Disclaimer: I own nothing from Harry Potter or His Dark Materials.

Chapter One: James

James was fourteen when it happened. He had just caught the snitch winning the quidditch cup for Gryffindor for the first time in 3 years. As he hit the ground he turned and scooped up Ayrielle spinning her in a hug as his house spilled out into the field. He felt her form twist and expand and as he spun to a stop he froze in surprise. "Is this it?" he asked staring into the deep blue eyes of his daemon. She leaned forward gently butting her head against his chest, "Of course," she replied, "were you expecting anything less?"

James grinned throwing his arms around her neck once more, "Of course not Ayrie! You're beautiful." he exclaimed happily. The crowd spilled around them chanting "POTTER! POTTER!" as they ushered the quidditch team back up to the castle. Turning to his Ayrielle, James exchanged a grin, he'd just have to tell Sirius tomorrow. Imagine his reaction when he realized Ayrie had settled as a lion. The Gryffindor jokes would never end, but somehow James was okay with that.