Chapter 2: An Old Friend

September 1, 1981

The past three years had been a blur to Regulus. His memory came and went; sometimes he didn't remember a week ago or an hour ago. Memories from the Cave would invade his mind and the pain would come back. He felt like he was going mad. Regulus hadn't been back home, or even London, since the Cave. The Death Eaters would surely be looking for him back in London or in high wizard populated areas and Voldemort himself will want to kill him. Plus, everyone he knew thought he was dead, how would he ever explain what happened to him. He surely didn't want to get telling everyone about Voldemort's Horcruxes.

In fact, Regulus hadn't been in contact with any wizards for the past few years. He spent his time traveling across England; traveling from town to town, disguising himself as a Muggle. Being exceptionally brilliant at charms, Regulus could charm his hair, eyes, nose, and any other facial feature to look different. No one would recognize him as a Death Eater.

During his travels, Regulus thought a lot about possible Horcruxes and hiding spots. He'd assumed that the Horcruxes would mean something to the Dark Lord and wouldn't be some random objects. However, he didn't know a lot about the Dark Lord besides his goals, cruelness, and his name was Tom Riddle before Voldemort. The locket must've had some meaning to be a Horcrux, perhaps it was a family heirloom. Regulus couldn't think of four -or possible more by now- objects that could have some meaning to the Dark Lord to be Horcruxes.

As the day went on, Regulus was beginning to notice strange things, not strange to him but strange to see in Muggle areas, and he noticed people pointing them out. Regulus was just a little out of a Muggle town when he noticed lots of owls flying in each direction. Muggles were all excitedly pointing them out thinking it was some sort of bird miracle. Regulus found some of their remarks highly amusing. He even noticed quite a few wizards and witches in the town. Regulus knew that they were magical because of their robes or they were wearing their Muggle clothing wrong. One man was wearing pajama pants and a women's blouse.

Regulus continued down main street looking for a place to get some food when he heard a group of witches and wizards mention 'the Potters', 'Voldemort', and some even said 'The Boy Who Lived'. Potter? Regulus thought to himself, they couldn't surely mean James Potter. James Potter was Sirius's best friend and probably thought of him more as a brother than Regulus. He remembered them being inseparable at Hogwarts and how they'd always play pranks on Severus Snape and even their cousins, Bellatrix and Narcissa. Why were the Potters so important?

"Even the Muggles should be celebrating," a young wizard shouted. Many of the Muggles gave him a weird look, but continued walking. Unable to control his curiosity, Regulus approached the man as he continued to shout excitedly with his friends.

Regulus cleared his throat, "Why should we be celebrating?"

"Because the most evil, dark wizard is gone!" he exclaimed, as it were a joke.

One of the girls in the group nudged him hard in the ribs, "Shush John, he's a Muggle!" she snapped at him quietly.

"So what? He should be celebrating!"

Regulus was quite impressed with himself that his disguising charms worked, they actually thought he was a Muggle and not a Death Eater. "I'm not a Muggle." Regulus pulled his wand out for a split second as proof and quickly slipped it back into his pocket.

"Oh!" The man named John was somewhat shocked. Regulus wasn't sure if it was because he had no idea what was going on or that he was actually a wizard. "Did you not see the Prophet this morning?" John lowered his voice significantly. Regulus shook his head. "He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named died last night!"

Regulus knew he couldn't have died, he had the Horcruxes. Unless Kretcher destroyed the locket and the rest of them he supposedly made, which he doubted. "Wow! That's great!" He tried to act excited, but he knew only his body was destroyed, he'd surely come back one day.

"I know!" John said once again in a loud voice. The other three he was with all agreed and nodded their heads.

"How though?" Regulus was intrigued how the Dark Lord had his body destroyed.

"No one knows. Apparently he went to Godric's Hallow to kill the Potters and he died when trying to kill their son- what was his name? Like Harold or something?" said the girl with the short brown hair, the same one who nudged John.

"It was Harry, Jess," the other girl answered, "Harry Potter, The Boy Who Lived"

Regulus never knew that the Potters had a son, but then again, he couldn't remember what happened two days ago because of that bloody potion. "What of James and Lily?"

The four of them quietly looked at their shoes sadly, "they died," replied John in a hushed voice.

Regulus felt terrible. They were such good people and war heroes, and even had a new son. Regulus even felt bad for Sirius, he was probably crushed. Sirius never took death well; he could only imagine what he was going through when his 'favorite brother' died. Well, maybe he did take Regulus's 'death' okay since he was a Death Eater.

There was an awkward silence between the friends and Regulus. "Thanks, uh, I better go," said Regulus quickly and speed walked in the opposite direction. John and his friends continued on with their celebrating. Regulus hurried past the busy road and out of town. He desperately wanted more answers, but where would he go? Regulus wasn't sure if he wanted to see Sirius just yet and explain himself and his old Death Eater friends were out of question. They all probably hated Regulus or they were now in hiding from the recent events. Who was he supposed to ask?

Regulus was now becoming anxious, he had no idea what to do; all he wanted was someone to talk to. More specifically, a person who also knew Tom Riddle well, well enough to perhaps recalled objects that he held dear too. Dumbledore was the first person he thought of. Albus Dumbledore was the transfiguration teacher when Tom was at Hogwarts, so he had to know something; plus he was the only person the Dark Lord feared. However, Dumbledore was probably busy at the moment with the new term at Hogwarts starting and with the fall of the Dark Lord. Also, Regulus wasn't sure how Dumbledore would react when a former Death Eater standing in his office. Dumbledore was known for second chances, but he wasn't sure if that was the case for Death Eaters.

Once Regulus thought for another minute or two, the person couldn't have been more obvious; the same person who was a friend and teacher to Regulus, the person who was always there for him at Hogwarts. Professor Horace Slughorn. Slughorn had taught Tom Riddle while he was at Hogwarts and was close to him, just like how he was with Regulus. He knew that Tom was part of the Slug Club; he remembered the pictures of him on the back of Slughorn's shelves of students. Regulus would go to Professor Slughorn when he was upset or just wanted to have a friendly conversation. However, Professor Slughorn became a little more distant to Regulus once he found out he was a Death Eater. Slughorn might've been close to Tom, but never joined him, for obvious reasons now that Regulus thought about it; Slughorn saw Tom for what he really was. Regulus concluded that Horace Slughorn knew something about Tom most didn't. Could he possible know about the Horcruxes?

Knowing that the new term of Hogwarts was starting and it was a couple hours before the Hogwarts Express would arrive in Hogsmeade, there could only be one place where Horace Slughorn could be: The Three Broomsticks. The only problem though was Regulus wasn't sure how he was going to get there. He'd hadn't be able to apparate since the Cave or perform any advanced magic since then. There was the possibly of flying by broomstick, but he wasn't sure where he find one, and preferably didn't want to steal one. The Floo Network was a possibility too, but didn't know where to find a fireplace that was attached to the Network.

Regulus was frustrated about not being able to find a way to Hogsmeade, out of pure spite; he kicked a small stone on the path, but only ended up stubbing his toe and cursed underneath his breath. He knew he had to get to Hogsmeade; it was his only chance to talk to someone who'd understand him. It might even be his only chance for a while now too since term was starting. Regulus continued down the path to where the river met the edge of the forest. He squatted down and cupped his hands to take a drink of water. Then, a reflection caught his eye from the water.

There were a heard of horse-like creatures. They were dark skinned and very bony, even a little scary looking. "Thestrals," Regulus whispered underneath his breath. Thestrals were large, winged creatures that could be used as an alternative for broomsticks. Regulus never saw one before- they were only able to be seen by those who have seen death- but he saw pictures of them before and knew that these creatures had to be Thestrals. He'd seen plenty die at the hands of the Dark Lord, so that's probably why he can see them now. Regulus thought that this was his chance to get to Hogsmeade. Thestrals were considered dangerous by the Ministry of Magic, but Regulus had to try and mount it, he just had to.

Regulus crossed the river to where the Thestrals stood. There was one Thestral that stood by itself, drinking from the river. Regulus walked over slowly to that one, with his hand outstretched, hoping the creature would accept his friendly gesture. However, the Thestral kept drinking, not noticing Regulus at all. He didn't want to get too close, just in case it startled the Thestral. Regulus kept inching forward, until the Thestral looked up and stared right into Regulus's grey eyes. It didn't seem to be too started since it stayed where it was. Regulus continued to inch forward, while the Thestral stared at him. "Easy now," Regulus told the Thestral, trying not to scare it.

Surprisingly, the Thestral was okay with him being so close; the creature allowed Regulus to pat him. After a few moments, Regulus tried to climb up onto the creatures back, but the Thestral abruptly took a few quick steps back, giving a warning noise. Regulus had to hurry if he wanted to get Hogsmeade before the Hogwarts students did, so he decided that he had to confuse the Thestral to let him on its back. He took out his wand and muttered, "Confundus." The Thestral stood still again giving Regulus enough time to hop onto his back. Regulus waved his wand at the Thestral's skin to give him a little kick, and the Thestral broke into a run. The creature opened his wings and lifted its hooves off the ground. Regulus and the Thestral flew up into the sky. It was an amazing feeling to be flying high up in the sky, Regulus felt so free and lively. He laughed with joy; it was his first time he laughed in ages.

After flying north about an hour, Regulus and the Thestral arrived at the edge of Hogsmeade village. Before going into the village, Regulus took off his appearance charms- he was sure people here were too busy celebrating to realize he was a former Death Eater- and pulled his cloak over his head. He let the Thestral roam around by the forest and promised him we would bring back some sort of treat. Regulus walked down the little dirt path that lead into the village. He was of course correct, the village was packed with people celebrating and drinking at the Hog's Head and The Three Broomsticks. Children were even celebrating by buying tons of sweets from Honeydukes and playing pranks on their parents with Zonko Products. Regulus smiled to himself, seeing all these families celebrating that the fact the darkest wizard of all time is gone and that they no longer had to fear- until he returned of course.

Regulus reached The Three Broomsticks and pushed open the wooden door to see all sorts of people there. And unsurprisingly, Professor Horace Slughorn was standing at the bar drinking a tall glass of Firewhiskey. Slughorn was talking to Madam Rosmerta about his holiday in France. The Three Broomsticks was unbelievably crowed today, perhaps from everyone celebrating the fall of the Dark Lord. Now, Regulus just had to get Slughorn alone and they could talk in the far corner, where no one was. Luckily for his sake, a fight broke out on the other side of the pub, so Madam Rosmerta had to go sort out the issue, leaving Professor Slughorn.

Slughorn continued to drink at the bar, when Regulus went behind him to tap him on the shoulder. "Yes, yes?" The professor put down his drink and turned to face the person.

"Hello, professor, I don't know if you-," said Regulus in a low voice, but was suddenly cut off by Slughorn's booming voice.

"Merlin's beard! Regulus, my boy!" Slughorn stood up and patted Regulus on the back. "How've you been?"

"I'm fine," which was easily a lie. "I just wanted to-."

"Still playing Quidditch? I'd thought you'd be playing for England now, eh? How come you haven't sent tickets?"

"Er, no, sir I actually don't play anymore," Regulus replied awkwardly, avoiding Slughorn's eye. He'd always told Regulus to play professionally; however, times were different then. Sometimes he did wish he took that path. He was an excellent seeker and did miss playing sometimes.

"Oh, what a shame, you had talent, Regulus, that you did," Slughorn took another swing at his drink. "You know, I could've sworn that the Daily Prophet said you had died."

"Well, professor, that's what I kind of wanted to talk to you about. Mind if we perhaps move to the back?"

Slughorn shrugged his shoulders, "Sure, my boy," He got up and followed Regulus to a table at the way back. Once they got there, Slughorn's face suddenly fell, "Your still…one of them aren't you?" His expression turned from friendly, to disappointed.

"No, professor! I actually defected three years ago. So what you read in the Prophet was probably right. Everyone thought I'd died."

"Okay, good, I'd hate to report you to the Ministry. I heard they have rounded up a dozen Death Eaters already!" Horace exclaimed, once again in a good mood.

"So, the rumors are true then. Voldemort died," Regulus studied the old professor's face, looking for some sort of clue that he knew something.

"Well, that's why everyone is celebrating!" Slughorn gave a loud laugh and took another drink of his Firewhiskey.

Regulus just stared at him, trying to figure out how he was going to get his information. "You knew Voldemort, didn't you?" Regulus hated saying his name; he'd preferred 'Dark Lord' much more. "You taught him potions, right? I remember seeing a photo of him on your shelf."

Slughorn looked like he'd be petrified; he didn't know what to say, he just stared at the table. "Y-yes I did," Slughorn said lamely. "I assure you, he was quite a different person then."

"Do you think he will return one day?"

Slughorn still didn't look into Regulus's eyes, "Nonsense!"

"Actually, professor, I'm afraid he will," Regulus took a deep breath, "He has Horcruxes."

Slughorn dropped his glass and it shattered once it hit the floor. He then lifted his head a little to look at his former student. "How did you find out?" His voice has barely a whisperer.

"So you did know!" Regulus felt quite smug, finding out that he was right; Horace Slughorn did indeed know something. Slughorn didn't say anything back. "Well, professor, let me start from the beginning." Regulus told him about over hearing the Dark Lord's conversation with fellow Death Eaters, how he was beginning to dislike him and his beliefs, how he took Kretcher to that cave, and how he himself went to the cave and retrieved the locket. "How do you know about the Horcruxes?" he added.

An old, tired, miserable face fell upon the professor and he let out a deep sigh. "Tom came to me one evening, after one of my dinner parties, and asked about them. He asked me if they were real and how they were made. I thought it was only for academic purposes of course, but… well, I was wrong." Slughorn was speaking in a very nervous, monotone voice. It must be hard for him to divulge his information he had on Riddle.

"It's alright professors; I just need information on Tom Riddle to help me find other Horcruxes." Slughorn nodded. "Are there any objects that Tom held a liking to?"

Slughorn sighed, thinking for a minute. Regulus wasn't sure if he would respond or not. "After that conversation we had in my office, he seemed to carry a journal-perhaps it was a dairy- around a lot. This of course was all happening when the Chamber of Secrets was supposedly open." Regulus was about to say something, but Slughorn continued. "There was a ring he always wore too. Tom always had it on."

A journal and a ring, Regulus thought this was going fairly well, he didn't expect Slughorn to know-or think- of any possible objects. "Were there any places he was attached to?"

"He loved Hogwarts, he'd always complain about the summer holidays. You see, he lived in an orphanage, he much preferred living at Hogwarts." Regulus didn't think any Horcruxes could be at Hogwarts. Dumbledore would probably find out if a dark object like a Horcrux was in the castle.

"Any other places?"

Slughorn shock his head, "not that I know of."

Regulus wasn't sure what he wanted to say next. He found out two things, there were a journal-or a dairy- and a ring. Regulus found out more than what he was expecting, he didn't know if he'd find out anything. "Thank you, professor. Your information has been very helpful." Regulus stood up from his seat. "I'll leave you to your drink."

Slughorn got up too, "Your very welcome, Regulus. However, I must get going too, the students shall be arriving soon. Here, I'll walk you out." Before Regulus went out, he cast his disguise charms back on. Both Regulus and Slughorn walked silently out the door, into the cool September evening. They strolled up the road, to the end of the village. Slughorn broke the silence this time. "I'm sorry about your father, Orion. I knew him at whilst at Hogwarts."

Regulus turned surprisingly at Slughorn, "My father?"

"You didn't know? He died shortly after your 'death.'"

Perhaps Regulus did find that out, but forgot since his memory was especially foggy then. His heart sank. Regulus felt bad, he never had a chance to say goodbye. The last time he said anything to him was the night before he left, if you don't count the note he'd left. "How'd he die?"

"I believe it was overdose on alcohol, something like that." Slughorn again looked sad for a moment or two, but quickly shock it off. "So, where will you be heading?"

Regulus shrugged, "I've heard there was a cave up on the mountain side."

There was now a look of disbelief on Slughorn's face. "Caves? That's where you've been living?"

"No, not all the time. Ever since the Horcrux cave, I haven't been too keen about caves." Regulus chuckled a little to himself.

Slughorn thought for a moment, "Well, if your there, I might as well send you some supplies, yes?"

"No, that's alright, professor. I can scrap things up for myself."

Slughorn ignored him, "I can send you some food, Essence of Dittany… anything else? Oh, I know. You said you were having difficulties of performing more advance magic, no? I just might have a potion that could make you stronger with your magic."

"Please, professor, you don't have to do any of that." Regulus might be a little home sick and lonely, but he didn't want anyone to dote over him.

"Nonsense, it won't be a problem. I'll send the owl tomorrow." Regulus gave up, when Horace Slughorn had his mind made, that's what it would be.

"Thanks a lot then, professor. Not just for the supplies, but for information on Tom Riddle." Slughorn flinched a little, but smiled at Regulus.

"Anything for my favorite student," he gave a warming smile, the ones Regulus remembered from their talks at Hogwarts. Soon, both of them parted ways once again. Slughorn had to head back up to the Hogwarts for the Sorting and welcoming feast. Regulus went in the opposite direction that leads towards the cave up on the mountain side.

As he walked, he thought a lot about the Horcruxes. His two best leads were some sort of journal and the other was a ring. But where would he possibly start. One thing was for sure, he was going to need help on his quest. Regulus decided it was best not to think about it for now. He had to look for that rumored cave.

Once he reached the outside of town, he spotted an owl with the Evening Prophet. He waved the owl over, and it landed on his arm. Regulus digged for five Knuts in his pocket and he placed it into the owl's pouch. He made a mental note to send an owl to retrieve more gold from the Black vault.

Regulus unfolded the paper, and the front line blinked in front of him: Sirius Black, Mass Murderer. He froze in his footsteps and nearly dropped the paper. This had to be a joke, it had to be. Sirius Black, Gryffindor, member of The Order of the Phoenix, a murderer? There was picture of Sirius on the front, screaming, trying to break loose of the two Hit-Wizards grip on him. He looked absolutely mad. Regulus continued down to the article:

Last evening, shortly after the death of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, Death Eater Sirius Black was found at the scene of the crime where the whole a Muggle street was blown up. Twelve Muggles were killed and one wizard, Peter Pettigrew. Pettigrew was a friend of Black's and the Potter's, it has been confirmed Black was indeed the Secret Keeper of the Potters while in hiding and had let He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named know the location of the Potters. Pettigrew went after Black to revenge the Potters but failed. When Black blow up the Muggle street, all that was left of Pettigrew was his finger. Just after, Hit-Wizards appeared on the scene to find Black laughing madly on his knees. Black had been taking straight to Azkaban. The Head of the Auror Office refuses to comment on the case at this point. More information on the current event will follow in the morning addition to the Daily Prophet.

No way in hell was Sirius a murderer-or even a Death Eater. Regulus would call Sirius the exact opposite. Regulus knew how close he'd been with his friends, James and Lily Potter, Remus Lupin, and Peter Pettigrew. There was more to this story than the Daily Prophet says. Perhaps the Aurors in the Order could help sort this out. Or maybe Lupin could convince them that Sirius was innocent.

Regulus thought that it was weird that all they could only find Pettigrew's finger. What spell could possibly explode an entire person into oblivion? None that Sirius would know, he was never one to read books on dark magic.

One thing was for sure; Regulus's quest for hunting Horcruxes had to be put on hold. He had to get Sirius free. Sirius was the only one that could help him, or would want to help him. Breaking into Azkaban to free his brother was now his number one priority.

A/N: Sorry, this chapter took longer for me to write then I anticipated. I'm not overly happy how this chapter turned out; hopefully everyone will think it's alright. Thanks to everyone who favorite/followed/reviewed! :)