Of The Solstice

Start of Term

When we got off the train we met up with Lily, Dorcas, and Marlene. We found an empty carriage, we all piled in, James tapped the side signaling that we were settled. As soon as we entered the carriage, the excitement in the air was palpable. Lily, Dorcas, and Marlene were chatting away, catching up on their summers and giggling at inside jokes. James and Sirius were busy discussing the coming Quidditch season, while Remus sat quietly, absorbed in a book.

We arrived at the castle and made our way straight to the Great Hall. As we took our seats at the Gryffindor table, we eagerly expected the start of the feast. Dumbledore began the night by giving a heartfelt speech, welcoming the new and returning students to Hogwarts. The Sorting Ceremony then began, with each new student being sorted into their respective houses. As the ceremony ended, we stood up and applauded the newest members of Gryffindor house. Food appeared on the table, and Dumbledore's voice boomed through the hall, "Let the feast begin!"

As we enjoyed our meal, Remus spoke up, breaking the silence. "So, what classes are you all taking this term?" he inquired, looking around the table.

"I've got Advanced Potions, Defense Against the Dark Arts, and Transfiguration," I replied, taking a sip of pumpkin juice. "I'm just not sure of the exact times yet."

James looked at me with envy. "How did you manage to get away with only taking three classes?" he asked.

I grinned. "I took extra classes last year, and Advanced Potions alone has enough homework to keep me busy," I explained

"Looks like we'll only have Defense Against the Dark Arts together this term," Remus said with a smile.

"I've got Potions with Lily, Sirius, and you," James replied.

"Wait, you guys aren't taking Transfiguration this term?" I asked, feeling confused. "I thought we all loved Professor McGonagall."

"I have to take Herbology. I skipped it last term," Remus explained.

"And I have to take Astronomy and Herbology," James said with a sigh.

"You have Herbology with me, James!" Lily exclaimed, trying to lighten the mood.

"I suppose that makes it worth it" James smirked and planted a kiss on Lily's cheek.

I looked over at Sirius "What are you taking?" I asked.

"Potions, Defense, Divination, and History of Magic" Sirius said, almost complaining.

I made an exaggerated grimace "Why on earth are you taking history of magic this term?" I asked

"Because It was either that or Beasts class," he scoffed.

"So, I have this idea-" James whispers.

"Whatever it is, no," I joked with him.

"Oh, come on Bugs, you love a good prank on Snivellus!" Sirius chimed in.

I roll my eyes. "Why do you insist on terrorizing Severus? At least let the term begin."

"It is a little mean, Darling," Lily whispered.

"You two just need to have some fun!" James replied.

"We do have fun!" Lily and I said in unison.

Sirius snorted, and Remus cleared his throat to disguise a laugh. James gave us a look of disbelief and said, "Yes, and I've never played Quidditch."

After the feast, the seven of us made our way to the common room. I took a seat on the end of the couch, resting against the armrest. Marlene and Dorcas sat next to me. Sirius took the armchair, Remus chose to sit cross-legged on the floor, and Lily and James took the other small couch.