Disclaimer: I do not own the HP universe-that's J.K. Rowling's.

AN: Yes. I have been a lazy cauldron bum. But here's the next chapter. I know you guys liked me for having long chapters, but for my own sake I'm going to shorten them down. By doing so, I can have more updates more often.

Chapter 5: Easter Interludes

Dear Journal,

My brother keeps going on and on about his new friends. He acts like they're the best, most fun people ever. And that they're really smart. That doesn't mean a lot to me. Bella's the smartest person I know. She knows the most curses and spells out of everyone. And from personal experience, I find smart and mean go together.

Dear Journal,

I don't know what's happening but Siri isn't writing so much anymore. He must be really busy with schoolwork. Now I'm really bored. It's bad enough that I'm stuck at home while he's out having fun. But now we can't gang up and prank the tutor anymore. Not to mention that this latest one is the worst. He's boring me to death with all the history facts. Blech!

Dear Journal,

My brother finally wrote again. And it was the shortest message ever. It basically said to stop calling him Siri. That it's childish. I guess that Potter kid saw it and teased him. I don't get what the big deal is. He's always been Siri and I'm Reggie. That was the other weird thing. The note was to: Regulus. No one calls me that 'cept Aunt Druella 'cause she's stuffy.

Salem sighed, shifting uncomfortably in his seat. He almost didn't want to continue. It was rough. He was practically watching his brother's opinion of him sink. But, alas, this was the most convenient time to read. There was no fear of Regulus catching him and asking pointed questions.

He sighed again and ran a hand through his hair. It had always been so easy to say that Reggie didn't understand what his life was like. And it was true; Reg didn't see the cruelty of the Black family's ways. He didn't see how unfair their prejudices were. But, to be fair, Sirius never quite grasped life from his brother's view either. All the intricate etiquette of the elite never made an impression on him.

So, realizing that he was never going to fit in, Sirius simply chose to rebel—hard. He downed their heritage, insulted their relatives, and purposely caused havoc whenever he could...and not the innocent little pranks he and Reg played when they were younger; the malicious sort.

It all wound up screaming: I don't want to be a Black!

Funny, you know, his punk attitude was really aimed at their parents. But it looked like Regulus got the full blast of it.

He seemed to have noticed Sirius's growling coldness immediately…and took it personally.

And why not? Reg pretty much embodied everything that he'd never be.

Dear Journal,

Tonight was my first Halloween without Siri—excuse me Sirius—it felt weird. I dressed up as a vampire. I looked great. Everyone said so. Mum, and Dad, and I went to a party and everyone said I looked "formidable." Even Uncle Alphard said I was a great vampire; I was surprised he talked to me. (I always thought Siri was-sorry-Sirius was his favorite.)

A few more entries followed with more wonderings about a wayward brother and curiosity: whether the staircases really changed or had trick steps, whether the ceiling in the Great Hall really looked like the sky, whether there really was a dragon in the dungeons that ate a Slytherin every year.

Dear Journal,

I just can't figure it out. If the letters are anything to go by, then I just don't know where my brother is. I'm almost afraid of who Hogwarts is going to send back. It's only been three and a half months since I've seen Sirius, but he sounds so different in his letters. He's always boasting about his friends and complaining about our family. Sheesh who complains at Christmas time? It's my favorite time of year. All of our family's getting together. Hopefully, the festivity will cheer Siri up. I just love Christmas.

Salem sighed. He hadn't gone home that year. Much to his mother's outrage, he'd opted to stay at Hogwarts with James and Remus. They'd had a blast. In fact, he had such a good time, he hadn't thought about Reg at all except to send his gift off.

Still, Salem tried to justify himself, Reg loved family get-togethers—everyone always cooed over the youngest Black—last male heir sporting the family name. He probably had a great time. In fact, the next page was probably brimming with good ventures.

Oh, the next page was brimming with something alright, but it wasn't yuletide jolliness.

There was only one line scrawled messily across the page: I hate Christmas.

Salem noted with distress the great blotches of tears that stained the message. And smears of something that looked uncannily like blood. He flipped through several pages, but no explanation was offered. He checked and rechecked and tapped his wand but to no avail.

Whatever had occurred that Christmas, Regulus took it with him to the grave.

Salem gasped slightly at the way the thought hit him.

It was hard to think that someone he'd talked to a few days ago was dead. Cold dead. Been dead for nearly twenty years.

As far as he knew, Reggie had no grave. Well…he had a plot and a marker but…he'd overheard some Death Eaters say they never recovered his body. They'd chuckled, saying it obviously meant that there wasn't enough of him left after the Dark Lord was through with him.

In spite of his deeply rooted grudges, Sirius prayed they were wrong. After all, Reggie was as cunning as they came, if anyone could think a way out of his death, it'd be his brother.

He'd gone home after that shift and scrounged around for a very old two way mirror; one that he'd owned long before Hogwarts. He whispered his brother's name to it. Nothing but darkness responded.

He'd lost track of the times, he'd sat in his cell— mind kept playing their last words to each other over and over.

"Trust you? Trust you, Sirius? How on earth could I manage that?"

"So you're just going to throw your life away?"

There was silence and then, "Goodbye, Brother."

And all he could say was: "You're no brother of mine."

And he was reported dead later that week and the words kept repeating endlessly.

The dementors really enjoyed taunting him with that one.

They were awful words that tasted like ash every time he thought of them.

"Sirius?"

Salem jumped up and nearly knocked into the half-moon spectacled face of the headmaster.

"Sorry to give you a start." Dumbledore smiled.

"N-no, I just..." Salem shook his head and cleared his throat. "It's nothing, just thinking."

The elderly man smiled and beckoned him forth. "I think our conversation should continue in my office.

Salem nodded and quickly pocketed the diary.

"You would be justified in feeling lost, alone, and out-of-place. But I ask that you take comfort in knowing that you are not the first to fall through seams in the fabric of time."

"Cut to the chase. Does it normally end well?"

"It's difficult to say. Some content themselves with their new lives. Others try to return to their original life. And others…get caught in a loop."

"A loop?"

"More or less. It's proper name is Chronos Oroborosem. It's where an individual becomes 'locked' into a certain era. They go through the same motions over and over again. A sort of spiraling trap one never escapes save death."

"Cheery prospect. Let me guess, those who try to return to their time normally wind up in one."

"Tragically so. But let us not dwell on pasts and futures. Let's focus on the present. I hear from Professor Binns, you're a little rusty on your history?"

During the break, they met daily, but the headmaster never asked on news of the future, though Salem was bursting to share precious information.

Instead, Dumbledore inquired as to how Salem was settling down, whether his fellow housemates were accepting him, did he think they should serve more raspberry jam at breakfast?

"Dumbledore, what do you think about Regulus A. Black?"

The elderly man paused a moment, pushed up his glasses, and sighed.

"Ahh, yes. Your brother. Quite a mysterious figure. Rather silent and brooding in most of his classes—I fear that has put him at odds with several professors, but Mysterio counters their claims most emphatically. A very gifted seeker. I'd dare say a Charms Master. A very frail constitution. And a seemingly irrational fear of potion-making."

"Fear? No, it's just incompetence."

"Is it?"

Salem closed his mouth, his brow furrowing—but what could his brother have to fear from brewing a drought?

"But what could he be afraid of? And why are you so sure?"

"I monitored the Third Years' Potions Exam last year, as Mr. Avery was so unfortunate as to need Professor Slughorn's aid in combating a serious reaction to acromantula venom. We have some very potent arachnids in the forest. One of the reasons why the Dark Forest is strictly forbidden to students." At this, he gave Salem a stern look.

"..."

"Anyway, as I watched the students brewing, I couldn't help but notice that young Mr. Black had gone terribly pale."

"Well, what was wrong?"

"I don't know, he refused to think about it, fumbled through his drought and fled the chamber. It was most disconcerting. I've tried to broach the subject several times, but to no avail."

Salem was silent for a few moments, struggling with a question that had been burning within him for a while.

"Is he worth the time I'm spending with him? Is he good?" All this time that he was investing with his brother, was it all worth it? Or was it only going to cause more pain when Regulus followed the Dark Lord to his death?

"Is anyone? I fear at birth no one is simply labeled 'Good' or 'Bad.' Regulus will be what he chooses to be. And in the end he will decide what is right for him."

"Well, I don't want him to choose wrong."

"Sirius, what he does with his life is his-"

"I don't want him choosing wrong again."

"What is meant to be, will be Sirius."

"…He's not all bad, for a Slytherin. I mean…he's not out saving kittens from trees and putting out burning orphanages, but…he's not…I don't want…I-I just…Dumbledore, do you think…I was sent back for a reason?"

"You enter dangerous territory, Sirius."

"Yes, time loops." He waved a dismissive hand. "But still, isn't that danger worth it, if it means that my actions could spare countless innocent lives?"

"Ahh, a Gryffindor at heart."

Salem stood. "I-I need some time alone."

"Understood."

He was almost out the door when Dumbledore stated, "Sirius, remember this. Being sly or cunning is not an evil trait. Ambition is not the same as greed. And knowing who your real friends are proves essential in times of crisis."

He dreamed of sunflowers and blood.

The petals were drowning in the crimson liquid as it rained in torrents...blotting out all light. The blossoms wilted—buckling under the weight.

And soon all the world was red. In the midst of all the bloodshed, someone was laughing.

Regulus woke drenched in sweat. And he jerked back as he noted the two large eyes near him.

"Kreacher is sorry that he startled the young Master. But Master told Kreacher to wake him early."

Regulus swallowed, trying to regain his composure. "Yes. Thank you, Kreacher,"

He shuffled down the hallway and quietly opened the door to his parents' bedroom. All was silent. Good. His mother hadn't woken yet.

He closed the door shut and crept back to his room.

After a brief shower, he dressed and made his way to the kitchen.

He spent the morning at the table with the Daily Prophet and a pair of scissors close at hand. Mother would cringe if she saw what he was doing. Cutting out coupons…like a commoner.

He sighed as he gathered the slips of paper and stuffed them in his wallet. Ugh, it burned.

He walked over to the hall closet and fetched his travelling cloak. He slipped it on before suddenly stopping and resting his forehead against the wall.

God, it all seemed so hopeless. Anyone with any influence would soon realize that the Black Family was in shambles.

Still, if nothing else, he needed to keep up the charade. And just maybe he could last long enough. His father could straighten everything out when he was finally released. Until then, he just had to endure.

He took a deep breath and left for the outside world—ready to face it and all its treacheries.

God, and he thought the time he walked through Diagon Alley with a frog in his pocket was awkward.

Somehow the reality of having only twelve sickles in his pocket left him feeling rather vulnerable. He definitely wouldn't be eating out today.

As he made his way, he discreetly checked the displays for any of the items he'd seen on the coupons he had tucked away.

Ugh, window shopping. How the mighty had fallen. Regulus sighed and stuck his hands in his pockets.

He reluctantly entered Flourish and Blotts. He had to get more parchment for school, unless he wanted to bum some off of Snape. He shook his head, a Black having to ask for help…it was disgraceful.

After he'd selected his chosen items for purchase, he shuffled towards the cashier.

"Charge it to the Black tab," Regulus mumbled. The wizard stared at him. The Blacks always paid in hard coins. Always. Regulus raised his eyes, daring the man to question him. The man quickly looked back down and bagged the item.

Regulus took his bag and left the shop, trying to suppress the shame he was feeling.

With his head held high, he walked out of Diagon Alley and towards Borgin and Burkes.

He didn't make it far.

"Ahh, young Regulus Black," a voice drawled.

The boy stiffened in recognition. "Lucius Malfoy," he stated without turning.

A firm hand rested on his shoulder. "Let's take a walk, shall we?"

Regulus was redirected back towards Diagon Alley.

The two strolled in silence before coming to a stop in front of Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour. He motioned to the iron stairs leading up towards the balcony.

Once there, Lucius smiled. "Perhaps we should go somewhere more private?" He indicated to another flight of stairs. "You know, where we can discuss more delicate matters?"

Regulus very reluctantly followed him up to the roof. He had the distinct feeling of what it must feel like to be a lamb before the slaughter. Or maybe a fly duped into a spider's lair.

"We won't be bothered here," Lucius announced pleasantly, his tailored boots clacking harshly on the concrete surface.

Regulus suppressed a sigh. You know he'd really been hoping that the day would go smoothly.

"You know?" Lucius started suddenly. "Until precisely two and a half months ago, I was unaware that Rostings was a legitimate surname endowed with the prestige of possible Pureblood relations. I find that troubling, don't you? Being brought up in houses such as ours, we have extensive knowledge of our fellow Pureblood lines. And yet there is no trace of a wizard known as Salem Rostings."

Regulus shrugged a shoulder. "Perhaps he changed it?"

"And why should he do that? What does he have to hide?"

The young Black released a mirthless laugh. "Really, Lucius, don't even broach that subject. Rumor has it Malfoy Manor possesses a secret room for all your controversial materials. Unless you can stand before me and shed light on all your skeletons, I'm not going to begrudge him his."

The man's lips pursed and his nostrils flared but he made no response.

"Or…" Regulus hesitated, taking a breath. "Or it's quite possible he's illegitimate. Whatever the case, it's his tale to tell. He's given me no reason to suspect him of dark intentions."

"How trusting of you, or should I say…how naïve."

"Have you any other reason for gracing me with your presence?" Regulus sighed rubbing the bridge of his nose. Lucius was a person he could only take in small doses. He'd never understand why Cissy favored him.

"As you already know, Narcissa and I are engaged to be married. She's quite fond of you. I am simply doing my duty as her husband-to-be and seeing to it that her favourite cousin remains unscathed."

"Oh really?"

"It's a dangerous world out there, boy. It would be in your best interest to have some powerful allies."

"I'm sure it will also cost a hefty price."

"Not at all. See, it's also reached our attention that a certain Sirius Black has been badgering you."

"Ugh, that oaf! He and his scummy friends just won't leave me be."

Lucius smiled.

"What?"

"Just glad to see you haven't softened your opinion of that filthy bloodtraitor. Bella and Cissa were worried."

Regulus eyed him curiously. "Was that some sort of test?"

He felt oddly used. Being monitored for his every feeling. God, like he was the one to worry about when Cissy was marrying a snake and Bella had likely found her calling with fellow lunatics.

Lucius patted him on the head. "Just reaffirming where your loyalties lie. I'll send a doctor to treat your mother later tonight."

Regulus gasped and turned back around, but his future cousin had already Apparated away.

How did he know? Maybe Grimmauld Place wasn't as well guarded as his father intended. If that was the case, he needed to put up some more wards. Immediately.

He pulled out his special galleon—a two headed one Sirius had found back in their childhood.

He flipped the coin high, reached out his hand, and snatched it from the air—instantly vanishing from the rooftop and heading back to Grimmauld.

The Marauders' Easter had been quite enjoyable. They divided their time between playing Quidditch and gorging themselves on chocolate eggs.

It had been on a whim that they travelled to Diagon Alley.

Remus naturally spent a good hour in Flourish and Blotts before they dragged him out.

James and Sirius marvelled at the new shipments in Quality Quidditch Supplies—enthusiastically examining new gloves and goggles. They both left with new equipment and a lightened mood, eager for Gryffindor's next match.

James grinned at his best mate. It seemed like it'd been ages since he'd seen Sirius in such a good mood. Ever since Regulus had started entering the scene, Sirius's anxiety had escalated.

It almost made him wonder if he should try convincing Sirius to just drop the kid and focus on his own life. An ominous sense of gloom seemed to be hanging over the Black Family lately, and he didn't want Sirius getting caught up in it.

"We're going to win the House Cup," James announced cheerfully. "I can feel it. It'll be the perfect occasion."

"For what?"

"For asking Lily out…again."

Remus rolled his eyes and stopped in his tracks.

"What's wrong, Moony?"

For a moment Remus faltered and James glanced at him in concern. Remus bit his lip and cautiously glanced at Sirius.

"What is it?"

Normally, he'd ignore the boy, since Sirius seemed to loathe him. But lately…

"Is that Regulus on top of that building?" Remus pointed. Sirius whipped around.

Sure enough, there was his younger brother. And judging from his gesticulations he wasn't alone.

"Let's just see what he's up to," Sirius declared.

"You know, Pads, stalking your brother just isn't at the top of my to-do list. Now, if you'd like to figure out Evans's comings and goings then I'm with you. I think she sometimes helps out at a shop but I don't know which-"

"I know he's up to something."

"Pads," James protested but his friend was already making his way towards the building.

At breakneck speed, Sirius began clambering up the stairs with his fellow marauders close behind.

Finally making it up to the roof, Sirius slammed the door open but-

"He's gone," Peter stated in astonishment from under Sirius's arm.

"He can't be," Sirius muttered, coming out of the doorway and exploring the area.

"We just came up the only staircase leading out here. We'd have seen him. There's no way he could just disappear. He's too young to apparate," James argued.

Sirius hesitantly glanced over the side of the building. "O-okay. Not there either."

Noticing his friends' stares, he shrugged. "I-I was just checking."

Remus's eyes narrowed as he thought aloud, "Disappearing without a trace. Without a noise. Without a penalty from the Ministry. Sirius?"

The elder Black glanced at him uncertainly.

"Regulus, he's good at charms, right?"

"I suppose so."

"How good?"

"Always got Os in that class. It just always got kinda overshadowed by the Ps in Potions."

Remus nodded, contemplatively. He wasn't ready to voice his theory, knowing how absurd it sounded: after all, what would a fourth year know about making portkeys?

Read and Review Please :D