Homecoming and Summer Plans

The Hogwarts Express slowed as it approached King's Cross Station, the familiar sight of London coming into view through the windows. The atmosphere inside the train was a mixture of excitement and relief—another school year had ended, and the summer awaited.

Ezekiel stood near the compartment door, his arms crossed as he watched the platform draw closer. Alys and Daphne sat beside him, their voices filled with eager discussion about their plans for the break.

"I can't wait to be home," Alys sighed, stretching her arms. "No more exams, no more school rules—just good food and proper sleep."

"And training," Daphne reminded her with a smirk.

Alys groaned. "Right, training…"

Ezekiel chuckled at their banter before glancing at Daphne. "You'll be staying with us for part of the summer, right?"

She nodded. "Yes. Father thought it would be a good opportunity for me to get used to the Ravenclaw estate. He's also given permission for Astoria to visit a few times."

"That's good," Ezekiel said. "It'll give us some time to prepare for next year."

The train gave a final lurch as it came to a stop. The students around them began gathering their belongings, and soon the corridors were filled with movement.

As they stepped onto the platform, Ezekiel immediately spotted his parents—Thomas and Marissa Malverne—waiting near the edge of the crowd. Their composed expressions softened slightly when they saw their children.

"Welcome back," Thomas greeted, placing a hand on Ezekiel's shoulder.

Marissa pulled Alys into a gentle embrace before giving Daphne an approving nod.

"It's good to see you all," she said warmly. "Come, the carriage is waiting."

They made their way toward the exit, passing familiar faces as they went. Harry, Ron, and Hermione were a short distance away, speaking with the Weasleys. Harry caught Ezekiel's eye and gave a short nod, which Ezekiel returned.

As they stepped out of the station, a luxurious enchanted carriage awaited them, its elegant design drawing a few curious looks from passersby.

Once inside, the magic took hold, and the carriage lifted into the air, soaring smoothly toward their estate. The momentary silence gave Ezekiel a chance to relax.

"We have much to discuss when we get home," Thomas said, breaking the quiet.

Ezekiel nodded. "I know. Especially about the contract and the responsibilities that come with it."

His father's gaze sharpened slightly. "Yes. You'll need to be fully prepared before you turn sixteen. We'll talk more in detail once we settle in."

The rest of the ride passed with light conversation, mostly centered on Alys and Daphne's experiences during their first year.

As they landed near the entrance of the Malverne Estate, the familiar sight of their grand ancestral home came into view. The doors were already open, and the house-elves bowed respectfully as they stepped inside.

Marissa turned toward them with a smile. "Go freshen up and rest. Dinner will be in an hour, and after that, Thomas will go over everything with Ezekiel."

Ezekiel sighed inwardly but nodded. He knew that his responsibilities as Lord Ravenclaw were only growing—this summer would be the beginning of a new stage in his life.

---