Why protect the Malfoys?

[hyogoetophile]

No: HPFGUIDX 137188

The Malfoys are in a position where they could destabilize 
Voldemort's alliances, if not destroy some, many, or all of them. 
When Voldemort returns in GoF it is said that those in the DE circle 
looked as if they loathed to return him, but didn't dare not. In 
CoS, he focuses on Muggle-borns, but then ignores "Salazar 
Slytherin's noble work" and focuses on Harry. I wonder how many 
pureblood extremists would agree with his actions; or how many would 
like the fact that their leader is a half-blood (if that is indeed 
true). There is plenty of evidence in the HP books and from the 
stereotypes surrounding a relationship between an evil mastermind 
and his minions to support the idea that one good kick in the DE 
structure could bring the whole thing down.

Lucius, who we saw furthering his own agenda in CoS, is probably 
using his ample free-time at Azkaban to consider his options. And he 
is certainly a power unto himself. He would be able to do a 
switcheroo, and bring his family with him.

Narcissa defied Lord Voldemort to offer her son some protection. She 
will apparently do anything to keep her son (and/or husband?) safe. 
If Lucius or Draco jump ship, you can be sure she will also.

Draco has also shown himself to be very capable, in the right 
situation. He only succeeded in getting DEs into Hogwarts because he 
was allowed to, but he did come up with the ingenious plan.

So each member of the Malfoy, a name which I would wager carries a 
lot of weight among Slytherins and especially pureblood extremists, 
family is probably going to be taking some heat from Voldemort. And 
the Malfoy family, even in part, is brave and intelligent enough to 
break apart from Voldemort's side.

I think Draco was offered safety because yes, Dumbledore (although 
that was not Dumbledore on the tower) is that kind of person. But 
also, because the Malfoy family could be very instrumental in 
forming a third side, that, even if it doesn't lend support to 
Dumbledore/Harry & Friends/Snape/The Order, might at least draw some 
away from Voldemort.

Andrew.