The Fox In A Snake Pit! Story 3

The Specter

Lucius cast a glance at Jade, his expression unreadable, before silently leading her to her room. As he opened the door, his gesture was purposeful, directing her attention to the bed where Vix lay soundly asleep. 

"I arranged for Fae to bring her here after you sent her with the message," he said, his voice a gentle rumble. "I had a feeling you'd be worried." 

"Alright then, thank you, I appreciate it." A warm smile spread across Jade's face as the tension that had once clouded her expression dissipated.

Lucius bestowed a warm smile upon Jade, offering a tender pat on her head before he retreated to his own chambers. 

She stepped into her room, the candles flickering to life as the door clicked shut. The familiar scent of wood and new books filled her nose which always made her feel safe and at home whenever she encountered it. Jade slipped into her cozy nightwear, the soft fabric welcoming her as she settled into bed beside her fox kit, who was nestled comfortably among the pillows.  Vix stirred briefly, her eyes fluttering open to reveal tired golden orbs before closing again with a contented sigh. 

As Jade caressed Vix's shimmering silver coat, her mind wandered to thoughts of Fudge and the inexplicable decision to overlook Harry's use of magic in the presence of Muggles. Her eyes narrowed in the dim candlelight, contemplating the possible motives behind his actions. The seconds dragged on before realization suddenly hit Jade like a cold splash of water. 

Her eyes widened in surprise as she exclaimed to herself, "I bet Fudge allowed Harry to get away with blowing up his aunt because he was just so relieved to see him alive! Especially with Black on the loose; the whole wizarding world believes he's hunting Harry!" Her face lit up with glee, the corners of her mouth curling into a wide smile as she chuckled at the thought before a yawn escaped her. She knew she needed to get some rest if she wanted to tackle the next day with a clear head, so she lay her head on her pillow and whispered, "Good night, Vix," as the fox kit curled up against her. 

~~~

The following morning, Jade quickly dressed and was attempting to persuade Lucius' owl to hop into its cage when Draco knocked on her door and walked into her room, a scowl etched on his face. 

"The sooner we get on the train, the better," he muttered, irritation evident in his tone. "Father has decided we can't go to Hogsmeade this year, all because of that ridiculous Sirius Black." 

Jade's eyes narrowed, and she picked up Vix, who had woken at the sound of the door. "What? Why?" she asked, sounding genuinely surprised. 

Draco rolled his eyes. "Because Fudge is a fool, that's why. He's convinced Black's after Harry, and Father doesn't want to take the risk of us being caught in the middle." he scoffed, running a hand through his hair. 

Draco and Jade strolled into the breakfast room, where Mr. Malfoy sat immersed in the Daily Prophet, a look of distaste curling his lips. He barely glanced up as they approached, but when he did, he folded the newspaper with a sharp snap. 

"Good morning," he greeted them, his voice cool and collected as always. 

"Father," Draco said, taking his seat. "I told Jade about you not signing the permission slips for Hogsmeade." 

Lucius looked up from his paper, his gaze sharp. "Indeed, it's for your own safety," he said, his eyes lingering on Jade briefly before returning to Draco. "I can't risk any harm coming to you, especially not with the likes of Sirius Black on the loose."