A/N: In which Vivian and Sirius go to Dumbledore.

gwenwesley: She does feel a loss of Regulus's friendship, and he definitely is being a bit unreasonable. It makes sense for him to begin moving away from her though, despite it being hard to read (and write!)

Toffeeloveryes: True, hadn't thought of that whilst writing but it is a bit eerie. Also true about the Black brothers having the capability of being very cold but very warm. They're both such interesting characters!

firstofhername: Thanks!

LunaEvanna Longbottom: My lips are sealed on her reaction, but it wont be long before she finds out that he's the one writing her those poems

JuniKitty4427: Yup, soon! I'm really excited to write that scene!

.happers: True, he has hasn't he? She'll tell him eventually, probably before the end of Season 1

Marnie Quiera: Yes, definitely true, Vivian and Sirius are both insane closet romantics it's not even funny. I can see them both pretending to scoff at Valentine's Day while being just as sappy as everyone else lol

aradia27: Thank you! Not entirely sure how the plot with the arranged marriage will end yet. That's one of those plots that I'm waiting to decide on until we get closer to the climax of the story. I am tentatively planning on Vivian still living at the Blair estate in the future, after Sirius escapes from Azkaban (hence no disowning), but this is dependent of a few other plot ideas I have for the future, so I don't know for sure yet

puppyduckster: I concur ;) Gavin and Vivian are better off as friends. In the beginning I was playing with the idea of having them date each other, but it didn't feel right. As for Lily, I think she does like the attention James gives her despite her pretending to hate him. She's definitely starting to warm up to him. It's hard to write Regulus being so cold towards Vivian, but it has to happen in order to pave the way towards what I'm planning for him in the future. As you know, I have a lot of plans concerning his redemption in Season 2, and there will be many future scenes where him and Vivian will become close friends again and end up trusting each other!

Anne J Black: Thank you! :) I'm honored and so glad you like the story/my writing. I can't get enough of the romance either. It's been such a long time coming that I just want them to be together properly and give up on the stubbornness!

Chrysanthemum: Hmm I've actually never thought about Sirius confronting Vivian's dad. I shall keep that in mind. As for Regulus, true, it must be hard for him to watch Vivian fall for his brother. It makes a person wonder what he might end up doing about it, doesn't it?

guest: Eventually she'll come clean about everything!

Gu3st: True true I'm thinking though that Vivian isn't being that obvious about it. She's not skipping that many meals for it to be that noticeable

purplemoonwaves: Thank you!

Guest: Thank you! I wish there were more SlytherinOC/Sirius stories that go into detail about the pureblood lifestyle and all the consequences of them being together. I've been trying to keep it as realistic as possible in terms of Vivian's perspective on it all, hence how long it's taken her to open herself up to him. I suppose there is a certain sadness in Isobel Blair's character, which Vivian sees as weakness. Her mother is a representation of the life Vivian doesn't want to live (constantly tip-toeing around her husband, not standing up for herself, her opinions being disregarded, etc). I've actually never considered why her mother never had any other children, if there was a real health reason or if it was just because she wasn't able to conceive another child...so unfortunately I don't have a dramatic/interesting response to your question! Also all HP nerds are most welcome here! ;)

Guest1515: I love how you phrased that! I think you're right about how they connect as souls but still need time to get to know each other in all the other ways - which they will!

Tumblranon45: I don't have a tumblr for my writing but I have been thinking about making one for a while now. If I do, I'll let you all know

Reader.00: Yes, she has lots of happy memories now! There will be a patronus scene soon!

remifoster1313: This chapter will go into detail about what happens with Dumbledore. And I like Vivian and Gavin as friends too, I don't think they'd have the same relationship if they were anything more to each other and it's too much fun to write the friendship! Gavin will be around in the future and will probably support Vivian through the hard times ahead when Sirius is in Azkaban. Haven't thought about it too much since it's a bit too far away but I know I want him to stick around!

Thanks for all the reviews/love on the last chapter! I have had such an inspired week. You know how you're just sitting around and suddenly story ideas just crash into your head and they absolutely consume you? I am on a HP kick right now guys. All I can say is that Bill and Charlie had both better watch out because I am coming for them. At some point after Vivicendium Season 1. But soon.

On that note, I hope you all enjoy this update!


Chapter Fifty | Nervus rerum

[The sinew of things; the major things]

Vivian has only been to Dumbledore's office a handful of times. The first had been when she was a third year and had gotten caught up in a dispute between a group of Slytherins and several first year Gryffindors. House rivalries are a long-held cause of conflict, and she hadn't been immune to them even as a gangly thirteen year old. In fact, in hindsight, they had meant more to her then than they do now.

The second time had been as a fourth year, when she had called Lottie Hardwick a mudblood after she had stolen one of her quills in Charms class. Lottie hadn't, actually, stolen a quill. Vivian had only said it to gain favor with her housemates. Reputations had mattered to her more back then, too.

The third time, she was in sixth year. George Kingsley had been spreading rumors about how she had shagged him in the broom closet near the first year Potions classroom. After several lewd comments made in passing, she had asked around to learn his schedule and had cornered him after class. She'd gotten several weeks of detention for what she had done to him, but it had been worth it.

The last time she had been here had been several months ago, when her and Sirius had gotten into that duel by the Black Lake. It's a bit ironic, really, that they are both here again, for such different reasons.

She's been nervous all day. Partially because of being around Sirius again but mostly because she's terrified of telling Dumbledore about her task. What if he punishes her for it? If he were to expel her, she would have to tell her parents the reasons for it. Gavin, of course, had been quick to inform her that she's worrying too much, and had even gone so far as to commend her for her bravery, but it hadn't made her feel any better. She isn't brave. She doesn't have a single spark of Gryffindor courage within her blood.

"You're doing the right thing," Gavin had said as they had waited outside of Defense Against the Dark Arts for Anderson to finish up with his current class. "If you ask me, you should've done this months ago. Dumbledore will know exactly what to do."

She had given him a strained smile and hadn't responded. Would Dumbledore know what to do? Has he ever dealt with this sort of thing before? This isn't some mundane issue between students. This is a matter concerning the Dark Lord. Dumbledore is powerful and all, but how could he help her?

Sirius seems convinced that he can, though. In Charms, he'd sent her a note that had only two words on it. It had made Vivian's heart race, but not for the reasons she's begun to see as normal, where it concerns him. The words were, 'After detention?', and they were clearly referring to their trip to the Headmaster's office – a trip he is adamant about accompanying her on, for 'moral support'. She had given him a brusque nod and had turned her attention back to Flitwick's lecture, palms sweating and feeling more nervous than she would ever admit.

'It's not your fault,' she's been telling herself all day. 'You didn't ask for the Dark Lord to give you this task. You didn't want it.'

But will Dumbledore see it that way, or will he only see her as a weak-willed student who is putting his school at risk? What if he does expel her? What would she do?

It's near to impossible to pay attention in Potions. Even Slughorn seems to notice her lack of focus because he pulls her aside after class to ask if she's alright. While he's at it, he harps on her for a few minutes about her marks ("Minerva tells me that you're close to failing Transfiguration, Vivian, and you haven't done that well on last week's assignment – ") before she manages to tell him that she's going to be late for her next class and he lets her leave.

Her mind is in shambles, going back and forth all day. If it isn't for the detention after dinner, she thinks she would have chickened out entirely, but as it is…

"Sugar Quills," Sirius announces to the gargoyles outside of Dumbledore's office.

His hand is grasping hers, and the glance he sends her way makes her wonder if he's only holding her hand because he's afraid she's going to bolt off. It's definitely a little strange, feeling his fingers entwine with hers. A few months ago, she never would have thought that she'd be standing here with Sirius Black, about to spill her guts to the Headmaster.

"…How'd you know the password?" she hoarsely wonders as the gargoyles jump aside and the wall opens for them. She doesn't truly care about his answer, but she feels the need to break the silence between them, which has been building since the end of their detention when Sirius had first taken her hand and had led her to the seventh floor.

As they step through the threshold, Sirius shrugs, "Asked McGonagall."

This makes sense, of course, seeing as McGonagall is the Deputy Headmistress and all, but his brief explanation makes her stomach curdle with dread. She stops at the bottom of the circular staircase, her mouth a tight line, and demands, "And what did you tell McGonagall when she asked why you wanted it?"

Sirius sighs and runs a hand through his hair. He turns to face her and reaches up to put a hand on her shoulder, his other hand still tangled with hers. In a calm voice, he responds, "Relax. I told her that I wanted to talk to him about my parents. I didn't mention you at all, so stop giving me that death stare."

Vivian feels immediately chagrined and ducks her head, awkwardly clearing her throat. "Right," she mumbles, feeling quite out of place. His hand is warm in hers and by all rights, it should give her strength, but she feels a bit claustrophobic instead, as if she's being backed into a corner. It's a ridiculous feeling to have since she willingly agreed to this, but she can't shake the feeling even as Sirius sighs again and shuffles closer.

"Look, we might as well get it over with," he placates, speaking to her as if she's a spooked animal. "I know this…thing between us is new and a bit…"

"Unnatural," Vivian supplies, when he trails off.

Sirius rolls his eyes. "I was gonna say confusing. But anyway, we'll figure it out, so just calm down. It's not like Dumbledore's going to throw you out of Hogwarts."

Vivian purses her lips at this, wondering if he's aware that she's been worrying about that exact scenario all day. She doesn't look at him – she almost can't bring herself to – and so Sirius is left to study her downturned face for a few moments before he lifts his hand to her chin and tilts it up. Her jarring silence makes it more than obvious that she's scared out of her mind. Terrified, even.

"He's not going to throw you out, Vivian," Sirius repeats to her in a low voice that's strong and insistent.

Her hands shake. "But what if he does?" she asks, and grimaces a bit at the hoarse quality of her own voice and the way her fear leaks into it. She clears her throat again and adds, "Maybe I'm a lost cause."

These words have a startling effect on him. At once, Sirius's expression hardens, and he takes a deep breath as if he's trying to calm himself down and press back his own impatience. His other hand untangles from hers to cup her cheek, so that he's cradling her face in both his hands as he stares down at her. The force of his eyes is incredibly heavy, but in an almost invigorating way. She finds it difficult to look away from him, as if his eyes are magnetic and she's caught up in the intensity of them.

"You're not a lost cause," he tells her then, and the way he says it, urgent and resolute, makes her think that maybe he's right after all.

Her chest explodes with warmth. There's something about his adamance that does strange things to her heart. It feels like a Bludger is beating around her ribcage, and Vivian finds it difficult to breathe. Suddenly feeling immensely flustered, she swallows tightly and bats his hands away from her face with a faint, "Let go already. You're such a sap. Honestly."

And then, heart beating wildly, she shuffles back from him and ignores the smug grin that's forming on his face.

He reaches out to take her hand again, and his smirk only grows the more Vivian tries to pull away. "I think you like it," he tells her lightheartedly as they begin to ascend the stone staircase.

"I don't," Vivian tells him, but from the way she tangles her fingers more securely with his, they both know it's a lie.

Salazar, if this keeps on, she's going to turn into a royal mess.

The slight playfulness that has cropped up between them in the last few minutes disappears entirely when they reach the door at the top of the staircase. Sirius can't distract her from the dread she feels now that she's standing at the entrance of Dumbledore's office. It seems more imposing than it had the last time she was here.

Sirius doesn't say or do anything as they stand there. He seems to be waiting for her to make the first move. Maybe he realizes how difficult this is for her and how cornered she feels, despite the circumstances that have brought them to this door. Perhaps he wants her to be the one to take the next step because he doesn't want to push her any more than he already has. It would be a tiny bit endearing, if her heart wasn't beating so hard for different reasons, now.

She can't believe she's doing this. Her hand trembles in his and she closes her eyes, but this time, she forces herself not to think about the potential consequences that this impending conversation might bring. She's never been a very optimistic person, preferring to keep her head firmly on the plane of realism and logic whenever possible, but she tries, now, to instill within herself some of Sirius's obvious hope. After all, she tells herself, no matter what happens, surely it will be better than selling her soul to one of the darkest wizards in history?

Right. Finally, she steps forward and reaches for the doorknob, and when she pushes it open, she does so forcefully. It's not because she suddenly feels strong, but because she knows that if she keeps hesitating, she'll never be able to do it at all. She hears Sirius release a quiet breath at her side, but she doesn't look over at him as she untangles her hand from his and steps forward.

Dumbledore's office is empty when they walk into it. As ever, it seems to be a world entirely separate from the rest of Hogwarts, as if they've entered into some strange and beautiful dimension that is not connected to anything they've ever known. Fawkes the Phoenix coos at them from his pedestal, his feathers shining dully in the candlelight. The arched ceilings and pillars and daises look welcoming, despite their coldly regal qualities. The magnificent desk that sits atop one of those daises does not. Vivian stares at it for a long moment, battling with the fear that keeps rippling through her, and nearly jumps when a sudden voice calmly says, "I was wondering when you would come to speak with me, Miss Blair."

Turning so quickly that vertigo pulses through her, Vivian's eyes lock with Dumbledore's, who is standing in a doorway that most likely leads to his personal chambers. He's appraising her quietly behind half-moon spectacles and has a book in his hand, as if she has interrupted him whilst reading. He doesn't seem very surprised to see her, and merely studies her for one long moment before flicking his eyes behind her shoulder to where Sirius is standing. The look that captures his expression then could only be described as curious, but the way his eyes flash with knowing diminishes it slightly.

Vivian can't seem to remember how to speak, but thankfully she doesn't have to. Dumbledore sweeps into the room to settle into one of the armchairs by the large fireplace, and says, "Why don't you both take a seat. Ah, I'm afraid I gave my last Lemon Drop to young Mister Signus this afternoon. He has a preoccupation with the Forbidden Forest these days and Professor Sprout was a bit concerned…perhaps a cup of tea instead?"

With a wave of his wand, a kettle lifts into the air and begins to pour steaming tea into three cups that have been waiting on the table by the armchair, as if for this very purpose. It's a bit unnerving to think that Dumbledore has been anticipating their arrival. McGonagall had surely informed him about Sirius's desire to meet with him today, but how could he have known that Vivian would be there as well?

"Come on," Sirius whispers to her, touching her lower back to prompt her forward. Her legs shake as she steps toward the armchairs.

Dumbledore watches them with that curious expression, but say nothing until they're both settled down. He waits until their teacups are deposited into their hands before he says, "This is quite a different scenario than when we were last gathered in my office. Shall I assume that you've both reconciled with your differences?"

Vivian, still unable to speak, just clears her throat awkwardly and takes a sip of tea. As for Sirius, he appears as confident as ever when he shrugs, "Something like that," and shoots Vivian a sideways glance.

Dumbledore hums knowingly and reaches for his own teacup, which has been hovering in the air beside him until now. "Minerva mentioned that you wished to speak with me, Sirius, but I had a feeling that Miss Blair would be accompanying you. I've been waiting for some months. Ever since Christmas, in fact."

He turns to look at Vivian and calmly takes a sip of tea, as if he's waiting for her to say something. All she can do, though, is raise her eyebrows in surprise and croak, "…Godric's Hollow…you said that on purpose." Then, frowning, she looks up at him and asks, "Did you know what would happen?"

Sirius seems a bit confused with the mention of his surrogate home, but Dumbledore merely hums, "Alas, I was not blessed with divinatory powers. I merely hoped it might prompt you to befriend those who might help you find your way. I've known about your situation for some time now."

Vivian is shocked, and understandably so.

"You've known? For how long?" she asks, feeling faint and breathless. Her teacup rattles in its saucer and Sirius reaches over to take it before she spills it all over herself. She hardly even realizes it's gone until Sirius replaces it with his hand, wrapping his fingers around hers with a firm and comforting confidence.

Dumbledore watches the scene silently. When he does speak, he doesn't answer Vivian's question directly. Instead, he says, "There are very few things that happen within the walls of Hogwarts that I am not aware of, my dear." His eyes flash with that aggravating knowledge and Vivian finds herself blushing slightly when he glances at her and Sirius's entwined fingers.

Vivian swallows and, because she hardly believes that Dumbledore already knows everything and hasn't done something about it, demands, "So you know about the task I've been given? And – Adrian and Lucius and the others being Death Eaters?"

Sirius grips her hand a bit harder at this, which makes her wonder for a moment if he knew that they have already joined the Dark Lord or if it was still just speculation. She doesn't have time to consider it too much though, before Dumbledore is calmly responding, "I've known of their allegiances since before they were Marked. I had hoped they might…reconsider, before they leave these halls."

Vivian finds herself snorting at this. "That's a bit optimistic, isn't it?" she wonders, a bit snidely.

Dumbledore smiles sadly. "Perhaps." He looks like he wants to say more, but seems to decide against it and trails off.

Vivian takes advantage of the silence to ask, "So if you've known about my task all this time, why didn't you do anything?"

Dumbledore turns to look at her, considering her closely. His eyebrows raise slightly when he responds, "Help is only given to those who ask for it, Miss Blair, and I was hoping you would. It seems, this time, my optimism was in the right place."

She stares at him, still gripping Sirius's hand tightly, and finds that she really has no idea what to say to that.

Beside her, Sirius clears his throat and asks, "Is there anything that can be done, then? Can you help her, Professor?" He ignores the look Vivian sends him and just stares at Dumbledore expectantly.

The Headmaster places his teacup down. "I can assist you after graduation, Miss Blair, but I'm afraid that there is little else I can do for now. You've been smart to keep your head down. I suggest you continue to do so over the next few months. You'll be safe as long as you're in Hogwarts."

This is obviously not the answer Sirius was looking for. He frowns and stands up, impatiently saying, "They're expecting her to complete the task before graduation. There's got to be something else you can do until then."

Vivian, a bit annoyed with his adamance, reaches forward to grab his wrist and tug him back into his seat with a muttered, "Calm down, Sirius."

He shoots her an incredulous look and repeats, "Calm down?" Then, turning back to Dumbledore, he passionately says, "What you're saying is that she'll have to complete her task. Mulciber won't let her get out of it. There's got to be something you can do, Dumbledore – you can't just let this happen in your own school."

Dumbledore raises his eyebrows at Sirius and calmly wonders, "What would you suggest, Mr. Black?"

It seems that Sirius has been waiting for this question, because he has an immediate response. He stands up again, jolting out of his seat and blurting, "Expel them," without any hint of hesitation.

Vivian rubs her forehead, but this time she doesn't try to wrangle him back into his seat. She's known Sirius since they were both toddlers, and, intervening years of hatred aside, is well aware that when he gets into one of his moods, it's near impossible to break him out of it. Dumbledore seems to know this too, for he merely reaches over to pick up his teacup again and takes a serene sip of it, quietly studying Sirius's expression over the rim of the cup as he does.

Sirius is incredibly antsy at the lack of immediate response. If he'd expected Dumbledore to jump up and congratulate him for his ingenuity, he's surely quite disappointed, because this doesn't happen. The Headmaster merely leans back in his chair and muses, "When you've grown to be as old as I have, Mr. Black, you'll come to realize that hasty decisions lead to hasty losses. Expelling Mr. Mulciber would only incite the wrath of his father. It would in no way protect Miss Blair from the backlash that would be sure to come."

Vivian shifts uncomfortably in her chair, eyeing Sirius and watching his reaction. To be honest, she can't claim to be surprised by Dumbledore's verdict. It's exactly what she's been thinking all this time. She's tried to tell Sirius that doing something rash would only spell disaster, but he hadn't wanted to listen. Perhaps he'll listen now that Dumbledore is saying the same thing.

Sirius apparently does see reason, for he falls back into his chair after several tense seconds. He clearly doesn't like the situation, though, because he's quick to grumble, "This isn't solving anything."

Another bolt of warmth shoots through Vivian upon hearing these words, despite her efforts to push it away. It's endearing that he wants to help her so badly. She's not sure why she was so annoyed about it, before.

Dumbledore sighs and, turning to Vivian, says, "No, I suppose it isn't. I can arrange a safe house for you after graduation, if it comes to it, and ensure that you'll be protected should Voldemort decide to go after you, but there's little else I can do until then."

Vivian sends him a wan smile and murmurs, "I understand."

Sirius clenches his jaw stubbornly. "That's all well and good, but what should Vivian do about her task?"

The question has Dumbledore looking at her again, and this time when he speaks, his voice is graver. "And what is your task, Miss Blair?"

Vivian raises an eyebrow and sarcastically scoffs, "Don't you already know, Headmaster?"

He smiles slightly, but it's a bit strained. "I know you have been concocting a spell, but beyond that, your secret has remained your own."

She swallows and nods, feeling a bit chagrined for her brittle tone. "The Dark Lord is interested in Inferi." She glances over at Sirius, who is still mostly in the dark about the spell itself, and shifts uncomfortably as she hesitantly explains, "He wants to give them more control, so that they can act without his direct orders."

This explanation makes sense. Sirius had already suspected that this was what she's been up to. The brief glimpse he'd had of her notes some nights prior fits with her words now, but he doesn't like it any more than he had before. It's a dangerous business, playing with Dark Magic like she's doing. There's no telling what consequences it will have, or what results this experimental spell will reap. A dangerous business indeed.

Dumbledore appears quite calm in the face of this truth. He steeples his fingers together beneath his chin and stares into the fire for several long moments, in which the only sound to be heard is the quiet ticking of the grandfather clock situated against the far wall and the subtle crackling of the flames in the grate.

Finally, he muses, "Fascinating."

Sirius looks baffled. Impatiently, he says, "It's not fascinating, it's creepy. What could Voldemort want with Inferi, anyway? He must be making an army."

Dumbledore hums, and slowly says, "I am as in the dark as you are regarding Voldemort's plans, Sirius. Concerning what you should do about this task, Vivian, I propose that you keep working on it – "

"Unbelievable!" Sirius interrupts, loudly.

Dumbledore ignores him. "You must think of your safety first and foremost. Don't give your housemates reason to question your allegiances." Then, looking at her solemnly above the rim of his spectacles, he says, "And do not leave the grounds of Hogwarts for any reason."

This has Vivian stiffening a bit, for one main reason. "But I'm supposed to meet with someone in Hogsmeade in a few weeks – "

"You didn't tell me that," Sirius hisses, and is once more ignored when Dumbledore speaks over him.

"You must not step outside of the protective borders of the castle, or I can no longer help you," he warns her. She quiets, staring at him, and he leans forward to solemnly add, "Understand this, Miss Blair: Voldemort's followers cannot harm you while you are within Hogwarts. They have no power here."

Vivian worries her bottom lip between her teeth and murmurs, "But Adrian – "

"Mr. Mulciber can attempt to intimidate you into action, but it is ultimately your decision whether you let him succeed or not," he swiftly cuts in, and stands up in a flurry of sapphire blue robes. "Now, I'm afraid I have several other duties to see to before the end of the night. I expect that you'll come to see me if you need anything, Miss Blair. Anything at all."

Vivian stares at him for another long moment before nodding and standing up as well. "Thank you for meeting with me, Professor," she mumbles to him, and looks over at Sirius, who is still sitting and doesn't seem to be pleased with the results of the evening. She rolls her eyes at him and taps his shoulder impatiently. "Let's go, Black."

He purses his lips and frowns, but thankfully doesn't argue. With a heavy sigh, Sirius stands and mutters, "Fine. We have some things to talk about anyway." The look he sends her makes it clear what those things are. Namely and most importantly, her supposed meeting in Hogsmeade, which she had failed to mention prior to tonight and probably wouldn't have at all if Dumbledore hadn't told her not to leave Hogwarts. She purses her lips too but doesn't say anything.

"Ah…actually, I was hoping to speak with you alone, Mr. Black," Dumbledore says as they turn towards the door. "It's about your Uncle Alphard."

This clearly surprises Sirius, who looks over at Dumbledore with raised eyebrows. "Uncle Alphard? What about him? Is he alright?" he wonders, obviously confused.

Vivian studies Sirius's expression, wracking her brain for some memory of this uncle. She comes up blank, though, not recalling any Alphards at any of the pureblood gatherings she's attended over the course of her life. Unfortunately, she doesn't seem to be invited to this particular conversation though, because Dumbledore turns to her and calmly says, "You ought to return to the Slytherin common room, Vivian. I'm afraid this might take some time."

These words seem to worry Sirius, whose brows furrow. He stares at Dumbledore as if he's hoping to procure answers with one glance, but when Dumbledore just quietly waits for Vivian to take her leave, Sirius sighs, "Right. I'll see you tomorrow, Viv. How about we meet in the library after classes, near the Alchemy shelves by the Restricted Section?"

He's so distracted with Dumbledore's cryptic words regarding his uncle that he doesn't even seem to realize that he just called her 'Viv', but she does. She stares at him, clearly taken aback. That aggravating warmth curls through her chest so quickly that there's absolutely no hope of keeping it at bay.

"…Alchemy shelves…okay," Vivian murmurs, her mind still foggy, and turns to leave.

Before she can, though, Sirius snaps out of his daze and reaches out to touch her shoulder, angling himself towards her. His eyes lock with hers, all quiet and warm despite the frustrating results of their meeting, and he murmurs again, "We'll figure this out."

She stares at him as the warmth in her chest turns to fire, and breathes out, "…Right. Tomorrow, then," before taking her leave.

Sirius stares after her until she disappears behind the door, and then shakes away the warmth in his own chest before turning back to Dumbledore, only to find that he's watching him with that curious expression on his face. He feels his neck grow warm at having the Headmaster bear witness to the moment they'd just shared, and clears his throat.

"So…Uncle Alphard?" he prompts, quickly changing the subject.

Dumbledore hums and turns, walking up the steps to his desk and plucking a roll of parchment from its surface. "You were aware, I presume, of his illness?"

Sirius hesitates as a wave of dread pools in his stomach. Uncle Alphard has always been one of the few family members who was on his side, no matter what. He never seemed to find it strange or upsetting that Sirius was sorted into Gryffindor, despite him being a Slytherin himself, and would often bring Sirius little gifts from his many travels even after Sirius had grown out of his younger years. For as long as he can remember, though, his uncle has always suffered from a lingering sickness that would sometimes worsen to such an extent that he would be bedridden for days.

Dumbledore studies Sirius gently and silently hands him the roll of parchment. Based on the Headmaster's forlorn words, he isn't entirely surprised to find that the parchment is in fact a will, but it isn't any easier to take the news. He swallows thickly and, as he skims over the document, murmurs, "…He's dead, then."

Dumbledore doesn't respond, but there isn't really any need to. He wouldn't be giving Sirius his uncle's will if this wasn't the case. After several moments of stillness, Dumbledore quietly tells him, "He's left everything to you."

In the wake of the news of his Uncle Alphard's death and the disconcerting emotions that Sirius feels as a result of it, the words scrawled onto the parchment are blurry at best, and the ones he does decipher makes little sense in his current state, so when Dumbledore says this, Sirius is incredibly taken aback.

"…Everything?" he repeats, snapping his head up to stare at the Headmaster.

Dumbledore nods. "His entire fortune."

Sirius breathes out and, feeling a bit faint, sits down in the chair across from Dumbledore's desk. He should be overjoyed with this news. After all, it means that he won't have to rely on the Potters anymore. He can finally repay them for taking him in and giving him a home. Best of all, he'll be able to support himself after school, which is something that's been the cause of a great many sleepless nights since his disownment. The small inkling of relief quails in the face of his uncle's death, though. Uncle Alphard might not have been the most heartwarming man alive – he did have the Black genes, after all – but he always treated Sirius with far more respect than any of his other family members. In many ways, Sirius had looked up to his uncle and admired him for his adventurous and devil-may-care qualities. Alphard was always a bit of a black sheep and they got along quite well due to this similarity.

He runs a hand through his hair and clutches the will with tight fingers, mind swimming with the contrasting feelings of relief and sadness. In the wake of the meeting with Vivian, this is almost too much to take in.

Dumbledore seems to realize this. He takes a seat behind his desk and patiently gives Sirius a few minutes to process the information. After some time, though, he says, "While informing you of your uncle's passing was my primary reason for asking you to stay behind, it wasn't my only one."

Sirius looks up at him in confusion, only to find that the Headmaster is already watching him over the rim of his spectacles.

"Minerva has told me that both you and Mr. Potter wish to become Aurors after you graduate," Dumbledore begins. He seems to be choosing his words carefully, gauging Sirius's reaction with attentive eyes.

Sirius, mind still reeling, just shrugs, "Yeah, we've both been talking about it for a while now. With everything that's been going on, it seems like the right thing to do."

Dumbledore nods. He pauses, turning his eyes to Fawkes and watching as the Phoenix slumbers peacefully, curled up with his wings sheathing his body. With his eyes still gazing at the brilliant feathers of his friend, he says, "It takes some time to pass the qualifications. Are you quite sure you wish to follow this path?"

Sirius, still confused with this topic, says, "I'm sure."

There must be something in his voice – some adamance or strength of purpose – because Dumbledore nods again and suddenly stands up. Sirius watches as he tucks his hands into the sleeves of his robes, turns to look at him directly, and says, "What I am about to tell you must not be repeated to anyone. Not your friends and most especially not to Miss Blair. Do you swear to keep this to yourself?"

Startled now, Sirius frowns and says, "Professor, I don't – "

"Do you swear, Mr. Black?" he interrupts, eyes grave.

Bewildered, Sirius mumbles, "…I swear."

Dumbledore releases a breath and says, "It is for their own safety, you must understand. Discretion is imperative."

"I don't understand," Sirius truthfully admits.

The Headmaster sends him a slight smile. "Allow me to explain. Over the course of the last year, I have been organizing a group of witches and wizards who are of the mind that Voldemort must be stopped. This group is called the Order of the Phoenix. I would like to extend to you an invitation to join once you graduate."

Sirius stares at him. Though he's still holding his Uncle Alphard's will, his mind is no longer churning with the news of his death. His thoughts now spin for another reason entirely, and the grief he feels fades just so to accommodate his bafflement.

"The members that have thus far joined are scattered around the wizarding world in various positions. Quite a few of them are Aurors, but it would be useful – essential, even – to have more Aurors in our ranks. It will be dangerous and I cannot guarantee your safety if you accept, Sirius, but I can tell you that should our efforts prove to be fruitful, it is only a matter of time before Voldemort is defeated."

Sirius's mind blanks momentarily at the word 'dangerous', until he straightens in his chair, looks Dumbledore in the eye, and says, "When can I sign up?"

The Headmaster looks a bit amused. He chuckles slightly and says, "I expected that you'd be interested."

"But Professor, why can't I tell James and the others? I know they'll want to join too," Sirius says, and then in a more hesitant voice, he adds, "And I'm sure that Vivian would – "

"Miss Blair is in no position to extend her allegiance to us at this moment," Dumbledore gently says. "She has too much on her shoulders. No, for now it would be best to keep her in the dark, for her own good." Before Sirius can argue this point, he swiftly adds, "As for James, Remus, and Peter, I intend on informing them as soon as possible. It would be best for me to speak to them myself, that way I can answer the many questions that Mr. Lupin is sure to have."

At this, Sirius chuckles, clearly imagining Remus's desire to uncover everything about the Order before he makes an educated decision on whether to join it or not. He isn't sure he likes the thought of keeping this from Vivian, especially after how close they've gotten recently, but he can understand Dumbledore's perspective on that, too, and just asks, "And when can Vivian know? Once this business with her task is dealt with, I'm sure she'll want to do something to stop Voldemort."

For a split second, Dumbledore doesn't seem to agree, but the doubtful expression flits away so quickly the Sirius almost believes he had imagined it, and the Headmaster merely says, "We will see where she stands once you have all graduated. For now, she has her own decisions to make."

The gravity of these words makes Sirius frown. "Surely you don't believe that she'd choose Voldemort. The whole point of us coming to speak to you was because she wants to get out of this task."

Dumbledore inclines his head graciously and murmurs, "I do not doubt Miss Blair's intentions, only her ability to stay the course. You of all people understands the pressure of her current position. Breaking free from one's family is not an easy choice, and until she fully decides to remove herself from that life, she cannot be fully trusted."

Again, Sirius looks like he'd like to argue, but Dumbledore just raises a hand and reminds him, "You swore to keep this information to yourself, Sirius, and I intend on holding you to that. I'll speak with Mr. Potter and the others soon, but Vivian is not ready to be given this choice."

Still frowning, Sirius mumbles, "Alright, then. I won't mention anything to her for now, but she'll probably be pissed at me for keeping it from her when she does find out."

The corner of Dumbledore's mouth twitches upwards. "Yes, I'm sure she'll be quite cross, but it's for her own good." After another moment, they both break out into chuckles and Dumbledore raises his hand to gesture at the door of his office. "I've kept you from your friends long enough, I should think. You ought to head back to Gryffindor tower before curfew, or else Filch might faint from the eagerness to give you another months' worth of detentions."

His blue eyes twinkle just so behind his half-moon spectacles, and Sirius snorts out a laugh.

"I wouldn't necessarily mind seeing that," Sirius says, but rises to his feet nonetheless, still holding his uncle's will.

Dumbledore smiles briefly, but it fades when his eyes alight upon the roll of parchment. In a more serious tone, he says, "If you have any questions regarding the contents of your uncle's will, please come see me. In the meantime, I trust that you'll look after Miss Blair." His eyes twinkle again, and Sirius feels his face grow a bit warm at the slightly teasing tone that Dumbledore's voice takes on.

Clearing his throat, Sirius mumbles, "Right. I will. Goodnight, Professor."

"Goodnight, Mr. Black," Dumbledore responds, and Sirius turns to the door and quietly takes his leave, his mind still reeling.

From Vivian's full admission of her task, learning of his uncle's death and subsequent inheritance, and Dumbledore's introduction to the Order, Sirius definitely needs to think everything over.