Chapter One – Werewolves and Wizards

In the Scottish highlands a storm was raging, lashing at the windows of the medieval castle that stood majestically on the hillside. Oblivious to the weather outside, three wizards lounged in their dormitory, occasionally glancing up at the door. One boy sat on the edge of his bed, studiously scribbling in his textbook. Every once in a while he would put it down to consult the large tome next to him. The other two were lying on the floor, one of them eagerly trying to complete a tower of chocolate frog cards, whilst the other stared absentmindedly into space, periodically checking the detailed map spread out on the floorboards in front of him.

The door swung open as Sirius strode into the boys dormitory, whistling.

'About time, Padfoot,' James said, folding the map up as he spoke. 'Where have you been?

'Guess?'

'Which teacher this time?'

'Professor Merrythought. The essay on the properties of monkshood didn't go down too well!'

Remus snapped his book shut and looked at Sirius pointedly.

'Detention, again?' That's the third time this week,' he scolded.

'Some people have reputations to uphold, Moony,' replied Sirius, 'Anyway, you're the one who misses school every month!'

Peter, the fourth boy, peered up over his stack of chocolate frog cards.

'When is the next full moon?' he squeaked.

'Happens every month, work it out,' James responded lazily. 'What are the plans this time?'

'The same as they've been for the last two years,' said Remus.

'I don't know,' said Sirius, 'I think it's about time we caused a bit of trouble.'

'As if Dumbledore doesn't have enough to deal with, he's got a teenage werewolf on his hands!' joked James.

Sirius smirked, 'We could always have some fun with Snivellus.'

'I've been wanting to try out that new hex.' replied James thoughtfully.

'You should leave the poor bloke alone. It's not his fault you don't have a chance with Lily,' Remus hastily intervened, preventing any further planning.

James shrugged wearily. 'Are you going to be doing homework all night, Moony? Or will I actually get some sleep?'

'I'm just finishing up.'

The four boys quietly turned out the lights and were asleep within minutes.