The Identity of R.A.B. ***HPB Spoilers***

[Wolfshead]

To the Dark Lord
I know I will be dead long before you read this but I want you to know that it was I who discovered your secret. I have stolen the real Horcrux and intend to destroy it as soon as I can. I face death in the hope that when you meet your match, you will be mortal once more.
R.A.B.
From page 569 of the British adults edition of HBP.

So who does everyone think is the mysterious R.A.B.? The answer that immediately springs to mind is Regulus Black - Sirius' brother. Here's a quote from OoTP - the only time Regulus has been mentioned (copied with a little help from e-books...).

'But… why did you… ?'

'Leave?' Sirius smiled bitterly and ran his fingers through his long, unkempt hair. 'Because I hated the whole lot of them: my parents, with their pure-blood mania, convinced that to be a Black made you practically royal… my idiot brother, soft enough to believe them… that's him.'

Sirius jabbed a finger at the very bottom of the tree, at the name 'Regulus Black'. A date of death (some fifteen years previously) followed the date of birth.

'He was younger than me,' said Sirius, 'and a much better son, as I was constantly reminded.'

'But he died,' said Harry.

'Yeah,' said Sirius. 'Stupid idiot… he joined the Death Eaters.'

'You're kidding!'

'Come on, Harry, haven't you seen enough of this house to tell what kind of wizards my family were?' said Sirius testily.

'Were - were your parents Death Eaters as well?'

'No, no, but believe me, they thought Voldemort had the right idea, they were all for the purification of the wizarding race, getting rid of Muggle-borns and having pure-bloods in charge. They weren't alone, either, there were quite a few people, before Voldemort showed his true colours, who thought he had the right idea about things… they got cold feet when they saw what he was prepared to do to get power, though. But I bet my parents thought Regulus was a right little hero for joining up at first.'

'Was he killed by an Auror?' Harry asked tentatively.

'Oh, no,' said Sirius. 'No, he was murdered by Voldemort. Or on Voldemort's orders, more likely; I doubt Regulus was ever important enough to be killed by Voldemort in person. From what I found out after he died, he got in so far, then panicked about what he was being asked to do and tried to back out. Well, you don't just hand in your resignation to Voldemort. It's a lifetime of service or death.'
I reckon Regulus did indeed have second thoughts about what he was being asked to do once it became apparent how evil Voldemort actually was; but rather than chickening out, he tried to help bring about the downfall of the Dark Lord before eventually being killed.

Another piece of evidence that points towards one of Voldemort's own is the usage of the term 'Dark Lord'. As we know, Voldemort's followers used the term to refer to their leader - Snape was forever calling him the Dark Lord, when most others used You-Know-Who. It makes sense to assume it was someone who had served him, or held him in high regard, that wrote the letter.

But what does the A stand for? I have only one idea in regards to that - and I feel it's highly unlikely. I expect we'll have to wait till the next book to find that out. Here's another quote from when Harry and Sirius are looking at the tapestry in OoTP.

'I haven't looked at this for years. There's Phineas Nigellus… my great-great-grandfather, see? … least popular Headmaster Hogwarts ever had… and Araminta Mehflua… cousin of my mothers… tried to force through a Ministry Bill to make Muggle-hunting legal…
So, Regulus Araminta Black? But to use a womans name as a middle name for a man... not likely methinks. So for now I'll settle for Regulus A. Black.

Anyone get any other ideas?

[Majimaune]

its very possible your theory

[Noldor_returned]

I think it was Reginald Arthur Boxley...he's this guy I met at the pub the other day...he wears a cape an everything.

[spirit]

Even though it's been months since the book was released, I should probably include some bit of space here to warn people adead of spoilers.

I think it's almost definite that "R.A.B." is none other than Regulus Black, Sirius' younger brother. Why? Well, in the Dutch version of the books, the Black surname is translated as Zwart; in the Dutch translation of HBP, the initials on the note are "R.A.Z." Same for the German book; they use Schwartz for Black, and the initials in the German version of HBP are "R.A.S."

Pretty nifty if you ask me. ;)

[Wolfshead]

Even though it's been months since the book was released, I should probably include some bit of space here to warn people adead of spoilers.
No need for that - I put a spoiler warning in the title of the thread. Admittedly I put HPB instead of HBP, but never mind...

I think it's almost definite that "R.A.B." is none other than Regulus Black, Sirius' younger brother. Why? Well, in the Dutch version of the books, the Black surname is translated as Zwart; in the Dutch translation of HBP, the initials on the note are "R.A.Z." Same for the German book; they use Schwartz for Black, and the initials in the German version of HBP are "R.A.S."
Sounds like pretty conclusive proof if you ask me. Anyone disagree?

[spirit]

Oh, of course.


Well.


Rowling is one hell of a woman. She seems to lead her readers one way, and suddenly changes her direction. For instance with the whole Ron and Hermionie thing (I strongly must say I am not a fan of those two begoming a couple as much as I love them both) and in book 5 where I knew someone was going to die, and almost believed it would be Mr. Weasley when he was attacked by the snake.

So, although there's not much of a chance for Ms. Rowling to change her mind of this, as most of the info that's been collected points to R.A.B being Sirrus' brother, there's still a chance of us interpreting everything wrongly....
You just never know....

[VioletFalcon129]

See, you guys do research. Me, I just think "R.A.B.? Hum, must be Regulus!". And then I'm reminded of the locket in the black house, and I think "Ah, yes, most defineately Regulus!".

But then again, scores of people thoguht the HBP would be Voldemort,a nd look who that turned out to be. (Of course, a lot of other people thought it was Goderick Gryffindor, or even Lilly Evans...)

Well, my guess is a good a yours. I, for one, will not go through the rooks looking for all the "b" last names with "r" first names, or "b" last names with unnamed relatives. I'm just gonna wait and find out...

-Vi

[Majimaune]

well when i was reading the hbp and just after i couldnt think of anyone in the book(s) who had the letters R.A.B but now ive read this im quite sure that it is sirius' brother and that he got a guilty consence or something like that but in the note doesnt it say that he will be dead by the time Vol. reads the note. btu how (if it was regulus) did he find out about the horcruxes in the first place cause *says sarcasticly* im sure voldemort would just say infront of his deatheaters that he has 7 parts of his soul.
let me just say that at first i thought it could be dumbuldores brother cause i think he was killed by Vol. but the B and the D dont fit.

Majimaune Leganimdok

[spirit]

Well, my guess is a good a yours. I, for one, will not go through the rooks looking for all the "b" last names with "r" first names, or "b" last names with unnamed relatives. I'm just gonna wait and find out...

I must admit, I have no social life in school most of the time. All my firends so different subjects, so when I have a lesson, they have a free; and when I have a free, they have lessons.

So, what else can a lone Spirit do in spare time?? WELL, oogle at HP sites looking for hot pictures of Draco, and come across other info... ;)

You know this saying?
Knowledge is power. Power corrupts... Be evil?
:p

[Wolfshead]

See, you guys do research. Me, I just think "R.A.B.? Hum, must be Regulus!". And then I'm reminded of the locket in the black house, and I think "Ah, yes, most defineately Regulus!".
Ah, the locket. I'd forgotten about that.

There was a musical box that emitted a faintly sinister, tinkling tune when wound, and they all found themselves becoming curiously weak and sleepy, until Ginny had the sense to slam the lid shut; a heavy locket that none of them could open; a number of ancient seals; and, in a dusty box, an Order of Merlin, First Class, that had been awarded to Sirius's grandfather for 'services to the Ministry'.
I can't remember if the locket was supposed to have any engravings on it, such as a large S, or a snake. Presumably such a marking would have been mentioned in the passage if the locket was indeed the horcrux.

So, how about it? Regulus stashed the locket in his parents house before he was killed? Interestingly, if he did, the locket is now rightfully Harry's...!

As for researching things - I'd hardly call what I've been doing 'researching' as such. I've taken what I can remember, searched for keywords in e-book versions of HP, provided the passages, and presented it all in a professional way :)

[Khôr’nagan]

I had thought for a while that I remember Mundungus having it when he was selling stuff to the Barman in the Hog's Head, but I just checked and it didn't mention it. Oh well.

I have to agree that there is little doubt that R.A.B. is Regulus A. Black, and the stuff about the name Black in other languages only solidifies it as fact. I mean, what else is it going to be? I sincerely doubt there are other names like Black that will start with the same letter in three separate languages, and that's the only way it could be someone different. I think now the only speculation needs be about where the horcrux is now, and what happened to it. Is it the locket in the house? Was it "de-horcruxified"? Did Regulus get any other Horcruxes before Voldemort got to him?

As to whether Rowling could concievably trick us and pull another name out of the hat, I sincerely doubt it. But then again, she could have looked at words that would start with the same letter in all the languages in which the book would be printed just so it would solidify everyone's position about it being Sirius Black when in reality it's someone else entirely. If I were writing a book I might do something like that, but then again, I'm very sneaky, and that's just what I'd do. But Rowling isn't so sneaky, methinks, so I don't think it'll happen.

[spirit]

So, how about it? Regulus stashed the locket in his parents house before he was killed? Interestingly, if he did, the locket is now rightfully Harry's...!


Okay, slightly off-topic, I appologie.

Well, you know the House of Black, it probably had many dark spells protecting it from outsiders and all (unless if they were invited in...) and it's just strikes me as a little odd that the house was able to be passed onto Harry by means of a will after Sirrus' death.

I'd have though that the house would automatically transfer itself to the nect Black in the line, whoich I believe would be dear Draco's mother. Sorry, can't spell her name...:rolleyes:


Was it "de-horcruxified"?
De-horcruxidied! :D :D Hahahaa! Well, there a few possibilities it can be hidden? Gringotts?
Maybe snuck into Hogwarts itself. Safest place is Hogwarts, as Hagrid said.

I also fiind it a little unbelievable (and sad :() that Mr. Potty :mad: is not going to Hogwarts again! I love that place and the magic...
So I'm probably trying to find any theroies which include Harry going back to Hogwarts....

[Majimaune]

yes but HOW did regulus find out about the horcruxes cause dumbledore wasnt even sure for a long time

[spirit]

yes but HOW did regulus find out about the horcruxes cause dumbledore wasnt even sure for a long time
He was part of Voldermorts group. Surely he mush have heard some things, and maybe done some research afterwards... He may not be as stupid as Sirrus may have believed him to be? :confused:

[VioletFalcon129]

Stupid! *mock indignation* My Regulus isn't stupid!

Okay, okay.

The house being passed to Harry? Sirius willed it to him. THe house was under the command of the Black, Sirius, who had been in line, and it was obeying him. So, if he tells the house to be Harry's, then it's harry's. What really got me was that EVERYTHING he had went to Harry. If i was Remus (or even Tonks, who is family) I would be supremely indulted. After I got over my grief.

About Reguglus's middle name : The only people's middle names we actually know (as far as I remeber) are Harry's and Dumbledor's, so it isn't odd we don't know what "A." in "R.A.B." stands for. But here's an idea: look to the stars. Literally. Almost all the Blacks are named after stars or constellations, or some such thing. So, if there's an "A" constellation or star that could be a guys name, that could be it.

How did Reggie know about the horcruxes if it was indeed him? I dunno...he eeves dropped? (sp) *resists urge to make terrible Samwise joke*
He asked another DeathEater? He asked SNAPE? He was told by Voldy? (highly unlikely). Um... ramdom chance? ICECREAM?!?

...

:D

Maybe he was being killed BECAUSE V. found out that he had stolen the horcurx(es)! Eh? Or was that what we were operating under in the first place? Did R. try to take something valuable of V.'s with him? When he chicked out? When he was found out for being a traitor? Or was he breaking horcruxes all along?!

*dramatic music*

-Vi

[Talierin]

Well as far as "A" constellations or stars, here's all the ones I can name off the top of my head:

Auriga (c)
Aquila (c)
Altair (s)
Antares (s)
Aldebaran (s)
Argo (c)
Aquarius (c)
Andromeda (c)
Alioth (s)
Arcturus (s)
Ara (c)
Algedi (s)
Albireo (s)
Achernar (s)
Alnitak (s)

So we'll see, if it is indeed Regulus, if Rowlings uses a star/constellation name ;)

[Majimaune]

in HBP dumbledore reckons (key word RECKONS) that Voldemort please dont correct me on this that V. is the only one that knows about the horcruxes
so how would he find out i dont think eeves droping is right cause he wouldnt tell anyone i reckon

[spirit]

Well as far as "A" constellations or stars, here's all the ones I can name off the top of my head:

Auriga (c)
Aquila (c)
Altair (s)
Antares (s)
Aldebaran (s)
Argo (c)
Aquarius (c)
Andromeda (c)
Alioth (s)
Arcturus (s)
Ara (c)
Algedi (s)
Albireo (s)
Achernar (s)
Alnitak (s)

So we'll see, if it is indeed Regulus, if Rowlings uses a star/constellation name ;)



Anyone want a wager on a name?
;)

[VioletFalcon129]

I like Alioth, Altair, Aldebaran, and Antares.

Heads up:

I'll be gone all weekend, so don't expect a reply from old Vi. *sighs of relief*

...

Oi.

I care, but I won't be here.

-Vi

[spirit]

I like Alioth, Altair, Aldebaran, and Antares.

Heads up:

I'll be gone all weekend, so don't expect a reply from old Vi. *sighs of relief*

...

Oi.

I care, but I won't be here.

-Vi

Are you back yet? ::Taps foot impatiently:: ;) Tis your turn to ask a question, I believe. :D

[VioletFalcon129]

:D I'm back.

Like, as in a trivia question?

What's that got to do with R.A.B.?

juuuust kidding.

-Vi

[Wolfshead]

Here's a new idea - perhaps rather than killing Regulus, Voldemort turned him into none other than Trevor the Toad! :eek: Luna kisses Trevor at the start of book 7 and he turns back into Regulus and becomes the Godfather Harry never had :D

[Wonko The Sane]

Ah, the locket. I'd forgotten about that.


I can't remember if the locket was supposed to have any engravings on it, such as a large S, or a snake. Presumably such a marking would have been mentioned in the passage if the locket was indeed the horcrux.

So, how about it? Regulus stashed the locket in his parents house before he was killed? Interestingly, if he did, the locket is now rightfully Harry's...!


Not necessarily. If nobody noticed the insignia on the locket it wouldn't have been recorded, and Rowling doesn't like to be too obvious about things like that. Furthermore Regulus could have put some kind of concealment charm on the locket to hide its identifying marks.

But then there's the question: What happens to the locket? Do they throw it away? Does Kreacher get it? Does Mundungus steal it? Where does it end up?

Anyway, if it IS Regulus and too many people have figured it out she'll probably ruin everything and change it.

I can see a great book being written about Regulus and how he thwarted Voldemort, but if she has to introduce a completely new character to explain RAB I'll be upset.
I think that's why Regulus is casually mentioned in the early bits of OotP, and he is mentioned again in passing later in that same book or in the beginning of HBP. She introduces him so we're familiar with him.

There are a few other Bs, Borgin and Burke come to mind (but I've determined it's neither of them because I think you later learn both their first names, though I cannot now remember them) and there are a few Rs, Dumbledore's brother for example.

But for some reason when I was trying to think of an alternative to the Regulus as RAB theory I kept thinking "Royal Albus Bumbledore". :rolleyes:

I thought at one point that perhaps it was not one person but three, and the RAB stood for the first letters of their first (Rubeus, Aberforth, um..Brian?:rolleyes: ) or last names (Rumbledore, Ambledore, um...Brian?:rolleyes: ) , but the note definitely says I. And then I thought perhaps part of the initials were a title, or the person went by their middle name (Arthur Beasley? :rolleyes:) and that might not be as crazy, but I couldn't find anybody that fit. And it doesn't make sense to just pick somebody who's not at least mentioned in the story already.

Um. I just rambled myself to sleep.

[VioletFalcon129]

Now THAT is a thought. Different people... hurrum...

Well, by dear brain is not up and running at 100% power.

So, I may just let you puzzle it out/wait the 50000000 years till #7 comes out.

-Vi

ps:

"Royal Albus Bumbledore".

lovely.;)

[Wonko The Sane]

Royal Albus Bumbledore just kept ringing through my mind over and over and over again. :) It was great. SO distracting as well. :D

[Noldor_returned]

I will read the books again and see if I can find him, but I still think it was the guy from the pub.

[Wonko The Sane]

I will read the books again and see if I can find him, but I still think it was the guy from the pub.

I read them again very throroughly recently and I came to the conclusion that the most logical choice was Regulus Black.
There were one or two other characters that were mentioned that either were R's that might have B's or B's that might have R's but those were usually eliminated as the books went on.

No, I've searched. I think that if it's not Regulus it will be somebody that we haven't met before.

[Noldor_returned]

Perhaps we need to look at it from a new angle...
What if it's someone who's name starts with R, A or B, and later changed their other names, or included a nickname? That throws the field wide open...Rubeus Hagrid, Sirius Black, Alastor Moody etc.

[Talierin]

A random thought here - perhaps R.A.B. is really three people...... hmmm....

[Noldor_returned]

Good point...we all have a lot to think about, it seems.

[Wolfshead]

Perhaps we need to look at it from a new angle...
What if it's someone who's name starts with R, A or B, and later changed their other names, or included a nickname? That throws the field wide open...Rubeus Hagrid, Sirius Black, Alastor Moody etc.
What about a woman who was later married and changed her surname? :)

[Noldor_returned]

Once again, we have more to look at. Search one and all, for RAB!

[Wonko The Sane]

What about a woman who was later married and changed her surname? :)

I was thinking more along the lines of someone who goes by their middle name A, and whose surname was a B who has an R people just don't know about.

Say someone is christened Romulus Aberforth Bunglywillow and just decides to have people call him Abe. He'd be an A.B.

I think we need not think of somebody who changed their name, as I think that might be a bit too obscure. But people with two of the initials (R.B., A.B. R.A.) should be considered. :)

[Noldor_returned]

Remus Lupin? What is his middle name?
Speaking of Remus, some of you may know about Roman mythology and the importance of this name. Remus, and his brother Romulus, built Rome. They then ruled it together. Eventually Remus is killed by his brother.
So is it possible Remus has a brother? A brother with a different last name, as Wonko suggested, Romulus Aberforth Bunglywillow.

[Wonko The Sane]

Remus Lupin? What is his middle name?
Speaking of Remus, some of you may know about Roman mythology and the importance of this name. Remus, and his brother Romulus, built Rome. They then ruled it together. Eventually Remus is killed by his brother.
So is it possible Remus has a brother? A brother with a different last name, as Wonko suggested, Romulus Aberforth Bunglywillow.

We, as far as I know, do not know Remus's middle name.

I did know the story of Remus and Romulus, which is why I chose the name Romulus for my fake RAB name. :) Because I have often thought that Remus might have had a brother called Romulus, but I can't think why he'd have a surname beginning with B.
Unless Remus changed his name to Lupin (obvious significance there) in order to avoid shaming his family when he was bitten?

[VioletFalcon129]

Nnn.

Remus....

You htink it could be his brother? Weird...

the idea of it being a middle name user, or multiple people...

dang...

to many brain things for my strained little mind...

(and laziness...)

-Vi

[Sangahyando]

Regulus Attilius Black. Marcus Attilius Regulus led the assault against Phoenician and Carthaginian strongholds during the First Punic War. He was also a consul in the senate. Going along with Latin names, I suppose Regulus Attilius Black works, Marcus Attilius Regulus. :rolleyes: :eek: :D. I worked that out and I'm only eleven.

Sangahyando, great-grandson of Castamir the Usurper.

[Noldor_returned]

Nice work there. I meant to bring this up a while ago, and I found some good evidence to suggest it was Reggie. First of all we need to examine the facts:

Regulus was a Death Eater
He was killed by either Voldemort or someone working for Voldemort
He was killed because he tried to back out of his commitmentWell, that shows that he was decent person after all. Maybe, in an attempt to do some last good deed to clear his name, he attempted to destroy the Horcruxes. But then the question is, how did he know of the Horcruxes?

There are several possible answers to this, but one that is more likely than the others. Here it is:

Voldemort, being arrogant was boasting to his Death Eaters about being immortal because he had performed the powerful Dark Magic. There is a quote from Goblet to support this:
'And then I ask myself, but how could they have believed I would not rise again? They, who knew the steps I took, long ago, to guard myself against mortal death? They, who had seen proofs of the immensity of my power, in the times when I was mightier than any wizard living?'

Then we have this quote:

'...I, who have gone further than anybody along the path that leads to immortality. You know my goal-to conquer death. And now, I was tested, and it appeared that one or more of my experiments had worked...'


So put these together, what does it say? The Death Eaters, or at least some of them knew Voldemort had done something, such as create Horcruxes to become immortal.

Something similar is done by Sauron- he creates a Ring, and pours his soul into it, now believing himself immortal. The fact that he could still be killed if the Ring was destroyed did not prey on his mind, because he did not expect anyone to travel across Mordor all the way to Orodruin without his knowledge.

Voldemort does the same. Having the Death Eaters know that he could only be killed if the Horcruxes were destroyed saves lest him believe he will be stronger because the Death Eaters will fear him, knowing that they cannot revolt and escape because it will do almost no damage to him. They also figure he has strongly guarded his Horcruxes, so why should they worry about them?

Yet then I wondered whether Regulus would have been told directly, or heard it fro someone else? It is unlikely Voldemort trusted Mr. Black with this secret, however another Death Eater might have told him. Hearing this, he tried to finish Voldemort off, but had small success.

[Wolfshead]

Regulus Attilius Black. Marcus Attilius Regulus led the assault against Phoenician and Carthaginian strongholds during the First Punic War. He was also a consul in the senate. Going along with Latin names, I suppose Regulus Attilius Black works, Marcus Attilius Regulus. :rolleyes: :eek: :D. I worked that out and I'm only eleven.
Well done, it makes sense. I'm a university history student and I didn't know that :eek: We'll see if you're right now :)

I've done a search trying to find out what the A could stand for and found some interesting things out. Then I read the Wikipedia article (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regulus_Black) on Regulus which told me everything I'd just researched :rolleyes: So I'll just quote a section of that rather than explain it all myself.

Subsequently, in January 2006, the name Arcturus indeed appeared as that of one of Sirius and Regulus's ancestors in a hand-drawn sketch of the Black family tree made by J.K. Rowling herself. Therefore, it is plausible, although not confirmed in any way, that Regulus could have had Arcturus as a middle name. However, it has also been noted in the books (and the aforementioned family tree) that Regulus had an uncle whose name was Alphard, after whom some speculate that Regulus may have instead been named.

The astronomical associations of Regulus are also worth considering. Regulus is a bright star in the constellation of Leo; another bright star in that constellation, close to Regulus, is Algieba. There is a less bright star, Aldhafera in the same constellation. Notably, Algieba and Regulus are two of five stars in Leo which can be seen even during bad light pollution: light amid the darkness (and if Regulus was a 'good' person in the midst of evil death eaters, he would be 'light amid the darkness').

Origin of name

In astronomical terms, Regulus is the brightest star in the constellation Leo, the Lion; another name for this star is "cor leonis" because it is situated at the lion's heart.

In Latin, "Regulus" means '"little king" (or 'petty king'). It is the Latin name for the basilisk, which itself derives from the Greek Basiliskos, which is also cognate to "little king".

Wild speculation, partially based on the fact that J.K. Rowling has used name origins before (like using Sirius [the dog star] Black as the name for a man who can change form to become a black dog), might somehow tie Regulus to Gryffindor, as the house symbol is a lion. It has since been confirmed that Regulus was a member of Slytherin, but the possibility that his name is a reference to "lionheartedness" has yet to be addressed. Rowling has also made several references to the tie between Gryffindor and Slytherin: e.g. the fact that Godric Gryffindor and Salazar Slytherin were good friends before Slytherin began showing his prejudice for 'Mudblood' students, and Harry possessing qualities which make him eligible for both Slytherin and Gryffindor. It is possible that the symbolism of Regulus' name being linked both to a basilisk and a lion is yet another facet of this continuing theme.

Alternatively, the basilisk connection could also mean a predisposition towards Slytherin, as a basilisk was revealed as the especial pet of Salazar Slytherin in the Chamber of Secrets. The fact that Regulus once was a Death Eater and tried to escape them implies both of the above.

The name can also be connected to Marcus Atilius Regulus, a famous Roman martyr. This might be a clue from Rowling, saying he died as a martyr. In his story, Regulus claimed to have been given a slow-acting poison in order to help Rome. This was a lie, but it served his purpose. Of course, this does not tell fans if Regulus Black drank a slow-acting poison in the cave, or if this is once again a lie.

Regulus is also the name of a fallen angel.

[Firawyn]

Okay let's loo at the theorys on the table.

The three differnt people theory...I doubt it. One, the letter was written using the pronoun 'I'...aka one person.Another point is that he/she said they'd probobly be dead...Hagrid and other posabilities are still alive and well.

Regulus Black...possable, but a little too obvious for Rowling, in my opinion.

So who is RAB...I have a theory that the 'R', stands for Ravenclaw, and the A.B are someone's annitials. According tot he sorting hat Ravenclaws are wise, and one would have to be if they were out hunting holocruxes, and they are clever, again a must.

See this site for the sorting hat verses:
http://www.hp-lexicon.org/hogwarts/sorting_hat.html

So perhaps RAB is Amerlia Bones....her house is unknown, if she was a Ravenclaw, then RAB fits. She works for the Misistry, so she had to be smart, suits a Ravenclaw....thoughts?

[Durin's Bane]

A strange idea came to my mind while posting in the Horcruxes thread. Supposedly R.A.B. is Regulus Araminta Black, what if the note was like a diversion. Still being a Death Eater Black moves the Horcrux to another location and leaves the note it has been destroyed. Voldemort kills him so he would not reveal that secret.

[Noldor_returned]

That's pretty whacked, even for Voldemort. Someone who is willing and loyal to retrieve it is killed by Voldemort? Voldemort values loyalty.

A problem with Amelia Bones is that although we don't know her house, Susan Bones her niece is in Hufflepuff...usually families are in the same house, although there can be exceptions (i.e: Parvati and Padma Patil)

[Firawyn]

You said it there are exceptions...

Susan may be in Hufflepuff but she acts the part. Amelia is smart, and a high acheiver. She doesn't fit the Hufflepuff profile.

[Majimaune]

Yeah i'd have to agree with you on that Firawyn. She was in the Ministry and she was a Minister of something wasnt she? She would have been in Ravenclaw for sure.

[Firawyn]

*grin* Thank you...anyway, that is my standing theory. :cool:

[Sangahyando]

One must consider that still who better to destroy the locket's powers than Regulus. His express access as a Death Eater would have almost cancelled Voldemort considering it was him. How he knew where it was, I don't know. But, perhaps that was why he was murdered. He discovered the Horcrux, he realised how far Tom had gone and it drove him to the edge. :confused:

[Majimaune]

Hey people. I havent posted in this area for a while so here I go.

On another forum there is a thread (http://www.chronicles-network.com/forum/33053-great-theory.html). I dont really care if you guys read the thread and click on the link in it but its the last post on that page thats there that might interest some people here.

[Erestor Arcamen]

how about the idea R.A.B. ws three people? someone said that, makes sense, kind of unexpected like J.K.R. likes to do...I'll post more later

[Noldor_returned]

Another possibility is whether the RAB stands for someone's real name, or if it is a nickname. For instance Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot and Prongs. What if somebody, or three somebodies, wanted to overthrow Voldy, but also let their "identity" be known. That throws it all wide open, and it could be anyone.

[Majimaune]

Hmmmmm interesting. Now I have to think more.... or i wait til July 21st.

[Noldor_returned]

But that's another 4 months...

Let's go with EA's theory then, for now. R= anyone from Rubeus to Remus. A= Albus or anyone down to Alastor. B= (Help me on this one :S)

[Majimaune]

Black maybe? Might be Bert?

[Wolfshead]

Let's go with EA's theory then, for now. R= anyone from Rubeus to Remus. A= Albus or anyone down to Alastor. B= (Help me on this one :S)
I tell you, it's going to be Regulus A. Black. I reckon my argument on the first page of this thread is the most convincing solution so far.

[Noldor_returned]

Let's take a look at that statement:

I tell you, it's going to be Regulus A. Black. I reckon my argument on the first page of this thread is the most convincing solution so far.

You think that your argument is right? Now I'm not having a go at you, but has there ever been a time when you didn't think your argument was right? But what was your argument?

Quote:
To the Dark Lord
I know I will be dead long before you read this but I want you to know that it was I who discovered your secret. I have stolen the real Horcrux and intend to destroy it as soon as I can. I face death in the hope that when you meet your match, you will be mortal once more.
R.A.B.

From page 569 of the British adults edition of HBP.

So who does everyone think is the mysterious R.A.B.? The answer that immediately springs to mind is Regulus Black - Sirius' brother. Here's a quote from OoTP - the only time Regulus has been mentioned (copied with a little help from e-books...).


Quote:
'But… why did you… ?'

'Leave?' Sirius smiled bitterly and ran his fingers through his long, unkempt hair. 'Because I hated the whole lot of them: my parents, with their pure-blood mania, convinced that to be a Black made you practically royal… my idiot brother, soft enough to believe them… that's him.'

Sirius jabbed a finger at the very bottom of the tree, at the name 'Regulus Black'. A date of death (some fifteen years previously) followed the date of birth.

'He was younger than me,' said Sirius, 'and a much better son, as I was constantly reminded.'

'But he died,' said Harry.

'Yeah,' said Sirius. 'Stupid idiot… he joined the Death Eaters.'

'You're kidding!'

'Come on, Harry, haven't you seen enough of this house to tell what kind of wizards my family were?' said Sirius testily.

'Were - were your parents Death Eaters as well?'

'No, no, but believe me, they thought Voldemort had the right idea, they were all for the purification of the wizarding race, getting rid of Muggle-borns and having pure-bloods in charge. They weren't alone, either, there were quite a few people, before Voldemort showed his true colours, who thought he had the right idea about things… they got cold feet when they saw what he was prepared to do to get power, though. But I bet my parents thought Regulus was a right little hero for joining up at first.'

'Was he killed by an Auror?' Harry asked tentatively.

'Oh, no,' said Sirius. 'No, he was murdered by Voldemort. Or on Voldemort's orders, more likely; I doubt Regulus was ever important enough to be killed by Voldemort in person. From what I found out after he died, he got in so far, then panicked about what he was being asked to do and tried to back out. Well, you don't just hand in your resignation to Voldemort. It's a lifetime of service or death.'
I reckon Regulus did indeed have second thoughts about what he was being asked to do once it became apparent how evil Voldemort actually was; but rather than chickening out, he tried to help bring about the downfall of the Dark Lord before eventually being killed.

Another piece of evidence that points towards one of Voldemort's own is the usage of the term 'Dark Lord'. As we know, Voldemort's followers used the term to refer to their leader - Snape was forever calling him the Dark Lord, when most others used You-Know-Who. It makes sense to assume it was someone who had served him, or held him in high regard, that wrote the letter.

But what does the A stand for? I have only one idea in regards to that - and I feel it's highly unlikely. I expect we'll have to wait till the next book to find that out. Here's another quote from when Harry and Sirius are looking at the tapestry in OoTP.


Quote:
'I haven't looked at this for years. There's Phineas Nigellus… my great-great-grandfather, see? … least popular Headmaster Hogwarts ever had… and Araminta Mehflua… cousin of my mothers… tried to force through a Ministry Bill to make Muggle-hunting legal…
So, Regulus Araminta Black? But to use a womans name as a middle name for a man... not likely methinks. So for now I'll settle for Regulus A. Black.


Yes, it is a good argument, but not flawless. All we can say is just guesswork. I'm assuming Rowling would have thought that fanatics would be searching for the answer, so why would she make it someone already introduced? Mayhaps help with storyline. Maybe she didn't just to keep us guessing. My vote goes to waiting another 2 months and reading about it.

[Majimaune]

Just til July. Its not that far away. Then again I will be at the snow when it comes out so I wont be able to read it til I come back. Only a week though, gives time for every else in my house to read it.

[Wolfshead]

You think that your argument is right? Now I'm not having a go at you, but has there ever been a time when you didn't think your argument was right? But what was your argument?
I believe my solution is the most viable solution offered so far. Perhaps it's not perfect, but I reckon it has fewer failings than the alternatives on offer.

[Noldor_returned]

Your theory may have the least holes, but one theory doesn't fit all. If Regulus Black was powerful enough to destroy the Horcruxes, why did he join Voldemort to begin with, and not tell everyone about them when he tried to escape? See, the definite known timeline is:

Voldemort rise to power, and the Order of the Phoenix is established.
Regulus becomes a follower of Voldemort.
Regulus tried to leave his service because he didn't like what he was supposed to do.So sometime after Voldemort was in power (or before), one of the Horcruxes was destroyed by RAB. If RAB didn't want Voldemort to live and did go after the Horcruxes, why did he do it alone? Sirius was a member of the Order, so why didn't Regulus seek sanctuary? There he could have asked for Dumbledore's assistance. After all, Dumbledore is the only wizard Voldemort ever truly feared.

I'm not saying you're definitely wrong, but I am asking why it would have been Regulus that did it and why alone.

On the other hand, "A" may stand for a nickname, such as the ones Sirius, James, Remus and Peter had. I doubt this though, because Regulus and Sirius do not appear to be close.

[Wolfshead]

If we knew the answers to all these questions you pose, what would be the point in reading the last book? ;) All will be revealed when the book is published I'm sure.

[Noldor_returned]

If we knew the answers to all these questions you pose, what would be the point in reading the last book? ;) All will be revealed when the book is published I'm sure.

I'll agree to that.:)

[Majimaune]

I'll agree to that.:)I will as well.

[Barliman Butterbur]

What's the point of all the speculation and arguing? We'll all know the truth soon enough.

Barley

[Majimaune]

What's the point of all the speculation and arguing? We'll all know the truth soon enough.

BarleyThat is one of the best things I have heard in this thread.

[Noldor_returned]

But until we do know, why not take potshot guesses as to what the answer will be? None of us will know 100%, so if we're right it just makes it better.

[Majimaune]

Good point.

Ok Harry will be killed by Voldie and Neville will run out of the bushes and kill Voldie. Ten Ginny will fall in love with Neville, and Ron and Hermione will end up together. Happy World.

R.A.B. will be three people, their last names (something we havent really spent too much time on). Black will/wont be the last one.