"Wow! Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! It's only been a few
months but it seemed like an eternity." thought Rose, a student entering
her seventh and final year at the magnificent school.
"Rose stop daydreaming and get to the carriages before it starts to rain cats and dogs!" yelled her sister Lily who was already awaiting at a group of horseless carriages.
"Coming oh wise and powerful Head Girl!" Rose called sarcastically back to her sister as she quickly ran to the carriages.
When Rose finally reached the carriages her sister was already talking animatedly to her four best friends James Potter, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and Sandy Sprout. When Rose scrambled in they all smiled and went back to their talk about quidditch. All except one.
Remus stared at Rose as she brushed her long brown hair out of her face and opened The Witch And The Warlock by Gaderlock Signer. "Wow, she looks a lot different this year. It's like she's a different person" he quietly though to himself.
"So Moony, how did your summer go?" James asked Remus.
Startled Remus hastily replied, "What? Oh sorry James. My summer was good, nothing really exciting."
Suddenly all chatter stopped as the carriage stopped out side of the Entrance Hall. In front of everyone loomed Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The grand castle with spacious grounds, huge towers, confusing corridors, and some of the best witches and wizards of the ages were in front of them. It's what they all considered to be their one true home.
"Prongs, Padfoot, Moony! I've been looking all over for you." cried a short little wizard who came stumbling over his robes as he ran to greet his friends.
"Hello Wormtail, good summer?" asked Sirius.
"Yeah, I had a really great time. My parents even took me to go and see a quidditch game."
"Rose! Rose is that really you!" cried Molly Landerson, a short red head girl who was Rose's best friend.
"Oh Molly, how was your summer? Did you and Arthur have a good time in France?" she asked raising her eyebrows knowingly.
"Oh yeah, it was a blast." She replied and both of them started giggling uncontrollably.
"Girls," said Remus rolling his eyes noticeably.
"Everyone quickly get inside it's starting to rain and hard. Now get!" shouted Professor McGonagall the transfiguration teacher.
The group quickly hurried inside where they took their normal spots at the Gryffindor Table. The tattered Sorting Hat was soon brought out and put on its normal stool and began to sing its song. When it finished everyone clapped as and the sorting began.
"Slytherin!" yelled the hat, as a small pug faced boy ran over to the Slytherin table amid their yells and cheers.
"There sure are a lot of Slytherins this year." commented Sirius, glaring as Severus Snape went to shake the boy's hand.
"Well, Padfoot what did you expect with this Voldemort guy rising to power?" asked James.
"Ah Prongs, could you please say You-Know-Who?" whined Peter pitifully.
"No Wormtail! I've told you that I will not sink that low."
"Ah. guys I've . er got to go do something. I'll er. see you later." said Remus hesitantly.
"Okay, catch you later Moony." they all said.
Remus quickly hurried out of the Great Hall to the Whomping Willow where he pressed the knot on the tree and slipped inside just as the full moon began to rise.
A screamed pierced the village of Hogsmeade as a werewolf was born. Remus thrashing wildly was biting and scratching himself uncontrollably. The pain was almost unbearable. The people of Hogsmeade thought the Shrieking Shack was alive.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
Several hours later a stag, a rat, and a large dog appeared in the room to find Remus withering on the floor.
" Moony are you all right!" exclaimed the stag.
"Prongs? Yeah, I'm fine I just need some fresh air, that's all." he replied wearily.
" Okay, Padfoot you on the left and me on the right. Wormtail you lead the way for us, of course." And with that the four creatures left the Whomping Willow quietly and headed off into the dark and forlorn Forbidden Forest. The night was young and there was a lot that they friends could accomplish with that much time.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
The next morning James, Sirius, Peter and Remus all entered the Great Hall fully awake and joking non-stop, not even mentioning what went on the night before. Soon after, Rose, Molly, Lily, and Sandy all entered discussing the latest scandal in Witch Weekly. While they were all talking and laughing, Professor McGonagall walked by handing each of them their new class schedules.
"Look we have Charms, Care for Magical Creatures, and. oh Potions with the Slytherins." announced Rose, rather unhappily.
"Excellent!!!" exclaimed James and Sirius, "We can finally test our new hex on him." James explained glaring as Severus Snape walked by. "Why are you so mean to him Potter? Can't you just leave him alone for one second?" shouted Lily.
"Of course I could Evans, but only if you go out with me," James replied.
"Fine, whatever it takes to deflate that huge head of yours." Angrily she got up and left the Great Hall.
"Way to go Prongs! You finally got through to her!" cried Sirius giving James a high- five.
"You're so mean Sirius, can't you see that my sister is upset?" demanded Rose. When they didn't reply she too, got up and left rather moodily to go find her sister.
Remus quickly got up and went after Rose, "Rose they were just kidding, they didn't really mean what they said."
"Well, their version of kidding is very cruel indeed. They've been after my sister ever since they met her! Why is it always her? Why can't it be me? She gets all the attention at home, too. I mean she's only 3 minutes older than me! She's just too perfect! Now I know how Petunia feels!" hysterically she broke down crying into Remus' arms.
"It's okay Rose, I'm paying attention to you, and you'll always be special to me," he replied comfortingly.
Rose looked at him with her deep sea green eyes and slowly whispered, "Really?"
"Always and forever," he whispered back. "Listen there's a Hogsmeade trip in two weeks, why don't you come with me?"
"Wouldn't you rather go with James and Sirius than you would me?" she sobbed.
"Those two could never ever top you."
"Thanks a lot, and yes I would love to go with you." With that the two of them walked hand in hand to Charms hardly being able to hold in their excitement.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"Lucius!" yelled a cold, murderous voice.
"Yes my Lord?" replied a scared, timid one.
"Lucius it has come to my attention that there is a certain werewolf that is attending Hogwarts. Apparently, this werewolf is very, very close to Dumbledore. Find out all you can about him to see how we may get him to come to our side. Go to the extreme means to do it."
"Why yes my Lord, I will get my informant Snape right on it, Sir." Lucius quickly bowed and hurried off to do his masters bidding.
Voldemort smiled wickedly, his arch foe would finally be destroyed and he would rule the world.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"So Potter, has your little wolf friend abandoned you or has he given up trying to get near you because your head's so big?" sneered Snape.
"Don't call him that, Snivellus! He's just helping out a friend that's all." shouted James.
"Oh, I guess that's why he's spending every minute with her and they're going to Hogsmeade together, tomorrow?"
"You're lying Snivelly! They're not gong to Hogsmeade together! One more word and I'll hex you."
"Who's not going to Hogsmeade together James?" asked a voice from behind.
James quickly spun around and there standing right in front of him was Remus and Rose. "Er. no one," he quickly muttered.
"See ya Potter! Have fun by yourself!" Snape called as he walked away.
"So. how was Arithmancy?" asked Sirius.
Rose replied hastily, "It was good, but we have a lot of homework so we'll catch up with you at dinner."
"Um. okay"
As they walked away Sirius whispered to James, "Maybe Snivelly was right. They sure are spending more and more time together."
"Let's ask him tonight," James replied.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"Goodnight Remus, I'm going to bed," yawned Rose.
"Okay, I'll see you in the morning. How about, we meet down in the Great Hall."
"Sure," she said as she walked up the stairs to the girl's dormitory. Remus didn't look back at his homework until she was totally lost from view.
"So Remus," asked James with Sirius next to him, "still up for Hogsmeade tomorrow?"
"Oh, sorry guys. I'm kind of going with Rose tomorrow. You know like on a date."
"Okay have a good time," replied Sirius rather gloomily.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
When Remus met Rose the next morning they were both extremely nervous and excited. When they entered Hogsmeade they both looked around wondering where to go next.
"Ah. Rose where would you like to go first?" Remus asked rather hesitantly.
"Um. how about we go to Zonko's and then to Honeydukes."
"Sure" replied Remus; glad she didn't want to go to the Shrieking Shack.
When they entered Zonko's all the toys being experimented with around the store soon enveloped them. All around they could see students stocking up on stink pellets and dung bombs to use on Apollyon Pringle, the caretaker. Both of them bought presents for their friend's birthdays and left trying not to run into anyone.
"Wow, it sure was crowded in there," commented Rose as a group of excited third years came running out nearly trampling them.
"Yeah, but maybe it'll be better in Honeydukes."
Unfortunately for them, Honeydukes was even worse. It was getting so crowded that the storeowner was magically enlarging it. When they entered they were pushed back to the special taste area.
"Oh, look!" exclaimed a third year Hufflepuff, "Blood Pellets. They must be for werewolves!"
Remus suddenly started glancing around nervously looking for a way out of the store. "Hey Rose, why don't we go somewhere for a nice picnic." He stammered.
"Oh, that sounds great Remus!"
The two of them walked toward the mountainside where they could have their picnic without being disturbed, or so they thought.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
Severus Snape's assignment was to figure out what mattered most to Remus and over the last two weeks he had gotten a pretty good idea. Following Remus around he had noticed that Remus was almost never out of company of Rose Evans. Now he needed to confirm it.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"Ouch James you stepped on my toe!" yelped Peter nearly throwing off the invisibility cloak.
"Shut up Wormtail, we don't want them to know that we're following them!" said Sirius.
The three friends were silently tracking Remus and Rose through the thick forest as they headed to their picnic.
"I don't understand what he sees in her," said James, "She's not half as good looking as Lily."
"Yeah why would he ditch us for some stupid girl? I mean he never even paid attention to her until this year." commented Peter.
"I don't know mates, but that's what were here to find out." whispered Sirius.
Silently they slipped behind a tree watching Remus and Rose intently.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"Wow Remus, this is wonderful! It's like you summoned the entire Hogwarts feast." exclaimed Rose.
"Well my little flower, who said I didn't?" replied Remus slyly.
"Well it's perfect in my opinion."
"And that's all that matters to me."
The two sat for a while talking and laughing together. Suddenly both of them looked at each other and a weird emotion came over them.
"Rose, I love you and I will always protect you."
"Yeah, I know-" she was stopped by a warm, long kiss. "Wow, that was unexpected. I thought that you always liked Lily," she said.
"Lily's nice and all but you're the one that matters most to me." He said drawing her again into a long kiss. Snape silently slipped away from the scene. He had an owl to send.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
James, Sirius, and Peter watched in horror as Remus kissed Rose. They had never seen Remus show an interest before in anything except studies.
"Wow, I guess he really does like her," commented James.
"Of all of us I never thought Remus would get the girl first." said Sirius with a hint of jealousy. "I mean I've got girls hanging over me but I could never go out with any of them."
"I wish Lily loved me like that," said James enviously.
"Ah guys maybe we should you know, leave now," said Peter hesitantly.
"Yeah I guess," said Sirius, "But remember don't say a word about this to anyone. Not even Lily, James."
"But it's her sister she has the right to know." James pleaded.
"If Rose wants her to know she'll tell her"
"Fine" said James gloomily. "There go my extra points."
The three quickly hurried away trying hard not to disturb Remus and Rose.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
When the two returned they acted as though nothing happened, but soon could be found in empty classrooms together. One night, Remus had a special surprise to show Rose.
"Okay Rose, here we are," said Remus as he slowly opened a door to a room filled with pillows and a box of Honeydukes chocolates. "Happy Birthday!" and with that he handed her a silver necklace with a crystal rose on it.
"Oh Remus! It's beautiful! For a while I thought you had forgotten."
"But Rose you know I could never forget you," giving her a kiss.
"I know that now," she said kissing him back.
The two spent the rest of the night talking and laughing until they fell asleep by the crackling fire.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"Oh Remus I just can't wait until the Halloween Feast tonight, can you?" asked Rose excitedly.
"Ah.Yeah!" replied Remus, but inside he was thinking, "Oh no tonight's another full moon!"
"Well I'll see you later, I've got to go to Divination." called Rose as she hurried up the stairs to the North Tower and Remus went down the stairs to Care For Magical Creatures.
As he was about halfway across the lawn, a voice stopped him cold. "So Lupin, hope you have fun tonight. I'm sure your mudblood girlfriend loves midnight strolls when a full moon is out." Sneered Snape menacingly.
"Shut-up Snape, and don't call Rose that or talk about that ever again." Remus angrily replied, lunging towards Snape.
"Moony no, don't attack!" yelled James as he came up behind holding Remus back.
"Oh well, I could have enjoyed some entertainment. Remus enjoy yourself tonight." Snape spat angrily.
"Get out of here Snivelly before I hex you!" yelled Sirius.
"Oh don't worry Black I'm going," sneered Snape as he walked away.
"Hey don't worry about him Moony, he can't do anything to hurt Rose." James stated.
"Yeah, I know. It's just that he makes me so mad sometimes."
"Hey guys we'd better get to Care for Magical Creatures before Professor Kettleburn gives us a detention." Sirius stated.
And so they headed off to Care for Magical Creatures with the nagging feeling that something bad was about to happen.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
When James, Sirius, Remus, and Peter returned to the Entrance Hall, they found a group of students gathered around a message on the wall. They heard scrams and gasps as people read the note.
"What does it say? I can't see," whined Peter pitifully.
"It says," said James, "The flower is taken, gone to the Forbidden Wood, for tonight is the night of the dark, full moon. The wolves howl and you wonder why for that is where she'll forever lie."
"Oh, my God!" screamed a distressed voice, "They've taken Rose!"
"What!" screamed Remus as he rushed to get towards the voice. There on the ground sobbing uncontrollably was Molly.
"Molly what do you mean? How do you know this?" exclaimed Remus.
"She wasn't in Divination today."she sobbed.
"What?" questioned Remus, "But I saw her head off towards the North tower."
"Moony come here." yelled James, "I think I might have realized something."
When Remus got to where James and Sirius were they quickly lead him to an empty classroom and shut the door with a sound proof spell.
"Moony, they're trying to trap you and they're trying to get to you by your love for Rose. They've taken her to the Forbidden Forest where all the werewolves are, and they know you're the only one who can rescue her." James explained.
"Who?" asked Remus.
"Why Voldemort's supporters of course!" exclaimed Sirius.
"Why me though?" asked Remus.
"Because they think that you can get them close to Dumbledore!" replied James.
"But I have to save Rose even if they do want me to betray Dumbledore. They're going to kill Rose soon if I don't hurry." Yelled Remus.
"And they'll kill you if you refuse!" announced James.
Suddenly the realization of what was happening dawned on Remus. It was either his life or Rose's life. At last he spoke quietly, "I have to go and talk to Dumbledore."
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
When Remus got to Dumbledore's office he barley reached the stone gargoyle when it opened and Dumbledore came hurrying out.
Remus called after him, "Professor Dumbledore! I need to talk to you!"
"Go ahead and wait in my office. I hope that I won't be to long." Dumbledore yelled back.
So Remus stepped onto the spiral staircase and went up to the Headmaster's office.
Remus had only been in Dumbledore's office twice before and both had not been very pleasant experiences in his life. The first time was when had first arrived at Hogwarts as a scared first year wondering how he was going to survive the year with his little wolf problem. There, Dumbledore explained the procedures he would take each full moon in order to ensure the safety of the other students.
The second time had been a far less enjoyable incident. Last year Sirius had decided to play a little trick on Snape when Snape asked where Remus had been going every night of the full moon. So Sirius never missing the opportunity to get back at Snape told him to press the knot on the Whomping Willow that night and go inside. Well of course, Snape entered and ended up seeing him transform, but lucky for Snape James saved him. Dumbledore told Remus what had happened and how he told everyone to keep quiet about it.
Remus suddenly came back to the present, and began to look around the room. When he saw a large bird he jumped in the air not noticing that another creature had been there. Fawkes the phoenix was sitting on a large stool that Remus recognized to be the one that the Sorting Hat normally sat on. He began gazing around the room looking everywhere for the Hat when he spotted it on a shelf.
"Ah, Mr. Lupin. You seem to be very confused perhaps I could help," said the hat.
"Well you see there is this girl that I really, really like you see, and she's been taken by Voldemort. Well Voldemort's made it that I'm the only one that can rescue her. The only problem is that when I get to Rose Voldemort will try to get me on his side and I'll refuse so he'll kill me. But if I don't go then he'll kill Rose and I can't live without her." He rambled.
During the story Fawkes had flown over and began to rest it's head on Remus' shoulder. The Sorting Hat then spoke, "Ah yes, I see. Well the only advice that I may give you is to follow you heart. Yep that's about it."
"But the love of my life is in mortal peril and all that you can say is follow your heart! Well my heart's torn in two thank you very much. How am I supposed to decide!" he raged. He was about to stand up when he remembered that Fawkes was still resting on his knee. Looking into the bird's deep crimson eyes he figured out what he must do. "I have to save Rose!" he yelled running out of the office.
"Jolly good show! You show him lad teach that Voldemort fellow not to mess around with true love!" cried the Hat as it watched Remus go.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"Hey Moony, wait up!"
"Yeah we want to help you!"
James and Sirius came running after Remus just as he reached the edge of the Forbidden Forest.
"Thanks mates, but I have to do this alone. I couldn't live with myself if one of you got bit." replied Remus.
"Oh come off it Moony! We've all been in there loads of times and haven't gotten bit. Plus, you may not live," exclaimed Sirius.
"Okay, but as soon as I begin to transform I need you to quickly turn into a dog and a stag."
"Sure thing, but don't ditch us, because we're Rose's friend, too you know." replied James.
So the three friends went off into the forest, wands at the ready, and having no idea of the dangers they were about to face.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
It was official! They were lost! They had been wandering around the desolate woods aimlessly for hours and still had no idea where the werewolves were, and night was coming on fast.
"Aaarrgghhh!" screamed Remus.
"Uh-oh he's changing into a werewolf! Quick Sirius." yelled James.
They watched in horror as Remus fell to the floor withering in pain. Before their very eyes they saw their best friend become a blood-thirsty werewolf. Violently thrashing Remus started scratching and growling.
"Help him up, he's in pain!" yelled Sirius as he and James got Remus on his feet.
Suddenly, Remus' look changed and he started running into the forest yelling, "They're close!"
James and Sirius looked at each other then took off after him sprinting, hoping that he hadn't gotten too far.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
When they finally caught up with Remus they found him on the edge of a clearing, eyes red and breathing heavily. Quietly he whispered to them, "You guys go back to Hogwarts. This is between just me and Voldemort. Don't argue! Just go before you're hurt."
They left silently knowing not to disturb their friend.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
When Rose finally awoke from unconsciousness, the pain throughout her body was unbearable. "Where am I?" she muttered to herself.
"So you're finally awake, are you?" asked a cold, murderous voice.
"That's good because your little friend seems to have arrived and now the fun begins."
Outside screams and yells could be heard as Voldemort's heartless laugh filled the cave.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
Remus was going wild, mercilessly attacking a pack of ravaging werewolves. The only problem this plan was that he was hopelessly outnumbered. Every time that he shook one off another came at him with renewed energy.
"Just leave me alone! I have to save Rose!" he yelled, but all they did was go after him even harder.
Finally, he had driven off all of them except one. A huge black wolf was glaring down at him. The wolf's ragged breath was obvious in the chilly winter air, and tension hung as the two predators circled each other. Then, they struck.
Rolling, circling, scratching, and biting the two fought fiercely trying to take down the other one. Fur was flying in all directions and blood stained the grass. The battle raged on and no one could tell who was going to win, until Remus flung the opposing wolf against a boulder where it was knocked unconscious for life. All that could be heard then was the howling if the wind and Remus' weary breath as he silently whispered to the night, "I'm coming Rose, and I'll save you if it's the last thing I ever do."
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
Water dripped, crystals glimmered, and the wind howled as Remus entered the dark and desolate cave. "Where's Rose, Voldemort?" he yelled.
"Well Moony, nice of you to join us we've been having tons of fun!" Out of the shadows the form of a man emerged laughing maliciously.
"Where's Rose Voldemort!"
"From afar, a small voice called out, "Remus help me please."
Remus took off at a sprint yelling, "I'm coming Rose!" He turned down billions of twisted passageways totally lost until he turned to a cavern on his left. There he found Rose huddled in a ball, hands tied up, soaking wet, and sobbing in a corner.
"Rose!"
She looked up from her crying and gasped. "Remus. is that you?" she stammered. Remus slowly nodded his head sadly. "But. you're a werewolf!" she said.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you before, Rose. I was just afraid that you wouldn't love me any more." He apologized as he sat down beside her.
"Oh Remus I'll always love you." she whispered.
As she leaned closer to him he suddenly had an over whelming urge. He needed to bite something and fast. "No not Rose!" he told himself. "I will not bite her, I will not!" and the temptation died away.
"So Remus, I see that you're not hungry." called Voldemort's voice as he emerged into the room. "Awww, isn't this cute, the werewolf and the mudblood, the world's cutest couple."
"Leave us alone you creep!" cried Rose.
"Touchy, touchy. I think that someone needs a time-out." With the flick of his wand Voldemort sent each of them to opposite corners of the cave.
"Now Remus, I have a proposition to make for you. You see, I have a little problem. I want to rule the world, but there is one person standing in my way. Dumbledore! If I could only get rid of that Dumbledore then I could rule the world!"
"Now, how to get to Dumbledore? That is where you come in Remus. Just slip a little poison in his drink and I will give you the cure to be a regular human and unlimited power. If not, say goodbye to your little friend over there.
"Remus don't do it! I'm not worth it and I'm not afraid to die! Just don't turn to evil Remus!" exclaimed Rose.
"But Rose I can't live without you!" he yelled back.
"Remus I will always be with you, no matter what happens. Just look for me in your heart."
He sat there in silence contemplating what he was going to do. On one hand, he could take Voldemort's offer and live the rest of his life forever with Rose as a murderer. Also, he could refuse and watch Rose die. A voice came into his head echoing over and over, "I'll be with you." He knew what he needed to do.
"I'm sorry Rose, but I can't kill Dumbledore. Rose, just know that I'll always love you."
"I love you too, Remus!" she yelled.
"If that's your choice," laughed Voldemort, "Crucio!" A flash of red and Rose lay withering on the floor in pain.
"Please, don't hurt her!" yelled Remus.
"Oh-no, that would be way to easy for you," sneered Voldemort nastily.
Remus lunged for him, but all he did was hit an invisible barrier.
"Please, no," he begged.
It was too late though, Rose slumped to the floor uttering her last three words, "I love you."
"NO, ROSE!!!!"
Voldemort's cold heartless laugh filled the cave.
"You! You! You killed her! You killed Rose, I'll kill you!" screamed Remus as he savagely attacked Voldemort with tooth and claw. Voldemort cursed and sent hexes flying at Remus that had no affect. Suddenly Remus was holding air as Voldemort disapparated into the night.
Quietly Remus went over to Rose and cradled her head in his arms. Sobbing, he held her all through the night. Speaking to her, he made his one vow, "No matter what Rose, I will avenge you. Voldemort will pay." As daylight broke Remus passed out from the pain, with tears streaming down his face and Rose in his arms.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
Remus awoke mid afternoon the next day tired and starving. He knew that he had to get back to Hogwarts though before nightfall because that would be when the werewolves came back.
He picked up Rose's limp form and slowly began the long walk back. Crying the entire way he wondered what he could have done that might have saved her. Why didn't he take Voldemort's offer? Why didn't he offer his life instead? Why Rose?
Eventually, he found the path that lead to Hogwarts and started walking. Eyes could be seen in the bushes and Remus knew they were watching him, but he didn't care. All that was important was getting back to the castle with Rose.
**--------------------------------------------------------------** Everyone was having a great time enjoying and laughing.
BANG!!!
The door to the Great Hall opened and there stood Remus, sobbing uncontrollably with the lifeless figure of Rose draped across his arms. With a sudden outbreak he fell to the floor shaking non stop. Then, it all when dark to him.
**--------------------------------------------------------------** "Remus. Remus," came the soft voice of Professor Dumbledore.
Remus awoke to find himself surrounded by cards, and the twinkling eyes of Dumbledore.
"What? Where am I?" asked Remus. Then everything came back to him, the message, the forest, the werewolves, Voldmeort, and.Rose. Quietly he said, "Rose is dead. There's no point in living anymore. Life means nothing."
"Now Mr. Lupin, don't say that, you have your entire life ahead of you. You have to move on from this trauma." Dumbledore informed him.
"Professor Dumbledore you don't understand. Rose is gone and it's all my fault! If I had not been bitten," he rolled up his sleeve to reveal a long scar, "this never would have happened and Rose would still be alive. It's my fault she's dead! Mine!" and once more Remus broke down bawling hysterically.
"Mr. Lupin the death of Rose Evans was not your fault. The Dark Lord hates muggle-borns and would have gotten to her eventually. It has nothing to do what-so-ever with you being a werewolf."
"Now, if you could tell me what all that happened that night I would be very pleased. I know it will be hard, but you have shown incredible courage. Please start from the beginning."
So, Remus told the entire story, only leaving out the part about James and Sirius. He told of his confusion in the forest, the battle with the werewolves, and finally Voldemort's offer and Rose's death. By the end he was so emotionally drained that he nearly collapsed.
"Thank you Remus. You have shown me incredible courage, more than most have ever heard of. Take some of this sleeping potion and get some rest."
**--------------------------------------------------------------** When Remus got up he found Lily sitting on his beside. When he looked at her, her eyes were red and puffy, and she looked as though she had been crying for days. When she saw that he was awake she asked him if he would tell her about that night. Together the two of them shared all of their greatest memories with Rose, and spent hours crying and laughing together.
Finally she said to him quietly, "Remus, I thought that you ought to know that the funeral is going to be in two days. My mum and dad would be very grateful if you came."
"I wouldn't miss it for the world. I loved Rose."
"Thanks." she replied.
**--------------------------------------------------------------** The day of the funeral was the worst day of Remus' life. Lily, James, Sirius, Molly, Poppy, and Peter were all there looking grim and depressed. During the service Remus was asked to say a few things about her death, but had to stop in the middle, because he started crying hysterically.
Finally, when it came time to say good-bye he stood by the casket for 45 minutes stroking her hair and talking to her. James finally came and told him that it was time, so Remus said his final words to her.
"I'm sorry Rose that it had to end this way. I would much rather me be where you are right now. Rose, I will never forget you, and I will always love you. Voldemort will pay what he did to you, I'll make sure of it."
And so, with tears silently rolling down his face, Remus Lupin left never to see Rose again, yet knowing that one day he would get his revenge, and wondering how one little bite could ruin all.
"Rose stop daydreaming and get to the carriages before it starts to rain cats and dogs!" yelled her sister Lily who was already awaiting at a group of horseless carriages.
"Coming oh wise and powerful Head Girl!" Rose called sarcastically back to her sister as she quickly ran to the carriages.
When Rose finally reached the carriages her sister was already talking animatedly to her four best friends James Potter, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and Sandy Sprout. When Rose scrambled in they all smiled and went back to their talk about quidditch. All except one.
Remus stared at Rose as she brushed her long brown hair out of her face and opened The Witch And The Warlock by Gaderlock Signer. "Wow, she looks a lot different this year. It's like she's a different person" he quietly though to himself.
"So Moony, how did your summer go?" James asked Remus.
Startled Remus hastily replied, "What? Oh sorry James. My summer was good, nothing really exciting."
Suddenly all chatter stopped as the carriage stopped out side of the Entrance Hall. In front of everyone loomed Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The grand castle with spacious grounds, huge towers, confusing corridors, and some of the best witches and wizards of the ages were in front of them. It's what they all considered to be their one true home.
"Prongs, Padfoot, Moony! I've been looking all over for you." cried a short little wizard who came stumbling over his robes as he ran to greet his friends.
"Hello Wormtail, good summer?" asked Sirius.
"Yeah, I had a really great time. My parents even took me to go and see a quidditch game."
"Rose! Rose is that really you!" cried Molly Landerson, a short red head girl who was Rose's best friend.
"Oh Molly, how was your summer? Did you and Arthur have a good time in France?" she asked raising her eyebrows knowingly.
"Oh yeah, it was a blast." She replied and both of them started giggling uncontrollably.
"Girls," said Remus rolling his eyes noticeably.
"Everyone quickly get inside it's starting to rain and hard. Now get!" shouted Professor McGonagall the transfiguration teacher.
The group quickly hurried inside where they took their normal spots at the Gryffindor Table. The tattered Sorting Hat was soon brought out and put on its normal stool and began to sing its song. When it finished everyone clapped as and the sorting began.
"Slytherin!" yelled the hat, as a small pug faced boy ran over to the Slytherin table amid their yells and cheers.
"There sure are a lot of Slytherins this year." commented Sirius, glaring as Severus Snape went to shake the boy's hand.
"Well, Padfoot what did you expect with this Voldemort guy rising to power?" asked James.
"Ah Prongs, could you please say You-Know-Who?" whined Peter pitifully.
"No Wormtail! I've told you that I will not sink that low."
"Ah. guys I've . er got to go do something. I'll er. see you later." said Remus hesitantly.
"Okay, catch you later Moony." they all said.
Remus quickly hurried out of the Great Hall to the Whomping Willow where he pressed the knot on the tree and slipped inside just as the full moon began to rise.
A screamed pierced the village of Hogsmeade as a werewolf was born. Remus thrashing wildly was biting and scratching himself uncontrollably. The pain was almost unbearable. The people of Hogsmeade thought the Shrieking Shack was alive.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
Several hours later a stag, a rat, and a large dog appeared in the room to find Remus withering on the floor.
" Moony are you all right!" exclaimed the stag.
"Prongs? Yeah, I'm fine I just need some fresh air, that's all." he replied wearily.
" Okay, Padfoot you on the left and me on the right. Wormtail you lead the way for us, of course." And with that the four creatures left the Whomping Willow quietly and headed off into the dark and forlorn Forbidden Forest. The night was young and there was a lot that they friends could accomplish with that much time.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
The next morning James, Sirius, Peter and Remus all entered the Great Hall fully awake and joking non-stop, not even mentioning what went on the night before. Soon after, Rose, Molly, Lily, and Sandy all entered discussing the latest scandal in Witch Weekly. While they were all talking and laughing, Professor McGonagall walked by handing each of them their new class schedules.
"Look we have Charms, Care for Magical Creatures, and. oh Potions with the Slytherins." announced Rose, rather unhappily.
"Excellent!!!" exclaimed James and Sirius, "We can finally test our new hex on him." James explained glaring as Severus Snape walked by. "Why are you so mean to him Potter? Can't you just leave him alone for one second?" shouted Lily.
"Of course I could Evans, but only if you go out with me," James replied.
"Fine, whatever it takes to deflate that huge head of yours." Angrily she got up and left the Great Hall.
"Way to go Prongs! You finally got through to her!" cried Sirius giving James a high- five.
"You're so mean Sirius, can't you see that my sister is upset?" demanded Rose. When they didn't reply she too, got up and left rather moodily to go find her sister.
Remus quickly got up and went after Rose, "Rose they were just kidding, they didn't really mean what they said."
"Well, their version of kidding is very cruel indeed. They've been after my sister ever since they met her! Why is it always her? Why can't it be me? She gets all the attention at home, too. I mean she's only 3 minutes older than me! She's just too perfect! Now I know how Petunia feels!" hysterically she broke down crying into Remus' arms.
"It's okay Rose, I'm paying attention to you, and you'll always be special to me," he replied comfortingly.
Rose looked at him with her deep sea green eyes and slowly whispered, "Really?"
"Always and forever," he whispered back. "Listen there's a Hogsmeade trip in two weeks, why don't you come with me?"
"Wouldn't you rather go with James and Sirius than you would me?" she sobbed.
"Those two could never ever top you."
"Thanks a lot, and yes I would love to go with you." With that the two of them walked hand in hand to Charms hardly being able to hold in their excitement.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"Lucius!" yelled a cold, murderous voice.
"Yes my Lord?" replied a scared, timid one.
"Lucius it has come to my attention that there is a certain werewolf that is attending Hogwarts. Apparently, this werewolf is very, very close to Dumbledore. Find out all you can about him to see how we may get him to come to our side. Go to the extreme means to do it."
"Why yes my Lord, I will get my informant Snape right on it, Sir." Lucius quickly bowed and hurried off to do his masters bidding.
Voldemort smiled wickedly, his arch foe would finally be destroyed and he would rule the world.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"So Potter, has your little wolf friend abandoned you or has he given up trying to get near you because your head's so big?" sneered Snape.
"Don't call him that, Snivellus! He's just helping out a friend that's all." shouted James.
"Oh, I guess that's why he's spending every minute with her and they're going to Hogsmeade together, tomorrow?"
"You're lying Snivelly! They're not gong to Hogsmeade together! One more word and I'll hex you."
"Who's not going to Hogsmeade together James?" asked a voice from behind.
James quickly spun around and there standing right in front of him was Remus and Rose. "Er. no one," he quickly muttered.
"See ya Potter! Have fun by yourself!" Snape called as he walked away.
"So. how was Arithmancy?" asked Sirius.
Rose replied hastily, "It was good, but we have a lot of homework so we'll catch up with you at dinner."
"Um. okay"
As they walked away Sirius whispered to James, "Maybe Snivelly was right. They sure are spending more and more time together."
"Let's ask him tonight," James replied.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"Goodnight Remus, I'm going to bed," yawned Rose.
"Okay, I'll see you in the morning. How about, we meet down in the Great Hall."
"Sure," she said as she walked up the stairs to the girl's dormitory. Remus didn't look back at his homework until she was totally lost from view.
"So Remus," asked James with Sirius next to him, "still up for Hogsmeade tomorrow?"
"Oh, sorry guys. I'm kind of going with Rose tomorrow. You know like on a date."
"Okay have a good time," replied Sirius rather gloomily.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
When Remus met Rose the next morning they were both extremely nervous and excited. When they entered Hogsmeade they both looked around wondering where to go next.
"Ah. Rose where would you like to go first?" Remus asked rather hesitantly.
"Um. how about we go to Zonko's and then to Honeydukes."
"Sure" replied Remus; glad she didn't want to go to the Shrieking Shack.
When they entered Zonko's all the toys being experimented with around the store soon enveloped them. All around they could see students stocking up on stink pellets and dung bombs to use on Apollyon Pringle, the caretaker. Both of them bought presents for their friend's birthdays and left trying not to run into anyone.
"Wow, it sure was crowded in there," commented Rose as a group of excited third years came running out nearly trampling them.
"Yeah, but maybe it'll be better in Honeydukes."
Unfortunately for them, Honeydukes was even worse. It was getting so crowded that the storeowner was magically enlarging it. When they entered they were pushed back to the special taste area.
"Oh, look!" exclaimed a third year Hufflepuff, "Blood Pellets. They must be for werewolves!"
Remus suddenly started glancing around nervously looking for a way out of the store. "Hey Rose, why don't we go somewhere for a nice picnic." He stammered.
"Oh, that sounds great Remus!"
The two of them walked toward the mountainside where they could have their picnic without being disturbed, or so they thought.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
Severus Snape's assignment was to figure out what mattered most to Remus and over the last two weeks he had gotten a pretty good idea. Following Remus around he had noticed that Remus was almost never out of company of Rose Evans. Now he needed to confirm it.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"Ouch James you stepped on my toe!" yelped Peter nearly throwing off the invisibility cloak.
"Shut up Wormtail, we don't want them to know that we're following them!" said Sirius.
The three friends were silently tracking Remus and Rose through the thick forest as they headed to their picnic.
"I don't understand what he sees in her," said James, "She's not half as good looking as Lily."
"Yeah why would he ditch us for some stupid girl? I mean he never even paid attention to her until this year." commented Peter.
"I don't know mates, but that's what were here to find out." whispered Sirius.
Silently they slipped behind a tree watching Remus and Rose intently.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"Wow Remus, this is wonderful! It's like you summoned the entire Hogwarts feast." exclaimed Rose.
"Well my little flower, who said I didn't?" replied Remus slyly.
"Well it's perfect in my opinion."
"And that's all that matters to me."
The two sat for a while talking and laughing together. Suddenly both of them looked at each other and a weird emotion came over them.
"Rose, I love you and I will always protect you."
"Yeah, I know-" she was stopped by a warm, long kiss. "Wow, that was unexpected. I thought that you always liked Lily," she said.
"Lily's nice and all but you're the one that matters most to me." He said drawing her again into a long kiss. Snape silently slipped away from the scene. He had an owl to send.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
James, Sirius, and Peter watched in horror as Remus kissed Rose. They had never seen Remus show an interest before in anything except studies.
"Wow, I guess he really does like her," commented James.
"Of all of us I never thought Remus would get the girl first." said Sirius with a hint of jealousy. "I mean I've got girls hanging over me but I could never go out with any of them."
"I wish Lily loved me like that," said James enviously.
"Ah guys maybe we should you know, leave now," said Peter hesitantly.
"Yeah I guess," said Sirius, "But remember don't say a word about this to anyone. Not even Lily, James."
"But it's her sister she has the right to know." James pleaded.
"If Rose wants her to know she'll tell her"
"Fine" said James gloomily. "There go my extra points."
The three quickly hurried away trying hard not to disturb Remus and Rose.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
When the two returned they acted as though nothing happened, but soon could be found in empty classrooms together. One night, Remus had a special surprise to show Rose.
"Okay Rose, here we are," said Remus as he slowly opened a door to a room filled with pillows and a box of Honeydukes chocolates. "Happy Birthday!" and with that he handed her a silver necklace with a crystal rose on it.
"Oh Remus! It's beautiful! For a while I thought you had forgotten."
"But Rose you know I could never forget you," giving her a kiss.
"I know that now," she said kissing him back.
The two spent the rest of the night talking and laughing until they fell asleep by the crackling fire.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"Oh Remus I just can't wait until the Halloween Feast tonight, can you?" asked Rose excitedly.
"Ah.Yeah!" replied Remus, but inside he was thinking, "Oh no tonight's another full moon!"
"Well I'll see you later, I've got to go to Divination." called Rose as she hurried up the stairs to the North Tower and Remus went down the stairs to Care For Magical Creatures.
As he was about halfway across the lawn, a voice stopped him cold. "So Lupin, hope you have fun tonight. I'm sure your mudblood girlfriend loves midnight strolls when a full moon is out." Sneered Snape menacingly.
"Shut-up Snape, and don't call Rose that or talk about that ever again." Remus angrily replied, lunging towards Snape.
"Moony no, don't attack!" yelled James as he came up behind holding Remus back.
"Oh well, I could have enjoyed some entertainment. Remus enjoy yourself tonight." Snape spat angrily.
"Get out of here Snivelly before I hex you!" yelled Sirius.
"Oh don't worry Black I'm going," sneered Snape as he walked away.
"Hey don't worry about him Moony, he can't do anything to hurt Rose." James stated.
"Yeah, I know. It's just that he makes me so mad sometimes."
"Hey guys we'd better get to Care for Magical Creatures before Professor Kettleburn gives us a detention." Sirius stated.
And so they headed off to Care for Magical Creatures with the nagging feeling that something bad was about to happen.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
When James, Sirius, Remus, and Peter returned to the Entrance Hall, they found a group of students gathered around a message on the wall. They heard scrams and gasps as people read the note.
"What does it say? I can't see," whined Peter pitifully.
"It says," said James, "The flower is taken, gone to the Forbidden Wood, for tonight is the night of the dark, full moon. The wolves howl and you wonder why for that is where she'll forever lie."
"Oh, my God!" screamed a distressed voice, "They've taken Rose!"
"What!" screamed Remus as he rushed to get towards the voice. There on the ground sobbing uncontrollably was Molly.
"Molly what do you mean? How do you know this?" exclaimed Remus.
"She wasn't in Divination today."she sobbed.
"What?" questioned Remus, "But I saw her head off towards the North tower."
"Moony come here." yelled James, "I think I might have realized something."
When Remus got to where James and Sirius were they quickly lead him to an empty classroom and shut the door with a sound proof spell.
"Moony, they're trying to trap you and they're trying to get to you by your love for Rose. They've taken her to the Forbidden Forest where all the werewolves are, and they know you're the only one who can rescue her." James explained.
"Who?" asked Remus.
"Why Voldemort's supporters of course!" exclaimed Sirius.
"Why me though?" asked Remus.
"Because they think that you can get them close to Dumbledore!" replied James.
"But I have to save Rose even if they do want me to betray Dumbledore. They're going to kill Rose soon if I don't hurry." Yelled Remus.
"And they'll kill you if you refuse!" announced James.
Suddenly the realization of what was happening dawned on Remus. It was either his life or Rose's life. At last he spoke quietly, "I have to go and talk to Dumbledore."
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
When Remus got to Dumbledore's office he barley reached the stone gargoyle when it opened and Dumbledore came hurrying out.
Remus called after him, "Professor Dumbledore! I need to talk to you!"
"Go ahead and wait in my office. I hope that I won't be to long." Dumbledore yelled back.
So Remus stepped onto the spiral staircase and went up to the Headmaster's office.
Remus had only been in Dumbledore's office twice before and both had not been very pleasant experiences in his life. The first time was when had first arrived at Hogwarts as a scared first year wondering how he was going to survive the year with his little wolf problem. There, Dumbledore explained the procedures he would take each full moon in order to ensure the safety of the other students.
The second time had been a far less enjoyable incident. Last year Sirius had decided to play a little trick on Snape when Snape asked where Remus had been going every night of the full moon. So Sirius never missing the opportunity to get back at Snape told him to press the knot on the Whomping Willow that night and go inside. Well of course, Snape entered and ended up seeing him transform, but lucky for Snape James saved him. Dumbledore told Remus what had happened and how he told everyone to keep quiet about it.
Remus suddenly came back to the present, and began to look around the room. When he saw a large bird he jumped in the air not noticing that another creature had been there. Fawkes the phoenix was sitting on a large stool that Remus recognized to be the one that the Sorting Hat normally sat on. He began gazing around the room looking everywhere for the Hat when he spotted it on a shelf.
"Ah, Mr. Lupin. You seem to be very confused perhaps I could help," said the hat.
"Well you see there is this girl that I really, really like you see, and she's been taken by Voldemort. Well Voldemort's made it that I'm the only one that can rescue her. The only problem is that when I get to Rose Voldemort will try to get me on his side and I'll refuse so he'll kill me. But if I don't go then he'll kill Rose and I can't live without her." He rambled.
During the story Fawkes had flown over and began to rest it's head on Remus' shoulder. The Sorting Hat then spoke, "Ah yes, I see. Well the only advice that I may give you is to follow you heart. Yep that's about it."
"But the love of my life is in mortal peril and all that you can say is follow your heart! Well my heart's torn in two thank you very much. How am I supposed to decide!" he raged. He was about to stand up when he remembered that Fawkes was still resting on his knee. Looking into the bird's deep crimson eyes he figured out what he must do. "I have to save Rose!" he yelled running out of the office.
"Jolly good show! You show him lad teach that Voldemort fellow not to mess around with true love!" cried the Hat as it watched Remus go.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
"Hey Moony, wait up!"
"Yeah we want to help you!"
James and Sirius came running after Remus just as he reached the edge of the Forbidden Forest.
"Thanks mates, but I have to do this alone. I couldn't live with myself if one of you got bit." replied Remus.
"Oh come off it Moony! We've all been in there loads of times and haven't gotten bit. Plus, you may not live," exclaimed Sirius.
"Okay, but as soon as I begin to transform I need you to quickly turn into a dog and a stag."
"Sure thing, but don't ditch us, because we're Rose's friend, too you know." replied James.
So the three friends went off into the forest, wands at the ready, and having no idea of the dangers they were about to face.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
It was official! They were lost! They had been wandering around the desolate woods aimlessly for hours and still had no idea where the werewolves were, and night was coming on fast.
"Aaarrgghhh!" screamed Remus.
"Uh-oh he's changing into a werewolf! Quick Sirius." yelled James.
They watched in horror as Remus fell to the floor withering in pain. Before their very eyes they saw their best friend become a blood-thirsty werewolf. Violently thrashing Remus started scratching and growling.
"Help him up, he's in pain!" yelled Sirius as he and James got Remus on his feet.
Suddenly, Remus' look changed and he started running into the forest yelling, "They're close!"
James and Sirius looked at each other then took off after him sprinting, hoping that he hadn't gotten too far.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
When they finally caught up with Remus they found him on the edge of a clearing, eyes red and breathing heavily. Quietly he whispered to them, "You guys go back to Hogwarts. This is between just me and Voldemort. Don't argue! Just go before you're hurt."
They left silently knowing not to disturb their friend.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
When Rose finally awoke from unconsciousness, the pain throughout her body was unbearable. "Where am I?" she muttered to herself.
"So you're finally awake, are you?" asked a cold, murderous voice.
"That's good because your little friend seems to have arrived and now the fun begins."
Outside screams and yells could be heard as Voldemort's heartless laugh filled the cave.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
Remus was going wild, mercilessly attacking a pack of ravaging werewolves. The only problem this plan was that he was hopelessly outnumbered. Every time that he shook one off another came at him with renewed energy.
"Just leave me alone! I have to save Rose!" he yelled, but all they did was go after him even harder.
Finally, he had driven off all of them except one. A huge black wolf was glaring down at him. The wolf's ragged breath was obvious in the chilly winter air, and tension hung as the two predators circled each other. Then, they struck.
Rolling, circling, scratching, and biting the two fought fiercely trying to take down the other one. Fur was flying in all directions and blood stained the grass. The battle raged on and no one could tell who was going to win, until Remus flung the opposing wolf against a boulder where it was knocked unconscious for life. All that could be heard then was the howling if the wind and Remus' weary breath as he silently whispered to the night, "I'm coming Rose, and I'll save you if it's the last thing I ever do."
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
Water dripped, crystals glimmered, and the wind howled as Remus entered the dark and desolate cave. "Where's Rose, Voldemort?" he yelled.
"Well Moony, nice of you to join us we've been having tons of fun!" Out of the shadows the form of a man emerged laughing maliciously.
"Where's Rose Voldemort!"
"From afar, a small voice called out, "Remus help me please."
Remus took off at a sprint yelling, "I'm coming Rose!" He turned down billions of twisted passageways totally lost until he turned to a cavern on his left. There he found Rose huddled in a ball, hands tied up, soaking wet, and sobbing in a corner.
"Rose!"
She looked up from her crying and gasped. "Remus. is that you?" she stammered. Remus slowly nodded his head sadly. "But. you're a werewolf!" she said.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you before, Rose. I was just afraid that you wouldn't love me any more." He apologized as he sat down beside her.
"Oh Remus I'll always love you." she whispered.
As she leaned closer to him he suddenly had an over whelming urge. He needed to bite something and fast. "No not Rose!" he told himself. "I will not bite her, I will not!" and the temptation died away.
"So Remus, I see that you're not hungry." called Voldemort's voice as he emerged into the room. "Awww, isn't this cute, the werewolf and the mudblood, the world's cutest couple."
"Leave us alone you creep!" cried Rose.
"Touchy, touchy. I think that someone needs a time-out." With the flick of his wand Voldemort sent each of them to opposite corners of the cave.
"Now Remus, I have a proposition to make for you. You see, I have a little problem. I want to rule the world, but there is one person standing in my way. Dumbledore! If I could only get rid of that Dumbledore then I could rule the world!"
"Now, how to get to Dumbledore? That is where you come in Remus. Just slip a little poison in his drink and I will give you the cure to be a regular human and unlimited power. If not, say goodbye to your little friend over there.
"Remus don't do it! I'm not worth it and I'm not afraid to die! Just don't turn to evil Remus!" exclaimed Rose.
"But Rose I can't live without you!" he yelled back.
"Remus I will always be with you, no matter what happens. Just look for me in your heart."
He sat there in silence contemplating what he was going to do. On one hand, he could take Voldemort's offer and live the rest of his life forever with Rose as a murderer. Also, he could refuse and watch Rose die. A voice came into his head echoing over and over, "I'll be with you." He knew what he needed to do.
"I'm sorry Rose, but I can't kill Dumbledore. Rose, just know that I'll always love you."
"I love you too, Remus!" she yelled.
"If that's your choice," laughed Voldemort, "Crucio!" A flash of red and Rose lay withering on the floor in pain.
"Please, don't hurt her!" yelled Remus.
"Oh-no, that would be way to easy for you," sneered Voldemort nastily.
Remus lunged for him, but all he did was hit an invisible barrier.
"Please, no," he begged.
It was too late though, Rose slumped to the floor uttering her last three words, "I love you."
"NO, ROSE!!!!"
Voldemort's cold heartless laugh filled the cave.
"You! You! You killed her! You killed Rose, I'll kill you!" screamed Remus as he savagely attacked Voldemort with tooth and claw. Voldemort cursed and sent hexes flying at Remus that had no affect. Suddenly Remus was holding air as Voldemort disapparated into the night.
Quietly Remus went over to Rose and cradled her head in his arms. Sobbing, he held her all through the night. Speaking to her, he made his one vow, "No matter what Rose, I will avenge you. Voldemort will pay." As daylight broke Remus passed out from the pain, with tears streaming down his face and Rose in his arms.
**--------------------------------------------------------------**
Remus awoke mid afternoon the next day tired and starving. He knew that he had to get back to Hogwarts though before nightfall because that would be when the werewolves came back.
He picked up Rose's limp form and slowly began the long walk back. Crying the entire way he wondered what he could have done that might have saved her. Why didn't he take Voldemort's offer? Why didn't he offer his life instead? Why Rose?
Eventually, he found the path that lead to Hogwarts and started walking. Eyes could be seen in the bushes and Remus knew they were watching him, but he didn't care. All that was important was getting back to the castle with Rose.
**--------------------------------------------------------------** Everyone was having a great time enjoying and laughing.
BANG!!!
The door to the Great Hall opened and there stood Remus, sobbing uncontrollably with the lifeless figure of Rose draped across his arms. With a sudden outbreak he fell to the floor shaking non stop. Then, it all when dark to him.
**--------------------------------------------------------------** "Remus. Remus," came the soft voice of Professor Dumbledore.
Remus awoke to find himself surrounded by cards, and the twinkling eyes of Dumbledore.
"What? Where am I?" asked Remus. Then everything came back to him, the message, the forest, the werewolves, Voldmeort, and.Rose. Quietly he said, "Rose is dead. There's no point in living anymore. Life means nothing."
"Now Mr. Lupin, don't say that, you have your entire life ahead of you. You have to move on from this trauma." Dumbledore informed him.
"Professor Dumbledore you don't understand. Rose is gone and it's all my fault! If I had not been bitten," he rolled up his sleeve to reveal a long scar, "this never would have happened and Rose would still be alive. It's my fault she's dead! Mine!" and once more Remus broke down bawling hysterically.
"Mr. Lupin the death of Rose Evans was not your fault. The Dark Lord hates muggle-borns and would have gotten to her eventually. It has nothing to do what-so-ever with you being a werewolf."
"Now, if you could tell me what all that happened that night I would be very pleased. I know it will be hard, but you have shown incredible courage. Please start from the beginning."
So, Remus told the entire story, only leaving out the part about James and Sirius. He told of his confusion in the forest, the battle with the werewolves, and finally Voldemort's offer and Rose's death. By the end he was so emotionally drained that he nearly collapsed.
"Thank you Remus. You have shown me incredible courage, more than most have ever heard of. Take some of this sleeping potion and get some rest."
**--------------------------------------------------------------** When Remus got up he found Lily sitting on his beside. When he looked at her, her eyes were red and puffy, and she looked as though she had been crying for days. When she saw that he was awake she asked him if he would tell her about that night. Together the two of them shared all of their greatest memories with Rose, and spent hours crying and laughing together.
Finally she said to him quietly, "Remus, I thought that you ought to know that the funeral is going to be in two days. My mum and dad would be very grateful if you came."
"I wouldn't miss it for the world. I loved Rose."
"Thanks." she replied.
**--------------------------------------------------------------** The day of the funeral was the worst day of Remus' life. Lily, James, Sirius, Molly, Poppy, and Peter were all there looking grim and depressed. During the service Remus was asked to say a few things about her death, but had to stop in the middle, because he started crying hysterically.
Finally, when it came time to say good-bye he stood by the casket for 45 minutes stroking her hair and talking to her. James finally came and told him that it was time, so Remus said his final words to her.
"I'm sorry Rose that it had to end this way. I would much rather me be where you are right now. Rose, I will never forget you, and I will always love you. Voldemort will pay what he did to you, I'll make sure of it."
And so, with tears silently rolling down his face, Remus Lupin left never to see Rose again, yet knowing that one day he would get his revenge, and wondering how one little bite could ruin all.