Hey lovely people! I'm sorry about the late chapter but I love wiriting this story too much to let it go- so fear not. A heart thank you to a new reviewer, gandalf537 and Harley Q, our most highly esteemed guest. And as always my reviewer since day 1 EluredandElurin. Thank you thank you!
A long summary just in case my reviewers are caught up and I don't forget what I already wrote and yada yada etc:
At the end of second year Peter sees Michael Duke running scared out of Maya Angus's Hillbards compartment but thinks nothing of it until the Daily Prophet reveals that Maya Angus Hillbard died on the Hogwarts Express. For Peter's thirteenth birthday Peter has to complete a series of silly tasks one of them, to tell a secret that no one knows. He eventually tells Mary MacDonald what he saw Micheal Duke do last year and she like Peter believes that Michael may have had a hand in killing Maya because he starts avoiding her. Despite the headmasters disapproval Aurors flood the school searching for clues regarding Maya's death and Lucas Anderson fears it's because he thinks they've found out about his illegal potion selling. Michaels name however is cleared when it is discovered that Maya committed suicide but his friendship with Mary is strained and they are no longer friends because she didn't believe him. The Quiditch captains, Elvis Lockhart, Emma Vanity and Colton Breckbridge try to discard the book of the dead that they opened last year with Maya Hillbard...something they don't want anyone else to know about.
Oh and Marlene and half of the school population is currently crushing on the super hot Divination professor, Razel Dante- much to the boy's dismay. Dorcas has lost her mind that Myriad isn't releasing his album like he does every year and Lily is caught the attention of a very conceited James Potter- for some reason.
Boy was that a lot. Hopefully that brings you all up to date!
I own nothing- everything belongs to J.K. Rowling :)
Horace Slughorn hated being awoken early- and so naturally he hated Head of House meetings that took place in the early morning when the sky was still dark and the stars had only just disappeared. And despite that he still awoke, his pin-striped pajamas ironed the night before, a warm silky blue robe specifically tailored for the day and hair swept back elegantly- but not too much that it didn't seem that he hadn't slept a wink at all. You see Horace Slughorn was a man of image and it was this image that he flaunted to those around him. He didn't care how much time and work it took- image had to be maintained. And so at half past 3:30 am Horace Slughorn made his way towards the Headmasters office, not so conveniently located 6 stories up from where he was. But fear not, Horace had made sure that it didn't mess with his image. He calculated if he walked at a normal pace, towards the Headmasters office, he would lose a bit of his posh look, therefore making it look like he woke up just as he was.
Of course, not everyone understood the power of image.
When he arrived, Minerva was sitting upright next to the headmaster, her hair piled in a messy frizzy bun atop her head(the strands of her brown hair were dry and brittle-what conditioner was she using?) while her flowery nightgown was an array of wrinkles and fuzz. Here, she didn't look like the demeaning Transfiguration professor the rest of the student body knew her as. To her right Emily was dressed similarly- Horace had to remind himself the school healer didn't always dress up in healer robes, but it was quite a shock to see her in seemingly normal clothes all the same. As usual Fillius was propped on his set of books so that his head could be seen from the table and Horace nodded at him before taking a seat to his left. It was at this point he realized that there was someone new sitting at the table. No, not new. Horace made it his mission to know everyone before they knew him. It was how he knew that the man sitting across from Minerva was Michel Heathen, the new Defense teacher for the year while the pretty young blonde to his right was his wife and the appointed Muggle Studies teacher, Ms. Heathen. So yes Horace knew who the new man sitting next to her was, he just didn't realize how shabby his own image suddenly looked compared to his.
"Razel Dante." Fillius told him sharply, suppressing a smile.
"I know who he is." Horace told him as a matter of fact. "In fact I believe I knew his father at some point..." he eyed the young handsome man that was Razel Dante. Though not dressed in silky robes like him, he maintained an aura of high society. His dark hair was thick and full, his face chiseled and perfect, that despite his look of seriousness as he graded the essays before him, he looked as if he belonged on Witch Weekly's most handsome men.
"And once again, the question arises Horace- how old are you?" Minerva sighed, turning to look at him expectantly. The rest of the occupants at the table looked at him curiously, and Horace tugged at his robes uncomfortably. They all never believed him when he told them that despite his chubby form he was just a tender thirty- six.
"Now Minerva let's not get all the newcomers started-" Horace began when the door opened and the last few stragglers stumbled in. Horace smiled. He prided himself in being the middle guy by not coming in too early or too late. It made him seem normal, yet went comfortably with his polished laid back image.
"Forgive me Headmaster!" the new Care of Magical Creatures, and newly appointed head of Hufflepuff cried running in looking frazzled. "I didn't realize the meeting was so early-!"
The headmaster chuckled. "Come in Lindsey, fear not, the tea hasn't even gotten cold yet." As he said this he had levitated a silver tray of tea cups, steaming and freshly brewed no doubt, onto the large table they were seated at.
Horace cleared his throat. "I take mine a particular way-"
"Light, almond milk, with extra sugar." the headmaster nodded towards him. A small tea cup set itself in front of Horace who inspected it's light color- well he supposed it was alright.
When the remaining few stragglers took their seat, Dumbledore called the meeting to order- starting with the unfortunate incident regarding Maya Hillbard. Horace had personally read up every article in the Prophet relating to the matter, making polite conversations with her friends and digging up every piece of information he possibly could.
"The Ministry has arranged for Mr. Duke trials this morning where I will be there in attendance, of course." The headmaster told them. "Moreover they have informed me that the Aurors will not leave until it is determined who really did kill Ms. Maya Hillbard."
"But do we really know it's a murder? And that Mr. Duke himself done it?" the Astronomy professor, Evelyn Sinsintra asked. "For all we know the poor boy could be innocent. As it is, the general consensus was that Ms. Hillbard committed suicide."
Razel spoke, looking up for the first time. "I looked over the post-mortem reports for Ms. Hillbard and everything does indeed point to suicide. The nervousness as she boarded the train, the time of death, her friends testimonies as well- if I may speak so boldly, I believe Mr. Duke was simply at the wrong place at the wrong time."
Minerva nodded. "That is what I believe as well. Mr. Pettigrew didn't seem fully sure that Mr. Duke killed Ms. Hillbard- just that he was terrified as he ran out. And Ms. MacDonald claims to know nothing- except what she was told by Mr. Pettigrew."
"But why would she commit suicide?" Emily questioned. "She was a wonderful student, never a harsh word to to anyone. I distinctly remember her helping in the Infirmary during her free time as well as tutoring first years whenever she could."
"And subpar grades." Fillius added. "Lower than they used too be at the beginning of the year, although that is quite common among older students- they tend to lose interest once the year is nearly over."
"And wasn't it the Minister himself who personally offered her that internship last summer?"
"Indeed."
"What about her friends?" Horace asked quickly taking a sip of tea to inspect. It turned out it really was sweet. "What do they have to say about her sudden death?"
"Same thing as their testimonies. That she kept to herself and was distant for a few weeks before the train ride." Lindsey Kuren added. "In fact after my first Care class I had two more students, a 5th and 6th year inform me that they saw Ms. Hillbard crying before she boarded the train last year- perhaps it was then that she realized she wanted an escape from whatever was bothering her?"
"I quite agree." Rolanda spoke. Now this was a disgrace to a lady- if there ever was. The flying teacher not only refused to dress up in formal lady clothes but she also opted to not tame her short boyish hair cut, despite Horace's polite suggestions. "Ms. Hillbard did seem to be quite nervous during her last term. She wouldn't show up for the team meetings for long periods of time and when her captains reached out to her- she often refused to speak to them. I believe they were all questioned recently, as well."
"That they were- in the summer. But then why was Mr. Lockhart questioned again?" Horace spoke boldly turning to Fillius. "It's been quite a intriguing topic around my house."
"It seems-" Fillius began nervously. "that Mr. Lockharts testimony had arisen some doubts with the Aurors. He was quite nervous during the testimony too which lead them to believe that he might be hiding something. However I believe the nervousness could be equated to anything as Mr. Lockhart is quite younger than the other captains. The death of his fellow captain could have severely shaken him."
"A death of someone so close can be quite alarming." Razel nodded. "Mr. Lockhart is in my Ancient Runes class this year, and he seems quite disturbed by her death. Were they close friends?"
"As close as captains get." Rolanda nodded. "I don't think any group of captains have been as close as these four were- I can only imagine what they're going through."
"What do you think headmaster?" Horace asked as everyone turned to the Headmaster who eyed them with his curious half-moon spectacles. "I agree with Razel that Mr. Duke was simply at the wrong place at the wrong time."
That seemed to be the consensus as everyone nodded at the table, and the headmaster made a commitment to talk to the ministry the next morning to secure Mr. Duke's rapid return.
And that was when the tables turned on him!
"-and it's not just the older students but the younger ones as well." Minerva was saying. Horace sighed. Every year Minerva brought up the Slug Club and the harmful impact it had on the student's studies, and this year it seemed was no different.
"It was one year!" Horace spoke. "One year! I told Darcy Williams that she was no longer part of the Slug Club and she was simply distraught- why should I then be blamed for her failing all her classes?"
It was obvious that no one else spoke as the head of Slytherin and the head of Gryffindor hit it off. The newest additions to the staff looked apprehensive as they watched the head of Slytherin and head of Gryffindor bicker back and forth while the usual staff assured them that this was nothing new- and happened every year, without fail.
"She was a 15 year old teen with low self- esteem which you lowered with your so called Slug-Club!"
"She needed to realize that there is a certain protocol that must be followed to be and therefore stay in the Slug- Club-"
"There it it again!" Minerva shook her head. "Your protocols- which are causing my students to fail, because you're telling them they're not good enough!"
"Perhaps this has to do more with your house not winning the cup for the last few years!"
"This has nothing to do with the cup!" Minerva narrowed her eyes. "And don't you think I've forgotten about those parties you're always hosting Horace!"
"The parties are no different than the several balls Hogwart showcases-!" Horace began hotly.
"Alright settle down you two, this can be discussed elsewhere." The headmaster spoke effectively silencing both Horace and Minerva who glared at each other before looking away. "We've got more important things to discuss regarding our forever staying Aurors." There was a grumble of obvious annoyance around the table as Dumbledore continued. "Because of the increased security posed by the Aurors, Hogsmeade trips will be monitored this year..."
They left the Headmaster's office at half-past 6 and Horace had half a mind to cancel all his classes today and simply take a nap. But then he was reminded of two brilliant students, the only two in their year to advance to 4th year Potions, and 5th year if they wanted- and how he had two very special invitations to make.
"Ms. McKinnon!" McGonagall's voice awoke Sirius and he looked up sheepishly to where she was eyeing the giggling pair of Marlene McKinnon and Dorcas Meadowes. They both stopped promptly when they realized McGonagall had caught them and looked at the Transfiguration professor heads bowed.
McGonagall shook her head levitating Marlene's copy of Forever towards her for all the class to see. Sirius caught a glimpse of the page they had been giggling over. It was the stupid guitar brood from that stupid band that all the girls in his year were obsessed with. Personally Sirius didn't see what the big deal was with the guy. So he played the guitar, what else was new?
"I'm sorry Professor!" Dorcas yelled out immediately, turning slightly pink. "It won't happen again! I promise!"
"I'm quite certain of that Ms. Meadowes," McGonagall's eyes hovered over Sirius for a few seconds and he quickly blinked trying to look alert- like he had been paying attention. "as you will be sitting next to Mr. Black for the remainder of the period."
Sirius turned to his current partner, Merlin Dunphy, a Hufflepuff boy who was prone to clumsy accidents, and watched as he got up and walked wordlessly towards the back of the classroom where Marlene was sitting. In his absence Dorcas Meadowes took her seat next to him. As she did she let out a heavy sigh, like it was a burden for her to change seats in the middle of class all while firmly avoiding any eye-contact with Sirius.
And this greatly amused Sirius. After all he wasn't the one who had been giggling over some stupid rockstar wannabe, so why did this girl think it was so hard to move over and say hi to her new partner. But then again, Sirius noted, this could be interesting. He watched the blonde with renewed interest as she stared down at her parchment. This wasn't just any girl, she was Marlene's best friend and the fact that she was sitting next to Sirius, would irk blondie the most.
"So blondies mad huh?" Sirius asked casually peering over her blank parchment with interest. "Whatcha writing?"
Dorcas Meadowes said nothing and simply started scribbling when McGonagall had started her lesson on transfiguring natural elements. Sirius ignored McGonagall- he was going to have to sit through her class again after all, if not already for the countless detentions he had racked up.
"So you're not a talker huh?" Sirius continued but Dorcas Meadowes didn't budge. So naturally Sirius found the need to bug her to make her respond. He threw bits of parchment at her, he purposefully dropped his quill so that she would have to give it to him(she didn't talk to him, but simply levitated the quill up his nose all without looking at him, not once) he dropped ink all over her parchment- which she vanished without a trace, all whilst still not speaking to him.
And Sirius Black was just getting started. He wouldn't leave the classroom, he decided, without getting a word out of Dorcas Meadowes.
"Hogwarts too has a deep relationship with the four core elements, tracing all the way back to the founders era," McGonagall continued making her rounds around the classroom as she spoke. She eyed Sirius as she walked by and Sirius being Sirius winked. To this the Transfiguration did not respond and simply pointed to his parchment and quill, inviting him to write.
"So Myriad huh?" Sirius elbowed Dorcas when McGonagall had moved on. "He's eh." As he said this he made sure to watch for her reaction. Anyone who was a girl, Sirius recalled, would certainly get riled up when their favorite rockstar wannabe was mentioned. And Dorcas Meadowes was no exception.
Except she was.
She didn't speak and simply scooted away from Sirius, who laughed.
"Oh come on, I don't smell that bad. Although I think I may have forgotten deodorant this morning- is that bad?" he whispered in her ear as she squirmed to move away.
And the bugging commenced.
"How long do you think it takes for blondie to curl her hair?"
A roll of eyes from Dorcas.
"Why do you think McGonagall wears green so much- is she secretly a Slytherin?"
An exasperated sigh this time.
"It is not the spell but the essence of being that correctly defines Transfiguration," McGonagall continued eyes sweeping to Sirius as she passed he and Dorcas once more. "Mr. Black, again I fail to notice that your parchment is still empty."
"Professor, I was just wondering why do you always wear green?"
McGonagall looked down at him. "Detention this evening, Mr. Black."
"Another one?" Sirius grinned. "Aww come on Minnie- you can't be seen with a student that much now can you?"
"Mr. Black," McGonagall looked as if she wanted to strangle Sirius but was held back by her position as a professor. "It is Professor McGonagall to you."
"If you insist." Sirius pretended to look hurt and winked as she walked away. He turned to Dorcas "She loves me."
Another exaggerated roll of eyes from Dorcas.
"If you roll those eyes one more time, they're going to fall out." Sirius told her truthfully. Dorcas looked pointedly at him before rolling her eyes, and making sure Sirius saw. But Sirius Black expected that and when Dorcas turned back to continue taking notes she let out a shriek for her quill had been transfigured into a single eye ball. She pushed it away letting it fall onto the ground before furiously searching for another quill.
"I told you so." Sirius sang laughing openly.
"You know what could also happen if you roll your eyes-?" But what could happen was left unsaid because Dorcas suddenly let out a gasp as did the rest of the class. Confused Sirius looked around to see what he had missed, that everyone had been so fascinated about. As he eyed the classroom nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary. McGonagall was standing in the middle of the classroom as usual, the walls were the same drab blue, there were no dungbombs or fireworks yet the class immediately burst into applause.
"Why is everyone clapping?" Sirius wondered out loud.
"McGonagall just transfigured herself into a cat!" Dorcas told him grinning.
"Did she?" Sirius smirked.
"Yes!" Dorcas smiled. "It was brilliant-" At once the blond realizing she had just spoken to Sirius Black, gasped and quickly shut her mouth.
"Oh come on blondie-wait no you can't be blondie." Sirius realized. "I've got to get you a nickname- since we're on first name basis now."
"We are not on first name basis." Dorcas told him quickly. "You're an idiot and Marlene hates you."
"But I'm not talking to Marlene am I?" Sirius grinned. "And I can easily fix that. Hi. I'm Sirius Black. And you are?"
"Not interested." Dorcas said shutting him down.
Sirius pretended to look hurt. "Why Meadowes, that's quite mean. I suddenly find that I hate you."
"Wonderful." Dorcas shot back. "At least now I know the feeling is mutual."
"Ah," Sirius clicked his tongue liking this fiery temper that Meadowes was channeling. "But you never said that you hate me. You said that Marlene hates me- nothing about a Dorcas Meadowes hating me."
Dorcas sighed and went back to her notes. Sirius waited for her to say something but she never did. Amusing indeed.
"Mr. Black if you would transfigure your leaf please." McGonagall was standing in front of him now, looking quite amused. He looked down at the leaf that she had placed their and steadied his wand.
"Of course Minnie- Stemisvirus!"
The green leaf in front of him withered before blossoming into a small white flower, with tiny yellow blossoms in between.
"Hmm...McGonagall nodded, "You're just missing the stem- but decent Black." With that said she moved on towards the next unsuspecting student, in this case it was Ashley Duncan and Liam Carter.
Sirius sighed looking around the class. He had gotten Dorcas to talk- what was he to do now? And then as he eyed the flower thinking hard...there was something about it, something nagging at him, that he couldn't quite place.
"Lily!"
There it was. The flower was a Lily, and he was strangely reminded of the red head James had developed a crush on- early last year. That was wierd, but perhaps something could be done about it.
"Sirius!"
Sirius turned to the direction of James's voice. He was flailing his arms from his seat next to Remus, who was silently judging the Marauder. "It's a Lily- Sirius it's a Lily!"
And Sirius grinned because he knew exactly what to do. With a quick wave of his wand he had levitated the transfigured lily towards James.
Dorcas watched all this wordlessly from his side. James grinned as he got the lily and then suddenly he had passed the flower towards the real Lily Evans.
"You did something to it, didn't you?" Dorcas accused Sirius suddenly. "Why?"
"It's a prank." Sirius laughed. "It's going to be funny-just watch."
"Not for the other person." Dorcas mumbled. Sirius ignored her and watched as Lily looked up at James and rolled her eyes. He offered the flower to her once more and reluctantly she slammed it on her desk. James grinned in triumph, but it was short lived as Sirius's spell activated and the flower exploded into a dozen white flitterlies that buzzed around Lily. Lily screamed flailing her arms to get rid of the pesky things while Mary MacDonald, who was seated next to her, fell back in the process of getting away from them.
Sirius threw his head back laughing along with the rest of the class who were amused at the expense of two screaming terrified girls. James mouth hung open and he looked at Sirius in disbelief before shrugging and laughing along with the rest of the class.
"DETENTION MR. POTTER!" McGonagall shouted clearing the flitterflies with a wave of her wand and sending James flying to his seat in another. (James bowed deeply as he was levitated back into his seat by a furious McGonagall) Score! Now both he and James had detention..now if only they could get Remus and Peter on board.
Mary and Lily stopped screaming and looked embarrassed when they realized the flitterflies had been cleared.
"I don't understand why you're not laughing Meadowes." Sirius chuckled looking towards her. "Isn't it the funniest thing you've ever seen?"
Dorcas said nothing and the class was silenced for the remainder of the period by McGonagall who, like Dorcas and Mary and Lily, had not found the situation amusing. The silence was short lived because when Micheal Duke suddenly walked into class, the class burst into applause once more. He had been released from the ministry that morning cleared of all charges of the murder of Maya Angus Hillbard and had become a celebrity overnight. The pesky Aurors had been sent back, and the halls seemed to be a little more free of the tension they had brought along with them.
"Welcome back Mr. Duke." McGonagall greeted him. "If you would kindly take your seat next to Mr. Walker, who will fill you in."
"Thank you professor." Michael nodded taking a seat next to Eric quietly.
"Well that wasn't really fun." Sirius remarked. "I liked the whole murder thing- it stirred things a bit. Now it's all boring again."
Dorcas turned her head in disbelief. "You think murder is fun?"
"It's mysterious." Sirius shrugged.
"She committed suicide." Dorcas whispered. "There's nothing fun about that!"
"Well if I looked like her I would too." Sirius remarked offhandedly suddenly remembering the joke he had made earlier that morning when Remus had showed Peter a picture of the dead girl. "I mean have you seen that nose? It's like a bulbous bu-"
"Stop it!" Sirius was surprised at her sudden outburst and he didn't dare utter a word as she spoke. "I thought I should give you a chance- but this is how you really are isn't it? You make fun of people, you think it's amusing to taunt and tease them- but you don't understand just how much it hurts."
"I was just joking...Merlin." Sirius said quickly but the angry blond didn't speak to him after that.
When class ended Dorcas was the first to leave, she quickly joined Marlene and left without looking at him. Sirius Black was confused. He didn't understand what he had done to make her run away.
"See you in Potions!" Peter called walking out with Remus. Sirius sighed remembering, he now had Transfiguration twice- one right after another.
"Do you think she noticed it?" James asked grinning as he slid into a seat next to Sirius and set his book down.
"Who?" Sirius asked, confused.
"Lily!" James told him, eyes wide. "Who else?"
Sirius grinned. Ah right. James's little crush. He almost forgot about that.
"Oh Evans?" Sirius nodded solemnly. "With the flower- yeah mate she definitely noticed." Sirius slapped his friends back again. "She definitely noticed you."
James messed up his hair. "I'm pretty noticeable. Speaking of, Remus and I were talking about our annual Marauder prank this year. Peter's suggested something around Halloween but I think we should wait until we can go to Zonko's in Hogsmeade. And Remus has put in a vote against Remus Lupin day this year."
Sirius laughed fondly remembering last year's events, to this day the duck incident was remembered fondly and would be forever tied to Remus Lupin.
"Maybe this year we can do an annual James Potter day." Sirius suggested, grinning. " I'm sure Evans will definitely notice you then."
James's face brightened at the idea and that was evident as he cheerfully took out his books and quill. "Maybe. Instead of orange we can do red- because she's got red hair..."
Sirius chuckled. This year was sure going to be amusing. As he waited for the 4th years to walk in, particularly a group of girl he and James had taken a liking to, his eyes rested on the two third year students on their way out.
"Michael wait up, Michael!" Mary MacDonald called after the boy who at first didn't turn at the sound of her voice. "Can you at least talk to me for once?"
When he did he spoke in a bored monotone voice. "Maybe later."
"Really?" Mary asked. "You've been avoiding me since we got to school Michael! I just want to talk."
Michael looked at her. "Oh okay. How are you, Mary? Do you like being a third year, how about your classes-?"
"Not about that!" Mary set her books down on the table. "I want to know how you are, what's going on, why- why you're acting like this?"
"I really don't know what you want me to say." Michael told her.
Mary raised her brow but Michael continued. "After all I wasn't the one who told McGonagall that my best friend killed someone."
Mary shook her head quickly rushing to explain. "That wasn't me! That was Peter- he said he saw you on the train and-!"
"And," Michael nodded, laughing. "You believed him? My best friend believed someone who said that they might have seen me kill someone. Yeah, thanks a lot MacDonald."
"I- I didn't know what to think Michael!" Mary spluttered. "Peter's telling me one thing and then you're avoiding me and are you really blaming me for that?"
In answer, Michael only walked away leaving Mary standing in the middle of the classroom, frustrated.
"I hate you!" Mary shouted after him, but he didn't turn back. She looked back towards James and Sirius who were looking intrigued but quickly pretended to look away. Her lips trembled and she sprinted out the class just as the 4th years started shuffling in.
"And scene." Sirius whispered to James who shrugged. Both boys gave each other strange looks before looking for the particular quartet of girls in the incoming 4th year crowd.
"Honestly Lucy I'm telling you if it had been anyone, absolutely anyone else but Colton I would have said no but you know how I feel about Colton." Armonia sighed dreamily. "Even though he's a rubbish romantic he's still my captain and he's just so..." she trailed off dreamily.
"Hot." Lucinda laughed finishing the girls sentence causing Armonia to blush and whisper. "Shhh someone could hear us."
"Too late, I've heard everything."
Both girls turned rapidly towards Colton Breckbridges' voice, Armonia slightly more panicked while an amused Lucinda grinned thinking what a fantastic day it was for the Quidditch captain to be strolling down the Transfiguration corridor.
Both girls however were relieved when the person turned out to be none other than Anastasia Damario, a Slytherin well known for mimicking voices. She let out a loud laugh when Armonia hugged her fiercely.
"Oh Morgana you scared me Ana!" Armonia fretted. "I thought Colton had over heard and I was done for."
"Please," Anastasia rolled her eyes. "I told you before, I'm pretty sure he fancies you- even Derek's noticed it."
"Yes, you would know what dear Derek notices-" Lucinda started heavily emphasizing the name. "Since you know what time he eats, and sleeps, his class schedule, his dog's name- what's it called again?"
"Oliver."
"Oliver."
"Shut up."
"How is it," Anastasia wondered out loud. "That you know who we like but we don't know who you like?"
"It's because she's married to the paper!" Armonia piped up. "It's all she talks about- I wouldn't be surprised if they're practically engaged at this point."
Lucinda sighed. The Holy Grail was her dream, but all that had gone away as soon as Damion had gotten the liberty of heading the club. He had been annoying last year and this year he would be just as insufferable.
"Engaged- and I've already got a baby." Lucinda countered easily. "I'm done with the Holy Grail. This year it's all about me and Gilmore's Gossiper." she announced proudly as they rounded the corner.
"So you're really going to start your own paper?" Armonia asked interested. "Not just mysterious articles like last year?"
Lucinda nodded. "I've asked Dumbledore for permission and everything- he says it's good that 4th years are becoming competitive and," she added with relish "he mentioned something about my mom doing the same when she was at Hogwarts!"
"How old is Dumbledore anyway?" Anastasia wondered. "I've always wondered- I mean he's got a beard, he has to be at least fifty something right?"
They walked past the charms classroom where Armonia waved cheerfully towards Professor Flitwick promising to stop by later and then towards McGonagalls where a third year Gryffindor boy with light brown hair and green eyes was just walking out.
Anastasia gasped as he past them. "That's the boy!"
"What boy?" Lucinda asked.
"The one who they thought killed that Hufflepuff girl!"
"Oh- but he was released right?" Armonia added quickly trying to take a quick peek at him as he stormed away. "Apparently it's confirmed that she committed suicide but no one knows why."
Lucinda watched the boy walk away furiously. "Poor guy, I wonder what he's going through."
"Poor girl..." Anastasia whispered suddenly as they neared the classroom. Lucinda looked towards the small girl who was crying her heart out, as she walked out the classroom.
"Honey, are you okay?" Anastasia asked walking up to the girl and embracing her. As Anastasia moved back Lucinda realized with a jolt who the girl was.
"Mary?"
Mary MacDonald looked up quickly and wiped her tears. Despite that her eyes were still watery, her nose and cheeks a heavy pink flushed color and Lucinda immediately bent down to comfort her. "Are you okay?"
Mary nodded. "I'm fine. I've got to get to class anyways..." She stood up, slung her bag over her shoulder, and walked away as quick as she could.
"Luc..." Armonia beckoned the classroom pointedly. Anastasia put her hands on her hips. "Seriously you're going to leave us with Black and Potter?"
Lucinda rolled her eyes. Sirius Black and James Potter were the annoying third years that had the misfortune of being put into their Transfiguration class. Not only did they drive McGonagall crazy, but none of the girls in their class were safe from the inevitable threat of pranks that the two cooked up. And unfortunately the two of them had decided that Lucinda and her friends were the perfect practice targets.
As usual the duo was seated exactly where the girls had told them not to sit yesterday. A frustrated Harley Spunkmeyer was idly waving her wand to ward of the boys from taking any of three seats she had saved for them.
"Thanks love." Armonia said taking a seat and narrowly avoiding a ball of parchment Sirius had thrown towards them. "Grrr...I swear one of these days Black is going to get punched..."
Anastasia laughed. "I'm telling you there will be one day when the entire girl population will rue the day they met Sirius Black."
Lucinda raised her eyebrows but she could only think about Mary. The Mary who had always been late to their club meetings last year, and when she arrived it was always with a smile on her face- somehow seeing her cry jolted her.
"Oye Black!" Anastasia screamed. She had been doused with dark blue ink. "I'd watch it if I were you!"
"Ms. Damario please take a seat," McGonagall insisted vanishing the ink on her robes without a trace "And Mr. Black please refrain from getting anymore detentions today. Mr. Potter if you would please pass these out..."
Anastasia grumbled straightening her robes as she sat back down. "He's even worse than Ed and Al combined."
As she said this the four of them turned to the duo sitting next to Derek Mercado. Edmund Parkinson was the taller and lankier of the two with dark hair and wide eyes that gave the impression that he was up to something while Alcoste Rosier with his tan skin and deep set eyes was more reserved, but don't let that fool you- as it was he tended to be the mastermind behind most of their plots.
"Stop looking!" Anastasia hissed snapping at the girls causing them to turn. "Derek will see!"
"Merlin Ana!" Lucinda grinned. "All you need to do is wave- I'm sure he'll trapeze right over."
"Yeah," Armonia added. "It's no secret that the entire 4th year boys have a crush on you including both Ed and Al- I bet they're looking at you even now."
Anastasia rolled her eyes. "Well I don't like Ed and Al- or any other 4th year boy for that matter."
"We know." Harley sighed as she peeled a parchment Sirius had taped to her back. "You're lucky you like someone in our year- every time I look towards Black, I feel like he knows!"
"I don't understand why you don't just accept you like him, Harley." Armonia continued. "He's only one year younger than you."
"One year too many." Harley cried. "I can't like someone younger than me- oh he's looking isn't he?"
The three other girls turned to look at Sirius who was indeed looking at Harley. He was casually laying his head on his desk, looking at her with renewed interest.
Lucinda nodded. "For sure- my god he's creepy." The black heir was looking at the girls like he could see right through them, and Lucinda wondered if perhaps he really could.
"It's like he can see what I'm thinking.." Harley shook her head, looking away. "Anyways...Hogsmeade is coming up, what are you guys doing?"
"I've got to get gifts for Christmas," Lucinda rubbed her head. Thinking about Christmas always gave her a headache. "It's always too crowded around the second trip."
"You're right." Anastasia agreed. "I'll come with you, maybe I can get that broom polisher Derek's been raving about. You coming Mon?"
"Oh please," Harley put her hands under her chin. "like she isn't already going with Fabian Prewett."
Armonia blushed. "He asked me yesterday- but- Colton!"
"Coltons an idiot, Mon" Harley told her. "If you ask me Fabian's cuter and besides he's a 7th year- you won't get another date with him after this year."
"Harley Spunkmeyer." Lucinda put her hands on her hips, surprised. "Look at you!" then she added with relish. "Although-"
"Ladies." James Potter interrupted them when he stopped in front of their desk, attempting to look cool as he handed them their assignment.
"Go away Potter." Lucinda rolled her eyes as he walked away to Sirius, grinning.
"He knows!" Harley whined.
"Shut up Harley," Lucinda sighed. "They're just trying to get a rise out of us. Or it's some stupid dare or something-" Her eyes fell on door that McGonagall had left open...
"Professor!" Lucinda stood up suddenly. "May I use the loo?"
McGonagall nodded quickly while trying to silence Potter and Black's chorus of 'can we join you?' in the background
Boys were such idiots.
As soon as she stepped out Lucinda hurriedly ran in the last direction she had seen Elvis Lockhart. He appeared when she rounded the corner, his wand clutched by his side looking around nervously.
What was he doing out of class? Perhaps he had a free period..but then why did he look so nervous? Lucinda wondered. She wasn't going to lie, she had barely noticed the 5th year until he had been pulled out by the Aurors regarding the death of Maya Hillbard the day before. Although it turned it was just a fluke, seeing as the girl had committed suicide, Lucinda still had a knack for intuition and something was telling her that there was something going on here...
It was then that Elvis took out something from his robes and Lucinda craned her neck to take a better look without exposing her hiding spot. Elvis tapped his wand with the book he had taken out, instantly it opened up the pages flipping demonically. Lucinda felt a chill pass her, like the book knew she was there and she stepped back getting the feeling that something was very wrong. She could feel the corridor get darker and Lucinda decided that perhaps it really was time to get back to class...
It was an unaware second year turning around the corner from the opposite end that made Elvis shut the book immediately taking away with it the dark ominous feeling in the corridor. Lucinda sighed and started walking forward, she might as well go to the loo since she was out here...
The second year Slytherin boy had just taken a step when Elvis shouted a spell and the second year fell face forward- blood gushing out of his mouth. Lucinda covered her mouth in surprise, her feet rooting in place as she watched Elvis darted forward furtively and began dragging the boy away- making sure to vanish the blood stains as he did. Elvis looked around suddenly to make sure no one had seen and Lucinda regaining the use of her legs quickly slid behind a wall- praying that he hadn't seen her. Her hands were shaking, she noticed and in a panic her wand slipped out of her hands onto the ground. In the empty- yet not so empty corridor the sound it made was increased ten-fold.
"Who's there?" Elvis's voice called out, slightly panicked. "I asked- who's there? Answer me!"
Lucinda was shaking, but determined she picked up her wand and slipped away as fast as she could- not stopping until she reached the Transfiguration classroom. Behind her she could hear footsteps- presumably Elvis's, but she didn't dare look back to find out. She ran fast- not being able to think straight at all and promptly collapsed as she entered the Transfiguration classroom- breathless.
"Ms. Gilmore!" Professor McGonagall shouted cooly as she dashed into the room. "Where have you been? I was beginning to think that I might need to transfigure you a map to find your way around."
Lucinda didn't answer, instead she located the biggest cauldron she could find and immediately threw up into it.
"To be a Knight is to be glorious." Lucius Malfoy finished, raising his glass and prompting the others in the room to do the same. The others were about a mixture 20 or so underclassmen, predominantly Slytherin with two from Ravenclaw and three from Gryffindor.
Gryffindor saint's huh? Severus rolled his eyes eyeing the three Gryffindors that sat together looking at Lucius admirably. Not everyone from Gryffindor is a hero, now are they Lily?
The mere utter of her name brought out memories relating to the redhead- memories that Severus had been elsewhere would have made him smile. Yet, underneath his dark curtain of her he allowed himself a small one. She was Lily Evans- the girl who had been friends with him since age 11, long before she had met Potter. Despite their different houses she sat with him during Potions where they talked endlessly about Dementors and Spinners End. Then they would walk to charms arguing about whether or not Petunia would be allowed to go to Hogwarts had she had magic in her, and spend the lazy Saturday evenings strolling around the Great Lake or throwing rocks into the small pond Lily had discovered- but as he replayed those memories over and over Severus hardened, because he knew- despite his want for Lily Evans, that change was coming.
"Snape."
And there was the face of change. The Head Boy slid into the seat opposite of him with casual elegance, eyeing him with his dark gray eyes. Severus played it cool, allowing himself to acknowledge the Head Boy's presence with a curt nod. He had always been wary of the Head boy since day one. Amongst all these purebloods Severus was the only half-blood, ranked only a little above the Ravenclaws and Gryffindors that were now part of the Knights of Walpurgis, and Lucius Malfoy had made sure that Severus remembered it.
"Severus." Lucius returned the nod with a small smirk. Severus waited for him to say the words. He waited for the Head Boy to feign innocence at how Severus managed to slither into the club or what nasty spell he had to hex Potter with in order to get in or Severus mentally growled- he would have to control his tongue if the Head boy dared to even mention Lily...
"I'm glad you're here."
Severus raised a brow at the head boy. "What- not surprised are you?" Lucius merely rose his glass to Severus who continued not quite believing Lucius. "I suppose after all since a few Gryffindors," Severus pointed out the small group "and Ravenclaws are here, a tainted Prince wouldn't hurt the mix because the Knights are quite- what was the word you used-ah yes diverse."
"My Severus- has someone never told you that you think too highly of yourself?"
Severus blinked- for a second confused, but nonetheless kept a relaxed composure as he faced Lucius. "Surely you didn't think that you would have gotten in for shooting one impressive hex at Potter, did you?"
Again Severus pretended to ignore Lucius and proceeded to sweep his eyes over the other Knights in the room. His eyes traveled over to the newly initiated fourth year Alcoste and Edmund, or Ed and Al as they were more commonly known, whispering in the corner probably discussing the best way to spike the punch. Troy Mulciber, one of the third years who had been recruited along with him and Jamal Masterson this evening was speaking to one of the older Slytherins, while two bystanders nearby eavesdropped into their conversation while looking like they were enjoying the scenery as much as Severus was.
"Well I hope you don't misunderstand Severus- we do value you." Lucius continued idly gathering Severus's attention once more.
Yeah right. Severus scoffed mentally. Value? What number had they put on Severus Snape the half-blood? Moreover Severus was sure he had only been recruited because he knew too much. But then again who didn't? There was a slim chance that you would meet anyone in Slytherin didn't have an inkling of what went on behind the heavy dungeon walls. Severus's mind wandered back to first year- how many first years had Lucius corrupted the first night with his welcoming speech? And then there was the matter of Aaron Vega who had mysteriously disappeared the first week of school after he had openly told them he wanted nothing to do with any of what Lucius was suggesting.
Severus spoke dryly. "Yes I suppose my spying on Emma Vanity had been really helpful. What did you find out about her?"
Lucius looked angry for a minute, before his features relaxed. "Being a Knight isn't the end Severus- it's the beginning of proving yourself worthy." He waved a hand around the room. "Why else do you think we'd let dolts like Ed and Al in? Surely if pranking was considered a skill don't you think Potter and Black would make the next cut?"
Severus's eyes flashed and Lucius smiled at the reaction. He had been expecting it, Severus realized. "Fear not Severus, I'm not saying you're completely useless now."
"Yes, my potion brewing must have impressed the elder students did it not?" Severus spoke in a monotone, as he often did when he was clearly not impressed. "Or perhaps you've realized that the Slug Club now has a new member."
"I distinctly remember the mudblood being mentioned on the guest list as well- but she's not here is she?" Lucius countered easily and Severus remained impassive as the mention of Lily Evans that he had been expecting came up eventually.
"What is it that you really want?" Severus was quick to cut to the chase. "You never approach me until there is a job you need to be done-like some nasty under dog."
"Now you know I value you much more than that Severus- you underestimate me."
"Likewise." Severus shot back, "I don't have time for trivial talk Lucius. Out with it."
"Pureblood upbringing does make a difference doesn't it?" Lucius muttered gazing at Severus. "No Pureblood would ever talk to me like that."
"Perhaps nobody but Ayesha Shafiq." Severus was quick to respond, he knew she was a sore spot for the Headboy. The Headboy was strong and powerful eliciting respect from even those older than him but the sixth year dimpled beauty had somehow decided that she wasn't one of them. It was amusing to watch to Severus who had been the underdog for too long.
Lucius pretended to not hear Severus's comment and continued. "But since you've kindly offered Severus there is something of importance that I would like you to do."
Severus waited. Lucius's eyes traveled around the room to Troy Mulciber who was in deep conversation with the Quidditch captain from earlier. "Now that all the new recruits have gotten their tasks I shouldn't hold you to yours much longer."
At this Severus stood up straighter in his seat. Lucius hadn't been kidding. Severus was being given a chance to prove himself. At once he slumped back, making sure not to look to eager- as he waited with anticipation to see what task had been given to him. And then he remembered with a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach..Lily. From what Severus had been able to extract from the older knights- the tasks were designed to see how loyal they were to the cause and it prayed on their deepest fears and insecurities so that only those with determination and absolute loyalty would move forward. And although Severus had been careful to reveal his weaknesses and fears anyone could see what Lily Evans was to him...
"I'm entrusting you with this task because it is a delicate matter, Severus- do not take it lightly." Lucius warned.
Severus was only moments away from pulling on the Pureblood's blond ponytail if he kept the suspense from him any longer.
"You'll be trailing a possible recruit for next year, making sure to keep an eye out on his goings and doings and making sure that he is indeed a worthy candidate for the higher power."
Severus wasn't impressed. After all how could spying on a person prove loyalty? Perhaps they wanted to see how far Severus would go to prove himself loyal- how close was this person to Severus? Severus grimaced for a moment thinking about Lucius's mention of Potter earlier. Did they want him to recruit Potter to the Knights by pretending to be his friend. Severus mentally threw up- they wouldn't dare. If this was Lucius's way of embarrassing him...
"Who?" He asked finally surveying the rest of the Knights and wondering what kinds of tasks they had been given.
"Regulus Black- and before you head back to the common room you should know he's currently in the infirmary," Severus looked up interested. "and you need to find out why."
Reviews are always welcome!