Cold Hearted

The knocking at the door caused Regulus to huff, opening it with aggravation and stare at the servant who stepped back and bowed, muttering a soft “Good morning, Prince Regulus” while struggling to maintain eye contact. Regulus was still in his night wear, only having woken up and walked round his room to ride the sleep from within him while also stretching out his muscles. 

“Wake up call for Crown Prince Sirius’ coronation.” Kreacher said, making Regulus scoff while glancing over at the suit that was hung up in preparation for later that day. “It will begin at eleven.”

“Yes, thank you, Mr Kreacher.” Regulus said, making Kreacher bow before leaving, allowing Regulus to close the door and stare at the suit for a moment. He dressed quickly after showering to wake himself some more and to feel refreshed for the day ahead, the long agonising day. 

He wasn’t sure why Sirius was opening the gates when they had been closed for so long, why he had decided that he was going to let everyone in to watch the coronation or why Regulus was invited after being shut out. He wondered if anyone else was as shocked as him for the gates to be opening and Sirius allowing those who lived in the village of the Kingdom and outside Kingdoms to attend the coronation. He understood that it was Sirius’ crowning to become King of the Kingdom, and, to the Kingdom and other Kingdoms, that was something that should be celebrated by all as well as watched, but he was sure that once it was over, the gates were closing again for years.

Regulus took a deep breath while he looked in the mirror, sorting his attire. It was a white frilled dress shirt with a silver pendant at the top of the collar that he was gifted prior to his parent’s death. The black blazer he wore had silver vines detailing down the material in replacement of where the buttons should have been as well has the same detailing taking over the high collar of it. Despite wearing plain black trousers, the buckle on his belt- made with the royal silver gems- provided characteristics to the plainness to match the blazer and pendant. 

He combed through his curls that were still messy and damp from the shower, fluffing it out to emphasise his natural curls that structured the sharpness of his facial structure.

Stepping out his door, he stared at the empty door that was a few feet down the hall from him that made him realise he couldn’t remember the last time he had stepped foot within the room that he had gone in every day to beg his brother to come out and play in the snow with him. It was a lifetime ago.

Servants and maids bowed as Regulus passed, some greeting him due to the fact that they had worked for him more than others who worked within the castle. A lot of them were working, decorating the corridors as well as the ballroom in preparation for the ball that would be held after the banquet that occurred after the coronation. Regulus couldn’t remember the last time he had seen the castle decorated, he wondered if there was ever a time a banquet or ball was held before the gates closed.

“Good morning, Prince Regulus,” A maid greeted with a curtsy before he moved to allow the maid to decorate the entrance table with the Kingdom’s flowers- iris with the darkest shade of black they can naturally achieve, France’s (where the ancestors of the Black family originated from) native flower which meant nobility, chivalry and purity. “Ready for Crown Prince Sirius’ coronation, I see.” She smiles, admiring Regulus’ suit.

“Do you know when the gates will be opening?” Regulus asked, watching as the windows were being opened first.

“At ten, instructed by Crown Prince Sirius.” She answers, polishing the table.

“Right, thank you.” He says, watching her curtsy before he walks away to the ballroom.

The coronation will begin at eleven and last until three that evening in the coronation church, then the buffet will begin at four, finishing at seven where they’d be moved to the ballroom which will last until early hours of the next day. It was a long day, and it’ll all start at ten when the official gates open.

The ballroom was still being decorated, banners lifting to fill the air, the floor being waxed, tables filling the edges of the room. Five people were taking the risk of being high above at the grand chandelier which took up a great amount of space within the middle and dropping low, every inch of it needing to be dusted and shined. The room almost shined of silver. The windows to the ballroom hadn’t been opened yet due to the fact that they overlooked the village, meaning there wasn’t much lighting to fill the room.

Regulus stood and watched for a moment, how more people flitted in and out of the ballroom, more people that would normally work at the palace due to that Kreacher had called in more people for the preparation. It had been a long time since it had been busy.

On the third floor of the palace, there was a window that overlooked the sea where the boats would come in. Regulus remembered it from when he was little, he and Sirius would sit and watch as the boats to their families would sail in. It had been a long time since then. The window had closed, meaning Regulus wasn’t able to watch the waves of the sea crash against the hills outside of the village, the birds soaring over the water, some low enough that their wings would slash against the ripples. He decided that now the windows were opening, he wanted to look out the window once again, watch as the boats pulled into the dockings.

He stood on the ledge of it, feeling the summer breeze hit him as he leaned against the wall. There were many boats of different shapes, sizes and colours travelling from different sides, some closer and some just about being seen in the distance. He had learnt the crests of each kingdom, seeing how they were bright against the sails on the boats. 

One heading to the dockings was the Malfoy Kingdom, which Narcissa had married into. Another was the Prince Kingdom, however, the queen had to marry from another kingdom who wasn’t getting the throne of his own kingdom, causing the surname now to become Snape yet it remained as the ‘Prince Kingdom’. Some he wasn’t sure of, not being sure if he had seen them prior or had horribly forgotten. A ship floating closer to the bay was the Slytherin Kingdom- one of the four Kingdoms to first originate-, who Regulus’ parents were closest with, and due to its long lasting, the surname of the Kings and Queen changed but the kingdom’s name hadn’t, now meaning the King was a Riddle (Queen Merope- nee Gaunt-, who had died during childbirth, was the heir). There was also the Lestrange Kingdom (Bellatrix had married into the family), the Greengrass Kingdom (ally), the Nott Kingdom (ally) and The Flint Kingdom (somehow relaxed and ally).

Some were family, others were allies and the rest were of kingdoms who were curious of the Kingdom and the palace lockdown. He was sure that’s why everyone was travelling, not for the coronation but for answers. Why had the palace been locked away for twelve years? What were they trying to hide?

In a small (compared to the other gran boats) but large (compared to typical small boats) was the Tonks family- that lived on the other end of the island to the Kingdom’s village, so they had to sail to the mainland- which held Andromeda, his cousin, Ted, her husband, and their daughter, Nymphadora. Andromeda was the only cousin Sirius and Regulus both liked when they were much younger. Bellatrix was much older than the two of them and Narcissa was egotistic until she married and birthed her only son, Draco. Andromeda was bearable, nothing like her sisters- but that could just be middle child syndrome- and she was more than happy to play along with her much younger cousins in the snow.

Regulus got mesmerised watching the boats sail in that he didn’t realise the gates were opening until the church bell was ringing for the tenth hour, five chimes rather than its usual three to inform those in the village the gate was opening, and the creaking of the bolts on the gates echoed up towards the window.

Regulus got down from the window and made it to the main door that was wide open to display the courtyard of works who were finishing the dusting for the villagers and visiting Kingdoms to stand and view the castle. Approaching the gates, he watched as the staff opened them, Regulus’ breath catching in his throat before he stepped out once they were wide enough as well as people entering in with awe at the sight of the castle. Some bowed when they saw him and the clothes he was wearing, knowing he was of royalty.

Walking through the village, he realised he didn’t have many memories of it. His parents never took him or Sirius through the village and his bedroom overlooked the mountains which were on the other side of the castle, meaning he wasn’t able to view the village from his room. He was sure the village didn’t usually look like this, and it was only prepared for the coronation.

Stands sold baskets of fruits for people to eat, flowers for people to spread on the wall of the castle, lanterns for people to let loose when the sun would set and the moon would light the sky at the night, different beverages for throughout the day, flags, handkerchiefs and pins with the royal crest being sold at another stand. A woman was sitting on a stall under the shade of her stool to paint children’s faces to make up for the tight suits they were forced into despite not being present for the ceremony, buffet or ball. Girls were being painted as princesses, boys being painted as princes, other options being stars (Sirius’ name sake), a fancy design in the colours of the crest, the Kingdom’s flower, and much more. Everyone was preparing for Sirius’ coronation.

Regulus found himself walking along the dock where boats were still heading to or stopping to allow the passengers off. He wished he knew then to be paying attention to the path in front of him rather than the variety of boats.

He was knocked off balance, crashing into the light post that brightened the dock at night and stumbling slightly from the force of falling into it.

“Oh, I am so sorry.” A man said, grabbing Regulus to balance him once again. “I highly blame myself; my horse was only following my command.” He said, gesturing to the black horse with white spots and soft brown eyes.

That’s when Regulus noted the crest, but before he could speak, the gentleman had recognised him. “Prince Regulus.” He said, quickly bowing. “Now, I truly am sorry.”

“That’s the Slytherin Kingdom crest, on your horse.” Regulus said, not paying much attention to the man who was bowing at him.

“Yes, for I am Prince Tom Riddle.” The gentleman said, gesturing to himself, still bowing.

“And very handsome.” Regulus stupidly murmured, making Tom lift his head in question.

“Pardon?”

“And such a gentleman.” Regulus covered, shaking Tom’s hand. “And please, there’s no need to be bowing, as I am just a prince, it is my brother who you should be bowing to.” He said, finding himself letting out a nervous laugh.

“Right, Crown Prince Sirius, soon to become King.” Tom said, nodding. “Although I’ve come for his coronation, I’m more fascinated by his brother.” He teased, a smirk growing on his face.

“I’m just no one.” Regulus said, shaking his head.

“Oh, I’m sure you’re more than just a no one.” Tom said, stepping closer to Regulus, making him be filled with Riddle’s scent of smoky musk and old pages of a book.

◊◊◊

Sirius had hardly slept the past week, just about getting a few hours each night but he found he wasn’t able to fall into the depth of sleep during the night and had resulted in burying himself into the corner of his room, panicking. He was hours away from becoming King and he hadn’t left his room longer than an hour. His powers were more out of control due to his anxiety. The ice was freezing up the wall as well as out, making more than half the room become iced over. It was almost trapping him within his room.

Kreacher knocked on the door early in the morning, making Sirius jolt and clear his throat, wiping at the tears while sniffling. “Yes.” He called, having to clear his throat again when it croaked.

“Good morning, Crown Prince Sirius, reminder that your coronation will begin at eleven.” Kreacher said as Sirius tried to find the strength to finally stand up. “The gates will be opening at ten as you’ve instructed.”

“Yes, thank you, Kreacher.” Sirius said, trying to hide his sniffle.

It grew silent on the other end of the door, meaning Kreacher had gone. He wasn’t ready to officially start the day, he didn’t want today to start at all.

Sirius ran the shower, making sure it wasn’t hot nor cold, more on the nice setting to feel refreshed. He scrubbed at his body harshly, watching as it burnt red from the force, but he was too agitated to properly care for his body. Washing his hair, he dug his fingers into his roots to viciously rub the shampoo in. Then that started off his anxiety again, because he wasn’t sure what he was going to do about his hair. He wished he had got it cut so it was easier to style as well as neater and uphold his status as Crown Prince.

Once his hair curled from the summer heat, he ran his comb through it to contain it as much as he could before beginning to dress. He was dressed in his black dress pants and began to put on his white-collar shirt that tied around his neck into a bow. But before he could finally tie it, a stone hit his window, catching his attention and a few seconds later, another was thrown.

He approached the window and spotted Remus on the path below him, making him open the window and lean forwards, finding himself to smile at the sight of Remus. He noticed how he wasn’t wearing his usual attire for the harvest, and he realised that wasn’t because all working- besides village shop stands who decided to remain open (knowing they could make more money)- had been cancelled for the day in preparation for his coronation. Remus was dressed in his best dress clothes, grey puffy dress pants, cerulean blue waist coat with a grey neck scarf and a white shirt.

“Hi.” Sirius smiled, feeling his cheeks burn in a blush.

“You seem nervous.” Remus commented, despite the fact he was miles below Sirius.

“Not because of you.” Sirius quickly said, shaking his head in embarrassment. “It’s the coronation, there’s so much pressure on me and the gates are opening.” He said as Remus nodded.

“It also means I will be able to talk to you on the same level.” Remus laughed, making Sirius grunt.

“Now I’m more nervous, I’m going to have to talk to everyone.” He complains, dropping his head.

“You’ll be fine.” Remus says, watching Sirius lift his head with a face of aggravation. “And if you don’t want to talk to anyone, you’ll be the King of the Kingdom so you can do what you want.” He said, and he was right, Sirius was becoming King which meant he was in charge, and he could end a conversation if that was what he wanted.

“You remind me of the moon.” Sirius spoke, low enough that Remus still heard but it was close to a whisper.

“Oh?” Remus said, beginning to smirk. “Why is that?” He asks, Sirius blushing some more.

“Well, the star Sirius and the moon are close but never close enough, like us. And I can see the scar on your lip that is shaped like the moon when it’s crescent like it’ll be tonight.” Sirius said as Remus’ hand reached towards the scar on his lip. “I like it.” He assures Remus, who now blushed too.

“I’ll be outside the church when you get crowned.” Remus says, changing the subject away from his scar. “Hopefully there might be a moment where I would be able to see you, maybe perhaps talk, even if it’s just a sentence.” He said, smiling.

“I hope you don’t have high expectations of that happening. As much as I’d love to just be able to sit beside you and talk, I don’t think it’ll happen.” Sirius said, voice weak. He was close to beginning to cry again. “I need to finish getting ready.” He said, getting up and beginning to close the window.

“Sirius, please,” Remus said, stepping forwards, closer to the wall of the castle. “I know there’s a very high possibility of us not properly meeting, but maybe if you consider that there’s a small possibility at best we could meet, wouldn’t that make this feel more worth it?”

“It would be worth it if I could actually see you.” Sirius complained, his hand dropping from the window.

“I’ll meet you at the gates, if you decide to come out. Or I’ll stand around in the courtyard all day and night, if you decide to step outside for some air. I’ll be anywhere you want me to be.” Remus said, panting out the words. 

“Perhaps some air would be nice.” Sirius said, making Remus smile and nod his head.

“Then I’ll stand in the courtyard before you get crowned where I’ll be outside the church and I’ll be back there when the ceremony is over, for as long as you want me to be.” Remus said, his smile growing some more as Sirius began to blush and drop his face for his hair to cover his face.

“Knowing you're doing that is helping. Even if I don’t get to see you, you give me hope.” Sirius tells him, letting out a light laugh. “I really do need to continue getting ready, my ceremony to become King starts at eleven.” He said as Remus nodded.

“Why of course, Crown Prince Sirius, I mustn’t delay you. Until we meet again.” Remus smirked, jokingly bowing before watching Sirius close his window. Sirius watched as he walked back towards the village.

He continued to tie his collar into a bow and clip the family silver pendant brooch to the centre of the bow. He pulled on his black blazer where the front stopped just below his belt while the back descending down to reach at the back of his knees, decorated in silver markings down the buttons, around the collars and over the cuffs, with the Kingdom crest on the left side with the same silver markings around it. The same markings were on the shoulder pads with silver tassels hanging over the ends. He pulled on his black derby shoes and slicked his hair back in a neat ponytail, tying it with a black ribbon.

He grew nauseous looking at himself within the mirror, realising that he was now starting the journey of getting ready for the coronation. He switched his usual gloves for a pair that matched his outfit, that were specifically made for the event. They were silver and the markings were the same as his blazer. They were thicker too, he noticed, making his nerves ease slightly.

The clocks ticked closer to ten and when the clock chimed five times, and the creaking of the gates opening was heard, Sirius made his way out of his room to the window that overlooked the village. He remembers it from when he was younger, he used to say to Regulus ‘one day, we will share this village, you and me. The kings of the Black Kingdom.’ but that was then, when they were much younger. The village was packed, and more boats were still sailing in. Some wear royal robes of their kingdom while others dress similar to Remus, in their best dress clothes. This only increased his anxiety, making him feel sick as he watched some begin to descend into the courtyard while others stood around the stools buying the items on display.

Turning his head, he was met with a photo that hung above a long table, it was from his father’s coronation. He wore different robes to Sirius’, but the pendant brooch Sirius had, his father too wore. The crown on his head, silver with a green diamond in the centre, was the same that Sirius was going to receive. Orion looked similar to Sirius, the difference being his nose (Sirius and Regulus inherited their mother’s) and hairstyle, but other than that, he was much like how Sirius looks now. Orion held the sceptre and orb that were also both silver with green gems decorated into it.

On the table was a tall stand with a candle on the end and a small oval pot with scented balls inside that filled the air. Both were similar shapes and sizes to the sceptre and orb Orion held. Sirius removed his gloves and took them in hand- like what he’d have to do during his coronation-, turning round as though he was facing the guests who sat within the rows of the church. Until what he dreaded occurred, they began to ice over from where his hands were placed, spreading before he dropped them against the table and quickly pulled his gloves on.

The candle fell off the stand and the scented balls scattered across the table. Sirius took off running away from the mess, slamming the door shut on himself as he paced.

“You have to control yourself, Sirius.” He said to himself, trying to calm his breathing. “It’ll be over before you know it. Don’t let it show and you’ll be alright. Conceal it.” He said, being able to hear his father’s voice within his head.

“Conceal it, Sirius, don’t burden this family.” He could hear his father saying, torturing his mind.

He fell into the cabinet that was closest to him, causing everything to scatter around and knock to the floor, trying to catch his breath while everything rattled. His anxiety hadn’t been this bad in such a long time, it worsened how he was feeling.

“Crown Prince Sirius?” A voice called, muffled by Sirius’ inability to efficiently hear. “Is everything alright in there?” They continued to say, the words crashing together and almost being inaudible.

“Everything’s fine.” He croaked out, voice giving out on him. “I’m fine.” He whispered to himself, trying to force himself into believing the lie. 

He didn’t.

◊◊◊

By quarter to eleven, he was escorted to the church by the back route, ensuring that no one would see him which’ll cause his anxiety to increase. The church had streamers pinned up with banners with the Kingdom crest on every second pillar. The stained-glass windows shined colour into the church, making it appear less eerie than it was feeling for Sirius. In the hallway to the church was a quiet door for Sirius to enter through into an even quieter room that had one window which was to seek in the church.

He looked through the window, watching as people flooded into the church and took their seats, chatting to family, acquaintances or people they had only met today. There was a mixture of colours that filled the church, different royal robes, different styles, different kingdoms. They were all different.

Sirius was much more different.

He recognised some people entering the church. His cousins, Bellatrix and Narcissa who entered together while chatting, Narcissa with her son in her arms. He noticed the Weasley Kingdom, easily spotted for their ginger hair and already six children, a seventh soon to be expected- the only girl. The Prince Kingdom showed up and Sirius couldn’t help but sneer as Prince Severus walked in, looking distasteful. Andromeda and Ted walked in with their bundle of joy, their only child Nymphadora.

He grew sick watching everyone walk in, pacing the ground of the small room that grew smaller with each second. He quickly wiped at the sweat on his brow and looked out the window again before a guard approached and blocked the window.

Sirius knew what that meant.

“It’s time, Crown Prince Sirius.” He whispered, making Sirius swallow down the urge to be sick.

The room was between the entrance door and the door to the hall, both doors were closed allowing Sirius to exit the quaint little room with only three guards- one on the inside of the entrance door (two were stood outside) and two standing at the door to the hall to open them and stand inside, following Sirius. He pulled out the pocket watch that one of the guards had, watching as it ticked closer to eleven before handing it back while giving a nod. The bells chimed at eleven and the doors were opened as the choir began and shuffling was heard as everyone rose from their seats.

Head high, chest bold and hands clasped together, gloved tightly on, he walked with poise while trying his best to not make eye contact with any of the people in the audience. Regulus was easily noticed, standing off to the side at the altar where Sirius was to be coronated. He looked grown up, older than the age he should be, Sirius noticed, possibly because he radiated maturity. Sirius’ anxiety eased slightly.

Look at him, look at my Reggie, Sirius thought as he struggled to look away from Regulus who avoided eye contact with him, that’s my boy. He ached, feeling every second he had missed his brother come pouring back into his soul. And oh, oh, the strand of white was still there, forever there.

He looked away quickly at that, stepping up the steps to the priest who was going to crown him. He was dressed in robes that held the royal crest, the same robes that were worn when Late King Orion was crowned. He gestured his arms for everyone to take their seat before clearing his throat.

“We are gathered today for the crowning of Prince Sirius, Heir to the Black Kingdom, who will become the King in the land of Hogwarts.” He said, voice echoing through the high ceiling of the church. “Please, Crown Prince Sirius, would you recite the oath for those who stand before you to witness your crowning.”

Sirius turned to face the audience, noticing how the windows were opened enough for sound to flow out for those outside the church could listen in if they were fortunate enough. He wondered if Remus could hear him, he prayed he could.

“I solemnly promise and swear I will do justice for my Kingdom and people, to rule in peace and harmony with my allied Kingdoms and offer wisdom and strength to all. Every decision I make will be to benefit the Kingdom over myself, because that is where my responsibilities will forever lie. As representation for our Kingdom and Land, I will follow all rights and privileges that our law states to present my loyalty to our laws and to you. And I hope you follow me in my devotion to our Loud and Savour, and I will, to the utmost of my power, maintain the Laws of God and the true profession of the Gospel.” He recited, praying his voice hadn’t trembled at any point he spoke due to his gut wrenching nerves that constantly caused nausea to build inside of him. “The things which I have here before promised, I will perform and keep. So help me God.” He finished, gulping down the bile that lingered in the back of his throat.

“Thank you, Crown Prince Sirius.” The Priest bowed as Sirius turned to face him again. “Please kneel before me for the Holy Water to seal your oath to God and His oath to you as King.” 

Sirius followed the Priest to the bowl that contained the Holy Water and kneeled on the bench that was placed for that reason, his hands in front of him with his head held high. The Priest washed his hands in the water for a moment, closing his eyes as he did so. A young boy, also dressed in robes, approached forwards with the Bible, opening it on the page that had a ribboned bookmark slotted between the pages.

He cleared his throat before speaking, indicating Sirius to place his hand on the book- this he was able to do while wearing his gloves. “Crown Prince Sirius, do you promise to keep your oath to our Lord and Saviour, God?” He asked, facing Sirius.

“I do.” He says before the Priest drew a line down his forehead with the Holy Water which dripped down his skin.

“Do you promise to rule your Kingdom in favour of our Lord and Saviour, God?” He asked, Sirius swallowing to himself as he watched the Priest dip his thumb in the water again.

“I do.” Sirius said once again. The Priest draws a line across his forehead with the Holy water, causing more to drip down Sirius’ face, to make a cross.

“And, do you promise to always honour the Trinity, the Son, the Father and The Holy Spirit, as long as you may reign?” The Priest asked as he filled up a Goblet with the water.

“I do.” Sirius said once again. And with that, he leaned his head forward slightly as the Priest poured the water down his forehead.

The church was quiet, not a sound being heard throughout due to the fact that they believed this was where God would be making His claim to Sirius as King. Once the moment was over, the Priest spoke a speech that Sirius felt was muffled as he soaked in the events that had already taken place. The Priest spoke ages in favour of God.

When the speech was over, he gestured to Sirius to rise- who realised the water had dried on his skin- and return to his place as the Priest spoke another speech about the Kingdom and each royalty who had ruled before Sirius. The coronation was a long ordeal of the Priest reciting speech after speech. Hence why it was going to take four hours for the coronation to end.

The clock was ticking closer to two when the speeches were finally over. Which meant it was time for Sirius’ crowning. Sirius stood in front of the Priest who turned to hold the crown made of silver and green diamonds, with an elegant design all around. He lifted it high for the light cracking through the windows to brighten the diamonds, before lowering it carefully on top of Sirius’ head once he had bowed his head down. When Sirius lifted his head again, opening his eyes, he was met with the orb and sceptre.

He reached for them before the Priest was clearing his throat. “Your Majesty, the gloves.” He whispered, making Sirius look down at them and gulp to himself.

He took a moment to look at his hands before pulling at the fingers delicately to remove the gloves and placing them between the orb and sceptre. He took a quick shaky breath that matched the shake of his hands as he reached to take hold of the orb and sceptre. He quickly turned round, holding his breath tightly.

“As he holds the Holy properties,” The Priest began, saying the words slower as everyone rose from their seats. “And is crowned in this Holy place,” He continued as Sirius felt himself begin to tremble, trying to keep his head held high. He could feel his magic force through, the orb and sceptre beginning to freeze where his hands were like when he practised in the palace. “I present to you forward King Sirius of Hogwarts.” He finished, Sirius immediately dropping the orb and sceptre back down to pull his gloves on quickly, everyone repeating ‘King Sirius of Hogwarts’, causing it to echo out into the church and through the windows- he was sure he could hear those outside saying it too.

He turned back around- he- he-. No, that wasn’t right. He- no. Sirius didn’t like that, why didn’t he like that? Sirius felt uncomfortable at the thought all of a sudden. This is all too much. Make it stop.

◊◊◊

The buffet was a quick ordeal in Sirius’ opinion, they ate while chattering filled the room. He had Regulus beside him, but he spoke to everyone else, and Sirius wasn’t able to gain his attention- or Regulus had purposely made it that way. Andromeda was on the other side of him by his own request, with her husband and daughter next to her.

“It was incredibly unfortunate your parents closed the gates and banned us all from visiting.” Andromeda was saying, her hand on Sirius’ arm. “I do hope you weren’t lonely.”

At first, he was, but since meeting Remus, he didn’t feel lonely like he had before. “No, I’ve been alright.” He smiles at her, grimacing slightly before continuing to eat.

“Oh, Sirius, you will forever be the bravest person I’ll ever meet.” She smiled, her hand brushing his cheek lovingly.

He drowned out on conversations after that, wishing to be with Remus, who was the only person Sirius wanted to have a conversation with. Maybe the second person, actually. Regulus was first. He desperately wanted to talk to Regulus.

With the clock striking seven and plates empty, they departed from the dining room and entered the ballroom. Sirius separated himself from them all, finding an abandoned corridor where he leaned against the wall and took multiple deep breaths.

Suck it up, Sirius, you’re King now. Don’t let some little discomfort affect you. He scolded himself, shaking his head. Conceal it, don’t burden this family.

Kreacher found him a few minutes later, shaking his head unimpressed with Sirius before guiding him to the ballroom where the orchestra could be heard playing their instruments. Shoes could also be heard to indicate dancing. Kreacher opened the door for Sirius to step inside and put a hand up to stop him.

“Wait for my que.” He tells Sirius before stepping onto the platform, waiting for the song to end, which was indicated by the clapping of everyone in the room. “King Sirius of Hogwarts.” Kreacher introduced as Sirius stepped up, trying his best to remain confident as everyone bowed at his presence. “Prince Regulus of Hogwarts.” He then said as Regulus approached forwards.

He stood away from Sirius before Kreacher was pulling his forwards. “What? No. No, no.” He mumbled but was still dragged into the right place beside Sirius.

Everyone rose and began clapping at the pair before the music took up again. Regulus and Sirius stood awkwardly beside each other, but Sirius smiled to himself.

“Hi.” He said softly, turning his head slightly to face Regulus.

“Hi.” Regulus replied back, voice almost bitter. 

Sirius didn’t let it bother him, he was still smiling. “You look handsome, so grown up, so much older.” He said lightly, giving a smile that Regulus didn’t return.

“You look old.” Regulus said, before shaking his head with a grumble. “Older, you look older, too. Shit. Oh, sorry.” He said, shaking his head repeatedly at himself.

“Don’t worry, I’m not going to ground you.” Sirius laughed, dropping his head.

“Of course, right, right.” Regulus said, taking another step away from him.

“This wasn’t what I was expecting when Kreacher said I was to have a ball.” Sirius says, facing Regulus who only looked at the crowd, not paying much attention to Sirius.

“Yes, well, I expect you would have been more prepared if we hadn’t left the gates closed for so many years.” Regulus said bitterly before Kreacher was clearing his throat.

“Your Majesty, I would like to introduce you to the Heir of the Prince Kingdom, Prince Snivellus.”

“Severus.” He grunted at Kreacher, who rolled his eyes without care. “Prince Severus.” 

When they were young, Sirius used to be forced to play with Severus, because their kingdoms were allies. Sirius would call Severus ‘Snivellus’ and Kreacher would copy him because they both had a disliking for the distasteful prince. For his greasy hair that clamped together, for his nose that stuck out further than it had when he was a child, for his teeth yellow and uneven.

“Your Majesty, as my Kingdom is the only Kingdom you’re not related to that is a close ally, I thought perhaps we should reacquaint ourselves with a dance.” He said, gritting out the words to indicate that he was forced to ask. “It would be a pleasure to offer your first dance as King.” He said before bowing.

“Thank you,” Sirius said, clearing his throat. “But unfortunately, I don’t dance. Two left feet like my dear cousin.” He said, noticing Bellatrix bruise her husband in a dance.

“Oh, how unfortunate.” Severus said, taking a step back.

“Perhaps, you can share a dance with my brother. Prince to prince.” Sirius suggested, watching Regulus scowl at him.

“How fortunate.” Severus grumbled, taking Regulus’ arm and dragging him to the open floor of the ballroom where all the dancers were gathered.

Severus danced unlike anyone else. It wasn’t like he had two left feet; it was like he had two completely different feet that didn’t have a single clue on how they were supposed to dance. He kept stepping on Regulus’ toes, causing him to wince and draw them back, scowling at the older prince. Severus attempted some more advanced moves on spinning Regulus out and back in, but even then, he had almost dropped Regulus a few times and not apologised for what he was doing. Sure, Severus was to become king of his Kingdom, but Regulus, just a prince, stood higher than Severus could ever stand.

Many people stepped forwards to greet Sirius, providing their congratulations with a bow. Sirius happily spoke to some of them.

“Any names for your daughter?” Sirius asked Molly, who was smiling happily as she rubbed her bump, short of nine months.

“Ginevra, Ginny for short.” Molly said as Sirius smiled.

“A beautiful name for a beautiful girl if she looks anything like her mother.” Sirius said, making Molly blush.

“You’re too kind, Your Majesty.” She said, looking at her husband.

The Weasley Kingdom were known for being the kindest souls, loved heavily by their people.

Sirius spoke some more with Andromeda and Ted before Nymphadora was pulling at their clothes, begging to dance some more. Bellatrix and her husband, Rodolphus, had a brief conversation with Sirius, the same with Narcissa and her husband, Lucius but they were pulled away because of their son’s crying.

Regulus returned shortly after, wincing with each step he took, feeling the ache in his feet from Severus’ brutal dancing. “Of course you had to send me out there with him.” He complained, standing beside Sirius again.

“Yes, well, I don’t think I’d be able to do much as King if I have broken feet.” Sirius laughs, facing Regulus.

“God, you’d think he’d know how to dance, being the heir and all. I mean, I know how to dance, and this is the first ball I’ve been to.” Regulus complained, reaching down to sort his shoes which were flattened from Severus’ harsh feet.

“Snivellus thinks he’s all high and mighty, never much cared for reaching the perfection we were trained to portray.” Sirius explains, watching Regulus roll his eyes at him.

“Besides his rotten dancing, I wish it could be like this all the time.” Regulus whispered, looking up at Sirius whose smile dropped.

Oh no.

“I’m sorry, Reggie, but it can't.” He says softly, dropping his head as he turns away from his brother.

“Sirius, come on, you’re enjoying this too-” Regulus said, reaching for Sirius who pulled away.

“No, it just can’t.” Sirius said harshly, sighing to himself for the way he had just spoken to him.

“Fine.” Regulus says, walking away.

◊◊◊

Regulus was making his way through the collection of people until he bumped into Tom, who smiled at him and placed his glass down.

“Well, hello.” He smirked, pulling Regulus in to begin dancing to the song that the orchestra began to play.

Regulus realised he had Tom wrapped around his finger, he was a foul for Regulus and fell at his feet. He knew it was because he was the Prince of Hogwarts, which was higher than any other Kingdom’s King, meaning they were higher than the Slytherin Kingdom despite it being the longest reigning Kingdom. Tom was Regulus’ ticket to have open gates.

“You want to go somewhere quieter?” Regulus asked with a smile, biting his lip to watch Tom’s eyes drop at the motion.

“Lead the way.” Tom smirked before Regulus took his wrist and pulled him out to the balcony that overlooked the village.

Regulus lifted to sit on the railing that provided the space, patting it for Tom to sit down with him. “Do you have any siblings?” He asks once Tom was sitting, facing him.

“No, I’m an only child.” Tom answers, brushing his suit down.

“Lucky you.” Regulus said, looking down at his lap before Tom lifted his head.

“Not happy with your brother?” He asks with pity as Regulus sighs.

“This is the first time in twelve years that I’m seeing him.” Regulus confesses, watching Tom pull back a little. “He keeps shutting me out, all these years.”

“Oh, Regulus, how could anyone shut you out?” Tom says, brushing his thumb across his cheek.

“So, the Heir of Slytherin?” Regulus smirks, changing the subject as Tom lets out a light laugh.

“Oh, please, nothing is more grand than being the Heir of Hogwarts.” Tom says, shifting closer to Regulus. “I think the Heir of Slytherin is just under the Heir of Hogwarts but with a big gap.”

“If it weren’t for Hogwarts, you’d be the Grand King.” Regulus says, giving Tom a smile, stroking his ego.

“Yes, I would be, indeed.” Tom said, turning round to look at the village. “But, enough about our Kingdoms, tell me about yourself.” He urged on, making Regulus shake his head.

“I fear I have nothing to speak of.” He responded, watching Tom notice the strand of white that stained his hair.

“What’s this?” Tom asked, his fingers brushing over it, delicately.

“It’s been there since I was born, I don’t know what it is. Nor did my parents.” Regulus says, dropping his head as Tom did the same.

“My condolences, for your parents. We all heard. Rather unfortunate that allied kingdoms weren’t able to attend the funeral.” Tom says with his hand on Regulus’ thigh.

“It was by their requests that outside kingdoms weren’t to attend.” Regulus replied, eyeing Tom’s hand that was brushing at his thigh.

They spoke for what felt like a lifetime, talking about anything that came into the topics that flowed. Tom kept looking at him in a certain way, like he was seeing a future with Regulus that Regulus wasn’t seeing.

“Can I say something crazy?” He asked, cutting off the sentence Regulus was starting to say.

“Yeah, sure.” Regulus nodded, smiling at how different Tom was to the other people that filled the ballroom.

“Will you marry me?” He asked, jumping down from the railing to kneel in front of Regulus who slowly slid off the railing as well.

“Can I say something even crazier?” He laughed, shaking his head. “Yes!”

◊◊◊

“And then, mummy said that I can marry any prince or princess that I want.” Nymphadora was saying, standing on the tip of Sirius’ feet as they moved to the music.

“You’ll be a complete heartbreaker, you’ve got your mother’s grace and beauty, and your father’s elegance and handsome features.” Sirius says, making Nymphadora giggle happily.

“I wish I was pretty like you.” She pouts, staring up at him.

“Why wish to be like me when you’re beautiful the way you are?” He tells her, spinning them round.

“Sirius! King Sirius, I mean.” Regulus calls over, causing Sirius to step Nymphadora off his feet, watching her run to her father to force him to dance with her.

“Reg?”

“Hi, I want to introduce you to Prince Tom Riddle of Slytherin.” Regulus says, pulling Tom closer beside him.

“King Sirius, it’s a pleasure.” Tom bows as Sirius nods.

“Heir of Slytherin, correct?” Sirius asks, this time Tom nods.

“Yes, your Majesty.” Tom replies.

“How did you meet?” Sirius asks, Regulus waving his hand at him.

“That doesn’t matter.” Regulus says, shaking his head. “Well, we’re here for your blessing.”

“Blessing?” Sirius questions, looking between the two.

“For our marriage!” They both say, making Sirius take a step back, confusion growing on his face.

“Marriage?” He questions, blinking rapidly as he looks between the two as they both nod. “What?”

“Well, all the details aren’t set out just yet. We have to plan the ceremony, the food, and the guest list. We’d rule together!” Regulus said, smiling happily at Tom who returned the smile.

“Wait, what? No.” Sirius said, but they weren’t listening.

“And we could visit here all the time!” Regulus said, being encouraged by Tom. “And my family could visit!”

“Reggie, slow down.” Sirius snaps, catching Regulus’ attention. “No one is getting married.”

“What do you mean?” Regulus asks, staring unhappily at Sirius.

“Can I talk to you alone, in private? Please?” Sirius asks, whispering the words to Regulus.

“That’s not necessary. You can say what you say in front of Tom.” He says, lifting his chin.

“You can’t marry a man you just met, Reg.” Sirius says, standing his ground on the matter.

“You can if it’s true love!”

“Reggie, come on, you know nothing about true love.”

“And what? You do? All you know is how to shut people out!” Regulus snaps, making Sirius stumble backwards a little, like the words caused a physical impact.

“I’m not giving you my blessing. Not for a marriage that is ridiculous. You hardly know him!” Sirius says, stepping forwards again.

“I know him better than I know you.” Regulus says and that was the last straw Sirius was going to take.

“I think you should go.” Sirius says to Tom as he walks to Alastar, one of the guards. “The party’s over. Close the gates.” He tells him Alastar nodding with a “yes, sire” before he walked off to alert the other guards and servants.

“No!” Regulus says, grabbing Sirius’ hand and pulling the glove off. “You can’t close the gates!”

“Give me my glove, Reg.” Sirius says but Regulus shakes his head.

“I don’t want to live behind closed gates anymore, Sirius!” Regulus shouts as the music dies down and everyone turns to face them. “I won’t!” He shouts, Sirius sighing.

“Then go! Leave!” Sirius says, stepping backwards.

“What did I ever do to you? You’ve shut me out for twelve years and then tell me to leave! Why?” Regulus asks, shouting across the hall at his brother.

“Enough, Reg, cut it out.” Sirius tells him, infuriating Regulus more.

“No! Tell me, Sirius! Why did you lock me out? Lock the world out? You're afraid, and of what?!” Regulus shouts, making Sirius shake his head to himself.

“I said enough!” Sirius shouts, turning to face Regulus. Ice shot from his hand as he spun, causing sharp spikes to face the direction of those in the ballroom, making them all step back with gasps. Sirius felt sick at the sight of it, looking up at Regulus whose face was full of shock.

“Sorcery! You’ve all seen it!” Severus shouts, looking around at the people around him and his guards.

Sirius shakes his head, forcing the doors open and stumbling out of the main castle doors to be met with a courtyard full of villagers who cheered happily at the sight of him. They all bowed, clapped and cheered his name.

“Long live the King!” They shouted as Sirius shook his head, stumbling down the steps.

“King Sirius.” One bowed when Sirius got close to them, making him back away quickly. “Your Majesty.” Another bowed, causing Sirius’ anxiety to increase as he grabbed his gloveless hand.

“Sirius,” A voice whispered, and he knew exactly who it was, he wished it wasn’t him. He turned his head to see Remus, right beside him, far too close. “Are you alright?” He asked, reaching his hand out, but Sirius threw himself away from the hand and fell into the fountain, his bare hand pressing into causing it to freeze over in a sharp matter like the ice inside the ballroom.

Everyone gasps as Sirius lifts up and stares at it with shame and guilt. Severus comes running out with his guards, shouting ‘monster!’ repeated at Sirius who shook his head.

“Please, I don’t mean harm! Just stay away!” Sirius pleads, his anxiety causing ice to aim in the direction of Severus who throws himself backwards.

“Stop him!” Severus shouts as Sirius looks around at everyone who stepped away from him in fear.

Remus didn’t step back.

Sirius watches as snow falls around him before seeing Regulus come rushing out the castle, shoving past Severus who stood in the way. He still had Sirius’ glove in his hand, clutching to it tightly.

“Sirius!” He calls out, sliding on the ice but not letting it stop him as he runs towards Sirius who shook his head at him. “Please, Sirius!” He calls when Sirius begins to run off to the water edge through the gates in the direction he knew best. “Sirius, wait!” 

Sirius stops, turning round to see Regulus catching up to him, causing him to keep taking steps backwards before feeling the ground freeze over into the fjord. The water froze and spread with each step Sirius took. He turned around, watching the water freeze more at where he stood, allowing him to run across the fjord that froze in his steed.

He hadn’t felt this free in his life.

No, that wasn’t right.

They haven't felt this free in their life.

Yes, that was it.