Orion leaned over his desk more deeply, his dark brows furrowed with concentration.
His chin nearly touched the ancient parchment as his ravenous eyes ate the tantalizing information offered by the priceless treasure.
His dear father had managedsomehowto get his hands on the invaluable original manuscript of Merwyn The Malicious, a book that would cause immeasurable trouble if it fell into the wrong hands.
Arcturus was aware that Orion was a gifted Spell Crafter, a talent he helped him acuminate.
Unlike many slothful Pureblood Heirs, Orion wasn't one to remain inactive while he waited for the next Wizengamot session.
Politics weren't the only thing that filled his time, he intended to have something for himself, a life separate from what he offered to the outer world and Spell Crafting was the subject that had always fascinated him, notwithstanding his great understanding and skill in magical theory allowing him to invent spells.
Learning from the best was the first step to achieving his dream and thanks to the Black vaults filled to the brim with gold, not to mention their connections even in the shadiest parts of London, Arcturus was able to provide him with the best references, be it Herpo The Fool's Original Rituals, Helexia and Syna Hyslop's Doubling Charm Incantation Manuscript and now, Merwyn The Malicious' full collection of deadly curses and hexes.
He was always attracted to the more obscure spells, the ones that would ensure the enemy's demise at once.
However, after Hespera's arrival, he became more intent to sharpen his talent and work harder to protect what he held dear,his family.
Orion scratched his chin and paused, concentrating on a difficult incantation.
Automatically, he flicked his faithful Ebony and Grim Heartstring wand.
It has come as a surprise when a few months ago his original wand, the one he purchased from Master Wandmaker Gruffydd Ollivander after he received his Hogwarts letter, wouldn't work for him anymore.
His father had taken him to the main Black vault, where all wands of past family members were safeguarded.
Orion had tried at least seven different wands until he found the one that answered his magic's call.
The wand belonged to his great ancestor Licorus Black, the one who enchanted the fabled Family Tapestry and whose journals were filled with unravelled mysteries.
He had been stunned when he learned about the core, more so when the beast that lived inside him started showing itself.
Orion straightened his back and followed the wand movements described in the text.
He didn't utter the words. He did not intend to try the spell, not something that lethal inside his home, all he needed was to assimilate the wand motion scrupulously.
However, a groan left his lips the moment the wards apprised him of the new arrival.
Carefully, he arranged the collection of manuscripts he was studying and leaned his head against his chair.
He didn't have to wait for long. He risked a glance at the closed door and wasn't disappointed when his cousin didn't even knock and strode in.
"Good evening to you too. You do know that our family is recognized for its members' eloquence and quintessential manners, right my dear cousin?"
Alphard half sat on the edge of the desk and waved his hand nonchalantly. "I know that I don't need to act all stodgy in your presence, my future Lord."
His piercing eyes noticed the resources dispersed all over the desk and he lifted an eyebrow, studying his face attentively. "Were you doing another research?"
''Yes, I was. I can't get to grips with the spell I'm designing and I needed to revisit Merwyn The Malicious' works," came his cool reply.
Alphard faked a shudder. "I can't understand how you can stomach reading such dreadful information. I know that we're Dark, but Merwyn…"
When Orion's upper lip lifted sardonically, Alphard's eyes flared. "Merlin's Mercy! Don't tell me it's related to your fiancée and what transpired a few days ago in the Ministry."
"Once again, you demonstrate why you are a Black and my favourite cousin at that," Orion drawled, caressing the smooth wood of his wand and savouring the wild magic drifting from the core.
"But…" Alphard sighed. "I noticed how she stood up to Dumbledore and how Father wasn't pleased with that. Do you think that we have an impending fight?"
"I know that we'll need to fight. I can't give you the details though, nor can I specify if it's going to be solely political or will escalate to a full battle. All that I know is that I have to be ready at all times."
He hated to hide things from Alphard, he was his most trusted friend, his cousin and his brother, but he couldn't voice what was besetting him and making him not get a wink of sleep.
His mind was still going through what happened in Hespera's room a few days ago, not able to believe his audacity.
He had been overwhelmed with a need so strong to lay claim to her, to assuage his deep fear of losing what he gained not long ago.
He didn't want to imagine his Mother's reaction if she learned of his philistine behaviour, not to mention his sister.
Lucretia wouldn't stop teasing him with her ribald comments, and he knew how insistent she was.
He was grateful for his Aunt Lycoris' unforeseen visit. At least, she kept all the witches of the house busy with the tales of her adventures.
He wasn't sure what prompted her visit, didn't know if he should suspect a secret letter from his Uncle Regulus, but he was pleased nevertheless.
He was looking forward to what she would teach Hespera knowing that she took a liking to her since their first meeting.
"Orion…Orion!" Alphard threw a light Tickling Charm and when he glared at him, he lowered his wand.
"Your mind is miles away, is it because of the awe-inspiring Lady Peverell?" Alphard snickered and ducked when Orion lifted his hand lazily, tossing a careless jinx.
Alphard surprisingly evaded his spell and shook his head with mirth. "Sensitive, aren't we?"
"I don't know what you're talking about my annoying cousin," Orion's face remained impassive.
"Is that so? You know, I met Hespera downstairs and I noticed how…flusteredshe became as soon as I inquired about your relationship. I want to make sure that everything is going well. Of course, you know that I care about you, even though your manners are unsatisfactory." Alphard grinned briefly.
Orion smirked. "And I know that you didn't. I am Heir Black; the wards do always tell me the location of every soul living under this roof. Hespera is in the Ritual Room with Mother and Aunt Lycoris. They're introducing her to the Sacred Days practices. The Winter Solstice is approaching and she needs to be ready, it will be her introduction to our allies and failure is not an option."
Alphard groaned. "Won't you let me win for once, you greedy prat."
"You already know the answer to that," Orion summoned the Firewhiskey decanter and offered a snifter to his cousin.
They drank leisurely, taking joy in the slight burn that followed the first swallow.
Orion's light-grey eyes appeared silver as he gave his cousin a level gaze. "I'm wondering myself what's going on Alph. I'm noticing the drastic changes taking place and I'm not sure if I'll be able to keep up. The family is once again reassembling. Father is intent on fighting Pollux for the first time. My fiancée is Lady Peverell who needed one appearance to forge numerous alliances and create a horde of enemies. All of this is beyond my ability to understand, not to mention the strange feelings awakening in my heart," Orion didn't hesitate as words seeped from his lips. It was a rare occasion when he confided in anyone—but if there was one man he trusted, it was Alphard.
His cousin's mouth tightened with a suppressed smile. Be that as it may, Orion noticed it.
"I used to tell you that I'll be praying in Stonehenge for a miracle and I believe that Mother Magic accepted my oblation, you know how precious the Black blood is my friend."
"You're not helping here, Alph," Orion murmured flatly.
"Of course, I'll help. As a matter of fact, there is a reason behind my unprompted visit."
Alphard, who had always been fond of solving others' problems, seemed annoyed and he got a sudden hunch of what had elicited his visit.
Orion sipped more Firewhiskey and then swirled the liquid in the snifter, regarding it with untoward interest.
''Does it concern your father? I know that he won't remain idle after the insult he received," he asked.
Alphard registered the statement with a blink of surprise, and then regarded him speculatively, raising his brows in mock horror. ''Are you a Seer as well? It would be too much, even for the amazing Heir Black.''
When Orion scoffed, he gave an irritable shrug, unintentionally showing his frustration. "He's plotting something with some of his longtime friends. Two days ago, he visited the Nott Estate with Cygnus. The bastard won't say a thing, but I know that it pertains you, your father and Hespera," he offered sourly.
The conversation drifted from light and enjoyable to tense and serious all of a sudden.
Orion straightened and barely suppressed the growl that wanted to leave his throat. "Is he conspiring to hurt Father or Hespera?"
Alphard frowned. "I'm not sure. But we both know that many Dark families were not pleased with the new balance your fiancée's appearance forced. Misery loves company, they might have spent the afternoon lamenting and cursing the Peverells, or…"
"Or they are under the illusion that we won't be ready for whatever devious plans they're setting. They're an unscrupulous lot, a disgrace to their families' names," his lips quirked.
He smiled wryly and dismissed his cousin's warning with a motion of his hand, enjoying Alphard's widening eyes, "But they will never be ready for us. Did you know that Aunt Lycoris is back? It won't be long beforeher mentorfollows and you know what that entails."
Alphard gasped soundlessly. "My Merlin…You mean?"
Orion grinned cheerfully, gazing at his protruding claws; an occurrence that seemed to increase with his simmering rage. "Yessheis. Pollux, Nott and their ilk are no match for us. One of my Father's informants was here yesterday and reported the news. You know how Father is; I don't feel shame to callspyinghis favourite pastime."
Alphard snorted. "Your father is an opponent I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy."
Then, on a separate note, he raked a hand through his ebony locks." And I'd better perfect my new potion 'llbe asking about my progress and I can't disappoint her."
Orion smiled smugly at the thought. "You'd better not disappointher. You know howsheis."
Hespera stared in bemusement at the armloads of richly hued silks and velvets that were brought forth.
"Do I need all this?"
Lycoris lifted a well-shaped eyebrow and didn't deem her question worthy of an answer.
Lucretia snorted and Hespera glared at her.
Lycoris had arranged for a trip to her beloved cousin's boutique, Lady Charis Black Crouch, the most exclusive dressmaker in Diagon Alley and further made it clear that Hespera was to allow her complete authority that, until she learned all there was to know about the fine, intricate art of dressing to impress.
According to Lycoris, Britain's Pureblood society's fashion Diva, her attires weren't just clothes.
As Lady Peverell and the future Lady Black, she had to be spruced up to an elaborate extent.
She had to crush any competition, were her exact words.
Being someone who grew up with nothing, except the rags she received from Petunia, Hespera was not used to such luxury.
Even after she learned of her parents' wealth and the fortune they left for her, she never got the chance to indulge and enjoy a lengthy shopping trip in London.
Privately, she suspected that Lycoris and Lucretia were far from impressed by her fashion sense.
However, it was lack of experience, not taste, which had always determined her wardrobe.
Now Hespera found herself in the famed set of rooms in 'Charis' Choice', lined with gilded, enchanted mirrors and elegant light grey brocade.
There was an intimidating, regal ambience at the boutique. Even the pleasant smile of the owner did little to calm her trepidation.
The thought of how unaccustomed she was to such extravagance was unnerving, but Hespera doggedly ignored the nagging worry.
She was surprised when the owner introduced herself as Lady Charis Black Crouch.
She learned that after she finished her schooling, she decided to follow her passion and spent a year in Paris apprenticing under the famous Madame Coraline, the most renowned dressmaker in the continent according to both Lycoris and Lucretia.
When she received a betrothal proposal from Lord Caspar Crouch, she insisted that she would accept only under the condition that she was not to be precluded from starting her own business.
Casper, who had been bewitched by the charismatic daughter of House Black, agreed at once and they bonded a few months later.
Charis was close friends with Dorea and Charlus. She claimed that she was the one to unite the two stubborn fouls.
Lycoris nudged her, halting her musings and Charis smiled. "I'm so glad that Orion escaped Walburga's clutches. She's a disgrace to her name, not to mention, too rude for my liking."
"She doesn't pay for whatever she purchases from your boutique too, Charis," Lucretia offered shamelessly.
"There's that too. This is business, not a charity." Charis murmured with indignation.
"Enough with your blabbering. Hespera needs an astounding outfit for the Winter Solstice, so start working at once. Melania and Euphemia will stitch the protective Runes later," Lycoris snapped.
Charis curtsied dramatically. "As you wish, My Lady."
Hespera grinned, that until Charis dragged her to an adjoining room outfitted with delicate furniture, fine curtains, and mirrors even more massive than the ones in the front rooms.
''Every piece is one of a kind. I never do the same model twice," Charis said, pride filling her voice.
Deftly, she turned her around and flicked her wand.
"I design everything according to the feeling of my clients' magic. Do I have your permission to start?"
Hespera was startled at first until she remembered Melania's lessons.
As Lady Peverell, she ranked higher than any witch in Magical Britain.
Magic wassacredand no one was allowed to get a reading on hers without her voiced permission. She was entitled to decree a Blood Feud if she felt violated at any time.
Hespera nodded and Charis started moving her wand according to a precise pattern.
Her eyes barely widened, before she regained her composure.
"Well…dark colours are more suitable for you, Black maybe. However, I see some white in your aura. Do you love the color?"
She delivered her question carelessly, however, Hespera noticed how eager she was to hear her answer.
"I love white. It reminds me of….peace," she breathed.
Her memories took her to the white void where she met Death and started this new journey.
"White befits you, Mistress,"her troublesome friend whispered and she stiffened.
"Are you alright?" Charis wondered, scrutinizing the different nuances of her expression.
"Yes. I…"
"The formal Peverell colours are Black and white, so it's not surprising. Black for death and white for life and new beginnings. The legends we learned say that death is not the end; it's just the start of a new life. The Peverells were renowned to embody both; they'redeathto their enemies andlifeto those they take under their wings."
"I love this woman. She was attentive to her history lessons," Death gushed happily. "But I prefer death at any given moment. There are many unworthy fools still roaming the land and I need to show them that they can never escape me. I am the beginning and I am the end."
"You're also a pompous prat," Hespera sent mentally.
"Why, thank you Hespera," she heard his sigh as if he was standing there, "I guess that my minions are not taking their job seriously. Maybe I need to make an example of some of them. I have a particular name in mind."
"And I don't need to know. Please, I don't want to seem like a lunatic." She almost begged, noticing Charis' narrowed eyes.
Death gasped dramatically. "And here I was taking care of you. You wound me Hespera. Until we meet again."
Hespera exhaled when his annoying voice disappeared. The bastard was growing on her and she was infuriated by her heart's treachery.
She swore that she heard a mocking chuckle, but didn't get the time to react for Lycoris drawled darkly from the other room. "Well, well, what do we have here? I can't say that I missed you, Walburga."
Hespera stiffened and closed her eyes.
Her magic rebelled against the confinement of her skin, calling for Sirius abuser's blood, but she grappled with her infamous Potter temper.
She wasn't that girl anymore, that brash, careless Gryffindor Dumbledore shaped according to his agenda.
She was the Mistress of Death, and she would act accordingly.
All Credits Go To" NinaMaya-AO3