*Heir to the Serpent Lord*

Chapter 15: The Path to Strength

The days following Saber's first therapy session were quieter, more focused on healing. Thalia Greengrass returned regularly to Slytherin Castle, guiding Saber through the slow process of recovery. Little by little, the nightmares began to loosen their grip, and though they still came, they were less overwhelming. The panic attacks, too, became more manageable, as Saber learned to ground himself with the techniques Thalia had taught him.

But as the days passed, another change was happening—one that was not as visible as his mental healing, but just as important. Saber was beginning to grow into his role, not just as Voldemort's son, but as the heir to the Pendragon and Slytherin legacies. His magic was becoming stronger, more controlled, and he felt a confidence growing inside him that had been missing for so long.

One morning, as the sun cast its golden light across the castle, Voldemort stood at the large window of the study, watching his son practice a series of spells in the courtyard below. Saber's movements were precise, his focus sharp. He had been training hard, and it showed.

Lucius Malfoy, who had been invited to observe Saber's progress, stood beside Voldemort, his expression one of quiet approval. "He's improving quickly," Lucius said, his voice filled with admiration. "I can see the strength in him now. It's becoming more visible each day."

Voldemort nodded, his eyes never leaving Saber. "He's beginning to realize his potential," he said softly, though there was deep pride in his voice. "But there is still more he needs to see. There are parts of his heritage that he has not yet fully embraced."

Lucius raised an eyebrow, curious. "What do you mean?"

Voldemort glanced at Lucius briefly before turning back to the courtyard. "The Pendragon legacy. He's learned of it in theory, but he has not yet visited the heart of that legacy—the Pendragon Palace in Rhode Island. He has not seen the dragons that are his birthright."

Lucius' eyes widened slightly. "The Pendragon Palace?" he repeated, his voice filled with wonder. "I've only heard stories about it. A place of ancient power, and the last stronghold of dragons."

Voldemort smiled faintly. "It is time for him to see it for himself."

A Decision is Made

Later that afternoon, Voldemort called for Saber. When the boy entered the study, there was a quiet determination in his eyes—a look that Voldemort had seen growing stronger with each passing day.

"You've been working hard," Voldemort said, motioning for Saber to sit. "Your magic has improved. Your strength is returning. But there is something else you must experience."

Saber tilted his head, curiosity flickering in his green eyes. "What is it?"

Voldemort stood, walking over to a large map that hung on the wall. He traced his finger over a specific point—across the ocean and over to the eastern coast of America. His finger stopped on a small, secluded area in the northern part of Rhode Island, marked by an intricately designed crest—a dragon coiled around a sword.

"This," Voldemort said, "is Pendragon Palace. It is the heart of your mother's bloodline, a place of ancient power that has stood for millennia. It is also the home of the last living dragons."

Saber's eyes widened in awe. He had read about Pendragon Palace, of course, and had learned that dragons were a part of his heritage. But to actually visit the palace—to see the dragons in person—felt like something out of a dream.

"You want me to go there?" Saber asked, his voice filled with excitement and nervousness.

Voldemort nodded. "It is time for you to see the full extent of your legacy. The dragons are your birthright, and you must understand the power they hold. You will also meet Sol Pendragon again, the current crown prince. He can show you things that I cannot."