Hannah @hannah-and-the-jets - Tumblr Blog

Mar 2, 2022

Pawns of War Chapter 4

Sorry for the break! Since the last time that I updated I graduated college, moved from Florida to California, started a new full time job, and so much more!

Hope you enjoy

Hannah

ao3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/35040154/chapters/92998105

Wattpad: https://www.wattpad.com/1198479479-pawns-of-war-part-4

Read below the cut

“I think Remus is trying to kill us,” Sirius slurred into Ana’s ear. They were in the Gryffindor common room, where a party was in full swing for Sirius’s sixteenth birthday. “What is he even brewing over there?”

Ana and Sirius fell into a fit of giggles while watching Remus argue with James over the concoction of drinks he had made for the night. Frank Longbottom looked on disapprovingly but did not go over to stop the interaction either. Ana could only imagine what the Marauders had bribed him and Alice with to allow a party of this size. Gryffindors of all years were spread throughout the room, under Alice and Frank’s watchful eye. The turnout was great for Sirius’ birthday.

The record player that sat on the side table rattled the couch they were laying on. Ana was forced into the corner tightly, and Sirius was sprawled across her. His head laid in her lap, and he ran his hand along the seam of her leather skirt just admiring the feel of the raised thread.

“Oi, Birthday Boy!” Marlene stumbled over her heels as she made her way over, “Get up here and dance! It’s your bloody party!”

“McKinnon,” Sirius slurred happily, “That is a fantastic idea.” With a great deal of effort, Sirius hoisted himself to a somewhat standing position. The silver rings that he wore every day gleamed in the fireplace’s glow as Sirius held his hand to Ana. “Miss Devon, may I have this dance?”

Unable to control her drunken giggles, Ana took his hand and let him pull her to her feet. They wavered for a second but laughed as Sirius steadied her with a hand on Ana’s hip. “Lead the way, Mr. Birthday Boy!” She shouted over the music.

Ana held onto Sirius’ hand as he made his way through the dancing crowd. The song changed to a fast, energetic beat and the group moved with the groove. Ana let herself move fluidly to the guitar’s line and she shut her eyes. The dancing crowd was packed tightly together to the point that her back was pressed against Sirius’ chest, and her front was against some random Gryffindor. A hand snaked around Ana’s hip and pulled her closer to Sirius. She could feel the buttons along his jean jacket pressing into her back but did not mind one bit.

“I love this song,” Sirius breathed into her ear as they moved.

“Nothing like the orchestras we would dance to!” Ana shouted over her shoulder. Sirius’ barking laugh rumbled across her back before he spun her around so they were facing each other.

“Oh but I bet we could still dance the same!” The lights were bouncing off of his infectious smile, “Take my hand, Ana. Move people! Time for the show!”

“You are ridiculous!”

“Clear the way! Miss Devon is going to grace us with her moves! Move!”

Ana just had to laugh and accept it as Sirius pulled her into position. They clasped hands as Ana brought her hand to his shoulder, and Sirius brought his hand to her waist. They stumbled on the first step but continued on finding their rhythm.

It was stupid and ridiculous ballroom dancing to the music. They laughed and tripped on each other's feet that could not be totally blamed on the alcohol coursing through them, but nevertheless, they stayed upright the whole time. People around them tried their own small movements with a partner, but they were obviously the focal point of attention in the room. Ana spoke as the song started to die down rhythmically, “If you spin me anymore I’m going to be sick, Sirius.”

“If you can’t keep your dinner down, that's on you, love.” Sirius led them to a slower pattern and Ana leaned her head against his chest.

“I’m glad to see all of those classes Walburga paid for are still paying off,” Ana brought her hand down from his shoulder to rest against his chest, but still kept her other hand locked with his.

“Of course, how else would I be able to sweep young socialites off of their feet? My charming good looks?” Ana snorted.

“Definitely not your humbleness.”

“It’s my birthday, give it to me.”

“Absolutely not. If I don’t pop that ego once in a while, your head will go rolling off of your shoulders. Do you want to spend the rest of your life with Nearly Headless Nick?”

“He likes my good looks.”

---

Ana was certain she was going to be sick. She leaned against her broom and tried to steady her breathing. The roar of the crowd was so loud she could barely hear Tommy giving his warm-up speech to the team. Circe tapped her foot against Ana’s leg, and she slowly looked at her. “Don’t be nervous, Devon. We got this.”

“This is for more than just points! It’s for pride!” Tommy cried as the team screamed their approval.

“If he makes us hiss like snakes I’m going to lose my mind,” Ana muttered to Circe, who in turn snorted.

“Alright, line up! We’ll be starting soon!” Everyone grabbed their brooms, Ana and Andrew Krump grabbed their bats as well. The team filed into two lines behind a tarp that covered the entrance to the pitch. The roar of the crowd was deafening, but she could hear the announcer’s voice over it. Leading them out was Tommy Greengrass and Regulus, as captain and seeker.

“Let’s go kick their bloody asses, eh, Devon.” Andrew and she knocked their bats together, and the tarp opened. The crowd screamed as the Slytherin team entered the pitch, some approving and some not. It was so bright outside that Ana felt blinded for a second but confidently marched out with the rest of her team. The announcer called for the Gryffindor team, and she watched as they continued out as well.

“Mount!” Tommy yelled. Everyone but Tommy climbed onto their brooms, “Go!”

The Slytherin team took to the sky. They had been out earlier today for their warmups, so they were ready and eager to start the game. Ana rolled her shoulders and leaned forward on her broom. The Gryffindor team then took flight, Tommy and James were shaking hands still on the ground. Marlene stayed on Gryffindors side of the pitch but was direct across from Ana. She winked and flipped her off as the game began.

It was fast and energetic. Both teams fought hard and were a little dirty, though they were not being called out for it. The bludgers were being smacked around so violently that Ana’s right arm had started to hurt. She did not want to switch to her left arm, as it was less powerful, but thought that it might be necessary on the next hit. Ana circled the Slytherin’s side of the pitch watching Marlene and the other beater, as they were protecting their teammates from the bludgers.

Ana watched Marlene dive for the bludger making its way to James and struck it hard with a scream. Ana assessed where the bludger was heading and her stomach dropped as she watched it make its way towards Regulus fast, who had spotted the snitch.

In total it must have only been a few seconds, but to Ana, it felt like hours. She made eye contact with Andrew Krump, and speed in front of him towards Regulus. She was the faster flyer and they both knew it. At the speed the bludger was moving, it would cause serious damage to Regulus. She had to stop it.

She could barely make out what the announcer was screaming, “The Bludger is going straight for Black! Devon is on the move!” The noise of the crowd was pounding into her head, and the wind was whipping her cheeks so badly it hurt.

“Devon!” Andrew threw his bat to her as they whipped down the pitch. They were so close to Regulus, who was so focused on chasing the snitch. Ana could make out the glimmer of gold in front of him. She caught the second bat under her arm and dove faster. They had done this at practice before, just messing around, but even Andrew was not going to take the chance of someone getting seriously hurt.

“Devon has both bats for the Slytherin team!” The crowd roared louder, “Is this allowed?!”

In one fluid movement, Ana grabbed the second bat from under her arm and wrapped her legs tighter around the broom. She prayed that it would keep her upright as she crossed the bats against one another and the bludger connected. Ana screamed as she put all of her force behind the bats.

With a defined crack, the bludger flew out well past the pitch. Ana dropped the bats and grabbed onto her broom as she was forced backward. Her stomach dropped as she felt her broom starting to drop. The crowd's screams turned to cries as they watched her start to go down.

Ana shut her eyes, knowing what was coming.

Then, an arm grabbed her waist and pulled them into their side. “I got her!” James yelled. Ana opened their eyes and almost vomited when she saw how close to the ground they were.

“Regulus Black has caught the snitch! Slytherin wins!”

Ana grabbed onto James’ middle as he slowly lowered them to the ground. They immediately fell onto their bottoms, and Ana’s broom split into two when it touched the ground. There was so much movement around them, and Ana was so dizzy.

“Lay down, Ana.” James pushed her back, and tried to shield her eyes from the sun, “Pomfrey is almost here.”

“Get off her, Potter!” She could hear Tommy yell from somewhere close.

“Not bloody likely!” James spat back.

“How did her broom split!?” Someone yelled. Everyone was still screaming and shouting, and Ana groaned. Nothing made sense, she felt like she had taken the bludger to the head.

“Out of the way! Out of the way!” Pomfrey yelled. She knelt next to Ana and James, and immediately waved her wand over Ana’s chest. “Did you channel anything into that block?”

“I don’t know.” Ana cried. Her chest was pounding, and her body felt like it was on fire.

“Albus! Get the stands cleared! Minerva, tell St. Mungos to send a team for a core injury!” Pomfrey was giving out orders, and was leaving no room for questioning, “Everyone else, go get cleaned up.”

Ana could barely think. Her body felt like there was a fire raging from her chest and down through every limb. “P-Pomfrey. It hurts,” She cried.

Ana felt a hand on her forehead, “I know, I know. It’s your magical core. You must have directed so much magic into that last hit and it had no channel since you weren’t casting. I have to get you to St. Mungos.”

“Anastasiya!” She opened her eyes, but everything was clouded by her tears.

“Mr. Black, go back with the rest of the students!”

“Sirius!” Ana cried. She held out her hand and felt his hand encase hers. The rings he always wore felt cool against her heated skin.

“The team is here!” Professor McGonagall yelled from a distance away. The pain was getting worse, and Ana started to scream in pain. She could hear footfall as people ran to them, and the team barked out orders. Sirius dropped her hand, as she continued to cry. Ana was convinced this is what death must feel like.

“Immobulus!” A deep voice commanded, and Ana felt herself stop moving. She was not aware that she had been twitching until she stopped. Her body still felt like it was burning from the inside; however, she found herself unable to move her jaw even. She sobbed from behind her closed mouth and tears flowed freely.

She opened her eyes, and there were three wizards and one witch standing over her running different diagnosis spells. Pomfrey was stating different things like Ana’s age and standard health things as the team worked.

“Ana,” the witch leaned over her to look her in the eyes, “I know it hurts. It’s going to be over in one second.”

She tried to nod, but still couldn’t. Where was Sirius?

The team worked frantically muttering different spells and charms over her body. Finally, the witch pointed her wand at Ana’s heart, “I’m sorry, love, this is going to hurt, but then it will be so much better. Mente et corpore melius.”

Ana could not recall what happened after that moment. Pain ripped through her so violently that she had blacked out as it spread out from her chest. When Ana came to she was being levitated onto a stretcher that was next to her. She turned her head to the side and saw Sirius sobbing while Professor McGonagall held onto him to keep him from coming any closer. James and Remus stood next to them with Headmaster Dumbledore.

“I have the portkey ready to go.” That same deep voice said, “Have her parents been notified?”

Headmaster Dumbledore cleared his throat before speaking, “They should be there already.”

Unknown to Anastasiya, Regulus stood at the edge of the pitch, refusing to leave.

---

The first time Anastasiya went flying, she was petrified. She was seated in front of her father who kept a tight grip on her, but she was still convinced that they would fall. Ana had sobbed the whole flight, clutching onto the handle next to her father’s hand. When they landed, Ana clung to her father so tightly, and he had just laughed. She must have been six years old.

The first time Ana had gone flying with the Black brothers, she was better prepared. Her mother had agreed to let them go without an adult, on the condition they would not tell Ana’s father or the Blacks. The children were ecstatic to be playing outside unsupervised, besides Tiffy watching from the ground. It was early summer in Canterbury, and the air smelled like sunshine and freshly cut grass. They raced to the shed, Sirius beating Ana and Regulus.

Once they were off the ground, it was like the sky knew. Every cloud disappeared, the sun shined brighter, and the air was crisp. The three of them chased each other in circles pretending to be Quidditch players.

“I am going to be a seeker when I get to Hogwarts!” Regulus shouted as he raced past Ana.

“I’m going to be a beater! I want to hit things!” Sirius laughed chasing past him.

Ana did not follow them, instead of leaving herself suspended. She looked past the property line, but could only see more green hills that met the horizon. Flowers bloomed occasionally on the hills. Their colors were a cheerful burst against the dark green grass.

“What about you, Ana? What position?” Sirius glided over and sat there suspended in the sky.

“I don’t know,” Ana mused, “I just like feeling like I’m floating.”

“Floating?” Sirius questioned.

“I feel weightless right now… Like it’s just me above the ground, and I never want to go back down.” Sirius cocked his head to the side and shook his head.

“You are something else, Anastasiya Devon.”

“Maybe your Patronus will be a bird!” Regulus rushed overhead, spinning upside down as he passed over Sirius and Ana.

“I think I would like to float too.” Sirius smiled.

When Anastasiya had woken up after being rushed to St. Mungos, she felt like she was floating before she opened her eyes. Her limbs were weightless, her mind was clear, and her body was from stress. It was almost euphoric.

It would have been perfect until she felt a hand running through her hair. It pulled her back to reality so abruptly, pain flooded Ana’s head. She groaned and clamped her eyes down harder.

“Sweetheart?” Her mother’s voice was drenched in concern, “Are you awake, darling? Alyosha, go get the Healer!”

Anastasiya wanted to open her eyes, but she feared she would be sick if she did. She tried to convey this to her mother, but could only moan pitifully in pain.

“Oh, Anastasiya, the Healer will be here in just a minute.” A door opened and people shuffled in. A high pitch voice spoke in an unfamiliar language, and immediately relief spread through her head and down her spine. Ana sighed in relief and fluttered her eyes open.

Her mother’s face was the first thing that came into focus. Her worry was clear on her sharp features, as tears ran down her face. “Oh, sweetheart, you are okay. You’ll be right as rain soon, my love.”

“Ms. Devon,” Ana looked to the Healer on her left. Vaguely, she could remember it was the same witch that had been there at the Quidditch pitch. She was of shorter stature and had bright orange hair that was pulled into a tight knot on her head. She cast a quick Lumos and pointed it in Ana’s eyes, “Pupils are looking normal. How are you feeling? Can you feel everything?”

“Yes,” Ana replied roughly. Her throat was sore, but the rest of her felt much better now. Maybe just a little achy in some parts. “What happened?”

The Healer put down her wand, “Ms. Devon, how much do you know about magical cores?”

“Nothing really.”

“Well, every witch and wizard has a core inside of them. It’s located next to their heart, and it’s where our magic stems from. There’s still research being done, but we’re fairly certain that only witches and wizards have them. Though it is a little hard and unethical how the research goes. “ With the wave of the Healer’s wand, a bright golden ball of light shot out of Ana’s chest. Past it, she could see her father standing in the corner of the room, not looking back at her. “That being said, we don’t know why but sometimes these cores can… Overexert themselves. Now, your headmaster tells me that you are a beater, and you made quite a powerful shot before dropping, right? I believe that you put so much power behind it, and used quite a bit of magic also. Your core couldn’t handle it.”

Ana’s father scoffed. Every head in the room turned to look at him. “You think this is a case of overexertion?” He provoked.

“Alyosha...” Her mother started. She still stood by Ana’s side, clutching her hand.

“Overexertion is a muscle ache! Clearly, something is wrong with her magical core, and if this asinine institute would listen to a qualified researcher, like myself, they would --” “Mr. Devon,” The Healer cut him off, “I am more than qualified to make the diagnosis of her overexerting her magical core. I understand that your background is in this field; however, you are not qualified in wizarding England to handle this. If you have an issue with this institute, you can take it up with Wizemgot, not me. Now, if you cannot sit there and let me speak with my patients, I have no problem having you removed from my hospital.”

Ana’s mother gripped her hand tighter and openly glared at her father. Ana felt a rush of embarrassment as her father collapsed dramatically in a chair in the corner of the room. “Now, Ms. Devon,” The Healer turned back to her and recast the spell that showed the golden ball above her, “This is your magical core, and see at how this section-” She pointed to the bottom right above Ana’s chest that was contracting and releasing slowly, “- is pulsating like that. It’s a clear indication of magical overexertion. Based on how you are doing now compared to this morning, if you get plenty of rest, you should be back to Quidditch practice by next week.”

“Thank you, Healer.” Her mother said earnestly.

“Of course,” The witch smiled at her and then turned back to Ana, “We are going to keep you here for the night, and your parents are more than welcome to stay. In the morning, your head of house will come and bring you back to Hogwarts.”

“Thank you,” Ana croaked hoarsely.

“I was a chaser for Ravenclaw a few years back. I heard all about the stunt you pulled to end up here, and that it was nothing short of amazing.“Did you really strike the bludger with both bats for Slytherin?” Ana nodded, and the Healer shook her head in bewilderment, “How on Earth did you not go toppling over is beyond me.”

The Healer left the room, leaving Ana alone with her parents for the first time since term began. Her mother choked on a sob and then wrapped her arms tightly around Ana’s shoulder. “You gave us such a fright, darling,” Her mother tried to laugh but it came out wetly. Ana finally let herself breathe, and realized just how scared she had been too.

“Something seemed wrong with the bludgers,” Ana said, “They were going too fast. Regulus was going to get hurt.”

“Oh, darling, someone would have caught it before the game started.” Her mother pulled back and pushed back Ana’s hair affectionately, “It doesn’t matter now. Everyone is safe. You have been declared healthy, and you get a night off from homework.”

“I’ll have the house-elves set up your bedroom,” Her father gruffed from the corner.

“What for? I’m not to return home until the holidays.”

“You obviously have not been examined thoroughly here, and I want to determine what has caused this. These healers are not equipped to handle such an undertaking of advance mag-”

“Alyosha,” Her mother scolded, “That is enough. If the Healer has determined that all she needs is some rest, then we should abide by that. Merlin knows we don't need to raise any attention to ourselves. Anastasiya will stay here to rest tonight and then return to Hogwarts tomorrow. Maybe you should find a mediwitch and ask about transfiguring accommodations for us to stay with her tonight.” She left no room in her suggestion.

Her father did not fight back and left the room. With her mother’s full attention, Ana felt at ease. “When Professor McGonagall came through that floo that said that you had fallen off of your broom, I think it took years off of my life.” She joked. Her eyes were red with tears, but she smiled through them. Although Ana had last seen her a few months ago, she noted how disheveled her mother looked. There were deep bags under her eyes, the beginning of wrinkles on her forehead, and a few stray grey hairs at her temples.

“I’m so sorry,” Ana felt her tears coming back, “I don’t know how it happened. One minute I was hitting the bludger, the next James was catching me and I was on fire.”

“It’s okay, don’t work yourself up.” Her mother untangled herself completely from Ana’s embrace and sat on a chair to the left of Ana’s bed. She held onto her hand though, “Have you been stressed by the semester? Maybe that would contribute to it?”

“I haven’t been stressed about school. I’m making some of the top marks in my grade, and I have great friends. I -”

“I have heard about your friends, and about that little scene they caused on Halloween.” Ana did not meet her eye, “Imagine our surprise when we heard that the Black brother you are often found with was not Regulus.”

“Mother-” Ana started to defend Sirius and the rest of her friends.

“No.” She reprimanded, “Your father and I have kept you out of so much of this war, that I am sure you know about. And here you are, fraternizing with the bastard son of the Black’s and his little group of lions. Your father is working so hard every day to protect you, and the least you could do is remember your place as his heir. I understand that you were great friends with Sirius as children, but we cannot risk you being around him. Do you understand?”

“I got thrown into a war that I do not even understand, Mother. No one will tell me anything, and worst of all I have to hear that Father is doing dealings with -” Her mother waved her hand and Ana’s mouth clamped down. She struggled and found that her teeth would not part. Ana made a distressed sound trying to talk.

“Anastasiya,” Her mother held her hand out, keeping Ana’s mouth shut, “You do not know what you are talking about. Furthermore, you never know when someone is listening. When you come for the holidays we will be talking about this further, but for now, you will leave it alone. Do you understand?” Ana nodded furiously. “Good. Now, none of this once your father returns.”

Her mother had never used magic like that on her before. Mrs. Black had used it against Sirius so much during her childhood that Ana’s mother vowed to never use it on her. So, it shocked Ana so deeply that she almost did not know how to respond.

They sat there in silence until her father returned.

---

Professor Slughorn had come to collect Anastasiya the next morning. The Head Healer had cleared her to return to school and had immediately sent an owl reflecting that she was in good health now.

There was no mention of her mother’s use of magic on her yesterday. It hung between them unspoken, and it clouded the room. Her mother was tense and unyielding, but still painted the picture of a devoted mother whenever her father was in the room. It unsettled Ana, who only knew her mother warm and kind. She did not bring up to her father, even when they did have an alone moment. Ana feared his response.

The family, Professor Slughorn, and a mediwitch all walked to the public floo to say their goodbyes. Her mother had brought one of Ana’s stiff day gowns to wear back to Hogwarts, claiming that looking presentable would make her feel better. Ana felt like the high collar was suffocating her.

When they reached the floo network, her father quickly wrapped Ana in his strong arms. She melted into his touch, feeling safe. Surely, he would not do the same to me, Ana thought. She bargained with herself that maybe her mother had simply been too stressed the day before. She was not acting like herself.

Her mother then embraced her tightly. She was still much taller than Anastasiya, so she bent down to whisper, harshly “We’ll talk during the holidays. Keep your head down, and stay out of trouble.”. Ana nodded against her chest, the rest of her frozen.

“Ms. Devon,” Professor Slughorn held out the bowl of floo powder, “After you, my dear. Just say Hogwarts, Dumbledore’s Study. I’ll be right behind you.”

Ana picked up the powder and stepped over the hearth. “See you soon, darling!” Her mother called.

Ana smiled timidly and then called out Hogwarts. Panic rose through Ana as the green flames engulfed her, and pulled at her center. She had floo-ed many times before with her family, but she never would get used to that rush. In less than a second, she came tumbling out of the fireplace into Headmaster Dumbledore’s office. Ana steadied herself before she tripped, and Professor McGonagall rushed to her side.

“Bit of a bumpy trip?” Professor McGonagall moved her out of the way for Professor Slughorn to join them. Anastasiya had never been in the Headmaster’s office before and took a moment to study it. There were vast amounts of paintings of past Headmasters, who sat snoozing in their frames. The circular room housed many shelves and tables filled with a number of silver instruments that whirled and made little puffs of smoke. In the center of the room was an enormous oak desk, and behind that, there was a shelf that housed the Sorting Hat. Headmaster Dumbledore stood next to the desk. “Your Healer sent an owl early this morning. You will be reporting to Madame Pomfrey twice a week now, just to monitor and make sure you are okay. Then, we can determine when you can rejoin the Quidditch team.”

“Lemon drops!” A muffled voice cried from outside the room. The adults turned to the staircase, as they shouted, “Acid berries!”

Professor McGonagall sighed heavily, “They are getting closer to figuring it out, Albus. You are going to need to change the password again. Who knows the havoc that group will wreck if they have access to your office.”

“Minvera, it is alright. They are simply worried about their friend.” Dumbledore smiled kindly, as someone, who sounded like Lily, yelled pixie pumpkin porridge. “Although, I would like to request a moment with Ms. Devon, alone please.”

“Certainly, Headmaster.” Professor Slughorn and Professor McGonagall left them.

“How are you feeling, Ms. Devon? You gave everyone quite a fright.” Dumbledore sat behind his desk and motioned for Ana to sit across from him in a chair that sprung from the ground.

“Much better now. I didn’t know that was going to happen. I didn’t mean to channel my magic or whatever the Healer thought.” Professor Dumbledore nodded. He grabbed a small bowl on his desk and opened the lid. He held it out to her, and there were all different types of colorful candies.

“They are Sugared Butterfly Wings. Quite delicious.”

“No, thank you, Headmaster.” Ana ran her finger down the details of her long sleeve. There was intricate needlework of dainty flowers and vines all along the dress. “Is there something, in particular, you wished to speak about?”

“I’m afraid so, Ms. Devon.” Headmaster Dumbledore took the bowl back and popped one of the wings into his mouth. Ana swore it fluttered for a second. “It’s quite unusual for us to accept a student in the middle of their education. And even more peculiar is that a student doesn’t want to acclimate with their fellow housemates. I understand that Slytherin has its more defensive people; however, is something going on that I need to be made aware of?”

Anastasiya stopped. Obviously, Dumbledore had to know about Sirius and his escape to the Potters. That would mean that he had to know that Regulus still lived there and that Ana had been close with him as well. Was he asking if she knew if anyone was marked?

As Ana debated on what to share, she felt a familiar tug at her mind. Her father was a skilled legilimens, who would only use it on her when she was in trouble. Anastasiya was not the most skilled occlumens, but she had quickly learned how to switch her train of thought when someone tried to see into her thoughts. She was confused, why had he felt it necessary to go into her mind?

She quickly thought of running through the halls with the Marauders, gossiping with the girls, flying with the Quidditch team, and any other happy memory she could throw up in defense. The tugging sensation grew, and Ana threw out one of arguing with Elaine about befriending the Marauders. It had not been a serious fight, but it seemed to satisfy Headmaster Dumbledore. The tugging stopped.

“Nothing out of the ordinary, Headmaster.” Anastasiya replied coldly, “Just normal house unity problems. Maybe something should be done to encourage more students to associate with other houses. Could help with some of the problems.”

“Our goal is always unity, Ms. Devon.” Headmaster Dumbledore accepted her answer and leaned back into his seat. “I believe that your friends are still waiting for you outside. You may go.”

Ana stood quickly and walked up the spiraling staircase. She needed to leave, to think. Her father had taught her that legilimens should only be used with justification, like a parent needing the truth from an unyielding child, or against someone meaning you harm. Did Dumbledore see her as a lying child? Or an enemy?

As she raced up the stairs, Ana could hear the voices clearer. She reached out for the door handle and suddenly felt the tugging in her mind again. This time it was stronger. Anastasiya gasped, and the feeling was gone. Scandalized, she froze. It was an intrusion, her father had said. Legilimency was not something to be used lightly, but here was her Headmaster using it twice on her.

“Minnie, I swear I will show up to every detention I get for the rest of the semester!” Outside of the door, Ana could hear Sirius bargaining with Professor McGonagall.

“I am not Minnie to you, Mr. Black, and I will not give you the password. You will also make note that you are to attend every detention that is assigned to you!”

The door creaked as Anastasiya opened it. It was a Sunday, so the Marauders and girls stood there in their casual clothes. Professor McGonagall was standing in the middle of the group with Sirius directly next to her. Everyone’s faces lit up as they turned to face Ana, and stepped out of the way to let Sirius rush to her.

Sirius wrapped his arms around Ana like she was a lifeline. They teetered for a second, but Ana kept them upright while Sirius squeezed her. Ana brought her hands up to his neck and clutched onto his shoulders. She was just tall enough to see everyone over his shoulder, the relief on the group’s faces was palpable. Anastasiya smiled and let the relief wash over her. Sirius started to blubber in her ear, “They wouldn’t tell us anything, just that you were under observation at St. Mungos and that your family was with you. And then Madam Pomfrey got a letter this morning at breakfast, and Remus found out that they said that you were coming back today by floo. We were so worried that you weren’t okay, or that they would send you back to your family for the rest of term, or that something truly awful had happened.”

“Shhh,” Ana rubbed his back, as he clutched tighter to her. Any worry that she had about the past two days bled out of her, “I’m okay. It’s all okay.”

---

“You two are going to get hurt! Stop that!” Lily scolded. Sirius sat on James’ shoulders, and the pair spun in circles in the pathway. Sirius stuck out his tongue, trying to catch the falling snowflakes. “James Fleamont Potter! Put him down!”

“Don’t say that, Evans,” Remus laughed from next to her, “It will only encourage the idiots.”

The pathway to Hogsmead was slick with ice, and Lily was right. On the next full turn, James lost his footing and the boys came crashing down. Sirius groaned as his back hit the pavement, and James landed on top of him. Remus, Lily, and Ana grimaced as they watched them roll on the ground.

“Fuck, Prongs.” Sirius rolled onto his side, “I think I broke my spleen. Do I have a spleen?”

“It’s not my fault you’re so heavy, Padfoot!” James pushed himself up.

“Take that back!” Sirius cried.

“Idiots. Why are we stuck with idiots?” Lily linked her arms with Remus and Ana and guided them past the boys, who started to wrestle in the snow. Ana giggled behind her hand as she stepped around where Sirius had James pinned to the floor, making him scream uncle.

“And why do we keep them around?” Remus laughed. The trio moved slowly down to the small village, and the boys eventually followed after they had their fill. Snow fell steadily around them and covered the village with a white cast. Hogsmead was decorated for Christmas, and students ran in and out of the different storefronts looking for last-minute presents.

“I have finished my shopping. What about you two?” Lily tightened her grip around their arms.

“I’m good.” Remus confirmed.

“Me too.” Ana thought about the gifts that she had in her trunk for her friends. Most were candies or chocolates that she had noticed that her friends frequented, but for Lily, she found a self-inking quill that never ran out of ink; for Remus, she ordered a particularly large order of chocolate frogs; for James, a new pair of dragonhide gloves for quidditch; and for Sirius, a gift set from Zonko’s. Ana thought it was impersonal, but she had no idea what to get Sirius. She knew he would be grateful for anything, but it felt wrong somehow. “Fantastic,” Lily turned her head to look behind them, “Potter! Black! Finish your shopping and meet us at Broomstick!”

“Yes, ma’am!” James grabbed Sirius and directed him into Spintwitches Sporting Needs.

Ana shivered as the trio entered the warm pub. The chatter of different conversations rang around them as they made their way deep into the room. They found a table big enough to accommodate everyone they knew would eventually join them along the back wall, and started to take off their outer cloaks. Ana reached up to undo the clasps along her torso, as Remus asked the witches for their drink order. He handed his undone cloak to Lily and walked back towards the bar. The witches sat down across from each other.

“Merlin, I can’t wait for the holidays.” Lily fiddled with the ring in her hand. She had explained to Ana that it was a muggle invention called a mood ring. Ana was shocked that muggles had been able to control crystals to that extent, and Lily had simply laughed so hard that she snorted. “I mean, I have to brave my sister and her fiance, but I miss my parents so much.” Ana leaned her head against her hand, “Do Muggles have any traditions?”

“Depends on the family. Mum makes us go to midnight mass, and we make mince pies together. Nothing too crazy though. What about you, purebloods? James’ Christmas sounds pretty similar to ours.”

“Devon's holidays are a little different.” Ana laughed, “We do Christmas like everyone else, but the grand event is the Winter Solstice. Mother’s parties for each solstice are exquisite, I’m sure she’s been planning this one since last year.”

“What are those like?” Lily asked, intrigued, “The idea of balls and parties is so exciting.”

“You grow tired of them quickly as you grow older,” Ana sighed but still smiled, “I liked going to them as a child, as Sirius and Regulus were always there as well. But now… I have to play the perfect hostess with my Mother. Wandering from one stuck up pureblood to the next, all the while having my chest constricted so much by whatever absurd gown my Mother sticks me in.”

Remus leaned over Ana’s shoulder and set three butterbeers on the table. Ana grabbed the warm cup and let her fingers warm-up before she continued, “As a child, the three of us would run around the solstice parties causing trouble, and they are still some of my fondest memories.”

“I can’t imagine Sirius attending those now. I mean, I’ve seen the pictures he has of you guys from those parties, and even as children you were dressed to the nines!” Lily expressed before taking a big sip from her cup.

“Why are the solstices such a big deal anyway?” Remus asked.

“It’s all for show,” Ana turned around and Sirius and James stood there, multiple bags in hand. Sirius sat next to Ana, and James went to the other side with Lily and Remus. Sirius then continued, “While purebloods still celebrate Christmas, they needed some way to feel different from muggles. Hence the solstice party during the winter, and if you’re going to celebrate in the winter, you might as well throw a party during the summer too.”

“Father claims it because it makes our magic stronger,” Ana interjected, “Though, I haven’t seen much research to back it up.”

“Any reason is a good reason to party, love.” Sirius stole Ana’s butterbeer and took a glug. “Are you required to play happy heiress this solstice, Ana?”

“Of course I am,” Ana took the drink back, “Mother informed me that she already approved the sketches the seamstress sent her back in November. I think it’s the seamstress your mother recommends, so Merlin only knows what I’ll end up in.”

“Who knows,” Sirius leaned on the table and faced Ana completely, “Maybe it will be something scandalous. Lady Devon will parade you around for all of those young eligible bachelors that will be there.”

“Bite your tongue, Black.” Ana laughed, “I don’t think Mother is trying to marry me off yet.”

“Mine was when I was your age,” Sirius took the butterbeer back, making no effort to get his own.

“Your age,” Ana rolled her eyes, “You make it sound like you're ancient already, and not just a year older.”

“Ahem,” James cleared his throat. Ana and Sirius whipped their heads to look at him, “If you would like to join our conversation you're more than welcome to.”

Ana felt her cheeks heating up, suddenly embarrassed. She glanced at Sirius and noted that his cheeks were twinged pink as well. Ana had not noticed that she turned to face Sirius while they talked. James turned back to Lily and Remus who were talking about their winter holiday plans.

Sirius leaned back in his seat and rested his arm over the back of Ana’s chair. Ana rested back into his touch and did not turn to look at him. Though if she had to guess, his face would probably be even pinker.

The five of them went through a couple of butterbeers and many other students fluttered by their table, stopping for a conversation or drink. It started with Frank Longbottom coming over to make sure the marauders were not scheming. Then Peter, who only stopped to ask James a question, claimed he was too busy shopping for his family to stop and stay with the group. Marlene and Mary waved at them from across the pub where they sat with a pair of sixth-year Ravenclaw boys.

The group was feeling warm from their butterbeers and laughing so hard. It was almost poetic that it was a cup of cold water that broke up their concentration. Ana gasped as the water drenched her back and down her skirt. She jumped up as the cold water soaked through her shirt. Sirius was right by her side, glaring at Severus.

“What the fuck was that for?!” Sirius exclaimed. Only his sleeve was wet, but he was already grabbing his wand.

“It was an accident, you mutt.” Severus did not make a move for his wand, but Barty already had his out. Regulus stood behind him, holding his own drink. The pub went silent, waiting to see how the scene would unfold.

“It’s just some water, Sirius. No harm.” Ana placed her hand on Sirius to bring him back, but he planted himself down harder.

“Stay the fuck away from us, Snivellus.” Sirius gripped his wand harder.

“Are you going to control your mutt, Devon? Or do you have him on a longer leash than we all realized?” Severus challenged.

“Snape,” Regulus commanded. Every eye in the pub moved to the younger Black brother, “There is a table in the corner over there. Let’s go.”

Regulus looked at his fuming brother and then at Ana. Ana still had her hand on Sirius' arm and tightened it as they locked eyes. Regulus’ expression softened for a second before he walked between Severus and Sirius. The tension in the group broke as Severus and Barty followed him to the open table. The pub broke into an explosion of sound as the moment passed.

Lily muttered a drying spell, and Ana’s back dried instantly. Sirius continued to glare at the Slytherins, while Ana tried to coax him into sitting back down. “It was an accident, Sirius, nothing more. Leave it be.”

“Come on,” James grabbed his cloak and stood, “Let’s just get out of here before anything else happens.”

The group collected their outerwear and tugged it on while making their way to the exit. No one but Remus and James spoke as the group moved. Every table watched them as they passed, and immediately broke out into loud whispers. Ana rolled her eyes and focused her attention on where her hand rested on Sirius's back. She tried to argue that she was guiding him towards the exit, but she was lying to herself.

The air outside the pub was crisp and biting at Ana’s cheeks. She shivered and pulled her cloak tighter around her shoulders. The snow was coming down in light flurries still. “It was just water, Sirius,” He huffed and didn’t turn to look at her, “Don’t let it ruin the day. Anyone could have done it.”

“But of course, it was him, Ana.” Their group started to make their way through the village slowly. Everyone gave them a wide berth and trailed behind Sirius and Ana as they argued. “Everything he does is to mess with us.”

“Throwing water on someone is not his style. Severus might be a tosser, but he is not an idiot. Don’t let this ruin today because you can’t see a mistake for what it is.”

Sirius stopped and looked at her. It was clear that he wanted to say something, that it was on the tip of his tongue, but the moment was ruined by Remus shouting behind them. Sirius and Ana turned to look at how much further they were than the rest of the group, “Hey, you two! Once Pads gets over himself, meet us at Honeydukes! We’re getting hot chocolate!” They made their way into the store, leaving the two of them out in the snow. Finally facing each other, Ana watched Sirius look so unsure of his next move. As the door closed behind the marauders, it left them in complete silence. Not another student or resident was in the street beside them.

“What was that with Regulus?” Sirius asked, “I thought you two weren’t friends anymore.”

“We’re not,” Ana replied puzzled, “What do you mean what was that?”

“I don’t know…” Sirius looked at his feet and kicked a rock. He was stalling, “Something just didn’t seem right. Like why would he get Snape to walk away? Do you two still talk or something?”

“I never took you for the jealous type, Black,” Ana held her face stoically, “I just told you we are not friends. Why can’t you take my word on that?”

“Because it was odd!” Sirius cried out, “You don’t think that was odd, too?”

“Maybe he just didn’t want to cause a scene in the middle of a pub, Sirius! Maybe he saw Severus' trip and knew that it was an accident! Why can’t you just accept that?”

“Everything that Severus has ever done has been calculated and planned, Ana. You weren’t there for any of it, but he goes out of his way to cause pain on us and Lily! Do you know that Lily only became our friend truly this year? He had known since they were children and he still said the most horrible about her at the end of last spring… I just think that it’s weird!” “You’re being irrational,” Ana sighed, “Let’s not do this today. It’s our last weekend before the winter holidays, and I don’t want to fight with you about Severus or your brother or anyone else. If we can’t find a solution, can we at least bottle this for now and go join our friends?”

Sirius nodded and they walked to Honeydukes silently. A bell chimed as Sirius opened the door and let her pass through. Students pushed past them in every direction, laughing and shrieking. The energy in the small shop was almost palpable. Everyone was excited.

It was easy to find their group towards the back of the shop. Remus’ head was visible above the displays on the sales floor, Lily was directing the crowd like the dutiful Prefect that she was, and James was sitting on the staircase that led up to the second floor. The three of them were holding cups of hot chocolate, and two more steaming cups were levitating next to James. Sirius maneuvered around the other students to go sit with James. Anna passed by them to pick up her cup, and then went to lean against the shelves with Remus.

“Doesn’t this count as loitering?” Ana asked and blew into her cup to cool down the drink.

“Nah, Lils is prefect-ing,” Remus slung his arm over her shoulders. “Is he honestly brooding over spilled water?”

Ana sighed, “He thinks that it was intentional. What’s your English saying? Don’t cry over spilled sap?”

“Milk,” Remus laughed, “Don’t cry over spilled milk.”

“Well, apparently Sirius Black cries over spilled water. Honestly, it was just some water. Why does he have to be so dramatic?” Ana finally sipped on her drink.

“I think Sirius would literally keel over if he had to go a whole day without being dramatic.” Remus teased, “He just cares too much about all of us. His heart is big and he wears it on his sleeve.”

“Sometimes I wish he would just wear it in his chest where it's supposed to be. Would save me a headache or two.”

“You don’t mean that.” Ana looked up at Remus puzzled, “You are so guarded with everyone else. You laugh along and help with pranks, but no one but him truly gets to tap into that little fabulous mind of yours. There’s nothing wrong with that. You just hold your heart in your chest, you don’t wear it on your sleeve.”

Ana nodded and looked back down to her drink. She took a quick drink instead of replying, and Remus took a sip of his too. Ana looked around and noted that no one appeared to be listening to their conversation. Lily stood a ways away helping a muggle-born third year count out knuts, and James and Sirius were talking with exaggerated motions. James waved his right hand too aggressively, and his drink spilled slightly onto the floor. The boys just laughed and James cleaned it up with the flick of his wand.

“No one’s going to judge you for it,” Remus continued, “It just makes it harder for the rest of us to figure out what’s going on in that little snake brain of yours. Makes it seem like you have one foot out the door at all times. Sirius might think that he has to be your defender because he knows how to read you, but no one would let anything happen to you.”

Ana pressed her side harder against Remus. She willed herself to not cry at his words. She could not imagine that the limited friends she had at Durmstrang would have ever said something so open. Friendships there were stilled and used for power gains. Associating yourself with the right names was more important than forming genuine bonds. However, these lions managed to trample over those ideologies in a matter of months.

“You’re very warm,” Ana cleared her throat and took an uncertain breath. She would not cry in the middle of Honeydukes because her friends loved her.

“You are too,” Remus understood the true meaning behind her words. They smiled at each other, and Remus turned them towards the stairs, “Oi! Boys, let’s go to Zonkos. We need some supplies.”

“Absolutely not!” Lily yelled from where she stood next to a small group of third years now, “I don’t know what supplies you need from Zonkos, but I feel like I need to stop this.”

“Oh, Evans,” Sirius stood up and helped James up. His smile was infectious, “It’s all purely for educational purposes! The Marauders simply want to set out and expand young impressionable minds.”

The young group that Lily stood with consisted of two Gryffindors and two Hufflepuffs and one Ravenclaw. The group sat there frozen while Sirius sauntered over to Lily, who remained unimpressed. “It would be a disservice to the student body as a whole to not let us go to Zonkos, because as older students we must inspire the younger ones to want to keep up their education. Besides, eventually, we might even have to start training the next of the Marauders. Who knows who they may be.” Sirius winked at the group, and Ana giggled as one of the girls went cherry red.

James moved silently to stand on Ana’s other side, “A galleon says that they keep this up for at least five minutes.”

“Oh you’re bloody on,” Ana laughed, “I say Sirius can push it to seven minutes.”

“You’re both idiots,” Remus took a sip of his hot chocolate, “You should be betting on content, not time. A galleon says Lily quotes the prefect rule book at least three times on the use of magical pranks.”

“Only three? You must be barking mad, it’s going to be at least five times.”

“I say Sirius surveys the third years for their opinion.”

“And they side with Evans.”

“No bloody way. Sirius has them hooked, look at them.”

Lily and Sirius debated for seven minutes and twenty-six seconds. Lily quoted the rule book four times. Sirius asked the third years for their opinion, and caught a fourth year Hufflepuff by the sleeve and got them involved too. They did not notice the exchange of galleons behind them, but the trio quietly laughed to themselves while keeping score. Eventually, Sirius started to climb on one of the displays to question the room about how to boost morale in the student body; however, Mr. Honeyduke came over and practically chased him out of the store when his dirty boot came close to the shelf.

The trio slipped out the side door, but not before waving at Lily. Lily rolled her eyes as she watched them leave, but was grinning regardless. Outside, Sirius was leaning against the side of the building waiting for them. His grin only grew wider as they stepped out of the door.

“So, boys and girl,” Sirius shook his head to move a piece of hair that was falling into his face, “I say we find Wormtail, and start planning for next semester.”

Every grin matched Sirius’s.