AN: I have decided to switch Regulas's age. In my story he is two years older than Sirius.
Part Forty-Two
"Where is Mr. Lupin?" asked Professor McGonagall after giving them both hugs as well.
Again James and Sirius exchanged looks.
"He's having a slight problem at the moment, Professor," replied James not meeting their eyes.
"What's wrong with my son?" demanded Gladys Lupin from behind them.
Without waiting for an answer, she headed for the door.
"I don't think that would be wise at the moment, Mrs. Lupin," said Sirius. "He's not in the mood to welcome anyone. Even family."
From the sidelines, Regulas watched his younger brother as he answered questions from the Headmaster and deputy Headmistress. He didn't know when he'd been happier to see his brother. When Sirius had been pronounced dead the week before, Regulas had felt something die inside him. Sirius was so full of life. So ready to joke with anyone that he liked and ready to prank anyone he didn't. He either loved someone or didn't, there was no in between for his little brother. He made a wonderful friend, loyal to a fault and protective to the point of mania when his friends were in danger. He had admired that in his brother for years and wished that some of that could be transferred to himself.
Regulas was a Death Eater. Two years ago he had joined just after leaving Hogwarts as he was expected to do. He thought that even if he couldn't have friends like Sirius did he could at least belong to something, even if he didn't really believe in what they taught. The things that he had to do to fit in and not incur his Lord's wrath made him sick. No one should have such things done to them, even muggles. The children that had suffered at his hands haunted his dreams at night. So far, he had been able to keep himself from killing anyone, but it was fast approaching the time when the Dark Lord wouldn't take any more excuses and sends him on a mission that couldn't be avoided. He shuddered to think about what that mission might entail. Regulas knew that he wasn't brave like his little brother and knew also what Sirius thought of him.
He put a hand in his pocket and felt the cold metal of the object there. If Voldemort ever found out what he had done, Regulas knew that he would be worse than dead, but it would be worth it. He couldn't do this anymore and if it would help bring down the maniac he once called "Lord" so much the better.