A/n- Yes, again... I swear, it'll end at some point! Honest... ::looks around skeptically:: Really! Honest- ::Harry's Sneakoscope starts going off madly::
Damn! ::bashes the wretched thing, smiles innocently in fashion of James and Sirius::

Disclaimer- I own nothing, they own everything. Quite simple, really.

Rating- A strong PG-13 for language, because no one is happy during wars.



Seeing Grey - Part LI - Rhetoric



Care to play a game? Remus asked lightly, sliding into the chair. It had been a day since Alex had showed up for any classes after reading the news headlines. From then on, he had remained in the Gryffindor Tower, only leaving for brief meals.

he mumbled, looking away.

Come on, I haven't played in a while. I'm sure you can slaughter me. Remus joked, setting out his chess pieces. After a moment of thought, the Chaser faced him, though he kept his head down for a long while as his King gave him a pep-talk.

I... I can't do it. he blurted out, dropping his bishop a few moves into the game. It scarcely took a second for Remus to understand that he wasn't talking about chess.

The piece pushed itself upright, and scolded his commander in a minute voice while Alex started to shake slightly.

If they're doing something illegal, you need to tell someone.

I can't, you don't... You don't get it.

Don't you always say that your family isn't exactly pleasant to you? Remus tried. He felt odd, trying to help someone else with a family crisis, when he had no proper family experiences to speak of. If you get them straightened out, maybe you can find-

You don't GET IT! he screeched out, eliciting a few stares from the House students who hadn't departed for bed. His hands fell back to the table, and in a broken, slow motion, Alex shrank back to his chair.

You're right, I don't understand. Explain, if you will... Remus said quietly as a throng of Gryffindor's headed for their dorms, wanting to avoid the possible fight.

They'll kill me. he snapped in a whisper. They really will kill me.

Come on, they're your parents! They wouldn't hur-

I'm the filth of the family Remus, the scum on their bloodline. he explained, eyes squinted shut. A Gryffindor, a pathetic little Gryffindor who doesn't understand the family business... Some weak excuse for an Avery. I'm nothing to them. Nothing. I'm sure even werewolves have a better life than me. Alex laughed, though there was no true humour in his chortle.

Remus swallowed, his throat closing momentarily.

You really should tell someone... That doesn't mean turn them in, you know, you could leave a tip, or... he sighed, and shook his head. I know it isn't my place to tell you how to handle this. I'm just, well, it's sick what these people are doing. After what happened with my brother, I can't stand to imagine it could be the same for someone else.

I'll tell Dumbledore then... But not right now. I need to talk to my brother first, maybe there's a chance he'll wake up or something. Alex said at last, promising he would go for help. Remus tried to smile encouragingly, and he placed his queen in position to be taken.

It'll work out, don't worry.



Are you sure this is safe? Peter asked for what seemed to be the hundredth time.

Or legal for that fact? Remus added. For once, once in a rare moon, he was sharing Peter's paranoid anxiety.

I'm sure it's legal. James said with an annoyed roll of his eyes.

And it's safe as long as Peter stays away from the cauldron. You too Moony... Sirius added, watching the smaller boy step back from the boiling potion. They had taken up residence in the Prefects bathroom, since it was out of commission due to their latest bombing spree, and, more importantly, because it was very large and luxurious.

Actually, I doubt this is legal at all. Remus mumbled, picking up one of the potion books that lay scattered about the room.

Who cares? Sirius asked rhetorically, dropping a poorly estimated amount of powdered salamander claw into the brew. Green slime bubbled over the edge, snapping violently and secreting a foul odor, though he calmly kicked it along towards the drain.

The Ministry might. Do you have any idea how many illegal ingredients you guys stole... Er, borrowed?

Er, six? James tried. Another bubble exploded, and he had to wipe his glasses vigorously for a while afterwards to remove the mess.

Peter corrected, doing a brief count of the vials sitting on a bench nearby.

Actually, fourteen. I nabbed a Chimera claw today while Peter was spilling boiled armadillo mucus all over the counter. Sirius added.

Remus shook his head, smiling in amusement.

Only three more detentions. Peter whined several minutes later.



Three more till we hit the Big O. Sirius and James said in unison.

Big O?

they exclaimed in delight, Peter displaying the opposite.

Remus said curiously.

Since you joined up, and we became the Marauders, we've allotted nine hundred and ninety-seven detentions. James said with an air of great pride.

Our greatest achievement... Only three more detentions, and we shall set a record none shall dare to break! Sirius declared. One thousand detentions... My proudest hour will be when I march into whatever classroom to perform whatever meager task of slavery.

You are one twisted prat. Peter said, backing away sharply before he would be thrown into the pool-sized bathtub.

Why thank you. Sirius smirked.

Er, Padfoot?



You do realise the cauldron is overflowing, don't you?

Sirius looked at his shoes, the leather of which was easily being burnt through by the spilt acid of their potion. After cursing extensively, he hopped around like a madman, trying to remove his shoes.

With a grin, Remus shoved him into the bath. The acid fizzed for a second, and Sirius smiled like the devil had possessed him.

You're in for it now Moony! Get back here! he demanded, jumping out of the water and shaking his shaggy hair like a dog. Come on, Moony needs bath too!

Just for the sake of entertainment, James casually knocked Peter into the water as well, before being dragged down by Remus.

Hey, come on Prongs, we need to finish that potion! Sirius gasped, surfacing for a breath of air before being shoved back under in a splash.

No we don't, Pete's the only one who needs the damn thing. Stupid git can't transform quick enough... Ah! Peter, cut that out!



He should be here in five minutes. James whispered, snickering slightly as he slipped under the Cloak.

No, he's talking to Garrison on the third floor. Remus pointed out, finger trailing over the little dot on the map.

Damn, Sirius will be to early then...

Run back and get him then.

Not enough time. James muttered, looking around angrily. He spotted Peter hiding away behind a tapestry, and quickly consulted him. A second later, a stubby rat was shoved into the hall, and it scampered off in a hurry.

He should be able to get there... This better work.

Even if it fails we'll have another number to your grand tally. Remus said.

But they have to count.

If you say so-

Shh- He's coming!

Remus paused, and sniffed the air, trying to catch onto the scent.

That isn't Snape. he confirmed, looking at the Map. But... Prongs, why isn't it labeled?

That's odd. James whispered to himself, face scrunched up in confusion.

Maybe the Map is having difficulties recovering from Sirius' last escape in the dungeons.

No, it shouldn't be doing this. We have everyone included on the list, it's impossible for anyone to not show up. James snapped to himself. What is wrong with this blasted thing?

Remus again sniffed the air, and what he realised formed a little click' in the back of his mind. Like a completed circuit, he smiled in understanding.

Nothing's wrong with your bloody map James Potter.

Remus snickered again as Lily stormed into their hiding place, her face showing she was far from pleased.

So this is how you always turn up wherever I am? she snapped. This is how you conveniently find your way and pester me every time I'm in the showers? Lily shrieked, face flustered.

Remus had to try very hard not to laugh, for he didn't feel like facing the wrath of a violated Slytherin girl. He chose to bite on the corner of his hand for safety, backing up some distance as Lily closed in on her prey.



Don't you say anything. Lily interrupted. You've been spying on me! How dare you!

Lils, please, you-

I don't get it, no? she said, emerald eyes glinting black. She was frowning to such an extent James was now frowning, fearful of how his girlfriend would inevitably injure him.

Lily, I'm sorry. he managed to squeak in between her fits of anger. She stopped dead, and stared.

I shouldn't have been checking up on you, but you know, you're dead gorgeous. If any guy came near you I wanted to know so I could wring the little wankers neck. James said, wiping his glasses on his robes as he always did when he was nervous. I didn't really mean to spy on you, you know.



You've got all reason to be angry, yeah. he continued. And I'll remember that. I guess I'll just have to be more trusting, right?

For a moment, both Gryffindors thought Lily was going to yell again, scolding the both of them for the capabilities of the Map. In an unexpected display of forgiveness, she took a step forward, and instead hugged James.

Remus smirked to himself, chuckling deep in his throat. James looked shocked, as he had been bracing to be slapped again, part of the reason he had removed his glasses. After a brief moment to realised things had apparently gone well, he returned the embrace with a shrug to Remus.

Er, hate to break up the moment... It's terribly touching and all, but Snape's coming. Remus informed.

Lily perked up, and smiled in a mixed way. It was one of those disapproving but interested grins that only a Slytherin could muster.



Getting even for something he did to Moony. A couple things, actually.

That, and they want to test out a new Itching Charm they've altered. Remus added.

Well, I might as well stick about. I came all this way to tell you off, now I have nothing to do. Lily mused.


Look at this. Sirius said, dropping his mop. Professor McGonnagal had found the lot shortly after Snape had been induced with the effects of a highly potent Itching Charm (that still remained to be lifted, James bragged). Consequentially, Lily and the the Marauders had been sentenced to clean all the staff offices one by one, a gruesome job that involved filing papers correctly and yet disturbing anything at all.

Remus set aside his pile of third-year essays, and carefully stepped over stacks of boxes Lily had set around the room.

What is it? he inquired, watching briefly out of the corner of his eye as Lily and James disappeared to a broom closet.

Dunno, it's from the Ministry though. Sirius said, expertly breaking the seal without disturbing the thick envelope. He pried out the letter, and unfolded it quickly.

Whoa, that's... Horrible... Sirius murmured, shaking his head solemnly. He propped himself up on the desk, cringing as he continued to read.

Here, take a look. he finally said, handing over the parchment.

To Celia Horder,
Auror, Fourth Class
Newheart Division Seven
Stationed Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Celia, it's Dean. I know this is a bad time to have to tell you, but you need to know and I can't put it off any longer. To be short, Andrew's entire squad is dead. We found their bodies, or what's left of them, during a raid north of London, in the Burnout area. If you want to come and identify some, we could sure as hell use you're help. I don't have the qualifications to sign the death certificates or officially determine what needs done. I'm sorry it has to be you, but there isn't anyone else who knew them well enough for legalities to pass. Unspeakables aren't allowed to work with this type of situation.
I could use you down here Saturday if you can manage it. McPhearson's squad came in last night, and half of them are dead or otherwise. It's a nightmare in our Department. Boss is too damn stubborn to admit we're not going to able to fight this any longer without calling in a draft, and you know how opposed to that he is. I have a sick feeling you'll be doing field work' soon enough, much to my disgust. I pray to God this thing ends before anyone else goes through what we are. The Dark Arts Department is saying that if another hostage situation goes underway, we wont be able to do anything about it. We've got enough on our hands with the werewolf plague to worry about terrorist negotiations.
On another note, we got your sister's analysis back. Regulation wont allow me tell you now, but dammit, this is getting out of hand. They're connected with Andrew's lot, I'm almost dead certain about that. Seriously, just get down here, I don't want to lose my job telling you now.

And remember, I'm here if you need me, even though I know it's futile trying to wedge some support to you. Count your blessings Celia,

Dean Callahan
Auror, First Class
Defense/Security Department
Office 93012, Section B
British Ministry of Magic International


We shouldn't be reading this. Remus said to himself, folding it up. Sirius seemed not to have heard, as he was eagerly working on another envelope on Ms. Horder's desk.

Come on Padfoot, this isn't our business.

Awe, you're no fun! Come on, just one more, then-

Finish mopping the floor. Remus snapped, thrusting the mop into his friends' hands. Sirius grumbled for a minute, and reluctantly set down the letter after Remus glared once more. It was only two days until the full moon, and he had since learned it wasn't a good idea to annoy him at night during so close a phase.

You take all the fun out of detentions, you know that? he said, sloshing his mop around in a bucket of murky water thoughtfully.

Yes, well, you have my damn morals to blame. My restrictions on blackmailing the emotionally traumatized do limit your revelry, I take?

Sirius said quietly. He stopped scrubbing at the floor, and looked around suddenly.

Where are Prongs and Lily?

Remus snickered to himself again as Sirius made a mixed face of pride and disgust.



Dad says we should call you Uncle again. So I will. I hope schools good for you, dad says I can go someday maybe. I hope so. It sounds fun. Jason wants to say hi too. Well we have to go. Dads making dinner. I hope it isnt hamburgers, there really gross. Bye Remis.

Corey

Remus smiled in an odd way. It was the first time he had seen them officially call Caleb dad', and it was funny to him. Caleb was no more capable of raising children than he was, and that wasn't saying very much.

Hey, Moony... Pash th' g'lic saush,

We need to get down. James pointed out, snatching a spoonful of the topping as it was passed in front of him. It's getting close to dark.

Remus looked up at the ceiling which reflected the sky outside. Already the sun was glowing towards the edge behind grey clouds, hanging on barely as the darkness began to show itself. With a dreadful sigh, he nodded his head.

Chipper up there Moony. Sirius said, wiping his mouth on his sleeve. I found a new place for us to haunt.

Count me out. Peter interrupted, shutting another one of his many books.

Little twit. Sirius growled.

Egotistical prat-



Filthy git-

Will both of you just SHUT UP? James yelled. The pair stopped bickering, and the neighboring tables turned to stare.

Thank you. he said, scowling slightly at those who were glaring at him.

I'm going back to the Gryffindor Tower for a few minutes. Remus announced quietly, slipping out of his chair.

Alright, we'll meet you outside. Sirius said in a short breath as Remus inconspicuously made way back to the dormitories.

Stupid curse. he told no one in particular. The wolf as beginning to taunt him again. Quickening pace, he turned a corner, fighting his own mind to stay out.

Stop it. he whispered, stopping momentarily. It had been a while since the wolf had been so strong, so desperate to claim his body. Leave me alone...


Hello. What's your name?

I'm Geoffrey. You?

Name's Remus Lupin. he said brightly, hopping onto the swing. After one short kick, he was swinging higher than the other boy.

he said shortly, looking away. I'm not s'posed to play with you. he announced.

Why not? Remus asked.

My mum says your sick.

S'not con... Con... Con-tag-e-ous. he said with some difficulty, trying to remember what his mother had told him. And I'm not really sick. Only every now n then. Remus shrugged, trying to smile hopefully. It wasn't often that he found a boy his age who didn't have a mother around to whisper and pull their child away.

Geoffrey said. He looked around, supposedly for his parents, and he too shrugged. Dunno if I should stay, my mum told me not to play with you. he repeated.

Just cause I'm sick every once in a while?

I guess.

That's dumb. Remus declared.

Yeah, I reckon... Parents are pretty dumb sometimes. he said with a concealed giggle, delighted to freely speak ill of his elders.

Yeah. Lots'a parents don't like me. Dunno why, but my brother says it's cause of, well, cause I was bitten by a wolf. I don't really understand. he muttered, swinging higher and higher, the chains of the play set rattling with each thrust.



Both boys turned to see who had shrieked, and were confronted by a disgruntled mother in her middle thirties. She yelled again, pulling her son down off the swings.

I told you to never come near that... That... That thing! she hissed, pointing at Remus as though he were a diseased creature. Come home, right now young man!

But ma', he didn't do anythin', we were just swinging and-

NOW Geoffrey. she spat, pushing her son along towards the col de sac. She turned sharply, and presented the frightened little eight year old with a glare that could make a grown man wince.

Don't you dare come near my son again! You leave my family alone, you filthy beast. You're parents should have put you down.

Black robes billowing out behind her, the enraged mother stormed off, yelling at her son up ahead.

Cold hands clutched at the chains, as tightly as the lips that remained shut.

he whispered, again not understanding the hatred he received for only being himself.


Leave me alone! Remus snapped again, holding at his head.

Are you alright?

Peering through rapidly fogging eyes, Remus swallowed tightly. Snape. Goody.

he growled.

Snape returned, offering an arm. Rather reluctantly, Remus accepted the gesture and was pulled to his feet.

The moon rises early tonight, though I doubt you pay an ounce of attention in Astronomy with Potter and Black there. You'd be best to start listening. he advised.

Yeah, thanks.

Where are those invalids you call friends, anyway? I always see you lot around this time, prancing about like a bunch of drunken fools. Not to imply that you don't always appear as such, but I find it amusing that they abandon you.

We weren't aware of the early rise. Remus snapped, despite how hard he tried to contain the bitterness. he added.

Snape looked briefly at his watch, and shrugged once. You'd be wise to leave soon, less you favour devouring me. On second thought, please do leave. I don't fancy myself the meal of a lunatic.

Oh very funny. Like I haven't heard that one before.



Well, the Call of the Prats beckons you. I'll be off before I'm spotted being decent in your presence. Snape said with a mocking bow.

I'll never understand you. Remus said loudly. I thought you couldn't stand me.

The Slytherin turned around, displaying his famous scowl.

You doubt my hatred? Such a fool you are, Lupin. I merely wish to harass you when you're weak.

That would explain it. Remus said with a small smile.

Yes. Well, have a wonderful evening. Try not to kill off the Forbidden Forest.

Thanks for the encouraging advice. Remus chuckled.

I figured such.

What the hell did he want? Sirius growled as he skid to a halt.

Sending casual death threats, nothing out of the ordinary. Remus said simple. he shrugged once, and went off to face the night in company of his friends.


A/n- Well, ANOTHER down. ::Sigh:: We had a discussion in Lit. class on how writers are prone to insanity and suicide. Everyone just kind of glared at me for a while with these accusing beady eyes... It was quite disturbing. I need to end this, no? I fear I'll lose my mind. ::muse reminds her it's far to late for that:: ::Iggie sighs, and shrugs:: Well, thanks for all the support everyone! o_O

Iggie

Fic of the Day- Those You Left To Fall by Gerri: GO READ IT NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Did I make that clear enough? Well, I am SUCH a freakin' Slytherin Sympathizer and war philosopher that this fic simply made my day. Harry And Draco meet on the battlefield at the subtle age of 17, and have a few views to share. Oh, it is SO deliciously evil! No slash, all fun. It may seem a tad skip-worthy starting off, but PLEASE, if anything, just read the ending pages!

Terra- Thanks for the Grammar Alert! I simply love knowing when I'm being literally challenged. Do point them out, if you notice. :)

laure- I hope your flute solo went well! I've had my fair share of public screw ups... I empathize. Really. Well, cheers, and happy flute-ing!