I'M DONE!!!

*coughs* Sorry. But, now that I *am* done with my college apps, I should hopefully have more time to write . . .

This would have been out several days ago, but then I went back and reworked the last half or so . . . and it would have been out this morning if ff.net (and/or my grandmother's computer) hadn't been messing up. *frowns deeply*

Anyway . . .

Oh, if you really want a disclaimer, go read one of the previous ones. We all know none of this belongs to me. 'Cept maybe Lucia's past.
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~*~Books, Brooms, and Secrets~*~
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Armed with nothing but his wand (unlikely to be of very great use in this case) and a great deal of determination, Jamie marched off towards the library early Saturday morning. He had forgotten and delayed for long enough. Lucia's first transformation would be on Thursday, if he had calculated correctly, and there was no way he would be ready by then.

He only hoped that he would figure out the process in time to be there for her the second time. Not that his presence was really necessary, with the Wolfsbane Potion, but . . . it would make him feel better. He had a feeling that it would make Lucia feel better too.

Once inside, he went straight to the shelves and started to browse. Madam Pince was there, but there was no way he was going to ask her if there were any nice handy books on how to become an Animagus. There was that whole secret' aspect to the business, after all.

On the way through, he picked up a few potions references, a book approaching tome size on the common (and not so common) defense charms, and a beginners' guide to Arithmancy that he figured might come in handy, now that he had switched into the class. Then he reached the Transfiguration section, the part of the library where he thought the book on Animagi--if there was such a book--would most likely be.

There were a number of books on human transfiguration and its theoretical basis, but not one more than glancingly referred to Animagi. If this was a conspiracy, it was a very well thought out one.

Then he found a small, leather-bound book, more a journal than an actual tome, and opened it to the first page.

They don't want you to become an Animagus, not without a very specific set of restrictions placed on you. Starting only a few years ago, they have tried to eliminate all references to the process. By the time you are reading this, there are most likely few, if not no, true Animagi left.

You can read this journal of mine, which means you have the potential to become one of us. To anyone else, it appears to be a treatise on whatever they believe to be the most boring subject on Earth. Only to you will it show its true colors.

Whoever you are, in whatever time period, I wish you luck in your quest to circumvent the rules and become that which is so very feared by those in charge, a creature of power and beauty.

A True Animagus.

~~May 14, 1977

Turning the book back over with shaking hands, he brushed the dust off and read the title. Animagi for Dummies, it read, in bold letters that almost seemed to laugh at the reader. Then, in smaller letters, a journal of my adventures in becoming an animagus.

By Prongs.
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To those who did not know him well--which was practically everyone, nowadays--Remus Lupin seemed to be the epitome of a morning person. He was unfailingly gentle and polite at any hour, so there were many people who entered and left his life without ever discovering one essential fact about him.

He. Despised. Mornings.

Given the choice, he would never wake up until long after the sun had entered the sky. Frankly, he was quite glad that he was no longer teaching--he missed many of the children, but getting up every morning in time to be lucid enough to teach a nine o'clock class had been purest torture. One of the greatest perks to his current job' could be summed up by placing emphasis on one simple word--Creatures of the Night'.

Sirius, on the other hand . . . he regarded the playfully bouncing dog with an expression only this side of sheer malevolence. How could anyone be so bloody cheerful at this time in the morning?

The Grim' stopped bouncing momentarily to turn back towards Remus and grin at him. Sirius had lived in the same dorm as him for seven years, and they had shared an apartment with James for about a year after that, before all three drifted away from each other. He knew quite well how much the werewolf loved mornings.

The fact that Sirius himself was a morning person only compounded the problem.

Getting to see Harry again is absolutely no reason to be bouncing around like that. Remus remonstrated, unable to keep a hint of amusement from creeping into his voice.

Sirius turned up his nose and purposefully turned away from his friend, offense seeping from every pore. Of course it is.' He seemed to be saying. Silly fool.'

Careful, Professor--Remus. A cheerful voice came from behind him. You wouldn't want people thinking you are crazy, talking to yourself like that. Harry came up and ruffled the fur on top of Sirius' head, causing the dog to look even more offended. 'Cause we both know that Snuffles here isn't intelligent enough to understand you. Don't we, Snuffles?

That was it. Sirius lunged at Harry, bowling him over and causing his books to scatter all over the floor. The two wrestled for a time, Remus an amused bystander. Finally, with a triumphant shout, Harry pinned Sirius to the floor.

Meanwhile, Remus had bent to gather the nearest of Harry's books and now stood, staring at the title with something approaching disbelief. Useful Potions for Every Occasion?

While continuing to keep Sirius firmly pinned, Harry turned his head to address Remus. I was browsing in the library. Thought it looked interesting.

Sirius' large pale dog-eyes shot towards Remus, pleading and horrified all at once, with an oh Lord, don't tell me my godson is turning into that Granger girl . . .' look. Although there might have been a tinge of Potions? Potions?! Interesting?!?!' in his eyes as well.

Remus grinned. Well, if you can manage to break away from studying for a bit, would you like to come visit me this afternoon sometime? Snuffles has been missing you.

Harry stood, brushing off his robe and gathering all his books back up. For a moment only, he seemed to frown. The expression quickly disappeared--if it had even been there in the first place--into a moderately sunny smile as the black-haired boy gave his response. That would be great, Pro--Remus. Is . . . eight or so all right? After supper?

Remus nodded his assent and Sirius barked, once, joyously. Again, Harry ruffled the fur on the large black dog's head. Well, see you then. Take care, Snuffles, Remus. He walked away.

As soon as the boy was out of sight, Sirius shot Remus an inquisitive look, whining softly.

Yes, I see it too. Remus knelt and placed his hand on Sirius' head. He needed the tactile contact just then. Harry's different . . . but he's still Harry.

It was a thought they both needed to remember, thinking about the skinny quiet young man with shoulder-length smooth hair, who came back from the library carrying an armful of books--none of which were directly related to the curriculum--on a Saturday, no less! Harry acted almost as differently from the way he had been as he looked.

But . . . he's still Harry.
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Jamie looked between the stack of books in his arms and the hall that led towards the Gryffindor common room, torn. He really wanted to get started studying--especially that book on Animagi--and the best place to do that (in his opinion) was the survival room, but . . . he needed to talk to Lucia.

Finally, a defeated sigh hovering on his lips, he began the trek back to the common room. He could drop off a few of his new books in the dorm and pick up some homework to do--wasn't there some sort of short essay due in Herbology on Monday? He'd have to check. Talk to Lucia, and then he could seek sanctuary in the Survival room.

As he entered the common room, he spotted a familiar face over by the fire. Hermione--working on homework already, of course. Good morning, 'Mione. He called, walking over. Have you seen Lucia . . . er, that is, the other Harry? I wanted to ask her something.

Harry, you're up early. Hermione noted, approval in her voice. Oh, you've been to the library already? You really are serious about improving your study habits. If only Ron would do the same . . .

Ah, don't worry too much about Ron. We all have our strengths--just because studying isn't necessarily one of his doesn't mean he's not as strong as us--if not stronger--in other areas.

Believe me, I know. Hermione laughed, deprecatingly. He's a lot better than I am at chess. Sure, I can hold my own sometimes . . .

You're doing better than I am. Jamie snorted. I have yet to win even once against him. He paused, then,

She and Parvati got up even before I did. Lavender said something about Parvati having said something about going out flying, but as she was at least three-quarters asleep for both exchanges, I'm not sure how much she processed.

Jamie shrugged. It's a lead. Thanks, 'Mione. He ascended the stairs to the boys' dorms, coming back down with a book bag filled with a somewhat smaller number of books slung over one shoulder and his trusty Firebolt in his other hand. See ya.

Hermione said softly to the now-empty common room. Harry . . . what has changed you so?
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High on mutual friendship and the chill autumn breeze in their faces, Lucia and Parvati laughed, laughs of sheer joy. The black-haired pseudo-celebrity dove toward her new friend, only to have Parvati shriek, twirling away with practiced ease. What are you trying to do, kill me?

Lucia staggered, seeming to loose control of her broom for moments. Drat! My nefarious plan, she has been discovered! Now, I must dispose of the witnesses! And she dived, once again, in Parvati's direction.

The game continued, Lucia chasing Parvati around the Quidditch Pitch until, suddenly, Parvati revealed that she was the Goddess of Sugar, Spice, Everything Nice, and All That Sappy Stuff, and had come to vanquish the Evil Whatever It Is That You Are, Harry. Then it was Lucia's turn to get chased.

I never knew that you were this good of a flyer. Lucia panted, as they floated near each other, taking a break for the moment. I bet you'd make a really good Chaser.

Parvati wrinkled her nose. Quidditch? I don't know, I'm not much for sports. Especially sports with as high an injury rate as Quidditch.

Lucia laughed. I never would have joined my Quidditch team if I hadn't been practically forced into it. Seeker's okay, though, as positions go--sure, you have to dodge the occasional stray Bludger (or Beater, or opposite team's Seeker . . .), but the game tend to focus more around the Chasers.

So you're a Seeker too? Parvati's eyes narrowed, then she asked delicately, . . . is there anything about you that's actually different from Harry? You're just too much alike--it's creepy, to tell the truth.

Lucia considered. Well . . . my home life wasn't too bad. It was just my father who was an utter bastard; my mother and brother were all right. All of Jamie's relatives are horrible--I really can't see how he bears living with them. She frowned. I've never taken Care of Magical Creatures or Divination wrinkled nose I didn't want the position as Seeker in the first place, though I've come to enjoy it to a certain extent . . .

She turned to Parvati. I'm rather surprised to see you in Survival, actually. I never would have expected you to be willing to drop Divination.

Parvati smiled slightly. I met a true Seer over the summer. Hermione was right all along--the one or two visions Trelawney has had aside, the woman really is a fraud. Anyway, the Seer I met said that she'd be willing to take me as an apprentice in three years--after I graduate from Hogwarts--if I still want to.

Lucia smiled. I won't pretend to have a very high opinion of Divination, because both of us would know I was lying, but I know you do. That's great, Parvati!

As they spoke, they continued to drift lower and lower, until both touched down. Lucia turned to her new . . . friend. How strange that seemed . . . Thank you. I really enjoyed this. It's been so long since I've flown just for fun.

The other dark-haired girl finger-combed fluffy strands of hair back from her face, and smiled. No thanks are necessary. I . . . I really enjoyed it too. Her lips curled into a wry half-smile. I rarely get the chance to just fly either, especially not with someone else. Hermione's too busy--

Lucia interrupted, smiling back. She loved her friend dearly, but there was no doubt in her mind that the other girl took the whole studying' bit too far. The scary thing is, Jamie is doing it too . . . what's next? Me actually beginning to take school seriously?! I hope not . . .

--and Lavender . . . well, I don't think Lav' would come within fifty miles of a broomstick, if given a choice. I think she's scared of heights.

She strikes me as the type of person who would try to work out a way to ride a broom sidesaddle. Lucia observed mildly. In fact, her Lavender had done just that, one time in second year when she had organized a Gryffindor Girls' Night Out Flying, with the help of Katie, Alicia, Angelina, and even (surprisingly enough) Professor McGonagall.

The event had been a great deal of fun for everyone--except Lavender and one of the fifth-years, both of whom were, indeed, acrophobic. And Ginny, of course--the youngest Weasley, though no one had realized then, was already suffering from her contact with Tom Riddle's journal.

Lavender had refused, as she put it, to crease' her robes, and had mounted the broom sidesaddle. Despite the fact that she refused to rise further than about ten feet, her strange position had actually worked quite well.

Not, however, well enough to convince Lucia to change her own mounting methods, thank you!

Parvati laughed. Oh . . . She finally spluttered. It's so mean of me to laugh . . . but I can just see her doing that! It's just so . . . so Lavender!

If I may cut in? Both girls turned to find Harry Potter walking up to them, book bag in one hand and Firebolt in the other. He seemed almost disappointed at seeing them on the ground. Probably wanted an excuse to fly around a bit.

He nodded a curt greeting in Parvati's direction before turning to the girl who could have been his twin. Lucia, if you don't mind, I want to talk to you for a moment. Alone. Her brow furrowed. It can't be too important, or he wouldn't even be asking. But what could he possibly . . .? Well, only one way to find out . . .

She nodded. All right. I'll be back in a minute, Parvati. The two walked away, far enough to where Parvati could only catch a very few random words from their conversation--not that she was eavesdropping. Of course not!

. . . Sirius . . . Jamie was saying earnestly. . . . Remus . . . Tell them . . .

Are you crazy?! Lucia's response came through clearly. Jamie gestured sharply, most likely indicating that she should lower her volume, glancing in Parvati's direction.

The dark-haired Gryffindor looked off in a different direction, pretending she had heard nothing. Inside, her mind was churning ferociously. Sirius? Surely he doesn't mean *gulp* Sirius Black? Why would Harry be associated with a mass murderer? And what's Harry (the other one's) connection to all this?

. . . goddaughter . . . really like him . . . truth . . . somehow . . . Jamie was still trying to convince Lucia as she shook her head stubbornly. If this conversation really had something to do with meeting Sirius Black, Parvati applauded the other girl's good sense. In addition to being a Death Eater and a murderer, that man was just plain scary.

Finally, Jamie sighed. He turned on his heel, walked off a few steps, then suddenly turned. . . . eight o'clock . . . Remus. Waiting only a few beats more--for confirmation that Lucia seemed reluctant to give?--he then turned away and made his way back towards the castle. This time, he didn't look back.

Parvati's eyes narrowed. Eight o'clock, presumably tonight, in Professor Lupin's rooms. I may just have to check that out. As Lucia came back, she schooled her expression back into polite normality. What was that all about?

Lucia slanted her a glance. Perhaps I'll tell you someday. In the Survival room with no one else around. It's a rather long story.

In the Survival room? So it was that big of a secret. Still . . . Lucia was new to England. She might not know . . . Harry said something about Sirius Black, didn't he. Do you know who he is? She asked urgently.

Lucia's eyes widened. So you heard that. Damn. She bit her lip. There seemed to be a conflict going on inside her head, a conflict that finally resolved itself as she raised her head. All right. I think the time to tell that long story I mentioned is now.

She muttered something, sounding like . . . make the best of a bad situation . . . Then she raised her voice back to normal levels, and fixed Parvati with a stony stare. Promise me, Parvati, that you won't say anything about . . . certain people . . . until after I tell you that story. All right?

Now it was Parvati's turn to bite her lip. But . . . if Sirius Black is here at Hogwarts, we could all be in danger . . . still, surely it won't take Harry that long to tell her story. If he's already been here for who knows how long already, I doubt he'll go on a killing spree in the next hour or so. Conscience assuaged, she nodded. I promise.

Their stomachs growled in unison, and both girls blushed. Ah . . . food first, do you think? Lucia asked hesitantly.

I think . . . that that's a capital idea. Parvati returned promptly. Let's go.
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. . . do I have reason to hope? Jamie's words from Thursday afternoon still intruded on his consciousness, two days later. Then the little half-smile, the almost approving look, when Draco had remained silent.

But why? He would have thought that Jamie would be disappointed that he had not answered immediately in the affirmative. He hadn't gotten around to answering the question, period, yet Jamie seemed almost as if he already had an answer.

He had been thinking about it nearly every spare moment since then, either trying to figure out his answer or trying to figure out why Jamie seemed like he already had one.

Frankly, after two days, his brain hurt.

Although he knew it significantly raised his chances of meeting Jamie--the Gryffindor might have been a ghost, he haunted that room so often--Draco made his way up to the Survival room. He liked the room for much the same reasons as Jamie did--the quiet; the ambient temperature that was perhaps a few degrees warmer than the Slytherin Tower', but still comfortable; and most importantly, the assurance that nothing you did or said would ever leave the room.

Yet despite how ideal the room was, it was a rare occurrence that there was anyone in there other than himself, Jamie, and Severus. Perhaps the others still saw it, not as a refuge, but just as a normal classroom (with a bit extra added) to be avoided at all costs when class wasn't going on.

The fools.

I was trying to help you, you git . . . your father would not be happy . . . Damn it. There was Jamie's voice again, bringing him back, as it always did, to the situation. At times, he felt like the Gryffindor had done a far better job at analyzing the situation and measuring the consequences, before it had even occurred to him that there might be any.

And he was supposed to be the Slytherin of the two! It was almost enough to give him an inferiority complex . . .

Now he was the one being a fool. Stop feeling inferior to Potter and start thinking like him, damn it! You're never going to figure yourself, much less the situation out, if you keep meandering like this! He closed his eyes, leaning briefly against the wall. First order of business: what does Potter want?

Carefully, he sifted through all he knew of the boy, all he had learned this past week. All of a sudden, he was struck by the memory of the look in the other boy's eyes as he had spoken of the death of Evans' brother. Fierce protectiveness of Evans, most certainly. But also something else . . . pity?

And when Draco had defended his father, the sad hopeful glint in Potter's eyes that said, as his words did, that he hoped Draco was right. For your sake, I hope you're right.

All Potter's actions, it seemed, worked to somehow benefit Draco, but not necessarily himself at all. Could it really be altruism, that abstract that any self-respecting Slytherin scoffed at and used in pursuit of his own ends, but that Gryffindors seemed to glorify?

Perhaps that was it. Potter was a Gryffindor after all. Sure, he might be somewhat more bearable and certainly more intelligent than the rest of the lot, but he was still a naïve fool at heart.

Somewhere inside, Draco knew that answer was just a bit too simplistic, especially when applied to someone who had showed himself to be as complicated as Harry Potter. Still, he let it stand. It made more sense than any of his previous conjectures, after all. And for now, it was all he was going to get.

Did Potter have reason to hope that Draco would break away from his father and join the Light Side'?

Draco had the feeling that the fact that he was unable to answer in a flat no' was proof enough that the answer was yes. Was that why Potter seemed so glad when I didn't answered? Simply because I didn't answer no'? Whether or not it was an unfounded hope . . . that he still did not know. It was a thought for another day, one that would most likely wait until he was forced into the decision.

He could only hope that moment of decision would be far in the future. He just wasn't ready yet.
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The first step in becoming an Animagus is to find out what your form will be. If you go to the authorities to learn, they will tell you you may choose whatever form you wish--so long as it is not an animal that is likely to draw undue notice in the Muggle world. No phoenixes or dragons or unicorns or any of the more sentient animals that are deemed legendary' in the Muggle world can be allowed to those who become Animagi the right' way.

By allowing choice, though, the Ministry is actually taking a very significant advantage from you--there are certain advantages that can be gained (in both forms, human and animal) only if you are paired with your own totem animal' (for lack of a better term). Choosing the animal yourself significantly reduces the chances that the animal you choose will be your totem'.

Jamie snorted. Knowing the Ministry, he was not at all surprised that they would try to restrict Animagi. Especially if going about it correctly was half as important a power boost and advantage as his father kept hinting.

For three days, you must eat as little as possible, and none of what you eat can be any sort of meat product. You must also get, at most, three hours of sleep each night. Because of this--especially if you're still in school, which I assume you are--it is best that you do this over a long weekend or break. It's best not to have to concentrate on things like homework when you're tired, hungry, and (if my friends and myself are any indication) in an extremely bad mood.

He laughed. The school had probably suffered a rash of some of the worst pranks felt yet, with three of the four Marauders that annoyed at life in general. Scary.

On the third night, you will fall into a deep and long sleep--so if you have school the next morning, it would be best to go to bed extra early. Fifteen hours is a must. While asleep, you will dream, and in that dream, your Animagus form will reveal itself to you.

When that happens, come back and write your Animagus form in. The next step will reveal itself to you. Good luck!

~~Prongs

Below were three blank lines, drawn straight across the page in black ink, but with a heavier hand than the former writing. Flipping through the remaining pages, Jamie discovered to his dismay that they were all blank.

Three days, hm? Reminded him that he had yet to have breakfast. Sounds like today's Day One. Sorry, father, but I don't think I can wait until the next long weekend. There was only one that he could think of before Christmas Break, actually--Halloween, a Friday this year, they were being given a break from classes.

Rumor mill whispered that the Headmaster was planning some sort of costume ball to take place on the aforementioned day; he wouldn't put it past the old man, as that seemed just the sort of strangeness he'd enjoy. And it was true that their Charms class had begun the year by going over various glamour-related charms.

Oh, well, the only thing he could do was wait and see, he supposed. Sooner or later the rumour would be either affirmed or denied. Until then, there was really no use worrying about it.

His stomach grumbled, and he grimaced. Although thinking about possible costumes would take his mind off his stomach . . . and the two and a half days he had left. Why should the Dursleys starve me, when I seem perfectly capable of doing so myself?

He shook off the darkly humourous thought, reaching for the next book in his stack. The potions book that had so surprised Remus and (if he had read the look right) horrified Sirius. He brightened. Just the thing to take his mind off the fact that he was willingly starving himself. He looked on the title page, and the author struck him.

Archimedes Snape? Obviously some sort of relation to their current Potions Master. A grin curled the corners of his mouth. You'd almost think some sort of potion ran in the blood of the Snape family. Curling up more comfortably against the Survival room's wall, he opened the book and began to read.
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When Draco reached the Survival room, he was not at all surprised--if a little disappointed that he would not have the room to himself--that it was already occupied. He meandered over to his friend's (?!) side, peeking over the other boy's shoulder to see what had him so engrossed. Potions, Potter? He asked, raising an eyebrow.

The black-haired boy raised an eyebrow of his own in obvious mimicry. Why do I keep getting that reaction? Is there some unwritten law that requires Professor Snape--and perhaps some few selected Slytherins--to be the only ones interested in this subject?

Perhaps because, for the last four years, you have never before evinced any interest whatsoever in the subject?

For the past four years, you and I have been embroiled in a quite intense rivalry; enough to bring you near to being put on my most-hated list along with Voldemort, the Dursleys, and Professor Snape. And look at us now.

Only near? Draco pouted. He then began looking truly offended as Jamie started to laugh. When Jamie refused to stop laughing, he finally sighed, and prodded,

Jamie's eyes unfocused. Actually, in the very beginning, I remember our potions resource being one of the books I enjoyed most. Then again, I was so bowled over by the very concept of magic that I sopped up everything. Wry grin. And then I got here.

He pulled his face into an abrupt sneer, and hissed, Ah, yes. Harry Potter. Our new--celebrity.

Draco recoiled, eyes wide. Woah. I think he remembered--and quoted--even the intonation exactly as Severus said those words four years ago. Creepy.

As if nothing out of the ordinary had occurred, Harry returned to his previous expression. From the moment our eyes met in the Great Hall the night of the Sorting, I knew he hated me. At that point, I saw absolutely no reason not to hate him back, especially once I got to Potions, and he proceeded to make a point of proving to me just exactly how ignorant I was.

I came to Hogwarts as a Muggle in all but name; Magical Drafts and Potions was one of my favorite books at first but I certainly didn't have the time to memorize the whole thing! But I was a celebrity, I was expected to know everything, to be some sort of eleven-year-old version of Dumbledore; I was the Boy-Who-Bloody-Lived, after all.

Snape didn't give me a chance to prove that I might be normal, though. He hated me because of my father and my famousness, and as far as he cared, that was all there was to it. I would never get a chance, not a fair one. So, he gestured with his left hand, a gesture of futility, I gave up. I knew that even if I did something right, he'd never acknowledge it. So why even try?

Why try now? Draco was stunned. He realized that he had never really listened to Potter's side of the story before, but instead taken his tone from his House Head and truly begun to believe that Potter was merely a slacker who used his fame to get what he wanted.

The raven-haired boy laid the potions book down and turned to face Draco fully. Several things have happened since then to slant my opinion of Professor Snape in a slightly more favorable direction. I still don't like the way he conducts his classes, but . . . well, it's not like life in general is precisely fair, either, is it?

And then . . . this summer . . . His eyes narrowed as he looked at Draco for a long, silent moment. . . . Cedric's death hit me hard. Especially for the month before my dreams of Lucia started, I sometimes wondered if I'd still be sane by the time September 1 rolled around. A lot of the time, during the day I'd study to distract myself from the memories.

He shrugged. I found that I enjoyed Potions and, without Snape glaring over my shoulder at me and calling me an incompetent fool, that I was actually moderately good at it. A half-smile. I like Potions. And I no longer have any real reason to refrain from indulging in that preference.

For a person who seemed so entirely transparent, Draco mused, it was disturbing to realize just exactly how little he knew about his one-time nemesis. Any other really weird non-Golden-Boy-ish tendencies you'd like to share now, so that I can get over my staring in abject surprise and/or horror over all at once? He finally said sardonically.

Jamie had a considering look on his face. The silence extended. Finally, he shrugged and, in an abrupt and rather disconcerting reversal from his previous mood, said cheerfully, Nope! Can't think of any. I'll let you know once I do.

All right then. Filler words, devoid of any true meaning. Mildly bored, Draco turned his attention instead to the stack of books sitting beside Jamie. He started looking through them, cataloging them out loud. Another potions book, transfiguration, charms and hexes . . . oh, what's this? He had reached the bottom of the stack.

Jamie snatched the book up from its place on the floor before Draco could even read the title, affirming his suspicion that it was indeed something . . . interesting . . . Nothing at all. Just a little something I picked up . . . it would bore you to tears, I promise.

Well if it's so boring, why are you so afraid to show it to me? Draco launched himself at the book, only to fall short, sprawling all over Jamie's lap. Luckily for both of them, no one came in in the time it took for the blond Slytherin to gather himself back together and get up out of what could have been a rather compromising position.

The black-haired Gryffindor was still too busy laughing at the mildly chagrined look on Draco's face to prevent his second attempt at borrowing' the book. The boy backed away from a now most-definitely-not-laughing-at-all-Jamie, dancing around to avoid grabs at the book in question, while trying to read the cover.

When he finally managed to read the cover, he solved Jamie's problems himself by dropping the book in complete shock. Holy shit. He whispered. Potter . . . is that . . . is that really what it looks like? A guide to becoming an Animagus . . . without going through the Ministry?

Jamie rubbed the bridge of his nose. Yesss . . . He sighed, and leaned down to scoop the book back up. Then straightened abruptly. Wait a minute. You could read the title?

Animagi For Dummies? Draco said impatiently. Rather a dumb title, I thought, but certainly not at all incomprehensible.

Jamie heaved another sigh, this one louder and evidently more heartfelt than the first. I get the feeling that I'll never get you off my back otherwise, so you might as well go ahead and read it. Here. He handed the book to his blond friend.

. . . you can read this journal of mine, which means you have the potential to become one of us . . . Draco had already immersed himself in the book, so Jamie didn't even try to hide the thoughtful frown that came to his face.

. . . I only hope I am right in trusting you.

I only hope you won't be another Wormtail . . .

He became aware that Draco had said something, looking up briefly from the book.

I asked, again, like that first night in the Great Hall, he looked rather annoyed that Jamie had been ignoring him, if there was any particular reason you wanted to become an Animagi?

No, not really. Jamie studied the ceiling. Really, the patterns up there were absolutely fascinating. Might be a useful ace to have up my sleeve when I actually get involved with the war for real. Sorry, Draco, but there's no way I'm going to trust you with the secret of Lucia's lycanthropy. Not yet. And certainly not until I ask her first.

Take good care of the book, okay? I'm going to want it back Tuesday morning at the latest--though we can continue to share it after that, I s'pose. He looked around, made a decision. He still had that Herbology essay to work on, after all. And somehow, he felt that if he stayed here, he wouldn't get all that much work done. See you later, Draco.

The blond Slytherin continued to watch the door for a time after he left. There's something else. I'm so certain I can almost taste it.

Damn it, Potter, you're a Gryffindor, for goodness' sake. When'd you become so hard to read?
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Full of a rather large and (as always) delicious meal, Lucia and Parvati made their way up to the Survival room. Opening the door, they were surprised to see Parvati asked.

Patil? Evans? The blond Slytherin mocked, rising to his feet with deceptive grace.

Lucia was forcibly reminded of the fact that her brother had been the top student in her Survival class--and no one even attempted to make any noises about favoritism on the part of Snape. He really was that good, and everyone knew it. What are you doing here? The question slipped out before she could put a check on her mouth. With a book in his hand . . . what do you think he was doing here? Idiot.

Tearing the wings off flies and torturing cute furry little baby animals. He replied urbanely. Now? Leaving.

You don't have to . . . Her words were weak. Truth be told, she would be more than happy to see his back--he reminded her too much of things she was not quite ready yet to be reminded of. Even being around Jamie during one of his oniisan-moods' was painful enough.

He smirked. A point to Gryffindor for trying. Attempt to be a bit more convincing next time. And swept out of the room.

The door shut behind him, and Lucia knew that she couldn't put this off any longer. Not now that she had decided to come clean on everything. And where's your vaunted Gryffindor courage now? She turned to Parvati, who watched her expectantly.

And she sighed. Now or never. I'm going to tell you a story, Parvati. And no matter how crazy it seems, it is the absolute truth as far as I know it.

I'll believe you. Parvati, seeming to pick up on Lucia's dead serious attitude, replied equally seriously.

Will you? I doubt I would, in your place . . . On November 1, 1981, I was informally adopted after both my parents died. The narrowing of the other girl's eyes showed that she had made the connection to the date. I am not, as Dumbledore told the school, Henrietta Evans. My full name is Henrietta Lucia Malfoy. She paused. Before my parents' death, I have been told my name was Harriet Lily Potter.

This is my story.
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At precisely 7:55 pm, Jamie knocked on the door to Remus' suite. After only a few moments of nervous shifting, he was let in by the former professor, welcoming smile lightening his careworn face. Almost before he got all the way into the room, he was swept up in a giant hug. Tentatively he returned it, smiling up into his godfather's face.

The former convict looked better--much better!--than he had the last time Jamie had seen him. His hair was still nearly as long, but it was clean, now, and straight, instead of the matted clump it had been. He had also filled out somewhat, losing that gaunt look that had lent such credence before to the claim of his being a desperate criminal. Life with Remus agrees with you, I see. Jamie grinned. You're looking good, Sirius.

Life where I know where my next meal is coming from and where I have a shower that I'm allowed to use more than once every ten years agrees with me. Sirius replied, shooting an amused/challenging/grateful look at Remus. You're looking . . . good, in a . . . different . . . sort of way.

In other words, I'm looking like I've been the next thing to starved for the past two months, and it's been nearly that long since something even remotely water-based touched my hair. Jamie raised a cynical eyebrow, then grinned. Nevertheless, a point to Gryffindor for your admirable attempt at diplomacy.

Who died and made you a professor? Sirius asked jokingly.

Oh, Fletcher, I think. Jamie responded after a moment's deep thought. I think other than Potions . . . I'd be best suited for DADA, after all. A smirk. And the job does bring with it a rather hefty bonus, of course--that way, I get to be the one to piss Snape off because, once again, someone other than him got the job.

Sirius narrowed his eyes. After I get cleared . . . d'you think the DADA position will still be open? Jamie laughed and Remus looked like he was trapped between wanting to laugh along and to groan or go beat his head against a handy nearby wall.

Gee, Sirius. Jamie opened his eyes wide. I almost think you want to provoke Professor Snape or something . . .

Five words, Harry. Remus had finally given in to his impulse to laugh along. What was your first clue?'

There was a knock at the door, and all laughter died. Only Jamie's smile remained.

In a flash, a large black dog sat on the floor where Sirius had previously stood, and Remus' face gained a worried expression.

Jamie walked over to the door and, despite furious gesturing on the part of Remus, opened it wide. If anything, his smile widened as he stepped to the side. Ah, Lucia. I was beginning to fear you hadn't come.
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Tell me everything afterwards, all right? Parvati asked. Since it probably wouldn't be a good idea for me to go in there.

Probably not. Lucia agreed, suppressing a sigh. I could use the moral support, though . . . Meet you in the common room afterwards?

I'll be up. She grinned. Give your godfather' a hug for me.

Lucia smiled back, if rather weakly. She watched Parvati walk down the hall and out of sight, before squaring her shoulders and knocking firmly on the door. Now or never. She found herself repeating her earlier thought.

Without Parvati supporting her, though, she quickly slid back down into her previous apprehension. This is so not a good idea. Lucia chanted to herself as she stepped nervously into the small room. I can't believe I talked myself into letting Jamie talk me into doing this.

I mean, yes, Sirius Black is my godfather, and I'd kind of like to get to know him like that . . . but this Sirius isn't my Sirius, and I don't see why he should feel anything at all for me. Even if it is rather sweet of Jamie to keep trying to share' everything and everyone of his with me.

He's trying to get me to feel as at home as possible . . . he probably blames himself for the fact that I'm no longer back at my home, my Hogwarts. Neglecting, of course, to remember the fact that without him, I would almost certainly be dead, a permanently insane inmate at St. Mungos, or an unwilling minion of Voldemort's by now.

A pang of remorse. Not that I was exactly grateful for the fact that he saved my life. Not then. She looked around the room, easily and quickly spotting the large black dog that was Jamie's godfather. Jamie you idiot . . . this is never going to work.

You can resume your human form now, Sirius. Jamie said pleasantly. I want to introduce you properly to your goddaughter, Harry Potter.


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Sirius was suffering from information overload. Okay, so his godson had just exposed his secret to a total stranger, fine . . . a total stranger, that is, that looked exactly like his godson. Except for the fact that she was a girl. And she had this scar practically cutting her face in half, instead of the little lightning bolt that was Harry's trademark.

And he had introduced her as Harry Potter and as his goddaughter. And the way she had looked uncomfortable (he could understand that feeling, certainly . . .) but seemed to not have even consider denying it tended to lend a certain ring of truth to the statement.

But . . . two Harry Potters? How did that work? He knew for a fact that Harry was an only child.

He was almost tempted to regain his human form simply so he could chew Harry out. Luckily for his self control, Remus seemed to be doing an admirable job for him.

Explain. Now. The werewolf commanded.

Didn't you ever wonder why we look so much alike? Even though we're supposedly mere cousins, and distant ones at that? Harry inquired.

I'll admit to a certain amount of curiosity, yes . . . Remus admitted cautiously. But . . . Harry, you're an only child. I should know--and you certainly don't have a twin.

he nodded at the girl-who-was-not-Harry, is an only child too. Well, she had a brother, for some reason the girl flinched and Harry looked downward, closing his eyes briefly, but he was her adopted brother, not an actual blood relation. His voice seemed strangely hoarse.

So how can you both be Harry Potter?

Alternate universe. Jamie's voice was cheerful, Lucia's resigned.

So anyway, Jamie continued on blithely, since Lucia didn't get a chance to get to know you, Sirius, in her home universe, since you didn't know she was Harry Potter and your goddaughter-- he took a breath.

Long story. Lucia interrupted quietly.

--and since I think the two of you will really get along well, I decided I just had to introduce you. He frowned at the black dog. Sirius, stop sulking and introduce yourself to Lucia already.

That was enough. I wasn't sulking. He insisted.

Lucia, he noted, was suppressing a giggle. You look a lot better than you did last time I saw you. She commented, then blinked. Um . . . the other you, I mean. My you. She ran down. Er . . . that didn't make sense, did it.

Did to me. He found himself jumping to reassure her. It's at least as articulate as I usually am. He grinned and, evidently, it was an infectious one, for she began to smile back.

See! I knew it! You get along great together. Jamie was all triumph. Looking at each other, the two came to an immediate consensus. They made identical faces at Jamie before returning to their conversation.

Meanwhile, Remus had a thoughtful frown on his face. Now I know why they smelled so completely identical--they are the same person. Still . . . That strange scent was back again. Strange, yet familiar . . . what was it? . . .

Familiar . . . he finally realized. Familiar, because it had been an integral part of his own scent almost since he could remember. Since that night . . . You're a werewolf. He burst out as the realization hit.

Immediate, oppressive silence fell over the room.

Jamie's face fell. Sirius blinked, then shrugged it off. Before she gathered herself, Lucia looked like she had been smacked across the head with a lead brick.

Then . . .

Oh, who cares how much sense it makes? It's a good comeback.

Well, who did you think Professor Snape was making all that extra Wolfsbane Potion for?
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KDay2, A person way to lazy to log in, sadineye, Shireen McLean, koashura--*blushes* Thanks. Is this soon enough?

pinkdevil--It's a literary device (*that's* one phrase I never expected to use with my own writing . . . I'm afraid English class has corrupted me . . .). When Lucia thinks about those things , she thinks of her brother. So by having her compare Jamie to her brother, she's beginning to see him, at some level, as Slytherin . . . even if she doesn't really realize that's what she's doing.

MistWalker--Oh, I think they'll get around to battling each other eventually. First, though, they really do need to have enough solo lessons' so that they don't impale themselves.

I wouldn't be surprised if Jamie and Draco snuck up to the Survival room at some point and did a little illicit sparring, though . . . seems rather in-character, does it not?

K--L. E. Modesitt Jr.? That weapons-choosing scene in Magic of Recluce? Actually, I think I was thinking more of a scene in a SM/Ranma fic I read once, but Modesitt was lurking around in there somewhere too. I love his books! Have you read his newest one, Legacy, yet?

Creamy Mimi--Well, let me know if you ever remember what it was that you found odd, alright? I can sympathize with scatterbrainedness . . . -_-;;

Shinigami--Yes, I rather liked Jamie's bellow myself. Poor Draco . . . *grin* Several people . . . ie. Sirius, Ron, Hermione, anyone else who knows Jamie well, and especially anyone else who knows him only as the Boy-Who-Lived? *grins even wider* But of course!

Unfortunately, Sev has a bit of a blind spot and is notoriously stubborn where our Jamie-chan is concerned. Still, there is only so much batting over the head with a large blunt object that anyone can take before they begin to suspect that something's not quite write.

Draco . . . well, to quote Xellos, Sore wa himitsu desu.

Saturn's Hikari--More Draco POV, as ordered! Draco-Lucia bonding, I'm afraid, is most likely a long way off. For one thing, she is going to have to deal with her grief eventually . . . and I can't see her being around Draco for any length of time willingly until that happens.

I've been thinking of starting a new story containing vignettes from Lucia's other life--esp. major events that differ in any significant way from the original. Although there will be periodic mentions, I'm not planning on putting very many extended explanations of any of the major differences into the actual story.

AtieJen--Yes, there will be a certain amount of romance eventually. It's going to be a very slow process, however . . . especially since I haven't quite decided how I'm going to go about pairing most of the pairings I've decided on.

To complicate matters further, I've only got one pairing that I'm absolutely sure of. The others I'm pretty sure will be paired up eventually, but I may change my mind . . . again.

Sorry, I'm not going to tell you what those pairings are. Saves me getting embarrassed when/if I change my mind again. -_-;;

SugarHigh--It's all your fault I went back and rewrote at least a third of the chapter!!

Well . . . not really. But your comment about Lucia being flat did prompt me to go back and look more closely, which made me decide that I really didn't like it all that much the way it was previously.

. . . I'm sorry you feel that way about Lucia. Yes, she is a main character, but I'm afraid I do have a nasty habit of focusing on Jamie. I've tried to flesh her out a bit more, and I'll keep trying.

And I really did appreciate the constructive criticism. Thank you.

Crydwyn--I switched him over almost entirely to Jamie because I didn't feel it was quite fair to have Lucia be forced to be called Lucia', while Jamie got to keep the name Harry'. They've both seen themselves as Harry' for about the same period of time, after all.

Not having a viable nickname myself, I can't say for sure, but I tend to think that, once people truly internalize their nicknames, it wouldn't be too surprising for them to think of themselves like that too. 'Course, it probably usually takes a lot longer than a week for them to get that comfortable with Jamie' and Lucia', but . . . oh well.

Alex--*Smirk* Yep. Although I admit I still haven't tried it yet . . . it really does make a person look rabid, doesn't it?

15 November 2002