Lucien Aurelius Potter was no longer "Potter." From the day of his official adoption, he became Lucien Aurelius Lionhardt, heir to a powerful family whose legacy stretched across continents.
Settling into the Lionhardt Mansion was like stepping into a new world. The rooms were grand, yet warm; the gardens were vast, yet inviting. Lucien explored every corner, his crimson hair catching the sunlight, and his amethyst eyes sparkling with curiosity.
Edmund and Cecilia welcomed him with open arms. Edmund, wise and gentle, often sat beside Lucien, telling him stories of the Lionhardt family while patting his head. Cecilia, doting and playful, frequently showered him with chocolates, small hugs, and affectionate pinches on the cheek. Lucien adored them both, often wrapping his tiny arms around them and whispering, "Thank you for choosing me."
A Visitor from the Past
Meanwhile, Severus Snape, who had been keeping a silent vigil over Lucien from afar, returned to the orphanage after a few days, only to find the boy gone.
"Where is he?" Snape demanded of the orphanage director, his voice unusually sharp.
"He's been adopted," the director replied. "By the Lionhardt family."
Snape's eyes softened for the first time in weeks. Relief, pride, and a twinge of regret washed over him. He had tried, many times, to adopt the boy himself, but Lucien's happiness came first. A silent promise formed in Snape's heart: that when the boy grew older, Lucien would be the sole owner of wealth and assets, a legacy Snape would ensure even if he were gone.
Days later, Dumbledore noticed a rare smile on Snape's face. "What has happened, Severus?" he asked, curious.
Snape's expression was unreadable for a moment before he finally spoke. "Lucien has been adopted by a family… a good family. He will be safe and loved."
Dumbledore nodded, pleased. He knew how much Snape had wanted to give Lucien a home, and he allowed himself a quiet smile for the boy's sake.
Daily Life at the Mansion
Life at the Lionhardt mansion settled into a pleasant routine. Lucien spent his days with Venelana and Claire, who immediately adored their tiny new brother. The two sisters, however, quickly developed a playful rivalry, constantly vying for Lucien's attention.
"Lucien! Look what I made for you!" Venelana called, holding up a toy soldier.
"No! Look at my drawing!" Claire protested, waving a crayon masterpiece.
Lucien giggled, enjoying the attention from both, and Edmund and Cecilia could only laugh quietly at the chaos.
The Lionhardt grandparents also began grooming Lucien for his role as heir. Lessons in etiquette, history, and even the subtle art of diplomacy were interspersed with gentle guidance and laughter.
Lucien's First Birthday
One year after his adoption, the family celebrated Lucien's first birthday. Balloons filled the mansion, chocolates lined the table, and laughter echoed through the halls.
After the festivities, Lucien hugged Edmund and Cecilia tightly. "Thank you… for everything," he whispered, his small arms wrapped around them.
The gesture warmed their hearts more than any celebration ever could. Later, as Lucien slept peacefully, Edmund and Cecilia spoke quietly to each other.
"Both of our granddaughters adore him," Cecilia said softly, watching Venelana and Claire as they drifted to sleep.
Edmund nodded. "Do you like him, girls?"
Both Venelana and Claire blushed scarlet, nodding shyly. "Yes, grandfather."
Edmund smiled knowingly. "We were thinking… perhaps one of you could be his fiancée. But now, we've decided… both of you will be his fiancée."
The girls' eyes sparkled with joy, their laughter echoing through the quiet mansion.
Time Skip: Age Seven
Years passed quickly. Lucien grew into a bright, strong, and striking boy, his crimson hair and amethyst eyes becoming more enchanting with every passing day. The bond with his granddaughters and adoptive parents only deepened, filled with love, laughter, and small adventures around the mansion.
But fate, cruel as it often is, could not leave happiness untouched.
On a quiet morning, Edmund and Cecilia passed away peacefully, leaving Lucien devastated. The young boy clutched his head, a sharp pain overwhelming him, and then—unable to bear the weight of his loss—he collapsed.
For the first time in his life, the cheerful, mischievous, and intelligent Lucien felt the crushing weight of emptiness. The mansion, once filled with warmth and laughter, seemed impossibly silent.
And so began the next chapter of his life—the chapter where Lucien would rise, stronger than before, with secrets, powers, and a destiny waiting to unfold.