Harry and Draco hadn't seen or received a letter from Mia throughout the entire summer. Both had arrived at Potter Manor, eagerly anticipating the chance to spend time with Mia, but James had informed them that Mia had sent a letter the previous week apologizing for not being able to spend part of her vacation with them.

Harry had been sadder than usual, and Draco, well, he was disappointed because he had wanted Mia to teach him how to conjure a Patronus. They had each written to Mia separately but received no response.

One morning, as everybody sat down for breakfast, the upbeat melodies from the radio were abruptly interrupted by the voice of a reporter.

" The Prince's Palace of Monaco has just confirmed the death of Her Royal Highness Princess Sophia of Monaco"

The somber news of Princess Sofia's passing hung in the air as the Potter family sat around the breakfast table. Harry's thoughts immediately turned to his sister and Theo, knowing that they were directly affected by this loss.

Harry, with a concerned look on his face, turned to his mother. "Isn't that Jace's grandmother?" he asked.

"Yes, it is," Lily urged, her voice trembling slightly. "Turn on the TV, James."

The screen came to life with a BBC reporter standing in front of a grand image of the Prince of Monaco's Palace, as James turned up the volume as the reporter continued to provide details about the Queen's passing.

The BBC reporter continued to narrate, "Her Royal Highness departed this world in peace on July 14 at 8am local time at the Prince of Monaco's Palace, surrounded by her close family and loved ones."

Pictures of Princess Sofia throughout her life filled the television screen—her youthful days, her royal wedding, and her moments with her family. In some of the images, Mia and Theo were seen alongside the royal family.

As the news unfolded, the camera shifted to the doors of the Palace in Monaco, where a soldier held a statement from the Palace and hung it in the gates.

"The loss of Her Royal Highness is a moment of deep sorrow for Monaco and indeed for the entire world. During this period of mourning, our thoughts and prayers are with Her Royal Highness' family and loved ones as they navigate this difficult time." The statement read as it appeared on the screen.

Tears welled up in Lily's eyes as she listened to the report. She knew how much princess Sophia meant to Mia.

"In accordance with the traditions and protocols set forth in their constitution," the reporter went on, "Monaco is now entering a period of official mourning. During this time, flags will be flown at half-mast, and a state funeral will be held to honor Princess Sophia's memory and contributions to her nation."

Lily wiped away a tear and turned to everyone sat at the table. "We should reach out to Mia. She must be devastated."

Harry nodded in agreement. "I'll send her a letter today. Maybe we can visit her once the funeral arrangements are made."

Draco added, "And I'll write one too. I was hoping she'd teach me to cast a Patronus this summer."

As the BBC reporter concluded, "Monaco mourns the loss of a beloved monarch, but her legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of her people forever," The room was filled with a heavy silence.

Regulus, with a grave expression, spoke up first. "I hate to say it, but we're not going to see Mia, no matter how much we go to Monaco for the funeral."

Sirius looked confused. "Why not? She's my niece, and we want to support her."

Regulus sighed, trying to explain the situation. "Practically all of Monaco and the leaders of countries from around the world, hell even people from around the world are going to attend her state a state funeral, you don't just mingle freely."

James, growing increasingly worried about his daughter, leaned forward and asked, "Is there any way we can see Mia, Regulus?"

Regulus considered for a moment before responding. "A state funeral has a very strict protocol, everything must be discussed and approved by the Parliament. Including the people attending the funeral."

Harry's frustration bubbled up, and he protested, "But we're Mia's family!"

Lucius, ever the composed one, gently tried to explain the situation to Harry. "The funeral is for Jace's grandmother, Harry. Mia doesn't decide who can or cannot attend such a formal event."

Narcissa chimed in, offering an alternative perspective. "We can still go to Monaco to pay our respects for Mia. Princess Sofiia was surely like a grandmother to her."

James nodded, his resolve hardening. "That's what we'll do then. Once we find out the date of the state funeral, I'll order an international portkey for us to attend."

Inside the grand Prince's Palace of Monaco, chaos reigned as preparations for Princess Sofia's funeral were in full swing. Meetings with Parliament, discussions with the Archbishop of Monaco, and a meticulous adherence to protocol were all part of the demanding tasks at hand.

In a private office within the palace,Eloise, and her husband, Alec, found themselves engaged in a heartfelt argument amid the whirlwind of responsibilities.

Eloise, her voice tinged with determination, said to Alec, "I've made up my mind, Alec. I'm going to leave politics."

Alec's brows furrowed in surprise and concern. "But you still have a year left as President. Why would you do that now?"

Eloise's gaze softened as she replied, "Right now, the most important thing is family, Alec. You need me more than ever."

Alec, clearly touched by her words, felt a surge of protectiveness. "You've worked hard to become President. It wouldn't be fair to give it up now."

Eloise sighed and said with resignation, "Life, in general, isn't fair."

Alec managed a small, wistful laugh, a rare sound in the midst of their mourning. "You always have a way of putting things into perspective."

Eloise continued with a gentle smile, "I had planned to leave politics because I know that at some point, you'd be called in to take over your mother."

Alec's gratitude shone in his eyes as he pulled Eloise into a warm embrace. "Thank you for being by my side, Ellie."

Eloise returned the hug affectionately. "It's nothing, Alec. I'm your wife, and you won't get rid of me so easily."

Breaking away from the hug, Alec's concern turned to his son. "How is Jace holding up?"

Eloise's expression softened as she thought of their son. "He's trying to cope as best as he can."

Alec's frustration and sadness were evident. "I don't want him drowning his sorrows in alcohol."

Eloise reassured him, "Jace is fifteen, Alec. He just lost his grandmother. It's normal for him to act this way."

Alec's voice trembled with worry. "I don't want him to do anything stupid."

Eloise's tone remained reassuring. "Jace won't do anything stupid. He has Theo and Mia looking out for him."

Alec managed a small smile, relieved at the thought. "If Jace and Mia are together, I know he'll be fine."

Eloise pulled him close again, holding him tightly. "We're going to be okay, Alec. We'll get through this together.

Jace's heart ached with the weight of grief that had settled upon him like a heavy shroud. He couldn't fathom how, in the span of just a year, his beloved grandmother's health had deteriorated so drastically. His grandmother had been one of the most important women in his life, a source of guidance, love, and cherished memories.

His grandmother had shared her passions for horseback riding and sailing with him, creating bonds and memories that he held dear. When he faced troubles or dilemmas, it was to her that he turned for advice, knowing that she was always there to lend a sympathetic ear and offer wise counsel. She was also the only one who knew the secret Jace had harbored in his heart – his enduring crush on Mia.

Even though he knew deep down that he would always carry a little flame for Mia, he had come to terms with it. What mattered more was the friendship they shared and the unspoken understanding between them.

This summer, upon their return from Durmstrang, Jace's father had delivered the devastating news that his grandmother had fallen seriously ill. Immediately, Jace, Mia, and Theo had canceled any vacation plans they had and rushed to Monaco to be by her side. The mere thought of losing his grandmother had been unbearable, and he had needed his friends with him during this trying time.

Jace couldn't express the depth of his gratitude for having Mia and Theo by his side throughout the past week. The days had been filled with frantic chaos as the preparations for Princess Sofia's funeral unfolded. There were countless meetings, protocol to adhere to, and endless decisions to make.

In the midst of the turmoil, they had found moments of solace in each other's company. One evening, after a particularly grueling day, they had retreated to his grandmother's lush gardens. They had shared stories, laughter, and anecdotes about the pranks they had played within the Palace walls and the countless memories they had created together.

As the evening wore on and they had consumed their fair share of alcohol, a mischievous idea had taken hold. In a playful frenzy, Jace and Theo had lifted Mia and thrown her into the inviting pool that bordered the gardens. Mia, never one to back down from a challenge, had feigned drowning, only to retaliate by tossing both boys into the water with a triumphant grin. In that moment, as they splashed and laughed together, Jace had felt a profound sense of gratitude for his friends, especially Mia. She was his ray of sunshine in the darkest of times.

The day of the funeral had arrived, and Mia and Theo, both dressed somberly in black attire, made their way to the Palace gardens. They knew this was where they would find Jace, and their hearts were heavy with concern for their friend.

Theo's worry was evident as he asked Mia, "How's Jace holding up?"

Mia's expression mirrored her concern. "He's trying his best," she replied, her voice heavy with distress.

Theo offered a small, reassuring smile. "Well, having you by his side means the world to him."

Mia shook her head, her eyes filled with sincerity. "It's not just about me, Teddy. Jace needs both of us."

Theo's smile remained understanding as he responded, "We both know that Jace would choose you, and I'm perfectly fine with that. I respect his choice. I'll always choose you."

Mia's voice was resolute as she stated, "I would always choose us above all else, Teddy, always."

Theo simply nodded in agreement and changed the subject. "So, what's the plan for today?"

Mia explained, "We'll walk behind Jace and uncle Enzo as they carry the coffin from the Palace to the Cathedral."

Theo looked astonished. "I thought that walking behind the coffin was only for the monarch's children and grandchildren."

Mia offered a soft smile. "Sophia had left it in writing that she wanted us, me and you, to accompany Jace the day she passed."

As they approached the garden, they spotted Jace standing by his grandmother's beloved rose bushes. With a mixture of sorrow and determination, they carefully approached him. Upon hearing their footsteps, Jace turned around, his eyes red-rimmed from crying. Without a word, he embraced Mia, clinging to her as he sobbed inconsolably.

Tears streamed down Jace's face as he clung to Mia, seeking solace and comfort in her presence. She whispered soothing words into his ear, assuring him that he would be okay and that they were there to support him through this difficult time.

Mia whispered comforting words, her voice soft and soothing. "You're going to be okay, Jace. We're here for you."

Mia glanced over Jace's shoulder to meet Theo's eyes, and in that silent exchange, they both understood something. Jace might have difficult choices to make in life, but it was clear that he would choose Mia over anyone and anything.

Flags of Monaco flew at half-mast, their vibrant red and white colors now muted as a symbol of the nation's mourning. The solemnity of the moment was magnified by the presence of a large red and white flag, featuring the distinguished coat of arms of the House of Grimaldi and the Latin phrase "Deo Juvante" ("With the help of God"), which draped the coffin in which Princess Sofia was laid to rest.

A dignified and meticulously orchestrated ceremony unfolded, with a 170-member procession accompanying the coffin. Ten bearers, carefully chosen from the Prince's Company of Carabineros, bore the weight of the casket on their shoulders. The somber procession moved with measured steps from the palace to the cathedral, covering a dignified 200-meter route.

Close behind the coffin walked the Queen's children, her grandchildren, and two cherished individuals—Mia and Theo—considered as close as family. Together, they formed a poignant testament to the deep bond they shared with Queen Sofia.

As the coffin emerged from the palace, it passed through the Gate of Honour, a symbolic threshold that was ceremoniously closed behind it. The air was filled with the haunting strains of Beethoven's "Funeral March," a poignant choice made by Alec, paying tribute to his mother's memory. The city bore witness as the coffin made its solemn journey, and a battery of cannons fired 36 resounding gun salutes, echoing the nation's grief.

Upon arrival at the cathedral, six officers took up the responsibility of carrying the coffin inside. In a gesture rich with symbolism, a sword was carefully placed upon the coffin, and members of the Grimaldi family stepped forward to light candles, their faces marked by sorrow and reverence.

The cathedral was a somber yet dignified tableau, filled with dignitaries and representatives from no fewer than 60 countries. Among the mourners were members of the royal families from far-reaching nations, including Bahrain, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Egypt, Greece, Japan, Luxembourg, Norway, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

As the requiem mass began, the mournful strains of Mozart's "Lacrimosa" filled the hallowed space. The haunting melody had previously been played at the funeral of Princess Sofia's husband, Albert, and now it resonated as a poignant reminder of the profound loss that had befallen Monaco and the world. In this sacred moment, amid the somber chords of the music, Princess Sofia was laid to rest, her memory etched into the hearts of all who had gathered to pay their respects.

The somber procession had concluded, and the mourners gathered outside the cathedral, their emotions running deep. Lily, her eyes brimming with tears yet a sense of awe in her voice, said, "It was a beautiful procession."

Draco, ever inquisitive, suddenly asked, "Who is God?"

All eyes turned to Lily, recognizing that she was the one among them with Muggle roots, the one who could offer an explanation. Lily gently wiped away her tears and began, "God is a powerful and loving being who created the world and everything in it. People believe in God to help them understand the world and find comfort and guidance in their lives. It's a bit like having an invisible friend who cares about us and wants us to be good and happy. But not all people believe in God, and that's okay too. It's something people decide for themselves as they grow up."

Harry, intrigued, asked his mother, "Do you think Mia believes in God?"

Lily, while stroking Harry's hair, replied, "I'm quite sure she does. Mia grew up in a Catholic family, so it's likely that she believes in God."

Draco, still puzzled, frowned and said, "I don't understand."

Narcissa, concerned for her son, asked, "What don't you understand, Draco?"

Draco explained, "God is there because Muggles don't know about magic, but Mia is a witch, and she doesn't have to believe in God."

Narcissa offered an explanation, "Mia grew up believing in God from a very young age. Magic and belief in a higher power can coexist, Draco."

James, worried about his daughter, asked, "Did anyone see Mia's face during the ceremony?"

Harry chimed in, "It was awful. She looked like she didn't feel anything."

Regulus stepped in to clarify, "At a state funeral, the family is not allowed to cry. It's part of the protocol."

Sirius, clearly angered by this, remarked, "That's terrible. Mia's just a child, and she has every right to grieve."

Lucius added, "She probably cried in private, but in front of the public and the nation, they have to appear strong."

Lily saddened said, "It's heart-wrenching to mourn the death of a loved one with everyone watching your every move."

Harry asked his parents, "What are we going to do now?"

James answered, "We're going back to London."

Harry protested, sulking, "But I want to see my sister."

Lily reminded him gently, "Mia is with her family now, supporting Jace. We should respect that."

Harry exclaimed, "But she's my sister, not Jace's!"

James, his brows furrowed, told Harry, "Right now, for your sister, her family consists of Lorenzo and Isabelle. They're mourning Sofia's need to understand that, Harry"

Harry muttered, "I don't think it's fair."

Regulus chimed in, "Harry, there will be times when Mia will prioritize her adoptive family in situations like these."

Draco, concerned about when they would see Mia again, asked, "When will we see Mia next?"

Lily offered some hope, "If everything goes well, we'll see Mia for Yule."