Chapter 4

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The scarlet steam engine hissed as the Hogwarts Express was getting ready to departure very soon from Platform 9¾. The clattering of luggage wheels echoed through the station as the Hogwarts students and their families were mingling before the new term started after Christmas hols. The marauders were going into the second term of their second year while regulus was going into the second term of his first year. As they entered the platform their excited chatter filling the air alongside the rest of the Hogwarts students. 

With trunks in tow, the group made their way to the train. The anticipation of a new term at Hogwarts bubbled within them, and the boys couldn't help but exchange grins as they approached the familiar scarlet compartments.

Before boarding the Hogwarts Express, the Marauders and Regulus found themselves in a warm exchange with James' parents, Euphemia and Fleamont. The platform buzzed with the excitement of departing students, but within this little pocket of conversation, there was a sense of familial warmth.

Fleamont, his greying beard neatly groomed, clapped Sirius on the back with a hearty chuckle. "Sirius, my boy! Ready for another term of legendary mischief?"

Sirius grinned, "Always, Mr. Potter. This term, we're planning something truly unforgettable."

Euphemia, her eyes twinkling, turned to James, affectionately fixing a strand of his unruly hair. "James, dear, make sure you're not causing too much trouble. We don't want Professor McGonagall sending us another owl."

James saluted with a grin, "No promises, Mum, but I'll do my best."

Meanwhile, Regulus stood slightly apart, a mix of nerves and anticipation in his eyes. 

Fleamont noticed and approached him with a warm smile. "Regulus, ready for another term in Gryffindor?"

Regulus nodded, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Yes, Mr. Potter. It's been... interesting."

Euphemia, always perceptive, observed the dynamics. "Well, we're delighted to have you with us, Regulus. You're practically part of the family."

James added, "Absolutely! Hogwarts is better with the Black brothers around."

Fleamont, with a twinkle in his eye, gestured toward the train. "Well, it seems the time has come. Off you go, boys! Make us proud, and don't forget to write."

As they exchanged final goodbyes, Sirius and Regulus felt a genuine warmth from the Potters. With a shared sense of excitement, they boarded the Hogwarts Express, eager for the adventures and camaraderie that awaited them at the castle.

As they settled into their usual compartment, the excitement reached a crescendo. The train whistle blew, signaling the departure from the platform. Through the window, the magical world flashed by, revealing glimpses of rolling hills, mystical creatures, and enchanted landscapes.

Sirius spoke first, "I can't wait to see the look on Minnie's face when we pull off some epic pranks this term. It's going to be legendary."

James, grinned, "Oh, it'll be more than legendary. It's going to be talked about for generations. The Marauders' masterpiece!"

Peter, chimed in, "And we'll have to come up with new secret passages to outsmart Filch. Maybe add a few surprises along the way."

Regulus, though less vocal, found himself caught in the infectious enthusiasm of the Marauders. He couldn't deny the thrill of the upcoming mischief, a welcome distraction from the challenges at home.

As the train journeyed through the magical countryside, a familiar voice called from the corridor, "Hey, Marauders! Room for a few more in here?"

The compartment door slid open, revealing the other second-year Gryffindors, minus Lily, who was most likely with Snape, as well as Emmline and Hestia. A chorus of greetings erupted, and soon, the compartment was alive with laughter and animated discussions. The friends caught up on their summer adventures, shared plans for the upcoming term.

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