DINNER
At 7:40 pm, the Malfoys' guests had been guided toward their assigned tables, dinner about to begin after Abraxas Malfoy's announcement. The elder host in question stood before his head table, passing his eyes over the individual tables before focusing some place toward the centre, a few glances flicking over to Lucius and the back of the room as he prepared to make his announcement with a very mild Sonorus charm.
"My very esteemed guests, I am quite honoured to be standing before you on this occasion. You have all been informed as to the reason for these festivities, but let me formally state that I am henceforth retiring from the public eye to attend to my family and my remaining years." Abraxas smiled winningly toward each table filled with attendees, gaze catching on a few of the more animated talkers amongst the crowds. A few portions of the dining hall were alight with conversation that was just above a whisper.
"In so doing, I will leave my son, Lucius Abraxas Malfoy," at which point Abraxas gestured to Lucius who stood and offered a curt bow to those present before approaching his father's beckoning arms, "to take over the family name and fortune." Abraxas then presented his son with his cane, a dark ebony creation topped with a goblin-sculpted, platinum snake-head, that had been passed down the male line for generations. Lucius smiled sincerely at his father, finally feeling the pleasant weight of responsibility and honour that he was henceforth being bestowed.
With the polite applause, he bowed more fully and then shook his father's hand, allowing for a select few invited photographers to take a few snapshots before he reclaimed his seat, cane firmly held to his side.
"And now, please allow me to welcome our esteemed guest." Abraxas thrust a hand out before him as the double doors to the dining hall opened, admitting a robed man with pale features.