Outfit

Liadán stepped out of a small, run down looking shop in Knockturn Alley. She made a face as a bit of grim smudged the white heels she had chosen to wear for the day, and then peered up at the sky, the look of disgust never faltering as a water droplet pelted her in the face. The forecast called for rain- not that it was anything unusual- but she had hoped to be finished with her errands before it began. Although it had been nothing more than a drop or two, it prompted the young woman to open the umbrella at her side and hold it up as a shield from the sky.

She passed a few street vendors, ignoring their calls as they urged her to inspect whatever goods they had on display. Liadán was very picky about whom she did business with in this particular area. If she was seen buying from the wrong person, it could reflect poorly on her. Being seen down Knockturn on a regular basis in general wasn't very good for her, she supposed. Her business allowed for it, though. Some of the nastier creatures she raised required some questionable care at times, and she sold her goods indiscriminately- to those considered good or bad. Of course, her recent purchase had nothing to do with business, just some leisurely reading... Never mind that it pertained mostly to poison.

There were a few more things she needed to do in Knockturn before visiting the bank and getting some more parchment to respond to letters sent to her by family members. Mostly it was responding to invitation and inquiries. One aunt in particular seemed very keen to set her up with some wealthy French bachelor. She intended to politely decline. She knew that she did not have all the time in the world to get married, but there was (as of yet) no need to rush. Besides, she had impossibly high standards, and nothing would sway her opinion of how a man ought to look and act. (It seemed impossible to find a man of the proper level of intelligence who was also handsome, and visa versa.)

Liadán found her way under an awning to her left, one that sheltered the doorway of an old shop that sold antique jewelry and decor (much of which was often cursed, she had discovered). "Excuse me," she said quietly to the person standing in front of her, blocking her way into the next store she intended to visit. Politeness didn't get one far around here, but she found it difficult to shake the manners she had been taught while growing up. You never knew, after all, who it was you might be speaking to. When they didn't move, she lowered her umbrella to close it before she would be going inside, and made sure to bump them with it- gently, and easily what could be considered accidentally.

Before leaving his flat, James had donned a thick, black overcoat to cover his usual gray robe.  He knew that the weather was supposed to be typical for London, which meant that it was supposed to be wet.  Even so, James was surprised by the amount of water that was coming down from the heavens.   That did not change the fact that he was late for holiday shopping. 

James truly had no business in an antique store, but it was hard to shop for gifts.  James was one of those people who got various shopping tasks done at least three months in advance, and he felt he had already delayed by not procuring a suitable gift by early October.  Usually, he had completed this task no later than September.  He was looking for something interesting, and possibly something suitably subtle to curse his sister-in-law.  He idly wondered how his brother had not committed murder as of yet, and there was talk that his parents might seek to annul the agreement if an heir was not produced shortly…He wondered if he could convince his parents to arrange the match to someone else.  Or maybe convince them that William could find his own match, though he doubted his parents would buy that.  His parents made sure William had everything from a suitably pureblooded wife to a life of leisure.  Though James would eventually have a life of leisure as well due to his years as a professional athlete, he had to earn that.

As he was browsing various antiques, he was surprised that he could detect very few curses.  James thought he was in the right place for that sort of thing but apparently...he was incorrect.  He did not know if he should ask for help, but decided against it.  He was so engrossed in his thoughts that he did not hear Lidia speak up.  When she bumped him though, it brought him out of his musings. 

” Liadán! I apologize, I was somewhat engrossed by the antiques.  What brings you to this end of town?” James exclaimed with a smile on his face.  Maybe she could help him find a suitably subtle cursed object gift.  After realizing that he was talking to a pureblooded witch, he kicked his manners into a higher gear.  Before she could interject, he continued, ”But where have my manors gone?  First I do not even realize you are present, and then I forget to offer my assistance.  Would you like me to hold your umbrella?” James offered, taking on a slightly more proper tone.  Admittedly, he would offer to carry something else, but he did not intend to go shopping with her, he just wanted to catch up on acquaintances.  That, and James could not see if she had anything else that needed carrying.

As James studied the pureblooded witch in front of him, he noticed that her eyes seemed to have some trick of the light acting on him, because he could swear they were two different colors.  James tried to recall if he could remember that about the last time he talked to her, but could not for the life of him remember.  He decided to disregard the thought for now, and just maintain eye contact with her while she was speaking.

"James!" she greeted with a warm smile, suddenly very glad that she had not been more rude in her attempts to get inside. Mr. Forrester was a man she was actually somewhat fond of. She might disagree with his manner of employment (quidditch was a horrid, disgusting sport after all), but somehow she never had disagreed with his manners or his company. "Yes, please, that would be very helpful," Liadán said before handing over her umbrella. Once her hands were free, she took the opportunity to adjust her clothes and smooth down her hair. "I had hoped that I might finish my errands before the weather turned foul, but I seemed to have misjudged exactly how long I would be out. Or, perhaps, the more honest explanation would be how long I spent in the book store." She did adore books, and could spend hours trapped in a shop just looking at them, especially if she went with no particular title in mind to purchase.

"It is wonderful to see you, though I must wonder what brings you to such a place? It doesn't seem like somewhere you would generally frequent. Oh, it is a wonderful little hideaway if you know what you're looking for, and of course, how to prevent the shopkeeper from ripping you off but..." Liadán trailed off indifferently, knowing any further explanation could be offensive. She would expect a man to be eating or somewhere with a darker reputation, or perhaps out chasing skirts. James Forrester in particular she would peg to be in a sports shop of some sort. Yes, she did stereotype people- and it wasn't a habit she intended to give up any time soon.

She began to start off toward the jewelry, and turned to peer at James. "Come now, walk with me while I browse," she practically ordered him, then continued to speak was she walked. "How have you been?" she asked. "It seems like it has been quite some time since we've spoken. How is your family?" The typical question to ask of anyone, really. Family was all that mattered to the pureblood community. Liadán had lost her immediate family, but still tried to keep in regular contact with her more distant family members, especially those in France. It was nice to take a holiday in France, so keeping on good terms with them was essential- it allowed her pretty much her choice of summer homes.

After James took her umbrella, he placed in his right hand.  He watched her primp herself for a moment, and then heard her say “I had hoped that I might finish my errands before the weather turned foul, but I seemed to have misjudged exactly how long I would be out. Or, perhaps, the more honest explanation would be how long I spent in the book store." As she said this, his thoughts once again briefly turned to his brother.  He had also liked books as well, and it got James thinking if his parents would approve her for William.  He thought of that for a moment, but realized that he did not know her well enough to be setting up midnight rendezvous for her.  Though admittedly, if he did actually manage to figure out a way to off his sister and make it look like an accident, Liadán was probably one of the first people he would owl to inform that his brother was single again.  Though the thought process was somewhat dark, it was brief, and soon Liadán spoke up.

"It is wonderful to see you, though I must wonder what brings you to such a place? It doesn't seem like somewhere you would generally frequent. Oh, it is a wonderful little hideaway if you know what you're looking for, and of course, how to prevent the shopkeeper from ripping you off but..." Liadán led.  James obliged her with an answer.

“Ah.  I am Christmas shopping.  Funny you should mention books, I managed to track down some of the original scrolls written by some long dead Greek named Aristhrotle…I think.  Or is it Arispostle?  Anyways, the author is a philosopher that my brother likes; though I always fell asleep in any philosophy lessons our parents tortured us with.  I am looking for a gift for my sister-in-law here.  I honestly have no clue what she likes though…so I was looking for a vase or some other decorative piece,” James said, leaving out the fact that he was looking for one that was cursed.

As she began to walk towards the jewelry, she looked at James, and ordered him to walk with her.  He fell into step with her, keeping his strides relatively small so he did not outpace the witch.  As she was looking at items, she asked a couple of pleasantries, before asking the question on every pureblood’s mind. 

“I have been doing well, though the coach seems intent on making sure everyone can fly across the Atlantic without the need for sleep.  As for my family, my brother is doing well enough.  Rumour has it that he will get the Wizengamot seat soon, and our father is giving him more lessons in politicking and macro-economics,” the fact that Lady and Lord Forrester were waiting on an heir was left unsaid.  He idly wondered if his lucky stars made it impossible for his sister-in-law to reproduce.  As James thought of all the things he had left out of this conversation, he realized that he really should try to be more friendly with the witch in front of him.  After failing to remember what she liked, he remembered that she owned a farm.

“How is the farm coming along?  And how is it treating you?” James asked, maintaining a genuine smile on his face. 

"Aristotle," she corrected him with a slight smile. Liadán was not overly familiar with him, apart from- as James had pointed out- lessons when she was younger. She had never been a big fan of philosophy. Liadán did not find it very practical or applicable. She much preferred learning about things that either directly concerned her, or could be helpful in the long run. "And that does sound like a very thoughtful present. I am certain your brother will enjoy it. It would be a great additive to any collection, whether a person was fond of the philosopher or not." Liadán was very curious as to exactly how James had come across something so rare, but did not ask. It had to have cost him a pretty penny.

She was pleased when he fell into place beside, and did her very best to mask her disdain when he spoke of his career in quidditch. In all honesty, Liadán was fairly certain that he could find a more suitable profession. The young witch did not equate him with being brutish or barbaric, and she considered quidditch to be both things. "The Wizengamot, really?" she asked, momentarily distracted from her dislike of his career. "Is he not a bit young for such a position?" She admittedly knew very little of Mr. Forrester's brother, or remembered very little. "That must make your family very pleased." And immediately, Liadán's gears began to turning to try and figure out a way to use such a connection to her own benefit. Surely there had to be someway.

"Things with the family business go as well as can be expected. A herd of hippogriff came down with a mysterious ailment. We lost quite a few of them before finding a remedy for it. It caused a few orders to be sent out late- which is something that always reflects poorly upon the business, regardless of the circumstances. Hopefully it does not put too big of a dent in our revenue or in our ability to procure new clients in the future. Apart from that mishap, things have gone smoothly. Sometimes I feel as though business consumes my life. I've been considering taking some time off for the holidays, perhaps visiting relatives in France."

She inspected a few pieces of jewelry, finally selecting a simple yet elegant bracelet. "I am not certain how fond your sister-in-law is of jewelry, but simple pieces such as this make wonderful gifts. They can be worn with multiple outfits, and I know very few women who can say no to diamonds. Generally it is much safer to go with something to flatter to a woman, than to try to find a piece of home decor. As I do not know her well, I cannot say this for sure, but some women can be very sensitive, and she might take it as an insinuation that her own decorating tastes are not up to par." Liadán was the sort to misinterpret an innocent gift in such a way. Once a cousin on her father's side had gifted her with a set of African relics that were intended to be used as decor. Liadán had found them hideous and was offended that her cousin would give her something so disgusting intending to improve the way her home looked. She had not spoken to her since.

"Are you going to be in attendance for your brother's New Year's Eve party?" Liadán asked. "I have heard much talk of it among my social circles. There is time yet, but everyone is already discussing what to wear and who is going with whom. Naturally such an event doesn't allow for last minute planning. Imagine the embarrassment of wearing the same as someone else, or going without a date! It seems that it is always the New Year parties which garner the most attention. Probably because everyone is so keen on seeing who kisses whom at the stroke of midnight." Liadán was one of these people. She was a gossip hound for the most part, and although she had yet to find the time to snag a suitable date for herself, she intended to do so as soon as possible. "Do you have any knowledge as to which witches and wizards have already sent word back that they plan to be in attendance?"

After correcting James naming of the philosopher,  Liadán complemented him on the gift.  She commented on what he had heard of his elder brother.  Though she did suspect that he was a bit young for the position, and James shared the sentiment, though his parents did not.  After voicing her thoughts on the matter, James replied to the implied questions.

"Yes, he is a bit young, but Father thinks that if he can get in enough committees this young that he can become chairwizard of some of the more powerful committees and hold the position for a long time.  My father thinks that the current chairwizards on those committees are going to die before he has a chance to claim them, so he is passing the torch off in order to get William’s foot in the door.  Nearly everything in the Wizengamot is based off of seniority, so it seems like a solid plan…though it will take a long time to bear fruit,” James explained.  He also left out the fact that money also had a lot of influence in the Wizengamot, and votes were bought more often than they were cast.  If William played his cards right, he could stand to make a fortune off of his position, and then use that money to bribe other members to elect him chair person.  Though James never was one for long term strategy, it seemed like a good plan to him, even though a lot could happen on that timescale.

As she described the disease that had affected her hippogriffs, James was mildly intrigued.  They usually served hippogriff at their New Years Eve Bash, he needed to make sure that the meat was not tainted.  He did not know who his parents chose for a vendor, but resolved to write them a note of it.  After she suggested giving his sister a diamond for a Christmas present, he was more than slightly perplexed.  James had heard the expression that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but giving them to someone besides a significant other was a rather large taboo for males. 

“Diamonds, or any other piece of jewelry for that matter, are somewhat of a taboo gift for gentlemen to give to somebody else’s wife.  Admittedly, diamonds would be slightly better than a typical piece of jewelry since they are one of the most common rocks on the planet…but I do not think my brother would take very kindly to it,” James said, somewhat perplexed that she would suggest such a thing.  The last thing James wanted to do was runoff with his brother’s wife, though it would not be unheard of in pureblooded circles.  Regardless of strange branches on the family tree, James would be delighted if his sister-in-law never talked to him again because he chose an ugly vase. 

Liadán then asked about the New Year’s Eve party, started acting a little bit like a school girl.  James kept his enthusiasm in check relatively easily, since he did not particularly care for clothes too much.
”To be honest, I do not know if I will attend; though it is extremely likely.  My brother will certainly be there, as will my parents, but I have not seen the guest list as of yet.  Though I have heard a few rumours, and if my sources are correct, we should have quite a gathering.  As far as what anyone is wearing, I would imagine that dress robes will be worn.  I honestly do not know what else would be worn at these things, but you probably know more of those matters than I,” James replied to her query.  If he ended up going, he would show up in either a black or grey dress robe, with an appropriate tie and boots to match.  He imagined most gentlemen would as well, though it always amused James to find the one witch dressed like a peacock at these events.  Not really wanting to go into depth on the topic, he changed the subject.

”Enough about that though.  I feel like a school girl, going talking about a dance that is a couple of months away.  And, as you stated earlier, we have not seen each other in some time.  If you plan on travelling to the continent for the winter holidays, do you plan on going anywhere besides France?  Or are you just going down to see your family?” James asked.

She nodded politely as he explained the plan to further his brother's political career. Apart from having to deal with the ministry in an unsavory situation, she knew very little about the ministry, and did her best not to have any interactions with it past what was deemed necessary. Legal, spot lighted politics were not something she had any interest in. Liadán much preferred the shady dealings and the goings on within her own, pureblood societal world. It was more interesting, to say the very least. "I certainly do hope that their plans pan out," she offered. Liadán knew better than to try to get involved in a conversation about something she knew nothing about. She did not make it a habit, after all, to prove herself a fool.

"Is it?" she asked. Liadán had never thought very long or hard about appropriate or inappropriate gifts to give an in-law. She would likely never know anything about her brother's wife if he ever got one, and did not mind in the least. He was no longer part of the family as far as she was concerned, after all. Besides, if she was married to a man and someone else gave her an exquisite piece of jewelry she would think nothing on it. Perhaps that was the difference between men and women... Or perhaps her materialistic side had begun to overshadow her better judgment.

"Oh, James, but you must go!" she exclaimed. "I am certain everyone will be looking for you to be there. And there is such a shortage, it seems, of properly groomed young men. Just last month I went to a party and there were quite a number of less than adequate attendees. Really, who invites the common people to such events?" Liadán did not know, or particularly care if he disagreed with her. In her opinion you associated with your own sort. Oh, some halfbloods were decent enough people, but not the sort you went to events with or were seen publicly with on a very regular basis. This was especially true if a person hoped to maintain any semblance of propriety or good breeding. Liadán's family would see her hung before they would see her out on the town with anyone of improper birth.

There was something about the way that he responded to her comments about the party which displeased her. Liadán hoped he did not intend to belittle her when he claimed that people would wear dress robes. That was quite obvious, after all. Then again, he was a male, so perhaps he did not care as much. Liadán certainly wished that men were more concerned with fashion as they got older. It seemed after they grew up, such things held very little importance to them anymore. She wanted to keep on the train of thought, when he put an abrupt end to the subject. Though it nettled her, she chose to move on. There was no need to argue with him or cause a scene. They were in public, after all, and she did not wish to have her invitation revoked.

"I've yet to make any in depth plans," Liadán told him. "I do not know yet when I'll have the free time, or what will be going on in my social circles. I believe a cousin of mine might be getting married sometime soon, and perhaps I will use that as an excuse. If I do visit relatives, it will be for a very short time, and afterward I will travel at my own leisure. I do adore the d'Aubigne side of the family, but they can be very meddlesome." They seemed to also think it was not right for her to live alone and run her business without a man to help and guide her. Liadán was not going to tell James their thoughts. It was not a conversation she wished to have with someone that she was not particularly close to. "I suppose, though, that all family has the tendency to be that way. After they get past a certain age, what else have they to do, but to live vicariously through the younger generations?" They could die off without complaint, she thought, but that wasn't likely to happen, not in a pureblooded family where everyone had the tendency to be self absorbed.

She asked the man behind the counter to see a set of earrings, holding them up to her ears as she peered in a mirror. Liadán crinkled her nose and handed them back, then asked to see another pair. "So have you any great ambitions?" she inquired. "Or does quidditch leave you contented? Surely you've something else in mind for when you retire. Early retirement is all the rage, I hear. Besides, it's not a very friendly sport, is it? A bit barbaric, really. Do politics not suit you as they suit your brother?"

"I certainly do hope that their plans pan out," Liadán offered.

“Me too.  It is always nice to have friends in high places,” James commented.    Apparently, neither of them wanted to prolong the subject, which suited James fine.    After explaining why he was looking for a decorative piece, she seemed skeptical to James.  Her only voiced thoughts were "Is it?"

“Generally speaking.  Otherwise, I am sure gentlemen would be showering you with diamonds.   If you like geodes though, I shall endeavor to find one for you.” James thought that he might give her a piece of azurite, pitchblende, or some other rock that was suitably platonic for the winter holidays.  She was one of his main social contacts, and it would not due to alienate her.  Though she attended too many high society functions for his taste, he assumed that it was a female thing.  Almost reading his mind, Liadán then commented about the lack of acceptable males at such functions.  Though he did not know what she meant by common people, he assumed that it meant people without money.

In truth, James would have liked to talk about who was going with whom because he needed a date. Unfortunately, he did not know how to bring that up in front of Liadán.  He did not know how she would take it, and while James would not be adverse to taking the short girl in front of him…he did not think they would last longer than a couple of dates at most.  Even if they did, he did not want his parents to negotiate a match for them before anyone could say “quidditch”.  Unfortunately, they both knew that would happen if they were seen together too many times.  Liadán seemed borderline empathetic today, since she responded to his not-so-subtle changing of the topic.  After she mentioned her travel plans James encouraged her to,

“Go see Europe.  If you go far enough south, go see Africa.  You have the funds, and I am sure you can find an excuse to be treated like an Egyptian queen for a few days.  It is interesting that you mentioned meddlesome family though.  That is the problem I have been having with finding a suitable date.  I know that as soon as I am seen with someone they approve of, there will be an arranged marriage contract faster than I can blink.  I am having a hard time finding a witch who would both be suitable company for the evening and not be a suitable match.  Do you know of any?  Sorry for waffling on the topic, but you can see the difficulty,” James explained, assuming she knew more witches than he did.

While she was trying on earring, Liadán asked about his ambitions.  James was slowly getting the impression that some people might not like quidditch, but it contradicted so heavily with his view of the world that she might as well have implied that the sun was cold. 

“To answer your question, I believe I am too honest to make it in politics,” James carefully replied.  He then continued, “While I could retire early, I have no real reason or desire to do so.  I thank you for your concern though.  It can be a rough sport, particularly when dodging bludgers at a hundred and fifty miles per hour.  But there is much fun to be had, a lot of money to be made, and near infinite records to be broken,” James replied with a smile on his face.  Trying to explain to James that somebody did not like quidditch would be like explaining colour to a blind man, it could not easily be done.   

Oh, flattery really could get a person everywhere, couldn't it? Liadán positively beamed at the compliment, giving him a bashful smile and a playful swat. "But I've no husband to make jealous," she offered, "or romantic interest at all for that matter. Should any man wish to shower me with diamonds, I would not complain. I would happily accept them all and send him on his way if I did not find him suitable." The truth, she realized after speaking it, made her sound quite... Well, not quite like the lady of breeding she was. "But alas, I have yet to locate one who wishes to give me sparkly things and dote upon me." Liadán could hear the voice of her aunt reassuring it that it was entirely due to her professional life. No man wanted a professional woman, he wanted someone soft and delicate to give birth and rear children.

"I would so love to see Africa! I've also wanted to make a trip to the Amazon." She wanted to go to the Amazon to locate the Shuar and investigate further about shrunken heads. The book she had located was quite helpful, but getting a real hands on experience would be much more beneficial. Liadán, however, thought it best to restrict the conversation to less brutal topics. "I've got so many books about African tribes and their ways of magic. Such fascinating reads! Primitive peoples are very intriguing to me. I just don't like the idea of travelling in search of them without a guide, and no doubt if I got so far as Africa the urge would be too great. Imagine the possibility of discovering more information first hand!" The idea truly did excite her. Where James' passion was quidditch, hers was the acquisition of knowledge. (And, naturally, the acquisition of material things, but that was well understood without being said.)

Ever the narcissist, she even found a compliment in him asking about other witches. To Liadán, this meant that he did consider her to be a woman desirable of a more permanent position in his life. "I'm sorry, but all of the ladies I am well acquainted with would be very suitable matches. I would suggest, as horrid as it sounds, to find someone who is less than attractive if that is your wish. Ugly women can be wonderful company, as they must have more substance to their persons without the capability of using their looks in their behalf. Unfortunately, not all of us are blessed with appearances and intelligence. No doubt your parents would not see you married to a lady who would make them cringe upon looking at her."

"I could ask around, if you wish. I'm sure I must know someone who knows someone that would suit your needs. Don't worry, I'd be quite discrete behind the reasoning of my inquiries. Most would likely assume I am attempting to set something up for my brother. He'll never marry well if I don't meddle, and I'm sure that everyone who knows anything of the family knows that." It was, naturally, a lie. She would likely tell her friends as soon as she could about Mr. Forrester's inquiry and their current conversation. It was, after all, her duty to inform all eligible girls of proper birth that he was not looking for a wife.

She made a face when he mentioned dodging bludgers. "The sport is incredibly outdated," she offered. "And so violent. Besides, do you really condone women participating in such a thing? Were it an all men's sport, I do not think it would offend me quite so much. Still, women donning breeches to ride brooms and beat up each other with bats hardly seems appropriate to me. I should hate to think that are not the least bit vexed by that." If she had a little girl, and the child ever expressed any interest in the sport, she would be horrified. How did others not feel the same way? Imagine, a woman of their breeding upon a broom. It just didn't seem right.

"What is your sister-in-law like?" she asked, abruptly changing the subject after her near insult. "Does she have a simple, understated taste or does she prefer something more elaborate and flashy? I know they usually have some lovely pottery from America, done by the natives hundreds of years ago. A few smaller pieces would make a nice little collection to display somewhere, especially if they have an interesting story attached to tell to visitors. I've many pieces about my own home that I purchased as they can be great for conversation." By great for conversation, she really meant that they gave her bragging rights in some way or another. She loved to boast about the things that she owned. Perhaps his sister-in-law was the same?

James blinked.  He did not realize it, but did he just end up flirting with Liadán?  Admittedly, his skill with long term relationships with women left much to be desired, but James seemed to be unintentionally hitting on her.  He thought a minute about what he said about geodes, and realized he should have been more specific.  He probably led her to believe that he was going to find her some diamonds for Christmas or something.  He decided to make sure he wrote a nice letter to her explaining that it was a platonic gift, thanks for being such a good friend (even though they hardly knew each other), and other such nonsense. 

"But alas, I have yet to locate one who wishes to give me sparkly things and dote upon me." Liadán said.  Ironically, James thought this was because she acted too much like a lady, his thoughts running counter to hers.  He did not know any males under the age of sixty who would actually attend all of those society gatherings, and could not see most gentlemen under the age of fifty bothering with it.  Outwardly, James gave her a small compliment.

“A successful young lady such as yourself has plenty of time.  I am sure you will find someone,” James kept his polite tone, hoping that she did not start hitting on him there.  If she did, James would have no real grounds to refuse but he doubted Liadán would start batting her eyelashes.  ‘Then again, with the way this conversation is going, that just might happen’ James thought to himself.

After James commented about travelling, her attitude changed.   She seemed enthusiastic to go travelling.  He really could not blame her.  He did not to see much of Europe, but he had seen a large part of it during his summers at school.  As Liadán continued to gush about Africa and South America, he smiled.  It was good to see some true passion from the girl. 

“If the farm does not work out, maybe you should go work for Wizarding Geographic .  You seem to have quite a passion for finding new things, and I do not believe I have seen you so passionate about anything before,” James said.  He had meant going to Africa as a friendly suggestion, but she seemed to take to the idea like a fish swam.  It just seemed like something she was born to do.

After he asked her about dating though, it was patently obvious that they were obviously on two lines of communication.  James did realize he had somewhat of a love them and leave them attitude, but the way Liadán was speaking surprised him.  As she finished her thought, “He'll never marry well if I don't meddle, and I'm sure that everyone who knows anything of the family knows that."

”I apologize, I do not believe I was clear in my intent.  I am not looking to…how should I say this discretely…spend some time alone with a witch at the bash.  I am trying to find a completely platonic date.  In other words, looks are not a concern but blood is.  More importantly, I do not want to deceive anybody…especially ladies of class.  If you find someone, please tell them that I only plan on going out as friends,” James asked as politely as he could.  He wanted to make sure Liadán understood what he was trying to say.  Normally his interactions with females were limited to bars and clubs, and it had been sometime since he had actually talked to one in broad daylight.  Regardless, about the last thing he wanted at that thing was one of Liadán suitably old money and pureblooded female friends thinking he was looking to tie the knot.  Knowing the circles Liadán ran in, it would be extremely likely the witch’s family would either have the political clout or the money to make a wedding happen, and drown him in amortentia the night before.  He did not want that to happen.

As Liadán made her opinions known on quidditch, he wondered if he should just lie completely or come up with some ministry approved answer.  He decided to go with a non-answer.  He was gambling that his roommate would offend Liadán‘s sensibilities enough so that they would not have to answer that question.  As soon as he got back though, he would have to inform Eason of this conversation.  He wondered if Liadán knew that she hit upon a rather widely debated topic in the male locker rooms.  “You should discuss that matter sometime when my flat mate is present.  He is far more eloquent on the topic than I am,” James offered, not really saying anything on the matter one way or the other.  Liadán  seemed to sense that the topic was causing some discomfort, so she asked about James’s sister in-law.  Almost as if James was a professional poker player, neither his expression nor tone changed when she brought up a subject he did not like.  He did not know how to describe her without using the words vain, selfish, self-serving and probably a few more four letter words.  Fortunately, Liadán  asked about a gift as well.  So he would have to lie a little rather than completely.  He would not bad mouth family to acquaintances. 

“My sister-in-law is a traditional witch, but I honestly do not know her tastes that well.  Most of the time I spend at their place is spent with William.  Regardless, a conversation piece would be a suitable gift.  The problem is I am not suitably versed in antiques and her tastes to see if anything in particular sticks out.  Still, the Native American pottery sounds like a good idea.  Have any suggestions?,” James asked aloud.  Inwardly, he was wondering if it would be best to curse it with a potion or a spell.  The darker thoughts were obviously unspoken. 

"I'm certainly in no hurry. I've plenty to worry about that doesn't include popping out heirs and catering to the whims of some spoiled, pureblooded male who assumes I'm there to be a slave and a trophy wife." Bitter? Liadán? Never. She knew that when she married, she would be expected to play the role of the dutiful and doting wife. For the most part, she had no problem this. Even so, she was hoping to find a man that would allow her to have the freedom she needed and desires, and hopefully one too lazy to meddle in her business.

She smiled broadly at the suggestion about Wizarding Geographic. "I could never take up such a profession, though it might make for a very interesting hobby! The farm has done well for generations, and I don't foresee it faltering anytime soon. I shall have to try to get in touch with the editor prior to any out of country excursions. That really is a marvelous idea, James!" It really did please Liadán to think about the attention she could get for publishing things in a journal such as WizGeo. It could get her some more good publicity, and be a way to earn more bragging rights. Naturally, though, some secrets she might discover would have to be kept to herself.

"As friends?" Liadán asked, quirking a very curious brow. Whatever could James Forrester want with a date to just be friends with? He was a wealthy man of an impressive pedigree, and he should be looking for a wife! She had half a mind to tell him so, but realized he probably heard it from his family and knew that they were not close enough friends for her to make such a judgment. (At least not to his face.) "I shall certainly see what I can do, though I don't know very many witches who would not take such a date to be more than that, regardless of how innocent you claimed your intentions to be. I might have a cousin or two from France who would fit the bill, though, and I shall certainly look into it later. That is, of course, assuming you have no objections?"

She let the topic of quidditch drop, as she had others so far. Her attention was turned, for the moment, to the pottery she had suggested. "They have some wonderful ones I saw just the other day that were used in sacrificial rituals!" Liadán seemed far too excited about the prospect, too. She had considered buying them for herself, but had decided against it. Mostly because she found them to be incredibly overpriced, and had been unable to haggle successfully. "I don't recall the exact tribe- my knowledge, I admit, is rather limited. I spend most of my time reading about African tribes. The only tribe in the Americas I know anything about is the Shuar, for rather obvious reasons." Obvious reasons to anyone who knew anything about them, at least.

"They were used to hold organs, something similar to pieces found in Egyptian tombs, if memory serves correctly. They really are beautiful. Wonderful condition and the decoration on them is very nice." Forgetting the jewelry for a moment, she led him to the pieces she had been discussing. "I did a little research and it seems they came from some sort of magical tribe, actually. The information is very hard to get hold of, and much of it was written by muggle writers so it is lacking in accuracy and therefore not very useful reading. Still, it could be a nice little project for your sister-in-law if she enjoys such things. I'm quite certain I could help her, if she was interested in knowing more if you decided to go with the gift." Anything to get in the good graces of another family.

"…catering to the whims of some spoiled, pureblooded male who assumes I'm there to be a slave and a trophy wife."  Liadán said with more bile than James knew she had.  James, for the second time in the conversation, was amazed at how sincere she sounded in that statement.  Though James had very little doubt that she would be gossiping with some of her friends about what she has learned here, James still could relate to unwanted suitors.  James distinctly felt that if there was another female present, at this point they would go off to the loo together.  Unfortunately for all involved, James & Liadán seemed to be the only ones present in this conversation.  James felt he had to say something to that remark, but could not think of anything that would not sound like a complete cliché or like he was hitting on her.  James thought for a moment, and carefully offered, ” Liadán – I do believe a witch’s perspective would be more amenable to you on this topic, but perhaps I may be of some assistance.  If you are fed up with the usual suspects, then look for wizards in other places.  I doubt you will find too many purebloods that suit your criteria, but Wizarding Britain is relatively small.  Since you seem inclined to travel, take a couple of trips to North America and Australia, and see what the local talent has to offer,”

After James mentioned Wizarding Geographic, a smile showed up on Liadán  face.  She exclaimed, "That really is a marvelous idea, James!".  James smiled, and took the compliment.  He really had nothing more to say to that, and he began to wonder how much longer the farm would last if she actually did start working for the aforementioned periodical.   James noticed the visible change on Liadán’s features when he said that he wanted to go as friends.  After she offered her French cousin, James figured that was good enough. 

"That would be superb.  Yes, I know, I should be looking for a wife – which is what most have been telling me, but currently I have no desire to settle down.  Before you ask- I am not telepathic- but every witch I come across thinks I should get married,” James said, a mild scowl upon his face.  He had been through this conversation ad-infinitum and ad-nauseum.  If it did not sound like he would be blatantly hitting on Liadán, he might ask her out.  She seemed to be having similar problems with the opposite gender right now as well, but he doubted she would go for it.  That, and James doubted he could keep up this much pretense and manners for an entire evening while intoxicated.

As Liadán discussed sacrificial rituals, and organ holding pots, James let a small smile break his bearing.  'That is almost too perfect.  A subtle switching spell, and an organ transplant that has a ninety percent chance of failing,' James thought to himself.    The only problem would be making the spell or potion subtle enough to affect only one person, and make sure that all suspicion was cast towards his sister-in-law.  He kept the dark thoughts to himself and said, “While I am not entirely sure if my brother’s fiancé enjoys shrunken heads, the pottery should make enough of a conversation piece either way.  And they do look nice,” James commented.

After James briefly examined the jar to ensure it was not cursed, he picked up the object.  He would have to give it a more thorough look later, but he did not see any immediate danger in handling the pottery.  He decided that when Liadán was done shopping, they could pay for their purchases simultaneously.

Liadán had considered visiting other places to find a suitable husband, but knew that she was not familiar enough with families from other countries to be sure she made the right decision. There were plenty of eligible bachelors among London society, and her family had ties in both France and Italy. It was just a matter of allowing one to surface who could meet her impossibly high standards. (Perhaps her standards were impossibly high simply because she really had no desire to settle down any time soon.) Were her mother and father alive, she had no doubt they'd have promised her off to someone else already and she'd be having children already and absolutely no freedom or independence.

"My cousins are wonderful little angels," she assured him. "Well behaved, nice to look at, but their parents are set on marrying them off to French men. You've nothing to worry about." It would also benefit Liadán to have them visit. It would boost her ties with her French family, and they might have some insight on men in France who were actually suitable. Still, if she invited them both that meant she would have to find a date for them both as well. Still, there was plenty of time to worry about that, wasn't there?

"I suppose I am lucky," she commented. "No one expects a witch to settle down until she is perfectly matched. With my mother and my father both gone, I have a bit more freedom and less pressure put upon me to hurry and find an appropriate husband." Liadán would likely avoid doing so until the last minute. Fortunately she was not one prone to having crushes or involving her heart in anything. Unlike some of her societal friends, she did not need a man hanging on her every word to make her happy. Some people just had no sense about them as far as romance was involved.

Though James did not know it, had he voiced his thoughts on the best way to curse the pots, Liadán would have likely been able to help him. She had an extensive collection of information about dark harts hidden throughout her library at home, and in other places that the ministry had not looked when her house was searched so many years ago. In fact, Liadán would have likely been able to be even more of a help if she had known his true intentions with the pottery in question. Alas, she did not. As such, she smiled slightly and nodded. "Most people seem to be a bit wary of shrunken heads," she told him. "Fascinating subject, really. And," she leaned in close, tilting her head so that her whisper could be heard only by him, "they are particularly easy to make as well." Not that she'd been able to practice on people... yet.

After he seemed to settle on the pottery she had suggested, Liadán moved back to the jewelry counter and selected a necklace and matching earrings. It was a nice emerald set. Liadán, though no longer a Slytherin, always would have a love for the colors after being a part of the house for so long. Most everything Liadán wore was either black, gray, brown, or green. Occasionally she wore something predominantly white, though it was most certainly not very often. "I'm very glad to have been of some assistance to you," she offered as the man behind the counter places the jewelry into nice, velvet lined boxes. "You must let me know whether or not she enjoys the pottery. If she does, you could make it a tradition of giving it to her. My mother's family specializes in the antique trade so I am quite certain that I could find more of them for you." She nodded her head at the clerk as he handed her the jewelry and began to make her way toward the front to pay.

"My cousins are wonderful little angels," Liadán assured him. "Well behaved, nice to look at, but their parents are set on marrying them off to French men. You've nothing to worry about." James smiled.  That was almost too perfect.  James thought about investigating things further, but he was not one too look a gift horse in the mouth.  If nothing else, he would have arm candy for the event.  He made a mental note to himself to thank Liadán in a future letter. 

As Liadán commented on all of her requirements in a husband, James mentally pat himself on the back.  He had no doubt that whatever her criteria she had, he did not meet it.  He also guessed correctly by not hitting on her, and debated for a moment if he should have some more platonic relationships with women.  James really could not see that happening at this point in his life, but maybe once he retired from quidditch he would consider it.  As of the present however, quidditch took up most of his social life.

As Liadán commented on shrunken heads, he was surprised when she leaned into him.  James momentarily froze, wondering why she was doing that.  She then whispered, "they are particularly easy to make as well." James had a surprised expression on his face, and wondered if Liadán had experience with the subject matter.  She said that so quickly, that he wondered if her urge to travel had darker origins.  Deciding that he did not know her well enough to comment on that particular piece of information, he nodded his head and said, “Good to know,”.   

After Liadán selected a piece of jewelery, she asked James to let her know how his least favorite person in the world would like the pottery.  ‘Hopefully, enough to kill her,’ James thought to himself.  Out loud all he said was, “I shall be sure to let you know,” with a neutral expression on his face.  He thought that if this plot of his did not work out, that he would need to try something else.  Inwardly, James thought that he might consult Liadán another time if she knew how to make shrunken heads.  It was a tad darker than what he had expected the girl to admit, but he had been debating the best way to kill someone for most of the conversation. 

As they were now at the counter, James wondered where the vulture salesperson had wondered off.  After scanning the store for a few minutes, the clerk finally noticed that James looked ready to purchase something.  As he walked over to the pair, James asked Liadán, “What do you have planned for the rest of the day?”

"Oh, the same things I have planned for most days, really. I was checking on some business associates and making sure that they're needs have been met with the last round of shipments. I like to be sure that my clients are pleased, and to make sure that my employees are behaving themselves. Business dealings often go awry if your employees are not treating the clients with the proper respect that they deserve." It was also important to keep a personal relationship with them, or so Liadán thought. Though her company shipped to many different countries, she did her best to meet with everyone on a semi-regular basis. It was this personal touch which had landed her some very serious business deals. Word got around that Liadán actually cared. How silly they were to believe that. (And how stupid some of them were to believe that she gave a damn about anything other than their money.)

"After I am finished here, I have to purchase some more parchment and ink to respond to some letters and invitations I have received. I also plan to visit Gringotts, and after that I am going to return home."

Liadán wondered why he was asking. There was a very small part of her that wondered whether or not James Forrester intended to invite her to do something with him. If he did, she would have to politely decline. She had a very busy day ahead, and had no desire to tiptoe around societal rules all day. They could be quite tiring when she was not prepared. It was why, apart from societal events and parties, Liadán spent most of her time shut in alone at the large home she had in Ireland. She liked the quiet and the time she had to read and practice her magic and other various things. Her home provided the utmost privacy for persuing her darker interests, as long as she was certain to cover her tracks later.

"Have you more holiday shopping today?" Liadán asked as she was finally able to pay for the jewelry she had picked out, tucking the bag into her purse.