Wishing You Were Somehow Near (Niko)

[Irina Rose Krum]

hey big brother!

I hope you're doing well - nice win by the Arrows last Wednesday! I always read Ginny Potter's article recaps in the Daily Prophet - you're quite the superstar eh?  I hope you're enjoying it though; I know you had talked about maybe looking into doing something else.  I hope you know I'll support you in whatever it is you want to do, Niko.  Don't be afraid of what Mum and Dad will think - you know I never do!  Ha ha.

Speaking of supporting your siblings, as I'm sure you've heard by now, the Triwizard Tournament is happening at Hogwarts this year.  Durmstrang and Beauxbatons student delegations arrived the other day - including Dan.  Thanks for the heads up!  But anyway, what I want to tell you is that I am entering the Tournament.  Yes, I know the dangers of entering a tournament like this, but that's part of why I'm doing it.  I have to prove myself Niko.  I have to prove I'm better than just a legacy of the Krum name.  You can understand that, right?

Write back soon - and don't come barging down here!  You concentrate on whatever you're doing now and I'll keep you posted on the Champion drawing on Halloween.  Oh, and the first Hogsmeade weekend is the second weekend in October -- if you feel like coming down for a day let me know!

love,
irina

@jill9

[Deleted]

Dearest Irina,

Why thank you! The team is doing quite well; although, we do have a few things we need to work on before we even imagine getting into the World Cup. And don't you go fretting about me and my career, Ree, focus on yourself, yeah? It's your last year. You've got a lot of things on your plate.

Well that sounds like loads of fun! Other than the part where you enter. You need to be smart about this, Irina. I know it sounds like a great game and it's your last moment to shine and such, but you could get hurt. You need to think of all of the possibilities that could occur during this tournament. I completely understand what you are getting at, but, darling, there's other ways to prove yourself than to just put yourself into a dangerous position.

However, I had no clue Dan was going to be at Hogwarts! Little rat didn't tell me...

Who knows? I can barge in...just be ready for me.

Always,

Irina Rose Krum

[Irina Rose Krum]

Niko,

Hey now, let me worry about you! It distracts me from the anticipation on waiting to see who the Hogwarts champion will be.  I have thought about all the dangers I could possibly face, and to me, it'd be worth it.  Anyway, my name is in the goblet now, so it's up to it to decide whether or not I am the worthiest of all Hogwarts students to compete.  Don't worry, you'll be the first to know outside of school.  Well, maybe second after Mum and Dad.   You'll know before the Prophet announces it, let's just go with that!  

Ha ha, that Dan can keep his secrets can't he?  Did you know that a boy the year below me, Adrian Greyback is his cousin?  They don't get on too well; Adrian didn't seem to happy to see him.  I didn't want to ask what that history is like, but Lily (Potter, you've met her) was joking how attractive she found Dan and Adrian was FUMING.  That could be because they totally are in love with each other but refuse to admit it.

You better tell the Appleby Arrows that you'll need to be excused for the Tasks if I am selected as Champion.  I fully expect you to be in the stands cheering me on as I face certain doom.  I kid, I kid!  Anyway, I hope you will come see us soon; I miss your face!  Write back soon.

Love,

Irina

[Deleted]

Dearest Irina,

You know you're incredibly worthy, Ree. The real matter of this is if you're ready for this type of commitment on top of school work and figuring out your career, yeah? Have you thought about how stressful this is going to be? Have you even told mum and dad? You do know dad's going to flip his lid, right?

Yes, I actually did know about Dan and Adrian. They've got their own issues, nothing anyone needs to be prying into. And yes, the famous Lily Potter. I know James, remember? Quite the family, them three. And guys can jealous, you must know this by now, Irina. But... That's not me giving you an in to dating!

Don't you worry, if you get chosen I'll be there for every task. I wouldn't miss it for the world.

Always,

Irina Rose Krum

[Irina Rose Krum]

Niko,

Thank you, it does mean a lot to hear you say I am worthy. I haven’t told mum and dad yet - I will obviously if and when I am selected champion. They already know that the tournament is happening (dad ALWAYS knows these things, have you noticed?) and they know I’m of age. I think mum would be proud I’m finally doing something to live up to the Krum name, since I still so resoundedly refuse to play Quidditch. And before you say anything, no I will not be trying out for any position - you can’t make me! Ha ha.

I already know my career path! I want to be a Cursebreaker; Lily’s uncle Bill is one of the top Cursebreakers, so I wrote to him a few times this summer. He’s been great to get advice from and really has confirmed my choice is the best option for me. I’m not sure if anyone else in my year will be joining me, but that’s okay; there were a bunch last year and I won’t be THAT far behind them!

Hey! If I remember rightly you’ve had your fair share of girlfriends, sir. And I’m sure that you have gaggles of fans simply SWARMING you now that you’re the Seeker for the Arrows. Besides, you know I dated James for a summer a few years ago (you know those two dates before deciding we were better off friends DOES count). I do know guys get jealous though (as do girls) but I suspect I’ll be too busy to meet someone new this year.

Keep me posted on your life - Anna mentioned she’s writing to you as well, do I have to give you a birds and bees talk too? He he, kidding!

Love you,
Ree

@jill9

[Deleted]

Dearest Irina,

Yes, I am definitely aware about how much dad knows. Thankfully there are some things you can hide from him however! But...don't do that. That doesn't build good relationships, trust me. Also, you think I'd bully you into Quidditch? I'm not that type of person, Ree, oh I'm hurt!

Well, I'm glad you've got your head screwed on straight with what you want to do! And congratulations on figuring out how to get to that point, as well as actually continuing with it. Stick to it, Ree. Don't let anyone tell you different, yeah?

I do have quite a crowd following me around everywhere I go...but there are boys and girls mind you! Not that I don't like it. It can be quite amusing sometimes. But no, I've not had a girlfriend you riot. Haven't had the time for one, never really wanted one either. Now you, on the other hand...

Hey now! Absolutely nothing is going on with Anna, you know this. We're just good friends. But nice try! Write back soon.

Always,

Irina Rose Krum

[Irina Rose Krum]

Dear Big Brother,

Alright, alright I get it! I sent Arthur with a letter to Mum and Dad letting them know that I officially entered the Tournament. That’s why this one’s being delivered with one of the school owls -- I’ll let you know just how much trouble I’m in soon. I’d never think you’d bully me into Quidditch! Mum does that plenty on her own haha. But seriously, I swear that every letter I get from her there’s always a hint or nudge towards that direction. You’d think she’d get it by now; Dad certainly does, and he’s fine with it.

I’ve been able to talk to him about going into Cursebreaking...he’s worried but he can see I am passionate about it. I’m afraid to tell Mum though to be honest (though why she thinks I’ll become a professional Quidditch player after years of not playing is beyond me). I think more she’s hoping me to join her in the Department of Magical Games and Sports. I have to be my own person though; as you say, be true to myself and sticking with what I want to do!

I just remembered a story which I think you’ll find amusing -- when Dan put his name in the goblet he looked over at us, smiled and then...fell flat on his face! He’s always seemed to be very put together and apathetic about everything, so I found it quite funny. I suppose to feel the full humor you had to be there.

I don’t know if I have time to meet a new fellow either! With schoolwork, the Tournament, unless you want me to settle for someone I already know, it seems unlikely. Too bad about Anna though, she really is a lovely girl!

Write me back soon and hope I don’t get a Howler from Mum about the Tournament!

Love,
Irina

@jill9

[Deleted]

Dearest Irina,

Well, I hope you're not in too much trouble! Just enough to make me look like the good one. But yes, dad can definitely be more understanding with certain things, surprisingly.

That's true. It's exactly what I say. Maybe I should listen to myself. And don't worry about mum, yeah? She'll get over it, especially after a few words with dad.

Well I'm sure that was quite funny for everyone involved. But I've seen Dan fall on his face many times before. However in a large group, probably would be more amusing than I'd think. And what do you mean someone you already know? What aren't you telling me, Ree?

And yes, Irina, she's quite the girl. However, I'm sure she's got other guys lined up for her, just like I told her myself.

Always,

Irina Rose Krum

[Irina Rose Krum]

Niko,

Yes, yes you should listen to yourself!  Fight for your dreams and whatnot.  I always will and if I have to fight for yours to come true too then I suppose that will be alright .  What is this 'hypothetical' other dream you have?  You were always far better at Herbology than me, so maybe a Healer?  Hmm?  Well anyway, I think you'd be good at whatever you set your  mind to!   See, pep talk from your little sister.  Hopefully it helped.

You caught me.  James Potter and I have declared our unrequited love for each other after all these years and we're running away together.  That was also sarcasm dear brother, in case you missed it.  That and Rory (James' girlfriend) would murder me, probably.  But out of curiosity, is there anyone that you know that you'd ACTUALLY approve of me dating?  Just so I have a heads up, ha ha.

Alright, alright, I'll lay off the idea of you and Anna.  There's a cute Beauxbatons boy that seems to be rubbing her the wrong way, but I think it'll turn into something once they're around each other more.  She can't stop talking about him at any rate.  We'll see what happens!  And if he crushes her heart I'll crush his.  Literally.

Have a good game tomorrow; you can KILL those Wimbourne Wasps!

Love,
Ree



@jill9

[Deleted]

Dearest Irina,

Yeah, yeah, yeah, Ree. I do listen myself... Sometimes. Depends on the day, I suppose. And there is no hypothetical dream. I'm doing what mum and dad want me to do, got to respect their wishes and all, yeah?

Very funny. However, James wouldn't have been too bad of a pick. And, absolutely no one, Ree! You don't need a boyfriend, focus on school, would ya? Don't give the other two girls ideas!

And it also seemed to me like she had a bit of a hidden crush but I wasn't going to say anything to her. She seemed very frazzled. Be a good friend.

Always,

Irina Rose Krum

[Irina Rose Krum]

Niko,

So you’re following Mum and Dad’s dream for you and not your own dreams. You’ve basically just admitted to me that they are different. So come on, spill! What is troubling you my favorite Appleby Arrow Seeker?

You know I have to grow up sometime Niko haha. Wouldn’t you rather me be with someone who you like than someone you hate? Though I suppose your initial reaction to any beau of mine would be hate (though hopefully not!) or at the very least wariness. No arranged betrothals though; there are several of those at Hogwarts and the majority of them seem to hate it (emphasis on the majority).

I’m always a good friend! Well, mostly. Sometimes I feel that I’m a better friend to my friends than my sisters. It’s hard though, with them being in Hufflepuff and me being a Gryffindor. I feel a bit separated from them. This year though Tania’s anxiety has reached a tipping point, so I’ve been trying to coach her through the attacks. I think it’s working...I hope it’s working. I hate seeing her like this. I hope Dan is trying to spend time with her like he said he would; she could use a big brother and well, since you’re not here, he’s the next best thing right?

Oh, I heard back from Dad about my entering the Tournament. He said he’s proud of me but reading between the lines I think he’s worried. Mum is beside herself with happiness; she even said she’d forgive me for not playing Quidditch if I won the tournament. No pressure, right?

Write Soon!

Love,
Ree


@jill9

[Deleted]

Dearest Irina,

Oh, nothing is bothering me, Ree. Honest. I've just got things on my mind like every other person on the planet. Doesn't mean this isn't my dream! Don't you worry about me, I've got it all handled.

Well if I could betroth you I just might! At least then I might like the guy...but either way I won't like them to begin with! They're...canoodling my sister! That's not okay, and it'll take awhile for me to get used to with a guy. So just be careful who you decide to choose, yeah? However, yes, I would rather you date someone that I actually do like.

I know it's hard, it's hard for me too. I just hope they, as well as you, know how much I love you and that if you ever need anything I'm only an owl away. I've got to remember to owl you all more, I haven't been a very good brother lately and I apologize for that. I should be there more.

Thankfully so! Dad went through a lot in that tournament...Cedric was a good friend of his. Be easy on him, he just loves you. As for mum, soak that in! She'll never say that again!

Always,

Irina Rose Krum

[Irina Rose Krum]

Niko,

Uh huh, alright well if you say so I won't harp on it.  But don't think I won't remember this conversation if some time down the road you announce your intentions to retire and go into something else!  Dad will understand but you might give Mum a heart attack.

I never meant to insinuate you're being a bad brother!  Please don't think that!  You're out of school and on a professional Quidditch team, that's a HUGE time constraint there.  Dan's not done with school yet obviously, so at least he's there for m us.  We have a new school counselor by the way, did I tell you?  Parvati Patil Macmillian but I think she may drop the last name since she's divorced.  She's also the new Head of Gryffindor so I'm sure I'll be seeing her a lot.  I think I'll talk to her about Tania's anxiety attacks; perhaps a trained counselor could do her some good.


I am BASKING in the glow of Mums' praises right now - surely when I'm not picked it'll be over, but hey I'll take it for a month.  Maybe I'll just marry someone she approves of and be done with it  Any suggestions?

Love you!

Ree


@jill9

[Deleted]

Dearest Irina,

Don't you worry, Irina, I don't plan on retiring Quidditch, or going anywhere else. That's not what I'm supposed to do, remember? And mom won't be having a heart attack either, however I think dad would have a bigger heart attack. I'm the only one carrying on the Krum name, I've got to play Quidditch.

It may be a big time constraint, but I've got duties as an older brother to continue with. I've got to be there for you three in times of need, and not only you, but Tatiana obviously needs to speak with someone. I do think speaking with Professor Patil will help out quite a bit. When mentioning it to Tatiana, be gentle about it. Or maybe I'll owl her and ask how she is, test the waters first.

What's the scratched out 'm' for, Miss Irina? Dan is here for whom? I'm glad he's there, trying to fill in for me, how cute.

I'm glad you're in mum's glory, someone may as well be, right? Take care, sweetheart.

Always,

Irina Rose Krum

[Irina Rose Krum]

Niko,

Don’t worry I will be gentle about it; Tania’s got enough on her plate than to add me getting cross with her. It’s also her OWL year, so I’d like Professor Patil to speak with her sooner rather than later so she doesn’t end up in the hospital wing. I think Dan’s spoken to her a few times too; he seemed rather intuned with her emotions, so I like to believe it helped.

Speaking of, the scratched out m means nothing, Niko. Dan’s just been a supportive friend of my entering the tournament, of course all the while goading that he’d crush me if we were to face each other. Hah! As if. You know I’d win hands down .

I have to dash, I’m meeting a friend to go climbing! Write back soon

Love,
Ree

@jill9