the_debt_of_time

"I understand the subject is of a sensitive and personal nature," Professor
McGonagall said quietly, not looking the least bit threatened by the outburst. "But I would
request that you lower your tone in my office, young man. Miss Potter, do you have reason
to believe that Regulus Black is at fault?"
"Regulus is.. ." Mia began, but the words caught in her throat as she tried to focus
her efforts on speaking. Regulus is a Death Eater. Regulus is a Death Eater. Regulus Black will
betray the Dark Lord. "I... I believe Sirius," she managed to say clearly.
"Very well." the professor sighed, looking both concerned and burdened by the
information. Mia wondered what, if anything, Dumbledore had been telling her about
potential Death Eaters in the school. "I will report this to Professor Dumbledore and
Professor Slughorn. Should young Mr Black display suspicious behaviour, it will be dealt
with. In the meantime, I'd suggest you both see yourselves out. If you'd be accommodating,
check in on Miss Evans for me."
Mia moved to leave, nodding gratefully to her professor, but Sirius did not seem
ready to budge.
"What's going to happen to Regulus?"
"Should something be discovered because of the information you've provided, it
will be handled. But not by you," Professor McGonagall insisted. "Your responsibility is to
be a student, focus on your work, and—for the love of Godric—try to stay out of trouble.
Leave the war to the adults."
"I'm of age," Sirius pointed out.
"That is neither here nor there, Mr Black."
"I want to fight," he added, and Mia growled at the words.
Professor McGonagall narrowed her eyes and scoffed at him. "Do I appear to have
a signup sheet recruiting soldiers?"
Mia took hold of Sirius's hand and tugged. "Thank you, Professor. We'll see
ourselves out."
"Oh, Mr Black? Miss Potter?" the professor called as the two opened the door to
leave.
They each turned back curiously, watching as the corners of her mouth turned up
ever so slightly.