Entitled

Chapter 72*

A couple of days later, you find yourself standing in Voldemort's estate, a dark and imposing presence looming over you, Severus, and Lucius. 

The atmosphere is tense as you all gather to go over a list of potential recruits that Lucius has compiled. Among the names is Adrian Blackwood, your friend. You feel a pang of dread, knowing there is little you can do to protect him from being drawn into this dark alliance.

Voldemort's eyes scan the list with a mixture of interest and disdain. "Lucius," he begins, his voice cold and commanding. "Tell me about these individuals. I want to know their strengths, their weaknesses, and their loyalties."

Lucius steps forward, his tone confident as he begins to explain each name on the list. When he reaches Adrian's name, he hesitates for a brief moment, glancing at you before continuing. "Adrian Blackwood," he says. "A powerful wizard from an influential pure-blood family. His talents in dark magic are well-known, and he has shown potential in various areas of magical combat and strategy."

Voldemort's gaze flickers to you, his interest piqued. "And what of his loyalties?"

Lucius pauses, carefully choosing his words. "He has not shown any strong allegiances, my Lord. He could be swayed to our cause with the right... incentives."

You feel a knot tighten in your stomach, knowing that Adrian's life is about to change forever. Voldemort's eyes narrow as he studies you. "You know this Adrian Blackwood, do you not?"

You nod, trying to keep your composure. "Yes, my Lord. We were friends at school. He is skilled and ambitious."

Voldemort's expression is unreadable as he considers your words. "Good. Then you will be the one to approach him. Use your influence and your past connection to bring him into our fold. Do not fail me."

You swallow hard, feeling the weight of the task ahead. "I understand, my Lord."

As the meeting concludes, your fury at Lucius simmers beneath the surface. The tension between you is palpable as you leave Voldemort's estate. Lucius quickly takes you and Severus back to Malfoy Manor, leading you into his private office where you can discuss what happened without fear of being overheard.

Once inside, you turn on him, your anger barely contained. "How could you do that? Adrian is my friend!"

Lucius holds up a hand, his expression serious. "I understand your anger, but I hardly had a choice. The Dark Lord is demanding results, and we all have to make sacrifices."

"He's right," Severus adds, his voice calm but firm. "We need to be strategic. You can sway Adrian without great difficulty, and it might be the only way to protect him."

You shake your head, pacing the room. "I don't want to drag him into this. He's innocent in all of this."

Lucius steps closer, his tone softening. "I know this isn't easy, but we need to think about the bigger picture. If Adrian is recruited, we can keep an eye on him and ensure he's protected. If he's left out, the Dark Lord might target him in other ways."

Severus nods in agreement. "We must tread carefully. If we play our cards right, we can turn this situation to our advantage."

You turn to Lucius, your anger flaring once more. "You could have warned me, Lucius. This wasn't helpful, and it feels like you're withholding plans."

Lucius raises an eyebrow, his expression cool. "It was my mistake to assume I was part of your little group," he says, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "I wasn't aware I needed to clear every decision with you."

The tension in the room is palpable. Severus steps between you and Lucius, his voice steady. "Enough. We need to focus on the task at hand. Petty arguments will get us nowhere."