The Dominants Game

Chapter 1

Part 1: The Encounter

Lucius Malfoy strode through the grand atrium of the Ministry of Magic, his presence commanding the attention of everyone around him. His cane clicked rhythmically against the polished floor, a sound that echoed his authority and unyielding nature. 

Despite the fall of Voldemort, Lucius had managed to retain his influence, weaving through the new political landscape with the same deftness he had once used to navigate the Dark Lord's inner circle.

Today, however, his mind was not on politics. He was attending a high-profile Ministry event, a masquerade ball meant to celebrate the newfound peace. The irony was not lost on him; peace was a delicate veneer over the seething ambitions and hidden agendas that thrived in the Ministry's corridors.

As he entered the opulent ballroom, his eyes scanned the crowd with a practiced ease. Masks adorned the faces of witches and wizards, each one hiding their true intentions behind elaborate designs. Lucius felt a flicker of interest—a rare occurrence. It was a game, and he was always ready to play.

His gaze landed on a woman standing near the edge of the dance floor, her mask a delicate filigree of gold that accentuated her striking blue eyes. She was speaking with a group of officials, her posture radiating confidence and authority.

Lucius recognized her immediately: Rosetta Rothschild, a prominent figure in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. Ambitious, intelligent, and not easily intimidated—qualities he found intriguing.

With a calculated smile, he made his way toward her, seamlessly inserting himself into the conversation. "Good evening, Ms. Rothschild," he purred, his voice smooth as silk. "I trust you are enjoying the festivities?"

Rosetta turned to him, her eyes narrowing slightly behind her mask. "Mr. Malfoy," she replied, her tone polite but guarded. "Indeed, it is a remarkable event. And you?"

Lucius allowed his smile to deepen, his gaze locking onto hers with an intensity that bordered on predatory. "Quite. Though I find the masks somewhat redundant. It seems we all have our own ways of hiding in plain sight, wouldn't you agree?"

Rosetta's lips curved into a faint smile, her gaze meeting his with cautious curiosity. "A rather astute observation, Mr. Malfoy. But then, you've always had a knack for seeing through facades."

Lucius leaned in slightly, his voice dropping to a low, commanding tone. "Especially when the facade is as enchanting as yours, Ms. Rothschild. You intrigue me."

Rosetta's cheeks flushed beneath her mask, though she maintained her composed demeanor. "Flattery, Mr. Malfoy? I would have thought you above such tactics."

"Not flattery, simply the truth," Lucius replied, his tone leaving no room for argument. "You are a breath of fresh air in a room full of mediocrity. I find it... stimulating."

Rosetta's eyes sparkled with a mix of amusement and caution. "And what is it you seek to achieve with such observations, Mr. Malfoy?"

Lucius's smile widened, a hint of challenge in his eyes. "Must I always have an ulterior motive? Perhaps I am simply enjoying the company of a woman who knows her worth."

"Fascinating, am I?" Rosetta replied, arching an eyebrow. "I believe you are known for your discerning tastes, Mr. Malfoy. Should I be flattered?"

"Very much so," Lucius said, his gaze intense and unwavering. "It is not often I find someone who captivates my interest so thoroughly. And when I do, I do not let go easily."

Rosetta's heart raced, caught between flattery and the instinct to maintain her distance. "You are quite the charmer, Mr. Malfoy. But I must warn you, I am not easily swayed by pretty words."