Hey everyone, i hope you enjoy! Oh and i own practically nothing. I hope you read it, i know my chapters are very long and sometimes over detailed. “Hey keep your sickness off me, trying to get through,
Blame all your weakness on me,
Shame that I'm so contrite,
Hey keep your fingers off me, why can't I get through?”
- Country Song, Seether
I ran through the castle. I was seriously late and Russ would not be happy. The one day I sleep in, is the one day I need to be up early. I finally made it outside and I could see the congregation at the pitch. Everyone was already there ahead of me. Shit, shit, shit, Russ is going to kill me!
I finally made it to the pitch and skidded to a stop before I hit Russ’ back. I tapped him lightly on the shoulder, interrupting his speech. Defiantly not the first time I interrupted him on something semi-important. He whipped around and narrowed his eyes at me.
“Where have you been?” He hissed quietly.
“I passed out.” I whispered so only he could hear me.
“What? Oh well um just get dressed and we will start. I am just doing briefings.” He said shocked, which he should be. I have never slept past seven since I’ve been at Hogwarts. Damn I must have been exhausted.
“Okay.” I said nodding and walking swiftly into the girl’s changing room. I went to the only locker there and pulled out my Quidditch practice clothes. I was the only girl on a Quidditch team in Hogwarts. Last year there were three others and they were all on the Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff team but they all graduated last year.
I pulled on a red t-shirt with my number on it, seven, in golden lettering. All seekers were given seven. Then I pulled on my black gym shorts that once belonged to Russ and my shoes. I pulled my hair up and picked up my broom.
My broom was the same one my dad had when he went to Hogwarts. It is the only Galaxy 2000 broom left. It was made with rosewood branches and the twigs that were handpicked for this type of broom. My dad’s cousin helped my dad make this broom by hand. Most would be surprised to know that my broom is still one of the fastest out there even if the model is well over twenty years old. I think it’s because brooms, like wands, pick the rider and this broom picked my dad and then me.
I walked out to the Quidditch pitch to see about twenty or so guys and a few girls on the bleachers listening to Russ. I found my team mates at the top of the stands and I went to join them. Everyone who knows Russ, knows, that it’s going to take a while for his speech to be over with.
I made it to the top to see my remaining three team mates. There was Abraham Sora who was one of our beaters. He is super tall and built with square rimmed glasses and wave blonde hair. His cousin Seth Sora is our other beater and they look similar in looks except Seth is shorter and stockier and didn’t have glasses. Our keeper was Adam Nestley. He was quiet and not as towering as the others on the team. He was about average in every way possible but everyone loved him. He has brown hair and brown eyes with no striking feature but was one of my favorite team mates and one of my better friends. Mostly we joke around a lot together. All three of them are sixth years, making me currently the youngest player on the team.
I took my seat in between Abraham and Adam.
“How long has he been talking for?” I asked.
“Long enough.” Abraham mumbled next to me.
Russ was still talking and I could see disinterest amongst the crowd. I looked at Adam for the cue and he nodded his head and stated nudging me to go on.
“Let’s get on with it Russ! Half of these people are falling asleep; unless of course your first test is to see if they will stay up for one of your speeches!” I called from the bleachers making my team mates and a few others in the crowd laugh. Russ nodded his head with a slight frown then rolled his eyes. Whether he liked it or not, he knew I was right.
“Alright, I want everyone to run around the pitch. On an interesting note, anyone who can beat Nikki will automatically get on the team.” He said with a grin.
Everyone got off the bleachers as well as me. The rest of the team came down too but stood by Russ.
“How about this, we give Redwood a head start.” Potter said looking down at me with a smirk. If only he knew.
“I’m not the one who is going to need it.” I retorted flashing a mischievous smile.
“Yeah let them have a head start Nikki.” Russ said grinning. “Oh your mark, get set, go!” He called as everyone started to run, except me. I stood there for a second until they had made some okay distance; about 30 yards and then I took off.
As seeker, I am lightweight and meant for speed. Since my first year of Hogwarts, I always ran in the mornings, so I have trained my muscles to move in the quickest speed I could. I zoomed through the crowd of want to be chasers, swerving past some and ducking under others and even sliding between a few, until I was almost in front. Blocking my path was Potter and Black. I decided I needed to win this because I did not want them on my team especially with an easy win like this, so I grabbed Black by his shoulders and used him as a lift to launch myself ahead. I landed on my feet and continued running until I made it back to Russ, earning a nice slap on the back. I laughed along with Adam as the rest of the people trying out finally made it panting like dogs on a hot summer’s day.
“Alright,” Russ called out to the crowd. “Adam and Nikki will divide you into teams of two. The rest of my team, come with me.” He walked off leaving Adam and me alone with a crowd of twenty.
“You take the left, I’ll take the right?” Adam asked.
“Only if you let me divide Potter and Black then we got a deal.” I said with grin happily. Quidditch always seemed to have the effect on me.
“Alright, whatever you say.” Adam said as he walked off.
I walked over to Potter and Black. “Potter, you go with Steinbeck. Black, you’re with Wright.” I said with a nasty grin as I walked off and divided the rest of the team. I knew they were groaning.
When Adam and I were done we had ten groups of two. Russ walked back to us. “Alright, Adam I need you to go up to the hoops alright. Nikki I have a special job for you.” Russ smirked.
“Oh! Do tell then.” I said, jumping up and down excitedly.
“I need you to be a human Bludger.” Russ said with a pat on the back. “Alright, you two, you’re up.” Russ said pointing at the first group. “Let’s go.”
Nine groups later and we narrowed it down to five candidates and my arm was bruised badly from slamming into people. Sadly Black and Potter both made it this far. “Alright Black and Potter, you’re with me. Wright, Quill, and Hernandez, you will be the other team. Everyone else,” Russ addressed the rest of the team, “Resume your regular positions, except Nikki.” He addressed me now, “You come over here.” I walked up and Russ gave me a grin. “Be the Bludger again. This time I want you to focus on Potter and Black. They look like they are going to make the cut.”
With a groan I joined the team in the air, along with Russ and all the guys trying out. I flew up in the air and Seth passed the Quaffle to me. He nodded his head toward the chasers and I knew I had to start it off. With the Quaffle in hand I dived down in between the two teams, throwing the Quaffle up high in the air. The mock game begins!
Immediately Potter scored a goal and I aimed for him. I flew straight up in the air and dived back down cork screwing at Potter bumping him just as he was about to capture the Quaffle, making me grin. I flew toward Black who grabbed the dropped ball. I flew underneath him and flipped over so I was upside down. I kicked him hard in the stomach but he kept flying until he threw the Quaffle in the hoops making another goal as I just missed flying into its path way. One more and they would win already. Wright picked up the Quaffle and started making his way toward the goal. Just as he threw it, I flew in the path knocking it off course. Russ recovered the ball and threw it to Black and he passed it to Potter. Abraham aimed a Bludger at him and knocked him sideways and he dropped the Quaffle to Quill. Quill was off and I went after him. I flew above him and dropped onto the tail end of his broom making him buck up ward and fly off his broom. Luckily he was close to the ground. Then the only girl left, Hernandez snatched the Quaffle and went for the goal. Adam blocked it and Potter recovered the ball. Just as he went for another shot I bumped him aside and he threw it to Russ who went for the shot. Adam blocked it again but Black got ball and made the shot through the middle hoop. Damn it.
We all flew back to the ground. Russ clapped Potter and Black on the back.
“Great job boys, you’re on the team.” Russ grinned then turned to the other three. “Sorry, maybe next time.” He said as the three stalked off knowing that it was mostly false hope.
“Good job. Welcome to the team.” Seth said with Abraham clapping them on the back. Adam walked up next to me.
“Merlin Nikki, what did you do to your arm?” Adam said poking it. Pain shot threw my arm and I looked down to see a nasty bruise from where I was bumming everyone.
“Eh I am fine.” I laughed. “Better then Black; I pegged him in the stomach.” I grinned.
“Great work team! Now we have a few things to discuss so everyone, get changed. Nikki when you finish meet in our changing room, like usual.” Russ said looking over at me. I nodded my head and walked off to my changing room.
When I got changed I put everything away and walked into the guys changing room. Most of them were still shirtless but I was unfazed. I looked around and found a bench. I sat down and started whistling. Potter’s head shot up and looked over at me.
“What the hell are you doing in here?” Potter yelled.
“Um waiting?” I told him questioningly. I knew he was confused about my presences but I liked to make people feel stupid.
“Um we are changing.” Black informed me.
“Really? I didn’t know.” I remarked sarcastically as I stood up. “Hey Adam!” I called over to Adam who was next to Black.
He popped his head up. “Yes?” He questioned.
“Did you know your changing?” I asked.
“Am I?” He asked back. “I never knew.” He remarked in awe.
“Me neither. Black made me see the light!” I yelped with my hands raised in the air and we both started laughing.
“Alright you two, that’s enough, give them a break.” Seth said making me frown.
“When I first made the team, you and Abraham were ruthless. You always picked on me!” I reminded them.
“Yeah but you were a little second year!” They laughed in unison. “Everyone knows Third years and any lower are fair game.”
“Ha you two are funny.” I snarled jokingly. “Maybe if the tables were turned you won’t be laughing as much.”
“Hey, everyone, let’s keep it together, alright? Gather around here.” Russ said as he walked out of the showers dressed. Since when did Russ dress in the shower?
We all walked over to the benches. Potter and Black took the left one, while Adam, Seth and Abraham took the right one. I was left to sit on the floor.
“Alright, we will have Quidditch practice every Tuesday and Thursday evening at five and then every Saturday morning at six.” Everyone nodded in agreement. “Nikki, I want you to explain the hand signals by Tuesday. Can you do that?” He asked me.
“Yup, captaino!” I shouted much more loudly then needed making everyone cringe. Even though it was ten everyone was still tired and sleepy.
“Alright, I guess we are all good here. See you for practice on Tuesday.” Russ said as he exited the lockers. I walked up to Potter and Black and stood in front of them, with my arms crossed.
“Let’s get this over with Potter, Black.” I said with a stiff nod to the door.
We started walking slowly. Potter was on my left and Black was on my right but a bit further away. “Okay, when we are about to start a game we are in a certain formation. Russ is in front of me, the other the chasers; you guys are on my sides. Behind you guys, are the beaters and behind me, is the keeper. When we leave the locker room, I get um, let’s say a feeling, and I will flash a sign to you guys, telling our game plan.” I show them my hand with my index and middle finger twisted together, which was the letter R in sign language. “This means Russ goes for the Quaffle and you two will twist in front of him clearing his path. Understand?” They both nodded so I continued. I held up one finger. “This means Russ goes for the Quaffle and you two will be at his flanks. Alright?” I asked again. They both nodded. I then held up two fingers. “This means, Potter, you’ll go after the Quaffle and Russ will be at your right and Black will fly underneath you and block anyone on your left. Okay?” Potter’s eyes blanked then focused again and nodded. I held up three fingers. “This is the same thing except you both will switch positions.” Then I pointed at myself. “That one means one of you will go underneath the Quaffle and one overhead. Russ will fly ahead and I will block all the chasers. You guys will decide who goes for the Quaffle then pass it to Russ if he is open. Any questions?”
“Yeah, what do you mean by feeling?” Potter asked curiously.
“It’s nothing you should concern yourself with. I am just amazing.” I commented back making them both sign, hoping they would back off. I didn’t really want them to know.
“How will Russ know the plan?” Black asked with a less then friendly voice.
“Russ is awesome like that.” I somewhat answered again.
“But that doesn’t…” Black started to say before I cut him off.
“It doesn’t matter as long as you understand what the signals mean then we are good. Any more questions about the signals or plans?” They didn’t say anything. “Good, now I will be drilling you until Tuesday with random quizzes. It would be in your best interest to answer them.” I told them with a stiff nodded as I walked away from them and headed towards Lily who was waiting by the end of the Quidditch pitch. I then remembered something and called out to them.
“Hey Potter, Black!” I called then lifted up two fingers.
“I go and Sirius and Russ block for me.” Potter called back. I nodded my head and turned back to Lily.
“Hey, Lily, what’s up?” I asked when I reached her.
“Hagrid invited us for lunch.” Lily said with a bright grin. “We haven’t seen him since the beginning of term and we are long overdue. I didn’t even see him when I was on Platform Duties.”
“Yeah I know, let’s go. Wait, did you bring something edible for us?” I asked with a concerned look. Hagrid means well, but he isn’t the best cook.
“Of course, here take this apple and eat it before we get there.” She said handing me a big red apple.
“Thanks.” I said as we started to walk. I took a bite and the juices from the apple dripped all over my hands and face, making Lily laugh. “Oh shut it.” I told her trying not the laugh at well.
“Sorry you’re just an idiot.” Lily said pushing me slightly.
“Whatever, and you’re not.” I remarked sarcastically.
“So why were you with Potter and Black?” Lily asked in a curious but disgusted tone.
“They are our lovely new chasers.” I retorted.
“Chasers are the ones who protect the goals right?” Lily asked mocking Marlene. A few nights ago she tried to show off her Quidditch knowledge but let’s just say she isn’t that interested or knowledgeable in the sport of Quidditch. I think she is just doing it for Potter, wait, I know she is doing it for Potter.
“Oh are you taking lessons from Marlene?” I asked with a laugh. Many people don’t know this but Lily is a heck of a Quidditch fanatic. She even is the announcer at the games.
“Oh yeah, I just want to learn about it, but I don’t know anyone who play Quidditch.” Lily said dumbly imitating Marlene’s voice perfectly.
We made it to Hagrid’s house which was on the grounds of Hogwarts near the Forbidden Forest. His house is a little shack and is surrounded by a pumpkin patch that Hagrid grows the giant pumpkins for the Halloween feast. The pumpkins were already growing pretty large.
We knocked on the old wooden door and we listened as Fang, Hagrid’s dog, started to bark loudly as he pawed at the door.
“Oh shut it, you mutt.” We could here Hagrid boom over Fang’s barking. He swung open the door and peered down at us. Hagrid is the grounds keeper of Hogwarts. He is a half giant half wizard man that is extremely tall and big around the middle section. He is like a teddy bear with his long messy black hair that covers his head and sometimes his face. He has black eyes but unlike Lebel’s unforgiving ones, Hagrid’s were warm and welcoming. They were so bright that you can see them peering out at you thirty yards away in complete darkness. Hagrid was holding Fang, his large bloodhound dog. “Why hello you two, finally come to visit me eh?” Hagrid boomed, moving aside for Lily and myself to enter.
“Well yeah it’s been a while and we have been pretty busy.” Lily said taking a seat at one of the chairs that surround the wooden table.
“I thought you two might have forgotten about me.” Hagrid laughed, closing the door and set Fang down, who ran straight for me. Fang loved me and I might have well as been his second owner. That dog is the best. He has a tough exterior like a dragon but a soft interior like a Flobberworm with a much more colorful personality.
When I was little, Sirius and I always wanted a dog. We would sneak out of his house at night and go to the pet store to see all the little puppies by the window. We agreed that when we were older he would get a girl dog and I would get a boy dog and they would have puppies for us to share. It was a silly idea especially now that we hate each other but I still love dogs, and that is something that isn’t going to change.
“Yeah Hagrid, we just happened to forget about our favorite half giant, wizarding grounds keeper at the school that teaches us magic in a unknown location.” I replied sarcastically, with a roll of my eyes. Lily laughed the mot because coming from a muggle background, it sounded ridiculous.
“Oh Nikki, you always were one for joking around.” Hagrid remarked beckoning me to sit down. I took a seat next to Lily and across from Hagrid, as Fang drooped his slobbery head onto my lap, with a smack of slobber against skin. “How have you two been? Not too much trouble right?” Hagrid asked directing that last question at me.
“It’s been fine Hagrid; actually Nikki hasn’t gotten into many fights this year. Well I guess it’s only been the first week back, but still she is doing pretty well.” Lily said with a laugh along with Hagrid while I just frowned, puffing my cheeks out unattractively, making them laugh more.
“Well, Nikki is a fighter, alright.” Hagrid boomed.
“Why yes I am! Everyone should be terrified of my amazing and mad skills.” I laughed.
“Oh Merlin, you have such a big ego. Just like your father.” Hagrid said smiling in reminiscence. “Oh him, young Charlus and Orion would get into so much trouble back in their day. I had to spend half their years, chasing them out of the forest. Much like their kids, James Potter and Sirius Black and even you, missy. Like father like son, or daughter, in your case.”
“Yeah I guess I inherited that gene for trouble making or wondering out of bounds.” I laughed sadly.
“Well would you guess like some, rock cakes? I have been working on the recipe.” Hagrid offered, changing the conversation for my benefit.
“No thanks Hagrid.” Lily said a little too quickly. “We just ate.”
“Sure ya did.” Hagrid said winking at me. “How’s that Potter been treating you, Lily?”
“Oh he is as annoying as ever!” Lily moaned, shaking her head.
“Look what you did, Hagrid. You got her started again. I just got her to stop talking about him before we came here.” I said in mock anger. “The way she complains about him almost makes me think she likes him or something. How strange would that be?”
“Merlin, I will never like that boy.” Lily declared with her chin up high and Hagrid and I shared a look.
“Anyways, how has life been for you Hagrid, those pumpkins are looking pretty big.” I commented distracting Lily.
“Oh yeah, those babies are for Halloween! Would you guy like a slice. I just bake a pie out of one of the smaller ones that won’t make the cut.” Hagrid offered.
“Oh please, I love pumpkin pie.” Lily said and I nodded my head eagerly.
“Oh right I shouldn’t have asked you, Nikki, you’ll eat anything.” Hagrid laughed making me frown, trying to hide my smile. “I’ll be back.” He said as he went to get the pie. I don’t eat everything. Remember those unwanted rock cakes?
We waited as he went into the kitchen. Suddenly Fang lifted his head up from my legs, a line of drool sticking on to me to his snout, and perked his ears. After a moment he ran to the back door that faces the Forbidden Forest and started to howl again. I jumped up and ran to see what he was barking at. I saw four figures creep along the edge of the forest. I could make them out as the Marauders. Oh, of course!
“Um, Hagrid? Hagrid!” I called from the door.
“What is it?” He called form the kitchen.
“You’ve got yourself some trespassers.” I told him.
“Not again.” I felt the floor shake as he raced to the back door and stick his head out. “Oh you four, get out of there now, and come here!” Hagrid called to them and then looked at me. “Your pie is on the table.”
I walked back to the table to see Lily with a confused look and two enormous pie slices. “Marauders.” I whispered as I sat down beside her and she nodded her head in understanding.
“Don’t make me chase you boys out of there!” Hagrid boomed as he ran out of the shack, shaking the floor as well as the table.
“Oh Merlin, they have no mercy.” Lily said taking a small bite out of the pie.
“Well Hagrid will get them; he always does, for the most part.” I said gravely, and then took a large spoonful of pie into my mouth. Mm, something good Hagrid can cook.
Fang started to bark after a little bit and Hagrid walked back in followed by the Marauders.
“Sorry ladies, but are one of you a prefect. Wait, why am I asking you Nikki? Lily, are you a prefect?” Hagrid asked as I puffed up my cheeks. Lily nodded her head. “Okay good, I need to take this to Professor McGonagall along with these four.”
“Um, no problem.” Lily said. I looked past Hagrid to see he had lassoed the four boys with a length of rope. They each had their hands bounded and were standing in a line like prisoners.
“I’ll wrap up those pies for you two.” He said with a laugh then turned on the four boys. “If you four even try on running away, I will chase you all the way through the castle if I have too.”
After wrapping up our pies, Hagrid said his good byes to us. Fang stood up on his hind legs and put both his paws on my shoulders, giving me a wet slobbery kiss on the face. “Oh thanks Fang. I needed a bath, but I’ll miss you too.” I remarked, kissing him on the nose then gently shoving the dog off my shoulders. Hagrid handed me the pies and Lily the slip of paper, along with a piece of rope that he had attached to the Marauders wrists. We exited the shack followed behind the four boys. I shared a look with Lily and sighed. Defiantly not how I wanted to spend my Saturday afternoon after Quidditch tryouts.
We started to walk up to the castle when Potter started to be the arrogant ass Lily hates. “Lily, I always wanted to be tied up by you, but not like this. Maybe we should try it again tonight?” Potter offered with a smirk.
Before Lily could respond I said, “Oh sorry Potter, maybe another night. Lily is going to be mine tonight.” I wiggled my eyebrows suggestively. Lily just looked over at me wide eyed. I gave her a smile but she rolled her eyes.
“Oh, I didn’t know you two went that way.” Black retorted.
“Only when your brother is unavailable.” I blurted out before I could stop myself. I cringed at the silence that followed.
Potter whistled a hollow sound. “Low blow.” He mumbled which didn’t make any sense but still made me feel bad for saying it. Why would Black care if I was in a relationship with his brother, which I am not.
“Whatever.” I indifferently shrugged.
“So is there any way I can tempt you to let us out?” Potter asked, directing his question to Lily and taking the awkwardness out of what I said.
“Hm, if you leave me alone and never talk to me again, I would consider it, but we all know that will never happen.” Lily retorted.
“I would never give up on you Lily Flower.” Potter responded. “All I have to wait for is you to find me irresistible.”
“Like that would ever happen.” Lily howled and I hooted in laughter along with Lupin and Black. Pettigrew was quiet.
“You’d have better luck with Marlene.” I offered.
“But Marlene isn’t Lily.” Lupin said. “And James won’t give up until it is Lily.”
“What a sad life.” I said as we walked through the Entrance Hall doors. We walked up the stair cases, many students stopping to watch as we walked through the castle, all the way until we reach Professor McGonagall’s door. I knocked attentively and we waited. McGonagall swung open the door and looked down at us. “We go you some prisoners, Minnie!” I exclaimed with a bright grin.
“Please Mrs. Redwood, it’s Professor McGonagall, and why are these boys tied up?” She retorted letting us in.
“Hagrid caught them wandering into the forbidden forest. Here is a note.” Lily said handing it to her.
McGonagall picked up the note and read it. She nodded her head and with a wave of her wand, the rope that had been tied on the boys hands, vanished. “Sit down all six of you.” She said.
“Six?” Lily asked confused.
“Yes, I need you to recount the events, since Hagrid was vague.” She said. “So what happened?” McGonagall’s gaze reached mine. We sat down on the six chairs the lined up in front of McGonagall’s desk.
“We were sitting and having a discussion with Hagrid when his dog Fang, do you know him, his is a big blood hound, anyways, Fang started to bark like crazy so Hagrid went to see what was happening and he saw the boys going into the forest. He chased them out and instructed us to take them to you.” I informed in a very business-like tone. McGonagall looked at Lily for conformation and Lily nodded. Wow, do you really not trust me? What have I ever done… wait never mind.
“Why were you four going into the forest?” McGonagall barked.
“We thought we saw someone in there?” Black offered only to meet McGonagall’s glare.
“What really happened was,” Potter said as he stood up and started pacing, “we saw these lovely flowers and I thought we must pick them for our favorite women in the world.”
“And who might those be?” McGonagall asked amused, trying to hide her smile.
“Well mine is my Lily Flower here, Remus’ is for Poppy for all the care she does for him, Peter’s is for you of course, his favorite teacher, and Sirius’ is for his favorite girl in the world, Nikki.” Potter said with so much confidence I could have almost believe that he was serious.
“Really?” McGonagall challenged, crossing her arms with her eyebrows raised. She glanced over at Black to see his reaction to this new news.
“I know it sounds silly, but we really are gentlemen.” Black said standing up and coming behind my chair. James mimicked the act to Lily. I felt a pair of hands touch my shoulders and run up and down my arm, in a supposedly calming and affectionate way. Gross! In my ear Black whispered, “I will owe you so much if you do this for me.” Again I could have sworn his lips grazed the side of my face and i shivered.
Decided I might need a favor done from the Marauders someday as much as I hate them, I complied, “Awh really, for me? You shouldn’t have.” I cooed and batted my eyelashes. Out of the corner of my eye I saw Lily as well as McGonagall jump and stare down at us.
“Only for the best.” Black responded pressing his forehead against mine and kissed the top of my nose. He stared down into my eyes searching for if he went too far. His stormy eyes made me shiver. My stomach tightened and I felt sick. My head hurt slightly and I immediately regretted this decision. He even makes me sick for him to be so close. “Now Minnie, you can see our intentions were good. We only wanted to treat our ladies.” He told McGonagall but didn’t remove himself from me. He kissed my nose again and I closed my eyes. Not out of comfort but out of the effort not to throw up.
“One night’s detention will be suitable.” McGonagall barked out. “I must say though it would have been more if I wasn’t so impressed with Mr. Black’s and Mrs. Redwood’s acting and cooperation. Now off before I changed my mind.”
I quickly moved out of Black’s reach and picked up the pie plates and handed them to Lily. She looked at me concerned and I guess I looked like I was going to be sick, which I was at least feeling like. I closed my eyes and breathed in and out before exited the room.
We all walked out of McGonagall’s room and once the door had closed, they all turned their attention towards me. I pressed my forehead against the cool castle stone wall and breathed steadily. In and out, in and out. What is going on with me? My stomach finally started to settle down and my breathing became normal again but my head hurt.
“Well, I’ll get back to you on our little proposition. Right now I feel like I am going to be sick.” I commented before walking off to the common room with Lily in tow.
“Are you sure you’re going to be okay?” Lupin asked from behind us.
“Yeah, yeah, just leave me alone.” I called back, shaking my head but stopped when it started to make me dizzy. “Oh crap, wait a second.” I told Lily as I turned around again. I pointed to myself and waited.
“What?” Potter asked.
“Quidditch!” I called back to him.
“Oh! You block the chasers.” Black called.
“Excellent.” I remarked sarcastically. I turned back to Lily and we walked back off together.
“What proposition?” Lily asked as we walked into our dorm room. Mary was sitting on the bed with Miranda and they were watching me closely.
“If I helped Black out he said he would owe me, well I have to think what I want him to owe me now, don’t I. I wouldn’t mind a little more of that lip action.” I said loudly to make sure Miranda heard as I winked at Lily. Even if it was far from the truth, I would do anything to piss her off. “Excuse me; I need to go to the bathroom.”
I walked into the bathroom and locked the door behind me. I turned the sink on and let out a long sign. I looked into the mirror and I looked green. My eyes were twitchy and water and my dark circles were even more profound than normal. I looked sick and I felt like it as well. I splashed some water into my face and shook my hair so it covered my view of the mirror. Merlin I feel horrible.
I walked back out to see Lily watching me attentively like I might collapse or something. I laughed sounding, like my normal self again and feeling a ton better. Lily looked relieved and I felt great. I sat down on my bed next to Lily and listened to Miranda and Mary gossip. It’s a favorite pass time of Lily and mine.
“Oh I was talking to Clara and she was in tears today.” Mary whispered.
“Why? She is the one dating Remus Lupin right?” Miranda asked quietly.
“Not anymore, he dumped her.” Mary said sadly. At this I jumped up excitedly. They both looked at me shocked.
“Lily, let’s go now!” I said running out the dorm with Lily walking slowly behind me. I sat down on one of the plush chairs, jumping up and down, and Lily sat across from me. “Operation Sapphire Lupin is in session!” I exclaimed. “First we need to befriend it.”
“Him.” Lily corrected.
“Whatever, him. Then we need to see if he is interested in Saph. The last step is manning them both up so one will ask the other out.” I nodded confidently as if it were obvious.
“You really think that’s going to work?” Lily asked suspiciously.
“Yeah? Why wouldn’t it?” I asked confused. Out of all my plans ever, this one has made the most sense.
“Your plans are kind of crazy.” Lily reasoned with me.
“Not this one!” I exclaimed. The sickness that I felt earlier must have Disapparated, because I feel way better than I had before whatever Black did to me. “Come on, let’s go to dinner.” I offered. “We have time anyways.”
We walked down to the Great Hall and started to fill up our plates. Half way through the meal, the Great Hall doors slammed open and everyone went silent. Hagrid burst in and smoke was swirling around him. The smell of burning fabric and hair filled the hall making some people gag.
“James Potter, Sirius Black!” Hagrid bellowed out making all the tables vibrate and some of the glasses fall over.
Dumbledore stood up and was at Hagrid’s side in an instant. “What is it, Hagrid?”
“Those boy set up fireworks in the Forest and it lit my roof on fire. Luckily I was able to put it out.” Hagrid explained, scanning the hall. I felt two hands slide down my sides. I turned to see the four Marauders crouched behind me. The owner of the hands belonged to Black. What is with him and touching me lately!
“Do not touch me.” I growled.
“Why? Does it make you dizzy?” He asked smirking, “I have that effect on people, and don’t you worry. Besides we all know how you feel.”
I narrowed my eyes at him but he didn’t remove his hands. How did he go from hating me this morning to flirting with me this afternoon? “Are you hitting on me?” I finally asked in frustration, hoping he would stop before I felt sick again and threw up.
“Ha! You wish, Redwood.” He said as he slowly sliding his hands down my sides and onto my thighs where he started to draw imaginary circles. I dug my hands into his arms and ripped them off as I snapped around.
“This is sexual harassment and I will report it if I have the smallest chance of getting you expelled. One day you’ll end up in Azkaban and I will laugh!” I snarled.
He kept his hands to himself but looked hurt for a second. “Right, I forgot you’re the property of my Death Eater brother.” He spat out with disgust.
“One, I am not anyone’s property, two I am not Regulus’ and three you don’t have any clam to me.” I hissed. I then stood up. “I believe you’re looking for these four?” I asked toward Dumbledore and Hagrid with a wide grin.
“Ah yes, will you five please come to my office?” Dumbledore asked as he started to leave.
“Me?” I asked confused. He nodded his head and left. I looked at the Marauders in hatred but got up and walked with them out of the Hall. I gave one last fleeting look to Lily who just shrugged as confused as I. Hagrid was waiting there for me, outside the hall. “Hello.” I said displeased by the arrangements.
“I’ll let him know you had nothing to do with it.” Hagrid assured me.
“Thank you. Is your house alright?” I asked looking up which was a pain since he was extra tall and I was about the size of a second year.
“Oh yeah, I caught it in time.” He said glaring over my shoulder at the Marauders.
“Look, Mr. Hagrid, we didn’t mean it to do any damage.” Lupin said trying to reason with him.
“It’s fine; you guys just need a lesson.” He said strictly before turning his attention back to me. “Mr. Hagrid, I like it.” He grinned.
We made it to the two gargoyles that block the entrance to Dumbledore’s office.
“You wouldn’t happen to know the password would you?” Hagrid asked.
“Oh! Let me.” I said walking in front of Hagrid. “Blood Lollipops, Chocolate Frogs, Licorice Wands, Sugar Quills, Fizzing…” I rambled as the statues sprung aside at ‘sugar quills.’ I jumped onto the moving stairs along with everyone else. When we reached the top, before Hagrid could knock on the door, Dumbledore called with in.
“Come in.” We came inside his circular office. I had been in here many times before. Portraits of old headmasters were on the walls of the office. Dumbledore has a big wooden desk with many shine contraptions on it and others tables in his office, which spin and blink. A cabinet in the back held his Pensieve that I have been able to use only twice before. A perch was in his office as well that held his Phoenix, Faux. In front of his desk were three arm chairs. “Take a seat.” He instructed. We all looked at each other except for Pettigrew that just took a seat. Lupin pushed me forward and I sat down in the middle one and next to me, Lupin took the other chair. Potter stood behind Lupin’s chair and Black behind mine. Hagrid stood in between my chair and Pettigrew’s. “Now Hagrid, please tell us all what happened.”
“Well you see, Professor Dumbledore sir, I found these four boys in the forest and they were turned in to Professor McGonagall. I was doing the dishes when fireworks went off. I went outside to see my house on fire. I then eh put it out.”
“Boys did you put fireworks in the forest?’ Dumbledore asked.
“Yeah, but we didn’t mean to do any damage.” Potter said.
“Whether you did on purpose or not, is not the point. The point is that you still disobeyed my rules, and along with McGonagall’s detention, you will spend two detentions fixing Hagrid’s roof.”
“Yes sir.” The four said in unison.
“Now Hagrid you may go home, and boys wait outside the door. I have to talk to Mrs. Redwood here for a second, and then you can all walk back to the commons together.” Dumbledore said. Hagrid left and so did the Marauders, but not without Black brushing my shoulders with the tips of his fingers making goosebumps appear all over. Once they were outside and the door was close, Dumbledore spoke again. “How are you doing?”
“I’m doing fine sir.” I said back with sigh.
“Good, good. Now, I just want to be checking in on you, is all well? How is your physical state? Nothing is aching right?” He asked with his eyes searching me for any hint of emotion. This was an odd question from him but I ignored it.
“Everything is fine.” I mumble as I always do during these discussions. I rather not talk about my personal issues with my Headmaster as he always insists on.
“If you ever have an issue please talk to me.” Dumbledore said as if reading my mind.
“Okay.” I mumbled again.
“Your parents left something in my possession, as many people do, and I think you should have it now.” Dumbledore said as he opened one of the drawers of his desk. He pulled out three thick leather bounded books. “These are your father’s journals from his fourth year and until your first birthday.”
I looked at the books, that laid in front of me, but made no move to retrieve them. I reached up for my locket it and clutched it in my fist. “So I get to keep them?” I asked in an uncertain voice.
“You may do whatever you want with them as they are yours.” Dumbledore said giving me a smile as I reached for the books. “Now you better run off. It is getting late.” I got up, carrying the books in one hand and clinging onto my locket with the other. I opened the door and looked back at Dumbledore who was now reading the Daily Prophet.
Standing outside was the Marauders. I walked out and closed the door behind me and continued down the stairs leaving them behind. “Wait up!” Lupin called from behind but I kept moving forward. I just stepped into the main hallway when they stopped in front of me.
“What did Dumbledore want?” Potter asked.
“It’s none of your business.” I hissed. I didn’t want to share this with anyone yet, especially the Marauders.
“Where did you get those books then?” Lupin asked in an annoying tone.
“It. Is. None. Of. Your. Business.” I growled. Why won’t they leave me alone!
“Fine, just calm down.” Potter announced and grabbed my shoulder. With one hand balancing my book, I used the other to grab Potter’s hand and twist it until he had let go of me. Satisfied I walked away up to the common room and to my dorm. Once inside I changed and climbed into bed without a word to my dorm mates.
With my wand lite and clamped in my mouth, I opened the first journal and a picture fell out.
It was of three boys and it was taken by the Black Lake with Hogwarts in the background. The middle one I could tell was my father by his looks. He has black hair and stunning blue eyes that shone through the hair that covered them. He had the same grin as me and was wearing Slytherin robes. He had his arms around two other boys.
I knew the left one was Orion Black, Sirius and Regulus’ dad. He looked just like Sirius. They had the same messy black hair and stormy grey eyes. The only difference in the two was Orion was in Slytherin and not Gryffindor, plus Orion was friend with a Redwood. I guess Regulus adopted those features.
On my dad’s right was my guess, Charlus Potter. The boy had messy dark brown hair and hazel eyes covered by round rimmed glasses. He looked pretty much like James Potter. He was about the same size as Orion, making my father the tallest one there, which is a wonder since I’m the shortest person in my year. The boy on the right was the only one wearing Gryffindor robes.
I flipped over the picture and in handwriting much like mine it said, Orion, Ares, and Charlus in our 5th year by the Black Lake. Yay! Another Chapter done! Okay i know this sounds a bit needy and all but i would really apperciate your reviews. It would just make my day! Anyways, i really want to know what you think about the chapter and how everything is falling into place.
And a question to the readers who get this far!: What do you think is happening to Nikki (When she feels sick). Trust me there is an actual reason, keep an eye out for those hint ;)
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