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Fandom: Harry Potter
Era: Marauders
Summary: The untold story before the rise of Voldemort- the lives of James, Sirius, Peter, and Remus since they entered Hogwarts. A collab project between me (G- writing Remus) and two friends (S- writing Peter and James, and L- writing Sirius).
Notes: First chapter- mostly an introduction of the characters and their backgrounds and stuff. We're trying to create a good Marauders fanfic- no OCs (other than what's necessary), OOCs, or not sticking to canon. R&R
Status: WIP
James- July 1971
HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore
(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)
Dear Mr. Potter,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.
Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.
Yours sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress
"We are very proud of you, son” my mom said as her eyes got watery.
"James, are you excited?” my cousin Lucy asked me with those big eyes that shone with admiration- obviously. All of my younger cousins followed me like a little gang. Actually, why wouldn't they?
To impress them, I answered in my most grown up and nonchalant voice, “No… not really, you know... I mean, thanks for the party. It's really cool, but I won't really be excited until I catch the snitch for Gryffindor”. Of course it was a big lie. I checked the mail myself every day for the past month, but no one needed to know that.
Father seemed really proud. “That's my son!!” he grinned.
But then my aunt Rachel maid a big mistake. “How do you know that you will be in Gryffindor?”- again, a big mistake. I was quite sure she wanted to take that question back, though, after she saw Father's face. I think she deserved it. She gave me the worst present ever- a book! Father had to reply to that insulting blurt, so he gave the usual speech that every Potter had heard at least three or four times in his or her life.
“Because Rachel, he is a Potter!” He emphasized 'Potter'. “He has the Gryffindor bravery flowing in his blood, and damn it, he is going to be the greatest Gryffindor there is!” uncle Brandon covered little cousin Lucy's ears. “You know why is that? Because he had the family's wonderful education and genes!!!” father looked very steamed, like he always does after the speech.
“Oh dear god, we forgot to show you the lovely garden we planted! Let’s all go outside and I'll show you” my mom quickly changed the subject before my dad could add anything else. It slid.
I didn't mind this little outbreak, because this was the best day ever! When I woke up, my mom made pancakes, which only happens on special occasions. Then, when I walked into the living room, I saw an enormous pile of presents in all colors, shapes and sizes. Later, the entire family came for lunch, like they do every Sunday. And right after dessert my parents showed me the letter. So I don't really mind stupid aunt Rachel and her blurts. I hope we will go tomorrow to buy the supplies needed for me to be the best Gryffindor at Hogwarts.
Remus- July 1971
HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore
(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)
Dear Mr. Lupin,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted to Hogwarts School of witchcraft and wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.
Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.
Yours sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress
After reading the letter for what might have been the fiftieth time, I still couldn't believe it was true. I was going to Hogwarts! Pushing the piece of parchment aside, I picked up the second letter that came in the envelope.
Dear Mr. Lupin,
We have prepared special accommodations for your transformations, and the ministry provided us with a list of terms for your time at the school. On your arrival at Hogwarts, please consult your head of house and the school nurse for details and information. I myself am willing to offer any aid you may need.
Sincerely,
Albus Percival Wolfric Brian Dumbledore
Headmaster
I only became aware of my parent's struggle with the ministry a few months ago, when the ministry official came to our house.
My parents didn't exactly tell me what was going on- they only said an important guest was coming, and that I should be on my best behavior. When he came, he didn't even talk to me, only looked around our house, had a brief talk with our parents, questioned our neighbors, and paid a visit to the small stone cottage in the forest, checking the quality of the shackles and the lock on the door.
After he left without finding anything he could use against us, my parents told me the truth. After their search for a cure failed, they decided they were going to get me into Hogwarts, despite the Ministry's misgivings.
At first, my parents themselves weren't sure it was a good idea. If I slipped, even once, the results could be disastrous. But after contacting headmaster Dumbledore, they decided it was worth the risk.
Once the ministry realized what was happening, they immediately tried to stop us. The Department for Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures searched for loopholes in the law that would forbid me from going, but found none. The inspector was their last attempt at finding some evidence of my supposed attacks on humans.
Finally, my uncle Leon, who works for the ministry himself, stepped in. After months of work, his and Dumbledore's efforts combined forced the ministry to allow me to attend Hogwarts.
Apparently I was the first werewolf in centuries who could.
The door to our small dining opened with a bang, shaking me out of my thoughts. I stood up and ran to greet the person who entered- a tall man with brown hair, holding a stack of boxes in his hands.
"Hey, Remus. How're you doing?" my uncle asked.
"I'm fine. Look!" I waved the letters at him, and he laughed.
Hearing the noise, my parents entered the room. My dad was tall and resembled my uncle, but there were streaks of grey running through his brown hair. My mom too showed signs of weariness- even though she was smiling, there were permanent lines of worry on her face.
We settled around the table to eat the food uncle Leon brought us- steaks from the restaurant across the street. We couldn't have a large party to celebrate the event, but my parents decided we were going to do SOMETHING, even if it was just the four of us.
"Remus," Leon said, "this isn't going to be easy. You know that, right?" I nodded. "You will do EXACTLY as the teachers tell you, and you will tell no one that you're a werewolf. Even if they're your friends, you can't know how they will react. And if one student knows, others will find out too."
"I know." We were living among muggles. I've been keeping this secret for years. I didn't see why keeping it in Hogwarts would be any different.
After cautioning me, Leon and my parents started sharing their own memories of Hogwarts. Werewolves and secrets were forgotten, for the moment.
After we finished eating and Leon was preparing to leave, he turned to me once more and said in a light tone, "Just remember- don't eat anyone at school and everything will be all right!"
My mother snorted disdainfully, but I smiled. I couldn't be angry with him, not now. "Bye, uncle Leon!" I told him, "And thanks!"
Peter- July 1971
HOGWARTS SCHOOL OF WITCHCRAFT AND WIZARDY
Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore
(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. Of Wizards)
Dear Mr. Pettigrew,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.
Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.
Yours sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress
That letter gave me quiet a shock, I must say. I did expect it, I guess, it’s just that it wasn't very good timing. I left it on the old shabby dining table for a moment and went into the restroom. I looked at the dirty cracked mirror that made me look like I'm in one of those old pictures. I saw an ugly purple bruise under my left eye. I also think my fat and pointy nose looked a tad more squishy than it did this morning. I washed the dried blood that once used to be in my nose from my upper lip. I hoped my mother wouldn't notice it when she returned home from work.
Last time Bradley bothered me, my mom missed a shift at work to go and talk with his parents. He was really quiet for a few days after that, but it seems the talk's effect passed today. I swear I didn't do a thing to him. I simply walked back from the grocery shop down the narrow street. I was thinking about Mrs. Piggly, who I once used to help with taking care of the chickens, but it took a lot of time that I could have used to take care of the house. So I stopped after a while.
Suddenly I heard a low voice form the other side of the street. “ Hey muggleface! Went shopping for little Mrs. Mommy? Oh wait isn't it Miss.?” I turned around and saw Bradley with two other guys who looked a bit like potatoes just as he does. His two followers giggled. “Yeah that's right,” he continued “your daddy saw you and ran away.” The three of them burst into laughter.
It was always just me and my mother taking care of each other. She goes to work, to provide for our living and I take care of the house. Cooking, cleaning, getting the mail and all of that. I don't think she likes this arrangement too much, but I don't mind it. I never felt anything missing.
I had to comment. So I turned over and started to walk toward them really hoping another one of my magic outbreaks will happen at that moment. I stood in front of him and opened my mouth. Then I realized I couldn't talk. I came to shout at him and nothing came out of my mouth. Bradley looked down at me. I guess my lack of height and Bradley’s big and threatening bone structure did not help my self-esteem. He had a mocking look on his face that made me feel very weak. Then one of his potato followers said “What a loser...let's go Bradley”. Then Bradley, with a big smirk, punched me right under my left eye. I looked at the small gang, walking up the street under the big oak trees.
I smeared a small amount of ointment on the purple bruise and hoped my mom wouldn't notice it again. Then I went to do the dishes.
Later that day I folded the laundry on the old ragged bed in my mother's bedroom. Suddenly I felt something cold on my neck. It was my mother kissing me. She seemed very enthusiastic about something.
“Come on honey, we are going OUT for dinner!!” she said in one breath. I wondered what's the special occasion. Anyway it seemed like she didn't notice the marks Bradley put on my chubby face.
After dinner was served at the restaurant my mom finally agreed to tell me the reason we are in 'Holy Goblins Bar & Restaurant'. Last time we ate there was when she got her new job.
“I'm so proud of you, love” she smiled.
I was very confused. “I am sorry Mother, but I have no idea what you are talking about”.
Her smile lessened a bit. “Honey, your letter from Hogwarts!” Crap. Totally forgot about that. “We have waited for this all summer! I was almost sure you won't get it” have we? I didn't know that. “But now I see a bright future in front of you. Finally you could get out of this shitty place. It will be the fresh start that you needed for so long!” I think she implied Bradley at that last sentence. And I thought she didn't notice.
Shit. I leaned backwards to the dusty couch and stared at a big picture near the entrance of some great wizard who once visited this bar. My feelings were caught between discomfort and awkwardness. I didn't really know how to tell her. “Look, Mother...” I really didn't want to talk about that. “I don't think I will em...go to em... Hogwarts...” Her smile, which was already a bit lessened, stretched into a tiny circle between her nose and chin. It was the opposite of a smile.
“What made you think that?” this was a question with no good answer.
“Well, you see Mother, I'd rather stay here you know... its a lovely town and I...like it...em you know...here” I explained in hesitation.
“That is the worst excuse you have ever told me! Now tell me the truth!” she seemed mad.
“Fine! I don't want to leave you here all alone! Tell me this Mother, who would clean the house? Who would cook and buy groceries? And how exactly are we going to pay for all of the supplies? Because I don't see you being able to take any more shifts!!” I noticed my voice went up a bit because a few heads were raised from the booths around to look at us.
“Honey, we will work all of that out” she said softly. I hated when she said that, because 'work it out' usually meant her, working triple shift and begging for advances from her boss. “I don't want my bad life to affect your future. It's my job to take care of you, not you of me,” she continued. “And I don't want you to keep running into this bully Bradley. Don't think I didn't notice the new purple mark under your eye.” Shit. I knew it. After this speech I understood that I didn't really have another option, so I agreed. Suddenly I feel a slight relief that I won't have to see Bradley much more.
Maybe Hogwarts really will be a good way to have a fresh start.
Sirius- August 1971
Family dinner was annoying as usual. We sat around the very long table on the first floor. The walls were decorated with awards and trophies won by my family.
When I came into the room, dinner was already on the table, and Regulus was sitting on a chair next to the table.
"Mom! Tell Sirius!"
"What did I do?"
"Sirius, stop it right now! If you don't I will lock you in Kreacher's den!" My mom shouted. Of course, it was just a threat. My mother wouldn't put a Black (even me) in a small, closed space with a thing like Kreacher.
"What did you do this time, Sirius?" My dad came into the room.
"I didn't do anything!" I said, wearing the most innocent look I could without laughing. I didn't do anything but put mice in his bed...
"Stop lying, Sirius! He put..."
"I put nothing in nowhere!" I interrupted him before the little snitch got me in HUGE trouble. There is nothing more dangerous than making my father angry.
"Stop it, Sirius! Merlin's beard, can you shut up for a moment and listen to me?" My father shouted, and we immediately fell quiet. "Even though I didn't think they would want you, you got the letter."
"What letter? What are you talking about?"
"The letter from Hogwarts. You are going there-- Hey! Hey! Sit down!"
I felt an explosion in my chest, and suddenly Regulus's hair became sickly green. Ok, maybe it went too far, but I definitely didn't control THAT...
"Sirius! Not again! Go to your room! My mother managed to say over Regulus's screams and my father's yelling.
"Wait a minute! When did it come? Are we late in sending back the reply?" I asked.
"What did you think? That we would wait for you to reply?" My father shouted.
"I just got... never mind... I want my letter."
"Sirius, go to your room RIGHT NOW." My father said, and by his voice I knew that I wouldn't get anything but a huge punishment. I looked at my mother, but she did nothing but nod slightly towards the second floor. I understood.
I ran quickly from the room to the hallway and almost bumped into Monster's head (Kreacher's grandfather. It was one of my family's habits- keeping our old house-elves' heads on the wall long after they died).
I went up the stairs two-by-two and entered the lounge, where my mother indicated. And there it was, lying on my mother's desk.
I opened the letter with enthusiasm and read:
HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore (Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)
Dear Mr. Black,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment. Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.
Yours sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress
It was just like my father- hiding the letter from me and then blaming me for being irresponsible. Whatever.
My father always said we are a Slytherin family, and he was probably right. I will be in Slytherin with all of my cousins. I will do the unimaginable, and bring honor to our family.
Era: Marauders
Summary: The untold story before the rise of Voldemort- the lives of James, Sirius, Peter, and Remus since they entered Hogwarts. A collab project between me (G- writing Remus) and two friends (S- writing Peter and James, and L- writing Sirius).
Notes: First chapter- mostly an introduction of the characters and their backgrounds and stuff. We're trying to create a good Marauders fanfic- no OCs (other than what's necessary), OOCs, or not sticking to canon. R&R
Status: WIP
James- July 1971
HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore
(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)
Dear Mr. Potter,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.
Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.
Yours sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress
"We are very proud of you, son” my mom said as her eyes got watery.
"James, are you excited?” my cousin Lucy asked me with those big eyes that shone with admiration- obviously. All of my younger cousins followed me like a little gang. Actually, why wouldn't they?
To impress them, I answered in my most grown up and nonchalant voice, “No… not really, you know... I mean, thanks for the party. It's really cool, but I won't really be excited until I catch the snitch for Gryffindor”. Of course it was a big lie. I checked the mail myself every day for the past month, but no one needed to know that.
Father seemed really proud. “That's my son!!” he grinned.
But then my aunt Rachel maid a big mistake. “How do you know that you will be in Gryffindor?”- again, a big mistake. I was quite sure she wanted to take that question back, though, after she saw Father's face. I think she deserved it. She gave me the worst present ever- a book! Father had to reply to that insulting blurt, so he gave the usual speech that every Potter had heard at least three or four times in his or her life.
“Because Rachel, he is a Potter!” He emphasized 'Potter'. “He has the Gryffindor bravery flowing in his blood, and damn it, he is going to be the greatest Gryffindor there is!” uncle Brandon covered little cousin Lucy's ears. “You know why is that? Because he had the family's wonderful education and genes!!!” father looked very steamed, like he always does after the speech.
“Oh dear god, we forgot to show you the lovely garden we planted! Let’s all go outside and I'll show you” my mom quickly changed the subject before my dad could add anything else. It slid.
I didn't mind this little outbreak, because this was the best day ever! When I woke up, my mom made pancakes, which only happens on special occasions. Then, when I walked into the living room, I saw an enormous pile of presents in all colors, shapes and sizes. Later, the entire family came for lunch, like they do every Sunday. And right after dessert my parents showed me the letter. So I don't really mind stupid aunt Rachel and her blurts. I hope we will go tomorrow to buy the supplies needed for me to be the best Gryffindor at Hogwarts.
Remus- July 1971
HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore
(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)
Dear Mr. Lupin,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted to Hogwarts School of witchcraft and wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.
Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.
Yours sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress
After reading the letter for what might have been the fiftieth time, I still couldn't believe it was true. I was going to Hogwarts! Pushing the piece of parchment aside, I picked up the second letter that came in the envelope.
Dear Mr. Lupin,
We have prepared special accommodations for your transformations, and the ministry provided us with a list of terms for your time at the school. On your arrival at Hogwarts, please consult your head of house and the school nurse for details and information. I myself am willing to offer any aid you may need.
Sincerely,
Albus Percival Wolfric Brian Dumbledore
Headmaster
I only became aware of my parent's struggle with the ministry a few months ago, when the ministry official came to our house.
My parents didn't exactly tell me what was going on- they only said an important guest was coming, and that I should be on my best behavior. When he came, he didn't even talk to me, only looked around our house, had a brief talk with our parents, questioned our neighbors, and paid a visit to the small stone cottage in the forest, checking the quality of the shackles and the lock on the door.
After he left without finding anything he could use against us, my parents told me the truth. After their search for a cure failed, they decided they were going to get me into Hogwarts, despite the Ministry's misgivings.
At first, my parents themselves weren't sure it was a good idea. If I slipped, even once, the results could be disastrous. But after contacting headmaster Dumbledore, they decided it was worth the risk.
Once the ministry realized what was happening, they immediately tried to stop us. The Department for Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures searched for loopholes in the law that would forbid me from going, but found none. The inspector was their last attempt at finding some evidence of my supposed attacks on humans.
Finally, my uncle Leon, who works for the ministry himself, stepped in. After months of work, his and Dumbledore's efforts combined forced the ministry to allow me to attend Hogwarts.
Apparently I was the first werewolf in centuries who could.
The door to our small dining opened with a bang, shaking me out of my thoughts. I stood up and ran to greet the person who entered- a tall man with brown hair, holding a stack of boxes in his hands.
"Hey, Remus. How're you doing?" my uncle asked.
"I'm fine. Look!" I waved the letters at him, and he laughed.
Hearing the noise, my parents entered the room. My dad was tall and resembled my uncle, but there were streaks of grey running through his brown hair. My mom too showed signs of weariness- even though she was smiling, there were permanent lines of worry on her face.
We settled around the table to eat the food uncle Leon brought us- steaks from the restaurant across the street. We couldn't have a large party to celebrate the event, but my parents decided we were going to do SOMETHING, even if it was just the four of us.
"Remus," Leon said, "this isn't going to be easy. You know that, right?" I nodded. "You will do EXACTLY as the teachers tell you, and you will tell no one that you're a werewolf. Even if they're your friends, you can't know how they will react. And if one student knows, others will find out too."
"I know." We were living among muggles. I've been keeping this secret for years. I didn't see why keeping it in Hogwarts would be any different.
After cautioning me, Leon and my parents started sharing their own memories of Hogwarts. Werewolves and secrets were forgotten, for the moment.
After we finished eating and Leon was preparing to leave, he turned to me once more and said in a light tone, "Just remember- don't eat anyone at school and everything will be all right!"
My mother snorted disdainfully, but I smiled. I couldn't be angry with him, not now. "Bye, uncle Leon!" I told him, "And thanks!"
Peter- July 1971
HOGWARTS SCHOOL OF WITCHCRAFT AND WIZARDY
Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore
(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. Of Wizards)
Dear Mr. Pettigrew,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.
Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.
Yours sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress
That letter gave me quiet a shock, I must say. I did expect it, I guess, it’s just that it wasn't very good timing. I left it on the old shabby dining table for a moment and went into the restroom. I looked at the dirty cracked mirror that made me look like I'm in one of those old pictures. I saw an ugly purple bruise under my left eye. I also think my fat and pointy nose looked a tad more squishy than it did this morning. I washed the dried blood that once used to be in my nose from my upper lip. I hoped my mother wouldn't notice it when she returned home from work.
Last time Bradley bothered me, my mom missed a shift at work to go and talk with his parents. He was really quiet for a few days after that, but it seems the talk's effect passed today. I swear I didn't do a thing to him. I simply walked back from the grocery shop down the narrow street. I was thinking about Mrs. Piggly, who I once used to help with taking care of the chickens, but it took a lot of time that I could have used to take care of the house. So I stopped after a while.
Suddenly I heard a low voice form the other side of the street. “ Hey muggleface! Went shopping for little Mrs. Mommy? Oh wait isn't it Miss.?” I turned around and saw Bradley with two other guys who looked a bit like potatoes just as he does. His two followers giggled. “Yeah that's right,” he continued “your daddy saw you and ran away.” The three of them burst into laughter.
It was always just me and my mother taking care of each other. She goes to work, to provide for our living and I take care of the house. Cooking, cleaning, getting the mail and all of that. I don't think she likes this arrangement too much, but I don't mind it. I never felt anything missing.
I had to comment. So I turned over and started to walk toward them really hoping another one of my magic outbreaks will happen at that moment. I stood in front of him and opened my mouth. Then I realized I couldn't talk. I came to shout at him and nothing came out of my mouth. Bradley looked down at me. I guess my lack of height and Bradley’s big and threatening bone structure did not help my self-esteem. He had a mocking look on his face that made me feel very weak. Then one of his potato followers said “What a loser...let's go Bradley”. Then Bradley, with a big smirk, punched me right under my left eye. I looked at the small gang, walking up the street under the big oak trees.
I smeared a small amount of ointment on the purple bruise and hoped my mom wouldn't notice it again. Then I went to do the dishes.
Later that day I folded the laundry on the old ragged bed in my mother's bedroom. Suddenly I felt something cold on my neck. It was my mother kissing me. She seemed very enthusiastic about something.
“Come on honey, we are going OUT for dinner!!” she said in one breath. I wondered what's the special occasion. Anyway it seemed like she didn't notice the marks Bradley put on my chubby face.
After dinner was served at the restaurant my mom finally agreed to tell me the reason we are in 'Holy Goblins Bar & Restaurant'. Last time we ate there was when she got her new job.
“I'm so proud of you, love” she smiled.
I was very confused. “I am sorry Mother, but I have no idea what you are talking about”.
Her smile lessened a bit. “Honey, your letter from Hogwarts!” Crap. Totally forgot about that. “We have waited for this all summer! I was almost sure you won't get it” have we? I didn't know that. “But now I see a bright future in front of you. Finally you could get out of this shitty place. It will be the fresh start that you needed for so long!” I think she implied Bradley at that last sentence. And I thought she didn't notice.
Shit. I leaned backwards to the dusty couch and stared at a big picture near the entrance of some great wizard who once visited this bar. My feelings were caught between discomfort and awkwardness. I didn't really know how to tell her. “Look, Mother...” I really didn't want to talk about that. “I don't think I will em...go to em... Hogwarts...” Her smile, which was already a bit lessened, stretched into a tiny circle between her nose and chin. It was the opposite of a smile.
“What made you think that?” this was a question with no good answer.
“Well, you see Mother, I'd rather stay here you know... its a lovely town and I...like it...em you know...here” I explained in hesitation.
“That is the worst excuse you have ever told me! Now tell me the truth!” she seemed mad.
“Fine! I don't want to leave you here all alone! Tell me this Mother, who would clean the house? Who would cook and buy groceries? And how exactly are we going to pay for all of the supplies? Because I don't see you being able to take any more shifts!!” I noticed my voice went up a bit because a few heads were raised from the booths around to look at us.
“Honey, we will work all of that out” she said softly. I hated when she said that, because 'work it out' usually meant her, working triple shift and begging for advances from her boss. “I don't want my bad life to affect your future. It's my job to take care of you, not you of me,” she continued. “And I don't want you to keep running into this bully Bradley. Don't think I didn't notice the new purple mark under your eye.” Shit. I knew it. After this speech I understood that I didn't really have another option, so I agreed. Suddenly I feel a slight relief that I won't have to see Bradley much more.
Maybe Hogwarts really will be a good way to have a fresh start.
Sirius- August 1971
Family dinner was annoying as usual. We sat around the very long table on the first floor. The walls were decorated with awards and trophies won by my family.
When I came into the room, dinner was already on the table, and Regulus was sitting on a chair next to the table.
"Mom! Tell Sirius!"
"What did I do?"
"Sirius, stop it right now! If you don't I will lock you in Kreacher's den!" My mom shouted. Of course, it was just a threat. My mother wouldn't put a Black (even me) in a small, closed space with a thing like Kreacher.
"What did you do this time, Sirius?" My dad came into the room.
"I didn't do anything!" I said, wearing the most innocent look I could without laughing. I didn't do anything but put mice in his bed...
"Stop lying, Sirius! He put..."
"I put nothing in nowhere!" I interrupted him before the little snitch got me in HUGE trouble. There is nothing more dangerous than making my father angry.
"Stop it, Sirius! Merlin's beard, can you shut up for a moment and listen to me?" My father shouted, and we immediately fell quiet. "Even though I didn't think they would want you, you got the letter."
"What letter? What are you talking about?"
"The letter from Hogwarts. You are going there-- Hey! Hey! Sit down!"
I felt an explosion in my chest, and suddenly Regulus's hair became sickly green. Ok, maybe it went too far, but I definitely didn't control THAT...
"Sirius! Not again! Go to your room! My mother managed to say over Regulus's screams and my father's yelling.
"Wait a minute! When did it come? Are we late in sending back the reply?" I asked.
"What did you think? That we would wait for you to reply?" My father shouted.
"I just got... never mind... I want my letter."
"Sirius, go to your room RIGHT NOW." My father said, and by his voice I knew that I wouldn't get anything but a huge punishment. I looked at my mother, but she did nothing but nod slightly towards the second floor. I understood.
I ran quickly from the room to the hallway and almost bumped into Monster's head (Kreacher's grandfather. It was one of my family's habits- keeping our old house-elves' heads on the wall long after they died).
I went up the stairs two-by-two and entered the lounge, where my mother indicated. And there it was, lying on my mother's desk.
I opened the letter with enthusiasm and read:
HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore (Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)
Dear Mr. Black,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment. Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.
Yours sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress
It was just like my father- hiding the letter from me and then blaming me for being irresponsible. Whatever.
My father always said we are a Slytherin family, and he was probably right. I will be in Slytherin with all of my cousins. I will do the unimaginable, and bring honor to our family.
