Chapter 12 – First Year – Christmas 1971

The Marauders head home for their first Christmas since starting at Hogwarts. Remus returns to a small but warm celebration with his parents, grateful for the gifts and love despite their modest means. Sirius faces a cold, hostile holiday with the Black family, enduring the tension and pure-blood prejudice that he despises. Meanwhile, James enjoys a lively and loving family gathering, reminding the boys how different their worlds can be. Each of them reflects on friendship, family, and the ties that are beginning to shape their lives.