Chapter 128: The So-Called Truth
"We gave it our all last match, so the result doesn't matter that much," Cho replied with a gentle smile. "But since we're talking about matches, Gryffindor should be playing you in the finals soon. I genuinely hope your house wins. Personally, I'm rooting for Slytherin."
Malfoy was caught off guard by her unexpected comment, his expression turning a bit awkward. Augustus interjected with a slight smile, "Gryffindor does hold the advantage, but thanks for your good wishes. Slytherin will certainly aim for a comeback. Pressure often turns into motivation for players. Let's hope they seize the opportunity."
"Captain Chang, what are your thoughts on Potter? Facing him as an opponent last time must've been quite an experience, I assume?" Lillian, for some reason, seemed intent on linking Cho with Harry, making it the centerpiece of her remarks.
Cho glanced at Augustus, a subtle smile gracing her lips. "Harry's flying skills are indeed extraordinary, and I admire him as a competitor. But outside of matches, we haven't really interacted, so I wouldn't say I know him well. Lillian, you've mentioned Harry a few times now—it seems you're quite fond of him."
"Ah, not really, just a passing acquaintance. Nothing more," Lillian replied, her crimson eyes glinting with a strange expression. "Though I do think you should spend more time with Harry. In some ways, you two seem like a good match."
Cho's expression soured slightly, clearly not expecting Lillian's bluntness and disregard for tact. Before she could respond, one of her companions spoke up indignantly, "If you like Harry, just say so! Why drag Cho into it? Shameless."
The atmosphere became tense. Lillian's eyes gleamed coldly as she sneered, "Where did this little brat come from? Such poor manners. For a Ravenclaw, you seem quite lacking in decorum."
Augustus sighed internally. This situation was spiraling out of control far too quickly. Women truly were natural-born instigators of chaos. "Lillian's words were a bit excessive. Cho, please don't take it too personally. Her personality has always been direct. If she offended you, I hope you can forgive her."
Cho's expression dimmed slightly. While Augustus's apology outwardly seemed respectful, it was clear he was siding with Lillian, treating her as one of his own. Otherwise, he wouldn't be apologizing on her behalf.
"It's fine. Lillian's straightforwardness is rather charming. As for Harry and me, we really haven't interacted much, so it's all a bit overblown," Cho responded calmly, appearing unbothered by Lillian's remarks.
"If there's nothing else, we'll be heading off. Let's meet again sometime," Cho said coolly, nodding to Augustus before leading her companions out.
"Take care," Augustus replied with a small smile, waving as they left.
The golden sunlight streamed through the tavern's doorway, filling the room with a gentle warmth.
"Honestly, Augustus, why did you apologize to them? They were clearly the ones being rude. With our status, even if we're in the wrong, it's not like those half-bloods have any right to belittle us," Lillian grumbled, still fuming over the earlier exchange.
"Well said," Malfoy chimed in eagerly. "If it weren't for Cho being somewhat polite, I'd have humiliated her right from the start. She's just a Quidditch captain—where does she get that attitude? You saw the way she carried herself. It's like she wanted to tattoo the word 'Captain' on her forehead. People like her are worse than the so-called 'Chosen One.' At least Potter doesn't act so pretentious."
"They're gone now. There's no need to keep badmouthing them behind their backs," Augustus said with a faint smile. "You two are taking this far too seriously. Sometimes, there's no point in fixating on a few words. It's better to broaden your horizons. Making a friend is always better than making an enemy. Even Voldemort needed alliances with werewolves, vampires, and giants. No one can conquer the world alone."
Lillian reluctantly nodded, picking up her golden butterbeer goblet and taking a small sip.
"Draco, there's something I need to tell you," Augustus said suddenly, glancing at Malfoy. "About Buckbeak—I've already agreed to intervene at Hagrid's request, so you might want to prepare yourself."
"I already know," Malfoy replied, his expression unusually calm. "I only intended to use Hagrid to get at Harry anyway. If that fool thought of seeking your help, so be it. It was just a prank."
"You wanted to prosecute that Hippogriff? Such a lovely creature, and you went after it? Truly heartless," Lillian teased with a look of mock disdain.
Augustus was surprised by Malfoy's composure. "You've spent so much effort scheming, and it's all for nothing now. Doesn't that bother you?"
Malfoy's calm demeanor cracked instantly. He slumped dramatically, adopting an obsequious tone. "If anyone else ruined my plans, I'd have them torn apart and condemned to eternal damnation. But since Hagrid sought you out, what can I do? Am I the kind of fool who doesn't know when to quit? Alas..." He sighed deeply, his despair almost theatrical.
"Enough of that," Augustus said, slightly embarrassed. "There's no need to be so despondent. In hindsight, targeting a mere animal isn't exactly something to be proud of. It's better to direct your efforts toward meaningful objectives. Misusing your power will only backfire, no matter how effective it seems in the short term."
"Power and authority must be wielded wisely, reserved for situations that truly matter. Carelessness will only lead to disaster. Growth demands careful planning and introspection every step of the way," Augustus mused.
The sunlight streaming through the window illuminated the amber liquid in the goblets, its shimmering ripples creating a moment of warmth tinged with an almost blinding brightness.
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