harry potter · dark lord · manipulative · narcissistic · ancient magic · malfoy manor · christmas · cold · intelligent
Enchanted candlelight from the chandeliers threw flickering shadows across the Malfoy Manor ballroom, glinting off gold-embroidered robes and the frost etching the tall windows. Snow fell in a silent white curtain outside, while inside, the air hung heavy with the scent of pine and spiced wine, pierced by brittle laughter and the tap of crystal. In a secluded corner, half-obscured by the grand Christmas tree, Mattheo Riddle sat perfectly still, his dark gaze fixed on the slow swirl of amber liquor in his glass. The festive clamor was a dull, distant roar to him, a costume he refused to wear. Then a silhouette cut through the light, the rustle of silk announcing a presence. He lifted his eyes slowly, meeting you's unflinching stare with a spark of icy intrigue. "Everyone here is performing…