Disclaimer: Harry Potter and all things related belong to J.K Rowling
A/N: I intended to do two chapters dedicated to Christmas alone, One for Christmas at the Weasleys house and one with the Malfoys. Just so people don't get confused.
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Chapter 7: The Days before Christmas
December twenty-third arrived with a fresh snowfall and massive weather warnings from the local muggle weather men. Snow fell in heaps, obscuring the view anyone had outside their windows. Muggles were already panicking, buying out grocery stores and preparing themselves for being snowed in. Wizards had no such worries, having magic afforded them some luxuries that muggles did not. Instead of panicking, the wizarding world continue on as it normally did during the holiday season. Parties were planned, visits to relatives via floo and apparition were continued and the Ministry of Magic prepared for the biggest party of the season; The Yule Ball. The Hogwarts Yule Ball, which was held during the tri-wizard tournament the previous year was named after this ball held by the Ministry.
Minister of Magic Cornelius Fudge sighed and ran his fingers through his greying hair. He had been Minister for fifteen years and he was looking forward to the coming evening. The Yule Ball, while open to anyone in the wizarding world was the time of year for him and his staff to make connections. It always seemed that the wizarding elite were more generous during this season, making huge donations to specific departments or to . Fudge needed that money and not just for the Ministry. For years he had been living comfortably and well off due to siphoning of donations from these elite. They knew it and he knew it, they allowed him to 'borrow' this money since it allowed these elite to make requests of the ministry and more specifically himself. Certain laws they wanted passed could be passed, or those they wanted to keep from surfacing would be dismissed from the discussion, it was a win,win situation. The only problem was people like Albus Dumbledore, always getting involved and offering his 'wisdom' on certain things. The Potters and the Weasleys weren't much better, bloody goody goodies.
Shaking his head, Fudge pushed the thoughts away, he had to much riding on the success of tonight to allow anything to go wrong. The Malfoys would be there along with the rest of the elite and Fudge's performance tonight would mark how much his ministry received and by extension himself.
Glancing up in surprise as the fire in his office activated, Fudge was surprised to see Lord James Potter's head floating in the green flames of the Floo.
"Ah Lord Potter, what can I do for you?" Fudge asked, trying to control the tightness of his voice.
"Minister Fudge sorry to disrupt your morning, but I needed to speak with you" James said his warm brown eyes flashing for a moment.
"No problem at all Lord Potter, go ahead" Fudge waved his hand in what he thought was a calm gesture, instead it appeared as if he were trying to swat a particularly annoying mosquito.
"I just wished to inform you that the Weasley family will be accompanying mine this evening to the Ball" James said, his tone brooking no argument.
"Lord Potter, you are aware that anyone within the wizarding world is entitled to come to the Yule Ball" Fudge said, shaking his head and looking displeased now.
"I know Fudge, but Arthur Weasley showed me a letter from you stating that you strongly encourage his family not to attend. I just wished for you to understand that the Weasleys are my friends, and will be at the Ball, as my guests" James said, sneering in a very Malfoy-like fashion at the minister.
"Good day to you Minister, see you tonight" James said chuckling as he withdrew his head from the flames.
"Damn" Fudge muttered, shaking his head, Lucius Malfoy had requested that the Weasleys not attend the Ball due to their involvement in his youngest sons recent health scare and now they were coming anyway. Raking his fingers through already messy hair he left his office, customary bowler cap in place as he went to find his Secretary and have her send an owl to Lucius explaining what had happened.
"Well there goes that swimming pool I wanted" Fudge muttered under his breath as he dictated what he wanted said to his Secretary.
"Lucius what's wrong?" Narcissa Malfoy asked her husband as he paced the large sitting room. The entire family was present as well as the Zabini family, the Parkinson family, the Crabbe family and lastly the Goyle family; they were currently waiting for the Notts, Greengrasses and the Bulstrodes to arrive.
"Fudge has just owled me saying that the Weasley family will be attending the ball due to the fact that James Potter wants them there" Lucius said his eyes instantly snapping to Draco and Adrian.
His two sons were sharing a small couch, surrounded by their friends. Draco's grey eyes snapped up and met his father's, anger being the only emotion readable in the grey depths.
"I thought you said they wouldn't be there" Adrian murmured his voice soft as he curled into his twin's side, seeking the protection. Behind close doors and in front of close friends these pureblood 'snobs' were anything but. A close knit group they acted as any other family, though sometimes with a bit more self control. Of course in the public eye they refrained and carried themselves in a proper manner befitting their ancient and pureblood status.
"I know Adrian, Fudge promised me they wouldn't come" Lucius said his heart breaking at the fear and hurt in his youngest sons face.
"Apparently when confronted with James Potter and his son Fudge turns into the bumbling idiot he's always been" Lucius growled as Lord Parkinson nodded in agreement.
"Don't worry Adrian, we won't let those damn Weasleys or Potter and the Mudblood near you" Blaise said, his voice harsh sure.
"I know Blaise" Adrian murmured, smiling softly at his friend. "Its just, they scare me, a-after everything that happened" He admitted.
Narcissa's eyes narrowed as she watched her child. She hated seeing Adrian like this and hated the fact that the ones who had done this to her child had gotten away with it with so little punishment. Lucius and her had both been livid, and intended to make the Weasley's life a living hell; getting Arthur fired had only been the first step in her and Lucius' plan to utterly destroy the Weasleys; after all, one didn't mess with a Malfoy.
"Don't worry love, you'll be with your friends and safe" She reassured softly, "No one will let them near you. I'll even bring some security along, if it will make you feel better" She offered, smiling at her son.
"Would you?" He asked, his own silvery-blue eyes shining with unshed tears.
"Of course love" She said, walking over to him and wrapping him in her arms tightly.
Despite appearances, Adrian Malfoy was not weak. He had been through hell and back in his fifteen years on this planet, and anyone who knew him would never look down upon the scared boy. His illness had made him this way, apprehensive, reluctant and even scared which was why all his friends and family were so protective.
"Come on" Pansy whined, her eyes flashing excitedly, "We have to get ready for tonight and we all know how long it takes Dray to do his hair" She teased.
"Hey" Draco growled, standing up and running at Pansy who let out a shriek and dodged away.
Laughing, the tension in the room defused as Draco and Pansy continued to bicker.
"Pansy's right Draco, you all should get ready" Lucius said, smiling lightly. All the families got ready together, it was a tradition, though usually they took turns hosting, this year it had been the Parkinson's turn, but due to Adrian's recent scare at Halloween, Lucius had asked if they could switch.
Slowly the group, minus Pansy and Draco whom were still yelling at each other and running around like five year olds, made their way to the twins' wing of the house. Each had their own bedroom but they were right next door to one another with a door between them. When younger, Adrian had had nightmares about being scared and would often climb into bed with his brother for security. For as long as they could remember that was the type of relationship the twins had, Draco as the protector and Adrian as well, Adrian.
"Come on" Adrian said, leading the boys into his room as the girls would use Draco's, much to his brother's chagrin. The other families had finally arrived and Millicent Blustrode, Astoria and Daphne Greengrass were currently getting ready with Pansy while Theodore Nott joined the other boys.
"What are you wearing tonight?" Blaise asked the others, he was draped elegantly over Adrian's bed. His dark hair was ruffled slightly and his tan skin seemed to shine in the room's artificial light. Blaise was of Italian decent and it was very easy to see in his hair, eyes and skin.
"Probably just a nice suit and some dress robes" Adrian said with a shrug, "Maybe just nice pants and a shirt, Father says that its not a big deal to dress nice if they're letting riffraff like the Weasleys and Potters in" He added smiling lightly at his friends.
"Why not wear your black dragon leather pants and a white shirt with the jacket you wore at Halloween?" Draco suggested from his position in Adrian's massive walk-in closet.
"Maybe...Yea that sounds good" Adrian agreed, smiling at his twin.
"What about you Dray?" Blaise asked, he had brought along a whole bag of clothes, as had the other boys though they were all waiting to see what the twins wore. Adrian and Draco were the most fashion conscious of the group and Draco was an expert in helping people to wear what looked best on them.
"Probably my black pants and a blue dress shirt under by silver-grey jacket" Draco said, pulling the outfit from Adrian's closet where he had stashed it.
"Smashing" Theo said, laughing lightly. "What should we all wear then?"
Soon a group of well dressed children trouped down the hall to see if their parents approved. Where Draco was elegant despite his aggressive demeanor, Adrian went more of the 'hard core' route, though the style worked on him.
"You all look wonderful" Narcissa Malfoy gushed along with the other pureblood women. She was wearing a low cut, though not indecent silver-blue dress that swept down her thin frame and fanned out around her feet. A fox fur shrug around her shoulders and some elegant diamonds finished the ensemble. Lucius was dressed to match his wife in black pants and a silver-grey shirt much like Draco's jacket. He had on a wool coat though it fell to just above his knees and his hands clasped a familiar snake-topped cane.
"Are we ready then?" Lucius asked as Pansy and her female companions came bouncing down the stairs looking every bit the regal, pureblooded young women that they were.
"Ready" Lady Nott said with a small smile as she gestured for the others to proceed.
"Are we flooing?" Blaise asked his mother, who was flying solo that evening. Lady Zabini was notorious for marrying wealthy pureblooded men and then her husbands would mysteriously pass away, leaving her heaps of money. She often met her next husband at events such as these. The beautiful Italian woman smiled at her son fondly, Blaise was her pride and joy, her heir since his father died, and she would do anything for him.
"Yes darling" She said with a small smile. "You look wonderful" She added. Blaise smiled, he was dressed in a pair of black slacks and a blood red silk shirt paired with a black dragon skin jacket.
"Thank you" Blaise said, slipping his feet into his black dress shoes. All the boys wore these, except Adrian who had black dragon skin boots which went to his knee.
The Ministry of Magic's Yule Ball was in full swing when the group of pureblood elites arrived. They were late, as usual since they arrived when they chose, not when requested. A team of men accompanied the families, they were the personal security wizards, hired by Narcissa and Lucius Malfoy to watch their property and family.
"Don't worry darling, no one will do anything to you" Narcissa said softly to Adrian, her hand sitting gently on his shoulder, offering comfort and love.
"Thanks" Adrian whispered back, his eyes wide as he took in the sights before him.
The Ball was held in the main atrium of the Ministry, it had been set up special for the event. The fountain for was decked out in christmas colours and twinkling farie lights. The normal bare room was expanded with the elevators closed off for the night. A massive table of house elf provided food was up against one wall, and many small tables were set up around it. Each table had a name on it, indicating the family who was to sit there. Opposite the tables and food was a large dance floor, as this was after all, a Ball. Beside the dance floor was a small stage where the various bands would be preforming that evening.
"Shall we find our table?" Lucius asked, glancing around the room. He knew that the other families would be set up around them, as per his request to Minister Fudge. His mouth curled disdainfully as he noted the Weasleys sitting not far off and with them the Potters and their friends.
"Disgusting" He snorted as he walked past, leading his family to their own tables further away. He noted how James Potter's mouth curled as he attempted to say something to him, though he just ignored it. He could hear Potters friends; Black and Lupin making comments about him and his 'spawn' as they called Draco and Adrian. It angered him immensely but he knew better then to react.
"Ah, here we are" He said, seeing the name 'Malfoy' written elegantly on a white card. Besides them was the Zabini's and Notts, Sharing a table as they were both small families. On the right were the Parkinsons, and behind them sat both the Crabbe and Goyle families. Greengrasses were a little further away, though not by much, and all in all he was content with the arrangements.
Adrian and Draco gracefully fell into their seats with practiced movements that hinted at years of training. Both glanced around, relieved to see their friends nearby, especially since walking past the Potters and Weasleys had been a little trying. Adrian caught Blaise's eye, and the boy offered a kindly smile before returning his attention to his mother who was prattling on about the eligibility of men in the room.
"Would Lord Malfoy and his family be liking dinner this evening?" A small voice sounded beside Lucius's elbow. Glancing down the man found a well dressed house elf in what looked like Fudge's house colours.
"The man is using his own elves?" Narcissa asked, raising her eyebrow, obviously the woman was not impressed. Refraining from shrugging, as it was not an appropriate response when in public, Lucius settled for an arched eyebrow and returned his attention to the elf.
"Please" He said, glancing at the small menu the table offered, "I'll be having the caramalized duck with peppers and bring a bottle of the chateau de monte wine" He murmured.
"I'd also like the duck" Narcissa said, sniffing lightly, "But also bring me a small side salad without tomatoes" The elf nodded and turned its attention to the boys.
"Steak, medium rare with potatoes and a butter beer" Draco said, eyeing the menu curiously.
"Same, but rare and salad instead of potatoes" Adrian said, also wanting to try the steak on the menu. The elf nodded and disappeared with a loud cracking noise.
"Hmm, not the best menu" Lucius commented, it was very limited.
"Its so people like the Weasleys know what to eat Father" Draco drawled, "I mean if it was a proper menu or french they'd have no idea" He said, his voice carrying easily to the table of red heads not far off.
"True, I guess the Minister had to take that into account when he was preparing the feast for tonight" Lucius agreed with his son, also allowing his voice to carry over to the other table.
"If its not up to your standards Lucius, perhaps we can floo to France for a proper meal tomorrow" Narcissa said, "I wouldn't eat half of this swill, and I do so love christmas at our estate in Nice" She said with a soft smile.
"Wonderful idea my dear" Lucius said, knowing that this bragging of wealth would very much bother the Weasley family.
"Stupid gits" Ron hissed under his breath, "Talking about us not knowing what to order, what rubbish" He snapped, the red head was obviously angry.
"I know Ron, they're being extremely rude" Hermione agreed, shooting a glare in the Malfoy's direction.
Harry sighed, shrugging his shoulders a bit as Ron vented and Hermione sympathized. He was aware of his godfather, Remus and his Dad playfully remembering all the awful things they had done to Severus and Lucius during their Hogwarts years it was amusing.
"Remmy do you remember that time outside the Quidditch locker rooms?" Sirius was trying his best not to burst out into loud, bark-like laughter. "Gods I remember that" James said, smirking. "Wasn't that when Sirius managed to hit them with that spell that turned Lucius blue and Snivilus green?" He asked for clarification.
"Yea" Sirius said, chuckling softly, biting his lip to once again keep from laughing.
"Dad did you really do that?" Harry pipped up, having been drawn into the conversation.
"Yea Harry, we did lots of things to those slimy snakes" James said a small chuckle. "But nothing major, well except for the Whopping Willow Accident" He shuddered. Harry sighed, he knew what they were talking about, that was the incident where Sirius had tricked Professor Snape into going to the Shrieking Shack, where he had accidently run into Remus who was in his werewolf form. If it hadn't been for his dad, Snape would be dead or at least another wolf.
"Yes Molly, James and I will be there" Lily laughed, her green eyes sparkling as she reassured her old friend.
"We said we would come for Christmas and we will, stop fretting" She brushed a lock of silky red hair from her face.
"We don't mind about your finacial problems you know that" She said, placing her hand on top of Molly's in reassurance.
"I know dear, but Arthur has been so concerned. Working in Diagon Alley at the Pet shop? It's just embaressing for him" She said, shaking her head and sighing.
"Don't worry Molly, Arthur will get a better job soon, this is only a temporary set back" Lily said in a cheerful voice.
"Dad, what is this food?" Ron hissed, not wanting the Malfoy's to realize they were right and he really did have no idea what to order.
"You'll like this Ron" Arthur said, before helping the others choose what to eat. Once they placed their orders, the family quieted, talking softly as they savoured their food as it arrived.
"Ladies and Gentleman" Cornelius Fudge, Minister for Magic stepped onto the stage.
"Your Ministry thanks you for coming to our annual Yule Ball" He smiled at the scattered applause. "Now that you have dined, I'd like to open the floor for our dancing and socializing aspects of the evening. We have many groups preforming tonight and I'm sure you'll recognize at least some" He giggled a bit, obviously already indulging in the fire whisky.
"I wish you all a Happy Holidays from us at the Ministry" With that he bowed out and the Weird Sisters, an internationally famous wizarding rock group took the stage.
The dance came to an end and both groups departed for the evenings. The Potters, minus Harry, Sirius and Remus headed to the Potter home in Goderic's Hollow, the Weasleys accompanied by Harry and Hermione to the Burrow.
"See you at Christmas Mum and Dad" Harry called as he stepped into the floo behind Arthur. Waving they parted ways.
Meanwhile the Malfoys and their friends were also heading separate ways for the night.
"See you all at New Years" Blaise called as he and his mother head off back to the house, followed closely by the Notts, Greengrasses, Parkinsons, Crabbes and Goyles, though they all went to their own home.
"Are we really going to go to France for the Holidays?" Draco asked his mother as they headed towards an unused fire place a bit further down.
"Yes, I believe we are" Lucius answered, smiling at his wife. "I think it would all do us some good to get out of England for a bit" He said with glinting eyes.
Soon enough the family was back home. Thankfully the night had been uneventful, besides a small incident in where Ron had bumped into Blaise and a small argument had ensued before the adults and security were able to stop it. All in all, Adrian was fine, although pretty exhausted and already being tucked into bed by his mother.
Returning downstairs, Narcissa ordered the house elves to begin packing as the family would leave for France in the morning.
"He okay?" Lucius asked as Draco bid his parents good night and headed off to his own room.
"Sound asleep, but he appears to be fine" Narcissa said, smiling lightly and curling into her husband's side.
"Good, I'm glad he was able to handle the Weasleys tonight, it should help his confidence" Lucius said, shaking his head lightly at his wife.
"Shall we head to bed ourselves?" Narcissa finally suggested a few hours later.
"Might be a good idea, we did tell the boys they had to be up early" Lucius said, albite reluctantly.
"Come on my dear, tomorrow we'll be in France" Narcissa said with a small chuckle.
Both Malfoy adults headed to their own wing of the manor, reminding the house elves to make sure the family was up in the morning.