NB: (H) beside a name identifies a historical person.
Malfoy led Hermione down the corridor, never letting go of her hand lest she got lost. Who knew on a ship this large, and Hermione was slightly geographically challenged (at least in cities and rather large ships that she had not memorized a map for). They finally reached the Grand Staircase on the Bridge Deck level. She could hear the music from a piano drifting up from the Saloon Deck, two floors down. She was about to take her first step down the stairs when Malfoy pulled her back.
'Remember Gran…' she raised an eyebrow. 'de Selah. These people will talk; don't let them get to you.' Hermione noticed he actually had emotions. He was worried.
'Since when did a Malfoy grow feelings?' she asked, amused. 'I didn't think that it was in your genetic structure.' She noticed the worried look turn to confusion.
'Gen- what?' he shook his head, the worried look came back. 'Never mind. Now look, I hope you know what you are getting yourself into. From the stories I was told as a boy from Abraxus, these people are worse the then the best behaved purebloods at a Christmas soirée.' Hermione laughed.
'May I remind you that I've had to deal with the worst of your kind on bad day.' Hermione stressed 'your kind', referring to their earlier argument. She looked around to make sure no one was near, and luckily there wasn't. 'I've nearly died because of your kind. I'm sure a simple dinner, with muggles no less, will be a walk in the park compared to them.'
'If you say so, but don't blame me when these people tear you to pieces.' Malfoy shrugged and pressed on her arm to indicate that they move. After all it was not polite to linger upon staircases. Hermione felt unnerved that he was touching her, but it grudgingly admitted that it was necessary.
They made their way down the grand staircase the music became louder with each step that they took as they descended the two levels down to the Saloon Deck Reception Room. As Hermione and Malfoy made their way down the second to last set of stairs before reaching the landing, Malfoy lent over slightly to whisper to Hermione.
'You need to rest your hand on my arm now Gran… de Selah.' Hermione looked up at him and nodded, slipping her arm around his crooked arm, resting her hand on his forearm. Malfoy quickly looked down, raised an eyebrow but didn't comment as they walked down the final staircase to the Saloon Deck.
Once at the landing Hermione had the chance to look around and study the opulence of the room. The staircase was made of oak and had a seventeenth century William and Mary feeling to it. The end-post of the middle handrail on the staircase had a large oak candelabra, not the bronze cherub that she had expected to be there, nor had she expected the painting that was hanging behind her on the landing to be in the place of the ornate oak carved clock that was famously depicted in so many famous images.
During her musings, Hermione noticed that Malfoy was pulling her closer, in which she was starting to get more then slightly uncomfortable with. She looked up at him after giving him a not so gentle squeeze with the hand that was currently on his arm.
'Why am I walking so bloody close to you Malfoy?' she hissed at him under her breath. He turned his head to face her, his eyes conveying a small amount of surprise at her lack of noticing something slightly important. Never-the-less, he did answer her in the same hissing whisper.
'The staircases are smaller then what we are used to, if you hadn't noticed. And just so you know, I don't particularly like you being so close to me.' Hermione had a quick look around and did notice that the top of the curved staircases that it was narrow between the banisters at the top of the stairs then at the bottom. In fact it was so narrow on either side of the middle banister that it was more then likely to be uncomfortable for any Edwardian era couple to walk down those stairs and not just them, after all they were used to the larger staircases of Hogwarts.
Finally they reached the reception area of the ship. The first thing that Hermione noticed about the room was a panel opposite the stairs. It was a beautiful recreation of a tapestry from the Chasse de Guise, which she recalled seeing at the Louve museum in Paris when she travelled there with her parent's a few years before. It was beautifully framed in the white paneling on the walls. Whicker chairs dotted the room in small clusters with red cushions (in which she saw Malfoy wince out of the corner of her eye). There were people scattered about the landing, some of the women sitting down while their partners stood behind them. But everyone was dressed in their finest clothing, and not a single hair was out of place.
Malfoy escorted her to the right of the staircase where people were already heading in to the dining saloon. They stood to the side and observed the other couples for a quick moment. Malfoy quickly asked her a question, in which Hermione thought he should have asked before leaving the cabin.
'So who are we supposed to be eating dinner with other then the captain?' Hermione rolled her eyes.
'You should have asked earlier Mister Malfoy, and while you should owe me, we will be on even ground as I don't know anyone here, therefore I am hoping you will be able to lead us to the Countess of Rothes and her partner, assuming of course that you have met her.' Malfoy gave her a small glare before answering.
'Oh but of course Lady de Selah. Why I do remember that you did spend some time talking to her at Sotheby's but last Thursday evening.' Hermione shot him a glare in return, more due to the mocking that she could hear in the way he spoke.
'You know as well as I that I do not remember that night, for it was not me who was at that party and you well know it.' He gave a small smirk at her response, typical of the Malfoy smirk that he usually wore.
'Ah but you see my dear, these people do not know that now do they? Now come, we shall find the Countess.' With that he pulled her towards the dining room, obviously on the look out for said countess. Hermione mentally pictured disembowelling him when she got back to Hogwarts, however a nasty hex would do after dinner. She filed that thought away until after dinner.
While Hermione was in her musing, Malfoy had obviously garnered the help of one of the stewards and followed him to the dinner table that they were to be seated at that evening. She heard Malfoy say to her that she needed to stop acting like that blonde Ravenclaw girl that she was friends with. Again she mentally hexed him before filing that thought away and returning to the real world just in time to be introduced to the table.
'Good evening Ladies and gentlemen. I do apologize for any delay our arrival has had on dinner.' Said Malfoy, giving a charming smile to the ladies already seated at the table. The Countess and her cousin, Gladys Cherry (H), were seated at the table while Colonel Archibald Gracie and Mr. Janssen stood up as decorum dictated to greet Hermione and Malfoy. Mr. Janssen stepped away from the table to greet the pair.
'Good Evening Mister Malfoy. What a … pleasure it is to have you with us this evening.' He said, and Hermione noticed that he most definitely was not happy with Malfoy's presence aboard the ship.
'And Lady de Selah, how lovely to see such a beautiful angel again.' He reached for her hand, the one not currently attached to Malfoy, and gave but a light kiss upon her knuckles. Hermione tried not to visibly shy away from the man but there was something about him that she didn't like at all, something that reminded her of some of the Slytherin's. However she gathered up her Gryffindor courage and faced the man head on.
'Why thank you for such a wonderful compliment my good sir. However I do believe that such a comment does the angels of heaven an injustice for they are far more beautiful then I shall ever be.' She heard Malfoy snicker quietly and she gave him a quick pinch, hidden mostly to the others; however Mr. Janssen saw, gave a small glare but said nothing.
'Please, Lady de Selah, you need not be so formal with me, after all we are friends are we not? Call me Henri.' he asked, looking directly at her, making her feel more uncomfortable by the minute, fortunately for her, she was saved by Malfoy.
'While as generous as your offer is Mr. Janssen, I do believe that Lady de Selah would be more then comfortable sticking with what society dictates we name one another, after all it is a common courtesy. And while you may feel that you are entitled to be called Henri, Lady de Selah may think differently, is that not correct Lady de Selah?' asked Malfoy, managing to pull Hermione out of Henri's reach. Hermione gave a small internal sigh of relief as her hand was finally released from Mr. Janssen's grip.
'I do have to agree with Mr. Malfoy, Mr. Janssen; I do not believe that I am comfortable enough in your presence to call you by such an intimate name. Also I do recall that the use of such intimate names is reserved only for those who are engaged to be married or have been married, and not to be used in polite conversations between acquaintances.' She said. However, as Henri was about to reply any response was cut off by the Colonel.
'Ha! I like this young lady.' He exclaimed. 'Such a fresh of breath air to hear a women speak with such wit and poise. Why, but in the last few minutes alone, my dear, you have managed to do what do few have done before. Politely decline a gentleman's advance by using the book of manners while still being able to maintain your dignity, individuality and control of the situation.' The group gave a small laugh while Henri turned a slight shade of red about the ears, embarrassed about being turned down in such a public setting.
'I do believe that if anyone else were to try such a thing, quoting from a book while declining a gentleman's offer, it would not be as successful as Lady de Selah. I do believe that she is an expert at such things.' Said Malfoy, giving Hermione a look clearly showing that he knew that it would be true and that she had probably done so before. He lead her to an available seat away from where Henri was sitting, pulling out her chair before sitting himself, the other men followed suit.
'You and Lady de Selah are close then, Mister Malfoy?' asked the Countess, speaking up for the first time after their initial greeting. Malfoy turned to look at Countess and her cousin, assessing an appropriate answer.
'I guess you could say that we are more then just mere acquaintances, Countess. However, we are not so friendly as to be at such an intimate level. No, Lady de Selah and are I but future business partners.' The Countess raised an eyebrow in curiosity.
'Is that so?' she said carefully. Hermione stiffened slightly in her chair waiting for what she knew was coming. 'That is not what I heard. There is a rumour going around that the two of you are eloping and that you Mr. Malfoy have been disowned.' Hermione quickly stepped in to avoid Malfoy trying to 'fix' the situation.
'I can assure you Countess, that what you have heard are just that, rumours.' Hermione gave but a small glare over to the countess while remaining calm, something that she didn't think that she would be able to do in such a situation for a long period of time. 'And while their may be some truth to rumours I can say with confidence that Mr. Malfoy and I are not engaged, we don't plan to be engaged or ever plan to marry. I will not confirm or deny anything to do with Mr. Malfoy's family for that is his own business and is up to him to decide whether or not to divulge any information in that regards. What is the truth is that we both have similar interests in the United States of America and it would benefit both of us to be partners in this business venture. I would think wisely about your next words Countess, for they may be your undoing as I do believe that there would be some dirty linen of your own that you do not wish to air.'
The table sat quietly stunned at Hermione's not quite an outburst, before a small applause broke their thoughts. Hermione, Draco and the Colonel turned in their seats to see who was applauding, only to find that Mr. Ismay, Mr. Andrews and Captain Smith were standing behind them.
'I do believe that the Lady de Selah has outwitted you on this occasion Countess. Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen, I do apologise for being late, but I had to make sure that all preparations were ready for pulling into port in Cherbourg, in little but a half hour time.' Said Captain Smith as he and the other two men sat down at three of the remaining four chairs, signalling a passing steward that they were ready to begin their meal.
'Not at all, Captain.' Replied Janssen, obviously recovered after the blow to his ego from Hermione. 'After all, captaining a magnificent vessel such as the Titanic must not be an easy feat. I know I most certainly would not be able to do such a thing. You will go down in history for being the Captain of such a famous ship.'
Malfoy leaned over and out of the way of the stewards, who were presenting the first of the courses and managed to whisper to Hermione slightly.
'Suck up much?' Hermione had to stifle a small giggle at his words, for indeed she did think that Mr. Janssen was sucking up to the Captain. Unfortunately, they both didn't notice the looks that the Countess and Mr. Janssen gave out of the corners of their eyes down the other end of the table at their interaction. To the Countess the way that Hermione and Malfoy were both acting seemed to confirm the rumours that she had heard and to Mr Janssen, similar thoughts were going through his mind, but of a more sinister nature.
The Captain turned to engage in conversation with the Countess and her cousin, momentarily taking away her attention from the pair, while Hermione and Draco were talking to Mr Andrews about the ship as their first course arrived.
'She is a rather remarkable ship I must say Mr. Andrews and beautiful as well. The suites are very tastefully decorated.' Stated Hermione, in between small mouthfuls of her food.
'Thank you Lady de Selah, I am glad that she meets your approval.' He answered, smiling politely.
'It's not only Lady de Selah, that thinks your ship is remarkable, I too find her to be a marvel and I am sure that there are many others on board who think this as well. You have done a wonderful job.' Said Malfoy, not quite believing that he was agreeing with Hermione, however he rationalised doing it because he knew that they had to keep up appearances of being united and, dare he even think it, friendly.
Dinner continued on in a similar fashion, with polite small talk being made between all guests as each course was served. Although throughout the dinner Hermione was wondering when it would actually end as the meals, while of outstanding quality, kept coming. After the tenth course Hermione thought she could eat no more and Malfoy had noticed that she was beginning to slightly green. He leaned over and whispered to her, not knowing if he was trying to comfort her or mock her.
'One more course to go. Do you have room for ice cream, or shall you run out of the room?' he said giving a slight chuckle. Hermione huffed lightly and waved him away. She eyed the table out of curiosity.
The captain sat at the head of the table, his salt and pepper hair and beard not detracting from his general attractiveness and age. On his right was Janssen, a tall man, slightly darker in colouring then Malfoy, her hair more blond then white and while attractive there was an air around him that made her feel uncomfortable. The countess and her cousin sat next to him, both looking similar in the same dresses of red and blue respectively, however Hermione thought that the Countess's cousin, Gladys, looked the prettier of the two. There was a spare seat next to Gladys and to the left of Mr. Andrews, another attractive man in Hermione's opinion. He was seated at the opposite head of the table to the Captain and on Draco's right. Hermione sat next to him, in her unfortunate opinion, and sat next to the Colonel who was on her right. Mr. Ismay sat next to him and both men were dark of hair but Hermione preferred the Colonel to Mr. Ismay, his character was far more endearing to her and reminded her of Harry. She wondered why the men of the early twentieth century were more attractive then the men in her era.
Another dish was placed in front of Hermione, and true to what Malfoy said there was a small serving of French ice-cream. She internally sighed and picked up her spoon and slowly began to make her way through the dish. Finally, after around two hours the meal was done. The captain checked his pocket watch and stood up and the rest of the people followed suit.
'I do apologise for leaving such pleasant company but I much head back to the bridge. We are due to leave Cherbourg right about now and I must make sure that all goes well. Have a good evening Ladies and Gentlemen.' He gave a polite bow and the others returned it with a bow or curtsey of their own bidding the captain farewell.
'Shall we retire to the Smoking Room gentlemen while the ladies head to the Writing and Reading Room for an after dinner drink?' asked Mr Ismay, whom Hermione had not spoken to much that evening. Everyone agreed and made their way out of the dining room towards the aft grand stairs, a slightly less grand staircase, Malfoy accompanying Hermione while the Colonel was with the Countess and Gladys was with Mr. Andrews. The group made their way up to the Promenade Deck where the two rooms were located.
At the landing the two groups split up into their respective rooms but not before Hermione could give Malfoy one last glare as he made his way into the smoking room while the women headed down the corridor on the right of the staircase. Once in the room the women found seats near the window and sat with cups of tea hold in their laps after having been offered by the stewards.
'So Nastya, I can call you Nastya can't i? Tell me the real reason why your with the disinherited Malfoy, after all someone like you would never associate with someone from that family. Did you curse him or did he curse you?' asked the Countess, shocking Hermione. This was something she wasn't told by Claude.
The Countess was a witch.
Fact: The first class did indeed have up to 11 course meals on board the Titanic. Not only that but before dinner in the reception room many would have aperitifs – pre-dinner drinks sometimes served with cheese, pate or olives. In fact the menu for April 14th, 1912 – the last meal for many – included and alternating menu and they had a choice of sides.
First: Hors D'Oeuvres, Oysters.
Second: Consommé Olga, Cream of Barley
Third: Poached Salmon with Mousseline Sauce, Cucumber
Fourth: Fillet Mignons Lilli, Sauté of Chicken (Lyonnoise), Vegetable Marrow Farcis
Fifth: Lamb with Mint Sauce, Roast Duckling with Apple Sauce, Sirloin of Beef with Chateau Potatoes, green peas, Creamed Carrots, Parmenteir and Boiled New Potatoes.
Sixth: Punch Romaine
Seventh: Roast Squab
Eighth: Cold Asparagus Vinaigrette
Ninth: Pate de Foie Gras, Celery
Tenth: Waldorf Pudding, Peaches in Chertouse Jelly, Chocolate and Vanilla Éclairs.
Eleventh: French Ice-cream
Hi everybody! I am so so sorry that it has taken around two years to get back to writing this story. A lot of things happened in the last two years. Between university (two of them!), work, external research projects, planning a business, planning conferences, complete computer failure (please read as computer death), writing works to be published and life in general (which included another car accident two months ago, how unlucky!) this story did get pushed to the side. Never fear though because I do know where this is going and the plans for it are all in my head (thank goodness because I nearly lost it all when the computer died.)
Not only what is listed above has taken my time away but research for The Heart of the Ocean did take up a bit of my time as well, specifically looking up etiquette of the era, and my own etiquette/finishing school classes.
I was reading over the reviews, and noticed that people were still slightly confused about the Grandfather Paradox thing, don't worry I am as well, but I can't give too much away as to what is pertinent information to the story. If it would help, PM me with your email and I can send you a copy of the family tree that Hermione drew in Chapter Three (yes I did create the Malfoy-Granger family tree, using a combination of JK Rowling's Black family tree and the tree created in the story) actually I have a lot of diagrams and excess information that you probably wont believe, seriously you wont believe how much there is (statistics, deck plans, passenger and crew manifests, family trees, photographs of the ship and clothing worn that era, books on 1912 – the list goes on.)