Private Message to Aurora Sinistra

[alt_narcissa]

Aurora,

Lucius happened to mention that you'll be in New London for the beginning of holidays. He also - you'll pardon me - commented that you seem considerably frazzled when he last saw you.

It so happens my usual spa appointment is Wednesday. I'd be most pleased if you'd allow me to adjust the reservation for two? Massage, sauna - whatever you like, dear.

Also, might I venture a guess that Amara has you and Razzer on the guest list for at least part of her festivities? I should think that the opportunity to relax and let others see to you would likely do wonders for your tolerance of the event, being seen and so on. And I'm sure, knowing you even a little, that it's business that brings you to New London but please do remember to give yourself time for shopping if you need to pick up anything for spring.

If you let me know by the end of the weekend, I can contact Madam Ardenia to expect you on Wednesday.

Comments

[alt_sinistra]

Narcissa -

You're most generous to think of me.

I'd hoped that it did not show quite so clearly, but yes, far more frazzled than I'd prefer. This last minute matter of the holiday trips did complicate things.

As to our plans, Raz and I intend to come down to New London tomorrow once the students are gone, and stay through the two weeks.

I do have two full days of YPL meetings on the Monday and Tuesday, and I expect them to be rather tedious. By Wednesday, I may not be fit company for anyone, I fear. And of course, there's always the chance of some new urgent need cropping up.

If it would not be too difficult for you, or for Madame Ardenia to accomodate, should something come up, I would be very glad to join you. It's only that I'd hate to upset a plan.

As to the wedding, yes, we're on the list (or rather, Raz was), though we've the Newcastle trip on the Saturday, so certainly don't intend to stay late.

I had thought ahead about something to wear - I've a few things to pick up on Monday, after my meeting, and I believe one of them should suit. (Avoiding the current trend for pastels, as I'm not fond of them, even.) I'm certainly looking forward to seeing what others wear for the occasion.

[alt_narcissa]

Oh, believe me, when one is unfit company is the best time for the spa. And it sounds as if you'll need it even more by the time you have suffered two days of meetings! Honestly, between you and me I sometimes regret agreeing to advise the Sisters in Witchcraft. Though they do try their hardest, poor things.

Well, it's no trouble at all. I shall inform Ardenia that you'll be there as my guest and you may have the full run of the place.

May one ask ... is everything all right? Apart from too long between Christmas and Easter, that is? It does seem that there's a higher amount of, let us say, angst, than one usually expects, particularly for a year with no imminent threat looming over the children. Now, don't think I'm prying, but if you care to get another witch's perspective, particularly on - well, let us say on the family with which you've found yourself embroiled - you can be sure of my discretion, dear.

[alt_sinistra]

Thank you, then. I'm most appreciative, and I'm sure it will be a lovely and restorative day.

Meetings are not my favourite hobby, no. (And these are all the detailed summer planning, so it's rather more complex schedules and arrangements, too.) And there's having to deal with Healer Stint in person for the first time since the St. Mungo's Gala. I've been assured he'll be appropriate, but I'm scarcely looking forward to it.

As to your last - this matter with the YPL investigation did complicate things for me. I'm sure Lucius told you he was quite clear he thought it a waste of time, and I'm very grateful there as well. I know I've been something of a trial to Raz on a number of counts, but I'm sure time and a little rest will help immensely.

If there is something you can help with, though, I will certainly ask.