[mayfair] a lesson in vengeance | regan

It had become an odd sight, seeing Genevieve Grosvenor so consumed with her own thoughts that she had become unaware of her surroundings. The young woman whose attention to detail had often been the bane of the staff’s existence had not even realized that her afternoon tea was missing its customary two sugars and a splash of milk. It was Effie, her trusted personal maid, that caught the mistake almost immediately, eyeing the new maid nervously as she waited for her mistress’ realization to come in the form of a few unkind words. Nevertheless, the woman sipped the tea in deep thought and never said a word, her eyes reading line after line in a book that had caught her attention earlier but her mind ions away from where she was. In the days following her meeting with @Nathalie Wilkins, the young witch’s liveliness had slowly dissipated and her maid began to notice the tell-tale signs of the sort of melancholy she had experienced shortly after her father’s imprisonment subsequent to the war. Her down spiral was almost immediate; she ate half the amount of her usual portions, seemed to drag her feet as she unwillingly followed through her day to day schedule, and had made it a habit to retire much earlier than usual, not giving invitations to go out a second glance. No matter how obvious the signs were, no one dared say anything lest they incite her indignation.

Even though Genevieve was never the one to share her problems openly with others, especially not the help, she was a lost and longed for someone to talk to about her problems. The heavy burden of her emotions had often been relived by her cousin in the past. Augustus had always played the role of her most treasured confidant, one of the very few men she deeply respected and felt emotionally connected to. Nevertheless, the knowledge of her uncle’s betrayal was not something that she could share with him so easily. As Augustus became older and was forced to spend more time with his father, Genevieve suspected that he had started to change. It was only natural, her cousin was, after all, preparing to take over the family upon his father’s death. However, these subtle changes made her suspicious of his involvement. Were she to ever find out that Augustus had been involved in his father’s plan—that was simply something that she could not bear to think about.

The more emotional, unrestrained side of her wanted to burst through the heavy oak wood doors of her uncle’s office and kick and scream obscenities with a demand for an explanation. The Grosvenors were renowned for their loyalty; she knew deep down that her father had done nothing to deserve this sort of treatment. Leonidas Grosvenor was an intelligent man, charismatic and well-mannered but had never risen suspicion in the eyes of his family or close friends, of this she was certain. He simply did not have it in him to over complicate his life with untruths unless it was to protect what was of utmost importance: his family and his beliefs. The young woman had always suspected a sort of natural jealousy between her father and her uncle but never to the point of betrayal. The more sensible part of her, the one that always forced to stop and think before acting willed her to calm down, reminding her that there was nothing to be accomplished through such an ostentatious release of emotion. No matter how angry Genevieve became, she still did not have the power to release her father from his unfair imprisonment.

So, she decided to find someone that could.

It took several days of deep consideration to decide who could be trusted for such a task. It was completely natural for Genevieve to seek out help in regards to her father’s imprisonment, her belief that he had committed no crime was common knowledge to everyone. Nevertheless, going behind her uncle’s back to do so would cause unnecessary problems if he were ever to find out. She needed to go about this intelligently.

Genevieve wrote to @Regan Reddington , a famed lawyer and family friend, without giving much information apart from her desire to meet and her need for counsel on a legal matter. Much like her Uncle Gaius, Uncle Regan was someone she had known for several years, the man had been close to her family much like everyone who supported the cause was. He had attempted to help her mother but the woman had been much too proud and honest for her own good, something that sealed her fate at Azkaban. He had taken a sort of personal interest after that, had even given her his personal card which she had kept safely in one of the many boxes holding her treasured trinkets from her childhood.

Arriving at the Draben only reminded her of the unpleasant conversation she had engaged in with Nathalie only a few weeks prior, but it was the only place she was certain the two could meet privately. It was a little crowded today, after all from Thursday everyone suddenly seemed more interested in drinking than the drudgery of everyday life. Once one of her favorite spots in Mayfair, the Draben was starting to become a place she dreaded as all of these important conversations were being held here. She would have to find somewhere else to play with her friends on a girl’s night out.

“Ms. Grosvenor, good evening, please follow me,” the waiter announced as soon as she appeared at the door.

Holding her clutch purse closer to herself,  she walked behind one of the waiters as she was escorted to a private room, her smile widening when she caught sight of her guest. “Uncle Regan,” she said, leaning in to give him a brief hug before moving to her seat. “Thank you so much for seeing me on such short notice, I assume this isn’t your first time here but it does bear saying that the whiskey is to die for, if you’d care for some,” she stated rather than asked, looking over at the waiter and giving him a curt nod as if to tell him to fetch it. Once the man left, she turned her attention to the man in front of her again, smoothing out the folds in her blue dress.

“It’s been quite some time since we’ve seen each other, I’ve been meaning to write you for some time but it’s been a bit busy and I’ve just gotten back from my expedition to the Americas only a few months prior” she started off, smiling politely, “Please tell me how you and the family’s been! I take it that you’ve heard the news about Uncle Gaius…?” she trailed off, sure that he would have an opinion on the matter.

@Heather lemme know if you need any changes <333

The wizard hadn't considered that the young witch he once gave his card to, whom he gave a little gift every Christmas following her family's devistation and occasionally saw would seek his councel on something in the realm of legal issues. Had she grown so much to require aid? It couldn't be that she was taking risks, could it? The first thing that came to Regan's mind was that Ms. Grosvenor was in some sort of trouble that she couldn't get herself out of. He hadn't seen her in some time, his last contact being before her graduation. His schedule made it feel like it wasn't that long ago. He had promptly replied her her simple letter in his own form of vague language that he accepted her offer to meet.

"Fetch my briefcase," he called from the foyer of his home. A little house elf rushed it over to him, "keep an eye on the house, as always. Owl if anyone makes an appearance." Regan donned his well kept black fedora and cloak before apparating himself to the place she requested him to meet her at. He arrived particularly early to the Draben, a place he quite enjoyed relaxing at now and then when he had the free time. The atmosphere was more pleasant than the bars down the way, and it was more pleasing to the senses than he could personally describe.

"Good evening miss," he gave a polite smile to the hostess as he took off his hat, "that headband really compliments your eyes, much like a blooming apple tree's blossoms make way for sweeter apples." He watched her blush a little, "If you could be a dear and provide me with a private place for a private conversation in the not so distant future this evening, I certainly would appreciate it. You would of course be tipped well for such a service to me."

"Right this way," she smiled, directing him over to plush armchairs in a small private room, a grand piano shared its space along with a fireplace and windows that lit the room more than the candle lights.

"I will be seeing Ms. Grosvenor. I hear that this is one of her favorite venues to enjoy. Be sure to bring her favorite when she is settled." She had nodded before rushing over to the nearest waiter to share the news. The man sat himself down in the chair, grabbing the latest Daily Prophet and scanned the daily news that he had already read in the morning.

It didn't take long for Genevieve to arrive after him, and once he heard his name he placed the newspaper back on the coffee table to stand and greet her, widening out his arms. "That dress is marvelous on you." He gave her a hug in return, looking her over briefly to check for any signs of physical distress. She was in some ways a family member to him, a distant daughter that he wouldn't of hesistated to take in if she wasn't already in good hands. He'd do anything he could for family. The man took a seat once more, unbuttoning his dark grey three peice jacket.

The mention of whiskey had him smiling, giving the waiter a brief nod himself, "they do have the best whiskey to date in the area. I haven't found a spot that serves the same great taste unless it's in another country." Regan chuckled with the humerous thought that he should visit Italy, or maybe Germany, again soon. Traveling never bothered the dark wizard, he much preferred to be in the right place for the right thing.

"It is good to see you Ms Grosvenor. I hope your expedition was fruitful and brought you joy." He knew she was interested in creatures, much like his wife and daughter. It was obvious to Regan though that she wasn't here to have a small chat about life, nonetheless he shared his own for a brief moment, "Richard has graduated, and has been accepted to Renato. I believe you remember him, as he's just a few school years below you. Regina is entering her fourth year in September, she is doing well."

"I have heard the news," he felt slightly cautious about discussing Giaus Purcell, "I plan to visit soon to see how he is." Wellfare check mostly, with a sprinkle of current event news. Considering the media attention on his dear friend, he wasn't going to tolerate rouge prision guards having a go with the defenseless man. "It is a tense time for international cooperation as you can imagine," one of the reasons he decided the Ministry was not for him. He could operate on his own terms without fearing reprocussions. Regan considered the ministry to be a leashed fenced in yard, there was so much more to law than what they cared to explore.

"I am sure though that you requested to see me on a different matter than international conflict," he paused, glancing at the young woman, "am I right?" He recalled the scared little girl she was when he first saw her many years prior. His voice got slightly softer as he leaned in toward her, "is it of concern for your safety? Because if it is, just let me know who." He went over in his mind the few ancient ritual books that contained spells that would cause a magical restraining order upon someone.

Genevieve simply nodded politely at his compliment, muttering discreet words of gratitude as she moved to take her, resting her hands neatly, one on top of the other, as she moved closer to the edge of her seat. It was a beautiful dress, but the laces of the corset had been tied much too tight, in part as a way for Effie to exact her revenge on the younger witch over some disparaging words she had imparted earlier that night, and in part, at Genevieve’s personal request. The material pressed so tightly against her ribcage, restricting every breath she took, served as a sort of symbol in the young witch’s mind, a constant reminder that while externally Genevieve portrayed a life of luxury and utter contentment, internally, she could not allow herself the pleasure of repose, not even for one moment. Nevertheless, it was a thought she kept to herself.

Genevieve was well aware of the reputation she had garnered for herself over the last few years; the constant spotlight on her personal life had led to many an unsavory rumor about her ongoings. Her refusal to take a stand against the Daily Prophet or any other gossip column that dared publish untruths about the ongoings in her life had even convinced some in her inner circle that she enjoyed luxuriating in the attention. Such an accusation could not have been further than the truth. Rather, it was a survival technique. If everything published in the paper became known as a rumor then how would the public be able to distinguish fact from fiction? In this way, Genevieve could meet with Mr. Reddington about a serious matter knowing that whatever was publish in the papers would simply be chalked up to another attempt to infuriate the young heiress.

“Do they? Please do excuse my ignorance, I haven’t much knowledge on whisky apart from it also being my father’s drink of choice,” she mentioned coyly, choosing to gently broach the topic of her father when the opportunity presented itself. Regan Reddington was no stranger to the inner workings of the Grosvenor family. After all, he had been one of the few faces she had seen constantly for as long as she could remember; a lawyer with whom her family had worked with closely on a variety of matters. From what she understood, Regan and her father could even be described as good friends, one of the select few that knew Leonidas Grosvenor for who he really was. Someone, she hoped, that would understand the grave situation he was in. But first, formalities were in order.

“Indeed, I’ve much research compiled that I hope to slowly work through and have published by the beginning of next year or so. I apologize for not keeping in touch while I was away,” she added courteously. Genevieve had already heard an earful from Nathalie for not taking time to write, she had to admit that now that she considered how many people she might have left wondering about her whereabouts she felt a little guilty, but more so very pleased with herself. “I do remember Richard, I must send him my congratulations, and to little Regina as well!” she continued. Regina was still too young to need proper training like Meredith Howell but then again Regina shared her house, she knew that if the current students were truly worthy of the Slytherin House, she would learn everything necessary without incident.

She smiled politely at his confirmation of the news of Gaius’ release, concealing her personal delight behind a measured reaction. Even in a place as private as the Draben, the news of Gaius Purcell’s release was not one that sat well with everyone and therefore discussing it in length could draw the wrong sort of attention. Regan’s own words alluded to such, never giving more information than was absolutely necessary. Genevieve was sure that he knew more but it was not her place to ask for such things, not that she believed he would have indulged her if she had. “Yes, I am certainly not surprised that the news was met with mixed feelings. Even so, I cannot say that I am not very pleased,” she confessed, lowering her voice just slightly, should anyone be listening a little too closely.

“While I love nothing more than international conflict,” she teased, nodding her head an affirmative to his question, “yes, I do have another matter on my mind,” she admitted, pausing as the waiter returned with their drinks and watching him quietly as he set up, her shoulders tensing and relaxing once again when he left the room. Genevieve straightened in her chair, tucking some of her loose, chestnut hair behind her ear as she thought of how to answer his question. If she were to tell him that her uncle was threatening her safety would he have him taken away? Unlikely. The family friends were a very loyal bunch and unless she could prove it, it was likely to backfire. Or maybe he was aware of what was being done by her uncle? Either way, Genevieve was determined to go about it in a way that would prove to be the most painful to her uncle and his family. He would pay for his betrayal.

“I am interested in hiring you to work my father’s case. As you remember, he was taken in due to completely circumstantial evidence and while Uncle Septimus has been working hard for his release…” she paused, the words she had otherwise recognized as truth felt painful to express, “I believe that it is time for someone that is actually capable of making some progress take it on. The charges against him are completely false and the Ministry had absolutely no evidence when they took him in. Without a proper trial and immediate imprisonment, it seems like this case is a likely success if an appeal is accepted. I am not well versed on politics or the law however, it seems to me that this could even turn into a lawsuit against the country,” she started, taking a sip from her drink to allow the words to sink in for a moment. “However, I would greatly appreciate it if you did not tell my Uncle about this matter. Unfortunately, we do not see eye to eye on many issues and as I become older and more…independent, I find that he has a difficult time allowing me to seek out things on my own. Please name your price and I shall have it paid to you in advance as soon as you request it,” she said.

She could only hope that she had not already said too much.

Regan nodded to himself about the fact that Leonidas Grosvenor enjoyed a bredth of alcohol, in which he was unable to do so for quite some time. He couldn't recall the last time he particularly paid the man a visit, and made a mental note to do so at his next Azkaban adventure. Genevieve's expeditions was enough that she'd be able to compile it into a publication, and the wizard was quite proud of the young woman in front of him for such a large fete she was doing. "I hope to read it someday," he raised his glass from the table and tipped it to her as a congratulatory gesture as she continued.

He had to chuckle when she mentioned her enjoyment of international conflict, mostly because everyone loved a worldwide scandal. It kept the wizarding world on their toes. He watched her straighten herself into a posture that brought about curiousity to the man. To him she radiated maturity of the important discussion. Then she said it.

Her father.

Regan recalled when the man was placed in Azkaban without a trial as some sort of sacrifice. The man may have shared pureblood views, but he wasn't anything like most witches and wizards who perfered the shadows and outer fringe of magic. He was much like his dear Aiofe, who he couldn't imagine doing damage to anyone or anything. Her darkness was more out of pureness. He'd be furious if she was thrown into Azkaban for mere association. Septimus was indeed working on the release of Leonidas, as Regan had previously given him the case file he had on record in attempts to free the father figure to Ms. Grosvenor. The lack of resolution was alarming to Regan, mostly because he figured Septimus would of make some sort of progress by now. The man bit the inner corner of his lip as he nodded in confirmation that he wouldn't share her request.

The topic of payment always tended to find its way into conversation, and despite the wizard's keen sense of understanding money, he never put value in it. When it came to work, the value of money was handy to getting others involved. He never let money dictate his actions or decisions. The man wasn't desperate for it despite not being particularly rich with overflowing galleons in vaults unlike those he mingled with. He let her remaining words linger for a moment.

"I'm disappointed that Septimus has not made headway in the release of your father. I trusted his judgement that he would be a good individual who would advocate for him." The man took a sip of his drink before setting it down, "I think I'll have to relook into this case Ms. Grosvenor, for it's been too long. It would require some new paperwork, easy stuff, but will take time, unfortunately, to work through the maze." He thought for a moment, seeing value in Leonidas' case extending to other witches and wizards who were brought to Azkaban without trial. "Indeed it may turn into something more, so we must be delicate." The amount of people it would involve would be at a dangerous level. He would have to speak to @Melissa Knox to ensure his poking around didn't make it on the front page of the newspaper until the timing was right.

"I hope you don't mind that I defer payment until a later date. I'll let you know when, and the price. While advance payment is appreciated, it is not required. Consider it the carrot," he winked. "Though I would like a manuscript of your research once ready."

Genevieve found herself in an onerous situation. On one hand, she could tell Regan of what she had only recently become privy to, exposing the deceit she had experienced at the hands of a man who claimed to care for her. On the other, she could continue her farce; put on an expression of utter confusion on the topic of Uncle Septimus and pretend that she did not know why progress had not been made. In retrospect, Genevieve felt stupid for not inquiring about it sooner. Regan made an important point; Septimus Grosvenor had good judgment and a plethora of connections however he had sought not one of them. Even though he claimed to be doing it for her protection, Genevieve could not even begin to imagine what was so dangerous about her father. He had been caught in a crossfire and unjustly imprisoned, it was something that she had put trust in for such a long time that she could not differentiate it from what could be the actual truth. The teenaged witch was impressionable to a fault.

“I suppose it’s difficult to advocate for someone so closely associated with…a woman of such an affiliation,” she said, pausing for a moment, unwilling to say the word Death Eater lest it cause an unsavory reaction within the establishment. He knew exactly what she was talking about, of that she was certain. “Nevertheless, I do maintain that my father is innocent, and while my uncle might have the resources and the time to pursue his release, I’m afraid that he might be otherwise occupied,” she said vaguely, hinting at what could be familiar disagreements but nothing that would insinuate that she knew as much as she did. While Genevieve wanted to trust Regan, she knew now that it was important that she protect herself. Eventually, whether it was from the Prophet, a friend, a rumor, or even the man sitting before her, Uncle Septimus would find out about what she had done. However, Genevieve knew that it had to be done on her own terms, she had to be prepared should it turn into an intricate altercation.

She smiled in turn at his agreement, pleased that he was willing to look into the case. Taking a sip from the drink on the table, Genevieve listened closely, nodding in agreement to his words. “Of course, I do understand that this will unfortunately take some time but as long as I know that there is someone trustworthy on the case, I am willing to wait patiently,” she replied. All things considered, even if he looked at the case now, that would still be much more progress than her dear uncle had made. It was an odd thing, however family acquaintances were sometimes more reliable than your very own blood relatives. However, the Grosvenors had always been this way. Even though they often pretended to be a shining example of what a good, pureblooded family should look like, some of their secrets could probably put some of Azkaban’s worst criminals to shame. The more she considered the words of @Nathalie Wilkins , the more sense it made; but why? that was the question that continued to keep her up at night.

“It would please me very much,” she said finally, “if the release of my father served as a starting point to the release of many of those being wrongly persecuted in our community. Now that Uncle Gaius has been granted his freedom, well anything seems possible at this point,” she added quietly, a smile on her face as she brought the drink to her lips once again. “I will send payment as soon as you’ve decided, I appreciate the gesture,” she added, taking a breath in relief. He had responded positively, and that was enough to take the seemingly overbearing weight off of her shoulders.

“Of course, as soon I’ve completed the edits, you shall be one of the first to read my copy. Though please don’t be too harsh, Uncle,” she said with a coy giggle. “Though on a more serious note, I must ask. Do you think it’s wise for me to see my father? I was…able to visit my mother recently with the help of a dear friend, though of course, my uncle was never made aware. However if all possible, I would love to see him again, even if only once.”