An Awkward Dinner Party

Some things might have been rushed, but for an ancient family like this, even a rushed affair would be handled with proper decorum.

However, Dumbledore's arrival had clearly made the banquet awkward.

Dumbledore had been invited here to vouch for Sirius. First, to prove that there was no problem with his identity; second, to offer assurances regarding his marriage. It was a promise to the bride and her family.

Jon had simply come to watch the show.

The wedding ceremony had naturally been kept simple. Sirius and the bride had no feelings for each other, and neither of them put on any hypocritical pretense. They had not even introduced the bride or her family to Jon.

That surprised Jon.

In his impression, Sirius might have been somewhat withdrawn—or perhaps simply proud—but he was not someone who failed to consider the bigger picture. On an occasion like this, unless it was truly unnecessary, he would certainly have introduced Jon to his future wife and her family.

The reactions of Sirius's newlywed wife and her relatives were even stranger. Since Sirius said nothing, they pretended not to see him, as if Jon truly did not exist.

"What's going on?"

"Well, in your terms, it's a confidentiality agreement. Although the Black family is no longer as prosperous as it once was, a starving camel is still bigger than a horse. Not to mention that Voldemort's return has long been spreading through certain circles. The bride's family may have declined long ago, but they can still speak to people in those circles, so naturally they know some things. Besides, Pureblood Families living in the same place are always connected by marriage or blood. Sirius in particular still has two cousins alive, and both of them follow Voldemort."

"I know. I considered that when I