Chapter 46 – Like Father, Like Son
The first few days were really nice, and I didn't enjoy school like this last year. Or at least, I don't think so. All was great until it was time for our first Dark Arts lesson. I knew it would not be something nice because of the father and son duo, but I wasn't expecting what would happen in the end.
"From this year onward," Lucius explained the moment he strolled into the classroom with his fancy walking cane, "You will start learning what it means to use magic... the proper way." Just as he said it, Draco sat up straight, proud like a peacock, making my stomach turn. "Anguine! Come out!"
"..." I only looked at Lucius once before shrugging, standing up, and feeling Quincy's eyes follow my back with a bit of worry flickering in them.
"Slow!" He tapped the stone floor with his cane impatiently.
"Sorry." After a brief pause, I murmured, adding the last part, "Professor."
"Your father is said to be a great duelist!" He continued with a sneer hanging on his face, looking down at me.
"22 against 4," I answered plainly, and although nobody understood it, the change in Lucius's expression, fighting hard to maintain his sadistic smile, filled me with satisfaction. It was how many times my Father won over him in their official duels.
"Today's lesson will be about proper dueling etiquette!" Lucian continued, pulling his wand out of his cane, waving it, and making space for practicing. It didn't take long to realize I would be his partner in demonstrating how it is done.
"Okay..." I thought to myself, feeling my blood boil, my anger rising. He wanted to humiliate me because he couldn't do the same to my Father? Win a duel against me? I can take a lot of things... but this is ridiculous... I won't play along!
"A wizarding duel is to showcase two wizards or witches' skills and can only be fought by magical means!" Lucian explained, standing at the opposite side of me, watching me perform the courteous bow that was required by the etiquette... not that he imitated me in response. I knew it was beneath him to bow to a student, especially to the son of his most hated colleague. Or rival, but I failed to see him as my Father's equal. "All spells are allowed in a duel, but of course, this being a lesson, I will act accordingly!" He smirked, signaling to Draco, "There needs to be an official count to three! Son, if you will!"
"With pleasure!" He grinned, standing up and coming close to us, wanting to watch my demise from the front rows. "3... 2... 1...!"