Kapitel 245: Chapter 244 "Skyler's Relationships"

"How's it going? Are you confident?" Lucius' tone seemed concerned, but it exuded affirmation and pride.

The hug they exchanged was truly something genuine between both of them; Skyler and Lucius could feel how they melted into each other's warm hugs.

Narcissa stepped forward, embracing Skyler gently before shooting a playful glance at Lucius. "Look at you, dear. Acting as if this competition is anything to worry about..." Her gaze swept arrogantly across the room, landing on the other three champions. "How could opponents of this caliber pose a challenge to my son?"

Skyler nearly choked on his saliva, coughing twice to signal his mother to cease provoking hostility. "Oh my god, I understand you want to boast about me, but even if it's true, don't say it so blatantly in front of others."

Mr. Moreau snorted disapprovingly while Mrs. Weasley and Bill wore uneasy expressions.

Despite Harry being the highest-scoring champion in the second event, Skyler maintained a substantial lead in total points—especially considering the remarkable manner in which he achieved them, surprising even key figures in European wizardry, including the school principal.

Using ancient dragon language to train the evil dragon guarding the golden egg and employing a new and original human body transformation technique to sneak into the bottom of the lake—both instances showcased magic never before witnessed...

So, what new methods will Skyler employ for the third task?

Even Dumbledore likely couldn't fathom it.

Hence, even if Mr. Moreau and Mrs. Weasley harbored doubts, they couldn't muster a rebuttal.

Eleanor's parents didn't harbor dissatisfaction; instead, they regarded Skyler with smiles and admiration.

Mr. Hohenheim approached with measured steps and extended his palm. Lucius recognized him as the most powerful pure-blood family in Germany, worthy of standing alongside the Malfoy family.

He didn't dare to slight the gesture and hastily clasped their hands together. (Unaware of the Serpentis Vigil Club or the alliance between Skyler and the Hohenheim family)

"Mr. Malfoy, I truly envy you for having such an exceptional son." He cast a glance at Skyler before continuing, his tone gentle and polite. "Although I wasn't present for the first two tasks, I've read the detailed accounts in the newspapers. From what I gather, it appears that our other three champions will merely be accompanying your son in this competition, with the final victory almost certainly belonging to your young master."

Though Lucius shared this sentiment, he was well-versed in the art of noble hypocrisy. He smiled and replied, "Your praise is overly generous. Let's not forget, he's three years younger than the other champions. And I believe," he paused, his tone thoughtful, "the outcome of the game remains uncertain until the final results are revealed."

"Indeed," Mr. Hohenheim replied knowingly. "I've instructed Eleanor to give it her all. Even if she doesn't clinch the championship, she mustn't tarnish the family's reputation and standing."

"Sir," Skyler interjected, "allow me to express that Eleanor's prowess is on par with mine, and she possesses numerous advantages in alchemical items. You should have more faith in her abilities." His eyes sparkled as he continued with a smile, "Rest assured, I will give my all and rely solely on my abilities to attain this honor."

"I admire young individuals who possess humility, politeness, and a clear understanding of their own capabilities," Mr. Hohenheim remarked, his smile carrying a deeper significance. "Eleanor has spoken highly of your abilities, and I have every reason to believe her. She could never stand as your equal... As a father with only one daughter, I know her well."

"Don't be deceived by her quiet demeanor. Since childhood, she's been fiercely competitive and determined to excel in everything," he continued a sharp glint appearing in his eyes. "I've never heard her praise anyone as she does you..."

A lightning-like gleam flashed in Mr. Hohenheim's eyes, "You are the first, young Master Malfoy. I wonder what you think of my daughter?"

Lucius and Narcissa exchanged knowing glances, both realizing the implications—

It appeared they weren't here to cause trouble but to discuss a union!

Lucius sneered inwardly. Women were nothing more than distractions, slowing a man's progress. He was a man of worth who was focused on his career. How could he allow himself to be entangled in trivial matters of romance?

"You should be better than this even though you are not the one to. I will pass the family head position," Lucius thought as he scrutinized Skyler.

Besides, Skyler, with his illegitimate status, had too many romantic entanglements.

Come on... Lucius wasn't without intelligence during his time at Hogwarts. He maintained regular contact with Snape, aiding in the collection of foreign banned potion materials while seizing the opportunity to inquire about his two son's progress at school.

According to Snape's reports, Skyler appeared to have captured the affection of both young ladies from the Greengrass family. Then, there was mention of a girlfriend from Ravenclaw. If one included the missing eldest daughter of the Shafiq family, that would make it four girlfriends in total. This guy just doesn't know when to stop. Damn it—

"Why didn't I receive such attention when I was young..." Lucius shook his head, dismissing the slightly dangerous thought.

Narcissa wore a smile that stretched from ear to ear. To her, having a son with such romantic appeal was a testament to his excellence.

"This..." Skyler hesitated.

Sensing the tension, Mr. Hohenheim dangled a tantalizing offer, "As the head of the contemporary Hohenheim family, I can make the decision. If we are fortunate enough to proceed with this union, our family will respect your personal feelings. We won't interfere in any other emotional entanglements and as a token of goodwill—"

"The core top-secret inheritance of our Hohenheim family – human alchemy, can be given to you as a grand gift for your engagement," Mr. Hohenheim continued, his voice resonating with solemnity and promise.

"And upon Eleanor's ascension as the next head of the family, you will also inherit the title of 'son-in-law of the family' in the Hohenheim lineage. This status grants you authority and power equivalent to that of the family head. In the absence of the family head, you will wield supreme control over all matters within the family."

This offer stunned everyone present, leaving Narcissa speechless, her hand covering her mouth in disbelief.

Lucius's eyes sparkled with excitement, his grip on his snake-shaped silver-plated cane tightening. At that moment, he wished he could step forward and accept the marriage proposal on Skyler's behalf.

"Merlin's beard!" Lucius lamented inwardly, "I apologize for the disrespectful thoughts I entertained earlier. A good woman not only doesn't slow down a man in pulling out his wand, but also spares him from at least twenty, no, thirty years of struggle! ...Why didn't I receive such treatment back in my day..."

This was the second time today that Lucius found himself envious and jealous of his son. He couldn't help but recall Narcissa and her two sisters, the legendary "Three Golden Flowers of the Black Family" from their era. He pondered over his own past, his heart tinged with bitterness. "I'm handsome too, and I come from a wealthy background. Why am I not in such a position? What's so special about this brat that everyone finds so enviable..."

Skyler remained undecided.

He understood that a simple nod could instantly double his power. The Hohenheim family, though currently an ally, operated independently of his control. While they supported his plans and actions, they weren't subject to his directives.

Yet, he had his principles and integrity. He refused to leverage his emotions as a political bargaining chip.

Though he didn't outright decline, it wasn't out of disdain for Eleanor. He simply wasn't certain whether their relationship could evolve. After all, who could resist a beautiful, intelligent, resourceful partner willing to assist them?

In no time, the conference room emptied, leaving only a few lingering figures.

The Malfoy family strolled out of the now sparsely populated room and took a leisurely walk along the lakeside.

For the entire morning, they wandered through the castle, exploring every nook and cranny.

As they ambled along the corridors, Lucius occasionally offered critiques on the aesthetics of various statues and paintings, his expressions often betraying a sense of dissatisfaction.

Narcissa, on the other hand, seemed thoroughly delighted to revisit Hogwarts. She regaled Skyler with tales of her student days, recounting various amusing incidents with great enthusiasm. She even mentioned a time when Lucius attempted to court her and was promptly rebuffed, leading to a sound thrashing at the hands of her sister, Skyler's Aunt Bella.

(Despite Bella's apparent disdain for Lucius in the original book, it's worth considering whether her attitude stems from his later betrayal or perhaps from their interactions during their school days.)