Chapter 3 of Changes on the Mountain. Hope you enjoy!
The two young men set off and arrived at the mountain before nightfall.
"So this is where you spend your summer vacations?" Sirius asked, staring up at the rugged rocks, dangerous cliffs and scrawny trees, "Charming place!"
"Hey, it's the nearest place that I can get to where absolutely no people go, Muggles or not. I am not going to be responsible for someone else to lead this life. Come on, we have to set up camp before moonrise."
"And where exactly is camp?" Sirius puffed half an hour later.
"Just over this ridge," Remus panted.
"Why do we have to go so high up? For the view?"
"Ha ha. Up here there is a cave and it's the only one I can find. And it's not that far!"
Eventually they reached their destination and unpacked.
"Hey Moony?" Sirius' voice was low and serious, "What are all these scratch marks on the walls? Are they done by you?"
Remus looked away. "Huh, who or what else could it be?"
"Is transforming really that painful?"
"You have no idea.
Suddenly Sirius walked over and hugged his friend. Remus, surprised, hugged his back and then let go. "What was that for?" he laughed.
"It's just… you never told us."
"You never asked… Look, don't worry about me. I've lasted this long haven't I?" joked Remus, trying to make light the situation. He bent over and continued to unpack but he could still feel his friend's worried eyes watching him.
They ate a light meal and watched the first few stars appear. Soon it was time. "Hey Sirius, I'll meet you by that little creek we passed earlier OK?"
"You sure you'll be alright?"
"Yeah, yeah. Just go now. Please."
Against his will Sirius loped off, transforming into a large black dog on the way. Suddenly he heard a cry then a howl from behind. He whirled around and saw… his friend, bent over in pain as, slowly, he became less human and more animal. Fur sprouted, limbs grew longer, teeth became sharper and all the while Remus was clawing at himself and the stony cave walls around him in his agony.
Then, it was over. The werewolf stood up and looked around, adjusting to its surroundings. Sirius caught a glimpse of its eyes. They were still human and full of the memory of the pain which had only just subsided.
Only once the werewolf had turned and ran off did Sirius move. He quickly trotted off towards the creek, knowing that Remus wouldn't like him spying. All the while he could only think of one thing. He knew he couldn't let his friend suffer like that alone.
Loved it? Hated it? Please review!
PPS. Just wanted to say thank you to everyone who has review my earlier chapters. Hope you weren't disappointed with this chapter!
PPS. Chapter 4 should be the last chapter so stay tuned!