A/n- Oh God, not again. Yes, I know...

Disclaimer- Hm, let's see. It's been 55 chapters now...

Rating- PG-13 for some action/blood/violence/language/gore/sex... I'm kidding on the last one. (Or so you'd like to think :) )

WARNING- Yes, this is a violent chapter to some extent, and evil at that. Quite easily my most evil to date. So if you're one'a those weeping-pansy-types who get all pissy when I decide to go Slytherin, you've been warned. THIS IS NOT A HAPPY CHAPTER. So, really... No flames please!



Seeing Grey - Part LV - I See the Darkest Sight




She missed breakfast again. Sirius pointed out, swallowing his omelet.

Yeah, I think she's been locking herself in her office in-between classes. James said. Every time I check the map she's in there, alone.

Good thing we have vacation. Peter added with excitement. Everyone needs some time to clam down. Maybe the Slytherin's wont be ready to kill us after a week of relaxation.

Remus shut his eyes, bowing his head slightly. No one noticed that his mouth was moving, repeating a request for whatever deity that would spare listen.

Let everything be alright. he mumbled, clenching his jaw. Something's amiss... For once, let my holiday be uneventful.

Down the table, where Alex usually sat, a small fire burst out for no immediately apparent reason. Blinking in confusion, Remus looked up to the charmed ceiling, and stared.

This is a sign, isn't it? he asked God. The clouds swirled, a flash of lightning bolting across the imitation sky. In a second more, it was gone, unnoticed by any other.

Damn it.




Remus sighed, wiping the sweat from his brow with one hand, the other gripping tight on the broom handle. He lowered slightly, and trickled his bare toes on the treetops of the forest absently.

Only another hour I reckon. he estimated, glancing at the melting sun.

He paused, hovering in the air steadily as he steadied against the wind. Reaching behind himself, he pulled a letter from his pocket Viator had delivered before he entered the train, a very disturbing one.

Lupin-

Get your ass back here now.

Caleb

He muttered something incomprehensible in irritation, and set off again.

I think it's best if I stop hoping for normal. he concluded. Apparently Fate has another plan for me.



Jesus Christ Lupin, what took so long?

He hadn't taken two steps into the sleepy streets of the small Jericho before Caleb swarmed him like an anxious child.

It takes a while to lie your way through the ports. Remus reminded, setting his beaten broom over his shoulder. What's so dastardly important that you tear me away from my vacations? I've been a nervous wreck and I was rather fancied with sleeping off the entire week.

Roughly, he was pulled not into his normal cottage, but into one closer to the city limits. His mouth fell along with his spirits.

Oh dear God... How, how long? he asked almost silently, his voice cracking through.

Three days. I had the town doctor duplicate that antidote your schoolmate made, it has absolutely no affect. I think the virus is mutating... We've lost six already.

They quarantined them. Remus realised, dropping his satchel as he collapsed to his knees. I can't believe this, they're so young... Too young. This isn't happening... Dammit!

I'm going down to the American Ministry, they're in charge of the werewolf campaign and I'll find the most answers there. Caleb interrupted, trying to keep Remus in focus. I need to find a cure for this, a counter spell. It's spreading on all the eastern continents and verging on epidemic for us. I'm not going to let our kind die that easily.

Remus bit his lip, and every trace of happiness whisked away from his face as he stared at the twins. Pale, shivering, they were crammed onto a single bed under a tiny handmade blanket. The room was littered with cots of similar cases, men and women struggling for a hopeless cause on their own.

He ran a hand through Jason's shag of hair, shaking his head regretfully.

They wont have a lot of chance to fight this. Caleb admitted aloud. Not unless we find something to cure it... They're emotionally weak, they've been waiting so long to see you they got depressed. Mental health has got to be a factor for this, every time it strikes it's someone in distress of some sort.

We're always in distress. Remus reminded with a tight face.

Well regardless of conditions for its spread, we need a cure, and soon. Like I said, I'm leaving tomorrow, so-

You can't go to there Caleb, it's worse than suicide right now!

And they'll most certainly die if I don't. he said passionately, pointing at the twins. I'd rather take a shot with my life than sit by and watch my sons die off one by one. They're not going to live if I don't take action, so right now I could care less about my own well-being. he snapped with an intent gleam in his bright eyes.

If you're gone, there's going to be no one left to lead these people. Remus pointed out, drawing his hand back slowly, painfully. Garade's too young and foolhardy, and no one else is brave enough to take lead and sacrifice so much. We all need you here, they need you here. he said, indicating the boys sleeping restlessly.

They need me to be a father, and that's what I'm doing. I don't give a damn if you like it or not Lupin, I'm going. Caleb snapped in such a tone Remus wouldn't guess even Ms. Horder would relent instantly. I needed you to stay here and watch over them while I'm out.

You might not come back. Dammit, you wont make it home. Remus briefly recalled his old daydreams, small Sights into what may become. And I'm going, I Saw it. There's no denying werewolf precognitives if two Views show it to be the same.

Fine, then come. I could use a distraction anyway.

Shutting his tired brown-grey eyes, Remus let his head nod for him.

We should go tomorrow, early as possible. We'll have a better chance of avoiding clearance checks if the security hasn't had their morning caffeine rush. Remus reasoned monotonously. Head straight for wherever you think you'll find your answers, and I'll draw the suspicion. I can outrun them easier than you if need be.

Caleb nodded in agreement, and smiled forcefully.

You're a good kid Lupin, I'm glad I pulled you out.

Sometimes I wonder...

They both shared a gaze at the invalid boys, a loving hope that they would survive another morrow. Their eyes met, but Caleb pulled away quickly, breaking the earnest connection.

Get some rest. he finally said, swallowing tightly. I have a feeling we'll need it.

Go, get out of here now while there's still a chance!

I'm not leaving without you-

Just GO! I'll take care of this, now get out. There isn't much time.

I'll stay and help, we're going back together. We owe it to those little runts to make it back together.

Get out of here Lupin, or none of us are going to live at all.



Just go! Hurry!

A broken gaze, one of sorrow. He turned on foot, and stepped through the broken doorway.

You'd better make it back Caleb. I'll never forgive you if you die.



Is Caleb around?

Blinking out of his daydream, Remus shook his head, cringing at how stiff his neck felt.

You shouldn't be here, it's contagious, we think. he said lightly. Melhane hovered near the doorway, biting her lip, suppressing something she wished to say.

He's going to leave, isn't he?

Remus sighed, patting the boys on the head before getting up. It had been hours since he'd moved from the wooden chair, and his body clearly protested to the exercise.

Just... I don't know, tell him not to go and get himself killed. she blurted out.

With Caleb, that wont be worth anything.

Then I'll tell you. she changed, wringing her hands together. Don't you dare let him get killed, either of you for that fact. The entire Underground relies on you two for security, you know, you're like our final hope.

Remus said with a hint of sarcasm. That's a great thing to keep in mind.



 Remus murmured, ducking into a utility closet he remembered from a previous job as a janitor in the building. Shit shit shit. he repeated under his breath, holding his breath as a wave of footsteps passed by the sealed door.

All personnel, please be advised that there is an attempted escape of the recent werewolf captures. Available guards should report to Floor 3 immediately. This is not a drill. Repeat...

Shit again. he cursed one last time, stepping out once he heard the pattering steps die away down a staircase. Pointing his wand at his chest, Remus muttered a spell, and changed his robes to replicate those of the security men running about frantically every few seconds.

Let me GO! Stop it!

He turned his head, and watched in disgust as about five or so chained people were dragged through the narrow hallways.

Hey, you there, help me out. one of the tall security men said. Suppressing his snicker and grin, Remus rushed over to the werewolf escorts. He was handed one of the silver chains, which he took cautiously.

Stay inconspicuous.' he reminded as he slipped his sleeve over his hands.

Want me to take them? You're higher rank, you should be out catching those goddamn beast's that are loose. he said seriously.

Think you can handle these? They're hell of a lot stronger than you'd expect. the man questioned, tugging to make the train move along. Remus jerked lightly at the cord, making everyone stumble forward.

Don't worry, I've been dealing with them across the borders for years. he said honestly, again having to restrain a smile. After a small pause, the other guard nodded to his coworkers and they set off immediately to find Caleb.

Keep your heads down and try not to say anything. Remus whispered hurriedly to his pack. It shouldn't be hard to break out of here in all the commotion.

The tallest boy at the front of the string swallowed hard, and managed to find his battered voice.

Who are you?

To silently explain, he held up his hands, sleeves covering the silver chains. In unanimous understanding, the group nodded, and walked a with a little vigor.

Why are you here? the boy asked.

To make sure none of us die. Come on, down this way. And step lively, we have a lot of ground to cover before you're all safe.





Lupin? What... What the hell are you doing? he asked, blinking in surprise at the connected band of werewolves led by his young friend.

You know, the usual. Remus said with a sarcastic shrug.

This is one of the werewolves asked curiously.

Just don't ask. Caleb interrupted, frowning suddenly. He turned back to Remus, and glared in disapproval.

This is how you plan to distract them? By pulling around a train of their prisoners?

Care to look them in the face and say, Oh sorry, we have to leave and let you be executed. Nothing personal, really, but we have a problem with our sons?' Remus asked. Caleb rolled his eyes, and cursed slightly.

Put them somewhere safe for now. I need your help getting into one of the labs...

You found the files? And... A cure? Remus asked hopefully, eyes dancing.

I think so.

Alright, I'll meet you on the second floor at a quarter after. he said, and turned his head towards his rescues. Follow me...



Are any of you wizards? he asked, closing a utility door behind him carefully. Five of the six hands raised high, the only one left down was an unconscious small girl who Remus guessed was a witch as well.

No wands, correct?

They snapped them when we were captured. one of the older men informed.

I don't have a lot of time, and I can't explain everything right now. Remus said. But I'm here to help you out, and more importantly, get you out. Now, does anyone know where the key to these chains are?

Fifth floor, Head of Department's desk drawer. He's in the third corridor. a hooded woman piped quietly. If you are skilled at all in Charms, the Valens Discerpo would release the locks.

Remus thanked God he had studied for his O.W.L.'s, and quickly released the pack from their binds. They began to rub at their burned skin, grimacing at the innumerable blisters that now tattooed their wrists and ankles.

I'll be back with my friend as soon as we find a few things. Don't leave the room, I'm going to lock it from the outside. Remus commanded gently, trying to calm himself down in his rare moment of calm. I wont be gone very long, so just hang on for a little while.

You're in great danger. an older girl said after a long pause.

Not a surprise... If it's a Vision, I'd not care to know. I've had enough of precognitives to last a lifetime.

Then you must move swiftly if this plan of yours will be a success. Those you love are at risk of Death finding them. she informed, nodding him farewell.





Get out of here now! The bloody wankers figured out how to properly shoot pistols, dammit! Caleb shouted, crouching behind a corner in time to avoid the silver projectile.

No, I hadn't noticed! Remus yelled with a roll of his eyes. I'm not going anywhere if you aren't with me.

You've got the files and the navitas root, just get your ass out of here.

Again, a bullet chipped the wall right by Caleb's head, only missing its target by a manner of millimeters.

Remus shut his eyes, heart racing, breath struggling to come. The guards didn't see him, he didn't matter... Everyone had their sights set on killing off the troublesome werewolf fending for his life.

Dammit, I don't have time for this. Remus told himself, looking around. He was only a hallway down from the tiny room where six innocents awaited freedom or capture, and only a hallway away from a friend in dire need. Either path would bring certain death for him and those he would try to save.

I can't do this... he muttered, crouching down to the ground. The sharp cry of another bullet pierced his thoughts. I can't choose... There's no way I can. I promised both they'd make it, I promised the twins we'd come back.

A bitter tear trailed down his face. Another shot.

Corey and Jason wont live if I wait. No time to get the others... No time to get caleb out of here. he said angrily, running a hand through his sweat-soaked hair.

Lupin, GO! Caleb bellowed, trying to reach for his wand. His hand strayed into the open, fumbling for his weapon that lay cast off in the hall. Outside of the safety of his barrier, one bullet reached its mark.



Get out of here. he said tightly, clutching at his arm. Go on, they're coming for you... I'll be fine. he struggled to say. His eyes, black and narrowed in rage, ordered Remus to disembark.

He had his wand, though little good it would do. Caleb would never be able to focus his magic in this state. Remus couldn't think of one spell, not one useful incantation that could turn the tables.

I can make it out of here. Take the files, get those others out, and just run! Caleb ordered with a last spurt of passion as he tried to overcome the stinging pain. I can save myself, I can't save the others. Too many lives depend on you getting out, now go!

Against his will, Remus nodded, his voice choked up on emotion.

I'll come back for you. Remus said as he sprinted his way through the chaotic hall. I swear to God Caleb, I'll be back.




Where's your friend sir? Don't tell me-

Just stay quiet and keep walking. Remus snapped in a coarse whisper. Tears stained his face, clotted his throat with fiery reminders.

Lad, just go back and get him. the eldest man said carefully, walking ahead to catch up with his leader. There's still time to-

I'd be captured, and you'd be captured. It'd do nothing good...

You're just going to leave him there? the eight year old boy asked again, continuing his habit of asking too many questions.

Do you think I want to? Remus yelled fiercely. Apologetically, and slightly frightened, the child retreated behind the pack.

Remus shut his eyes for a moment, still walking on in the direction of security. The constant crunch of leaf and stick behind him was mocking him, slowly driving him mad, step by step...

It is not our place to alter your judgment. the hooded girl said quietly, quietly sneaking up to his side. Had we not been there, you would have stayed, would you not?

Everyone alright back there? he asked over her voice, blocking out and denying the conversation altogether.

The two little ones aren't doing so well. one reported, checking the small mounts in the arms of the others. And Mr. Jesson can't make it much farther with his leg the way it is.

It's only three more miles, we'll be safe then. Remus informed. He was still clutching his wand inside his pocket, wanting to go back, knowing he couldn't.

Where are you taking us?

There's a city, my friend and I have been stealing away the refugees inside. You'll be safe there.

You're friend is still alive.

He stopped in his tracks, and again faced the girl who would not remove her hood, or her presence.

How can he be? he asked quietly, his mind and voice not syncing with the other.

He was captured, but he is still alive. You must go back for him while there is time.

I can't leave you all here, you could get caught as well. They have scouts after us, you know. Remus pointed out, biting his lip. If he could catch their scent, surely she could as well.

You risked your safety to save us, a band of outcasts you've never met before. one of the boys said. You didn't know we were here, and yet you abandon your mission to help us.

We've all been through enough as it is, in our own separate hells. You should go now young lad, we can handle it now that you've given us another chance. the elderly man, Mr. Jesson, said with an encouraging smile. Go get your friend back.

Remus shook his head defiantly, and refused.

There's a pair of kids where I'm taking you, they're like my children... If I don't get back and make this damn counter poison they're going to die. he said, tapping at the file of papers in his cloak pocket.

I will take it back. the hooded girl said, stepping forward. She lay down the little bruised girl she had been carrying for some miles, and nodded in confirmation. Tell me the way, and I will go ahead. I am lighter on my feet than you would be with the pack of us; tell me and I will make sure to get to your boys.

Remus leaned against a tree, crossing his arms in deliberation.

You can trust me, I will not let you down. I owe my life to you and your friend, I wish nothing more than to repay the debt. she said gently.

I don't need payment for fixing others' blind mistakes. Remus said at last, tightening his cloak around himself. And I do trust you. Take these files, find a man named Theodore as soon as you get inside the gates, and he can do the rest. You need to make it before nightfall though.

That I can do. And you, my friend, must get to your companion. He has very little time.

Staring into the shadowed, blank eyes, Remus took in a tight breath as he tried to decide. The chance to save Caleb, a chance that could cause the death of this pack, and himself. And the twins...

If I go, it could cost at least twenty lives. he judged. Not to mention how many others could die if the antidote didn't arrive... I could die, you could be captured again, I mean...

Your friend will die if you do not go after him.

Diverting his eyes from the cold glare, he swallowed hard.

The choice is too unbalanced, I can't risk so much. Remus whispered as the pack began to sit down for a rest.

Can you? she asked again. You can, you want to, and yet you don't. How can one man care so much for those he does not know?

This is my job. he told himself. ...My life now.

You wish to follow in his footsteps.

Turning back, he blinked, realising she was right after all.

Go on, I'll find the way.

I can't... I can't risk it.

Yes you can, and you are. she confirmed, tapping his bare arm with her icy fingers. Go now, and be swift. There will be no time if you delay any longer.

Nodding without knowing so, Remus handed over his satchel and the files, and raced in the opposite direction into the dying sun.



I'm here for backup, Norman Grue called me in. Remus said as he entered the building, trying not to pant or look like a madman. The small part of his mind that wasn't consumed in worry had been formulating a plan, some sort of logic amidst the hell. He had seen the name off of an Employee of the Month plaque somewhere, and taken the information for his use.

A tired looking secretary looked up at him skeptically, and asked for identification.

I didn't bring my cards, this was short-notice. All I heard was something about a werewolf that needed dealt with. he said coyly, keeping a straight face. The thin-lipped woman glared once more, and with a rueful sigh, granted him access to Caleb's cell. He stepped onto the indicated tile, and was teleported off in a flash.



Be careful, he's a feisty one. Already took out three of our men. the guard warned, opening the lock with a click.

You may want to leave. They tend to be rather loud... Remus added as he cracked his knuckles for affect. The man nodded and decided to take a coffee break. Slipping inside, and shutting the very thick door behind him, Remus instantly felt sick.


Caleb, hey, are you alright? he asked quietly, kneeling down to the ground.

That's a bit... Redundant. he sputtered, spitting out a mouthful of blood in-between. Remus pulled his wand form his pocket, but Caleb's shaky hand stopped him.

Anti-magic field. Wouldn't have any affect. he explained in a shattered voice. Why the hell'd you come back? It's dangerous.

I said I wasn't leaving without you, and I meant it.

The boys... Are they alright? he demanded, urgently grabbing at Remus sleeve. Did you... Are they alright?

They're fine Caleb, don't worry.

Tell em I'm sorry.

Nonsense, you can tell them yourself. Remus interrupted. Slipping his arm behind Caleb, he pulled him off the ground, leaning the broken man against blood-soiled walls.

Not like this I wont. Caleb said, smiling grimly. He fought to stay upright, and he opened his robe. Slightly off target, he pointed.

Six shots, kid. Only took one to get me down, but they kept going. he laughed. Kept asking where the rest were, said I didn't know. They just kept going...

Fighting down the feeling that he was going to loose his breakfast, Remus shook his head.

Come on Caleb, we're going to get out of here.

Promise me you'll take care of them Lupin. he said, slowly loosing the tiny glimmer of life in his eyes. Tell em I'm sorry, tell Mel too. I promised I'd be back, but... Change of plans.

Don't say anything, you're hurting yourself. Remus said as he tore a few lengths from his shirt, tying them about Caleb's arm where two of the bullets were still lodged. A hand, cold and devoid of colour, gripped his own.

Just stop kid, there's no point.

Bugger off Caleb, I'm getting you out of here. Remus said, choking back his own disbelief. We're going to go back, and then you, Jason and Corey'll all be fine. It'll be just like before. He continued to tie the strips of cloth, determined to help where he didn't truly think he could. Now that we have the antitoxin, everything will be fine. We can make a cure, just like... Just like we told Elise we would.

I'll tell er you did it. God, she always said you'd find it, that you'd be the one to save us all. Caleb reflected solemnly. Guess she was right, after all.

You aren't going to tell her anything! Remus shouted out, angry that there was no flicker of hope left in his own voice, angry that Caleb was giving in.

We can tell her when we're old, and... Caleb?

He pressed his hand against Caleb bloodied neck, searching desperately for a pulse.

he yelled again, only feeling the slightest hint of movement. He shook him by the shoulder, not eliciting a reaction of any sort.

Come on Caleb, you have to make it back. Remus ordered, face scrunching up in outrage. I promised... Get up, come on...

Tell em I'm sorry kid. he muttered breathlessly, smiling in a distant manner. His eyes remained open in a dead sense, no longer seeing any light.

Alright? Just... Make sure, you tell

I'm not telling them anything you can't say yourself! he barked out.

Stop tryin' Remus... You can't, you can't do anything about it. Let it go, kid.

His hand fell from around Remus' wrist, and his head titled over to the side limply. The grip was gone, and he repeated no last requests.

Caleb! Come on, we're going. Remus mumbled to himself, lifting his friend up around his shoulders.


Hey, wh-

He couldn't handle it. Remus said bitterly as he passed the security guard coming to check on him. I'm going to go get rid of him before the boss comes back.

Good riddance. the other man agreed as he strode by.

Remus clenched his free hand, and tried very hard to suppress his rage.

Hang in there Caleb. he whispered. We have a lot left to finish, you're not getting out that easy.



A/n- Evil, yes, I know. I just can't help myself sometimes! And now, you, the poor reader, will slowly realise this is the end of the chapter. I have once again left on an excruciating cliffhanger! Mwuhaha! Hahaha- ::coughs, chokes:: Yes, well, I'll just get the next chapter up soon a'fore I get too many death threats. Review? Please o_O ?

Iggie

Sorry folks, no Fic of the Day this time. I've been disappointed lately, and frankly nothing suited my fancy. Just check my Favourites if you need some reading material.