THE DAILY PROPHET
Beyond the Mask: Draco Malfoy's Shocking Transformation
Exclusive Interview
By Rita Skeeter
As I lounged in the opulent loveseat, surrounded by the refined elegance of Paris's most exclusive hotel, I couldn't help but feel a thrill of anticipation. The warm summer afternoon sunlight danced through the tea room's windows, casting a golden aura on the exquisite porcelain and crystal. The soft hum of polite conversation and delicate clinking of tea cups created a soothing melody, but my focus remained fixed on the time.
I had arrived an hour early, embracing the Muggle adage: "The early worm catches the worm!" After all, a savvy journalist like myself knows that securing the scoop of a lifetime requires strategic planning.
My quarry, the enigmatic and reclusive billionaire Draco Malfoy, was scheduled to meet me here. Rumors swirled around his latest philanthropic endeavors, and I aimed to uncover the truth. The Daily Prophet's readers demand the inside story, and I always deliver.
As I glanced around the lavishly set table, enchanted to serve the most decadent treats, my eyes landed on the irresistible raspberry macaroon. To die for!
Malfoy's punctuality was legendary, but I knew better than to underestimate his cunning. Would he reveal the secrets behind his charitable facade, or would he maintain his trademark silence?
Only time would tell.
As I savored the last morsel of the most divine macaroon I'd ever had the pleasure of tasting, Mr. Malfoy made his entrance. His presence was undeniable - tall, with impeccably styled white-blond locks, and attired in the latest Muggle fashion: a sleek, dark grey three-piece suit that accentuated his piercing grey-blue eyes.
His expression was a masterclass in composure: stoic, yet serene. The look of a man unencumbered by the weight of his past transgressions, a man who had shed the shackles of his former life.
"Ms. Skeeter," he said, his deep voice smooth as silk, as he glided toward me.
Let's revisit the checkered past of Draco Lucius Malfoy, shall we? At the tender age of sixteen, he was branded like cattle, bearing the Dark Lord's mark - a symbol of allegiance to the most evil wizard of the 20th century, He Who Must Not Be Named.
As I meticulously documented in my bestselling book, 'The Dark Lord's Minions: A Life of Deceit and Betrayal,' Malfoy's youthful transgressions are well-documented:
- Tasked with killing beloved Albus Dumbledore (read all about it in my book, ' The Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore')
- Masterminding the infamous vanishing cabinet plot to infiltrate Hogwarts
- Serving as a spy alongside Theodore Nott and Blaise Zabini, collectively known as 'The Silver Trio'
However, it's lesser known that The Silver Trio fed crucial information to the Order of the Phoenix, significantly contributing to the Dark Lord's downfall. And, in a shocking twist, Malfoy's possession of the legendary Elder Wand inadvertently aided Harry James Potter, the Boy Who Lived, in his ultimate victory over Voldemort. The same wand that vanquished the Dark Lord.
Now, as I sit across from the enigmatic billionaire, I wonder: what drives this complex, reformed Death Eater.
We sipped our tea, he taking his black, without sugar or cream, and engaged in pleasant small talk about the weather and the exquisite treats before us. The tranquil atmosphere was a clever ruse, a gentle warm-up for the main event.
As Malfoy set his cup on the table, he crossed his leg over his knee and lit a cigarette, its aromatic clove and cinnamon scent wafting through the air.
With a subtle nod, he signaled our transition to business mode. My ever-faithful Quick-Quotes Quill and notebook lay at the ready.
Mister Malfoy, as always, it's an honor. Thank you for accepting this interview. After years of denying the press, what prompted this change of heart?
I grew tired of the press's relentless focus on my personal life. Sensationalized headlines and invasive reporting only served to distract from my true endeavors. (He paused, exhaling a stream of clove-scented smoke.) However, my latest ventures have reached a critical point. I no longer require the press's validation, as success speaks for itself. Instead, I wish to share my motivations, to create awareness and inspire meaningful dialogue.
Tell me, Mr. Malfoy, what drives this newfound desire for transparency?
I've invested in various initiatives promoting magical and Muggle cooperation, education, and innovation. The Malfoy name, once synonymous with darkness, will now be associated with progress. (the only sound is My Quick-Quotes Quill scribbles.)
Specifically, what projects have captured your attention?
A cutting-edge research facility, bridging the gap between magical and Muggle medicine, also, a scholarship program for underprivileged wizarding youth, fostering equality and opportunity.
Most notably, our research facility is pioneering a collaborative effort between Muggle and wizarding experts to combat cancer, a devastating disease affecting both worlds.
A noble endeavor, indeed. But what about the wizarding community's more... unique afflictions?
Ah, yes. Lycanthropy. A curse that has plagued our kind for centuries. (Mr. Malfoy vanished the bud of his cigarette, and with a quick wave of his hand the smell of clove disappeared) Our team is working tirelessly to develop a groundbreaking treatment, leveraging Muggle advancements in genetics and wizarding expertise in magical regeneration.
A cure for werewolves?
(Malfoy nodded, a dashing smirk creeping up) Not just a cure, Ms. Skeeter. A comprehensive understanding of the condition, allowing us to prevent transformations and mitigate its effects. We're on the cusp of a revolutionary breakthrough. This could change the lives of countless wizards and witches. Exactly. And it's why I'm sharing this with the world. To inspire hope, to garner support, and to demonstrate the power of unity between our worlds.
Mr. Malfoy, what drives your passion for this cause? Why lycanthropy and cancer research?
(Mr. Malfoy's expression softened, a rare glimpse of vulnerability, a secret smile on his handsome face) The cause is... personal, Ms. Skeeter, my wife, was deeply affected by Professor Remus Lupin's struggles. His bravery in the face of adversity left an indelible mark on our family
Lupin's story is well-known, yet some must say misunderstood.
The wizarding world's treatment of him was appalling. Shame, exclusion, and fear-mongering. It's a travesty, considering his intellect, his heart, and his unwavering loyalty.
And there's another reason, isn't there, Mr. Malfoy?
My father-in-law passed away from cancer, just a few years after the war. A devastating loss, one that left an unfillable void. Those experiences ignited a fire within me, Ms. Skeeter, I vowed to use my resources, my influence, to create change. To ensure that no one suffers as Remus did, or that no family endures the agony of losing a loved one to cancer.
As I scribbled notes, I realized that Draco Malfoy's transformation was more than skin-deep.
Talking about your wife, Mrs. Hermione Granger-Malfoy, she's been out of the public eye for quite some time. What inspired her transition from Ministry work to focusing on your joint philanthropic endeavors?
Hermione found her Ministry work gratifying, yet frustratingly limited by bureaucracy. She couldn't effect the change she desired, hindered by red tape and outdated thinking.
That's why we built our organization from the ground up. Our foundation allows her to tackle complex issues like lycanthropy and cancer research, unencumbered by bureaucratic constraints.
And now she works full-time on the company?
Yes, as CEO, Hermione drives our strategy, research, and development. Her intellect, passion, and unwavering commitment inspire our team. Together, we're making meaningful progress. (A warm smile spread across his face). Working alongside her has been... enlightening. I've witnessed firsthand her remarkable abilities, honed over years of fighting for what's right.
Mrs. Granger-Malfoy's involvement in your philanthropic endeavors has been quite significant. Some might say it's a clever business move, securing her place in the Malfoy fortune.
Ms. Skeeter, I assure you, Hermione's motivations are far from financial gain. Whoever knows her understands that it's never been about the money for her, but about doing what's right.
Don't diminish her character with baseless insinuations. Hermione's dedication to our foundation stems from her unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and compassion.
I merely sought to explore the—
(Malfoy interrupted, his tone firm but polite.) I think we've explored that topic sufficiently, Ms. Skeeter. Let's focus on the substance of our work, rather than baseless speculation.
The air was charged with tension as our gazes met.
Moving forward, Your research facility has made significant strides in lycanthropy treatment. Can you elaborate on the breakthroughs?
Alongside Theodore Nott, whose potion mastery and Muggle medical degree have proven invaluable, our team – including Muggle scientists – has discovered a crucial connection between lycanthropy and rabies.
Rabies, a Muggle disease transmitted through infected animal saliva, shares surprising similarities with lycanthropy's transformative mechanisms.
A vaccine could be life-saving. Imagine the possibilities – preventing werewolf attacks, protecting innocent lives...
(I raised an eyebrow, this is juicy information)
Isn't this collaboration with Muggles risky? Are you compromising the International Statute of Wizarding Secrecy?
Actually, Ms. Skeeter, you should have done more research. Zabini and Zabini, the esteemed law firm founded by Blaise Zabini and Pansy Zabini née Parkinson, crafted a contract between the DMLE, the Wizengamot, Malfoy Industries, and Nott Enterprises.
This agreement allows us to hire Muggles under strict, private clauses between employee and employer. Rest assured, our actions are entirely lawful. We're committed to linking our names to light and progress, not darkness.
Our work will benefit both worlds. I'm not just rebuilding my family's legacy, Ms. Skeeter. I'm redefining it. Malfoy Industries will be synonymous with innovation, compassion, and unity.
I think that's all the questions I have for now, Mr. Malfoy
(Draco Malfoy nodded, his expression thoughtful.) I appreciate your willingness to listen, Ms. Skeeter. It's time to set the record straight. We're proud of our work. We hope this interview will help dispel misconceptions and showcase the positive change we're driving.
This is just the beginning.
Malfoy Industries and Nott Enterprises will continue pushing boundaries, forging a brighter future for all.
Our conversation concluded, I gathered my belongings pondering the unexpected turn of events.
The question now: will the wizarding world acknowledge Draco Malfoy's transformation?
As I stepped out of the tea room, the lobby of this lavish Parisian hotel warm glow enveloped me once more. Laughter and gentle chatter filled the air, and I couldn't help but glance back.
That's when I saw them.
Draco Malfoy, the former Slytherin prince, was wrapped in a romantic embrace with his wife, Hermione Granger-Malfoy. Her wild curls cascaded down his shoulder, and his eyes shone with a warmth I'd never witnessed before. He gently pulled her closer, their lips brushing in a tender kiss.
The intimacy of the moment was palpable, and I felt a pang of surprise. It's safe to say, dear readers, Draco Lucius Malfoy is a changed man. But as I watched, a fleeting glimpse of something else caught my eye – a hint of vulnerability, a shadow of the scars that still lingered beneath his polished surface.
Will this reformed Draco Malfoy withstand the tests of time and scrutiny? Or will the shadows of his past eventually reclaim him? Only time will tell.
As I slipped into the Parisian night, I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this story.... But don't worry, dear readers – this reporter's instincts are always on high alert.
I'll continue to dig, to probe, and to uncover the truth behind the façade. Rest assured, I'll follow this story wherever it leads, bringing you the unvarnished truth, no matter how shocking or intriguing it may be. After all, that's what Rita Skeeter does best.
Rita Skeeter's Exclusive Interview Beyond the Mask: Draco Malfoy's Shocking Transformation
To be continued...
Their collaborative research with Theodore Nott has yielded significant advancements in lycanthropy treatment. For more information, see:
• "Nott, T., Malfoy, D., & Granger-Malfoy, H. (2024). Novel Vaccine Development for Lycanthropy: A Combined Magical-Muggle Approach. Potions Today Journal, 12(3), 23-30."
• "Malfoy, D., Nott, T., & Granger-Malfoy, H. (2022). Lycanthropy and Rabies: Uncovering the Molecular Connections. Magical Maladies, 38(95605), 12-18."
The Malfoy-Granger-Nott team has also made substantial strides in cancer research. For further insights, refer to:
• "Granger-Malfoy, H., Nott, T., & Malfoy, D. (2023). Innovative Applications of Magic in Oncology: A Review. New England Journal of Medicine, 371(14), 1339-1347."