Remus
A lanky, sandy-haired boy who looked to be in his mid teens sat looking out the window of a small, shabby room flooded with moonlight. His brow was furrowed, bunching up the scars that ran down his face, as though deep in thought as he tapped his foot methodically against the floor. A record spun slowly on a phonograph as a man's voice drifted softly through the air.
You may saaaay I'm a dreamer….
He turned his head to the small cabinet the music was coming from. Slowly, he stood and shuffled over to it, his attention on a small collection of pictures pinned to the wall.
The first was himself with a woman that had the same colored hair and a warm smile. He was in the photo, smiling up at the camera. The pair sat on a bench with their backs to the beach, the sand behind them not wet or dry. The writing underneath read: Mom and I, Bath, 1968. He smiled, thinking about that day. The water was freezing but it was warm and sunny and he spent his time building a sand castle with his father. Then, out of nowhere his mother came pretending to be a monster and smashed it before grabbing Remus and dragging him into the frigid surf.
His gaze moved to the next in line. From the moment forever frozen in time, four boys stood with their arms around each other grinning up at him. On the left was himself, tall, skinny, with kind eyes and a smile that seemed to rejuvenate his tired face. Next to him was an even taller boy with messy black hair, shiny from sweat, wearing muddy, yellow and red striped robes with the number seven emblazoned on the front. His spectacles sat over bright hazel eyes and he beamed as though being young was forever and nothing could touch them. On his right with his arm around the messy haired boy was a boy with long black hair. In the photo he was leaning forward, laughing, his eyes squinted and mouth wide with glee. He was shorter than the other two but not by much. Finally, on the far left was a shorter boy who, though he faced the camera, was looking to the side at the others, smiling. Of the four he was the only slightly chubby one, as though he had not quite grown into his body. His haphazard grin was not as confident as the others. Underneath the photo was more writing that read: Marauders, 1974.
Remembering the events that followed the photo, Remus laughed to himself. Sirius and James had gotten Remus to take his first drink of hard liquor and it was all downhill. He had gone so far as to kiss one of his best friends, Lily Evans, who promptly laughed and slapped him playfully. James, however was not as forgiving. He got Remus so drunk he spent the entire next day with his head in the toilet as his friends laughed at his expense.
Smiling harder than before, he looked at the third photo in the line. In this one, however, the people were moving, interacting with each other as though alive. There he was again, smiling and laughing in a train compartment, the world behind them zooming by in a blur. He was wearing normal clothes but in his lap was a black robe with red trim. Across from him was a red-headed girl of about the same age with glowing green eyes. She too was laughing at something that was to be forever funny. Beneath the scene read: Prefects, 1975.
His smile became ever broader as he watched the pair laughing. They had both been surprised to be nominated the fifth year Gryffindor prefects but all their friends rolled their eyes, expecting it all along. The Marauders used their friend's newfound authority to promote rule breaking with no consequence, causing an understandable amount of stress for Professor McGonagall, the deputy headmistress and transfiguration professor.
Remus' face fell slightly as he thought of Lily. They had been friends since first year and she was the only person other than his three best friends who knew about his lycanthropy. The slight frown came from the way James felt about her.
The poor fool's in love and there's no cure for afflictions of the heart, Remus thought, cringing internally at the unprompted romantic thoughts no real "man" should be having.
He knew they would be good together if they would just get away from each other's throats. They always said opposites attract and no two people were more opposite than James Potter and Lily Evans. He was a natural troublemaker, she was a bit of a teacher's pet. He was extremely popular and knew it while she, though also extremely well loved, preferred to stay out of the spotlight. The only thing they seemed to have in common was magical ability, both of them at the very top of the class.
But Remus knew the truth. They were perfect for each other, no doubt about it. James seemed to know it but Lily was in perpetual denial. Sure, he thought, James has had a few girlfriends here and there but they broke up every time because they both knew he was in love with someone else.
His face falling slightly, he sighed and turned down to a piece of parchment that sat next to the phonograph.
And the wooooorld will live as one….
He picked up the paper as his eyes scanned over the sloppy, crooked writing:
Moony,
I do hope this letter finds you in good health, sir. 'Tis another uneventful holiday here at the Potter household, though that's not from lack of trying. My mother is still trying to get the paint stains out of the living room sofa (more on that later).
Did you get my present? I sent it out Christmas Eve but the family owl is getting positively ancient and I wasn't sure if he would get there in time. If it was on time that's brill, but if not you're going to have to live with it my good man because I know you love that muggle singer and you're always going on about those bugs who apparently can play music (to each his own I suppose).
Your gift was early, as per usual, though I must say: a sweater? Really Moony? Sure, it's practical but i was hoping for a more Witches Gone Wild sort of holiday. But I digress. The quidditch design is rather clever and the name on the back was a plus. Strangely enough it fits perfectly which I can only attribute to your undying love for me.
On a more serious note, I know that the full moon is just before we get back (unfortunate) and we won't be there. Do try not to rip yourself up too badly, it wouldn't do if we were a Marauder short at the New Years Party.
Tell your absolutely wonderful mother that I love her (in the purely platonic sense of course) and your father that I hope he's doing well.
Your's in mischievousness,
Prongs.
Remus smiled as he reread the letter a few times. The wrapping from the gift was in the bin and the record was currently playing. After James spent a week at his house over the summer he could not get enough muggle music and now he was sending Remus copies of songs he already owned. He tried telling James this but, true to form, he listened to none of it.
Remus had, however, completely forgotten about the annual Marauder New Years Party that James threw in his family's mansion. Cursing to himself for his poor memory, Remus began packing a few things for the overnight. Tomorrow was the full moon and he certainly would not want to do it the day after.
As the young werewolf tidied up his things in preparation for the horrible transformation into a flesh-ripping, howling monster, he could not help but smile at the thought of his friends.
Lily
A beautiful, redheaded teenage girl lay on her bed watching a ceiling fan go around and around. Warm sunlight shone through the window, clearly from sunset or sunrise, giving the room an amber glow. Her green eyes spun with the fan as she wiggled her freckled nose out of boredom. She wore a green tank top that matched her eyes and grey sweatpants that did not.
As what turned out to be sunset slowly faded to night she became visibly irritated. Marlene, her best friend, was supposed to floo over to her house an hour ago to help prepare for the Marauder's party. Luckily, her family was not home and her sister could not prod her with aggravating questions. She would have done it herself but, as she was not seventeen and therefore could not use magic away from Hogwarts, she continued to stew on her bed.
Lily grew tired and the combination of warmth and the rhythm of the fan lulled her half asleep. A sharp crack on her window caused her to bolt upright. She snapped her head left only to see a small brown owl sitting with its head cocked on her windowsill.
Huffing she opened the window to allow the small bird inside, away from the frigid night air. He hoo'ed softly and held out his leg which had a letter attached to it. She opened it and read:
Lily,
I am so, SO sorry I'm running late tonight. Dorcas came over with Sirius and we spent the time we needed to get ourselves ready drinking firewhisky and playing spin-the-bottle. I snogged Sirius FOUR times. He's a magnificent kisser by the way.
Anywho, I'll be there as soon as Dorcas is ready and Sirius stops trying to get a peek of her changing.
LOVE YOU,
Marlene
Despite herself, Lily could not help but smile. Marlene was her best friend in the world and she could not hold the antics of Sirius Black and Dorcas Meadowes against her. Sirius was assistant ringleader of the infamous Marauders, the most notorious group of troublemakers Hogwarts had ever seen. Dorcas was his informal second-in-command and his best female friend. Lily had always liked Sirius, though only in small doses. She considered Dorcas a sister which made sense because they had been roommates for five and a half years.
Lily's only gripe with the two of them was their close friendships with James Potter, her self-determined mortal enemy. Since first year the boy had been in love with her. Not only were the feeling not reciprocated in the least, but Lily despised him. He was an insufferable, cocky, pompous jerk and she often wondered to herself what she did to grab his attention so violently.
The last time she had seen him he had asked her out while not only extremely intoxicated but holding up a very drunk, half dressed Dorcas. Somehow he had managed to find his way into the girl's dormitory, which was supposedly impossible, and was dropping her off from a party in the dungeons. Lily had denied him for what felt like the thousandth time then shouted at him to get out and leave Dorcas. He had smirked as he placed Dorcas on her bed then stepped towards Lily.
"Evans when are you going to get it into your head that you're attracted to me? You can't deny love forever," he had said, winking.
Lily had been furious.
"POTTER, GET OUT. GET OUT. DON'T EVER LET ME CATCH YOU IN HERE AGAIN. TEN POINTS FROM GRYFFINDOR FOR BEING A DIRTY, DISGUSTING PERVERT," she had shouted at him, blushing.
"Tsk, tsk," he chided. "Points from your own house? Really Evans? Doing Snivelly a favor?"
Lily turned a shade of deep crimson. It was at this point she grabbed a lamp and launched it at him, the lamp exploding against the wall behind him. His face went from a knowing smirk to an angry scowl.
"Oh did I hit a nerve?" he asked, fuming. "Maybe when you get off your damn high horse you'll see him for what he is and maybe reevaluate who you think I am."
Then he stormed out amid a storm of random object Lily had launched at him as he fled. This event had interrupted a period of relative peace between the two and Lily had finally thought he was going to leave her alone. She thought wrong.
Coming back to reality, Lily sighed and pat the owl before it swept off into the darkness leaving Lily alone once again. She checked her clock. Eight forty-six. Sighing again, Lily made to sit on her comfy bed when she heard banging coming from downstairs. Someone was in the house.
Grabbing a cricket bat from her closet (no idea where it came from) she opened her door as silently as possible. Peering down the poorly lit hallway she saw nothing. Slipping through the door as quickly as possible she crept to the top of the stairs and poked her head around to see into the entrance hall. Nothing. But cursing from the living room gave away the game as she raised the cricket bat higher.
Moving down the stairs, careful to avoid the steps she knew creaked audibly, she reached the bottom of the stairs and tiptoed into the kitchen to see into the living room. Three shadowy figures stood whispering to each other and brushing themselves off. A voice in the back of Lily's head told her it was her friends but these days one could never be sure, especially as a muggleborn.
Creeping further behind cover but keeping an eye on the still cursing figures she made her way to a lamp and clicked the switch, washing the dark room with light.
The three intruders visibly flinched from the light, squinting in her direction. After a few seconds their eyes adjusted to the brightness.
Two girls, dressed to party by the looks of things, stood in her living room which was now covered in soot. Lily recognized Marlene as the taller blonde with perfect skin and blue eyes. Dorcas stood to her left, still squinting into the light painfully. Her brown hair was done up fancily behind her head, her brown eyes barely visible through her long eyelashes.
In between the two stood a well built, long haired boy who wore a grin despite being covered in ash. Apparently this did not affect him and he recovered remarkably fast.
"Evans!" he said, still grinning.
He stepped quickly around the couch as the two girls got their bearings and gave Lily a quick but bone breaking hug.
"Crushing me, hello?" she gasped. Sirius let her go, still smiling and she took a step back. "Hello, Black, how's your holiday?"
Sirius eyes flashed mischievously. "Better now, Red, beautiful as ever." He winked.
Blushing, Lily looked around his broad shoulders as Marlene and Dorcas made their way over.
"Lily! Oh my gosh it's so good to see you," Marlene squealed, throwing her arms around Lily, who stumbled from the impact.
Laughing, Lily could smell the liquor on her friend as she returned the hug. "Mar! Good to see you! How's your holiday going?"
Marlene stepped back smiling and started giggling hysterically, covering her mouth with her hand. She tried to open her mouth to speak only to fall into another fit of giggles.
Dorcas rolled her eyes. "She's half gone Lils, good luck getting anything out of her."
Dorcas maneuvered around Marlene and hugged Lily, completing the polite conversation of holiday events.
Sirius watched all of this impatiently. Finally, he stepped forward.
"Listen Red, as much as I'd love to hear more about the wonderful snowglobe your boyfriend sent you for Christmas we're running short on time," he said smirking. "So you and the girls run along and do your thing while I take a look around. See if i can find your mother's dresser, yeah?"
Lily's eyes narrowed at him as he stood there still smirking at the three of them. Suddenly, the three girls looked at each other and grinned. Sirius frowned in confusion.
"Well ladies," Dorcas began, "we know what this calls for."
Sirius never stood a chance. Laughing, the three girls attacked Sirius with makeup until he was a mess of powder, lipstick, and various other beauty products.
"Okay, OKAY," he sputtered. "You guys go get ready and I'll politely mind my business like a gentleman."
Lily raised an eyebrow at him as he brushed mascara off the collar of his polo. He looked up at her, smiling once again.
"What Evans?" he asked innocently. "Look, I promise I won't burn your house down or anything fun like that while you all get ready."
Lily continued staring at him until he laughed.
"Okay Evans, seriously, go get ready. We're already late and James is gonna throw a fit if we're not properly sloshed at midnight."
Marlene started giggling again and Dorcas rolled her eyes again. Lily, though she did not trust Sirius to keep his cool in a muggle household, was forced to submit. She did want to get "properly sloshed" and see her boyfriend, who would be in attendance (which served her ulterior motive of infuriating Potter).
"Fine," she said, turning and pointing a finger at her friends. "But you have to help me look perfect seeing as I haven't seen my boyfriend in two weeks and there are sure to be plenty of available girls at a Marauder's party."
Marlene suddenly looked deadly serious and Dorcas maintained her calm and collected demeanor.
"Lily you are going to be the most gorgeous girl in the room," Marlene said, deadpan.
Dorcas nodded. "Leave it to us."
The three ran upstairs as Sirius stood smiling after them.
"God, I love women."
The girls spent the next forty minutes laughing and dressing Lily up to the best of their ability, and Lily had to admit, their abilities far outstripped her own. Her makeup was perfect, outlining her high cheekbones and sharp jawline. Her smoky mascara highlighted the bright green of her irises, her eyelashes curling like crests of a wave. Her friends pulled her hair back into an intricate, woven bun.
After a few minutes debate they decided on a cut off, skin tight green dress and shoes. At her own insistence, she carried a small handbag that was magically enhanced to carry much more that it should have (in case of catastrophic failures).
Stepping back, Marlene covered her mouth and Dorcas nodded in approval.
"Lily you look amazing" Marlene squealed, unable to finish her sentence.
"Yeah Lily," Dorcas said, "you look fucking good."
Lily blushed and looked at herself in the mirror. Though she would never say it out loud, she agreed with her friends.
Smiling, she walked forward and took both girls by the elbow.
"Shall we?"
The trio walked downstairs to find Sirius playing with the lights in the living room.
"Red, why does-" he started, turning to the girls and seeing Lily. His eyes widened.
"Good lord, Red, give 'em a chance will you."
Blushing again, Lily playfully slapped him on the arm as he smiled.
"Seriously though, marry me?"
Lily laughed as the three girls attacked him again, messing up his hair and outfit.
"Oi!" he yelled, fixing his long black hair as the girls drew back giggling. "Give me a break will ya?" He straightened up, brushing himself off. He turned to the girls. "We ready?"
The girls looked at each other and nodded, grinning.
Sirius nodded. "Okay then."
He pulled a small bag of powder out of his pocket and moved to the still burning fireplace.
Fiendishly, he took a pinch and threw it into the fire. Immediately it turned a shade of emerald. Sirius stepped into it and, smiling one last time at the girls, gave them a quick finger gun.
"The Potter Mansion!"
James
As far as Marauder's parties went, James was thoroughly impressed at the quality of this New Years. Maybe it was because they were older and were beginning to understand the subtleties of the other sex or maybe it was because Mr. and Mrs. Potter had unfortunately chosen the previous week to restock their liquor cabinet. Maybe it was both. Either way, James could not help but smile as he watched his classmates dancing to a particular catchy muggle song Remus had keyed him onto.
I'm hooked on a feeeeeling…. I'm high on belieeeving….
Holding a bottle of butterbeer, James maneuvered his way between dancing teenagers, occasionally stopping to dance with a particularly cute girl and greet a friend with a quick hug and manly pat on the back. Yeah, things were going well.
As he surveyed the scene from the other side of the room, he was just as pleased. They were killing it tonight. The music was perfect, the lights some seventh years had charmed in the air were glowing, and the alcohol just kept coming. James just couldn't shake the thought of Lily at his house.
Sure, they had hung out before. They had the same group of friends, being in the same house and year. Lost in thought, James sat at the edge of the party looking for someone he could have an enjoyable conversation with.
Suddenly, someone slammed into him from behind, slinging an arm around his neck, spilling his butterbeer. James felt the hair against his cheek and knew instantly who it was.
"Prongsie!" Sirius yelled over the music. "Mate, this party is going to be legendary."
James noticed that though it was well before midnight, Sirius was slurring his words.
He smiled at his friend. "Yeah mate, this is a real banger isn't it?"
Sirius laughed, slapping James on the back and causing him to lurch forward.
"Prongsie, ol' pal this is our best one yet! Sure beats the hell out of the last Halloween party. Alyssa find it in her heart to forgive you?"
James grimaced. At the last Halloween party he had asked a rather cute fifth year Ravenclaw named Alyssa Mahoney to accompany him. After a few too many drinks he ended up snogging another girl who was there with her boyfriend and caused a brawl between the sixth year Gryffindors and the fifth year Ravenclaws. Obviously, the Marauders came out on top but it landed them in a month of detention.
James shook his head. "Nah, that's a burnt bridge if I've ever seen one." Then he smiled, "But there are plenty of birds around tonight so we're sure to find something. You didn't bring a girl did you?"
Sirius drew back in faux disgust. "Me? Tied down? Prongs, you wound me."
James laughed and patted Sirius on the shoulder. "Well get after it mate, gotta find the one for that midnight snog."
Sirius winked, "I've had my eyes on McKinnon. Thoughts?"
James went into fake contemplation. "Well let's see: great body, funny as all hell, cute face. What's the catch?"
Sirius smiled knowingly at his best friend. "Right you are my friend, right you are! Well I'm off then. Any parting words?"
James thought for a moment. "Nope. Fair winds and following seas, my good man."
Sirius laughed and clapped James on the shoulder before moving through the party towards Marlene McKinnon, who was standing next to the punch table. James watched him go, but as he did the crowd split to reveal Lily Evans dancing with her boyfriend, Jon Roberts.
James' stomach lurched at the sight. He scowled, his hazel eyes darkening. The worst part was seeing how happy he was. Deep inside, James didn't hate the guy. He was a good dude, always down for a party or prank. Since they started dating they found themselves hanging out more and James and found himself reluctantly fond of him. Sighing, he took another sip of butterbeer as the song changed. Remus, once again, had proved to be a musical connoisseur.
There's a girl…. In this harbor town… and she works… laying whiskey down, they say Brandy, fetch another round.. She serves them whiskey and wine…..
Humming to the tune, James swayed to the music, stewing as he watch Lily and Jon dancing together. He felt a tap on his shoulder and turned. He smiled.
"Moony!" he said, bringing the Marauder into a hug. "Enjoying the party?"
Remus smiled, though he looked tired. "Yep. Really enjoying the music. Listened to the record I sent you?"
James laughed. It seemed silly at first, putting a disc and a needle together to make music, but muggles sure knew how to belt 'em.
"Yeah mate, of course. Really killed it with this one."
Remus smiled wider, some of the apparent exhaustion melting away.
"That's good mate, that's good. Given any thought to our discussion?"
That morning, Remus had arrived at the Potters with a plan. He pitched James the idea of leaving Lily alone for a while so, maybe, she could see that he wasn't all bad and maybe they could get along. James was angry at first, saying he wouldn't give up, but Remus was adamant; he wasn't giving up, he was biding his time.
James' smile faded. He turned to look at Lily, who was still dancing, and since she was a muggle, singing the words. Jon was dancing too, but coming from a wizarding family, was lost on the lyrics. Still, he wore a silly drunken smile as he watched her.
James sighed. "Yeah mate, I think it's for the best, you know? Just make nice and try to move on. Only thing I can do at this point, right?'
Remus nodded. "Listen, James-"
"Prongs," James corrected over the music.
Remus rolled his eyes. "Listen, Prongs, she's happy. That's what you want isn't it?"
James was silent for a moment. Yeah, he wanted her happy. But he wanted to make her happy.
He nodded. "Yeah, I suppose it's for the best. I should talk to her though, right?"
"Yeah," Remus agreed, "It's okay to let her know how you feel, but don't make it seem as though you're trying to sabotage anything, she'll just resent you. Just let her know you won't be trying anything."
James nodded and looked over again. The couple had moved off the dance floor and were talking and laughing. His stomach lurched. Shaking his head, he turned back to his friend.
"I'll go say something."
Remus smiled sadly, "I'll come with you, yeah? Distract Jon."
James nodded. Taking another drink, he led Remus through the crowd to Lily.
As they drew closer she turned and saw him, her eyes narrowing. His stomach lurched for a third time. The malice in her eyes was clear and it tore him apart, but he kept walking. Jon turned to see what she was looking at and, seeing James and Remus, smiled.
"Gentlemen!" he shouted, "Gentlemen, I have to congratulate you. This is one hell of a party."
Remus smiled. "Thanks mate. But I really had nothing to do with it. Sirius and James here did all the footwork. I'm just swimming in their wake."
Jon laughed. "Either way, good job boys. I was just telling Lily that the music is great. What song is this?"
Remus looked at James who had been looking anywhere but Lily, who was still staring daggers at him. Remus nudged him.
James started. "Oh- sorry mate, what was that?"
"What song is this, it's fantastic!"
James looked at Lily, knowing she knew exactly what song it was, but the look in her eyes made him turn away again.
He looked back at Jon. "It's called Brandy. It's by some Yankee muggle band."
Jon nodded. "Either way is awesome. What do you think Lils?"
Lily broke off her stare and turned to Jon.
"It's brilliant but kind of old," she said. "'72 I think."
Jon looked startled. "Really? '72? Never woulda thought. Who picked the music?"
Jumping at the opportunity, Remus moved forward. "I did. Yeah, I sent James here a mix and he's been pawning it off as his own for a while."
Jon laughed. "Leave it to Potter, eh?"
James knew he was just playing around but could not help but feel insulted. Who was he to decide what kind of person James was. He made a fist and opened his mouth to retort but Remus was too quick.
"Yeah, mate. I can make a list really quick for you if you're interested."
Jon jumped at the offer. "Seriously?" He turned to Lily. "Lils I'll be right back, I just need to get some more of this," he said, gesturing violently to the air around him.
He kissed Lily on the cheek and followed Remus into the drawing room where they could find a quill and parchment, leaving James and Lily alone.
The music played while the two stood in silence, neither making eye contact with the other.
Finally, Lily spoke. "So Potter, do you need something or are you just standing here hoping I'll finally dance with you?"
Hurt by her words, James looked at her. His breath caught in his throat. She usually looked good but tonight she looked… good. He stared in silence for a few moments, eyes wide, before she huffed and looked around for Jon.
Coming to his senses James spoke.
"Listen, Lily, I just needed to tell you something," he said over the music, leaning in so she could hear him.
Lily turned back to him with a fire in her eyes. Clearly she expected some underhanded move from the Marauder and was having none of it.
"Oh really? What did you get Remus to go along with some sort of plan to distract my boyfriend while you moved in? I have to say, I expected better from him."
James drew back, clearly hurt. Judging by the softening of her face he realized she felt guilty.
"Potter…," she started.
James cut her off. "Look, Evans, I know that in the past I've been rather… aggressive in my attempts to ask you out or get on your good side."
Lily opened her mouth to say something but James held up his hand.
"Look, just let me finish," he said. "I just wanted to let you know that… that I'm gonna leave you alone. I don't want to ruin your life or anything and this situation just makes it weird for all of us."
Lily was stunned, her former defensive stance thrown off by his words. He stood there staring, practically watching the gears turning in her head. His stomach turned and he hoped she wasn't thinking about the last time they met.
"So that's it?" she finally asked. "Years of you pestering me and attacking my friends and you're over it?"
James shrugged. "A man's gotta move on and grow up at some point right?"
Lily was silent. James stood there awkwardly as he waited for a response. After a while, she nodded.
"Look, Potter, I truly do appreciate that you like me, really," she said as he made a face of obvious doubt. "But I just don't feel like that about you. I never have and I don't think I ever will."
James smiled sadly. "Yeah I realized that. And you don't have to humor me, I just wanted to tell you that I'm done with the whole obsession thing." He shrugged. "Clearly you're happy with Jon and I don't want to do something to ruin that."
Lily was silent again.
James cleared his throat. "So, uh… truce?"
Lily raised an eyebrow. "Truce?"
James smiled but it did not reach his eyes. "Yeah, truce. No more yelling, fighting, asking you out. Nothing like that. We don't have to be friends, but for the sake of everyone, truce."
Lily thought for a moment. James looked at her. Damn she looked good. His heart sank and he didn't know what to feel as she held out her hand to him.
"Truce," she said.
Nodding, James took her hand and they shook. They locked eyes for a moment then both let go awkwardly. Neither knew what to say next. Suddenly the music was cut off and Sirius stood up on a desk, swaying in his drunken state. He tapped his wand to his throat.
"Laaaaaaaadiiiiiieeeees and Gentlemeeeeeeeeen," his magically amplified voice echoed through the house. "This is one hell of a party I must say." The crowd whooped and cheered. "But I think it's time to slow thing down for a song and let the love flow, whad'ya say?" They cheered again and Sirius' grin grew. "So without further ado, go ahead and pair up for this next song that Moony assures me is great for couples." He went to move his wand away then drew it back quickly. "Disclaimer, I have not heard it so if it's bad you know who to blame."
The crowd laughed and cheered as he stepped down from the desk, wobbling, and changed the song. Some spritely piano notes began and the dancers paired up on the floor and began moving.
If you eveeeeeeeer, chaaaaaaaange your miiiiiiiind. About leaaaaavin, leeeavin meeeee behiiiiiind. Baaaaabyyyy bring it to me, bring yooooour sweeeeet lovin', bring it on home to meeeeee…..
James looked at Lily who was looking at the ceiling. Suddenly, Jon reappeared with Remus.
"Thanks a ton Remus, you're the man, "Jon said, wrapping an arm around Lily who leaned into him. James' stomach sank.
"Anytime my friend, anytime," he replied. He turned to Lily. "Lily! It's good to see you, I should've said something earlier."
Lily, glad for the excuse to break the tension, smiled at him.
"Remus, it's wonderful to see you. Have a good holiday?"
He shrugged. "Can't complain really. Nothing fantastic, nothing bad,"
Lily laughed. "No, really can't."
"You look amazing tonight by the way," he said, turning to Jon and winking. "Got yourself a good one here mate, hold on tight."
Jon laughed. "Oh I will. You just stay back Lupin." He jokingly held up a fist at Remus, causing James to boil again.
"Hey no promises," Remus said, holding his hands up defensively.
Jon laughed and patted Remus on the shoulder. "Listen boys, thanks for the invite but I'm gonna go dance with my girl. You guys have a good night, yeah?"
Remus nodded and nudged James, who was staring at the ground. Jon looked at him expectantly.
James jerked his chin. "Yeah, cheers mate."
Jon smiled and steered Lily to the dance floor. James could not help but notice her eyes lingered on him for just a second as they moved away.
He felt Remus' hand on his shoulder. "Well?" he asked. "How'd it go?"
James shrugged. "I told her. Not sure if we're friends or not but we agreed to stop screaming at each other."
Remus nodded. "That's better than nothing mate. Give it time, I'm sure she'll come around."
James shrugged again. "I just want to get drunk."
"Now that's the smartest thing you've said all night Prongsie," Sirius said, appearing out of nowhere and forcing a bottle of firewhiskey into James' hands. "Drink up my friend."
James sighed as he lifted the bottle to his lips and took a large gulp. Remus' eyes widened as he looked on but he said nothing. James brought the bottle down to catch his breath then kept drinking. Sirius' grin grew wider as James finished and wiped his mouth.
"Let's get amongst it mate!" Sirius said, steering James towards a group of girls.
Oh dear lord, what have I done, James thought as he started dancing with some fifth year girl he didn't recognize.
Marlene
"Wait, so tell me again exactly what he said."
Lily rolled her eyes. "Mar, for the hundredth time, he said he wanted a truce. He said he just wants to stop fighting and maybe be friends."
Marlene frowned and sat back against the padded seat in the compartment. Outside, the British countryside flew past them in a green blur. She sat across from Lily who turned to stare out the window. To her left sat Dorcas who was listening in while playing with her newly painted fingernails. Across from Marlene was Alice Prewett, one of their sixth year Gryffindor roommates who was dating the ever awkward Frank Longbottom.
Marlene leaned forward again. "Lils it just doesn't make sense. He's been in love with you for almost six years and now, James Potter, the James Potter, is quitting?"
Lily snorted. "Don't call him 'the' anything, he's just a cocky jerk. And, I agree it is rather unlike him to act his age but maybe he's actually changed for the better."
Dorcas huffed and Lily turned.
"What?" Lily demanded.
Dorcas looked up from her hand. "You really think James Potter changed? No chance. He's just playing the long game, that's all. Probably sneaking in the grass to get you when you least expect it."
Lily frowned. "He seemed genuine, I don't know." She turned to Alice. "Ally, what do you think?"
Alice started. "Oh, um… I dunno, it is rather unlike him to behave like that but," she shrugged, "maybe he was serious. I say you give him the benefit of the doubt."
Marlene sat back again. "Lily all I'm saying is that it's not like a Marauder, especially James, to do anything like this. Look," she said shrugging, " I personally like the guy, but I wouldn't get your expectations up."
Marlene was truly at a loss. James Potter? The infamous James Potter was trying to be a considerate human being? She never disliked James, though she did agree he could be a bit of an ass sometimes. But usually he was fun to be around, albeit at others expense, occasionally crossing the line. But it was all in good fun, unless it had something to do with the Slytherins, but Marlene was on his side about them. Now they were stuck up assholes.
Dorcas smirked and turned to Marlene. "I'm not sure why we're so caught up about Lily and James when our dear friend Marlene was seen kissing a Marauder at the New Years party."
Marlene flushed red. At midnight on New Years she had kissed Sirius Black. Though it had not stopped there. Eventually her friends had to pull her away from the boy so they could leave around three in the morning. Sirius had just winked and told her he'd see her around. The thought made her blush some more.
Lily laughed as Alice turned quickly, mouth open in surprise.
"A Marauder? Who?"
Lily looked at Marlene who was still red. "Sirius Black."
Alice looked shocked. "Sirius Black?" she stammered. "Like 'I'm so beautiful, look at my luscious locks' Sirius Black?"
Marlene looked down in between her feet. "Yes," she mumbled, smiling to herself.
Alice leaned back. Dorcas smirked and Lily smiled in sympathy.
"Well if it's any consolation, you could have done worse. Pettigrew had his hand up the skirt of some fourth year," Dorcas shrugged.
Lily slapped Dorcas on the thigh laughing. "Stop," she said, "Peter's nice, don't be mean."
Dorcas held her hands up defensively. "I'm not trying to be mean, I'm just saying he's not that good looking. Black, on the other hand, has got to be one of the best looking blokes in our year. Though, yes, he can be a bit of a git sometimes"
Marlene kept staring at the ground. Dorcas did have a point, Sirius was rather good looking and could be a bit of a git sometimes. But it suited him. And he was a fantastic kisser at that. He was funny, sometimes sweet, and seemed fond of Marlene. What wasn't there to like?
Lily put her hand on Marlene's knee. "I wouldn't worry about it, it's not like you actually like him, like him."
Marlene flushed again and slowly looked up at Lily, whose mouth opened as her eyes widened in surprise.
"Oh no," Lily said, removing her hand from Marlene's knee and leaning back against the bench, her hands on her forehead.
Dorcas laughed and punched the air as ehs jumped up. "HAHAHAHA YES, I KNEW IT," she shouted, "MARLENE MCKINNON FANCIES SIRIUS BLACK."
Dorcas danced around as Lily gave Marlene a look of sympathy. Marlene just sat and smiled awkwardly.
Did she like Sirius? She was certainly good friends with him and had been for years. He had everything she looked for in a guy. Oh God, she thought, I fancy Sirius Black.
As Dorcas danced around the compartment there was suddenly yelling outside. There was a loud bang and a thud and the yelling stopped, followed by murmuring from unknown sources.
Lily jumped to her feet and opened the door to find, speak of the devil(s), Sirius Black and James Potter, both with their wands drawn and pointed at the writhing figure of Marcus Avery, a sixth year Slytherin.
Marlene rushed to Lily's side, her eyes immediately jumping to Sirius' face. He was intensely focused, a look of rage on his face. Had the situation not been so dire, she would have found him quite handsome.
"What is going on out here?" Lily demanded, equally as furious as either Marauder.
James turned to Lily, furious. "What's going on? This git was trying to sneak up here and, presumably, do something horrible. So myself and Padfoot here stepped in. Uhm, you're welcome?"
Lily and Marlene stood in stunned silence as Dorcas and Alice poked their heads between the former's shoulders to see into the hallway. Noticing Sirius, Dorcas elbowed Marlene in the ribs. For what seemed like the fiftieth time in five minutes, she blushed.
Lily hesitated before saying anything then spoke. "But did he do anything besides being sorted into Slytherin?"
James snorted. "Not yet."
Avery seemed to be recovering and Sirius stepped forward snarling. Before he could act, Lily came out of her stasis and grabbed his wrist.
"NO SIRIUS," she shouted. "If you attack a defenseless target what does that make you?"
Sirius ripped his wand hand free and turned on her. Marlene drew back from the fire in his eyes.
"Are you serious Evans?" he spat. "This slimy ball of filth was sneaking over here to attack you. Who knows what kind of damage he could have done? You were minding your own business and he went out of his way to try and hurt you." He turned back to Avery who was getting to his feet, scowling. "This scum would have done it too if we hadn't been here."
Lily gulped and composed herself. Marlene could not help but admire her friend at a time like this.
"Sirius, I understand, I really do. But we're fine. He didn't even do anything. Whatever it may have been it's over. Let it be. Go back to your own compartment and try to stay calm."
Sirius turned back to her, opening his mouth to say something but was cut off.
"Shut your mouth you little mudblood. You're not fine. You'll never be fine," Avery hissed. "Your little friends were here to save you this time, but one day they won't be around and we will." He smirked. "Now wouldn't that be unfortunate."
He turned to leave but before he could James lunged forward, casting a silent spell, and Avery shot like a bullet down the corridor. He got up quickly, clutching his shoulder, and ran down the train.
Marlene was shocked. What was happening? What was wrong with these people? What had they done to deserve this hatred? She knew the answer but to her it made no sense. She looked at James, a pureblood, and saw the animalistic fury in his face. How had this divide come to exist?
Lily turned to James and Sirius who were both staring at the fleeing form of Avery with murderous intent. Dorcas slipped between them and threw her arms around their shoulders.
"Well aren't you two just a couple knights in shining armor?" She smiled. "Thanks for the save boys."
James grunted and looked at the girls while Sirius kept looking down the hallway even though Avery was long gone. Marlene looked at him, a puzzled look on her face as her stomach did somersaults. Had she always felt like this? No, she was certain she hadn't. Then when did it start? The party? Sometime last term? She had no clue, but she was sure of one thing: she did fancy Sirius Black.
Silence hung in the air as Sirius turned and immediately locked eyes with Marlene.
"Hey McKinnon," he said, still focusing on what had happened.
She stood still for a moment before realizing they were all looking at her.
"Erm, hi Sirius," she nearly squeaked. "Um, thanks."
He shrugged. "No problem," he said. Then he smiled. "Just getting the hexing out of the system so McGonagall can't give us detentions."
Dorcas and Alice laughed and even Lily gave a quick smile. James stood behind his smiling friend looking grim. Dorcas patted him on the cheek.
"Don't look so glum, chum," she said merrily. "All in a day's work for the Marauders, right?"
James looked at her and shrugged. Sheathing his wand he turned and stalked back to the compartment the boys were sitting in. They all watched him go.
"Wonder what his problem is," Alice said, looking after him.
Sirius shrugged. "Probably just these so-called 'Death Eaters.' Just a bunch of young fanatics if you ask most people," he looked down the train. "I'm not so sure." He turned back and smiled at the girls. "Don't sweat it. I'll go talk to Prongsie, he'll be fine."
Marlene's eyes had not left Sirius during the entire conversation. She stared at his long hair, how it brushed his shoulders as he flipped it out of his face. His brown yet handsome eyes flitting between the girls. His smile lit up his entire face, something she had not noticed before this exact moment.
Oh god, she thought for the second time that day, I fancy Sirius Black.
Suddenly he turned to her, still smiling. "Anyway I'll be heading back now. Looking fit McKinnon." He winked as he turned and walked away.
The other girls turned back to their own compartment, talking in low voices about what had just happened, but Marlene stared at the back of his head as he strode away. Just before he slid into his cabin he turned and shot Marlene a smile. Then he disappeared and Marlene heard the laughter of the Marauders.
Her heart was racing. She had never felt this way about a boy. Yeah, she had snogged a few and even gone on a few real dates, or at least they had seemed real at the time. But this was something different. There was some beast sleeping inside her that had woken up and was demanding that she be near him, talk to him, kiss him.
An eternity seemed to pass as she stared at the spot he had just been standing. She felt a tugging at her shirt and turned, startled, to see Dorcas smiling and pulling at her.
Dorcas was grinning. "Oh dear, she has got it bad, hasn't she."
Alice slapped Dorcas' hand. "Oh leave her alone Dorcas, you're just jealous that Sirius is into someone that isn't you."
Dorcas' eyes narrowed. "What is that supposed to mean."
Alice rolled her eyes. "Dorcas please don't try to convince us that your relationship with Mr. Black is purely platonic."
Dorcas scowled as Marlene shuffled across the compartment and sat down staring at the floow again. She was vaguely aware of Alice and Dorcas arguing as Lily tried to calm them down. But Marlene wasn't listening.
Dorcas was right. She did have it bad. Really bad. And she had to do something about it. She decided to talk to Lily about it. Of course Lily would know what to do.
Marlene looked up to say something but was shocked to find Alice and Dorcas rolling around on the floor play fighting as Lily spectated, laughing. Marlene smiled. This could wait. She sat back and enjoyed the company of her friends as the Hogwarts Express chugged along towards home.