Great post, Connie! I LOVE the Hermione/Ginny interaction! I always wonder what they talk about when the boys are off doing their business. I really enjoy the insight. It's adorable the way Ginny talks about Harry, and then Hermione kills the mood with logical explanations! It's perfecto!

I wonder where Crookshanks is off too. I love the "jaunty prance". Excellent vocab. I guess I just have to wait until "Crookshanks on the Prowl" to find out.

Excellent, again! Can't wait for the next one!

Connie...

I have to tell you, the chapters just keep getting better! The slumber party was perfect. The gossip that was flying was pure juice! Now, what I want to know is why you didn't complete a few of those sentences... because, we, the readers, want to know! Sorry, I couldn't help but tease... I have an imagination.

Isn't it funny how every young girl dreams of this, getting married to her Prince Charming and living happily ever after... Anyway, Congratulations! Your Ginny/Hermione conversion was very believable.

Now, down to the business at hand... Crookshanks! Wonder who he's going to go and meet? Might it be his old friend, Sirius? I can't wait until the next chapter, Connie! I can tell that things are going to start getting very interesting... I wonder what Miss Lissydove will think of Sirius' return?

Superb writing, Connie. Keep it coming!
Katie

Thanks, Connie
Bahaha, I love girly chats. They're quite amusing
bahaha, a wee bit cocky, don't ya think? But I still ove it and completely agree with her
If only she had given it to Malfoy too...
Hmmmm. What is he up to? Is he going to try and find Sirius??
Great post, Connie PLEASE PAMS!!!

Very cute!

Looking forward to more.

sweet post Connie...Ginny going all gaga over Harry was very cute and yet funny...pams when you can...

He is so cute! Did you notice there isn’t even a pinch of fat on him? And his stomach is so flat and ripped!” She said dreamily.“Gee Ginny; I felt sorry for him, I thought he looked kind of stringy.”
Love the contrast here between rose tinted and unbiased vision.

Great chapter.

Veggie Potter: Hey Stef, thanks so much. It's a lot of fun writing what I think might have happened. I know I did this plenty when I was young.

Miss Weasley: Hey Katie! Thanks for reading and saying wonderful things about my writing. Katie, how, what, why would you think that?!?!?!?!? Hehehe I'm sure you along with everyone else is correct in your assumption. Let's find out.

Emily Black: Hey Emily, (wonder how many times today I've written that) Thanks for coming back! And thanks for all the nice things you always say. Ah, yes. I'm sure without a doubt she wanted to get him first, but you know how he always umm, (thinking of a way to say this without offending the Draco lovers) is so thoughtful as to let Crabbe and Goyle stand in front of him when he's rude and obnoxious to others.

AmbiguouslyMe: Thank you! I'm so glad you are reading and enjoying my story.

Harita: Thanks Harita for taking the time to read and post. Please take care to stay on top of your studies, and the best of luck with them. I know exams are rough, but I trust your gray matter will not fail you, and you'll do great!

Derfel: Thanks Owen for reading and commenting. I'm sure it couldn't have been all that exciting for a macho man to read this girly chapter, but being the friend you are you found something to enloy, and I am grateful to you.
Thank you. Very wonderfully put.

Thanks to everybody else who read and didn't comment. Thanks you so much to each and every reader. I do love each of you. I'd like to thank Emily for offering to be my Beta and doing a spectacular job. She keeps me learning and I am grateful for her help in making this story a better read. Thank you Emily. You'll notice all my was and were's sees and saws are all in order starting tonight.

Next Thursday's chapter 27, "Twelve Years Dieing, One Night to Start Living"







CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

Crookshanks on the Prowl


He was on his way to Hogsmeade when he decided to change into Jim. It had been awhile since he was last in this form. “It’s nice walking upright for a change,” he thought. He took in the cold air and decided he wouldn’t stay in this form too long though because it was downright cold to him. He missed his thick fur that protected him from the elements of nature. It is part of a werecat’s magic that they are wearing clothes when in human form. It is just an illusion of clothes, for they actually don’t have anything on. Just the same, he was enjoying his surroundings.

The serene ambiance of his surroundings was breathtaking. A hue of different colors beheld his eyes. No artist could create the splendor the light of the brilliant full moon projected onto the enraptured earth and all it encompassed. As he looked at the moon, his mind went briefly to a night in the menagerie, and he smiled a longing smile.

Back to the here and now, the dark, silvery blue light highlighted the purple and white heather that lived in patches all over the hillside. It touched lightly on the red bushes that cropped up around big, grey boulders and brought attention to the gold and red leaves that fell gently in the slight breeze that stirred now and then.

The dew settled on webs that spiders had spun arduously as a trap and turned them into shimmering works of art. Moss Roses, although closed up for the night, looked like different shades of purple, yellow, red, and white glittered pearls magnified by the light of the moon.

The night animals and insects each gave their own renditions of tranquility. He heard a nightingale boasting his splendid song to his heartthrob, and a wolf baying to the moon a short distance off. The wolf brought Jim out of his state of wonder in the beauty he was partaking. He thought of how lucky Lupin was that Dumbledore had Snape brew a potion of wolfsbane, so he could cuddle up on the floor of his office tonight. It was the last night of the full moon. Suddenly, Jim stopped and came to an abrupt realization. He knew where Sirius Black was.

He took in the magnificent beauty for just a moment, and then he Apparated back within the walls of the castle. Back to being Crookshanks, and thankful for his fur coat, he selected a particularly thick clump of grass in front of The Whomping Willow and curled up for a nap.

It wasn’t long before his suspicions proved correct. A slight noise came from the trunk of the Whomping Willow tree. The limbs started flailing about, and then they stopped. From the shadows emerged a great black dog. Seeing a cat looking at him and not running from him puzzled him. Crookshanks reached out and touched his heart with his magic. “Yes, this is Sirius, and his mind is intact; he hasn’t gone crazy. His loyalty to James and Lily hadn’t changed. He is still going to track down their murderer and the miserable accomplice and rid the world of them. He wants to first find Harry Potter, make sure he is okay, and let him know who he is and what his intentions are.”

Crookshanks’ heart sank at Sirius’s physical condition. He could tell that mentally Sirius was astonishingly sound and ready to start his quest. Crookshanks knew however, that Sirius had to build up his body before he could do anything. He was just about to touch his mind and tell him who he was and that he was here to help him, when Sirius cocked his head to one side then the other and gave a soft little “ruff.” Then he dropped his front legs and chest to the ground with his bottom end still standing and his tail wagging a mile a minute. Soft little barks and yaps, only for the cat to hear, made Crookshanks laugh within his thoughts. Sirius wanted to know if they were going to have a game of chase, or would he scratch his nose if he just passed by to tend to his business.

Crookshanks was sorely tempted and considered having some fun with Sirius before he got down to business. He decided not to, but just then, Sirius, still in the same position, yapped some more, raised his paw and pawed the air in front of him. He said, “Come on now, I don’t have a lot of time. Is it going to be a game of chase? I’m game if you are. I must warn you though, I’m awfully hungry, and if I catch you, I might eat you.”

He could hardly resist; Sirius was absolutely adorable, but the sooner he let him know whom he was and what he was doing, the sooner he would be able to get Sirius something to eat. He searched his memory and decided on one. “Shoot any hoops lately?” He mimicked dribbling a ball and shooting for a basket.

Sirius’s back legs went out from under him and he rolled over so fast that, as he transformed into a man, he nearly fell backwards. Catching his balance and staring at him, he spoke. “Basketball? Are you - but, no you’re not black and gray, or… dead? You’re a werecat then, aren’t you? Do you, I mean to say,” he scratched his head. “Do you know a cat named Tom?”

“I am indeed Tom, only now I am known as Crookshanks.”

“Well, thanks for not taking me up on the game of chase. I realize I would have been the meal,” Sirius said laughing, sounding more like the dog yapping again.

“You need to work on your human characteristics,” Crookshanks said good-naturedly.

“Yes, well, you have to realize that most of the last twelve years, I’ve been a dog,” he said defensively, yet with a small smile.

“And most of all of my life, I’ve been a cat, and I don’t go around meowing when I’m human,” he said in an understanding voice.

“Point taken,” Sirius said.

“All I’m saying is, if subterfuge is to be continued, you need to work on being human. I understand your plight of the last twelve years, but there’s more at stake than you know.”

“Steak! Man what I wouldn’t do for-” Crookshanks cut in on him and told him they needed to talk. “Alright, what’s on your mind?” he asked wearily.

“Go back to the shack, and I’ll be there in a moment,” he said, and then he turned and ran off. Sirius wasn’t too keen on this order, but he obeyed. He was only back for a couple minutes, when Jim popped in carrying a whole ham, a loaf of bread, a bladder skin of drink, and a blanket. He put the things before Sirius and told him to eat, drink, and be merry, but slowly, so he wouldn’t get sick.

“I swiped the ham from Hagrid’s smoke house, and the bread is from his cupboard. I was going to bring you some sort of brownie looking things, but thought better of it. The blanket I took off his clothesline. It‘s a little damp from the dew though.”

“Oh, thank you so much!” he said. Sirius went to the fireplace eyeing the food, but knew he needed to build a fire and cook the ham. “This is a unique place here. Dumbledore made it to accommodate—”

“Remus when he was here at school. Lily told me. She told me everything that went on here. I felt like I knew all of you before we ever met.”

Sirius chuckled sadly. “It was a long time ago, and we were so foolish, me more than anyone else,” he admitted. He went to the fireplace and touched the grate. A log put itself in the grate. As soon as it settled, it erupted into flames, and three more small logs put themselves in the fire. Sirius impaled the ham onto the spit and before long; the ham was sizzling as it rotated of its own accord at an even pace. Sirius checked the blanket after a bit longer, and wrapped up cozy in it.

He took a huge gulp of his drink, and spewed it from his mouth. “MILK?” he shouted incredulously.

Jim laughed and giggled until he fell over. “You know the old muggle saying, ‘Milk, it does a body good!’ Well, I figured you, ‘need a new you, strengthen your bones and, make new brain cells,’ all that kind of stuff.” Jim moved closer to the fire. Sirius started eating great bites of bread, while washing it down with his milk, as he waited for the ham.

“Hagrid isn’t the best cook in the land, but this is wonderful!” he said. Every now and then he sliced off a piece of ham and tried eating it before it cooled. “This was so good and thoughtful of you to do for me, even the milk. I’m very grateful for this. Thanks, Crookshanks.”

“I’m known as Jim when I’m in human form,” he said holding out his small hand for Sirius to shake. Sirius watched Jim, asking him if James and Lily knew he was a werecat while he clasped his hand in a warm handshake.

“James knew the moment he saw me, but, no, Lily didn’t know. It was the most blessed day of my life when she found me. I was near death and she took me in and nursed me back to health. It was like a breath of fresh air each second I was with her. She had a wonderful life until she reached the age to attend Hogwarts.”

“I know the rest of the story from then on,” Sirius said with a huge slab of ham about to be crammed into his mouth. Although seeing him in his present condition proved Sirius had endured much hardship and suffering, his face beamed with the memory of Lily, and James, his lifelong friend.

“Didn‘t they have the most spectacular wedding? I made quite the dashing best man, if I do say so myself! And on my arm, well, you’ve seen her, she was the most beautiful—” The smile on his face and the brightness in his eyes vanished. The ham, which was about to go into his mouth, dropped to the floor. He sat there silently, then buried his face in his hands and wept soulfully.

Compassion for his friend filled Jim. He squatted down in front of him, put his hand on Sirius’s knee, and said, “Sirius? She’s here. Your Lissydove is here. She heard you escaped, came here, and took a position under Madam Pomfrey in the Hospital Wing.”

Hehehe, I know, right? It was fun though
Awe, well you're welcome. And I hope everyone agrees with my changes...
I loved this paragraph. The description and everything... You have a way with words
haha, that would be fun to watch
I feel so bad for Sirius

Great post as always Connie! PLEASE PAMS!!

Excellent chapter Connie!

I love how you've become more descriptive in this chapter. Your vivid and colourful words really brought the scenery to life. I wished I was there with Crookshanks...

Okay now... this paragraph was just too funny! I wonder what he would've thought of chocolate milk...?

I also liked the playfulness witnessed between Sirius and Jim while they were in their animal forms.

It was comical, and very realistic. Especially when Sirius was down on his front paws with his butt in the air... too cute and puppy-like. Well done.

I could go on and on, but I guess I should give others a chance! All I can say is I hope Sirius gets to see his Lissydove soon. He really does seem torn-up without her!

Great work! See you again next week!
Katie

EmilyBlack: Hey Emily! Thanks for commenting. hehehe, Who wouldn't enjoy reading proper grammar usage, instead of; was, when it should be, were, and the other way around, and let's not forget those impassive verbs, or whatevers. Thanks Emily for keeping things correct. It is very sad! He goes through so much. And just think that if he hadn't been so loyal to James, things could have been so very different for him. But, how would he have been able to? He loved James as a brother whom he really loved.


Miss Weasley: Hey Katie girl! Hehehe! I bet he would love it! If it was the last drink on earth.
I just can't picture him drinking it. I however, would love it. Chocolate milk is the best! Oh please if you must then, go on. Just teasing! Thank you so much, sweetie!

Thank's to everyone for reading. You're loyalty is very much appreciated. Next week, chapter 28, "Crookshanks Set Free?"

CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN


Twelve Years Dying, One Night to Start Living


“Lissy,” Sirius said as he looked at Jim with red eyes. He put his hands on Jim’s shoulders and grasped tightly. “She,” he tried again to speak. Unable to say anything, tears rolled down his face. He slowly started shaking his head. He swallowed hard and tried to draw breath, but his throat was so constricted his breath came in short gasps as a dying man struggling to draw one last breath. He closed his eyes tight, and his quivering chin gave way once again to his anguish. His face was wet with a steady stream of tears.

Years in Azkaban, with the Dementors constantly sucking hope from him making him live in total despair, took its toll on Sirius. All he could dare do while in there was concentrate on getting out to look for and kill Wormtail. He found early on that when he longed for the one woman who ever dwelled in his heart and not his fancy, caused so much despair it crippled his focus. So, Sirius kept any hope of getting the love of his life back, and focused on staying alive. He didn’t understand why they didn’t release him, and more hope drained from him. Sirius came to a point where existing each day was his personal goal. Now, having hope made it almost unbearable for him in his enfeebled state of mind. He just didn’t know how to handle the feeling of it again.

He opened his eyes and gave Jim a determined look. “Lissy,” he whispered, blinking the tears out of his beautiful long lashes. “Here?” he said with a somewhat strangled voice, but getting stronger.

“Yes, and I told her I was going to find you. She is, at this minute, longing for you in her chambers. Err, um, that didn’t quite come out the way I meant it to,” Jim said a little embarrassed.

Sirius smiled at Jim’s discomfiture. He quietly let loose of the grip he had on Jim’s shoulders. (Much to the relief of Jim, as it was extremely painful, but couldn’t bear saying anything to Sirius at the time.)

“Sirius, I don’t have a lot more time I can spend here tonight, so, why don’t you eat, and I’ll start filling you in with the goings on of the last twelve years. Of course it won‘t all get told tonight. First, I want to tell you that I’m in a very good position to gather information and share with you, until we can make our move. I have a new master named Hermione Granger. She and her two best friends attend Hogwarts. They are in the House of Gryffindor. One of her friends’ names is Ron Weasley. Light started dawning on Sirius’s face.

“That milk started working on those new brain cells has it?” Jim asked.

“I like the looks as to where this is going,” said Sirius. “He’s the boy who has Wormtail, and he’s best friends with Harry Potter. It was luck Fudge visited Azkaban that day. I couldn’t believe the very reason I was willing myself to live was actually sitting on that boy’s shoulder. I found out Ron was going to be going to Hogwarts. It was the fact that he was best friends with Harry that determined me to escape right then. Harry is in grave danger.” Sirius speared another piece of ham and chewed it quickly. He took a swig of milk, and then stood up.

“Let’s go.”

“Settle down, we can’t go anywhere yet. There’s a lot more you need to know,” said Jim forcefully. “It wasn’t luck you ended up getting that paper the day Fudge inspected the prison. I caused that to happen. I’ve been planning this operation for twelve years, and we need to start working together to see it through!”

Sirius didn’t want to settle down. He wanted to go kill Wormtail, and while he was there, he could see Harry.

“Look!” he said rather angrily, “I know all I need to know, so, maybe you should just run along and play.”

Jim stood up and glared at Sirius, then let out a fierce roar like a lion. He lifted his hands to show massive claws. “Shall I continue filling you in with information you need to know, or shall I finish transforming to keep you from ruining everything I’ve been working on for twelve years? I’d rather work this out as friends, how about you?”

Sirius, very white in the face, nodded quickly in agreement. He took a deep breath, sat down, and resumed cutting ham and eating it as Jim talked endlessly. He only stopped now and then to answer questions that Sirius asked occasionally.

Jim started with the night Voldemort murdered the three of them. How he did what he did to James was for his faithful servant Snape. Also, that he tried to bring Lily back to Snape, but had to kill her anyway, but without a mark on her was also for Snape. He told him what happened to Harry, how he stood up to him, causing the killing curse to backfire on Voldemort, and the misdirected curse of Voldemort’s, to hit him on the forehead instead of the heart. How Peter had come, gotten Voldemort’s wand, and whined to Harry. He told him of wanting to go with Sirius to hunt down and kill Peter and Voldemort, but Sirius had left before he could talk to him.

“I was sitting right there with you when you were preparing Lily and James for transport to Dumbledore. You did a fine job on them, and they had a real nice funeral. Albus arranged for Petunia and Harry to be able to come, but she turned down the ride. She said she didn’t want to deal with Harry seeing his parents’ dead.”

Another log magically put itself onto the fire.
“I was about to speak to you when you let out that murderous screaming threat. You Disapparated then and I didn’t get to talk to you. I wanted to go with you to find Peter and Voldemort, to kill them for what they did. I made sure Hagrid got off with Harry all right, and then went to search for you. When I did find you, you had Peter cornered and was about to kill him. Peter screamed how you had just murdered James and Lily Potter, and then he cut off his finger and blew up the street. He scurried away as the rat he was and left you looking guilty.”

Sirius finished the milk and cleaned the container with the water pump in the corner of the room. Jim could see the wheels in his brain turning. He cut one more piece of ham, and put the rest in the small icebox that sat beside the pump. As Sirius sat chewing his ham, he mentioned the Aurors getting there so fast.

“Yes, I noticed that as well. Three of them showed up immediately, told the others the story when they got there, then said they wanted to stay behind and clean up the mess. They took you straight to Azkaban. I stepped into the circle and listened. I couldn’t believe what I heard. They were collaborating on a story to tell Fudge so everything would jive. I put the thought in their heads to use the, ‘Priori Incantatem’ on the wand.” Jim paused then asked Sirius, “Do you remember the last spell you used?”

“Scourgify,” Sirius said softly, his mind looking back on the nightmare Harry lived through that night twelve years ago. A tear flowed down his square jaw. Sirius swallowed and rubbed his eyes. “Harry was calling for his cat,” he said softly. He looked at Jim with sorrowful eyes. “I found you, right there by his crib. I knew you weren’t going to live much longer, and I’m sorry, but I knew I wouldn’t be able to save you. Even Hagrid new you were a goner. Anyway, I cleaned you up with the Scourgify spell and tore some strips of a towel that was there, to tie your side back together. Then I swaddled you in the rest of the towel and handed you to Harry. He cuddled you up to him and started rocking and singing to you.”

“Thank you by the way.” Jim interjected, “You have no idea what you did for me when you placed me in Harry’s arms.” Then, Jim shook his head sorrowfully. “But, no, it’s no wonder you don’t remember your last spell. You were out of your mind with grief.”

Sirius stared at Jim, and then the look of remembrance came over his face. Sirius jumped to his feet, covered his face with his shaking hands, and paced the floor. “It was the most horrendous site I’ve ever seen in my life. There is nothing that compares to what I saw that night. It was so hard… I know I had it in my mind to… gather up James and put him and Lily together and… ‘Portus Dumbledore!’ That was the last spell I did with my wand.” He was silent while he started thinking. “Why wasn’t I exonerated? That proved my innocence!” Sirius was livid. “I lost twelve years of my life for nothing! They knew I wasn’t guilty, and they just left me to rot!”

Jim spoke quietly to get Sirius to settle down. “I know it won’t make up for your loss, but I took some vengeance for your injustices that night. There I was waiting for them to go to the Minister of Magic right away. Then, the one holding your wand started firing off illegal curses randomly with it, killing innocent people who were coming out to see what the explosion and yelling was about.”

“But, what was the purpose of that? It wiped out my proof of innocence and made it look like I killed a lot of people. I can’t think what good that would have done for me.”

“I concur, so I stole the wand and ran away just slow enough for them to be able to keep up with me. When I turned a corner, I hid. When they came around the corner, I attacked as a fully transformed werecat. They didn’t have a chance. I killed all three of them easily. Some Aurors returned and carefully ruptured a gas line to make it look like a gas line exploded. Then they performed memory charms on everyone else who was still alive. When everyone left the area, I carried the three men back to the crater and dropped them in the bottom. I caused some rubble to fall over them, then a great piece of the road over top of that. There under the fillings of the crater, and a new road fixed over the whole place, was the final resting place of the three death eaters. Then I took your wand back to James and Lily’s place and hid it. I can Apparate you there and back to get it if you like.”

Sirius’s face went from bright red to ghostly white. “Jim, I know you were angry for what they did, but to kill them!” He put his hands around Jim’s small face. “Son, I’m afraid you acted in haste.”

“I didn’t mention that when they started misusing your wand I searched their minds and found that they were Death Eaters disguised as Aurors. At the time of the massive Death Eater hunt, three known Death Eater’s seemed to disappear without a trace. It was always assumed that Voldemort was angry with them
for something and killed them.”

Sirius smiled and said, “You did well, Jim, and I’m glad we’re on the same side. Yes, I’d love to have my wand back. You know, all these years I’ve tried to figure out how to escape. I knew I could escape the Dementors, but I was afraid I wouldn’t make it across the water. I’m not afraid of dying, I was afraid of dying without avenging James and Lily, never seeing Harry, and letting him know I didn’t betray his parents.”

“Well, you might as well know that Harry didn’t know anything about you, until it was on the muggle news that you’d escaped.”

“Why was my escape on Muggle news?” Sirius asked in astonishment.

“Because of your murderous status. It was reported that when you killed Peter, you killed a number of muggles.”

“That street was deserted! I would never have endangered anyone else. It was those three Death Eaters who killed them after they took me away,” he reasoned. “I was an idiot to run after Wormtail the way I did without a plan,” Sirius said shaking his head.

“Don’t beat yourself up about it. Nobody could see what you did and not react. So, anyway, Harry found out last night that you escaped to take over Voldemort’s action and kill him,” Tom was saying, when Sirius jumped up and shouted,

“What idiot told him that?” He was livid and unable to stand still.

“It was Fudge,” said Jim “You need to stop going off the deep end when you hear disturbing news. All Fudge knew was that you’d been talking in your sleep of late saying, ‘He’s at Hogwarts,’ and the article with a picture of the Weasley’s on your bed. The article said the Weasley children, five of them, were all going to be at Hogwarts where the youngest son, Ron, was best friends with Harry Potter. They figure you want to Kill Harry, so he doesn’t ruin your chance at world dominance.”

“Seeing Peter is what made me say that. I needed to escape and kill Peter, Scabbers, before he killed Harry. That’s what gave me the strength to get through the storms and the water. It nearly killed me, but, I knew I needed to get to Harry and protect him.”

“I know Sirius, and soon, if all goes well, everyone else will. Are you ready to get your wand?”

“You bet!” said Sirius with a huge smile on his face. “A wand will make life more bearable for me, and I’ll need it to kill Wo— Scabbers.”

Jim Apparated the two of them to the remains of the Potter home and Jim took Sirius to the place he hid the wand. Sirius picked it up and rolled it between his finger and thumb. Yellow sparks emitted from the tip and a rush of air blew his hair. A grin worked its way onto his face. “Oh yeah, I’m back.”

“Sirius, I thought Harry would like to have these as well. They’re photo albums of Lily when she was little, to the time of their deaths. Their wedding pictures are here in this one.”

Sirius took the albums in his hands and nodded his head quietly. “Thank you for thinking ahead, Jim and doing this. It was very thoughtful of you to do this. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I‘ll enjoy looking through these; they’ll keep me from getting lonely.” He looked around the place and found everything as it was when he left it. “I was afraid the place would be…” he started but Jim interrupted.

“I put a powerful charm around the place to keep out unwanted people. Nobody but the charm bearer and owners of the house can get in here. I made a shrine of the place to keep James and Lily alive through the ages in memory and to remind everyone the destruction evil can do.”

They Apparated back to the Shrieking Shack, and Jim told Sirius he needed to get back to the castle. “I’ll send Dobby, a house elf who is very loyal to Harry, to tend to your needs. Also, we’ll work out some way for your Lissy to visit you, umm that is to say, after you regain some of your health back. Good night, Sirius.”

“Jim!” Sirius spoke quickly. “Do you think I might have something a bit less healthy for me to drink than milk the next time? Please?”

“It’ll be up to Dobby what he gets you. He’ll evaluate your condition and give to you accordingly. My advice is to drink plenty of water, so you can get re-hydrated. Then, when Dobby shows up tomorrow, you’ll have a better chance of getting what you want. Ask him how he knows Harry Potter.” Then Jim was gone.

Another fantastic chappie, Connie!
Hahahahaha, I loved this bit!
That was quite rude, Sirius.
Haha, I definitely would not want to be Sirius right now.
We forgot to take out a quotation.
Bahahahaha, I loved this. Sirius is hilarious!
Great chappie, Connie!!! PLEASE PAMS!!

Wow! I was really behind, wasn't I? Hmm. I loved all of it Mom. I think I'll read with a notepad and pen at hand so I can mention my fav lil quotes from the chapters and remember my questions. Well, you know what they say about hind-sight? I think my favorite part was the initial interplay between sirius and crookshanks. Poor Sirius. Hope Dobby sees fit to give him butterbeer next time.

Connie.

Two words... Loved it! As the chapters, and Thursdays, quickly fly by, I become more and more engrossed in your chapters. You out did yourself this week. The torment that Sirius was feeling, as the thought about his lady-love, Lissydove, was almost excruciating. It tore my heart out to imagine the crazy look in his eyes and yearning in his heart and voice.

The inspiration you brought to the death of all of those Muggles, when the gas line supposedly burst, was thought provoking. I was astonished to find that it was Death Eaters disguised, as Aurors, who were to blame for all of the carnage, and when the ministry covered it up... well! Who knew??? An excellent thought process! Ingenius!

I love the interaction and true friendship you've developed between Jim and Sirius. The ribbing, although sounding harsh, has been smoothed out and gentled by your quick sense of humour. Sirius is a true gentle giant.

I also appreciate the fact that you were able to include Dobby in the Sirius story-line. I can't wait to see Dobby tell Sirius: "Dobby is sorry sir... but Dobby is not giving Mr. Sirius, sir, his fire whiskey, because Sir is not able to drink fire whiskey without losing his temper with Dobby, sir!" Goooo Dobby!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Excellent chapter Connie. You've outdone yourself! You, my friend, are a great writer... and don't you forget it!

Katie

Emily Black: Hey Emily! thanks for your comments and for pointing out the quotation mark. I think it was a Goblin snuck in and put it in, cause I know it couldn't have escaped both of our notice.

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That was quite rude, Sirius.

Yes, he needs to work on his social graces doesn't he. I think he is just impatient to get back in the real world. He has been cut off for twelve years, and he's so close to getting a real life again.Thanks Emily for your hard work. Serious has to work on his social graces and I need to work on my impassive voice. Who new they could be such an annoyance.

Molly W.: Hey sweetheart.Hope you're doing ok tonight. Aches and pains from a car accident can't be fun.

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I think my favorite part was the initial interplay between sirius and crookshanks. Poor Sirius. Hope Dobby sees fit to give him butterbeer next time.

I love writing Sirius and Crookshanks. There is more to come of them. Dobby is a great caregiver isn't he. I like Katies idea of chocolate milk myself. But, he'd most likely climb out of the story and choke me till I promised to write him in something better to drink. rest up Stephie, and I'll see ya later. Love ya.

Miss Weasley: Hey Katie Girl!

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Two words... Loved it! As the chapters, and Thursdays, quickly fly by, I become more and more engrossed in your chapters. You out did yourself this week. The torment that Sirius was feeling, as the thought about his lady-love, Lissydove, was almost excruciating. It tore my heart out to imagine the crazy look in his eyes and yearning in his heart and voice.

Thank you so much sweetie! There are certain things that I hope I can do in my writing. And one thing is to make the reader feel what the characters are going through.

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and when the ministry covered it up... well! Who knew???

I think it was mostly for the Muggles that there was a cover up. They couldn't let it be known that wizards were to blame. And they had to make the ones who survived the carnage oblivious to what they seen.

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I can't wait to see Dobby tell Sirius: "Dobby is sorry sir... but Dobby is not giving Mr. Sirius, sir, his fire whiskey, because Sir is not able to drink fire whiskey without losing his temper with Dobby, sir!" Goooo Dobby!!!!!!!!!!!!!

yeah, I'm just glad it's Dobby and not me!

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Excellent chapter Connie. You've outdone yourself! You, my friend, are a great writer... and don't you forget it!

Thank you sweetheart. I'm humbled by your praise. I'll try to be worthy of it.

To all my readers: Thank you each one for reading. All though I don't have many people comment I am very blessed to have such great and loyal readers. Thank you everyone!
Next weeks chapter 29, "Crookshanks on the Go" will be up about the same time hopefully Thursday evening.

CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

Crookshanks Set Free?


Late one very cold, wet, and blustery evening, Harry and his teammates came trudging into the common room. Harry, whom appeared to be nearly frozen, went directly to the fire and stood in front of it warming his hands. Then he sat on the hearth looking at his friends. He smiled and said happily that it looks like the team has a good chance to win the championship this year. Crookshanks caught a spider and jumped up on Hermione’s lap. She started petting him, while at the same time flipped her wand and said something that nobody heard, and Harry and his clothes were dry.

“Thanks!” said Harry with an appreciative smile. “I need to learn that one, as it seems we’re always practicing in the rain.” He looked at the windows and listened to the wind howling while sheets of rain pelted the window.

“Does he have to eat that right in front of us?” asked Ron, eyeing Crookshanks in disgust.

Hermione cooed over her pet as she stroked his fur and glared at Ron, telling Crookshanks what a clever cat he was.

“You need to keep that thing on a leash or in your room. You give him way too much free reign all the time! Poor Scabbers has to be shut up in the dorm most of the time in fear of his life. It’s not fair, him not being well and all!”

Crookshanks had originally planned on dropping the spider in Ron’s pocket to scare him and hopefully cause Scabbers to make a run for it. He wasn’t going to kill the rat, just keep him scared all the time so he’d eventually make a mistake and Crookshanks would catch him and take him to Sirius. They had been planning and decided to step up the scare tactics so he’d be easier to capture.

Crookshanks looked at Ron and ate the spider.
“That’s disgusting!” Ron said with distain, holding his stomach and clapping his hand over his mouth. Scabbers started squealing in Ron’s pocket.

Crookshanks jumped at Ron’s pocket and out flew Scabbers. He ran with Crookshanks after him batting his hind quarters back and forth. This was so much fun for Crookshanks, who was just about to let him get away, when Ron shouted, “Catch that cat!” and tore after Crookshanks. He caught hold of him while Crookshanks got away, but not before Ron kicked him. He started running again to get away from Ron. He needed to stop this game of cat and mouse before anyone got hurt.

“Ron, don’t hurt Crookshanks!” Hermione screamed pithily.

Ron caught Crookshanks and bodily threw him to Hermione. “Lock up that monster before I kill it!” he yelled hatefully as he caught Scabbers and looked him over.

Hermione hugged Crookshanks to her tightly and ran to the girls’ dormitory. She raced to her bed and dropped onto it. “Crookshanks,” she moaned in sobs, “Why do you go after Scabbers? I know it’s natural for cats to go after rats, but you know Scabbers is a pet.” She examined him closely as tears welled in her eyes.

“Are you alright, Hermione?” Ginny asked softly as she sat at the bottom of the bed.

“Yes, I’m okay. Crookshanks doesn’t seem to be hurt, which is a good thing for Ron. He was awfully rough with him. He could have hurt him badly, just because of that stupid rat of his! I don’t know why he even likes it. It’s so ugly and lazy. All it ever does is sit in his pocket cowering. Even before I got Crookshanks it was just a useless, cowering, and ugly, fat rat.”

“Well, I don’t know if he actually does like it. He takes care of it because it’s his. If he were given a choice of keeping it, or getting a new pet of his choosing, he wouldn’t think twice about giving up Scabbers. Ron never gets anything new, it’s always hand-me-downs. If something happened to Scabbers he knows he wouldn’t have anything.”

The girls stopped talking as a first year walked over to them. “Excuse me, my name is Tina, and I just wanted to see if your cat was okay. I hope you know that he was just playing with that awful rat. I used to have a cat, and I could tell he was just playing. I just love your cat.” She pet Crookshanks and smiled at Hermione.

“Thank you Tina, that’s very sweet of you. Crookshanks is fine. Thank you for asking about him.”

The girls watched as Tina left, and Hermione said, “That was sweet of her.”

“Yeah, I’ve noticed her petting Crookshanks a lot,” said Ginny “She really misses her cat.” The girls turned their attention back to Crookshanks. They both started to speak at the same time. “Go ahead Hermione. What were you going to say?”

“Well, not to pry, but I’ve always wondered why you don’t have a pet? I mean it’s nothing out of the ordinary, this is the first year I have a pet.”

“I just didn’t want to be the cause of an extra expense for Mum and Dad.
Ron feels bad for getting hand-me-downs, but, I wonder how he’d feel if by the time it came to him there wasn’t anything to hand down. I don’t mind though, I’ll probably get one in a couple years. I know that my parents would try to get me one if they thought I really wanted one.” She smiled looking at Crookshanks, “and besides, I can always depend on Crookshanks to share himself with me when I need an extra friend.”

“Of course you can. He’s very comforting to have around. What were you going to say?” Hermione said kindly.

“Oh, I think I already know the answer to this, but, since Ron was so brutal to Crookshanks,”

Hermione cut in with a small smile, “Do I still like Ron?”

“Like? Be serious Hermione.” Ginny giggled, “I was going to ask if you’re still madly in love with him.”

Hermione blushed, “Well, I can’t stay mad at Ron for how he feels about his stupid rat, and I can’t fault him for being angry with Crookshanks. However, he better not ever lay a hand on Crookshanks in anger again. Did you see that when he was so red in the face, how brilliantly blue his eyes looked, and how his hair looked like real flames of fire? He is just so gorgeous!”

“Gorgeous is what I saw standing in front of the fire all dripping wet, muddy, and nearly frozen, trying to warm himself. Didn’t he make you want to wrap him up in a blanket and snuggle him all warm? If only I knew transfiguration! I could transfigure into the blanket that was wrapped around him and,”

“Ginny! Stop it now,” Hermione said laughing, and trying to sound motherly.

“Oh Hermione, don’t you dare hush me! What were you thinking of just now talking about Ron and his brilliant blue eyes, and flaming red hair!” Both girls giggled till tears streamed out the corners of their eyes.

“Oh I know, I just can’t get over how bold and blunt you are,” admitted Hermione.

“Not around Harry though. I just freeze up. I wish I could at least tell him how good he is at Quidditch.”

“You just need to relax and free up your emotions. You’re so wrapped up emotionally that it keeps you from just being a friend.”

“I guess you’re right. I wish I could say something to him to help him relax about the way the professors all treat him. He can’t go out, only to classes and practice. He’s not going to be allowed to go to Hogsmeade either. It’s not fair that he has to be all cooped up.”

“I know,” said Hermione. She looked at Crookshanks, who was reveling with all the attention the girls were giving him and purring loudly. “I feel so badly about Crookshanks having had to be cooped up in that tiny cage all that time, and now Ron wants me to keep him locked up. I don’t blame him for chasing that stupid rat. It’s like Tina said, he was just playing. If Crookshanks wanted to catch it, he would have had it before it hit the floor, jumping from Ron’s pocket.”

Crookshanks wished he could tell Hermione not to feel badly about being caged. He remembered the nights after the shop was closed and everyone was gone. He got out of his cage and visited with the other guests there. He was quite happy there. Her name was Moondrop, and she was quite beautiful. Crookshanks realized just then how much he missed her. He was thinking of how he let her loose every night and the two of them… “What is Hermione saying?” He became very alert and listened.

“It’s not fair that he has to be cooped up. I’m wondering if I should give him his freedom in Hogsmeade. I know he can take care of himself. He doesn’t have any friends, and Ron won’t have to be worried about his stupid rat.” She picked him up and cuddled him to her. “I just love him so much, and I want him to be happy.”

“No,” said Ginny “Hermione look at him. He’s perfectly content living with you. And there are lots of cats here in Hogwarts.”

“I guess I didn’t think of that,” said Hermione. “But what about Scabbers? I can’t take a chance on him going after that rat.”

“I think it’s sweet you want to make sure Ron’s precious rat is safe.” They both laughed, “But don’t worry about it.” And a friend of mine has a cat. She’s in Ravenclaw. Luna said she has a cat this term. You know how you said you could have sworn Crookshanks told you to buy him?”

“Yes?” she answered, curious as to what Ginny was about to tell her.

“Well Luna said she and her Daddy went to the menagerie to get her an owl, and when her daddy came out with one, a pair of birds told her in so many words not to. So, she got a cat instead. And she feels especially lucky because her cat is going to have kittens. She sounds really pretty. She’s pure white and her fur is really soft and fluffy. Her name is “Moondrop.”

Crookshanks was ecstatic with this bit of information! “Moondrop is here!” he thought. “I’ll have to visit Ravenclaw House and find her. And kittens!” He was so happy. “A good chance of more werecats, which is just what this world needs.”

“Oh how sweet! Kittens! We’ll have to visit them after they’re born. Maybe your friend wouldn’t mind giving one to Tina,” Hermione suggested.

Haha, that would have been my response too. I can't stand spiders. And I really do run from the room or put my feet up whenever they come near me. I even go as far to call my mom to come kill them... haha
This part was hilarious to me. And extremely cute with their girlishy sides
OMG! I LOVE kittens! They are the cutest little things ever!
Great post, Connie! PLEASE PAMS!!

Okay Connie, Sweetie....

Let's get the frivolities out of the way and get right down to business... That is another great chapter!!!! The way you come up with these ideas is simply intriguing to me... we definitely must talk...

Now, down to business...

I can not believe the mind-games you have Crookshanks playing on poor Ron, and ultimately, Scabbers. Mind you, Scabbers definitely has it coming. I can just hear the sound of those spider's legs crunching; it still gives me the shivers!

Hmm... I found this so out of character for Ron. I guess everyone finally has a breaking point though. I bet he would've been totally shattered if he had hurt Crookshanks by mistake. In saying this, I also think that Ron was never actually going to go over-the-top with his anger. He just wanted to really stress his point with Hermione.

My hat goes off to Ginny in this instant of maturity. She knows how Ron feels about hand-me-downs, but rather than complain for herself, she worries about her parent's feelings and simply refrains from asking for new stuff. This is really something for a 12-year-old, I think. Her goal is simply one of happiness.

I really enjoyed this little tidbit of conversation. It is amazing how we girls tend to never bore of talking about our "beaus". The love, gossip and giggles that Ginny and Hermione constantly share, in terms of Harry and Ron, is hilarious and true to the conversations of young women.

I'm glad you have finally brought a little happiness into Tom/Jim/Crookshank's life. It brings a whole new dimension to his character. The idea that he could be a Daddy is heart-lifting... and by the way... if Tina doesn't take the soon-to-be offered kitten... I will gladly take one or two of them. All I need now are a couple of good names...

All kidding aside, Connie, this was a truly inspirational chapter. I can't wait until the next one. See you next week...

Katie

wow Crookshank is awesome the spider part was my fav and -) and i wish i could have one of those kittens lol but i have Saphira lol cant wait for more sorry i got behind

So, confirmed to me that I'm glad I don't know what girls say about me behind my back..
Is all diabolical and stuff haha

I've now got an image of crookshanks delivering a live rat to sirius in the same way a normal cat will deliver a freshly killed bird to it's owner during dinner.

Wonderful, hilarious chapter! XD

Emily Black: Hey Emily.

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I LOVE kittens! They are the cutest little things ever!

Yes, I agree, till they get big. Then, I have a problem with a lot of them. I wouldn't mind having Crookshanks though!

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Great post, Connie! PLEASE PAMS!!

Thanks Emily.

Miss Weasley: Hello Katie!

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Let's get the frivolities out of the way and get right down to business... That is another great chapter!!!! The way you come up with these ideas is simply intriguing to me... we definitely must talk...

Hehehe Thank you, and it's always great talking to you. I look forward to it.

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Hmm... I found this so out of character for Ron. I guess everyone finally has a breaking point though. I bet he would've been totally shattered if he had hurt Crookshanks by mistake. In saying this, I also think that Ron was never actually going to go over-the-top with his anger. He just wanted to really stress his point with Hermione.

I think maybe most times when people are highly stressed about something, then things said and done are not actually meant. The thing is, it is a seed that is planted in the heart, and if it isn't meant one time, it surely might the next time or two if things continue. I decided to let the readers decide about this for themselves. I myself think Ron was at the boiling point, and seeing how Crookshanks mentioned his thought that the game needed to stop, then I've a mind that he was worried maybe Ron was at that point.

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All kidding aside, Connie, this was a truly inspirational chapter. I can't wait until the next one. See you next week...

Thank you sweetie.

Tina6080: Hey sweetheart, how are you doing? Are you about to have a wonderful summer vacation? Hehehe, The spider part gave me the heebie sheebies! Your Saphira is a cutie, but no... oops, I musn't say anymore. It's ok you got behind. Glad you got caught back up though. The story is about to take a wild ride.

Derfel: Hi there Owen! You just made it under the wire. I was pasting my story on and seen you was here! And I'm so glad because it was a wonderful comment. Ah... In your case just like Ron and Harry, I'm sure there is much giggles and talk about all good things. You can always tell though if when they see you do they have a smile on there face, or an evil glare" All smiles I'm sure. Yes, it is the plan. We can only hope.
I'm glad you got a good laugh from the chapter, and thought it was wonderful.

Speaking of wonderful: Check out Owens FF! The Ballad of Gryffindor's Sword (Sa16+) in the mature vault, by Derfel. The Battle of Gryffindor's Sword Sa16+
This is a tremendous story. If you haven't read any of it yet, get started now. Take along some cookies and milk to keep you alert, cause you'll want to keep your mind on it the whole time. I love it.

To all my wonderful readers: Thanks for reading and being loyal to my story. A while back, I mentioned that I might have to move my FF to the mature vault. I sent the only scene in question to our thread monitor, and was told it would not have to be moved. I'm so glad. And be assured I haven't written anything immoral or disgusting, but a scene that was vital to the story line. Thank you AmbiguouslyMe, for your help in this matter.

Next weeks chapter, Chapter 30, "Sirius,and a Fully Transformed Crookshanks" will be posted hopfully Thursday evening. Enjoy tonights post in the meantime.




CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE
Crookshanks on the Go


Crookshanks stretched then curled himself in a ball in-between the two girls petting him. He needed to nap, because he was going to have a big night finding Moondrop, then calling on Sirius, would make it even longer. Hermione and Ginny continued to talk softly, and the longer time went by the more frequent were the fits of giggling they fell into. Finally, at one thirty in the morning, Ginny very wearily said she needed to get to bed. She stooped over and kissed Crookshanks and said, “Good-night Crookshanks, Hermione.”

“Night Ginny”

Hermione lay down, and as she pulled the covers over her shoulders, Crookshanks took his favorite spot on the pillow above Hermione’s head with his head snuggled against her head. His soft rhythmic purring always relaxed Hermione, as it did with Lily and even Harry, and she fell into a restful slumber.

It was two o’clock when he decided that it was safe to do some roaming. He looked back in his memory to the day he asked a young girl for some parchment, quill, and ink. He remembered her scent and swiftly put his nose in the air and eventually found the lilac scent he remembered of her. It didn’t take long until he was standing before the bronze Eagle shaped knocker. He turned into Jimmy so he could reach it and knocked, then immediately turned back into Crookshanks in case he was caught. A cat wouldn’t be in trouble for being out after hours.

A very soft whimsical voice sang out, “What is always before you, never behind you, and only a breath away, yet you never touch it?”

“My future. Today is yesterday’s tomorrow. Moreover, each breath taken brings the future untouched to the present.”

“Well reasoned,” sang the voice and the door opened of its own accord. Crookshanks stepped into the common room and reached out with his mind.

“You brighten my darkness with your luminous soul. Please, Moondrop, my love, come to me in the common room.”

Within seconds, Moondrop appeared and ran to him, and there was much face rubbing and nose touching.

A very sweet and short heartfelt reunion, then Crookshanks conveyed to her, “I just tonight found out you are here. How are our little ones doing? Yes! We have a werecat in there, and five other sweet little girls. Listen, Love, this is very important. And I’m sorry I’m rushing this on you, instead of slowly so you can take it all in, but, I must leave in a few minutes. But I’ll be back tomorrow!” he added quickly. “When you feel the time is at hand, go to the kitchen and have a house elf named Dobby help you deliver our son. He will come first, then you‘ll deliver the girls. After you clean and feed our little ones, then you’ll rest. Dobby will take you and the girls to Luna saying he found you with your babies.”

“But, what of our son?” she asked fearfully.

“He must, for his own safety, stay with Dobby. It’s the only safe place for him. Werecats are extremely rare and even thought to be extinct. If he is found out, he will be taken to the Ministry of Magic and disposed of.” Moondrop had a sharp intake of breath and meowed softly.

“But how would anyone know he’s a werecat?” she asked with a pleading thought.

“He is all black like my father was, and will be quite a bit larger than the girls, whom are all white like you. He’ll also grow at an abnormally rapid rate. And I’m sorry about this, but, he can’t suckle from you, but for the first time, because he’ll drain your supply, and not leave enough for our precious girls. I’ll come down every day and teach him what he is and how to be a good werecat. When he knows what he needs to know, I’ll take him to a girl named Tina, in Gryffindor House. I know I can trust her not to tell anyone, and she’ll love him, as I was by my Lily.”

“It saddens my heart that we can’t all be together as a family, but it’s the way it is with the life of Werecats. I love you dearly, and I have been faithful to you, and will continue to be until my death. I must leave you for the moment and tend to something urgent. I’ll be back tomorrow, and we’ll catch up on everything. Is there a place we can meet? I’m sure I can come up with witty responses for the door, but it is too risky for me to chance being discovered.”

“Yes.” She told him of a secure place they could meet and spend time with each other.

“And,” she said, “If you ever need to come here, then come to the door, then, without knocking, speak to the door with your mind and tell it that you are a fellow creature, born to be free, and does not need to depend on wit to get along in the world of the humans. The door will acknowledge you and allow you to enter.”

“Oh, that’s marvelous. Now, one more thing, tell me Love, when do you get your best rest?”

Moondrop looked at him with tired eyes and said, “I haven’t rested well ever since you were purchased. I know this is the way for owned creatures. We are to be happy and content with our masters, and do without companionship of our own kind, unless we’re to breed for our masters. But, I love you so dearly, and though I didn’t have you, I would still have our babies. Then, I became depressed to realize that it is the way of the humans to sell off our babies when they become old enough to be away from their mothers. My babies will be taken away from me, and there is nothing I can do about it.”

Crookshanks was deeply moved by the words spoken from his soul mate. “Love, this I know is your first litter, and so you aren’t looking at things clearly because you want to keep your babies. When you were a kitten, did your mother try to keep you with her?”

“No, I guess not, and she didn’t even try to stop me at all from leaving,” she answered.

“Do you remember ever talking about it with her?” he asked softly.

“No, I just left one day and didn’t go back,” she said after thinking for a bit. I don’t even remember why either.”

“Then, you see, you did exactly as you were meant to do. You became of age to go out and procreate. It is the nature in animals to do this to make sure the species survive. You have been unhappy because you thought that you would never see me again, so, you naturally wanted to keep your babies. You must let them grow up the way they are meant to. But, I will be here for you as long as our masters keep coming to Hogwarts. Please don’t dwell on this anymore so you can have rest and enjoy your pregnancy. You need to be rested so you can deliver our little ones. Your first one will be a doozie, but the rest will be a piece of tuna.” Crookshanks rubbed his head over her face and neck and touched her nose, all the while purring loudly. “I must go now, Love. I’ll be back tomorrow, you must rest.”

Crookshanks was on his way down to meet Sirius, but stopped in to see Dobby. Although he was loyal to his cause, family matters take precedence. He must take care of a few things in case something ever happened to him. He explained what was going on with the new family he just found out he had, and asked Dobby to help him when the time came for Moondrop to deliver her babies.

“Dobby is being most happy to do everything Master Werecat wants, and is being most honored to keep care of the young Master Werecat.”

“Thank you Dobby. Please take care not to call me or my son, master werecat, as this will be very dangerous for us if anyone hears. You can however, call me a friend and my son, you can call, Tom. I’m on my way down to see Sirius. Is there any message you want me to give him.”

“Yes, Master Sirius is regaining his vigor back in a steady manner, and Dobby has arranged for his Mistress Lissydove to meet him in the safety of the edges in the Forbidden Forest, being near Hagrid’s hut. Hagrid is being in Hogsmeade that day and won’t be in condition to be suspicious of any voices that he might be hearing. Mistress Lissydove is most anxious to be seeing her Sirius. Dobby is Apparating her there and is staying with her to protect her and take her back to her quarters when their visit is over. Dobby is averting his eyes and ears away from them to give them privacy,” Dobby finished with a shy blush on his downward cast face. “Friend is escorting Sirius from, and back to, the tree of thrashing branches to keep Sirius from doing anything unwise. Sirius is wanting very much to see Master Harry Potter.”

“Dobby, you have done very well. Please continue to keep charge of Sirius’s well being. And thank you again for everything you do. This plan would not work if you weren’t helping.”

“Dobby is just being happy to help Friend, and is not needing thanks,” said Dobby and then bowed to the floor. Crookshanks smiled and decided to work on the bowing thing later, then said goodnight.

Hiya, Connie!
Haha, I'm the exact same way. Me and my friend had a discussion about it not too long ago. She thinks cats are still cute when they grow up, I believe otherwise... Kitties are cute, but Cats are ugly and not adorable.
Awe, this was precious.
Darn those "was"s, we forgot one. Just so you know
Awe, I can't wait to see their reunion! I know it's precious!

Great post, Connie! PLEASE PAMS!!

Connie,

Great work as always! I'm thinking that I need a little of your dedication and get-up-and-go! I love what you did with the chapter. It was truly inspirational to allow Crookshanks and Moondrop to appear so human-like... I think I'll leave the rest for a little later in the post!

Now this... was a true bit of inspiration and the perfect entrance question...

Now, I must finish my comment... The fact that you openly discuss the idea that a pet, or any animal for that matter, most surely has feeling and a conscience is a stroke of pure genius. It is sad how some animals are treated today, as possessions, rather than living things. The fact that you have brought them to life and given them thoughts and feelings, adds great dimension to your story and allows people to wonder of its truths. Great job!

Connie! Are they finally going to get to meet? Like two star-crossed lovers in the night... seperated only by their different destinies, but ultimately meant to be together... sigh... I can't wait... *sniff.. sniff...* *wipes a way a tear of joy and hope...*

Okay so... next week, right... I'll be here... you'll be here... you bring the beverages... and I'll bring the snacks? Can't wait Connie! Exceptional chapter, as always!

Katie

New reader!!!!!OMG!!!!!!!! I only just discovered your story because usually I stay in the HSV but Omg!!!!! AMAZING MUCH??????? I love the idea with the werecats and I love the way you write!!!!! It's so great, I'll keep an eye out for more!!!! PAMS!!!!!!!!!!!!
*Kate*

I'm all caught up!!! Yay! Great posts Connie!!!

So, first off, wouldn't it be hilarious if Harry was super buff under Dudley's huge clothing? That shirtless scene was priceless!

Not to mention the reappearance of Lissydove!!!! TOO CUTE!

And Hermione and Ginny's conversations are so cute! Although I'm not sure Hermione would know enough about Avada Kedavra until fake Moody's demo to guess it was Lily's death. But that's just me

Crookshanks/Moondrop is soo soo cute! Hehe...I wonder, can young werekittens control their power? As in, couldn't Tom Jr. suddenly transform into werecat mode at random times? Still too cute <3

Keep it coming, Connie!

awsome chapter, i feel special i get the werecat! lol i cant wait for more im glad Crookshank found Moondrop its so sweet

woah...finished reading the posts atlast...caught up with them...was wrapped up with my practicals and exams...they got over yesterday and i am free so i will keep an eye for your updates...really liked your posts...pams when you can....