AN: Ayeeeee Just got out of work so I thought why not? Thanks again for the reviews, follows, fav ect... Fav/Follow/Rev Thanks for reading again~

Launching off the dreadful stove called the Floo, Mortimer plunged forwards. Resulting in him landing down. Using his hands to break his fall, there was a moment of embarrassment trailing down his feeble body.

Not long after, Severus had also appeared as well. A frown played at his face once he began eviscerating any remaining soot. Turning over to Mortimer he applied the same technique.

Recuperating from the mortifying display, mortimer looked around him, amazed to see a widely accommodating headroom.

Wow... The place seemed massive compared to Nana's! Browsing the large quarter, Severus' sharp glare snapped the boy's attention.

"Stay here and do not squabble. I will be back momentarily." Instead of sharing his usual low-patience attitude, mortimer was surprised to see a look of forlorn in his eyes.

Mortimer wondered as to why but didn't comment.

Poking around, the high marble ceilings easily reverberated any noise that was made. Every peice of furniture looked like a piece of art, worth more than the clothes on his back. Mortimer was almost scared to move out fear that he might stain or damage the possessions.

He honestly felt tired. It was a lot to process that it left him emotionally exhausted. The more concerning thoughts were on his father specifically.

As the old wizard previously stated. His father's dislike for muggles can be dated back to when he was born. Mortimer can somewhat picture that. He suspects that Tom had been mistreated, just as he was. It might have been to the point of condemning them to low degrees, fueled by hatred.

Mortimer found himself sympathizing for a while. Similarly, he went through an ordeal that changed him. But thankfully had survived. At the cost of one death.

Despite that little fact, Mortimer had no desire following the Dark Lord's footsteps, or anyone's for that matter. He wanted to figure things out on his own - about this new world, about his new family.

A lingering thought - Who would he grow up to be? What kind person will he become? Would he sprout into his father - Or worse? Dumbledore had already confronted his concerns towards mortimer. He feared another dark wizard, a dark lord, another Voldemort.

If the Headmaster believed in this theory. Who's to say others wouldn't think the same thing?

Releasing a sigh, the young boy snapped his neck. It was too early to say how he would mature in the upcoming years. He was still a child trying to make sense of this world he had been thrust into.

He needed a moment to breath.

Looking around, he found that there was a set of lavishing sofas. Too wide for his frame and pillows too big for his head. The echoing of his footsteps as he walked towards the furniture were only sound for a few seconds.

Resting on the soft cushion, mortimer was anxious. Evident about their wealth made him rather uneasy. Not meaning any offense. It was a whole different type of breed. The clothing he wore made him feel like a peasant and comparing it to the environment, made him look like a beggar.

Mortimer felt a prickle when he sat there quietly. Seconds went by it had finally occurred to him that someone else has entered the room.

A boy who seemed to be about the same age as him. Whereas mortimer had both hair and eyes coloured pitch-dark, this boy was the complete opposite. With matching eyes and hair that were so pale, one could consider it white. Put both children side by side and you would get a monochrome painting of sorts.

Mortimer was surprised but kept it well hidden. The boy was wearing intricate clothing. By looking at him, he guessed that this young man was none other than his cousin.

Studying Mortimer with his gaze. There was a sense of snootiness in his pitch voice. "What are you wearing?"

Mortimer stared at the boy for a few seconds before he replied in a most dully tone. "Clothes."

"They look muggle." He scoffed, pointing out the quality of the fabric.

Looking down at his wrinkled shirt, mortimer answered in a rather obvious voice. "They are."

Lifting his eye brow, the other boy began teasing. "Why would you even wear that? Father says only filthy muggles would dare to dress like that."

Seeing where the conversation's path was leading. Two options weighed inside. First and most appealing was to simply ignore him. Two, appease the bratty boy. None of which will silence the boy sadly. What was left for him now was to keep it simple and hope he gets bored by him.

Cloaking his face, he discounted the snobbiness the other boy was expressing and blinked once. "It was suitable... for the time."

Folding his arms, distrustfulness began forming. "You're not one of them, are you?"

"What if I was?" Mortimer challenged, lifting his eyebrow.

"I doubt it. My father would never allow them access in the manor, let alone, sit in mother's fine furniture." He smirked assuredly.

Rolling his eyes, Mortimer raised his hands, surrendering in a jokingly manner. "Oh - You caught me."

"Are you making fun of me?" The boy almost sneered.

Repressing another eye roll, he shook his head. "No - What makes you say that?"

The boy stood near him and paused shortly. Scrunching up his eyes in suspicion. "What's your name?" He interrogated.

Clearingd his throat, he murmured quietly. "Mortimer."

The name alone and his face lifted, full of awareness. "You're the one mother won't stop talking about. You're my cousin."

Not missing the fact that boy's demeanor changed so quickly, he also took note that he appeared rather excited and began to sit right next to him.

Turning away, mortimer fiddled with her fingers and quietly spoke. "Guess so..."

A few short seconds of uninterrupted silence, it was there that Draco had spoken out loud to then ask. "Where have you been? Mother says you've been sent to live off with muggles. Is it true? Father said it was not possible because aunt Bella would strangle herself before even considering it. But mother thinks there might have been complications. Who knows honestly? I think you might because you're the one that was living there. I guess the same question still applies? Where have you been?" He repeated, flooding him with endless questions.

Turning over to face him again. He gave of a drool stare. "Don't you think it's rude to ask so many personal questions when you have yet to introduce yourself?"

The boy blinked a couple of times before he straightens his back, raising his chin up high with pride. The blonde boy prattled his name. "I'm Draco Malfoy."

This of course did nothing for Mortimer as he was left unfazed by the name that was thrown at him. And instead of being awestruck like draco had been expecting, his cousin merely looked away and wandered deeper in the room. He ignored the fact that he was in the presence of a pure-blood heir, The Malfoy heir to be precise.

"Tell me." Draco repeated.

Leaning back, he was getting a little annoyed at his persistence. "Tell you what?"

"Where you've been?" Emitting a frustrating sigh, Draco stood from seat.

Mortimer remained in his spot as he refused to meet his grey eyes. There was a hint of infuriation peeking from his brows the more his cousin spoke. What business did he have asking questions? None, none what's so ever. The spoiled brat knew nothing and yet decided best to ask. Did he not know what he's been through these past few years? The torture he had endured on a daily basis? The type of person he had to deal with his whole life?

Thinking back now, mortimer couldn't believe how people can be so ignorant at times. Signs for help that were often ignored. Hints that not everything was alright in the home - answered with turning heads. No matter how hard he tried, mortimer could never escape the wretched shack he was forced to live in.

What hurt the most was that everyone in the neighborhood knew. Knew what went on in the home of Merriam Porton. A religious fanatic whose beliefs made other church-goers look more like a school children.

His Nana wasn't exactly subtle either. Nor was she discreet. Not when it came to her speech and actions, especially towards mortimer. Even in public, nana would always find something wrong him. Mortimer was either being too quiet that warranted suspicion, or he was too rigid he'd be accused of being insolent.

Regardless, there were times when he had hoped someone would come to his rescue. But no one ever did. Leaving him to his own doom. Mortimer could only endure so much. That is until he snapped.

Clenching his fists tightly, he slowly turned his head to meet Draco's gaze. Looking up, his dark orbs clashed against silver ones. With enough concentration, Mortimer had somehow sensed poor sweet Draco's emotions. A mixture could be felt inside the blonde's head, from nervousness, and from what felt like fear. To feeling sullied as his cousin's eyes widened at the unexpected intrusion.

"Wha- What are you do-doing?" Draco nearly shouted as he tried averting the intense stare mortimer was emitting.

Mortimer didn't say anything. Instead, he merely focused his attention on the varied emotions.

Gripping as though he was holding a fishing rod, the firm grasp, at which he held, was one he wasn't willing to let go. Mortimer couldn't explain it. This strange sensation of power, an inkling of dominance that trickled deep in his bones. Leverage pouring in his head, he wasn't sure whether he'd be able to let go.

It felt good.

Better than good, it felt great.

The fear in his cousin's eyes as his grey orbs stared in panic and confusion.

Mortimer wanted to feel more.

But before mortimer could further his goal, the doors flew open that revealed three adults, one of which happened to be a woman.

In that moment, Mortimer quickly turned his head, breaking the hold he had over his cousin. Draco winced once he broke eye contact. Choosing to stay quiet, he looked over to find his parents.

The three adults soon made their towards the small children. Holding neutral expressions they didn't utter a word until they were a mere few feet away.

Mortimer's heart raced inside, gazing at his aunt for the first time. Narcissa Malfoy. A beautiful blonde with blue eyes, one's that stared right back at him – dressed with such elegance. She reminded him of those story book princesses.

Her features were all but warm that it made him feel fuzzy inside.

Even though she has yet to speak, mortimer could tell she had a soft voice, almost angelic. The way she instantly smiled once her sights caught him, mortimer felt welcomed.

Forgetting who he was for a brief second, his thoughts were interrupted.

"I see you've already met your cousin Draco." Said the other unknown voice. It was a man Mortimer assumed to be Draco's father; the looks gave it away.

Blinking a few times, mortimer stood up from where he was resting. "Y-Yes."

It was second instinct. He remembers Nana's lessons. He straighten himself up and introduced himself like he was supposed to. "I'm Mortimer - um uh - Mortimer Black."

"My my such manners." The man - or his uncle said dryly before giving him a nod. "Lucius Malfoy."

There was a slight pause. "It's wonderful to meet you at long last. You may call me Aunt Cissy if you prefer. I've been rather adamant on your arrival." She spoke softly, appearing to be containing her excitement.

Mortimer nearly recoiled as Narcissa took further steps into approaching him.

When she did, soft hands made contact to his small sapless cheeks. Pushing and caressing his head. Narcissa took in his features – his thick dark hair that was jumbled in various directions, the sooty color of eyes that stared counter to her bright ones. Unbeknown to him, she was searching a resemblance towards the elder sister.

With a small frown, there was a sense of confusion weighing down – not what she was expected. It left hik feeling insecure.

"You are very handsome." She commented with a warm smile.

Slight discomfort slips down from his back. He wasn't use to this kind of gesture. Mortimer is at a loss - unsure as how to react. His was aunt appeared to be very affectionate when it came to her family that it left him feeling out of place; an outsider of their world.

Mortimer did not to be rude but found no way to shake her off. It was all very alien to him. However, Severus must have sensed this as well because the boy soon heard the professor speak on his behalf.

"Might I suggest you give him time to adjust? After all, this is his first time meeting young Draco and the rest of the family. You wouldn't want to overwhelm the poor boy." Snape advised.

Casting a thankful expression, mortimer sighed in relief when her hands drew away.

Glancing at his wife, Lucius agreed. "Severus is right dear, he's new to our ways - I mean look at what he is wearing. Let's not strain him further, not today at least."

"Oh- alright." Narcissa yielded. Turning over to the potions master. "Severus, thank you for bringing him back home. Truly, I am grateful."

"As we all are. Now dear wife, why don't you take the children while I see our friend off."

Heeding his words, she gave a slight nod and took both of the boys. "Come Mortimer, let's get you situated and into a more suitable attire."

Of course, mortimer had no idea what that meant and seeing as how this may very well be the last time he'll see Severus, "Thank you again Professor." Mortimer inserted quickly before leaving.

As they begin making their way out of the room, mortimer could faintly hear Lucius telling Severus. "...truly the Dark Lord's heir?"

It was the last thing he was able to hear when his aunt spoke out, bringing back his attention. "Draco wash up, supper will be ready shortly."

"But mother... " Draco began to whine.

"Your cousin is not going anywhere. You'll see him shortly, now go on." Gesturing to her son, he obeyed and went off.

Her eyes wander down on mortimer. "Walk with me nephew. Tell me about yourself."

Mortimer stared down onto the hard marbled floor. "Li-Like what?"

His Aunt moved closer so they could both walk alongside each other. She was aware of his nervousness and encouraged him to speak freely. "Please Mortimer I know this must be very difficult for you. But know that I am willing to do anything to make you feel more welcomed. Do not be afraid. We are family. As family we must help each other in situations such as these. If you are worried you might offend me, don't be. I want you to be honest, in turn, I promise I will do the same."

The sound of their continuous footsteps reflected throughout the hallway. Mortimer was once again fazed with her actions. Opposite of what he was expecting from Narcissa. From what he's heard, mortimer expected someone like his birth mother, cold, violent, crazy… His aunt was warmer and kind, unlike his cousin, it was too early to judge based on a few exchanges that mortimer decided to keep quiet.

Instead, he kept looking down, only to then to meet his aunt's warm gaze. Mortimer's thoughts were equally calm as hers as he understood her intentions. "Ok."

Mortimer's voice started in a somber, yet straight tone. "I – Well, I enjoy reading…"

"Wonderful! You know we have an excellent arrangement of books in our library. When you're settled, I'm sure Draco will help you pick out one you will find agreeable. But please, continue." Narcissa clasped her hands together as she offered him a smile.

Walking pass a few pillars, Mortimer scratched his temple in frustration. Not against his aunt but at himself. The question Narcissa had proposed was one he could not fully answer because in truth, he had no answer.

Realising he had no other hobbies except reading, he felt a sense of regret. Never really having to fully experience his childhood like the others. The only thing that allowed him to escape was to hold onto a hard cover. Even then, it was never enough as Nana would remove anything that didn't involve the lord's gospel.

He was embarrassed.

"I-I don't have many interest…" He muttered when looking away.

"Is that so?" Lifting a brow, she began eying him curiously.

"Yeah- I might have been too focused on my –" A short pause. "studies that I forgot I was still a kid." Mortimer lied along with a fake smile.

"Oh dear." She laughed lightly. "You must be very bright then; a good trait to carry for anyone in our family. I'm sure you will do well once the term starts and hopefully some of your enthusiasm will rub on Draco – oh, he can be a handful at times."

Mortimer peered at his aunt. His face was still covered in embarrassment. Clearing his throat, he regained control of his thoughts and changed the subject. "Right." He asked as he avoided her gaze. "How long have you've known about me – If you don't mind me asking."

This time his aunt's eyes widen with excitement. Nodding her head, she gave him a half-smile while she told. "My husband and I were told a week before you arrival – That another living member existed among us. To my complete shock when Severus had told us you were none other than Bella's child; I was horrified. Horrified to know you were sent to live with some low life muggle." Shaking her head in disgust. "I wanted to pull you out right then and there. Severus however warned me about the repercussions that might occur should I bring attention to the fact that your mother… had given birth to you."

Slowly, she began to caress the stroking back the small hairs on his face. "I admit, I am rather relieved to have you here. Must have been horrible to live with miscreants. I could never imagine stepping foot in one those homes."

Mortimer hadn't bother to respond. While her appearance radiated in warmness, her behavior was disheartening. His Aunt took a good look at him and smiled. "Worry not my dear nephew, you're finally home."

Home…

A word mortimer has heard but had very little understanding of the meaning. What did it mean to have a home? Living with Nana certainly wasn't a home and the institution – though a nice change, was only temporary.

"Enough of my rambling, I'm sure you could use a decent meal after a big day." Turning her head, "Levi!" Narcissa called out and glanced back at mortimer. "We can talk more once we get you settled."

Mortimer nearly fell back at the clap of the unknown presence. He bowled over when a strange elf-like creature popped itself in front of his eyes.

A very timid voice responded. "Yes Mistress Malfoy?"

"Take Mortimer to his new quarters and have him ready for dinner." She voiced firmly.

"Yes Mistress Malfoy." The shrilly little creature said.

Looking at mortimer now, it – she? He? Mortimer couldn't tell, tried to get him to follow but to no avail. He was simply too confused and a little frightened to move. "Follow Levi." The small creature gestured it's arm.

Narcissa noticed his reluctance and gave off a small laugh. "Don't be afraid dear, Levi is merely a house-elf. A servant. She'll take you to your room." She reassured.

Immense of unpleasant sensations, he forgot that he was no longer part of the muggle world. Still, it didn't stop him from feeling cramped on the inside. "Uh - right sorry. I'm surprised is all." He mumbled and gave a fake smile.

"That's quite alright. I'll see you shortly."

Disappearing into the passageway, Mortimer listened to the squeaky voice behind him.

The elf named Levi was waiting. "Follow Levi please." She repeated.

It was too strange of a sight that he had to pinch himself. Trailing behind Levi, he was given the impression that he should not question every single little thing but to go along with it. Honestly, it was hard not to. Really? Wizards, Witches, and Elves? All living together under one roof. It sounded absurd! What's next? Friendly giants?

He rolled his eyes at that. Right and I can talk to animals...

Looking from top to bottom. Mortimer was curious to know about the home. He wondered if anyone's ever been lost in these hallways. There seemed to be no bounds to the wealth of this family and truthfully, it was unnerving.

Some would disagree undoubtedly. But to mortimer, he has been accustomed to a certain lifestyle that it became a sort of habit to expect the lowest of qualities. Being placed in a psychiatric ward didn't help his mind either.

Adapted to timetables and strict rulings, his body was already displaying waves of heaviness. It was past hospital curfew, he retained. Normally at this time, he'd be in bed. At least not before he's taken his medications. A treatment of some kind, to stop the nightmares from reappearing. And to be honest, none of those drugs ever worked.

But that wasn't important right now. Point being, it became an oddity, almost foreign to him to be placed in a new habitat.

Continuing his walk, they made a few turns. Taking them nearly a few minutes to finally reach the area.

The room appeared old-fashion for his tastes but couldn't find a reason to complain.

There was a four poster bed with velvet curtains; his new clothing were already set firmly on his bedside. Basic furniture such as a large dresser, dark walnut desk with a matching chair and a normal nightstand.

Surprisingly there was another door not far, which he assumes was a bathroom. What was a nice graze from his previous residence was an outlet where he could see outside the manor; mostly consisted of unexplored forestlands.

"Levi needs young master to bathe before supper." The elf said, bringing in fresh clean towels.

Raising his brow, he warily asked. "You're not going to watch me, are you?"

Tilting her head, innocently. "Will you require Levi for assistance?"

"No."

"Then Levi shall leave and come back." A pop! And she was gone, leaving mortimer alone in the room.

With no further interruptions, he quickly made use of the bathroom. Moments went by as he subsequently immersed himself in the warmth of the bath. He made sure to scrub down to the core; it's been way too long since he's had a proper shower.

After he finished, Mortimer waited for Levi. He was already dressed in a pair of recently bought grey robes when the shy elf reappear in the middle of the room. This time however, it didn't take them long to reach the dinning room, only a little down the hall before arriving.

"There you are." Mortimer caught an eagerly voice calling to him.

Looking to his right, he was not surprised to see the presence of Draco waiting for him by the entrance.

"I see you've finally got rid of those filthy rags you were wearing earlier." He snickers, noting the small blush forming on mortimer's face. "Now your starting to look like a true pure-blood."

Deep within, mortimer shuddered at his behavior. The circulation on blood beliefs slowly irritated the boy. Whether he was or not didn't matter to mortimer. However, it was apparent that the Malfoy's world revolved around the fact that they were purest of wizards.

Mortimer brushed it off, glancing at a rather wide dinner table.

Taking it upon himself, he seated himself quietly. Weirdly enough, draco begins to follow his example.

Before anyone knew, dinner was already served. With both Lucius and Narcissa already settled themselves, the two boys were greeted warmly by the wife.

A roasted dinner, Mortimer quietly ate as the two adults began chatting away about their own businesses. Lucius showing his frustrations against something called the Ministry of Magic; unfamiliar to Mortimer. His aunt was already talking about setting up a function for the holidays. And his cousin was hinting at a type of broomstick he's been wanting.

Throughout the time, mortimer remained silent. A custom. Nana never allowed talking at the dinner table. The only talking that ever went on was one for prayers.

"Mortimer dear, you've been fairly quiet. Is something wrong with your meal?" Asked his aunt.

Quickly, he shook his head. "No. Everything is perfect." An artificial smile played on his face.

"Severus tells me you've been living amongst muggles." Lucius interrupted, a distant but observing gazed was targeted to him. "Is it true?"

Playing it off, he begins poking and moving around the garnish. Mortimer was not ready to have this discussion. But that didn't seem to be important; not to them.

From the looks he was acquiring from the dinner table, most were heavily awaiting for his answer.

"Yes it is." He answered, resisting the urge to clench his teeth shut.

Draco's prying eyes traveled to mortimer. "Tell me more. Where were you living? Why were you there?" It sounded more like a command than question.

Narcissa chimed in. "Yes – We're very curious as to how you ended up in their possession. It could not have been voluntarily. Bella wouldn't do that..." Lowering her eyes, she sounded almost hurt by her sister's resistance.

"Understand nephew, Narcissa is a little stirred up from the news. As you've already been informed, Bellatrix is unable to answer any of our questions. And you, mortimer, are the only one who can fill in the gap. We would very much enjoy getting to know you better." Lucius words approached him, careful and obtrude.

Ultimately, mortimer decided play along until the day leaves for the term. Clearing his throat. "There's nothing to say. I've been living with an elderly woman I thought was my grandmother..." He trailed off, invoking under dumbledore's discretion. "She died... and I've been alone ever since."

They paused while mortimer's cheeks became coral with self-consciousness. Their pity looks, along with Lucius smug cast leaves mortimer feeling lunkheaded. A dolt for showing vulnerability.

"This woman..." Narcissa began. "Was she good to you?"

Lucius seemed to know, though decided to keep it to himself. A questionable look, mortimer was unsure whether the older Malfoy would call him out on his answer if he were to make up a quick lie.

Out of indignity, mortimer was willing to risk it. "Y-Yes. She was very... devoted in teaching me the proper ways." He responded quietly only to then clamp his lips down.

"That's wonderful to hear. Her passing must have been unfortunate for you." Narcissa's compassionate smile made it known that she was oblivious.

"Even more awful, to be left alone. With no one to care for – Thankfully you're here; where you belong, amongst your family." Sounding relieved, Narcissa exchanged a glance with her husband.

"Yes – Of course, you're always welcome here nephew. I'd wager that draco is just as excited as having you here. Isn't that right?" Peering at the young boy. "You have to admit though, it certainly does explain as to why Bellatrix disappeared on us, for the time that she did."

Disappeared? Mortimer questioned.

"Yes. I can teach you everything about being a true wizard." Draco beamed in pride.

"A good idea draco. It will give you two the time to get to really know each other better. And soon, you'll both be heading out to Hogwarts in a few weeks." Narcissa's voice was small; almost sad even.

Lucius scoffed at that but Narcissa stopped him from continuing down the path. "Not now Lucius."

Wrinkling his nose when the food on the table suddenly disappeared, there was an uncertainty feeling picking on his head. I don't think I'll ever get use to that. It's there that seconds later, desert had been served.

"Maybe I can show you how to fly on a broomstick." Consuming the sweet course, draco began conversing with him.

Mortimer, for the most part, hummed in response, nodding his head every now and then to keep the charade going.

Darting his eyes, he noticed that the elder Malfoy was observing him. It became frequent that he had to look around the dinning room – perhaps it was in his head.

Mortimer could see Lucius' attentive gaze. He figured the sense of intrigue and suspicion. Might be due to the fact that none of it makes any sense. Mortimer always believed he was no one special. The odd looks he was receiving from Lucius made it seem that it was no longer the case. Looking as though he was searching for something. Mortimer looked away, playing with his dessert he no longer found it appetizing.

Perhaps an alikeness towards his master – his father. It was disappointing. To think, his sole reason for being here today was because his father demanded it. Or maybe because Narcissa felt she owed the older sister. After years of imprisonment, who knows what has become of her sister.

Excusing himself from the table, mortimer arose from his seat. "I'm tired. Thank you both for today. It means so much to finally meet you both." Turning on a charming smile.

Narcissa repaid the gesture greatly and Lucius merely gave a nod in acceptence.

Bidding Draco a good evening, he left his relatives behind. This time though, he didn't need the help of Levi or anyone to find his room.

Reaching his quarters, he quietly undressed and laid back in comfort of his new bed. A few minutes later, thoughts of today's exiciting events filled his head. One that left him exhausted. Aunt Narcissa came across as a loving mother and wife, dedicated to only her family. His cousin Draco seemed to be a boy who has been given everything he's ever wanted; spoiled. Then there was Lucius, on one hand, the depiction of apprehensive came to mind. On the other, was only polite out of the sake for his wife.

This was his first night. So he couldn't really cast judgement when he's only met them. Time can only tell and tomorrow would prove it.

Mortimer waited until he fell unconcious.

Leaving a drained out mortimer to finally rest.