Lucius S Malfoy

It would seem you were right. As congratulations are in order, permit me to offer mine.

Is there anyone left in charge on your end with an idea of the terms they desire with the ICW? I am in a position where I might ... ease the transition, shall we say. Vouch for Albion's validity. It might speed along the process of reintroducing England to the world.



Your mother -

She will deny it, of course, but when she told me of your news ... the news that her cousin and her sister (and 'the werewolf') perished in the final act of this passion play, specifically, ... she related events with perfectly dry eyes, professed that she cared not a whit for any of the 'old battles,' as she put it, and then became so wracked with grief that she needed assistance to lie down.


So you may imagine that although we are removed from the direct repercussions, we are not immune to them.


I wish you well, my son.

Your

Father

Happy birthday, my son.

We did not ... leave matters as I would have wished, but despite the awkwardness, permit me to tell you that I hope that you are able to celebrate without shadow. I pray you will believe me when I say that I understand, a little, what it must have cost you to stand where you are, without Harry by your side.

I do not invoke his memory lightly, or to torment you, but only to tell you something you might not have expected: I grieve with you. It seems I did care for him more than just in so much as his life affected yours; I find now, and am surprised to learn as you no doubt will be, that I miss him not unlike the way a father might miss a son who has suffered an untimely and grisly death.

So I can imagine how much more difficult it is for you to face the remainder of your days without him. I hope that you are allowing yourself time for the pain to lessen, and that on this day, especially, you choose to remember how well you and he loved one another. When the spectre of his absence strikes you, as it inevitably will, toast his memory, drink to the bond you shared and permit yourself to smile again until the next wave. Forgive the trite cliché but time is, in this instance, the only healer with any physick of worth.

That is probably unwelcome advice for one whose patience with himself or anyone else is in short supply in the best of circumstances. Certainly, it is evident you neither wish nor need comfort from this quarter. Nonetheless I hope you will excuse the impertinence, coming as it does from one who will never abjure the rights of a father to express concern for his son.

My concern for your well-being does not end with your emotional health, either. Let us turn then to more corporeal topics.

Your mother (who is out at present, by the bye) will no doubt decide I have behaved recklessly by writing to you. She would prefer we keep our heads buried in the St Tropez sands until this business is at an end, and believes that the moment my hand appears in the journals, we will be beset by her sister's assassins. I do not think Bella would bother, at this point, when it has been far too long in her estimation since our 'escape' without any offer aid for their cause. It would be a waste of resources to come after us now.

However, from what I have been able to read (in the brief intervals when your mother sees fit to trust me with a journal - no quill, mind you, as if she thinks I am a feeble-minded invalid!), it seems clear that until victory can be definitively claimed by one side or the other, your future is uncertain.

You will protest, I am sure, that your triumph is inexorable and you need no assistance. Just as well, for I cannot offer any - nothing practical, at any rate. Since the terms of our exile preclude direct intercession of the sort that would remit an immediate threat, and since we are half a continent and as good as an entire world away from your home, I shall have to trust to your training and that of your compatriots to save you as you put yourself in the path of danger.

A path which, I am certain, you are taking every opportunity to tread.

There is something I can offer, in the meantime. Consider it quid pro quo for the clemency which your mother and I received, I have no doubt solely due to our familial connexion to at least four of you architects of Albion. I can attempt to secure a similar promise from Antonin, Ari and a few select others of your opponents: That if they prevail, you will be offered exile instead of death. (And naturally, one must exempt your aunt Bellatrix from that list - though she may well want you alive for other reasons. I am aware she has assumed authority in the vacuum, but I suspect her rule is not absolute. There are those who could intercede, or who might at the least, hesitate before engaging you.)

The crux of this bargain will be obvious to you, I am sure. Your enemies are not fools; it would be a ridiculous prospect to agree to spare you if you give them no quarter. Consider, though, the advantage it would give you if they believed you agree. They will be trying not to kill you, while you will be under no such constriction.

This assumes two other facts, as well: That they will not reneg on their promise, if I can secure it; that you are not seeking death, whether consciously or no.

In any event, having written to you openly, I ought not now ignore Antonin, and this gives me a credible reason to write to him. It is up to you whether to use the advantage I will attempt to win.

Have already taken more of your time than I intended. Be well, Draco. Enjoy your day, and all that comes with it.

Always your loving,

Father

With everything that has transpired this week, forgot to mention to you: Rabastan's private service is to-morrow.

Trust you understand.

Would like to meet, however, sometime soon. Much to discuss. May not be able to get away much in the next few days but my diary has been more-or-less cleared for the family crisis.

Say when.

Draco,

We have been in conference for some hours now with Cadmus Mulciber and Theo Nott, Sr. They have quite a tale to tell concerning your relations with that mudblood servant of Harry's.

Son, there is no reason to stay away. You may fear repercussions for having run but if you return immediately, we can sort this out. It is clear that this is a vicious attempt to discredit you for having out-performed Nott's son so roundly in Our Lord's service.

As for the incidents that occurred as you fled, we will of course co-operate with MLE and resolve them. It is no secret that Teddy Nott harassed your friends; it will be no great difficulty to produce witnesses to corroborate that testimony and prove that, however Theo Nott believes himself wronged, his son provoked you and you acted in self-defence.

If there is any truth in their story, it is only that the mudblood clearly has been colluding with a traitor to Our Lord's realm for some time and likely has attempted to ensnare you into her plans. Naturally, it would be shameful to admit any temptation but you would not be the first wizard to find himself so tempted. We know that you could never have committed any such depraved acts as Nott and Mulciber have concocted. Come back, Draco, and set the record straight.

The longer you stay away, the more guilty you appear to be. We know you may be frightened but please, trust your Mother and Father, who only want what is best for you and who will do everything in their power to protect your life and clear your good name.

Do not let your uncle's sacrifice on your behalf go in vain. Come home, now, and we will settle this matter together.

Father and Mother

My thanks for the many returns of the day. For those who have asked: No, no special plans. Perhaps a quiet supper with friends, as has been my wont for the past several years. Particularly as there is no State event pre-occupying one's attention; they are welcome, of course, with the pomp and splendour they provide, but one also appreciates the opportunity to celebrate only with one's nearest from time to time.

However, was reminded by the various cards and tokens that it has been some time since posting. Pray think no nefarious cause in that: All has proceeded at a customary pace. One's business of late has been too sensitive for public consumption but all is well as can be expected. If my journal has been more a source of reading material than a mouthpiece recently, it is only that there has been nothing of interest to report.


By contrast, the efforts of Our Lord's young novices have continued to offer both insight and diversion. Received quite a number of compliments on my son's performance, following the last Hogsmeade week-end, in which Ned, Crispin and others were able to meet with their candidate choices. Would that any credit were mine; he is wholly his own man, by this time. Still, one cannot help be proud to hear so well of one's offspring. That he has already distinguished himself in pursuit of Our Lord's own recognition is worth more than any birthday present.


Speaking of presents, though: Amanda, received your latest gift and news with amusement. While we should like nothing better than to meet our new nephew, it is unlikely we shall find the time to arrange a visit before next Christmas. Perhaps not even then. Pleased to inform, however, that as the Ministry's next great advance completes itself, under the watchful eye of Our Lord, the ability to travel safely may well be improved. Tell Mother she ought to look after herself better, as well: a broken hip may be easily mended, but it is still no joke at her age.


Oh, and Miss Parkinson: I've time for tea prior to to-morrow's Governor's meeting, if you would like to join me. We can discuss your own place among the standings and follow-up on other matters concerning your future.

Preparation for Freedom Day has consumed most of the week and anticipate will dominate next week's agenda as well.

The celebrations this year ought to call to mind those of the Protectorate's fifth anniversary, including a showcase of concerts in the Protector's Park and a series of demonstrations of skill - under controlled conditions only - highlighting the accomplishments of Our Lord's glorious realm. A final concert on the eve of the 31^st will culminate in Our Lord's presentation to the winners of an essay contest from the village schools, and of course the traditional fireworks.

Once those duties have been discharged, our private holiday arrangements have also been made and we shall proceed for a much-needed rest of our own, before Draco and Harry leave for their CCF programme in August.

Summer is, as always, a somewhat slower time with so many taking holidays but we can take comfort in the knowledge that the newest Director of Protectorate Affairs recognises no such boundary: The necessary business of the nation takes precedence over all other considerations for him!

Dearest Sister,

Was quite pleased to receive your letter of last week; forgive the delay in answering but no matter the day or time set aside this week to reply, some other, more pressing business intruded.

To begin, then: Glad you and Étienne enjoyed your holiday in Morocco. The ability to travel the world is one luxury we quite look forward to indulging again. But as you correctly point out, those hopes have taken a step backward recently.

Not sure exactly what you expect of me, however. Our diplomatic endeavours do not seem to have had much result. And if your husband's aspirations, as you report, do not seem to lie in politics to the extent you believed before marrying, then, my dear, it would seem it is you who must take a choice. You may either attempt to change his leanings and shape his ambitions back in the direction you think more advantageous to you both or you must reconcile yourself to his revised plan.

Given the news you had to share, you do have at least one more reason to press for an improvement to your circumstances and his ability to support your growing family.

(About that, at least, Narcissa and I could not be happier for you! Though Narcissa warns that June and July are a miserable time for the final months (though not as bad as August). And it's just as well that your husband's obligations to Beauxbatons will be lower in the summertime, so that you may both become accustomed to the inevitable changes that will come.)

In any event, believe when we all spoke last year, Étienne considered that the path to political success led through the Headmaster's post. Surely it would follow that he has no immediate wish to abandon the school for more a more direct approach? Am disappointed that he did not use his experiences here in England to better effect, in arguing for the law to change. But not sure how my 'speaking to him' would exhort him to the sort of action you seem to wish he would undertake. If anything, the thought of his child should have led him to conclude the immediate need for the assertion of those same rights which he saw in action here.

Nonetheless, it is probable that in order to achieve true results, more negotiation is needed. Shall speak to Pontner about additional effort with the French delegation. Your husband's student has fully integrated to English life but perhaps his account is still worth some credit with the French Parliament.


For our part, we are all well. Draco is still near the top of his class (not as high as I would like but certainly at a respectable level) and continues to receive glowing reports from all his professors. He has loaded his timetable with extra-curricular pursuits, in addition to his Prefecture and the YPL responsibilities, but wisely has opted for a small, supporting rôle in an upcoming theatrical performance rather than a leading one. (Have made it clear that if his marks slip he must choose to withdraw, since I doubt he wishes to drop Quidditch, especially as Harry has assumed the Captaincy.)

Narcissa, as ever, dazzles the entire country with her perfection. Her editor approached me before the holidays with a request for a new venture. Sponsored by Witch Weekly, she is to design a new line of foundations which will be sold to witches in intimate trunk shows in the home. She is delighted, particularly as it provides the benefits of her knowledge of fashion and attraction without requiring the exhaustive regimen of an active model. She plans to integrate a number of active-wear components for the witch who is, as she puts it, 'in need of maintenance but unwilling to sacrifice style.' Whatever that means. At any rate, she is pleased.

You'll be amused to know she decided it's high time I sat for a new portrait for the gallery. No idea when one shall find the time.

Oh, and yes: Antonin Nikolaevich has been as much like his old self as you remember. Perhaps moreso! Shall pass on to him your fondest remembrances. You could write him yourself, if you are not too shy. He remembers you and would be happy to hear from you - and no doubt would pass on an endless array of questions to compare teaching methods with those of his colleagues on the continent! (Can only wish that it were not injury which necessitated his return to British soil - for he is even more suited to teaching than he was to diplomacy, and that, my dear, is saying quite a lot.)


You mentioned that Mother has been talking of spending time in Vienna. Knowing her, there's some ulterior motive. What is it, has she said? (Suspect it's her fascination with Amelie Imberkopf's work on harmonic magic. Or has she some other reason for sudden wanderlust?) Believe you are correct and that, whatever her plans, she shall return when the time comes to welcome her new grandchild.

Well. At least you may say without fear that you shall never want for anything, regardless of whether Étienne decides to take an active interest in the political arena or remains content to shepherd young minds into the world. (Given the stabilising influence teaching seems to have had on the Razzer, the quiet life of a professor may not be so horrible a prospect - even if it is not what you bargained for long-term.) You know you have but to ask it and, if it is in my power, it shall be done.

Cannot think we shall be able to join you but if it is possible, shall endeavour. (Another item for Pontner to consider!) Meanwhile, warm regards to all, provided that you keep for yourself a large portion of affection from,

Your loving Brother,

Lucius

Am fine.

More later.

Going to sleep.

Son,

No need to reply unless you feel like it. Am giving someone a lesson in patience.

However, occurred to me that we have not discussed your mother's birthday. You may be sure that this year's anniversary is giving her more difficulty than she would care to admit. More than her usual reluctance, that is. Hope whatever you have been considering is discreet.

Believe that I have found the solution on my part, though timing is, always, an issue. Your upcoming match is 3^rd November, which is just possible on the heels of Our Lord's birthday celebrations but perilously close to Bonfire Night, which the last few years has been tumultuous.

Have decided, therefore, that the following week-end we shall visit Castle Rushen on the Isle of Man. Telling you mainly because my goal shall be to minimise our distraction on the trip, to the point of forgoing journal communication (if at all possible, limiting it to no more than an hour a day or so if not possible to leave it aside altogether).

That by itself is hardly remarkable as we have tended to take time alone, if not at her birthday or mine, then certainly on our anniversary. Expect she will decide I am being unoriginal, which is part of the plan. For the secluded week-end is merely the backdrop to present her with her real gift, which is a 20-ft brigantine to sail us back to Lancaster, where she'll winter (unless your mother wishes to sail her elsewhere). But confess that I have been unable to hit upon the right name for the vessel. Had thought of the Amaryllis, the Cassiopeia, even the Regulus but of course that is not a name to be used lightly. Suppose the best option is to leave her unchristened and let your mother do the honours.


On another topic entirely, you have not heard any rumblings of students taking it into their heads to attempt anything like Razzer's and Antosha's display on Saturday? Do discourage it; you know as well as anyone how dangerous it could be without the proper precautions.

Well. It's been long enough now to answer her. Except to say that I hope you are otherwise well and should you wish to discuss any topic at all, know that I am, as always, at your service.

Forgive the intrusion from your affectionate

Father

Barty, did you receive an owl from Razzer's intended this after-noon? Mine indicates she sent you a similar note.

If it signifies what I believe it signifies, we ought to meet. Name place and time.

Narcissa, do not wish you to fret: Draco is still un-involved, if Sinistra's message is accurate. Given what he told us on his return from the CCF, his rôle thus far has been as a conduit more than an end in itself. Do not think he is in any real danger. However, want to see Barty's analysis of this latest before sharing its contents with you, dearest. Just to be sure.