"I only want the Prophecy Orb, Potter."
Lucius held out a hand to Harry. As if afraid Harry had not understood, he emphasized his words and repeated himself.
Harry instinctively wanted to refuse, but Hermione, seemingly frightened, took hold of his arm and squeezed it tightly.
So Harry swallowed the mocking words that had risen to his lips.
"You swear that once you get the Prophecy Orb, you'll let us leave?"
Hermione glared nervously at Lucius, her voice timid.
Standing behind his father, Draco gave Hermione several slightly puzzled looks before turning his gaze to the back of his father's head.
"I see the situation clearly, young champion—"
Lucius's eyes peered through the slit in his hood at Hermione's brown ones, his tone flat.
"We still have a great cause to accomplish in service of the Dark Lord. We have no interest in taking up permanent residence in Avalon Prison. So hand over the Prophecy Orb, and we'll leave. Then you can end your little adventure and return to Hogwarts for a good sleep."
To be honest, Harry did not know whether the Prophecy Orb tucked inside his sleeve was real or fake. But since Hermione had said so, the one in his hand had to be fake.
But from the looks of it, Lucius Malfoy did not know that. He probably believed that the most important Prophecy Orb would naturally be kept by Harry.
"How can I be sure you'll keep your word?"
Forcing down her unease, Hermione asked between breaths.
"You're Death Eaters. The most despicable and cunning Dark Wizards!"
For a moment, both sides fell silent.
"Come here, Draco."
Suddenly, Lucius Malfoy turned to look at Draco, who had been standing behind him and watching events unfold.
Hearing his father's stiff summons, Draco froze for a moment,