The Last Protection: Harriett Potter's Legacy

Chapter 10: Settling into the Shadows

A month had passed since the Black family had sought refuge in the secluded château tucked away in the heart of France. The days had blended together, marked by the peaceful rhythm of a life that, while far from the chaotic days in Britain, remained fraught with a purpose that no one dared forget. The family, once fractured and in turmoil, had drawn closer than ever before, bound by their shared vow to protect the youngest member of their line—Harriett.

The sprawling estate had quickly become their sanctuary, nestled among the lush French countryside. The grand house, with its stone walls and towering spires, stood as both a refuge and a stronghold, steeped in the history of the Blacks. Though outwardly peaceful, the château was far from idle. Its halls hummed with quiet activity—plans being forged, enchantments cast, and family bonds being re-forged in the wake of their exile.

Harriett, the precious daughter of Lily Potter and the last living Potter, had swiftly become the heart of this new life. Her laughter echoed through the rooms, filling the once-distant corridors with warmth and light. Narcissa, Andromeda, and Regulus took turns caring for her, delighting in every small gesture, from her tiny hands reaching for flowers in the garden to the joyful coos she offered when shown the wonders of her new home. Even Sirius, whose restless nature had always longed for action and adventure, found himself softer in her presence, often spending quiet moments with the infant as if he could somehow protect her from the world that had so ruthlessly scarred her family.

Despite the comforting presence of Harriett and the family’s growing sense of togetherness, none of them had forgotten why they were here. Exile was never meant to be permanent. And though they were safe for now, there was still much work to be done. Arcturus Black, patriarch of the family, had been methodical in his preparations. His sharp mind and unyielding resolve had kept the Blacks on edge, ever watchful, and never allowing the small comfort of peace to turn into complacency.

One evening, the quiet tension that had settled over the family home was broken by a summons to the grand drawing room. Arcturus had called the family together for what would be an important discussion. As the members gathered, the room seemed to hold its breath, as if aware that something significant was about to unfold.

The fire in the hearth crackled softly, the light from the flames casting long shadows on the walls. The air in the room was thick with anticipation. Arcturus, seated at the head of the table, waited for everyone to settle before speaking.

“Family,” he began, his voice low and commanding. “I’ve watched us find our footing here, in this new land, and I know we’ve made great strides. But we cannot afford to grow comfortable. It is time to consider what comes next.”

Lucius Malfoy, always calculating, sat with his fingers steepled, his eyes narrowed in thought. “What do you propose, Father Black?” he asked, his voice measured.

Arcturus’s gaze swept over the room, his eyes briefly pausing on each family member, gauging their reactions. “We may have escaped the reach of our enemies, but we cannot remain in hiding forever. The Dark Lord’s followers will grow bolder as they sense that the Blacks are out of the game. But we are not out of the fight—not by a long shot. The House of Black is still a force to be reckoned with, and it’s time we remind the wizarding world of that fact.”

The room grew quiet as his words settled over them. They knew he was right. They had retreated, not because they were weak, but because they needed time to prepare. The Blacks had always been a family that thrived in the shadows, and now it was time for them to re-enter the game—on their own terms.

Andromeda, who had been quietly listening, spoke up. “But how do we do that without risking Harriett? Without drawing attention to her?”

Regulus, who had remained silent until now, leaned forward. “We don’t have to expose ourselves. We don’t have to be loud. But we can be strategic. There are families in Britain who are disillusioned with the Dark Lord but fear making a move. If we reach out to them, carefully, they’ll listen.”