Tuesday 14 January, 1992 Breakfast, Great Hall
That Tuesday morning would forever live in the hearts and minds of every student and staff at Hogwarts for a very long time. Someone had pranked the infamous Weasley Twins…
When the two boys walked into the Great Hall looking like a pair of redheaded pile of hair in robes, a song that was familiar to just about every muggleborn or -raised started playing,
"They're creepy and they're kooky,
Mysterious and spooky,
They're altogether ooky,
The Addams Family!
Those who knew the song began singing along while laughing uproariously. The twin piles of hair just looked at each other and you could see them give a much put-upon sigh of resignation. Once the song ended, a banner unfurled itself above the Head Table. It read:
The Heir of the Marauders is hereby putting the Weasley Twins on Notice,
The Kings of Pranks and Mayhem are back!
The Weasley Twins and anyone old enough to know who the Marauders were felt their eyes widen in shock and in some cases fright. The thought that there could be an heir to those miscreants was terrifying!
Snape had been quietly chuckling despite reading the message on the banner. It was, in his opinion, high time that someone had finally successfully gotten back to the Twins and given them a taste of their own medicine. He glanced over at Harry with a curious look on his face. Harry was just sitting there, staring straight ahead with a clear, nearly suppressed look of mirth on his face. Severus decided to question him later to get the details on how he pulled it off.
At morning tea, Severus approached Harry, "Harry? How'd you do it? That prank against the Twins this morning?"
Harry felt his face burst into a blush, a grin forming on his lips as he struggled in vain to keep either from forming, "Weeeelll…" he drawled, "I modified a Hair Growth potion and again spoke with the elves. I had them spike their toothpaste last night while the twins were asleep so they wouldn't suspect."
Severus chuckled, "What did you offer the elves to get them to do that?"
"New recipe I found back home for a pulled pork with pineapple relish taco dish. I think we'll be having it this Friday for dinner if I understood them correctly."
Severus shook his head in amusement, "I can't believe how easy you make it seem to get the elves to partake in these pranks. Recipes, cleaning supplies, tips and tricks from the muggle world? Who'd have thought that's what they like the best?"
"Boggles the mind, doesn't it sir?" Harry just grinned while Severus just chuckled.
"So how long will they remain like that?"
"Based on how much they probably used in brushing their teeth, I'd wager about another couple of hours. No more than the rest of the day. The fun part is, since it's in their toothpaste, the prank will repeat itself until they either run out of toothpaste or figure out which item of theirs is pranked." That set Severus off again in laughing at the thought of the Twins' ongoing predicament.
"One thing I'm curious about professor, is why you haven't thought of getting some revenge pranks in? What I'm doing is nothing more than potion-based pranks, something you could easily do yourself. As a Potions Master yourself, I'd have thought that you'd take a bit of retaliation relief against them to try and get the twins to grow up a bit."
Severus just gave a brief snort and turned his nose up in mock-pomposity, "I'm an adult and supposed to be above such petty actions." He then dropped his face to look again at Harry, "Besides, it never occurred to me to use the elves as a delivery method of said prank potions." Harry just nodded in acknowledgement while grinning.
In Charms class…
Harry's next prank wasn't so much a prank as it was a test of what he'd learned in the class. He took a blank glass sphere and charmed it to change color every time it was hit with an 'aculeatum' or stinging hex or an 'finite incantatum' or the spell canceling charm. He had etched it with the runic array to get it to float and drift in random patterns, altitudes and speeds. The reason why he did this was to practice his targeting abilities for DADA.
He sat in the back for today's class and quietly released the sphere. Flitwick's attention was on another student so he didn't notice anything amiss until a stray stinging hex nearly hit him on the arm. Flitwick glanced about sternly, wondering who dared to send such a hex his way when he saw the look of apologetic chagrin on Harry's face.
"Mr. Potter? Care to explain why you decided to attack me? Did I do something wrong?"
"Um… no sir, I was practicing with a new experiment and it got away from me. I'm sorry," he explained.
"I see… where is this experiment of yours then?" Flitwick inquired.
Harry looked up and Flitwick followed his gaze. Filius pulled out his wand and cast the spell canceling charm only for the sphere to change color and dart off in another direction. Filius looked down at Harry with a raised inquisitive eyebrow.
"Perhaps another explanation is in order, Mr. Potter?"
Harry explained why he had created the target sphere and briefly went over what charms were used. Flitwick was very impressed at the skill and daring that Harry demonstrated.
"So how do you retrieve it once you complete the training?" he asked of Harry.
"Summoning charm, professor."
"You know how to cast a Summoning charm?" Flitwick exclaimed, "That's Fourth year level work!" Harry just shrugged nonchalantly.
"Accio Targeting sphere!" cried Filius and the sphere darted into his hand. He then found the proper rune to deactivate it and handed it back to Harry.
"Five points to you, Mr. Potter, for outstanding charms work. You know, if you're not careful you just might run out of inventive ideas before you reach your OWL year." Flitwick said as Harry gave a lop-sided grin in response.
Thursday 16 January, 1992 DADA Classroom 13F
The Board of Governors had hired a new professor to replace the late, unlamented Quirnius Quirrel after the Auror that had been used before term let out for Christmas break was needed back in the Auror rotation. Their new teacher was someone that Harry was becoming very familiar with, Remus Lupin. Right off the bat, Remus was proving to be an exceptional teacher. He was patient with the slower students; he was extremely knowledgeable in the relevant topic of the day and didn't require too much in the way of homework.
"Welcome to a new year everyone! My name is Remus Lupin and this term we will be covering the basics of personal defense. Just some of the things we will be discussing are how to identify threats and how to respond to them. For example, could anyone give me an example of the most common sort of threat a child might face?"
Answers ranged from angry or violent relatives to various types of animals. Professor Lupin then took each of the answers and walked everyone through on how to deal with them as need be. The class took diligent notes and as they were leaving after the bell rang, their pleased chatter echoed through the hallway. Harry stayed behind to congratulate Remus.
"Awesome first day on the job, professor!" Harry teased gently.
Remus just gave him a small grin, "Thank you, Harry. It feels good to have a job again where I don't have to worry whether or not the manager will let me have time off for the full-moon. Plus, it feels good to be back at my old school."
"Speaking of the full moon, do you have enough Benadryll on hand?" Harry asked concernedly to which Remus nodded.
"Yup, picked up a couple of boxes before I arrived yesterday morning just in case. I still have the one you gave me for Christmas but better safe than sorry, right?" Harry grinned back.
He sobered up a bit for the next question, "Any word as to when I might get to meet Sirius? I know that he was remanded to Saint Mungo's for their post-Azkaban prisoner rehabilitation program."
"I sent him a letter last week and he wrote back. He seems to be in good spirits; which is hardly surprising considering he's finally away from that hellhole. He says he's also looking forward to meeting you again and hopes that you're doing well. There were a bunch of other things that were personal in nature so I won't bore you with the details. I was thinking that this weekend unless I have something come up that needs my attention, I would go over and visit with him. If I get the permission from the Healer and Professor McGonagall, would you like to join me?"
"Yes, please! That would be great," Harry glanced at his watch, "I've got to be going, I have Astronomy class next and I bet the stairs are going to be a pain in the butt today."
Harry gave Remus a goodbye hug and a wave then headed off to his next class.
That evening in the Library before curfew…
Harry was reading a manuscript that he had found lying on his favorite table when Hermione and Dean Thomas found him.
"Whatcha got there, Harry?" asked Dean.
"Found this manuscript for what appears to be a children's story. It's really good despite a bit needed tweaking. It's called, 'Puddles the Clown and the Sad Circus.' From what I've read so far, it's about a clown that works for a failing circus and needs to find a way to bring laughter back to the acts. He gets the bright idea to invent the Cheering Charm and the Tickling Hex. The rest of the story so far is about Puddles' journey to discover how to create the charm and hex."
"Is it accurate about how the two were invented? Sounds like a far-fetched way to tell a story," commented Hermione.
"I think it's fairly accurate. It covers the information we learned in class and I think if we were to check the History section of the library, we'd find out if the rest were correct. I like the story, though. It's light-hearted and clever without bogging down on details. If I were to publish this, I would put it at the five to seven year old children age range."
"Who wrote this, is there a name?" inquired Dean as he read a bit over Harry's shoulder.
Harry flipped back to the cover page and pointed to the name, 'Millie B.' Just then the three of them heard a strangled squeak of shock and looked up. First year Slytherin student, Millicent Bulstrode was staring at them with wide, terrified eyes. Dean put two and two together; this must be the author.
"Millie? You're the 'Millie B' who wrote this story?" Millicent just mutely nodded.
"I love the story," replied Harry, "Have you considered getting it published?"
Millicent hesitated nervously then spoke in a quiet voice that belied her large size, "I've dreamt about it but who would want to publish something this light-hearted from a Slytherin?"
Hermione gave an indignant squeal of disbelief, "Who's said that? I mean, I only glanced at the script but I liked what I read. It's cute and funny!" A shy smile crept onto Millicent's face.
Harry stood up and approached the nervous girl, "Millicent, have you checked your history of the charm and hex?" She nodded, "Then I suggest you go to Professor Flitwick and turn this in. You did an absolutely fantastic job here and I'm sure that he'd help you iron out any of the details."
"I-I don't know…" she stammered, "what if he doesn't like it or doesn't believe that I did this. I mean, I know that most people look upon me as a miniature troll." She dropped her head in muted shame for letting that information get out.
Harry lifted her chin with his finger, "There's only one way to find out. Now, let's all go and see the professor. Work like this should be shared with everyone."
So the four students traipsed their way up the stairs to Professor Flitwick's office. When they were bid to enter, Harry put the manuscript down on the professor's desk. Flitwick gave them a curious look but picked up the script and began to read. A small smile grew to a large one before completely dissolving to uproarious laughter.
"This is hilarious! Who wrote this?" he exclaimed. Millie raised her hand shyly.
"It was me, sir."
"Fantastic job, Miss Bulstrode. So, Mr. Potter, I can see your determination in bringing this to my attention but what is it that you think ought to be done?"
"I was hoping that you'd work with Millicent and work on getting this illustrated and published. It's too good not to share with the younger children." Harry replied.
Dean spoke up, "I just quickly glanced at it, professor and I'd be happy to donate my time to come up with a few trial sketches. I like the story concept and would like to help." Millicent gave him a genuine smile and nodded. Dean's work was known throughout the castle and of high quality.
Hermione quipped at that, "This is an act of history in the making. A Lion and a Snake working together for the betterment of literature." The other occupants in the room just laughed.
Sunday 19 January, 1992 Shrieking Shack, Hogsmeade
It had been rumored to be the most haunted building in all of Britain. Stories of vengeful and violent ghosts abounded but in reality; the shrieks and howls were caused by just one being. As the moon rose into the sky, Remus Lupin again began the transformation into the werewolf known as Moony. What was different this time from all the rest was Remus had taken the dose of Benadryll and had a bit of company, though said company wasn't even remotely human.
Harry observed the transformation through the lens of the Student's Helper and took copious amounts of notes. He was naturally horrified at what transpired and it tore at his heart that he couldn't be there in person to offer a hug or any sort of comfort to his honorary uncle. He continued his vigil until he fell asleep knowing that the other sphere in the room, a Memory Sphere, would continue to record everything that happened.
The next morning, Harry greeted Remus as he entered the Infirmary. Remus was lying in one of the beds nursing a pain reliever potion and reading the morning paper. At the sound of the door opening, Remus looked up and spotted Harry entering the room.
"Good morning, Cub."
"Hi, Uncle Remus. Um, you don't mind if I call you that, do you?"
"Not in the least. So, did you get all the information you needed last night?" Remus asked.
"Yup, it was horrifying to watch but, yeah, I got it all. I'm sorry that you have to go through that every full moon."
"Don't worry about it, Harry. I'm used to it. I'm just worried that the parents will have a problem with someone like me teaching their children and I'd be forced to leave. It's nice to have a stable job."
Harry got a sneaky smirk on his face that reminded Remus of Harry's father, "Weeeelll, I could speak with my friends and pass the word along that you're here as part of a trial program. That having you here in the castle is a matter of historic importance. Let them run with the rumor and let things progress on their own. Ooh! I know, I could tell them that you're going to be featured in a Care of Magical Creatures class. 'How much tummy rubbing can a werewolf handle before the feet start kicking…'"
Remus could only chuckle, "You're just as bad as your father, you know that Harry? He came up with some wild plans and ideas to explain my condition as well. The only one that did work was when he, Sirius and Peter became Animagi during our fifth year."
Harry stopped moving and a shining light appeared in his eyes, "My dad could turn into an animal? What kind? What about Sirius and Peter?"
"Your father was able to transform into a large stag. Sirius could turn into a large black dog reminiscent of the Grimm and Peter could turn into a fat, brown rat…. Harry? What's the matter?" Remus paused when he spotted the shock on Harry's face.
"Remus… is it possible to look at an animal and know that something just feels… off?"
Remus nodded slowly, wondering where this question was going.
"There's a Gryffindor student, Ron Weasley, who has a fat brown rat as a pet. I can't explain it but whenever I'm near it, it squeaks in terror and hides. My owl, Hedwig, also reacts with anger whenever she sees the rat. Now even I know, that's not a normal reaction from an owl to a rat."
Remus sat up suddenly, all remnants of pain forgotten, "Where is he? Any idea?" But Harry shook his head 'no.'
"He and I don't have classes together but what if you were to contact the Aurors first? Let them handle it?" Harry suggested as he placed his hands on Remus' shoulders.
Remus sighed as he leaned back onto the bed, "You're right, of course Harry. The residual pain is making it difficult for me to think straight. Ok, I know that you've been in contact with Amelia Bones so why don't you send her a letter and get that track started. In the meantime, I'm going to be a good boy and lie here quietly. Otherwise, Madam Pomfrey over there is going to be mad at me." Madam Pomfrey was giving the two of them a stern look of disapproval while Harry and Remus exchanged sheepish looks.
In the Great Hall…
Harry arrived in the middle of the breakfast rush but was waylaid by Millicent practically tackling and nearly hugging the stuffing out of him. Her face was lit up with rapturous joy and she just about bounced up and down while telling him about how well the editing of her story was going and how Professor Flitwick had gotten in contact with a publisher friend of his. This friend had read a draft of the story and was highly interested in getting it out to the masses by Easter at the latest.
"So what's left to do with the editing?" Harry asked.
"Some font style to make it easier to read and the charms to animate the pictures that Dean has drawn. Oooh! I'm so excited! I wrote to my parents after I got word from Professor Flitwick that his friend was going to publish my story. They're very excited and proud of me!"
"Well, why wouldn't they? It's not every day that a talented first year like yourself makes a name in the literary world." Harry complimented back.
Millicent got a bit an ashamed look on her face and slightly shuffled her feet, "Before all this happened, I could tell that my parents just looked at me as nothing more than a dumb enforcer for some rich lord or something. They didn't actually come out and say it but that was the feeling I got whenever my father would discuss potential suitors with his friends."
"But now you don't have to worry about that. This is a happy time, put away those past memories. They no longer apply to you." Harry instructed gently, gave her another hug and wished her a good day. He managed to get to the Hufflepuff table and pull together a quick breakfast before all the good stuff was eaten.
Wednesday 22 January, 1992 Hogwarts Main Gates
"Thank you for joining us, Madam Bones," Minerva said. Amelia nodded and asked for greater detail of the report regarding Pettigrew as they were walking up the driveway to the castle.
"Well, I was approached by Mr. Harry Potter and Professor Remus Lupin yesterday. The two had been talking to each other the morning after the full moon on Sunday. According to Harry, he was checking in with his honorary uncle and also his 'test patient.' Somehow the topic got onto Animagi and Harry had mentioned that one of our first year Gryffindors, Ronald Weasley, had a pet rat that just didn't feel right. Long story short, Remus came seeking me out and explained the conversation; then I contacted you."
The group made their way up the stairs and into the Gryffindor Common Room. Upon entering, Amelia spotted both the boy and the rat sitting together on a chair in front of the fireplace. Just to be on the safe side, she pulled out her wand and cast a Stupefy at the both of them. One of the Aurors cast an Animagus Revealing Charm and the rat glowed red. She had one Auror capture the rat and locked it in a cage; the boy was revived.
"Wha? Whuzzgoinon?" Ron mumbled.
"Mr. Weasley, my name is Madam Amelia Bones. I'm the Director of the Magical Law Enforcement and I'm here to let you know that we're confiscating your rat under the suspicision of it being an illegal Animagus." Amelia stated.
Ron just blinked owlishly at Amelia, the two Aurors and Minerva before fear set in and he began to panic, "Scabbers? Anim-whatis? Wha-what's going to happen to me? Am I in trouble?"
"Not at this time, Mr. Weasley however I will need to ask you a few questions. Being that you're underage, I'll need to contact your parents. Would you prefer either your mother or father here?"
"Um… my dad. Mum gets a little… um, vocal." Ron said to the amused chuckling of Minerva.
"Very well, Mr. Weasley. Minerva? Is there a conference room we could use?" Minerva nodded and led the group to the second floor and into an unused conference room. The two Aurors took the trapped rat back to the DMLE's holding cells without further delay.
Ten minutes later, Arthur Weasley arrived and inquired what was going on. Upon hearing that Ronald's rat was actually an illegal Animagus, he got a distinct greenish tint to his face and sat down rather heavily.
"An Animagus? Do you know who it is?"
"According to the anonymous tip, it's supposed to be Peter Pettigrew," replied Amelia.
"Pettigrew! Wait, wasn't he supposedly killed by Sirius Black?" Arthur exclaimed.
"Arthur, didn't you read the papers stating that Black was innocent?" asked Minerva, "That news came out back last month."
Arthur just shook his head, "No, we were out of the country visiting family in Romania," he took a deep calming breath, "Okay, what is it that you wanted to know?"
Amelia questioned Ronald and his father at length before asking Minerva to retrieve Percy Weasley as it turned out the older boy had the rat longer. Percy turned a sickly green when the realization that he had a criminal sleeping in his bed, had kissed the rat a number of times and had been in the presence of said criminal while changing. Amelia thoughtfully conjured up a wastebasket for the teen to vomit in then vanished it when done. Once all the interviews were completed, Amelia assured all the Weasleys that they weren't in any real trouble but urged them to be more cautious in the future.