Disclaimer - I own nothing you recognise.
Written for the Hangman Competition. A-Angel.
The Next Chapter
He was floating. It was an odd feeling, one of complete freedom, yet he somehow still felt shackled. His mind was a muddle of confusion as he tried to remember what happened to cause this, but it was all a flash of light and a cry of pain from someone... not him.
Harry!
With a sudden focus that scared him, he pictured his godson, suddenly, surrounded at the Ministry. He hoped to god that Remus had kept him safe and alive while Sirius couldn't. Fighting against the shackles that seemed to hold him, Sirius let out a growl of frustration.
He had to get back there, he had to help! He had to save Harry.
"Sirius."
The voice stopped him in his tracks as he looked wildly around him. She was behind him, shining slightly in the darkness, a faint white light outlining her so he could see her clearly.
"Marlene."
"It's been a long time," she greeted, the smirk he'd always loved on her face.
"Am I...?"
"Dead? I'd say so," she replied as she neared him. She reached out a hand to caress his cheek. "I'm sorry. If it makes you feel better, Harry is okay. Albus arrived in time."
Sirius let out a sigh of relief, before his brow furrowed.
"This is going to kill him," he whimpered. "He only just got me back."
Marlene nodded. "It will be hard for him, but he has his friends, Remus, he won't be alone."
"You've been watching?"
"Of course. Come now, Sirius, it's time to leave."
"Will I be able to watch?"
She nodded, a bright smile on her face. "First though... I think there are a few people you'd like to see."
"Marlene? Are you an angel?"
"Angel? No. But I died loving you, and I still love you. That's why it's me who came to collect you. Come, Sirius."
She took his hand and pulled him gently but firmly.
"Where are we going?"
"To... the next chapter... and James is waiting to kick your ass, so move it."
Seconds later, all that was left in the darkness of nothing was an echo of Sirius' barking laughter.