Private Message to Barty Crouch, Jr.

[alt_narcissa]

Did you sleep at all last night?

I hope one of us could do.

Now, don't fuss. I've talked to Ardenia and she's going to send you her very best. His name's Gaheris Gaffert and you're not to torment him; he's coming tomorrow to help you and he'll return on Saturday as well to make sure the final touches are right. Ardenia assures me he's discreet and more to the point, bearable. So bear it. I've asked Ned to make sure your calendar is clear tomorrow afternoon.

It's ... a lot to take in, Barty. It's a lot for you to have been through, as well.

Shall you talk to Mafalda about taking some time or must I?

Comments

[alt_crouch_jr]

Yes. All right re. Gaffert.

You're that worried I'd come to your award ceremony looking unsuitable? I do think I'm capable of dressing myself, but it's not worth fighting over.

You'll be glad to know I approved what Ned's written for the Prophet re. father. He nixed my suggestion that it close with 'No memorials, no condolences per request of survivor. Violators will be summarily executed.'

[alt_narcissa]

You're underestimating what he's there to do, Barty. It's not the robes I'm worried about.

It's commentary like that. Let him relax you. You're wound tighter than Foucault's pocketwatch. Small wonder, I know, but -

Besides, it's not my award ceremony. It's Our Lord's.

You see? Darling, you don't even know which way you're pointed at present. And I can't talk to

Well. I can't stand the thought you might 'summarily execute' someone for blinking the wrong way at you. It's beyond endearing right round into disturbing.

You're going to be on a stage whether you like it or not. Let's focus on getting through it with the people none the wiser, yes?

[alt_crouch_jr]

So. Gaffert's the master chef. And I'm the boar's head that needs dressing before it's paraded around the hall.

Fine. Yes. He may do whatever's needed.

And I will play my part.

I know a thing or two about acting, you know. And have had considerable practice.

[alt_narcissa]

If the analogy helps you to submit, dear.

And if acting is what you need to do, then yes.

But not with me, please. It's unbelievably wearying. And worrisome.

[alt_crouch_jr]

Not with you.

You didn't think yesterday was from a script, did you?

If it were, at least I'd know who to sack for writing such bloody nonsense.

Merlin, Reg would have loved my family's story. If only it had been written by some sixteenth-century Spaniard.

I am going to have to see Bale, you realise, but I'm waiting until Our Lord's ceremony is over before I allow myself that. Another homicide to my credit before Saturday might be difficult to tidy up.

Not acting. See?