A/N: This is the really popular sort of story, I can see. As I've gotten more reviews for one chapter than any other single upload before, and I know this is far from stellar writing, or even my own best. But I guess you combine magical diaries and a young Remus and you have a crowd-pleaser.
Only one entry in this chapter: the first day. But it's a long one, and we'll get to the rest in due time. Also, as many sharp-eyed reviewers pointed out, there is a startling lack of real movement or action in the story yet (and obviously not much for this chapter, either). I agree that it definitely has to get more exciting too, and it will have its moments, never fear; there's even a mystery plot. However, if you were looking for action/adventure or constant humour, leave, the same as anyone who wanted too much angst. This is all rather in an L.M. Montgemeryish style and pace; I am not rushing anything, it'll meander through entries at its own sweet pace, and there will quite a lot of background and introspective dealings. Mavis is old-fashioned: it shows (or so I hope), and that's the way Remus was raised, more or less. Of course, that'll slowly deteriorate with some influence *grins* but, still.
Just so you know.
However, if we're a little into the story and you're falling asleep at the screen, sure, let me know. Kick me in the rear.
I promise to try to keep the author's notes down after this. Thanks very much for the feedback: Myrtle, auroraziazan, Penelope, Soph, Darragh Tieraneux, Diva937, Uno, Flamewing, Lavander Ice, JKLB, DaemonStorm, and Voltora. Line up for your chocolate frogs after the end of the chapter. :-)
The Reluctant Diaries: Remus J Lupin
Chapter Two
2 September
Mavis, I'm so sorry for not writing yesterday like I promised. It just got so busy that there really wasn't any free time… except perhaps for some of the time on the train, but there was really no privacy and most of that was pretty eventful too!
Don't you dare neglect life for my enjoyment of entries. As you enjoyed yourself, that is the most important thing.
How'd you tell that much?
That you enjoyed yourself?
Yes.
An exclamation point usually indicates excitement, Remus.
Oh. Er, right.
Oh, you. (Meant in the nicest way possible.) Do you intend to tell about the day?
I don't know where to start.
Most people tend to start a story at the beginning.
Not really - there was a period in wizarding literature about one hundred and sixty years ago where it was quite fashionable to depart from chronological order and even today-
Much as I am fascinated, dear child, I'm really more interested in your day.
Merlin. All Mum's pushes toward studying - their effects are beginning to worry me. How'd I start to spout off all of that? Anyhow, right. The beginning of the day started… entirely too early. How come Muggles take so long getting from place to place? The platform is within the same city.
That sounds rather judgmental.
I didn't mean it to be. Mum and I have lived in the Muggle world quite some time and I don't have anything against them… except that our ways are so much quicker and I was really tired. But that probably… well, luckily everything was packed from the night before, and Mum insisted we give ourselves an extra half an hour at least, which turned out to be a very good idea. Because those streets make no sense, and - anyhow, this is the really uninteresting part. We got to Platform Nine-and-Three-Quarters. That's the important thing. Do you know how one gets through it?
They didn't have it when I attended… Hogwarts was in its very earliest and rudimentary stages, and they didn't have trains back then, in the wizarding or non-magical world. However, I think there's something to do with a secret barrier…?
Sort of, pretty much so. There's a wall between platform nine and platform ten. Like there is between all the platforms… this is difficult. Have you ever seen a Muggle station before? I mean, had it described to you?
Yes. I had a Muggle diarian who designed the station in question.
Really?!
Don't use two punctuation marks, Remus. It's very unbecoming. It puts me in mind of squeaking voices. Yes, indeed. But I'm not to reveal much more about my other diarians. At least, not until I'm positive they're dead. I'm just curious about Nine-and-Three-Corners.
Right. (I have this urge to put two periods, just to annoy you, but I guess that's rude as well.) Quite simply, the wall is enchanted. You walk through it. You have to concentrate a bit and actually have some faith it's going to work. I guess that's why Muggles have never found it out. You don't need any magic - Squibs and Muggles can do it if they want. Isn't it sort of odd no one who isn't supposed to ever did?
Wizards do rely a great deal on Muggles' disbelief in all things magical. It's quite convenient. Of course, not too many people at a station go around trying to see if the walls can be walked through or not on a whim.
True.
Another precocious observation on your part, however. You just walk straight through it?
The only difficult thing is making sure Muggles don't notice you disappearing into a wall.
Ah. The Ministry of Magic must have glorious fun with that.
Probably so. Mavis, I'll be right back - Peter has a question about Transfiguration.
Of course.
*
Now I'm confused. I thought I understood it this morning in class but now I'm no so sure.
If you thought you understood it before you probably did.
I guess I'll trust on that. It's getting late, though. I should probably move along.
What time is it?
Eight. Eight-ten.
Any time you're supposed to be in bed?
Mum said nine… but then added that I won't always do so and she doesn't expect me to.
And have you any intention of listening?
Get ready for bed then… yes. She is my mother. But actually in bed? No one else will be.
Right. It's a nice relief to see you are true and typical boy through and through.
Remus?
After a bit of thought, I've decided to take that as it was said with no deeper meaning.
Honestly. Well, you've made a good decision. Go on with the day.
The platform was crowded. Over two hundred students, plus the families that chose to come. Of course, there was the matter of getting on first. Someone else helped us. He thought we were Muggles. It's just that no one from either my mother's or my father's family has gone to Hogwarts for about three hundred years - except my Mum's father, and obviously Mum wasn't around then.
Yes, that's the impression that I'd get.
He was rather superior about it and then told the student he was chaperoning not to get too friendly with me. That was really nasty. How can Muggle-borns help being Muggle-borns?
Of course they can't. Stick to that thought and don't let anyone else change your mind.
I won't. I know what prejudice is.
Mum was upset, but I don't think it was over that. I was afraid she'd start crying. Because by the time we were ready to leave, I was really, really nervous, and if she had cried I think I would've too, and that would've been awful.
It must be difficult for her as well. You're all she has.
That's mainly because I drove off everything else she had. One would really almost expect her to be a bit relieved to see me off and have her life back.
Remus!
She lost two husbands and my older brother.
Such separations are rarely, if ever, the fault of the children.
For Chris I was part of the reason and with Father I was. He said so himself.
Then it's certainly not much of a loss to her! You are her son and she loves you dearly.
I know that. But for once she'll finally have some freedom while I'm here.
She… never mind. I'm going to make an allowance for your current ignorance of matters. But mothers… she does love you, you know that. You said so yourself that she was almost crying.
I do know that! I know it very well and I'm incredibly thankful she stood by me. I'm just saying she would've had it so much easier had she not.
Don't be ridiculous. An inborn mother's conscience would have come into play. I was never even a mother and know it too well.
Let's not argue, Mavis.
Agreed. We'll not, but we may have to discuss it at some later point in time. I say this much out of concerned affection, Remus. But go on. The train left the station at this juncture, I'd suppose, hopefully with you on it.
Yes… that much went all right enough. I would've felt very unsure and awkward, but then I ran into our acquaintance with underhand ways of acquiring Accelerators.
Oh, did you?
Yes, we wound up in the same compartment… the train is divided-
I understand the anatomy of the train.
Er, right. He didn't recognise me at first… and frankly I was too shy to say anything. He seemed to be talking to the entire compartment at once, fifteen conversations at the same time. How does one manage that?
I don't know. That's why I'm a diary.
Right. But then he spotted me out of the blue and dived over so quickly I ducked. 'I never did get a chance to thank you for my Accelerator!' he said and shook my hand.
Oh, a stand-up comic around the clock. I know the type.
His name is Sirius Black. I mentioned that he seemed a bit preoccupied at the time, but he didn't hear me. First-years aren't allowed brooms, he said. He didn't sound too pleased but said it was safe at home and waiting. He ran off pretty quickly after. Then I wandered into a compartment full of third-year girls. Not the best move.
Oh, you poor, dear boy.
It wasn't very funny. They're crazy. You're laughing again, aren't you?
I might be. What happened to give you such a dour opinion?
There was one, Bertha, who announced her intention to adopt me and in general treated me like a stuffed toy until I escaped.
You'll hate to hear me say it, but that's almost flattering.
Really, Mavis!
All right. Girls can be ridiculous. But you emerged in roughly one piece, did you not?
And with the resolution to steer clear of them.
That is an intelligent tactic indeed.
Then I found Sirius again, which was a relief, as I didn't know where to go. The only other person I found alone was the boy who had been told to stay clear of Muggle-borns. I didn't particularly want to be around him.
Understandable, but bear in mind that those were the opinions of his guardian, and not necessarily him.
That's true, but I still felt awkward. I stayed with Sirius, who was put out because he couldn't find someone, and two girls named Sammy Orr and Hannah Mockingham most of the trip. They were two of the ones who gave you to me. They asked if I was truly keeping the journal or if I was 'skivving off like boys do'. We got on all right enough for a few hours. Sirius bought a huge bag of these flavoured jelly beans. It was disgusting when it was your turn but amusing when it was anyone else's.
Ah, isn't that always the case.
Sirius swears he got live ant. What I want to know is how exactly he knows the difference of the taste between a live ant and a dead one. But that's at the point
If it moves going down your throat, it's live.
Oh.
Sorry, go on.
No, that's all right. It just took me a moment to realise what you were talking about. It's… sensible.
My trademark. What happened at this juncture?
We had someone else come in, and Sirius… I was beginning to like Sirius a lot, but it got really nasty.
Who came in, and what happened to give you this opinion?
Her name is Lily Evans, along with a boy named Peter Pettigrew, and she was Muggle-born, and Sirius started asking some really unkind questions.
Was he mocking her?
No, not really. I guess that's why I'm not very angry with him. They weren't really nasty, just… insensitive. He was really just clueless about Muggles altogether. But, of course, being from his family, you'd expect that, in a way. I thought Sirius seemed really… nice, considering his father. I guess you wouldn't know his father, of course, Arisuis Black.
No. Why the poor opinion of him?
He's really quite… it's hard to explain. To start off, he's completely prejudiced against Muggles and just about everything. Unluckily he's in a position where he can act on those feelings too.
He's works for the Ministry?
No. The thing is, no one seems to really understand what he does in the Ministry, although he calls himself an employee. It's more like the Ministry works for him. Or he just really has enough money to have the right people do as he likes.
I find it a tad disturbing that you're so aware of political matters, dear.
How so?
Concentrate on every flavoured beans, really. How can you judge him? You don't know him. I don't doubt he's a very moral or affable fellow, but let's leave off on that. I get the impression that Sirius had the sheltered life of a rich son of an influential and prejudicial father. And so he was ignorant of Muggles?
Basically so. Lily Evans didn't understand all of this, of course. She and Sirius had a huge row over it, and Lily and Peter left. Sirius was sulking the rest of the trip, and Sammy and Hannah left as well.
I'm sorry things turned so sour.
Lily is still hopping mad and Sirius is extremely immature about it. He was leering at her all day, as if we didn't have enough to worry about, and just before I started writing to you Lily came over to where Peter, Gus, and I are and pretty much blew up at us.
High-strung, she is.
Homesick, too. I think she feels very out of step.
Another of your perceptive moments. But really. You've managed to go this long without even mentioning your current House? I don't want to cut you short, but with bedtime soon, I'd like to get through this all.
Oh, I'm sorry, I forgot!
Don't apologise.
No, I meant to tell you first thing, planned to earlier, and then forgot. I guess I'm so used to it already. Mavis, how did they Sort in your day?
Are you putting this off? The Founders themselves handpicked us after a month of observation.
What were you?
A Hufflepuff. Remus, what are you? I'm incredibly irritated that I haven't quite placed you anywhere, and usually I can at least hazard a guess with the other first-years who've confided to me.
How many others have…
Other diarians? Fourteen took me to Hogwarts, counting you. Ten confided to me regularly throughout their seven years. I love having Hogwarts students as diarians. It's the high point of a diary's life. Now, for heavens' sakes, Remus!
Gryffindor. Eventually.
Indeed! It certainly took you long enough. One would think you were ashamed.
Of course not! I love Gryffindor.
I'm teasing you, scarlet-bloodied Gryffindor you already are. What the 'eventually' about?
It took almost a full minute. Which I suppose isn't a lot, until the Sorting. Only Peter and someone whose name was Something Nanhatchet took longer. The Sorting Hat is a bit smart-alecky. And I thought some of its rhymes stilted into the bargain.
The good old Sorting Hat. I feel I know it myself. So many diarians - so many different attitudes toward it. How was it smart-alecky?
Well, we started battling when it considered just about every House. Eventually the Hat got down to Hufflepuff and Gryffindor. And no offence at all, really - I've nothing against Hufflepuff except that I knew some of the people in Gryffindor and no one in Hufflepuff.
That's understandable. If anyone in your family had gone to Hogwarts, you would have had a preference, however, trust me.
Well, my grandfather - I was named after him - was in Ravenclaw, but that wound up being the first one the Hat eliminated… because on full moon I'm really anything but Ravenclawish.
How would that factor in? It's once a month.
But it's always there, on some level. I have really heightened senses, and nocturnal vision, and am stronger than most people. They're the only good things.
There's always some sort of balance - compensation for tragedy, a price for joy.
I've heard things like that, but I can't imagine it applies to every single case in life.
I suppose there could be exceptions, but it's my belief they're so rare you don't have to concern yourself with them. How did you turn the tide with the Hat between Hufflepuff and Gryffindor?
I said, impatiently as possible, that I honestly didn't care as long as it made a decision and made it quickly.
Oh, Remus!
What?
This time I am laughing. You're too much. What did the Hat say?
'Nice try' - and then a warning that with that sort of conniving, perhaps Slytherin was a larger possibility.
A price for the joy, Remus, price for the short fix.
But it chose Gryffindor in the end, and all in all I'm happy it did.
Then I'm glad it did as well. And what about the other Gryffindors? Do you get on with them?
How so? It's only the end of the first day.
I'm just concerned. Gryffindors were always the rowdiest group. You've been more or less sheltered, and you're introverted. I'd like to see how this combination is working.
I like them, mostly. There's only a few classes with other Houses. I haven't had much time to compare - and won't. I'm here, so I'll like them. Although Sirius and Lily ended up in Gryffindor, as well, which is unfortunate. They've been snipping at each other all day.
Don't get caught in the middle. You've more than enough to worry about.
I'm not. That's what Linda and I were discussing earlier.
Linda?
Linda Fairchild. Oh, I didn't mention her. She's in Gryffindor, too. The thing was is that we met once years and years ago, but after that didn't see each other until now. So we've stuck together most of the day. She says she likes Lily a lot but isn't about to get between the 'warzone'.
Clever girl.
And then Peter is also in my dormitory, and James Potter. I feel a bit out of it. They all know each other, more or less. Their fathers are all from the Ministry, and there's infamous 'gatherings' that Sirius and James have endless tales on. A bit too amusing, really; I suspect they caused at least half of the havoc.
The four of you are destined for trouble. I can see it already.
How so? They're fun, but I don't want to cause trouble here.
Veteran pranksters, your intelligence, pocket money, roommates, too-dangerous senses of humour. It's an old combination. Heaven help your teachers and classmates.
Don't be silly.
I'm not. But then again, goodness knows that I shouldn't be encouraging you.
I've left off pranks. I promised Mum before I left.
Oh, dear! So you do have experience!
I really hated Chris for a while, when he was first seeing Mum. All experience was necessary. I guess I got it from my older brother.
I've heard him mentioned a few times now. Please, for the love of Merlin, don't tell me his name is Romulus.
Logical conclusion. Yet, no. (Mum thinks very badly of anyone who believes she would be quite so morbid. And have I really mentioned him that often?) His name was is Ritchie. He would be twenty-one, now.
Ten years' difference? And so he's on his own now?
I don't know. Father took him when he left.
All right.
All right?
What I suppose I'm trying to say is that if you wish to keep on talking about this subject, you're more than welcome, but that I won't force you with unwanted questions.
Thank you. I don't know. Oftentimes I want to talk about him so much it hurts. Right now I don't. Anyhow, any amount of talking doesn't really bring him back - it just hurts.
I'm not sure if that's the most healthful of attitudes, but at the moment it's too late at night to address it.
What would be a more healthful attitude?
Lack of bravado?
Outright bawling confession that I've missed him like mad for six years?
You needn't be so defencive. I apologise if I was too forward.
And I apologise for being so snappish.
Enough said. Diaries and diarians often step on one another's toes. It's something we'll grow more comfortable with. Remember that I'm always here if you need a confidante. That's my duty and I dearly love it, Remus, and I'm immersed in concern for your well-being already. And since this is an unanswerable statement, you needn't answer it.
That's okay. Your duty or not, thank you. I like it, mostly.
You'd really hate it if I guessed with considerable accuracy that it's your appointed bedtime.
It's ten minutes 'til nine, and I haven't told you about classes yet.
Oh, really? Well then. Go on.
Ah. Now we find ourselves at a loss. Caught in our own net.
Now you've forced me into a corner where I feel too self-conscious saying anything.
It was your own conniving little Slytherinish plot to stay up ten extra minutes. Remus, you may tell me all about your classes tomorrow or whatever day, but I don't think a little sleep would do any harm.
Yes, Mother.
I'm not trying to be your mother. I'm offering advice. You don't want to fall behind, do you? Don't make the same mistakes about the freedom of boarding school I did.
What sort of mistakes?
It's too late to discuss them. If you'll tell me good-night and get some sleep I shall confess all later.
All right. Mavis?
Yes?
Good night.
There you go. Good night, Remus.
Only one entry in this chapter: the first day. But it's a long one, and we'll get to the rest in due time. Also, as many sharp-eyed reviewers pointed out, there is a startling lack of real movement or action in the story yet (and obviously not much for this chapter, either). I agree that it definitely has to get more exciting too, and it will have its moments, never fear; there's even a mystery plot. However, if you were looking for action/adventure or constant humour, leave, the same as anyone who wanted too much angst. This is all rather in an L.M. Montgemeryish style and pace; I am not rushing anything, it'll meander through entries at its own sweet pace, and there will quite a lot of background and introspective dealings. Mavis is old-fashioned: it shows (or so I hope), and that's the way Remus was raised, more or less. Of course, that'll slowly deteriorate with some influence *grins* but, still.
Just so you know.
However, if we're a little into the story and you're falling asleep at the screen, sure, let me know. Kick me in the rear.
I promise to try to keep the author's notes down after this. Thanks very much for the feedback: Myrtle, auroraziazan, Penelope, Soph, Darragh Tieraneux, Diva937, Uno, Flamewing, Lavander Ice, JKLB, DaemonStorm, and Voltora. Line up for your chocolate frogs after the end of the chapter. :-)
The Reluctant Diaries: Remus J Lupin
Chapter Two
2 September
Mavis, I'm so sorry for not writing yesterday like I promised. It just got so busy that there really wasn't any free time… except perhaps for some of the time on the train, but there was really no privacy and most of that was pretty eventful too!
Don't you dare neglect life for my enjoyment of entries. As you enjoyed yourself, that is the most important thing.
How'd you tell that much?
That you enjoyed yourself?
Yes.
An exclamation point usually indicates excitement, Remus.
Oh. Er, right.
Oh, you. (Meant in the nicest way possible.) Do you intend to tell about the day?
I don't know where to start.
Most people tend to start a story at the beginning.
Not really - there was a period in wizarding literature about one hundred and sixty years ago where it was quite fashionable to depart from chronological order and even today-
Much as I am fascinated, dear child, I'm really more interested in your day.
Merlin. All Mum's pushes toward studying - their effects are beginning to worry me. How'd I start to spout off all of that? Anyhow, right. The beginning of the day started… entirely too early. How come Muggles take so long getting from place to place? The platform is within the same city.
That sounds rather judgmental.
I didn't mean it to be. Mum and I have lived in the Muggle world quite some time and I don't have anything against them… except that our ways are so much quicker and I was really tired. But that probably… well, luckily everything was packed from the night before, and Mum insisted we give ourselves an extra half an hour at least, which turned out to be a very good idea. Because those streets make no sense, and - anyhow, this is the really uninteresting part. We got to Platform Nine-and-Three-Quarters. That's the important thing. Do you know how one gets through it?
They didn't have it when I attended… Hogwarts was in its very earliest and rudimentary stages, and they didn't have trains back then, in the wizarding or non-magical world. However, I think there's something to do with a secret barrier…?
Sort of, pretty much so. There's a wall between platform nine and platform ten. Like there is between all the platforms… this is difficult. Have you ever seen a Muggle station before? I mean, had it described to you?
Yes. I had a Muggle diarian who designed the station in question.
Really?!
Don't use two punctuation marks, Remus. It's very unbecoming. It puts me in mind of squeaking voices. Yes, indeed. But I'm not to reveal much more about my other diarians. At least, not until I'm positive they're dead. I'm just curious about Nine-and-Three-Corners.
Right. (I have this urge to put two periods, just to annoy you, but I guess that's rude as well.) Quite simply, the wall is enchanted. You walk through it. You have to concentrate a bit and actually have some faith it's going to work. I guess that's why Muggles have never found it out. You don't need any magic - Squibs and Muggles can do it if they want. Isn't it sort of odd no one who isn't supposed to ever did?
Wizards do rely a great deal on Muggles' disbelief in all things magical. It's quite convenient. Of course, not too many people at a station go around trying to see if the walls can be walked through or not on a whim.
True.
Another precocious observation on your part, however. You just walk straight through it?
The only difficult thing is making sure Muggles don't notice you disappearing into a wall.
Ah. The Ministry of Magic must have glorious fun with that.
Probably so. Mavis, I'll be right back - Peter has a question about Transfiguration.
Of course.
*
Now I'm confused. I thought I understood it this morning in class but now I'm no so sure.
If you thought you understood it before you probably did.
I guess I'll trust on that. It's getting late, though. I should probably move along.
What time is it?
Eight. Eight-ten.
Any time you're supposed to be in bed?
Mum said nine… but then added that I won't always do so and she doesn't expect me to.
And have you any intention of listening?
Get ready for bed then… yes. She is my mother. But actually in bed? No one else will be.
Right. It's a nice relief to see you are true and typical boy through and through.
Remus?
After a bit of thought, I've decided to take that as it was said with no deeper meaning.
Honestly. Well, you've made a good decision. Go on with the day.
The platform was crowded. Over two hundred students, plus the families that chose to come. Of course, there was the matter of getting on first. Someone else helped us. He thought we were Muggles. It's just that no one from either my mother's or my father's family has gone to Hogwarts for about three hundred years - except my Mum's father, and obviously Mum wasn't around then.
Yes, that's the impression that I'd get.
He was rather superior about it and then told the student he was chaperoning not to get too friendly with me. That was really nasty. How can Muggle-borns help being Muggle-borns?
Of course they can't. Stick to that thought and don't let anyone else change your mind.
I won't. I know what prejudice is.
Mum was upset, but I don't think it was over that. I was afraid she'd start crying. Because by the time we were ready to leave, I was really, really nervous, and if she had cried I think I would've too, and that would've been awful.
It must be difficult for her as well. You're all she has.
That's mainly because I drove off everything else she had. One would really almost expect her to be a bit relieved to see me off and have her life back.
Remus!
She lost two husbands and my older brother.
Such separations are rarely, if ever, the fault of the children.
For Chris I was part of the reason and with Father I was. He said so himself.
Then it's certainly not much of a loss to her! You are her son and she loves you dearly.
I know that. But for once she'll finally have some freedom while I'm here.
She… never mind. I'm going to make an allowance for your current ignorance of matters. But mothers… she does love you, you know that. You said so yourself that she was almost crying.
I do know that! I know it very well and I'm incredibly thankful she stood by me. I'm just saying she would've had it so much easier had she not.
Don't be ridiculous. An inborn mother's conscience would have come into play. I was never even a mother and know it too well.
Let's not argue, Mavis.
Agreed. We'll not, but we may have to discuss it at some later point in time. I say this much out of concerned affection, Remus. But go on. The train left the station at this juncture, I'd suppose, hopefully with you on it.
Yes… that much went all right enough. I would've felt very unsure and awkward, but then I ran into our acquaintance with underhand ways of acquiring Accelerators.
Oh, did you?
Yes, we wound up in the same compartment… the train is divided-
I understand the anatomy of the train.
Er, right. He didn't recognise me at first… and frankly I was too shy to say anything. He seemed to be talking to the entire compartment at once, fifteen conversations at the same time. How does one manage that?
I don't know. That's why I'm a diary.
Right. But then he spotted me out of the blue and dived over so quickly I ducked. 'I never did get a chance to thank you for my Accelerator!' he said and shook my hand.
Oh, a stand-up comic around the clock. I know the type.
His name is Sirius Black. I mentioned that he seemed a bit preoccupied at the time, but he didn't hear me. First-years aren't allowed brooms, he said. He didn't sound too pleased but said it was safe at home and waiting. He ran off pretty quickly after. Then I wandered into a compartment full of third-year girls. Not the best move.
Oh, you poor, dear boy.
It wasn't very funny. They're crazy. You're laughing again, aren't you?
I might be. What happened to give you such a dour opinion?
There was one, Bertha, who announced her intention to adopt me and in general treated me like a stuffed toy until I escaped.
You'll hate to hear me say it, but that's almost flattering.
Really, Mavis!
All right. Girls can be ridiculous. But you emerged in roughly one piece, did you not?
And with the resolution to steer clear of them.
That is an intelligent tactic indeed.
Then I found Sirius again, which was a relief, as I didn't know where to go. The only other person I found alone was the boy who had been told to stay clear of Muggle-borns. I didn't particularly want to be around him.
Understandable, but bear in mind that those were the opinions of his guardian, and not necessarily him.
That's true, but I still felt awkward. I stayed with Sirius, who was put out because he couldn't find someone, and two girls named Sammy Orr and Hannah Mockingham most of the trip. They were two of the ones who gave you to me. They asked if I was truly keeping the journal or if I was 'skivving off like boys do'. We got on all right enough for a few hours. Sirius bought a huge bag of these flavoured jelly beans. It was disgusting when it was your turn but amusing when it was anyone else's.
Ah, isn't that always the case.
Sirius swears he got live ant. What I want to know is how exactly he knows the difference of the taste between a live ant and a dead one. But that's at the point
If it moves going down your throat, it's live.
Oh.
Sorry, go on.
No, that's all right. It just took me a moment to realise what you were talking about. It's… sensible.
My trademark. What happened at this juncture?
We had someone else come in, and Sirius… I was beginning to like Sirius a lot, but it got really nasty.
Who came in, and what happened to give you this opinion?
Her name is Lily Evans, along with a boy named Peter Pettigrew, and she was Muggle-born, and Sirius started asking some really unkind questions.
Was he mocking her?
No, not really. I guess that's why I'm not very angry with him. They weren't really nasty, just… insensitive. He was really just clueless about Muggles altogether. But, of course, being from his family, you'd expect that, in a way. I thought Sirius seemed really… nice, considering his father. I guess you wouldn't know his father, of course, Arisuis Black.
No. Why the poor opinion of him?
He's really quite… it's hard to explain. To start off, he's completely prejudiced against Muggles and just about everything. Unluckily he's in a position where he can act on those feelings too.
He's works for the Ministry?
No. The thing is, no one seems to really understand what he does in the Ministry, although he calls himself an employee. It's more like the Ministry works for him. Or he just really has enough money to have the right people do as he likes.
I find it a tad disturbing that you're so aware of political matters, dear.
How so?
Concentrate on every flavoured beans, really. How can you judge him? You don't know him. I don't doubt he's a very moral or affable fellow, but let's leave off on that. I get the impression that Sirius had the sheltered life of a rich son of an influential and prejudicial father. And so he was ignorant of Muggles?
Basically so. Lily Evans didn't understand all of this, of course. She and Sirius had a huge row over it, and Lily and Peter left. Sirius was sulking the rest of the trip, and Sammy and Hannah left as well.
I'm sorry things turned so sour.
Lily is still hopping mad and Sirius is extremely immature about it. He was leering at her all day, as if we didn't have enough to worry about, and just before I started writing to you Lily came over to where Peter, Gus, and I are and pretty much blew up at us.
High-strung, she is.
Homesick, too. I think she feels very out of step.
Another of your perceptive moments. But really. You've managed to go this long without even mentioning your current House? I don't want to cut you short, but with bedtime soon, I'd like to get through this all.
Oh, I'm sorry, I forgot!
Don't apologise.
No, I meant to tell you first thing, planned to earlier, and then forgot. I guess I'm so used to it already. Mavis, how did they Sort in your day?
Are you putting this off? The Founders themselves handpicked us after a month of observation.
What were you?
A Hufflepuff. Remus, what are you? I'm incredibly irritated that I haven't quite placed you anywhere, and usually I can at least hazard a guess with the other first-years who've confided to me.
How many others have…
Other diarians? Fourteen took me to Hogwarts, counting you. Ten confided to me regularly throughout their seven years. I love having Hogwarts students as diarians. It's the high point of a diary's life. Now, for heavens' sakes, Remus!
Gryffindor. Eventually.
Indeed! It certainly took you long enough. One would think you were ashamed.
Of course not! I love Gryffindor.
I'm teasing you, scarlet-bloodied Gryffindor you already are. What the 'eventually' about?
It took almost a full minute. Which I suppose isn't a lot, until the Sorting. Only Peter and someone whose name was Something Nanhatchet took longer. The Sorting Hat is a bit smart-alecky. And I thought some of its rhymes stilted into the bargain.
The good old Sorting Hat. I feel I know it myself. So many diarians - so many different attitudes toward it. How was it smart-alecky?
Well, we started battling when it considered just about every House. Eventually the Hat got down to Hufflepuff and Gryffindor. And no offence at all, really - I've nothing against Hufflepuff except that I knew some of the people in Gryffindor and no one in Hufflepuff.
That's understandable. If anyone in your family had gone to Hogwarts, you would have had a preference, however, trust me.
Well, my grandfather - I was named after him - was in Ravenclaw, but that wound up being the first one the Hat eliminated… because on full moon I'm really anything but Ravenclawish.
How would that factor in? It's once a month.
But it's always there, on some level. I have really heightened senses, and nocturnal vision, and am stronger than most people. They're the only good things.
There's always some sort of balance - compensation for tragedy, a price for joy.
I've heard things like that, but I can't imagine it applies to every single case in life.
I suppose there could be exceptions, but it's my belief they're so rare you don't have to concern yourself with them. How did you turn the tide with the Hat between Hufflepuff and Gryffindor?
I said, impatiently as possible, that I honestly didn't care as long as it made a decision and made it quickly.
Oh, Remus!
What?
This time I am laughing. You're too much. What did the Hat say?
'Nice try' - and then a warning that with that sort of conniving, perhaps Slytherin was a larger possibility.
A price for the joy, Remus, price for the short fix.
But it chose Gryffindor in the end, and all in all I'm happy it did.
Then I'm glad it did as well. And what about the other Gryffindors? Do you get on with them?
How so? It's only the end of the first day.
I'm just concerned. Gryffindors were always the rowdiest group. You've been more or less sheltered, and you're introverted. I'd like to see how this combination is working.
I like them, mostly. There's only a few classes with other Houses. I haven't had much time to compare - and won't. I'm here, so I'll like them. Although Sirius and Lily ended up in Gryffindor, as well, which is unfortunate. They've been snipping at each other all day.
Don't get caught in the middle. You've more than enough to worry about.
I'm not. That's what Linda and I were discussing earlier.
Linda?
Linda Fairchild. Oh, I didn't mention her. She's in Gryffindor, too. The thing was is that we met once years and years ago, but after that didn't see each other until now. So we've stuck together most of the day. She says she likes Lily a lot but isn't about to get between the 'warzone'.
Clever girl.
And then Peter is also in my dormitory, and James Potter. I feel a bit out of it. They all know each other, more or less. Their fathers are all from the Ministry, and there's infamous 'gatherings' that Sirius and James have endless tales on. A bit too amusing, really; I suspect they caused at least half of the havoc.
The four of you are destined for trouble. I can see it already.
How so? They're fun, but I don't want to cause trouble here.
Veteran pranksters, your intelligence, pocket money, roommates, too-dangerous senses of humour. It's an old combination. Heaven help your teachers and classmates.
Don't be silly.
I'm not. But then again, goodness knows that I shouldn't be encouraging you.
I've left off pranks. I promised Mum before I left.
Oh, dear! So you do have experience!
I really hated Chris for a while, when he was first seeing Mum. All experience was necessary. I guess I got it from my older brother.
I've heard him mentioned a few times now. Please, for the love of Merlin, don't tell me his name is Romulus.
Logical conclusion. Yet, no. (Mum thinks very badly of anyone who believes she would be quite so morbid. And have I really mentioned him that often?) His name was is Ritchie. He would be twenty-one, now.
Ten years' difference? And so he's on his own now?
I don't know. Father took him when he left.
All right.
All right?
What I suppose I'm trying to say is that if you wish to keep on talking about this subject, you're more than welcome, but that I won't force you with unwanted questions.
Thank you. I don't know. Oftentimes I want to talk about him so much it hurts. Right now I don't. Anyhow, any amount of talking doesn't really bring him back - it just hurts.
I'm not sure if that's the most healthful of attitudes, but at the moment it's too late at night to address it.
What would be a more healthful attitude?
Lack of bravado?
Outright bawling confession that I've missed him like mad for six years?
You needn't be so defencive. I apologise if I was too forward.
And I apologise for being so snappish.
Enough said. Diaries and diarians often step on one another's toes. It's something we'll grow more comfortable with. Remember that I'm always here if you need a confidante. That's my duty and I dearly love it, Remus, and I'm immersed in concern for your well-being already. And since this is an unanswerable statement, you needn't answer it.
That's okay. Your duty or not, thank you. I like it, mostly.
You'd really hate it if I guessed with considerable accuracy that it's your appointed bedtime.
It's ten minutes 'til nine, and I haven't told you about classes yet.
Oh, really? Well then. Go on.
Ah. Now we find ourselves at a loss. Caught in our own net.
Now you've forced me into a corner where I feel too self-conscious saying anything.
It was your own conniving little Slytherinish plot to stay up ten extra minutes. Remus, you may tell me all about your classes tomorrow or whatever day, but I don't think a little sleep would do any harm.
Yes, Mother.
I'm not trying to be your mother. I'm offering advice. You don't want to fall behind, do you? Don't make the same mistakes about the freedom of boarding school I did.
What sort of mistakes?
It's too late to discuss them. If you'll tell me good-night and get some sleep I shall confess all later.
All right. Mavis?
Yes?
Good night.
There you go. Good night, Remus.