Chapter 3
Chapter 3 of 21
MHaydnChapter 3
“Wring it out, baby.”
Mravinsky was conducting the Tchaikovsky Fourth and Filius was on the edge of his chair.
It was after dinner, actually a decent interval after dinner to allow the castle elves time to dispose of the debris from the meal and gather for the late night debaucheries from which the students were banned. Horace, Filius, and Adolf had insisted these were formal events, and while they might appear in an evening kimono, they were appropriately dressed and the elves could do no less. Against the initial objections of the castle elves, the trio had waved their wands and directed them to piles of elegant garments that belonged to no one.
“Bathe and dress for the occasion,” demanded the wizards.
Despite this imperious decree or because of it or because of the musical experience, the elves gladly brought out the vintage Port that had been neglected during the recent craze for stronger drink.
“It was the times,” said Horace. “No one thought about moderation.”
Moderation was relaxed Friday nights. In the midst of the elf-provided fruit, nuts, and brandy, the three wizards let it be known that everyone, including elves, should end the evening feeling mellow. To do otherwise would be to disgrace the occasion.
The coming week would be a trial. It might end in triumph or disaster, but at the end, generations of hard-working vintners and artists would provide relaxation.
After several months of this, Filius had a thought. “Do you think life might be too easy for us? Is it possible disaster looms because we have carved out a comfortable existence?”
“Yes, that is a possibility,” said Horace, “but that is no reason to feel guilty. If it weren’t for this splendid life we have created for ourselves, we would never have asked such a question.”
“Both of you have taught long enough that there’s no challenge left,” said Adolf. “Every weird question or wild stunt students can conjure, you’ve already seen, many times. Your boredom is no excuse to go looking for trouble, and besides, isn’t there an official police force? Aren’t they capable?”
“They’re not going to tell anyone about a problem they can’t handle,” said Filius.
“There is one situation,” said Horace. “A distant relative, Andromeda Tonks, can’t return to her family estate.”
Filius brightened. Adolf groaned.
The editor groaned. Men, culture, adventure. Next, there’s going to be a shoot-out at the Bolshoi ballet during the refreshment intermission for Dom Perignon. Where’s the romance, not to mention the erotica?
The editor reminded herself that the first rule of writing was to get words on the page.
Behind every flood lies the initial trickle, the miniscule rivulet leading the way to the unsuspecting plains that will soon be covered with water, the small seep that wends its way through the weak points of a dam until it cracks at the fissures, and so it is with the small human actions that eventually lead to overwhelming events, although, in the last case, the perpetrators are gifted or cursed with the hopes and fears of where their efforts may lead, and thus, occasions that appear insignificant are oft attended with such emotional burdens that the initiator experiences enough anxiety that performing what should be a simple task becomes a monumental undertaking prone to mishaps and the consequent regrets, with the mistakes especially painful since a simple exercise was bungled.
“Dialogue, dialogue, dialogue,” the editor muttered to herself, setting aside her preliminary scribbles and beginning with a new sheet of paper. Where was Biff when she needed him? Given his comprehension of romance, he was probably at some topless bar looking for inspiration.
Three crumpled sheets of paper later, she was staring bleakly at the wall. The spirit of short sentences had not come when called. Oh lord, why have you forsaken me? The one from whom the gods had flown threw her pen into the waste bin and headed home.
Biff, returning from a walk to clear his head, smoothed out the paper balls and read the editor’s scribbling. His muse had done better than she realized. He retrieved the pen from the waste bin. The ink flowed onto the page.
“Have you ever thought about studying nature? I think you would be good at it.”
That was so counter to what everyone else had said and, consequently, what he had come to believe about himself that what she said didn’t register.
“What nature?” he asked.
“Nature nature,” said Luna. “Animals.”
Draco would take it slow. He had become accustomed to being blindsided by Luna, and he had also learned that she was a good-natured and patient person who would explain everything and not hold his ignorance of essential information against him.
It gradually came out that she had to do a field study for her Magical Creatures course. Draco expressed no signs of disapproval whereupon Luna became emboldened enough to mention that she and her father could certainly handle it but an additional pair of hands and eyes would make it much easier.
“That’s the way of things,” said Draco.
“Well?’ asked Luna.
“Well, what?” asked Draco.
“Well, I thought you might offer to help us,” said Luna.
Observing the look of surprise on his face, Luna cursed her clumsiness. Any simpleton could have done a better job of approaching him and asking. She had botched it.
Draco, for his part, had visions of freezing his toes in some god-forsaken wilderness while scanning the landscape for fauna that no one knew existed, but the look of hope and dismay on Luna’s face made him wish for some acceptable solution. In his desperation, an idea came.
“I was thinking,” he said.
“Yes,” said Luna.
“I don’t know if it’s interesting enough or not, but there is an unusual life-form in or about my aunt’s country estate,” he said.
Luna, swept away on the tide of his possible agreement, could only nod yes.
“But it’s dangerous, and it may not be observable,” he said.
“Could we take a preliminary look?” asked Luna.
Then she remembered. “Draco, I have to do the field trip over the Holidays, and you may not be able to leave your family.”
Draco thought about his shattered family and said, “I think it will be okay if I’m home for Christmas Eve and Morning.” Draco thought about his shattered family and how good it would be to only appear Christmas Eve and Morning.
That weekend, with special permission from the Magical Creatures professor, Draco and Luna, accompanied by her father, went to observe the Black estate. They noticed what the authorities, totally focused on forces of evil, had not noticed. There was a band of lush flora around the mansion even though it was the beginning of winter.
Draco, the one more immersed in academia, said that even if they discovered nothing, Luna’s report would receive high marks if accompanied by pages of photography, especially twenty-four hour photography. Luna and her father were impressed, but not certain how to proceed. Draco said that he knew who to ask – that fount of knowledge, Herr Professor Galland.
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Latest 25 Reviews for Root Cause
36 Reviews | 10.0/10 Average
Loved all of the resolutions--Alain to escape back to Germany, him to harbour Theo and guide him. Seems that Padma will have her affluent family to fall back on. King Friedrich Wilhelm II was the monarch while Haydn composed, right? along with Nicholas II, Prince Esterházy being a major patron... what the students don't know or care about is still good for them to be exposed to--never know when it'll come in handy--thus sayeth another geek girl--lol! Cissy and Andy are survivors; I don't feel either will have regrets about their past liasons with Alain. It appears that the editor has accepted and values Biff for who and what he is and writes... Which is beautiful in and of itself on top of everything else in the story's arch. Lovely ending to Adolf and Hermione's storyline, so happy that Crookshanks gives his approval!
Thank you for an intriguing, dynamic adventure and tale! Looking forward to more!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thanks for all the reviews.
It would have been more appropriate for Adolf to ask about the monarch of Austria although there were several of them since Haydn had a long life. Adolf knows about Esterhazy. He remembers what’s important.
At its heart, the story is a celebration of geek girls.
At the risk of ruining the story, it can be given an open ended and more upbeat conclusion by adding a third paragraph to the scene with Andy, Cissy, and Adolf
Adolf saw the sisters exchange glances. Two fleet-footed deer were after the wolf. With a name like Alain Roeder, they would begin their search in Alsace-Lorraine, and they knew Alain’s ego would not let him decline high profile assignments with their attendant publicity. Padma might be equally tenacious. Andy and Cissy would greet Alain with a triumphant smirk. Padma might grab Theo by the lapels, shake him until his teeth rattled, and then cry on his shoulder.
The reader can choose.
Just as good the second time around.
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
That's good to hear. The question was what kind of naughty girl would Pansy like to be.
What is going on with Hermione? Curious to see where she is heading and the path(s) she might be choosing... Interesting bonding between the witches, survival and strategies--how to do so are vital. Enjoyed Cissy's acceptance of Luna, Draco & Luna being *together* and her reflection about Lucius 'He better say nice things, or she would bitch-hex him back to France.'--HA! Regardless of the Malfoy's innate coldness and cruelty, it seems Luna can not but help to protect all magical creatures, Draco being a very special one to her. Love the metaphors, details and tempestuous dynamics and elements of the Andy and Alain vignette, along with Biff and the editor's banter back and forth in between things. Great chapter!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thanks for the insightful comments. Hermione is on a dark path, unbalanced because her efforts to join wizard society have backfired. The older witches may be the first to offer acceptable advice to Hermione. Luna may bring needed warmth to the family. As Draco said earlier, "I think mum needs a daughter." Andy, who thought no one would ever want her, explodes.
Great chapter, looking forward to more.
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thank you.
The visit to the zoo was very interesting,is Cissy in for a surprise ? we will have to wait and see. Poor Biff, Draco and Luna seem to have their own ideas of where the story is going.
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thanks for the review. Responding to the zoo scene requires some empathy with animals. Draco and Luna appear to be an amazingly resilient pair.
The writing and scenario is as powerful as the first time I read it as a one-shot and as evocative then as now within this multi-chaptered work. Powerful, effective, a very striking development between them. Wondering about Pansy and Adolf's possible, continued discoveries of one another, and looking forward to more!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Glad to hear the chapter survived repetition: the first time as PWP, the second as character and plot development.
Enjoyed the contrast of the editor's reflections and depiction in the first vignette with the second one, both very powerful in each one's content. Luna's and Padma's family's 'gifts' for protection-HA!Enjoyed as well Biff's contribution--his style, cadence, rhythm, technique and dynamics between the two characters and atmosphere, description and pace. 
Love the different impressions each section makes, as always!
Looking forward to more!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thanks. For the editor, the second effort is an elaboration of the first. More hyperbole about everyone's opinion of the Malfoys. You have a point: cadence and rhythm in erotica is difficult.
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thanks. For the editor, the second effort is an elaboration of the first. More hyperbole about everyone's opinion of the Malfoys. You have a point: cadence and rhythm in erotica is difficult.
So glad that the ladies at The Pole and the Feather helped inspire Biff's Muse
Enjoyed his inspired development of Theo and Padma's relationship set against a beautiful sunset, Pansy's assertiveness and Adolph's receptance, the boys getting into samurai lore and the inclusive possibility of the girls and any contribution they may have to offer to their game. Love the contrast of the editor's contribution to the Alain and Cissy underplot with Biff's addition; I love the supernatural elements layered on within the innate wizarding world: the beast, the entity, the possible connection or universality of either/them--it allows the reader's imagination to interpret the layers in so many ways: symbolism/metaphorical, allegorical, etc.--all intertwined, jolting and all encompassing at the same time--an exceptionally satisfying reading experience. Thank you again for such a multifaceted tale!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thanks for the kind words. I think the review reflects your imagination and ability to make connections. There is a dark current running through the story, and the separate vignettes each create their own impression. The Bayesian samurai scene is outrageous, but it shows Ravenclaws at play.
Enjoyed Biff's exploration further of insight into Luna, in her scene with Padma. Discovering that Luna and Draco have indeed connected was, for me, a viable happening. Perhaps it is because that Biff has written Luna potentially led into a romance, a quite 'acceptable' one for those who are sensitive to canon Luna involved and portrayed in a non-pedophilic way, as Draco (he, Harry & Neville are the youngest of their year/peers by a year) is her age, so their interaction is rather novel, innocent, and yet due to both's keen maturity by necessity beyond their years due to each one's unique background, it is very intense and 'adult'. It is interesting to see her expressing herself with Draco, as we only get a thin (perhaps one-sided) slice of her in canon, and all that we are given by JKR is that she goes on to get married to Rolf Scamander and have twins, etc.Sorry to carry on so much, it's just that I'm intrigued by Luna, adore the little of her that I've been exposed to, and enjoy when an author portrays her richly and with sensitive complexity as you have done.Enjoyed the editor's exploration and development of Alain and Cissay, and Adolf and Hermione's developing interaction. Looking forward to more!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thanks for the review. Musing about Luna is appropriate since I did mention what a problem she was to write. I'm a poor Potter scholar, but Luna appears to be someone wise about other's dilemmas. The basis for this characterization is her comment, 'It's like being with a friend,' and her picture in her bedroom of fellow students intertwined with the word 'friends.'
The zoo sequence is more revealing than Cissy realizes.
Earlier,I had an inadequate response to your comment about Draco and Theo coming into their own with the Crystal demo. It was a public display of what Padma and Luna had observed previously with Theo's essay writing and Draco's flight of imagination. It was left to the reader to imagine what this means to two Ravenclaw witches. Similarly for Hermione and 'Dunkle Weg.' I can't conceive of Ronald or Severus concocting such a thing for her entertainment.
Response from nagandsev (Reviewer)
Probably shouldn't be commenting further at this point as dental pain is still affecting me--just wanted to reiterate that I enjoy the musings about Luna, and also, the basis for this characterisation 'It's like being with a friend' as well as the mural she had painted always struck me profoundly & poignantly (when reading the books) about her and what I perceived as her loneliness and wish for interaction & what she imagined true friendship was with others/her peers, etc. So it's wonderful to see her and Draco interacting. Also her raging against how she is labelled by others who can't seem to see her true inner core. My comment about how her adult life ended up I only thought of because, against how others perceived her (and how so many write her in the fanfic world), she was able to get on with her life and capable of having a relationship, etc. Okay, best stop here. Just I'm enjoying this tale and am looking forward to more!
Yes, I think Alain must tread very carefully with the Black sisters; they might be unchartered territory even for someone such as he. The tension between the editor and Biff is building up--something is about to explode, and not just metaphorically! 'Write what you know, she thought. She knew selfish, cold-hearted bastards.'--HA! Hmmn, Draco's belief's about Luna's perception of him are one thing, but might he be surprised to find out if he's wrong? Or not... can't wait to read more!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Okay, you discerned two mature women, wondering if anyone could care for them, warily approaching and teasing a newcomer. Draco was hurt, and he is protecting himself.
Uff! The entity has seeped through and is quite aggressive--or perhaps, protecting its own interests? Andy and Cissy's predicament will need more aid or understanding, both--not all is resolved yet. Pansy is very attuned, seemingly beyond her own awareness and control... although it can be recognised by another. Enjoying the addition of Prof Alain... What other secrets will he disclose about our Prof Adolf? 
Hmmn, Draco is coming into his own... but at what cost to him? How will this affect Luna's perception of him further? Great chapter!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thanks for the review. The entity has revealed how dangerous it is. The story tracks six witches who are outsiders reconnecting, and to date, it has slighted both Andy and Cissy. Glad you are enjoying Alain since some fans intensely dislike original characters. A future revelation by Alain about Adolf will seem mild to readers, but it will have a significant effect on his relationships. Draco has not recovered from his loss.
Draco and Luna have come to a halt... Their impasse seems irreconcilable and previously unforeseen by both.:-(Enjoyed the different interactions between Prof Galland and Hermione, and then his interaction with Pansy; each sheds light on further dimensions of each one's character--yum!Enjoyed the editor writing her dialogue, and regardless of not expanding his horizons, Biff's depiction of Hermione and Flitwick--what will it cost Hermione? Some grave loss of friendship? Identity? Reading on!!!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Enjoyed your comments on this section.It is a chapter of betrayals: professional transgression by Adolf, shattering by Draco, deep by Pansy, self-deception by the editor, lack of accommodation by the Wizard World, cynical by Filius, and life-changing by Hermione.
I disagree with Biff. The most difficult person to write into a romance is Luna since I am sympathetic to the point of view that says a relationship with canon Luna is nigh on pedophilia. This chapter sees her in full, feminine rage - betraying her old persona.
The editor's contribution on the 'complicated human interaction' is poignant, lovely... but very poignant... even more is her wish to delete it... Draco's miniscule but growing observations and concern about what Luna would think & feel about him and his actions are intriguing. As are Padma & Theo's developing relationship, with a very observant Cissy around.;-)'Biff raged.' HA! I agree with his observation about Pansy and Hermione. His frustration is causing him to convey the differing opinions of Horace and Adolf in a very enlightening way--great chapter! (Hope this is coming across coherently, recovering from dental surgery, but determined to catch up on some reading!)
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Glad you enjoy the editor's spiels. they are difficult to write since it is not my natural style.
Luna is taking over Draco's thoughts, Theo is becoming bolder, and Cissy is a lonely, middle-aged lady.
Horace's opinion is anti-romantic enough and counter-fandom enough that it's a bit of a shock.
[I wish you a complete, speedy, and pain-free recovery.]
Luna sees the world as no other, I wonder what is wrong with the bunnys.
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thanks. The unique view that Luna has of the world is one of the things the story tries to preserve although it is muted as Luna, along with the others, is going through a transition.
Herr Professor Galland's reception and interactions are intriguing--how everyone is responding to him and what each character projects onto him--looking forward to the continued revelations of his responses to them; Draco and Luna's development does have me wondering what their research will lead them to discover either about the bunnies, themselves, both. And of course, Biff and the editor's contributions, observations and inspirations are a delight and issue for intrigue and wonderment how and where their development will lead. Looking forward to more!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
You may have discovered a central theme of the story (unknown to the author, as these things go). Herr Professor Galland is an unknown quantity in a time of disillusionment. The two who appear to be the least adrift, Padma and Theo, have the least to do with him.Luna's discovery becomes important.
Oooooh, things are moving onto a new level with all! Padma and Theo have bravely committed to *something*; Luna and Draco are drawn to each other, and the editor and Biff have arrived on the threshhold of *something*--must read on quickly!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Things are finally happening. The premise is that in this uncertain new world, everyone is acting cautiously.
Love the array of interactions going on, revelations of perceptions of one another, and the editor and biff taking risks and pushing themselves onwards and into each other's territories!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Biff and the editor are pushing themselves - and showing signs of stress.
Love the contrasts of the editor's and Biff's inspirations, along with all of the dialogues and pairings, their observations and speculations; the nuances and interactions reveal so much, so concisely--reading on!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thanks. Andy and Cissy are plotting. Luna and Padma are revealing themselves as Ravenclaw witches.
Don't worry Biff, chicken soup can cure anything.
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
We hope so. He's in need of serious rejuvenation.
Everyone seems to be dancing around eachother, including The Editor and Biff.
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
The six women in the story are going through a transition period, and they are attracted to men who may or may not be treacherous. The editor wants to write a psychodrama, and Biff wants to write the sequel to 'My Wand Is Quick.'
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
The six women in the story are going through a transition period, and they are attracted to men who may or may not be treacherous. The editor wants to write a psychodrama, and Biff wants to write the sequel to 'My Wand Is Quick.'
Mmmm, both The Editor and Biff seem to be letting quite a bit of plot creep in.
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Readers are being treated to an epic fail, which they may or may not find amusing.
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Readers are being treated to an epic fail, which they may or may not find amusing.
Mmmm... can't wait for the next chapter, as the revelations of Biff's Muse coinciding along with the editor's is evolving in its captivating way: will Herr Professor Galland be safe from anyone's whims--Filius', Horace's, Draco's--Biffs?:-)Looking forward to more of the Lovegood's, Draco's and Adolf's collaborations!
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thanks. We'll have to see if just Biff and the editor can provide enough variety and entertainment. Herr Professor does appear to be dragged into things. Their collaboration is the central plot.
Mmmm... can't wait for the next chapter, as the revelations of Biff's Muse coinciding along with the editor's is evolving in its captivating way: will Herr Professor Galland be safe from anyone's whims--Filius', Horace's, Draco's--Biffs?:-)
Looking forward to more of the Lovegood's, Draco's and Adolf's collaborations!
I hope we will see more of Luna and Draco , and I don't blame Hermione taking exception to Pansy's knee placement 
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
There will be more Luna and Draco as the two adapt to the new world. Is Hermione jealous because Pansy is a better flirt?
Yea!!! Biff is back 
, can the rest of the staff be far behind ? eagerly awaiting more. 
Response from MHaydn (Author of Root Cause)
Thanks. I didn't know Biff was popular. This is a milder meta-story than usual with only Biff and the editor struggling to produce something for the fan girls.