Chapter 96: Their Decision
A gentle breeze rustled through the sprawling manor gardens of the Hufflepuff estate, where Alaric had invited his friends for a private discussion.
The sky was clear, with the afternoon sun casting golden light over the well-manicured lawns and the intricate stone paths that wound through the property.
Lilith and Ember arrived nearly at the same time, greeted by a polite house-elf who led them through the hallways of the grand mansion.
Unlike the ancient and gothic Ravenclaw Manor where Nero resided, the Hufflepuff estate exuded a different kind of elegance, a blend of modern enchantments and classical architecture.
Tall arched windows filled the house with natural light, and the interior was decorated with tasteful, enchanted artifacts that hummed with barely restrained magical energy.
Alaric was already waiting for them in a spacious study, where a round oak table stood at the center, surrounded by plush leather chairs.
The walls were lined with towering bookshelves, filled with everything from ancient spell books to detailed records on magical law and wizarding politics.
A tea set was already prepared, steam rising from the elegantly crafted porcelain cups.
Lilith and Ember took their seats, each looking at Alaric expectantly.
Alaric took a breath before speaking.
"Nero's announcement yesterday was a shock," he began, breaking the silence.