The Lionhardt Mansion was buzzing with excitement. Candles floated gently in the air, while golden confetti swirled across the halls, magically suspended by Lucien's own enchantments.
Today was Lucien's 11th birthday, and the household had gone all out.
Grayfia, elegant as ever, had prepared a small magical tea ceremony for the early morning. Venelana and Claire, beaming, had baked Lucien's favorite treats. Gamma, Velgrynd, Sylpha, Nagini, Bayonetta, Angelina, Penelope, Yasaka, and Akeno were all present, surrounding the birthday boy with warmth and laughter.
Lucien, now 11 years old, sat at the head of the table, his four tails swishing faintly, fully controlled and hidden under his illusion.
Akeno, sitting beside him, matched his age and shared in the celebration with shy smiles and mischievous glances.
The Hogwarts Letter
Just as Lucien was about to cut the birthday cake, an owl swooped in through the open window, dropping a letter sealed with crimson wax.
Lucien and Akeno exchanged curious glances.
Opening his letter, Lucien read aloud:
"Dear Mr. Lucien Aurelius Lionhardt, you are hereby invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."
Akeno's letter read similarly.
Angelina and Penelope squealed, hugging both tightly.
"Congratulations!" Angelina said, tears of joy in her eyes.
Penelope added softly, "You're going to do great!"
Lucien smiled, feeling the warmth of everyone around him. "Thank you… I'll make everyone proud."
Severus Snape Arrives
A few days later, Lucien and Akeno were waiting for the Hogwarts representative. There was a knock at the door, and Grayfia opened to see a man in long black robes, his presence immediately commanding attention.
"Professor Severus Snape," he introduced himself in his low, precise voice, "I am here to escort Lucien Aurelius Lionhardt and Akeno Lionhardt to Hogwarts."
Grayfia, polite as ever, invited him inside for tea, but Snape shook his head. "I have other appointments. Time is of the essence."
She nodded and called Lucien and Akeno. Both greeted him with respect, and Snape's amethyst eyes narrowed slightly, lost in thought for a brief moment.
Lily's son… you have become similar to her… he mused silently.
Gringotts and Wand Selection
Snape led them to Diagon Alley, starting with Gringotts.
Lucien retrieved half of the galleons from his parents' vault, transferring the rest to the Peverell vault, taking 2,000 galleons for supplies. Akeno selected her wand first, testing several before finally finding the perfect one.
Lucien's turn took longer. The wand seemed to consider him, glowing faintly with a crimson and amethyst aura.
Finally, Ollivander handed him the wand:
Wood: Crimson Heartwood of Dragon Tree Core: Phoenix Feather and Veela Hair Length: 13.5 inches Flexibility: Slightly springy, resonating with his magical aura
"This wand… it knows you already," Ollivander murmured, eyes glimmering. "You… are very like your mother, Lily. I look forward to your rise."
Lucien nodded, taking it carefully, feeling the bond hum through his veins.
After buying all their Hogwarts supplies, Lucien and Akeno returned to the mansion.
Farewell to Snape
Before leaving, Lucien bowed slightly to Snape. "Thank you, Professor, for everything."
Snape's stern face softened, seeing the warm, familiar smile that reminded him of Lily.
"Take care of yourself, Lucien," he said quietly, nodding once. His voice carried something more than a simple farewell—pride, nostalgia, and hope.
Lucien waved as Snape departed, then turned to Akeno.
"Let's get ready for Hogwarts," he said with a determined smile, his tails hidden but swishing faintly beneath his cloak.
Akeno nodded, excitement and nervousness sparkling in her eyes.