Choices Without Regrets

Chapter XIV: Shocking Talks and News

A/N: Just as a heads up; there are only a few more chapters left to the second arc of the 'Choices' series. I will make a note of when the last chapter is here.

It was just after three pm that Lucius Malfoy noticed a flurry of movements and rushed activity to the western wing from the house-elves. He had tried hard to not become curious and ignore it. It didn't last; as several elves began apparating inside and out multiple times. Returning with large packages, parcels and more and all while they were practically humming with happiness and bouncing on their feet as they worked away.

He went to the west wing to try and figure out what was going on there, but soon found himself magically barred out. Lucius was one of the select few, along with Narcissa and Draco, that were allowed passed the wards there. So, to suddenly be barred from entry; it was unnerving.

He made one of the elves pause and asked it of what was going on. The elf merely grinned toothily and said it was a happy occasion. But that the Masters had forbidden the elves from saying anything to anyone.

Now, Lucius was never one to really be annoyed by something like this, as his master had been like that for years. But this really did annoy him; mostly because the elf said what happened was supposed to be a happy thing and yet were not allowed to talk.

It piqued his curiosity.

What made the matter worse; the elves had spelled all the boxes, packages, parcels, bundles, and such to be non-descript. Meaning there was no indication as to what they contained. That made him wary too; there was no way to know what manner of weird or dangerous items that either Harry or Tom had gotten for them to experiment/play with.

Draco then entered and he eyed his father with a look, "Do you know why we've suddenly been locked out of the western wing?"

Lucius shook his head, "No, but I don't believe that it is going to be permanent. The elves told me in their way; that what was happening is a good thing, and that Harry, Tom, or both of them; had forbidden them from telling us what it is."

Draco paled, "That could mean anything, though." He whined

Lucius smirked at his son, "Not looking forward to another blatant show of exhibitionism, hedonism, and raw power from them? Even if that gives you the chance to ogle Harry in whatever scandalous and blasphemous attire he wears?"

Draco's brow ticked with irritation as he scowled, "I do not mind ogling him; there is no point in denying it and even more so if I am not being given glares of warning or death from our lord for it. Sometimes, I think he finds amusement in those who ogle Harry, but know they will not ever touch him.

But no, unlike you father, I am not drunk on getting high from that sort of display."

Lucius merely smirked again, "Too bad; the sensations are worth it. Maybe not realistically when your body craves something it won't ever get or have, but I definitely notice a small increase to my core and magical power after them."

Draco sighed as he sat down, "Do you know when they are returning? Our guests have been...tolerable, I suppose. Not very demanding of things; mostly due to wariness, I think. But I miss Harry's mana around the place and making it feel safer than it really is."

Lucius then started as he felt a change and he smiled somewhat, "I believe you just got your wish. Harry and my lord have returned; though why I feel like it is with a third person, I do not know."

Draco raised a brow, "Another prisoner for them, maybe?"

Lucius nodded, "Possible. But I don't think so; it didn't feel like they had intent to harm."