27th of June 1995

Another summer day passed, and the colours of dusk took over the sky. Three days have passed since Sirius, and Buckbeak joined Remus in his York cottage. They still haven't got any letter, or instructions of any kind from Dumbledore. Sirius was more tense with every day passing by. Remus was just becoming more silent, losing himself in his thoughts far too often. In fact, they haven't talked much at all. Remus sent owls to other Order members, informing them of recent events. All of them replied with a short answer, ready to join the Order once more.

Sirius and Remus were sitting on the porch steps, and talked about their Hogwarts mischiefs, and pranks. However, they didn't mention the worst prank Sirius ever made. The one that made the first cut in their friendship. The one that almost cost Severus Snape his life. Both Sirius, and Remus, could thank James Potter for saving Snape. Remus did, while Sirius was too proud to admit that he went too far. It was the first time that James and Sirius haven't talked for a few days, and the only time Remus doubted that their friendship will stay the same.

"You know, I never understood how Dumbledore hasn't discovered what we were doing every full moon," Sirius said, taking a sip from his glass, filled with firewhiskey.

"Well, you don't know how many times I thought about coming clean. But I couldn't, I still feel bad about playing with the trust that man gave me," Remus said calmly, guilt taking over his face expression.

"Nah, we were young, Moony. He would understand, even if you told him. Although, I guess he would lecture James, Peter and me into oblivion. And he would most likely tell McGonagall, which would make things harder for us," Sirius was always trying to justify their actions. His main argument was that they didn't do anyone any harm by becoming animagi. Remus burst into laughter.

"I can imagine McGonagall angry, but still proud. She always encouraged both you and James to do more, and I guess she knew that Peter would follow," he said, with his smile vanishing from his face. They sat in silence for a while, both of them feeling nostalgic.

"Moony… I've been thinking. It may be a bit stretched, but I think I know where the Order's headquarters could be," Sirius said more quietly, like he's not sure in his idea. That wasn't his usual behaviour. Usually, he was self-assured, and that prevented him to forsee the flaws in his plans, and ideas.

"I'm listening," Remus said, waiting to hear Sirius' idea.

"Grimmauld place," Sirius said, and downed his drink. "No one is using it, it has shitload of ancient defensive charms on, and I'm the only owner."

"And you would enjoy knowing you are fighting your family once again. It's not a bad idea, not bad at all. You should suggest that to Dumbledore," Remus was quite impressed with this idea. He was in that house once, and Walburga Black practically kicked him out when she figured who he is. Remus didn't like the house's residents, but he couldn't deny that the house was indeed beautiful. Of course, after you remove most of the decorations, those were just gruesome. However, Sirius was a bit surprised with the positivity of his friend's reaction

"You think so? Really?" he asked his oldest friend, still needed some reassuring.

"Yes, I do. Why are you so surprised?"

At that moment, they heard a somewhat loud crack. Area around the cottage was protected, but they needed to be extra cautious. Remus took out his wand, and Sirius took his dog form. It was safer that way. They waited, staring at the forest, awaiting someone to come out of there. They were immediately relieved when the figure presented himself. It was Dumbledore himself, accompanied by Mad-Eye Moody.

"Well, it seems that you don't have to wait any longer, Padfoot," Remus said, putting his wand away. Sirius turned back into a man, as Dumbledore and Mad-Eye approached them.

"Good evening, Remus, Sirius," Dumbledore said calmly. "I almost forgot how peaceful it is over here." Both Sirius and Remus nodded, greeting their guests.

"I assume it's safer for us to talk inside, if you don't mind," Dumbledore said, looking at Remus.

"Oh, of course. Come in," Remus said, and opened the cottage's door, allowing Dumbledore, Moody, and Sirius to enter before him. He threw a glance at the forest again. He sensed nothing, so it should be safe to talk. The four men now stood at the cottage, and only Dumbledore looked amused.

"I'm sure Sirius told you what happened, Remus?" Dumbledore asked, and Remus nodded again.

"How's Harry?" Sirius couldn't control himself, he needed to know what happened since he left.

"Harry is alright, and he will stay that way. He will stay at his aunt's for a while. And I expect both of you to appreciate that decision. As we all know, Harry is safe there, and we need all the time possible," Dumbledore said, leaving no place for any arguments. Moody still hasn't said one word since they came there.

"Can I offer you something? Maybe a drink?" Remus asked politely, a bit puzzled with everything that was happening.

"I would love to, but I'm afraid Alastor and I don't have much time. I hoped it would never come to this, but we must restore the Order. I believe you already assumed it will happen soon. Did you do what I asked you to?" Dumbledore's voice was subtle, silent and calm. He pierced both Remus and Sirius through his spectacles, waiting for their response.

"Yes, we did. I sent the notices to the old Order's members. All of them replied, ready to hear what our next step will be." Remus said, preventing his voice from cracking. Dumbledore was too calm, and it scared him a bit.

"Well, we still have to discuss where will we meet. When Albus and I figure that out, you will be notified," Moody said resolutely. It was his standard way of talking.

"I might have the solution for that problem…" Sirius said, and looked at Dumbledore, whose eyebrows flinched, and without a word he waited for Sirius to share his idea. "You see, I inherited my family's old house. Number 12 Grimmauld Place. It's well protected, my father made sure of that. And it's ancient… At this moment I'm the only person who can enter that house, so it's safe from my other, lovely family members."

Dumbledore looked at him, and his face looked amused. He knew that ancient families like the Blacks had really powerful charms protecting their property. Moody waited for Dumbledore to say something, and Remus looked at Sirius' frozen face.

"Aah… I really appreciate the offer, Sirius. I think it could work. But I will, once again, ask a favour from the two of you. As I said earlier, Alastor and myself have other engagements, and we must see to them. May I ask you to check the house for me? I know Remus is more than capable to recognize anything odd, dark or not fitting. If the house is safe, I don't see a reason not to use it," Dumbledore was pleased, and Remus and Sirius were relieved at once.

"Of course, we'll do it first thing tomorrow," Remus said, and looked at Sirius who was nodding in agreement.

"Thank you. I know this is hard for both of you, but I assure you; Harry will be safe. Alastor and I talked about putting the guard on his aunt's house, just so we don't miss anything," Moody grunted, confirming Dumbledore's words.

"Great, I'll do it," Sirius said, eagerly and thoughtless.

"I'm afraid I can't allow that, Black," Moody said sharply. "The Aurors will monitor Harry too, not all the time, but they will. Fudge is in denial, and he would like the chance to present Harry, and Albus as nutters. After Harry's safety, our main priority is keeping you away from getting caught, killed, or in Azkaban again. No discussion!" Moody now raised his voice, because Sirius' mouth moved, but he decided not to say anything. Moody was right, and as Gwen said before, he can't help Harry if he's in Azkaban.

"I'll do it," Remus said, firstly looking at Sirius, then at Moody and Dumbledore.

"I am counting on that, Remus," Dumbledore said, and his eyes sparkled under the half-moon spectacles. "But I'm afraid that it's our time to go. I am thankful for all your help, and I expect the report about the house tomorrow then. I wish you good night, and I hope both of you will get some sleep."

Moody and Dumbledore turned, and Dumbledore exited the cottage first. Moody suddenly stopped right in front of the doorstep.

"Oh, I almost forgot," he started rummaging his pockets. "Ah, here it is. Think fast, Black," Moody said, and threw a wand right in the Sirius' hands. His wand. The one Aurors took on the day he was arrested. He was surprised, never expected to see it again.

"Thank your cousin for that when you see her. I assume she will be eager to tell you herself, though, at the first meeting," Moody said briefly, and grinned.

"Wait, you mean Nymphie is in the order too?" Sirius was ecstatic hearing Moody's words.

"I'm not training brainless, good for nothing sods, of course she joined. And I think she will be thrilled when she hears that nickname! Don't forget, lads, constant vigilance," Moody said with a smirk, and left.

Right after the doors closed, Sirius started laughing out loud. Remus was confused by this, looking at him suspiciously.

"Pardon me, have you lost your plot? What's so funny?" Remus asked, while Sirius was trying to catch his breath.

"Moony… This is mental as fuck. The Order at Grimmaulds, and Nymphie is a part of it," his bark like laughter filled the room again. Remus still wasn't sure what's so funny, but the scene in front of him made him laugh too.

They talked about what possibly could they find at 12 Grimmauld Place until midnight. Sirius was apparently amused, or at least he wanted it to look like he was. Remus knew better, he knew that's Sirius' way of dealing with stress, and being worried. He would always try to laugh it off, until it felt better. Tiredness finally came over them both around midnight, and they went to sleep.

Remus was the first one who woke up in the morning. He decided to take a shower, and make some breakfast because God know Sirius won't do that. Sirius was really, really bad at anything cooking related. Just like every Black. When Remus got out of the bathroom, Sirius was still sleeping in his dog form. His head dangled from the armchair, and Remus sneered at that scene. Remus started making some eggs and toasts. It wasn't much, but it will be enough for now. The smell of eggs frying in the pan woke Sirius up, and he turned to a man now.

"Morning, Moony," he said and jawned, stretching his arms, and legs.

"Good morning to you too, Padfoot," Remus said. "Always right on the breakfast. Some things never change."

"I was always right on time, don't mock me," Remus said, and served himself food Remus made.

They ate, and discussed how will they do their trip. They decided to travel by the apparition. It was the fastest, and the safest way for now. Sirius, of course, had to take his dog form. Both of them were nervous, but they believed each other. Somehow, they both felt just like before, when they were at Hogwarts, planning their next adventure with James. And Peter. Remus tried to avoid mentioning him, still angry and bitter about all that Peter Pettigrew has done. Sirius didn't mind. Every time they mentioned him, Sirius would yell "Fuck Peter Pettigrew!" like those words could hurt Peter, even though he can't even hear them. It was his way of dealing with the frustration built inside of him.

Remus now stood in a place that should be in front of 12 Grimmaulds Place. He was anxious and nervous, but managed to hide it. Sirius was sitting on the concrete, right by his left side. He tapped the concrete with his front paws a few times, let out a squeal, and looked at Remus. Number 12 Grimmauld Place was now standing in front of them, hidden from the looks of the others, and Remus stared helplessly. Sirius was staring too, with all the bad memories that house held flowing through his mind.

"Let's go, you go first," Remus said, and let Sirius in front of him. The doors had no door knob, just that ugly serpent knocker. Remus tapped the door with his wand, carefully. The door opened, and Sirius got in the house first. Remus closed the door.

"Stay put, don't do anything yet," Remus said, and flicked his wand. "Homenum Revelio." Nothing happened. They were alone in that dingy, derelict building. Sirius turned into a man, pulling his wand out, just in case. Remus flicked his wand a few more times, but said no words. Jets of bright yellow, blue and orange flew from the tip of his wand, but nothing happened. It was safe.

"Well, apart from doxies, boggarts, and some other creatures, I guess we're alone," he was interrupted by a loud shriek.

"HOW DARE YOU ENTER HERE? BLOOD TRAITOR! HALF-BREED!" Walburga Black's portrait screamed. Sirius rolled his eyes, knowing exactly where the portrait is.

"NICE TO SEE YOU, MOTHER! IT'S BEEN ALMOST TWENTY YEARS, AND YOU ARE STILL YELLING LIKE THAT!" he yelled in the direction of the portrait. "Help me with that, would you?" he said, leading the way. They managed to draw the curtains over the portrait, and once Walburga was silent Sirius started to laugh.

"I can't believe that I'm back at this horrible place. If I could, I would burn it to the ground, leaving nothing out of it. And would probably piss on the ashes. But, this is the safest place for the headquarters," he took a deep breath, and the stench of the house made his face turn into a grimace.

"Let's check it out. It needs to be thoroughly cleaned, but I guess we could work it out," Remus said, his wand still in his hands. They did a quick tour around the house. Remus noticed Sirius' eyes getting wet when they opened his boyhood room. He didn't know what to say, so he just patted his friend's shoulder, leading him out of that room. Objects and pictures in the room held too many memories. They were good before, but now… It just felt wrong.

Doxies, boggarts, unusually big spiders… Everything Remus expected to find occupied the house, so he wasn't worried. With some help, they could clean it in a couple of weeks. They sat in the dining room, the one that became the main meeting place for the order. Sirius brought out some old, and really pricey firewhiskey from the cellar. His father loved good firewhiskey, and he had the money to buy whatever he pleased, so he filled the cellar with expensive wines for Walburga, and firewhiskeys for himself.

They were now drinking from crystal glasses, and Sirius remembered that those were his father's favourite. Suddenly, he wanted to smash them all. But he didn't.

"You know," Remus said silently, downing his third glass. "After you've been sentenced, Dumbledore sent me to pick up your belongings. Everything that was in that house your uncle Alphard gave you…"

"Uh-oh. He didn't give me the house. I only bought it with his money," he grinned.

"Well, yes. Anyway… I guess you would like your things back now."

"What do you mean?" Sirius asked confused. Actually, he did want his old things back. Mostly his flying motorbike, but he knew that's not possible. He couldn't use it anyway.

"Well, you will stay here, right? It's safe for you, whether you like it or not," Remus stated, and Sirius knew he was right.

"I guess… I never thought I'll be back. I thought I left this place forever, but now…" Sirius looked around. "It never felt like home, always like a prison. At least that's what I thought when I was little…" he downed his glass, pouring more liquor to both of them. "Even though, my mother knew how to make me feel terrible, and she did that easier than the Dementors. Can you imagine that?"

"No, I can't…" Remus felt bad. He was never in a presence of a Dementor for more than a few seconds, or minutes. He couldn't even dare to imagine what would happened to him, if he was the one who spent twelve years in Azkaban. "How did you do it, Padfoot?"

Sirius smiled, both not like he's amused.

"I wasn't guilty enough for them to destroy me. I am guilty of many things, but I guess none of them was enough for the Dementors. You know Bella's there too? She would scream that the Dark Lord will rise again. Well, she was always mental, but she sounded more sane there than ever. I guess because she didn't feel guilty at all. And I wasn't guilty of anything that Dementors could use, I guess. Except Peter… Fuck Peter Pettigrew!" he said, and clanked his glass at Remus'. They both downed their drinks again.

"You know, while I was there… I resented myself a lot of things," Sirius said, staring at his now empty glass. "But do you know what I resent to myself the most?"

Remus didn't want to ask. Well, he did, but he was afraid of the answer. The talk they had been postponed since last year caught them, and they couldn't avoid it anymore.

"I should never doubt you, Moony… Remus. I know the words now mean nothing, but I really am sorry," Sirius said, now staring at his friend. Remus looked at him too, and noticed that his grey fathomless eyes still got some spark in them.

"I just want to know why? Why would you ever think I would harm them? Why would you think I would betray them?" Remus asked, lifting himself up from the seat. He couldn't sit anymore, he was too nervous and twitchy. And Sirius' closeness bothered him at this moment. He wanted some space.

"I just… I'm ashamed of the words I'll say now, but they are the sad truth, and you deserve it. I thought that maybe you got into that underground werewolf lifestyle…"

"YOU WHAT?" Lupin yelled, clenching both of his fists. All the anger. All the pain. All that sat on his heart like a burden for the last fourteen years. With hearing those words… He just couldn't handle it anymore, he couldn't keep it in anymore.

"Moony, please… Calm down…"

"AFTER EVERYTHING YOU'VE SEEN… AFTER YOU'VE SEEN BITING PIECES OF MY OWN FLESH RATHER THAN DOING ANYTHING ELSE… AFTER ALL THOSE NIGHTS WE… YOU, ME, JAMES AND PETER…" Remus yelled, and he threw his glass in the wall right behind Sirius' head. "ME LIVING LIKE THEM? ARE YOU COMPLETELY DERANGED?"

Sirius never saw Remus like that. Not even after that Snape prank. He was scared now, because he felt that the truth he was holding for so long might ruin their friendship forever. He didn't want that, but he couldn't blame Remus if he did.

"HOW COULD YOU EVEN THINK I WOULD EVER TURN SIDES? I WOULD NEVER, NEVER DO THAT. YOU KNEW ME BETTER THAN THAT. YOU KNOW ME BETTER THAN THAT. OR MAYBE YOU DON'T BECAUSE IF YOU DID, YOU WOULD NEVER QUESTION MY MOTIVES," he was now charging straight at Sirius, and Sirius stood up. If Remus has the urge to beat him up, he'll let him do that. He understood his anger, and he was ashamed. Really ashamed.

"I know, I know all of that now… I wasn't thinking str…" Sirius was interrupted by Remus grabbing the front of his shirt, lifting him and pushing him into the wall.

"HOW COULD YOU, SIRIUS? WHY? AS FAR AS I KNOW, I NEVER DID ANYTHING THAT GAVE YOU ANY REASON TO DOUBT ME. WHAT DID I DO? ANSWER ME, SIRIUS," he shook Sirius, like Sirius was made of thin paper, and he smashed him into the wall again. "GIVE ME A REASON. ANYTHING. I DON'T WANT TO HEAR YOU ARE SORRY. I WANT EXPLANATION!"

"Well, I don't have it!" Sirius yelled back, right at Remus' face. And Remus let go of him with a loud groan, walking away on the other side of the room without a word, fuming.

"What do you want me to say, Moony, hm? I was trying to do the best thing. You were away with them all the time… You think it never crossed my mind how you cried all those nights before the full moon when we were children? You think it never crossed my mind how many times we slept in the hospital wing after the full moon, after bringing you there covered with your, and ours blood? You think it never crossed your mind that it was my mistake that led to James and Lily's death? They chose me, and I CHOSE PETER FUCKING PETTIGREW! Do you know how many times I thought how maybe you should be the secret keeper for them?"

"MAYBE I SHOULD HAVE BEEN! I WOULD'VE DIED FOR BOTH OF THEM, AND IF I HAVE TO I WILL DIE TO PROTECT HARRY! I HAVE NOTHING TO LOSE ANYWAY, VOLDEMORT WOULD KILL ME AND THEY WOULD STILL BE SAFE!" Remus was trembling, his nerves pulsing, and blood rushing through his veins.

"I KNOW AND I HATE MYSELF FOR DOING WHAT I DID, OKAY?" Sirius yelled, and collapsed on the chair nearby. His head was now in his hands, desperate to find reason in all that happened. Remus looked at his friend, and sat on the other side of the table, still nervous, but somehow he felt sorry for seeing Sirius like that. He felt the guilt Sirius' was feeling

"Do you know what made it worse? Last year. Last year in the Shrieking Shack when you mindlessly believed me, took my side, and until you turned… The last thought I had when the Dementors came… I just hoped that Harry will be okay, and I knew he would be because your heart is still as golden as it was the first day we stepped into that bloody castle," Sirius lifted his head, and looked at Remus on the other side of the room, and the table. "Nothing I can do could ever set this right, Moony. I know that now. I've had twelve years to think about all the things that happened. Yell at me, beat me to death… I don't care. I just want Harry safe, and for you to know how deeply sorry I am for ever doubting you. I hope you will at least try to forgive me for that, because I know I will never forgive myself."

Remus stared at him. This was the first time Sirius was so honest, and self-aware. He couldn't deny that Azkaban changed him. In a way Remus never thought it's possible.

"You know that night when James saved Snape? You were still gone, and he was furious at me. Peter was asking us to stop yelling, but he yelled at me just like you did now. Even worse. I will never forget what he said to me… That you're our friend, and that I'm plain stupid to ever compromise you to anyone. And that he is disappointed, because he thought I understood how bad you would feel if anything wrong happened. The only reason we became animagi was to keep you safe. It was the only time I was really afraid for our friendship. Because of you."

"What's your point, Sirius?" Remus felt like Sirius is picking at the fresh wound.

"My point is… James saw all the things I forgot fourteen years ago. Lily and him… they even suggested you, after I turned down their offer. But, I convinced them that Peter is a better choice. Once again, I was terribly wrong," Sirius' eyes filled with tears.

Remus said nothing. The words felt like knives, piercing his abdomen and turning his guts inside out. Lily and James wanted him to be their secret keeper…

"I was the biggest fool on this world to ever doubt you, Moony… As you said almost every day at Hogwarts, my rash actions get the best of me… And then, they got the best of me, and the best of us all too."

"You shouldn't blame yourself for their deaths…" Remus said silently. He knew Sirius is hurt, and he didn't want to hurt him even more. But he needed answers.

"Why shouldn't I, hm?"

They both stayed silent, and that lasted a couple of minutes. They drank some more firewhiskey, to ease the nerves.

"Why didn't you contact Harry? Not once, Remus? I understand you wanted to keep your distance, but I don't understand that you never even tried to get in touch with him," Sirius was now catching in the dark. He wasn't sure that Remus haven't contacted Harry, he just assumed.

"What good would he have with me in his life, hm?" Remus said, staring at the empty glass. They were still parted by the length of the table.

"Support? Someone who knew his parents? Someone to talk to? Come on, Remus, he was eager to live with me when he knew me for about a half an hour straight. He's miserable there, and I don't even want to know how his childhood looked like." Sirius could understand Remus' trying to stay physically away, but he couldn't understand not even writing him one letter.

"I was a mess, Sirius… I wasn't capable of living. I was lost, travelled a lot, tried to find a purpose to live… I thought about ending it all, but I couldn't. You know why? Because it would be so disrespectful to Lily and James who wanted to live, but that right was taken away from them. I would only make things worse for Harry… Just like I did last year."

"Stop pitying yourself, Remus. You're more than your lycanthropy. I said it once, at I stand by those words. You're more of a man than any of us," Sirius said, pouring himself another glass of liquor, and levitating the bottle right in front of Remus, who poured himself another glass too.

"Well, it is what it is, Sirius. I am sorry for not contacting Harry, but I still think he was better off without me. Just like everyone else," Remus said, and put down the bottle. Alcohol that was now boiling inside of him allowed him to say even more than he wanted to.

"Hah! No, we aren't. Don't be so thick. After you left for the undergrounds, everything fell apart. I'm sorry that our last conversation then ended like it did," Sirius said with regret filling his words. He really was sorry.

"You mean, you punching me straight in the face?"

"You still owe me that one."

"No I don't. Maybe I can't find a reason in your actions, but I do understand you didn't mean any harm. I'm just still bitter, I guess…" Remus said, and downed his drink. Sirius still hadn't touched his.

"You have every reason to be… I still don't understand why did you believe me without any proof? You believed me over Peter, and you had every reason to do just the opposite." Just like Remus wanted answers, Sirius did too. Maybe he just needed a closure, something to ease his soul, and feel better even for a moment. He downed his drink, slamming the glass on the table.

"The map. We maybe doubted ourselves, but no one can deny that what we did was perfect," Remus said strongly, and proudly. The map really was a success. The one they celebrated for three weeks.

"That old piece of ancient history?"

"Sirius… It never lies. I made sure of that. The moment I saw Peter's name on it… I knew. Don't ask me why or how, I just did. Why do you think I never told Dumbledore about you being an animagus? Even after everything, I couldn't believe you would really betray James and Lily. The fact that Peter was alive was the proof of what did happen, and what never did." Remus was now with the tears in his eyes. Even after all this time, he wasn't ashamed of his tears around Sirius. Just like he never was. Sirius looked him, and felt his heart breaking even more. He felt like the biggest idiot in the world. He stood up, and slammed his fist into the wall, yelling every curse word he could remember.

"I'm sorry, Moony, what more can I say?" he said, and reduced the distance between them. He was still a couple of feet away from Remus, who flinched.

"I know, Padfoot, I know you are. But I can't say anything to make you feel any better…" He said, lounging in his chair, crossing his arms on his chest.

"So what now, hm? I fucked up, alright, I know that. But if we're in this shit together, we mustn't doubt each other. I learned my lesson, Moony. I can't change what happened, even though I want that more than anything, but I can promise you it will never happen again. Want me to take the Unbreakable Vow? I will gladly do that if that would make you feel better. I was a fool, and unfortunately everybody paid the price for my foolishness."

Remus stared at Sirius. His jaw clenched, and he took a deep breath.

"You will always be my family, Sirius. My brother," he stood up, and walked straight to Sirius, hugging him. This time it wasn't an awkward hug. The tension between them was still there, but it was nothing like before. "And our other brother needs us now. James needs us to protect Harry. And if we're going to do that, we must leave past in the past."

"But Peter is not a brother of ours, alright? You know why?" Sirius said, and poured them another glass of liquor. He handed Remus one, and took the other.

"Because fuck Peter Pettigrew," Remus said, and they cheered for that.

"Wow, this made me realise something. I was a shitty brother to Regulus, and to you, obviously. If anything, I'm consistent in being shitty," Sirius said, and Remus looked at him for a second or two. Then they both burst into laughter.

"I missed you, Sirius, I really did…" Remus said still smiling, taking small breaths.

"I'm a prat, but I've always been a loveable one," Sirius said, glad to hear Remus laughing. Remus' yelling always terrified him because that meant that something is terribly wrong. He expected him to yell, but he couldn't help himself. "I have only one more question. I know you probably didn't want to see me, but I've been there for twelve years. Why didn't you come to visit me?"

"I couldn't. I wanted to… But I couldn't. Can't explain why." Remus said quietly, and Sirius decided to drop the topic.

"Alright then. Well, I really hope you are getting used to seeing me around, because I really hope you do understand you're gonna live here with me."

Remus raised his eyebrows in disbelief.

"What are you talking about, Sirius?"

"You are not going back into that cottage. It has a potential to become a nice place for a holiday, or maybe a romantic get away, if you maybe got yourself a lady, but you'll be living here from now on. Capisce?" Sirius was determined now. He never offered any help to Remus, because he knew he would refuse. But now, he wasn't giving him any choice. He had to accept. "And, to be honest, I would really hate to be alone in here. Too silent…"

"Yes, you know me. A real ladies man," Remus said sarcastically. "I guess we could do more together than apart."

"Yes!" Sirius claimed his victory, putting his both fists up in the air with some cheery movements.

"Although, we must contact Dumbledore first. I guess he will want to put some other enchantments. Maybe a Fidelius Charm?"

"Fine with me, but I won't be a secret keeper, and I don't want anything to do with picking one," Sirius said sharply, and took another look around the room. "I guess this will be my new prison. And I'm getting a werewolf roomate."

"Oh, I'm sorry if my furry little problem bothers you now. I guess the Dementors were better company than me," Remus mocked him, but he knew Sirius won't get mad.

"Furry little problem. Haven't heard that in a while. And, you at least talk, those Dementors are boring as fuck," Sirius let out another bark like laugh.

They left the house at once, and sent the letter to Dumbledore. He was delighted to hear the news, and he liked the idea of the two of them being there permanently. Sirius needed to be watched over. Even though he was a man, his mind was still too rash, too boyish. They met in the afternoon, and Dumbledore became the Secret Keeper. Both Remus and Sirius agreed with that, knowing that the secret really was safe this time. Moody put some more security enchantments, muttering to himself how you can't be too cautious about anything.

And just like that, in one day, the Order of the Pheonix got the new Headquarters, and Remus and Sirius were reunited again under the same roof. Moody volunteered to be the one to break the news to other Order members. They even set the date of the first meeting, July 10th. He left Tonks last on purpose, because he wanted to talk with her once more before she joins this mess. Even though he was showing no emotions, he cared about Tonks, and didn't want her to do anything rash. However, Tonks assured her old mentor that she understands all the risks, and that she really wants to join. Moody was happy to hear that, and Tonks was even more excited. It all became real when Moody came, and talked to her. And that made her want to be a part of it even more. She was so excited, and impatient. She just couldn't wait for the first meeting.

10th of July 1995

And the day finally came. Tonks held a piece of paper that said: The Headquarters of the Order of the Pheonix may be found at number twelve Grimmauld Place. London. Easy enough. Mad-Eye warned her that the door has no knob, or handle, and that she just needs to tap it with her wand. She could do that. Tonks was nervous, and excited. The meeting was set at 6pm, and Moody told her that Molly Weasley will make a dinner for all of them, and that she could stay if she wanted to. She knew she will because she could never refuse Molly's food.

She took a shower before, and didn't know what to wear. She wanted to look serious, but not stuck up. Her hair will definitely be pink tonight, it gave her extra confidence boost. It was almost time to go, and she was still indecisive about her clothing. The decision fell on yellow summer dress with little flowers, leather jacket, bunch of necklaces, and her combat boots, of course. Before she left, she looked at herself once again in the mirror, and was pleased with the way she looked. She apparated just around the corner of her building, and found herself in front of the Headquarters.

She was a bit confused with the look of the building, and the concealment charm. She burned the piece of paper Moody gave her, took a deep breath, and tapped the door with her wand. "You can do it! You're not even late. Just try not to make a fool out of yourself. Don't trip over anything!" The thoughts were buzzing inside of her head, as she entered the house. She closed the door, and looked around. She saw the light at the end of the hallway, and heard people talking. Someone laughed really hard, and sounded like a dog. "Maybe that's Sirius Black!" Tonks thought, and started moving in that direction. "You got this, you got this," she repeated the mantra to herself. Just a few more steps… Damn it! One of her boots tangled in the ancient rug that covered the floor, and she tripped over the most hideous umbrella stand she'd ever see.

But she didn't fall face flat on the floor. Instead, her head was buried in something soft. Wool? Who the hell wears wool around here? Chocolate, green tea, and old books? She felt someone's palm circling her wrist, and the other hand on her back.

"I got you," she heard the words said by silent husky voice, and looked up. Her eyes met Remus Lupin's, and he helped her straighten up. She felt her cheeks burning. Was she blushing? "Uh-oh, not today," she thought, and morphed the blush out of her face, still staring at Remus' face, and his scars.

"Thank you, I'm… Catastrophe on two feet? That's what Moody said to me the first day of my Auror training," she smiled shyly, her lame joke might make her feel a bit less embarrassed. Remus smiled at her lightly, and held out his arm.

"I'm Remus Lupin, a bit chaotic myself, too," he accepted her joke, and she accepted his hand.

"Tonks, nice to meet you," she smiled at him, as they shook hands. "What is this place?"

"Ah, I guess you don't really know your mother's side of the family," he smirked. "It is, well it was, the residence of the Black family, Sirius' parents. He owns it now, and well…"

He was interrupted by Moody, standing at the dining room's entrance.

"I heard something tumbling, I instantly knew that was you," his real eye looked straight at Tonks, and the magical one looked at Remus. "Nice to see you, lass. Now move it, Dumbledore will be here any minute, and the meeting is starting." Moody said, and moved from the entrance, inviting Tonks in. She looked at Remus, who was chuckling.

"After you," he said, and followed her.

The room was fairly occupied. She noticed Molly Weasley charming some dishes, and Arthur Weasley stealing some pastries behind her back. She went to greet Molly, who was delighted to see her. She informed her that Bill and Charlie will not be coming tonight. Then she listed all the Order's members who were present: Dedalus Diggle, Emmeline Vance, Remus Lupin, Sturgis Podmore, Hestia Jones, Sirius Black, Moody, Kingsley Shacklebolt, and of course, Dumbledore, whose arrival they all expected. She noticed Remus sitting right from the front of the table, and the spot on the front was empty. She didn't notice anyone who could be Sirius Black. Kingsley gave her a small nod, and continued talking with Moody, Podmore, and Diggle. She noticed Hestia Jones talking to Emmeline Vance. They were all normal, and she felt just like in the Aurors Office.

"I like to observe things from the distance first, too," Tonks jumped at the sound of the voice that came behind her. Sirius sneaked on her coming from the kitchen. She turned, and was now face to face with the man whose face was literally everywhere. Sirius Black.

"Oh my… Sirius Black. You scared the shit out of me," she tried to act cool. He wasn't a murderer, or mental, so why should she be afraid of him? And he was once her mother's favourite cousin.

"Hah! I can see Andy's temper in you. Kingsley told me he told you about…well, me" Sirius said, putting his hands on his hips, looking really haughty.

"He did. Even though, I figured some parts of it by myself," she bragged a bit, but she really was proud of herself for figuring it all out.

"Smart girl! And thank you for getting my wand. You owe me the whole story when this meeting is over." Sirius said, and smiled at Tonks, who now had her mischievous grin on, proud of herself for stealing from the Ministry. "So, have you picked the place to sit, or may I invite you to sit by my left? You can see old Moony took the right side." Tonks was surprised with the nickname, but she knew exactly who Sirius was talking about.

"Ummm…" she looked at Remus fiddling with his glass, now engaged in the conversation with Moody who was sitting to his right. "Sure!" She said before she even thought twice. She felt pulled, like a magnet. The feeling made her nervous, so she started to bite her lower lip. Sirius ignored that, and said.

"Well, come then."

They walked across the dining room, and she placed herself on the chair that was meant for her. Sirius will be on her right, Kingsley on her left, and Remus… What was so special about that man? She felt tempted to study every bit of his face, he felt familiar, yet mysterious. She touched her wrist, the one he touched, without even realising it. Her thoughts were interrupted with Albus Dumbledore entering the room, and Severus Snape was right behind him. She flinched, and didn't notice that Sirius indeed noticed her looking at Remus. But when Sirius noticed Snape, he muttered something that apparently only Remus could understand, and hear because he suppressed his laughter so obviously.

"Good evening, my dear Order," Dumbledore said, taking his place on the other end of the table. Snape took the place on his right, and Tonks was happy that she didn't sit with Emmeline and Hestia because then Snape would be too close. She didn't like him, he was too stuck up, and no fun at all. "I see our new members are here as well. I guess you all met Hestia," Hestia Jones nodded, and smiled stiffly. "And if your eyes is working properly, you must've at least notice Nymphadora," Tonks flinched at the sound of her name. She felt so embarrassed, but managed to smile, and nod. She noticed Remus smiling at her, but she lowered her look, and started to fidget with her sleeves. If anyone else said here name, and introduced her like that, she would protest so loudly.

"Now, I would like to open this meeting. Severus here took the liberty of planning Harry's guard, so I will give my word to him," Dumbledore sat, and Snape was now standing. While he presented the schedule of Harry's guard, Sirius whispered to Tonks.

"I'm kind of glad to be stuck in here just because Snape can't order me around."

Tonks choked from suppressing her laughter, accidentally kicking Remus in the shins with her boot. He turned to her, and she mouthed the apology. Of course she's just done that. Snape finished what he had to say, and Tonks noticed Remus being nervous. Snape didn't put him on the schedule, and he wasn't pleased with it, but Tonks didn't know that.

"Thank you Severus," Dumbledore said. "If I'm not wrong Alastor made a list of all those who could help Voldemort, or do his bidding," Tonks noticed both of the Weasleys flinch hard on the sound of Voldemort's name. Charlie had the same reaction. Of course, Tonks knew about Molly's brothers, and she understood their reaction. "And Severus here paired you all up. It's not wise to do anything alone now. When you have a guard duty, Arabella will help you, and that's the only exception. I hope that soon enough, we will have the schedule for monitoring the Death Eaters. Alastor, Severus, can I count on you?"

Both men nodded silently, and the meeting went on. Moody was just giving his thorough report about the potential Death Eaters, but Tonks couldn't concentrate. She wanted to know with whom is she paired. Charlie was in Romania, and Bill was still working at Gringotts, so she eliminated them both from her mental possibility list. Sirius was obviously not coming out of the house. She thought and thought… If she had to pick someone it would be Remus. Wait, what? Her own mind surprised her. And again, she didn't notice that she was eyeing him all the time…

Remus was, however, carefully listening to Moody's words. But his look wasn't fixed. From time to time, when Tonks was staring at her sleeves in her lap, he would take a small glance at her. She looked so fresh, and she radiated… When he looked at her, he would feel so warm. She felt so familiar, and yet they just really met. He was too surprised by his actions, but decided to act tough. He decided in his head that it must be because the full moon is in two days, so his mind or his body aren't working like usual.

The meeting wasn't long, more like planning what to do. Molly made a dinner, and all of the Order, except Snape, stayed to eat the delicious meal. Kingsley introduced Tonks properly to Dedalus Diggle, and Emmeline Vance. Tonks small talked with almost everyone after the dinner, and she felt so much better. The warmness filled her soul, and she was feeling like she belonged. For the first time. However, they all went speechless when she morphed into Mad-Eye, just for the laughs. Even Mad-Eye laughed, and asked her to give him his nose back.

One by one, members left the building. Tonks, Sirius, Remus, and Kingsley were now the only one sitting in the dining room now. Tonks went to the kitchen to get something sweet, and Remus, not really sure why, followed her right when she disappeared. He felt pulled, like a magnet. He was now standing, leaned on the door frame, his hands crossed on his chest. He watched her silently for a second, her pink locks jumping as she tried to find something for her sugar craving.

"Try that cabinet," he said, and pointed his finger. She looked at him a bit surprised, but she opened the cabinet he was pointing, and found three chocolate bars.

"Yes! Thank you. I would probably never find them," she said, and opened the chocolate.

"It was my intention, actually, to keep them safe from Sirius. Just like I locked his father's firewhiskey," Remus chuckled.

"So, you don't like to share your chocolate?" Tonks asked, but she figured how stupid that sounded because she was just eating his chocolate.

"Well, I must admit I don't, but I do understand a bad sugar craving," he said calmly, looking amused.

"And that's how you lost your chocolate, professor Lupin," she smiled, winked at him, and took some more chocolate. Right when she winked, she figured what she's done, and felt like an idiot.

"I'm not a professor, not anymore. It just wasn't meant to be," Lupin said with sadness in his voice, but managed to smile a little.

"Why were you sacked? I mean, I didn't hear anything, and you seem like a good professor. You can't be worse than Snape! So, what did you do?" Tonks was curious, and Remus chuckled again.

"Ahh… I will not comment on his teaching methods, in a respect for Dumbledore. But I guess he is more fitted to be a professor than I am," his voice was hoarse, and silent. Tonks noticed the sadness that filled his eyes, and felt bad. She walked up to him, and teared one row of the chocolate.

"I really, really doubt that. And Snape thought me, so I would know. But you look like you are too sad to share your chocolate, so take some," she stuffed the chocolate row in his mouth before he managed to say anything. He was now chewing the chocolate with the smile on his face. It really did make anyone feel better. The moment was interrupted by a loud noise coming from the hallway. They heard what sounded like the front door being slammed. Tonks jumped, and left the chocolate on the counter, as they both took out their wands. And then they heard Sirius yelling.

"Moony, help!"

They rushed up the stairs, and were now on the dining room's door, looking at the front door. Snape was standing there, looking even more uncomfortable than ever before. He said something to Kingsley, who was now heading out. Sirius was kneeling on the ground, and was holding something wrapped in Snape's black robe. Snape too kneeled on the ground. Remus rushed by his friend's side, and Tonks followed. When Remus was standing right behind Sirius, he noticed that Sirius was holding a woman. Red haired woman. Tonks noticed it too, and she knew her. Well, she knew about her.

"Sirius… Help me…" Gwen said right before passing out.

"Moony, Regulus' room… Quick." Sirius said, turning to his friend. Remus jumped, and ran up the stairs. He knew what Sirius meant, and they did clean Regulus' room after all. Tonks was still standing frozen. Sirius stood up, carrying Gwen like a baby in his arms, trying not to lose his balance.

"Black… You're too weak," Snape said, and made a hand movement that was supposed to mean that he will carry Gwen.

"No, I can handle this," he said panting, and carried Gwen up the stairs. Snape was now the one standing frozen.

"Excuse me, but will you explain to me what just happened?" Tonks asked him.

"She was attacked. Hit with a couple of bad curses, I guess," Snape tried to calm his breathing.

"Who is she? Tell me now, I've seen you talking to her at the Triwizard Tournament, and I know she was involved in that mess somehow…" Tonks demanded answers. Snape didn't like that, but he appreciated her determination.

"Her name is Gwen, and she lives in Hogsmeade. If there's anything else about her that you need to know, you will have to find out some other way," Snape cut her off, and walked upstairs too.

Tonks was now standing in the hallway alone. This meeting just became everything she didn't expect, but she was kind of thrilled. Her mind was working overtime now, but she had only one question, and she even said it out loud.

"What. The. Fuck. Just. Happened?"

So... This was supposed to be two chapters, but nope :3

What happened to Gwen? (Everything happened to her, that's the only answer!)

And will Sirius behave around Snape? And Snape around Sirius... DRAMA! alert

Will Remus share his chocolate ever again?

And will anyone explain Tonks what the F-inng F is going on?

Coming soon; Gwen's tale, and Remus Lupin being impressed and seriously smitten (he's obviously already amused!), so stay tuned!

P.S. don't forget to let me know what you think!

xx