Remus Lupin's daughter, Ellie, had always been a curious and compassionate child. At just seven years old, she was perceptive beyond her years, often sensing the silent struggles her father endured. One night, during a particularly bright full moon, Ellie was awakened by sounds of anguish coming from the basement. Her father had always warned her to stay away during these times, but tonight, her concern overpowered her fear.
Slipping out of bed, Ellie tiptoed down the stairs, each step echoing in the silent house. She could hear her father's pained groans growing louder. "Daddy?" she whispered, but there was no response. Her small hand reached for the doorknob to the basement, where the noise was most intense.
Inside, Remus Lupin, half-transformed into Moony, writhed in pain. The sight was horrifying, but Ellie was determined. "Daddy, it's me," she said, stepping closer. Moony's eyes, usually kind and warm, were now wild and feral. He growled, a low and menacing sound, but Ellie kept approaching, hoping her love could soothe him.
Before she could reach him, Moony lunged. His sharp teeth sank into her small arm. Ellie screamed, the pain immediate and excruciating. Her cry pierced through the fog of Moony's mind, momentarily bringing a flicker of humanity back to Remus. He recoiled, horrified at what he'd done, but it was too late. The damage was done.
Hours later, Ellie woke up in her father's arms, her arm bandaged but throbbing. She saw the anguish in Remus's eyes, a guilt that words could not capture. "I'm so sorry, Ellie," he whispered, tears streaming down his face.
Ellie, still in pain but understanding the love behind her father's regret, reached out with her uninjured arm. "It's okay, Daddy. I know you didn't mean to."
In that moment, their bond grew stronger, forged in the crucible of pain and love. They both knew their lives would never be the same, but they would face the future together, no matter how uncertain it was.
