the_debt_of_time

Sirius's grin widened, and he looked over at James and Mia with great appreciation
before turning his admiration back to Dorea.
"Sirius is the heir to the Noble and Most Ancient House of Black," Walburga said
proudly, though she refused to look at the son she spoke so highly of. The same son she
nearly had struck only minutes ago. "You remember that, don't you, Dorea?"
"My own House? Yes, I'm fairly certain I can recall."
Walburga snorted. "Surprising, considering that you refuse to act accordingly."
"I act as my conscience dictates, and I teach my children to do the same," Dorea
said, affectionately moving to stand behind James and Mia, putting a hand on each of their
shoulders.
"Shame." Walburga glanced down at the children as if Dorea's actions immediately
labelled them as blood-traitors. "I teach my children obedience and tradition."
"You teach bigotry and hatred, and you don't fool me for a second," Dorea said
viciously, looking as though she were a viper ready to strike. Suddenly, envisioning Dorea
Potter as a Slytherin was not so difficult for Mia.
Mia tugged on Dorea's sleeve, eager to get away from Walburga. "Mum, weren't we
supposed to get our wands soon?"
"Yes, well." Dorea let out a shaky exhale. "If you'll excuse me, Walburga, my family
and I have some school shopping to do."
"Sirius is attending Hogwarts this year as well. Certain to make Slytherin
House very proud." Walburga turned her nose in the air and stormed away, clearly eager to
have the last word. Dorea, likewise, turned and walked off in the opposite direction.
Regulus immediately followed after Walburga, but Sirius did not move.
"I heard at the Sorting we have to fight a dragon," he said with a grin, acting as
though nothing had happened.
Mia shook her head. "That's rubbish, Sirius."
"Sirius, come!" Walburga screamed from across the street, but Sirius continued to
ignore her.
James's eyes brightened. "I wonder what kind of dragon it'll be!"
"Jamie, we don't have to fight a dragon," Mia insisted.
Sirius grinned excitedly. "I hope it's a Chinese Fireball!"
"Or a Peruvian Vipermouth!"