A/N:1 My mother is having surgery tomorrow - so keep her in your blessings.
A/N:2 This chapter was a nightmare to write, and now I'm exhausted.
A/N:3 There will be around two or three more chapters before they get their letters!
How is it possible? Was Sala's first thought as the house elves greeted them.
"How is this part of your family, Harry?" Sala asked him, unable to refrain from the question.
"It is both of yous, Masters," one of the elves stated as they crowded around him and Harry.
"That's impossible." Regulus snapped, apparently unhappy with the news, though why he couldn't tell.
Harry, Sala noticed, wasn't saying a word.
"I will go make something to eat for us," Harry said in the way of answering, evidently not knowing how house elves worked despite Talby and Kreacher constantly being around. Perhaps it was because Mrs Hacker was the one who usually provided the food. Before he could say so, one of the house elves stopped him, the elf's voice higher in pitch from how scandalised she must have felt.
"No, Master, you is not making the food! Master sits nicely, and we's make the food for Masters!"
"I won't poison it," Harry scowled, but they ignored him and hurried off to begin with dinner.
Harry turned back to them, and Sala had to force himself to smile, but it didn't reach his eyes. He was the descendant of Slytherin. Not Harry. His father would have given him the last name Slytherin if it weren't so obvious. Not Harry's! It wasn't fair!
As the dozens of house elves began to scurry around cleaning the house and another dozen making dinner, Sala, Harry, and Regulus stepped through the heavy oak doors, looking around, their footsteps echoing on the marble floors of the grand entrance hall. In the air, the connoisseurs were surrounded by a cloud of intoxicating unbridled elegance and opulence. The element of surprise had dissipated with the warm welcome from the diligent house elves, allowing the four of them to take in the breathtaking surroundings.
Sala's gaze was drawn upward, captivated by the sight that unfolded before him. Majestic marble columns rose tall and proud, supporting an intricately carved balcony that encircled the hall. Soft light cascaded from the exquisite crystal chandeliers that hung like bejewelled crowns, casting shimmering patterns across the polished marble beneath their feet.
The walls were adorned with a gallery of portraits, each a silent witness to the grandeur of past generations. They all appeared to be sleeping, but Sala could have sworn some were peeking at him. Proud and noble faces stared out from ornate frames, their eyes seeming to follow the boys' every move, at least the ones not pretending to sleep. None of them spoke, though, but when they saw Harry, a few whispered to each other, which grated on Sala's nerves even more. Why was Harry getting the attention that he deserved?
It was a tapestry of ancestral heritage, a visual testament to the lineage of those who had called this place home. Perhaps they could all sit down and have a conversation and find out why Harry was more special than him.
Regulus, his eyes widening with awe, broke the silence. "Bloody hell, Sala," he whispered, his voice tinged with veneration. "Can you imagine the stories hidden within these walls?"
He nodded.
Harry, too, was enchanted by the magnificence of the hall. His emerald eyes sparkled with a mix of wonder and curiosity. "It's like stepping into a different era," he murmured, his voice filled with reverence and excitement.
A barely audible whisper greeted Sala's agreement. "Indeed, and it feels as though time itself has slowed down within these hallowed halls. My family has left a legacy of elegance, a testament to the generations that have come before. Not Harry's. Mine! But he refrained from saying so out loud.
"History is great and all," Ursa grumbled, still snuggled into Regulus' side, "But I just want to eat and sleep."
"The elves are preparing a place for us, as it seems no one's been here awhile. Calm, Ursa."
"We should call our elves too. It would be risky if they found them."
A funny expression crossed Regulus' face. "Kreacher!" With a CRACK, Kreacher appeared looking murderous. "Master Regulus left without Kreacher!"
"Sorry, we didn't exactly get a warning," Regulus muttered.
"Talby!" Sala called, and the elf appeared with a much quieter pop and merely smiled at being reunited.
The boys' reflections danced on the gleaming marble surface as they took tentative steps forward. The vastness of the hall seemed to stretch endlessly, making them feel as insignificant as mere specks in the grand design of Highclere Castle.
The sound of their footsteps was soon joined by the distant murmur of conversation drifting from the adjoining rooms. Portraits talking? The echoes of laughter and gentle music hinted at the life teeming within the walls, though it was unusual for elves and portraits to enjoy human things.
But since when has Harry Potter ever been normal? How much of his legacy created this kind of atmosphere versus mine?
Sala, Harry, and Regulus stood there momentarily, taking in the grandeur of the entrance hall. It was what Sala should have grown up with, but with his father dying, it was no longer an opportunity he had. It was a space that bridged the gap between worlds, wealthy and poor, wanted or given away. Where the splendour of the aristocracy met the humble beauty of the house elves' devotion. They exchanged knowing glances, grateful for the rare opportunity to witness this enchanting realm firsthand. After all, he, Regulus and Ursa had been practically raised in an orphanage.
With newfound resolve, they continued their journey into the heart of Highclere Castle, eager to uncover the secrets and navigate the intricacies of this magnificent estate. The grand entrance hall had set the stage, a tableau of elegance and history, inspiring them to embrace the challenges and adventures that awaited them within its hallowed walls.
A petite house elf approached them as they marvelled at the majestic surroundings. "Young Masters' Slytherin and guests, me's being Elara" With a significant bow, her long nose touching the floor, Elara beamed up at them expectantly. Her voice carried a hint of pride and deference. She scurried towards them, her large, attentive eyes filled with warmth and hospitality. "Dinner is ready, Masters and guests. Please come."
"Greetings, esteemed guests," Another elf said, a gentle smile gracing their features. "I am Aria, Head House Elf of Highclere Castle. Lord and Lady Slytherin have extended an invitation for you to join them for a splendid dinner this evening."
How? And since when was there a lady Slytherin?
Sala and the boys followed Elara through the grand doors leading to Highclere Castle's dining hall. As they entered the room, their breath caught in wonder at the sight before them. The lavishness of the space was truly breathtaking.
The dining hall was expansive, bathed in warm candlelight that danced upon the polished mahogany table, reflecting off the gleaming silverware and delicate crystal goblets. The air was imbued with an enchanting fragrance, a symphony of tantalising aromas wafting from the dishes adorning the table.
Elaborate tapestries adorned the walls, depicting scenes of magical creatures and medieval castles. Above the fireplace, an enormous oil painting of Lord and Lady Slytherin, their portraits enchanted to move, presided over the room. Lady Slytherin's eyes sparkled with intelligence and grace, while Lord Slytherin wore an air of dignified authority.
"That's Salazar Slytherin," Regulus told Ursa and Harry.
He ought to know that if he's a descendant.
As they took their seats, plush velvet chairs embraced them, offering a comfortable vantage point from which to enjoy the sumptuous feast. Intricate silver candelabras cast a soft glow upon the room, adding a touch of magical ambience.
The house elves, including Aria, moved with effortless grace, each clad in a crisp white apron. They glided across the room, serving course after course with impeccable precision. The aroma of the first course, a rich tomato bisque with a hint of basil, filled the air, whetting their appetites.
The meal continued with a succulent roasted duck, caramelised root vegetables and a delicate truffle jus. The flavours mingled on their tongues, delighting their senses. The house elves seamlessly cleared each course, making way for the next.
With her ever-present warm smile, Aria placed a plate of seared scallops drizzled with a citrus reduction before Sala while other elves attended to Harry, Regulus, and Ursa with equal care. The delicate texture of the scallops combined with the tangy sauce created a harmonious symphony of flavours, leaving Sala yearning for more.
The fourth course arrived, featuring a tender beef tenderloin cooked to perfection and served with buttery mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. The succulence of the meat, coupled with the indulgent sides, delighted their palates.
Finally, as the fifth course was presented, Sala's eyes widened with anticipation. A trio of decadent desserts graced the table — a velvety chocolate mousse, a raspberry cheesecake, and a perfectly glazed crème brûlée. He noticed that Harry asked for treacle tart and chuckled but was happy that the elves managed to have some for him. The variety of flavours danced on their taste buds, concluding the meal with a crescendo of sweet indulgence.
"If we eat like this every day, we will get fat," Ursa said, snorting.
Talby, Sala noticed, was in a corner with Kreacher, glaring at the Slytherin elves.
"Maybe we should tell them to integrate with the Slytherin elves?" Sala suggested to Regulus, who nodded.
"Kreacher, Talby, why don't you go and stay with the other elves?"
Kreacher growled, but he and Talby seamlessly joined the Slytherin elves, who immediately showed them what to do and how to assist.
As the house elves cleared the plates and the meal drew to a close, Sala couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the culinary masterpiece that had been prepared for them. The dining hall had been a stage for a symphony of flavours, where each course had been orchestrated with precision and artistry. The Slytherin elves seemed delighted to finally throw a party, but he would need to have a word with them, as what Ursa had said was right. There was no way it was healthy to eat that much at one time.
"It's kind of like Hogwarts," Regulus said.
"How would you know?" Ursa asked.
"What's Hogwarts?" Harry questioned.
Sala and Regulus stared at each other for a second.
Regulus pinched the bridge of his nose.
"It's a school for Magicals."
Harry looked surprised. "You never answered me before."
"Situations changed, I guess…."
"Alright, bedtime," Ursa announced, glaring at them all as if daring them to disagree. "But don't think I didn't notice you ignored my question."
"We can talk tomorrow, Ursa. As you said, it's bedtime now."
Regulus expertly ignored his little brother's glare.
As they rose from the table, their bellies satisfied and their hearts full, the house elves immediately tended to the table, and everything vanished.
Sala and Regulus bid the house elves goodnight, but Harry and Ursa appeared too sleepy to bother with greetings. The four boys walked towards the exit of the dining hall and were led to their separate rooms by the diligent elves. Sala was accompanied by a house elf named Lyra, while Harry had been shown to his room by Bora, and Regulus was guided by the ever-attentive Aria. Ursa, already mostly asleep, was being carried by Nora.
It was obvious that neither Harry nor Ursa wanted to be alone, but perhaps Harry was still too afraid to speak up for himself, and seeing as Ursa was near sleep already, the boy didn't bother making a fuss. As for him, he was too much of a sophisticated pureblood to complain that they were separated. Lyra had prepared pyjamas at the end of his bed and, despite his reluctance, dressed him. Talby was still with Kreacher and didn't see; otherwise, the two house elves would have likely fought.
As Sala settled into his comfortable room, he couldn't help but feel a sense of unease at the prospect of being separated from his friends — brothers, now. The grandeur of the chamber was undeniable, with ornate furnishings and luxurious fabrics adorning every surface. But the extravagantness seemed to pale compared to the comfort he usually felt from another body near him. However, it was too early to show reluctance, and he stayed put. Sometimes he hated being a pureblood.
Hours passed, and the moon cast a soft glow through the curtains, painting the room an ethereal light. In the stillness of the night, Sala found himself unable to rest, his thoughts consumed by the urgent need to protect their newfound sanctuary. Narcissa and the others can easily find us, we are children alone, and they are adults. After all, there were so many ways they could be tracked.
With a determination that couldn't be silenced, Sala slipped out of his room and navigated the dimly lit corridors, guided by a whisper of instinct and what must have been the bond. It nearly begged to be close. He arrived at Regulus' door, gently pushing it open to find the other boy deep in slumber.
Sala approached the enormous bed, its intricate canopy casting a net of shadows across the room. Concern and resolve filled his voice as he softly called, "Regulus."
Regulus stirred, blinking away sleep, and looked up at Sala, his eyes heavy with drowsiness. "Sala? What is it?" he mumbled, still half-asleep.
"We need to talk," Sala replied, his voice filled with urgency. "About the Fidelius Charm. We should protect this place, hide it from those who might seek to harm us."
As Sala grew weary and emotionally vulnerable, he craved the closeness of his oldest and dearest friend. Instinctively, he crawled into Regulus' bed, seeking solace in the other boy's protective warmth. As Regulus enveloped Sala in his arms, creating a haven of safety within the luxurious confines of the room, he appreciated that Regulus understood his unspoken need for comfort.
Regulus rubbed his eyes, fully awakening as he recognised the gravity of Sala's words. "You're right," he replied, his voice laced with tiredness. "Let's discuss it in the morning, though; I can't focus on anything right now."
Regulus nuzzled against him, his nose against his straight hair, mussing it.
The night carried on, and exhaustion claimed both of them again. They drifted into a deep slumber, unaware of the danger lurking beyond their sanctuary.
They were startled awake in the middle of the night by a thunderous banging on the door. Terrified, Regulus and Sala exchanged fearful glances, their hearts racing. It was a sound they weren't prepared for, and they knew not what to do.
I knew we should have done the Fidelius immediately! I know these things!
"Told you." Sala snarked, unable to help himself. "I'm always what, Reg?"
"Right," Regulus whispered, rolling his eyes.
"And don't you ever forget it. People's lives would be much better if they just listened to me."
With their peaceful discourse shattered by the resounding hammering on the door that had turned desperate, Sala and Regulus rounded up Harry and Ursa, who had both come out of their rooms rubbing their eyes. Warily, Sala and Regulus turned to each other, their hearts pounding in unison.
"You should go; you're…older."
Regulus glared at him. "Don't make it a habit of saying that out loud just because you know."
Chastised, Sala merely nodded and joined him on the balcony, where they peeked over to see who was banging on their door. Confusion mingled with caution when they saw a man shielded in darkness.
"Lumos Maxima!" Regulus whispered so as not to be overheard by either Harry or Ursa. With the front door lit up, Regulus saw who it was and stiffened with nerves.
"Fuck."
"Language!" Sala hissed at him.
"That's Remus Lupin! There's no way he wouldn't recognise me…just like Severus."
"Why the hell is he here?"
Harry and Ursa joined them on the balcony, staring.
"HARRY!" Remus bellowed, and with a sudden blur of movement, Remus was suddenly there.
"Get off him." Regulus snarled, pressing a knife against the man's throat.
Where did he get a knife from?
"How the hell did you do that?" Sala asked, even as Remus growled, his eyes flashing amber.
"Harry is my cub!"
"Sorry, what?" Harry interjected. "I don't know you."
"He is a werewolf," Regulus growled.
The wolf in question growled at him, and suddenly a wand was at Regulus' throat, and they stood off like that, neither giving in; Regulus, though, had no problem cutting into the man's skin threateningly.
"I'm the one that takes care of Harry." Regulus snarled.
"We'll let you in if you become our Secret Keeper for this castle," Sala said.
"That's hardly your place to say, Sala," Harry whispered, staring at him with gentle eyes that made Sala angry.
"~You shouldn't even be here~!" Sala hissed at him, his Parseltongue slipping out in his anger.
"~Clearly, I have every right to be here.~" Harry hissed back at him, glaring.
Sala and Harry found themselves engaged in a heated argument, their voices intertwining in Parseltongue's sibilant hisses and whispers. Their words lashed out like venomous serpents, carrying an intensity and urgency that seemed lost on the others in the room. Ursa, Regulus, and Remus exchanged bewildered glances, unable to decipher the meaning behind their conversation.
"He's a Parselmouth?" Remus whispered, staring at the younger boy with something akin to fear.
"Obviously." Regulus snapped.
"~I don't even know why you suddenly have a problem with me.~" Harry said, his eyes blazing with frustration and hurt, but Sala pretended he didn't see. His expression hardened, his voice tinged with defiance. "~My sire named me Sala Zahar. Did you ever wonder why? Did you ever wonder about the closeness to Salazar?~"
The intensity of their argument escalated, their words taking on a frenzied pace, the hisses and whispers ringing in the air like the hissing of snakes.
"~I always accepted you as you were, never judged, always loved, always cherished. No matter what your name is or who you came from!~"
"~Do you even know where I came from? Who is my sire, and what my goal in life is?~"
"~No! And I don't care! I only care about you!~"
As the argument raged on, their voices rose and fell in a serpentine dance, their expressions mirroring the fierce determination that fuelled their words. The others in the room watched with concern and confusion, unable to comprehend the depth of their discourse.
Ursa glanced at Regulus, his eyes reflecting worry and curiosity. Regulus furrowed his brow, straining to catch any hint of meaning in the Parseltongue exchange, though when Sala glanced at him, it was apparent he couldn't make anything out, and for a moment, he was glad. Regulus did not need to know about his petulant and juvenile behaviour. Remus, his gaze flickering between Sala and Harry, wore a troubled expression, his brow creased as he tried to decipher their intense conversation.
Unbeknownst to them, the argument between Sala and Harry in Parseltongue continued, their words punctuated by sibilant whispers and the occasional flicker of their tongues.
Sala's eyes flashed, his tone defiant. "~I love you too, Harry, but you can't also be the heir of Slytherin. It can only be one of us.~"
"~Is that what this is about?~" Harry asked him, moving around the others to stand directly before Sala. "~I don't even care about that! I didn't even know! I just arrived here because my soul brought me here, my instinct. I must have been here as a child, and you too, somehow, if they know you too. I can share if you can.~"
Harry stood on his tiptoes and kissed Sala on the lips, a gesture he had never done before. It was only a peck, but Harry looked at him with such ferocity and deliberation that Sala sagged against him, pulling Harry into his arms, who sniffled.
"~Do you want this man to be here, Harry?~"
"~I don't know him.~"
"~He calls you cub.~"
"~ Doesn't mean I know him.~"
"~Just one word, and Reg can kill him; it's okay.~"
"~Have you guys killed before that it's so easy for you to talk about?~"
Sala didn't answer.
As the others in the room exchanged perplexed glances, Sala and Harry heaved heavy sighs and finished the battle of their argument. Sala realised for the first time that they had just done this in Parseltongue. An ancient language that was for serpents and descendants of Slytherin himself. Maybe Harry really did deserve this as much as he did.
"Finally done hissing, lads?" Regulus asked, and Sala could see he was trying to avoid sneering.
"Seems like we're actual brothers," Sala said, deferring to not say what they really spoke about. "We will share the heirship."
"You're both a Parselmouth?" Remus asked, staring at them with an indiscernible gaze, the amber still shining in the depths of his eyes.
"Shouldn't you know if you claim this connection to Harry?" Ursa asked, finally speaking up.
"Perhaps all guests should come inside." A cold, gruff voice said from the doorway.
"Yes, Kreacher, prepare a tea service."
"I want him to swear first," Harry said.
"Make an unbreakable vow," Regulus said, nodding.
Remus looked at him hard, and Sala knew that, like Regulus feared, he recognised him.
"~We need to do something about how Regulus looks.~" Sala murmured to Harry, enjoying being able to speak to the boy in the serpent tongue, but then flinched, realising that Harry didn't know of Regulus' secret.
"~Maybe we can do it for all of us.~"
Sala released a sharp breath and nodded.
"I won't do an Unbreakable Vow," Remus said softly. "Not when you are all so young."
Sala scoffed but didn't say anything to contradict him.
"I will, however, swear on my magic that I will not harm any of you and will protect your secrets as well as become your Secret Keeper."
The boys nodded.
"I do, however, recommend that you allow me to call forth the others with you in the orphanage."
The adults.
Sala looked around, contemplating. Regulus had gone rigid. Ursa glared, sitting on the floor, leaning against the wall. And Harry wasn't looking at anyone, merely picking at his nails.
"~We have a place now; we can all stay together and make them swear that any and all adoptions or magical contracts of blood adoptions need to live here as a condition.~" Harry hissed to Sala, who nodded.
With the man before them being a werewolf, Sala gestured to Regulus to perform a charm that would give them privacy.
"Muffliato."
"We have privacy?" Sala asked.
The older boy nodded.
"If they come here, they all need to swear before they even step foot on these grounds. Maybe we should do it in writing."
Regulus bit his lip briefly, then inclined his head, agreeing.
Turning to the wolf, he said, "They will all need to swear the same vow as you if they are to come here. And they need to swear before they are given access to this castle." Regulus murmured but knew that Remus could hear him. "It will be a written contract, and no one who isn't given permission may know where we are, why we are here, or how we got here."
"Do we have an accord, wolf?" Sala asked, sneering.
"We do."
"Don't even try to go against us," Harry spoke up again, staring at Remus. "Reg-Lawrence is really fast with his knife."
Sala knew from the man's expression that he caught Harry's slip-up but didn't know what to do with it.
"You know what? You vow, but I feel better with my big brother being Secret Keeper." Ursa put in from his spot on the floor.
Remus pinched the bridge of his nose, sighing.
They walked inside, where Kreacher had happily set up a tea service.
He had arranged an exquisite array of delicate porcelain teacups and saucers with utmost care and precision, each adorned with intricate floral patterns. The aroma of freshly brewed tea filled the room as Kreacher presented a selection of fine teas, carefully sourced and steeped to perfection. Silver trays adorned with dainty pastries, scones, and finger sandwiches were artfully arranged, showcasing Kreacher's culinary craftsmanship. The room was transformed into a haven of warmth and elegance as the group indulged in the soothing ritual of tea, their spirits lifted by the gentle clinking of teacups and the harmonious chatter that accompanied the contract drafting process. It seemed that Kreacher had forced every single one of the Slytherin elves away as payback for dinner, but they agreed as he threatened them with their painful deaths at the hands of his Master.
Sala doubted Regulus would kill any of the elves but didn't bother correcting Kreacher, who finally looked pleased with something.
"What are the names of everyone that wants to come here?" Regulus asked, from where he had his quill poised over parchment.
"Severus Snape, Narcissa Black, Draco Black Malfoy, and —" Remus hesitated, glancing at Harry. "—Lily Evans."
"Alright."
The next few minutes were silent, as no one dared talk. Remembering how Harry had blown up earlier, he moved to the smaller boy and held him.
"It's ready," Regulus announced what felt like hours later.
He displayed the contract on the table where everyone gathered to read it.
CONTRACT FOR SECRECY AND PROTECTION
This Contract ("the Contract") is entered into between Regulus Lawrence Arcturus Prewett-Black ("The Secret Keeper") and the undersigned parties, Remus Lupin, Severus Snape, Narcissa Black, Draco Black Malfoy, and Lily Evans ("the Recipients"), collectively referred to as "the Parties," on this 2nd day of September 1989 (the "Effective Date").
WHEREAS, the Secret Keeper possesses knowledge of highly sensitive information regarding the hidden location of [Highclere Castle and its inhabitants] ("the Secret")
WHEREAS, the Recipients have expressed their desire to be entrusted with the Secret and provide their solemn commitment to maintain the secrecy and protect the Secret;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants set forth herein, the Parties agree as follows:
Confidentiality Obligations a. The Secret Keeper agrees to exclusively share the Secret with the Recipients for the purposes of protection and preservation. b. The Recipients shall maintain strict confidentiality of the Secret and shall not disclose or communicate the Secret to any other individuals or entities without the explicit written consent of the Secret Keeper. c. The Recipients shall exercise the utmost caution and take all necessary measures to ensure the secrecy and security of the Secret.
Non-Disclosure a. The Recipients shall refrain from any form of disclosure, whether written, spoken, or implied, that would compromise the secrecy and integrity of the Secret. b. The Recipients shall not discuss, share, or reveal the Secret in any public or private setting, including but not limited to conversations, writings, electronic communications, or any other means of communication.
Protection and Preservation a. The Recipients acknowledge their responsibility to protect and preserve the Secret from unauthorised access, theft, or disclosure. b. The Recipients shall employ reasonable security measures to prevent the Secret from falling into the wrong hands. c. The Recipients shall promptly notify the Secret Keeper of any suspected or actual breach of the secrecy or compromised security of the Secret.
Legilimency a. The Parties acknowledge that the Secret may be susceptible to detection through legilimency. b. In the event that any Party is subjected to legilimency, the Secret will automatically be magically wiped from the affected Party's mind to maintain its confidentiality and security whether the Secret Keeper finds out about it or not.
Term and Termination a. This Contract shall remain in effect indefinitely unless terminated by mutual agreement or by written notice from the Secret Keeper. b. In the event of termination, the Recipients shall immediately cease any use, disclosure, or reference to the Secret and shall return or destroy any related materials or information within their possession.
Governing Law and Jurisdiction a. This Contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Ministry of Magic. b. Any disputes arising out of or in connection with this Contract shall be submitted to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of [The Wizengamot Court].
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Contract as of the Effective Date.
Regulus Lawrence Arcturus Prewett-Black (Secret Keeper)
Remus Lupin
Severus Snape
Narcissa Black
Draco Black Malfoy
Lily Evans
The room fell into a hushed silence as Remus Lupin finished reading through the contract meticulously. His brow furrowed in concentration, and he absorbed the contents, evaluating the weight of the commitment they were about to make him embark upon. After a few moments of contemplation, he looked up at the expectant faces of Sala, Harry, Regulus, and Ursa.
He stared at Regulus with terrifying scrutiny, but the boy ignored him.
"Let everyone else read the contract. Once the others agree and sign it, you may call us by Floo." Sala said. "If they don't agree to read or sign it, they are not permitted to even be near you when you Floo call us.
Remus expressed his agreement with a determined nod, his voice laced with a blend of resolve and cautious optimism. "I believe this contract encapsulates our shared goals and ensures the secrecy and protection we seek. I am ready to commit myself to this endeavour."
"You can be the first to sign and make the vow, Remus," Regulus said, finally speaking up. "Then we will create the Fidelius, and you can return to them."
Sala watched as Remus crinkled his eyes but agreed and signed.
With unwavering determination, the group of friends convened to fulfil the final step in their mission: designating Regulus as the Secret Keeper. Each of them understood the weight of this decision, the trust that would be placed upon Regulus to protect and conceal their vital knowledge of the location of Highclere Castle. They gathered in a secluded room, the air thick with anticipation and a shared sense of purpose. Regulus still had his knife, flipping it around in his hand with chilling accuracy. Sala reckoned it was just in case Remus might bolt before they were finished.
Regulus stood at the centre, his gaze steady and resolute. Sala, Harry, and Ursa surrounded him, their expressions displaying support and trepidation. Remus Lupin, his presence an embodiment of wisdom and guidance, offered a comforting presence at Regulus's side. Though somehow, Sala didn't think the boy found it relaxing. Regulus didn't trust easily.
As they began the ancient ritual, the room was suffused with solemnity. Regulus extended his hand, palm upturned, while each of the others placed a hand atop his, symbolising their trust and unity. They closed their eyes, their minds focused on the seriousness of the situation.
Whispers of incantations filled the room as they invoked the ancient magic that would bind the Secret to Regulus's very being. Their voices intertwined, harmonising in a symphony of determination and loyalty. The weight of the Secret flowed through their connected hands, pulsing with unseen energy.
"By the ancient forces that govern secrecy and the bond that unites us as one, We invoke the magic that binds Regulus Lawrence Arcturus Prewett-Black as the chosen Secret Keeper. With clasped hands and hearts intertwined, united by trust and loyalty, let the essence of the hidden truth flow into his very core, merging and entwining. As the knowledge takes root in his spirit, cloaked in the veils of secrecy profound, May his essence become the vessel, the guardian and protector of our secret bound. Embraced by ancient spells and enchanted ties, the Secret Keeper shall stand. With unwavering devotion and unyielding resolve, he shall protect with his command. May this sacred pact forever hold, sealed by the mystical bonds of trust, And as the ritual concludes, our secret remains hidden, preserved, and just."
In that ephemeral moment, the transfer of knowledge occurred, the mantle of secrecy settling upon Regulus' shoulders. A white, golden flash of light surrounded him, and he gasped. Sala wanted to tell him he looked beautiful but didn't dare. The once-hidden information merged with his consciousness, becoming an intrinsic part of him. Sala could see the moment Regulus felt the weight of responsibility settle deep within, fuelling his resolve to protect their collective truth at any cost. His eyes tightened, his fists clenched, and his possessive gaze covered the three of them almost harshly.
As the ritual concluded, they opened their eyes, the gravity of their actions mirrored in their gaze. They stood in a circle, bound by a shared secret, a pact that would forever link them. The air crackled with a renewed sense of purpose and an unyielding commitment to safeguard the truth they held.
Regulus, the newly anointed Secret Keeper, spoke with a voice brimming with determination. "I swear to you all that I will bear this burden with honour and unwavering dedication. The Secret shall remain locked within me, guarded against all threats."
I wonder if this will change him.
Sala, Harry, and Ursa nodded in unison. Their collective trust had been placed in Regulus, knowing he possessed the strength of character and resilience to carry this responsibility.
Remus, his eyes shining with pride, stepped forward. "Regulus, your commitment and loyalty inspire us all. Together, we will face the challenges ahead, united by our shared purpose. May our trust in one another guide us through the darkest of times."
Pish posh Sala thought so many fancy words and not enough action.
The bonds of trust and resilience solidified at that moment, forming an unbreakable shield against the dangers that loomed. The Secret Keeper had been chosen, and their path forward was clear. They embraced the future with resolve, prepared to protect their secret and face whatever trials lay ahead.
"Don't forget to tell them that part of the deal for coming here is that they must live here if they want to do any kind of adoption or blood adoption." Sala reminded Remus as he got up to leave.
Sala saw Regulus go over to Remus and whisper something in his ear but didn't know what. The older man looked over at Harry, a look of anguish notable before it disappeared, and he vanished through the Floo, holding in his hand the parchment that Regulus had scribbled their location.
"The hidden refuge at Highclere Castle is located in Highclere Park, Newbury,"
With a renewed sense of purpose, the group decided to wait for Remus to contact them through the Floo Network, wondering if the others who had seen them disappear by the orphanage would be willing to take on such an oath. They gathered around the fireplace, their eyes fixed on the flickering flames, eagerly awaiting the moment when Remus would reach out, and all hell would likely break loose again.
Minutes stretched into what felt like an eternity, each passing second filled with anticipation and restless energy. The boys exchanged glances, their minds abuzz with thoughts and questions. Ursa shifted nervously, his eyes reflecting excitement and trepidation. Harry, a calming presence amidst the restlessness, offered a reassuring smile, his unwavering trust evident in his eyes, and Sala vowed to harm anyone who removed it from Harry's face.
Regulus had clutched his blade so hard it cut into his skin again, though he didn't seem to notice. Wincing for him, Sala approached the older boy and gently unclenched his fist, holding the Regulus' hand in his until it stopped trembling.
Finally, the familiar sound of crackling flames filled the room, and green sparks erupted from the fireplace. As the emerald glow enveloped the hearth, the tension dissipated, replaced by a sense of hopeful and wary anticipation. They held their breath, waiting for the voice that would bridge the gap between their current reality and the path that lay ahead. Adoption. Or even blood adoption. It would either be a new beginning or the beginning of the end….
With a soft roar, Remus emerged from the fireplace, his presence commanding and yet filled with warmth. The lines of fatigue etched upon his face were offset by the determined gleam in his eyes. He met their gazes, his voice carrying a blend of gratitude and unwavering commitment.
"Thank you for your trust and dedication," Remus began, his voice filled with appreciation. "We have a long road ahead, but I believe in our ability to protect what we hold dear. Together, we will face the challenges that lie ahead and preserve the secrets that must be safeguarded."
Sala could see Harry rolling his eyes and muttering, "Adult talk." Despite the situation, a grin fell over his features at Harry's typical comment, which immediately vanished when more people came through the Floo Network. They must have all signed.
Narcissa came through first, elegantly avoiding ash or dust on her stylish robes. She sought him out first, but he kept his eyes downward, unprepared for change. Draco came next; his cheek had returned to the same pale as it always was. His reaction to the place was similar to what theirs had been, shock, awe, and eagerness.
Severus came next, but he came with Lilly, whose eyes were red-rimmed and tearful, and when she set sights on Harry this time, she burst into fresh tears. It looked like she wanted to say something, but Severus squeezed her hand tightly, and she refrained.
What the hell?
Harry all but glared and ignored both of them, which Sala thought was fair. But if he was honest, he was in a similar situation. It would have been Narcissa who was supposed to raise him, but instead, here was Draco, who had grown up with everything, love and comfort, while Sala had been brought up by a house elf until the day Talby had brought him to an orphanage of all places.
"Now that we are all here, and—" Severus sneered loathingly at them, "—had signed your little contract."
His eyes travelled over them but stopped at Regulus, whose hand started trembling again. Sala glared at Severus, who dared to make Regulus afraid. But when Sala glanced at Regulus, he didn't look scared; he was…defeated.
"Would you like to tell me," the man drawled. "Why is Regulus Black here and the Secret Keeper of Highclere Castle?"
"Why shouldn't he be here?" Harry spoke up indignantly, joining him and Regulus in their small huddle, Ursa following quickly after, clearly not wishing to be alone.
"Because."
"No, Severus…" Regulus murmured — begged, rather, but Severus ignored him.
"Regulus died in 1979."
End note: Please offer your thoughts! I am not using a beta (as I don't have one), so any mistakes, please refer them to me so I can correct them.