The newcomer was none other than Nymphadora Tonks. The beautiful young woman froze briefly, then gave a bright laugh and greeted them in her customary southern English manner. "Hallo, Lupin, Vaughn."
"H-hello..." Lupin's hands clenched nervously into fists.
Tonks scratched her head and blew a bubble in confusion. She felt as though Lupin was about to punch her.
Ignoring Lupin's bizarre reaction, Tonks walked up to Vaughn and said bluntly, "Vaughn, you said in the paper airplane that you needed me for a mission? Go on, tell me. I can't wait."
Vaughn smiled. "So enthusiastic. You don't want the Christmas holiday?"
"No." Tonks did not hesitate. "You know, I was always following Kingsley Shacklebolt around before. That guy fusses over everything and treats me like a child. Now that I've finally officially finished my training, I don't have to be sheltered under Mother Hen's wings like some chick anymore. All I want now is to advance my career as quickly as possible and become an Auror who can stand on her own."
"Ambitious and spirited!"
Vaughn said with satisfaction, "I do have an important task for you. Today and tomorrow, you'll serve as a special envoy of the Wizengamot and inspect C's werewolf settlements in various cities."
"—Inspect? Inspect what?" Tonks looked utterly baffled.
"The werewolves' living conditions, holiday arrangements, the daily lives of werewolf teenagers and children... Everything you can see must be documented. Remus Lupin will accompany you throughout as your guide. If there's anything you don't understand during the inspection, ask him!"
"Huh?"
Over on the other side, Lupin looked stunned, his mouth opening and closing soundlessly.
Tonks glanced back at the dumbstruck Lupin and scratched her head. Something felt strange, but she could not put her finger on what it was. After thinking about it, she