To say Hadrian was feeling anxious would be putting it lightly, he had never liked being in the spotlight. Especially Ministry of Magic sort of spotlight, and that was where he would be this night. Watched by everyone, judged, he had already been 'famous' before this, in this time, but tonight would cement his role in the spotlight from which there was no return. It was weird how much he had changed since coming here, to this time, yet at the same time, not. He had come to the past with every intention of just fading into the background, doing what he could from the shadows, only to be propelled right into the frontlines again, by Tom yet again. No, it wasn't all Tom, his desire to prevent Dumbledore's ascension to fame and acclaim had been his real reason for all this. The fact it sat well with Tom's plans heralded his going along with it. The changes they wanted to make, they had to have the public believing in them, in their causes, revering them, otherwise…well, Hadrian didn't want to see the world descended into another war, which Tom would resort to if need be. He believed wholly and completely about his cause, enough that he'd go to any means necessary, thankfully though, that didn't mean making Horcruxes and splitting his wonderful mind.
"You are making me feel sick," Tom informed Hadrian as he wandered into the bedroom sounding slightly annoyed, the bond conveyed differently of course, "Do you require a calming draught?" the echoing of his anxiety through the bond was perplexing when it was mixed with his excitement, it made his stomach feel odd to say the least. He felt as though he had butterflies crawling up his throat and a sick feeling on top of it. Not a good mix when he was genuinely looking forward tonight.
Hadrian's lip curled, "No," he could control his own feelings, thank you very much, he didn't need the aid of a damn potion. He hadn't even needed one during exams or the Triwizard tournament. Although he may have taken one if anyone had thought to offer when he was eleven…and about to play his first ever Quidditch match. The feeling hadn't lasted long at all, before raw, excitement bubbled through him. He had discovered he loved flying. "I'm fine,"
Tom blinked and watched Hadrian shore himself, and the sick feeling did actually fade away through the bond. He had iron clad control over his emotions…which shouldn't be possible and he hadn't just closed off the bond since he could still feel him. Had he just reassured himself in the space of a few moments? "Fenrir is ready to go," Tom commented, deciding against bringing it up, he had a feeling Hadrian hated how he reacted to parties in general. The more he attended, the less anxious he would get over public appearances.
"He has his dress robes on?" Hadrian asked, perking up, a genuine smile crossing his features. He had bought him normal black robes instead of red ones. He had so badly wanted to buy him the red ones, Fenrir would have looked adorable in them. Unfortunately, it was a black tie event, everyone witch and wizard were to dress up to the nines. The last thing he would ever do was embarrass Fenrir, no, not on his watch.
"He does and I've already coached him on how to act," Tom replied wryly, there had been a lot of pouting over Tom's stern words too. He'd calmed somewhat when he realized it was only for when he was in public setting. That how Fenrir behaved reflected back on both of them, both he and Hadrian. That and the fact he was a werewolf, he would need to set an example for the other creatures because they were all relying on him. Both his adoptive parents and others of his kind. To show they weren't the 'creatures' they were made out to be.
They were hoping to get some of the laws changed quick enough that Fenrir might just have a normal schooling at Hogwarts. Neither were holding their breath, but they could hope. They wanted what was best for Fenrir after all, and home schooling would not let him be integrated into society and would prevent him from social interaction that's important to his upbringing.
"Alright, I guess we best get going then," Hadrian stated, straightening his attire, making sure it was perfect.
Tom as always was impeccably dressed in his black dress robes, wearing his Slytherin locket and the thick platinum wristband that Hadrian had gifted him for Yule. It had their names inscribed along with their coat of arms and was imbued with dozens of protective charms and would alert him to any attempts to give him potions or poisons. They were newer and more potent than the bonding rings they wore. On the underside was three words, just three words pietatem fidem caritatem, loyalty, love and fealty. Tom had his loyalty and love and he had with those words, formally acknowledged his loyalty to his 'Lord' as it were. Tom had strutted around like a peacock for the rest of the day, not even bothered by the lack of sleep. He had however, told Hadrian later that night that he never wanted to be his Lord, that they were equal and would both be Lord's of the faction they would build, had already begun to build. However, they both knew that Tom's decisions would be the final ones depending on whether Hadrian could talk him out of it.
Hadrian was dressed in a similar fashion, with white trim instead of silver. Wearing the pendant he'd received from his husband that Ignotus Peverell had once worn and of course, his Lordship and bonding rings. His hair, which had steadily grown longer, was up with a silver Slytherin clasp that had been gifted to him for Yule. Their lapels were bare, ready to receive their medal, when the time came for them to be awarded.
"Fenrir, we are leaving," Tom called out, not quiet shouting but not being as quiet as normal so the young boy could hear him. Fenrir was going to be one of the youngest at this party, and would give Hadrian the perfect excuse to leave before it was over. Tom however, planned on using this party to his own advantage and get at least a few others on his side, or at least observe everyone to see if there was anyone worth joining his cause.
Fenrir was quick to bulldoze towards them, Hadrian positively melted over the sight the boy made in his own dress robes. He was also quick to fix the hair which was a little windswept. "If anyone says anything do you remember what to do?" Hadrian asked, kneeling before Fenrir.
It was odd to think that by the time Fenrir was seventeen…he'd probably be towering over both of them. In the pensive memories, Fenrir was tall, taller than everyone that included 'Lord Voldemort' and Tom was by no means short of stature. "Tell either you or Tom," Fenrir stated firmly with a decisive nod. "So you'll kick their butts!"
Tom smirked at that declaration, not him, at least not right away, he was more subtle, but Hadrian? Hadrian would lay all their shit bare and then some. It truly came in handy being from the future and knowing things other did not. Although, a great deal of magic still remained unexplored, especially for six decades passing, nearly eight by the time Hadrian had come back. Regretfully the wars had forced a toll on the magical world, for which they hardly able to recover between bouts of violence.
Things would be so very different this time around.
"Alright, good, we're leaving by Portkey, so hold on tight," Hadrian explained to Fenrir, ignoring Tom's eye roll, probably at his smothering, but Hadrian couldn't help it. He wanted Fenrir to know he was wanted, that he could come to him any time he needed to that someone would fight his battles for him.
"Do you have the admittance tickets?" Tom asked, he definitely did not. Seeing the look on Hadrian's face, he realized he had forgotten. Lips twitching, he flicked his wand and summoned them. Speaking of wands, they had rightfully received the Elder wand from the Aurors after Tom had stated that yes, he would like the wand that he had won by conquest. Oddly enough, it responded to him just as well as Hadrian. Neither had kept it, it had been tucked away in the vault alongside the resurrection stone, both wrapped in anti-summoning and tracking spells, so that they could not be found. Hadrian however, had kept his invisibility cloak, it was much too handy to truly desire to leave in a vault for the rest of its days. Snatching the three tickets, he slid his wand away again, and touched the Portkey, "Ministry of magic," was intoned and with that the three of them were soon on the move, leaving their home and travelling to the Ministry of magic's atrium.
"Hadrian! Tom!" came the voice of Avery, who was already on the move towards them, dressed impeccably in his own black robes. "Hello, Fenrir," Avery added with a small smile seeing the young boy was with them.
A few people they didn't know used the Floo network and automatically begun walking in the direction of the ball room.
"You look good," Hadrian said, "Everyone else already inside?"
"Yeah, it's about to start, they were getting everyone situated, this place was getting too packed." Avery explained, with everyone either using their Portkey's, Apparating in or using the Floo Network. "Abraxas has told me that everyone's sat together, us I mean," instead of with their families went unsaid.
"That pleases me," Tom nodded, he had no desire to sit with strangers all evening. As fun as it would be to make contacts while he ate his meal, it wasn't something he desired. He'd rather have his 'friends' with him, and he was sure Hadrian and Fenrir would too.
"Abraxas sitting with us as well?" Hadrian asked as Tom handed over the three tickets, Avery handed his over afterwards.
"Yes, and his fiancé," Avery said, "She's very beautiful," he had to admit.
"Ah, so we're finally going to meet her, does she even understand English?" Hadrian asked dryly, not sure whether he was being sarcastic or not to be frank.
Avery barked out an amused laugh, "They moved there on the behest of her mother, when she was ten so she could attend Beauxbaton like her mother. Her father is English, Heir Dawlish, his brother is Lord Dawlish, Dawlish was quick to agree to a contract between his daughter and Lord Malfoy. They moved back recently with the war over with. They had contemplated leaving earlier but with everything so unstable they didn't wish to risk it." hence why nobody had actually met Abraxas' wife-to-be. Heir Dawlish used to be the heir to the Dawlish fortune, but his brother Lord Dawlish had a son, so he was heir and would be Lord when his father passed the title to him or passed away, not the brother.
"Which one has a son called John Dawlish?" Hadrian asked, the sound of music hitting them as they continued to walk towards the room hosting the ball. John Dawlish was an Order member and Auror in his time, but if he recalled correctly, he'd only met him a few times, and considering his age, he was probably really young, not even Hogwarts age yet.
"Lord Jerimiah Dawlish." Avery explained, for the longest time they thought Robert would gain the estate when Jerimiah died, due to the fact Lord Jerimiah didn't have children until very late in life. His own brother had a child before him, despite being younger than Jerimiah by four years. "His brother is Heir Robert Dawlish, he only had a daughter," giving him the rundown, but that wasn't out of character, since they often had to inform Hadrian due to the fact he hadn't grown up in the Magical world and he didn't know a great deal many people. Tom sometimes requested the same thing from him.
"Ah," Hadrian acknowledged that he understood, "Everything okay with your parents?"
"Yes, my sister's getting married next month," Aiden said proudly, and he was proud of his sister.
"Are you close to her?" Hadrian asked, as Avery opened the door allowing them to go through first. To say he had been shocked to hear that Aiden actually had a sister would be putting it lightly. Not only that but his sister was actually older than him by a good few years. His sister, he'd learned, didn't have much in the way of magic, and had barely graduated Hogwarts. Some viewed that as no better than a squib, but Aiden seemed to really love her regardless.
"As close as we could be, I was often being tutored for my place as heir," Aiden explained sourly, "Then she was gone to Hogwarts and my parents…well, they rarely spoke of her, it wasn't until we were both older that we actually became close."
"She still lives at home?" Hadrian asked, inwardly pissed off at the expectations of parents causing children to feel inadequate.
"For now, she can't wait to get away," Aiden said slightly lost at that.
"I honestly can't say I blame her," Hadrian sighed, "Being judged as lacking by her own parents…I'm surprised she has any self-worth whatsoever. Do you both get into arguments over your parents?"
Aiden nodded, slightly surprised.
"Then don't, she's entitled to feel how she feels about them, just make an effort to see it from her point of view. Maybe make a point to her that they wont discuss your parents, get to know each other as brother and sister without anything else getting in the way." Hadrian explained easily, Tom lifted Fenrir up so that he wasn't crushed as they made their way to the table, trying to avoid bumping into everyone or getting hit by chairs that were constantly being moved by sitting wizards and witches. "Keep an eye on her husband, listen to her thoughts, be there for her…" from what he understood the witch had a very, very secluded life with nobody there for her. Just a husband who would ignore her to further her career with a devoted son (Barty Crouch Junior) who had tried so hard to get his father to spend even just a little time with his wife who was dying, literally, and desired his company. It seemed as though she'd always loved Barty Crouch Senior or…perhaps she didn't think she deserved any better.
"Keep an eye on her…what?" Aiden spluttered, she wasn't even married yet and he was sounding like he knew something. Which gave him pause, narrowing his eyes shrewdly, he did know a lot of information. Was he some sort of clairvoyant? "Have you seen something that might make you think Crouch will hurt her?" protectiveness roused.
"Just do as I suggest, Aiden," Hadrian informed him. Giving him a grim nod, not saying anything further. Especially not in public setting, not that he had any plans to divulge everything anyway. No, his past and his appearance here would always remain between him and Tom.
Avery sat after Tom, Hadrian and Fenrir did, slightly perplexed by what he had just been told. Hadrian was never against speaking up when he wanted to, so whatever he knew…well, he didn't even know what he was thinking. He mustn't want to state where or when he got this information. He did know however, that he would be keeping an eye on the wizard. She probably wasn't in any type of imminent danger, otherwise Hadrian would definitely have said. He wasn't the type of person to leave someone in danger.
"Ah, Mr and Mr Peverell-Slytherin! Men of the hour! Glad you could finally make it!" Spencer-Moon beamed at them, "I just wish to thank you both for what you did for us…"
"Thank you, Minister, it was nothing really," Tom said bashfully, playing his part beautifully, if he didn't say so himself. Shaking the proffered hand with a charming grin.
Unfortunately, when Spencer-Moon went to shake Hadrian's hand, he received only a blank look from the wizard, "You would have let Dumbledore get away with what he did to me…" just managing to sound successfully hurt instead of wrathful, which he very much felt. Stupid bloody Minister's thinking they could do whatever they liked without consequences.
The Minister openly cringed at the reminder, how foolish of him was it to think for a moment nobody would find out due to the fact it had never been enacted. It came close, too close for comfort, but the contact had not been signed. Dumbledore was not free, and would remain in Azkaban for a further two years. "Yes, yes I would have done." He sighed resignedly, "I had a choice to make, a very difficult choice, and not everyone was happy about it, but being a Minister isn't about making easy choices…difficult ones…take more courage, but I will take the blame and shoulder it." pausing a few times to find the correct words to use, but nonetheless remaining honest. He never wanted to be one of those ministers who lied constantly, not about the reason for running for Minister or even about choices he made during his term.
Hadrian was impressed despite himself, 'He actually means that' Tom's voice commented in his mind, which meant Tom had been able to glean something from the Minister's thoughts. Someone in high power actually knowing nothing about the mind arts? He wasn't sure how he felt about that, it was dangerous, but unfortunately, Occlumency and Legillimency was a difficult and ancient craft that only the noble's seem to know and practice. Well, except from the few who learned through necessity and caution (Severus) and Dumbledore, he didn't come from noble stock, but his need to protect his secrets probably heralded his learning. 'Don't hold a grudge against him, it will look extremely childish,' Tom added mentally, meanwhile looking around the room which was an impressive sight. It made the Great Hall during the Yule Ball pale into insignificance truly.
Dozens upon dozens of round tables with crisp white sheets over them. Roses and thorns bundled together in a small vase at the centre of the table with beautiful wrought crystal glasses and of course, a gold coloured placemat, charmed to bring the food up when it was time. There were dozens of waiters serving an abundance of drinks.
They were unfortunately, avoiding their table, which didn't impress Tom at all. He waved his hand in an imperious 'come here' gesture, when one actually passed near enough. "Whiskey please," Tom declared.
The waiter looked around nervously, "I'm afraid Sir, you need to be of legal drinking age to…" assuming the wizard was underage, just like everyone else at the table.
"Hadrian and I are seventeen-years-old," Tom informed him, which was true enough, Hadrian turned Seventeen in September and he did on New Year, just yesterday, today was the first of January, the holidays had flown in. Hadrian had spent a great deal of that time recovering and recuperating, as had he, between Hadrian being injured and the magical exhaustion they'd both suffered from.
After hearing that the waiter begun falling over himself to serve them their asked for alcohol. Pouring more than a generous amount into a tumbler which he gave to Tom with a flourish.
Before the waiter could give Hadrian anything, "No, I'll have two butterbeers and a shot of firewhisky please," he'd need something to get through the night.
The Minister was still standing there, waiting for any sort of answer or acknowledgement. It wasn't the first time the need for drink had side-lined a conversation, and it wouldn't be the last.
"Very well, I forgive you, but know that I will never forget," Hadrian explained seriously, "You made a difficult choice I understand that, but it was me whom Dumbledore…" Hadrian dramatically shuddered, without finishing, not quite sure how to phrase it anyway.
A burst of amusement shot through Tom as he 'soothed' Hadrian, by rubbing his back giving him the comfort he so clearly needed. Amusement was clearly being supressed by everyone around the table. The thought of Hadrian being afraid of Dumbledore of all people was comical. No, Hadrian wasn't afraid of him, if anything Hadrian loathed Dumbledore with an intensity that even surpassed Toms. Which hello, shouldn't have been possible but nonetheless was.
"I understand," the Minister said sombrely, dipping his head in respect. "I shall leave you to enjoy the festivities, please, enjoy," the Minister said, his shoulders not quite so hunched anymore, a little more relaxed at the clear forgiveness from the boy he had so nearly wronged.
Hadrian drinking caused a burst of chatter from the table, surprised to see that Hadrian was actually drinking. He'd never in their memory actually drank anything more than butterbeer. None of them actually considered butterbeer an actual drink, you'd need to drink more than your body weight to actually feel even a smidgen of giddiness. They watched in bemusement as he put the shot into the flagon of butterbeer and took a gulp of it wiping his mouth in satisfaction. The other butterbeer went to Fenrir who delighted in the foamy drink.
The group all began to catch up, revealing everything they'd heard to Tom and Hadrian. Or just bemoaning their fate with their parents not letting them out of their sights since they returned to Britain.
"Hadrian, Tom, I'd like to introduce you to my fiancé, Imogen Dawlish, soon to be Malfoy," Abraxas said standing before Hadrian and Tom with a proud look on his face.
Tom and Hadrian automatically stood, both kissing Imogen on the hand in greeting. "It's lovely to meet you, Imogen, we've heard nothing but good things about you." The other wizards had stood as well, the witches remaining seated as tradition dictated.
Hadrian observed her, trying to place her at all in any of his memories, even in passing. He was unsurprised that he couldn't, Abraxas and Imogen weren't alive in his time. She was a thin and dainty woman, with blonde hair, not as blonde as Abraxas of course, but still blonde. He was surprised to find that in her, he saw little bits of Draco. Draco was never actually as tall as his father or grandfather, hell, even Narcissa who was a tall woman and able to stand right next to Lucius without being towered over. Draco did take after all his immediate relatives on the Malfoy side it seemed.
A loud clearing of a throat, and a "Hadrian?" brought him out of his musing, Abraxas, who was shooting wary glances at Tom as if expecting him to get furious that Hadrian was spending an inordinate amount of time staring at his fiancé forgot to get angry on his own behalf. The others however, were more than used to Hadrian spacing out from time to time, having spent a lot more time with him.
"What?" Hadrian asked, shaking off his lingering procrastinations. "Did somebody say something?" looking around the table curiously. Idly noticing that everyone had sat down, and did so himself.
"I was wondering where you got your idea…for your book?" Imogen repeated, her tone soft and quiet, as if she wasn't used to speaking to people. she was sitting at the next side of Hadrian, and Abraxas on her other side.
"Oh, well, I did it for my Magical theory class, put a lot of effort and time into it," Hadrian half-lied, half told the truth since he had done it for his magical theory class. "I realised it would make a good book, I wanted everyone to know what I'd figured out so I published my results. I definitely didn't expect the book to become so popular." So even without good investments, the basilisk parts – which continued to bring in an obscene amount of money each year – he would have been more than comfortable with the interest he garnered from that one book itself.
"Why not?" Imogen asked surprised, "It's not only theoretically sound but it's actually proving to be the truth."
"It's been my experience that most pureblood's don't do well with their belief's being…proven wrong. I expected them to blacklist the book and continue on as they were, sure in their belief that keeping their lines 'pure' would result in strong magical offspring."
"What do you think this will mean for any squibs born in this generation?" Imogen then asked, truly fascinated. Ignoring all conversation that was going on around her, as she focused on Hadrian and his views.
"I believe that they will have more hope of being accepted," Hadrian mused thoughtfully, surprised by Imogen's questions. "If they are accepted into the magical community instead of discarded like yesterday's trash…" Hadrian railed off.
Imogen nodded enthusiastically, "Then there will be less Muggle-borns coming into the magical world."
"There is really no such thing as a Muggle-born, two Muggles cannot give birth to a magical child. It's impossible. The magic has to be in the line already for a magical child to be born of what people see as 'Muggles' but the magic is just…dormant until a child is born with a magical core."
"So, only one has to come from a magical line or do they both have to? It's one thing that wasn't really clarified in the book," Imogen asked enthusiastically, "Oh, yes please," she added to a waiter who was gesturing for any of them if they'd like some wine.
Abraxas just continued to listen to them talking, barely refraining from dropping his jaw incredulously. He wasn't sure he had seen Imogen talk so often or so much to anyone in the time he'd known her. Not even to him, and he couldn't help but actually feel jealous of the budding friendship.
"That's only because I couldn't quite discount it being possible, it would need thoroughly testing for decades to know definitively." Hadrian explained passionately, "Plus, I don't know every single name of wizarding families, and with names changing with females being born…it's very difficult."
"It would be fascinating to see if we could come up with some sort of ritual that would allow us to know anyone magical on the magical tree, active magic I mean," Imogen agreed enthused.
"That would require blood magic," Hadrian pointed out wryly, "Regretfully, it was banned, one of Dumbledore's ideas I believe." Hypocrisy at its finest, he had done blood magic with Grindelwald a blood pact never to fight each other. He reckoned that was what Newt was charged with. To get Grindelwald's blood, but he would never be sure.
"I wonder if we could get it changed again?" Imogen pondered as she took a drink of her wine.
"It's possible, but the goblins rules are different, if a ritual is created…the goblins can do it, for a fee of course." Hadrian said wryly, causing Imogen to laugh in sheer delight 'for a fee of course' was one of the goblin nations favourite sayings. Everyone knew that, well, everyone who had spent more than one meeting at Gringotts.
Tugging at his sleeve had Hadrian immediately turning around, "What's up, cub?" using the nickname he'd given Fenrir.
"I need to go to the toilet," Fenrir whispered into Hadrian's ear, he had drank the entire flagon of Butterbeer so it was hardly surprising.
"Right, of course," Hadrian murmured quietly, craning his neck around, looking for any visible signs of a toilet.
"Everything okay?" Avery and Imogen questioned almost in sync.
"Yeah, Fenrir needs the toilet, excuse us," Hadrian explained, standing up and making his way out of the room, Avery excusing himself and following him, much to both Tom and Hadrian's amusement.
"Go enjoy the party, nothing is going to happen, this is the Ministry," Hadrian tried to shoo Avery away, and failed spectacularly.
------0
"You must be Hadrian Peverell-Slytherin," Drawled a voice as Hadrian, Fenrir and Aiden re-entered the room after using the facilities. The music wasn't loud enough to prevent conversation, but they were closer to it being at the door.
"I don't know about must be, but yes, I am," Hadrian replied, arching a brow at the wizard speaking to him. He was vaguely familiar, but Hadrian couldn't pinpoint exactly why.
"Lord Rosier, Evan Rosier's father," Aiden whispered, informing Hadrian of to whom he was speaking.
"Your…book…was illuminating to say the least," Rosier informed him, staring at him.
"Which one? I believe I have four published," Hadrian queried, completely ignoring the derisive tone of his. He honestly didn't care what anyone thought of him or the books, if it helped the majority of the magical world, brilliant.
"Magic and it's descendants," Rosier said, lips curled back in disgust.
"Ah, I see, and you have a problem with it I presume?" Hadrian asked, "Despite the fact there is enough proof going around for even the most reluctant to know that I'm quite correct?"
Avery stiffened, wand sliding into his hand as he observed Rosier with caution. Adult wizard or not, he would protect Hadrian with his life, as he had sworn to do well over a year ago. Rosier did notice the actions, and made a considerable effort to relax his posture, having not realized he must have taken on quite a argumentized and aggressive stance. He refused to apologise although he did dip his head in respect and also silent apology. "And what are the chances of these abnormalities being present in any children born of…"
"You're Druella's father, aren't you?" Hadrian asked, eyes narrowing, speculatively. "Cygnus' betrothed?" despite the fact Cygnus was older than Druella. "How many generations?"
"Barely two," Rosier informed him, his voice a little cold and brittle.
"I don't see why that would alarm you, most wizards don't seem to give a shit about their daughters, except for the money they could get for them." Hadrian retorted, "The only ones this far are the Half-blood's and some of the purebloods," he couldn't lamp the Black's in with the others, since they were genuinely cared for.
Rosier's eyes became glacial, "My daughter is worried that any child she has will be…problematic to say the least." Not able to use the word that should be used, not in conjuncture to a would be grandchild.
Hadrian paused, lips pursed, Druella and Cygnus would go on to have three daughters. Andromeda, Bellatrix and Narcissa, two out of the three were perfectly normal and he honestly had no idea if Bellatrix had been at one point normal, or if she had always been a bit…insane. Azkaban could have caused it for all he knew, she might have just been like Sirius before it all happened. Lacking impulse control, but that wasn't exactly a terrible thing. It only had the potential to be. If he said anything…those three girls could be wiped out of existence. His hatred of Bellatrix didn't wipe out the good mother Narcissa was…or Andromeda. He had no idea if Sirius and Regulus would be born for Merlin's sake.
Leaning forward into Rosier's personal space, he leaned in and quietly spoke, "Hmm, she'll have three very powerful daughters," Hadrian commented mysteriously, before walking away from Rosier, refusing to discuss it more, although he did stifle the need to laugh at the perplexed look on his face.
"What exactly did you just say to him?" Avery whispered as they reached their table, looking back to find the wizard still standing there with an openly baffled look upon his face.
"Indeed, I would like to know as well," Tom replied, as he absently removed a colouring book and crayons and putting them across Fenrir's place setting, so that he would have something to do and not be completely bored out of his skull. Fenrir beamed at Tom in delight and eagerly moved to sit down and begin colouring with his crayons. He had seen what looked like a brewing confrontation, but Avery's not-so-subtle move had made Rosier rethink his actions. He had heard everything, a simple charm had allowed him to hear nearly everything. Hadrian's whisper to the wizard had not been picked up by the eavesdropping charm.
"Just told him what he needed to hear," Hadrian explained with a shrug at both Tom and Aiden. Adding through the bond they shared, 'I told him his daughter would go on to have three magically powerful offspring' knowing if he didn't tell Tom he would keep asking.
'That was not smart,' Tom uttered glaring at Hadrian heatedly, for his idiotic actions.
'Come on, Tom, it's not as if they'll ever get the real reason I know, they'll just think I'm clairvoyant or something, a seer or some shit' Hadrian said wryly, his amusement shooting down the bond along with his words. 'They'd have their selves admitted to St. Mungo's if it even crossed their minds what really happened'. Who in their right mind would think 'Master Of Death' not even Dumbledore would think it and he was obscenely obsessed with the Deathly Hallows.
Tom relaxed and conceded the truth in that statement, he also knew why he was going to such lengths as well to ensure things didn't change too much. At least yet. He did not want to be responsible for the 'death' of those he knew, failing to realize not being born wasn't the same as being killed. Plus, he couldn't deny that they were powerful, the witches, quite so, especially Bellatrix who he had seen in the pensive memories more than any other. Plus, Regulus and Sirius, Sirius who had been Harry's godfather and despite not knowing him long, had become very attached to the wizard. Understandably, due to his diabolical upbringing, Tom reckoned he'd attach himself to the first wizard who offered him a way out of the orphanage. Not true attachment of course, but using him to get what he wanted, as he always did. Except for Harry and his friends, who he was genuinely coming to care for much to his consternation. Then there was Fenrir, that little boy was burrowing into his cold heart, he was amusing to say the least. That and having someone to shape, to raise as his own, to mould…knowing how loyal he could be…it was heady to say the least.
"What were we talking about again?" Hadrian asked Imogen, ready to begin talking once more, "Something about goblins…"
"Goblins doing a ritual?" Imogen offered, a wry grin on her face remembering what had happened.
"Oh, yes, that," and with that Hadrian and Imogen began talking at length about everything they could think. Fast becoming friends, talking and laughing as if they had known each other for years, occasionally making sure Fenrir was fine and happy.
"Hadrian? It's time for the meal," Tom explained, turning to face his husband, his own voice a little tired due to the talking he'd been doing with everyone passing their table, all wanting to shake hands with the wizard who had defeated Grindelwald. Tom of course very shyly accepted their praise, insisting it was a joint effort from everyone involved. Hadrian remained deep in conversation with Imogen and he didn't disturb him, he knew Hadrian had no desire to talk to strangers, and quite frankly he was rather enjoying the attention on himself. 'And do stop monopolising Abraxas' betrothed, I think he's about to turn a very unattractive shade of red'
Hadrian was very surprised by that statement, his head snapped up, glancing at Abraxas immediately and noticed the tell-tale signs of looming anger despite the attempts at impassivity. A frown immediately marred his forehead, what the hell? Abraxas knew he was married, knew he was happy, they all did, he and Tom hadn't married out of convenience or arrangement for Merlin's sake. So, why the hell was he angry?
'How long has he been like this?' Hadrian asked mentally, shaking his head in confusion.
'Pretty much the entire hour and a half you and Ms. Dawlish have been conversing,' Tom replied with dry wit. Slightly surprised that Hadrian hadn't realized, he really must have been enjoying the conversation with the witch to have become a little lax in observing his surroundings.
"Fenrir do you need to go to the toilet before we eat?" Hadrian asked, inwardly pondering what to do with Abraxas.
Fenrir shook his head, no, he didn't need to go to the toilet.
"Very well, I'll be back in a bit," Hadrian said, giving Abraxas a look and nodding his head to the blonde, demanding that he follow without saying a damn thing or without too many people noticing, especially Imogen who was too busy smiling and speaking quietly with Fenrir with an adoring look on her face.
"I shall accompany you, please, excuse me," Abraxas said to his intended, as he stood, his manners as always impeccable despite his mood.
There was one other who was watching closely and noticed the interaction. Newt Scamander, who was at the party. He stood as well, and silently made his way towards the toilets along with Abraxas and Hadrian, not straying too close to them in order to avoid arousing suspicion.
"Alright, Abraxas, what is going on?" Hadrian asked, as soon as they stepped into the bathroom, after checking to make sure nobody was there, which was thankfully the case.
"Excuse me?" Abraxas asked in confusion.
"You do realize I'm married and bonded with Tom? Who I love?" Hadrian pointed out, washing his hands idly before turning to face the blonde. He did notice that the door hadn't closed properly, and knew Newt had been following him, Tom had informed him of that fact. Subtle he was not.
Abraxas remained stone-faced and silent.
"Talk to me," Hadrian said in a soft and soothing voice, "What's the matter?"
"She's spoken to you more tonight than I've managed to get out of her for the past year!" Abraxas cried out exasperated, unable to keep silent, as he was once again reminded that despite Hadrian being one half of the leader…he wasn't Tom and he did give out good advice, at least according to Orion.
"Ah, I see," Hadrian murmured, rubbing his forehead in exasperation, "And have you actually asked her why?" having a funny feeling he knew why exactly she hadn't spoken much with Abraxas.
"It's clear me she doesn't want to talk to me," Abraxas grumbled, rather upset.
"Do you often actually give her a chance to talk or do you shove your own ideals and belief's down her throat the seconds she opens her mouth about something?" Hadrian asked genuinely curious about the dynamics between them.
"I'm lucky if I can get her to open her mouth during our luncheons! I've even asked her about her favourite subjects but it's like getting blood from a runestone!" Abraxas puffed out indignantly, he was trying for Merlin's sake.
"How is her relationship with her parents?" Hadrian then asked, trying to get a clear picture.
"How do you mean?" Abraxas asked bewildered.
"Does she talk about them?" Hadrian asked, "What have your observations been? Has Dawlish ever expressed any concern about his daughter? Asked you to take care of her?"
"Of course I'll take care of her!" Abraxas puffed up indignantly.
"You're not listening to a damn word I'm saying," Hadrian retorted angrily, "Either listen and let us figure it out or just go back out there." Getting rather annoyed by Abraxas' attitude.
Abraxas calmed, breathing out, "She mentioned once that she couldn't wait until we were married and that she could have her own home. Asking just once if she would be able to decorate it."
"What was your answer?" Hadrian asked.
"I said, 'Of course, but all ideas go through me first for confirmation'," Abraxas replied, not able to look Hadrian in the eye.
"So basically told her she had no say in any part of her life, the house she wants to make for the both of you. She evidently doesn't have the strength to stand up for herself, so she's been raised as a typical submissive witch to go to a husband with no other value than continuing on your line. A doll to do as you please…a woman saying she basically couldn't wait to get away from her parents…it's not normal, how is her relationship with her parents? Has Dawlish's own wife even spoken up in your presence?" a lot could be said about a relationship a witch and wizard were in when they were in private.
Abraxas flinched at the disgust in Hadrian's voice.
"She doesn't, neither have, it was…well it was only myself, my father and Heir Dawlish that spoke," Abraxas conceded, not seeing anything remotely bad about it.
"Ever heard the saying, seen but not heard?" Hadrian asked wryly.
"Yes," Abraxas replied, "My father often muttered that while I was a young boy," and a bit too boisterous.
"That's how she's been raised I think, you are going to have to open up, tell her what you want from a wife, give her a freedom she's never had before…she's probably been taught all her life that her husband's will comes first, she's buried her own personality, her own wishes and desires deep down inside in order to live with what she's expected to be." Hadrian answered bluntly, "You want a wife? You want someone to talk to? Someone to be an equal to you in this marriage? Then bloody explain that, she can't read your mind, you can't pick and choose which part of an equal marriage you want, it will confuse the fuck out of her! She's a wonderful woman, very smart, she could keep up with you Abraxas, and she isn't any lesser to you because she's a woman, if she wasn't you'd damn well be the last of the Malfoy line. She's going to be the mother of your children, that deserves respect and a hell of a lot of consideration."
Abraxas looked shocked by the way Hadrian was speaking, he'd known out of everyone Hadrian would give it to him straight. Unfortunately, he hadn't even thought of half the things Hadrian had just laid on him.
"Today she must have been absolutely petrified of embarrassing you, of showing you up. She wants to like your friends, to like you, to be at least moderately happy in her life. I was the most approachable out of all of you, and that is why she wanted to speak to me, that and probably genuine curiosity over the book. The fact I didn't snub her, talk down to her or act as if it was a chore to speak to her probably eased her enough that she could talk to someone! She's a long way from all her friends, she grew up in France, she's been pulled yet again away from all she knew at her parents behest. Let her find her footing, friends, just…try and see it from her point of view Abraxas, or speak to Lucretia, Dorea, Walburga, at least they've been raised strong, and determined to have a say in their lives and not taking shit from any man. It seems Imogen…hasn't had that opportunity. Listen to what she says and Merlin, try and keep her parents out of it if she gives any indication that she doesn't want them in her life overly much."
The door opened interrupted their conversation, and Hadrian noticed Newt sliding away from the corner of his eye. Abraxas straightened completely, masks already in place when the wizard stepped in, going straight to the toilet stall.
"Just think on it," Hadrian commented, throwing the towel in the waste basket before ambling out. "Now let's go, before we're late for the meal." Which wouldn't happen of course, at least not for another hour or so.
They both made their way back to the ball, and it was much easier to get to their seats this time. Everyone was seated, there was no dancing, no people trying to talk to everyone as they all heartily and with great happiness sat down to their meals. Hadrian and Abraxas slid into their seats, noticing that everyone already had their food, and Tom had ordered for him. Abraxas plate was quickly filled with a few spoken words by Abraxas who was still slightly thoughtful and not paying one hundred percent attention to his surroundings.
Hadrian smiled at Tom in silent thanks, digging into his soup, which was the perfect eating temperature. Plucking two rolls from the centre and handing one to Fenrir and one for himself.
"Enjoying yourself?" Hadrian asked, focusing entirely on Tom as he absently ate the admittedly delicious soup, potato and leak, creamy and very nice, the House-elves they used had outdone themselves.
"It has been fruitful so far," Tom agreed, he'd spent a lot of time observing people and getting to know them, and there were a few he knew would back him if and when he went into politics. "There are quite a lot of Wizengamot members here,"
"Not surprising really, they do have the money and status to get to this thing," Hadrian conceded, "Myrtle's going to be absolutely furious with me when I get back to Hogwarts." Which was only a few days away, the fortnight holiday was nearly over with…and so much had happened.
"Haven't you written to her?" Aiden asked, slightly surprised, out of everyone not in the group…Myrtle he'd say was Hadrian's 'good friend' maybe even 'best friend' it was the sort of friendship that lasted no matter how often they talked or didn't as the case may be.
"Yeah, I let her know I was alive, after the attack and all that," Hadrian told Avery, "Haven't had a chance to actually sit down and write properly though. I did tell her I'd reveal everything when I got back to school after Yule holidays." He wasn't surprised Myrtle didn't have the connections to get invited to this though.
"She's still going to totally bombarda you over…" Avery went on to say, only to be interrupted, "Mr. Peverell-Slytherin, Sirs! A picture for the Daily Prophet! Smile!" and what felt like a dozens of flashes went off on Hadrian's face, a feral sort of sneer graced his face momentarily. "I would appreciate it if you actually asked our permission before taking our pictures."
Not that the reporter and his goon cared, thinking they already had what they wanted.
"Won't he be disappointed when nothing develops?" Hadrian said with a smug look on his face.
"What do you mean? How could you stop it?" Cygnus asked, his face rosy with drink and merriment. The rest of the Black's all turned to Hadrian curious as well, as far as they knew, there was no such spell that would stop photo's from developing.
"A spell," Hadrian shrugged, it attached itself to the lens and prevented any of the pictures from being taken. Any that were developed – well from now anyway – would be blurry images that were no use to him or anyone.
"Where do you come up with all this? Like seriously?" Lucretia asked in exasperation, "How many spells have you created? How many potions? And you've only been here what a few years? You're a hell of a spell crafter." How he would choose a career she did not know.
"Potions, spells and books?" Imogen said, "What career do you see for yourself after you're finished with your schooling?"
"There's a lot I want to do," Hadrian confessed, grateful to see that Abraxas wasn't annoyed with the fact they were conversing. "I think I'll be continuing all three…but primarily publishing for now.."
"We have our own publishing company," Avery stated smugly, "With Hadrian's book constantly at number one it will flourish," he'd sank a lot of money into it too, not his parents money, his. Using his trust vault to do so, he was already seeing money coming back.
"You say that like it isn't already?" Hadrian said wryly, he knew the interest the company was getting better than most. He kept a good eye on all his investments at least once a day to ensure there was no funny business and the Goblins did as well. He'd had others trying to invest in it as well, but Hadrian had no need for others interest or investing in it. "Plus, I have a feeling that another book will wipe me off the number one spot," he said mysteriously, a small smile playing across his face when he thought of Newts book.
"Oh? You've been reading manuscripts too?" Dorea asked, curiosity getting the better of her.
"Oh, yes, I had a lot of resting to do," Hadrian admitted, he had employees who dealt with the day to day running of Avery & Peverell-Slytherin publishing, and so far they were doing a wonderful job. "It's already accepted, it's just undergoing editing then it will be published sometime at the end of January beginning of February depending on how long it takes to get agreements on the editing, pictures the front and things like that."
"It's difficult to believe you have your own companies, your own employees and you're both still at Hogwarts." Imogen admitted, "And a child to take care of," Fenrir was just adorable.
"We're emancipated, we aren't children," Hadrian commented, shrugging his shoulders dismissively. He didn't want anyone treating him like one either.
"What are you going to do with Fenrir's education and wellbeing while you're both at Hogwarts?" Imogen asked, "If you're looking for someone to take care of him…I would be more than happy to offer my services!" before realizing she may have spoken out of turn, a quick glance at Abraxas showed her apprehension.
"You don't need the money…" Abraxas started before pausing, Hadrian's words ringing in his ears, "But if its something you want to do, I will support you," it would only be for a short while anyway, because he and Imogen planned on starting their own family.
Imogen startled at that, "Really? You mean that?" 'and you're not just saying it in front of your friends' definitely went heard.
Abraxas placed his hands in hers, "Of course," he really liked the way her entire face brightened up, and just because he had agreed to let her do something. She was happy, and Abraxas felt a sense of accomplishment. It bolstered his spirits. Maybe he would be able to have conversations with her like she'd had with Hadrian earlier. He blatantly ignored the smirking Hadrian was doing, and more so the smirk spreading across Tom's face. Honestly, it was like those two could converse mentally all the time. They didn't even need to talk to each other.
"What do you think Fenrir? Would you like to see Imogen sometimes?" Hadrian asked thoughtfully.
Fenrir just shrugged indifferently, he didn't care either way. He missed Tom and Hadrian when they were away, but he didn't mind being on his own. Imogen was nice, she'd paid attention to him, and helped him colour in.
"We'll discuss it another time?" Hadrian informed Imogen, before they headed back to Hogwarts. Tom had already sifted through tutors for Fenrir, but if they could get someone they actually knew it would be best. Plus, a women might make feel Fenrir more at ease.
"Indeed, tonight is for you," Imogen said properly, giving him a rare genuine smile.
"Don't remind me," Hadrian sighed in exasperation, choosing a main meal for both Fenrir and himself from the menu of what they had on offer. Getting a rib steak meal for Fenrir and himself, the second it appeared it looked mouth-wateringly good. Tom, Hadrian noticed had chosen the same.
"You don't want to be here? Are you mad?" Abraxas asked, gaping, "You're…" he couldn't explain even if he tried.
Hadrian just smirked wryly, "I'm just not into all this schmoozing, this isn't for us, it's for the Ministry to show case they have our support…that we are allied, to get more money and inevitable more support themselves." The Ministry didn't do anything out of the goodness of their hearts, Hadrian had learned that very early on. With his piece said, he begun to eat his meal with relish.
"But it will give you support as well," Abraxas pointed out, "Both of you, it will allow you to go far," and both of them would, of that he had no doubt, it's why he was following them so ardently.
Tom smirked, "It definitely will," he commented, and that was why he was here, making connections and planning ahead. He couldn't wait until he was out of Hogwarts and doing this full time, it was going to be so much fun having everyone eating out of the palm of his hand.
"What's your new book about, anyway, Hadrian?" Dorea asked, turning her attention back to the table after conversing with Charles for the past ten minutes, who was at the table next to them.
"Actually, it's about the Celtic celebrations and rituals, and our traditions, to give those Muggle raised a chance to better understand the magical world." Hadrian informed them, "I used a lot of information from books from the Peverell vault, these books are so rare that Muggle raised students don't have a chance to read or understand out traditions. If we have any hope of bringing them back…then they must be educated."
"You should speak to Professor Adage about that," Alphard spoke, wiping his mouth with his napkin, "Perhaps even Professor Binn's, that way it would be compulsory to learn," that would ensure they all learned about it.
"It would be, but I don't have any say in the curriculum at Hogwarts," Hadrian said amused.
"No, but a suggestion goes a long way," Orion conceded, "Sparks an idea, they might like the idea."
"Dippet would allow it, I can't see him saying no," Cygnus agreed, he seemed to have a soft spot for both Tom and Hadrian. "I had no idea you were even writing about something like that, I would have liked to have offered my own input."
"No, it's a neutral view, I tried not to put my own personal feelings anywhere near it," Hadrian shook his head, "Plain enough that they will understand our ways without any influence. They get to decide whether they would like to perform the rituals and we might be able to bring them back mainstream."
"It would be amazing," Dolohov agreed wholeheartedly, vividly remembering his passionate speech on the train. "Did you go about explaining why it faded from the mainstream?"
"Yes," Hadrian nodded, but the fact remained the Muggles kept a better record of their history than the magical world. Slightly surprised by Dolohov's warm-ish nature. Normally, Dolohov could barely stand him in all honesty. Was it the drink? The win? The popularity? The camaraderie? Or perhaps a combination of all these things. Or was it his turn to pull an Carrow and an Avery, it had taken those two aforementioned wizards, a very, very long time to get on with him. Hadrian wasn't sure if it was jealousy, spite or just genuine dislike, but Carrow and Avery had not liked him, admittedly Carrow's dislike didn't extend to trying to kill him like Aiden had tried to do. Dolohov since integrating into the group had…set Hadrian on edge. He put up with it, knowing he wasn't going to always like all of them.
"When you plan to publish this one?" Walburga asked, wiping her mouth and placing her used cutlery on the plate in a specific pattern.
Hadrian finished swallowing his own food before he spoke, "At least a month, perhaps less, everything is all set, they just need to be published."
"I don't suppose you'll give us a signed early copy?" Walburga asked, a hopeful look on her face.
Hadrian scoffed a little, rolling his eyes, "That doesn't work on me," he informed her, pointing his knife along with his hand at her, which was rude. Especially not considering he'd seen her a shrieking old nasty hag of a woman. "I've made it so that ten are sent to the authors, more than that they have to ask, so I will probably get that ten as well. I might send out one or two, might," he wasn't going to promise them something and then not go through with it.
Glancing and nodding when he noticed that Fenrir needed the toilet yet again, and was asking Tom to take him. "Whiskey?" he mouthed to Tom, who nodded in turn, Hadrian was quick to order two butterbeers, a shot of firewhisky and a normal glass of whiskey for Tom with ice. He spelled the glasses so that if anything – or anyone – went anywhere near them he'd know.
"Did you dress him?" Lucretia asked, watching Tom and Fenrir leave the room, rubbing her temples, the music was beginning to give her a little headache. That and the drinking she'd been doing, just because they wouldn't serve her…didn't mean that they didn't find alternative ways to have a drink.
"I bought it, yes," Hadrian said wryly, eyeing her with amusement, "Thinking of having one?"
"No," Lucretia declared stiffly, to the surprise of everyone except Hadrian, Dorea and Walburga the boys looked aghast.
"You can have a career and be a mother, Luc, being a mother isn't…a weakness, isn't pathetic because it's 'expected of you' unless…you think that of me and Tom?" Hadrian asked, green eye gleaming with power and ferocity.
Lucretia startled at the nickname, nobody outside of her immediate family (which was a large family) ever gave her a nickname before. It was also very rarely used, they'd been raised 'proper' which meant manners had been drummed into them from a very, very young age. Lucretia said nothing to Hadrian, merely frowned as she ordered herself her dessert.
"It's right after dessert they begin giving out the medals isn't it not?" Hadrian asked, stifling a yawn, moving closer when he was asked kindly for a photo, by Marion, the woman and her partner, who had previously came to Peverell manor for an interview in the past. The three smiled for the picture, spoke for a bit before she moved on to take pictures of everyone.
"They said at least fifteen-twenty minutes after dessert," Tom corrected Hadrian as he sipped his whiskey, ignoring the jealous looks coming off his 'friends', who were still very much underage and couldn't be seen just outright drinking, no they had to be sneaky. Mostly getting older siblings to help them through bribery or blackmail.
"Think they're going to be able to walk in a straight line to go up on stage?" Hadrian waved his hand towards them, and they paled drastically, they hadn't thought of that, if they showed up their parents…they would never hear the end of it.
"Crap," croaked Alphard, shuddering at the mere thought of his parents turning their ire upon him after being proud of him just moments before.
"Here, sober up, at least for a little bit, and for Merlin's sake, eat something, a mint, your breath smells of alcohol." Hadrian chortled, handing each of them a sober-up draught. It was very similar to the Pepper-Up draught, just with a little something extra, a kick, that a Pepper-Up didn't have. He handed one to Tom as well, even through he'd only had three fire whiskey's in total, it was more than they'd normally drink. There was a time and a place to get you're used to alcohol but it wasn't today.
"Pot, Kettle, Black," Dolohov uttered, shaking his head.
After consuming the draught they ate their dessert as they became a lot more alert. Tom drifted two tables down, speaking to a few others Hadrian wasn't familiar with. Fenrir remained by his side during that time, with a set of Rune domino's to play with, and Hadrian did play with him while keeping up and adding his own thoughts into the conversations.
That was until a 'Sonorous' had everyone turning to the stage, it was time. Hadrian drowned out the majority of the speech, which rehashed everything that had happened. How they were horrifically 'ambushed' and if it hadn't been for Hadrian's quick reflexes they would have all perished in the explosion. Turning Grindelwald's death into a love story of the ages. How Tom had reacted to save the 'love of his life' quite honestly, Tom and Hadrian had to refrain from gagging at the way they said it. Fortunately, they kept a straight face, for that was how they wanted the world to see them. It wasn't far from the truth though, they would kill for each other.
"Without more ado, I'd like to welcome to the stage…" the Minister begun, accepting one of the medals from his undersecretary. "Aiden Avery," beginning the process of awarding them the Order of Merlin medal first class to those who had ended Grindelwald's reign at near personal cost.