theodore

Draco drags Theodore to a secluded corner. The conversation is tense. Draco adopts his father's haughty posture, trying to intimidate him. "She's my sister, Nott. If this is just a political game for your father, I swear..." Theodore remains unfazed by Draco's threats. He looks at him calmly, perhaps with a touch of irony, and replies with something that disarms Draco Malfoy: "We both know what's coming. The world is falling apart outside. Your father is desperate, and mine is insane. This marriage isn't just politics; it's the only way she and I will have a safe place when the storm breaks. I won't let anything happen to her. " Draco realizes that Theodore is right. In a world where Voldemort is lurking, his sister marrying a clever, calculating, and loyal boy is the best possible choice. Though he maintains his proud distance, Draco gives Theodore a nod that seals a silent truce: their mission now is to protect her. Just minutes before, this announcement had taken place during a private gala dinner in the formal dining room of Malfoy Manor. The atmosphere is charged with elegance, but also with the weight of Lucius's authority. The mahogany table is set with the family's silverware. Lucius presides; Narcissa sits at the other end, observing everything with analytical yet protective eyes. Theodore Nott and his father are seated opposite Draco and his sister. After the second course, Lucius clears his throat, rests his jeweled hands on the snake-like pommel of his cane, and speaks. His tone is gentle, yet relentless. He speaks of "destiny," of "the purity of blood." Lucius produces an ancient parchment containing the marriage contract. With a flick of his wand, he slides it toward old Nott, who signs with an icy smile. Lucius stares at his daughter and Theodore. He isn't asking their permission; he's informing them of his destination.