Once Upon A Star

There was a time, not very long ago, when people lived in an enchanted world. It was truly magical; every other day there would be ballrooms filled with dancing people in the biggest palace any young kid could ever dream of. Grand parties, champagne and soft laughs, all it truly was. The Most Ancient House of Black made sure that the people of London had the most fun when they opened their doors for them.
Regulus Arcturus Black, the youngest son of the head of the family, Orion Black, usually had the best time at these famous gatherings. With his older brother, who was the heir of the family, Sirius Black, they would always hide behind the people from their parents’ eyes and had fun together. The two of them ate the most delicious treats they stole from the tables and danced through the night even though they were only eight and nine years old at the time.
That cold winter night, he couldn’t enjoy the party like usual. Sure, it was good that he didn’t have to pretend to be asleep just to slip into Sirius’ room a few minutes later or listen to his parents’ complaints about every small thing, but dancing didn’t exactly feel good before a goodbye. Yes, it was a supposed to be a joyous event but how can he think that if it meant his brother leaving him? Tomorrow. Forever.
„Reggie, why the sad face?” Sirius had pulled himaside behind a large red curtain, away from prying eyes. It was then he couldn’t keep up a smiling face anymore and his eyes started tearing up. It just simply wasn’t fair. His brother just chuckled softly and started digging in his pockets. „I’m only going to Paris to study. I’ll be home for the summer, you know that.”
„But you really have to? Father might let me join you next year.” Regulus was only a kid but he knew it was a foolish thing to hope for. He was only the second child. The backup. He won’t be needing such education as his older brother so it was impossible to follow him. Even if that was all Regulus ever wished for. He still hoped for it.
„C’mon, baby brother. I’d love to bring you with me but I can’t. I have something for you, though, something you will love, I’m sure.” Suddenly, the tears weren’t close to falling anymore and Regulus became very curious about the mistery gift. Those big, grey eyes followed every motion of his brother until he saw the little object Sirius was holding. It was a beautiful silver box with small emerald stones. A pretty yet dangerous looking snake was going around it, every small detail perfectly done. Regulus almost fell in love with it as soon as he laid his eyes on it but there was more. Sirius also took off the necklace from his neck and put it over Regulus’ head. There was a ring on it he used to open the box and reveal its secret. It was a music box.
„It plays our lullaby! Sirius, are you giving it to me? I can keep this, right?” With childlike excitement Regulus grabbed his gift his brother had gladly given to him. Both of them were smiling now.
„Yes, it’s yours. You can play it at night before you go to sleep and pretend it’s me singing.”
„Thank you! It’s amazing, thank you.” Regulus hugged Sirius with all his strength. He managed to almost drop the music box in the meantime but luckily he catched it just in time. Ignoring the looks his brother gave him because of that he decided that he would listen to it all night. If only.
Suddenly, the music stopped. It was very unusual to happen so both of them instantly knew that something wrong was happening. They were behind the curtains, so to see better, they pulled it aside just a tiny bit. Regulus stood frozen in his place as somebody made its way through the crowd. The familar voice of that person, he knew who he was to second he spoke.
Albus Dumbledore.
„I am terribly sorry to intrude this fantastic party, Orion, Walburga. I take my invitation was lost on its way to me?” Regulus didn’t understand the old man. He knew about the relationship between his parents and that man, he was told about it plenty times; Dumbledore wished to destroy every family that was like theirs. He never exactly understood what it meant – the Blacks, what was wrong with being like them? – but it was more clear when he had to go to his cousins’ funeral. His grandparents’. His aunts’ and uncles’. That man hated them enough to really do everything in his power to make them disappear. Regulus felt his hands starting to shake with fear. „I made a vow to myself, to always finish what I started. It’s time, isn’t it? I gave you plenty opportunities to save yourselves, to give me the power over the town. I could’ve made something big, I could’ve changed the lives of the people. It seems it won’t be me who does that but at least I will be the one who wipes out the family of Black forever. I will not rest even after death until I see the end… of the Black line forever!”
It seemed Dumbledore had sold his soul to the darkest of dark. He lifted up a vial from under his robes and it started to shine bright red above everybody’s head. Out of nowhere, it was total chaos; the chandelier fell into the middle of the ballroom, the doors bursted open and angry townsmen rushed into the dance floor. All of them had red eyes and weapons. Pitchforks, axes, probably whatever they could find.
It was like all Hell broke loose and Regulus could do nothing but stand there. That was until Sirius came to the realisation that they had to go or the people will come to them. With full force Sirius grabbed Regulus’ hand and they took off running. They couldn’t use the maint entrance as they were quickly surrounded so the only free way was up. Either of them could think, they just started running up the stairs, trying to find a way to get out of the house. But there was no out from there. Sirius tried to stay calm as he dragged his little brother from door to door but everything was locked and the windows were all too high to jump from there. Everything was a dead end. Until, they came up against somebody who was coming from the other side of the house. The Black brothers stopped on the spot – Regulus was getting prepared to fight the whole time in his head yet still hid behind Sirius’ back -, but the stranger didn’t attack. He was just a boy like them. Around the same age and he was wearing a servant’s uniform so he must’ve been a kitchen boy in the house.
„Come, quickly! Out the servants’ quarters, it’s the only way they haven’t found yet! Follow me!” There was no time to argue, Sirius decided to trust the boy so Regulus did the same. The three of them took off running again and didn’t stop until the kitchen boy turned a corner and went inside a room that didn’t have closed doors. After everybody got inside, he quickly closed the door and pushed a big table into it to form some kind of barricade. If Regulus could’ve catch a breath he would’ve been amazed at the boy. „Okay, right this way!” Regulus and Sirius were guided to a hidden door in the walls which led to a tiny stairway. And so much happened at once. The mad townsmen catched up with them so they were trying to break through the barricade and in the middle of all that running around, Regulus noticed that his music box had gone missing.
„No, no, NO! Where is my music box?” He turned back and tried to go to search for it but it was too late. The people who were out for blood had successfully got inside the room. The kitchen boy didn’t hesitate; he pushed Regulus back to Sirius into the hidden stairway and shut the door right after.
Regulus was panicking like crazy after that. Sirius tried to help him, be there for him, but it was hard. Thanks to the servant boy they got out of the house but it was worse outside.
It was like the whole world was on fire. They turned right, there were people throwing ropes around statues and pulling them down to break. They went left and there were people fighting everywhere, horses roaming free. Regulus was almost trapped under one of the untamed animal but Sirius saved him just a moment before disaster. Men and women were screaming all around them, too much panic, too suddenly.
„They’re going to the train station! I bet people are trying to get away, we should go too! Reggie, take my hand and let’s go, we can do this!”
So that is what they did. One of Regulus hands was strongly gripping Sirius’ and the other was forming a fist around the ring hanging from his neck. They were only small children in the midst of adults but they weren’t giving up. The trainstation wasn’t far from them so they got there in a few minutes, the problem was how it was full of people. Sirius didn’t mind them. He pushed everybody aside who came in their way and the only remaining train had already started going out of the station but he didn’t stop. The brother used their remaining little strength and started spriting. There were a few men at the end of the train who offered to help them by reaching out – Sirius automatically started pushing Regulus ahead of him, but Regulus’ legs started giving out. He also wasn’t willing to let go of his ring so he didn’t take the offered hands. There wasn’t enough time to think anything through. The men did what they could and instead of Regulus, they got a hold of Sirius and dragged him on board. The two small hands were made to let go each other and that is when it hit Regulus. He wasn’t holding Sirius anymore, he was getting away from him.
„NO! SIRIUS! I WANT TO GO WITH YOU!” Both brothers were screaming and fighting but it wasn’t enough. The men didn’t let Sirius go and Regulus couldn’t keep up with the train anymore. He fell onto the rail, under the chaos and everything went black.

after ten years

JAMES POTTER
The streets of London are filled with people as usual. There are all kinds of men and women all over the place: there is a mother with her three children, trying to keep them from getting into a snowball fight, there is a business man walking with a big briefcase towards the bank and there is a drunk man who seems to be in a rather bad shape. It’s the latter James takes the biggest pleasure looking at. He finds it funnier than it should be that how stupid he looks, being most likely around forty or fifty and he still can’t walk in a straight line. Why drink if you can’t handle it? It’s not like James himself doesn’t have a headache from yesterday night but he knows the limits. He gets pretty bored after a while though, especially when the drunk man decides to go and be miserable somewhere else so he loses the sight of him. Luckily, he doesn’t have to suffer for long because the one he’s been waiting for finally appears in front of him.
„Go to Hell, Lupin. Why did you say to meet at fucking seven in the morning if you’re gonna be late? I’ve been here for half an hour and I’m pretty sure my asscheeks are frozen together.” James greets the tall man with a few complaints but still gives him a highfive after stepping away from the wall he’s been leaning on. The other named Remus Lupin laughs at him without showing any remorse.
„Fuck, so you’re head’s gonna be stuck there forever?” James doesn’t appriciate this kind of treatment but when he hears his friend’s stupid laugh he can’t keep himself from joining.
„Funny, good one. Now, be kind to me for a minute and apologize with good news.”
„As you wish. I got us the old theatre’s building for the day and I already started to spread the words about your plan. Talked with the Longbottoms about it too and couldn’t shake them off easily, that’s why I’m late.” Remus sighs while taking out his cigarettes and getting one for them both. James takes the cigarette and pats on the man’s back – he totally understands, that family is super sweet and he loves them with all his heart but they can be a bit too chatty. Great if he wants some company and to let the whole town know about something, not so much if there’s much to do with little time. „You got a lighter?”
„Sure.” James uses the lighter first and gives it to Remus. „I’m feeling better already, good job. Can you imagine? All that’s left is to find someone who looks like him and we will be rich! No more forging papers or dealing with stolen goods. Everything’s going according to plan."
Remus blows out the smoke with one eyebrow raised. „Aren’t you getting a bit ahead of yourself, James? The part that is missing is the key to it all.”
„Don’t be such a downer. How hard can it be to find a boy around eighteen with black curly hair, grey eyes and some ability to learn basic elit protocol? It’s London, baby!” James grins at his doubtful friend and they both start walking together to the middle of the town, the old theatre.

They are in fact still in London, but things aren’t going as good as James was hoping for in the beginning. It started out fairly well, when they arrived he saw a bunch of people already waiting to ’audition’. However, that positive feeling quickly faded as they started letting them in. So many, so many wrongs! All he had for reference was a picture of an old paiting but it was still very important. How could he make anybody believe that he found the youngest Black if not even the haircolor was right? He just asked for dark hair – the missing curls could be explained or taken care of somehow but the different color is risky – yet the last ten man who came before them was all blonds. If somebody had the perfect hair, they were either at least ten or twenty years older or even taller than James and Remus. And the Blacks were powerful but the height genes got lost somewhere alongside the way. They never got close to looking at eyecolors. So it can be said that James was getting frustrated. Still hopeful, though, even as it was already late afternoon.
„That was the last one. Should we pack up?” Remus asks after taking a quick glance outside. James adjusts the glasses on his nose and gives a small nod. It’s time for them to wrap it up and maybe come back tomorrow. They don’t have too much stuff so they are walking outside soon enough.
„I don’t understand. We are so close! I can feel that he’s here somewhere. Right under our nose but still too far.” Remus seems to be a bit skeptical about James’ words but doesn’t interrupt. „Seriusly… If only we could find someone to pretend to be Regulus Black and we are set for life. One look from the loving big brother at this jewellery box and we got ourselves a fortune!”
That did the work to magic a smile back on Remus’ face. That small box James just pulled out from his coat; that was their way to a whole new life both of them been wanting for a very, very long time.

LEO
The door of the orphanage opens and a young man steps out. It’s rather cold in London in the afternoon so he puts his hand into his pockets as he walks towards the big gate at the other side of the yard. He almost reaches it when he hears a shout coming from behind and quick footsteps are following it in the snow.
„Wait, Leo! You forgot the letter I got you! The invitation to work at the liquor factory down the road. Is it this how you thank me for taking care of you for ten years and even getting you a job?” Of course, it’s Mr. Slughorn’s voice, the owner of the orphanage. It’s not like it’s not obvious that the letter was left behind for a reason – he doesn't need it, there is no way he would ever work at such horrible place. Leo forces himself to not roll his eyes and turns around with a little smile on his face.
„Excuse me, I didn’t mean to leave it there. Thank you for bringing it to me.” He takes the letter and quickly puts it inside his small backpack without trying to look a bit careful.
„Alright, alright. Now, go. I don’t want to see you for a moment more. Go straight to the factory! They are waiting for you! Give it to them and tomorrow’s your first day. Don’t put shame on me, kid, I basically begged them to take you.” As if. Leo might not remember anything before he came here with a bunch of other kids ten years ago but he isn't stupid. The factory’s owner visited Slughorn weekly and they were drinking buddies so it must’ve been one word and the deal was done. Still, either way he will never go there. He spent ten years at this place, sure, London is great but he desperately needs a change. He wants to go to Paris. He must go there.
„Yes. Thank you again, goodbye.” Leo goes out of the gate while fidgeting with the ring on his finger. That’s the reason he can’t go to the factory; there it says it in french, ’together in Paris’. It was the only thing he had when he arrived here and it must mean something. It might’ve been a family member who gave it to him and is in Paris. He didn’t spent months spending his small allowance on bus tickets to find one person who could translate it to him to not care about it after.
So, Paris is it.
The more he walks, the less he can see of the place he called home until now. He only looks back once or twice, searching for something inside him – maybe a small feeling that tells him he shouldn’t start the impossible. It never comes. It’s strange because he was always very careful, always followed the rules and never did something that was not expected from him. Isn’t this supposed to be scary? He asks himself that a lot on his way towards the town. He should be terrified because he wants to go to a whole different courty with only a few coins in his pockets and no clue about how to start this journey. First, he should probably use the last of his money to buy a train ticket. He will figure out the rest later.
Leo keeps his heads down while pushing through between people until he finally reaches the train station. He lets out a relieved sigh when he reads the the price of the needed ticket. It’s some special offer only today – who would’ve though his non existent luck finally finds him after all this time -, making the purchase possible. Well, almost possible.
„What do you mean you won’t give me a ticket?” Leo doesn’t want to believe what he’s hearing right now.
„I said what I’ve said, kid. No exit visa, no ticket to Paris. Next!” The person behind the counter throws him an angry look for holding up the line and makes a motion to bring forward the next in line. Leo feels his blood pressure rising but he doesn’t want to make a sceen so he steps out of the way. How on Earth could he get an exit visa? It even sounds expensive and worse, it sounds something he’d have to wait for a long time.
„Psst!... You, Mr.!” At first he completely ignores the whispers around him but suddenly, a hand grabs his and starts pulling him away. He hates it when people do that to him so he immediately stops in his tracks and he angrily looks down at the fool who tried to take him somewhere. It’s a kid which only makes it worse. Honestly, fuck the kids, he had enough of them back at the orphanage.
„What do you want? Go, bother someone else.” He intends to walk away but the boy’s next words make him stop.
„You should see Mr. Potter. He can help with your… visa.” The boy talked quietly like he was afraid of someone overhearing their conversation. He probably really was scared.
„He can?” Leo can’t say he trusts anything that comes out from a ten years old’s mouth but honestly, he doesn’t really have any other options. „And where can I find this Mr. Potter?”
„At the old palace, the Grimmauld Place.”
„Okay. Thanks.” He thinks that’s the end of it but the kid lets out a small cough and puts out his palm. Leo looks at it for a few seconds – knowing full well that he expects something in return for the information -, but doesn’t bother to put anything in it. Does he look like charity? He didn’t ask for help. It might be a total lie too, he doesn’t want to waste his money. So, he just turns and walks out of the trainstation.
It’s not hard to find the old palace. He needs to walk through the town again but he can see the top of the place from basically everywhere. When he gets there, the gate is broken so he can easily go into the court and after that towards the main building. He starts to get a little suspicious; all of the doors and windows are closed with wooden boards, very quiet all around. Did that little boy played him like a fool and he let him? Thank god he didn’t pay for it. He starts walking next to the wall and he begins to think it might be better to just leave when he hears a noise. Leo’s sure it came from inside and that gives him plenty motivation to jump over one of the windows with just enough space between two boards.
„Excuse me, is there anybody?” He calls out with no success. The situation isn’t better inside either; there are numerous cracks in the walls and there is at least three spider family living in every corner. „Hello? I’m looking for Mr. Potter?” The last part comes out more like a question than a fact. But, he got this far so he doesn’t want to turn back anymore even without any response. He keeps going until he reaches the biggest door he has ever seen. He takes a step foward but right before pushing it open, he notices in the corner of his eyes a painting sitting not so far away, leaning against the wall. It probably fell down a long time ago and nobody ever bothered to put it back up. Leo could ignore it but for some unknown reason, he doesn’t.
It seems to be a family portrait. There are the parents, both of them wearing green and black clothes, not a tiniest emotion in sight on their faces. In front of the mother and father are two little boys. One with the bluest eyes he’d ever seen and one with bright grey eyes. They also don’t wear a smile. He knows about the family who lived here before the big rebellion so he assumes it’s them. The Blacks, all of them dead after one night, exept the heir of the family. He never really cared for other people’s tragedy, not when he had his own, but for some reason he can’t pull his attention away from this portrait. It’s an odd sensation, he isn’t sure about what exactly he feels but he quickly forgets it all when he hears a noise from behind the big doors. This time it’s much louder.
After looking at the painting for a few minutes, he finally opens the door which reveals a giant ballroom. And a black cat, sitting right in front of Leo’s feet as he steps inside.
„I see. It was you making so much noise?” He’s starting to get a little bit hot so he takes off his hat – letting his black curls fall around his face, the top half longer than the lower, stopping just above the line of his lips -, and scarf. „I take your name isn’t Mr. Potter.” Leo always liked cats more than most animals or, to be exactly honest, most people. He slowly approaches the small cat and gets on one knee to pet its head. It almost instantly starts purring and he can’t help but smile at that. However, he didn’t came here for this. He spends a little time playing with the cat but after that he straightens his back and walks down the stairs, into what once might’ve been a dance floor.
He starts humming a song while taking a walk around the room as he usually does without even noticing it sometimes. He puts out his hand to touch the hanging curtains as he strolls alongside them when he hears a crack sound. It happens in less than a second; he’s walking innocently and then suddenly a curtain falls onto the floor with a big bang. The rod which attached it to the ceiling must’ve had enough of it’s job, the last straw being Leo’s touch.
„Fuck! That could’ve killed me!” He mutters under his breath after he jumped away just in time. That was awfully close.
It doesn’t take a full minute until he hears the big door opening again and from where he stands he can see two male figures at the top of the stairway. He stops breathing for a second, the whole place seemed empty only moments ago. But… that’s not one person but two. He only heard one name from the kid. Leo doesn’t want to risk getting caught by the police or any others who uses this abandonned place for who knows what.
„Hey, you there!” One of the men shouts at him and Leo automatically stars going backwards. He doesn’t start running until he sees them running so it’s only normal for him to do the same. „Stop, wait! Stop! Hold on for a minute!”
He must’ve gone mad thanks to the amount of dirt he breathed in at this place because he actually stops at the other side of the room. He goes up the stairs there and turns around to face his chasers. He didn’t even notice until now that the black cat followed him and is sitting in the middle of the stairs.
„Thank God. Now, please tell me how did you get in he-… here?” The man with glasses stops at the bottom of the stairs and immediately begins talking. He starts out with an accusing tone in his voice mixed with curiousity but he loses his confidence at the end. The stranger’s eyes travel behind Leo for a moment before landing on him again, now fully displaying pure shock. He looks back at his companion and they start talking like he wasn’t there.
„Remus, are you seeing what I’m seeing?”
„That… can’t be possible.”
„So you see it too! It’s almost uncanny.”
„Yes, I have to agree with you. Unbelievable.”
„Are you Mr. Potter? Or you?” Leo didn’t understand a word from their previus little chat but he decides it’s better to just ignore it. He needs to find this Mr. Potter, he doesn’t have time to waste. If he’s not one of them, he runs out.
„Might be. That pretty much depends on who’s looking for him.” Such a smart answer. Leo doesn’t like that at all especially with the growing smile on his face. The other man – Remus Potter, maybe? – is smiling too. He can already tell they’re crazy. They were shouting at him just a minute ago.
„My name is Leo. I need travel papers and I need to find Mr. Potter to get them.” Lying would be pointless if it’s them he’s been looking for or if he’s just going to leave them here so he sticks to the truth.
„Hm… papers, you say?” The nameless man starts going in circles around him which makes Leo’s hands itching to get in contact with his nose. Maybe break the stupid glasses too. He’s not a fucking object anybody can just stare at shamelessly and what’s worse, this guy’s tall. Like really tall. He thanks God the other one doesn’t come as close because that Remus is abnormally tall and he already feels like a gnome.
„Stop doing that! Didn’t your parent teach you some manners?” Leo makes a point by turning to the man however he tries to get behind him.
„Oh, oh. I’m terribly sorry, Leon, it’s just that you look so much like… nevermind. You said something about travel papers?” The man who looks like he’s barely twenty years old changes his behaviour like Mr. Slughorn used to change channels at the orphanage. Until now, he chased him, he circled him like he’s in a fair and now he’s being polite. How long has it been since that curtain drew attention to him? Three minutes, tops.
„It’s Leo and yes. I’d like to get travel papers.” It almost causes physical pain for Leo to play nice but he’s been living with thirty other kids in one house for the last ten years. Sometimes, it’s the only way to get what one wants. „Would you be able to help me?”
„Well, you came to the best place. Let me introduce myself and my dear friend properly.” He grins at Regulus. „I am indeed Mr. Potter. Full name’s James Potter. Please, just call me James. And that one with the angry looking cat is Remus Lupin. And you are?”
Finally, some good news for Leo. He finds the Potter man rather annoying and he truly kind of wished it was not him he’s been looking for but still, hearing that he hadn’t wasted his time searching for a man who didn’t exist gives him some relief.
„I am still Leo. Glad we’ve officially met.”
„Is there a last name that goes with that?” Leo raises his eyebrows at the question and James puts his hands up in the air, acting all innocent. „You asked for papers and it’s a pretty important information for that, you know.”
„Fair enough. I don’t have a last name, not one I can remember anyways so you can write whatever.” A surprised look from James and Leo knows he made a mistake by telling more than he should’ve. Potter turns to speak with Remus – to tell him off for torturing the cat who obviously doesn’t want to be held and there is something more Leo’s unable to hear -, and then back to him.
„How unusual… Anything more we should now about? Why do you need illegal papers, anyways? Are you in trouble? You know, we don’t deal with gangsters…” Biggest and fattest lie that ever left James’ lips and Remus almost can’t hold his laughter, but Leo doesn’t know that. So, obviously, feeling like his chance is slipping away, he makes a step closer to them hurriedly.
„Wait, please! I’ve lived in an orphanage since I was eight. I haven’t done anything wrong in that time. You know all I know, because I don’t have any memory about my life before I became an orphan. They told me my family probably died during the rebellion and I have amnesia because of the trauma. It’s the truth, I swear. I am no gangster.” Leo takes a big breath while playing with the ring on his finger behind his back. „I just need papers to go to Paris. I might have some family left there.”
„Holy shit… It’s perfect.” James says it very quietly, mostly to himself before asking something from Remus. After a moment, Leo sees three piece of paper in his hand. „As luck would have it, Leo, we are also on our way to Paris and I have three tickets with visas…” Leo’s heart almost jumps out of his chest hearing that but five minutes with the two man already taught him to be cautious. He isn’t really surprised when James goes on. „But the third one is for him.” James’ words leave a lot of questions even after he looks at Remus who point at the portrait hanging from the wall behind them. It’s very similar to the one he found but it’s much bigger. The Blacks.
„Who’s him?” Still not understanding what’s happening, he must ask.
„The last remaining member in London of the Most Ancient House of Black, Regulus Black. You know, I have to say it, you look very much like him. The darkest hair with natural curls…” James says it like it’s not someone everybody thought was dead until a few month ago. He heard about the rumors back at the orphanage but it wasn’t something he was very interested.
„You have the eyes of him, too.” Remus adds and Leo can only blink at both of them without a thought behind said eyes.
„That nose is just like the brother’s!”
„The lips are like none other, an exact copy of Walburga Black.”
„A lean figure like Orion Black’s… everything’s just right! You look about eighteen, you can’t be taller than 5’8” and you seem capable of learning a few things about etiquetts and such.”
„Stop this! What are you trying to say? You two actually believe I’m Regulus Black?” That’s it, it’s an impossible task not to laugh at this so Leo does.
„No, all we’re trying to say is that we’ve been searching for someone who looks like Regulus for a long time and none of the boy we’ve seen so far looked exactly like him! Like you!” James got a bit defensive after hearing Leo’s voice’s tone which made him laugh and smile harder.
„I knew from the beginning that Potter, you are crazy, but now I know that it’s the both of you.”
„No, no, Leo, think about it.” Remus gets closer to them, throws a hand over Leo’s shouldersand brings them closer to the portrait. The whole situation is so absurd that Leo forgets to push him away. „You said it yourself! You are going to Paris to find your family. Aside from the obvious similarities you have with the eight years old Regulus Black, you should know his the last living family member lives there. An older brother. Could that be a concidence?”
James steps right to the other side of Leo so now he’s mushed between the two man.
„You’ve never thought about the possibility? It makes sense to me.” No, Leo never in a million years dared to dream about being royalty. And now, he’s doing it as James’ words starts filling up his head along with Remus’. „We’ll let you think about it but nothing changes the fact that the third ticket belongs to him. Only him.”
He feels the two of them letting go of his shoulders and taking a few steps back. He keeps his head up and looks at the big painting, mostly at the younger child in it. Could it be possible? Of course not, that would be a foolish thing to believe. He’s not Regulus Black. Regulus Black is probably dead like the rest of the family except one. And yet… how could he pass on a possible trip to Paris? He doesn’t have a lot of option. He’s already waited for ten years to finally find out who he was and the first step is getting to Paris.
„Wait! I’ll do it. Like, seriously, who’s to say I am not him?” He looks behind his back and sees the two smiling like the crazy people they are. „Let’s go to Paris. If everything goes well I find myself a brother and if not, it was just an honest mistake. There’s really nothing wrong with giving it a try.”
„Exactly!” James offers Leo a hand to make the deal and they shake on it. „Ladies and Gentleman, here we have who everyody thought was lost forever, the youngest of the Blacks, Regulus Black!”

ALBUS DUMBLEDORE
It’s been horribe for Dumbledore since the rebellion. He sold his soul to the dark forces and why? Only to fail miserably. The heir of the the Most Ancient House of Black escaped to somewhere he can’t reach. That’s the reason he’s spent the last ten years in the middle of a cave, surrounded with a lake filled with lost souls. He can’t move on so there’s no ’rest in peace’ for him and it will be like that forever.
He thinks that until out of nowhere, without any warning, the vial hanging from his neck starts glowing. Dumbledore almost stumbles backwards at how quickly he gets up from the dirt.
„How is this possible…?” He slowly takes it off and looks at the glowing red light in his palm. Suddenly, he hears low whispers telling him what do to and he does as they say without asking. Dumbledore walks to the end of his small island and kneels down right where the water’s almost touching him. He takes out the plug from the vial and he lets one single drops fall into the lake. Nothing happens for a second but after that one second, everything is clear; Dumbredore can see the inside of the palace, he can hear as the three boys are talking about going to Paris, it takes one look at Leo’s face and he knows. He’s supposed to dead. Like Dumbledore he’s supposed to be dead. And not only Regulus Black is alive but he plans on reuniting with his brother? No. What if this is the real reason he’s still trapped in here? He can’t let it happen. He might’ve been uncapable of killing Sirius Black but he fled to a whole different country and England has been clear from the Blacks’ taint. He wouldn’t be surprise if a sudden family meeting would inspire them to go back to London together. Never.
He brings the vial close to his lips and starts whispercing to it. „You, dark forces, have my whole soul. I have given up my everything and you’ve let me down. Now, I ask for one thing so I maybe able to move on from this place… Kill Regulus Black. Destroy him.”

LEO
„What are you saying?”
„No.”
„Yes? The cat’s coming.”
„No. I said no.”
„And I said yes. I told you at the palace. Cat follows me to the train, the cat’s coming too.”
„It’s still a no.”
„It’s a yes. I can do this all day, you know.”
„So can I, honey. The cat is staying.”
„The cat is coming!”
„Please, you might have no problem doing this the whole time but I do. James, just ignore the fucking cat and get on.”
It’s the early evening and Leo is sure about only two things. First, he misread the signs about Remus – probably because he was standing too close to a certain someone – and he’s actually a pretty cool dude. He’s the real thing, the one behind making the fake papers that got them on the train and apart from being an excellent criminal, he’s funny and charming. Also, Leo has to admit he probably took a liking to him thanks to him being silent at most times. Remus only speaks when spoken to or when he actually has something worth saying. And that takes him to the second thing, James Potter, who he read perfectly from the moment the man opened his mouth. Is it just Leo or James didn’t fucking closed it back since they’ve met? He’s the opposite of everything he has ever liked and it’s quite a challenge to stop fighting with him about anything. They are only getting on the train because Remus is there with them and at least James has some sense to listen to his friend.
Happy with the outcome, Leo grabs his cat off the floor and brings it with him to the train until they find an empty cabin. They wanted him to be basically a lost prince so they can carry his bags too.
„It’s a fucking backpack. Why is it so heavy?” James groans as he puts the last of their bags – Leo’s stuff – above their heads. The train had already left London and is moving so it made it even harder to keep balance.
„Don’t you think you’re just weak? Instead of bringing down my mood, you could be lifting up some weights so a small bag won’t cause such problems next time.” Leo says while sliding down in his seat and looking out the window. It’s the first time he goes outside of his hometown – well, first time he remembers.
„You always this grumpy? Look at you, acting like a hateful old man. Tsk.” He doesn’t look at James and only gives a lazy shrug as a response. „At least sit up straight. You’re supposed to be the son of the great leader of our country, for fuck’s sake.”
„Yes, that’s right. You tell me I’m royalty? And who are you again, telling me what to do?” Leo spits back and pets his cat to calm down. If looks could kill, James would be six feet under. Eighty times over.
„It’s true, James. Why are you bothering our Regulus?” Remus asks all sweetly and Leo couldn’t pinpoint a single funny word in that two sentence yet he has to listen to James’ laugh again.
„People need to believe him to be Regulus Black. That can be managed with his looks. The trick will be getting Sirius to believe… that this kid with no proper etiquett and a good word to say spend eight years learning from the most elit.”
„Fuck off, Potter! It’s you who doesn’t get a good word from me because that’s something people earn. You blew all of your chances of that ever happening. And I still have better manners than you.” If Leo didn’t plan on leaving to find another cabin, he’s sure going to now. After James’ answer.
„I know something you could blow.”
Disgusting pig. Leo scoffs and leaves without saying a word. He searches for an empty cabin and luckily he comes across one pretty soon. He grabbed a book to read before storming off but his mind doesn’t seem to keep up with the words he tries to read. It always wonders about… Well, James Potter. It’s been around three hours since he first met him and the other, more menagable friend, Lupin. Why is it so hard to find some harmony between them? And honestly he can’t even blame it all on James – he’s very dissappointed in himself -, however, Leo has never been someone who got on well with just anybody. But Potter? On their way to the train station he went inside a shop to quickly buy something and they had to wait half an hour before he wrapped up his chatting. At the trainstation, it was the same horrible old man behind the table where they had to buy tickets – that was another fight, Leo felt totally betrayed when he found out the papers James showed him at the palace were to an old circus show – and James managed to charm him enough to get more discount than there already was. Alas, he could be friendly with literally anyone but Leo? That got his blood pressure high the whole time so there was no way they could have a civil conversation about it.
Still, with James being in his head, it’s nice to get a little quiet and alone time. He finally has time to properly process that he is really going to Paris. It’s still far but with every passing minute it gets closer. The ring on his finger feels heavy and light at the same time. He wore it around his neck until he was fifteen and after he was able to slip it onto his finger. It’s the only thing he has that might navigate him to his family – it’s terrifying and exciting at the same time. Expecially now, thanks to having to stop by at the last living Black’s residence, like a long lost brother.
He’s so deep in thought that he doesn’t notice the cabin’s door opening until a messy, curly brown hair appears at the corner of his eyes. He sighs and looks up from his lap to James.
„Hey. I came to you because as you probably noticed we… didn’t exactly get off on the right foot." That’a one way to put it. Leo follows James with his eyes as the young brit invites himself to sit opposite of him.
„Really? And here I was, thinking of you as my newfound best friend.” Leo’s voice is basically bathing in sarcasm – this is the way he usually deals with uncomfortable situations -, but James seems like he doesn’t mind it. He even lets out a deep laugh but Leo can’t be sure if it’s real or not. „Don’t worry too much about it. There’s no need to apologise.”
That laugh dies out pretty quickly after that.
„Hold on. Who said anything about an apologie?” James’ eyebrows are living a life of their own. Currently, they decided to live on the top of his forehead.
„You should. You’ve been a jerk to me since we met. Like I said, I don’t need it but you should definitely think about it how it would be necessary. If I needed it.”
„Well, what about you? You haven’t been exactly the easiest person to get along with.”
Leo can’t help himself but take that personally. He is saying the truth, there is no lie in that, but from what he’s seen up until now, this shouldn’t bother James. That guy can be charming with a brick of wall.
„So you’re saying it’s my fault? I’m perfectly fine with Remus. I don’t think that I am the problem.”
„Right, that’s it and I’m evidently the villain. The only one who should apologise.” James scoffs while shaking his head. „I don’t know why I’m trying.”
„Yes and it’s really a poor execution of that. Maybe you should just stop talking altogether.” The air between them is thick with tension and Leo’s attitude definitely isn’t helping.
„Fine! Let’s just not talk at all from now on!
„Fine! Amazing! Just shut up.
„You shut up!”
„Why are you still talking?” James groans in frustration and looks away. Leo is doing the same. They sit in silence for a few minutes until surprisingly it’s Leo who breaks it. „Why are you going to Paris?”
„I heard they have the best croissants.” That’s not really the answer he expected while asking and there’s a high chance that’s the reason why James says it. It’s very hard for Leo but he just tries again instead of saying something nasty.
„I asked for real. Reuniting two brothers can’t be the only reason. Why Paris?”
„What can I say if it’s really that? I take you didn’t notice but I’m a very noble man.”
„Fuck off, I can’t deal with you anymore. I tried, you happy? Get out of my way.” Leo jumps from his seat as it’s time for him to look for a new cabin again. He pushes James’ legs with his hands to make way but he can’t make it outside. The doors still opens before him but it’s closed as soons as Remus is inside with them. He couldn’t have better timing. „Thank God! Please, let’s just split from this guy. I can’t be near him anymore.”
„Come on, James, what did you do?” Remus looks disappointed. Something other must be going on too because the way James’ face is like a big fucking television, always on and playing his feelings whit full volume, Remus is the opposite. However, Leo is too angry to care about it.
„Me?! It’s him!” And that’s the last part he hears from the conversation because after flipping off the lying bastard he storms out.
This is certainly isn’t how he imagined his trip to Paris. He never wanted to stay in London – the place never held a high place in his heart. It has always been just a constant reminder of a life he had once and lost. It’s ironic how sad he’d been thanks to the lack of memories while there was always a possibility that it was better that way. Still, London is a place everything was taken from him and Paris could finally give him something back. So, his destination was clear from the beginning. The road to said destination? Included getting to the coast, probably staying there for a while to gather some more money and then a ship. There was no weirdly tall man with a good hand to forge travel papers and an useless other man with a big ego.
Despite the circumstances and the hardship of slowing down his heartbeat after fighting with a fool, Leo still thinks of himself as lucky. The first plan could’ve taken months but this one? The train takes a few breaks at stations for longer periods of time but it’s fast while going at full speed. A few hours and they reach the sea. Remus told him it’s going to take a couple of days before they board a ship but it’s nothing compared to months.
„Going across the sea… and getting to Paris. You hear that, Sluggy? I’m not at some horrible, barely paying job but on the road to Pairs. Stupid old man, never believed me.” Leo whispers to himself while he walks back to the cabin with their stuff in it. He’s hoping James has that much in him – or Remus suggests it to him – to not come here. It doesn’t matter for long though because it’s been a tiring day and he desperately needs some sleep. The moment he lays down on the seat his eyes close and drifts to another place with much slower breathing.
***
A touch coming out of nowhere on his shoulder wakes him up which is just a horrible, horrible thing to do. Living with so many others in one room taught him a lots and lots, including this: never let anybody mess with you while you’re sleeping. His body reacts before fully waking up and his right arms takes action instantly.
„A! You son of a- that fucking hurts…!” Leo is still very dazed but hearing a disstressed voice so close to him is enough to make him sit up. The coat he used as a blanket falls off of him and knowing himself he knew he did something wrong so starts apologising. Until he can see who is his victim.
„What? I am so sorry I didn’t mean to-… It’s you?” James is still holding his nose where it met with Leo’s knuckles two seconds earlier. He rolls his eyes at the sight. „I guess it’s okay then.”
„You broke my nose! How is that okay?”
„Are all gangsters babies? It wasn’t strong at all, I was barely awake.” Leo takes his legs off the seat and strecthes his arms. He’s not ready to have another fight so he’s planning on leaving after a minute but James starts packing their things up after getting over being punched on the nose.
„We aren’t- Stop, it doesn’t matter. Pull yourself together, we have to move somewhere else.” It’s dark outside and Leo isn’t at his best just after waking up. He looks at James with questions in his eyes which makes the taller groan. Leo notes that he does that a lot but nothing more because suddenly, James’ hands are full of bags yet he still manages to grab Leo’s wrist. They step out of the cabin and that’s where Remus is waiting for them. Remus’ eyes slip down to James’ and his hands but it doesn’t take too long before the three of them make thair way forward. They don’t stop until they reach the baggage car.
„I think we should be fine here.” Remus states. Leo looks around until his cat jumps out from behind him and starts exploring. He sighs from relief before eyeing the two men in front of him. James let go of his hand after they came in so thankfully he doesn’t have to mention that.
„The baggage car? Seriously?” No answer, just bashful smiles. „Is there a problem with our papers?”
„Look at that. Not only the perfect image of Regulus Black but there’s a good brain too-” Remus starts talking and reveals that the papers are indeed a problem but James still tries to shut his mouth by putting a hand over it way too late.
„A-a, nothing of the sort. We just thought… A royalty like yourself shouldn’t have to share a place with the common folk. And I couldn’t keep turning them away from the almost empty cabin our sleeping beauty used to rest.” That is a shit lie. Leo literally heard Remus tell the real reason behind suddenly moving to the start of the train yet it’s hard to say out loud.
„Right.” He stares at them with a skeptical look. „The company of dirty bags and boxes is much better. Thank you, kind sirs, for looking out for me.” With the same fake polite voice Leo answers and he even bows his head a bit.
The baggage car is big enough for them that he can find a nice spot at the end with a good distance from his companions. It’s nice to have a bigger space and it seems James and Remus like this too, at least because they can lit a cigarette without the fear of getting caught. Leo would like to complain – in a wagon packed with highly flamable stuff it a quite irresponsible thing to do and he doesn’t like the smell – but he doesn’t. Not out of the goodness of his heart, that’s for sure. It’s the cold. So, so cold. James woke him up and dragged him here without giving him a chance to grab his fallen coat. He almost asks for a cig just to feel a littly warmer but he realises he can just go back to the cabin.
„Where are you going?” James asks immediately as he stands up. „Sit back down.”
„I’m getting my coat. It’ freezing here.” Leo answers casually, not really giving it a second thought.
„No. You can’t do that.”
„What? I can.”
„You can’t. Stay there and sit.”
„Do I look like a dog? I won’t sit. And I’m going.” It’s been normal for James to argue about stupid little nothings so Leo isn’t surprised. He thinks it’s ridiculous that he won’t let him go back for a fucking piece of clothing though. That he lost thanks to him! It’s pure luck he didn’t left his bag back there.
„Take one step outside of this wagon and I’ll drag you back on my shoulders.” James says it with such a serius voice that something snaps in Leo.
„Okay, just what the fuck is you proble-” He can’t finish one sentence before Remus interrupts.
„Guys, calm down. Don’t be a bitch James.” He says it to his scoffing friend before turning to Leo. A big ball of smoke leaves his mouth before speaking. „I’m sorry but you really shouldn’t go. The legal form has changed for the papers, I heard a few people talking about it. And ours are… well, out of date. You get caught, they throw you off the train.” No. That can’t happen. He already got this far he won’t go back to the start with a bonus big fine to pay. He’d rather freeze before letting that happen.
„… You guys are horrible gangsters.” Leo drops back to the cold floor and brings his knees up to his chest. „It’ll be a miracle if we get to Paris.”
Remus shows a smile that Leo can’t decide about if it’s apologetic or he has even less capability to show remorse than James. „We’ll see what happens.”
Leo really isn’t sure if he’ll make it far enough to see. He doesn’t have the body designed to survive such conditions; he’s skinny and his hands are always cold even at summer so obviously it’s even worse now. But he refuses say a word more about it and suffers through it in complete silence.
Until, he’s suddenly not that cold anymore with a warm coat thrown over his shoulders.
„Don’t say a word about it. I couldn’t hear my own thoughts because of your teeth chattering.” James is standing right next to him, in just a tucked in light brown button up with its sleeves rolled up on his forearm. He didn’t expect this at all. It came out of nowhere just like the smell. It’s smoke, probably some kind of cheap cologne and fresh wood. It’s a very… interesting.
„It’s only fair for costing me mine.” Leo doesn’t look up and he stills know that James is smiling shamelessly. So full of himself, it’s horrible. Leo would like to say it out loud but he’s too busy covering himself with the newfound warmth.

Everything’s good for a moment. Why can’t good things last forever? That question is often present in Leo’s life and comes to the surface again as the explosion hits. It comes when least expected. He immediately covers his head and ears, the sudden noise scared the shit out of him. Not to mention he thinks his life is over right when the whole train shakes for a few second. It doesn’t help when he feels it starting to go much faster and faster. The door they came through is completely gone now, that’s the first thing he sees after opening his eyes. The others are just as stunned but fine; James is near him, he fell back behind the same rack of bags and Remus was much closer to the explosion and his face is white but luckily, he’s not dead.
„Shit! The rest of the train is gone!” Remus is the first one to shout and he points a finger at the giant hole. All three can see the wagons slowing down and disappearing into the dark while theirs is still speeding up.
„What are we supposed to do?!” Leo asks while panicking. „I should’ve never agree to come with you, this whole plan was fucking stupid! And now, we die!”
„Don’t say that!” That is truly the last thing Leo wants to hear right now, expecially from James.
„Stop telling me what to do already, you jerk!”
„Agh, just calm down! We need to stop the train!”
Leo doesn’t have a chance to answer because Remus takes away James’ attention. After hearing the whistle coming from the taller one, Leo is witnessing for the first time most probably the main reason why those two work together. Now Remus is pointing at the wagon in front of them where there’s supposed to be someone controlling the train. There’s a big window they can look through on both of the wagons and judging from their faces, it’s nothing good.
„Nobody’s there. Not a single a single soul!” He almost throws up from hearing that. Great! It’s just the three of them, riding together to death at full speed.
„Stand back!” James shouts as Remus hands him something big. He uses that to break the glass and he jumps through, right to where the two wagons are connected. Remus is grabbing James’s hand with all his might to keep him from falling – not caring that the class cuts his skin -, while James uses the other to try and break the connected parts. Leo has never seen anything like that before. They’re mad. Insane. „It’s not fucking breaking! We need to do it with a stronger hit!”
Leo can barely hear James’ voice from the wind. He’s also still in shock from all that’s happening but he gets up. He starts searching between the boxes in hopes of fighting anything that could be useful. Not having a clue about what he’s looking for, he opens everything he can until he puts his hand on a goldmine. He doesn’t have time to worry about why it’s there, he just grabs a small bar from a box with a warning that says ’dynamite’. The coat he has on obviously has a lighter in it – the first time he’s glad he’s accompanied with smokers – so he lights it up.
„Take this!” He runs up next to Remus hurriedly and sticks out his finding.
„Sorry, honey, but right now isn’t the best time to- Fuck, that could work!” James looks shocked to see a freaking dynamite but the already lighted side doesn’t give him time to properly ask for more information. They don’t have the luxury for that. He does what needs to be done; he pushed the red stick into a small hole between the two wagon’s connection. As soon as he’s done with that Remus helps him get back into the baggage cart through the window. The three of them take cover quickly behind a few boxes and Leo can’t help but notice that James pushes him the farthest from the coming explosion. He never lets go of his arms after that and acts kind of like a shield for him.
The wagon where someone was supposed to be controlling the train gets separated from theirs with a big bang. It shakes the whole thing but unlike they expected, they don’t slow down at all.
„Fuck!” Remus shouts as he seems to take notice in how their plan has failed. „We need to do something else!”
„And what, Remus?! Do tell if you have any idea!” Leo can barely stand straigt on his legs but he sure can be damn angry. He won’t deny himself the pleasure if he’s going to be dead anyway. „This is all your fault! Stupid, stupid, stupid! What the hell was I thinking, joining two useless gangsters?!”
„It’s really not the time to throw a tantrum!” Remus spits back at him which he kind of deserves. Leo’s still answering with insults though until he sees cat – who doesn’t have a name yet, so cat it is – jump on Remus. The same time James calls for help.
„The hell are you doing?!” Leo runs to the back of the wagon where Jamis is currently dangerously close to the edge where there once was a door. Well, he’s practically over it by the time Leo gets there, only holding onto something under the floor of the train. One wrong move and he comes to a very painful meeting with the rails.
„Just give me the those damned chains!” It’s hard to hear James under these conditions yet he somehow manages to understand him. Does he agree with James not being able to go for two minutes without risking his life? Not, but that’s a tale if they survive the night. Now, he grabs the chains and shows it to him. „Not you, for fuck’s sake! Where’s Lupin?” James groans.
„Busy with my cat. Are you going to take this or no?” He can see hesitation in James’ eyes but nonetheless the chain quickly disappears from his hands.
He really didn’t expect to see such brave acts from James. First, he handled the separation of the two wagons and right now he’s doing something with the chains only centimeters from a horrible end. Leo would never admit it but he admires him for a moment there. However, he doesn’t have much time for that because James’ hands slip as some parts of the train drops while he’s working on stopping it. Without a second though Leo catches James’ arm and hold onto it strongly, not letting it go. He’s sitting on the floor, using his legs to support himself on both sides of the big hole and not fall down while James climbs back.
„You know, you look very pretty like this.” Of course James can’t shut his mouth up while he’s kneeling between Leo’s legs before standing up. That smug smile of his definitely deserves a big slap for being an asshole.
„…To think I could’ve just let go and be free of you.”
„Right. I’ll have to thank you later.” James offers a hand for Leo but he stands up next to him on his own. „We need to drop the chain’s other end out, now!” It’s still a mistery for Leo why there’s so many questionable items on the train but if it’s helpful to not die, he’s glad. He does as he’s told, the two of them throw out the heavy anchor that’s attached to the chain. The plan works! The whole railways is messed up behind them but they’re starting to slow down.
„Nice! Everybody’s okay? Let’s just wait until-!” James starts to turn around but suddenly there goes their bags, one by one, out of the windows.
„Jump, jump, jump! There’s no time! There’s a fucking tree that’s fallen right on the rails, I saw it and it’s getting closer! We are! We hit that and we’re done for!” Leo looks at Remus totally horrified.
„We have to jump out?!” Leo shakes his head. „No, I’m NOT doing that!”
„There’s plenty snow! And the train’s slowing so it shouldn’t be a problem! Go!” Remus tries again but it’s still unsuccessful. „James!”
„Got it!” It happens before he could stop it. One moment, he’s standing firmly on his legs and not having an ounce of desire to jump out of a moving train, one second later, James lifts him up like the grooms usually lift their brides on their wedding days. A hand under his knees and a hand supporting his back.
„WHAT are you doing? Put me down, right NOW! Let me go!”
Leo doesn’t mean it literally. He’s expecting James to act like a normal human being and let him die in peace if there’s nothing more they can do. And what does that horrible man do? He lets go of him – and fucking throws him out of the train and follows right behind him with Remus (who has cat). The landing isn’t great for none of them, the snow doesn’t equal to a soft pillow at all so their arses come in contact with land in a pretty hurtful way. Leo’s whole body is hurting and from the painful whimpers coming from his side his companions are going through it too. Those bastards deserve it. But… He has to admit, it still feels much better than being dead.
***
The journey continues with the three of them walking in the dark with close to no clue about where they should go. Remus swears that he knows a small town nearby where they could most likely find a new way to the sea. So they keep walking and walking until the dark surrounding them starts to get lighter as the Sun stars peaking out. It must’ve been hours since the train incident.
„No offence, but I don’t think there’s a village anywhere near us, Remus.” James says when they decide to take a quick break. Leo slept on the train so he’s fairly okay but the other two didn’t get a wink of sleep so they’re starting to get really tired and they need to stop more often. „Let’s just stop. I’d rather sleep on my bags if it means no more fucking walking.”
„That isn’t good… We’re already behind schedule and we have a ship to catch. We can’t stop until we are sure to have a way of getting to the sea.” Remus answers him. Leo can hear the tiredness in their voices. It’s not good. They really need to find a place to rest for a few hours. He really can’t finish this journey alone so he looks at the road before them; they are currently halfway up on a hill so if he goes to the top he might be able to see something.
„You guys stay here. I’ll be here in a minute.” He drops his bags to the ground and takes a couple steps before looking back. „Jumping from a train messed with you hearing, Potter? Stay put. I’m going alone.” James lets out a disapproving sigh but doesn’t start walking behind Leo again.
The walk is a bit longer than he expected it to be but he manages to get to the top. He’s immediately searching for any sign of even the smallest village – and to his great victory, it doesn’t take long before he sees one! It has to be a half an hour walk at most and they actually reach a village!
„James, Remus! It’s there, come!” Leo never shouted this loud before.

***
„You got it?”
„I think so? Bellatrix, Narcissa, Andromeda. They are sisters and Regulus’s – I mean, my older cousins. Bellatrix is known to be a bit crazy, she married into the Lestrange family. Narcissa is married to Lucius Malfoy and Andromeda is estranged from the family. But, Reg-… I still had a relationship with her?” Leo is getting confident with his answer until the end. The things he’s learning about are confusing but make perfect sense at the same time. It’s not easy to figure out how to make somebody else’s life his.
„Yes! Good job. Now, let’s go back to Sirius Black.” Remus smiles with approval at him.
Leo nods and leans back in his seat. They are currently staying in town at a lovely lady’s house. They only knocked on her door to ask for directions to the nearest room to rent but she wasn’t hearing any of that. Molly Weasley gave them everything; a place to sleep until late morning, they got breakfast and she even offered them a ride with his husband who will be taking a cart to the coast for work the next morning. Leo was hesitant at first but Remus and James only needed to take one look inside at the couch big enough for two person to sleep in. Two against one, so they stayed.
He wasn’t happy at first. The first reason for that happened soon after they got invited in when he had the ’pleasure’ of meeting Charlie, Will, Percy, George and Fred. All of them were the Weasley’s kids and they were just as hyperactive like the ones he left behind at the orphanage. Not a great personality trait in Leo’s eyes. No wonder why James Potter got along with them basically in an instant. The second was the moment he got told that he had to prove himself as Regulus Black. Not only look pretty, but lying and really pretending to be him. He almost smacked James in the face again but after some convincing, Remus’s sweet talking got him to agree. That’s how he ended up here in the afternoon; with Remus teaching him about the Black family’s members at the poarch while James is playing with the kids not so far away.
„A close brother with whom I was meant to go to Paris together…” Leo hums and he starts playing with his ring again. He doesn’t like talking about Sirius because it always hurts the most for some reason and he can’t put his finger on it why. This time, that sad feeling stops its grip on his heart because James jumps out of nowhere, panting. It’s quite amusing to see so Leo’s attention turns to him instead of his supposed brother.
„I can’t keep up with those kids anymore. Remus, my guy, want to help me out?” James looks at Leo with a smug smile. „I can’t ask him, he’d scare away the kids.”
He wants to protest but he doesn’t feel like denying the truth so he just rolls his eyes.
„Fine.” To Leo’s big surprise, Remus stands up. „I’ll try. The least we can do for Molly is give her a bit of peace… I’ll play with them. But! You stay here. You know more about the Black family than anyone. Teach him.” And after that, Remus goes away.
„What did he mean by ’more than anymore’? How do you know so much?” Leo asks the first question that comes into his mind.
James just shrugs and sits in the empty chair Remus left behind.
„I did my homework. So… tell me all the names in the pictures.”
„Orion Black, father. Walburga, mother. Those are the McKinnons. That’s Evan Rosier. Oh, and his sister, Pandora! She used to love coming to the Black parties because of the pretty dresses.” Leo doesn’t notice that he has started rambling while James’s showing him different photos. He stops for a moment though, holding Pandora’s picture.
„I don’t believe I mentioned that before… Anyways, you’re a fast learner. These?” James doesn’t hesitate for long before continuing.
„Walburga, again. Lucretia Prewett. Married to Ignatius Prewett, she’s Sirius’ aunt.”
„And yours.”
„Still weird.”
„Doesn’t really matter, does it? You should be getting used to talking about these people like they’re your beloved family. If not, how on Earth would you be able to get the Sirius Black to believe you?” James is saying the truth but it doesn’t mean that Leo can just easily accept it.
„Why are you like this? I’m clearly having a hard time and you’re not helping!” Leo looks at James with an angry expression. It feels like they are expecting too much from him in too little time and he was never good under pressure.
„What do you mean? I’m helping you right now, preparing you!” Leo sometimes wonders if James is really this ignorant or he just pretends.
„I’m not talking about fucking memory games with pictures! You’re asking me to be somebody I might not be! I am allowed to feel a bit of discomfort, aren’t I?!”
That shuts James up. Leo’s glad because he finally has a bit of time to breath. It’s really hard; he has already spent the majority of his life wondering about who is really is. This Regulus Black… That’s who he should be? He does feel something in his heart but it could be that small hope that always let him down – the same that lit up everytime somebody came to the orphanage, looking for someby lost. He wished it was him who they came for but he never was. He hates to feel like this yet can’t help it. Paris is the only thing that keeps him going.
„Alright. I agree, you deserve to feel however you want.” James’ words make Leo look up at him instantly. He can’t believe he’s hearing that right. „Losing your memory must’ve been horrible. I had a shit childhood but… I guess there are parts I don’t mind remembering.”
„Thank you.” Leo barely mutters the words but the slight smile of the boy sitting close to him is telling him that he heard it. It’s… not the worst thing, to have someone actknowlege your pain. Without telling it’s okay ot to just leave it in the past. A few words could really mean a lot. „So… shitty childhood? That’s an explanation on that awful personality of yours.” Leo lets them have a couple minutes of silence before going back to his usual cold toned insultes. Luckily, James doesn’t take it to the heart. He just snorts which is disgusting. And kind of funny.
„Excuse me? I’m a wonder to be around. It’s your fault for not seeing that on purpose.”
It’s Leo’s time to let out a small laugh.
„You think? And why would I do something like that? Entertain me, please.”
„Obviously, you either hate me or love me. I understand, really. The Potter charm is real. You’re protecting yourself from falling in love with me.”
He’s not quiet anymore. It’s been a few days – weeks, even – since Leo laughed that hard.

***
The last of their bags is off the cart with the help of Molly’s husband, Arthur. The Weasley were truly a gift of God himself – without them, they would have never reached the sea in time for their ship.
„Thank you, sir. We will be forever in debt to you and your family.” Remus is thanking Arthur for everything while James and Leo are trying to find some money to give. From mostly James’ pocket – after going for a quick bathroom break so Leo doesn’t want to question it -, they can present a respectable amount but as soon as they offer, Arthur shakes his head.
„No, kids. The journey ahead of you is still very long, you’ll need it more than me.” They would insist but the older man firmly declines.. „Just promise me you’ll be safe, alright? If you ever come back, all of you should definitely come by again.”
After they say goodbye, Arthur sits back on the cart and the two horses take off back into the town. The three of them stand there for a minute, watching it move more and more far away.
„Shall we, guys? Our ship awaits.” Remus is the first one to break the silence and Leo nods.
They board the ship and go straight down to their room to unpack. It’s nothing much; below the deck, just big enough for three matresses and a small empty space for suitcases. The cat seems to hate being on water because he doesn’t come out of Leo’s baggage, making it his permanent place for the road.
Leo doesn’t really come out of the room either after the ship leaves the harbor. He spends his time petting his cat or reading a book, maybe both. It mostly has to do with his fear of water and inability to swim – about which James was pretty damn mad about when he mentioned. But, why would he make a big deal out of that? This is literally their only way to Paris, it doesn’t matter. The ship hopefully keeps them above the water so there won’t be any problem. James is the one acting weird which is why Remus took him to the deck to give him some fresh air.
They don’t meet again until after lunchtime. If it was up to Leo they wouldn’t see him the whole day but out of nowhere, somebody’s knocking on the door. He looks up from the page he’s reading at the moment only to look right at James when he steps inside the room. An eyebrow immediately jumps to the top of Leo’s forehead.
„What’s gotten into you, Potter? Suddenly found your manners somehow?”
„Funny. Ha, ha.” James rolls his eyes. „I got you a gift.”
That is a first. Leo expected every kind of words to leave James’ mouth but not this. Is he being for real or just messing around? Leo’s eyes start their search and soon enough, he indeed notices how James is keeping his hands behind his back, like he’s hiding something there.
Leo stands up a meets him in the middle of the room.
„What is it?” His voice isn’t so sure and from the looks of it, James can tell that how he feels. There it is again, that smug smile.
„C’mon, love. Don’t you trust me?” Leo can’t possibly look less impressed. „Ok, ok, ok. I bought you a coat. You need to be presentable when you meet your brother for the first time.” James’ hands come out of their hiding and he’s really holding a piece of clothing in them. Leo touches the fabric hesitantly.
„At which posh store you got this? It looks like it was made straight from a castle’s curtains.” The coat is longer than his previous one and there’s definitely a heck of a lot more lace. However, its color is the darkest black and the material is in fact amazing. It’s light and smooth, maybe not the best for the winter weather but it screams elegance. Before he could inspect it from closer, James pulls it away. „Hey, give it back!”
„Why? Stupid idea… I can sell it since you don’t like it.” Not on Leo’s watch he won’t do that. He quickly grabs it out of James’ grip.
„Who said that? I asked a question, it doesn’t mean I don’t want it. It’s a gift, it’s only polite that I accept.” To his great surprise, James doesn’t try to take it back. He wouldn’t have succeded anyways but it’s still out of character. „After all, I lost mine because of you two.”
„Fine. We’re even now. Try to be careful with it, yeah?”
„I’m always careful.”
„I should hope so because I need you to come with me.”
Leo is in the middle of trying on his new coat and doesn’t realise what James is asking him before taking a few quick glances at the small mirror on the room’s wall. After though, he looks up at him with big eyes.
„What? Like, go with you up?” Leo asks even if sadly he knows what it’s going to be.
„Yep. Remus is being a nuisance and I can’t deal with it alone. Come.”
Leo could swear he sees James’ eyes linger for a moment before turning his back to him and going out of the door. It’s probably nothing. He’s waiting for him outside so Leo has no choice but to leave the security of the four walls surrounding him and he follows James.
On the deck, there’s only Remus. Most of the other passengers are still having their late lunch or they are spending their time with napping. How jealous is Leo! He would give everything to do anything but this – anything. He needs to go back to the room as soon as possible where he can’t see that there’s water fucking everywhere.
„Leo! You look nice. Black looks very good on you.” Remus say with a warm smile. „I’m sorry I asked you here, I know you don’t like it. I’m afraid we have no choice.”
„Why? What’s this about exactly?” Leo looks at him with doubtful eyes.
„James is going to teach you to dance. We-”
„No.”
„What?”
„I said no.”
James takes a step forward - strongly implying that this is his speciality, the useless arguing.
„Can’t you just listen to the explanation?” James pleads.
„Let me think. Nope.” Leo says the same as before.
„Quit acting like a child! I’ll show you a few steps and it’s done.”
„Not interested, thank you.”
„It’s very important! You need to learn at least the basics.”
„Why? Why on Earth do I need that?” Leo knows the moment he asks the question that he fucked up. He should’ve continue to just say no. Now, he gave a chance to them to convince him.
„You show up, claiming to be Regulus Black. Sirius Black believes it and wants to throw the biggest celebration ball Paris has even seen. You’ll need to dance! Walburga and Orion made their sons take a bunch of dancing lessons from a very young age. It would be suspicious if you had two left leg.” James’ answer makes Leo very frustrated. He knew this would happen, he called it.
But he hates dancing.
„And you can teach me?” Leo finds it hard to believe but James looks very confident.
„Yes. I’d rather let Remus do it but he has literally no coordination. I sure hope you are better.”
„I’ll step on you your toes.” On purpose, Leo adds silently.
„As you wish, partner.” James smile is wide when he grabs Leo’s wrist and pulls him closer. Leo has barely enough time to breath; James puts one of Leo’s hand on his own waist while his other one ends up in the air next to them, fingers locked with James’. James’ free hand finds its place on Leo’s shoulder at the end. „Act like I’m the dream girl you asked for a dance. I’ll show you the basic steps but after, you need to take the lead.”
It’s not going well. Remus puts on music for them – Leo has no idea where he got a smaller version of a phonograph, he can only guess he borrowed it from the ship – and yet he just can’t dance like he’s supposed to. He never knows where to put his foot so James ends up helping him out with the steps but it feels and looks wrong. Remus isn’t afraid to mention that.
„Stop, please. It’s not working, I can’t watch anymore.” They both immediately stop dancing and wait for Remus to come up with an idea that could help them. They don’t have to wait for too long. „Got it! You two, change places.”
„What?” James looks at him like he has no clue about what Remus is expecting. Leo can’t mock him because he’s also no thoughts, head empty.
„I meant like, in the dance. James, you are meant to follow in this position while Leo takes the lead and yet you’re still leading him even like this. Now, I think… You just need to demonstrate properly once what Leo needs to do. Maybe after he can do a better job himself.”
Remus might know something about the solution to their problem but it doesn’t make it less embarassing, no, it literally doubles it. James listens to his friend; that’s how Leo finds himself in James’ arms, closer than before and James’ hand pushes his up before settling on his waist.
The dance is different this time. They take small steps at first but they’re getting bolder and bolder as the music goes on – James is a much better partner when he’s properly in lead and Leo can follow him easily without the extra pressure on his shoulder to do everything the good way. Right there, they can just dance. He almost – totally – forgets how he’s supposed to be learning.
„The coat’s lovely.” James whispers quietly into his ears before taking a half turn. Leo can’t help but smile.
„Thank you.” It’s James’ time to show a gentle smile.
„You’d look very pretty wearing it.”
„James, I am wearing it.”
„Oh. Right.” An awkward chuckle leaves James’ lips.
Leo should definitely tease him for this – it’s such an amazing opportunity, he will be disappointed if he doesn’t act on it. Still, at the end, he doesn’t say anything more. He doesn’t want to ruin whatever kind of moment they are having. He’s never been the type of person to feel calm even though from the outside, it might usually seem like that. There’s always a long train of thoughs sailing through his head, never letting him rest. He never would’ve imagined that it’s possible for that to just… stop. And dancing with James is the reason. In the middle of the sea! With a guy he found the most annoying person.
Feelings said in past tense, because Remus is the one to take the podium when he stops the music.
And James doesn’t notice until Leo stops following his steps and they suddenly stay very still. So close. Too close.
„Do you get it now?” Leo knows Remus is talking to him. He’s starting to feel a little dizzy – it must be the the rocking of the ship and all this turning around and around – but he’s prepared to say just to learn more. Yes, he can’t magically become a master at dancing and practice is the only way to achieve it.
„Give us a break, Remus. I’m getting dizzy.” James speaks up and Leo can’t help but feel a little disappointment in his chest – anyhow, he doesn’t mention it.
„Yes. I agree, this was enough.” Leo nods and completely ignores the way James’ eyes are on him the whole time. „It’s not like anybody will expect me to dance like a professional after ten years. Maybe, there won’t be any ball at all. There’s a big chance to that, too.”
„You sure?” Remus doesn’t look convinced. „One more song?”
„No, I’m good.” He isn’t in the mood anymore to dance. Leo takes a step back and turns his back to them. „I’ll go back to the room.”
Later, the sun settles down rather quickly without any strange happenings. All the same, the deeper they reach into the night, the more restless Leo becomes – it hasn’t been the worst, jumping off the train was definitely worse, but the fact that the only thing around them is deep water is making him feel very uneasy. Especially at this hour when everything’s pitch black outside. Looking up at the sky thorugh the small window isn’t an option anymore. He’s not so sure about Remus’ reasoning for being up this late but for once, he doesn’t mind the company.
It’s only the two of them awake as James didn’t have the slightest problem with falling asleep the moment his head hit the hard pillow on the floor.
„I was always amazed at this capability he has. Sleeping without a care in the world while being anywhere.” Remus says softly as if the faintest noise could wake up his snoring friend.
„It’s awful.” Leo replies. „How? I want to kick him. He should share the secret with us too.”
„I doubt it’s something we can learn to do.” Remus laughs, this time not so quiet but he’s still using a low voice. „I don’t mind. I like to consider myself a night owl so I like staying up.”
„Mhm…” Leo humms and a small smile finds its way to his face when his cat comes to his side. He starts gently petting his fur while the cat finds a comfortable position to lay between them. „How did you two meet, by the way? You and James? How are you so close?”
Judging from the expression of Remus’ face, Leo’s question brings back nice memories.
„We met five years ago. At barely fourteen. Both of us were roaming around the streets of London and we got hungry at the same time. I didn’t want to go home because my parents told me not to until I got myself a job which I didn’t have and I had no money either so my only option was… well, borrowing a snack from a small shop.” Leo has spent enough time with Remus and James to not be too surprised at hearing a story like this one so he nods. „I messed up. You know, my planning was on point but putting it into action was definitely not my strength. Never will be. James helped me out, got us some sweets and spared me from a pretty terrible beating.”
„So you stole from the same shop and what, best friends forever? And your parents?”
„They didn’t really miss me, it was better that I went away. So, yes, pretty much. We stayed together because it worked in our favor.” Remus looks at Leo. „You came from the orphanage, right?”
„Yes.” Leo can’t tell how’s that important so he looks back at Remus curiously. „Why?”
„We’ve spent long enough time together already so let me take a guess. You had loads of chance to go away and find someplace else yet you stayed until you couldn’t.”
„… My question stands. Why are you mentioning it?”
Remus knows he’s right and Leo’s surprised to find out he doesn’t really mind. Not like it’s ever been a secret; he didn’t like the orphanage but he wasn’t forced to stay there.
„The place I stayed and felt most safe at was James’ side. We were young kids who needed to look after themself and surviving was much easier together. We could look after each other, it was secure and comfortable. Familiar?”
„My best friend isn’t a house. And bigger no to it being somebody from there.” Remus laughs again at that which Leo doesn’t appreciate very much.
„You’re missing my point.” Remus grins. „Using your words, being best friends is a bonus. I’m with him because I needed someone who I can count on.”
„And he was the best you could do? I must say, I couldn’t choose my own housing at eight. You might have a point in the sense that it was comfortable for a while but that’s it.” Leo never though of himself as funny but Remus laughs again. And when someone like Remus is laughing nobody can stop even the tiniest smile.
„He isn’t so bad. Nobody is more loyal than he is and he’s the kindest person I’ve ever known. You may not see it yet but I’m sure you will.”
They stay quiet for a few minutes. Leo’s head is filled with more questions he would love to ask but he doesn’t speak up, only wonder about them.
It’s quite nice until most likely the ship meets a bigger wave and their whole room shakes. Leo lets out a inaudiable whimper and he closes his eyes to pull himself together with deep breaths. It’s only a mild change in the weather, nothing too scary. Remus is now preparing to go to sleep as well so he should do the same. However, before he could stand up from the floor he’s been sitting on, something catches his attention – he opens his eyes and there it is, a small, shiny object next to his left foot. It was a beautiful silver box with small emerald stones. A pretty yet dangerous looking snake was going around it, every small detail perfectly done. It’s nothing like one could always see in the markets, it’s so unique Leo is having a hard time looking away from it. He reaches for the little box and carefully lifts it for a closer examination.
„Looks good, right? A very pretty jewellery box.” Remus finished making his bed for the night so he speaks while laying on his side from under the blanket.
„Jewellery box? Are you sure that’s what this is?” It seems like one but Leo wouldn’t bet on it. He follows the snake’s silver body with his fingertips and looks at the box from all its sides.
„What else could it be?” Remus shrugs. „James told me, it’s his. Must’ve fallen out of his bag.”
„I feel like… there’s more… It’s really beautiful.”
If there is, Leo doesn’t find out about it because he puts it back into the bag that’s fallen over near him, assuming that’s where it was before going to bed himself.

JAMES
It’s unusual for James to wake up in the middle of the night but something keeps bothering him. He turns over to his other side half-asleep to try and ignore whatever’s attempting to put end early end to his rest, uselessly. It doesn’t work so he has no other choice, he must at least open his eyes. He peaks over his shoulder and immediately stiffens when he sees the cat he wasn’t very keen on bringing with them to this journey making quick turns in one place. The small pet jumps on James – it’s very strange too, considering he has never been to most kind to the cat and he’s never done this before -, and down and up again.
„What the hell…?” He whispers in a low voice to himself while he sits up. He can’t deal with this right now – this is exactly why he told Leo to leave behind the furry creature! James would very much like to sleep and it’s not his responsibility if something’s making the cat go a little crazy. It’s the owner’. So, he looks over to the other side of the room and that’s the moment he realises Leo isn’t there. The cat’s now meowing and runs to the closed door, making more loud and clearly distressed noises.
„Leo?... Leo? Leo! Fuck… Leo!” James has no clue what could’ve happened to the curly headed. It could easily be a trivial little thing such as he went out to get some fresh air. Only, the ship’s shaking like it’s going to fall over at any minute and James knows if everything was normal, Leo would be under the covers, hiding away in his bed.
He doesn’t remember the last time he felt this panicked. All his air disappears from his lungs and his mouth goes dry. It doesn’t take a second more for him to jump off from his matress and run out of the room with force that almost makes him bump right into the wall outside. He quickly gathers himself and heads straight for the stairs, taking three or four at the same time. He’s only wearing a white shirt and loose pants, he didn’t even stop to put on shoes but that doesn’t bother him the slightest. There’s just one thing on his mind; getting to Leo wherever he is.
The storm outside is worse than James first thought. He’s drenched as soon as he steps one foot outside from the heavy rain. The sky is fully covered with dark grey, almost black clouds and the only light comes from the biggest lightnings he’s ever seen. For the latter, he’s glad; it helps him navigate through the deck as he tries his best to find Leo. It’s not easy. His vision is blurry from the never ending water that constantly splashes right into his face and moving fast is nearly impossible with a ship that’s almost on its side.
„Where are you? Speak to me, Leo! I can’t find you!... Leo, please, where are you?!” James screams without stopping while he’s searching for the faintest sight of black hair, slender figure or some kind of a noise that’s not thunder.
And then, he finally sees him. „Fuck, no! WAIT!” James’s eyes widen in shock; yes, he found Leo but he didn’t expect him to stand right at the front of the ship, on the wooden handrail with only gripping one stray rope. And who’s to say when’s the rope’s going to break away? James doesn’t plan on staying in one place to find out. He sprints at full speed towards him and there’s nothing that could stop him from getting to Leo in time, he makes sure of it. He cuts it close though; James’ arms close around Leo’s waist just when he tries to jump into the water. James holds onto him with every ounce of strenght inside while backing away from the danger.
They are both soaking wet and Leo starts to fight to break loose for some reason, obviously without any success, but James still feels relief wash over him. And anger, because it’s Leo and he knows exactly what buttons to push even in a situation like this.
„Stop trying to get away! It’s me, James! Hey, stop!” James shouts while caging Leo to his chest. „What are you doing?!”
„No, please, Sirius!... The water…! It’s not safe-! ...” Leo’s voice is lost in the storm. James can’t keep holding him back while he’s struggling so he turns Leo around to look into his eyes and ask him something – probably to stop fighting but James’ mind empties when he sees Leo’s state. The storm’s going strong but for a moment there, the time stays still.
„What…? What’s going on with you?” James can let his guard down because Leo eventually doesn’t try to slip from his arms anymore. „Are… are you okay?”
„No. No, I’m not okay…” Leo’s whole demeanor changes after locking eyes with James; not only does he stay in place but he hugs James and presses his head into James’ chest. „It’s everywhere! The dark red mist… it showed me my-… and it became so so wrong...!”
James can’t understand a word thanks to their surrounding and he can tell by looking at him that Leo’s all over the place. He’s not in his right state of mind. He must bring them back inside, the sooner the better.
„Shh… It’s okay, love. I’m here now. It’s over.” James’ fingers find their way into the tangled, wet and black mess on top of Leo’s head. He hugs him closer to make sure he can properly hear him. „You’re back and I’m not letting anything bad happen to you.”
They make it back into the room and that night, they both sleep on James’ mattress. The next morning, James wakes up alone and they don’t talk about what had happened.

LEO
Leo remember the feeling of horrid cold then warm, so warm like it’s the sun that’s trying to make him feel better. Of course, he knows it wasn’t. It was James.
He doesn’t want to seem ungrateful to the man who saved him but it’s hard. Mentioning the night before would mean a lot of things; they’d have to talk about why he was trying to jump into the sea, why he had the most realistic yet terrifying dream about someone familiar and why was this all because of a red mist. So many questions and he doesn’t have an answer to any of them. And James doesn’t push it, Remus looks oblivius to this all so it must mean he didn’t even tell him. So, the easiest way is to stay silent.

And arriving to France swept away the last remainig little chance of talking about it.
„I’ve always been fond of the thought of France. I’m glad it’s actually lovely.” Remus’ words are an understatement to what Leo’s feeling. They took a carriage to Paris – it’s Remus’ doing, he knows somebody working right next to Sirius Black, she sent it. That’s also how they managed to get a meeting with him.
„I still can’t believe it we’re really here. In Paris!” Leo can’t stop looking around and he doesn’t stop even after they arrive to their supposed destination.
„Yes. The only thing left to do is go inside and make a strong case as the one and only Regulus Black.” James sure is capable of setting the mood. He earns a glare from Leo which doesn’t seem to phase him at all.
It’s probably the best, truthfully speaking, to be reminded of the reason behind being in Paris. He’s been pretty casual about it until standing right at the door of a beautiful, huge white house. Behind it, there’s a man who lost his family and here’s Leo, claiming to be a part of it without one of his own. Is this how’s it should be? He can’t exactly back away now, so he needs to be confident, he can’t always let his doubts take over.
He lifts his arm up and knocks. Only once because before he could knock a second time, the door swings open.
„Oh, yes! I knew it would be you, Remus!” The greeting voice belongs to a woman with unusual, bright colorful hair. Despite Leo being closest to the door the woman goes straight to Remus and hugs him. Leo looks at James with confusion – Remus didn’t mention at all how close is this relationship between him and their connection to Sirius – but James just shrugs. He doesn’t seem too fazed so Leo reminds himself to not jump into conclusions too fast.
„Hello, Dora. It’s been a while.” Remus lets out a light laugh before returning the hug. They stay like that for a few seconds before this said ’Dora’ notices the rest of them. She backs away from Remus and smiles even bigger.
„Hi there! I’m Nymphadora Tonks but I mostly go by Dora. You must be… James Potter, am I right?” She turns to James first who responds with a nod and smiles back at her. Leo is next and for some unknown reason, his plams start to sweat. „And you think you’re Regulus Black?”
There’s a moment of silence, barely noticable, before Leo answers with newfound confidence.
„I know who I am. Yes, the name’s Regulus.” He can easily tell that Nymphadora doesn’t believe him, however, he also sees that she needs to look at him twice. He can work with that.
„You know… I’ve seen a lot of Regulus Blacks in the past.” She starts to walk closer to Leo, her voice is changed to a much more serious tone. „Why should I believe you?”
„Because it’s me.” Leo sees James and Remus’s smiles from the corner of his eye so he straigthens his back. „You can ask me anything.”
„Mhm… I do think that the resemblance is there.” The woman looks at him from head to toe, not even trying to hide it how much she observes him. Leo can’t judge her for this but it still isn’t the best feeling. „Alright, let’s give it a go. You’ve got the looks and Remus said himself who you are. I’ll think of very hard questions.”
Next, the three man are led into the white house. They are offered seats in a giant room; it must’ve been built to impress the owner’s guests because it does a fantastic job at that. There are two big, deep green sofas in the middle, a bunch of decorations all around that are screaming money and big paintings on the walls.
Leo gets a bit nervous again so he grabs the cat and puts him in his lap. Sort of like an emotional support animal.
„Let’s get started, shall we?” Dora says gently. „Where were you born?”
„At the Grimmauld Palace.”
„What was Regulus’ favourite childhood toy?”
„I loved my deer plushie. My brother got it but he gave it to me.”
„Good, good. At what sport were you the best?”
„Horseback riding.”
And they keep going for more than an hour. Leo gets a bunch of different questions and he has an answer to every one of them; for half, he doesn’t even know from where he knows them, he just does. It’s a very strange sensation. Regulus Black’s childhood life is becoming more and more clear as time goes on. He tells all about the balls that were thrown every other weekend or the private fencing lessons with the world’s strictest teacher. He talks about family members, mostly about a certain brother. The way trouble always followed wherever he went the same way his younger brother did, almost becoming one with Sirius’ shadow.
„I have one last quiestion for you. At the night of the attack, how did you get out of the castle?”
Leo’s memory is still blurry here and there but if he’s sure about one thing this evening, it’s this answer of his.
„…There was a boy. He he opened a wall for me. We could escape through an opened wall. For god’s sake, doesn’t it sound so silly?” Leo smiles. „Walls opening… Yes, it happened like that.”
James suddenly gets up from his seat and walks to the giant window at the other end of the room. Leo doesn’t pay him any mind, he’s too focused on Dora’s questions.
„So, is he Regulus Black?” Remus interrupts. The woman sitting across from them pauses for a moment before standing up.
„Well, he did answer everything flawlessly.”
„So, when can we meet meet the heir?” It’s unusual for Remus to be so impatient but Leo can’t blame him. He’s very confused right now but… he’s also very excited. His heartbeats speed up.
„Oh… I’m afraid you can’t.” Dora’s expression turns sad.
„What?” Leo and Remus say in union.
„Sirius doesn’t want more meetings with potential little brothers. You see… He’s had hundreds of people claiming to be Regulus knocking on his door. He said it’s too painful to keep getting his hope up only for it to be crushed.”
It seems logical yet hearing the response Leo can’t help but feel disappointed. He can only imagine the pain of losing someone so close to you and trying to find them without success. He’s hurting a lot too while trying to find where he belongs and he doesn’t even know exactly what he’s searching for. Just maybe Sirius Black and himself could’ve given each other some sense of comfort but now he’s not sure if that’s possible.
However, Remus doesn’t give up so easily.
„C’mon, sugar. Can’t you figure out a way for one, quick meeting?” It seems Remus can be quite persuasive when he tries.
„Well…” The woman starts with a light blush on his cheeks. „The heir loves the ballet. Especially the russain ballet, never missed one show.” She looks at the two man in the room and smiles sweetly. „There’s one tomorrow night.”
Leo can’t help but smile.

JAMES
„James! We made it! We’re one night away from becoming rich! Our plan actually worked!”
Remus easily finds James after leaving the big house, the brunette’s just casually leaning on a tree not too far, looking into the far distance.
„Remus… he’s really him. He’s Regulus Black.”