The Last Protection: Harriett Potter's Legacy

Chapter 34: A Farewell to Childhood

The sun dipped low over the rolling French countryside, casting golden hues through the tall windows of Black Manor. Inside, the sprawling estate hummed with subdued activity. It was a rare moment in the Black household—one filled not with political debates or whispered secrets, but with an air of quiet sentimentality. The time had come for Harriett and Draco to leave for their respective schools, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.

Harriett sat in the drawing room, her hands folded in her lap as she stared out at the sun-drenched fields. Her trunk lay nearby, carefully packed with her belongings, including her newly acquired wand. The memory of its selection remained vivid—pearwood with a phoenix feather core, a wandmaker’s nod to her resilience and potential. Yet, even the excitement of wielding her first wand couldn’t erase the nervous flutter in her stomach.

Draco entered the room, his usually confident stride muted. He slumped into a chair opposite Harriett, his pale features unusually thoughtful. "So," he began, breaking the silence, "you’re off to Beauxbatons, and I’m headed to Durmstrang. Quite the separation, isn’t it?"

Harriett glanced at him, offering a faint smile. "It’ll be strange, not having you around to irritate me every day."

Draco smirked, though it lacked his usual bravado. "I imagine Beauxbatons will suit you. All elegance and charm—perfect for the illustrious Harriett Black."

She rolled her eyes, but there was warmth in her tone when she replied, "And Durmstrang? What are you going to do surrounded by all those serious types?"

Draco shrugged, leaning back in his chair. "I suppose I’ll manage. It’s not as though I have much of a choice."

Their banter faded into companionable silence, each lost in their own thoughts about the future.

---

The family gathered in the grand parlor later that afternoon. The room, with its high ceilings and ornate furnishings, had witnessed countless Black family meetings over the years. Today, however, its atmosphere was different—less formal, more personal.

Orion Black stood near the hearth, his imposing figure framed by the flickering flames. He held a goblet of wine, though he hadn’t sipped it. Beside him sat Narcissa, her usual composed demeanor softened by a maternal warmth. Andromeda hovered near Harriett, her hands gently resting on her niece's shoulders.

Sirius lounged casually in a corner, though his sharp eyes missed nothing. His presence, as always, brought a sense of rebellious energy to the room.

When everyone had settled, Orion cleared his throat. The room fell silent.

"You are both embarking on significant journeys," he began, his deep voice steady. "Draco, you head to Durmstrang, a school known for its rigor and discipline. Harriett, Beauxbatons, a place of refinement and magic’s finest traditions. These institutions will challenge you, mold you, and prepare you for the world ahead."

His gaze settled on Harriett, and for a moment, the stern lines of his face softened. "Remember this, both of you: family is your foundation. No matter where you are, the strength of the Black name is with you. Carry it with honor."

Draco nodded solemnly, his usual arrogance replaced by a rare humility. Harriett, feeling the weight of her grandfather’s words, straightened her shoulders. "We won’t forget," she said softly.

Orion nodded, satisfied, and stepped back as the family began presenting their parting gifts.

Narcissa approached Harriett first, holding a small box wrapped in silver paper. "A brooch," she explained, revealing a delicate crescent moon inlaid with tiny diamonds. "To remind you of home."

Harriett accepted it with a smile. "Thank you, Aunt Narcissa. It’s beautiful."

Draco, meanwhile, handed Harriett a sleek set of quills. "For writing letters," he said, his tone light but his eyes earnest. "Don’t forget to write."

Harriett smirked. "Only if you write back."

Finally, Sirius approached, holding a small package wrapped in brown parchment. Harriett opened it to reveal a silver locket engraved with intricate runes. Inside was a tiny moving portrait of her parents, James and Lily Potter, smiling and waving.

"I thought you might want something to keep them close," Sirius said, his voice rough with emotion.

Harriett’s breath caught as she ran her fingers over the locket. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

---

The rest of the evening passed in a blur of final preparations and quiet goodbyes. Harriett found herself in her room, staring at her packed trunk. Andromeda entered, carrying a soft blue cloak.

"For your travels," she said, draping it over Harriett’s shoulders. "It’ll keep you warm."

Harriett turned to face her aunt. "Aunt Andromeda, do you think I’ll be all right? At Beauxbatons?"

Andromeda smiled gently. "You’re a Black, Harriett. You’ll thrive wherever you go. And remember, you’re not alone. You’ve got your family, no matter how far away we might seem."

Harriett nodded, taking comfort in her aunt’s words.

---

The next morning, the family gathered to see Harriett and Draco off. The carriages waited in the courtyard, ready to take them to their respective departure points.

Draco was the first to leave, his trunk loaded onto a sleek black carriage. He turned to Harriett, smirking. "Try not to embarrass the family too much," he teased.

Harriett laughed. "Right back at you, cousin."

As Draco’s carriage disappeared down the winding drive, Harriett felt a pang of sadness. But there was little time to dwell on it—her own departure was imminent.

Sirius pulled her into a tight hug. "Write to me, all right?" he said.

"I will," Harriett promised, her voice muffled against his shoulder.

Andromeda kissed her forehead. "Take care of yourself, dear."

Finally, Orion stepped forward, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Remember who you are," he said simply.

"I will, Grandfather," Harriett replied.

As her carriage pulled away, Harriett looked back at the manor, her family growing smaller in the distance. Excitement and trepidation warred within her as she thought of the journey ahead.

The countryside blurred past, and Harriett took a deep breath. For the first time, the world felt wide open, filled with possibilities. She was ready to embrace whatever came next.