Opal's eyes snap open as she stumbles, a wave of nausea hitting her hard. Apparating feels like being squeezed through a tiny tube with no air to breathe. Taking in her surroundings, she spots the familiar sign, "Platform nine and three quarters," and the bustling scarlet steam engine waiting on the tracks. "Goodbye," Cookie says before disappearing. I shoot Draco a smile, but he just frowns and walks away. Whatever. I head for the train and jump on just as it starts to pull away. Spotting an almost empty compartment, I slip inside, seeking some peace as the train rattles into motion. In the corner, a boy sits, his gaze fixed on the passing scenery outside. His dark hair falls over his forehead, and his deep green eyes hold a hint of melancholy. "Mind if I join you?" I ask, gesturing to the empty seat beside him. He nods silently, shifting to make room. "Hey, I'm Opal R-" I begin, but then I hesitate. Maybe it's better if he doesn't know my name. "Hey, I'm Adrien," he responds, a small grin softening his features. I return the smile, but suddenly, a sharp pain shoots through my arm, intensifying by the second. I wince, clutching at it tightly. "Are you okay?" he asks, his concern evident. I nod weakly, but before I can say anything, darkness descends, swallowing me whole. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- *************************************************** My father sits at a table, surrounded by several Death Eaters. A lifeless body lies sprawled across the surface. "My Lord, why have you summoned us?" a masked figure inquires from the shadows. "My daughter has enrolled in Hogwarts, and I require one of you to assume the position of Defense Against the Dark Arts instructor to keep watch over her," my father murmurs solemnly. "I volunteer, my Lord," a voice declares resolutely from the assembly. "Dinner, Nagini," Dad commands, and the snake obediently slithers towards the fallen body. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I gasp, suddenly finding Hermione Granger, Adrien, and Potter huddled around me, their faces etched with worry. "You okay?" Hermione's voice is filled with concern as she reaches out to help me up. I nod, wiping the sweat from my forehead. My heart is racing, and I can't shake the feeling of dread. "You sure?" Potter's question catches me off guard, but I appreciate his concern despite our complicated history and the fact he is my Father's enemy. I manage a weak smile and try to sit up, but my body protests, sending me back down. Adrien offers his hand. "Take it easy, Opal," he advises gently. Grateful for his support, I accept, mumbling my thanks. Hermione's brow furrows. "What happened?" she asks, her concern evident. I hesitate, not wanting to worry them unnecessarily. "Just felt a bit dizzy, I guess," I reply vaguely, hoping to brush off their concern. Potter's expression softens. "Well, if you need anything, just let us know," he says sincerely. I offer a small smile, comforted by their presence. "Thanks, guys. I appreciate it," I say, feeling a bit better knowing they're here for me.
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