The Other World

SUMMARY:

Sirius Black son of Orion Black falls through The Veil and is reborn as Sirius Black son of Regulus Black in the other world. And well, wherever Sirius goes, Sirius is Sirius.

Author's Note: Italics are thoughts of people when story is from their POV. English is not my native language. Since I have written after quite a long break, i think there might be more mistakes. Hope they are bearable.

THANKS for reviewing and everybody who favorited or followed the story despite its shortcomings

This chapter is dedicated both to all the people who reviewed and favorited this story .

I apologize for such a long delay and I hope you enjoy the chapter. I promise you wont have to wait for so long for the next chapter.

Thanks a lot

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Sirius Black POV

The Dueling Championship was now talk of the school. All houses were fiercely supporting their champions; sometimes even fighting or dueling in the hallways or in the classrooms. The competition roster was announced. Three days before the event, lottery was to be held in which every member was to pick a number. The one who picked number 1 would duel number 11, number 2 will duel 10, number 3 will duel 9, number 4 will duel 8, number 5 will duel 7 while number 6 will be free for the first round. Second round will have duel between winner of 1 – 11 and 6 , 2-10 winner and 5-7 winner, 3-9 winner with 4-8 winner. In third round winner of match between 1-11 winner & 6 will duel winner of match between 3-9 and 4-8. Final round would be between the winner of match between 2-10 & 5-7 and winner of third round.

Invitations had been sent to the families of the students. Moody and Professor Flitwick were chosen as the judges whereas Kingsley had been invited as a referee. Chief Guest was Minister of Magic, Fudge. Chief Healer, Mrs. Potter had been invited to heal the students in case of emergency. Staff and houses elves could be seen preparing for the event.

The night of lottery came. The champions were called forward to pick numbers. Sirius went and picked a number. He could see Remus smiling at him. Sirius saw that his number was 10. Finally, all the numbers were announced.

1 – Jeremy Stretton, Ravenclaw : Septima Vector

2 – Albus Pettigrew, Gryffindor : Quirinus Quirrell

3 – Cedric Diggory, Hufflepuff: Pomona Sprout

4 – Robert Hugh, Hufflepuff : Gilderoy Lockhart

5 – Percy Weasley, Gryffindor : Albus Dumbledore

6 – Jacob Watson, Ravenclaw : Filius Flitwick

7 – Rosalene Lestrange, Slytherin : Bathsheda Babbline

8 – Romeo Lestrange, Slytherin : Severus Snape

9 – Marcus Flint, Slytherin : Silvanus Kettleburn

10 – Sirius Black, Ravenclaw : Remus Lupin

11 – Oliver Wood, Gryffindor : Minerva Mcgonagall

The day of Dueling Championship was finally here. Everybody was excited. Hogwarts was decorated regally. The ceremony would start at 10:00 AM. The Quidditch pitch had a big round stage in the center. It was surrounded by seats for audiences. The different colors of the houses made the arena festive. Opening speaker was Dumbledore who would then invite the Chief Guest, Minister Fudge to say a few words. The referees, judges and participants would then be introduced to the crowd. Finally, the Championship matches will begin.

After second round of duels, there would be lunch break and all guests would move to Great Hall. The kitchen staff had told Sirius about the menu system for the lunch. Menu cards were placed on tables and guests could order anything they want on the card. They showed Sirius the menu card that had cuisines and desserts from all over the world like Sushi from Japan or Kushar from Egypt or Tiramisu from Italy to Gelatto from San Gimignano.

Sirius was looking forward to meet his family. All the participants of Dueling Championship had been given special robes to wear during the event.

The students were excited. The buzz in the air during breakfast made it evident. After breakfast, students started to move towards the Quidditch pitch. Another group of students who were part of welcoming committee moved towards entrance of arena to help the guests.

The teachers and their Champions moved to a tent on the corner of arena. They were again told the schedule and asked to behave properly. Remus had asked him if he was nervous, to which he had clearly replied 'No'.

Finally, the announcement was made and all participants were asked to walk on stage with their respective mentors. Sirius was with Remus but he was looking at the crowd to find his family. As soon as his eyes met his parents and grandparents, he waved at them. They waved back wishing him luck. Amelia Moody was also sitting with them. He saw that even Silver, Twinky and Kreacher were there. Silver seemed quite popular among crowds and many people were looking at the beautiful phoenix by getting up from their seats, turning around and so on. Sirius knew why his father had brought Silver with him and that made him smile. Sirius saw Remus and Regulus greeting each other with a nod.

His eyes fell on judges' panel and he winked at Moody, which earned him a grunt from the former Auror. All participants and their mentors were introduced. Rat Jr. earned quite an applause from the families being son of the Chosen One and all. Each House, however, supported their housemates fervently. Then they all were made to sit a little further from the stage.

Finally, the first round started.

1st Duel : Jeremy Stretton vs Oliver Wood

Jeremy and Oliver walked towards the stage. The crowd was going wild particularly the Gryffindors and Ravenclaws. Kingsley was standing in the middle of stage. As soon as both participants reached the stage, he told them about the general rules like not using unforgivables, dark magic, etc. As soon as both of them bowed to each other as per dueling etiquette, the intense duel started. Both of them were evenly matched. Jeremy got Oliver with a jelly-legs jinx but Oliver made him slip with the tripping jinx as he was falling. Jeremy lost his balance and Oliver finally threw a full-body bind spell on him. The duel had been so spectacular and intense that it took crowd a moment to realize that it was over. Judges announced Oliver Wood as winner of the duel. The roars from Gryffindor and their families were deafening. Minnie was beaming at Oliver Wood and clapping on his back. Professor Vector was consoling Jeremy that he had fought well. Jeremy, on his way back to Ravenclaw stand, looked at Sirius and Jacob and gave them thumbs up with a small sad smile. Sirius stood on his seat and clapped for Jeremy with Jacob following the suit.

Announcement was made for second duel.

2nd Duel : Albus Pettigrew vs Sirius Black

Remus patted him on the back and wished him best of luck. Sirius smirked at him.

Remus said, "Ok, this smirk; what are you up to?"

Sirius replied in a silky voice," Moony, I am just thinking about rainbows."

Quirrell, on the other hand, was saying to Rat Jr.," Do you….you …. remember all …..that …..we discussed. I expect….an…. an ….excellent ….performance from you….you."

Rat Jr. said confidently," Leave it to me, Professor Quirrell."

The announcer has termed it as the 'Duel of the Century' saying that it was the really a battle of light vs dark making many in audience roll their eyes and many pure-blood families laugh. Sirius was smirking at this supposed 'duel of the century'. Rat Jr. was looking at him as if he was trying to intimidate him or something. Sirius ignored him. Kingsley again started to repeat the rules but was interrupted by Rat Jr.

Rat Jr. used sonorous charm so that his voice would be heard clearly in the arena and said," This duel is important to me because today I face a dark wizard."

Sirius rolled his eyes.

Rat Jr continued, moving his hand like he was doing Opera or something," I am only eleven years old but I have to live up to the expectations that are put on me. I am the warrior of light. Despite my age, today I will defeat this dark wizard. Today I will prove that I am my father's son. THAT I AM SON OF THE CHOSEN ONE."

Kingsley look at him confused. Gryffindor and Chose One's supporters applauded loudly. Gryffindor stands were shouting," Pettigrew, Pettigrew."

Ravenclaws and Slytherins were laughing. Moody and Flitwick looked as confused as Kingsley did.

Sirius was having a hard time controlling his laugh realizing what kind of performance Quirrell wanted from Rat Jr.

Quirrell is evil.

Sirius looked towards his family; they were not laughing like others and supported stoic expressions but there was hint of anger in their eyes. His eyes caught someone trying to catch his attention by waving wildly at him. It was Barty Crouch Jr. Apparently he had really come to see the championship.

Kingsley asked Sirius," How old are you?"

Sirius answered," Eleven."

Kingsley shook his head but he could see amusement on his face.

Rat Jr, threw a spell at Sirius that he lazily avoided and in return sent a spell at Rat Jr. that turned his hair red.

Sirius heard Moody say," I should have known that he won't take it seriously at all."

Rat Jr. did not know why people were laughing. He then threw a stunner at Sirius which again Sirius avoided turning Rat Jr's face orange. Rat Jr. was losing his temper. After exchange of few spells Rat Jr., now, had red hair, orange face, yellow neck, green torso, blue hands, Indigo legs and violet feet.

Rat Jr's nostrils flared in anger and he started to say some curse but was cut off by Sirius' stunner.

"You really are your father's son," said Sirius to petrified rainbow-colored Rat Jr and smirked.

Apparently, dark side has won and it seemed like announcer did not know how to comment. Moody finally announced Sirius as the winner.

Sirius looked towards his family and smiled. He could see amusement in their eyes. They were clapping loudly for him. Ravenclaws were also overjoyed. Sirius chose this moment to look towards supporters of Rat Jr. Chose One seemed furious and his wife was making her way towards judges and referee, most probably to complain. James Potter was trying to calm the Chosen One down while trying his best to hide his smile. Lily seemed indifferent. Sirius walked backed towards the champions stand seeing Remus, Snivellus and Quirrell sharing smirks.

Lockhart walked towards Sirius and said loudly, "Excellent, Sirius. Just as I taught you." Sirius only smiled but did not comment.

Remus clapped him on the back and said "So this is what you meant by rainbow."

Sirius gave him his best Marauder smirk.

This is the only thing I can do in front of so many people. Can't exactly display advanced magic.

3rd Duel : Cedric Diggory vs Marcus Flint

The third duel was quite one-sided. Cedric Diggory easily outclassed Marcus Flint and won. Hufflepuff were elated at the victory of their house-mate.

4th Duel : Robert Hugh vs Romeo Lestrange

This duel started as both participant being equal but as it progressed Romeo easily got the upper hand and won.

5th Duel : Percy Weasley vs Rosalene Lestrange

This duel was just like the first one. Both competitors were equally matched. Moreover, it was Grfffyindor vs Slytherin so the crowd was more rowdy than usual. However, in the end Percy Weasley won.

After the first round, there was half an hour break where house-elves were serving drinks to the guests. Sirius decided to go and meet his family.

As soon as he reached them, his parents fiercely hugged him. His grandparents and Amelia congratulated him on his win. Sirius told them not to drink anything except water during lunch. His father asked him to elaborate but he said it would be a nice surprise. Announcement was made regarding second round so Sirius headed back.

Second Round

1st Match : Oliver Wood vs Jacob Watson

Now Oliver Wood was a very good duelist but when it came to facing Jacob, he fell short. It was evident that among all the duelists that have participated today, Jacob Watson was the best. The duel was short and Jacob won easily. The duel between Sirius and Rat Jr. was more of a joke so both of them were not even being considered as a threat.

Sirius and Percy were called to stage.

2nd Match : Sirius Black vs Percy Weasley

When Sirius reached stage, Moody called him on the side and started lecturing him on his non-serious behavior. Kingsley, after few minutes, asked Sirius to come and take his place. Sirius was walking towards his position and still looking towards Moody who was busy threatening him that suddenly he heard 'SECTUMSEMPRA' and the spell hit him. Suddenly another spell hit him followed by Cruciatus curse. Sirius fell backwards with his blood splattered across him. He lost consciousness after he saw black feathers.

Silver!

Sirius did remember waking up but he had been too drowsy. And every time he stirred, he was made to drink some potion. He did not know how much time had passed in this blurred state.

Sirius then finally woke up. He looked around to find that hospital wing was quite crowded. His father sitting on his left side in a chair with his head in his hands, his grandparents were sitting on a sofa near the window, Mr. and Mrs. Lestrange were sitting next to them, Mr. and Mrs. Malfoy were sitting on chairs behind Regulus and Mr. and Mrs. Moody were standing on the far corner and quietly discussing something with Remus and Barty Crouch Junior. Just then, his mother entered with Mrs. Potter and her eyes fell on him.

Marlene said hurriedly while walking towards him, "Sirius."

On that, Regulus raised his head and looked towards him. Regulus got up and hugged him. He didn't need to say anything because Sirius understood how he had been feeling from the hug. Marlene joined them.

Bellatrix asked," How are you feeling, Sirius?"

Sirius noted that she was actually worried about him. She and Narcissa had dark circles under their eyes.

Sirius smiled and said," I am feeling fine, thanks Aunt Bella."

Mrs. Potter then moved forward and smiled brightly at him, which was returned by Sirius. She started casting different diagnostic spells on Sirius.

Sirius looked around the room to see relief on faces of all the people in the hospital wing.

All these people really care about me….?

After a while, everyone settled down.

Sirius asked," What happened?"

Regulus replied," You were hit by three dark spells continuously by that Weasley boy. He was, apparently, under Imperius curse. You have been unconscious for three days."

Rodulphous said in a slightly angry tone," I checked myself that he was under Imperious curse else I would have never believed them."

Lucius said, "What is Dumbledore even doing as Headmaster? Strange and dangerous keep happening in Hogwarts."

Marlene said, "We can discuss all this later. How about all of us have lunch together with Sirius. Aunt Mia, can Sirius eat normal meals or do we need to prepare something special for him?"

Mrs. Potter replied," He can eat whatever he wants. He is fine now. We should thank Silver for that."

Sirius said," Silver."

Just then the beautiful bird flew and sat on Sirius' bed.

Sirius patted Silver and thanked him.

Meanwhile, Dumbledore came into the hospital wing. The Black family had clear dislike on their faces.

Moody greeted him.

Dumbledore said," How is Mr. Black feeling now?"

Regulus replied with venomous tone, "He is well. No thanks to you though."

Moody placed his hand on Regulus' shoulder. Regulus moved away.

Just as Moody was about to say something, Sirius cut him off and said in a worried tone," Wait, if I was unconscious for three days, does that mean that I missed my birthday."

That made everybody in room laugh or smile.

Marlene ruffled his hair and said with a smile," How about we celebrate your birthday right now?"

Then Marlene looked at Dumbledore and said," Professor, I hope you don't mind but ..."

This time Dumbledore cut her off and said with a smile," Go ahead and celebrate. Don't worry about anything, Marlene. In fact, Mr. Black, why don't you ask your friends to join in, too?"

Marlene thanked Dumbledore.

Sirius said," Can't we have this birthday party somewhere else rather than the hospital wing?"

Regulus smiled, "Where do you want to have it?"

Narcissa suggested," How about next to Black Lake. Weather is good today. It would be like family picnic."

Sirius said," That's awesome idea, Aunt Cissa."

Marlene asked Dumbledore for permission again which he happily gave. Sirius could see that others would have done it even if Dumbledore won't have given permission.

Marlene asked whom Sirius wanted to invite.

Sirius replied, "I don't know. All the Ravenclaws, Neville, Robert, Draco, Milly, I think."

There was a smile on Regulus' face.

Remus and Barty Crouch Junior got up and said that they will help Marlene in arranging things. Amelia, Narcissa and Bellatrix also joined them.

Lockhart and Quirrell entered after few minutes. Lockhart loudly stating what he would do the person who did this. After general formalities, Sirius asked them to join the party, too.

Just then, the door of hospital wing opened with a bang revealing Dorcas who ran towards him and hugged him.

Sirius said," Are you trying to crush me?"

She smiled and said," If you get hurt like this again, I might as well do that. I don't care what you have to do, keep yourself safe.

After an hour, arrangements had been. Sirius saw that whole staff was attending. All Ravenclaws were there as well all Slytherins. Neville was smiling at him.

Twinky jumped at him as soon as she saw Sirius. Sirius returned the hug enthusiastically. Kreacher was also there. Silver flew and sat on his shoulder.

It was a wonderful party.

Sirius learnt that Romeo has won the Dueling Championship. Jacob was second while Cedric was third. Sirius was surprised that Jacob did not win. Jeremy told him that all Ravenclaws were too distracted after Sirius' incident to duel or look at duels. Sirius tried to apologize but Jacob scolded him that it was in no way his fault. They also told him that Percy was now in St. Mungos as multiple stunners had hit him. Moody added that it was good that the kid went down after three stunners hit him else he would have died if any more of them had hit him as more than ten people had thrown stunners at him within seconds. Jacob also thanked him in a teasing tone for turning them all into animals at the lunch in the Great Hall. Sirius was sad that he missed the prank and reactions on the said prank. Ethan, however, made him happy by showing him a picture of Snivellus turned into bat. Sirius told them that they all turned into their patronus forms.

Meanwhile, Sirius noticed his father looking at him and smiling.

He went to his father and asked him," Why are you smiling like this?"

Regulus replied," I am just happy that you are having fun at Hogwarts."

Sirius said in a teasing tone," Where is my birthday present by the way?"

Regulus laughed and said, "All your presents are in your dormitory."

Sirius and Regulus then kept chatting for a while.

The party ended.

Since Sirius was feeling better, his family decided to go back. Madam Pomfrey gave him permission to stay in his dormitory. He just had to come for daily checkups for a week.

He bid his family farewell. All of them asked him to be careful. Regulus asked Remus to take care of Sirius. To which Remus replied that he did not even have to ask.

After that incident at the Dueling Championship, Sirius had noticed that whenever Remus was free he was loitering around Sirius. Sirius found this somewhat irritating. Even though he knew, that Remus will not reprimand him if he sees him doing some kind of prank.

One morning, when Sirius was having breakfast, he heard people gasp when owls started to deliver posts. Looking up, he saw that Robert has received a howler and was looking at it with utmost horror. When the howler started speaking that horror was mirrored on many people in the Great Hall.

It was cold voice of Bellatrix. Bellatrix was not shouting or anything like Walburgha Black used to do in her howlers but the voice was cold enough to make the weak-hearted even faint, which is what happened to one of the Hufflepuff girl.

"ROBERT, DRACO, DON'T DISAPPOINT ME. IF I RECEIVE ONE MORE LETTER FROM SEVERUS REGARDING YOUR EDUCATIONAL COMPETENCE BEING LOWER THAN MUDBLOODS AND BLOOD TRAITORS, YOU KNOW WHAT WILL HAPPEN. YOU CANT BE BLACK LIKE SIRIUS BUT YOU CAN ATLEAST TRY TO BE LIKE HIM. TAKE CARE OF SIRIUS FOR ME."

Sirius didn't know whether to frown or laugh at the howler but he did saw many people avoiding him more than usual after that. It painfully reminded him of what he has been running away from in his previous life. Nevertheless, what good had it did him. Nothing. His fight, his struggle, everything was for naught just because he was a Black. However, this time he had no desire to run from his family name, Black. Yes, Blacks were the most powerful wizards and they liked dabbling in obscure forms of magic.

So what? Deal with it!

That evening when he went to library to meet Neville, he saw his two cousins at the table holding their heads in their hands. Since Sirius had read all the books in the library, he only went there to help Neville.

Sirius asked them," What's wrong? Why so gloomy? "

Draco replied, " We are doomed. "

Sirius snickered and asked," Your gloom tells of your doom. But enlighten me."

Robert replied, " You know that results of quizzes were sent to our parents. "

Sirius replied, " Oh! That explains the howler. But who cares about grades."

Draco and Robert gave him an annoyed look.

Robert said," Not everybody has parents like you."

Draco added," My parents love me but father would be quite angry that I was bested by a mudblood witch again."

Sirius inwardly cringed at hearing the word ''mudblood'.

Sirius said," Don't use that word. Elaborate properly. "

Robert sighed and said," The top student of our year until now is that Granger girl. My mother is not very happy about that."

Sirius asked, " What are your positions?"

Draco replied, "Granger is first, Robert is second, Potter is third, Patil from Ravenclaw is fourth and I am fifth. "

Sirius laughed, "These are good results. You are in top five. "

Robert said,"Let me guess you are the top student of your year, right?"

Sirius nodded.

Just then, a very cheerful Neville entered and got infuriated looks from Robert and Draco.

Neville said, "What's wrong with you two?"

Sirius said, "They are worried about results. "

Neville said," Oh! It's understandable as both of their position declined unlike me. Robert was first last year and Draco was third."

Robert was rubbing his forehead while Draco had his head in his hands again.

Sirius asked Neville about result.

Neville said," I was eleventh last year but this time I am sixth. Just behind Draco. "

Draco gave a long sigh and said," I was scolded by my father last year for not beating Robert. I didn't tell him about who had the second position. However, this year our Head of House decided that we needed proper motivation so he sent the list of top ten students to all Slytherin parents. There were only three Slytherin in the top ten, Robert, Miss Greengrass and me. Professor Snape was angry that Gryffindor had four."

Sirius said, "Count on Snivellus to make things difficult for students at home, too."

Neville snorted while Robert and Draco gave him confused looks.

Neville said," Snivellus is Sirius' nickname for Professor Snape. "

Robert said," He is my favorite teacher but right now I want to call him Snivellus. "

Sirius said tilting his chair on two legs," But why are you two so worried? I agree, you guys don't study like her all the time but your magic is more powerful than her magic. You can easily beat her in practical exams."

Robert gave him an irritated look and said," Practical exams? You know that they are a joke in Hogwarts, don't you? They asked us in first year finals to convert beetle into button. One does not need powerful magic to do that. Until 5th year, we would be doing these childish things."

Sirius snickered.

Neville said," And Sirius, her magic is not that weak."

Sirius replied," But still her magic is weaker than their magic. Though I agree, difference won't be obvious until they start advanced magic."

Robert said in a defeated tone, "Will I even be alive to learn advanced magic", making Sirius and Neville laugh.

Neville said in an amused tone," Does that mean that you two will now be permanent fixtures in the library?"

Draco sighed and said," Not possible for me. I get a headache if I spend more than an hour on any book not written by Bronte Charles. Besides, Aunt Bella may have threatened me but she can't do anything to me."

Sirius laughed and looked towards Robert saying," Want me to talk to Aunt Bella? I can explain it to her that there is difference in being bookish smart and being magically power."

Suddenly Robert looked hopeful and said," You will do that for me?"

Sirius said," Of course, I will. But I am sure Aunt Bella won't do anything to her only son. I can ask dad to talk to her, too. You know she loves my dad more than her own siblings. Besides, after the dueling championship fiasco, everybody suddenly does whatever I ask them to do."

Robert relaxed.

Neville said in a fake-innocent voice," Besides, she just asked you to be like Sirius. Not difficult at all."

This made all three of them laugh and well, Madam Pince angry who threw them out of library.

However, Robert did end up becoming a permanent fixture in the library.

The investigation pertaining to the dragon incident was still going on. Remus had told Sirius that even he had been asked to come to Ministry to give statement. One evening, he saw Dumbledore and Quirrell leaving Hogwarts discussing something about Ministry. Sirius thought that they must have been called for hearing at Ministry. When they were having dinner that night, suddenly Filch's scream filled the Great Hall startling everybody.

Teachers, at once, got up. Filch came running.

Minnie asked Filch as what was going on.

"A big snake took two students," said Filch shaking with fear.

Sirius' eyes widened.

The basilisk….

Remus asked," What are you talking about, Filch? Where did it take the students?"

Filch took Remus, Severus, Professor Flitwick, Lockhart and Minnie with him while other teachers were asked to make sure that all students went to their dormitories. Minnie, however, sent a patronus to Dumbledore before leaving.

Sirius opened Marauder's Map as soon as he reached his room to see that Lockhart was heading towards his room while others were in Moaning Myrtle's bathroom.

I ll add that chamber of secrets to map, too.

Sirius took some Polyjuice Poition, cast disillusionment charm on himself and went straight to Lockhart's room. As soon as he entered the room, he saw that Lockhart was packing his stuff. Sirius rolled his eyes. Lockhart looked at him and was about to say something that Sirius put full bodybind curse on him. Sirius then drank Polyjuice Potion with Lockhart hair. Lockhart was looking at him with wide eyes.

Sirius ran towards Moaning Mrytle's bathroom in Lockhart's form. When he reached there, he saw that the sink had been destroyed exposing a large pipe wide enough for man to slide in. He hurriedly slid in to the pipe. It was like rushing down an endless, slimy, dark slide. He could see more pipes branching off in all directions, but none as large as the one he was sliding in, which twisted and turned, sloping steeply downward, and he knew that he was falling deeper below the school than even the dungeons. He suddenly hit the ground, landing on the damp floor of a dark stone tunnel large enough to stand.

"Lumos," his voice echoed.

The tunnel was so dark that he could only see a little distance ahead. After walking some distance, he saw a gigantic snakeskin, of a vivid, poisonous green, lying curled and empty across the tunnel floor. Basilisk was around twenty feet long.

Then, at last, as he crept around yet another bend, he saw a solid wall ahead on which two entwined serpents were carved, their eyes set with great, glinting emeralds. The wall between these snakes had a huge hole like someone has broken it with a spell. Sirius moved inside a very long dimly lit chamber. Towering stone pillars entwined with more carved serpents rose to support a ceiling lost in darkness, casting long, black shadows through the odd, greenish gloom that filled the place. A statue high as the Chamber was standing against the back wall. Giant face of the statue was ancient and monkeyish, with a long, thin beard that fell almost to the bottom of the wizard's sweeping stone robes, where two enormous gray feet stood on the smooth Chamber floor.

He looked at the scene before him. Minnie had been turned to stone. Professor Flitwick was fighting to defend her and get her out of path of raging basilisk. Remus and Snivellus were slightly injured but were continuously sending spells to distract the basilisk. He saw unconscious Hermione and Rat Jr. behind Remus and Snivellus. Despite the hostages, they were not struggling at all.

Sirius pulled out his wand and threw a spell from Godric's guide non-verbally. The basilisk at once stopped.

Thanks to Godric's obsession with snakes… they have been covered in the guide most extensively.

Snivellus and Remus looked towards him and they looked very surprised to see Lockhart there.

Lockhart said in a very un-Lockhart voice," Stop looking at me and kill the damn snake already."

Sirius could have killed the basilisk but he did not want to cast any more spells, which might not be possible or even known by Lockhart. Teaching Lockhart would be a pain.

Remus then at once send a slashing spell at the basilisk. It only injured the basilisk. This, however, made basilisk more difficult to control for Sirius as it started resisting Sirius' spell.

Severus and Remus started sending cutting, killing, whatever hexes they could think of at the snake, whereas, Sirius was happy that the chamber was dimly lit as he had by now activated three runes on his wand. Soon Professor Flitwick joined them after placing Minnie away from the duel at a safe distance. Finally, the snake was down. Sirius acted like he was exhausted. He put his hand on one of the pillars for support but then suddenly Remus came to him and hugged him.

Remus said," Gilderoy, sorry about before. I should have known that you won't leave us alone. Which spell did you use?"

Sirius didn't reply but acted like he was extremely weak from the ordeal. Besides, he had no idea what happened between them and Lockhart.

Severus also came up to him," So you finally decided to show up."

Professor Flitwick was not far behind and said," Lockhart, thanks for coming."

Severus, however, said with a sneer," We were doing fine but with your entrance it was over quickly. The only problem were the hostages."

All four wizards then just rested in silence for like ten minutes.

Silence was broken by Professor Flitwick who said," Hogwarts still surprises me. I wonder how many secrets are yet to be uncovered."

Remus and Severus just nodded.

Sirius said," Let's take Minerva and these students to the infirmary."

Remus and Severus stood up and went towards the students while Professor Flitwick went towards Minnie. Meanwhile, Sirius decided to collect few materials and ingredients from basilisk. It was truly a fantastic beast and he knew that just now they had killed the last one on earth.

Flitwick looked at him and asked him what he was doing when he saw Sirius/Lockhart remove eyes of basilisk.

Sirius replied," These are invaluable."

"But still," was short reply before Flitwick shaking his head, moved towards Remus and Snivellus asking them as to how they were getting back up.

Remus and Severus, both, gave few ideas. They were deciding on which one o use that patronus of Dumdledore came. Flitwick replied with a patronus of his own. So now they were waiting for Dumdledore and Ministry workers.

After what seemed like half an hour, Dumbledore was there along with quite a few ministry workers from the Department of Magical Creatures.

Gideon asked them details of their battle with basilisk. Remus and Professor Flitwick were quite generous in their praise for Lockhart while Severus just grunted. When Gideon asked Lockhart, he merely shrugged saying that he will give statement later as he was very tired.

They also inquired about missing parts of basilisk, which none of them bothered to reply but gave a look to Sirius/Lockhart.

Ministry had dropped self-moving ladder into the hole. They just stood on it while took them out of the hole adjusting itself to the twists and turns of pipe. Sirius could have suggested that house-elves could have just apparated them out of there in a blink of an eye but he didn't comment as it was fun to ride the ladder.

Once they were outside, Sirius told them that he was going to his room and would not like to be disturbed. Remus, however, one more hugged him and thanked him. That sealed the deal for ministry workers and Sirius could see that that next morning; Lockhart would be even more famous.

Sirius went to Lockhart's room and enervated him.

Lockhart angrily said," Sirius, what are you doing?"

Sirius replied," Basilisk is dead and well, you played a vital role in it."

Lockhart visibly relaxed at hearing that basilisk was dead which meant that he didn't have to face it.

Sirius continued," I will show you my memories. You just have to pretend that it was you. You are an expert in Occumelency so nobody will find out the truth."

Lockhart said in a disbelieving tone," You won't disclose that it was you?"

Sirius replied," Of course, I won't. You can take credit and even write a new book, Beating the Basilisk or Bashing the Basilisk or whatever. I just want you to make a vow to me that you will not ever tell anyone that it was I. I am willing to make a same vow."

Sirius looked at Lockhart and continued," Besides, you will be even more famous because this time you have credible witnesses like Professors of Hogwarts."

Lockhart, suddenly, became very happy and flashed his teeth at Sirius.

"So this will be our little secret," said Lockhart.

Sirius smiled and nodded.

Then Sirius showed him his memories and gave him detailed account of everything. Sirius, however, did not tell the spell to Lockhart. When Lockhart inquired as to how he would explain that, Sirius told him to say that he used his occumelency and legilimency skills to do that. Lockhart nodded. Sirius knew Lockhart would be fine because he was an expert at spinning tales out of nothing.

After half an hour, the Polyjuice Potion wore off.

Sirius checked Marauder Map to find a clear route to Ravenclaw tower.

After that he gave thumbs to Lockhart and said," See you tomorrow, Gilderoy the Basilisk Slayer."

Lockhart was overjoyed at the title and bid him good night.

Next morning, Sirius found that Board of Governors were again in Hogwarts. They have apparently declared Lockhart, hero who saved the students. The contributions of Remus, Snivellus, Professor Flitwick and Minnie were almost forgotten. Minnie was in infirmary while the other three were not interested in taking any credit for killing the basilisk. Thus, Lockhart was alone basking in the glory. Rat Jr. and Hermione were ok. They had not been harmed. The only one who was sad was Quirrell.

Board of Governors announced that they will award special prize to Lockhart and the one governor giving most credit to Lockhart was Regulus. When Regulus' and Sirius' eyes have met, Regulus had winked at him.

Ahh..Regulus knows it was me….

Next few days went by people oooing and aahing at Lockhart. Suddenly everybody respected him again even the fellow teachers.

Aside from Bronte Charles Fan Club, now there was also Lockhart Fan Club.

Ministry announced that it would erect a statue of Lockhart killing basilisk in Hogsmeade. The Black family declared that they would sponsor the statue. Hogsmeade now had a new attraction, a gold Lockhart statue in a fountain.

Finally, it was time for final exams. Sirius did not need to study. Exams were too easy for him.

After exams, Sirius was sitting beside lake. He had closed his eyes and the breeze ruffled his hair. He was truly enjoying the peace and serenity that an owl interrupted him. He took the note from the owl.

My friend Sirius,

We need to meet tonight at ten in the Forbidden Forest. I will be waiting for you. Professor Quirrell will accompany you.

Your future best friend Barty

Sirius rolled his eyes on future best friend but decided to go anyway. Quirrell had been quite down after all the basilisk business. After dinner, Sirius went to Quirrell with the letter. Quirrell smiled and both of them walked to the Forbidden Forest making sure that they weren't followed. After some time they reached a clearing. Barty Crouch Junior was sitting there next to a tent on a very stylish ottoman, which looked completely out of place.

Sirius asked," Why do you have a tent here?"

Barty Crouch Junior replied with a smile," It will be safer inside tent. Besides, it would be better to sit on proper chairs rather than sit on stones or grass in the forest. It is my motto 'Always be comfortable'."

Sirius snickered.

Tent was luxurious. Crouch family was rich but of course, Barty Crouch Junior, himself, was extremely wealthy thanks to his ridiculous books.

House elf was busy putting snacks along with drinks on the table.

They all settled in the 'lounge' type area of tent.

Sirius said," So why am I here?"

Barty Crouch Junior replied happily," To meet the Dark Lord."

Sirius acted confused and said, "What Dark Lord? Are you drunk?"

This time it was Quirrell who responded," Dark Lord Voldemort has taken a liking to you. And he wants to meet you."

Now it kinda makes sense why Quirrell and Barty Crouch Junior are so nice to me. But why does Voldemort like me?

Sirius, now, acted as if he was surprised and speechless.

Barty Crouch Junior said in a warning tone," Now I do have to tell you that Dark Lord's current form is not very ..how should I put it…very elegant ..And in no way, it represents the real glory of Dark Lord."

Sirius just nodded.

Then Quirrell undid his turban and creepy baby like thing separated himself from Quirrell.

Sirius knew fully well that it was Voldemort but he gave Barty Crouch Junior and Quirrell a very skeptical look and said rolling his eyes," You are telling me that this creepy abnormal baby type thing is Dark Lord. How could you even keep such a disgusting creature in your turban? No wonder you smell so bad all the time."

Sirius took out his wand and sent a very powerful stinging hex at Voldemort.

Barty Crouch Junior and Quirrell had horrified looks on their faces as Voldemort yelped when the spell hit him.

Sirius continued, "What kind of joke is this?"

It was Voldemort who spoke now," This is no joke, young Black. You are in the presence of the greatest wizard to ever exist."

Can he and Lockhart be distant relatives or something?

Sirius gave Voldemort an annoying look and transfigured him into pink hamster.

Sirius knew that he was getting away with all this because they thought he was just a kid who didn't know anything.

Barty Crouch finally found his voice and his eyes were size of saucers," What are you doing?" as he undid the transfiguration.

Quirrell said in a hurried tone," I am sorry, My Lord. Please, don't be angry."

Voldemort was now looking at Sirius and Sirius held his gaze.

Voldemort said in a very serious tone like he meant business," Just because I have not retaliated, don't take me lightly, young Black."

Sirius replied," I am not a fool, Mr. Creepy Baby. I can feel that your magic is powerful. However, you expect me to believe that you are Dark Lord Voldemort. Do you have any proof?"

Then Sirius looked towards Barty and said," Is this why you called me here?"

Barty Crouch Junior said," Sirius, this really is Dark Lord Voldemort."

Sirius replied," How do you know?"

Voldemort then laughed. It was a cold laugh.

Voldemort said," I am sure being taken lightly, aren't I? A wizard at the height of grandeur and power is being doubted by an eleven year old kid."

Sirius replied," I am twelve years old and I have no intention of taking Dark Lord Voldemort lightly. But I have never met Dark Lord. Aunt Bella said he was magnificent. Now Aunt Bella may have questionable taste but this makes even questionable, questionable."

Quirrell then told Sirius all about his trip to Albania.

Barty Crouch added at the end," I know this is Dark Lord Voldemort because I am a Death Eater, Sirius. I am a follower of Dark Lord like your father."

Mention of Regulus being follower of Dark Lord made Sirius angry but he controlled his emotions. He knew Voldemort could not be killed until all his horcruxes were destroyed, anyway.

Might as well play along. I might find out about his other horcruxes some way. I can get rid of this creepy baby form whenever I want, anyway.

Sirius said in a tone that was not sorry at all," I apologize for turning you into pink hamster, Dark Lord."

Voldemort said in a high and mighty voice," I don't mind but don't repeat this mistake again."

Sirius asked," Why was I called here?"

When Sirius asked that Barty gave him a winning smile.

Voldemort said," I have decided that you will become my follower. You will lead the younger generation of Death Eaters to victory."

Sirius resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Sirius was actually finding Voldemort quite funny.

Sirius gave him a questioning look and said," Victory?"

Voldemort replied," When I have regained my strength, I intend to wage war upon the wizarding community again."

And lose again.

Sirius just nodded.

Since, it was already 'decided' that Sirius would join Death Eaters by Voldemort, Sirius didn't protest. He just sat and heard their plans; someof them were comp;ete;y ridiculous though. When Voldemort mentioned House of Wisdom, a laugh escaped Sirius' mouth.

They gave him questioning look to which Sirius said," Baby Dark Lord, weren't you caught last time trying to steal books from Lost Library of Alexandria."

Barty gave a questioning look to Voldemort and Quirrell. However, Voldemort was looking here and there while Quirrell was now shade of red.

Even Voldemort feels embarrassed.

Sirius told Barty about the article he read in Daily Prophet in which it was mentioned that Quirrell was caught stealing books from library and sentenced to prison in Egypt.

Barty Crouch Junior commented," But why not get membership of library and check books out. It is a library after all."

The look on creepy baby's face and Quirrell's face told Sirius that this thought never crossed their mind.

Sirius couldn't help but laugh.

This time Voldemort didn't admonish him or stated anything about his grandeur.

Their plans continued for half an hour more and in the end it was decided that four wizards present in the tent will go to House of Wisdom together to find texts pertaining to revive the Creepy Baby Dark Lord.

Sirius already knew which ritual he was going to use to revive Voldemort.

I didn't spend years reading books from libraries of all purebloods for nothing.

Sirius said," I hope I get permission from my parents to attend this ..eh..summer camp?"

Barty Junior replied," Don't worry about that. I will talk to Regulus."

Sirius just 'hmm'd. Sirius had decided to ask Voldemort about the fateful night in which Sirius Black defeated Voldemort during this summer camp.

Finally, meeting was over. Quirrell + Voldemort took him back to castle.

It was time to head home. Ravenclaw had won the House Cup, too so Hogwarts was decorated in blue and bronze colors.

I wonder if Ravenclaw will win next year since I plan to break my detention record.

On their last day, Percy came to Sirius when he was eating breakfast. Seeing Percy move towards Sirius made almost all of Slytherins and Ravenclaws in the Great Hall stand up, holding their wands. Sirius saw that even Remus and Quirrell had stood up.

Percy took out his wand and kept it on the table.

Sirius gave him a questioning look.

Percy said," Black, I wanted to apologize for what happened in the Dueling Championship."

Sirius replied," You don't have to apologize. It was not your fault."

Percy responded," But still.."

Sirius cut him off, "Percy, it was not your fault. You are also a victim in all that happened."

Percy seemed extremely perplexed at Sirius' response. Sirius didn't understand his reaction at all.

Percy, however, just nodded and left.

Finally, the very eventful first year was over. Students were boarding the train to go back to their homes. Sirius, this time, wasn't lucky enough to get the whole last compartment to himself. As soon as he entered the compartment, his two cousins had joined him instantly. Soon Neville joined them, too.

Neville showed them list of top students and said," Lockhart released the list of top students of each year to Daily Prophet and it will be published tomorrow. "

Draco said," I will kill Lockhart. "

Sirius laughed and read the list.

BEST STUDENT OF THE YEAR

1st Year – Sirius Black (Ravenclaw)

2nd Year – Robert Lestrange (Slytherin)

3rd Year – Ethan John (Ravenclaw)

4th Year – Cedric Diggory (Hufflepuff )

5th Year – Jeremy Stretton (Ravenclaw)

6th Year – Percy Weasley ( Gryffindor)

7th Year – Francis Rowle (Slytherin)

Sirius said, "So Robert, your time in library paid off."

Robert replied, "I barely beat that mudblood."

Neville interrupted,"Don't use this term."

Robert gave him an annoyed look and said." Muggleborn, is it fine now?"

Neville smiled.

Robert continued, "If competition continues like this, I have no idea how it will turn out next year. She studies too much."

They all laughed.

Sirius looked out the window recalling his year in Hogwarts. He was the first Black to be sorted in Ravenclaw. He had the philosopher's stone. He had helped in killing a basilisk even though he was posing as Lockhart at that time. He became the youngest Quidditich Captain in the history of Quidditch. Ravenclaw had won not only the Quidditch Cup but also the House Cup.

He had become quiet proficient in wandless magic, thanks to Helga Hufflepuff. He could control majority of Magical Creatures by the spells invented by Godric Gryffindor. He had made progress on the hat's task which he decided to discuss with Bathilda Bagshot during summer vacation. He had escaped quite a few assassination attempts.

Last but not the least, he also had the distinction now of being the youngest Death Eater; the result of his last meeting with Barty and Quirrell in which Voldemort finally made his appearance.

MULTIPLE POVS

Remus and Severus walked towards the Three Broomsticks. It was a day after the students had left for their vacation. For both of them it had been a very eventful year. As they both neared their destination, they saw Quirrell and Lockhart waiting for them near the fountain. They were sitting on the bench.

This fountain was a new addition to Hogsmeade. It had a statue of Lockhart in the middle. Ministry had made this monument to celebrate his victory over the basilisk that was in the Chamber of Secrets.

To Severus' delight, they were accompanied by Barty Crouch Junior aka Bronte Charles, his hero.

Remus had noticed the change in Severus' mood as soon as Severus' eyes fell on Barty Crouch Junior. Putting two and two together, he had realized now that Severus had a hidden side to him, a side which read those bodice ripper novels. Remus snickered and earned a reprehensive look from Severus.

Pleasantries were exchanged and even Lockhart noticed that Severus met Barty Crouch Junior quite enthusiastically.

Severus said," So when is your next novel coming?"

Barty replied, " Oh! You don't know. I have quit writing novels. I am joining the Ministry of Magic next week to become a respectable man like my father wanted."

Severus was devastated and he knew that his company had noticed his sudden crestfallen look. It was like some part of him had been ripped apart. It took him a moment to compose himself.

Remus asked, " In which department will you be working at the Ministry? "

Barty replied, "Department of Magical Transportation."

Severus asked," Why are you quitting writing novels? "

Barty replied, "I have other things to do now. I am taking a trip to the House of Wisdom with Quirrell. "

Remus and Severus both gave a skeptical look to Quirrell.

Severus said," Try not to steal any books this time."

Quirrell flushed and said," I told you that was a mistake. "

Remus laughed and said," Though it might give us excuse to come to Iraq and see the library for ourselves."

Severus added," You both really are Ravenclaws."

Barty laughed while Quirrell ignored his remark.

Quirrell said," What are your plans for the vacation? "

Remus replied, " We both are taking a trip to Albania to find Voldemort."

Remus noticed that Quirrell and Barty slightly stiffened at that. Remus thought that maybe like others they aren't used to people using Voldemort's name.

Quirrell asked," Why? "

Severus replied this time," I am helping Remus in his quest to find out what actually happened that night. "

Barty said,"So you two will ask the Dark Lord."

Remus noticed that Barty Crouch had referred to Voldemort as the Dark Lord.

Severus replied, " That is if we find the Dark Lord there. But as per Dumbledore's information the Dark Lord was last seen in Albania."

Remus said," And it's not only two of us, Regulus Black will be joining us. I want to find out about that night because I feel Sirius would somehow forgive me if I find the truth."

Barty smiled at hearing Regulus' name as it reminded him of the youngest Death Eater.

Barty asked, " What do you want to know about that night? "

Remus said," About how Sirius really died? How is Pettigrew involved in all of this?"

Severus added," We know that Chosen One wasn't the one to defeat the Dark Lord. So the Dark Lord killed Black but left Chosen One alive."

Barty replied, " What are you saying? The Dark Lord didn't kill Sirius Black."

Quirrell cleared his throat to try and stop Barty but Barty ignored him.

Remus, as he analyzed what Barty had said, became pale. Warning bells were ringing in his mind.

Severus asked," What do you mean and how do you know that?"

Barty calmly replied, "I heard a man talking in the bar, The Serpent's Lair. It's a small bar near Godric's Hollow where well unsavory characters are the usual guests. That guy said he saw that Sirius Black was wounded and weak after his duel with the Dark Lord but he wasn't dead. When the Dark Lord left, Sirius Black was alive and the Chosen One was there, too."

Remus, now, had a feral gleam in his eyes," What do you mean? "

Barty ignored the anger in Remus' voice and replied, "It's simple the so called Chosen One didn't defeat the Dark Lord but he certainly killed your friend, Sirius Black. "

Severus could see that Remus was seconds away from losing control so he stunned the werewolf.

Remus gave a very angry look to Severus.

It was Lockhart who asked the question, Severus was dying to know the answer of.

Lockhart asked," So you also don't believe that the Chosen One is the real hero."

Barty replied, " I am not an idiot so of course, I don't believe that."

Quirrell was giving annoyed looks to Barty when Tom asked Quirrell to calm down and told him it was ok of Barty to tell them the truth.

Lockhart said," Welcome to the Club. None of us believe that Chosen One. "

What they weren't expecting was the force with which Remus broke the stun spell.

Remus growled loudly, " What the hell , Severus? If what Barty is saying is true then that rat killed my best friend. I will kill him."

Severus sighed and said," That's what we are going to find out and if Chosen One really did kill Sirius Black, you can kill him. Hell, you can kill him now for all I care. But I don't think you will be able to find the truth from behind the bars in Azkaban. "

Remus took few deep breaths and said that he needed a drink.

While others nodded, Barty Crouch said," Why are you acting like this? The Black family won't ever forgive you nor would Sirius Black even if you find some kind of truth now."

This sentence caught Remus' interest and he said, "What do you mean?"

Barty Crouch replied ignoring the glances Quirrell was giving him again, "Its simple. I thought you were a smart man. You want Sirius Black to forgive you when you denied his entire struggle and still believed even for few days that he was Death Eater. Look at all the people who surrounded Sirius Black, his friends, his peers, his mentors. All of you betrayed him. All of you who believed he was a Death Eater. Mr. Lupin, you abandoned your friend. You are friend with Severus who was a Death Eater. What do you think he was doing when he was not a spy but only Death Eater?"

Severus looked away in shame. The past he has been trying to forget just replayed before his eyes. Faces of children of Edgar Bones flashed before his eyes.

Barty continued," Your great Dumbledore gave second chance to Severus, a reformed Death Eater but he denied this same chance to Sirius Black. Isn't that interesting? All of you are guilty and no matter what you do now, it won't resolve you of your sin."

Barty Crouch smiled.

Remus said in a low tone," I know."

Barty Crouch sighed and said," Its strange that you do because all I see when I see you is coward self-righteous hypocrite."

Barty Crouch was getting irritated because somehow Lupin was reminding him of his father. Barty Crouch, somehow, felt that he understood Sirius Black. To Barty, they were just like two opposite sides of same coin; a 'light' wizard from a family of dark wizards and a dark wizard from the family of light wizards.

Quirell rolled his eyes and interrupted," Were we not going for a drink? Besides why are we discussing this topic? Remus only wants to find out what happened that night."

Barty Crouch laughed and headed towards the pub.

Unbeknownst to the five wizards, a sixth wizard had heard all of their conversation. They hadn't noticed his presence as he had been wearing his invisibility cloak.

James Potter was celebrating the promotion of one of his colleagues that day in the Three Broomsticks. That day he had accidentally brought Invisibility Cloak with him. He was thinking of sneaking into Hogwarts wearing his invisibility cloak when he saw Remus and Snivellus heading towards the gold Lockhart fountain. Lockhart, Quirrell and Barty Crouch Junior were already sitting there. James Potter decided to eavesdrop.

He had heard their whole conversation and now he stood stunned where he was. James knew in his heart that Sirius was not a Death Eater and he knew that even if he was, it won't have mattered to him. He just didn't want to deal with the death of his brother. Sirius had been the most important person to him ever since they became friends. He loved his brother more than anyone else in the world.

James Potter, finally, broke. He finally realized that he had really, truly lost Sirius. The mantra 'Sirius was dead, Padfoot was dead' drummed in his mind. He stood at that spot for hours wearing the Invisibility Cloak. The night came, darkness engulfed the village but he stood there as the shops closed.

Finally, around midnight, the inhabitants of the village heard a loud blood-curdling scream. Rosemarta ran outside her shop, as she exited the door she saw a shadow fall near the fountain. She ran towards the shadow to see if someone needed her help. She could hear that may other inhabitants had come out as well.

Aberforth asked," Is everything ok, Rose?"

Rosemarta replied while walking swiftly towards the fountain, " I saw someone fall near the fountain. "

Aberforth ran towards the fountain closely followed by few other people.

As Rosemarta shed light, she saw James Potter lying on the ground, half covered by Invisibility Cloak. James Potter eyes were open but he wasn't responding to anything. It was like he was in a coma but still awake like someone had stunned him. She tried shaking him, asking him, enervating him, but no response. Aberforth came forward and picked James up.

Aberforth said,"Let's take him to St Mungos."

Rosemarta nodded and they both took James Potter to the Hospital.

At the hospital, the Healer recognized James at once and sent one of the trainee to bring the Chief Healer as soon as possible.

The Healer took James to a private room. He did all types of spells but was unable to understand as to what was wrong with the Chief Healer's son. He asked Rosemarta again and again all the details but was still unable to understand the malady which struck Lord Potter.

Rosemarta was alone there with James as Aberforth had gone to inform Albus Dumbledore so he could inform the family.

After around fifteen minutes, Euphemia Potter came running into the room and saw her son. She asked the attending Healer who told her that he couldn't diagnose successfully. Euphemia Potter did all the diagnostic spells herself only to find increased brain activity. She gave James dreamless sleeping potion. She sat by Rosemarta and after thanking her asked her for details. Rosemarta left after some time, telling Euphemia that she will visit again. She had told Euphemia that Dumbledore will be informing Lily.

Euphemia sat by her son, running her fingers through his hair. After half an hour, Lily came. Lily hugged James and asked Mrs. Potter for details. Euphemia told her that James was in shock but she didn't know as to what happened to reduce her son to this state.

Lily and Euphemia spent the night there. Lily told her that she had left Harry at her sister's house as her parents had gone to Bangkok for Holidays.

James woke up next morning but didn't respond to anything that his mother or wife said or did. He just sat there blankly. He stopped eating. He didn't respond to anything. He only slept when Euphemia forced fed him dreamless sleeping potion. Few days passed by.

Euphemia had noticed that the only time, James has responded was when he heard the voices of Pettigrew family outside the door of his hospital room. He didn't say anything but rage had filled his eyes and marred his face. Lily had gone to attend the Pettigrew family while Euphemia was sitting on the chair beside James' bed. Well, she saw her son destroy the hospital room in his rage.

This resulted in a chaos and Pettigrews had to go without meeting James. Lily told Peter to come back later. She was unable to give any proper answers to Peter as she didn't know herself as to what happened to her husband.

Peter was wondering what happened to James as well. What had made James go into such a state. He had seen the destruction of room in which literally everything exploded. He saw Mrs. Potter stunning James and taking his wand from him. He had told Lily that he would visit later. He had seen fear and worry in the eyes of his godson. His own son after the witnessing the destruction of room had declined to ever visit the hospital again.

The only time James had eaten something was when Harry tried to feed him. After few days,Lily and Harry were sitting in the cafeteria of St Mungos drinking tea and eating sandwiches.

She heard a familiar voice saying, " Oh come on, Mom. It's just a summer camp and only for two weeks. "

Lily saw Marlene enter the cafeteria, followed by her son.

Marlene replied strictly, " No. I don't trust this Barty Crouch."

Sirius replied, " I am not asking you to trust him but Dad gave me permission. He is Dad's friend. And Professor Quirrell will be there, too."

Marlene said,"You mean the man who wrote 'The Black History of the Blacks' or something."

Sirius replied,"Mom, he apologized to dad about that."

Marlene said," Your father is going to Albania. When he comes back, he will go with you. "

Sirius replied, "Mom, dates are fixed. We are just going to see the library."

Sirius thought that he can't exactly take his dad to the Death Eater Summer Camp.

Marlene said," I have a meeting to attend. Wait for me here. "

She walked a few steps and turned her head back towards her son and said," And Sirius, don't cause any trouble. It's a hospital. "

Sirius smirked but didn't give any answer.

Marlene shook her head and walked away.

Sirius looked around to find two pair of identical eyes looking at him. Lily Potter and Harry Potter were sitting there in the café. Both looked exhausted especially Lily. She had dark circles under her eyes and her eyes were bloodshot.

Curiosity took the better of him and he went to their table.

Sirius said," Good Morning, Mrs. Potter and Potter. "

Lily gave him a slight smile," Good Morning, Sirius. "

Sirius asked," What brings you here? Is everything fine."

Lily started crying and hugged him saying, " Padfoot, I don't know what has happened to Prongs. "

Lily truly looked broken. This clenched Sirius' heart. Even when James' eyes had reflected hatred whenever he saw him, Lily's eyes only held curiosity and warmth.

Harry was looking at his mother incredulously.

Sirius patted her head and said," Everything will be fine, Lils. "

Lily sighed and fell asleep in a matter of seconds, still hugging Sirius. Sirius gave a look to Harry.

When Harry didn't do anything, Sirius said," Harry, ask for some empty room. Lily had fallen asleep."

Harry got up and ran towards the staff. They took Lily to a room. Sirius stood beside her bed and asked Harry as to what was wrong.

Harry wanted to ask Sirius as to when did Sirius start taking his mother's first name.

Harry replied, " She hadn't slept for last few days. Daddy is in the hospital."

Sirius asked," What happened to James? "

Harry replied, "Why are you so informally addressing my parents like you are their friend? "

Suddenly Sirius realized his mistake. Seeing Lily's disheveled state made him forget everything.

Sirius replied, "I am not sure as to how to address them. What happened to your father? "

Harry replied, "Nobody knows but he suddenly stopped eating and talking. "

Sirius looked at Harry and gave him a small smile. Then he left the room. Harry looked at him curiously and decided to follow him.

Sirius asked the staff about James Potter's room and went there.

He entered the room and what he saw broke his heart. Sirius realized that even after everything, he loved James. James was like an empty shell, like Dementors had suck his soul.

Sirius closed the door and casted silencing spells and locking spells on the room.

Harry had seen Sirius entering his father's room but he couldn't enter the room or hear anything from inside. For some unknown reason, Harry knew that Sirius won't hurt his father.

Sirius said," Prongs, what are you doing?"

James, at once, looked towards the source of the voice. He saw Sirius standing there. He got up from bed and ran towards Sirius.

He hugged him and said," Padfoot, I am sorry. I am sorry. Please don't leave me…."

James kept saying that crying loudly with Sirius in his arms.

Sirius stood there silently, as James wailed for what seemed like an hour or two.

When he heard that James had stopped crying, he said," Mr. Potter. "

James, at once, let him go and looked at him as he was finally realizing who it was.

Sirius said," I know about your friendship with my uncle. My uncle would not want you to wallow in grief. Live your life for him because my uncle loved you a lot. You were truly his brother in everything but blood."

James listened silently to Sirius' words. He had an embarrassing look on his face.

Sirius continued, " Anyway, I should be going else my mother will turn this hospital upside down."

Sirius saw James smile which made him happy.

Sirius opened the door to find Harry standing outside, trying to eavesdrop.

Sirius snickered as Harry fumbled for words.

He heard James' voice, "You know that I don't hate you, right? "

Harry looked at him curiously.

Sirius smirked and said,"Yes, I know, Mr. Potter. After all it is impossible to hate the Great Sirius Black. "

Sirius winked at Harry and left. Harry heard his father laugh. Harry had his father back. But Harry had a nagging feeling that Sirius Black was more than he ever showed to other people. Sirius Black was hiding something. And Harry made a pledge in his heart to find out what it is.

James looked at his son and smiled. Harry ran towards his father and started crying.

James said wiping his son's tears," I am fine, Harry. Everything will be fine."

Harry told him about how mother fell asleep and they took her to the room.

Lily woke up to find James sitting beside her bed.

James smiled at her.

Lily extended her hand and touched James' face to see if he was real.

Lily said," You are OK, now?"

James replied, " Yes, my flower. I am fine now. In fact, I am more than fine."

Lily, too realized that James looked different.

James sat on the bed beside her and kissed her forehead.

Lily smiled. She had Prongs back. She didn't know what has happened but James was well now.

James, on the other hand, had a new conviction. After so many years, he felt like fog had lifted from his brain. He could think clearly. He had decided to make life of everyone who even hinted of his brother being a dark wizard, hell.

He smirked thinking of what he was going to do with these people. Peter Pettigrew and Albus Dumbledore topped the list. But he first needed to find what exactly happened that night.

Lily looked at him and asked,"What are you smirking about? "

James smiled and said," Nothing darling. It's just about time that 'retribution of the Marauder' started. "

Lily didn't know what James was talking about but she smiled at seeing her husband healthy and happy.

-! %$%^%*&^(*(

Next Chapter :

Sirius and Death Eaters Summer Camp,

Regulus, Remus and Snivellus ' trip to Albania,

James Potter aka Prongs is back and well, Peter is about to become a very unhappy man.

Bathilda Bagshot and Sirius meet again, etc etc etc.

Strange Alliances are formed!