Signum Vitalis (a dramione story)

In which there is smashing

They headed towards the bumper car arena with everyone chatting exuberantly.

"Unicorn horn is needed in many potions used commonly in magical healing. Why hasn't the department for Magical Creatures ensured a safer route to obtain this ingredient?" Shandra asked as the conversation turned to everyone's career fields.

"We find that the Unicorn's dislike for mankind has dampened efforts to make such a thing possible," Rolf replied.

"Yes," Luna cut in. "The American ministry is still uncomfortable forming an all woman department based solely on the more feminine traits rather than what they would consider true qualifications."

Shandra sniffed her disdain.

"The worry is based more on how well they would handle other situations," Rolf hastened to reply.

"Like what?" Shandra asked petulantly.

"There is worry that they would not be able to police the trafficking of unicorn products with enough strictness."

"Or some politician is worried they won't be as easily corrupted?" Shandra supplied instead.

"Do you have something similar to head girls in your magical schools?" Hermione joined. "They showed themselves to be quite capable of policing rowdy teenagers, the fear of all sane people."

"Oh, does that mean you are volunteering to be one of the pure maidens who tend the unicorns?" John asked.

"I don't like magical creatures enough," Hermione replied.

"Didn't Luna say you spent much of your time with the Professor of Care of Magical Creatures?" Rolf asked with confusion.

"Only because he was my friend. As long as they are treated well, I'd rather leave it to people who are more interested," Hermione said with a shrug.

"What about you, Shandra?" John asked teasingly. "Still want to be a pure Unicorn maiden?"

"Still?" Hermione was puzzled.

Shandra rolled her eyes. "Daryn's cousin let it slip at Daryn's music show that I used to really like Unicorns and the like."

"No," John added with delight. "He said you wanted to be the Unicorn and Fairy Princess!"

Shandra merely rolled her eyes again. "I was ten years old. I've decided to be something different when I grow up."

"Why do that when you could get your old dream?" John asked with a chortle. He turned to Luna and Rolf. "Couldn't you make the ladies' titles Unicorn Princess?"

"Shut up, John!" Shandra snapped.

"What?" John genuinely looked uncertain why she was upset.

"You are implying that a job reserved for women shouldn't be taken seriously when you mock it," Luna replied.

They had crossed from the indoor building to the outdoor bumper car arena. Looking back, Hermione saw that Daryn and Malfoy had been held back, chatting as they walked behind their two young charges. Jordan was happily rambling to Ari who listened solemnly and only replied monosyllabically.

Upon seeing the cars, Jordan jumped with excitement. "I want to go with Ari!" Ari swallowed but then smiled.

With the other people in line, there were only four cars left for them. "I could go with the children," Hermione offered. The three men looked at each other before all disagreeing out loud.

"I'm not going to share a car with another guy!" John said hastily. "I'll go with Hermione."

"Erm, thanks?" Hermione muttered, surprised when he wrapped his arm around her elbow.