This is a really long chapter, but it's full of a lot of interesting things. Enjoy!
And please review
The Ties That Bind
Chapter Eight: Slytherin vs Gryffindor
November 1, 1971
Sirius was silent at breakfast the morning after Halloween, poking at his food. He had stared at the same piece of sausage for about ten minutes and James was a little worried.
"What's wrong, mate? Why so silent?" James asked, glancing at Sirius as he finished his breakfast.
"Bad dream."
"Yesterday was just strange. Pass it off as Halloween jitters. Don't think anything of it."
"But it was so real."
"So are a lot of dreams, but that doesn't mean they're going to happen or something."
"Maybe." Sirius stood, pushing away his uneaten plate of food and walked out. James just looked after him, wondering what was going on.
Lily sat in the library, books spread on the table in front of her. She was working on the Charms assignment that was due next week and she already felt behind.
"Working ahead too?" a voice asked and Lily looked up to see Andromeda Black. Lily was silent, not sure what to say to the Slytherin girl, wondering if the next words out of her mouth would be an insult. That's how it usually worked with Slytherins in Lily's experience. To her surprise, Andromeda took a seat and sat her bag on the table. "I was looking through the chapter on advanced charms and I know our assignment is to find an advanced spell that catches our interest. And I was wonder if you had heard of the Blue Flame Charm. It's not in the book, but my dad told me about it when I was little and I've been looking for it."
Lily looked at the girl strangely, wondering why this Slytherin was being so nice to her. But she remembered when they had been walking to the Great Hall after crossing the lake that Andromeda had spoken to her and had been quite civil. And here she was, asking Lily for help.
"It's called Pyria Frigida," a voice said and the girls turned to see Remus standing there. He had seen better days, but at least color was back in his cheeks. He walked over, sitting on the edge of the table and held out his hand, where he had produced a ball of blue flame.
Both girls looked surprised. "That's advanced!" Lily exclaimed. "How do you know how to do that?"
Remus shrugged, the flame disappearing. "My mum taught me when I was little. I've always known."
"That's still wicked, though," Andromeda said.
"What did you need to know about it?" Remus asked.
"Oh," Andromeda turned to her parchments, rifling through them and then pulled out a parchment on what she had written down for the charm. It was only what her dad had told her. "You know our Charms assignment? I couldn't find hardly anything on the charm. That's why I was asking her."
"I'll be right back," Remus said, hopping off the table and disappearing around the corner of a bookshelf.
"Why did you come over here?" Lily asked, curious.
Andromeda looked at her. "Because I needed help."
"But I've never heard of a Slytherin asking a Gryffindor for help."
Andromeda looked slightly offended at this. "Just because I'm a Slytherin doesn't mean I won't ask for help." She stood, grabbing her books. "My cousin is fine with me; I don't see what your problem is."
Lily went to reply but just shut her mouth, turning back to her books. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Andromeda storm away, nearly knocking over Remus as she passed him. "Whoa," he said, catching his fall with the bookshelf. "Here." He dropped the book into Andromeda's arms and walked over to Lily, taking a seat. "What's her problem?"
Lily shrugged. "I don't know. She's a Slytherin." She flipped through her book, finding some information on the Bubble Head Charm. She began writing. I swear, secondary school was easier than this. I love magic and this is all very interesting, but with the way people treat each other around here, it just gets old.
"Remus!" an excited voice brought her out of her thoughts and she looked up to see Peter running through the library and almost knocking over Remus when he clapped his hands on Remus' shoulders. "You're okay!"
Remus laughed. "I'd hope so." Lily noticed that Remus looked immediately happier when Peter had come and smiled, continuing to work on her paper.
"What happened? I was so worried! I thought you had died or something!"
"No, nothing like that," Remus assured his friend. But Peter's worry warmed him and for the first time, ever, he felt like he belonged. "I'm sorry I couldn't help you with your DADA project. I was really sick."
"It's alright," Peter said quickly. "Leon helped me."
"That's good. I felt bad."
They seem really close, Lily thought, glancing at them every now and then as they talked. She tuned it out for the most part until Peter's voice broke through her thoughts again. "Lily, what charm are you doing?"
She looked up to see Peter and Remus looking at her. "Bubble Head."
Peter nodded. "I wanted to do the Conjunctivitis Curse, but I've only been able to write a few paragraphs."
"Do you want some help?" Lily offered and Peter grinned.
"That would be brilliant! Thanks!" Peter took a seat at the table.
"We'll both help," Remus said, smiling, and the three Gryffindors began working. Leon overheard the conversation and smiled. We needed a fourth. He's our fourth. With what he knows, he'll be perfect. He continued to work on his essay.
November 2, 1971
Excitement traveled through the air like electricity in water. It snowballed in size as the day went on, for that afternoon would be the first Quidditch match of the season: Gryffindor versus Slytherin. A much anticipated match, the rivalry between the two houses was at its max. Robert Wilkes, one of the Slytherin Chasers, had provoked Mark Johnson, one of the Gryffindor Chasers, into a fight that nearly ended with Mark in the hospital wing. But luckily Jeff had stepped in and the two had walked away with only bruises.
The day was windy, but clear and crisp. James, Sirius, and Leon had been near the front of the crowd as they walked to the pitch and thus managed to get front row seats.
"This is going to be wicked!" Sirius said, grinning.
"Of course," James said, grinning as well as they leaned against the ledge that prevented them from falling onto the pitch.
"I wouldn't be surprised if Slytherin cheats as usual," a voice said and the three boys turned to see Fabian walking over to them. "They've got both Lestranges, Wilkes, Nott and Macnair, and we all know how honorable they are."
"They're Slytherins, what do you expect?" James said, watching as the players flew out onto the field.
"Hey, my cousin is a Slytherin and she's not all that bad," Sirius pointed out.
"Do you know any other decent Slytherins besides her?" Leon asked.
"No."
"Exactly," James said.
"Welcome to the first Quidditch match of the season!" Alan Mowbery, third- year Ravenclaw, announced. "Slytherin versus Gryffindor! We've got quite the Slytherin team, led by Rudolphus Lestrange. What with the Lestrange brothers who are known for their skill and Dawn Hastings, a Keeper that hasn't let a Quaffle past her yet, the Slytherins are intimidating! And we have the Gryffindor team, led by Jeff Wood, with three amazing Chasers (Prewitt, Johnson, and Bell), but can Gryffindor finally pull the win against Slytherin? Who knows! And it begins! The Quaffle is released and they're off! Johnson to Prewitt. Oh! Look at that! Gallagher from Slytherin just snatched that Quaffle and there she goes, speeding towards the goal! Pass to Wilkes, to Lestrange and they score! Slytherin 10 Gryffindor 0."
"Oh come on!!" James yelled, pumping his fist at the players. "You can do better than that!"
"Yeah, don't let those Slytherin cheats win!" Sirius yelled.
"That's quite a hit! Longbottom from Gryffindor just smashed a Bludger at Slytherin's Seeker, Rabastan Lestrange! And there the Seekers go again! Lestrange and McKinnon are neck and neck! Oh, they miss it!" A loud 'aw' came from the ground. Suddenly the Slytherins were cheering once again. They had scored. It was now Slytherin 20 Gryffindor 0. "And there Wilkes from Slytherin goes! He's got the Quaffle, he passes to Gallagher, who passes to Lestrange. And Bell from Gryffindor steals it! There he goes, speeding towards the goal! And Macnair from Slytherin hits a Bludger, knocking Bell off his broom!"
"FOUL!" Leon yelled. "Come on Edgar! Smash those Slytherins!"
Edgar, one of the Gryffindor Beaters, smashed a Bludger towards Lestrange, who had gone for the Snitch again. Lestrange nearly flew into one of the towers, but managed to pull up just in time. Alex McKinnon dived and everywhere everyone took a deep breath, holding it. But Nott hit a Bludger towards Alex and although Frank managed to knock the Bludger away, the Snitch was lost again.
Sirius had taken the puffskein from James' pocket, playing with it, trying to calm down but with Slytherin scoring constantly, this was hard. When Slytherin was head 70 to 0, Sirius lost control.
"THIS IS PATHETIC!!" Sirius yelled, chucking the puffskein out into the pitch. Then he realized what he had done and stared. "Oops."
James saw it to and his eyes widened, but when the puffskein landed in Nott's robes making him veer around like he was being chased, James burst out laughing and so did Sirius.
"I meant to do that," Sirius said, grinning. Hope the puffskein is alright. Sirius, James, and Leon all doubled over in laughter when the puffskein attached itself to Nott's hand and wouldn't let go.
"And it seems one of the Slytherin Beaters is having a mild problem with flying! Slytherin's ahead by 100! It doesn't look like Gryffindor has a chance...but there goes McKinnon! For the Snitch again! He's closer...closer...and...Lestrange is neck and neck with him! And...no! They lost it! Good flying for the Chasers."
The match continued on for another few hours until Slytherin was in the lead by 150. Alex had dived for the Snitch again and the Gryffindors held their breath.
Come on!! We can win this! James thought, squeezing his hands tightly.
"McKinnon is going for the Snitch yet again! And Lestrange is coming up behind him...this is going to be close! And yes! McKinnon catches the Snitch!"
The Gryffindors began cheering but when Alan spoke again, the cheering was cut off. "But Slytherin wins!"
"NO!!" Sirius pounded his fist on the top of the ledge.
Leon didn't look happy at all and was clenching his fists, glaring. "How hard is it to catch that Snitch?! I can do it in my sleep!"
"No you can't," James pointed out.
"Shut up."
"It's the truth."
"I know."
"Then why did you tell me to shut up."
"Oh just –" Leon sighed, the anger filtering out of him. James always did manage to calm him down.
"You think that puffskein is alright?" James bit his lip, looking over the ledge.
This made Sirius snicker. "I'm sure it is." He and James looked over the ledge and spotted the fuzzball down on the pitch.
"Wingardium Leviosa," James said and easily levitated the puffskein up into their hands. It was shaking but James petted it and soothed it. Placing it back into his pocket, he looked at Sirius. "The little guy needs some rest. We can use him against Snape tomorrow."
Sirius grinned. "Sounds good to me."
"What are you two planning this time?" Leon asked as the three of them headed back to the castle.
"Nothing big. Just a little fuzz attack on Snape," Sirius snickered.
"Did you think on that big prank?" Leon asked.
James shrugged. "I looked for the spell, but I can't find it."
"What spell is that?"
"The one that makes certain people see things that no one else does," Sirius said. "But it has to be for the Slytherins, and I don't know anything that can do that."
"You know, there's probably one person that can help you," Leon said.
"Who's that?" James asked, curious.
"Remus."
James rolled his eyes. "Right, like I'd ask him to help us with our prank. He's more likely to tell on us than help us."
"You don't know that," Leon pointed out.
"We don't get along, Leon," Sirius said. "It won't work."
"All I'm saying is that I know Remus has a really vast knowledge on spells and curses and all that. He'd be the best one to help you. Because I know Lily wouldn't. She doesn't approve of pranks."
"I'm not asking him, Leon," James said simply. "I'd sooner ask Snape for help than Lupin, and we all know that's never going to happen."
Leon shrugged. "It's just a thought."
"Exactly. A thought. Not something that makes sense," Sirius said.
"Oy! Leon!" Leon turned to see Beth Cusack, a first-year Hufflepuff, running over to him.
"Hi, Beth," Leon smiled.
"Did you get that Potions essay done yet?"
"Not yet, but I'm going to work on it now."
"Care if I join?"
"Nope, not at all." Leon turned to ask James and Sirius if they wanted to join but they had disappeared. Shrugging, Leon looked back at Beth. "Let's go."
She smiled. "Brill. Alright, so this is what I had –" she began and the two of them walked towards the library, discussing the homework.
November 15, 1971
"We only have three more weeks until Christmas holidays," Sirius said. He and James were sitting in a corner of the Gryffindor common room, discussing their prank.
"I know that, Sirius, but we've looked everywhere for that spell. I don't even know what it's called, or if there's something that can even do that."
"An Illusion Charm?"
"But it'd have to be really strong. I mean, we want it to last the entire day, and for all of the Slytherins."
"It's called Nulverus," a voice said. James and Sirius looked over to see Remus flipping through a book.
"We didn't ask you, Lupin," James said coolly.
"So? I knew what you needed, so I said it."
"What, so you can pretend you're better than us?" Sirius said, rolling up. "Whatever."
Remus ignored them and they looked at each other. They stood, walking towards the stairs and stopped, glancing back at Remus. "He's right though," Sirius admitted.
James didn't look happy. "So what."
"At least we know what it's called; now all we have to do is find it."
"You won't find it," Remus said as he walked past them. "It's only in one book and that book you can't get to." Remus disappeared up the stairs.
James glared after him. "That prat, he thinks he's so much better than us. Arrogant enough."
Sirius had to smirk at this. "James, you're a hypocrite."
"I am not." James looked at Sirius.
"You are." Sirius chuckled. "Arrogant? Sounds like you, mate."
"I have a right to be."
"Sure." Sirius grinned and James eyed him.
"You're my best friend, be nice."
"I only take after the best." Sirius said with a straight face, which he didn't hold for very long as James threw a pillow at Sirius.
"You're going down," James said, laughing, and the two boys began wrestling.
When they finally broke apart, breathing hard, they just sat there on the floor of the common room, looking at each other.
"So how do we get that book?" Sirius asked.
"We don't even know where it is," James sighed.
A large heavy book as dropped into James' lap and they looked up to see Remus standing there. "There's your book."
James eyed him. "I thought you said you can't get to the book."
"No, I said you couldn't get to it. I didn't say I couldn't," Remus said calmly.
"You expect us to let you in with us or something?" Sirius asked.
"I never said that. But if you want to pull your prank, you're going to need someone that can perform that charm and teach you how to do that." The only reason I'm doing this is because Leon convinced me to, Remus thought. He's been nothing but nice to me. I'm doing this for him. And for the fact that this is the perfect chance to get back at Romulus.
"And I suppose you know of someone that can?" James said, his gaze cool.
"Yes, I do," Remus said, his face cool.
"So who is it?" Sirius asked.
"Me."
"How did I figure," James said, rolling his eyes.
"You think on it, and let me know. I'll only help you on the condition that you leave me and Peter alone," Remus said, his gaze remaining cool as he walked away.
James and Sirius looked at each other. "You know, I hate it when I have to admit he's right," James sulked.
"I can't believe I'm saying this, but we do need him," Sirius sighed.
James looked after Remus, who was sitting in a chair in a corner. James looked back at Sirius. "He knows a lot of charms and spells. And he did get the book." James sighed. "Alright, fine, we'll let him in."
Sirius nodded, patting James on the head. "See? That wasn't too hard."
"Oh shut up," James laughed and threw a pillow at Sirius, who caught it.
"You know I'm right."
"I know." James smirked.
Sirius stood. "Come on."
"What are we doing?"
"Going to tell Lupin he's in."
"You can go do that. I've got better things to do." James stood, walking away.
Sirius shrugged and walked over to where Remus was sitting. "Alright, you're in. And we'll leave you and Pettigrew alone. But you can't say a word to anyone."
"I never said I was going to." Remus didn't look up from his book.
"And you can't rat us out to the teachers."
"I'd be getting myself in trouble. That'd be pointless."
"Good. Meet us in the Astronomy Tower tomorrow night. We'll go over the plans then."
"Fine."
Sirius walked away, going to find James.
November 16, 1971
"Hey, Remus, do you think you can help me with this tonight?" Peter asked as he and Remus walked away from lunch, heading to Herbology.
"I'm sorry, not tonight," Remus said, feeling bad. Helping James and Sirius...never thought I'd see that day.
"It's alright," Peter said, shrugging. "I'll see if someone else can help."
"Okay. But if you can't find anyone, I'll help you tomorrow morning during breakfast."
"Thanks." Peter smiled.
During class that day, they were divided into groups to pick off leaves of Yarrow. James, Sirius, Leon and Remus were placed into a group together and they didn't talk to each other much as they picked off the pink tinged leaves, dropping them into a basket.
"So are you going to show tonight?" James finally said, glancing at Remus.
"I said I was, so I will," Remus responded, focusing on picking off the leaves.
Leon arched an eyebrow, looking at James and Sirius. "So you listened."
"We have our reasons." Sirius shrugged.
"This is going to be good," James smirked. "Once we get everything finalized tonight, we're ready to roll for next week."
"You're coming with us," Sirius said, glancing at Remus.
"Obviously," Remus said, looking up at Sirius as he dropped the leaves into the basket.
"Don't expect anything from this," James said.
"I wasn't."
"Good."
Peter was working with Lily and two Ravenclaws nearby and couldn't help but overhear the boys' conversation. He glanced at Remus and then looked back at the leaves. Why is it I feel suddenly alone? Like Remus left me. And why is he talking to them anyways? They're jerks, both of them. Leon's alright, but why is Remus suddenly fine around them?
"Peter, are you okay?" Lily asked, concerned.
Peter looked up, startled. "What? Oh, I'm fine."
"Are you sure? You look upset."
Peter shrugged. "It's nothing." I'm used to it, being left alone. Everyone leaves me. Even when I was little, I was always the kid at the playground that no one wanted to play with. He sighed. Why was I daft enough to think that this would be any different. He picked at the leaves, silent. When class ended, he grabbed his things and left before Remus could come and talk to him. Finding a seat by the window in the common room, he sat down, hugging his knees to his chest and just looked outside.
Remus, meanwhile, had headed to the library to get his homework done for that coming Friday. Since he was doing the prank, he needed to get everything done before that night. Though he wasn't one to go back on what he said, he kept wondering why he was doing this. I don't even like them. Why am I suddenly willing to help them with a prank?
Because it'll be fun, his inner voice replied.
Remus sighed, dipping his quill into the ink bottle and continued to write his Transfiguration essay on basic Transfigurations. I wonder if Peter's alright. I didn't see him anywhere after Herbology.
"Would you look at this, my little brother working hard on his homework," a sneering voice said.
Remus didn't even have to look up to recognize Romulus' voice. "You're older than me by a minute, Romulus, I hardly call that much of a difference," he said coolly.
Romulus smirked, sitting on the table and nearly knocking over Remus' ink bottle, which Remus caught only just in time. He glared slightly at Romulus but went back to his essay. He spotted Christina and Evan sitting at a table nearby, smirking over at Remus.
"Oh, but it is when it's obvious who the better is."
"You can jab at me all you want, Romulus, I don't care."
Romulus set his hand down on Remus' essay, causing Remus to look up at his brother. Romulus was looking at him coolly. "I heard you were talking to Potter and Black."
"They're in my house, Romulus; I think I have a right to talk to them."
"But they're completely not worth your time."
"And talking to you is?" Remus pushed his brother's hand away and went back to writing.
Romulus glared, standing. "You're nothing but a freak. At least do us all a favor and keep it to yourself. We wouldn't want it rubbing off on other people."
Remus ignored him and continued to write. When he saw Romulus go back to his friends, Remus finished what he was doing and stood, gathering his books. He left without another look at his brother.
"Score!" James grinned as he hovered on one of the school's brooms on the Quidditch pitch. He and Sirius were throwing around a Quaffle that they had borrowed from Alex. Leon had to finish a Charms project with Susan and John, two Ravenclaws. So, since there was nothing else to do, James and Sirius decided to go outside to work on their Quidditch skills and basically to just have fun.
Sirius smirked, the Quaffle in his hands. He had caught it on the other side of the hoops. "So we're tied."
"No, mate, sorry. I'm up by one."
"No."
James grinned. "Yes. I've scored four times."
Sirius thought about it and then shrugged. "Okay. But I'll still win." Sirius grinned back.
"Maybe in another life!" James laughed, stealing the Quaffle and shooting up to score again. Sirius laughed, racing after him.
Hours later, the two boys finally landed, exhausted and sore. "That was good," Sirius said as they headed back to the castle.
"We'll make the team next year."
"How are you so sure?"
James smirked. "I'm a Potter, I'm always right."
Sirius laughed. "Who am I to argue with that?"
James grinned. "Exactly." As they walked, Sirius stopped, looking at the Whomping Willow. Its branches stood still in the night air, but Sirius knew that if anything went near it, the branches would thrash around.
"Do you suppose anyone's been able to touch it yet?" Sirius mused.
James walked over to stand next to Sirius. He shrugged. "Everyone always tries, I see them after class, but I don't think anyone has yet."
Sirius got a mischievous grin on his face. "I bet we could touch it."
James looked at Sirius like he was mad. "You know I'm always up for adventure, but we could get killed."
"But isn't that the fun of it?"
"You go ahead. I'll be here to save your neck."
Sirius laughed. "Come on, where's your spirit?"
"Safe inside me and it's staying that way."
"Okay, fine, spoilsport."
James smirked. "Besides, it's much more fun if someone else tries and gets smacked. Then we can laugh."
"As long as they don't get hurt."
James shrugged. "Depends who it is."
Sirius looked back at the willow. "Another time then." He glanced upwards at the night sky. "The moon's almost full. Shall we plan another nightly adventure into the forest?" He grinned at James.
"Of course. Let's go inside now, it's getting cold." James rubbed his arms, feeling that prickly sensation on the back of his neck. Just like when I heard that voice in the corridor...
"Okay." Sirius didn't seem to feel anything strange and James wondered if it was just him. Maybe I had too much pudding at dinner, James thought as they walked back into the castle.
"Oy! Felicity!" Jeff called, running slightly to catch up with Felicity Wells, who was Head Girl and a Hufflepuff.
Felicity, a tall girl with light brown hair and glasses, turned and smiled upon seeing Jeff. "Hi, Jeff. What do you need?"
"I wanted to double check with you about the Prefect meetings on Saturday night. I know they're at eight, but Professor Flitwick wants my group to present our project then, since we won't have time during the week."
"Oh, that's fine. I'll post notices in the common rooms and have the meeting moved up to seven. Will that work?"
Jeff nodded, smiling. "Thanks, Felicity."
"Anytime, Jeff."
"Oy! Jeff, do we have to have practice tomorrow?" Jeff turned to see Alex running down the corridor towards him. "I've got this project due on Friday and there's some stuff we have to finish tomorrow."
"I'd better get going, I'll see you later," Felicity said, smiling and leaving.
"Bye!" Jeff waved to her and then turned back to Alex. "We've got a match next week; we have to get that practice in if we want to have even a remote shot at winning the Cup."
"But what about the project?"
"Just come to the first hour of practice and then you can go work on the project, okay?"
"Thanks!" Alex smiled gratefully.
"Alex!" Alex and Jeff turned to see James and Sirius walking down the corridor. "Here, thanks," James said, handing Alex the Quaffle.
"Thanks," Alex said, tucking it under an arm.
"So that's where the Quaffle went," Jeff smirked.
Alex just grinned. "I told you I was borrowing it."
"To give to first-years?"
James looked at Jeff. "We're just getting ready to be on the team next year."
"You're so sure of that?" Jeff looked amused. "It's good you have confidence."
Sirius had to bite back his laughter as he watched James literally puff out his chest. "Of course," James said confidently.
"Well, that's one thing you don't lack, confidence."
"And an ego," Sirius muttered, holding back a grin.
James just kicked Sirius lightly in the shins and Sirius grinned innocently back at James. "You'll have two openings, so I figure me and Sirius are the best bet," James said.
"We'll see," Jeff said, laughing lightly. "Just keep practicing."
Alex watched all this in amusement. Those two, always good for a laugh and something interesting.
"I have my rounds to do," Jeff continued. "So if you'll excuse me." He left and Alex looked at James and Sirius.
"It's a little early to assume you're on the team, but keep practicing and I'm sure you'll have a shot," Alex said. He headed after Jeff.
"We'll make it," James smirked as he and Sirius headed back to the common room.
"We'd better." Sirius laughed. "I'd hate to deal with you if we didn't."
James put an innocent look on his face. "Me? I'm the pure and innocent one here."
Sirius nearly choked as he burst out laughing. "Sorry, mate, don't see that."
James just rolled his eyes, laughing and punching Sirius lightly in the shoulder. "Come on; let's get to the Astronomy Tower."
"Ah yes, where our planning begins." Sirius grinned.
Peter was already asleep when Remus slipped in later that night along with James, Sirius, and Leon. As he laid down to sleep, Remus looked up at the ceiling of his four poster bed. So that's how they always sneak out, with James' Invisibility Cloak. I still can't believe I agreed to this. Remus sighed, rolling over onto his side and going to sleep.
November 21, 1971
On Monday, Sirius and James landed in detention for disrupting Transfiguration. They had been whispering to each other about the prank that night when Professor McGonagall had caught them. She had separated them, forcing them to sit on opposite ends of the classroom. And, unfortunately, that meant James was next to Remus.
The next night was the full moon and Remus wasn't in any shape to deal with James. He managed to ignore him during class and that night, when they all met down in the common room; Remus had to force himself to keep moving. He felt sick to his stomach and his skin had gone cold and clammy. James and Sirius didn't notice or at least Remus didn't think they did. Leon, however, did.
"Are you alright?" Leon asked Remus, pulling him off to the side.
"I'm fine," Remus brushed it off. "I must have got the flu or something. Madam Pomfrey said something was going around."
"You sure you still want to go through with this?" He looks like he could fall over any second, Leon thought.
Remus nodded. "I said I would. I won't back out now."
"Alright, but you let me know if you don't feel up to it."
"Sure."
James looked at them. "Are you two coming? We don't have all night."
"We were just talking." Leon walked over, Remus following.
"Alright, we've got the charms down and everyone remembers what they're doing?" James asked. They all nodded. "Good." James glanced around at the empty common room and then pulled out his Invisibility Cloak. "Let's go." The four of them grouped close beneath the cloak as they slipped out into the corridors.
"Ow, that's my foot," Sirius hissed.
"Sorry, it's cramped," Leon whispered.
They managed to get down to the dungeons and James looked at Remus. "Did you get the password?"
"Yes," Remus said, just giving James a cool look. "Pureblood," Remus spoke a little louder. The wall slid sideways, revealing a hall. They slipped inside and made their way into the common room.
"They really need a redecorator," Sirius muttered and James smirked.
The Slytherin common room was empty, thankfully. The group found their way up to the dorms and one by one, they hit all the dorms. James and Sirius whispered the spell to change all the Slytherins' hair gold and deep red. Then Remus and Leon whispered the spell that would make all the Slytherins see normal hair colors on themselves and each other.
Their mission accomplished, they snuck back down the stairs and had nearly made it to the exit when Lucius Malfoy strode inside. Sirius couldn't resist sticking out his foot and tripping Lucius. Barely holding back his snickering, Sirius clapped a hand over his and James' mouths. Lucius looked around, his gaze narrowed, but then shook it off as nothing, disappearing up the stairs. But not before Leon and Remus managed to whisper the spells.
"Nice one," Leon whispered. "You almost got us caught!"
"Oh, I couldn't resist," Sirius smirked.
"Let's go before we really do get caught," James whispered and they nodded in agreement, sneaking out and back to their common room.
November 22, 1971
The morning of the Quidditch match of Gryffindor versus Ravenclaw dawned cold and windy, but at least it was mostly clear skies. James and Sirius couldn't help but snicker when all the Slytherins walked in that morning with red and gold hair.
"Thanks for supporting Gryffindor!" Sirius yelled over to their table at breakfast and then burst out laughing. All the Slytherins looked at him oddly and then went back to their food.
The Gryffindors had grins on their faces the entire day and even some of the teachers were smiling. When Professor McGonagall confronted James and Sirius, they had assured her that it would wear off by that night. James knew how much McGonagall wanted Gryffindor to win. If they won, that would keep them in the running for the Cup and it had been awhile since they had won it.
Gryffindor, of course, smashed Ravenclaw and that only heightened the Gryffindors' excitement. They were in the running. Now all that had to happen was for Ravenclaw to beat Hufflepuff and Gryffindor to beat Hufflepuff, and they'd be going up against Slytherin. But all those matches would wait until after the Christmas holidays that were drawing nearer.
James and Sirius were leaving Potions when they spotted Snape walking towards the door. After checking to make sure Professor Sharaff was in her office, James looked towards Snape. "Here, let me get the door for you," James said smoothly, with a perfectly straight face. He held the door open as Snape walked by, glaring coolly at James.
"You think you're so bloody popular, don't you," Severus sneered.
James just smirked. "I'm a Potter, of course I'm loved. Besides, I'm not the one wearing Gryffindor hair color."
Severus rolled his eyes. "You're pathetic, Potter."
Sirius was leaning casually against the doorframe and as Snape walked by them, Sirius stuck out his foot, causing Snape to fall flat on his face. James and Sirius both burst out laughing as they stepped over him.
"I'm not the one flat on my face," James smirked, making sure he kicked Snape's bag of books away, sending it skidding down the corridor. They could hear others laughing as they walked away.
"Score." James grinned, slapping Sirius a high five as they rounded a corner.
Later that day, during Transfiguration, Professor McGonagall was having them change porcupines into pincushions. But first, she lectured them on different forms of Transfigurations. James was sitting back in his chair and would have had his feet up on the table if the porcupines hadn't been sitting there.
Remus just ignored James, still none too happy that he had to sit by him. He focused instead on Professor McGonagall, listening and writing down what she was saying.
James glanced over at Remus and rolled his eyes. Figures I'd have to sit next to Lupin. Oh well, I suppose he's not that bad. He did help us with that huge prank and it was a success because of that. He shifted in his chair and felt something poke into his back. A confused look passed over his face as he reached into his robes. His hand wrapped around something cool and he pulled out the mirror his father had given him. Immediately, he grinned. The mirrors! I wonder if Sirius brought his.
James slouched down into his seat so that the mirror was hidden from all prying eyes. "Sirius," he whispered.
Moments later, Sirius' face appeared and James grinned. "Brilliant idea, mate," Sirius said, grinning back.
"Okay, so, do you see Rosier and Snape?"
"Hard to miss the grease-ball," Sirius snickered.
"I know. Okay, so here's the plan. Just before Professor McGonagall tells us to being our transfigurations, distract the class. Then I'll slip their porcupines into their bags."
"Basic prank, but sounds good."
James grinned. "Of course it is. Show time." He slipped the mirror back into his pocket, making sure McGonagall hadn't seen him.
"It's obvious what you're planning," Remus said coolly, glancing at James.
James looked over at him. "What are you talking about."
"I saw the mirrors. Whatever you and Sirius are planning, it won't work."
"How do you know." How dare he act like he knows what he's talking about. Sirius and I are the pranksters, not him, James thought, his gaze narrowing.
"Because, if you want to distract Snape and Rosier, then you'll have to do something close to them. Sirius is on the other side of the room." Professor McGonagall looked at them and Remus shut his mouth, going back to writing. When McGonagall continued to lecture, Remus glanced at James, still writing. "You're good enough to transfigure anything into a porcupine. Just point your wand at their bags and change a book or something. Much easier and less of a chance you'll be caught."
"Like you know what you're talking about," James said coolly, looking back over at Sirius. When he was sure Remus wasn't looking, James made a cutting motion across his throat. Sirius looked at him, confused.
Then James pulled out the mirror again. Sirius' face was already there. "What are you doing?" Sirius asked.
"Change of plans. I can see Rosier's bag from here but not Snape's. Can you?"
"Yeah...why?" Sirius was still confused. What's James planning?
"Just point your wand towards the bag and whisper the Transfiguration spell to change something into a porcupine. If you can see the tip of any of his books, just change one of those."
"Alright, but you think this will work?"
"Yeah. It's much easier and less of a chance we'll get caught," James said, unconsciously echoing what Remus had said to him.
"Okay." Sirius' face disappeared and James slid the mirror back into his pocket.
"Mr. Potter."
James looked up, startled to see Professor McGonagall looking at him. Merlin, I hope she didn't see the mirror. "Yes, Professor?"
"It seems you find something more interesting than my lecture? Then, by all means, show the class how you Transfigure a porcupine into a pin cushion."
James put on his air of confidence, but still leaned back in his chair. He lazily flicked his wand at the porcupine, turning it into a perfect pin cushion. "Here you are, Professor."
McGonagall took the pin cushion, inspecting it. "Very good, Mr. Potter. But you're still serving detention this evening along with Mr. Black and Mr. Lupin. It seems the three of you prefer talking in class rather than paying attention." McGonagall set the pin cushion down and walked back around the tables as the rest of the class began their Transfigurations.
Remus glared at James. "Thanks for the detention," he said coldly.
"Anytime," James retorted, rolling his eyes and looking over at Sirius. "Did you do it?" he mouthed.
Sirius nodded, winking. James grinned and then, when McGonagall had her back turned, James flicked his wand towards Rosier's bag, Transfiguring a book he could see into a porcupine. He snickered and when McGonagall glanced at him, he began Transfiguring other things into pin cushions.
Sirius watched this with amusement. I could care less about the detention. It's just what, number 100? He snickered and Transfigured his porcupine with just as much ease as James. It was easy to see why they were the top wizards. I just wish Moody would let us have a dueling tournament. I know James and I could hold our own. I mean, we go to all those practices every week and we beat everyone that goes against us. Of course, Moody only lets us duel other first-years, but I'm sure if we went up against some of the older students, we'd be fine.
He felt a thwap on the back of his head and turned to see his cousin sitting there. "Getting into trouble again?" Andromeda teased, smirking.
Sirius rolled his eyes. "We're innocent, you know that."
"If that's true, then I'm a Hufflepuff and we both know that's not true."
"Never know, you could be under cover," Sirius said with a straight face.
"Please." Andromeda rolled her eyes, laughing. At that moment, class ended and they stood. At the sound of yelling, they turned to see both Snape and Rosier jumping around, shaking their hands, which were full of porcupine quills. James and Sirius snickered, slipping out.
Lily saw this and sighed. No one deserves that. She walked over to Evan. "Here, let me see." Evan looked like he was going to pull away but then let her take his hand in hers. She pulled out the quills and then pulled out some cream. "I use this on burns and cuts all the time. It helps a lot. Professor Sharaff made it for me." She rubbed the cream on his hand.
"Why are you doing this?" Evan asked, genuinely confused.
"What are you doing, Evan," Snape asked coolly, looking at Lily like she was something repulsive.
Evan pulled his hand from Lily's grasp like had been burned. "Nothing." He didn't even glance at Lily as he walked away with Severus.
"You tried, that's all you could do," Leon said, coming up behind her.
"Why you bothered though is beyond me," Jaina said. "I would have left him with the quills in his hand."
"That's what makes us different," Lily said simply. She picked up her bag. "I want to get ahead in Charms so I'm going to head to the library. You two coming?"
Jaina arched an eyebrow. "You know I'm allergic to books, Lils."
Lily laughed. "Oh, right, how could I have forgotten. Leon?"
Leon smiled. "Sure."
"Mind if we join?" They looked over to see Remus and Peter walking up.
"Not at all," Lily said, smiling.
"Smashing, Lils," Jaina grinned. "You go on and have fun in that dusty boring place filled with old things otherwise known as the library, and I'm going to go have fun."
Lily and Leon laughed. "How could I have guessed?" Leon said, smiling.
Jaina looked innocent. "Am I that obvious?" She laughed, giving them a wave and heading out.
"Thanks so much, Lily," Peter said gratefully. "Do you think you could help me with Potions sometime? I'm falling behind."
"Sure, Peter," Lily said, smiling. "Anything for a friend."
Peter smiled and even Remus smiled a little. "Thanks for helping him," Remus said. "Since I'll be busy with detention."
"Have fun with that one," Leon winced.
And it doesn't help that tonight's the full moon, Remus thought, sighing. "Actually, guys, I'm going to head back to the common room. I'm not feeling that well."
Lily looked worried. "Are you going to be alright?"
"It's nothing, just a bug or something," Remus waved it off. "I'll see you guys later." He left, leaving the three of them worried.
"He's been getting sick a lot lately," Peter said. "I'm worried."
"Has he gone to see Madam Pomfrey?" Leon asked.
Peter shrugged. "I don't know. I'd hope so."
"He should be okay, if he's going back to the common room," Lily said. "There will be a lot of people there in case he needs anything. Let's go get the studying done and then we'll check up on him after."
"Okay," Peter said, nodding.
"Sounds good." Leon smiled and they headed off.
As it began to grow darker, Remus headed to the hospital wing, catching Madam Pomfrey's attention. "Let's go, Remus," Madam Pomfrey said. "The sooner the better."
Remus nodded. "Did you talk to Professor McGonagall about the detention?"
"It's all taken care of. Don't worry." Madam Pomfrey gave him a small smile and then led him outside. As they neared the willow, the familiar sense of dread filled Remus' stomach. I hate this. I hate this, he thought over and over. I'm grateful to be able to go to school, but I wish this had never happened. "In you go." The passageway had opened up and Remus nodded.
"Thank you." Remus slipped into the tunnel, hearing the passage entrance close behind him. Making his way through the dark, damp tunnel, his thoughts drifted. I think Peter's the only one I'd trust right now to know what I am. But I'm afraid. I'm afraid that if he finds out, he won't want to be friends with me anymore. And wouldn't Romulus be happy with that. Then he could gloat that he was right all along and I'm nothing more than a freak. Someone that no one wants to be friends with.
Remus stepped over some upraised roots. There were certain advantages to what he was. Extended hearing and the ability to see well in the dark. But the good things were so tiny compared to the bad; it was hard to remember that.
He felt the ground slope upwards and soon he reached the shack. Going inside, he awaited the full moon.
When Leon, Peter, and Lily came back to the common room that night, they couldn't find Remus. Worried, they went to the hospital wing to see if Remus had gone there, but they had been informed that Remus had gone home. His mother had needed him but he would be back the next day. Though this didn't make sense to them, they headed back to the common room.
"What do you think is up?" Peter asked. "It just doesn't make sense." I'm really worried Peter thought. I hope he and his mother both get better.
"I don't know," Lily sighed, chewing on her lip thoughtfully. "Maybe his mother really did need him. We don't know for sure."
"I'm sure he's alright," Leon assured them, placing a hand on Peter's shoulder. I'm going to figure this out, Leon thought. There's no way this is right. It just doesn't make sense.
"I hope so," Lily said. "All we can do is talk to him tomorrow."
James and Sirius were heading back to the common room when they saw Lucius and Rudolphus walk by, or rather, storm by. Their hair color had returned to normal. "Those colors really looked good on you!" Sirius called after them and they stopped, turning to look at them.
"If it weren't for your cousin, I'd kill you where you stand, Black," Rudolphus spat.
Sirius and James just looked at them innocently. "What? We didn't do anything," Sirius said. Like he scares me. My cousin is scarier than him.
"You think its funny, do you?" Lucius sneered.
"Oh, not at all," James said with a straight face. Then he and Sirius burst into laughter.
If looks could kill, James and Sirius would have been six feet under. "Thanks for your support though, smashing really," Sirius grinned.
"You arrogant, sneaky –" Rudolphus hissed, moving right to Sirius and grabbing his shirt, shoving him up against the wall.
Sirius just grinned back. "Sorry, mate, that's your department."
James snickered. "He's right."
At that moment, Professor Sharaff walked by and stopped, looking at the boys. "Boys? Is there a problem?"
"No, Professor," Rudolphus said, dropping Sirius and glancing at Sharaff.
Lucius looked at James coldly. "You're lucky she came along," he whispered darkly before shoving past James. Rudolphus followed. Sirius slipped a dungbomb into the pocket of Rudolphus' robe as he brushed past Sirius.
"Are you alright?" Sharaff asked, looking at Sirius.
"Fine. Thanks," Sirius said, smiling. Let's see...three...two...
"What happened?"
Quick thinking, James thought. "Well, you see Professor –" and James began telling a long tale.
One, Sirius thought, grinning as he knew the bomb had gone off.
Laughter could be heard down the hall where the Slytherins had gone and then a yell of outrage. Professor Sharaff looked up. "You two stay out of trouble. I'm going to see what's going on."
"Fat chance," James muttered as Sharaff headed down the hall. James and Sirius grinned at each other.
"That was good," Sirius laughed.
"Very."
Laughing, the two boys headed back to their common room.
December 12, 1971
That morning, the majority of the students were packed up and heading to the train to leave for the holidays. Remus had found a compartment to himself, opting to sleep the ride away. James was happy to be going home, as he had missed his parents. Sirius was grumbling about going back home and wishing he could stay at Hogwarts. They had both received top marks, topped only by Lily. Peter was nervous, hoping that the eighty percents on his final grades would please his parents. Lily, who had received top marks in all her classes, was extremely excited to be going home. Her parents had written her a week ago, telling her that they'd meet her on the other side of the barrier and they couldn't wait to see her. All in all, most people were happy to be going home. Though a certain group of four had no idea was lay in store for them in the next couple of months.
And please review
The Ties That Bind
Chapter Eight: Slytherin vs Gryffindor
November 1, 1971
Sirius was silent at breakfast the morning after Halloween, poking at his food. He had stared at the same piece of sausage for about ten minutes and James was a little worried.
"What's wrong, mate? Why so silent?" James asked, glancing at Sirius as he finished his breakfast.
"Bad dream."
"Yesterday was just strange. Pass it off as Halloween jitters. Don't think anything of it."
"But it was so real."
"So are a lot of dreams, but that doesn't mean they're going to happen or something."
"Maybe." Sirius stood, pushing away his uneaten plate of food and walked out. James just looked after him, wondering what was going on.
Lily sat in the library, books spread on the table in front of her. She was working on the Charms assignment that was due next week and she already felt behind.
"Working ahead too?" a voice asked and Lily looked up to see Andromeda Black. Lily was silent, not sure what to say to the Slytherin girl, wondering if the next words out of her mouth would be an insult. That's how it usually worked with Slytherins in Lily's experience. To her surprise, Andromeda took a seat and sat her bag on the table. "I was looking through the chapter on advanced charms and I know our assignment is to find an advanced spell that catches our interest. And I was wonder if you had heard of the Blue Flame Charm. It's not in the book, but my dad told me about it when I was little and I've been looking for it."
Lily looked at the girl strangely, wondering why this Slytherin was being so nice to her. But she remembered when they had been walking to the Great Hall after crossing the lake that Andromeda had spoken to her and had been quite civil. And here she was, asking Lily for help.
"It's called Pyria Frigida," a voice said and the girls turned to see Remus standing there. He had seen better days, but at least color was back in his cheeks. He walked over, sitting on the edge of the table and held out his hand, where he had produced a ball of blue flame.
Both girls looked surprised. "That's advanced!" Lily exclaimed. "How do you know how to do that?"
Remus shrugged, the flame disappearing. "My mum taught me when I was little. I've always known."
"That's still wicked, though," Andromeda said.
"What did you need to know about it?" Remus asked.
"Oh," Andromeda turned to her parchments, rifling through them and then pulled out a parchment on what she had written down for the charm. It was only what her dad had told her. "You know our Charms assignment? I couldn't find hardly anything on the charm. That's why I was asking her."
"I'll be right back," Remus said, hopping off the table and disappearing around the corner of a bookshelf.
"Why did you come over here?" Lily asked, curious.
Andromeda looked at her. "Because I needed help."
"But I've never heard of a Slytherin asking a Gryffindor for help."
Andromeda looked slightly offended at this. "Just because I'm a Slytherin doesn't mean I won't ask for help." She stood, grabbing her books. "My cousin is fine with me; I don't see what your problem is."
Lily went to reply but just shut her mouth, turning back to her books. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Andromeda storm away, nearly knocking over Remus as she passed him. "Whoa," he said, catching his fall with the bookshelf. "Here." He dropped the book into Andromeda's arms and walked over to Lily, taking a seat. "What's her problem?"
Lily shrugged. "I don't know. She's a Slytherin." She flipped through her book, finding some information on the Bubble Head Charm. She began writing. I swear, secondary school was easier than this. I love magic and this is all very interesting, but with the way people treat each other around here, it just gets old.
"Remus!" an excited voice brought her out of her thoughts and she looked up to see Peter running through the library and almost knocking over Remus when he clapped his hands on Remus' shoulders. "You're okay!"
Remus laughed. "I'd hope so." Lily noticed that Remus looked immediately happier when Peter had come and smiled, continuing to work on her paper.
"What happened? I was so worried! I thought you had died or something!"
"No, nothing like that," Remus assured his friend. But Peter's worry warmed him and for the first time, ever, he felt like he belonged. "I'm sorry I couldn't help you with your DADA project. I was really sick."
"It's alright," Peter said quickly. "Leon helped me."
"That's good. I felt bad."
They seem really close, Lily thought, glancing at them every now and then as they talked. She tuned it out for the most part until Peter's voice broke through her thoughts again. "Lily, what charm are you doing?"
She looked up to see Peter and Remus looking at her. "Bubble Head."
Peter nodded. "I wanted to do the Conjunctivitis Curse, but I've only been able to write a few paragraphs."
"Do you want some help?" Lily offered and Peter grinned.
"That would be brilliant! Thanks!" Peter took a seat at the table.
"We'll both help," Remus said, smiling, and the three Gryffindors began working. Leon overheard the conversation and smiled. We needed a fourth. He's our fourth. With what he knows, he'll be perfect. He continued to work on his essay.
November 2, 1971
Excitement traveled through the air like electricity in water. It snowballed in size as the day went on, for that afternoon would be the first Quidditch match of the season: Gryffindor versus Slytherin. A much anticipated match, the rivalry between the two houses was at its max. Robert Wilkes, one of the Slytherin Chasers, had provoked Mark Johnson, one of the Gryffindor Chasers, into a fight that nearly ended with Mark in the hospital wing. But luckily Jeff had stepped in and the two had walked away with only bruises.
The day was windy, but clear and crisp. James, Sirius, and Leon had been near the front of the crowd as they walked to the pitch and thus managed to get front row seats.
"This is going to be wicked!" Sirius said, grinning.
"Of course," James said, grinning as well as they leaned against the ledge that prevented them from falling onto the pitch.
"I wouldn't be surprised if Slytherin cheats as usual," a voice said and the three boys turned to see Fabian walking over to them. "They've got both Lestranges, Wilkes, Nott and Macnair, and we all know how honorable they are."
"They're Slytherins, what do you expect?" James said, watching as the players flew out onto the field.
"Hey, my cousin is a Slytherin and she's not all that bad," Sirius pointed out.
"Do you know any other decent Slytherins besides her?" Leon asked.
"No."
"Exactly," James said.
"Welcome to the first Quidditch match of the season!" Alan Mowbery, third- year Ravenclaw, announced. "Slytherin versus Gryffindor! We've got quite the Slytherin team, led by Rudolphus Lestrange. What with the Lestrange brothers who are known for their skill and Dawn Hastings, a Keeper that hasn't let a Quaffle past her yet, the Slytherins are intimidating! And we have the Gryffindor team, led by Jeff Wood, with three amazing Chasers (Prewitt, Johnson, and Bell), but can Gryffindor finally pull the win against Slytherin? Who knows! And it begins! The Quaffle is released and they're off! Johnson to Prewitt. Oh! Look at that! Gallagher from Slytherin just snatched that Quaffle and there she goes, speeding towards the goal! Pass to Wilkes, to Lestrange and they score! Slytherin 10 Gryffindor 0."
"Oh come on!!" James yelled, pumping his fist at the players. "You can do better than that!"
"Yeah, don't let those Slytherin cheats win!" Sirius yelled.
"That's quite a hit! Longbottom from Gryffindor just smashed a Bludger at Slytherin's Seeker, Rabastan Lestrange! And there the Seekers go again! Lestrange and McKinnon are neck and neck! Oh, they miss it!" A loud 'aw' came from the ground. Suddenly the Slytherins were cheering once again. They had scored. It was now Slytherin 20 Gryffindor 0. "And there Wilkes from Slytherin goes! He's got the Quaffle, he passes to Gallagher, who passes to Lestrange. And Bell from Gryffindor steals it! There he goes, speeding towards the goal! And Macnair from Slytherin hits a Bludger, knocking Bell off his broom!"
"FOUL!" Leon yelled. "Come on Edgar! Smash those Slytherins!"
Edgar, one of the Gryffindor Beaters, smashed a Bludger towards Lestrange, who had gone for the Snitch again. Lestrange nearly flew into one of the towers, but managed to pull up just in time. Alex McKinnon dived and everywhere everyone took a deep breath, holding it. But Nott hit a Bludger towards Alex and although Frank managed to knock the Bludger away, the Snitch was lost again.
Sirius had taken the puffskein from James' pocket, playing with it, trying to calm down but with Slytherin scoring constantly, this was hard. When Slytherin was head 70 to 0, Sirius lost control.
"THIS IS PATHETIC!!" Sirius yelled, chucking the puffskein out into the pitch. Then he realized what he had done and stared. "Oops."
James saw it to and his eyes widened, but when the puffskein landed in Nott's robes making him veer around like he was being chased, James burst out laughing and so did Sirius.
"I meant to do that," Sirius said, grinning. Hope the puffskein is alright. Sirius, James, and Leon all doubled over in laughter when the puffskein attached itself to Nott's hand and wouldn't let go.
"And it seems one of the Slytherin Beaters is having a mild problem with flying! Slytherin's ahead by 100! It doesn't look like Gryffindor has a chance...but there goes McKinnon! For the Snitch again! He's closer...closer...and...Lestrange is neck and neck with him! And...no! They lost it! Good flying for the Chasers."
The match continued on for another few hours until Slytherin was in the lead by 150. Alex had dived for the Snitch again and the Gryffindors held their breath.
Come on!! We can win this! James thought, squeezing his hands tightly.
"McKinnon is going for the Snitch yet again! And Lestrange is coming up behind him...this is going to be close! And yes! McKinnon catches the Snitch!"
The Gryffindors began cheering but when Alan spoke again, the cheering was cut off. "But Slytherin wins!"
"NO!!" Sirius pounded his fist on the top of the ledge.
Leon didn't look happy at all and was clenching his fists, glaring. "How hard is it to catch that Snitch?! I can do it in my sleep!"
"No you can't," James pointed out.
"Shut up."
"It's the truth."
"I know."
"Then why did you tell me to shut up."
"Oh just –" Leon sighed, the anger filtering out of him. James always did manage to calm him down.
"You think that puffskein is alright?" James bit his lip, looking over the ledge.
This made Sirius snicker. "I'm sure it is." He and James looked over the ledge and spotted the fuzzball down on the pitch.
"Wingardium Leviosa," James said and easily levitated the puffskein up into their hands. It was shaking but James petted it and soothed it. Placing it back into his pocket, he looked at Sirius. "The little guy needs some rest. We can use him against Snape tomorrow."
Sirius grinned. "Sounds good to me."
"What are you two planning this time?" Leon asked as the three of them headed back to the castle.
"Nothing big. Just a little fuzz attack on Snape," Sirius snickered.
"Did you think on that big prank?" Leon asked.
James shrugged. "I looked for the spell, but I can't find it."
"What spell is that?"
"The one that makes certain people see things that no one else does," Sirius said. "But it has to be for the Slytherins, and I don't know anything that can do that."
"You know, there's probably one person that can help you," Leon said.
"Who's that?" James asked, curious.
"Remus."
James rolled his eyes. "Right, like I'd ask him to help us with our prank. He's more likely to tell on us than help us."
"You don't know that," Leon pointed out.
"We don't get along, Leon," Sirius said. "It won't work."
"All I'm saying is that I know Remus has a really vast knowledge on spells and curses and all that. He'd be the best one to help you. Because I know Lily wouldn't. She doesn't approve of pranks."
"I'm not asking him, Leon," James said simply. "I'd sooner ask Snape for help than Lupin, and we all know that's never going to happen."
Leon shrugged. "It's just a thought."
"Exactly. A thought. Not something that makes sense," Sirius said.
"Oy! Leon!" Leon turned to see Beth Cusack, a first-year Hufflepuff, running over to him.
"Hi, Beth," Leon smiled.
"Did you get that Potions essay done yet?"
"Not yet, but I'm going to work on it now."
"Care if I join?"
"Nope, not at all." Leon turned to ask James and Sirius if they wanted to join but they had disappeared. Shrugging, Leon looked back at Beth. "Let's go."
She smiled. "Brill. Alright, so this is what I had –" she began and the two of them walked towards the library, discussing the homework.
November 15, 1971
"We only have three more weeks until Christmas holidays," Sirius said. He and James were sitting in a corner of the Gryffindor common room, discussing their prank.
"I know that, Sirius, but we've looked everywhere for that spell. I don't even know what it's called, or if there's something that can even do that."
"An Illusion Charm?"
"But it'd have to be really strong. I mean, we want it to last the entire day, and for all of the Slytherins."
"It's called Nulverus," a voice said. James and Sirius looked over to see Remus flipping through a book.
"We didn't ask you, Lupin," James said coolly.
"So? I knew what you needed, so I said it."
"What, so you can pretend you're better than us?" Sirius said, rolling up. "Whatever."
Remus ignored them and they looked at each other. They stood, walking towards the stairs and stopped, glancing back at Remus. "He's right though," Sirius admitted.
James didn't look happy. "So what."
"At least we know what it's called; now all we have to do is find it."
"You won't find it," Remus said as he walked past them. "It's only in one book and that book you can't get to." Remus disappeared up the stairs.
James glared after him. "That prat, he thinks he's so much better than us. Arrogant enough."
Sirius had to smirk at this. "James, you're a hypocrite."
"I am not." James looked at Sirius.
"You are." Sirius chuckled. "Arrogant? Sounds like you, mate."
"I have a right to be."
"Sure." Sirius grinned and James eyed him.
"You're my best friend, be nice."
"I only take after the best." Sirius said with a straight face, which he didn't hold for very long as James threw a pillow at Sirius.
"You're going down," James said, laughing, and the two boys began wrestling.
When they finally broke apart, breathing hard, they just sat there on the floor of the common room, looking at each other.
"So how do we get that book?" Sirius asked.
"We don't even know where it is," James sighed.
A large heavy book as dropped into James' lap and they looked up to see Remus standing there. "There's your book."
James eyed him. "I thought you said you can't get to the book."
"No, I said you couldn't get to it. I didn't say I couldn't," Remus said calmly.
"You expect us to let you in with us or something?" Sirius asked.
"I never said that. But if you want to pull your prank, you're going to need someone that can perform that charm and teach you how to do that." The only reason I'm doing this is because Leon convinced me to, Remus thought. He's been nothing but nice to me. I'm doing this for him. And for the fact that this is the perfect chance to get back at Romulus.
"And I suppose you know of someone that can?" James said, his gaze cool.
"Yes, I do," Remus said, his face cool.
"So who is it?" Sirius asked.
"Me."
"How did I figure," James said, rolling his eyes.
"You think on it, and let me know. I'll only help you on the condition that you leave me and Peter alone," Remus said, his gaze remaining cool as he walked away.
James and Sirius looked at each other. "You know, I hate it when I have to admit he's right," James sulked.
"I can't believe I'm saying this, but we do need him," Sirius sighed.
James looked after Remus, who was sitting in a chair in a corner. James looked back at Sirius. "He knows a lot of charms and spells. And he did get the book." James sighed. "Alright, fine, we'll let him in."
Sirius nodded, patting James on the head. "See? That wasn't too hard."
"Oh shut up," James laughed and threw a pillow at Sirius, who caught it.
"You know I'm right."
"I know." James smirked.
Sirius stood. "Come on."
"What are we doing?"
"Going to tell Lupin he's in."
"You can go do that. I've got better things to do." James stood, walking away.
Sirius shrugged and walked over to where Remus was sitting. "Alright, you're in. And we'll leave you and Pettigrew alone. But you can't say a word to anyone."
"I never said I was going to." Remus didn't look up from his book.
"And you can't rat us out to the teachers."
"I'd be getting myself in trouble. That'd be pointless."
"Good. Meet us in the Astronomy Tower tomorrow night. We'll go over the plans then."
"Fine."
Sirius walked away, going to find James.
November 16, 1971
"Hey, Remus, do you think you can help me with this tonight?" Peter asked as he and Remus walked away from lunch, heading to Herbology.
"I'm sorry, not tonight," Remus said, feeling bad. Helping James and Sirius...never thought I'd see that day.
"It's alright," Peter said, shrugging. "I'll see if someone else can help."
"Okay. But if you can't find anyone, I'll help you tomorrow morning during breakfast."
"Thanks." Peter smiled.
During class that day, they were divided into groups to pick off leaves of Yarrow. James, Sirius, Leon and Remus were placed into a group together and they didn't talk to each other much as they picked off the pink tinged leaves, dropping them into a basket.
"So are you going to show tonight?" James finally said, glancing at Remus.
"I said I was, so I will," Remus responded, focusing on picking off the leaves.
Leon arched an eyebrow, looking at James and Sirius. "So you listened."
"We have our reasons." Sirius shrugged.
"This is going to be good," James smirked. "Once we get everything finalized tonight, we're ready to roll for next week."
"You're coming with us," Sirius said, glancing at Remus.
"Obviously," Remus said, looking up at Sirius as he dropped the leaves into the basket.
"Don't expect anything from this," James said.
"I wasn't."
"Good."
Peter was working with Lily and two Ravenclaws nearby and couldn't help but overhear the boys' conversation. He glanced at Remus and then looked back at the leaves. Why is it I feel suddenly alone? Like Remus left me. And why is he talking to them anyways? They're jerks, both of them. Leon's alright, but why is Remus suddenly fine around them?
"Peter, are you okay?" Lily asked, concerned.
Peter looked up, startled. "What? Oh, I'm fine."
"Are you sure? You look upset."
Peter shrugged. "It's nothing." I'm used to it, being left alone. Everyone leaves me. Even when I was little, I was always the kid at the playground that no one wanted to play with. He sighed. Why was I daft enough to think that this would be any different. He picked at the leaves, silent. When class ended, he grabbed his things and left before Remus could come and talk to him. Finding a seat by the window in the common room, he sat down, hugging his knees to his chest and just looked outside.
Remus, meanwhile, had headed to the library to get his homework done for that coming Friday. Since he was doing the prank, he needed to get everything done before that night. Though he wasn't one to go back on what he said, he kept wondering why he was doing this. I don't even like them. Why am I suddenly willing to help them with a prank?
Because it'll be fun, his inner voice replied.
Remus sighed, dipping his quill into the ink bottle and continued to write his Transfiguration essay on basic Transfigurations. I wonder if Peter's alright. I didn't see him anywhere after Herbology.
"Would you look at this, my little brother working hard on his homework," a sneering voice said.
Remus didn't even have to look up to recognize Romulus' voice. "You're older than me by a minute, Romulus, I hardly call that much of a difference," he said coolly.
Romulus smirked, sitting on the table and nearly knocking over Remus' ink bottle, which Remus caught only just in time. He glared slightly at Romulus but went back to his essay. He spotted Christina and Evan sitting at a table nearby, smirking over at Remus.
"Oh, but it is when it's obvious who the better is."
"You can jab at me all you want, Romulus, I don't care."
Romulus set his hand down on Remus' essay, causing Remus to look up at his brother. Romulus was looking at him coolly. "I heard you were talking to Potter and Black."
"They're in my house, Romulus; I think I have a right to talk to them."
"But they're completely not worth your time."
"And talking to you is?" Remus pushed his brother's hand away and went back to writing.
Romulus glared, standing. "You're nothing but a freak. At least do us all a favor and keep it to yourself. We wouldn't want it rubbing off on other people."
Remus ignored him and continued to write. When he saw Romulus go back to his friends, Remus finished what he was doing and stood, gathering his books. He left without another look at his brother.
"Score!" James grinned as he hovered on one of the school's brooms on the Quidditch pitch. He and Sirius were throwing around a Quaffle that they had borrowed from Alex. Leon had to finish a Charms project with Susan and John, two Ravenclaws. So, since there was nothing else to do, James and Sirius decided to go outside to work on their Quidditch skills and basically to just have fun.
Sirius smirked, the Quaffle in his hands. He had caught it on the other side of the hoops. "So we're tied."
"No, mate, sorry. I'm up by one."
"No."
James grinned. "Yes. I've scored four times."
Sirius thought about it and then shrugged. "Okay. But I'll still win." Sirius grinned back.
"Maybe in another life!" James laughed, stealing the Quaffle and shooting up to score again. Sirius laughed, racing after him.
Hours later, the two boys finally landed, exhausted and sore. "That was good," Sirius said as they headed back to the castle.
"We'll make the team next year."
"How are you so sure?"
James smirked. "I'm a Potter, I'm always right."
Sirius laughed. "Who am I to argue with that?"
James grinned. "Exactly." As they walked, Sirius stopped, looking at the Whomping Willow. Its branches stood still in the night air, but Sirius knew that if anything went near it, the branches would thrash around.
"Do you suppose anyone's been able to touch it yet?" Sirius mused.
James walked over to stand next to Sirius. He shrugged. "Everyone always tries, I see them after class, but I don't think anyone has yet."
Sirius got a mischievous grin on his face. "I bet we could touch it."
James looked at Sirius like he was mad. "You know I'm always up for adventure, but we could get killed."
"But isn't that the fun of it?"
"You go ahead. I'll be here to save your neck."
Sirius laughed. "Come on, where's your spirit?"
"Safe inside me and it's staying that way."
"Okay, fine, spoilsport."
James smirked. "Besides, it's much more fun if someone else tries and gets smacked. Then we can laugh."
"As long as they don't get hurt."
James shrugged. "Depends who it is."
Sirius looked back at the willow. "Another time then." He glanced upwards at the night sky. "The moon's almost full. Shall we plan another nightly adventure into the forest?" He grinned at James.
"Of course. Let's go inside now, it's getting cold." James rubbed his arms, feeling that prickly sensation on the back of his neck. Just like when I heard that voice in the corridor...
"Okay." Sirius didn't seem to feel anything strange and James wondered if it was just him. Maybe I had too much pudding at dinner, James thought as they walked back into the castle.
"Oy! Felicity!" Jeff called, running slightly to catch up with Felicity Wells, who was Head Girl and a Hufflepuff.
Felicity, a tall girl with light brown hair and glasses, turned and smiled upon seeing Jeff. "Hi, Jeff. What do you need?"
"I wanted to double check with you about the Prefect meetings on Saturday night. I know they're at eight, but Professor Flitwick wants my group to present our project then, since we won't have time during the week."
"Oh, that's fine. I'll post notices in the common rooms and have the meeting moved up to seven. Will that work?"
Jeff nodded, smiling. "Thanks, Felicity."
"Anytime, Jeff."
"Oy! Jeff, do we have to have practice tomorrow?" Jeff turned to see Alex running down the corridor towards him. "I've got this project due on Friday and there's some stuff we have to finish tomorrow."
"I'd better get going, I'll see you later," Felicity said, smiling and leaving.
"Bye!" Jeff waved to her and then turned back to Alex. "We've got a match next week; we have to get that practice in if we want to have even a remote shot at winning the Cup."
"But what about the project?"
"Just come to the first hour of practice and then you can go work on the project, okay?"
"Thanks!" Alex smiled gratefully.
"Alex!" Alex and Jeff turned to see James and Sirius walking down the corridor. "Here, thanks," James said, handing Alex the Quaffle.
"Thanks," Alex said, tucking it under an arm.
"So that's where the Quaffle went," Jeff smirked.
Alex just grinned. "I told you I was borrowing it."
"To give to first-years?"
James looked at Jeff. "We're just getting ready to be on the team next year."
"You're so sure of that?" Jeff looked amused. "It's good you have confidence."
Sirius had to bite back his laughter as he watched James literally puff out his chest. "Of course," James said confidently.
"Well, that's one thing you don't lack, confidence."
"And an ego," Sirius muttered, holding back a grin.
James just kicked Sirius lightly in the shins and Sirius grinned innocently back at James. "You'll have two openings, so I figure me and Sirius are the best bet," James said.
"We'll see," Jeff said, laughing lightly. "Just keep practicing."
Alex watched all this in amusement. Those two, always good for a laugh and something interesting.
"I have my rounds to do," Jeff continued. "So if you'll excuse me." He left and Alex looked at James and Sirius.
"It's a little early to assume you're on the team, but keep practicing and I'm sure you'll have a shot," Alex said. He headed after Jeff.
"We'll make it," James smirked as he and Sirius headed back to the common room.
"We'd better." Sirius laughed. "I'd hate to deal with you if we didn't."
James put an innocent look on his face. "Me? I'm the pure and innocent one here."
Sirius nearly choked as he burst out laughing. "Sorry, mate, don't see that."
James just rolled his eyes, laughing and punching Sirius lightly in the shoulder. "Come on; let's get to the Astronomy Tower."
"Ah yes, where our planning begins." Sirius grinned.
Peter was already asleep when Remus slipped in later that night along with James, Sirius, and Leon. As he laid down to sleep, Remus looked up at the ceiling of his four poster bed. So that's how they always sneak out, with James' Invisibility Cloak. I still can't believe I agreed to this. Remus sighed, rolling over onto his side and going to sleep.
November 21, 1971
On Monday, Sirius and James landed in detention for disrupting Transfiguration. They had been whispering to each other about the prank that night when Professor McGonagall had caught them. She had separated them, forcing them to sit on opposite ends of the classroom. And, unfortunately, that meant James was next to Remus.
The next night was the full moon and Remus wasn't in any shape to deal with James. He managed to ignore him during class and that night, when they all met down in the common room; Remus had to force himself to keep moving. He felt sick to his stomach and his skin had gone cold and clammy. James and Sirius didn't notice or at least Remus didn't think they did. Leon, however, did.
"Are you alright?" Leon asked Remus, pulling him off to the side.
"I'm fine," Remus brushed it off. "I must have got the flu or something. Madam Pomfrey said something was going around."
"You sure you still want to go through with this?" He looks like he could fall over any second, Leon thought.
Remus nodded. "I said I would. I won't back out now."
"Alright, but you let me know if you don't feel up to it."
"Sure."
James looked at them. "Are you two coming? We don't have all night."
"We were just talking." Leon walked over, Remus following.
"Alright, we've got the charms down and everyone remembers what they're doing?" James asked. They all nodded. "Good." James glanced around at the empty common room and then pulled out his Invisibility Cloak. "Let's go." The four of them grouped close beneath the cloak as they slipped out into the corridors.
"Ow, that's my foot," Sirius hissed.
"Sorry, it's cramped," Leon whispered.
They managed to get down to the dungeons and James looked at Remus. "Did you get the password?"
"Yes," Remus said, just giving James a cool look. "Pureblood," Remus spoke a little louder. The wall slid sideways, revealing a hall. They slipped inside and made their way into the common room.
"They really need a redecorator," Sirius muttered and James smirked.
The Slytherin common room was empty, thankfully. The group found their way up to the dorms and one by one, they hit all the dorms. James and Sirius whispered the spell to change all the Slytherins' hair gold and deep red. Then Remus and Leon whispered the spell that would make all the Slytherins see normal hair colors on themselves and each other.
Their mission accomplished, they snuck back down the stairs and had nearly made it to the exit when Lucius Malfoy strode inside. Sirius couldn't resist sticking out his foot and tripping Lucius. Barely holding back his snickering, Sirius clapped a hand over his and James' mouths. Lucius looked around, his gaze narrowed, but then shook it off as nothing, disappearing up the stairs. But not before Leon and Remus managed to whisper the spells.
"Nice one," Leon whispered. "You almost got us caught!"
"Oh, I couldn't resist," Sirius smirked.
"Let's go before we really do get caught," James whispered and they nodded in agreement, sneaking out and back to their common room.
November 22, 1971
The morning of the Quidditch match of Gryffindor versus Ravenclaw dawned cold and windy, but at least it was mostly clear skies. James and Sirius couldn't help but snicker when all the Slytherins walked in that morning with red and gold hair.
"Thanks for supporting Gryffindor!" Sirius yelled over to their table at breakfast and then burst out laughing. All the Slytherins looked at him oddly and then went back to their food.
The Gryffindors had grins on their faces the entire day and even some of the teachers were smiling. When Professor McGonagall confronted James and Sirius, they had assured her that it would wear off by that night. James knew how much McGonagall wanted Gryffindor to win. If they won, that would keep them in the running for the Cup and it had been awhile since they had won it.
Gryffindor, of course, smashed Ravenclaw and that only heightened the Gryffindors' excitement. They were in the running. Now all that had to happen was for Ravenclaw to beat Hufflepuff and Gryffindor to beat Hufflepuff, and they'd be going up against Slytherin. But all those matches would wait until after the Christmas holidays that were drawing nearer.
James and Sirius were leaving Potions when they spotted Snape walking towards the door. After checking to make sure Professor Sharaff was in her office, James looked towards Snape. "Here, let me get the door for you," James said smoothly, with a perfectly straight face. He held the door open as Snape walked by, glaring coolly at James.
"You think you're so bloody popular, don't you," Severus sneered.
James just smirked. "I'm a Potter, of course I'm loved. Besides, I'm not the one wearing Gryffindor hair color."
Severus rolled his eyes. "You're pathetic, Potter."
Sirius was leaning casually against the doorframe and as Snape walked by them, Sirius stuck out his foot, causing Snape to fall flat on his face. James and Sirius both burst out laughing as they stepped over him.
"I'm not the one flat on my face," James smirked, making sure he kicked Snape's bag of books away, sending it skidding down the corridor. They could hear others laughing as they walked away.
"Score." James grinned, slapping Sirius a high five as they rounded a corner.
Later that day, during Transfiguration, Professor McGonagall was having them change porcupines into pincushions. But first, she lectured them on different forms of Transfigurations. James was sitting back in his chair and would have had his feet up on the table if the porcupines hadn't been sitting there.
Remus just ignored James, still none too happy that he had to sit by him. He focused instead on Professor McGonagall, listening and writing down what she was saying.
James glanced over at Remus and rolled his eyes. Figures I'd have to sit next to Lupin. Oh well, I suppose he's not that bad. He did help us with that huge prank and it was a success because of that. He shifted in his chair and felt something poke into his back. A confused look passed over his face as he reached into his robes. His hand wrapped around something cool and he pulled out the mirror his father had given him. Immediately, he grinned. The mirrors! I wonder if Sirius brought his.
James slouched down into his seat so that the mirror was hidden from all prying eyes. "Sirius," he whispered.
Moments later, Sirius' face appeared and James grinned. "Brilliant idea, mate," Sirius said, grinning back.
"Okay, so, do you see Rosier and Snape?"
"Hard to miss the grease-ball," Sirius snickered.
"I know. Okay, so here's the plan. Just before Professor McGonagall tells us to being our transfigurations, distract the class. Then I'll slip their porcupines into their bags."
"Basic prank, but sounds good."
James grinned. "Of course it is. Show time." He slipped the mirror back into his pocket, making sure McGonagall hadn't seen him.
"It's obvious what you're planning," Remus said coolly, glancing at James.
James looked over at him. "What are you talking about."
"I saw the mirrors. Whatever you and Sirius are planning, it won't work."
"How do you know." How dare he act like he knows what he's talking about. Sirius and I are the pranksters, not him, James thought, his gaze narrowing.
"Because, if you want to distract Snape and Rosier, then you'll have to do something close to them. Sirius is on the other side of the room." Professor McGonagall looked at them and Remus shut his mouth, going back to writing. When McGonagall continued to lecture, Remus glanced at James, still writing. "You're good enough to transfigure anything into a porcupine. Just point your wand at their bags and change a book or something. Much easier and less of a chance you'll be caught."
"Like you know what you're talking about," James said coolly, looking back over at Sirius. When he was sure Remus wasn't looking, James made a cutting motion across his throat. Sirius looked at him, confused.
Then James pulled out the mirror again. Sirius' face was already there. "What are you doing?" Sirius asked.
"Change of plans. I can see Rosier's bag from here but not Snape's. Can you?"
"Yeah...why?" Sirius was still confused. What's James planning?
"Just point your wand towards the bag and whisper the Transfiguration spell to change something into a porcupine. If you can see the tip of any of his books, just change one of those."
"Alright, but you think this will work?"
"Yeah. It's much easier and less of a chance we'll get caught," James said, unconsciously echoing what Remus had said to him.
"Okay." Sirius' face disappeared and James slid the mirror back into his pocket.
"Mr. Potter."
James looked up, startled to see Professor McGonagall looking at him. Merlin, I hope she didn't see the mirror. "Yes, Professor?"
"It seems you find something more interesting than my lecture? Then, by all means, show the class how you Transfigure a porcupine into a pin cushion."
James put on his air of confidence, but still leaned back in his chair. He lazily flicked his wand at the porcupine, turning it into a perfect pin cushion. "Here you are, Professor."
McGonagall took the pin cushion, inspecting it. "Very good, Mr. Potter. But you're still serving detention this evening along with Mr. Black and Mr. Lupin. It seems the three of you prefer talking in class rather than paying attention." McGonagall set the pin cushion down and walked back around the tables as the rest of the class began their Transfigurations.
Remus glared at James. "Thanks for the detention," he said coldly.
"Anytime," James retorted, rolling his eyes and looking over at Sirius. "Did you do it?" he mouthed.
Sirius nodded, winking. James grinned and then, when McGonagall had her back turned, James flicked his wand towards Rosier's bag, Transfiguring a book he could see into a porcupine. He snickered and when McGonagall glanced at him, he began Transfiguring other things into pin cushions.
Sirius watched this with amusement. I could care less about the detention. It's just what, number 100? He snickered and Transfigured his porcupine with just as much ease as James. It was easy to see why they were the top wizards. I just wish Moody would let us have a dueling tournament. I know James and I could hold our own. I mean, we go to all those practices every week and we beat everyone that goes against us. Of course, Moody only lets us duel other first-years, but I'm sure if we went up against some of the older students, we'd be fine.
He felt a thwap on the back of his head and turned to see his cousin sitting there. "Getting into trouble again?" Andromeda teased, smirking.
Sirius rolled his eyes. "We're innocent, you know that."
"If that's true, then I'm a Hufflepuff and we both know that's not true."
"Never know, you could be under cover," Sirius said with a straight face.
"Please." Andromeda rolled her eyes, laughing. At that moment, class ended and they stood. At the sound of yelling, they turned to see both Snape and Rosier jumping around, shaking their hands, which were full of porcupine quills. James and Sirius snickered, slipping out.
Lily saw this and sighed. No one deserves that. She walked over to Evan. "Here, let me see." Evan looked like he was going to pull away but then let her take his hand in hers. She pulled out the quills and then pulled out some cream. "I use this on burns and cuts all the time. It helps a lot. Professor Sharaff made it for me." She rubbed the cream on his hand.
"Why are you doing this?" Evan asked, genuinely confused.
"What are you doing, Evan," Snape asked coolly, looking at Lily like she was something repulsive.
Evan pulled his hand from Lily's grasp like had been burned. "Nothing." He didn't even glance at Lily as he walked away with Severus.
"You tried, that's all you could do," Leon said, coming up behind her.
"Why you bothered though is beyond me," Jaina said. "I would have left him with the quills in his hand."
"That's what makes us different," Lily said simply. She picked up her bag. "I want to get ahead in Charms so I'm going to head to the library. You two coming?"
Jaina arched an eyebrow. "You know I'm allergic to books, Lils."
Lily laughed. "Oh, right, how could I have forgotten. Leon?"
Leon smiled. "Sure."
"Mind if we join?" They looked over to see Remus and Peter walking up.
"Not at all," Lily said, smiling.
"Smashing, Lils," Jaina grinned. "You go on and have fun in that dusty boring place filled with old things otherwise known as the library, and I'm going to go have fun."
Lily and Leon laughed. "How could I have guessed?" Leon said, smiling.
Jaina looked innocent. "Am I that obvious?" She laughed, giving them a wave and heading out.
"Thanks so much, Lily," Peter said gratefully. "Do you think you could help me with Potions sometime? I'm falling behind."
"Sure, Peter," Lily said, smiling. "Anything for a friend."
Peter smiled and even Remus smiled a little. "Thanks for helping him," Remus said. "Since I'll be busy with detention."
"Have fun with that one," Leon winced.
And it doesn't help that tonight's the full moon, Remus thought, sighing. "Actually, guys, I'm going to head back to the common room. I'm not feeling that well."
Lily looked worried. "Are you going to be alright?"
"It's nothing, just a bug or something," Remus waved it off. "I'll see you guys later." He left, leaving the three of them worried.
"He's been getting sick a lot lately," Peter said. "I'm worried."
"Has he gone to see Madam Pomfrey?" Leon asked.
Peter shrugged. "I don't know. I'd hope so."
"He should be okay, if he's going back to the common room," Lily said. "There will be a lot of people there in case he needs anything. Let's go get the studying done and then we'll check up on him after."
"Okay," Peter said, nodding.
"Sounds good." Leon smiled and they headed off.
As it began to grow darker, Remus headed to the hospital wing, catching Madam Pomfrey's attention. "Let's go, Remus," Madam Pomfrey said. "The sooner the better."
Remus nodded. "Did you talk to Professor McGonagall about the detention?"
"It's all taken care of. Don't worry." Madam Pomfrey gave him a small smile and then led him outside. As they neared the willow, the familiar sense of dread filled Remus' stomach. I hate this. I hate this, he thought over and over. I'm grateful to be able to go to school, but I wish this had never happened. "In you go." The passageway had opened up and Remus nodded.
"Thank you." Remus slipped into the tunnel, hearing the passage entrance close behind him. Making his way through the dark, damp tunnel, his thoughts drifted. I think Peter's the only one I'd trust right now to know what I am. But I'm afraid. I'm afraid that if he finds out, he won't want to be friends with me anymore. And wouldn't Romulus be happy with that. Then he could gloat that he was right all along and I'm nothing more than a freak. Someone that no one wants to be friends with.
Remus stepped over some upraised roots. There were certain advantages to what he was. Extended hearing and the ability to see well in the dark. But the good things were so tiny compared to the bad; it was hard to remember that.
He felt the ground slope upwards and soon he reached the shack. Going inside, he awaited the full moon.
When Leon, Peter, and Lily came back to the common room that night, they couldn't find Remus. Worried, they went to the hospital wing to see if Remus had gone there, but they had been informed that Remus had gone home. His mother had needed him but he would be back the next day. Though this didn't make sense to them, they headed back to the common room.
"What do you think is up?" Peter asked. "It just doesn't make sense." I'm really worried Peter thought. I hope he and his mother both get better.
"I don't know," Lily sighed, chewing on her lip thoughtfully. "Maybe his mother really did need him. We don't know for sure."
"I'm sure he's alright," Leon assured them, placing a hand on Peter's shoulder. I'm going to figure this out, Leon thought. There's no way this is right. It just doesn't make sense.
"I hope so," Lily said. "All we can do is talk to him tomorrow."
James and Sirius were heading back to the common room when they saw Lucius and Rudolphus walk by, or rather, storm by. Their hair color had returned to normal. "Those colors really looked good on you!" Sirius called after them and they stopped, turning to look at them.
"If it weren't for your cousin, I'd kill you where you stand, Black," Rudolphus spat.
Sirius and James just looked at them innocently. "What? We didn't do anything," Sirius said. Like he scares me. My cousin is scarier than him.
"You think its funny, do you?" Lucius sneered.
"Oh, not at all," James said with a straight face. Then he and Sirius burst into laughter.
If looks could kill, James and Sirius would have been six feet under. "Thanks for your support though, smashing really," Sirius grinned.
"You arrogant, sneaky –" Rudolphus hissed, moving right to Sirius and grabbing his shirt, shoving him up against the wall.
Sirius just grinned back. "Sorry, mate, that's your department."
James snickered. "He's right."
At that moment, Professor Sharaff walked by and stopped, looking at the boys. "Boys? Is there a problem?"
"No, Professor," Rudolphus said, dropping Sirius and glancing at Sharaff.
Lucius looked at James coldly. "You're lucky she came along," he whispered darkly before shoving past James. Rudolphus followed. Sirius slipped a dungbomb into the pocket of Rudolphus' robe as he brushed past Sirius.
"Are you alright?" Sharaff asked, looking at Sirius.
"Fine. Thanks," Sirius said, smiling. Let's see...three...two...
"What happened?"
Quick thinking, James thought. "Well, you see Professor –" and James began telling a long tale.
One, Sirius thought, grinning as he knew the bomb had gone off.
Laughter could be heard down the hall where the Slytherins had gone and then a yell of outrage. Professor Sharaff looked up. "You two stay out of trouble. I'm going to see what's going on."
"Fat chance," James muttered as Sharaff headed down the hall. James and Sirius grinned at each other.
"That was good," Sirius laughed.
"Very."
Laughing, the two boys headed back to their common room.
December 12, 1971
That morning, the majority of the students were packed up and heading to the train to leave for the holidays. Remus had found a compartment to himself, opting to sleep the ride away. James was happy to be going home, as he had missed his parents. Sirius was grumbling about going back home and wishing he could stay at Hogwarts. They had both received top marks, topped only by Lily. Peter was nervous, hoping that the eighty percents on his final grades would please his parents. Lily, who had received top marks in all her classes, was extremely excited to be going home. Her parents had written her a week ago, telling her that they'd meet her on the other side of the barrier and they couldn't wait to see her. All in all, most people were happy to be going home. Though a certain group of four had no idea was lay in store for them in the next couple of months.