𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐃𝐀𝐑𝐊𝐄𝐒𝐓 𝐃𝐀𝐘 . 𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐎𝐃𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐓

𝐋𝐀 𝐕È𝐑𝐈𝐓È 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋È𝐄

1993;

Lupin didn't spare her another glance before he bolted into the other room, forcefully swinging the door open, causing some of its wood to scatter on the floor. Viola cautiously trailed behind him, unsure of what she would witness next. And what she saw was beyond anything she could have imagined.

Sirius Black stood before the trio of Gryffindors, his curly hair matted and dirty to his shoulders. His body was skinny, only covered with ripped up clothes that were yellowed.

From behind, she could see the signs of his rough and harsh conditions. Her heart raced and her eyes widened as she realized it was him. No doubt about it.

"Well, well, Sirius looking rather ragged, aren't we?" Remus said, gripping his wand. "Finally, the flesh reflects the madness within."

"Well, you'd know all about the madness within, wouldn't you Remus?" Sirius retorted from where he was on the ground.

What unfolded was a surprise to everyone. Remus lowered his wand, helping Sirius up and pulling him into a tight hug. The two then mumbled about finding someone.

The emotions Viola felt were overwhelming, almost making her knees weak. Her hands visibly shook as she remained hidden behind the door, barely visible to anyone blinded by rage like Sirius had been. Her heart was racing and her breathing grew heavy.

Her mind blocked out everyone's bickering, and she sensed a presence behind her. Knowing it wasn't Lupin this time, she braced herself for someone worse than Snape.

The man's eyes met hers, but any feelings behind them were unreadable. With little to go off, on her end. Snape pulled her aside the door as he ventured into the room, wand extended.

"Expeliarmus!" Snape casted, as Sirius's wand flew out of his hand. "Vengeance is sweet. How I hoped I'd be the one to catch you. I told Dumbledore you were helping a friend into the castle and now here's the proof."

"Brilliant Snape," Said Sirius sarcastically as he walked closer to the man. "Once again you put your and penetrating mind to the task and as usual come to the wrong conclusion. Now if you'll excuse us Remus and I have unfinished business to attend to."

His words prompted Snape to press his wand forcefully against Sirius's throat, causing Lupin to step closer in defense.

"Give me a reason, I beg you!" Snape exclaimed, his eyes ablaze, a stark contrast to his usual icy demeanor.

"Severus, don't be a fool." Lupin said shaking his head.

"He can't help it, it's a habit by now."

"Sirius! Be quiet!"

"Oh, quite yourself Remus!"

"You two," Snape spat, halting their incessant bickering. "Quarreling like an old married couple."

"Why don't you run along and play with your chemistry set!" Sirius spat back, his insult provoking Snape to shove him back with his wand.

"I could do it, you know." Snape's threat rolled off his tongue effortlessly as he swiftly pulled Viola out of her hiding spot, positioning her right beside him with a firm grip on her forearm. "I could do it right here, right now, in front of your daughter."

Sirius's eyes flickered to Viola, and an ache for her filled the depths of his heart. He knew she was not the same young girl that he once knew, but he still saw the innocence and affection in her eyes. If only he had known it would be the last time he would see her for twelve years.

Viola's throat felt parched, her eyes welling up with tears, but she blinked them away swiftly.

"You! Don't you dare lay a hand on her!" Sirius's eyes went wide, and he darted towards Viola, hoping to snatch her away from Snape, but Snape was a step ahead. He jabbed his wand towards Sirius once more.