Order Only: Private Message to Hydra

[alt_justin]

Dux,

Jack brought me your message this morning. You got mine, then?

How has Auror Crouch liked your act so far? And have you been able to find out who's coming to question us, and when?

-Justin

Comments

[alt_hydra]

He was really odd there, for a moment. He's over-worked and it caused him to let down his guard. He spoke with me about intimacy and being vulnerable, how both can open you to betrayal but without them, you deny yourself "a lot." And then he remembered himself and turned quite stern. But it was a curious glimpse into his psyche. Even the frightening Auror Crouch sometimes needs people to confide in and feel close to. I guess my mother is the only human alive who does not.

Anyway, he then reminded me that my position means I have no choice but to trust in him completely.

I think being vulnerable with him now and again would be a good strategy, though not too often. He would find it repulsive most of the time. But right now he believes I am feeling betrayed by my cousin Dora and upset that I may have also inadvertently betrayed Harry, as a result.

I sound so confident, but I'm not. I can't be sure of what he believes. He's extremely clever. And he's not entirely wrong, either. I do have to trust him, if I'm going to learn anything from him. I hate it. I'm sweating so much I've soaked through the back of my nightgown.

No... I don't think I've done any harm but I don't know for sure if I've done any good.

[alt_justin]

Oh, your mother does want to feel close to someone. Trouble is her choice is more daft than most, what.

I'm sure you'll do everything you need to do to fool him. Don't lose faith, love.

-J

[alt_hydra]

I won't.

Only my history of subterfuge is not good. It was impossible with Mummy, but she's always had a low opinion of me, and would tell me she was reading my mind even when she wasn't. That's why I always told the truth for so long, just by default. Later, I just played daft or kept quiet, and I suppose that's what I'm used to. So I'm just a little nervous.

He just complimented me, so I think the conversation went alright. He doesn't seem very concerned about the tea appreciators, but he did ask me for their names and indicated MLE might follow up with questioning.

[alt_justin]

You're fine. You're careful. Being around your mother so long has taught you to keep your cards close to the chest. That's all you need do with Crouch.

I know it's his job to make you feel insecure but you really ought to see yourself when you take decisions the way your parents would do. It's quite impressive. I do believe you could storm the dungeons of Buckingham and no one would think it at all irregular.

-J

[alt_hydra]

Daphne's advice about lying helped. She says to always mix it with a little bit of the truth.

It sounds like it's quite scary, in addition to being quite impressive. But that might be just what we need.

I've been ordered to sleep, and I really am tired. As soon as I change my sweaty nightgown I think I'll close my book. (Too bad you can't change it for me!)

Goodnight love. Kisses.

[alt_justin]

Yes, that's just the trick.

If I were there, I'd tell you not to bother putting on a new nightgown, what! (Now I'll likely lie here for a bit imagining that....) But change it and get some sleep. We can worry about MLE's questioning tomorrow.

Sweet dreams, dear heart,

-Effs