Disclaimer: You know the drill. Sadly, I own none of this, except a few
things such as the plot, Chloe, Jennifer, Professor Blint, etc. The rest is
J.K. Rowling's.
A/N: Alright, so I said I wasn't going to update until 65 reviews! But I wrote this yesterday and decided I might as well go ahead and post it now whether I got the reviews or not. I'm really not going to post the next chapter until 65 though, but most likely that will be easy (hopefully!).
Thanks to the following people for their wonderful reviews:
Shining Star- Thanks so much! I'm glad you like the story!
Sirena Oculare- I appreciate it! Thanks a lot, and I hope you keep reading!
SAKURAnTOKYO- Thanks again! I've really loved all of your reviews! And about Peter…you'll see what happens. I originally planned to put it in this chapter, but it would have made it too long.
Chapter 14- Sirius Returns (lol, I had no clue what to call this chapter, so this will just have to do!)
Sirius was slowly recovering. After a few days had passed, a reluctant Madam Pomfrey agreed that he could leave. The Marauders and the others planned a party for his arrival back in the Gryffindor common room. Well, the Marauders minus Peter, who had yet to return. (A/N: And I'm not especially keen to let him come back! I really don't like him at all! Too bad I can't kill him off right now, but he's needed for the plot.)
Jennifer arrived, Sirius leaning on her shoulder, at the portrait hole. She entered and pulled him inside.
"Surprise!" all of Gryffindor jumped out from their hiding places. Music started up and snacks were served. Sirius stood stunned, his eyes slightly moist.
"Aww, you didn't need to do all this for little old me. I'm honored!"
"As well you should be Padfoot! You know we all love you!" James and the rest had arrived at their side, grinning profusely.
"How's it going, old guy?" Chloe brushed a strand of dark hair away from her face with the hand that wasn't being held by Remus.
"Oh, you know, same old stuff. Now, let's see what kind of food you got me." He smacked his lips. The Hospital Wing food had not been the best, after all.
"And after we've stuffed our faces, I think a few games are in order. Is that okay with you?" Remus asked as they headed for the table of food.
"Nothing ever sounded better in my life. Thank you! For all of it!" Sirius was still beaming, he was very pleased with his party.
The night proceeded and was fun-filled. After eating until they felt like blimps, they sprawled out into chairs near the fire.
"Ohhh." Chloe groaned. "I'm soo stuffed. I couldn't possibly swallow another bite."
"Me neither. I don't think I've ever been this full in my life." Lily decided that she wouldn't move from the spot she was in unless it was completely necessary. Remus laughed, his gray eyes turning to them.
"I don't believe we'll be wanting to play any active games right now. Let's say our game of Truth or Dare is postponed until further notice."
"Definitely. I don't believe I would survive a dare in this state." James replied. "All I want is to sit here. Forever, if that's what I need to do."
With much grunting and effort, Jennifer turned her body to face Sirius. "As this is your party, it's you I should ask. What do you propose that we do?"
"Me? Well, I feel like sitting like a lazy slug and talking for awhile. After that, we'll see how it goes."
"Fair enough."
Just then James burst out laughing, and everyone turned to him in surprise. "I…(laughter) just remembered… (more laughter)… a prank idea I came up with to pull on Malfoy and Snape. I forgot to tell you guys about it, but I suppose you'd like to hear now?"
"Please. Do go on."
He laughed again. "Well, I got the idea first while I was sitting in Potions the other day. I got the strangest image of the two of them standing in green dresses, one polka dotted, and one striped (A/N: My little sister was watching Blue's Clues when I wrote this.). I spent the rest of the class period adding details. Of course, we have to do it in front of the whole school. Otherwise it's just not as entertaining. So, what do you think? And it needs something more, any suggestions?" Hearing this, they all grinned evilly in anticipation and glee. The rest of the evening was spent planning, learning the correct charms, and talking about other things. They shared the latest rumors that the had heard, and spent the time just lounging. Sirius was almost all the way back to his normal self. Not in appearance, to be sure, but in character. He was cracking new jokes and smiling his old smile. Everyone began to feel better than they had in the past week or so. But there was still something in the back of their minds that was nagging. They still didn't know much (not enough) about the attack. When would they learn, if ever? Did Sirius know anything else, anything that would help? Questions filled all of their heads, but they pushed them to the back, deciding that now was not the time to ask.
The next morning they woke bright and early to head to the Great Hall. They were some of the first people there for the first time.
Midway through breakfast, if you looked closely, you would see them all drawing wands from underneath their cloaks and holding them steady beneath the table. They were all pointed in the same direction as the muttered quite a few charms at once.
There was a sudden outburst at the Slytherin table as two seventh years jumped up from their chairs. One, with pale hair and a permanent sneer on his face, was wearing a nice, green, polka dot dress, complete with ruffles, a matching light green hat, purse, and shoes. He was clutching a fluffy pink teddy bear, and his thumb was in his mouth. He struggled to pull it out, but the charm held it in. The other greasy, black- haired boy looked quite similar, except that he was in a stripped dress, was holding a lumpy purple bear, and he was singing to it, not able to stop himself.
Everyone in the Hall burst into laughter, even some of the teachers (not able to help themselves). Dumbledore was one of those. He threw his head back and cackled with mirth. Then, suppressing himself, he rose and said, "I know who is responsible for this little episode. Would they please report to my office after the meal?" he laughed once more. "And you two may want to head up to the Hospital Wing. Those are strong charms, Madam Pomfrey will remove them for you before you head to class." The two Slytherins scurried out of the Hall is quickly as humanly possible, while everyone else continued to roar with laughter.
After breakfast, the six Gryffindors headed to Dumbledore's office straight away. They seated themselves inside, waiting for him to arrive. Fawkes was sitting in his cage, looking horrible. He burst into flames and Chloe yelped. The boys laughed.
"It's okay. Fawkes is a phoenix. No harm done." Just then, Dumbledore walked in. He smiled when he saw them.
"While I strongly discourage all pranks, and I'm sorry you did that, I must congratulate you six on a good prank. I have to say, I don't remember the last time I've laughed so hard. Now, for your punishment. Detention, of course, for all of you, this weekend. No Hogsmeade for you." They groaned. But it had been worth it, for sure. "And, I think fifty points from Gryffindor should do it. I don't suggest you try anything else. Well, you're dismissed." His aqua-colored eyes twinkled as he shooed them out his office.
"Well, it could have been worse, I think." Said James as they headed to their first class.
"Most definitely. It's a good thing Dumbledore has a sense of humor and liked the prank. Or we'd be dead." Remus paused. "Too bad be can't go to Hogsmeade though, I'm running low on supplies. And we probably shouldn't sneak out just yet." He added in a lower voice to the other Marauders.
That evening, in the common room, they plopped down into chairs, once more worn out. Other Gryffindors congratulated them for their prank in passing. It was then that Jennifer decided she should ask a few questions.
"Sirius, I know you probably don't want to talk about it, but we're all wondering what you were questioned about by that…guy."
He sighed as his smile faded. "It's okay. I know I should probably tell you everything he asked. And Dumbledore wishes to know, no doubt. If this man was a Death Eater, I hope what I say can get him caught." He paused, scratching his head and running a hand through his almost-black hair. "He asked me many questions, I can't remember what exactly what, but I'll do my best. Let's start at the beginning. I came up here to grab something from my trunk, when a man met me here and stopped me…"
A/N: Another chapter gone! In the next, I'm not sure if I'll include this whole conversation or just enough of it so that you understand what's going on. You'll see, I suppose. ;) Thanks again to my readers and reviewers; you are what keep me writing!
~Emily~
A/N: Alright, so I said I wasn't going to update until 65 reviews! But I wrote this yesterday and decided I might as well go ahead and post it now whether I got the reviews or not. I'm really not going to post the next chapter until 65 though, but most likely that will be easy (hopefully!).
Thanks to the following people for their wonderful reviews:
Shining Star- Thanks so much! I'm glad you like the story!
Sirena Oculare- I appreciate it! Thanks a lot, and I hope you keep reading!
SAKURAnTOKYO- Thanks again! I've really loved all of your reviews! And about Peter…you'll see what happens. I originally planned to put it in this chapter, but it would have made it too long.
Chapter 14- Sirius Returns (lol, I had no clue what to call this chapter, so this will just have to do!)
Sirius was slowly recovering. After a few days had passed, a reluctant Madam Pomfrey agreed that he could leave. The Marauders and the others planned a party for his arrival back in the Gryffindor common room. Well, the Marauders minus Peter, who had yet to return. (A/N: And I'm not especially keen to let him come back! I really don't like him at all! Too bad I can't kill him off right now, but he's needed for the plot.)
Jennifer arrived, Sirius leaning on her shoulder, at the portrait hole. She entered and pulled him inside.
"Surprise!" all of Gryffindor jumped out from their hiding places. Music started up and snacks were served. Sirius stood stunned, his eyes slightly moist.
"Aww, you didn't need to do all this for little old me. I'm honored!"
"As well you should be Padfoot! You know we all love you!" James and the rest had arrived at their side, grinning profusely.
"How's it going, old guy?" Chloe brushed a strand of dark hair away from her face with the hand that wasn't being held by Remus.
"Oh, you know, same old stuff. Now, let's see what kind of food you got me." He smacked his lips. The Hospital Wing food had not been the best, after all.
"And after we've stuffed our faces, I think a few games are in order. Is that okay with you?" Remus asked as they headed for the table of food.
"Nothing ever sounded better in my life. Thank you! For all of it!" Sirius was still beaming, he was very pleased with his party.
The night proceeded and was fun-filled. After eating until they felt like blimps, they sprawled out into chairs near the fire.
"Ohhh." Chloe groaned. "I'm soo stuffed. I couldn't possibly swallow another bite."
"Me neither. I don't think I've ever been this full in my life." Lily decided that she wouldn't move from the spot she was in unless it was completely necessary. Remus laughed, his gray eyes turning to them.
"I don't believe we'll be wanting to play any active games right now. Let's say our game of Truth or Dare is postponed until further notice."
"Definitely. I don't believe I would survive a dare in this state." James replied. "All I want is to sit here. Forever, if that's what I need to do."
With much grunting and effort, Jennifer turned her body to face Sirius. "As this is your party, it's you I should ask. What do you propose that we do?"
"Me? Well, I feel like sitting like a lazy slug and talking for awhile. After that, we'll see how it goes."
"Fair enough."
Just then James burst out laughing, and everyone turned to him in surprise. "I…(laughter) just remembered… (more laughter)… a prank idea I came up with to pull on Malfoy and Snape. I forgot to tell you guys about it, but I suppose you'd like to hear now?"
"Please. Do go on."
He laughed again. "Well, I got the idea first while I was sitting in Potions the other day. I got the strangest image of the two of them standing in green dresses, one polka dotted, and one striped (A/N: My little sister was watching Blue's Clues when I wrote this.). I spent the rest of the class period adding details. Of course, we have to do it in front of the whole school. Otherwise it's just not as entertaining. So, what do you think? And it needs something more, any suggestions?" Hearing this, they all grinned evilly in anticipation and glee. The rest of the evening was spent planning, learning the correct charms, and talking about other things. They shared the latest rumors that the had heard, and spent the time just lounging. Sirius was almost all the way back to his normal self. Not in appearance, to be sure, but in character. He was cracking new jokes and smiling his old smile. Everyone began to feel better than they had in the past week or so. But there was still something in the back of their minds that was nagging. They still didn't know much (not enough) about the attack. When would they learn, if ever? Did Sirius know anything else, anything that would help? Questions filled all of their heads, but they pushed them to the back, deciding that now was not the time to ask.
The next morning they woke bright and early to head to the Great Hall. They were some of the first people there for the first time.
Midway through breakfast, if you looked closely, you would see them all drawing wands from underneath their cloaks and holding them steady beneath the table. They were all pointed in the same direction as the muttered quite a few charms at once.
There was a sudden outburst at the Slytherin table as two seventh years jumped up from their chairs. One, with pale hair and a permanent sneer on his face, was wearing a nice, green, polka dot dress, complete with ruffles, a matching light green hat, purse, and shoes. He was clutching a fluffy pink teddy bear, and his thumb was in his mouth. He struggled to pull it out, but the charm held it in. The other greasy, black- haired boy looked quite similar, except that he was in a stripped dress, was holding a lumpy purple bear, and he was singing to it, not able to stop himself.
Everyone in the Hall burst into laughter, even some of the teachers (not able to help themselves). Dumbledore was one of those. He threw his head back and cackled with mirth. Then, suppressing himself, he rose and said, "I know who is responsible for this little episode. Would they please report to my office after the meal?" he laughed once more. "And you two may want to head up to the Hospital Wing. Those are strong charms, Madam Pomfrey will remove them for you before you head to class." The two Slytherins scurried out of the Hall is quickly as humanly possible, while everyone else continued to roar with laughter.
After breakfast, the six Gryffindors headed to Dumbledore's office straight away. They seated themselves inside, waiting for him to arrive. Fawkes was sitting in his cage, looking horrible. He burst into flames and Chloe yelped. The boys laughed.
"It's okay. Fawkes is a phoenix. No harm done." Just then, Dumbledore walked in. He smiled when he saw them.
"While I strongly discourage all pranks, and I'm sorry you did that, I must congratulate you six on a good prank. I have to say, I don't remember the last time I've laughed so hard. Now, for your punishment. Detention, of course, for all of you, this weekend. No Hogsmeade for you." They groaned. But it had been worth it, for sure. "And, I think fifty points from Gryffindor should do it. I don't suggest you try anything else. Well, you're dismissed." His aqua-colored eyes twinkled as he shooed them out his office.
"Well, it could have been worse, I think." Said James as they headed to their first class.
"Most definitely. It's a good thing Dumbledore has a sense of humor and liked the prank. Or we'd be dead." Remus paused. "Too bad be can't go to Hogsmeade though, I'm running low on supplies. And we probably shouldn't sneak out just yet." He added in a lower voice to the other Marauders.
That evening, in the common room, they plopped down into chairs, once more worn out. Other Gryffindors congratulated them for their prank in passing. It was then that Jennifer decided she should ask a few questions.
"Sirius, I know you probably don't want to talk about it, but we're all wondering what you were questioned about by that…guy."
He sighed as his smile faded. "It's okay. I know I should probably tell you everything he asked. And Dumbledore wishes to know, no doubt. If this man was a Death Eater, I hope what I say can get him caught." He paused, scratching his head and running a hand through his almost-black hair. "He asked me many questions, I can't remember what exactly what, but I'll do my best. Let's start at the beginning. I came up here to grab something from my trunk, when a man met me here and stopped me…"
A/N: Another chapter gone! In the next, I'm not sure if I'll include this whole conversation or just enough of it so that you understand what's going on. You'll see, I suppose. ;) Thanks again to my readers and reviewers; you are what keep me writing!
~Emily~