Growing Change

Summary: James Potter loves Lily Evans, but she has hated him since the first time they met. Now as 7^th years at Hogwarts, Lily and James are forced to work together as Head Girl and Boy. Lily starts to realize that James isn't the immature boy he once was, and James starts to see that there is more to Lily then he first thought.

Disclaimer: The creation of Harry Potter does not belong to me, although sometimes I wish it did. It is the property of JKR etc…

A/N: This is my first fanfiction, so I hope you all like it! Please read and review so that I know you like it………it will also spur me to write faster and write more. Hope you like it!

Growing Change

Chapter 1: 7th Year Surprises

“Get that horrible thing away from me!”

Lily Evans turned over in her bad, listening as her older sister screamed her head off downstairs.

“Get it away!”

“Really, Petunia,” Lily heard her mother say. “You should be used to owls by now.”

“I shouldn't have to be used to those disgusting creatures!” Petunia continued to shriek. “If my sister wasn't so unnatural and was normal I wouldn't have to put up with them or anything else that has to do with her kind.”

“Now, Petunia,” Lily's father said. “Your mother and I are very proud of you sister. I don't care if you like what she is or not. I don't want to hear another word about it.”

“Fine, but that creature had better be gone by the time Vernon gets here for tea. It's bad enough that I had to tell him what she is without him witnessing it himself.”

At those words Lily groaned aloud. Vernon Dursley was Petunia's fiancé. He reeked of Muggleness and Petunia absolutely adored him.

Lily glanced at her clock and sat up in her bed with a start. It was past noon. She hardly ever slept this late. Although she did have a good excuse, she had stayed up late the night before in order to finish her Potion's essay that had been assigned over the summer holiday. At least it was the last of the homework she had had to complete. Now she could enjoy the rest of vacation without worrying about it.

Lily got dressed, brushed her teeth and shoulder length red hair, and then went downstairs to the kitchen. Her mother was at the counter fixing a sandwich for her father, who was sitting at the kitchen table. Petunia was also at the table and her gaze was fixed steadily on the owl that was perched atop Lily's chair. A letter that was addressed to Lily in green ink was sitting at her place.

“Good Morning, Lily. Would you like a sandwich?” Lily's mother, Rose Evans, asked her daughter. Mrs. Evans' red hair was pulled into a bun at the top of her head. Her pale blue eyes smiled happily at Lily as she entered the kitchen.

“Yes, please,” Lily answered giving her father a kiss on his cheek. “Good Morning, Daddy.”

Sam Evans was a tall man with thick blond hair and laughing emerald green eyes, the same eyes as Lily's. He looked up from the paper he was reading as Lily sat down next to him. “Afternoon's more like it,” He said with a smile. “An owl brought your letter from school a short while ago. Seems like it came earlier then it usually does. It looks thicker too.”

“Oh, is that what Petunia was screeching about?”

“Yes, it was,” Petunia said with a sneer. “It had better be gone by the time Vernon comes for tea. I don't want him to have to see what a freak you are.”

“Don't worry, I'll make sure it's gone,” Lily picked up the letter in front of her. As she opened it something hard and shiny fell onto the table. Looking at it Lily let out a small gasp.

“What is it dear?” Her mother asked.

Lily held up a finger as she quickly scanned the letter.

Dear Miss Evans,

As Head of Gryffindor House I am pleased to inform you that you have been selected as Head Girl for you seventh yeah at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

If you choose to accept, your presence shall be required at noon on August 25th for a meeting with the Headmaster and the newly appointed Head Boy. All further responsibilities and questions will be addresses then.

Please send word with the delivery owl if it is possible for you to attend the meeting at this time.

Also enclosed in this letter are your Head Girl badge and a list of the school supplies you will need for next year. As usual the school train will be departing for Hogwarts

from King's Cross Station Platform 9 3/4 at 11:00 am on September 1st.

Sincerely,

Professor M. McGonagall

Deputy Headmistress

Lily looked up from the letter, her green eyes sparkling with excitement. “I've been made Head Girl!” She knew that this was something even Muggle parents could understand.

“Oh, Lily that's wonderful!” Her mother exclaimed.

“We couldn't be prouder,” Said her father.

“Yes, yes. That's all well and fine,” Petunia said. “But Vernon is going to be here any minute! That owl has got to go!

“Okay. I'm going to go upstairs and write to Marlene and tell her the good news,” With that said Lily put the owl on her shoulder, grabbed her sandwich and went up to her room.

Lily woke on August 25th more excite then she had been since she first found out she was a witch. Earlier that week she had gone to Diagon Alley to purchase her books for school and get new robes, as hers had gotten to short. Surprisingly she had grown over the summer and now stood at 5' 4”. But her favorite purchase by far were the dress robes she bought. All 7th year students needed them for the graduation ball.

As she showered and dressed Lily once again tried to think of who could have possibly been made Head Boy. The only person she could think of was Amos Diggory, a Hufflepuff prefect. Lily hoped it wasn't him though. Diggory was nice and respected in Hufflepuff, but he and Lily did not get along very well. He kept bragging to her about the one time he had gotten a higher grade then her on a Herbology test. Needless to say, it got very tiring when he brought it up every time he saw her.

After dressing in a T-shirt and shorts Lily went downstairs to eat breakfast. A note on the counter told her that her parents were out shopping and that they would see her when she got back from the meeting.

When she was half finished eating her bagel and owl flew in through the open window and landed in front of her. Lily untied the parcel attached to its leg and the owl flew off. Lily opened the package to reveal a letter and a small golden ball with the Gryffindor Lion etched in red on one side. Lily placed it on the table in front of her and then opened the letter.

Dear Miss Evans,

I am pleased that you have chosen to accept the Head Girl position. We ask that you

Wear your school robes and Head Girl badge to today's meeting.

The golden object you received is a portkey. It will activate at noon and deliver you to the Headmaster's office. The Head Boy will be there as well.

Sincerely,

Professor M. McGonagall

Deputy Headmistress

Lily picked up the ball from the table. It was heavy as if it was made out of solid gold. Lily was amazed that something so small would be able to transport her all the way to Hogwarts. Even after seven years in the wizarding world some things still surprised her.

At a quarter to twelve Lily changed into her school robes and pulled her hair back from her face. After pinning her badge to her robes, she picked up the golden ball and waited.

At exactly 12 o' clock the portkey activated and Lily felt something tug at her navel as she was whirled off into space. Seconds later she landed in front of a gargoyle statue she knew to be the entrance to the Headmaster's office.

“Ah, Miss Evans, you're right on time.”

Lily turned towards the voice and saw the Headmaster, Professor Dumbledore standing a few feet away.

“As soon as the Head Boy arrives we can begin.”

Just as the words left his mouth, there was a flash of light and a tall tousled dark haired figure with hazel eyes and wire rimmed glasses appeared. He looked around and smiled when he saw Professor Dumbledore and Lily.

“Hello,” he said.

Lily was staring at him in shock. Impossible! She thought. It can't be!

But, sure enough, standing there with the Head Boy badge pinned to his robes was James Potter.

A/N: Well, that was the first chapter...hope you liked it! Read and review so I know what you thought! Also, I am open to any comments or suggestions you would like to make...I won't get offended, anything I can do to improve my writing will be greatly appreciated!! Also any ideas for pranks that the Marauders can do would be most helpful! Don't forget to review!

Disclaimer: Not mine. It all belongs to JKR. Except for the stuff you don’t recognize.

A/N: Ok! It’s finally done! It took longer then I thought because I changed a lot around, but it’s finally here. I hope you like it! Thanks to those who reviewed! It really means a lot. I tried to reply to all of you but if I missed you, sorry. Thanks also to my wonderful beta, Kaia! Don’t forget to review!

Growing Change

Chapter 2: Head Room

Lily couldn’t move. She was in total shock. James Potter was Head Boy. It was mind-boggling. She couldn’t believe it. All she could think of was that she would have to work with him for the entire school year. The thought was laughable. They would kill each other. They couldn’t even have a normal conversation without yelling at each other.

“What was Dumbledore thinking? He knows we don’t get along. And why did he make Potter Head Boy. He’s so arrogant and annoying and not to mention a bullying toerag! He doesn’t even-”

“Ah, Mr. Potter,” Dumbledore said, interrupting Lily’s thoughts. “Now that you have arrived we can begin.” With that said Dumbledore, turned toward the gargoyle statue and said, “Acid Pops.” The gargoyle immediately jumped aside to reveal a winding staircase. Dumbledore stood on the first step and the stairs began winding upwards. Lily and James got on after him and followed him up the stairs.

Lily looked around Dumbledore’s office. The shelves on the walls were filled with all sorts of magical gadgets and the walls were covered in portraits of previous Headmasters. The moment Lily and James stepped through the doorway the portraits broke out into an excited babble.

“Ah, the new Head Boy and Girl have arrived.”

“Mr. Potter, I wasn’t expecting to see you here.”

“And who is this young lady? I haven’t met you before.”

“Yes, do introduce us, Albus.”

Dumbledore turned toward the portraits. “May I present James Potter and Lily Evans, our new Head Boy and Girl.” Turning to Lily and James he said, “These portraits are of the previous headmasters. If there is ever a time when you need me and I am not around, please go to them. I find they give the most excellent advice. Now, please sit down and make yourself comfortable. We need to discuss your new responsibilities, it will take some time.”

James immediately sprawled into an overstuffed armchair. Lily rolled her eyes as she gracefully settled herself in the chair next to his, “Arrogant prat, he acts as if the chair was put there just for him. Then again, it probably was, seeing as he’s been in here so many times before.”

“I am pleased that the two of you have accepted the Head Boy and Girl position. Doing so will add to your workload this year, but it also comes with several special privileges. Together you will be responsible for organizing any school functions, such as Hogsmeade weekends or dances. You are also responsible for the prefects patrolling schedule. Miss Evans, since you were a prefect these past two years, you have some experience in this area, I expect you to explain it to Mr. Potter at a later time. You also may deduct or award house points and assign detentions. I trust you not to abuse this privilege,” Dumbledore directed a small smile at James as he said this. Lily just glared at him. “Also, along with the headship, you will be free to visit Hogsmeade at any time, after you have gained permission from either myself or your head of house, Professor McGonagall. You will also have access to the Head Common Room. This will be yours to use at any hour for studying, planning school events, or if you just need some time to relax away from the other students. After I answer your questions, I will show you where your Common Room is and how to enter it.”

“I don’t have any questions,” James said “So, after Evans asks her’s, we can see the common room.”

Lily glared at James and angrily got up from her chair, “What makes you think I have questions to ask?”

“Evans, I know everything about you and there has never been a time that you have not had a question about everything,” James said with his trademark smirk.

“You don’t know anything about me!” Lily said putting her hands on her hips.

James stood up, “I know that your favorite color is blue.”

“No, it’s not.” Lily said snottily. “I’ve hated it ever since you turned my hair that color in third year.”

“That was four years ago, Evans! Let it go already!” James said exasperated. “Besides I did say that I was sorry.”

“It was blue for a month, Potter!”

“Well, it was only supposed to last for a day,” he admitted sheepishly.

Lily threw up her hands, “That’s beside the point, Potter. You shouldn’t have done it in the first place!”

“Oh, so this is why you refuse to go out with me,” James said knowingly. “Because of some silly joke I played on you back in third year!”

“No. I won’t go out with you because you’re a-”

Dumbledore, having remained silent throughout their argument, stood up and cleared his throat. Lily and James turned toward him surprised. They had forgotten someone else was in the room with them.

“As entertaining as this has been,” Dumbledore said with a twinkle in his eye, “might I suggest we have a look at your common room? I need to know if there are any changes you would like to make to it.”

Lily blushed slightly, “Of course, Professor, I apologize.”

“Yeah, I would like to see the common room,” James added.

“Follow me please,” Dumbledore walked out of his office and down the stairs.

He led then up the main staircase and to Gryffindor Tower. He stopped near the portrait of the Fat Lady. Dumbledore motioned to the portrait of the Gryffindor Lion on the adjacent wall.

“Your Common Room is through this portrait,” he said. “Simply tap your wand on the picture and say your name.” He demonstrated for them and the portrait swung open.

Lily entered the room first. She looked around with wide eyes. It was incredible! The room was large and airy. It was decorated in the Gryffindor colors, gold and scarlet. A thick, plush red carpet with the Gryffindor Lion in gold around the edges covered the floor except for a small portion in front of the portrait hole which was a dark hardwood floor. There was a huge bay window that overlooking the grounds on the left side of the room, and on either side of it were two Maplewood desks. Each of them had huge, comfy-looking chair in front of it. A gigantic couch and several armchairs were on the right side in front of the fireplace. There were pillows on all of them, as well as several blankets draped over the back of the couch. Next to them was a large wood table surrounded by six matching chairs. There was a door against the far wall that Lily assumed led to a bathroom. Along the walls were portraits of previous Head Boys and Girls and in one corner, hanging from the ceiling, was a thick gold rope. All in all, it was the most stunning room Lily had ever seen.

“Hey, Evans! Do you mind? I’d like to see the room too, you know!”

Lily quickly moved out of the doorway, “Sorry, I was just shocked. I didn’t expect our common room to look so- so-”

“Incredible,” James finished, walking into the room after her. He knew the room was going to be nice, but he wasn’t expecting it to be this nice. He wandered around the room looking at everything. When he entered the bathroom his mouth dropped open. “Hey, Evans! Come check out the bathroom!”

Lily walked over to where he was standing and let out a small gasp. The bathroom was almost as large as the common room. There were plush towels hanging on the walls along with several robes in various colors. The tiled floor was a mix of pale blue, green, yellow, purple and white. In one corner there was a glass shower with adjustable nozzles on each side. Next to it was an enormous bathtub that had gold faucets each with a different colored dot on the top, along the sides.

“This is much nicer then the Prefects bathroom,” Lily said.

“Yeah,” James agreed.

Lily looked at him quizzically. “How do you know what the Prefects bathroom looks like?”

“Uh…” James ran a hand through his hair. “Remus is a Prefect. He, uh, kinda let me use it a few times.”

“You wouldn’t happen to know anything about why the mirrors insulted everyone for a week last year would you?”

“Uh…no clue,” he said.

Lily snorted disbelievingly.

“Hey, look at this,” he said hurriedly changing the subject. Lily decided to let it go, for now.

James showed her a handle on the side of the bathtub. “You can adjust how deep it is.” He lowered the handle a notch and they watched as the floor to the tub lowered and a set of steps appeared on one side.

They inspected the bathroom for a few more minutes before joining Professor Dumbledore in the common room. He was sitting at the table and motioned for them to sit down across from him. Lily sank into one of the chairs and James did the same.

“There are just a few things I would like to point out to you,” he said. “Also, if you would like me to add or change anything about the room, please tell me before you leave.”

Lily and James nodded and Dumbledore continued, “Your fireplace is connected to the Floo Network so if you need to reach me or any of the other professors all you need to do is call. There is a pot of Floo powder on top of the mantel. Your Common Room also has its own house elf. If you ever need anything merely pull the rope and a house elf will appear momentarily,” Dumbledore stood up, walked over to the rope hanging from the ceiling, and gave it a tug. A few moments later a house elf appeared.

The elf bowed, “Yes, sir Professor Dumbledore, sir? What can Inky be doing for you?”

“Nothing this time Inky,” Dumbledore said. “I was merely demonstrating for our Head Boy and Girl.”

Inky turned to Lily and James and bowed. “Hello, sir and miss. If yous be needing anything just call for Inky.” Then with another bow, the house elf snapped his fingers and disappeared.

“That will come in handy, Professor,” James said with a grin. “I won’t have to sneak into the kitchens anymore.”

Lily rolled her eyes and Dumbledore gave James a smile, “Very true, Mr. Potter. Now do you have any questions for me before we end this meeting?”

Lily spoke up, “Yes, I have a few.”

James rolled his eyes, “This will take all night.”

Lily glared at him and the turned back to Dumbledore, “When you opened the portrait, you only touched it with your wand and said your name. Isn’t that a bit too simple? I mean, anyone could get in if they knew.”

“Ah, yes, I forgot to tell you,” Dumbledore said. “The portrait is charmed so that only you, Mr. Potter, Professor McGonagall, and I can gain entrance to the common room. Anyone else who tries will be transported into the broom cupboard across from the main staircase. There is also a portrait in the Gryffindor Common Room that allows you to access this room as well.”

“Good,” Lily said. “I was also wondering if it would be possible to have a window seat put in front of the bay window. It would be a wonderful place to sit and read at.”

“Certainly, Miss Evans, I will have it put in tomorrow.”

“Thank you, Professor,” Lily said with a smile. She shot a look at James, “I don’t have any more questions.”

“Good,” James said standing up. “If there isn’t anything else, Professor, I should be getting home.”

“I believe we have covered everything we needed to,” Dumbledore said standing up as well. “The portkey you used to come here with will take you back when you touch it with your wand. I will see you both on the first.”

With that said, Dumbledore walked over to the portrait and left the common room. James turned to Lily, “See you on the train, Evans.” He touched his wand to the golden sphere and was gone.

Lily looked around the common room one last time. “This has been the most interesting day.” Then she touched her wand to the portkey. She felt the familiar tug at her navel and a few seconds later she landed safely in her bedroom.

A/N: And that’s the end of chapter 2! I hope you liked it. Don’t forget to review. Also, if you have any suggestions, comments or ideas you would like me to use please feel free to tell me. I love to hear from you. I can’t promise to use any of your ideas but I will if I can use them. Thanks for reading! Review too!

A/N: Hey! Sorry it's taken me ssoooo long to get another chapter out but classes come first and I had to get my English essays out of the way, not to mention work and my volunteer job. So I haven't had much time to write this. And then I couldn't get this one plot bunny out of my head so I wrote that down to get it out of the way. I posted it here so if you get a chance read it please do...it's H/Hr and it's called Slapping Sense. And thanks to everyone who reviewed…it really means a lot! And thanks to my beta…she's the best and this chapter wouldn't be what it is without her! *Sigh* Ok...enough blabbing because I know you want to get to the story...so without further ado here (finally) is chapter 3!

A/N 2: There were a few changes made to this chapter on 12/08/04. So if you have read it already and something doesn’t match what was said in future chapters that is why.

Disclaimer: I do not own HP...it belongs to JKR.

Growing Change

Chapter 3: On the Hogwarts Express

Lily stepped onto platform 9 3/4 and suddenly realized that this was her last year at Hogwarts. She looked around the platform, taking in her surroundings and committing them to memory.

She could see frightened first years exchanging tearful goodbyes with their parents and then walking timidly towards the scarlet school train, the Hogwarts Express. Friends were meeting up with each other to talk about summer vacations and the upcoming school year, while newly made prefects were showing off their shiny badges.

Lily let out a sigh and then made her way through the crowd and onto the scarlet train, dragging her trunk behind her. She made her way to the front of the train where the Head's compartment was located. Sliding the door open she let out a relieved sigh when she saw that it was empty.

Lily pulled her trunk into the compartment. She was about to sit down when a light brown, curly haired head peered around the doorframe. Lily saw who it was and a smile lit up her face as she ran to give her best friend since first year a hug.

“Oh, it's so good to see you!” Lily exclaimed.

“You too!” Marlene agreed, her brown eyes sparkling. “And congratulations on making Head Girl! I knew you had it in you,” she added returning Lily's hug.

Marlene shut the door they sat down so Lily could tell her all about meeting with Professor Dumbledore and seeing the Head Common Room. “The only thing that would make all of this a whole lot better would be if they changed who the Head Boy is,” Lily said sighing.

“Really?” Marlene asked, her eyes bright with curiosity. “Who is it? You never did tell me.”

Before Lily could answer, the compartment door slid open and a tall, dark haired boy walked in.

Marlene's eyes widened and she looked from James to Lily and then back again. “You're Head Boy?” she asked incredulously.

“Oh!” James gasped and clutched his chest in mock pain. “However did you guess? Could it have been this brilliantly shiny gold badge that gave me away?” James sprawled on the seat across from Marlene and Lily, leaving the compartment door open.

Marlene rolled her eyes. “I don't envy Lily on bit having to put up with him all year,” she thought.

“Hey, Prongs!” Sirius Black walked leisurely through the open door, his black hair falling with natural grace into his grey eyes. Remus Lupin was following behind him. Sirius, Remus and James had been friends since they met on the school train for their first year at Hogwarts. They had been inseparable ever since. The three of them, along with Peter Pettigrew, called themselves the Marauders.

“I'm glad we found you,” Remus said. With his soft brown hair and eyes, he was the most studious of the group. “I was looking through my Charms book and I saw a spell I thought we could use for our pra-omph!” Remus rubbed his side, glaring at Sirius. “What was that for?”

Sirius gestured wildly to where Lily and Marlene were sitting. “Hello! Head Girl and Head Girl's best friend! They'll rat out on us if they knew what we're going to do.”

Remus rolled his eyes. “Oh, please. It's not like they don't know already. They've know us for seven years. And the professors should know by now that we do a prank at the beginning of every year. It's expected.”

James nodded in agreement. The Marauders were famous for their pranks. They had been pulling pranks since their first year at Hogwarts and it had become a tradition. Each year they had a new prank. Last year anyone who had eaten the treacle pudding had been overcome with a sudden urge to punch the person sitting next to them. It had created quite a stir.

“Yeah, but if they know what it is they won't be surprised like everyone else. No one is supposed to know what the prank is going to be except for us,” Sirius said.

“Oh, fine.” Remus knew that when Sirius got like this is was a lost cause trying to reason with him. “Come on,” he said, dragging Sirius out the door behind him.

“We'll find Peter, plan everything out and then fill Prongs in on it later.”

The train's whistle blew, signaling that it was time to leave the platform. Marlene stood up. “Well, I'm going to go back and sit with John and the others,” she said, referring to her Ravenclaw boyfriend, John McKinnon, and the other people she and Lily were friends with.

“Ok,” Lily replied, giving her a knowing smile. “Tell everyone I say `hi'. I'll try to stop by after we meet with the prefects, but I don't know if there will be anything else that I have to do.”

“Alright, we'll see you at the carriages then if you don't make it.” Marlene said as she left the compartment, shutting the door behind her.

The train pulled out of the station soon after Marlene left. Lily went over to her trunk and pulled out a piece of parchment and a quill. She sat back down across from James.

“Ok,” she said. “We need to go over what we want to say at the meeting.”

James looked up from reading Quidditch Through the Ages. “Uh...what?” It was obvious that he hadn't heard a word she had said.

“The Prefects' meeting. You know...the one that all prefects go to at the beginning of every year.”

“Well...considering that I was never a prefect, how was I to know?”

“Oh, honestly! Don't you read?” Lily went over to her trunk and pulled out another piece of parchment. This one was longer then the other one and had writing on it.

“Didn't you get one of these with your letter?” James shook his head and Lily continued. “Besides, Remus was a prefect. Didn't you ever ask where he went at the beginning of the term the last two years?”

“Uh...” James ran his fingers through his hair and cleared his throat. “We, uh, thought he was meeting a girl...”

Lily snorted. “You would. Anyways, you should have gotten something that explains all the duties that the Head Boy and Girl have to do.” She scanned the parchment.

“And right here is says `conduct a meeting on the Hogwarts Express ten minutes after the train leaves the station. This is a mandatory meeting for all Prefects.' Here read it yourself.” She thrust the parchment out at James. “It explains everything you have to do.”

“Nah,” James said and pushed the parchment back towards her. “Why should I bother when you have the whole thing memorized? I can just ask you.”

“Fine. But don't come running to me when someone asks you something and you can't answer it.” Lily checked her watch. “Come on, let's go. Everyone should be there by now.”

She and James got up and Lily led them to a compartment across the hall and a few doors down from theirs. It was a large compartment; large enough to fit twenty-four students (a boy and girl from each of the four houses for years 5, 6, and 7) plus the Head Boy and Girl. There were three rows of comfy benches that could each seat 8 people facing another smaller bench. The prefects were talking amongst each other when Lily and James arrived. A bubbly blonde bounced over to greet them when she saw them enter.

“Hi, Lily. Hey, James,” she said giving James a flirty smile.

Lily inwardly groaned. “Hi, Missy,” she said with a tight smile. “I see you've been made a prefect.” Missy was a seventh year Gryffindor. She was about Lily's height and had bright blue eyes and short blonde hair that she pulled back with two clips, leaving several strands to frame her face. She and Renee (another 7^th year Gryffindor) had been chasing after the Marauders since their fourth year and (as far as Lily knew) had yet to catch them. They were the year's biggest flirts and Lily had no idea how they managed to get sorted into Gryffindor let alone how Missy was made a prefect.

Missy nodded her head energetically at Lily's comment. “Mm-hm. I wasn't sure if I was going to accept it at first. But then I heard that James was Head Boy, so I couldn't possibly refuse.” She threw another smile at James and winked at him.

Lily cleared her throat. “We need to get this meeting started. See you, Missy.”

She and James walked to the front of the compartment and James asked everyone to sit down. After they had introduced themselves Lily told them what they were expected to do this year. She explained the patrols and said that the schedule would be posted next week in the prefects' room. James talked about their plans for a Halloween feast and said that they wanted to have something extra at Christmas but hadn't decided what. Lastly, Lily handed out the passwords to the House dorms and also the ones for the Prefect bathrooms (one for the girls and one for the boys).

After answering all their questions Lily and James went back to their compartment. Lily put the parchment with all her note from the meeting in her trunk and got out her charms book. She curled up on one of the seats and opened the book in her lap.

James was about to sit down when he remembered that he was supposed to meet up with the Marauders after the meeting. “Hey, Evans, I'm going to go find Remus, Sirius and Peter. I'll be back before we get to Hogwarts.”

“Alright,” she said without looking up from her book. “If you see Marlene tell her that I'll stop by later,” she added distractedly.

James smiled, shaking his head. “It's just like Evans to read a book when she could be talking with friends,” he thought, shutting the compartment door behind him.

********

When James returned a few hours later, Lily was curled up on her side sleeping. Her cloak, which she had been using as a blanket had fallen to the floor. James picked it up and recovered her gently. He reached out to brush her red hair back from her face. She sighed and shifted in her sleep. James held his breath, half afraid that she would wake up and witness him acting so out of character. But when she had all her guards down, like she did now, he couldn't help but feel relaxed too. It was calming in a way. He sighed when she settled back down, knowing that when she woke up they would be back to arguing like they always did. But then, that was half the fun wasn't it? He was about to sit down when the train lurched to a stop, almost knocking him off his feet. James went to the window and looked out, but he didn't see anything. He went to where Lily was sleeping and shook her shoulder gently.

“Evans. Hey, Evans, wake up,” he whispered. She didn't move so he shook her shoulder again, harder this time. “Evans.”

Drowsily, Lily opened her eyes. She saw James' face above her and sat up with a start. Only James' quick Quidditch reflexes saved his nose from being broken.

“Potter!” Lily exclaimed, her eyes wide. “Why are you in my room? Get out!”

“Evans, you're not in your room, you're on the Hogwarts Express.”

Lily blinked. “Oh...sorry...I-I didn't realize. Why did you wake me up then? Are we there yet?”

“No, we still have another hour yet to go,” he replied, worry in his voice.

Lily stood up slowly. “There's no reason we should have stopped then.”

“I know.”

“Well, we have to find out what's going on. Everyone is going to be wondering.”

“Exactly. Do you want me to go up front and check?”

“Yeah,” Lily said. “Make sure you have your wand with you. I'll send all the perfects to the compartment and tell everyone else to stay put and not wander around until we know what's going on. I'll meet you in the Prefects compartment in 5 minutes, alright?”

“Yeah, that sounds good.” James opened the compartment door and Lily walked through ahead of him. “I'll see you in a few.”

James walked to the front of the train where the conductor and food cart were. He could tell immediately that something wasn't right as he opened the door...

A/N: Yes I know….a cliff hanger…I'm sorry but it fit! Anyways I'm partway finished with the next chapter and I have chapter 5 outlined. I'm aiming for 2 weeks for chapter 4, so look for it around then…who knows maybe it will be sooner…but I don't count on it. Classes are easing up a bit now that mid terms are over so I'll have more time to write. As always, read and review! Much love! See you soon!

A/N: Ugh! You guys must hate me (or at least want to punch me) for taking so long to update. I'm doing my best to write quickly but I'm trying to keep this story as close to the HP books as I can...like all the rules and everything. So I'm constantly referring back to the books and a few websites for details and whatnot. Hopefully there won't be anything that couldn't fit it the books and if there is let me know. Anyways, thanks to everyone who reviewed…it really means a lot! And if you didn't you should be ashamed of yourself! Haha...no I just really like reviews and reading what you all have to say. Also thanks to my beta, Kaia…it wouldn't be the same without you. And now on to the story! Oh and by the way…this is the longest chapter I've written so far…hope that makes up for the time it's taken me to update. Now to the story! Happy reading…and don't forget to review!

Disclaimer: As much as I wish it all belonged to me, it doesn't. Well except for the plot (although that's pretty much JKR's too) and an odd character or two.

Growing Change

Chapter 4: More Serious Matters

James pushed open the door that lead to the front of the train where Henry the conductor and the food cart lady (who all the students called Aunt May) stayed during the journey to Hogwarts.

Even from the doorway he could tell that they were dead. They were just lying there. Two heaps dressed in colorful robes lying unmoving on the floor.

Suddenly, a slight movement caught James' eye. As he turned towards it a figure in a black robe with a white mask covering his face dashed to the open train door that lead outside. James darted out after him.

Several feet from the train the figure turned and pointed his wand at the train.

James froze in the doorway wand at the ready. His messy black hair was blowing in the stormy September wind and a light rain dampened his face and robes from a rapidly darkening sky.

The figure shouted something James couldn't understand. A glittering, green vapor shot from his wand.

“Protego!” James instinctively put up a shield charm.

The vapor floated harmlessly above the train and the figure Dissaparated with a small `pop'.

James dissolved the shield as he watched the green vapor take form. His breath caught in his throat and he shivered as a brisk wind whipped at his damp robes. The sky opened into a torrent of rain as a bolt of lighting illuminated the sky, enhancing the sign floating in the air. A vast green and glittering skull, with a serpent protruding from its mouth like a tongue was hovering directly above the Hogwarts Express, etched against the cloud darkened sky.

The Dark Mark.

********

“I know that you are all worried and are wondering what is happening,” Lily said as the last of the prefects sat down in the compartment. “James has gone to find out what's going on. I would like everyone, except the seventh years, to go to each apartment and tell everyone to stay put and keep them calm. One prefect for every 3 compartments. We will send word as soon as we know what it going on. Remember to keep everyone calm.”

Lily glanced at her watch as the fifth and sixth year prefects left the compartment and spread throughout the train. The seventh years sat down on the benches to wait. Rain beat a steady staccato on the roof of the train while thunder and lightning periodically brightened the sky.

Ten minutes. `James should have been here by now.' She sat down on one of the benches to wait for him. Another five minutes passes. Lily bit her lower lip nervously and Remus came and sat down next to her.

“What's wrong?” he asked her.

“We said we would meet here in five minutes. It's been fifteen.”

“Do you want me to go find him?”

“Yeah, could you?” She shot Remus a relieved smile. “I would go but, I have to stay here,” she finished gesturing around the room.

Remus had just reached the door and was about to open it when James rushed through out of breath and water dripping from his robes. Lily rushed to meet him.

“What's going on?” she asked and hurriedly cast a drying charm on James.

“Thanks,” he whispered and beckoned Remus closer. “Can you go get Sirius? He'll know more about all this then I will. Peter might as well come too.” Sirius nodded and left. James turned to Lily “Whatever it was, it's gone now. I think I know what it was, but I want to be sure. But that's not the problem.” He said softly, looking Lily straight in the eyes. “We don't have a conductor anymore.” His face was dead serious.

“Wh-what? What do you mean we don't have a conductor anymore? What happened to him? What about everyone else? Surely there's someone who can work the train.”

“Slow down. I'll explain in a moment. Let's get everyone calmed down first.” He turned to the seventh year prefects that were still in the room. “Listen up. There is something wrong with our conductor. It is being taken care of so we should be ready to move in a little while, hopefully. Please go through the train and tell everyone that everything is under control and that they should remain in their compartments unless they need to use the bathroom and only if are being escorted by one of you.”

A murmur broke out through the room as the prefects turned to leave. Remus entered the room a few moments later, followed by Sirius, Peter, and Marlene with her boyfriend, John. Remus shrugged at a look from James as if to say `what did you want me to do about it?'

James shook his head ruefully. “Lets all go to the Head Compartment. We can talk there.” As soon as they were all seated and James had shut the door behind them everyone burst out at once with a million questions.

James held up his hands. “Hold on! We'll tell you what we know so far and then you can ask questions and we can figure out what we're going to do, alright?”

They nodded. James sat down next to Lily so they could explain what happened.

“When the train stopped I went up front to see what happened while Evans called all the prefects together. The door was shut when I got there and I could tell that something was wrong. I mean all the other times I had gone up front the door was always open, why should it be any different now? When I opened the door, the conductor John and Aunt May were laying on the floor. Then there was movement in one corner so I turned toward it. A figure wearing a long, hooded, black robe and a white mask rushed out the door and I followed.”

“A Death Eater,” Sirius said in a disgusted voice.

“Yeah, that's what I thought too” James agreed.

“But-” Lily started to say but James interrupted her.

“Let me finish.” She nodded and he continued. “The Death Eater went outside and then turned around to face the train. He spoke some sort of spell, I couldn't make out what he said, but whatever it was it conjured the Dark Mark.”

Everyone in the room gasped. Then Sirius spoke, voicing the question everyone was too afraid to ask. “What about Henry? And Aunt May?”

“They're dead. He killed them...along with all the other adult wizards on the train. I checked.” James sighed.

Silence sat like a dead weight in the room.

“So what do we do now?” Marlene asked quietly, breaking the silence.

James looked at Lily. “Any ideas, Evans?”

Lily took a deep breath. “We have to get word to Dumbledore about what's happened. Although, he might already know.” Lily stood up and twirled a strand of fiery hair as she paced. “But what really worries me is that this train had loads of protective spells on it. There's no way a Death Eater could have gotten on the train unless-”

“They were already on the train when it pulled out of the station and were supposed to be on it,” James interrupted.

“Exactly.”

James ran a hand through his hair. “Which means, that the Death Eater who killed everyone was someone who was working on the train. And the people that were killed knew who they were.”

“So all we need is a list of who was employed to work on the Hogwarts Express to figure out who the Death Eater was,” Lily said.

“But your right, we need to get word to Dumbledore before we do anything else,” James said. “Padfoot, where's your owl?”

“He's with the rest of my stuff in the compartment.”

“Ok, write out a note for Dumbledore explaining what happened. Celox is much faster then my owl. It will only take him a few minutes to get to Hogwarts and take the letter to Dumbledore.”

Sirius nodded and left. John spoke up, “We should tell all the seventh years. They need to know what is happening and they're experienced enough to be of some help if more Death Eaters show up.”

James and Lily nodded in agreement. “We might as well tell the fifth and sixth year prefects as well,” Lily said. “They're going to have to help us keep everyone settled until the train is moving again.”

John and Marlene stood up. “We can tell them,” Marlene said. “We'll make sure they know not to say anything to anyone that's not a seventh year or a prefect, and answer any questions they have.”

Peter stood up too. “I'll go with them,” he said.

James shot them all a strained smile. “Thanks,” he said. “We'll wait here for Dumbledore.” No sooner had the three of them left then there was a small flash of light and the Headmaster of Hogwarts, Professor Albus Dumbledore, appeared in the doorway dressed in his usual wizard robes and hat, carrying a small tin of lemon drops that he had used for a portkey.

“Professor.” Lily let out a sigh of relief and stood up to great him.

“Miss Evans, Mr. Potter,” Dumbledore said, nodding to them each in turn. Dumbledore shut the door and James motioned for him to sit down. Dumbledore had just opened his mouth to speak when the door opened.

“James, I sent the letter. Dumbledore should get-” Sirius broke off having seen Dumbledore. “Sir,” he said. “I take it you got my owl?”

“Yes, indeed, Mr. Black. A wise idea to use such a fast owl.”

“Oh, that was James' idea, not mine sir.”

“Ah, I stand corrected.” He looked over at James. “I am glad to see my decision to make you Head Boy was a good one.”

“Thank you, sir,” James replied with a grin. He chanced a glance at Lily and saw a look of indifference on her face. James sighed inwardly.

“Sir, what are we going to do now?” Lily asked quietly.

“I believe that this attack was merely a warning of sorts. But for now, we need to get everyone to the school. Now, Mr. Potter, I need to see what damage has been done before I revive the train.”

“Sir what do you mean `revive' the train?” Lily asked.

Dumbledore smiled. “Of the many protective charms on the Hogwarts Express there is one called the Contegon charm. The charm is activated when anything harmful befalls the person in charge of operating the train, it will automatically stop the train and shut it down. The train then can only be revived by the person who cast the charm, in this case, me.”

“Oh!” Lily exclaimed. “That makes perfect sense. I read about the Contegon charm in fifth year when I was looking up protection charms after we talked about them in Defense class. The incantation is `contego' and it will surround a specific area with a shield and repel anything that would be considered harmful to the castor.”

James looked over at Lily, stunned that she could remember something she must have read about at the beginning of their fifth year. Dumbledore was smiling at Lily, and James realized that he hadn't been at all surprised that Lily knew about the charm.

“The one that I found most fascinating though,” Lily was saying to Dumbledore, “was the Fidelus charm. That seems immensely complicated to perform. I would love to learn more about it. The book I was reading didn't have all that much in it.”

“I have a book that has been written on that charm and several like it. I will lend them to you to read if you are interested.”

Lily's eyes lit up and she sat forward in her seat excitedly. `Figure that she gets excited about some book,' James thought.

“That would be wonderful, Professor,” she said. “I'm absolutely fascinated with charms of any sort.

“Now onto more serious matters. I will announce today's occurrences at the welcoming feast tonight and then we can discuss it further in my office afterwards.”

“Sir,” Sirius said. “We have Marlene Davies, John McKinnon and Peter Pettigrew telling all the seventh years as we speak, as well as the fifth and sixth year prefects.”

“We're making sure they know not to say anything. We wanted to be sure that if there was another attack that they would be ready to defend themselves,” James added.

“Very well then. Let's get this train revived.” He stood up and headed for the compartment door. “We are an hour away from the school so I have asked Professor McGonagall to inform the house elves that the feast will be held an hour later then usual.”

“We're that close?” Lily asked. “I thought we were much farther.”

“Well, Evans,” James said with a smirk. “You did sleep most of the way here.”

Sirius laughed and Lily blushed faintly. “The train always puts me to sleep,” she said defensively. “Besides, where were you? Off with you friends planning pranks. Some Head Boy you are!”

“Hey!” James interjected. “That's tradition you're talking about.”

“Some tradition. What are you going to do this year? Make anyone who eats the trifle talk in rhymes for the rest of the night?” she asked bitterly.

“Nah, we did that in fourth year.”

“Oh, that's right. How could I have forgotten,” she said sarcastically. Sirius glanced over at Dumbledore and motioned to the door. Dumbledore nodded in assent and they left to look at the damage the Death Eater had left, knowing that once Lily and James started going at it, it would take an avalanche to make them stop.

“I really don't know,” James answered seriously. “You did have three helpings.” He paused. “Wish I had remembered that trifle was your favorite dessert before we decided to use it for our prank.”

“No as much as I did. Do you know how hard it is to come up with something that rhymes with orange?”

“I didn't even know there was a rhyme for that.”

“Exactly!” she said huffily. “I couldn't talk for the rest of the night because I couldn't find anything to rhyme with orange that was an actual word.”

Before James could reply, Sirius and Dumbledore reentered the room. James saw them and a look of mortification crossed his face. “P-Professor…I hadn't realized you left.”

“Naturally,” Dumbledore replied. “You and Miss Evans had quite a lot to argue about. I hope that you can get it out of your system before the school year starts?”

Lily looked at Dumbledore incredulously. “I hope so too, sir. For my sake,” she muttered.

“Hey, you're the one who always starts it!” James interjected.

“You're the one who brings it up in the first place.”

James opened his mouth to reply but then shut it, knowing that she was right, as usual. He turned to Dumbledore instead. “Sir, are we ready to go to the school?”

“Yes, I have portkeyed the victims to Hogwarts and alerted the Minister of Magic, Gimpfrey Bowman. The train will start moving shortly. I will go to the front and announce that we are on our way to Hogwarts and stay here until we reach Hogwarts in case there are anymore difficulties.”

Lily nodded. “Thank you Professor. We'll all go around the train to answer any questions anyone has.”

“Thank you, that will make less for me to explain tonight.” Dumbledore said and then nodded to Lily, James, and Sirius and then left the compartment for the front of the train. A few moments later they heard his voice ringing throughout the train, telling everyone that they would be arriving at Hogwarts within the hour. The three of them left the compartment to answer questions, knowing that more then half of those asked they would not be able to answer.

********

The train pulled into the Hogsmeade station an hour later. Students excitedly exited through the doors and walked up the path to where the carriages were waiting patiently to drive them up to the school. A deep voice was bellowing for the first years to follow him so that they could take their traditional row across the lake and get their first magical view of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The first years nervously gathered around the Hogwarts' gamekeeper, Rubeus Hagrid.

James and Lily stepped off the train and ushered students who were lagging behind to the carriages. When they finally made it to the carriages themselves they found one waiting for them. James let out a slight shudder upon seeing the carriage. Lily looked over at him quizzically but he didn't meet her eyes. The door opened as they approached and Marlene stuck her head out.

“What took so long?” she asked.

“We had to make sure everyone else was off the train first,” Lily replied, climbing into the carriage with James following behind. “Thanks for waiting.”

“I second that,” James said as he sat down next to Remus. Lily sat down next to Marlene, opposite James. Sirius and Peter were on the other side of Remus and John was on Marlene's other side.

The group road along in silence until Marlene asked, “Do any of you know how these carriages get up to the school? I've always wondered. Is there some sort of propelling spell on them or something?”

All of them, except James, shook their heads, who answered shortly, “Thestrals.”

Lily let out a soft, “Oh of course, that makes perfect sense. The only people who can see the thestrals are those who have seen death,” she explained to the others.

“It's in our Care of Magical Creatures book. We're supposed to learn about them this year. They're said to be horrid looking. I saw a picture of one in my book, but I suppose they're much worse in person.” She gave James a look of understanding.

“Who was it you knew?” she asked him.

“I'd rather not say.” There was an uncomfortable silence throughout the carriage before Sirius broke it, noticing that they had reached the school.

“Great, we're here. I'm so hungry I could eat a hippogriff,” he said jumping out of the carriage as it stopped. He turned back around when he realized the others weren't following him. “Well, what are you waiting for? The first years are almost here and I don't want to miss the sorting. Or the food,” he added.

Laughing at his antics, the others climbed out of the carriage and followed him into the school, temporarily forgetting their harsh day in light of the promising evening that lay ahead of them.

A/N: That (again) was the longest chapter I've written so far. I hope you liked it! Just a few notes: The Dark Mark description was taken from pg. 128 of GoF in the American version, give or take a few words. The name of the Minister of Magic, Gimpfrey Bowman, is credited to my older brother, Jason. I couldn't think of a name so I ask him to pick one that could be used as a HP character…that's what he came up with. I don't think he did that bad of a job either. Also…if you have any ideas for pranks that the Marauders could play they would be muchly appreciated. Credit will be given if I decide to use it. And one more note of curiosity…how many of you read the authors notes? Just wondering… Hope you enjoyed the chapter. I can't promise when the next one will be out but winter break is coming up soon so I should have lots of time to write. Remember…more reviews equal faster writing! They're what keeps me going.

A/N: The next chapter is here. I’m sorry it took so long. Its been really hard to write and I kept getting distracted…I usually don’t wear nail polish you see…only for fancy stuff…but while I was writing this chapter I got the urge to paint them hot pink…so I had long, hot pink finger nails…then blue and now their silver…go figure. My best friend loves them…my mom thinks I’m insane. Haha. Anyway’s, here’s chapter 5, hope you like it! Don’t forget to review!

Disclaimer: Not mine…all JKR’s…unless you don’t recognize it that is…

Chapter 5: Back at Hogwarts

A rush of warm air greeted the students as they entered the Great Hall. Thousands of candles floated in the air above the five tables gave off a warm, soft light. The house tables were each set with shiny gold plates, glasses, silverware and napkins in a promise of the feast that was soon to come. Students, still conversing about the attack on the train, made their way to their respective house table and sat down. The professors sat up at the Head Table watching as the students filed into the Great Hall for another year.

John gave Marlene a kiss on the cheek before reluctantly going over to sit with his friends at the Ravenclaw table. Lily and Marlene made their way over the Gryffindor table and sat down near where the newly sorted first years would be sitting. James and his friends sat down several seats from them with the two other Gryffindors in their year, Rick Heath and Robert Stone.

Marlene and Lily chatted while they watched Professor Flitwick set up the sorting hat. Julia Brown and her best friend, Kathy Bentley, came over and sat down across from them.

“Hello, Marlene,” Kathy said, flipping her sandy blonde hair over her shoulder. “Lily, congratulations on making Head Girl.”

“Thanks,” Lily replied with a smile. “Did you both have a nice summer?”

“Mine was wonderful!” Julia said, her large dark eyes filled with excitement. “My parents took my sister and me to France. It was amazing. We went to the Eiffel Tower and visited the Wizarding district as well as the Muggle one. It’s amazing how similar they are in actuality.” She glanced over at Kathy, who nodded encouragingly, and then continued speaking in a lower and more serious tone. “Lily, what happened on the train? The seventh years and all the prefects seemed to know what was going on but they refused to tell anyone. We stopped so suddenly. That’s never happened before.”

“Professor Dumbledore is going to explain it to everyone after the feast,” Lily told her. “Oh, look,” she said changing the subject. “The sorting is starting.” She pointed to the doors where Professor McGonagall was leading the first years in. They walked up nervously to the head table and formed a line in front of the Head table, shuffling to try not to be the first (or last) in line. A blonde haired boy was picking his nose, before his hand was slapped away by his neighbor, while a dark haired girl stood serenely, arms crossed, ignoring the chaos around her. Every so often a first year would shoot a confused look at the sorting hat propped on the stool a few feet in front of them. None of them knew what to make of it. The first years startled when the sorting hat opened a tear in its brim and began its song.

Many, many years ago

When I was just a hat

I sat on Godric’s head

Doing nothing except that.

Then one day he took me off

And cast some complex spells

So now I’ll sit upon your head

And put you where it tells.

Brave and daring you must be

To belong in Gryffindor

Their strength and courage only show

There are things worth fighting for.

For Hufflepuff, a patient hand

With a heart that’s just and loyal

And don’t forget a hard worker who

Is unafraid of toil

But Slytherin will only take those

Of cunning and ambition

For they are those who always find

A way to gain admission.

But worry not if none of them

Seem to fit your kind

To Ravenclaw you will go

If you’ve a ready mind.

So come on up and put me on

Try not to be afraid

I’ll put you where you belong

Let us not be delayed.

The students and teachers burst out into applause and the hat bowed to each table before becoming still again. Professor McGonagall stood up and unrolled a scroll with all the first years name’s on it. She cleared her throat and the hall quieted down as most of the students turned their attention to the sorting.

“Aclobberly, Richard!”

A small boy with curly brown hair walked up and nervously sat down on the stool and put the sorting hat on. There was a moment’s pause-

“RAVENCLAW!”

The table second from the left bust out into applause and Richard Aclobberly went to sit in an open seat.

“Barnes, Adriel!”

A girl with long, blonde hair and an upturned nose went quietly to put the hat on. It almost immediately shouted, “HUFFLEPUFF!”

“Basile, Sarah!”

The dark haired girl Lily had noticed before went up and calmly put the hat on. It took more then a minute before it finally called out, “SLYTHERIN!”

The Slytherin table cheered nastily as Sarah Basile made her way over to them and sat down primly in an empty seat next to Dan Rosier. He and his friends leaned forward to introduce themselves.

“Carson, Charlotte” and “Dukes, Robin” both went to Ravenclaw. But “Franklin, Allegra”, “Furness, Andrew” and “Hartung, Daniel” were all sorted into Gryffindor.

Lily let out a sigh of relief. She had been beginning to wonder if anyone would be sorted into Gryffindor. She, Marlene, Julia and Kathy all greeted the new Gryffindors as they sat down at the table. Allegra blushed faintly and played with the end of her braid while the two boys gave good natured grins before turning back to watch the rest of the first year be sorted.

Finally, the last name was called and “Zoller, Helen” was sorted into Hufflepuff.

Professor McGonagall rolled up her scroll and took the sorting hat away while everyone clapped for the new first years. Then Dumbledore stood up and the Hall immediately fell silent.

“Welcome to another year at Hogwarts!” he said. “I know you are all wondering what exactly happened on the train this afternoon. But, for now I ask that you all do you best to enjoy the feast our house elves have so carefully prepared for us. Questions will be answered later. Now, eat up!”

The empty plates on the tables magically filled with food. Everything imaginable was there. From roast beef to carrots and peas and even, for some odd reason, peppermint humbugs. The first years’ eyes were wide with amazement as they helped themselves to the food. Their excited voices where, however, punctured by the more serious tones of the other students. What was it, they wondered, that was so serious that it could take the seemingly permanent twinkle from Dumbledore’s eye?

Lily glanced down the table and noticed James and his friends were sitting close together whispering furtively over a plate of food. Sirius grinned mischievously as James waved his wand over the plate. His food glowed purple for a moment and then returned to normal. Sirius let out a burst of laughter.

“Go on. Taste it Prongs,” he said.

“No way! You do it Moony, it was your idea.”

“Actually,” Remus argued. “It was Padfoot’s idea. I just found the spell.”

“Well someone has to try it.” This was from Peter.

The other three all looked at him.

“Uh-uh! No way! I always have to test everything!” Peter whined.

“Fine. Give it here.” Sirius grabbed the plate from James and took a bite of the roast beef. He chewed slowly, swallowed and then took a sip of pumpkin juice. The others looked at him expectantly.

“Well,” James asked. “Did it work?”

Sirius set down his glass, swallowed his mouthful and let another huge grin break out on his face. “That spell sure did the trick.” He winked at the others. “Really brings out the flavor.”

“Excellent,” James said, rubbing his hands together. “When do we do it?”

Remus looked around the Hall. “Not tonight,” he said. “I think everyone needs to be able to focus on Dumbledore‘s speech.”

“So tomorrow morning then?” Sirius asked.

“Perfect,” James agreed. “There’s a few finishing touches I’d like to add…” He trailed off and grinned at the others.

After about an hour of feasting Dumbledore once again stood up and motioned for attention. The Hall fell silent. Everyone waited with trepidation to hear exactly what had happened.

“This afternoon, there was a Death Eater attack on the school train.”

The Great Hall immediately broke out into frantic chatter. Those who had know what had happened tried to quiet everyone down. Students sitting near Lily and James began to rapidly fire questions at them to which they nodded gravely. Dumbledore pulled out his wand and with a loud bang, shot purple sparks into the air. The hall returned their attention to him.

“As much as it grieves me to have to be the one to tell you this,” Dumbledore continued. “I feel you have the right to know. A good number of your parents will be appalled that I have told you,” he paused and looked around the hall. “I want to make it clear that you are perfectly safe here at Hogwarts. Lord Voldemort-” There was a unified gasp at his name. “-would not dare to attack this school directly. Trips to Hogsmeade will be postponed until further notice-” there was a unified groan. “-but everything else will be continuing as normal.”

“Does that mean quidditch is still on?” Sirius called out.

Dumbledore’s calm blue eyes twinkled. “Yes, Mr. Black, it does. Trials will be held in the second week of the term. Anyone interesting in playing for their house teams should contact Madam Hooch or their team captain. And all students should note that the Forbidden Forest is simply that. Also, anyone who has concerns about this afternoon’s attack, please, do not hesitate to contact either your head of house or myself.” Dumbledore raised his wand. “With that said, let us sing the school song and then it’s off to bed.” He gave his wand a flick and words spelled themselves out with a long golden ribbon. Everyone began singing in a different tune, and the combination of all the different voices and keys sounded like something akin to a chainsaw on an iron fence. When the song was finally finished Dumbledore cleared the words and sent everyone off to bed.

The song had done nothing to lighten the mood as the students got up to leave. House prefects called all their first years over to show them the way to their House’s Common Room and dormitories.

James, Sirius and Peter followed behind Remus and Missy as they led the Gryffindor first years to Gryffindor Tower, still whispering about the prank they were going to pull tomorrow morning. Lily and Marlene followed not far along behind them, heads together discussing Dumbledore‘s speech.

After saying the password, “Hebridean Black” (Sirius joked about it being a relative of his until Lily pointedly told him that it was a type of dragon), they all headed up to their separate dormitories for a good night’s rest.

********

A knock on the door sounded just as Lily went to turn on the shower. She hurriedly pulled on one of the bath robes hanging by the sink before opening the Head bathroom door to a yawning James Potter.

“What is it?” she asked James exasperatedly. “I just got in here.”

James rubbed his eyes sleepily. “I just got a note from Dumbledore. He wants to see us before breakfast.”

“Fine,” Lily answered. She was about to shut the bathroom door when she realized that he was already dressed in his robes. She leaned against the doorframe and raised an eyebrow at him. “Why are you up so early? It‘s just before seven. Breakfast doesn‘t start for another hour.”

James cleared his throat. “Studying,” he answered, looking at a point somewhere above her head.

Lily narrowed her eyes at him. “Classes haven’t even started yet,” she said slowly before it dawned on her. “You were pranking weren’t you? And you being Head Boy too.” She threw up her hands furiously. “Of all the nerve. I would have thought even you’d have more sense then that- especially after what happened yesterday.”

“That’s why we decided to do it today instead of last night like we were originally planning. We figured that people would need something to lighten their mood after what happened. And its completely harmless anyways, no need to get you knickers in a twist about it.”

Lily glared at James. “Don’t worry, I won’t,” she said before shutting the bathroom door in his face.

James stared blankly at the closed door before the sound of running water snapped him out of his reverie. “I hate it when she gets like that. No matter what I do, it always seems to set her off.” He ran a hand through his hair and went to sit on the couch to wait for Lily when it hit him. “I’m sitting on a couch while Lily Evans is taking a shower in the next room.” He let out a short laugh. It was all a bit surreal. He laid back on the couch, pillowing head with his arms and closed his eyes. He yawned again before falling into a light doze. “Getting up early for pranks is a bit tiring…”

********

“Potter, wake up!”

James opened his eyes. He was lying on his stomach with one arm hanging over the edge of the couch. He fumbled for his glasses, which had somehow fallen to the floor, and put them on. Lily’s bright green eyes and a small nose lightly dusted with freckles slowly came into focus. “Wh-what?” he asked with a yawn.

Lily made a noise of exasperation. “You said that Dumbledore wanted to see us before breakfast, didn’t you?”

“Oh, yeah,” James agreed. He got up, stretched, then straitened his robes and ran a hand through his hair trying to get it into some sort of order. With Lily’s hair clipped back so neatly on either side of the face made him feel like a slob with is messy black mop.

Lily tutted. “Give it up, Potter. You’ll never get it to lie flat.”

James silently agreed. His hair simply grew that way- all over the place. He grabbed his bag from beside the portrait hole and followed Lily to Dumbledore’s office. When they reached the gargoyle Lily gave it the password (“Acid Pops”) and they rode the stairs up to Dumbledore‘s office.

James knocked on the door and Professor Dumbledore called for them to enter. He was sitting behind his desk which was covered with letters and James noticed that there were a few scorch marks on the walls as well.

Dumbledore smiled wryly when he noticed James looking. “As you can see Mr. Potter, quite a few students have already written home about yesterday’s events.” He motioned for them to sit down. “Yesterday’s attack only proved how powerful Lord Voldemort has become. The train is protected by numerous spells, yet Voldemort managed to get one of his Death Eaters aboard.”

“How did he get on, sir?” James asked.

“A clever use of Polyjuice Potion-”

“But, sir,” Lily interrupted. “I thought Polyjuice Potion was illegal.”

“Unfortunately not, Miss Evans. Although, some people in the Ministry have been trying their best to make it so, Mr. Bartemius Crouch in particular, it is highly useful for Aurors. So it remains legal, even though others may use it for a less noble purpose.”

“Oh, alright then. Sorry for interrupting. Please continue.”

“Not at all, Miss Evans. Now, as I was saying. The Death Eater took the place of Benjamin Frisson, one of the train’s guards. At the first chance he got Frisson disabled the other guards and then made his way to the front of the train.” He paused. “Polyjuice takes some time to make and it is an immensely complicated potion. This attack was well thought out. That a Death Eater could so easily gain access to the school train worries me. Voldemort has been gaining power and supporters these past few years. I believe that he will turn his focus to the school. Yesterday’s attack only further supports my theory. I would like the two of you to keep your ears and eyes open for anything remotely pertaining to Voldemort, even if it seems like an offhanded comment, and let me know about it.” Lily and James both nodded. “Now, one more thing before you go,” Dumbledore continued. He took a stack of parchments from his desk and handed them to Lily. “These are this year’s timetables. Each houses are marked, just give them to the house prefects and they will pass them out to the other students.” He handed two other parchments to James. “These are your timetables. You will note a free period at the end of the week. That time is for you to meet with me about any questions or concerns you have. They are not mandatory so if there is nothing you need to share with me it is a free period for you.”

“Thank you, Professor,” Lily said, standing up. James stood up also and stepped around Lily to open the door for her.

“I will see you both at breakfast.” Dumbledore shut the door behind them and turned to his portraits. “They are the most intriguing pair,” he said with a mischievous twinkle in his eye, before turning back to the letters that awaited him on his desk.

********

The Great Hall was filled when Lily and James arrived there for breakfast. It was just before eight so the tables were devoid of food. Lily handed the timetables to the house prefects before taking her own from James. She sat down with Marlene and James sat with his friends a few places down. He exchanged a gleeful look with Sirius. “Is everything all set?” he asked. “Sorry I had to leave before we were finished but Dumbledore wanted to see me and Evans.”

“Don’t worry about it, Prongs,” Sirius said. “Moony and I finished it up alright.”

Remus looked up from his book.. “I can’t wait to see the looks on their faces,” he said, grinning widely. “We even managed to get the Head Table. Oh and I altered the charm a bit. Now its every other bite or sip you take. I reckon everyone is going to think they’re a bit mad by the end of the meal.”

James let out a howl of laughter and Lily gave him a scathing look. He smiled and winked cheekily back at her. The food appeared on the tables and Lily turned back to fill her plate after one last glare.

James watched her spoon eggs and sausage onto her plate and then fill her glass with pumpkin juice out of the corner of his eye while he filled his own plate.

Lily took a sip of her pumpkin juice and said something to Marlene before taking another. She frowned slightly and sipped her juice again,. Tasting nothing wrong with it she set about eating her eggs. She swallowed her first bite easily and then took a drink of her juice to wash it down but choked on it. Coughing, she turned to look at James.

James grinned widely and took a large gulp of his own juice and then a smaller sip. He could feel Lily glaring at him.

“Rather good pumpkin juice isn’t it, Prongs?” Sirius asked him loudly, with a glance towards Lily and her friends. Marlene had just taken a second bite of her eggs but spit them back out into her napkin, making a face of disgust.

“Yes, it is,” James replied with a perfectly straight face. “A bit of a shock at first though, seeing how it tastes like milk every other sip. How’re the eggs, Moony?”

Remus grinned and took a bite of his eggs. “Looks like eggs, smells like eggs, feels like eggs…” He took another bite. “Tastes a bit like sausage, though.” The Marauders all burst out laughing.

Lily watched James eat. She knew that this prank of theirs would effect them as much as the rest of them but they were eating their breakfast normally. Then she noticed how they were eating it. They were taking large and small bites alternately. Same with their drinks, first a large sip them a smaller one. Lily sipped her juice again. It tasted like it should. She took another sip, swirling it around in her mouth a bit before swallowing, it tasted like milk. Surprising if you didn’t know what to expect. Marlene looked at her quizzically.

“It tastes like milk every other sip you take,” she explained to her. “The eggs are the same only they taste like sausage instead.”

Marlene gave a small ‘oh’ of understanding. “They really are creative aren’t they?” she said. “I mean, it takes a lot of skill to change the flavor of food around without changing anything else. You have to be really skilled.”

Lily huffed. “More like really lucky.”

“Come on. You have to admit that they have a knack for learning spells pretty quickly. James is really good in Transfiguration and the only one better than him at Charms is you. He’s really not that bad when you think about it.”

“James Potter, not that bad?” Lily asked incredulously. “Are we talking about the same person?”

“Oh, really,” Marlene said impatiently. “The only reason you hate him so much is because he was always asking you out. And, might I remind you, he hasn’t done that since you told him you’d rather go out with the Giant Squid.”

“I don’t hate him. He just really annoys me.” Lily looked at James. He was laughing at something with his friends per usual. Lily turned back to Marlene. “At least he stopped messing up his hair so much,” she added offhandedly. “You’re right. I guess he really isn’t that bad.”

“Yeah,” Marlene said teasingly, reaching for her bag. “He’s kind of good looking too.”

Lily raised an eyebrow at her and picked up her own bag. “If you like the ‘just got out of bed’ look,” she said, standing up. She and Marlene walked out of the Great Hall. Before walking through the door Lily glanced back over her shoulder to look at James. “He is rather adorable, though, once you get past the arrogance.”

A/N: And that was chapter 5! Again, I’m sorry it took so long to get out. I had a block writing the one part and even though it would have worked to split the chapter up, I wanted it to all be together. Also (and this is really exciting) my best friend just had a baby- born Jan 11! He’s the cutest thing! I was so excited all I could do these past few days was stare at my computer with a goofy grin on my face. Anyways, I really hoped you liked it! I tried my hand (keyboard?) at the sorting hat song…I hope it was ok- it was a bit short compared to JKR‘s…they’re harder to write then you would think! Also, I have no clue what time classes start for them. Our first class would always be around 8 so I figured theirs would start a bit later since they live at Hogwarts for the school year they have two(?) classes each day. Don’t forget to review! Much love!

A/N: Don’t kill me please! I know its taking me forever to get the next chapter out but I promise you I am working on it. I haven’t forgotten! It’s halfway finished and the reason its taking so long is that I’m going back and reworking some of the previous ones because it fits better with the plot and what’s going to happen with Lily and James and all. Chapter 6 is (hopefully) going to be extra long to make up for the long wait. I promise you it will be up before April. Also when its posted you might want to go back and reread chapter 4 and maybe 5. Please don’t hate me! And thank you so much for sticking with me thus far…I never knew writing something like this was such hard work.

Much love,

Jetta