The One Where Sirius Finds A Potion
Sirius Black wandered through the deserted corridors of Hogwarts Castle, his footsteps echoing softly against the stone walls. The waxing gibbous hung high in the night sky, casting an ethereal glow over the familiar halls. It was during nights like these that his thoughts often turned to Remus Lupin, his best friend, and the secret he carried within him.
As he reached the entrance to the Gryffindor common room, Sirius found himself hesitating. He knew Remus would be awake, restless, and unable to sleep, for the transformation was only a night away. With a deep breath, Sirius pushed open the common room door and stepped inside.
Remus sat alone by the fireplace, the flickering flames casting shadows upon his tired face. He looked up as Sirius entered, his eyes holding a mix of relief and weariness. "Sirius," he greeted softly. "Couldn't sleep either?"
Sirius approached him, taking a seat beside Remus. "No, Moony. My mind won't let me rest, not when I know what's coming tomorrow night." His voice was laced with concern and a touch of guilt. "I hate that you have to go through this every month."
Remus managed a faint smile, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "You don't need to worry about me, Padfoot. I've been dealing with it for years now. Besides, I have you and James here to support me."
Sirius reached out, gently placing a hand on Remus's shoulder. "It's not enough, Remus. You shouldn't have to bear this burden alone. I wish there was something more we could do."
Remus leaned into the touch, appreciating the gesture. "I know you'd do anything for me, Sirius, but this is something I have to face on my own. I've accepted it, even if it's not easy."
Sirius's eyes flickered with determination. "But what if we don't have to accept it? What if there's a way to help you, to ease your pain?"
Remus's curiosity sparked. "What are you saying, Sirius?"
Sirius took a deep breath, his voice barely above a whisper. "I've been doing some research, asking around. There are whispers of a potion, a concoction that could help you retain your human mind during the transformation. It's risky, untested, but... I'm willing to try anything if it means you won't have to go through this agony."
Remus stared at Sirius, a mix of hope and skepticism dancing in his amber eyes. "Is this true? Can such a potion exist?"
Sirius nodded earnestly. "I can't make any promises, Moony. But I'll do everything in my power to find it. I won't rest until we've exhausted every option."
Remus's expression softened, gratitude shining through. "Sirius... you're truly the best friend anyone could ever have."
Sirius grinned, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Well, I had to be your friend, Remus. Who else would I prank and cause mischief with? Hogwarts would be far too dull without you."
They both chuckled, the weight of their conversation momentarily lifted. But deep down, the determination to find a solution remained strong. They would face this challenge together, as they always had, with unwavering loyalty and a bond that surpassed words.
As the moonlight spilled through the windows, illuminating their faces, Sirius and Remus sat side by side, plotting their next move. They were resolved to rewrite the fate that had been thrust upon Remus, determined to uncover a way to ease his pain and ensure that they had an unbreakable friendship or perhaps, something more...