Preparing for the Expedition

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The next morning, the atmosphere in the sanctuary was abuzz with energy. With the discovery of the new crystals and their immense potential, Harry knew it was time to plan a deeper expedition into the Black Tower. The frost continued to loom, and every step into the mysterious dungeon-like structure brought new resources—and new dangers.

Harry gathered his core team in the large meeting room of Hogwarts. The enchanted windows projected a view of the serene dome, but inside, the mood was anything but calm.

"We've made progress," Harry began, standing at the head of the table, "but the frost is spreading faster than we anticipated. The Black Tower is the key—not just to stopping the frost, but to ensuring we have what we need to survive."

Choosing the Team

Draco leaned forward, his sharp eyes meeting Harry's. "You're talking about going deeper into the tower. This isn't going to be like the last few runs. You need people who can handle whatever's down there."

"I know," Harry said. "That's why this team needs to be the best."

He turned to the group. "Luna, Neville, Draco, Fred, and George—you've all proven yourselves in the tower. Your skills with the crystals and your ability to think on your feet make you invaluable."

Fred smirked. "You had me at 'proven.'"

"I'm in," George added. "Can't let Fred have all the fun."

Neville nodded solemnly. "If the tower has more resources we can use, we need to bring them back."

"And I'd like to test these crystals further," Luna said, her voice calm but eager.

"Good," Harry said, his tone firm. "We'll need to prepare thoroughly—this time, we're going deeper than ever before."

Gathering Resources

The rest of the day was spent in meticulous preparation. The team equipped themselves with enchanted gear, magical tools, and supplies:

Shadowsteel Armor: Draco ensured everyone had a set of armor reinforced with the Shadowsteel Crystal, providing protection against physical and magical attacks.Frostveil Shards: Each team member carried a Frostveil Shard to grant resistance to the cold and the ability to summon ice barriers.Venomstone Enhancements: Fred and George crafted small vials of potent antidotes using Venomstone energy, just in case the tower's creatures had venomous attacks.Heartstone Amulets: Luna enchanted small amulets with Heartstone fragments to keep everyone's spirits high and provide minor healing during the mission.

Training and Strategy

Before entering the tower, Harry led a series of drills in the sanctuary's training grounds.

"We're not just fighting random creatures this time," Harry explained as they practiced. "The deeper we go, the smarter and stronger they'll get. Stay close, protect each other, and don't take unnecessary risks."

Draco demonstrated advanced defensive spells, showing the team how to use Reflection Crystals embedded in their shields to deflect attacks. Neville practiced summoning barriers with Frostveil Shards, while Fred and George tested their Venomstone-enhanced traps.

Luna quietly experimented with the Heartstone, focusing on its ability to calm emotions and strengthen bonds.

The Night Before

That evening, the team gathered for a final meeting in Harry's office. The atmosphere was tense but determined.

"We don't know how long we'll be in there," Harry said. "But we've prepared for this. Trust your instincts, and trust each other."

Luna looked at the group with her usual serene smile. "The tower wants us to be afraid. But fear is just another challenge we'll overcome."

Fred grinned. "Right. And when we get back, drinks are on me."

"Don't tempt fate," George replied with a smirk.

Draco rolled his eyes but couldn't hide a small smile. "If you two spend less time joking and more time fighting, we might actually make it back in one piece."

As the group dispersed to get some rest, Harry stood by the window, staring out at the towering silhouette of the Black Tower in the distance.

The frost wasn't waiting, and neither were they. Tomorrow, they would venture deeper than ever before—into the heart of the unknown.

And Harry knew, more than anything, that this mission could change everything.

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