Charlie followed Professor Dumbledore into the hall and instantly felt countless gazes focus on him.
It felt like a celebrity walking the red carpet, except the audience was a group of Wizards in strange clothes.
"Charlie, this way," Professor Dumbledore gently reminded him.
The Wizards in the hall gathered around, each with a smile on their face.
"Professor Dumbledore, is this the genius young man?"
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. White."
"He's truly young and accomplished."
Charlie maintained a polite smile, mechanically nodding in greeting.
Nod, smile, handshake, then nod again.
He became an emotionless greeting machine.
The foolish monarch is too cold towards his officials, tyrant points +3.
"No, how was I cold? Do I have to pretend one of my shoes fell off and hold onto the other person's hand?"
Just as Charlie was complaining in his mind, a familiar figure appeared in the crowd.
Platinum blonde hair shimmered under the lights, a meticulously slicked-back hairstyle paired with that sharp, thin face.
It was Draco Malfoy.
Charlie genuinely worried that this boy might go bald prematurely; he used way too much hair gel.
Draco followed behind a tall man who had the same platinum blonde hair, leaned on a snake-headed cane, and exuded an aristocratic arrogance.
Given their identical demeanor and hair color, it wasn't hard to guess they were father and son.
The father and son walked towards Charlie, Draco's steps noticeably hesitant.
Seeing Charlie, Draco instinctively shrank behind his father, like a small animal seeing its natural predator.
Lucius noticed his son's reaction and frowned slightly.
"Draco, come here."
His voice carried an undeniable authority.
Draco was pulled out from behind his father, his expression as reluctant as could be.
"Mr. White." Lucius bowed gracefully.
"It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Allow me to introduce myself, I am Draco's father, Lucius Malfoy."
"Mr. Malfoy." Charlie responded politely.
Lucius nodded in satisfaction, then pushed Draco forward.
"Draco told me you are a young genius. He very much hopes to become friends with you."
Draco's face instantly flushed red, his eyes darting around, like a child dragged by his parents to perform a talent in front of relatives.
Who could resist teasing him a little?
Charlie reached out and put a hand on Draco's shoulder, flashing a benevolent smile.
"Mr. Malfoy, rest assured, Draco and I often have friendly exchanges."
Draco felt the pressure of Charlie's hand and his body stiffened like a board.
He forced a smile, his expression as rigid as could be.
"Yes... yes, we have a very good relationship."
Draco's voice even trembled slightly.
Lucius watched their interaction, a satisfied expression on his face.
"That's good, young people should interact more."
Draco's face turned even paler; who wanted to interact with him!
Just then, a bell rang from the front of the hall.
"Ladies and gentlemen, the investiture ceremony is about to begin, please take your seats."
An official in a dark blue robe announced loudly.
The crowd began to move orderly towards the seating area.
Professor Dumbledore walked over to Charlie.
"Charlie, we should go to the front."
Charlie nodded and waved to Draco.
"See you, Draco."
Draco stiffly waved back, only relaxing completely once Charlie had walked away.
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