A/N: This chapter seems even to me rather out of tone compared to the rest of the story thus far. In the initial plan chapters 8 and 9 were only one chapter. I had split them because it was too long. Still, there are some things that must be done and this chapter contains them. There are some new elements introduced, as well as taking a shot at a character. Still, do not be discouraged, this is merely the calm before the storm. It will be many months before our characters will have such peaceful moments again. If they ever will…

On a happy note, the story has exceeded 100 pages. Rejoice!

Narcissa was just adding the final touches to her appearance, as the clock struck the sixth hour. After much deliberation it was determined that the Blacks would make an appearance to the Ministry Ball after all. It would silence the gossipers and proclaim to the world that nothing could stop the Most Ancient and Noble House of Black.

To say that their reputation was not affected by Andromeda's betrayal would have been a lie. Hushed voices and gossip was not something Narcissa was used to seeing directed at her. Yet, since the unfortunate events with their mother, as well as her father bursting into Hogwarts and being stopped by Dumbledore that was all she seemed to be getting, whenever she left Ravensden.

Witches who would not have dared raised their eyes towards a Black now pointed and hushed their voices wherever Narcissa went. Frankly, she had had enough. Certainly, the special report the Daily Prophet had run on the event did not help matters. The next day the Director of the Daily Prophet was sacked with no job prospects to look at from any major newspapers. One did not trifle with the Blacks and come unscathed out of it. What could be done to contain the matter had been done.

Still, the Blacks would go to the Ball with their heads held high and no mention of Andromeda would be tolerated. In their eyes, she had ceased to exist. Druella could not attend the ball, although she insisted she was fine. She had woken up the day after her heart attack, but she did not know of Andromeda's departure or Cygnus' actions yet. To protect her from any undue shock the House Elves and the various Wizarding staff were forbidden to even mention Andromeda around their Mistress. Although she had conceded that she would have to stay at Ravensden, she did not want to hear any suggestion that someone stayed with her.

'I am not a child, Cygnus,' said Druella, 'I can take care of myself perfectly well. I insist you all go and enjoy yourselves.'

'I will make an appearance,' said Cygnus, 'but I won't stay long.'

'Very well, darling.'

Bellatrix had hardened towards her sister and even the slightest mention of Andromeda would be enough to send her into an uncontrollable rage. Narcissa outwardly appeared calm, but inside she was frightened to no extent. Humiliation was not something the Blacks were used to. The lavishly appointed carriage that pulled up in front of Ravensden, bearing the coat of arms of the House of Malfoy was the sign that life went on.

'Mistress, Master Malfoy has arrived,' said Famulus, bowing down to the floor, 'He told me to let you know he awaits you at your leisure.'

'Thank you, Famulus,' said Narcissa, checking herself in the mirror once more, to make sure.

'You look fabulous my dear,' said the mirror, beaming with happiness, 'Lucius is going to have trouble keeping his hands to himself tonight. Who knows? Perhaps he will invite you afterwards for a drink at his house.'

'Has anyone told you how perverse your thinking is, mirror?' said Narcissa.

'Once, by your mother. Three times by your grandmother Irma. Twice by your Aunt Walpurga, although she secretly enjoyed it. Your great-grandmother Violetta threatened to have me replaced, although her husband forbid it,' said the mirror, 'now that I think about it even Elladora, and then there is Ursula Flint and...'

'All right, all right,' said Narcissa, 'If they haven't managed, who am I to try to change you.'

'A most wise course of action, Narcissa,' said the mirror pompously, looking rather smug.

'Although perhaps I want to go for after drinks with Lucius,' added Narcissa, just as she was exiting her room.

'Narcissa!' yelled the mirror, 'why I never knew it. We are one and the same. Have a nice evening dear.'

'Thank you, I will.'

Lucius had been greeted at the door by the Chief House Elf, but had been shortly after monopolized by Cygnus.

'Come, Lucius, let us have a drink,' said Cygnus, politely, but firmly inviting him to the drawing room. Never one to lose his calm in a situation, his courage supplemented by the near Olympian arrogance of the Malfoy family, Lucius followed him to the drawing room.

'To your wife's health, sir,' said Lucius, raising his glass slightly.

'To her health,' added Cygnus, before draining his glass. 'This is rather related to her health, actually.'

'If there is anything we can do, to help, I am sure father would be most delighted to,' said Lucius.

'Much obliged, Lucius,' said Cygnus, 'Abraxas has already made the offer, but I assure you it won't be needed. Now, I have always prided myself in the liberty I have given my daughters. Perhaps that was the wrong course to take, considering, but still I have faith in Narcissa and Bellatrix.'

'You have two perfect daughters, sir,' said Lucius.

'Truer words have never been spoken, Lucius,' said Cygnus, 'I have two daughters. I don't mean to be unkind or rude, but words of your reputation have reached even my ears.' Lucius had the decency to lower his eyes for a second, but had quickly recovered, raising his head once more.

'I ensure you that my reputation…' started Lucius, before being cut off making him slightly unnerved, as he was used to being listened to, not interrupted.

'There is no need to hide behind our fingers Lucius,' said Cygnus, 'what is between you and my daughter is your business, not mine. All I ask is that you give me your word that no matter what, you will treat her with respect.'

'I give you my word as a pureblood that I hold nothing but the highest respect, admiration and affection for Narcissa,' said Lucius, just as Narcissa entered the room. She was gracious enough not to inquire as to their discussion, although Lucius' proclamation did bring a smile onto her face.

'That is all I wanted Lucius,' said Cygnus, 'now I believe I have suddenly become superfluous. I will leave you two. Darling, do you promise to reserve a dance for your old father as well?'

'You're not that old, daddy,' said Narcissa, 'and I will always have a dance for you.'

'See you at the Ministry,' said Cygnus, walking out of the drawing room.

'Lucius', said Narcissa standing up on her toes and giving him a chaste kiss on the lips.

'Narcissa, you look lovely my dear,' said Lucius, moving away and making a show of admiring her.

'Thank you,' said Narcissa, 'You look very good as well.'

'Shall we go?' asked Lucius, offering his arm. Narcissa took his arm, then followed him to the carriage, laughing at a joke he had made.

Cygnus was looking from a window at the two. Narcissa certainly seemed happy enough for him to not worry and Abraxas' son while known as a womanizer was a man of his word. One thing seemed to bother him, but he could not realize why. Perhaps he was getting old. After all, it was the first ball where he would go by himself, while his daughters both had dates. He definitely would not stay long though, with Druella home alone. Just as his eyes followed the carriage, another intersected its path, the two stopping on the road. The window opened, and Cygnus could see Rodolphus' head, chatting with Lucius and Narcissa.

'Famulus,' said Cygnus.

'Master called,' said the elf.

'Go announce Bellatrix that Rodolphus has arrived.'

Bellatrix was of course not ready and yelled at the elf to stop bothering her if he enjoyed all his limbs attached the way they were. Rodolphus laughed as he heard her shout at the top of the lungs.

'You'll have to excuse Bellatrix,' said Cygnus, 'she gets rather angry when rushed.'

'Oh no, sir, I enjoy it,' said Rodolphus. Cygnus could not see how, but then he had Druella for comparison, who had not lost her temper once in their marriage.

'Actually sir, this is rather convenient,' said Rodolphus, 'if I may have a word.'

'Of course, Rodolphus, speak your mind,' said Cygnus.

'I would rather we spoke in private, sir,' said Rodolphus.

'Of course, follow me to the study,' said Cygnus, leading the way.

Once they were seated, Rodolphus revealed the reason for privacy.

'Sir, I wanted to ask your daughter's hand in marriage,' said Rodolphus. Frankly, despite all his wife's suspicions of the two, this is not what he had in mind when Rodolphus wanted to speak to him in private. His silence seemed to make Rodolphus rather uncomfortable.

'I apologize, Rodolphus, you just took me by surprise,' said Cygnus, 'are you sure? Isn't it rather rushing things? You have the rest of your life to live. You don't need to get engaged straight out of Hogwarts.'

'Sir, I am determined to marry your daughter,' said Rodolphus, 'and I don't see the advantage of waiting several more years.'

'Do you have your father's permission?' asked Cygnus.

'He said he would be delighted to unite our families,' said Rodolphus.

'Very well, you're a good man Rodolphus, I trust you,' said Cygnus, 'you have my permission. Although you must understand, the decision is ultimately Bella's.'

'I wouldn't have it any other way, sir,' said Rodolphus, 'I plan to ask her tonight after the ball.'

'Rodolphus? Daddy?' Bella's voice could be heard even through the double doors of Cygnus' study.

'That would be my daughter looking for you,' said Cygnus, 'you children go, I will come later.'

'Are you sure you don't want to come with us, sir?' asked Rodolphus, 'there is plenty of room in the carriage.'

'I am sure you don't want your girlfriend's father on the carriage ride to the Ministry,' said Cygnus, 'I definitely didn't. Plus I have to keep my horses active.'

'Very well,' said Rodolphus, grinning, 'I don't think it's a good idea to keep Bella waiting any longer.'

'Probably not,' remarked Cygnus, dismissing Rodolphus. Dear Merlin, if there were to be any more announcements regarding his daughters today he would start feeling as old as Dumbledore. Cygnus locked his study then went upstairs to finish dressing and take his goodbyes from his wife.

This part of the Ministry of Magic complex was the oldest wing, predating even the noble ancestries of the purest of families. In a time when Muggles were struggling with the Dark Ages, advancement stifled, the Warlock Council of Britain was passing through a Golden Age, a Renaissance of Power. It was at that time that the Old Hall was built. Ironically, once completed it was deigned the New Hall, but with the construction of the Palace of Lords and the addition of the underground wing of the Ministry, the naming changed.

Nowadays the Grand Ballroom of the Old Hall was used sparsely, mostly as a place to keep relics of better times and for state occasions. Still, the Christmas Ministry Ball was one of the occasions when the doors of the Old Hall would be opened, the dust cleansed by hand, so as to not affect the aging spells used in the construction and invitations would be sent out to the prominent members of society.

The First Auror Regiment, whose duties included guarding the Palace, Ministry, and the various state officials, were posted at the doors, dressed in Parade Robes, at the gates and along the Alley that led up to the Old Hall. The revelry and festive atmosphere showed that the Magical society was not willing to succumb to fear and would ensure that millennia old traditions continued unhindered. Still, a practical wizard, Barty Crouch had also deployed the Second Auror Regiment, lacking the pomp and heraldry of the First, being dressed in plain robes, but just as effective with a wand, if not more so.

A carriage bearing the coat of arms of the House of Malfoy made its way down the Alley, crossing under the gate unobstructed, rounding off at the fountain. An Auror opened the door, allowing Lucius Malfoy to exit. The Auror bowed slightly, as Lucius extended a gloved hand to help Narcissa Black to descend. The second Narcissa's golden locks could be seen, reporters swarmed the couple, each trying to get the best shot of the young couple. After all, the Ministry Ball special edition papers sold extremely well.

Lucius and Narcissa paused for a few seconds, smiling at the cameras, while Lucius subconsciously pulled Narcissa a bit closer to himself. As he saw the second carriage entering the gate from the corner of his eye, not wishing to stand outside anymore, he made a discreet signal to the Auror who waited patiently next to him.

'All right, gentlemen and ladies,' said the Auror, moving to clear a path through the crowd, 'allow Mr. Malfoy and Miss Black to pass.'

The reporters moved aside respectfully, although a few brave souls did try to ask the two some questions. The Auror did not intervene, but at the first mention of “Andromeda Black” he had called for the other Auror Guards and they formed a cordon to allow the young couple to pass.

'Thank you,' said Lucius, as they passed the Auror Guard.

'Just doing my duty, young sir,' replied the Auror, bowing his head slightly.

Lucius could not help but fell pride as he walked down the path towards the Old Hall, Narcissa Black at his arm, flanked by statues of the great wizards of ancient times- Great Aurors, Important Ministers, Majestic Lords. What were the wizards of today compared to their glorious ancestors? The truly great ones held a place of Honour inside the Entrance Hall.

A raised platform held the statues of the Four Founders of Hogwarts at its corners. The statues themselves were magnificent, sculpted by the great Midas himself in the finest marble. Even in death, Rowena Ravenclaw, Helga Hufflepuff, Godric Gryffindor and the greatest of them, according to Lucius, Salazar Slytherin, guarded their magical brethren.

Out of habit, Lucius raised his eyes to the domed ceiling. The original ceiling was, sadly, lost in the Goblin rebellion of 1058. An illustration still existed in the History books, although it was of poor quality. The fresco had been destroyed as the Goblins sallied out of Gringotts and set fire to the Old Hall. They were beaten back, but the damage was irreparable. The domed ceiling had been left unpainted until the disbanding of the Warlock Council in 1102 and the establishment of the Lords of the Realm. From then on it bore the coat of arms of each of the Great Noble Houses, actualized to date as certain families were extinguished and others were elevated to the nobility.

The statues of the Four Founders were, also added at a later day, however. The one statue that had been there since the construction of the Old Hall stood in an alcove at the far wall. Although of a lesser quality of execution than the four founders, it was one of the most prized possessions of Magical England. It depicted an old warlock, wearing a hooded cloak and robes, with a tall staff and a beard that reached halfway down his chest. An inscription had been added on the pedestal.

'Merlinus Aeternae Gloriae'

As was the custom, Lucius and Narcissa made their way towards the statue of Merlin, made the short bow and only after that continued their way to the Grand Ballroom to the right.

The Ballroom in itself was a magnificent sight. Its opulence could not be compared to the Palace of the Lords, but it held a special place in the hearts of every witch and wizard present.

The walls were decorated with frescoes detailing the History of Magical Britain. The fall of Rome to the barbarian tribes, the Flight to Britannia, the struggle between Merlin and Morgan Le Fay, the death of Merlin, the Construction of Hogwarts. All these glorious scenes reminded the audience of the burden of history on their shoulders, and proclaimed to the visiting dignitaries the proud history of Magical Britain.

The ballroom was half full by now, and although Lucius and Narcissa were amongst the first guests of status, they were still fashionably late. It seemed like it took ages to cross the Ballroom as several people wanted to exchange a word or two with the young couple.

'Do you ever wonder how we know all these people?' whispered Narcissa after meeting with what seemed the fifth business owner of the day.

'I stopped wondering a long time ago,' shrugged Lucius, 'they know us, but I certainly don't know them.'

'That's not what I meant, Lucius,' said Narcissa, 'of course they know us, but some even seemed to have the impression we knew them.'

'Deluded illusions of grandeur from their part my dear,' said Lucius, 'nothing to worry about.'

'Why, Lucius, since when have I become your dear,' asked Narcissa, flirtatiously. Lucius lowered his head to her ear and whispered something that made Narcissa blush.

'You know, you could let me have the upper hand once,' said Narcissa using her handkerchief to dab at her face, until her face stopped burning.

'Perhaps, but I like it when you try,' said Lucius, 'if I did you may stop trying. Now there is someone at least worthy to meet.'

Minister of Magic Millicent Bagnold was currently making her way through the crowd towards the two. Lucius bowed his head slightly.

'Lucius Malfoy,' said the Minister, 'and Narcissa Black, what a pleasure to see you both.'

'The pleasure is entirely ours, Minister,' said Narcissa. 'How are you tonight?'

'Very good, I am glad the Ball has finally started,' said Millicent, 'I did try to have Cornelius organize it this year, but the poor dear is terrible at such things, so I had to step in. It has been one hectic month, I tell you. All these foreign dignitaries too!'

'A pity, Minister,' said Lucius, 'the Minister of Magic should not have to bother herself with such details. You certainly deserve better staff.'

'Was that a job request, Lucius?' said Milicent.

'No, Minister, I am afraid I will have to refuse,' said Lucius, 'thank you for the offer, though.' Millicent laughed, although it was somewhat stretched thin.

'What can we expect from you this coming year, Lucius?' asked the Minister.

'I can't say,' said Lucius, 'I must keep my mysterious air about me.'

'Well, whatever it is, I am sure it will keep you busy and satisfied,' said Millicent, 'but I am afraid I am cutting in on Narcissa's time. Enjoy yourselves, dears.'

'Strange,' said Lucius, looking at the Minister's retreating back.

'Why so?' asked Narcissa, slowly stirring Lucius towards a séparée in the back of the ballroom.

'The Minister, she seemed rather chatty, didn't she?' said Lucius.

'She was scared,' said Narcissa, 'she must feel that she is losing support, so she seeks future allies. The Malfoy heir would certainly be a powerful political ally in the future.'

'Narcissa, I never knew you followed politics,' teased Lucius, 'what would your father say?'

'I don't follow politics,' said Narcissa, 'I merely keep myself interested of current events.'

'No matter, I rather like it,' said Lucius, smiling at her.

'Lucius Malfoy,' said a tall man, wearing white robes, approaching Narcissa and him.

'I am sorry, sir, I don't think we have met,' said Lucius, mildly intrigued, 'Narcissa, do you know him?'

'No I don't think, I do, actually,' said Narcissa, 'and I know anyone who is worth knowing here.'

'Yes, he rather doesn't look like much,' said Lucius, catching on to Cissy's game.

The man was currently getting red faced, but he restrained from causing your scene.

'I am Igor Karkaroff,' said the man, 'now does that settle your concerns?'

'Doesn't ring a bell, I am sorry,' said Lucius, 'what about you Narcissa?'

'I can't say,' said Narcissa, 'the name does ring a bell. Ah, I know, you must be from the press. I am sorry; Lucius and I don't want to give out any interviews right now.'

'I am afraid what Narcissa wants, Narcissa gets, Mr. Karkaroff,' said Lucius, 'good evening.'

Igor Karkaroff was left fuming, having failed his objective for the evening from the beginning. Not to say that he had been mocked by two who were still in Hogwarts. Igor had had contact with Pureblood nobility before, but hanging with the disgruntled sons of minor lords at questionable locals did not prepare one for meeting with the Blacks or the Malfoys.

'Now while I admit I enjoyed that,' said Narcissa, 'why did we antagonize the man?'

'The name Igor Karkaroff does ring a bell,' admitted Lucius, 'but not one I am interested in. He is connected to Lord Voldemort.'

As they sat down, finally after having spoken to half the ballroom, Bella and Rodolphus entered the chamber. The crowd seemed to animate again, and soon a barrier of enthusiastic witches and wizards separated the four. Rodolphus, less tactful than Lucius, made his way through the crowd, repeating the same phrases, “A pleasure to see you too, Please excuse me, I really must be going”. They had left behind a crowd of offended witches and wizards, but had crossed the crowd in record time.

'Cissy, dear Merlin, it's been ages since I last saw you,' said Bella, as she was sitting down.

'I know,' said Narcissa, 'you look lovely. You must come over for tea some time.'

Rodolphus and Lucius exchanged confused glances, but passed it off as a Black eccentricity.

'Private joke,' said Narcissa, 'perhaps I will share it with you one day.'

'Keep your secrets if you must,' said Lucius dramatically, 'now does anyone want anything to drink?'

'I think I have a better idea,' said Narcissa, as the orchestra started playing Dyonia's “Flight from Rome”,'dance with me, please.'

'Certainly', said Lucius, 'if the Miss wishes it.'

The slow dance was considered a necessity for every single important gathering, and was a favourite with British witches and wizards, regardless of age. Both Lucius, whose mother greatly enjoyed dancing, and Narcissa, whose father had given her a dance instructor on her 12th birthday, were excellent dancers. The audience was dazzled as the couples moved in perfect synchrony with the music.

'They make quite a pair, don't they?' asked Bella, looking at her sister and Lucius.

'Not as good as us,' said Rodolphus, earning himself a smile.

Abraxas and Cygnus entered the ballroom, saluted the children, and left to be with Dimitry and his wife, leaving the children alone.

The spirit of revelry was in the air, banishing away all worries their world had for one night at least. Every single witch and wizard seemed to enjoy themselves, laughing, flirting, dancing and drinking. Barty Crouch was still suspiciously patrolling the grounds with the Aurors, exiting the Ballroom every half an hour to ensure that the order was being maintained, but none seemed to notice his absence.

Even Abraxas had a good time, drinking with his friends and speaking of their youth. Cygnus had excused himself, saying he had to go home to Druella and after taking his goodbyes from the children had left for Ravensden. Dimitry, who had had perhaps a little too much wine had invited his wife for a walk outside to clear his head. Abraxas was left alone in the Ballroom. Just as he was about to go join some fellow Lords across the chamber, a young girl came towards him.

'Lord Malfoy, I have been dying to meet you,' said a young girl, perhaps only a year older than his own son.

'I don't think I've had the pleasure, Miss?' replied Abraxas.

'Giulia Zabini, Lord Malfoy,' said the girl.

'Ah, you must be the daughter of Ambassador Zabini,' said Abraxas, kissing Giulia's outstretched hand. 'How are you enjoying dreary old England?'

'I am delighted to be here,' said Giulia, batting her eyelashes flirtatiously, 'Italy has become so provincial lately.'

'We're glad to be your hosts, Miss Zabini,' said Abraxas.

'This place is magnificent, Lord Malfoy,' said Giulia, gesturing at the ballroom, 'I've been dieing to sample some English hospitality, first hand,' said Giulia, laying a hand on Abraxas' shoulder. 'Perhaps you can show me around?'

'I don't think that would be entirely appropriate, Miss Zabini,' said Abraxas, his eyes searching around for a solution, 'I am sure someone closer to your age, like Rabastan Lestrange could have the honour.'

'Oh, but I've always preferred someone more mature, more…' said Giulia, moving closer to Abraxas. She didn't get a chance to finish her sentence, as her father had shown up. Abraxas' mind was quickly trying to come up with an excuse. It would not do to upset the Italian Ambassador on a mere trifle such as this girl. Thankfully, Ambassador Zabini seemed to know exactly what was going on.

'Giulia,' snapped Zabini, causing her daughter to flinch, 'Lord Malfoy, I hope she was not bothering you.'

'Not at all, Ambassador,' said Abraxas diplomatically, 'we were merely discussing the differences between England and Italy.'

'Giulia, dear, there is someone I want you to meet,' said the Ambassador, laying a hand on her arm and dragging her slightly away from the Malfoy patriarch. Giulia seemed annoyed arguing with her father in rapid Italian, but still found the time to turn around and give Abraxas a saucy wink. Abraxas shook his head slightly, wondering what scandals could be expected from the girl in the future.

Lucius and Rodolphus had a moment to themselves, since Bella and Narcissa had left cryptically to discuss something. Rabastan was currently trying to charm Marie Parkinson, leaving Lucius alone with his friend.

'Have you heard of Lord Voldemort, Lucius?' asked Rodolphus, lowering his voice.

'Who hasn't?' said Lucius, 'I heard there was talk of inviting him to the Ministry Ball to be decorated. Highly unprecedented, you know.'

'I heard things, Lucius, people who have joined him,' said Rodolphus.

'And?' interjected Lucius

'Aren't you even mildly interested?' asked Rodolphus, 'Truthfully, I find he and I agree on a great many things.'

'Don't be foolish Rodolphus,' said Lucius, 'what have we to gain from siding with him? We are already at the tip of the pyramid. We have nothing to gain and potentially much to lose. Who joined him? All the frustrated people in our society. I don't consider myself frustrated or needing social advancement.'

'It would be a glorious thing, Lucius,' said Rodolphus, 'to be out on the frontline, fighting for our world. I don't see myself tied to a desk after finishing Hogwarts.'

'You don't have to, Rodolphus,' said Lucius, 'take Bella, go on a tour of Europe, go visit Egypt, go build a tree house if you want some excitement. But speak no more of this; I am not interested in Lord Voldemort.'

Just then, the ladies had returned, slightly flushed, laughing about something to do with Marie Parkinson. Bella was the first to catch on to the slight chill between Lucius and Rodolphus.

'Have you boys been fighting,' mocked Bella, in a motherly scold, leaning on Rodolphus. Narcissa laughed, grabbing Lucius' arm.

'Merely a difference in opinion, Bella,' said Lucius, 'now what were you ladies doing?'

'Oh, this and that,' said Narcissa, causing Bella to burst into laughter. That seemed to calm things down, as Rodolphus and Lucius shared a briefly annoyed look.

'Well, it is getting rather late,' said Rodolphus, hitting Bella's leg under the table.

'Yes, we really must be going,' said Bellatrix, standing up, taking a quick good bye from Lucius and Narcissa, and then practically running towards their carriage.

'The two are incorrigible,' said Narcissa, 'knowing Bella they are probably dismissing the driver right now and rushing to the Lestrange townhouse.'

'Ah well,' said Lucius, 'what do you want to then?'

'Dismiss the driver and rush to your townhouse,' said Narcissa, standing up. Lucius chuckled slightly, but called for one of the staff to have his carriage pulled upfront.

In fact Bella and Rodolphus had not dismissed the driver. They had not bothered with him, they Apparated directly to the Lestrange townhouse. The driver had remained at the Ministry until the last guest left, spending a rather uncomfortable night on the bench of the carriage.

As Bella and Rodolphus were struggling to undress themselves, Rodolphus, in his inspiration decided it was time to take matters into his own hand. Pulling the engagement ring from where he had fiddled with it all night, in his robes, he got down on one knee. The scene would have been romantic, had Bella not been missing half her clothes and Rodolphus missing various clothing items and his boots.

'Bellatrix, would you do me the honour of marrying me?' said Rodolphus, in all seriousness. Bella smiled, but said nothing. Several minutes passed until Rodolphus' knee began to hurt. Still, he did not get up, or say another word.

'Oh, I guess I can fit it into my schedule,' said Bella, laughing, 'get up you clown.'

Rodolphus had managed to put the ring on her hand, but the precious antique box the ring had come in flew out the window as Bella tackled him to the bed. Suffice to say that they did not get much sleep that night.

The next morning as an old witch got out of her house for her morning walk, she spotted a beautiful box lying on the pavement in front of a large townhouse. Taking it for her needles and threads she continued merrily along her way.