The Marauders Unite (III)

Midnight With Minerva

September 1, 1975

It is nearing midnight, and MINERVA sits behind her desk in her office, still wearing her emerald green robes from the feast. A knock sounds on her door.

MINERVA: Come in!

The door opens, and JAMES and SIRIUS enter, each wearing plaid pajama pants and T-shirts, but looking wide-awake.

MINERVA: Evening, boys. How was the journey today?

SIRIUS: Same as it always is, Professor.

MINERVA: And your summers? I heard you two had some trouble.

SIRIUS: Just some family affairs. I tend to have different world-views than the rest of the noble and most ancient House of Black, and then can make things- explosive.

JAMES: But my parents have been pretty cool about it. Sirius has been staying with us for the past month.

MINERVA: Well, as long as the two of you seem content. Where's Mr. Pettigrew and Mr. Lupin? I thought I left notes on their beds as well?

JAMES: You did, but they already fell asleep. We thought it best not to wake them.

MINERVA: Right you were. Are you looking forward to this new term? Fifth year is quite an important one indeed.

SIRIUS: Well, we've gotten this far. We'll probably make it through.

MINERVA: O.W.L.s are not something to be taken lightly, Mr. Black. Especially Transfiguration. I advise you to start studying immediately, for all of your classes.

SIRIUS: (smiling) Will do.

MINERVA: Anyway, I called you here tonight because I believe we are approaching the end of your Animagus training.

JAMES and SIRIUS share a small smile with each other.

MINERVA: Now, let me remind you that this is a very complex and dangerous process. Many grown wizards attempt this feat and fail repeatedly. You must be prepared to have patience and not expect results too quickly.

JAMES: We understand, Professor.

SIRIUS: Totally.

MINERVA: Very well. I don't want to keep you much longer, you'll need your rest for tomorrow- Potter, how is the team looking this year?

JAMES: Pretty well, ma'am. Sirius might tryout this year, actually.

MINERVA: Oh? Is this true, Mr. Black?

SIRIUS: (smirking) I thought I'd give it a go.

MINERVA: Well, the very best of luck to you. I made Mr. Longbottom the Captain this year. He's very adept and an extremely skilled flier. He'll be more than happy to assist you in any way before tryouts.

SIRIUS: Okay.

MINERVA: Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff shouldn't have any truly remarkable teams this year, but Slytherin is one to watch out for. Professor Slughorn made Miss Vanity the Captain; she's very strong, and not to be underestimated.

JAMES: We understand, Professor. We won't disappoint you.

SIRIUS: You'll be blown away.

MINERVA: (pursing her lips) Very well, off to bed, both of you. See you in class tomorrow.

SIRIUS: See you.

JAMES: Thanks, Professor.

JAMES and SIRIUS leave the office, and MINERVA gazes after them affectionately for a moment before extinguishing the candles in her office and retreating to bed herself.