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Private Message to M Grosbeak
Aug. 14th, 2015 08:02 amYou're late. Expect this means you've been waylaid by Phoenixes, savaged, and left in a rubbish tip to die miserably.
I expect you're already deep in preparations for tomorrow's reception at the Palace of Westminster.
Just wanted to be sure you understand we'll need everything in place a full hour ahead so we can give the security detail time to confirm the safety of everything you've provided.
I'm sure you understand why that's necessary, and that it's a formality in your case, but there can be no exceptions at this point.
Just wanted to be sure you understand we'll need everything in place a full hour ahead so we can give the security detail time to confirm the safety of everything you've provided.
I'm sure you understand why that's necessary, and that it's a formality in your case, but there can be no exceptions at this point.
Reminder
All Report. 5PM.
Agenda:
Buckingham Report: Travers
Phoenix Detail: Braithewaite
New London infrastructure updates; transport concerns: Stone
Protectorate Defense: Trammel
Press Management: Willett
Wards and Borders: Clark
International: Ekster
Ireland: Ravage, reporting for Singh
All Report. 5PM.
Agenda:
Buckingham Report: Travers
Phoenix Detail: Braithewaite
New London infrastructure updates; transport concerns: Stone
Protectorate Defense: Trammel
Press Management: Willett
Wards and Borders: Clark
International: Ekster
Ireland: Ravage, reporting for Singh
Private Message to R Lestrange
Aug. 7th, 2015 11:04 pmWe're tracking all the anomalies, and they keep being reported. The clock tower at the Palace of Westminster, swaying violently, like a sapling in a storm. The central section of Westminster bridge, fallen into the Thames. The Serpentine, iced over. The Monument, toppled. Cleopatra's needle, crumbled.
The Ravens vanished from the Tower precinct, only to reappear a half hour later out in the moat, ruffled, but apparently none the worse for the experience. Toads emerged by the thousands from the bathing ponds at Hampstead. Swarms of mayflies suddenly filled the Opera House.
So many reports of ghosts shrieking and banshees caterwauling, of werewolves turning out of cycle and creatures rampaging, of bats and owls (and other things) gone mad and attacking anything alive and in range.
I hate feeling that we've been taken by surprise again, and that all we can do is respond to calamity after calamity of their designing. We could so desperately use the extra forces we'll acquire once Bella's mandatory service regime is under way.
And the Floos have gone off again, and Portkeys are malfunctioning, so I'm stuck here at Buckingham. But, honestly, with all that's happening, it's as well. Only, don't expect me, love.
I'll be fine.
The Ravens vanished from the Tower precinct, only to reappear a half hour later out in the moat, ruffled, but apparently none the worse for the experience. Toads emerged by the thousands from the bathing ponds at Hampstead. Swarms of mayflies suddenly filled the Opera House.
So many reports of ghosts shrieking and banshees caterwauling, of werewolves turning out of cycle and creatures rampaging, of bats and owls (and other things) gone mad and attacking anything alive and in range.
I hate feeling that we've been taken by surprise again, and that all we can do is respond to calamity after calamity of their designing. We could so desperately use the extra forces we'll acquire once Bella's mandatory service regime is under way.
And the Floos have gone off again, and Portkeys are malfunctioning, so I'm stuck here at Buckingham. But, honestly, with all that's happening, it's as well. Only, don't expect me, love.
I'll be fine.
Private Message to Rod
Aug. 4th, 2015 10:41 pmBellatrix told me you lobbied her to give me this chance. You wonderful, wonderful man!
Mind you, it's been a completely mad day.
There've been more killings. Two more: Josiah Peakes. He was head of Hogwarts' Board.
And Mariposa Poddington. I admit I'm shocked about that. What could he have had against her? I mean, she was Narcissa Malfoy's assistant at Witch Weekly for years. I hope Braithewaite can suss out a motive there, because I can't imagine.
But then that's not my brief at the moment, is it? I've just got to coordinate and make assignments and keep everything moving.
It's really thrilling, Rod. I promise I won't disappoint you. Or Bella.
Mind you, it's been a completely mad day.
There've been more killings. Two more: Josiah Peakes. He was head of Hogwarts' Board.
And Mariposa Poddington. I admit I'm shocked about that. What could he have had against her? I mean, she was Narcissa Malfoy's assistant at Witch Weekly for years. I hope Braithewaite can suss out a motive there, because I can't imagine.
But then that's not my brief at the moment, is it? I've just got to coordinate and make assignments and keep everything moving.
It's really thrilling, Rod. I promise I won't disappoint you. Or Bella.
I'm just in shock. I can't believe it.
Turn on the wireless if you haven't been listening. They're saying Athena Belby's been found dead. Her elf reported it. Athena!
Reethi, do you remember when we saw her sing Isolde? Our first year in training? That may have been the best performance I've ever witnessed. And she was always marvellous. Not sure I'll be able to keep my Opera seats after this. I mean to say, they haven't got another soprano worth listening to, let alone one able to step into Athena's roles.
You've heard about the Greengrasses and Clarriker? They said Clarriker's son was killed, too.
Ugh. I hate being stuck here. Alright, it's not as if L'Estrange Hill is Azkaban, but not being able to leave makes me itchy. And on top of that I'm huge. All of a sudden, I've gone from blossoming to bulging. I was fine yesterday, but today I can't move, I'm so tired. And I have to run and have a pee every other minute!
Only, if someone came here and got in through the wards? (I know, I know, it's not likely, and Rod would be offended if he knew I'm worried, but you try being a dirty great pregnant lump, and see if you don't think about how you'd be completely helpless if someone wanted to...)
I wish he'd get home.
Sorry, I know. Only, it's been all day. And all I've got are these wretched reports full of data that needs collating and tabulating.
When people out there are being murderedand having their hearts
Oh. Sarah, I meant to say. I heard the show went off beautifully. Congratulations on all the good press. Did you bribe Ptolemy to lean on Cuffe? Or bribe Cuffe directly? Seriously, though. Everyone thinks you're a marvel.
Reethi. I hope you're keeping well over in Ireland. Write me with clever stories about the ridiculous people there. I could use a laugh!
Turn on the wireless if you haven't been listening. They're saying Athena Belby's been found dead. Her elf reported it. Athena!
Reethi, do you remember when we saw her sing Isolde? Our first year in training? That may have been the best performance I've ever witnessed. And she was always marvellous. Not sure I'll be able to keep my Opera seats after this. I mean to say, they haven't got another soprano worth listening to, let alone one able to step into Athena's roles.
You've heard about the Greengrasses and Clarriker? They said Clarriker's son was killed, too.
Ugh. I hate being stuck here. Alright, it's not as if L'Estrange Hill is Azkaban, but not being able to leave makes me itchy. And on top of that I'm huge. All of a sudden, I've gone from blossoming to bulging. I was fine yesterday, but today I can't move, I'm so tired. And I have to run and have a pee every other minute!
Only, if someone came here and got in through the wards? (I know, I know, it's not likely, and Rod would be offended if he knew I'm worried, but you try being a dirty great pregnant lump, and see if you don't think about how you'd be completely helpless if someone wanted to...)
I wish he'd get home.
Sorry, I know. Only, it's been all day. And all I've got are these wretched reports full of data that needs collating and tabulating.
When people out there are being murdered
Oh. Sarah, I meant to say. I heard the show went off beautifully. Congratulations on all the good press. Did you bribe Ptolemy to lean on Cuffe? Or bribe Cuffe directly? Seriously, though. Everyone thinks you're a marvel.
Reethi. I hope you're keeping well over in Ireland. Write me with clever stories about the ridiculous people there. I could use a laugh!
Papa.
I don't want to worry you, but it's important that you increase security at home and for Abueloberto and Abuelita. At the store, as well.And you have to Avoid the streets. Use the Floo or Apparate direct to your office. Don't spend so much time walking the departments, please. People know you do that. And, please, Papa: be sure to have your security people with you. Full detail. That's what they're for.
I've set up an appointment for you with Jacqueline Mackrell, Papa. She'll come today at half-four at the house. Look, I know it will upset Mama, but you really have to make the ward change now. You have to accept that Honoria's gone over to them. That's what makes you targets. And not just from the Phoenixes. There've been
I can't tell you details, but you must take this seriously.
I don't want to worry you, but it's important that you increase security at home and for Abueloberto and Abuelita. At the store, as well.
I've set up an appointment for you with Jacqueline Mackrell, Papa. She'll come today at half-four at the house. Look, I know it will upset Mama, but you really have to make the ward change now. You have to accept that Honoria's gone over to them. That's what makes you targets. And not just from the Phoenixes. There've been
I can't tell you details, but you must take this seriously.
Private Message to Rod
Aug. 2nd, 2015 12:28 pmWhere are you?
I'm sorry I slept so late, but-
What's happened? There hasn't been an attack somewhere, has there? Not the festival!Papa and Orion
Oh, gods. Last night. Crouch. And Mulciber.
Of all the
Antosha. I can't
Rod, he's
What's happened? There hasn't been an attack somewhere, has there? Not the festival!
Oh, gods. Last night. Crouch. And Mulciber.
Of all the
Antosha. I can't
Rod, he's
Have cleared south convalescent dormitory. Do you need us in another sector?
It's all just splendid, don't you think?
Have you got out on the water yet? The gondolas are perfect and it's absolutely as romantic as I expected, gliding along between the fire sculptures with the music floating on the breezes. The fires have attracted fairies, too, which I think was unexpected, but perhaps Gabriel brought them in as a final touch, out there flitting about, their reflections glittering on the waves.
We're on the South bank now, looking in at all the stalls. We've put in for a table at the Rialto Café at the foot of Westminster bridge. Come join us?
Have you got out on the water yet? The gondolas are perfect and it's absolutely as romantic as I expected, gliding along between the fire sculptures with the music floating on the breezes. The fires have attracted fairies, too, which I think was unexpected, but perhaps Gabriel brought them in as a final touch, out there flitting about, their reflections glittering on the waves.
We're on the South bank now, looking in at all the stalls. We've put in for a table at the Rialto Café at the foot of Westminster bridge. Come join us?
Listen, both of you. I've been taking meetings with Gabri and Nicola Burdett-Coutts, who are working their best magic to produce a series of entertainments for us. A proper bit of bread and circuses to defuse the tension everyone's been under.
They've got half a dozen things lined up, so now we need to work out publicity and tie-ins and strategies for making the most of these events for our purposes.
Could you make a meeting Friday afternoon if I set one up? P: you're needed to work the press, obviously, and to help shape the message. S: we'll want your contacts with artists of all stripes and with organisations/institutions and the deep pockets. Well, I can cover some of those, too, obviously, but I definitely need you in on this.
They've got half a dozen things lined up, so now we need to work out publicity and tie-ins and strategies for making the most of these events for our purposes.
Could you make a meeting Friday afternoon if I set one up? P: you're needed to work the press, obviously, and to help shape the message. S: we'll want your contacts with artists of all stripes and with organisations/institutions and the deep pockets. Well, I can cover some of those, too, obviously, but I definitely need you in on this.
Private Message to R Lestrange
Jun. 2nd, 2015 09:09 pmWe're off for tomorrow's supper, apparently.
Orion's just written and he's being completely useless.
Orion's just written and he's being completely useless.
Private Message to Orion Sandoval
Jun. 2nd, 2015 08:58 amI've got a start on my list. Do be a dear and find the very best of these for me?
I'm serious about its being only you or the elves making deliveries to L'Estrange Hill, but perhaps you could enlist one of your staff (whoever's got the best eye for colour, pattern, texture, and quality, mind) in selecting the right things. For instance, I really do need new linens for myself and a dressing gown. And comfortable shoes and slippers. I don't expect you to help with those.
Oh, and would you have a word with your tapestry mage? The ones here have gone sluggish and dozy. What does he recommend? I'll send them out if needs be, but if there's something I can have the elves do in situ, I'd like to know it. (There's quite a nice one that I think must be Jael and Sisera, but it's gone still.)
Am sending the elves with my list for the food hall, but be my darling brother and be sure that whenever a delivery's on its way here, it includes Chat Noir chocs and a box of those gorgeous tiny gateaux I love.
* Bed linens in a nice cream, 24 sets
* One of those lovely silk/wool woven coverlets with the vine embroidery. I want midnight blue. If you haven't got it, send samples
* Draperies.
** I want them royal to midnight for my suite. Last time I was there you had some with the constellations embroidered on in silver. Those are the ones I want. If you haven't got them... explain why you haven't.
** Will want to replace them throughout the house, so make a catalogue of what you've got in stock or think you can get in a reasonable time?
* Dressing table, fine but not fussy (make pictures or deliver several and we'll see which suits best)
* Armoir, elegant. (Make pictures so I can see what you've got) Be certain it's got a proper enlargement charm on. I won't have one of those scary monstrosities with antique charmwork that's failing, flickering in and out. I don't want any accidents with children about.
* Carpets. Persian for my suite. Chinese for the morning salon. (Perhaps something wonderful's come along in an estate sale recently? Or a seizure auction? I want something distinctive in a carpet. Not just medallions and lozenges. Don't bother sending anything with the tree of life motif. I've never seen one of those I'd give house room.)
* A small table for breakfasting outdoors.
* Comfortable furnishings for the sitting room. Nothing slouchy, of course. But comfortable. Honestly, you'd think Rod's never sat a minute in this house.
* Furnishings for the baby. I've no idea, really. Send the best of whatever you've got in that department. Blues, greens, silver. Nothing cheap or stupidly 'cheery', please.
I'm serious about its being only you or the elves making deliveries to L'Estrange Hill, but perhaps you could enlist one of your staff (whoever's got the best eye for colour, pattern, texture, and quality, mind) in selecting the right things. For instance, I really do need new linens for myself and a dressing gown. And comfortable shoes and slippers. I don't expect you to help with those.
Oh, and would you have a word with your tapestry mage? The ones here have gone sluggish and dozy. What does he recommend? I'll send them out if needs be, but if there's something I can have the elves do in situ, I'd like to know it. (There's quite a nice one that I think must be Jael and Sisera, but it's gone still.)
Am sending the elves with my list for the food hall, but be my darling brother and be sure that whenever a delivery's on its way here, it includes Chat Noir chocs and a box of those gorgeous tiny gateaux I love.
One of you take Weasley to the Hospital Wing. Now.
I'll call the elves to clean.
Ugh. Honestly!
I'll call the elves to clean.
Ugh. Honestly!
Attention, Gryffindors
May. 9th, 2015 10:26 pmEvery one of you should be in this common room. If you are anywhere else in the castle, you have exactly five minutes to return here.
Five minutes.
Five minutes.
Private Message to R Lestrange
May. 8th, 2015 03:08 pmRod, I wanted you to know that we'll need to postpone meeting re. the paper. I may have to miss the submission deadline, anyway. Unforeseen circumstances and the call of duty.
Our Lord arrived shortly before luncheon and has indicated He'll stay the weekend. You can imagine that we've been rather scrambling since yesterday evening when Broome informed the Headmaster to expect this visitation.
I'll be back in touch when I've a better idea of my calendar again. Possibly I'll have more time than I imagine during exam weeks. I'm having a difficult time remembering that those weeks will look rather different from my current side of the podium.
I'll keep you posted.
Our Lord arrived shortly before luncheon and has indicated He'll stay the weekend. You can imagine that we've been rather scrambling since yesterday evening when Broome informed the Headmaster to expect this visitation.
I'll be back in touch when I've a better idea of my calendar again. Possibly I'll have more time than I imagine during exam weeks. I'm having a difficult time remembering that those weeks will look rather different from my current side of the podium.
I'll keep you posted.
Just wanted to say how very pleased I was last hour with your performances. Believe it bodes very, very well for OWLs that you were able to overcome whatever nervousness you might have felt. Certainly our visitor today lent even more gravity to the proceedings than any Ministry examiner will do. So, see? Now you can face your exams with full confidence. (Which is not to say that you can give over revising, mind. Only that there's no need for extreme nerves.)
Morwenna and Lavinia: you did our House great honour when you managed the full battery of today's questions without stumble. And Lakshmi, I look forward to telling your Aunt Savitha this afternoon how you calculated all the angles and tempo shifts off the cuff as quickly as I could throw them at you.
Victoria and Eustacia: that was an exemplary demonstration. I heard Our Lord thrum his approval at your nimbleness.
Alexy and Maurice: nearly flawless. Shame about the fifth parry--and about that stumble, Scroops. Still, I believe it was outweighed by Yordanova's attacks and your feints.
That having been said, I don't want any of you thinking you can either rest on your laurels or grow silly over your successes. I expect to see you all carry yourselves with due seriousness this evening and throughout the weekend. Remember: you've set yourselves in His eye now, and it won't do to disappoint His expectations of your excellence.
I suggest you find time for a bit of a rest before supper, so you may come refreshed this evening.
Morwenna and Lavinia: you did our House great honour when you managed the full battery of today's questions without stumble. And Lakshmi, I look forward to telling your Aunt Savitha this afternoon how you calculated all the angles and tempo shifts off the cuff as quickly as I could throw them at you.
Victoria and Eustacia: that was an exemplary demonstration. I heard Our Lord thrum his approval at your nimbleness.
Alexy and Maurice: nearly flawless. Shame about the fifth parry--and about that stumble, Scroops. Still, I believe it was outweighed by Yordanova's attacks and your feints.
That having been said, I don't want any of you thinking you can either rest on your laurels or grow silly over your successes. I expect to see you all carry yourselves with due seriousness this evening and throughout the weekend. Remember: you've set yourselves in His eye now, and it won't do to disappoint His expectations of your excellence.
I suggest you find time for a bit of a rest before supper, so you may come refreshed this evening.
I'm confident every one in the House heard my message last evening. See to it that none of them brings humiliation--or worse--down on our heads. I'm counting on your wialdkjh;badfigjbsvn influe being able to keep order in the ranks.
Trust you got that calming draught into every one of the under-years this morning?
Trust you got that calming draught into every one of the under-years this morning?
Private Message to Ned
Apr. 18th, 2015 08:19 pmFine. Don't come home, then. Your supper's completely ruined.
Even elf magic couldn't make that soufflé keep from falling to tasteless mush.
Even elf magic couldn't make that soufflé keep from falling to tasteless mush.
