Adam was tired, both from training and from the increased stress levels in his department as all of the qualified aurors tried to track down cursed magical objects. He wished he could help — or that they would let him help, rather, because he knew he could help. But, alas. He was still very much in training, and would be for another year and change.

So a little mental break was in order this week-end, he thought, and a ribbon cutting ceremony (with the promise of some free merchandise) sounded like an excellent way to burn off steam. Most of the people here seemed to be wealthier women, but that didn't bother him. If he got something girly as his door prize, he could pass it on to his mother or sister.

The room they were ushered in to did bother him, though. Adam eyed the nearest wall suspiciously and felt inside his coat pocket for the butt of his wand, just in case.