Antonius Malfoy

“South America,” Phineas answered. “Peru and Argentina mostly, and typically the more remote regions. Breathtaking, really. You must visit if time and commitments allow.”

Of course they wouldn’t, even for a wizard who could relocate at will. Someone like Antonius Malfoy was certainly as busy as Sirius. Though Malfoy did not have a family tying him down. Still, Phineas couldn’t imagine him being very able to travel.

“Until the season is over, perhaps longer if there is need of me here. But there are more of the Americas to explore. The northern territories have fascinated me for years, and I’d quite enjoy a visit.”

There he went, yammering on about his freedom. But was it any secret that Phineas was very much the exception to his family’s rules? Whether Malfoy approved or not, there was no reason to deflect. He wasn’t going to be married anytime soon, at least.

Antonius did his best to not react to the mention of Gladys. He was starting to believe that everyone in the bloody town was acquainted with her. His left hand went to loosen the cravat around his neck. The idea of commitment to any woman gave him a feeling of suffocation. He couldn't help it. "I am only financing the broom. It is the best in the market and I will make a profit from it." He said shrugging softly. "Surely, you of all people, could not have fallen for others' foolish suspicions of us courting?" He nudged Phineas should in jest. Well, the topic was absurd. "You can only imagine your brother's face upon learning of the rumor." Antonius didn't have to say Sirius. Phineas would automatically know which brother he was talking about.

"The Malfoy family gets on as well as yours. Thanks to Merlin." Antonius replied without much emotion. There were no deaths, no marriages, nothing to report on. "What can one say about family, we can't call them a burden because we only have the one. But, I, as well as you know that is a particularly -trying- time of year." When Antonius looked up from the table, as if on cue, a few ladies sitting to the right of them smiled over at them. It was rather forward of them, no ladies in their society would be seen at this pub nor at this hour for that matter. 

Lysandra laughed at Malfoy’s comment on her being a true Ravenclaw, how she would love to tell him that the sorting hat’s first choice for her had been his very own house, Slytherin. There was nothing Lysandra loved more than proving people wrong in their assumptions about her. But Lysandra thought better than to say her thoughts out loud, the hats choice for her had always been her favourite little secret, and she had no plan of disclosing it now. Plus, who knew, maybe it was a very Ravenclaw response, she had spent seven years of her life learning and living with them after all. Maybe she was more of a Ravenclaw than she originally thought.

Lysandra listened with interest as Malfoy talked. Oh how she had missed these types of conversations, as nice as her aunt was she could never stimulate Lysandra in this way. “I fear you may have me trumped in that respect Mr Malfoy, you are right, artwork does not have to end, but that is part of the beauty of a novel. It ends, like everything else in the world it has a conclusion. However I feel it is a very sad world where, just because something ends, there is nothing left for it. It’s the possibilities for the story that make it immortal, the constant retellings and interpretations, the rumours and theory’s that surround the story after its conclusion. I don’t think anything is truly over until one stops thinking about it.” Lysandra said, resisting the temptation to turn her gaze away from the cave to view Malfoy’s reaction. “So, a good story, much like a good art work must remain in one’s mind after it has ended. It then becomes a matter of human subjective wether an art work or a novel is most likely to live on in your mind.”

Lysadnra laughed at his mention of a nonfiction novel in comparison to art “there I think we can both agree, although I regret to say that I will probably still prefer to look at art than read a potions book, other non-fictions may capture my attention a bit more, but not by much. Then again, when have humans gone for that which is most beneficial for them?”

“Oh dear, you’re asking me to name a single genre?” I am afraid I will probably disappoint you. I like a good love story as much as the next person but I find that a majority of heroines do naught but annoy me. Emma for example I want nothing more than to jinx the main character. Plus I find muggle novels so…. Ignorant. Almost all of their problems could have been fixed with the simple addition of minor magic, which makes it very un-relatable for me. Although I will not deny that Jane Austen really is a beautiful writer. I do love some of the more gothic muggle books, Dracula, for example, is a hilarious look at how ignorant muggles are to what vampires are truly like.” Lysandra stopped, not wanting to speak to much on the types of books she read. “What about yourself, where would you tend to look when it comes to novels?”

Lysandra realised how hungry she was as Mr Malfoy asked if she wished to go get something to eat. “That sounds perfect”

The buffet they walked into was absolutely huge. Lysandra smiled at the display already spotting exactly what she would want on her plate. Her smile only widened at Malfoys comment “not really, I like to have as varied a plate as possible.” When they had both selected their own plateful of food Lysandra turned to him “so how does the great Mr Malfoys occupy his time? When not at art galleries of course.”

Antonius was more than impressed to hear Lysandra speak of subjective perspective. By large, Purebloods were not to speak so radically. There world was black and white as it came because of blood politcs. There was no room for subjectivity concerning superior wizards. A Half-Blood or Mudblood would never compare in skill even if they were educated at the same school. It was almost daring of her to be so open with her thoughts, especially when others could be listening to her. The only way that she could shock him again would be by displaying an interest in the Dark Arts. "You speak well and freely for someone of your age." He compliment, his eyes narrowing and drew closer to her. He wanted to warn her and tell her that not everyone would be as forgiving about radicalism, but the words never left his tongue.

"Is it safe to assume that you were never particularly close to your parents?" He asked wondering aloud. His parents surely would have hexed him on the spot for speaking of subjective perspective. "I do not mean to intrude, simply I find your thoughts about human nature interesting. You lack the youthful idealism that I am used to of Hogwarts' graduates."

Antonius noted that she never answered the original question. It seemed pecuilar to him that she did not gush about her favorite section in the libary. If he were to send her a novel as a present, he would not have the slightest idea as were to begin. A deep chill passed over Antonius as Lysandra spoke of Muggle books. Sirius and his parents would instantly snub her for such a mention. He should as well, he realized and looked away from her. "I do not peruse dirty literature." He replied sullenly, the joints in his neck feeling stiff. "It should come to no surprise that those animals know nothing about vampires. They lack an education."

"I will only ask you once to never comment again on such unsanitary reading material." Antonius scoffed. "You may have not meant to offend me, but you have deeply. I cannot imagine that you are naive enough to think that this is a resposible topic in consideration to my name." If Antonius would have ever brought home a Muggle book, his parents would have made sure that his eyes had bled for days. Back in school, they artfully managed to de-enlist from any cources on Muggles. Sirius' father Phineas surely understood their concerns in a meeting with him. If it were only up to the headmaster, classes on Muggles would not be taught at all.

"Do not ever forget your place in our society, Miss Yaxley." He warned. "The moment that you do, all of this is easily taken away and second chances are close to nonexistant."

After the silence that passed as they collected food for their plate, Antonius was not too sure if she was patronizing him with her question about his free time. "Well Miss Yaxley, to answer your prior question before our mixup, I enjoy a good book. Anything to do with the arts... Biographies of my favorite musicians and artists. They all have lived better than fiction. Plays. It is most interesting to note missing scenes in the theatre. I subscribe to all of the periodicals, naturally, concerning the arts to flag anything I may want to purchase for the vast Malfoy galleries in the main manor."

Initially, Hesper followed his lead idly, bored -and slightly annoyed- at the prospect of being taught by a man no more than three years her elder (she had to resist rolling her eyes at his comment of ‘being afraid’ of him, knowing if he so much as tempted her, she could have him screwed up into a matchbox). But, as they dropped into the rhythm of the music, Hesper found she was actually having to concentrate on not leading, until she finally let herself go and be submissive to the moves of Mr. Malfoy.

Despite herself, it was not that unpleasant. Certainly more pleasant than dancing with that goon of an old lady. But that was easy to explain - the old lady was frail and in desperate need of support, whilst Antonius could very much hold himself and Hesper along with him. Dancing with Sirius was far far different than with Antonius, as Sirius had a softness to him. Perhaps he was worried about hurting Hesper or simply didn’t know how to hold a woman. Whichever reason, Sirius allowed Hesper to lead, whereas Antonius was firmer, more dedicated to take the male persona in the dance.

At her surprise, Antonius spun her, causing her foot to land clumsily on the other. Her eyes widened as the inevitable falling over came - but it didn’t. As quick as a cricket, Antonius’s hands saved her from the disastrous fall. Hesper’s cheeks coloured in embarrassment, and straightened herself up. She could handle the essential touching of hands and shoulders in dance, but anymore than that had her upset. “Yes - yes a rest would be ideal.”

Hesper slowly made her way to the window, keeping pace with Antonius, then used her wand to pour water from the jug residing on the ledge into two glasses. She took seat on the cushioned window seat. “Mr. Malfoy, I must admit I am obliged to swallow my words. You… you dance graciously.” She dipped her head, and held a small part of her dress outwards, as if she were straightening it out to stop it folding, to adapt a curtsy in the sitting position. “It was a pleasure.”

“My, I hear Sirius talk endlessly about you. With the way he speaks of you, I was sure you would have a halo sketched above your head. I am comforted to know the friends he obtains are just as gentlemanly as Sirius himself.”

She crossed, then uncrossed her ankles in a playful manner, deciding that Antonius’s company was maybe not that dreadful to put up with, and that was a relief as she had spent many months bored to death in Valhalla. The thought of having even one person that wasn’t torture to converse with in Valhalla, even if it were only on the occasion they spoke, put Hesper in a brighter mood.

Antonius paid special attention to the coloring of Hesper's cheeks. It suited her age well. She looked quite lively and less uptight blushing. He followed her lead, but decided to stand as she took a seat; thinking that they had spent enough time in close proximity in such a span. Her chaperones continued watching them from a distance, and they were no doubt hanging onto their every word. He needed to be careful about his conversation topics, not wanting any reports about him to get back to her parents. There was nothing more annoying than a fabricated scandal without sin.

As Hesper complimented his dancing skills, he tried to hold down a smug smirk. Certainly Antonius knew he was an expert dancer, his grandparents had sure of that. Sirius' bride to be would only approve by practicing with a better partner. His parents had always lectured him, saying that one could not learn if they were always 'the best' in the room. One had to surround themselves with their equals or better to actually move forward in life. He mused that marrying into the Black family would open countless of social doors for Hesper. He smirked without relectuance at his next thought. Obviously getting engaged to Sirius had brought him into her life and she was already reaping the benefits. Antonius wondered if Sirius would even care to dance for enjoyment with her. Perhaps with a few drinks in his system, but was he even allowed to spirits around Hesper? The Blacks had been terribly strict as of late, probably not wanting him to muck up the future union. If it was not for their late night jaunts then his best mate's life would be as dull as it could get.

Hearing Hesper speak of Sirius broke his musings and Antonius tried to not show his dissapointment of this new knowledge. He did not like that Sirius talked about their friendship. None of his many siblings had ever commented about their association in particular, so what made his soon to be wife any different? She would share his bed with him, he figured fleetingly. Hesper would be a part of Sirius' life that no one else could access. So bizarre that it had only occurrd to him just then!

"Halo, Miss Gamp?" Antonius remarked cooly, all emotion leaving his face. "No wonder you acted so stunned as I entered the room." It had been act the entire time, her pretending to not recognize him. All women were the same in their cunning design at birth, weren't they? It digusted him.

Antonius turned away, no longer interested in her company. She was just a girl. "Next time we meet, I would hope our greeting will be less callous. You should know by now how much Sirius' friendship means to me." He tilted his head to glance at her for a passing second. He was acting too brash. He needed to ammend his statement. "It would be pleasent if we became friends, as well." He added softly. "I suppose."

After a particularly stressful encounter with his father—one that centered, as usual, around marriage and obligation—Phineas found himself at the public house Sirius and he had once before visited. As a largely Muggle establishment, there was the distinct chance he would remain anonymous, which, now more than ever, he greatly desired.

Had he not already ordered his first drink, he may have left once he saw Antonius Malfoy sitting alone at the bar. There was, if not bad blood, at least some discomfort between them. At least for Phineas. Or perhaps this was merely the discomfort of familiarity he was currently hoping to avoid at the bottom of a bottle of firewhiskey.

He had, however, already paid, and Malfoy had possibly seen him. To leave would be rude. And Phineas was, first and foremost, English.

Damn obligation…

Turning as he was addressed, the surprise was evident on his face to see Phineas. "Mr Black." He replied equally formal, however thinking they should be using given names. He had known the younger man nearly all of his life, although they were never particularly close without Sirius. "Certainly." He agreed. "I believe there are still open booths in the back."

Antonius, always the introvert, did not want to deal with another scandal from an enthusiastic eavesdropper if they continued to converse at the bar. Walking over to the booth with a new drink in hand, he looked over at Phineas in wonder. "Is this surely the first time I have seen you since your travels abroad?" He asked with a head tilt. "Remind me again, where was it you ran off to this time? Of Latin origin?"

Hesper arched a perfect eyebrow. He was looking forward to hear her play in the future? When she ‘was ready’? If it weren’t for that condescending ending, Hesper would have bitterly laughed and wished him to cease being so ridiculously forward as she would never perform for him, but his last words irked her. He spoke to her as if she were a child, which technically she was in his perspective, and she fully resisted being spoken to as anything less than like an adult, as her father always told her she was just as mature as an adult despite only hedging on the edge of 17 (the irony of it was that Antonius had been the first person to propose she do something when she was ready, even with such a trivial thing as playing the piano, yet those words had yet to be uttered in regards to her marriage). And it was for this reason, that she suddenly wanted to prove herself to Antonius that she was just as much, and no doubt more, an adult as he.  ”Perhaps on a rainy day.” She muttered in nonchalance, knowing full well she would most definitely play for Antonius some day.

It appeared this man’s forte was insulting her; he was now insulting her dancing? Worst of all, he didn’t even seem to notice he had done so. Hesper pursed her lips at his atrocities. As he continued talking, Hesper had to consciously watch his face neutrally, so disgust wouldn’t cross her features.

She took his hand, with a harshness she had intended -but failed- to conceal. And without a word, she drew herself closer to him, her eyes staring unwavering into his, as if she were challenging him. A silent challenge, of course, as she would deny to her grave, if he accused her of such, that she would be so bold to behave like the rowdy men in bars do when they fight. After all, Hesper intended always to be viewed as a good, submissive, dainty young lady - as her father insisted she should always be-  but if she could assert some dominance over a situation with eyes that could threaten, lie and kill, by Merlin she would use them.

“Oh, please, Mr. Malfoy. Do teach me.” She spoke with an exaggerated eagerness, mostly to delight herself with her mischievous mocking. Perhaps it was the adrenaline from the temper he had brought out of her, but Hesper had not even spared a thought that she was now in the hands of a strange man - something that would have terrified her a month ago.

He may have been half a foot taller than her, but his blue eyes still blazed beautifully and their clarity was not compromised from the distance. Hesper hoped she should come across a piece of jewelry with that sharp colour to wear, as she was rather fond of it. She wanted to be cold and reserved from Antonius, but his eyes, regrettably  made that very hard to do. She almost cracked a smile when he winked.

Her grasp on his hand and the pull of her eyes caught him off guard. No one, especially not a high-bred socialite, had ever looked at him like that before. He bit his bottom lip, willing himself to not react to her. She would have to do much more to unhinge him. He was not set on offending her than simply eager to ruffle her and to him, there was a distinct difference between the two. She was practically melting in his arms, but he knew she was not being fresh with him. She was making a mockery of the situation. He remained stiff, determined to actually teach her to dance properly. Sirius did not deserve to be wed to a second-rate dancer. It would be humiliating, considering the scrutiny their marriage would be under in the press.

Looking down at Hesper, Antonius' breath caught. She was exceedingly beautiful now that he had a good look at her. Her hazel eyes shined in the light and he found her dimples incredibly endearing. He wanted to press his thumbs against them, he wanted to sink into her skin. He looked away from her, the moment that she instructed the pianist to play. "I will more than adequately sweep you off your feet." He promised in a clam voice as he listened to the beat of the music. "Pfft. I would not dare to marry a woman that was not quick on her feet." He muttered arrogantly and closed the extra foot of distance between them.

"Ah, I was hoping Miss Gamp and I would waltz." He stated loudly over to the pianist, not bothering to part from his partner as he waited for a different song to play.

"This is a smooth and quite popular dance for us in London. It is important for you to master it." He explained to Hesper. "A dance that you need a male partner to learn best with. You will not be jerked around by your partner, therefore you must not be afraid of me." 

"The easiest way to remember the dance is that we will be making a box shape with our feet." He stated, looking down at their feet. "Our steps will mirror each other in a gentle fashion. As I take one step forward with my left foot, you will be taking one step backward with your right. Ideally, when performed by a confident partner, you will quickly stop thinking about your feet and simply react to me." 

“My aunt is residing in oxford, very close to the Muggle University. She used to live in the family estate but she found the country life dull.” Lysandra was very interested in hearing Mr Malfoy talk of the way in which the older Mr Malfoy held the estate. Being an only child she had not had much experience with the way estates passed on from father to son, although she knew the black family’s case was not unheard of she hadn’t expected the Malfoy family to have a similar arrangement. It seemed that there was just as much family pressure on men to marry as there was on woman. The added social pressure that woman had however convinced Lysandra that woman where still in a much more desperate hurry to marry themselves off.

“Do not apologise, you had no way of knowing we were so close to each other.” As Lysadra spoke she noticed the icy looks she was getting from the other gallery goers for blocking the door, she was extremely relived when Antonius offered her his arm and led her out of the way of the entrance. It took no more than a second for them to be flocked by journalists taking photographs. Lysandra felt relieved to see them there. One of the biggest reasons she had come tonight was to show the blacks she ran in the same circles as them, and although gossip was useful it had nothing on the power of the media. She gave a smile and made sure she looked as appealing as possible in all the photos

When the photos were finally over they continued through the gallery. “Yes, Slytherin does still like to keep to themselves, although I think that is more down to the other houses than their own wants. I certainly didn’t have any problem developing friendships with any of them.” Lysandra couldn’t keep the smile of his face when he began asking her about her views on art. She was always eager to show people her opinions. Especially if it looked like said person was trying to test her

Antonius looked around in the gallery, searching for a moving portrait to bring into their discussion. He motioned with his head to follow him over to the portrait of a cave. As Lysandra and him approached it, the other viewers moved away from the scene, allowing them privacy. As the viewer got closer to the portrait of the cave, the cave's ceiling expanded, never allowing the viewer to see the surface. An inkling of sunlight continued to tease. "Allow me to explain the difference between a novel and owning a piece of artwork such as this."

"There are many novels, both good and bad, and the same could be said about art. I know this is a generalization, but bare with me. You read a novel and you eventually will reach the end of it. You either decide to reread the novel again or maybe you will never touch it again. The story has ended. With a piece of art, the story has no ending. You look into this cave... every day of your life and every day it could mean something different. The painting sparks greater thinking and will continually change in perspective as you mature. If I placed this painting in my great hall and then moved it away, I cannot guarantee that I would still think of it. But upon the day that I brought it out again, I am willing to bet that I will remember the last time that I looked into it and how I felt at the time."

"The mind should be more powerful than emotion. That much I agree with you and that much I would like to think that I live by. Simply, art allows a vessel for me to keep thinking. It is the ultimate unfinished story which means something different for every single person."

"At least we are speaking of fictional worlds. I could never argue that picking up a new painting versus the latest book on potions." He shrugged with an incredulous expression. "In that sense, a person would obviously benefit from learning about potions more."

"Just out of curiosity, what are your favorite fiction genres?" He asked. Most girls he knew her age were getting swept up by romance novels. They were all the rage.

Feeling as if he 'babbled' on long enough, Antonius turned to Lysandra with a gentle smile. "Would you like to get a drink or something to eat with me? I do believe they will be serving to members of the gallery." He asked, shooting one last look at the cave on the wall, before ushering them away.

She listened intently as Antonius explained why he’d decided to back Miss Boothby’s brooms. It made much more sense when he explained. Violetta might have not known about business but she did understand about having the best and only the best. “You can not be blamed for wanting to back it. After all I have heard, frequently, that it is the best broom out there. I have no doubt that you will succeed in finding a way, Antonius. If anyone can it is you.” Her face showed just how much faith she had in the younger Malfoy. He was the smartest gentleman she knew and one of the few people she honestly trusted. 

Violetta was surprised that he was approving of her friendship with Cygnus. Or at least how he thought her friendship with her best friend was. The slight, it was most assuredly a slight, on Belvina made her beam. Cygnus’ sister had never liked her for some reason which meant the feelings were mutual. Thankfully she’d been in Ravenclaw so the two girls didn’t have anything to do with one another. But Antonius next sentence had the blonde biting the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing. Surely he wouldn’t think so if he knew of all the nights Cygnus had dragged her along to sneak out of the castle, or the many other things Cygnus did regularly. It took her a moment to be able to speak and even then an amused smile played on her lips when she spoke of Cygnus.

“Miss Black would be most vexed to hear that as she does not think I am suitable company for her brother. And yes Cygnus is well aware of the image that comes with the Black name and of his place in society. I have no doubts as to my safety with him.” 

Nothing she’d said had been a lie. Cygnus was well aware which is why he did many of the things he did. He hated his place in society and what he had to live up to. As for her safety, while she sometimes wondered about the safety of her reputation she never feared for her physical safety. Antonius didn’t have to know which she spoke of. It was certain the pair (mostly Violetta) would be in terrible trouble if their behaviour at school were to be talked about outside of school. 

A laugh was her first reaction to how Antonius and Sirius had been. There was no way she could see Cygnus reading ahead on his lessons, even for something like that. “Oh my! I am sure you drove them mad doing that. Cygnus is not like that, though. He prefers to not draw attention to himself. If you think on it he does have an awful lot of attention on him already. Of course on the Quidditch pitch it is another story and he adores drawing attention to himself there.” It was all the blonde could do not to roll her eyes at the thought of her best friend’s behaviour on the pitch. Her issue wasn’t so much with his behaviour more who is behaviour was aimed at and the reaction they gave him. But she was not at all jealous. 

"Miss Belvina Black is handling a lot of stress in her life, I can imagine. Despite never talking about possible suitors, I assume it vexes her how much attention Phineas and Arcturus receive for their open courting. They are the stars of the family." Antonius replied candidly. "I think she clings to Cygnus because she is not prepared for him to mature and marry eventually. It would be too easy for them to stay young forever.... unfortunately, even the most powerful wizard cannot control time for too long."

"You will see that once she carries on with her own affairs, her hold on Cygnus will be strained. In a few short years, she will have her own family to deal with. For now, she sees you as a threat." He shrugged and chuckled at the idea. "Which we both know is ridiculous. I cannot imagine that you are scheming to marry Cygnus. As if you sit in your room, pining and writing in your diary about him. You were raised to maintain a higher sense of self-worth." Just talking about this speculation made Antonius laugh a bit more. He honestly did not know how Belvina saw Violetta as a fortune hunter. Belvina would do well with getting out more instead of allowing her novels to run wild with her imagination. 

Antonius was more than amused to learn that Cygnus did not enjoy being the center of attention. He must have been the first of the Blacks to be humble in lessons. How intriguing, he thought. "I, too, loved the attention on the field." He admitted with a snide smirk. "Quidditch was certainly an escape from our obligations as eligible bachelors. Sirius was captain during our 7th year, but not without my encouragement. He nearly chose to not play due to family duties." He explained with a roll of his eyes. "... I know Sirius is concerned that Cygnus' might be too devoted to the sport."

"But given how you speak of him, so highly in regard-- it sounds like Sirius has nothing to worry about." Antonius stated, taking Violetta's elbow as they walked. Sirius would be pleased to hear about Cygnus' school activities. "Sirius is only doing his job as the head of house to make sure that everyone is on the correct path. I hope Cygnus knows how much Sirius thinks of him, even when he is away at Hogwarts."

Hesper had often heard the girls in Beauxbatons giggle and fawn lustrously over men far too arrogant than needed be, which confused Hesper endlessly. Although she had barely considered what kind of qualities she would prefer in a husband, being wed to a man dubbed as a ‘bad boy’ made no sense - surely a lady deserved a gentleman?

Sirius was certainly had not displayed any ‘bad boy’ qualities, and could firmly be described as a gentleman, yet he still cast an ugly chill over her skin. Standing in front of Mr. Antonius Malfoy, who had, in the short time of talking, exhibited more than one quality one could refer to as being ‘bad’, it left Hesper feeling ill.  Perhaps she ought to have signed a contract to the nunnery. 

It was needless to say Hesper was more than taken back at Antonius’s rude comment, so much so that she reclined back a step, fighting the urge to drop her mouth. Was she more the needlework type? Could he be anymore derogatory!  Sirius had mentioned some time ago (Hesper was listening idly, far more concerned with the button on her glove, and only picked up a phrase or two of what he was saying) that his closest friend Antonius was a year his senior. In retrospect, this was both humorous and ironic, since he was behaving as impolitely as a five year old would. 

“I assure you, Mr. Malfoy, that I have not so much as lifted a cloth to sew in my life. In my family, we have the house elves attend to such menial jobs, though I understand that some may not have the luxury of house elves or servants. Which is unfortunate, as manual labor and other idle processes can be detrimental to appearance.” She cast a look at his hands, wanting to seek callouses or blister or some sort of indicator that he was beneath her, having to degrade himself to rough duties. 

She turned elegantly, so he could not see her face, to compose herself. Mr. Malfoy was utterly one of a kind - never had seen been spoken to so rudely. After a moment of composure, she turned back to his handsome face.

"Pardon, ah, Miss Gamp. I did not mean to offend you. I understand that a lady matched with Sirius could not have  worked a day in her life." Antonius replied, restraining from placing a single hand on her right shoulder. He was mildly curious if her skin was as soft as it looked. "I was simply making conversation about how you spend your free time. Girls at Hogwarts frequently made patterns and such." He shrugged, remembering the many tokens that his admirers made him in school.

Oh he had bothered her greatly, he mused watching her cross her arms. He liked her looking this, more spirited. He would see to making her act out more often. It wasn't as if he would ever put their reputations in danger since Sirius would not approve. It would be a challenge to keep it in line, but that was part of the fun. Listening to Hesper assert her musical abilities caused him to drop his grin at once. Sirius had not mentioned her playing to him and Antonius had not bothered to ask. Why would he have? "I am certain that you are a fine musician." He answered with a quick nod. "I look forward to hearing you play in the future when you are ready." 

"I have a great admiration for the arts." Antonius explained. "I attend many shows... London has much to offer nearly every night. While I am not one for crowds, I do enjoy dancing. It is of the finest pastimes. May I say-- I do believe that you would benefit from a volunteer male." He added. It dawned on him that he never should have said that, but now he had to follow through. It would be unlike him to back down from his word. 

Her cheeks were dark pink in embarrassment that she had thought her Antonius would be involved with a half-blood. No he was far too good a pureblood to dirty himself. “I am sorry Antonius. I did not know she was a half-blood. Why was she allowed to open a store on Diagon Alley if she is a half-blood woman? I assumed that her blood status made whoever gave her the building over look that she was a woman. Had I known she was a half-blood I would never have invited her for tea. When I saw her at the theatre she had very nice manners, not perfect of course but nice. We just invited her because we were bored and it was sort of a novelty. That is all. I honestly just thought her a middle-class pureblood.”

She took her chastising well, though she was very embarrassed about it. Everything he was saying, or most anyway, she’d heard before. It was drilled into her head, like it was the heads of other pureblood girls and boys she assumed. At least those with status anyway. In order to keep power you had to marry power is what her mother always said. While women didn’t really have any power rich, pureblood women had far more power then others. Rich, pureblood women married to rich, pureblood men had even more. This played in with the fact that though her marriage would make her belong to another family, her father’s words, it would still disgrace her family if through her they were connected to one with lower status. At least his chastising, and lecture, was delivered much nicer then either of her parents would do.

"My family owns Miss Boothy's building as well as the several around it in the area of the alley." He explained, knowing she would be surprised. He was still surprised by his decision. "The thing is, I approached her myself about opening a shop. I do believe she is producing the best broom on the market. It brings me great pride to boast that I am financing it. It is of the best in sporting goods and Malfoys always want the best. I knew my move would be risky for my reputation, but I also did not want the opportunity to pass out of fear."

"You see, my decision was entirely about the broom and not about the woman making it." He confessed. "Do not worry-- I will find a way to get people to stop talking about me and instead direct their attention to the broom." Quite the effort it would take, seeing as he was hardly in news and gossips were eating this story up like crazy.

Antonius sighed looking over at Violetta's disappointment. It was best for her to get over this lesson while she was young, before a Half-Blood or Mudblood could sully her name. Since she was quite young still, such mistakes were allowed some allowance. He was sure that she would not continue a friendship with Gladys that could affect her reputation and ability to marry well. No Slytherin would be so foolish to do so. Self-preservation came naturally to them, it was as easy as breathing. A natural instinct, really.

"I would not look down on you if you developed a friendship with Cygnus." Antonius clarified, seeing her unease. "You would be a much better influence than that sister of his. And I know Cygnus would never do anything inappropriate with you, after all with a father as Headmaster and a brother like Sirius: that image is a lot to handle. Cygnus knows his rightful place in society." He nodded, believing his every word.

"Behaved? Truly?" Antonius was curious. "How interesting. Here I thought he'd be the type to outwit the professors. That's how Sirius was. Oh the fun we had. We used to read ahead in our lessons, simply to take turns questioning the professor. It was far too comical seeing their reactions to us already knowing the material. We made excellent marks, also, as you can imagine."

"Cygnus does remind me of Sirius in his mannerisms, especially now that he is a bit older. ... At least when Sirius is not in the public's eye." Antonius continued to explain, knowing Sirius to be strict with emotions. "Next time that you visit Valhalla and they are in the same room together... Pay attention to the smirk and hand gestures." He shot her a quick wink as if sealing their agreement.

Lysandrsa arrived at the gallery feeling nervous and excited. This was her first proper event of the season and she knew from experience that it needed to be her most noticeable. This year more than any it was important for her to appear like nothing less than perfection. Freshly out of Hogwarts this would be the first year she would be considered a lady out in public. And a lady’s reputation was decided on how she appeared and acted at social events such as these.

Her date for this evening could either make or break how she was perceived in society. Accepting Malfoy had been a risky decision. Being seen with him proved that she truly was a part of the elite witches and wizards of England. It instantly got her noticed and, she hoped, would prove to the black family that she was deserving of their name. However being seen with Mr Malfoy meant that she would be instantly judged next to all the women he had stepped out with in previous seasons. Be anything less than the best and the gossip and criticism would tear you apart. This held no threat for Lysandra however as she always wanted to be the best and all extra pressure added was extra excitement.

When Lysandra caught sight of Malfoy in the crowd she quickly turned away, pretending she hadn’t yet seen him and instinctively reached into the pocked of her jacket, seeking the comfort of her notebook. Although she knew she would not be able to write anything down in it during the course of the evening she was still glad to know it was there. She clutched onto it and reminded herself what she wanted to come from this evening. She wasn’t asking for much. Merely a good word about her to get back to Arcturus.

She took a deep breath and continued through the crowd to her date. “Believe me, the pleasure is all mine” she told him impressed by his manners. He had an air of intelligence about him Lysandra found instantly appealing. “My journey was fine thankyou.it was a bit far but I am sure this gala will be well worth the trip. I trust yours was as well?”

Lysandra froze at his enquiry into her family estate. Hearing these words made her want to run away from the conversation. Her family life wasn’t something she discussed with anyone. She was a guarded person and she didn’t let her walls down around anyone. So when it looked like someone was asking her about it she instantly wanted to get as far away from that person as possible. She had to remind her self that he was only asking about her house.

“I grew up in an estate just outside of Maidenhead it was nice, nothing on the great Malfoy manor of course but nice. At the moment I am staying with my aunt in London.” Lysandra said, careful to drop a compliment in to the conversation as quickly as possible and gave Malfoy a smile. She intended to get as much from this evening as possible and the only way to do so was to charm him and everyone else around them before they could revert to her well known reputation as an ‘ice queen’.

"I must admit that I have not been to my manor in quite awhile." Antonius replied with a gentle smile, hoping that the young girl was not looking for an invitation. It was fairly common for young ladies to attempt to get in range of his parents, which so easily wanted him to fall in love. He obviously avoided introducing his parents to anyone with his every effort. No need to get their hopes up until he found a young lady that he positively could never bore of.

"My parents are alive and in good health." He explained. "My father will remain with the authority over the estate until I am wed and produce an heir." He looked down at his shoes and smirked as he looked up. "I also happen to live in London at the present time. Whereabouts does your aunt live?" He loved to meet people from the city since they usually had more to talk about. Country dames seldom had anything to say unless they were well educated and read often like Hesper Black.

"Do mind me. I feel incredibly foolish. If I had known this information, we could have traveled together." Antonius lightly shrugged because it was true. "Perhaps another time." He motioned with his arm that they should walk into one of the main rooms since they were likely in people's way that were simply passing by the staircase and hallway. No need for them to cause a spectacle, more so than they had already by attending the event together. Snap! Snap! Snap! As if on cue, a set a flashes went off from the photographers wanting to take a photo of them. He turned to Lysandra and advised her to smile, since this obviously was expected by him to happen. This was the point anyway, for them to step out as friends; as if they had been acquainted for awhile and there was nothing to speculate on about their relationship. Antonius wondered how often she was asked to attend events with gentleman, perhaps several times already as she seemed at ease in the spotlight. At least to him, she was certainly taking the attention quite well. She looked poised instead of flirtatious or whimsical. With a head tilt, he motioned that they should continue walking. The madness was over for now. He was sure that by the end of the night, a few more photographs would be taken and they would deal with that then. For now they would enjoy the gallery with ease.

"When I attended Hogwarts, I did not interact with many Ravenclaws. Slytherin at the time was quite private, I am not sure if it is still that way." He began cordially, willing to pick her brain for fun. "How would say the average Ravenclaw reacts to art? Art, of course, having historical knowledge but I am not discussing that. I wonder do you appreciate art as a talent and do you believe some people are inherently good at it or do you think it is something you would be able to study?"

After several forced meetings, Hesper was eventually allowed to roam around the mansion without Sirius or his parents at her side. Initially, this seemed like a good thing. Oh, how she was mistaken. Hesper felt awkward partially living (she insisted to label it that, since most of her daylight hours were consumed with being in the presence of Sirius or his house) in a home that was not hers. She felt like an intruder, especially since she was inwardly ungrateful for any kind gesture given to her; she cared not for gifts and trinkets and food and chit-chat, she simply wanted to go home. Even worse, Sirius seemed to have a hundred siblings that popped up at every corner, resulting in forced small talk and fake smiling. By the end of the day, Hesper’s cheeks hurt. 

This afternoon, Hesper had been ‘treated’ with the activity of dance lessons. She couldn’t decide which was the greatest reward of it: dancing her feet raw or the awful piano music. It had just gone past an hour since the beginning when there was an interruption at the door. At first, Hesper had automatically assumed a servant boy had interrupted her lesson but upon looking at him she realised such a fine make of robes would be far above the standard a servant boy would have.

Hesper immediately detached herself from the biddy old woman whom had been teaching her the art of ballroom, causing the pianist to stop. Her memory ached to attach the name of Malfoy, or something similar, to his face. It was true, Hesper may have passed him once before during her previous visits to Valhalla, but she had not paused to pay him any attention and to be perfectly honest she intended to keep it that way.

Ah, so he knew her name? Perhaps he did have some importance to the family, rather than just being a friend of Belvina’s. Either way, the fact that he was purposely searching for Belvina’s company skewed Hesper’s opinion of him. Child or no child, Belvina’s tongue was just as sharp as an adult’s, despite the adorable, innocent look in her eyes. Could he be the influence causing ‘Little Miss Black’s’ crudeness? From what Hesper had noticed, Sirius was never as crude as she and neither was his other siblings. Perhaps it was due to her young age and it was something that would be grown out of over time.

“Well. Thank you. And you are?” She rose an eyebrow. Despite being almost certain he was a Malfoy, Hesper didn’t want the young man to feel as if he were important enough to be known by her. Perhaps that would wipe the rude, smug look off his handsome young face.

“As you can see, I have plenty of mentors with me already. I do not need your supervision also." That little comment of hers made him move off the wall and in her direction. "No, my lady, I would be a terrible a supervisor as a former Slytherin." He replied smoothly. "We are typically the supervised." Antonius shrugged, but then turned to stone in seconds. He found it difficult to not deliver a scathing look at Hesper as she suggested to look for Belvina in the garden. She essentially was kicking him out of the room and it didn't even belong to her yet. Terribly rude of her, she had no right. Sirius and him were life-long best mates. He was not about to be pushed aside by her just because she was something new. Not a bloody chance.

"Belvina is not outside." He replied in a smooth, calm voice and crossed his arms. "I was just outside myself. The weather will not accommodate until after sunset." He explained with a single raised brow. He wondered if she knew or cared that Sirius spent most nights on adventures with him. They'd drink, smoke, and flirt with questionable ladies. All in the name of having fun before his honeymoon period. Hesper, being a socialite, was rarely allowed out after hours without constant supervision to protect her reputation. She could never witness Sirius being natural like he knew him to be. Such a shame it was to be marrying into a lie. It disgusted him. He was most grateful that his parents permitted access to their vault if he remained a bachelor. He wouldn't know what to do if he was forced to share quarters with someone that he didn't have an emotional connection with. For the most part, he found relationships difficult, that is other than trusting Sirius with his life.

His mention of being married tomorrow made her smile. Antonius must surely be in love if he thought of being married so soon. The blonde decided that it must be a struggle for him to have to wait to be with his beloved. Surely Miss Boothby must feel the same way. At least she had better or Violetta would do everything in her power to ruin the broom maker. She couldn’t stand the idea of someone toying with her friend’s affections. 

The blonde relished in his compliments, of course. But she also listened closely to what he had to say. He was right, Antonius normally was. She was far better then those other girls. An idiot wouldn’t do for her nor would someone below her. The more he talked the more she realised there wasn’t anyone in her year that fit his description. Well Cygnus but her marrying him was a laughable idea. Even if she could get past the fact that they would always fight Violetta wouldn’t stand for being second to a broom and Quidditch. As his motivational speech as it were came to a close she was sitting up straight and smiling again. If it wasn’t improper she would have thrown her arms around him as she did when she were younger. “Thank you Antonius. You are right of course. There is not anyone in my year that would do as a suitor for me and I shall not settle for less then I deserve.”

Antonius talking of love made her smile wider. “Some people think love is rubbish. But I wish to marry for love. They say that it is unlikely that I would meet someone proper that I can also love. I think that is rubbish. Why would I deem to talk with someone who is not worthy of me? And since I am not likely to talk with them I would not have the opportunity to fall in love with them.” Some people was really one person but he didn’t need to know that.

"Especially now that you are going to take over her business." Antonius swallowed thickly as Violetta's words repeated in his head. Could it be that she got wind of the gossip in Vanity Witch? Bloody hell, everyone was ready that rag. At least explaining the situation to her would be easier than talking to his parents about it. Every muscle in his face turned to stone as he turned to directly address her misplaced excitement. "You are speaking of Miss Boothby, I presume." He began. "I am not involved with her, certainly not in the manner everyone is talking about."

"Why did your aunt invite her to tea?" He asked with a deep scowl on his face. "I did not realize that your family associated with any Half-Bloods, especially one as common as Miss Boothy. She is in trade. It is highly unsuitable for you to be seen with her. Did you not hear how I just commended your current reputation?" Antonius shook his head, he did not mean to get so cross with her. However, he had the duty to straighten her out if need be. "You must protect it at all costs. It gives you power. And with power comes freedom of selection." 

"Violetta... I imagine that your novels might implicate that forbidden romances are thrilling, but those are fictional accounts. The realities of engaging in a romance lower than your class level are laughable. ... I was under the impression that your mother already discussed with you the importance of blood purity when attracting a future spouse." He stated, looking away, suddenly uncomfortable by their age difference. "It is highly improper for me to court let alone marry anyone other than a Pureblood. Families like mine- families like yours have a history to preserve. We must set the crowning example for all of the wizarding world to follow."