Draco is Subdued, Lucius is Aggrieved

The descendants of wizards who have been awarded the Order of Merlin feel insulted. Even among pure-blood families, discussions about this matter are unavoidable. Moreover, there are a significant number of wizards present who are either half-blood or Muggle-born. Initially, it seemed like Hermione was the only one being scolded, but in reality, everyone in the room felt uneasy.

However, nobody spoke up earlier because no one took the lead, and the reputation of the Malfoy family was too imposing for them to dare to challenge. But now, Professor McGonagall had taken the lead, and they were not going to miss this chance to express their grievances.

"Professor McGonagall, my son didn't mean that... If he said something wrong, I will make sure he apologizes to everyone. But professor, the reason I acted was because my son was hurt!" Lucius explained sympathetically.

In the past, those who claimed to have pure blood never backed down against wizards of lesser lineage. However, times have changed. The fall of Voldemort had made life even more challenging for pure-bloods. Furthermore, his affiliation as a Death Eater meant he needed to be cautious and act more human.

Seeing Lucius subdued, Professor McGonagall decided not to pursue the matter further. The Malfoy family still held significant influence and held positions on the school's board. She had expressed her concern, but she was not afraid; her primary worry was for Braun.

She turned her attention back to Braun, sensing he understood her unspoken message. Before she could speak, Braun spoke up willingly:

"Professor, I merely created a minor illusion resembling a Boggart's effect. It only causes individuals to see things that frighten them. The effect wears off quickly. If you doubt me, you can splash a basin of water on his face."

Lucius, upon hearing Braun's explanation, naturally remained skeptical. He had witnessed his son in pain with his own eyes. Could a simple illusion cause such harm to his son? He waved his wand, saying, "Aguamenti [Water-Making Spell]!"

Water surged from his wand, splashing onto Draco's face. Draco, who had been motionless, jolted awake. Yet, the panic in his eyes did not fade. Spotting his father, he grew even more agitated.

"Daddy! There are dragons! And werewolves! They're going to eat me!"

Observing his son's incoherent state, Lucius' expression darkened. He scolded him sharply, "Shut up! Aren't you ashamed enough? Where are we?"

While admonishing him, he also cast a calming spell on his son, instantly soothing the terrified Draco. Simultaneously, he realized they had just experienced an illusion.

"Mr. Lucius, I am not lying. Now that Malfoy is awake as well, I think it's time to discuss how you injured me with a spell."

Seeing Professor McGonagall, Braun knew he couldn't confront Lucius today. However, he didn't mind the disgust he felt towards himself or the other party.

"Daddy! It's Braun! He cast a spell on me! He..."

"Shut up!"

Lucius interrupted, looking gloomily at Braun, "What do you want?"

"Have Draco Malfoy apologize to me and Hermione! Additionally, you mentioned apologizing to everyone; we all came to Flourish and Blotts Bookstore to buy books! Why doesn't Mr. Malfoy cover the costs?"

Lucius' face grew even darker. Paying for the book fees wasn't a big deal, but his money wasn't there to be squandered. He didn't want to give it away so easily. However, Braun had the support of all the wizards present. Even if he wanted to decline, he couldn't say anything. He gritted his teeth and reluctantly accepted, "Fine! I'm happy to pay for everyone. This is our apology from the Malfoy family. At least we won't act like some small households!"

Lucius retorted, but Braun paid little attention to his words. Laugh at my small family, and I'll laugh at your misfortune. Regardless of the Malfoy family's current affluence, it would soon face isolation in a few years. By Draco's generation, it would have lost its influence long ago. The days of pure-blood aristocracy were dwindling. How arrogant the Malfoy family was now would determine how miserable they would be in the future.

Seeing Braun still smiling, Lucius grew angrier. However, under Professor McGonagall's gaze, he didn't dare to act out of line. "Apologize, Draco Malfoy!" Facing his father's stern gaze, Draco agreed reluctantly, though his sincerity seemed lacking.

"Then let's go, Professor!" Lucius forced a grin and, without waiting for Professor McGonagall's response, angrily led his son Draco away.

At this moment, Professor McGonagall shifted her attention. Instead of leaving, she walked over to Braun with concern, asking, "Would you like to go to St. Mungo's?"

Braun shook his head. "No, Professor. I just tripped, and Lucius attended to it. I'm not injured."

"Alright, but remember to speak up. Also, avoid engaging with those purebloods in the future. They're not good company," Professor McGonagall cautioned. In the end, she showed no intention of leaving and accompanied Braun, seemingly planning to see him home. Braun didn't know whether to laugh or cry at the situation.