A Short Respite

[alt_lucius]

Hard to imagine that a week without Draco at home could be less relaxing. I do not think there has been a single day without some meeting, appointment or errand.

Narcissa, naturally, has been dividing her time between our home and Bella's, and has offered to assist the new parents in reviewing the growing collection of gifts at St James Palace, as well as help plan the naming ceremony. She has, for the most part, been on hand to see to Hydra and the household whenever Druella has not been available. All to the good, but her absence does little to pull one away from long hours spent on the betterment of Our Lord's realm.


Meanwhile, as the Prophet has already reported, there is the matter of Highslip, the undesirable who managed to trick his way into our party in France. (I'll repeat, Selwyn, that I shall be interested to see your reports on the vetting process and how he could have accomplished such a deception.) We have convened a series of hearings regarding the culpability of certain of his relatives and associates. It was recently decided that, to their great relief I am sure, Highslip's parents were not aware of his intentions, nor were they involved in corrupting his commitment to the Protectorate. At least one of his friends was not so lucky.


Speaking of luck, I had Crispin make an appointment for me with Pearson, to discuss the situation regarding Narcissa's niece. Lucky for her that her aunt sees fit to forgive her indiscretions - and to prevail upon me to correct the overzealous application of punishment in her case. (And no, it brings no satisfaction that it is her niece, and not mine, who finds herself in need of intervention this time. I would much rather both of them find it possible to span six months or more together without finding a modicum of trouble!) However in this case, it is not entirely Nymphadora's fault. As I suspected, others besides Pearson had a hand in the severity of her suspension - for what motives, I can only guess. Nonetheless, Pearson's information necessitated another interview, this time with one who had the power to call off the spurious investigation into her unfortunate circumstances. Am confident that the aspersions leveled against her will soon dissipate and she will be allowed to return to employment under certain reasonable restrictions.


Between this errand, which I regret to say took considerably longer than I had anticipated, the other usual occupations (Ministry, various Boards and business obligations), the ongoing repercussions of the successful aspects of the diplomatic mission and of course, personal demands (first of the month accounting, of course, and certain duties I have been honoured to perform for Our Lord of late), one has almost had no time to consider the lack of time.


This afternoon we welcomed Draco home again - however, in something of a mood. I gather that while the camping adventure was rewarding, he rather missed playing a central role in the highlight of the trip - that being, needless to say, the discovery of the trove of contraband late yesterday. (That particular detail will be the object of much scrutiny on behalf of the Ministry, I can assure you!) And as I feared, he did not spend nearly as much time with Harry as he hoped. Somewhat concerned as well by this: The boys have never gone for so long without reconciling. Not sure what this reticence of Harry's portends, either. Will make a point to ask after his health when next at Buckingham, in case there is any basis for the lad's disposition. Have a mind to better acquaint Draco with the responsibilities awaiting him as he reaches majority. If nothing else, the experience may serve to provide him with purpose through the final weeks of the summer. Assuming he has completed all his homework assignments from the end of last term, that is.

At any rate, the occasion of his return at least prompted Narcissa to leave Bella and Rodolphus for a few days and, apart from tea with Ari to-morrow, I find myself with a short break as well. Just as well, for I have to go to Hogwarts on Wednesday and there are a raft of meetings that must be attended prior to the week-end.

Comments

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[alt_arthur]

I never thought I'd see the day when I'd be grateful for Lucius Malfoy's help, but if he can get the blokes at Internal Affairs to call the crups off Nymphadora Tonks, that would be a bloody good thing.

Though I'd rather be hexed than ever admit it to him.

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[alt_arthur]

Highslip. That's the defector you met, Sirius, undoubtedly. I've not heard yet the identity of the friend blamed for his 'corruption.' Perhaps Bill can find out.

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[alt_sirius]

Yes, that's him. Made quite a splash here, giving interviews about what's 'really going on' inside the 'magic curtain,' as they're calling the wards. That all ended a week ago, though. I get the impression that the French ministry doesn't want to jeopardise its trade relations, so they've shut him up. Payoff, is my bet. Still, he got away, and that counts for something. I've been trying to think of a safe way to approach the bloke. I'd love to find out what he knows about operations and the foreign policy meetings Malfoy had, but if the French government is keeping tabs, and if they're trying to play both sides (sympathetic to the Protectorate but defending the rights of Muggleborns in France, that is), it could be a dangerous situation to walk into - even a trap.

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[alt_frank]

good news is good news. even if it comes from a wanker.

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[alt_sirius]

Frank's right, Arthur: don't underestimate the value of someone who can be manipulated into doing what you want, just because he thinks there moght be something in it for him.

Especially if it also keeps your name clear. Malfoy's an arse, but sometimes a useful one.