บท 82: Chapter 82: The Silent Night
If progress continued at this rate, Augustus believed he could soon decipher the intricate conditions of spell editing. With that knowledge, he could establish the foundation for the vast magical system he envisioned. The catalyst for the World Tree was approaching its optimal state. Once the model of the World Tree was fully conceptualized, the monumental project could begin smoothly. Augustus glanced at the faintly glowing sapling in his hand, his silver eyes gleaming with subtle satisfaction. The tasks of absorbing, transforming, and constructing the model had become his primary focus during the holiday. Apart from eating and his basic routines, nearly all his time was spent in the library.
"Master Augustus, the Lady requests your presence in the drawing room," a house-elf announced, appearing near the library's massive mahogany doors and bowing respectfully. Augustus paused, his gaze resting briefly on the trembling elf.
"I understand. You may go; I'll be there shortly," Augustus replied calmly. He knew his mother, Aurora, wouldn't interrupt him unless it was something important. The house-elf sighed in relief, nodded, and promptly vanished.
Closing the book in his hands, Augustus looked at the crystalline sapling. Its roots entwined intricately, shimmering faintly in the light. Smiling faintly, he clenched his hand, and the immaculate white sapling vanished into thin air. Rising from his chair, he left the library.
Walking through the long corridors of the manor, bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun, Augustus reached the drawing room. Aurora and Clovis were engaged in conversation but stopped as Augustus entered. Clovis motioned for him to sit down.
"It's like this, Augustus," Aurora began. "This year's noble gathering will be held at the Malfoy family estate. The location was decided by your father and the other nobles after some deliberation. Since Lucius Malfoy was recently removed from the Hogwarts Board of Governors, it's only fair to offer him a conciliatory gesture. Last year, it was important for you to make a strong impression during your first appearance. This year, however, most of the wizarding aristocracy already knows who you are, so it's your choice whether to attend or not."
After a moment of thought, Augustus decided that the gathering might be a good opportunity to relax after his intense work. He agreed, and the three prepared for their departure. Soon, they boarded the manor's carriage, which rose into the evening sky, gliding toward the horizon bathed in the sun's final rays.
The Malfoy Manor wasn't far, located in Wiltshire, England. By the time the last glimmer of sunlight disappeared, they had arrived.
Lucius Malfoy stood at the entrance, his gray-blue eyes glinting with a warm smile as he spotted the Julius family's carriage. He approached with long strides, greeting Clovis, Aurora, and Augustus as they alighted.
"Clovis, my dear friend, you've finally arrived. Yours is the last family to make an appearance. Any later, and the banquet might have started without you!" Lucius joked lightly.
"My apologies for being late. I'll punish myself with three glasses later," Clovis replied with a carefree smile.
"You said it, so I'll hold you to it," Lucius grinned, ensuring Clovis couldn't retract his promise.
The Malfoy Manor exuded an air of grandeur. Its meticulously designed gardens featured fountains and white peacocks roaming freely. As they passed through the ornate iron gates, Augustus felt as though he were stepping into a realm veiled by mist.
Inside, the manor was equally magnificent. The drawing room boasted deep purple wallpaper, opulent chandeliers, and luxurious furnishings. Marble fireplaces gleamed beneath golden mirrors, and the floors, covered in exquisite rugs, reflected the richness of the home.
Clusters of pure-blood wizards filled the room, their conversations buzzing in every corner. As Lucius escorted the Julius family in, numerous witches and wizards turned their attention toward them, forming groups to greet Clovis.
"Over here, Augustus! We've been waiting for you!" a familiar voice called out. Augustus turned to see Lilian, Malfoy, and Loki gathered in a corner. Lilian waved enthusiastically, eager to catch his attention.
After excusing himself from his parents, Augustus made his way to his friends.
"How have your training sessions been?" he asked casually as he approached.
"Ice magic is fascinating! I've been studying it all holiday, and I've reached the level of a sixth-tier mage. If I continue like this, I'll probably break through to the master tier within half a year," Loki replied confidently, his amber eyes sparkling with determination.
"Uh... I've reached the third tier," Lilian admitted with a grimace. "Though compared to this lunatic"—she gestured at Loki—"it feels insignificant. But I've been training hard too!"
"Well, I've managed to reach the second tier," Malfoy said sheepishly. "But I'm close to breaking into the third tier after this holiday." His nonchalant tone suggested he didn't see his slower progress as a problem.
Augustus sighed, rubbing his temples. Malfoy's leisurely pace was almost comical compared to the rapid progress of his other students.
"Greetings, everyone," a clear voice interrupted. A young man with golden hair and piercing blue eyes approached, his presence radiating a sharp, commanding energy. "This must be Augustus. It's an honor to meet you. I'm Saul, Saul Stuart."
Augustus met his deep blue gaze, catching the faint crackle of lightning within. For a moment, the atmosphere seemed to hum with an unspoken energy.
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