Chapter 143 "Moreaus Invitation"

Serpentis Vigil's plan advanced with remarkable smoothness.

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Chang Cho and Susan, the Serpentis Vigil Society's membership swelled to 12 individuals, evenly split between Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw, including the inclusion of Luna.

In Ravenclaw, aside from Luna, Skyler held another student in high regard—second-year Melinda Bobbin.

The Bobbin family had operated thirteen drugstore chains across the UK for generations, establishing a considerable presence throughout Great Britain. Their influence extended widely in the British business community.

In Hufflepuff, Skyler had identified a promising student—second-year Joanna Derwent.

The Derwent family boasted a storied history, with Dilys Derwent, a beloved Hogwarts headmaster, leaving an indelible mark and earning high esteem in the realm of healers.

Skyler found great satisfaction in this diverse and accomplished group. Despite the majority being second and third-year students, Skyler harbored the belief that with his guidance and training, they would evolve into his trusted aides within two years, playing pivotal roles in the impending Astronomy Tower confrontation later in the academic year.

On the other side of Hogwarts, Harry mustered the courage to extend an invitation to Cho. Initially taken aback, the girl politely declined without providing any specific reasons.

"I am sorry, but I must refuse on that invitation of yours," Cho replied while smiling awkwardly at Harry.

Harry felt as if he were under a curse, bewildered by his own actions. He couldn't fathom why he had uttered something so mysterious: "Are you rejecting me because you already have a date with someone else?"

In reality, Cho had no dance partner in mind, nor did she harbor any desire to attend the dance.

Her ideal dance partner was clear in her mind, but she understood that the opportunity had slipped away. The whole situation left her feeling disheartened.

However, when Harry confronted her, it felt as if he was playing mind games. Frowning delicately, she retorted with anger, "Potter, this is my business. You have no right to interfere!"

With a fierce glare, she turned away, refusing to cast another glance at Harry.

Poor Harry watched her depart, utterly clueless about the mistake he had made and why he had managed to upset the goddess of his heart.

Returning to the Gryffindor common room in a daze, Harry discovered Ron sitting in a distant corner, wearing a gloomy expression.

Unlike the original novel's portrayal of Ron inviting Fleur Delacour, Ron's forlorn demeanor stemmed from Hermione swiftly rejecting his invitation without a second thought.

No one, not even his closest friend Harry, could discern the tumultuous emotions surging within Ron at that moment.

He felt a seething anger, fueled by a palpable jealousy that lingered beneath the surface.

Ron's demeanor often left people with misconceptions—he was deemed unintelligent, inept, straightforward, and envious.

In reality, Ron was not lacking in intelligence but rather exhibited traits of laziness, playfulness, and an intense desire for attention.

In times when Hermione's relentless nagging would wear on Harry, provoking his frustration, it was Ron who injected humor, dispelling tension with his witty remarks.

Ron had an astute understanding of characters, instantly recognizing Lockhart as a charlatan after just one lesson.

When Hermione claimed she wouldn't be drawn to a boy solely for his looks, Ron slyly whispered, "Lockhart," exposing her inclination to judge based on appearances.

He was the first to harbor suspicions about the Mirror of Erised, Tom's diary, and Crookshanks. Ron's adeptness at observing nuances and deciphering people's hearts stemmed from growing up in a family with diverse personalities.

Suppose only he could manage to rein in his emotions. In that case, he might have become a master of emotional intelligence—a classic case of social intelligence tilting heavily toward the interpersonal aspect.

(Note: Social intelligence is divided into "interpersonal" and "self," and Ron exhibits a strong inclination towards the former.)

His extraordinary powers of observation enabled Ron to see through the veiled reasons behind Hermione's rejection, even when others remained oblivious. It was like a bright mirror within him, reflecting the truth that Hermione harbored feelings for Skyler.

The question lingered in his mind—why?

Skyler, the charismatic young man basking in the glow of his family background and good looks, was encircled by a multitude of admirers, boasting three girlfriends yet seemingly unsatisfied.

To Ron, he was nothing more than a scoundrel. Despite Meredith's prolonged absence, Skyler continued his carefree existence, further solidifying his reputation as a scoundrel.

Skyler's lineage was tainted by a Death Eater father, Slytherin House's notoriety for cunning and coldness, and a brother who led a group to corner Hermione—an obvious adversary.

Contrastingly, Ron saw himself as the one who shielded Hermione from Malfoy, the companion who assisted her in challenging Snape during class, and a fellow Gryffindor.

He grappled with the unsettling thought: What did she perceive him as? A follower of the chosen one? A naive fool ignorant of the world? The unloved younger son?

Ron's fists clenched tighter and tighter, his entire body trembling from the intensity of his emotions. A subtle cruelty flashed deep in his eyes, invisible to those who did not delve into the turmoil within him.

On the opposite side, as Skyler traversed the foyer, he encountered Fleur.

She was surrounded by a gathering of young wizards hailing from three magical schools and four colleges, resembling peacocks in full display, each striving to present their most dazzling selves before the enchanting woman.

A brief, imperceptible nod passed between Skyler and Fleur, and he continued on his way.

Entering the auditorium, Skyler found his path obstructed by someone—Catalina Moreau.

She idly played with her red hair, her gaze slightly unfocused. "Mr. Malfoy, could I have a word with you?" she inquired with a hint of hesitation.

"Of course," Skyler responded, guiding her to a secluded corner.

Observing Catalina's demeanor, Skyler had a premonition about the topic she intended to broach.

Catalina was undeniably beautiful, distinct from Fleur's allure and Cho's innocence.

She exuded a pure and serene aura. Her oval-shaped face possessed a hint of coldness in its resolute composure, and the slender sword-like eyebrows projected an air of aloofness that repelled anyone attempting to draw close.

Yet, her naturally striking red hair resembled a blazing flame, igniting desires within the depths of hearts. Her large, lively eyes added a captivating quality to her overall presence.

"I heard you haven't chosen a dance partner yet. Would you consider accompanying me to the dance?" Catalina asked with a keen interest, casting an inviting gaze toward Skyler.

Despite his mental state, he found himself momentarily tempted.

Gently biting the tip of his tongue, Skyler felt a tingling sensation that helped him regain some clarity. He replied softly, "I am honored, Miss Moreau..."

"But, I've already decided who to invite," he continued, maintaining clear and honest eye contact, as it was indeed the truth.

"Oh, no problem!" Catalina smiled, "Mr. Malfoy, I just thought you might want to reconsider..." She took the initiative to draw closer, narrowing the distance between them.

The proximity allowed Skyler to distinctly catch the unique fragrance emanating from Catalina—a scent distinct from common women's perfumes.

This fragrance was pure and natural, inducing a sense of relaxation and happiness. It hinted at being a high-end product circulated among influential pure-blood families in the French wizarding world.

Catalina's lips approached his ear, and she softly whispered, "Consider it... The Moreau, the most formidable family in France, merged with the Malfoy family, the strongest in Great Britain. What kind of impact would it create in the European wizarding world, or even the global wizarding community?"

With a subtle chuckle, she gracefully turned around, leaving behind a trail of fragrance, and departed with elegant steps.

Skyler gazed at her retreating figure with an impassive expression, the light in his eyes flickering, concealing his inner thoughts.

Unnoticed, Eleanor appeared beside him at some point.

Using her slightly magnetic voice, Eleanor teased in a low tone, "You've turned down such a beautiful girl... You do have your standards, Mr. Malfoy. It's just... Are you sure you won't regret it?"

Once again wearing a confident smile, Skyler replied coolly, "There's nothing to regret..."

"The Moreau family may be the foremost in France, but so what? A family can be a pillar of support, but it can also be chains that constrain us! Wizards born with magic should shape the future they desire."

Turning his head, Skyler met Eleanor's gaze with bright eyes. "What's your take on this?"

Eleanor looked at Skyler's face intently, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Why does your response not surprise me at all?" With that, she turned around and departed.