the_debt_of_time

"Indeed?" Snape's jaw had gone rigid with anger. "You think a joke shop could
supply him with such a thing? You don't think it more likely that he got it directly from the
manufacturers?"
Remus repressed a knowing grin. Snape had clearly remembered the nicknames that
the Marauders used for one another. Well, it wasn't like we were subtle about using them in public.
"I shall pursue any hidden qualities it may possess. As you say, it's my area of
expertise," Remus responded, taking note of the look of loathing that fell over Snape's face.
"Come with me, Harry."
Once inside his own office, Remus shut the door behind Harry and threw the
Marauder's Map on his desk before turning around and leaning against it, folding his arms.
He looked down at Harry, trying to evoke an expression of disappointment. He had to try
and imagine how Lily would look in this situation, since he knew that James would be
grinning from ear to ear.
"I don't want to hear explanations. I happen to know that this map was confiscated
by Mr Filch many years ago. Yes, I know it's a map," he said when Harry's bright, green
eyes showed his surprise. "I don't want to know how it fell into your possession. I am,
however, astounded that you didn't hand it in. Did you ever stop to think that this―" He
picked up the map as he spoke. "—in the hands of Sirius Black... is a map to you?"
Harry looked down, and Remus let out a sigh of relief, hoping that maybe the boy
had realised the severity of the danger in which he had put himself. He set the map back
down on his desk, eager to place it somewhere hidden and secure, to make certain that
Sirius did not come into contact with it.
"Why did Snape think I'd got it from the manufacturers?"
The question caught Remus off guard. "Because... Because these map-makers
would have wanted to lure you out of school. They'd think it extremely entertaining."
"Do you know them?" Harry asked, a look of excitement on his face.
Remus's mouth formed a tight line. "We've met," he answered shortly. "I think you
know that I can't give you back the map, Harry. I would suggest you do your best to avoid
Professor Snape for the time being, as well."
Harry turned to leave but paused as he opened the door of Remus's office.
"Professor, just so you know, I don't think the map always works. Earlier, it showed
someone in the castle. Someone I know to be dead."