A/n- Ya know, I don't feel like it right now. So just read :)






Seeing Grey - Part LXXXIV - Unsettled






Brilliant, James, simply brilliant! Remus said in awe, shredding away the rest of the decorative paper. He was about to snatch the watch, to put it on, but stopped abruptly.

I thought you would know by now-

It isn't silver. Sirius said, taking a pause from his almost inhuman inhalation of Every Flavour Beans.

Remus raised an eyebrow, wondering if his friends had gone mad. It was most certainly silver... Surly they wouldn't doubt a werewolf's ability to identify their own poison, would they?

White gold. James explained. And you see, the middle dial shows all-

Is that a moon phase? Remus interrupted, holding the watch up to his face now that he wasn't hesitant to touch it anymore. Indeed, they were right, it didn't bother his skin at all.

Yes, it's charmed to be accurate for one hundred six years. Sirius said proudly, evidently having had some thought in the purchase. You might outlive it, but not too bad, eh?

But... Where are the numbers? Remus realised. There weren't twelve notches, as expected on any self-respecting timepiece.

It goes by twenty-four. That's the innermost dial. James said, eager to explain all the features. It has the time synchronization for night and day, the dates... Oh yeah! Here, if you pull this knob and twist it this way- he came over, leaving his own gifts at the foot of the bed, grabbing the watch in demonstration. it will bring up a map of all the seasonal constellations. This also serves as a compass, too, even if you can't navigate by stars.

The coolest thing is the face dial. Sirius added, joining in on the explanation. He took the watch, which Remus really wanted back, and turned another knob. The face went blank of the tiny constellation projections, and returned to an almost normal design. About half the face was a pleasant off-white, while the minority fraction was deep blue.

It shows how long daylight and nighttime will be for each new day. Sirius said, showing. Currently, the darkened portion was at the bottom, right by a gentle floating ball of light that indicated the present time, or so Remus guessed. If they would let him have his gift back!

Can I see it? he finally asked, laughing. James and Sirius were so enthused to show off the seemingly endless flow of features that they weren't even directing their comments to Remus anymore.

With sheepish smiles, they relinquished the watch.

Well, Merry Christmas Moony. Sirius said, going back to his pile of candies.

Where's your girlfriend, anyway? James asked, deciding to leave a few f his gifts for a later surprise. He stood up, and looked out the window of their borrowed room in Romolus' newly constructed home.

She's not-

Yeah, I haven't seen her around the past two days. Sirius added. Bet she isn't too happy about having to give up the house, though.

It's only temporary. Remus said.

Hey, I offered my house as long as it was needed.

I'm not going to let a hundred werewolves run about in your home when you aren't around. Remus explained, sighing. Everyone here will just have to adjust for a little while.

Er... Found her. Sirius said idly, pointing out the window. Remus craned his neck, and found a blur of black running across the street.

She looks a little perturbed. James observed. Seconds later, the front door slammed shut, and someone thundered up the stairs.

You know, I think we'll be leaving now. he said, grabbing Sirius by the shoulder as Rhint opened the door. She looked very distraught, and Sirius didn't feel up to testing his luck.

They brushed by, and Remus was offered a full look of the girl.

He... He was, and...

She rushed to him, sending him to the ground with the force of her embrace. He slid against the back wall, Rhint clinging to his chest, her hands full of his sleep shirt. Violently she rocked against him with her sobs, her eyes shut and leaking heavily.

he tried, feeling incredibly awkward at the moment. Consoling emotionally distressed girls wasn't one of his greatest skills. In fact, he had no idea what to do at all, except to ask for the obvious.

What's wrong?

She answered by gripping tighter to his shirt, and sliding down somewhat, now resting just below his collarbone, head on his shoulder.

He's here. she choked out.

Slowly, Remus began to feel how very frail she was now, sprawled atop him, she seemed to hold no self at all. She seemed almost surreal, and broken.

he asked, his hands hanging in the air. He wasn't sure where to put them, what to do at all.

She shook her head against him, crying again.

Hesitantly, he put a hand on her forehead, to try and calm her. All it did was make her startle, and tense up even more.

Rhint, you have to tell me what's wrong. he said gently, putting his hands on her back and lacing his fingers together.

He's here, he's out there. she said quietly, her voice rather hoarse with what Remus thought was fear. She was still tense, and he knew she was fighting the urge to push away from his touch.

he persisted, wishing she would look up at him. Deftly, he tried to coax her face upwards, but she resisted.

Don't. Please don't. she mumbled quietly, her voice stifled now, buried in his shoulder.

I can't help you if I don't know what's wrong. Remus reasoned, letting out a sigh. Why was everything so complicated?

Still sobbing quietly, she remained firm, never speaking another word for a long time. He held her there until he was sure she had drifted into an unrestful sleep, and then he slipped away.

Outside, the night was settled, only faint sounds of construction from afar outplaying the songs of the crickets. Trying not to disturb any of the neighbors, Remus lightly stepped his way over to the long, cemented hall that was housing the last of the new werewolves who had nowhere else to stay.

Evening, Lupin. the doorman greeted with a tip of his dirty hat.

Any idea where my brother or Melhane would be? he asked, yawning.

Well, your brother went into town for some more supplies, though I think Mel's out in the back working nurse shift at the moment.

Thanks Dave.

He walked away, not noticing that the man seemed especially pleased that his name had been remembered.

I thought you would be asleep by now, Melhane said in a very motherly tone. She was busying herself by mixing various vials of potion, squinting one eye shut to check the measurements as she held them up to the dim light.

Was Rhint back here?

A few hours ago, yes. Corey had fallen from a broom- Lord pity whoever gave it to him if I find out- and she brought him over for a bandage.

Might sound a little strange, but... Did anything upset her?

Melhane paused, pursing her thin lips in thought. she drawled, setting down a beaker. When she was leaving, one of the newcomers had stopped to talk with her. I had to go tend to another woman over on the east side, though, so I don't know what happened then.

Who was it? Remus asked, looking around. there were countless cots lined against the walls, divided by who needed medical attention and who was just residing there for the time being. Of those awake that were within his sight, none looked familiar.

Afraid I wasn't paying much attention, honestly. I just saw her stop to talk to someone.

Nodding a farewell, Remus went off to investigate on his own. Following where Melhane had thought Rhint had been, he came upon a block of cots pushed close together near one of the few windows.

He stopped short, and felt the colour rising in his face.

he snapped, eyes flared out dangerously.

The boy was asleep now, resting calmly on the cot given to him without hesitation. Remus felt a surge of anger engulf him, filling in his chest and making each breath staggered.

he called quietly, his voice rather strained.

A short, balding man came over, eyes red with fatigue and irritation.

he asked, looking around for someone else to handle the problem.

This boy, here. Remus said, pointing.

Nick Val... Val... Yes, what about him? Mr. Lorrit questioned, unable to recall the full name.

I want him removed from the city. Immediately. Remus said, struggling to control himself. He had the desire to strangle the young man and wasn't sure he could resist much longer. He is to be taken to the Ministry first thing in the morning and handed in to the Beast Control Department. My brother will need to be alerted, as I suspect he will take him in.

Whatever for? the pudgy man wondered, raising and eyebrow.

He is not welcome here. Remus said, offering no more of an explanation. Stiffly he turned and left, his hands curled into tight balls in his pockets.

he whispered, moving quicker.




There was no replay to his frequent callings, and he was beginning to worry. How far could she have gone in the few minutes he was away? Hadn't she been asleep? Too many questions ran through his mind at one moment, and he started to panic.



A hand grabbed his shoulder, and he turned, expecting to find the missing girl. Instead Romolus stood before him, his shirt misbuttoned and his eyes drooping from being tired.

Imagine my surprise when I go to take a leak and find a bawling little girl scrunched up next to my toilet. he yawned, sounding very annoyed. Can't you keep your girlfriend from crying this late at night?

Sighing in his own state of agitation, Remus shook his head. Rom, she is not-

You're blind, then. Romolus gently exclaimed, smiling quite suddenly. He slung and arm around his brother's shoulders, and edged him on to walk with him.

Moony, she knows you care, and I know you care, so will you please see it yourself?

If she's in your bathroom crying, then-

He started off, but was pulled back again.

One, you're totally avoiding my statement. Two, give her a little time to be alone. From what I gathered she's upset as much as hell is hot.

Remus nodded, breaking free and settling into one of the sofa chairs, a rare luxury for such a home.

I need you to go into work tomorrow. he announced rather dismally.

It's Christmas, for God's sake! Why, for the sake of everything, do you want me to go in? Romolus gapped, stopping short of sitting down.

There's a man here that causes a lot of trouble for Rhint. I had thrown him out of the city once before, and the Ministry must have gotten to him, he ended up at the relocation center. If he stays in the Underground any longer, he's going to hurt someone, or kill Rhint. That's why she's upset. Remus explained, closing his eyes.

Damn, little brother, you sure do have a knack for finding trouble. Romolus said with a grim smile and shake of his head. And somehow, you always pull me in.

Yo should probably go to bed. Remus suggested. There's a lot for you to do tomorrow.

You know, Shelly was supposed to come here with our things. This really does ruin my plans.

Can't be helped.

He nodded once, and left for his bedroom. In the silence Remus could hear the girl crying, her sobs echoing through the thin walls.

I hate holidays. he muttered.



Why do you have to leave so soon?

Yeah, when're you gonna come stay with us forever?

Smiling down at the not-so-small twins, Remus shrugged lightly, feeling a tugging pain in his chest. I don't know, but I will someday. If Dad will let me, that is.

He shot a glance to Caleb, who stood a few feet behind the pair, a placid frown in place.

It's your life, who am I to tell you what to do with it? he answered softly. If you want to throw away any real opportunities, be my guest. I've given up trying, really.

Meaning after graduation, you'll inform all guards to shoot me on the spot. Remus chuckled as the twins grabbed at his hands, wanting to play before he had to go away again. He gave them each one final swing in a circle, depositing them in a mud puddle the readily enjoyed.

He waved, bidding the small group of new arrivals a knowing smile as he walked on.

Close to the newly-built well near his' home, he stopped. Grey eyes climbing slowly upwards, he looked to the top window, and watched a figure through the foggy window. Hunched up, knees drawn to chest, the silhouette showed him what he already knew.

I'm sorry I couldn't help you. he whispered to the shadow, tearing himself away. But I'm still here... Even when I'm not.





You seem unsettled, little one. What can be the matter?

I don't think you'd understand, Shebea. Remus sighed. The wolf nuzzled up next to him, resting her weight against his leg. Absently Remus began to scratch at the space between her ears, careful to avoid old wounds he knew to be there.

I may not be human, little wolf, but I understand a great deal. Is it not best to tell of troubles rather than holding them inside? Loneliness is never good for one's being.

I'm not lonely anymore. Remus said, his voice drawn out and fusing into the thousand tones with the sounds of the forest. I'm just tired.

Then why not sleep? the wolf growled, her whiskers brushing against Remus' hand, tickling his senses. She burrowed under it, and sought for him to resume his petting.

I'm not tired like that. he mumbled, letting himself fall backwards onto the damp grass. I think I'm just a little exhausted with everything right now.

Is your pack well, then? Distrust there could be the problem.

I don't have a pack', really. Well, you've seen my friends before, on the full moon.

The ones who follow you when you are wolf. Shebea barked, wagging her tail eagerly. Obviously, she enjoyed Remus much more when he walked on four legs.

They are my pack while I am here. Remus said, chuckling at how hard her tail was pounding against his leg. I have another, though.

That is unheard of. Two packs? she asked, her excitement fading. Do they not find it traitorous that you are alpha to different fellows?

In a way, I suppose they might. I am more torn by it than they are. You see, there is no taboo on alpha males leading only one pack with humans. We do, however, have a fickle emotion called jealousy.

I do not understand. she barked, her bottomless eyes wide with wonder.

When one male takes more females than is acceptable, would the females not begin to feel uneasy?

But of course. They will fight amongst each other for possession of the male. It is our birthright to do such.

That is similar to jealousy. My friends here feel that I leave them out at times, as do the people from my other pack.

Your other pack, whom I very much need to meet.

Shebea backed away, her teeth bared at the intruder. After a brief moment of confusion, however, the hair on her back settled and her tail gave an approving thump.

She is the one with forest eyes. the wolf barked.

Apprehensively, Lily knelt down, and offered her hands. It was sniffed, and accepted with a lick.

I hope I'm not interrupting anything. she said with a playful grin, tucking her skirt under her as she sat down. I thought you might be out here... Always the same place.

Remus nodded, looking out across the familiar lake waters and the ever-present reflection of the moon.

Hardly anyone comes here, the wolf calls frighten them off I suppose. he said.

Lily started, leaning forward and interrupting his line of vision. I'm worried about you, sometimes. You never let us know what you're thinking, how you're doing.

Still staring out at the water, Remus shrugged minutely.

I'm alright Lily, I just have a lot on my mind right now. he said.

Yeah, I figured that, what with you leaving before dinner. was the rather sharp reply.

Cheeks tinting red, Remus apologized hastily. I'm sorry, really. There's just a lot of problems at my other home right now, I had to be there to take care of everything.

What about you? Lily asked, stopping him short. Her eyes flashed, and she had a sort of angry flare about her. When do you ever take time to care for yourself? You're too busy trying to save all these other people and tend to everyone but you!

You wouldn't understand. Remus said, sighing deeply. Shebea shifted uneasily, and eventually resettled down in-between the two students, though she made a habit to pat her tail against Remus' leg every so often in an encouraging manner. I've had to take care of myself for a long time, Lily, I never had the family you're blessed with. Sure, Romolus was there, but there was only so much he could do. I'm dependent on myself, and myself alone.

You don't have to be that way anymore. Lily said, shaking her head. We're all here for you now, don't you see that?

S'after curfew.

The pair looked up, as well as a very displeased wolf, to find Ms. Horder walking towards them. Or rather, stumbling.

It's one in the morning, what are you doing out here? Remus asked, wondering why his Dark Arts professor was out in the wood.

'S the day fore classesssss. What else? M getting drunk. she replied unevenly, her legs threatening to give out. Stifling a laugh, Lily helped her to the ground before she toppled backwards into the lake.

Mm... Really makes a good Mai Tai. she said, holding up her glass and staring at the shining liquid.

Lily inquired, still trying not to chuckle.

Mm. Professor Forson.

Remus gapped. You mean, he's back? I thought he had been drafted!

Ms. Horder shook her head, locks of hair falling into her rosy face. Nah. They let the ol' boy back, seein' as the others quit.

Why did they quit? Lily asked, smiling when Ms. Horder nearly spilled the remains of her drink on herself with a hiccup.

Ah, they're all fightin' with -hup!- Albus over this war n all. The Min'stry is in a fit

She stopped, staring at her cup again. How do they make the little umbrellas stay up? she pondered, curling her head under the cup rather than holding it up to investigate. Remus snatched the paper favor, and urged her to continue.

Ministry, remember?

Ah, that. Yeah, they're all bein' pissy gits about this whole thing. Most of them think Albus is some kinda nutter, worryin' and tryin' to rally the forces. Damn prats'll be crying when the fight comes their way, ha!

But why is Forson back?

Ah, says they got a little edgy bout him supportn' Albus. Kicked him out'r something.

Remus and Lily glanced at each other, sporting quizzical looks. Again they tried to get more information, but ms. Horder was beyond hope. She had resorted to twirling the last sip of her drink, and laughing hysterically at her paper umbrella.

We'd better get her back to her quarters before she decides to take a late-night dip in the lake. Remus said, standing up with a long sigh.

Happy Holidays, eh? Well, I can't really complain. she said, grunting momentarily as she helped to pull the topsided professor upwards. It's never dull around you, is it Remus?

If you say so.






A/n- GAH! :: promptly screams :: I am SO fricking sorry this update took ages. Between life not giving me free time and computer access, and my nice ol' mental breakdown, it's been nearly impossible to get around to writing. I'd like to say the next update will be super-fast, but I can't guarantee anything. Many apologies!

Iggie