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Chapter Text

“He’s still trapped there, and he will remain trapped there until he has completed his mission.”

“You mean that he’s trapped with those things for eternity?”

“Correct. He still has unfinished business in the mortal realm and an ancient magic has tethered him there until his mission is complete.”

“Why are you telling me all of this?”

“Because you are the only one who can help him. You are the only one he would allow to help him.”

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

All Regulus consciously knew was that he was cold. So cold. It felt as if he had been stuck in the freezing cold for an eternity. He found it ironic that even when dead, he was still seemingly stuck in his watery coffin. Wasn’t his soul supposed to transcend or something? He had never been a firm believer in any sort of afterlife but surely there was supposed to be something.

Instead, he had been stuck. Frozen. Surrounded by the undead for what seemed like an eternity. He didn’t have to be alive to know that it was the inferi that still clung onto whatever part of his soul was stuck there.

He had been so convinced that he had felt the brunt of the cold the water had to offer but even now he could feel the cold seeping through his bones. His eyes were too heavy to try and open, not that he would try. What would be the point? It wouldn’t tell him anything he didn’t already know. He was dead. He had felt his body spasm as it searched for some sort of air as he was dragged deeper into the abyss. He had felt both his vision and brain grow fuzzier. He had allowed himself to finally close his eyes in defeat, giving in to the parts of himself that were begging for an end.

He had even listened as his own heartbeat slowed down and eventually stopped. He was dead. And yet, he was still stuck in the same stupid cave.

How much time had passed? Had Kreacher destroyed the horcrux yet? Had Tom Riddle been defeated? Was the war finally over? Was Sirius safe and alive? Was James? Did either of them know what he had done to end the war? Did they still think that he was a loyal Death Eater?

The same questions swirled around his thoughts constantly, like an endless cycle. Not even death gave him a reprieve from his thoughts. He was stuck, cold and alone, having the same questions but never any answers. Every time he had the same realisation that he would never get any answers. Instead, he was left at the mercy of his own thoughts, seemingly stuck in the endless cycle of uncertainty.

Except- now he felt something warm on his arm. Or what must be his… spirits arm? Whatever it was, the warmth was a welcome comfort. Perhaps someone or something was taking pity on him? Allowing him a short moment of comfort before dooming him back to his watery tomb.

His eyes were still heavy, like they always were. But the warmth brought with it a whooshing in his ears and a weight across his entire being. It weirdly enough felt as if his whole body was congested, and he had a strong urge to cough. Well, that was new.

Along with the new feeling of congestion, he felt something hard slamming into his chest with each hit on his chest increasing his urge to cough. It was… painful? Something akin to annoyance ran through his body. Was his water-filled tomb not enough of a punishment that now he had to deal with an incessant slamming against his chest?

“-to me. Please, Regulus. I need you to open your eyes for me.” A soft, familiar voice rang through his ears which was swiftly followed by another slam into his chest. The voice sounded eerily similar to James’. But that couldn’t be because if James was trying to talk to him then that meant that James was dead, and Regulus refused to believe that.

The warmth that was on his arm instead moved to his cheek and across his cheekbone. “I know that you’ve been resting for a while, but I need you to open your eyes for me now.” The voice continued and Regulus found himself wishing that it would stop sounding like James. “Please, love. Come back to me now.”

Regulus really needed to cough.

It took one more hard slam on his chest before he was awarded with the small mercy of being able to cough, so he did. He could feel himself shooting up from his spot where he was apparently… laid? A split second later, a violent cough ripped itself from his throat along with a lungful of water.

“That’s it, love.” The voice continued as the warmth had once again shifted away from his cheek and landed on his back, seemingly rubbing into his tense muscles as he continued coughing up whatever water had been stuck inside him ever since he was dragged into that blasted lake.

Regulus’ head was still fuzzy, and his eyes were still heavy, but he still proceeded to force his eyes open. He wasn’t simply trapped in the water anymore. What was happening?  

As his eyes drew into focus, he noticed that he was still in the same cave he had been in when he died. Was that supposed to be some sort of sick joke? Because it was not funny.

The emotion that was overriding his entire body was confusion as his eyes continued to glance around the familiar cave. It wasn’t until his eyes landed on a pair of familiar hazel ones that he felt his heart drop and tears build up in his eyes before he could stop them.

“James?” He whispered hoarsely, wincing as he felt the dryness in his throat. The same dryness that had been caused by that infuriating potion he had to drink.  

“It’s me, love.” James replied softly, smiling softly towards Regulus and kept his hand firmly remained on Regulus’ back.

Alarmingly, Regulus felt the tears that had been building up in his eyes finally break over the top of his eyelids and roll down his cheeks. “No.” He denied instantly, quickly shaking his head and tried to push James away from him. “No. You can’t be dead too.” He continued, wrapping his arms around his stomach to try and soothe himself as the tears continued to fall. “You need to get back to life, right now.” He demanded, forcing himself to ignore the scratchiness of his voice. “I didn’t risk everything to get that fucking horcrux for you to die. I didn’t- I won’t do this. You must go back, now.”

James’ eyes seemed to soften as he watched Regulus with an unreadable expression, slowly shifting closer to the male and firmly wrapped his arms around him. He brought Regulus closer until he practically collapsed against his chest, a soft sob tearing itself from the younger’s lips.

“You’re not dead, Regulus. You’ve been stuck down there for quite a while, but you’re not dead.” James explained softly, carefully running his fingers through Regulus’ damp curls.

Regulus didn’t reply, instead another sob ripped itself from his throat. A sob filled with relief. If he was actually alive then that meant that James was still alive. A wave of the same questions he had been trapped with rapidly flowed through his brain, each desperate to be asked first but Regulus settled on just one. He had to know.

“Is the war over? Has he been defeated?” He questioned, hands shakily reaching up to wipe away his tears as he tried to claw back as much of his overwhelming emotions as he could.

A flash of sadness appeared in James’ eyes as he slowly shook his head. “That’s the thing… everyone thinks that it’s over. But it’s not. Some sort of ancient magic kept you tethered to the living world. And that ancient magic will keep you stuck here until you’ve completed whatever your mission is.” James explained slowly, his eyebrows furrowing as he spoke. He still didn’t fully understand the force that was keeping Regulus stuck in some sort of stasis until his “mission” was completed.

Regulus, however, seemed to understand perfectly as his heart dropped and his gaze fell onto his lap with a defeated sigh. “Kreacher must not have been able to destroy the horcrux yet…” He mumbled, more to himself than James.

“I need to get to Grimmauld Place.” He told James after a few seconds of silence. “Can you help me get there? I don’t think I can apparate myself.” Regulus admitted, finally looking at his shaking limbs with a frown.

“Of course I can.” James replied instantly, moving to help Regulus stand properly and carefully guided him back towards the boat. “And Regulus?” He questioned, waiting until Regulus looked at him from his spot perched in the boat. “I am going to help you with whatever mission you’re on. And don’t even think about refusing. I don’t think having some help is going to hurt, especially when you’ve already nearly died.” He stated.

Regulus stared at James for a couple of seconds, a refusal bouncing on his tongue which he had to force down as he saw James’ brows set in determination. There was no way Regulus could ever manage to change James’ mind. He never could when he got that look in his eyes.

Slowly nodding in agreement, Regulus let out a defeated sigh and lightly chewed on his bottom lip. “Alright, Jamie. I would appreciate the help.” He admitted softly, not noticing the familiar nickname fall from his lips as he stared back out across the dark cave, a light frown remaining on his face.

He just had to destroy the locket and then kill Tom Riddle whenever he reappeared. How hard could that possibly be?

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

Landing on the steps of the place Regulus used to call ‘home’, he leaned against James with a soft groan drawing from his lips. Even before his almost-death he had never been a fan of apparating and the familiar rush of nausea wasn’t helping to shift his opinion. If he’d have known for certain that he was going to survive the cave, then perhaps he would have forced himself to apparate more, force his body to get used to the feeling. Instead, he would just have to grow familiar with the feeling now.

James never rushed him, never initiated their movement and waited until Regulus would tell him that he was ready. Before the cave, Regulus knew that he was familiar with rushing around and not giving himself long enough to recover. Whenever the cruciatus curse had been flung his way, he never gave his body long enough to recover. Always in such a rush.

Slowly raising his head, Regulus stared straight ahead at the looming building that seemed even darker than he remembered. He kept expecting his mother to slam the door open and berate him for going missing even though that wasn’t possible- there was a point, just how much time had passed?

“James?” He questioned; voice still raspy from the potion he had drank merlin knows how long ago.

“Yeah?” Came James’ reply a second later, the male shifting to properly look at Regulus with his arm still firmly supporting Regulus’ weight against him.

“How long has it been? I mean- I went into the cave in June 1979. Has much time passed? There was no way to track time when I was under the water and although it felt like an eternity, I’m assuming it’s probably just been a couple of months, right?” Regulus rambled; his tone uncertain as he observed James’ face closely. His eyebrows furrowed slightly when he noticed a look of sadness flash across James’ expression for a couple of seconds before melting away into the same neutral expression he had been using.

“Reg- It’s November 1981. More precisely, it’s the 1^st of November 1981.” James admitted softly, watching with a growing worry as Regulus seemed to pale and his hands shook more violently than before.

“Two years…” Regulus whispered, his eyes widening in disbelief as he subconsciously stared back towards the house. “It took over two years for someone to try and stop him?” He continued, speaking more to himself than James as a look of pure despair morphed itself onto his face. “I did the hard part… I mean- I found the horcrux… and it still took over two years?”

James watched Regulus with a mixture of sadness and pain. It was obvious that the usual defences that Regulus had in place to stop his emotions had been swept away over time and the younger male was crumbling under the weight of emotions he had brushed off. And there was nothing James could do to stop it. Nothing he could do to fix it.

“I didn’t realise that I had to kill him for them as well.” Regulus spat, his face contorting into a mixture of irritation and anger. “I’m seventeen, why am I the one doing all of the heavy lifting?” He exclaimed, face crumpling in realisation just a matter of seconds later. “Except… I’m not seventeen anymore, am I?” He questioned in a devastatingly quiet voice, his knees suddenly feeling weaker under the realisation.

“I’m twenty…” He whispered, staring down at his shaking hands that slowly formed into fists. “Just like that… I’m already twenty?” He mumbled, eyebrows crashing together in a mixture of confusion and fury. How was he already twenty? He had spent three birthdays trapped in the watery tomb he had convinced himself he was trapped in. Three birthdays… Two years and four months… and yet nothing had changed. The world was still in the same state it was when he walked into that stupid cave.

“You’re twenty-one…” Regulus stated as his gaze landed back on James and, embarrassingly, he felt more tears burning at his eyes. “Sirius… he’s twenty-one. Twenty-two in two days?” He added, feeling his heart drop at the realisation that even after those two years and four months had passed, chances were that his brother still hated him.

“Regulus,” James started, his voice soft as he motioned towards the door. “Let’s go inside, okay? You need to get out of the cold before you catch a death.” He urged the younger towards the house and although it took a couple of seconds, Regulus’ legs started to move in agreement with James’ words.  

“It would be best if you changed into something warmer too. I know that I dried your clothes, but you were still suspended in that water for a long time. You’re freezing.” James continued to speak as they walked into the darkened hallway of 12 Grimmauld Place.

Regulus nodded slowly in silent agreement. He had been freezing long before he entered that cave. But a warm jumper seemed like a good idea. He would take a hot shower too but the thought of being under water again made him feel ill. He’d had enough water to last him for the rest of his life.

“Right, so if you lead me to your bedroom, I can leave you in there to change into something warmer and I’ll make us some tea whilst you’re changing? I’m sure I can find some teabags somewhere in this place.” James explained, moving towards the staircase before a clattering came from the kitchen.

Both James and Regulus instantly ceased all movement and Regulus’ whole body was tensed. Who was in the house? It couldn’t be Sirius. There was no circumstance that would make Sirius voluntarily come back to Grimmauld Place. His parents were both dead and he doubted any family members would willingly stay in such a dark, unwelcoming house.

The wards. Regulus could check the wards and see precisely who was with them. Quickly reaching for his wand, Regulus frowned when he didn’t feel the familiar weight. He looked down towards his thigh, where his wand usually laid to find the holder empty. Where the fuck was his wand? The panic only took a second to set in as he tried to remember the last time he had his wand, a firm weight crashing against his chest when he realised that it was still in the cave, likely laying at the bottom of the lake.

“I don’t have my wand.” He whispered alarmingly towards James, who still had an arm firmly wrapped around Regulus. He felt oddly exposed. Almost… naked? He couldn’t remember the last time he had gone around without his wand. Long before he had taken the mark.

“You stay here… I’ll check it out.” James murmured, making sure that Regulus could firmly lean against the banister perched at the bottom of the staircase before making his way towards the kitchen, his wand raised.

“James.” Regulus hissed, alarm in his voice as he helplessly watched the male creep closer and closer to the door. He subconsciously held his breath when James hesitated for a second before bounding into the kitchen, narrowly missing a hex that was instantly sent in his general direction.

“Jamie!” Regulus called out before he could stop himself, wincing as the dryness in his throat made itself more prominent once again.

All movement in the kitchen seemed to stop until James slowly raised his hands and ensured his wand was facing away from the mysterious visitor. “I’m not going to hurt you.” He spoke softly, gaze slowly shifting towards Regulus with a light smile of reassurance on flashing on his face. “I’m just trying to help him. I think that’s what you’ve always tried to do too.” James continued as he looked back towards the visitor, head motioning towards Regulus as he spoke.

A moment passed before Regulus head quiet footsteps shift closer. The footsteps seemed familiar, but Regulus couldn’t properly place the sound. It wasn’t until the familiar figure appeared in the doorway that Regulus let out a relieved sigh, knowing that they were both save.

“Kreacher.” He spoke with a light smile flashing onto his features. “Hello, old friend.” He added as he watched the house-elf stare at him in a mixture of disbelief, grief, and guilt.

“Master Regulus…” Kreacher mumbled, tears steadily building in the house-elf’s eyes as he quickly made his way across to Regulus, taking in the male’s appearance. “Master Regulus is still alive.” He stated, disbelief still obvious across all his features.

Regulus nodded slowly in agreement, head motioning towards James. “That’s right, Kreacher. James managed to pull me out of the cave. I’ve been trapped there all this time.” He explained, watching as guilt seemed to overtake Kreacher’s expression. “No, Kreacher. Don’t you do that.” He ordered, looking at the house-elf with a serious gaze. “You are not allowed to blame yourself for any of this. I ordered you to leave me there, Kreacher. So, only I am to blame for being trapped there.”

Regulus’ gaze slowly moved over to James, who was stood in the dreary doorway with a light smile on his face. “Kreacher? Could you help James prepare us some tea whilst I go and change?” He questioned, noticing that Kreacher looked towards James with an expression that was nothing short of suspicious before the house-elf slowly nodded in agreement. “Of course, Master Regulus.” He confirmed.

Regulus nodded, glancing between the two before slowly turning and making his way up the creaky staircase, heavily using the handrail for support.

“If you need any help, don’t hesitate to call for me!” James called after him with a serious tone. Regulus could practically feel the worry James had as he watched Regulus disappear up the stairs.

“I’ll be fine.” Regulus responded, lightly throwing his hand dismissively as he left James and Kreacher in each other’s company and in the charged atmosphere that was seemingly bubbling between the two.

He continued making his way up the staircase, subconsciously avoiding all creaky parts on each step. The journey to his bedroom took far longer than he would have liked but after not moving for over two years, he couldn’t be completely surprised by the aching that was slowly settling into his bones and muscles.

Merlin, how he wished that he could sleep for an eternity. Alas, there was apparently still business to take care of so he would soldier on, like he always had.

Once he had finally stepped into his bedroom, he felt his heart clench as he leaned against the doorframe. He room looked exactly the same as the day he had left, as if no time had passed at all. Kreacher had obviously kept his room in a pristine condition, not a single speck of dust visible on his plethora of books and journals scattered around the floor in neat piles. Even when Kreacher knew there was a high chance that Regulus was dead, he had still treated Regulus’ bedroom with the same care he had since he was a boy. The thought made warmth spread across his chest as he took a couple of steady steps into his room, taking a quick glance around.

From the corner of his eye, he caught sight of his reflection in the mirror and froze. For a moment he just stared towards the corner of his eye and silently willed himself to look away and focus on getting changed instead of focusing on everything that had changed. But he just couldn’t. It might have only been over two years since he went into the cave, but he looked so much older.

Taking a couple of slow steps closer to the mirror, his gaze shifted so that he was staring at his reflection head on. In short, he looked like shit. He had dark circles under his eyes, his skin seemingly ten times paler than it used to be, a rough stubble apparently forcing its way onto his face and his lips were cracked and peeling. He looked as though he hadn’t slept in years, which in a cruel way seemed true. Even when he had been stuck in the cave for over two years, he had never properly rested and was seemingly stuck in limbo until James had pulled him out.

Being left with nothing but his thoughts had seemingly taken its toll on him. At least now he could see why he felt seconds away from collapsing into his bed and not reemerging for another couple of years.

Even his signature black curls looked dull and deflated. He looked like a shell of his past self, older and exhausted. And yet, he still hadn’t finished? There was still more he had to do?

Managing to drag himself away from the mirror, he started running through a short list of everything he needed to get done right at that moment to try and avoid overwhelming himself with the prospect of continuing to fight in the war.

1. Get changed into warmer clothing.
2. Go back to the kitchen and drink the tallest glass of water he could find.
3. Drink the tea James was preparing.
4. Ask Kreacher about the Horcrux.
5. Sleep for the next two years.

His plan seemed simple enough and ended with him finally going to sleep. He just needed to finish all his tasks as quickly as he possibly could.

Searching through his wardrobe, he pulled out a change of clothes. Just a simple pair of black slacks and a white shirt. He changed in complete silence, opting to discard his clothes in a pile right next to his wardrobe. He’d ask Kreacher to burn them later.

With the fresh clothes on, he was starting to feel at least slightly better, but he was still absolutely freezing. But he wasn’t so sure he would ever get rid of that feeling. Perhaps that was just the way he was now, reduced to constantly feeling cold because he tried to defy Voldemort and apparently lost.

Taking another quick glance towards his wardrobe, he let out a weary sigh and reached into the back, bypassing all of his clothes and grasping on the thick jumper he had hidden. It was a deep red jumper that looked horrifically too Gryffindor for Regulus to be wearing but it was one of the only jumpers he could get his hands on before Sirius left, so it would do.

Pulling the jumper over his head, Regulus sighed softly and allowed his hands to hide under the soft wool, only hesitating for a second before making his way out of his bedroom and made his way back down to the kitchen.

If James recognised the jumper, he didn’t mention it as Regulus walked into the kitchen and took a seat at the table. Kreacher wordlessly appeared at Regulus’ side a second later and pushed a glass of water onto the table before disappearing again with a soft ‘pop’.

Silently thanking the house-elf, Regulus grabbed the glass of water and took large gulps of the cool liquid, allowing his eyes to close in relief as the desert in his mouth steadily started to dissipate.

The moment he placed the empty glass onto the table, Kreacher reappeared and placed another glass of water in front of Regulus, swiftly grabbing the empty glass and disappearing once more.

Regulus decided to take small sips from the second glass of water, the relentless thirst he had been stuck with since he took the first sip of potion in the cave finally quenched. It took him about thirty seconds before he put the half-empty glass down and finally looked towards James, who had been sat patiently waiting in the seat opposite him at the table.

“So… two years…” Regulus started, trailing off with a quiet sigh as he tried to start a conversation. Any sort of conversation. Luckily, James wasn’t one to leave Regulus struggling with his words, always willing to help him fill the gaps in the silence.

“Yeah… everyone thought that you were dead. You said that you went into that cave in June 1979?” James questioned, waiting until Regulus nodded slowly in response and hummed. “Well, your disappearance was reported in July the same year and you were presumed dead in the September when your parents were found dead.” He explained before wincing in realisation. “Shit- sorry. You won’t know that your parents passed away.” He muttered apologetically.  

Regulus found himself laughing humourlessly in response to James, slowly shaking his head and took a couple more sips of his water. “And you used to say that you knew me.” He mumbled with a soft sigh, staring at James with a serious gaze. “Was the cause of death ever publicised?” He inquired, raising an eyebrow slightly.

James watched Regulus for a few seconds, his eyebrows furrowing as though Regulus was a puzzle that he was trying to figure out. “Heart attacks… both of them.” He answered, softly clearing his throat. “It was assumed that news of you going missing was too much for them to handle.” He continued, observing Regulus closely.

A spiteful scoff tore through Regulus’ mouth before he could even attempt to stop it, staring at James with an ‘are you being serious’ look in his eyes. “People actually believed that bollocks?” He questioned with a humourless chuckle. “Merlin, the ministry really is incompetent. They obviously never bothered to look at how long they had been dead. I mean- I know I put preservation spells on them, but they would have been simple enough to remove.” He sighed in irritation, carefully picking up the cup of tea James had pushed towards him when he had initially sat down.

James, who still looked as though he was trying to crack a puzzle, stared at Regulus in shock as he repeated Regulus’ words in his head a few times, eyes widening in realisation. “Your parents… they died before you went to the cave? But then- why didn’t you report their deaths to the ministry… unless…?”

Regulus nodded slowly along with James’ words, a look of fake sympathy growing on his face as he watched James’ mouth open and shut a couple of times. “Now you’re really starting to know me, James.” He replied with a soft shrug of his shoulders, letting out a content sigh as he drank some of the tea.

“… you killed them?” James questioned hesitantly, his voice oddly subdued as he stared at Regulus with a mixture of shock and concern swimming in his hazel eyes.

“There you go!” Regulus replied, almost enthusiastically though his face remained stoic. He slowly looked away, glancing around the kitchen with a quiet sigh and a flash of sadness crossed his features. “The day before I went to the cave… I knew that I had to go to the cave but had absolutely no idea whether I would ever make it back out again. So, I made some… contingencies.” He explained softly.

“And your parents’ death was a contingency?” James asked incredulously, eyes growing wider.

Regulus nodded slowly in response, gently resting his head against his hand and let out another sigh. “I didn’t have a choice…” He mumbled, looking back towards James with sadness more prominent in his silvery-green eyes. “I knew that if I couldn’t get out of that cave, they would start searching for me and when they inevitably couldn’t find me, they would go after the next best thing.”

“Sirius…” James trailed off, understanding growing in his eyes as he watched the other.

Regulus nodded once more, slowly rubbing his neck and lightly chewed on his bottom lip. “They might have been the worst parents on the planet, but I did love them… in a twisted sort of way. But they had to go.” He admitted with a shrug, an emptiness growing in his eyes. “It was easy enough to slip the poison into their drinks. They were so certain that I was completely under their hold that they never even questioned when I brought them the drinks instead of Kreacher.” He continued, an empty smile flashing on his lips for a moment along with a quiet huff of laughter. “Father went first, which wasn’t all that surprising. He wasn’t in the best health anyway. But mother… my dear, sweet maman. She wasn’t going without a fight. She had tried her hardest to save father, even resorted to begging me to call for a healer. When I didn’t, she realised rather quickly what was happening.” He explained.

James could only stare at Regulus, eyes still wide as the male explained his parents’ deaths with a mixture of sadness and indifference. Like Regulus had been deeply affected by his parents’ death but he could still rationalise why they had to die.

“She was utterly furious, but she had still realised far too late. The poison had taken effect and there was nothing she could do to stop it. I had already ordered Kreacher away from the house, telling him that he couldn’t return until I called for him. It didn’t matter how many times maman called for him, he was busy elsewhere. The worst part was that I still cried for them. I still apologised to her for giving them the poison. Told her how I had no choice, that I had to protect Sirius from them.” He continued, taking another sip of tea as kept his gaze firmly locked with James’. “I think she finally understood in the end, you know. I went on this rampage about how I wouldn’t allow them to go after Sirius again. That since I didn’t know whether or not I would survive, I had to ensure that Sirius would be safe. She stopped fighting after I had told her that. Perhaps she finally understood what they had done to us- to our fucked up family. There was this… softness in her eyes…” He spoke, voice falling into a whisper once he reached the last sentence.

James reached across the table, gently resting his hand on Regulus’ with a sympathetic smile on his face. “I’m sorry… that you had to do that.” He spoke softly, watching Regulus closely.

Regulus smiled lightly in response, lightly shifting his hand to squeeze James’, taking a shaky breath. “She told me that she loved me. That she loved Sirius. It was the first time I’d heard her say that she loved either of us.” He admitted, closing his eyes as a tear slowly rolled down his cheek. “They were by no means good parents but…” He mumbled, quickly wiping away his tear and sniffed as he opened his eyes once more.

“But they were still your parents.” James finished, Regulus nodding quickly in response.

Letting out another shaky breath, Regulus cleared his throat and forced indifference to win over his emotions. “I cried for them… mourned for them. Before I had Kreacher take me to the cave, I put the preservation spells on their bodies and forbid Kreacher from going into their room. He didn’t need to see them like that. He knew what I had done, even offered to try and help move their bodies elsewhere but I didn’t let him. He cared for them, in his own way. Their deaths are my burden to bear… no one else’s.” He stated and shifted to finish off his cup of tea, trying to take his mind away from the memory of his parents’ final moments.

James, who seemed to always be a saint towards Regulus, even when he never deserved it, quickly shifted the topic away from Walburga and Orion. “So why were you in that cave in the first place? You keep mentioning a... horcrux or something?”

Regulus eyes widened for a moment, nodding in agreement. “Good point.” He spoke, looking around the kitchen for a moment before calling out for the house-elf with a soft voice, “Kreacher?”

A moment passed before the house-elf appeared at Regulus’ side, staring up at the male with a knowing look. “What can Kreacher do for Master Regulus?” He questioned slowly.

“Do you still have the locket, Kreacher? The one from the cave.” Regulus enquired, watching as Kreacher seemed to grow alarmed with guilt building up in his features, slowly nodding and disappearing with a soft ‘pop’. Just as quickly as he left, Kreacher returned and held out the locket towards Regulus. “Kreacher tried to follow Master Regulus’ order to destroy the locket. But no matter how hard Kreacher tried, he could not do it.” The house-elf explained, his voice growing more rapid as he spoke and the hand that held the locket shook, shame growing on Kreacher’s face.

“Kreacher,” Regulus started, reaching out to gently grasp the house-elf’s hand to stop it from shaking. “Kreacher, it’s alright. I’m back now, so I can destroy it.” He explained, wanting to reassure the house-elf as quickly and efficiently as he could. “You’ve kept it safe, old friend. That’s the most I could have asked for.” He continued, carefully taking the locket and tried to pointedly ignore the shiver that ran up his spine.   

Sending a light but reassuring smile Kreacher’s way, Regulus turned back towards James and held out the locket. “This is why I was in that cave. This is a horcrux.” He told the male.

James slowly reached out to grab the locket but froze a few inches from the silver chain when he felt the dark magic that was radiating from it. Out of instinct, he quickly pulled his hand away and let out a shaky breath. “What’s wrong with it?” He questioned, eyeing the locket wearily.

“That would be the horcrux part.” Regulus replied, placing the locket down on the wooden table and stared at it for a couple of seconds. “This is how I know that he will come back. He created this horcrux to try and maintain immortality. You see, the horcrux is a piece of very dark magic that contains a fragment of a wizard’s soul. From what I researched, a horcrux can be created by committing an act of evil like murder. Killing another living person rips the soul apart, creating a fragment of one’s soul. This fragment can be captured and placed into an object, creating a horcrux.” Regulus explained, glancing between James and the locket as he spoke.

“So, Voldemort is immortal?” James questioned, a look of despair forming on his face.

“In theory, yes. As long as a wixen has at least one horcrux hidden in the world, their soul is bound to the world of the living, and they cannot die.” Regulus confirmed, observing James with a light smile on his face. “But before you start panicking yourself. We’ve got the horcrux right here. So, if we properly destroy it and then kill Tom Riddle when he rematerializes, he will be dead and cannot return.” He stated.

“Tom Riddle?” James countered, his eyebrows furrowing in slight confusion.

“Oh! Just wait until you hear this one, Jamie.” Regulus started with amusement growing in his eyes as he leaned closer to James. “Voldemort… you know, the Dark Lord, the man who loathes anyone or anything that isn’t a pureblood. Well, he’s actually Tom Marvolo Riddle, half-blood. Muggle father, magical mother. The most prominent blood supremacist in the country isn’t even a pureblood himself.” He revealed with an amused chuckle, eyes positively gleaming in amusement.

James stared at Regulus in shock for a few moments as his brain caught up with the information that Regulus had just shared with him. “You’re serious? How did you even find that out?” He asked.

“I’ve always been good at researching, James. You know that.” Regulus stated and slowly leaned back with a quiet hum. “After I had taken the mark… I wanted to try and figure out who the man I was supposedly following actually was. It took me a few months and many, many headaches but I eventually figured it out. It is possible, you just have to listen to both Tom and Dumbledore when they start monologuing, which they both do a surprising amount. Dumbledore knows that Tom Riddle is Voldemort and Tom absolutely hates him for it. That is precisely why neither of them will see what I’ve managed to do coming. They’re playing a game of chest against each other, not realising that there’s a third player.” He explained, a satisfied smirk on his face.

James observed Regulus closely for a few seconds, his eyes softening the longer he watched the male and let out a quiet hum. “Everyone’s always underestimating you…” He murmured, slowly chewing on his bottom lip. “You’ve been trying to protect us all this whole time, haven’t you? That’s why you pushed everyone away when you took the mark… to protect us?”

Regulus froze in his seat, the satisfied smirk fading from his face as he listened to James, shrugging lightly. “Don’t misunderstand me, James.” He warned, voice shaking slightly as he wrapped his arms around his stomach to try and protect himself in some way. “Yes, I may want to try and protect you all but that doesn’t change all of the horrible and disgusting things I have done.”

“But Reg-”, “No, James. I am not a good person. I’m a murderer. Not only did I kill my parents, but I have killed many muggles when I was being initiated to join the ranks. Just because I tried to do the right thing, it doesn’t absolve me of every other horrific act I have committed.” Regulus stated sternly, making a point of avoiding James’ eyes.

There was a silence that stretched between the two for almost a minute, the only sound being Regulus shaky breaths as he tried to forget about all the muggles he had been forced to kill, to torture. Except, he wasn’t forced, was he? Not really. For an unforgivable to properly work, you had to mean them. He had to want to kill all of those people. The reminder made him feel nauseous.

“Regulus.” James spoke up after a minute, his voice soft and understanding as he gently nudged Regulus’ foot under the table to try and convince the male to look at him. It took a couple of seconds, but Regulus slowly turned his head to face James once more.

“It’s war, Regulus.” James started, clearing his throat and gripped tightly onto his own cup of tea that was now cold. “We’ve all done things that we regret. I fought with the Order, remember? I’m sure there’s Death Eaters out there that I’ve severely hurt or even killed. The thought can be suffocating sometimes but it is the reality of war. There are people who get caught in the crossfire, people who are casualties of war and end up paying with their lives. You’re allowed to feel guilty about it, but don’t you dare hold yourself to a higher standard to everyone else. There are bigger monsters out there.” He explained, watching Regulus with a serious gaze. “If you’re not a good person for killing people, then I’m not a good person either.”

Regulus opened his mouth to argue with the male but was quickly cut off with James gently raising his hand and shaking his head. “Don’t even try to argue with me about this, Regulus. We’ve all done absolutely horrible things. None of us are innocent in this. But what matters is what we’re trying to do. And you’re trying to make sure that Voldemort- that Tom Riddle is stopped for good. That already makes you a better person than every other Death Eater that follows him.” He stated, reaching out once more to gently grip Regulus’ hand. “Listen to me.” He demanded, determination filling his eyes. “You are not the villain here. So, stop treating yourself as if you are.”

Staring at James with a mixture of emotions flourishing in his chest, Regulus opened his mouth a couple of times to reply before giving up and letting out a soft sigh of defeat, slowly nodding his head. “Okay, James. Your point has been made.” He whispered softly.

James nodded curtly and squeezed Regulus’ hand. “Now we can discuss how the hell you’re planning on destroying a horcrux tomorrow. For now, I think it’s best that you get some rest. You look- no offence- fucking exhausted.” He stated with a teasing smile making its way onto his face.

Regulus rolled his eyes lightly and nodded in agreement. “I’ll take that. I look like shit right now.” He grumbled, making a point of finishing his glass of water before standing up with a soft groan. “Take any room you want. And please do not wake me under any circumstances unless you’re about to die. Are we clear?” Regulus warned, looking towards James with a raised eyebrow.

James was quick to hold his hands up and nodded. “Clear as crystal, Reg. I suppose it won’t be tomorrow then. So, I’ll see you next week?” He teased with a soft laugh, standing up himself and grabbing the empty cups and glass.

“Next week.” Regulus grunted in agreement, steadily making his way towards the staircase with a soft yawn, the full extent of his exhaustion slowly catching up to him. “Kreacher, be nice to James!” He called out into the general space of the house, knowing Kreacher would hear him.

“Oh, and James?” Regulus added, turning back towards the kitchen for a moment.

“Yeah?” James questioned, having put the cups and glass in the sink and rolling up his sleeves to wash them.

“Thank you. For getting me out of that cave.” Regulus replied sincerely, sending a soft smile James’ way. “After everything I did to you… it would have been easy for you to just leave me there. So, thank you for still helping me.”

“Always.” James replied straightaway, smiling reassuringly towards Regulus. “We can discuss what happened between us another time. I think it would be cruel to keep you awake any longer.” He added with a soft chuckle.

Regulus sent a grateful smile James’ way before continuing his ascent up the stairs to finally get some sleep.

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To be precise, three days passed before Regulus woke up from his apparent hibernation. A fact that James had been quick to tease him over when he finally reappeared, making his way into the kitchen for some food, still wearing the same clothes. The hibernation had put him in a ravenous state, emphasising the hunger he had managed to ignore ever since he emerged from the cave.

“You don’t have to look so smug.” Regulus grumbled as he shovelled some of the delicious stew James had cooked into his mouth.

“I’ve just never seen you shove so much food into your mouth in one go.” James replied with a soft laugh, not bothering to hide the fondness in his eyes as he watched the male.

“You try going over two years without food. Makes you hungry.” Regulus replied, glaring over at James even if there was no real malice in his eyes.

A few more minutes of Regulus eating as much food as he possibly could passed before James brought out the locket, dangling it from his finger and raised an eyebrow. “So, what’s your plan to destroy it? I’m going to assume that I can’t just smash it with a rock.” He queried with a soft chuckle.

Regulus finally leaned back in his chair, away from the table and eyed the locket for a moment before wiping his mouth. “From what I researched, we’ve only really got two viable options. We either use basilisk venom or fiendfyre.” He stated with a soft shrug, gaze remaining locked on the locket. “Now unless you’ve got a basilisk hidden in your clothes, I think that using fiendfyre is much safer.”

“Ah, yes. Giant snake that can kill you with one look of its eyes or the hardest, darkest fire spell to produce and control. I love our options.” James remarked sarcastically.

“Well, I am open to suggestions.” Regulus countered with a quirk of his eyebrow, crossing his arms over his chest as he looked at James expectantly.

“Can’t we just- I don’t know- go to an apothecary or something to look for the venom?” James suggested with a flash of uncertainty in his eyes, eyes focused on Regulus, who shook his head slowly.

“The venom is too rare to just go to an apothecary. We would have to one, change our appearance since I’m supposed to be dead, and you’re supposed to be a golden Gryffindor. And two, hope that even if we happened to hear whispers of someone who was selling basilisk venom, we don’t end up being caught by the aurors who are trying to restrict the sale of the venom in the first place.” Regulus stated, watching James with amusement. “But sure, off you go to knockturn alley and go grab us some basilisk venom.”

“Alright- fine. You’ve made your point.” James grumbled with a small huff of annoyance. “But is fiendfyre really the only other option we have? You know how difficult it can be to control, that’s assuming we’d be able to properly cast it in the first place.”

“James. I’ve cast all three unforgivable curses along with countless dark hexes and spells. I think I’ll work it out.” Regulus pointed out, getting up to grab a glass of water. “Besides, that’s what the dungeons are for. Creepy as it is that this place has dungeons, it is actually rather beneficial to us.” He added, standing by the sink as he filled his glass.

“You’ve lost me- how are dungeons going to help with not burning this whole house down if you lose control?” James queried, leaning back in his own chair as he watched Regulus’ movements closely.

“Because the foundation of the Noble and Most Ancient House of Black is dark magic.” Regulus stated in a matter-of-fact tone. “So, it’s quite obvious that we would have a dungeon that is better suited to perform dark magic than most other houses.” He concluded as he sat back down opposite James, taking a few mouthfuls of water. “It’s got all sorts of wards and protections in it, so I should be able to practice fiendfyre without burning the whole house down.”

Nodding slowly along with Regulus as he spoke, James stretched his arms above his head and put the locket back into his pocket. “Seems like you’ve got everything figured out, as usual.” He chuckled, smiling wider when Regulus nodded in agreement with him.

“I do.” He replied with a nonchalant shrug and a brief smile flashing across his lips, reaching down to his wand holder before pausing face paling slightly as he remembered that his wand was MIA.

“What’s wrong?” James questioned as he glanced over the table, trying to see what Regulus was checking for.

“My wand… it fell into the water when I was pulled under.” Regulus admitted, an annoyed huff following swiftly after as his eyebrows furrowed in concentration. “How am I supposed to get a new wand when I’m dead?” He grumbled and rested his head in his hands in frustration. “I’ll have to get Kreacher to try and find me a wand in the shithole of dark artifacts in the loft.” He declared, taking a brief glance around just in case Kreacher was nearby.

“Or you could just use mine?” James suggested, pausing as Regulus’ gaze snapped over to him. He watched Regulus for a moment before pulling his wand out of his holder and held it out to Regulus. “Merlin knows what kind of wands your family has collected over the years, and we don’t know how safe or unsafe they may be. At least if you use my wand, I can say with absolute certainty that we’ll be safe.” He explained as he motioned for Regulus to grab his wand.

“I can’t do that- James we can’t share a wand.” Regulus denied, eyebrows furrowing as his gaze zeroed in on the wand still being insistently held in his direction.

“Yes, we can. Just until we can safely get you a new one. Granted, my wand might not perform as well for you as it does for me, but it should do the job. Besides, if you can manage to perform fiendfyre out of my wand, just think about how much easier it would be to perform with a wand that’s chose you. I thought you enjoyed a challenge.” James pressed, deliberately goading Regulus and instantly smiled triumphantly when his wand was snatched away by the younger.

“I’m only agreeing to prove a point.” Regulus retorted, pointing towards James in a threatening manner. “I do mildly respect the manipulation though. Perhaps I’ll make a Slytherin of you yet.” He teased with a smirk on his face, quickly getting to his feet and motioned towards the stairs that led directly to the dungeons. “Let’s get started.”

James nodded slowly and stood up from his seat, following Regulus towards the dungeons. “I reckon I’m more likely to make a Gryffindor out of you first.” He teased in return, laughing as his own wand was pointed at him.

“I’m not above hexing you, Potter.” Regulus warned, amusement lacing his tone instead of malice.

“You wouldn’t dare harm this handsome face.” James retorted with a smug smile on his face.

“Ow!” James exclaimed after a few seconds.

“You said nothing about harming the rest of you.” Regulus muttered with a light roll of his eyes.

“That didn’t mean you had to punch my leg!”, “I warned you, Potter. Does a punch not class as a hex?”

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Perfecting fiendfyre took far longer than Regulus had wanted but he supposed that learning how to cast the spell with a wand that wasn’t his in just under six weeks wasn’t too bad. Plus, it allowed him a small level of smugness as he pointed out to James that he could now perform a spell with James’ wand that James himself couldn’t.

“You don’t have to look quite so full of yourself, you know.” James complained as he placed the locket down in the centre of the dungeon, playfully glaring towards Regulus who was smirking at James every chance he got.

“Small victories.” Regulus shrugged in response, smirk remaining on his face for a few moments before slowly fading as his gaze landed on the locket, his eyes narrowing. “Stay behind me.” He told James, who took his position to Regulus’ side and a couple of steps back. “Even though I’m fairly certain I’ve got enough control now, I don’t know how the magic will react with the horcrux, and I would rather not have to explain to everyone why you were burned to death in a dungeon by a Death Eater who is supposed to be dead.”

“It would be funny to watch you try to explain though.” James joked, rather unhelpfully but did take an extra step back to help Regulus relax. “You’ve got this.” He added once he heard Regulus take a deep breath.

Keeping his narrowed gaze glued on the locket, Regulus raised the wand, and his brows set in a quiet confidence. “Pestis Incendium,” he incanted, watching as a rush of heat entered the room with a roar as fire started circling around the locket. Regulus’ head tilted slightly as he watched the flames pour out of the wand, concentrating on the flames as sweat gathered on his forehead.

It took a few seconds before the fire began to take the form of a lion circling around the locket, baring its teeth at the horcrux. Barely a second later, the lion pounced onto the locket, submerging the silver into the scotching heat. The reaction was instantaneous, large plumes of black smoke emerging from the locket. The plumes of smoke split into three distinct heads, the head of Tom Riddle, the largest in the middle attempting to attack the flames but to no avail.

James and Regulus watched as the heads seemed to scream in agony for approximately ten seconds before dissipating, leaving the locket empty with no soul fragment. Regulus still held the spell for a few more seconds than necessary before cancelling it, the flames extinguishing themselves back into the wand.

Once he was satisfied that the spell had properly dispersed itself, Regulus lowered James’ wand and turned towards the male, who was watching Regulus in a mixture of awe and amusement. “A lion? Who are you and what have you done with Regulus Arcturus Black?” James teased, stepping closer to Regulus and gently wrapped an arm around his shoulders.  

“It seemed ironic.” Regulus shrugged, allowing himself to gently lean against James and his gaze went back towards the destroyed locket. “It’s a bit of a shame really. It was supposed to be a historic artifact but, instead, it was tainted and used in a foolish attempt to become immortal. Not that I think Salazar Slytherin would completely be against one of his belongings being a horcrux.” He rambled, carefully levitating the destroyed locket and examined it for a few seconds.

“What should we do with it?” James questioned softly, observing the locket with a weary gaze. Even without the dark magic encompassed around it, the locket still made him feel off.

“I’ve got a drawer upstairs that I warded. It’ll stop anyone from accessing it and when Tom is properly dead, I’ll hand it over to the ministry.” Regulus replied, keeping the locket levitated as he looked back towards James. “At least we’re one step closer to ending the war for real.” He added, a light smile on his face, He didn’t want to jump the gun too early but there was seemingly a flicker of hope at the end of the tunnel.

“You’re right. One step closer than we were this morning.” James agreed and gently nudged Regulus. “So, what should we do next?” He questioned, starting to walk back upstairs with Regulus still right next to him.

“Next, we’re going to try and find out where Tom Riddle is hiding. If we can find him before he properly rematerializes, he should be easier to kill.” Regulus responded, thinking over all the notes and documents he had collected in his bedroom.

“How are we going to find him?” James looked back towards Regulus, tilting his head slightly as he tried to read the other’s expressions.

“No idea.” Regulus admitted with a soft sigh, looking back towards James with a soft gaze, “but I do have an idea where we can start.”

Chapter Text

As it turns out, Regulus did not know where to start. He and James worked through all the paperwork, maps, family lineages and certifications they could find. They started with Tom Riddle but ended up stretching their searches to both Tom Riddle Sr and Merope Riddle but to no avail. There were absolutely no clues about where Tom Riddle could be hiding.

Regulus had even taken to apparating to the orphanage that Tom had grown up in but there was absolutely no sign of the man. It was infuriating and as annoying as it was, Regulus was stumped. There had to be a way to find him, Regulus just couldn’t see the trail quite yet.

But the mystery of where Tom Riddle might be wasn’t the only conundrum that was bothering Regulus. He had avoided asking James about it but on one particular evening in late March, Regulus let his curiosity win out.

“James…” He started, looking across at the hazel-eyed male from his spot perched in a chair in the Black Family library.

“Yeah?” James replied almost instantly, placing the book he had started to read to one side.

“Don’t think that I haven’t noticed that in the past five months, you’ve avoided telling me anything about your life. So, I have no clue how things have either changed or stayed the same for you.” Regulus explained, watching closely as James seemed to tense up and a flash of panic swam in his eyes before dissipating a moment later.  

“I hadn’t noticed…” James mumbled in response, glancing away towards the nearest bookcase.

He was lying. Regulus knew he was lying. The only question was why. Why was James so seemingly reluctant to talk about his life?

“The last I heard, you and Lily were engaged.” Regulus pressed, crossing his leg over his knee and kept an insistent gaze on James. “So, how have things been? And I mean other than the war.” He clarified, knowing that James would ramble about the war over his relationship with Lily any time. Regulus understood why, he had been quietly devastated when he heard they had gotten engaged, but he had been trapped with his own thoughts for a long time, and he had made peace with many things. One of the only things that the cave had been good for. He had found in the months following his escape from the cave, he had matured and wasn’t as quick to fly off the handle as he had been previously. Apparently, turning twenty did that to him.

James let out a quiet sigh of defeat, knowing that he couldn’t avoid the topic when Regulus brought it up head on. “Lily and I got married in August 1979. The war was getting more intense and not for the better. People were dying left and right. Lily’s parents were ill and all they really wanted to see before they passed away was Lily being safe and happy. So, we did admittedly rush into marriage, but it’s still one of the best days of my life.” James explained with a soft smile, his gaze slowly shifting back to Regulus before another flash of panic in his eyes. “But that doesn’t mean that I just stopped loving you.” He added.

Regulus’ eyes softened as he listened to James, a light smile quirking on his lips and he put his paperwork to one side. “James…” He started and let out a soft breath, shifting to sit up properly in his chair. “Jamie, you don’t have to worry about the prospect of hurting my feelings. You don’t have to justify loving someone. Especially since I’m the one who broke up with you in the first place.” He explained, tone soft as he watched James with a serious gaze. “I know you… and I know just how much love you have in your heart. I’m glad that you got your happy ending and you both deserve to be happy.”

James observed Regulus for a few seconds before a relieved smile settled on his lips. “I’m lucky to have her, she definitely stops me from doing many, many dumb things.” He joked with a soft chuckle, chewing on his bottom lip in thought for a moment. “We have a son.” He added after a couple of seconds, eyes sparkling.

“A son?” Regulus repeated curiously, the smile on his lips widening slightly as he watched James’ eyes sparkle. “Thank merlin that he has Lily as his mother. At least there’s hope for him.” He teased, laughing quietly when James playfully glared at him. He quickly held his hands up innocently and shrugged, “I’m just saying that at least he has a chance. If he’s lucky, he’ll inherit Lily’s brain rather than your knack for idiocy.”

James playfully rolled his eyes but still nodded in agreement. “Well, he’s like a little mini-me. Except he got Lily’s bright green eyes and ability to use them to his advantage.” He added and rested back in his chair. “He’s called Harry, and I know I’m biased, but he’s the greatest kid to ever exist, Reg. He’s perfect.” He spoke fondly, sadness growing in his eyes for a few seconds.

“James… shouldn’t you be with them? You’ve been helping me for five months and you haven’t gone to see them… I bet they both miss you.” Regulus replied carefully, subconsciously leaning closer to James. “You’ve already done more than enough to help.”

James quickly shook his head and sent a reassuring smile Regulus’ way, sadness still swimming in his eyes. “Lily knows that I’m here and she knows why I’m here. We both agreed that it was important to make sure that you completed your mission and no matter how long it takes, I’m here to help you.” He vowed with a warm smile. “Harry is safe and that’s all that matters to me. So, you won’t be getting rid of me that easily.” He teased.

Regulus shook his head slowly, glancing back towards the paperwork in his lap and let out a quiet sigh. “I don’t know how we’re going to find him, James.” He admitted in a quiet voice, reading over the same words on the same paperwork for what felt like the millionth time.

James watched Regulus for a couple of seconds before standing up from his spot and made his way closer to Regulus, kneeling in front of him and reached out to grasp Regulus’ hand. “You’re putting too much pressure on yourself, Reg. If we go through the facts, then we know that he’s hiding out there somewhere in a weakened state, right?” Regulus nodded slowly. “And he has no choice but to perform some sort of ritual to regain his strength?” James continued, smiling as Regulus continued to nod in agreement. “Then, perhaps, instead of trying to figure out where he might be hiding, it might be worth trying to figure out what ritual he’d have to perform? Usually, rituals need more than just magic so-”, “So, if we can find the ritual, we can try and track the supplies he’ll need to perform it.” Regulus finished James’ sentence with a firm nod.

“Precisely.” James agreed with a wink and took another glance around the library, “and it looks like we’re in the right place. We’ve got generations worth of books on magic and rituals we can search through.”

“Just, make sure to avoid all of the books in that corner.” Regulus motioned towards the furthest corner away from them that seemed to have a looming presence intended to make anyone near it as uncomfortable as possible. “Most of those books are either cursed or protected with blood magic, only those with Black blood can read them.” He explained.

“Truly joyous, your family.” James replied sarcastically with a soft chuckle, standing up with a soft sigh. “I’ll start in a much safer section of the library then.”

Regulus nodded once more, gathering the paperwork in his lap and pushing it onto the nearest flat surface before standing up. “And I’ll go through the evil section. Best hope I don’t catch the Black Family Madness from there.” He joked, taking long strides towards the corner and forcing himself to ignore every part of his body that was alarming him of the danger those books could hold.

“Oh, and James?” He added, turning on his heel to watch James make his way across to a much safer section of the library. There was still a high chance that some of the books were cursed but Regulus was certain that James would be able to differentiate them.

James was quick to look back at Regulus, raising an eyebrow with a soft smile still on his face, “yeah?”

“Thank you. For helping me with all of this and for not letting me fall into my own thoughts.” Regulus uttered, sincerity in his tone as he held James’ gaze. “And congratulations. On both your marriage and your son. I really am happy for you, you know.”

James’ smile widened slowly as he listened to Regulus’ words and nodded lightly. “I know you are, Regulus. You know, you’ve never been as open with your emotions as you have been for the past five months. It looks good on you, not hiding everything away behind those walls you used to love.” He admitted and watched Regulus for a few seconds, seemingly debating on whether to say something else or not. Regulus could see the moment he had made up his mind, a sheepish smile growing on James’ face as he opened his mouth, “and it might sound a little selfish… but I don’t want you to lose that. So, please don’t let this war take away your emotions again. You always look so beautiful whenever you allow your emotions to take over. It would be such a waste if you tried to force yourself not to feel anything at all.”

Regulus felt at a loss for words for a few moments, staring at James with mixture shock and realisation in his eyes. It was true that he hadn’t bothered hiding his emotions around James. Honestly, he hadn’t felt the need to hide since everything was out in the open anyway. James knew why Regulus had pushed everyone away, why he had taken the mark in the childish hopes that he could end the war from inside enemy territory. So, what else was there to hide?

“I won’t tell you that I’ll never hide my emotions again. But I do promise to show my emotions around people that I care about. And I never make promises that aren’t true.” Regulus declared, turning back towards his designated bookcase and allowed his fingers to run along the spines of the books on one shelf, pulling out a book he silently prayed wouldn’t try to curse or scream at him.

“I know you don’t.” James replied, making a start on his own research even though he seemed momentarily distracted by something.

“I love you.” Regulus admitted in a hushed whisper, cheeks flushing a bright red as he actively avoided James’ eyes.

James carefully cupped Regulus’ hand with his cheeks and gently forced the male to look at him, a warm smile on his face. “You promise?” He questioned, a teasing edge to his voice as his eyebrow quirked upwards.

Regulus let out a quiet, breathy laugh and leaned closer to James, pressing a soft peck to the male’s lips as his cheeks only darkened in colour.

“I promise.” He vowed softly.

“You’re not one to make broken promises, I know that.” James added after a few seconds, glancing back towards Regulus with an unreadable expression before snapping himself out of his trance and focused on the task at hand.

They had to find the ritual Tom Riddle needed.

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Reading through countless books about dark magic and varying degrees of dark rituals took far longer than both James and Regulus thought it would. It felt like they had hardly made a dent in the vast knowledge held within the library but, luckily, they finally caught a break in mid-May.

Regulus had fallen asleep in the same chair he had spent countless hours in, only stirring when he could feel someone’s eyes on him. It took him a couple of seconds to stir into consciousness. The first thing he noticed was that the book he had been reading had apparently fallen because he couldn’t feel its weight on his lap. The second thing he noticed was that there was apparently a… blanket…? wrapped around him. It would be all too easy to fall back to sleep, but he could still feel someone watching him. Even when asleep, he’d know James Potter’s gaze anywhere.

“Is there something on my face?” Regulus muttered after a couple of seconds, forcing his eyes to open and lightly glared across at James.

“No, you just look so peaceful when you’re asleep.” James replied with a soft shrug, completely ignoring the fact that Regulus had caught him staring.

Regulus let out a quiet huff that evolved into a quiet laugh as he sat up, stretching his arms with a soft groan and reached for his book, which was inconspicuously rested on the table, still open on the page he was reading. “How long was I asleep for?” He questioned softly, picking up the book with a soft yawn.

“Couple of hours. I figured you needed the rest since we haven’t exactly been sleeping regularly.” James explained and flicked his gaze back towards his book. “I even risked one of the books from your pile.” He added, waving the book in his hands towards Regulus with a playful grin flashing across his face. “And since all my limbs are still attached, I’m assuming it was one of the safer ones.”

Regulus rubbed his eyes to try and clear his sleepy vision, reading the front of the book James was waving and his brows furrowed. “James… that’s one of the darker books.” He stated, eyes widening slightly in alarm as he reached towards the book and flinched back slightly from the dark magic emanating from the pages. “Are you sure you’re alright? It’s got dark magic pooling from it.”

“It has? I mean- I knew it was a dark book, but it didn’t feel that much darker.” James replied with a shrug, taking a quick flick through the particular pages he had folded over to show Regulus when the male had woken up. “I did find a couple of rituals that might work but I’m not entirely certain that they would allow him to get his body back.” James explained as he held the book out to Regulus, who carefully took the book and glanced through the pages.

“Hmm… yeah, I don’t think these would work to make him ‘mortal’ again.” Regulus admitted, adding air quotations for dramatic flair as his eyes continued glancing over the pages. He ran his fingers over the pages, chewing on his bottom lip. However, his fingers halted when he felt a pull from one of the pages further in the book. Letting out a quiet breath, Regulus flicked towards the page his finger had stopped on.

“Found something?” James enquired curiously, leaning forwards towards Regulus and his gaze focused on the book.

“Maybe…” Regulus uttered in response, starting to read over the page and his eyes widened the further he read. “Shit…” He mumbled, glancing between James and the book for a couple of seconds.

“You found it?” James questioned, his whole body perking up as he observed Regulus closely.

“Listen to this.” Regulus started, allowing his fingers to follow the words as he read. “It’s a regeneration potion that aims to restore a disfigured wizard to their true and whole physical form. Known as an old piece of dark magic, it only has three ingredients that need to be added to a large cauldron.” He explained, face paling slightly as he read over the ingredients list.

“Reg?” James urged the male, tilting his head slightly.

“The ingredients… I don’t know how we’ll track any of these.” Regulus admitted and read over the three ingredients a couple more times. “It needs the bone of the father, flesh of a servant and the blood of the enemy. And once all the ingredients have been added to the cauldron, this incantation must be repeated.” Regulus continued, clearing his throat softly. “Bone of the father, unknowingly given, you will renew your son. Flesh of the servant, willingly sacrificed, you will revive your master. Blood of the enemy, forcibly taken, you will resurrect your foe.” He repeated from the page, slowly lifting his gaze back to James. “There’s no way to try and track any of this since we have no clue what servant or enemy he might choose to perform the ritual.”

“We could try and find his father’s grave though.” James suggested, smiling reassuringly towards the male.

Regulus took a soft breath and nodded, “right, yes. If we find Riddle Sr’s grave, I should be able to add a ward that will tell us if anyone goes near the grave. We just need to find it.”

James nodded in agreement and let out a quiet hum. “That shouldn’t be too difficult since I’m fairly certain that you have every recorded entry of the Riddles going back the past century.” He stated, standing up from his seat and made his way across to the pile of paperwork Regulus had found about Tom Riddle and his family history, allowing his hands to card through the papers on the desk with a soft hum.

“I remember that his grandparents had been buried in a graveyard in… Little Hangington? Hambleton? Something like that.” Regulus replied, putting the book down on the pile that had steadily grew by the side of his chair.

“Little Hangleton.” James replied, plucking a sheet of parchment out from the pile and turned towards Regulus, leaning back against the desk. “The final resting place of Thomas Riddle, his wife Mary Riddle and their son Tom Riddle Sr is in the Little Hangleton graveyard.” He read from the parchment and raised an eyebrow slightly. “This is interesting… apparently, they were all murdered by a Morfin Gaunt, the brother of Merope. He admitted to it when the auror’s questioned him about their murders, he was proud of himself for killing them.” He continued, a frown growing on his face.

“Morfin Gaunt is a well-known blood supremacist, Jamie. He had already spent three years in Azkaban for hexing Tom Riddle Sr all because Merope was in love with the muggle. Obviously, the ministry didn’t take kindly to this and sent an investigator to speak with him. An investigator that was assaulted by both Morfin and his father. So, it wasn’t a complete surprise when he admitted to murdering the Riddles. His hatred towards muggles was… intense… to say the least.” Regulus explained as he stood up from his chair, wrapping the blanket around his shoulders as he stepped closer to James.

“Why do you sound like you don’t believe the story?” James questioned, sending a knowing look Regulus’ way as Regulus stopped in front of him.

“Because I don’t.” Regulus replied simply with a light shrug. “Don’t get me wrong, Morfin Gaunt believes rather strongly in pure-blood supremacy. And he did hex Tom Riddle Sr all because Merope Gaunt was infatuated with him. He probably could have murdered the Riddles, but he didn’t. There’s absolutely no doubt in my mind that Tom killed his father and grandparents. Nobody hated Tom Riddle Sr more than his own son since it’s his fault that young Tom had to grow up in an orphanage. He wanted nothing to do with his own son. Rumour has it that Merope gave Tom Sr a love potion, which wore off when she fell pregnant. He wanted nothing to do with her or their son.” He clarified, gently taking the parchment for James and allowed his gaze to quickly look over the words with a quiet hum.

“Should I be alarmed about how much you know about Tom Riddle and his family history?” James questioned seriously with a soft smile on his face, allowing his fingers to gently brush through Regulus’ curls.

Regulus shook his head slightly and put the parchment back on the desk with the rest of the paperwork, allowing his eyes to land back on James. “No because I knew most of that since long before I started researching Tom Riddle’s family. I’m part of the Noble and Most Ancient House of Black, remember? Maman made sure we knew everything about every house of the Sacred Twenty-Eight and since the Gaunts are a member, many purebloods know the rumours.” He explained with a soft sigh. “It just happens that I can finally add names to the muggle Merope was in love with and the son that came from their apparent love-drugged story.” He added.

“You and your brain scare me.” James stated with a teasing grin growing on his lips, gently tugging Regulus closer into a soft hug. “First thing in the morning, we’ll travel to Little Hangleton Graveyard and set up a ward at Riddle Sr’s grave.” He told the male, allowing his fingers to continue brushing through Regulus’ black curls.

“We should go now.” Regulus argued, although he made no attempt to pull away from James’ embrace.

“You’re exhausted, Reg. We know what our next steps are, so we will get started on them after a good night’s rest.” James countered sternly, wrapping an arm around Regulus as he started to move the two of them out of the library.

“Perhaps we should try to track the sale of large cauldrons too. It’s less likely to have any real results since its possible that he may already have one, but it can’t hurt, right?” Regulus suggested, the extent of his exhaustion suddenly hitting him like he had walked into a solid, brick wall. He allowed James to walk them out of the library and towards his bedroom, practically collapsing into his bed the moment he was close enough. He crawled under the covers and stretched his arms as the exhaustion set in, his head becoming drowsy from it.

“We can definitely give it a try, Reg.” James confirmed as he carefully tucked blankets around Regulus with a fond smile on his face.

“I don’t understand how you aren’t more tired than me…” Regulus mumbled out of the blue, staring up at James for a couple of moments. “You’ve been staying awake longer than I have.” He continued in a soft mutter as he buried his head in his pillow.

“Because I’ve had an extra two years of sleeping than you.” James replied cryptically and let out a soft sigh. “It’s normal for you to exhaust yourself quicker after everything you’ve already been through.” He added with a reassuring smile. “Go to sleep, Reg.” He told the male as he straightened himself upright, getting ready to leave the room.

A moment later, the carefully tucked covers closest to James were flung open and Regulus beckoned James closer with a lazy wave of his arm. “You’re supposed to be going to sleep.” James murmured fondly, trying to retuck the covers around Regulus.

Regulus sleepily reached his hand out to grasp James’ arm and stopping him from his retucking. “Stay with me.” Regulus mumbled, emphasising his point by flinging the covers open again. “It’s easier to sleep when you’re around.” He admitted, silvery-green eyes staring up at James as a silent plead.

James pretended to sigh dramatically for a moment before climbing into the bed with Regulus, pulling the covers over himself and began brushing his fingers through Regulus’ hair once more. “So demanding.” He muttered affectionately, hesitating a moment before gently pulling Regulus closer.

“I wish things were different…” Regulus admitted softly as he allowed his head to rest against James’ chest.

“What do you mean, love?” James replied, bending his neck slightly to observe Regulus with his furrowed eyebrows.

“I wish the war was over… that it had ended years before we had to get involved. Maybe then I wouldn’t have had to lose you…” Regulus whispered quietly, his voice devastatingly quiet as his eyes closed. “You know… there’s a part of me that wants to hate Lily for having you… but the rest of me just can’t hate her. Not when I love her so much… she’s an amazing friend to me, always has been. I have always loved her in my own way, you know.  And I’m happy for her, for you. Happy that you both found each other and get to be happy together. But… I also hate it. Does that make me a horrible person?” He rambled, vulnerability overtaking his voice as the need to sleep grew stronger.

“No, love. It doesn’t make you a horrible person. It makes you human.” James replied in a soft whisper, his fingers carding softly through Regulus’ hair. “You’ve always loved each other in your own way, Reg. And that will never change.”

“We need to end this war, Jamie. For her… for your son… for you.” Regulus whispered, voice growing groggier as he finally slipped into unconsciousness.

“For you too, Regulus. Because even though you don’t think it’s true, you deserve happiness too.” James whispered, fully aware that Regulus couldn’t hear him but feeling the need to say it anyway as a couple of tears rolled down his cheeks.

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Taking a quick glance around the graveyard, Regulus’ nose scrunched up in distaste. There was dark magic that seemed to fill the air in both the graveyard and the immediate surrounding area, a dark magic that almost felt suffocating. “It’s been nearly forty years since the Riddles were murdered and yet, the dark magic is still infecting this place.” He shuddered as he looked towards James.

“Well, if he hates his father as much as you think he does, it’s not completely surprising. By all accounts, he wanted them completely obliterated.” James replied, a look of uneasiness growing on his features. “You don’t think… maybe… that he could be hiding around here, do you?” He inquired, taking a step closer to Regulus as he glanced around the graveyard vigilantly.

Regulus took another quick glance around the graveyard, reaching to his side and grasped James’ hand and reassuringly squeezed it. “I doubt it. He still hated them, so I don’t think he would voluntarily hide here. Besides, since Dumbledore knows his true identity, it wouldn’t be smart of him to hide near the grave of his father. It’s likely one of the first places the old oaf checked if he suspects that Tom isn’t really dead.” He replied, squeezing James’ hand once more before carefully making his way through the graveyard, meandering around the various headstones whilst his eyes searched for the familiar names.

James followed Regulus, keeping a grip on the male’s hand as they searched across the graveyard. His gaze slowly drifted towards a large figure towards the back of the graveyard, making him stop his movements and squeeze Regulus’ hand to get his attention.

“What is it?” Regulus asked, voice soft as he looked towards James and his eyebrows furrowed, following the male’s gaze towards the figure. “It couldn’t be…” He muttered, carefully making his way over to the large bronze sculpture of the angel of death, its wing wrapped securely around the headstone of Thomas Riddle, Mary Riddle and Tom Riddle Sr.

The bronze statue had obviously tarnished over time, turning the once warm, brown statue into a cold green colour that stretched across all the intricacies of the statue, including the ribcage hidden behind a cloak.

“A little dramatic, don’t you think?” Regulus muttered in an attempt to lighten the mood as the two of them stopped in front of the statue and headstone. “A flair for the dramatic must run in the family…” James mumbled softly in response, his grip on Regulus’ hand only tightening as he stared at the statue.

Regulus carefully ran a precursory spell over the grave, taking a soft breath of relief as he realised that there were no other spells protecting or watching the grave. “From what I can tell, he hasn’t been here to collect that bone yet.” He told James in a hushed voice, gently pulling his hand away from James’ and took a step closer to the headstone, allowing his fingers to carefully run across the cold stone.

“Reg… please hurry so we can get as far away from this place as possible.” James pleaded, already feeling slightly antsy after Regulus let go of his hand. It didn’t help that he was already feeling vulnerable not having his wand, since Regulus was using it.

Regulus glanced back towards James and smiled reassuringly, nodding lightly. “Don’t worry, Jamie. I’m creating the ward now.” He replied, holding the wand securely in his hand and muttering a soft incantation under his breath, allowing the ward to form around the headstone and the grave. If anyone went near the immediate area, he would know.

Once the ward was in place and Regulus had added some extra protection to make it harder for anyone to detect the ward, he took a quick step back and quickly grasped James’ hand again. “Right… let’s go.” He whispered and looked towards James, who nodded quickly in agreement.

“It’s not often that anyone visits that grave.” A voice spoke from a few feet behind the two.

Both James and Regulus quickly span around, Regulus’ grip on James’ wand tightening on instinct. Behind them, an old woman stood with a basket of flowers on her arm and her soft blue eyes regarding them with curiosity. “No one visited it for thirty-eight years and then in the span of seven months, three people have visited it. Very strange indeed.” The woman explained, curiosity swimming in her eyes as she eyed both James and Regulus. “Though, you both look far too young to know them.”

Regulus and James exchanged a look before looking back towards the mysterious elderly woman. “We think that we may know his son.” Regulus started carefully, motioning towards the last name on the headstone. “And his son has seemingly gone into hiding, so we wanted to be sure that he wasn’t here.”

“Ah, the young Riddle boy? Pure evil that boy is. He murdered them, you know. Another was taken away for their murder but everyone who lived here at the time knows that it was the Riddle boy.” She explained, seemingly still observing James and Regulus closely. “That whole family was disliked by the community. There was always something... off about them.” She admitted before taking a quick glance around the area and sighed softly. “Best not to discuss them here. If you would like to know more, you can come with me for a spot of tea. I can tell you everything I know since I was here to witness it.” The woman offered.

Another look was shared between Regulus and James before the latter nodded slowly in agreement. “We would appreciate that. As long as it wouldn’t be a bother for you.” James replied softly.

“Not at all.” The woman declared as she started making her way out of the graveyard, beckoning the two along with her. “I think I have some cream cake we can have too. The village is just a couple of minutes walk from here.” She explained once James and Regulus started to follow her, their hands still clasped together tightly although Regulus had put James’ wand back in his holster.

The air only seemed to grow thicker with dark magic as they approached the start of the small village, which could be seen from the graveyard. “It was there that they died.” The woman explained, motioning across to a house near the outskirts of the village which had been completely obliterated. “The family was murdered and the house set on fire. The fire took a long time to die out, no matter how much water was used against the flames, they only seemed to grow.”

There was another quick glance between James and Regulus. “Reg… a fire that can’t be put out with water and burns for a long time, doesn’t that sound a little bit like…” James trailed off, glancing back towards the remains of the burnt-out house. Regulus nodded slowly in agreement and squeezed James’ hand. “I know… Fiendfyre.” He confirmed with a soft sigh.

As the three continued to make their way through the village, the dark magic seemed to dissipate slowly. It still seemed to coat the entire village, but it became easier to breath the further away from the house they went.

They slowly came to a stop outside a small cottage near the opposite end to the village that the Riddle house was. The cottage was quaint with a cobblestone path leading up to the front door. Curiously, there was aloe vera plant hanging in front of the front door and along with array of lavender bushes that decorated the front garden, Regulus became convinced that this woman took part in art that was muggle witchcraft.

He only became more certain of that fact as he noticed some sort of star that had been carved into the wood of the front door.

“Come in, dears.” The woman spoke as she opened the door wider to allow the two inside. James made his way inside first, thanking the woman politely as he took his shoes off. Regulus took another quick glance around, eyebrow quirking up slightly as he noticed the salt that had been sprinkled across the doorway. “To ward off evil spirits?” He questioned softly as he looked between the salt and the marking on the door.

The woman observed Regulus for a moment, curiosity seemingly growing behind her blue eyes before she nodded in confirmation. “Indeed. You’ve been around the village. Don’t you think that there’s something evil in the air?” She questioned. Regulus nodded slowly, glancing back towards the village for a moment. “Indeed, something evil in the air.” He admitted and stepped into the house, taking off his shoes. “What is that symbol marked in your door?”

“That, dear, is the Auseklis Cross. It is a symbol to drive away evil spirits. It is similar to a star, since stars are known for bringing light to banish the darkness.” She explained as she made her way into the house, guiding the two towards the kitchen and motioned towards the table. “Take a seat, dears. I’ll prepare us some tea.” She smiled politely.

Both Regulus and James took a seat at the table and had a silent conversation with their eyes as the woman prepared them some tea, cutting up some cream cake and putting the slices on three separate plates. She brought the plates over with some forks and a sweet smile on her face, the cake on James and Regulus’ plate much larger than the one on the woman’s plate. “You must let me know what you think. It’s a new recipe that I’m trying.” She told the two.

“Thank you, uhm… ma’am?” James replied, trying to find any clue to the woman’s name around the room.

“Ah, you can call me Majorie, dear.” The woman, who they now knew was Majorie, introduced herself.

“Thank you, Majorie.” James corrected himself with a soft smile, clearing his throat softly as he motioned between himself and Regulus. “I’m James, and this is Regulus.” He introduced.

“Well, it is lovely to meet you both.” Majorie replied as she poured out some tea for them in her fancy china, bringing across the three cups and took a seat with the two at the table. “Help yourself to milk and sugar, dears.” She stated, motioning towards the bowl containing sugar and the small jug with the milk.

Regulus ran a quick wandless, wordless spell to make sure that the cake and tea hadn’t been tampered with. Not that he didn’t think that Majorie wasn’t just a kind old woman who wanted to help them, but he wanted to make sure that they were completely safe. Sending a quick nod towards James once he was certain that they were fine, James was quick to add some milk to both his and Regulus’ tea and start eating the cream cake.

“So, you knew the Riddle family?” Regulus questioned curiously, eating some of his own cake with a quiet hum.

“Yes, I did. I had only just turned thirty myself when they were murdered. After their deaths, many people moved away from the village because of the evil that lurks but I didn’t. I’m not entirely sure if the evil will ever leave this place but I will not allow it to force me away from my home.” Majorie explained, taking a soft sip of her tea. “I can vaguely remember when Tom first started going out with Merope. It was always odd. He had been adamant about pursuing nothing with her until one day he was positively head over heels for the girl and they were set to get married. Very odd indeed.”

“What was odd about it? Couldn’t he have just changed his mind?” James pressed, curiosity building in his eyes as he observed Majorie intently.

“Oh no, not Tom dear. You see, Merope had liked him since they were young teens. She had tried countless times to convince him to court her, even though she knew that her brother and father did not approve of him. Every time she tried, Tom denied her and insisted that she move on. He had continued with his denials up until two weeks before they got married, then all of a sudden, they were in love and were getting married. Everything seemed perfect until Merope fell pregnant with their son. Tom insisted that she had him under a spell, that he never wanted to marry her. Of course, many in the village didn’t believe him. They were certain that he was just trying to skirt his responsibilities, and he certainly did in the end. The last many of us heard, Merope had died giving birth to their son and we heard nothing else.” She told the two.

“Until the Riddles were murdered?” Regulus questioned with a knowing look in his eyes.

“Until the Riddles were murdered.” Majorie confirmed with a firm nod. “The family had been practically outcasted from the village, shamed for their abandonment of the young Riddle boy. Many who were living in the village at the time will refuse to admit that they saw anything the night the Riddles died but they are all lying.” She stated, taking a mouthful of cake before continuing. “There was a loud argument at the Riddle house. I happened to be passing and heard them, saw a young boy that looked so much like Tom. I continued on my way, trying to mind my own business when there were suddenly three bright green flashes, almost like lightning. The arguing had stopped, and the irate young man stormed out of the house. The look on his face was downright murderous. I hid myself away from sight when the fire started. The flames spread across the house rather quickly, even threatened to swallow up the rest of the village. Luckily, the Riddle house was far enough away from nearby houses that the whole village wasn’t lost. Some of the nearby houses were scorched but have been long repaired now. But the evil has remained in the village ever since.” She concluded with a soft sigh.

“What happened- to the young Riddle?” Regulus asked carefully, taking a sip of his tea. “No one knows, dear. He disappeared as quickly as he came and the next thing we knew, Morfin was taking the blame for the murders and the police believed him.” Majorie replied softly, looking between the two with a warmth in her eyes. “You think that you know the young Riddle boy? That he is in hiding?”

Regulus glanced towards James before nodding slowly, clearing his throat after another sip of tea. “Yes. He is- well- he’s not a nice man. He has done a lot of bad things, and everyone believes that he is gone. But we happen to know that he isn’t.” Regulus explained as vaguely as he could, motioning between himself and James.

Majorie let out a soft hum of thought, nodding slowly in understanding. “So, the two of you are trying to find him?”, “and try to stop him.” James confirmed with a curt nod.

Majorie’s eyes seemed to soften as she heard James, a sad sigh leaving her lips as she nodded. “I see. That is certainly not very fair to the two of you. You both seem so young; this burden should not be placed on your shoulders. Just, please be careful. That Riddle boy is bad news, and I meant it when I told you that he is evil, the purest kind of evil.” She warned the two.

“Thank you, Majorie.” Regulus replied sincerely before taking a soft gasp in remembrance. “Majorie… you mentioned earlier that in the past seven months, three people have been to visit the Riddle grave. Now, I’m assuming two of those people are us but who was the third?” He enquired curiously.

Majorie nodded slowly along with Regulus’ words, leaning back in her chair with a soft hum. “Yes, I remember that in the evening on November 1^st last year, a man was stood at the Riddle grave. It was odd because, as I mentioned before, no one has ever visited their grave. He was an older man with a rather lengthy beard, and he was wearing a strange outfit, these long robes and a purple cloak that swept on the ground as he walked. I also vaguely remember that he was wearing spectacles. Half-moon ones I think, though I could be wrong. He seemed to be searching for something but can’t have found it since he left and never returned.” She explained, eyebrows furrowing as she recounted what the mysterious man looked like.

Regulus and James exchanged a knowing look between each other which seemed to have James questioning and Regulus replying with certainty.

‘Dumbledore?’, ‘Dumbledore.’

“By the look you seem to be exchanging, I assume you know who this man was?” Majorie questioned, amusement in her eyes as she looked between the two with a warmth remaining in her eyes.

“Yes. We do.” Regulus confirmed, forcing himself to look back towards Majorie with a reassuring smile. “Luckily, it’s not someone who means harm to you or your village.” He added quickly, a part of him wanting to try and reassure the woman.

“I’m glad to hear it.” Majorie replied softly, taking another bite of her slice of cake. “Now, tell me. What do you think of the cake?” She asked with a warm smile growing on her face.

The cake was, in fact, delicious and Majorie had insisted on James and Regulus taking the rest of it home with them, telling them that it was easy enough for her to bake herself another one. She had told them about her son, who lived up in Scotland with his partner and their children. She even told them about her job as a baker, which explained the delicious cake. By the end of their conversation, both James and Regulus found themselves not wanting to leave but they both promised Majorie that they would be back to visit her, and she would keep an eye out for anything suspicious happening close to the Riddle house and the grave.

Majorie had also insisted on giving both James and Regulus black tourmalines, telling them that the crystals would “help keep you both safe and shield against negative energies and evil spirits.” She had been insistent, telling them that if they had to try to find and stop someone as evil as the young Riddle boy, she wanted to try to protect them in the best way she could.

James and Regulus had both taken the crystals with gratitude, even though both didn’t fully believe that the crystals could really protect them. Funnily enough though, they both never left Grimmauld Place without the crystals. James’ was attached to a golden chain he wore around his wrist and Regulus’ was attached to a silver chain he wore around his neck.

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

It took until the last week of August for any proper progress to be made, though it wasn’t necessarily for the better. There had been no movement in Little Hangleton, which they had taken to visit every couple of weeks to spend the afternoon with Majorie. They had also tried to track the sale of large cauldrons but there was no luck with that either. No, the big break came in the form of Lucius Malfoy.

Regulus and James were in the library, searching through the vast number of books for any spells that may help when they finally managed to locate Tom Riddle. They were both sat on the sofa in the library, Regulus’ legs rested across James’ lap as they shared a blanket. It felt terribly domestic between them and Regulus found himself both enjoying it and feeling guilty, knowing that James had both Lily and Harry waiting for him.

He had tried to get James to go and visit them a few times. Actually- he tried multiple times a week, but James insisted that everything was fine. That he and Lily had talked about it, that she knew it might be a while before they saw each other again. He just kept repeating the fact that Harry was safe and that was all that mattered.

Their library session was passing as smoothly as it usually did until Regulus felt the wards of Grimmauld Place vibrating, alerting him to two visitors. He instantly sat up from his spot and stared towards the open door of the library.

“Reg? What is it?” James questioned, watching Regulus with concern growing in his eyes.

A second later, Regulus was stood up with James’ wand firmly in his grip. “Someone’s here.” He replied quietly, eyebrows furrowing. “It has to be a family member… they’re the only ones with access through the wards.” He uttered in explanation, taking slow and silent steps towards the door of the library.

“Stay here.” Regulus told James as he glanced back at the male with a smile that he hoped was reassuring. Then, he made his way out of the library, shutting the door behind him and silently made his way through the house until he heard the familiar voice of Narcissa.

“Lucius, let’s just hurry and grab what you need, hm? Those elf heads always perturb me and Draco is waiting for us.” Narcissa spoke towards her husband, who smiled softly at his wife and nodded. “Of course, my love. The book is in Orion’s old study. I shall go and grab it now so we can leave.” He explained, making his way up the stairs and towards Orion’s study.

Why was Lucius Malfoy leaving books at Grimmauld Place? Regulus knew that Malfoy Manor was a large estate, there was no reason for Lucius to store things at Grimmauld Place.

Regulus ensured he was hidden as Lucius made his way up the stairs and silently followed the man into Orion’s study. Using the door as cover, Regulus peeked through the crack between the door and the doorframe, remaining completely silent as he watched.

Lucius took a quick look around the room, his nose crinkling in disgust as he noticed the elf-heads lining the wall above Orion’s desk. He made his way around the desk, using his wand to unlock one of the warded drawers and pulled out what seemed to be a journal. Regulus’ eyebrows furrowed as he looked at the journal, searching for any sign of what it could be. However, he quickly got his answer when a dark magic seeped through the doorway. A dark magic that Regulus was familiar with- a dark magic that was in the locket. Another horcrux.

Regulus felt his heart drop at the realisation, forcing himself to swallow harshly as he leaned against the doorframe in disbelief. This was bad news- fucking horrible news frankly. Because that meant that there was more than one horcrux and Regulus had no clue just how many there were. What he did know was that he needed to grab that horcrux before Lucius could hide it away again.

So, he waited until Lucius’ back was turned away from the door, seemingly examining the journal closely. Taking silent steps into the room, Regulus raised James’ wand at Lucius and muttered a quiet “stupefy”, watching as Lucius fell on the floor with a thud. Upon closer inspection, Regulus realised with a relieved sigh that Lucius was out cold.

“Reggie?”

Regulus jumped as he spun towards the door, letting out another relieved sigh when he saw James watching him intently. “Jamie… I told you to stay in the library.” He whispered, a scolding tone still creeping into his voice.

“I got worried…” James admitted sheepishly and looked back towards the knocked-out Lucius Malfoy. “Apparently I didn’t need to be.” He joked quietly.

Regulus smiled lightly and shook his head, slowly picking up the journal with a frown on his face. If he hadn’t been sure that it was a horcrux, the small inscription of ‘T.M.Riddle’ had made the idea a certainty.

“Reg? What is it?” James questioned, looking at the journal with suspicion. He could feel the dark magic seeping out of it, and he felt his stomach drop, silently questioning if it was what he feared it could be.

“Jamie, can you grab me one of my blank journals?” Regulus questioned, knowing that James was figuring out what the journal in his hands was. “And please be careful, Narcissa is still downstairs.” He warned the male and stared back at the journal, which seemed to be more like a diary of sorts.

James nodded, quietly making his way out of the room and returning not thirty seconds later with one of Regulus’ journals. “It’s a horcrux, isn’t it?” He questioned hesitantly as Regulus took the blank journal from him, reaching out to take the diary from Regulus.

“Yeah… it is.” Regulus replied with a defeated sigh, taking a quick look over his blank journal with his eyebrows furrowing in concentration as he cast a ward over the journal that mimicked dark magic, pouring more of his own magic into the ward until it mimicked the same darkness as the real horcrux. He had never been more grateful that he had started reading that book on wards that was sat waiting for him in the library.

“Can you transfigure it to make it look like the real horcrux?” Regulus questioned softly as he looked back towards James, who seemed to be reading Regulus’ expressions for a few seconds before he nodded. “Yeah, I can. Just show me the inscription, okay?”

The two huddled closely together as James cast a transfiguration spell on Regulus’ journal, making sure it looked exactly like the real diary and lowered the wand. “You think this will be enough to trick him?” James questioned in a hushed whisper. “I hope so.” Regulus replied with a soft sigh, bending down to put the fake horcrux back in Lucius’ hand.

“Regulus?” A voice filled with disbelief called from the doorway.

Regulus froze, chewing softly on his bottom lip as he slowly stood up straight and turned towards a stunned-looking Narcissa in the doorway. “Hello, Cissy.” He responded politely, eyeing his cousin wearily since he had knocked Lucius out.

Narcissa seemed to be frozen for a moment, eyes staring at Regulus in complete disbelief before taking a couple of steps into the room. “It’s really you?” She questioned in a quiet voice before walking towards Regulus with more certainty in her strides, pulling the male into a hug the moment she reached him. “Thank Salazar you’re safe!” She declared, voice growing slightly wobbly and filled with emotion. “I thought you were dead.” She whispered, squeezing Regulus as tightly as she could without hurting him.

“It’s a long story but in a way, I was dead for just over two years.” Regulus admitted softly as he wrapped his arms around Narcissa, relaxing into her embrace. “But James found me and brought me back.” He added, motioning towards the male who was stood beside him.

Narcissa slowly looked across at James, her eyebrows furrowed, and a mixture of confusion and recognition filled her eyes. James chewed on his bottom lip as he smiled lightly towards her. “When…? When did he find you?” Narcissa questioned quietly, eyeing James with suspicion for a moment.

“Back in November.” Regulus replied, pulling back slightly from the hug in confusion. “Why?” He countered, staring at Narcissa intently as he tried to read her emotions. Why was she looking at James with such… suspicion? Scepticism?

Narcissa’s gaze remained on James, who slowly shook his head towards her and silently pleaded with her. Her suspicion faded after a couple of seconds, replaced with some form of understanding as she looked back at Regulus. “No reason. I just wanted to know how long you had been back without bothering to let me know.” She spoke, tone growing in a mixture of frustration and chastisement. “Didn’t you think that, perhaps, I would have liked to know that you weren’t really dead.” She scolded the younger male, her full attention back on him.

“I am sorry, Cissy. But I couldn’t risk it, not after what I did when I technically died.” Regulus replied with an apologetic gaze as he glanced back towards the unconscious Lucius.

Narcissa’s gaze swiftly followed Regulus’, and worry grew on her face for a moment. “Pray tell why you decided to render my husband unconscious.” She stated, pulling away from Regulus to cross her arms and an expectant look formed on her face.

Regulus’ brain scrambled for a moment for any viable explanation before he let out a quiet sigh of defeat. He could never lie to Narcissa, not when he was a child and not now. She always just knew when he tried to lie to her. “I needed that diary.” He mumbled, motioning towards the diary that James was still holding.

Narcissa’s eyebrows furrowed as she looked at the diary, a quiet hum escaping her lips in understanding. “The Dark Lord gave that to Lucius. I still clearly remember the day he did. Lucius looked so proud of himself, and he wasn’t the only one, Bella was quite impressed with herself too. I, myself, could never see the importance of that diary but it must be something important if the dark magic that emanates it means anything. Why do you need it?” She enquired with a slight tilt of her head, posture remaining painfully uptight just like it was when they were children. Regulus had allowed his shoulders to drop over time, but Narcissa still looked as regal as ever.

“I can’t tell you, Cissy- no seriously- I can’t tell you. If you knew, it could possibly make you a target and I will not let that happen. I need it and it is important.” Regulus stated, eyes locked with Narcissa’s as he tried to emphasise just how important it was that he had the diary. He saw the exact moment that she had accepted his explanation.

“It’s true then…” She trailed off with a soft sigh, “the rumours that you betrayed the Dark Lord.” Narcissa clarified, reaching out to rest her hands on Regulus’ shoulders and gently squeeze them. “Have you joined the order then?” She questioned, no question in her voice as though she already knew the answer but just wanted Regulus to admit it to her face.

“No.” Regulus denied instantly, his eyebrows furrowing as his lips curled in disgust. “Please don’t think quite that lowly of me, Cissa. I would never join Dumbledore in any war. You could say that I- we- as in, me and James, are on our own side of the war. And if you would wish to have the inside scoop, Cissy, we’re the winning side. So, I would suggest that you deflect to us whilst you can.” He replied confidently, although the idea of more than one horcrux existing was looming over him like a dark storm cloud set to ruin his day.

Narcissa’s eyebrow quirked up in curiosity, a soft smile spreading across her lips as she feigned thought with a soft hum. “The winning side you say? You might just tempt me, dear cousin.” She admitted, a soft sigh leaving her lips. “I have a son now, you know. Draco.” She started, looking at Regulus with sadness growing in her eyes. “I wanted to make you his godfather, even if you were believed to be dead. But, of course, that is not the way things are done. So, we decided to make Severus his godfather in the end. But it should have been you, Regulus.” She declared with a dejected sigh.

Narcissa seemed to be in deep thought for a moment before she spoke up again, looking at Regulus with a serious gaze, intense with sincerity. “I don’t want my son to be pulled into another war, he is too important to me, and you know that the war will start up again, its just a matter of time- when not if. So, if you can reassure me that you will end this war, I will do all that I can to help you.” She vowed.

“Cissa…” Regulus trailed off, still holding the woman’s gaze with his own as his brows set in confidence. “I will end this war; we will end this war. For the future generation, for Draco and Harry,” Regulus spoke, glancing towards James with a soft smile. “And for all the children that never asked to be dragged into a war in the first place.”

James smiled warmly back towards Regulus and nodded firmly, confidently.

Narcissa nodded curtly and hugged Regulus once more, pressing a soft kiss to his forehead. “It is a great relief to know that you are still alive, Regulus. And I will do everything in my power to help you end this war. Just- please stay in touch. Use the same method we used as children, and it will keep our correspondence secret.” She instructed the male, stepping back and looked towards her husband with a sympathetic smile. “Perhaps, one day, he will open his mind and be able to help you. I’ve tried to change him for the better and he is becoming a better man… but his pride often gets in his way.” She admitted, using her wand to levitate one of the elf-heads form the wall and land just ahead of Lucius as though it had fallen and hit him.

“If anyone can change Lucius Malfoy for the better, it’s you.” Regulus told the woman with a reassuring smile. “I will be in touch, Cissa.” He vowed, holding his hand up as though to swear it to her.

“Good.” Narcissa replied, motioning towards the door with a soft smile. “You better both scarper. And I’ll get Lucius out of here and back to our son. I shall speak to you soon.” She told Regulus, who nodded in response and grabbed James’ hand, pulling him towards the door to leave the room.

Narcissa watched the two leave the room with sadness growing in her eyes. “You’ve both given so much…” She whispered sadly with a sigh, turning back towards Lucius and swayed her wand across his head with a soft “rennervate”, a sympathetic smile back on her face as Lucius regained consciousness. “There you are my darling.” She spoke fondly, helping the male sit up properly.

“My love, what happened?” Lucius questioned groggily, gratefully accepting Narcissa’s help to properly sit up.

“I told you that I never liked those elf-heads. One knocked you clean out, darling.” She explained, motioning towards the staged elf-head with a soft sigh and gently pressed kiss to Lucius’ head. “Now that you’ve got the book you wanted, lets go before those elf-heads decide to try and attack you again.” She uttered with a fondness in her voice as she watched her husband for a moment before helping him stand up. “I think it would be best if we flooed back rather than apparate. I wouldn’t want you hurting your head any further.” She suggested with concern laced in her tone.

“I agree that would be best, my love.” Lucius muttered in agreement as he stood up with Narcissa’s help, the fake diary clutched in his fingers.

Regulus watched from his hiding spot in the room beside Orion’s study as Narcissa and Lucius made their way down the stairs, the tension in his shoulders finally seeping away as the wards alerted him that the couple had left. Letting out a sigh of relief, he looked towards James with a soft smile. “That could have gone a lot worse.” He muttered and stepped out onto the landing, tugging James along with him to go back to the library.

“There’s one thing I don’t fully understand.” James admitted hesitantly as he followed behind Regulus, glancing between him and the diary in his hand. “Why is Cissy so willing to help me when her husband is a Death Eater?” Regulus guessed, glancing back towards James with a soft gaze. “Yes, and why did she marry him if she didn’t agree with his pure-blooded thinking?” James added.

Regulus paused his steps and turned towards James, “the same reason many people marry those they don’t always agree with. Because she loves him.” He informed James with a quiet chuckle, “don’t misunderstand her, Jamie. Cissy loves Lucius with her whole being. Merlin knows why but she does. But she’s also aware that now they have a son, he needs to be protected. Tom would have no qualms about using a young boy- a baby if it aided in his cause.”

James’ expression shifted for a moment, anger peeking its way through his hazel eyes as he slowly nodded. “Yeah, I got that impression about him.” He grumbled, making his way into the library with a light huff, leaving Regulus in momentarily confused daze.

Slowly shaking his head to try and clear his head, Regulus made his way into the library and took a seat beside James, eyebrows furrowed in concern as he slowly reached out to hold James’ hand. “You alright?” He questioned carefully.

James slowly nodded in response, taking a couple of deep breaths to allow his anger to dissipate for the moment. “Yeah, I’m fine. Sorry, that I just shoved by you. Sometimes it’s easy to forget just how far he would go to win the war.” He admitted, looking towards Regulus with a sheepish smile.

Regulus nodded, understanding growing in his eyes and he let out a soft hum of agreement. “You’re right. I doubt that there is anything he wouldn’t give up getting the power he wants. To him, we’re all disposable.” He confessed, gently taking the diary from James and examining it. “So, we just have to show him that we are not as disposable as he would like to think.” He added with a soft smile.

“And how are we going to do that?” James questioned with a soft chuckle, the anger that had been gathering in his tense shoulder completely disappearing, his own eyes drawn back to the diary.

“We’re going to find out just how many horcruxes he created, and I think that I have a pretty good idea where to start.” Regulus replied, silvery-green eyes fixated on the diary as a plan started forming in his head.

Chapter Text

It took just over a week for Regulus to convince James that his insane plan was the only viable option they had to try and find out either where other horcruxes could be hiding or how many more horcruxes there could be. Since neither of them had any real plan on how to find any other horcruxes that could be hidden out in the world, James’ obstinance started to wear down the longer Regulus tried to convince him.

He would have preferred to have just tried his plan and then apologised to James later for how reckless it was, but James Potter still knew Regulus very well, demanding to hear about his plan. The moment he had mentioned attempting to communicate with the part of Riddle’s soul that was hidden in the diary, James had refused and kept the diary as far away from Regulus as he could.

He could be very hard-headed sometimes. Luckily, Regulus was willing to wait him out and keep pressing the idea. Was he technically attempting to manipulate James into letting him test his theories? Yes- yes, he was. But Regulus had never been above using manipulation to get his own way.

So, Regulus wasn’t entirely surprised when in the afternoon on a random Thursday in September, just over a week since they discovered that there was more than one horcrux, James came into the library and passed Regulus with a defeated sigh. There was still a reluctance in his grip as Regulus took the diary.

“I still do not like the idea but it’s starting to look like we don’t really have any other choice.” James grumbled as he took a seat beside Regulus with a quiet sigh.

“It’s not like I’m chomping at the bit to try communicating with the soul of a prominent blood supremacist, James. But if there’s even the smallest chance that I can communicate with him, and he happens to let slip about where the other horcruxes are- well- I have to take the risk.” Regulus explained as his eyes remained glued on the diary, a feeling of unease settling in his stomach now that he had James’ permission to try. Not that he needed permission but he’d rather that then have to stupefy James just to take the diary.

“I know!” James replied defensively, eyes searching across Regulus’ face for a couple of seconds before his tense shoulders relaxed slightly and he let out a long sigh. “I know…” He repeated, voice far softer as he slowly looked towards the diary. “I could always try instead.” He suggested, already knowing that Regulus would refuse but still wanting to offer all the same.

“No offence to you Jamie, but this particular task will require a certain amount of cunning and manipulation. Tom isn’t just going to give me all the answers I want. I will need to trick them out of him. I’m going to try and out-manipulate the most manipulative dark wizard of our time.” Regulus stated with a soft sigh, placing the diary down on the desk that was in front of him and grabbed his quill and ink. “And it’s going to take time. I’ll need to try and build a rapport with him, and he will be more likely to build rapport with a pure-blooded Slytherin from a house of the Sacred Twenty-Eight then he is with a pure-blooded Gryffindor that he may already class as a blood traitor.” He added, smiling apologetically towards James as he heard another soft sigh of defeat.

“I guess you’re right… I’m going to be right here as you write though. I’m not going anywhere!” James insisted, elbow resting on the desk and eyed as Regulus carefully opened the diary.

“I’d never expect you to leave, Jamie.” Regulus reassured the male and grabbed his quill, taking a soft breath to try and steady himself. “Okay- we’re just testing the waters. It might not even work.” He whispered towards James, who moved across to sit on Regulus’ other side and gently clasped their hands together, nodding firmly. “Just testing if it’s possible to communicate.” James replied and instantly squeezed Regulus’ hand. “If anyone can do this, it’s you Reg.” He added after a couple of seconds, smiling reassuringly.

Nodding slowly, more for himself than James, Regulus cleared his throat and dipped his quill into his ink and brought it across to the blank page of the diary.

9^th September

Regulus stared at the ink on the page, softly chewing on his bottom lip as it started to dry, and he could feel his stomach drop in disappointment.

“Maybe it will just take a minute.” James suggested as he squeezed Regulus’ hand once more and smiled encouragingly. “Or we might be back to square one-” Regulus started, quickly cutting himself off as the ink seemed to seep into the page and completely disappear. His eyes widened slightly as he put the quill down, subconsciously moving to check a few of the pages behind to make sure the ink had really disappeared.

Trying to ignore the glimmer of hope that sparked in his chest, Regulus grabbed his quill once more and squeezed James’ hand before he started writing once more, holding his breath.

My name is Regulus Arcturus Black.

The ink seemed to seep through the pages and disappear much quicker the second time around. Except this time, a response came just below where Regulus had written.

My name is Tom Marvolo Riddle.

The breath that Regulus had been holding came out in the form of a quiet laugh, filled with disbelief. “It really works.” He whispered, sucking in a quick breath and turned to James quickly. “Quick, grab some parchment.” He demanded.

James complied with Regulus’ demand, eyebrows furrowed in confusion as he turned in his chair and grabbing a blank piece of parchment from the stack nearby. “Why?” He questioned softly, watching as Regulus grabbed James’ wand and quickly duplicated his quill and ink pot, pushing them towards the older male.

“I need you to copy down our conversation. It’s possible that if this is a much younger version of Tom, he’ll be more likely to slip up and make a mistake. If we copy down everything he writes, we might be able to catch any mistakes he does make.” Regulus explained as he pushed the quill into James’ hand.

Nodding slowly, James quickly dipped the quill into the ink pot and set himself up comfortably on the desk. “Okay- can you read out the replies you get so I don’t miss anything?” James requested and Regulus was quick to nod in response, priming himself to start writing once more.

His plan was working. And now, all he had to do was find out just how much this soul fragment knew and find all the answers he could get. Luckily, being a Death Eater gave him the greatest skill he needed for this job. He knew exactly how Tom Riddle wanted to be spoken to. Knew exactly how Tom Riddle wanted to be seen. So, Regulus would use that to his own advantage.

The same Riddle Family that is related to the Gaunt Family?

Yes. My mother was Merope Gaunt.

That means that you must be the last member of the Gaunt house still alive. Possibly even the last relative that can be traced back to Salazar Slytherin himself.

I am.

Does that mean that you have the gift of speaking Parseltongue?

I do.

Do you truly see speaking Parseltongue as a gift?

Of course. Those who associate being a Parselmouth with being evil are either ignorant, jealous or both. I know many Slytherins in particular who would be honoured to have such a gift.

Are you a Slytherin?

Yes. I am a Black and to be anything other than a Slytherin would bring shame onto my house. The other three houses are filled with filthy blood-traitors and mudbloods who are slowly diluting our magic and making us weaker. It is disgusting.

“Do people really believe all that?” James questioned, his eyebrows crashing together as he glanced between Regulus and the diary. “Does it really surprise you?” Regulus countered with a soft sigh, wincing slightly at the thought. “I used to believe that stuff too, you know. A lot of pureblood children are raised with the rhetoric that our magic is being diluted and weakened by muggleborns and half-bloods. The majority of the Sacred Twenty-Eight believe the stories of magic being weakened. That’s why there’s so much inbreeding between cousins and other family members. The families are so obsessed with keeping their bloodline pure that they completely ignore the complications that can come from inbreeding.” Regulus explained, eyes remaining on the diary as he eagerly awaited Tom’s response, fairly certain that he would approve of Regulus’ apparent stance on blood purity.

I couldn’t agree with you more. Magic is being diluted with muggle blood, and it has never been more imperative for purebloods to take a stand and save magic for the future generations.

A stand is already being taken but we are currently losing. Dumbledore is oppressing the purebloods with his filthy blood-traitor and mudblood order. He even believes that he has defeated our Lord, but it is only a matter of time before he re-emerges to lead the purebloods to victory. I just know it.

Dumbledore has always been the meddling sort, always desperate to be the leader of those he deems to be light.

I will admit that when I was younger and more fearful, I went to Dumbledore for help. I knew my parents wanted me to join the Dark Lord and fight to keep the magic strong, but I was weak and asked Dumbledore to help me. He refused. He condemned me down the path I find myself on and yet, he will insist that I am the evil one.  

You are not the first to be condemned by Albus Dumbledore, Regulus. He knew how loathsome my life outside of Hogwarts was but still insisted on me going back ‘home’ every Summer. His condemnation has made me stronger, and you will soon find the same.

I cannot wait to see the day Albus Dumbledore falls from the pedestal he placed himself on and if fighting him will cause that, then I shall fight until my last breath.

You say that the Purebloods are being led by a Dark Lord? Do you know who it is?

No one knows his real identity, just the name he refers to himself as. Lord Voldemort.

Lord Voldemort. Very interesting. If you truly wish to destroy Albus Dumbledore and save magic for the future generations, I may be able to help you. Are you still at Hogwarts?

Yes. I am in my last year.

I can help you, Regulus. I can teach you spells and other dark magic that your professors are too fearful to teach you.

And what would you like in return for your kindness, Tom?

I would like you to help me open the Chamber of Secrets.

Very well. I must go now but I shall be back in touch soon.

I look forward to it, Regulus.

As do I, Tom.

“What the hell is the Chamber of Secrets?” James questioned incredulously as Regulus closed the diary with a smug smirk growing on his face. “The first of many secrets that Tom Riddle is going to share with me.” Regulus replied, a soft smile overtaking his lips as he noticed the pure confusion on James’ face.

“The story about the Chamber of Secrets goes that Salazar Slytherin built a hidden chamber in Hogwarts which the other founders knew nothing about. According to the legend, Salazar Slytherin sealed the Chamber of Secrets so that no one would be able to open it until his ‘true heir’ arrived at the school. Only the heir would be able to unseal the chamber and unleash the horror within, using said horror to purge the school of all who were deemed unworthy to study magic.” Regulus explained, leaning back in his chair and rolling his shoulders slightly to try and ease the tension.

“How do you know all of this?” James inquired, resting his head against his hand as he observed Regulus with a soft gaze, his confusion slowly fading.

“Maman and father only allowed us to read certain books, the majority on the history of the Sacred Twenty-Eight. So, I know far more than I should about those families and Salazar Slytherin.” Regulus confessed with a light smile. “Now, I think that’s enough talking to a raging blood supremacist for today. I’ll make a proper plan of how I can try to trick Tom into telling me information he shouldn’t. It will probably help if I research some more dark magic, perhaps something similar to the horcruxes.” He suggested, more to himself than James as he stood up and started to walk over to the darker corner of the library.

“What made you stop?” James blurted out as he watched Regulus walk away.

“What do you mean?” Regulus questioned as he spun on his heel to face James once more, tilting his head slightly in confusion.

“Earlier… you said that you used to believe in all that blood supremacy bollocks. What made you stop believing it?” James clarified; his gaze soft as he observed Regulus closely.

Regulus took a soft breath, a look of acknowledgment and understanding dawning on his face. “You.” He admitted, cheeks flushing as he started to look around the room, deciding that the specks of dust in the air were very interesting all of a sudden. “Well- Sirius too. But it was mainly you. Even without knowing it, you showed me that way of thinking was wrong, and, over time, its meaning just stopped mattering to me.” He added and cleared his throat awkwardly, continuing on his journey to the dark corner of the library and leaving James in a slightly stunned silence and a smile widening on his face as the seconds passed.

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

The manipulation of Tom Riddle was slow and calculated. Regulus was patient. Regulus wrote back. Regulus, quite frankly, charmed the non-existent socks off this part of Tom Riddle’s soul. It took a month of constant correspondence for Regulus to reach the point where he thought he may be safely able to bring up the topic of horcruxes without Tom getting suspicious.

He had waited until after they had a few conversations about dark magic, Regulus casually mentioning some of the darker spells he had heard about from his family at gatherings where the adults hadn’t realised the children were listening. There were a few points in their conversations where Regulus could see the blatant manipulation that Tom was trying to use and although Regulus Black would never have fallen for such tactics, not even at seventeen, he replied in a manner that would have Tom Riddle believing that he was manipulating him.

He had warned James beforehand when he was planning on mentioning the topic of horcruxes to Tom, just so James could be prepared for their plan ultimately failing. Even though Regulus didn’t think that Tom would find the topic suspicious, that wasn’t a given. There was still a chance that Tom would figure out his plan and they would just have to destroy the diary.

So, the two ended up sat at the table in the kitchen with their shoulders pressed against one another. They had settled into the kitchen since it was much closer to the dungeon just in case they needed to destroy the diary. Regulus had the diary laid out in front of him, open on a random page as his quill hovered over the page. “Ready?” He questioned hesitantly.

James, who had his own parchment and quill to copy down the conversation, nodded slowly and let out a soft breath. “Ready.” He replied, his tone far more confident than Regulus’.

Gently pressing their shoulders together for a couple of seconds, Regulus nodded slowly and stared at the blank page for a couple of seconds. “Okay…” He whispered before finally bringing quill to the page.

Tom? You mentioned that you studied dark magic in your spare time at Hogwarts?

Yes, Regulus. I did.

I wonder if you might have heard of a piece of dark magic that I once read about in a book whilst at home over the Summer. I did try to find out more in the restricted section but none of the books even mention this certain piece of magic.

I may know the magic you are referring to. What is it called?

A horcrux.

Both James and Regulus seemed to hold their breath in anticipation, their eyes stuck on the blank page as they waited impatiently for a reply. It would seem that Tom was taking his time to send a response, which didn’t bode all too well.

Luckily, although it took a panic inducing minute for a reply to come, one did eventually seep into the page.

That is a dark piece of magic indeed, Regulus. A horcrux is more an object than a spell or enchantment. An object in which a wixen has hidden a detached fragment of their soul.

But, Tom, I don’t fully understand how that would work. There is no specific spell that can detach a fragment of one’s soul, is there?

There is one act that can split one’s soul. And I am sure that you can figure out what act that is.

Murder?

Precisely.

But I don’t fully understand how that works. If murder equates a horcrux being made then why are they not more common?

Because murder alone is not enough to create a horcrux. It just simply gives someone a fragment of their soul. That fragmented soul can be hidden in an object that is outside of a wixen’s body. So, even when that wixen is killed, the hidden fragmented soul remains earthbound and undamaged.

So, a wixen that has a horcrux cannot die?

Indeed.

“Why is he so willing to answer your questions about horcruxes? Surely, he realises that he might be revealing that he has horcruxes.” James stated, eyebrows furrowed together as he looked at Regulus in confusion.

“Because, he had made a point of bragging about how knowledgeable he is about dark magic and if he claimed to not know anything about horcruxes, it would risk me asking questions. Besides, he’s likely aware that all the information he has just told me is available in a book somewhere and if I went looking, I would find out anyway.” Regulus replied simply, eyes narrowing slightly as he looked at the blank page. “Also, he has basically implied that there is not viable way to destroy a horcrux. He hasn’t said it outright but he is hoping that because he hasn’t mentioned destroying them, I won’t think to question it either.” He added, a light chuckle rumbling from his chest which was cut short when ink pooled back onto the page once more.

Have you asked anyone else about this magic?

Regulus’ eyebrow raised slightly, and he let out a quiet hum. “Why, Tom? Who don’t you want me to ask about horcruxes?” He questioned quietly, speaking more to himself than the man beside him.

“How do you know that there’s someone he doesn’t want you asking?” James enquired as he observed Regulus closely, a light smile on his face as he could practically hear Regulus’ brain whirring through multiple thoughts all at once.

“Because, Jamie, Tom Riddle is an arrogant man who always thinks that he has the upper hand. He should naturally assume that he would be the first person I went to and, initially, he did. But there’s clearly someone at Hogwarts that he went to, someone who’s knowledge he probed to find out everything he could about horcruxes.” Regulus responded, lightly chewing on his bottom lip as he grumbled softly to himself. “But who? The defence professor whilst Tom was at Hogwarts would have been… Merrythought, perhaps? But she was too close to Dumbledore to ask…” He muttered to himself before letting out a quiet gasp in realisation. “Oh, of course.” He mumbled with a small smirk quirking the corners of his lips upwards, quickly moving his quill to respond.

No. I did wonder whether to ask Professor Slughorn about it since he’s more open to talk if given candied pineapple beforehand. But decided to ask you first, since you’re less likely to question my motives.

“Candied pineapple?” James questioned in amusement, the corners of his eyes creasing slightly to showcase his amusement. “Don’t ask.” Regulus retorted, waving his hand dismissively as a humoured smile flashed across his face.

Slughorn is still at Hogwarts? It is quite easy to bribe that man into a conversation but be careful just how much you share with him. He doesn’t enjoy conversations about Dark Magic and will likely inform Dumbledore if you try to ask.

I did notice that he seemed close to Dumbledore. Thank you for letting me know, I’ll steer away from asking him about any dark magic. Speaking of dark magic, I meant to ask if you know about any good hiding spots in the Castle? I have a couple of books that I wish to read but cannot be caught by anyone. I’ve tried all the hidden coves in the corridors but they’re all too exposed.

“What are you doing?” James questioned, alarm growing in his voice as he looked between Regulus and the diary. “Testing a theory.” Regulus replied instantly, eyes remaining on the page and watched as the ink seeped through the pages, Tom’s reply coming a couple of seconds later.

What are your books about?

Dark Magic. I managed to take a couple from my family’s library before returning to Hogwarts. Nothing too dark otherwise others would be alerted to it but dark enough. And I can’t trust my roommates to read them in my room.

Do you need somewhere you can practice dark spells as well?

Preferably but I know that will be more difficult.

Next time you are on the seventh-floor corridor, try thinking about a place you can practice in privacy. I often found myself finding the perfect place to hide things when necessary.

Thank you, Tom. I will give it a try.

Remember that you still need to help me open the Chamber of Secrets.

I remember, Tom. Once I return to Hogwarts after the Christmas break, I will find the perfect opportunity to help you.

And I will continue to aid you in your fight against Albus Dumbledore.

Thank you. I would not be able to do any of this without you. I am truly in your debt.

I look forward to our continued collaboration.

As do I.

Regulus closed the diary with an amused huff, a smirk growing on his lips as he pushed the diary away towards the middle of the table. “I should have known…” He muttered with a quiet chuckle, much to James’ confusion. “Reg- you know just how much I appreciate your brilliant brain, but I’m completely lost. Should have known what?”

Regulus’ smirk faltered into a soft smile as he listened to James, gently resting a hand on the male’ shoulder and gently squeezing it. “James- my dear, sweet Jamie. Not only has Tom revealed just who to ask about finding out how many horcruxes may be out there, he also revealed where he may have hidden one.” He explained vaguely, only making James more confused as he spoke. “Where?”

“The come and go room.” Regulus replied simply with a proud smile. “… the come and go room?” James repeated in an uncertain voice, still completely lost.

A quiet laugh escaped Regulus before he could stop himself, examining James’ look of utter confusion with a fondness growing in his chest. “Hey- it’s not funny! You’re making entirely no sense at all!” James retorted defensively, the look of annoyance on his face faltering slightly when Regulus reached out to gently rest his hand on James’ cheek.

“The come and go room is a room on the seventh-floor corridor. It provides a room when someone has a great need for it. One of the house elves at Hogwarts had mentioned it to me before but I didn’t even think anymore about it. But Tom mentioned using it to find the ‘perfect place to hide things’. And even though I’m fairly certain that the diary was the first horcrux that Tom made, he might just be arrogant enough to have hidden a horcrux in the come and go room after he made the diary.” Regulus explained, his voice soft and soothing as he allowed to thumb to gently caress over James’ cheekbone.

James took a couple of seconds to absorb what Regulus had told him, blinking slowly as he slowly started nodding. “Right… and if there is a horcrux in this ‘come and go room’, we’ll have to break into Hogwarts to get to it?” He asked softly, letting out a quiet hum as Regulus nodded in agreement. “Piece of cake.” He muttered sarcastically.

“It might be.” Regulus countered with a light smirk making a reappearance on his face. “You remember all those books on warding that I’ve been reading?” He queried, smirk widening as James nodded in response. “Well, it doesn’t just tell you how to create wards but also how to destroy or bypass them.” He continued, eyebrow wiggling slightly. “Now, whilst you’ve been getting your beauty sleep every night, I’ve been practicing with the wards around Grimmauld Place. And I’m here to tell you that not only have I taken down every single ward that was surrounding this place, wards that have been standing for generations no less, but I have also created new ones that are much stronger. As of this moment, only four people can access this house. You, me, Kreacher and Sirius. Over time I will be able to adapt it and add safe passage for others like Remus, Lily, Harry. Perhaps even Cissa and Draco. But no one else can enter anymore.” Regulus explained, looking away as his cheeks heated up from the intensity that grew in James’ eyes.

“Regulus Arcturus Black…” James muttered with a quiet laugh of both disbelief and awe. “Every single day you never fail to blow my mind. Every. Single. Day.” He stated, voice dropping an octave as he kept his intense gaze on the younger.

Regulus cleared his throat after a couple of seconds as he tried to stop himself from squirming under James’ gaze, gently shoving the male’s shoulder. “James- stop looking at me like that- I’m serious! I-I only told you that so you would know that getting us through the wards at Hogwarts could actually be a piece of cake. I doubt Dumbledore will have put up any wards more challenging than the dark wards produced by the Noble and Most Ancient House of Black.” Regulus rambled, glancing towards James and pressing his hand over his eyes. “I’m serious James- stop looking at me like that!” He demanded.

“Can’t help it, love. You’re just so smart, so beautiful, so lovely.” James complimented and Regulus swore he could feel the sincerity James’ words held- the sincerity held in those hazel eyes burn into his hand.

“James.” Regulus warned as he slowly pulled his hand away from the male’s eyes, his cheeks burning as he quickly looked away again.

“The world doesn’t realise how lucky it is to have Regulus Black on it.” James added with a soft smile, carefully snaking his arms around the younger’s waist and pulled him closer- into a warm hug. “You just blow my mind, Reg.” He admitted in a hushed whisper, a warm smile on his face as Regulus gently rested against him with a soft sigh. “You’re too sweet to me, Jamie.” Regulus uttered softly, allowing himself to melt into the warmth that was James Fleamont Potter.

A silence settled between them for a few minutes. Regulus remained rested against James’ chest with his eyes closed, a bright flicker of hope still burning in his chest.

“So, what’s the plan now?” James questioned softly into the silence; chin rested against the top of Regulus’ head.

“Break into Hogwarts.” Regulus replied quietly, eyes slowly opening as he looked towards the diary, allowing a new plan to calculate itself in his head. “But first, we need to pay a visit to an old Potions Professor.” He added, brows setting themselves in confidence as his gaze remained glued on the diary. “Horace Slughorn knows something about the horcruxes, and I am going to find out what, whether he wants me to or not.” He vowed.

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James had come to the realisation that he was never going to like the sound of Regulus’ plans. As if the plan to try and communicate with a horcrux wasn’t bad enough, Regulus’ plan to talk to Horace Slughorn as himself with no glamours was absolutely mental. And to make matters worse, Regulus was refusing to allow James to come with him, arguing that the two of them being seen by anyone ran too much of a risk. If they were seen then word could easily get back to Dumbledore, who could go after Lily and Harry to reign James back to his side.

They had hit a standstill when Regulus was refusing to let James go with him and James was refusing to let Regulus go without him.

Surprisingly, it was Kreacher who found a compromise between the two, making the suggestion after the two had bickered one too many times.

“Perhaps Master Regulus could disillusion Mr Potter, so the Professor does not notice him.”

Just like that, Kreacher had ended a week of bickering and arguments.

Kreacher had also been tasked by Regulus to keep an eye on Horace Slughorn. Even though the man no longer taught at Hogwarts, he still stuck to a weekly schedule and Regulus wanted to know what that was so he could perfectly time the ambush. So, he had asked Kreacher to trail the man and not be seen, which the house elf did perfectly.

By the first week of December, Regulus had a rough schedule of Slughorn’s movements, and he decided that the most opportune time for them to lie in wait for the old Potions Professor was on a Friday evening. The man usually got home at seven in the evening, so Regulus had planned for himself and James to be hidden in the house by half five at the latest, just in case the man went home early.

That’s how the two ended up having broken into Slughorn’s house thanks to Regulus’ ability to bypass wards and unlock doors. They sat at the long dining room table, in the darkness with a small ball of light circling around them. It was only bright enough for them to make each other out in the darkness.

“James…” Regulus started hesitantly, taking a soft breath. “You need to be fully aware of what could happen here.” He told the male, softly chewing on his bottom lip and rubbed his neck. “I meant it when I said that he’ll be telling me what he knows whether he wants to or not. I am fully prepared to force the answers out of him if I need to. And you need to be prepared to watch me do that without trying to intervene.” He stated, reaching out in the darkness to softly grasp James’ hand.

James was silent for a few seconds but did squeeze Regulus’ hand reassuringly. He seemed to be stuck in thought before he let out a long breath and nodded slowly. “I know, Reg. I do have some idea just how far you can go to get answers, you know… and I know that there’s nothing I could do to stop you. Honestly, I don’t even think that I would want to. If you’re correct and Slughorn really does know anything about the horcruxes, we need to know- you need to know.” James reasoned; eyes still glued on his lap.

Regulus could tell that James was uncomfortable with the thought of forcing answers out of someone-let alone an old Professor. Just knowing that it made James uncomfortable made something twist in Regulus’ chest, guilt perhaps? He could never pin down the reason as to why, but he always felt the need to reassure James, to let him know his full plan before he did something.

“Look, Jamie… I don’t know what you might be thinking that I’m planning to do if Slughorn doesn’t talk. So, I will tell you.” Regulus declared, carefully intertwining their fingers together and watched as James’ head lifted and his gaze rested on Regulus. “Not many people know but I am quite a talented legilimens. I practiced occlumency since a young age, something maman and father expected. So, naturally, I ventured into legilimency and grew quite proficient with it.” He explained, watching as realisation steadily grew in James’ eyes, even under the dim light that the lumos ball offered.

“So, you’re going to-”, “Yes. If Slughorn refuses to tell me what he knows about the horcruxes, I will perform legilimency on him and force open his mind. I will force him to show me what he knows.” Regulus confirmed with a resigned sigh. “And then I will wipe his mind, so he won’t remember that I was ever here, and no one will ever find out that we were here.”

James shuddered slightly at the thought but gave Regulus a retired nod, smiling lightly. “We need to know and if he isn’t willing to tell us himself, then sometimes answers need to be taken by force.” He justified, seemingly more to himself than Regulus.

“This is why I didn’t want you to be here.” Regulus admitted in a quiet voice, letting out a quiet sigh as he gently rubbed James’ hand with his thumb in small, soothing circles. “You’re so good, James. Even when you fought in the war, I doubt that you fought to kill.” He acknowledged, sincerity filling his eyes as he observed James with a serious gaze. “I’m not good, James. I have crossed lines that should never be crossed. And deliberately forcing my way into someone’s mind is morally wrong… but I don’t have morals anymore and I need you to understand that. What I’m willing to do is inherently wrong. And you do not have to be a part of it. You could leave right now and live the rest of your life not knowing what it’s like to cross over the lines of morality.”  

James stared back at Regulus, listening to him intently as he spoke but something seemed to harden inside James as Regulus spoke his last sentence. Regulus watched as that part of James hardened and a brush of determination washed itself across his features. From that split moment, Regulus already knew that James wouldn’t leave.

“We’re a team, Regulus. I told you that I was going to help you complete your mission and I will. No matter what it might cost. No matter how I may feel about it. This needs to be done, otherwise the wizarding world will just be sat like a sitting duck, waiting for Tom to rear his head and kick off round two.” James stated as his jaw clenched. “I will not allow Tom Riddle to take anything else from my son- from my family.” He added with a soft huff. “So, we’re going to find out how many horcruxes are out there and together, we will destroy each and every single one of them.”

A stunned silence settled between the two for a matter of seconds, James staring at Regulus with a mixture of determination and something else that Regulus couldn’t quite make out. Whereas Regulus was staring back in slight shock, searching James’ eyes closely as though the male was a puzzle that he couldn’t quite work out yet.

It took a couple of seconds before Regulus relented in his attempt to figure out what James was thinking- how he was feeling. He, instead, slowly nodded and smiled softly. “Together.” He whispered in confirmation just as he felt the wards of the house become alert with the fact that Slughorn had returned.

Gently passing Regulus his wand, James stood up and took himself over to the corner of the room. “Good luck, love.” He whispered as he passed, smiling reassuringly as Regulus cast a disillusionment charm on him.

Letting out a quiet breath to settle himself, Regulus cast away the dim lumos ball so that he was sat in complete darkness, allowing his occlumency shields to resurface after years of being down. The calmness that the shields brought was a happy break from the nerves that had grown in his stomach. Even though he knew what he had to do, it didn’t mean that the idea didn’t make him nervous. Meeting Slughorn with no glamour was a big risk.

He listened closely as the front door opened and shut, as heavy footsteps made their way through the house and closer to Regulus. He remained sat at the table, his curls flooding across his forehead and shadowing his eyes, his face completely blank. Light eventually filtered into the room as Slughorn entered, too caught up in the Daily Prophet in his hands to fully comprehend that he wasn’t alone.

“Hello, Professor.” Regulus drawled; tone emotionless as he watched Slughorn’s taller figure freeze as he tried to instinctively reach for his wand, though the action was sloppy and uncoordinated.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you. Your instincts are not quicker than mine.” Regulus warned as Slughorn lowered his paper, resting it down on the side as he hesitantly turned to face his intruder.

“Regulus? Regulus Black? Merlin’s beard, you’re supposed to be dead!” Slughorn declared incredulously as his eyes grew double in size from the shock of seeing one of his most promising potions students sat in front of him.

“Am I not?” Regulus questioned humourlessly, slowly raising from the chair and turned his body to properly face Slughorn. “Probably best to not tell Voldemort that, otherwise he might kill us both.”

“Don’t say that name!” Slughorn snapped, seemingly out of instinct as he steadied himself with a soft breath and watched Regulus wearily. “My boy, haven’t you heard that he has been defeated? The war is over- long over- for over a year now.”

A humourless chuckle fell from Regulus’ lips as he listened to his old professor. “No. He hasn’t, Professor.” He stated in response, noticing how his words seemed to make Slughorn flinch back. “But I think you already know that sir.” He added, keeping a soft grip on James’ wand in his hand.

“I-I’m sure I have no idea what you could be referring to Mr Black. But I suggest- no I demand- that you leave my house this instant! A-And I’ll forget that you were ever here.” Slughorn spluttered out, the demanding tone pairing up with his shaking hands.

Letting out a disappointed sigh, Regulus slowly shook his head in fake sympathy towards his old Potions Professor. “I’ll admit that I am slightly disappointed but not surprised. It’s clear that you have tried to reassure yourself- delude yourself- into thinking that Tom Riddle never succeeded with creating his horcruxes.” He revealed, eyes narrowing as he observed the colour slowly draining from Slughorn’s face.

“Allow me to be frank, Professor. Tom Riddle did make his horcruxes and I know that he asked you about them. You are going to tell me what you discussed and if you refuse, just know that I will force you to tell me.” He vowed, his voice dropping an octave to try and scare the man, which seemed to be working.

“Now, Regulus… you- you are jumping ahead there. I don’t know any-anything about those things. Now- I really must insist that you leave before I have no choice but to call the aurors and have you arrested for trespassing.” Slughorn managed to blunder out, hand subconsciously reaching for his wand.

With a light flick of James’ wand, Slughorn’s wand was flung across the room as Regulus’ gaze sharpened. “I don’t like repeating myself, Professor.” He informed the man as his jaw clenched slightly, taking a single step closer to the man.

“B-But I really don’t know anything-”, “Don’t lie!” Regulus cut the man off with a raised voice, a glare steadily forcing its way into Regulus’ eyes as Slughorn seemed to shrink under his gaze. “Tom Riddle has made more than one horcrux and will return. At seventeen, I was forced on this mission to try to destroy them and him. I have lost four years of my life, and I refuse to waste the next four because you’re too much of a coward to admit that you were the one who told Tom about the horcruxes!”

“It was supposed to be purely academic!” Slughorn retorted desperately, eyes wide in alarm. Regulus scoffed lightly in response, slowly shaking his head. “No, Professor. It was never purely academic. He played you like a fiddle and in a foolish attempt to protect your own pride, you never told anyone.” He stated, slowly raising the wand towards Slughorn. “You either tell me what he said, or I will force you. This is your final warning, Professor.”

Slughorn’s entire body trembled as he shook his head in vehement protest. “I can’t! I can’t!” He repeated, desperation in his voice as he raised his hands in a feeble attempt to stop Regulus.

“Show me!” Regulus demanded, wand pointed firmly towards Slughorn as his jaw clenched tighter.

“You don’t understand- I can’t!” Slughorn pleaded, eyes seemingly widening even further as he clocked onto what Regulus was planning to do.

“Have it your way then.” Regulus replied simply, taking a soft breath as he properly grounded himself for what was to come.

“Legilimens.”

The initial entry into Slughorn’s mind was met with a strong resistance. Regulus suspected that the man practiced occlumency as well, but he hadn’t practice enough to stop Regulus Black. A part of him felt slightly sympathetic as he smashed through the Professor’s occlumency shields and forced his way into the man’s mind. Though, the sympathy vanished quickly as he silently reminded himself that he had warned the man that he would force him. Instead of willingly letting Regulus see, he still refused. Though Regulus quickly realised why the man refused when he felt a rush a shame flood through him- Slughorn’s shame.

He dug his feet into the wooden floor as he continued to ground himself, forcing himself further into the man’s mind until he came across his desired memory.

He found himself stood to one side of Slughorn, in what seemed to be the man’s private quarters at Hogwarts. It wasn’t odd for the man to invite a few students with a particular proclivity and skill with potions for private get-togethers. Regulus had been invited to a few himself.

To one side of Slughorn’s desk stood a young Tom Riddle, who leaned over the desk and carefully flicked an hourglass that was sat near the centre of the desk. A soft chiming sound ran through the room, drawing Slughorn’s attention towards Tom, who was looking at the Professor with an eager topic to discuss on his lips.

“I was in the library the other night,” He started, taking slow, confident, calculated steps towards the Potions Professor. “In the restricted section.” He continued, rounding the corner of the desk to properly approach the older man. “And I read something rather odd about a bit of rare magic.” Tom stopped opposite Slughorn with something calculated hidden behind his eyes.

“It’s called, as I understand it, a horcrux.” He stated simply, blinking slowly.

Slughorn’s body seemed to freeze for a moment before he blinked a couple of times, trying to hide the shock that was appearing on his features. “I beg your pardon?” He questioned, as if silently hoping he had misheard the boy.

“A horcrux.” Tom repeated, a look of innocence spread across his features as he shrugged nonchalantly, “I came across the term whilst reading. And I didn’t fully understand it.” He admitted.

“I’m not sure what you’re reading Tom, but this is very dark stuff, very dark indeed.” Slughorn responded, seemingly gripping the goblet filled with his drink of choice closer to his chest.

“Which is… why I came to you.” Tom replied, nodding his head slightly in Slughorn’s direction which seemed to make the Professor even more uncomfortable.

It took a couple of seconds, a look of slight horror still etched in Slughorn’s features as he started talking. “A horcrux is an object in which a person has concealed a part of their soul.” He started, voice hesitant.

“But I don’t understand how that works, sir.” Tom pressed on, taking a couple of steps closer to the man.

“One splits one’s soul and hides part of it in an object… by doing so you are protected should you be attacked and your body destroyed.” The professor continued, swallowing harshly as he made some vague movements with his empty hand as he attempted to explain.

“Protected?” Tom asked and his head tilted to the side.

“The part of your soul that is hidden lives on.” Slughorn answered carefully, still gipping his goblet close to his chest. “In other words, you cannot die.” He added, staring at Tom with the same concern.

Tom stared back at the Potions Professor for a couple of seconds before slowly turning towards the fireplace on his right, taking a step closer to it and staring into the bright flames as the wood crackled beneath the heat. “And how does one split his soul, sir?” Tom questioned, curiosity lacing his tone even though Regulus was certain that he already knew the answer.

“I think you already know the answer to that, Tom.” Slughorn admitted, a horrified expression seeping steadily onto his face as he observed the student closely.

“Murder.” Tom uttered, still staring into the flames.

“Yes.” The man confirmed, swallowing harshly once more. “Killing rips the soul apart, it is a violation against nature.”

Tom’s gaze remained on the fire as his right hand reached for his left, carefully fiddling with the ring that rested neatly on his middle finger. “Can you only split the soul once? For instance… seven.”

Regulus felt his heart drop and his eyes widened slightly as Slughorn let out a slightly horrified gasp, “seven! Merlin’s beard, Tom! Isn’t it bad enough to consider killing one person… to rip the soul into seven pieces.” He remarked incredulously before a look of panic and fear ran across his face, eyes widening. “This is all hypothetical isn’t it, Tom? All academic.” He questioned, a tone of pleading slipping into his voice.

Tom slowly turned from the fireplace and looked towards Slughorn, a slight smugness in his eyes as he gradually smiled in fake reassurance, “of course, sir.” He spoke, a slight smirk threatening to take over the fake reassurance. “It’ll be our little secret.” He whispered.

Regulus felt a wave a nausea rip through him from both Slughorn and him as he pulled himself out of the man’s mind with a sharp gasp, stumbling back slightly into the chair he had originally been sat on.

Taking a couple of deep breaths, Regulus felt James’ hands on his arms as he tried to soothe Regulus. He swallowed slowly, gently resting his hand on James’ distorted shoulder as he glanced over his shoulder to look at Slughorn, who’s whole body was trembling and curled up against the floor as tears rolled down his cheeks. He kept mumbling nonsense to himself as he seemingly tried self-soothing and rocking himself.

Taking a quick look around the room, Regulus noticed some draughts in a cabinet and quickly forced his way across, searching through the vials and picking two out, quickly taking one himself.

“What did you just take?” James questioned hesitantly, still close to Regulus even if he was still disillusioned.

“Calming draught.” Regulus replied after a couple of seconds, feeling his heart rate slow and his breathing slowly return to normal. He then took a couple of steps closer to Slughorn, uncorking the other vial and forcing the man to drink it.

A matter of seconds later, Slughorn was asleep on the floor and Regulus removed the disillusionment charm on James, smiling lightly as the male came into view once more. He held up the second vial towards James, “sleeping draught. I’ll be able to obliviate him and give him a false memory easier if he’s asleep.” He explained, slowly sitting back as he rubbed his face with his hands.

“What happened, Reg?” James questioned, concern obvious in both his eyes and voice as he knelt beside Regulus, carefully rubbing soft circles into Regulus’ back.

“He asked Slughorn about the horcruxes, asked if it was possible to split a soul into seven pieces.” Regulus admitted, pressing himself into James’ shoulder with a defeated sigh. “That means if he succeeded and split his soul into seven pieces…” He started, closing his eyes tightly as he felt a flicker of distress run through his chest.

“Then there’s six horcruxes in total.” James finished with a soft sigh, allowing his fingers to brush through Regulus’ hair.

“How are we supposed to do this…?” Regulus uttered as he slowly opened his eyes, looking towards Slughorn with a light glare. “Why couldn’t he have told someone- anyone…?”

“I reckon it’s because he’s ashamed.” James mumbled softly in response and carefully moved his hand to cup Regulus’ jaw, using his thumb to gently push his chin up and get Regulus to look at him. “But listen… we already have two of them and we have an idea on where the third one is. We’re nearly half-way there. We can do this.” He spoke, wanting to reassure Regulus the best he could.

Letting out another soft breath, Regulus slowly nodded as he allowed himself a couple of seconds to just stare into those hazel eyes. “You’re right… half-way there. What’s another three horcruxes, right?” He asked with an empty chuckle.

“Easy for us.” James countered with a soft smile. “And I think our job to go and get the third horcrux has just gotten a whole lot easier” He added, motioning towards the Daily Prophet that had been left on a counter. Regulus followed James’ hand and raised an eyebrow in both questioning and confusion. “Apparently Dumbledore is away on Wizengamot business for the next month or so. Looks like we’re finally being rewarded for our efforts.” He joked with a wink.

Regulus’ shoulders slumped in relief and a light smile flashed across his lips as he nodded in agreement. “Best get to Hogwarts soon then… perhaps after a long sleep?” He suggested, his head starting to pound from forcing his way into Horace’s head.

“Definitely. Let’s finish up here and get Slughorn to bed.” James replied, standing up and offering his hands to Regulus, who happily accepted the help to get up from the floor.

There were only four horcruxes yet- three that still needed to be discovered if Regulus was correct about the come and go room. And with Dumbledore temporarily away from Hogwarts, the wards may be slightly weaker than usual.

How bad could it possibly be?

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Peering around the seventh-floor corridor, Regulus let out a shaky breath. “You know this would be much easier with an invisibility cloak.” He hissed quietly towards James. He had disillusioned the two of them when they had bypassed the wards of Hogwarts.

James had insisted that they took one of the secret passageways so it would be less likely for them to be discovered. So, they settled on the one-eyed witch’s passageway. It was easy enough to sneak into Honeydukes cellar and make their way through the passage. Once they had reached the wards of Hogwarts, Regulus had experimentally pressed on them to see just what he was dealing with, very much relieved once he realised that they weren’t as strong as when Dumbledore was around. So, he managed to get them through the wards in half the time he was expecting. It still took him around thirty minutes, but his magic had memorised the blueprint of the wards so if he ever had to come back, it would take less time. And if Dumbledore was back, he would be able to add the old oaf’s wards into his blueprint.

The most difficult part of their plan was getting through the castle unseen by anyone. Even disillusioned, if they were caught by a staff member, they would be screwed.

“Well, I am sorry, but we don’t have an invisibility cloak.” James retorted in a soft whisper as he playfully glared at Regulus. “It’s not my fault that I don’t have mine.” He reminded the younger, grinning as Regulus only grumbled in response. “Fucking Dumbledore…” He muttered, moving down the corridor and stared at the blank wall.

“It is through there?” James questioned softly from beside Regulus, the two not stood in the middle of the hallway instead of crouched by the wall.

“Should be.” Regulus replied, eyeing the wall carefully. “The perfect place to hide things…” He mumbled before turning to James. “You keep watch, I’ll try and get this room to work.” He ordered.

Playfully saluting Regulus, James nodded and silently moved back down the corridor to keep an eye out for any unwanted visitors. “If only we had the map.” He grumbled quietly.

“Some of us do know how to sneak around the castle without cheating.” Regulus retorted as he heard James’ grumbling, focusing on the blank wall and narrowed his eyes. “Perfect place to hide things…” He whispered to himself and closed his eyes, carefully beginning to pace back and forth in front of the wall. “Perfect place to hide things… perfect place to hide things… perfect place to hide things.” He whispered in quiet repetitions to himself, hoping the castle would provide.

‘Please… I need to find that horcrux.’ He thought desperately.

“Reg, look!” James whispered loudly from his spot down the corridor to try and get Regulus’ attention.

“What?” Regulus replied quietly, a hint of annoyance in his tone until he saw the large iron door that sat in the place of the, once, blank wall. His eyes widened slightly as he took a hesitant step forward, twisting the doorknob and carefully pushed the heavy door open, cringing sightly as he felt the door scratch against the surface of the floor.

Staring into the room, Regulus silently beckoned James over with his hand, completely forgetting that James probably couldn’t see him properly. Luckily, James usually just knew and appeared at Regulus’ side, letting out a light whistle as he looked at the room. “If I wanted to hide something, this would definitely be the perfect spot.” He admitted, gently pushing Regulus into the room and quickly shut the door behind them.

“Accio horcrux!” Regulus demanded with James’ wand firmly in his hand, removing the disillusionment charm around the two of them. James let out a snort of amusement as Regulus glared across at him. “It was worth a shot!” He snapped defensively, looking back at the room with a soft huff. “Might have saved us a couple of hours…” He muttered.

“Accio horcrux would never have worked, love.” James replied fondly and glanced around the room with a quiet hum. “Let’s just start by having a look around, hm? Perhaps the horcrux will be in one of the first places we look.” He suggested, trying to sound positive about the idea but knowing that he would likely be wrong.

“I doubt Tom Riddle would put it somewhere obvious but he also extremely arrogant so it wouldn’t fully surprise me.” Regulus replied with a light shrug. “Let’s split up… it might work out better.” He proposed, glancing back towards James, who nodded slowly in agreement. “Just yell if you find it.” He replied with an amused smile, winking at Regulus before making his way into the room.

The room itself could only be described as a hoarder’s utopia. There were stacks upon stacks of furniture, clothes, book and all sorts of other tat that had been left in there over the years. Regulus did have the thought that when something was conjured but then vanished again, perhaps it ended up in this room. It really was a mix match of anything and everything- the perfect place to hide something. But he knew the horcrux was in there, Regulus could just feel it. The room appeared when Regulus had, quite embarrassingly, silently begged to find the horcrux and he had decided, just this once, to not see that as a coincidence but as a sign. The horcrux was in here. They just needed to find it.

Letting out a soft sigh, fully expecting their search to take a couple of hours at the very least, Regulus made his way further into the room, going in the opposite direction that James went.

It was going to be a long night.

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It took precisely two hours and eighteen minutes before either of them had any kind of real inclination on where the horcrux could be.

The room was far larger than either of them thought and it felt as thought they had barely made any progress at all. That was when Regulus felt it, the tug of a familiar dark magic.

After the first hour and thirty minutes, James had found Regulus, and they decided it would be better to search together. If they were in there too long, they would have to stay in there for the entire day until night fell again. So, it made more sense for them to stick together so they could hide if anyone did happen to enter the room whilst they were in there.

James had noticed the second Regulus felt the tug, eyeing him with a serious gaze as he raised an eyebrow. “Something wrong?” He questioned softly. Regulus nodded slowly in response, taking a breath before he began following the tug and grabbed James’ hand to drag him along.

“Can’t you feel it?” He asked as his pace sped up, completely trusting his gut to lead him in the direction of the dark magic. It was growing stronger and a part of Regulus wanted to follow it as quickly as possible, not wanting to risk it disappearing completely.

“No.” James replied, his eyebrows furrowed as he quickly followed after Regulus, squeezing the younger’s hand gently.

It only took them a minute before Regulus’ stopped moving completely, looking around the room with a calculated look until his silvery-green eyes landed on a box. A box emanating with dark magic- the magic of a horcrux.

“There.” He stated, a feeling similar to excitement rushing through his body as he let go of James’ hand and made a beeline for the box. Once it was within touching distance, he ran a couple of spells to make sure that the box hadn’t been tampered with in any way before he carefully lifted the lid.

Inside the box was a beautiful diadem, nestled between a royal blue silk. A Ravenclaw blue.

“It couldn’t be…” Regulus whispered as he carefully picked up the diadem, his eyes widening in recognition as his thumb ran over the blue sapphire in the middle.

"Wit beyond measure is man's greatest treasure.” James recited the etchings on the diadem with a breathy laugh of disbelief. “Rowena Ravenclaw’s Lost Diadem.” He whispered as Regulus looked across at him with a slow nod in agreement.

“It’s beautiful.” James muttered as he looked back towards the diadem.

“It’s a tragedy…” Regulus mumbled, a sadness growing in his eyes as his thumb continued to slowly run across the smooth surface of the sapphire.

“How do you mean?” James questioned, his eyebrows crashing together in confusion as he noticed the sadness in Regulus’ eyes.

“It’s a historical artifact… a magnificent, historical artifact that must be destroyed all because one person decided to defile it with dark magic.” Regulus explained with a soft voice, letting out a soft sigh and shook his head slightly. “It’s tragic and no one will ever know what happened to it… forever lost.”

“We’ll know.” James replied, a reassuring smile on his face. “And, one day, others will know too. You’ll be able to tell Harry, be able to tell Draco. And over time, many people will know that we found the diadem- that you found it. That it had to be destroyed to stop one bad man.” He explained, gently hugging Regulus from the side.

Regulus let out a quiet sigh and nodded lightly, resting his head against James’ shoulder as his eyes remained on the diadem. “I’d like that… We’ll be able to tell Lily, Remus, perhaps even Sirius if he’ll talk to me.” He whispered softly and carefully put the diadem back into its box. “Maybe I’ll even be able to tell Evan and Barty… even Pandora and Dorcas. It’d be good to talk to everyone again after we finish this.” He admitted quietly, ignoring the burning tears in his eyes as he closed the box and carefully lowered the box into his bag, securing it with a cushioning charm before he looked back towards James. “Let’s go?” He suggested.

James, who had been looking at Regulus with an obscure emotion, slowly nodded and carefully wrapped an arm around Regulus. “Yeah… lets go. The further away from Hogwarts we get, the better.” He joked with a soft smile, keeping Regulus close as they made their way out of the room of hidden things.

Once they were back in the open once again, Regulus cast a disillusionment charm on the two of them and kept a soft grip on James’ hand as they silently manoeuvred their way out of the castle and back towards the one-eyed witch’s passageway.

They had almost made it to the passageway when the hairs on the back of Regulus’ neck raised in alarm.

“Stop right there!” A voice demanded from further down the hall, a voice that Regulus knew all too well and with the way James squeezed his hand, he assumed the voice was all too familiar to him as well.

“Reveal yourselves!” The voice demanded once more.

Regulus let out a quiet “shit” along with a defeated sigh as he slowly stepped out into the middle of the hall and turned around to meet the gaze of Severus Snape, who had his wand held directly at the two even when disillusioned.

Reassuringly squeezing James’ hand, Regulus carefully removed the charm from the two of them and stared back at Snape, his occlumency shields fully raised. “Hello, Severus.” He replied cooly, keeping a grip on James’ wand.

“Black?” Severus retorted, confusion flashing across his face that only seemed to grow when his onyx eyes landed on James. “Potter?”

In his peripheral vision, Regulus noticed James cringe slightly in response to Severus and continue to stare back at the man for a couple of moments before turning towards Regulus with a pleading gaze. “Can you give me a moment alone with Severus, please?” He requested softly, which seemed to catch Snape of guard if his growing confusion was anything to go off.

Regulus glanced between the two for a moment, eyes narrowing slightly in a mixture of confusion and questioning before letting out a defeated sigh and nodded. “Fine. But be quick, we have to get out of here.” He told James, holding out the wand towards him.

James was quick to shake his head with a reassuring smile. “Don’t need it, love. Just cast a muffliato please. I don’t think he’s going to be very quiet whilst I explain everything.” He replied, turning back towards Severus and took a couple of careful steps forwards. “Look, you don’t owe me anything but there is an explanation for all of this.”

Severus eyed James with suspicion as Regulus wrapped the two in a muffliato charm, an uneasy feeling running through his chest the moment he couldn’t hear the two anymore.

Even though he couldn’t hear them, he did his best to watch the two as they seemed to bicker- more likely argue- for a few seconds before James blurted something out which made Severus tense up. For a moment, Regulus wondered if he was going to have to break up a big fight between the two but as the seconds shifted into minutes, Severus’ posture seemed to soften into something that looked a little bit too much like understanding.

Severus glanced towards Regulus a couple of times but for the majority of their conversation, his onyx eyes remained glued on James who was apparently explaining the entire situation to Snape. A part of Regulus did hope that he wasn’t telling the man everything, but he trusted James’ judgement.

By the time the two made their way back towards Regulus and he finally broke the muffliato charm, Regulus as becoming rather antsy. Luckily, James noticed rather quickly and within a second was back at Regulus’ side, re-intertwining their fingers and he smiled reassuringly.

“And here I was thinking I was the only double agent left.” Severus drawled as he observed Regulus for a couple of seconds. The man still looked annoyed. Scratch that- he looked absolutely seething but, for once, the expression wasn’t aimed at either him or James. Someone else had clearly annoyed Snape and Regulus silently wished whoever that person was a quick death. After working with Severus whilst he was a Death Eater, Regulus knew that if there was one person that you should never get on the wrong side of, it was Severus Snape.

“I may not know exactly what the two of you are up to.” Severus spoke, sending a pointed look towards James before finally putting his wand away. “But you should both be very careful. I suspect that our dear headmaster is not as oblivious and dithery as he would like us all to think.” He warned, looking between the two for a couple more seconds. “Don’t let me catch either of you strutting around this castle again, otherwise I will make you pay for it.” He vowed, silent threat laced in his voice as he lightly nodded towards the two before turning on his heel and walking away from the two, black robes billowing behind him.

Before Regulus’ brain could catch up with the warning Severus had given them, James was gently tugging Regulus towards the passageway.

“Hold on- just a second-” Regulus started as he shook his head to try and clear away all the questions that were invading his thought process. James still continued to try and get them to the passageway as quickly as he could.

“James!” Regulus spoke urgently, voice raised slightly to try and get James’ attention, which seemed to work when he almost instantly stopped his movements. “What was that? What did you tell him?” He continued, carefully squeezing James’ hand with concern.

Letting out a light sigh, James turned towards Regulus with a light smile on his lips. “I only told him what he needed to know… that Voldemort has a way to come back, and we are trying to stop him. And I also took the opportunity to apologise to him because I was a complete arse to him when we were in school. Sure, he gave as good as he got sometimes but I was an arse. So, I wanted to properly apologise to him whilst I had the chance.” James explained, the same obscure emotion swimming in his eyes- the one that Regulus could not quite decipher.

“Are you okay?” Regulus questioned softly as he slowly started to walk towards the passageway with James, the male only replying once they were making their way back to Honeydukes cellar. “I think so… I’ll never expect him to forgive me, but I hope that me apologising will give him some sort of closure.” He mumbled, taking a soft breath and shook his head. “Anyway, we had better get back to Grimmauld and burn that defiled artifact.” He stated, clearly trying to move away from the topic of Severus Snape and, for once, Regulus wouldn’t press the issue any further.

“That’s still a tragedy…” He admitted with a sigh.

“I know, but at least we’re halfway through the hunt.” James declared, always one to point out the bright side.

And he wasn’t wrong, was he? If Tom Riddle really had six horcruxes hidden in the world, together they had found three of them. They were halfway there.

Just another three to find before Tom Riddle wouldn’t be as immortal as he believed.

Chapter Text

Four months passed before another viable lead formed in the ever-evolving web that was Tom Riddle’s attempt at immortality.

The most James and Regulus had gotten was that since Tom had found and defiled two historical artifacts that were directly linked to two of the four founders of Hogwarts, it was possible that he had found artifacts for the remaining two founders as well. The only problem with that was the lack of research on the Founders and their possessions. For two months the duo had searched for any viable horcruxes but had only been able to find two possible objects: the Sword of Gryffindor and Helga Hufflepuff’s Cup.

They were viable options and since Tom had already picked two founder’s items that had been recorded about, there was hope with the sword and the cup. The Cup in particular. Regulus had been quick to point out that since the sword had been Goblin-made, it may not be as simple to change into a horcrux especially since Wixen for generations had been arrogant about their own powers, not bothering to try and understand the power that Goblins had.

So, the cup was more likely.

But that did not help trying to locate the cup. Ironically, the last known owner of the cup was the same as the last known owner of the locket. One Hepzibah Smith, who had been mistakenly poisoned by her house-elf. That was the story anyway, Regulus was open with James about his scepticism. If it was possible that Tom Riddle could make his own Uncle believe that he had murdered the Riddles, he was positive that it would be no problem for Tom to have a poor, unsuspecting house-elf believe that she had mistakenly poisoned her mistress. The poor house-elf had been convicted of manslaughter by the Ministry and had died not long after, fully believing that her weakened mind had not been able to discriminate the poison from sugar when preparing her mistress' evening cocoa.

So, the last known owner had ended with a dead end, but it was almost a given that because Tom had the locket, he had the cup, and it was a horcrux hiding somewhere.

The real breakthrough for James and Regulus came in the form of Majorie and her cream cake. The two had kept up with their regular visits to the elderly muggle, discussing an array of different topics over a good cup tea and a far-too-large helping of the woman’s signature cream cake, which she had continued trying to improve upon.

Even though Majorie did not know about the magical world, though Regulus was starting to question that, she was kept up to date on their mission. James had framed it in a way that indicated the horcruxes as items that were meaningful to the ‘young Riddle boy’ in the hopes that they could draw him out of wherever he was hiding. She had somehow managed to convince them to tell her almost everything, including that they were searching for six items, only had three and the search was not going well.

She carefully poured the two another cup of tea as James was updating her on where they were at. “So, we have a vague idea on what one of the items may be but have no clue how we’re going to find it.” He admitted with a soft sigh, quickly thanking the woman as she pushed his cup of tea towards him.

Pursing her lips in thought for a couple of seconds, Majorie took her seat once more and smiled sympathetically towards the two. “Is there really no one else who can help you with this? I still think that this is too large a job for two young men like yourselves.” She queried, the same concern filling her eyes that had been present whenever they discussed the ‘young Riddle boy’.

Regulus smiled towards Majorie with what he hoped was reassurance as he slowly shook his head. “There isn’t. If anyone discovered that we were searching for these items, there’s a real possibility that Tom himself would find out and our plan would fail.” He explained softly, taking a sip of his tea and leaned back in his chair. “And the people that would be classed as above us in the order of things… let’s just say that they’re unlikely to help of the goodness of their hearts. They would want something for it or use the knowledge to benefit themselves.”

A sarcastic chuckle drawled from Majorie’s lips as she slowly nodded in understanding. “That… That I understand very well. You see behaviour like that everywhere in the world today. Many people with power only try to better their own stead in the world and, often, ignore the struggles of others.” She replied solemnly and let out a soft sigh. “Well, I may not be able to help you very much other than offering a place to rant and a good cuppa, but you mentioned that one of the items was hidden in a place that meant something to him?” She suggested with her index finger gently tapping her chin in thought.

James nodded slowly and furrowed his eyebrows at the woman’s question. “Yes. We found one item hidden in his old school, one with someone he trusted and the third in a place we think might be related to his youth.” He replied, observing Majorie as she slowly nodded along with James’ words.

“Well, I’m not sure about the two of you but I certainly see a pattern there. I would daresay that one of those items would be hidden in the Riddle house if he hadn’t despised the family so much. Perhaps another family residence? The shack that Merope and her father and brother lived in is only a couple of villages over, completely abandoned as far as I know.” Majorie informed the two with a soft smile on her face.

Regulus stared at Majorie for a couple of seconds before his brain started whirring to life, sitting up straight in his chair as realisation grew in his eyes. “Of course…” He muttered, eyes dancing from Majorie to James as he let out an unamused laugh at his own stupidity.

“Reg?” James urged softly, a patient smile on his face as he reached across the table to gently grasp the younger’s hand.

“How many times have I told you that Tom was related to the Gaunts? And how many times have I just brushed over that fact instead of realising its importance? Majorie is correct, he would never hide one of the items at the Riddle house because he despised that part of his heritage, but he didn’t despise the Gaunt part of his heritage. I suspect knowing that he was a member of the Gaunt House helped fuel some of his later beliefs and help to exaggerate his own self-importance.” Regulus explained, running his hands through his hair as he slowly shook his head and let out a scoff in disbelief. “Thus far, if our theory about the cave is correct, he has left the items either at places that are significant to him or with people who he’s deemed to be worthy of hiding them. Of course, he would leave something at the Gaunt House.”

James’ own eyes widened slightly as he listened to Regulus and glanced towards Majorie, who was sat back in her chair with a soft smile and soft gaze watching Regulus is a mixture of curiosity and fondness.

“If you do think that I’m correct, then the other two items should follow the same pattern, you just need to crack the where or who.” Majorie added with a soft hum, gently resting her hand on Regulus’ shoulder. “This is what I am here for, Regulus. This is what both me and James are here for. Sometimes, the obvious can be clouded by the knowledge you already have. It is easy enough to brush over the Riddle Boy’s connection to his mother’s family. But what is most important is that you’ve made the connection now and you can investigate further. That sounds like progress to me so, it would seem you’re not in the stalemate you believed that you were.” The woman mused with a warm smile.

“Thank you, Majorie.” Regulus spoke sincerely after a couple of seconds, looking towards the woman with a light smile on his face. “You always seem to know precisely what to do when we’re struggling with something.” He admitted, glancing back towards James with a look that said, ‘we need to leave, we need to get to that house’.

“My son says a similar thing. You could call it a mother’s intuition.” She replied with a quiet chuckle, noticing the look between James and Regulus with a knowing smile. “The house is just east of Little Hangleton. It usually takes me about twenty minutes to get to it when I’m passing by but you’re both much younger than me, so I’m sure you’ll get there sooner.” She explained, carefully nudging the cups of tea towards the two with a stern look. “Finish your tea first though, sweethearts. I’ll expect to hear about your bountiful trip the next time you visit.”

Regulus and James looked between one another for a couple of moments before nodding towards Majorie and finishing off their cups of tea just like the woman silently demanded. “We’ll be back as soon as we can to let you know all about it.” James vowed with a warm smile.

“Very good. Well then, let me see you both out.” Majorie spoke as she carefully rose from her chair and wiped her hands on her apron. “Just a word of caution, though.” She started, waiting until James and Regulus faced her before continuing, “there’s something about that house- more like a shack really. Call it my intuition but I always had the feeling that trespassing inside would never be a good idea. Just a bad feeling is all. So, please be careful.” She warned as she started walking towards the front door with both Regulus and James in tow.

“Thank you for the warning, Majorie. We’ll make sure that we’re careful.” Regulus promised the woman, glancing back towards James with a knowing look.

If someone had placed enchantments around the shack to keep people away, there was something hidden there. They only hoped that it was their fourth horcrux.

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

Setting off in the direction that Majorie had sent them, it only took James and Regulus ten minutes from leaving Majorie’s house to arrive at the shack in question. Regulus gently took James’ wand and formed a ward around them and the shack to prevent any passing muggles from noticing them.

“I can understand where Majorie was coming from, whatever enchantments he put around this place certainly isn’t particularly inviting.” James admitted as he eyed the shack wearily. Nodding slowly in agreement, Regulus let out a soft breath and took a couple of steps closer to the building that clearly hadn’t been well maintained, even when Marvolo, Marvolo’s wife, Morfin and Merope had lived there.

The shack itself was small, though Regulus suspected that there was more space inside than there seemed to be. There had to have been enough space for four people to live there. The shabby shack had been well hidden with time, a tangle of large tree trunks obscuring its view and blocking out all signs of light. The trunks even obscured the view of the rest of the valley, making any view from the inside miserable and filled with tree trunks as far as the eye could see. It was a strange place to have just so many trees growing nearby.

Regulus’ nose scrunched up slightly in disgust as he noticed the moss that clung to the shack’s walls, broken tiles laying along the ground where they had fallen from the roof, exposing the rafters of the roof in their wake. Nettles grew around the outskirts of the building, some even reaching the tips of the windows that, themselves, were thick with dirt and grime.  

“I’d hate to know how it looks on the inside.” Regulus shuddered slightly and held the wand up towards the shabby shell of a building, pressing the tip of the wand against the wall of wards and enchantments that had been put into place to ward off any visitors. “Just like at Hogwarts, I’ll make sure we can bypass the wall of protection instead of destroying it completely. If, by chance, Tom was to check on this place, we wouldn’t want to tip him off that someone had been snooping around.” He explained as he sat to work opening a small hole in the defences for both him and James.

It took a total of ten minutes for Regulus to forge a path through the protections around the shack and another five minutes of Regulus checking and double checking his work before stepping past the wall of protection, letting out a quiet breath of relief when nothing happened.

Turning towards James, he held his hand out and waited patiently for him to step through. “Make sure you step through in the same spot I did.” Regulus reminded with a soft tone in his voice. James only smiled fondly in response and nodded, following the same path Regulus had taken past the wall and grabbed his hand, gently intertwining their fingers. “At least neither of us will be cursed today.” He joked softly once he was sure that he was safely past the protections.

“I wouldn’t be too sure, by the looks of this ‘house’ we might catch a plague and die a horrible death. I’d say that would class as a curse.” Regulus replied, glancing towards the house in unfiltered disgust once again.

“You can be a proper pompous git sometimes, you know that?” James replied, amusement filling his tone as he began approaching the front door and tugged Regulus along with him. “Jamie, this is the ancestral home of the Noble and Most Ancient House of Gaunt, descendants of Salazar Slytherin himself. I mean- there were rumours that the family gold had been squandered by previous generations but the fact that they chose to live in this hovel is enough to confirm that they were broke. I can only wonder just how many of their descendants lived in this very shack.” Regulus complained with a soft huff, approaching the front door and scrunching his nose up at the sight of a snake corpse which had been pinned to the door. “Charming.” He muttered sarcastically.

“So, it’s a bit… run down.” James stated, staring at the shack and gestured towards it with his free hand, clearly trying to find something positive about the building. “It’s a hovel.” Regulus concluded for the male and carefully pushed the door open with his foot. “Let’s just find whatever is hidden in here and leave before we catch something.” He mumbled, stepping into the shack and dragging James along with him.

The ‘house’ itself contained three tiny rooms with two doors leading off to the main room, which seemed to serve as a kitchen and living room combined.

“And here I was hoping that it would be larger on the inside.” Regulus muttered with a soft huff. “How did four people live here all at one time…?” He questioned rhetorically, eyeing the inches of dust and filth on every surface within the building. Calling it dilapidated would be an understatement.

Taking a couple of hesitant steps into the main room, Regulus’ lips curled into an affronted frown. The place was absolutely littered in filth with rusty pots and mouldy food littered across the counters and floors. The overall smell of the place was horrendous and nauseating. For the first couple of seconds stepping into the room, Regulus raised his sleeve to cover his nose and mouth but reluctantly lowered it after a couple of seconds, knowing the sooner he allowed his senses to get used to the smell, the sooner it would stop bothering his stomach.

“It feels terribly unremarkable in here…” James spoke up as he looked around the room in obvious discomfort, keeping a firm grip on Regulus’ hand. “Are you sure there’s a horcrux here?” He added, taking a quick glance around the room before looking back towards the entrance.

“There must be something here. Why else would there be enchantments protecting the place?” Regulus countered and looked back towards James with his nose scrunched up. “But it’s definitely not in here. Let’s try the other room.” He added, quickly striding out of the room and reached the next door along. Pressing his foot against the door, Regulus took a sharp intake of breath as he felt the aura of dark magic seeping out of the room the wider the door opened.

“What is it?” James questioned, looking between the door and Regulus with confusion. “Can’t you feel that?” Regulus asked back, disconnecting their hands to gently rest his palm against James’ forehead as the male slowly shook his head. “You couldn’t feel the dark magic from the diadem either…” Regulus trailed off with worry and concern flashing in his eyes. “I’m going to check you over when we get back to Grimmauld Place. I’ve been around far more dark magic than you and I can still feel it. We need to make sure you’re not ill or cursed.” He explained, observing James closely for a few seconds before taking a step into the room.

“I’m fine, Reg. I swear.” James replied quickly, gaining a soft glare from Regulus in response and he let out a soft, defeated sigh. “You just don’t need to worry is all, Reg.” He clarified and followed Regulus into the room, watching as the younger searched through the room and pausing at some rotting floorboards.

A second later, Regulus had knelt onto the floor and started to pull some of the rotting floorboards away from floor. After pulling away the second floorboard, Regulus noticed a flash of a golden box nestled below the planks of wood. He quickly beckoned James over and reached down, carefully manoeuvring the box out of the hole and rested on the floorboards.

“He’s certainly got a knack for hiding things.” James admitted as he knelt beside Regulus with a light smile. “If it wasn’t for the magic radiating from it, he’d be a lot more competent at hiding things.” Regulus replied, chewing on his bottom lip as he reluctantly opened the golden box and let out a quiet gasp as he saw the ring that was neatly lodged inside, Slughorn’s memory rushing through his head.

“Murder.” Tom uttered, still staring into the flames of the crackling fireplace.

“Yes.” The Slughorn confirmed, swallowing harshly once more. “Killing rips the soul apart, it is a violation against nature.”

Tom’s gaze remained on the fire as his right hand reached for his left, carefully fiddling with the ring that rested neatly on his middle finger. “Can you only split the soul once? For instance… seven.”

“He was wearing this ring when Slughorn was telling him about the horcruxes…” Regulus whispered as he stared at the same ring that was once neatly placed on Tom Riddle’s middle finger. He allowed his fingers to drift closer to the ring but swiftly stopped as small alarms started going off in his own head as he eyed the ring more closely.

James, who seemed to have the same urge as Regulus, began to reach for the ring, intent on pulling it out of its box and pushing it onto his own finger for safe keeping.

“No!” Regulus snapped once he finally caught sight of James’ fingers brush against the golden band of the ring. “Don’t touch it!” He demanded, panic lacing his voice as his own hand moved to grab James’ and pull it away from the ring. “It’s cursed for Salazars sake, James!” He scolded.

A moment later, Regulus had snapped the golden box shut once again and shifted his full attention to the fingers that had brushed against the ring, searching them closely for any signs of the curse. “Are you okay? Do you feel off at all? You can’t feel any pain running through your hand, right? Scratch that- you don’t feel any pain anywhere, do you?” Regulus rambled as he seemed to search James for any sign of discomfort, the panic only growing in his tone.

“Regulus-” James started.

“You would tell me if you were in any discomfort, wouldn’t you? What am I saying- of course you would! Only that it’s important that you let me know if there’s anything wrong because I don’t know how quickly the curse might spread and I’ll need to try and stem it as quickly as possible.” Regulus continued to ramble, blatantly ignoring James’ attempts to gain his attention.

“Regulus-” James tried again, watching Regulus as he continued vigilantly for any small changes.

“Are you a little pale? You look a little pale. James- you’re not supposed to be pale. We need to get you back to Grimmauld Place now, so I can get my potions. I knew I should have packed some with me and now see what’s happened- you’ve been cursed, and I don’t even know how bad it is-” Regulus frowned as his breathing quickened.

“Regulus!” James tried one last time, raising his voice slightly and let out a relieved sigh as he noticed Regulus quickly snap his mouth shut, tearing his gaze away from James’ hand to lock their eyes together once more.

With a soft smile on his face, James raised his hand to rest gently against Regulus’ jaw. “I’m fine. I’m not in pain. I’m not pale. I don’t feel off. Of course, I would tell you if I was in any discomfort. But I’m not. I’m fine.” James responded to Regulus’ panic, deliberately punctuating every sentence to reassure the younger male the way he knew how, the way he knew would work. He observed closely as Regulus’ shoulders seemed to slump in relief and he allowed their foreheads to gently press against one another.

To prove is point, James rested his possibly-cursed-but-not-actually-cursed hand against Regulus’ jaw to perfectly mirror his other hand, moving his thumb to softly run over Regulus’ cheekbone. “I’m fine, love. I’m sorry that I made you worry. I shouldn’t have tried touching it.” James apologised softly, his breath fanning softly against Regulus’ face as their noses brushed together slightly.

“I’m sorry- I just thought that- worried that touching it would be enough to curse you. It’s got a powerful curse on it, and I know just how malicious his curses can be. I just- I don’t think I could handle him taking you away after everything… I couldn’t do it.” Regulus admitted and closed his eyes tightly before he could allow the tears that were burning his eyes to escape.

“Shhhh.” James hushed softly, thumb still softly caressing Regulus’ cheekbone with a spark of sadness flashing in his eyes. “I’m still here, love. I’m okay. We’re okay.” He whispered soothingly, gently brushing their noses together and urging Regulus to open his eyes again. Regulus complied after a second and stared back into James’ eyes with his own teary gaze.

“I’ve got you, love. You don’t need to worry about me, okay? I’m right here, with you.” James murmured and swallowed softly as he allowed his still-not-actually-cursed hand to slide upwards, his fingers threading through Regulus’ soft curls at the nape of his neck, his touch soft and caring. “I hate seeing you upset, love.” He admitted in a hushed whisper, pulling back slightly from Regulus to press a gentle kiss to his forehead, then his cheeks, then anywhere on Regulus’ face that he could reach. “We’re okay.” He repeated once more as he pressed their lips together for a couple of seconds, the action soft and tentative- clearly testing the waters between them.

Regulus’ breathing shook slightly as his brain caught up with James’ actions. “Jamie… you can’t- we can’t- I won’t do this to Lily- I can’t.” He whispered, guilt seeping into his chest as a lump formed in prominently in his throat.

James smiled softly and nodded in understanding, respecting Regulus’ decision and let out a soft hum. “Lily is a lot like you- not that I have to tell you that.” He started with a soft chuckle, his fingers gently playing with Regulus’ hair. “Even before we got married, she knew that she wasn’t the only person I had in my heart. I warned her before we even got together- told her that I didn’t think that I would ever stop loving you and you know what she said in response? ‘That’s okay, I don’t think that I’ll stop loving him either’.” He admitted with a soft chuckle.

“The only person who knows me like Lily knows me, is you.” James continued, moving to softly grasp Regulus’ hands and gave his hands a reassuring squeeze. “We used to talk about it a lot, had a whole talk for Harry sorted out for whenever he was old enough to ask about being in love. We’d tell him how some people fall in love just once like Remus and Sirius… but others fall in love with more than one person and that’s okay. That there’s more than one way to love someone.” He explained.

“When the announcement came… that you were apparently dead, me and Lils talked about the topic again. Granted, I was already an emotional wreck, but I admitted to her that a small part of me had hoped that you would reappear in our lives, that I would get the chance to love you again. And then I apologised at least twenty times for saying it since we were married- we had Harry. But Lily… as always… she understood me. I remember it so clearly- she grabbed my face and told me in her sternest voice ‘James Potter, don’t you ever apologise for telling me how you feel. I know you and I know how much you still love Regulus- a big part of me still loves him too. Perhaps not everyone will understand it, but I do. You have so much love in your heart and that doesn’t make you a horrible person’.” James revealed with a breathy laugh, clearly trying to mimic Lily which made Regulus laugh quietly too.

“My point is that she knows that I love you and she understands. So, you don’t need to feel any guilt for my actions because she already knows.” James concluded with a reassuring smile and pressed one last kiss to Regulus’ forehead. “Anyway- you don’t need to reply right now. I know you, Regulus Black. And I know you need time to think and space to do so. So, let’s go back to Grimmauld and get dispose of that ring before it can find a chance to curse us.” He joked with a bright smile, carefully rising from his spot on the floor and gently pulled Regulus up with him.

Regulus looked back at James with a concealed gaze, standing up with him and nodded slowly in agreement, not trusting his voice in that moment. He cleared his throat softly and levitated the golden box, keeping one of his hands grasped with James’ as he led them out towards the exit of the shack.

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

Sitting on his bed with a soft sigh, Regulus pulled open the warded drawer that held the diary, destroyed locket and destroyed diadem, glancing across the three items before placing the destroyed ring in the drawer.

The diary was the only horcrux that he was planning on leaving for the time being. It had been rather useful in finding the diadem and even though he had no more plans to talk with the part of Tom’s soul in the diary, it was possible that Lucius had a plan in mind when he came to collect it in the first place. So, he had enlisted Narcissa to keep an eye on both Lucius and the fake diary, just in case he really did have a plan.

He went to close the drawer but paused as the stone, which was still intact, on the ring seemed to glisten in the dim light of his room. Furrowing his eyebrows, his fingers reached for the ring, and he looked at the stone more closely. More specifically, he looked at the coat of arms engraved into the stone and his eyebrows furrowed further as he reached for his journal and drew out the symbol on his paper.

“Why does it look so familiar…?” He mumbled to himself as he put the ring away and closed the drawer, attention shifting to the symbol drawn out on his paper. The symbol that he recognised but couldn’t quite place.

“James!” He called out softly as his gaze remained glued onto the symbol. If he recognised it then there was a chance that James might too.

James, who had been giving Regulus the space to think that he had promised, peered around the door about ten seconds after Regulus had called for him. “Yeah?” He asked softly, taking a couple of steps into the room as he noticed the other’s intent focus on his journal.

Carefully leaning closer to Regulus to peer over his shoulder, James looked at the symbol drawn on the paper with a soft hum. “You’re interested in the Deathly Hallows?” He inquired, eyes widening slightly as Regulus head snapped across to him. “You know this symbol? I recognise it but don’t know what it means.” Regulus admitted as he patted the spot next to him on the bed in invitation.

James quickly moved to join Regulus on the bed, leaning closer to the journal and pointed towards the symbol with his index finger. “That’s the sign of the Deathly Hallows, from the tale of the three brothers.” He explained and allowed his finger to slowly run down the straight, vertical line, “The Elder Wand.” He started, his finger moving towards the circle. “The Resurrection stone,” he continued as his finger shifted from the circle to the triangle which enclosed both the line and circle. “And the Cloak of Invisibility,” he finished and pulled his finger away from the paper. “Together, they make the Deathly Hallows. Together, they make one the Master of Death.”

“So, you own one of the Deathly Hallows?” Regulus questioned, his gaze shifting from the symbol back to James with curiosity. James nodded slowly with a light shrug, “apparently, yes. Since I’m a descendant of Ignotus Peverell, the youngest Peverell brother, the cloak has been passed down from one generation to the next.”

Regulus nodded slowly and closed his journal, placing it on his table with a soft sigh. “Why do you ask about the symbol anyway?” James questioned as he watched Regulus, stretching his arms.

“Oh, because it was on the ring.” Regulus responded, quickly reaching to reopen his warded drawer and pull out the ring, passing it to James. “The ring must have been a Peverell heirloom or something because the stone is engraved with the Deathly Hallows.” He explained as he sat back beside James with a light shrug.

James’ eyebrows crashed together as he took the ring and ran his thumb over the stone, looking closely at the engraving. “That’s odd… you have the Gaunt Family Tree, right?” He queried.

“Yeah, one second, I’ll go grab it from the library.” Regulus confirmed, standing up and quickly exiting the room, returning thirty seconds later with all the paperwork he had on the Gaunt family. “This is everything I can find about the family.” He explained, laying the papers out across his bedsheets so James could look at them all.

Standing up and quickly moving to Regulus’ side, James looked across the paperwork as the other laid it out, his eyes narrowing in concentration as his thumb continued rubbing over the engraving on the stone. They stood in silence for a few minutes as James examined all the papers, pausing as he seemed to find the information that he was looking for. “There!” He spoke with a bright grin flashing onto his face, pointing towards one small sentence on one of the sheets. “The Gaunts are direct descendants of not only Salazar Slytherin but Cadmus Peverell.” He stated triumphantly, his eyes drifting back to the ring clutched between his fingers.

“Okay… so they are descendants of the Peverell’s. What does that mean about the ring?” Regulus questioned, glancing over James’ shoulder to look back at the stone that James seemed to have taken a large interest in.

“Cadmus Peverell was the middle brother. As the story goes, the eldest, Antioch Peverell, requested Death for the Elder Wand and the youngest, Ignotus Peverell, requested Death for the Cloak of Invisibility. So, Cadmus Peverell requested death for the-”, “Resurrection Stone.” Regulus finished James’ sentence, and his breath hitched slightly as he finally caught on to what James was implying.

“And I don’t know about you, but this stone looks very- well- stoneish to me.” James concluded with a soft chuckle, holding the ring back out to Regulus with a light smile. “The story goes that the stone needs to be turned three times in the user’s hand.” He added, nodding reassuringly to Regulus.

The younger carefully took the ring and fiddled with the stone, eyebrows furrowing in concentration as he managed to pry the stone away from the golden band it had been secured to. Allowing the gold band to fall onto the bed, Regulus stared at the stone for a couple of seconds, his heart pounding in his ears.

“The stone will only work for as long as you hold it.” James reassured Regulus, knowing that the male was likely worried about bringing his parents back from the dead- the same parents he had knowingly murdered.

Regulus nodded slowly and cleared his throat. “There’s no guarantee that the stone is even real anyway- it could just be a simple stone.” He whispered as he slowly turned the stone three times in his hand, chewing on his bottom lip as nerves grew in his stomach.

For a moment, he was certain that the stone was fake and was about to joke to James about believing in all fairytales. That was until two shadows began to form in the room, two shadows that slowly morphed into the figures of Orion and Walburga Black. For a moment Regulus’ breath caught in his throat and he wanted to drop the stone and forget all about the possibility of reuniting with his parents. That was until he saw a third shadow form closer to him. His eyebrows furrowed in confusion as his brain ran through all the people who had died that he loved in some way. There was only Orion and Walburga that he knew of.

“Reg, you okay?” James questioned softly from his side, carefully resting his hand on the younger’s shoulder. Regulus only nodded lightly in response; his eyes glued to the shadow that slowly began to form features. It was too familiar.

“Evan?” Regulus whispered, feeling the moment part of his heart broke.

The familiar blonde smiled solemnly towards Regulus, shrugging his shoulders lightly in defeat. “Hey, Reggie.” Evan replied softly, taking a slow step closer to Regulus, “you look old.” He teased.

Before he realised it, tears rolled down Regulus’ cheeks as he slowly shook his head. “No… not you. You can’t be-” He denied, his voice breaking as he continued to shake is head in adamant disbelief. “You’re not dead, Evan- you can’t be.” He whispered, an ache in his chest only growing the longer he stared at Evan.

“I’ll admit that I was surprised not to see you again when I had died. Both me and Barty assumed that you had died when the Prophet announced it. You hadn’t been in touch, and we knew you would have been if you were still alive. Turns out you were stuck in some sort of stasis until James found you.” Evan explained with a soft smile, reaching a hand out to rest against Regulus’ arm, the gesture offering more support than it should have since Regulus couldn’t actually feel it.

“So- when did you…?” Regulus questioned hesitantly, quickly moving to wipe away the tears on his cheeks.

“Die? Early 1981, the months had all blurred together, but I think it might have been January? Perhaps February. It was Moody that got me in the end. I gave him just as much though, its only a shame I didn’t kill the bastard. Suppose half his face will just have to do.” Evan explained with a light shrug and a soft sigh before looking at Regulus with a serious gaze. “You cannot blame yourself for this. I mean it, Reg. We all knew the risks when we signed up and I just happened to run out of luck.”

The ache in Regulus’ chest only got worse as he listened to Evan, his mouth dry as tears continued to roll down his cheeks.

“Reggie- fuck- I need you to promise me something, okay?” Evan questioned, taking a shaky breath as tears brimmed his own eyes. Regulus quickly nodded in response, clearing his dry throat and wincing slightly at the feeling, “of course, Ev. Anything.”

“Once you’ve finished with whatever crazy plan you’re trying to pull off… promise me that you’ll find Barty and you’ll make sure he doesn’t do anything stupid. Merlin knows what trouble he might have found himself in and you’re the only person he’ll listen to.” Evan demanded, a soft smile on his face as he glanced towards James with a conflicted expression flashing in his eyes.

“I will, Evan. I promise, I’ll find him.” Regulus vowed, following Evan’s gaze towards James with confusion. “What is it, Ev?” He questioned as he looked back towards his best friend.

Evan’s gaze remained on James for a few more seconds before he slowly shook his head with a sad smile. “Nothing… not my story to tell.” He responded, taking a step back and glanced towards Orion and Walburga wearily. “Perhaps today isn’t the day to try and deal with those two.” He mumbled so only Regulus would hear him, a playful smile flashing across his lips. “I’m sure we’ll be summoned back here when you decide to use the stone because of bloody course you found the Resurrection Stone.” He sighed exasperatedly and playfully rolled his eyes.

A quiet laugh escaped Regulus’ lips as he wiped away the remainder of his tears and nodded. “Another day.” He replied with a shaky breath, glancing down at the stone and then back to Evan. “I’ll find him.” He vowed once again with a firm nod of his head.

“I know you will, Reg.” Evan replied and glanced towards the stone with a warm smile growing on his face. “I’ll always be here when you need me, with or without the stone. I’m with you, Reg.” He vowed with a reassuring nod as Regulus gently dropped the stone onto the bed, all three shadows fading the moment the stone left Regulus’ hand.

A moment later, James flooded Regulus’ vision and rested his hands on both of his shoulders. “Are you okay?” He questioned, concern brimming in his eyes as he observed Regulus closely.

The tears that had come to a halt when he was talking to Evan quickly made a reappearance as the ache in Regulus’ chest only grew. “He wasn’t supposed to die.” He whispered as he slowly looked at James with his teary eyes, a sob ripping itself from his throat as James’ face softened as he pulled Regulus into a warm hug.

“I’m so sorry, Regulus.” James whispered sincerely, resting his head on the other’s as he held him close, Regulus’ body trembling as he allowed himself to completely fall apart in James’ arms.

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

“Bellatrix.” Regulus stated as he entered the kitchen, where James had been silently drinking a cup of tea. “Bellatrix?” James repeated, his eyebrows furrowing as he tried to piece together what precisely Regulus was trying to tell him.

“When Narcissa was here with Lucius, she mentioned that Tom had given Lucius the diary but also implied that Bella had also been given something, remember?” Regulus explained, taking a seat opposite James as he stared at the male expectantly.

Narcissa’s eyebrows furrowed as she looked at the diary, a quiet hum escaping her lips in understanding. “The Dark Lord gave that to Lucius. I still clearly remember the day he did. Lucius looked so proud of himself, and he wasn’t the only one, Bella was quite impressed with herself too. I, myself, could never see the importance of that diary but it must be something important if the dark magic that emanates it means anything.”

“Are you sure that meant that Bellatrix had been given a horcrux too?” James questioned, taking a long sip of his tea as he observed Regulus, who seemed to want to ask something but was still inwardly fighting with himself.

“It’s definitely not a guarantee but it is the best lead we’ve got for possible next steps. It follows the pattern that Majorie pointed out. Horcruxes are always either in places that mean something to him or with people that he trusts. Bella was basically his right-hand woman. She’s obsessed with him and would take any secrets entrusted to her to the grave.” Regulus stated, summoning across another mug and the teapot to pour himself some tea.

“So, what’s with the inward battle you’re having then?” James pondered and lightly tapped his chin as he rested his head in his hand. “Because it’s obvious that something is bothering you.” He added.

Regulus stared at James for a second, annoyance flashing in his eyes at the fact that James could read him so well and he let out a defeated sigh. “I was thinking about places we could check and since Narcissa let me know that Bella is currently in Azkaban, it narrowed down the places to search. If she was given a horcrux, she would put it somewhere secure where she knew that no one would be able to stumble across it. Lestrange Manor is too obvious, and she wouldn’t hide it any of the Black properties since, unlike Lucius, she uses her brain and knows that Sirius knows where all the Black Properties are.” Regulus explained, fiddling with his fingers as he eyed James closely. “So, the only real place I could think of would be her vault at Gringotts.” He added, slowly rubbing his neck.

“Just ask whatever it is you need to ask, love.” James replied, noticing that Regulus still seemed to be having some sort of battle with himself.

“Look, I’ve tried to find another option, but I cannot see any other viable option… so, I need you to get in contact with Sirius.” Regulus admitted, his voice growing quicker and quieter as he spoke, cringing slightly to himself at the request.

He really had tried to find any other option. He had even plotted several ways he could attempt to break into Gringotts unnoticed, but every single plan had too many variables that could go wrong and they couldn’t risk Bellatrix discovering that someone had stolen from her vault.

“Since I’m technically dead, Sirius will have automatically been made Black Heir again, meaning that he has the power to access any vault that falls under the Black Family. And technically, since all the Lestranges are in Azkaban as well, their vaults fall under the Black Family since Bella is still, unfortunately, family.” Regulus rambled in explanation the moment he had noticed James’ entire body freeze in alarm. “We would only need him to check if the horcrux is there… any maybe even sneak it out of the vault so we can destroy it…” He spoke simply, though he was still cringing at the thought of having to put Sirius in such danger.

They sat in an apparent stagnant silence as James seemed to be trying to grapple with his own words, mouth opening and closing a few times before he managed to find some way to respond. “I mean- that makes the most sense, sure… but couldn’t you just go and prove to the Goblins that you’re still alive? Surely that would be enough to get you reinstated as heir- then we wouldn’t have to involve Sirius.” James reasoned, voice stuttering and unsteady as he actively thought of alternative options.

“It wouldn’t matter that I’m still alive, he’s classed as the oldest and since he’ll have been reinstated, I wouldn’t be able to question that without getting him involved. James, we don’t have any other options. Trust me, I’ve tried to come up with any other options but there aren’t any.” Regulus replied, his eyes narrowing in suspicion as he watched James try to offer another option.

“Why are you so opposed to it, anyway? It’s not like Sirius wasn’t fighting in the war anyway. Usually, you two can’t keep any secrets from each other so why the hesitation now?” Regulus pushed, an instinct in his head insisting that James was hiding something from him.

“I just- it’ll be easier if it’s just the two of us.” James stammered, looking frantically around the room as though he was trying to change the subject in the hopes that Regulus would just forget about it.

Clocking the other’s reactions, Regulus’ eyebrows furrowed deeply, and he crossed his arms over his chest. “James, what the fuck is going on? You’re acting so weird about this one thing so don’t even try to tell me that it’s nothing. Tell me what’s going on, right now.” He demanded, his jaw clenching slightly as he stared at James with a mixture of curiosity and anger.

James tried to grapple for any excuse he could for another couple of seconds before letting out a soft sigh of defeat the moment his hazel eyes locked with Regulus’ silvery-green ones. “Kreacher?” He requested softly, a flash of sadness swimming in his eyes.

“Yes, Mr Potter?” Kreacher questioned as he appeared at James’ side, glancing between the two for a moment.

“Can you please get me that copy of the paper?” James questioned.

“Is Mr Potter certain?” Kreacher replied, taking another glance at Regulus who was growing more confused.

“Yes, Kreacher. It’s time for me to come clean about everything.” James admitted and gave Kreacher a firm nod. “The paper please.”  Kreacher simply nodded in response and disapparated with a soft pop.

“James, what’s going on?” Regulus repeated, his voice softer with more confusion than anger in his eyes.

James took a deep breath and gazed at Regulus with the flash of sadness steadily growing. “I think you should make yourself comfortable, love. There are some things I need to tell you.”

Chapter Text

“James?” Regulus repeated in a softer tone, noticing the other’s discomfort.

James Potter looked guilty. Guiltier than Regulus had ever seen before, and it was only the look of growing guilt in James’ eyes that made Regulus realise that he was not going to like what he was about to be told.

Leaning forward in his chair and resting his arms on the table, Regulus observed James closely. He hesitated for just a couple of seconds before he reached across the table to gently grab James’ arm, a smile that he hoped was reassuring flashing across his face. “You know that you can tell me anything, Jamie. Despite my constant threats to hex you, you know I wouldn’t really, right?” He questioned softly, worry flooding into his eyes.

James smiled lightly in response, slowly nodding in an attempt to reassure Regulus. An attempt that did not work. “There’s no easy way for me to explain this to you… I still don’t fully understand all the hows or whys myself. But it is important to me that you know that I wanted to help you. This wasn’t something I was forced into and if I’d have known what you were up to before everything that happened… I would have helped you.” James explained vaguely as a soft pop announced Kreacher’s re-entrance into the room, holding a newspaper tightly in his hand.

Taking a soft breath, James smiled lightly towards Kreacher and carefully took the newspaper from the reluctant house-elf. “We can’t protect him from this anymore, Kreacher. He needs to know.” He told the house-elf, an encouraging smile on his face which Kreacher nodded tightly at in response.

James let out a soft breath and gently slid the newspaper towards Regulus with a sad smile on his face. “The day before I saved you from the cave… on the 31^st October 1981, something happened. Something big. And I can only apologise for keeping it from you but, at the time, it felt like the right thing to do. We had to finish your mission.” He explained with a half-hearted smile, the sadness and guilt still swimming around in his hazel eyes.

Regulus looked between James and the newspaper with furrowed eyebrows, a lump steadily forming in his throat as his fingers moved swiftly, almost by their own accord to open up the paper, one hand still remaining steadily on James’ arm. Regulus’ eyes darted across the front page until a breath caught in his throat as he read the headline.

Reign of Terror by You-Know-Who is Over, Infant Potter Survives Shocking Attack!

From there, Regulus’ eyes moved quickly at he read through the article as the lump in this throat only grew. His mind was racing as he took in the new information. James and Lily had been murdered by Tom Riddle? Sirius had betrayed them? Sirius had murdered both muggles and Peter Pettigrew? Harry had somehow survived the killing curse and had been left with nothing but a scar? James was dead…?

He must have read through the article five times before he managed to tear his gaze away from the newspaper and back towards the man opposite him. Thirty seconds of silence followed as Regulus tried to remember how to speak, the lump remaining steadfast in his throat and preventing any words from making their way out. Regulus didn’t understand what James was trying to tell him.

“How…? How did you and Lily manage to escape?” Regulus managed to voice out, his voice small and almost silent with a slight tremble in the words. Obviously, James and Lily must have escaped, James was sat in front of him. So, how did they do it? And how did they manage to convince the wizarding world that they had died?

Guilt pushed itself to the forefront of James’ eyes as he heard Regulus’ question, his ears straining to catch every word and he felt as his heart dropped. Gently resting his hand on Regulus’, James chewed on his bottom lip, obviously trying to figure out how to properly explain everything. How he wished the had prepared more. A part of him had hoped that Regulus could stay in the dark for just a little while longer.

“We didn’t, Reg.” James admitted carefully, still chewing anxiously on his bottom lip as he decided to press on. There was no point in Regulus only knowing a little bit, he needed to know everything. “Me and Lily- we both died that night. I have no clue how but Harry- my little fawn… he survived. For some reason the killing curse sent his way rebounded and killed Tom Riddle instead.” He explained, his voice clear even as his words trembled slightly. “Stupidly, I thought that I could save them both… I didn’t even have my wand.” He admitted with a light self-deprecating smile flashing across his lips.

“But you’re here. You’re obviously not dead because you’re right here!” Regulus countered, voice raising slightly as he shook his head, denial setting into his mind as he thought purely of the facts. Dead people could not walk, talk and live like they were still alive. It wasn’t possible.

“I still don’t understand how I’m here,” James admitted and gently squeezed Regulus’ hand with a light smile on his face. “When I died… I saw this spirit of sorts, I don’t know who they were or where they came from, but they told me that you were trapped in that cave. They explained how you would be trapped there for an eternity- trapped with those things for an eternity. An ancient magic had tethered itself to you and to the ‘mortal realm’ and it’s going to keep you here until you have finished your mission.”

Regulus listened to James- he really did listen, but nothing was making any sense to him. To a certain extent he could understand the ancient magic keeping him alive since James had already explained that when he had originally pulled Regulus out of the water. But James insisting that he was… dead. No, that wasn’t possible.

“Love…” James whispered softly as he watched Regulus’ expression switch from confusion to just straight denial. Regulus didn’t want to believe James because believing him meant that James was dead, and Regulus would never believe that. He would never accept that.

“I know why I’m not as receptive to dark magic as you are.” James started, gently prying his arm from Regulus’ soft grip as he pulled his shirt over his head and placed it on the table. “It’s because I’m not mortal like you… my stay in this world is only temporary- only until you don’t need me anymore.” He explained as his exposed chest started to turn ever so slightly transparent, the transparency building for a couple of seconds until Regulus could only just make out the back of James’ chair and the kitchen counter through his chest and abdomen.

That one act seemed to blow all the wind out of Regulus’ sails, the small insistence of denial in his head getting smaller by the second. James was a ghost- sort of. A ghost but not. Regulus could still hold onto James- could still hold his hand- could still hug him- could still kiss him.

But he wasn’t… alive.

“No…” Regulus whispered, defeat in his tone as his heart dropped into his stomach and tears didn’t bother to give him any prewarning- instead just rolling down his cheeks in a constant flow. He looked away from James, face contorting through several expressions which reached a mixture of anger and despair. “I didn’t risk everything to get that fucking horcrux for you to end up dead because of that man. I didn’t- I won’t do this- can’t do this. You can’t be dead.” Regulus spoke, through it sounded more like a plead for James to tell him that all of this was just one big, stupid joke. The words were eerily similar to the ones he spoke when he originally thought James was dead in the cave.

Regulus’ head dropped into his hands as a sob ripped itself from his throat, his brain debating whether to curl up in the tightest ball possible or destroy the whole house with no option in-between.

James was dead. Lily was dead. James and Lily- they were both dead, both gone. What sort of sick joke was that? The two people so full of life and yet some ancient magic decided that he- Regulus Black- was worth saving? What could he possibly have to offer to make him more worthy of saving compared to James Potter and Lily Evans?

Why couldn’t his death alone have been enough? Why did death have to take them both away?

Warm arms wrapped themselves securely around Regulus as he continued to sob, head growing hazy and dizzy from all the emotions and thoughts racing through him all at ones. “I’m so sorry, Regulus.” James whispered softly as he pulled Regulus against his, now clothed, chest.

“You can’t be dead… why did it have to be you?” Regulus questioned through sobs, voice unsteady as he shook his head against James’ chest, trying to work through all his thoughts. “Have mine- I don’t need it! You can have my life- it should have been you anyway. We could swap- I don’t need it!” He insisted, furiously wiping at his cheeks as he tried to slow his tears to no avail.

James shook his head slowly in denial, hand reaching down to cup Regulus’ cheek and carefully brush away every tear as it fell. “It’s not my life to live, Regulus. It’s yours.” He stated softly, pressing a soft kiss to Regulus’ head and soothingly rubbed circles into his back. “Don’t you ever offer your life in exchange for mine, you hear me? It’s yours.”

“But I don’t want it if you’re not there.” Regulus confessed in a hushed whisper, staring up at James as tears continued to flow down his cheeks.

“Listen to me, Regulus Arcturus Black.” James spoke, thumb continuing to brush away Regulus’ tears. “I will always be with you. Even if it’s not in the same way as I am right now. Even if I’m not right beside you, I will always be with you. I will always be watching over you and there is nothing that could ever change that.” He vowed.

James’ words didn’t help to stop Regulus’ tears, if anything it made it worse but the two sat in the kitchen with a silence that was only interrupted with Regulus’ sniffles and James’ soft murmurs of reassurance. The silence span for about ten minutes- perhaps twenty but was finally broken when Regulus’ tears had finally stopped and his attention was back on the newspaper. There was one other part of that story that made absolutely no sense to him.

“Sirius would never betray you.” Regulus stated with a tired voice, leaving no space in his tone for discussion or debate. There was no viable way Sirius Black would ever betray James Potter.

“Sirius didn’t betray us.” James replied, his jaw tightening as he glanced towards the newspaper with a toxic mix of hatred and betrayal bubbling underneath the surface. “Peter did.” He admitted with his jaw only clenching harsher in anger, teeth grinding together slightly as he tried to keep a firm grip on his rising anger.

Regulus’ eyes snapped from the paper to James, his eyes narrowing slightly as his hands steadily clenched into tight fists. “Pettigrew betrayed you?” He clarified, something dangerous sparking in his eyes when James nodded.

“Sirius is in Azkaban.” James admitted as he looked back at Regulus. “Snape told me when we ran into him at Hogwarts… he didn’t even get any sort of trial, was just shoved into Azkaban.” He explained, reaching to hold onto Regulus’ wrists as the younger’s own anger began to properly bubble.

“So, what… Dumbledore couldn’t try and keep one of his valiant Order members out of Azkaban?” Regulus sneered, spitting Dumbledore’s name with a hatred that had been brewing in him for years.

“That’s just the thing…” James interrupted before Regulus could properly start his scathing rant about everything he hated about Albus Dumbledore. “Dumbledore has apparently been playing us all for fools. Snape reckons that he knows a lot more than he’s letting on about everything.”

“What else did Snape tell you precisely?” Regulus questioned, eyes narrowing in suspicion. Surely James was aware that Snape was a Death Eater and although he was much more tolerable than any other Death Eaters, surely he was still loyal to Tom Riddle. Regulus didn’t care if the man referenced them both being double agents, it would be easy enough to pretend since Tom was temporarily gone.

“Snape is a spy for Dumbledore. He turned after Tom found out about the prophecy. But- it might just be easier if I start from the beginning of our conversation.” James admitted with a light, sheepish smile flashing across his lips as he took a deep breath. “So, obviously I asked to speak to Snape privately and you cast a muffliato around us…”

James turned back towards Severus and took a couple of careful steps forwards. “Look, you don’t owe me anything but there is an explanation for all of this.”

Severus eyed James with suspicion as Regulus wrapped the two in a muffliato charm, looking between the two with clear uneasiness.

Once the charm had set over them, Severus began to speak before James could with anger more prominently in his eyes. “Of course, Precious Potter would have found a way to escape that house completely unharmed. I’ll admit that you had me fooled but you always did have more stupid dumb luck than the average wizard.” He sneered with his nose scrunching in disgust. “Look- Snape, just listen to me-”, “Though I will admit that abandoning your son is not very Gryffindor of you, but you were never a particularly responsible person.” Snape drawled, clearly wanting to get as many jabs in as quickly as he could.

James took a deep breath. Where he once would have retaliated with his own cruel words, he instead opted to let the digs brush off him. They had more important things to discuss and they would never get to it if Severus had his heart set on arguing. No matter how much James deserved the words being thrown at him.

“I’m dead!” James interrupted when Severus was taking a breath in his angry tirade. The two words effectively forced Severus’ mouth to snap shut as confusion flickered in his onyx eyes and his shoulders tensed up.

This was James’ chance to get everything out whilst Snape had been caught off guard.

“I did die that night. I didn’t escape Voldemort and I am, as we speak, buried six feet under. I would never abandon Harry like that, but death hasn’t precisely given me any real choice.” James rambled, taking a quick glance in Regulus’ direction. “Look, I don’t know how this is possible. I don’t know why I got the chance to come back for a short while, but Regulus needed me. His reckless mission needed me.”

“And what mission might that be?” Snape questioned with his eyebrow raising.

“Voldemort isn’t gone. But I bet you already knew that.” James murmured, glancing towards Severus’ left forearm with a sadness in his eyes. “He’ll be back, and he has enlisted a very dark magic to do it. Regulus found out about this dark magic and has set out to find every piece of it and destroy it, making him mortal once again. Only then can this world finally be rid of him. For good.”

The more James spoke, the more Severus’ anger seemed to fade into some sort of understanding and the tension slowly seeped out of his shoulders.

“You are helping him find all of these pieces of dark magic?” Severus clarified as he crossed his arms over his chest, letting out a quiet hum when James nodded. “I don’t know how long I have to help him but I’m going to do everything I can to help him.” James explained, eyeing Snape for a moment. “Did you know that Peter was a Death Eater?” He questioned hesitantly.

The confusion in Severus’ eyes answered James’ question entirely but the man still gave a definitive reply. “No, I didn’t know Peter was a Death Eater, just like I wasn’t aware that Black was one”, “Sirius isn’t a Death Eater. Despite what the world seems to think, Sirius wasn’t the Secret Keeper. Peter was.” James interrupted, his jaw clenching at the reminder of his oldest friend’s betrayal.

Severus took a couple of seconds to allow James’ words to sink in, his eyebrows furrowing slightly. “I’ll admit that I did find it mildly questionable that Black was sent straight to Azkaban without a trial. But perhaps that is the way that Dumbledore planned it.” He shrugged, although it was obvious that Snape was having a hard time realising that Sirius was innocent.

James let out a light scoff, which earned a twitch of Severus’ eyebrow in response. “Dumbledore is the reason that we were still at Godric’s Hollow.” He muttered tightly, his anger only growing but upon noticing the other male’s growing confusion, he let out a soft sigh and rubbed his neck. “We were planning on leaving the country.” He stated, his shoulders slumping slightly. “After Dumbledore had told us that there was a prophecy that put the three of us in immediate danger, we were moved to Godric’s Hollow, but it never felt like enough. Me and Lily- we were getting more and more paranoid, so we agreed that it would be best if we fled the country until the war was over. We told Dumbledore what we were planning, and he had initially agreed with us.” James explained.

“Initially?” Snape questioned, his own jaw clenching as his mind jumped to how the story was going to end.

“He reassured us that he would secure us a portkey out of the country but apparently there was a ‘small hiccup’. We were supposed to leave on the 30^th of October, but he managed to convince us to stay just one extra day. We were only hours away from leaving the country when Voldemort showed up.” James concluded with a frown settled onto his face.

Snape’s eyes darkened as he listened to James, his jaw only clenching tighter as a silent fury ignited in his dark eyes. “The old fool knew that Voldemort had discovered part of the prophecy.” He spat, his face sobering for a moment as guilt flashed in his eyes. “I was the one who had overheard part of the prophecy and told Voldemort.” He admitted, wincing slightly at the harsh reminder that he had caused the death of the woman who was once his best friend. The woman he loved. “The moment I realised that the prophecy involved your son, I went to Dumbledore and pleaded with him to get her- to get you all to safety. I always believed that I was too late.”

“It’s not your fault, Severus.” James replied fiercely, shocking Severus with the impact of his words. “I know that you and I have never really seen eye-to-eye and I know that a big part of that is my fault. To be frank, I was horrible- horrific even- to you for no real reason… just because you were close to Lily…” He pushed on, guilt flourishing in his chest as he forced his eyes to remain locked with Snape’s. “It may not mean a whole lot coming from a dead man, but I apologise for everything, Severus. And if Lily knew that you were blaming yourself for our deaths- for her death- she would scold you into the next week.” He stated, eyes serious as he took a soft breath, “we put our faith in the wrong people and that is not your fault. We trusted Dumbledore. We trusted Peter. And it cost us everything- cost us… our little fawn…” James trailed off, looking away for a moment as sadness and grief swelled in his chest.

“But that-” He continued, looking back towards Snape with the same ferocity in his eyes, “-that is not your fault. So, never blame yourself. You offered yourself to Dumbledore to try and save my family, that is something that I will never be able to repay you for. But please do not allow guilt and grief to control the rest of your life.”

Severus stared at James for a few seconds with an indecipherable expression before the man seemed to soften, even though there was still a guarded look on his face. There was still a fury burning in his eyes but that seemed to be only for Albus Dumbledore.

“Perhaps… you are not quite as intolerable as you were when we were in school.” Severus admitted after a couple of seconds, firmly nodding towards James. “And if you happen to need my help with those pieces of dark magic, you may owl me.” He offered.

They weren’t friends but James doubted that they would ever have been friends. But he would much rather try and alleviate some of Snape’s guilt- as well as some of his own. For the first time in their lives, James Potter and Severus Snape were on the same page.

“I appreciate that, Severus. I don’t know how much longer I have here, but I will make sure that Regulus knows that he can reach out to you if he needs to.” James vowed with a light smile.

“He doesn’t know, does he?” Snape questioned as he glanced back towards Regulus, who was looking increasingly antsy.

“No. He doesn’t.” James confirmed, sending a small smile of reassurance Regulus’ way as he looked from Regulus to Severus. “I will tell him soon. But he needs to stay focused on his mission right now. I dread the day I must tell him though. Dumbledore will be lucky to survive it.” 

Severus’ lip twitched into a slight smirk as he nodded lightly in agreement. “Another wizard with stupid dumb luck. But one day, he will make one wrong enemy, and that enemy will crumble everything he has been working on. Speaking of, I believe that he knows more about the night of your death than he is letting on.” He confessed, gaze serious. “It may be wise if you request that the younger Black keeps an eye on your son. Intuition tells me that Dumbledore has something planned, I just don’t know what.”

James stared at Severus for a moment, searching for anything in his expression that would lead James to believe that the man was being dramatic. But there was nothing but pure warning. “Thanks for the warning. I’ll let Regulus know.”

“Who’d have thought that you and Snape could have a civilised conversation.” Regulus joked as James finished explaining his chat with Severus, though the joke did not cover the growing anger in Regulus. He was positively irate and was certain that if Albus Dumbledore appeared in front of him, he would be a dead man.

As for Peter Pettigrew, that rat was on borrowed time and Regulus would make him pay. For James. For Lily. For Harry. For Sirius. That rat would pay his dues, and Regulus would make sure that the rat knew that he was coming for him. He just needed to find him first.

James’ hands gently rested on Regulus’ shoulders, worried hazel eyes searching for his silvery-green ones. “They’ll get what’s coming to them, love. I fully believe that. But we can’t afford to tunnel vision on them, we need to get rid of all the horcruxes first.” James reminded him softly, a soft smile on his face.

Regulus, though still furious, slowly nodded in agreement and sighed softly. “You’re right…” He grumbled, thinking back to what started their conversation: Bellatrix’s Gringotts Vault. “Well, since Sirius is… incarcerated… and I’m the only male heir still alive and not in prison, I should technically be heir and be able to access Bella’s vault. I’ll just need to meet with the goblin in charge of the Black accounts.” He explained, a headache steadily setting in from the day’s revelations.

 “We’ll come up with a plan in the next couple of days. But for now, lets get some rest.” James suggested, smiling warmly as Regulus nodded in agreement.

Together, the duo stood up and started to make their way up the stairs, coming to a halt outside of Regulus’ bedroom. “I’ll see you in the morning?” James questioned softly, guilt still swimming in his eyes as he observed the younger. Regulus shook his head slowly, reaching out to grab James’ hand and gently chewed on his bottom lip. “Can you… stay with me?” He requested softly, his chest tightening every time his brain reminded him that James was technically dead. They didn’t have a lot of time left together- Regulus didn’t even know how much longer they had together.

James’ gaze softened at the request, and he nodded, following Regulus into his room and laid down on the bed in complete silence. He waited until Regulus’ head rested against his chest, the steady heartbeat reverberating through his chest to help lull Regulus to sleep.

“Always…” He whispered softly, a soft promise that he would always be there. Even when, physically, he wasn’t.

A part of Regulus wondered if he should have been angrier at James than he was since the man had kept so much information from him. The problem was that Regulus had always had a soft spot for James in his heart and even when he should be angry with him, he never could be. So, he would keep that anger channelled directly on three people: Dumbledore, Pettigrew and Riddle. Regulus was going to end all three of them and that wasn’t solely a threat, it was a vow that he silently made to himself.

The world was better without the three of them in it.

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

A few days later came their regularly scheduled visit to Majorie and although Regulus still felt like he had, emotionally, been trampled by a herd of Graphorns, he still managed to force himself to dress up for the visit.

Just as James had said, they had set up a plan to visit Gringotts. Or more specifically, they had set up a plan for Regulus to visit Gringotts. It was possible that the goblin’s could ask too many questions if a dead James Potter showed up, so Regulus decided that he would go alone but did promise that if he wasn’t granted access to Bellatrix’s vault, he would go straight back to Grimmauld Place and not do anything reckless.

So, Regulus had sent Kreacher to Gringotts with a letter requesting a meeting with the Black Family Account Manager, a goblin called Graagkord, in one of their private rooms. Kreacher had been sent back within an hour with a letter detailing a date, time and room for Regulus to meet with Graagkord the next week.

Regulus only hoped that Graagkord would be able to help him, and Bellatrix would have hidden her horcrux in her private vault. If it was in the Lestrange vault, then there was nothing they would be able to do except attempt to break in, which was far too risky.

With all their plans set in place, Regulus had reminded James about their visit to Majorie, which put a big smile on the male’s face. Since they had met the elderly muggle, both James and Regulus had grown fond of her. She treated them like they were her own children with the way she worried and scolded them when she believed that they weren’t eating enough. A part of Regulus couldn’t help but wonder that if the warmth he felt around Majorie was similar to how having a family was supposed to feel.

Even though he had been quieter than usual when they had arrived at Majorie’s cottage, the woman didn’t press him with incessant questions. She instead opted to cut him a slightly larger slice of her signature cream cake and caressed his cheek with a warm smile as she passed it to him.

She was all caught up with their horcrux search and had, as usual, insisted that the duo take precautions and be careful. She worried about them.

But they also discussed more light-hearted topics. Apparently, Mrs Matthews down the street had been complaining about the ‘weeds’ that had been spreading around the village, insisting that it had a sinister purpose. Majorie insisted that it was just the case that Mrs Matthews did not know how to properly weed her garden.

For a small village, there was always something going on. Always a small drama here or there. But it never failed to make both James and Regulus smile.

“James dear, I wonder if you might do me a favour?” Majorie spoke up as they had properly finished their tea and cake. Perking up from his spot, James tilted his head slightly with a warm smile growing on his face. “Of course, what do you need?” He questioned softly, sitting up properly in his chair.

“Could you please grab me some apples from the apple tree in the back garden? I want to try my hand at my old apple pie recipe and you’re much taller than this old lady is.” Majorie explained with a warm smile on her face, motioning towards the basket that was on the counter right beside the back door. “Just enough to fill about half the basket will do.”

James smiled brightly in response and stood up, nodding. “Sure. I’ll get you those apples for you.” He declared as he used the table to push himself up, striding towards the back door with a warm smile remaining on his face. Without complaint, he grabbed the basket and headed into the back garden, silently telling himself to fill the basket instead of just half. Majorie would end up needing a whole basket with the way she baked.

The moment James had disappeared out of the back door, Majorie turned towards Regulus with a soft smile on her face. “Forgive me if I’m overstepping, sweetheart. But it seems to me that you are grieving someone or something.” She pressed softly, gently taking a hold of Regulus’ hand, “perhaps both?”

Regulus was certain that he would be able to brush off all Majorie’s concerns and worries but just one look into her eyes made him crumble. His shoulders slumped slightly as he leaned back in his chair, gently squeezing the woman’s hand. “Both.” He admitted with a soft sigh.

Majorie was one of the only other people in the world that Regulus knew he could trust, the first being James. She always knew what to say or do and Regulus had been struggling with all the revelations a lot more than he showed.

“In the past week I’ve discovered that my brother is in prison for a crime he didn’t commit and two people that I love are dead because of the same man I’m trying to find.” He stated, closing his eyes with a shaky breath. “And I don’t know how to handle it all.” He admitted in a quiet voice, head hung in defeat.

A moment later, Majorie’s hand gently rubbed Regulus’ shoulder in a comforting motion as her other hand occasionally squeezed Regulus’. “That is a lot to handle, sweetheart.” She confessed with a soft sigh, glancing out the back window to look at James for a moment. “You know… a part of me did suspect that James was somewhat… in-between worlds.”

Regulus’ eyes snapped open and rushed to find the woman as his eyebrows furrowed. “What do you mean?” He questioned, both shock and confusion washing over his features.

“It’s quite a rare thing, for someone to be trapped in an in-between. Not entirely alive but not dead either.” Majorie continued, still reassuringly rubbing Regulus’ shoulder. “Call it an old woman’s intuition. Since I first met the two of you, I could sense that there was something that James needed to tell you but couldn’t for some reason. But when you arrived today, he seemed lighter in a way which told me that he had finally told you. He’s lighter but still distressed.” She explained, carefully articulating and searching for the right words. “He’s fading, isn’t he?”

That one question was enough to burst the dam Regulus had spent days building, a quiet sob escaping his lips as he nodded and quickly brought his hands up to cover his face. The hand rubbing Regulus’ shoulders shifted as Majorie moved closer and pulled Regulus into a warm hug, still rubbing soothingly into his back. “I’m so sorry, sweetheart.” She uttered and kept the male together as he started to slowly fall apart in the woman’s arms.

“You’re both so strong, Regulus. So strong.” Majorie spoke with a soft voice, pulling back ever so slightly to get a better look at Regulus’ face. “And you both love each other so much. Anyone with eyes can see it.” She smiled sadly, carefully wiping away Regulus’ tears. “You both deserve so much better than this and if I could stop him from fading away, I would. In a heartbeat I would.”

“You can’t save everyone in a war…” Regulus mumbled bitterly as tears continuously rolled down his cheeks. “His wife… Lily. She died too.” He whispered, frantically wiping his cheeks to try and stop his tears. “I love them both so much and I don’t know how I’m supposed to keep going when they’re gone- when he’ll be gone.” He admitted with a breathy, sad laugh.

“It’s never an easy thing to do.” Majorie confessed with a soft smile on her face. “But you will manage to keep moving forwards, Regulus. I suspect that you have more people around you then you realise. The only thing we can do after loss is put one foot in front of another. It’s not easy and some days it can feel hopeless, but I can assure you that, one day, you’ll be more likely to smile when you think of them than cry. It never really stops hurting but it gets easier to remember them in a way that focuses on the good rather than the devastation of losing them in the first place.”

Taking a couple of shaky breaths, Regulus continued to wipe away his tears as he listened to the woman, curiosity flashing in his eyes. A soft laugh came from Majorie the moment she noticed the younger’s curiosity despite his tearful eyes, a soft smile remaining on her face. “I lost my husband just over ten years ago. One day his heart just gave out and he was ripped away from us.” She explained, a distinct sadness in her eyes as she let out a soft sigh. “Even now I still miss him every single day, but it has gotten easier to remember him. I was a complete mess when he first passed but I still had my son and some close friends. I was surrounded by family and although it didn’t help to stop the pain, it did make the pain a little easier to bear.”

“I’m sorry for your loss.” Regulus whispered softly in response as his tears finally managed to slow and he finished wiping them away, breathing still shaky as he tried to recompose himself.

“I’m sorry for yours too, sweetheart.” Majorie replied as she gave Regulus one last squeeze in their hug before pulling back completely. “You will always be welcome here, Regulus. So, if you ever need anything, all you need to do is ask.” She added with a reassuring smile.

“Thank you.” Regulus spoke sincerely, using a napkin to pat down his damp cheek and softly cleared his throat. “I just- I already miss him so much and he is still here.” He confessed, gaze shifting from Majorie to observe James through the kitchen window.

“You may not have control over when or where he fades away, but you do have control over the things you do together. The only advice I can give is to remember every little thing you can to help carry on his memory with those around you.” Majorie encouraged, following Regulus’ gaze to watch the older male fill up the basket with fresh apples.

“Memories are all that’s left of every single one of us in the end.” She professed with a look of nostalgia on her face.

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

Apparating in front of Gringotts with a strong glamour on, Regulus straightened his shoulders and made his way into the bank. He had checked over his glamour with James several times before he had set off for the bank. The glamour made him appear taller with broader shoulders. His black curls had changed into a straighter blonde cut that did not have a single hair out of place. James had tried to convince him to wear a more windswept look but quickly gave up as he noticed the look of pure disgust Regulus sent his way. James Potter may have looked good with windswept hair but that did not mean for one second that Regulus would try the look.

His silvery-green eyes had made way for a bright blue pair, his nose more hooked and his face fuller in shape. Any signs of the signature Black genetics had been wiped away and although he kept his pale complexion, a natural flush to his cheeks accompanied a couple of beauty marks on his cheek and chin.

He had reluctantly pulled out one of Orion’s old robes to make him look more distinguished, though a part of him sorely wished to burn them the moment he got back to Grimmauld Place. Even with a completely different face that looked nothing like his father’s, the suit made him look far too much like Orion for Regulus’ taste.

Striding into the bank, Regulus kept his gaze firmly glued on the desk at the other end of the room, he steps reverberating on the perfectly polished marble floor which caught the attention of some of the Goblin vendors along the counters. Luckily, none of them did more than just glance, not noticing just who was entering the bank.

He steps halted the moment he stood in front of the main desk, softly clearing his throat to catch the attention of the Goblin silently working there. After a moment, the goblin raised his head and eyed Regulus for a moment before nodding lightly. “Just one moment, sir.” The goblin excused himself before Regulus could even open his mouth, disappearing across the hall to one of the private rooms.

It took a couple of minutes, but the goblin eventually reappeared from the private room and beckoned Regulus over with a polite nod. Regulus nodded in response and walked across to the goblin before following him into the private room where Graagkord stood, eagerly awaiting Regulus’ arrival.

The silence in the room continued as the goblin that had led Regulus to the room bowed his head politely to both Regulus and Graagkord before making his leave and shutting the door behind him. With one swift flick of his wand, Regulus allowed his glamour to fall as faced Graagkord with a light smile on his face. “Good day, Graagkord. May your blade be ever sharp and your vaults filled with gold.” Regulus greeted with a hint of humour in his eyes.

“Good day, Heir Black. May your enemies tremble at your feet and your gold continue to flow.” Graagkord replied with a grin on his face, a moment of familiarity flooding between them as amusement grew on both of their faces. “It is a relief to know that you haven’t lost your edge when it comes to a proper greeting.” The goblin complimented.

Regulus shrugged lightly in response and the corners of his lips twitched upwards in amusement, “I can do some more rather… intense ones if you would prefer.” He offered, making Graagkord’s grin only grow. “Perhaps when you leave here today.” The goblin replied before softly clearing his throat.

Regulus and Graagkord had their own way of greeting each other which stemmed from when Sirius managed to convince him that it would be disrespectful to a goblin if they weren’t greeted with some kind of greeting referring to wealth or power. Regulus, being ten and not knowing any better, had eagerly greeted the goblin with a greeting he had spent a whole evening working on. It would be an understatement to say that Graagkord was shocked and amused when a ten-year-old Regulus greeted him with a “may your gold always run freely”.

Orion and Walburga were not amused by the whole debacle, but Graagkord had benevolently played along with his own greeting. From that moment on, the two had always used such greetings whenever they met. Sirius thought that it was hilarious.

“Now, what can I do for you today, Heir Black?” The goblin questioned as he walked around his desk to peer over all the papers he had retaining to the Black Family vaults.

“I was wondering if I could have access to one of the family vaults? I know that technically Sirius would be the heir and rightful Lord Black since I have been presumed dead for the past four years. But I know that the role of heir is… tentative to say the least after the events of the last four years.” Regulus explained, making his way over to a seat when Graagkord motioned to it as he listened to the request.

“You would be correct that Sirius Black is the rightful Lord Black since upon the time of your parents’ death, you were still heir but presumed dead and you made Sirius your heir should anything happen to you. However, since he has been… incarcerated and you are in fact still alive, your parents’ wishes still stand and you are the rightful heir and Lord Black.” The goblin explained as he flicked through a few of the pages, nodding slowly to himself. “As such, you are permitted to access all Black Family Vaults that fall under the ownership of the Black Family.” He confirmed.

Regulus let out a silent relieved breath as he listened to the goblin. It would be a relief to not have to try and break into a bank that claims to be impossible to steal from. “Does the personal vault of Bellatrix Lestrange fall under the ownership of the Black Family?” He inquired, watching as Graagkord began to search through his paperwork with his brows furrowed in concentration.

“Indeed, Madam Lestrange’s personal vault is owned by the Black Family. Although she did make some alterations to the security on who could access her vault some time in 1981.” Graagkord explained as he continued searching through the paperwork, seemingly searching for more information on the alterations. “Ah, yes. Here are the changes stating that certain members of the family are to not be given access under any circumstances. This includes one Andromeda Tonks and one Sirius Orion Black.” The goblin repeated from the paperwork, finally looking back towards Regulus.

“Three guesses as to why.” Regulus muttered with a light cringe. It would seem that there was something in Bellatrix’s vault that she didn’t want any of the ‘light’ members of the family getting their hands on. That only spurred on Regulus’ silent hope that she really had been foolish enough to hide a horcrux in her personal vault and simple assumed that no other members of the family were capable of betraying her.

“Indeed.” Graagkord responded with a knowing look in his eyes before clearing his throat once more. “However, there is nothing within the new stipulations that would indicate that you cannot have access to the vault. In fact, the Lestrange vaults are also under the care of the Black Family until the date that a member of the Lestrange Family is free from their current predicament.”

That little fact made Regulus’ eyebrow quirk up in curiosity. He knew that there weren’t any members of the Lestrange family walking around freely but had they really given access to the Blacks to ensure the safekeeping of their vaults? It was very strange but hopefully, if there wasn’t a horcrux in Bella’s vault, he might have some luck in the Lestrange vaults.

“That is very interesting to know, Graagkord.” Regulus admitted with a light smile, “I may need access to the Lestrange vaults as well but, for now, could I please see Bellatrix’s personal vault?” He requested.

“Of course, Heir Black. However, we must first complete the paperwork to confirm your position as Lord Black. The information that you are Lord Black can be kept confidential to everyone but the people you stipulate if that would be preferable due to your current situation.” Graagkord suggested as he conjured up some extra paperwork and the Black Family insignia ring.

“That would indeed be preferable.” Regulus confirmed as he stood up from his chair and approached the desk to examine the newly conjured paperwork. “If it’s possible, could you tell me whether Sirius had named an heir or not?” He questioned, more out of curiosity than anything else.

The goblin nodded in response, taking another quick perusal through the stack of paperwork and scanned through the words, running his pointed fingernail along the words and stopping on a certain line. “Whilst Sirius Orion Black had the title of Lord Black, he did name an heir. Should anything happen to him, one Harry James Potter was supposed to inherit his titles and fortune.” Graagkord explained.

A breathy laughed escaped Regulus’ lips as he nodded knowingly, a light hum following his laugh. “Now, that information does not surprise me. I assume an heir vault was opened for Harry James Potter?” He questioned, smiling slightly wider at the nod he gained in return. “Good. The regular payments being deposited in that vault may continue for the foreseeable future.” He stated as he started reading the Lordship paperwork once again.

Graagkord only nodded in confirmation and allowed Regulus a few minutes to read through the paperwork. “There are a few things that we need to discuss before we can finish the paperwork and travel to Madam Lestrange’s vault, but the most important topic is for you to name an heir.” The goblin explained.

“Very well.” Regulus replied, a knowing smile remaining on his face as his eyes flicked from the paperwork back to Graagkord. “Should anything happen to me, I name both Sirius Orion Black and Harry James Potter as my heirs. Should Sirius still be incarcerated, then Harry will have control of everything, and I trust you to keep a keen eye on all the family vaults until Harry comes of age. Would that suffice?”  

“It would.” Graagkord confirmed, a look of pride flashing through his eyes as he heard Regulus state that he trusted the goblin with the security of the Black Family fortune. “Now, there are just a couple more things. I would suggest that we sit down, and I’ll order us some tea.”

Regulus only nodded in agreement and summoned the chair closer to the desk as he sat back down. “Tea would be greatly appreciated.”

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

Almost an hour later, Regulus stood in front of Bellatrix Lestrange’s personal vault with a feeling of trepidation settling in his stomach. He was running out of options for places to search for horcruxes and with no possible lead on the sixth, he really needed this risk to pay off.

“If you could please present your ring to this lock.” Graagkord requested, motioning towards a small dent located just above the spot for the vault key. Regulus nodded and pressed the newly claimed Black Family ring against the lock with his index finger. “Now, as I explained upstairs, if Madam Lestrange were to question whether someone had accessed her vault, she will be informed that the Heir accessed but as per your request, she will not know that you are that Heir.” The goblin assured as the vault door started clicking before groaning open.

“And you need me to declare anything I add or remove from the vault?” Regulus clarified as his gaze narrowed towards the contents of the vault. “I shall. But I will, of course, give you your privacy as you look around the vault. Simply tap three times on the vault door when you are ready to leave.” Graagkord replied with a knowing glint in his eyes as Regulus looked across to the goblin and nodded.

“Luckily, I shan’t be needing to add or remove anything. This visit is simply just to check that some family antiques are in their rightful place.” Regulus stated, his face stony as he spoke even if he knew that Graagkord had his own inclinations on what Regulus’ business was in his cousin’s vault.

Taking a step into the vault, Regulus took a deep breath and allowed his magic to silently search around the vault for a familiar darkness. He only paused and turned back to the goblin when he spoke up once more, “the darker artifacts can be located towards the far end of the vault, including some of the artifacts that were transferred from the Lestrange vault.” Graagkord sent one more polite nod Regulus’ way before closing the vault door and leaving Regulus inside.

Perhaps Graagkord did know precisely what Regulus was looking for and it only helped him grow in confidence. There was a horcrux in this vault and Regulus was willing to bet that it was the ‘artifact’ moved from the Lestrange vault. Especially since the Lestrange Vault had no stipulations to ban certain Black Family members from being able to access it. It would seem that Bellatrix was more cunning than Regulus gave her credit for but even as children, he was still more cunning than her.

Walking further into the vault, Regulus formed a small but powerful ball of light to follow him as he ventured through the vault, which was far larger than Regulus thought it would be. There were mounds of galleons and jewels splayed all over the place, some on tables and others just in piles on floor. There were even a couple of tapestries left abandoned against the dark stone walls. It was an impressive haul, especially when Regulus noticed the tall shelves filled with books that Regulus was willing to bet were filled with a lot of dark magic.

The further he ventured into the vault, the more he worried that he might have been wrong. He couldn’t feel any traces of the dark magic that usually seeped off he horcruxes. It was only when a flash of gold hidden among the bookshelves caught Regulus’ eye that he realised that he was correct.

Although he couldn’t feel any of the familiar dark magic, there was no denying that the golden goblet on the shelf was Helga Hufflepuff’s cup. There may not have been a lot of information about the cup but there were some spectacular drawings of it that Regulus had spent hours gazing at. He would know the cup anywhere. The cup that Tom Riddle had gotten when he got the locket.

It had to be a horcrux.

Taking out James’ wand, Regulus carefully levitated the cup down from the shelf and a light smirk quirked at the corner of his lips as he realised why the usual dark magic was apparently absent. Bellatrix had found a way to enchant the cup and make it seem utterly mundane. If anyone where to stumble across it, it would give off the impression that it was a normal, boring, old cup. Nothing of any interest.

Keeping the cup levitated, Regulus pulled open his jacket and pulled out a simple golden coin whilst silently thanking James Potter, who had insisted on helping Regulus practice his transfiguration, so he was properly prepared for replicating any horcrux he found.

Silently and wandlessly levitating the coin so it hovered next to the cup, Regulus’ eyes narrowed in concentration as he transfigured the coin to become an exact replica of the cup. He took a couple of minutes to make small adjustments and once he was satisfied, he allowed the real cup to fall in his jacket pocket, which he had charmed with an undetectable extension charm earlier that day.

Copying the spell he had performed of the fake diary; Regulus enchanted the fake cup to seep with dark magic. Not the same dark magic as the horcrux but enough for there to be little difference between the two and levitated the fake cup back into the bookshelf. After performing a ward over the fake cup to mimic what Bellatrix had done with the real one, Regulus strode back over to the vault door and knocked three times as he put James’ wand away.

A second later, the vault door flung open once more and Graagkord smiled politely towards Regulus. “I trust that everything it to your satisfaction, Lord Black?” He inquired. Regulus nodded simply in return with a satisfied smirk still quirking at his lips, elation spreading through his chest. If Tom Riddle really had made six horcruxes, there was only one more left to find.

“Are there any changes you need to declare before I check over the vault?” The Goblin questioned as he glanced into the vault. “No. I haven’t removed or added anything.” Regulus replied, holding his breath in anticipation as the goblin nodded and muttered a spell in Gobbledegook which seemed to scan around the vault.

In total, the scan took about thirty seconds before Graagkord turned back to him and nodded in satisfaction. “Very good. Is there anything else I can do to help you today, Lord Black?”

Letting out a soft breath, Regulus remained composed as the vault door shut and shook his head. “No thank you, Graagkord. That is all the business I needed to take care of for today.” He confirmed. “Very good. If you’ll follow me, I shall take you back up to the private room so you can prepare everything to leave the bank today.” The goblin replied, sending a pointed look towards Regulus’ appearance as he began walking back towards the magical cart they had boarded in the private room.

The journey back to the room took less time than the journey down and the two arrived back after just thirty minutes, the first journey having taken forty. Once back in the room, Regulus took a moment to dust off his jacket and straighten it. He then smiled politely towards Graagkord, “thank you for all of your help today, Graagkord.” He stated, sincerity flowing from his tone.

“Of course, Lord Black. Thank you for your visit.” The goblin replied as he reached for the pile of paperwork now containing Regulus’ claim to the lordship.

“I think for future visits; you should just call me Regulus. You have known me long enough and since I am trusting you to keep maintaining the family vaults as excellently as you have thus far, it only seems fair that we are equals.” Regulus stated with a slightly wider smile flashing on his face as he noticed the goblin’s shock, which only lasted a few seconds before he composed himself and nodded. “Very well, thank you for your visit, Regulus.” The goblin replied, observing as Regulus glamoured himself once more and a devious smirk flashed on his face the moment Regulus was ready to leave. “I do believe you promised me a more intense goodbye.” Graagkord stated and bowed his head politely, “May your enemies bleed and suffer in silence alone.”

Regulus smirked as he listened to the goblin, putting James’ wand away and bowed his head in response, “May your enemies' gold be melted and poured down their throats.” He replied simply, bidding the goblin farewell with amusement. Graagkord let out an amused chuckle at Regulus’ words and watched as the male left the room. “More intense indeed.” The Goblin muttered, silently very happy with the knowledge that his, arguably, favourite Black was not as dead as the world believed.

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

Landing back in the kitchen of Grimmauld Place, Regulus let out a sigh of exhaustion. Even though he had only been at Gringotts for a couple of hours, it had still been longer than he had anticipated, and he had been far more apprehensive than he had let on.

Quickly removing all the glamours, Regulus put James’ wand down on the table just in time for the man himself to round the corner into the kitchen and bound across the room, wrapping Regulus in a tight, relieved hug. “I was getting ready to try to wandlessly apparate and storm Gringotts.” The male stated in a serious tone as he held Regulus as close as possibly could.

Regulus instantly relaxed into the familiar warmth and wrapped his arms just as tightly around James. “I’m sorry it took so long. Graagkord needed me to fill out all the paperwork to officially become Lord Black.” He explained in a soft voice, allowing his eyes to close as he leaned against James.

“I had all sorts of horrible visions running through my head,” James admitted as worry seemed to tickle out of his tense shoulders. “Kreacher threw me out of the kitchen because I kept badgering him.” He whispered with a quiet chuckle. “He was far more patient with me than he had to be.”

Regulus laughed quietly and pulled back just enough to rest his hand on James’ cheek and press a soft but fleeting kiss to his cheek. “I am sorry for making you worry, Jamie.” He apologised and gently rested their foreheads together. “But I am okay. Better than okay really.” Regulus spoke as a grin flashed on his face as he motioned towards his jacket pocket.

James’ eyes lit up knowingly and without a moment’s hesitation, he stated to lead Regulus down towards the dungeon, causing Regulus to quickly reach and grab the wand from the table. “She really hid it in her vault? Brilliant!” He declared. “What is it?” He questioned with a bright smile settling itself on his lips.

“Helga Hufflepuff’s cup.” Regulus stated as he levitated the cup from his pocket and placed it in the centre of the dungeon.

“Ah… so another tragedy will be committed today?” James replied, resting a hand on Regulus’ shoulder. The younger nodded slowly in response and stared at the cup for a couple of seconds. “The only positive is that there’s only one left. We have absolutely no clues or hunches but there’s only one more.” He spoke, sadness flashing in his eyes for a moment. “But even then… that’s not all that positive.” He mumbled with a light frown.

One more horcrux to find before he would lose the only part of James that he had left.

“It’s the only way to stop him, love.” James whispered in response, knowing that wouldn’t help to comfort the other but it was all he could say.

“I know.” Regulus replied, sending a reassuringly smile James’ way before pointing the wand towards the cup.

“Fiendfyre.”

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

There was something wrong with James.

Ever since they had disposed of their fifth horcrux, James had started acting strange. If they were in a room together, they still behaved the same way, but James seemed to be getting far more tired that he used to. Several times a day, he would disappear for short naps and kept insisting that he was fine, but Regulus didn’t believe him.

Since finding the cup in July, two months had passed and neither of them had any sort of idea what the sixth horcrux could be. Regulus still ruled out the Sword of Gryffindor as a horcrux but just to make sure, he had contacted Graagkord to simply enquire if dark magic could affect goblin-made artifacts. In short, Graagkord confirmed that it was unlikely that dark magic could be used on goblin-made artifacts, especially since many goblins took pride in their work and didn’t wish for their hard work to be blighted by any wixen.

It was good to know that they didn’t have to worry about finding and destroying yet another priceless artifact, but it certainly did not help to point to any new possibilities. A part of Regulus was starting to wonder whether there were really six horcruxes. Perhaps Riddle hadn’t had chance to make a sixth one before he had been killed at Godric’s Hollow.

So, James and Regulus had agreed to keep searching for any signs of one final horcrux but also focused back on trying to discover where Tom Riddle could be hiding out. Yet another seemingly dead end but they were nothing if not conscientious, both spending hours in the library and that was where Regulus had noticed James’ lack of energy.

Each time he tried to convince James to open up, he was shrugged off with a reassuring smile and some excuse about not getting enough sleep at night, but Regulus had known that was a lie. They had been sleeping in the same bed ever since James explained the small predicament of him being dead, so Regulus knew just how much James was sleeping. And it only made him worry more.

James had drifted to sleep in the library on an inconspicuous Monday which just so happened to be Halloween, a date that Regulus now understood was difficult for James. Even though it was only mid-afternoon, Regulus let out a soft sigh and closed his book in favour of waking James and telling him to go to bed,

Standing up from his spot, Regulus made his way the short distance to where James was sleeping in his usual armchair. Gently kneeling down, Regulus rested his hand on James’ and started to shake him gently. “James…” He spoke softly, trying to rouse the male from his sleep as kindly as he could. It took a few seconds before James started to stir and his eyes blearily opened, hazel eyes searching around in confusion until they properly landed on Regulus.

“Did I fall asleep again?” He mumbled softly, shifting in the chair to force himself to sit up. Regulus nodded slowly and reached his free hand up to cup James’ cheek for a moment before veering towards his forehead to make doubly sure that the male wasn’t ill. “Maybe you should go rest for a bit?” He suggested, hand adjusting to rest back against James’ cheek.

Guilt flashed in the older male’s eyes for a moment before he shook his head. “I’m fine, lets just get back to researching.” He replied, reaching to grab his book which had fallen onto the floor when he had drifted off. Regulus reached the book first and swiftly moved it away and onto the nearby table. “Jamie, you’re clearly exhausted and you need to sleep. It’s been two months, and we haven’t found anything, I doubt a few hours is going to make much of a difference.” He expressed, allowing himself a moment to caress the other’s cheek.  “Go sleep.” He ordered. “I can come and keep you company if you want but you need to sleep,” he added.

A soft breath of defeat escaped James’ lips, and the male slowly nodded in agreement. “Fine… I’ll go rest for a bit. But you stay here. We both know you’ll get distracted by my handsome face if you sit with me.” James teased, flashing a bright grin on his face as he moved to stand up.

Regulus chuckled softly and shook his head. “Such an arrogant Gryffindor…” He mumbled with a scrunch of his nose in fake disgust. “I’ll come wake you for dinner.” He vowed as he stood up, reaching his hands out to help James stand and once the older male was stood, he took a slow stroll towards the door with a nod. “Alright, love. I’ll see you later.”

Regulus watched with the same worry growing in his eyes, the worry that had been hiding behind his eyes for the past two months. He could only hope that James would tell him what was bothering him when he was ready.

So, to preoccupy himself, Regulus went back to his reading but sat himself in James’ usual armchair instead of his own. At first, time was seemingly dragging as he silently fretted to himself but did eventually lose himself in his book as his search for Tom Riddle continued.

Before he knew it, Kreacher had appeared at his side with a bow of his head. “Dinner is ready, Master Regulus.” He informed the male before disappearing with a soft pop.

Regulus was quick to put his book down and made his way to his bedroom, knowing James would be in there instead of the room he had occupied when he first moved in. Peering into the room, a fond smile grew on his face before he could even contemplate stopping it. James always looked so peaceful when he slept.

It was only when he got a closer look at James that he realised what was wrong. James was seemingly transparent. Regulus’ heart dropped as he approached the bed, taking a seat on the edge as he hesitantly reached his hand out, his breath shaking as his hand went straight through James’.

“Not yet…” He whispered, a quiet despair settling in his heart as he stared at the man he loved. The man that was fading away. And Regulus didn’t know whether to cry, scream or destroy the whole world. His sunshine was fading and there was nothing he could do to stop it.

Apparently noticing the eyes watching him, James’ eyes slowly opened and he reached for his glasses, quickly sliding them on and took in Regulus’ silently heartbroken expression. Panic ran through him for a moment until he realised that Regulus’ hand was where James’ was up until he reached for his glasses.

“You’re fading, aren’t you?” Regulus whispered hesitantly, his voice smaller and more sorrowful that James had ever heard it. He could feel his heart cracking just at the sound as he slowly nodded.

“It’s why I’ve been more tired recently…” James admitted quietly, chewing on his bottom lip as his, now solid, hand reached out to hold onto Regulus’. “It’s taken more of my energy to dispel the… ghostness?” He tried to explain, unsure of how to properly describe it.

James watched in silence as Regulus subconsciously clung onto his hand whilst simultaneously attempting to stop the tears that wanted to break through. It was too much to bear, all of it- far too much to bear.

“Love… there’s somewhere I want to show you.” James admitted softly as he carefully squeezed the younger’s hand.

“Right now…?” Regulus replied, still having an inward battle to stop himself from falling apart for the umpteenth time. He had lost count of just how many times he had grieved James even when the male was right next to him.

“I think that would be best.” James replied as he sat up, gently reaching for his wand which was in Regulus’ holster. “I want to make sure that you know where it is before I… yeah.” He explained vaguely just as Kreacher appeared in the room, seemingly curious as to what was taking the two so long to arrive in the kitchen.

A look was exchanged between Kreacher and James with a brief moment of sadness washing across the house-elf before he nodded and cleared his throat. “Kreacher will keep dinner warm for when Young Master returns.” He declared, looking at James once more before disapparating.

James stood the two of them up with his hand still firmly grasping Regulus’. “You ready, love?” He questioned softly.

“No…” Regulus whispered in response and rested his forehead against James’ shoulder, nodding lightly. “Let’s go.” He added in his hushed whisper and a moment later, the two landed on a cobbled street.

James pressed a soft kiss to Regulus’ head and squeezed his hand as he led them down an unfamiliar street. Unfamiliar for Regulus anyway. A part of Regulus had wondered where they were and what precisely they were doing there but all his questions disappeared the moment they stepped into the graveyard.

A lump grew in his throat as the two moved silently through the graveyard until James stopped them in front of his own grave, Lily’s sat right next to his.

“I have a feeling that I might not be around much longer, Reg. So, I wanted to make sure that you knew where we were just in case you ever need us. Because we are always with you, even if it doesn’t feel like it.” James murmured, opting to wrap his arm around Regulus as the younger’s body trembled.

“And I need you to know just how much we love you- just how much I love you. There is nothing in this world that will change the love I have for you.” James admitted, keeping Regulus close as he stared at the headstones. “I’m sorry that it had to end like this… that I didn’t find you earlier, when I was still alive. And I’m sorry that you have been left with the burden of the war. A burden that should have never been placed on your shoulders.”

“You can’t save everyone in a war…” Regulus whispered the same word he had told Majorie, raising his head to look at James with his teary eyes. “But I would destroy the entire world to get you back… to get her back.”

“I know you would, love.” James replied, watching as Regulus’ eyes shifted from him towards the headstones, a couple of tears sneaking down his cheeks as he leaned against James’ side.

The two stood in silence. A silence that lasted approximately thirty seconds before a bright light shone in front of them for a moment and a figure formed in front of them. A figure with fiery red hair and bright green eyes. A figure Regulus would know anywhere.

“Lily?” He whispered.

“Hello Regulus.” Lily replied with a soft smile on her face, hand reaching out to brush against Regulus’ cheek as her face as an urgency grew on her face. “I am sorry for asking this, but I need your help.”

“With what?” Regulus questioned, alarm growing in his eyes as he glanced between James, who looked confused, and Lily.

“It’s Harry…”

Chapter Text

 “What about Harry?” James questioned, alarm growing in both his eyes and voice as he looked between Lily and Regulus. “Is he okay?” He added before a moment of worry flashed through his eyes, “is Moony okay?” James knew that taking Harry in and raising him wouldn’t be an easy job for his old friend but he also knew that if anyone was capable enough, Remus Lupin was capable enough.  

“That’s the thing.” Lily admitted, her gaze lingering on Regulus for a couple of seconds before shifting across to James. “Harry isn’t with Remus.” She told the male, sadness growing in her eyes along with something more intense – angrier. “He’s with Petunia.” She spat, a mixture of anger and grief in her tone. Anger that her son had been left with a sister who hated magic and grief for the sister Petunia had once been before jealousy destroyed their relationship.

“Why on earth would Harry be put with her? She wasn’t even mentioned in our will, so how did she even become an option?” James questioned, the same intensity simmering behind his own eyes as Lily shared a look with him and understanding washed across his face. “Dumbledore…” He muttered with a clenched jaw.

Lily simply nodded in response; her own anger seemingly palpable in the increasingly intense atmosphere growing between the three. “I don’t know why Dumbledore wanted to put our little fawn with Petunia, but I don’t exactly believe that it was to give him a happy childhood.” Lily professed with a growing anger. “I think- when I put myself between our little fawn and Voldemort, I activated an ancient blood magic that offers him protection. And I think Albus knows this and activated the protection when he left Harry with her. But they’re weak James- they’re so weak. And the worst part is that I don’t even know where they’re living, without tracking runes I can’t find him.” She explained, voice shaking as despair reared its cruel head in her tone.

Regulus reached out for her before he could even think about second guessing himself, his hand resting on her shoulder as he stared at her earnestly. “Tell me what you need me to do.” He demanded, a soft smile flashing on his lips as Lily exhaled in pure relief at his words.

“I need you to make a blood pact with me. A simple one that promises you will take care of Harry in any way you can. But it needs to be strong… we need to share blood that will be held in a phial, but we would need to push it one step further and allow some of our blood to run through each other.” Lily explained, chewing nervously on her bottom lip as she carefully searched Regulus’ face for any reaction. “It would ensure stronger protection for Harry and would also give you the right to take care of him. By sharing some of my blood, even Albus wouldn’t be able to stop you from keeping Harry safe.” She continued, glancing down at her own hand for a moment.

“Wouldn’t the pact break when– when you fade away?” Regulus questioned, his voice breaking at the reminder that both Lily and James were gone. This moment - the two of them being in this moment wasn’t real. Not really. They would fade away and Regulus would be left alone. He knew that was why James wanted to bring him here. James knew he wouldn’t be going back to Grimmauld Place.

“I believed so myself, but I was speaking so someone… in the beyond… and since we would be making the pact when I am already stuck in-between life and death, the pact should still stand even after I fade.” Lily replied, her own hand reaching for Regulus’ and giving it a squeeze in a mixture of reassurance and sadness.

Regulus nodded slowly, quickly analysing the idea in his head as his eyebrows set in both confidence and determination. “Let’s do it.” He decided, no hint of hesitation in his voice. If Lily Evans needed him to make a pact to keep her son safe, Regulus would do it. If Lily Evans needed him to destroy the whole world to keep her son safe, Regulus would do it so sharing a little bit of blood was nothing. It would be his honour.

A bright smile quickly made its way to Lily’s face, the tension that had gathered in her shoulders seeping away in an instant. “Thank you,” she whispered gratefully. Regulus shook his head and took a step closer to her, resting their foreheads together for a couple of seconds. “It’s the least I can do for you, ma fleur éclatante.” He whispered.

Lily let out a breathy laugh and pressed a soft kiss to Regulus’ cheek. “It’s been a long time since I’ve heard that nickname. I missed it.” She admitted as she gently took Regulus’ hand and held their palms out side by side.

Regulus looked across at James and gently reached for his wand, a soft smile on his face as he summoned an old family ritual knife. One of the ones that wouldn’t inevitably give him several infections. “From what I can remember from old family rituals, when you are ready for the bond between our blood to be made, you need to say ‘sanguis tuus sanguis meus est’. It’s believed to make the bond stronger.” Regulus explained. He himself never particularly believed in all the ancient pureblood rituals but if there was even a chance that it would help, he would take it.

Lily nodded slowly, whispering the phrase softly to herself as she reached for the knife, making a swift cut across her palm and offering Regulus the knife back. The male nodded in return and took the knife, following Lily’s swift motions and allowing the knife to cut his palm. Allowing the knife to fall on the floor beside them, Regulus raised his hand vertically and allowed his fingers to part as Lily’s hand moved to mirror his. A moment later, their palms pressed against one another and their fingers interlaced.

“To keep Harry safe.” Lily whispered softly, wincing slightly as their cuts pressed flush against each other, causing a harsh stinging. Regulus nodded firmly as he gently squeezed Lily’s hand. “To keep Harry safe,” he vowed and allowed his eyes to close for a moment as their cuts began to burn, almost as though they were fusing together.

Regulus’ eyes only opened once more when the burning ceased slightly, and he felt as rush of foreign magic run through his body. Lily must have felt the same since her body jolted slightly and she squeezed Regulus’ hand. “Sanguis tuus sanguis meus est.” She spoke clearly, gaze solely on their hands as another rush of foreign magic ran through the two of them.

“Sanguis meus, sanguis tuus, sanguis noster.” Regulus replied with a light nod of reassurance, taking a sharp breath as one final rush of foreign magic made its was through the two of them.

Exchanging a look between the two of them, in sync both Regulus and Lily allowed their hands to part and hover beside each other. It took a moment for anything meaningful to happen, a prominent stinging remaining across both cuts until two drops of blood raised into the air, one from each hand. The two drops of blood seemingly danced around one another as they raised higher and higher until they joined together in one larger drop. As soon as one drop was formed from two, a beautiful silver phial conjured itself around the singular drop and a silver chain looped itself through the phial that hovered between them.

“It’s beautiful.” Lily whispered softly, bright verdant eyes focused on the phial. “It is.” Regulus replied, wordlessly healing the cut on both of their hands and carefully reached for the phial, the silver cool to the touch as he held it.

“Thank you, Regulus. You don’t know how much this means to me.” Lily uttered as tears built up in her eyes, her gaze flickering from the phial to focus back on Regulus. “I am sorry for adding another burden to you. I know that you’ve already been doing more than enough to help the world.”

In an instant, Regulus raised his hand to stop her from talking and shook his head. “Never apologise. Asking me to take care of your son isn’t a burden, Lily. It is an honour.” He stated, his own eyes growing glossy as he glanced between Lily and James for a couple of seconds. “I’m the one who is sorry, for everything. If there was something I could do to stop him – to reverse your deaths, please know that I would do it. Because you both deserved so much better – Harry deserves so much better.” He admitted, his voice choking up slightly as grief hit his heart with an insufferable force.

Warm arms wrapped around him within a second and Lily squeezed him tightly in the hug, her fiery red hair tickling Regulus’ nose as he settled himself against her shoulder, letting out a shuddering breath. “How am I supposed to do this without you?” He whispered out the question before he could stop himself, apprehension and doubt creeping into his voice. How was he supposed to take care of Harry without James and Lily.

“You’re not as alone as you think, Reggie.” Lily informed the male, pulling back form the hug just enough to cup his cheeks and flash him one of her confident smiles. “You can only do your best and I have absolutely no doubt that Harry – our little fawn – will be in the safest hands. I know that you will protect him and, most importantly, teach him how to protect himself. There are people that you can ask for help from.” She explained with a knowing glint in her eyes. “You just have to be brave enough to ask for it.”

Fully pulling away from the hug, Lily took a worried glance at her slightly faded hands and looked towards James with a sad smile. “We’re running out of time. I was only sent here to come and collect you.”

Regulus’ eyes snapped across to James, who simply nodded slowly at Lily’s words and smiled sympathetically towards Regulus. “Sorry, love. It would seem that you don’t need me anymore and my time has run out.” He admitted, instantly opening his arms as he noticed Regulus frantically shaking his head in denial.

“No – it can’t be yet… I’ll always need you.” Regulus argued, promptly grabbing a hold of James in a tight hug as his body trembled slightly. “I can’t lose you…not when I have you back again.” He whispered as a couple of tears escaped his eyes.

“I already told you; I will always be with you. The ones who we love never truly leave us, Reg.” James murmured, pressing their foreheads together and allowed one hand to cup Regulus’ head, fingers pressing through his dark curls. “Even when I’m not right beside you, I will always be with you.” He continued, motioning towards Regulus’ heart with a warm smile on his face. “I’ll be right there, you see. That’s where I’ll be waiting until we meet again.” He whispered, a couple of tears rolling down his own cheeks.

A quiet sob escaped Regulus’ lips as he tried to gently wipe away James’ tears and slowly shook his head, their foreheads still pressed against one another. “You can’t go.” He wept, a tidal wave of tears consistently rolling down his cheeks as a prominent, sharp pain ran through his chest. He wasn’t ready yet. How was he supposed to say goodbye to the sun… to his sun?

“I love you, Regulus Black.” James spoke, his voice cracking as he shifted to press a firm kiss to the younger’s forehead and his fingers gently played with his soft curls. “I love you so fucking much.”

The words only made Regulus sob harder, palms pressing against James’ chest to keep himself upright. “Please don’t leave,” he pleaded, even if he was fully aware that James had no choice in the matter. He was fading away and there was absolutely nothing that Regulus could do to stop it.

“Take care of yourself, love.” James continued, the bridge of his nose pressed gently against Regulus’ forehead. “You’re so brave… and I am so proud of you. You’re going to be alright, Regulus. I know you are.” He stated, taking a deep breath and pulled back slightly to take one final, proper look at Regulus. “You can do this. There’s only one horcrux left, love. Then there’s just him. You’re almost there, love.”

Trying to wipe away his tears with the back of his hand, Regulus’ glossy eyes stared back at James, and he chewed on his bottom lip, his cheeks and nose flushed from his crying. “I love you, Jamie.” He whispered, hesitating for just a moment before he surged forwards and pressed their lips together in a bruising kiss – a kiss that laid bare every one of Regulus’ emotions. He allowed James to feel them all the sadness, the grief, the devastation, the determination, the love. James was quick to reciprocate, allowing Regulus to feel all his emotions too: the guilt, the heartbreak, the belief, the love.

Regulus Black loved James Potter. James Potter loved Regulus Black.

Regulus was certain that he would never have this kind of love again. This kind of love was reserved solely for James Potter and Regulus found himself at peace with that fact. Even though their love only burned bright for a short time, it was the brightest time of his life – the most precious time of his life.

As they pulled away from one another, Regulus reached for James’ wand and held it out to the male with a soft smile even though his lip still trembled, and tears still rolled down his cheeks. “Your wand.” His whispered softly.

James smiled warmly and shook his head, pressing the wand back towards Regulus with a soft wink. “It’s not my wand anymore, it’s yours.” He stated, wiping away his remaining tears with a deep breath. “You could say that my wand is a lot like me. It chose you.” He admitted and took a step back, reaching his hand out for Lily, who held his hand gently.

Regulus watched the two for a moment, watching with his teary gaze as they started to fade. “I love you – both of you.” He blurted out, trying his best to ignore the stinging in his eyes.

“We love you too.” Both James and Lily replied at the same time, smiling brightly between each other before focusing solely on Regulus. “Take good care of our little fawn, Regulus.” Lily spoke softly, eyes filled to the brim with gratitude and love. “And remember that we are always with you, love.” James added, his hazel eyes not leaving Regulus’ silvery-green eyes until he had faded completely.

It was only when James and Lily had completely faded that Regulus allowed himself to fall apart once again, dropping onto his knees in an instant as a raw, devastated sob erupted from his throat. In his spot knelt in front of their graves, Regulus curled himself up in the smallest ball possible and shut his eyes tightly as tears continuously rolled down his cheeks and the heavy mixture of grief and pain spread steadily through his chest.

They were really gone. He had lost them both.

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The concept of time had seemingly eluded Regulus as he stayed knelt in front of the graves of James Potter and Lily Evans. He had no clue just how long he had been there, stuck in the same position on the ground. He wasn’t in as tight of a ball anymore and had, instead, allowed himself to rest back in his kneeling position. Tear stains had dried on his cheeks as he stared blankly at the headstones, his hands clenched into fists as his sadness and grief made way for anger – seething anger that was blaming three people in particular for this outcome.

Tom Riddle, Albus Dumbledore and Peter Pettigrew.

Three men that Regulus was desperate to destroy. Killing them wouldn’t be enough. He wanted to completely ruin them first. They would live to regret their own individual actions that caused the death of two people Regulus loved the most.

He was so lost in his own anger that Regulus hadn’t noticed the footsteps that indicated someone approaching him, the footsteps that halted for a moment before pushing closer with some hesitancy.

“Regulus…? Is that really you?”

Regulus had never moved quite as quickly as he did at the familiar voice, spinning on his feet and almost risking tumbling himself over, his eyes widening the moment they landed on the familiar sandy hair and exhausted amber eyes.

“Remus?” He whispered in disbelief.

Remus still looked exactly the same as he did when Regulus had last seen him five years earlier, just even more exhausted and he had lost weight. A pang of longing ran through Regulus’ chest as he observed his old friend. Remus had always been one of the few people Regulus had enjoyed spending time with – one of the few people he would call a true friend.

The man in question didn’t seem to know how to react to not only seeing Regulus, who had obviously been crying, but realising that he was actually alive. A small battle seemed to be being fought behind his eyes as Regulus forced himself to stand up, trying to wipe away the tear stains that he knew remained on his cheeks.

Whatever inward battle Remus was having ended rather quickly as he stared at Regulus with a mixture of shock and relief. Regulus could see the moment Remus stopped fighting with himself, opting to instead take long strides towards Regulus and dragging him into the tightest hug his could muster. “Regulus,” Remus whispered softly, the single word holding so many different emotions all at once.

Regulus’ whole body tensed up into the hug, his brain fighting hard to keep up with everything all at once. It did take him a few seconds but he gently wrapped his arms around Remus and let out a soft breath, closing his eyes as he happily leaned against the taller male.

The hug lasted just over a minute before Regulus carefully pulled himself back, taking a closer look at his old friend, the corners of his lips pulling downwards. “You look like shit, Rem.” He stated, a light smile quirking his lips as Remus let out a short laugh of both shock and disbelief. “You don’t look much better yourself, Reggie.” Remus replied with a light shake of his head, the smile that ghosted over his lips fading and making way for a slight frown. “Losing your entire pack does that…” He mumbled.

Guilt instantly stabbed incessantly in Regulus’ chest, causing him to take a sharp intake of breath and he carefully resting his still shaking hands on Remus’ shoulders. “We’re going to fix that.” Regulus vowed, certainty in his eyes as he at Remus with seriousness spreading across his face.

A light scoff escaped Remus’ lips as he looked away with a clenched jaw. “And how are we going to fix it?” He questioned, a certain bite in his tone indicating his growing anger.

“I’ve got a promise I made Lily to make good on.” Regulus stated, glancing down at the phial still clasped in his shaking hand. “And I think I am going to need your help.” He explained, grip tightening slightly around the phial and his determined eyes met Remus’ once more. “We’re going to find Harry and raise him the way Lily and James want.” He stated, an ache still prominent in his chest at the remembrance of the two people they had both lost. “And I am going to find a way to get Sirius out of Azkaban.” He added, taking a mental note as anger grew across Remus’ features. An anger that did not help to hide the heartbreak in his eyes at the reminder of the man he loved.

Taking a moment to search Remus’ eyes, Regulus’ eyebrows furrowed, and he shook his head in disbelief. “No… Remus please don’t say that you believe that he’s guilty.” He whispered, the urge to shake Remus’ shoulders as hard as he could growing the longer he watched the man wrestle with his conflicting emotions. “This is Sirius we’re talking about, Rem. Your Sirius. Do you seriously think that he would ever betray James – that he would ever betray you? I think the one time was more than enough for him. He would never hurt you like that again.” Regulus argued, observing Remus with a knowing gaze and gently squeezed the male’s shoulder. “Don’t you think that I would be the first to want to kill him if he really had betrayed them?”

Remus was doing his fair share of reading Regulus’ face, a part of him wanting to argue but he was ultimately too exhausted and knew that Regulus wasn’t lying to him. “I don’t even know what to think anymore…” He admitted in a soft whisper, a sadness growing in his eyes. “Things were so… rocky between us on the run up to Halloween. It was like we didn’t trust each other anymore – that he didn’t trust me anymore.” He explained, his voice breaking towards the end.

Regulus’ eyes softened as he watched Remus, who seemed just a few moments away from breaking down just like Regulus had. Deciding to follow his instincts – an action his heart demanded – Regulus pulled Remus into another hug, arms tightening around the male. “Then he’s the biggest idiot to ever live. If he thought for even a second that he couldn’t trust you, he’s an even bigger idiot than I thought he was. But he’s no murderer, Rem.” He whispered, taking a quick glance around from his viewpoint over Remus’ shoulder and swallowed the lump forming in his throat. He wanted to cry again – he could feel it. But there was a lot more he still needed to explain.

Softly clearing his throat, he pulled back from the hug just enough to face Remus once again, a light smile ghosting across his lips. “Look… there’s a lot I need to explain to you. I’ve had quite an… eventful… few years and I think it’s about time I start letting people in. But I would rather not share all my wartime secrets where anyone could overhear us, so could I interest you in a cup of tea?” He offered, chewing on his bottom lip as he continued glancing around the area, suddenly feeling far more exposed than he had since he arrived.

“It’s going to be a long night, isn’t it?” Remus questioned with a humourless laugh, shifting the two of them slightly so he could grab a hold of Regulus’ hand instead. “If you can swear to me that there will be a pot of tea, I’ll be more than interested.” He bargained, a flash of humour in his eyes. Regulus nodded and a quiet chuckle filled the void between them, carefully squeezing Remus’ hand and took one last look towards James and Lily’s grave, bowing his head slightly.

Crack.

Regulus and Remus were gone.

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It took far longer than Regulus had expected to explain everything to Remus, and he could tell that the werewolf was having a difficult time keeping up, especially when Regulus tried to explain that for the past two years, he had been hunting horcruxes with James. Even though James was actually dead. By the end of it, Regulus was having a hard time keeping up and he had lived through it all. Together, they had gotten through three pots of tea and each time Kreacher returned with another, he eyed the two with an undecipherable expression.

Regulus had also insisted that Remus joined him in eating the dinner that Kreacher had kept warm for his return. Neither of them was particularly hungry but, sensing that Regulus wasn’t used to eating alone anymore, Remus was happy to join him, even if they only ate a few mouthfuls at a time as Regulus explained everything.

“So… you’ve only really just started to mourn them?” Remus questioned hesitantly, watching Regulus with both sadness and sympathy. He was still trying to make sense of everything from Regulus being stuck in some sort of stasis for two years, to James being brought back by some unknown means to help Regulus find horcruxes. Oh, and there were actual horcruxes that made Voldemort immortal, meaning that the man that had torn apart Remus’ pack was going to return someday soon and would inevitably want to target Harry since he didn’t kill the boy the first time around. The same boy that Albus Dumbledore had insisted he place with Lily’s magic-hating sister for some kind of weak protection instead of placing him with someone who would love him unconditionally. Not to mention that instead of Sirius being the one to betray his pack, it was Peter, who then proceeded to frame Sirius and disappear. Remus had looked nothing short of murderous when Regulus had told him that, his jaw was still twitching with anger. It was… a lot.

“I only really lost them both tonight…” Regulus replied, blatantly trying to ignore the constant aching in his chest. An ache that he had a feeling would be with him for a long time to come.

Remus reached across the kitchen table to gently nudge Regulus’ hand with his own, a reassuring smile on his face. “Well, you don’t have to be alone through this.” He assured the male, finishing off his cup of tea. “Trust me… it’s difficult enough to grieve alone when I thought it was Sirius who had betrayed the pack. You know a lot more than I did, so I’ll be here for you if you need me. Honestly, I’m shocked that Albus and Pete- him are still alive. I know that Voldemort’s days are numbered once we find that last horcrux, but I am surprised that you didn’t kill those two once James told you everything.” He admitted, a mix of jest and seriousness creeping into his tone.

“Oh, trust me, Remus. Their days will come. By the end of all of this, I will bury every single one of them and I will be laughing as I do so.” Regulus vowed with his clenched jaw, a tight grip around his cup as he finished his own tea and let out a soft breath to try and calm himself.

“So, what now?” Remus asked softly, resting his head in his hand as he observed Regulus closely, watching as the male’s shoulders slowly relaxed as he steadied his breathing and his harsh grip on the cup steadily loosened.

“Now Remus, I have a promise to keep. There’s a little boy out there unknowingly waiting for us and we are going to find him. I am fairly certain that tracking runes won’t help to find the boy but, luckily for us, I know a man that may be able to help.” Regulus admitted, a light smirk quirking at the corner of his lips as Remus looked back at him in confusion.

“Don’t worry yourself about it, Rem… I’ll just have to break into Hogwarts again. Hopefully this time I might run into Dumbledore, and I’ll be able to murder the old coot.” He mumbled, resting his head in his hand and let out a soft breath.

Remus shook his head with a soft smile, now having some idea on what Regulus was planning. “You know- perhaps you should investigate becoming an Animagus too. It would sure make all your sneaking around easier.” He suggested with a chuckle, causing Regulus’ eyebrow to quirk upwards at the suggestion and he hummed softly in response. “Maybe I will. But for now, I’ll stick with breaking through wards without anyone noticing. Any excuse to practice my warding skills.” He shrugged, though the idea of trying to become an Animagus didn’t leave his mind. That would be something to look into the next time he was in the library. If James and Sirius could do it, so could Regulus. But first, he needed to see a potion’s master about a magic-hating muggle.

James had told him multiple times that he could go to Severus if he needed help and since the man knew Lily and her family before they had gone to Hogwarts, he was the only person most likely to know where Petunia may be living. Or, at the very least, be able to help figure out a way to try and locate her.

He also needed to enquire about a potion that he’d heard rumours about. Rumours that it could help those with lycanthropy.

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Regulus was silently grateful that Remus had stuck around after Halloween. Granted, Regulus had spent the next day cocooned in bed and refusing to leave. He was swapping between trying to sleep, sobbing to himself and trying to mentally burn the entire world. He hadn’t even realised that Remus was still around the house until he had unceremoniously climbed into Regulus’ bed and wrapped him in a comforting hug after his tenth breakdown of the day.

It had been so long since Regulus had been truly alone that he didn’t think he would be able to cope with the loneliness again. Luckily for him, Remus just seemed to know and even when he had occasionally left to get a change of clothes from his and Sirius’ shared apartment, he always came back as soon as he could, and Regulus hadn’t had to have one meal by himself.

Remus had even offered to break into Hogwarts with him, but Regulus had politely declined. It was a big risk sneaking back through the wards with Dumbledore in the castle, so Regulus didn’t want to risk the two of them being caught. At least if he was caught, Remus would be able to keep searching for Harry and rescue him from the life that Dumbledore had forced upon him.

So, Regulus had made his way through the secret passageway from Honeydukes cellar with a strange sense of déjà vu, a part of him wishing that James was with him this time around too.

The Hogwarts wards took far less time for him to sneak through and he emerged from behind the one-eyed witch in nearly no time at all. From there, he disillusioned himself and made his way down towards the dungeons, mentally thanking Slughorn for showing him the way to the private quarters that Snape would now be residing in.

It wasn’t a huge surprise to him that Severus had his own wards set up around his private quarters, but he was surprised about how easy they would be to bypass if he wanted to. Granted, the wards were strong, but Regulus had dealt with much more complex wards, these ones would have only taken him a minute at the most to crack.

But he wasn’t about to break in. Instead, he opted to stop disillusioning himself and deliberately pressed his hand against the door to alert Severus to an intruder, putting his wand back in his holster and squeezing it for a moment longer than necessary. It only took thirty seconds for Regulus to hear any particular movement from the other side of the door, accompanied by a rush of wind as the door swung open and a wand being pressed to his throat.

“Hello Severus.” Regulus greeted with a polite nod, blatantly ignoring the wand pressed against his neck and poised in a position that could render him dead with just one movement.

Onyx eyes narrowed as they bored into Regulus, a soft sigh following as the wand against his neck hesitantly lowered and Severus stood to one side, allowing Regulus inside. “Black. We really must stop meeting under these circumstances.” He drawled; any panic that was initially on his face masked with an air of indifference.

Regulus shrugged nonchalantly as he made his way into the room, taking a quick glance around the room. “I would have waited until you were back at Spinner’s end but sadly there is a matter of urgency.” Regulus explained as he took a seat in the closest armchair, Severus rolling his eyes at the lack of manners and took a seat opposite him. “No Potter with you this time?” He questioned, crossing his arms as he leaned back in his chair. Regulus’ face must have said enough because a flash of guilt ran through the black eyes and a slight frown pressed itself on Severus’ lips. “I am sorry.” He quickly added with a sincere nod.

Regulus scoffed lightly, even though there was no malice in the action. “He couldn’t stay around forever…” He mumbled, pushing away the burning feeling in his eyes in favour of grabbing the blood pact phial from his pocket and throwing it towards Snape, who caught it in one swift movement.

Severus took a moment to look over the phial, a frown remaining on his face as he took in the intricate details, an eyebrow raising slightly. “A blood troth?” He clarified.

Regulus nodded slowly in response and let out a steady sigh, rubbing his neck. “Two nights ago, I made a blood pact with Lily.” He started, making a silent note of the way Severus perked up slightly in interest. “She came to get James and made me swear to protect Harry.” He explained, observing how Severus’ mind began to work and figure out what precisely the pact had to do with him.

“I trust that you remember Lily’s sister, Petunia?” Regulus questioned, catching a glimpse of the way Severus’ eyes seemed to darken at the mention of the muggle. “Of course, I remember dear old Tuney. A vile a muggle as any, she had a particular hatred and jealousy of Lily’s magic.” Severus replied, busying himself with inspecting the phial once more.

“She is the person Dumbledore left Harry with.” Regulus stated, making the other male freeze and slowly look back towards Regulus, who continued eyeing Severus closely as he continued, “and I need to find her. Let’s just say that Lily isn’t particularly happy that her little fawn has been life in the ‘care’ of her sister. She wants me to take him.”

“What is Dumbledore thinking? The bumbling fool should know better than to leave the quote on quote ‘boy who lived’ in the care of a muggle who loathes the idea of magic. From what I can recall, the man she married is just as spiteful as she is. The liable to make the boy’s childhood miserable.” Severus stated, tutting in disapproval as he shook his head with his eyebrows furrowing.

“Maybe that’s the point.” Regulus countered, crossing one leg over the other as he rested back in the armchair. “You told James yourself that you thought Dumbledore was planning something. I would be happy to bet that it has something to do with that boy and what better way to get an innocent child to trust you then if you rescue him from a cruel family when he is of age to go to Hogwarts.” He added, his jaw clenching slightly at the thought.

He had no way of proving that Dumbledore had a plan that included using Harry, but he wasn’t going risk Harry being stuck with muggles who didn’t care for him. After losing his parents, that boy deserved all the love he could possibly get.

“Sadly, you may be correct. I doubt that Albus would be above using a child in his schemes.” Severus admitted, realisation growing in his eyes. “And it would also explain why Albus would never tell me where he was planning on placing the boy, just that he would be safe and happy. I would be fully expecting an arrogant, cocky child when he comes to Hogwarts but there is no way that will be the case if he’s with Petunia.”

“Albus wants you to hate him… to weaponize your hatred towards James and focus it on Harry.” Regulus muttered as the pieces of Albus’ possible plan slipped into place in his head. “Because he can’t predict you. And if he could create an environment where both you and Harry dislike each other, that would be one less adult that Harry can depend on.”

“Don’t you think that you might be jumping ahead there… the boy is only three, nowhere near school age.” Severus drawled, raising an eyebrow at Regulus.

“Dumbledore has spent years curating a war where people would see him as the beacon of the light, Severus. So, no, I don’t think I am jumping ahead. He is always thinking ahead, figuring out what will benefit him in the long run.” Regulus declared, his own mind jumping through several different possibilities of what Dumbledore could have planned with James and Lily’s little fawn.

Letting out a soft sigh of defeat, Severus nodded slowly as he realised that, ultimately, Regulus was right. Albus Dumbledore was a professional at playing the long game.

“If you’re trying to find Petunia, I don’t know how helpful I can be. It has been years since I last saw her. But they grew up close to my house in Cokeworth, so you should start with searching through the public directories in that area and then broaden your search along the East Midlands. Obviously, she was Petunia Evans but since she’s now married, I suspect her surname will be different.” Severus explained, resting his hand against his chin in thought. “Your best bet will be either the library or the council office and just explain that you’re trying to find a distant relative or something.”

Regulus nodded slowly whilst silently praying that Remus might have a better idea of where specifically to go if he did need to research at a ‘council office’. A muggle library would be fine, he had to go to a couple when he was initially researching the Riddle family.

“Thank you, Severus. I only hope that I will be able to find her.” He admitted with a soft sigh, rubbing his face for a moment before abruptly sitting up in remembrance of the other issue he wished to discuss with the Potion’s Master. “How much do you know about the potion that is rumoured to help with those who suffer from lycanthropy?” He inquired, watching in amusement as Severus let out an exasperated sigh whilst rubbing the bridge of his nose.

“The Wolfsbane Potion has been Ministry Approved only in the last couple of years and is available in many advanced potions books.” He stated, summoning one of his potion books from a shelf. “It is rather complicated though.” He warned.

Regulus snorted in response, rolling his eyes slightly and sat up properly in the armchair. “You weren’t the only potions prodigy that Slughorn had, you know.” He stated, a smug smirk flickering at the corner of his lips. “Slughorn even insisted a few times that I had the potential to be the best potions student he had.”

In retort, Severus rolled his eyes and flicked through his book in search of the potion. “What a shame that you never completed your NEWTs. I’m sure Slughorn is beside himself.” He replied sarcastically, taking his wand to copy the page of instructions once he found it.

“Have Lupin try it first before you start attempting to make it more potent.” Severus stated with a knowing look in his eyes as he levitated the copied instructions across to Regulus along with the silver phial.  

Regulus felt himself questioning for a moment whether Severus Snape wasn’t as heartless as he seemed. Perhaps they would be able to help one another over the years to come.

ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ ❤︎ﮩ٨ـﮩﮩ٨ـ

Regulus had put off visiting Majorie for as long as he possibly could. It wasn’t that he wanted to avoid the woman, it was the unmistakable dread that settled in the pit of his stomach every time he even contemplated having to tell the woman that James was gone.

Remus had offered to accompany him, but he had, again, politely declined. He would definitely have Remus meet Majorie sometime soon, but this one visit felt like one he had to get through by himself and he silently vowed to himself that this would be the last time he allowed himself to break. After this, he would have to try and pull himself back together.

So, that’s how he ended up stood outside Majorie’s cottage, nervously playing with the black tourmaline necklace that the woman had gifted him after their first visit with her. He took a few deep breaths to try and give himself the small boost to knock on the door, his hand shaking slightly as it finally knocked against the wood.

It only took a few seconds for Majorie to open the door, her whole face lighting up as she saw Regulus. “Hello, sweetheart.” She greeted with a warm smile, getting ready to bustle him inside until she realised that there was no James stood behind him. Taking a quick glance around her porch, a sadness bloomed in her eyes as she looked back at Regulus, opening her arms for him. “I’m so sorry, sweetheart.”

Regulus, who had been building himself up to vaguely explain everything and then insist on leaving, found himself falling into the woman’s arms with the same heavy pain and grief pressing against his heart as the tears started to roll. Majorie was warm and her touch was comforting as she valiantly held Regulus together even when it felt as if he was falling apart.

With seemingly practiced ease, Majorie manoeuvred the two of them into her house and towards the kitchen, allowing her fingers to soothingly run through Regulus’ black curls. Regulus’ soft cries steadily turned into quiet weeps as he remained pressed against the woman’s sturdy body, anchoring him into his spot. “I miss him, Majorie…” he admitted between his soft sobs.

“I know you do, sweetheart.” The woman spoke softly, her other hand steadily rubbing soothing circles into Regulus’ tense back muscles. “If he could have stayed here with you, he would have.” She whispered.

Majorie didn’t rush him or complain as Regulus remained in her arms, seemingly set on crying until he had no more tears left to shed. It hurt – hurt much more than any other time he had allowed himself to fall apart. But steadily, the ache in his chest started to lift slightly and although it didn’t stop completely, the pain became more bearable.

He eventually did pull away and wiped his eyes, allowing Majorie to carefully guide him towards his usual seat and he sat down, taking deep breaths to try and steady himself. The woman was quick to pull her chair out and sit beside him, taking his hands into hers and carefully squeezing them. “His loss… it will get easier to bear. But you must allow yourself to feel all the pain that has come from his loss. There’s no good reason to keep it all pent up.” She explained softly.

A few minutes passed with Regulus steadying himself and Majorie keeping a close eye on him before the woman stood up, declaring that she was going to make them some tea. From there, Regulus watched as the woman pottered around her kitchen to prepare the tea along with cutting to slices of apple pie, placing the larger slice in front of Regulus with a warm smile and a wink.

Once the tea was ready, she placed the pot on the table after pouring them both a cup and retook her seat beside Regulus. Regulus reached towards her to hold onto the woman’s hand once more, smiling lightly. “Thank you.” He whispered, gaining a warm smile and a shake of Majorie’s head. “You’re as good as family, Regulus. If you need me, I will always be there.” She stated.

From there, Regulus began to explain everything that had happened to Majorie, keeping his voice as steady as he could as he explained saying goodbye to James, the promise he made Lily, even seeing Remus again. Through it all, Majorie listened closely with a smile that swapped between sympathetic and warm as she occasionally squeezed Regulus’ hand in a way that she hoped was reassuring.

“So, I’m going to try and find Harry as quickly as I can. Lily doesn’t want him with her sister because of the animosity between them. She doesn’t think that Petunia will treat him well.” He explained, making sure to brush over any idea or reference to magic.

“Well, I am certain that you will find him and when you do, make sure you visit. Bring your friend with you as well. The more the merrier.” The woman demanded with a soft chuckle as she took a sip of her tea. “I need to make sure that you and James haven’t just been flattering me when you’ve said you loved any changes, I made to my cream cake.” She joked, taking a bite of her apple pie.

Regulus feigned an offended gasp at the woman’s implication as he ate some of his own apple pie, nodding slowly. “You’re on. I’ll make sure both Harry and Remus come along with me and then you’ll know for certain that me and Jamie weren’t just flattering you.” He retorted with a warm smile, the mention of James still causing a prominent ache in his chest.

Majorie nodded slowly and observed Regulus for a couple of moments before letting out a soft sigh. “There’s something I need to give to you.” She admitted, carefully standing up from her chair and going towards her shelving in the kitchen, grabbing a ceramic jar and bringing it back to the table, pushing it towards Regulus. “He made me promise not to give it to you until he had faded…” She explained softly, causing a breath to get caught in Regulus’ throat.

With a nod of encouragement from Majorie, Regulus carefully grabbed the jar and pulled the top off, his breath shaking slightly as he noticed the letter hidden inside along with James’ golden black tourmaline bracelet. With his shaky fingers, Regulus grasped onto the letter and silently opened it, unfolding the parchment with a lump rapidly forming in his throat.

Hello, love.

It feels slightly strange to be writing this and I don’t know if it’s too cliché to add ‘if you’re reading this, it means that I’m gone’. Is that too cliché?

My point is, I asked Majorie to keep this letter safe along with the bracelet she gave me. I know that chances are, she’ll be one of the first people you go to when you need support, and I also know that she will do a fantastic job at giving you all the support you need.

I am sorry that it came to this in the end. I would never voluntarily leave you, love. Sadly, I don’t seem to have any choice in the matter, but I do know that even if it doesn’t feel like it right now, you will be okay. You’re the strongest, toughest and scariest person I know, and I love you so much for it. Ever since I pulled you out of that cave, you’ve had this light in your eyes almost like you could see the end of the war and for the first time, there was hope. Please don’t let that little light fade from your eyes. There is still hope even if you can’t see it quite yet. There is hope is everyone around you.

In my case, you gave me hope when we were together at Hogwarts and when you weren’t there, I turned to Lily for that hope, then Harry. And let’s not forget about Sirius and Remus. Mentioning Remus, make sure you reach out to him when I’m gone. I don’t know where he’s at, but I know that chances are, he’s taking care of Harry and although I have absolutely no doubt that he is doing an incredible job, please check in on him. I know he would appreciate your help, and I know he’ll be struggling with Sirius in Azkaban. I don’t know how much he knows about the Secret Keeper so feel free to tell him everything you know. I would never forgive myself if he lived the rest of his life thinking that Sirius was the one that betrayed us.

And since you’ll be checking in on Remus, do me a favour and check in on Harry too? I already miss my little fawn so much, but I know that he will grow up surrounded by love, even if I don’t get to see it myself. Just know that Lily and I are with you all, no matter what.

One more important thing I want you to know. Please allow yourself to love. I know you and I know how you try and cut your emotions off but ever since the cave, you’ve allowed yourself to feel more than I think you ever have before and that is such a special thing, Reg. To force yourself to feel nothing would be such a waste. Yes, allowing yourself to feel does mean that you risk getting hurt but that is a part of life and even if it hurts, it makes all the happiness that follows worth it.

Love the way you always have – fiercely and protectively. Everyone on the other end of that love will always love you just as much back. And, yes, I mean Sirius too. I know that you’re going to find a way to help him get out of Azkaban whether it be legally or not and when you do, you’re both likely to have some difficult conversations but you can both make it to the other side. There is no more Walburga or Orion to keep you both apart. You can have him back in your life if you want it. Just tell him to stop being such a stubborn git.

As for me, know just how much I truly love you – how much I’ve always loved you, even when I wasn’t entirely sure what I felt. Years later, I’ve realised that it was always love. A special kind of love that would live on even beyond us. Just because I’m gone, it doesn’t mean that my love is gone. It will stay with you until the end.

There will always be someone to hold your hand through your struggles, Reggie. You just have to let them. And you will always be loved as long as you allow yourself to be loved. You have so much love to give, so please allow yourself to give it.

You’re going to be okay, my love. Believe in yourself and believe in those around you.

Never forget just how much I love you,

Your Jamie.

Staring at the parchment for a few seconds, Regulus let out a shaky breath and raised one hand to wipe away the tears that were slowly rolling down his cheeks. Allowing the letter to rest on the table, he reached into the jar and pulled out James’ protective bracelet and silently put it on his own wrist, eyebrows furrowing as he noticed the pale pink stag charm at the bottom of the jar.

“It’s made out of rose quartz, which symbolises healing, unity and unconditional love.” Majorie explained with a soft smile on her face. “He made it for your necklace.” She added and observed Regulus closely. “Thought that you might want to add some of your own over time.”

Sniffling softly, Regulus nodded and rubbed his eyes once more, silently adding the charm to his necklace and held it over his heart for a couple of seconds. “He always was a terrible romantic.” He joked with a breathy chuckle, folding the letter back up and placing it safely in his jacket pocket.

“He also asked me to let you know that you should talk to Kreacher. He has something of yours that James wanted you to have back as well as some extra letters that he hopes you can deliver for him.” Majorie spoke, her warm hand resting gently on Regulus’ shoulder. “He said you would understand, even if I have no clue who this Kreacher person is.”

Regulus smiled softly and nodded, still occasionally rubbing at his eyes even though his tears had come to a gradual halt. “I know what he means.” He confirmed and finally looked back towards Majorie with his tear-stained cheeks. “Thank you… for always being here when I’ve needed you. I’m not – well, I’m not very familiar with the love within a family but I’d like to think that you are a part of my family.” He admitted softly.

The woman’s eyes softened as she listened to Regulus, reaching out to pull him back into a hug as she nodded quickly. “Of course we’re family, sweetheart. And I will continue to be here for you every single time you need me. All you need to do is find the courage to knock.” She vowed with a bright smile on her face. “Now, how did you find the apple pie?” She questioned, wiggling her eyebrows to try and amuse Regulus. It worked.

Regulus left the woman’s house that day feeling lighter than he had in the past week and with a new burning curiosity that he wanted to get to the bottom of the moment he disapparated back into the kitchen at Grimmauld Place.

“Kreacher!” He called out softly, quickly looking to his side as he heard the familiar pop of the house-elf. “Yes, Master Regulus?” Kreacher questioned, though there was a look in his eye that indicated that he already had a suspicion about what Regulus was about to ask him about.

“Did James give you something of mine that you need to give back to me? And some letters?” Regulus questioned, gaining a soft nod from the house-elf in response. A moment later, a journal and a small stack of letters appeared in Kreacher’s hand, and he held them up towards Regulus. “Mr Potter requested that Kreacher not give Master Regulus these things until Master Regulus asked for them.” The house-elf explained with a soft bow of his head.

“Thank you Kreacher.” Regulus whispered as he took a seat at the kitchen table with a soft breath, faintly hearing the house-elf disappear. There was only a small stack of letters, six to be precise. There was one for Remus, one for Sirius, one for Harry, one for Minerva McGonagall, one for Dumbledore and one for Peter Pettigrew.

The first three Regulus had expected to some degree but the last three threw him off slightly, especially Dumbledore and Pettigrew. But, since they must have been important to James, he would deliver every single one, even if the last two were just before he killed them.

His attention turned to one of his blank journals and his eyebrows furrowed, silently questioning whether James had taken the parchment from the journal to write the letters. That idea quickly dissipated when he flicked open a couple of pages to see them filled with James’ handwriting. Taking in a sharp breath, Regulus shut the journal and swallowed harshly, making a silent promise that he would read the journal one day. Just not today.

“What’s all that?” Remus questioned as he entered the kitchen with an empty mug in his hands, swiftly taking a seat beside Regulus to peer at the papers.

“Letters James wrote before he left…” Regulus whispered softly in response, gaze flickering to the letter for Remus and he silently pushed it across the table towards the male. The older male’s body tensed up as he saw the letter addressed to him and carefully picked it up, as if he was afraid that one wrong move would cause it to disappear completely.

Pressing a hand against Remus’ shoulder, Regulus smiled reassuringly and stood up from the table, gathering the rest of the letters with the journal and cleared his throat softly. “I’ll be in the library. If you need me, that’s where I’ll be.” He told the male and quickly made himself sparse, knowing that Remus might want space to read the letter. If Remus needed him, he would seek him out.

Not half an hour later, Remus did seek Regulus out in the library and they stayed in silence as the older, who had clearly been crying, took a seat beside Regulus on the sofa and started to read the book he had started. He didn’t want to talk about the letter or its contents. And Regulus was fine with that.

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How hard could it possibly be to find one damn muggle? Almost impossible apparently. Regulus had searched through countless directories to come up with zilch. Remus had searched through countless more directories with the same success rate.

Regulus suspected that Dumbledore hadn’t been as haphazard as he had hoped the old man would have been. But he wasn’t one to give up, so they had continued to broaden the search from the East Midlands to the West Midlands and East Anglia. It wasn’t until they started researching the South East area that they finally found something. It had taken five whole months to get there, searching through every directory they could get their hands on for the past five years, but it had finally paid off when Remus found a record of a baby born to a Petunia and Vernon Dursley in Surrey.

Unfortunately for the Dursley’s, Dumbledore had not taken as much care to make Vernon disappear as he had with Petunia. So, tracking the whereabouts of Vernon was far easier and by the end of the day in mid-March, they had the address of Vernon Dursley along with the name of the school he attended and the son he shared with Petunia. Apparently, the family had settled down in 4 Privet Drive, Little Whinging, Surrey.

With any luck, that’s where they would find Harry.

“Alright, so we have an idea on where Harry is but what are we going to do when we have him?” Remus questioned from his spot stood beside Regulus at the table in the library. “What do you mean?” Regulus replied in confusion, eyebrows crashing together. “Obviously we’re taking him away from them.”

Playfully rolling his eyes, Remus smiled and shook his head, “I know that much.” He stated in an unamused tone. “What I mean is, where are we going to take him? Because no offence to you, Reggie but this place isn’t exactly safe for a three-year-old. I almost got cursed on my way to the bathroom because I didn’t put a light on. What do you think is going to happen to a toddler?”

“Oh… you might have a point there, Rem.” Regulus admitted as he looked towards the forbidden corner of the library. Why was it forbidden? Because Regulus was the only person allowed over there ever since one of the books attempted to eat Remus purely just because he was a werewolf.

“Kreacher?” He called out as he chewed on his bottom lip. “Yes, Master Regulus?” The house-elf questioned as he appeared at the male’s side with a slight tilt of his head.

“Are there any other Black Properties that would be… safer for a child?” Regulus questioned, making a point of eyeing the forbidden corner specifically. “Any that preferably don’t have cursed objects laid about everywhere?” He clarified, watching closely as the house-elf seemed to be running through a list of properties in his head.

“There is the hidden manor in Wales, Master Regulus.” Kreacher concluded after a couple of minutes. “The house-elf Aures still resides there.” He added.

“I’d almost forgotten all about Seren Unig.” Regulus admitted with a sheepish smile, rubbing his neck. “‘Forgotten Star’? Your family owns a manor which literally translates to forgotten star?” Remus asked with amusement in his eyes.

“I forgot that you’re Welsh…” Regulus muttered with a soft huff before nodding slowly. “The manor itself had been part of the Family for a few generations where it’s believed to have been purchased by Iola Black, who was the youngest sister of Phineas Nigellus Black. Apparently, she purchased the manor a few years before she married a muggle, which got her struck off the family tree. She named it Seren Unig and set up the wards the surround the place, making it unplottable and you can’t apparate there unless the resident house-elf has been made aware. Hence the ‘forgotten’ part of the name. Only Black Family house-elves can travel there whenever they wish.” He explained, turning back towards Kreacher with a light smile. “Could you please pay Aures a visit and let her know that you’ll be bringing us through later on today?”

“Of course, Master Regulus.” Kreacher replied, bowing his head before disappearing with a soft pop.

“We’ll visit later today and see how much work needs doing to make it properly habitable. Aures will have kept it clean but if there’s any dangerous artifacts still lying dormant there, it might be best to bring them here. We can set up our rooms and get one prepared for Harry too.” Regulus suggested.

“Sounds like a plan.” Remus confirmed with a firm nod.

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As it turned out, Aures had kept the entire manor in the best shape she could and was positively ecstatic when Kreacher brought Regulus and Remus. She was quick to show them through the manor and the countless rooms which were all spotless. She had even pointed out three bedrooms close to each other that she had pre-emptively started to clean up for them to stay in, changing the bedsheets and clearing any leftover clothing from the wardrobes.

The only thing they needed to do was redecorate to their own tastes, which Regulus had insisted they did before they collected Harry. In reality, he wanted to make sure that Harry’s room wasn’t so boring and did look like a child would be in there.

So, they spent an entire fortnight decorating and buying supplies as well as steadily moving themselves into the manor. Regulus had asked Aures and Kreacher to clear out one of the rooms in the basement for a few cauldrons to give him a space to properly brew Remus’ wolfsbane potion, which he had already managed to make more potent with a couple of tweaks and feedback from the man himself.

Remus had brought his own touch to the manor as well, bringing countless muggle literature with him along with some mismatched crockery and mugs with several different puns and images on. He had insisted that they needed some ‘normal’ mugs to go with the fine China that Regulus had insisted Kreacher brought from Grimmauld Place.

By the first week of April, the manor had a few more homely touches and Harry’s bedroom had been decked out with all sorts of bright colours and a couple of piles of toys, including the stuffed fawn plush that Remus and Sirius had bought Harry when he was first born.

All that was left to do was collect the boy himself, which had Regulus quietly terrified. He had no clue how to raise a child and even the self-help parenting books that Remus had bought weren’t helping very much. What if Harry hated him? What if Harry preferred being with Petunia than with him and Remus? What if he messed it all up?

“I can hear you worrying from here.” Remus muttered from his spot tidying up the small pile of books he had bought for Harry. “You said it yourself that Lily wanted you to have Harry. So, she clearly trusts you to take care of him.” He rationalised, walking across to Regulus and wrapped a comforting arm around the younger. “You’re going to be fine. We’re going to be fine. We will figure this out together and we have Kreacher and Aures to help us with anything we need. So, take a breath and take my arm. Because I personally believe that we’ve taken long enough to go and collect him. So, no more procrastination.” He demanded, smiling reassuringly to Regulus.

“Okay…” Regulus whispered softly in response and wrapped his arm around Remus’, taking one last glance around the room. “We’ll figure this out together…” He repeated, more to himself than to Remus. “Aures!” He called out, the house-elf appearing in front of him a second later. “Please be prepared for three of us to return. We should be apparating back here with Harry shortly after we leave, trusting that we have the correct address.” He told the house-elf with a soft smile.

“Of course, Master Regulus. Kreacher is helping to prepare dinner.” She informed the two and clasped her hands together. “The wards shall be awaiting your arrival.” She added with a bright smile.

“Thank you, Aures.” Remus replied, squeezing Regulus’ arm with a reassuring smile. “Let’s go get the little fawn.”

Regulus nodded in agreement and let out a soft breath as he disapparated the two of them, aiming for 4 Privet Drive.

Crack.

The two landed on a street that contained approximately a dozen of the exact same house, the sight causing Regulus to scrunch his nose in distaste. “Obviously these muggles cannot buy taste.” He complained, disillusioning the two of them and leading Remus down the street to their destination.

There was no doubt in Regulus’ mind that Dumbledore had someone down the street to keep half an eye on Harry, so he wasn’t about to allow them to catch him and Remus as they took the boy away. Sadly, the paranoia of Dumbledore disturbing them before they could grab Harry had caused the two males to conclude that Regulus had to be the one to go past the wards. Although they were certain that the wards wouldn’t harm Remus, there was no guarantee that Dumbledore didn’t have a way of knowing if someone without Evans blood had gone through the wards. It made the most sense that Regulus, who now had the Evans blood in his veins, had a better chance of going inside undetected.

“I’ll be right here if you need me.” Remus stated as they stopped in front of their address, the number four gleaming at the two from its spot beside the front door.

Taking a deep breath, Regulus nodded slowly and stepped closer to the house, making a point of peering through the window first since he was still disillusioned. From the window, he noticed the horrific peach and salmon pinks across the walls along with a boarded-up fireplace in the center of what seemed to be the living room. From his spot, he noticed a rather large man sat comfortably in a horrible beige armchair and a tall, almost skeletal woman talking to him from her spot in the doorway to the… kitchen?

Regulus cast a spell wordlessly that let him know that there were two more inhabitants in the house, one upstairs in what Regulus assumed was a bedroom and the other in the kitchen along with the woman.

He shifted from the window to the door, kneeling to peek through the letterbox, the small gap giving a perfect view of the hallway as well as a cupboard under the stairs which had its door open and a bold and chain secured on it. That was strange but Regulus wasn’t familiar with muggle customs. Perhaps it was normal.

What wasn’t normal was the soft cry he heard from further inside the house, followed by an irritated huff and the distinct sound of something slapping something else, followed by another soft cry. Regulus’ eyebrows instantly furrowed, and he unlocked the door with a soft ‘alohomora’. There was a small niggling feeling in his chest that was telling him to get inside the house as quickly as he could, and that feeling hadn’t failed him yet.

With one swift motion, he opened the front door and took a few long strides into the house, arriving at the doorframe of the kitchen within a couple of seconds and the image inside the kitchen set his blood ablaze.

There was a small boy, who looked remarkably the same to James Potter, clutching at his arm that had been clearly burned by the pan that was sizzling on the stove with huge tears rolling down his cheeks. The skeletal woman stood above him with a wooden spoon and a stern frown. “Can’t you do anything right, boy? How hard could it possibly be to properly cook some bacon? I shouldn’t need to watch your every move when you have a stool which allows you to see perfectly well!” She reprimanded the shaking boy with an irritatingly high pitched, grating voice.

“I’m sorry!” The boy cried, flinching as the woman brought the spoon down once more, aiming for the already nasty looking burn.

The motion made Regulus’ blood run cold and a silent fury burn in his eyes. That woman would never touch James and Lily’s little fawn again. He took a more prominent step into the room, dropping his disillusionment charm and glared at the woman with a calculating look in his eyes.

Noticing Regulus, the woman stopped her motion and let out a surprised shriek, jumping back and held the spoon out threateningly towards Regulus. “Vernon! There’s an intruder!” She continued to shriek, making Regulus wince in discomfort.

A few seconds later, the larger man, now purple-faced, came bounding around the corner and aiming his attack straight for Regulus. Swiftly stepping out of the way of the man, Regulus wordlessly flicked his wand and bound the man in ropes, making him fall to the ground with a rather loud thud.

“Was that supposed to scare me?” Regulus questioned the man with a bored tone in his voice.

“You – you’re one of those freaks!” Petunia declared, having a clear debate about whether to try and throw her spoon at Regulus or not.

“And you’re a spiteful little muggle that takes out her frustrations on a toddler all because she wasn’t born a witch.” Regulus retorted, sending the spoon flying in the direction of the living room with another flick of his wand, his eyes narrowing. “He is a child, or do you not understand that concept, Petunia?” He barked, glancing towards the trembling toddler.

He eyed the woman with the threat clear in his eyes as he carefully approached the boy, his eyes softening as he knelt down. “Harry?” He questioned softly, a light smile appearing on his face as the boy looked at him with his teary eyes. These muggles would be lucky to not die at Regulus’ hand.

“Could you go to your room, please? I need to speak to your aunt and uncle.” He requested, watching as Harry nodded slowly and shuffled out of the room, still grasping his arm and went inside the open cupboard under the stairs.

Regulus’ jaw clenched at the sight as he set up a silencing charm around the three of them and his narrowed eyes landed back on Petunia, who was trembling with a terrified look on her face. “His room is a cupboard?” Regulus enquired in a dangerously low voice. “A. Fucking. Cupboard.” He repeated, hands clenching into fists at his side as he wandlessly and wordlessly levitated the large, bounded oaf to land beside his wife.

“You had better start counting your blessings that I can’t kill you. Not yet anyway.” Regulus stated, a wicked smirk flashing across his lips as the two muggles stared at him in fear. “Listen very closely to what is going to happen here today. You’re going to let me take the boy away from here and you’re not going to ask any questions about it. When Dumbledore comes looking in the future, you’re going to tell him that you have no idea where Harry is. That someone came and took him one day because you couldn’t properly take care of him.” He declared, wand pointing towards the two muggles as he quietly worked to alter their memories so they could have no recollection of him and, more importantly, Dumbledore would not be able to find out who took his precious ‘boy who lived’.

Getting rid of the ropes that bound who he presumed was Vernon Dursley, Regulus took a step back and held his wand more prominently at the two. “You filthy little freak! Who do you think you are breaking in here and telling us what we should and shouldn’t do!” He demanded, face turning the same shade of purple in an alarmingly quick time as he retried his original plan to bound towards Regulus.

“Imperio.” Regulus muttered, watching as the two seemed to fall into a slump and the man that had been aiming for him stood in his tracks. “You’re both going to go upstairs to your son and spent the next thirty minutes with him. After that time, Harry will be gone, and you can go on with your mundane lives. But know that if you ever lay your hands on a child again, whether it be your own son or another child, I will come for you, and you will die the most painful death I can concoct.” He vowed, motioning towards the stairs. “Now go.” He muttered, watching with his simmering anger as the muggles disappeared up the stairs.

Removing the silencing charm, Regulus made his way back to the cupboard and his heart clenched at the sound of the quiet cries. Putting his wand away, Regulus knelt down and peered into the cupboard, carefully reaching out and resting a hand on Harry’s healed arm. “Hey… can I take a look?” He requested softly, observing as Harry hesitantly held out his burned arm.

Luckily, Regulus always had a set of healing potions and balms with him at all times, a habit he had picked up after being saved from the cave. You never know when you need to heal a serious injury.

“I have something that will help that burn. Would it be okay if I put it on you now?” Regulus asked as he slowly took the burn salve out of his pocket. “It’ll make your arm feel much better.” He reassured the toddler, a smile growing on his face when the boy nodded in response.

Regulus moved carefully as he opened the salve pot and generously coated the burn in the salve, letting soft reassurances fall from his lips as he heard Harry’s quiet cries. “Harry… I’m here to take you to a safer place.” He started, observing the toddler closely.

“Have I been bad?” Came the small question in response, Harry staring up at Regulus with Lily’s bright verdant eyes, still swimming with unshed tears. “Aunt Petunia says that only bad children are taken from good families.” He explained in a small voice.

“Well, sometimes it’s the case that good children need to be taken from bad families, and your aunt and uncle are bad people, Harry.” Regulus explained softly, shuffling back slightly and motioned towards the front door. “You know, just outside is your Uncle Moony. And although you might not remember, he was very good friends with your parents, and he would very much like to take care of you.” He continued a soft smile on his face as Harry hesitantly peered around the side of the cupboard.

“And I also knew your parents. My name is Regulus and me and your Uncle Moony would like to take you home with us and keep you safe.” Regulus added with a reassuring smile, carefully shifting to stand up and held his hand out to Harry. “At home, you’ll get your own room with your own toys and there’s a huge garden where you’ll be able to run around and play. And for tonight, a big feast is being prepared where you’ll be able to eat as much as you’d like, including all the sweeties you’d like.” He described, a quiet laugh escaping his lips as he noticed the way Harry’s eyes lit up.

The boy seemed to think about what Regulus told him for a few seconds before tilting his head. “Will you…” he started, chewing on his bottom lip as he willed himself to continue, “will you read me a story at bedtime?” Harry requested softly, his little heart pounding in nervousness.

“Me and your uncle Moony will read you as many bedtime stories as you’d like.” Regulus promised with a firm nod and a soft smile still on his lips.

A grin instantly flashed across Harry’s face as he reached out to gently grab Regulus’ hand. “I’d like that!” He declared.

Regulus smiled slightly wider in response and leaned down to properly pick Harry up, holding the boy close as he started to make his way out of the house, locking the door behind him and disillusioning the two of them.

“You’re going to be safe now, Harry. I promise.” Regulus vowed, both to Harry and to James and Lily, who he was certain were watching them from the beyond.

Regulus made a mental amendment to his to-do list now he had Harry safely in his arms, the path forwards looking more definitive than ever before. Even though there was still a long path ahead, Regulus was ready to face it with the support of Remus, Kreacher and Aures as they ventured to give Harry a childhood that James and Lily would approve of.

Apparently, Regulus had a lot of unfinished business to take care of.

Regulus Black’s to do list:

1. Keep Harry safe and happy.
2. Brew Wolfsbane for the next full moon.
3. Find a way to free Sirius.
4. Find Barty.
5. Destroy every threat to family.
   1. Albus Dumbledore
   2. Tom Riddle
      1. Find the final horcrux.
      2. Find Tom Riddle.
   3. Peter Pettigrew

How hard could it possibly be?