Two Sides of the Serpent // Draco Malfoy

Chapter Thirteen: Poisons and Plots

As I stood on the platform of Kings Cross waiting for the Express, the cold unforgiving winter air bit at my cheeks. I pulled my scarf around me tighter, seeking the warmth and comfort from it. The platform echoed with the rhythmic song of the waiting train, steam hissing and billowing into the frosty atmosphere.

My gaze couldn't help but be drawn to the clock that rested overhead. Its ancient hands marched forward with the painful reminder that our mission loomed ahead. We were stepping into dangerous territory, acting toward the dark cause Voldemort had instructed us to do, yet trying to find a way to infiltrate the Order.

Finally, I saw his distinctive platinum-blond hair serving as a beacon that guided my gaze. Our eyes locked as he pushed through the crowd. With every step that he took, the weight of everything resting on my shoulder seemed to melt away. As he approached and stood at my side, he stood stoically. His head held tall.

"Are you ready for this?" he inquired, his voice etched with unwavering resolve.

My smile, though tinged with uncertainty, radiated a connection forged through shared dedication. "As prepared as we'll ever be."

Once we stepped onto the train we searched for an empty compartment. It wasn't long before we settled into our seats, closing the door behind us and ensuring a safe place for us to exist in the moment.

"So, what's our next move?" Draco asked, his tone serious.

Looking out of the frosted window for a moment, collecting my thoughts. "For now, we should continue playing our roles as loyal servants of the Dark Lord. We've gained his trust, and that trust is our best asset. We can use our access to gather information, disrupt their plans, and report back to the Order. It's a risky path, but it might be the best way to serve both sides."

He nodded thoughtfully and his gaze fixed on me.

I met his eyes, feeling a sense of determination. "We have to be more cautious than ever. Clever too, and above all, we can't lose sight of our end goal."

As the train began to chug forward, the clinking of the wheels on the tracks were a background to our turmoil. We knew that the first steps we take could be treacherous but we were set on making a difference. We spent hours brainstorming ideas of our next move.

"We need to gather information first," I stated. " The more we know about Dumbledore and his movements, the more we can anticipate. We need to strike when he is at his most vulnerable."

He nodded and agreed as I continued. "Once we have the information we need, we should plan our attack meticulously. I've heard rumors that Dumbledore has wards and enchantments in his office, so we can't simply barge in. We need a strategy to bypass those defenses."

Draco leaned closer, his gaze intent. "What if we create a diversion elsewhere in the castle, something that would draw Dumbledore away from his office? It could be an emergency or a crisis that would need his immediate attention."

"That's a great idea," I replied. "But we have to ensure it doesn't look suspicious or connected to us in any way. We can't afford any trace leading back to our involvement."

We discussed various scenarios, carefully crafting a plan that would keep us in the shadows, our intentions concealed, and the mission shrouded in mystery. We know that every detail must be perfect and that the consequences if we fail were unthinkable.

After hours passed and the sun had set, the train arrived at Hosmeade Station. The platform was crowded with students as they eagerly grabbed their bags, heading back to the castle. Draco took one last look at me, caution and worry filled his eyes.