Rodolphus Lestrange

- Gentlemen,

Now that we have been thoroughly persuaded to put pursuit of bigger game on hiatus, I wondered if you would be willing to assist me with a small side project I've been tending to the last month or two.

I find myself dissatisfied with the number of branches on the Lestrange Tapestry. You both know that the Missus and I wanted more children than the two we have, but fate made mockery of our efforts. No more can be done for that, but the longer I look at the truncation beneath Raz's name, the more I wonder how it was that he never once impregnated a single witch. His appetite for female company was legendary, and yet he left no heirs behind. Unless there is one or more that we don't know of. I aim to discover just that.

While I cannot say I relish sorting through my dead brother's various liaisons, it's a necessary task. I have already accounted for the notable relationships, but the many flings, one-nighters, and prostitutes must be accounted for, as well. Raz wasn't the sort to shag and tell if he could help it, but women do talk, and gossip will out.

May I send both a copy of the list I am compiling? If you know of any other names that should be added, please make adjustments as needed. Barty, I know that you and he visited Pseudonymity several times. And then there are those mysterious years in the 80s when he was frequenting Borough Market on the regular. Though I prefer he not have sprogged up some wayward Halfblood, I intend this investigation to be thorough, no matter the outcome.

- Lana, should your weekend allow you respite from your other duties, I'm in my workshop at Le'Strange and could use the assistance of my former artefacts protégé.

I can tell you a bit about the items, should you need convincing that the visit is worth your time. One is undoubtedly remarkable, truly one-of-a-kind (words I would never use carelessly). The other appears rather unremarkable, given its state, but I anticipate that its appearance is highly deceiving.

Would you like to know more?

- Hydra,

I am aware of the exchange that took place today between you, your mother, and your Professors. Lest you consider appealing to me for an intervention, I must tell you that your mother and I are united in this matter.

I gave you a chance to mind the guidelines I put forth. I trusted you to put your trust in my judgement, and to respect the bond between us, but you have shown yourself lacking the same faith in me as I had in you. And for that, you must stand up and face these consequences on your own.

As for the boy - should he cross the line again, he will meet my wand on the other side. This time, there will be no mercy.

I'm sorry I regret it's come to this, Duckie. Be well and on your way.

You.

Both drop what you're doing and come to my workshop at St James. Now. At once.

Duckie,

Did you need me for something? An elf has just told me that you've been lingering outside my workshop for some time. You need only say the word, you know.

And - I've just looked at the clock and seen I've missed supper. A date for hot cocoa before bed, instead?

Very quickly.

You'll hear rumblings about it soon enough: the IMA is kicking up their heels as I write this. Your Mother's been there for days, and now I've been summoned, as well. Things may get sticky, but have faith: your parents have been up against and through much worse.

See you soon-
Your old Dad

Brother, you ought to have sent me these logs earlier. I can't say I like the progression I see here.

Very minimal frequency previous to June 12. It appears as if your attempt to avoid "triggers" was helping.

And then, what's this on July 12? All you've written is 10. So it lasted ten hours? Is that the longest yet?

Brother, I need you to search the castle and find Hydra at once.

I have reason to believe that... she may have been put in harm's way.

I have heard that congratulations are in good order, Miss Sandoval.

I hope that we can meet for tea at Le'Strange soon, and that you can tell me of your plans.

- Lana, how are you? It has been a memorable week.

The delight of having Barty back, after committing ourselves to the full devastation of his death, is rather a shock to the system. One can hardly tell head from feet in such turmoil.

I hope that you are sufficiently recovered, and not suffering any lingering distress. Or doubt.