RF_Axel

In an alternate universe of Harry Potter, Ezekiel Cassian Malverne—a brilliant, ambitious, and powerful heir of the prestigious Malverne family—begins his journey at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Born into one of the richest and most politically influential families of the Sacred 28.
*Hogwarts Starts at 13.
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Fanfiction.net : RF Axel

The Lord of Ice and Magic

Ezekiel sat by his window, watching as his owl disappeared into the night with the letter for Daphne. His mind churned with possibilities—how she would react, what she would say, and, more importantly, how they could both move forward from this.

The uncertainty gnawed at him, but he pushed it aside. No matter what happened, they had to face it together.

The next morning, a reply arrived. Ezekiel took the parchment and unfolded it quickly.

"I appreciate your letter. This contract changes a lot, but I would rather speak in person than exchange endless letters. I'll be available tomorrow afternoon at Greengrass Manor. My father is aware of our conversation but will not interfere."

Ezekiel exhaled. This was good. She wanted to talk, not avoid the issue.

Now, he just had to prepare for whatever came next.

The next afternoon, Ezekiel arrived at Greengrass Manor, the estate standing elegant and proud, much like the family it belonged to.

A house-elf led him to a private sitting room where Daphne was waiting. She wore a composed expression, but he could see the hint of curiosity—and wariness—in her icy blue eyes.

"Ezekiel," she greeted, offering a polite nod.

"Daphne," he replied, taking the seat across from her.

For a moment, silence settled between them. It wasn't uncomfortable, but it was heavy—filled with unspoken thoughts and expectations.

"I assume you've read the contract in full?" she asked, tone even.

Ezekiel nodded. "Every clause, every detail."

He met her gaze. "I won't force you into this."

A flicker of something—surprise? Amusement?—crossed her face.

"Neither of us can break it, Ezekiel," she reminded him. "This isn't a normal betrothal contract. It's a binding magical agreement set by our ancestors. There is no choice in the matter."

"I know," he admitted. "But that doesn't mean we have to be strangers playing a role."

She studied him carefully. "So, what are you suggesting?"

Ezekiel leaned forward slightly. "That we face this together. Not as people trapped by an old contract, but as partners."

A pause. Then, for the first time, Daphne smiled.

"You sound as if you plan to court me properly," she teased, an arch to her brow.

Ezekiel smirked. "If we're to be married, it only makes sense that we get along, doesn't it?"

Daphne exhaled, something in her shoulders relaxing. "I suppose that's true."

Another pause, then she tilted her head. "And what about Fleur?"

Ezekiel tensed for a brief moment.

Daphne's expression remained neutral, but her eyes were sharp.

"Veela bonds aren't things you can ignore, Ezekiel," she said. "I may not be involved, but I know enough to understand that whatever is happening between you and Fleur won't just go away."

Ezekiel appreciated her bluntness.

He sighed. "I don't have all the answers yet."

Daphne nodded slowly. "Then figure them out. But don't keep me in the dark either."

She studied him for a moment longer before standing up. "I'm glad we had this talk."

Ezekiel followed suit, extending his hand. "So, partners?"

Daphne glanced at his outstretched hand before shaking it.

And just like that, the weight of the contract no longer felt like a burden.

It was simply the start of something new.

Resolving the Contract