XXIV

[alt_bellatrix]

As harvest grows nearer, it seems an appropriate time to look forward - in gratitude - to the coming bounty.

Our fields have had time ripen and flower in the sun. In His light, our pastures grow greener and more verdant still. Meanwhile, the world peaks in through the gates, eyes wide to all our marvels. Soon, we shall invite them to cut a waltz in the meadows, to drink from the pure fountains of our visionary cities, and to feel, if only for a moment, that golden touch of light.

Please, join me and grasp their hands in welcome.

Comments

Order Only

[alt_sirius]

Well, that sounds like code if there ever was one. That or Bella's suddenly been possessed by the soul of a poet.

Nah, probably code.

What do you lot think? Something to do with the schools' delegations arriving?

Though it's well hilarious to think of Bella waltzing through the wheatfields. That'll give me a grin all day, that will.

Private message to Hydra Lestrange

[alt_bellatrix]

Hydra,

In August I noted that you spoke with your cousin Nymphadora through the journals, about both your brother and your horse. Do you admit to this?

Private message to Lucius Malfoy

[alt_bellatrix]

It's so diverting to make them wonder where and what the glow comes from.


How is Cissy? Still gloating?

Re: Private message to Hydra Lestrange

[alt_hydra]

Yes, but I didn't write very much. She wanted to know about my horse and I never even answered, so I'm sure that she thinks I'm rude now. That's probably for the best.

From,
Hydra

Re: Private message to Hydra Lestrange

[alt_bellatrix]

Do not assume it is for the best. She's the daughter of a blood traitor and a mudblood, but neutral relations are ideal, at least until one gets a sense of where the smoke drifts.

And she's a relation, as well. Some Black blood to boast of, even if it's been tainted beyond measure. I would like you to strike up a correspondence with her. Tell her about your horse and all those other fuzzy things that you keep.

Re: Private message to Hydra Lestrange

[alt_hydra]

But why?

From,
Hydra

Re: Private message to Hydra Lestrange

[alt_bellatrix]

Because Mummy did the courtesy of asking you, first.

Re: Private message to Hydra Lestrange

[alt_hydra]

I see. I'll do it, then.

But, I don't have a lot of fuzzy things, just a horse and a rabbit.

Is there anything else I'm to talk with her about?

From,
Hydra

Re: Order Only

[alt_alice]

My first thought is she's gloating over springing some sort of trap.

She gives me the shudders.

Especially when she's cheerful.

Re: Private message to Hydra Lestrange

[alt_bellatrix]

Just talk to her about all those light, childish things you like to talk about. With your Auntie Narcissa and your Father and such. I'm sure she'll enjoy that a great deal, and you'll be doing Mummy proud in the process.

And then everyone is happy.

Re: Private message to Hydra Lestrange

[alt_hydra]

All right, Mummy. I'll try.

From,
Hydra

Re: Private message to Hydra Lestrange

[alt_bellatrix]

Don't say try. You know how I detest that.

Re: Private message to Lucius Malfoy

[alt_lucius]

Indeed. Not just them. Breakthrough in your work down on level 13?

Narcissa is well. She's currently playing agony aunt to your subordinate. Apart from the occasional glint in her eye, believe her gloating has passed. Discovering that the 'Barty' Dominic saw murdered was really Norah sobered her considerably.

Expect she is still brooding over her quarrel with Draco as well. Have told her not to fret over it; he's moved on to the prospect of French girls by now.

Re: Private message to Hydra Lestrange

[alt_hydra]

I know Of course. I'll do just what you ask.

From,
Hydra

Re: Private message to Lucius Malfoy

[alt_bellatrix]

Wouldn't call it a breakthrough, but we've at least got momentum again. A little creative thinking was in order.

I've gathered that Draco attempted to throw a bucket of cold water on her, as it were, and that it was not quite appreciated. There's something admirable in such a direct approach, even if Cissy is not the one to welcome it.

Re: Private message to Lucius Malfoy

[alt_lucius]

Indeed, well, should be interested to hear what you and Braithwaite learn on that front. Due for a visit down to DoM myself, at some point soon, to see what Augustus has been up to. Should like to find the time for more basic theoretical research of my own, but - as you know, we all have our specific tasks and duties where we may best serve Him.

Regarding my son's actions: Yes, that's my understanding as well. Suspect he saw me stymied by her obdurate attitude and decided he had to take action. Suppose it did not occur to him that the direct approach had been tested already - and failed.

Still, yes, it was gallant of him to try. Flatter myself that generally, the lad has a good head on his shoulders.

Re: Private message to Lucius Malfoy

[alt_bellatrix]

Indeed.

Draco represents you well. Perhaps he got carried away in his words to Barty's corpse, but I trust that Barty suffered no lasting sting.

Haven't seen Maule in some days, but that's to be expected down in level 13.

Private message to Braithewaite and Hopkirk

[alt_bellatrix]

Variable 4, Step 1: executed.

Re: Private message to Lucius Malfoy

[alt_lucius]

Not surprised if he was churlish to Barty, even if only posthumously; he has been jealous of Narcissa's attentions to our friend for some time. Over a year, in fact. Cannot fault him for feeling possessive of his mother's affections, though he could have shown more restraint. Confident Barty can also forgive the temporary breach of protocol.

You mean you've not seen Maule in Court? That is welcome news, presuming you have been often enough to gain a true sense of his imposition on dealings there.

Had not realised how swiftly he had moved following the Cup.

Re: Private message to Lucius Malfoy

[alt_bellatrix]

Yesterday I did not see him, but I've not yet been to Court today.

Maule's manoeuvres never escaped notice; it was but a matter of discerning who they were directed at.