"Heavens, Sirius," Lucius Malfoy's icy voice rang out. "If Mrs. Black were still alive, she would be heartbroken. Doing this may win over some Purebloods, make this Board of Governors meeting fail, and buy you a little time. But I believe that with Headmaster Dumbledore's influence, getting more than half the votes won't be a problem. You've wasted two enormous favors owed to the Black family, and in the end, all you'll get is a delay of a few days. Nothing will change. The Black family's inheritance has come into your hands, and after you squander what remains of the family fortune so casually, there can't be much left, can there? Cissy, as your cousin, would be very upset if she knew you were doing this."
"Shut up, Malfoy. You have no right to speak here," Sirius said mockingly. "This is a Hogwarts board meeting. It has nothing to do with you!"
Mr. Flint wore an exquisitely tailored dark-green Magic Robe. At that moment, hearing Sirius's demand, he stepped out from among the governors. He turned the gemstone ring on his finger and tried to persuade Sirius. "Sirius, the Flint Family has always remembered the kindness the Black family showed my family back then. But are you certain you want me to use that favor on someone else?"
Mr. Macmillan also walked to Mr. Nott's side. "Yes, Sirius. It isn't worth wasting it on an outsider. Please think it over again. I can pretend I didn't hear it."
Every wizard's eyes focused on Sirius, and for a moment the scene fell strangely silent.
"Thank you, but as my godson's godfather, I've always been teaching him how to become a true Gryffindor... True courage isn't only dying gloriously for something. It is also being willing to go through fire and water