the marauders- an inseparable bond

[26] relationships

The marauders were sitting in first-period transfiguration, yawning.

"Seventh year is essential to your career," said Professor McGonagall, pacing in front of the class, "You may think that your NEWTs are far away, but they will creep on you before you know it. This year will by far be harder than any other, and you will need to but in the work. Now, this term we will be working mostly on human transfigurations. Of course, you will not be able to turn yourselves completely into something else, this requires being an animagus."

The marauders exchanged smug glances.

"So what we will working on are transfiguring small aspects of our appearance. Today, we will be turning our fingernails into glass."

Sirius' hand flew up.

"Mr. Black?"

"Yeah, uh, miss, what's the point in that?"

"The point is starting small in human transfigurations so that eventually you will be able to transfigure yourself in a way that is useful. Any other questions?"

She showed the incantation and wand movement, then set them to work.

"So how was the date with Lilac last night, Pete?" asked James.

"Good," he mumbled.

Remus raised an eyebrow.

"I- Well, alright. It was going pretty well I think, and then, well-" he lowered his voice, "we kissed."

"High five," said Sirius, "What's wrong with that?"

Peter ignored his held-up hand.

"Well-um, I don't think I was very good at it. She kind of looked grossed out afterwards and then we parted ways pretty quickly after that."

Sirius giggled.

"Padfoot," said Remus sharply. He then turned to Peter.

"It's okay, after all, it was your first time. You'll get better. Besides, she's not going to break up with you just for that."

"I know, but it's not only that. I just never know what to say to her and-"

"Boys! Let me see your fingernails."

Sheepishly, the marauders turned to McGonagall and showed their quite ordinary fingernails. She shook her head.

"This is the type of behavior that simply will not be acceptable this year. Potter, why don't you give it a try?"

"Sure thing miss," said James, attempting a cocky smile, "Er- glassify!"

"If you had listened correctly, you would know that the correct incantation is glissio," said McGonagall coldly. They were given extra practice as homework.

"You think by now she would have stopped trying to discipline us?" said Sirius as they left the classroom at break.

"McGonagall let up on us?" laughed James, "Never."

"Last topic please? Any dating advice?" butt in Peter.

At that moment Lily caught up to them.

James immediately grinned and reached for her hand.

"Hey," he said.

"Hey," she grinned back.

"Right Lils, you're a girl, what dating advice could you give Wormtail?" said Sirius, popping his head up in between the two lovers.

"Don't call me Lils, Padfoot."

"C'mon, you need a nickname! What other ideas do you have?"