The Marauders face lingering tension after Remus’ secret is revealed, but their friendship solidifies when James, Sirius, and Peter promise to keep his condition safe. During Potions, Professor Slughorn separates the boys to curb trouble, placing Remus with Lily Evans, where an unlikely bond begins to form. Conflict erupts when Snape mocks Remus, leading Lily to subtly sabotage his potion, causing a spectacular explosion and momentarily uniting the group in laughter.