As Snäpe pursues Mattheo, Enzo turns to Draco and Theo. “It’s just an idea, but I think Tom would know what to do.”

Draco scoffs. “Are you kidding? He hates his brother. No way he’s helping him,” he says in disbelief. “And honestly, it’s probably too late anyway.”

Before anyone can respond, a new voice speaks up. “Hate is such a strong word, Draco.”

The group turns, startled to find Tom standing in the doorway. He strides in, his hands folded behind his back. “Mattheo might be a fool, but he’s still my blood. And blood is a bond you would do well not to underestimate.”

Theo arches a brow. “Is that loyalty speaking, or just guilt, Tom?”

Tom’s cold glare settles on Theo after his deliberate jab about Tom’s history with his brother. “Call it loyalty, call it guilt… I don’t care, Theo.” His voice drops an octave. “Unlike you, I don’t waste time debating trivialities.”

“How do you plan to find him?” Draco asks skeptically.

Tom turns his head slightly. “I already know where he is.” Without waiting for a response, he strides out of the room.

The Shrieking Shäck is silent, except for the occasional creak of the floorboards. Mattheo’s breath comes shallow as he listens intently. The faint sound of footsteps reaches his ears.

“Th-Theo?” he inquires softly.

“Think again, RiddIe,” comes the chilling, monotone reply.

Mattheo freezes as Snäpe steps into the room. “Do you truly believe this is a game? That your shallow charm and reckless arrogance grant you immunity?” His wand is held steady as he advances towards Mattheo.

“I have stared into the abyss of horrors that would obIiterate the likes of you,” he continues. “You may carry the blood of a dark legacy, but you are nothing more than a naive, insolent child meddling with powers far beyond your feeble grasp.”

“Perhaps,” a smooth voice interrupts. They turn and see Tom step into the room, his piercing gaze meets Snäpe’s. “My brother may be fallible, but even your judgment has its limits, Sëverus.”