Stepping through the barrier between Platform 9¾ and King's Cross Station, Ezekiel spotted his parents waiting for him. His father, Thomas Malverne, stood tall and composed, dressed in elegant wizarding robes that subtly emphasized his status. Beside him, his mother, Marissa Malverne, wore a warm smile, her striking features radiating quiet pride as she caught sight of her son.
A familiar blur of motion suddenly rushed toward him—his little sister, Celeste.
"Ez!" she squealed, flinging herself at him with no hesitation.
Ezekiel caught her effortlessly, letting out a soft chuckle as he ruffled her golden locks.
"Missed me that much, huh?" he teased.
Celeste pouted. "Of course! You were gone forever!"
Marissa chuckled, placing a hand on Celeste's shoulder. "It's only been a school year, darling. But yes, we all missed you."
Thomas gave his son a firm nod. "It's good to have you back, Ezekiel. Let's go home."
With a wave to Adrian and Elena, Ezekiel followed his family toward their waiting magical carriage, the sleek, enchanted vehicle pulling away smoothly as soon as they stepped inside.
---
As they arrived at Malverne Manor, Ezekiel took a moment to appreciate the familiar grandeur of his home. The sprawling estate was bathed in the golden glow of the afternoon sun, its marble towers and lush gardens exuding a timeless elegance.
The moment they stepped inside, house-elves bustled around, taking his trunk and belongings to his room. The rich scent of his mother's cooking filled the air, signaling a feast awaiting him.
Celeste clung to his arm. "You have to tell me everything about Hogwarts! Did you win all your Quidditch matches? Did you meet any cool magical creatures? Oh! Did you bring me sweets?"
Ezekiel chuckled. "One question at a time, Celes. And yes, I brought you sweets." He reached into his pocket, pulling out a bag of Honeydukes chocolates and passing it to her.
Her eyes lit up. "You're the best!"
Thomas led them to his study, and Ezekiel knew that meant a serious conversation was coming. Once they settled into the ornate chairs, his father wasted no time.
---
"Your letters were informative," Thomas said, his keen eyes studying his son. "You've made impressive progress this year. But there are matters we must discuss—particularly regarding your status as Lord Ravenclaw."
Ezekiel straightened. "I assumed we'd discuss this during the summer."
Thomas nodded. "Indeed. Your fifteenth birthday is fast approaching, and with it, your formal inheritance of the Ravenclaw lordship. While you've already been recognized as heir, officially assuming the title comes with responsibilities."
Ezekiel remained silent, waiting for his father to continue.
"There will be expectations, alliances to strengthen, and political landscapes to navigate," Thomas said. "As Lord Ravenclaw, you will be dealing with more than just Hogwarts matters. Your influence will extend beyond Britain, especially given your connection to the French magical community."
Ezekiel knew exactly what his father was referring to—Fleur Delacour.
Thomas's gaze sharpened. "Your mention of Fleur in your letters did not go unnoticed. You said she wished to understand her connection with you?"
Ezekiel hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Yes. There's… a pull between us. She feels it too. We planned to discuss it further when I visit France."
Thomas exhaled slowly, leaning back. "Veela magic is powerful. If a bond is forming between you two, you need to be aware of the consequences."
His father's words were heavy with meaning. Ezekiel wasn't ignorant—he knew veela bonds were not to be taken lightly.
"I understand," Ezekiel said. "That's why I need to talk to her. Figure this out."
Thomas studied him for a long moment before giving a small nod. "Good. Then we will arrange your visit to France after your birthday. Until then, you have training to do."
---
That evening, the Malverne family dined together, the table adorned with a grand feast to celebrate Ezekiel's return. The warm glow of enchanted chandeliers bathed the room in golden light as conversation flowed freely.
Celeste excitedly recounted every small event that had happened at home while Ezekiel was gone. His mother, Marissa, made sure his plate was constantly full, fussing over how much he had grown.
Thomas eventually steered the conversation back to summer plans.
"You'll be training under Master Aldric for the first part of summer," he informed Ezekiel. "I want you to strengthen your control over your abilities. You've already made remarkable progress, but there's more to learn."
Ezekiel nodded. His mentor, Aldric, was a powerful wizard who had guided him for years—one of the few who could push his limits.
"Then, after your birthday, we will arrange your trip to France."
Ezekiel glanced at his mother, who gave him a knowing smile. "It's a good opportunity, Ez. You should see what this connection truly means."
Celeste, of course, was far more interested in the idea of traveling. "Can I come too? I want to visit Paris!"
Thomas chuckled. "Not this time, little one."
Celeste pouted but accepted her fate.
---
That night, as Ezekiel stood in his bedroom, gazing out at the vast Malverne estate, he couldn't help but feel the weight of everything that lay ahead.
His second year at Hogwarts had been a turning point—academically, politically, and personally. Now, he was stepping into a new phase of his life.
His inheritance, his training, and his bond with Fleur—all of it would shape his future.
And for the first time in a while, he truly felt excited for what was to come.
---