I'm late, I'm late, for a very important date XD
Hey guys. I'm super sorry that this update is a week behind, but school started and I'm teaching and it's crazy! So, I'm going to reset the every other week thing with this week, because now the chapter postings will line up with my payday again XD
Anyway, we're finally officially out of third year! :D I'm so excited. Reading back over what I wrote for third year, I realized that even if I was finally able to come up with stuff after the hiatus, it was still a struggle to get through . All the interesting things are happening in fourth year, and I've been editing those chapters over the last few days and they're looking great. I can't wait to see some of your reactions ;)
CanisLupinHomoSapien, I totally agree, that scene was eh XD But it's just kind of filler. Consider it like one of those episodes of an anime that has nothing to do with the major plot XD
Kam, I always love to see your comments :D Those boys are so good to our Moony.
SkyRose, welcome to the story! :D I always love to see new readers, especially reviewers. I'm sorry you lost sleep over the story XD But I think you're the only one right now who caught onto the mistletoe thing so good for you ;)
And that's all for now, darlings. I'll see you in two weeks. Love ya!
~SXS
FOR WARNINGS AND DISCLAIMER, SEE FIRST CHAPTER AN.
5th June 1974
Moony,
How was the you-know-what? Actually I probably know the answer, but I'm just hoping that maybe I'll hear some good news. I can't wait until we can finally come with you and make it better.
Speaking of which, I've been scouting out possible pet shops. My mother was absolutely shocked when I told her I wanted to get a job. I think she almost smiled. Can you believe that? On the flip side, she almost saw the leaf in my mouth and I had to quickly tuck it under my tongue. It wasn't easy convincing her that my mouth was empty with the damn thing making me sound funny, but I managed. Anyway, I've put in applications with five different pet shops, so one of them is bound to hire me.
We should try getting together again this summer. I know it worked out splendidly (sooooo sarcastic) last time, but maybe the new responsible Sirius Black will have better luck.
Miss you already,
Sirius
P.S. Now that we have our own alter egos, this is the perfect opportunity to come up with cool nicknames for us all! Let me know anything you come up with.
5th June 1974
Staggy,
Don't freak out just yet, I'm still working on prototypes. I've been thinking that we should give ourselves cool nicknames to go with our animal selves like how Remus is Moony. Please present at least one idea with each letter. Your contributions are much appreciated.
How's the hunt going, by the way? Have you been looking for an antlered buddy yet? I've been applying to every pet shop in a reasonable walking distance from my house. The only thing is they're all Muggle shops and I don't know how I'm going to convince my mother to let me get my money exchanged at Gringotts. I'll have to somehow sneak away from her when we go to Diagon Alley for supplies. On the bright side, that means I'll be forced to save everything until the end of the summer. I'll be rich!
Any fun plans for the summer? I was hoping we could try to get together again this year, since I might have a bit more pull with Mumsy. So I'm officially inviting myself over to your house sometime in the future. I know you're thrilled.
Missing you oodles and oodles,
Canis Maximus (What do you think of that for a nickname? Highly appropriate, right?)
7th June 1974
Rover,
I'm picturing you being quite displeased with my choice, and it's hilarious.
Unfortunately, there's nothing any better than usual to report about the you-know-what, but then again, there's nothing any worse either. But you have certainly not convinced me yet that it'll be safe for you to come with me. Don't forget that the wolf might not believe that you're actually animals. I couldn't ever forgive myself if you or the others got hurt.
I'm glad that your mother is actually happy with you for once. Honestly I thought she might not believe that you were telling her the truth. Maybe she's finally coming to terms with the fact that being a Gryffindor isn't some horrible disease. How have you been eating with the leaf in your mouth, by the way? I've been curious.
I'd love to hang out before school starts. Are we planning on going to James's again or would you like to come to my place? I've been wanting my parents to meet James and Peter since we've been talking so much about them whenever we're home.
Miss you too,
Remus
8th June 1974
Barky McBarkerson,
Challenge accepted. I'm going to come up with the most creative nicknames ever devised.
I have been looking, and my parents think I'm losing my mind. I guess since I've never had much of an interest in animals before, it's just a bit surprising that I'm desperate to visit every petting zoo in a 50 kilometer radius. I've already been to three and I haven't found a stag yet in any of them. At least you're having some good luck.
Besides hunting down a furry friend, I don't have any special plans just yet. Seeing you will be the highlight of my summer, unless of course the stag I find does something more impressive. We'll have to see how things play out.
Don't fret, we'll be together again someday,
Noble Majesty (Much more appropriate)
8th June 1974
Squeaky,
Just testing it out. Sirius thinks we need to come up with nicknames that go with our animals, so it's best to experiment at every opportunity.
Anyway, how's your summer going so far? I've been trying to find an easily accessible stag for the past few days but it's been difficult. It's also been difficult trying to hide the fact that I'm holding a stupid Mandrake leaf in my mouth. Everything I eat has the taint of it and I've nearly choked twice so meals have not been enjoyable.
We're thinking about hanging out again sometime later in the break so let me know if you have any conflicting plans. Talk to you soon.
Horned Justice (What do you think, too flashy?)
13th June 1974
Very funny,
You know, if that's how you're going to be then I might just change your nickname. What if I started calling you Big Bad or something like that?
Moony, my dear, sometimes I can't believe you have so little faith in me. I'm already thinking about how we can make sure that everything is perfectly safe for all involved. Most importantly, we need to come up with some kind of backup plan just in case things start going awry. See? I'm five steps ahead of you.
The day my mother accepts me for who I am is the day that I strip naked and disco on the staff table during dinner. You can hold me to it. As far as the leaf, my method has been to try to roll it up and tuck it into my cheek, then chew my food on the opposite side. But I'm experiencing an unpleasant interference in food flavor. At least we're almost halfway done with this part.
I already told James that we would go to his house, but if you prefer we come to yours then that's fine with me. You know I love seeing my surrogate parents. But we'll have to plan around my new work schedule because I GOT A JOB! There are tons of dogs there too, so I'm going to be an expert by the time summer's over. Time for you to be proud of me.
Bet I miss you more.
Nightfur (This is a personal favorite of mine)
13th June 1974
If I knew what kinds of sounds stags make, I would come up with a name based on that for you, but for now I'll just call you Easy Prey,
That's perhaps the longest greeting I've ever written in a letter. See how special you are?
There must be a petting zoo somewhere out there that's not too far to go everyday and has deer. I do remember one time going to this place called Bucklebury Farm Park for Regulus's birthday. Definitely had deer, but I don't know how close it is to where you live. I know it's an hour or so from London.
How could a stag possibly stand up in interest to your bestest friend in the whole world? Also, slight change of plans. Moony would like us to come to his house so you can meet his parents. They're super nice, I think you'll really like them.
I'll try to stay strong,
The Bark Knight
14th June 1974
Um…Buck?
Sorry, that's terrible. I wanted to think more about it, but I want to be able to mail this letter today.
I've been drinking a lot of water to try to wash away the taste faster. I think it might actually be working because I finally had a piece of bacon that didn't taste rotten. But it's still hard to chew around it. I've tried keeping it under my tongue, but it's a bit big to fit.
I asked my mother to get me a pet rat since I thought that would be the easiest way to spend time with one every day. His name is Gryff. You know, for Gryffindor…I'm really not very creative with names.
I don't have any plans except for a short family holiday at the end of July. I'd love to get together! Let me know details.
Peter
17th June 1974
Marauding Mutt,
Congratulations on the job! Let me know your days off and then we'll make plans. Mum and Dad said they miss their other son.
By the way, I'd prefer if you didn't change my nickname, but if you're going to, at least make it sensible. There's nothing big or bad about me.
Whatever backup plan you're coming up with needs to be approved by me first. I want to be absolutely certain that there is no chance of something bad happening.
I'm keeping that letter forever as proof of your offer. Don't think I'll forget about it. Also, I'm sorry that you haven't been able to enjoy eating. I promise, I'll make it up to you somehow. I'll have Dad whip up amazing porridge when you come over.
Are we really going to have a contest about this?
Remus
18th June 1974
Butt-sniffer,
I looked into it and Bucklebury Farm is actually not that far from my house, so I've gotten a job there. I figured it was the best excuse I could come up with to spend hours at a time with a stag without spending all my allowance on admission. Looks like we'll both be working men. Did you get your job yet?
Once I do start hanging around with my antlered brethren, I'll have to let you know the pros and cons between the two of you. But in the meantime, going to Remus's would be fine. I'll tell Pete. Have you thought of any good names for him, by the by? Frankly we're both struggling.
Your patience will be rewarded,
King of the Forest
18th June 1974
Cheese-lover,
Don't worry, Sirius and I can handle the nickname game. Just pray that we go easy on you.
I tried the water thing and it's really helped. Thanks for the tip. We only have a little bit longer to go now, but at least these last days will be more bearable.
Gryff's not terrible. It sounds tough. I think we'll all be in good shape with the animals by the time summer's over. I got a job at a petting zoo so now I've got plenty of reason to spend my 100 hours with a stag. Sirius probably got his job too.
The plan seems to be to go to Remus's, though I guess we'll have to coordinate our schedules to figure out what a good set of days would be. Plus we have to avoid the you-know-what too. I'll keep you updated.
Alpha Deer (These are starting to sound like spy names now)
22nd June 1974
Dasher-Dancer-Prancer-Vixen-Comet-Cupid-Donner-Blitzen,
Funny as that would be, I think we'd have to choose just one of them because the whole thing just doesn't roll off the tongue that well.
I did get my job! I've already worked about a week and it's not the most horrible thing in the world. I mean, besides cleaning up poop. So. Much. Poop. But I'm sure you'll find out all about that yourself.
Regarding our rendezvous at Remy's, I have days off on Sunday and Monday. The you-know-what is 4th July so at this point I'm thinking the week after that. Regarding Peter's nickname, how about…Bubonic? You know, because rats carried the plague? Nah, he'd probably hate that. I'll work on it.
Only eight more days with these leaves!
Doggone Handsome
22nd June 1974
That's actually kind of cute,
I'd never actually change your nickname, Moons. Half the time I refer to you as Moony in my head. But I do think I'll have to make it my business to see how many variations of Moony I can come up with to call you.
I wouldn't feel safe unless you were involved in the planning, so I will certainly submit any prospective plans to you for approval. I know you won't let anything happen to me. You like me too much.
Porridge is always appreciated, and I'm certain the cereal of the gods will wash away all remnants of the horrible Mandrake taste. I'll thank your father heartily.
My days off are Sunday and Monday. I know there's another you-know-what at the beginning of July, so if the week after is good for you, it's good for me. James got a job at the petting zoo so he could hang out with more of his kind. He's gonna tell me his schedule and then we can make final plans. I just hope that I'm not getting excited for nothing.
There is no contest. I win.
Blackpaws
24th June 1974
James,
Normally I wouldn't complain, but please don't make my name something horrible. I don't want people to think I'm weird.
I know this is all for Remus, but I really can't wait until I can get rid of this leaf. It's so soggy and limp now. I feel really bad that Gryff is going to have to eat it.
My family is leaving on holiday on the 20th so before that I'm all good to go. I can't wait to see you all!
Peter
27th June 1974
Wags,
I think we need to start making some real decisions on these names. It's already getting difficult to squeeze the creative juices from my amazing brain.
You were so right about the poop. So, so right.
Weekends are our busiest days (look at me, talking like I've been here for ages). I get off Mondays and Tuesdays because it's slow so we could always meet up on the 8th. Peter's family isn't going away until the 20th, so it all works out. By the way, he is definitely not Bubonic. That's too Medieval for him. I'm thinking something that brings out his inner rat. What about Beady-Eyes?
I can almost taste freedom. It still tastes like Mandrake.
Branch (Seriously, I'm ashamed to say I'm spent with these names)
27th June 1974
Rat-a-tat-tat,
No good, I know, but we're really stretching here. Do you have a picture of Gryff you could send me to study? Maybe with some inspiration it'll come to me.
There's only three days left now. Stay strong, Pete. After this, it's all downhill. Also, I'd try to stuff the leaf into some cheese or something before trying to feed it to Gryff. Hopefully he gobbles it up without realizing that it tastes off.
We're shooting for the 8th. I'll let you know if anything changes.
Doe Bait (Maybe I'm not strung out yet after all)
29th June 1974
Four-Legged Menace,
I look forward to your creative brand of mangling names. This whole nickname ordeal has been riveting thus far. I hope you can properly conjure my sarcastic voice in your mind.
I'm rather fond of all of you and I don't want to leave myself with no friends. So I warn you, my screening process for your plans is going to be strict.
Ordinarily I'd never tell you to do this but perhaps it's called for after what happened last time…You should sneak out. You could always tell your mother that you picked up extra hours, find a public Floo, and come here. I only suggest it because I don't want her to ground you again for asking. I was really worried last year.
Fine, you win.
Remus
30th June 1974
Fork-Head,
Get it? Because your antlers have prongs, forks have prongs…Yeah, this is getting difficult.
Tomorrow we can finally get rid of the leaves! That means we're one step closer! But you know, I think it's going to feel weird now to not have something constantly in my mouth. Maybe I'll start chewing gum. It'll definitely taste better.
The 8th sounds good to me. Only a little more than a week! I can't wait to see you my darling!
What about Scurry or Scamper? Or Whiskers? Or…Long Tail…
Woof (At this point we're grasping at straws)
1st July 1974
James,
Here's a picture of Gryff. Good thing I took it before I tried to feed him the Mandrake leaf, because he wouldn't even look at me afterwards. The cheese didn't make much of a difference. I think he feels betrayed.
I'm cleared to come so I guess I'll see you in a week!
Peter
2nd July 1974
Sirius,
Bad news. I accidentally swallowed my leaf a few weeks back. I almost choked when it came free from my cheek, so it wound up going down with a glass of water. Guess I can't become an Animagus. I feel awful. I really wanted to help Remus.
I would have written sooner be we were on holiday. Only had Muggle post around. Can you find out if it's alright to swallow the leaf? I'd rather not die.
Hope your summer is going well.
Anjanette
3rd July 1974
Moonbeam,
James and I are actually in a slump with our nicknames at this point. There's only so many creative ways that you can exploit animal traits. But as far as yours, I still have plenty of steam left to get me through the summer!
I guess it would be a pretty clean sweep if you took out all of us at once. But you've got some backup friends, right? Although we haven't really talked to them for a while. Maybe you should start investing some time with them, just in case.
I'm kidding. Nothing's going to happen to us.
Maybe.
No, really, I'm just messing with you. I wish I could see your face right now.
Remus Straight-lace Lupin! I'm surprised at you, suggesting something so disobedient and rebellious…You've made me so proud! It's kind of short notice at this point, but we'll be there on the 8th. I won't be able to sleep over because, but I guess that'll work better with my lies (really your lies). Speaking of work, I fed my leaf to one of the dogs and it nearly barfed it back up. I don't blame him one bit, but now that we're both done with it we can move onto bigger and better things.
What fun are you?
Padded Toes
5th July 1974
Bow-wow,
Actually I think you gave me an idea. What do you think of Prongs? It's a subtle reference and it makes me sound sharp.
My boss almost caught me when I was feeding the stag my leaf because I had to basically shove it down the thing's throat. I had to make it like I was having a tender moment with it when really it was two seconds away from ramming me with its antlers. But at least it's done now. I just hope that it doesn't hate me enough to not want to come near me, or I'm never going to get my 100 hours in.
Pete actually sent me a picture of the pet rat he got and I've been trying to use it as a springboard, but so far nothing's come to me. I'll probably bring it along with me to Remus's. Maybe when we're together our combined brainpower will be enough to conquer this nickname dilemma. Actually, you never told me whether or not you asked your mother for permission. You are going, right?
Until Monday (hopefully) my dear,
Prongs
5th July 1973
Siri,
I think you're definitely onto something with the 'pad' part. Maybe you should just be Pads, or Padtoe if you want to be specific. Though that almost sounds like a foot fungus. Then again, you can be fungus-like in your irritation sometimes. Keep an open mind on that one.
Not that I'd mind reconnecting with Fabian and Gideon, but it would be like starting over again and I'd prefer not to have to do that. It would be serendipitous for me to find another group of people who accepted me for what I am. I already have trouble believing that there are four people now who know my secret and don't care.
I'm not a Marauder for nothing, you know. The only reason I seem like a goody-two-shoes is because you and James are mad, so the comparison is skewed. Besides, one of us has to maintain some kind of control. I can only imagine what the two of you might do if I wasn't around to reign you in. But don't get used to this, because on a regular basis I wouldn't advise going against someone as cruel as your mother.
Apologize to the dog for me. I feel bad that he and the other innocent animals have to be subjected to this on my account.
Remus
11th July 1974
AJ,
First of all, it's so much easier to write that instead of your full name. I still can't believe you let Regulus give you a nickname.
Secondly, that's terrible! I would have thought you out of all of us would have the best luck with this whole thing. That really sucks. Don't feel bad, though, it was an accident. Better that you didn't choke and die. Although that means my list of animal-themed nicknames for you was all for naught. Would you mind if I started calling you Marbleye anyway?
Sadly, the book has no information about what happens if you swallow the leaf. Looks like this will be a learn-as-you-go kind of thing. But you haven't died yet, so that's a plus.
Sirius
11th July 1974
Moonlight on the Water,
You lot better not have had too much fun after I left on Monday. I'd be more upset about having to leave but Mumsy actually wasn't suspicious about where I was when I came back. It's unsettling that she trusts me.
Since we didn't get a chance to talk about it while I was there, I think you'd be surprised how many people wouldn't care about your furry little problem. Anyone who's spent five minutes with you will know that you're about as dangerous as a summer breeze, so I don't think they'd be afraid of you if you told them the truth. You should be more worried about finding friends who are as suave and debonair as we are.
Also, I've been toying with the pad thing. What about Padfoot? Sounds nicer.
My dog buddy has been quite chummy since I gave him the leaf. I'm going to miss him when we go to school. He's taught me so much, like how to bark at every customer that walks by and pee on newspaper. I think I'm really getting in touch with my inner dog.
Missing you all over again,
Padfoot (It's already growing on me)
11th July 1974
Prongsie,
I'm so glad that we're almost done with this nickname thing. I think I've finally settled on mine. I'll be leaving it at the end of the letter to keep you in suspense. As for our resident rodent, I'm liking either Pinky or Wormtail. Something tells me he'd be fonder of the second one.
Anyway, how's your stag buddy? My cold-nosed friend at the pet store is giving me all kinds of pointers on how to act like a dog. Highlights are letting your tongue hang out all the time, and if you ever get wet for any reason, shake so hard that you spray everyone in the immediate vicinity. It's been quite educational so far.
Wait for it…
Padfoot
14th July 1974
Pads (this is definitely the one),
The second that you left, we had a porridge party, Father Christmas came for a visit and brought presents, and we were all allowed to use magic for 24 hours. It's a shame you had to leave.
I've been thinking, and I'm kind of glad that AJ swallowed her leaf. That's one less person I have to worry about hurting or killing. I know we've been joking around about this, but honestly I'm terrified for you all. And while you might be right, about some people accepting me, all it would take was one slip of the tongue and an overreacting parent for me to be expelled and sent off to the Ministry. So basically, I really don't want any of you to die.
You may be learning your inner animal's mannerisms, but don't expect me to set up newspaper on the floor of our dorm room for you. No one needs to deal with that.
Remus
15th July 1974
Sirius,
It's the first nickname anyone's given me that actually makes sense and doesn't sound annoying. And in case it wasn't clear, yes I would mind if you called me Marbleye. I don't think I need to remind you of what happened to James.
Living is rather nice. I'd like to keep doing it for a while.
AJ
16th July 1974
Padfoot…Hmm…
I guess that works. Better than most of what we've tried over the last month. And I'd have to agree, Wormtail is the best out of what we've come up with for Pete.
Why do I get the feeling that you're going to enjoy being a dog more than the rest of us will enjoy being our animals?
So far I've learned that stags are the most boring animals in the world. All he does is stand, eat grass, and sometimes hop around the field. I don't understand why this is my inner animal. I'm so much more exciting than a stag!
Since your mum seems to be in a good mood lately, we should try to meet up at Diagon Alley. Unless you think we'd be pushing our luck.
Your fabulous friend,
Prongs
20th July 1974
Moon-Moon
I knew you were saving the best stuff for when I was gone! And here I thought you loved me!
By the way, James and I have decided on Wormtail for Peter. In case you're going to send him any letters.
You're not going to hurt or kill anyone, Moons, I know it. We're going to plan way ahead of time for every possible situation, and everything will be fine. Trust me. And if anyone ever tries to take you away, you know that we'd all come down and bust you out and we can run away into the forest together. I wouldn't mind becoming a fugitive. No more Mumsy and darling Daddy, no more exams, no more rules. It could be fun.
I'm far above newspaper, Rem, you should know that. You'll have to take me on walks so that I can do my business in comforts of nature. Just kidding, that would be very weird. Even I have limits.
Padfoot
P.S. I had to rewrite this letter because I chewed up the first copy. I guess I've been spending a little too much time with that dog.
20th July 1974
My full of himself friend,
I happen to think my new nickname is awesome, thank you very much.
Dog life is amazing! You don't have to worry about anything, people are always saying how cute you are and wanting to scratch your head or rub your stomach, and you get treats for being good. Actually, when I put it that way it sounds like Regulus's relationship with my parents.
Don't forget that stags are also considered game, so you have that going for you too.
As far as Diagon Alley, once you have a date in mind, we may just happen to be there at the same time, and perhaps just by coincidence bump into you. All completely and totally unplanned of course.
Man's Best Friend,
Padfoot
26th July 1974
Padfoot,
It's all a lie. That's why I'm desperate to make sure you're safe when the time comes for you to join me during a transformation, and why I worry about you when you're at home with your psychotic family. Makes sense, yes?
Wormtail is good. Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs. Has a nice ring to it.
There's no way you're becoming a fugitive just for my sake. Besides, you don't have to be on the run to have all those things. Once you're out of school and can get a real, well-paying job, then you can get your own place. Or you could always come stay with me and my parents.
It seems like you're really adapting to the idea of living as a dog. You know you're not changing into one permanently, right?
Remus
28th July 1974
More like Man's Weird Acquaintance,
I can't wait until I'm done with these 100 hours. One last shift and that should do it. I don't know if I've even really learned anything from old boney-and-skittish besides what I've already told you. As far as I can tell, a stag's purpose in life is just to exist. Wait…That's actually profound. I think I just had an epiphany!
A good day for you to just so happen to be in Diagon Alley would probably be the 19th. I may be going there myself, in case you were curious. Remus is probably curious too so you should tell him.
James
2nd August 1974
Moonpie,
You actually made me want to get choked up, Moons. That was so sweet. Stop making me all mushy, or James will think I'm a girl!
Your listing of our names gave me an idea. I was thinking anyway that we would have to sign our names on the map because obviously we want people to know the brilliant minds that originally came up with it. But what if we sign with our nicknames instead? There'll definitely be other Jameses and Peters in the future, possibly Siriuses and Remuses, but never another Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, or Prongs. It'll help cement our legacy!
Much as I love your parents, I have a better idea. Let's become flatmates! I'm sure whatever job you wind up doing will rake in the dough big time, and between the two of us we could afford something really nice with enough space to throw parties and have James and Pete over to stay with us. It'll be perfect!
Maybe I was meant to be born as a dog and I wound up in a human body by accident. Either way, I'm glad I'm getting the option to be either or when I feel like it.
By the way, you're coming to Diagon Alley on the 19th. I won't take no for an answer.
Sirius
2nd August 1974
Ja-mez,
I get the feeling your realization is going to increase your ego. Oh well. Your self-loathing over your inner animal was fun while it lasted.
I don't even have to do any work this year to get my mother to bend to my will. Reg wanted to meet up with AJ (did you know he made up that nickname for her and she didn't even hex him for it? Tough luck on you, mate. Personally I like it as it's a lot easier to write) and he asked me what day to tell her. Maybe there's still hope for him after all.
Actually pleased with life,
Sirius
5th August 1974
Pete,
Hope you had a good holiday. Just wanted to let you know a couple of things. First of all, we've finalized the nicknames. We are now officially Moony, Prongs, Padfoot, and…dun dah dah! Wormtail! How do you like that? It's cool, right?
Secondly, we're planning a group Diagon Alley trip for the 19th if you're free. I think this year Sirius's mum is finally going to let him hang out with us, and AJ is going too so it'll be the whole gang. Let me know if you can make it.
James
5th August 1974
Sir-yus,
I've never thought that I was anything less than wonderful, even being a stag. This is just new reinforcement. A stag's purpose solely being to exist makes perfect sense. My purpose in life is simply to be. I enhance the world just by living. I always knew I was meant for such greatness.
All this talk of shopping reminded me of Zonko's which reminded me of the fact that we also have to start thinking about our big prank for the year. We have so much to do and so little time…
Did you ever notice that your brother and AJ (you're right, so much easier to write, and how dare she not hex him? So unfair) spend a lot of time together? It's a wonder Remus doesn't get jealous.
I'm pleased that you're pleased,
James
6th August 1974
Pads,
I'm a bit annoyed at the moment. I was calculating the moon cycle and I found out that the you-know-what is going to fall on 1st September. Fantastic timing, right? I'll wind up missing the first day of classes.
You big softy. Don't worry, I won't tell James how poufy you are.
You've kind of given me an idea, but it's something that I'd have to research to see if it's even possible. I don't want to get your hopes up so I won't tell you what it is I'm thinking yet.
If we're going to move in together, all four of us might as well live together. After all, splitting rent four ways is better than two. It'll be just like living in our dorm...Then again…
I'll be there. I have a surprise for you.
Remus
10th August 1974
Moonshine,
That's awful. Maybe you should see if you can come in later in the week. The train ride isn't going to be fun if you're all pre-moon miserable. You should stay at home and rest.
Why would you even tell me that you have an idea if you're not going to tell me what it is?! You know I have insatiable curiosity. When I see you next I'm going to pester you relentlessly until you tell me!
Hell yes, it would be fantastic! Unless of course any of us find romance in the next few years because there's no way I'm living in the same place as James and anyone he hooks up with. His flirting alone is gag-worthy.
A surprise on top of a secret idea?! What are you trying to do to me Moons?!
Sirius
10th August 1974
Prongs-along,
I haven't thought about the prank at all yet either, but I do think we should avoid pulling another Christmas one. We've done that twice in a row now, and we don't want to become predictable.
First of all, Rem and AJ have told us before that they're not interested in each other, so he has no reason to be jealous. Secondly, what are you implying exactly? You think Reg and AJ…have a thing for each other? That can't be right. They're just friends. My baby brother isn't ready for a love life. I suddenly feel beyond my years!
You'll still love me when I'm an old shriveled man, right?
Pads
11th August 1974
James,
I had a lot of fun. We went to this thing called a water park. It's basically a Muggle place where there are a lot of water-themed rides and activities. I'll have to take you there. Maybe next summer you all can come to my place and we'll go. I think you'd really enjoy it.
The 19th is okay for me. I can't believe we're going to get together twice in one summer. We really need to hang out during the holidays more often.
Wormtail (I really like it!)
15th August 1974
Pads,
Dumbledore already makes enough exceptions for me. I'm not going to ask him to allow me not to come to school when everyone else will be there. Besides, then my parents would have to find a way to get me there, and they don't fly. I'll just sleep on the train and leave the feast early.
I like to keep you guessing, but since I'll be seeing you in a few days and I'd rather not have you whining all day, I'll tell you. I was thinking that somehow we could infuse our personalities into the map. I'm not sure how exactly we could do that, or what effect it would have, but talk about leaving our legacy.
James's flirting is a big part of why Lily doesn't want anything to do with him. Although lately he's been shooting smiles and winks at other girls too, especially Madam Rosmerta. Maybe he's finally getting over her. Or maybe he's just a very hormonal teenager.
Be happy that I spoiled one secret. The other you'll see for yourself.
Remus
16th August 1974
Pete,
That's a great idea. I was actually going to ask you all to my parents' annual New Year's party. It'll be a lot more fun for me since I usually have to make conversation with a bunch of boring business people.
I'll see you in a few days!
James
16th August 1974
Padsy-wadsy
You're absolutely right. We don't want to become predictable. Plus we'll have more planning time if we pull the prank later in the year. Now if only we had an idea of what we want to do…
I'm just making a conclusion based on what I've seen. They're a boy and a girl, they spend a lot of time together, he gave her a special nickname. All signs point to fancying!
Nothing could make me stop loving you, my dear.
Prongs
20th August 1974
GIRAFFE!
THAT'S YOUR BIG SURPRISE?! I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE HOW TALL YOU ARE ALL OF THE SUDDEN! I ONLY JUST SAW YOU A MONTH AGO WHAT THE BLOODY HELL HAPPENED?!
Sorry. Had to get that out of my system.
Anyway, since we couldn't talk in front of Reggie, I still think that you shouldn't be making the ride on the same day as the moon. I'm sure Dumbledore would rather you be healthy than on time. I just don't want you to stress your body out any more than it will be.
Also that infusing idea with the map is genius! Maybe little versions of ourselves can pop up and talk to whoever's using the map. That could be how we tell them about the secret passages and stuff!
I'm going with the hormonal theory. James's first priority is Lily but he's keeping an open mind. I think he's starting to realize that there's zero chance for him with her.
I'm going to have to make some kind of growing potion. I refuse to be shorter than you!
Sirius
24th August 1974
Sirius,
Puberty is an unpredictable beast, but I think it's only fair. I spent last year looking up every time I wanted to talk to you or James, and my neck could use a break. Besides, you might hit another growth spurt and catch up someday. After all, you're only 14.
I'll be fine, Pads. I've dealt with a lot worse. A couple days after my first transformation, I had to go to a family party, surrounded by Muggles who we couldn't explain anything to, so they kept asking me why I looked like I was about to die. I think I can handle a train ride with people who know what's wrong with me.
I'm glad you like the idea but I still don't know if it's possible. I predict we're going to be spending a lot of time in the library.
I know James would never want to admit this, but he's created his own downfall. A huge part of why Lily doesn't like him is because of how he treats Snape. She's never going to like someone who's mean to her best friend. But I also know that neither of you are likely to change your attitudes towards him.
Remus
28th August 1974
Any taller and you'd reach the Moon!
Maybe if I unlock my chi I can use it to magically grow my body. After all, if I can transform into a dog, how hard can it be to elongate myself?
You never told me that story. Don't you have any family that know about magic?
You may be right, but Snivelly hasn't exactly done anything to earn niceness. So I guess James and Lily just aren't meant to be.
See you in a few days!
Sirius
