Ruby and Crookshanks wandered past several tall shelves inside the Prince Family Library when a gentle, feminine voice echoed through the room. Ruby paused, glancing around. The house elf, Charlotte, perked up at once.

"That would be Mistress Margaret," Charlotte said, quietly excited. "Come, Miss Ruby. Let me introduce you."

Guided by Charlotte, Ruby moved deeper into the library until they reached a portrait framed in gilded silver. A poised older witch with soft features and a stately pose gazed out from the canvas. Her eyes were a warm shade of hazel, and her hair was elegantly styled in a manner reminiscent of an old Muggle film star. Though lines of age graced her face, she radiated a timeless, gentle beauty.

Crookshanks meowed, tilting his head curiously at the portrait. Ruby stopped in front of it, swallowing a sudden wave of nerves.

"Miss Ruby," Charlotte said, bowing slightly to the portrait, "this is Margaret Prince, wife to Leopold Prince and—until her passing—the Mistress of the Prince Manor. Mistress Margaret," she continued, addressing the painted figure, "this young lady is Ruby Rose Potter, the Heir of Lord Severus Snape-Prince, who is the son of your daughter, Eileen."

Margaret's expression lit up at the mention of Eileen, though sadness also touched her features. "My Eileen's child... So this sweet girl is my great-granddaughter," she said with quiet wonder. Her voice had a gentle tone, carrying both dignity and warmth.

Ruby blushed at the assumption and glanced down at Crookshanks. "I'm not his biological daughter, ma'am," she explained softly. "Professor—well, Lord Severus—adopted me in a way, declared me his Heir. But he's very much like a father to me now."

Margaret's hazel eyes sparkled with understanding. "Family is more than blood, dear," she said kindly. "You are Prince by heart and by magic now. That is enough. Everything in this Manor belongs to you as much as Severus."

Ruby's eyes widened. The word family echoed in her mind, bringing a sense of belonging she had rarely felt when living with her Muggle stepfather and sister. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice catching. "I'm... honored."

Margaret's gaze softened, relief and lingering sorrow crossing her painted features. "You say Severus has returned to the Manor, Charlotte? So Eileen's son finally came home." Her tone was wistful. "We never knew what happened to Eileen after she chose to leave the Wizarding World. My husband and I waited, hoping she'd return... or at least write. But we heard nothing, and in time, our hearts grew weary."

Charlotte nodded solemnly, her large ears drooping a bit. "Yes, Mistress Margaret. Master Severus only recently discovered his Prince heritage. He's made Miss Ruby his Heir, and they have moved in."

Margaret closed her eyes for a moment as though absorbing the information. When she opened them again, there was a renewed light in her gaze. "If my dear Eileen could not return, at least we have Severus. And now you, my sweet great-granddaughter," she said to Ruby warmly. "Thank you for allowing the Prince's legacy to continue."

Unsure how to respond to such heartfelt gratitude, Ruby placed a tentative hand against the portrait frame. "I'll do my best, Mrs. Prince. I promise."

Margaret Prince smiled, her painted eyes glistening. "That is all I ask, child. We are a proud family, but we have learned the value of love above all else. May your presence bring joy and healing to these halls."

Crookshanks meowed again as if adding his agreement, and Ruby smiled at him. She glanced again at the portrait, feeling a swell of warmth in her chest.

"Thank you," she repeated softly. "I—I feel at home here already."

Margaret's portrait gave a faint nod. "Then be at home, dear Ruby. Be at home."

Hours slipped away in the Potions Lab without Severus genuinely noticing. The soft illumination of the lamps flickered as he stood before the portrait of Leopold Prince, recounting the many turns his life had taken. The old wizard in the painting listened intently, dark eyes mirroring Severus's own in a mixture of empathy and regret.

"I grew up in a Muggle environment," Severus began, his voice low, measured, yet carrying an undertone of bitterness. "When my mother, Eileen, died, my father, Tobias, blamed me for everything—especially for having magic."

Leopold's painted features darkened with sadness.

"It weighs heavily on me to learn Eileen suffered in silence. And you as well, my grandson. I wish we had known so we could have helped."

Severus inclined his head slightly. He continued, explaining how he'd discovered he was a wizard only after receiving his Hogwarts acceptance letter, which transformed his life.

"Then I met... Lily Evans," Severus said, and his usual calm demeanor softened at her name. "She was Muggle-born but exceptionally gifted. We were close friends, but—" He hesitated, a flicker of anguish in his gaze. "I was drawn into darker circles. I served as a Double-Agent during the war, at the request of Albus Dumbledore, attempting to atone. But Lily... Lily died at the hands of the Dark Lord. I lost her before I could make things right."

Leopold's eyes, though only paint, held a sympathetic gleam.

"A heavy burden to bear," he said softly. "We Princes have always striven to stand for what is just, even if our ways can be... secretive. I can see your guilt and your resolve. That you survived and continue to fight against the one who took Lily's life... that speaks to your character."

Severus drew a steadying breath, describing his position at Hogwarts as a Potions Master and how fate put Lily's son, Harry Potter, into his classroom.

"A constant reminder of a lost friendship," Severus admitted, "though ironically, he inherited Lily's eyes. His father's looks, yes, but Lily's eyes."

A thick silence settled before he continued, explaining how he encountered Ruby Rose Potter, a first-year Hufflepuff witch whose uncanny resemblance to Lily—aside from different eye colors—had stirred something paternal in him.

"She endured hardships of her own in the Muggle world as well," Severus said quietly, recalling Ruby telling him how her Muggle Stepfather and Step sister would abuse her for being different and how Harry saved her life because she nearly died during the summer before her first year. "She's bright, kind, with a raw talent for potions... ironically enough. In one short year, she's changed my perspective more than I care to admit. I took her under my guardianship and declared her my Heir so the Prince's legacy wouldn't end with me."

Leopold's stern expression relaxed into something gentler, pride mingling with relief.

"I find it remarkable," he said. "And I'm glad. If Eileen could not return, at least you—her son—have done so. And you've brought Ruby under our name. She will be family, truly."

Severus nodded. The tension in his shoulders eased as he found unexpected solace in his grandfather's portrait. When questions arose—on how best to handle his double life at Hogwarts, how to guide Ruby in the Prince lineage, how to navigate the complexities of caring for Lily's son—the portrait listened patiently, offering measured advice.

"Trust in your instincts, Severus," Leopold would say. "We Princes have long been guided by intellect, yes, but also by a desire to protect those we hold dear. You do not stand alone."

Despite the painting's motionless form, Severus could sense genuine warmth in his grandfather's words. In that dimly lit Potions Lab, he felt the familial bond he had never known—a connection to a lineage that offered pride and comfort.

When at last he straightened, feeling the tug of time spent away from Ruby, Leopold gave him one last piece of parting wisdom.

"Honor the Prince's name in your way, Grandson. Teach your Heir our traditions. Also, teach her compassion and loyalty, as you have learned. Let her know we stand behind her."

Severus inclined his head, voice subdued. "Thank you," he said, the words loaded with meaning. With that, he turned to leave, newly determined to thread his complicated past into a future that included Ruby, the Prince's legacy, and a flickering hope for redemption.

Severus followed Elijah into the corridor outside the library, the soft glow of enchanted sconces reflecting off the polished floor. They paused upon hearing a gentle, older female voice emanating from within. Elijah's ears perked in recognition, and he smiled knowingly. It had to be Margaret Prince, conversing with someone—presumably Ruby.

With measured steps, Severus inched closer to the half-open door. He could make out the outline of Ruby sitting near a plush armchair. Crookshanks lounged at her feet, tail swishing lazily. Next to Ruby, the portrait of Margaret Prince looked down upon her, eyes alight with interest and warmth. Charlotte stood nearby, listening intently but not interrupting.

"... He's my best friend and husband," Ruby said, quiet but steady. "Harry Potter. We grew up in Privet Drive—him with the Dursleys, me with my... stepfather and stepsister. We were both treated horribly. But last summer, he—he saved my life. My stepfather nearly killed me, and Harry burned the house down with accidental magic just to get me out of there."

Severus's grip on the doorframe tightened unnoticeably, old anger flaring at the cruelty Ruby had endured. He glanced at Elijah, who shared his grim look.

Crookshanks gave a tiny meow of sympathy in the library, and Ruby offered him a gentle pat before continuing. "At Hogwarts, Harry's always been there for me—protecting me when I was in danger. But I don't want to be saved all the time." Her voice wavered, her eyes reflecting the memories of her first year. "During the Forbidden Forest incident, I was helpless. That figure used the Cruciatus Curse on me, and if Harry hadn't arrived—" She paused, swallowing hard. "It was awful. I can still feel the pain sometimes in my nightmares."

Margaret Prince's painted face was etched with compassion. "My dear, you endured something no child should ever face. But you lived. You survived. That speaks of your strength, even if you do not yet see it."

Ruby nodded, taking a shaky breath. "I know. But I want more. I want to learn everything I can—physically, emotionally, mentally—to stand with Harry, not behind him. He bears so much, and he will have to face Lord Voldemort again someday, I know it." A determined light sparked in her deep blue eyes. "I won't let him face that alone. I want to be strong enough to protect him if I have to."

Margaret's expression softened with grandmotherly pride. "That is a noble desire, child. The Prince Library holds centuries of knowledge. You may study here freely. Learn our family's magic and let it guide you toward the strength you seek."

Severus felt a wave of conflicting emotions outside the door: pride in Ruby's determination, regret for her suffering, and a firm resolve to support her. He stepped back, inhaling slowly. She was not some timid girl anymore—she was determined, courageous, and possessed a heart full of fierce loyalty. He would ensure she received every resource and lesson the Prince's legacy could offer if she wished to learn.

Elijah quietly cleared his throat, pulling Severus from his thoughts. Severus nodded in acknowledgment, signaling they would not interrupt Ruby's moment with Margaret. As they turned away, Severus promised himself that he would do everything within his power to see Ruby grow into the strong witch she aspired to be—someone who would stand beside Harry Potter, not merely in the shadows of his fate, but as his equal, fortified by the magic and heritage of the House of Prince.

Elijah and Charlotte led Severus and Ruby into a spacious dining room. The large windows let in the soft twilight, painting the room with gentle purples and oranges. The table was set, with flickering candles and plates piled with a simple but delicious-looking meal. Crookshanks let out a polite meow as he hopped onto a nearby cushioned bench to watch.

Severus and Ruby met in the middle of the room as if drawn to each other's presence. Severus nodded in greeting, and Ruby offered a warm smile in return. Charlotte and Elijah retreated discreetly, content that the pair was comfortable, leaving them to converse in relative privacy before the meal began.

Recalling the conversation he'd overheard in the library, Severus placed a cautious, fatherly hand on Ruby's shoulder. The gesture was still somewhat new to him—expressing affection so openly—but he managed it with an unspoken sincerity. "I heard your talk with my...Grandmother Margaret," he said quietly, a tinge of warmth in his usually calm tone. "If you truly wish to protect those you care about—if you wish to learn—then I'll teach you all I know."

Ruby gazed up at him, her deep blue eyes wide with gratitude. A slight sheen of tears glimmered at the corners as she nodded. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice catching. "I want to be strong... strong enough to stand by Harry, not behind him."

Severus gave a single, grave nod, his black robes swishing slightly as he shifted his stance. "I understand. I'll see to it you have the knowledge, practice, and discipline you need." Then he softly added, "You won't stand alone, Ruby."

A flicker of relief brightened her features. She placed a hand over his, gently squeezing. "I appreciate it, Professor. Truly."

He cleared his throat, drawing himself upright again. "On the matter of your new heritage"—his dark eyes glided over the well-appointed dining room—"Lucius and Narcissa have experience with social customs and etiquette in Pureblood circles. While you are... by legal adoption a Pureblood in name, the same goes for your other heritages, including being wed into the Potter family. It would be wise to learn the culture. Narcissa Malfoy is skilled in such matters. I can arrange for her and Draco to visit often to instruct you in what is expected of a young Pureblood Lady."

Ruby blinked, surprised by the offer. She glanced at Crookshanks, who merely twitched his ears in quiet approval, then back at Severus. "That... that would be helpful. I'm a Gaunt, Sallow, Sweeting, Reyes, and Slytherin by blood. And a Potter by legal marriage to Harry. But, I am also a Hufflepuff after Harry gifted the title to me after winning it from Zacharias Smith—I've always wondered what it is like to be an authentic Pureblood Lady. If it'll help me, then that means I can navigate this world better, then yes, I'd like that."

Severus exhaled slowly, satisfied with her acceptance. "Good. Narcissa is excellent at teaching subtlety and grace. She'll ensure you're well-prepared for any social occasion you might face. And Draco will be here often enough—to teach you how to dance properly, hopefully in a manner that helps you grow."

A small laugh escaped Ruby's lips. "Draco... is a character. But we've gotten used to each other at Hogwarts this past year. It'll be fine." She tilted slightly, a hint of playful mischief lighting her eyes. "And I'm sure you'll appreciate not having always to correct my posture."

A wry twist of Severus's mouth betrayed a faint smile. "Just so. Now, let us not keep Elijah and Charlotte waiting too long. I believe they've prepared dinner, and I have no intention of letting it go cold."

With that, the two approached the table where steaming dishes and warm bread awaited. Crookshanks hopped down, winding around Ruby's ankles before settling under the table for a comfortable nap. As they took their seats—Severus at the head of the table, Ruby to his right—Elijah and Charlotte reappeared, presenting the meal with pride.

Ruby glanced over at Severus, her heart calm yet excited. She felt more at home than she ever had before. As she began eating, she silently promised herself she would make the most of the opportunities ahead—studying magic, learning the ways of the Pureblood world, and finding her strength to stand beside her friends. And above all, to protect Harry Potter, the young wizard who had saved her more times than she could count.

Observing Ruby's determined light, Severus felt a sense of contentment settle in him, a rare emotion he welcomed. This new chapter of their lives, with the Prince Manor as their home, held promise. And this time, he would do everything in his power to ensure that he and Ruby were truly prepared for whatever the future held.

Over a month, Prince Manor bustled with activity, a testament to the sheer volume of daily magical lessons and etiquette training. Thanks to the ancient wards surrounding the estate—wards that recognized Ruby's status as Prince Heir and permitted Draco Malfoy, her frequent visitor, to cast spells—every corner of the property became a makeshift classroom.

Severus would escort Ruby and Draco to a broad, open courtyard behind the manor each morning. Over the centuries, the Prince family had arranged convenient practice dummies, wards, and open spaces for safe spellcasting. Severus walked them through numerous charms and defensive spells with his wand.

They revisited the basics of Charms—Wingardium Leviosa, Lumos, and Accio—before diving into more intermediate charms that expanded their magical collection. Severus highlighted precision, disciplining them to perfect wand movements and proper pronunciation.

Under Severus's watchful eye, they learned various topics from Defence Against the Dark Arts, like shield charms, counter-jinxes, and more advanced defensive spells that most second or third-year students might find intimidating. He pressed them to train intensely, explaining that "Danger cares nothing for your age."

While Ruby had a strong Herbology background from her first year, Severus integrated potions knowledge. He demonstrated how certain magical plants could be refined for potions and tested Ruby's ability to identify crucial differences between nearly identical flora.

Sometimes, they assembled in the potions lab, where Ruby and Draco measured, stirred, and brewed under Severus's sharp critique. The half-finished notes from Leopold's days fueled new experimentation. Severus was uncharacteristically patient with Ruby, guiding her hand steadily when she measured tricky ingredients.

Severus was less naturally adept in Transfiguration but still well-trained enough to teach basics and intermediate transformations. Ruby, used to McGonagall's methodical approach, found Severus's method more direct yet thorough; Draco, on the other hand, appreciated his godfather's blunt instruction.

Ruby and Draco would be pleasantly exhausted—and far more knowledgeable by lunchtime.

In the afternoons, Lucius would arrive through the manor's main doors, sometimes accompanied by an entourage of owls bearing books. He took Ruby and Draco to a smaller room near the library, where fine chairs and a sturdy table awaited.

With a wave of his wand, Lucius displayed images of magical law and politics, such as magical charts illustrating the different branches of the Ministry, pureblood families' influences, and old wizarding court procedures. He taught them how alliances were forged, how to read between the lines of legal vocabulary, and what to watch for in negotiations.

Ruby found Beginner's Arithmancy intriguing, though the arithmetic and formulaic approach were initially overwhelming. Lucius patiently walked her and Draco through basic number charts, explaining how specific runic calculations influenced spells and wards.

For Beginner's Ancient Runes, Lucius unveiled old stone tablets etched with runes, guiding them to decode them piece by piece. Draco, who was used to some of this from private tutoring, helped Ruby when she struggled. She slowly learned to translate small texts, finding a certain logical beauty in the patterns.

Lucius maintained a calm, proud demeanor throughout these lessons, but Ruby sensed an underlying pride when she grasped a concept quickly or demonstrated a clever argument in mock debates.

Evenings brought a different flavor of education: Narcissa's lessons. With a wave of her elegant wand, she transformed one of the manor's drawing rooms into a graceful practice hall.

Narcissa taught Ruby to walk with poise in formal robes and carry herself as a Lady of a noble house. Ruby practiced balancing a small book on her head to encourage perfect posture. Narcissa corrected every slouch with firm but gentle guidance.

Standing before a large mirror, Narcissa demonstrated subtle makeup charms and potions-based cosmetics that enhanced Ruby's natural features. She showed her how a slight shimmer on the eyelids or the correct blush could shift people's impressions.

Ruby learned how tone, choice of words, and a well-timed smile could sway opinions. Narcissa role-played hypothetical social scenarios, instructing Ruby to deflect or gracefully confront politely.

Draco joined them for a portion of the lesson under Narcissa's watchful eye. He and Ruby practiced slow waltzes on the polished floor, and Draco sometimes teased Ruby about stepping on his feet. Mortified when she missed a step, Ruby persevered and discovered a surprising fondness for the rhythmic elegance of dance.

In between lessons, Ruby returned to the library to converse with Margaret's portrait and Leopold's portrait, who had been moved from the Potion Lab to be next to his wife. The older wizards never tired of commending her efforts and encouraging her progress.

Leopold would remark on her improved potion technique and praise how she obtained knowledge from his old notes. He relayed tales of his youth, further igniting her curiosity about the Prince's lineage.

Margaret took a more nurturing tone, smiling at Ruby's posture and manner, which had grown more poised thanks to Narcissa. She frequently teased Ruby that the magic in her eyes was as strong as her will to protect those she loved.

Their heartfelt praise felt like genuine grandparental affection—something Ruby never had. She carried their words like a gentle glow in her chest each time she left them.

Amid her intense training, Ruby maintained a steady correspondence with her circle of friends. Their responses—from Hermione, Ron, Susan, Neville, Hannah, Theodore, Blaise, Daphne, Cormac, or Draco when he was away—arrived regularly with updates on their summers. Ron described the ruckus at the Burrow in a comedic style, Hermione eagerly shared her reading list, and Susan told her of her Aunt Amelia's busy days at the Ministry.

Yet one letter remained unanswered: Harry's. He responded sporadically for the first few weeks, but the letters soon stopped altogether. Growing worried, Ruby poured out her concerns in notes to the others.

Ron wrote back, uncertain why Harry had gone silent but guessing the Dursleys were interfering.

Hermione expressed similar fears, suspecting that Harry might be deprived of his owl or locked in his room.

Neville suggested they might mount a rescue if it worsened, though he wasn't sure how.

Ruby's heart tightened each time she received no new letter from Harry. She tried not to let the dread overshadow her daily lessons, but she couldn't help replaying old memories of the Muggle world—of all the cruelty that might be inflicted on Harry. She confided in Severus once, receiving a curt but comforting promise that they would act if Harry were in danger.

One afternoon, an excited letter arrived from Ron, its edges slightly singed from the Weasley home's chaotic atmosphere. The scrawled note brought unexpected relief.

Hey, Ruby (and everyone)!

Mum and Dad say it's alright for you lot to stay at the Burrow for a weekend! Before we go back to Hogwarts! Let me know if you can make it. There's plenty of room (sort of)! —Ron

Ruby read the letter with a brightening expression. She wrote back instantly, consulting with Severus about scheduling. Soon, she forwarded the news to Hermione, Neville, Susan, Hannah, Theodore, Daphne, and Blaise—even Cormac. The notion of reuniting with them—even briefly—gave her hope, especially since she might finally see if Harry would be there or if they'd uncover some clue about his silence.

So, as the sun set on another day of rigorous training at the Prince Manor, Ruby folded Ron's letter away with a determined glint in her eyes. She might be learning to move with the grace of a pureblood lady and cast spells with the precision of a potion prodigy, but her mind still lingered on her closest friend. Harry needed her. She was sure of it. And she'd use every ounce of her newfound knowledge and connections to ensure he was safe—no matter what.