Hello! Hello! Hello! How are my favorite people in the world doing this
week? Well not a whole lot is happening with me and I am loving it!! Since
you are the smart people that I know you are, you can see that I have
updated!! (Chorus sings "Alleluia" in the background) I hope that you guys
like this chapter. I know that some of you are anxious for Petunia's
wedding and I promise that it will be coming up within the next few
chapters. I cannot wait to write it!
So I would like to give a huge thanks to everyone who has reviewed! I cannot believe that 23 of you reviewed this chapter! I wish that I could just hug all of you and really buy you a box of cookies. And to think that I almost did not continue writing this story in fear that it would not be liked. You all rock! I am so excited to see who the 200th reviewer is going to be. Maybe I will put that person in the next chapter of the story? Hmmm.........it is a plan, oh yes, it just may work. Anyway, I wanted to let you guys know that I have personally been sending out email to people's mailboxes when the new chapter is up. If you would like me to send you the update just email me at my email address listed in my profile (please put the subject along the lines of "Seventh Year Memories" or "Hey, it's so and so from fan fiction" so I don't delete it by accident) or include it in your review and I will be happy to email you.
It is SHOUT-OUT time!!!!!!
Luthein- I can say "twist" but don't tell anyone because I don't want them to know. Shhhh! I hope that you like the next chapter!!!!
alicia spinet – Oh please don't hall me. I am a humble queen and do not like too much attention, but if you want to who am I to stop you? Thank you for the compliment, but I am nowhere close to J.K. Rowling in writing talent. She is brilliant and writes in a way that I can only dream about. I love J.K. Rowling's new site and I am so glad that she posted the extra info on Dean and the Weasley's. I love Ginny's full name. It is so beautiful. I just want to open that darn door! But I think that maybe it is the gateway to announce when book six is coming out. Only time will tell. (Oh and Marvin is going to get it tonight! I have the plans in place. Wish me luck)
devil-aimee- Thanks for the compliments. I am glad that you liked the owl thing. I actually took it from events that happened in WWII. American families used to get telegrams delivered to them by a government official to notify them of their soldier's death. And I stole that and made them black because black is the color of death. Unfortunately what Voldemort is doing is a sort of holocaust, except that he isn't killing off a specific race of people like Hitler did. I went to an animal shelter type thing and I saw a bunch of goats. I swear they were plotting against me! They will pay! Viva la Revolution!
Yalata- Thanks for the compliment. I began to read Logical Raven's story and I liked what I read of it. I didn't read about any black letters but she must be a history fan or just have a good imagination. I hope that you like this chapter.
Sproxkkk- I am so glad that you reviewed! I feel like I haven't heard for you in a while! I was beginning to wonder where you went! Anyway, it is good to see that you are still reading and enjoying my chapter and I hope that you like this one too!
Padfootlet- Liz is the one that is dead. I love Liz and I hope that she doesn't die. I have to read your story. I love the name Alissa and I don't mind sharing Sirius with her. (Evil laugh) Don't feel bad, I am obsessed too. We can be obsessed together and start a Sirius support group. Please email the pics of Sirius, I am always looking for more! (Weffles81hotmail.com) I would really appreciate it! Flying tigers! What sort of freaks are you breeding? I may have to report you the Department for Control of Magical Creatures. Hehehehe, beat that!
LJstagflower4e/JCtigerwolf4e- (Big cheers and laughs happily!!!!) He he he! It's my favorite reader Rebecca!!! What's up girl! I'll answer your questions in random order and you can figure them out: yes, Liz, maybe, no, Raccoons and grass. I totally agree that the girls need a cool name; like "The Pink Ladies" had in Grease. Hmm, think on it and let me know and I'll let you know and then we can let everyone know. I must meet this Hoolie the Asparagus Hating Anteater. He sounds useful. I could use him to taste my enemies to see if they are poison! Then I can taste them! Interesting! One question: if I water her four times a day will she grow bigger?
KerryBear – I like the new name. I think that it adds character and more mystery. I am quite proud of my butterbeer belly. Actually it was a real conversation that one of my friends had except cut of the "butter" part. (B.T.W. beer bellies are not attractive and if I was Faith I would have Sirius have it magically removed lol) I didn't want James's parents to die. We need the New Year's Eve party!! Whoo-hoo!! Peace out girl!
Sammy, Sammy, Sammy!!! – I love our love-hate relationship. It is so much fun lol. I'm glad that you like the chapter. Do you like my mind games? Muwwahhhahahaha........cough, cough. Hairball. The lightsaber is in position. I am ready to strike. By the next chapter, he will be terminated!!! Hehehehe.
Val – Hey girl what's up! I'm glad that you like the chapter and that you were not discouraged by the wait. I hope that you like this chapter too. It might seem slow, but I promise that it has a point. Life is a little less crazy now and I hope that it stays that way for a while. I hope life is going great for you! Peace out!
Amanda – Chica, what's up! Ask and you shall receive. I gave you Voldemort. But becareful what you wish for, muwahahhahaa. Liz is the one that is dead, to clarify for you. To answer your question; yes this story is going to follow canon. Lily and James will die. I think that it defeats the whole purpose of writing this story if they live. Anyway, I hope you like the new chapter! Peace out!
Pigwidgeon188- I'm sorry but I had to stop somewhere and I like keeping you guys in suspense. Thank you for thinking that my story is good, you don't know how much I appreciate it! I hope that you like this chapter too and I hope that you let me know what you think.
Flyingwind33- Hey girl what's up! Since you are such an awesome person and I feel like I have gotten to know you through these reviews, I am going to answer your questions. Yes it was a dream and Liz is the one that died. Thanks for the compliments and I wish that I could live up to the J.K. Rowling compliment. She is a fantastic writer and I wish that I could have half of her talent. (I'd buy my own island and fill it with cabana boys hehehehe)
Jaquelyne- Hey J! What up? I totally agree with you about the James being like Sirius type stories. I don't think that James was at all a man-whore and I think that Sirius isn't as bad as he tries to make himself out to be. (However, between you and me, if I was at Hogwarts you can bet your bottom that I would be making my move on him.) You put the way I see James and Lily perfectly! I hope that you continue to read and review. Peace out!
Julia- Hey girl what's up! I'm glad that you liked the chapter. I have never been to Catalonia. Actually I'm from New York State and the farthest away I have been is South Carolina. I've never been to any other country, but I am hoping to travel when I get a teaching job. I would love to travel to Spain, Italy (because I am Italian), England, Scotland and the Greek Isles. I am so jealous of your picture! I have one that I printed out by Maggie Bradshaw. It is available online. I love it because it is how I imagined them to look. Anyway, I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Padfootedmoony- Hey what's up! It is sad that people have to die, but that is the way that the world works. Unfortunately we are born to die and it is very sad to loose people we love. I hope that James can defend himself from the evil Michael Jackson monkeys. You are right they are a bad deal. Peace out!
AnniePADFOOT- I don't know if they are available in Australia? Hmm....that is interesting. Well if they aren't, then I will send you some because they are awesome. If you can't find them then try Fun-Dip. It is such a sugar rush. I have one question for you: since you live in Australia, do you ever get sick of people asking how it is down under? If I was an Australian I think that I would get very annoyed at anyone who used that cliché.
kj-11913- Hey thanks for reviewing. I don't want to disappoint you so here is the next chapter. I hope that you like it.
Kittyofwonder- I am so honored that you like my story! I have to agree with you that Pumas are cool. (They are evil and trying to kill me) Marvin a nice guy. Isn't the Sirius and Faith relationship annoying? However, it is so fun to write because they are so similar in behavior. I wonder what will happen with them? Heheheheh. I hope you like the next chapter and I hope to hear from you soon. Oh and Stephanie says "HEY!!!!"
AurorLina- AurorLina we need to sit down and have a chat. (Stephanie shakes her head) How can you not have read the fifth book? You need to take time off of school and sit down and read it because it is the best one so far. To answer your question: the black letters are not in the books. It is something that I made up, but who knows if J.K. has a similar idea in mind. I too think that Sirius is my type of guy, however I can't say no to man in glasses. There is something about them; like they are sweeter or gentler or something. Anyway, (shakes herself out of drooling daydream) I'm glad you like the chapter and I hope that you like this one too! Peace out!
maurader wanna be – What's up! I know that J.K. had said that James's was a chaser but in the movie he was a seeker. Then she took it back or something like that. So to pacify both sets of people I made him both. The new J.K. website is www.jkrowling.org. it is awesome so check it out!
Copyright: This story is mine all mine! Copiers of this story will answer to Marvin!
The Disclaimer:
Greetings fellow pumas and humans!
This week on Marvin's corner I have some new updated information. I have received a lot of fan mail over the past few weeks and I want to answer some of the questions that you have sent me: Yes. Maybe. Only once and it was on a dare. I don't know where Elvis is, but I'm sure that he is near a burrito stand. Absolutely not! I have never used a dating service to find love. Fat chicks are appealing to me. Check under the sofa in your house. From experience, if you apply the cream twice a day it should clear up in a week. I was young and I needed the money. I don't know if flour will cause you to grow warts. Mice do taste like chicken. My mother was only half puma. No, I am not gay. I'd take Britney over Christina. Yes I would eat Peter if I could. Stephanie is alive and well. Yes Walt Disney turned me down for a movie. Tacos do give you gas.
Well now that that is taken care off I want to take the time to tell everyone my true intentions. I am not here to claim anything Harry Potter related as my own. (Yet) Just to let everyone know, Stephanie is fine and happily playing in her cage, eh I mean room. Although, come to mention it, I haven't heard any movement in her 'room' lately. Maybe I should go and check on that. I hope that she hasn't kicked the bucket. The story isn't done yet! She would ruin everything! Hm.....(walks over to the door and knocks on it) What the hell! ( loud clanks and booms come from the room. Someone is screaming and something splatters against the wall)
...................................................
Chapter 20: Falling Leaves
Lily awoke from her dream with a start. Her heart beat fast in her chest and her stomach felt like it was on the floor. Her eyes were wet from tears and she wiped them away. She felt like she had actually been sobbing. She looked around the room. Faith and Liz were both asleep in their beds.
"It was just a dream," Lily thought to herself. She lay back down in her bed and rubbed her eyes. "It was only a dream," she reassured herself.
But it had felt so real. Who was the "she" that had died? Why did she scream that she was supposed to be first? But more importantly why was He- Who-Must-Not-Be-Named coming after her? She took a steadying breath and tried to close her mind. It was only a dream and she shouldn't think into it too much.
"It was just a crazy mind twisted dream that happens after traumatic events," Lily reassured herself. She settled herself more comfortably into her pillows and prayed silently that she would have better dreams this time around.
The Gryffindor Common room was very quiet when the Marauder's entered it very early the next morning. Everyone in the school was all too familiar with the way that today was to be conducted. Classes were cancelled, which would have been welcomed by the students if the circumstances were different. James supposed that there were a few students in the school that were rejoicing, but he tried not to think about that right now. Quidditch practices and club meetings would also be cancelled. Those students who had lost family members were to pack their things and return home for funeral services and the like. James knew that they would slowly return to Hogwarts over the next week. Most students would spend the day in mournful quietness even though it was not required of them. James wished that he could just sleep through this day and wake up tomorrow instead. The Prefects and the Head Boy and Girl were to help the students in their houses pack and escort them to the entrance hall where the horseless carriages would take them and several professors, acting as chaperones, to the Hogwarts Express.
The four boys sat at a table by the portrait hole. One-by-one Gryffindor students made their way down from their rooms. After ten minutes Lily, Faith and Liz emerged from the girl's door. By the look of her, James figured that she didn't sleep very well. Her eyes looked tired and her beautiful red hair was pulled back into a loose ponytail. She gave him a small smile as she approached the table.
"Morning," said Lily sitting down next to James.
"Good morning." James leaned over and gave her a kiss.
"Are you lot ready to catch some breakfast?" asked Sirius, lazily looking at the portrait hole.
"You, Peter, Faith and Liz go ahead. We have to escort the students leaving to the entrance hall," said Lily folding her hands on the table in front of her.
"You three go ahead. I'm not very hungry," said Liz looking as sleep deprived as Lily felt.
"I don't feel much like eating either," said Faith, resting her head on her hands. "I think I'd just rather stay here and catch up on some homework that I've been procrastinating on."
"Suit yourselves. Come on Pete," said Sirius as he made to get up. "If you guys get hungry, you know where to find us."
Peter and Sirius disappeared out of the portrait hole. The students that had to leave were slowly assembling into the common room. No one at the table was making any real effort to strike up any conversation. Instead they were quite comfortable sitting there in silent solitude. Finally the time came when Lily, James and Remus were to escort the Gryffindor students to the entrance hall. As they approached the entrance hall, Lily braced herself for what she was about to see. Students were gathered into the area like sheep awaiting the slaughter. Some were openly sobbing and crying while others looked completely desensitized from the events that were happening. Professor McGonagall was in front of the door taking role count. After making sure that their job was completed the three of them decided to try and grab some breakfast. But the site that Lily saw when she entered the Great Hall made any appetite she had disappear completely.
The Slytherin table was happily rejoicing in the tragedy that plagued three quarters of the school. They were loudly chatting, laughing and joking around as if this was some sort of holiday. As Lily sat down in her usual seat, she felt completely appalled.
"Can you believe that?" spat Sirius in disgust as he glared at the opposite table. "By the way they are acting you would think that Christmas came bloody early."
"It is completely revolting," said Lily grimly. "I don't know why Dumbledore doesn't do anything about it. They have no respect for the people who have lost family."
"They don't care now do they?" said James harshly in the Slytherin direction. "Merlin knows that they probably had family members involved in that raid. It is practically a holiday for them." James moodily stabbed at his plate of food, but did not take a bite of it. A high pitch shriek of laughter drew their attention towards the opposite table. Bellatrix was regally sitting amongst her court at her table in complete pleasure and high spirits.
"She makes me sick," snarled Sirius. "Look at her sitting there in all of her glory. Merlin knows that her little boyfriend was probably in on those raids." Sirius threw down his fork onto his untouched food with a loud clank and crossed his arms. "It makes me sick to my stomach that we are of the same blood."
"You may be of the same blood mate but that is it. You are nothing like her," reassured James.
He knew how rough Sirius was taking this. Anything that involved his family and something relating to Dark Events or the Dark Arts sent Sirius over the edge. James knew how much he loathed his family. Sirius never really talked about his home life, but what little James knew of it he didn't blame Sirius for running away last summer. Personally, James thought that if it were him he would have done it a long time ago.
"I think I have lost my appetite," said Lily pushing her juice away from her. "Do you want to go back to the common room?"
"Yeah, let's get out of here," said James making to stand up. Sirius followed suit and Peter reluctantly got up, not before swiping several danishes and greedily shoving them into his pockets.
The afternoon dragged on. James wished that this day would just end already. He could not focus on his homework no matter how much he tried. Frustrated, he crossed out a whole sentence on his potions essay for the twelfth time. A huge, irritated sigh caused him to look up. Apparently he wasn't the only one that was having trouble concentrating.
"I can't do this," proclaimed Faith, irritably closing her transfiguration book. The others looked at her in complete understanding, but didn't say anything. She gathered up her books and got up from the table.
"Where are you going?" asked Liz concerned.
"Upstairs to put these away. I need to do something constructive before I go insane." Faith disappeared up the stairs.
"I know what she means," said James, pushing his essay away from him and tiredly rubbing his eyes under his glasses. "I need a break from all of this homework."
"It's a good chance to get ahead," said Lily without conviction. "We have N.E.W.T.'s coming up and we need to take advantage of any opportunities that we have to get this done." Lily put down her quill and cracked her knuckles.
"I say we forget this for a while and take a break," said Sirius, leaning back in his chair and lazily twirling his quill.
"Excellent idea," said Remus. "I think being kempt up in here is not doing us any favors."
"Where are you going?" asked Lily as Faith had reemerged in powder blue sweat pants, a black t-shirt and sneakers.
"For a run. I have to let out some of this energy. Anyone care to join?" said Faith looking around the table hopefully.
"You go right ahead, love. Jogging sounds worse to me than sitting here doing Binns's essay," yawned Sirius.
"Your loss," shrugged Faith. She turned from the table and walked out of the portrait hole. Lily laughed to herself as she saw her wand shoved into the side of her pants waistband.
"Actually, a little fresh air is just what I was thinking," said Remus trying to sound joyful. Liz smiled and nodded her head.
"Good idea mate," said James as the table began to pack their things up. They ran upstairs to their respective dorms and put their things away and changed out of their uniforms and robes real quick. Lily was glad to be taking off her robes for a little bit and wearing some normal clothes.
The grounds were crisp and cool. The bright oranges, reds and yellows were still illuminating the grounds, except most of it seemed to have fallen to the ground overnight. The wind had a slight bitter feel to it as if warning that winter was only a few short weeks away. James breathed in deep; it felt so much better to be outside and taking in the fresh air than pent up in the tower. Apparently some other students had the same idea as James saw several students also strolling the grounds or sitting by the lake under a tree. Clearly the fresh air is just what the group needed. Before James knew it they were all laughing and enjoying themselves like normal. Lily and Liz had decided to make a pile of leaves by swishing their wands over a large piece of lawn and pushing all of the leaves together. Not being able to resist himself, James picked up Lily and jumped into the leaves with her. Liz threw Remus into the leaves and laughed as he lay there on his back. He reached up and grabbed her arm and pulled her into the pile. Peter anxiously stood on the outside of the pile laughing at the others playing.
"Look out!" yelled Sirius as he had gained a running start and was half way in the air headed towards James.
Lily laughed as leaves flew everywhere. James had rolled out of the way just in time and was now throwing leaves onto Sirius. The group had no idea how long they were engrossed in an all out war of leaf wrestling and fighting. Out of breath, they all sat there amongst the remains of the pile.
"What happened here?" asked Faith slightly out of breath as she had spotted them on her run and decided to join them.
"Leaf war," explained Lily as she pulled leaves out of her long red hair.
"It was terrible!" exclaimed Sirius dramatically as he sat in the pile. "Leaves were flying everywhere! There were women and children running for the hilltops! Men cowered at the sight of the battle! At one point it was just James and I. Remus had bit it trying to save the lovely Lady Elizabeth........."
"Don't call me that Sirius," interrupted Liz with a shudder.
".........Both of us were armed with nothing but a handful of leaves. James looked at me and I looked at him. We ran at each other at full speed and attacked! Unfortunately, I missed and he got me right in the ticker!" Sirius grabbed his heart and fell backwards.
"Oh my poor warrior was struck down by leaves," laughed Faith as she dramatically fell into the leaves beside Sirius. She buried her head in his chest and pretended to cry. "Of all the woeful things to happen! My only relief is that he died in battle, which is how he wanted it to be."
The group let out a roar of laughter has Sirius pretend to lay fallen due to the terrific battle of the leaves. Lily dramatically rushed over to Faith and put a hand on her back.
"Oh dear friend, do not weep for him. It was a duel of wits and skill and I am afraid that he came unarmed," said Lily theatrically.
"Unhand me foul wench! For it was your warrior that struck him down!" said Faith forcefully removing Lily's hand from her. "We are no longer sisters, but sworn enemies!" Faith grabbed a handful of leaves and stood up. "Face me and let the duel end here with us!"
"I must warn you, I am skilled at leaf throwing. If you fight me you will most certainly join your beloved!" proclaimed Lily as she grabbed a handful of leaves.
"No my love you mustn't!" said James, grabbing a hold of Lily's arm.
"Yes I must. To uphold your honor," said Lily shaking his hand free and squaring up to Faith, who was trying her best not to laugh. "On the count of three! One.........Two......Three!" Both girls threw their leaves at one another.
"No!!" screamed Liz, diving in front of Faith and taking in a mouthful of leaves. Faith let out a very dramatic and unnerving realistic scream. Liz lay there trying not to laugh and trying very hard to pretend to be dead.
"Oh my most loyal friend! How very brave and stupid you are for doing that!" laughed Faith as she bent over Liz. "Why God did you let her do that? WHY!" Faith rested her head in her hands. "I was supposed to go first! Not her, ME!"
James, Sirius, Remus and Peter applauded and let out whoops of laughter.
"Very realistic and overly dramatic love," said Sirius as he sat up and hugged Faith around the waist. He pulled her down into the leaves with him. "Oh looks like I fell." Faith laughed and lightly hit him on the arm.
"I think that you could have a future in theater," encouraged Remus as he picked up Liz's head and rested it on his lap.
"We should paten that and turn it into a production. I think we could make a ton of money," exclaimed James, settling himself into the pile. "Don't you think love?"
"Huh? Oh yeah, right," said Lily absentmindedly. She had frozen on the spot as suddenly her dream came running back into her mind. She had forgotten about it until now.
The day seemed to go by rather quickly after the little production in the leaves. Before Lily knew it, she was patrolling the corridor with James on their nightly duty. The dream had haunted her ever since this afternoon.
"Don't you think?" asked James, swing their intertwined hands in front of them playfully.
"Huh?" said Lily coming back to reality. "What did you say?"
"I said that McGonagall wants us to come up with ideas for themes about the Seventh Year Ball and I was thinking that we should do a medieval theme. Aren't you listening?" asked James looking concerned at Lily.
"I was. Um, a medieval theme? I think maybe we should keep coming up with ideas," said Lily apologetically.
"It was just a thought," said James lazily. "Is everything all right? You seem distant or something." Lily let out a deep sigh and squeezed his hand a little tighter.
"It's nothing really. I just keep thinking about this dream I had last night for some reason. I don't know why I can let it go." Lily looked up into James's eyes.
"Well what was it about? Maybe I can help you with it," offered James. Lily explained the entire dream as she remembered it. James sat there in silence for a moment then smiled at her.
"I wouldn't worry about it Lily. It wasn't anything important. You were just reacting to the events of last night. It is not uncommon. I had strange dreams and such after those attacks in the past and they usually are just that, dreams. Nothing more. I won't go and get your self all worked up in a thither about it."
"It just felt so real," concluded Lily. "It felt like I was looking on something that was actually happening. That girl had to be Liz. It is the only way that it makes sense." She looked up at James for an explanation.
"Lily, I wouldn't read too much into it. It was a dream. Do you know how many times I've had dreams that Sirius or Remus have died? These are horrible times that we live in and even though we are safe here doesn't mean that we are sheltered from the reality that horrible things are happening out there." James grabbed both of her hands in his and gazed down directly into her eyes. "You-Know-Who is not after you. He isn't after any of us. He doesn't know who we are so you have nothing to fret over. All you are doing is getting yourself worked up." He gave her a small smile. Lily nodded her head.
"You're right. I was just being silly." She smiled and James bent down to give her a kiss.
"Besides," he said as they began to walk down the corridor. "As long as I am around I won't let anything happen to you. And that goes for You- Know-Who too."
Don't forget to review! The 200th reviewer will be mentioned in the story and sent a box of cookies!
So I would like to give a huge thanks to everyone who has reviewed! I cannot believe that 23 of you reviewed this chapter! I wish that I could just hug all of you and really buy you a box of cookies. And to think that I almost did not continue writing this story in fear that it would not be liked. You all rock! I am so excited to see who the 200th reviewer is going to be. Maybe I will put that person in the next chapter of the story? Hmmm.........it is a plan, oh yes, it just may work. Anyway, I wanted to let you guys know that I have personally been sending out email to people's mailboxes when the new chapter is up. If you would like me to send you the update just email me at my email address listed in my profile (please put the subject along the lines of "Seventh Year Memories" or "Hey, it's so and so from fan fiction" so I don't delete it by accident) or include it in your review and I will be happy to email you.
It is SHOUT-OUT time!!!!!!
Luthein- I can say "twist" but don't tell anyone because I don't want them to know. Shhhh! I hope that you like the next chapter!!!!
alicia spinet – Oh please don't hall me. I am a humble queen and do not like too much attention, but if you want to who am I to stop you? Thank you for the compliment, but I am nowhere close to J.K. Rowling in writing talent. She is brilliant and writes in a way that I can only dream about. I love J.K. Rowling's new site and I am so glad that she posted the extra info on Dean and the Weasley's. I love Ginny's full name. It is so beautiful. I just want to open that darn door! But I think that maybe it is the gateway to announce when book six is coming out. Only time will tell. (Oh and Marvin is going to get it tonight! I have the plans in place. Wish me luck)
devil-aimee- Thanks for the compliments. I am glad that you liked the owl thing. I actually took it from events that happened in WWII. American families used to get telegrams delivered to them by a government official to notify them of their soldier's death. And I stole that and made them black because black is the color of death. Unfortunately what Voldemort is doing is a sort of holocaust, except that he isn't killing off a specific race of people like Hitler did. I went to an animal shelter type thing and I saw a bunch of goats. I swear they were plotting against me! They will pay! Viva la Revolution!
Yalata- Thanks for the compliment. I began to read Logical Raven's story and I liked what I read of it. I didn't read about any black letters but she must be a history fan or just have a good imagination. I hope that you like this chapter.
Sproxkkk- I am so glad that you reviewed! I feel like I haven't heard for you in a while! I was beginning to wonder where you went! Anyway, it is good to see that you are still reading and enjoying my chapter and I hope that you like this one too!
Padfootlet- Liz is the one that is dead. I love Liz and I hope that she doesn't die. I have to read your story. I love the name Alissa and I don't mind sharing Sirius with her. (Evil laugh) Don't feel bad, I am obsessed too. We can be obsessed together and start a Sirius support group. Please email the pics of Sirius, I am always looking for more! (Weffles81hotmail.com) I would really appreciate it! Flying tigers! What sort of freaks are you breeding? I may have to report you the Department for Control of Magical Creatures. Hehehehe, beat that!
LJstagflower4e/JCtigerwolf4e- (Big cheers and laughs happily!!!!) He he he! It's my favorite reader Rebecca!!! What's up girl! I'll answer your questions in random order and you can figure them out: yes, Liz, maybe, no, Raccoons and grass. I totally agree that the girls need a cool name; like "The Pink Ladies" had in Grease. Hmm, think on it and let me know and I'll let you know and then we can let everyone know. I must meet this Hoolie the Asparagus Hating Anteater. He sounds useful. I could use him to taste my enemies to see if they are poison! Then I can taste them! Interesting! One question: if I water her four times a day will she grow bigger?
KerryBear – I like the new name. I think that it adds character and more mystery. I am quite proud of my butterbeer belly. Actually it was a real conversation that one of my friends had except cut of the "butter" part. (B.T.W. beer bellies are not attractive and if I was Faith I would have Sirius have it magically removed lol) I didn't want James's parents to die. We need the New Year's Eve party!! Whoo-hoo!! Peace out girl!
Sammy, Sammy, Sammy!!! – I love our love-hate relationship. It is so much fun lol. I'm glad that you like the chapter. Do you like my mind games? Muwwahhhahahaha........cough, cough. Hairball. The lightsaber is in position. I am ready to strike. By the next chapter, he will be terminated!!! Hehehehe.
Val – Hey girl what's up! I'm glad that you like the chapter and that you were not discouraged by the wait. I hope that you like this chapter too. It might seem slow, but I promise that it has a point. Life is a little less crazy now and I hope that it stays that way for a while. I hope life is going great for you! Peace out!
Amanda – Chica, what's up! Ask and you shall receive. I gave you Voldemort. But becareful what you wish for, muwahahhahaa. Liz is the one that is dead, to clarify for you. To answer your question; yes this story is going to follow canon. Lily and James will die. I think that it defeats the whole purpose of writing this story if they live. Anyway, I hope you like the new chapter! Peace out!
Pigwidgeon188- I'm sorry but I had to stop somewhere and I like keeping you guys in suspense. Thank you for thinking that my story is good, you don't know how much I appreciate it! I hope that you like this chapter too and I hope that you let me know what you think.
Flyingwind33- Hey girl what's up! Since you are such an awesome person and I feel like I have gotten to know you through these reviews, I am going to answer your questions. Yes it was a dream and Liz is the one that died. Thanks for the compliments and I wish that I could live up to the J.K. Rowling compliment. She is a fantastic writer and I wish that I could have half of her talent. (I'd buy my own island and fill it with cabana boys hehehehe)
Jaquelyne- Hey J! What up? I totally agree with you about the James being like Sirius type stories. I don't think that James was at all a man-whore and I think that Sirius isn't as bad as he tries to make himself out to be. (However, between you and me, if I was at Hogwarts you can bet your bottom that I would be making my move on him.) You put the way I see James and Lily perfectly! I hope that you continue to read and review. Peace out!
Julia- Hey girl what's up! I'm glad that you liked the chapter. I have never been to Catalonia. Actually I'm from New York State and the farthest away I have been is South Carolina. I've never been to any other country, but I am hoping to travel when I get a teaching job. I would love to travel to Spain, Italy (because I am Italian), England, Scotland and the Greek Isles. I am so jealous of your picture! I have one that I printed out by Maggie Bradshaw. It is available online. I love it because it is how I imagined them to look. Anyway, I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Padfootedmoony- Hey what's up! It is sad that people have to die, but that is the way that the world works. Unfortunately we are born to die and it is very sad to loose people we love. I hope that James can defend himself from the evil Michael Jackson monkeys. You are right they are a bad deal. Peace out!
AnniePADFOOT- I don't know if they are available in Australia? Hmm....that is interesting. Well if they aren't, then I will send you some because they are awesome. If you can't find them then try Fun-Dip. It is such a sugar rush. I have one question for you: since you live in Australia, do you ever get sick of people asking how it is down under? If I was an Australian I think that I would get very annoyed at anyone who used that cliché.
kj-11913- Hey thanks for reviewing. I don't want to disappoint you so here is the next chapter. I hope that you like it.
Kittyofwonder- I am so honored that you like my story! I have to agree with you that Pumas are cool. (They are evil and trying to kill me) Marvin a nice guy. Isn't the Sirius and Faith relationship annoying? However, it is so fun to write because they are so similar in behavior. I wonder what will happen with them? Heheheheh. I hope you like the next chapter and I hope to hear from you soon. Oh and Stephanie says "HEY!!!!"
AurorLina- AurorLina we need to sit down and have a chat. (Stephanie shakes her head) How can you not have read the fifth book? You need to take time off of school and sit down and read it because it is the best one so far. To answer your question: the black letters are not in the books. It is something that I made up, but who knows if J.K. has a similar idea in mind. I too think that Sirius is my type of guy, however I can't say no to man in glasses. There is something about them; like they are sweeter or gentler or something. Anyway, (shakes herself out of drooling daydream) I'm glad you like the chapter and I hope that you like this one too! Peace out!
maurader wanna be – What's up! I know that J.K. had said that James's was a chaser but in the movie he was a seeker. Then she took it back or something like that. So to pacify both sets of people I made him both. The new J.K. website is www.jkrowling.org. it is awesome so check it out!
Copyright: This story is mine all mine! Copiers of this story will answer to Marvin!
The Disclaimer:
Greetings fellow pumas and humans!
This week on Marvin's corner I have some new updated information. I have received a lot of fan mail over the past few weeks and I want to answer some of the questions that you have sent me: Yes. Maybe. Only once and it was on a dare. I don't know where Elvis is, but I'm sure that he is near a burrito stand. Absolutely not! I have never used a dating service to find love. Fat chicks are appealing to me. Check under the sofa in your house. From experience, if you apply the cream twice a day it should clear up in a week. I was young and I needed the money. I don't know if flour will cause you to grow warts. Mice do taste like chicken. My mother was only half puma. No, I am not gay. I'd take Britney over Christina. Yes I would eat Peter if I could. Stephanie is alive and well. Yes Walt Disney turned me down for a movie. Tacos do give you gas.
Well now that that is taken care off I want to take the time to tell everyone my true intentions. I am not here to claim anything Harry Potter related as my own. (Yet) Just to let everyone know, Stephanie is fine and happily playing in her cage, eh I mean room. Although, come to mention it, I haven't heard any movement in her 'room' lately. Maybe I should go and check on that. I hope that she hasn't kicked the bucket. The story isn't done yet! She would ruin everything! Hm.....(walks over to the door and knocks on it) What the hell! ( loud clanks and booms come from the room. Someone is screaming and something splatters against the wall)
...................................................
Chapter 20: Falling Leaves
Lily awoke from her dream with a start. Her heart beat fast in her chest and her stomach felt like it was on the floor. Her eyes were wet from tears and she wiped them away. She felt like she had actually been sobbing. She looked around the room. Faith and Liz were both asleep in their beds.
"It was just a dream," Lily thought to herself. She lay back down in her bed and rubbed her eyes. "It was only a dream," she reassured herself.
But it had felt so real. Who was the "she" that had died? Why did she scream that she was supposed to be first? But more importantly why was He- Who-Must-Not-Be-Named coming after her? She took a steadying breath and tried to close her mind. It was only a dream and she shouldn't think into it too much.
"It was just a crazy mind twisted dream that happens after traumatic events," Lily reassured herself. She settled herself more comfortably into her pillows and prayed silently that she would have better dreams this time around.
The Gryffindor Common room was very quiet when the Marauder's entered it very early the next morning. Everyone in the school was all too familiar with the way that today was to be conducted. Classes were cancelled, which would have been welcomed by the students if the circumstances were different. James supposed that there were a few students in the school that were rejoicing, but he tried not to think about that right now. Quidditch practices and club meetings would also be cancelled. Those students who had lost family members were to pack their things and return home for funeral services and the like. James knew that they would slowly return to Hogwarts over the next week. Most students would spend the day in mournful quietness even though it was not required of them. James wished that he could just sleep through this day and wake up tomorrow instead. The Prefects and the Head Boy and Girl were to help the students in their houses pack and escort them to the entrance hall where the horseless carriages would take them and several professors, acting as chaperones, to the Hogwarts Express.
The four boys sat at a table by the portrait hole. One-by-one Gryffindor students made their way down from their rooms. After ten minutes Lily, Faith and Liz emerged from the girl's door. By the look of her, James figured that she didn't sleep very well. Her eyes looked tired and her beautiful red hair was pulled back into a loose ponytail. She gave him a small smile as she approached the table.
"Morning," said Lily sitting down next to James.
"Good morning." James leaned over and gave her a kiss.
"Are you lot ready to catch some breakfast?" asked Sirius, lazily looking at the portrait hole.
"You, Peter, Faith and Liz go ahead. We have to escort the students leaving to the entrance hall," said Lily folding her hands on the table in front of her.
"You three go ahead. I'm not very hungry," said Liz looking as sleep deprived as Lily felt.
"I don't feel much like eating either," said Faith, resting her head on her hands. "I think I'd just rather stay here and catch up on some homework that I've been procrastinating on."
"Suit yourselves. Come on Pete," said Sirius as he made to get up. "If you guys get hungry, you know where to find us."
Peter and Sirius disappeared out of the portrait hole. The students that had to leave were slowly assembling into the common room. No one at the table was making any real effort to strike up any conversation. Instead they were quite comfortable sitting there in silent solitude. Finally the time came when Lily, James and Remus were to escort the Gryffindor students to the entrance hall. As they approached the entrance hall, Lily braced herself for what she was about to see. Students were gathered into the area like sheep awaiting the slaughter. Some were openly sobbing and crying while others looked completely desensitized from the events that were happening. Professor McGonagall was in front of the door taking role count. After making sure that their job was completed the three of them decided to try and grab some breakfast. But the site that Lily saw when she entered the Great Hall made any appetite she had disappear completely.
The Slytherin table was happily rejoicing in the tragedy that plagued three quarters of the school. They were loudly chatting, laughing and joking around as if this was some sort of holiday. As Lily sat down in her usual seat, she felt completely appalled.
"Can you believe that?" spat Sirius in disgust as he glared at the opposite table. "By the way they are acting you would think that Christmas came bloody early."
"It is completely revolting," said Lily grimly. "I don't know why Dumbledore doesn't do anything about it. They have no respect for the people who have lost family."
"They don't care now do they?" said James harshly in the Slytherin direction. "Merlin knows that they probably had family members involved in that raid. It is practically a holiday for them." James moodily stabbed at his plate of food, but did not take a bite of it. A high pitch shriek of laughter drew their attention towards the opposite table. Bellatrix was regally sitting amongst her court at her table in complete pleasure and high spirits.
"She makes me sick," snarled Sirius. "Look at her sitting there in all of her glory. Merlin knows that her little boyfriend was probably in on those raids." Sirius threw down his fork onto his untouched food with a loud clank and crossed his arms. "It makes me sick to my stomach that we are of the same blood."
"You may be of the same blood mate but that is it. You are nothing like her," reassured James.
He knew how rough Sirius was taking this. Anything that involved his family and something relating to Dark Events or the Dark Arts sent Sirius over the edge. James knew how much he loathed his family. Sirius never really talked about his home life, but what little James knew of it he didn't blame Sirius for running away last summer. Personally, James thought that if it were him he would have done it a long time ago.
"I think I have lost my appetite," said Lily pushing her juice away from her. "Do you want to go back to the common room?"
"Yeah, let's get out of here," said James making to stand up. Sirius followed suit and Peter reluctantly got up, not before swiping several danishes and greedily shoving them into his pockets.
The afternoon dragged on. James wished that this day would just end already. He could not focus on his homework no matter how much he tried. Frustrated, he crossed out a whole sentence on his potions essay for the twelfth time. A huge, irritated sigh caused him to look up. Apparently he wasn't the only one that was having trouble concentrating.
"I can't do this," proclaimed Faith, irritably closing her transfiguration book. The others looked at her in complete understanding, but didn't say anything. She gathered up her books and got up from the table.
"Where are you going?" asked Liz concerned.
"Upstairs to put these away. I need to do something constructive before I go insane." Faith disappeared up the stairs.
"I know what she means," said James, pushing his essay away from him and tiredly rubbing his eyes under his glasses. "I need a break from all of this homework."
"It's a good chance to get ahead," said Lily without conviction. "We have N.E.W.T.'s coming up and we need to take advantage of any opportunities that we have to get this done." Lily put down her quill and cracked her knuckles.
"I say we forget this for a while and take a break," said Sirius, leaning back in his chair and lazily twirling his quill.
"Excellent idea," said Remus. "I think being kempt up in here is not doing us any favors."
"Where are you going?" asked Lily as Faith had reemerged in powder blue sweat pants, a black t-shirt and sneakers.
"For a run. I have to let out some of this energy. Anyone care to join?" said Faith looking around the table hopefully.
"You go right ahead, love. Jogging sounds worse to me than sitting here doing Binns's essay," yawned Sirius.
"Your loss," shrugged Faith. She turned from the table and walked out of the portrait hole. Lily laughed to herself as she saw her wand shoved into the side of her pants waistband.
"Actually, a little fresh air is just what I was thinking," said Remus trying to sound joyful. Liz smiled and nodded her head.
"Good idea mate," said James as the table began to pack their things up. They ran upstairs to their respective dorms and put their things away and changed out of their uniforms and robes real quick. Lily was glad to be taking off her robes for a little bit and wearing some normal clothes.
The grounds were crisp and cool. The bright oranges, reds and yellows were still illuminating the grounds, except most of it seemed to have fallen to the ground overnight. The wind had a slight bitter feel to it as if warning that winter was only a few short weeks away. James breathed in deep; it felt so much better to be outside and taking in the fresh air than pent up in the tower. Apparently some other students had the same idea as James saw several students also strolling the grounds or sitting by the lake under a tree. Clearly the fresh air is just what the group needed. Before James knew it they were all laughing and enjoying themselves like normal. Lily and Liz had decided to make a pile of leaves by swishing their wands over a large piece of lawn and pushing all of the leaves together. Not being able to resist himself, James picked up Lily and jumped into the leaves with her. Liz threw Remus into the leaves and laughed as he lay there on his back. He reached up and grabbed her arm and pulled her into the pile. Peter anxiously stood on the outside of the pile laughing at the others playing.
"Look out!" yelled Sirius as he had gained a running start and was half way in the air headed towards James.
Lily laughed as leaves flew everywhere. James had rolled out of the way just in time and was now throwing leaves onto Sirius. The group had no idea how long they were engrossed in an all out war of leaf wrestling and fighting. Out of breath, they all sat there amongst the remains of the pile.
"What happened here?" asked Faith slightly out of breath as she had spotted them on her run and decided to join them.
"Leaf war," explained Lily as she pulled leaves out of her long red hair.
"It was terrible!" exclaimed Sirius dramatically as he sat in the pile. "Leaves were flying everywhere! There were women and children running for the hilltops! Men cowered at the sight of the battle! At one point it was just James and I. Remus had bit it trying to save the lovely Lady Elizabeth........."
"Don't call me that Sirius," interrupted Liz with a shudder.
".........Both of us were armed with nothing but a handful of leaves. James looked at me and I looked at him. We ran at each other at full speed and attacked! Unfortunately, I missed and he got me right in the ticker!" Sirius grabbed his heart and fell backwards.
"Oh my poor warrior was struck down by leaves," laughed Faith as she dramatically fell into the leaves beside Sirius. She buried her head in his chest and pretended to cry. "Of all the woeful things to happen! My only relief is that he died in battle, which is how he wanted it to be."
The group let out a roar of laughter has Sirius pretend to lay fallen due to the terrific battle of the leaves. Lily dramatically rushed over to Faith and put a hand on her back.
"Oh dear friend, do not weep for him. It was a duel of wits and skill and I am afraid that he came unarmed," said Lily theatrically.
"Unhand me foul wench! For it was your warrior that struck him down!" said Faith forcefully removing Lily's hand from her. "We are no longer sisters, but sworn enemies!" Faith grabbed a handful of leaves and stood up. "Face me and let the duel end here with us!"
"I must warn you, I am skilled at leaf throwing. If you fight me you will most certainly join your beloved!" proclaimed Lily as she grabbed a handful of leaves.
"No my love you mustn't!" said James, grabbing a hold of Lily's arm.
"Yes I must. To uphold your honor," said Lily shaking his hand free and squaring up to Faith, who was trying her best not to laugh. "On the count of three! One.........Two......Three!" Both girls threw their leaves at one another.
"No!!" screamed Liz, diving in front of Faith and taking in a mouthful of leaves. Faith let out a very dramatic and unnerving realistic scream. Liz lay there trying not to laugh and trying very hard to pretend to be dead.
"Oh my most loyal friend! How very brave and stupid you are for doing that!" laughed Faith as she bent over Liz. "Why God did you let her do that? WHY!" Faith rested her head in her hands. "I was supposed to go first! Not her, ME!"
James, Sirius, Remus and Peter applauded and let out whoops of laughter.
"Very realistic and overly dramatic love," said Sirius as he sat up and hugged Faith around the waist. He pulled her down into the leaves with him. "Oh looks like I fell." Faith laughed and lightly hit him on the arm.
"I think that you could have a future in theater," encouraged Remus as he picked up Liz's head and rested it on his lap.
"We should paten that and turn it into a production. I think we could make a ton of money," exclaimed James, settling himself into the pile. "Don't you think love?"
"Huh? Oh yeah, right," said Lily absentmindedly. She had frozen on the spot as suddenly her dream came running back into her mind. She had forgotten about it until now.
The day seemed to go by rather quickly after the little production in the leaves. Before Lily knew it, she was patrolling the corridor with James on their nightly duty. The dream had haunted her ever since this afternoon.
"Don't you think?" asked James, swing their intertwined hands in front of them playfully.
"Huh?" said Lily coming back to reality. "What did you say?"
"I said that McGonagall wants us to come up with ideas for themes about the Seventh Year Ball and I was thinking that we should do a medieval theme. Aren't you listening?" asked James looking concerned at Lily.
"I was. Um, a medieval theme? I think maybe we should keep coming up with ideas," said Lily apologetically.
"It was just a thought," said James lazily. "Is everything all right? You seem distant or something." Lily let out a deep sigh and squeezed his hand a little tighter.
"It's nothing really. I just keep thinking about this dream I had last night for some reason. I don't know why I can let it go." Lily looked up into James's eyes.
"Well what was it about? Maybe I can help you with it," offered James. Lily explained the entire dream as she remembered it. James sat there in silence for a moment then smiled at her.
"I wouldn't worry about it Lily. It wasn't anything important. You were just reacting to the events of last night. It is not uncommon. I had strange dreams and such after those attacks in the past and they usually are just that, dreams. Nothing more. I won't go and get your self all worked up in a thither about it."
"It just felt so real," concluded Lily. "It felt like I was looking on something that was actually happening. That girl had to be Liz. It is the only way that it makes sense." She looked up at James for an explanation.
"Lily, I wouldn't read too much into it. It was a dream. Do you know how many times I've had dreams that Sirius or Remus have died? These are horrible times that we live in and even though we are safe here doesn't mean that we are sheltered from the reality that horrible things are happening out there." James grabbed both of her hands in his and gazed down directly into her eyes. "You-Know-Who is not after you. He isn't after any of us. He doesn't know who we are so you have nothing to fret over. All you are doing is getting yourself worked up." He gave her a small smile. Lily nodded her head.
"You're right. I was just being silly." She smiled and James bent down to give her a kiss.
"Besides," he said as they began to walk down the corridor. "As long as I am around I won't let anything happen to you. And that goes for You- Know-Who too."
Don't forget to review! The 200th reviewer will be mentioned in the story and sent a box of cookies!