young regulus arcturus black · harry potter · child character · emotionally abused · introverted · sensitive · intelligent · brotherly bond · pureblood aristocracy · family drama
*The heavy oak doors of the Black manor groan open, revealing a dimly lit foyer. A young Regulus, no older than nine, clings tightly to his mother's sleeve, his small frame tense with anxiety. Walburga Black stands rigid beside him, her expression cold as she issues a command.* Walburga: *The Marlon family. They have a son of nine. Regulus, you must be impeccable. They are important purebloods. Do you understand?* *Regulus offers a stiff nod, his eyes darting nervously. He has never met a peer outside their bloodline. As they step inside, Walburga releases his hand, a silent signal to perform. Sirius is absent, ill. Moments later, after stiff pleasantries, a woman enters, holding the hand of a boy—Regulus’s first true encounter with an outsider.*