(no subject)

[alt_narcissa]

There is nothing quite like a ride in pre-dawn when there's a hint of frost in the air. The countryside is pristine, save the hoof-prints of one's horse; the rising sun suddenly hits the dew and a thousand crystals burst into light. The Manor in early morning has a dignity of which I never tire.

But this is the last morning for a while when I shall be able to avail myself of the view. We're opening Kensington this afternoon and shall stay through Our Lord's birthday celebrations at month's end. The autumn festival season does have a way of blurring indiscriminately into the holiday season and already both the WI and the St Mungo's Auxiliary are looking for their gala committees. I've a thought or two but I haven't yet worked out whether they'll serve better for our own Christmas party or for something more philanthropic.

Since we shall be in New London for the better part of 3 weeks, though, have at least decided to take advantage of the proximity to begin (or complete) Christmas shopping, robe design and selection for several upcoming events, redo the private wing at Kensington and of course, manage our social calendar for the season. (And Mr Cooper, yes, please, if you wish to come and fuss over the gardens, next week will do nicely.)

Toshenka, remind me of your next New London foray? If all goes well, we plan to come up for Draco and Harry's Quidditch match in early November but I believe you'll be here before then? Let us know what you've a mood to do and I shall make sure we are free.

Ned, we would be happy to accept your invitation for supper. It would be lovely to spend more time with you and Lana, particularly before the crush of the holidays.

Comments

[alt_antonin]

Milaya,

St M's wants me the last Saturday of every month, so 27th October for the next weekend in New London -- I would take the whole week for certain, but the children are so behind that I shall simply say, I will wait to see what Our Lord's wishes are for the celebrations and then make my plans from there.

Perhaps dinner that Saturday, if there are no events I should not miss? (I desperately need someone to keep my calendar for me.) I will place myself in your capable hands as to where we should dine.

Hoping your weekend is peaceful,
T

Private Message to Antonin Nikolaevich

[alt_narcissa]

Supper ought to do nicely. Know that Lucius has been keen to get your opinion of the improvements to the Ouroboros since your last visit but if last month was any indication, I suspect a quiet evening would be more to your taste.

Unless you care to go out for a bit of entertainment? Athena's singing that night and Lucius has refused to sit through it. We could leave him to his own devices and whisper to each other all the latest news.

Re: Private Message to Antonin Nikolaevich

[alt_antonin]

Milaya miya,

You know my fondness for choral work, whether operatic or unaccompanied. As long as the performance isn't one of the Merlin Cycle, which I have vowed never to sit through again. (What is it about that second aria that attracts sopranos with more volume than talent? It has entirely soured me on the whole cycle no matter how well rendered it is.)

Barring calamity, I would be delighted to escort you.

Hoping I have not just jinxed us by mentioning calamity,
T

[alt_crouch_jr]

London has its own rewards. Certain that Kensington will charm you once you're there.

Should have you tell me what to do with Marlborough after you finish your apartments at K. So much space wasted. I use three of its rooms. Four, if you count the sparring floor in the mews. And will see even less of the place in the season ahead. Thank you for the reminder. 'The crush of the holidays.' Yes.

Have been taking inspiration from Toshenka's demonstration. Doubling my time in training. Allowing Bellatrix to find and root out the weaknesses. Feel invigorated. Eager for action. (Of whatever sort you desire, Toshenka. Say when.)

[alt_antonin]

Darling, if you mean to challenge me, you'd wipe the floor with me without even breaking a sweat -- I'm still recovering, a week later! Perhaps after Christmas.

Let me see what I'll be up to next month with the children, though, and I may press you into service for demonstration. And if you've any ideas of your own, do let me know.

Decrepitly,
T

[alt_crouch_jr]

Not taken in by your excuses, Toshenka. But do put me off until you feel entirely ready. Meantime, I will work the harder so I will not disappoint.

As ever.
B

[alt_narcissa]

Truly, it's a shame that Marlborough has so much to offer and no one to grace it on a regular basis. I'd be pleased to give it an assessing eye. But I feel the same about Kensington, since it is so large for just the few of us who generally stay. It's only that the gardens are so lovely and the halls are perfect for the extensive entertaining that makes it worth maintaining. Though it is convenient to have a residence in town for those times when travel back and forth to the Manor is simply too much to ask.

I'm glad to hear you have been well and throwing yourself into healthy exertion. For myself, I have always maintained that there are no short-cuts to keeping one's vigour in full bloom, nor any wonder-cures to stem the inevitable (if maddening) effect of age, save the disciplines of diet and exercise. And even then it seems, no one is immune.

[alt_crouch_jr]

That's it. Living in town is practical. Keeping up a tremendous pile of brick, marble, paint and parquet is not. For me, at least, lack-grace that I am.

You, however, are grace personified. I know no one less touched by time than you, Narcissa. Feel sure all the wizards of Our Lord's realm agree. And all the witches envy it.

[alt_narcissa]

Well, your gift for flattery is in no need of exercise! But there are a number of witches who, I am sure, could attest to exactly how time is taking its toll.

Nonetheless, dear, I do appreciate the sentiment.

[alt_crouch_jr]

On them, perhaps.

I'll think of other ways to prove my point if you continue to doubt.