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Cassie Black, as always, sat with an air of cool defiance in the Headmaster's office. Her fingers twitched nervously at the edges of her robes, betraying the calm demeanor she tried to project. Being called to Dumbledore's office for something like this was never a good sign, and as usual, the suspicion fell squarely on her. A petrified student—naturally, she was blamed. She wasn't surprised, but that didn't make it any easier.

"Ms. Black, please sit," Dumbledore's voice, calm yet firm, filled the room. She lowered herself into the chair across from him, eyes flicking to the polished surface of his desk, wondering what her punishment might be. Would they expel her? She had no idea, but she certainly wasn't expecting what was coming.

"I believe you heard that Colin Creevy was found petrified," Dumbledore began, his eyes soft but piercing, as if trying to read her mind.

"Sir, I swear, it wasn't me," Cassie replied quickly, her voice steady but laced with frustration. " Yes, Salazar Slytherin is my ancestor, but that doesn't mean I share his beliefs. Please believe me. I could never—"

Dumbledore held up a hand, cutting her off gently. "I don't think you did it, Ms. Black," he said, his voice almost reassuring. "I called you here to tell you that it is important that you be careful."

"Careful? But sir, I'm pureblooded. Why would I be in danger?" Cassie asked, her brow knitting in confusion. The creature of the Chamber only attacked Muggle-borns, didn't it? And besides, it wouldn't dare harm the heir of Slytherin. Her mind raced, trying to make sense of the conversation, but the mention of danger unsettled her. What could possibly threaten her, especially if it had nothing to do with blood status? Something wasn't adding up, and she didn't like it.

Dumbledore's eyes grew serious, the glint of wisdom and weariness in them deepening. "These are strange times we live in, Ms. Black. The future is uncertain for everyone. Not even blood status can shield us from what may come."

Cassie's heart tightened at his words. There was something in his tone, something cryptic, that unsettled her. Was he trying to warn her? Protect her? Or was there more to this than just the usual Hogwarts politics? Her mind raced, but she didn't voice the questions swirling in her head.

"May I take my leave, sir?" she asked, the unease beginning to build in her chest.

Dumbledore nodded slowly, though his gaze lingered on her for a moment longer than usual. "Yes, you may. And Ms. Black, could you please ask Mr. Flint to meet me here when you have a moment?"

Marcus? Why would he want to meet Marcus?

"Ofcourse, sir."