The Shadow Queen | Draco Malfoy X OC

III-VIII

As we stepped into Hogsmeade, a sense of relief washed over me. The familiar streets, the cosy buildings—it felt like coming home, albeit to a place that held its own dangers and secrets. But nestled within this enchanted village was a haven I could call my own: a safe house passed down through generations of my family.

This safe house may not boast the ancient grandeur of the Salvatore palace, recently revealed to be linked to the legendary Merline, but it held its own unique charm and power. With at least ten generations of protective spells woven into its very foundation, it stood as a testament to the magical legacy of my ancestors.

As we approached the safe house, I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride mixed with a hint of trepidation. It was a tradition among my family that when the next inheritor came of age—typically at eighteen—they would imbue the property with their own protective spell. This spell, meticulously documented in a sacred book passed down through the generations, would add yet another layer of defence to the stronghold.

Unlocking the door with a flick of my wand, I ushered my companions inside, feeling the comforting embrace of the protective enchantments wrap around us like a warm blanket. Here, within these walls steeped in history and magic, we could talk without any fear. here I was going to reveal all that had occurred this past summer, here I am going to reveal what role each and everyone has to play in the upcoming war.

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As everyone settled around the long table, I took my place at the head, flanked by Draco on my right and Daphne on my left. The arrangement was familiar, comforting even, a reminder of the unity and strength we found in each other's company.

To my right, Draco exuded an aura of confidence, his presence a reassuring presence at my side. On my left, Daphne exuded a quiet determination, her unwavering support a pillar of strength amidst the uncertainties that lay ahead.

Beside Daphne sat Theo, his sharp intellect and unwavering loyalty adding depth to our council. On the other side of Draco, Blaise exuded a casual charm, his wit and cunning making him an invaluable asset to our cause.

Next to Blaise sat Cedric, his noble bearing and sense of justice a beacon of integrity in troubled times. Beside Cedric, a confused Marcus appeared slightly bewildered, but I could sense the determination burning within him, ready to prove himself worthy of his place among us. Ardian, positioned next to Marcus, exuded a calm demeanour, his presence a steady presence amidst the tumult of our gathering.

Graham, seated beside Ardian, met my gaze with a nod of acknowledgement, his commitment to our cause evident in the fire that flickered within his eyes. Together, we formed a formidable assembly, each member bringing their unique skills and strengths to the table

The rest of the chairs remained empty for now, a silent reminder of the allies we had yet to gather, the bonds we had yet to forge. But as I looked around the table at the faces of those gathered, I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride and gratitude. Together, we were a force to be reckoned with, united in purpose and resolve, ready to face whatever trials lay ahead.

As I addressed Marcus, Adrian, and Graham, I could sense their curiosity piqued by my words. Adrian's discomfort was palpable, but I pressed on, determined to shed light on the events that had shaped our journey thus far.

"Marcus, Adrian, Graham, there's much you don't yet know about what's unfolding," I began, my tone serious yet tinged with a hint of urgency. "You see, back in our first year when I found myself in the infirmary, it was Adrian who inadvertently played a pivotal role in uncovering a crucial piece of information."

Adrian's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as he shifted uncomfortably in his seat, but I continued, offering him a reassuring nod. "No, Adrian, I sincerely thank you," I said earnestly, my gaze locking with his.