The door opened, allowing a beam of sunlight to peer curiously into the gloomy atmosphere. It was shoved aside as a cloaked figure entered, announcing its presence with a hoarse cough. The new patron slammed the door shut behind the cloaks hem, and the light was denied entry once more. As the shadowy grim gathered once more around the entryway, the newcomer took a seat at the bar and melded into the group.

This occurred two more times before his wait was over and the door opened to permit a third patron.

Lucius watched, yet unmoving from his contemplative pose, as Montague sidled into the pub. There was an alertness to the younger mans movements that his keen watch, trained over the years to spot the physical signs of emotions, caught instantly. Their eyes met for the briefest of seconds as Charles surveyed the small crowd and directed his path to the bar. Finally Lucius shifted. In the length of time the head boy took to purchase his poison of choice, Malfoy withdrew his flask and took another swig of the liquor within; to wet his lips, of course. He was no longer dependant upon the drinkor so he had managed to convince himself.

His wand was exchanged for his flask as Charles meandered over and settled down at his table.

Lucius. The lack of an invitation was made up for, however marginally, by the respect that was instilled in Montagues voice.

Charles, Lucius uttered in return, acknowledgement taking the place of his typical condescension. One might not call it respect, exactly, but at least he hadnt applied the sneer that most others received. The incantation of a barrier charm was drummed up in his mind while Montague carried on speaking; it was one which he had not used in some time, and so there was reason for the oh so slight pause that entered the mask of his features. But then he had it, and gave the command silently as his thin digits swept his wand swiftly through its required movements.

A web of auditory illusion was woven around their table and the space that the two occupied. Now, should any prying ears be turned their way, a buzzing similar to that caused by a change in air pressure would enter their heads. Turn away and the sensation would slowly fade, as natural as natural could be. But it was an effective block against eavesdroppers, and was used often enough in this pub that most would hardly try again.

His wand was returned to its pocket neatly as Lucius finally answered Charless question. Who would turn down the invitation to a chat with the Head Boy of Hogwarts? As for a drink, I have my own, thanks, he uttered with sarcasm returned to his purr, a small smirk cutting across his pale lips. The bacteria on those tankards is enough to kill a man, without the alcohol. So. I see the old glory road has been treating you well enough, even chasing you to the Hogs Head.