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I do not own any of the Harry Potter characters or anything else resembling what J.K Rowling introduced us all to. Just the plot and OC are mine.
Chapter 38
Nearly a week later found Avalynn skipping out of her Charms class and heading towards the library for a tutoring session with Severus and Regulus. They were to spend at least an hour in their quiet study spot so she could focus on Astronomy before heading down to the dungeons with Severus after dinner. Since she would be taking the third-year exam for Potions the following week, she needed to practice her brewing skills. Ava thought she'd be just fine, but the future Potions Master wouldn't let any "bouts of laziness" interfere with his perfect record as her tutor.
During this last class, Professor Flitwick had the students carefully practicing Incendio within a containment spell, which proved necessary for a handful of her fellow sixth-year Gryffindors and a couple Ravenclaws. She loved learning the higher level charms, like Incendio, and Glacius, which they covered last week, since they could prove useful in a duel among other situations. Ava made a mental note to research other spells that might not seem obvious to use in a magical attack. Sure, it might take her a while to find those kind of spells since they'd likely be considered obscure or gray—God forbid, she thought with a roll of her eyes—but you never know what spell might come in handy. Especially when you're messing with wizards more powerful than yourself.
As she descended a staircase, Ava thought back to her premature declaration of being enrolled in all seventh-year courses by Christmas. Just a tad ambitious. With the holiday break only three weeks away, the only class she'd be a seventh year in might be Charms if she pushed herself hard enough. But I'll definitely graduate with everyone else, she thought resolutely. She would have to push herself harder than she did the first semester if she truly wanted to be leaving Hogwarts along with her friends. Granted, if she was forced to remain at the school for another year, she'd still have some friends from the younger classes, but Ava was convinced she could do it.
She was thankful that the Ministry was allowing her to take her O.W.L.s as she progressed through the subjects, rather than sitting them all at once. Having no brain power or strength of will to consider a future career at the moment, she was just striving for the best possible scores she could manage. I'll worry about a job later, she thought, once Voldemort is taken care of.
Aunt Minerva had told Ava that Dumbledore would induct her into the Order at a meeting over the Christmas break, and she was anticipating it with both dread and excitement. The Headmaster wanted to meet with her a few times before the induction meeting, so hopefully her nerves would wear off as she got used to being in his presence. The young witch wanted to keep her specific involvement in the Order as quiet as possible and planned to inform Dumbledore that she'd only reveal her true role to his most trusted lieutenants. She only hoped that it would fall under the magically sworn words of her Oath to Dumbledore, which could only be so detailed, and she couldn't have included every little thing in the binding words.
As it was, her amends to Dumbledore's original request for her Oath had pushed the old wizard's patience. Like how he asked me to vow to protect every student while working towards the goal of eliminating Voldemort, she thought with an eye roll as she approached the huge library doors. She wasn't sure if the Headmaster was aware, but there were definitely some students she had no intention of wasting energy on because they were too emphatic about their hatred of Muggles or Muggleborns. No, her Oath only bound her to "take actions that would help vanquish Voldemort and his Horcruxes as well as assist the Order of the Phoenix in dismantling the Death Eaters and other followers of Tom Riddle, while protecting those who cannot defend themselves or are deemed worthy." Dumbledore wasn't happy about her last minute addition of those that she finds worthy because of how subjective it was, but she didn't care. Ava didn't want to be beholden to the old wizard to save every single person or only the people he believed would be worth the effort. It seemed only fair that she choose exactly who she'd be risking her neck for.
Her first meeting with the old wizard was purely for an exchange of information—the list of current members for the whereabouts of the remaining Horcruxes. For the thousandth time, she reminded herself to warn him about the Gaunt ring and dissuade him from putting it on, regardless of how much he desired the Hallows. Of course, Ava didn't think he'd take too kindly to her insinuation, but she'd really like him to stick around for the final showdown with Voldemort. So, she needed to make it clear that she understood his compulsion to wear the cursed object in hopes that he'd actually listen.
She strided down the rows of bookshelves and emerged near their usual study table, joining Severus and Regulus. Just a moment later, Barty appeared and settled himself next to her. She flashed him a smile while internally ruminating in smugness about the fact that the young wizard hadn't hesitated to sit near her. Neither did he flinch from her closeness.
The group had been diligently working for a few minutes when a throat being cleared disrupted the silence. Ava glanced up to see a familiar looking boy with dark brown hair and matching eyes standing to the side of their table, between herself and Regulus. He looked to be a couple years young than her, and his appearance was all neat and polished. But even with his Slytherin tie, Ava couldn't place him.
"Hey, Rabastan. This is Avalynn McGonagall," Regulus said, gesturing to her. "Ava, this is Rabastan Lestrange."
Oh shit. Duh. Ava whipped up a friendly smile and held out her hand.
He eyed her hand warily and then flicked his dark gaze up to hers as he gripped her hand tightly.
Asshole, she thought, still maintaining her smile through the pain he was purposefully inflicting upon her poor fingers.
Thankfully, he snatched his hand away quickly and turned to Regulus. "I can seek you out some other time. Perhaps in the common room later tonight?"
Sensing an opportunity, Ava waved him off. "Nonsense. You guys can talk now. We're all working on our own things anyway." She shuffled her parchment and books together and shifted them over to clear space for Rabastan. Noticing the silence from the others, she looked up to see Severus and Regulus throwing her knowing expressions and Barty actually appeared to be a little alarmed at the thought of Rabastan joining them.
Even after Regulus seconded her suggestion, Rabastan was hesitant as he swiveled a chair from the table behind them and took a seat between his fellow Slytherin and Ava. She resumed citing evidence for her Astronomy essay and out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Barty and Severus continued working as well. However, she couldn't help but overhear Rabastan asking Regulus about Multicorfors and its spell theory for a Transfiguration assignment.
Professor McGonagall had been insistent that her own niece understand the theories of Transfiguration spells front to back, and in her sleep, so Ava knew fairly well what they were discussing, even if it was a year ahead of her current workload. For a few minutes, she managed to hold her tongue, assuming that Rabastan wouldn't appreciate her butting in, but she couldn't keep to herself any longer when they made an incorrect assumption.
"Regulus, Rabastan," she said softly, grabbing their attention. Regulus had his lips pressed together in a firm line and seemed to be begging her with his eyes to not instigate anything, and Rabastan's face showed clear annoyance at being interrupted. "I just wanted to let you know that the Multicorfors spell doesn't work on the level you're thinking of. Other spells, like Lapifors and Piscifors do, but that's because the spell is physically altering the entire object—well, animal—itself but Multicorfors is magic on a smaller scale. So, the intention behind the spell needs to be different and not necessarily more precise in the manner you were discussing."
Irritation slipped from Rabastan's face, replaced by curiosity. "What do you mean?"
She shifted in her seat. "Well, Multicorfors is just changing the color of the fabric, right? You aren't transfiguring the fabric itself, so in theory, it should be easier. However, if the clothes are being worn, then you have to adjust your intention and visualization of the spell to account for the human body parts that you don't want to change. So, you don't need to be precise with the object you're trying to transfigure, more like you need to be precise about the area around the object you don't want altered."
At this point, even Barty and Severus were listening to her. "It can be easier if you think about the clothes as the individual threads being the object changed, rather than the item of clothing itself. That way, you don't accidentally transfigure it into something else or catch a body part in the process. Your magic can be more focused and precise if you cast the spell like that. I visualize the dye of the color I want seeping into the fabric, slowly spreading and converting into the new color. The magic will stay contained within the threads of the clothing and you shouldn't have any trouble." By the time Ava finished explaining, she could feel her obvious enthusiasm leaking out, resulting in a faint blush rising to her cheeks.
Regulus was watching her with a soft smile and Rabastan's mouth was hanging open slightly.
"That's brilliant, Ava," Barty said.
Brows furrowed, Rabastan seemed to be considering her words, but then his face morphed into a sneer. "I don't recall asking for your help, McGonagall."
She stared at him blankly, keeping a tight rein on her temper. "You're right," she said coolly, catching Regulus's eyebrows raise out of the corner of her eye. She picked up her quill. "There's no need to listen to me, it's not like I live with an expert on the subject or anything." She heard a strangled laugh slip out of Barty, but ignored it and began to read over her essay.
A harsh sigh sounded. "What are your sources?" Rabastan bit out.
Ava peered up at him and rattled off three different texts he could consult to verify her explanation of the spell theory. She took in her friends' faces as the reluctant Slytherin wrote down the titles and authors. Barty's eyes were darting nervously between herself and Rabastan, while the looks shooting her way from Regulus and Severus hinted that she should expect a lecture on how to handle herself around potential Death Eaters once again.
Rabastan disappeared into the shelves and the members of their study group stared at each other silently for a few moments before resuming their work. Not ten minutes later, he returned holding the books she had cited. "I suppose I should thank you, McGonagall," he muttered gruffly.
Not expecting his gratitude, a genuine smile crossed her face as she took in his miffed expression. "You're welcome, Rabastan."
"Hmph. I don't remember inviting you to call me by my first name," he grumbled, sounding more exasperated than truly angry.
There was a beat of tense silence. "Call me Ava, and we'll be even. Sound good, Rabastan?"
The corners of his mouth twitched and then he nodded before opening the first tome in the stack he had brought back.
She smiled to herself, ignoring the stares burning into her from the other occupants of the table. A while later, the newcomer must've decided he'd gotten enough information jotted down and packed up his things. "Bye, Rabastan," she said with a little wave as he departed.
The Slytherin seemed torn between laughter and wanting to throttle her. "Goodbye, Ava," he said in a dry tone.
As he vanished from sight, she continued to proofread her essay. Well, she made it look as though that's what she was busy doing, but she was truly avoiding the stern talking to Severus and Regulus were about to give her. Which is why she was so startled when it was Barty who spoke.
"Ava, you should really be careful how you talk to the older Slytherins."
She glanced at him with widened eyes, noting that his features were dark with worry. She wasn't sure what to say, but it appeared that neither did the other boys since they stayed silent as well.
Barty sighed. "I'm not stupid, you know." He looked at Regulus, then Severus. "I've heard about the political influencer or benefactor, or whatever you'd like to call him, that the older boys whisper about joining once they graduate."
Ava sucked in a breath and grasped his hand. Barty tensed as his head swiveled her direction, though he didn't pull away. "Please tell me no one has spoken to you about this."
He frowned. "They haven't. Why?" He glanced at Severus and Regulus before turning back to her. "What's wrong?"
"Promise me you'll stay away from them."
He stared at her in confusion.
"If they approach you, don't do anything rash, and tell Regulus, Severus, or myself immediately," she pleaded, dreading what the confirmed Death Eaters might do to him.
He opened his mouth and hesitated, looking to the older boys.
She squeezed his hand. "Please, Barty. I don't want to tell you anything more because it's not exactly safe, but there's more going on behind closed doors than even those other guys know." Ava hadn't realized until this moment how much she had come to care about the young Slytherin. He had proven to be a sweet and curious boy who had no business being around Death Eaters. With how often he looked to Severus and Regulus for guidance, she could see how Barty might be swayed with perfectly placed praise from manipulative wizards. She also knew that he hid deep-seated fear and anger towards his father that could be easily twisted. Ava looked into his eyes and said, "I just want to keep you safe, and I'd rather not have to worry about you every time you're out of my sight."
Surprise blossomed over his face before he ducked his head. "You don't have to look out for me," he whispered.
The resigned dejection lacing his tone had her glaring at Severus and Regulus. Boys. Haven't they told him they'd watch his back? She turned back to Barty and gently tugged on his hand, and he peeked up at her. "I want to though. Truly," she told him with a smile. Ava could see pink tinting his cheeks, so she threw him a bone. "Besides, without you as my friend, who else would I have to impress with my knowledge of Charms and Transfiguration?" she asked while flipping her hair over her shoulder.
Without looking, she knew that Severus was the one who scoffed at her declaration and Regulus was chuckling.
She pulled away from Barty and sat back in her seat, pleased with the grin that was stretching across his face.
After a few moments, his expression sobered. "I promise to do as you say, Ava."
Relief flooded her body. "Thank you."
It was only a short while later that their time in the library was up and all four of them headed downstairs for dinner in the Great Hall. The small victory of Barty's promise filled Ava with happiness and following alongside the Slytherins, her mind drifted to other positive thoughts. Her trip to Hogsmeade last weekend had been successful, for both Christmas shopping and for helping her forget about the worries looming over her and the Wizarding World as she traipsed about the village with her friends.
Despite her protests of not wanting to mooch off of Aunt Minerva, the older witch insisted that Ava purchase whatever presents she wanted to, without a worry for the cost. It was apparent that the professor was a fellow fan of the holiday and was in true Christmas spirit as soon as the first day of December rolled around. Her aunt had also explained that she'd had savings accruing for nearly her entire adult life and couldn't think of a better way to spend it other than on Ava.
The young witch had managed to buy gifts for nearly everyone in one trip, with a little help from Remus. She knew that the Marauders were infamous for their pranks, but she hadn't really seen any in action since her arrival. Her werewolf explained that they've been rather distracted this year so far, what with everything going on. So, for Sirius and James's presents, she placed orders for two books about practical jokes, one Wizard and one Muggle, in hopes of getting their creative juices flowing for next semester. She also begged Remus to help her plan a prank to pull on the boys. Which, in hindsight, didn't take much convincing, she realized.
For Lily, Ava thought that a girls' day in Muggle London would be fun. She'd leave it up to the redhead to invite others if she wanted to, but she still needed to figure out which day would work best during the break. Not wanting to leave anyone out, she picked up various candies and chocolates suggested by Remus for the rest of her Gryffindor friends. She didn't really think of Peter as a friend, per se, because they never spent any time together outside of meals in the Great Hall, but she didn't want to exclude him purposefully. I really need to stop avoiding him.
Ava had been living with Professor McGonagall for only a couple weeks or so when she discovered the stash of romance novels on a bookshelf in the older witch's bedroom. Whether they could be considered "trashy" or not, Ava didn't need or want to find out, but for Christmas she ordered the two newest novels by the authors that seemed to be her aunt's favorites. Similar to her idea for Lily, Ava wanted to go on a typical date with Remus in Muggle London. Something simple, like dinner and a movie. She was hoping to spring it on him before Christmas, early in the break so that they could plan other outings as well. But just so he'd have something to open on Christmas Day, she bought some of his favorite chocolate from Honeyduke's under the guise of it being for the others.
For Severus, she had been secretly planning with Regulus to find a rare Potions text that they were going to give him as a joint gift. She'd also found a Muggle book about plants and their medicinal properties that she thought he'd at least find amusing, if not insightful. Ava thought her gift for Regulus was risky—she ordered him a Muggle book about constellations. She was thinking that he'd enjoy it because it included a brief scientific introduction to stars, but also had stories behind the names of the constellations from a few different cultures. Through becoming his friend, she learned that Regulus wasn't prejudiced against Muggles so much as he was wary of them. She mentally shrugged. Probably just cause he hadn't had any real interactions with them. A top secret Christmas gift idea of hers was to get Sirius and Regulus in a room together to finally make amends, but she wasn't sure how she could pull it off.
She shook those thoughts from her head as she trailed into the Great hall behind her Slytherin friends and gave them a wave of goodbye before sitting down at the Gryffindor table.
After dinner, Severus drilled Avalynn on the differences between the Antidote for Common Poisons and the Antidote for Uncommon Poisons as they prepped the worktable for brewing. As she rambled off information, he debated when would be the best time to broach what he thought would be a sensitive topic. During their earlier meal, Lucius had hinted that he was going to extend an invitation to Ava for the New Year's Eve Ball at Malfoy Manor. While he loathed the idea of his best friend being anywhere near people who would gladly see her dead if they knew the truth about her, he also knew that the invitation wasn't truly optional. He mentally scoffed at the idiocy of contemplating such an action. Refusal of the invite would only create more enemies and heighten people's curiosity of the interesting and intelligent Half-blood.
He sighed audibly, his dark eyes following Ava as she gathered ingredients for the potions. There isn't a subtle way of telling her.
She placed down the last of the supplies needed to brew the Antidotes and grabbed a knife. As she held some herbs in place and began to cut them, her hand trembled. With a snarl, the knife clattered to the table and she looked up at him with murder in her gaze. "When will these tremors stop?!" It was a rare occurrence, but every now and then, her nerves would flare up and prevent Ava from keeping a steady hand, as the result of consuming too much extra strength pain potion a couple months ago.
He rolled his eyes at her dramatics. The long-term side effect was gradually fading, she just needed more patience. "It's just as well. I have something to tell you."
She quirked a brow. "Oh?"
"In the coming days, you'll more than likely receive an invitation to Malfoy Manor for the New Year's Eve Ball during break." Ignoring her shocked expression, he continued, "I don't think I have to tell you that it wouldn't be a good idea to decline the offer. It'll only raise questions and draw a target on your back."
Her brows furrowed. "Why would me, a Half-blood, and a McGonagall, be invited to something like that?"
He pinched the bridge of his nose. "Lucius, or potentially someone else, must think that you could be useful on their side of politics, even if you are a Half-blood."
Ava chewed on her lip, lost in thought for a few moments before her face brightened. "Alright, this could work." She nodded. "It's actually a great idea. It'll be easier for us to find the diary Horcrux at the Manor if there's three of us looking rather than just you and Regulus. Now I can help," she told him with a smile. She paced in front of the worktable and muttered something under her breath about Kreacher and Dobby, whoever or whatever that was. Panic settled onto her features as her chest began rising and falling rapidly.
"Ava?" he asked, worry lacing his tone.
She looked to him with wide eyes, taking gulping breaths. "I don't know if I can do this, Severus," she managed to choke out.
As she reached out to steady herself on the table, he rushed forward and wrapped an arm around her, guiding her gently down to the stool. "You're okay, Ava. Take three slow, deep breaths for me." He gently rubbed her back as she followed his orders. "Once more—slow, deep breaths." Merlin, I hate how useless this makes me feel, he thought. "You're safe. And you will be at the Manor." She will be safe. I'll make sure of it.
She let out a shuddering breath. "What if Voldemort's there?" she asked in a small voice.
His heart stuttered, but he shook his head. "I really don't think he'll be there while you are. He'll make an appearance once the party for the public has ended, and I'll have escorted you out of there by then." He felt her tense beneath his hands.
"But you and Regulus will be there? At the revel?"
He frowned. "A 'revel'? There are plans for the Dark Lord's followers to meet with him after the ball—is that what you mean?"
She pulled away from him and tilted her head. "Oh, that's kinda reassuring." She paused. "I guess the Death Eaters aren't that far gone yet."
A chill crept into his bones. "What do you mean?" he asked hesitantly.
Her eyebrows raised. "Oh, you know, the usual," she said in a false, light tone. "Life-threatening punishments or duels between followers, torture of Muggles and people who may stand in his way—," her face seemed to crumple in pain, "—rape," she whispered.
A breath caught in his throat as his stomach soured.
"I—I don't know that for sure, but—," she trailed off, looking at him with wide eyes.
"But it's not a stretch of the imagination," he finished for her.
The silence hung heavy in the room for several long moments before Ava shook herself and pulled away from him, beginning to prepare the ingredients for her potions. He shuffled in next to her at the work table and picked up the pestle and mortar to crush the Bezoar, even though it was a task he'd usually leave for her to complete. As he worked, Severus forced the dark thoughts of who he could've become under the Dark Lord's tutelage to the far recesses of his mind, thanking every deity in the universe once more for bringing Avalynn into his life.
Having left Severus in the dungeons, Ava paced in front of the Room of Requirement, asking for a secure place where she could discuss an important matter with Remus, James, and Sirius. Once she was able to collect her thoughts and let the potions brew, she penned a note to the boys, requesting that they meet with her there. Flopsy had acted as her courier again, and that was just another topic to add to her list of pressing issues at the moment. With the Marauders' cleverness, there must be an easier way for them to communicate.
The door to the Room having appeared, she leaned against the cool stone wall and waited for the boys to join her. She had waited for Severus's mood to lighten while they continued brewing before she sprung on him the fact that she had made a deal with Lucius Malfoy. She described their encounter and explained how the wizard was currently under the impression that she was a Seer. Despite her best friend's initial outrage and name-calling, of both her and Malfoy, he simmered down and admitted that it wasn't a terrible cover under the circumstances. He also appeared contrite once Ava was able to further explain that she had demanded a Wizard's Oath from the arrogant blond Slytherin. Thankfully, Severus was already aware of Malfoy's involvement with Voldemort so she wasn't breaking her side of the Oath.
Even if Voldemort wasn't scheduled to attend the Malfoy's Ball, Ava could feel her stomach fluttering nervously at the idea of making small talk with strangers. Especially Pureblood strangers that would probably look down at her from their uppity noses. Ugh, I'm going to have to be polite, she groaned internally. If she wanted to sneak around the mansion unnoticed, she'd need to blend in with the high society and not draw any unwanted attention her way. Maybe I should get some help, like an etiquette coach or something, she mused. At least I'll have Severus and Regulus with me.
Ava was staring absentmindedly across the corridor, lost in her thoughts when she heard the whoosh of fabric and three figures appeared out of nowhere just a few feet away from her. "Fucking hell!" she yelped, startling and instinctively raising her fists as adrenaline shot throughout her body.
James and Sirius leaned on each other in an attempt to stay upright as they laughed uproariously, with tears in their eyes. "Shoulda seen your face," James breathed out.
She pointed a finger at them with a glare. "Fuck you!" She crossed her arms and turned to the third person, who was blushing and rubbing the back of his neck. "And what do you have to say for yourself, Remus Lupin?" She saw the flicker of a smile dance across his lips and narrowed her eyes.
He cleared his throat. "Sorry," he muttered, giving her a sheepish look.
She sniffed and lifted her chin. "And?" she asked, ignoring the continuous laughter from Sirius and James.
Remus strided over and gathered her in his arms, nuzzling her cheek and neck. "And I won't do it again." Ava was doused in affection through their bond as he nipped her bite mark playfully. "And I'll make it up to you in any way that I can, mate."
Her body relaxed into his. "Damn straight you will," she said, pulling his head away from her shoulder. She reached up to kiss him and let out a noise of contentment when Remus gently pried her lips apart and caressed her tongue with his.
"Oi! We're right here," she heard James groan.
"I dunno, Prongs. I think I might like to watch."
She jerked back from Remus with a surprised chuckle. "Down, Padfoot," she chided, glancing at Sirius's teasing expression.
James and Remus both pulled faces, not pleased with the direction their friend's joke turned. "Ow," the canine Animagus complained as James smacked him on the back of his head.
Remus's fingers tightened around her hips. "Mine," he growled.
"Yours," Ava said, pecking a quick kiss against his mouth before stepping out of his arms. She gestured towards the door behind her. "Let's go. We need to talk."
Still grumbling under his breath, something about gross jokes and friends being like sisters, James shoved past Sirius to follow her and Remus as he stuffed the Invisibility Cloak into his schoolbag.
The magic of the Room was sensitive enough to know that Ava hadn't intended for them to practice dueling like they had the last couple of times when visiting, so it had only created a cozy space for them to chat undisturbed. Two sofas faced each other in front of a roaring fireplace, and Ava plopped herself down as close as she could to the source of warmth.
She only waited for the boys to close the door behind them before speaking. "Severus told me earlier that he thinks I'll be getting an invitation to Malfoy Manor for their New Year's Eve Ball." She let that information sink in for a moment as they took their seats before continuing, "I'm planning on accepting."
Remus tensed next to her and reached out to intertwine their fingers.
"No fucking way," Sirius snapped, sending a hard glare in her direction.
She figured he'd be the biggest protester, and rightfully so, having more experience with the shady people on the guest list.
"I don't like the idea of you being there without me," Remus said.
She looked to him and noticed his eyes flashed amber for a moment.
"Neither does Moony," he added.
She placed her free hand on his arm. "Severus and Regulus will both be there, looking out for me." Sirius scoffed and she whipped her head to glare at him with fiery eyes. "They have my absolute trust and would protect me with their lives, Sirius."
He stared at her for a couple seconds, a storm brewing behind his eyes. "Fine. I suppose Snape has kept you out of trouble so far," he muttered, crossing his arms.
A relieved breath stalled in her throat. That was too easy. Ava observed her friend, waiting for another outburst of emotion. He merely sat there, fuming. Whatever, I'll worry about him later. She shook off the thought and looked to James, who had been curiously quiet the entire conversation so far.
His brow was furrowed. "Why?"
"'Why' what?" Remus voiced from beside her.
"Surely, you guys know by now that Ava doesn't do anything without a reason," James said. "If she thinks that it's necessary for her to go to the party, knowing that there will be dangerous people there, then she probably needs to go. Also, my parents used to go to the Malfoys' Ball every year and nothing ever happened. There will be Ministry officials invited too, so it's not like the assholes are going to do anything that would jeopardize their public standing."
Remus sighed. "He has a point." He gently squeezed Ava's hand. "You're sure that you need to go?"
She nodded. "I can't tell you why though. Not yet at least." Thankfully, they seemed to accept that.
"And Snape and Regulus will watch your back?" her werewolf asked.
"Of course. Severus told me that he'd take me home before the real Death Eater meeting begins."
He nodded. "Alright. That'll make it easier for Moony and me to handle, you coming back to us right after the party."
Ava frowned and tilted her head. "What do you mean 'back to you'?"
Remus mirrored her expression. "Back to the Potters'. Aren't you staying with us over break?" He turned to James. "You said that you invited her."
The Potter heir ran a hand through his hair. "I might've forgotten," he mumbled sheepishly. "But of course she's going to." He glanced at her, confidence dimming. "Right?"
Ava smiled. "I'm allowed to come visit you guys?"
James returned her grin. "Definitely. Mum and Dad owled me last week to let you know you're more than welcome to stay at our house for as long as you want."
Her excitement grew in anticipation of spending time with Remus and her friends outside of school. "That'd be awesome. Will Lily be staying too?"
Mild intoxication seemed to fall over James's face. "Yeah, she'll be there for a few days after Christmas."
Ava huffed out a laugh and snapped her fingers. "Okay, lover boy, focus. As fun as it would be to hang out with you guys all break, I'm gonna stay here with Aunt Minerva until Christmas and then I'll come later on Christmas Day or maybe the day after. Does that sound okay?" Hearing agreements from all around, she said, "And then on New Year's Eve, I'll go to the Malfoys' with Severus and he'll bring me back, as soon as possible. Good?" Not waiting for an actual response, she continued. "I might stay another day or two after that, but then I'll come back to the castle for the rest of the break. I don't want to leave Aunt Minerva all alone that whole time, and I'll probably have some stuff I need to take care of before school starts up again."
All three wizards shot her curious looks and opened their mouths to more than likely ask questions that she didn't want to answer, so she abruptly changed the subject. "Remus and I talked about it already, and I'm going to be in the Shack with you guys next week during the full moon. The whole time."
James looked at the werewolf with wide eyes. "You sure about that, mate?"
Sirius's gaze flicked between Ava and Remus and settled back on her. "Do you think it'll help? Being with him during the transformation?"
She recalled how gentle he was with her last time, helping her down to the Shack, and the guilt that weighed on his conscious because of the pain she endured. She gave him a faint smile. "I hope so."
"What do we tell Peter?" James asked.
She tensed and eyed Remus as she built up her mental wall, hoping he couldn't feel the emotions that the rat Animagus brought to the surface. "What do you mean? I thought he knew that Remus and I are mates."
Her werewolf nodded. "He does, but I'm not sure he understands all that it entails. I'm sure he'll be curious as to why you're risking being in the Shack as a human during my transformation."
Ava scrunched up her face. "Do you need to explain every little detail of our bond to him?" She couldn't help but be wary of oversharing information with Peter.
Remus's green eyes widened minutely as his brows raised. "No, never. I would never put our relationship on display for anyone." He glanced to his friends sitting across from them. "Not unless it was something that you wanted me to share."
She could tell what he want hinting at. She trusted James and Sirius enough, but why not Peter? Before she was able to think of a decent explanation and placate the boys, Sirius piped up.
"Why don't you want Peter to know?" he asked with a frown. "Matter of fact, why don't you ask him to come with us whenever we meet up for dueling practice or just catching up, like right now?"
Ava reinforced her mental shield with everything she had, effectively closing the bond between herself and Remus. Judging by his surprised intake of breath, she had succeeded. A little too much, she realized. Slowly, she let a smidgen of trepidation leak through their connection. "I guess I just don't really know him that well. We don't spend much time together, but I have with you guys and I trust you three completely." She shrugged, feigning nonchalance.
James chuckled. "Then we'll just have to fix that, won't we?"
She tried to smile. "Yeah, I suppose."
"Well, Christmas break should be good for some bonding time," Sirius said, seeming to watch Ava carefully. His smile seemed as forced as hers was.
"Yeah, and you could spend some time studying with us," Remus added. She must've looked shocked because he laughed. "Since we've got exams right before break, even these guys will be studying."
She huffed out a laugh. "Alright, I suppose it wouldn't be a hardship to hang out with all four of the famous Marauders more often."
"As per your request m'lady," James announced, jumping up from his seat and taking a low bow, "the world renown Marauders would be honored to keep your company in the coming weeks."
Ava shook her head with mirth and stood from the couch. Glancing to Sirius, then Remus, she said, "I know you guys aren't exactly onboard with the idea of the New Year's Eve Ball, but thank you for understanding. We should all head back to our rooms though. I've got a couple more assignments I need to do." She gave them pointed looks. "And I'm sure you do too."
Remus shook his head with a smile as Sirius and James groaned, despite following Ava to the door. They all shuffled out of the Room, not worrying about using James's cloak since it was a while before curfew, and discussed their upcoming exams until James and Sirius broke off to continue onto the Gryffindor Common Room while Remus walked with Ava to her quarters. She inquired about his plans for Christmas break and found out that he would be staying with his family until Christmas evening, then he was going to head over to the Potters'. Thinking about celebrating the holiday brought forth memories of past Christmases, back in her own world.
"Why are you sad, Ava?" he asked, pulling their intertwined fingers up and kissing the back of her hand.
She gave him a soft smile. "Christmas is my favorite holiday, and while I'm glad that I'll get to spend it with some of those I care about, I'm still upset that I won't be seeing my family or friends. From my world, I mean. I think it's safe to say that you and the boys, and the others, have become either part of my family or my friends, but I still miss them."
Remus pressed his lips together as they descended yet another staircase. "I desperately wish that I could take your pain and sorrow away." He let out a low growl and tugged his hand from hers. "This is all my fault."
"Don't even start with that bullshit, Remus," she told him in a voice hard as stone. "You are not to blame for anything that's happened. No one really is."
"But James and—"
"But nothing," she said, her hand cutting through the air. "They had no idea that the spell could pull someone from another world." She laughed. "They didn't even know other worlds existed. How could I be mad at them for just trying to make you happy?" She paused in the corridor and turned to him, cupping his cheek. "I might miss my family and friends terribly, but I also wouldn't want to give up what I have with you." Pure love and adoration flooded their bond, causing a smile to break out on Ava's face. "I love you, Remus Lupin, my mate."
He leaned into her hand, eyes flashing amber briefly. "I love you too, mate."
She popped up on her tiptoes to kiss him, wanting to show her werewolf how much she felt for him when a throat cleared. Ava turned to tell off whoever interrupted them when she spotted Professor Flitwick watching them with an amused expression. She jumped back from Remus as if burned. "Oh! Sorry, Professor."
"I was just escorting Miss McGonagall to her rooms, Professor Flitwick," Remus said in an unaffected tone, surprising Ava since she could feel his embarrassment trickling across their connection.
The short wizard chuckled and waved his hand. "Then I suggest you do so before curfew, Mr. Lupin. Go on you two."
She and Remus strode past their teacher and had to keep themselves from laughing when Flitwick gave a happy sigh and muttered, "Ah, young love."
Once around the corner and out of earshot, they released their giggles from the awkward encounter. Continuing towards her quarters, the conversation drifted back to Christmas.
"Why is it your favorite holiday?" her thoughtful werewolf asked.
She smiled and took a deep breath, ready to launch into the best parts of the holiday with a little more spring in her step.
Remus chuckled and squeezed her hand. "I love how you feel and show your enthusiasm with your whole body."
Ava could feel her cheeks flushing, knowing that her complete devotion to certain things could be a bit much sometimes. Like Christmas… or learning magic…or Harry Potter…or Supernatural or Percy Jackson. She sighed internally. Such is the life of a fangirl. "It's healthy to have interests I'll have you know."
"It's adorable," he rushed to say, seeming to worry that he had offended her. She was about to let him know that she was just teasing when he continued. "Your eyes light up like your very soul has been invigorated, and you can't keep all of your excitement to yourself. You love it so much that you just can't help but want to share it with others, and I think that's amazing. I hope that you'll always share your favorite things with me."
Her heart swelled. "Always."
"Good," he said with a smile. "Now, what is it about Christmas that you love so much?"
"More like, what's not to love? The whole atmosphere of the holiday is great. The cold weather, music, and lights. Not to mention, the cookies and hot chocolate. When there's snow, it's even better."
"I'll warn you now that we take snowball fights rather seriously here at Hogwarts."
She beamed. "Awesome." Thoughts of how magic could make the fights even more fun whirled through her mind before she shook her head and carried on. "I know it might sound bad, but I also love the presents part of Christmas. First off, because I love seeing how everyone reacts to the gifts I pick out for them. I always try to choose ones that aren't on their list so it'll surprise them, but close enough so that they'll still be happy with it. But second of all, I like getting presents too." She scoffed. "Who doesn't?"
He chuckled. "I suppose that's true."
"There's just something about getting all cozy inside with your family and friends, and crowding around the tree, that I love. Oh, and all of the decorations. The trees and garland and lights everywhere. It's always so pretty while you're walking around shopping and then you go home, and it's the same, just more personal." Her face dropped. "My mom and I always put our tree up together while listening to our favorite Christmas music." She could feel her sadness reflected through their bond as they stopped in front of her quarters.
"I'm so sorry, Ava," Remus murmured, wrapping her in his warm arms.
She leaned her cheek against his chest and squeezed him back. "I know, but you don't have to be." She fought back tears, not wanting to upset him even further. She discreetly used the sleeve of her robe to wipe away the wetness gathering at her eyes and pulled back from Remus. "I love you," she told him before slanting her lips across his.
He held her close as they shared a slow kiss, his touch and magic minutely soothing her distressed mind. "I love you too," he said, voice thick with emotion.
Worried that she'd burst into sobs at any moment, Ava placed a chaste kiss to his lips and stepped out of his embrace, turning towards the door to her rooms. "I'll see you tomorrow," she said over her shoulder in what she hoped was a cheery tone.
Judging by the pained smile on his face, she hadn't succeeded. "See you tomorrow."
She rushed out the password and stepped into her quarters, bracing herself against the closed door with her eyes squeezed shut so tightly, she saw streaks of color. Ava carefully reinforced her mental shield before allowing her grief to burst forth, causing her to slide to the floor with a sob. She didn't want to burden Remus, making him feel even worse about the whole situation.
Letting the strap from her schoolbag slide off her shoulder, she pulled her knees up to her chest and rested her arms and head atop them, curling into herself. I miss them. I miss them SO damn much. Eyes stinging and nose running, she cried, once again mourning the life and family that she lost. It had only been a couple of months, but Ava thought she was doing better. Sure, she had pangs of sadness and longing crop up every now and then, but she always managed to brush them aside using her friends or homework as a distraction. And that's the problem, she realized. I'm just pushing off the grief until I can't hold it back anymore.
Ava let go of her shame and stubbornness, allowing herself to cry earnestly. There was no reason for her to keep all of her feelings bottled up and contained so tightly. I'm allowed to miss them. And I'm allowed to be happy here. I can feel both. She didn't know if she truly believed that, or if she was merely tricking herself so she wouldn't feel guilty. It was a relief to let her misery drain out of her body completely, leaving her with no more tears to shed after who knows how long. She sniffled and wiped her nose, lifting her shoulders and arching her back, which had started to ache from her position.
Her eyes bounced around the room, realizing that she hadn't even noticed whether or not Aunt Minerva was there. Movement caught her eye and she looked towards the fireplace. She could've sworn that something or someone had shifted in the portrait, but finding it empty, she shook her head. Must've just been the flicker of the flames from the fire. Ava took a deep, quivering breath and stood.
"You're good," she told herself, picking up her bag from the floor. "You just need to keep going. Just gotta keep learning and practicing, and Voldemort will fall. Keep moving forward and everything will be fine." Without further delay, Ava sat in the chair closest to the fire and took out her ink and quill, along with her History of Magic essay, and she got to work.
