The Malverne Estate was peaceful in the days following Christmas, but the warmth of the holidays was quickly giving way to something far more significant—the Ministry of Magic's New Year's Ball.
This was the first time Ezekiel Cassian Malverne would attend not just as the Malverne heir, but as a rising name in both politics and Quidditch.
His father, Lord Thomas Malverne, had already advised him:
"Tonight is more than a celebration, Ez. It is an opportunity. Watch, listen, and speak wisely. Your presence alone is enough to draw attention—make sure it's the right kind."
Ez knew this wasn't just a ball. It was a battleground of influence.
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The Ministry of Magic's atrium had been transformed into an opulent ballroom. Charmed chandeliers floated above, casting golden light over the space. Powerful figures of the wizarding world moved with effortless grace, their conversations layered with hidden meanings.
As Ez stepped inside, dressed in tailored navy-blue robes with silver accents, his silver-blond hair neatly styled, all eyes turned to him. He was young, only fourteen, but his presence was undeniable.
"That's the Malverne heir."
"He's already making a name for himself at Hogwarts."
"And on the Quidditch pitch—England might just have its next star Chaser."
The whispers followed him, but Ez had learned not to react. Powerful people never appeared fazed.
Standing beside his parents, he took in the room carefully. This was a gathering of allies, enemies, and those who had yet to pick a side.
Then came the first of many introductions.
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The first to approach was Lord Augustus Greengrass, a man known for his neutrality in political matters. He was also the father of Daphne and Astoria.
"Your Quidditch victories are quite the talk of the younger generation," he remarked, his tone polite but observant. "But I hear your studies at Hogwarts are equally impressive."
"I strive to uphold my family's legacy, Lord Greengrass," Ez replied smoothly. "But legacy is not built on victories alone. It is secured through understanding the world and one's place in it."
Lord Greengrass studied him carefully, then gave a nod of approval. "Wise words for someone so young."
Nearby, Madam Amelia Bones, the head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, had been listening. She stepped forward, her sharp eyes assessing him.
"Lord Malverne, always a pleasure," she greeted his father before turning her gaze to Ez. "And you must be young Ezekiel. I've heard much about you."
"I hope only good things, Madam Bones."
She chuckled. "That depends. Tell me, do you believe the Ministry needs change?"
Ez met her gaze evenly. "I believe change is inevitable. What matters is ensuring it happens in the right direction."
She raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "A careful answer. I'll be watching your progress, Lord Malverne."
---
Ez was introduced to several key figures in the Wizengamot, including Lady Augusta Longbottom, Neville's grandmother.
"Your grandmother was a brilliant woman, Lord Malverne. A Ravenclaw through and through."
"She would have been honored to hear that, Lady Longbottom."
She gave a short nod of approval. Another potential ally in the future.
As he moved through the ballroom, Ez noticed Adrian Pucey watching him. Their rivalry at Hogwarts had already begun to spill into their political circles.
"Enjoying the ball, Malverne?" Adrian finally spoke, a smirk on his lips.
"I am," Ez answered smoothly. "It's fascinating to see who truly holds power in our world."
"And who only thinks they do," Adrian added.
A silent challenge. Ez smirked back. "Indeed."
---
At some point, Ez found himself drawn into a formal dance—an unavoidable part of the evening. To his surprise, his partner was Lady Helena Greengrass, Daphne and Astoria's mother.
"You have a talent for making an impression, Lord Malverne," she remarked as they moved across the dance floor.
"A talent, or a responsibility?" Ez countered.
"Perhaps both."
Her expression was unreadable, but Ez sensed something deeper. The Greengrass family was one of the few truly neutral houses—but their interest in him was clear.
---
Later in the evening, Ez found himself alone with his father on a balcony overlooking the grand hall.
"You handled yourself well," Thomas Malverne said, his voice calm.
"I observed, listened, and spoke carefully, as you advised."
His father gave an approving nod. "Good. But remember, Ez—this is only the beginning. Influence is not built in a day. Tonight, you made an impression. Now, you must solidify it."
Ez understood. This was only the first step toward the power he would one day hold.
The Malverne heir had arrived. And the wizarding world was beginning to take notice.
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