A Place to Belong
The gates of Runcandel Mansion opened smoothly as Keith stepped inside—with Serafina Zabini walking beside him.
She hesitated just beyond the threshold.
The mansion was vast, ancient, and alive with quiet authority. Not oppressive—protective.
Keith noticed.
"You're safe here," he said simply.
She nodded and followed.
A Realization Long Delayed
As they walked, Keith's thoughts drifted.
So that's why…
There had never been a Blaise Zabini in this world.
Not because the line never existed—but because it had been cut short before it could begin.
Keith remembered old reports. Forgotten names.
The raid on the Potter house.
The men James and Lily had fought.
Rudolf Runcandel.
His brother.
A handful of others.
And among them—
Serafina's husband.
Keith felt no guilt.
No regret.
Only understanding.
History erased you quietly, he thought. Just like it tried to erase Helena.
Introductions
The main hall was already occupied.
Luna, Rias, Grayfia, Scathach, Albedo, Gamma, Narcissa, Bellatrix, and Nagini all turned as Keith entered.
"This," Keith said calmly, "is Serafina Zabini."
Serafina straightened, nerves flickering.
"I met her in Knockturn Alley," Keith continued. "She was being sold."
The room went still.
Bellatrix's eyes darkened instantly.
Narcissa's lips pressed thin.
Scathach's aura sharpened.
Keith added quietly, "The man who sold her… was her boyfriend."
A beat.
Then—
"…That's impressively terrible luck," Rias said bluntly.
"Unbelievable," Grayfia murmured.
Nagini stepped forward first, placing a hand gently on Serafina's shoulder.
"You're not alone anymore," she said softly.
Serafina's eyes filled—but she didn't cry.
She smiled.
For the first time without fear.
Finding Her Place
The following days passed quickly.
Serafina observed.
She listened.
She learned.
And it became obvious—very quickly—that she was sharp.
Contracts.
Logistics.
Numbers.
People.
Gamma noticed first.
"She has excellent management instincts," Gamma reported calmly. "Organizational thinking, predictive decision-making."
Nagini nodded.
"She reads people well."
Keith considered it.
Then nodded.
"Serafina," he said, "I want you to assist Nagini."
Serafina blinked.
"Me?"
Nagini smiled.
"I could use someone I trust."
Serafina bowed her head slightly.
"I won't disappoint you," she said firmly.
Keith watched her straighten—no longer a rescued woman, but one choosing to stand.
And as the mansion settled into its quiet rhythm—
Another lost soul had found a place.
Not as property.
Not as leverage.
But as family.