10 Things I Was Thrilled to Find in HP:HBP, as a Fanfic Writer

[tarotgal]

THAR BE SPOILERS HERE!!!
Don't click the cut-away link if you don't want 'em! :-)


10 Things I Was Thrilled to Find in HP:HBP, as a Fanfic Writer
in no particular order

1. Ron saying "the Marauders". There's been debate for a while in communities as to whether MWPP should actually be called the Marauders or whether that's just what they named their map so that it sounded nice. But now the name of their group is officially canon, and I think it's safe to assume they called themselves that as well. As that's what I've always called them, I'm very glad it's now official :-)
   
   
   
2. Side-Along-Apparating. I am incredibly thrilled by this concept, as it's one I've wanted (and tried) to use in fics several times but never had a proper name for. It's great to see it actually exists. And as a hurt/comfort writer, it's great to know it can be used when a person has been hurt. In addition, I loved the description of what apparating actually feels like and is performed.
   
   
   
3. Werewolf details. This encompasses many elements. First, of course, is the distinction between "surface" werewolves and those which live "below" and the fact that Remus has been living with them for some time (as well as how he refers to them). Second, I enjoyed Remus' backstory and the darkness of the werewolf who not only enjoys biting children but uses it as a weapon on many levels. I've always loved the connections between the dark lord and werewolves in fanfics, and these bits open up a world of possibilities. Third(and my favorite), is the explanation of what will happen when a werewolf bites a human not during the full moon. (Personally, my Bill/Remus desires soared at that point in the story, but in general it's definitely a good thing to know for things like sex scenes)
   
   
   
4. Remus' "Furry Little Problem". Oh, how I DO love James! I'm dying to work that into my next Marauder's era fanfic, now.
   
   
   
5. New characters and secondary character details. Just like in OOtP, I love the little bits that give us more information about other characters. In general, I have many more to play with now. And I have many more details, like Professor Sprout's first name and the fact that Lily was good at potions (as well as Charms).
   
   
   
6. Fred and George's store and flat. I have quite a few stories revolving around the twins which are set in their store and their apartment, and I was bouncing up and down when it was mentioned that they do, indeed, own a flat just above their shop together. I so knew that. And I'm glad I don't have to go rewrite all those fics now.
   
   
   
7. Lily and James' graves. Considering I have one WIP centered around Remus at their funeral, it's such a relief to know they do have actual graves.
   
   
   
8. The Bloody Barron haunts the Astronomy Tower often. An important detail to be aware of considering how many sex scenes are set up in the Astronomy Tower.
   
   
   
9. Snape's background. Again, more details. In addition to backstory and character morality, we also get parentage details and handwriting.
   
   
   
10. New spells and magics. As always, there are plenty of new spells and concepts in general that will prove most useful in fics. Everything from new plants to the concepts of silent spell-casting.