The carriages rattled along the familiar path toward Hogwarts, the Thestrals pulling them smoothly through the cool evening air. Ezekiel Cassian Malverne sat comfortably in one of the carriages alongside Alys, Adrian, and Elena, his gaze fixed on the towering silhouette of the castle as it loomed closer.
Another year at Hogwarts. Another year of challenges, expectations, and, most importantly, a chance to continue strengthening himself and those he cared about.
Alys stretched in her seat, a satisfied smirk on her lips. "Back to ruling the school, dear brother?"
Ezekiel glanced at her with mild amusement. "I was never not in control."
Adrian chuckled. "That's debatable, Ez. With all the eyes on you—your engagement, your Quidditch career, and your lordships—you'll be more in the spotlight than ever."
Elena grinned. "I think it's hilarious. I mean, how does it feel to be Hogwarts' most talked-about student?"
Ezekiel smirked. "It just means people recognize my worth."
Alys rolled her eyes. "Humble as ever, big brother."
The carriage came to a stop, and as they stepped onto the cobblestone path leading toward the Great Hall, Ezekiel took a deep breath. The castle, grand as ever, felt like a second home.
It was time to begin another year.
---
The Great Hall was alive with the chatter of students, the enchanted ceiling mirroring the darkening sky above. The long house tables were filled with familiar faces, and the anticipation for another year of magic and mischief hung in the air.
Ezekiel took his seat at the Ravenclaw table, with Adrian and Elena beside him. Across the hall, at the Slytherin table, he caught sight of Daphne Greengrass sitting with Alys and their housemates. The two girls had grown quite close, something he had expected once his sister was sorted into Slytherin the previous year.
Their gazes met briefly. Daphne's expression remained unreadable, but there was an unmistakable warmth in her eyes.
Elena nudged him. "So, how's the fiancée?" she teased.
Ezekiel gave her a flat look. "She's fine."
Adrian smirked. "Bet this year will be interesting for you two. With the contract settled, there's no more uncertainty. Just… commitment."
Ezekiel didn't reply, though he knew they were right. His engagement to Daphne had already been accepted by both parties. Now, it was just a matter of how they would navigate their growing relationship.
At the Slytherin table, Alys was already making herself at home, laughing at something Theodore Nott had said. She looked completely at ease—exactly as Ezekiel had expected.
As Dumbledore delivered his usual welcome speech, Ezekiel let his mind drift for a moment. His third year had been one of growth—both in magic and personal matters. His fourth year? It would be even more significant.
---
As the students began to leave for their respective dormitories, Daphne approached him near the entrance of the Great Hall.
"You seem more relaxed than I expected," she remarked.
Ezekiel smirked. "Should I be worried about something?"
She crossed her arms, tilting her head slightly. "You'll have to deal with the reality of our engagement more openly now. Everyone knows. There's no going back."
His gaze didn't waver. "I never intended to go back."
For a moment, there was silence between them, but then Daphne sighed, a hint of amusement in her eyes. "I suppose that's reassuring."
From behind Daphne, Alys appeared, linking arms with her. "Come on, Daphne. Let's head back before the Slytherins think you're defecting."
Daphne gave Ezekiel one last look before nodding. "See you tomorrow."
Ezekiel watched them leave, a small smirk playing on his lips.
Yes, this year was going to be very interesting.
---