Everything Black

by BrooklynFazenbaker

Adeline Shafiq is proper and well behaved. She has a sharp wit and is a potions prodigy. She is everything that a pureblood princess is supposed to be. Except she's not a pureblood. Follow Adeline, who is willing to kill to protect her friends from the dark lord who is obsessed with her, as she navigates the wizarding world and a marriage contract with the Black family.

7. Chapter 7

I do not own Harry Potter

Chapter Seven

"Excellent," Tom smiled. "You've fixed it."

"Not completely," Adeline smiled as she stirred the potion. "I still wasn't able to find a way to completely remove the infatuation and the madness that would affect the drinker. I did lessen it though."

"It's amazing," Tom smiled before moving on. "We've been doing these lessons for two months now. You've mastered everything you've faced. What do you want to learn next?"

"I feel like I'm getting more out of these lessons than you are," Adeline smirked as they headed to the library.

"No," Tom shook his head with a smile. "I enjoy your company. It's refreshing."

"I'm refreshing?" she asked with a small smile.

"You are," Tom nodded before grabbing a dark arts book from the top of a shelf. "Try this one next."

"Will do," Adeline smiled. "May I ask you a question?"

"Of course."

"Why did you want to have these lessons with me?" Adeline asked curiously as they sat on the lounger. "Is it because of who my family is?"

"I wanted these private lessons with you because of the young girl that I ran into in a secondhand bookstore that was searching for books that were beyond her years," Tom told her. "When I was your age, I was an orphan and I didn't have a magical family that was willing to take me in and raise me as you did. I wanted more knowledge and I wanted more than I was given. So, I swore to myself that if I ever met someone who reminded me of myself, I would help them in any way that I could. You remind me of my younger self. You have more power than you even realize and you have this thirst for knowledge. It's amazing."

Adeline sat in silence for a few minutes, just replaying his words in her head over and over. She looked to Tom, watching him as he fidgeted nervously. She gave him a small smile before speaking.

"Thank you," she whispered.

"For?" he asked, confused.

"For not wanting me around because of the power that my family has," she explained. "Most people try to get in my good graces because I'm Lady Shafiq or future Lady Black. You're refreshing, too."

Tom gave her a smile before they heard a crash from the hallway, causing them both to turn and face whoever had come into the manor. Tom was on his feet instantly, wand out and pointed at the intruder, body standing in front of Adeline's protectively. Adeline's wand was out as well, moving to Tom's side instantly. Tom stepped slightly in front of her, giving her a pointed look.

Adeline gave him a small nod, taking a half step back, wand still raised. Tom walked forward, approaching the door and pausing to open it slowly. He peeked out the door into the hall before opening the door the rest of the way. He raised his wand in front of himself and looked back to Adeline.

"Stay here," he whispered to her before leaving the library, closing the door behind himself.

Adeline watched him go, not sure what to do. She tried to control her breathing, annoyed with herself for giving Tiffy the day off to spend with Wobky now. She moved towards the door, pressing her ear against it and listening intently for any footfalls or spell casting. She heard footsteps rushing towards the door and backed away quickly, wand raised and ready to defend herself.

The doors exploded and Adeline covered her face with her arms as splitters rained around her, the larger pieces of wood missing her somehow. She turned in time to see a blast of green coming straight towards her. Adeline ducked out of the way, shooting multiple spells rapidly in the direction that the killing curse had come from. She made a thick fog fill the room and heard two different voices yelling out to each other. She silenced her feet before moving towards one of the voices until she came up behind a tall, burly man.

"Incarcerous," she whispered and thick, black ropes tied around the man.

He yelled out, alerting the other man of where she was. She moved away quickly, running straight into the other man. He backhanded her, sending her to the ground. She grunted at the sheer force of the hit before turning back to the man. He smiled at her, yellow teeth gleaming and a scar running down his face. He pointed his wand at her and Adeline threw herself to the side to avoid the blast. She threw up her strongest shield and ran towards the exit.

The man yelled out, throwing more spells at her. She felt her shield break and began dodging the spells. Blasting curses caused the walls around her to explode and books and shelves to dislodge, flying around her. She pointed her wand behind her, sending simple fireworks at the man before hiding in the fog, unsure how to get away from him.

"Little girl, little girl," the man whispered. "Where did you go?"

"Get me out of these ropes," the other man demanded and Adeline heard him grunt a thanks before hearing two sets of footsteps walking through the fog. "Where is the little bitch?"

"She's very pretty," the second man stated. "We should have some fun with her first."

Adeline made a decision then that she needed to use any spell she could to get out of the library. She took a few deep breaths before stepping out of her hiding place. She walked towards the steps. She stopped just ahead of them, raising her wand. They continued calling out taunts and Adeline smirked, knowing they wouldn't hear her whisper anything with how loud they were being.

"Expulso," she whispered, smiling widely when she heard screaming and saw blood through the fog.

Blood landed on her and she ducked as a green curse flew in her general direction followed by two more shot in the same direction. She stood to get a better angle and was hit by a blue spell in her side. She held in her gasp of pain before pointing her wand forward.

"Transmogrify," she yelled, aiming where the spells had come from.

She heard screams of pain before silence fell over the library. Adeline removed the fog from the room, staring down at the two bodies before hearing a yell coming from the sitting room. Adeline ran from the room, steps still silent. She found Tom on the floor, a man on top of him with a large knife. He was struggling against the man, the knife centimeters from his throat.

"Lacarnum inflamarae!" she yelled and a large fireball shot from her wand.

The man turned just in time to watch as the fireball hit him. He flew backwards from the force of the spell as flames overtook his body. He screamed in pain for a few minutes, Adeline and Tom just watching as he burned to death.

"I thought I told you to stay in the library," Tom breathed heavily.

"I did," she argued. "Two others found me."

"Where are they?" he demanded, standing and finally looking at her. "Merlin."

"Dead," she told him. "Sorry about the mess."

"No need to apologize," he shook his head rushing forward and conjuring a chair. "Sit. I'll call for help."

"No!" Adeline yelled, reaching out and grabbing Tom's arm. "You have too many dark objects in your home. If you call aurors, they'll arrest you. If you call the Blacks, they'll ask where my escort is and I don't feel like dealing with that."

"Who should I call then?" Tom asked, eyes locked on her.

"I don't know," she admitted, looking down.

Tom kneeled in front of her.

"Are you okay?" he asked.

"I just killed three people and my side hurts from a spell. I've been loads better," she raised her brow.

"Get out of here," Tom told her. "I'll call the Blacks when you're gone and tell them you had already left for the day. Get to your home and get cleaned up. Send for one of your friends to come keep an eye on you."

"Someone's already at my house," Adeline told him. "They'll patch me up."

"Send for me if you need me," Adeline nodded and Tom grabbed her arm, stopping her. "I mean it, Adie. If something goes wrong or you need anything, send for me. I'll be there as soon as I can."

"I will," she promised. "Help me to the floo?"

Tom lifted Adeline easily, carrying her to the main room and setting her on her feet by the floo. Adeline flooed directly to Shafiq manor, the wards recognizing her and letting her through. She stumbled out of the floo and was extremely grateful that no one was in the room in that moment, sure she looked like Hell. She tried to take a step and gasped in pain, falling to her knees.

"Tiffy! Wobky!" she yelled out and the two elves appeared instantly, both gasping when they saw her. "Tiffy, Remus is here somewhere. Find him, please. Wobky I need healing and pain potions from my lab."

Both popped away immediately. Adeline crawled to the couch, pulling herself onto it. Wobky reappeared first, uncorking the vials and helping Adeline tip them back into her mouth. She swallowed thickly before hearing the thunder of multiple footsteps in the room above her. Tiffy appeared with Remus then, who rushed to her when he saw the state she was in.

"What happened?" he demanded, waving his wand over her with a diagnostics spell. "You have three cracked ribs."

"Skele-Gro, Wobky," Adeline demanded and the elf popped away again.

Adeline heard steps rushing down the stairs as Remus kneeled in front of her, taking her hand in his.

"Who's here?" she asked softly.

"James and Peter. Sirius will be here later tonight," he explained.

"He'll be here before then," Adeline sighed as the other two boys ran in. "Down here!"

James and Peter came around the couch then, both gasping at the sight of her.

"I'm okay," she promised when she saw the fear in Peter's eyes.

"You're covered in blood," he whispered.

"Not mine," she told him as Wobky appeared and helped her drink the Skele-Gro.

"What happened?" Remus asked again.

"I was at my lesson with Tom and people broke into his home. He went to head them off but two of them found me. I fought them and went looking for Tom. He sent me away so that Walburga wouldn't find me there without an escort," she explained, voice soft.

"Who's blood are you covered in?" Peter squeaked out and Adeline flinched at the question.

"One of theirs?" Remus asked, voice still soft.

"They were trying to kill me," she said, voice breaking slightly as she realized what she had done, the three dead bodies flashing through her mind. "They were going to use me and then kill me."

"You protected yourself," Remus told her firmly. "No one is mad at you for it."

Adeline simply nodded as tears filled her eyes.

"Let's get you bathed," Remus said.

"Mistress shouldn't be alone with potions in her system," Wobky stated. "Mistress needs a female to help care for her while she heals."

"Where's your journal to Lily?" Remus asked.

Tiffy snapped her fingers and the journal appeared, along with a pen. Remus accepted both items and passed them to Adeline.

"Tell her to get to Severus' floo and get here," Remus told her. "Tell her it's an emergency."

"Sev doesn't have a floo," Adeline shook her head.

"I've got it," James stated, disappearing into the floo.

The floo lit up right after he left, Sirius walked out of it. He stared at the scene in front of him for a moment in confusion before rushing forward, Remus moving aside so Sirius could get to Adeline. He grabbed her hands, not sure what to do as he stared at her in horror. James came back through the floo then, his mother directly behind him.

"Let me through," Mia demanded and Sirius immediately moved out of the way. "Adeline, look at me."

Adeline stared at Mia, eyes glazing over slightly from the potions she'd taken.

"Mistress has taken healing potions and pain relief," Wobky explained.

Mia nodded before waving her wand over Adeline, noting the ribs that were starting to heal and Adeline's busted lip. She pointed her wand at Adeline's mouth, muttering under her breath and causing her lip to heal, a small scar marring her face.

"Who's blood is this?' Mia demanded of the boys.

"We don't know," Remus stated. "She came home like this. Said there was an attack at her tutors house and she was sent home while authorities dealt with it."

"They didn't send her to St. Mungo's?" Mia asked in disbelief.

"I'm fine," Adeline mumbled. "No Mungo."

"You need to be seen by healers," Mia argued.

"Mom," James said roughly. "The Blacks can't know what happened."

"Why not?" Mia demanded and James looked to Sirius.

Mia turned to face the boy then. Sirius stared in confusion before he looked to Adeline in annoyance.

"Where was your escort?" he demanded.

"Day off," Adeline shrugged.

"Adie," Sirius groaned, rubbing his face before looking to Mia. "My parents can't know."

"Why not?" Mia demanded again.

"Because they'll punish her for being somewhere without an escort," Sirius tried.

"They would ground her for not having an elf with her?" Mia asked, confused.

"No," Sirius shook his head. "Please, Misses Potter. Just trust me. They can't know."

"Fine," Mia grumbled, turning to Adeline. "Up you get. We need to get the blood off of you."

Mia and Adeline followed Sirius as he led them to the master bedroom on the first floor that had its own on suite. He left them alone then, Tiffy popping in with pajamas for Adeline. Mia led Adeline into the bathroom, sitting her on the toilet seat as she prepared the water. Once the water was warm enough, Mia turned to Adeline, helping her undress and climb into the bubble bath. The water began turning red as Mia handed her a washcloth.

Adeline ran the cloth over her body, scrubbing hard at the blood. Mia took the cloth, worried Adeline was going to hurt herself. Tears began falling down Adeline's eyes as her breathing came out hard, sobbing roughly.

"What happened, sweet girl?" Mia asked, kneeling beside the tub and holding Adeline's hand.

"I killed them. They were trying to kill us. They shot killing curses at me and were going to- they were going to- he thought I was pretty," she choked out and Mia's eyes widened in understanding. "I killed them. I killed them. I killed them."

"Shh," Mia whispered softly. "You're okay. You're here. I've got you."

Mia calmed Adeline before helping her finished getting the blood washed away. Once the blood was out of Adeline's hair, Mia unplugged the tub and helped Adeline stand. She turned on the shower, water hot as it cascaded down Adeline's body. Once the red water was completely gone, Mia turned the water off and wrapped Adeline in a warm towel. Adeline dried herself, slowly coming back around as the potions wore off, the Skele-Gro having finished healing her ribs now.

Adeline dressed quickly, wanting to get back to her boys as soon as possible. She turned to Mia once she was dressed, unsure how to thank her. Mia gave her a gentle smile, pulling her into a tight hug that reminded Adeline of her birth mother. She let out a deep breath and dug her face into Mia's shoulder, just enjoying the feeling of a loving mother for a moment. After a few moments, Mia led Adeline out of the room and to the sitting room where the boys sat quietly, refusing to speak as they waited for Adeline to return.

"Boys?" Mia gathered their attention.

Sirius was moving the moment he saw Adeline, rushing over to her and pulling her into his embrace. Adeline sank into the touch, breathing in his scent as their arms wrapped around each other. Sirius buried his face in her hair, his worry for her melting away now that the blood was gone. They stayed quiet as the other boys joined them, wrapping Adeline in a group hug. Mia cleared her throat and everyone separated slightly, still finding ways to touch each other in some sort of small way, even Peter who was holding Adeline's hand.

"We need to get some food in all of you," she sighed.

"Tiffy cooked, miss," Tiffy spoke up as she popped into the room. "All of mistresses favorites. Is mistress hurt?"

"I'm okay, Tiffy," Adeline promised, patting Tiffy's head.

"Would mistresses new friend like to stay for dinner?" Tiffy asked Mia.

"I would actually prefer to stay the night so that I can keep an eye on Adeline," Mia spoke up.

Tiffy looked to Adeline for direction.

"Tiffy, this is James' mother," Adeline explained.

"Young James is mistresses friend," Tiffy nodded. "Mistresses friend's families are always welcome."

"Exactly," Adeline smiled.

"Dinner is ready, mistress," Wobky announced from the doorway. "Wobky has plates for everyone prepared."

"Thank you, Wobky," Adeline sighed, walking towards him and rubbing his head. "I'm sorry if I yelled at you earlier."

"Mistress needed help," Wobky shook his head. "Mistress did no wrong."

Adeline kneeled down and hugged Wobky close. Wobky hugged her back before they pulled away from each other and Adeline lead the crowd behind her to the kitchen. Once everyone had finished their meals, Adeline walked carefully up the stairs towards her room, her side sore from her bruised ribs. Sirius appeared by her side, helping her up the stairs and to her room, sitting beside her on her bed.

She pulled out her journal to Tom, writing to him to ask if he was alright. Once he had responded that he was uninjured and everything had been taken care of, she asked if he knew who the men were. He told her he would explain later and asked about her injuries. After assuring him that she was fine, she bid him goodnight and shut the journal, tossing it onto the desk beside her. Sirius took her hands in his, staring into her eyes.

"I never want to see you like that again," he admitted. "I was terrified."

"I'm okay," she promised, rubbing his hand with her thumb.

"What really happened?" Sirius asked, his voice soft.

"We were in the library and we heard crashing. Tom told me to stay in the library and left to figure out what was happening. I listened at the door and heard people coming towards the library. They blew the door up and spells began flying. I used the nebulus spell and snuck up on one of them but the other guy found me. He hit me and I hid while he released the other guy. The one who hit me said I was pretty and they should have some fun with me before they kill me. I blew up his stomach and disfigured the other one before removing the fog and going to find Tom.

"There was a third man attacking him. He had a knife to Tom's throat and was about to kill him. I threw a fireball at him and Tom and I just watched him burn to death. We were both just frozen there. I didn't know what to do.

"Tom said he was going to call for help and I reminded him that he had dark objects in the house and that I didn't have Tiffy with me. He sent me away so that he could call your parents to help him with everything. I showed up here not long before you."

"Dad sent me away after getting an urgent message. He wouldn't tell me what it was but Reggie and I were both dismissed for the day. Reggie went home and I came here," Sirius explained. "It must have been him."

"Must have," Adeline nodded.

"Adie?" Sirius said nervously. "How did they know you were in the library? If he was already wondering around the house, wouldn't they have gone after him?"

Adeline sat quietly for a bit, mulling over what Sirius had said. How had they known she was in the library? They hadn't even tried checking the other rooms, just immediately blown the doors up and began firing spells. Adeline had defeated two grown wizards without too much difficulty, just a few broken ribs and a busted lip, but Tom hadn't been able to defend himself from one wizard? How had they even gotten into his home? Adeline knew it had been warded from intruders, Tom had told her himself. It didn't make sense to her.

"I don't know," she shook. "I don't think I should go to my lessons with him anymore though. It isn't safe."

"Agreed," Sirius nodded. "If he wants to speak with you, my father or I need to be present."

"How do we explain that to your father without telling him I was there though?" Adeline questioned.

"I'll tell father that Tom told you about the break in and you don't feel safe anymore," Sirius stated. "We need to figure out who they were."

"He said he'd explain tomorrow," Adeline sighed. "I don't trust him to tell me the truth though."

"Well, tell me what he tells you, and we'll go from there," Sirius stated. "If need be, we'll do a bit of research and figure it out on our own. The picnic is in two weeks and school starts again in three. You can tell him you're busy for the remainder of summer with all of that."

"Okay," Adeline nodded. "I need to help your mother with preparations anyhow, so it isn't a lie."

"We'll go to the manor the day after tomorrow for the remainder of the summer," Sirius stated. "I need you to promise to call for Tiffy, Wobky, or Kreacher next time. They'll get you out of any trouble you're in and you can get to me so that I know you're safe."

"I will," Adeline nodded. "I solemnly swear."

Sirius gave her a small smile before pulling her close. The two laid down, Sirius holding Adeline close. The next morning, James gave Remus his potion and the boys left, Mia following close behind after checking over Adeline again. Adeline and Remus went to the clearing with blankets and pillows later that day, watching as the sky grew dark. Adeline stepped away from Remus as he shifted, watching and wondering if she could make the shift painless somehow. When the wolf stared back at her, she gave a small smile before sending him to run off his energy.

Adeline stared up at the stars, listening as the wolf howled, running through the woods without abandon since the Wobky hadn't set up wards around the forest for them this time around, Adeline knowing Remus wasn't dangerous. She heard a branch snap from a different direction and transformed into a bird, hiding in the tall grass. She saw three figures wondering towards her, not recognizing the men that stalked the area. She hopped along the grass as quickly as she could before taking flight, flying into the trees towards where she knew Remus was.

She turned into a human, landing beside where Remus was drinking water from the pond.

"Tiffy, Wobky," she whispered.

The two elves appeared with a loud crack and Adeline flinched at the sound.

"There are men in the forest," she explained to them in a whisper. "We're being hunted."

Remus growled low and Adeline shushed him, hearing voices in the distance.

"Tiffy, get to Black Manor and tell them what's happening. Leave Remus out of it. Just tell them I was taking a walk when men showed up and I hid in the forest. Wobky, I need you to find a safe place for Remus. He won't hurt you. Both of you, go. We'll hide."

The two elves popped away and Adeline turned into a bird. Remus lifted her with his paw, holding her carefully before taking off on his hind legs, running through the forest faster than any human could. Once they were far away and Remus couldn't hear them with his wolf ears, he released Adeline. She turned human again and they hid by a large tree. Wobky appeared a few minutes later, grabbing Remus before either of them could react and disappearing with him to a safe house. Adeline let out a relieved breath before turning into a bird and flying away from the hiding spot. She flew above the trees, searching from above and finding seven wizards spread out below her, two in the area she had just occupied.

She flew towards Shafiq manor, landing in the front yard as the Blacks apparated just outside the gate. Adeline flew to them, transforming once she was close enough and realizing that all of the wards around the house had been destroyed. She ran to Orion and Walburga as shouts were heard from the front of the house. Adeline turned, seeing more wizards walking towards them. More pops were heard behind the and Adeline gasped, wand in hand as she stood beside Walburga.

Tom, Sissy, Lucy, Bella, Rudolphus, the Rosier's, the Crabbe's and the Goyle's stood behind her now, wands drawn as they looked to the unknown wizards. Walburga let out a harsh breath and Adeline turned to her would-be-hunters. The wizards from the forest had joined the group now, fifteen of them in total. A spell shot towards Walburga, bouncing off her shield but causing Adeline to snarl at the wizard. She shot a spell back, standing in front of Walburga protectively.

Walburga pulled her back, Tom moving forward to hide Adeline as well. Adeline rolled her eyes and pushed herself to stand between them, wand raised high. Spells began flying then, Adeline fighting with everything she had as everyone spread out. Walburga let out a pained gasp from somewhere to her left and Adeline felt rage fill her, a scream escaping her throat.

"Pestis incendium!" she yelled, controlling the spell easily and pointing it at the unknown wizards.

Several of them caught fire, screaming in pain. Adeline directed the fire that the Shafiq's had created, knowing how it worked inside and out thanks to her adoptive parents teachings. The wizards that weren't caught in the fire, turned their wands to Adeline and she lifted her free hand, screaming as she pushed her magic out, throwing the wizards that dared to attack a Black. The wizards flew backwards and were caught by fiendfyre that had taken the shape of a raven.

"Cessat ignis maledictionem," Adeline spoke clearly and the fire extinguished.

She stared around at the ashes and charred bodies. The ground was scorched, still smoking from the flames. Adeline turned to find Orion lifting Walburga to her feet. Walburga opened her arms and Adeline ran to her, wrapping her in a tight hug. Walburga held her tightly, whispering so quietly that Adeline could just barely hear her.

"You're alright. You're alright. They didn't hurt you. They didn't get my daughter. My daughter."

"I'm alright," Adeline promised her, refusing to let go of Walburga.

Walburga simply held her tighter as Bella and Sissy joined them and the men began moving around the yard. Sissy wrapped her arms around Walburga and Adeline as Bella just watched on. Rudolphus nodded to her and Bella joined the hug, holding all of the women close to her. Adeline felt lightheaded, her magical core drained a bit from over exertion. Walburga felt Adeline swaying and called out to Orion, telling him she was taking Adeline home.

The woman all disappeared together, reappearing in the Black Manor. Sirius and Regulus stopped pacing as the women appeared, Sirius rushing forward and catching Adeline as she crumpled to the ground.

"What happened?" he asked his mother as he lifted Adeline into his arms and laid her on the couch.

"The wards around Shafiq manor were destroyed as they were at the Dark Lord's. They were there to kill her," Walburga explained. "Kreacher!"

Kreacher appeared bowing low before seeing Adeline. His eyes filled with tears and Walburga grabbed his ear, demanding his attention.

"I need replenishing potions for Lady Shafiq now," she stated.

Kreacher snapped his fingers and the vials appeared. Walburga grabbed the vials and spelled the potions into Adeline's system. Walburga turned to Sirius then.

"None of you are to leave this house for the next three weeks. Is that understood?"

"Yes, mother," Sirius and Regulus stated.

Pops were heard throughout the room as the others joined them, Tom staring at Adeline from where she was passed out on the couch.

"We've taken care of the bodies," Orion stated. "No one will find them."

"It has to be due to the engagement," Walburga stated. "They waited to make a move against her until then."

"They will not end the Shafiq line," Orion promised his wife, taking her hands. "She is ours to protect now."

"They will not harm my daughter," Walburga said fiercely. "I will not allow it."

Adeline groaned slightly, her hand coming up to rub her head. Walburga was at her side in an instant, Sirius remaining in his spot. Adeline's blue eyes cracked open and she stared into his dark eyes. She groaned again before sitting up, Sirius helping her.

"What happened?" she asked.

"What do you remember?" Walburga asked.

"I remember the fight," Adeline stated. "I remember running to you after. Everything after that is a bit hazy."

"You used quite a bit of magic," Walburga explained softly. "Why would you use that spell?"

"They hurt you," Adeline said, seeming confused by the question.

"Your bracelet kept me from coming to harm. I was simply knocked back," Walburga shook her head. "Why that spell?"

"They hurt you," Adeline said, anger clear in her voice. "No one hurts you while I'm around."

Walburga pulled Adeline close, hugging her tightly with tears in her eyes. Adeline held her back, eyes closed as she refused to look at anyone else in the room.

"Are you tired?" Walburga asked.

"Yes," Adeline answered honestly.

"Let's get you to bed to rest," Walburga stated.

Walburga stood, pulling Adeline with her. Adeline and Walburga walked out of the room, arms wrapped around each other and heads held high. Once in Adeline's room, Walburga pulled out Adeline's softest nightgown and spelled the nightgown onto Adeline, her dirty clothes disappearing to the wash. Walburga tucked Adeline into her bed, working her fingers through Adeline's hair as Adeline closed her eyes, feigning sleep.

"My daughter," Walburga whispered before blowing out Adeline's candle and exiting the room.

The moment Walburga left, Adeline opened her eyes.

"No one will hurt you," she whispered, anger still in her voice. "That's my job."

The picnic was cancelled and all of their school supplies were ordered via owl. Measurements for new school robes were sent in and uniforms were sent back in return. Adeline, Sirius, and Regulus sat in the library, the boys reading through their new books again as Adeline wrote to Remus. James was brewing the potion for him this month, meticulous notes written in the journal they now shared. Remus was still upset with her for not going to the safe house with Wobky and himself. Even after she had explained that she needed to be there when the Blacks arrived, he was still upset. Adeline understood the feeling, knowing she would have been angry had the roles been reversed.

The day before Adeline's third year came and Walburga signed her permission slip for Hogsmeade with the understanding that Adeline would not wonder off on her own and would call an elf the moment she got to the town to follow her in case of danger. Adeline had agreed immediately as Walburga sent the permission slip to the school with Regulus'. Orion recreated wards around Shafiq manor, making the manor as safe as Black Manor now was, his intricate charms and runes work wrapping around the entirety of the property. When he told Adeline what he had done, she had hugged him tightly, thanking him.

They left for the train station early in the morning, Orion apparating with Sirius and Regulus before Walburga apparated with Adeline. They appeared beside the men and headed into the station. Once Orion went through the barrier, Regulus, Adeline and Sirius followed in order, Walburga behind him. The three students found a compartment on the express and Walburga and Orion remained outside their window, eyes watching as more people showed up. Once the station was full, Walburga and Orion watched as the train left the station, worry etched across both of their features.

Adeline sighed and sank into Sirius as the train left the station, Remus, James, and Peter sitting across from them. Sirius had his arm wrapped around Adeline protectively, The compartment was locked and the curtain was closed, giving them as much privacy as possible as Adeline filled Regulus in on the break in at the Dark Lord's home while she had been there last.

Regulus had sat quietly, listening intently and breathing slowly. Adeline took his hand in hers, squeezing gently in comfort.

"Are you okay, Reggie?" Sirius asked carefully.

"People are trying to kill my sister," Reggie shook his head. "I'm not okay."

Reggie stood and left the compartment, slamming the door closed behind him. Adeline locked it and shut the curtain again. Remus moved to Reggie's abandoned seat beside Adeline and Peter moved to the floor, leaning back against Adeline's legs. James squeezed in between Sirius and the window, the five of them staying there for the remainder of the trip, taking comfort in one another.

When they arrived at the station, the five exited the train, walking to where the carriages were waiting. Adeline froze as she stared at the dark horses that were pulling the carriages. Sirius stopped with her, watching her in confusion.

"What is it?" Sirius asked, voice soft.

"What are those?" Adeline asked, pointing to the skeletal horses.

"What are what?" Sirius asked, not seeing anything.

"The creatures pulling the carriages," Adeline stated.

"The carriages pull themselves," Sirius shook his head.

"Thestrals," Remus spoke up, staring at the horses. "Only those who have seen death can see them. I've been able to see them since dad…"

Remus trailed off and Adeline took his hand. Sirius took Adeline's free hand and the three followed after Peter and James as they climbed into a carriage. They remained quiet as they approached the castle, Adeline nervous about heading to the Slytherin common room. Once they reached the castle and walked into the Great Hall, Regulus ran over to them, Severus behind him. Reggie nodded to Sirius, taking over and leading Adeline to the Slytherin table, Severus close behind as his eyes scanned the hall, watching for any danger.

Adeline was escorted to every class by Reggie, Evan, and Barty. The only time she got away from the three of them was when Sirius would steal her away so that she could brew in the classroom that Dumbledore had given her to use, Remus, James, and Peter all hanging around in the classroom. James and Peter had taken to studying the stairwell in their free time as planned. A month had passed in the school year and the two boys ran into the classroom with a schedule written out, Adeline smirking as she stared at the copy that James had written in their journal and copying it into hers and Remus' journal as well.

"When are we doing it?" Sirius asked, a bright smile on his face.

"We have to get the other houses involved," James stated.

"I have friends in Ravenclaw," Remus spoke up.

"Of course, you do," Sirius smirked.

"I have friends in Hufflepuff," Adeline stated, causing all four boys to look at her in surprise. "What? They're nice."

"Can Reggie get the Slytherins involved?" James asked.

"With Barty and Evan's help, yes," Adeline nodded.

"Are we about to have the whole school pull a prank on all of Hogwarts staff?" James asked.

"Hopefully," Peter smirked. "Then we can do the fort."

"Could we get all of the school in on that as well?" Sirius asked curiously.

"The Hufflepuffs would go for it," Adeline smiled. "Not sure about the Slytherins. They like their luxury."

"Fair," Sirius nodded. "We'll have to wait and see."

"So, when are we doing this?" Adeline repeated Sirius question from earlier with a smirk.

The first Hogsmeade weekend was approaching fast and Sirius was smirking. Adeline didn't trust it.

"What are you planning?" she questioned.

"I don't know what you mean," he smiled.

"You have that look like you're planning something elaborate," Adeline stated. "Spill it out."

"I don't think I will," Sirius continued smirking as he led her to the Great Hall for lunch.

Adeline rolled her eyes as she followed him to the Gryffindor table, taking her place between him and Remus as she had been every day at lunch since the year had begun.

"What's he planning?" Adeline asked Remus.

"Who?" Remus asked, trying to look innocent.

"Sirius," Adeline deadpanned.

"Never met him," Remus ducked his head as Adeline slapped the back of it.

An owl flew down, dropping a red envelope in front of Adeline. She groaned as Sirius began laughing. She opened the letter, ready to get it over with.

"Dearest Adeline," Sirius' voice sang from the letter. "Wise men say only fools rush in, but I can't help falling in love with you."

The letter floated back to the table and Adeline groaned as Sirius stood on the table.

"Shall I stay? Would it be a sin if I can't help falling in love with you?"

Sirius really needed to work on his Elvis impression. Suddenly, James jumped on top of the table as well, joining in as the background singer.

"Like a river flows surely to the sea. Darling, so it goes. Some things are meant to be."

"That's my cue," Remus muttered before standing on top of the table as well, Peter laughing as he joined.

"Take my hand. Take my whole life, too. For I can't help falling in love with you. Like a river flows surely to the sea. Darling, so it goes. Some things are meant to be."

Sirius kneeled in front of her.

"Take my hand," he offered his hand and Adeline rolled her eyes as she took it, joining him on the table. "Take my whole life, too."

Sirius began waltzing with her as James waltzed with Peter and Remus shook his head.

"For I can't help falling in love with you."

Sirius' voice dropped as he sang the last line.

"For I can't help falling in love with you."

He pulled a vanilla flower from his pocket, bowing low and offering the flower to her.

"Adeline, my darling. Would you accompany me on a date to Hogsmeade this weekend?"

"If you promise to never do this again, then yes," she smiled, arms crossed.

Sirius stood straight, looking offended.

"One would think you don't appreciate my romantic gestures," he stated.

"Not in front of the whole school," she raised a brow at him.

"Fair," he smiled. "Is that a yes?"

"Yes," Adeline smiled.

"She said yes!" James yelled and the Great Hall cheered as Sirius lifted Adeline and spun her around.

Adeline laughed as Sirius placed Adeline back on her feet. He gave her a small kiss before jumping off the table and helping her back down. The other boys climbed down as well, bowing as if the applause had been solely for them.

"Troublemakers," McGonagall smiled fondly as she shook her head at them. "Stay off the tables from now on."

"Yes, Minnie," Sirius smirked.

"Black," McGonagall glared.

"Apologies, Professor," Sirius nodded, attempting to look bashful.

Adeline sighed, her face in her hand to hide her embarrassment.

"Good luck with that one, Miss Shafiq," McGonagall stated as she passed the group.

"I'm going to need it," Adeline agreed, smiling fondly at Sirius' affronted look.

"I'm beginning to regret this decision," he said with a pout.

"You're stuck with me," Adeline shrugged before sitting back in her normal spot, the other boys sitting with her.

Sirius fell into his seat. He grabbed the flower from Adeline's hand and weaved it into her hair. Adeline gave him a gentle smile before going back to her lunch. As Saturday approached, the third years were all buzzing with excitement at their first trip to Hogsmeade. Adeline was just excited for her first real date with Sirius. She dressed in jeans and a cream sweater, brown boots on her feet as she left the common room, Reggie walking beside her as Evan and Barty walked behind them. They found the Gryffindors waiting in the entrance hall and Sirius' face lit up when he saw Adeline walking towards him.

"Ready?" he asked her softly.

"Yes," she smiled.

Sirius led her to the carriage, the others splitting off from them and leaving the two alone.

"Can I tell you a secret?" Sirius asked as they approached the village.

"I like secrets," Adeline smirked.

"I know you do," he smirked back.

"Go ahead," Adeline prompted him.

"I'm actually rather nervous about today," he told her.

"Why?" she asked.

"Because it's our first real date. What if I muck it up somehow?"

"Don't think of it like a first date," Adeline said after consideration. "We've known each other for years. We already know what we both like and dislike, which is what first dates are for anyways, so it won't truly feel like a first date. We're just Adie and Siri."

"Just Adie and Siri," Sirius nodded. "I think I can handle that."

"Good," Adeline smiled as the carriage came to a stop. "Tiffy?"

Tiffy appeared in the carriage then, eyes wide.

"Tiffy is ready, mistress," Tiffy nodded before becoming invisible.

Sirius held the carriage door open for Adeline, offering his hand to help her down. Adeline took it gratefully and stepped out of the carriage. He led her around the village, telling her what all of the shops were as they passed them. They stepped into a tea shop, bright pink and deep reds greeting them.

"What in Merlin's name?" Adeline asked as she looked around.

"This is a date spot here," Sirius flinched as he looked around as well.

"Come on," Adeline dragged Sirius back out of the shop before running towards the joke shop, Sirius running beside her.

They began collecting different items that they could use for the upcoming pranks that they had planned and left quickly once they paid. They went to the sweets shop next, Sirius grabbing sugar quills for Adeline as Adeline grabbed a few chocolate bars for Peter and Remus and sour gummies for Sirius and James. Sirius refused to let Adeline pay, snatching her money back when she had placed it on the counter and slipping in back into her bag with a pointed look. Once outside again, Adeline turned to Sirius.

"Where can we get the best butterbeer?" she asked curiously.

"This way," Sirius smiled, offering his arm.

Adeline took his arm and he led them to The Three Broomsticks. Sirius set Adeline at a booth and went to the bar, ordering butterbeers and lunch for the both of them before returning to her with their drinks. Adeline hummed as she sipped the beverage.

"So much better than pumpkin juice," she stated.

Sirius laughed before sipping his own drink from beside her. Their stew and bread came out a few minutes later, the steaming bowls causing Adeline's eyes to widen. Sirius simply watched as Adeline tried the stew, knowing soups of any kind made her happy. She leaned back after taking her first bite, eyes closed at the richness of the stew and Sirius smirked as she opened her eyes to look at him.

"This is amazing," she finally said before going for another bite.

"It is," Sirius agreed before finally starting on his own bowl.

Once they had finished eating, they walked slowly through the village, just looking around at everything. Adeline spotted the bookshop towards the end of the visit. Sirius just follow after her, smiling as he watched her wonder through the shelves. She found four different books that caught her attention that Sirius paid for without thought. She gave him a soft glare before sighing and allowing it.

Once they reached the castle again, the other third-years and higher arriving in waves with them, Sirius walked Adeline to the dungeons, kissing her gently before leaving her with Reggie.

"How was it?" Reggie asked as they entered the common room.

"He was nervous," Adeline smirked.

"Sirius was nervous?" Reggie smirked. "How? You're engaged."

"It was our first real date," Adeline shrugged. "I was a bit nervous as well. I calmed the both of us down though."

"Can we discuss what we're doing Monday afternoon now?" Evan spoke up.

"Have you talked to the other Slytherins?" Reggie asked excitedly as the four sat by the fire.

"They're all in," Evan smirked.

"So are the Hufflepuffs," Adeline smiled. "Remus got the Ravenclaws and James and Sirius got the Gryffindors. We're all set."

"I feel a little bad just walking out of Charms," Barty admitted.

"I think Flitwick will be rather proud honestly," Adeline smirked.

"All of the teachers are rather impressed that people aren't late to class anymore since we passed the stairs schedule around the school," Reggie pointed out. "They should know it's because someone has something planned."

"Just wait until the blanket fort sleepover," Adeline smirked before looking to Evan. "Have you been able to convince the Slytherins to stick around all night yet?"

"They've agreed if they can use their own mattresses to sleep in rather than the conjured ones that will be used tomorrow," Evan supplied.

"Honestly, I couldn't agree more," Adeline sighed. "Conjured mattresses don't sound comfortable in the least bit."

Evan hummed his agreement, giving Adeline a gentle smile. Monday morning came around and the whole school was buzzing with excitement. The teachers all seemed a bit on edge, as if able to sense the mood all of the students were in. In Charms, Adeline sat between Sirius and Reggie. They took diligent notes until multiple wands went off with alarms. The alarms were cancelled and every student stood, walking out of the room. Flitwick watched on in confusion before running after his class.

Adeline pulled Reggie out of the way as three Ravenclaws on a mattress flew pass them. They all let out a laugh before rushing forward, conjuring mattresses and sliding down the stairs. Adeline and Remus had worked together to find a spell that would cause the mattresses to turn on their own, driving like a muggle car without the need for a steering wheel or gas pedals. They ran up the stairs, dodging other students and taking secret passageways to get higher up.

Once they reached the highest point on the staircase, James, Remus, and Sirius conjured multiple mattresses. Evan and Barty took the first one, using the spell to drive themselves forward. Next up was Reggie and James, the two deciding to stand rather than sit as others had been doing.

"How long until one of them falls and breaks something?" Adeline asked Sirius with a smirk.

"I give Jamie two flights," Sirius smirked.

"I want in on this bet," Remus spoke up.

Once bets were places, Severus and Lily began their turn, Lily laughing widely as Severus held her much like how Peter had held Adeline his first time. Peter went with a Gryffindor fourth year followed by Frank Longbottom and a sweet girl named Alice.

"Ready?" Sirius asked Adeline as they finished helping the fourth year Slytherins and Gryffindors.

"Born ready," Adeline smirked.

They sat on the final mattress, Adeline whispering the spell and propelling them forward. Sirius held Adeline's waist tightly as they picked up speed. They both laughed loudly as they passed by other students, their mattress following after their other classmates and swinging pass mattresses that had just barely been knocked out of the way by the small shield that had been placed on the front of their mattress. Once they reached the last staircase, Adeline could see the Gryffindors and Slytherins laughing as they stood around each other, smiling widely at the fun they'd had.

Adeline and Sirius slid down the final flight, coming to a stop in front of James, Remus, and Peter.

"What is the meaning of this?" Dumbledore's voice boomed through the hall.

"Scatter!" James shouted and every student took off in different directions.

The conjured mattresses disappeared now that the students were on the run. Teachers and staff just watched in shock, not sure what to do as every student in the school took off. Adeline, Reggie, Barty, Evan, Sirius, Peter, James and Remus ran outside, other students ahead of and behind them. They ran until they reached the tree by the lake, all falling to the ground and out of breath from running and laughter.

"Do you think they'll be able to give us all detention?" Peter gasped out the question.

"Maybe in small batches," Adeline laughed out.

"Do it by year in the Great Hall," Remus nodded along, somehow the only one who seemed perfectly fine.

"As long as they don't figure out who planned it, we're good," Reggie nodded.

Adeline sat in a chair in Dumbledore's office beside Reggie and Sirius, Evan, Barty, Remus, James and Peter also sitting around them.

"So, I've heard from multiple students that you eight may know something about what happened last week?" Dumbledore asked, eyes twinkling.

"Did you?" Barty grumbled, causing Evan and Reggie to elbow him.

"Yes," Dumbledore nodded, eyes roaming over the group before stopping on Adeline. "Miss Shafiq, would you like to be the speaker for your group?"

"I would love to," Adeline sat up straighter, smile on her face.

Reggie and Sirius groaned.

"Who planned the event?" he asked.

"Is that what we're calling it?" Adeline questioned. "An event? Makes it seem like something that should happen annually or so."

"Miss Shafiq," Dumbledore raised a brow.

"Does it really matter who planned it?" she questioned. "Honestly, that was the most fun I've seen Gryffindors and Slytherins have with each other since I started school."

"It was a great show of interhouse unity," Dumbledore agreed. "The issue was that most of the Hogwarts students walked out of class, missing their schooling for the hour."

"Sir, I can tell you will certainty that people in this office did not plan the event," she stated.

It wasn't even a full lie. Reggie, Barty, and Evan had just asked around to see if people wanted to join. They hadn't been the only ones either. Other people had been asking around in each house to get everyone on board with the idea. The Gryffindors and Adeline had been the ones to plan the event though.

"Should I be asking about your choice of words?" Dumbledore asked with a raised brow.

"Probably, sir," Adeline gave him a small smirk.

Dumbledore sighed and looked away from her.

"As we do not have any concrete proof that any of you had been the culprits behind the event, you are free to go," he stated. "However, if something like this were to happen again, I would come straight to all of you for answers."

"We will happily answer any questions you have," Adeline nodded, not specifying if the answers the headmaster would receive would be honest or not.

Dumbledore sighed again before letting them leave. The group laughed as they walked towards the Great Hall for lunch. Once they entered the hall, all of the students erupted in applause. Sirius and James bowed as Adeline waved the cheers off.

"You're too kind!" she called out as she followed the Gryffindors to their table. "Please! It's too much!"

Lily rolled her eyes with a large smile as she moved to sit closer to the group, ending up beside James somehow.

"Did you get detentions?" she asked them as James stared at her in shock and awe.

"No solid proof that we caused the masses to skip their classes," Adeline shrugged.

"Brilliant," Lily laughed before going back to her book, remaining beside James.

Adeline stared at James with wide eyes and a smirk. He stared back, looking panicked. Adeline tilted her head towards Lily and he shook his head in response. Adeline gave him a hard look and he shook his head faster, jostling the table slightly.

"Yes," Adeline whispered to him.

"No," whispered back.

"Yes."

"No."

"Yes."

"So, Lily," James got the redheads attention.

"Yes?" she asked, looking up.

"I was- I- Um- I was wondering if maybe- if you- well if you don't already have plans," James was speaking too quickly and saying nothing so Adeline kicked him under the table. "Would you go to Hogsmeade with me?"

The question came out louder than he had meant for it to and multiple people turned their heads. He flinched slightly, though if it was at the eyes on him or for the kick Adeline had caught him with, she couldn't tell. A blush took over his face as Lily stared at him blankly.

"No, I don't think I will," she said before sliding back towards the other fourth year girls.

James looked to Adeline pointedly.

"Don't look at me like that. I did say she would tell you no," she reminded him.

"Then why were you so insistent still?" he huffed out.

"Because now she knows that you like her," Adeline told him. "You're on her radar."

"On her what?" he asked confused, causing Adeline and Remus to groan.

"It means she'll probably think about you in a way other than the guy who bullied her friend," Remus explained.

"Oh," James' eyebrows rose before he smiled a bit at the thought.

"Don't muck it up," Adeline smirked before leaning into Sirius' side.

"You could always sing her a song on the table," Sirius offered.

"No," McGonagall said firmly as she walked pass them, causing Adeline and Peter to laugh.

"Offer her some hot chocolate at the next "event" that we have planned," Remus whispered to him. "Girls like hot chocolate."

"She likes sugar quills," Adeline added. "We always share when studying together."

"And then she'll go to Hogsmeade with me?" James asked

"No," the other four coursed.

Adeline was hidden away in the library, stacks of books on her table as she wrote in her journal to Tom. He was copying over notes from a few different books for her, giving her pointers on how best to master the spells and charms. Barty and Evan sat a few tables over, keeping an eye on Adeline as they worked on their own assignments while Reggie was out the closed quidditch tryouts, the captain of the team paranoid that too many students being present would cause strategies to be leaked. Adeline sighed as she stretched her hand, having finished copying the notes over to her journal with Remus.

'These are all rather dangerous,' Remus stated.

'I was going to say dark, but dangerous works,' Adeline wrote back. 'We should learn the spells and charms either way though. If others are willing to use them on us, then we should be prepared. We need to be able to protect ourselves.'

'What we need is a safe place to practice the spells,' Remus countered. 'No point learning about something if we don't know how to preform it.'

'Fair. I'll see what I can come up with and get back to you?'

'Let me know if you want help.'

'I always need your assistance, Remy.'

Adeline was sure she could feel Remus blushing through the journal but closed it anyway as Reggie rushed towards her table, flopping down into the chair beside her as Barty and Evan joined them.

"How'd it go?" Adeline asked in a whisper.

"You're looking at the new Slytherin seeker," Reggie smirked.

Adeline kissed Reggie's cheek in congratulations.

"We should celebrate," Adeline smiled. "I can sneak into the kitchens and get us snacks and drinks."

"You aren't going alone," Reggie said, brows furrowed.

"I'll go with her," Evan spoke up immediately and Adeline squeezed Reggie's hand under the table, hoping he would escort her instead.

"That works," Reggie nodded instead. "Barty and I can meet you under the tree by the lake."

"Deal," Evan nodded before looking to Adeline. "Ready to go?"

"Let me pack up my things and I will be," she said with a tight smile, knowing Sirius wasn't going to be happy.

Adeline packed quickly, wanting to hurry to join the others as quickly as possible. They left the library, Barty and Reggie separating from them in the hall. Adeline led Evan through a secret passage that brought them out by the portrait of the bowl of fruit. After opening the door, Adeline sighed at the sight of all of the elves.

"Disgusting creatures really," Evan mumbled and Adeline rolled her eyes in distaste for his comment.

"Is it still warm outside?" she asked instead, walking over to a plate of cookies.

"A bit," Evan told her.

"Pumpkin juice it is," she nodded, grabbing a handkerchief and filling it with cookies as Evan grabbed a flagon on pumpkin juice.

After packing a few minced meat pies away as well, Evan and Adeline headed off. Evan walking slowly beside Adeline and forcing her to take her time.

"I feel like we haven't spoken in ages," he said. "You've been rather busy."

"I have," she nodded. "I'm studying more than just my school subjects and I have responsibilities as the head of house."

"I'm willing to help with anything you need," Evan offered. "You know that, right?"

"Of course," Adeline gave him a forced smile. "If I need your assistance, I'll be sure to let you know."

"Be sure that you do," Evan smiled before looking towards the tree and frowning. "What are they doing there?"

Adeline looked up, almost sighing in relief when she saw Sirius and James speaking with Reggie and Barty. She skipped forward, smiling as she caught Sirius' eye, Evan still walking slowly behind her. Sirius gave her a look and Adeline gave him one in return, trying to convey to him that she was forced to go with Evan. He nodded his head in understanding before wrapping him arm around her.

"Reggie just told us the good news," Sirius told her.

"Did he?" Adeline smirked before pulling a pie from her pocket and passing one to Reggie and another to Barty.

"Seeker," James smiled. "Brilliant."

Reggie blushed slightly at the praise and Adeline raised a brow before schooling her features as Evan joined them. Adeline pulled the cookies from her other pocket and offered one to Sirius.

"My favorite," he smiled as he took one.

"I know," she smiled before taking a bite of one herself and passing the rest around.

Evan offered her the flagon and Adeline smiled in thanks, taking a sip and leaning into Sirius. She passed the flagon over to Reggie before turning to Sirius. They had a silent conversation before he nodded and turned to the others.

"I'm sorry to ruin the party, but may I steal Adeline away? We have to speak about some house duties," he explained.

"Sure," Reggie nodded.

"I'll stay here," James said, sitting on the ground beside Reggie.

"Really?" Reggie asked, a small blush creeping up his neck.

"Sure," James nodded. "We shared a mattress just last week. The least I can do is celebrate with you."

Adeline and Sirius bit their lips as they tried to hold in the laughter that threatened to spill over as Reggie choked on a bit of pumpkin juice. James patted his back, helping Reggie get the juice down.

"Sorry, Reg. Didn't mean to make you choke," James said, concern in his voice.

"We're leaving," Adeline said loudly, dragging Sirius away as he covered his face to hide his laughter. "Come along, love."

Sirius kept his arm around Adeline's waist as they walked away from the group. Once they reached the castle, Adeline relaxed slightly.

"Thank you," she told him.

"How did you end up with him?" Sirius asked in confusion.

"Reggie is terrible at picking up hints," Adeline rolled her eyes.

"Yeah, he is," Sirius sighed. "What's going on with him and James?"

"I think Reggie has a bit of a crush on your best friend," Adeline smiled. "James is oblivious, of course."

"He's typically so observant," Sirius shook his head. "He figured out what Remus was before the rest of us."

"How long did it take for you to figure it out?" she asked curiously.

"We were halfway through first year when James figured it out. I caught on a bit after that and then Remus just told Peter after he figured out that we knew. How long did it take you?" Sirius asked.

"Well, once we became friends, it took three weeks," she shrugged. "He missed class on a full moon and had new scars when I visited him in the hospital wing. I checked the moon cycle and started on the wolfsbane potion that day."

"Too smart for your own good," Sirius chuckled.

"That I am," Adeline smiled as they walked into the room that Adeline brewed in. "What are we actually doing?"

"I just wanted time alone with you," Sirius admitted as he pulled her close.

"Did you now?" Adeline smiled back, arms around his waist.

Sirius hummed before leaning down. The two snogged for a bit before sitting on the floor, hands intertwined as they spoke softly about everything and nothing. As the sun began to set, Sirius helped Adeline to her feet and the two headed down to the Great Hall for dinner. He escorted her to the Slytherin table where Reggie waited, kissing her hand before walking away to join James, Remus and Peter.

The weather got colder and Adeline took to carrying Remus' stolen sweater around with her, wearing it in classes as it was warmer than her robes. Remus had seen the sweater and rolled his eyes, asking when she had stolen it. She had smiled widely in return before going back to her charms work instead of answering, causing him to shake his head fondly. Another Hogsmeade weekend came and went and the night of the mega blanket fort was finally upon them.

Adeline had been sticking close to the Gryffindors all day, whispering with them and trying to look innocent whenever a professor would walk by them. The students were buzzing with energy once again and Dumbledore caught Adeline's eye during dinner. She simply smiled sweetly and sent him a wave. He had given her a small smile in return before turning to McGonagall, probably to warn her to watch for mattresses flying down the grand staircase again.

When dinner ended, all of the students separated, heading to their dorms immediately and setting off red flags with the school staff. Not an hour later, all of the students left their common rooms, mattresses, blankets, and pillows floating around them. Adeline and Reggie led the charge of Slytherins, showing the older students how to pin the blankets up easily. The Hufflepuffs ran over, eager to help as they were the friendliest house towards the Slytherins, most of the Slytherins having a designated Hufflepuff buddy.

Adeline turned when she heard the Ravenclaws and Gryffindors joining them in the Great Hall. The tables were pushed to the walls using magic and the mattresses were laid all across the floor. Blankets were used to create rooms and an older student taught Adeline a cooling charm that would stick around for more than an hour at a time. When the houses began separating into groups, Adeline used her wand to make her voice boom across the hall.

"Mingle with people outside of you house," she demanded. "If we were going to stick to our own houses, then we would have done this in the common rooms."

After cancelling the spell, students immediately began moving around, the Hufflepuffs separating faster than the other houses, Slytherins following close behind to not be shown up by the badgers. Adeline nodded, proud of herself before hearing a throat clear behind her. She turned, smiling as she face Dumbledore, McGonagall, Sprout, Slughorn, and Flitwick.

"Hello professors, headmaster," Adeline greeted, bowing her head slightly.

"I believe these ones belong to you," Dumbledore stepped aside, revealing Remus, Sirius, James, and Peter.

"There you are," she smiled. "I was wondering if you'd gotten lost."

Peter rushed forward, hugging Adeline with a bright smile.

"Miss Shafiq," Slughorn spoke up. "I'm not sure what you're intent is, but I have never seen such school unity in all my years."

"Agreed," McGonagall smiled. "I believe fifty points to Slytherin should be awarded."

"Students out of bed!" Filtch ran in screaming.

"Yes," Dumbledore nodded to Filtch with a soft smile. "They're allowed."

"Oh," Filtch frowned before shrugging and walking away.

"Professor Flitwick, I was actually hoping Remus and I could speak with you for a moment?" Adeline asked.

"Of course," Flitwick nodded.

"We were wondering if we could start a dueling club next year," she explained.

"Open to all houses?" he asked curiously.

"Of course," Adeline nodded.

"If you can get five students from each house to join, I will happily chaperone," he nodded.

"I'll assist," McGonagall offered. "Would the two of you be leading the club?"

"If Remus is willing," Adeline turned to her best friend.

"Of course," Remus smiled to her.

She smiled back before turning back to the teachers. They nodded and dismissed the group of five, sending them to join the chaos that was unfolding in the Great Hall. Adeline grabbed Peter's hand and pulled him with her as she ran towards the back of the hall where a few students had conjured a slide and extra mattresses.

The students all played games and used the slide for the next few hours, the elves dropping in to give out plates of snacks and hot chocolate. Dumbledore sent Adeline a wink when she saw the elves, telling her it had been his doing. She smiled before taking an offered cup, leaning against Sirius as she played chess against Barty, smiling as he got more frustrated with the more pieces she took.

"Checkmate," she smirked, setting down her empty mug.

"You have hot chocolate on your lip," Barty grunted.

"I'll get it," Sirius smirked, kissing Adeline.

She laughed at the suddenness of the action, knowing it was for show as Evan had been staring at Adeline most of the night.

"Time for bed," Sprout called out and the students all groaned before moving around.

Adeline laid on a mattress with Lily and Mary, Sirius, Remus and James on the mattress next to her as Peter moved a mattress closer to Adeline's head so he could lay alone but close to the others. Adeline reached out her hand and Peter took it gratefully, falling asleep with his hand in hers. Adeline smiled as she looked around the Great Hall, happy and wishing that school would always feel like this.