Order Only: Private message to Albus

As you know, I have been working with the Malfoy boy in preparation for the rôle as double agent he proposes to adopt. I do not fear his ability to be chosen in this farce, nor do I fear his commitment to seeing matters through to their inevitable conclusion. Nor do I question the necessity of one of the children adopting such a rôle; I am well aware of how badly we suffer for lack of insight into the Death Eaters' ranks, and I am forced to admit Minerva's utility as double agent is long since spent.

What I fear is the price I am we are asking him to pay. I fear we are sending another child out to barter pieces of his soul, fleck by fleck, for scraps of advantage that might very likely prove nothing. I fear — I know — I am readying a bright and sensitive boy — far more sensitive than he would wish known, or indeed would admit to himself — to torture, rape, and kill, and in doing so present the lie to the Dark Lord that such monstrosities are his deepest desire.

Did you know what you were asking when you

I have thus far honoured your desire to remain sequestered from us all, but can no longer countenance your pretense that everything will work out better for your isolation. If you wish to command from the shadows, that is your right. I blame none but myself for having played my hand poorly and I am well accustomed to being used for strategic purpose. Still, even chess pieces must be encouraged, and command from the shadows necessitates the shadow-master issue the occasional command.

Tell me that you have a plan.

Order Only: Private message to Alice

Kindly tell me it would be counterproductive of me to petrify Albus and drop him in the lake.