June 2nd arrived with a sense of inevitability. The morning sun bathed Malverne Manor in golden light, and the entire estate buzzed with activity. Today wasn't just Ezekiel's fifteenth birthday—it was the day he would officially inherit the title of Lord Ravenclaw.
Standing before his mirror, dressed in a tailored midnight-blue robe embroidered with silver accents, Ezekiel took a deep breath. Today marked the beginning of his true responsibilities—he was no longer just the heir; he was the lord of an ancient legacy.
A knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts.
"Enter."
The door opened, revealing Alys, dressed elegantly in a deep-blue gown. She looked at him, arms crossed, eyes filled with a mixture of pride and mischief.
"Well, well. Lord Ravenclaw," she teased, smirking. "You look the part."
Ezekiel rolled his eyes. "And you look like you're enjoying this too much."
"Of course," she said, stepping closer. "But in all seriousness, Ez… I'm proud of you."
Ezekiel met her gaze, appreciating the sincerity. Alys might tease him, but she was always his greatest supporter.
"Thanks, Alys," he said softly.
"Now come on," she said, linking her arm with his. "Everyone's waiting."
---
The ancestral hall of Malverne Manor was filled with respected figures—lords, ladies, and prominent families—all gathered to witness the official transfer of lordship. Among them were Lord Greengrass, his father Thomas, and other key political allies.
At the center of the hall stood an ancient stone pedestal, atop which rested the Ravenclaw Signet Ring—a relic of power passed down through the generations.
Thomas stood beside it, his expression unreadable.
"Come forward, Ezekiel Cassian Malverne," his father's voice rang through the hall, carrying the weight of tradition.
Ezekiel stepped forward, his footsteps echoing in the silent chamber.
"Today, you inherit not just a title, but a legacy," Thomas continued. "You bear the wisdom of those who came before you and the responsibility to guide those who will follow. Do you accept this duty?"
Ezekiel met his father's gaze. "I do."
Thomas nodded and gestured toward the pedestal. "Then place your hand upon the stone and accept your birthright."
Ezekiel pressed his palm against the cold surface, and instantly, a surge of energy flooded his body. The air crackled with raw magic as the Ravenclaw Signet Ring rose from the pedestal, hovering before him.
The ancient enchantments recognized him, and the ring slipped onto his finger, binding itself to him.
A rush of knowledge and power filled his mind. It wasn't just symbolic—he could feel the connection to the Ravenclaw legacy, an awareness of the ancient magic sealed within the family's bloodline.
The moment passed, and the magic settled.
"Rise, Lord Ravenclaw," Thomas declared.
Applause filled the hall, but Ezekiel barely registered it. He clenched his hand, feeling the weight of his new title—not just in responsibility, but in power.
---
After the ceremony, Thomas led Ezekiel to his study, away from the lingering guests.
"You handled yourself well," Thomas said, pouring himself a drink. "But this is only the beginning."
Ezekiel sat across from him. "I know."
Thomas studied him for a moment before nodding. "I received word from Lord Delacour. He expects you in France next week."
Ezekiel leaned back slightly. "So, it's confirmed."
"It is," Thomas said. "You will meet Lord Delacour formally, and you will also see Fleur again."
Ezekiel remained silent, fingers brushing against the signet ring. His connection with Fleur was something he still didn't fully understand, but he knew he had to address it.
His father set down his glass. "One more thing, Ezekiel. Now that you are Lord Ravenclaw, expect more eyes on you. Both allies and enemies will test you. Stay vigilant."
Ezekiel nodded. "I will."
---
That evening, the Malvernes held a private dinner to celebrate both Ezekiel's birthday and his ascension.
Marissa Malverne, his mother, had personally arranged the feast, ensuring all of Ezekiel's favorites were present.
Celes, his youngest sister, sat beside him, swinging her legs happily. "Does this mean I have to call you 'Lord Brother' now?" she asked innocently.
Ezekiel chuckled. "Only if you want to, Celes."
"Then I won't!" she giggled, stuffing a piece of cake into her mouth.
Alys smirked. "I think 'Lord Brother' has a nice ring to it."
Ezekiel sighed. "I regret ever letting you hear that title."
Laughter filled the room, the warmth of family easing the pressure of the day.
For now, he allowed himself to enjoy the moment. But soon, he would depart for France, and what awaited him there would shape his future.
---