Always (SNILY): Angst, Multiple POV, Dark Romance

Chapter Thirteen

The rooms of Severus' residence felt wet and cavernous as Lily and Sirius apparated in. Multiple cauldrons sat side by side, their contents bubbling within, sending wisps of emerald smoke up from their depths. Tomes and tinctures lay sprawled along the table with all manner of ingredients and herbs amongst them. It was another intimate glimpse into Severus' life that Lily felt somewhat uncomfortable beholding. It was as if she was peering into a protected, youthful part of him. He was a paintbrush for a muse as ancient as the tempest brewing within her... and she didn't know how to feel about that.

"Looks like no one's here," Sirius broke the silence, scuffing his heels along the stoned flooring "and... this place is about as welcoming as I'd expect it to be."

Severus' choice of demure décor was dark and minimal, but the bookshelves that lined every wall, overwhelmed with texts; the stone hearth that often warmed the space; the worn leather of the armchairs... it was cozy, and Lily had grown to love it.

"Coming from a Black, that is saying something." Lily laughed. "I...would be careful what you touch, though. There's bound to be a dark artifact or two lounging around here."

"Ah, well that I am used to." Sirius eased towards the hearth to ignite it. "I sometimes wonder what would have become of me if I stayed living in that house..." Sirius began playing with a ring on his ringer, twisting it in anxious thought.

Sirius had left his childhood home years ago, choosing to sleep on couches rather than be associated with his family. Lily admired Sirius' strength... she related to him in ways she related to few others. He knew what it meant to be an outcast.

"You would have found your way... you always have." Lily came beside her friend, running a hand along his back, "You really ought to give Regulus a chance. I won't push you, but... he's the Regulus we've always known and loved."

Sirius continued staring blankly at the now vibrant fire, his features disfigured in thought, "We should get to work. We only have a few days to make sense of your plan..." Sirius turned towards Lily, changing the subject "which, if I might remind you, is completely mental. It's not too late to go back on it. You don't have to go in those wards, Lily."

Lily felt as her body began pulsing with emotion. "I do, though. It... means something to me." Lily stood a few feet from her friend, her hands clenching on her side. "You know how it is, Sirius. I've never fit in... in either world. In the muggle world, I'm a freak and here I'm a filthy mudblood. I'm angry. I want... to fight. To stand up for what I believe in. To whatever end."

Sirius nodded in understanding and Lily was grateful he didn't push the subject. "It will be the last time they underestimate us, Lily. To whatever end."

"What a heartwarming sentiment, brother." Regulus' voice rang through the hollow space, jolting them. The air around them suddenly thick with tension. "Will I be awarded such a familiar welcome?"

Regulus stood in the shadows of the adjoining chamber, picking at his nails. His robes hung heavy on the length of his body, falling on the floor beneath him. He must have changed since this morning because these robes were fitted and elegant.

"When the hell did you get here?" Lily shot towards him.

"Who me?" Regulus joked, "Been here the whole bloody time. You really ought to work on your skills of discernment, brother. I was going to say something earlier, but then... you got to talking and it really was just too... sweet."

Sirius rolled his eyes, his features still somewhat softened in the light of the fire. "I'm going to need some food before we break into this old chestnut."

Regulus let out a low laugh, walking into the illuminated space between them. "Oh, C'mon, I'm the same Regulus you know and love." Regulus winked at Lily.