The room was dark and cold. At least that's what it felt like. The last ounces of happiness had been drained from her body long ago, and she felt dirty and empty with only her worst memories to comfort her. They were the only things left that were real. Everything that she had known and loved was gone, taken from her in her sleep. Her screams pierced the night, if it even was night. She couldn't tell everything was too dark.
The Potter's spent most of the car ride in silence with the occasionally small talk between Lily and James. The journey to Black Manor wasn't a long one due to the fact that the car they were using was magically enhanced. James's mind was filled with questions that needed answering. But he had no idea whether or not the person who had the answers was fit enough to be subjected to the questions. As they drove up the sloping hill to the Manor house they saw Sirius Black running out to meet them, worry etched into every one of his features.
"Oh no," said James, knowing exactly why his friend looked the way he did. "I forgot to tell Christiana not to tell Sirius."
James and Lily climbed out the car, Ebony behind them. Sirius, who was obviously trying to conceal his anxiety in the presence of Ebony, looked at James who silently nodded. Sirius closed his eyes and took a deep breath before turning to Ebony.
"Everyone's at the Quidditch pitch behind the house, Ebbs. They are no doubt waiting for you so that they can start their game.
"Thanks Uncle Sirius," said Ebony and she ran off to join her siblings and cousins.
The three adults watched her for a while until she disappeared behind the house.
"So," said Sirius slowly, "is it true?"
"Yes," James replied quietly.
Sirius ran his hands through his midnight black hair. It was a nervous habit of his.
"Does Lexi…," James began.
"Shh… no, she doesn't," said Sirius. "She's feeling a bit under the weather today and is lying in bed as of now hopefully sleeping. She had a rough night."
An uncomfortable silence between the friends followed.
"Well," said Lily briskly, "we shouldn't keep Remus and Katie waiting. They have already arrived haven't they Sirius."
"Yes, yes they have. You're right Lil, Shall we?" replied Sirius as he led the walk back up to the manor house.