The Unknown Thief
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood PrinceThe fake Horcrux locket reveals a note from R.A.B., who stole the real one, leading to the discovery that it was Regulus Black.
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Bearing strength in each event
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The Discovery of the Fake

The Revelation
The Empty Locket
After Dumbledore's death, Harry finds the locket they retrieved from the cave is a fake. Inside is a note from someone calling themselves R.A.B.
The Note
The note says: '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. R.A.B.'
The Mystery
Harry is puzzled. He does not know who R.A.B. is. The note suggests that someone else has been working against Voldemort.
The Search for Answers

The Hunt
The Clues
Harry, Ron, and Hermione discuss the note. Hermione researches R.A.B. but finds nothing immediately. Harry suspects it might be Regulus Black, Sirius's brother.
The Confirmation
Later, Harry learns that Regulus Black was a Death Eater who defected. He likely stole the locket. The initials match.
The Implications
The real Horcrux is still out there. R.A.B. (Regulus) died trying to destroy it. The hunt continues.
late June, after Dumbledore's death
late June, after the funeral