"Rumors and Shadows"

Sirius Black strolled through the dimly lit corridors of Hogwarts, his long strides eating up the distance as he made his way to the Gryffindor common room. The usual chatter and laughter of the students filled the air, but Sirius's attention was caught by a hushed conversation between two fifth-year students. They glanced at him nervously, quickly dispersing as he approached. Sirius raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. What were they talking about? As he entered the common room, he spotted his best friend, James Potter, sprawled on a couch, reading a Quidditch magazine. Sirius plopped down beside him, nudging him with his elbow. "What's up, mate?" James asked, not looking up. "Not much," Sirius replied, scanning the room. "Just overheard some weird conversation. You hear anything interesting?" James's eyes flicked up, a mischievous glint in them. "Actually, I did. There's a rumor going around that some of the older Slytherin boys have been...indiscreet with Regulus." Sirius's expression darkened, his eyes narrowing. Regulus, his younger brother, was only 15, and Sirius had always kept a watchful eye on him. The thought of those Slytherins taking advantage of Regulus made his blood boil. "Who?" Sirius demanded, his voice low and menacing. James hesitated, glancing around the room before leaning in closer. "I don't know, but I heard it was some of the older ones – Crabbe, Goyle, and a few others. They're supposed to be having some sort of...affair with him." Sirius's face twisted in disgust. He couldn't believe that anyone would stoop so low as to take advantage of his little brother. Regulus was kind, gentle, and trusting – not exactly the kind of person who could defend himself against predatory older students. As the night wore on, Sirius found it difficult to focus on his studies. His mind kept wandering back to the rumor, and he couldn't shake the feeling of unease that had settled in his stomach. He knew he had to do something, but he wasn't sure what. As he lay in bed that night, Sirius's thoughts turned to Regulus, and he made a silent vow to get to the bottom of the rumor. He would find out if it was true, and if so, he would make sure those responsible paid. The darkness of the dormitory seemed to press in around him, and for the first time in his life, Sirius felt a sense of vulnerability. He was usually the one who protected Regulus, but now he wondered if he had failed his little brother. As he drifted off to sleep, Sirius's mind was racing with questions and fears, and he knew that tomorrow would bring a confrontation that would change everything.