AJ

This is from sometime BEFORE December of 2024 so…

Hair’s Breadth From Death

Gun to Temple | “Say Goodbye”

TW: This story includes mentions of the following:

Held Captive

Panic Attacks

Wands to the Head

Regulus Black heard the basement doors open, many footsteps following. He wasn’t prepared to hear the voice of his past lover, screaming to be let go. He sobered up from his sleep real quick. The screaming continued.

“Would you SHUT UP!? You’re making this a LOT worse for yourself, and nobody can hear you anyways.” one of the captors cut into the yelling. Regulus watched as they dragged the new prisoner into the cell next to him. The person had not yet spotted him eyes still focused on the person who was pushing him into the cell.

A second person was then thrown in. Regulus hadn’t even noticed them, and they were making direct eye contact with him. As soon as the basement doors closed once more, and the first person’s yelling ceased, Regulus spoke to the eyes he remembered from childhood.

“Sirius? What are you doing here? You aren’t supposed to be here. You should-” he began to panic, sinking to sit on his knees. Sirius was meant to be far away from here. Sirius was meant to be safe. Here, in this basement, Sirius couldn’t be safe. 

Then his mind shifted to his past lover. James. James shouldn’t be here either. How was he here? Why was he here? He had to get both of them out of here, out and away from the torture. His mind continue to ramble, unintelligible words leaving his mouth. Somehow, a voice cut through the thoughts:

“Regulus. Reggie, look at me.” said the voice. He looked towards him, eyes clouded by tears. “Good boy, can you come closer?”

And Regulus felt pulled by the voice, slowly inching closer. Inching towards the 2 hands that were reaching out for him. Once within reach, each hand found a place on either side of his face.

Regulus heard some exaggerated breathing, following it, as one of his hands came up to hold the wrist of one of the hands on his face. Once he had calmed, he looked at the face of who was in front of him.

“James?”

“I’m right here, you’re going to be okay.”

Regulus had just enough energy to let out a soft laugh before speaking, eyes shifting from one of James’ to the other. “It’s not me I’m worried about, you idiot. It’s you,”. His voice dropped to a whisper “You shouldn’t be here,”

He turned to look at Sirius, who was standing a few paces away from James, still and un-moving. “What are you doing here?”

Sirius opened his mouth to speak, but nothing came out. His eyes panicked for a second before closing and taking a deep breath, fists clenching and un-clenching for several moments.

Regulus knew he needed time. He would have episodes like this where speaking was physically impossible, which is probably why he hadn’t spoken upon arrival. There we’re several more seconds of silence before Sirius’ strained voice sounded:

“Rescue- mission.”

Regulus was still. From what he had last heard from the captors, Death Easters to be precise, he was supposed to be dead. He had gotten caught in the cave while trying to retrieve Voldemort’s locket, and had long sense been taken here. He had no idea how long he had been down there, but obviously it was long enough for people to think him dead.

“How did-” Regulus began to ask.

“Bracelet,” was all Sirius had to say. Regulus immediately moved his hand to his left wrist, feeling the piece of metal that wrapped around it. Keeping his eyes on Sirius, he let out a relieved breath, smiling. 

“I forgot about it. I thought you stopped wearing yours-”

“I would never stop wearing it. I love you Reggie,” Sirius said coming down in front of him, reaching through the bars that separated them. He put a hand on Regulus’ wrist. “I regret not taking you with me when-”

“I didn’t give you a choice. I shoved you into the fireplace before you could even grab me.”

Sirius had tears starting to crawl down his face now. “I’m just glad you’re actually here. I knew when I felt the bracelet was still warm that your had to be somewhere.”

“You never stopped looking for me?” Regulus had a slight smirk on his face, playing around with his brother now.

Sirius laughed, just a breathy laugh and gripped the younger more firmly. “I’m going to get us out of here, I promise.”

“Do you have a plan?” Regulus now shifted gazes between his brother and his ex-lover.

“We figured the one we had wouldn’t work, which it won’t, so we’re going to come up with one on the spot. Got any tips about this place? Any schedule?” James answered.

Of course, Regulus thought. Of course they have to come up with a plan. Nothing can be as simple as getting in and getting out. There are factors that have to be considered, and people you have to get by in order to escape a hell hole.

----

Two days later, they had a plan. They had to comply with their captors for a couple of days, Regulus mostly being taken out of the room and coming back with bruises and small cuts. James and Sirius had also been taken out of the room, however, neither had experienced what Regulus seemed to have. More than likely, they would be taken into a room one at a time and be yelled at for information.

The captors had finally gotten tired of no information being shared, and had a plan of their own.

They walked in, opening Regulus’ cell. Regulus had readied himself for them to grab his arms and drag him out like they had done for days. However, Upon walking in, they grabbed him and shoved him to his knees from where he sat on the bed.

Eyes were wide from all three prisoners as a hand gripped Regulus’ hair, pulling his head back and exposing his neck. His hands went to grip the ones in his hair, and a wand landed itself, pushing painfully, on his temple. Regulus raised his hands from his hair, showing no sign of defense.

“Hey what are you-” Sirius was cut off.

“This is how this is going to go. We ask questions, you give answers, and pretty-boy here doesn’t get hurt.” He paused. Looking between all three as he spoke. The wand suck deeper into Regulus’ temple when he said ‘pretty boy’, and Regulus tried to shy away. “Have we got a deal boys?”

Neither had answered. Regulus could barely see the other two as he looked around, eyes straining for anything other than the captors masks.

The captors didn’t like the lack of answer. They pulled on Regulus’ hair, a wince and a small groan coming out of him. Both James and Sirius reached a hand out, ready to pounce, before they had wands trained on them from behind the bars. They relaxed, but only slightly, and the grip on the trained wands were loosened.

“Fine, we’ll talk.” Sirius stood firm, the Black posture showing with his chin tilting up. “Just, please. Leave him alone.”

“Sirius, n-” Regulus was cut off with another tug of the hair, his hands balling into tight fists before stretching back out. His face showed an expression of pain, his chest constricting slightly at his position.

“Let’s get started then,” said the captor behind Regulus. “First question, who sent you?”

“We sent ourselves, psycho. What makes you think that-”

“Crucio!” Was all Regulus had to prepare, which wasn’t a lot. The feeling of sharp knives had spread over his body, his body tensing, and his eyes scrunched shut. His arms had folded in, clutching themselves to his chest and his teeth grinding.

The hand on his hair had released him and he slumped over, folding further into a fetal position. It seemed to go on for hours, when it was really only a few seconds. He hadn’t felt the effects of that curse in years, and he did not miss it. All at once the sharp knives had stopped, and his body went lax, but the pins and needles feeling lingered. His body twitched every so often, breathing coming a little easier now even if heavy.

He could hear now. Hear the way his brother was screaming for them to stop. Hear the way his ex-lover was banging on the bars, trying to hold back his sobs. Hear the way the captors laughed behind their masks and stood watching the scene.

Regulus slowly pulled his head out of his chest to look at Sirius. Tears were streaked down the olders’ face, hands had a white-knuckle grip on the bars. Mouth open to say something but no words coming out.

“ ‘m okay, Siri. ‘m okay.”

Sirius whimpered, words still not coming out. Regulus shifted his gaze to James. James just looked mad, and instead of grabbing the bars, he had opted for piercing his own skin, nails to palm.

“Jam-”

“I’ll be fine,” it was curt. Regulus didn’t say anything else, energy having been drained.

The captors were still giggling to themselves when the “leader” spoke up:

“This isn’t going to end well for pretty-boy if you continue this way. That was only the first question.” He laughed harder, the other following in suit. “Might as well say ‘Good-bye’, pretty-boy,” he said, pushing his boot into Regulus’ chest to turn him onto his back. “Looks like your friends here don’t care about you enough to keep you from getting hurt.”

“Good.” was all Regulus said.

The masked captor had stared for a moment, and gave a slight huff before motioning towards the door. It was a signal to leave, and everyone had obeyed, leaving the cell and going back upstairs. The “leader” had also left, but not before turning to Sirius and James.

“I’ll be back later.”

----

Regulus hadn’t moved from his spot in 20 minutes. His eyes now shut, and his breathing for the most part even. Every once in a while he would gasp in his sleep, his body jolting slightly before going back to its lax position.

Sirius and James couldn’t take their eyes off of him, making sure he kept breathing. They had a quiet conversation as he slept.

“We have to do this, Sirius. It’s now or never. If we wait any longer we’ll have to carry him out of this place dead.”

“Don’t say that, James. We’re going to get out of here, and Regulus is going to be fine.” Sirius let a single tear shed thinking about James statement.

Because James was right. If they didn’t set their plan in motion now, there was no way all of them were going to get out of there alive. Their plan was done, and ready to be executed, but the details all depended on how the captors planned for the day.

James and Sirius had a back up plan in case their original didn’t work. The main goal of Plan B: Get Regulus out.

----

Regulus had regained consciousness now. He still hadn’t moved, making James and Sirius worry more for the boy.

They didn’t have long to dwell on the moment as they heard the basement doors open. James and Sirius immediately jumped to their feet, Regulus settling for shifting his head against the ground to catch a glimpse of the scene. Only one pair of footsteps could be heard, but there was no doubt there were more upstairs.

The person came slowly towards their cells. They had no mask on, and seeing their face was only a slight relief.

“Hello cousins, Potter,” they said.

Sirius stood shell shocked. Never in a million years did he think he would see this person like this.His mouth opened and closed, no words spoken for a minute. Regulus was the one to break the silence.

“Cissa-”

She had rushed to the door of his cell, quickly opening the door with a flick of her wand. It was obvious Alohamora wouldn’t work, so the fact that she had clicked open the lock so easily was impressive. Narcissa had dropped to her knees in front of Regulus, her blonde hair blocking her view for only a second. Pushing it out of the way, she placed a gentle hand on his arm and another coming up to brush through his matted hair. Regulus flinched slightly at the sudden attention.

“What have they done to you? This is not what we had agreed upon. They’re going to pay for thi-”

“What?” Sirius voiced. So many thoughts running through his head at the statement. “’Not what you had agreed upon’? What is that supposed to mean?

Narcissa looked back. “We had agreed to keep him here, and try to get information out of him, try to understand what he was doing. Torture was completely out of the question.”

“You mean you still care for me?” Regulus smirked.

“Oh hush, you.” Narcissa looked around for a minute. “You’re getting out of here. Right now. Come on, up and at em.”

Regulus whimpered at the movement that Narcissa was forcing on him. Apologies were said, but she kept moving his to a sitting position, his legs straight out in front of him now, arms gripping the others’.

Sirius let another tear fall now, and couldn’t look away. James had stayed silent as the “family reunion” happened, wringing his hands together all the while.

Narcissa had told Regulus to stay put for a second, and went to open the other cell. She instructed Sirius and James to help Regulus, then led them out of the basement. Regulus had one arm over James’ shoulders, and the other around Sirius’.

Sirius was hesitant at first. What if this is a trap? What if I’m letting my judgement cloud my knowledge?

Those thoughts were quickly shoved aside as James spoke softly, “It’s going to be fine. She’s going to get us out, and we’ll be fine.”

Narcissa opened the basement door, and held it open for the other three. She then led them towards the front door, but paused as she heard a voice.

“Cissy? Are you back up already?” Malfoy was coming down the corridor, and Narcissa ushered them back behind the banister. No later then when they had disappeared did Lucius manifest from around the corner.

“Hey,” Lucius said embracing his wife in a hug. “How is he?”

“Fine for having an unforgivable used on him,” Narcissa sighed, her head resting on his chest now, Lucius’ chin finding place on her head. “That’s not what we agreed, Lucius.”

“I know, honey, but there has to be a way to get the other two to talk. They’re stubborn, but there had to be something.”

Narcissa moved her head away now, “Yes, but you couldn’t talk to me first? You know how I feel about you going behind my back. I go down there expecting him to be up and pacing, but he’s crumpled on the floor and barely talking to me.”

“I’m sorry. I just didn’t know how to talk to you about it.”

Regulus’ head was beginning to droop closer to his chest, eyes slowly closing, and legs going weak for a split second. Sirius and James weren’t ready for it, but easily accounted for the added weight. A few moments had gone by, both Sirius and James focused on the conversation keeping them from escaping. 

Paying more attention to the couple warranted Regulus the split second the completely slip out of consciousness, not having the energy to stay awake. A thud was heard, and Lucius pushed Narcissa behind him.

He didn’t have time to speak though as Sirius shouted:

“Reggie!”

Immediately, Narcissa pushed Lucius to the side and ran to the other side of the banister. Regulus was slumped against James, chest to chest, and hair covering his pale face. James had wrapped his arms around the younger Black as a reflex. Thank goodness for quidditch.

Once James had safely lowered them to the ground, Sirius helped in rolling Regulus onto his back, now laying fully on the floor, head lolling to the side.

“He just collapsed, I don’t- What- How did I not-” Sirius was panicking. He looked between Regulus and Narcissa several times. Lucius was frozen.

“You-” Narcissa cut through his staring, “are going to go upstairs and pretend you saw none of this.”

“Cissy, you know I can’t-”

“Do it NOW before I do it for you.” her face was angry. Lucius knew better than to mess with an angry Narcissa, so he obeyed and left to go upstairs.

Turning back around, she saw James still over Regulus with one hand on a pale cheek, trying to coax him out of his slumber. Sirius was sitting with his arms his midsection, like a child who was about to throw up. She had to think quick.

“It was the Cruciatus Curse that was used, right?”

James was the only one focused enough to reply. “Yes, but the person said it weird. It sounded more like ‘cru-see-o’. I don’t see what this has to do with him passing out though.”

“That’s not just any Cruciatus Curse. That’s the second one that was developed, but it’s only known by dark wizards.” Narcissa was wracking her brain for side effects of the spell. “How long was the curse kept on him?”

“Only seconds, why?”

“How many?”

“10-15. What is happening?”

“You need to get him somewhere with a healer, NOW. Get him up, I’ll take you to the apparation point and you need to get him a healer.”

“I can’t just waltz into St. Mungos with him. He’s been presumed dead.” James said looking back to Regulus.

“You don’t know anyone else that has healer training?”

Silence. Useless said Narcissa to herself. How can nobody be a healer in your wide range of friends.

“You do, Cissa.” Both James and Narcissa looked to Sirius who was still sitting with his arms around himself, but his face was no longer in a mix of panic and crying. Instead his face was stone cold

“Yes but it’s been ages since I’ve actually practiced anything.”

“Do you know what needs to be done?” James asked, leaning towards her slightly.

“Yes but I-”

“Them save him,” Sirius looked into her eyes. “Please? Please save him. I can’t lose him.”

And so Narcissa got her wand out. Neither Gryffindor knew what was going on, but eventually there was a little gasp from Regulus. No more than a couple seconds went by, all eyes on him, before his eyes fluttered open. His breathing began to pick up, looking around frantically, trying to understand what just happened.

“Hey, hey,” Narcissa placed a hand on his chest. “You’re okay. We’re right here, and you’re right here. You’re getting out of here.”

James took that as a signal to pick Regulus up, bridal style, and follow Narcissa out of there.

----

Once at the apparation point, Narcissa bid them farewell, telling Regulus to find a way to write. James apparated away first.

Sirius stayed behind. He looked from where James had just been standing with Regulus to Narcissa.

“What was that curse, Cissa? Answer truthfully.”

She had to take a deep breath. “It’s designed to feel and look like the Cruciatus, but in reality, it’s just another form of the killing curse.”

“So it’s like they just put two unforgivables into one curse?”

“Essentially, yes.” Narcissa had no other words on the matter. She was just glad that she had known what was happening, and stopped it in time. “Take care of him. If you need anything else, the wards are set not to alert anything from you, so send a patronus.”

“I will. Thank you again.” Sirius stepped away, getting ready to apparate.

“And Sirius?” Narcissa stopped him. Sirius turned around.

Narcissa stepped towards him and pulled him into an embrace. Sirius was stiff for only a moment before he accepted the embrace, wrapping his arms around his cousin. They stayed like that for a moment longer, Narcissa pulling away first.

Sirius had tears in his eyes. “I knew you were a good one,” he said laughing. Narcissa returned the laugh, and stepped back.

“Take care of yourself too. I can’t lose you.” Narcissa said.

Nowhere to run

Cornered, Caged, Confrontation

The battle zone was a mess of rubble and blood as The Order and The Dark Lord’s Death Eaters fought. The Order had been ambushed on a routine lookout in a town not far from Hogsmead. The Order was outnumbered at the start, but held their own and turned the tides. That doesn’t mean that the Death Eaters weren’t prepared to anything they could to get a leg up.

Half of the Order was the Marauders and their friends. A few older ones here and there, and, of course, the Aurors were on their side. This didn’t mean things COULDN’T go wrong.

James was running every-which-way with a child in his arms, trying to get back to the safe-point. The reason for his running? Death Eaters were chasing him, trying to kill the little girl. The girl in James’ arms was of muggle blood, and had no wizarding abilities. The Dark Lord was very keen on getting rid of anyone who wasn’t pure-blood.

Curses were screaming by him as he narrowly dodged each spell.

"James Potter, you stopped the second!" One of the Death Eaters shouted.

"Never in a million years, you snakes!" James yelled back, keeping it clean for the child. " Don't worry," he turned his head towards the girl, " I'm going to get you out of here, hold tight!" he whispered, holding the girl slightly tighter. The child clung to him, and James turned on the spot, apparating away from the danger.

They were now in an alley, slightly closer to the heart of the town, but away from danger. James still held the child close, inching towards the opening of The Alley. Once the coast was deemed clear, he sped-walked to the safe-point, depositing the girl and her parents' arms who had come rushing. A few are members were operating the survivors to someplace safer.

James stayed with the survivors until they were all gone, and the Aurors told him to send a patronus if there were any more. He nodded, and they are as were gone to help the survivors get settled in their new home.

After waiting for a few minutes, and nobody showing up, James decided to head back to the battle zone and help out where he could. Upon arriving, he wished he would’ve arrived sooner. It was utter chaos. Choosing to stay hidden behind a wall, he observed the area first.

The ground was littered with bodies, none that he recongnized, and there were spells flying left and right. The Order was surrounded by Death Eaters, some holding up a shield while others threw spells. James saw all of his friends, and his beloved wife covered in blood splatters that he hoped weren’t theirs. He had to think of something to give his friends an escape. After bouncing on his toes behind the wall, he puffed out his chest and walked out.

“Hey!” He yelled. Nobody seamed to hear him, so he used an amplifying charm, holding his wand to his throat. “I said HEY!”

The fighting seemed to cease, The Order still holding their wands at the ready while the Death Eaters looked towards James, their wands also raised. James felt a slight stutter in his heart, as he saw Lily glance slightly towards him, her eyes longing. Sirius had a grin on his face, a classic sign that he wasn’t giving up. James let the pause go on for just a second longer before he spoke:

“Come and get me, bitches.”

James took off in a direction away from the safe-point, just in case there were other survivors that had found their way. He heard footsteps follow after him, but definitely not the whole group of Death Eaters. Some had to stay behind to deal with the rest of the Order.

James kept running, looking behind him to make sure the ones that had followed him were keeping up. James had seen one raise his wand, and James decked to the side, a green curse flying past him. The others had joined in, throwing curses at James as they continued to run, James only shooting back once every few seconds. 

James could see a T coming up ahead and had to make a decision on which way to go. He wasn’t very familiar with this town, and one bad turn could end up badly. James chose to go right, and was relieved because he could see spells flying, meaning he was almost back to where he had started the chase.

As he reached the end however, somebody had rammed into his right side, slamming his body into the wall. He groaned as his glasses were knocked off, and his wand fell out of his hand. He searched around for it before finally grasping it in his hands and holding it up. He could see 4 blurry figured headed his way, as his other hand searched for his glasses.

“Stupify!” he yelled, and he heard a body drop. He finally found his glasses and put them on his face, his eyes adjusting. The other 3 were a lot closer than he has anticipated, and one of them shot and expelliarmus at him. His wand was now in the hands of Death Eaters.

James was breathing heavy as they continued to approach, and he held his hands up, eye slightly wide in fear.

__________________

Lily was an excellent dueler. She knew how to throw of any opponent that she came into contact with, and generally won the duel. She had thrown several Bat-Bogey hexes at the Death Eaters and was trying to get a leg up on the current one in front of her.

It was almost like this one could see which spells she was going to throw next, and after a minute it hit her on why this one wasn’t fighting back.

“Severus?” Lily voiced. The opponent had froze, a second of hesitation. Then he pulled his mask off, letting his hands fall to his sides.

“What are you doi-” she tried to say, but was cut off.

“ATTENTION EVERYONE!” said a gruff voice behind her. Lily turned her head to see 4 bodies come out on an alley. 3 of which Lily could identify as Death Eaters, and the last one as-

“JAMES!” she screamed. She tried to run forward, but Remus caught her but her arm, keeping her still. She tried to struggle out of Remus’ hold, but Remus was too strong.

James was held to the Death Eaters’ chest, foreign wand to his throat, the other around his midsection, as he was forced out of the alley-way.

“Aw, look, Potter. Somebody does care for you. I had my doubts because or your arrogance-”

“LET HIM GO!” Lily screamed again. “LET HIM GO!” she struggled more in Remus’ grasp.

“I’m afraid I can’t do that doll. Potter here has some lessons that he needs to learn before he can rejoin. Of course, that is if he doesn’t die in the process.” the Death Eater sneered. Unable to see his face, Lily couldn’t tell if he was smiling or not.

Before anyone could speak or protest, the Death Eater that was holding James, and speaking, threw James to the ground. He landed on his hands and knees, wincing as the rocks cut open his skin.

Lily wanted to rush to him, hug him like there was no tomorrow, but all of the Death Eaters trained their wands on her as soon as she started to move. 

“Lily, it’s okay,” James began, settling to sit on his knees, hands held out towards Lily to keep her from coming forward. “It’s all going to be fi-”

“Crucio!” the Death Eater shouted. James immediately felt as if hot knives had landed themselves all over his body.

“NO! JAMES!” Lily was once again trying to get to him, Remus having to quickly grab her before she got too far. James tried not to erupt into screams, settling for loud groans, and pained breathing instead. He had doubled over, his forehead resting on the ground, as he tried to fight the pain.

Sirius was furious, he could feel a build up of magic around him, apparently not having exerted himself enough in the battle. Remus could see the white-knuckle grip he had on his wand, and knew he couldn’t stop what was going to happen, so instead he settled for shouting:

“GET DOWN!” And he had to drag Lily down with him. With the rest of the Order down, and the Death Eaters confused, Sirius let his pent up magic go, sending a strong knock-back/stunner jinx at the Death Eaters. The magic flowed around him in a circle (he’s having an Elsa moment), and extended to his opponents.

When the Death Eaters were on the floor, Mary MacDonald had sent a patronus message to the Aurors to get them their ASAP. Remus let go of Lily at the same time James had slumped to the side, not having the energy to keep himself up anymore. His breathing was heavy as Lily reached him, his eyes barely open.

Remus had rushed over to Sirius, helping to steady his boyfriend, having just exerted so much magic into blowing the fuck out of the Death Eaters. 

“James!” Lily whisper-yelled as she approached. Her hands hovered over him for a second before resting both hands on his cheeks, moving his head to look up at her. His eyes opened slightly more, and he let out a breath of relief, as if Lily’s hands had instantly made everything better. 

“I’m sorry, Lily, I’m so so-”

“What are you apologizing for, James? Only you could be cursed and apologize for being hurt.” Lily laughed slightly. James tried, but instantly clenched his eyes shut as pain radiated through his chest. He took a moment to regain himself.

“I’m okay now that you’re here. You make the pain go away.” James smiled. His muscles had relaxed ever so slightly, his body still twitching as an after-effect.

“I’ll believe that when a healer says it.” Lily laughed again, and hugged James gently. When he was feeling better, Remus and Sirius helped him to his feet, and the 4 of them apparated to St. Mungos for treatment. Their friends had followed as well, but respected their space, and gave them some times alone with each other.

A little out of the ordinary

Adverse effects | “This wasn’t supposed to happen”

this work is also published on my AO3 acct: AJ_2905

James had told his friends that he’d catch them in the next class. Truly he meant it. He had been held back to talk to McGonagall after Transfiguration.

James had started to slip in his Sixth Year classes, not doing well on the recent assignments. James had promised that he’d redo the past assignments and that he’d focus more on his schoolwork. He had been starting to put all of his focus into Quidditch, but now that there was a break in matches for Gryffindor for a while, James thought he’d be better about his education.

He was on his way now to his next class, Potions. James had seriously considered skipping, but he didn’t want to go back on his word. As he had turned the corner away from Transfiguration, James had hit his shoulder on the wall, taking the turn too sharp. All of his things had spilled out of his bag, splaying all over the floor.

“Damnit!” He exclaimed. He stayed standing for a little while longer, running a hand through his hair, releasing a deep sigh before bending over and picking up his things. James let out a string of curses, muttering under his breath.

“You kiss your mother with that mouth, Potter?” Somebody had voiced behind him. Already knowing exactly who it was, James had continued to scoop things back into his bag. He really didn’t have time for this right now.

“Shouldn't you be in class Snape? Or are we finally finding the joys in skiving-off?” James had retorted quite casually.

“Aww, what? No more nicknames? Thought you were quite keen on them.” Snape said. He was never one to get straight to the point.

“No, Snape, no more nicknames. Now, was there a reason you’re out of class, talking to me of all people?” James changed the topic, finally looking up at Snape, she had his wand by his side. He had a class to get to after all.

“Straight to the point, Potter? Alright then. I’m just here to remind you to stay away from Lily. She doesn’t need your big ego around, tainting her thoughts.”

“Well,” James started, “if you’d care to look a little deeper, you would see that Lily WANTS to be around me. You know, as well as I do, that I don't dictate who she chooses to hang out with."

James had stood up now, not to his full height, but he wasn't looking to fight Snape. James was trying to keep his word, which he had given to Lily, even if it made Sirius just the slightest bit mad.

"I'm just trying to look out for her, you know, from one friend to another. Just stay away from her, as I said, she doesn't need you tainting her thoughts." Snape used the same point from earlier.

James scoffed. "Snape, Lily hasn't been your friend since you called her-" he stopped himself short.

"What, Potter, called her a what?" Snape had a smirk on his face now.

"I'm not as low as you, but you know what you said." James had bowed his head slightly, uncomfortable with the conversation.

"Your little crush on Lily can't keep her from me, I hope you know that." Snape said.

It wasn't a secret that James had a crush on Lily, he had been open for the longest time, asking her out several times in the Great Hall. However, recently, he had started to be quieter about this fact. He hadn't taken to being so public with her, and only "bothering" her when he really needed help.

"Snape," James laughed, "you and I both know that I've been quieter about that. I haven't even asked her out this term." He used his hands to gesture behind him as if she was standing there.

"That doesn't mean you aren't taint-"

"I'm not tainting anything, Snape. If anything, it's you who's trying to taint her. You just can't get over your obsession with others that you-" James was cut off by Snape flicking his wand, a spell too quiet leaving his lips for James to catch. The spell hit James squarely in the chest.

At first, he didn't feel anything. He just stood there looking at Snape with a confused look.

"James! aren't you supposed to be-" Lily had turned the corner. She was excited upon seeing James, but ran quiet when she saw who else was standing in the hallway. "Oh, hello, Severus." Lily wasn't as enthusiastic saying his name and tugged the books she had closer to herself.

"It was then that James felt it. The slight itch of his skin, and he looked down. His eyes widened as he saw blood coating his white shirt, the one he had finally ironed last night. He looked towards Snape with wide eyes, a betrayed sense in them.

"James?" Lily voiced. He had forgotten Lily was there. He turned, completely forgetting about his front, and Lily screamed. James felt lightheaded at that moment and stumbled to the side. He reached out to catch himself on something, but he just fell onto his side.

Now on the floor, he propped himself up on his elbows, just trying not to pass out. His breathing was getting harder to maintain, and he was beginning to panic. Snape's eyes widened ever-so-slightly, wand still raised, as he looked at James. He shifted his gaze to Lily.

"I- I didn't- Lily-"

"What have you done?!" Lily exclaimed. "What did you do?!" She rushed to James' side. Helping him onto his back, she tried to help him breathe. Snape watched them as he began to back up, wand arm finally wavering. He swiftly turned on his heel after a few seconds and bolted down the hallway.

James was struggling to stay awake, black spots filling his vision as Lily continued to speak panicked to him. His eyes started to drift away from her, bringing his hand up to claw at his chest. Lily screamed for help several times as she tried to keep his hands away.

McGonagall had gotten tired of hearing screams, and trudged her way down to observe what, exactly, was going on. Following the screams for help, she now realized this was urgent and she quickened her steps.

Upon turning the corner, and seeing Lily Evans on the floor with blood on her hands, she ran to her side. As she got closer, she could see James Potter's more undeniable features. His hair still sticking up every which way, and his glasses askew on his face.

James' eyes were still barely open, but they weren't focused on anything. His breathing had gotten slower, his chest rising only slightly with each breath.

"Professor, he needs the Hospital Wing. We have to get him to Madame Pomfrey!" Lily's voice had finally cut through McGonagall's thoughts, and she zipped into action.

Taking her wand out, McGonagall sent an urgent patronus message to Madame Pomfrey and tried to attend to James. She tried to close the openings in his chest, but once she had gotten done, they would splurt out more blood and reopen.

Every time the wounds would close, Jame's eyes would show relief, and his breathing would get stronger. However, when the wounds would reopen, he would wince, and try to struggle away from who was helping him, squeezing his eyes shut. McGonagall decided to stop trying because James' eyes had finally closed, and he wasn't responding any longer.

"What caused this to happen?" McGonagall turned her head to Lily, who had taken over holding the wounds once more. McGonagall's voice was more than filled with concern. There was fear underlying in her voice, that scared Lily.

Lily turned her attention to McGonagall, keeping her hands on James' blood-coated chest. All she had to say was one word:

Harry had talked to Draco before hand about who would walk Harry down the aisle, but he still couldn’t make up his mind. Draco said he didn’t mind, and whoever he chose, he would understand regardless.

On the one hand, he had Arthur Weasley, the man who had always been there for Harry when he really needed it. The man that would make sure Harry had enough to eat, a comfortable place to sleep, and his overall protector.

On the other hand, there was Lucius Malfoy, his future father in law. They had never really seen eye-to-eye, and the only thing they had in common was having Draconis Lucius Alexander Malfoy happy.

Harry had a LOT to think about, and he had to make a choice soon.

~~~~

Once Harry had made up his mind, all he had to do was ask the person. It went a little something like this:

The Malfoy manor was hosting its annual Winter Ball in mid-December, the whole house packed with friends and family. Even though Lucius was against the idea, the Malfoy’s ended up inviting the Weasleys’, and a couple other removed pureblood families.

Draco and Harry were the highlight of the ball, everyone congratulating them for their engagement, and future marriage. Draco, being used to the balls, would say thank you and make small talk with the guests. Harry, while he had his popularity at Hogwarts, was a little more on the shy side with small smiles, staying slightly behind Draco.

Harry had excused himself, when the crowding had gotten too much for him, and retreated to the library of the manor. He didn’t think that anybody would be in the library seeing as the party had lots of socialization, something that purebloods loved.

Even if there were people in the library, the last person Harry had expected to see was Lucius. Lucius was sitting on one of the couches in the common area, book in hand, silently reading. Harry stood fr a moment, contemplating how he would word anything he’d say.

“Out with it, Potter. What’s on our mind?” Lucius had said without looking up from his book.

Harry sputtered, “Wh- um, we’ll I- uh.”

Lucius looked up from his book, one eyebrow raised. Harry looked away from him, fidgeting with his hand behind his back, trying to find something else to look at.

“I hope you do t think I’m going to hurt you, Potter,” Lucius started. “I may not agree with my sons decision, but I assure you if it makes him happy, I won’t mind.”

“Okay- no. Merlin, I’m sorry-“

Harry continued to fidget his hands behind his back, eventually bringing them in front of his body. He took a couple deep breaths, Lucius being oddly patient.

“So, I was wondering- I mean I’ve thought about it for a while- and it’s totally okay if you say no-“ he stopped himself. He was rambling.

“I was wondering,” he paused, looking towards Lucius. “I was wondering if you would walk me down the aisle? Since my parents aren’t here, and you don’t have a daughter to walk down with. And Draco is going to be the one standing at the alter. Obviously you do t have to say-“

“Yes.”

Harry starred. “I’m sorry-“

“I said yes. I’d love to,” Lucius started standing up and walking toward Harry. “Like you said, your parents aren’t around and I do t have a daughter to walk down. I’d be honored to walk you down the aisle for your wedding day. But, are you sure you wouldn’t want Arthur to walk you down?”

Harry had tears in his eyes, trying not to let them slip. “Well, I mean I considered it, but I feel like I already know Arthur well enough, and I feel that I have to do something to prove myself to you. To make you think that I’m good enough for Draco.”

“Harry,” Lucius put a hand on Harry’s shoulder. “Why would you think you need to prove yourself? You’ve already done that, helping my son choose the right path. I thank you for that.”

Harry had started crying now, soft sobs had wracked his body, looking slightly up at Lucius.

“And anyways, it’s not my place to say who my son gets with. I was forced I to marriage for my bloodline, and wouldn’t want him to go through that. If he’s happy, I’ll support it,” Lucius finished wrapping his arms around Harry.

That’s when Harry lost it. Hard sobs going through his body as he, too, wrapped his arms around his future father in law.

Draco had come in to see if Harry was doing better, and upon seeing the scene in front of him, he smiled a little. Lucius looked up, spotting his son, smiled slightly, and gave Harry one last little squeeze. He held him at arms length, and looked over Harry’s shoulder.

Harry turned them, seeing Draco, and started walking towards him. Embracing each other, a small spark went through them. Harry softened his touch.

“I asked him. I did it!” He whispered.

“I know. You did great!” Draco whispered back, mouthing a “thank you” to his father over Harry.

“I love you,” said Harry.

“I love you too.”

1. Favorite place to write.

In my room or outside (Fall/Spring weather)

2. Favorite part of writing.

The things that make me laugh, the love I feel for the characters as I write.

3. Least favorite part of writing.

The time it takes, but I know “quality over quantity” is key, and the better quality my things are, it doesn’t matter how fast or how much I post.

4. Do you have writing habits or rituals?

I like to take a deep breath before I write, and I also like to think about what I’m going to write, think, and listen to music while doing so.

5. Books or authors that influenced your style the most.

There are tons of Wattpad users, especially the created of “The Marauders” series years 1-7, and beyond.

6. Favorite character you ever created.

My current OC Valorine, even though she’s the only one I’ve ever created. But they’ll always be my favorite because they’re my first.

7. Favorite author.

That’s a hard one… I would say JKR but… ya know. So I’d say any author that writes/has written fantasy’s about other realities.

8. Favorite trope to write.

Any Marauders Headcanon ever!!

9. Least favorite trope to write.

Any SHIP that is TOXIC ; (ex. Snily, Hermione/Snape)

10. Pick a writer to co-write a book with and tell us what you’d write about.

Oh goodness… I’d love to write a book with Stephen King! That would be so awesome! I’d think we’d write about a whole other fantasy, and create new creatures with weird names. Something “out of this world”.

11. Describe your writing process from scratch to finish.

It all starts with an idea, that idea branches off as you gather background, more things to go off of, relationships you want to build, when properties you want in your book, heroes, villains, bystanders, etc. Those branches have leaves that go even further into detail, and reach that plot even further! Those leaves fall off one by one, symbolizing those leaves coming together with other leaves from other trees, intertwining other ideas.

In the end, the ideas from this plot are what bring the characters together, and set the story I stone.

12. How do you deal with self-doubts?

I read… yeah sounds stupid, but reading other stories helps me get ideas on how to make mine better, and how I get more and more ideas for my own writings.

13. How do you deal with writers block?

I write, I get an idea in my head, and just write on a separate platform, that gets me going. Pushing myself through a block helps me get past it because I know if I don’t, I’ll never get back into writing.

14. What’s the most research you ever put into a book?

Pft… my first and only one obvi. I’ve done research for names, animal meanings, how to ACTUALLY describe things, all of it.

15. Where does your inspiration come from?

Harry Potter books, Wattpad, anything that had headcanons, etc.

16. Where do you take your motivation from?

I take my motivation from others writing. Seeing the different pictures and scenes in my head gets my creative juices flowing.

17. On avarage, how much writing do you get done in a day?

It really depends on the day. Some days I can get a whole 2,000 - 6,000 words in, others I don’t get any. It just depends on how I’m feeling, and the ideas I have.

18. What’s your revision or rewriting process like?

Reading my own chapters myself. Seeing if it makes sense in my head, and seeing if I can maybe reword my phrasing, or even come up with different synonyms for words.

19. First line of a WIP you’re working on.

“‘Val! Lily! Are you girls almost ready?’ Mrs. Evans says from the kitchen.”

20. Post a snippet of a WIP you’re working on.

"No, of course not, it was you who didn't read that the Nettle doesn't like the same trick twice in a row. It knew what you were doing." Valorine replied for Mary. Everyone turned to her, and looked amazed. "What? I read a little further in the book. Just wanted to make sure before we all got a turn." Valorine explained.

21. Post the last sentence you wrote in one of your WIP’s.

HEY! That’s enough spoilers 😂

22. How many drafts do you need until you’re satisfied and a project is ultimately done for you?

… well… um… moving on

23. Single or multi POV, and why?

… no… I like to do my stories in 3rd Person Omniscient. Meaning that the “Narrator” knows everything. Meaning that it doesn’t matter if I’m writing for one group, or the other, I write almost what everyone is doing / what they know.

24. Poetry or prose, and why?

Prose. Although I do love good poetry, it can be hard to read sometimes.

25. Linear or non-linear, and why?

Linear… I get unorganized with non.

26. Standalone or series, and why?

It really depends on what the book is. I love a good series, but I would also be fine with just a stand-alone.

27. Do you share rough drafts or do you wait until it’s all polished?

I personally like to wait until I have them all polished. And start posting on a regularly schedule, that way people don’t have to wait for the next part for months, because I know that I hate that.

28. And who do you share them with?

No… heh

29. Who do you write for?

Myself, but also for the purpose of others LIKE me.

30. Favorite line you’ve ever written.

… not sure yet…

31. Hardest character to write.

OC’a for sure

32. Easiest character to write.

Sirius Black and James Potter… but at the same time not

33. Do you listen to music when you’re writing?

Sometimes. Sometimes it’s a show I watch, sometimes it’s a movie… whatever I feel like. Heh…

34. Handwritten notes or typed notes?

Yes…

35. Tell some backstory details about one of your characters in your story ________.

My OC… they have a silver eye, and a brown eye. They also have a scar, going from their left eyebrow, down towards their left cheek. Right through the eye. They have some vision, but not a lot…

36. A spoiler for story _________.

… hehe… redemption… hard core… redemption.

37. Most inspirational quote you’ve ever read or heard that’s still important to you.

Not sure yet

38. Have you shared your outline of your story ________ with someone? If so, what did they think of it?

No actually… none of my friends are interested in what I have to write. They just aren’t into the same things I am.

39. Do you base your characters of real people or not? If so, tell us about one.

Yeah… one of my OC’s are based personality wise off of me.

40. Original Fiction or Fanfiction, and why?

Fan-fiction. I love to see how others portray certain characters

41. How many stories do you work on at one time?

1…

42. How do you figure out your characters looks, personality, etc.

… videos… reading… myself… people I see at school.

43. Are you an avid reader?

Eh?

44. Best piece of feedback you’ve ever gotten.

How to fix my comma problem… my English 1 Teacher in 8th grade gave me a sheet… (I’m a Junior now 😂 (11th)).

45. Worst piece of feedback you’ve ever gotten.

None… yet

46. What would your story _______ look like as a tv show or movie?

I’m not sure…

47. Do you start with characters or plot when working on a new story?

Characters… but also the plot… they kind-of come to me as I start working on one thing. But I can’t get an idea if I do t have inspiration.

48. Favorite genre to write in.

Fantasy / Magical

49. What do you find the hardest to write in a story, the beginning, the middle or the end?

Beginning, because you have to introduce everyone. You never know who could be reading, so you want to make sure they feel like an insider, not an outsider.

50. Weirdest story idea you’ve ever had.

… uhh… I have no idea.

51. Describe the aesthetic of your story _______ in 5 sentences or words.

A whole bunch of chaos

52. How did writing change you?

… I got more creative with my life. Helps me see the different aspects, and helped me realize what’s outside my house.

53. What does writing mean to you?

Means it’s a place to escape. I can’t be in my own little world for hours on end.

54. Any writing advice you want to share?

Share what you have out there. It may not go viral at first. But it will get there. Never give up on your writing, and it will help you achieve what you want in life.

James: WHY ARE THESE PEOPLE IN MY HOUSE?

Sirius: *Laughing Hysterically*

Sirius: James- Mate, Are you alright?

James: WHY ARE THEY IN MY HOUSE?

Lily: James... honey, their ghouls. I shouldn’t be answering that...

Sirius: *on the floor dying of laughter*

James: Oh... PARTY TONIGHT WITH THE GHOULS!

Sirius had a hard time in Azkaban because he knew that “his Moony” was suffering alone every full moon.

Remus went through 130 transformations on his own before Sirius escaped Azkaban. That’s from November 11th of 1981, to July 4th of 1993, before Sirius escaped on July 29th (my head canon, but he did escape in July).

Even then, Remus went through 11 more transformations from August 2nd 1993 to May 25th 1994, before the Shrieking Shack and Whomping Willow encounter on June 22 1994 (canonly it happens June 6th, but I’m going based off of Moon calendars from the past.)

Sirius and Remus were reunited that night, although they had seen each other around many other times.

https://www.fullmoon.info/en/fullmoon-calendar/1994.html