Chapter 7 of 21
Reunion of Friends
A knock came from the door. The boys grimaced. James stood up and went to the door mouthing “the spy”. He opened the door and had the shock of his life, “My sweet Lily! You came to see me!”
“Don’t flatter yourself Potter, I had no choice,” she said with an annoyed look, entering the room she nodded to Sirius and Peter and waved to Remus, “Hello Remus, I still don’t understand how a reasonable person like you goes around with the likes of these two,” she said pointing at Sirius and James. She sat on the winged chair near the bed and James sat on the floor with a dreamy expression. “So what are you doing? Your mum said you’re reading Lord of the Rings. I loved it.”
The boys looked at each other uncertain and Remus took out the future book, “Well, we’re not quite reading Lord of the Rings but the book we’re reading is quite interesting too.” They proceeded to explain how they got the book and what happened up until now. To say Lily was shocked was an understatement.
“I married HIM!” she said horrified.
“Yes you did,” James said delighted.
“And who’s the moron that left my son with Petunia?”
“From what we gathered; that would be Dumbledore,” Sirius said.
“Shall I continue?” Remus asked and a chorus of “yes” came.
From that day, everything had seemed to change at Hogwarts. All of Harry's instructors went out of their way to put some fun into the lessons. Their intentions were in the right place but Harry could only feel like they were trying to overcompensate for the bombshell Professor Dumbledore had given him. True, Harry had been down for a few days but his obsession with Sirius Black wouldn't allow his thoughts to remain on the disappointment for long.
After being released from the hospital wing, Harry had been moved to Dumbledore's guest quarters for a few days. Apparently Professor Lupin had fallen ill but when Harry tried to find out more, all anyone would say was that it 'wasn't serious'.
“Oh, Remus. I am sorry you’re sick. I hope that they’re right and that you’ll be okay,” Lily said sympathetically.
Remus smiled and shared a look with the others, what if this book told them what he was? They had already had to disclose Sirius being an animagus. True, Lily believes that is something Sirius is going to become not already has achieved.
During that time, Professor Dumbledore had attempted on numerous occasions to get Harry to open up about this entire mess but Harry would only say that he was fine and needed to get back to studying.
After learning that there had been no woman, Harry started to wonder why he had heard screaming. According to Professor Lupin, Dementors forced people to relive their worst memories but Harry couldn't remember ever hearing a woman scream like that. Afraid that he was losing his mind, Harry didn't press the subject, hoping that it was a one time occurrence.
“Who do you think that woman was?” Peter asked.
“Probably Petunia doing something nasty to him,” Lily said with disgust.
“But the woman needed help. Remember, here: “a terrified scream filled his ears”.” Remus read.
“Well, doesn’t take much to terrify Petunia,” Lily said with a mischievous grin.
“Oh, Evans. Have you been naughty?” Sirius asked proudly. She just smiled back.
Harry was indeed under house—er—castle arrest for the remainder of the holidays. His supplies for the upcoming school year had been delivered by owl post, Madam Malkin had come to measure Harry for new robes herself, and his once enjoyable runs were now dreaded mazes through the castle halls. It was amazing how much something as simple as not being allowed outdoors could change one's mentality. There had been times when teachers had found Harry sitting on a windowsill somewhere in the castle just staring out with a longing look on his face. It broke nearly everyone's heart (Snape was the exception) to see Harry so withdrawn and they could only hope everything would be fine once the students returned.
“Must be dreadfully boring to be cooped up in a space with only grown ups to talk to,” Sirius sympathized.
“But he has free access to the library,” Lily protested and Remus nodded his agreement. The other three looked at them horrified.
Since Harry had signed up for Care of Magical Creatures which was held outdoors, measures had been taken to keep classes away from the Forbidden Forest and in the courtyard. This hadn't settled well with Hagrid, who had been recently promoted to teacher status,
“Cool! Hagrid teaching,” James beamed.
“Yes, but Care of Magical Creatures?” Lily asked.
“No one knows how to care for a magical creature better than Hagrid,” Sirius said defensively.
“I am not doubting that, I am just wondering which type of creature he will be showing the students,” Lily pointed out and the boys grimaced at the thought.
since he had planned on introducing several creatures that felt uncomfortable leaving the forest. The thought of ruining Hagrid's class made Harry feel incredibly guilty and didn't help his mood at all. He was starting to feel like a burden again despite what everyone else was saying.
Once September 1st arrived, Harry was so eager for fresh air that even taking the Hogwarts Express to Hogwarts felt like a vacation. In order to keep up with the charade that every thing was fine and dandy at the Dursleys, Harry needed to arrive to Hogwarts with everyone else. However, that didn't prevent Professor Dumbledore from insisting on at least two adults riding on the train for protection. Professor Lupin was to ride in the train car with Harry while Professor Flitwick rode in the teacher's compartment.
“Oh, Moony gets to ride the train as an adult. I am so jealous,” James pouted.
“You ride the train every year James,” Peter pointed out.
“Not as an adult I don’t.”
The others just gave up understanding James logic.
They had arrived an hour before the train would be leaving by a strange way of traveling called a portkey. Harry really didn't like that way of travel but it was the quickest and the most discrete. They had left all of his belongings at Hogwarts except for the book on defensive charms that he was currently reading. With plenty of time to spare, Harry started to wonder what would happen when he saw Ron and Hermione. He had kept in touch with them but had left his letters extremely vague. He never told them anything about his abduction by giving the excuse 'I'll tell you when I see you'. Harry also had kept them in the dark concerning everything he had been doing and knew he would probably end up paying for it.
Although he hadn't grown much, he had grown due to eating the decent meals he had been given. His training was evident with his more defined muscles if anyone was to see him without his clothes but of course Harry had no intention of allowing that to happen. Already dressed in his robes, Harry's new physical statue was hidden well even though anyone could see he had put on a little weight.
Another change was his glasses. Professor McGonagall had spent nearly a week helping Harry learn how to transfigure objects into a pair of eyeglasses in case his were lost or damaged beyond repair. A part of those lessons involved changing the appearance of them (that was the fun part according to the Transfiguration teacher). Harry now wore a pair of glasses that were wire framed and complemented his face better; at least that was what Professor McGonagall told him.
“That’s quite useful,” Lily nodded. James looked at her weirdly and she snatched his glasses from his face. “Imagine that happening on the middle of a battle?” He nodded and took his glasses back.
Staring out the window at the still empty platform, Harry started to wonder if this had been a good idea. Yes, he missed his friends more than anything but was he really ready to be completely honest with them? No, definitely not. This wasn't about his training. Harry knew he couldn't tell them about that because they would probably be jealous. That and Dumbledore told you not to.
Harry had no intention on announcing to the world what happened at Privet Drive this summer but could he really keep it from Ron and Hermione?
“No! Tell them Harry. Friends help,” Remus urged.
“You sound like you know,” Lily said with a frown.
“That’s just plain logic,” Sirius jumped to help his friend.
“Still,” she continued.
“My parents are nice people,” Remus said defensively.
“Yes, I imagine that. Especially after Mrs. Potter asked me to tell you your mother floo called just before I arrived to remind you to use a nice warm jumper in this weather,” she said with a wicked smile. Remus flushed furiously while the other boys snickered. “Sorry, I forgot to tell you before.”
What if they noticed how close Harry now was with the majority of the teaching staff? Besides Professor Snape,
“Well who would be close to him?” James asked horrified.
“Not you,” Lily said disapprovingly.
the entire teaching staff was on a first name basis with Harry. They were also extremely overprotective. It seemed that in a matter of weeks Harry had gone from having no parents to a strange version of a family. Professor Lupin was acting like a surrogate father,
“Yes, daddy Moony,” Sirius said and Remus smiled. James tried to smile but that came more like a grimace. Lily patted his shoulder. James sported a dreamy look after that.
Madam Hooch and Professor Sprout acted like the fun aunts, Professor Flitwick acted like the fun uncle, Hagrid was of course the protective big brother, Professor McGonagall acted like a strict grandmother, and Professor Dumbledore was the patient and understanding grandfather. Mrs. Weasley had already taken the position of overbearing mother.
It was enough to make anyone's head spin.
"Harry?" Professor Lupin asked curiously. "Is something wrong?"
“Hum, Yes!” Sirius stated.
Snapping out of thoughts, Harry quickly looked over at Professor Lupin and shook his head. He really didn't trust himself to talk right now. What could he say? I'm fine. I'm just worried what my best friends will think when they learn that I let my uncle beat me and the man who betrayed my parents take me from my home.
“Lies, Harry! Lies!” Sirius cried.
Nothing out of the ordinary.
"I'm sure your friends are just worried about you, Harry," Lupin said gently. "You don't have to tell them anything if you're not ready to. If they are true friends they will respect your decision."
“You know Moony, I think you’re a very smart bloke,” Sirius said and Remus smiled, “That said, since when do friends respect friend decisions to not tell them things?” he asked raising his arms. Remus had to agree to that one from personal experience.
Harry's gaze fell. "But what if they find out about the Dursleys?" he asked softly. "I know I'm not ready to tell them but you don't know Ron and Hermione. If they think I'm hiding something they won't stop until they figure out what it is. What if I have another flashback?"
Lupin frowned. Apparently Harry hadn't progressed as much as they had thought. "You haven't had one in the past two weeks, Harry," Lupin said. "We talked about this. You know that if something happens or if you need to talk my office is always open. Professor Dumbledore and Professor McGonagall have told you the same. Just because school is starting doesn't mean we're going to turn our back on you."
“Nope, they’re still your family. Weird as they may be,” James nodded. Remus glared at him and Lily smacked him on the head.
Harry's shoulders slumped. He knew it sounded childish but he just couldn't help himself. "I know," he said softly. "I'm sorry—"
"—you have nothing to apologize for," Lupin interrupted. "You've had a difficult and lonely summer. It may take some time to adjust to the noise and commotion of having a castle full of people." Noticing that Harry was still extremely nervous, Lupin decided to change the topic. "How would you like to hear how your father managed to propose to your mother?"
“Yes, please do tell,” James begged.
“I find myself curious too. Was I drunk when I accepted?” Lily said leaning forward.
Harry looked up at Professor Lupin and nodded, his dread instantly forgotten. Lupin had already told Harry several stories about the Marauders' school days. They always seemed to have a calming affect better than any potion. Relaxing, Harry listened as Lupin told his story. He could even picture it happening in his mind. Harry liked these stories about his parents. It was like his parents were actual people now.
“He’s not going to tell?” James asked disgruntled.
“Apparently, that’s going to be one of those missing scenes moments, “ Remus explained.
“Why, did they lose the scene? “ Peter asked.
“No, it’s one of those things that the author tells you that happened but doesn’t elaborate or the book would never end, “ Remus explained patiently.
“Still sucks, I wanted to know how I proposed,” James mumbled.
Before Harry knew it people were arriving on the platform but he was too engrossed in Professor Lupin's story to worry about it. In fact, it wasn't until the compartment door opened that Harry realized how much time had passed. Both Harry and Lupin turned to see a tall, freckled face, red haired boy and a tan, bushy haired girl with a strange looking orange cat in her arms standing in the doorway. There was an uncomfortable silence while the two teenagers stared at Harry in shock.
“Who are they?” Sirius asked.
“Venturing a guess: Ron and Hermione,” Lily said as if talking to a small child.
Finally, the girl moved first by putting the cat down then rushing to Harry and hugging him as hard as she could. "We were so worried!" she exclaimed. "I know you said you were fine but we just couldn't believe it. How could you be fine after being kidnapped by someone like Sirius Black?
“He can be perfectly fine because I took care of him and loved him very deeply,” Sirius mumbled annoyed at the constants remarks about his supposed Death Eater’s activities.
Both Ron and I tried to convince Dumbledore to let us visit but he wouldn't. He wouldn't tell us anything except that you were safe!"
Harry glanced over at Lupin who was desperately trying not to laugh. "Er—Hermione?" Harry asked uncomfortably. "I'm fine, really. But I would appreciate it if you would let me breathe."
Hermione instantly let go of Harry and sat down beside him. It was then that she finally noticed someone else was in the car. She looked at the unfamiliar face uncertainly. "Oh, pardon me," she said politely. "Are you a friend of Harry's? I'm Hermione Granger and this—" she pointed at Ron "—is Ronald Weasley."
Lupin bowed his head slightly and smiled. "Please to meet you," he said kindly. "I'm Remus Lupin, the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. Harry and I were just discussing the interesting tutelage you've had in that area in the past few years. One dead and another without a memory. Not exactly a positive track record."
“Excuse me, what?” Remus asked alarmed.
“Moony leave the job! It’s dangerous!” Sirius said grabbing Remus as if at any moment he would disappear.
“I am sure he’ll be okay. Something must have happened to those two,” Lily said while taking that book from Remus’ hand, who was still busy trying unsuccessfully to get out of Sirius death grip. She continued reading.
Ron entered and sat down across from Hermione. "Er—well people say the position is cursed," he said sounding slightly nervous. "You don't have You-Know-Who attached to the back of your head or steal other people's accomplishments, do you?"
"Ron!" Hermione shouted. "Don't be rude! He's a teacher!"
The door opened again revealing a red haired girl whose eyes went wide at the sight of Harry. Ginny Weasley, Ron's sister and the youngest of the Weasley children, immediately blushed and avoided his eyes. "I'm glad to see you're okay, Harry," she said shyly. "We've all been worried about you."
“Oh, how cute,” Lily cooed, “Someone has a crush.”
“Well, she does have the necessary traits to woo any son of mine,” James said smiling.
“And what would that be?” Lily asked.
“You know,” he said stroking her hair, “the gorgeous red hair.”
She blushed, then remembered who she was talking too and swatted his hand huffing. The frown did not reach her eyes though.
Two more red heads that looked identical to each other poked their heads in. Harry could hear Hermione and Ron groan in annoyance. Fred and George Weasley, pranksters extraordinaire had arrived and planned on making their presence known. "Hey Harry!" said a cheerful Fred. "How've you been?"
"We missed you this summer," added George.
"Yes, we could have used another test subject," Fred said with an evil grin. "Tormenting Ickle Ronniekins lost its fun after awhile and Ginny was certainly off limits."
“Why do I think I am going to like these two?” Sirius asked and James nodded his agreement.
“Because you’re nothing but a troublemaker Black,” Lily pointed out.
"Too true, my dear Forge," said George. "Plus, we can always count on Harry to keep life interesting."
"I agree, Gred," said Fred.
Hermione rolled her eyes and let out a frustrated sigh, Ron's face was red with embarrassment, Ginny and Professor Lupin were trying hard not to laugh, and Harry was just taking it all in. Leave it to the Weasley twins to be the ones who acted normal. "Is this a private conversation or can anyone join in?" Harry asked with a smile.
Both Fred and George looked shocked. "Harry, as honorary member of the Weasley family," Fred began. "You should know by now—"
"—that there is no such thing as privacy," George added.
“Have to agree with them,” Remus mumbled eyeing his friend that smiled back innocently.
"So brother, we heard you had been moved to a safer location after the whole incident. Please, oh please tell us there was at least some delinquent behavior on your part."
“See, told you we’d like them,” Sirius said beaming.
"Is this a conversation I want to be present for?" Professor Lupin asked curiously however it was obvious he was enjoying the banter between the twins. "Merlin forbid I hear of a plot to prank the school from the legendary Weasley twins."
“Legendary? I bet they are not as legendary as the Marauders,” James stated.
“I am sure not,” Lily dryly said, the boys smiled proudly, “The school wouldn’t survive another ser of troublemakers like you.” The boys smile just got bigger at that and Lily shook her head.
Fred and George smiled proudly. "Did you hear that?" asked Fred. "Legendary! And Mum thought we'd never amount to anything. HA!"
"Actually, my dear brother, that was Bighead Percy who said that," George corrected shaking his head slowly. "The shame of our older brother being Head Boy is something we shall never live down."
“That’s not a shame, that’s a big honor,” Lily cried and James looked horrified.
“Why would anyone want to be Head Boy for? That would take the fun out of life.”
"I agree," Fred added. He seemed deep in thought for a moment before turning to George with an eager look on his face. "Perhaps we should start deflating his big head."
"An excellent idea!" George exclaimed. "Well farewell our dear siblings, honorary siblings and esteemed professor. We have plenty of work to do. It may take months to instill enough damage to bring Percy back to a place we mere humans call earth."
"True, true," said Fred then followed his brother out of the compartment.
Once the compartment door closed, Harry looked over at Hermione who was petting the orange cat she had been holding earlier. Desperate to start some conversation that wasn't centered on him, Harry figured to start with the obvious. "So Hermione, you got a new pet?" Harry asked.
Hermione beamed. "A birthday present from my parents," she said happily. "I was going to get an owl but when I saw Crookshanks I just couldn't say no. He's gorgeous, isn't he?"
Harry glanced over at Ron with a raised eyebrow. In his opinion the cat was anything but gorgeous. Its fur was thick and fluffy and its face looked strange; a bit grumpy and strangely squashed. Harry had to wonder if it had run face first into a brick wall. However the animal seemed to be content and was purring while Hermione stroked the creature.
"It's a bloody monster, that's what it is," Ron said in annoyance. "Just keep that—that—thing away from Scabbers!"
“Who’s Scabbers?” Peter asked.
“Don’t know, hasn’t been mentioned yet,” Sirius said.
There was a loud whistle distracting everyone. Harry looked out the window as the train started to move. He glanced over at Professor Lupin then returned to staring out the window. He really wasn't looking forward to returning back to all of the restrictions Professor Dumbledore had put on him. He really wasn't looking forward to returning to a Dementor guarded castle.
“Well honestly, who would?” James asked. The other boys shivered and Lily mumbled something in the neighborhood of ‘stupid Minister’.
"So, Professor," Hermione said breaking the silence. "If you don't mind my asking, why are you on the train? I mean, we've never had a teacher ride with us before and I was just curious…" She finally noticed that everyone was staring at her. "I'll be quiet now."
“Poor Hermione, she doesn’t look like she knows when not to ask questions,” Sirius remarked.
Professor Lupin looked at Harry who just shrugged before returning his eyes to Hermione. "Due to recent events Professor Dumbledore wanted a few teachers to be on the train as a precaution," he said casually. "I'm sure you're aware that Sirius Black hasn't been caught. Although it is unlikely that he would board the train, we would rather be safe than sorry."
“Yes because I am not stupid enough to board a train full of people that prefer to believe in Lies than on his best friend,” Sirius growled.
“Not to belittle your indignation but if you are just talking about Remus you can’t very well say “full of people”,” Lily pointed out. She just received a glare in return.
Harry let out a huff. "In other words Professor Lupin is my bodyguard until we get back to Hogwarts," he summarized; his annoyance coming to the surface. "I'm not allowed to do anything this year, including going to Hogsmeade."
“Sacrilege!” James shouted.
“James, we’ve been trough this,” Remus sighed.
“I still want to manifest my thoughts on the matter,” James snapped.
Ron and Hermione stared at Harry in shock. "B—but surely Black would never try to attack an entire village of people in broad daylight!" Hermione exclaimed. "No one is that thick!"
“Oh, thank you for your faith in me. It’s not that you think I am innocent, you just don’t think I can be that thick!”
“Well to be fair, she doesn’t know you,” Lily said shrugging.
She looked over at Ron for help but only received a shrug. "Honestly! That is so unfair! You have your permission slip signed, right?"
Harry winced. "Er—no," he said nervously. How in the world was he supposed to get out of this?
“Oh, no. Poor Harry. They are going to find out everything,” Peter fretted.
"Hermione, I must advise for you to calm down," Professor Lupin said in his ever present casual tone.
“Yes, Moony to the rescue!” James cried delighted.
"If you remember, the school letters containing the permission slip were sent out after the whole mess with Black had happened. Also, Professor Dumbledore does have the final word on those who can or can not go to Hogsmeade. He has his reasons and we just have to accept that."
Hermione looked away, ashamed of her outburst. "I'm sorry," she said softly. "I didn't mean to be disrespectful it's just this was supposed to be so much fun and now we can't go."
Harry had to think about what she said for a moment, certain that he had heard wrong. "What do you mean 'we'?" he asked. "I'm the only one who can't go. You two shouldn't have to stay behind because of me."
“Well but as good friends that they are they are going to keep you company,” James told the book. Lily looked at him and cooed.
“Oh, that’s so sweet!”
“Thank you,” James said blushing.
"But you'll be stuck in the castle all alone," Ron objected. "We could never do that to you."
"He won't be alone," Lupin said with a smile. "Professor Dumbledore thought it would be wise to give Harry some advanced lessons in defense which is a good idea considering his history."
Hermione's eyes grew wide in shock. "E—extra lessons?" she stuttered then turned to Harry. "You're getting extra lessons? Oh! Can we join! We could really use the practice especially after the last two years. Please, oh please! The chance to learn how to defend ourselves properly is just too good to pass up!"
“Why would anyone want extra lessons?” Sirius asked horrified.
“Some people like to study,” Lily answered. Sirius just kept staring at her in shock.
Harry and Ron groaned. They both knew Hermione would now stop at nothing to be a part of these classes. "You really shouldn't have said that, Professor," Harry said softly. "Hermione's favorite place is the library. She signed up for every elective there is."
Professor Lupin winced. "Sorry," he said sincerely.
It seemed that Hermione was in heaven as she and Professor Lupin discussed his plans for the upcoming year.
Remus sighed and everyone stopped to look at him. With a smile he said, “I just realized that I am a Hogwarts Professor.”
“Moony, they said that in chapter three,” Peter said cautiously.
“I know, but there was so much going on that the thought of me being a teacher just started to sink now,” and he sighed in delight again.
Knowing better than to interrupt Hermione when she was in her element, Harry and Ron settled on the floor and played a game of chess while Ginny silently watched. In retrospect, Professor Lupin had done Harry a favor. Hermione was now so engrossed in school to question Harry about the summer. It was clear that Ron didn't know what to say and Ginny was too shy to ask.
Rain had started to fall around mid-afternoon. Hermione had finally given up her pestering and was now reading one of her many books, Ron and Ginny were telling Harry about their trip to Egypt, and Professor Lupin was going over his class notes. Harry had to laugh when he heard of Fred and George trying to trap Percy in a pyramid.
“That’s not nice,” Lily huffed while the boys burst out laughing.
He had nothing against the newly declared Head boy. Percy was just a little too strict. Of course with Fred and George as brothers Harry had to assume that someone needed to be their opposite.
The compartment door slid open quickly making Ginny and Hermione jump. Three boys stood in the doorway. The one standing in the middle and the leader was Draco Malfoy.
“What? Malfoy reproduced?” Lily asked in horror.
James patted her biting his lip, “Yes, we know. We were shocked too.”
He was flanked by his cronies, Vincent Crabbe and Gregory Goyle who always seemed to share a brain. How the boys could pass their classes was still a mystery. All three were in Slytherin so naturally were rivals to the four Gryffindors in the compartment.
"Well, well," drawled Malfoy in his usual lazy voice. "If it isn't Potty, two Weasels and a Mudblood. What's the matter, Potter? So scared that you need a babysitter now?"
“Like father, like son,” Lily huffed, “Can’t they at least try some originality in their insults?”
“When did Malfoy insult you?” James asked enraged.
“A long time ago James. I was in first year,” she calmed him.
“At least we don’t have to stand the git anymore now,” Sirius said disgusted, “I heard he got engaged to my cousin Narcissa. They deserve each other.”
Harry rolled his eyes and bit back the urge to curse his rival. "Of you, Malfoy?" he asked in annoyance. "Not likely."
"Malfoy?" Lupin asked curiously then comprehension flooded his face. "Ah yes, Draco Malfoy, Lucius Malfoy's son. I see that your father has passed his ideals down to you. However, I suggest you refrain from using such language and respect people's privacy by returning to your own compartment."
“Oh, Moony. That doesn’t work with a Malfoy. They need to get kicked out of the compartment,” Sirius pointed out mimicking said kicking.
Malfoy sneered at the man. "And who are you to give me orders?" he asked.
“How rude,” Lily mumbled.
Ron smiled. "Professor Lupin," he said proudly. "He's the new Defense teacher. Congratulations Malfoy. You've managed to set a bad impression even before the Welcoming Feast. Fred and George haven't even accomplished that yet."
“Ha! In your face Malfoy! Now Moony is going to give you detention or something,” James cried in joy.
Malfoy's cheeks turned pink with embarrassment. Unable to think of a comeback, the only thing he could do was leave which he did followed by Crabbe and Goyle. As soon as the compartment door closed, Ron, Hermione and Ginny burst out laughing. Harry couldn't join them. He returned to staring out the window again. He had made up his mind. He wasn't going to tell anyone anything about this summer. He couldn't chance Malfoy finding out somehow and ridiculing him for it. Professor Snape was bad enough.
“I don’t think his friends would tell anyone,” Lily stated.
“He doesn’t know that, and when you’re afraid of something rationality flies off the window.” Remus pointed out. Lily surveyed him with narrowed eyes and he fidgeted a bit on the bed. James cleared his throat and pointed to the book to save his friend from scrutiny.
The travel north continued but it was now a rather quiet journey. The rain fell stronger and the now dark skies made the entire atmosphere feel a bit on the creepy side. The wind picked up causing a strong howling that made everyone jumpy. It was clear that everyone was thinking the same thing: the sooner they got to Hogwarts the better.
However their eagerness died as the train started to slow and eventually stopped. Everyone turned to Professor Lupin who was slowly standing up and pulling his wand out. "You four stay put," he said softly then looked directly at Harry. "Don't let anyone or anything in here."
“What’s going on? Why did they stop?” Peter asked scared.
“Don’t worry Wormtail, Moony isn’t going to let anything happen,” James said reassuring his friend.
“But what if that’s Sirius that came to kill everyone?” Peter stuttered.
“Hey, I did not and will not kill anyone!” Sirius shouted outraged. James tried to calm Peter while Remus tried to restrain Sirius to the bed.
Harry was about to nod when a familiar feeling of intense cold filled his entire body. He struggled to breathe as he grabbed his chest.
“NOOOOOOOOOO!” four voices shouted.
“What? What’s happening? Do you know?” Lily asked terrified. The boys shakily nodded.
No, oh please no! They can't be here! His body started to shake as Professor Lupin hurried to his side. Ron, Hermione and Ginny were staring in shock. They had never seen Harry act like this before.
Thinking quickly, Lupin pulled out a chocolate bar and put a piece in Harry's mouth. "Just let it melt, Harry," he said calmly. "Don't focus on the cold." Remembering that they weren't alone, Professor Lupin quickly handed out chocolate to the other three Gryffindors. "Eat it, you may need it."
“Why are you handing out chocolate when my son is clearly sick? Get him a healer!” Lily shouted.
James took a hold of her arms and tried to calm her down, “He is helping Lily. Dementors are coming, chocolate helps.”
“Ah, sorry. Thank you,” she said embarrassed.
The compartment door slowly slid open to reveal a tall cloaked figure. Its face was completely hidden beneath its hood. Professor Lupin quickly stood up and pointed his wand at the creature. All of the warmth the chocolate had given Harry was now gone. He couldn't breathe again. A familiar voice filled his ears but this time it was saying something.
"Not Harry, please no, take me, kill me instead —"
“Who’s talking? Whose voice is that?” Sirius asked horrified clinging to Remus.
A warm hand touched his forehead as another piece of chocolate was put in his mouth, pulling Harry out of the cold. Opening his eyes, Harry looked up to see Professor Lupin, Ron, Hermione and Ginny looking at him worriedly. A tear escaped his right eye as he looked away. He knew who the voice belonged to now. "Mum," he said softly.
“OH no, that’s sad. That’s horrible. He heard my last seconds. No Harry don’t worry, mummy is here.”
“Hum, Lily,” Sirius said biting his lip, “You’re not. I mean in the book, for Harry. You’re dead.” He wished he could take that back at the sorrowful look on her face.
Lupin gripped Harry's left shoulder. "What did you say?" he asked.
Harry looked up at the friend of his parents with unshed tears in his eyes. "I heard Mum," he said in a shaky voice. "She was begging for Voldemort to kill her instead of me."
“Of Course I was. I wasn’t about to let him kill my baby!” Lily said with tears in her eyes. James, Sirius and Remus were discreetly wiping their eyes too. Peter didn’t know how to react.
The whistle blew and the train started to move. Ron, Hermione and Ginny sat down across from Harry while Professor Lupin sat down beside the teenager and put an arm around his shoulders. Harry tensed at first like he always did before relaxing. His worst memory. He now knew that it was that Halloween night that Voldemort had murdered his parents.
The compartment door opened again followed by Professor Flitwick poking his head in. "Is everything all right?" he asked then noticed Harry and let out a sigh. "How close were they this time?"
Ron, Hermione and Ginny looked at Harry with their eyes wide but remained silent. Harry didn't even notice them. He was still shaking but not as badly as before. He could feel his body slowly warming up but his mind was still on hearing his mother's voice. She now had a voice.
“Well, why are they staring? What do they think? That my baby is just going to hear my sweet Lily die and then just stand up as if everything was fine and dandy?” James asked angry.
“They are just shocked James. They’ve never seen this happen and they are just thirteen. Did you know how to act on a situation like this at thirteen? Mind you, do you know how to act on a situation like this now?” Remus asked, James mumbled something that no one understood and Lily kept reading forgetting to scold James for calling her his sweet Lily.
"It was right where you're standing," Professor Lupin answered. "Have you talked to the conductor yet?"
Flitwick nodded. "I've also been checking on the compartments," he said. "Several students are a bit shaken up but seem to be fine otherwise." He approached Harry and put a gentle hand on the boy's arm. "Don't focus on the memory, Harry. Try and think of something happy, something in the present."
"Well, we're almost there," Professor Lupin said to the three onlookers. "You should probably change into your robes."
Hermione was the first to stand but was hesitant to move any more than that. It was clear that she had questions but was afraid to ask them. "Professors, what was that thing?" she asked nervously.
"That was a Dementor," said Professor Flitwick. "They guard Azkaban prison and were searching the train for Sirius Black."
“And that was a useless piece of horror for everyone on the train since I am NOT STUPID to get on a train full of people who would hand me to the Dementors!”
Harry had finally stopped shaking but still felt weak. He noticed Professor Lupin offering another piece of chocolate and gratefully took it. The affects were instant the moment Harry put the piece in his mouth. He almost felt normal. Well, as close to normal as one could be after hearing your mother beg for your life.
Everyone grimaced.
Ron, Hermione and Ginny left to change followed by Professor Flitwick who needed to check the rest of the compartments. Both Harry and Professor Lupin sat in silence for the remainder of the trip. Neither knew what to say if there really was anything to say. How do you comfort someone in a situation like this? You can't. All you can do is be there for them when they need you.
“And Moony is. He always is,” Sirius said hugging Remus who patted his back and attempted to hide his blush.
The moment they arrived at the station Harry noticed that there were wizards stationed all over the place. Harry had been told about this ahead of time and that it was just a safety precaution but it still was a little nerve-wracking to see. Professor Lupin remained by Harry's side as they departed the train with Ron, Hermione and Ginny following. Whispers broke out as the students finally got a look at the-boy-who-lived. It made Harry feel extremely self conscious to have so many people watching him despite how much he tried to ignore it.
“He’s quite shy isn’t he?” James asked.
“Nothing like his father,” Lily mumbled.
Professor Flitwick caught up with the group as they reached at least one hundred horseless carriages. Now feeling extremely uncomfortable with the attention he was receiving, Harry let Professor Lupin direct him to the first carriage. He got in followed by Professors Lupin and Flitwick. Ron, Hermione and Ginny got in the next one, leaving Harry with the two teachers.
“I know Harry must be used by now but I’d be incredibly uncomfortable sitting alone with two teachers,” Peter stated flatly.
“Professor Flitwick is a very nice person. I’ve had very interesting conversations with him after class,” Lily remarked.
Sirius coughed something that sounded remarkably like “teacher’s pet”.
The distinct odor of mold and straw hit Harry's nose but he didn't pay much attention to it as the carriage started moving towards the school. As they reached the gates, Harry was hit with another wave of cold and slowly moved back and into Professor Lupin. He closed his eyes as he grabbed his chest never noticing Professor Lupin gently rubbing his back in a comforting manner. They moved on to the castle, the carriage picking up speed until it came to an abrupt halt.
Professor Flitwick was the first to get out. Professor Lupin moved to follow but noticed that Harry was still in the same position. It was almost like the boy was petrified. "Harry, it's okay," Lupin said gently. "You're safe, back at Hogwarts."
“Yeah, well, that’s arguable. I mean, have you forgotten the Basilisk we know nothing about yet. Voldemort and let’s not forget that his first encounter with a Dementor was on Hogwarts grounds,” Sirius said annoyed.
Slowly Harry looked over at Lupin and nodded in understanding. He was really starting to hate the affect the Dementors had on him. He didn't want to be hearing his mother beg Voldemort. The fear in her voice sent chills down his spine. Following Professor Lupin and Professor Flitwick, Harry tried to focus on the present like he had been told but was finding it difficult. He mindlessly walked up the steps and through the large oak front doors to the Entrance Hall.
"Potter! Granger!" a familiar voice yelled though the chatter of the students getting out of the carriages. When Harry finally looked up he noticed Professor McGonagall approaching. She quickly stole a glance from Professor Lupin then looked at Harry sympathetically. "Madam Pomfrey is waiting for you, Potter," she said quietly then turned to Hermione. "Miss Granger, come with me please."
Harry was about to object and insist he was fine but Professor Lupin silenced him with a look. Frustrated, Harry let out a scoff as he reluctantly followed Lupin to the hospital wing. Madam Pomfrey had been ready for him. She quickly checked him over, not even listening to Harry's protests. Several potions were ingested and before Harry knew it darkness consumed him.
“Poor Harry, first day of school and already in the Hospital Wing,” Remus sighed.
A/N: Thanks everyone for reviewing!
“Hey, I never reviewed!” James cried.
“Well you should have, since the author is thanking you,” Lily scolded him. James gave her a sheepish smile.
A knock came from the door and all five of them jumped startled. The door opened and Mrs. Potter entered smiling, “Lunch is ready.”