(no subject)

[alt_narcissa]

Well, that was an entirely pleasant day. Until it wasn't.

As is our family tradition, we gathered with the extended branches of Black, Rosier, Pennifold and Lestrange on Boxing Day to exchange gifts and spend the day with good food and good company.

Regulus had already told me he wished to sneak away as soon as we'd dined and I was happy to help him when he made his excuses to Walburga.

Unfortunately, shortly after he left, Mother's elf interrupted with the Evening Prophet. The piteous creature was fairly trembling in fear to give it to us. Not an unfounded concern, sad to say; no sooner had Lucius and Bella read the headline than they set off straight for the Ministry.

Between Regulus' early departure and Bella and Lucius rushing off, I had quite a time making apologies and the evening soon concluded. At least I got to hold Rigel for about half an hour. He's such a darling little thing.

I'm sure the Ministry will have a response to this incendiary article before morning, but as for me, I do not expect to see my husband until he has discovered who is responsible (and made them pay handsomely for their mischief)!

Comments

[alt_regulus]

No end in sight here, I'm afraid, cousin. Progress, but no resolution. I don't imagine Lucius has had a chance to keep you apprised.

Sorry to have put you to the trouble with Mother when it was all for naught. It was good of you, though.

[alt_regulus]

I must thank you for your Christmas present, cousin. It's proved endlessly useful over the past several days. I believe your card suggested that the charm could change it to a blade, a two-tined fork, a two-pronged pincer, a three-pronged grasping tool with an opposable digit, or a pen/cigarette holder as necessity and imagination might command, but Our Lord has found much greater potential in your spell and considerably more function in my hook than you or I could have imagined.

It seems I'm to have several hours' respite now, perhaps until morning but perhaps not. Would you mind terribly if I came there?

[alt_narcissa]

Yes, of course, come if you prefer. Are you well?

Perhaps you can tell me if you've heard or seen anything of my husband. I received only the briefest of owls from him yesterday that he elected to stay overnight at Buckingham and planned to be in the field all day today.

[alt_regulus]

I saw him briefly this morning, but not since. All I can tell you is that not all of the owls that came in from the field today seem to have brought the desired reports. I've no idea whether Lucius has met with more or less frustration than others.

I'm on my way if you'll open your Floo.

[alt_narcissa]

Why not App

Nevermind, dear, I've sent Heddy to open the grate in the Blue Room.