The Contract
Chapter 106
Corvus' eyes roamed over every single one of his guests, all of them waiting patiently for him to finish his speech so the meal could begin. The smugness he felt could not be described or downplayed. Both his sons were happy, both his sons would likely end up married, and he would gain those grandchildren he longed for so much. He was lucky really, not many of his generation had survived the last war, those that had were actually grandfathers or grandmothers much to his consternation. Dowager Longbottom even had a grandchild, although from the whispered rumours he'd heard from the young Slytherin's reporting back to their parents, she definitely didn't deserve one.
Watching the unmarried witches almost salivate over the confirmation they'd waited for. Corvus truly felt sorry for them, in a way, they didn't have much in the way of choices in their lives. His own wife had been rather apprehensive but the more she got to know him the happier she was with the match. The witches could only hope for a good match, it wasn't always money they wanted, just someone more progressive. Times had changed since then; witches weren't being quite so strictly forced. That and also the fact witches were being given more choice and the contracts were becoming farer to both sexes. Not equal, he doubted very much it would be equal unless the family knew they had the upper hand when it concerned a daughter.
If they were hoping for a match with his Rabastan they were in for grave disappointment. Because quite frankly, Rabastan couldn't have gotten a better match if he tried. Harry knew what he wanted, and he went to any lengths required to get what he wanted. He liked to think he played a part in Harry's confidence, but it had been there, buried under the desperation to get out of the Dursley's and Dumbledore's hold. He had just helped bring out his full potential.
Corvus was knocked out of his thoughts with a subtle kick to his leg, not enough to hurt, just a nudge to bring him back to reality. Naturally, he did not startle or flail like a buffoon, he just raised his glass a little higher, "But tonight we are also celebrating my other son, Rabastan's engagement contract being finalised as well, so, a toast to the happy couples, Rodolphus and Sirius, Rabastan and Harry," Corvus continued despite the looks on everyone's faces. "It means a great deal that you could be here to celebrate such a milestone event with us. Marking the occasion as the beginning of their lifelong commitments to each other." Betrothal weren't lifelong commitments, engagement contracts were, as was actually bonding and being wed.
"He's getting way too much amusement out of this," Harry said, but the glee in his voice spoke of his own merriment over Corvus' dramatic pauses. Then again, he was already amused by teasing Sirius, it was so fun to tease, he got why Sirius liked to do it so much now.
Rabastan was busy watching everyone's reaction, he was in optimal position, next to his father and Harry, his brother was directly opposite him with Sirius. All in all, they did have a good vantage point to see everyone's reactions. The long table was missing one seat, the head of the table meant for Corvus' significant other, his wife. He never had a chair there, not since he lost her.
The jaws of every single one of their acquaintances had dropped, some more than others. Staring in a stunned daze at Corvus, their champagne glasses tilting a little. It was just five seconds of lost composure, then their spines straightened, jaws snapped shut, tell-tale signs popped up that showed embarrassment, red ears, red cheeks, shifting very slightly, mortification via not meeting your eyes or staring at the table. Those five seconds were always going to be remembered with unmitigated glee by Corvus, Harry, Rabastan, Rodolphus, Sirius, Barty and of course the Dark Lord who everyone knew here as Headmaster Slytherin or Lord Aurelias Slytherin.
"But I thought…" came the whispered shocked response of Tamara Travers, who was gripped tightly by her father who was still reeling in shock. The last thing Lord Travers ever expected to hear was that both Lestrange boys were soon-to-wed.
Corvus' eyes narrowed in on the witch, the gossiping little harpy! She would find herself down some serious commissions and he would take as many of the others as he could convince with him to other tailors. He had been very happy with her services in the past and had passed on her name, repaying loyalty with loyalty. Unfortunately, it seemed it was very one sided. Assuming was one thing but to gossip about it? About what she thought he was doing with his life? To gossip about a Lord of his standing? Such idiocy, she'd not just hurt her finances, but her family and her name. Even more so now that Harry was fast outgrowing his clothes.
It was naturally about time; between the potions he should have been having growth spurts like this long ago. Then again, this was the age where it happened naturally, he was a growing boy. Harry had bought new clothes from Gladrags when he returned for the winter. He'd had no desire to wait on a tailor for clothes that were comfortable. Already his tailored clothes were way too tight, that included the spells to make them bigger, he needed something comfortable. With all of society demanding outfits for the party, Harry didn't stand a chance of getting a new wardrobe by someone proficient.
Everyone had known Rodolphus had entered another betrothal after the death of his wife, Lady Lestrange. It hadn't been announced in the paper of course, but it had been rather obvious to anyone with eyes. In mere months he was to be married again? To another Black? The first one had been disastrous; it would likely end that way again. The fact that Corvus had been allowing this…travesty happen surprised them all. He was the eldest son, the heir of the Lestrange estate. Yet he was marrying a wizard incapable of giving him children? Ergo, he didn't plan on continuing the Lestrange line or becoming Heir. Which left it to his brother, Rabastan Lestrange to fulfil the duties and become Lord when it was time. It's for that reason that every single Lord and Lady had brought all their daughters who were at a marriageable age with them to this party instead of their heirs.
Parties like these were usually for building connections, but they'd wrongly assumed that it would be about finding a suitable match for Rabastan. So those married, had not been informed they were to attend. It was clear that Rabastan Lestrange was to be married as well. Both of them married to men, not carriers, evidently Corvus had let the family go to the dogs.
Which they knew no self-respecting wizard would allow, especially not one with such illustriousness as the Lestrange name. He'd married his son off to the Black girl with barely a few meetings, that was how much he wanted the Lestrange name to continue on. Not that it was a surprise, really, most parents had done the same thing, they were in the middle of a war. Children were the only guarantee that their family name would continue should anything happen to the Lord or the Heir.
No, there was something they weren't seeing, one of the fiancé's had to be a carrier, there was no other explanation. How either of them could be fertile or healthy enough to carry to term was another mystery altogether. They'd heard just how underdeveloped Heir Potter had been at eleven with warnings that he wasn't to be touched by Corvus then the Dark Lord. Read about his ill health in the newspaper afterwards with far graver words than they'd expected. Then his ordeal being kidnapped, it just didn't seem likely that he'd be the one. Sirius wasn't any more likely, over a decade in Azkaban? He was still thinner than he ought to be, and if he had been a carrier Walburga would have smugly thrown it in everyone's faces. None of this made sense whatsoever.
"To Rodolphus and Sirius, to Rabastan and Harry, may good fortune guide your journeys together," Lord Slytherin declared, his eyes filled with mirth, raising his glass he toasted for the dumbstruck idiots standing around the table unable to comprehend what they were hearing. At the very least they had stopped gaping like dim-witted fish out of water. There were only a few people truly unsurprised, the Carrow family was one such family. It didn't escape his notice that Bill was far more composed than most at the table.
Everyone regained their scattered wits enough to cheerfully repeat Lord Slytherins words, congratulating the happy couples. The witches who had gotten all dressed up with their hopes and dreams shattering around them were rather lacklustre in their cheers. In fact, if you looked close enough, you'd see a few were devastated enough that they had tears in their eyes.
Rodolphus stood up non-verbally casting a sticking charm to the seat closest to him, as his father sat down. Picking up his glass, his mind mulling over the words he wanted to say. It was tradition for the 'heir' or oldest in the engagement to speak.
Nobody heard the muted thump under the table, as Sirius stared up at Rodolphus, eyes gleaming with merciless delight.
Rodolphus was just barely able to stop the drink sloshing everywhere and crying out. Instead, his eyebrows drew together for a few brief moments, the pain from Sirius stomping on his foot – with his bleeding dragonhide boots on – in retaliation for using the sticking charm to keep him seated. He knew Sirius would just deliberately stand just to be contrary, and he would find it funny after drinking way too much.
"Good evening, my name is Rodolphus Lestrange, as I'm sure you're all aware," Rodolphus informed the group, meeting the Dark Lord, Bill, the Carrows, a few members of the wizengamot, as he spoke. It was rude to stare at just one person, and so he knew to keep his gaze short but encouraging, it allowed them all to feel 'part' of the day. Grinning in wry amusement at their tittering laughs. It was by no means funny, but it was rude not to introduce yourself, whether everyone knew you or not. "Thank you for coming today to help us celebrate our engagement, Sirius and I…don't have a big family, except for my father, Corvus, my brother Rabastan and my soon to be brother-in-law Harry, and of course, Narcissa, Sirius' cousin, so we appreciate our friends wishing us well with our future." Sirius didn't have any family left; except cousins he hadn't spoken to since he split with the family. Not even Andromeda had given him the time of day, or believed he could be innocent.
It was much easier for them to lift their glasses again in celebration, giving heartfelt congratulations. None of them had brought gifts, none of them had been aware of the announcements that would be made. They'd not required to bring gifts, but as is customary, they would need to go out and buy a card and a gift. Twice over actually. For Rodolphus and Sirius as well as Rabastan and Harry. Then send them on to Lestrange Manor as soon as possible. It certainly wouldn't be the first spontaneous announcement of an engagement in history. Nor would it likely to be the last.
Rabastan stood once his brother had said his piece, "Thank you all for coming, my name is Rabastan and I just want to let everyone know that neither Harry or I expect gifts. I have promised my fiancé that we will have a proper celebration when the time is right." Rabastan told them all, kissing Harry's hand staring at his fiancé in utter besottment. Harry deserved the best, not having to share his special day with anyone, not even Sirius and Rodolphus. Sure, they were happy for them, but Harry deserved a day of celebration to remember where he was the sole focus. Plus, they planned on a long engagement, that much was obvious. Harry still had three years before he was legally an adult. "Everyone here are the only ones in the know…and it will remain that way if you all know what's good for you." he outright threatened them, "My fiancé has had enough of the newspapers announcements." Softening the threat only marginally, especially for those who were not dark supporters or sympathisers, did not know the Dark Lord had returned, and had nothing to be afraid of by gossiping about it.
Draco watched Rabastan with a critical eye, he'd been watching them all night as a matter of fact. He'd observed that Rabastan was constantly aware of Harry in his orbit. Touching him, back, shoulder, hands, something he observed his parents doing quite frequently when they were at home. As if they couldn't bear to be away from each other, or not touching for a second. His parents could, you wouldn't think they liked each other let alone loved one another when they were out in public. It wasn't just because of the whole pureblood thing either, they were targets, as Malfoy's, as purebloods. They had more money than they would ever need in a million life times (slight exaggeration he knew) and if they showed weakness, it would just encourage danger. Have either of them abducted for monetary gains. To keep her safe if Lucius was ever found out to be a Death Eater.
Of course, Draco wanted to imitate himself in his parents, emulate their relationship. His plans of course, were not going to come to fruition. For Draco did not realize just how difficult it was for his parents, and by the time he was to be wed? It wasn't going to be a problem or need. Craning his neck to see Harry's reaction to the announcement. It didn't sound like Harry if he was being honest. Harry wasn't one for publicity, unless it was geared towards the future and making a name for himself. He realized this was definitely something Harry wanted. The Ravenclaw had that look on his face.
Harry's lips curled into a smug smirk, staring down the devasted witches who were still coming to terms with the announcement. He would feel bad for them if they had any feeling for Rabastan. They didn't, they just saw an easy life with an attractive wizard. They didn't care about Rabastan, hadn't been there through the good times and the bad. He knew more about his fiancé than they ever would. Rabastan was his, like hell would he let spoilt witches who haven't had a hard day in their live take him.
The witches stared back, envy and jealousy surging through them, watching the genuine emotion Rabastan was displaying for Harry at that very moment. Young they may be (older than Harry but younger than Rabastan) but they could see besottment when they saw it. It wasn't often infatuation and budding love was found so soon into a contract, whether it's a betrothal or engagement. It was so unfair; it was so rare for someone to come along not betrothed or looking for a new betrothal contract. They wanted very much to find someone suitable here, and not end up with a foreign pureblood wizard in a country they weren't familiar with. Or a really older wizard looking for a second wife after the death of their first. That wasn't even worst of it, the worst was ending up an old maid.
Bill narrowed his eyes at the blatant threat before he thawed immediately afterwards. Of course, if they were betrothed to one another, Harry would talk to Rabastan about what was bothering him. Naturally, the press was sure to come up in a lot of conversations between the two. He wondered if they'd met through Rodolphus and Sirius or if it had all begun earlier than that? It was such a short betrothal – for both of them – if that was the case. At least Rodolphus and Sirius were adults, whereas Harry was not. Licking his lips, he leaned over to Aurelius' and asking so quietly to ensure that nobody would overhear, "Is there anyone making sure Harry's not…being taken advantage of?" his eyes shadowed with real genuine worry.
Aurelius' stared at Bill blankly for over a minute, as if he couldn't comprehend the question. It didn't take long at all for amusement to spread across his face. "Believe me Harry is most certainly not being taken advantage of," Lord Slytherin replied, what was it about Harry that made everyone see a poor abused child? He'd proven time and time again that his situation didn't make him weak or mouldable. He'd been far stronger than he needed to be for so long, mostly due to having nobody to rely on.
"He's nearly two decades older than Harry," Bill pointed out, drinking the champagne.
"Not when you deduct the time spent in Azkaban, isolated from society and spending most of his time entirely out of it courtesy of the Dementors." Aurelius chided Bill for thinking the worst of Rabastan. Given what had happened these past years, he couldn't really blame Bill for assuming or thinking the worst of any giving situation. "Just because he was innocent it doesn't mean he had an easy time of it. They were all so young when they were imprisoned on false charges or worse without trial." Meaning Rodolphus, Rabastan and of course, Sirius was the only one truly innocent but to the world they were all collectively innocent. Along with the other Death Eaters who had been caught and imprisoned after the war with 'You-Know-Who' ended that faithful Halloween night.
"Well, when you put it like that," Bill murmured conceding the point, he hadn't meant it in a bad way with the age difference just that Rabastan had a bigger world view, he'd know how to entirely overwhelm someone still young into marrying and without all the proper precautions. It certainly would bolster the Lestrange name, and the money certainly couldn't hurt.
"…I hope you all enjoy your meal, for the starter we have Angels on horseback, a classical and traditional English hors D' oeuvre." Corvus said, as he spoke the dish appeared on the table, the aroma immediately causing their stomachs to grumble hungrily.
"Its oysters wrapped in bacon," Rabastan whispered quietly to Harry, they always went over the top when it came to celebratory meals, so Harry probably hadn't had them yet. No doubt he'd become increasingly used to them as time went on. They were a favourite of his fathers for special occasions. The plate had some sauce drizzled on top, it was rather small, only three oysters wrapped in bacon.
"They're delicious!" Harry said, as he eagerly cut off another portion and began another piece.
Rabastan snuck half his portion onto Harry's plate with a playful wink.
"Don't worry so much," Aurelius' declared, wiping his mouth as he spoke, maddeningly polite. "You are aware of whom his grandmother was are you not?" and her reputation was very well known, even to those who did not personally know her. If there had been one person out of all the Black's he would have gladly allowed within his ranks it would be her. Bellatrix and Narcissa were nothing like her, and if they'd had any aspirations to be they'd failed drastically.
Harry? Why Harry was her double, not in looks but smarts and dedication, he was going to outshine her in all ways possible.
Bill frowned, "Euphemia Potter?"
Lord Slytherin choked on the food, swallowing it awkwardly, blinking rapidly as he continued to swallow the lump in his throat. "Excuse me?" how on earth would anyone think Euphemia Potter was Harry's grandmother? Picking up his goblet of water and swallowing nearly enough the entire glass. "What made you think she is his grandmother?" an utter look of bafflement on his face, and entirely genuine it was too.
"I…" Bill frowned, trying to recall why he'd think that, "I'm pretty sure it was on the chocolate frog cards in Harry's name?" he said, for the life of him he couldn't actually pinpoint how he knew. "Oh, Molly used to mention them from time to time, not quite sure why, they died before Harry was born."
Lord Slytherin arched his brow, sipping his wine, finishing off his first course. "Yes, I recall reading an article about the chocolate frog cards, and how unsuitable it was to have a child on the card. Dumbledore got howlers for months after the batches were sent out. He kept it going for six months before he gave in and the chocolate was recalled, any that have one…has very rare memorabilia indeed."
Bill nodded vehemently, "Ron had it, he had the entire collection, I sold them to a collector," if he'd known what he knew now he probably wouldn't have. Unfortunately, he hadn't known this would be their future. Whether they were more than alright, Percy, Fred and George had their own vaults open now that his father had plenty money coming in from working full time and his own percentage of the profits and such for the items he created. Fred and George had worked over the summer adding more funds to their vaults too.
Lord Slytherin scoffed imperceptibly, "Considering that Harry informed me that a Mr. Rubeus Hagrid came to get him for his first visit to Hogwarts and his incessant comments regarding Dumbledore's character, I believe he tried to create the perfect family for Harry whether it was true or not. Fleamont and Euphemia had no child, Charlus, Fleamont's younger brother had a son with Dorea Black-Potter. That child was James Potter, thus Dorea and Charlus are his grandparents, it's not a mistake easily made, especially considering for sure that Fleamont and Dumbledore surely attended school together?" he'd need to get his hands on one of those chocolate Frogs, no doubt a way for Dumbledore to continue spreading the word of Harry's accomplishments and build him up as larger than life. luckily at least, it seemed the wizarding world didn't approve of it, and Dumbledore didn't make money out of trying to sell Harry out to the public.
Bill grinned sadly, "Yeah, Hagrid thought the sun shone out of Dumbledore," he confessed, "At least until the newspapers brought out all the information he'd crumbled. He's a very gentle soul despite his size, he still hasn't recovered the horror of Dumbledore's betrayal."
Lord Slytherin cocked his head to the side, "I can't say I ever met him, I only kept on the professors that were clearly qualified for their jobs and magically capable. Which was sadly not many, but I am pleased to say that Hogwarts is now a well-oiled machine. You know him?" he hadn't heard anything about Hagrid, and was surprised Bill kept in touch with him. Smug that Hogwarts was by far better than ever – even since before his time at the school – so it was his right to feel smug over it.
"Oh, he's apprenticed to one of Charlie's friends, on the Dragon reserve," Bill said, "He had to learn Romanian to get the spot, which wasn't easy for Hagrid. He could barely speak English most days. Charlie's friend, Luca isn't really well versed in English, so only takes on apprenticeships with those who can understand and speak Romanian. That and as far as I recall, Hagrid had to take at least his O.W.L's to start using a wand."
"Why didn't Charlie apprentice him?" Lord Slytherin couldn't help but query curiosity. Setting the cutlery aside, having finished his starter, which had been delicious, not surprising considering Corvus hired the best of caterers.
"Charlie's never taken on an apprentice, he's not a senior yet, he had two more years of working there before he's a senior, and that comes with a pay rise, apprentices, and actually deciding on how much to sell the accumulation of dragon ingredients when the dragon's he's watched over pass away." The funds just went right back into the reserve, so they could continue looking after the dragons in their care. "I'm not sure Charlie has the patience to deal with Hagrid, in all seriousness. Charlie takes his craft very seriously and Hagrid just seems cute cuddly bunnies when he's dealing with any sort of animal."
"That I can believe," Lord Slytherin agreed with a small snort, "I read his file, raising werewolf cubs under his bed, giant spiders, and Merlin only knows what else." he knew a lot more than that, of course, but he couldn't very well say anything. Even if it was unlikely that Bill would ever get his hands on Hagrid's file to compare it. He was always very careful; he was not going to oust himself by being an idiot. He had a new life here and he intended to keep it.
"Second course, Oxtail Consommé," Corvus informed them as the soup appeared in front of them all.
"How could I have been so wrong?" Tamara whispered heatedly towards her best friend; brow furrowed still reeling over the new information given to her. Luckily, they were in identical social circles which meant they were normally seated together.
"I did warn you," her friend couldn't help but tell her smugly, refraining from pointing her spoon at her friend. Unformal settings would have been fine to do it, but right now? No way, especially with their every watch being monitored. "It was ludicrous to think he had any interest." Giving her best friend a blank look.
Tamara groaned dramatically, "Why else was the boy even there when he was eleven?" utterly baffled by it all. Groaning a little, the soup was delicious. "Delicious!"
"Hmm, let me think…it's none of your business," she mock whispered, rolling her eyes, as always asking herself why she was best friends with Tamara. "And please, stop discussing it here, you're going to end up getting yourself into serious trouble!" her tone exasperated showing signs repetition. Which is exactly what it was, Tamara was such a gossip that she just didn't even pay attention when she went on tangents about things she'd seen or heard.
"Nobody is listening," Tamara rolled her eyes, watching the group as she daintily sipped her soup, taking every care to stop herself spilling anything on her evening gown. Which she had begun creating the moment the announcement was made, although she'd hoped that at least one of the Lestrange's were free to marry. There was nobody in the world who wouldn't pay through the nose for a chance to be family with Harry Potter.
Her friend just gave her a droll look, seriously, they were capable of eavesdropping from miles away, and she thought nobody was listening? Someone was always listening; she was one such person as a matter of fact. She preferred to listen to everything and everyone over talking herself.
"Callie!" Tamara grumbled, before quieting down, conceding she was right, of course.
"You were right though, the food tastes amazing," Callie fully agreed.
"Doesn't it just sweetheart?" her mother agreed fully with her daughters' sentiments, she then dabbed her mouth to get rid of any remains of the soup. Her husband she noticed was definitely enjoying the soup, and she couldn't help but sigh softly in contentment. She'd been struggling endlessly to raise their children while he was in Azkaban. She was so very glad that he was out again, she must thank Heir Potter if she got the opportunity tonight. She knew he was partly responsible for their success if nothing else. It doesn't help that they weren't discussing it.
"Third course, Blueberry Sorbet," Corvus told them, as the third course appeared, it was one scoop dish, it cleansed the pallet before the main course.
"This is good, but we'll have to have the strawberry ones for our party," Harry said, as he ate it, the flavour was well picked he must admit. Then again, considering how much thought he knew Corvus had put into it, it wasn't really a surprise. It had been specially made for Corvus, his own design even if he didn't cook it and simply had caters catering to the event tonight.
Rabastan blinked, his gaze shifting towards Harry and he smiled, it was a small one but genuine nonetheless. He didn't think he'd ever get used to someone knowing him so well. Even Barty hadn't noticed those particularities about him. His brother and father as well as Harry were the only ones to notice things like that. Then again, as teens they were all self-absorbed. It would have changed if they hadn't been shoved in Azkaban, he was sure, but the reality was, they had and neither he or Barty had gotten the chance to grow up. It's not like he knew everything about Barty either, he definitely knew his favourite foods though, but that's only because he was often over here, at his home instead of at the Crouch estate. "That sounds good," he confessed, it appeared as if Harry actually wanted to set it up himself, normally it was left to the Lord of the estate, which would mean his father.
"I think people have gotten over the shock," Harry said, looking around, their countenance was much merrier than it had been earlier.
"That's the drink," Rabastan said wryly, looking around himself, the soft sound of the piano going on in the background a soothing melody. "They'll probably spend all of tomorrow in a state of shock."
Harry giggled behind his hand, green eyes glimmering brightly, just imagining all their reactions. It was funny to think on it, imagining the looks on their faces. "It can't be that much a shock," he pointed out, wrinkling his face up, "I mean it's not like my association with you is completely hidden…" hell, out of all the people here Lord Weasley was probably the only one that didn't know everything.
"Association is one thing, marriage is another thing entirely," Rabastan said, "Regardless of what side they used to be on, they will assume you've been manipulated into this." his lips quirking in amusement. "I do hope I get to see you all correcting them." Nothing would give him greater delight than to watch Harry steamroll all over the idiots who thought for a second, he was being used in any way shape or form.
Harry cocked his head to the side, "You wouldn't defend me?" he asked in mock sadness.
"I would if you needed it," Rabastan said wryly.
"Needed what?" Sirius asked, leaning over to hear Rabastan and Harry a little better.
"He wouldn't defend me," Harry said immediately and emphatically.
Sirius' eyes narrowed immediately, "From what?" entirely serious, looking around the room as if expecting to see something pop out so that Harry's earlier statement made sense.
"Don't start him off, not here," Rabastan shook his head, but it was without that inward panic that he connected with Bellatrix before Azkaban. Sirius wasn't anywhere near as bad as Bellatrix, but there were just some compulsive issues, he liked being way too mischievous.
Harry rolled his eyes, before telling Sirius, "I'm just kidding around, I promise," as fun as it would be to see Sirius shock everyone in the room…he wouldn't wish to cause Corvus any undue stress.
"Fourth course, Lobster-stuffed Wellington, with roast potatoes, baby carrots and a Truffle Demi-glace, enjoy." Corvus called to them, drooling copiously. He'd watched his diet so long, and the others watching his diet so long that it was lovely to pick whatever he wanted to eat. Although he was limited to his drinks, he was still going to make the most of tonight. He did want to be around to see any grandchild he may have born, and boy did he want to see that. "And you four, behave, otherwise I'll have you locked up in different rooms for the rest of the evening."
Sirius glanced at Rodolphus, Corvus sounded really serious, "Yes, father means it,"
Sirius begun to snigger after seeing Rabastan turning red, hand clasping over his mouth so his guffaws weren't heard. "You have to tell me what happened," realizing it had most definitely happened in the past.
"Tomorrow," Rodolphus promised, leaning back, happier than he remembered being. Linking his hand with Sirius' he'd been a fool to hold himself back. To not just try for what he wanted, but then again, neither of them had been in any condition to start a relationship really. Not physically and certainly not mentally.
"We're holding you to it!" proclaimed Sirius and Harry, both supporting gleeful looks, they definitely weren't about to let Rabastan and Rodolphus off with that little titbit. Harry couldn't help but wonder what age they were, what they'd done to deserve it. It would be hilarious if they were older than him, he must admit.
"My compliments to the chef, Corvus," Lord Slytherin declared, raising his goblet.
"It's truly scrumptious!"
Everyone was quick to give their own compliments and agreements, each wine they tried was pared perfectly with the food. Although, they may have slurred a bit, champagne and wine? Especially with so little food, not a good idea at all. Them being more careful with their drinks now that the food was being eaten, sobering them just a little.
"I'll be sure to inform them of their well-deserved feedback," Corvus told everyone, straightening up smugly, not surprised everyone enjoyed the meal. He had hired them for a reason, and it most certainly wasn't only because they were pureblood. No, he had hired them in the past, and their food was always first-rate. After that Corvus went back to speaking with the Sheikh as best as he was able, paying an equal amount of attention to his wife, she did not know anyone else except her husband and children and he wanted her to feel very welcome.
The main meal was quickly consumed as joyful and merry conversations were had. Before too long, the dessert was served. A blueberry lemon trifle, a refreshing lemon filling and fresh blueberries give this sunny dessert sensation plenty of color and the taste was divine. Everything freshly made just before the meal, it was so good that despite being full, they made sure to eat every drop. Even the Sheikh and his family ate it all, despite the tradition to leave at least a little bit on the plate. Then again, they might have been respecting Corvus, after all they had different traditions. Leaving food on the plate here was insinuating you didn't enjoy it.
As soon as everything disappeared on the table, down to the last glass or napkin, everyone having consumed their dessert, Corvus stood up, "Ladies and Gentlemen I hope you enjoyed your meal, please make your way through to the Grand Hall next door for the rest of the festivities."
Harry moved to stand but Corvus' hand lay on Harry's arm, "We must be the last to arrive."
Harry blinked, "Why?" there was just some things he did not understand about high society ways, but accepted them nonetheless.
"It's just the way things go, then we must proceed to try and speak to everyone at the party at least once and for a few moments," Corvus told Harry. "An attempt was made earlier, but we definitely didn't get around everyone." he whispered quietly to Harry as the guests made their way to the Grand Hall. Somewhere Harry hadn't actually been before, the castle was huge, too many rooms by far. He'd been too sick when he first came to live here. Too sick to curiously investigate the castle. Now though, he was too busy for such frivolity. He was behind people a great deal when it came to certain knowledge. It was rude not to at least thank them personally for coming or say hello at the bare minimum.
"And you do have to accept any requests to dance, blood feuds had started with such requests being denied." Rodolphus added shooting Harry a grin.
Harry sniffed, "I'm well aware of that particular…annoyance." A glimmer in his eye.
"And don't stand of their feet deliberately," Rodolphus added, narrowing his gaze in on Harry knowing he'd do something like that.
Harry blinked innocently at Rodolphus, "What makes you think I'd do something like that?"
Corvus chortled, "Come, let's go before we're more than fashionably late." Urging his sons – and he did consider Harry a son – out their seats now that the dinning hall was now empty.
"I hope the fires are going," Harry said, as he wrapped his outer robe a little tighter, it was rather chilly. Which surprised him, it was always warmer than this in the manor. Did some of the fires not get lit tonight or something?
Rabastan tapped Harry's cloak with the tip of his wand, "Better?" he enquired, most of Harry's clothes actually had that spell imbued to give him that extra warmth when required. That and the fact there wasn't a lot of fires going it would have been stiflingly hot with the drink, food and enclosed hall and thus less fires had been made. It had the added benefit of allowing more of the guests to leave without having to wait on a particular Floo Network being vacated.
Harry relaxed, "Mmm, much, thank you," Harry said, not quite so in need of collecting warmth and allowed his fingers to unclench from his cloak.
You could already hear the music going – much louder the soft soothing piano during dinner – in the Grand Hall. Upon stepping into the room, he couldn't help but gape, a momentarily lapse in composure. It was decorated, clean and blooming with flowers, with a whole section along the wall filled with tables with an assortment of nibbles and of course, drinks. For those that actually wanted a specific drink or cocktail with a bartender behind the temporary bar made up for the night. It was opulent and gleaming, with marble flooring. With a section that was wood, presumably the 'dance floor' gold and green wrapped around the pillars, and fresh clean and white covered the tables with bows fancily laid out strategically.
"Come taste the food, its' amazing," Daphne said, as a group they moved together.
"You seriously aren't hungry right now, are you?" Harry asked incredulously, giving Daphne a look that suggested he thought she was nuts. He could see Vincent and Greg still being hungry, they had ferocious appetites that none of them could compare to.
"While the food was delicious, undeniably so, it wasn't exactly fulfilling," Daphne pointed out.
Astoria sniggered, "We hadn't had anything since breakfast, I think even father is regretting that one." If they were still hungry then there was every chance that their father was still hungry too.
"You look lovely this evening," Harry said smiling kindly at the younger Greengrass sibling. She was less confident in herself than Daphne. She was dressed in a baby blue dress, with flat blue shoes with a soft shawl around her shoulders. A small dash of make-up on, probably thanks to her sister.
Astoria flushed red, "Thank you, Heir Potter," she said a small dimpled smile on her face.
"Call me Harry," Harry told her, as always, but in any social situation she always referred to him as Heir Potter. She was a Strickler for the rules right now. She might relax given time, or perhaps she was afraid of screwing up. Her father was there, and he'd probably drilled it into her how to act this evening. "I don't stand on formality with my friends." And he did consider her a friend, even if she was a few years younger than him. She'd been one of the first people to befriend him, admittedly if Daphne hadn't been there, they'd have likely sat in an uncomfortable silence, both unsure of what to do.
"Harry is right, you do look very pretty," Draco told his betrothed, "I'm glad the necklace goes well with what you're wearing this evening." It was a platinum pendant with a guardian angel draped across her neck, the guardian angel had sapphire stones, which went well with her blue dress. The two moved down a little farther away from everyone.
Daphne grinned, but refrained from teasing her sister, remembering how excited she had been getting her first betrothal gifts, truth was, she had changed the colour of the dress when she got the pendant. She'd wanted to show off her 'beautiful gift' it was her second betrothal gift, it was little wonder she wanted to. Astoria had loved angels since their mum died, imagining her as one. Their father hadn't been able to dissuade her of the notion. She'd been so young, and they'd all been in so much pain. Astoria knew better now, of course, but guardian angels still held a place of safety and love in her heart. Draco knew this having grown up with them. He'd chosen rather well.
"May I have this dance?" Rene asked, holding his hand out towards his betrothed.
"Oh, I don't know, my dance card is rather full," Daphne declared, staring her betrothed down, as if trying to get a rise out of him. Plucking a few nibbles from the buffet table and eating them.
"Then perhaps you'll do the honour of sharing the first one, with me," Rene stated, much more confident with his betrothed than he used to be. As he had gotten to know her, he realized she liked to tease, not just him but nearly everyone actually. She was confident, beautiful, and the more time he spent with her, the more he realized he didn't mind marrying her, or changing his name to hers, in order to preserve her bloodline. The Greengrass bloodline. Not even knowing about the blood curse upon their line. It might not even effect either sister, or any child they have.
"Don't tease him too much, Daphne," Harry said, giving her a nudge, before leaning over and whispering, "He not only has to find his footing here if you're to marry, but people not having respect for him will make that impossible." Giving her a nod as if to say look around you. It didn't matter how many companies the Greengrass' had their fingers in, and any career of his choosing, respect truly was a different matter altogether.
"Because I'm teasing Rene?" Daphne asked, making a face, her gaze narrowing in on everyone.
"In public setting, in the first ball he's attended as your betrothed, everyone is watching," Harry whispered right back, "Not everyone understands your teasing, or sarcasm, they'll take it at the face of value." Shuffling away so he wasn't too intimately close to Daphne. Grinning as she ate more food from the table.
Daphne scowled, before huffing in annoyance, so that's what her father had been implying earlier. Truthfully, she hadn't thought of it that way at all. "How annoying," she grumbled.
"Tell me about it," Harry said with a grimace, "But everyone has to do it, be on their best behaviour."
Daphne sniggered, "I'd like to see someone trying to make you do anything."
Harry blinked innocently, "I don't know what you mean?" green eyes opening and closing owlishly.
"I'd love to dance, but maybe in a few minutes? I'd like to get to know my friends a little better," Daphne said, smiling in genuine happiness. "And to be honest I am absolutely stuffed from dinner."
"And it has nothing to do with the food you've just been sneakily eating from the buffet?" Harry said wryly.
Rene laughed, staring at Daphne as if she'd surprised him and a little confused, wondering just exactly what Daphne and Harry had been talking about. He was rather jealous of their closeness, not in an envious 'she's yours' sort of way, no, he knew that they were just friends. He was rather jealous of how well they knew each other; he could only hope that he'd come to know Daphne as well as Harry does.
"How are you enjoying your time at Greengrass Estate?" Harry asked.
"You know it's not called Greengrass Estate!" Daphne said exasperated, sounding repetitious.
"It is somewhere I can see calling home," Rene informed him, it was much vaster than his family home, even the biggest Villa his parents intended to give his older brother wouldn't compare. He'd certainly end up with a far greater fortune than his brother as well. "The weather…leaves a lot to be desired I've always wished to see snow, but once in my lifetime is enough."
"Other than snow there's not really much difference," Harry nodded, he knew a lot about France, the Lestrange's had originated from there once upon a time. It held a special place in their hearts, despite the fact they themselves hadn't ever spent more than a holiday there for a few weeks at any given time. They'd actually spent more time abroad in Egypt each year than any time in France.
"Exactly," Rene agreed enthusiastically.
"Excuse me," came a stiff voice, wanting to get around them.
"Oh, sorry!" Rene and Harry said politely apologetically, stepping away to allow them to get their food and drink.
"Come on, let's dance, this is one of my favourite songs!" Daphne had a squeal in her voice.
Harry grinned at Rene, as he was led away with a surprised look on his face, 'girls' he mouthed to the wizard who then nodded conceding his point.
"Do you realize that he's not who you think he is?" that stiff voice from before almost had Harry jumping.
Harry glanced to where the voice was coming from, the woman had her face scrunched up in distaste. As if she couldn't stand looking at him, as if he stank even from the other side of the table. "Excuse me?" or maybe it was her normal face, either way she looked very unhappy. He couldn't recall her being introduced, so he had no idea what family she was from. She had to be at least someone of importance or related to them, to be here tonight though.
"Rabastan, of course," she said coyly, "He's not who you think he is." Approaching him with predator's grace, her facial features changing as she did so, apparently, her face wasn't stuck that way. She mustn't like him very much; it became more obvious the closer she got.
"Oh? Is that so?" Harry asked amused, finding that statement hilarious. "And you know this how? Watch every second I spend with Rabastan do you?" he was barely able to stop himself laughing, doubly so when he noticed that 'Headmaster Slytherin' coming closer along with Barty. Lord Slytherin was slightly distracted however, by something on the dancefloor.
Bill was currently dancing with a girl, a pretty brunette who definitely didn't know what she was getting into. Nor did she notice the looks she was getting from the pissed off wizard. What, just because Bill had become Lord Weasley and worked hard to bring the Weasley name to mean something more than 'blood traitors' they thought they'd try their hand? Oh, no, and if she didn't get her hand off him, well, he would ensure that she didn't have a hand the next time to attempt it.
"Such a silly boy," she purred out, shaking her head, staring at Harry in mock pity. Circling him, so focused on him that she was oblivious to her surroundings. "So oblivious, oh, to be young again, so precious thinking we understand adult matters." Her freshly manicured finger stroking down his face and pressing into his chest.
Harry froze, her audacity left him reeling, the fact that it had happened in his home made it worse.
"He's using you, Potter," she said with a sharklike smug grin, pressing her nail further into Harry's chest. "Why else would a man like him be interested in a boy like you." her blue eyes boring into Harry's just waiting to see all her insults hit home.
His own home! He was simply put furious, once the shock of her audacity vanished, that anger bloomed.
The witch cooed, "Look at that anger, didn't you consider it at all? Not even a little? Rabastan is as dark as they come, and everything he's been accused of is true." her eyes gleaming with delight, "He belongs with someone who can keep up with him, admire him, not a silly little boy." unable to successfully hide her jealousy. She had been furious hearing the news, she'd had plans! Entire plans carefully and meticulously thought out.
With that anger, his magic stirred, he was at the end of the day, a teenager with an immense amount of magic. More so than a fourteen-year-old should have to deal with on top of puberty and normal emotions on top of all that. The only thing reigning Harry in was the fact that this was a party, everyone would see his actions and reactions. Harry didn't want to cause a scene, or worse embarrass Corvus.
The ignorant witch just continued her diatribe, as if she was wholly unaware of the danger, she was in. Unaware of the dangerous predator that Harry was. While Harry wasn't capable of doing a lot, right now, he had four very poisonous snakes at his back and one very rabid lion willing to do anything for him. Even kill.
One such snake was approaching and could feel just how unmoored Harry's magic was. They might not share the same Horcrux anymore, but they were very aware of the other. With a flick of his hand – not even bothering to unsheathe his wand – he had notice-me-not and cloaking spells so that nobody would be any the wiser. Lord Slytherin was far from stupid, he knew, he knew because instances like this happened to him. He'd been terrified of letting his magic get the better of him, of being expelled from Hogwarts and his wand snapped. Only to realize that wandless magic just didn't register, that it was the trace that caught teenagers out. Even not directly using magic from your wand, it still reacted to its presence.
Despite the spells being cast, Corvus and Rabastan were staring at the direction in which they shouldn't be able to observe. They knew something was happening, Corvus due to the fact that this was his goddamned manor! The only reason he wasn't ripping them down is because he could tell that it was Tom who had cast them. There was obviously a reason for it. Rabastan because he had kept an eye on Harry all through the night. When he wasn't with him, he was checking through the tracking rune he had on Harry's ring, which Harry knew about. After what happened…why the hell wouldn't he want a tracking rune on him?
It was a tracking rune that Rabastan had created, along with the rune Harry had created, but he'd altered it. So that the tracking could be done even through the strongest of wards. Although, there was a few he was unsure on, such as the Fidelius, he had no idea if the spell would work through that. Theoretically it should work, through the Fidelius but until it was proven it would remain only theoretical.
So even Rabastan knew where Harry was, and also knew he was behind wards since he couldn't see him. "Please, excuse me," he said, releasing her hand, giving a bow, "Thank you for the dance." With that he didn't even spare the blonde a second glance, as he moved swiftly towards where Harry was.
Lord Aurelius' Slytherin's pleasant demeanour changed swiftly the moment the spells were up. In mere seconds there was no mistaken you were standing before Lord Voldemort. They were both termed 'powerful' both had the ability to talk to snakes…but only one was concerned Voldemort and there was a reason for that. The power that exuded from Voldemort in no way eclipsed Harry's but it most certainly caused the witch to pale drastically behind her make-up.
Not that she truly got to comprehend just how utterly screwed she was, no, because pain hit her like a freight train. She wasn't even consciously aware of her complete and utter collapse on the marble floor. Body seizing constantly as if she was being shocked. Jaw locked
Lord Slytherin paused, his impassive gaze staring down at the witch, slightly surprised by Harry's vindictive and rather uncontrolled 'accidental' magic. She must have said something rather distressing or infuriating for Harry to react this way. He wasn't by nature prone to violence without due cause. Thus far, he hadn't seen Harry angry enough to do something like this, the goblets and juice containers didn't count, technically it hadn't been done to hurt, but the sheer shock and caused it. This was targeted, deliberate, and if he didn't know any better…not as accidental as it seems.
"My Lord?" Barty murmured quietly, taking the scene in, doing nothing as of yet. Gaze leaping from Voldemort, to Harry then to the Witch making small sounds of pain, judging by the look on her face it was probably a lot worse then figured. The witch he realized was a Crabbe if he recalled correctly, not of the direct line and very much dependant on her family's generosity.
Voldemort turned to face Harry, making his movement clear, as he made his hands visible so he didn't startle the teen. Cupping his chin, he slowly but firmly brought Harry's gaze on him, only then did the seizing stop. Not that he could see, but the sounds faded into nothingness. Nodding in satisfaction, he straightened up.
"Barty, please call upon Dowager Crabbe for a moment of her time," Voldemort declared, causing the woman to pale further drastically and whimper. "And escort Rabastan here as well." Weaving his magic with his hands, altering it from its original state to something he preferred. He'd get what happened later, but until then, they had a celebration to get back to.
Yes, he knew who she was. A Miss Camilla Crabbe, she's actually attended school with many of his follower and was age with Rabastan and the Rookwood's, Carrows, Dolohov's and many others. He was actually adequately magical, certainly a little more than the rest of her family, the youngest boy Vincent (they were cousins) was definitely looking to be the most powerful of the entire family. She wasn't far behind; he'd certainly got better looks than powers. She hadn't used that to settle down any, she was in her early thirties and still unmarried.
Barty obligingly nodded, muttering "Somebody's in trouble…" to the witch with a grin. Nobody ever wanted to piss off Dowager Crabbe. She was one stubborn witch, she might not be all powerful, but he was one hell of a conversationalist and had political power to boot.
Voldemort's lips twitched into amusement hearing that from Barty, he was slowly coming back to himself. It was…nice to hear some familiarity from the wizard. He'd taken himself too seriously except for a few occasions, this was at the risk of his ire as well. He'd been looking for guidance, love and acceptance, something he didn't get from his own father. Hopefully, he'd be able to live up to that expectation of Barty's now that he had regained lucidity.
Not that he wanted to be a father to Barty, no, but perhaps he could be someone Barty looked up to, emulated. Some people just needed someone to follow, and he had a lot of people who needed to follow someone. He'd picked them all for a reason, and he'd continue guiding them (as they remade the magical world to his vision) one that they could safely say they helped create.
Crouching down towards the witch, he waited until she glanced at him, just a second, was all it took before he struck lightening fast. "Legilmens!" and like butter he was falling into her mind, ripping through her flimsy and pathetic shields she had on her mind. Then again, next to him, everyone else did tend to have pathetic mental shields.
He didn't need to dig too deep to get a replay of exactly what had transpired between her and Harry just a few minutes earlier. Still, the witch writhed as if in agony, and considering the way the Dark Lord entered someone's mind, nobody would be surprised. It was like someone whacking you on the head with a sledgehammer whether you had mental shield's or not. Voldemort didn't do subtlety, nor quite frankly did he have the patience when seeking answers.
Voldemort had literally just stood up when they were interrupted by the witch who had been requested presence.
"What on earth is going on?" the raspy old voice of Dowager Crabbe demanded, staring aghast at the sight of her grandchild with her dress in such disarray! How embarrassing! "Get up at once! show some decorum child!" treating her as if she were a five-year-old not the adult she was. The witch herself was dressed entirely in black, in an old-fashioned frock that would have suited the time long gone by.
"Harry?" Rabastan asked, arching a brow as he made his way over to his betrothed. "Are you alright?" checking him over regardless of his reassurance that he was fine. Wanting to make sure himself that Harry was indeed just fine.
"Honestly I'm fine," Harry said, but he didn't stop Rabastan, why on earth would he stop someone who was blatantly showing they cared?
"What happened?" his gaze going from Harry's to Crabbe, who had finally scrambled to her feet, flushing a mortified red over the reprimand from her grandmother, the matriarch of the family.
Harry merely shrugged his shoulders, "She touched me," clenching his fists, "In my own home." Which really, really annoyed him more than anything else, any of her comments or calling him a boy and trying to demean him. He was used to bullies; he'd been dealing with them his entire life. Bullies tended to be insecure and easily dealt with…Dumbledore though hadn't just been a bully; he had been a real genuine threat to him.
Rabastan's grip tightened on Harry's shoulder, Harry very rarely let anyone touch him. Although, at least he didn't end up having a magical panic attack anymore. Well, at least he thought so, had she gone a step too far with Harry? She'd hounded him while he was at Hogwarts, in fact, she'd hounded anyone with a pulse and status. Surely, she hadn't attempted something so utterly stupid considering they'd just announced their engagement – which would remain unofficial until Harry and he actually gathered to celebrate their own party – it surely was highly unlikely. "Trying your luck with Harry?" if looks could kill, the witch would be dead. He'd come to terms with the fact a lot of people would be trying their luck when it came to his husband-to-be but never quite so soon.
Harry snorted, clearly not agreeing with Rabastan's deduction of what had going down. Either that or just wholly amused.
"Try the other way around?" Lord Slytherin intoned, "With your permission Lady Dowager I would like a few days to deal with her myself."
Camilla's gaze wrenched around, eyes wide, fearful and pleading her grandmother for clemency. Her dress ripped a bit and dirty, her hair a complete mess.
There was no pity, no sadness and certainly no determination in Dowager Crabbe's gaze. "She will be confined to her private quarters until such time." From what she could make out from the subtle conversations she'd offended Heir Potter not Lord Slytherin. They often thought of him as Lord Slytherin now, and not Lord Voldemort despite most of them actually knowing him for far longer as Lord Voldemort. Not getting to remain for the night and confined for days, well that was more than adequate punishment especially since she'll miss Yule.
"Very well," Lord Slytherin agreed, inclining his head.
"Do you wish to retire for the evening? We can come up with an excuse," Rabastan offered Harry.
"Are you kidding? I've been dying to speak to the wizengamot members for a long while now." Harry said, narrowing his eyes, "The cheek of them to think that I am unaware of the goings on regarding my estate. And of course, I've not had a chance to dance with you." he added grinning at him, truly unperturbed by what had just happened excepting the touching thing. As if he was going to let some jealousy harpy get in the way of his relationship.
"Very well," Rabastan said fondly, giving his hand a squeeze before letting go, giving Camilla the side eye as if wishing to pulverise her himself. He'd most definitely need to find out exactly what had gone down. Not tonight though, no tonight was still in full swing. Nothing was going to ruin Rodolphus and Sirius' night, or his fathers come to that.
Corvus was as happy as anyone had ever seen him, making his rounds around the room, dancing with a few Dowagers and generally making his presence known. Basically saying 'here we are' the Lestrange name strong as ever, that just because he was getting older doesn't mean he was feeble.
"Return home, if you are not in your rooms when we return, do not bother returning home," Dowager Crabbe declared, gaze boring into her granddaughter, disappointment surging through her. She was lucky she wasn't in the main line, and thus didn't require being married to continue the family. Otherwise, she would have been married by this, she would still have preferred it to be honest.
Camilla blinked rapidly, close to tears, understanding her grandmothers' threat all too well. The threat of disownment if she didn't do as her grandmother demanded. Surely her grandmother understood? The Lestrange's were powerful, not jut magically, but socially, politically and monetary. If she married one of them, she'd not only be set for life, but any child she had would be too, and powerful. This entire state would be theirs for the taking. It didn't hurt that he was a looker, they'd make a gorgeous portrait or picture together. She couldn't exactly tell her why here, so did what anyone else would have done in her situation, "Yes, ma'am," her life was entirely at her grandmother's mercy, had always been since the moment she was born. Her mother had died in childbirth, and her father had no desire to cut the apron strings, and content to live on the wealth of his family.
"I'll escort her out," Lord Slytherin decided, "You enjoy the rest of your evening, Vinzentia," knowing it wasn't likely that she'd have the ability to walk her to the wards. The Floo network was at the moment locked down, Corvus would release it when it was time for his guests to depart.
Dowager Crabbe sighed, "At least call me Enza if you insist on using any variation of my name," she told Lord Slytherin. Nobody called her Vinzentia, or Zen – only her husband had called her that – and mostly she was called Enza if she was called by her first name – so very rarely – most of her friends were regretfully no longer part of the world. She'd been born and raised in Italy until her engagement to John, her husband. Who had long since passed away, Merlin rest his soul, she couldn't wait until she joined him in eternal rest.
"Of course," Lord Slytherin agreed, gracefully, but as always, he'd continue using her full name. Lord Slytherin grasped Camilla's upper arm, and unobtrusively as possible escorted the woman out of the room.
"Shall we dance?" Rabastan asked, letting Harry decide what he wanted to do next.
But before Harry could open his mouth, someone intruded upon their time, the spells having been taken down, as they seamlessly slid back into enjoying the party.
"Well, well! Heir Potter! As I live and breathe! I've heard a lot about you my good lad." The wizard called out, a little loud due to his sozzled state.
"Harry, may I introduce you to Lord Leonard Bagman of the Bagman estate," Rabastan introduced them.
Harry stared at the elderly wizard; it wasn't very often many of the 'Lord's' were actually so old. Since they were passed on from generation to generation with the previous 'Lord' retaining control over the seats within the Wizengamot. Even more so of course, their child had no political aspirations whatsoever. "Well met," Harry replied, continuing to observe the wizard curiously.
"Are you keeping up to date on the wizengamot meetings, lad?" Lord Bagman asked, brown eyes shrewd a he observed Harry right back.
"It wouldn't do me much good if I didn't, now would it?" Harry pointed out wryly. Well, much aware of what the wizards and witches of the wizengamot actually thought about him.
"Nobody would blame you," Lord Bagman laughed, "You'll soon be taking your O.W.L's, they'll definitely suffer if you try to take on exams and Wizengamot meetings. A massive, massive and rather risky undertaking!" a little looser tongued than he normally would be.
"Which is why I've got someone taking on most of the duties," Harry pointed out patiently, holding his breath as much as possible. The stench coming from the wizard was rather…pungent. "Antonio has been…a perfect stand in,"
Dubious eyes met his, "And this new law you wish to see passed?"
Harry smirked wryly, "Which one? There has been two these past few meetings?" he'd need to try a lot harder if he wished to trip him up.
"Very good," Bagman declared, giving a little smirk, "But I was referring to the one you supposedly drew up."
"Supposedly?" he asked dryly, "Try did, thank you very much,"
"And why would a twelve-year-old care about Azkaban then?" Bagan demanded to know, wavering on his feet a little. Trying to recall when exactly Antonio had taken over the Potter seat within the Wizengamot.
Harry's eyebrows rose at the almost belligerent tone, taking a step back he stiffly stated, "I believe that this is something to be discussed when you're quite…sober, Lord Bagman. What use is it having this conversation when you'll likely not remember much tomorrow morning?"
"I do believe you promised me a dance," Rabastan gracefully added, leading Harry away, leaving a sputtering red-faced Lord Bagman.
"And you like to leave everyone speechless at your back," Rabastan said, leading Harry in the dance.
Harry grinned; it was hidden from view as he was tucked into Rabastan's side.
Neither one cared much for dancing, but they spent the rest of the night for the most part, lost in one another's arms. Dancing and talking the night away, it was almost as if nobody else was there.
A/n – yes, Harry's real parental grandparent was mentioned here, and yes, I'm aware that she's really Harry's grandmother. No, I'm not changing it, Dorea Potter will remain his grandmother in this. It's just a small mention, and not pivotal to the story. Oh, there was so much I wanted to put into the story, more Sheikh scenes, oh and Draco of course, but it's just not possible lol there are plenty other spots it can be used in 😉 still, again I would have loved to have been able to put them in here 😊 hehe! At least I managed to get one wizengamot member scene at the very least. And My gosh I can't believe it took 12K to get this chapter out! I absolutely refused to have two more chapters of the party so instead I was determined to end this chapter at the end of the night. Didn't get as many Wizengamot members in as I'd like but well, will we have Harry attending some while Hogwarts is out? Mostly due to the fact there wouldn't be many there neither Neutral or light wizards just the dark supporters 😉 well, I hope it was worth the wait! And sorry for the long wait was not feeling well for a bit! But here we go! R&R please and take care and stay safe xx