Private Message to Razzer and Lucius

[alt_narcissa]

I had a rather interesting conversation with Amanda today. Razzer, do you know of any reasons Hydra might wish to accompany the Beauxbatons and Durmstrang exchange students on several of their stops over the holidays?

According to Amanda, she sent her an owl asking to meet in Hogsmeade this last trip and asked Amanda whether any of the Hogwarts students would be invited along. Well, you know how pathetic Hydra can make herself when she's a mind to wheedle something. Amanda spoke to Étienne, who said he might be willing to arrange to chaperon but only if it were all right with the family - and with the other delegation.

Lucius? It shan't upset the cauldron if she were to come to a few of the events, perhaps the museums or some of the attractions in New London? I'm not sure what's on the agenda that might tempt her.

Of course, if it's going to stir up a billywig nest, then she may simply be told it's not feasible. Or Razzer, if you think it's unwise, then I can convey that to Amanda as well.

Comments

[alt_rabastan]

Hm. Well, I imagine she might be hoping to avoid or put off any time spent at home, seeing as the state of my brother's marriage is less than peaceful- now more than ever.

It's hard to say how Bella would react (isn't it always?). Though off hand it does seem like the sort of hospitable act that she would associate with you, Narcissa. And ever since Bella's got it in her head that Hydra is suited more to your way of life than hers...well, she might approve?

Don't quote me on that, though.

[alt_narcissa]

Poor Roddy. I can only imagine why he's finding it difficult of late. But if Hydra wishes to avoid St James' Palace or Le'Strange Hill, surely she may do so without traipsing about the realm?

Do you really think this is an example of Hydra attempting to emulate my methods? Or that Bella still thinks Hydra ought to model herself after me? If so, then doesn't it make more sense for Hydra to spend time at the Manor over holidays, and not with foreign boys and girls?

[alt_rabastan]

Perhaps she wants to "traipse," as well. She doesn't get many opportunities to make her own choices, and if she spoke to Amanda about this of her own accord then maybe she ought to be encouraged, if only so that she continues to assert herself to people other than you or me. Even if it is in that rather pathetic fashion of hers...

But then, if you are interested in having her for the hols, then I'm sure you've a perfect right to her. She'd enjoy that a great deal, I'm sure.

Private Message to Rabastan

[alt_narcissa]

I'm sure she would enjoy it as would I, Razzer, but the point is that is not what she asked permission to do. And as usual, she asked someone other than her mother.

I find it intriguing that of all things she might spend her holiday doing, she chooses to go where the visiting students are going. She hasn't formed an attachment to someone in their ranks, has she? That young man from the Ball?

Does Rod know?

Re: Private Message to Rabastan

[alt_rabastan]

Mr Finch-Fletchley, you mean? They are still friendly since the Ball- actually, Hydra told me a while back that Bella encouraged her to maintain the connection. Something about it making Harry take more notice of her, or some such twaddle.

Rod wouldn't be pleased, and that's putting it bluntly. Which would explain why she's avoided involving her parents in this, eh? I suppose it well could be that she'd like accompany her new friend as he tours the Protectorate...

I happen to know that Roddy's taken steps to ensure that all of Hydra's interactions with boys remain, shall we say, innocent to the lily-white degree. So if there is an attachment, with Mr Finch-Fletchley or anyone else, at least there's little risk of it going beyond companionship.

Dunno if that means she ought to be allowed to go or not, though.

Re: Private Message to Rabastan

[alt_narcissa]

Let me just see if I have this straight, Rabastan:

My sister tells Hydra to use this Finch-Fletchley boy to spark Harry's jealousy. But your brother has charmed our niece to prevent any untoward contact?

Is that what you're telling me?

I am not sure which of them to throttle first, to be honest.

You do realise that chastity charms are not infallible? And do nothing to protect the subject from emotional attachment.

Oh, those two. I am relieved I did not see this before morning or I might not have got a wink's sleep.

Let us hope that they both of them show more sense when Rigel grows old enough to give them any worry.

[alt_lucius]

It could introduce a wrinkle - it depends on which activities are more easily expanded to include someone outside the appointed complement of students. Did my sister say which events Hydra had in mind?

Otherwise, I agree with Razzer: Regardless of the reason, it is gratifying to see her taking some initiative in her own future, even if only on a limited scale.

[alt_narcissa]

There's a rumour that the students are to be shown a camp, Lucius. Hydra mentioned that specifically (I rather think Amanda was hoping we would decide that it's too indecent for Hydra to see).

Beyond that, she did not know much about the itinerary to give specifics. Amanda thought perhaps the field trip to Tintagel and the proposed tours of New London would be appropriate. She also proposed including her with the Bath portion - apparently there's some discussion of whether any of the Combined Cadet Force would be invited for that (or any of the museum tours).

Surely they're not being taken to a camp, though? How could one guarantee their safety?

[alt_lucius]

Yes. It was not on the original plan for their tour but it was a specific request and so the Ministry have devised a ... sample, if you will, suitable for them to see.

In fact, if this is where Hydra's interest lies, I believe it may be helpful to her education. Surely your sister would not object, nor Rod, if it comes to that.

As to the other events, I believe there shall be some provision for the top students to receive special privileges and commune with the visitors at points throughout the holiday.

I shall discuss it at the Governors' meeting this evening, shall I? Then we may tell Amanda and Émile which activities were selected for general participation and which ones we may be able to except for Hydra's direct involvement.