Intermission: Letters


Dear Mr Rahul,

I'm afraid I am unaware of the distribution in Spain. It is true that we have received the packages of the items from Mr Brooks, but he has not approached the subject of an ammunitions factory in Spanish territory with me or my associates. Perhaps you know something that I don't? I'm sure, however, that our mutual friend is very thankful you are taking the protection of the warehouses upon yourself, considering the recent attacks in England and New York. It is always wise to safeguard one's assets. I suggest you approach Mr Brooks about the distributions; he would most likely be happy to hear your ideas on the matter.

Yours sincerely,

Alejandro Guillermo

.o00o.

To: Frank McAllister

From: Arif Rahul

Happy to hear New York was in good weather. Too bad about England – they have an early winter this year.

.o00o.

Dear Andro,

My letters to Henry are still being intercepted, so I am planning on calling on him tomorrow night. Enclosed you will find a Portkey. If you should like to be a good friend to me and meet with Henry as well, I would be much obliged. The boy makes me lovesick.

I heard about New York, belatedly, from an informant of mine. Do you know why Frank McAllister is showing his intentions so quickly and foolishly? I do not think Henry knows. His father, from the word around, is trying to keep certain things from the boy. He seems to think Henry is slipping and should back out of the proceedings. I supposed we'll see if he is correct tomorrow night, if you're not too busy to make the rather short trip. I won't be drinking this time.

I have recently spoken with Rashidi Shadd, and though I do not like the man much, I do pity him. His country is now completely immersed in civil war, and none of his allies have yet sent help. The guns he was promised have not arrived. Somehow, I do not think this a fault of Henry's, and I'm sure you agree with my reasons why. Rashidi is quickly losing faith in the war, Andro. He will drop out soon.

I think it might be prudent to inform Henry of these issues. Should I expect you?

Wishing you are well,

Mina Novikova

P.S. Uncle Mikki knows what's going on. I'm sorry, Andro, but he's terribly mad. I don't know what he'll say, but please tell me if I should have him locked in his room again. We've made it soundproof, I promise.

.o00o.

Alejandro,

Mina's told me some of what's going on, but she's tight-lipped about it all because she says I'm not to stress my nerves. I told her I'd fought in more wars, sanctioned and not, than she could even fathom. Young people have no respect these days, and you are young to me. I never thought I would say it, but you have no respect either.

What I've heard about the war isn't good, but to find that both my niece and the boy I considered a son are supporting such nonsense? My nerves are shot, Andro, and you're entirely to blame. Mina gave me your reasoning – about keeping your family, friends, and people safe. I call that bullshit. Yes, Andro: bullshit. I've known you since you were young enough to get away with pissing on me. That ridiculous explanation is the biggest load of crock I've heard in a long time. And I've been alive for a long time. I'm on death's door, Guillermo, and I demand an explanation that won't have me raging at you and causing my poor heart to strain.

So, why are you doing this?

You had better respond to my letter, boy; I'm not so old that I can't kick your stupid arse.

Bullshit,
Mikhail Voynovich

.o00o.

Damien,

Do not act until McAllister tells the time. The reckless fail.

Rahul

.o00o.

Denny,

We're old friends, you and I. I will not ask you to choose sides in this; it has very little to do with you, my friend. If there is a person to blame, it would be your son, and you know that I'm right no matter how much it pisses you off. Because of your delicate position, I will not ask you to choose. I will, however, tell you that this would be a good time to get out of it. Your life is forfeit if you keep fighting. I'm willing to give you a pardon, Brooks, because of our history together. Don't make me act, friend. Back out now. You could always adopt another.

Yours,
Frank McAllister

.o00o.

Frank,

To blazes with you and your fucking pardon.

Denny