Hey Guys! Sorry I took so long to update, but I promise that this chapter
is really good. I was going to have it be a two parter, but couldn't find a
good place to stop. So I'm posting the whole thing. All I can say is WOW to
all of the reviews that I received last chapter. I can't believe all of the
reviews that you guys sent in! My story is one away from the 100 mark and
it's all thanks to you guys! I never thought that my story would be liked
that much!
Vampchick001 – I'll buy you a box of thin mints, why not? I have to agree that goats are really evil. Every time I see one all I can think about is that scene from Heidi where one nails Shirley Temple in the butt. People laugh cause I walk around petting zoos with my ass covered. Oh well, they won't be laughing when it happens to them will they! Anyway, thank you for the awesome reviews! I can't wait to see how you like the next couple of ones.
Padfootlet – I'll buy you cookies! I just need to kidnap a Girl Scout so I don't have to pay for them, mwwuuuahhahhahaa. I have so many good ideas for Petunia's wedding. I can't wait for you to read it! So please keep the hamster army at bay! Thank you for all of the reviews that you have sent it! You know that I always look forward to reading what you have to say! Please keep it up!
MoonyOverMoony – Claire, I know exactly how you feel. I always loved James, but then I loved Remus in the third book. Then in the fourth and fifth, I fell in love with Sirius. Damn JK Rowling for making such manly characters! I haven't read Lily Evans: A History yet, but I'm going to read it as soon as I have some free time at the end of the month. I'm so glad that you love what I've written so far. Thank you for all of your awesome reviews and keep sending them in! I love hearing from you!
Sproxkkk – Hehehehe, Bellatrix is so wonderfully evil. You're going to love this chapter hehehehee. With the Sirius and Faith relationship; let's just say that you are going to get really frustrated with them. I'm sorry, but at least I'm buying you a box of cookies for it. Thanks for all of your reviews over the past 15 chapters! Please continue to review cause I love reading your reviews!
Flyingwind33 – Okay, this is probably going to make me sound really dumb, but what is a p*e** o**? I've been racking my brain and I can only come up with press off and I know that's not it. Hehehehe I can't wait for you to read about Petunia's wedding *evil laugh continues. You will enjoy it, I promise! Thank you for all of your wonderful reviews! I get so happy when I see your name above the review! Please continue to send them in and I will continue writing.
Jctigerwolf4e/Ljstagflower4e – How dare you go off and have a life! I'm insulted! I'm just kidding! I hope that you have fun! Thanks for all of your reviews, since day one! You are awesome and I love your sense of humor. Please keep reviewing and I will keep writing.
Aimee- Petunia's wedding is going to be a riot. I can't wait to write it! But unfortunately I have to write up until then, so I'll try to hurry it up. I don't know if Faith and Sirius are going to get down at James's Party. I mean, after all this is a PG-13 rating and I don't want them to look like complete sluts *evil grin. Thanks for your reviews and I hope that you keep sending them in!
JuLia- You are so sweet! Thank you for your lovely review! I can't wait to write Petunia's wedding. I know that you guys will be rolling on the floor. Hopefully. Thank you for reviewing and please continue to review!
Sammy Solo – Sammy Sammy Sammy! I glad that you liked the American mark. I couldn't help myself; I had to throw it in there. I had to make Faith an American because I think we are sort of snubbed by the Harry Potter world lol. I'm glad that you like Lily and James relationship. I don't want to make it all lovey-dovey and have people vomiting; cause real relationships aren't like that. You'll find out a little more about Faith and Sirius in this chapter. I hope you don't want to kill me after reading it though *evil grin. Chocolate chip cookies are on the way! Thanks for all of your reviews! I always look so forward to reading what you have to say! You always make me smile! Please keep reading and reviewing and I'll keep writing.
Swishy Willow Wand – Thank you for all of your reviews. I'm so glad that you like my story and I hope that you will continue to read and review it!
Tomboy7439- I would hate to be the reason for anyone to become traumatized. I can just see that lawsuit coming. Anyway, thank you for reviewing! I hope that you continue to read and review my story!
Here's the disclaimer: From the desk of Spanky the evil Hedgehog:
Due to the over abundance of demand for thin mints and chocolate chip cookies, I have Stephanie slaving away in the kitchen to make them. It was a sneaky trick for her to put that little promise into her story. Her attempt to drive me out by trying to bankrupt my operation with cookies has made me angry and therefore will be taken out on you, the readers. Even though Stephanie and Spanky EvilWorld Corporation do not own Harry Potter or anything Harry Potter related, we have decided to make this an extra long chapter. I hope that you all loose your desire for cookies as you painfully read this chapter. Mwwuuuaaahhhahhahahahahaha! Enjoy the story hahahahahaha! *cough, cough, cough Hmm.....meal worm.
Chapter 16: Wicked Acts
"Great," said Remus, putting down his lunch, "You're telling me that the next Hogsmeade trip is this weekend?" Peter nodded his head as he shoved a sandwich into his mouth.
"It said on the board this morning," he said through a mouthful of food. Remus let out a long disappointed sigh and pushed his food away from him.
"That's just bloody brilliant," said Remus, rubbing his forehead as if he had a headache. "Why does the full moon have to be on this weekend?"
"I'm sorry, mate," said James genuinely. "If you want we won't go either." Sirius looked sideways at James before nodding his head in agreement.
"James is right. If you can't go, then we won't either," said Sirius. "We'll make up some excuse, like Peter caught gonorrhea and we all have to be checked."
"No it's alright," said Remus with a small smile. "But thanks away for the thought."
"Well, we will go to Hogsmeade later than," said James. "It will be fun."
"I just feel awful because I promised Liz that we would go together on the next trip," said Remus gloomily. "She's going to feel awful when I tell her that I can't go."
"What are you going to tell her?" asked Sirius yawning widely.
"I already have that covered. I told Liz that I have a very ill mother and that I usually am called out of school at least once a month to go and make sure she is alright," said Remus dully. "I guess I'll have to tell her that I have to go this weekend."
James and Sirius nodded their heads in agreement. James always felt bad for Remus. He hated that his best friend had to lie to everyone he knew to hide his illness. James felt that it wasn't fair for someone so young that have to pay the rest of his life for something that wasn't even his fault. He wished deeply that the wizarding world did not have such a fear about werewolves and that his friend could be open about his illness without facing repercussion for it.
"She'll understand, mate. She is a nice girl," said James giving him an encouraging smile. "And speaking of the devil." Lily and Liz came bounding towards the Gryffindor table.
"What a class!" exclaimed Lily as she took a seat next to James. "I absolutely love Ancient Runes. They are so fascinating!" She looked around the table searching for something appetizing.
"Who knew that Stonehenge was actually an election method used by giants for deciding who would become the next chief," said Liz taking a seat next to Remus. "Amazing." She leaned over and kissed his cheek.
"Good class?" asked James, pouring Lily some pumpkin juice.
"Excellent," said Lily, choosing a piece of pizza. "Ancient Runes are so interesting. I can't wait until I can go out and study them for myself." James laughed and hugged Lily around the waist.
"My little explorer," he said, kissing her on the cheek quickly. Sirius made retching noises next to James.
"Will you four knock it off! I'm trying to eat here," exclaimed Sirius pushing his plate away from him.
"Oh shut up," said Liz, throwing him a disgusted look from across the table.
"He's just upset cause his little girlfriend is not here yet," laughed Lily. Sirius shot her a dirty look.
"No, I'm annoyed because I'm trying to enjoy a decent meal here and you four are making me sick with your flirting." Lily and Liz rolled their eyes and tried to suppress grins.
"But speaking of my lovely lady, where is she?" asked Sirius looking around. Lily and Liz shrugged and went back to eating.
A few minutes later, a loud bang disrupted half of the Great Hall from eating. A sixth year Hufflepuff boy, who Lily recognized as Bobby Leonard burst through the doors and sprinted over to his table. Lily noticed that he was holding his left hand awkwardly and he was sporting a black eye.
"What the bloody hell?" said James, standing up to see what was going on. All heads were turned towards the door as a very angry Faith entered the Great Hall.
"LET THAT BE A LESSON FOR YOU, YOU SLIMLY LITTLE MAGGOT! THE NEXT TIME YOU TRY AND GRAB MY ASS I'LL MAKE SURE YOU'LL NEVER BE ABLE TO USE THAT HAND AGAIN!" bellowed Faith, glaring at the terrified looking boy.
A few people in the Great Hall began to laugh, as others looked annoyed at the intrusion on their lunch. Faith stormed over to the Gryffindor table and threw herself down next to Liz.
"Um, was there a problem?" asked Lily, trying not to grin.
"Yeah! That ignorant, stupid excuse of a human being decided to make good on a dare and grab my ass!" shouted Faith looking at her friends in pure disgust. "What the idiots didn't realize was that they were talking so loud that I could hear them halfway down the hall! So when I heard him approach, I grabbed his hand and twisted it and gave the little asshole a black eye!" Faith grabbed at a plate full of sandwiches and moodily stuffed the corner of one into her mouth.
"That's my girl," said Sirius, beaming at her proudly. She gave him an I'm- not-in-the-mood-right-now look and turned her gaze on Lily.
"And to think I was in such a good mood before I came here," said Faith, pulling out a piece of paper from her pocket and slamming it down in front of Lily. Lily picked it up and began to read it. James and Sirius leaned closer to get a better look.
"It looks like an application for Auror Academy," said Sirius a line forming in his forehead as he skimmed the paper. "What are you doing with this?"
"Well genius," said Faith sarcastically, "From the looks of it, I AM applying to Auror Academy." She rolled her eyes and looked back at Lily. "I just came from McGonagall's office. This is the form that I have to fill out in order to enter into the program."
"What program?" asked Sirius, looking at Faith concerned.
"The Advanced Auror Program," said Faith annoyed. "Where I'll become an Auror a year earlier than everyone else. Didn't you listen to a word I said last night?"
"I was a little preoccupied, love," said Sirius sarcastically; a large grin covering his face. James and Remus looked at him inquiringly as Peter stared from Sirius to Faith with his mouth open. Lily and Liz tried to suppress their urges to laugh but failed dismally.
"ANYWAY," said Faith clearing her throat, "I have to fill this out and then I have to wait for them to review my application. McGonagall said that I have nothing to worry about and that I should hear back by the first of the year if I send it in by the end of the week."
"That's wonderful," said Liz beaming at Faith.
"You'll make an excellent Auror," Remus agreed.
"Thank you," said Faith ignoring Sirius's skeptically look. "I'm glad at least you support me."
"Yes, thank you for encouraging her to go into a career where the average life expectancy now a days is twenty years old," retorted Sirius, glaring at Remus and Liz.
"No, it's actually twenty-one," said Faith coldly, glaring at Sirius. "But I'm hoping to break that record."
"Anyway," said Lily trying to take the tension out of the air as Sirius and Faith continued to glare at each other. "Did everyone see that Hogsmeade is this coming weekend?"
"I know! I can't wait," said Liz, beaming at Remus. Remus shifted uncomfortably in his seat. As he brushed a piece of hair out of his eyes, Lily noticed how tired he looked. His eyes seemed saddened and there were a few premature wrinkles around them. He cleared his throat and turned his gaze upon Liz.
"Um, about Hogsmeade," he began, choosing his words carefully. "I'm afraid that I have to go home this weekend. I received a letter from my mum this morning and she isn't doing so well. I have to leave after lessons on Friday and I won't return until Sunday night."
"Oh," said Liz trying not to let her disappointment show on her face. "Well, I understand. There is always next month." She tried to smile but her eyes gave away her disappointment.
"I promise I'll make it up to you when I get back," said Remus hastily, grabbing her hand. "We'll do something special, just the two of us."
"Don't worry about it," said Liz, smiling slightly. "I understand. You told me from the beginning that your mum was sick and that sometimes you have to leave to see her. It's only Hogsmeade." She gave Remus's hand a little squeeze. "The important thing is that your mum is alright."
"Yeah," said Remus quietly.
James could tell that Remus hated lying to her. He knew how he felt. James didn't know what he was going to say to Lily this Saturday when he showed up to Hogsmeade utterly exhausted from staying out all night running around with his mates. As much as he didn't want to keep anything from her James knew that he had to keep his secret from Lily. The four boys had made a pact years ago that their secret would never be shared with anyone and would die with them.
"Well it looks like we'll have to keep you company, Liz," said Faith. "That is if you don't mind being in such obnoxious company." She looked right at Sirius and gave him a sarcastic smile.
"Oh come on Faith, don't say that about Lily and James," grinned Sirius, clasping James on the back.
"Thanks guys," laughed Liz. "I can't hardly wait."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Friday night crept upon Lily in a blink of an eye. Before she knew it, she was patrolling the hallway once again with James.
"James, am I keeping you from something?" asked Lily politely.
"Of course not, what are you talking about?" said James grinning at her.
"Well it's just that that is the twentieth time you have checked your watch in the past hour and a half," said Lily nodding towards his left wrist. "Do you have somewhere else you have to be?"
"The only place I want to be is back in the common room," said James grabbing her around the waist from behind and kissing her neck quickly.
"Then will you stop checking your watch," giggled Lily, turning around and grabbing his hands. "You are starting to make me nervous."
"That makes you nervous?" asked James as his face lit up with mischief. Lily smiled and nodded. "Then what about if I did this."
James released Lily's hands and lunged at her. Lily shrieked out of surprise as James grabbed her around her back and legs. He tipped her sideways and held her so that she was off the ground and lying in his arms. She laughed as she flung her arms around his neck.
"How's that?" asked James grinning as he stood there holding Lily.
"Put me down, you nutter," laughed Lily.
"Now that is not very nice, Miss Evans," said James grinning at her. "You are in no position to be demanding anything, but if it's down you want, then down you'll get."
James threw her up into the air a couple of inches and caught her a foot above the ground.
"James, you are not funny," laughed Lily as he did it again.
"Oh, I'm not," said James lifting her chest level again. "Then is this funny?" Lily laughed hysterically as James spun her around and around.
"James, stop! I think I'm going to be sick!" laughed Lily, closing her eyes tight to stop the spinning images that flashed before her.
"Not until you take it back," said James loudly.
"What is the meaning of this!" James stopped twirling Lily and they came face to face with a very unamused Professor McGonagall. "Mr. Potter, put Miss Evans down!" James tipped Lily onto her feet and they both stood there, trying not to laugh as they looked at Professor McGonagall.
"Why Professor, fancy seeing you here," said James, giving her a charming smile. "Miss Evans and I were just........."
"Save your excuses for someone else, Mr. Potter," said Professor McGonagall shortly. "Need I remind you that you two are the school's heads. It is your responsibility to act as role models for the entire school, not to act like a bunch of first years on a sugar kick."
"Yes Professor," said Lily, looking at the floor and trying to hide her embarrassment. "We are truly sorry for acting so immature. We will act more like responsible role models from this point forward."
"I hope so Miss Evans or I will be forced to consult with Professor Dumbledore about whether or not you two can handle the responsibility." She looked from James to Lily surveying them both skeptically. "Now, if you are mature enough to handle the rest of your duties, I suggest that you get on with them."
"Yes, Professor," said Lily and James in unison. Professor McGonagall gave them one last stern look and headed down the hall. As soon as she rounded the corner, they both let out all of their contained laughter.
"Good one, Potter, way to get us in trouble," laughed Lily punching him in the arm lightly.
"Me? You are the one that couldn't keep your voice down, Evans," laughed James.
"Whatever," said Lily, straightening up and adjusting her head badge. "Come on, let's go and be responsible role models."
"What, like this?" said James, straightening up and trying very hard to look distinguished.
"Maybe not quite like that," smiled Lily; shaking her head. "You look ridiculous."
"Well I'm trying to look like a responsible Head Boy," said James, strutting next to her. "You know, like your mate Alexander Frey." James let out a short laugh and began running down the hall away from Lily.
"Oh! You're going to get it!" laughed Lily running after James.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Lily beat James to the portrait hole. She laughed the password and burst through the door leading into the Gryffindor common room. The common room was fairly empty, except for a few of the older students who were studying for N.E.W.T.s or O.W.L.s. Lily turned around and waited for James to come through. But after a minute of waiting he still had not showed up. Lily walked back over to the portrait hole. She knew that he was only a few feet behind her when she ran in here. The portrait door opened and she stuck her head out.
"James?" she asked, looking up and down the hall.
"Gotcha!" shouted James popping out from behind the portrait door and causing Lily to let out a surprised scream.
"Don't do that to me!" she laughed as James put his arm around her and they walked into the common room.
"Honey, I'm home!" called James as he stood on the last step leading into the common room. "Where is everyone?"
"Probably upstairs," said Lily looking around as well.
"Oh well," said James leading Lily over to a couch by the fire. He sat at one end and Lily sat next to him, leaning her head onto his shoulder. "What do you want to do tomorrow?" he asked throwing his arm around her shoulders.
"Well, I do have to go get some more ink at some point tomorrow, but other than that I don't really care," said Lily gazing into the fire. "We don't have to chaperone, thank Merlin."
"How about going to Madame Puddifoot's?" asked James grinning. Lily turned her head and looked up at him.
"You are just asking to be cursed tonight aren't you?" said Lily, the corners of her mouth twitching.
"Just keep it above the belt, love," smirked James. Lily laughed as she made herself more comfortable. James casually glanced at his watch. 11:06. He had about forty-minutes before he had to leave.
It was a half an hour before shouting disrupted Lily and James's comfortable evening. The portrait door banged open and two familiar voices were shouting as they entered the common room.
"For Merlin's sake, do you want to wake up half of the bloody school!" shouted Sirius as he stormed in after Faith.
"Oh I'm sorry! Am I being too aggressive for you? Should I act more like a timid woman who is afraid of her own shadow?" shouted Faith as she turned on Sirius. "That is what you want after all isn't it?"
"That's not what I said!" shouted Sirius right back at her, his temper rising just as fast as Faith's. "You're twisting my words around completely!" Lily and James sat up and looked over the top of the couch to see Faith and Sirius standing several feet apart from each other, both red in the face.
"Sirius, I am not going to give up everything I've ever wanted and worked for because it makes you uncomfortable! If you want someone who is completely content on being a housewitch, than you need to chase someone else!" yelled Faith glaring at Sirius. "For crying out loud, I don't know why you are getting all upset over this anyway! It's not like we are together or something!"
"And whose fault is that, love?" yelled Sirius right back. "You know how I feel about you and you are the one that can't make up your mind and trust me! Have I given anyone else so much as a single glance this year? Have you seen me with any other girl this year, other than you? What more do I have to do to prove to you that I want to be with you? Just say it and I'll do it!" Faith stood there for a moment, shaking her head in disgust.
"You can let me decide what I want to do with my life instead of trying to run it for me!" yelled Faith. "I already have a dominating father Sirius! I don't need another man in my life telling me what I should do with it!"
"I'm sorry if I don't want to see you end up six feet under in two years," yelled Sirius. "But if that makes me a bad person in your book than I guess I am. But I'll tell you one thing, if that's what you think than you are bloody mad!"
Faith's eyes narrowed into black slits. She pulled out her wand and sent a jet of pink light straight at Sirius. Lily and James looked down at a potbelly pig occupying the space where Sirius was only seconds before. It looked up at Faith with a nasty expression.
"There that's more like it," said Faith, putting her wand away. "Have fun finding someone to turn you back!" She turned on her heel and slammed the girl's door shut.
Lily and James looked at each other before sliding off the couch. James walked over to the pig.
"Have a good night?" he asked standing in front of the pig. The pig oinked loudly and James pulled out his wand. A flash of green light later and an infuriated Sirius emerged in front of him.
"She cursed me!" he shouted. "Oh she better just wait!" Sirius shook his head angrily at the girl's door.
"I think I'm going to turn in," said Lily hastily to James. "I think its better if we all call it a night, don't you?" James nodded and kissed Lily goodnight. Lily smiled politely at Sirius before disappearing up the stairs.
"What the bloody hell was that all about?" asked James, turning to look at Sirius.
"She's mad!" said Sirius shortly. "Well I can tell you one thing; she'll make a good Auror. She thinks everyone is out to get her!" Sirius shook his head, as if to rid his brain of the past few minutes. "What time is it? I need to get out of here."
"Time to go and grab Peter," said James. He clasped his friend on the back and gave him an apologetic smile, before dashing up stairs to grab Peter and his most treasured possessions.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Lily walked up the stairs quietly. She could hear Liz's voice ask what was going on as she approached her door. She opened the door to see Faith lying on her back on her bed with her hands over her eyes.
"Hi guys," said Lily cautiously as she shut the door behind her. "Want to talk?"
"Men are ignorant, stupid gits!" cried Faith, still lying on her bed. Lily walked over and took a seat on Faith's bed. Liz looked at her with raised eyebrows.
"Is everything alright?" asked Liz looking concerned at Faith. Faith sat up and removed her hands from her eyes to reveal that they were a bright shade of red.
"Can you two tell me something?" asked Faith, staring at the wall ahead of her. "Why do I always fall for the same type of guy?"
"What are you talking about?" asked Liz, moving to sit on the end of Faith's bed.
"Why do I always fall for the guy that doesn't want me to be anything more than a housewitch," she looked at her friends for an answer. "I mean Will didn't like the fact that I wanted to be an Auror. That's why we broke up. I refused to give up what I wanted most in the world for him and he said that I wasn't worth his time. All he wanted me to be was a trophy for him to display around."
"I didn't know that, Faith," said Lily quietly. "But, you don't want to be with a guy who wants you to give up what you really want anyway. That's not how it's supposed to be." Faith nodded her head.
"I know that, Lils," she wiped her eyes. "You know, after Will broke up with me, I promised myself that I would never fall for a guy like him again; someone who was charming and handsome and exceedingly arrogant. And look what I did, I went and fell for Sirius Black, the poster child of those things."
"I don't know Sirius that well, Faith, but I genuinely think that he is just concerned about you. I don't think he wants you to give up those things, but he wants you to be careful. I mean let's face it; with everything that's going on, we all are concerned about one another's futures. It's just that you are going into a field where you directly confront those dangers on a daily basis. We all are concerned about you," said Lily. "Liz and I know that this is what you want, but that doesn't mean that we aren't concerned for your safety."
"Believe it or not, we actually want you around us," said Liz jokingly. Faith gave a small smile and wiped her eyes again.
"Thanks guys," said Faith, straightening up and collecting herself. "Anyone up for a game of cards?"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Sirius was still fuming when James came back downstairs with Peter. The common room had emptied out mostly due to the argument between Sirius and Faith. James unfolded his invisibility cloak and handed the map to Sirius. The three boys huddled close together in their usual configuration that had become accustomed to them over the years and James threw the cloak over them. Sirius checked the map and gave the all clear. Quickly and quietly the boys made their way to their secret passage outside of the castle. Peter transfigured quickly and made his way over to the Whomping Willow. James pulled the cloak off and stashed it in its usual hiding spot in the bushes.
"Sirius," said James grabbing his arm firmly, before Sirius could transform. "I know that you're angry right now, but promise me that you won't do anything reckless tonight alright?" Sirius glared at James for a moment as if he was going to argue, but he took a deep breath and nodded. James gave him an appreciative smile and they both transformed.
The Whomping Willow had frozen and the secret passage had opened. Wormtail had just disappeared through it as Padfoot and Prongs quickly ran towards the opening from the bushes. The passageway was cold and damp. It smelled like wet dirt, which was usual for this time of year. Prongs made sure that he walked with his head bent low so he wouldn't scrap his antlers on the ceiling. The tunnels' end approached quickly and Padfoot jumped up and turned the knob of the door leading into the Shrieking Shack. The three boys could hear Moony growling and snarling from close by inside.
Padfoot pushed the door open and sprang inside. Immediately he was pounced upon by Moony. They wrestled on the floor as Prongs and Wormtail entered into the dark and dirty livingroom of the old shack. Moony and Padfoot wrestled around the living room, crashing into broken pieces of furniture and into walls which caused dust to saturate the air. Peter squeaked loudly as the two wrestling animals crashed into a piece of table that he had perched himself on. Prongs pawed the ground loudly to get their attention. Immediately the dog leapt off the werewolf and ran over to the door. The werewolf let out a blood-chilling howl and followed the dog. Wormtail jumped up onto Prong's back and together all four of them left the shack. Prongs could feel the Whomping Willow freeze as they approached the tunnel. The four animals walked out of the tunnel and headed straight into the forest.
In the forest, they played freely. Padfoot and Moony chased several different animals out of their way as they ran around the trees and bushes towards Hogsmeade. As they neared Hogsmeade, Prongs ran ahead to check out if it was coast was clear. Finding that the village was dark and empty, he ran back to get Padfoot and Moony. Together the boys walked the streets of the village. Wormtail jumped down from Prong's back and headed towards a row of garbage cans lining one of the side alleys. The three boys roamed the streets quietly, sometimes stopping to check out windows or other sources of interest.
After half and hour of roaming the streets, Prongs led the other three up to the path near the end of Hogsmeade, leading to the mountains. As the walked and explored the path again, Prongs glanced back at the village. The Hogshead was the only source of dim light in the entire village. James could see shadows moving across the windows, but no one entered nor left the bar. A loud snarl turned his attention away from the town and back towards the mountains ahead of them.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The three boys entered their dormitory just as the sun rose. They were all exhausted and fell onto their beds without changing into their pajamas. James glanced at the clock before finally giving into sleep.
The boys slept almost entirely through breakfast. They woke up just in time to catch the last ten minutes. Lily, Liz and Faith were sitting at the table deep in conversation as the boys slowly approached.
"There you are," said Lily as James slunk into the seat next to her. "I thought that you three were going to miss breakfast." She leaned over and gave him a kiss good morning.
"No, we wouldn't miss out on free food," said James, he felt like his eyes and body weighed a hundred tons.
Apparently Sirius and Peter felt the same way. Sirius had his head propped up on his hand as he grabbed at various plates, not really paying too much attention to what he was grabbing. Peter sat at the table, staring blankly into a bowl of butter, as if willing it to spread itself onto a piece of toast that he had grabbed a few moments earlier.
"Can I get you anything?" asked Lily, wondering why they looked so tired.
"Coffee," all three of them said without much emotion. Lily, Liz and Faith looked at each other skeptically.
"Late night last night?" asked Lily as she poured coffee into three mugs. The three boys nodded, looking interested in their plates of food. "Do I want to know, what kept you up so late to the point that you would be like this, this morning?"
"Just guy stuff," said James, catching Lily's eye and nodding slightly to Sirius. Lily bit her lip and nodded in understanding. James felt relieved that he got out of that one without having to explain much. He'd have to remind Sirius to have a fight with Faith every month, which seemed like it wouldn't be too difficult.
"Are you still up for Hogsmeade?" asked Lily.
"Of course," said James through a mouthful of food. "Why wouldn't I be?"
"Just checking," shrugged Lily. "Do you want to go when you are finished?" James nodded his head as he took a long sip of hot, black coffee.
"Do you three want some Pepper-Up Potion?" asked Liz concerned as Peter's head practically fell into his bowl of cereal.
"You have some?" asked Sirius; just realizing that Liz was there.
"I'll be right back," laughed Liz as she got up to go to Gryffindor tower.
"I'll go with you," said Faith, wiping her mouth on her napkin and getting up to join Liz. Sirius's eyes followed her as she walked out the Great Hall with Liz. He snorted and stabbed at his food.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ** ** * * * * ** * * * *
Several cups of coffee and several tablespoons of Pepper-Up potion later, James was feeling like his old self again. He walked hand in hand with Lily as they made their way down the school's driveway leading to Hogsmeade. Faith was still not talking to Sirius and had decided to ignore his very existence by walking a head of them with Liz and Peter. This did not change as the six of them entered into the Three Broomsticks and took up a corner booth.
"Six butterbeers please," said James as the waitress bustled over to their booth. James slid his arm around Lily's shoulders as she leaned into his side.
"Could you believe Binns class yesterday?" said Liz from her seat next to the wall and beside Peter.
"Why do they force us to take that class?" asked James. "It is the worse class in the entire curriculum."
"I bet the real reason Binns bit it, was because he bored himself to death," laughed Sirius from across the table.
"It's not that bad," said Faith, looking at everyone but Sirius. "If you listen to what he is talking about you'll find that it is quite interesting."
"I could never understand what you found so interesting in history," said Lily shaking her head.
"I think you like punishment," said Sirius, trying to get Faith's attention.
"Is that a proposal?" asked Faith innocently. "Because if I really liked punishment I'd date you." Every at the table tried to muffle their laughter.
"You flatter yourself too much," said Sirius glaring at Faith.
"Here you are, six butterbeers," said the waitress, setting down her tray. "Twelve knuts please." Everyone paid their half and grabbed their drink.
"It is too bad Remus couldn't be here," said Liz absentmindedly. "I wish that his mum wasn't so sick." The boys took an extra long swig of their drinks and avoided any sort of eye contact. "I can't help feeling guilty that I'm here enjoying myself and he is at home."
"I'm sure that he is fine," James reassured her. A crowd of sixth year Ravenclaw girls noisily sat down at a table next to their booth. Sirius threw them a dashing grin a few of the girls smiled and giggled at him as they sat down. Lily could feel Faith tense up beside her.
"What is the matter with his mum anyway?" asked Lily.
"I don't know," Liz shrugged. "He never really told me."
"So, anywhere special you guys want to go?" asked James, trying hard to switch the subject.
"I could think of a few places," said Sirius, nodding and smiling at a blonde haired Ravenclaw that Lily recognized as Rebecca Saffonti. The girl smiled coyly back as she turned her attention to her giggling girlfriends.
"I'm outta here," said Faith draining her drink and getting up.
"Where are you going?" asked Lily concerned.
"I'm not going to waste my Hogsmeade trip by sitting here." Faith said, slamming her drink down on the table and walking away.
"What's that all about?" asked Peter, as Lily glared at Sirius who seemed quite amused by the whole thing.
"I'll be right back," said Lily as she slid out from under James's arm and to the end of the booth.
Lily noticed that Faith had stopped at the Ravenclaw table and said something that only the table could hear. All the girls turned and looked at Sirius with horror. Faith straightened up and smiled with immense satisfaction at Sirius. She turned on her heel and marched out of the pub. Lily walked outside to find Faith standing in the street fuming.
"Are you okay?" she asked as she approached Faith. Faith turned to face her.
"What an arrogant, pigheaded git!" exclaimed Faith, hurt filling her eyes. "I'm so mad right now that I could scream!"
"You can't let him get to you like that," said Lily bracingly. "He's only doing it to make you jealous."
"What did you tell them?" asked Liz, leaping down the steps from the Three Broomsticks and hurrying over to Lily and Faith. "Those Ravenclaw girls got up and sat down at the opposite side of the bar whispering something about not wanting to catch something." A wicked smile spread across Faith's face.
"Oh nothing," she said pleasantly. "Just that Sirius has this horrible contagious rash all over his, hmm, you know," she pointed towards the ground, "that he caught from having too many playmates." Liz let out a loud laugh as she shook her head in disbelief.
"Faith, that's horrible," said Lily a smile creeping over her face. "But I have to admit; that is brilliant."
"Not like it matters," said Faith moodily. "I know that you have to get back to James, so I'm going to go wander around."
"I'm sure he'll understand," said Lily. "He probably wants to spend sometime with his friends anyway." Faith smiled appreciatively and the girls began to walk away from the pub. "You know, I've always wondered what was down here," said Faith nodded towards a street leading from the main road."
"Just more shops I think," said Liz. "Want to check it out?" The girls nodded and began to walk down the street.
The girls chatted as they looked from store window to store window.
"Who would buy that?" asked Lily looking at a strange silver object in one of the windows. "It looks like something that was used in medieval torture chambers."
"I think it was," said Liz looking at it apprehensively. A bunch of muffled footsteps grew louder from behind the girls. They didn't pay any attention to it, since more than half of the school was out wandering around the streets of Hogsmeade.
"Look at that one," said Faith, pointing to a very pointed and sharp looking object. "Is that a potato peeler?" The girls laughed and continued looking in the window.
As Lily looked around at the objects, she gasped as she caught the reflections of several dark hooded figures standing behind them. She reached into her robes for her wand, but blacked out as she felt the hot jab of a curse hit her in the back.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Where did they go?" asked James as he, Sirius and Peter emerged from the Three Broomsticks.
"Who cares," said Sirius moodily, kicking the dirt road. "She's down right lucky that she isn't here right now. I can't believe she said that about me. Did you see the way that that whole table just scattered away from me?"
"Hell hath no fury like a woman's scorn," said Peter, clasping Sirius on the back.
"Shut up, Wormtail," said Sirius shrugging off his friend's hand. "You sound like a bleeming idiot." Peter shoved his hands in his pockets and sulked at the ground.
"Well, I'm going to find Lily. If you two don't want to join me than don't," said James irritably as he started walking towards the end of the road.
"Well once you find her, can we go to Zonko's?" asked Sirius annoyed, but walking next to him. "Actually I hope we find her. Cause where she is, that witch is. I'd like to have a few words with her about her mouth."
"Sirius, why don't you just apologize and get it over with?" said James, looking inside store windows for a glimpse of red hair. "You're absolutely mad over the girl. Just say you are sorry and that you didn't mean it."
"I have nothing to apologize for," said Sirius, casually looking around. "I wasn't the one who turned her into a pig! But I'm telling you now, if I get a chance she's going to be .......... Prongs?"
James had just stopped dead in his tracks. He squinted his eyes as he stared into a side street. Three girls were lying in the street, obviously unconscious. James's eyes were quickly drawn to the frock of red hair spread around one of the girls closest to the store window.
"Oy, what's the matter?" called Sirius as James broke out into a run down the street. James ran over to Lily. She was lying unconscious on her back in the middle of the street.
"No, this isn't happening!" he thought to himself. He knelt down to check if she was alive. He held his breath as he felt for a pulse in her wrist.
"What the bloody hell!" said Sirius as he and Peter ran up next to James; horrified at the sight they saw before them.
James let out a relieved breath as he found a heartbeat. He picked Lily's upper body up off the ground and brushed her hair out of her face. Her neck dangled loosely in his arms. James looked over at Sirius. He was kneeling over Faith, hastily checking for some sign of life.
"Come on, love! Don't do this to me," he was muttering under his breath as he felt her neck for a pulse. "She's breathing!" he exclaimed looking at James in relief.
"Peter check Liz!" James shouted at him. Peter didn't move. Instead he stood above Liz and stared horrified at the shop window.
"Peter! Are you deaf!" called Sirius pushing past Peter and bending down over Liz. "She's alright. Peter what the hell is the matter with you?" said Sirius following Peter's gaze.
"What the........." said James looking up at the store window. In flaming letters, etched into the store window was a sentence.
"MUDBLOODS AND BLOODTRATIORS BE WARNED"
"Who would have done this?" asked Peter, staring at the sign with his mouth open.
"One guess," said Sirius angrily up at the window. James felt the anger rising up from the pit of his stomach and into his face.
"DAMN THEM!" he shouted angrily. He looked down at Lily. There was a bruise forming on her forehead and her face was covered with scrapes. "Come on, we need to get them back to Hogwarts." * * * * * * * * * * * * ** * * * * * * ** * * * * * * * * *
Vampchick001 – I'll buy you a box of thin mints, why not? I have to agree that goats are really evil. Every time I see one all I can think about is that scene from Heidi where one nails Shirley Temple in the butt. People laugh cause I walk around petting zoos with my ass covered. Oh well, they won't be laughing when it happens to them will they! Anyway, thank you for the awesome reviews! I can't wait to see how you like the next couple of ones.
Padfootlet – I'll buy you cookies! I just need to kidnap a Girl Scout so I don't have to pay for them, mwwuuuahhahhahaa. I have so many good ideas for Petunia's wedding. I can't wait for you to read it! So please keep the hamster army at bay! Thank you for all of the reviews that you have sent it! You know that I always look forward to reading what you have to say! Please keep it up!
MoonyOverMoony – Claire, I know exactly how you feel. I always loved James, but then I loved Remus in the third book. Then in the fourth and fifth, I fell in love with Sirius. Damn JK Rowling for making such manly characters! I haven't read Lily Evans: A History yet, but I'm going to read it as soon as I have some free time at the end of the month. I'm so glad that you love what I've written so far. Thank you for all of your awesome reviews and keep sending them in! I love hearing from you!
Sproxkkk – Hehehehe, Bellatrix is so wonderfully evil. You're going to love this chapter hehehehee. With the Sirius and Faith relationship; let's just say that you are going to get really frustrated with them. I'm sorry, but at least I'm buying you a box of cookies for it. Thanks for all of your reviews over the past 15 chapters! Please continue to review cause I love reading your reviews!
Flyingwind33 – Okay, this is probably going to make me sound really dumb, but what is a p*e** o**? I've been racking my brain and I can only come up with press off and I know that's not it. Hehehehe I can't wait for you to read about Petunia's wedding *evil laugh continues. You will enjoy it, I promise! Thank you for all of your wonderful reviews! I get so happy when I see your name above the review! Please continue to send them in and I will continue writing.
Jctigerwolf4e/Ljstagflower4e – How dare you go off and have a life! I'm insulted! I'm just kidding! I hope that you have fun! Thanks for all of your reviews, since day one! You are awesome and I love your sense of humor. Please keep reviewing and I will keep writing.
Aimee- Petunia's wedding is going to be a riot. I can't wait to write it! But unfortunately I have to write up until then, so I'll try to hurry it up. I don't know if Faith and Sirius are going to get down at James's Party. I mean, after all this is a PG-13 rating and I don't want them to look like complete sluts *evil grin. Thanks for your reviews and I hope that you keep sending them in!
JuLia- You are so sweet! Thank you for your lovely review! I can't wait to write Petunia's wedding. I know that you guys will be rolling on the floor. Hopefully. Thank you for reviewing and please continue to review!
Sammy Solo – Sammy Sammy Sammy! I glad that you liked the American mark. I couldn't help myself; I had to throw it in there. I had to make Faith an American because I think we are sort of snubbed by the Harry Potter world lol. I'm glad that you like Lily and James relationship. I don't want to make it all lovey-dovey and have people vomiting; cause real relationships aren't like that. You'll find out a little more about Faith and Sirius in this chapter. I hope you don't want to kill me after reading it though *evil grin. Chocolate chip cookies are on the way! Thanks for all of your reviews! I always look so forward to reading what you have to say! You always make me smile! Please keep reading and reviewing and I'll keep writing.
Swishy Willow Wand – Thank you for all of your reviews. I'm so glad that you like my story and I hope that you will continue to read and review it!
Tomboy7439- I would hate to be the reason for anyone to become traumatized. I can just see that lawsuit coming. Anyway, thank you for reviewing! I hope that you continue to read and review my story!
Here's the disclaimer: From the desk of Spanky the evil Hedgehog:
Due to the over abundance of demand for thin mints and chocolate chip cookies, I have Stephanie slaving away in the kitchen to make them. It was a sneaky trick for her to put that little promise into her story. Her attempt to drive me out by trying to bankrupt my operation with cookies has made me angry and therefore will be taken out on you, the readers. Even though Stephanie and Spanky EvilWorld Corporation do not own Harry Potter or anything Harry Potter related, we have decided to make this an extra long chapter. I hope that you all loose your desire for cookies as you painfully read this chapter. Mwwuuuaaahhhahhahahahahaha! Enjoy the story hahahahahaha! *cough, cough, cough Hmm.....meal worm.
Chapter 16: Wicked Acts
"Great," said Remus, putting down his lunch, "You're telling me that the next Hogsmeade trip is this weekend?" Peter nodded his head as he shoved a sandwich into his mouth.
"It said on the board this morning," he said through a mouthful of food. Remus let out a long disappointed sigh and pushed his food away from him.
"That's just bloody brilliant," said Remus, rubbing his forehead as if he had a headache. "Why does the full moon have to be on this weekend?"
"I'm sorry, mate," said James genuinely. "If you want we won't go either." Sirius looked sideways at James before nodding his head in agreement.
"James is right. If you can't go, then we won't either," said Sirius. "We'll make up some excuse, like Peter caught gonorrhea and we all have to be checked."
"No it's alright," said Remus with a small smile. "But thanks away for the thought."
"Well, we will go to Hogsmeade later than," said James. "It will be fun."
"I just feel awful because I promised Liz that we would go together on the next trip," said Remus gloomily. "She's going to feel awful when I tell her that I can't go."
"What are you going to tell her?" asked Sirius yawning widely.
"I already have that covered. I told Liz that I have a very ill mother and that I usually am called out of school at least once a month to go and make sure she is alright," said Remus dully. "I guess I'll have to tell her that I have to go this weekend."
James and Sirius nodded their heads in agreement. James always felt bad for Remus. He hated that his best friend had to lie to everyone he knew to hide his illness. James felt that it wasn't fair for someone so young that have to pay the rest of his life for something that wasn't even his fault. He wished deeply that the wizarding world did not have such a fear about werewolves and that his friend could be open about his illness without facing repercussion for it.
"She'll understand, mate. She is a nice girl," said James giving him an encouraging smile. "And speaking of the devil." Lily and Liz came bounding towards the Gryffindor table.
"What a class!" exclaimed Lily as she took a seat next to James. "I absolutely love Ancient Runes. They are so fascinating!" She looked around the table searching for something appetizing.
"Who knew that Stonehenge was actually an election method used by giants for deciding who would become the next chief," said Liz taking a seat next to Remus. "Amazing." She leaned over and kissed his cheek.
"Good class?" asked James, pouring Lily some pumpkin juice.
"Excellent," said Lily, choosing a piece of pizza. "Ancient Runes are so interesting. I can't wait until I can go out and study them for myself." James laughed and hugged Lily around the waist.
"My little explorer," he said, kissing her on the cheek quickly. Sirius made retching noises next to James.
"Will you four knock it off! I'm trying to eat here," exclaimed Sirius pushing his plate away from him.
"Oh shut up," said Liz, throwing him a disgusted look from across the table.
"He's just upset cause his little girlfriend is not here yet," laughed Lily. Sirius shot her a dirty look.
"No, I'm annoyed because I'm trying to enjoy a decent meal here and you four are making me sick with your flirting." Lily and Liz rolled their eyes and tried to suppress grins.
"But speaking of my lovely lady, where is she?" asked Sirius looking around. Lily and Liz shrugged and went back to eating.
A few minutes later, a loud bang disrupted half of the Great Hall from eating. A sixth year Hufflepuff boy, who Lily recognized as Bobby Leonard burst through the doors and sprinted over to his table. Lily noticed that he was holding his left hand awkwardly and he was sporting a black eye.
"What the bloody hell?" said James, standing up to see what was going on. All heads were turned towards the door as a very angry Faith entered the Great Hall.
"LET THAT BE A LESSON FOR YOU, YOU SLIMLY LITTLE MAGGOT! THE NEXT TIME YOU TRY AND GRAB MY ASS I'LL MAKE SURE YOU'LL NEVER BE ABLE TO USE THAT HAND AGAIN!" bellowed Faith, glaring at the terrified looking boy.
A few people in the Great Hall began to laugh, as others looked annoyed at the intrusion on their lunch. Faith stormed over to the Gryffindor table and threw herself down next to Liz.
"Um, was there a problem?" asked Lily, trying not to grin.
"Yeah! That ignorant, stupid excuse of a human being decided to make good on a dare and grab my ass!" shouted Faith looking at her friends in pure disgust. "What the idiots didn't realize was that they were talking so loud that I could hear them halfway down the hall! So when I heard him approach, I grabbed his hand and twisted it and gave the little asshole a black eye!" Faith grabbed at a plate full of sandwiches and moodily stuffed the corner of one into her mouth.
"That's my girl," said Sirius, beaming at her proudly. She gave him an I'm- not-in-the-mood-right-now look and turned her gaze on Lily.
"And to think I was in such a good mood before I came here," said Faith, pulling out a piece of paper from her pocket and slamming it down in front of Lily. Lily picked it up and began to read it. James and Sirius leaned closer to get a better look.
"It looks like an application for Auror Academy," said Sirius a line forming in his forehead as he skimmed the paper. "What are you doing with this?"
"Well genius," said Faith sarcastically, "From the looks of it, I AM applying to Auror Academy." She rolled her eyes and looked back at Lily. "I just came from McGonagall's office. This is the form that I have to fill out in order to enter into the program."
"What program?" asked Sirius, looking at Faith concerned.
"The Advanced Auror Program," said Faith annoyed. "Where I'll become an Auror a year earlier than everyone else. Didn't you listen to a word I said last night?"
"I was a little preoccupied, love," said Sirius sarcastically; a large grin covering his face. James and Remus looked at him inquiringly as Peter stared from Sirius to Faith with his mouth open. Lily and Liz tried to suppress their urges to laugh but failed dismally.
"ANYWAY," said Faith clearing her throat, "I have to fill this out and then I have to wait for them to review my application. McGonagall said that I have nothing to worry about and that I should hear back by the first of the year if I send it in by the end of the week."
"That's wonderful," said Liz beaming at Faith.
"You'll make an excellent Auror," Remus agreed.
"Thank you," said Faith ignoring Sirius's skeptically look. "I'm glad at least you support me."
"Yes, thank you for encouraging her to go into a career where the average life expectancy now a days is twenty years old," retorted Sirius, glaring at Remus and Liz.
"No, it's actually twenty-one," said Faith coldly, glaring at Sirius. "But I'm hoping to break that record."
"Anyway," said Lily trying to take the tension out of the air as Sirius and Faith continued to glare at each other. "Did everyone see that Hogsmeade is this coming weekend?"
"I know! I can't wait," said Liz, beaming at Remus. Remus shifted uncomfortably in his seat. As he brushed a piece of hair out of his eyes, Lily noticed how tired he looked. His eyes seemed saddened and there were a few premature wrinkles around them. He cleared his throat and turned his gaze upon Liz.
"Um, about Hogsmeade," he began, choosing his words carefully. "I'm afraid that I have to go home this weekend. I received a letter from my mum this morning and she isn't doing so well. I have to leave after lessons on Friday and I won't return until Sunday night."
"Oh," said Liz trying not to let her disappointment show on her face. "Well, I understand. There is always next month." She tried to smile but her eyes gave away her disappointment.
"I promise I'll make it up to you when I get back," said Remus hastily, grabbing her hand. "We'll do something special, just the two of us."
"Don't worry about it," said Liz, smiling slightly. "I understand. You told me from the beginning that your mum was sick and that sometimes you have to leave to see her. It's only Hogsmeade." She gave Remus's hand a little squeeze. "The important thing is that your mum is alright."
"Yeah," said Remus quietly.
James could tell that Remus hated lying to her. He knew how he felt. James didn't know what he was going to say to Lily this Saturday when he showed up to Hogsmeade utterly exhausted from staying out all night running around with his mates. As much as he didn't want to keep anything from her James knew that he had to keep his secret from Lily. The four boys had made a pact years ago that their secret would never be shared with anyone and would die with them.
"Well it looks like we'll have to keep you company, Liz," said Faith. "That is if you don't mind being in such obnoxious company." She looked right at Sirius and gave him a sarcastic smile.
"Oh come on Faith, don't say that about Lily and James," grinned Sirius, clasping James on the back.
"Thanks guys," laughed Liz. "I can't hardly wait."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Friday night crept upon Lily in a blink of an eye. Before she knew it, she was patrolling the hallway once again with James.
"James, am I keeping you from something?" asked Lily politely.
"Of course not, what are you talking about?" said James grinning at her.
"Well it's just that that is the twentieth time you have checked your watch in the past hour and a half," said Lily nodding towards his left wrist. "Do you have somewhere else you have to be?"
"The only place I want to be is back in the common room," said James grabbing her around the waist from behind and kissing her neck quickly.
"Then will you stop checking your watch," giggled Lily, turning around and grabbing his hands. "You are starting to make me nervous."
"That makes you nervous?" asked James as his face lit up with mischief. Lily smiled and nodded. "Then what about if I did this."
James released Lily's hands and lunged at her. Lily shrieked out of surprise as James grabbed her around her back and legs. He tipped her sideways and held her so that she was off the ground and lying in his arms. She laughed as she flung her arms around his neck.
"How's that?" asked James grinning as he stood there holding Lily.
"Put me down, you nutter," laughed Lily.
"Now that is not very nice, Miss Evans," said James grinning at her. "You are in no position to be demanding anything, but if it's down you want, then down you'll get."
James threw her up into the air a couple of inches and caught her a foot above the ground.
"James, you are not funny," laughed Lily as he did it again.
"Oh, I'm not," said James lifting her chest level again. "Then is this funny?" Lily laughed hysterically as James spun her around and around.
"James, stop! I think I'm going to be sick!" laughed Lily, closing her eyes tight to stop the spinning images that flashed before her.
"Not until you take it back," said James loudly.
"What is the meaning of this!" James stopped twirling Lily and they came face to face with a very unamused Professor McGonagall. "Mr. Potter, put Miss Evans down!" James tipped Lily onto her feet and they both stood there, trying not to laugh as they looked at Professor McGonagall.
"Why Professor, fancy seeing you here," said James, giving her a charming smile. "Miss Evans and I were just........."
"Save your excuses for someone else, Mr. Potter," said Professor McGonagall shortly. "Need I remind you that you two are the school's heads. It is your responsibility to act as role models for the entire school, not to act like a bunch of first years on a sugar kick."
"Yes Professor," said Lily, looking at the floor and trying to hide her embarrassment. "We are truly sorry for acting so immature. We will act more like responsible role models from this point forward."
"I hope so Miss Evans or I will be forced to consult with Professor Dumbledore about whether or not you two can handle the responsibility." She looked from James to Lily surveying them both skeptically. "Now, if you are mature enough to handle the rest of your duties, I suggest that you get on with them."
"Yes, Professor," said Lily and James in unison. Professor McGonagall gave them one last stern look and headed down the hall. As soon as she rounded the corner, they both let out all of their contained laughter.
"Good one, Potter, way to get us in trouble," laughed Lily punching him in the arm lightly.
"Me? You are the one that couldn't keep your voice down, Evans," laughed James.
"Whatever," said Lily, straightening up and adjusting her head badge. "Come on, let's go and be responsible role models."
"What, like this?" said James, straightening up and trying very hard to look distinguished.
"Maybe not quite like that," smiled Lily; shaking her head. "You look ridiculous."
"Well I'm trying to look like a responsible Head Boy," said James, strutting next to her. "You know, like your mate Alexander Frey." James let out a short laugh and began running down the hall away from Lily.
"Oh! You're going to get it!" laughed Lily running after James.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Lily beat James to the portrait hole. She laughed the password and burst through the door leading into the Gryffindor common room. The common room was fairly empty, except for a few of the older students who were studying for N.E.W.T.s or O.W.L.s. Lily turned around and waited for James to come through. But after a minute of waiting he still had not showed up. Lily walked back over to the portrait hole. She knew that he was only a few feet behind her when she ran in here. The portrait door opened and she stuck her head out.
"James?" she asked, looking up and down the hall.
"Gotcha!" shouted James popping out from behind the portrait door and causing Lily to let out a surprised scream.
"Don't do that to me!" she laughed as James put his arm around her and they walked into the common room.
"Honey, I'm home!" called James as he stood on the last step leading into the common room. "Where is everyone?"
"Probably upstairs," said Lily looking around as well.
"Oh well," said James leading Lily over to a couch by the fire. He sat at one end and Lily sat next to him, leaning her head onto his shoulder. "What do you want to do tomorrow?" he asked throwing his arm around her shoulders.
"Well, I do have to go get some more ink at some point tomorrow, but other than that I don't really care," said Lily gazing into the fire. "We don't have to chaperone, thank Merlin."
"How about going to Madame Puddifoot's?" asked James grinning. Lily turned her head and looked up at him.
"You are just asking to be cursed tonight aren't you?" said Lily, the corners of her mouth twitching.
"Just keep it above the belt, love," smirked James. Lily laughed as she made herself more comfortable. James casually glanced at his watch. 11:06. He had about forty-minutes before he had to leave.
It was a half an hour before shouting disrupted Lily and James's comfortable evening. The portrait door banged open and two familiar voices were shouting as they entered the common room.
"For Merlin's sake, do you want to wake up half of the bloody school!" shouted Sirius as he stormed in after Faith.
"Oh I'm sorry! Am I being too aggressive for you? Should I act more like a timid woman who is afraid of her own shadow?" shouted Faith as she turned on Sirius. "That is what you want after all isn't it?"
"That's not what I said!" shouted Sirius right back at her, his temper rising just as fast as Faith's. "You're twisting my words around completely!" Lily and James sat up and looked over the top of the couch to see Faith and Sirius standing several feet apart from each other, both red in the face.
"Sirius, I am not going to give up everything I've ever wanted and worked for because it makes you uncomfortable! If you want someone who is completely content on being a housewitch, than you need to chase someone else!" yelled Faith glaring at Sirius. "For crying out loud, I don't know why you are getting all upset over this anyway! It's not like we are together or something!"
"And whose fault is that, love?" yelled Sirius right back. "You know how I feel about you and you are the one that can't make up your mind and trust me! Have I given anyone else so much as a single glance this year? Have you seen me with any other girl this year, other than you? What more do I have to do to prove to you that I want to be with you? Just say it and I'll do it!" Faith stood there for a moment, shaking her head in disgust.
"You can let me decide what I want to do with my life instead of trying to run it for me!" yelled Faith. "I already have a dominating father Sirius! I don't need another man in my life telling me what I should do with it!"
"I'm sorry if I don't want to see you end up six feet under in two years," yelled Sirius. "But if that makes me a bad person in your book than I guess I am. But I'll tell you one thing, if that's what you think than you are bloody mad!"
Faith's eyes narrowed into black slits. She pulled out her wand and sent a jet of pink light straight at Sirius. Lily and James looked down at a potbelly pig occupying the space where Sirius was only seconds before. It looked up at Faith with a nasty expression.
"There that's more like it," said Faith, putting her wand away. "Have fun finding someone to turn you back!" She turned on her heel and slammed the girl's door shut.
Lily and James looked at each other before sliding off the couch. James walked over to the pig.
"Have a good night?" he asked standing in front of the pig. The pig oinked loudly and James pulled out his wand. A flash of green light later and an infuriated Sirius emerged in front of him.
"She cursed me!" he shouted. "Oh she better just wait!" Sirius shook his head angrily at the girl's door.
"I think I'm going to turn in," said Lily hastily to James. "I think its better if we all call it a night, don't you?" James nodded and kissed Lily goodnight. Lily smiled politely at Sirius before disappearing up the stairs.
"What the bloody hell was that all about?" asked James, turning to look at Sirius.
"She's mad!" said Sirius shortly. "Well I can tell you one thing; she'll make a good Auror. She thinks everyone is out to get her!" Sirius shook his head, as if to rid his brain of the past few minutes. "What time is it? I need to get out of here."
"Time to go and grab Peter," said James. He clasped his friend on the back and gave him an apologetic smile, before dashing up stairs to grab Peter and his most treasured possessions.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Lily walked up the stairs quietly. She could hear Liz's voice ask what was going on as she approached her door. She opened the door to see Faith lying on her back on her bed with her hands over her eyes.
"Hi guys," said Lily cautiously as she shut the door behind her. "Want to talk?"
"Men are ignorant, stupid gits!" cried Faith, still lying on her bed. Lily walked over and took a seat on Faith's bed. Liz looked at her with raised eyebrows.
"Is everything alright?" asked Liz looking concerned at Faith. Faith sat up and removed her hands from her eyes to reveal that they were a bright shade of red.
"Can you two tell me something?" asked Faith, staring at the wall ahead of her. "Why do I always fall for the same type of guy?"
"What are you talking about?" asked Liz, moving to sit on the end of Faith's bed.
"Why do I always fall for the guy that doesn't want me to be anything more than a housewitch," she looked at her friends for an answer. "I mean Will didn't like the fact that I wanted to be an Auror. That's why we broke up. I refused to give up what I wanted most in the world for him and he said that I wasn't worth his time. All he wanted me to be was a trophy for him to display around."
"I didn't know that, Faith," said Lily quietly. "But, you don't want to be with a guy who wants you to give up what you really want anyway. That's not how it's supposed to be." Faith nodded her head.
"I know that, Lils," she wiped her eyes. "You know, after Will broke up with me, I promised myself that I would never fall for a guy like him again; someone who was charming and handsome and exceedingly arrogant. And look what I did, I went and fell for Sirius Black, the poster child of those things."
"I don't know Sirius that well, Faith, but I genuinely think that he is just concerned about you. I don't think he wants you to give up those things, but he wants you to be careful. I mean let's face it; with everything that's going on, we all are concerned about one another's futures. It's just that you are going into a field where you directly confront those dangers on a daily basis. We all are concerned about you," said Lily. "Liz and I know that this is what you want, but that doesn't mean that we aren't concerned for your safety."
"Believe it or not, we actually want you around us," said Liz jokingly. Faith gave a small smile and wiped her eyes again.
"Thanks guys," said Faith, straightening up and collecting herself. "Anyone up for a game of cards?"
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Sirius was still fuming when James came back downstairs with Peter. The common room had emptied out mostly due to the argument between Sirius and Faith. James unfolded his invisibility cloak and handed the map to Sirius. The three boys huddled close together in their usual configuration that had become accustomed to them over the years and James threw the cloak over them. Sirius checked the map and gave the all clear. Quickly and quietly the boys made their way to their secret passage outside of the castle. Peter transfigured quickly and made his way over to the Whomping Willow. James pulled the cloak off and stashed it in its usual hiding spot in the bushes.
"Sirius," said James grabbing his arm firmly, before Sirius could transform. "I know that you're angry right now, but promise me that you won't do anything reckless tonight alright?" Sirius glared at James for a moment as if he was going to argue, but he took a deep breath and nodded. James gave him an appreciative smile and they both transformed.
The Whomping Willow had frozen and the secret passage had opened. Wormtail had just disappeared through it as Padfoot and Prongs quickly ran towards the opening from the bushes. The passageway was cold and damp. It smelled like wet dirt, which was usual for this time of year. Prongs made sure that he walked with his head bent low so he wouldn't scrap his antlers on the ceiling. The tunnels' end approached quickly and Padfoot jumped up and turned the knob of the door leading into the Shrieking Shack. The three boys could hear Moony growling and snarling from close by inside.
Padfoot pushed the door open and sprang inside. Immediately he was pounced upon by Moony. They wrestled on the floor as Prongs and Wormtail entered into the dark and dirty livingroom of the old shack. Moony and Padfoot wrestled around the living room, crashing into broken pieces of furniture and into walls which caused dust to saturate the air. Peter squeaked loudly as the two wrestling animals crashed into a piece of table that he had perched himself on. Prongs pawed the ground loudly to get their attention. Immediately the dog leapt off the werewolf and ran over to the door. The werewolf let out a blood-chilling howl and followed the dog. Wormtail jumped up onto Prong's back and together all four of them left the shack. Prongs could feel the Whomping Willow freeze as they approached the tunnel. The four animals walked out of the tunnel and headed straight into the forest.
In the forest, they played freely. Padfoot and Moony chased several different animals out of their way as they ran around the trees and bushes towards Hogsmeade. As they neared Hogsmeade, Prongs ran ahead to check out if it was coast was clear. Finding that the village was dark and empty, he ran back to get Padfoot and Moony. Together the boys walked the streets of the village. Wormtail jumped down from Prong's back and headed towards a row of garbage cans lining one of the side alleys. The three boys roamed the streets quietly, sometimes stopping to check out windows or other sources of interest.
After half and hour of roaming the streets, Prongs led the other three up to the path near the end of Hogsmeade, leading to the mountains. As the walked and explored the path again, Prongs glanced back at the village. The Hogshead was the only source of dim light in the entire village. James could see shadows moving across the windows, but no one entered nor left the bar. A loud snarl turned his attention away from the town and back towards the mountains ahead of them.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The three boys entered their dormitory just as the sun rose. They were all exhausted and fell onto their beds without changing into their pajamas. James glanced at the clock before finally giving into sleep.
The boys slept almost entirely through breakfast. They woke up just in time to catch the last ten minutes. Lily, Liz and Faith were sitting at the table deep in conversation as the boys slowly approached.
"There you are," said Lily as James slunk into the seat next to her. "I thought that you three were going to miss breakfast." She leaned over and gave him a kiss good morning.
"No, we wouldn't miss out on free food," said James, he felt like his eyes and body weighed a hundred tons.
Apparently Sirius and Peter felt the same way. Sirius had his head propped up on his hand as he grabbed at various plates, not really paying too much attention to what he was grabbing. Peter sat at the table, staring blankly into a bowl of butter, as if willing it to spread itself onto a piece of toast that he had grabbed a few moments earlier.
"Can I get you anything?" asked Lily, wondering why they looked so tired.
"Coffee," all three of them said without much emotion. Lily, Liz and Faith looked at each other skeptically.
"Late night last night?" asked Lily as she poured coffee into three mugs. The three boys nodded, looking interested in their plates of food. "Do I want to know, what kept you up so late to the point that you would be like this, this morning?"
"Just guy stuff," said James, catching Lily's eye and nodding slightly to Sirius. Lily bit her lip and nodded in understanding. James felt relieved that he got out of that one without having to explain much. He'd have to remind Sirius to have a fight with Faith every month, which seemed like it wouldn't be too difficult.
"Are you still up for Hogsmeade?" asked Lily.
"Of course," said James through a mouthful of food. "Why wouldn't I be?"
"Just checking," shrugged Lily. "Do you want to go when you are finished?" James nodded his head as he took a long sip of hot, black coffee.
"Do you three want some Pepper-Up Potion?" asked Liz concerned as Peter's head practically fell into his bowl of cereal.
"You have some?" asked Sirius; just realizing that Liz was there.
"I'll be right back," laughed Liz as she got up to go to Gryffindor tower.
"I'll go with you," said Faith, wiping her mouth on her napkin and getting up to join Liz. Sirius's eyes followed her as she walked out the Great Hall with Liz. He snorted and stabbed at his food.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ** ** * * * * ** * * * *
Several cups of coffee and several tablespoons of Pepper-Up potion later, James was feeling like his old self again. He walked hand in hand with Lily as they made their way down the school's driveway leading to Hogsmeade. Faith was still not talking to Sirius and had decided to ignore his very existence by walking a head of them with Liz and Peter. This did not change as the six of them entered into the Three Broomsticks and took up a corner booth.
"Six butterbeers please," said James as the waitress bustled over to their booth. James slid his arm around Lily's shoulders as she leaned into his side.
"Could you believe Binns class yesterday?" said Liz from her seat next to the wall and beside Peter.
"Why do they force us to take that class?" asked James. "It is the worse class in the entire curriculum."
"I bet the real reason Binns bit it, was because he bored himself to death," laughed Sirius from across the table.
"It's not that bad," said Faith, looking at everyone but Sirius. "If you listen to what he is talking about you'll find that it is quite interesting."
"I could never understand what you found so interesting in history," said Lily shaking her head.
"I think you like punishment," said Sirius, trying to get Faith's attention.
"Is that a proposal?" asked Faith innocently. "Because if I really liked punishment I'd date you." Every at the table tried to muffle their laughter.
"You flatter yourself too much," said Sirius glaring at Faith.
"Here you are, six butterbeers," said the waitress, setting down her tray. "Twelve knuts please." Everyone paid their half and grabbed their drink.
"It is too bad Remus couldn't be here," said Liz absentmindedly. "I wish that his mum wasn't so sick." The boys took an extra long swig of their drinks and avoided any sort of eye contact. "I can't help feeling guilty that I'm here enjoying myself and he is at home."
"I'm sure that he is fine," James reassured her. A crowd of sixth year Ravenclaw girls noisily sat down at a table next to their booth. Sirius threw them a dashing grin a few of the girls smiled and giggled at him as they sat down. Lily could feel Faith tense up beside her.
"What is the matter with his mum anyway?" asked Lily.
"I don't know," Liz shrugged. "He never really told me."
"So, anywhere special you guys want to go?" asked James, trying hard to switch the subject.
"I could think of a few places," said Sirius, nodding and smiling at a blonde haired Ravenclaw that Lily recognized as Rebecca Saffonti. The girl smiled coyly back as she turned her attention to her giggling girlfriends.
"I'm outta here," said Faith draining her drink and getting up.
"Where are you going?" asked Lily concerned.
"I'm not going to waste my Hogsmeade trip by sitting here." Faith said, slamming her drink down on the table and walking away.
"What's that all about?" asked Peter, as Lily glared at Sirius who seemed quite amused by the whole thing.
"I'll be right back," said Lily as she slid out from under James's arm and to the end of the booth.
Lily noticed that Faith had stopped at the Ravenclaw table and said something that only the table could hear. All the girls turned and looked at Sirius with horror. Faith straightened up and smiled with immense satisfaction at Sirius. She turned on her heel and marched out of the pub. Lily walked outside to find Faith standing in the street fuming.
"Are you okay?" she asked as she approached Faith. Faith turned to face her.
"What an arrogant, pigheaded git!" exclaimed Faith, hurt filling her eyes. "I'm so mad right now that I could scream!"
"You can't let him get to you like that," said Lily bracingly. "He's only doing it to make you jealous."
"What did you tell them?" asked Liz, leaping down the steps from the Three Broomsticks and hurrying over to Lily and Faith. "Those Ravenclaw girls got up and sat down at the opposite side of the bar whispering something about not wanting to catch something." A wicked smile spread across Faith's face.
"Oh nothing," she said pleasantly. "Just that Sirius has this horrible contagious rash all over his, hmm, you know," she pointed towards the ground, "that he caught from having too many playmates." Liz let out a loud laugh as she shook her head in disbelief.
"Faith, that's horrible," said Lily a smile creeping over her face. "But I have to admit; that is brilliant."
"Not like it matters," said Faith moodily. "I know that you have to get back to James, so I'm going to go wander around."
"I'm sure he'll understand," said Lily. "He probably wants to spend sometime with his friends anyway." Faith smiled appreciatively and the girls began to walk away from the pub. "You know, I've always wondered what was down here," said Faith nodded towards a street leading from the main road."
"Just more shops I think," said Liz. "Want to check it out?" The girls nodded and began to walk down the street.
The girls chatted as they looked from store window to store window.
"Who would buy that?" asked Lily looking at a strange silver object in one of the windows. "It looks like something that was used in medieval torture chambers."
"I think it was," said Liz looking at it apprehensively. A bunch of muffled footsteps grew louder from behind the girls. They didn't pay any attention to it, since more than half of the school was out wandering around the streets of Hogsmeade.
"Look at that one," said Faith, pointing to a very pointed and sharp looking object. "Is that a potato peeler?" The girls laughed and continued looking in the window.
As Lily looked around at the objects, she gasped as she caught the reflections of several dark hooded figures standing behind them. She reached into her robes for her wand, but blacked out as she felt the hot jab of a curse hit her in the back.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Where did they go?" asked James as he, Sirius and Peter emerged from the Three Broomsticks.
"Who cares," said Sirius moodily, kicking the dirt road. "She's down right lucky that she isn't here right now. I can't believe she said that about me. Did you see the way that that whole table just scattered away from me?"
"Hell hath no fury like a woman's scorn," said Peter, clasping Sirius on the back.
"Shut up, Wormtail," said Sirius shrugging off his friend's hand. "You sound like a bleeming idiot." Peter shoved his hands in his pockets and sulked at the ground.
"Well, I'm going to find Lily. If you two don't want to join me than don't," said James irritably as he started walking towards the end of the road.
"Well once you find her, can we go to Zonko's?" asked Sirius annoyed, but walking next to him. "Actually I hope we find her. Cause where she is, that witch is. I'd like to have a few words with her about her mouth."
"Sirius, why don't you just apologize and get it over with?" said James, looking inside store windows for a glimpse of red hair. "You're absolutely mad over the girl. Just say you are sorry and that you didn't mean it."
"I have nothing to apologize for," said Sirius, casually looking around. "I wasn't the one who turned her into a pig! But I'm telling you now, if I get a chance she's going to be .......... Prongs?"
James had just stopped dead in his tracks. He squinted his eyes as he stared into a side street. Three girls were lying in the street, obviously unconscious. James's eyes were quickly drawn to the frock of red hair spread around one of the girls closest to the store window.
"Oy, what's the matter?" called Sirius as James broke out into a run down the street. James ran over to Lily. She was lying unconscious on her back in the middle of the street.
"No, this isn't happening!" he thought to himself. He knelt down to check if she was alive. He held his breath as he felt for a pulse in her wrist.
"What the bloody hell!" said Sirius as he and Peter ran up next to James; horrified at the sight they saw before them.
James let out a relieved breath as he found a heartbeat. He picked Lily's upper body up off the ground and brushed her hair out of her face. Her neck dangled loosely in his arms. James looked over at Sirius. He was kneeling over Faith, hastily checking for some sign of life.
"Come on, love! Don't do this to me," he was muttering under his breath as he felt her neck for a pulse. "She's breathing!" he exclaimed looking at James in relief.
"Peter check Liz!" James shouted at him. Peter didn't move. Instead he stood above Liz and stared horrified at the shop window.
"Peter! Are you deaf!" called Sirius pushing past Peter and bending down over Liz. "She's alright. Peter what the hell is the matter with you?" said Sirius following Peter's gaze.
"What the........." said James looking up at the store window. In flaming letters, etched into the store window was a sentence.
"MUDBLOODS AND BLOODTRATIORS BE WARNED"
"Who would have done this?" asked Peter, staring at the sign with his mouth open.
"One guess," said Sirius angrily up at the window. James felt the anger rising up from the pit of his stomach and into his face.
"DAMN THEM!" he shouted angrily. He looked down at Lily. There was a bruise forming on her forehead and her face was covered with scrapes. "Come on, we need to get them back to Hogwarts." * * * * * * * * * * * * ** * * * * * * ** * * * * * * * * *