Disclaimer: Anything you recognize does not belong to me it belongs to JK
Rowling. I'm not making anything from this, so please don't sue me.
A/N: Thanks for all the reviews - Greatly appreciated! - Hope you like this chapter? Glad that every one is still enjoying reading my little old story.
Reminder that for all you over 18's if you want to find out how Annie cheered for Danny (from the last chapter) you can find it under Love, life & Quidditch uncut chapter 6, don't forget this is NC17.
Also a big thanks to my Beta - Allie, great job.
CONFESSIONS
The walk to the hospital wing that day was the longest in the history of the Marauders, they were all accustomed to this trip, they had made it often enough. Manoeuvring the staircases, waiting for them to change Remus had felt the hand of one of his friends' fall upon his shoulder on more than one occasion. The support for him was unwavering but in the end, would it be enough, would it help him to survive if she turned away from him a heavy sigh escaped as he thought probably not.
Reaching the top of the last staircase, only a short length of corridor now separated the three boys from the entrance to the infirmary. Remus stopped dead in his tracks, his gaze seemed to become fixed and steadfast, his senses were on overload. He may have been glad of his werewolf added extras earlier in the day but now he cursed them, for he could smell the pain and fear that was sliding under the door of the bloody room and he knew it was his fault.
James quickly shot a glance to Sirius and in unison the two boys moved to Remus's side, so that their shoulders were touching. James placed his hand once more on Remus's shoulder and said, "Don't forget we are all in this together."
All Remus could manage was a nod before they walked the last few steps to the infirmary. Entering the room the boys noticed that only one bed had the curtains drawn around it but just as they reached it Professor Dumbledore stepped out from behind the covering. The look etched on his face made Remus lurch forward slightly and he clutched his stomach hoping that its contents would stay put.
Noting the reaction Professor Dumbledore stretched out a hand to steady the boy. A slight shake of his head he said, "Please don't worry, Miss Court is going to be fine. A little sore but nothing that cannot be healed."
Relief flooded the young werewolf's features and looking up into the gentle face of the headmaster he said, "Please professor can we go in and see her?"
Taking in the emotions displayed on the faces of the young Gryffindor's Professor Dumbledore gave a small nod and followed it with a warning, "I must ask that Miss Court is not upset in any way, at this moment. Also I will need to speak to the three of you later about the incident." Stepping to one side Professor Dumbledore indicated that they could enter and one last check of the three boys he thought yes I will no doubt need to talk to them. Shaking his head slightly he thought Gryffindor's really do wear their hearts on their sleeves and unfortunately their guilt.
Moving into the close confines of the curtained bed James went to stand behind Lily and gently lay his arms around her neck placing a soft kiss on her cheek. At the other side of the bed a similar scene was being played out between Sirius and Marie, who were now wrapped up in a tight embrace. Annie stood silently watching her friends and wishing yet again that Danny had been a Gryffindor so that he would be here with her. Turning her head Lily noticed that Remus seemed to be frozen at the foot of the bed, giving James a confused look she let go of Aggy's hand and standing moved over to Remus. Even as Lily approached him, Remus could do nothing but stare at the sight in front of him.
He took in every bruise that was visible and his heart ached at he thought of what he could not see due to the blankets covering her. A hand tentatively touched his arm causing Remus to flinch at the contact but the hand ignored the reaction and continued until a pair of arms found their way around his shoulders and then his neck. Through out this Remus had remained unmoved that was until a voice whispered, "Remus she will be fine, Madame Pomfrey will be back in a minute to heal the cuts and bruises."
The only thing she could think of was to pull Remus to the chair she had been sitting in. After a little manoeuvring Lily managed to get him next to Aggy but his response was totally baffling her, this was not the Remus Lupin she knew and she mouthed silently to James, "What is going on?"
Shaking his head James returned with the same silent communication, "Later."
Eyeing him suspiciously she gave him a curt nod before turning back to the problem in front of her. Picking up Remus's hand she laid it on the bed and quickly placed Aggy's in it before Remus could withdraw. At the contact Aggy had instinctively closed her fingers around the sandy haired boy's and that was it, his resolve broke.
Arms still around Marie, Sirius took hold of Annie's sleeve and motioned for her to follow him but noticing the sorrow in her eyes he dropped his hand into hers squeezing it as he guided her out of the curtained area. Watching Sirius exit with the other two girls James took hold of Lily's hand and nodded in the direction of the others.
All this went on around a stunned and dazed Remus Lupin who had not taken his eyes off the prone figure lay in the bed in front of him. Groggy eyes opened to see a tear stained face staring at her and a smile twitched over her lips before she said, "Come closer." As she realized he was not moving she asked, "Please?" and her hand moved to the sleeve of his robe tugging on it.
That one desperate movement was enough to bring him back into reality and before he knew what he was doing he had her in his arms not giving a damn about anything but holding her. His tears fell silently into her hair as his hand rubbed slow circles on her back. Aggy buried her face into his soft black school robes and she breathed in the warm comforting smell that made her feel safe, cared for and above all loved.
A few moments later, Lily poked her head around the curtain and smiled at the sight. She knew that her best friend was a strong witch but she also knew that the one thing Aggy Court depended on more than anything else was Remus Lupin. Without him, she was a lost cause. Letting the curtain fall back into place Lily moved back into James arms and whispered, "Everything is going to be alright now."
James shot a worried look over at Sirius who grimaced in return and the only other to notice this exchange was Annie who thought oh shit, what have they been up to. Oh this can't be good.
Five minutes later Madame Pomfrey, carrying a small tray of potions, and Professor Dumbledore stepped back into the infirmary. Lily panicked at the thought of Madame Pomfrey finding Remus in bed holding Aggy and she quickly moved to intercept the medi-witch.
Professor Dumbledore smiled at her and placing his hand on her shoulder said, "It is quite alright Miss Evans, I'm sure everything will be fine."
Lily stepped to the side and Madame Pomfrey was soon drawing the curtains back from around the bed to reveal Aggy wrapped tightly in Remus's arms in what seemed to be a very peaceful sleep. Madame Pomfrey turned to say something but was stopped in her tracks as she caught the familiar twinkle in Albus's eye.
Looking at him she managed to say, "Love may be all well and good but I need to heal her physical wounds before they scare and I can do nothing about them or do you want the poor girl to have to live with that scare on her face?"
Albus smiled at the exasperation in the medi-witch's voice before saying, "Yes Poppy." Moving to the side of the bed he tapped Remus on the arm, "You can come back in a little while, Mr. Lupin, but Madame Pomfrey needs to treat Miss Court."
Placing a kiss on her forehead Remus disentangled himself from Aggy's arms and sliding off the bed moved over to his friends. Professor Dumbledore closed the curtain around the medi-witch and her patient before turning to them and saying, "If you could follow me up to my office I would like to find out your versions of the event that led to Miss Court having to he hospitalized."
As they followed the headmaster to his office, three of them had only one thought reverberating around their minds, 'Oh shit.'
Before they knew it they found themselves sat in chairs facing the headmasters desk. This was not an unfamiliar scene for some of them as they had seen the inside of this office on more than one occasion.
Lily started and slowly recounted the events of the potion class to him. She told how Peter had been sent to the hospital wing and at that a small amount of guilt had crossed a few faces as they realized that they had never stopped to ask how their other friend was all the time they had been in the infirmary.
Professor Dumbledore asked if Annie or Marie would like to add anything to Lily's account of the incident in the potion's classroom both shook their heads. He now looked at each boy individually before asking, "Is there anything any of you would like to add?"
Remus closed his eyes before dropping his head into his hands, Sirius looked like he was about to be sick and the colour drained out of James face.
Taking a deep breath James nodded and slowly he told of the prank they had pulled on the Slytherin's.
As he finished he caught the expression on Lily's face that told him that whatever punishment the headmaster gave them would be nothing compared to the nightmare he and the others would face once they were back in the common room.
Professor Dumbledore bestowed each boy with a look that told them he couldn't believe their level of stupidity and how disappointed he was in their serious lack of judgement. He also noted the deadly glares that were radiating from Lily Evans, Marie Devon and Annie Ryan. But most of all he felt sorrow for the young werewolf who he had had to fight for so hard to even get him admitted to the school. This boy who was desperate to fit in and be loved had inadvertently caused harm to the girl he obviously cared for very much.
Surveying them one last time Professor Dumbledore cleared his throat and said, "Thank you for coming down and explaining what happened. If you lady's wouldn't mind returning to the common room I would like a word with these gentlemen in private." Waiting for the girls to leave before continuing it was all he could do to not chuckle at the glare Lily Evans had given James Potter or the look Marie Devon had shot at Sirius Black. As the door clicked shut Professor Dumbledore shook his head again at the remaining students.
After a moments silence he said, "I am sorry to say that I am very disappointed at this display of childish and some what dangerous behaviour. Unfortunately I feel that a full week of detention with Professor Greenhalgh is in order for both Mr. Potter and Mr. Lupin and fifty points will be deducted from Gryffindor."
At this Sirius looked up somewhat confused and said, "What about me Professor?"
Raising his eyebrows Professor Dumbledore said, "I believe you are already serving detention Mr. Black but, you will also serve a week with Professor Greenhalgh." Letting the silence hang in the air for a moment before he continued Professor Dumbledore said, "You may return to the common room." Noticing the grimaces of pain float over two of the faces he couldn't help himself and said "May I advise you cast a protection charm before you get back to Gryffindor tower, I have a feeling you are going to need one."
Groaning James replied for them all, "You really have no idea how true that is, if we do not appear at dinner tonight you can be rest assured it is because Lily has killed us all."
As the boys stood to leave Professor Dumbledore had one last parting comment, "Mr. Lupin you may want to go to the infirmary instead of the common room. Miss Court will need all the support she can get and please tell her I will be up to see later this evening to get her version of events and hopefully find out who is responsible for her injuries."
Remus nodded at the headmaster before exiting the room. Slowly they made their way back through the castle none of them speaking, for Remus the silence was a killer as it left him alone with his thoughts. Finally they arrived at the junction where Remus needed to turn left for the hospital wing and James and Sirius turn right for the tower. The three friends stood looking at one another for a moment before they parted company.
******
Hand trembling slightly as he reached for the door handle to the infirmary, closing his eyes Remus inhaled slowly and then pushed the door open. Raising his head as he walked into the room Remus came eye to eye with Madame Pomfrey who rolled her eyes at him. Moving to walk past him she paused and said, "Professor Dumbledore said I should be expecting you to return," her tone softened as she carried on, "Remus she is going to be fine. Why don't you go into her, she is awake now and I'll check in on you later."
Not able to look the medi-witch in the face Remus nodded that he had understood but was stopped in his tracks as he felt her hand touch his face forcing him to meet her gaze. Poppy had seen this boy go through more nightmares than all the other students put together yet he never complained just silently accepted his fate. After six years of taking him down to the shrieking shack every full moon and then returning him to the infirmary for treatment of self inflicted wounds from his transformation, Poppy couldn't help but hold the boy in a special place in her heart.
The pain in his eyes at this moment was far greater then any she had seen before. Giving him a small smile she reassured him again, "Remus she is going to be just fine," and rubbing he thumb along his cheek she said, "Stay as long as you like, just don't tell anyone I let you." Pushing him in the direction of the closed curtain Poppy headed back to her office.
Aggy smiled to herself as she heard the medi-witch talking just outside the curtains surrounding her bed. Running a hand through her hair Aggy waited for the familiar face of Remus to appear through the curtain.
Finally pushing the curtain back he found Aggy sitting up and smiling at him. Slipping through the gap Remus moved to her side, pulling the chair closer to the bed and sat down taking her hand in his. Through out all this he had managed to avoid making eye contact with her, knowing she would see the guilt shinning in them.
Confused by his behaviour Aggy said, "Remus," still not getting the response she wanted Aggy tightened her grip on his hand slightly saying, "I'm alright, you know. I can come back to the tower tomorrow," still he didn't look at her. Starting to feel a little panicky Aggy said, "Remus, what's going on?"
Running his free hand through his hair he muttered, "I'm so sorry."
Still none the wiser Aggy said, "Remus, look at me, please?"
Raising his head and in a soft tone he said, "I'm so sorry, if I had know it would end like this I would have never done it," pulling his hand from hers he went to stand up as he said, "It is probably best if I go. Professor Dumbledore will be up soon he wants to talk to you about who attacked you."
Sitting forward sharply Aggy managed to grab hold of his robe as she winced at the sharp pin in her side from the sudden movement, muttering, "Shit that hurt."
At the sound of her in pain Remus swiftly turned and his arms were around her helping her to rest back against the pillows. He watched her face as she got back into a comfortable position sighing as he saw relief spread across her features. It was at this point that he realized that she still had hold of his robes.
Looking up at him she said, "Remus what are you talking about?"
It took a little more coaxing before she finally got the story of the prank out of him. Rolling her eyes at him she said, "Remus, the only thing you are guilty of is being a childish pratt." Then she realized he blamed himself for her injuries and the pieces fell into place. Pulling him closer to her so that he was sat on the edge of her bed, Aggy took his face in her hands saying, "Please tell me you are not blaming yourself for this?" without waiting for a reply she carried on, "Remus I love you. I know that you would never intentionally hurt me. It was a stupid prank you could not have known it would turn out this way."
Leaning forward so that their foreheads were together he said, "But if we hadn't done it, you wouldn't be here now would you?"
Sighing she said, "No probably not but, you have to believe me when I say that I don't blame you for this and I never will." Trying to add weight to her words Aggy moved so that her mouth covered his and kissed him in such a way that left him with no doubt to her sincerity or her love for him.
Taking her in his arms Remus lay on his side pulling her to him so that her head rested in the crook of his shoulder and he placed a kiss on top of her hair. Not trusting him self to speak Remus just held her. They stayed this way until the curtain twitched announcing the arrival of Professor Dumbledore, who seeing the teenagers smiled and said, "If it is convenient I would like to talk to you about what you remember about today Miss Court?"
Remus helped her to sit up and made to leave but Aggy caught his hand saying, "Professor is it ok for Remus to stay, please?"
Smiling at the request he said, "Yes of course. When you are ready, could you tell me everything about what you remember, starting with the incident in the potion classroom."
Holding onto Remus's hand, Aggy slowly recounted her version of what had happened in the potion's classroom. Telling them about Malfoy bumping into her and then her feeling a hand grab her and pull her out of the classroom in the confusion. How she had been dragged down a corridor and finally pushed into a room and the door closing.
Aggy closed her eyes for a moment and a tear slipped down her face as she went on to tell them about the attack and how she had been punched, kicked and slapped.
Professor Dumbledore with a grave expression said, "Miss Court do you know who attacked you?"
Both Remus and Professor Dumbledore were now watching her intently as she shook her head saying, "No I never got to see his face."
Seeing a flicker in her eyes Professor Dumbledore said, "Aggy are you sure you have no idea who could have done this to you?"
Again Aggy shook her head as an image came into her mind.
***Flashback***
Malfoy reached down grabbing her by the front of her robes and pulled her face close to his as he said, "One word and you can kiss the mudblood good bye" sneering at her he added, "And I promise you she won't get off so lightly."
Staring into his face the last thing she saw was his fist as it speeded towards her for one last time before the darkness over took her.
******
Shaking his head lightly Professor Dumbledore said, "Ok that will do for now but if you remember anything else, please come to see me." And with that he smiled sadly at them before saying, "I hope you are feeling better soon Miss Court, goodnight."
Once again alone together Remus pulled Aggy into his arms, running his hand over her hair he said, "Aggy are you sure, you don't know who did this?"
Tears now flowing down her face at the anguish she felt, she shook her head again before burying it into the front of his robes.
Peeping into the secluded area sometime later Madame Pomfrey smiled to her self at the sight of the sleeping teenagers before going back to her office thinking well maybe Albus is right after all.
******
Getting back to the tower, Annie was relieved to find Danny leaning against the wall next to the portrait. He had heard via the school grapevine about Remus running through the halls carrying Aggy in his arms and being followed by the other seventh year Gryffindor's. Annie soon found herself in his warm embrace and accepted all the support he could give her. As the portrait opened the four of them entered the common room and headed for the sofa in front of the fire to await the return of James, Sirius and Remus.
It wasn't that long before the portrait swung open and James and Sirius walked through into the common room. It seemed they were right to be apprehensive as the look on both Lily and Marie's faces told them they had gone to far this time.
The single word, Potter, screamed from the mouth of Lily Evans was enough to cause the common room to empty of everyone but the seventh years. Confused first years being dragged along by older students who had been witnesses to the temper of Lily in previous episodes.
Under his breath James muttered to Sirius, "Oh shit, I've not seen her this mad in ages."
All Sirius could manage was a nod as Marie caught his eye and he winced. Slowly Sirius and James found them selves standing directly in front of their respective girlfriends.
Arms folded Lily glared at James as she hissed at him, "James, what the hell were you thinking? You're the bloody head boy, not some bloody idiot you risks the safety of others," pausing for breath she carried on, "I just can't believe you could be so stupid. To start with Zabini could have been seriously hurt or may be even killed."
A hand reached to touch her but Lily just slapped it away saying, "Oh no you don't James." Throwing her hands in the air in frustration at him Lily said, "You know the trouble we've had with the Slytherin's since Halloween and you just have to hand Aggy to them on a bloody plate." Anger shot from her eyes at him as she said, "Aggy is up in the Infirmary all because you morons had to throw one last prank before Christmas."
Before she could start again James quickly said, "Lily I'm sorry. What else can I say, it was stupid I know but there's not a lot I can do about it know," risking everything he took a step closer to her saying, "You have got to believe me when I say if I could take it back I would. Lily you know that we would never hurt any of you. Please Lily, you have to believe how sorry we are."
"James that's just it, you didn't think before you did it, did you? James you are supposed to be head boy, you're supposed to be responsible, not pulling juvenile stunts," Lily said in a lower voice. Huffing at him Lily sat down on the sofa putting her head in her hands muttering, "Your such an idiot James."
James moved closer to the fireplace knowing now was not a good time to try and approach Lily again, she would need to cool off for a bit before he would be able to get any closer to her.
Through out Lily's tirade Marie had stood motionless, just staring at Sirius hurt shining from her eyes and unable to hold it in any longer a tear rolled down her cheek. This snapped Sirius from his dazed state, they knew they were in for a rough reception but this was beyond what he was expecting.
Moving closer Sirius attempted to wipe the tear from her face but as she flinched away from his touch he quickly dropped his hand. Marie surveyed his face for a second before she turned and started to walk away.
Marie felt a hand on her arm, stopping she very carefully removed it and turning to look Sirius dead in the eye she said, "I'm not sure if I will ever trust you again. You used me Sirius. I hope your little escapade was worth it."
Sirius glanced from his girlfriend to his friends but they were just staring with the same shocked expressions at the couple. Turning back Sirius watched as Marie calmly walked up the staircase and disappeared.
Whirling around Sirius stood mouth open staring at Lily, hoping for some sort of divine intervention. James was still leaning against the fireplace stunned at what he had just witnessed and Annie who had been curled in Danny's lap raised her head to stare at her friends.
Eventually Lily looked up at Sirius and standing up she said, "I have no idea what's going on but, I wouldn't count your chickens Sirius. That's the most pissed off I have ever seen her." Glancing at Annie, it wasn't long before both girls were heading up the stairs leaving behind them a devastated Sirius Black.
******
A/N: Thanks for reading. Coming up next - More problems for Sirius, all wrapped up in Christmas.
Don't forget to click the button and let me know what you think.
Madame Padfoot
P.S The Lady Lillian - I found the notes to the Valdeene Legacy and I'm working on the next chapter, expect it somewhere in the next week
A/N: Thanks for all the reviews - Greatly appreciated! - Hope you like this chapter? Glad that every one is still enjoying reading my little old story.
Reminder that for all you over 18's if you want to find out how Annie cheered for Danny (from the last chapter) you can find it under Love, life & Quidditch uncut chapter 6, don't forget this is NC17.
Also a big thanks to my Beta - Allie, great job.
CONFESSIONS
The walk to the hospital wing that day was the longest in the history of the Marauders, they were all accustomed to this trip, they had made it often enough. Manoeuvring the staircases, waiting for them to change Remus had felt the hand of one of his friends' fall upon his shoulder on more than one occasion. The support for him was unwavering but in the end, would it be enough, would it help him to survive if she turned away from him a heavy sigh escaped as he thought probably not.
Reaching the top of the last staircase, only a short length of corridor now separated the three boys from the entrance to the infirmary. Remus stopped dead in his tracks, his gaze seemed to become fixed and steadfast, his senses were on overload. He may have been glad of his werewolf added extras earlier in the day but now he cursed them, for he could smell the pain and fear that was sliding under the door of the bloody room and he knew it was his fault.
James quickly shot a glance to Sirius and in unison the two boys moved to Remus's side, so that their shoulders were touching. James placed his hand once more on Remus's shoulder and said, "Don't forget we are all in this together."
All Remus could manage was a nod before they walked the last few steps to the infirmary. Entering the room the boys noticed that only one bed had the curtains drawn around it but just as they reached it Professor Dumbledore stepped out from behind the covering. The look etched on his face made Remus lurch forward slightly and he clutched his stomach hoping that its contents would stay put.
Noting the reaction Professor Dumbledore stretched out a hand to steady the boy. A slight shake of his head he said, "Please don't worry, Miss Court is going to be fine. A little sore but nothing that cannot be healed."
Relief flooded the young werewolf's features and looking up into the gentle face of the headmaster he said, "Please professor can we go in and see her?"
Taking in the emotions displayed on the faces of the young Gryffindor's Professor Dumbledore gave a small nod and followed it with a warning, "I must ask that Miss Court is not upset in any way, at this moment. Also I will need to speak to the three of you later about the incident." Stepping to one side Professor Dumbledore indicated that they could enter and one last check of the three boys he thought yes I will no doubt need to talk to them. Shaking his head slightly he thought Gryffindor's really do wear their hearts on their sleeves and unfortunately their guilt.
Moving into the close confines of the curtained bed James went to stand behind Lily and gently lay his arms around her neck placing a soft kiss on her cheek. At the other side of the bed a similar scene was being played out between Sirius and Marie, who were now wrapped up in a tight embrace. Annie stood silently watching her friends and wishing yet again that Danny had been a Gryffindor so that he would be here with her. Turning her head Lily noticed that Remus seemed to be frozen at the foot of the bed, giving James a confused look she let go of Aggy's hand and standing moved over to Remus. Even as Lily approached him, Remus could do nothing but stare at the sight in front of him.
He took in every bruise that was visible and his heart ached at he thought of what he could not see due to the blankets covering her. A hand tentatively touched his arm causing Remus to flinch at the contact but the hand ignored the reaction and continued until a pair of arms found their way around his shoulders and then his neck. Through out this Remus had remained unmoved that was until a voice whispered, "Remus she will be fine, Madame Pomfrey will be back in a minute to heal the cuts and bruises."
The only thing she could think of was to pull Remus to the chair she had been sitting in. After a little manoeuvring Lily managed to get him next to Aggy but his response was totally baffling her, this was not the Remus Lupin she knew and she mouthed silently to James, "What is going on?"
Shaking his head James returned with the same silent communication, "Later."
Eyeing him suspiciously she gave him a curt nod before turning back to the problem in front of her. Picking up Remus's hand she laid it on the bed and quickly placed Aggy's in it before Remus could withdraw. At the contact Aggy had instinctively closed her fingers around the sandy haired boy's and that was it, his resolve broke.
Arms still around Marie, Sirius took hold of Annie's sleeve and motioned for her to follow him but noticing the sorrow in her eyes he dropped his hand into hers squeezing it as he guided her out of the curtained area. Watching Sirius exit with the other two girls James took hold of Lily's hand and nodded in the direction of the others.
All this went on around a stunned and dazed Remus Lupin who had not taken his eyes off the prone figure lay in the bed in front of him. Groggy eyes opened to see a tear stained face staring at her and a smile twitched over her lips before she said, "Come closer." As she realized he was not moving she asked, "Please?" and her hand moved to the sleeve of his robe tugging on it.
That one desperate movement was enough to bring him back into reality and before he knew what he was doing he had her in his arms not giving a damn about anything but holding her. His tears fell silently into her hair as his hand rubbed slow circles on her back. Aggy buried her face into his soft black school robes and she breathed in the warm comforting smell that made her feel safe, cared for and above all loved.
A few moments later, Lily poked her head around the curtain and smiled at the sight. She knew that her best friend was a strong witch but she also knew that the one thing Aggy Court depended on more than anything else was Remus Lupin. Without him, she was a lost cause. Letting the curtain fall back into place Lily moved back into James arms and whispered, "Everything is going to be alright now."
James shot a worried look over at Sirius who grimaced in return and the only other to notice this exchange was Annie who thought oh shit, what have they been up to. Oh this can't be good.
Five minutes later Madame Pomfrey, carrying a small tray of potions, and Professor Dumbledore stepped back into the infirmary. Lily panicked at the thought of Madame Pomfrey finding Remus in bed holding Aggy and she quickly moved to intercept the medi-witch.
Professor Dumbledore smiled at her and placing his hand on her shoulder said, "It is quite alright Miss Evans, I'm sure everything will be fine."
Lily stepped to the side and Madame Pomfrey was soon drawing the curtains back from around the bed to reveal Aggy wrapped tightly in Remus's arms in what seemed to be a very peaceful sleep. Madame Pomfrey turned to say something but was stopped in her tracks as she caught the familiar twinkle in Albus's eye.
Looking at him she managed to say, "Love may be all well and good but I need to heal her physical wounds before they scare and I can do nothing about them or do you want the poor girl to have to live with that scare on her face?"
Albus smiled at the exasperation in the medi-witch's voice before saying, "Yes Poppy." Moving to the side of the bed he tapped Remus on the arm, "You can come back in a little while, Mr. Lupin, but Madame Pomfrey needs to treat Miss Court."
Placing a kiss on her forehead Remus disentangled himself from Aggy's arms and sliding off the bed moved over to his friends. Professor Dumbledore closed the curtain around the medi-witch and her patient before turning to them and saying, "If you could follow me up to my office I would like to find out your versions of the event that led to Miss Court having to he hospitalized."
As they followed the headmaster to his office, three of them had only one thought reverberating around their minds, 'Oh shit.'
Before they knew it they found themselves sat in chairs facing the headmasters desk. This was not an unfamiliar scene for some of them as they had seen the inside of this office on more than one occasion.
Lily started and slowly recounted the events of the potion class to him. She told how Peter had been sent to the hospital wing and at that a small amount of guilt had crossed a few faces as they realized that they had never stopped to ask how their other friend was all the time they had been in the infirmary.
Professor Dumbledore asked if Annie or Marie would like to add anything to Lily's account of the incident in the potion's classroom both shook their heads. He now looked at each boy individually before asking, "Is there anything any of you would like to add?"
Remus closed his eyes before dropping his head into his hands, Sirius looked like he was about to be sick and the colour drained out of James face.
Taking a deep breath James nodded and slowly he told of the prank they had pulled on the Slytherin's.
As he finished he caught the expression on Lily's face that told him that whatever punishment the headmaster gave them would be nothing compared to the nightmare he and the others would face once they were back in the common room.
Professor Dumbledore bestowed each boy with a look that told them he couldn't believe their level of stupidity and how disappointed he was in their serious lack of judgement. He also noted the deadly glares that were radiating from Lily Evans, Marie Devon and Annie Ryan. But most of all he felt sorrow for the young werewolf who he had had to fight for so hard to even get him admitted to the school. This boy who was desperate to fit in and be loved had inadvertently caused harm to the girl he obviously cared for very much.
Surveying them one last time Professor Dumbledore cleared his throat and said, "Thank you for coming down and explaining what happened. If you lady's wouldn't mind returning to the common room I would like a word with these gentlemen in private." Waiting for the girls to leave before continuing it was all he could do to not chuckle at the glare Lily Evans had given James Potter or the look Marie Devon had shot at Sirius Black. As the door clicked shut Professor Dumbledore shook his head again at the remaining students.
After a moments silence he said, "I am sorry to say that I am very disappointed at this display of childish and some what dangerous behaviour. Unfortunately I feel that a full week of detention with Professor Greenhalgh is in order for both Mr. Potter and Mr. Lupin and fifty points will be deducted from Gryffindor."
At this Sirius looked up somewhat confused and said, "What about me Professor?"
Raising his eyebrows Professor Dumbledore said, "I believe you are already serving detention Mr. Black but, you will also serve a week with Professor Greenhalgh." Letting the silence hang in the air for a moment before he continued Professor Dumbledore said, "You may return to the common room." Noticing the grimaces of pain float over two of the faces he couldn't help himself and said "May I advise you cast a protection charm before you get back to Gryffindor tower, I have a feeling you are going to need one."
Groaning James replied for them all, "You really have no idea how true that is, if we do not appear at dinner tonight you can be rest assured it is because Lily has killed us all."
As the boys stood to leave Professor Dumbledore had one last parting comment, "Mr. Lupin you may want to go to the infirmary instead of the common room. Miss Court will need all the support she can get and please tell her I will be up to see later this evening to get her version of events and hopefully find out who is responsible for her injuries."
Remus nodded at the headmaster before exiting the room. Slowly they made their way back through the castle none of them speaking, for Remus the silence was a killer as it left him alone with his thoughts. Finally they arrived at the junction where Remus needed to turn left for the hospital wing and James and Sirius turn right for the tower. The three friends stood looking at one another for a moment before they parted company.
******
Hand trembling slightly as he reached for the door handle to the infirmary, closing his eyes Remus inhaled slowly and then pushed the door open. Raising his head as he walked into the room Remus came eye to eye with Madame Pomfrey who rolled her eyes at him. Moving to walk past him she paused and said, "Professor Dumbledore said I should be expecting you to return," her tone softened as she carried on, "Remus she is going to be fine. Why don't you go into her, she is awake now and I'll check in on you later."
Not able to look the medi-witch in the face Remus nodded that he had understood but was stopped in his tracks as he felt her hand touch his face forcing him to meet her gaze. Poppy had seen this boy go through more nightmares than all the other students put together yet he never complained just silently accepted his fate. After six years of taking him down to the shrieking shack every full moon and then returning him to the infirmary for treatment of self inflicted wounds from his transformation, Poppy couldn't help but hold the boy in a special place in her heart.
The pain in his eyes at this moment was far greater then any she had seen before. Giving him a small smile she reassured him again, "Remus she is going to be just fine," and rubbing he thumb along his cheek she said, "Stay as long as you like, just don't tell anyone I let you." Pushing him in the direction of the closed curtain Poppy headed back to her office.
Aggy smiled to herself as she heard the medi-witch talking just outside the curtains surrounding her bed. Running a hand through her hair Aggy waited for the familiar face of Remus to appear through the curtain.
Finally pushing the curtain back he found Aggy sitting up and smiling at him. Slipping through the gap Remus moved to her side, pulling the chair closer to the bed and sat down taking her hand in his. Through out all this he had managed to avoid making eye contact with her, knowing she would see the guilt shinning in them.
Confused by his behaviour Aggy said, "Remus," still not getting the response she wanted Aggy tightened her grip on his hand slightly saying, "I'm alright, you know. I can come back to the tower tomorrow," still he didn't look at her. Starting to feel a little panicky Aggy said, "Remus, what's going on?"
Running his free hand through his hair he muttered, "I'm so sorry."
Still none the wiser Aggy said, "Remus, look at me, please?"
Raising his head and in a soft tone he said, "I'm so sorry, if I had know it would end like this I would have never done it," pulling his hand from hers he went to stand up as he said, "It is probably best if I go. Professor Dumbledore will be up soon he wants to talk to you about who attacked you."
Sitting forward sharply Aggy managed to grab hold of his robe as she winced at the sharp pin in her side from the sudden movement, muttering, "Shit that hurt."
At the sound of her in pain Remus swiftly turned and his arms were around her helping her to rest back against the pillows. He watched her face as she got back into a comfortable position sighing as he saw relief spread across her features. It was at this point that he realized that she still had hold of his robes.
Looking up at him she said, "Remus what are you talking about?"
It took a little more coaxing before she finally got the story of the prank out of him. Rolling her eyes at him she said, "Remus, the only thing you are guilty of is being a childish pratt." Then she realized he blamed himself for her injuries and the pieces fell into place. Pulling him closer to her so that he was sat on the edge of her bed, Aggy took his face in her hands saying, "Please tell me you are not blaming yourself for this?" without waiting for a reply she carried on, "Remus I love you. I know that you would never intentionally hurt me. It was a stupid prank you could not have known it would turn out this way."
Leaning forward so that their foreheads were together he said, "But if we hadn't done it, you wouldn't be here now would you?"
Sighing she said, "No probably not but, you have to believe me when I say that I don't blame you for this and I never will." Trying to add weight to her words Aggy moved so that her mouth covered his and kissed him in such a way that left him with no doubt to her sincerity or her love for him.
Taking her in his arms Remus lay on his side pulling her to him so that her head rested in the crook of his shoulder and he placed a kiss on top of her hair. Not trusting him self to speak Remus just held her. They stayed this way until the curtain twitched announcing the arrival of Professor Dumbledore, who seeing the teenagers smiled and said, "If it is convenient I would like to talk to you about what you remember about today Miss Court?"
Remus helped her to sit up and made to leave but Aggy caught his hand saying, "Professor is it ok for Remus to stay, please?"
Smiling at the request he said, "Yes of course. When you are ready, could you tell me everything about what you remember, starting with the incident in the potion classroom."
Holding onto Remus's hand, Aggy slowly recounted her version of what had happened in the potion's classroom. Telling them about Malfoy bumping into her and then her feeling a hand grab her and pull her out of the classroom in the confusion. How she had been dragged down a corridor and finally pushed into a room and the door closing.
Aggy closed her eyes for a moment and a tear slipped down her face as she went on to tell them about the attack and how she had been punched, kicked and slapped.
Professor Dumbledore with a grave expression said, "Miss Court do you know who attacked you?"
Both Remus and Professor Dumbledore were now watching her intently as she shook her head saying, "No I never got to see his face."
Seeing a flicker in her eyes Professor Dumbledore said, "Aggy are you sure you have no idea who could have done this to you?"
Again Aggy shook her head as an image came into her mind.
***Flashback***
Malfoy reached down grabbing her by the front of her robes and pulled her face close to his as he said, "One word and you can kiss the mudblood good bye" sneering at her he added, "And I promise you she won't get off so lightly."
Staring into his face the last thing she saw was his fist as it speeded towards her for one last time before the darkness over took her.
******
Shaking his head lightly Professor Dumbledore said, "Ok that will do for now but if you remember anything else, please come to see me." And with that he smiled sadly at them before saying, "I hope you are feeling better soon Miss Court, goodnight."
Once again alone together Remus pulled Aggy into his arms, running his hand over her hair he said, "Aggy are you sure, you don't know who did this?"
Tears now flowing down her face at the anguish she felt, she shook her head again before burying it into the front of his robes.
Peeping into the secluded area sometime later Madame Pomfrey smiled to her self at the sight of the sleeping teenagers before going back to her office thinking well maybe Albus is right after all.
******
Getting back to the tower, Annie was relieved to find Danny leaning against the wall next to the portrait. He had heard via the school grapevine about Remus running through the halls carrying Aggy in his arms and being followed by the other seventh year Gryffindor's. Annie soon found herself in his warm embrace and accepted all the support he could give her. As the portrait opened the four of them entered the common room and headed for the sofa in front of the fire to await the return of James, Sirius and Remus.
It wasn't that long before the portrait swung open and James and Sirius walked through into the common room. It seemed they were right to be apprehensive as the look on both Lily and Marie's faces told them they had gone to far this time.
The single word, Potter, screamed from the mouth of Lily Evans was enough to cause the common room to empty of everyone but the seventh years. Confused first years being dragged along by older students who had been witnesses to the temper of Lily in previous episodes.
Under his breath James muttered to Sirius, "Oh shit, I've not seen her this mad in ages."
All Sirius could manage was a nod as Marie caught his eye and he winced. Slowly Sirius and James found them selves standing directly in front of their respective girlfriends.
Arms folded Lily glared at James as she hissed at him, "James, what the hell were you thinking? You're the bloody head boy, not some bloody idiot you risks the safety of others," pausing for breath she carried on, "I just can't believe you could be so stupid. To start with Zabini could have been seriously hurt or may be even killed."
A hand reached to touch her but Lily just slapped it away saying, "Oh no you don't James." Throwing her hands in the air in frustration at him Lily said, "You know the trouble we've had with the Slytherin's since Halloween and you just have to hand Aggy to them on a bloody plate." Anger shot from her eyes at him as she said, "Aggy is up in the Infirmary all because you morons had to throw one last prank before Christmas."
Before she could start again James quickly said, "Lily I'm sorry. What else can I say, it was stupid I know but there's not a lot I can do about it know," risking everything he took a step closer to her saying, "You have got to believe me when I say if I could take it back I would. Lily you know that we would never hurt any of you. Please Lily, you have to believe how sorry we are."
"James that's just it, you didn't think before you did it, did you? James you are supposed to be head boy, you're supposed to be responsible, not pulling juvenile stunts," Lily said in a lower voice. Huffing at him Lily sat down on the sofa putting her head in her hands muttering, "Your such an idiot James."
James moved closer to the fireplace knowing now was not a good time to try and approach Lily again, she would need to cool off for a bit before he would be able to get any closer to her.
Through out Lily's tirade Marie had stood motionless, just staring at Sirius hurt shining from her eyes and unable to hold it in any longer a tear rolled down her cheek. This snapped Sirius from his dazed state, they knew they were in for a rough reception but this was beyond what he was expecting.
Moving closer Sirius attempted to wipe the tear from her face but as she flinched away from his touch he quickly dropped his hand. Marie surveyed his face for a second before she turned and started to walk away.
Marie felt a hand on her arm, stopping she very carefully removed it and turning to look Sirius dead in the eye she said, "I'm not sure if I will ever trust you again. You used me Sirius. I hope your little escapade was worth it."
Sirius glanced from his girlfriend to his friends but they were just staring with the same shocked expressions at the couple. Turning back Sirius watched as Marie calmly walked up the staircase and disappeared.
Whirling around Sirius stood mouth open staring at Lily, hoping for some sort of divine intervention. James was still leaning against the fireplace stunned at what he had just witnessed and Annie who had been curled in Danny's lap raised her head to stare at her friends.
Eventually Lily looked up at Sirius and standing up she said, "I have no idea what's going on but, I wouldn't count your chickens Sirius. That's the most pissed off I have ever seen her." Glancing at Annie, it wasn't long before both girls were heading up the stairs leaving behind them a devastated Sirius Black.
******
A/N: Thanks for reading. Coming up next - More problems for Sirius, all wrapped up in Christmas.
Don't forget to click the button and let me know what you think.
Madame Padfoot
P.S The Lady Lillian - I found the notes to the Valdeene Legacy and I'm working on the next chapter, expect it somewhere in the next week