Disclaimer: I own nothing
The countryside welcomed me with its serene beauty and tranquility. The air felt different in a way that was freeing. The sky was a beautiful shade of clear blue. The songs of birds and cries of insects were in harmony with the fresh morning breeze. I was standing sipping tea beside the window, dressed in a simple plain shirt and black pants. It has been two days since my rebirth.
I had met up with mother after the battle with Antonin and his accomplices. She had been told by Father to find me and leave while he went to handle some "business". She had been very worried and refused to let me out of her sight since she found me despite all assurances that I had been in the stands when the attack happened and was properly out of the way.
We portkeyed home and waited for Father. He came back later in the night where he revealed that the ministry had found the bodies of Mrs Zabini, Antonin Dolohov and his two accomplices. Mother got hysterical at the death of her friend and Father worried about the appearance of Dolohov and what it meant for the safety of the Malfoys. He promptly created a port key to France and off we went, to the French countryside. That was two nights ago.
I said nothing of the attack on me and a good night's sleep cleared all effects of the cruciatus curse.
So far, I was enjoying France. It was a good place to be in our chateau. The chateau stood tall, an emblem of aristocratic grandeur, its walls crafted of ancient stone etched with delicate carvings, embraced by the sprawling vineyard whose foliage shimmered under the golden sunlight, while the gardens surrounding it blossomed with a vivacious array of flowers, painting the landscape in a riot of hues—a picturesque scene that whispered tales of timeless elegance and natural beauty. The room was particularly spacious. The ceiling was decorated with the blue and white chandeliers I came to expect in this house.
Directly facing the entrance were several windows that let in the sun light that illuminated the room. The stables were sturdy but empty, no magical creatures in ground apart from the house elfs, two of them.
In all, it was a really great place, France, that is. We had roots here, Father liked to remind me. I was just happy to be away from home. Since the attack, there had been a chill in the air. A very strong hint of danger. Its possibility hung on a knife's edge, where a tip in any direction would signal disaster.
The daily prophet didn't help in that aspect either, labelling the killings of muggles at the quidditch cup a sign of the return to dark times and the lady Zabini, a victim of ritual magic by the attackers. The appearance of the dark mark at an international event served to once again remind the wizarding world of the terror of Voldemort and an embarrassment to the British Ministry of Magic.
Father went out everyday to the ministry at Fudge's summons to help run damage control internationally with his reputation.
It has been Mother and I in the daytime and she usually just kept to her wing of the chateau.
Then there was this;
Tutorial mode over. Quests will receive rewards. Stats can be increased by performing special actions, training, completing [Quests] or by using Stat Points gained when levelling up.
The command "status" will now show stats.
"Status"
Name: Draco Malfoy
Race: Homo Magi
Title: N/A
HP: 100/100
MP: 100/100
Level: 2
EXP: 200/1000
ATTRIBUTES
Strength: 24/100
Endurance: 46/100
Agility : 32/100
Charisma: 37/100
Intelligence: 54/100
Wisdom: 27/100
Luck: 20
Status
Buffs:
N/A
Debuffs:
N/A
Skills:
[Gamer's Mind] (Passive)
Description: Allows the user to calmly and logically think things through in most circumstances. Allows a peaceful state of the mind. Immunity to psychological and mental status effects, prevents possession.
[Gamer's Body] (Passive)
Description: Grant's a body that allows for the user to live the world like a game. Pain from damage does not last more than a few seconds. Sleeping restores HP, MP and heals all temporary status effects.
Resonance magic:
Subset
Resonance sensing
Tantric manipulation:
Subset
Drain
Space magic:
Subset
Apparition
Transfiguration: Level 19
Charms: Level 25
Potions: Level 45
Alchemy: Level 5
Divination: Level 2
Dark Magic: Level 15
I focused more on [Race] to bring up more information about it.
Race: Homo Magi
The Homo Magi are capable of casting spells and using magic in means that would be unavailable to normal humans. Using foci, artefacts, tomes, or items greatly doubles the strength of the Homo Magi's base magic, and they are also capable of casting without the need of a foci, simply by drawing forth from the pool of magic within them.
My stats were pitiful, none had crossed the half mark, my repertoire was not something to be proud of, MP low. Against powerhouses the likes of Albus and Voldemort, I was but an ant. I had a lot of improvements to make to myself.
To my left I could see book shelves containing thousands of mundane skill books; etiquettes, economics, dancing, piano, bargaining. I had absorbed them. There were no magical ones however. All magical books were kept in the study I checked.
Dropping my cup, I turned and not two seconds later, a house elf popped in and said in a pitched voice
"Master Draco, Mistress says to ask if you are ready. She bees waiting at the foyer"
My resonance sense, as I had discovered, was my strongest sense, even stronger than my sight. Experiencing the resonance of things was a deep tactile feedback that couldn't be ignored. The tearing of space by apparition even more so.
"I'll be right there" I replied
The elf popped off, taking with it the empty tea cup and tray.
Mother had the brilliant idea of purchasing a horse for me after I made the statement that the stables were empty. She liked to do these kind of things whenever we came to France. She immediately got us an invite to a Horse auction, an exclusive event where French purebloods came together to mingle and spend ridiculous amounts of money buying animals. All sort of exotic creatures and otherwise were sold there. It was basically a ball measuring contest socially too.
Grabbing a black coat from my dresser, I took steps to the door and at the last step, apparated and disapparated at the foyer entrance. It was soundless, Mother didn't even turn around. The ability to feel the tearing of space letting me know the precise way to create a hole and come out the other end seamlessly. My apparition had leveled up a lot these past two days.
"Mother, I'm ready."
"Good, the port key is ready."
She grabbed my arm and off we disappeared.
We reappeared in a large hall, with a large crowd. The hall was decorated with banners and flags of various colors and symbols, representing the different families and factions of the French wizarding society. The air was filled with the sounds of chatter and laughter, mixed with the occasional roar or screech of some magical beast. It was a sensory overload, but also a thrilling spectacle.
Narcissa leaned in to whisper in my ear
"So I had a brag to a few of my friends about your talent with a piano. Perhaps you would not mind entertaining them?"
I knew performing for her yesterday wasn't a good idea but I had been interested in leveling up my piano playing skills.
Quest unlocked:
Impress the crowd with your piano skills
Rewards:
900 EXP
5 Levels to Piano
D-ranked item
No objections left my mouth however, I swallowed down my words and I stepped unto the grand piano centre stage and began to play.
.........
Narcissa watched as her son began, his fingers effortlessly gliding across the instrument, each stroke and each note perfectly aligning with what she idly identified as Beethoven's Fifth Symphony but better, swiftly filling the expansive hall with teary-eyed witches and wizards.
The Auction hall resonated with the sound of his music, captivating the audience with its beauty and power. The chandeliers sparkled above them, casting a soft glow on the velvet curtains and the polished floor. The air was filled with the aroma of roses and champagne, mingled with music to create a moment. She knew her son was talented, but this was beyond her expectations. He had not only mastered the piano, but also the art of captivating an audience. He had not only played a muggle piece, but also made it his own. He had not only impressed the crowd, but also made a statement.
Narcissa, observing the scene, could barely conceal her overwhelming pride as the room erupted in approval for her son. Tears welled in the eyes of many, moved to emotional depths by the breathtaking musical rendition.
Draco rose from the piano, gracefully acknowledging the applause with a deep, formal bow. Narcissa marveled at his inscrutable expression—unfathomable and enigmatic, a blend of professionalism and indifference that maintained the allure of his performance. She found solace in the fact that Draco's demeanor, void of cockiness or fatigue, added to the aura of his effortless composition.
The audience, including the scrutinizing French aristocrats, searched for any hint of strain or fatigue in Draco's countenance, yet found none. His indifference only augmented his value in their eyes, transforming the renditions of classical maestros into mere amateur attempts before his skill.
Draco's impassive countenance in the wake of his musical prowess elevated his status, portraying an image of nonchalance toward the extraordinary feat he had just accomplished.
That was not the only thing different about her boy. The future of the Black family rested on her shoulders. This was a fact she was aware of the minute Sirius and Bellatrix got locked up.
Sirius
That had been a surprise to hear, well not so surprising. The Dark Lord's ability to win over the hearts of men and women was unquestioned, so long as you wanted something and were ambitious, he would make you feel like the only thing stopping you was, well, you and your inability to take control. A control that he offered.
So yes, the future of the Black family rested on her shoulders, it was her duty to see that an appropriate heir was raised.
Toujour Pur
How those words haunted her even now. She had done her duty; She had kept the bloodline pure. Now it was her responsibility to raise the perfect heir.
Andromeda had escaped her responsibility, Bellatrix was well locked up and even if she wasn't, it wasn't in her nature. Bella had always been more of a soldier, a loyal servant for the Dark Lord to use.
She had tried to instill in Draco since childhood: the responsibilities of being a scion of the House of Black, not just Malfoy. Her lessons never took. Her son found more joy in imitating his father and doing so poorly. She had made mention of this several times, complaining to Lucius that they were in essence raising a clone of himself. He always just chuckled, finding it funny and feeling proud to raise a son that wanted to be so much like his father.
Men and their ego.
She had tried. She certainly wasn't going to force him and make him go through what she had to do as a kid. She made that promise to herself growing up, no child of hers was going to go through that. So she kept mute.
But recently Draco had gotten more, dare she say it, mature, now being content to spend more time with her especially since the death of Laine.
Oh Laine
Lucius had assured her that it wasn't anyone from the old crowd that killed her, used in some sort of ritual. It didn't make any sense to her at all. She would have concluded it was Antonin Dolohov but his body and two others had been found, killed by an unknown. This unknown was her suspect in the death of Laine.
"That was very beautiful, Narcissa."
Narcissa's eyes shot over to the sound of the voice, noticing someone she certainly expected to see.
"Appoline" she responded gracing her with a slight smile and a tilt of the head.
Appoline Delacour stood beside her, watching the stage.
Soft, beautiful delicate features with a well-sculpted nose and a pretty mouth, healthy smooth skin with no blemishes, a crown of cascading blonde hair.
The black gown she wore looked positively sinful on such an endowed figure. Her half Veela heritage could not be hidden. She basically radiated sex appeal.
"You've raised an impressive son, Narcissa. Very impressive." She said staring at Draco as he left the stage walking towards them.
"I heard about what happened at the World Cup, about Laine. I called in a few favors, no one knows anything. I didn't even know she was back to Britain."
Narcissa's eyes were sharp. She flickered her gaze left and right to ensure no one was overhearing their conversation, before slowly taking a sip of her blue cocktail, as though wetting her throat to prepare herself for an uneasy admission.
"She had just come back."
"And her latest man, how is he? Where did they go for honeymoon this time? Greece?"
"Rome and he's dead."
"Of course. They didn't call her the Black Widow for nothing" said Appoline.
"C'mon Appoline, she's just died." Narcissa felt a headache coming on.
"That doesn't make it any less true."
To a half Veela like Appoline, the concept of killing one's mate never sat well with her and so she and Laine never got along.
"Still I know it's not easy, losing a friend. I know how much she meant to you. Perhaps, I should come keep you company, like old times" she continued, her smile akin to that of a venomous snake.
"I'm married, Apolline" Narcissa said stiffly.
"And? That never stopped you and Laine." Appoline looked at her, eyes belaying a deep amusement.
"The auction has started, Mother."
.........
Quest completed.
You have gained 900 EXP!
You have leveled up!
You have now gained:
[Rule of Cool-Single use Item]
This allows the user to enact an epic action no matter how impossible of a feat it is for the host's current power. However the action cannot harm another entity and is purely theatrical, a display of sheer audacity, a grand gesture defying conventional limitations, showcasing the host's prowess without any detrimental effects. Can be activated with a single thought.
They were clapping. They were clapping. The lot of them. They sat down, some stood and listened to me play and they were clapping. Lapping it all up. I could see people dapping their eyes to clear their tears.
I almost chuckled.
I couldn't blame them with Piano skill at level 83 and resonance magic. It was a piece of cake to play and even improve on music. I made music sound ethereal.
They're shaking my hands now. Nod and smile. No, I do not give private performances. No, I haven't been to a musical school. You were touched by the music. Good for you.
I walked straight to Mother, and my breath immediately hitched in my throat.
Beside her stood sin.
That was the only way to describe her.
The expansive swell of her chest pushed and fought against the underneath of her dress, visibly shaking as she conversed with mother. The curve of her neck down to her neck and her oh so very red lips. She was magnificent.
"The sale has started Mother" I said, gaze still on the beauty.
They both turned and looked at me, mother's eyes lit up. She stepped to me, kissing my cheeks.
"Oh Draco, you are here. My friend here was having doubts about your talent but I think you've won her over."
I was gazing over her shoulder to her friend, our gaze now locked on each other. She took in a deep breath inhaling,nostrils flaring and raked her eyes over my form, head to toe.
It seemed I was not the only one affected this way.
It was like the quidditch cup all over again.
"This is Appoline Delacour."
Right. Fleur's mother. The half veela. Of course. I had read great many fanfics about her, a lot of fantasies written about her, and I could definitely understand why now. She definitely was very impressive.
I let her know that by responding with "Charmed."
"Your mother is right. Consider me charmed over. I am very impressed with your music." Appoline said with a smile. "I've never heard music so beautiful before."
"Nor will you ever again," Narcissa spoke up, with a smile of hers. "At least, not so publically. Draco here is one of a kind of course so he won't be performing for just anyone."
"I'm not just anyone. I'm sure we can come to some kind of agreement" Appoline turned her gaze to meet me "You really play so well.."
"I surprise myself everytime" I replied.
"Humble aren't you?"
"Of course, my mother taught me best."
"Because Narcissa is the definition of humility" she smiled sardonically.
"My mother is a lot of things, Mrs Delacour. I only play as well as I can because of her. You see I've been told that when you need to do something, you channel the one person who you know best at doing that. When I decide to try my hand at being the best at what I do, I discovered that I channel my mother a lot." I continued.
"Oh my. Please call me Appoline" she remarked.
"Of course, Appoline."
"Well, the auction is just starting but I see you ladies are busy right now so I'll go on ahead. Of course if my services are being put up for sale, I'll be happy to know and discuss terms" my mind going to pumping these rich witches and wizards for their money.
Her mouth twitched.
"Bye now ladies." I kissed mother's cheek.
"Bye Draco."
I walked up into the main hall which had the circular space adorned with pillars, encircling a glass stage where a spirited auction was underway. A man, the auctioneer, presided within the glass ring, orchestrating bids for a horse being paraded before the assembled guests.
"Thirty five thousand, thirty five thousand five hundred, thirty six thousand, thank you, thirty six thousand five hundred, am I bid?" His gavel resounded against the table "I am bid, sold to Mr Archambault."
Taking my seat, I glanced at the tag placed before me
"Next we have Farstride by Mahal out of the Lady Josephine, Camargue stud" he bellowed, a magnificent black horse being displayed. "We'll start the bidding at forty thousand galleons."
I knew immediately that I wanted this one. It was a magnificent beast, muscled flank emanating strength in its every stride.
I immediately raised my tag.
"Do I hear forty thousand five hundred? am I bid? Forty-two thousand, am I bid?"
I raised my tag again, joined by others in the room.
"Forty-two thousand five hundred, do I have forty-three thousand?"
"Forty-three!" a pretty female voice echoed attached to an outstretched hand holding a tag. I couldn't see a face. She was obscured by those in front.
"Forty-three thousand five hundred, do I hear forty-five thousand?"
I was not losing this auction.
"Forty-five thousand five hundred, forty-seven, do I have forty seven?"
The lady's hand was raised again.
"Fifty thousand, fifty thousand, am I bid?" I raised my hand.
"Fifty-five, sixty, sixty-five, am I bid, sixty-five, seventy!" her hand raised.
"Eighty, eighty-five, am I bid?"
"Ninety, ninety-five, a hundred, am I bid?"
"Hundred thousand, last time" All tags were down now. It seemed no one was interested in spending a hundred thousand galleons on this particular horse now, even the pretty voice. My tag was the only one up now.
"And sold to Mister?" The auctioneer inquired, banging the gavel.
"Malfoy. Draco Malfoy" I replied.
.........
As I departed the Auctioneer's office, having concluded the transaction and specified the drop-off location, a familiar voice echoed behind me,
"You beat me to it" I turned, recognizing the voice as the one that had caught my attention during the bidding – the "Pretty voice."
"Pretty voice? Oh wow…that is…thank you ." She replied, her cheeks reddening. "My voice is not usually what I get complimented by when I meet someone".
And I could see why. Once again, it was like the quidditch cup.
Her allure was undeniable, a captivating presence that stirred something in me. My gaze traced a path from her lips to her chest and then to her eyes. Her eyes sparkled mischievously, adding to her magnetic charm, a teasing glint to it that just seemed so naughty. Her features, from her button nose to her bright pink lips that seemed to glisten with a tantalizing hue, fair of skin, blond of hair. She smelled strongly of lavender and berry. The scent tickled my nose.
With a blush on her cheeks, she appeared entirely kissable. Our eyes locked, I could sense a mutual fascination reflected in her eyes.
"I was trying to nab a stud for my filly" she talked in a sexy accent.
Merlin, even her wording had a teasing quality to it.
"I'm sure there are no shortage of studs." I replied, intrigued by her approach.
"Yeah but I'm particularly interested in this one. I haven't seen you around before" she continued "I attend Beauxbatons, currently back home for the holidays. I'll be returned to school soon."
Ah Beauxbatons. I realized her identity.
"I attend Hogwarts". I replied.
"Oh my, how drab, you have my sympathies" she teased.
I barked out a surprised chuckle.
"For going to Hogwarts?"
"Of course, Britain is rather drab and worse, wet. Dull colors too, not very vibrant. Where is the life? The music, terribly unimaginative. However, you do play the piano exceptionally well."
I smiled. I was doing a lot of that. She had watched me play.
"I've always admired those with musical talents. If I possessed such skills. I would make music of it, men and women from all over would come to listen. Perhaps I can hear you play again sometime" she suggested.
"Perhaps" I replied noncommittally.
"Terrible conversationalist, aren't you?" she remarked.
"I hardly know you" I replied.
"Perhaps we can get to know each other then. I am hosting a farewell party tonight before I go back to Beauxbatons. I am inviting friends , and I thought it would be splendid to have you at the party. We can show you how we celebrate in the French style."
"Friends now are we?"
"Of course. Haven't you heard? Strangers are friends we haven't met yet. Now we have met. Besides something tells me we are quite similar than you know." Her smile growing wider.
This was an unexpected yet alluring invitation to an evening that promised more than just cultural exposure.
"So will you consider it?" Her invitation lingered in the air, her eyes awaited my response with an air of expectancy.
"I'll be there" I confirmed. "I would introduce myself but I'm sure you already knew this friend's name."
"Of course, Draco Malfoy" she acknowledged and extended her hand to me
"I'm Fleur Delacour."
I moved her hand to my lips, and lightly kissed her knuckles, our eyes locked in a steady gaze
"Charmed."
And that's it for chapter 4. I tried to make it longer like you all requested.
I hope you enjoy.
Ciao.