The Day of Returning to School

The Hogwarts Express sped through the thin mist. Outside the carriage windows stretched the rolling Scottish wilderness, while inside, it was warm as spring.

The House of Malfoy's private compartment was located in the most secluded carriage at the rear of the train. A discreet silver serpent crest was engraved on its door, shutting out most of the noise—as well as most curious gazes.

Inside the compartment, Daphne Greengrass sat in the seat of honor, her pale golden hair glowing softly beneath the warm yellow wall lamps. With Skylar gone, she would temporarily take over as leader of the Sleeping Dragon Society this term. At that moment, she carried herself with the commanding presence of a hostess as she discussed the plans for the coming term with Cho Chang, Morrie, Luna, Astoria, and Susan gathered around her.

Leaning against the window, Cho Chang drew her gaze back from the scenery outside. Her black hair fell loose over her shoulders, and there was a faint sharpness beneath the gentleness in her eyes. "Another new year. Quite a few of the Sleeping Dragon Society's older members have graduated. This year, we'll have to find ways to bring fresh blood in from the new students ourselves."

Morrie set down her cup and said calmly, "According to what Skylar said before, Dumbledore has already noticed the Sleeping Dragon Society. Now that Skylar isn't here, we need to be twice as careful in our actions and avoid drawing the professors' interference."

Daphne nodded in agreement. Her sharp gaze swept across the group as she said softly, "Once we adjourn, help me pass the word along: this year's recruitment of new students must be more discreet than ever before. Only privately invite young wizards whose family backgrounds and beliefs truly align with the Sleeping Dragon Society.