Bragi felt something tantamount to regret the moment the controversial question passed his lips, but he would later be proud of his social bravery, and grateful for Mr Crouch's tactful and helpful reply.

"All - all hypothetical, of course", the young immigrant said swiftly, with a hint of a stammer. Then: "thank you sir". A genuine smile, emotional sparks of both relief and gratitude evident in his slate blue eyes.

And so their conversation tied itself up neatly as they came to the doors, and Bragi would leave the Ministry of Magic feeling more welcome in Great Britain than ever before.

-fade out? :] -