A/N: Yay! One new reviewer! I hope there's more though! Again, if anyone
has advice, don't be afraid to write a review! By the way, "Fainne" is
pronounced "FAY-een." It's from the book "Child of the Prophecy" by Juliet
Marillier.
Last Chapter: As the preacher drones on, Lily and James reflect on their first train ride to Hogwarts.
Chapter 4: Would you like some Bacon?
Hagrid stood next to wall and watched the ceremony through tears. He hadn't been surprised to receive an invitation to their wedding, seeing as how he had known all along that they didn't really hate each other.
Hagrid sniffed slightly, and Minerva McGonagall, who was sitting in the row next to him, gave him a handkerchief. He smiled his gratitude and continued watching the ceremony.
'They grow up so fast,' he thought to himself. Why, it was like it was just yesterday when Lily and James arrived at Hogwarts...
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"Firs' years this way!" Hagrid called out. His torso and head could be seen towering above the sea of black robed students.
Trin nudged Lily and Beth toward him. "Come on." Behind them trailed James and his friends.
When they reached the large man, he started down a narrow path. Only the tiny lamp the man was carrying lit the way. Along the way, James and Sirius had struck up a conversation with the man.
"Name's Hagrid. I'm gamekeeper o' Hogwarts. Wonderful man, Dumbledore is. Gave me the job, he did."
"Nice to meet you, Hagrid. I'm James Potter and this is my friend Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and Peter Pettigrew," James introduced himself. He spun around to point out, "And that red head is Lily Evans. You'd want to steer clear of her. She tends to throw tempers."
Lily's face became a bright red as the people around her turned to stare at her and scoot a bit farther away. She began muttering curses under her breath, glaring at James who grinned at her and began talking to Hagrid once again. Hagrid just looked at Lily and James with raised eyebrows.
Ten more minutes of James and Sirius' talking, Hagrid told the group, "Yeh'll get yer firs' sight o' Hogwarts soon. It'll be jus' round this bend here."
The narrow path suddenly opened up at the edge of a great black lake. On a high mountain on the other side, Hogwarts sat with its sparkling windows and high towers. There were ten boats resting at the edge of the lake.
The students gazed at the castle with twinkling eyes and opened mouths. Lily gasped at the sight. Never in her wildest dreams had she thought that this was what Hogwarts looked like. Beside her, Beth and Trin had the same reaction. Even James and Sirius seemed to be at lost of words.
Hagrid stood there for a minute letting the first years admire the view. Then he called, "Right then. Let's get movin'. Don't want to miss the Sorting now, do we? No more'n four to a boat!"
The first years scrambled onto the boats. Sirius, James, Peter, and Remus occupied one boat while Lily, Trin, Beth, and another girl named Fainne sat in another. As they climbed into the boats, Lily and James glared at each other.
As soon as everyone was settled, Hagrid shouted from his own boat, "FORWARD!" The fleet of boats began moving off at once. Everyone stared straight ahead as the dark castle loomed closer and closer. Finally, they reached what seemed to be an underground pier, under the castle.
Hagrid climbed out first and helped the other students off the boats. However, James and Sirius decided to jump off the boat themselves but couldn't seem to keep their balance. As Hagrid was helping Lily off her boat, there was a shout and a large splash. Lily whirled around to see James and Sirius clinging to their boat, causing the boat to rock violently. Peter began crying and Remus was struggling to pull them out of the water.
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Minerva McGonagall handed the weeping Hagrid her handkerchief. Like Hagrid, she was delighted to see this coupling.
Minerva had knew about this couple long before anyone else knew, even their own friends. She had caught them numerous times snogging in an empty classroom or right in the hall. But even then, she thought they were a cute couple, though somewhat mismatched. Lily Evans, the Head Girl, and James Potter, troublemaker extraordinaire. She remembered her first encounter with James and the Marauders...
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A sharp voice from the castle door said, "I hope you two don't behave like this the entire school year." Every head whipped around to see a tall, stern-looking, black-haired witch in green robes. Her hair was pulled back into a neat bun and dark brown eyes peered over the top of her glasses. "No teacher here will put up with it. So I suggest you leave your silliness out here before you join us for the Sorting." She turned to the still sobbing Peter. "Hush, child," she reprimanded in a sharp tone. Peter stopped immediately.
James and Sirius swam to the pier and emerged out of the water, soaking wet. Immediately the witch walked over to them and with a wave of her wand and a few well-chosen words, the two were dry once more. Lily couldn't restrain her gasp.
The witch stood by to watch as Hagrid helped the remaining students out of the boats. Hagrid said meekly, "The firs' years, Professor McGonagall."
The witch answered, "Thank you, Hagrid." She turned back to the quiet students. "Right then. Follow me and behave." She gave James and Sirius a look that seemed to dare them to try something. Intelligently, they didn't.
She turned and swept up through the castle door. Everyone hurried to follow her. They entered the entrance hall which was very big, tall, and wide. The walls were adorned with torches that flickered off the walls, emitting dancing shadows on the marbled floors. Before them stood a grand staircase that led to the upper floors.
Professor McGonagall stopped the students and said, "Welcome to Hogwarts. I am Professor McGonagall. The start-of-term banquet will begin soon, but before you take your seats in the Great Hall, you will be sorted into your houses. Your House will be like your home and the people will be like your family during your stay here at Hogwarts. You will have the same classes as the people of your House. You will sleep in your House dormitory and spend free time in your House common room.
"There are four Houses: Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. Each House has its own history and production of noble wizards and witches. Here at Hogwarts, your triumphs will earn you house points while your rule- breaking will lose points." She glanced at Sirius and James, who were attempting to put on innocent faces. "At the end of the year, the House with the most points wins the House Cup.
"The Sorting Ceremony will begin shortly, and I wish you all the best of luck here at Hogwarts. Please wait here quietly until I return when they are ready for you." Professor McGonagall swept her eyes up and down the students one last time, her gaze resting sharply on James and his gang, and then left.
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Lily didn't pay attention at all to the priest drone on and on about matrimony and faith. She knew that she would love James forever and would always be faithful. Instead, she glanced at Professor Dumbledore who also sat in the first row.
Professor Dumbledore wore an expression of pure happiness. His blue eyes twinkled behind his glasses as he smiled brilliantly. On top of his head, much to Lily's surprise, was the Sorting Hat. Staring at the Sorting Hat and forgetting about the ceremony, she remembered the night when she was sorted into her own House...
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Lily turned to Trin, Beth, and Fainne. "How are we supposed to get sorted?"
Beth and Fainne shrugged their shoulders, but Trin replied, "My mum spoke of an old hat you're supposed to put on your head. It sorts you depending on your mind."
Fainne scoffed incredulously. "How can a hat read your mind?"
Before Trin could answer, there was a whoosh! sound as the flames on the walls faltered, but bounced back.
"What-" Beth began but finished her sentence with a gasp. Many other people breathed in sharply as well.
Twenty pearly-white figures glided through one of the walls effortlessly. They soared across the room, and most of them smiled and bowed their heads, if they had any, at the first years. Lily could see through many of them quite easily and was, to put it simply, spooked.
Before any one can make a sound, Professor McGonagall had returned and was shooing the ghosts away. "Go on now. The Sorting Ceremony is about to start." When the last ghost passed through the opposite wall, Professor McGonagall turned to the students. "Now, form a line and follow me."
Lily lined up behind Beth while a hooked nose black haired boy lined up behind her. She offered a shy smile at the new boy, but he just sniffed and looked the other way. Lily, though somewhat hurt, looked determinedly back at the stern professor. Without a word, the professor led them through a pair of double doors at the end of the hall.
The entire group of first years gasped in unison. Thousands of floating candles lit the Great Hall. Four long tables aligned next to each other started near the double doors and ended before the staff table. Black-robed students were seated all along the tables and were looking at the frightened first years. In front of each student was a golden goblet and plate. Lined in the center of the tables were bigger platters. At the head table, an old, white-haired wizard with twinkling blue eyes smiled at them.
Lily watched as Professor McGonagall placed a four-legged stool in front of the staff table. On top of the stool was the most worn, frayed, and dirtiest hat Lily ever saw. She whispered to Trin, "We're expected to put that thing on our heads?" Trin, with a wrinkled nose, put a finger to her lips and nodded solemnly. She didn't seem to like the idea either.
The entire hall grew silent as everyone watched the wizard's hat. The hat twitched. A rip near the brim of the hat opened wide like a mouth and the hat began to sing:
"Oh, you may not think I'm pretty,
But don't judge on what you see,
I'll eat myself if you can find
A smarter hat than me.
You can keep your bowlers black,
Your top hats sleek and tall,
For I'm the Hogwarts Sorting Hat
And I can cap them all.
There's nothing hidden in your head
The Sorting Hat can't see,
So try me on and I will tell you
Where you ought to be.
You might belong in Gryffindor,
Where dwell the brave at heart,
Their daring, nerve, and chivalry
Set Gryffindors apart;
You might belong in Hufflepuff;
Where they are just and loyal,
Those patient Hufflepuffs are true
And unafraid of toil;
Or yet in wise old Ravenclaw,
If you've a ready mind,
Where those of wit and learning,
Will always find their kind;
Or perhaps in Slytherin
You'll make your real friends,
Those cunning folk use any means
To achieve their ends.
So put me on! Don't be afraid!
And don't get in a flap!
You're in safe hands (though I have none)
For I'm a Thinking Cap!"
The hall burst into applause when the hat finished its song. All the first years clapped loudly as well.
Professor stepped forward with a long roll of parchment. She glanced at the hall and immediately everyone fell silent once more. "When I call your name, you will put on the hat and sit on the stool," she told the awaiting first years. "Abbot, Samuel!"
A brown haired boy stumbled out of the line and placed the hat reluctantly on his head. There was a deafening silence as the crowd waited for the hat's decision. Finally. "HUFFLEPUFF!" The table on the far right clapped loudly, obviously the Hufflepuff table, as Samuel smiled weakly and went to join them.
"Allan, Lindsay!"
"RAVENCLAW!"
"Bellum, Fainne!"
The petite blonde trembled slightly as she wobbled up to the stool. Lily whispered, "Go Fainne!" as Fainne placed the hat on her head and sat on the stool.
"GRYFFINDOR!" the hat shouted.
The table closest to Lily gave a deafening cheer as Fainne walked to the table, grinning.
Soon after, "Black, Sirius!" was called.
Sirius strode confidently to the stool and gave all the first years a thumbs-up and a salute. Light laughter rippled through the hall. As soon as the hat touched his head, "GRYFFINDOR!" was announced. Sirius jumped up happily, grinning like a madman and dashed toward the Gryffindor table.
Professor McGonagall hurried after him when she realized he had taken the Sorting Hat with him as well. However, Sirius didn't hand the hat back. Instead he marched back to the stool and set it on the next person's (Brown, Michael) head himself proudly, as if it were an honor. Again, everyone in the hall chuckled.
Finally, "Evans, Lily!"
Lily's legs immediately felt like jelly, and her feet turned to stone. She whimpered slightly as she dragged herself up to the stool. Beth and Trin patted her on the back reassuringly. She tried to lift the hat, but her arms lacked the muscles. Lily heard herself breathing heavily. Still, she willed herself to move and soon, the hat was on top of her head. She heard a voice not quite inside her head, yet not quite aloud.
"Ah, not a bad mind, I see. You have a strong will to learn. There's loyalty in here, oh yes, much of it. You have a strong sense of bravery as well. But there's also the will to succeed. Oh yes, that grows strongly in your mind, doesn't it? Want to prove yourself do you? Now, where to put you? You're a difficult one, you are. Hmm. best try GRYFFINDOR!" The Gryffindor table applauded loudly as this last word was said.
Lily trembled as she found a seat next to a beaming Fainne. Sirius grinned. She smiled at everyone who shook her hand and patted her on the back. The noise died down as the next name was called.
Finally, "Illyia, Celastrina!"
Lily's attention snapped back to the front as Trin practically ran forward and jammed the hat on her head.
"GRYFFINDOR!" after a moment's pause.
Lily jumped up along with some other people as Trin skipped up to the table. Trin sat down next to Lily, and the two turned toward the sorting hat once more.
"Lupin, Remus!"
The pale, sandy-haired boy swaggered forward to place the hat on his head.
"GRYFFINDOR!"
Sirius jumped up, arms flailing, and knocked a third year out of his seat. "Yay, Remus!" he cheered loudly.
Remus approached the table looking somewhat green. Sirius patted Remus on the back as everyone settled down again.
"Malfoy, Lucius!"
A bleached blond boy stepped out of the line. He had a pale pointed face with narrowed eyes. The hat touched his head slightly and the hat bellowed, "SLYTHERIN!" The boy smirked as he joined the surly-looking bunch at another table.
"Pettigrew, Peter!"
The poor boy stumbled through the crowd and placed the hat on his head. He plonked down on the stool, causing the Sorting Hat to fall off. Everyone laughed softly at the clumsiness, and Lily felt a bit sorry for him. He fumbled with the Hat, which was protesting, "I daresay, boy, hurry it up!", a while longer before finally placing it back on his head. There was a silence that lasted a few minutes as if the Hat didn't know where to put him.
Finally the hat yelled, "GRYFFINDOR!"
Peter, who was sweating by that time, walked down to a cheering Sirius and Remus.
"Potter, James!"
James strode confidently to the hat as Sirius had done and flashed Sirius a thumbs-up. Sirius pointed at Lily across the table and James' grin vanished. He scowled and mumbled a bit as he placed the hat on his head.
Lily folded her arms across her chest. 'If James ends up in Gryffindor, I don't know what I would do.'
As if the Fates heard her, the hat shouted at that very moment, "GRYFFINDOR!"
Lily groaned and placed her head into her hands, crying, "Why me?" Fainne and Remus patted her back pityingly. Trin jumped up and down with Sirius.
James didn't look too happy about it either. He frowned as he walked down to sit next to Peter, ignoring all the cheers of "Welcome!"
"What is-" James began but Sirius hushed him. The ceremony was still going on. James just folded his arms and stuck out his tongue at the still remorseful Lily. Fortunately Lily, whose head was still hidden behind her hands, didn't notice.
"Snape, Severus!"
The hook-nosed boy that had stood behind Lily now moved up and wore the frayed hat. James and Sirius seemed to find him funny and began snickering behind their hands. The boy glared at them as he sat down on the stool. Lily was still oblivious to the ceremony.
"SLYTHERIN!"
The boy smiled mirthlessly as he went to his table.
As soon as "Wickham, Beth!" was called, Lily snapped up and crossed her fingers, whispering, "Please, oh please!"
"RAVENCLAW!"
Lily, Trin, and Fainne groaned. Beth looked at them with her big, sad eyes and went to join the cheering Ravenclaws.
The old white-bearded man stood up as Professor McGonagall proceeded to roll up the parchment and take away the stool and hat. The man beamed happily at the students and cried out, "Welcome to a new year at Hogwarts! I am Professor Dumbledore, Headmaster of this wonderful school. Just a few words before we start our dinner. First, I have a few start-of-term notices. First years should note that the Forest on the grounds is forbidden to all pupils. Secondly, I have been asked by Mr. Finch, the caretaker, to remind you that no magic should be used between classes in the corridors. Thirdly, Quidditch trials will be held in the second week of the term. Anyone who is in second-year and above and interested in playing for their House teams should contact Madame Hooch. Finally, Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak! Thank you!"
As soon as he finished his speech, the golden platters in front of the students, to Lily's astonishment, were filled with delicious, steaming food. Everyone began to load their plates. Loud chattering immediately filled the Hall.
Immediately, Lily turned to Trin who sat on her left side. "How come Beth didn't get into Gryffindor?" she asked impatiently.
Trin was helping herself to the potatoes. She shrugged. "It's not our decision, you know. Maybe she was more Ravenclaw material."
Lily didn't find this helpful at all. She stared despairingly at the roast beef in front of her, ignoring the call her stomach gave her.
Around her, the other first years were talking about their families. "My mum's a witch. My dad's a Muggle. Took a while before he finally believed her," Fainne was saying.
"My family's Pureblood. Not a drop of Muggle blood in my veins," Trin told everyone.
"Same with me, Remus, Peter, and James," Sirius put in. "There aren't many of us left, us Purebloods."
A girl named Nathalie Lynn replied, "I'm a Muggle-born, I suppose. Patricia here told me. My mum and dad were surprised to see an owl sitting in our kitchen. They were so pleased to see that I've been accepted to go to a witch school. My brother didn't seem to like it though." She wrinkled her nose.
Trin clapped her hand on Lily's back. "Same with good ol' Lily. Gave her parents and her sister quite a scare."
Lily lifted her head a bit to survey her fellow classmates. Nathalie had sandy colored hair and hazel eyes. It was easy to tell that she was a dancer; her back was straight even as she ate and her legs and arms were long. Beside her, Patricia Ley was the exact opposite of her: she was shorter and not as thin, though not fat either. She had shoulder length ebony black hair and had naturally dark skin. She seemed to be Indian. (A/N: Patricia is Parvati and Padma's mother. I know, Parvati and Padma's mother is supposed to be Muggle but for the purpose of this story, she's a witch)
"Well, with her, who wouldn't be scared?" James put in bluntly.
Lily's eyes snapped to him and he grinned sweetly. "Well, that's a funny thing to say when you're still wearing your Halloween costume from last year," she retorted back. James' grin disappeared and the two took on to glaring at each other.
Another first year, a boy said, "I'm a half and half as well. My dad's the wizard and my mum's the Muggle. It's a shame she died when I was five. Now it's just me and my dad."
Lily looked at the boy. He had black hair and blue eyes. He was a bit shorter than James but taller than Lily. "I'm sorry, I didn't quite catch your name," said Lily.
The boy smiled at Lily. "Name's Sean Finnigan (A/N: I think you can guess...)." He reached across the table.
"Lily Evans." Lily extended her hand. They shook hands. Lily felt a bit better, meeting all these new people. She smiled as she helped herself to some peas.
Fainne asked, "Chicken?" offering Lily the platter.
Lily wrinkled her nose. "No thanks," she replied. "I'm a vegetarian."
James' eyebrows rose as he stood up. "Well, how about some pork chops?" he asked picking up the platter that was loaded with pork chops.
Lily eyed James suspiciously. "No, thank you."
James set the platter down. "Hmm... maybe you would prefer some bacon," he said, picking up the bacon.
"I said, no thank you," Lily replied through gritted teeth.
"Really, I insist." James picked up Lily's fork and before she could object, James dumped a big helping of bacon onto Lily's plate.
Lily gave a yelp of surprise then looked at James, her eyes intense with pure hatred. "You!" she shrieked. Instantly, the entire Hall fell silent, listening and watching the Gryffindor first years. "You insolent pig! How dare you!" James had one eyebrow raised in amusement, his arms folded neatly across his chest. "You're so-. God, words can't even describe you!"
"How about 'charming', 'loving', 'cute', 'sexy', and 'smart'?" James asked, not helping the situation at all.
Lily gave a loud shriek again and screamed, "How about you stay away from me if you ever want to see the light of day again?!"
Professor McGonagall rushed to Lily's side and said sharply, "That's enough, young lady. This behavior is not becoming of a young witch. Follow me." She looked at James sternly. "You, too."
Lily followed Professor McGonagall, the anger in her eyes were now replaced by a frightened look. However, that didn't prevent her from throwing a glare at James.
James whispered to Sirius, "Great! My first detention already!" He grinned and Sirius flashed him a small thumbs-up.
"Potter! Now!" James quickly rushed after Lily and Professor McGonagall. They rushed out of the hall.
********************
Sirius beamed at his best friend. James was staring at Lily, but amusingly, Lily was staring at something behind her. Whispers swept through the church. Sirius followed Lily's stare and his own eyes rested on the old, ragged Sorting Hat.
As he stared at the Sorting Hat, he, too, remembered their first night at Hogwarts...
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Professor Dumbledore broke the silence. "Well, that was marvelous live entertainment this evening, I should say. Now, back to our dinner."
The regular chatter of the Hall slowly filled again and soon, the episode was almost forgotten by everyone. That is, except for the Gryffindor first years.
"Blimey, they'll make us lose House points before we've even gotten them!" Trin complained.
"And that's not the worst of it," Fainne frowned. "They probably have detention already."
Sirius beamed proudly. "Yes, isn't that great?" he asked cheerfully, spooning up some more gravy.
"What? How's that great? We're losing the House Cup when everyone else still has zero points!" Nathalie pouted.
"Not that. The detention. Me and James are aiming for the most detentions in Hogwarts history," Sirius explained smiling.
"You're nuts."
"Oh, would you mind passing those, dear?" Sirius asked innocently.
Nathalie rolled her eyes.
A/N: This chapter is rather long, but I hope it's satisfying!
MWPP: *huggles back* lol. Thank you so much for your review! I feel better! =)
(Erin)J.E.A.R. Potter: I'll just call you Erin from now on lol. It'll be less confusing. I hope this chapter is long enough for you. The reason why other chapters were shorter was because I couldn't find a suitable stopping place. Thanks for your review!
Shamrock13: Thank you so much! I'm glad you like the flashbacks. If it gets too confusing, I'm probably going to write this story with a non-flashback edition lol. Hope you like this chapter!
Last Chapter: As the preacher drones on, Lily and James reflect on their first train ride to Hogwarts.
Chapter 4: Would you like some Bacon?
Hagrid stood next to wall and watched the ceremony through tears. He hadn't been surprised to receive an invitation to their wedding, seeing as how he had known all along that they didn't really hate each other.
Hagrid sniffed slightly, and Minerva McGonagall, who was sitting in the row next to him, gave him a handkerchief. He smiled his gratitude and continued watching the ceremony.
'They grow up so fast,' he thought to himself. Why, it was like it was just yesterday when Lily and James arrived at Hogwarts...
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"Firs' years this way!" Hagrid called out. His torso and head could be seen towering above the sea of black robed students.
Trin nudged Lily and Beth toward him. "Come on." Behind them trailed James and his friends.
When they reached the large man, he started down a narrow path. Only the tiny lamp the man was carrying lit the way. Along the way, James and Sirius had struck up a conversation with the man.
"Name's Hagrid. I'm gamekeeper o' Hogwarts. Wonderful man, Dumbledore is. Gave me the job, he did."
"Nice to meet you, Hagrid. I'm James Potter and this is my friend Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and Peter Pettigrew," James introduced himself. He spun around to point out, "And that red head is Lily Evans. You'd want to steer clear of her. She tends to throw tempers."
Lily's face became a bright red as the people around her turned to stare at her and scoot a bit farther away. She began muttering curses under her breath, glaring at James who grinned at her and began talking to Hagrid once again. Hagrid just looked at Lily and James with raised eyebrows.
Ten more minutes of James and Sirius' talking, Hagrid told the group, "Yeh'll get yer firs' sight o' Hogwarts soon. It'll be jus' round this bend here."
The narrow path suddenly opened up at the edge of a great black lake. On a high mountain on the other side, Hogwarts sat with its sparkling windows and high towers. There were ten boats resting at the edge of the lake.
The students gazed at the castle with twinkling eyes and opened mouths. Lily gasped at the sight. Never in her wildest dreams had she thought that this was what Hogwarts looked like. Beside her, Beth and Trin had the same reaction. Even James and Sirius seemed to be at lost of words.
Hagrid stood there for a minute letting the first years admire the view. Then he called, "Right then. Let's get movin'. Don't want to miss the Sorting now, do we? No more'n four to a boat!"
The first years scrambled onto the boats. Sirius, James, Peter, and Remus occupied one boat while Lily, Trin, Beth, and another girl named Fainne sat in another. As they climbed into the boats, Lily and James glared at each other.
As soon as everyone was settled, Hagrid shouted from his own boat, "FORWARD!" The fleet of boats began moving off at once. Everyone stared straight ahead as the dark castle loomed closer and closer. Finally, they reached what seemed to be an underground pier, under the castle.
Hagrid climbed out first and helped the other students off the boats. However, James and Sirius decided to jump off the boat themselves but couldn't seem to keep their balance. As Hagrid was helping Lily off her boat, there was a shout and a large splash. Lily whirled around to see James and Sirius clinging to their boat, causing the boat to rock violently. Peter began crying and Remus was struggling to pull them out of the water.
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Minerva McGonagall handed the weeping Hagrid her handkerchief. Like Hagrid, she was delighted to see this coupling.
Minerva had knew about this couple long before anyone else knew, even their own friends. She had caught them numerous times snogging in an empty classroom or right in the hall. But even then, she thought they were a cute couple, though somewhat mismatched. Lily Evans, the Head Girl, and James Potter, troublemaker extraordinaire. She remembered her first encounter with James and the Marauders...
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A sharp voice from the castle door said, "I hope you two don't behave like this the entire school year." Every head whipped around to see a tall, stern-looking, black-haired witch in green robes. Her hair was pulled back into a neat bun and dark brown eyes peered over the top of her glasses. "No teacher here will put up with it. So I suggest you leave your silliness out here before you join us for the Sorting." She turned to the still sobbing Peter. "Hush, child," she reprimanded in a sharp tone. Peter stopped immediately.
James and Sirius swam to the pier and emerged out of the water, soaking wet. Immediately the witch walked over to them and with a wave of her wand and a few well-chosen words, the two were dry once more. Lily couldn't restrain her gasp.
The witch stood by to watch as Hagrid helped the remaining students out of the boats. Hagrid said meekly, "The firs' years, Professor McGonagall."
The witch answered, "Thank you, Hagrid." She turned back to the quiet students. "Right then. Follow me and behave." She gave James and Sirius a look that seemed to dare them to try something. Intelligently, they didn't.
She turned and swept up through the castle door. Everyone hurried to follow her. They entered the entrance hall which was very big, tall, and wide. The walls were adorned with torches that flickered off the walls, emitting dancing shadows on the marbled floors. Before them stood a grand staircase that led to the upper floors.
Professor McGonagall stopped the students and said, "Welcome to Hogwarts. I am Professor McGonagall. The start-of-term banquet will begin soon, but before you take your seats in the Great Hall, you will be sorted into your houses. Your House will be like your home and the people will be like your family during your stay here at Hogwarts. You will have the same classes as the people of your House. You will sleep in your House dormitory and spend free time in your House common room.
"There are four Houses: Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. Each House has its own history and production of noble wizards and witches. Here at Hogwarts, your triumphs will earn you house points while your rule- breaking will lose points." She glanced at Sirius and James, who were attempting to put on innocent faces. "At the end of the year, the House with the most points wins the House Cup.
"The Sorting Ceremony will begin shortly, and I wish you all the best of luck here at Hogwarts. Please wait here quietly until I return when they are ready for you." Professor McGonagall swept her eyes up and down the students one last time, her gaze resting sharply on James and his gang, and then left.
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Lily didn't pay attention at all to the priest drone on and on about matrimony and faith. She knew that she would love James forever and would always be faithful. Instead, she glanced at Professor Dumbledore who also sat in the first row.
Professor Dumbledore wore an expression of pure happiness. His blue eyes twinkled behind his glasses as he smiled brilliantly. On top of his head, much to Lily's surprise, was the Sorting Hat. Staring at the Sorting Hat and forgetting about the ceremony, she remembered the night when she was sorted into her own House...
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Lily turned to Trin, Beth, and Fainne. "How are we supposed to get sorted?"
Beth and Fainne shrugged their shoulders, but Trin replied, "My mum spoke of an old hat you're supposed to put on your head. It sorts you depending on your mind."
Fainne scoffed incredulously. "How can a hat read your mind?"
Before Trin could answer, there was a whoosh! sound as the flames on the walls faltered, but bounced back.
"What-" Beth began but finished her sentence with a gasp. Many other people breathed in sharply as well.
Twenty pearly-white figures glided through one of the walls effortlessly. They soared across the room, and most of them smiled and bowed their heads, if they had any, at the first years. Lily could see through many of them quite easily and was, to put it simply, spooked.
Before any one can make a sound, Professor McGonagall had returned and was shooing the ghosts away. "Go on now. The Sorting Ceremony is about to start." When the last ghost passed through the opposite wall, Professor McGonagall turned to the students. "Now, form a line and follow me."
Lily lined up behind Beth while a hooked nose black haired boy lined up behind her. She offered a shy smile at the new boy, but he just sniffed and looked the other way. Lily, though somewhat hurt, looked determinedly back at the stern professor. Without a word, the professor led them through a pair of double doors at the end of the hall.
The entire group of first years gasped in unison. Thousands of floating candles lit the Great Hall. Four long tables aligned next to each other started near the double doors and ended before the staff table. Black-robed students were seated all along the tables and were looking at the frightened first years. In front of each student was a golden goblet and plate. Lined in the center of the tables were bigger platters. At the head table, an old, white-haired wizard with twinkling blue eyes smiled at them.
Lily watched as Professor McGonagall placed a four-legged stool in front of the staff table. On top of the stool was the most worn, frayed, and dirtiest hat Lily ever saw. She whispered to Trin, "We're expected to put that thing on our heads?" Trin, with a wrinkled nose, put a finger to her lips and nodded solemnly. She didn't seem to like the idea either.
The entire hall grew silent as everyone watched the wizard's hat. The hat twitched. A rip near the brim of the hat opened wide like a mouth and the hat began to sing:
"Oh, you may not think I'm pretty,
But don't judge on what you see,
I'll eat myself if you can find
A smarter hat than me.
You can keep your bowlers black,
Your top hats sleek and tall,
For I'm the Hogwarts Sorting Hat
And I can cap them all.
There's nothing hidden in your head
The Sorting Hat can't see,
So try me on and I will tell you
Where you ought to be.
You might belong in Gryffindor,
Where dwell the brave at heart,
Their daring, nerve, and chivalry
Set Gryffindors apart;
You might belong in Hufflepuff;
Where they are just and loyal,
Those patient Hufflepuffs are true
And unafraid of toil;
Or yet in wise old Ravenclaw,
If you've a ready mind,
Where those of wit and learning,
Will always find their kind;
Or perhaps in Slytherin
You'll make your real friends,
Those cunning folk use any means
To achieve their ends.
So put me on! Don't be afraid!
And don't get in a flap!
You're in safe hands (though I have none)
For I'm a Thinking Cap!"
The hall burst into applause when the hat finished its song. All the first years clapped loudly as well.
Professor stepped forward with a long roll of parchment. She glanced at the hall and immediately everyone fell silent once more. "When I call your name, you will put on the hat and sit on the stool," she told the awaiting first years. "Abbot, Samuel!"
A brown haired boy stumbled out of the line and placed the hat reluctantly on his head. There was a deafening silence as the crowd waited for the hat's decision. Finally. "HUFFLEPUFF!" The table on the far right clapped loudly, obviously the Hufflepuff table, as Samuel smiled weakly and went to join them.
"Allan, Lindsay!"
"RAVENCLAW!"
"Bellum, Fainne!"
The petite blonde trembled slightly as she wobbled up to the stool. Lily whispered, "Go Fainne!" as Fainne placed the hat on her head and sat on the stool.
"GRYFFINDOR!" the hat shouted.
The table closest to Lily gave a deafening cheer as Fainne walked to the table, grinning.
Soon after, "Black, Sirius!" was called.
Sirius strode confidently to the stool and gave all the first years a thumbs-up and a salute. Light laughter rippled through the hall. As soon as the hat touched his head, "GRYFFINDOR!" was announced. Sirius jumped up happily, grinning like a madman and dashed toward the Gryffindor table.
Professor McGonagall hurried after him when she realized he had taken the Sorting Hat with him as well. However, Sirius didn't hand the hat back. Instead he marched back to the stool and set it on the next person's (Brown, Michael) head himself proudly, as if it were an honor. Again, everyone in the hall chuckled.
Finally, "Evans, Lily!"
Lily's legs immediately felt like jelly, and her feet turned to stone. She whimpered slightly as she dragged herself up to the stool. Beth and Trin patted her on the back reassuringly. She tried to lift the hat, but her arms lacked the muscles. Lily heard herself breathing heavily. Still, she willed herself to move and soon, the hat was on top of her head. She heard a voice not quite inside her head, yet not quite aloud.
"Ah, not a bad mind, I see. You have a strong will to learn. There's loyalty in here, oh yes, much of it. You have a strong sense of bravery as well. But there's also the will to succeed. Oh yes, that grows strongly in your mind, doesn't it? Want to prove yourself do you? Now, where to put you? You're a difficult one, you are. Hmm. best try GRYFFINDOR!" The Gryffindor table applauded loudly as this last word was said.
Lily trembled as she found a seat next to a beaming Fainne. Sirius grinned. She smiled at everyone who shook her hand and patted her on the back. The noise died down as the next name was called.
Finally, "Illyia, Celastrina!"
Lily's attention snapped back to the front as Trin practically ran forward and jammed the hat on her head.
"GRYFFINDOR!" after a moment's pause.
Lily jumped up along with some other people as Trin skipped up to the table. Trin sat down next to Lily, and the two turned toward the sorting hat once more.
"Lupin, Remus!"
The pale, sandy-haired boy swaggered forward to place the hat on his head.
"GRYFFINDOR!"
Sirius jumped up, arms flailing, and knocked a third year out of his seat. "Yay, Remus!" he cheered loudly.
Remus approached the table looking somewhat green. Sirius patted Remus on the back as everyone settled down again.
"Malfoy, Lucius!"
A bleached blond boy stepped out of the line. He had a pale pointed face with narrowed eyes. The hat touched his head slightly and the hat bellowed, "SLYTHERIN!" The boy smirked as he joined the surly-looking bunch at another table.
"Pettigrew, Peter!"
The poor boy stumbled through the crowd and placed the hat on his head. He plonked down on the stool, causing the Sorting Hat to fall off. Everyone laughed softly at the clumsiness, and Lily felt a bit sorry for him. He fumbled with the Hat, which was protesting, "I daresay, boy, hurry it up!", a while longer before finally placing it back on his head. There was a silence that lasted a few minutes as if the Hat didn't know where to put him.
Finally the hat yelled, "GRYFFINDOR!"
Peter, who was sweating by that time, walked down to a cheering Sirius and Remus.
"Potter, James!"
James strode confidently to the hat as Sirius had done and flashed Sirius a thumbs-up. Sirius pointed at Lily across the table and James' grin vanished. He scowled and mumbled a bit as he placed the hat on his head.
Lily folded her arms across her chest. 'If James ends up in Gryffindor, I don't know what I would do.'
As if the Fates heard her, the hat shouted at that very moment, "GRYFFINDOR!"
Lily groaned and placed her head into her hands, crying, "Why me?" Fainne and Remus patted her back pityingly. Trin jumped up and down with Sirius.
James didn't look too happy about it either. He frowned as he walked down to sit next to Peter, ignoring all the cheers of "Welcome!"
"What is-" James began but Sirius hushed him. The ceremony was still going on. James just folded his arms and stuck out his tongue at the still remorseful Lily. Fortunately Lily, whose head was still hidden behind her hands, didn't notice.
"Snape, Severus!"
The hook-nosed boy that had stood behind Lily now moved up and wore the frayed hat. James and Sirius seemed to find him funny and began snickering behind their hands. The boy glared at them as he sat down on the stool. Lily was still oblivious to the ceremony.
"SLYTHERIN!"
The boy smiled mirthlessly as he went to his table.
As soon as "Wickham, Beth!" was called, Lily snapped up and crossed her fingers, whispering, "Please, oh please!"
"RAVENCLAW!"
Lily, Trin, and Fainne groaned. Beth looked at them with her big, sad eyes and went to join the cheering Ravenclaws.
The old white-bearded man stood up as Professor McGonagall proceeded to roll up the parchment and take away the stool and hat. The man beamed happily at the students and cried out, "Welcome to a new year at Hogwarts! I am Professor Dumbledore, Headmaster of this wonderful school. Just a few words before we start our dinner. First, I have a few start-of-term notices. First years should note that the Forest on the grounds is forbidden to all pupils. Secondly, I have been asked by Mr. Finch, the caretaker, to remind you that no magic should be used between classes in the corridors. Thirdly, Quidditch trials will be held in the second week of the term. Anyone who is in second-year and above and interested in playing for their House teams should contact Madame Hooch. Finally, Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak! Thank you!"
As soon as he finished his speech, the golden platters in front of the students, to Lily's astonishment, were filled with delicious, steaming food. Everyone began to load their plates. Loud chattering immediately filled the Hall.
Immediately, Lily turned to Trin who sat on her left side. "How come Beth didn't get into Gryffindor?" she asked impatiently.
Trin was helping herself to the potatoes. She shrugged. "It's not our decision, you know. Maybe she was more Ravenclaw material."
Lily didn't find this helpful at all. She stared despairingly at the roast beef in front of her, ignoring the call her stomach gave her.
Around her, the other first years were talking about their families. "My mum's a witch. My dad's a Muggle. Took a while before he finally believed her," Fainne was saying.
"My family's Pureblood. Not a drop of Muggle blood in my veins," Trin told everyone.
"Same with me, Remus, Peter, and James," Sirius put in. "There aren't many of us left, us Purebloods."
A girl named Nathalie Lynn replied, "I'm a Muggle-born, I suppose. Patricia here told me. My mum and dad were surprised to see an owl sitting in our kitchen. They were so pleased to see that I've been accepted to go to a witch school. My brother didn't seem to like it though." She wrinkled her nose.
Trin clapped her hand on Lily's back. "Same with good ol' Lily. Gave her parents and her sister quite a scare."
Lily lifted her head a bit to survey her fellow classmates. Nathalie had sandy colored hair and hazel eyes. It was easy to tell that she was a dancer; her back was straight even as she ate and her legs and arms were long. Beside her, Patricia Ley was the exact opposite of her: she was shorter and not as thin, though not fat either. She had shoulder length ebony black hair and had naturally dark skin. She seemed to be Indian. (A/N: Patricia is Parvati and Padma's mother. I know, Parvati and Padma's mother is supposed to be Muggle but for the purpose of this story, she's a witch)
"Well, with her, who wouldn't be scared?" James put in bluntly.
Lily's eyes snapped to him and he grinned sweetly. "Well, that's a funny thing to say when you're still wearing your Halloween costume from last year," she retorted back. James' grin disappeared and the two took on to glaring at each other.
Another first year, a boy said, "I'm a half and half as well. My dad's the wizard and my mum's the Muggle. It's a shame she died when I was five. Now it's just me and my dad."
Lily looked at the boy. He had black hair and blue eyes. He was a bit shorter than James but taller than Lily. "I'm sorry, I didn't quite catch your name," said Lily.
The boy smiled at Lily. "Name's Sean Finnigan (A/N: I think you can guess...)." He reached across the table.
"Lily Evans." Lily extended her hand. They shook hands. Lily felt a bit better, meeting all these new people. She smiled as she helped herself to some peas.
Fainne asked, "Chicken?" offering Lily the platter.
Lily wrinkled her nose. "No thanks," she replied. "I'm a vegetarian."
James' eyebrows rose as he stood up. "Well, how about some pork chops?" he asked picking up the platter that was loaded with pork chops.
Lily eyed James suspiciously. "No, thank you."
James set the platter down. "Hmm... maybe you would prefer some bacon," he said, picking up the bacon.
"I said, no thank you," Lily replied through gritted teeth.
"Really, I insist." James picked up Lily's fork and before she could object, James dumped a big helping of bacon onto Lily's plate.
Lily gave a yelp of surprise then looked at James, her eyes intense with pure hatred. "You!" she shrieked. Instantly, the entire Hall fell silent, listening and watching the Gryffindor first years. "You insolent pig! How dare you!" James had one eyebrow raised in amusement, his arms folded neatly across his chest. "You're so-. God, words can't even describe you!"
"How about 'charming', 'loving', 'cute', 'sexy', and 'smart'?" James asked, not helping the situation at all.
Lily gave a loud shriek again and screamed, "How about you stay away from me if you ever want to see the light of day again?!"
Professor McGonagall rushed to Lily's side and said sharply, "That's enough, young lady. This behavior is not becoming of a young witch. Follow me." She looked at James sternly. "You, too."
Lily followed Professor McGonagall, the anger in her eyes were now replaced by a frightened look. However, that didn't prevent her from throwing a glare at James.
James whispered to Sirius, "Great! My first detention already!" He grinned and Sirius flashed him a small thumbs-up.
"Potter! Now!" James quickly rushed after Lily and Professor McGonagall. They rushed out of the hall.
********************
Sirius beamed at his best friend. James was staring at Lily, but amusingly, Lily was staring at something behind her. Whispers swept through the church. Sirius followed Lily's stare and his own eyes rested on the old, ragged Sorting Hat.
As he stared at the Sorting Hat, he, too, remembered their first night at Hogwarts...
*****************************
Professor Dumbledore broke the silence. "Well, that was marvelous live entertainment this evening, I should say. Now, back to our dinner."
The regular chatter of the Hall slowly filled again and soon, the episode was almost forgotten by everyone. That is, except for the Gryffindor first years.
"Blimey, they'll make us lose House points before we've even gotten them!" Trin complained.
"And that's not the worst of it," Fainne frowned. "They probably have detention already."
Sirius beamed proudly. "Yes, isn't that great?" he asked cheerfully, spooning up some more gravy.
"What? How's that great? We're losing the House Cup when everyone else still has zero points!" Nathalie pouted.
"Not that. The detention. Me and James are aiming for the most detentions in Hogwarts history," Sirius explained smiling.
"You're nuts."
"Oh, would you mind passing those, dear?" Sirius asked innocently.
Nathalie rolled her eyes.
A/N: This chapter is rather long, but I hope it's satisfying!
MWPP: *huggles back* lol. Thank you so much for your review! I feel better! =)
(Erin)J.E.A.R. Potter: I'll just call you Erin from now on lol. It'll be less confusing. I hope this chapter is long enough for you. The reason why other chapters were shorter was because I couldn't find a suitable stopping place. Thanks for your review!
Shamrock13: Thank you so much! I'm glad you like the flashbacks. If it gets too confusing, I'm probably going to write this story with a non-flashback edition lol. Hope you like this chapter!