EXTRA SCENE: This didn't fit in unfortunately, but I had it written, so why not? This is the last chapter of their Hogwarts years, which is sad… The next chapter will start Magical War and will be posted here, so don't worry about having to look for it.

Emma sat in Transfiguration, only half listening to McGonagall's lecture – Sirius was bothering her.

Swift,

Please go out with me! You won't regret it,

-Padfoot

.

Padfoot,

We've been through this a hundred times, no!

-Swift.

.

Swift,

Please? Just one date? We could go somewhere nice? This isn't just another fling – I love you.

-Padfoot

.

Padfoot,

Shut up, I beg you,

- Swift.

.

Swift,

Come on! What will one date do? Give me a chance,

-Padfoot.

.

Padfoot,

Stop courting Swift, she's a Wandless and therefore may kill you,

-Moony

.

Moony,

Shut up, Swift isn't going to hurt me while we're dating,

-Padfoot

.

Padfoot,

Although it's true that she will most likely hurt you if you ever dated; I didn't mean that, Swift is so ticked right now that I am counting the seconds until she blows something up.

-Moony

.

Moony – Well spotted,

Swift – think about it,

-Padfoot

.

Padfoot,

Just shut up!

-Swift

.

.

.

Where We Stand – 7

Emma screamed as Sirius fell to the ground in a flash of green wand light. His eyes wide and staring, devoid of the usual spark they held. She looked up to face the attacker, only to be met by deep brown eyes and the tip of her own wand.

"Good bye Protem."

Emma sat up in bed, Sirius's name on her lips. She ran a hand through her sweat soaked hair, breathe heavy. It wasn't the first dream like that she'd had and she knew it wouldn't be the last.

Standing, Emma made her way to the common room, knowing that she'd never get back to sleep now. The grate was empty, but with a wand flick Emma had it lit and roaring.

Staring into the fire she reflected once again on her dream. It was always the same; Sirius dying before her eyes, and then those brown eyes, a wandless's eyes, staring her down, filled with hate.

She shook herself to disperse the dark thoughts. Already the sun was beginning to rise; signalling that she'd been staring into the grate for some hours. She sighed, the last game of the season was today, one could only pray she played well despite her lack of sleep; James would have her head otherwise.

All too soon the team was up and assembling themselves, getting ready for the final game. As was custom, Gryffindor was the favourite, having a hundred more points then anyone else.

"Alright team, here we are, the last game we'll get to play together," James eyed his team seriously, a small smile on his face. "We've had a good run, brought home the cup more times then I can count and I'm proud of all of you – that said, should we lose I'll kill you personally and feed you to Hagrid's latest experiment."

"I wondered when the threat was coming," Elaine murmured wistfully, leaning on her broom.

"Let's show them what Gryffindor is made of," James said, tears welling up in his eyes. "Let's go out with a bang!"

"YEAH!" Sirius stood, raising his fist in the air. "FOR GRYFFINDOR!"

Emma and Remus exchanged a look before standing, both chuckling lightly. "For Gryffindor," Emma agreed.

The two teams walked onto the pitch in the glaring sun, griffin feathers adorning those of Gryffindor, while yellow and black pain marked those of Hufflepuff.

"Players, mount your brooms!" Hooch called, watching the two teams with affection.

"THE QUAFFLE IS RELEASED… AND THE GAME BEGINS!"

Emma rocketed upwards, Sims on her tail from the get go.

"Our last game Dill," Shiloh said, the two of them speeding side by side.

"Our last game," Emma agreed, a mischievous glint in her eye. "The Quidditch Scouts are down bellow again."

Shiloh grinned back, yellow paint sparkling in the sun, "What do you say to giving them something worth watching Dill?"

"It is the last one," Emma grinned, "May the best seeker win."

Shiloh nodded, "I'll miss playing against you Dill."

"Likewise Sims."

With matching grins the two seekers back flipped through the air, diving downwards at breakneck speeds, racing to find the snitch as they never had before. It became obvious to those watching that this game was going to bring out the true skills of the players, not only because it was the final game of the year, but also because it was the last time anyone would verse the team James Potter had put together; a team that had brought the Hogwarts Quidditch bar a few notches higher.

The crowd clapped and whooped in awe as James, speeding down the pitch with the quaffle in hand, literally jumped in mid air to avoid a bludger, landing back on his broom with what seemed to be ease, scoring with little difficulty.

Sirius had yet to miss a target, he and Marlene could be seen smacking bats after they teamed up to take a rival beeter out of the air.

Remus had made some of the most spectacular saves of his career, rolling upside down at one point and hanging onto his broom with only his legs to catch the quaffle.

Shiloh and Emma were like two bees flitting around the stadium. Going faster then anyone else and appearing untouchable to the other players.

After only 20 minutes of game play and as James scored the seventh goal against Hufflepuff, the two seekers dived.

The stadium inhaled as both seemed to kiss the ground, skimming along the field so low that they had to stand on their brooms. Then, suddenly, they had re-seated and were flying upwards, Emma flipping upside down to catch the snitch.

The stadium erupted in cheers, even the teachers standing in awe; tears visible in McGonagall's eyes.

The Gryffindor's landed in a jumble, screaming their heads off. Elaine could be seen getting a noogie from James; Marlene and John Jenkins jumping up and down in a hug. Sirius and Emma had almost kissed, the later blushing and turning away at the last second only to get picked up and thrown over Sirius's shoulder. Remus was grinning, pulling James off Elaine.

Dumbledore watched them all, his eyes twinkling as he wiped a stray tear from his eye; he would remember this forever.

The party that took place that night in Gryffindor tower was more insane then any before, or any that would come after.

Within minutes the whole common room was intoxicated; though one would think that after seven years they would know better then to drink anything Sirius might have handled. James and Lily were dancing in the middle of the room, off beat to the music while Remus and Sirius argued about who could cast a better stinging hex. They stood at one end of the room, sending stingers into the crowd and laughing manically when people screamed. Eventually Peter was recruited to stop them, but rather then listen Sirius turned him into a book.

Walking by Emma picked the book up, intent to put it on a shelf when it began screaming at her. Shocked, Emma dropped it, only to grab her wand and attempt to turn Peter back. He did eventually go human, but with Emma's intoxication he spent a few minutes as a tea cup, an ox, a rabbit and, unfortunately, an armchair that Elaine fell asleep in for several minutes.

The next morning found the whole common room filled with snoozing teens, apparently McGonagall hadn't come to stop them for once.

Emma groaned, her legs were raised in the air, on the couch and sandwiched between Sirius and Remus while the rest of her was on the floor. With a cracked eyelid she noticed that Sirius seemed to be sucking Remus's big toe.

She yelped when she saw Peter above her, sleeping on the glass coffee table amidst a puddle of drool. She sat up groggily, finding Lily and James's feet sticking out from beneath the couch.

"What the hell happened last night?" She wondered allowed, rubbing her head.

"Awe… Swift."

Emma frowned as Sirius muttered in his sleep. "Sirius, that isn't me, it's Remus's toe."

"Huh?" Sirius cracked open an eye, spitting Remus's toe out with a disgusted look. "Owe! Merlin's left buttocks my head!" He moaned, "Remus get up!"

"I'm sheeping… go away Sirius," Remus muttered, snuggling Sirius legs.

"OWE!" Remus and Emma yelled as Sirius kicked Remus off the couch; the werewolf landing in Emma's lap painfully.

"S'happening?" Peter asked, looking up groggily. Upon seeing the Marauders he groaned and rolled over, landing on the rug with a thump, the only sign he was even alive being his snores.

Sirius began inspecting Emma's feet then, tickling them when she giggled.

"S-S-Sirius! S-st-st-stop it!"

"Really, stop!" Remus complained, being lifted and battered as Emma laughed from beneath him. "Ohh… my head…"

"What'er you lot doin' now?" Lily groaned, peaking up from the other side of the couch, hair sticking up and James's glasses on her face.

"Where're my glasses?"

"Oh, is that why everyone's so blurry?" Lily frowned, taking the spectacles off and handing them down to James.

It wasn't until she was on her way to the dorms that Emma noticed Elaine, wedged into the bottom row of a bookshelf, her head propped up on an empty butterbeer bottle.

It was quite a bit later when Lily had enough wits to think straight. She was still determined to make the aloof Black heir accept her, though how she was going to manage that proved a mystery. Still… there had to be a way…

.

Emma and Sirius's dance lessons continued when time was available, but rather then the emotional scene the first one had been, these lessons were more public. Lily and the other Marauders often came to watch them 'dance' in an unused classroom; James bringing popcorn for everyone.

To say the least, Emma was not improving. The grace she carried when she walked or duelled seemed to dissipate the moment the music started. James found this particularly amusing.

"Come on Swift, left foot, other left foot!"

"You're not helping Prongs," Emma snapped, almost tripping over Sirius's feet.

"Ignore him, concentrate on me – right front, left front, right back, left back, good! Twirl – no!" Sirius grabbed Emma as she tripped up; James cackling madly with Peter and throwing popcorn. Lily giggled into her hand, trying not to be mean, though in all honesty Emma didn't seem to mind the other's teasing.

It was a few days later that Lily got the chance to make things right between her and Sirius. She'd been roaming the castle, just thinking and taking in the sights. Graduation was fast approaching and she wasn't ready to leave. Everything was going to change in only a few short weeks. It was on her walk that she stumbled upon Sirius, sitting on top of one of the towers, feet hanging over the edge. He seemed to be watching something, face laced with sorrow and worry.

"Sirius?" Lily asked, walking up to him and leaning beside him against the wall.

Sirius started before forcing a smile, "Evans… what brings you here?"

"I was just thinking, just walking and remembering, what are you doing?"

"She's there," Sirius said, pointing to the edge of the forest. If Lily really squinted she could almost make out a lone figure facing the trees. "She's really going to leave; I can feel a piece of her disappearing every day."

Lily rested a hand on Sirius's shoulder, having to strain to reach, what with him sitting on the stones, "She's never going to leave you Sirius; she's always going to love you. This is something Emma has to do, in the same way you had to defy your parents; she has to find another like her."

"But that's just it Evans, she's no different then us, we love her."

Lily gave a small sigh, "To you she's the same, but to Emma she's different. Think about everything that's happened Sirius, think about what it must be like, what it would be like to have powers no one else can understand, to sometimes think differently…"

"You really understand her," Sirius said, looking down at Lily from his high perch. "I could never really grasp her whole 'I am different' persona."

"I'm muggleborn," Lily answered, "It was the way I sometimes felt before Hogwarts, but even then, I had Snape, to have no one would have been very difficult."

"What if she finds this wandless and decides to leave for good?" Sirius asked, staring off into the distance again, "What if she chooses them over me?"

"She won't," Lily said easily, "Emma will never put anyone over you Sirius, not even herself."

Sirius frowned, "Thank you Ev-Lily." Lily's brow rose as he spoke. "I needed to hear that."

"It was the truth," Lily smiled, "Well, I should get going, good night."

"Wait E-Lily," Lily turned to see Sirius looking troubled, his brow scrunched up.

"Yes Sirius?" she asked kindly.

"I, err… well it's come to my attention that I may owe you an apology." Lily blinked in shock, a smile working its way onto her face. "See the thing is Prongs is my best mate, he's my family. I was afraid that once he had you he'd forget about us…" he shuffled his feet uneasily, banging them against the stone. "I was jealous, but that's no excuse. I'm sorry for being such a pratt and I was hoping we could call a truce."

Lily walked back, putting her hand once again on his shoulder, "Of course, now, come on in before you fall off the tower, James would never forgive me if something happened to you."

Sirius chuckled, swinging his legs over in one swift movement and hopping down. He threw an arm around her with ease, a smile once again on his handsome features, "You know Lily, I never thought I'd say this, but you're more of a Marauder then I initially thought."

Lily grinned, pulling Sirius down the corridor, "I'm honoured Sirius."

"You should be."

.

.

.

The next weekend found Emma, Remus and Sirius walking through muggle London looking for an apartment. They had gotten permission from Dumbledore – for once – to leave school.

They attracted odd looks from every landlord they spoke with. A girl moving in with two boys was considered rather outlandish, especially since she was unmarried and related to neither. While the griffin feathers in her hair may have given some people the impression of a hippie, those who looked closer noticed the dark tones to their clothing. They'd see not bell-bottoms but jeans of a tighter cut, expressions alert and tones filled with maturity.

These three were well aware that they were in a war zone and were prepared for a fight, should one surface. This was not a frivolous outing, where they skipped along, but a mission to find a flat and get back to safety.

They stopped at a small dinner for lunch, sitting outside where they were less likely to get trapped.

"What about this one?" Emma asked, putting one of the floor plans down on the table between the three of them.

Sirius and Remus sat across from her, but Sirius was the one to shake his head, "It's on the first floor, any idiot could sneak in through a window."

"Security," Emma replied, the implication of spells being used picked up by the others.

"His people won't be stopped by a flick or two," Remus said darkly, agreeing with Sirius. "What about that one on the fifth floor?"

"I want a balcony," Emma argued, "Easier escape."

"Well what about this one?" Sirius asked, pulling it out of the pile.

"The kitchen's too small," Remus sighed.

Sirius's brow rose, "So, none of us can cook-"

"I beg your pardon," Emma asked, looking up annoyed.

"Okay, you can cook but Moony sure as hell can't."

"I'll have you know that I can cook Padfoot, thank you."

"Is it just me then?" Sirius asked, brow furrowed.

"It would appear that way," Emma smirked, "I agree with Moony though."

"That hurts Swift."

"You'll live Paddy, I swear-"

"Swift, is she?"

The three Marauders turned to see five or so bikers walk onto the deck, helmets tucked under their arms and cocky grins in place. Each one wore a leather jacket, some had bandanas, others sunglasses. The one who had spoken was the obvious leader. He had blond-white hair and blue eyes, sunglasses held up so he could see better, a red bandana around his head.

"Swift at what?" His thugs laughed and whooped at the joke, taking residence at a table behind her. "You got a real name Sugar?"

Remus and Sirius were at attention, both gripping their wands beneath the table. Sirius's eyes were burning with hate; Remus was simply waiting for the next move in a game of chess.

'Muggle,' Emma mouthed across the table at them, trying to calm them both down, the last thing they needed was a trip to Azkaban for inappropriate magic.

"Well Sugar? I'm still waiting for that name."

"I don't know if 'Sugar' would describe me accurately," Emma said calmly, eyes still on Sirius and Remus. "Sugar implies I'd be sweet."

"You wouldn't be sweet?" The gangster chuckled.

"I'm more like a kick in the nuts, if you catch my drift."

Sirius stood then, shocking Emma with his speed as he caught the man's hand, a hand which had been inching towards her hair.

"Don't. Touch. Her." Sirius said evenly, eyes cold as ice. Emma shivered, the last time he had been this mad was after his uncle had died.

"Why mate, is she your girlfriend?" The man chuckled, his cronies following his lead, "Most girls let you sit beside them."

"Most people know when to sit down and shut up," Sirius responded. "But there are exceptions to every rule."

The man stood, throwing his chair out behind him, "You calling me stupid?" he hollered, face red with anger.

"I'm glad you caught on so fast."

All three of the Marauders were standing now, Emma being the closest with the table blocking the boys.

The man stepped forward, "I'll do what I want," he snarled, fingers inching towards Emma's face.

A moment later and he was kneeling in pain, holding his goods and groaning, "Guess you forgot what I said about being like a kick in the nuts," Emma said easily. The others backed away from the Marauders. There was something off about all of them.

Remus motioned to the others, leading the way from the dinner, paying the waitress on the way out.

They walked down the sidewalk briskly. "Out of school for five minutes and we're in trouble," Emma fumed.

"I'd like to point out that for once this wasn't my fault," Sirius threw in, making Emma's mouth quirk into a smirk.

"For once."

"The next apartment is three blocks over," Remus said, checking his watch, "Come on, let's go."

Emma caught Sirius's wrist, holding him back for a moment, "Thank you," she said sincerely.

"Anytime Swift," Sirius smiled, loping an arm around her, "Come on, we better get a move on or we'll lose the big bad wolf."

"I heard that mutt."

Sirius chuckled as Remus yelled back at them, hurrying forward.

By the end of the weekend they had found a flat they all approved of. It had three bedrooms, a kitchen, bath and living room. There was also a balcony and all on the seventh floor.

Remus and Emma had insisted that Sirius take the master bedroom, since he was the only one likely to get a job. The next few days were filled with catalogue pages being turned, the trio searching for furniture.

And so another week passed, in a mad flurry of detentions for both Emma and Sirius, all on trumped up charges from various teachers. The Marauders didn't have much time for pranks, between NEWTs, moons and searching for jobs/apartments.

It was on the last Friday of May that James was called to St. Mungo's – his mother, Mary Potter, was ill.

Lily accompanied James and the others to the hospital, all of them silent and tense. Emma had a hand on James's shoulder throughout most of the day, and for Lily it was like seeing two orphans try to comfort each other. Eventually the others left, giving James space, but Lily stayed; she just couldn't leave him.

James held Lily's hands in his, sitting by his mother's bed, wishing that her latest test results had been different. Dragonpox were not a serious illness in most people, but his mother was quite old and hadn't been looking her best since his father had died. She'd been pale at Easter, her face thinner and now, laying in the bed unconscious, she was the picture of death.

James knew that the others had just gone into the waiting room; that they were trying to give him space and for the most part he was grateful; but he was still thankful that Lily had stayed.

Lily was very different from the Marauders in James's eyes. She wasn't his sibling, as the others were, but she was a part of his life, a huge part of his life.

"I love you," he whispered, listening to the lump-bum of his mother's heart, which was amplified throughout the room.

"As I love you," Lily responded, squeezing his hands gently.

"What am I going to do if…" James couldn't finish the sentence. What would he do if his mother died?

James felt fingers under his chin, raising it so that he was on eye level with Lily. "You keep on living, we keep running down the path we're on and you remember. She'll always be there in your memories; she'll never leave you."

James smiled, "I-"

A pause in the constant thrum that filled the room cut him off, a blaring siren catching his attention.

"Mom? MOM!" James ran to her side, Healers pouring into the room.

"MOM! I love you! MOM!"

Within seconds he was hauled out of the room, the door shutting in his face, Lily at his side; her eyes filled with tears.

It took James a moment to realize he was crying as well, took ages for him to recognize that Sirius was trying to talk to him.

His mother was dead.

He knew it, even before the Healer came out and told him the news; he'd known it the moment her heart stuttered.

I'll never forget you, never stop loving you...

.

It was several days later that James stood in the front row of an assortment of witches and wizards, all paying respects to his mother.

He was officially the last of the Potters, all the estates fell to him, all the gold and titles; but what James really wanted was his parents.

Godric's Hollow was full to the brim with mourners, people who had come to watch the plot next to Harold Potter be filled. In that moment James no longer got to be a child, another student at Hogwarts, suddenly he was expected to grow up and be a man. He was expected to keep things in order, expected to get a good job, a good wife, have half a dozen heirs and then kill Voldemort or some such nonsense. That's what it really felt like, as James stood, hands clasped behind his back and tears kept off his face by some miracle; it felt like one huge joke, a load of tosh and nonsense. It felt like the war was already lost.

How many had they lost in the last few years? Alphard, his parents, the Dills, Hannah Summers, Mary Macdonald, Joyce Walters, half a dozen people he only knew by sight and plenty more he'd never seen. No, they had lost far too many and how many more were to come? Would the next funeral be for a Marauder? A Professor? Hagrid?

James shook his head, this war was madness, a madness that was far worse then any Nightmare his mind could conjure. It was a demon's haven shrouded in sparkling sunlight, sunlight that shone now, on the day his mother was to be buried.

His fists clenched in anger, eyes hardened with determination; he would end this, somehow he would find a way to make this stop, to protect those he loved.

The wind whispered secrets across his skin, words he could not hear but could easily comprehend.

And once made, the promise will be kept…

And he would keep it; he would find a way to protect them if it cost him his life.

.

.

.

Before they knew what was happening NEWTs were upon them, being held two weeks before OWLs, so that results could be sent to programs faster. The NEWT examiners were all rather stern looking, and none for them gave Emma more then a second look when they passed her in the hall; excepting Mr. Tsude, who squeaked every time he caught sight of her. Considering Emma's position in the community as a terrifying monster, she couldn't help but hold these examiners in high regard, even pausing to thank them for allowing her to take the tests.

"We are the elite," a stern woman with iron curls replied for the group stiffly, "What sort of impression would it leave if we could not stand to face you, when for several years mere children have? Do not think for a second that I will go easy on you wandless, because I won't."

"I am grateful for that," Emma smiled, surprising the woman, "Honoured to be given this chance."

The woman's lips curled, in to what was a faint impression of a smile, "Show me your best… Miss. Dill."

Poor little Tsude did not have to face Emma, as it turned out; he was the examiner for Astrology and Divination, neither of which she was taking.

Peter however, found himself climbing the rickety ladder, for his exam on Wednesday.

"Take a seat Mr. Pettigrew," the short wizard said, gesturing to the seat across from him. Between them sat a covered, circular table and crystal ball. "Take a look and tell me what you see?"

Peter smiled, looking into the depths of the mist; the crystal ball was his specialty.

A girl with misty blue eyes, cold as death stood in a field, an odd smile on her face… green light, a baby's cry… A man with red eyes and a flowing black cloak stepped out of a cauldron, a calculating smile on his lips... The trees of the forbidden forest came alive, ripping their roots out of the ground, pulling into ranks as if commanded by a general… Dumbledore falling, eyes wide and unseeing… a white flag with a red bird burning… Brown eyes dark with hatred, "Goodbye Protem," a voice said sweetly. "Avada Kadavra!"… A lightning scar…

Peter surfaced from the ball with wide, horrified eyes.

"Mr. Pettigrew?" Tsude prompted, looking worried. "What did you see?"

"I-I saw," I saw Emma and Dumbledore die! I saw the Order fall! I saw the forbidden forest attack the school! I saw You-Know-Who! "I saw… I saw James and Sirius become Aurors," he said shakily, "But Emma was rejected… she was very angry."

Tsude sat straighter, eyes bright with fear, "Did anyone get hurt?"

"N-no just some trees in the forest and I saw – I saw a child die Sir, the green light and a cry…"

Tsude looked suddenly sympathetic, "All true seers suffer Peter; I am sorry for what you saw, but, if it helps, you did pass."

Peter nodded numbly, "I think I'll go see Madam Pomfrey, if we're done?"

"Yes of course," Tsude said gently.

Peter bolted from the room, heart hammering in his chest. They die. They all die! The Order falls, Hogwarts… Peter cringed, leaning against a wall in horror, Everything burns…

There was no choice, Peter realized, joining the Order was suicide; once Dumbledore and Emma were gone they'd be flubberworms waiting to be stewed. But what am I going to do? Leave the country? How long will it take him to move on from England? His thoughts rushed into each other, blurring at the seams.

What am I going to do? I don't want to die!

.

"Expecto Patronum!" the examiner clapped enthusiastically as the silver stag galloped the length of the room.

"Well done Mr. Potter! Well done! I do believe that deserves an O! Excellent!"

James gave a cocky bow, exiting through a side door, NEWTs were so overrated.

He met up with the other Marauders, sans Peter, upon exiting the room, all of them laid back and unimpressed.

"You'll be the only one not to get an O mate," Sirius said, "Unless you did get an O?"

James nodded, "Knocked her socks off."

Emma grinned, "We should get on our way then, Transfiguration is tomorrow."

Sirius groaned, "Come on Swift, just one night to chill!"

Emma shot him a withering look, "If you fail your NEWTs don't come crying to me!"

Sirius groaned again as she stalked off, bag thrown over her shoulder, "For fuck's sake, if she has to study we should all just pack it in – there is no was I can one up the wandless! Merlin's pants this isn't fair! Lumping us all in with her and expecting us to pass! Honest to hell's fire!"

Remus and James exchanged a smirk as Sirius followed Emma, grumbling and whining the whole way.

"He is so pathetic," James sighed, adjusting his bag on his shoulder.

"You're preaching to the choir."

"What?"

"Never mind – muggle thing."

James frowned, "It didn't come up in your diary though?"

"IT'S A JOURNAL!"

.

.

.

Peter watched his friends on the map, saw each of their dots amble around the castle. He was still indecisive on what he was going to do about the war, still cowering and fretting.

He jumped as a black owl with evil red eyes swooped and landed beside him, talons wrapped around a black scroll.

With wide eyes and shaking fingers Peter took the scroll, jumping back once and licking his lips when the owl screeched. His hands were shaking so bad that it took him a moment to unfurl the parchment; but when he did he was greeted by elegant red script.

Peter Pettigrew,

I am writing to offer you a chance at safety. It has come to my attention that you are in possession of valuable information and that you are an accomplished Potioneer. I would be willing to offer you a position, not only of safety, but also of great importance among my most inner group of Death Eaters.

If you are agreeable one of my most trusted followers will meet you in Hogsmead on June 23 at midnight. You are to bring no one with you and to send your acceptance back with the owl.

Awaiting your decision,

Lord Voldemort.

Peter felt his mouth run dry. You-Know-Who was trying to recruit him. Him, Peter Pettigrew, that idiot boy who couldn't so much as levitate a tea cup! He was being acknowledged as 'an accomplished Potioneer' with 'valuable information'. It was more then anyone had every given Peter credit for and not only that, but he was guaranteed safety!

He froze then, what would happen if he refused? Would He come after Peter?

Yes. His mind answered him easily, There really isn't much choice.

And there wasn't, there was no more hope for Peter to just disappear; he could either join Him, betraying everyone or join the Order, which he now knew would fall.

With trembling hands Peter searched his bag for a quill and ink, scribbling a shaky yes onto the bottom of the parchment before giving it back to the owl which flew off immediately.

Regret hit him hard the moment the bird had gone. Regret and guilt. What am I going to do if the others find out?

The others. Peter felt his eyes widen, landing on the map with horror, if the others knew…

Peter didn't think about his next move; he just acted! Scooping the map up he fled the common room, throwing the portrait open and sprinting down the corridor

"Could have been a bit more considerate!" The fat Lady hollered after him indignantly but Peter ignored her, too panicked to think about anything but his destination.

He had to get rid of the map, had to make it so that the others couldn't follow his movements on it, but where?

And suddenly the answer was simple, Filch. He'd been after them since first year, had been trying for ages to catch them. All he had to do with give Filch the map, to tell him it was the secret to their success…

But would Filch believe him? No, probably not. So what was he going to do? He couldn't destroy it, not after all the time they had spent on it, and even then, Emma and Remus had used so many protective spells… no, Filch was his best bet.

He slid to a halt in front of Peeves, the poltergeist turning to look at him with a mad gleam in his eyes. Of all the Marauders Peter was the only one who hadn't fully earned Peeves's respect. Peter licked his lips, attempting to side-step the ghost, but Peeves blocked him.

"Ickle mousy running off with the mapmaker's map?" He cackled, "I wonder what Wandy and Loopy would have to say?"

"I-I've got something to do Peeves, please let me by."

"Something to do, says you? Not for a price, says I."

"I…" Peter stuttered, having nothing of importance to give the poltergeist. "Y-you want s-some information?" He tried, inventing a story wildly. Clearly You-Know-Who thought he was knowledgeable, why not Peeves?

Peeves seemed to consider the offer, suddenly he swooped downwards, stopping not an inch from Peter's petrified face, "Information, hum? What could Ickle Wormy know that Peevesee don't? Maybe he knows who pulled the prank and blamed Peevesee, and maybe he don't. That's my price Wormtail, give me the name of my blamer."

Peter gulped, knowing exactly what Peeves was on about. About two nights ago Remus had set a box of Filbuster Fireworks off in the Astronomy Tower, only Peeves had caught the blame. But he couldn't sell out Remus! A fellow Marauder!

"Give me namsees or I'll tell Wandy you was walking out alone," Peeves threatened.

Peter gulped again, what was he going to do? The note in his pocket burned and Peter's eyes hardened, it was their fault he was in this mess. So what did it matter if Peeves was mad at Remus? What difference did it make so long as he got passed Peeves?

"I-it w-was Remus," he stuttered out. "Remus set the fireworks off – P-please let me by!"

Peeves bristled, "Loopy?" He questioned, eyes wide with disbelief, then, suddenly, he zoomed out of the room, making a rude noise as he went.

"LOONY LOOPY LUPIN! LOONY LOOPY LUPIN! LOONY LOOPY LUPIN!"

Peter exhaled as Peeves left, straightening his bag on his shoulder as he began down the hall again, this time slower and more thoughtfully.

He had to think of a way to make Filch trust him, something he could trade… Peter sighed, if only he knew how to clear Filch's door… and then it hit him, because, once again, it was so simple!

Peter had been unsure what to do, because he didn't want Filch to watch him on the map either, but if he only showed the caretaker how to close the map and not how to open it…

Peter hurried forward, knocking once on Filch's door. Within moments it had opened, the scraggly caretaker looking down at Peter with narrowed eyes.

"What are you up to Marauder?" He growled, eyes darting down the hall, clearly looking for the other Marauders.

"I brought you a gift."

.

.

.

A week later saw breakfast in the Great Hall bombarded by owls. The Ministry was sending out acceptances and refusals for programs, and owls of every colour, with glittering Ministry collars, were flitting down to the seventh years.

James ripped his scroll open as soon as the owl landed, eyes scamming the scroll. He whooped, leaning across the table to high five Sirius, who was also grinning from ear to ear.

They were in, come the end of school they'd be training to be Aurors!

Lily grinned, seeing her acceptance to the Healer program, she looked up at Emma who forced a smile for her friends benefit.

"You weren't accepted?" Lily whispered in horror, realizing immediately what was wrong.

Emma shook her head, "No."

"Why?" Sirius asked, automatically defensive, "You're NEWTs?"

"No, apparently I got top grades – thank god – they simply can't take the risk of a wandless on the force," she sighed, "Ah, well. You lot got in, that's something to be grateful for."

"Yeah," Sirius felt a grin creep onto his face, "But Swift-" The grin plummeted, eyes scrunching up in distaste.

"Be happy Padfoot," Emma cut him off, rolling her eyes, "This is huge."

Despite her false joy, Emma was in silent turmoil. It had not escaped her that she was going to have to find a job somewhere. But where? Who in their right mind was going to hire a wandless? And when was she going to go looking for this job? After hunting the wandless? She shook her head; Sirius had made things intentionally complicated for her.

"The Ball is booked for the second last night of term," Lily informed them, "The 28th. I hear all the Ministry officials will be there."

"Along with half my relatives," Sirius rolled his eyes, "These things always turn into pureblood galas; so get excited!"

Remus snorted at Sirius's facial expression, "It could be worse Padfoot."

"Says you."

.

.

.

Peter stood fretfully in Hogsmead a week later. The night was uncommonly chilly, as if the wind itself was trying to usher him back inside. The wind felt strange, otherworldly, as if it had a purpose.

Then, suddenly, he was being faced by white teeth and deep brown eyes. The person in front of him was still young, perhaps a year or two older then him, with white-blond hair. He was extremely handsome, so much so that he would have made Sirius look plain.

"You must be Peter Pettigrew, the Marauder," a shockingly white grin followed the melodic voice. "We have much to discuss."

"W-who are y-you?" Peter stuttered.

Another grin, "You can call me Michael." Michael frowned, head turned upwards, towards the sky, "Let's get inside, this wind is not mine."

"W-what do y-you mean?" Peter jittered, following Michael's long strides.

"Nothing to concern yourself with, now come on, keep up."

.

.

.

The night of the ball found Emma sitting in front of the vanity mirror in her dorm unhappily. Alice had already deemed her attire for the night acceptable and had gone on to do her make-up. Now Emma was sitting impatiently while her roommate did her hair.

"You know," Alice began, in a tone of superiority, "Most people would thank me for doing their hair."

"Most people don't get hexed into a chair by Lily and then have you undo all their hard work. What was wrong with the way I had my hair done?"

"Let me think, maybe it was the fact that it looked exactly the same as every other day," Alice said around a hairpin.

"So?"

"So, this is a ball, you have to look perfect!"

Emma rolled her eyes, ignoring the glare Alice shot her, "I looked fine."

"You looked normal!"

"So?"

"So Sirius is going to be there," Alice smirked as Emma turned beet red, "Now shut up and let me work."

"Where is Lily anyways?" Emma asked in desperation, watching as Alice rolled another curl into her hair.

"I believe she is busy making gifts for all of her teachers."

"Oh… We made something for Dumbledore," Emma said.

"We, meaning the Marauders?"

"Yeah."

"What'd you make him?"

"A jar of vomit flavoured Every Flavour Beans," Emma grinned at Alice's horrified look.

"How did you know what flavour they were?" Alice asked in disgust, did they lick them?

"We have our ways," Emma said with a smirk, remembering Remus's rather handy trick of being able to smell the difference between beans when he was in werewolf form – That had been a long night.

Alice shivered, spraying the last curl in place, "Alright, you're done," she said, "And might I add that I can work miracles."

Emma looking in the mirror seriously, looking at the perfect bun and textbook curls, "It's amazing Alice."

"I know, now, we're all done so let's get going," she smiled, her own hair pulled up with incredible elegance, the blue in her dress complimenting her eyes. "We've got lots of people to impress with our dancing," she smirked.

"Shut up Alice," Emma grumbled getting up.

.

Sirius stood in the entrance hall with the other Marauders, Lily and Ricky. They were waiting for the other women to descend; Lily had changed in the Head's Room.

"You look nervous Sirius," Ricky said with a smirk. "Expecting someone?"

"Watch it Valentine."

"Ricky," Ricky expounded, "Valentine is such a ridiculous name."

Sirius grinned, remembering that this was close to the first words Ricky had ever really said to him, way back in fourth year, "What are you doing when this is over Ricky?"

Ricky grinned, "Order, parents are already in it. As for my occupation? Not sure, not many people are willing to hire a half-breed."

"I know how you feel," Remus said with a sigh.

Ricky grunted, looking depressed before he caught site of the stairs. He smirked, "Don't look now Sirius, but I think your lady's arrived."

Ricky chuckled as Sirius's head turned on a swivel, eyes bugging. Despite the length, the robes Emma wore was so very her; not a frill or piece of lace to be scene.

"Boys," she greeted them with a smile, "Lily."

"Swift," Sirius grinned widely at her.

Emma blushed; she wished that he didn't look so handsome; it was making her heart race.

Dumbledore came out of the Great Hall then, facing all of the gathered seventh years. "We will all be entering together, please arrange yourselves into two lines, boys on the left and girls on the right." There was a brief pause while everyone organized themselves. "Excellent! When we enter you will sit in the first two rows, listen to my speech and then be given the chance to mingle with the business people here. If you would all follow me," he turned, the hall doors opening as he did.

Emma gasped at all of the people who were already crammed into the hall, sitting in rows. There had to be at least 400! Sirius grabbed her hand, sending her a reassuring smile and Emma shook herself, get a grip!

The Marauders and Lily all sat together, finding smiles on their faces as Dumbledore stood before them. "Tonight marks one of the last that we shall all be in this hall together and for that I am sorry. It has been an interesting seven years and I am honoured to have been your Headmaster. Each of you has left your mark on the school," here his twinkling eyes found the Marauders, "Some more permanent then others."

Many students laughed, shooting the five friends grins. "You have all done your Houses proud. I hope to see each of you in the future, to see your names lighting up street corners. No matter what you go into the world to do, I am proud to have had the honour of meeting you and learning from you. I would like you all to remember that Hogwarts is your home, not just now, but forever. I look forward to the day when your own children race down our corridors, preferably, not on brooms." Again the students laughed, looking towards the Marauders who were grinning with pride. "To the Graduating class of 1978!"

A tremendous roar hit the hall, all of the students jumping from their seats and clapping, tears streaming down several faces.

With a flick of his wand, Dumbledore had all of the chairs part to the outside of the room, music beginning to play softly.

"May I have this dance?" Sirius requested, eyes beaming.

Emma couldn't fight the smile on her face, "I would love to."

Sirius looked mildly surprised, but didn't question her, instead leading them both into a dance that matched the slow tempo. He frowned as Emma swirled with him elegantly without so much as a faltering step. "You're cheating," he accused.

Emma smirked, "Wandless."

"Marauder," he argued with a rogue smile.

Lily and James weren't far away, both taking bets on when they thought the two Marauders would finally get together.

"Not until she comes back," Lily placed her bid, watching them with a smile, "Though I wish it could be sooner."

"If he let's her leave," James corrected.

Lily sighed, "Nothing's going to stop her James, I thought you would have been able to see that."

"I do, but I don't think she'll be going alone, I don't think he'll let her."

Lily frowned, "The two of them off on a wild adventure together? This could get interesting."

Emma felt horrible, deep down, because she was being selfish again. Her mind and her heart were constantly at war over Sirius and at the moment her heart was winning, leading her around in an elegant dance she should have refused.

She wondered if Sirius knew how hard it was to resist him? Merlin she was getting so soft it was almost a crime! What had happened to her stubborn mind? Where was it? Why was it letting some mushy music overrule it?

She was very much in danger of giving into him in this moment, of pushing her lips to his, oh Merlin she needed a distraction!

"Mind if I cut in?"

Both of their heads snapped around to see a man almost as tall as Sirius looking down at Emma, a wide smile on his lips. He wore elegant dress robes, though there was something in his eyes that made Emma think they weren't his proffered attire. Despite all of this, she had the aching suspicion that she had seen him before…

"Sure," Sirius said, offering her hand to the man.

The man took her hand with a small nod to Sirius, leading Emma in a dance that kept them further apart. "I'm sorry to have interrupted your dance," the man said, brown eyes sparkling as he blew a lock of redish brown hair from his face, "But I've been itching to have a word with you for a few days now. Of course I could have sent an owl, but this seems better," he grinned again and Emma could tell he was bursting with excitement, as if he had just found buried treasure. "My name is Reginald Wood and I Captain The Westmont Tornadoes."

Emma felt her eyes widen, "That's where I saw you!" She blushed at her outburst, "Sorry, I just knew I'd seen you somewhere. I was at a game over the summer and a friend of mine plays on the team."

"Robert Bell," Wood nodded, "When we lost our seeker this past summer, Bell was determined we got you as a replacement and after having seen you play this year I have to agree. I guess you could call this a formal offer to join The Westmont Tornadoes as our seeker."

Emma felt her mouth pop open in shock, "I-I-"

Wood cut her off, "There's a catch of course," he said looking sheepish, "What with you being a wandless the Ministry has some… stipulations."

"Stipulations?" Emma questioned.

Wood grimaced, "Velspar."

Emma felt her gut hit the floor, her mind and heart screaming in protest immediately. Velspar – the cutter. At least that was what it felt like, like being cut off from a piece of her soul.

Wood must have seen the disgust on her face because he began explaining quickly, "Not as much as Umbridge gave you – not even half! Just enough to bring you down to Wizard levels."

Emma was still sceptical, "I… I'm not sure I can take… that again."

Wood frowned, "If you can't take it I'll find someone else, maybe Sims – but from what I've seen you have serious potential, wandless or not and the pay's good. Real good, like millionaire good."

"I," Emma paused, unwilling to take Velspar but being aware that she needed the money, "I'll try."

Wood grinned, "Excellent. We're out of the running this year; but we can get you tested for Velspar the week you get back, after that training starts in March – so you'll have plenty of time for that mission of yours," he winked at Emma's dumbfounded expression. "I'm in the Order; Dumbledore's told us all about what you're going to do."

The dance ended and Wood stepped back, "I'll owl you the details, but do we have a deal Dill?"

Emma shook Wood's hand without hesitation, "For the time being at least and I'm honoured that you thought of me for the post."

Wood smirked, "You should be. Well now that that's out of the way, I have to get my hands on Valentine, that boy's got an arm – excuse me."

Emma gave a nod of her head as Wood left, making her way towards Sirius and Remus who were sitting at a table and discussing something.

"I don't know if the others will go for it Padfoot," Remus was saying, butterbeer in hand.

"Why not?" Sirius asked, sitting back elegantly. "I think it sounds great."

"Well yes, it was your idea," Remus smirked, turning to Emma as she sat between them. "What do you say to going camping in a week, just us Marauders and Lily?"

Emma thought it over before nodding, "It sounds like a good idea, one last go before I leave."

"Speaking of leaving," Sirius curbed the conversation out of such dangerous waters. "What did that bloke want?"

"That was Reginald Wood, Captain of the Westmont Tornadoes," Emma said, suddenly feeling nervous. "He offered me a job."

Remus choked on his butterbeer and Sirius's eyes bugged, "Really?"

Emma nodded, "Yeah… the only thing is I'll have to take Velspar, I told him I'd see, that I wasn't sure I could handle it."

Sirius frowned, "But that's dangerous – like really dangerous."

Emma shrugged, "I said I'd see, maybe they've managed to alter it; I'm not sure."

"Either way I'm happy for you Swift," Remus smiled, "That's quite an honour."

Emma exhaled loudly, "Yeah, it is," she looked stunned at the turn of events and again Sirius turned the conversation onto something more frivolous.

"So, detentions, I have the most," he puffed himself up as he said it, causing Emma to roll her eyes.

"You're ahead of me by one," she said.

"But it only takes one to win, Swifty," Sirius teased, eyes sparkling with suppressed mirth,

"I hate you."

"Oh I can't wait to move in with you two," Remus said wistfully. "Arguments over tea, flying frying pans at breakfast, Wilberforce eating Padfoot's underwear-"

"Doesn't he already do that?" Emma asked.

Sirius looked confused, "Is that where they're all going?" He frowned as Remus nodded, "Huh."

"Either way it will be a new adventure," Emma said with a smile, lifting her bottle. "To a new beginning?"

"To a new beginning," Sirius and Remus agreed, tapping bottles with her. Peter crept over then, fidgeting continually.

"Hey Wormy, how've you been?" Sirius asked, grabbing Peter a butterbeer from a passing House elf.

"G-good, y-you P-padfoot?"

Sirius shrugged, "'Ight I suppose. Swift just got a Quidditch invite, isn't that great?"

"Amazing," Peter forced a grin, but Emma and Remus saw right through it.

"Are you alright Wormtail?" Emma asked gently, laying a hand on Peter's shoulder.

"F-fine, w-why do you ask?"

"Well you're a bit jittery," Emma said, "Did something happen?"

Peter shook his head frantically, eyes wide, "N-nothing! You worry too much Swift," he grinned. "M-must be going," he stood hurriedly and left, his butterbeer still on the table.

Emma frowned at it, "I wonder what's wrong with him."

"It's Wormtail, something's always wrong with him," Sirius answered her.

Emma shook her head, "Something's more wrong then normal."

"I'll keep an eye on him," Remus volunteered, "Make sure he hasn't gotten shit from the Slytherins."

"Thank you Moony," Emma said, knowing that it would be better if one of the boys dealt with Peter's dilemma.

"No problem."

.

Severus watched from the corner of the room while Lily and James danced elegantly. She was so beautiful, her emerald eyes so filled with joy. How had Potter managed it? How had he lost so thoroughly? Severus's eyes never left her spinning form. Everything changed after tonight. He would be a fully fledged Death Eater; she would no doubt join the Order of the Phoenix. He wished things had been different, that she was still his…

"Nothing's changed," Lucius said from beside him, sipping a glass of wine. "The place is still infested."

"Yes it is," Severus agreed, his eyes flitting to Potter. If only Potter were dead… "How much do favours cost in our circle?"

Lucius's eyes followed Severus's, "Depends on your position. Give it two or three months of loyalty and you can have whatever you want – even if it is a filthy mudblood."

Severus nodded, watching entranced as Lily laughed, her eyes sparkling.

I won't give up on us…

.

.

.

Lily was up early the next morning, putting the last touches on her gift for Slughorn. She'd enchanted a lily petal to turn into a fish for him, hopefully he'd like it. She dropped it off in his classroom before hurrying up to the Gryffindor common room. She snuck passed Emma easily, who was staring out of one of the windows, making her way into the boy's dorm.

James was already awake and waiting for her, the two of them exiting the tower together silently. They made their way towards the lake, sitting under the shade of the Beach tree together.

"Graduation is today," Lily murmured, entwining her fingers with James's.

"I know; guess I'll finally get to meet your family," he smiled.

Lily's smile wavered, "Where will you go tomorrow?"

James sighed, running a hand through his hair, "To one of the apartments we – I – own in London. I'll have to clean Potter Manor out eventually, but for now I'm leaving it alone."

Lily nodded, "I hate the idea of you being alone," she whispered. "If you ever need anything-"

"I'll know where to go," James smiled. "Don't worry, I'm not that far from Sirius and the others… besides, I was sort of hoping, that after a month or so… that maybe you'd join me?"

Lily's jaw dropped in shock. "I mean you don't have to!" James backtracked quickly. "I just thought that maybe-"

He stopped as Lily cut him off with a kiss, "I would love to James," she smiled. "Just give me a few weeks to smooth it over with my parents."

"Really?"

Lily nodded at James's huge grin, loving the way his hazel eyes lit up behind his glasses. "I love you James."

James's grin seemed to widen, if that was possible, "I love you more."

Moments later had them leaving the lake to get ready for graduation. When Lily got back into the dorm Emma was already dressed in her red graduation uniform, grumbling that it made her look like a fire hydrant. Lily didn't comment, knowing the red wouldn't be doing anything for her either – red hair mixed with red cloths was almost always a disaster.

Marlene could be seen doing her make-up in the vanity; Alice was jumping in excitement. Lily smirked, remembering that Frank would be at the ceremony, no wonder Alice was so excited. The couple hadn't seen each other since the last Hogsmead weekend.

After several moments they were ready, descending the stairs to meet the boys who were also garbed in the House colours. They exchanged hellos before making for the Great Hall, where they once again waited for Dumbledore to lead them in.

Emma could hear the chatter of hundreds of excited adults and her heart panged, remembering that her parents were not among them. James looked equally upset, no doubt he was thinking the same thing as her. Emma felt her gut clench as Dumbledore appeared before them, ushering them into alphabetical order. She found herself behind the blue robes of Ravenclaw, Charlie Dar before the doors were opened and they were all being ushered inside.

The Great Hall was hung with banners for each House, the Sorting Hat positioned on the stool at the front. Emma had a sudden flashback to her own sorting and a smile pulled at her lips. It had been a long time since she'd been eleven years old, since she had asked the hat not to put her in Gryffindor. She felt tears on her cheeks, she was so glad the Hat hadn't listened to her.

Dumbledore had them seat themselves in the first two rows, and then the brim of the Hat opened, and it began to speak, "I never sang when your year was sorted, instead I gave advice. I wonder if any of you can remember what I said, either way I stand by it to this day. Generally I am most known for my tunes of lyric, but listen to my advice for once I pray thee. What is the difference, I ask, between the Granny Smith apple and the Macintosh? The Werewolf and the Wizard, the Wizard and the Wandless, the Wandless and the Witch, the Witch and the Vampire, the Vampire and the Muggle? Nothing and everything, neither is good nor evil, all is simply as it is. A few ruff edges all may have, but a heart of gold all also may keep. Do not judge a book by its cover; instead judge it by the pages it keeps locked away. Remember this students and teachers, take my advice; whether you be the brave Gryffindor wherein the lion dwells, a soaring and bright eagle of Ravenclaw, or the good and loyal badger of Hufflepuff… and maybe, just maybe, even the slithering snake of Slytherin could put differences aside for just a small while… we all know that war is lurking around the corner, stand tall and strong, keep those with extra talents near, or we will crumble from within."

The Hat's speech ended and Emma clapped with everyone else, wondering if it would normally sing the sorting song it had picked for their sorting year, or if they were just an exception.

Dumbledore took the stand then, "Seven years have passed," he said, arms spread wide, as if he could embrace them all. "Seven years of Magic, Study, Quidditch, Clubs, and yes, Pranks. I am always amazed with how fast Hogwarts students grow up, with how short seven years really is. In a moment you will all come up, take your diploma and NEWT marks and then tomorrow you shall leave Hogwarts. But I hope that you always keep Hogwarts with you, no matter where you go and I hope to one day see your children roam our halls." He smiled, "If you would all stand and step forward, it is time."

The seventh years rose, walking towards the stage in their line.

"Of Ravenclaw, Abbott, Tobby," Dumbledore called the first student, saying a few things to him, before calling, "Of Gryffindor, Black, Sirius."

The line got shorter and shorter, eventually "Of Gryffindor, Dill, Emma," was called and Emma found herself facing the Headmaster.

"Thank you for everything, Sir," she said, tears in her eyes.

Dumbledore's eyes twinkled, "It is I who should be thanking you and the other Marauders, for bringing seven years of joy to this castle, when it needed it most."

Emma nodded, "Thank you Sir," she choked out, taking her diploma and standing at the back of the stage beside Charlie Dar.

When every graduate had been called and was standing Dumbledore once again addressed them all. "I ask that you all please join me in singing the School Song."

Emma laughed as Dumbledore flicked his wand, pink ribbon rising to form words which she quickly picked a tune for.

"Hogwarts, Hogwarts, Hoggy Warty Hogwarts,

Teach me something please,

Whether we be old and baled

Or young with scabby knees,

Our heads could do with filling

With some interesting stuff,

For now they're bare and full of air,

Dead flies and bits of fluff,

So teach us things worth knowing,

Bring back what we've forgot,

Just do your best, we'll do the rest,

And learn until our brains all rot."

Everyone finished at a different time, Sirius and James bringing up the end with a choral verse. When the song had finished Dumbledore spoke once again, "I give you the graduates of 1978!"

The adults stood and clapped, the seventh years all screaming at the top of their lungs, hats flying into the air. People were crying, hugging each other, yelling in joy. The emotions in the room were insane. The Marauders found each other quickly, smiles on every face and tears on a few.

"Happy graduation you lot, I didn't think we'd make it," James said, holding his hand out for anyone to shake.

Sirius took it, bringing James in for a quick hug, "I didn't honestly think you'd pass either Prongs."

"Oh shove off," James muttered, though he was hugging Sirius back.

Emma wasn't sure, but she thought they might both be crying.

"Alright you two," Remus said, thumping them both on the back, "Enough of that, you're ruining your images."

"You're right," Sirius pulled back, his face scrunched up. "Stop crying Prongs," he said, wiping his own face.

"I wasn't crying, you were," James snapped back, dragging his hand under his glasses.

They both turned to Peter as he began bawling, "I don't want to leave!"

The Marauders exchanged looks before bursting into laughter, grabbing Peter into an awkward group hug.

"It's alright Worms."

"Yeah, don't worry, you can always visit us."

"And we can still pull pranks all the time."

It took several minutes for them to pull themselves together, but eventually they were all in working order. Remus and Peter went off to see their parents, James going to meet Lily's folks. Sirius and Emma went for a short walk, neither of them having to be anywhere. They stood just outside the school, watching the younger students amble around in the sunshine.

For Emma the moment was magnified, Hogwarts was all she had left, it was the first place she'd ever been sub-normal. Hogwarts had forced her to conquer her fears, had led her to her friends and moulded who she was. She almost didn't remember the rule abiding eleven year old who had made the boat ride across the Black Lake.

"Everything is changing now," she said, once again staring towards the forbidden forest.

"Not everything," Sirius said. "We're just having a change in scenery."

Emma chuckled, "Do you remember our first year?"

"You mean back when you were afraid of heights, Moony thought we'd desert him and my mother still sent me howlers?" Sirius grinned, "How could I forget?"

"It's odd to think it's all over, that we won't be coming back."

Sirius wrapped an arm around her, "Hogwarts isn't going anywhere, we can always come back."

They both turned around as the other Marauders exited the castle, followed by the Lupins, Pettigrews and Evans.

"We need to take a group picture," Remus said, camera in his hands, "To remember the moment."

"I'll take it," Mr. Lupin offered, taking the camera, "You six get together."

"Here, you get up on my back," Sirius told Emma, bending over. "And Lily up on James."

Emma rolled her eyes before climbing up, Sirius grabbing her knees. Remus stood beside Sirius with a smirk and Emma swatted him in the head, glaring as he chuckled. James was on Sirius's other side; Lily on his back, smiling widely. Peter stood to James's left.

"Say Nargels!" Mr. Lupin said.

A click and a flash signalled that the photo had been taken and that they, the Marauders, would be together forever, at least in the photo.

"We're very proud of all of you," Mrs. Lupin said, trying to hug them all at once. "How are your NEWTs? Did you check yet?"

"Not yet, Mrs. Lupin," Sirius said with a smile.

"Ah well, you graduated – and made the Auror program from what Remus tells me, well done!"

Sirius blushed scarlet.

"We also heard about you," Mr. Lupin said, eyeing Emma with worry, "I beg you not to go alone."

Emma forced a smile, "I am not willing to share the burden," she replied.

Mr. Lupin frowned, but let the matter pass, turning to let Lily introduce her parents. Mr. Evans had red hair and pale blue eyes, a permanent smile seemingly fixed on his face. Beside him, Mrs. Evans was blond with Lily's striking green, almond shaped eyes. She too looked happy, though it was obvious the absence of her eldest child was bothering her.

"Petunia couldn't make it unfortunately," she said sadly. "I am sorry, she's truly missed out."

"That's alright mum," Lily said easily, "Toony will come around."

After a few minutes of catch up the Marauders and Lily departed, making for the dorms so that they could get ready for the leaving feast.

When Emma and Lily entered the dorm it was to find Marlene crying, letters held to her chest.

"Marls, what?" Lily seemed shocked.

"I-I m-miss t-th-them s-s-s-so m-much," Marlene sobbed, and Emma caught sight of Mary's handwriting. "T-th-they sh-sh-should h-have b-b-been h-here."

It was like a blow to the chest. After everything, all of the day's festivities, in the end only four of six Gryffindor girls had graduated. Lily rushed forwards, tears streaming down her face as she comforted Marlene but Emma simply thumped onto her bed, suddenly exhausted.

Mary and Joyce were dead, had she almost forgotten? She broke down and cried with the others; Alice joining in when she entered the dorm.

How was it that simple memories could hurt so much? She felt like she'd been hit was Crucio at least, her chest aching.

"We have to do it for them," she said after some time, "Have to beat him for them."

"And how do you plan on doing that?" Marlene shot at her, "What's the master plan wandless?"

"I don't have a plan," Emma said, wiping her eyes and getting up. "But I'm not going to let him win. I'm not going to sit here doing nothing when he's still out there, killing more people.

We've graduated, we're of age and nothing is stopping us… stopping me," she inhaled deeply. "We're going to win."

Marlene stood, "You're an idiot Dill, stubborn, volatile, strange and proud; but you better not be just saying that, because I'll hold you to it."

"I never break a promise," Emma said. "And I may dislike you McKinnon, but if we join the Order together, you better not get yourself killed."

Marlene smirked, "Watch your back Dill, or I might take all the glory."

"I'd like to see you try."

They changed quickly after that, leaving the tower together and making for the Great Hall.

Clash, bing, bang, BOOM!

"Son of a bitch!" Emma swore loudly as her knee collided with the edge of the Gryffindor table, half the cutlery falling onto the stone floor.

"DILL!" Emma looked up to see McGonagall smirking in triumph, "Detention – for vulgar language, to be served as soon as the feast is over."

Emma felt her jaw drop in anger, before a grin crept onto her face…

She had just tied with Sirius.

She took her seat at the table between Sirius and Remus, grinning like an idiot. "I just tied with you," she informed Sirius, watching as his eyes bugged.

"Of for Merlin's sake!" He growled, clearly intending to say more but Dumbledore cut him off.

"Another year has come and gone, and what a wonderful year it had been," he said, addressing the hall at large. "As I am sure you can see, Ravenclaw has once again taken the House Cup with 500 points, followed closely by Slytherin with 450 points. Hufflepuff is third with 430 points and finally Gryffindor, with 303 points," the hall chuckled, turning to face the Marauders. "I would also like to take this moment to thank whoever dropped off the jar of vomit flavoured beans in my office; I have once and for all been turned off the sweet," again the hall chuckled, and Dumbledore turned to x-ray the Marauders, "Now, enjoy the feast!"

The Marauder had almost made it to out of the Great Hall when the feast finished, but Dumbledore called them over. "I would like a word in my office," he said, standing from the table, "Please follow me."

They walked through the castle silently, taking a seat when they entered. Every head swivelled to Emma as she laughed.

"Something amusing Emma?" Dumbledore asked, taking his own seat with a smile.

Emma nodded, "I just remembered, that in first year only one chair stood before your desk constantly, and that I always sit in the same chair now," she smiled, "Just reminiscing I suppose Sir."

Sirius looked around once, stunned, before beginning to laugh as well – she was right, there were always five chairs in the Headmasters office, waiting for them.

Dumbledore chuckled, "Yes, I might as well put name plates on the chairs, you five always do sit in the same chair, I'm not sure you've realized," he pointed to the chair on the furthest left, "Peter sits there, then Remus, yourself, Sirius, and James," his eyes twinkled once, before his expression sobered. "I would wager, that you five know what I want to discuss with you?"

"The vomit flavoured beans?" Sirius ventured, wincing when he got shushed on all sides.

Dumbledore hid a laugh with a cough before speaking, "No, though that is an interesting point. I am here to discuss the Order of the Pheonix with you; it has come to my attention that you five may wish to join."

"Sir," James nodded, shifting his glasses up his nose and sitting straighter, "It would be an honour-"

"It is not an honour." Dumbledore cut James off, his eyes x-raying everyone in the room. "There is honour in what we, the Order, do, but joining us should not be seen as a great achievement. Voldemort is strong, going up against him is nothing short of a death wish."

"But if people don't fight, the war is lost," Remus argued. "I'm not giving up yet!"

"I am not saying that you five cannot join, nor that you shouldn't," Dumbledore explained, "I am simply expressing upon you the dangers of joining. There is a chance that you might die; that your friends might die; that we might lose this war."

"Sir," Sirius cut off the Headmaster, "I think you've just done an excellent job of outlining why we want to join. Sitting under our beds and cowering, Voldemort and his followers could come and kill us, or a friend might be murdered, or the war might be lost and then we're all doomed. If we fight we have the chance to make a difference, and that's worth something."

"Fighting will put you on the front lines, Sirius," Dumbledore said calmly, "I hope you understand that."

"With all do respect Sir," Emma cut in, "We're pretty much all on the front line already."

Dumbledore nodded his head, "That is true. The next Order meeting will take place on the 10th of July, I expect anyone wishing to join our ranks to be at 118 Witching Hall by 11 o'clock at night. You are to tell no one this information, those I have deemed trustworthy have already been informed individually. If you have any questions or concerns, now would be the time to voice them. If you have any doubts as to whether you should join, then I ask you do not turn up, the Order is not for the faint hearted."

Silence followed these words and so with a sigh Dumbledore sent them up to bed.

.

.

.

Breakfast the next morning found confetti falling from the ceiling and Filch being forced into a ballerina outfit for what would be the last time. It wasn't a very inventive prank, but it was a little something for the Marauders to be remembered by.

They got on the train later that day, all of them serious and all too quiet.

"It isn't the end," James said, though his voice was solemn.

"Prongs is right, this is a new beginning," Sirius piped up, "A new chapter, filled with magic, adventure and… err… interesting-er stuff!"

Remus chuckled, "Always the voice of reason, eh Padfoot?"

"You know it Moony."

Emma chuckled, "As long as we're together," she compromised, "I can live with just about anything."

"We'll always be together," James said with a laugh, "Always."

And they would always be together, in some ways at least. Their names would always appear side by side, Moony, Wormtail, Swift, Padfoot and Prongs. No matter what happened in the years after, these days would be remembered eternally, etched into the caretaker's door as proof; that once upon a time, five friends became family through acts of various mischief. That they would always be together, that their hearts would beat as one.

THE MARAUDERS

We Solemnly Swear That We Are Up To No Good

Moony Wormtail Swift Padfoot Prongs

(Here a variety of tallies were found)

Total Detentions:

706 1000 1200 1200 950

We, the Marauders, leave our mark here. Let it be known that these words cannot be removed. If the door is replaced then the words will move to occupy the new door.

We give our highest regards to Mr. Filch, Prof. McGonagall and Prof. Dumbledore, without whom these impressive numbers could never have been reached.

Mischief Managed!