With a name destined to get her into trouble, Sapphire Black knew that the only way to live life was by taking risks and never looking back. Her brother, family and friends at her side were all that she needed to make it through the poor handout sh...
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Sapphire Black's body slammed onto the ground with a resounding thud, her dark hair whipping around her face as the wind picked up, and a light groan escaped her lips. Her left arm trembled beneath her, still bearing the marks of the dark magic that had assaulted her earlier, struggling to support her weight.
"Why did you do that?" Sapphire seethed through gritted teeth, pivoting to roll over onto her back, her pulse quickening with frustration.
"I had to. I know you have a hero complex, but you can't save everyone," Alex replied stubbornly, brushing the dirt off his shirt.
His grey eyes mirrored his determination as he stood up, unconsciously scanning their surroundings.
"We had this plan for a reason. I promised Dad that we'd keep each other safe."
Sapphire didn't argue back; instead, she grabbed Alex's hand for support as she pulled herself upright. With a glance, she ensured her wand was firmly in her grasp before surveying the forest around them. This was her sanctuary, a sprawling expanse of trees that had always felt like home, protected by her wards. They weren't impenetrable, but they provided a fragile sense of security, enough for a quick escape. Here, they could breathe a little easier.
"Did Harry get away? Did you see?" Sapphire pressed, anxiety creeping into her voice.
"He did, with Hermione and Ron," Alex assured her, his expression softening.
"Good," she said, relief washing over her like a gentle tide. A part of her knew Alex wouldn't have left if Harry were still in danger; it was the foundation of their plan to protect one another.
"Let's get to Grimmauld," Alex started, but Sapphire cut him off, her voice sharp with urgency.
"We need to check on Andy and Ted," she insisted. "Alex, if they found and breached the wards at the Burrow, they'll be coming after our families next. You know that."
"Shit," Alex cursed, his eyes closing as he mentally calculated their options. "Let's go."
It was risky to abandon the one place where they felt secure, but sitting idle wasn't an option. They had to try, especially when the stakes were so high.
When they appeared on the grass near the house, Sapphire could tell the wards were gone. The skies were horrible and dark, as though trying to tell her something was wrong. The closer she got to the house made the pressure in her chest grow and she began to sprint.
