on a bench. Then he hoots softly, and scratches at the door with his free claw. The envelope contains the following message...)

Madame Tulojow Nagde
Somewhere between the pantry and the kitchen...
The Hospital Hut
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Dear Tulo,

I hope this note finds you, and the students in your care, well.  I am writing to let you know that Miss Fauna Blake has invited me to address a group of students on the subject of werewolves. From what I am given to understand, the Deputy Headmaster is less than enthusiastic about the idea, but has reluctantly given his consent, on the condition that a speaker of his choice will speak after me, doubtless to refute all that I say.

I suppose Master O'Morain assumes because I come at the invitation of Miss Blake, that I am unquestioningly pro-werewolf. While this is not necessarily true, I wish to encourage neither prejudice nor naivete.

I would be grateful for any guidance you could provide, on how I might promote the cause of fairness, and provide accurate...not exaggerated and sensationalist...knowledge about werewolves.

Of which...as you know...I have considerable experience...

In the meantime, I remain as always,

Your devoted servant,
Vlad Dragulia






 

Tulojow Nagde
Second Floor Balcony
The Hospital Hut
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Vladislaus Dragulia

My dear Vlad,

Your letter, indeed, found me doing quite well.  The students here have, likewise, been doing well - a fact which has a direct correlation to the amount of time I have to relax and catch up on the daily to do list.  We'll see how long this lasts; I can be ever hopeful.  Thank you for the moss - I hope it will remain a simple, pleasant splash of greenier on my windowsill.

I'm glad to hear you'll be coming to visit with the students.  And, I'm glad to hear you received permission to do so, as well.  That certainly makes it easier than finding a way to sneak you in.  I'm only being partially serious, of course.  Offering the students two opposing perspectives is a good way to go about this - or any educational endeavor.  I've always believed it's better for people to come to their own well-informed decisions, even if I don't agree with them. 

As you know, I'm probably not the best one to ask about approaching such manners in a politically neutral or reserved manner.  I've always believed being honest and truthful is the best way to go.  If I were you, I would say what I have to say and allow those listening to agree, disagree, be angry or otherwise flustered.  You are aware Declan O'Morain will provide an opposing view so might as well, as one might say, tell it like it is.  I know I have my own personal beliefs on the matter. 

So, as far as I'm concern, might as well speak honestly and openly.  Better to be honest and offend people. 

I invite you to stop by the Hospital Hut during your visit.  I'd be more than happy to participate in any recapping, venting or ignoring of recent events you might want to do.

Your's Truly,
- Tulojow

Vladislaus Dragulia
The Study
Murray Manor
Wiltshire

Tulojow Nagde
The Second Floor Balcony
The Hospital Hut
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

My Dear Tulo,

I think you know that I am not one to care overmuch whom I offend, especially if I think they are wrong misguided. I understand that Kurby Bagnold will be coming to express the 'acceptable' point of view; that is, the one approved by the Deputy Headmaster. I do not know Bagnold well, as my time of taking on renegade werewolves most likely ended while he was still in nappies. However...I observed his behavior toward Miss Blake at the COMC Holiday Mixer; and it was reprehensible. I seriously doubt that he will be any different when he comes to Hogwarts.

As you know I have little patience when it comes to bullies, and I suspect I shall be taking you up on your kind  offer of a place to vent afterwards. And...as I will not be permitted to respond to whatever he says...perhapsyou might also have some idea of a place where I might arrange to meet with students later, should they have any questions for me.

By the way, I am shocked by the very idea that you might suggest I would ever meet with students without administrative approval, or require to be sneaked in to such an...unauthorized...meeting.  *grin*

I remain as always,

Your friend,
Vlad

Tulojow Nagde
Second Floor Balcony
The Hospital Hut
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Vladislaus Dragulia

My dear Vlad,

I know you're not one to worry about fitting in - this is why we get along as well as we do.  And, I wouldn't worry too much about Bagnold.  Keep in mind, this get together isn't mandatory.  The nature of this event is going to help ensure the majority of attendees are, at least, open-minded.  Hopefully, you won't just be preaching to the choir but at least most will be willing to listen.  The kids that just want to hear Bagnold's side of the story are less likely to show at a werewolf discussion panel.  He, very well, might not be pleasant but Fauna Blake's a remarkable young woman.  Let him behave like an ass if that's what he must do.  I have all the confidence it'll only strengthen Fauna's resolve.  I am sure she can handle it. 

If this meeting's open to staff, I'll be there.  Even if they don't allow you to speak again after Bagnold, I wouldn't mind offering my own perspective.  I'm sure I'd never make it on the official plan but such formalities have never hindered me before.  Either way, the Hospital Hut is more than open to anyone that wishes to discuss the matter after the fact.  There'll be an abundance of chowder and biscuits awaiting at the Hospital Hut for any post-verbal-spat venting or discussion. 

If you think I bought your claims of being shocked than I also have an honest politician you might want to meet.  Not to mention a flying pig I'd sell you for ten galleons.  One of a kind. 

Your's Truly,
- Tulojow