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Happy Holidays, darling! <3
...and I've been dying to come back to the Regulus fic, anyway, because HELLO he's adorable. ;)
But, wait a minute. SHE WHAT? OH my lord. You're going to break my heart with this, aren't you? Ugh, I can feel the heartbreak already. It's just such a terrible situation, and of course it would seem foreign to Regulus. Plus the concept that he can't admit to himself (or her) the possibility of him actually being alright is absolutely disheartening (while still being sweet in the sense that Regulus dreads something happening to her so much that he can't cope with the idea that there's a big chance that she's not going to be alright) :(.
Plus, the idea that he's debating visiting her because he recognizes that he's used their friendship selfishly and that now SHE needs HIM, but is holding back for personal convictions is killing me. And, I mean, it has to be said that his rationale of spending holidays with loved ones and not in a hospital is off since someone he clearly cares for is going to be in said hospital is lacking -- I'm definitely going to have to shake this boy into his senses. And, of course, there's also the idea of what Christmas usually means to him, and how its changed since Sirius left... ;_; it's going to be a very sad Christmas.
I do love how it has all prompted Regulus to ask what Christmastime usually means for Summer, however. And that he got to meet her parents...this is just setting things up for a bigger heartbreak and it's going to be really difficult for Regulus if she doesn't go back to Hogwarts this term. And for Summer... I mean, this THING is growing between she and Regulus and she just had brain surgery and she can't even be with her best friend. :( Plus, the entire dynamic back at home -- having to hide everything with Summer for his own sake and everything going on with the Dark Lord. Regulus has to suffer alone.
And then there's the entire idea of Regulus sending letters to both Summer and her mother because Summer isn't telling Regulus everything. I'm not sure if it's to try to shield him from the truth -- her way of protecting him -- or for her own sake, to try to forget that things are beyond not okay (to feel a sense of normalcy in at least ONE minute aspect of her life)...or both. It's so sweet that Summer's mother can see how much Summer means to Regulus so much so as to fill him in on how she's actually doing... or maybe because Summer's mother needs someone to talk to herself, as her own personal way of dealing with what's happening.
Everything. Is. So. Sad.
But I love how you tied Summer's seemingly inevitable passing into how Regulus began researching and finding concepts like The Deathly Hallows and Horcruxes, which will eventually tie into how he figures out what the Dark Lord has planned. Oh my gosh, Kristin -- this is so clever...and so sad.
And her devotion through their friendship to remain by his side even though he tells her that he's a full-fledged Death Eater. AND THE END OF SUMMER. The poetics. I can't with this. I'm going to be an absolute mess come the next chapter because I can feel what's coming.
This is such a wonderful fic -- it's absolutely beautiful! <3
-Rumpels
Author's Response:Rumpels ♥♥♥ Thank you so much!
Agh, yeah, sorry, this is probably my most depressing fic. I even broke Rose's heart with it - the #1 heartbreaker herself - if that tells you anything :-/
this is such a good analysis of this chapter! I really appreciate the depth with which you read this and how things are changing for Regulus. And yeah, it's taking time for him... but he gets there.
Re: Summer's letters that don't say everything - I think it is a bit of both, yeah. I'm really glad you liked that Regulus was corresponding with both of them. In a way I think Summer's mother is kind of a stand in for the mother Regulus never had. I mean, Regulus has a mother, of course, but that relationship is kind of strained with all the deep emotions Regulus is struggling with that he can't show to his real family.
Ah, thank you! I'm so glad you liked how Summer's story ties in with the Horcruxes and the Hallows.
I was really proud of the last few lines of this chapter so I appreciate that you called them poetic - thank you. And yeah, I'm sure you know exactly what's coming - this is a story about Regulus' change of heart, after all, and we know where that ends. Yeah. So, if you're looking for a fluffy, holiday fic.... this is not it.
Thank you sooo much for this amazing, thoughtful review. I appreciate it so much and I'm thrilled to hear the story called 'beautiful' - thank you so much! ♥♥♥♥♥
[I meant to review the last chapter right after the second one, but then I got sleepy and took a nap, so it’s a little delayed. Apologies! I do sleep too much though. Anyway, onto the review!]
OH WHAT. I totally misinterpreted the ending of the chapter. I thought it meant that she was still in the process of dying, and not that she actually died. This first line stabbed me through the heart, mostly because I wasn’t expecting it to be so sudden, and I was pretty much just grieving alongside Regulus.
But oh my god, this ending was so well-written. This story just kept getting better and better and better, and the ending had me locked in my seat, just riveted at what was going on. I love the detail of the Dark Lord using Kreacher as his puppet (unless that was canon? I’m so terrible with HP details I can’t even remember) because that just fits so perfectly, doesn’t it? House elves are “less than human” and therefore “should” be treated as such, and so it’s fitting that the Dark Lord treats one as a disposable thing.
Regulus seeing the deaths of Summer’s parents was so heartbreaking, I wasn’t expecting that at all. It reminded me of when Anne was giving Regulus motherly pieces of advice, and that made me want to cry. I love the way that scene is written, when Regulus refuses to finish the job but then they end up dead anyway, so he starts crying. And then Regulus seeing Summer in the last moments of his life?? Oh, that was so painful. (Kreacher offering to drink to prevent his master from suffering also gave me a bunch of feelings sldfkjsl.)
KRISTIN THIS WAS SO GOOD WHAT EVEN. <3
~Eva
Author's Response:You didn't misinterpret the ending. I did it that way on purpose. After all, even when you know what's coming and you're prepared for it, you're still never ready when it actually happens, at least in my experience.
Thank you so much, I'm so glad to hear you thought the ending was well written and that it just kept getting better! So, the fact that Kreacher was the one who went with Voldemort to the cave the first time is canon (Kreacher talks about it in DH in the chapter "Kreacher's Tale", IIRC?) so I kind of took the bits of that story and fleshed it out. But yeah, it's so sad and yet so believable that Voldemort would do that and not consider the feelings or fears of a house-elf.
Oof, yeah that was a hard scene to write. But it had to be something really terrible to push Regulus over the edge and show his true colors in the end. Thank you for saying you loved how it was written, though! <3 omg yeah Kreacher kind of broke my heart in this too.
THANK YOU SO MUCH <3 <3
Back! <3
Two things before I get started: (1) “syzygy” is actually one of my favorite words, and though I admittedly did not know the definition before reading the chapter summary, I’ve seen it before and it’s one of the coolest-looking words out there, and (2) the title of this story is called “When Summer Fades” which I have just realized almost guarantees bad things happening to Summer. Which is not good for my happiness haha. PLEASE LET SUMMER BE AT LEAST SEMI-OKAY??
[I have now read the chapter.]
NO. NO. KRISTIN, WHY MUST YOU DO THIS TO ME. Oh Summer, I just want to give her millions of hugs, and I wish more than anything that wizards had some form of treatment to help cancer. Life must be really, really difficult for her, and that just makes feel so sad for her, because she’s that type of person who deserves the sun and moon (and a unicorn haha) and everything.
I was surprised when Regulus actually offered to go visit her in the hospital, and then followed through with it. Like brother, like brother! Though perhaps I shouldn’t have been surprised, because Regulus has been changing a lot as a person, and obviously he relies a lot on Summer for emotional support so it makes sense that he returns all the help she’s been giving him. IT STILL HURTS, THOUGH. WHY SUMMER?
That last line was beautiful but also scares me a lot. I just. Summer’s not going to survive, is she? I’ve just been deluding myself, haven’t I. *cries*
Last chapter!
~Eva
Author's Response:Haha yay! Syzygy is probably my fave word of all time and I had way too much fun with the astronomy and seasonal themes in this fic.
Yeah... I'm sorry. This fic is really sad. I feel like there should be an advisory for breaking readers' hearts.
I was so proud of Regulus, he really has changed so much because that's such a big step for him to take that he would have thought impossible months ago.
Thanks for your comment about the last line, I think that's one of my favorite lines in the whole story despite its sad implications, so I'm glad it stood out to you.
Thanks so much for your review!
HI KRISTIN.
The tiebreaker rounds for the Golden Chalices gave me an extended opportunity to actually sit down and review this! Which I shall, right now.
Okay so what I love about this story is that you’ve established firmly that these two have a strong friendship, and nothing more. And also I love people like Summer, who have hugs for everyone, who give so many smiles to so many people… They are the best kinds of people, and I love meeting them in real life. I would honestly do anything to become friends with Summer, so it makes sense that Regulus like completely shifts his worldview for her lol.
The introduction was so good. It establishes Regulus as this apathetic sort of pacifist, who’s privileged enough to be able to not care about either side too much. It’s also interesting because he clearly puts family above all things, which is why he tends to agree with whoever’s talking at the time. (His love and respect for Sirius made my heart twinge a little bit. Sibling relationships always get me haha.) And in some ways, this “pacifist” mindset made me just as angry at Regulus as I would’ve been if he’d committed entirely to the idea of being a Death Eater. There’s something about people with the power to help who don’t help that makes me slightly upset, haha.
I’ve already talked about how much I love Summer, but I’ll say it again! I LOVE SUMMER. She’s such a good character, and I just want nothing bad to happen to her. I have a really, really bad feeling about where this story is going in terms of Summer’s safety and emotional well-being ahhh. Especially with the two of them drawing some suspicion at the end, OH NO.
Anyway I really enjoyed reading all of the interactions between Regulus and Summer, and fingers crossed that nothing happens. Please please please pleaseee <3
~Eva
Author's Response:Hiiii thank you!
I adore friendship fics. It's weird to me that there are so few friendship stories (fics, published books, movies, anything) that exist compared to romance, which is crazy because friendship is so important - just as important in our lives as romance is, i'd argue. And I felt like this story needed to be told about a friendship - like, it wouldn't have worked as a romance. Idk. Anyway, that was a long tangent but thank you! And I'm so glad you love Summer as well!
Ooh, I really love your analysis of Regulus' character there. I love that you point out how his privilege affects where he sides in the war. He can afford to not care because at this point it's not his life on the line, just his reputation. And yeah, I hadn't really considered him a pacifist per se but I totally see what you're talking about, how his lack of attachment to either side makes him basically a bystander to the whole thing, which I think we've discussed in the reviews on one of my other stories, but - people like him are part of the reason Voldemort got so powerful in the first place, in a way...
Um yeah I have nothing to say for myself regarding where the story is going, but you already know that
Thanks so much for the review!! <3
Hello Kristin!
I know that I haven't reviewed or read any of your written works before so I'm glad that I'm able to get around to doing so! I will say, however, that I was intrigued by the premises of this story already since it's focused on a minor character whom we know very little about in the books. That, and I always pondered what it would be like to see things from Regulus' point of view or just anything about him from what we have learned about him so far so I'm glad that I was able to get to reading this story. Why do I feel the title is a sign that is telling me there's sunniness and warmth yet that I, as the reader, should expect angst and dark moments to come as well!?! Anyway, onward to the actual review!
First off, before I go on about everything else, can I start with saying how much I love Summer Phillips already?! I'm usually drawn to sunny and bright characters to the point where anything I read, see, and or hear with sunny, bright people like her that I usually can find myself saying, "Hey, I know we just met but I think I love you and you're going to be a favorite or somebody I really like!" and honestly that's how I feel about Summer right in all honesty. I love that as we read more about her is that Regulus that she's a very warm, friendly, and sociable person but he's also drawn to that because. I found that she was a sweet, caring, loyal, and wonderful person whom seems to extend her warmth and kindness to somebody who needs it and in this case that's Regulus.
I know their friendship didn't get off on the right foot which I love as that's realistic but I appreciated the way that you built up theirs especially with their meeting at the Astronomy Tower and watching the gorgeous sunset to the warmth of the crammed stuffed Room of The Requirement where they play Gobstones (I think that part made me smile since I like Gobstones personally considering it looks like a fun game!), hang out with Summer's other friends, and or talk and get to know each other about things. I also genuinely love that when he spats out at her for putting her head on his shoulder that she doesn't become timid and run away or shrink in cowardice and fear but instead stands her ground against him. I love that she was able to stand up to him and show him the other and bright side of things. No pun intended by the way. xD It shows that she's not letting him waste her time with her kindness and or won't tolerate for such behavior. The hot cocoa was a nice safe but also their talk about winter regarding the seasons was quite fun to read--since I love winter the same reason they do (even though my favorite season is summer haha). I found myself squeeing when she asked if she could call him, Reg and also laughed when he made that intentional pun about her name being her favorite season when they talk about the seasons--or was that something you thought of? xD But nonetheless enjoyed that! Also did enjoy the Sirius pun as well!
I already said this earlier but I'll say it again, I love that this story is being told in Regulus' point of view since you managed to expand him to be more than the Regulus that we know of from the books yet the one we truly don't know either if that makes sense. I really love the way you described his pain and conflict regarding his situation of wanting to remain loyal to the Death Eaters and his friends although he feels like he wants the freedom, understanding, and maybe even love? From the way he talks about his life, I know that he doesn't have a lack of love from his family but I feel on the friendship side that his friends are his friends but I feel that his friends "love" him but not the way that Summer does if you get what I mean. I'm probably reading too much into it though so if that's not the case then my bad. ;;
I genuinely love stories where friendship is a central or huge part of the story, I know this has a friendship theme but I thought I point that out since I love how close they become in this chapter so far. I can't go without mentioning that I was glad that he was opening up to her about what he was going through and she was there to just to be a listening ear and was also comforting him. I'm glad that he was able to trust her and that she was there for him. I almost felt like sobbing at that part because I can understand his pain but also because of how kind, sweet, and understanding she was. Gosh, I love this friendship so much. ;w;
I feel the ending was a cliffhanger when Jasper confronted him about his friendship with Summer and how he pointed out when he spotted them walking in the Hogwarts courtyard and there was even a part of me that admittedly went, "Why did you have to go and do that?" yet I understand that Regulus can't always get away with being friends with Summer without his friends having to take note or becoming aware of what's going on. Gosh, I can understand his conflict of being on a side that he thinks is something that he wants and or going against it to realize that whatever side he's on isn't all so grand and or worth going for.
Another thing I enjoyed is the references to Sirius since I know he cared about his brother despite the fact they had gone separate ways and him letting his younger brother down instead of becoming closer to him. Sometimes I feel bad that his life was taken way too earlier for him to ever truly repair and make amends with his younger brother so this was nice addition and or I like your take on that. ;w;
Nonetheless I really do want to keep reading this to see where this goes despite what I had commented earlier about the title and his conflict earlier because I definitely am enjoying this story very much so even though I'm dreading what goes on later on! All in all, I found this story of Regulus and his friendship with Summer as well as his conflict and turmoil very interesting! I hope and can't wait to read more chapters whenever that time for me comes or hopefully soon! Awesome job so far! C:
-Anni
Author's Response:
Anni, you’re so wonderful! Thank you for this review!! <3
Yes! As you know, despite being such a minor character, Regulus actually plays a large role in the books, albeit entirely behind the scenes – and yet we hear so little about him. And the sources that actually give information about Regulus in the books are both so biased (Sirius and Kreacher) so there’s a lot left unknown about him and what he was like as a person. There’s so much story to tell there, and I felt like writing this really made me understand him! Anyway.... Um. Yeah, I won’t say anything about what the title means except that I think you have good instincts :P
Yay I’m so glad you love Summer! And I must say that it is so very Hufflepuff of you to be drawn to bright sunny characters :P
I’m so happy that you like the way their friendship was built up, and that you thought it was realistic that it didn’t start off on the right foot at first. I don’t think there was any way it could have, because Regulus was raised with a lot of prejudices and they were bound to get in the way. And yeah, Summer might be amazingly patient, but she’s not a doormat, and thoughtless insults like that are where she draws a line. Teehee, I have a great love of puns, especially that one, and I’m not ashamed of it :P
Thank you, I’m so glad you like Regulus’ POV here and the way he sees himself as stuck in this sort of limbo where he doesn’t know who he should be. And eeep, I’m so glad you love their friendship. Yes I totally get what you mean. This story is not about romantic love, but in a lot of ways it is about love. There are so many types of love other than romantic love that get overlooked especially in fiction, such as the friendship love in this story. Yeah I think it took a lot for Regulus to get to the point where he was able to cry in front of her and hug her. He’s changed so much! *is so proud* But yes Summer is the MVP of this chapter
Yeah, not much love for Jasper at the moment, I understand. But you’re absolutely right, Regulus can’t just hide out in the shadows like that, at some point eventually he is going to have to pick a side and stand behind it. (he’s not there yet.)
OMG RIGHT I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN SO SAD THAT SIRIUS AND REGULUS NEVER RECONCILED. I think Sirius would have been so proud of Regulus if he knew what Regulus had really done and the person he turned out to be! /tangent But yes, it is my headcanon that they were very close as children, and that even though neither of them would ever admit it later on, they still cared a lot about each other. </3
I’m so glad that you’re enjoying this story. And I really appreciate the review, thank you so much! ♥♥♥
I came to your AP with all the intentions of transferring some reviews, but then I saw this and couldn't help myself because I'm kinda fangirling Reggie ATM, sooo.
Here we go :P. (Hi, by the way)
THIS! The idea that Regulus was caught up between his parent's beliefs and his brother's beliefs I feel so freaking much. Then, of course, the pressure from the vast majority of his family and all of his friends and housemates who upheld their prejudices probably only increased tenfold when his brother left him, unable to have that balance of a different opinion.
And I love how the introduction of this ordinary Hufflepuff Muggle-born reestablishes the balance in his life. She smiles too much and hugs people on the way to classes and its awesome, and Regulus is watching her without really realizing that he's 'watching' her (like he knows he's watching her, but I'm not so sure that he knows why).
And despite everything he's feeling and what he convinces himself he's supposed to believe, he finds himself talking with her, laughing, and opening up to her -- it's completely adorable. And his lashing out at her is kind of expected; I'm sure something like that is almost like a reflex at this point in life, but I LOVE how he attempted to backpedal from that REAL quick.
And they keep meeting which is absolutely fabulous. Off course, his friends start inquiring on where Regulus was in the evenings. I do feel bad, because he's kind of stuck on choices at this point, especially when being afraid of being disowned like Sirius and not being as rebellious as Sirius and not having a James Potter to turn to if that did happen, like Sirius. Luckily, Summer can understand that and see the good in him. But it must suck to have to try and hide your friendship, by even having to pretend not to know each other when you're walking in the hallways.
Then it's so heartbreaking to see him break off his friendship with Summer and how he's legitimately concerned for her when he doesn't see her. Then. THEN. A CLIFFHANGER!! Ahhh! I"m so excited for more!!
Awesome job!
-Rumpels
Author's Response:Rumpel! Thank you so, so much and I'm thrilled that you decided to have a look at this story! (Also. OMG, right? I adore Regulus.)
I'm so glad you like this characterisation of Regulus. Tbh I've never seen him as a bad guy, just a confused one. He was so young when he joined the Death Eaters, and sixteen is an age where you still feel a lot of pressure to be a certain thing or act a certain way. Sirius really balanced him out and he had no idea.
I like your analysis of how Summer reintroduces balance and that he watches her without knowing why. I think you're right, like it's more subconscious than anything.
Aw, thanks, I'm glad you like how their friendship sort of builds up despite Regulus' misgivings. But yeah, his lashing out was bound to happen at some point, he's still pretty conflicted about who he is and wants to be. You're right though in that it's probably something of a reflex built in by years of being surrounded by people who don't like Muggle-borns.
You make such a good point about him being stuck on choices of where he stands. He doesn't really have anyone he can depend on if he tries to get out, and at the moment he's safest where he is. Summer really is special for being able to see that about him. But yeah, kind of sad that they're not able to openly be friends. :(
Cliffhanger.. yep. I'm really glad you're excited to read more! Thanks again for coming to read this and for leaving a review, I appreciate it so much! ♥♥♥ This review was such a wonderful thing to find when I logged in! I hope you enjoy the rest of the story!
transferred from HPFF
I thought you deserved another review after waiting SO LONG, and besides I absolutely had to finish the story!
This is brilliant, of course.
God, the scene with Anne and Bellatrix. *SOBS*
The inclusion of Kreacher was nothing short of genius. I'm pretty sure that isn't canon, but it feels so canon I'm almost doubting myself on that. It certainly fits! Also, Kreacher's involvement explains how he knew to go there in the first place. And nice tie in with the Horcrux research in the last chapter!
Voldemort really is the lowest of the low to abuse a house elf that way. At least Reg wasn't so cruel and took the potion himself like a decent human person. In the end, he's quite a hero, isn't he? ♥
I really think Reguls is one o the most interestng characters on the series, and it's fascinating to consider what ultimately led him to do this. Of course your version of events is one of my most favorites. It's also one of the few I've seen that places Sirius on the periphery. I mean, coparatively speaking. If only Reg had seen the truth - or admitted it to himself - earlier on.
I have so many questions I'd love to ask you about this story - please please please: FIC NIGHT!
I'm sorry I don't have as much to say about this chapter (still no cc).
All in all, this story is just about perfect. You've got the narrative arc, the characters, good dialogue - *favorites*
I would really love to read a little something from Summer's pov, I'll have to scour your AP to see if you've got anything. (Or beg you to write it :P)
wonderful writing, Kristin dear!
xoxo Renee
Author's Response:THANK YOU, you are the sweetest! ♥
I hated writing that scene (with Anne and Bellatrix), but it had to be bad to spur Regulus to action and do such a dramatic thing as destroying Voldemort's Horcruxes even with the knowledge of what might happen to him. but yeah. :'( *hands tissue to Renee*
Kreacher's involvement at the cave is actually canon - a lot of this chapter was based on what Kreacher recounts of the event to Harry in DH (I think the chapter was called "Kreacher's Tale", or something similar) So I can't claim credit for including him. I'm glad you liked the way the scene played out though!
wow, you know, I'd never thought of submitting any of my stories to fic night before. But I looked, and they have to be under 5k, so this one's too long. It means a lot to me that you suggested that though, thank you! I'm really flattered that you thought it was good enough for that. If you have questions you can pile 'em up in my Q&A thread on the forums though, I'm always glad to answer questions.
THANK YOU SO MUCH. seriously. these reviews were so wonderful, and so are you. *hugs Renee forever*
Transferred from HPFF, with extra hugs
KRISTIN ♥
So, when I said I'd get to this in 24 hours, I actually met 240 hours. Forgot the 0. Sorry about that. *HIDES* Seriously, I'm *so sorry* this is extremely late, but I'm glad you requested!
You specifically asked about character. I think you've done a particularly good job showing the complexity of Reg's thought process about blood status and Voldemort and Summer. At the beginning he's clearly a pretty selfish guy, but also a guy with potential to show compassion. I loved that you pointed out both his moral dilemma and his conflict between Sirius and his parents.
This line is just PERFECTION:
--"Maybe you’re not always nice, but you’re good." -- LOVE ♥
I obviously don't know Summer quite as well, since she's an OC and not the POV character. I think she seems a little too perfect, almost, but since this is the first chapter I don't think there's cause to worry.
Oh my gosh, and the way you developed their relationship over time was just swoon worthy! It felt completely believable to me that he would gradually become attached to her sunny personality, whether he meant to or not. I am curious to learn more about her and what she sees in a (boy)friend like Reg. :)
If you revise, the thing I'd suggest looking at is point of view. Reg narrates this piece with a lot of distance. Even though I was interested in the story, I didn't feel like I was "inside" the story until I got to the sunset. I've tried to pinpoint why this is, and the only thing I can come up with is that starting with summary gives it a reflective feel, like Reg is looking back on something. When I started, I kept waiting for the moment when the reflection ended and the 'moment' began. I hope that makes some kind of sense. Basically, you might consider rearranging things a bit to start in a scene, if you want a more in-the-moment feel. However, if reflective is what you want then just ignore me :P
Summer seems totally sweet - definitely Power Puff worthy!! - and your cliff hanger ended was just BRUTAL (in the best way)! I don't have time to read a lot these days but this is most definitely on my list of things to continue with. Request any time - I love reading your work! ♥
lots of love!
Renee
Author's Response:RENEE ♥ ♥ Seriously you have nothing to apologize for! Thank you for reviewing!!
I'm glad you like the portrayal of Regulus so far and that you think his internal complexity is shown well. He is selfish, but also confused. Poor guy :( I think the conflict between himself, his parents, and Sirius, was probably one that weighed on him a lot - I always imagined Regulus and Sirius were close as kids, which would make things for Regulus pretty confusing after Sirius left. I love that you picked out that particular line about nice vs good, I like that line too :)
I always kind of wonder that about Summer too, because in this first chapter where Regulus kind of just sees her as faultless, it does make her seem a bit too perfect - but I'm glad that wasn't off-putting. I promise there is more to her, but yeah, it's a very biased lens we see her through in this chapter.
Thank you, it's great to hear that you liked the very gradual development of their friendship here :)
Ooh, and honestly I'm glad you mentioned that about him narrating with a lot of distance in the beginning. That's intentional - I don't know that I was aiming for reflective exactly, but definitely distance - the idea was that in the beginning he's still very afraid to be vulnerable, he's guarded, and as such his narration reflects that, and is mostly facts and lacks emotion. Sort of like he doesn't let you get into his head as much, if that makes sense? That of course changes later on as Reg changes - I'd be interested to know what you think of that development if you continue reading.
yeah, sorry about that cliff hanger :S Thank you so much for your review and all your kind words! ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
LOOK AT HOW FAST I AM. I've been avoiding responsibility. Also, I feel like you will appreciate the fact that I am writing this review in the expanded review box. IT'S SO NICE.
This definitely hits ALL of my interests, so thank you for that! I've been very interested in Regulus lately, so I'm always pleased to read more about him.
I think you've done a really wonderful job of exploring his character here. I love the way he went from a neutral force to a Death Eater, without actually losing his underlying neutrality. I also really liked how he joined the Death Eaters because he was so caught up in everything and it made him feel powerful. It made him very real, and it really showed his age. He very much seems like a teenage kid caught up in stuff he didn't fully understand. When writing about characters like this, I feel like a lot of times writers forget that they're writing teenagers not fully grown adults. Reading an accurate description of a seventeen year old is so nice.
I loved Regulus's voice in this as well. You really showed his thought process, and I think you've painted his character very well. He seems a bit detached and unemotional, which is so fitting based on the fact that he repeatedly says he was taught to never show excess emotion. It's SUCH a good fit.
I think Summer is absolutely wonderful! I love her kindness and friendliness (WHAT A GOOD PUFF SHE IS), and I love that it doesn't make her weak. When Regulus calls her a Mudblood, she reacts appropriately, but doesn't hold it against him.That shows such a strength in character, and I really like seeing it portrayed as such. She's also pretty darn funny, which is always nice to read.
I think the pace was good, but the chapter did lag a bit in places. It's on the longer side and it covers quite a bit of time, so the laggy bits are going to be hard to avoid. It usually showed up when you were describing passages of time, which really is to be expected. It's telling rather than showing, and while it's definitely necessary here, it just isn't as interesting as the parts where there's action happening.
That said, the parts where there IS action happening are very interesting! I felt just as captivated by Summer as Regulus did and I was so anxious about his friends finding out. I'm so curious about what happened to Summer now and I'M SO CONCERNED FOR HER. So it definitely holds reader interest.
And as a side note, I really love the chapter titles. So clever. :)
transferred from hpff 6/17/17
Author's Response:Wow, that was really fast! And yay for the expanded review box! That totally changed my life omg.
Thank you - it's great to hear that about Regulus. This is exactly the idea I was trying to convey - he wasn't EVIL, but a confused teenager who was just caught up in things he wasn't ready for. And aah, that means SO MUCH to hear you say that he seemed real. That's what I try for, and basically the best thing to hear as a writer- thank you!
I'm thrilled to hear that about Regulus' voice as well, and that his detachment seems to fit with his upbringing. That's really wonderful to hear about Summer as well, I'm so glad you like her! Haha, she is SUCH a Hufflepuff :D I really like your analysis of her character too, that her ability to forgive makes her strong.
Yeah, the long time span was one of the things I'd been concerned about this chapter, and I definitely see that it has some sections of telling. I am glad to hear that you found it appropriate though- that the telling seemed okay here as it skips through time. The last two chapters are a much shorter time span so hopefully less telling - I'd be interested to know what you think if you read those. Regarding the action scenes though, I'm so glad you find those interesting and that the story holds your interest.
Aw, thanks about the chapter titles ;) This was a really wonderful review, thank you so much!!
Okay, I only reviewed the last chapter on HPFF and I probably should re-read this and leave proper reviews on all chapters, but I'm too lazy...
But before transferring this review I just wanted to tell you once again, thank you!
I know that you wrote this story as a way to reverse in your writing a bit of your grief, and you know that I can understand this very well and the reasons this story will always be so specially dear to my heart.
Please always remember that you are a wonderful person, a caring and generous friend and also an amazingly talented writer. Everyone who know you are lucky to have you in their lives, and I feel honoured and grateful of being one of them (even if only through the internet... but one day we'll meet in person, promise!)
The hugest snowball hug ever rolling your way!!!
***Transferred from HPFF***
This was so beautiful!
So sad, so moving, so sweet... I think I might cry...
I love Regulus, he's such a complex character with a such tragic background and you depicted him perfectly.
I loved the way Summer showed him a side of reality and of himself that he didn't know and that was so much more bright and genuine than what he was used to.
And then she died... When I read "I have cancer" I was like... No, this can't be true! I kind of hoped that she would get through, that maybe wizards knew some cure more effective, but of course that wasn't the case...
And the last chapter... Simply heartbreaking!
Having Regulus be the impotent spectator of Anne's murder... And then the cave... I really can't express in words all the emotions that your story brought to me...
Marvellous story! You are such a woderful writer!
Hugs,
Chiara
Author's Response:Chiara! Thank you so much! I really appreciate what you said. I am so grateful to have you as a friend too! (internet friends totally count. But yes... one day!) *So many hugs*
*Response transferred*
Aw! Thank you so much! This was such a wonderful review and it means a lot to me that you were touched by the story.
I'm really glad you liked the way I portrayed Regulus. Based on what we know of canon I just never felt like he was as into the Death Eaters as Sirius implied; I felt he was more ambivalent about it all, and I'm glad you liked that as well as the way he changed with the influence of Summer.
Thank you for mentioning that the story brought up a lot of emotions - even if you couldn't express it in words, it still means so much to me that my writing really resonated with you - that's an incredible compliment. Thanks so much for reading, and for your amazing review!
♥ ♥
Kristin
We know I missed you, but did you miss me?! :D
(Did you know a flock of crows is called a murder?)
Okay...
*takes deep breath*
I'm ready.
*sobs* NO I'M NOT I CHANGED MY MIND!
Wah it's so sad that she's the one that finally got Regulus to change and then...and then... :(
If I didn't know how Regulus' story actually ends, I'd be worried he would be pushed back into Death Eater ways. But of course he's changed too much for that.
NO NO NO NO WHY DID IT HAVE TO BE HER PARENTS?! Omg I can't believe you would do that to me! (And, er, Summer's parents)
But yes for Regulus summoning the rest of his strength! He's such a great character. I'm half in my seat cheering for him and his determination!
I have goosebumps Kristin. LOOK GOOSEBUMPS! I love how Summer was in his thoughts at the end, how he drew his courage and strength from her. It was perfect ♥
Kristin, you broke my heart, but I enjoyed every word. Thank you leading me to this story, it's amazing in every single way. Incredible job ♥ ♥ ♥
Author's Response:So basically one crow would be attempted murder.
Did you know that a group of ravens is called an unkindness, or (alternatively) a conspiracy? WHO COMES UP WITH THESE TERMS
I know :'( I'm sorry, I did feel bad about that. And about every other character, because the only main character who lives is Kreacher...
yeah, Regulus has changed so much by this point. He's on his own as much as he was at the beginning, but is no longer the same person.
As for Summer's parents, it had to be something huge to push Regulus over the edge. Summer's death kind of broke him, but it didn't motivate him to do anything (also probably because her death had nothing to do with Death Eaters). But then two totally innocent people who'd lost everything and had been nothing but nice to Reg, that was too much, especially the manner in which they died.
wow thanks! I'm flattered that the writing was that powerful enough to give you goosebumps! And I'm so glad you liked the ending. I'm particularly proud of the end and I really like when people like it :D Thank you SO much for your kind comments *hugs*
Thank you so much for your review(s)! You are the best! ♥ ♥ ♥
KRISTIN ♥
Did you know the longest recorded flight of a chicken was 13 seconds? How educational is this review?!
*ahem*
I was actually thinking about this story all night, I'm so excited to be back!
Wait. No I'm not.
SUMMER NO! No no no no.
Regulus and Summer are just so different, I love love LOVE it! Their contrast is amazing (and Summer's Christmas sounds like mine lololol)
It might be a tiny detail, but let me just say how much I adore Regulus magic-ing flowers behind his back ♥
Ha ha "teacups into toads", that's what Lily did over her break isn't it? :D
I love how much you've made Regulus a stranger in a strange land. For once he's the outcast, and it's refreshing to read him trying to adjust to a world completely different to his own and find it's not so bad after all. Of course Summer's parents are so lovely and I love how Anne begins to mother Reg!
And we're starting to see a change in him now. I'm scared for him (er, even though I know how his story turns out. Actually that makes me more scared) but how awful he's feeling surrounded by wizards who hate Muggles :(
OMG THAT LAST LINE! Kirstin no :( I'm almost afraid to read the next chapter. Almost.
Once again your writing is impeccable. Regulus' thoughts and feelings just leap off the page. I'm enjoying this story very much, even if you're going to break my heart.
♥ Bianca
Author's Response:HI BIANCA WELCOME BACK!!! ♥
That's a long flight for a chicken!
Did you know that sloths move so slowly that their fur cultivates algae and even moths? The associated moth is called the sloth moth :P
I'm glad you like the contrast between Summer and Reg in terms of personality and background - they're basically in different worlds. Haha, Summer's typical Christmas sounds way more fun than Reg's :P
haha, you know I never really thought a whole lot about how adorable that visual is until you mentioned it!
Was it? I can't remember. There must have been a teacups-into-toads unit in Transfiguration :P
yeah, Regulus really starts to grow up in this chapter and learns what it is to /be/ a good friend rather than to just have a good friend. And it makes him step pretty far outside his comfort zone, only to find that Muggles aren't that different - it must be pretty weird for him realizing that all he's been brought up with is wrong. Poor thing he's so confused and lost :( Aw, I'm really glad you liked the bit about Reg becoming close with Summer's parents. Now he's moved from hanging out with Mudbloods to corresponding with Muggles, and he's comfortable with it! he's growing up!
though as you said, yeah, it makes him even less comfortable with his role in the Death Eaters. Can't have it both ways...
Thank you so much, it's really lovely to hear that you like the writing and can connect with Regulus' feelings here. As for the rest. Yeah. Uh... sorry in advance :(
Thanks for your review! ♥ ♥ ♥
HELLO MY WONDERFUL DARLING WHO I LOVE EVER SO MUCH. I'm just transferring reviews over from HPFF :)
OmgomgomgaRegulusstoryomg
HI HI KRISTIN ♥
(Did you know August has the highest percentage of births?)
Poor Regulus torn between his parents and Sirius :( I never thought of him being worried about disappointing his brother, but after reading this, I like to think it.
OMG is this a Slytherin/Hufflepuff relationship story? ARE YOU FATHER CHRISTMAS?!
♥ Feel that Hufflepuff sunshine ♥
Oh the Astronomy Tower at sunset... You really are Father Christmas! I love how she probably knows what Regulus is like and what he thinks of her, but she doesn't care, just treats him like another human being, and I hope he learns to do the same ♥
Oh Merlin how I love Sirius puns... Like siriusly...
Okay, Bianca. Stahp.
Ooh I really like this line: Maybe you're not always nice, but you're good, because there really is a difference, and I think it sums up Regulus and maybe even some other Slytherins perfectly.
Kristen, where have you been hiding this story?! I am absolutely in love. I'm not sure what you edited, since I didn't read it before, but I adore everything about this, I think it's amazing so far. Regulus is just perfect: a pureblood of high class upbringing, follower and supporter of the Dark Lord, but his true (good) self is just beneath the surface, and it only takes the right person to bring it out completely. Summer is wonderfully intriguing, she's obviously the most amazing person, but there's clearly something she's hiding and I can't wait to find out what it is! I'll be back for the other two chapters this weekend!
Amazing work, Kristin. But of course, it's you!
♥
Author's Response:HI AND THANK YOU FOR TRANSFERRING REVIEWS YOU ARE LOVELY ♥
yesaRegulusstoryI'mexcitedthatyou'reexcited (it is really hard to not type spaces, they just happen instinctively)
HI BIANCAAA
I didn't know that, actually - I thought it was September. I feel so much smarter now! Animal eye facts round 2: Did you know that the eyes of a giant squid are about the size of dinner plates?
you know, I'd never given a whole lot of thought to Regulus' character before I wrote this, but when I sat down to write it, the image of this really confused, indecisive teenager came to mind and that's how I've seen him ever since. I have always loved the idea that he and Sirius were close when they were little, and I don't think Regulus would have given up on him that easily. Similarly to how I think Sirius still really cared about Regulus even when he pretended not to. The fact that Sirius never knew of Regulus' sacrifice and the fact that they never reconciled just breaks my heart. :( but that's a sob story for another day. :P
Oh no my secret identity has been revealed! But actually, no. It's about a relationship, but not a Relationship if that makes sense. :P there aren't enough friendship stories on the archives!
yeah, Summer is definitely aware that there are a lot of differences between herself and Regulus, at least outwardly, but she is unfailingly nice - yeah, Reg could definitely learn a lot from her, haha.
I siriusly love bad puns. :D
Ooh, I'm glad you pointed out that line, I was particularly happy with that one :D You're right, I think that could apply to a lot of people, and nice and good really are two separate things.
Aaah, thank you! I'm so, so glad that you like this so far, that means a lot to me. ♥ Thanks so much for reading! This was such an amazing review and I want to give you the hugest hug! *hugs Bianca*
Thank youuu ♥ ♥ ♥
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