Chapter 16: Mansa Manor, Core and the Welcoming Tome, Talk, and Journal.

As Solomon and Jooby entered the Manor, they were greeted by an aura of elegance and grandeur. The Manor stood as a testament to the legacy of the Mansa family intertwined within. The corridors were adorned with exquisite tapestries depicting scenes of magical history, and the walls were lined with armor and gems.

With Jooby leading the way, they embarked on their tour of the Manor. The little elf's eyes were wide with excitement as he scurried through the hallways, taking in the luxury around him. He was keen on exploring every nook and cranny, ensuring he had a thorough understanding of the Manor's layout.

"Master Solomon, this home bes grand! Jooby loves it! But there bes a lot of repairs needed too," Jooby reported, pointing to a few cracked tiles and walls that began to deteriorate along the way.

Solomon nodded appreciatively. "I know Jooby. Later today please go around the entire manor and make sure to note those down and we'll get them fixed. This place is magnificent, and it deserves to be restored to its full glory."

As they continued their exploration, Solomon asked Jooby, "Can you find the core in the Manor?" his curiosity was piqued by the hidden magical heart of his ancient house.

With a nod and a mischievous grin, Jooby replied, "Yes, Master Solomon! I'll bes taking us right there!"

*Crack*

In an instant, they appeared in a hallway within the depths of the manor. The air was thick with ancient magic, and the hall seemed to resonate with power.

"Here Master Solomon," Jooby announced proudly, "the manor core bes in the basement".

Solomon glanced around, trying to discern any clues or magical markings that might lead them to the elusive core. The basement appeared unremarkable, but he knew that appearances could be deceiving.

"Let's explore carefully," Solomon advised, his excitement growing.

As they ventured deeper into the basement, the magical aura intensified, and Solomon felt a sense of reverence wash over him. He knew they were getting closer to the heart of the ancient house.

Guided by Jooby's instincts and Solomon's intuition, they moved through hidden passages and secret chambers, the ancient magic of the manor guiding them on their path.

Finally, they reached a chamber filled with ancient runes and shimmering symbols, all glowing softly with mesmerizing light. At the center of the room stood an ornate pedestal, emanating a powerful aura.

On the pedestal sat an orb that pulsated with soft blue light, "There it is, Master Solomon. The manor core!" Jooby exclaimed, his eyes wide with wonder.

Solomon approached the pedestal and felt a magnetic pull from the orb beckoning Solomon forward. As he touched the surface, he could feel the echoes of centuries of magic flowing through him, connecting him to the legacy of his family.

Responding to Solomon's presence a book flew out from behind the pedestal. The book read:

The Welcoming Tome - House of Mansa.

In the book, Solomon read many names of wizards and witches formally allowed to enter the house as a guest. Since Solomon was the heir now the names that were faded activated turning Green (Signifying that they could access the manor).

Some of the names in Green that caught Solomon's attention were:

Lord Charles Potter and Lady Dorea Potter née Black (James Potter's Parents)

Lord Arcturus Black (Sirius Black's Grandfather)

Lady Minerva McGonagall

Lord Willaim Bones and Lady Isabella Bones (Amelia Bones's parents)

Lord Augustus Greengrass and Lady Octavia Prewett nee Greengrass (Daphne Greengrass's Grandparents)

There were a lot of other names written in the Welcoming Tome but the majority of them were Black (signifying that the person passed away), or Red ( signifying that access was revoked or banned). After he read through a few more pages, Solomon carefully registered himself as the heir writing his name:

Solomon Nuru Eze - Heir to the House of Mansa, making the wards recognize him and acknowledging his place in the long line of Mansa descendants.

Once the registration was complete, Solomon felt a stronger connection to the Manor. It was as if the very essence of the estate recognized him as its rightful heir and a sense of belonging washed over him.

"This is incredible," Solomon whispered in awe.

Solomon then grabbed the quill in the back of the Welcoming Tome and began to cross out every name. As he started from the back of the book the names he crossed out disappeared before his eyes. Solomon crossed out all the names in Green, Red, and Black. As the majority of them were deceased and the ones still in red would not be able to make it in after he spoke with Grimsnarl. Making his way to the beginning of the book the last two names left in the tome were:

Solomon Nuru Eze (Green - symboling living)

Alyiah Nuru Eze (Grey - symbolizing a state in between living and dead)

Once that was complete, Solomon finally felt at ease in the manor. It was an extra layer of security all that was left was informing Grimsnarl to add or change any wards. Solomon wanted to have the most lethal and extreme wards.

With all the drama finished in the chamber, Solomon and Jooby made their way back upstairs to the office.

* * *

*Pop*

After entering the office, Solomon reached into his pouch and retrieved the three precious portraits of his grandparents: Kwame, Edith, and Hugo. With a heart full of emotions, he placed the portraits side by side. Pulling out the wand Solomon first found in his suitcase he cast the charm taught to him by Grimsnarl, "Magnificare Portraits".

As he did so, something extraordinary happened. The magical aura in the office intensified, the portraits returned to their original size and came to life. Simultaneously the portraits rose and attached to the bare wall in the office facing the table.

Kwame's warm smile and Edith's wise eyes met each other as they reunited. They exchanged glances filled with love and affection, even in their portrait form.

"Kwame, my Lionheart, you're finally here," Edith said, her voice soft yet full of joy.

Kwame chuckled, the pride in his voice evident, "Indeed, my dear Edith. It's good to be together once more".

Solomon watched as the couple spoke, their love and bond still strong even after all these years. It was a reunion that transcended the boundaries of life and death.

Hugo, who had been observing the touching reunion, couldn't help but join in, "Well, well, look at the two of you. Still madly in love, I see".

Edith and Kwame turned their attention to Hugo, and the three of them shared a warm chuckle. Hugo had a twinkle in his eye as he looked at his daughter and son-in-law.

"We have our moments, don't we Father?" Kwame said, his voice carrying a hint of nostalgia.

Hugo nodded a proud smile on his face, "Indeed you do. And I must say, Kwame, it is good to see you. I couldn't have asked for a better son-in-law".

The reunion continued with heartfelt conversations and laughter, as the three generations of Ravenclaw and Mansa shared stories of their lives and experiences. Solomon listened intently, cherishing every moment of this magical reunion.

With the reunions complete, they turned to look at Solomon. Solomon stood surrounded by the majestic portraits of his grandparents, Kwame, Edith, and Hugo.

Kwame, with his strong and imposing presence, was the first to speak," I see you have finally made it to the Manor Solomon".

Looking around and seeing the familiar sight of the office he had when he was alive.

He continued, "Solomon, have you been to the manor core and registered your name in the Welcoming Tome?"

"Yes, Grandfather Kwame. I had Jooby guide me there and omitted every name besides mine and Mother's," Solomon replied respectfully.

"Good," Kwame nodded approvingly, "It is important to protect the sanctity of our ancestral home and keep you safe".

As the four continued to chat, Jooby went exploring the entire manor for damages and was taking note of what needed to be done and bought for them to live there.

* * *

An hour later - Edith, with her warm and loving smile, chimed, "Solomon, my dear, you have a great responsibility ahead of you. Before you head to Hogwarts, it is vital that you train and learn as much as you can".

Solomon nodded earnestly, "I understand, Grandmother. I want to be prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead".

Hugo, with his mischievous grin and warrior's glint in his eyes, spoke up playfully, "Well, you've got three great minds to guide you, young lad! I'll be your instructor in swords and other weapons. But don't worry, we'll start with the basics".

"I'm excited to learn from you, Grandfather Hugo," Solomon replied with enthusiasm.

Hugo's grin widened, "And that's not all! I'll teach you elemental magic, and battle magic with both offense and defense. We'll make sure you're a force to be reckoned with!".

Kwame's stern expression returned, "And while you learn the ways of battle, do not forget the importance of mastering other magical arts. I shall teach you Transfiguration, Potions, and even forbidden magic".

"I'll be sure to approach with caution," Solomon assured.

Edith's gentle voice joined the conversation, "And I will teach you Charms and Light magic, as well as all the other subjects in the Hogwarts curriculum that we grew up on. Knowledge is the key to unlocking your full potential".

Solomon looked at his grandparents, feeling the weight of their expectations, but also their love and support, "I won't let you down. I promise to work hard and become the best wizard I can be".

Kwame nodded solemnly, "Remember, you have six years to prepare before Hogwarts. Make the most of this time, and never forget who you are and where you come from".

"I won't forget," Solomon said, determination shining in his eyes.

Edith's smile softened, "We believe in you, Solomon. We know you will make us proud".

Hugo puffed out his chest with pride, "That's right! You're a descendant of the House of Mansa and the House of Ravenclaw. You've got greatness in your blood!".

With renewed determination, Solomon looked at the portraits of his grandparents, feeling a deep sense of purpose and pride, "Thank you, Grandparents. I promise to honor our family's legacy and make the most of my training".

Kwame's eyes softened for a moment, and he nodded approvingly, "Good. Now go and eat dinner, we will begin your training in the morning".

As he left the office, he felt a newfound sense of ambition and excitement for the path that awaited him. Solomon couldn't help but feel a deep sense of appreciation and duty.

With a sense of drive, Solomon made his way to the dining hall and saw the food Jooby prepared. Taking his seat Solomon and Jooby ate dinner in a pleasant atmosphere. After dinner was done, Solomon requested Jooby to bring him a journal before bed. Jooby nodded his head as he popped away with the messy plates. Solomon made his way to the bathroom to freshen up.

After freshening, Solomon made his way to the bedroom and got comfortable on the bed while he waited for Jooby.

Jooby opened the door and said, "I bes bringing a journal, Master Solomon".

"Thank you, Jooby," Solomon replied grabbing the black journal and quill Jooby brought.

"That is all I need for tonight Jooby, make sure you have a good night," Solomon said as Jooby popped away.

* * *

Solomon began to write the events that took place that day: the trip to Gringotts, the vaults, the reunion with his ancestors, the tour of the Manor, and the promise to restore it to its former glory.

He was now the steward of this glorious estate, entrusted with preserving its history and continuing the legacy of the Mansa and Ravenclaw families.

He also wrote about the journey that had led him here, the challenges he had faced, and the friends he had made along the way. He knew his story was just beginning, and he wanted to record every detail of his adventure.

Solomon felt a surge of determination as the ink dried on the parchment. He had found his place in the world, not just as an heir of two noble houses, but as a child who was ready to embrace his heritage and make a difference in the wizarding world.

With the memories of the day fresh in his mind, Solomon set the quill aside and laid his head on the pillow.

As he drifted off to sleep, he knew that the road ahead would be filled with trials and tribulations, but he was ready to face them with the wisdom of his ancestors and the love of his grandparents guiding him. He had six years to prepare before his journey to Hogwarts, and he was determined to make every moment count.

With a smile on his lips and excitement in his heart, Solomon surrendered to the comforting embrace of sleep, eager to welcome the challenges and tales that awaited him on his path to becoming a powerful and wise wizard.