Chapter 4: Black Manor

Harry was in the midst of a workout when he felt a magical presence pass through his warning wards. His curiosity piqued as it wasn't that strong, barely registering via the wards. Harry stopped his workout and made his way towards the door only to be stopped as he heard a tapping from a window. He smiled as he saw an owl staring back at him, their expression one of near indignance. Harry hurried over and opened the window for the creature. The owl flew around the room a couple times before landing on Harry's shoulder. Harry chuckled as he remembered he hadn't set up the small perch yet. Choosing to conjure one Harry was sure the little slap from the owls' wings was on purpose as the owl moved over to the perch.

Harry took the letter away from the owl, only then noting the small crest on the harness. Mindlessly Harry summoned some treats as the owl seemed to be waiting to take a response. Opening the letter, he sits down as he reads the correspondence from the Lord Black

Lord Peverell,

You are cordially invited to dinner tomorrow night starting at 5pm. Your comments from the Gamot meeting have intrigued me and my Cousin, Lady Potter, has reminded me that family is of the highest importance to our family. Thus, it would not do to see one of our relation, no matter how distant, flounder as they discover their place. Fletcher will await your letter of acceptance.

Lord Black.

Harry shook his head at the arrogance displayed by Arcturus. His mind tugged at a thread for a moment. Trying to meditate, Harry attempted to pull at the thread of memory. As we walked through the ruins of his mind harry saw the illuminated path that the memory threaded down. Following for a bit Harry found it going through a wall. Sitting down in his own mind Harry set to work. It was sometime later when he looked at the wall only to see it still standing. Frowning in confusion he stood up and looked around. Harry saw one of the towers had been partially rebuilt. Harry ended his meditation, leaving the mind palace.

Getting up he looked around and saw the owl still on the conjured perch. It was only then that Harry realized he hadn't responded to the letter. Giving the owl a sheepish look Harry went back and wrote an affirmative reply to the Lord Black. Returning to the owl Harry brought some treats for the bird as an apology. Harry chuckled as the owl took three treats before even looking at the letter. After enjoy the treats the owl held out their leg allowing Harry to attach the letter. Watching the owl leave Harry settled back into his meditations.

Arcturus was looking at the response he received yesterday. It was simple and concise, containing none of the typical language most purebloods would employ. He was pulled out of his musings at a knock on the door. Bellatrix entered after being allowed entry. She sat down across from her grandfather and held herself poised.

"Bella. Tell me, have you thought any more on any pursuits you wish to take?" Arcturus questioned.

Bellatrix scoffed, eyes turning to the window "As if I will have any choice in the matter."

Arcturus raised his eyebrow, "I am not your father, so tell me what it is you want to do."

Bella continued to stare out the window, "What I want does not matter." She took a deep breath before returning, "I will do my duty to the family."

Arcturus leaned back in his chair, "In that case, you will be willing to help gather some information." He continued before she could respond, "Tonight the Lord Peverell will be dining with us. Charlus and Dorea will be joining us as well. However, Lord Peverell has accepted my invitation to come earlier. I would like you to show him around the manor."

"Around the manor?" Bella questioned.

Arcturus nodded, "He revealed to me that there is Black Blood in his veins." At Bella's expression he gestured for her to speak.

"Father claimed him to be a jumped up mudblood. One who has claimed far above their station."

Arcturus' eyebrows rose in surprise, "When did you see your father?"

Bella looked sheepish, "Yesterday, we were supposed to meet and discuss my future for the family. He mostly spoke about politics though. Was he right?"

Arcturus shrugged in response, "Really we do not know. He is not from England, and in that way many would not consider him a pureblood. Yet as Dorea reminded me, the Line of Peverell does not respond to traditional magics. They were here before the time of the Wizengamot and their Heirs have never bonded to the traditions."

"Then why are we entertaining him? If he does not conform to traditions he should be the one courting us, befalling our whims."

"Because I am still head of this family and I will it." Arcturus responded strongly. Bella hung her head slightly, allowing Arcturus to continue, "Neither you or your father were in the Gamot gallery. The young Lord has intrigued me with knowledge that is beyond his appearance. The mere presence of a Peverell Heir dictates change and we have been given a chance to shape it."

Bella's rose to meet her grandfathers gaze, "You mean to use him."

"As does every other family in magical Britain. We just have the advantage of blood." Arcturus saw Bella chewing on her cheek, "Speak."

"The way father was speaking, he seemed to want to kill Lord Peverell."

"Cygnus may want whatever. I am head of this family and my word is law. Understood?"

"Yes, Lord Black."

Mollified, Arcturus settled back into his chair, having gotten up during part of his earlier rant, "My order stands. Show Lord Peverell across the grounds and speak to him about our history. Gain his trust."

"Yes, Lord Black. Is this to lead to a marriage contract?"

"Not as of yet. Though it crossed my mind, it could alienate as much as bind." Bella released a sigh as Arcturus continued, "Have you kept up your wand work?"

Bella's face expressed her confusion at the change of subject. "Yes grandfather."

"Good. Draw the Lord Peverell into a spar, and take him to the training room to do so."

"As you will. May I know why?"

"Fights teach more about a man than words ever will. Go inform your sisters that we are to have company. I want them there to greet Lord Peverell."

Bellatrix recognized the dismissal and began to get up. She was stopped as she heard her name called, "Do not underestimate Lord Peverell, Bellatrix. We may have the connection of Blood, yet we remain at the disadvantage."

Bellatrix nodded as she exited her grandfather's legacy. She went to find her sisters out on the property. Andi was enjoying the pool, resting from an earlier swim. The two talked for a few minutes as Bella was interested in Andi's relaxation after finishing her OWL's. Andi informed here that rest could've been better, yet refused to go any deeper once Bella pried. Bella promised that she would figure out what was bothering Andi.

Narcissa was busy in the library. Several texts were laid out discussing various magical fields. A projection of the human body was floating in the air, Narcissa's focus on some part in the torso. Narcissa was not happy that Bella had interrupted, and made her displeasure known. Bella was quickly chased out of the library after Narcissa promised to be presentable in time for the arrival of Lord Peverell.

With some time on her hands Bella made her way to the one of the gardens. Sitting down she reflected on her conversations with both her father and grandfather. They were so different in nature but brought her to same conclusion. She frowned as she realized that her future freedom was in serious jeopardy. Looking at the sky there was the briefest of thoughts about running, but it left her mind as quickly as it entered. Her words to grandfather still rang true, she was willing to do her duty for the family.

The three sisters ended up getting together. There was laughter floating through the room as they enjoyed the company and just basked in each other's presence. It had been some time since all three had spent time getting ready and dressing fancy for something involving people outside the family. Jokes and shenanigans between the sisters had become less common, yet in this moment they let everything loose. For the first time in months Bella let peace settle in her body. After a time they had all settled into appropriate attire and appearance. Bella as the oldest led them down to the atrium outside of the floo entrance.

It wasn't long before Arcturus entered the room accompanied by Lord Peverell. Each sister offered a small curtsy to the Lord as they were presented by their Grandfather. Only Bella was obliged to show Lord Peverell around the manor, yet Andi chose to accompany them. Narcissa excused herself saying that she needed to continue some work that was interesting her. Arcturus indulged the whim, reminding his youngest granddaughter that she was expected at dinner.

Harry found himself with a Black sister on each arm as he was directed through the manor grounds. He found the sights intriguing and soaked in the presence as it was completely new to him. The Black Manor was never something that he had previously explored, instead moving the seat of power for the Black family to 12 Grimmauld Place. Seeing the manor in its glory caused him to better understand Narcissa's anger with his choice. They were walking through much of the grounds when Andromeda claimed a headache and said she would meet them at dinner later. Harry felt Bella squirm against him as she wanted to go check on her sister. However, protocol dictated that she stay next to Harry's side.

Harry led them further down the path, yet did not draw the woman into conversation. He waited for her cue that she was back and ready to continue the conversation. He waved off her apology before changing the subject.

"Miss Black, I find myself suitably impressed by the manor of your family. However, I have yet to hear anything about you." Harry started

Bella looked at him, "I do not know what my Lord would find intriguing about me."

"What is it you dream of?"

Bella glared at Harry, "That is too familiar, my Lord."

She wasn't expecting the chuckle from Lord Peverell, "Fair. What about a mastery? If you had to pursue a mastery, what would you do?"

Bella chewed on her lip. She had long though about pursuing a Mastery, but understood that it was not something that her father would let. Still to answer the question was no great burden, and it gave her an opening for what grandfather wanted.

It was some long moments of silence, and Harry thought she wouldn't respond so he started to speak, "I only meant a…"

"Defense." Bella interrupted, "If I had to pursue a Mastery, it would be through Defense."

Harry nodded, "A noble branch. One that seems to be far more necessary in current times." Bella looked at Harry confusedly, but he continued before she could say anything, "What draws you to Defense?"

Bella continued to stare at him for a moment before returning her gaze forward, "Its a branch that incorporates a variety of skills. You can Master defense, but to do so you will need understanding of other branches of magic. Proficiency in both transfiguration and charms help elevate your mastery as well."

Harry smiled, "And where do you see yourself right now."

"Better than most."

Harry stopped their walk and captured her eyes with his own, "Care to find out just how good?"

Bella saw the mirth dancing in his eyes, "Come with me."

Bella led them to the specialized training chamber. Harry felt the various wards and protections slip over as they walked into the room. Pulling off his coat, he transfigured the rest of his outfit into something that was more appropriate for a spar. He turned to do the same for Bella only to see that she had already done that and was giving him an impatient stare. Chuckling he stepped towards her, only to be aware of Arcturus entering the room to observe.

As soon as he stepped into the arena Bellatrix unleashed a spell chain. Harry dodged the first two spells completely before throwing up a shield. Weathering the chain, he kept moving. For the moment he was fully on the defensive, letting Bellatrix dictate the pace of the spar. She was relentless. Maintained effective spell choice. Her casting was the one weakness. In a moment where one of her wand movements took too long Harry struck. Sending a quick chain of three spells at her, he aimed to disrupt her momentum and concentration. Bellatrix was hasty in her shield, taking the all three spells head on instead of moving out of the way. As Harry moved in, she continued to move away, maintaining distance. Taking one of her earrings she threw it towards Harry; transfiguring it into a slab of rock mid flight. Harry quickly sliced through the rock, sending a chunk back towards Bellatrix. She quickly countered by exploding the rock and letting the little bits mostly fly around her. As she watched the debris fly by she felt a joy well up inside her. She felt alive. Not being able to stop Bellatrix started to laugh before launching more curses at her opponent.

Harry was enjoying the spar. It felt good to release his magic. To let it all fly. Then he wasn't. It was the laugh. Not as shrill as what he knew it but it was still there. On instinct he felt his magic well up. His vision tunneled on the laughing witch. The one that had killed his godfather. In that moment he wasn't in the manor. He was back beside the Veil. Screaming. Pain. Tears. Harry could feel the magic start to flow through the wand, only for the poorly tuned wand to give off feedback. Harry was snapped out of the memory, yet the magic was too late to stop. Twisting the wand, Harry changed the trajectory of the spell towards the ground. Near enough that Bella shouldn't notice that he wasn't actually aiming for her. He immediately changed his strategy, for the duel. Instead of reacting he started to analyze. If she wanted a mastery, why not begin now.

Arcturus watched as something change in Lord Peverell. The actions became far more controlled. His offensive spells lowered in frequency and intensity. Instead the young Lord was focused on avoidance. Arcturus looked back towards his granddaughter, and could see the frustration building on her face. Arcturus knew it wasn't going to be long before Bella lost herself to fight. Bella was quick, but no match for the Peverell. He continued to watch the two, his eyes watching Bella more than the Lord.

"She seems to be doing well." Arcturus started as he registered that Narcissa had joined him in observation.

"Keep watching. Lord Peverel will end this when he wants to." Arcturus responded

The two turned back to watch the spar. Narcissa couldn't see what her grandfather was talking about but continued to try and figure out what was happening. She stole a glance at her sister and saw the look of frustration starting to build. Narcissa heard Arcturus mutter something about a mistake before watching Lord Peverell quickly dispatch her sister. Replaying what she saw, Narcissa counted eight moves from her grandfathers comment. Lord Peverell had distracted her sister. Got within Bellatrix's guard. Then promptly disarmed and stunned her.

Bellatrix groaned as she was brought to consciousness. She didn't really remember what hit her but everything was sore. She was helped to a sitting position by Lord Peverel. "What was that?"

Harry answered, "A spar. You are definitely good."

Bellatrix snorted, "Not good enough to beat you."

"Not right now, but the potential is there."

"And what, pray tell, am I doing so wrong."

Harry smiled, "You fall into predictable patterns with your spell choice. And you rely far to much on your shielding."

"I don't want to get hit by your spell fire." Bellatrix argued indignantly.

"Shields aren't the only way to get hit."

"He's right." Arcturus interrupted. "Shielding can leave you highly vulnerable to any manner of attack. Lord Peverell?"

Arcturus had levitated a series of training dummies towards Harry. Harry looked at the man before nodding. Arcturus set the dummies up and got both his granddaughters out of the sparring area. On his signal the dummies began sending spellfire towards Harry. Harry responded by dodging. Everything. Six dummies raced around the room, stunners firing constantly. Yet Harry never let any stunner even get close. Narcissa was vocal in her wonder. Watching the young Lord seemingly float and fly around the room. Momentum carried Harry around the room.

Finally, he chose to fight back. It was so quick Bella nearly missed his wand movement. A simple point was all it took before a stunner hit a dummy dead center. Harry dodged out of one stunner then seemed to hesitate. Only to dodge at the last moment as a stunner from one dummy hit another. Bellatrix watched as Harry dispatched the rest of the dummies. He never stood still. Never had proper stance. Yet his spell work was precise. Conservative. Practical. Narcissa started cheering and clapping after the last dummy fell. Bellatrix felt her breathing hitch as Harry turned around and gave them a small bow.

Walking over to them Harry spoke, "Most magicals are lazy. They believe in their own superiority."

"We are superior." Bella responded automatically

Before she knew it there was a knife in her face. Her wand remained in its holster. Harry chuckled as the knife disappeared, "Perhaps. But your reliance on magic negates all other threat considerations."

Arcturus growled, "Though you raise a valid point, never threaten one of my grandchildren ever again."

Harry nodded, "In most fights, your movement is key."

"What about spell choice?" Narcissa asked

Arcturus answered, "Spell choice is important as it can accomplish a lot. Move an opponent, throw them off guard, or keep them out of their own rhythm. Yet Lord Peverell is right. Movement and ability to move is key to any fight. You become harder to hit and keep magical strength high."

Bella watched as Harry nodded before she tore her eyes away. She would need to replay the memory and see if she could see what Harry was speaking about. Arcturus sent her away to go clean up. The wards had just informed him that Charlus and Dorea had arrived for dinner. After a quick refresh, Bellatrix made her way to the dining room and found her seat was next to the Lord Peverell. On her other side sat Aunt Dorea, with her two sisters sitting opposite side of the table. Throughout the early moments of dinner Bellatrix continually replayed the spar. Ignoring the conversation she continually focused on Harry's movements.

"You held back!" Bellatrix exclaimed. Only afterwards did she look around and realize that she had interrupted something. Uncle Charlus seemed to be holding back laughter and Aunt Dorea's disappointment was clearly visible.

Harry was graceful however, "Yes, I did. The fact that you even recognize that is a good thing."

"Held back in what, dear?" Dorea asked.

"I offered to spar with Bellatrix after learning that Defense was one of her favorite subjects." Harry answered, "Bellatrix seems to have realized that I was matching her ability."

Narcissa spoke up, "He was amazing against the training dummies."

Dorea turned to Harry, "And where did you learn to fight?"

There was a sad smile on Harry's face as he answered, the weight of everything settling on him for a moment, "Experience."

"Fights when you were younger?" Dorea asked.

"War." Harry answered

There was a moment of pause amongst everyone before Charlus broke it, "You are too young for Grindelwald's war."

"And yet his supporters have found their way to keep the war alive." Harry gave a mirthless laugh, "The clans of Magical Greece don't help. Many his supporters have found refuge in Greco areas as the clans of that area of Europe and Asia remain apathetic to larger world issues. And even then, it wouldn't really matter. Greece's peace is really just a constant state of war."

Dorea gave him a look, "Sounds like no place for a young man."

At this Harry offered a genuine smile, "War is just a fact of life for me. I've been fighting and defending my life since near my birth. It's as much a part of me as the blood running through my veins."

Bellatrix wasn't sure what came over her, yet she placed a hand on Harry's arm. She hoped she conveyed the comfort that she wanted to. He didn't look at her, and she let it fall away fairly quickly. Andromeda raised an eyebrow and Bellatrix felt a blush start to creep up on her. Conversation continued as Dorea attempted to figure more out about the young lord. Bellatrix didn't pay attention as some of Harry's earlier comments continued to float around in her head.

A/N: Another chapter down. This was fairly fun for me to write. I always enjoy exploring characters and their traits. Anyway reviews always welcome. Follow Links in Bio for Ch 5 which will be posted tomorrow.

Next Update: Sept 25