The Yankees Are Coming

Title- 1: The Yankees Are Coming!
Author- Ima Pseudonym
Pairing- Sparrington. There are also mentions of non-Sparrington slash, and het. (The het isn't dwelt on at all.)
Rating- PG13, right now for a bit of foul-ish language, and some vaguely soppy romantic bits. But I'm sure it will jump to NC17 soon enough.
Warning- Uh… I’ve probably desecrated both PotC and HP.. in one go. That takes talent.
Disclaimer: The fantabulous world of Hogwarts belongs to Rowling. PotC belongs to Disney. But mixing them, horrendously together.. is all mine. And a few other authors who I won’t mention, because I don’t know who they are (and I've never seen, or heard of their stories, let alone read them).. but they’re out there.. Also, Salem School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is my idea.. but, also, I’m sure.. not mine, alone.

If you can make it through the errors.. enjoy!

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Chapter 1

The great hall was buzzing with excitement. “From where?” “They haven’t done that in about…” “At least 20 years since…” “Someone from America…” “A yank, if you can believe…” James Norrington, Gryffindor 7th year, took his usual seat, to be joined a moment later by his closest friends, Mathieu Gillette (a sometimes surly red head, with a sharp wit and a sharper tongue) and Theodore Groves (who often went by "Teddy", and was a bit self-conciously on the short side.. making up for his stature in outlandish actions and words).

“What’s all this about, then?” James asked, as he contemplated the breakfast spread before him.

“Exchange student program.” Teddy grinned, and elaborated, when the other dropped his butter knife in surprise.

“Dumbledore announced it a while ago. Tomorrow afternoon, some Yank from Salem School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is going to show up here.”

“How long will he be staying?” James said, his composure regained, and his silverware retrieved.

“That’s if it’s a he.” Mathieu interjected, though he rather suspected it would be. Scarlet Lewis and Giselle Peters had been insisting upon it since Trelawney pulled that guess out of her arse. He supposed there was a fifty percent chance she was right. Not that it would concern her much to be wrong. She often was. “And it’s really up to the student anyway. Whoever it is'll be here a few days before they're sorted into one of the houses, then he.. or she could be with us the rest of the year.”

“Great, that’s all we need. A rebellious Yank ruining Gryffindor’s chances for the house cup. And another thing-“ James trailed off, tellingly, as Elizabeth Swann entered the hall. As usual, she commanded the attention of the room. Strategically, she flipped her hair back, simultaneously showing off her long neck, and the shiny Head Girl badge. He exchanged smiles with her, as way of greeting. This year, James was determined to ask her out… Well, especially this year, as there wouldn’t be much opportunity afterwards.

As Elizabeth took her seat at the Ravenclaw table, Teddy regained James’s attention. It took a moment..

“When’s to be our first Quidditch practice?”

“I don’t know.. Sometime this week, I suppose. Probably Saturday.. We’ve got to hold try-outs, as we need a new seeker… Shame Charlie Weasley couldn’t fail a few times, and repeat. We could use him.. Best seeker Gryffindor ever had…” Teddy smirked, clapping Mathieu on the shoulder. “We’ve got a seeker, right here in, Mat.” Mathieu just glared and brushed Teddy’s hand off. “Watch it, Theodore, or James is gonna be short a chaser as well as a seeker.” James laughed, at that. “Oh no you don’t. There’s not enough talent to replace two members.” “Besides,” Mathieu continued placidly, “I despised sports at Beauxbaton, and I despise them here…. Playing them, at least.” He amended to his friends’ wounded looks.

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The arrival of the American student was all anyone could deign to talk about the rest of the day, until the Quidditch try-out notice granted James some reprieve. Around the bulletin board, a group of eagerly chatting students, 2nd year and up, were reading about the seeker position, boasting how they would single handedly win every game for Gryffindor. Honestly, he didn’t think they would find anyone decent to fill the position.

Before long, though, the talk reverted back to the American. James groaned in frustration as he sank into one of the common room armchairs. To his right, Teddy and Mathieu were engaged in a game of chess. “This is horrible. It’s only the first month of school, and I’m already sick of the gossip! Even the guys are doing it!” “It is a hot topic..” Teddy mused, nonchalantly, while taking out one of Mathieu’s pawns. Mathieu frowned. “Besides.. You remember the controversy when I switched schools? It was all anyone talked about for a week. There were 1st years mocking me. Asking if I could speak English.. It was dreadful. Checkmate.”

Teddy glared at the board, and moved his chair back. “I was one of them. But I was teasing you, and you know it.” “I do now..” Mathieu stated reluctantly.

“Wait.. If it’s an exchange program, who does Salem get?” James asked as the thought occurred to him. “No one from here. But a Slytherin boy’s going to Durmstrang.” “So who’s going to Salem?” “Probably someone from one of the other schools…” “Odd way of going about it.” Mathieu finished putting away the chess pieces. “Maybe they draw straws or something…” Just at that moment, the Weasley twins, already instant favorites their first year, began singing a bawdy parody of the Star Spangled Banner. No doubt practicing for the new student's arrival. McGonagoll would love that.

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The next day, all of the teachers seemed horribly exasperated. The students couldn’t pay attention, and finally Professor McGonagoll simply took the clock off of the wall with a flick of her wand. “Now honestly. This is quite an important topic. Five points from Gryffindor, and try to keep your attention on the front of the class…” Potions was even worse.

Professor Snape spent approximately seven minutes trying to explain the effects of certain potions and the laws regarding said illegal substances, before snapping at the level of inattentiveness. The new student would be arriving after lunch, and it was only 2 hours until then. You will all begin immediately on an essay regarding one of the potions I just mentioned. It’s to be finished by the end of the class, and should be at least a roll of parchment long, if you expect a ‘passing grade.’ I will be in my office if you have any constructive questions or comments.”

There was a general outraged commotion after Snape left, but the students grudgingly dug through their packs for pen and parchment. “What were the potions again, James?” Groves whispered, thumbing through the pages of their hefty textbook. “Honestly, Teddy. Don’t you 'ever' pay attention?” Gillette hissed, handing him a neat list of the potions. James smiled as he watched the other carefully choose the least complex looking one. He himself, chose the love potion, which was nearly everyone’s first choice until they saw the lengthy chapter on it in the book. “I can’t help it if you and James are unaffected by all the suspense.” “Suspense?” James muttered. “It’s just a student.. One student. It’s not like there aren’t other Americans here.” “True, but we’ve never had a student who went to Salem, here before. Salem School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is like what Hogwarts is to Europe.” “Big deal..” James rolled his eyes, and went back to his essay.

Two excruciatingly long hours later, the students hurried to the great hall, where they swallowed their meals without seeing what they were eating. All eyes were on Dumbledore, who appeared quite amused at the undisguised interest of the students. Finally, he announced (through what may have been premonition) that the student was here, and would everyone kindly line up in the hallway to welcome the guest.

The house prefects and teachers lined the students up by year, and began singling out some to put their hair back, or straighten their ties. Dumbledore stood at the front of the entrance hall. “Now.. I’m sure you would all like to know a bit about the newest addition to our school…” the old wizard began, and the room fell deathly quiet. “’His’ name..” he started, and the girls began chattering. Dumbledore waited patiently until the boys scowled them to silence. “is Jack Sparrow. He will be joining the 7th years, in whichever house he is sorted. For now, he’ll meander about, stopping in on a few of the classes to view each house in its' studies, so I expect a fine example to be set. I also expect nothing but the best of you all, no matter the house he'll join. On Friday night, a special sorting ceremony and feast will take place.” There was a general murmuring of approval from the student body, which quickly faded to expectant silence, all eyes turning to the doors.

Every breath was held in anticipation, but Dumbledore continued in a more solemn fashion, and it was obvious that all the collective impatience in the world would not rush him. “This exchange program, meant to be practiced every five years as a basis for better relationships with our fellow schools has been out of practice for quite some time now, pending certain.. unfortunate incidents in the world.” Everyone knew he referred to Lord Voldemort’s rise to power. But.. that was ancient history now, right? At any rate it served as incentive for good behavior amongst the houses. “It is our hope that with more peaceful times upon us, the tradition will continue again as it has for so long... So.. Without further ado…” With a wave of his wand, the huge double doors opened, letting in a flood of sunlight.

The hall was silent as the young man stepped over the threshold, glancing about with a confident sort of curiosity. Dumbledore approached him and said something only the Yank could hear. He smiled and shook hands with the wizened old wizard. The silence was nearly unbearably resounding as everyone tried to drink in every detail of this boy. Even James found himself, mesmerized. He was very handsome, of a slight build.. Not short exactly, but certainly not tall. His hair was dramatically black, even against his tanned skin. He wore typical street clothes. Some fashionably torn jeans, and a black shirt with the anarchy symbol on it. He also had a curious necklace of ill-assorted beads and trinkets.

When the silence was nearly humming, he ventured to speak. “…Hey...” It echoed throughout the hall, and the silence hovered another second, before everyone began speaking at once. Those nearest bombarded him, shaking his hand, and informing them of their names and their houses. (“the best, really…” “Trust me, you want…” “Hang with my group. We’re in…”) The ones who couldn’t hope to get near him, bowed their heads and began gossiping like crazy. (“Oh my.. he is good looking.” “Do you think he has a girlfriend in America?..” “I wonder if he’s interested..” “I’d like a go at him..”) The more lewd comments had them grinning. It had started innocently enough, with Teddy sniggering, and soon James followed suit. When they both started laughing in earnest, Mathieu couldn’t long resist, and they were all leaning heavily against each other in hysterics.

“Mr. Norrington. Groves, Gillette! I expected better of you. You’ll insult our guest!” But they couldn’t stop laughing. If anything it got worse. Teddy began wheezing, trying to force air into his lungs. James clutched his stomach, laughing at how red Mathieu’s face had gotten, both from laughing and embarrassment. Meanwhile they’d gained the attention of many of the students, including Jack. A tear rolled down James’s cheek, as he gasped for breath. “So sorry-“ he sank to the stone floor, clutching his stomach. “Professor-“ “Not laughing at him..” Teddy added, his continued laughter not helping James’s resolve. Only Mathieu seemed to regain his stamina, in time to help them avoid detention. “It’s just, we’ve overheard some rather funny remarks.” McGonagoll bristled. “I suggest in the future you three learn to keep your ears to yourselv- oh honestly, will you desist!” James stopped struggling for air, and waited for Teddy to quiet in his giggling. McGonagoll walked off, angrily, to stem the laughter of a group of 2nd years who’d caught the infliction.

A few Hufflepuff 6th years shot the three dirty looks, and went back to their mindless banter. “Come on then..” Teddy said, wiping his streaming eyes. They stood and walked past the throng of overly eager students. “Gods I hate Divination..” Teddy stated as they passed, on their way to Trelawney’s classroom. Jack watched them go, an amused expression on his face. “Very well.. I’m sure there’ll be plenty of time for introductions later. For now, to your classes.” The group, reluctantly, dispelled, leaving Dumbledore alone with Jack. “I assume you’ve read over the offered classes?” “Yes sir.” “And where would you like to begin?” “I was thinking… Divination, perhaps?…”

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Teddy sat with his head propped on his palm struggling to keep awake. Gillette, across from him, stared at his hand with a worried expression. James sat at the table by theirs. He’d been the odd one out, and Trelawny hadn’t been overly fond of the idea of letting the infamous three work together. “What do you think it means, Teddy?” Mat asked, holding his appendage out in front of the dazed student. “Looks a bit like you could use some lotion. Your skin’s awfully dry.” James and Teddy snorted, but Mathieu frowned. The book says this line is my lifeline.. or is that something else…” Mathieu began turning the book, trying to find the closest likeness to his hand. The subject in this class for the first few months was to review everything else they’d learned in it over the years. For Mathieu, that was very little, considering this was his first time in Divination. He’d been allowed to take the advanced so he wouldn’t have to sit with the younger students. But James rather suspected there wasn’t much more to learn, which is why so much time was being devoted to what was already taught.

A quarter-hour into the class, a soft tap was heard. Everyone turned to see the American student standing there, waiting to be addressed by the teacher. An excited murmer arose. (“He chose our class first..” “Wait till I tell…” “Budge up, and make room for him to sit here…”) James rolled his eyes yet again. “For god’s sake. He’s just a normal kid..” Teddy had already nodded off, and Mathieu didn’t bother looking up from his book.

“Miss Trelawney?” he asked timidly, and the woman turned around, shocked. “Oh. You must be the American boy.. So sorry I didn’t greet you downstairs, but I find the hustle and bustle down there clouds my inner eye. What can I do for you, dear?” Jack smiled, charmingly. “I’d like to join your class for today.. and maybe the rest of the year… But of course, you already knew that.” The classroom sniggered, and she cast an evil glance around. “Yes, of course I did dear. But one who knows all doesn’t go about boasting.. I’ve found that it disturbs the ungifted.” Jack eyebrow arched just slightly. “Of course. Where do I sit?” “Um..” Trelawney glanced around and spotted James sitting by himself. “With Mr. Norrington, over yonder.” She said, mistily. “Today, we’re reviewing palmistry. I’m sure he can help you with that.” She went to examine the work of students on the other side of the room.

Jack walked over and smiled down at James, extending a hand. “Hi. I’m Jack Sparrow.” He hesitated for a moment before shaking the other’s hand. “James Norrington.” Jack continued staring. “What?” the Brit snapped irritably. “Oh. Sorry..” Jack said, sitting down opposite him. “It’s just everyone’s been telling me their house after their names.” “Is that so…” James muttered staring pointedly at his palm, as though in concentration. “Oh come off it, James. We’re all from Gryffindor, Jack.” The American smiled, relieved at Mathieu’s friendliness. “Hello. And you are…?” “Mathieu Gillette, and this.” He nudged the lightly snoring Teddy. “Is Theodore Groves.” “Pleasure to meet you both.” He turned his attention back to James.

“I believe we’re partners…” “You’re point?” “My point..” Jack said, taking James’s hand and thoroughly startling him. “Is that, I’m supposed to read your palm, and vice versa.” He thought of pulling his hand back, but Jack suddenly looked intently enthralled in what he saw, and he leaned in despite himself. “What is it?” “It says you’re a very conflicted person.” Dark brown eyes met his own. “Of course… Palmistry is rather boring. It doesn’t tell you anything you couldn’t’ve guessed on your own.” James rolled his eyes. He hardly bought in to this fortune telling bullocks, anyway… Jack smiled, catching his skepticism. “Oh, so you don’t believe in all this?” “Not in the slightest. Do you?” “Of course. I’ll prove it’s real, too..”

James was about to state how highly he doubted that when Jack gripped his hand tightly, eyes shut. “What’re you-“ “You will in the near future have a fight.. or some sort of struggle, and unjustly accuse a friend… you’ll become embittered towards a good person… And… And, you will lose one romance in favor of another, and only know the right decision after you’ve made your choice… You-“ Jack struggled as though in pain. “You-“ He dropped the stunned Brit’s hand. “Sorry. Your psyche hates me.” James just continued to stare, stunned.

“Mr. Groves!” Teddy’s hand slipped and he hit his chin on the tabletop. “huh?” “One cannot read palms with one’s ear.. Do try to stay awake in my classroom.” “Yes’m.” Teddy apologized, and Trelawney moved on with a huff of impatience. “What’d I miss?” “Jack read James’s fortune. “ “Jack?” he turned and spotted the American. “Oh. Hullo.” “Hey.” “Hold on a second..” James interrupted. “You can actually do all this mumbo jumbo?” “Well.. In a word, yes.” The three Brit’s stared at him incredulously. “What?! It’s not all that difficult, if you’ve an open mind…” “Count me out.” Mathieu stated, turning back to his book. Teddy snorted, and then stretched a bit. “Well.. Maybe I’ll give it another shot.” He yanked Mathieu’s hand towards him, ignoring the indignant protest this elicited.

Jack held out his hand. “Your turn, mate.” James rolled his eyes at the British stereotype. “Um.. well let’s see..” He glanced at Jack’s palm, and began flipping through his book. Jack laughed, and moved his seat closer to James. “Here.. I’ll help. Take my hand.” James reluctantly placed his hand under Jacks. “Now…” The American stated, indicating with his index finger a crease in the skin. “’That’ means I’m an outgoing person… And ‘this’ one.. right there, shows that I’m a fool in love. Means I wear my heart on my sleeve.” James shifted uncomfortably. Did he really need to know all this? “This one.. well.. that means I can be really dense sometimes.. Most of the times, matter of fact. You see, the shorter the line, the more foolhardy..” He quickly gripped James’s hand, turning it palm up. “Hmm.. Apparently, you’re foolhardy, too.” James tugged his hand back, and Jacks’ grin faltered. Somewhere in the back of his mind, a little voice was saying, ‘school activity or not, you’re holding that bloke’s hand!’ “What?” “Nothing.” James began thumbing through his textbook again, not caring to continue the conversation, and Jack didn’t press him. The rest of the lesson was spent in uncomfortable silence.

Jack wasn’t in History of Magic, for which James was thankful. His hand still tingled slightly from where the American had touched it. “He appeared pretty upset, when we left…” Teddy whispered to Mathieu. Whether he was referring to James or Jack, was unknown. The class went by quickly, and they made their way to the hall for dinner. A few minutes into their meal, Jack walked in. All of the tables made room for him to set down, and he looked around. James noticed a hopeful glance in his direction, but he looked away. Teddy smiled apologetically on his friend’s behalf, and Jack returned it sadly. Finally, he chose to sit by William Turner of Hufflepuff. A nice guy, if not the brightest of the lot.

The Slytherin table glowered at not having been chosen, except for Hector Barbossa. James hated Barbossa. He was Captain of Slytherin’s Quidditch team, and back in their 5th year, had purposely knocked James off his broom. He’d spent a week in the infirmary. Now he had a contemplative look on his face, watching the Yank, carefully.

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The next morning was double Herbology with the Ravenclaws. While they were planting the dangerous Jupiter Flytraps, which were essentially like normal Venus flytraps (only big enough to catch a good-sized dog, or small children) James stood casually by Elizabeth. “Morning, Beth.” She smiled, her radiating smile at him. “Good morning, James. How are you?” “Just fine, thanks.. I was.. er.. wondering…” She stopped what she was doing and gave him her full attention. A few of her friends watched (pretending not to) with amused interest, and a few Gryffindor girls watched with undisguised jealousy. James was one of the most eligible boys in school. He was Captain of the Gryffindor Quidditch team, and a prefect. To add to that, though he never thought so himself, his looks were definitely in his favor.

“Maybe on the next Hogsmeade trip we could.. do something together? Like.. get a cup of tea, or a mug of butterbeer?” He held his breath, as she took her time thinking about it. “I’d like that very much, James.” She punched him playfully on the arm, then, thoroughly shocking him. “That wasn’t so difficult, now was it?” She said so sunnily, that he could help sputtering a moment. “I’ve been expecting you to ask me for about a year now..” she explained, and he just smiled guiltily. “You should’ve spoke up.” “Oh.. but it’s so much fun to watch you try and build your courage.” “Cruel… Amazingly cruel.” She just grinned in response.

Feeling light as air, he went to lunch, and stared over at the Ravenclaw table. “Good on you, ‘ol chap.” Teddy said, clapping James on the shoulder. “It took you bloody long enough.” Mathieu added. “Good things come to those who wait, gentlemen..” “But not those who procrastinate.” “He’s got a point, James.” “Oh, both of you shove off.” He laughed, as Jack entered the hall, with an ecstatic group of Hufflepuffs. He was chatting animatedly with Will Turner. James felt something unpleasant stirring in his stomach when he noticed Elizabeth’s interest in the group. ‘Oh god… Don’t tell me she’s caught this obsession too..’

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Divination that day was awful. Jack had decided to join their class again, and James was livid at what he’d seen in the great hall. Trelawney, despite his objections, placed Jack with him again, and Teddy and Mathieu told him to be polite. Today, they’d moved on to reading tealeaves, and Jack made faces as he sipped his beverage, nearly invoking a smile from James... Nearly. “It’s just tea…” “Couldn’t we read soda carbonation instead? I always hated tea.” “Bloody Yankee..” “Snobby Brit.” The next half hour was spent in unbroken, if not somewhat amused silence until Jack finally poured the rest of his tea back in the pot. “There. Read it.” He said, holding it out to James. “Aren’t you the expert?” “We never read tealeaves back at home or at school..” he stated.

James took the cup, and glanced down at it, turning to page 8. “What’d you mean at home?” he asked, casually. “My family is very much into the whole… ‘fortune telling’ thing.. I thought my mom would die of happiness when I found out I was a wizard. She’s Wicca, and so are my dad, and sister. “ James paused from trying to decipher the leaves, and looked up. “You mean.. you’re muggle born?” “I suppose you could say that. Is that a problem?” He went back to the book. “Not to me.. but to some people it is… Ah.. that means you have.. ‘bad luck, and extreme misfortune’ coming your way..” “Oh.. um. Yay.” “Oh, cheer up. Everyone gets bad omens in this class. S’to be expected with that as a teacher..” Looking over they saw Professor Trelawney chanting over a crystal ball, which was decidedly blank. Jack turned back to James, an amused smile on his face. Just as James was about to fall into that smile, panic set in as to his actions, and he looked away, angry with himself.

As they were putting away their things after the class, Jack lowered his voice so as not to be overheard. “I was wondering if I could join your table tonight for dinner?” James continued packing away his supplies. “I’m sure the rest of the Gryffindors would be only too happy.” “And you?” “I could really care less.” “Do you hate Americans or something?” Jack said irritably. “I’ve been trying to be nice, but you keep brushing me off.” “What is your fascination with me?” “I.. don’t know. I’d just like to hang with you and your group.” James shot him a calculating look. “I’ll talk it over with them.” He said coldly and walked away. Something about Jack got under his skin one way or the other, and he was quite convinced that it was a bad thing.

“What were you and Jack talking about?” Mathieu asked, on their way down to the great hall for supper. “He wants to hang with us.” James said with a tone that implied exactly what he thought of that. “Oh really now? Well did you tell him yes?” Teddy chirped. “Certainly not.” his friends exchanged looks, and then pulled James to the side, down an empty hallway. “What's this about?” James snapped in no mood. “Has.. Jack done something to upset you?” Mathieu asked after a moment. “You nearly spit venom every time he’s mentioned.” Teddy added. “And he seems to really want to be friends. With you especially.” “My guess is that he’s a nice guy. Maybe you should give him a chance?” James was silent throughout this. “Are you both quite finished? Then listen.. I’m not sure hanging around with him is such a good idea… I mean… Do we really need all that extra attention?” But he was grasping at straws and he knew it.

“James.. the point is.. Teddy and I would like him to hang out with us. He’s an interesting fellow, and he wants to hang with us, so.. we think he should.” James stared at them for a minute, before storming off in a rage. “Fine! You two do that! Don’t expect me to be there though!” Mathieu heaved a sigh, and he and Teddy continued to the Great Hall.

Storming down one of the many corridors, trying to vent some steam, James didn’t notice whom he was walking into. “Norrington…” A cold voice drawled. With a grimace he looked up. Hector Barbossa. “What is it you want?” “Now.. Is that entirely polite? You walked into me.” James went to sidestep the Slytherin, but his path was blocked again. This time by Barbossa’s cronies, Pintel and Ragetti. “Where’sya pals?” Pintel asked with what he must’ve thought an intimidating sneer. “Not that we can blame’um for want’n to get away from you.” Ragetti added. Ragetti was an odd guy. He had one good eye, having lost the other as a child, from what he claimed to be a near fatal incident. Teddy had a theory that he tripped over his own diapers at age 7 and hit a coffee table or something. At any rate, he had an unmatched glass eye. The painted Iris was overly large and a mahogany brown, giving the whole thing the appearance of being made of wood.

“I think what they’re trying to say..” Barbossa supplied, with an annoyed roll of his eyes towards their attempted insult/threat. “Is that it’s dangerous to be walking around these halls alone. Surely you know that?” “Get out of my way.” James growled, shoving Ragetti aside. In a moment, Pintel had shoved him against the hard stonewall. His wand was out, a second later, aimed between the other’s eyes.. or perhaps a bit higher, and he spoke the first spell that popped into his mind. “Adrado!” With a soft fwump, the hair on top of Pintel’s head fell to the stone floor. He made a loud outraged noise, and, foregoing his wand, simply punched James. Taking this as a cue, perhaps, Ragetti tackled the Gryffindor, and Barbossa, raising his wand with some hex in mind, put it down and left the area quickly, as footsteps approached. James had just thrown the lighter, one-eyed Slytherin on the other when a shrill voice shrieked. “50 points from Gryffindor!.. And 100 from Slytherin! Honestly! Two against one! And I expected better of you, Norrington!..” She went on like that for a while, and an hour later in the common room her voice still seemed to echo off his skull, pummeling his brain.

“James?..” A timid voice brought him from his thoughts. “Are you alright?” Teddy and Mathieu stood in front of him, with the most pitiful guilty expressions on their faces. He tested his split lip with his tongue, before speaking. “Yeah. I guess..” “James-“ Teddy started. “We’re really sorry! If we’d been with you that… that… bâtard-“ Teddy cut Mathieu off before he could even begin raving in French. “The point is we’re sorry we annoyed you, mate. We don’t want to hang with Jack, if it means losing you.” A twinge of guilt passed through him. “M’sorry I put up such a fuss about it.” He muttered. “If you guys want, I don’t mind if he does hang with us..”

There was an awkward silence, and James looked up. His friends were wearing odd expressions. “What?” “Well, it’s not really much of an issue anymore… See, we were in the great hall and Jack was late coming in.. and when he did…” Mathieu looked to Teddy. “He was with Barbossa, and he went’an sat with the Slytherins…” James gaped. “He.. Slytherin?” Something, disturbingly like disappointment, passed through him. “I’m going to bed.” The other two exchanged glances but made no attempt to stop him. “Night..”

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The next day had all the students whispering again. Jack spent the first half of the day going to classes with Barbossa and his group. Not to mention Pintel’s sudden hairstyle change, which got half hidden laughs and smirks, even from the teachers. At breakfast, James watched Pintel, ridiculous with that gaping bald spot give a very exaggerated replay of the punch he’d dealt. Once finished, the whole group, including Jack, turned to regard him. He just shot them a cold stare, and was most pleased to see a few of them, turn away abashed. He was not pleased to see Jack was one of the one’s to turn away, and he was livid that Barbossa kept that ever-present smirk on his face.

As he was heading to his first class, advanced Charms, Jack managed to stop him. “Why’s everyone acting so odd? They were all as pleasant and annoying as could be yesterday, but now they’re glaring at me! Did I do something wrong?” Jack gave him a look as though it might’ve somehow been his doing. “Well.. Sparrow. If you lie down with dogs, you get fleas…” “And ‘you’ have chosen the mangiest dogs in school.” Gillette added dryly. Teddy remained speculatively quiet, and tossed Jack a sympathetic look, as they passed by.

Throughout Charms, rumors kept floating about. The general consensus was that Jack was a no good American, and it really made sense he was going to be in Slytherin. The class soon got everyone’s attention though. Today they’d learned the Delenimentum Charm, which soothed cursed objects back to their normal state. Professor Flitwick had jinxed 30 or so rag dolls to run around the room, attacking people’s ankles. Their job was to hit them with the charm, which was supposed to make the doll stop. Then Professor Flitwick would jinx it again, and move onto the next one. The dolls couldn’t hurt them, but they found ways of hiding, and then sneaking up which was creepy, but endlessly amusing every time one of the students shrieked.

Teddy used the opportunity to speak his mind. “You know…” He began levelly. “Just because he’s hanging around the Slytherins doesn’t make him… Like them. I mean, he was with the Hufflepuffs for a while, and no one assumed he’d be sorted in that house.” Mathieu looked down, gratefully distracted by one of the toys, and James pointedly ignored Teddy’s remark. Teddy stared at Mathieu for a moment, waiting for a reply, or even some confirmation that he’d been heard, but Mat just looked determinedly at the doll, pretending to have forgot the charm. “Deflagratio!” Teddy shouted, and the doll burst into flames, startling Mathieu half to death, not to mention a few of the students nearby. Professor Flitwick rushed over, putting out the fire with a wave of his wand. “Mr. Groves! The spell is not Deflagratio! It’s delenio! Please try to keep them straight!” and he picked up the charred doll -which had started to flee in a small cloud of smoke- and left them again, fortunately without deducting points.

“What is ‘wrong’ with you!?” James spat. “I do NOT like being ignored. And there’s no reason to be angry with ‘me’, just as there’s no reason to be angry with ‘Jack!’” “What are you looking to be his boyfriend!? What. Do. You. Care?!” A good deal of the class was paying attention now, and Mathieu had snapped out of his shock, and was now staring at James, some sort of fury apparent on his face. “You are such an unbelievably biased stuck up bastard!” Teddy yelled, not bothering to keep his voice low, and from across the room they heard the Professor squeak, and hurry to make his way over to them. “There now, Mr. Groves! 10 points from Gryffind-“ “I’m the bastard!? At least I don’t stab my friends in the back!” “Stab you in the back!? You think telling you you’re a fat-headed idiot is stabbing you in the back!?” James raised his wand, aiming it Teddy’s chest, in a blind rage. “Expelliarmus!”

Everyone watched in shock, as James's wand landed in Mathieu’s outstretched hand. “James…” he started quietly. “You need to go…” There were no words to express the anger James was feeling at that moment. Livid, and blocking out Flitwicks’ enraged squeaking, he snatched his wand back, and stormed from the room, not bothering to grab his things.

A good ten minutes stalking down the deserted hallways didn’t calm him down, however. If anything the anger just built up more until, finally, just short of the Astronomy Tower, he kicked the wall, and searched frantically for something to throw, only now lamenting that he hadn’t grabbed his books. He settled for kicking the wall again, the numb pain in his foot ebbing away at his anger. “Whoa! Easy there.. I hadn’t expected the lynching to start till after dinner…”

That voice, already familiar, and his anger came back full force. “You!” he ground out as he wheeled around, wand pointed at the stunned American. “..Me?” Jack echoed, eyes wide. “’m sorry.. did I do something?” “You damn well did! You practically cost me my best friends!” And as the words escaped his mouth a constricting panic set in, and he sank against the wall. “Oh God.. I nearly cursed Teddy…” Jack approached cautiously, when he probably should’ve been making his escape, and kneeled by the Gryffindor, setting a very timid hand on his shoulder. When James didn’t hex him on the spot he spoke.

“Teddy.. he’d be the tan one? Real nice?” James nodded, mutely. “Now.. Normally, I wouldn’t pry, but seeing as this appears to have something to do with me, will you tell me what happened?” “He doesn’t like how everyone’s treating you because you’re with the Slytherins….” Jack blinked. “I can’t say as I do, either…” A pause. “Are you saying you ‘do’ like how I’m being treated?” “That’s the company ‘you’ chose!” James sputtered, starting to regain his senses. “Ye didn’t answer my question.” “…I.. think… My opinion is really none of your business!” he snapped, irritation taking over blind rage. Irritation that, he admitted to himself, Jack might not deserve all the comments he’d been getting. The American just grinned, that infuriating smile. “Yer opinion about me is none of my business?”

“…Gods! You aggravate me to no end!” “I’d noticed.. but.. back to your opinion.” James stood up, and began to walk away. He had to go apologize to Teddy and Mathieu. “My opinion is that… you’re not as bad as the current company you’re keeping. But everyone’s worried you’ll turn out like them.” “They don’t seem to be as bad as everyone makes out!” Jack called after him. He didn’t get a response. ‘Fine.. Let him find out on his own.’

............................................


The apology went over well enough… considering. A quarter hour after he’d approached them in the common room, Mathieu had stopped yelling in French, and Teddy started on him, in English. By the time they finished telling him what they thought of his behavior, the other students had mostly left the room, tired of the raised voices, but petrified to try and stop it. “Yes. I’m an arrogant, moronic, chauvinistic, troll-witted, .. what was that word you kept using, Mat? … um..” he paused recalling. “You forgot that you’re a git.” Teddy supplied, but the smile was obvious in his tone. “Yes thank you.. Point is.. I shouldn’t have snapped like I did… Just something about that kid… aggravates me.” Mathieu and Teddy opened their mouth to rebuke that but James cut them off. “But that’s still no excuse for treating him, and you two like I did.” There was a long pause. “You’re damn right it’s not.” Teddy said, expression suddenly icy, but thawing quickly. “However,…” he started. “We want to put all this behind us. It wouldn’t be much of a friendship if we didn’t forgive you..” Mathieu finished. “I’m forgiven?” “Well.. yeah.. If you forgive me for yelling at you, too…” Teddy brought up, rubbing the back of his neck a bit nervously. “On one condition..” James said, smiling. “what’s that?” “That you tell me how to use that incendiary spell.”

That night, James lay in his bed, tossing. He was immensely relieved that Mathieu and Teddy had forgiven him, but his short conversation (if it could be called that) with Jack kept running through his head. He groaned, burying his face in his pillow. “What is wrong with me?” he whined, voice muffled. He’d always been so easy going.. and now? Now he was fighting consistently with his two best friends. Why had he said those things to Teddy? Why did it matter so much to him? Unbidden, images of Jack flooded his mind.. That stupidly infuriating contagious smile! He jumped from his bed, pacing the cold stone floor, around the bedroom. He shared it with Teddy and Mathieu (the only other Gryffindor 7th year boys) He paused a moment by the large window overlooking the lake. If he hated the kid, why did the thought of him going to Slytherin ‘hurt’ so much?

“James?” he jumped slightly, turning to see Mathieu sitting up, sleep tousled and staring blearily at him. “Why’re ya’up?” he managed around a yawn. “Just.. thinking.” He said sheepishly, retreating back to the draped privacy of his bed. There, he probed his inner mind, trying to figure out just what it was that was upsetting him.

The next morning, Friday, James managed to drag himself out of bed in time to be late for breakfast. He sat heavily across from a whispering Teddy and Mat, who stared at him a minute. “You look ‘terrible’, James…” “Thanks, Ted..” he grumbled, reaching for a muffin. “What’ve we got today?” he asked quickly when it was apparent one of them was going to ask what was wrong. “Er.. first we have potions-“ James cut off mid groan, as Barbossa strolled into the hall, Jack beside him… But he almost looked uncomfortable. He’d made a real show of using his last day of casual dress to full advantage. By Monday he’d be assigned specific attire for whichever house he was sorted in. Today he had on black cargo pants, and a form fitting white shirt, that showed his lean build. The girls in the hall that weren’t chatting about what a shame it was that he’d taken up with Slytherin, again began gossiping about his looks.

After a few minutes, he realized Mathieu was trying to get his attention. “James?” he reluctantly looked away from the American, in time to be startled to death. “JAMES!?” Spinning around, and nearly falling over, he saw Elizabeth standing right behind him, tapping her foot impatiently. “I’ve only been trying to get your attention for the past 5 minutes!” she said through clenched teeth. A good few people were looking at them now, but Elizabeth didn’t seem to notice. “I was ‘trying’ to say good morning to you!” “That wasn’t a ‘good morning’ that was an alarm.” he realized a bit late that that sounded rather rude.. Especially as he was saying it to a girl he’d fancied for years. Elizabeth looked as shocked as if someone had slapped her smartly in the face, and one of the Gryffindor girls began giggling somewhere down the table. “Well… I…” She started before turning sharply on her heel, and exiting the hall.

“Smooth, Norrington.” From the Slytherin table, of course. James gritted his teeth, but Barbossa continued, the hall in silence, straining to hear. “Tell me.. After you’ve alienated all the girls, will you go after the blokes?” It was a low blow, but effective all the same. Immediately, he went for his wand, but it knocked against the table and dropped to the ground, just as he was restrained by two Gryffindors. To everyone’s shock, Mathieu (that quiet kid from Beauxbaton) was the one who jinxed Barbossa.. or.. made an effort at it, except his hand was shaking so bad, he cursed a cluster of floating candles instead, causing them to drop on the Slytherin table with a loud clatter. His second attempt was thwarted by Teddy, who managed to restrain him, but couldn’t stop the curse words that, while in French, were obviously of the worst nature. James had never heard most of them, even when he was ranted at. Jack looked thoroughly mortified, face bright red.

Potions was almost unbearable. Mathieu had been given detention, and Barbossa had lost Slytherins 50 points, which Snape seemed to take as a personal challenge to return to them in one class. Worst of all, everyone was whispering about Mathieu now, who sat, trying his best to ignore the harsh words (from both houses). The general opinion, from what James could gather, was that Mathieu and James were ‘involved’. It was ‘obvious’, of course… ‘Why else would Barbossa’s comment have made him so upset?’

The only thing James heard Mathieu say throughout the lunch period was a muttered “It’s people like him…” Teddy just nodded at this, unusually subdued at moments, and irrationally angry the next. “I swear.. he so much as opens his ugly mouth once more today…” he’d said at one point, gripping his wand so tightly that sparks shot out it, and nearly caught Gryffindor beater Shigimi Yamoto’s bag on fire. She gave him an affronted look, that went unnoticed and James had to apologize on behalf of Teddy who was apparently running through a list of the most painful spells he knew. Barbossa, perhaps seeing Teddy’s death glare, or having heard about the deflagratio incident in Charms (apparently everyone had) wisely kept quiet, and instead seemed to be bullying Jack into an uneasy conversation. This, for some reason or another, upset James.

Transfiguration wasn’t so bad. The rumors had died down a bit, when Mathieu made no move to start snogging James right then and there, and the Gryffindors realized that while they were good friends, there had been no evidence to suggest they were more so. By the time the class was half over it was silently agreed that Mat had a family member or someone who was gay, and he didn’t take kindly to unfair prejudice, or negative stereotypes. ‘They’re much more liberal about that in France, I’ll bet…’ ‘I’ve got an Uncle who’s… ‘that way’.. nicest guy..’ ‘Too bad he missed that slimy git, Barbossa though..’ ‘what spell was that, anyway?’ By the end of the class, everyone was back to normal, except the hatred towards Barbossa and Slytherin had risen a few degrees.

Next, they had double Divination, and then the special sorting feast for Jack. Many of the Gryffindors were talking about simply skipping, as they had no inclination to see Slytherin gloat, but James knew they’d all be there. Hogwarts feasts were always excellent. As Professor Trelawney was passing out books, and everyone was chatting idly about the feast and Jack, he rushed in. The talking ceased immediately. “Sorry I’m late.. I was in the Slytherin’s-“ At the house name, the quiet intensified, and Jack actually faltered a minute before continuing. “..their.. um.. Charm class, when I remembered about Divination.” Professor Trelawney looked pleased that he’d chosen her class over Charms, and told him to take his usual seat, not commenting on his tardiness.

“How could you even think about coming back here after what happened this morning?” James hissed when Trelawney was safely out of earshot. Jack looked very uncomfortable. “He shouldn’t have said that.. I didn’t know he could be such a bastard.” Something about the bitterness in Jack’s voice stopped James from a caustic reply. “I didn’t hear you saying anything to him.” Mathieu snapped, loud enough for them to hear, but not the surrounding tables. “In case you hadn’t noticed, the Slytherins are now the only one’s who will let me near them..” And there was a definite note of hurt in his voice. “I think I’m just going to go home…” he said the last part so quietly that only James heard him. “Maybe..” James started in a whisper as well, not sure why he felt he needed to cheer the other up. “You’ll be put in a house, other than Slytherin?” though he wasn’t at all convinced himself. Jack just smiled humorlessly. “Yeah.. sure. The entire school’s convinced that I’m the reincarnation of the Slytherin founder, and they’re gonna sort me into another house…”

“The future cannot be unveiled through idle gossip.” Trelawney said mistily right behind Jack causing him to jump a foot in the air. Startled, she stumbled backwards, knocking Mathieu off his stool. Teddy snorted behind his hands. “My apologies, Mr. Gillette.” She said, before hurrying to the other side of the room. “I’m sorry… Mathieu, was it? But for a second it looked as though the Liberace of praying mantises was behind me.” It took a second for this to sink in, (Teddy cracking up first) and then the four of them were laughing so hard that it drew Trelawney back over… Which made it worse. 20 points from Gryffindor later they were quiet. “How many points do you reckon we’ve lost Gryffindor so far this year?” Teddy asked curiously, while drumming his fingernails on the table. They were supposed to be doing something with talismans, but Jack was trying to find some way to add the crystal to his already various necklace.

“What’s up with that anyway?” James asked finally, boredom making speech seem like a good idea. “Half of the things on it came from my friends before I left Salem..” he said casually. “Do you miss them?” “Yeah.. a lot, especially as I’ve become public enemy number one..” “And the other half?” James asked, seeking to change the topic. “They’re memories.. of important things and places. People, or moments.. Sentimental junk like that...” “Oh.. What’s the talisman for then?” James asked, wondering what could’ve been significant recently. “I made you laugh..” Jack froze as soon as he’d said that, and then went back to fidgeting with the crystal, face decidedly red. James couldn’t bring himself to comment, as he’d gone quite red, himself.

A few minutes later, the talisman determinedly in place, Jack finally glanced up. “Look.. about that-“ “S’no problem…” James muttered, still embarrassed. “I suppose I made it seem like I’m really an arse… I just.. want to apologize for being so moody towards you.” He blurted. “Why James..” jack started, in a tone that made James look up from his hands, that he’d been wringing. “Am I to think you really don’t hate me, after all?” James grinned, relieved for some reason or another. “Well.. I wouldn’t go that far…” The rest of the class was spent in quiet conversation. Jack told him about Salem, and he informed Jack about some of the particulars of Hogwarts.”

“James?” Jack said timidly as they headed down the stairs, Teddy and Mat slightly ahead, whispering something back and forth. “Yeah?” “After the sorting thing.. Will you still talk to me?” James was truly surprised and more than a little taken aback. “Er.. sure, I guess.” The rest of the way down to the great hall was spent in silence, until McGonagoll approached them, and asked Jack to follow her. James went to catch up to his friends.

Except for Slytherin’s table, the Great hall was oddly quiet. No one seemed eager to watch Slytherin’s number grow, but a good few people did complain about how hungry they were. When a few began to get restless, Dumbledore stood up, and everyone was quiet. “We’ve had quite a week, have we not? And now, without further ado, as I know a number of you are quite famished..” This was accompanied by a boisterous ‘Hear hear!’ from the first year Weasley twins. Even they Slytherins laughed. “..we will let the sorting begin.” Jack walked into the Great Hall, and marched slowly towards the teachers table where McGonagoll was placing the ancient frayed sorting hat.

Jack reached the back of the Hall, and stared at the hat, curiously for a moment, before jumping in fright as it began singing.

A hat of founders wise and great
A hat of varied sorts
Of minds too vast to imitate
A hat of old Hogwarts

And here tonight I am to sing
A greeting fair and warm
To tell you of a few brief things
Your mind I will inform.

If you’ve a head for bravery true
And an eager thirst for lore
If you’ve the courage to see things through
You’ll belong in Gryffindor

If above all else, you’re kind of heart,
Then you’ve perhaps the stuff
To be placed in a house apart
You’ll belong in Hufflepuff

If you can solve all riddles heard
And quick without a flaw
Then to place you elsewhere would be absurd
You’d belong in Ravenclaw

If your clever schemes are your only vice
And ambition your only sin,
Then my friend, you needn’t look twice
You’ll belong in Slytherin.

I have sung my song, you have heard me clear
Worry not where you might have been.
In a moment or two, your house you will hear
Let the sorting now begin!”

When the hat finished its song, the hall broke into tumultuous applause. Some people had expected, since there was just one student being sorted, it wouldn’t have bothered, but everyone was pleased it had. The Sorting Hat’s song was always enjoyed. Jack looked more than a bit apprehensive to go near it, but at a sharp look from McGonagoll, he did. Once he sat down, the hat was placed on his head, and the hall fell silent. A few of the Slytherins, Barbossa included, smirked at one another.

But it took a long while.. A full minute passed, and a fidgeting Jack still sat unsorted. He glanced around the tables, his face showing some sort of concentration. Maybe the hat was saying something in his head that he didn’t like? James watched Jack curiously, unconsciously holding his breath, and then.. Jack caught his eyes from across the hall. “GRYFFINDOR!” the hat bellowed, while their eyes were still locked, and a stunned silence followed the echoing word.


.................................... TBC..

Anyway.. This is a 'very' old story of mine.. and despite it's many glaring problems (I'm forever beta-less) I'm very fond of it. There are some lines in particular ("I made you smile." for instance) that just make me grin like an idiot every time.. And I'm the nerd who wrote it! I'm also quite pleased with the spells I made up. Looking through Latin word lists is, quite honestly, a blast.

Please review if this made you smile at any point. Even if you just want to laugh at Pintel's hair misfortune. :p
Oh, and feel free to point out errors to me. I just plowed through this story tonight, fixing it up a bit.. but I'm sure I missed plenty of mistakes.