*Heir to the Serpent Lord*

Chapter 8: A Promise for the Future

The flickering torches in the grand hall of Slytherin Castle cast long shadows across the stone walls, the remnants of the earlier rituals still lingering in the air. Saber stood beside his father, the ancient sword of the Pendragon family now strapped to his side, the weight of his newfound legacy pressing heavily on his young shoulders. He had just claimed the power of both Slytherin and Pendragon, awakening an ancient magic within him that made him feel both stronger and more vulnerable than ever before.

Across from him stood Sol Pendragon, still as youthful and mischievous as he had been when he first stepped through the fire. Yet behind the glint of mischief in his golden eyes, there was an ancient wisdom, the weight of countless years spent fighting wars and guiding his family's legacy. The Crown Prince of the Pendragons smiled warmly at Saber, his playful nature shining through despite the seriousness of the moment.

"Well, cousin," Sol began, casually leaning against one of the marble columns, "you've taken a big step today. But, as much as I hate to be the bearer of responsibility—and trust me, I really do—it's important to remember one thing."

Saber looked up at him, the awe of everything that had happened still fresh in his mind. "What's that?" he asked, his voice quiet but eager.

Sol straightened up, his expression becoming more serious, though his smile never completely faded. "Enjoy your childhood. You're still young. Yes, you're heir to two of the most powerful magical legacies in existence, and yes, your future is filled with great power and responsibility. But for now..." He leaned closer, his eyes twinkling with amusement, "for now, you're still a kid. And kids should get to have fun. You'll have plenty of time to grow into your role, but don't rush it."

Saber blinked, surprised by Sol's words. He had expected talk of power, responsibility, and the weight of the crown. But Sol's advice was different. More... human.

"You want me to... have fun?" Saber asked, unsure if he'd heard correctly.

Sol laughed, a sound that echoed through the hall like music. "Exactly! You've got time, Saber. More than you think. When you turn 17, you'll be of age to accept the Prince Crown officially. That's when your real journey will begin, and you'll get your *animal inheritance*. But until then, live your life. Play with your friends. Learn magic. Make mistakes. Experience the world. You don't have to be king just yet."

Voldemort, standing silently beside Saber, watched the exchange with an unreadable expression. He had always been focused on power, on legacy, and on molding Saber into the wizard he needed to be. But even he could see the wisdom in Sol's words. Saber deserved to have some semblance of a childhood before the weight of his destiny fully descended upon him.

As Sol spoke, he reached into his robes and pulled out a pendant. It was simple yet beautiful—a gleaming silver dragon, intricately carved, coiled around a shining emerald gem. Sol held the pendant out to Saber, his golden eyes softening.

"Here," he said, handing the pendant to him. "This belonged to our ancestors, passed down through the Pendragon line. It's a symbol of your connection to the family, but more importantly, it's a reminder. When you wear this, remember that you're not just bound to a legacy of power—you're bound to your family. And family is everything."

Saber took the pendant with trembling hands, the silver dragon warm against his skin. He could feel the magic radiating from it, the strength of the Pendragons embedded in its very metal. He slipped it over his head, the dragon resting just above his heart, and looked up at Sol with wide eyes.

"What does it do?" Saber asked, curious about the pendant's magic.

Sol grinned. "It's more of a symbol, really. But it will protect you, in its own way. And when the time comes—when you're ready—it'll guide you to your inheritance."

Saber's fingers brushed over the dragon's intricate scales, feeling the weight of it settle against his chest. It was more than just a piece of jewelry—it was a promise, a reminder of what was to come.

Sol placed a hand on Saber's shoulder, squeezing it gently. "You've got a lot ahead of you, cousin. But don't rush to get there. Enjoy the journey. When you're 17, I'll be back, and we'll go through the ritual to accept the Prince Crown. That's when you'll inherit your full powers, including your animal inheritance. But until then, live. Learn. And most importantly, have fun."

Saber nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. He had expected the weight of responsibility to crush him, but Sol's words had given him permission to breathe, to enjoy the time he had before the full force of his destiny hit him.

Voldemort, who had remained silent throughout the conversation, finally spoke, his voice calm but firm. "You will still train, Saber. There is much you need to learn, and you must be prepared for what lies ahead. But Sol is right. You should not forget that you are still young. There will be time for the crown when you are ready."

Sol clapped his hands together, a wide grin spreading across his face. "Exactly! You've got two excellent teachers—your father, and me. And trust me, we'll make sure you're ready when the time comes. But for now..." He winked playfully, "try not to get too caught up in all the seriousness. There's a whole world of magic out there to explore."

Saber couldn't help but smile at Sol's infectious energy. Despite everything—the rituals, the power, the responsibilities—there was still room for joy, for exploration. And with Sol's pendant resting against his chest, he felt more connected to his family, and to his future, than ever before.

Sol took a step back, his golden eyes softening. "Well, it's time for me to head back. There's still a war to deal with in the Philippines, and I've got a few dragons to wrangle." He gave a mock salute to Voldemort, who nodded in acknowledgment.

Turning back to Saber, Sol's playful grin returned. "I'll be keeping an eye on you, Saber. And when the time comes for you to accept the Prince Crown, I'll be right by your side. Until then... enjoy the ride."

Saber nodded, the weight of the pendant warm against his heart. "Thank you," he whispered, feeling the bond between them grow stronger.

Sol gave him one last wink before stepping toward the fireplace. The green flames roared to life again as Sol stepped into them, his figure briefly silhouetted against the fire. "Take care, cousin!" he called, and with that, he disappeared into the flames, leaving the hall in quiet stillness.

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**Later That Night**

As the night wore on, Saber found himself lying in bed, the small snakes curling protectively around him as he held the pendant in his hand. The words Sol had spoken echoed in his mind. He was destined for greatness, but he had time. Time to grow. Time to learn. Time to be a child.

The pendant felt warm against his skin, and as he drifted off to sleep, he imagined the day when Sol would return to crown him as the Prince of Pendragon.

But for now, he was just Saber. And that was enough.