Chapter 26 - HSWF Pt.4

In the privacy of her room, Serena sat on the plush carpeted floor, her back against the foot of her grand four-poster bed. Bowe, her petite Bowtruckle companion, was attempting to mimic her cross-legged position, though its twiggy limbs made the task somewhat comical. A small smile lifted the corners of Serena's lips as she watched the creature struggle, a momentary distraction from the task at hand.

Closing her eyes, she focused on the task of rebuilding her Occlumency wards. It was a mental exercise she'd done countless times, a routine from her past life as Severus Snape. Yet, this time, the task seemed more challenging. The recent emotional breakdown she'd experienced in front of her grandfather was still fresh in her mind. It was embarrassing to have exposed herself in such a vulnerable state, and she was determined to prevent the recurrence of such an event.

As an Omega, she knew her emotions ran deeper than most, and merging with Serena's personality had only amplified her emotional sensitivity. But she was not going to let that be an excuse. She needed control, and Occlumency was her tool to achieve it.

A soft laughter echoed in her memory. It was her grandmother, Gwendoline. Serena remembered how she had laughed when she heard about her breakdown, not in a mean way, but with an understanding that was comforting. Gwendoline had told her that it was only human to breakdown once in a while, an assurance that had eased Serena's embarrassment a little.

Then, there was the memory of her grandmother talking about her grandfather, Wilfred. Gwendoline had mused how it was good for the stoic man to have someone new to comfort. She confessed that she would have loved to see her husband awkwardly trying to comfort Serena, a sight that would have surely brought her great amusement.

Serena continued to focus, her mind fully immersed in the creation of her Occlumency wards. As she visualized the walls of her mental fortress, they took the form of a magnificent golden willow tree. The image was vivid and majestic, radiating a magical glow that seemed to permeate the room.

The golden willow tree held a special significance for Serena. It was based on an actual willow tree that stood in a small forest park near an open lake in Cokesworth, a place where she and Lily had spent countless hours practicing their magic in secret before their Hogwarts years. As Severus, this very image had served as his Occlumency wards, his memories and knowledge hidden within the leaves and branches of the tree.

The secret of the golden willow tree lay in its transformation. If an intruder attempted to breach Serena's mind, the tree would shift its appearance, turning into an old, greenish, plain-looking willow tree. This clever ruse would deceive anyone searching her mind, as they would only see the fabricated memories she had created to protect herself. It was a defense mechanism she had learned from Severus, a way to safeguard her secrets and maintain her privacy.

As Serena delved deeper into her visualization, she could almost feel the energy of the golden willow tree enveloping her. It was whispering ancient knowledge and guarding her secrets. The golden glow intensified, casting a warm, comforting light throughout the room.

In her mind's eye, Serena gently touched the tree's bark, feeling a surge of familiarity and strength. She knew that within the branches and leaves of the golden willow tree, her memories were stored, etched into the very essence of the tree itself. It was a powerful connection, a bond between her past life as Severus Snape and her present existence as Serena Snape.

As she completed the formation of her Occlumency wards, Serena marveled at the image before her. The golden willow tree stood tall and resolute, a symbol of protection and resilience. It was a reminder of her strength, her ability to adapt and survive in the face of adversity. 

Serena anchored the image of the golden willow tree firmly in her mind. She knew that whenever she needed to shield her thoughts and emotions, she could retreat within the sanctuary of this magical tree. It would guard her secrets, shield her from unwanted intrusion, and provide her with the peace and stability she sought.

As the golden glow of the willow tree slowly faded, Serena opened her eyes, feeling a renewed sense of calm and control. Bowe, still perched beside her, chirped softly, as if sensing the change in her demeanor. Serena smiled and reached out to stroke the tiny creature gently.

With her Occlumency wards firmly in place, Serena rose to her feet, feeling a renewed sense of purpose and control. She stretched her arms above her head, feeling the tension in her muscles ease. Bowe, still perched on the floor beside her, looked up at her with its tiny eyes, as if sensing her mood.

Serena smiled down at Bowe, feeling a surge of affection for the tiny creature. She reached down to stroke its twiggy limbs, feeling the softness of its greenish-brown skin.

After a moment, Serena turned her attention back to the task at hand. She needed to get ready to go out. Yesterday, her grandparents had officially and carefully asked her if she wanted to be the heir of the Prince family. It was a moment that had caught her off guard, for she never expected them to ask for her consent or a choice in the matter, and she had choked up a bit at the realization that she finally had a family that wanted her and respected her choices. It was something she had craved, both as Serena and as Severus.

When she had accepted, her grandparents had sighed in relief, and her grandfather had announced that they would be going to Gringotts bank today to sign registration papers for her heirloom. They would also send a copy to the Ministry of Magic, registering her last name as Prince.

Serena's heart raced with anticipation. She knew that as the heir of the Prince family, she would be given access to the family's vast wealth and resources, something that she had never dreamed possible. Though she did have the greed for it as Severus in her past life, wanting to throw away her muggle last name, it was nothing compared to gaining her current grandparents. 

Serena walked towards the large wardrobe in her room, pulling open the doors to reveal a dizzying array of clothes and accessories. She sifted through the items, selecting a simple yet elegant black dress that hugged her petite frame. She paired it with a pair of black boots and a thin golden necklace that had belonged to her grandmother.

As she dressed, Serena's mind raced with thoughts of her new life as the heir to the Prince family. She wondered what challenges lay ahead, what secrets she would discover, and what kind of family she would be leading. It was an exciting prospect, and Serena felt a sense of pride and responsibility settle over her.

With one last glance in the mirror, Serena headed out of her room, Bowe trailing behind her.

Serena quietly descended the grand staircase that led to the mansion's living area, brushing a loose strand of her long black hair out of her eyes. As she approached, she could see her grandfather standing near the ornate fireplace. His white sleek hair gleamed under the mansion's chandeliers, and his piercing blue eyes reflected the dancing flames. He turned towards her, his authoritative aura filling the room.

"Good morning, Serena," he greeted, his voice rich and deep. His eyes scanned her from head-to-toe, and a hint of approval flickered in his gaze. "You look... well-prepared," he commented, clearly struggling to find the right words. A rare show of discomfort that brought a hint of amusement to Serena's lips.

"Thank you, grandfather," she responded, her voice soft yet confident. She could not help but find his effort endearing.

Wilfred cleared his throat, quickly recovering his composure. "Now, let's go over how to use the Floo Network. It's a tad uncomfortable but effective nonetheless."

He explained in detail how to use the Floo powder, the importance of clear enunciation, and what to expect on the other side.

After his explanation, Wilfred handed her a small pouch of the emerald green powder. "You must throw it into the flame and clearly state your destination. Remember, Diagon Alley."

Serena nodded, taking the pouch from him. She took a deep breath and, with a swift movement, tossed the powder into the fire.

The flames turned a bright emerald green, and she stepped closer, feeling the heat on her face. "Diagon Alley," she stated clearly, stepping into the flames.

The world whirled around her as she was whisked away by the Floo Network. A moment later, she stumbled out of a fireplace and into the bustling scene of Diagon Alley, dusting off the ash from her clothes.

She stepped away from the fireplace, waiting for her grandfather. The surroundings were familiar yet so different from how she remembered them as Severus. She was here not as a lonely boy, but as Serena Snape, soon-to-be Serena Prince, the heir to a respected pureblood family.

~~~

The grand halls of Gringotts echoed with the sound of their footsteps as Wilfred Prince and Serena Snape made their way through the bustling bank. The goblin escort led them towards a door marked with an elegant sign that read "Manager - Bilgefang."

Wilfred approached the door and knocked firmly. A moment later, it swung open, revealing a goblin with a stern expression.

The goblin manager, Bilgefang, greeted them with a sharp nod as they entered his office at Gringotts. The room was adorned with golden accents, and the air held a distinct scent of parchment and ink.

Bilgefang, clad in his traditional goblin attire, sat behind a large, polished desk, his eyes glinting with shrewd intelligence.

"Lord Prince," Bilgefang greeted with a nod of acknowledgment. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit today?"

Wilfred inclined his head respectfully. "Bilgefang, we have come with a specific purpose," he replied in a calm yet authoritative tone. "I seek your assistance in matters concerning the Prince family accounts."

Bilgefang's gaze shifted to Serena, his sharp eyes assessing her for a moment before returning to Wilfred. "I see," the goblin manager responded, his voice measured and professional. 

"My granddaughter, Serena Snape, is to be recognized as the official heir to the Prince family name. I seek your guidance in facilitating the necessary permissions and registrations associated with her new role."

Bilgefang, the goblin manager, eyed Serena as her grandfather made the announcement. The goblin's sharp, calculating gaze seemed to take in every detail of her appearance, as if assessing her worthiness. Serena straightened her posture, meeting his gaze with confidence despite the nerves bubbling beneath the surface.

Bilgefang's eyes narrowed, the goblin's gaze scrutinizing Serena intently. "An heir, you say?" he mused, his tone filled with intrigue. "And what are the terms and conditions of this declaration, Lord Prince?"

Wilfred's voice held a firmness that conveyed his determination, "Once Serena turns 17, she will be granted full access to the Prince family vaults, accounts, properties, and assets. She shall have the authority to make decisions and wield the privileges befitting the heir of our noble lineage. But until then, she will only have access to the Trust vault and the Prince ring as she is still underage."

Bilgefang leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. "Normally, we require a blood test to confirm lineage and eligibility, but if you, Lord Prince, deem it unnecessary, then we shall proceed accordingly."

Wilfred nodded, his expression unwavering. "I have no doubt in her claim to the Prince family name."

The goblin manager regarded them both for a moment longer before he reached for a quill and parchment on his desk. "Very well," he said, his voice holding a hint of begrudging respect. "I shall prepare the necessary documents for the registration of Miss Serena Snape as the official heir to the Prince family."

Serena's heart swelled with gratitude. She had yearned for a sense of belonging for so long, and now it was finally within her grasp. She found herself exchanging a glance with her grandfather, a silent acknowledgment passing between them.

"Thank you, Bilgefang," Wilfred said, his voice holding a note of appreciation. "Your cooperation is highly valued."

The goblin nodded, his sharp eyes briefly softening. "It is my duty to serve the interests of the Prince family," he replied with a hint of respect. "Rest assured, Lord Prince, Miss Serena's status as the heir shall be duly recorded and recognized."

With a nod, Bilgefang turned to a fellow goblin standing by the side. "Grizmok," he said, "Retrieve the Prince family's heirloom ring."

Grizmok nodded and disappeared through a door at the back of the room. A few minutes later, he returned, bearing a small cushion on a tray, atop which sat the Prince family ring. Its appearance immediately caught Serena's eye; the band of the ring was pure gold, intricately designed with a snake coiled around the ring. The snake's head was adorned with two tiny, glowing sapphire eyes. The flute, clutched tightly in its fangs, was delicately crafted, and it glinted under the light as it sat in the snake's mouth. It was a beautiful piece of jewelry, rich in family history, and it was now hers.

As Grizmok handed the cushion to Serena, she carefully picked up the ring, examining the details with awe.

Slowly sliding the ring onto her finger, Serena felt a strange warmth spread from the ring into her hand. It was as if the ring was acknowledging her as its new owner.

The ring, initially large on her small fingers, began to resize itself, fitting perfectly on her ring finger. It felt natural, as though it had always belonged there.

Bilgefang watched the scene unfold with a sly grin on his face. "Congratulations, Miss Prince," he said with a hint of amusement in his voice. "The ring accepts you as the rightful heir. Had you not been of the Prince bloodline, it would have rejected you."

Serena looked at the goblin, her eyes wide in surprise. She was about to retort, but then she felt a hand on her head. She looked up to see her grandfather, Wilfred, patting her head with a satisfied smile on his face. It was rare to see him express such affection, and it made Serena's heart swell with happiness.

"Yes, yes, Bilgefang. We understand,"

Wilfred said, his eyes twinkling with pride as he looked down at Serena. "But it seems that won't be a problem. Our Serena is a true Prince."

Bilgefang chuckled, "Indeed, she is, Mr. Prince. Congratulations once again."

With that, Wilfred and Serena bid their farewell to the goblin manager and made their way out of the office, the weight of their accomplishment settling upon their shoulders. As they walked through the marble halls of Gringotts, Serena couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of purpose.

She was no longer just Serena Snape, but Serena Prince, the heir to a noble name and a legacy waiting to be written.