A/N: Wao long time...I am really sorry for the long break...It has been a while since I looked at this story so this chapter feels a bit disjointed to me. I might have forgotten a few of the story points... but I started writing again and wanted to post it... So expect a lot of mistakes... My reasons for the delay in the end, if anyone wants to know. :)

Chapter 36:

Rabastan Lestrange was checking the ward of the old Parkinson estate. The man was a miser of the biggest proportions, and made Rabastan's life very difficult. Everything had to be perfect or not a penny, miserable old bastard.

He was just checking the old runic pattern when he let out a gasp, his wand falling, as he clutched his left arm and bought it to his chest. He struggled to breathe through the pain, vein pulsing in his neck. His Lord was very angry. An image of Malfoy manor passed through his head, and a message. "Bring Black"

Rabastan did not know what happened, or what he was about to go into; he trusted his Lord with his life, not really his love life; still it was best not to say anything.

He picked up his wand when the pain diminished, the lingering burn reminding him to be quick. Knowing his mark was no longer invisible he apparated to Grimmauld place. He guessed Sirius's love for him was about to be tested.

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Fenrir Greyback lay on the grass, in a clearing, at the Black Cottage, enjoying the warmth of the sun as if fell across his face and chest. A smirk curled at his lips and his body heated up as a pair of amber eyes ran across his gleaming chest.

Lupin was sitting under the tree stump at the end of the clearing, teaching the young cubs. Every few minutes he would feel Lupin's eyes on him, heating his system, before they went back to the students. Lupin was weakening, soon….

The last five years had been for good for Lupin. He had filled out, there was a flush to his cheeks and his eyes glowed as they had never before. The wolf was finally calm. It had not been easy. He sometimes thought convincing Dumbledore would have been easier.

He had taken Remus away from England and shown him how different packs lived around the world. Then they had to work on integrating Remus in Greyback's pack, which had grown exponentially in the last few years. Integration had not been easy. Remus had never run with a wolf pack before, there was a hierarchy, and while everyone knew Remus was not to be harmed, the wolves did not just give their respect. It had to be earned.

He still remembered the first run. Remembered the wary, intelligent eyes full of strength and a deep sadness that made him want to howl, and he followed his instinct. The wolf had panicked and run. He felt blood course through his veins at the memory. Heat licked at his nerves as he remembered pushing the wolf-

"Just what are you thinking about!" the voice startled him, "You are scaring the children!"

He turned to look at a glaring Lupin and licked his lips at the image the other presented. Hands on his hips, cheeks flushed with anger, eyes bright with suspicion and hostility; the same eyes that held the ever present kindness that had stolen his heart. He smiled, showing a glimpse of teeth. The warning that appeared in the other's eyes made him want to pounce on the slighter man.

His expressions must have been telling as a blush spread across Remus's cheeks and the children started howling with laughter, causing Lupin to snap at them,

"Back to your studies! I have a test for you today"

He ignored the children's moaning as he turned his ire on Fenrir, "And you, Behave yourself!"

Fenrir just grinned and opened his mouth to retort when a silver mist caught his attention. It came in front of him and the gleaming patronus turned into a cat which licked its paws before falling on its knees, the voice of Narcissa Mafloy coming from it, "You need to come to the manor. He wants to see everyone. Bring Lupin"

The surprised look on Fenrir's face vanished, panic taking its place. Lupin was not ready to meet the Dark Lord. This was not the plan.

He took a look at the frown on Lupin's face and felt his heart constrict, he did not want to lose him. The patronus disappeared with its final message, "It's just the inner ones. And be quick, it is urgent."

Fenrir swallowed at the nerves in this belly. He did not know whether to fear the Dark Lord or Lupin. This was not good. Damn it!

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Evan Rosier sat in his office, twirling a quill in his fingers as the defendant argued against taking the case to the Wizengmot. The lawyer was susceptible to bribes. Evan smirked and withheld his glee at the fear that he sensed in the other man, weakling.

The freezing of the quill and the twitch in his jaw were the only hints to the pain that had erupted in his left arm.

The defendant stopped with his argument when those dark eyes froze. He waited to hear what had offended Mr. Rosier.

Mr. Rosier let out a breath and rose from his chair. He packed his suitcase and left. The defendant was left looking at the door, jaw agape, when the nervous secretary came in, "Mr. Evans has business that he needs to look at. He has asked me to re-arrange your meeting"

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The crashing of a glass bought Crouch. Sr running to the kitchen just in time to see his son wave his wand at the glass. He thought he saw a brightening of the mark on his skin. His son came to him and hugged him, he stayed frozen.

Ignore this incident. It was me just being clumsy. Ignore the people moving around and any reports that may claim of dark activities taking place in the UK.

Crouch Sr shook his head at the strange feeling that had come over him. He looked at the spilt water on the ground and turned to glare at his son, "Do you ever learn?! You always were useless. Clean this mess up!"

Barty Crouch Jr watched his father leave, triumph in his eyes. How he loved to have dear daddy under his control. He looked at the spilt water and rubbed his mark that had burnt brighter than ever before. The Dark Lord was mad. Something had happened.

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The room was shrouded in darkness, candles lightening the area around. In the centre of the huge room was a bed covered in silk. The bed took over thrice the space. The rustling of the sheets along with sounds of moans and screams could be heard.

Regulus watched the neck strain in front of him, the vein pulsing. He licked his lips and arched his back as the man behind him, bit into his own neck, scraping the skin.

"Bite him Regulus"

Regulus needed no other encouragement and bit into the straining throat, his sharp teeth easily piercing the skin as they embedded deep. He let the ambrosia enter his mouth as he sucked the life away from the muggle beneath him.

He took too long to notice the burning in his arm. His meal was interrupted by the fire that spread through him, causing him to tear him mouth away from the neck and falling on the bed, arching his back and withholding the scream that wanted to erupt.

Nero watched as Regulus fell on the bed, the muggle falling over, neck bleeding. His attention though was ensnared by Regulus who had grabbed hold of his left arm, where the skin seemed to come alive. He could see it moving and writhing as something tried to come to the front and the skill and the snake burnt black against the pale skin of the vampire. Nero licked his lips, he had not expected to see another's mark on Regulus as hot, but this he could accept.

He threw the now dead muggle on the ground, crawling towards Regulus, when the other slumped into the bed, "We-we don't" Regulus tried to get out through his gasps, "Don't have time….. The Dark Lord wants us at Malfoy manor now"

Regulus did not wait for a reply as he jumped from the bed and raced to the bathroom to clean himself up. Had Nero not had a reputation of being an elder, he would have scowled at the missed opportunity. He raised his shoulder on the headboard and watched as Regulus blurred by, getting things in order.

Regulus came in the room, fresh and scowled at him, rushing to get ready, "He wants you too and hurry. He is very angry. More than I have ever felt."

Nero nodded, realising the seriousness of the occasion and got up to get clean and ready. It seemed like something had the Dark Lord attention.

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Rodolphus watched as Bella and Neville planted the new flower they had found. Neville was a sweet boy with the greenest thumb he had ever seen. It had been hard on the kid without his parents. They had hired a mind healer to talk to the boy to find if the whole incident had any detrimental effect on him. The healer had assured them that the boy was fine, just a little scared of the grandmother, which they had looked into to help him get over his fears.

Bella had taken Neville in, but never once let the boy forget his real parents. They made sure the boy knew that the bad men sent by an even worse man had been responsible for his parent's death. Neville had promised revenge; which was Bella's special area of expertise.

The burn that spread through him shocked him from his thoughts, the gasp from Bella telling him that it was both ways. The both held on when the burn kept increasing rather than going away.

Bella looked at a worried Neville, "It's okay Neville. You remember the nice man I told you about who helped us, well he needs our help now. We have to go to Uncle Lucius's house"

Neville looked scared but nodded. Slowly he relaxed as he saw Aunty Bella and Uncle Rodi look better. Bella rose up and cleared her clothes. Talking Neville by the arms she apparated to Malfoy Manor, Rodolphus behind her.

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(An hour before)

"Crucio!"

Marvolo felt the magic that he had to hold tight to himself, burst forth as the man came from the floo. Severus Snape looked like hell, Marvolo would make sure to drop him there himself.

The shrill scream the man let out seemed like a balm against his soul. He had held on for far too long. Keeping his power under wraps had been an insult to his magical capabilities, but he had had no choice. He would enjoy this moment.

Severus writhed and clawed away at the floor, nails breaking under the onslaught of nerves burning again and again. He could feel his throat tear under the strain of his screams as tears slipped his eyes, and his mind felt almost like water.

Suddenly it stopped and he was in his mind again, gasping on the floor, sweating and bloody.

"You are lucky... or maybe not so... Lucius just reminded me that losing you would leave our questions unanswered and we need to know everything"

Severus tried to raise his head, his neck and head throbbing. Unsuccessful he moved his body to look at the couch where one Lucius Mafloy sat with what seemed like a child in his lap. The child was sleeping and he could only see the black head.

Lucius glared at him and turned the head to the side, showing Harry Potter sleeping peacefully in his lap. Severus felt his thoughts stutter as his whole being shook with abhorrence as he turned his head away.

"Ahh. So you know what you did?" Lucius snarled.

Severus let his head fall back against the hard floor. He had just previously emptied his stomach otherwise he was sure he would have been vomiting on the floor again. He looked at red eyes and felt remorse fill up what was left of his mind. He had done what he had. He had never wanted to betray the Dark Lord, but he could not serve a man who would kill his love.

He was shaken from his thought by the dark chuckle from across the room.

"Oh so you did betray me for Regulus after all."

Severus realised that his mind was wide open but he did not have the strength to close it now. It was alright, he always knew he would be joining Regulus in death, he was glad it was sooner rather than later.

The chuckles started again. "If I did not hate and despise you as much as I do Severus Snape, I would pity you"

Severus wondered whether the Dark Lord was still sane. He seemed not to be.

"I am sane Severus, no thanks to you." His shock must have shown on his face, for the Dark Lord replied, "I know about the potion. You fool. You meddle in things that should be left untouched. You let Dumbledore manipulate you. You are a fool!"

Marvolo looked at confused black eyes, and felt a snarl rise up in him. He wanted to kill this piece of filth, but he was going to have his revenge first, then Harry's, then all the death eaters whose trust he betrayed, but first.

He locked eyes with black beads and gathering his magic, pushed. He did not go softly as he had with Harry, but tore into Severus's mind with the care of a sledge hammer. He discarded the childhood memories and brought is closer to the time when news of Regulus's death had spread.

He watched Severus as he heard rumours of Regulus's betrayal and death. He saw a memory of Severus asking him for information which Marvolo had shoved aside. He had thought Regulus would tell him when he was ready and had told Severus that he would know what had happened soon enough. He saw Severus's fear and sadness with the news of a new Lord Black, as the tapestry showed the other dead. He went to Lady Black's funeral.

Marvolo jumped through the rest of the memories, until he came across one with Dumbledore. He paused and immersed himself in the memory,

(Memory)(Memory)(Memory)(Memory)(Memory)

Albus Dumbledore was apparently waiting for Severus at the end of the forbidden forest. Severus sneered at the man, "What is it you have to say?"

Dumbledore looked at Severus with sombre eyes. "My dear child I am so sorry for you-"

"I don't care for your meaningless platitudes Dumbledore." Severus sneered, "The only reason I came is because you said you had news regarding Regulus"

Dumbledore looked at Severus as if disappointed with his lack of manner. "Well, if you insist"

Dumbledore put his hand in his robe and brought out what seemed like an envelope,

"I am sure you must have heard rumours about the cause behind Regulus's death. I can confirm that it is because Regulus betrayed the Dark Lord"

Severus flinched as if stabbed, and looked at Dumbledore with eyes filling with horror, how did Dumbledore know this? His muscles bunched as if waiting for his command to run,

"Regulus came to me with his fears that the Dark Lord was losing his sanity. He had realised that he had joined the wrong side and asked for my protection, which I gave him" Severus felt his legs turning to jelly, what?

Dumbledore, having read his expression, nodded, "In return he was to give me information of the Dark Lord and his weaknesses, which he did so admirab-"

"NO!"

Severus denied as he came from his shock, "Regulus would never betray the Dark Lord and he would never do so without telling me!" Severus shook his head against the accusation, through fear had started to grow in his stomach.

"My boy, I am deeply sorry but it is the truth. He did not want you involved because he thought his chances of failing were high and he did not want you to suffer."

Dumbledore handed him the envelope he had taken out, "Here, Regulus wrote a letter to you before he left. I don't know what it says as it is written in some code, but it is obviously for you. It came with a letter to me, asking me to give it to you in case something went wrong"

Severus looked at the plain envelope, on which in Regulus's handwriting, were the words, Severus.

His hands shook as he tore the envelope and took out the heavy parchment. He brought it to his nose and smelt it; pine oak, Regulus's favourite scent.

He looked at the parchment and opened the letter, hands shaking, to see the code that he and Regulus had developed at Hogwarts, just for the two of them.

He swallowed as he realized that no one else knew the code. It was in his potions book in Hogwarts which he was sure no one was liable to see or figure out. Which meant what Dumbledore was saying was the truth.

He took out his wand and cast the spell, hesitant in front of Dumbledore but he had to know now.

The previous wiggles on the paper soon turned into a writing he recognised;

Dear Severus.

I…. I really don't know how to start this letter. There is so much I want to tell you. So much that I am hiding from you that… I feel lost. But know this, no matter what happens….. I love you. I love you so much that the thought of disappointing you, the thought of your pain paralysis me…. I can't believe I am on this road.

I am doing what I am but I am not sure if it is the right course to take. It will most likely result in my death. Oh what am I saying... I know it will result in my death but I will still…. I will … I don't want to…. but I am…. I know you will hate me for betraying the Dark Lord... I would hate me too…..

Severus I wish you were here with me… I wish…

The letter ended there. Severus turned the parchment over, wanting to read more, but there was nothing there. Where was the rest of it? He looked at Dumbledore with a snarl, "Where is the rest of it?! Where is it? There has to be more"

Severus turned the parchment over and cast the spell again and again. Marvolo slowly took himself out of Severus's emotions as they spiralled into sorrow and rage so deep, he was afraid he would be taken in. He saw Severus fall to the ground, shoulders hunched over the parchment and the whole body shook with sobs and the scream caused the birds to fly from their trees, "Regulus!"

(Memory end)(Memory end) (Memory end)(Memory end) (Memory end)(Memory end)

Marvolo shoved himself away from the memories so harshly that he stumbled back and hit the table he had been leaning against. A shudder racked his frame as he tried to deal with the blossoming pity to eradicate it. No, he would not pity this man. Severus Snape had shown a lack of trust in him which he could not forgive. To go as far as the potion was incomprehensible. But it seemed he needed to have a chat with Regulus Black.

Demon eyes flashed with anger before Marvolo pushed back into Severus's crumbling mind, ignoring the startled scream the other let out, he needed to know everything.

He watched in fast speed, without immersing himself this time, as Severus pulled himself together with one thought, revenge. He watched as Severus was given the recipe of the Verbum Obsessio from Dumbledore and he explained the plan to force the Dark Lord out of hiding so that they could finish him once and for all. He quickly looked through snippets before reaching the time in Dumbledore's office.

Severus was told of how Lucius and the Lestranges were not death eaters and Marvolo watched as his barrier fell, and the word Harry Potter reverberated in his mind. Marvolo knew this feeling.

Fool! You Fool! The potion! You still have it on you!

Snape was smart enough to control his shield again, but Marvolo knew the damage was done. Left alone, the potion wore off, but with a name to focus on, the potion would stay in stasis... waiting.

He moved the images to that day, as Severus talked to Lily. Severus turned around and saw a mini Regulus. It was enough to weaken his barrier and at the same time, Lily said "Harry".

Marvolo let himself out with a scream, his last glimpse of Severus in the washroom banging his hands against the floor. He turned unseeing and dumped all the material on the table to the ground with a scream of rage. He could feel his magic lashing at the man on the ground who had bitten his tongue in pain and blood leaked from his mouth.

Marvolo tried to get his breath under control, his body shook at his rage and the feeling of impotence that filled him. Everything was… no one's fault….Dumbledore played them all. Like puppets on a string he played everyone and they all danced to his tune.

Marvolo. I love you.

Lucius's sound was like a soft breeze against his burning thoughts. Lucius was confused and afraid but was making sure that Marvolo knew he was still there. Marvolo took a deep breath and with the exhale let out all his frustration and anger and let it dissipate in the air, shoulders sagging and head falling on his arms as he spoke to Lucius.

"Severus Snape….. I don't know what to say. I really don't."

Marvolo turned to Lucius, "He is at fault… He betrayed us…. And yet…. But no…. He never came to us. He trusted Dumbledore… That I will not forgive. "

Marvolo stood up straight, his mind clear. While there was a lot of things to take care of now, he knew he could handle it. Severus Snape would be punished for his betrayal. The man may have suffered enough... but not yet.

"Peg!"

The elf popped in, before winging its ear's looking at the still sleeping boy. Apparently the news had spread amongst the elves. "He has a silencing charm around him Peg" Marvolo chuckled while he explained, before turning serious.

"Take this man and hang him in the dungeons and stay with him. Send Narcissa to heal him. I don't want him dying on me yet"

Marvolo ignored the lighting confusion in the black pain filled eyes that had glazed over and said,

"You are about to enter hell Severus Snape… Survive, and I might just forgive you."

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Marvolo moved towards Lucius after Severus was taken away. Lucius was confused, yet waiting patiently. Marvolo looked at the child who would panic and wake up every time he was let out of Lucius's arms and let out a sigh. Why did fate hate this child? Then again sometimes it felt like fate hated him as well.

Marvolo looked into Lucius's eyes and put their foreheads together. He put his finger around Lucius's forehead and let him in. He showed him everything.

Lucius had tears in his eyes when the separated but he did not let them fall. Lucius was grateful he did not have to make any decisions now. "My Lord?"

"We have a change in plans Lucius. I am going to call everyone. It is time everything came in the open, and it is time Sirius Black and Remus Lupin chose."

At the curiosity in Lucius's eyes Marvolo nodded, "Harry is not going back to the Potter. I won't have it. The boy won't leave you alone. There is only one solution. The child stays here."

Lucius nodded, knowing his Lord had a plan, before a smirk came on his face. He looked at Marvolo with gleeful eyes, "Can I tell Lily?"

Sapphire and Rubies shone with a sadistic glint, "Of course you can."

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Rodolphus and Bella were the first to enter the manor, as expected. They were joined by Narcissa who took Neville to the play room, while directing husband and wife to one of the arranged meeting rooms.

Rodolphus and Bella entered into the large rectangular room. There was a window at the back of the room which opened to the gardens below. On the right was a book case, filed with different books. There was a table in the centre surrounded by different chairs and two sofas on opposite sides of the table. On the chair facing the door was the Dark Lord, assessing them with rusty eyes. On the sofa to the right was Lucius, which a child, laying his head on Lucius's legs, sleeping.

"Bella, Rodolphus come in."

Both entered looking curiously at the child they recognised now as Harry. "He can't hear anything, so you can relax" Marvolo said.

Marvolo sat with them and explained everything that had happened that day. Bella had tears in her and was openly sobbing while Rodolphus had lost all colour in his face. Both looked at Harry with pity in their eyes,

"Do not pity him! And don't you dare let him see it. Treat him as you always have. This does not make any difference"

Bella and Rodolphus nodded, wondering why the Dark Lord was being so cruel to the poor boy. Lucius watched their expression,

They think you are cruel,

I am aware of that.

Why did you say that then?

Because it is the truth. If they treat him different, he will feel different, and will give the incident more power than it should. You need not worry on that matter Lucius. I will deal with that.

Lucius looked at Ruby eyes that had gone soft as the gazed at the head in his lap. Marvolo's intentions towards Harry had changed. He was now seeing what Lucius had always seen in the child.

There was a spark there and had always been there. Marvolo did not want that spark gone either. Lucius relaxed into the comfortable sofa, smiling with relief, Harry was safe now. Marvolo would let nothing more happen to the child.

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Rabastan was sweating by the time they entered the manor. Sirius did not know the reason behind the urgency as he tried to calm Irene down, who had been crying ever since they floo'd over. Sirius felt guilty for feeling grateful when the whining baby was taken from his lap by a house elf and taken away, along with Alex.

Narcissa came to them and smiled as she hugged Sirius tightly. Sirius hugged back, confused but not against the show of affection. When she pulled back, she had tears in her eyes,

"Best of luck to the both of you"

Sirius felt like he was missing something because Rabastan actually seemed grateful for the wish. Now that he looked carefully, Rabastan was too quite. He was never this quite. What had the man done now?

"It's the other meeting room. Bella and Rody are there." Narcissa said, as she walked towards where the kids were most likely kept.

The moment she was out of sight and Rabastan started moving towards what must have been the meeting room, Sirius snapped, "What is all this about Rab?"

Rabastan just flinched, "I am not sure. Actually what I think is happening is my worst nightmare come to life… but I wish it was not so..."

They came in front of a room and Rabastan stopped before they could enter, "Sirius-"

Sirius looked worried at Rabastan whose eyes were hazy because of the misty sheen that covered them. "Please believe me when I say that I love you with all my being. I love you so much, and I love our kids. Please" a tear slipped, "Please… don't leave me"

Sirius's eyes widened and he moved forward to hug or shake Rabastan he did not know- but to just stop his babbling- when the white shirtsleeve slipped up from his left hand and the black against his skin caught the light from the now opened door. Sirius was stunned, unable to move as he was pushed in the room and the door closed behind him.

"Well, well, if it isn't Sirius Black" the chuckle spread through the room, making Sirius quake with fear. If he was not mistaken, he was in the room with the Dark Lord.

"My Lord you are scaring the poor man" the second voice broke Sirius from his shocked fear, it was Lucius. But Lucius had been a death eater by force….right?

"Sit down Black!"

Sirius blinked as he looked around the room. The man who had spoken was sitting on the chair behind the table. He was broad and tall, with Black hair with tints of brown reaching shoulders, piercing red eyes seemed to watch him like a predator as he slowly moved forward and sat in the chair across from him.

He knew this was Lord Dionysus which meant Voldemort had been here for more than 4 years and never did anything. He did attack the Potters. Sirius fisted his hand on his legs and looked to his left to see Rabastan sitting with Rodolphus and Bella.

He felt the sting of betrayal all the way to his soul as tears clouded his eyes. He shoved them away, thinking only of escape and warning Dumbledore. He was scanning the room when his eyes fell on the hair visible on Lucius's lap and his plans crashed as he was reminded of the last few years. He did not know what to do. Why had Voldemort not attacked him yet? He glared at Lucius before turning hot eyes towards the dark lord.

"Well?!" he demanded, "You have Harry as hostage, what do you want with me?!"

Sirius was worried they would demand Sebastian in return for Harry. It would be an impossible situation to put him in.

"Black, as much as I want to know who you would choose, that is not why you are here."

Sirius glared at the red eyed man, who did not look as scary as he did in Sirius's nightmares.

The man chuckled causing the hair on Sirius's arms to rise, "Fret not Black. While I am probably worse than your nightmares, you are safe from me, as long as you don't actively fight against me" the last was said with a hiss.

Sirius swallowed, trying and failing to control the fear that was spreading through him. He watched as the man went to the bookshelf and moved a book, causing a panel to shift and revealing a large space. Curiosity got the better of him as he turned to peek inside. The chuckle from his left caused him to stare at Rabastan who clearly knew what was going on. He glared at the other man, who shifted uncomfortably under his eyes.

Vol- It was hard to call this man Voldemort, but he was coming back with a... pensive? Sirius looked curious at the man, and watched as he put down the pensive on the table and he brought his finger tip to his forehead, leaving with the silvery strand of memories which were then poured into the basin.

Sirius watched, awed at the display of wandless magic, magic he did not even think was possible. Red eyes gleamed with humour before turning grave. "Black, all your questions will be answered in there. Rabastan will join you"

It was clear that it was an order. Sirius stood up, trusting that no matter what Rabastan was, he would not allow him to be killed. He peeked at the pensive before falling in. As he fell he thought he heard Lucius say something along the lines of 'showing off', before he was hit with the memories, unable to do anything but watch from the moment the Dark Lord decided not to go after the prophesized boys, not noticing when he was joined by Rabastan.

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Sirius Black came out of the pensive with a grey tint to his face. Lucius had been prepared for the reaction as there was a basin right next to the table where Sirius had no choice but to hurl in. Rabastan while green around the edges managed to control himself. He sat down and rubbed Sirius's back, flinching when he was pushed away and Sirius crawled over to take harry from Lucius.

Marvolo magicked the sick away, as Sirius pleaded with Lucius to give him Harry. Lucius looked towards Marvolo and seeing the nod, slowly let go of his hold and Sirius had the boy in his arms.

The moment seemed to have woken Harry up and he blinked owlishly, before his whole body froze up and he started fighting against the hold Sirius had on him.

"Luke!?" Harry cried out.

Sirius tried to speak but Lucius had Harry out of his arms and in his lap before a word could escape. Sirius watched as Harry clutched at Lucius and his stiff shoulders relaxed ever so slightly.

Sirius felt Rabastan approach him again and let the other rub his rub his back as tears fell on his cheeks. What was he to do now? He had known Dumbledore was wrong but he had always thought Voldemort was worse. In the final fight he had planned on joining Dumbledore again but now...

Sirius felt a shudder take his body. His husband and his eldest son were never going to join the light. His own brother had joined the dark. He did not know if he could betray James and Lily by fighting for Voldemort but he would not side with either. Lily... the thought had him stopping.. Lily hit Harry... or did she? Was Voldemort playing tricks on him?

"I do not have any plans of attacking the Potter's, if they decide to get out of my way. You can stay neutral Black, for now. All you have to do is make sure the Potters turn neutral as well. As for the truth, Harry will tell you himself, if his previous reaction did not pierce that thick brain of yours." Voldemort spoke, anger buried deep at Blacks resistance to the truth.

Sirius looked at the carpet and tried to wrap his mind around the information that he had just been given. It was too much. He needed time to think about what this meant.

"You have time Black, you have time."

The knock on the door bought Sirius back in his mind as he forced the arising bile down to stand up on his legs. He let Rabastan guide him to the remaining sear and slumped in, closing his eyes. He did not look at Harry to whom Lucius had been talking to behind the silencing barrier. He did not look up when the door opened and another person came in to talk to Voldemort.

He looked up only when said person sat next to him. He blinked his eyes at seeing the dark eyed man he had seen at the ministry. Might be another death eater. Just how many people had known that Voldemort was alive?

He looked back down at the ground as the memories kept circling his mind like a nightmare just waiting to ensnare him. He had sworn to protect Harry. How could this have happened? He needed to do something. He just did not know what. The sound of the door opening barely reached his ears but the gasp he heard was known. Remus!?

He looked up in shock to see Remus standing at the door next to a person with long wild hair. Wait a second. He had seen this man's picture in the wanted section in the ministry; Fenrir Greyback! WHAT THE HELL!

"Remus?!" Sirius bounced up from the chair, "What are you doing here? And with HIM?!" Sirius growled.

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Remus Lupin had not known what to expect when Fenrir had silently apparated him to Malfoy Manor. If nothing the last few years had taught him more patience than he had expected. He had finally figured out how wrong Dumbledore was but he refused to consider Voldemort in the right as well. He would lie low for now, and if another war broke out, he would protect his cubs and the children, no matter what race.

He had realized his dreams of teaching and knew that he would never let a child or student be harmed while he was there, whether it was from fighting for the light or the dark. He looked at his right towards a frowning Fenrir and felt apprehension creep up.

Fenrir did not let anything worry him for too long. Whatever would happen today, he had a feeling it would change a lot of things.

He walked into a sun lit room and a gasp escaped as he smelt and saw the people around. The room was filled with Dark sympathisers; Malfoy, Lestranges, Rabastan, a man who was radiating the darkest magic he had ever felt and... a hunched over man who smelled like... Sirius?

His gasp seemed to have shaken Sirius out of his thoughts, who jumped up startled. Sirius's next comment made him freeze as he wondered how to explain and if he was about to lose his best friend forever.

Before he could defend himself a menacing voice spoke up,

"Sit down Black! I can see I might need a leash for you. Greyback is mine" It was the man with the darkness.

Lucius Malfoy who had been sitting on the seat spoke up softly,

"Sirius Black, have you learnt nothing? Why is it that after everything, your every first reaction is still that of the eleven year old Sirius. Do not forget what you lost because of your Gryffindor tendencies. You are finally learning to be Slytherin, be careful how you step now. You have more to lose this time around."

Sirius seemed to fold in on himself, while Rabastan seemed to be drilling holes in the ground. Remus was now officially confused.

The man spoke up, his voice softer than it had been before, "Remus Lupin, child of the moon. A man worthy of admiration. You have been missing for a few years and are unaware of a few developments. It is time you knew, so that you may choose wisely."

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~Time Skip~

Around Midnight...

Lucius Malfoy put Harry on the ottoman and went to join Marvolo at the window. The moon was up and light filtered in past the curtains. Everyone had left. It was been as he had expected. He had warned Marvolo not to call Regulus at the same time as everyone else. There was still too much tension and Black did not know Regulus was alive. Black would have enough to deal with as it is.

Thankfully Marvolo had heeded his advice and warned Regulus not to come into the room. They would be meeting with the two now. They needed some answers from Regulus.

Lucius looked back at the sleeping boy. Harry has slept the whole day away. Kreacher had come in the middle of the meeting to tell them about a distraught Lily, who had finally noticed that Harry was not in his room. Sirius had done as told, and informed Lily that Harry was with him, and would stay until morning when he would come to settle the whole matter.

A cruel grin stretched upon his lips, he would be there to watch Lily crumble. He had always admired her and in a way he could understand her reaction, but he did not agree with it. Very few people actually had the true traits of a Gryffindor, most had the natural tendency to react before they think, and that is where Lily had always fallen, despite her smarts.

"I will be watching from your eyes", said Marvolo, a dry smirk at his lips.

They both glanced towards the door as the knock drifted towards them.

"Come in" Lucius said. He went and sat on the ottoman next to Harry, carding his fingers gently through the hair, knowing that everything was going to turn out fine. The approach they had decided to take would be the torture that both Snape and Regulus deserved for their betrayal and stupidity.

The door opened and both Regulus and Nero entered. It seemed that Regulus had finally given in to Nero's charms. This was perfect, it would make the torture even worse.

Marvolo took his seat and nodded at the two to sit. It was silent for a while and Regulus kept fidgeting while Nero just looked at them with calm and understanding eyes. This was not the Nero they had met before who had reacted at the slight provocation. Regulus had affected Nero more than the man had originally thought.

Regulus cleared his throat, "My Lord you-"

"Regulus Black", Marvolo spoke, his tone taut with restrained anger,

"Did you or did you not write a letter to Dumbledore, to give to Snape, before you betrayed me?"

Regulus looked startled and confused.

"No my lord, I never gave Dumbledore any letter. He knew about me and Severus but I kept Severus out of it. Why are you asking? What happened?"

Lucius could tell he was being honest, "Did you ever write Severus any letter when you were thinking about betraying us?" Lucius asked.

Regulus had just started shaking his head when he suddenly froze, a gasp escaping. His eyes widened as he seemed to remember something. Marvolo sat straighter and Lucius leaned forwards to hear as well.

"W-W-ell..."Regulus stuttered, "I did write a letter... But I never sent it! I swear! I did not even complete the letter. As I was writing it, I realised that I could never betray you my lord," Regulus got up and fell to his knees, eyes turning red with tears "I never completed it. I never sent it. I just kept it in my desk. Why are you asking this?" Regulus said, desperate to know why a letter he had forgotten about was being brought up now.

Marvolo leaned back in his chair and rubbed his eyes, his whole posture showing his weariness.

"Come Regulus. It is time you see what you fear and insecurities have done"

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Regulus came stumbling out of the pensive, dry heaving as his knees hit the floor. Red tears fell from his eyes, throat burning to scream at the injustice that had been done to Severus, because of him. All because of him. Why had he not told Severus the truth? He choked back a sob, he knew better than anyone what Dumbledore was capable of, then why did he let his fear leave Severus so vulnerable. But...

"How?" He gasped, " No one knows the code, and no one knew I wrote that letter, how did-?"

He could not continue.

Lucius was the one who replied, Lord Voldemort was just watching from a corner of the room.

"Dumbledore probably had your place searched and found the letter. He is a smart man, I am sure he could have broken the code and decided to use Severus in exchange for you"

"But the code was unbroken-"

Regus was cut off by a dry laugh, "Where was the key?" his lord asked.

"At Hog-" His eyes widened. Stupid, stupid. The key was in Hogwarts.

Regulus felt like banging his head on the floor. What a tangled web it was turning out to be and he seemed to be at the centre of it.

It was Nero who decided to take the conversation on track, "What do you plan on doing with him? Despite not being completely to blame, Snape still betrayed you. You do not seem like a person to forgive and forget betrayal."

Regulus looked up at that towards Marvolo and watched as his eyes became ruby red.

"Severus Snape deserves punished, as does Regulus." Regulus let out a breath in a hiss at the news, his Lord was sadistic enough without being in a blind rage.

"The truth is my choice of weapon."

A dark smile appeared on those lips, "Severus wants to die and join Regulus. I want him to join Regulus and know the whole truth. His own sense of loyalty will choke him, for having betrayed the dark for a man who had been alive and never killed by the dark. "

The Dark Lord looked at Nero with glinting eyes, "Nero. I give you Severus Snape. He is too precious a pawn to die. Use him as you see fit. Punish him for having Regulus before you if you must and for hurting Regulus for his betrayal, and punish Regulus for loving Snape and never trusting him. Severus and Regulus will never touch and never talk."

Regulus felt the horror of what the dark Lord was saying grip him, his heart freezing in his chest.

The dark Lord moved towards the door, Lucius staying behind, "Come, and let us tell Severus his judgement. Regulus, you will be joining us. Time to show Severus what hell truly is."

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The sound of water dripping could be heard as the elf cleaned up the body of the man hanging from the manacles. The man was wearing only worn trouser as his shirt had been too torn and the elf had thrown it away. The sound of rattling startled the elf as it looked up and saw black eyes blink blearily.

Severus Snape let out a groan, throat protesting at the sound, as pain and exhaustion hit his body at once. His arms were throbbing as the chain pulled them taut, his hands bruised and nail beds stinging. Every nerve on his body still felt like it was on fire and shock-waves went through him with every breath that he took. Why was he still alive?

He had betrayed the Dark Lord, he knew he deserved death and he wanted it. He wanted it so badly. he was tired. He just wanted to join Regulus and lay in his arms again. Tears slipped from the corner of his eyes.

The sound of feet made him pull his arms to try and rub the tear tracks away. He would die a man, not a weakling.

He kept his head hanging as the door to his cell opened and his Lords presence came in. Following him were two other steps of feet, very light, not possibly human. He felt his shoulders tense, letting the others know he was awake, but the only thought on his mind was what Voldemort was going to do to him. Was he going to be lunch? He kept looking down, refusing to look at his fate as Voldemort spoke.

"Severus Snape, it is time for your punishment. You will be told the truth and will be given to this Vampire Nero. You will send a letter to Dumbledore explaining what you did to Harry, and that you are leaving Hogwarts. Tell him you will join when Sebastian joins Hogwarts to keep an eye if that is what Dumbledore wants but you can't be around children right now. Your punishment Severus, is that you will live. Live knowing that you betrayed everything you lived for, even the love of your life"

Severus felt fear grip him, as he thought about living any more without Regulus. His head snapped up at hearing about his betrayal, "I never betrayed Reg-"

He broke off and his eyes widened as he looked into a pair of gray eyes, eyes tinged red, Black hair, narrow jaw; it was the face he had seen when he had looked at Harry. No...

Severus moved against the chains in shock, his body breaking in sweat at the pain that went through him, his breath hitching. Regulus moved as if to touch him before the man next to him gripped his arm.

The man was tall, taller than Regulus, and lean with muscles covering every inch of his frame. He had a piercing shade of blue eyes and brown hair. The man smiled and sharp teeth peaked out. Vampire! This was the vampire Voldemort was going to give him to... but wait.

"What?" he choked out, his throat making it hard to talk. "No! What kind of trick are you playing here Voldemort?" Severus snapped and then let out a piercing scream as he felt the nerves of his body burst. He twitched in the chains, the sound of his screams covering everything else.

He let out a gasp as he the pain went away, head falling down. His body twitched with the aftershocks. "Do no disrespect me Snape!" The Dark Lord hissed. "Regulus will tell you the truth"

The Dark Lord turned to the corned and the Vampire moved to stand next to him. Regulus took a few steps in his direction and then stopped. Severus looked at him from head to toe and could not believe it. Regulus was alive! Wait? Severus stilled, his bubble of happiness pierced by his rational thoughts again. Regulus was alive... not dead... The Dark Lord did not kill him... He betrayed them all... for what?

He felt as if his whole being had frozen up and he looked up at Regulus with betrayal shining in his eyes. Regulus was alive and never once told him, never came to him. He spent days in bed, tearing at the sheets at the missing piece inside him and all this time Regulus was alive.

A whispers at the corner was not loud enough to catch his attention but what happened next was; the vampire spoke, "Regulus, come here"

Regulus looked conflicted but moved towards the vampire, Severus only caught a glimpse of shock on his face before the vampire kissed him... on the mouth... with tongues...

Severus felt every thought in his brain scatter as he watched the one person who he had lived for in the arms of someone else. Sound seemed to rush in his ears, ice spreading and his heart seemed to be pumping really slowly. His eyes burned and his throat itched to let out the scream of agony building up. No... Regulus... No... Tears fell down his cheeks and he let out a broken whimper.

His whimper broke them from their kiss and Regulus looked at him horrified, Nero calm, and the Dark Lord with sadistic amusement.

"You betrayed me... for him?"

Severus did not know what to do, or feel, he just wanted to die now. He turned his head away,

Regulus could not take it anymore, "Severus-.. My Lord! Please! Let me explain!"

The dark Lord nodded and Regulus sighed as he came forward again. Severus listened, or tried to listen as Regulus told him everything. How Dumbledore came to him, how he agreed to betray him, how he wrote a letter and never sent it, he came clean to Voldemort and Dumbledore sent a rouge after him and how the Vampire, Nero, had saved him.

Severus listened as Regulus talked. Severus felt like his head was spinning. Everything he had believed in, every action he had taken over that belief was all a lie... masterminded by Dumbledore.

He was shocked by the hate that burst in his veins for the old man. That man cost him everything... but he himself was to blame... for not trusting in his lord enough. For not asking his Lord straightforward, and for blaming his lord for getting rid of someone who had betrayed him. They had always known that betrayal was the one thing their Lord would never forgive.

Severus felt despair take hold of him, his life was worth nothing. He looked up, eyes blank,

"Kill me. Please. Have mercy on me and kill me. I don't want to live like this anymore"

The dark Lord sneered, his handsome face twisting with the expression. "I don't have mercy on people who betray me. Regulus thought about it, but never went through with it. Had you only planned I might have forgiven you. But you... You executed it... and resulted in my loss of sanity... the thing you claimed I already had lost... You cost the lives of so many of your brother death eaters, their lives torn apart. And you cost Harry Potter his innocence. That I will never forgive"

The Dark Lord looked up as if hearing something, "It is time I took my leave. Have him write the letter Nero, and take him with you. He will live, knowing the person he did it for is alive and belongs to someone else now. You lose everything Severus, even Lily when she finds out tomorrow what you did to her son."

Severus was beginning to feel numb because of the number of hits he had taken.

He looked up as the Dark Lord exited the cell, the words floating behind him, "Enjoy Hell Severus".

A/N: Finally this chapter is out... It took me a while... I got a serious block because this chapter was so important and everyone, including me, was looking forward to it, that nerves just choked me... By the time I felt like I could write again, I graduated, went home and got married... Yup... Married now... So had to get used to a having a husband... who you guys need to thank. When I told him how I was writing and had not written in a while because of the wedding, he pulled my metaphorical ears and told me not to keep you guys waiting and get to it... so here I am...: D

Now I really need your reviews, to help me with any missing points or errors... I had not realised I would get rusty... but I am...so I need to get back on track with this story. I missed it. Not sure how close together the updates will be... life is very busy now... but definitely won't be as long as it has been... Thank you guys for reading, following and waiting... :)