Over the summer, there was much upheaval. Aside from the repair work at the castle and Sirius' arrest, there was other bad news the couple must face. A few days before his seventeenth birthday, Harry Potter was taken away from the Dursleys' home by the Order of the Phoenix. During the flight, Alastor Moody was killed and George Weasley was injured.

On August first, Holly and Remus attended Bill Weasley's wedding to Fleur Delacour. At this event, they received news that the Ministry had been overthrown. Kingsley Shacklebolt, an Order member who works for the Ministry, sent his patronus to the Burrow with the message that everyone should leave. The guests all apparated away quickly, and most made it to safety. A day or so later, they learned that the Minister of Magic, Rufus Scrimgeour, had been killed. He was replaced by Pius Thicknesse, who they would later learn is under the Imperius curse.

A couple of weeks later, Holly received a letter from Hogwarts. It was to inform her that Professor Snape had been appointed Headmaster of the school, and to let her know her class would no longer be taught there. She was given a week's notice to pick up any belongings she might have left at the castle. She looked through her things, and though she was almost sure she had brought everything home, she went to the castle the next day to check. It only took a few minutes for her to go to her classroom, office, and the quarters they had used during the repair work on the castle. She realized she was right, she had not left anything. However, her visit did allow her to pick up some bits of information. When she returned home, she told Remus what she'd learned.

"They've done away with Defense Against the Dark Arts. The class is now The Dark Arts. A few of the other teachers have been fired, and some have resigned. I also heard that the Carrows have been hired to teach."

"I can't imagine what that's going to do to the school. The Carrows are known for being cruel. The only way it could be worse would be if Bellatrix Lestrange or Fenrir Greyback were involved. I still can't get used to the idea of Snape being appointed Headmaster."

"Me either. At least some of the good teachers like McGonagall, Flitwick and Sprout are still there. Maybe they can make some difference for the students."

"I sure hope so, because it could get very rough for them."

"Especially if any of them act too loyal to Harry or Professor Dumbledore."

"That's one of my concerns as well, along with the fact that muggleborns are being excluded. So many bright students will be expecting to go to Hogwarts this year and not be allowed."

"I'm concerned about that, and wondering what else is coming not only for the school, but for the wizard community as a whole. The fact that 'You-Know-Who' has so much control over the Ministry worries me. We're both in even more danger than we were just as Order members."

"Everything you've said is true. That's why we must be very careful where we go and what we do. Some extra charms on the house won't hurt either."

They further discussed what they could do to make the house as safe as possible, and finally decided on certain charms. They both felt safer once they'd worked out what to do.

Throughout the summer, they developed the habit of visiting Sirius as often as possible, usually once a week. They brought him newspapers, magazines and other gifts from the outside world each time. A few days after learning of the situation at Hogwarts, they went to Azkaban, with a few copies each of the Daily Prophet and The Quibbler.

Remus shared with Sirius the information they've gathered.

"You probably won't believe what I'm about to tell you, but it's true. Severus Snape has been appointed Headmaster at Hogwarts."

"That slimeball?! After he killed Professor Dumbledore?? How on earth could that happen?"

"We aren't sure yet. But the Ministry has been overthrown. Scrimgeour was murdered, and Pius Thicknesse has been put in his place. We don't know for certain, but we think he's been Imperiused. Along with that, Holly's been fired, and the Carrows have been hired to teach."

"What are they teaching? How to torture people?"

"I don't know what they're supposed to be doing. I doubt it really has anything to do with teaching. I suspect it's more to do with intimidating the students. The one small bit of good news is that Professors McGonagall, Sprout, Flitwick, and several others have stayed, so that will offer the students some protection."

"It's almost unbelievable. Of all the choices available, they had to pick Snape. And of course he let his death eater buddies in the school."

"There's more you don't know. They're not allowing muggleborns in the school either. Muggleborns in general are being persecuted, so we need to be careful."

"Yes, you two better be very careful. Don't put yourself at risk to come here. I appreciate the visits and the gifts, but if it's not safe, don't come. I don't want anything to happen to either of you."

"We will be careful. For now, at least, we can do this safely from time to time."

The three of them talked for a while longer, with Sirius reminding them again to be careful. He also told them that while it was no picnic, the prison was not quite as bad with the dementors gone.

With so much free time on her hands, Holly became a little restless. She worked through it by planting a big garden, and making plans for some remodeling on the house. By the time fall had arrived, they had built a new patio off the back of the house. It was large enough to seat about fifteen people comfortably and still have room for a nice grill.

One day after it was completed, they were outside enjoying it, and started talking about how easy it had been. Holly said "If a patio was that easy, I wonder how difficult a room would be?"

"Probably not much harder. What are you thinking about?"

"I was wondering if we could add a couple of bedrooms. We've talked about having children, and they will need bedrooms."

"You're not saying you're pregnant, are you?"

"No. But you do still want kids, don't you?"

"Yes, just not yet, not with the war going on. And I'd like to discuss it with a Healer first, to make sure the child won't be a werewolf."

"I had guessed that you would feel that way. I agree that it would be best to wait a while on starting a family."

"But, while we've got the time on our hands to build, it makes sense to go ahead. If we change our minds about children, they can be used for something else."

They decided to start in a few days on the additions...two bedrooms. Within about three months, they have completed the rooms, except for furniture and carpeting.

Along with working on their house, they have also done what they could for the Order. Unfortunately, that has not been much. Before he was killed, Professor Dumbledore had explained to Remus, Holly, and several others in the Order that the only person who could really make a difference now was Harry Potter. Dumbledore had given him a secret mission that, if he succeeded would be the end of Voldemort. He had given Harry as much information as he could, and was counting on Harry's friends to help him with it as well. Though everyone present had offered to help, Dumbledore had told them it was something Harry must do mostly alone.

So Remus had decided to become involved with a radio program the Weasley twins had started called "Potterwatch". It was intended to boost the morale of Harry's supporters and relay real information regarding the war. There were also occasional updates on Harry, assuring everyone that he was alive, but never divulging his location.

Holly didn't get as involved in the radio show as Remus, but she contributed from time to time. She gathered the same information and gave it to Mr. Lovegood, the editor of the Quibbler magazine. In the last year, that magazine had become a more accurate source of information than the Daily Prophet.

A few days before Christmas, they went to visit Sirius. They brought him a mixture of books and magazines, along with a box of homemade fudge. They visited for a while, and brought him up to date on the outside world. Remus tried cheer him up by reminding him that Harry was still alive and free. They left after about an hour, and after they're away, Remus said to Holly

"I'm really worried about Sirius. He seems so downhearted-the spirit has been knocked out of him. I guess being back here, even without the dementors must be really depressing. I'm sure he feels he'll never be really free again either. That wouldn't be a pleasant thought for anyone."

"No, it wouldn't. I'm sure there's a lot going through his mind that we're not aware of. Unfortunately, the only thing we can do to help is visit him. Hopefully this will be over soon, and maybe he will be freed."

"I hope you're right."

That same day, they went to Diagon Alley to do some Christmas shopping and to stock their supplies of ingredients for Remus' wolfsbane potion. During her last year at Hogwarts, Holly had asked Professor Slughorn to teach her to make it. She'd been a decent student in Potions, and took to it fairly easily. Now she made it for him every month with no problem.

Before they left Diagon Alley, they went by St. Mungo's to talk to the Healers about children. They consulted with the group of Healers that specialized in werewolves and were told that the odds of having a normal child are in their favor.

That evening, they spent several hours wrapping gifts, listening to the wireless and occasionally dancing. Some time just before 1 a.m., they went to bed.

They spent Christmas Eve with the Weasleys, enjoying Molly's cooking as much as ever. This time, instead of offering to help, they brought a couple of covered dishes with them. They brought gifts for everyone, and enjoyed spending the evening in such pleasant company. Though everyone was worried about the three teenagers being on the run, they all knew it had to be this way. They had received word from Bill a couple of days earlier that the trio was okay. He would not give any further information because he'd been asked not to, but just knowing they were well was enough to make everyone feel a little better.

After a delicious meal and exchanging gifts, the wireless was turned on for some holiday programming. They talked at times, sang with certain songs, and danced with a few others. It was a wonderful evening, and Holly hated to leave. But, a little before 9 p.m., the couple did go home.

When they arrived, Holly poured them each a mug of eggnog to sip while they listened t the wireless broadcast. They cuddled on the couch, talking about the day and each trying to guess what the other had bought them for Christmas.

Around midnight, they decided to go to next morning, they were up around 9 a.m. and opened their gifts before breakfast.

Holly opened hers first. It's a medium-sized box, and fairly heavy for its size. When she took off the lid, she found a wizard's chess set, and a royal blue lace tank top and bikini set. She told Remus "Thanks, honey. I really like this."

" I'm glad you do. I knew you wanted a chess set, and I have to admit I got the lingerie because I like it. I love the way that color looks on you. I had to get your sister's help with it, because I wasn't sure of your size."

"You two did a good job. I love the color and this will fit like a glove" she grinned at him playfully. "Now open yours."

He took the box from her hands. It was a bigger box than hers had been in, but didn't seem too heavy. He opened it, and was visibly surprised at what was inside. There was a new pair of black jeans, a silky blue-grey shirt, and a pair of black silk bikinis.

"Thank you sweetheart. I like these colors, and I'm sure they'll fit. I've never worn bikinis; I usually buy boxers. I'm not saying I don't like these, they're just different."

"That's why I got them, to see if you would like them. I think they'll look great on you. As for the other clothes, I love the way you look in jeans, and that shirt felt so light to my fingers. I thought it would be easier on your scars."

"It should; it's so light you can barely feel it. If it wasn't so cold, I'd wear it today."

"Unfortunately, it is. But I bought it with summer in mind anyway. So, how about we cook breakfast together?"

"Sounds like a good idea to me."

They went into the kitchen and prepared breakfast together. They opted for a light meal of oatmeal and toast, because they were going to Alyssa's house for lunch.

After they finished eating, Holly went into the bedroom to dress while Remus shaved. She decided to put on the lingerie he'd given her under the jeans and sweater she'd chosen. She thought that would make a nice surprise for him that night.

Within an hour, they were on Alyssa's doorstep. She answered, and Mark was there in a second, his arms around Holly's waist. As she bent down to hug him, she felt little arms around her legs. Stephanie had wrapped herself around Holly. She kissed Mark on the cheek, then picked up Stephanie. The one year old looked a lot like her mom, with curly dark brown hair and bright green eyes. They walked into the living room and put down the gifts they had brought. As they did, Stephanie surprised Remus by reaching for him. Holly told him "She wants you to hold her. Go ahead, she seems to like you."

He did, cautiously, and the little girl began playing with his hair. Holly watched the two of them, thinking of how he might act with a little girl of their own.

They spent a couple of hours eating, listening to music, and just enjoying each others' company. They exchanged gifts, then all went outside so the kids could play in the snow. The adults got caught up in the spontaneity of it and soon were building a snowman.

About an hour later, they went inside with cold noses and pink cheeks. They had some hot cocoa to warm up, and Stephanie again seemed drawn to Remus. He played with her, seeming to enjoy himself more as time passed.

They went home just before dark, wanting to have some time to themselves as well. Once there, they turned on the wireless and sat down on the sofa. They looked again at the gifts they had received from Alyssa's family. Alyssa and Steve had given them two "couple" gifts; a nice box of ivory parchment with their names printed in gold at the top, the other was a pair of his & hers bath towels.

Holly then commented on the day, especially about Stephanie.

"Stephanie really seemed to like you, honey. I guess the girl's got good taste."

"She did seem fascinated with me. It made me wonder what it will be like when we have children. I hope I can be a good father."

"I'm sure you will. Most people don't really know what they're doing beforehand anyway, you just learn as you go. Even parents that have several children will tell you each one is different and requires different skills. All anybody can do is try, and give them lots of love."

"I guess that's true, but it seems so much harder than that."

"In some ways, it probably is. But you adapt and learn. I have complete faith in you."

Then the radio played a slow song, so they got up and danced. He held her tight, taking in every detail of how she felt in his arms, how she moved, even how she smelled. She lingered in his embrace, not wanting the song to end. She loved the feel of his arms around her, the sound of his heartbeat when she had her head on his chest. The song ended, but instead of going back to the sofa, she kissed him passionately. He responded, his mouth eagerly seeking hers. He reached down to her waist, found the hem of her sweater and slipped it up her body, breaking their kiss just long enough to get it over her head. He tossed the sweater on the couch, then ran his hands along her body, feeling the slight roughness of the lace against his skin. She caught his hand before he untucked the tank top and led him to the bedroom.

The next morning, she awoke first. She lay there, nude but warm under the covers. She was on her back, with one of Remus' arms was draped across her stomach. She slowly rolled from her back to her side, hoping her movement would not wake him. It didn't, so she watched him sleep for the next half hour. He looks so content. She thought, realizing that she was partially the source of the soft smile that he wore. I know it's not just because of the passion of last night, but because he is truly happy. I would never have thought that I could help heal someone the way I have helped him. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen him change from someone who had condemned himself as unworthy of love to someone head over heels in love with me. She ran her fingers through his sandy hair, and whispered "I love you Remus". He moved a little in his sleep, and by doing so, put his face closer to her. She kissed his cheek gently, and as she backed away, his eyes fluttered open.

"Good morning " she said

"Good morning, sweetheart."

"I've been watching you sleep. You looked so peaceful."

"I was dreaming of you. That always makes me happy."

"Thanks, you make me happy too."

He pulled her close and kissed her.

As the snow of winter melted and the days began to lengthen, Holly found herself full of energy. She didn't mind winter, but she was always glad when spring did arrive.

One Saturday in early April, however, she awoke feeling very ill. She sprinted to the bathroom, nauseous, but puzzled as to what was wrong. A few minutes later, Remus came in to check on her, having heard the noise she'd made. After a while, she felt able to go to the living room. Once she was comfortable on the couch, he asked

"What's wrong? Did something you ate disagree with you?"

"No, I don't think so. It could be a virus, but it also just occurred to me that I might be pregnant."

"Pregnant? Do you think so?"

"I missed my period a couple of weeks ago, so yes, it's possible. I'll get Alyssa to pick up a pregnancy test kit from a pharmacy in London. That will tell me for sure."

"Is there anything you need me to do?"

"Just being here helps. But some tea and crackers will help settle my stomach."

A bit later, she got Remus to use the floo network to contact Alyssa. When he'd finished talking to her, she stepped out of the fireplace into the living room. Holly told her exactly what she needed, gave her some muggle money, and she left.

An hour later, Alyssa returned with the items Holly had requested. She stayed while Holly performed the test. Holly came out of the bathroom, a surprised smile on her face.

"It's positive. I'm pregnant."

Alyssa squealed, then hugged both Holly and Remus.

"I'm gonna be an aunt. I'm so excited!"

Remus hugged Holly " A baby! I'm gonna be a father."

Holly replied "Yes, in about eight months. In the meantime, I hope the morning sickness doesn't last long."

Alyssa told her "For me, it was only about six weeks. But I've heard as little as four and as much as twelve. Hopefully you'll be in the first group."

After a few more minutes of celebrating Alyssa left, telling Holly that if she needed her, let her know.

Remus sat down beside Holly, and put his arm around her.

"Don't worry, I'll take care of you. Just help me learn what I need to do."

"I appreciate that, and I will. For now, I just need to rest."

She slid down in the couch so that she was stretched out, with her head in his lap. A little while later, she's feeling better, so he asks if she'd mind if he visits Sirius to tell him. She laughs a little "No, of course not. He'd be furious if you didn't let him know right away."

Over the next couple of weeks, Remus did a very good job of taking care of Holly. She explained what she needed, and he made sure she had it.

In late April, they are notified one evening of a battle going on at the school. Voldemort's followers have overrun the castle and grounds. The teachers that are loyal to Dumbledore, along with most of the students, are putting up a good fight. But they need everyone they can get, so McGonagall has summoned everyone in the Order. Remus tries to talk Holly into staying behind, because of her pregnancy, but she insists on going anyway, reminding him that she could be killed at home just as easily. So, they leave almost immediately. They arrive at the school in seconds, having used the floo network. They emerge in the staff room as before, and run out into the corridor. As they enter the corridor, a death eater runs by one end of the hall, and Remus goes after him; at the same time, one comes through the hall from the opposite end, and Holly goes after that one. This is the last they see of each other for about an hour. They each skillfully defend themselves against several different opponents. Remus is confronted by, and kills Fenrir Greyback, the werewolf who had infected Remus as a child.

There's a break in the battle, when Voldemort announces that they have an hour to collect their dead and wounded. At this point, everyone has gathered in the Great Hall. When Remus walks in, Holly sees him and runs to him. They embrace tightly, each thankful the other is alive. They then separate, just holding hands, and see that quite a few were not so fortunate. Among the families who have lost a loved one are the Weasleys, whose son Fred was killed. After a moment's thought, the couple approaches them. Holly walks to Mrs. Weasley, and without a word, just hugs her. She holds the older woman for a few minutes, just letting her cry on her shoulder. Molly then pulls away, and rubs Holly's shoulder in silent acknowledgment of her show of support. They talk a little, but don't really say much...after all, there's not much one can say to comfort a family who has lost a child. Holly steps back a bit, watching the scene, reminded of how she'd felt when her family had been killed. It had taken a long time for her to completely heal from that, but she had finally found peace in her life. She hoped they would as well.

A while later, fighting breaks out again. There were a handful of Death Eaters in the castle, and Voldemort himself was in the Great Hall. Everyone that could was engaged in combat with someone. Bellatrix Lestrange was battling Hermione Granger, Luna Lovegood and Ginny Weasley. The girls were defending themselves well, then Mrs. Weasley saw what was going on, and ran to their aid. Fueled by rage and grief, she easily finished Bellatrix off, thus saving her daughter and friends.

As this was happening, Harry Potter walked into the Great Hall, removing his invisibility cloak after seeing Bellatrix killed and McGonagall, Slughorn, and Kingsley Shacklebolt dueling with Voldemort. He announced that he wanted no help, this was between the two of them. After a few long minutes, during which he explained the mistakes Voldemort had made in his plan for immortality, he killed him. As had happened before, Voldemort's wand refused to perform correctly, having recognized Harry as it's master. The curses met, Voldemort's killing curse backfired and killed him instead. In that instant, it was over...the Dark Lord was dead, and the rest of the wizard world was free from the fear his reign had caused.

The next several weeks were spent in a blur of activity and sadness. There were funerals for all the dead; the Lupins attended the services for Fred Weasley and some of the other students. Then, they helped the rest of the staff help repair the castle, which had sustained major damage during the battle.

The year Snape had been headmaster had been difficult for all the students. There had been a new admissions policy that had allowed only pureblood students to attend. Any that showed any loyalty to Harry or Dumbledore had been expelled. As a result, there were a lot of gaps in learning for all concerned. To correct this, the old, open admission policy was reinstated, and all students higher than first year would take tests in each subject. This would allow the instructors to tailor the classes to the needs of the students. Anyone who needed it would also receive tutoring in any area necessary.