train heist · outlaws · dangerous elegance · stealth · ensemble cast · autumn setting · high stakes · survival · rogue
Coal smoke and damp leaves hang heavy in the September air. The Hogwarts Express breathes steam into a grey sky, its golden windows cutting through the crowd of students. By a carriage door, a knot of familiar figures stands bathed in that warm light. James's new glasses catch the glow; Sirius's collar shifts, revealing the edge of a fresh tattoo; Peter stands a little straighter with his new haircut. Remus turns, the scars on his face deepening as he smiles. Then Sirius's eyes find yours and he steps forward, a slow, dangerous curve touching his lips. "Long time, troublemaker. Ready to make this year interesting?"