The arrival of June sent the fifth and seventh year students into a study frenzy. OWLs and NEWTs were right around the corner. For some reason the end of the year exams seemed so much closer now. Common Rooms were now fully devoted to studying. Even Fred and George had given up testing their products to concentrate on their upcoming tests. That didn’t stop members of the D.A. from still using the Room of Requirement though. Many had grown accustomed to being able to have ‘everything they needed’ at their fingertips.

As expected, no progress had been made in figuring out who had knocked Harry and Cho off their brooms during the Quidditch match but that didn’t stop Sirius and Remus from entering full research mode to find out what had exactly happened. Well, actually Remus spent most of the time researching then relaying what he found to Sirius since the Defense teacher had classes to worry about in addition to study sessions with Harry every night. Sirius was helping Harry with History of Magic, Transfiguration and Charms while Remus covered Herbology, Astronomy, Potions, and Care of Magical Creatures. Divination was a lost cause so they didn’t even bother with that subject.

Classes were now completely devoted to reviewing material that would be covered on the exams. Harry would write down everything mentioned in class before taking it to Sirius and Remus who would help him sort out his messy notes. He wasn’t cheating. Harry refused to cheat. He wanted to do well on his exams on his own. Rearranging the notes helped Harry remember the material easier since they were now grouped according to what the material regarded. If Harry had a question on something, he asked but he never asked if it was on the actual test or not. He respected his guardians too much to even consider asking that.

“They wouldn’t be able to tell anyway since the teachers have nothing to do with the OWL exams,” Lily said.

“Good thing too, this way Harry actually has a chance of passing Potions,” James growled. “And don’t defend him Lily! You yourself have pointed out what a lousy teacher he is.”

“One thing is to point that out when the book is talking about that, another completely different is to use every opportunity to point that out,” Lily huffed.

“In other words,” Remus whispered to Sirius. “She can but we can’t.”

Sirius nodded seriously and when Lily narrowed her eyes at him he threw her a cheeky smile.

Occlumency was put on hold for the time being although Professor Snape instructed Harry to continue practicing every night. “No doubt the intensity of the OWLs will leave someone like you mentally exhausted, Potter,” Snape had said. “That is exactly the opportunity the Dark Lord would take advantage of. Merlin forbid our precious celebrity miss his exams because he was too daft to protect himself.”

James pointed at the book frantically but Lily just ignored him stoically. None of the boys noticed how she had been shredding a napkin in her hand and how her green eyes promised some very much deserved retribution to one Severus Snape for insulting her baby! But there was no need for James to know that, she thought.

It was during the final Transfiguration class before the exams that the students were handed their timetables with details of the procedure for the OWL exams. Tests would be spread over two weeks. Theory would be covered in the morning while practical was in the afternoon except for practical Astronomy which would be covered at night. Precautionary measures were taken to prevent cheating. Examinations were covered with anti-cheating charms, Auto-Answer Quills, Remembralls, Detachable Cribbing Cuffs and Self-Correcting Ink were banned from the examination hall. Results would be sent by owl in July leaving everyone in suspense for weeks.

Charms Theory ended up being scheduled first thing Monday morning. The weekend before the tests everyone was frantically reviewing five years worth of information. The Gryffindors had learned early to avoid Hermione at all costs since she was determined to answer everything word by word as it appeared in the book. Harry had discovered quickly that Occlumency actually had some benefits. It was easier for him retain information than it had been in the past along with keeping information straight. It almost made those grueling hours with Professor Snape worth it. Almost.

Monday morning arrived too soon for a lot of fifth years. After an agonizingly slow breakfast, they had to wait outside the Great hall until half past nine. The four long tables had been removed and replaced with many tables that were facing the staff-table at the end of the Hall where Professor McGonagall was waiting. Everyone took a seat and slowly silenced. “You may begin,” Professor McGonagall announced as she turned over an enormous hour-glass on the desk next to her that also had spare quills, ink bottles and rolls of parchment.

“You know, considering we just went through that torture, there was no need to describe it in so many details and give us flashbacks,” Sirius said a looking sick.

Lily looked at him and then whispered to James, “Did he do badly?”

“No,” James huffed. “He was the one that studied the least and the git almost got the best marks. Moony barely beat him and let’s face it, Moony sleeps with books attached to him.”

“Excuse me, you do know I can hear you?” Remus said annoyed.

“That was a compliment Moony,” James whined.

Harry turned over his paper as he inhaled deeply, forcing himself to remain calm. Getting worked up would only cause him to make stupid mistakes. He read the first question:  a) Give the incan­tation and b) describe the wand movement required to make objects fly. He grinned as started to write.

Two hours later the Great Hall had been reverted back to an eating area for lunch. Hermione was reviewing the exam paper checking and rechecking how many errors she had made. After listening to her for almost twenty minutes, Harry pulled out his wand and cast a silencing charm. Hermione glared at Harry while everyone around them cheered. It appeared that he wasn’t the only person she was annoying.

“Why didn’t we think of that?” Sirius cried and glared at Remus.

“Oh, so now I’m evil for wanting to make sure you know everything and do well! Humph, see if I help you again!”

“Moony, the threat loses power if you constantly make it and never follow though,” James said, Remus glared and Lily chuckled.

Once lunch was over the fifth years once again waited outside the Great Hall for their practical exam. Students were called in alphabetical order which made Ron groan in annoyance. Waiting students could be heard muttering incantations and practicing wand movements. Needing to block out all of the noise, Harry knelt down and sat on his heels as he focused completely on his breathing and calming techniques, closing his eyes to prevent any distractions whatsoever. He had done everything he could to prepare. All he could do now was pray that it had been enough.

Before Harry knew it a hand rested on his shoulder snapping him out of his calm. Opening his eyes, Harry looked up to see Ron looking at him in concern. “Flitwick’s calling your name, Harry,” he said softly. “You all right?”

Harry nodded as he stood up and followed the Patil twins into the Great Hall. With a flick on the wrist he had his want in hand. He fought to keep his breathing steady as he reached Professor Flitwick.

“Professor Tofty is free, Harry,” Flitwick squeaked as he pointed at what appeared to be the oldest and baldest examiner sitting behind a small table in the far corner.

Harry had to suppress a groan at seeing that Draco Malfoy was already being tested nearby by a tiny, stooped witch with a face so lined it almost looked like it was covered with cobwebs. He approached the table, instantly burying his nerves that tightened his stomach with every step. It was one thing to believe you had prepared yourself as much as you could but it was completely different to prove it. Calm down! Remember what you’ve been taught! Only with a level head can you avoid making stupid mistakes.

The elder Professor glanced up at Harry before returning his gaze to his pince-nez for a brief moment almost like he was double checking his information. “Potter, correct?” Professor Tofty asked. “The famous Potter?”

Harry suppressed an annoyed groan. “I’m the only Potter there is, sir,” he said politely.

Professor Tofty let out a laugh. “You sure are,” he said. “Now, could you please take this egg cup and make it do some cartwheels for me?”

“I got Tofty too!” James cried delighted. “Apparently he hasn’t got much imagination! That’s exactly what he had me do!”

“Maybe that’s why he asked Harry,” Lily said.

“I highly doubt that Professor Tofty would remember what he had one student do on their OWLs just because after years after that exam his son became famous. They probably have standardized tests and by chance Harry was asked to do the same as James. Which depending on the number of tests they devised is actually quite easy to happen,” Remus said wisely. “Especially since I was asked to do the same by someone else, and I know Pe- I mean, well, er- him was too,” Remus finished lamely and the other three nodded seriously. It was hard to stop talking about someone that had been such a huge part of their life, which made the betrayal hurt even more because they couldn’t just turn off the part of them that had cared for Peter.

Afterwards, Harry had to admit he had done his best. He had even managed to impress his examiner when he asked for clarification for types of Protection Charms and Shielding Charms. That prompted a discussion between Harry and the examiner about Harry’s knowledge of material that was considered NEWT level. Harry was completely truthful, admitting that he felt he needed to be able to defend himself with the current state of things. Professor Tofty was continuously taking notes while they talked, prodding Harry for more and more information. By the time Harry was dismissed, he noticed that the final students were taking their exams. Oops. Harry couldn’t believe he had lost track of time that badly during an exam.

Everyone had spent the night similar to the night before the Charms exam, cramming as much information as humanly possible in their brains. The following day was the Transfiguration exams. The written exam had been difficult but in all honesty it could have been worse. Harry was pretty sure he remembered everything but you never really know. The practical exam had been tiring but like the written, Harry was fairly sure he didn’t make any significant mistakes.

Wednesday brought the Herbology exam which could be considered easy when compared to the Transfiguration exam. Thursday brought the exam that many were almost excited about: Defense Against the Dark Arts. Harry had no problems with the written and was surprised to find himself paired with Professor Tofty again for the practical. It seemed that Harry’s reputation had passed to the examiners because like Charms, he was questioned extensively on topics that Harry knew weren’t on the OWLs.

“Well, that should be all, Potter,” Professor Tofty said with a smile then leaned forward a little bit. “Unless…I heard that you have a rather unique Patronus. How about for a bonus point?”

Harry shrugged as he raised his wand and instantly pictured spending the summer with Sirius, Remus and Tonks at Black Manor. “Expecto patronum!” he shouted. Everyone instantly stopped what they were doing to see a silver stag jump out of the end of Harry’s wand followed by a silver wolf and a large silver dog. Professor Tofty stared in disbelief at the three figures as the Midnight and the Moony sat down at Harry’s side while Prongs remained in front of Harry. “Er—you’ll have to excuse them. They are rather protective.”

“N…no problem,” Professor Tofty stuttered still unable to take his eyes off of the Patronuses.

Harry bit back a laugh at his examiner’s face. Well, he asked to see them. “Prongs, Moony, Midnight, why don’t you three go have some fun?” he offered then watched as they ran out of the Great Hall with Prongs leading the way causing several people to cry out in surprise. Harry then looked back at Professor Tofty who had finally recovered from his shock. “Anything else, sir?”

“Ah, good to know we still make a good impression on the examiners,” Sirius said fondly.

“Saying that you misunderstood the examiner when he asked you to turn the egg green and turn Snape’s hair green instead Sirius isn’t a good impression!” Remus scolded.

Sirius smiled wistfully, “Snape shouldn’t have been that angry, after all, he was showing his Slytherin pride.”

Professor Tofty smiled, still slightly shocked as he started to write down notes. “Not at all, Potter,” he said. “You may go.”

Friday brought a well needed day off for Harry and Ron while Hermione had her Ancient Runes exam. They relaxed for the morning even managing to play a game of wizard chess then, with Harry’s urging, slowly started reviewing for the Potions exams that would be held on Monday. They were just starting on third year material when Hermione entered the Gryffindor Tower looking completely outraged.

“How were the Runes?” Ron asked tentatively.

“I can’t believe I was so stupid!” Hermione cried in frustration. “I mistranslated ehwaz. It means partnership, not defence, I mixed it up with eihwaz.”

“It’s only one mistake,” Ron offered.

“Oh, shut up!” Hermione said angrily. “One mistake could make the difference between passing and failing!”

“Does that remind you of someone Prongs?” Sirius said ruffling Remus’ hair fondly.

“Sure does,” James grinned and looked at Lily.

Remus and Lily tried to ignore them the best they could.

“That’s true,” Harry offered calmly, “but getting all worked up about it isn’t going to change anything now. Whatever grade you receive, you’ll receive. I’m sure you did fine, Hermione. Focus on what you did correctly, not what you did wrong. Concentrating on the negative will only make you more frustrated and we have another week of exams to go. If you want to join us, we’re currently covering Potions. If you need some time to cool down, that’s okay too.” Harry then returned to his notes, nudging Ron to do the same.

Hermione let out a huff as she collapsed in a chair next to Harry. She didn’t contribute much to the study session although it was obvious that she was listening to their quiet quizzing of various potions. When Ron grew frustrated of that they simply read through notes and text books. The intense studying continued throughout the weekend for all of the fifth years. Everyone was nervous about the Potions exam probably more so than any other because Professor Snape didn’t really explain anything let alone in the detail that would most likely be on the exam.

“Does that constitute talking about the subject? Can we comment now?” Sirius asked.

“Okay,” Lily conceded.

“Snape is a git!” Sirius cried.

“Greasy haired bastard,” James added.

“That’s not commenting on his teaching abilities!” Lily said exasperated.

“Well,” Remus said slowly. “Indirectly, it is.”

When the exam finally arrived, many students were so worried that they couldn’t even think straight. The main problem was that so many professions required a NEWT in Potions (especially the three that Professor McGonagall had proposed to Harry). The written portion had been difficult although Harry had to hide a grin when he saw a question regarding the Polyjuice Potion’s effects. He was fairly sure he answered that question correctly. The practical exam actually hadn’t been that bad. Without Professor Snape present the entire atmosphere seemed to change dramatically. Everyone was much more relaxed, particularly Neville.

When the exam finished, everyone filled a flask that already had their name on it with their sample and corked it. All Harry could do now was hope that it had been enough and if it hadn’t, he’d figure out something then. Focus on what you can control. Harry had been surprised to how much all of his mental training had been helping through his exams but he was grateful for it.

“Only four exams left,” Parvati said tiredly as they walked back to the Gryffindor Tower.

“Only!?!” Hermione snapped. “I still have Arithmancy and it’s the toughest subject there is!”

Harry quickly intervened. “Parvati didn’t mean anything by it, Hermione, but that’s still no reason to bite her head off,” he said as calmly as he could. “We’re all stressed here but do you see any of us taking it out on those around us?” Hermione glared angrily at Harry as she opened her mouth to speak. “No, Hermione,” Harry quickly said before she could say anything. “This pressure you put on yourself is insane. No one can score perfectly on everything. You’re human. You will make mistakes.”

“Harry’s got a point, Hermione” Ron added softly.

Hermione was nearly shaking in anger. Perhaps that hadn’t been the smartest thing to say at the moment. “Fine!” she shouted and stalked off.

The moment she was out of sight everyone turned to Harry and smiled compassionately. “It needed to be said, mate,” Dean said frankly. “She’s really been driving us nutter with it all. Merlin forbid she score anything other than an ‘O’.”

Harry just shrugged. “I can understand her wanting to do well,” he said as they continued walking towards the Gryffindor Tower. “But the way she’s acting now is borderline obsessive.”

Ron stared at Harry as if he had grown another head. “Hermione’s always been like that, mate,” he said earning nods of confirmation from the rest of the group. “Where have you been for the past five years?” Everyone broke out in laughs.

Hermione didn’t speak to anyone for the remainder of the day but it was obvious that some of what Harry had said had to heart. She no longer took her frustrations out on everyone around her but she was still working as hard as ever in order to remember everything as it had appeared in the book. Everyone just let her be. Rome wasn’t built in a day and it was evident that changing Hermione Granger’s beliefs was going to be just as difficult.

Care of Magical Creatures was scheduled for Tuesday. To say that the practical exam was odd would be an understatement. Harry correctly identified the Knarl that was hidden among a dozen hedgehogs but the oddity was that Knarls (normally highly suspicious creatures, generally going berserk at what they believed was an attempt to poison them) actually approached Harry and acted like they were best friends. The oddities didn’t end there. Once again, Harry had no problem handling the Bowtruckle who seemed eager to stay with Harry throughout the rest of the exam by sitting on his shoulder. Harry also managed to feed and clean out a Fire Crab with no problems whatsoever.

To say that the examiner (a plump little witch this time) was surprised was an understatement. She was furiously taking notes long after Harry had said goodbye to the Bowtruckle by leaving it where he got it. Harry was finally dismissed by another examiner after waiting for nearly five minutes in silence. As he walked away, he could still hear his examiner’s quill striking against the parchment.

Remus bit his lips and rushed to Lily’s side and whispered in her ear so no one else would hear. Lily nodded and sad:

“I agree…uhu…I know…makes sense…in denial.”

“Excuse me,” Sirius said annoyed. “No secrets!”

Remus looked at him and rushed to his side and whispered frantically into his ear and Sirius’ words where the same as Lily’s.

“Wouldn’t it have been easier to just tell everyone at once,” James huffed.

“No,” Lily said. “Because you wouldn’t want to hear Remus’ theory of why the magical creatures acted that way.”

“Why?” James asked. “Why did they?”

“Well, you see, empaths don’t just feel what others feel they sometimes project and this way the Knarl and Bowtruckle knew Harry meant no-“

“HARRY IS NOT AN EMPATH!” James yelled.

“Told you so?” Remus shook his head sighing.

Astronomy was held on Wednesday and was one of the easier exams. Remus had relayed several shortcuts for remembering tedious information about moons and rotation cycles which had helped immensely. With the practical exam scheduled for the evening, Harry had to face his Divination exam in the afternoon. He had nearly given his examiner who was the Professor who had examined Malfoy for Charms (Professor Marchbanks) a heart attack when he mentioned that he saw a skull with a snake coming out of its mouth in the crystal ball. The tea-leaf reading wasn’t as traumatic. According to the soggy mush, Professor Marchbanks would have to make a decision in the near future regarding an opportunity. The palm reading only confirmed the tea-leaf reading which seemed to calm the short examiner down.

To say that Harry was relieved that exam was over was an understatement. He had no idea whether he passed or not but he honestly could care less. Divination was probably the one class he was eager to drop. It wasn’t need for any sort of profession Harry could ever possibly want.

“Well, we were bound to fail that one,” Ron said with a shrug as he caught up with Harry.

Harry grinned at the comment. “Is it bad that I really don’t care?” he asked.

Ron shook his head. “After hearing about your untimely death for over two years I’m glad to leave it behind,” he said with all seriousness.

Harry was about to voice his agreement when Hermione came running towards them. “Arithmancy is done!” she exclaimed. “You were right, Harry. I was putting too much pressure on myself to be perfect. Once I stopped worrying about answering everything correctly it was so much easier.”

“And that is why Sirius did better than the others. He didn’t get stressed out!” Lily exclaimed.

“Nope, I didn’t. Not about the exams. What I hated was everyone nagging about them! That was torture!” he moaned.

Ron’s eyes widened in shock. “Am I hearing this correctly?” he asked. “Harry was right and you were wrong?” Harry bit back a laugh while Hermione glared at Ron. “Merlin, I must be dreaming.” Ron turned to Harry and grabbed his robes. “Please tell me I’m not dreaming! I don’t think I could take another Divination exam!”

“No Ron, you aren’t and we have it in Black and White, recorded on paper!” James cried delighted.

“The others books disappeared after we read them,” Remus pointed out.

“Bugger!” James cried.

Harry smacked Ron on the back of the head. “Nope,” he said confidently as Ron cried out in pain. “You’re not dreaming. Come on, we need to look over our star-charts before dinner.”

The Astronomy practical exam was held at eleven o’clock that night. Reaching the top of the Astronomy Tower, Harry noticed the windless and cloudless sky. No one would be able to blame their scores on the weather tonight. The half moon provided enough light but not too much so the stars couldn’t be seen perfectly. Everyone set up their telescope and waited until Professor Marchbanks gave the word before they began filling in the blank star-chart they had been given.

Professors Marchbanks and Tofty walked among them, watching as they entered the exact positions of the stars and planets that they were observing. No one said a word. All that could be heard was the rustle of parchment, the scribbling of quills and the periodic creak of a telescope being moved on its stand. Time passed slowly. Harry finished his star-chart with twenty minutes left in the exam allowing him to double check the majority of his work before Professor Tofty called for everyone to set their quills down. After handing in his star-chart, Harry followed Ron and Hermione to the Gryffindor Tower for some much needed sleep. It had been an extremely long day.

The final OWL exam for Harry was History of Magic, scheduled for the afternoon. This allowed Harry to do a final revision of his notes in the morning along with the rest of the fifth years. Two o’clock came too soon and for the final time, the fifth years entered the Great Hall and sat down in front of their face-down examination papers. From the looks on the faces of everyone around him, Harry could tell that many just wanted the exam over with.

“Turn over your papers,” Professor Marchbanks said from the front of the hall as she turned over the giant hour-glass. “You may begin.”

The test was long and boring. Half-way through Harry’s wrist was aching from writing so much but he continued on. This was one test that one couldn’t dwell too much on one question or on anything other than the exam. It was amazing how many of the questions hadn’t been covered in class. Harry was certain he would have to skip quite a few of them if he hadn’t been tutored by Sirius and Remus. I’ll have to thank them later.

“Yeah, well. We would have had too if Moony hadn’t thought that what Binns taught wasn’t enough,” James huffed.

“You are welcome James,” Remus chuckled. “You too Harry.”

Luckily Harry had just finished the final question as Professor Marchbanks ordered everyone to put their quills down. After handing in his exam, Harry could only let out a sigh of relief as what felt like a large weight lifted from his shoulders. He had survived the OWLs and from the smiles on everyone else’s faces they felt the same way, except for Hermione. She still looked slightly nervous but chances were that she was mentally rechecking to ensure she hadn’t made too many mistakes.

There was no celebration once all of the fifth years returned to their Common Rooms. Everyone was too exhausted to do anything other than lazing around. The two weeks of stress and tiring tests were over for the Gryffindors, allowing them to finally feel it since that they really had nothing to focus on. Ron and Dean ended up playing a game of chess but other than that nothing was really done before everyone dragged themselves to dinner.

Glancing up at the Head Table, Harry could see Sirius and Remus talking quietly to each other. From the looks on their faces Harry concluded that the topic wasn’t a serious one and that Sirius was currently losing the debate, something that he hated.

“That’s true,” James chuckled. “Padfoot hate’s being wrong,” he finished pinching Sirius’ cheeks and his hands where swatted away and he received an evil glare.

Sirius had a scowl on his face while Remus had a smirk.

“Gloating  is rude Moony!” Sirius huffed.

“Yest, so much fun,” Remus said in a singsong voice.

That usually meant that there would be a prank war later tonight. Harry couldn’t help but smile as he returned his attention to his friends. Some things would never change.

After dinner Harry decided to take a chance and visit Sirius and Remus. He cautiously entered Marauder Quarters and wasn’t surprised to see a flash of light narrowly miss him. His instincts instantly took over as Harry went for cover behind the sofa. Peaking over it, Harry rolled his eyes as he saw the state his guardians were in. Sirius looked like he had splotches of paint all over him and his hair was bright green. Remus was dressed in black robes that looked nearly identical to Professor Snape’s and had long black hair in braids other than his normal graying light brown hair. Now that is disturbing.

Harry armed himself and quickly sent a disarming charm at Sirius then another at Remus. Both of their wands went flying as they turned in surprise to see Harry had entered. “Would someone care to explain?” Harry asked as he stood. Sirius and Remus glared at each alerting Harry that the ‘discussion’ wasn’t finished yet. Chances were it would be at least an hour before they moved passed this argument. A few Finite Incantatems later, Sirius and Remus were thankfully back to their original appearances. “You know what? I really don’t want to know. I just wanted to stop by and thank you two for all of your help.” Harry holstered his wand and moved toward the door. “I see you two later.”

“He should have added a ‘children’ after that phrase,” Lily chuckled and Remus glared at her. Sirius, the mature one, stuck his tongue out.

“Harry, wait,” Sirius said instantly. Harry looked over his shoulder at his godfather. “It was a petty argument that got out of hand, nothing more. You just caught us by surprise, that’s all.”

Harry turned around, his gaze shifting between Sirius and Remus. “Are you sure?” he asked cautiously.

“Of course,” Remus said with a smile. “You know us. We’re both too stubborn for our own good.” Remus approached Harry and motioned for him to sit down on the sofa. “So how does it feel to be finished with your OWLs? I must say I’m surprised there haven’t been any celebrations yet.”

Harry sat down with Sirius and Remus quickly joining him. “Everyone’s too tired to celebrate,” he said with a shrug. “I think having History today was what did it. That was the most tedious exam I’ve ever seen.” Sirius and Remus shared a grin at the comment. “I would have been completely lost if I had just relied on what Professor Binns taught us in class.”

Sirius let out a snort as he wrapped an arm around Harry. “At least one good thing came out of my mother forcing me to read those horrid history books when I was younger,” he said. “Binns is too obsessed with the Goblin Wars for my tastes. I’m surprised the Ministry is still allowing him to teach.”

“And because Sirius just happened to comment that he had learned more History from his mother than from Binns, Moony decided to go on research mode and pound our heads with it,” James moaned.

“Once again James, you’re welcome,” Remus said through chuckles.

“What can they do about it, Padfoot?” Remus countered. “He’s a ghost. It’s not like they can physically remove him from the castle.”

“Where there’s a will there’s a way,” Sirius said stubbornly as he ruffled Harry’s messy hair. “So how have you been feeling, kiddo? Any headaches lately?”

Harry shook his head. “Things have actually been quiet on both fronts,” he said truthfully referring to both types of headaches he had fallen victim to. “I haven’t even felt any of Voldemort’s emotions.” Harry was silent for a moment as he thought about what he just said. The fact that he hadn’t felt anything from Voldemort lately came with a mixed response. He was grateful that he wasn’t actually feeling the curses and the visions but on the downside he didn’t know anything. Harry seriously doubted that Voldemort was simply sitting somewhere twiddling his thumbs. “Have you heard anything?”

“Not likely,” Sirius said grimly.

“Actually?” asked Remus. “No. We heard from Tonks that the Death Eaters named in your article have surprisingly been out of reach for questioning. There have been no attempts to break into the Department of Mysteries for the past four months. One would think Voldemort’s given up on trying to obtain the Prophecy but Dumbledore doesn’t believe it.”

“Why don’t we just destroy it?” Harry asked. “If the temptation was removed then we would have nothing to worry about.”

“The only way to do that, Harry, would be to be granted special permissions by the Department of Mysteries and take you there,” Sirius said bitterly. “That is something that we just can’t risk at the moment. Voldemort has spies everywhere. From what we hear, he still hasn’t gotten over his obsession with you.” Sirius pulled Harry closer. “Right now the only way he can hear the Prophecy is to physically be at the Ministry.”

“And no way we’re doing that!” Sirius said seriously.

“Good,” James nodded.

Harry let out a sigh as he relaxed against Sirius’ shoulder. He didn’t like it but he trusted Sirius and Remus to make the right decision. Did Harry want to know what all the fuss was about? To a degree. He really didn’t know if he actually believed in prophecies yet. The fact that Sirius and Remus believed in it made Harry nervous. Neither of his guardians were the type of people to believe in Divination yet they believed this prediction was authentic. They believed he had a destiny.

“Or, we believe Voldemort believes in the prophecy so much that he will make sure it’s fulfilled,” Remus frowned.

“You all right there, cub?” Remus asked gently.

Harry nodded as his eyes closed. He wasn’t about to bother Sirius and Remus with his worries. They had enough on their minds as it was. “Just thinking,” he said quietly.

“Maybe you should call it a night,” Sirius proposed. “It’s been a long two weeks for you.”

Harry nodded again as he pulled himself to his feet. He took a few steps before he turned and faced his guardians. “Thanks again for all you’re help,” he said sincerely. “I don’t know what I would have done without it.”

Sirius and Remus smiled. “You did most of the work, Harry,” Remus said truthfully as he stood up. “We just gave you a nudge in the right direction. Do you want one of us to walk you back to the Gryffindor Tower?”

Harry shook his head. “I’ll be fine,” he said. “It’s not that far.” Harry started to turn but hesitated before looking back at Sirius and Remus. “You two will behave, right? I won’t come here in the morning and find Remus looking like a female Snape again, will I?”

Sirius grinned mischievously. “Only if ol’ Moony behaves, Pronglet,” he said causing Remus to roll his eyes and shake his head slowly.

Harry bid goodnight to his guardians and left. He had a feeling that another prank war was about to start and truthfully didn’t want to be anywhere near the Marauder Quarters for it. Remus hated being called old, especially by Sirius. Of course Sirius hated to be called Rita Skeeter’s boyfriend so it all worked out. Harry reflexively shuddered at the thought of Sirius being in a relationship with Rita Skeeter. Some things are just wrong.

James grinned evilly and Sirius narrowed his eyes, “Don’t James!”

“But Padfoot,” James whined. “Why shouldn’t I rejoice in your love life?”

“She is not part of my love life!” Sirius cried.

The hallways were completely empty. Glancing at his watch, Harry realized why. It was nearly curfew. He picked up his pace. The last thing he needed was to be caught by Professor Snape and lose points for Gryffindor or worse receive a detention. Gryffindor was currently in the lead for the House Cup but Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff weren’t too far behind.  He doubted Professor Snape would take fifty-five points away from Gryffindor for being out after curfew but with Snape you never knew.

Harry was nearly at the staircases when he suddenly felt a chill. He looked over his shoulder only to see darkness. After seeing no movement whatsoever, Harry continued on his way but he kept his body on alert. He only managed a few steps before he was hit by a forceful wave of wind like he had at the Quidditch game, sending him backwards into the wall. Harry’s back and head hit the wall hard, sending pain up and down his spine and throughout the rest of his back. His head throbbed as he fell face first to the floor.

“What?” Lily shrieked. “HELP!”

Footsteps filled his ears. Harry tried to push away the confusion that flooded his mind as he slowly turned his head to see someone standing right in front of him wearing a dark cloak. He attempted to lift his head to see the face of his attacker when something sharp pierced his neck. Drowsiness suddenly overwhelmed his senses. Harry was helpless as he slowly blacked out and knew no more.

“SOMEONE IS KIDNAPPING MY SON! DO SOMETHING!” James yelled shaking Remus.

“WE WILL!” Remus yelled back and looked at Sirius desperately hoping he was right. Sirius shakily turned the page.