(no subject)

[alt_lucius]

Instructed Crispin to reach Cumulus Cuthbert for a word about a broom for young Marvolo and to confirm tea at Hogwarts on Wednesday, then headed to the Ministry for a status report on certain matters.

Dawlish is a feeble-minded dolt. At my urging, Scrimgeour has reassigned the investigation to Bella, who was eager to start questioning the Gringotts' staff herself. Capable hands at last!

There was some unpleasant business in one of the camps. Two Muggles thought to hide their Mudblood brat in an attempt to keep her being placed per the State's instructions. Sent Ari and Gaude to remove the obstacles ... and the spawn.

Also returned regrets to Nolan. Perhaps next year when my term at Obscurus comes up again, I shall be able to take on another interest.

Crispin reached Cuthbert around 11:00, happy to oblige, of course, so Harry's broom should be along well before his first Quidditch practice. Had luncheon with Narcissa. Discussed Draco's misguided notion than because the Lord Protector's son has been allowed a broom as a consequence of joining the team, he should also be allowed one. I suppose it's natural for him to assume they will be given equal privilege, but the reality of course is that there are some advantages that are not his to command. Luckily, he seemed to understand fairly quickly that he shall have to wait the customary year before broom or Quidditch are in his cards. Equally pleased that Narcissa concurs, quite sensibly.

Still no word of Regulus, though he promised Narcissa he would come soon. However, we did receive a report that none other than the blood traitor, Dumbledore, had been sighted in Devon. Summoned Mulciber, Goyle, and young Crouch to run the rumour to ground.

False report, more's the pity. Had Mulciber bring the half-blood informant in for further questioning.

Crispin has added the Quidditch schedule to my agenda. Oh, and Narcissa has decided to accompany me on Wednesday.

Comments

[alt_narcissa]

Until he reappeared last week, no one had heard even a whisper of Regulus for over a decade. To him soon could mean months.

[alt_lucius]

That's what concerns me, dearest. Our Lord may not still be in the same forgiving frame of mind should your cousin delay unnecessarily.

You must see if you can coax him. He is always more inclined to listen to you above any other.

[alt_narcissa]

A point well made, my darling. It would be unfortunate if Reg missed his opportunity to reconcile with our Lord Protector.

I will do my very best to persuade him.

[alt_bellatrix]

Thank our Lord that your urging had such an effect, Lucius. I do so hate to be patient in the face of such incompetence.

[alt_lucius]

On that we most certainly agree, Bella.

And I think your patience by far less taxed of late than our Lord's. I'm merely grateful that under your direction, we are sure to see some results sooner rather than never.

[alt_bellatrix]

If only veritaserum and legilimency could be forced upon those who are suspect.

Not forced upon the goblins--not even I am that rash. But something must be done to quell certain rumblings that have caught my ears. And I know that they've caught His ears, as well.

All in good time. But again, how I hate to be patient. Yet if He is, then so am I.

[alt_lucius]

I've a meeting with the Minister and the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot on ... blast, can't recall when. Next week, I think. Check with Crispin. If your agenda permits, I'd be delighted if you sat in with us to discuss ramping up our efforts to ensure that any other incidents such as this morning's continue to decline.

[alt_bellatrix]

I confess I am not much good at meetings.

But anything for a ramping of efforts.

[alt_lucius]

You needn't come if you don't wish to do. Though I assure you Scrimgeour shall hardly be a strong advocate for application of forced confessions, despite the obvious need to act swiftly to protect the realm from these malcontents.

Unfortunately, meetings become more difficult to escape the higher one climbs. It is still your ambition to control the Aurors and the department for MLE?

[alt_bellatrix]

You've known me long enough to know just what my ambitions are.

[alt_harry]

Thank you for the BROOM Mr Malfoy!!!

[alt_lucius]

Use it well, Harry.

[alt_lucius]

Indeed, I do. But there are children reading.