The Fifth Marauder :
Chapter 10 : The ways of Magic :
Monday. First day of the week. Molly didn't have to wake Sam up. She was already showered, dressed and making coffee when the witch came in. The house was empty. Remus must have left much earlier and had put on the table for her breakfast nonetheless. Her attire for the day was nothing more sophisticated than the one of the previous day. Some jeans, a blouse. She had only added her simple pearl earrings, a Christmas gift from Mark's wife.
"Good morning, dear. Did you have any sleep last night?" Asked Molly, kissing Sam's cheek in greeting.
"Yes, a sleep worthy of a dead."
"And are you still tired this morning?"
"No, I'm fine."
"Good. We have a long day awaiting us."
"Do you want some coffee?"
"No, dear, take your time."
They sat themselves at the kitchen table, Sam quietly sipping her coffee, while Molly was reading the newspaper - 'the Daily Prophet' - and commenting its articles or journalists. When they were both done, Molly enquired if Sam had her wand on her.
"No. I would have carried it with me, but I couldn't see where to put it. My jeans pockets aren't big enough."
"Well, that won't do at all. I'll sew an extra pocket in your jacket like I did for my sons. But we'd better buy you some robes too. And in case you wear your muggle clothing, they now sell those very clever and discreet belts with a loop to put your wand in."
A 'wand holster'. Cool.
"In fact we could go shopping right away. Albus won't be back before the evening anyway. He wants me to help you get the hang back with your spells and charms. But we can start in the afternoon. Do you have any money with you?"
"Yes. Albus and I went to Gringotts yesterday."
"Oh, so you've already been back to Diagon Alley?"
"Yes. But I didn't see a lot of it. It was late, and we were hurrying. Is that where you want us to shop?"
"Indeed. It is very different in daylight, you'll see. I'll let you get your money and we'll floo there."
"I just need a minute."
Sam ran back to her room and took jacket, purse and wand, that she finally stuck in her pants. That was one way like another for now, she thought.
The fireplace was in the kitchen. Sam took the Floo powder Molly was handing her and after placing herself inside the hearth shouted obediently "Diagon Alley!".
The ride was eventless. She stepped outside a wide stone fireplace and brushed some soot off her as Molly appeared. Diagon Alley was facing them. True to Molly's words it was an entire different sight in broad daylight. A small pedestrian street crowded with shops and people. Sam and Molly made their way through the crowd, Sam stopping every so often to watch a window with delight or awe. Molly had to drag her away when they passed the Quidditch supply shop and the animal shop.
"No Sam, I'm not buying a broom with you now. You'll do that with Remus, he'll give you much better advice. You have all week."
They finally came to a small inviting shop with several dummies in its window dressed with robes that seemed finely made to Sam and modern. She read "Claire Green - Robes and Design - Paris / London / New York".
"How about this shop?"
Molly seemed a bit hesitant.
"The clothes here are not cheap at all… Claire Green…that's a young stylist who has become incredibly popular lately. This new shop has great success…How much are you willing to spend on your robes?"
"Well, I'm not sure; but I'd rather buy something more expensive that will last me longer than something cheap and of bad quality."
"Then we can go in and have a look, I guess."
They entered. The shop was bigger in the inside than it looked on the outside and not much different from any muggle boutique. Several models were presented on dummies and the rest was put on hangers. And like most women, Sam searched with pleasure through the different clothing. From what she had seen of wizard fashion Sam had feared to 'dress up' like them, but she found some really nice things. Well, that shop she had found by a real stroke of luck was in the good way to become one of her favorite for clothes! At least, wizard clothes.
She had already several items in her arms when she saw Molly looking fearfully at a price label. True, the cheapest robes cost no less than 9 galleons which made £45 or $65.7; but wearing a uniform most of the time and earning enough money to have a costly wardrobe, it was the price that Sam usually spent to dress. But it was obviously not what Molly spent on clothes. A bit embarrassed with her snobbish attitude, she approached the older witch.
"Molly, that thing, belt, for my wand; would you mind getting it for me while I'll try those on? We could save some time that way."
Molly smiled, eager to help.
"Of course. I've seen some the other day in a shop much farther down the street, near Gringotts. What about meeting there in twenty minutes? Will it leave you enough time?"
"It's fine. How much money do you need?"
"Oh, don't worry about that, I'll get it for you."
"No, I insist; you don't need to get me anything."
"Yes but it pleases me to do it."
"Fine then, but I'm taking you out for lunch."
"As you please. See you later then, dear."
"Bye, Molly."
Sam watched her go. Molly really was a nice person with a mother hen personality. No wonder she had been her mother's friend and now hers.
After another quick turn around the shelves, Sam had seen everything and selected three pairs of robes. Two were opened up robes under which she could wear her own clothing. They were more like fashionable jackets. One was black and closed with a silver zipper on the right shoulder; the other of a deep dark purple and closed simply in the front by tiding two red laces together. The third item was standard robes; thus resembling more to a dress; dark green with an elaborate collar of a lighter green and some white magical runes embroidered on the sleeves. Very nice. All very proper but stylish and modern for her soon new position as a teacher, she thought. A slim, smiling witch dressed in red made her stand on a footstool.
"Hold out your arm, please. Thank you."
She measured Sam from shoulder to wrist, then from shoulder to ankle, around the stomach, waist and hips. Then she brought other pairs of the selected robes from her storeroom, put them on Sam and adjusted the lengths.
"It fits you very well ma'am."
"It's perfect. Thank you."
She looked at herself one more time before taking the robes off, satisfied. A true fashionable witch.
Twenty minutes later and 30 galleons less in her account - she had signed a note for the shop to withdraw from her account not having enough in her purse; galleons were heavy and she had no more than ten on her - she was meeting Molly in front of Gringotts. They walked together to the end of the street, talking and looking at some more windows. Around twelve, they went to eat in a small clean Italian restaurant and then flooed tranquilly back to Remus' house.
xxxxxxxx
The afternoon was dedicated to practice some basic spells and charms just outside of the house. From summoning charms to defensive charms, Sam was able to master a great quantity of simple or more complicated spells in a few hours, as she only needed a few tries for most. It was like bicycle or ski, she thought. Once you had got the hang of it, you wouldn't forget easily. The first spell Molly had her do was a simple 'Lumos'. She had concentrated, first unsure of her own capacities. It was after all the first time she would do some magic after fifteen years. What if she couldn't do it? What if there was no more magic in her? She cried "Lumos" and the end of her wand lit. Her initial doubts soon dissolved and she worked hard until her arm hurt from all the effort.
At five they were back inside the house for tea. Molly was in the kitchen preparing a light snack for Sam and herself, while the Major comfortably sited in the living room was levitating various items around her. A "crack" was heard outside and the door bell rang.
"That would be Albus, just on time for tea, as usual."
Albus it was indeed, pleased both to have something to eat, and to see how fast Sam had recovered the basis.
"Molly will have things to do tomorrow morning, but I've asked Arthur to give Remus his sons' text books so you can read and practice a little by yourself. One of us will be back to help you on the most complicated spells in the afternoon."
"Thank you."
Albus dedicated the end of the afternoon to explain her how a class should be taught and get a general view of the DADA programs of the different years for the first trimester.
Remus came in when they were all getting ready to eat supper. (one would believe that the biological clock of men is adjusted on the meals lol). He was carrying a satchel of books and a big box, which looked bigger than heavy. But again, she now knew there were such things as alleviating spells.
"Good evening all."
"Good evening Remus, come and sit. You must be hungry."
Their meal eaten, Molly left and Sam carried the books to her room, hoping she would have time to look at them before falling asleep that night. When she got down again, Albus had opened the box and was taking out the object it was containing. A shallow stone basin with odd runes and symbols carved around the edge. A silvery light shined from its contents, which were bright, whitish silver, and cloud-like, moving ceaselessly. It was mesmerizing. A Pensieve.
"That's a pensieve."
"Yes, my pensieve. Remus and I thought it would be easier for you to understand the events to which you haven't taken part if you were to see them, rather than listen to us. There is already a lot you know. And this will hopefully filled the missing details. We both put in what we thought was the most important."
Sam nodded. It was indeed one thing to be told an event, and another to witness it.
They all took a seat around the basin. Sam took a deep breath and dip her hand in the strange material. She felt as if she was sucked in it. Her vision became fuzzy for a few seconds and then she was in a forest. A silver full moon was lighting the night sky. She looked around her and saw four teenagers approaching, she was right in front of them but they couldn't see her. She wondered what would happen if she touched one. They came closer and she found herself face to face with no others than James, Sirius, Peter and herself. A younger version of herself. 14, 15 years old? She couldn't really say. She resumed her first intention. Her hand passed through the vision. They stopped in front of a vicious looking moving tree. James touched a knot with a stick at the base of the trunk and the tree went still. They entered a narrow tunnel and older Sam followed. Once inside she heard a growl and her friend instruct:
"He's coming. Transform now. Quick."
Under Sam's astonished eyes. The face and body of each Marauder started to morph to finally take the shape of an animal. James was a majestic stag, Sirius a gigantic black dog, Peter a rat, and herself… She was a bird, a peregrine falcon. Her alter ego fluttered in mid air before resting on a lamp fixed to the wall. Soon after a massive and frightening creature appeared at the end of the corridor. A werewolf.
Sam felt fear take hold of her, and even knowing herself immaterial in this 'memory', she gripped her wand tightly, ready to strike, like any good Sg1 member.
But the wolf did not attack the animals. He only looked at them, sniffed the air and left, followed by the stag, dog, rat and falcon.
And Sam remembered.
"Moony…"
Sam's vision blurred again and the scene changed. They were now in a court room. The meeting was open to the public and both Remus and Albus were sited on the public benches comforting a crying old woman. Peter Pettigrew's mother. Sam had seen her before.
"Let the next prisoner in."
Two large doors opened and Sirius entered, his hands and feet bounded, led in by two Aurors. An exhausted Sirius, his gray eyes blood-shot, with a three days beard. Sam's heart was beating so fast she could hear it in her head. The charges were pronounced. And heavy charges they were. The betrayal of the Potters, alliance with You Know Who, the murder of Pettigrew and of thirteen muggles. Sirius was only asked if he had something to alleviate those accusations. He just smiled rather frighteningly. His possible innocence was out of question. There was no lawyer. He had been judged guilty before he had entered the room. This was no trial. The president was about to reveal the sentence. Sam wanted to scream. She didn't want to hear. She couldn't. She covered her ears with her hands but heard nonetheless.
"The court sentences Sirius Black to life imprisonment in Azkaban."
And then Sirius laughed. A mad desperate laugh at the announce that broke his life. His deranging laugh still rang as they led him away.
More trials followed Sirius'. Death Eaters. Traitors. Then Sam guessed she had jumped a few years in the future. She was at Hogwarts. A sorting ceremony. Among the first years she saw a dark haired boy with glasses. At first she was inclined to think it was James, but then she saw his eyes.
And Sam smiled, filled with pride, as Professor McGonagall called:
"Harry Potter!"
Harry's first year: a Quidditch match, Quirell, Voldemort's spirit and the philosopher stone. His second year: the Chamber of Secrets, the memory of Tom Riddle, Molly's daughter and the basilisk. His third year: Remus teaching DADA, the Dementors, Sirius' escape, Pettigrew and the Shrieking Shack. His fourth year: the Triwizard Tournament, the maze, Harry injured by Voldemort who had finally gotten his body back.
And then his fifth year: the Order, Grimmauld place, his trial, Dolores Umbridge teaching DADA, 'Dumbledore's Army', Sirius growing restless and Harry putting his head in the lion's mouth in the Department of Mysteries. And finally a battle in a room that was quite large and rectangular. It was dimly lit. In the center was a sunken stone pit some twenty feet deep. Some benches ran all around the room and descended in steep steps toward a raised stone dais in the center of the pit. An ancient, crumbling stone archway, unsupported by any surrounding walls stood on this dais. This archway was hung with a tattered black curtain which fluttered very slightly as though it had just been touched. But the air in the room was still and cold. They had to get Harry and the other children out. Bellatrix Lestranges was advancing on Sirius. They dueled. Sam was shaking. It would soon end. And she could do nothing, only watch petrified the now 36 year old Sirius fell as the killing curse hit him. Only a second, he would have only needed one more second to say a shielding charm. He was falling. Sam heard herself screaming. She ran to catch Sirius' body but it fell behind the black veil. She ran to the other side of the archway. There was nothing. His body was gone. Where was it? Where? What had happened? Tears were streaming freely from her eyes. She raised them to the arch and the veil. Now that she was so close it didn't really look like a veil. Not this shimmering surface that seemed to cast shadows around. And there were some carved symbols on some part of the arch. She had never seen them before. But they still looked strangely familiar. She thought she could hear voices through the veil. She was extending her hand towards it when she felt herself leaving the pensieve.
xxxxxxxx
Sam opened her eyes. She was on her bed. The rays of light of the morning sun were streaming from the cracks below her closed window. She looked at her watch. 7:30 AM - Tuesday. Rubbing her eyes one last time to erase all traces of sleep, she stood and opened the shutters. The nature was still fresh and damp from the early morning shower. Birds were singing and the sky was so blue it hurt Sam still weak eyes. There was life outside, whereas all was still and silent in the empty house. Sam had to leave. To get away from the suffocating loneliness of the inside. To feel active and alive. And she knew the best way was to run until you were sweaty and aching all over. She hastily put some sweat pants on, a narrow tee-shirt and an old gray jumper. After hesitating a moment, she also put on what she liked to call the 'wand holster', secured her wand in it and departed. She jogged for over an hour and a half without resting, following the old deserted path half covered with wild grass between the green, yellow and orange fields. Surrounded by the friendly nature and the soft September sun over her head which dissolved the shadows, Sam finally felt peace gaining her. She felt in control of herself again. Whole. Maybe that was how Jack felt when he fished? Maybe there was more to it than the pleasure of catching those poor fishes? How long had it been since she had walked through the countryside for the mere pleasure of doing it? She slowed down and strolled for another half hour in the same direction, taking in as much as she could of the beautiful countryside and its simplicity that seemed to want to protect man from the complications he always invented for himself. Then she decided she had to go back. She had been given books to study.
When her spirit had reemerged from the pensieve the night before, she had been supported by Remus and Albus who had given her a drink, and have sited calmly with her for over an hour to answer further questions. What had most troubled her was the disappearance of Sirius' corpse. Albus had not been able to answer her questions about the strange archway and its veil. There were no lies in his eyes when he said that of all the oddities hidden in the Department of Mysteries, the archway and its veil in the Death Chamber ; like they call it; was certainly the greatest enigma of all time in the Wizarding world. It had been found, yes, found between the ruins of a half destroyed Irish castle, two hundred years ago. Hidden by the ministers of Magic that followed one another up to this day. Generations of researchers had worked night and day to solve the mystery of the archway, of this liquid like veil. Some had died, or rather disappeared, by going through the archway, and the experience had not been renewed in over seventy years. Sirius was dead and his body was gone. What he thought the veil was? It would be unwise for him to come to conclusions. Three years of his own life as an Unspeakable he had spent, trying to figure this riddle out. But even him couldn't find the answers. He had left this task to others, while he kept the uneasy feeling that it was indeed a doorway to a world of shadows that shouldn't be disturbed for the sake of all. If she could see it? Not before long, they had other priorities. Even then, her wounds were too new and it didn't seem the best thing to do. He promised nonetheless to collect his old studies to give them to her.
She could see the old cottage and the large dark forest behind it. She reached the porch exhausted but contented. Sitting on the stairs, she waited for her breathing to return to its normal rhythm. Her bracelet was shining under the sun. It was beautiful. And useful. A combination like only the Tok'ra could make. She wasn't supposed to contact the base before a month, but maybe she could…
As she was still wondering whether she could call or not, the blue gem started to glow and the bracelet to vibrate. She carefully took the gem off, put it in her ear and pushed the green gem, as instructed.
"Major Carter from Sg1 to SGC. What happens SGC?" She asked worriedly.
"Nothing Major, just thought I would check how you were doing."
"Colonel O'Neill!" A big smile lit Sam's face.
"What's up Major?"
"I'm fine thank you. Just came back from a jog in the countryside. You would love it here."
"Is there a nice place to fish?"
"Well, there is a pound nearby but I haven't been there yet."
"It's not raining?"
"No, sir." Answered Sam rolling her eyes.
"So while your team is working hard and trying to escape near death situations, you're tranquilly enjoying yourself, hum?"
Sam laughed.
"Only this morning. How is everyone?"
"Dandy. Danny is lost in a huge alien book of his and Teal'c has had the same idea as you, it seems. He is off running around the base grounds."
"And how is my substitute doing?"
"Your substitute has got wavy blond hair and a IQ of 20."
"Man?"
"Ape."
She laughed again.
"A blond ape? Come on, General Hammond wouldn't have him join Sg1 if he hadn't some capacities."
"Well, I'm still waiting for him to show them."
"What's his name?"
"Lockhart."
Lockhart. Funny like in…
"'Gilderoy' Lockhart. And I thought the Jaffas had strange names! Oh, and he is English by the way."
"Hum." She remembered a classmate called 'Gilderoy' Lockhart. What a strange coincidence.
"I didn't know they accepted English soldiers in the SGC. Is it part of this world cooperation project, now that the existence of the Gate has been revealed to the other countries' governments?"
"That's what Hammond says...Oh, and don't forget to write to Cassie. She has been pestering Janet to get news from you."
"I won't."
"Well, that's about it, Major. Take care of yourself."
"Thank you Colonel."
"Good bye then, say hi to that Albus guy for me."
"Sir…"
"Yeah?"
"Don't forget that you can contact me whenever you need to… even if it doesn't seem overly important."
"Okay."
"Goodbye sir."
"Bye Carter."
The communication ended, Sam put the gem back in place and got up. If she had felt better after her walk, she now felt warm inside. That was the power that Jack O'Neill had over her. She couldn't take the smile off her face. After a quick shower, she grabbed several books and started to read, even taking a few notes at times. Not once did she think about Sirius or the strange archway.
xxxxxxxx
It was now past two o'clock. She had eaten lunch, a quick sandwich and a glass of juice, and had decided to start practicing by herself behind the house. She heard somebody approaching and turned, expecting Remus or Molly. But the tall bald black wizard was certainly neither of them. He was wearing a single gold hoop earring, black robes over black trousers, with a crest she knew all too well. The Auror Department crest. He seemed a bit older than herself. Forty? Forty-five? But certainly couldn't be older than that. Sam had her wand lowered but was on her guards. As he came nearer, she thought his features looked familiar. Could it be… with an extra fifteen years…
"Kingsley?" Sam ventured.
"Himself." Kingsley Shacklebolt grinned as Sam crossed the last meters between them to hug him. He had been told she was likely not to remember him, and was happy to see they had mistaken. Both Aurors fifteen years back, even if they hadn't been in the same team; Sam being supervised by Frank Longbottom, while he had been under Alastor Moody's guard; they had been friends and had both greatly learned from the few missions their two teams did together. Kingsley had always been amazed by Sam and her skills, like all of them of course. The girl who had achieved her apprenticeship in height months. But he has soon found there was more to her than her capacities. A wonderful person. A friend he had missed and hoped was happy with her new life.
They talked, learning to know each other again, and finally set to work. Kingsley had been sent to help Sam with the more complicated spells, and they had lots to try.
Sam sat in the grass, wiping the sweat from her brow and looked up at Kingsley.
"No more. My arm is going to fall off from my body."
"That would be embarrassing."
He sat at her side.
"So. How did I do?"
"Not badly."
"As in well?"
"As in get up and do me this last Flame Freezing Charm again."
"Urgh. I swear you're worse than Moody."
Kingsley might have been pushing Sam, but he was very impressed. He hadn't thought they would go this far today. But Sam had no difficulty executing even the most complicated. She just needed to be showed once or twice, and if she had known the spell before, she would copied Shacklebolt perfectly. He even taught her new spells and charms. By the end of the afternoon, she had half her Auror training back in mind.
She handed Kingsley a cup of tea and poured herself one.
"So you're sure you're not dinning with us tonight?"
"No, I'm on the night patrol."
"What time?"
"8 to 1 AM."
"Well I'm glad I'm not doing it."
"Thank you so much for your concern Carter."
Sam smirked. A thought crossed her mind.
"Kingsley, when does that Quidditch store near Ollivander closes at night?"
"7:00 I think. Why?"
"It's already 6:00… Would you mind going there with me now?
"Now?"
"Now."
"But… what do you want to buy?"
"A broom!"
"A… I thought you were tired?"
"Me? Not to buy a broom. A racing broom."
"Well, I guess you could need one in the future…"
"Let's go!"
"But my tea?"
"It makes the teeth yellow."
He shook his head, took a last sip and handed her back his cup.
"Can you apparate?"
"I don't think so."
"We'll have to work on that tomorrow then. Floo powder?"
"In the kitchen."
Kingsley disappeared in the emerald flames and Sam stepped in the vacant hearth. She was about to drop the powder when she heard Remus coming in.
"Moony!"
He came running into the kitchen holding his wand.
"What? What happened?"
Sam put the powder in his hands and pushed him into the fireplace.
"Diagon alley!"
"Diagon alley? What the hell for?"
"I want a broom."
Remus rolled his eyes, shrugged and was gone.
The three of them managed to find her a 'nice cool' racing broom just like she wanted. She had been told it was the same broom Sirius had given Harry. Only hers was the latest version. And 25 galleons more expensive. A Firebolt 2.0. She promised herself to slow down the expenses after this last pleasure.
It was an over excited Sam that came back home that night. She couldn't wait to try her new broom, and even if it was already rather dark, Remus could only sigh and fetch his own old broom.
Sam had no fear when she mounted her broom. She didn't even hesitate. Flying was instinctive to her. She had always admired James for his grace when he flew. And from what she had seen of Harry's abilities, he clearly had inherited his father's gift. She knew she didn't fly as beautifully. But she really loved it. Even more than Quidditch. Just to fly. Her animagus form wasn't a bird for nothing. And hadn't her first dream been to become astronaut? She rose high, and higher. Circled the house, the forest. Touched the water from the pond. Remus and her chased each other until the half moon was high in the night sky.
They sat on the rooftop, their feet hanging in the empty space. Remus was looking at the moon melancholically.
"It will be full moon in a week."
"I'll already be at Hogwarts then."
"Yes."
"I'm sorry Remus."
"Whatever for?"
"For not being there for you."
"You've been there when I most needed you Sam. It's not so hard now. Not after the discovery of the wolf bane potion."
"What is it?"
"It's a potion that keeps me conscious while I'm transformed. Severus makes it for me every full moon. It makes me bloody tired. But it keeps me sane."
"Does they know that the boys and I were animagi?"
"Only the Order knows. Have you already tried to transform?"
"No."
"Good. I'd rather be with you, just in case."
"Can we try tonight?"
Remus sighed.
"You want to do all at once, Mildtooth."
"Are you tired?"
"I'm not tired. I just don't want you to overdo yourself."
"I'm not. I really want to try tonight. Please Moony?"
When had Remus ever said no to those pleading blue eyes?
"To the living room then."
xxxxxxxx
Not many Wizards became animagi. It was hard work and discouraging administrative formalities. But the Marauders had never been afraid to work hard, especially to help a friend, and to do some advance magic much earlier than their fellow schoolmates. As for the paper work; well, what the Ministry didn't know couldn't hurt it right? They had not given up until every one of them could transform perfectly and with ease. It had taken over a year. Sam's animagus form asking the most effort to master the flying instinct of the bird. It was really tricky and Sam was a bit rusty. She listened carefully to Remus' advice. He was not an animagus himself, but he had assisted the other Marauders when they had trained. A few partial transformations later and after having concentrated as hard as she could, Mildtooth was agitating its wings. Sam transformed a few times more, flew around the living room and perched herself as well as she could on Remus's jukebox. He was shouting her to get away from his 'baby' when Arthur and Bill came in. Sam transformed back under their awestruck eyes.
Bill smiled.
"But why 'Mildtooth'?"
"Mildtooth because birds have obviously no teeth; and it deceives the enemy who will think that 'Mildtooth' is meant to fool him and hides a dangerous creature with lots of fangs."
"Err… right…"
"Hey, we were 14 when we chose the nicknames!" Reminded him Sam, grinning.
"Your animagus form is beautiful Sam." Added Arthur.
"Thank you."
"What are you two doing here?" Asked Remus.
"See how you and Sam were doing, make dinner…"
"Oh, I could have done it all right! Or forced Remus to cook!"
"Believe me Sam, you don't want to eat Remus' cooking. But I don't mind you helping us in the kitchen."
xxxxxxxx
Wednesday. Albus had fetched her early and they had both walked a long time in the small streets around Diagon Alley - there was a whole Wizarding district around the alley - until they reached a narrow shop with one dusty window, which was so dirty Sam couldn't even see a light inside and would have at first thought it abandoned. She could barely make out the faded words 'Furniture repository'. Albus pushed the door and she followed. An old wizard; more like a Gringotts goblin she thought; was sitting his feet on his desk smoking a black pipe. When Albus asked to see the room 71 and that the owner enquired if he had his key, Sam had definitely a feeling of déjà vu. He opened a door in the back of the shop and they stepped in an immense and narrow corridor with dozens of doors on each side. (AN: Think 'Matrix Reloaded' -)
After at least five good minutes walking, they were in front of the room 71. Albus' key opened the door and the old wizard left them.
"Here are all your old possessions I could put away under my name with your father's accord. I have always hoped we could retrieve them together one day."
"Thank you Albus. Thank you so much."
The small room was crowded with pieces of furniture from the old flat she shared with Sirius, various objects of their everyday life, some boxes labeled: photo albums, clothes, books, CDs, various. Her old broom, which had been one of the best fifteen years ago, was resting quietly against a wall next to two black motorbikes; all covered in dust. She walked to the bikes. Hers was smaller and Muggle made. It hadn't all the 'options' of Sirius flying motorbike. She smiled sadly as she read on its side in small silver letters: 'To my love - may we be free together forever'. Sirius' gift when she had passed her exams successfully and become an Auror. She didn't think she could ride it ever again. No. It was part of her memories, of the beautiful time she spent with him. She would leave it here, along with the broom and the furniture. She would only ask for a few boxes she longed to open with Remus. Now that this old life belonged to her again, she could close the door on it peacefully and move forward.
Albus let her reduce and alleviate the boxes, and they were off again.
The boxes remained closed in Sam's room all afternoon. Kingsley Shacklebolt came back to work with her again. He didn't leave her alone until she could apparate properly. Sam was burning to open her souvenirs but had promised herself to wait for Remus, so they could look at them together. She felt like he would never arrive. 6 o'clock. 7 o'clock. 7:15. She sighed and laid her book aside. She had been on the same page for the last fifteen minutes. She decided to cook, helping herself with magic as much as she could. It was a good exercise. She just hoped she hadn't lost her touch. It had been some time since she had cooked for anybody. Most of the time, the team would go for a steak and a beer in town. Since Molly had been occupied with her husband tonight, Albus and Remus were quite pleased to find the dinner ready when they came back, and she only got compliments. Her honor was safe (-!). She remembered fondly, when she had had to study or when she had been working late, how Sirius would often take care of the meals. Or tidy their flat. Or do the washing. Who would have thought he'd play the perfect little housewife for her?
"How surprising of you and Sirius. Patti Smith, The Ramones, The Clash, Bad Religion, The Who, Sex Pistols, The Beatles, The Pixies, Sex Pistols again... David Bowie?"
"That's one of Sirius' favorite."
They had already inspected the books and clothes - Sam was proud that some still fitted nicely even if most were out-of-fashion - and had come to the old muggle CDs. She would send some over to Cassie, bring her favorites at Hogwarts and leave the rest at Remus'. Lily had taught her back in their second year how to bewitch the muggle CDs so you wouldn't need a CD player. There was no electricity at Hogwarts and she had used an incredible amount of batteries in her first year. Sam had flown back to the States for every holidays those two first years, her parents wanting her at their side. After her mother's death, she would only go back for Christmas and the summer holidays. She barely saw Mark, her father was immersing himself in his work, and she was slowly constructing her own life away from them.
One box left. Photo Albums. Pictures of their years at Hogwarts, Lily and James's wedding, a few other weddings of some friends, pictures of Harry, of various places she had visited with Sirius. They would often take their motorbikes and ride for whole week-ends when Sam's work let her. They would look at each picture carefully and comment it, laughing at the anecdote behind the moving photographs. They sat together for hours before putting each box carefully away in the basement. Sam had only kept with her a picture taken on the seventh year Halloween party of Remus, Sirius, James, Lily and herself; Peter being in the infirmary that day.
xxxxxxxx
"Now, now. I believe Mister Moony did warn Mister Padfoot about the retaliations that would follow if Mister Padfoot was to pursue in interfering with Mister Moony and his paperwork. But, tss, tss. No. Mister Padfoot had to come, as the dog that he is, and scattered all Mister Moony's neatly organized pile of IMPORTANT papers, on the WET FLOOR!"
Remus screamed the last part to emphasize his point. The big black dog backed away slowly, his tail between his legs, as Remus moved forward menacingly, tapping his wand on the palm of his free hand and smiling like a madman.
Judging that his best option was to run away as quickly as he could, the dog dashed to the door, followed by the man who had expected his move.
Remus stopped dead in his tracks as he heard a yelp. Sirius had just collided with someone.
"Oh, I am so sorry Padfoot! I really should have rung first."
Seeing the visitor's face, Sirius transformed back into his human self, rubbing his head.
"Nah.. don't worry about it baby. It's all Remus' fault. Not yours."
He growled as he received another strong strike on the side of his head from his friend.
"Hi Mildtooth. I'm glad you're here. I give up. You look after that dog. He can't keep still more than twenty seconds."
"But I'm so excited, Moony! They'll soon be here with Harry!"
"They won't be here before the end of the afternoon Sirius!"
Sam watched their exchange and shook her head. Those two…
Lily and her baby were leaving St Mungo today. The three of them had only seen Harry once, at the hospital, a day after his birth. They had promised James to make the house ready for their arrival.
"And where is Peter?"
"He said he couldn't make it. He had someone sick in his family or something."
"Oh. Well I see you've cleaned the floor…All seem in place…that's good work boys!"
"I did the good work." Said Sirius contemptuously crossing his arms. "Mr. Moony here wouldn't lower himself to doing manual work."
"You enchanted the broom and dusters, Padfoot; that's hardly manual work."
"Well, I was still the one to do it while you were busy with yours 'papers'."
"And have you also taken care of Lily and James's bedroom? You know Lily wants the cradle next to their bed." Said Sam, breaking their argument. James had organized a pretty nursery next to their bedroom but, now that Harry was born, Lily wanted him to stay with them at least for a couple of months.
"Ah, I knew I had forgotten something! Well, here's your chance to atone for your sins. Go you churl!"
"Fine!" Said Remus. "Pff…Churl…really."
Once they were alone, Sirius smiled and kissed Sam sweetly.
"How was your morning?"
"Not bad. Frank had me and Fabian do quite a bit of paper work; sort the credible evidences between the dozens that say they have seen a Death Eater whenever they encounter black robes. I'm so sorry I was not here to help you guys with the cleaning."
"Don't worry about that. Besides there is still the dinner to make."
"I'll take care of that then."
"And I'll help you."
However, Sam soon found out she had difficulties working with Sirius 'helping'. True to Remus' words he couldn't concentrate and was more looking at his watch than at the vegetables he was chopping. She had only seen him once in that state, and that was when he had had a serious case of sugar-high back in their fourth year. After that he had nearly cut his fingers off for the third time, Sam kicked him out of the kitchen with the order to 'go for a fly' and wouldn't let him in, even when he scratched the door whimpering as Padfoot.
The afternoon was finally ending and when Sam and Remus thought Sirius would make an anxiety attack (Oh my God! They should have been here 2 minutes ago! What if something had happened? Do you think I should call St Mungo again? Do you think I should go looking for Prongs?), the front door opened and the three members of the Potter family stepped inside.
As they all settled in the living room to watch Harry closely and talk with the happy parents, Sam considered with amazement the changes in Sirius. He was so calm and attentive now. He could hardly take his eyes off Harry. When Lily sat next to him and handed him her new born, he hesitated and then took him slowly in his arms and cradled him as if it was the most precious and beautiful thing on earth. He looked up at Sam on his other side who was playing with Harry's little hands, smiling, his eyes filled with emotion.
Lily and James exchanged a knowing look with Remus and a grin.
"So Padfoot, I guess it's your turn now, hum?" Said James slyly.
"What?" Said Sirius distractively.
"Oh, you two would make such wonderful parents!" Added Lily.
Sam blushed and Sirius stared as if proceeding what Mrs. Prongs has said.
"Never as wonderful as you and James…" Managed Sam a bit embarrassed.
She looked back at Sirius and watched him interact with Harry. He would really make a great dad… But she was not Lily. She was certainly not ready for such responsibilities. A baby? At only 20 years old? Was Sirius ready? She loved him, yes; and she could envisage to have children with him. But not right away! It would be a mistake. What did they know of life? Most young people thought that one had no time to waste with Voldemort raging outside. You could die this very day. But if James and Lily had decided they were not too young to start a family; she felt young and immature compared to her best friend. Besides, Sirius and her weren't even married yet. Humph. Not even engaged. And she had just become an Auror. She had worked hard for this. And she had even greater dreams for herself. Dreams of a carrier in her father's footsteps. All this correspondence courses in Science she was taking… What stability could she give to a child?
She smiled as Harry yawned in Sirius' arms. One day maybe…
x
Sam paced nervously around the small waiting room of Healer Elle Mackenzie in St Mungo. She sneered at an old witch who was watching her with a face of disapproval behind her 'Witch Weekly'. Oh, lady, it is certainly not the right time to get on my already breaking nerves. It had been three days. Three days that Sirius had taken his motorbike and had left for God knows where. Three days that Lily and James had made him their Secret Keeper. Sam was angry. He had no right to leave her alone like this. Didn't he trust her abilities anymore? Didn't he trust her?! But more than angry she was scared. Terrified at what could happen if Voldemort got his hands on him.
"Idiot" She whispered, missing the old witch sending her murderous looks. "What would I do if I lost you?"
"Ms Carter?"
Sam turned. It was about time! A whole half hour she had waited!
She entered the consulting room.
"Have a seat Sam."
"Thanks Elle. So, what's wrong with me?" Elle was both her friend and her consulting physician. But seldom did she meet Sam as a patient. You learned to contain yourself and treat the minor hurts in the Aurorship. Sam was not someone who would consult at every opportunity.
"I've had you done those tests to be a 100% certain, but my first conclusions were right."
"What? What did you find?"
Elle smiled, resting her chin on her open palm.
"Sam…what were your symptoms again?"
"Tiredness…Dizziness from times to times…for about ten days now… nothing too serious. I've been better and better."
"Do you vomit?"
"No. A few headaches maybe. Listen, on the whole, I feel totally fine. I got dizzy at the office this morning and now my boss thinks I'm overworking. I came here and did your tests because he threatened to bring me to the emergency ward if I didn't consult."
"You don't have the smallest idea of what could make you unwell? No doubts?"
Sam passed her hand nervously in her long blond hair.
"Come on, Elle. You're the healer. So tell me once and for all. I can handle it."
"Very well. Sam, you're three weeks pregnant."
The young Auror only stared at her.
"Congratulations. I'm sure Sirius will be delighted at the news."
"What…What did you say again?"
"You are expecting a baby! I advise you not to spread the news at once. Wait at least until the second month in case of complications; but if you don't work too hard there shouldn't be… are you all right?"
Tears had welled up in Sam's eyes and were threatening to fall freely. Elle had never seen Sam so moved before. And from the look on her face, they wouldn't be tears of joy.
"I thought you would be happy. Don't you want this child?"
At this, Sam broke down.
"I don't know Elle." She was saying, looking away to conceal her tears. "I don't know."
x
Of course, Sirius was not there when she most needed him.
She walked straight ahead in the busy streets of muggle London. A few people turned as she passed to look surprised at the eccentric crying young woman. She was still dressed to work. Shiny black pants and combat boots, draped in a black cloak marked with the Auror Department crest. But Sam certainly couldn't care less. She was wandering about, thoughts running through her head. Pregnant. Just what she needed. It was still a few months to her 21st birthday. She couldn't even drink legally in her country, and yet she was expecting a baby? She caught herself stroking her belly. Elle's words echoed in her head. 'Don't you want this child?'. Did she want a child? Yes, as far as she could remember she had always wanted children. She had only two options now. And not having this baby, which was already growing inside of her, which was a part of her and a part of Sirius…No. Abortion was definitely out of question. She couldn't abandon what was the result of their love. But she still felt so young… And scared. She remembered that Lily had also been scared when she had learnt she was expecting. What was she scared about? Sam was scared for herself, her career, Sirius' reaction. What if he didn't want this child? Of course, He would want the baby. Sirius was made to be a father. She could clearly see his envy every time they visited Lily and James. But still, he could be so immature… She remembered how James had taken the crying frightened Lily in his arms. 'It will be worth it Lily. It will be worth it.' God, how she wished Sirius was with her now. But she was alone. For how long? Who knew. And what if something happened to him? What if he never came back? No. He would be back! Even if she had to find him and bring him back home herself! Maybe Lily was right. Maybe you shouldn't always project yourself in the future and live a little more in the present. With Voldemort more dangerous than ever, maybe it was time for her to start the family she had always wanted. As for her dreams…would a baby prevent her from working hard to achieve her goals? Like she had ever left something come in the way of her plans! If she stood true to herself, she could go through it. Yes she would. But only if Sirius was there to back her up. There was only one person who still stood between herself and her dreams. And it certainly wasn't a baby. It was Mr. Voldemort. She had promised herself to leave the Aurorship once the Dark Lord defeated. But when would that be? She enjoyed her work and wasn't complaining. But it was still her second choice. 'It will be worth it.'
Where was Sirius?!
x
It was a lost and puzzled Sam who slowly climbed the stairs to the flat on the fourth floor that she shared with Sirius. She took her keys out and her wand to remove the wards on the door, looked up and frowned. Something was wrong. The tip of her wand was glowing blue. The code of the Order for emergencies. She tapped her door with her wand and muttered a simple 'aparecium'. Words in blue became visible on her white front door.
'Enemy has gathered his forces at Dunharrow – Orders are to get there and support defense forces – all agents called up'.
Dunharrow. The attack had to be important if Albus had taken the risk to mobilized the whole Order in one place. Someone had even been sent to look for her; and judging by the color of the markings, had left half an hour ago. If only she had gone straight back to her flat…
"Shit!"
She couldn't apparate from the inside of the building because of the wards. She ran back down the corridors and stairs, taking the steps three at a time. But she hadn't reached the third floor that she came face to face with a familiar figure who had also been running but up the stairs.
"Carter, I-"
He swallowed his words as Sam's wand connected with his throat.
"Your wand."
He handed it reluctantly to her not breaking the eye contact.
"This really isn't my day. Severus Snape. My favorite Death Eater. Have you come to take care of me personally while your little friends are enjoying themselves at Dunharrow? Didn't want me to miss the party? I'm so touched Sev. But you shouldn't have worried. I was precisely on my way."
"Keep your sweet talk for your boyfriend, Carter. I'm not insulting your intelligence, so don't insult mine. I didn't come here to duel with you. If you want your dear friend Potter to live, you'll lower that wand and listen quietly."
"Threats Snape? My wand is fine where it is. Talk."
"As we 'talk', The Dark Lord is on his way to the Potters' house. To kill their son."
"That is impossible. They are protected by the Fidelius Charm and you know it."
"Not anymore. Their Secret Keeper has apparently spilled the beans."
"You're lying."
"He has betrayed you. He's been a spy all along."
"I don't know what you're trying to do Snape, but I have no time for this."
"I've heard from Voldemort himself that the Potters' Secret Keeper had handed them over to him! It seems that Black has joined the Dark Side." Said Snape raising his voice.
Sam lost it when Severus mentioned Sirius. She knew he must only be bluffing; but her blood was boiling with outrage and fear for the one she loved. She pressed her wand more forcefully on Severus' throat, backing him against the wall. She spoke dangerously low.
"What has your master done to Sirius?"
"Graciously repay him for his kindness, I guess." He answered half sarcastically. Sam was tented to hit him but wasn't confused enough to give him a chance to get away from her wand.
"What the hell are you doing here Snape?"
"You're getting old Carter. For the second time, I came to warn you that the Dark Lord is getting to the Potters'! Dunharrow is a diversion!"
"And you came to warn me out of kindness?"
"I came to warn Dumbledore but he was already gone!"
"And why would he believe you?"
"Because I am spying for him."
There was a pause.
"And you want me to believe that?!"
"You believe what you want. I did my duty. I personally don't give a shit if James goddamn Potter is killed tonight. But I thought you and your Order would value the life of his wife and son more than I do." He drawled.
"Like you ever gave a shit about anybody Snape!"
A look of pain crossed Severus' face then a faint sad smile.
"I did care once. I cared for someone so much that I will never be able to care for anybody else the rest of my life. You didn't break my heart Samantha. You slaughtered it."
"Well, I'm so sorry. No, in fact I'm not. I find very difficult to feel remorse for hurting anything that bears a Dark Mark."
Severus lips tightened.
"The Potters live in Godric Hollow. The Dark Lord will supervise the progress of his Death Eaters' assault and leave. You have about 30 minutes to warn Potter, I guess. My absence at Dunharrow couldn't have gone unnoticed any longer. If the boy wasn't Vol…Voldemort's priority tonight, he would surely already have summoned me to punish my 'desertion'."
"That is quite a risk you're taking then."
"It is. I couldn't go myself. Potter would never have believed me."
"And you made a serious mistake if you ever thought I would fall into the trap."
"You of all people should know that I unfortunately owe Potter my life. It is not in my interest to see him dead before I could repay this debt."
Severus' expression was grave. This life debt…It was true. When James saved Snape that one time. Of all the magical bonds, it was maybe one of the strongest link that could connect two wizards. One would never be free until he had repay his debt. And if James died…Severus would have to fulfill this obligation towards Lily or Harry… And if they also died…Then he might never be able to live normally. It was indeed not in his interest to see him die before he could repay this debt and Sam was starting to give credit to his tale. Part of it at least.
Sam took a step back, her wand still pointed towards Snape but not touching anymore.
"Upstairs."
She led him into her flat, on her guard.
"Godric Hollow?"
"Yes." Confirmed Severus hastily, relieved to see she was finally trusting him.
"And were is that exactly?"
"I don't know!"
"Great. Well, if you'll excuse me, I don't have much time to find out apparently, so I'll be going." She raised her wand.
"You can't go alone! Not if Voldemort falls on you! Sam, let me com-"
"Petrificus totalus!"
Severus fell backwards petrified.
"I'll trust you one more time Severus; and if tonight I can save Lily, James and Harry, I will forgive you and help you. But if you have deceived me; even dead I'll make you pay for it."
She had to find Godric Hollow, and if she doubted she would find it magically, she could always search like any muggle who had the name of an unknown place would. She crossed the room and pick a big yellow book. Her atlas of the Magical and Muggle United Kingdom. She looked for 'Godric Hollow' in the index. Three sites had this name, but only one was in England.
"Got you."
It would be tricky to apparate as she had never been there before. But she had to try. She locked Severus up in the flat, put the wards back on her door and left. Aurors were trained to break the Petrificus; but even if Severus knew the technique, it would take him quite some time to break her powerful charm. Even then, he wouldn't be able to leave the room. Not the way she had protected it. She took a deep breath, looked at her watch and ran outside.
x
Windy and dark earlier than usual. Just how a Halloween night should be. You couldn't apparate in a perimeter of a mile around the house. Sam ran this remaining distance without stopping. Of course, their current meeting location had been empty. She has still left a message. But that had made her lose some precious minutes. There were lights on in the house. Sam banged on the door, quite out of breath but shouting James' name nonetheless. She raised her wand, ready to knock the door down, when she heard movement inside. James opened, almost dropping his wand in surprise when he saw her.
"Thanks God! James, you're fine. Oh, God, yes, you're alright."
"Sam…But… How did you find me?!"
"You have to leave! Now! Where is Lily? You have to leave! Voldemort has found you!"
"Sam, get inside and calm down."
"No! You don't understand! He is coming after Harry!"
She heard a cry and looked behind James' shoulder. Her eyes met Lily's green orbs. She was holding Harry in her arms.
"Sam?"
"Oh, Lily."
She let James push her gently inside and told them how Snape had warned her that Voldemort would come tonight to Godric Hollow.
"If Snape gave me the right location, then the rest of his story is also true. I don't know what they did to Sirius…" She gulped unconsciously passing her hand on her belly. "…But they know. You have to flee!"
"That…that bastard. Traitor!" James exclaimed breaking the first thing his hand came in contact with. A china decorative plate.
"Sirius would never betray you! He might be dead! And maybe it's better 'cause he'd rather die than betray you!" She shouted indignantly, tears forming in her eyes. James looked at her and softened. He put his hands on her shoulders.
"No, of course Sirius would never betray us. But Sirius has never been our Secret Keeper. It is Peter."
"Peter?! But…"
"We choose him on Sirius' advice. It was a good idea after all. That dear Peter. Who would have thought we would be sold up by him of all people! And I even got so far as rather suspect that faithful Remus to spy on us rather than him. How too bloody stupid for words one can be!"
"Peter…We'll get back at him; but now there is no time! We have to leave!"
Harry suddenly started crying and wouldn't stop as Lily rocked him gently.
James glanced at the window and gasped. A luminous dot could be seen approaching the house in the black night. It was moving impressively fast.
"He is here." Sam whispered. "Get to the back door now!"
James looked at Lily and his son.
"There is no back door. I'll held him back. You run with Lily and you don't look back until you can apparate."
"Hell no, Prongs. I keep him busy while you get your wife and son out of here!"
Lily stepped between them her eyes riveted to the window and shook her head. The glow was gone. Voldemort had seen them.
"He is too close and it is too dark outside. We would never make it until we can apparate. Not with Harry."
She was right. It was too late to flee.
"Then you girls go in Harry's room and barricade yourselves in there."
"Prongs, you go with Lily and I-"
"You do what I tell you Sam! There's no time to argue!"
"Let me fight him with you!"
"I need you to protect Lily and Harry! If I can't stop him, you have to be with her! Please Sam, do this for me!" He pleaded.
She nodded reluctantly.
James kissed his wife and crying son, and Sam dragged Lily upstairs to the nursery, living him on his own.
She and Lily did what Prongs had instructed. All was silent but their breathing and Harry's cries in his cradle. But soon they heard the sound of voices outside. They looked out of the window and could make out two figures lighted by flashes of light. They were dueling. Sam put an arm around the trembling Lily.
"I won't let anything harm you or Harry."
Voldemort had backed James on the porch. The girls could not see them anymore from their window. Lily turned to Sam. She might be trembling but her eyes were dry and her expression far from being one of defeat. Lily was always so strong.
"I wish you hadn't come. I'm sorry we're putting you in danger. What would Sirius say if something happened to you?"
"Well, I am glad I am with you." Said Sam taking her hand. "I've missed you, you know. Three days, and I already can't live without my best friend."
They could hear James shout a curse. There were flashes of light in the night as he dueled with Voldemort, like flashes of lightning. The walls shook and Harry's cries redoubled.
Lily bent on his cradle soothing him gently. Sam watched her as the walls shook again.
"You know Lil" she said suddenly. "I was in St Mungo today. I was consulting."
Lily raised her head. She couldn't keep it to herself. Not if she would die tonight. Lily was so calm and Sam felt like crying again.
"She said I was pregnant. Can you believe this, Lil? Me, pregnant! I don't know how Sirius and I are going to work this one out!" She forced a laugh.
Lily came to her side and took her in her arms.
"You'll be fine Sam. You and your baby. I won't let anything happen to you. You'll live to be the greatest mum."
"Hey, that was my line! I'm the one to protect you, remember? I promise Prongs. I will die protecting you."
There was definitely an explosion this time downstairs and they almost both fell over. Lily rushed to Harry. He was fine but still terrified.
"Die…protecting you…" She repeated.
"Lily?"
Lily straightened and smiled at Sam. She frowned but smiled back. She started and ran to the window as a flash of green light pierced through the darkness coming apparently from the ground floor. The shouting had stopped. The silence was back.
"He…he may have passed by James. Lily, stay close to Harry and –"
She was cut short as a curse hit her square in the back. She fell on the floor petrified. Lily knelt down at her side, her wand in her hand.
"Forgive me Sam. But I won't let you get yourself killed for me. You're going to be angry with me for what I'm about to do. But it is the only way I have left to save my son. He has killed James, Sam. I have no reason to live if my son is taken from me. You'll understand when you'll give birth to your baby. Then you'll understand." She bent and kissed Sam's forehead, then her cheeks. Sam could hear and see. Her eyes being the only thing she could move. She looked at Lily, screaming inside for her to stop this madness and release her. Lily's curse was surprisingly strong and no matter how much she concentrated, Sam couldn't break it. Hadn't Lily always proven to be the best in Charms?
"I love you Sam. You're my best friend ever, remember? You've always been more of a sister to me than my own sister ever was. I don't know how many times I've wished we had been of the same blood. He wants Harry, he won't harm you. I won't let him. You'll have to take care of Harry for me. I trust you."
She rose and went to her son's cradle again, singing softly.
Sam couldn't see her clearly. Then she heard her wards giving in and the door slamming open. She was terrified but only her eyes expressed her suffering. Her heart was beating so fast it was going to explode. She heard the calm footsteps of a man. He spoke and her blood froze.
"The father and now the mother. Oh, and the godmother. But I see you have already made sure this lady would not interfere. She seems crossed at her predicament but I believe you have well protected her for now. Very good. I will repeat my request then, and you may prove yourself wiser than your late husband, woman."
James…
"I am only after this baby behind you. Step aside and live."
Sam was struggling against the curse. Lily didn't move but something rolled towards Sam. Lily's wand?! What was she playing at?!
"Complying I see. Good. Step aside."
"No."
Sam could see Lily advancing towards Voldemort. His red eyes screwing in disgust as she pleaded him.
"Not Harry, not Harry, please not Harry! Don't take my son! He is all I have now!"
"Stand aside, you silly girl…I said stand aside, now!"
"Not Harry, please no, take me, kill me instead!"
The Dark Lord was moving forward, his wand in hand, but Lily didn't step back, shielding the cradle with her body. And Sam still couldn't move; no matter how hard she tried, the Charm was too powerful.
"Not Harry! Please… Have mercy… Have mercy…"
She saw Lily fall backwards as Voldemort pushed her off him. She turned her head towards Sam. Their eyes met briefly. Lily smiled at her sadly and rose, tears running down her soft white cheeks.
"For the last time, step aside!" He roared, peculiarly infuriated by Lily's determination to protect her son.
Lily only shook her head. Voldemort shouted the killing curse and green light filled Sam's vision, soon replaced by the sickening image of Lily's fallen body.
"Lily." She had shouted it but it had come as a murmur.
She was making progress with the Petrificus. Unfortunately, Voldemort heard her. He walked up to her and bent until his face was inches from hers. Sam could feel his breath on her face. Her eyes were glued on Lily's livid face. She couldn't look away. Voldemort traced her jaw with his gloved finger.
"How pathetic your little friend was, wasn't she? Giving her life for this." He indicated Harry's cradle. The baby had never ceased to cry and now that his mother was dead, he seemed desperate. "Harry Potter. The boy who is supposed to put an end to my starting reign. Would you like to see me killing him from a better angle?" He forced her to meet his red snakelike eyes. A single tear fell from her eye.
"It seems that this Petrificus is fading now that its caster is dead. It was quite a powerful Charm if the great young Auror Samantha Carter couldn't break it. Quite gifted she was, this mudblood. Was she more powerful than you? And yet, she was as stupid as her idiot of a husband. Birds of a feather flock together, hum. Well, it would be a pity if you lowered yourself to Sirius Black's level."
Hearing Sirius' name, Sam' eyes left Lily's form to focus on those of her murderer. She felt light headed.
"The Blacks are a noble and old pureblood family. Yes. One who wouldn't mix with mudbloods such as you, my dear Samantha." He was smiling, and seemed more terrifying than ever before with this expression. "But I guess Sirius Black shouldn't be counted as one of them anymore. I will have to take care of him. I cannot let the boy tarnish a name loyal to my dominion." He spoke into her ear. "I think I should keep you alive until then. I would not want you to think that I privileged one mudblood over another by letting her die with her lover."
She closed her eyes as she felt his cold lips on her temple. A few seconds more and she would be free…She felt his breath against her ear again and his wand on her stomach.
"Alive but not unpunished. You have been a very bad girl; coming here to warn your friends, haven't you? We will have to figure out together how you found them later on. But for now… Crucio." He whispered.
Sam screamed as an excruciating pain filled her belly and shot through all her body. Four times Voldemort repeated this torture, leaving Sam weak and agonizing. She was taken by a series of spasms in her lower abdomen. She shook violently and cough blood.
"Internal bleeding, maybe? Oh, well, we will take care of that later. I promise you will not die before your boyfriend. Are you happy? Now if you will excuse me…"
Internal bleeding? The baby…Not her baby. No. He rose and moved towards Harry's cradle. Not her baby. Had she said it aloud? Why was Voldemort laughing? She couldn't moved. She felt as if her body was broken. Did he say Harry? She had to protect Harry. Yes, she had promised Lily. In a strenuous effort, she turned her head to meet Lily's dead face. She raised her eyes and saw Voldemort lowering his wand into Harry's cradle.
"Harry…No…Not the baby…no…don't kill my baby…" She barely managed. Her vision was so blurred now she could hardly make out her surroundings. She was struggling to stay conscious.
"AVADA KEDAVRA."
A green light filled her vision. And the whole house shook so hard it must have had crumbled down. Green. Like Lily's eyes. She must have fainted but the green never give way to the blackness of unconsciousness. Voldemort was gone. And Harry was still crying. Were her eyes opened or closed? How much time passed? Harry's voice was hoarse and tiny now. He had cried for so long. Green. Nothing broke into the vivid green light. It hurt her eyes. But opened or closed, everything was green now. Only a face slowly became visible against the green. A man's face. Someone she knew. He was crying. He was holding her close. Was the green hurting him too? She felt protected in his arms. She felt dizzy. And suddenly the green gave way to blackness. She passed out.
xxxxxxxx
Sam opened her eyes at once and staggered to the bathroom. She felt sick and feverish. But she couldn't vomit. She dropped to the floor beside the toilet seat, breathing heavily, her head in her hands. Thursday. 5:00 AM.
"Sam, are you in here? I heard you leaving your room. Sam? I'm coming in alright?"
An already dressed Remus peered through the half opened door. Seeing his friend in this bad way, he hurried at her side, asking what was wrong. She didn't answer. Another wave of dizziness passed her. Remus soothed her back as she clutched the seat. He then put her arm around his shoulders and led her back to her bed. He gave her a glass of water and stayed with her until her breathing was even again. She had fallen back to sleep.
Sam didn't appear downstairs before the afternoon. Remus hadn't left the house in case she didn't feel better. But she assured him she was fine now, that something she had eaten did not agree with her. Remus did not question her, although he found a sad air to her tired features. She studied her books quietly with him, and left to go flying with the promise not to go too far away. When she came back, Albus had arrived. She requested to speak privately with him. They stood on the porch. It was already quite cold outside. The weather was definitely more temperate than in Colorado.
"Is there something troubling you Sam?"
She turned to face Albus.
"I remember what happened the night of James and Lily's death."
"You do?"
"It won't help you much. I'm sorry, but I don't have anything extraordinary to reveal. It happened just like you had deducted. Snape came to warn me. I rushed to Godric Hollow. Voldemort arrived and it was too late for us to get away. James fought with him and died. Then Lily. She had me petrified. Voldemort put me under the Cruciatus curse several times before trying to kill Harry. His mistake." She paused. "Did you know Albus? Did you know I had just learned I was pregnant that day?"
The old headmaster didn't answer right away. He spoke very softly.
"I was told by Dr. Mackenzie that you had lost your baby because of the wounds inflicted by the Cruciatus curse. I am sorry Samantha."
"Did my father know? Did Sirius?" She whispered.
"Your father was warned at the same time than I was. As for Sirius… Yes, he was told when he brought you to the emergency ward."
Sam wasn't sure if she was relieved or not that Sirius had known.
"Does anybody else know?"
"No. No one else but the healers who took care of you in St Mungo."
xxxxxxxx
Friday. Sam hadn't 'dreamed' at all that night. She must have still be shaken by her last visions. She had no choice but put her pain aside and concentrate on the tasks at hand. She felt surprisingly calm now. Detached. As if all this had not happened to her. She practiced, read, and practiced again, with her old punk music at full volume.
Tonight she would finally meet the Order. Their headquarters were in Grimmauld Place; the gloomy house of Sirius' parents that Sam had seen in the pensive. When a body disappeared, there was a legal period of a year and seventy days before the person was recognized dead by the law. Then, his will took effect, or if there was no will, his possessions went to his relatives. And if there were no relatives, to the Ministry. Grimmauld Place still belonged to Sirius.
She shivered as she passed the threshold. You had to be Sirius' mad mother to want to live there… Her infuriating portrait still hung to the wall. As well as the heads of the house elves. And Sirius had been confine in this depressing house for months? After all this time, being confronted again to what he had deserted – his parents, this place… She wondered if he had felt any better there than he had in Azkaban…
Remus, Molly, Arthur, Bill, Charlie, Kingsley, Dedalus Diggle and his violet top hat, which fell off as he shook her hand excitingly, Elphias Doge with his wheezy voice and his silver hair, Alastor Moody who hadn't changed a bit but seemed moved to see her again, and at last, Sturgis Podmore, the Square-jawed wizard with thick straw colored hair, about two years older than her. All this people she already knew and was glad to meet again.
A few new members had also joined the ranks. Mundungus Fletcher, who she would never trust money to; Hestia Jones, a pink-cheeked black-haired kind-looking witch; Emmeline Vance, a stately-looking witch; and Nymphadora Tonks, or 'Tonks' as she called herself, having justqualified as an Auror the year before. She was Metamorphmagus, changing her appearance at her will, and apparently related to Sirius. She shook Sam's hand shyly, her hair changing three times of color. She had apparently heard a lot about her from Kingsley and Moody. Maybe it was because of her amiable countenance or her link with Sirius, but Sam felt close and protective towards the young woman.
Hagrid, Professor McGonagall and Severus were in Hogwarts, and a certain squib of the name of Arabella Figg who had watched over Harry as the Dursleys' neighbor was also missing.
They all had dinner together and talked, both about themselves and the upcoming events. Sam related what she knew again. No plans were made, but they were now all acquainted with each other and ready to face the upcoming year.
xxxxxxxx
Saturday. 1: 00 PM. Sam was working with Albus in front of the house. The old wizard was really powerful and Sam could only block his attacks every other time.
"You are doing better Sam. I am impressed."
Was he making fun of her? She was currently spread on the grass with her wand a good four meters away. Again.
"I think we should stop for now. I am more than satisfied."
"You are?" She asked doubtingly.
"Yes." He helped her back to her feet. "Now, I want you to start packing. We are leaving for Hogwarts tonight."
"Tonight?! You're cheating! I should still have tomorrow to practice!"
Albus shook his head.
"You are ready. There is no more need to wait."
Sam stared at him. She was?
He smiled.
Sam picked up her wand, grinned and ran back to her room.
Finally. She had made it. She was ready. YES! And overexcited. And nervous. It was time. Hogwarts had better be prepared.
The fifth Marauder was coming back.
=============================================
Author's Note:
Chapter 10: The ways of Magic.
I did what I had promised. The whole week went by in one chapter. I'm sorry it's still a bit slow. But when I go fast, I write less dialogues and more dense paragraphs; and I know you have more fun with the dialogues than with my annoying long descriptions… That's why I've botched up a bit the end… This chapter was getting too long and boring… It's my longest chapter yet. But I'm afraid the next ones won't be so long. It took me ages to get to the end.
I'm so evil, am I not? After having been mad, amnesic, tortured; Sam has now lost a child. I think I am really perturbed. Oh, well, at least it gives me something to write about… lol
I always have fun coming up with explanations for unessential details. He he.. But where do the Wizards put their wands if they are in jeans and tee-shirt?! I couldn't figure it out so I made up the holster thingy !
As for what happened on the night of Halloween, it was past 2:00 AM when I came up with the "green" speech. I find it way more funny than alarming as I reread this passage…
Chap 11: The problems of a DADA teacher or how to teach 15 year old kids the theory of interstellar vortex. (?)
laugh Could work as a title, hum? Sam surely will have to work hard not to bump off Draco Malfoy and a few other unmanageable Slytherins…
And how will her meeting with Snape go, I wonder…
We have currently a Japanese anime called 'GTO' (great Teacher Onizuka) on TV. I hope some of you have seen it. It's really cool. I have already read all the mangas of this series. It is about this young man who had been at the head of a gang in his high school and against all forms of authority. He decides to become a teacher. But he has a hard time to get his pupils' respect… And that is an understatement LOL
Nah… I think I'm already sadistic enough with my poor poor Sam (muahahaha) to put her through all what this poor sex maniac of Onizuka has to go through -!
Peace and Love in all your countries.
Special thanks to all my reviewers who never leave me down.
..:::}{ This fanfiction is dedicated to my best friend Lara}{:::..
Jaina Solo.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Disclaimer: (oups, forgot the disclaimer in my last chapter…)
Hum, hum. Why do you people still ask if I own Harry Potter or any of the Stargate SG1 characters?! OF COURSE I DO!! Or at least, the cardboard version of them I kiss every night before going to bed…