First steps into chaos (1st year)
September 2nd, 1971
“Wake up! We’re going to be late for class!”
“Merlin, Lupin, it’s six in the morning. The classes won’t start for at least two hours,” Sirius growled and covered his head with his pillow.
“Peter wants to grab something to eat,” said Remus, already pacing back and forth hurriedly to find his books. He bent down and looked under his bed. “And besides, I don’t want to be running late on our first day.”
“You’re insufferable, has anyone ever told you before?”
“No, but thank God, I have you to remind me,” Remus said, moving closer to Sirius’ bed. “Now, get up.” He tried to grab the covers off Sirius.
Sirius groaned loudly, tossed his blanket, and sat upright on the edge of his bed. “I swear to all things holly, Lupin, if you keep waking us up like this for the rest of the school year, I’m gonna hex you.”
“Well, won’t you need to attend a few classes before you learn how?”
“No, I’m actually quite accustomed to a few nice hexes,” Sirius said.
Remus rolled his eyes and Sirius dragged himself over to James’ bed. He knelt near its edge.
“Good morning. Time to rise and shine, sunshine,” he whispered in his ear. James made a muffled sound and rolled over. Sirius shoved him fiercely. “Potter, wake the hell up, you groggy troll!”
“Sirius, it’s six in the morning. Sod off,” said James.
Sirius raised an eyebrow at Remus. See?
Remus moved closer. “James, breakfast. Great Hall. Now,” he said firmly.
“What if I don’t want to?” James mumbled half-asleep.
“Don’t be such a child. We’re going to have breakfast and then head for Transfiguration.”
“First of all, I am a child. And you are not my bloody mother.”
Sirius placed his fingers on his temples. “Dude, you’re seriously giving me a migraine right now. Just get up already, I can’t deal with Remus being this energetic on my own.”
“Hey!”
“Fine.” James reluctantly stood up with a defeated expression and rubbed his eyes. He scanned the room. “Where’s Peter?”
“Waiting in the common room. You, insensitive pricks, are making the poor guy starve himself,” said Remus.
“Well, I’m not so sure about that,” Sirius said. Remus hit him with a book. “Oi! What was that about?” Sirius demanded, rubbing the back of his head.
Remus glared at him. “That was for being mean, besides being a pain in the ass this early in the morning.”
“Oh, so it’s early, then?”
Remus sighed. “I’ll go wait with Peter. Don’t be late.”
James and Sirius dressed up in their robes with slow, tired movements. They met Remus and Peter in the common room and headed for the Great Hall. It was nearly empty, something Sirius didn’t miss to point out, earning him a not-so-polite remark from Remus. They sat at Gryffindor’s table and piled their plates with food. Remus and Peter talked about their classes while the others struggled not to fall asleep over their plates. The Great Hall gradually filled with more students and the boys finished their breakfast before heading for their first class.
The castle seemed like a maze. It had about a hundred staircases, each moving and changing its structure and many enchanted doors. Thousands of portraits covered the walls, their figures animated, greeting the students and moving from one portrait to another. After what seemed to be an eternity, the boys finally reached the Transfiguration class. Some classes were common for all the first-years regardless of their Houses while others were held for each House separately. Today, the Gryffindors were attending Transfiguration with the Ravenclaws.
Professor McGonagall was nowhere to be seen. A grey Maine Coon cat was sitting on her desk and her large green eyes, fixed on the students, were glistening with intelligence. Once everyone had settled, the cat hopped off the desk and instantly turned into McGonagall, dressed in dark emerald robes, her hair tightly pulled back. The students exclaimed in surprise.
“Good morning, everyone,” Professor McGonagall began. “In this class, I will be teaching you Transfiguration. It is one of the basic courses in your curriculum, so your presence is mandatory.” She glanced around at her students with a serious expression. “Together, we will explore all the possibilities of this type of magic and the course will be advanced with each year until you graduate. Now, as this is your first encounter with my course, I will start by pointing out a few basic principles.”
Remus took his textbook out of his bag and started writing everything down.
“There are four types of Transfiguration: Transformation, Untransfiguration, Vanishment, and Conjuration. Transformation involves changing an object into another or altering its form. It can be further divided into different categories such as switching spells, which includes changing the properties of an object, animating inanimate objects, changing one species to another, and human transfiguration—like the one you just witnessed with me turning into a cat and back to human again.”
Professor McGonagall approached her desk and took a matchstick in her hands. With a flick of her wand, the matchstick turned into a large needle.
“Untransfiguration is the process of reversing a transformation, bringing an object back to its original form,” she continued, waving her wand once more and the needle transformed back to a matchstick. “Vanishment involves making objects disappear. Lastly, Conjuration is the creation of objects out of thin air. Vanishment and Conjuration are generally more advanced than simple transformations and due to their high complexity, they are typically taught in the later years.”
Peter was struggling to write everything down while trying to process the information. Professor McGonagall leaned on her desk and let go of the matchstick. “Before we begin, I must inform you about some rules and laws of Transfiguration. Is anyone familiar with Gamp’s Law of Elemental?”
Remus eagerly raised his hand.
“Yes, Mr Lupin.”
“Gamp’s Law is a fundamental principle in Transfiguration that sets out certain boundaries on what can be transfigured,” said Remus.
“That’s correct,” said Professor McGonagall. “Could you please provide some information on these limitations?”
Remus nodded. “There are five principal exceptions: food, money, love, life, and knowledge. Food can be summoned, multiplied or enlarged if it already exists, but not created from nothing. Currency cannot be conjured out of thin air, as this would evoke an economic crisis like in 1642 during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. Love or any emotional connections cannot be created or manipulated through Transfiguration because that would take away someone’s free will and right to consent. Creating life from nothing is also impossible. While animals and plants can be transfigured or animated, creating life itself is impossible. And it’s practically impossible to conjure knowledge or information as well. They simply must be learned.”
Sirius crossed his arms on his desk and buried his head in them. Unbelievable, he muttered.
Professor slightly raised her chin with pride. “Excellent. Twenty-five points to Gryffindor,” she said. “As you can all understand, Transfiguration is much more than just manipulating the form of things. It touches on various ethical dilemmas concerning maintaining a balance and preventing any misuse of magic. Understanding these limitations through Gamp’s Law of Elemental is crucial for responsible practice.” She paced near the front row of the students, tapping her wand into her palm. “Now, everyone, please take out your books and we will begin with a simple transformation.” She approached the desk and grabbed a book. “With a precise flick of your wands towards your target, you will cast a ‘Snufflifors’ to turn the books into mice. The incantation is the name of the spell.” She moved her wand with a sharp flick of her wrist and the book turned into a small white rodent.
Everyone fell to work. Remus tried several times to cast the spell but his book didn’t seem to cooperate. Frustration crossed his face. He had never hated a book until that moment. James muttered the incantation, feeling quite unsure, but his book instantly transformed into a mouse.
“How did you do it?” Remus demanded.
“What’s wrong Lupin?” Sirius said. “You’re only good in theory?”
“Oh, sod off,” said Remus. “This is the first time I even use a wand.”
“Guys, I think something’s wrong with my wand,” Peter muttered, pointing at his book. It was still the same, apart from a large snout with whiskers at the edge of its cover. The others tried to hold back their laughter. Remus tried again and eventually managed the transformation. He shot Sirius a smug smile and Sirius returned it by rolling his eyes.
“All right, everyone. Now, before class is over, you will transform the book back to its original form. The counter-spell is Reparifarge,” Professor said and with a simple wave, the white rodent disappeared from her hands. The students cast the spell and all the mice gradually returned to books.
“That will be all for today,” said Professor. “You are dismissed.”
The boys gathered their belongings and stood up, approaching the door.
“Mr Black,” McGonagall called. Sirius turned around. She eyed him with an unreadable expression. “I believe your choice of clothing is quite unfit for this weather,” she said, motioning with her eyes to his sweater beneath his robes. “It is rather hot, don’t you think?”
The others made choked sounds and covered their mouths. Sirius felt himself blushing violently. A small smirk appeared on McGonagall’s lips, and she requested their departure with a dismissive gesture. “Off you go, now.”
“What’s next?” James asked.
“Eh, Herbology, I think,” said Peter.
“Oh, joy. We’re gonna play housewives,” said Sirius.
“Oi! I find Herbology very calming, actually,” said Peter.
Sirius shot him a sideways glance. “Of course you do.”
Peter slightly lowered his head, suddenly feeling ashamed, but James put an arm around him.
“Don’t worry Pete,” he said. “Sirius doesn’t like Herbology, because it requires caring for something living, besides himself.”
“You’re just jealous of my exquisite appearance,” Sirius said. “Besides, self-love is a form of self-care.” He rubbed his chin. “Or is it the opposite?”
“Just try not to suffocate all the plants in the greenhouse with your ego,” said Remus, and the others laughed.
The boys reached the school grounds. The greenhouses were located close to the edge of the Forbidden Forest and were easily accessible from the main building. They walked over the smallest greenhouse, typically used for first-years. The other two, seemingly larger, were used for older students as they contained more hazardous plants.
Stepping inside, the greenhouse had long tables and shelves holding potted plants, gardening tools, and growth potions. Everything felt humid and warm because of the large glass panels. There was a serene silence apart from rustling leaves and trickling water, that made Peter smile with a delightful expression. Sirius glanced around in sheer boredom.
“Good morning, students!”
The teacher appeared. She had a round face, smudged with dirt on her right cheek, and brown hair. A few strands had escaped her hat, some leaves caught in them. “I am Professor Pomona Sprout and I’ll be teaching you Herbology. Please, put on your protective gear and we’ll go through the safety protocol.”
The students reached for their gear: thick protective gloves, goggles, and aprons with several pockets.
“Is everyone ready?” Pomona stared at her fully dressed in-gear students. “Brilliant! I was looking forward to this moment all summer!” She bounced, somehow ignoring that all of them seemed somewhat concerned with her over-energetic spirit.
Sirius slowly turned his head to James and made circles with his index finger near his temple.
“Together we learn the proper handling techniques to avoid triggering defensive mechanisms while tending to the plants,” Pomona continued. “You also have to remember how to use the right tools, such as trowels and pruning shears, but don’t you worry, we’ll learn all that throughout the year as the lessons unfold. The most important thing for you is to always treat plants with respect and care and understand that they are living organisms just like you with unique needs and properties.”
“Professor, were you a Hufflepuff?” Walden Mcnair from Slytherin interrupted with a smug smirk.
Pomona didn’t waver. “I was, actually. But did I catch a mocking tone in your question, Mr Mcnair?”
“No, of course—”
“Five points from Slytherin.”
Sirius grinned, suddenly finding the class interesting.
“As I was saying, caring for plants will help you acknowledge any signs of distress. If a plant becomes stressed and agitated it can provoke injuries. In this case, alert me immediately and first aid will be provided.” Some students glanced around with alert but Pomona, sensing their worry, waved off their concerns. “But everything is going to be just fine! Now, we’ll start easy on our first day by trying to identify some plants I’ve gathered for you.” She put some pots on the table, lining them up carefully.
Remus started to feel inexplicable dizziness taking hold of him.
“This right here is knotgrass,” she said as she gestured towards the first pot. “It is used in the Polyjuice Potion which, as you’ll learn in the Potion’s class, allows the drinker to take on another person’s physical appearance. And does anyone know what this is?” She pointed at a plant with slender, delicate stems. “Yes, Mr Snape.”
Severus cleared his throat. “Fluxweed,” he said with confidence. Lily turned her head to face him and their eyes met briefly before he quickly looked away.
Pomona clapped her hands. “That’s correct! Five points to Slytherin. Fluxweed is another ingredient of the Polyjuice potion and it must be harvested at the right time for maximum potency. It is particularly effective when picked at the full moon.”
Remus’ dizziness only got worse at the mention of the full moon. A tightening sensation gripped his chest like an invisible hand squeezing his heart and his breathing became shallow and rapid.
James looked at him with worry. “You okay?”
No. Something was seriously wrong and Remus felt as if he was about to be sick but didn’t know why. He just nodded. “Must be something I ate,” he said.
Pomona moved over to show two other pots. One plant had silvery-green leaves covered in fine, white hairs while the other was tall and spindly with pink star-shaped flowers.
“I’ll give you a hint for these two. They are used in the same potion. Has anyone heard of the Draught of Living Death?’”
Lily instantly raised her hand.
“Please, Miss Evans,” Pomona said.
“The Draught of Living Death is an extremely powerful potion that makes someone fall into deathlike slumber. It is said that an old hag once used it to poison a beautiful princess and a wizard prince saved her by providing her the antidote. He put it on his lips and kissed her to wake her up. This story is common to Muggles as the tale of Snow White.”
Some Slytherins hissed and Lily could have sworn she heard someone muttering ‘Mudblood’.
“Excellent job, Miss Evans! I’m sure you will excel in Potions. Now, can you please name these plants?”
“The one to the right,” Lily pointed to the pot, “is wormwood. And the other next to it is asphodel. It’s a type of lily.”
“That’s correct! Ten points to Gryffindor!”
Sirius smirked. “I think we found your soulmate,” he whispered to Remus.
Remus’ kept panicking in silence. The sounds around him seemed to blur into a disorienting cacophony and beads of sweat formed on his forehead. His palms felt clammy inside the pockets of his robes and he looked paler than usual.
Sirius frowned as he looked at him. “Hey, what’s wrong?”
“I—”
“Two more and I promise that will be all for today!” Pomona said. She approached the table and tried to raise a large pot from the ground, bringing it closer to the students. The plant was tall, up to a meter in height, with dark green leaves and deep purple flowers. “This one is—”
Remus’ eyes widened in horror. “Aconite,” he exclaimed.
“That’s right, Mr Lupin! However, I would appreciate it if you raised your hand the next time. Aconite or Monkshood, widely known as Wolfsbane, is used in the Wolfsbane Potion, which allows werewolves to retain their human mind during a full moon. It can be proven as highly toxic if ingested or inhaled.”
Time seemed to slow down but Remus’ heart raced as if trying to keep up with an unseen threat. With no warning, a rising dread started tightening his throat and making his limbs go heavy. Desperate to escape, he glanced around, searching for the exit. He wanted to move but it felt like his legs had stuck on the ground, growing roots. He clenched his robes just above his heart and collapsed, unable to stand any longer.
“Remus!” Sirius exclaimed and his hands shot out to hold him up.
James looked around in distress. “Professor! We’ve got a problem.”
Pomona quickly pushed through the students. She knelt down and touched Remus’ forehead. “Oh, dear Helga, he’s burning. You should take him to the infirmary. Please, hurry up!”
The boys left the greenhouse with no hesitation. Remus was semi-conscious and struggled to walk so James and Sirius supported him by his arms. Peter followed close behind them, carrying Remus’ schoolbag. As they distanced themselves from the greenhouse, Remus fell to his knees and started vomiting.
“Ew, gross,” Peter mumbled and Sirius shot him a sharp glance.
James hesitantly approached Remus and patted his back. “What happened?”
“I don’t know,” Remus lied. “I told you. It must be something I ate at breakfast.”
Sirius’ eyes narrowed with suspicion. “We all ate the same things,” he said.
“Then he must have an allergy,” Peter suggested with a shrug but Sirius kept examining Remus thoroughly.
“Feel any better?” James asked as he helped Remus to his feet. “Do you still want us to take you to the infirmary?”
“No, it’s okay, I’ll go on my own. You should return to class.”
“Hell to the no,” Sirius said, “This was the right opportunity to leave before I’d die from ennui.”
“Sirius—”
“No,” Sirius said firmly. “James and Peter will go back to their green fairytale, and I’ll escort you to the infirmary. Right, guys?”
“Sirius is right,” said James. “You seemed awfully sick just a moment ago. You shouldn’t be walking alone.”
Remus groaned. “Fine.”
“Oh, don’t sulk,” said Sirius. “James will keep staring at Evans with his mouth open like an idiot—”
“I wasn’t staring!”
“Peter can keep practising becoming a housewife—”
“Oi!”
“—and you’ll be blessed with my presence all the way up to the infirmary. Sounds like a plan?”
“Let’s go,” Remus muttered, already walking away towards the castle.
“Brilliant. Guys, we’ll meet you after class,” said Sirius.
Sirius and Remus kept walking in silence. Remus could feel Sirius’ prying eyes on him and tried his best to avoid him, not feeling comfortable with lying to any of them. But he couldn’t just tell them the truth. They wouldn’t understand. They would be horrified and realise what he truly was. A monster.
They reached the castle and pushed the doors open, stepping inside. Sirius stared intently at a specific scar on Remus’ collarbone. It was long and deep and seemed to have been recently sustained. His eyes then flickered to Remus’ face and he watched closely the rest of the faded marks, blending with his freckles.
“Your scars,” Sirius began.
Remus felt his blood running cold but tried to maintain a casual air. “What about them?”
“How did you get ‘em?”
“There was an accident,” Remus replied vaguely, avoiding Sirius’ eyes.
“Right. And did this accident involve sharp glass or razors?”
Remus’ frustration flared. He didn’t like to be questioned about his scars. “You could say that,” he said, picking up his speed to move past Sirius.
“C’mon Remus, what really happened?” Sirius pressed as he tried to catch up with him.
Remus stopped walking and finally faced Sirius with a flat expression. “I’ll tell you if you tell me why your right hand was bloody and bruised on our first day on the train,” he challenged.
Sirius halted for a second, taken aback. “What?”
“Oh, you think we didn’t notice? We did, but I didn’t really care and James was just too polite to ask.”
Sirius shrugged, feigning indifference. “I tripped and fell over it,” he said, his tone suddenly guarded.
Remus’ eyes narrowed. He knew that Sirius was lying but he didn’t care to learn the truth as long as Sirius stayed out of his damn business. “Right. How about this? You leave my scars alone and I won’t keep asking you about your hand.”
“Fine,” Sirius said stubbornly.
They started walking again in silence until they reached the Grand Staircase. The hospital wing was on the first floor so they climbed the stairs and moved through the hallway.
“Hello?” Sirius called in the empty room once they stepped inside the infirmary.
Madam Poppy Pomfrey, the school nurse, appeared from behind a curtain with a friendly smile, her brown hair put in a practical bun.
“Oh, hello there. How can I help you?”
“I think the genius here had food poisoning,” said Sirius, gesturing towards Remus. “Or an allergy, I don’t really know.”
Madam Pomfrey eyed Remus with gentle curiosity. “Did he now?” She fished her medical equipment from the pocket of her perfectly ironed, white apron. “Well, then, please sit and I will examine you right away.”
Remus moved to sit at the edge of a bed and Sirius was about to sit beside him.
“Oh, no, not you Mr Black,” said Madam Pomfrey. “I’m afraid you’ll have to wait outside.”
“Why?” Sirius asked more harshly than he intended.
“I’m sorry darling but it’s our policy to prevent bacteria from spreading in the wing.”
“Sirius, it’s okay. Go find the others and I’ll meet you later at the Great Hall,” said Remus.
“I’ll be waiting for you outside,” Sirius replied shortly. He unwillingly moved towards the exit. Remus sighed.
“He cares about you,” Pomfrey observed with a gentle smile as she approached Remus.
Remus felt heat rising to his cheeks. “He barely even knows me.”
“Well yes, but he doesn’t want to leave your side. You’re lucky you’ve already found such loyal friends,” she said. She placed her stethoscope above his heart. “Your heartbeat is even. But you’re sweaty. Were you having a physical activity or did your temperature rise before?”
“Madam Sprout said I was burning.”
“Oh, so you had Herbology,” Madam Pomfrey said, resting her stethoscope on the bed. “Tell me, sweet boy, did you come close to aconite?”
Remus choked on his breath. “How do you—”
Her eyes twinkled behind her oval, wire-rimmed glasses. They were a warm brown colour like freshly brewed coffee. “Professor Dumbledore has informed me of your condition. You shouldn’t contact aconite in any way. It’s toxic for werewolves,” she whispered to secure the privacy of their conversation despite being the only people in the hospital wing. Remus felt his anxiety rising but Madame Pomfrey gently stroked his messy curls. “Don’t worry, darling. There are only three people that are aware of your secret. Professor McGonagall, Professor Dumbledore, and me.”
“Professor McGonagall knows too?” Remus asked panicked.
She chuckled. “Well, it was necessary, you see. She is responsible for the Gryffindor House and had to be informed about your absence during the full moon. But I’ll leave Professor Dumbledore to explain the procedure when the time comes.” She stood up. “Now, there isn’t anything else I can do for you. You are perfectly fine. I will inform Pomona to stop bringing wolfsbane into your classes but don’t you worry, I won’t betray our little secret,” she whispered as she brought a finger to her lips.
Remus nodded slowly and he started to feel slightly relieved.
Madam Pomfrey gave him a conspirational smile. “Tell Mr Black not to worry as well. You’re just lactose intolerant.”
Remus smirked. “Thank you,” he whispered as he rose to his feet.
“No need to. I will see you again, soon.”
She lightly touched his shoulder and returned to her office. Remus exited the hospital wing. He found Sirius casually leaning against the wall. He was fidgeting his wand with his fingers and waiting for Remus as he had promised. Remus felt his heart skip a beat though he didn’t really understand why. When Sirius saw him, he quickly moved away from the wall and walked over to him.
“So?”
“I’ll live,” Remus said.
Sirius raised an eyebrow. “Did she tell you what made you redecorate the place with your breakfast?”
Remus laughed shortly. “I’m lactose intolerant,” he said.
This wasn’t what Sirius had expected to hear. He eyed Remus half-convinced. “Are you serious right now?”
“No, you’re Sirius.” He grinned. “I’m Remus.”
Sirius stared at him for a few seconds. He then shook his head, the faintest of grins appearing in the corners of his mouth. “You’re impossible, Remus Lupin.”
“And also insufferable,” said Remus. There was a playful glint in his eyes. “Don’t you forget it.”
They held each other’s gaze for a moment longer. Finally, Sirius awkwardly cleared his throat and waved at him. “C’mon, the others will be waiting for us.”
September 5th, 1971
The first-year Gryffindors marched down to the grassy area by the Quidditch pitch and gathered around the brooms set in two neat rows. James’ eyes lit up as he spotted them. He had been waiting for this moment since he received his Hogwarts letter. Flying was his natural gift, practically the first thing he’d mastered as a kid. He glanced over at Sirius, who was smirking at the sight of the old, battered brooms. They were nothing like the sleek models in his family’s broom shed.
“Look at these relics,” Sirius whispered to James, giving one of the broomsticks a playful nudge with his foot. “My mother wouldn’t even let these touch the floor of her house.”
James grinned. “Bet we’ll still beat everyone though.”
Peter stood nervously beside them. He clutched his robes tightly as the thought of leaving solid ground made his stomach flip.
“What if I fall? What if the broom doesn’t work? What if—”
“You won’t fall,” said James. “It’s easy once you get the hang of it.”
“And if you do fall, just try to aim for something soft,” said Sirius.
Peter didn’t seem comforted by this advice but before he could protest, the flying instructor, Rolanda Hooch, came forward. She was tall with short-cropped, spiky black hair, and a stern expression that could cut through the bravest students. Behind her, the Hufflepuff first-years started lining up beside the Gryffindors.
“All right, everyone,” Madam Hooch called out. “Step up to the left side of your broomsticks. Come on now, quickly!”
James took his place next to a broom that looked like it had seen better days.
“Now, extend your right hand over your broom and say, ‘Up!’” Madam Hooch said and demonstrated with her own broomstick.
“Up!” James said confidently, and his broom jumped immediately into his hand. He grinned in triumph and shot a challenging glance at Sirius.
Sirius smirked. He summoned his broom that soared neatly into his palm. He winked at James.
James waited patiently for Madam Hooch’s instructions while observing the other Gryffindors. On the opposite row, Marlene McKinnon had easily summoned her own broom and Mary Macdonald also managed to make hers lift from the ground after a few attempts. Lily, though, was frowning in concentration. Her broom twitched a little but stayed firmly on the ground. Peter also looked increasingly frustrated as his broom remained stubbornly still.
“Up!” Peter called again, a little more desperately this time. The broom rolled a bit but still refused to lift.
“Maybe your broom’s just shy,” Sirius said, approaching Peter with a teasing grin.
Peter scowled and gave his broom another half-hearted command. “Up…”
“This trash would be more useful in house elves’ hands,” Sirius snickered.
Lily overheard Sirius’ arrogant comment and her frustration boiled over. “Stop laughing, Black,” she snapped. “Some of us weren’t born with broomsticks glued to our hands.”
Sirius smirked. “Don’t worry, Evans. I’m sure you have other hidden talents.”
She glared at him and returned her attention to her broom still lying lifelessly on the ground. Stupid thing, she thought.
“Everyone quiet!” Madam Hooch barked. She walked between the rows. “Brooms respond to confidence,” she said firmly, pausing beside Peter, who was sweating nervously. “No hesitation, Mr Pettigrew. Try again.”
Peter swallowed hard and held out his hand. “Up!” he shouted, and this time, to his immense relief, the broom jumped up into his hand.
Madam Hooch nodded in half-reluctant satisfaction. “All right, now that we’ve all managed to summon our brooms, let’s move on,” she continued. “When I blow my whistle, you will kick off from the ground, rise a few feet, and come straight back down. No showing off. On my whistle now—three, two—"
The whistle cut through the air and the students kicked off the ground. James shot up effortlessly as if his broomstick were an extension of his own body.
Sirius soared up beside him, flashing a wide grin. “Piece of cake, huh?”
James laughed and his heart soared alongside the broom, drunk by the sense of freedom.
Remus, who had been quiet throughout the entire lesson, was fighting to keep himself from having a panic attack. He had never flown before Hogwarts but like everything else, Remus had a knack for learning quickly.
This time though, he didn’t enjoy the process. The moment he kicked off the ground, Remus realised two things: first, he hated flying and would do anything, and he meant it, anything so that he wouldn’t have to touch a broomstick ever again, even if he had to beg, manipulate and lie his way out of it (writer's note: Remus was not a drama queen at all, and yes this is sarcasm). The second thing was far more important: Remus was absolutely terrified of heights.
“You all right?” James called.
Remus nodded though his face was a bit paler than usual. “Yeah, just... taking it slow.”
“You’re doing great!”
Madam Hooch’s sharp voice rang out from below. “Everyone, back down! Gently now!”
James and Sirius were the last to descend, clearly reluctant to cut the lesson short. James landed smoothly followed by Sirius who dismounted like it was the easiest thing in the world. Peter, however, was once again far less graceful. As he touched down, his broom jerked sharply and he stumbled forward, nearly hitting the ground with his face. Remus rushed down eagerly, thankful for when his feet touched the grass.
“Well done everyone,” said Madam Hooch. “A few bumps and wobbles but not bad for a first lesson.” She clapped her hands. “All right, that’s enough for today. Next time, we’ll work on turns and control. Some of you—” her gaze fell briefly towards Peter “—need to work on steadying your brooms. Practice makes perfect.”
As the students began to head back towards the castle, James couldn’t help but jog up to Lily.
“You did well for your first time, Evans,” he said, flashing a charming smile.
“I nearly fell off twice,” she said flatly.
“Thrice,” said James playfully.
Lily’s brow furrowed in confusion. “No, I believe it was about two times.”
He grinned broadly. “And the third was clearly when you fell for me.”
Lily made a noise like she was vomiting. She shoved him aggressively on his shoulder and moved past him.
“Oi, Evans! Did it hurt when you fell?” Sirius called after her with a smirk.
“For your own good Black, I hope you mean from heaven and not for your idiotic friend,” she shot back as she kept walking away.
The boys headed back to the castle. Peter lagged behind them, releasing a tired sigh, and rubbing his sore arms.
“I’m never getting on a broom again,” he muttered, loud enough for James to hear.
“Oh, come on, Pete!” James said. “You didn’t do too bad. By the end of the year, you’ll be racing us.”
Peter sighed again. Remus fell into step beside them, still looking shaken and flushed. Sirius, who had caught his excessive efforts and immense concentration during the flying lesson, grinned playfully at him.
“So… how was it?”
“That was...something,” Remus said.
“Something fun or something… dreadful?” Sirius pressed. He looked like he was enjoying this.
Remus froze and stared at him, his amber eyes gleaming a little unnaturally. “Dreadful, of course!” He threw his hands in the air with exasperation. “How do you lot keep doing this? I mean, you actually enjoy it? You have to think about everything all at once,” he gestured with his fingers, “—the angle, the height, the balance, the wind’s speed. I know I tend to overthink everything, but this—this was exhausting, even for me!”
James was shaking with laughter. “Oh c’mon, surely it wasn’t that bad,” he said.
“I hate flying, I really do,” said Remus. “From this moment on and for the rest of my life. It’s done. Ah, also, I just realised I’m afraid of heights. Did you know that?” He pointed to himself. “Because I surely didn’t. And guess what? I’m sure Madam Hooch won’t give a damn about it!” He waved his hands frantically.
Sirius kept staring at him with an amused expression.
“Not cool, guys,” Remus went on. “Really, not cool. It’s literally a phobia. I’m afraid, that’s what a phobia is. I might faint next time.” He paused, tapping his chin absentmindedly. “Perhaps if I break a leg or two, Madam Hooch will excuse me from her class.”
Sirius could barely contain his laughter. “Why are you like this?”
“It’s the near-death experience,” said Remus. He stared at his friends with a dazed expression. “And also, I think I had more pumpkin juice for breakfast. It makes me hyperactive.”
“Okay, see what we’re gonna do,” said James, wrapping his arms around Remus and Sirius. “We’re gonna head to the Great Hall for lunch and you’ll drink water—a great amount of water to get it out of your system.”.
“Nooo! He’s funnier that way!” Sirius exclaimed, nudging James.
Remus rolled his eyes, breaking free from James’ arm. “I’m fine. I’m just grateful for walking on earth—good, solid, earth.” He stared at his feet. “Please, don’t leave my feet ever again,” he muttered as if talking to the ground.
“Can someone get high on pumpkin juice?” Sirius asked.
“I don’t know,” said James, “but you’re literally the last person who should try it.”
“I’m not high!” Remus protested. His gaze drifted to the corridor ahead. “Thank Merlin, I don’t want to be high ever again—no more heights.”
The others chuckled loudly as they all made their way to the Great Hall.
September 9th, 1971
Lily was standing alone, leaning against a wall and scanning the corridors on the second floor. She knew that Slytherins were supposed to have Charms at that moment but the class would end soon. She needed to find Severus. He had been avoiding her since their arrival at Hogwarts.
At first, she thought it was because of their different curriculum. Gryffindors didn’t share many classes with Slytherins as the two Houses didn’t get along, for many reasons but mostly due to the rivalry between their founders, Godric Gryffindor and Salazar Slytherin. Lily had wondered how it was possible for a grudge to endure so strongly during the centuries, especially when the first people it concerned had been dead for ages. Then she remembered that her own sister was able to hold a grudge against her for something that wasn't even her fault.
She also knew that Severus had always needed time to adopt to big changes. She still remembered the day he had moved to Spinner’s End, her neighbourhood, with his mother when they were both only five years old—how uncomfortable and shy he seemed. It took months for him to adjust to his new life.
Hogwarts was definitely something that had turned their lives upside down. But as the week went on, Lily felt that Severus was deliberately trying to stay away from her. Every time her eyes fell on him, he averted his gaze and when Lily tried to approach him he turned the other way, always mumbling that he was in a hurry. The difference was there but she just didn’t understand why.
Lily spotted him slipping into an empty classroom and quickened her pace. She took a deep breath and opened the door. Severus stood by a dusty old desk and examined a jar of pickled toads. His straight black hair fell into his face and his dark robes seemed to swallow him whole. Sensing that someone else was in the room, he jerked around. His eyes widened slightly at Lily before he quickly turned away.
“Severus,” said Lily, “we need to talk.”
“I’m quite busy right now,” he said, not impolitely but distant.
She raised an eyebrow. “Staring at a jar?”
He didn’t reply but kept his back turned on her.
Lily stepped closer. “Why are you doing this?”
“Lily—”
“No. You’ve been avoiding me. Ever since the Sorting Ceremony you haven’t said a word to me.”
Severus let go of the jar, his hands resting tightly at the edges of the desk. “Well, we’re in different Houses now,” he said, barely glancing back over his shoulder, “so it’s not like we really have time to spend together.”
“That’s rubbish,” she said. “We have classes together. And breakfast. And dinner. But you’ve been ignoring me entirely.”
He shook his head. “You wouldn’t understand.”
“Try me.”
Severus didn’t say a word. As Lily kept staring at his back, the silence grew heavy around them. She could feel her anger rising.
“What’s a ‘Mudblood’, Severus?” she asked. Her tone was sharp, cold.
Severus finally moved. He whipped around, his face pale and drawn. “Where did you hear that?”
“One of your friends called me that on our first Herbology class.”
“It’s nothing. You shouldn’t be bothered with it.”
“Tell me,” Lily insisted firmly. “I have a right to know what people say behind my back. You made a promise, Severus, and by now, you’ve been failing miserably at keeping it.” She stepped closer, struggling to stay calm. “Tell me what that word means. You owe me that much, at least.”
Severus expelled a sigh. “It’s an extremely insulting term, a slur to describe Muggle-borns,” he said hesitantly. “It means they are lesser than the other wizards, an abomination because their blood is not pure. Because—because their parents aren’t wizards...”
“Your father is a Muggle,” Lily pointed out. “Do they call you a ‘Mudblood’ too?”
“It’s not the same—”
“Oh, so you agree with them,” she snapped. “You also consider me an abomination?”
“No, of course not!”
Her expression hardened. “Then why are you treating me like this?”
“It’s… it’s complicated, Lily.”
“Complicated? How? We were best friends back in Spinner’s End. We promised we’d stick together.” She crossed the classroom until they were standing face to face with each other. “I know we’re in different Houses, and I know my parents are not wizards but I’m still me.” Her expression looked pained. “You’re acting just like Petunia, right now.”
Severus sighed. “The other Slytherins… they don’t like Muggle-borns,” he said. “At all. If they see me with you, they’ll make my life a living hell.”
Despite her anger, Lily’s eyes softened. “Sev, you can’t let others tell you who to be and who you can be friends with,” she said. “It’s ridiculous.” She reached for his hand.
Severus whipped it back, away from her. “You don’t get it. You’re in Gryffindor. No one gives a damn about blood status in your House but in mine, I always have to compete with purebloods to prove I’m just as competent as the rest of them. I can’t be seen with you, not only because your parents are Muggles but also ’cause you’re a Gryffindor. Our Houses are natural enemies.”
“That’s the most idiotic thing.”
“Well, it’s true.”
Lily recoiled. “I won’t let you push me away. We’ve been through too much together. You need to stand up for yourself.”
“Easy for you to say. You don’t live with them,” he retorted.
“And you don’t have to let them control you!” Lily shot back.
Severus turned his face away again. When he spoke his voice was distant. “I’m here for you. I’ll always be here for you, but I just—I need time, Lils.”
Lily’s shoulders sagged, and she took a step back to give him space. “All right. I am here for you too. Always,” she whispered. “Don’t forget it.”
He nodded slightly but didn’t meet her eyes. Lily waited for a moment, thinking he would say something but when he didn’t, she sighed and turned to leave. As she reached the door she looked back one last time.
“Don’t let them change you, Sev. You’re better than that.”
She walked out, the door closing behind her. Severus slumped into a chair. The silence of the empty classroom pressed in around him and for the first time, he felt the loneliness of his new reality at Hogwarts.
Lily walked through the twisting corridors and moving staircases almost on autopilot, her mind playing their exchange over and over. By the time she’d reached the entrance to Gryffindor Tower, her eyes were stinging with unshed tears.
The Fat Lady stared at her with worry. “Oh, dear, what happened to you?”
“Ignis,” she managed firmly, unable to hold her tears any longer.
The Fat Lady opened the door with no other word. Lily hurried past the common room and up the stairs to her dormitory, hoping to find some peace in her own space. She pushed the door open and was relieved to see it was empty. The sight of her bed was a small comfort so she sank onto its edge and finally let the tears fall, her body shaking as she kept sobbing.
After a while, the door creaked open. Mary and Marlene entered, their laughter fading as they noticed her state. Marlene was the first to react. She rushed over, her brown eyes full of concern. She knelt beside her.
“Hey, hey, what happened?” she asked. Mary approached and sat on the bed next to Lily. She placed a gentle hand on her back.
Lily tried to speak but the words caught in her throat. “It’s Severus,” she said, her voice small.
Mary’s eyes narrowed at the mention of his name. Lily had told them all about her childhood friend, how they grew up together, their houses across each other’s, and that he’d been avoiding her after he was sorted in Slytherin.
“What about him?” Marlene asked carefully.
“I asked him why he’s been acting strange around me,” Lily muttered. “He said it was because of the other Slytherins.”
“Those stuck-up prats,” Mary hissed. Marlene touched her knee firmly to calm her down and Mary huffed, pressing her mouth shut.
“What did he say exactly?” Marlene asked returning her focus to Lily.
“He thinks they’ll make his life miserable if they see him with me.”
Marlene frowned with confusion. “That’s so unfair. You’re the nicest person alive. Why would anyone want to avoid you?”
“Because she’s a Muggle-born,” Mary said, her voice strained as realisation dawned on her. Lily lowered her head.
“And what’s wrong with that?” Marlene asked.
“Both of your parents are wizards so you wouldn’t really know how it is but Lily and I, being Muggle-borns, are constantly met with disapproving looks by the Slytherins.”
“One of them called me a Mudblood,” Lily whispered, and more tears slipped. Mary kept stroking her back soothingly. “I know it’s just a word and a few hours ago it didn’t mean a thing to me. But… what if he sees me that way too?”
“Then he’s not worth it,” said Mary.
Marlene nodded. “Lils, listen to me.” She took Lily’s hands in her own and held them firmly. “There’s magic running through your veins. No one can ever take that away from you. Severus will come around. He cares about you.”
Lily leaned into their embrace. “I don’t want to lose him,” she said, her voice breaking.
“You won’t,” said Mary. “And even if he’s being a prick right now, you’ve got us. We’re your friends too.”
“That’s right,” said Marlene. “Who cares about stupid boys?”
“Yeah, and if he ever hurts you again, I swear I’ll make it slow and painful,” said Mary.
Lily chuckled through her tears and gave them a small, hesitant smile. “Thank you. I don’t know what I would do without you.”
“Good thing you’ll never have to find out,” Marlene said, crossing her arms on Lily’s knees and playfully tilting her head. “Okay, enough of this.” She rose from the floor and pulled Lily up with her. “Why don’t we go to the common room so I can beat you at Exploding Snap?”
“What’s that?” Lily asked, sniffling.
“It’s a card game,” said Marlene. “Players take turns laying the cards down. When one of your cards matches the previous one, laid on the table, you have to snap your fingers quickly. If you’re too slow or you snap incorrectly they may explode. The goal is to be the last player left with cards in your hands.”
“So, like UNO—” Mary and Lily started together. They both grinned at each other.
“—except you have to keep your cards instead of getting rid of them,” Mary finished their sentence and moved away from the bed.
“Yeah, sure, whatever you say,” Marlene said, having no idea what they were talking about. The others laughed and Marlene shoved them playfully.
The girls exited the room holding Lily fiercely with their arms around her shoulders. They didn’t know it yet, but whatever happened from now on, they would always have each other.
September 11th, 1971
It was the first tryouts of the season, and students from all years and Houses had gathered in the Quidditch pitch to showcase their skills.
James adjusted his square glasses. “Ready?”
Sirius grinned, his dark hair windswept and his blue eyes alight with excitement. “Born ready. Let’s show them what we’ve got.”
They approached the flying instructor, Madam Hooch. She wore a whistle around her neck and flying robes. Her sharp yellow eyes scanned the field with the precision of a hawk.
“Madam Hooch, we’re here for the tryouts,” said James.
She turned around and glanced down to face them. “First years, huh? You’ve got a nerve boys, I’ll give you that. Go stand to your House’s queue and your Captain will tell you what to do.”
They both nodded and joined the line of students waiting for their turn. As they inched closer to the front, they noticed Gideon and Fabian Prewett sitting behind a short table, holding papers and writing down the candidates’ names. Gideon glanced up, his clipboard in hand.
“Potter, Black,” he said with a grin. “I should’ve expected to see you here, eventually.”
“Wait, you’re also our team’s Captain?” Sirius asked incredulously.
“Besides being your Prefect, yes,” said Gideon. He shrugged modestly. “What can I say, I’m a wonder.”
“You’re a pain in the ass, that’s what you are,” his brother Fabian interrupted teasingly and the young boys tried to bite back their laughter.
“We’ll be trying for the Beaters positions,” said James.
“Okay, guys,” said Gideon. “Let’s see what you’ve got. Take to the skies and show me your best moves.”
James and Sirius mounted their brooms, kicked off from the ground, and soared into the air, the wind whipping through their hair as they looped and dived. Sirius kept hitting the bludgers with incredible force for his age. James despite having excellent reflexes wasn’t as strong as Sirius but still executed several tricks, demonstrating his agility. Gideon watched them closely, nodding appreciatively at their talent and writing on his clipboard.
“They’re good,” Fabian noted.
“Yeah, but they’re too young,” Gideon muttered. He looked with a torn expression at James, who scored flawlessly through the hoops. “And we only need to cover three places for the team.”
“We also have to find substitutes,” said Fabian.
“And you think they can cover it?”
“Oh c’mon, they are far better than all the others were in their first year.”
“I know Fab, but that’s the problem. They are better than everyone else when they were at their age. We need players who are skilled but who also have experience. They have all the time in the world to join the team but I don’t think it’s their time yet.”
Fabian leaned back on his chair with a defeated sigh. “Whatever you decide,” he said, waving a hand. “It’s your call, Cap.”
Gideon blew his whistle, signalling the boys to land. James and Sirius touched down, their faces flushed, both breathing hard. With confident smiles, they walked over to Gideon who consulted his notes.
“That was quite impressive, both of you,” he admitted. “Black, you have strong arms and quick reflexes. Your flying technique is also remarkable. Have you been studying the French team?”
Sirius nodded.
Gideon hummed impressed. “You’ll make a great Beater,” he said. He then turned to James. “Potter, your hitting ability is poor. But you’re fast and you have excellent hand-eye coordination. You should try for the Chaser position, next year.”
“Next year?” James asked, the broom nearly escaping his hand.
Gideon sighed. “You’ve done great but you’re still too young. First-years are typically not allowed on the team. I told you so.”
“Can’t you make an exception? We won’t let you down, I swear,” said James. He glanced over at Fabian who only shrugged with an apologetic expression.
“I know you won’t but rules are rules. You’re clearly skilled but I don’t think you’re ready yet. I’ve seen more competent players so far and we need people with real strength and experience if we’re gonna beat the Slytherins this year.” Seeing their disappointed faces, he gave them a sincere smile. “I’m sorry guys. Keep practising and at some point, you’ll be unstoppable.”
James and Sirius exchanged a resigned glance. They knew arguing wouldn’t change anything.
“All right,” James said. “We’ll be back next year, better than ever.”
Gideon clapped them both on the shoulders. “That’s the spirit. Now, off you go. I have to get back to the tryouts. And remember, the pitch is always open for practice.”
With that, he turned and walked away to check on the rest of the participants. The boys stayed silent for a few moments, frozen in place. James turned to Sirius.
“Well, that didn’t go as planned,” he said.
Sirius didn’t respond. He kept staring at the field with an unreadable expression.
“Don’t worry,” James said, trying to sound optimistic despite feeling like his dreams had just shattered. So much for impressing Lily during the matches. “Next year we’ll blow them away.”
“Yeah, sure,” Sirius muttered.
The two friends headed towards the castle and back to their dorm. Remus was lying on his bed, reading “The Fellowship of the Ring” by J.R.R. Tolkien while Peter was sitting cross-legged on the floor, playing with his gobstones; a game somewhat similar to marbles. They both glanced up as the others entered the room.
“I take it from the expressions on your faces that you didn’t make it,” said Remus.
Sirius tossed his broom with frustration. “No, we didn’t,” he said through gritted teeth.
“Gideon said we’re not ready yet,” said James as started taking off his flying gear.
“I don’t know what you expected,” said Remus, refocusing on his book. “No first-years have ever made it to the team.”
“Well, that’s cause all first-years have your flying abilities,” Sirius retorted.
Remus shrugged without taking his eyes off the pages before him. “I don’t have any flying abilities. I hate flying.”
“That’s entirely my point,” Sirius said. “They’re non-existent.”
“Okay, enough,” James said with an amused smile. “It’s not Remus’ fault we didn’t make it to the team. Chill out.”
Sirius groaned and sank into his bed.
“I wouldn’t do that if I were you,” Remus said lazily. “You reek of sweat. And I believe I can catch a faint hint of something else…” He grinned as he scratched his chin. “Oh yes, failure.”
“That’s it Lupin. You’re done.” Sirius abruptly stood up, running to Remus’ bed. Remus exclaimed in surprise and let go of his book, trying to shield himself but Sirius took off his sweaty blouse and began rubbing it on his face.
“Sirius, I swear to God, I’m going to kill you!” Remus exclaimed, his voice drowned by Sirius’ laughter.
“Oh yeah? Let’s see you try,” Sirius said with a sly smirk as he pinned Remus down and started tickling him.
“Get him off of me!”
“Okay guys, that’s enough!” James laughed as he approached them, grabbing Sirius by his waist and dragging him away. Sirius ran a hand through his unruly hair as James let go of him.
“Don’t worry, I’m sure they’ll let you on the team next year,” said Peter.
Sirius smirked. “For their own good, they’d better.”