Two Sides of the Serpent // Draco Malfoy

Chapter Thirty-One: Hidden Allies

The nightly breeze cooled the air, bringing a chill to my bones that accompanied my anxiety. While I pull my bag back up onto my shoulder, Xenophilious approached with his signature smile and a small pouch in hand.

"Here," he said, offering the pouch. "Berries and some bread. It's not much, but it will keep you both fed for a little while."

"Thank you," I responded genuinely. "For everything."

Standing beside me, Draco leaned in. "We should go," he muttered, his eyes shifting between me and the road ahead. "We can't risk staying any longer."

Luna's father nodded, his eyes reflecting a deep sense of understanding. "Be careful," he said, his tone distant but sincere. "The world is darker now. But remember—light can still be found."

With those words, they stepped away from the Lovegoods. Standing outside the home, we looked at each other, silently comforting the other. He gently wrapped his fingers in mine before we inevitably disapperated.

Once we appeared in the darkened village, we swiftly pulled our hoods over our heads, concealing our noticeable features. The cobblestone streets were eerily quiet, with only few lanterns guiding the way. Though no one was in sight, I couldn't help but feel there were eyes on me everywhere. We moved silently through the streets, remaining inconspicuous as we maneuvered the narrow alleyways.

Reaching the end of the alley, Draco peaked around the corner, scanning for anyone in sight. There were a two Death Eaters that stood opposite from us on the other side of Town Square. Crouching down and moving stealthily, we passed in front of Honeydukes unsuspected, rushing behind it.

Together, we crept down the alley concealed by shadows and up the stairwell, soon reaching a locket gate. Looking around using what little bit of the moons light we had to examine our surroundings.

Finally, I noticed something just above a doorway, nestled in the corner.

"This is it," I pointed.

Draco stepped out of the way, holding out his arm and gesturing for me to be the one to knock. I inhaled deeply and stood tall as stepped to the old wooden door. Raising my fist, I gave three firm knocks. For a moment, it had been silent.

But then, I could hear faint footsteps from the other side of the door. There was a small window within the door, just above my eye level that slid open with force. An elderly man with long grey hair and scraggly beard appeared.

His eyes narrowed as he grunted, his voice deep and impatient. "Who are you? What do you want?"

"We need your help. We were told that--"

The man interrupted before I could finish. "What do you think this is, an orphanage? Go away!"

The window slammed closed with a thud, leaving Draco and I stunned.

"Brilliant," he muttered. 

Shaking off the initial shock, I knocked again. The footsteps returned and the window slid open once more.

"Did you not hear me, girl? Leave!" He snapped.

"Wait!" I pleaded. "Xenophilius Lovegood sent us. He said you could help."

The man's expression flickered for the briefest of moments-- something like recognition crossed his features. But it was quickly masked by a gruff snort. Without another word, he slammed the window shut once again, but this time, the sound of multiple locks being turned echoed through the door.

Draco raised an eyebrow at me. "Well, that's not suspicious at all."

I gave him a slight smile. "At least we're getting somewhere."