InsaneJournal

An hour before the shops on Diagon Alley were due to open, Antonin knew Severus would be there. Often, on his way to his own place of employment, Antonin would pass Arsenic and Old Lace in the early mornings and notice, through the window, Severus about amongst his potion ingredients, refilling his stock, tidying up. Perhaps this would be a good time time privately meet with his old colleague?

In the alley behind the shop, Antonin rapped upon the rear entrance, bundled against the winter’s chill in a heavy cloak and hat, with a scarf wrapped ‘round his neck, which also helped to disguise his features, should anybody nosey enough to question why Antonin would pay Severus a visit.

Severus was, of course, at the shoppe. It was a habit to get there early, a chance to have some time to himself. What was unexpected was the knock at the back door. Despite the "peace", Severus' paranoia was still present. He locked his workroom, dropped his wand into his hand and edged towards the backdoor.

"Who is it?" he called.

“Antonin Dolohov,” came the reply, his Russian accent very distinct, with a note of haste in his voice. The longer he stayed outside the shop, the better the chances were that he might be spotted. And the way things were at the moment, he didn’t want to arouse any undue suspicion toward himself.

The door opened just wide enough for Dolohov to be admitted, but Severus did not drop his wand at all, simply closed the door quickly behind his fellow colleague. "Do what do I owe this visit? Are you in need of something?"

“We are alone?” Antonin was fairly sure they were, but his darting eyes gave away his restlessness. The topic they were about to embark upon would place them both into Azkaban, if heard by the wrong people. He noted the wand in Severus’ hand, but did not take offense. Concentrating his intense gaze upon the other man, Antonin said, “It has been a while since we have spoken, but I will be brief. There has been some discussion amongst ourselves, of coming back together. Of continuing the old business.” Antonin assumed Severus would automatically understand what he was hinting about.

Severus nodded to Antonin an affirmative. At the mention of old business, Severus led the way to his office, which was heavily warded. (As was his workroom, but no one was allowed into his workroom.) He motioned for Antonin to take a seat if you wish. Ourselves - Severus had a few ideas about who was included in that number.
"Feeling inspired by Lady Noir?"

Antonin did sit down, keeping a guarded eye upon Severus the entire time for any hesitation that might give away misgivings he might have about his previous duty. “Not inspired by her,” Antonin was quick to respond, emphasising his words. “But by her actions reveal the time is becoming ripe. Many of us believe it is due time for us to continue where we left off, in the name of our Dark Lord.”

Severus took a seat and put his wand away. Of course, they wouldn't claim Lady Noir as an inspiration or replacement for Voldemort. "Well, it would behove us to become better organised, rather than allowing Malfoy's son to just poke hornets nests on the journals."

“That is something Lucius and Narcissa must contend to, but if Draco persists, then it shall be brought up.” Antonin gave Severus a pointed look. “We are now organizing. Which is the reason for my visit. When we begin again, I trust we may count on your cooperation?”

Theoretically, Severus had a choice. But yet, it didn't feel that way. There was a part of him that wanted to say no, to wash his hands of the whole business. He had a good steady job, he was making progress in his research. But there was still the call. The knowledge that despite his blood status, his talents and gifts were valued within the Death Eaters. And there was Lily. Stupid bloody Lily. "Of course, Antonin," he said, his mental defenses up, though he didn't believe Dolohov had the necessary skills in legilmancy. "Did you actually doubt my participation?"

Antonin regarded Severus with curiosity. “I am not sure. After all, we have not spoken about this in a while, nor have I seen you responding to any of the private journal conversations that we’ve had. Your skills would be greatly needed, once we begin again. It’s good to know that we may count upon you.”

Or else, was the unspoken addendum.

Severus simply raised an eyebrow. "I remain the Dark Lord's faithful servant, as always. As for journal conversations, my work keeps me busy and I do not often attend to it as much as others."

“Good.” Antonin was satisfied with Severus’ answer, at least for the time being. There was no reason to doubt his loyalty, but Antonin liked to err on the side of caution, perhaps tipping the scales to the side of paranoia. “If events continue the way they have been, we will need every able wand we can muster.”