Chapter 19
Regulus stared at the people around him. “One more time,” The Minister of Magic said, “Horcruxes? You’re sure?” Regulus nodded. “Positive, I destroyed them all with the help of Pandora Lovegood,”
“And you admit to being a Death Eater,” Regulus nodded, “Unwillingly I was,”
“Unwillingly so you say. Give a reason not to send you to Azkadan for being a Death Eater.”
“I killed Voldemort sir, surely that's reason enough. How are we meant to know that is true,” The Minister leaned forward, “How am I meant to know if you are just lying to get out of your sentencing.”
“He tells the truth,” Regulus turned and saw Dumbledore walking into the room, “Without his actions Tom Riddle will still be terrorizing the Wizarding World.” Dumbleldore stepped forward so he was in front of the Minister.
“I watched him kill Tom myself and without his warning many people would have died in Diagon Alley,” The Minister looked between Regulus and Dumbledore.
“He was still a Death Eater,” Dumbledore tilted his head, “To prove that he would have to have the Dark Mark, otherwise it's just words.”
“Well Mr. Black, show us your arm,” Regulus looked to Dumbledore who winked at him. How Dumbledore knew the mark was gone he had no idea but he lifted his sleeve regardless and unwrapped the bandage around it showing a scar where the dark mark used to be “And see? No Dark Mark,” The Minister looked conflicted. “There is no evidence of the boy being a Death Eater. I believe this trial is over. Come along Regulus there is something I wish to speak to you about.” Dumbledore walked to the door and after a few seconds with no protest from the Minister Regulus rewrapped the bandages around his arm and followed.
Regulus caught up to Dumbledore, “What do you want to talk with me about?” Dumbledore continued walking, “Its moreso a question,” Regulus said, “What question then,” Dumbledore stopped walking and turned to him, “The new school year is starting here in a couple weeks,” Regulus nodded, “Yes I know,” Dumbledore had a twinkle in his eyes, “Professor Slughorn is getting on in years and wishes to retire,” Regulus eyes began to widen, “You don’t mean-” Dumbledore smiled, “If you so wish, the position is open to you. After all, I remember you being particularly talented at potions.” Regulus began to smile. “I'd love to accept but don’t I need a Masters in Potions to teach?” Dumbledore winked, “I’ll make an exception.” Regulus couldn’t help the laugh he let out. He always did love potions.
Regulus stared off the cliff. To think a little over a year ago he stood on this cliff prepared to die. Now he was glad Kreacher saved him. He managed to stop Tom Riddle from winning the war. He was going to be a godfather and he had his brother back. His brother was proud of him. Dorcas was back to being his friend and quickly improving their relationship with one another now that Dorcas knew he shared the same views as her. Even his Mother’s health was improving which for some reason made Regulus happy even if he knew he never wanted to see her again. He stayed at Aunt Dorea house which now became a spot people came and gone whenever they fancied. He had hosted many dinners with his friends and Sirius’ friends who were quickly becoming his friends too. He was finally happy. All because his life didn’t end a year ago. He will never be able to thank Kreacher enough for going against him and saving his life.
He turned towards the opening of the cave, cutting a quick line through the pad of his thumb and pressing it against the rock to open the secret entrance. He walked into the dark eerie place with Kreacher and sat in the boat to carry them across the water. Once the boat hit the island in the middle he climbed out his Kreacher following. He glanced around at the cave's walls taking in every detail. He looked around at the ground of the small island searching before he saw it. His wand sitting close by the water but thankfully not in it. He reached down and grabbed his wand saying, “Alright Kreacher let's leave,” The two of them climbed back into the boat to leave the cave in a much nicer way than the panicked thrashing and yells of last time they were here. They climbed out of the boat and Regulus glanced behind himself one last time before stepping out of the dark and into the light. After all, he had dinner plans with Sirius that he didn’t want to miss.