Mull it Over
Regulus’ POV
The sole suspect on Regulus’ list was Sirius. After a full two days of mulling over the situation, he hadn’t been able to come up with a motive for anyone else. Sirius, however, had a long list. Afterall, he and James weren’t exactly in a good spot right now.
It was likely Sirius was bored and just trying to do a prank on his own, since his friends wouldn’t join him. Sirius could also be doing it out of spite. Not only does it get at Snape, who Regulus knows he hates, but it takes a jab at Potter, therefore taking another at Remus. This is because Potter would obviously go and complain to Remus about this, who would have to listen because he considers himself a nice friend.
Sirius would be wanting to get at Remus and James for ignoring him and Snape for being Snape. He never liked him.
Just in case Regulus was wrong, though, he was going to follow both Snape and Sirius. Obviously he can’t follow the two at the same time, but whoever he were to see first he’d trail and try to get more information.
As Regulus sat on a ledge of stone overlooking the courtyard, he realized how stupid it was that he was trying to figure this out anyway. Not that he had anything better to do, but what happened to not sticking his nose in other peoples business?
He let out a sigh and rolled his eyes at himself. He’d put too much effort into thinking about this, and he couldn’t stop now.
Just then he saw Snape striding out of the castle and headed in the direction of the forbidden forest.
Quickly, Regulus stood and hurried downstairs, exiting the same door as the other Slytherin. He was able to glance a bit of black robe rounding a corner and he followed carefully. When Snape was in view again, it was more clear that he was going to the black lake.
Regulus shot a look behind him to see if anyone was following him, which would be rather ironic. When he was content no one was, he continued to trail the other boy. As the lake came into view he spotted another figure standing next to it, looking over the water. It hadn’t frozen yet but Regulus expected it to quite soon.
Snape stalked to the other person, and Regulus ducked behind a lone tree as they began to turn.
Regulus was now close enough to see that the other person was Sirius. Of course, Regulus thought. Perhaps he’d teamed up with Snape out of spite for his friend's coldness. Regulus didn’t doubt that Sirius deserved it and couldn’t help but feel angry at the fact that he’d be siding with that fucking snake. Especially over something he had coming.
When the two were turned away, Regulus hurried closer to hear what they were saying. After sliding behind another tree he focused in on the exchange.
“I don’t want trouble, Snivellus,” Sirius spat.
“I’m not giving you trouble, you git,” Snape hissed back at him. Clearly this wasn’t pleasant, so there was still hope that Sirius didn’t in fact join forces with Snape.
“Then make this quick. I have places to be, unlike you, because I have a life,” Sirius’ voice reminded Regulus of the argument they had last year about their parents. He bit the inside of his cheek to control the anger bubbling to his throat.
“Fine,” Snape sighed angrily. “I need your help.”
“Again?” Sirius scoffed. Again? “Look, just because I did you one little favor does not mean you can start begging me for help. I regret the first time, anyway.” So he did help Snape. Fucking asshole.
“I’m not begging,” Snape gritted out. “I am simply stating that I need you to help me. Last time, I swear it.”
Sirius looked at him, hatred flowing through him and showing in his face, his jaw shut tight. “No,” he enunciated more than necessary.
“Black,” Snape glared at him, and oomph to the ‘ck’. “You know what I have on you. I can ruin everything. Do you want to risk them?” He pointed a finger into Sirius’ chest.
The Gryffindor sat there with the deadliest stare Regulus had seen him use, and the younger Black could see Snape squirming under his brother's gaze. Sirius’ hands formed fists and his jaw tightened as he tried to control his breathing. Regulus thought he might lunge at the other boy.
“Think about it,” Snape gritted and stalked off, his cloak flowing behind him.
Regulus looked at Sirius, who was frozen where he stood. He stared at the space where Snape was standing.
“I’m gonna fucking kill him,” Sirius muttered and swung around, heading back for the castle as well. Regulus followed when he was several paces ahead.
What was Snape asking for help with? What did he have on Sirius? What had Sirius done for him? Did it have anything to do with the Polyjuice mishap?
Regulus let the questions mull over in his mind as he trailed his brother through the castle and to the library, where he sat with his bag to do homework. Regulus was several tables behind him and could barely peer through the shelves to see Sirius.
What have you done now?
-~-~-~-~-~-~-
“Has Sirius said anything to you recently? When you’re hanging out with McKinnon and such?” Regulus asked Dorcas, who was trying to figure out what the hell her tea leaves meant.
“Mm, no, don’t think so. Why?” She looked up at him, repositioning herself on the grass.
Regulus shook his head, “just wondering.”
Dorcas shrugged. “I’ll let you know if he does.”
“Thank you,” Regulus said, offering a barely present smile.
“Mhm,” she mumbled as she glared back at the sketch of the leaves she’d seen in class that day.
Regulus leaned on his elbow, head in his hand, as he listed the things Snape could’ve been asking for.
Maybe he’d simply been asking for homework help. Maybe he wanted Sirius to teach him a spell. He also could’ve been asking for something totally bizarre like money or possessions, which was unlikely but it’s not like Regulus could read the boy's mind.
Across the lawn was Sirius, and the other marauders (however they were several feet from him as he had simply followed them there). He was watching Remus intently, which made Regulus force back a smile as he rolled his eyes. Regulus knew a longing look when he saw one, and the face Sirius was giving Remus was the epitome of lovesick.
He couldn’t help but wonder when the two would just date already. They’d been in love for Merlin knows how long and Regulus had been forced to sit and watch them make love eyes at each other unknowingly. It was painful for him, and probably worse for the two of them.
He’d have to push Remus to say something next time they met.
Dorcas sighed and closed her notebook. “Well, I’m off to get ready for the party. You coming?” She asked as she piled her things and stood.
Regulus nodded and hummed in response, standing with her. The two walked together to the Slytherin dorms, Regulus glancing back at his brother before the stone pillars blocked him from view.
“You seem on edge,” Dorcas commented as they rounded a corner.
“Hm?” Regulus looked at her a moment. “Oh, uhm. I’m just tired is all.” Which was a lie. He was wide awake, despite his recent lack of sleep.
“You sure you wanna go to the party then? I mean, it’s not like anyone else is gonna be there. Just me, yknow?”
“I wanna go,” Regulus said, letting his eyes unfocus for a second.
“Alright, if you say so.” Dorcas shrugged. “James better be worth it,” she said quietly and Regulus shot her a warning glare. She just smiled innocently.
They made their way into the dungeons, and eventually to Dorcas’ dorm where she had an outfit for herself and Regulus. It wasn’t something he’d usually wear since the shirt was red, and he really didn’t want to be wearing Gryffindor colors, but Dorcas convinced him to say it’s meant to be like blood if anyone asks.
Although that remark may be off putting, it did fit his whole dark and brooding vibe, so who cared?
Dorcas herself was wearing a black mini skirt with a white button up, a red cardigan to go with it. He complimented her on her makeup; black eyeliner with Gryffindor themed eyeshadow. It was simple but well done and he had to appreciate the effort.
“I should do your makeup,” Dorcas said. Regulus thought she was joking but couldn’t actually tell.
“No,” he said with extra enunciation, smiling.
“Please,” she whined. “It’ll be so fun!”
“Dorcas, I’m not putting any makeup on my face. Ever. It’ll ruin my perfect skin,” Regulus half joked.
She rolled her eyes playfully. “Fine,” Dorcas drew out, hooking her arm in his.
“I feel like someone’s going to mention the color scheme,” Regulus said as he gestured to the black slacks and silky red button up. “The gold necklace doesn’t exactly help.”
“But it’s for the quidditch team, you have to show some house pride,” Dorcas said as she leaned on him slightly.
“I’d rather show up in all green,” Regulus shook his head. “I'm not ready to betray my house as you have.”
“Oh, shut up,” Dorcas snorted, shoving Regulus and dragging herself with him as their arms were still linked.
Regulus let out a breathy laugh as the duo walked to Gryffindor tower. Down the hall from the portrait of the fat lady they could hear the music. The Slytherin wondered why no teachers stopped them, or if they used some sort of deterring charm to make it practically impossible for them to do so.
He didn’t really care what they did, so long as he wasn’t roped into detention with the rest of them.
Dorcas muttered the password to the portrait, covering Regulus’ ears (although he still heard it anyway) and led him into the tower. The decor was generally what he expected, house pride everywhere, homey feeling. It was hard to tell what it would usually look like with the coffee table full of drinks, an extra table brought in for drinks and snacks, and people everywhere. The room was absolutely packed with body’s, at least from what Regulus could tell, but he was also standing right in front of the makeshift dance floor.
He was able to spot Remus across the room in front of a record player. It was no surprise that Queen was playing, and Regulus could see the next record he had lined up was one of David Bowie.
“Oh, I see Marls!” Dorcas shouted over the blaring music. “I’ll meet you in like, ten minutes?”
“Alright,” Regulus nodded and headed for the empty corner next to the plastic table when she split from him.
Peter Pettigrew was over there shoving a brownie into his mouth. Regulus rolled his eyes, grabbed a random bottle, and poured himself a drink.
Although he didn’t usually try to get drunk, why not tonight? It’s not like the Gryffindors would be much better off. Plus, he’d need some liquid courage to handle the group which occupied this place (Sirius and Potter, specifically).
Pettigrew turned to leave the table and saw Regulus, giving him a confused look. “Fuck are you doing here?” He asked with his brows knitted together and a grimace of sorts on his face.
“Dorcas invited me,” Regulus responded dryly.
The chubby boy scoffed. “Course she did,” he yelled over the tumult. “Don’t cause any trouble, else I’m gonna tell Sirius.” Regulus could make out a slight slur to the boy's words and knew he’d already been drinking.
“Sure you will,” Regulus said, too quiet for him to hear. The other boy stared at him a moment longer before shrugging and walking away.
Regulus sighed and went to lean on the nearby wall, sipping the fire whiskey sitting in his red solo cup. He scanned the room and was able to spot both Potter and Sirius. The former was dancing with Evans who was probably only ok with it since MacDonald was right there with them. Sirius was roaming about aimlessly and Regulus wondered if maybe he was looking for someone. Or something. Forgetful git.
When he finished his cup, already feeling a buzz, he went ahead and poured himself more. Regulus turned around to go back to his original spot and saw Sirius storming over to him.
“What the fuck are you doing?” Sirius demanded, cornering Regulus to the wall.
“Drinking,” he said, offering his cup as if it was obvious, then taking a sip.
Sirius gave him an unamused look. “That’s not what I mean and you know it. How’d you even get in here?”
“Dorcas,” Regulus said as he took another swig of his drink.
“Really?” Sirius asked, as if he was lying. “You’re being serious.”
“No, you’re Sirius,” Regulus said, shutting his mouth when he realized what he said. He held back laughter that seemed to bubble in his throat. Merlin, was he a talkative drunk.
His brother scoffed and dragged him through a door and onto a staircase. Some kids were making out nearby, and upon hearing the venom in Sirius’ voice, ditched the spot.
“Merlin, Sirius, what is with you?” Regulus pushed him off of himself.
“What are you doing?” He countered, exasperated.
“Nothing,” Regulus shrugged as he threw the rest of his drink down, feeling the burn in his throat.
Sirius ran a hand down his face in frustration. “Please, Regulus. If you’re trying to cause trouble then fuck off, but first tell me what the hell you’re doing here.”
“Well, Dorcas had a plan that I can’t tell you,” Regulus barely caught himself in spilling the fact that he was here for Potter. This is why he didn’t drink. Merlin, he needed to just shut up. “But I really actually have to talk to you.”
“Then talk to me,” Sirius said angrily. Regulus could tell that his brother didn’t want him around, but he wasn’t just going to leave.
“I know you helped Snape,” Regulus gave him a blank stare. Not angry, or bored, or anything. Absolutely blank.
Sirius’ anger depleted slightly, guilt falling over his face.
“I also know that you fucked over James,” he said, shoving a finger to Sirius’ chest accusingly.
“What did Snape do? I told him that he couldn’t hurt anyone, I told him he couldn’t,” Sirius said hurriedly. “And did you say James?” Sirius added the last part when it clicked, his expression changing.
Regulus knitted his brows together. “What? But it was, wait,” he looked up at nothing, thinking things over. “Did you do the Polyjuice thing?”
“No?” Sirius said, confusion now falling over him as well.
“Who would do that?” Regulus began thinking out loud.
“I don’t know, probably just Snivellus trying to get him in trouble,” Sirius shrugged. “You said James.”
Regulus shook his head. “Mm, no, there’s more to it. I know there is.”
“Well, I don’t know how to help you,” the Gryffindor said, leaning against the stone. “But, seriously, Reggie. ‘James’?”
Regulus brought a hand up to his face, fidgeting with his lower lip. He was becoming more and more aware of the James question and was hoping his drunken state was enough excuse for his evasion. “What if it was a teacher?”
“Why would a teacher do that?” Sirius asked.
“I don’t know,” Regulus shrugged. The idea was a reach, but he felt like he was onto something. Maybe it was the alcohol. Who the hell knew.
“We should meet up when you’re not drunk,” Sirius laughed lightly.
Regulus nodded, allowing Sirius to lead him out of the stairwell. “I can’t really think right right now, yknow?” His words held more feeling than usual, and he knew he seemed animated to others.
“How about you meet me in the library after lunch tomorrow, hm?” Sirius asked.
“Sure, I like the library, it’s quiet,” Regulus smiled, nodding.
Sirius gave him a lopsided grin, holding in laughter as the music erupted yet again. It had been muffled in the stairs, although still audible, but was much much louder out in the common room.
Regulus was let loose by his brother and walked right back over to the drink table, getting a new cup as he had ditched the last on the stairs. He refilled it, promising to himself that it’d be his last, and gulped it down in one go.
When he set the cup down and returned to the wall in which he’d been previously standing, he slumped down to the floor and watched the party. He blinked slowly, taking in the colors and the people and the fact that it was really hot in there.
Like really fucking hot.
Regulus took in a sharp breath and let it out in a sigh as he went to unbutton part of his shirt. There was some relief from the heat of the body’s in the room and the fire whiskey in his system, but not nearly enough. However, he wouldn’t dare do anything else to cool down.
A person walked over to him as he stared at the ceiling. Dorcas.
“Sorry it took me so long,” she said, out of breath. “I lost track of time.
Regulus looked up at her and just stared. A smile crept up onto his face and he started giggling. She looked so funny just standing there.
“Regulus?” She asked, crouching beside him. “Dude, are you drunk?” Dorcas asked, baffled.
“Yes ma’am,” he said dutifully as she placed a hand on his shoulder.
“Oh Merlin,” she said with surprise. “I have never seen you, Regulus Black, get drunk. Did something happen?” He could tell she was worried and wondered why.
“Nope, just felt like it today,” he shrugged.
“You’re sure nothing happened?” Dorcas asked more clearly. She sounded so funny over the music. He thought it was ABBA playing but didn’t actually know. When did he actually know anything?
Regulus nodded. “Let me watch people, please,” he said politely as he carefully moved her out of his way.
Dorcas laughed, starting with a few short breathy ones and ending in bursting laughter. “You’re something else,” she shook her head. “Will you be alright on your own?”
“Don’t worry about me,” Regulus said, waving her off. “I’m just gonna enjoy the colors. Red is actually really pretty.”
“You can keep the shirt, if you want,” she offered as she stood. He smiled and nodded, Dorcas returned the same. Regulus watched as the Slytherin girl morphed with the rest of the Gryffindors, getting lost in the crowd. She was just gone. Poof, Regulus thought.
He began humming to the music although he didn’t know it, tapping his leg. There were so many people, and it was so different from Slytherin parties. While they were fun, they were a lot quieter. The music here was so loud.
It was red, too. Slytherin was green and gray and dark and gloomy. It was sad, sometimes. But Regulus had to admit that he liked the comfort which cold stone and cool greens provided.
He peeked at the table once more. He could so easily grab another drink. But he shouldn’t. He won’t. Maybe.
It was so tempting.