Eira rose from her chair, her gaze fixed steadily on Lucien. "Well," she said, her voice calm but authoritative, "it seems our discussion has reached its conclusion. We have arrived at an understanding, yes? Both of us will safeguard each other's interests, as has always been the case. I will not interfere with the French Ministry or the pure-blood families, so long as they do not provoke my family."
Lucien smiled, a measured, approving curl of his lips. "That is correct. And, if I may add, now that we have officially established this partnership, there are matters that extend beyond our borders. Suspicious activities have been reported across the Atlantic."
Eira's brow furrowed. "Suspicious activities? Reaching here? What could possibly concern us across the ocean?"
Lucien leaned back slightly, hands resting on the polished surface of his desk. "It seems your late grandfather, Elijah White, held several meetings with influential American families. Their aim was political—they sought to extend their influence into Europe. To do so, they need a strong agent, someone capable of holding sway in France and England, from which they could reach the wider magical communities of the East."
Eira's lips curved into a faint, skeptical smile. "I see. And my family? I assume we are somehow involved?"
Lucien's golden eyes glimmered. "Indeed. Rumors have reached me that certain American factions are increasingly dissatisfied with the White family's power. In past decades, the Blacks and the Whites kept each other in balance. Now, the White family dominates, especially over European affairs. Naturally, this displeases them."
Eira let out a low, amused scoff. "What did you expect? They always bristle at the rise of others."
"Precisely," Lucien said. "During the Grindelwald War, they attempted to exploit the chaos to extend their influence in Europe, but their plans were thwarted—lost in both conflict and the deaths of key figures. Since then, they have patiently sought a new opportunity, a way to challenge your family's authority."
Eira's gaze sharpened. "And whom have they chosen as their pawn?"
Lucien's voice dropped to a conspiratorial tone. "The Black family. The Americans intend to use them once more. They are seeking to reinstate Sirius Black as Lord of the Black line. If possible, they would arrange for an American woman to marry into the family, thereby controlling the Black legacy and gaining a foothold in Britain—and, from there, all of Europe."
Eira raised an eyebrow. "So that is their plan."
Lucien inclined his head. "As far as I know. Some within the British Ministry are actively encouraging for Sirius Black's innocence, promoting his innocence from his crimes, leveraging his association with Harry Potter—the Boy Who Lived—to establish him as a legitimate head of the family. Once that is achieved, they hope to extend their influence through him."
Eira's lips curved into a thin, knowing smile. "Thank you for the warning, Minister. It seems I will have some… investigations of my own to undertake." She gestured gracefully. "Nevertheless, I appreciate your time—and your invitation. This is my assistant, Emma Bloom. You already know her; in my absence, she acts as the matriarch of the White family. Her word is mine, Minister. You may trust her completely."
Lucien nodded, and Emma inclined her head in acknowledgment.
Eira stood fully, a signal that their meeting had ended. "Well then, Minister, enjoy your day. We shall meet again when necessary."
Lucien rose as well, bowing slightly. "I am pleased we have reached an understanding. Until next time, Lady White. Have a pleasant day."
They left the office together, walking down the atrium in measured silence for a few steps before Eira spoke, her tone contemplative. "What do you make of all that, Emma? Everything he said…"
Emma folded her hands calmly. "Observing closely, it seems most of it is true. He is not exaggerating, and I believe his calculations are accurate."
Era's brow furrowed. "But why us? My family is powerful—surely the Americans could offer him a more lucrative alliance?"
Emma tilted her head thoughtfully. "It is not merely a matter of wealth or influence. Lucien is wary and paranoid, even. He fears rivals undermining him in the coming years. He needed a strong ally, someone capable of neutralizing threats to his position. That is why he chose you. Your backing strengthens his hand. It is a gamble, but a calculated one—and it appears to have succeeded."
Eira nodded slowly, a glimmer of approval in her eyes. "Indeed. A smart man, that Lucien. But we cannot leave matters of the Americans unchecked. I want everything on their dealings and, Emma… keep a close watch on Sirius Black. I want to know everything that happens in Britain regarding him."
Emma inclined her head. "I am already observing. So far, nothing major has changed. There are rumors of sightings in Hogsmeade, but the Dementors continue their patrols, and Hogwarts remains secure."
Eira's expression softened slightly. "And my aunt Isabella? How fares she?"
Emma smiled. "She has been well. Assisting with family affairs, enjoying her studies, and taking some personal time for herself."
A mischievous glint appeared in Eira's eyes. "Well, make sure she takes time for herself in the right ways. Take her out, Emma. Dates, dances… lovely evenings. Life is too short to hide in office."
Emma's cheeks flushed slightly, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "Of course, my lady. I shall."
Eira chuckled, a rare note of warmth breaking through her usual composure today. "Good. Let's go, then."
They continued walking toward the Ministry's exit. Eira prepared to return to Beauxbâtons via the Floo Network, while Emma would return to the Parisian White Manor, and to her own quiet comforts—with her lover Isabella waiting.