mad woman | LILY EVANS

1. starry eyes

The steady hum of bustling voices filled the air, blending with the soft hiss of steam as Platform 9¾ came alive with the excitement of another school year. Young witches and wizards darted around, tugging trunks and waving last-minute goodbyes, but one particular group had gathered near the front of the platform, laughter echoing through the crowded station.

"Oi, Remus, stop looking so glum!" Sirius Black elbowed his friend, a mischievous grin on his face. "It's a new year—more pranks to pull, and hopefully fewer detentions."

Remus Lupin gave a small, reluctant smile, his gaze flicking towards the red-haired girl standing a few feet away. Lila Hargrove, his girlfriend, had just arrived, her eyes lighting up when she spotted him. Before Remus could respond to Sirius, Lila was at his side, looping her arm through his with a warm smile.

"Honestly, Remus, don't listen to Sirius. We're here to actually study this year, right?" she teased, though her laughter suggested otherwise.

James Potter ran a hand through his messy hair, his gaze darting around as if searching for someone specific. "Speaking of new things," he muttered, almost to himself.

"Oh, here we go again," came a voice from behind. Ellie Lupin, Remus's sister, rolled her eyes and nudged Junia Amore, who was beside her. Both girls wore knowing looks as they caught James's hopeful glances around the station.

"You think he's looking for... you know... her?" Junia whispered, nudging Ellie.

"Who else?" Ellie replied with a smirk. "Though he's wasting his time. Lily Evans isn't going to just fall into his arms because he showed up."

Peter Pettigrew, overhearing, grinned awkwardly, adjusting his grip on his trunk. Maeve Gunam, his girlfriend, appeared beside him, offering him a small, encouraging smile. "Don't worry, Peter," she said softly, "I'm sure you'll get more than enough attention without trying too hard."

Nearby, Marlene McKinnon linked arms with Willow Grace, her girlfriend, who was grinning as she playfully ruffled Marlene's hair. "Think they'll let us share a dorm this year?" Willow teased, eyes twinkling.

"I'd say that's a long shot, but we could always work on our Transfiguration skills and get creative," Marlene replied, leaning into her with a laugh.

As the Marauders and their friends gathered their things, a few more familiar faces appeared. Veya Quovey, Anaya Black, and Adri Malfoy arrived in quick succession, each with the distinct air of someone used to making an impression. The trio exchanged glances, nodding politely at the others, though their attention seemed to be directed elsewhere. Lia Cinnamon, another arrival, pulled a small notebook from her pocket, jotting down thoughts as she took in the scene. She'd always had a knack for observation, a trait the others sometimes found both intriguing and unsettling.

Just then, a tall, quiet figure stepped into view. Midnight King, known for her mysterious demeanor, carried herself with a silent confidence that demanded respect. She offered a faint nod to the group but didn't linger, instead making her way toward the train without a word.

James, momentarily distracted, finally turned his attention back to the group. "Right, then," he said, trying to mask his disappointment at Lily's absence, "looks like we're all here. Let's make this year unforgettable!"

"Always do, don't we?" Sirius smirked, throwing an arm around his girlfriend, Aria Hart. She laughed, leaning into him with a smile.

Sage Grave and Mary Florence, the last of the group, exchanged amused looks as they watched James and Sirius puff themselves up. Sage, with her cool gaze and calm confidence, arched an eyebrow at Mary. "Another year of marauding chaos?" she murmured.