Ok, i know it took me ages to update. But this chapter was really difficult for me. I just couldn't get it were i wanted it.
Anyways, i hope you'll enjoy it. Please please please please review!
Three dark figures were silently standing inside of a small cave. Looking at it with questioning eyes. Touching its walls with fingers and whispering enchantments. The taller man spoke quietly, "Just what I thought..."
"It's expecting something in return to let us in, doesn't it?", the slightly shorter figure answered his voice merely loud enough for the three of them to hear.
"Yes... And knowing Voldemort I believe it merely needs some blood. His immense fear of any physical damage and consistently, death, was always his greatest weakness... Don't you agree, Severus?", Dumbledore asked.
"I think you are right professor, yes...", Severus Snape answered, his face dark. From his experience with Voldemort he didn't want to know what was ahead of them.
"Allow me, Albus." the hoarse voice of Alastor Moody was heard, as he paced past the silver haired wizard and cut his middle finger with a small knife. Then he pressed it against the cave's stone leaving blood at a few spots that Albus indicated. As the rock started to crack open he healed himself with his wand before stepping along with the two others at the space opened ahead of them.
They stood on the edge of a big black lake, the waters of which were still, like glass. Along its left side there was a narrow stone path that faded in the darkness ahead of them. Three wands lightened up silently and the three men started walking cautiously to the path making sure they didn't touch the water. As they walked the entrance faded in darkness as well, while ahead of them the path ended. Dumbledore ducked down to the edge of the stone path and looked closely into the water. Then he tapped his wand to something invisible and seconds later a green chain made its appearance. A chain that was coming out of the dark lake.
"What is that, Albus?", Alastor asked stepping closely.
"I believe it is our means of transport, Alastor.", Albus answered evenly.
"To transport us where?", the man asked again.
"There...", Snape answered instead of Dumbledore pointing towards the center of the lake where a small island stood.
"The question is, what is inside the lake.", Dumbledore whispered.
"Try pulling the chain up and we'll see just when we'll find out...", Snape answered and raised his wand. Dumbledore nodded and slowly started pulling the chain up. Other than the sound of the chain nothing was heard and the lake remained totally still. Soon a little boat emerged, attached at the other end of the chain. "It's too small for all of us.", Snape said.
"I'll go first then.", Albus said and immediately stepped inside it. The journey to the island was quick. In less than two minutes Snape silently summoned it back and stepped inside himself, a little later followed by Moody. Once on the island they found a big marble basin full of a deep green liquid that radiated light. Snape stepped closer to it and examined it, while the two other men waited patiently.
"Powerful poison. Or to be more accurate mix of poisons and potions. Not sure what exactly. I can recognize some of the combinations though. It sure is not an instant killer.", he said quietly and then tried to touch the surface.
As Albus expected Severus' hands never made it to the surface. "It is not to be touched Severus... I am afraid that there is only one way to get whatever it's guarding..."
"We cannot drink this professor.", Snape answered instantly realizing what the older wizard was implying. "I don't know what it is and how much it might take to kill the drinker. I might not have an antidote powerful enough in my storage and I doubt i'll make it to create one in time...", he started to reason with the headmaster, but Albus shook his head.
"Voldemort would have it to take days and days to take effect my dear Severus. He would want for the drinker not only to suffer but also to stay alive until he'd come and learn how he made it as far as this. I know him well enough to tell this. And even if you need to make the antidote now, the ones you already have will certainly help in keeping me alive until you make the new one.", Albus answered.
"Sir, there is absolutely no way you'll drink that thing!", Snape said fear paling his face, "This war is lost without you!"
"No, Severus. This war is far bigger than me and doesn't need me. You on the other hand as well as Alastor are needed. And your lives are of most importance. I won't risk them. I'm an old man. I've lived my days...", Albus tried but before finishing his phrase he noticed Severus paling even more and looking somewhere behind him. Turning around he saw Alastor drinking big gulps from the poison, his eyes closed tightly while tears were flowing down his cheeks. When the last drop of the poison was drank he fell on the ground, while low growls started to escape his tight lips.
Severus instantly ran to him and immediately took out a vial with first aid, yet powerful antidote and poured it in the other man's mouth. "Albus, hurry take the Hocrux and let's go. We have to hurry. He is suffering..."
Albus raised his wand still keeping in his mind that they had yet to face the lake and whatever she hosted, and then he grabbed the medallion that rested in the bottom of the basin. As soon as it left the white marble a low thud was heard from underneath them. Slowly white, half rotten bodies emerged from the surface of the lake and slowly started to approach the three wizards.
"Inferi!", Snape yelled. Then casting a hovering spell on Moody's limp body he guided them to the boat and then instantly he waved his wand once again casting a huge circle of fire that floated around the boat. The inferis could not get to the fire and those that were close to it rushed away. Dumbledore with the medallion clutched in his hand tightly made the same spell. Powerful flames encircled him as he waited for Severus and the floating Moody to get safely to the stone path. Soon enough they all rushed to the exit and as soon as they went out of the entrance the stone of the cave closed and no sounds but their breaths were heard. Severus grabbed Moody tightly and apparated to Hogwarts, while Dumbledore reached in his pocket and took the Hocrux out. As soon as he dropped it to the ground he took out of his robes the sward of Gryffindor. Then in one swift motion he shattered the medallion to pieces, while the scream of the dying soul fragment broke the dead silence. The only sound that followed that was a loud crack of apparition.
…...
It was almost five o' clock in the morning when Sirius Black opened his door as quietly as possible. Tonks jumped up at the sound of the door and realizing that Sirius had returned she exhaled and rubbed her eyes while she mumbled a good-morning to him.
Sirius smiled at her widely. "Thank you so much for tonight Dora. Everything okay here?", he whispered.
"Everything fine... All three of them sleeping. None of them realized you left.", she answered quietly. "But why didn't you just tell them? I mean it was just something for the order right?"
"Shh! Remember I told you it was top secret? They can't know! And neither can Remus. So if he asks tell him you just went to take some air, ok?", Sirius said looking at her seriously.
Dora narrowed her eyes, "I'll keep your secret Sirius Black, but do not think I believed a word you just said! Whatever you're up to, you'd better find a way to do it openly because my dear husband will know that you're hiding something sooner or later!", she said poking him a couple of times on his chest.
"Thank you so much Dora! Good morning!", Sirius said smiling while he escorted her out. He felt kind of guilty for giving himself the time to actually do something for himself, but he couldn't help it. He didn't chose it either. He was looking his own business when one day she came crashing into his life. One of the newest Order members. A beautiful, smart, powerful witch, ready to fight the evil and help the light. Ready to help anyone in need and love even the worst person living on this earth. Things just happened on their own after that. After the training sessions of the newbies they would talk and talk. He'd try to arrange their shifts to various tasks and Order missions to be together. When possible they'd go out for a drink in London where there was slight possibility that someone would learn. And after a few months of dating they had started sleeping together whenever Sirius could. After Harry's last escapade he hadn't seen her outside Order's meetings, but now that he felt he could trust him again he arranged now and then for someone to keep an eye on the kids while he'd spend most of the time with her. He knew that sooner or later he'd have to say this at least to the kids and Remus, but he just wasn't sure about that yet.
He slowly headed for his room to sleep a couple of hours before one of the kids saw him. The second he closed his eyes he instantly slept and two hours later he shot up from loud banging on his door. Jumping up he ran out of the room only to collide with Remus who looked at him with narrowed eyes.
"What the hell have you been doing all these months?", he asked commandingly.
"Shut up! The kids are here!", Sirius whispered angrily.
"No they are not. I sent them all downstairs for breakfast with Dora. Harry too. Now tell me what's going on!", he demanded again.
Sirius walked past him and went slowly to the kitchen were he started preparing himself some strong coffee. He needed it in order to make it through the day. While he poured himself and Remus a cup he thought as fast as he could considering his pounding head what to say to his best friend. Lying would not have any results. Remus would simply know. "I had an issue of my own to arrange last night, that's all."
"If that was all you wouldn't mind the kids knowing and you would have asked me to watch over them instead of Dora.", Remus answered waiting patiently for his friend to give up and tell him everything.
"Why are you so curious anyways, Moony?", Sirius asked exasperated.
"Merlin, you haven't be so secretive till...", Renus started, only to pause and look with surprised eyes at his best friend before exclaiming, "Sirius Black! You finally got yourself a woman!"
"Will you shut up already? Someone might enter!", Sirius said angrily looking warily at the door behind them.
"All these months that you say you have Order business to attend you actually date! But why on earth are you lying about it?", Remus asked incredulously.
"Well, firstly I have no idea how the kids would react at something like this...", Sirius said quietly.
"And secondly?", Remus asked feeling the real reason had not been told yet.
"I feel bad for doing it, ok? I mean we are in the middle of a war and I am thinking of romance!", Sirius said looking in his cup.
"Haven't you learned anything from our old headmaster, Padfoot?", Remus asked as his best friend glanced up to meet his eyes, "The only thing that can keep us strong during such challenging times, is love. So stop beating yourself over it and accept it as a present. A gift for your life.", Remus said. Sirius merely nodded. "Ok, now the interesting part! Who is she?", Remus asked a grin forming on his face.
"Serenity...", Sirius answered a small smile on his face.
"Good thing she is in the Order then. She already knows about Harry and everything. She is willing to help or she wouldn't be a member. Why to hide it then? Sooner or later you'll need to tell the kids. They will start to understand something's going on and you know it. You'd better do it before they hear it from someone else.", Remus said thoughtfully.
"I will..", Sirius said but before he managed to end his phrase a popping sound was heard and a small piece of parchment along with a phoenix feather appeared in front of them. Sirius frowned and grabbed the letter.
Sirius and Harry,
I found another Hocrux. It is destroyed.
Alastor is severely poisoned, but he will
probably live. Order meeting tonight at 8.
Albus Dumbledore.
"Albus said another Hocrux is destroyed. Alastor is severely poisoned but he'll live. We have a meeting tonight at 8. Remember not to mention anything about the Hocruxes there, Rem.", Sirius said his face dark.
"Of course i'll remember Padfoot. I'll head downstairs now. Ok?", Remus said, while standing.
"Sure. Please send the kids back up when they are finished eating.", Sirius said. His friend nodded and slowly left the room. Sirius shook his head. No matter how much time passed, he could not just get used to the roller-coaster of alternating feelings. Of alternating news. Almost like different realities sucked them in every other minute. They would make it though. They should.
…...
The days passed quickly. The news of the destroyed Hocrux were overshadowed by the state of Moody's health. Harry and the rest of the kids were kept occupied by their daily lessons as well as chores and packing for the days they'd spend at the Shell Cottage. Just a day before they'd take off, Harry asked for permission to go to Snape's quarters, where Moody was. He had to see the man. The man that risked his life for him. Both men actually. He knew by now that Snape had accompanied the headmaster as well. When Sirius told him he could go, the dark haired boy ran to the castle as fast as he could. In a little less than ten minutes he made it almost breathless to Snape's door and knocked loudly.
"Good morning, Harry.", Severus said a little surprised by the visit, when he answered the door, "Is everything alright?"
"Good morning sir. Yes everything is fine. I just wanted to come and visit mr Moody as well as you..", the boy said flushing a little.
"Come in, then. Alastor is awake actually. He's in the first room on your right hand down the hall.", Severus said. The boy nodded and made his way towards the room, while Snape put some water to boil to make some tea. A few minutes later Harry came out closing the door behind him. Severus nodded to him to take a sit in the living room and offered him a steaming cup of tea.
"Thank you, sir.", Harry said quietly, looking at Snape directly in the eyes.
"You have nothing to thank me for, Harry. I'll do anything within my power to help Voldemort's destruction, and make sure you are safe.", he answered honestly.
"You risked your lives for me. I can never pay you back for this, but I will always be more than grateful sir.", Harry said again.
"Everything turned out fine Harry, so stop worrying about it. How are you feeling now that yet one Hocrux is dead?", Severus asked and searched the boy's face intently.
"I feel considerably better sir. But still four of them are out there and we have no idea where. But professor Dumbledore is doing the best he can so we'll probably get to the others too. I hope soon enough, though.", Harry answered truthfully.
"That is right Harry. All you can do is concentrate on your training and your studies as well as keeping yourself safe. Try to accomplish those three things and we'll see from there. Today you'll get your OWLs results. Right?", Severus asked.
Harry clapped his forehead with his pen palm, "I knew I forgot something!", He yelled and then jumping up he started running out of Severus' quarters yelling back yet another 'thank you' and 'goodbye'. Severus almost chuckled with the boy. Feeling a lot better than before he headed to check on the antidote he was brewing. If he managed to keep Moody alive for another week he'd heal him once and for all.
…...
Sirius was holding the parchment in his hands smiling proudly. Harry had made it quite well. A lot better than he had on his OWLs. Except of history of magic and divination everything else was either Outstanding or Exceed Expectations. It was just then when Harry came running inside. Seeing his godfather smiling while reading a parchment he rushed to him and grabbed it out of Sirius' grip reading it quickly. When he finished a big grin formed on his face as Sirius hugged him tightly.
"Congratulations, Harry!", he said happy and ruffled his hair when they broke the hug. "This is great! I'm so proud of you!"
"Thanks!", Harry said awkwardly and then turned towards the door that someone was banging loudly. "That must be Ron...", Harry said and opened it to reveal a grinning Ron.
"NEWT students, mate!", He yelled enthusiastically and gave him an one arm hug.
"Congratulations Ron!", Sirius said smiling leaning on the kitchen counter and smiling looking at the two boys chatting ecstatically. Just then Hermionie joined. When she saw them celebrating she smiled and hugged both of them.
"I can't wait for the beach party! We'll totally celebrate this!", she said happily.
Ron looked at her pointedly and then at Harry. Harry then remembered he had not filled them in about Sirius' decision to let him go and decided that now would be the time.
"Don't worry, Ron. I'll be there too!", he said smiling.
"Really?", both his friends asked happily. Sirius couldn't help but grin even more. A roller-coaster or not, life was still wonderful. As long as he could see those smiles on those faces, life was wonderful.
…...
Everything was ready. When the sun dived in the ocean and the light finally started to lessen Hermionie raised her wand and lit the fire. Mrs Weasely had already prepared them tones of sandwiches and other treats that hovered around them on enchanted trays while they were sitting by the fire in a circle and drinking their butterbeers. Harry and Ginny had not leave each other's arms even for a second. The night was great and the fire kept them warm beside the cold ocean breeze. The ocean humming quietly in the background offered the perfect soundtrack to their goodbye summer party.
Everything was running pretty smoothly. Fred and George had made them laugh their hearts out, and they were all excited to finally share their news altogether. Harry was celebrating the end of his grounding and Ginny the end of her not seeing Harry. It was then that Hermione with a strange twinkle in her eyes took something out of her inner pocket. Something small and slim. White like a small pen. Everyone gaped at her questioningly. Then Ron's eyes widened realizing what it was and Fred clapped his hands happily.
"What is that?", Harry asked worriedly.
"This, my friend...", said George,
"Is an illujoint.", finished Fred.
"A what?", Ginny asked incredulously.
"Yeah, what?", Harry asked still not understanding.
"Magical mild drug Harry... It makes you feel nice and pleasantly and slowly creates mild illusions around you.", Ginny said looking at Hermionie with disbelief. She would not be surprised if the twins had brought something like that, but Hermionie?
"Where the hell did you find a thing like that?", asked Ron.
"I told you we would celebrate it, didn't I?", she asked mischievously.
"Ah... Who are you and what have you done to my girlfriend?", Allan asked looking at her with confused eyes.
"Oh, come on guys! It's going to be a lot of fun! We'll just get our fun and nothing will happen. It's totally harmless. The guy that I bought it from reassured me, so no worries.", she said happily.
"The truth is we had tried at a party last year and indeed nothing happened. We just had a really cool time.", George said smiling widely. Then glancing at Ginny's questioning look he added seriously, "No, Ginny we never did it again. We just tried that one time. It's not really bad anyways. If it was, we wouldn't let you guys do it."
"What if some of the adults gets out here?", asked Ses worriedly but more confident from George's reasoning.
"They probably won't... I mean they can see us from the windows and so they won't come out if we won't ask them to. And i'm pretty sure that from the window they won't see that.", Eric said, looking at the others and pointing at the little joint. "Besides, the meeting has only started. It will keep them busy for at least another hour."
"Ok, then!", Ses said more eager to try now that she saw that most of them were in favor of doing it.
Hermionie lit it carefully in the fire and took the first whiff. Exhaling slowly she passed it to Allan who was right beside her.
When Allan was done, coughing lightly, he offered it to Harry. Harry hesitated for a second. Then he slowly got up and said, "I won't guys. I'm not risking any more grounding or Sirius' trust. It's late anyways and i'm tired. Have fun.", then he turned to Gin who looked at him with hesitant eyes. He could see that one part of her wanted really bad to try. And he wouldn't tell her not to. But he'd certainly be happy if she wouldn't. When she did not get up though he smiled at her and pecked her quickly before walking towards the house alone.
Once inside he went to the living room sofa, where he lied down and watched the others from the window opposite him. The giggles and laughter soon started to increase. It was then that Harry felt someone behind him. When he turned his head to see, Ginny stood at the door smiling. "I thought you might like some company!", she said quietly and then made her way to the couch and curled up in his arms.
"You sure, you won't regret this? I don't want you not doing stuff you'd like to try just because of me.", Harry asked while breathing the wonderful smell of her hair.
"Totally Harry. I would regret that.", she said pointing towards the fire, "But I would never regret this!", she added snuggling even closer to him to show him she meant his hug. Harry held her tightly and they just sat there looking at the ocean and the stars.
"This is the greatest beach party ever!", Harry whispered to her ear. Ginny giggled softly and closed her eyes. For a few seconds the only sounds she heard was the far away waves and Harry's even heartbeat. Then like a spell just broke, a scream was heard from the company outside. Both of them shot up, while Sirius, Remus, Arthur, Molly and Tonks ran down the stairs their wands held out.
"What is going on?", Sirius asked worriedly.
"No idea! We just heard it too!", Ginny answered bewildered.
The adults quickly left the house and ran towards the kids. Harry saw Remus carrying someone in his arms as he rushed back inside while the rest of the adults remained and yelled things they could not hear.
"You think, they realized what it was?", Harry asked worriedly.
"Most definitely... And even if they haven't", Ginny answered and nodded towards Remus who approached the house holding Hermionie in his hands, "we should tell them so that they can help Mionie..."
When Remus walked in they saw Hermionie thrashing in his hands, weird noises coming from her throat. Her eyes were open and wide pure terror inside them, moving unnaturally fast.
"Harry run upstairs and get Severus. Hurry!", Remus said bewildered while he took his ward's pulse. Harry ran upstairs yelling Severus name all along and when he saw him emerge a worried expression on his face he started explaining what had happened. Severus immediately rushed down the stairs to where Hermionie was laying and reaching inside his robes he took out a small vial and poured its content in her mouth. When the spasms stopped and her eyes closed he turned to Remus.
"This is the result of an illujoint. A pretty bad one actually. I'm guessing someone offered them a quite cheap one. Not that this could not have happened with one of high quality... You never know what the illusions will be.",he said. Remus didn't answer he stood there looking at the other wizard disbelievingly. When Severus saw he had nothing to say he added, "I need to floo to my home and get the proper antidote. I gave her a mild sleeping potion for now. Take her to her bed and i'll be back as soon as I can.", then he turned to Harry his eyes hard and his voice stern, "Did you tried too? Or you miss Weasely? I need the truth. I'll have to bring antidote for all you as a precautionary measure."
"We didn't! Honestly! That's why we came in here, we didn't want to try.", Harry said and Ginny nodded vigorously behind him.
"The others?", Remus simply asked.
Harry and Ginny looked at each other not wanting to tell on anyone, "We weren't out to see who did and who didn't. You'll have to ask them...", Ginny said.
"Ask them what?", a very angry Mr Weasely asked while he entered followed by Sirius and the kids.
"I need to know how many of them tried that thing. I have to get the correct amount of antidote in case what happened to Ms Granger happens to someone else too.", Severus said once again. All heads turned to the kids, who were standing there guilty looks on their faces.
"We all did...", Fred said quietly, not meeting his parents gaze.
Severus turned instantly and hurried to the fireplace before disappearing in the green flames. Sirius turned to Harry his eyes questioning.
"I didn't.", Harry simply said. And his godfather new he was telling the truth.
Nodding Sirius said, "You can go to your room then Harry. Get some sleep. We'll leave first thing in the morning.", then he turned to Allan and Ses, "You will sit in here and wait until Severus gets back. After you get your antidote straight to your rooms. We'll deal with this tomorrow at home.", he said, his voice stern yet low. Ses almost whimpered at his words and burried her face into Eric's arms, who stood there waiting for Remus and Dora's instructions.
"That goes for you too Eric.", Dora said, while Remus glared at him dangerously. When Mr Weasely pointed the couch to his children as well they all sat and waited in heavy silence.
"Dad, I didn't try any either... May I please go upstairs?", Ginny asked. When her father nodded she hurried upstairs and into her room. She wanted to join Harry in his, but with her parents that angry she wouldn't dare. It was going to be a long day tomorrow she thought. After quite some squirming in her bed, she gave up trying to sleep. She slowly exited her room and knocked on Bill's that was right beside her bedroom. A few seconds later, her older brother opened it and looked at her surprised.
"Everything ok, Gin?", he asked somewhat worried.
"Yeah... Were you sleeping?", she asked, biting her bottom lip. Bill knew that something was wrong and nodded for her to get inside.
"Are we sobering up and getting all guilty?", he asked raising an eyebrow at his little sister, as they both sat on his bed.
"What? No! I didn't try it! Neither did Harry. We came inside when the others lit it.", she said defensively.
Bill smiled widely at that. "I'm very proud of you for doing so. I know, from personal experience how hard it is to say no sometimes."
"Well, it was Harry who said it first.", she said smiling slightly. "Is Hermionie going to be ok?", she asked.
"From the joint? Sure. She got the antidote soon enough so she'll be fine. I'm not sure if she'll be fine after Remus is through with her though...", he said smiling sadly.
"Yeah... Ron and the twins were frightened, when mom and dad caught them.", she said.
"I'm afraid they're in for their worst punishment till now, Gin."
"Worst than risking their lives? I doubt it. And they've got punished for that quite a few times.", she answered.
"They did risk their lives, Ses. Whenever you try a magical drug, you risk your life. You never know, what kind of reaction you'll get from them. Or how your organism will react to it. And they risked all these just for some fun. Not to help a friend, not to save a life, but to have fun.", he said. Then taking in a deep breath he said, "Me and Charlie tried once. When we were still at Hogwarts. I got an illujoint from a friend, before Christmas break and decided to try it one day that mom and dad with all of you except of Charlie and Persy had gone to visit some aunt or something. Charlie saw me and insisted on trying. When I was taking the last whiff, dad came in my room, and caught us in the act. He had forgotten something they needed for Ron and came back to take it. He went mental. It was the first and last time, I ever got the switch. And trust me, Gin, it hurts like hell."
"Wow! I didn't know that... Dad had never told us the story.", Ginny said looking at her brother sympathetically.
"He didn't want to give you any ideas probably. But the boys will learn their lesson first hand now anyways.", Bill said and yawned.
"Guess i'd better leave you to get some sleep.", his little sister smiled. "Thanks for the company."
"Nothing, kiddo. I'm really proud of your choice tonight Gin.", Bill smiled back.
…...
As soon as the door of their quarters opened and Allan Harry and Ses stepped in, Sirius turned to Harry. "You're officially un-grounded Harry, so how about getting Ginny to do something together and give us a little privacy here? Me and your siblings have a lot to talk about.", Harry nodded and glancing at his sibling sympathetically he left as fast as he could. As soon as the door closed behind him, Sirius turned to the two teens that were looking at their shoes with immense interest. "Have a sit, guys.", he said gently yet firmly. When both of them sat on the couch he sat himself at the coffee table facing them. "What on earth possessed you to do something so stupid?", he asked his voice still mild. Silence. "It was NOT a rhetorical question. Why did you do it? What exactly did you think when you decided to try it?", he said more sternly now.
"We just wanted to see how it was...", Ses said quietly.
"Aha, ok. Then let me ask you this. Did you remember the HUGE rule of no drinking and no drugs?", Sirius asked.
"Yes sir.", Allan answered.
"Ok, then secondly, did you know exactly what that joint did? What kind of drug was it? What it would cause? You knew the guy that you bought it from and trusted him or her?", Sirius asked his voice raising a little by now.
"No...", Sesylia answered.
"Well, let me tell you this. Had professor Snape not been there, had he not brought the antidote, Hermionie could have died. Any of you could have died, because any of you could experience what she did. The illusion could be anything from ideal to terrifying. You experience them like it's absolute reality. Something that can cause from heart attack to permanent and complete madness or other psychological issues.", he told them his voice now firm and low. When they said nothing he asked, "Who sold it to you?"
"We d...don't know. Mionie g..got it. We didn't kn...know she'd b..buy it.", Ses said already crying.
Sirius put a gentle finger under her chin and lifted her head up to meet his eyes, "Honey, don't cry. I'm not telling you all these to make you miserable, i'm trying to make you realize the gravity of your actions.", then he turned to Allan, "Did you know she was planning this?", he asked gently.
"No, Sirius, honestly. She hadn't told me anything. She's going to be fine, isn't she?"
"Yes, she'll be fibe. We were lucky to have Severus there. She got the antidote right on time. I know that the muggle joints, are a lot more harmless than our magical ones. That's probably why she wanted to buy it. But still what she did, what all of you did, is inexcusable. Teens have the tendency to try new things. I can understand that. But that's why two things are strictly forbiden. Alcohol and drugs can cause immense damage. That's why even when you feel the urge to try them, you need to say no. And since you seem unable to remember that on your own, i'm going to give you something that will help you remember next time.", their godfather said seriously.
"Please, Sirius, we already get it...", Ses pleaded with him.
"Actions have consequences, Sesylia. You made a poor choice and now you'll pay the piper for it.", he answered firmly. When both teens nodded, he said, " I want you both in your rooms. I'll come in shortly." The kids got up and made their ways to their rooms miserably. Sirius stood there not really knowing what he would do. A simple hand-spanking was probably not enough. He knew that Arthur would use a switch but he felt this was not the appropriate approach. A belt was out of the question. The wounds that were left in his soul from that dreaded implement by his father would never let him use it. He was sure of that. Then he glanced at the door of his room. Getting inside he opened the last drawer of his dresser. There he started rummaging. Soon he found what he was searching for. A small leather paddle, yet heavy, rested in his hand. It was the very paddle that James' dad had used on them for the most serious offenses. James had gotten it after his father death and then it was inherited to Sirius since he was the godfather and the one Lily and James wanted to take care of their kids. Remembering just how much it hurt, and what a huge impression it always made to him and James he decided it was the thing to be used. Putting it in his pocket he opened his door again and headed to Sesylia's room. When he entered Ses was already waiting on her bed her eyes moist. Sirius felt he had done enough talking, so he sat beside her and lifted her slowly, guiding her over his lap.
"I love you, Sesylia. Never forget that.", he said. Then flicking his wand he bared her butt and silenced the room. Raising his hand high in the air he brought it down with a resounding smack. Sesylia yelped loudly. A few seconds later two more smacks landed right at the same spot making her yelp louder. Sirius continued like that. Smack after smack a few seconds pause and then again on the same spots, covering like that the whole bottom. Ses was crying soon enough and was squirming with all her might but to no avail. When Sirius felt she slowly quit protesting and her cheeks were pink enough, he took the paddle out. Taking in a deep breath he crashed it down on his goddaughter's butt causing her to yell out in pain. Ten swats later and Ses was limp over his lap just accepting her punishment. Feeling that, Sirius decided it was time to finish up.
SWAT You will never SWAT ever, SWAT try any drug SWAT again. SWAT No matter how innocent or harmless SWAT you believe it is. SWAT SWAT SWAT SWAT
"Yeeees sir! I am sorryyyyy!", Ses cried.
Sirius landed two more swats to each sit spot and then quickly restored the girl's clothes and gathered her in his arms. Stroking her hair and kissing her forehead he tried to calm her down. "Shh now, Ses. Everything's over. I love you very much sweety. That's why I couldn't let this go unpunished. No drugs, again baby girl. I don't care if it's just a joint or whatever. Never again, baby."
"I promise! I am so sorry Sirius.", she answered through her remaining sobs.
When she was calm again Sirius looked at her in the eyes and said, "I need to go to Allan now. Will you be ok?", when she nodded he added, "I'm not going to ground you, since I believe the spanking was hard enough, but your broom stays on the ground for a week."
"Ok... I love you.", Ses said hugging him tightly.
"I love you too, sweety.", Sirius said and pocketing the paddle he left her room and taking a deep breath he headed to Allan's.
…...
Remus was sitting on Hermionie's bed. The teen was beside him looking at the floor, crying softly. He had her small hand in his and was rubbing her back soothingly. They hadn't talked yet. But when Remus knocked her door and she saw the disappointment in his eyes, Hermionie couldn't keep he tears from falling. She had lead all of her friends to trouble, she had let Remus and Dora down, she had almost caused serious damage to herself and all of her friends for the mere fun of a stupid joint. More than anyone she was angry and disappointed in her own self.
"Hermionie, what is wrong child?", Remus asked concerned. When she didn't answer he pressed on, "Talk to me! Why all these tears?", still nothing from the kid. "Are you afraid of the punishment?", he asked gently. Hermionie shook her head. "Are you still afraid of what happened to you?", again she shook her head. Remus took in a deep breath, his patience leaving him. "Hermionie, i'll only ask once again and you'd better answer me young lady! What is wrong?"
Hermionie glanced at him slightly worried and not wanting to take any chances, said, "I... I screwed up..."
Remus looked at her confused, "Yes, honey, all of us do from time to time."
"But I did big time! And now everyone is in trouble. And I could have hurt someone with my stupid idea! This is all my fault! And they'll hate me now!", she said crying even harder now.
Remus put his arms around her and let her bury her head in the crook of his neck before saying, "Hermionie, the only thing that is your fault is making the poor choice of trying a drug. Nothing more. The others are in trouble because they did the same. You didn't threaten them into doing it. It was their choice. And nobody is going to hate you. We all love you very much. As for hurting yourself, you are quite right. There is a reason for the huge rule in and out of Hogwarts about drinking and drug use. And mind the fact that drug use is not allowed later either. It's illegal even for adults.", he told her soothingly. Her crying had lessen hearing his words.
"I'm so sorry Remus! I should never have done this!", she wishpered.
"You shouldn't. But you did. Why you did it, though? Why would a girl like you, who always follows the rules, unless there is quite the reason to break them, would you buy something like that and would want to try it?", he asked looking her directly in the eyes.
"I was tired of being all that perfect Remus. I mean, when I hadn't my parents around I felt I should take care of myself and make sure everything is right. They have a very hard time understanding this world and I tried my best not to worry them with getting into trouble too. But now that I feel that someone takes care of me, the way you and Dora do, sometimes I just can't help it and let my unruly self out. It was such an urge yesterday. And I truly am sorry...", she said truthfully.
Remus smiled at her kindly, "I'm glad you feel that way about us, Hermionie. And I do understand your actions a little better now. As for your unruly self, i'm afraid it only lands you in trouble. And you're going to face the consequences.", he said firmly. Then he helped her to her feet and then gently guided her over his lap. "Hermionie, I know I am not your father but this spanking is to be felt. It is to be hard and make you think twice before pulling anything like this again, that will lead to endanger your life with absolutely no reason. That's why I will bare your bottom for it.", he said seriously. The girl over his lap groaned, but other than that said nothing. Nodding to himself Remus lifted her skirt up and with one swift motion lowered her pink underwear trying hard not to wonder why would a fifteen year old girl need see-through panties. Reminding himself what this was about he drew his wand and flicked it conjuring a big leather slipper. He had decided that for such a serious offense he would go straight with the implement for the whole duration of the spanking. Taking a deep breath he brought it down sharply, causing the girl to hiss loudly with the contact. More swats fell, hard ones that made her squirm and had her soon pleading for him to stop. Remus turned a deaf ear to the girls pleas and concentrated to the task in hand. Soon the girl was limp on his lap just crying with every punishing blow. Remus seeing the red cheeks in front of him decided it was time to end the punishment.
"No SWAT drugs SWAT again AWAT whatsoever. SWAT No SWAT endangering SWAT your life SWAT so foolishly SWAT again SWAT. Am SWAT I SWAT understood SWAT young lady SWAT?"
"Yes! Yes sir!", she cried weakly. Remus stopped and slowly helped her up while he fixed her clothing with his wand.
Gathering her in his arms he started rubbing her back. When he sobs lessened and he felt her body relax in his arms he kissed her forehead and looked at her reassuringly, "I will always be here for you Hermionie. To love you, to praise you, to listen to your worries, and to punish you when needed."
"Thank you sir... Thank you so much!", she said. And hugged him tightly.
A soft knock on their door made them both turn around. Eric's head popped in and said, "Dora said that lunch is ready...", he said quietly. His red and somewhat puffy eyes told Hermionie he had felt the werewolf's wrath before her.
Remus smiled and helping Hermionie off of his lap he put a hand around her shoulders and the other around Eric's while he walked them to the dining room, "Let's not keep her waiting then.", he said gently.
"I don't really think I can sit though, Remus...", Eric said.
"I believe a cushioning spell will help both of you." He answered kindly, "But you will sit down for lunch kids. And let the discomfort help the lesson sink in."
"Yeah, like the slipper didn't already manage that!", Eric said jokingly, wincing and hissing slightly while sitting on his freshly spanked bottom.
"The slipper? My love you're losing your talent! I had gotten the strap for the illujoint at their age!", Tonks said teasingly.
"Like, six years before?", he teased back, "Well, you were lucky we didn't date back then!", he added smiling widely. Tonks smiled back and gave him a passionate kiss.
"Ew! Guys! We're trying to eat here! Like the fire toasting our butts weren't enough!", Eric groaned and 'Mionie chuckled.
Remus loughed loudly and they all sat and started eating.
…...
Later that day while Ginny and Harry were relaxing by the lake, they saw Ron slowly approaching.
"That's bad!", Ginny said seriously.
"What?", her boyfriend asked confused.
"If they're not grounded, then they got a hell of a spanking...", she answered.
"Hey guys...", Ron said gloomly.
"Hey, mate. Come on and join us.", Harry said.
Ron went closer but never actually sat down.
"Bill said dad would probably switch you...", Gin said without any tact at all.
Ron blushed furiously as Harry elbowed her lightly for her way. "He did...", was all Ron said.
"Oh man... Sorry...", Harry said. Then glancing at Ginny said, "How about going to Hogsmead for a butterbeer? We'll stand at the bar, so no sitting whatsoever. It is our last free night after all. The day after tomorrow it's school, so there is no way they'll let us go out tomorrow. What d'you say?"
Ron smiled at the thought and Ginny hopped up instantly, "Let's find the others too, then, shall we?", and they all headed for the tower. Ginny smiled widely at Harry and kissed him tenderly while they were waiting.
"What was that for?", Harry asked.
"Because, Harry James Potter, you are the sweetest and most considerate person i've ever met!", she said smiling and staring at his stunning green eyes. Harry smiled at her and looked at the floor flushing slightly. A few seconds later and with Ron in the background pretending he was puking, Ses, Allan, Eric and 'Mionie joined them and the small company headed to Hogsmead.