It would soon be time for me to head over to the Greengrass residence. I made my way back into the living room of Andromeda's house and saw her sitting there, thinking about something. She turned to face me as I came in.
"You're leaving soon right?" She said
"I am. I'll need to make a quick stop at my own residence before heading to the dinner." I said
"Do you know what it'll be about?" She said
"Because I doubt it'll just be friendly discussion about quidditch."
"I'm aware. Most likely they just want to get a better read on me and see how much we align on certain matters." I responded
"But from what I've read and heard, we should be able to get along pretty well."
"Well just be careful." She whispered
"Will you be coming here after dinner? I'm unoccupied…"
"I can't. As much as I would love to I can't skip my training and I'll need to send out a couple letters too." I said with a sigh
"But I am free tomorrow if you'd like to go and have some dinner?"
"That sounds lovely." Andromeda said with a smile
"How about around 7 o'clock?"
"I'll pick you up here." I said "But I have to be going now. Can't be late"
I made my way over to Andromeda to give her a quick goodbye peck which soon devolved into us making out which I could barely bring myself to stop.
"Bye" she said breathily
I made my way over to the floo and popped back home.
Salazar and Isolde were both giving me murderous stares as I walked into the painting room.
'Yea, I guess I deserve that'
"Heyyy, how are the two of you?" I said with a smile
"Don't antagonize me boy. Where have you been? You we're supposed to come back right after the ball."
Isolde was simply giving me a disapproving stare and not saying anything.
"I'm sorry about that. I ended up spending the night at a friends house and I neglected to inform you." I said hoping they wouldn't dig too much further.
"A friends house? And who pray tell is this so called friend of yours?" Isolde finally spoke.
"I stayed at Andromeda's house. I did tell you about her before the ball." I said
"Aahhh you stayed at your date's house after the ball huh… I see" Said Isolde giving me an unamused stare
"Wonder what the two of you we're up to…"
"Hmph, in the future you will inform us if you plan to stay elsewhere. And be certain you're sure of the people you get close to. People don't often have the best intent." Salazar said grumpily.
"I will grandfather. And don't worry I'm well aware. But as much as I would love to stay and chat with the both of you… I do have to head over to the Greengrass dinner soon and I'll have to prepare." I said giving both a dramatic bow and heading over to my room to get dressed.
I couldn't help but wonder how the dinner would play out. I'd need to be careful. They wanted a friendly relationship. More like needed it. Of that I was sure. But the fact was if I wanted my plans to work I'd need their help too. But I didn't want to give I away too much too quickly.
'Decisions, decisions…' I thought.
— — —
Daphne stared at her reflection in the mirror while brushing her hair. Her long blonde hair cascaded down her shoulders and followed her back down. She stared into her own bright blue eyes and followed the curve of her neck onto her collar bone.
She was making the final preparations for the dinner later tonight. Her parents had made it clear that it was important and that she was to dress and act appropriately.
Her summer vacation had been quiet until now. It seemed this summer wanted to squeeze out a few final surprises before ending. First it was the new Lord Slytherin making an appearance, then her father informing her out of the blue that he would be visiting them, and finally the quidditch world cup finale that her family would be visiting next week.
At least these surprises hadn't proven themselves to be too negative yet. From what she had heard of this Lord Slytherin from the papers and her father, he seemed to share some of the same thoughts as her family and thus could prove to be an ally. Her father had even complimented the young lord on his manners and oratory skills.
'But I suppose I'll see it myself tonight' She thought
The quidditch final though… That was not such a welcome surprise. Her father had gotten them seats because a good number of other families were attending so it was a chance to network. Daphne on the other hand could not care less about quidditch and she knew she'd most likely have to chit chat with the likes of Malfoy and Goyle.
And it's not like quidditch matches were known for being short…
"Ughh"
*knock* *knock*
Two clear knocks rang at her door.
"Come in." Daphne spoke in a clear and bright voice.
The door opened and in walked a girl that was about Daphne's height except more generously curvy and with dark black wavy hair. Following her was a shorter and clearly younger looking girl with the same blonde hair as her.
"Tracy, Astoria, What is it?" Daphne spoke
"Hey Daph! Just wanted to come say hi before that dinner of yours starts. Oh and also did you see yesterdays paper? Finally got a good look at the new guy and let's just say… I like what I see" Tracy said with a humorous tone.
"Some of us have more important matters to think about." Daphne said
"Oh cmooon, I know your thinking it too, don't lie." Tracy said with a smirk
Astoria giggled from behind Tracy
"So this is what you came here for?" Daphne rolled her eyes
"What? Since I can't attend the dinner I gotta have my fun now." Tracy followed
Daphne's parents had decided that Tracey would not attend the dinner since they weren't sure how open Lord Slytherin would be to such a thing. Tracey was technically a member of the family due being made a ward of the Greengrasses after her parents deaths. But that did not mean everyone saw her as being equal to the pureblooded Greengrasses.
And so Tracy would have to have her dinner alone tonight.
"I'm sorry Tracy. You know I'd like to have you there. But it's better to not take the risk." Daphne said with a cool and calculating tone.
"Yea I know Daph and it's alright. It's just one dinner. But you'll have to tell me everything afterward okay?" Tracy said
"Deal." Daphne responded
"I could tell you too y'know" Astoria said poutingly.
"Of course you could Astoria" Tracy said while giving her a hug
"Why don't you-"
*knock* *knock*
"Yes?" Daphne asked
"Daphne dear your father and I need to talk to you a bit before the dinner starts. Can we come in?" Daphne's mother spoke
"Come in." Daphne said
The door opened and Daphne's parents walked in. Tracy and Astoria quickly said goodbye and left. Afterwards her parents closed the door and looked at her with a serious gaze.
After a few seconds of silence her father spoke.
"Daphne your mother and I wished to speak to regarding a few matters before the dinner."
He paused for a moment. Then continued.
"As you know Lord Slytherin will be joining us for dinner shortly. And judging by his speech and the short conversations I've had with him he could prove to be a valuable ally to our cause. Of course we can't be sure yet but we have to prepare for that reality."
"I know that father." Daphne responded
"And seeing as you are both quite close in age and will be going to Hogwarts together. Your mother and I agreed that should this dinner go to plan, you should do your best to have a friendly relationship with Lord Slytherin while you two are at Hogwarts."
"Alright father. I can't say that's unexpected." Daphne said
"Yes I'm aware. Just wanted to make sure we were on the same page" Daphne's father said
Edmund Greengass threw a quick look at his wife which she caught. She turned to Daphne and continued.
"And in addition to this your father and I agreed that should Lord Slytherin prove to an ally to our cause, we would be inquiring whether or not he would be open to a betrothal between the two of you. Seeing as you are that age and such a worthy candidate has appeared."
Daphne was stuck in quiet contemplation. She knew that something like this would come sooner or later. She was at that age and in her positions it was almost a given. And this match was not bad for her. Especially in the position she was in. The facts were that she would be betrothed and married to further expand her families position. And that would allow Astoria to choose her partner more freely since she'd carry on the family name. She had accepted that long ago
"I understand this is quite shocking dear. But I'm sure you're aware of your responsibilities and the fact that this opportunity might not be available for long." Daphne's mother continued.
"But don't worry too much dear. Nothings set in stone yet and things might change. For now let's just have dinner with the man and see what he's truly like." Daphne's father added
"Yes mother, father. I understand." Daphne said with a even tone.
Her parents quetly excited the room.
She picked up the paper that Tracy had left in her room and looked at the front cover. She stared into those emerald green eyes and wondered what direction her future was headed in.
— Caius POV —
"Greengrass manor" I spoke clearly. Making sure I'd up in the right place. I threw the floo powder down and a bright flash of green found myself entering the Greengrass receiving room. I could feel the polished marble floor underneath my feet.
The room was certainly as grand as I was expecting. Tall ceilings with silver filigree and old portraits with grand sceneries.
I heard a soft tapping of heels from across the floor. And soon a tall figure approached - Edmund Greengrass. His expression was composed but I could catch a faint flicker of interest from his eyes.
"Lord Slytherin" He greeted and offered a respectful nod "Welcome to our home. We are honored to have you."
"Thank you Lord Greengrass. It's a pleasure to visit and I appreciate your hospitality."
"I trust your arrival was smooth?" Lord Greengrass spoke
"Quite"
"Great, my wife and daughters are eager to meet you. Shall we?" He gave a slight smile
"Lead the way." I said
We walked up a large wooden staircase and down a hallway decorated with tapestries. I found myself drifting away slightly. So many of these old families kept their heritage alive in stone and thread, and in rituals and expectations. It was familiar in a way that reminded me of home.
We entered a dining room bathed in golden light coming from a few enchanted chandeliers hanging above us. Lady Greengrass stood near the end of the table with her back straight and with a warm yet slightly calculating smile on her face.
And beside her stood two girls. The elder daughter was unmistakably Daphne. Elegant and graceful. Her long blonde hair caught the light as her bright blue eyes turned to look at me. She looked quite like a princess out of a fairytale. Her expression was serene and friendly. But I noticed a flicker of something behind her gaze, it was calculating with a hint of anticipation.
The younger girl, I assumed, was Astoria. She looked at me with undisguised interest, unburdened by youth.
"Lord Slytherin, may I present my wife, Seleste, and our daughters, Daphne and Astoria." Lord Greengrass gestured accordingly.
Lady Greengrass stepped forwards and gave me a slight curtsy
"A pleasure to finally meet you my Lord. You honor us with your presence."
"Thank you for the invite, it is much appreciated." I responded with a slight bow.
"And you must be Daphne" I said turning to the elder daughter.
She gave a slight curtsy, her voice smooth and light. "Welcome to our home my Lord. It's good to finally be able to meet you myself."
Her tone was polite and light but I could tell she was measuring me, as I was her.
"And you as well, Lady Daphne." I replied, holding her gaze for longer than custom required.
Astoria stepped forward and gave her own curtsy and a small wave. I gave her a slight smile and a wink which earned me a grin in return.
"Shall we sit?" Lady Greengrass gestured to the table and we made our way to thee dining table.
The table was set with decadent cutlery and adorned with silver and green decorations. The house elves had certainly been hard at work.
I took my place beside Edmund with Daphne seated across from me. Dinner began with some quiet formality and light conversation about the upcoming quidditch world cup and current affairs in the ministry. Edmund was clearly guiding the conversation a certain way with help from Seleste's occasional commentary. Daphne on the other hand spoke little but gave some insightful comments here and there.
I could tell she was raised to understand her role. And she was certainly good at it.
"So, my Lord, we've read your speech at the Wizengamot and it was certainly striking." Lady Seleste said.
"Striking can mean a great many things, Lady Greengrass." I replied evenly. "I hope you found them agreeable."
"Indeed" Edmund chimed in. "Us and many of our associates were intrigued - your emphasis on tradition and unity yet with the need for change speaks to what our world needs."
"This world needs to change and adapt, but we must not forger who we are in the process." I said
"Well said." Edmund responded, his eyes slightly twinkling.
I looked over at Daphne and she seemed to be carefully studying my face.
"Do you agree, lady Daphne?" I asked
She tilted her head slightly, considering. "Change is inevitable and often necessary. But it's those with vision and resolve who determine whether that's for better or worse."
I gave a small smile. "Well said."
The rest of the dinner passed with a certain rhythm. Mixes of questions, answers and polite laughter. When we eventually stood from the table and made our way into the sitting room for some post dinner drinks, I felt as if things had gone as well as they could have.
Edmund approached with a glass of aged firewhisky, offering it to me. "I believe this evening proven… promising."
"I would agree" I said while throwing a glance toward Daphne, who was now speaking quietly with her mother.
"I do have one question" I added
"Oh? Ask away." Edmund said
"I've heard the Greengrass family should have one more girl in it. A ward." I questioned
"Oh yes, Tracy. She is a ward of the family however… well, she is a half-blood and as we were still somewhat unsure of your character we thought it best for her not to attend tonight." Edmund said with a sigh.
"I see. Well, should I end up attending any future events with you I would hope that she could join us. Wouldn't be kind to leave her out of such things." I said
"Of course. That was my plan already." Edmund said with a light smile.
"Great, that settles that then." I said with a smile to match Edmund's. "Oh and I was wondering if I'd be able to share a couple words with Daphne privately? I'll be joining her at Hogwarts soon and it wouldn't hurt to make some connections, especially as we'll most likely be sharing houses."
"Of course, that sounds like a fantastic idea." Edmund said with a slight twinkle in his eyes.
"Daphne dear. Would you come over here?" Edmund called out to her.
Seleste took a quick look over before giving Daphne a slight raise of her eyebrows, followed by Daphne giving her a slight nod. After this Daphne made her way over to us.
"Yes father?" Daphne said
"Lord Slytherin here-" Edmund started
"Call me Caius" I interrupted
Edmund gave me a small smile and continued.
"Caius here wanted to share a few words with you, seeing as you'll be schoolmates and most likely classmates quite soon." Edmund finished.
After this Edmund made his way over to Seleste and they began discussing in hushed whipers.
Daphne looked me up and down, took a breath and spoke.
"You seem to have made quite the impression." Daphne said, her voice light but with an edge.
I met her gaze "Did I?" I said with a slight smirk tugging at the corner of my lips. "I must admit, I was rather hoping to make an impression on you."
Her brows arched, just slightly. "Bold, my Lord."
"I've been called worse." I said leaning my head just slightly closer.
Daphne tilted her head, her eyes never leaving mine. "Then perhaps you'd be happy to hear I'm not easily impressed."
"Perhaps," I agreed "Though I don't mind a challenge."
There was a pause. I took a slight sip of my firewhiskey with my eyes not leaving hers. The silence was filled with a the quiet hum of magic that seemed to always linger in old, noble homes. The candlelight played off her light hair making it seem pale gold. Her expression was calm and measured, but her eyes, those sharp blue pools, sparkled with something. Interest, perhaps.
She finally spoke, her tone cool but tinged with something warmer. "We'll then, I'll be watching closely, Lord Slytherin. Let's see if you live up to that family name of yours."
I smiled. Welcoming the test. "Likewise, Lady Daphne."
Our gazes lingered for a moment more. She then gave a faint curtsy, with the ghost of a smile on her lips, before turning and walking away towards the fireplace.
I watched her go with a strange sense of anticipation in my chest.
This summer had already proven itself to be quite interesting.