February 10, 1896
Dear Ariel,
Big scenes such as that to which your friend describes would often be found wondering the grapevine throughout Hogwarts, regardless of which Mr. Black was behaving as such. When in doubt, observe your environment for such gossip. You needn't correct your friend, as such, but it seems as though they are keen on certain embellishments. When other stories of similar nature begin running rampant in only your friend group, and none other, it would be safe to say that a tall tale is being spun. Perhaps your friend simply has an overactive imagination and wishes to share in her stories of grandeur.
How much is this other girl teasing you? Is it all lighthearted and good natured, or do you feel a sense of malice behind such behavior? If she may simply be overstepping, you could politely and gently express your discomfort in a private moment between friends. I would not, however, call her on her behavior in a public setting. It would most certainly lead to self-conscious embarrassment and denials. Always try to assume the best first but be wary of the worst.
Your mother is steadily recovering. She means well by wishing to not discuss her struggles, any parent wishes to protect their children from harder truths. It has been difficult, but the healers promise a full recovery, and I see that as an excellent sign. With my profession, it is rare to dole out promises. Evangeline, Perseus, Calypso, and Hecate are all doing exceptionally well. Perseus keeps asking if you will be home soon, his patience for summer is rather short lived. Calypso attempts to join me in art, though progress will be slow and steady given her age. Father has allowed me to help fund for a language tutor, so that everyone could learn a few more languages than my siblings and I had growing up. Would you like to join during summer? I hear that Hogwarts has a French club now. Mine has always been a tad rusty, if you find the time it could be a great way to meet new people!
Nicholas sends his love. I'm sure he will write to you when he can. The training program for the aurors is quite intensive. But it keeps him quite safer and that is far more to my liking. I do miss him when he must work longer hours. Carmenta has been the picture of health, thank Merlin. She will likely start getting fussy by the time you come home, I believe, as her first teeth will likely begin growing. I'm sure you have grown accustomed to the process with our younger siblings over the last few years.
While Mr. Redford could certainly have been more tactful in his wording, there is a grain of truth. Teenage boys, generally, are vain and prideful creatures - largely without meaning to be. Especially when it comes to when they perceive themselves as 'weak'. I'm sure he simply doesn't want you to worry and has a hard time expressing it in a respectful manner. Be assured I will remind him of his manners when I write him next.
Without being sure of what ails him, it wouldn't do well for me to send anything that would be of real
use. I will urge him to see the nurse if he hasn't recovered by the time I write. I will, however, be sending him teas and soups - magic does wonders on food preservation. Have patience, give him some respectful space until he feels better, and I'm sure you'll notice in the common areas when he does begin to come around in health - if my letters to you with updates do not reach you first, that is.
Ever caring,
Acacia
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