The Wizengamot session regarding the placement of Dementors at Hogwarts had finally reached its peak. The hall was filled with discussions, arguments, and tension as various members debated the safety vs. risk of allowing such creatures near students.
Ezekiel Malverne, now Lord Ravenclaw and heir to House Malverne, sat in his seat, calmly observing the proceedings.
"The Dementors are necessary for Hogwarts' protection!" a Ministry official argued. "With Sirius Black on the loose, we cannot take any chances!"
Ezekiel leaned forward, his sharp blue eyes piercing through the speaker.
"We are talking about creatures that do not distinguish between friend and foe," he stated, his voice measured but firm. "They feed on fear, happiness, and souls. If one of them were to attack a student, who would be responsible?"
Some of the older Lords nodded at his words, while others remained indifferent.
Amelia Bones, Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, interjected. "Lord Ravenclaw has a valid point. Dementors cannot be controlled like Aurors. If we allow them free rein, there is no guarantee they will not harm students."
After hours of deliberation, the final decision was made—Dementors would not be stationed inside Hogwarts but would only guard the perimeter of the castle.
It was a partial victory, but Ezekiel knew that their presence alone could cause trouble.
---
With Wizengamot duties settled, Ezekiel spent his last few days of summer with Daphne, Fleur, and his family at Ravenclaw Manor.
One person, however, was particularly unhappy about his return to Hogwarts—Celes.
She clung to his arm, her silver-blue eyes filled with displeasure.
"You're leaving again."
Ezekiel sighed fondly, ruffling her hair. "I always come back, don't I?"
"It's not the same!" she protested. "Ravenclaw Manor feels empty without you."
Daphne, sitting beside them, smiled. "You can always visit, you know. I'll make sure you have your favorite desserts ready."
Celes crossed her arms. "Fine. But you better send letters every week!"
Ezekiel smirked. "I will. That's a promise."
---
The day of departure arrived, and Ezekiel, along with Daphne, Alys, and Astoria, made their way to King's Cross Station.
This was a significant year—Ezekiel and his friends were beginning their fifth year, their O.W.L. year. Meanwhile, Daphne and Alys were entering their third year, and Astoria was finally starting her first year at Hogwarts.
As they boarded the Hogwarts Express, they found their usual compartment. Adrian Selwyn and Elena soon joined them, settling into their seats.
Adrian smirked, crossing his arms. "So, Lord Quidditch Star, how does it feel to be the youngest professional Chaser in history?"
Ezekiel rolled his eyes. "You lot aren't going to let this go, are you?"
Elena laughed. "Absolutely not. You're the youngest Lord, the heir of two noble houses, a professional Quidditch player, and now, you have to deal with O.W.L.s." She grinned. "How does it feel to suffer like the rest of us?"
Daphne leaned into Ezekiel, smirking. "At least he has me to take care of him."
Adrian chuckled. "And here I thought marriage would make you weaker. Instead, you're still outshining everyone."
As they talked, students occasionally peeked into their compartment, hoping to catch a glimpse of the famous Lord Ravenclaw and his group.
Ezekiel ignored them, his attention on his friends, wife, and the challenges ahead.
With Hogwarts welcoming them back, and Sirius Black still at large, this year was bound to be interesting.
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