Regulus looked at the undisguised fanaticism in Bellatrix's eyes, and felt nothing.
For someone like Bellatrix, family meant nothing. Only shared goals and interests could sustain a relationship.
And that goal and interest was loyalty to Voldemort.
Following Bellatrix's lead, he said, "My cousin is right. I'll work hard to improve myself and live up to the expectations of the family and the Dark Lord."
Positive feedback—not too much, not too little, just enough to satisfy Bellatrix's expectations.
Sure enough, Bellatrix smiled even more brightly. "I knew you were the sensible one! Far better than that idiot Sirius!
Once you're a little older, we'll serve the Dark Lord together and let everyone know just how formidable the Blacks and Lestranges are!"
After exchanging a few pleasantries with Bellatrix and Rodolphus, Regulus took the opportunity to excuse himself.
He could feel quite a few gazes settling on him. His performance at Hogwarts, coupled with the Black family's standing, had made him a promising prospect worth courting at this banquet.
And now, he also had Voldemort's attention.
Some looked at him with genuine admiration, some with calculating scrutiny, and others with concealed hostility, but all of it was within his expectations.
"Regulus." Lucius's voice came from behind him.
Regulus turned around. "Lucius."
"Care to talk alone?" Lucius stepped aside and gestured toward the terrace on the west side of the main hall.
Regulus nodded and followed. Narcissa had somehow come over as well, standing beside Lucius as though she were there to witness the conversation.
The wind on the terrace carried a chill, lifting the hem of Narcissa's white robes. The distant garden lay serene beneath the moonlight.
Lucius leaned against the terrace railing, idly turning his wineglass between his fingers.
He first glanced toward the main hall before speaking slowly, his