Chapter 1: An unexpected turn of events.
Margaret and Theodore were talking silently in the kitchen. They didn't want Remus to hear just yet. But of course he would have to find out soon enough. Everyone else would be able to go to Hogwarts but he wouldn't. And then there was the problem that people would sooner or later know. They could always say that he had a poor health and thus could not attend school, that they would home tutor him, but that could work up until one point. And when people would find out, that would most certainly destroy any chances he had for a normal life.
The new headmaster of Hogwarts, Albus Dumbledore had requested a meeting with them. To tell them that apparently their son cannot be admitted to the school. Many people were very disappointed to learn that he would be Hogwarts' new headmaster. They wanted him to become the Minister for Magic and they believed he could do so. Others thought he was not strict enough, or that he was crazy enough to be head of their children's education.
The appointment was set for five o'clock. It was past ten.
-Let's move to the living room; he should be coming any minute now; Theodore suggested
His wife followed him silently
-Theo, why do you think he wants a meeting, Margaret asked
-Maggie, it does not happen every day that a student refuses to attend. I am sure the man is curious.
-But do you think we can tell him?
-I really don't know, we will have to wait and see.
The clock ticked 5 and surely enough the bell rang.
-He is punctual, I give him that much, Theodore joked.
-Good evening, Mr Lupin, Mrs Lupin, said Dumbledore.
He was a tall man, with white long hair and beard. He looked very old but also very wise. He was watching them under his glasses with a smile warm enough to touch his eyes.
-Professor, come on in, Maggie said. May I offer you something? Some tea maybe?
-Tea would be great, thank you, Mrs Lupin.
They sat in silence until the tea and cookies arrived.
-So Mr and Mrs Lupin
-Please, Theodore and Margaret
-Theodore and Margaret, I requested to see you for the matter of your son. It is my understanding that you do not wish to send him to Hogwarts. May I ask why is this?
-Professor, Remus is a young boy with very poor health and we are afraid that if we sent him to school his condition might deteriorate.
-But surely, this is not reason enough to keep a young wizard away from school. I am sure Madam Pomfrey can see to it. Are you sure there is not another reason. I would like to dissolve any hesitation you might have. It is petty indeed for a wizard not to be able to practice his magic. May we ask your son what he thinks?
-Professor, I think not, Theodore said. You see we do not want to give him hope when there is none.
-But why, on earth would you say that? There is always hope, Theodore. If only you are willing to embrace it.
-Professor, began Margaret with tears in her eyes.
-Margaret don't! Theodore interrupted. He hesitated for a while and then continued from the point where his wife was interrupted. Our son is a werewolf.
-I see, Dumbledore responded. But why on earth would that be a problem that should keep young Remus away from school?
-But Professor, he, he, he
-He has a condition, Theodore. Once a month. There is no reason why he should not attend school the rest of the time. Of course, we have to take measures to ensure his and his classmates' safety during the full moon, but other than that I do not see any problem. If you exclude your son from ordinary activities, he will later exclude himself from society and become what people think of werewolves. But let's ask him. See if he wants to come, otherwise anything we say or do not say is in vain.
-Of course, Margaret said startled. I'll go call him
Remus was waiting anxiously in his room. Why would the Headmaster want a word with his parents? He already knew he could not go to school, so what was the problem?
-Remus dear, could you come down here for a moment.
Remus climbed down the stairs and entered the living room. His mother put her arms around him.
-Hello Remus. I am Professor Dumbledore.
-Hi, Remus said with a weak voice.
-As I've already told your parents, I do not see a reason why your condition should prevent you from coming to school. If of course that is what you wish.
Remus was shocked. He did not know what to respond.
-Remus, dear?
-Me? Go to Hogwarts?
-Yes, honey. Do you want to? his mother asked.
-But what about...?
-I will see that security measures are installed. Dumbledore responded.
-I cannot believe that! Remus said.
-I take it you want to join us then. This is marvellous. My job here is done. I believe you have all the instructions in the letter. And I will see you Remus, on September 1st. Thank you very much for the tea and cookies, Margaret.
-Thank you , sir! all of them said at once.
Dumbledore left and the three Lupins were left staring at each other.
-So, Theodore broke the silence. I believe a trip to the Diagon Alley is in order.