#211 - Chapter 211: Secret Conversation in the Study

Sebastian, with a smile, presented the carefully prepared gifts to Lucius and Narcissa.

The gift for Lucius was a snake-shaped cane, with a smooth silver snake body coiled upwards and emerald gemstones inlaid in the snake's eyes.

Narcissa received a beautiful lady's brooch, with golden vines as the base and delicate gemstones adorning it, showcasing elegance and nobility.

"Thank you for your kindness, Sebastian," Lucius said with a smile. "You are always so thoughtful."

After exchanging pleasantries, Lucius led Sebastian into the mansion behind him.

Sebastian glanced around and noticed that after nearly a decade, the Malfoy family still maintained that ancient air of luxury.

The interior of the house was still filled with elaborate Victorian details, with stone carvings and tapestries complementing each other, creating a solemn and elegant atmosphere.

Although it was slightly less modern compared to Swan Manor, each had its own merits in terms of style and temperament.

Soon, the group arrived at the dining room.

The magnificent dining table was covered with exquisite tablecloths, the goblin-made silverware gleamed, and a lavish feast was placed in the center of the table, with red wine reflecting a charming luster in the candlelight.

The dinner began in a pleasant atmosphere.

Sebastian conversed with the Malfoy couple with ease, and the topic quickly turned to Draco's performance at Hogwarts.

"Sebastian, Draco has been spoiled by us. We're counting on you to take care of him at school."

"Rest assured, Draco is very diligent in his studies. You won't find many in Slytherin who are more hardworking than him."

Listening to Sebastian's praise, the smiles on Lucius and Narcissa's faces never faded.

The atmosphere at the dinner table became increasingly harmonious, with toasts and laughter echoing throughout, and for a time, everyone was enjoying themselves.

After the dinner, Lucius led Sebastian to his study, which was protected by top-notch defensive magic. Closing the door could prevent anyone from eavesdropping.

After sitting down, Sebastian cut to the chase: "Lucius, I'm here today to share an important piece of news with you."

"Oh?" Lucius raised an eyebrow slightly. "What important news requires you to come and explain it in person?"

He picked up the tea on the table and took a light sip.

Seeing Lucius's nonchalant expression, Sebastian grinned and said softly, "Lucius, you may not know, but the Dark Lord has returned."

A bombshell!

Lucius shuddered violently, lost his grip on the cup, and let it fall to the ground.

Clang—

The scalding tea spilled all over the floor, and some even splashed on his shoes.

How is that possible?!

Lucius could hardly believe his ears.

Hasn't the Dark Lord been dead for over a decade?

And didn't he die inexplicably while killing that child?

That brat named Harry Potter is called the Savior because of that!

How could he possibly reappear?

Moreover, even if he did, why haven't any of the Death Eaters received the news?

Instead, you, an outsider, are the first to know.

Lucius completely disregarded the tea splashed on his feet, and stared intently at Sebastian, lowering his voice and saying, "Do you know what you're saying?"

"Of course," Sebastian replied, meeting Lucius's gaze and repeating each word clearly, "The Dark Lord has returned."

"Moreover, according to various signs, the Dark Lord will definitely make a comeback within three to five years."

"Sebastian, you're lying to me, aren't you," Lucius's voice trembled slightly. "The Dark Lord... isn't he already dead?"

Looking at Lucius's panicked expression, Sebastian chuckled softly, "Everyone says he's dead, so does that mean he must be dead?"

"Back in the Potter's house, the Dark Lord's body was never found."

Sebastian leaned forward slightly: "The year before last, I personally saw the Dark Lord in his wraith form sneaking into Hogwarts, trying to steal the Sorcerer's Stone."

"You see, not only is he not dead, but he has also been working hard to find a chance to resurrect."

"What, hearing this news, shouldn't you be very happy?"

"Happy... Of course I'm happy..." Lucius was somewhat incoherent, no longer as calm as before.

But is he really happy?

Lucius's heart was filled with mixed feelings.

Back when he followed the Dark Lord, the Malfoy family was indeed infinitely glorious.

As the Dark Lord's favorite, he did enjoy quite a bit, receiving courtesy from everyone wherever he went.

Even when he met the Minister for Magic, the other party would speak to him politely.

If he had known this news in the two years before the Dark Lord disappeared, then he would definitely have happily gone to seek him out.

But more than ten years have passed, things have changed, and the Malfoy family has become accustomed to not having anyone above them giving orders.

Moreover, in order to escape punishment back then, he had tried his best to distance himself from the Dark Lord in the Wizengamot's courtroom.

Lucius was somewhat apprehensive.

The Dark Lord reappearing without contacting his Death Eaters, does that mean he no longer trusts them?

Otherwise, how could he not have known anything about the Dark Lord stealing the Sorcerer's Stone?

He clenched his fists tightly, trying to justify himself: "Of course I'm happy, if the Dark Lord returns, I will still be his favorite."

"Lucius, it's okay to lie to me, but don't deceive yourself as well."

Sebastian smiled softly: "I still remember clearly how you emphasized in the courtroom that you were controlled by the Imperius Curse."

"Do you think the Dark Lord who makes a comeback will still trust you?"

"If he really trusted you so much, why didn't he ask you to help him resurrect?"

"You should know that the Malfoy family has a great influence in the wizarding world. With your help, it should be easier for him to resurrect."

"Now it seems that he has never looked for you."

Listening to Sebastian's words, beads of sweat appeared on Lucius's forehead.

He opened his mouth, trying to refute something, but ultimately said nothing.

"Lucius," Sebastian said earnestly, "Our two families have a good relationship, and our cooperation has always been pleasant."

"Back then, the Swan family was able to stay out of trouble entirely because of your mediation."

"In return, when I first became an Auror, I also used my Auror status to help you eliminate some competitors, making your position more stable."

"Even today, Swan Alchemy still maintains close business ties with the Malfoy family."

"That's why I'm willing to share this news with you."

Sebastian adjusted his position, leaned back on the sofa again, and said meaningfully.

"Lucius, it's time for the Malfoy family to choose a side again."

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