The letter arrives at the Ministry just after lunch, before whizzing to rest on Abby's desk.

Abby,

You might have already heard about the events from yesterday at the grave. Even so, I'm writing to pass on my uncle's warning.

If you should ever feel a desire to visit Iona's grave don't go alone. Take somebody, or several people, with you.

My advise: Whatever you do don't touch the tree. There's a curse attached to it now.

Moira

An hour or so after lunch, Abby sends a reply written on Ministry parchment:


Moira,

I would ask if you cursed it, but you are probably not in the mood for jokes! --I have now pestered Aurors and gotten some details. Are you and Donnan alright?? That's seriously horrible and scary and upsetting. Let me know if I can do anything or if I can pester Level 2 on your behalf.

Much love and hugs,
Abby!

Half an hour later, Abby gets another letter to explain the situation:



Abby,

Donnan's really shook up, understandably. I imagine my uncle will be checking on him regularly for a while.

No, I did not curse the tree. The tree cursed me. I just got home from St. Mungos a short while ago, there was some kind of poison that made me lose my voice. The remedy I was given can't completely break it, either. Kind of like it just cracked the door open to breaking it.

This is so annoying.

Moira

I'm so sorry that happened to you and Donnan! I'm glad you're annoyed only because I know that means you're well enough to be annoyed. Can I do anything? Do you need someone to pick up the remedy for you?

There's been way too much poison suspicious activity going on this month. I sound like I've been drinking the Coolade, but it's true! Like it seems like we haven't had any big ambushes, but lots is going on internally. ANYWAY. I'm upset that you've been langlocked by a tree.

-Abby!

Thank you, but I took the remedy while I was still at the hospital.

I don't really want to admit this but I know you're worried. The medwitch said the only thing to do now is practice talking. A lot. As I said, annoying. I'm sure she would be happy if I talked as much as you do, and I mean that in the best way possible.

There has been a lot of suspicious activity for several months now, I think. I don't like it.

- Moira

P.S. How's your tattoo doing? It should be all healed up by now.

Oh wow! I know you hate it, but I can definitely help you with talking. We can talk allll day. I am here. for. you!

In fact! Would you like to join me at Sasha's surprise birthday party tomorrow evening? Key word: surprise. Anton and I have been planning it which means it will be full of glitter and sunshine and smooches for Sasha. Also, we might be playing a fun game that will require talking but no pesky truth-telling. There will be lots - a few - lovely people there that you like! I'll send you the details in a proper invite once I get home.

(My tattoo is healing well! How is yours? We can show each other tomorrowwww)

~Abby!

Tomorrow?

Damn, I wish I had known sooner. I have work tomorrow. (I had work today too but you know.) It's okay though! I'll just pester talk to my coworkers until I can find someone to switch some hours with me. I'll make it work.

I know at least two (I'm still undecided about Anton) people who will be there that I like and that's more than worth it. I look forward to reading the details.

Glad to hear your tattoo is doing well. Mine finally stopped itching. I'd like to see yours again, so that sounds good.

- Moira

Yay!

I can't wait to see you. Anton's party skills rival even mine, so you can expect Great Things. (Just not timely invites, oops)

I think it'll be a small get-together? We'll see who shows up!

~Abby!