A/n- Yeah, there's more. I fear there is ALWAYS going to be more. o.O

Pardon errors this chapter. I wanted to get it out so I didn't trouble editing too much. Sorry.



Seeing Grey - Part LXXXIII - Ignipotens





What do you mean there's no room for them? Remus snapped, frowning.

Running a hand through his hair, Caleb's orderly gestured exasperation with his hands, his clipboard flailing. We were full to capacity before they came, sir, so we have nowhere to put them yet. Well, sir, we could build some emergency houses in about-

They aren't going to be thrown into some cheap-crack shacks. he interrupted. They lived in prison cells; they're getting real homes.

Well we don't have the time! the boy muttered. ...Sir. or the resources, I mean, the forest is going to thin out if we-

Find them. Remus said stiffly, settling the matter.

Where do we put them for now, sir? the boy grumbled, now annoyed.

I don't care... Wait. Wait wait wait. Remus rambled off, looking around suddenly.

the orderly said sarcastically, tapping his board in a rather irritating fashion.



A few moments later, James appeared, a handful of deer jerky in his hand and mouth.

'Oh calphd meh? he said thickly.

Prongs, we have a little problem.

Yeah, there isn't enough of this stuff. James said, swallowing as he held out his prized dried meat.

Could we borrow your mansion again? Remus asked, hating to impose but knowing there was no alternate solution.

Can I get some more of this stuff? he asked hopefully. He was grinning wide, hoping to strike a deal. Without regard for manners, he bit off another end of the jerky.

Er... I suppose that can be arranged. the orderly said slowly, watching in disgusted fascination as James devoured the food.

Delighted, James nodded. Sure thing, then. Mi casa, su casa, no? Or if you prefer a little Elicnoyese, ca vhushka node em ga merk ien te sahg vesh-

Just have everyone who has to be removed at the city center in two hours. Remus interrupted, rolling his eyes.

The nameless orderly left, still tapping his clipboard.



Jesus' love, Moony, how can they eat so much? James exclaimed, falling limply into one of his prized styrofoam-bean chairs in his Muggle Room'.
Habitually he flickered on his wood-case radio, and tilted his head back. His left foot flickered to the tempo of the music, and absently, not aware of it, he began to hum along to the tune.

We do eat about three times as much as you. Remus said slowly, feeling awkward. He had to refer to his friends as them' again, separating himself into a category of Dark beasts once more.

I know, but bloody hell, I'm almost out of everything! he laughed, eyes now shut. Obviously, he was exhausted.

Are you serious? Remus asked, smiling in amusement. It wasn't altogether surprising to him; he very well that the band of werewolves could empty Hogwarts in no time, with the greatest of ease. Hearing it as true, however, was still an interesting feat to comprehend. James had enough food stockpiled to feed several hundred weekends of gorging.

I completely underestimated them. he admitted, his other foot joining in the tapping game. I mean, you're almost... What is it, anorexic, compared to some of them.

How are they doing, though? Some of the injured ones...

James paused, and opened his eyes. With an unsteady hand he took his glasses off, wiped them on his striped shirt, and returned them to the bridge of his nose thoughtfully.

Another one died. he said after a pause. Remus nodded, knowing it would happen. It was inevitable with the extent of wounds he had seen. And a few more are very close. I was going to call in a private Healer, but they wont allow it at all. A young mother out there threatened to kill me and herself before she let anyone touch her son.

Was he sandy-haired, fairly young? Remus asked curiously.

Yeah, why?

Laughing to himself at the unseen justice, he shrugged. No matter... I just think the little brat deserves it. Worst damn kid...

Hey, how were the twins? I didn't catch them while I was in town. James said, rubbing his eyes. They were bloodshot, just like Remus', like everyone's.

Big, much too big. I have no idea when the hell they got so... Big.

James smiled, and began to retell some odd tale of how the twins had managed to nearly kill Sirius while playing a child's version of Quidditch. Halfway through his description of a wonderful dopplegang beating, however, the Animagus in question hollered from some distant chamber.

James yelled back.

Hands over his ears, the loud screeches undoubtedly bothering all the other werewolves, Remus yelled for him to shut up.

Sorry Moony. he said hastily, running out after the call. A few seconds later he came back, looking far less amused.

We've got a slight problem-



Chap about our age... James said, crestfallen. He had seen more than his share already.

Take me to him.



You lied, Lupin.

I said you'd get out of there. Remus said, sitting backwards on a chair James had conjured into the crowded medical room (in actuality one of his many dining halls).

You also said I'd live. the boy choked.

And you will.

Remus didn't believe himself, and he felt guilty for it. He looked worse, so much worse, almost like a corpse now. Whatever colour he had before had drained from his skin, which clung to his bones disgustingly. Maybe it was just now, in the full light, that Remus as just seeing what had been there before.

Shaking his head, Luke tried to force the beginning of a smile. Nice place to die, isn't it? I had forgotten that places like this existed... Windows, real lights, carved oak... He sighed, and shut his very bloodshot and tired eyes. Thank you. I've waited too long for this chance.

Just shut up. Remus whispered, to his surprise, his voice rippled with anger. You aren't going to die, so just-

Why do you think I called you here? Luke asked quietly, turning his head. It had been bandaged, though blotches of red still leaked through. Jesus, I'm pathetic. he said with a morbid smirk. Eighteen and dying, you know? And all I have to claim... Nothing, really, I suppose. I was locked behind those walls most of my life-

Stop it! Remus said, running a hand through his hair in irritation. Just shut up with this, please! You aren't going to-

Luke's smile faded, and his eyes seemed to glaze over even more.

Everyone whispers of you as their hero, their savior. I had assumed you the same, but I guess you really are human. he said slowly, full of disappointment.

Head between his hands, Remus took in a sharp breath of air. Why does everyone picture me as their saint? I'm too weak to even chose a place to stay. he finally asked, his hands shaking on their own will.

People have told me countless times of everything you've done. Luke answered, coughing violently at his pause. They don't seem to be exaggerating, either. I may just be a fool who had been locked away so long and needs a good story, but... Really, they look up to you. You attend Hogwarts, one of the makeshift nurses said, and your three friends, he stopped, and moved his good hand to indicate the doorway where James stood uneasily, looking around at the countless beds full of the injured. they accept you, even with the curse. Any one of us would give it all away for that chance, and yet you... You don't notice it, do you? Luke peered curiously at him, shifting his head so he could catch Remus' gaze. Don't you see everything you've done?

You don't know me. Remus began, wanting the conversation to end, for the situation to dissolve away like his nightmares at sunrise.

You're right, I don't. was the solid reply. But I know people's emotions, what they're thinking. You cannot be kept with prisoners and the miserable for so long without gaining an attune knowledge for human feelings. They look up to you, even now.

Deftly, he reached out and lifted Remus' chin up. Forcing him to look around, to be aware of the seemingly endless stream of people casting him respectful glances as they passed.

See? Don't you see it now? he asked.

Remus pulled away, and stood up to leave. Not here, not now...

You'll have to see it eventually. Luke said quietly, laying back down, closing his eyes. I guess I was useless, then. They way they looked at you without your return, it kills me. Even now, it does. What I wouldn't have given for your freedom-

I'm free of nothing. Remus snapped, his voice hoarse. I'm more of a prisoner than any of you allow yourselves to see. So don't tell me I'm the blind one, alright?

He walked off, angry with himself and with the Underground.

In his swiftness, he didn't notice that his fellow was silent, not even the sound of breath escaping him.



Staring at a fixed point in space, Remus let his mind wander. He didn't notice the landscape rushing by, the dark blurs of tree and hill. Too many thoughts were racing through his mind, each one fighting for full attention. The end result left Remus in a state of half-awareness.

He looks pretty beat. James noticed, speaking quietly. Peter was snoring soundly a row behind. In an uncharacteristic display of helpfulness, he had offered to help when he discovered his friends to be on an adventure without him. The work had worn him down quickly, however, and after his first night of tending to the injured and settling the new arrivals he had called in quits.

We'd best not bother him, I guess. Sirius said, looking through the rearview mirror above the windshield window. He was still smiling, so enthused to be operating the Knight Bus once again. He's been spent out, you know.

James nodded, frowning. His friend had undergone quite a lot in the past few days, more than he would admit to himself. Making amends with his brother had been a mental strain, as James knew deep down Remus would never truly forgive him for the unspeakable act of betrayal he had confessed. The settlement breakout had been somewhat of a cherry of stress added on top of his sundae.

So where are we headed? Remus finally asked, snapping his attention away from the window.

Lily wanted us over tonight, for dinner. James said, his cheeks glowing red in contrast to the cold pale.

Nodding, Remus turned away. He knew why he had been brought along, dragged through into someone else's affairs to be emotional support. Where was his support? Did no one see he needed help, too?

He argued with himself for some time, and reached the conclusion that the world was too busy at the moment to pay too much attention his his well-being. After all, wasn't he the saint now?



Remus, good to see you!

Lily was careful, and very clever. She knew immediately something was bothering Remus, so she had embraced him warmly the moment he set foot in her house. James, however, nearly erupted until he was given a smile.

MUM! THOSE FREAKS ARE ALL-

Petunia, I told you to STAY IN YOUR ROOM! came a blistering screech. All of the Marauders covered their ears, and Lily rolled her eyes.

Sorry, my sister is a prat. she said as she let go. In a very motherly fashion she collected everyone's cloaks and set about to shuffling them into the living room.

Mr. Evans smiled nervously, recognizing Remus. Obviously he was intimidated to have such a large and gangly looking boy (his own opinion, of course) in his daughter's company, but he tried to hide concern.

he offered, holding out a silver tray of various baked goods. Remus smiled, and shook his head.

Dad! I told you not to bring out the good plate ware- Lily began, scowling.

Oh, but dear, I figured we should have all the good silver and china out for James. he argued back, his mustache twitching nervously. Upstairs, a door slammed shut.

It's alright, Lily. Remus said quietly, taking a pastry. It was difficult to avoid touching the tray, but he managed. So, Mr. Evans, what's for dinner?

Ah, well... he mumbled, looking suspiciously at his daughter. Lily said you all enjoy steak, and I wanted to try my new grill...

He's obsessed with it. Lily giggled quietly. We've had grilled supper every night since mum gave him that ruddy thing.

Lily, my dear, you just do not appreciate the fine art of properly grilled meat. Sirius said with a delighted smile. Turning to Lily's father, he began a lengthy conversation about various recipes and fine places to dine for the best steak.

Lily said under her breath, sitting down next to James on the smaller of the two sofas. Sirius and Mr. Evans occupied the other, while Peter had taken refuge on the fancy sitting chair.

I'll be right back. he muttered, even though no one was paying an ounce of attention to him. As he turned to leave, however, Lily's mother popped into the room.

Lily Marie, you didn't tell me there were four boys coming! she snapped, sounding very displeased.

Mum, I didn't know that Remus was going to make it. Lily defended, frowning. He's busy a lot, you know... Oh come now, mum, it can't be that big of a problem!

Shooting her daughter a silencing glare, Mrs. Evans tisked to herself. I'll have to redo everything now, Lily. I hadn't prepared for this at all.

Oh, it's alright, Peter doesn't need any food. Sirius offered, though the suggestion wasn't appreciated from either crowd.

We don't even have enough room at the table, or another chair... No no, I'll have to move everything outside now! And supper! How am I ever going to fix enough for this, now?

Look, ma'am, I'll just-

Lily interrupted, sending a very identical glare to Remus. You aren't going to leave. And mum- she turned back at this, green eyes flashing. I invited him over for dinner, he doesn't get them very often like this. Please, just stop making such a fuss and set a place! We'll manage!

Running his hands through his mess of hair, Remus decided to end the argument before it got out of hand. Whistling shrilly, a useful skill he had learned from Caleb, he immediately gathered everyone's attention.

It's alright, ok? I need to be back with the others. he said, knowing the Marauders at least would be able to pass this information along. Thank you for inviting me Lily, I really appreciate the offer, but I shouldn't be here right now.

Remus, don't- Lily began, starting towards him. He warded her off with a shrugging gesture, his hands outstretched.

There was a problem, you see, and they could use my help back home. he turned to a very unsettled housewife, and smiled apologetically. I'm sorry to have started a rustle, but thank you anyway. To Mr. Evans he grinned, and bowed his head slightly. I'll be looking forward to your steaks sometime, sir, but I have to be leaving.

He grabbed his battered and patched cloak from the rack, and let himself outside. A moment later, the door slammed shut again, and a set of hands grabbed him by the shoulder.

C'mon Moony, you don't have to leave. No one insinuated that. James said, looking sad.

I don't need to be here. he answered firmly. You wanted me here to be your support, Lily wanted me here to be her support, and Sirius just wants to tag along on my

Moony, I... I didn't...

He fell silent, realising he was wrong. He had dragged Remus along to be his backing, but the way it was being presented now seemed so... Vile.

I'm going back. Remus said with a shake of his head. Slinging his cloak over his shoulders, he set off into the blistering cold, into the night.

Can we at least give you a ride? James asked, wanting to amend something.

I'll be fine. Remus said distantly, walking out into the dark street. The overhead lights flickered inconsistently, and with a scowl, Remus set them out, disappearing to his friend.



I thought you had left. Romolus said almost cheerfully, not hiding his pleasure at seeing his brother back.

Figured I should be here instead. Remus answered, forcing the stiffness from his voice. He was still bitter, though what about he couldn't quite pinpoint. Deciding to cut Romolus off from any conversation, he jumped straight to business. How long until enough houses are constructed?

Well, I'm thinking about a week or two, if everyone helps out. Romolus said thoughtfully, looking round the street. Vacant lots were begin cleared of rock and bush, and already, several wooden frames had arisen.

They work quickly. Remus noted, almost proud in a way. Looking his brother over, he found that he shared an identical expression.

You enjoy it here, don't you?

Smiling vacantly, Romolus nodded. I can make a difference, so much more than anywhere else. Around here, I have importance.

They accept you, at least, because of me and what you've done.

They shouldn't. he muttered, eyes dark suddenly. I don't deserve their trust at all, not after... The things I've thought...

We're forgiving to one who's sincere.

They both turned to find Caleb standing less than a foot behind. Neither had sensed him.

The Lupin name commands more respect than my own, I'm afraid. he said with mock hurt, bowing his head to each brother. Though I can't say that I complain. You both bring nothing but problems, but I still cannot place fault for all you've done.

Remus shrugged, finding no words that would be appropriate.

Sir, I'd be honored if you would let me stay here. Romolus said after a pensive delay. Nodding, not surprised, Caleb put a hand on his shoulder.

You're like a twin to him, did you know that? he asked, smiling. I'd swear you were the same person if I didn't know otherwise.

Romolus laughed, a genuine laugh that had been gone for far too long now. I hope it wont confuse anyone here. he exclaimed, grinning as well.

No one will confuse us. Remus informed, still slightly somber, looking more so between to two chuckling men. We're nothing alike anymore...

Yeah, you're the grumpy old man, aren't you Moony?' Romolus smirked, rolling his eyes as he ragged his brother under his arm. Stop being so serious all the time. I didn't scrap food and struggle a few years of my life to raise a depressed man of seventeen.


He broke free, frowning at the insult. I'm not depressed, I'm just sick of everyone relying on me so much. he spat.

Caleb and Romolus looked at one another for a brief second, speaking without uttering a single word. As one, it seemed, they turned back to the young leader and laughed the same laugh.

You sound way too old. Rom offered, pulling his brother in again. He forced him away from the town center, away from all the busy work and wide, prying eyes of admirers.

And hey, didn't I ban you, anyway? Caleb remembered, directing them off to the hill Remus had taken comfort in not too long ago. The trio sat down, looking out across what they all now considered to be the greatest city ever built.

If I've learned anything from my friends, Caleb, it's that rules were meant to be decimated. Remus answered with a sigh.

It was useless to try, he reasoned, letting the slightest of smiles crease his features.

A good philosophy to follow. Caleb said, laying down and closing his eyes. A very good one.

How's that? Romolus asked, doing likewise. To Remus they looked too similar, even though of different build, their images, their faces, they were blurring together in his mind. His family, they were both his family.

If we had followed rules, Caleb went on, still grinning as he drifted into a light sleep. we wouldn't be here. We'd all be dead.

I reckon we would. Remus agreed.




A/n- Alright, first things first. I'M SO SORRY that this took way too long to get up. I had another mental breakdown for a week or so, and that coupled with bad happenings and writer's block made for one SLOW update. I really do apologize for bothering everyone with my lack of speed this time. I'll try not to let it happen again!

Secondly, thanks, so very much. You've all kept with this fic for so long, you're all incredible. Glad you're enjoying it :)

And lastly, if this update delay ever happens again, don't think I've abandoned the story. I have a few problems I'm sorting out right now and I simply don't have the energy to write sometimes. I'm riding this through till the end, fear not.

Iggie



Fic of the Day: Prejudice by Ria- A very wonderful tale of Slytherin hatred and their inter-House relationships. Also has slash, and since I'm not too much of a fan of it, obviously the fic was cool enough for me to overlook that. Recommended for those needing to see the Snakes in a new light.