A/N: This picks up right where the last chapter ended. Tissues are strongly recommended.

Thanks to my lone beta, ReineDansante, and my absent beta, Snowlily, and my nifty friends, Cquill13, Xaviera Xylira, and Hermione Gulliver. Love you all bunches! Yeah, this is part songfic…which is Mandy Moore's "It's Gonna Be Love". Enjoy.

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The Story of Lily

Say that you'll stay forever this way

Forever and forever, that we'll

Never have to change

Don't move,

Don't breath,

Don't change,

Don't leave

And promise me, say

You'll stay…

Oh, we'll stay

This way…

~Courtesy Jewel's "This Way"

Chapter Twenty: 'Till Death Do Us Part

The next three hours passed in a second for Lily. One moment she was sitting down, having the strange hairstylist putting her hair into soft ringlets and then pulling it up halfway under Katharine's critical eye, and then fitting the veil on. Then she was sitting back watching as the hairstylist pulled Celeste's dark brown hair, Hayley's golden blonde hair, and Gwen's black hair up, all in the same complicated twist. Next came makeup – Lily didn't put much on, just enough to accent her finest feature – her eyes – and cover up her small flaws. Then, when they could put it off no longer, the bridesmaids got into their dark green wedding robes.

"You all look stunning," Lily beamed at them. "Really gorgeous. You know, this reminds me-"

"Li-ly," Gwen interrupted sternly.

Lily heaved a sigh and turned around, where Ella was holding her gown. They went into the bathroom and the older woman helped Lily dress silently. When she was finished, Lily gazed into the mirror at herself. With the makeup and hair, she looked prettier than ever.

Is that woman really me? She wondered, peering at herself closely. She flicked a dark red ringlet out of her face and bit her lip.

Ella, tears streaming down her face, opened her mouth to say something, but nothing came out. She simply kissed Lily on both cheeks and left. Soon after, Celeste came in, smiling shyly.

"Lily, you look really pretty," she said honestly. "I'm super glad you picked me to be a bridesmaid."

Lily smiled and smoothed down Celeste's hair. "You're my sister just as much as Hayley and Gwen are, you know. The little sister I never had. I'm honored to have you as a bridesmaid."

Celeste smiled and hugged her tightly, and scampered out, wiping her teary eyes. Lily sat down to wait for the next person – Hayley. She walked in, already wiping her eyes, and shut the door. She dragged a chair over to Lily and sat down, taking her hands.

"Have you thought about how well 'Lily' and 'Potter' go together?" Hayley said first with a little laugh through her tears. "They go really, really well," her voice was getting higher and higher. "And I'm really happy for you, I am. Not just because your names go well together-" her voice broke, but she kept going, "-but because you go so well together."

"Thank you," Lily whispered, hugging her tightly. "And I wish more than anything that Mary Katherine could be here."

"She is," Hayley choked, a little sob racking her body. "She is, she is, I know it, and she doesn't blame you in the least."

"You knew her the best," said Lily, crying. "And she doesn't blame me?"

"No, not at all." She pulled back and reached for a tissue. She handed one to Lily and used one herself. "Luckily this makeup is water proof," she joked feebly.

Lily smiled, and Hayley squeezed her hand before leaving. Lily stood, knowing who was coming next – Gwen. She gave a little sob when she saw Lily, and they met each other in the middle in a silent hug. Both knew that trying to say all that needed to be said in the few minutes Lily had left was impossible.

"I don't deserve your friendship, Lily," she whispered. "I'm horrid compared to you."

"You do deserve it, Gwen," Lily whispered passionately back. "We may be opposites, but no one understands me more than you do. I love you, Gwen."

There they were. Those three words had always been there, but had never been said aloud. Gwen gave another sob.

"Oh, I love you too, Lily!"

How much longer they stayed there holding each other neither ever knew, but when Katharine came in, they knew it was time. Gwen grabbed a tissue and ducked out without looking at Lily, for which she was grateful – they would never have stopped bawling if that happened.

Katharine came over and straightened Lily's perfect gown, and then locked her brown eyes with Lily's green. Words passed through them unsaid; they were both victims of the Potter men's love – that was enough. As Lily hugged her, breathing in her scent, she suddenly understood – if James was killed, there was no way Lily could survive. A choked noise escaped her throat at that prospect, and Katharine, as if knowing what she was thinking, hugged her tighter.

Lily's thoughts were drawn to the subject she had tried so hard not to think of: Aunt Violet. It seemed so long ago that Violet had been alive, and she wondered: what would have happened to Lily's life if Violet hadn't been killed? Would Violet be walking her down the isle, or would Orion, instead of his son? They were the only parents Lily had known – what would she be like now if they hadn't been killed?

"Lily," Katharine whispered in her ear, and Lily came back to life rather abruptly. "Lily, you must call me 'mum' now, darling."

Lily suddenly had trouble breathing. Katharine went on, "Ever since I saw you and James dancing together at the Ministry Ball, back when you were eleven, I was reminded of myself. I too lost my mother and father at a young age, to the wizard Grindelwald, you know, and my heart went out to you. I wanted you to start calling me Mum right then and there, but didn't know you well enough."

Lily swallowed. "Don't leave us, please," she begged. "I've just got a mother, I don't want – I don't want her-"

"Lily, you must understand – I love Harry and James more than life, and this way, I can make peace with this world, knowing my James is safe in your arms, and be with my love, my husband, my life. You'll always be my daughter, Lily, and you and only you can understand the love we both share for the Potter men." She pulled back, a small smile on her face.

Lily smiled weakly too.

"There's a good girl. I'll give you a few moments alone, but only a few. I love you, Lily."

"I love you too – Mum."

Katharine left, the word 'mum' hanging in her wake. "Mum," Lily said again to herself. The word felt alien on her tongue, but she realized – she would rather call Katharine 'mum' than anyone else.

Lily dried her tears, thanked God for the water-proof magical makeup, and took a deep breath before sailing out of the door. She and the bridesmaids were escorted to a small tent. Lily got a glimpse of the isle and all the guests assembled, before disappearing inside it. Ella kissed her wordlessly and left, followed by Elizabeth and Katharine.

"Right, Gwen, you know what to do, you're leading the procession," Gwen said to herself, wringing her hands. "I can do this, I can do this. I've got your ring."

Lily smiled, "Go out there, girls. The music is about to start."

They left with fearful glances at her, and a whispered conversation ensued outside and then Sirius entered, his face pale. What little color was in it drained when he saw Lily.

"God, if I wasn't in love with Gwen…" he muttered, his dark eyes wide.

Lily giggled and held her arms out for a hug; he obliged, lifting her up and squeezing her tightly.

"You look spectacular, Lily. And my Gwennie designed this gown?" he marveled, holding her at arms length.

"Every stitch," Lily said proudly. Just then, the music Lily had chosen for the beginning of the wedding started, and Lily's already fast heart rate sped up. She grabbed Sirius's hand and squeezed it tightly.

"You're fine. I'm not fine, but you're fine," he said, breathing deeply.

The music ended too quickly in Lily's opinion, and soon, the first notes of The Bridal March came on. Lily threaded her arm through Sirius's, and together, they stepped out of the tent. She fixed a small smile on her face and nodded at the guests, who were looking at her emotionally, and then willed herself to look straight forward. Peter and Remus were standing off to the right of the gazebo, Gwen, Hayley, and Celeste off to the left. In the middle on the top step, grinning broadly, was Albus Dumbledore, and, just to his right, looking at Lily as if he were in a daze, was James. They locked eyes as he came forward, and Lily forced herself to look at Sirius next to her. A single tear dripped down his cheek as he lifted her veil, kissed her on the cheek, and put her hand in James's. A silent exchange went between the two men, and then Sirius stepped back behind James. James led Lily up the two stairs of the gazebo, standing before Dumbledore.

Lily knew she should listen to the words her old headmaster was saying, but her thoughts drifted to more "what-ifs". If Iris Evans hadn't died, would Petunia be standing with Lily's bridesmaids? Lily had invited her, but hadn't expected her to come or R.S.V.P., like the invitation asked. If Iris hadn't died, would he have walked her down the isle instead of Sirius? Would she have another little sibling?       

  She realized just in time that Dumbledore was speaking to her.

"Lily Carolyn, do you take this man, James William Potter, to be your lawfully wedding husband? To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live?"

It's gonna be love,

It's gonna be great

Lily locked eyes with James. "I do," she said quietly, steadily, and turned to Gwen. Gwen was holding the green pillow – the color of Lily's eyes and the bridesmaids' robes - with Lily's wedding band on it, and she handed Lily her wand. Lily tapped the golden band and said, "Adorus Totallus!"

It emitted a blinding gold light, just as it had done at the other two weddings Lily had been present at, and flew in front of Dumbledore, who beamed and turned to James.

It's gonna be more than I can take

"James William, do you take this woman, Lily Carolyn Evans, to be your lawfully wedding wife? To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live?"

"I do," he murmured, sending pleasant shivers over Lily, who gave him a small smile. He turned to Sirius, who, in turn, had to be prodded by Remus. He took out the green pillow, smiling sheepishly, and held James's wand out to him.

"Adorus Totalus!"

The light it emitted was just as blinding, and Lily felt her heart swell. It floated over to Dumbledore, who raised his wand.

It's gonna be free

It's gonna be real

"Ius Coniubium!" he cried, and the wedding bands sprang together. They were together for a full minute, in which titters went up from the crowd, but then pulled apart and traveled slowly to the correct finger.

"And now, with the power vested in me, I pronounce thee, Lily Carolyn and James William, man and wife!"

Lily smiled at James, who was smiling also. He looked up at Dumbledore.

"Oh, yes, Mr. Potter, you may kiss the bride," he said hastily, and the assembled chuckled.

James leaned in, still holding her hands, and they met in a sweet kiss that left Lily's lips tingly. They turned and smiled at everyone; there wasn't a dry eye.

It's gonna change everything I feel

Lily put her arm through James's and smiled adoringly at him, he kissed her swiftly again before they headed down the isle. Flower petals were showered on them, and they smiled happily, before lining up to greet the guests. Lily gave out so many hugs in the next thirty minutes and smiled so much she thought her face would split.

Finally they moved into the wedding tent area, but before they could drink or do anything, the photographer cornered them. They were set up and smiled happily into the camera. Then he got a shot of Lily and Sirius, Lily and Gwen, Lily and James, and James and Sirius. Finally he got one of the four of them together.

Hayley had tears in her eyes when they moved. "I want that picture."

Lily assured her she would get it, and then were escorted into the tent.

"Aha!" Minister Watson called, seeing them.

He whispered to the band, and the lead singer said loudly, "Now presenting, for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. James and Lily Potter!"

Lily and James beamed, and cameras flashed. The band struck up a waltz, and the newlyweds moved into the center of the floor. They began dancing, perfectly in tune, and soon others joined in, but to Lily and James, there was no one else in the world.   

It's gonna be sad

It's gonna be true

"I love you," he said intently, a piece of black hair falling into his brown eyes.

She reached her hand out and brushed it away. "I love you too."

"More than you can imagine, Lily," he continued, grabbing her hand. "More than life. When you said I would fall in love with you again seeing you in this gown, I didn't think it was possible. But it happened, Lily, it did…you're spectacular, you know."

Hearing it from Gwen was one thing. But hearing it from James was almost entirely different. "Thank you. James, I love you more than life too – your mum-" she stopped, her throat blocked. "Our mum, told me about how in love she is with Mr. Potter, enough that she'd die for him, and I know what she means. I'd die for you – I wouldn't hesitate-"

"I know," he whispered, wiping her eyes. "I know."

It's gonna be you're the one to do

They danced until they had to sit down for dinner. They joined their wedding party at a circular table on a raised platform, and enjoyed the lovely dinner of pork chops. Then it was time for Sirius and Gwen to make their speeches. They stood up together.

"Right, well," Sirius said, smiling at everyone, "This has definitely been one of the best days of my life. When Lily asked me to walk her down the isle…I really wondered what I'd done to deserve such a sister or whatever you'd call her. I think of her as a sister, at least. That, combined with being my best mate's Best Man made this perfect for me."

He stopped for a minute and then looked up at Lily and James. "When they broke up for a month, it seemed to me like the world was crumbling. They might not know it, but their relationship has been a sign to us that things can still go right these days."

It's gonna be hard,

It's gonna be tough

He looked at them and smiled. "I'm sorry; I didn't mean to be all serious like this. It isn't something I'm good at," he said to the guests, who chuckled. "And so, I say, may your love prosper and grow, and may you always be happy."

He picked up his champagne and saluted them. "Here, here!" the guests cried, and they clinked glasses. Sirius sat back down.

Gwen took a breath and smiled apologetically at James and Lily. "I'm sorry, but I'm going to have to be serious as well…I hope you don't mind. I knew Lily had feelings for James ages ago, back when they met for the first time. I love them both so very much, and it's been my secret desire to see them married. They've both suffered many losses, they've both suffered blows to their relationship, but it's only made their love stronger, in my opinion. Their marriage is a sign of what we all need to be now, united, in the face of these horrible times. I love you Lily, just as the sister I never had, and James, as the brother I never had. I'm honored to be your Maid of Honor, and may you always be happy together."

It's gonna be more than just enough

She raised her glass once more, and they drank to Lily and James again. Lily smiled through her tears and sipped some of her own champagne. The cake – butter-cream with almond – was brought in front of them; they stood.

"Here we go," Lily said, holding up the ornate silver knife. James put his hand on top of hers, and they sliced into the bottom layer of the cake. Onto a plate it went, and Lily took a piece with her fingers. "Open up," she grinned. He did so obediently, his eyes twinkling, and she popped the piece in.

"Mmm," he said, and gave the guests a thumbs up. Lily savored this moment – it was perfect. Music was playing lightly in the background, some people were chatting, some were watching, someone was flashing pictures…it was made even more perfect when she tasted her cake – even better than the sample piece had been those many months ago. She got a little bit of icing and wiped it on James's nose. He made a noise of protest, but got his revenge by smearing icing on her cheek. She finally surrendered a few moments later, and accepted the wet cloth Gwen offered her and wiped her face and her husband's. 

It's gonna be love, oh

Oh, it's gonna be love

They had a proper piece of cake, and then James muttered, "Shall we go?"

Lily nodded, and they stood. "Thank you all for coming, but I'm afraid we must be going to our honeymoon destination."

The guests cheered, and the newlyweds said their goodbyes; they wouldn't be seeing anyone else for an entire month. Then they Apparated away amidst flower petals.

It's gonna be sad,

It's gonna be true

~*~*~*~*

The two arrived in Majorca seconds later in the designated Apparating point. They were welcomed heartily by wizards in white robes, and shown to the bungalow on the beach where they would be staying for the next month. After the house elf left from turning down the bed, they relaxed. For the first time since that afternoon, they were completely alone.

It's gonna be me, baby

It's gonna be you

They stood in each others arms for a few long moments. She figured this was as good a time as any to ask what she had been dying to know.

She pulled back, resting her forehead on his. "James?"

"Mmmh?"

"Are you – are you a virgin?"

He stiffened and tilted his forehead away. "You are."

"Well, yes, I know that, and so do you. I told you, but you've never told me."

"No, I'm not," he sighed. "I was ruthless at school, Lily."

"When did you…?"

"End of sixth year, when I really gave up on you."

"Did you…er…"

"Like it? Sort of, I suppose. I bet it'll be better this time around."

Lily was scarlet. "Oh. Right, okay."

He grinned and caught her eyes. "I've made you uncomfortable, haven't I?"

She grinned back and sat down on the big bed, bringing him with her. "I love you, James Potter," she whispered, and her tone held such a note of compassion, her smile so loving and true, that the words James wanted to say died in his throat. What in God's name had he done to deserve her? And Lily smiled her gorgeous smile and traced little butterfly kisses along his sturdy jaw, relishing that he belonged to her forever, and she to him. And they made love, with the sweet scent of June's nights cloaking them in enchantment, the candle's flames dancing lively in the soft breeze that snuck through the open windows.

Later Lily lay drowsily awake; James's steady breathing on her neck and his arm around her waist reminding her of what they had just shared. They had both decided it was too early for children, and took necessary precautions. She felt entirely content, entirely whole. Thoughts of what was happening in the world right now were miles away, and she fell asleep with a content smile on her face.

It's gonna be…it's gonna be love…

~*~*~*~*

The honeymoon was spent in a delightful haze of swimming, lying in the sun, dancing at night, and various other activities. However, like all good things, this one had to come to an end. They were called home one week early to devastating news.

Katharine was dying.

"What?!"  Lily gasped upon hearing the news. She and James had just Apparated in front of the Potter's house, where Sirius was waiting. He took her arm and helped her inside, James bringing up the rear.

"Where is she?" James asked, frenzied.

"In – in her bedroom," Gwen whispered. Lily and James hurried through the house, ignoring people who tried to speak with them, and burst into the bedroom. Katharine Potter was propped up on pillows, thinner and paler than ever, but looking completely calm. Celeste was by her side in tears; this was her godmother dying. Lily went to her and ushered her outside, so to give James and his mother some privacy. Without a word she hugged the little sixteen-year-old tightly.

"Darling?"

Lily lifted her head to look at James. He was strangely calm, and walked over to Lily. "She is dying, and wants to speak with you." He turned to Celeste and gave her a small smile. "She loves you very much, Celeste…come talk with me, won't you?"

James led Celeste away, and Lily took a deep breath and walked into Katharine's bedroom.

"Lily," she whispered, smiling. "Come."

Lily sat down on the floor next to her bed and held her bony hand.

"I'm dying today, Lily, I know, and I want none of your tears. Hopefully now you know the love Harry and I share, a love that can never be broken, never strained. I know that you love James as much as I do, though in a different way, but it does still count."

"Don't you want to see your grandchildren?" Lily whispered, tightening her grip on Katharine's hand.

"Ah, but I shall. And you will tell them all about their grandparents, and they will know me, just as I know you now. And Lily – just because I'm not alive – that doesn't mean I'm not your mother."

"I love you, Mum," Lily said, tears blinding her vision. She leaned her forehead on Katharine's hand and sniffled. Another hand lifted her chin up.

"No tears, Lily."

~*~*~*~*

No tears, Lily, she told herself three days later, no tears. Katharine doesn't want you to be sad for her, because now she is happy.

Her eyes strayed to the people around – Katharine had got her wish. Not one of the immediate family – that is, the Potters, Blacks, Lupins, Watsons, and Ella – were crying. They were all staring solemnly as her casket was lowered, not a foot from Harry's. A moment of silence was kept as the dirt was poured in, and then they trooped back into the house. Lily, Celeste, James, and Sirius shook hands and took condolences, until the last person, besides Gwen, was gone.

James exhaled loudly and sat down in a nearby chair. "Thank God that's over."

Sirius nodded soberly, and held his hand out to Gwen. "We're going on home, then. Coming, Celeste?"

Sirius, now of age, was Celeste's legal guardian, and she would be living with him and Gwen in the Black's house until she finished school. Celeste went and put her hand in his, and together they Flooed home.

Lily sat down on the couch opposite James's chair. "I agree with you – thank God that's over."

James smiled and scooted over, making room for her in the chair. She sat down and rested her head on his chest as he played with her hair.

"What next?" she murmured sleepily.

"Oh! That reminds me!" James said suddenly, sitting up. Lily moaned in protest, but he dragged her on her feet anyway. "This is my wedding present to you, so you don't have to be tortured at night anymore."

She raised an eyebrow, quite confused, but followed him into the master bedroom anyway. She stopped dead in the doorway.

"I had it moved in this morning," James said proudly.

"It's not-"

"No, it isn't the real bed, I had it copied exactly."

"Thank you," she whispered, running her hands over the carved lilies.

"I want you to be perfectly happy."

She turned to him – he was still standing in the doorway. "James, bed or no bed, I'm very happy, you know."

"I know, I know." He smiled sadly, and she crossed to him and hugged him tightly.

"We're not supposed to be sad."

"Yes."

"Then why are you?"

"They're happy tears, Lily. Sort of."

"I don't like it when you cry, happy tears or not."

Silence. Then –

"I don't like to cry either. 'S not very manly."

Lily giggled. "And you're manly anyway?"

"Ahh, you're asking for it."

"And what are you going to do, huh, Mr. Potter?"

"What should I do, Mrs. Potter?"

"Hmmm-"

"Never mind. Want to see if the bed works?"

~*~*~*~*

"No."

"Lily, you said you would, after we were married."

"So?"

"We've been married three months."

"Well, so?"

"You've broken your promise."

"Listen to me, James Potter, I didn't promise anything."

"Fine, you said you would go work for the Ministry after we were married!"

Lily bit her lip hard and put her tea down on the table a bit more forcefully than necessary. "James, you're treading on dangerous ground."

"Lily, listen to me for a change, won't you, instead of acting like a three year old!"

The redhead glared at him. "I've said it once and I'll say it again: I'm not ready."

"When will you be ready?" He wasn't going to let it lie this time. "When you're fifty? Because that's what it's looking like from here."

She made a noise of exasperation. "Well, fine, you'll be the first to know, don't worry."

"That's it, Lily Carolyn," James cried, also slamming his cup on the counter. "You can't intimidate me. I'm the only one – well, except Gwen – that you can't intimidate, and you can't win me over by acting innocent, like you can with Sirius and occasionally Gwen. It won't work. Got it? You will consider, seriously, quitting your job at Flourish and Blotts and joining the Ministry-"

"How dare you tell me what to-"

"Everyone has been patient until now, saying your reluctance was due to the fact that you're a newlywed, but now even the most patient – like Dumbledore – are wondering what the hell is going on with you-"

"James! This isn't your decision! You don't know my reasons – you don't know half of what goes on in my mind!"

They stood there, breathing heavily, glaring at each other from across the table, when it suddenly struck Lily – this was the first argument they'd ever had. Some of her shock must have been evident on her face, because James's expression softened a notch.

"The Lily Carolyn Evans Potter that I know loves helping people. She hates standing by and watching, hates not being in the thick of things. Deny those right now truthfully, and I'll back off."

Lily hated that he was right. She didn't say anything.

"Was it marriage, Lily? Was it Mary Katherine's death? Was it something as trivial as a defective Summoner? It could be any or all of those things, but I wonder – what happened to the Lily I used to know?"

"She wised up, James!" Lily was angry now. Her husband had touched a nerve. "Saw what had been in front of her face since she turned thirteen! I can't help them – I don't know how! Violet should be here! She's the one right for the job – not me! I hate it that you think you know everything about me, James! You don't! So don't go poke your nose in where you don't belong!"

She stomped out of the kitchen and up the stairs, to her new favorite spot in the house – the upstairs study. She flung herself into an armchair and brooded for a bit. James would be up in a moment, would say he was sorry, and she would forgive him and everything would be normal.

As the minutes ticked by, she began to wonder what was taking him so long. Finally, her name rang up the stairs.

"Lily? I've had a call from work."

If she strained her ears, Lily could here the shrill whistling of the Summoner.

"I'll be back later. Goodbye." His tone was flat.

Lily said nothing. A moment later, the door was opened and closed. He was gone.

Well, fine, she huffed to herself. If he wants to be stubborn, then fine. I will be too. I won't even think of – of that man while he's gone. Yes.

~*~*~*~*

"Mrs. Potter? Mrs. Potter, are you in?"

Lily walked curiously into the living room, to see a man's head in the fire – she recognized him as Mundungus Fletcher, her old Division Head. It was dark outside – nearly seven o'clock, she found with a start. She had been so caught up in a Muggle novel she had found in the study upstairs, she had forgotten even to eat.

"Yes?" she asked, beginning to get slightly worried. Where was James?

"We have some news – I think you should come down here."

Lily's hand tightened around Rebecca, the book she was reading. "What's happened?" she breathed.

Mundungus shook his head. "Come down, please."

And he was gone.

Lily didn't stop to think as she grabbed her cloak – it was chilly, even for November – dashed out the door so she was free of the anti-Apparation wards (she didn't feel like tearing a hole – it would be more work to fix), and was gone in the blink of an eye.

She found herself a second later in the bustling safe Apparation chamber at the Ministry, and was just in time to hear a shrieked, "What?!" that had unmistakably been uttered from Gwen's mouth. She wove through the crowd frantically, until she came to a small group – Mundungus, Arabella Figg, and Gwen.

"Lily!" Gwen cried, her face one of shocked disbelief and her voice higher than natural, "Giants!"

"What?"

Arabella laid a comforting hand on Gwen's shoulder, and Mundungus sighed, looking very tired. "Jo sent Division Two and Division Three in to help save a small village of Muggles up north from giants…one of the giants managed to capture your husband, Black, and three other Aurors."

Lily was having trouble breathing. "Wait – these giants, are they Death Eaters?"

"We have no way of knowing, Mrs. Potter."

"Then why the hell did you sent Aurors, Dark wizard catchers, in to fight beings that might not be dark, instead of the damn M.L.E.S. wizards?" Gwen's crystal eyes were popping in fury.

"And where are my husband and brother now?" Lily interrupted sharply.

Mundungus was distinctly nervous. "We aren't sure – eyewitnesses say the giants went into caves in the side of the mountain – Mount Kywiian."

"What was this village called, again?"

"Tmyjeen."

"Well, it was nice talking to you – goodbye."

Lily Disapparated, and found herself a second later on the outskirts of a completely wrecked little town.  

Gwen appeared right next her. Lily would've been thoroughly offended had she not come. 

They surveyed the wrecked homes, crying people, and M.L.E.S. having a field day running around Obliviating everyone.

"Lily!"

A tall, redheaded man came towards them, smiling. He extended his hand. "How are you?"

 "Oh, Arthur," Lily said, attempting a smile. "We're - okay."

Arthur shook hands with Gwen too, who was looking as though she badly needed to use the toilet in her anxiety.

"Have you heard anything about…?"

"No, no, not yet. I'm a member of the Accidental Magical Reverse Squad – this is our biggest job yet, I'd say. But I don't know anything about it – except, of course, they have James Potter and Sirius Black. Your wedding was beautiful, by the way."

Gwen let out a piteous whimper, and Lily glanced sharply at her before turning back to Arthur. "Thank you. Er – which mountain were they taken up, did you say?" she asked casually.

Arthur pointed into the distance, over a grassy plain, where a dark mound rose up. "That one. Mount Kywiian."

"Right, it's been lovely talking to you, Arthur."

"You too – I sincerely hope James returns safely." He smiled, before disappearing into the wreckage. Lily glanced around before jerking her best friend behind a tree.

"Listen to me, Gwen. We can't stand by and let James and Sirius be eaten by giants."

Gwen whimpered again.

"Gwen, would you snap out of it?! I need your help!"

The raven-haired girl breathed deeply, before squaring her shoulders. "Uh huh. Help. And you're right, we can't stand by and watch. So – what did you have in mind?"

Lily wrung her hands – a nervous habit. "Erm – go rescue them?" she said half-heartedly, desperately trying to come up with a plan.

"Good thinking, Lily! We'll rescue them!"

Lily met Gwen's blue eyes disbelievingly. "What? I was kidding."

"Well, I'm not. I'm Apparating to the base of that mountain, marching up there, and demanding they hand over Sirius!"

"And James!" Lily cried.

"Yeah, him too. Come on!"

And in the blink of an eye, the space Gwen had been was empty. Lily looked over her shoulder and was just in time to see Jo Krespin, Head of the Auror Department, appear and begin looking around. That sent the last of her doubts from her mind, and she Disapparated.

She Apparated in knee-high grass at the base of a barren mountain that looked impossibly dark.

"Took you long enough."

Lily uttered a cry and spun around. Gwen's face was illuminated by her wand light, and Lily copied her.

"Lumos! Gwen! Don't do that!"

"Sorry. Come on, we've got some climbing to do."

She started up a path, but Lily was still stationary. "Why is there a path, anyway? That's too small for giants to walk on."

"Sheep herders? I dunno. Just come on!"

On the way up, Lily, huffing and puffing, told Gwen all about her argument with James. When she was finished, Gwen said, "Good heavens, Lily. That's horrible. But did you-"

"Ahh!"

"What?" Gwen cried, grabbing onto Lily's shoulder.

"Did you hear that?" she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Hear what?"

"That noise," Lily's heart was going incredibly fast. "In the bushes right next to me, something moved."

"Lily, there are animals on this mountain, did you think of that?"

Lily gave a nervous laugh. "Animals, right. Of course."

A little while later, when they were quiet because talking took too much energy, Gwen spotted something.

"A light! Do you see it?"

Lily squinted. Sure enough, in the distance, she could see a bright light. They fairly ran up the path, the bright light getting closer and closer.

"It's a cave mouth! Do – you – see?"

"Yeah – I – see."

They topped the rise onto flat ground, were Lily bent over, breathing heavily. "Good thing we've had Auror training, or else that would have been much harder. Don't you think? Gwen?"

Lily looked up to see that her friend's mouth had gone oddly slack. "Let's go inside, Lily," she said in a monotonous voice.

 "Gwen, we can't just barge in there, there are giants-"

"No, it's safe," she said again, still monotonous.

"What's wrong with you? And how do you know?"

"I just do," there was a definite desperate note in her voice. She put her hand around Lily's wrist. "Let's go in."

Lily stood still. Something was really not right. She took out her Adviser powers and crept in through Gwen's ear. There wasn't a thought in her brain, except Get her inside, get her inside, get her inside…

"The Imperious Curse! Gwen, let go of me! You're under a curse!" Lily shrieked, trying to worm out of her iron grip. The hand that held her wrist tightened.

"What's this rubbish you're talking about? I'm perfectly fine, Lily. Come on." Still monotonous.

"No!" Lily took out her wand with her free left hand and pointed it at Gwen. "Finite Incantatem!"

The vacant look passed from her eyes, and she stumbled. "Lily, what-"

"Alright, then. If you want to do this the hard way."

Lily froze at the sound of the horrible, high, chilling voice, like nails on a chalkboard. She turned slowly towards the cave entrance, dreading what she would see. There he was. Lord Voldemort, a tall figure clothed in black and standing in the mouth of the cave.

"Take the spare," he barked to someone behind him. Three men ran forwards and took Gwen before Lily remembered to act. She Stunned one of them so powerfully that when Lord Voldemort leaned down and checked his pulse, he pronounced the man dead.

"Very good, Miss Evans. Or – isn't it Mrs. Potter now?"

Lily said nothing, just glared at him with a hatred she didn't know she possessed.

"Let's make this simple, Lily. Either come calmly with us now, or I make sure a certain husband of yours is disposed of." He smiled cruelly and held his arm out to her.

Lily walked over to him, but made no move to take his arm. Voldemort shrugged, smirking, and swept into the cave. It had a dirt floor and was damp and drippy, what you would expect for a cave. They swept through so many tunnels that Lily stopped keeping count, but finally arrived in a small chamber. It had a crude cot, a fireplace, a chair, a hole that must have been used as a privy, and a table. Lord Voldemort bowed her in mockingly.

"Your suite, Mrs. Potter."

Lily whirled to face him. "How long are you keeping me here? And where is my family?"

"As long as I need to, and in a cell somewhere. Good evening, Miss Adviser."

He left and in his wake, two wizards in masks took out their wands. Lily raised her wand, thinking they were going to attack, but they simply rolled a stone over the entrance, leaving a hole in the top so Lily could get some air.

She looked around dejectedly. What was going to happen to her? And worse, what was going to happen to James and Sirius and Gwen?

An iron hand gripped her heart – without them, Lily wouldn't be able to live…And James – what was the last thing she had said to him? Something about not poking your nose in where you don't belong…?

She sat down on the little cot and put her head in her hands, trying to get her cool head back. She started when a grinding noise sounded – the "door" was being opened – and a poor, pitiful-looking creature entered – a house-elf, carrying a tray.

It had a crooked nose, was wearing a particularly horrible towel, and was very thin. Lily stood up, and the house-elf took a trembling bow.

"I is Rommy, miss. I is changing your bed and tidying up your room, miss."

Lily walked over to Rommy, and the poor elf – she thought it was a boy – squeezed his huge blue eyes shut as if expecting Lily to hit him. Instead she knelt in front of the elf and smiled.

"It's very nice to meet you, Rommy. I'm Lily."

Rommy opened one eye and started violently when he saw Lily so close to him, and backed up a few steps.

"It is nice meeting you too, miss. I is-" he looked around, hesitating. "I is sorry you is staying in such a bad place, Miss Lily," Rommy whispered. "Rommy tried to make it more nicer but Rommy didn't have much to work with, miss."

Lily smiled again. "It's fine. Tell me, who do you work for?"

"I is working for the Rosier's. Rommy's master brought Rommy here, and I is not knowing why." He was still whispering and looked distinctly uncomfortable.

"Ah. Well, thank you, Rommy – I'm glad to have a friend."

"Miss Lily – Miss Lily thinks Rommy is a friend?" Rommy's huge eyes were even bigger at this.

"Of course."

"You is not bad, I is thinking," Rommy observed.

"Who told you I was bad?"

Rommy looked stricken. "No one! No one is saying Miss Lily is bad! I must go, Miss Lily!"

And with that, he walked quickly to the stone and began rolling it away with his own magic.

"Rommy – wait!"

The small elf turned around, shaking slightly. "Miss Lily is needing something?"

"No – well, I was wondering – are you serving my friends? The other prisoners?"

Rommy shook her head wonderingly. Lily bowed her own head, fighting back tears.

"Rommy could – Rommy could ask around if Miss Lily wants," Rommy offered in a whisper.

"Would you?" Lily's eyes were filled with gratitude. "Thank you."

"I is going now, Miss Lily."

Lily watched the house-elf leave with a slight smile on her face. At least she had made a friend. She turned to her dinner – a roll, green beans, a strange-looking casserole, and water. Lovely.

~*~*~*~*

"Miss Lily. Miss Lily!"

Lily was shaken awake by the anxious-looking Rommy the next morning. It took her a few seconds to remember where she was, and when she did, she sat bolt upright on her cot.

"Yes, what is it?"

"I has been sent to wake you up – Master's master is coming!"

Master's master… "Lord Voldemort?"

"Yes, Master's master! You is needing to get up! Goodbye, Miss Lily!"

The elf scurried away, and Lily stood, trying to comb her hair down. She had slept horribly, like she always did in strange beds, and didn't feel like dealing with stupid Voldemort.

Lily wondered what time it was – there were no windows and she didn't wear a Muggle wristwatch. She didn't have much more time to ponder, because the stone was rolled away and Lord Voldemort strode in, his red eyes resting on Lily, his pale, thin lips twisting into a malevolent smile.

"Good morning, Lily. And how did you sleep?"

Lily simply glared. He was taunting her, and she wouldn't rise to the bait.

"You had better be grateful. This is much nicer than where your friends are staying."

Lily swallowed hard and continued to hold his gaze.

"Well, I can see you aren't interested in small talk, which is perfectly fine with me. It makes my job much easier, you see."

He pushed his cloak back to reveal a silver band around his waist, with a sort of scabbard tied to it, except what was inside wasn't a sword…

He took the thing inside by the top and pulled it out. The swishing sound it made was a sound that had haunted her dreams when she remembered Violet's death…And there, in all its majesty, was the Staff of Metrusia. Intricately carved with black lacquered wood and silver, it formed the Latin words that would put Lily entirely under the holders spell…

"No need to look so frightened," Voldemort said, smirking. "This is only a test run." He began saying the words that would be the end of her, and an aura of power shimmered around him. When he was finished saying the chant three times, a shot of silver edged in black hit Lily, and everything slowly went dark.

~*~*~*~*

When she came to, she was sitting in the moldy chair looking attentively at Lord Voldemort, who was in front of her, the Staff presumably back in its scabbard. Lily jumped up, feeling scared.

"What happened?! What did you do?!"

"Relax, Mrs. Potter. I did nothing of importance, simply took you for a – a test drive, shall we say?" His lip curled.

"I hate you!" she burst savagely, and before she could stop herself, a ball of fire burst from her fingertips. Voldemort dodged it, a look of alarm on his pale face, before collecting himself.

"That was very cruel, Lily," he informed her, drawing his wand. "I think I should be cruel back, don't you? Crucio!"

 Lily didn't have time to block it, and wasn't prepared when it hit her full-force on her chest. But that was the last time she was able to think, as immeasurable pain went coursing through her body. She was being burned with white-hot pokers, knives were digging into her, her head was splitting…

And then it stopped, and when she opened her eyes, Lord Voldemort – and the Staff of Metrusia – was gone.

She forced herself to sit up and wiped her cheeks – she was crying. As she sat there, shaking, she tried to uncover what Voldemort had made her do while she was under the influence of the Staff, but nothing was there but a sort of block. So she would do things without knowing what she was doing…

Lily stood up and had to grab on to the table for support; her head was spinning, she was still crying, and a cold layer of sweat lined her body.

The grinding noise that meant the stone was opening sounded; Lily drew her wand, prepared to kill anyone who entered the door, when she saw it was Rommy the house-elf, accompanied by another elf, carrying a towel and a bowl of water.

Rommy's huge blue eyes filled with tears when he saw Lily, sweaty and shaking, leaning against the table.

"Miss Lily is hurt," the elf sniffled. "Rommy must help Miss Lily."

Lily allowed herself to be led to the chair where she sat down, and Rommy wiped her forehead, looking paternal.

"Oh, Miss Lily," Rommy said after a moment of silence. Lily jerked out of her thoughts.

"Yes?"

"Rommy has asked around, miss, and knows who is serving Miss Lily's family."

Lily sat up, suddenly attentive. "Who?" she suddenly remembered there was another elf in the room. "Is it you?"

The elf had dark blue eyes and shook its head mournfully. "No, miss, I is not serving miss's family. I is Elly," she had a higher voice than Rommy, so Lily assumed Elly was a girl.

"Elly is Rommy's best friend, Miss Lily," Rommy said eagerly.

"Elly has heard much of Miss Lily's kindness, Miss Lily, and Elly was so eager to meet Miss Lily. I hope you is not minding?"

A small smile crossed Lily's face. "No, I don't mind. It's a pleasure to meet you, too, Elly. Now, who is serving my friends?"

"Two house elves by the name of Reini and Xavi. Reini, Miss Lily, is a bit…" Rommy and Elly exchanged glances.

"Very excited, she is," Elly supplied. "She is liking her job a lot, Miss Lily. She is a bit – well, attached to the human she is serving."

"A Mr. Sirius," Rommy put in.

Lily's smile was a bit bigger now. "Attached, do you say?"

"Yes, and Xavi likes her Mr. Potter too," Rommy said. "They also is liking the woman they serve, of course," he said hastily.

"I'm sure." An idea suddenly occurred to her. "Rommy, do you trust the elves who serve my friends?"

"Rommy does not know them very well, Miss Lily." Seeing Lily's crestfallen face he said quickly, "But Rommy and Elly will both know them soon!"

"Yes, Elly and Rommy will!" Elly put in enthusiastically.

"Good, because I was thinking…" Lily lowered her voice to a whisper. "Perhaps you could be our message carriers."

The two elves exchanged glances. "But Master is not telling us to exchange messages for Miss Lily," Rommy whispered slowly.

"But he told you to do what I want, didn't he?"

"Well, yes," Rommy said. "And…and Rommy does want to help Miss Lily…"

"And so does Elly!" Elly declared loudly.

"Ssshhh," Lily said, hushing her. "Good, I'm glad. Now, listen to me very, very carefully…"

~*~*~*~*

"Ouch! Sirius, get your bloody knee out of my stomach!"

"You know you like it."

"Sirius, call me crazy, but I don't really fancy it when people cut off my air supply with their damn hellish knees!"

"Gwen, calm down."

"Stop being so bloody reasonable, James! And why does it have to be so dark in here?!"

"Gwennie, we've been over this before, lovie."

"Ooh, I hate you, Sirius Black. And since when were you the sensible one?"

"Since we've been trapped in a cell for almost two days. When's lunch, d'you think?"

"Only you can think of lunch at a time like this, Black."

"Shut up, Potter. Fine. When'll we be rescued, d'you think?"

"I assume they're trying really hard right now."

"Oh, yes, of course they are! They've had, what, twenty-some odd hours and we haven't even heard a peek from them!"

"Gwen…"

"James, I don't want to here it! I'm the one who tried to lure my best friend inside…I…"

Her angry tone had suddenly disappeared. She felt Sirius put his arms around her and she leaned into his chest, feeling tears come to her eyes. She didn't even know where the bloody hell they were, but she was sure it was a step up from hell. Freezing in some cave somewhere. At least she had Sirius and James. James put a comforting hand on her arm and she clutched his hand.

It really was pitch-black. The only time they were able to see was when the two house elves came with their meals. God only knew what torture Lily was being subjected to.

Thinking of her best friend led to a sob escaping her throat. Sirius, as if sensing, held her tighter. Of course, he always knew what she was thinking. That was how they were.

"It's okay," he whispered into her hair. "She's – she's fine."

"I'm worried about James," she whispered back. James was obviously in his own world – his grip on her hand went slack.

"So'm I."

They were still and silent for a moment, until light came into their view, illuminating their cell door and the other similar cells around them. The two house-elves carrying the lights unlocked their door, slipped in, and locked it back.

Reini, the one with very dark eyes immediately offered Sirius his plate of food. "Mr. Sirius, sir!" she exclaimed breathlessly. She gave Gwen what was unmistakably a glare, as she was currently tangled up in his arms. The other house-elf was bowing profusely, looking up at James with wide, adoring eyes, whose name was Xavi. Xavi remembered to give Gwen her food, too, luckily – Gwen was beginning to feel her bad temper returning.

While the prisoners ate, the house-elves watched. Then Xavi jumped suddenly.

"Mr. James, sir! I has something to tell you!"

James looked up from mechanically eating his soup. "Yes?"

"From the house-elves Rommy and Elly!" Reini put in eagerly, placing her small hands on Sirius's leg, who exchanged glances with Gwen before smiling.

"Do you really?"

"Yes – they is serving a girl here – a Miss Lily!"

Gwen sloshed soup down her front very ungracefully, making a strangled noise. James practically threw his bowl aside and grabbed Xavi's shoulders. "Wha-" Sirius spluttered, also putting his soup aside.

"Yes? What did they say?" James asked Xavi, who looked as though she had died and gone to heaven.

"They is saying…they is saying…" she stuttered.

"They is giving Reini and Xavi an important message from Miss Lily!" Reini said importantly, gazing up at Sirius.

Gwen had just about had it with the star-struck elves. "For God's sake, tell us!"

Reini and Xavi glared at her. "They is saying, Miss Gwen," Xavi said huffily, "from Miss Lily, that Master's master has been mean to Miss Lily."

"Master's master – Lord Voldemort?" James cried, shaking the little elf's shoulders.

"Yes, Master's master," Reini continued. "He is keeping Miss Lily locked up in a room upstairs."

"And today he hurt Miss Lily bad," Xavi put in, shaking her head mournfully. "We is hearing – is hearing her from the kitchen, Mr. James, sir."

"What do you mean, you heard her? Was she shouting?"

"Such shrieks Reini has never heard," Reini said, her eyes wide. "Master's master hurt Miss Lily bad."

"Crucio," the three prisoners said together, horror struck. "Is she alright now?" James asked eagerly.

"Elly and Rommy told Xavi and Reini that she is."

"Is that it? Did they say anything else?" Sirius asked impatiently.

"Yes, Miss Lily says that she loves you all," Reini said.

Gwen whimpered and leaned back, the tears in her eyes threatening to spill. James looked at her anxiously before turning to Xavi. "Can you send her a message back?"

"We could," Xavi said a bit doubtfully. "If that is what Mr. James and Mr. Sirius want. And Miss Gwen," she added.

"Tell her from me that I love her with my whole heart and I'm so sorry for the argument we got into," James instructed, his voice becoming choked.

"And love from me too," Sirius put in.

"Yes, and tell her to be brave from us all, and love from me as well," Gwen added. 

Xavi was looking at James intently. "You is arguing with Miss Lily?"

Gwen could have hit the elf. James felt bad enough already.

"Yes, I did, and you must tell her I'm sorry if nothing else."

The elves left after taking their prisoners out one by one and allowing them to use the privy, before restoring them to their cell.

"The Cruciatus Curse," Gwen said once they had gone.

"I'm going to kill him one day," James said savagely. "I hate him!"

~*~*~*~*

They continued in this manner, the house-elves scurrying between them, for the rest of the day. Lily explained about the effects of the staff, and apologized profusely for the argument she and James had been in. She wanted more than anything to be with him and Sirius and Gwen, but she knew this was impossible.

Voldemort did not return that day or the next; Lily got the impression that she had scared him with her ball of fire, and was more than willing to shoot another one at him if he decided to pay her a visit. By the end of her third day, she, as well as the other prisoners, were wondering where the Aurors were.

"Miss Lily! I has a message for you!" Elly exclaimed, rushing in, breathing heavily. She leaned close to Lily and whispered, "Mr. James wants to try and escape."

Lily sat upright. "What?" she hissed.

Elly nodded solemnly. "It is indeed dangerous. I is scared for you, Miss Lily."

Lily rubbed her temples, thinking hard. "Ask him exactly how he plans to do this, alright? Thanks so much, Elly."

It turned out that James wanted to break out tonight, around ten or so (he wore a watch). Xavi, Elly, and Reini had agreed to help immediately, at the risk of losing their jobs. Rommy was a bit more hesitant, but he swore he wouldn't say anything.

That night, Lily paced her quarters, not knowing what time it was, but confident the plan would work. They were planning to follow Reini and Xavi (who would give them their wands back) through the passages and duck into the kitchen quickly, where Elly would tell them how to get to Lily's cave. Rommy (who had agreed eventually) would wait in Lily's room with her and then tell them how to get out.

Lily hugged her cloak (which she had been wearing for three days) close to herself – it was quite cold. The stone moved aside and her heart leapt – but it was only Rommy. She greeted the house-elf with forced cheerfulness, and resumed pacing and wringing her hands while Rommy explained how to get out of the caves. When the stone rolled back again, she smiled and breathed a sigh of relief.

And then her heart turned over.

Lord Voldemort was standing there, and Lily reacted quickly, firing a spell – but Voldemort was ready, and he blocked it easily. He smiled malevolently and took out the Staff. "I think it's time to teach you a lesson again. I won't be as nice this time, I'm afraid."

Over his shoulder she saw a sight for sore eyes – James, Sirius, and Gwen hurtling down the passage. When Voldemort turned to look, Lily acted quickly, and put everything she had into a spell – "Petrificus Totalus!"

Voldemort's body tensed; he hit the floor with a crash, the Staff falling out of his hand. "Get it, quick!" Lily yelled, and Gwen bent down without hesitating and grabbed the Staff. They could hear shouts down the hall, and Lily got in front of everyone, firing Stunning charms at anyone in her path. She dimly remembered running through the maze of passages, trusting her instincts and the directions given to her. Soon they were in the huge entrance cave and outside into the bitter cold air. She lit her wand while still running and followed the "sheep herder's" path and they didn't stop until they were halfway down the mountain, when she stopped and turned.

Gwen got to her first; she dropped the Staff and they embraced tightly. Sirius barged in next, lifting her off her feet and squeezing her. James then took her from Sirius, her feet still not touching the ground, and that's when the tears came.

"Oh, I love you," she sniffled, kissing his shoulder. "I'm so, so sorry."

"No, I'm sorry. I shouldn't-"

"Shh," she said, leaning back. He put her down. "That's been a wakeup call for me – I'll join the Ministry."

Gwen let out a yell of happiness, and Sirius hugged Lily. Gwen joined in, so all four of them were clutching each other, and they sobered.

"We're bloody lucky," Sirius announced. "I don't think I could stay another day in that thing."

For once, Gwen didn't say something biting back. She simply hugged him tighter.

~*~*~*~*

When the four arrived at the bottom, they were astonished to see tents set up, and recognized many of the people – the Aurors were here. A cry went up when they appeared, and wizards and witches began Apparating every few feet.

They were hugged by so many people that Lily could only see glimpses of faces. Hayley, Remus, Peter, Elizabeth, Ella, Marie-Claire, Mr. Lupin, Mrs. Lupin, Arthur Weasley…and finally Minister Watson.

He hugged Lily, and she said, "Minister, I'm ready to join you at the Ministry."

A mixture of shock, relief, and gratitude crossed over his face, and he hugged her again. "Wonderful! Be at my office on Monday, my dear!"

Apparently, the Aurors had made an attempt to save them, and had gotten as far as the top landing before they realized that not only giants were in there, but a whole mass of Death Eaters as well. They were now preparing to drive them out.

There was much to be celebrated – mostly because the Staff was now in their hands. Lily asked the Minister what would be done with it, and he said they would examine it at the Magical Artifacts office and then put it in a top secret vault in Gringotts Bank. Lily didn't feel like celebrating, however, as the full extent of what she had been through in the past three days hit her. All she wanted to do was soak thoroughly in a tub, change into her best pajamas, and go to bed.

And so, James, who seemed to be thinking along the same lines, took her arm and they found Sirius and Gwen. They were heading home to do the same, and then were going to go up to Hogwarts and see Celeste the next day ("If we're lucky, we'll catch her in McGonagall's class!"). Lily asked if she could come, and James agreed to go, and before they went home Hayley invited them to dinner the next day, just them and Remus and Peter. They agreed, and Apparated away happily.

Some time later that night, when Lily was scrubbed clean and had been lying awake in bed for some time, she said, "James?"

"Mmmh?"

"Are you awake?"

He rolled over. "I am now."

"I was thinking, James."

"Were you?" he yawned sleepily.

"Yes, about the house-elves. Without them, we probably wouldn't be here."

"I thought about that too."

"Well, we can't just leave them there to starve."

"Yes, but what am I going to do, ring up Rosier and Nott and ask them to fork over their elves?"

"No, I suppose not." Lily sighed. "I've just become rather fond of them."

"And they us. Don't fret, darling, I'll think of something."

Lily's eyes were already getting heavy. She snuggled up to him and yawned. "Thank you." And fell asleep.

~*~*~*~*

"We couldn't have picked a better day, eh?"

Lily agreed with James wholeheartedly. Sirius, Gwen, and the two were walking up the sloping drive to Hogwarts. The weather was perfect; not like the bitter cold that they had been getting. It was breezy and slightly warm, and the grounds were beautiful, in full autumn bloom. They walked the rest of the way in silence until they got to the big oak front doors. Gwen pushed them opened and they entered, squinting in the sudden darkness, and made their way to Dumbledore's office, where they had promised to have tea when they had written the day before.

"Peppermint Toads!" Lily cried in front of the gargoyle statue. It leaped aside, and she mounted the moving staircase with the others. They rode up to Dumbledore's door and James knocked.

"Come in, come in!" someone called jovially on the other side. James smiled and opened the door, and there was Professor Dumbledore.

"Ah! Here you are!" he shook hands with them all. "I can't tell you how worried young Celeste has been," he said, still smiling, as he sat down behind his desk. "She'll be very happy to see you, Sirius. Ah! Yes, you came for tea, didn't you?"

He conjured a plate of cakes and tea, and they helped themselves. "Dumbledore, what class have they got next?" Gwen asked through one of the cakes.

"Hmm," he said thoughtfully, looking up at the ceiling, "the sixth year Gryffindors…Transfiguration, I think."

"Yes!" Sirius exclaimed, exchanging joyous looks with James.

They finished their tea, bade goodbye to Dumbledore, and set off in the direction of the Transfiguration corridor.

They arrived at the door and Sirius, grinning broadly, flung it open and stepped in. The rest of his friends followed quite hesitantly.

"Minerva, my good woman!" he exclaimed, taking Professor McGonagall's hand and shaking it emphatically in front of the stunned sixth years. "Jolly good to see you, jolly good, eh, James?"

"Right you are, Sirius old pal," James said, his eyes alight. He pushed Sirius away and grabbed Professor McGonagall's hand with the wand in it. "Really spiffy, I must say."

She was still slightly frozen, but the sniggers from her class brought her back. She jerked her hands out of theirs and straightened her robes. "Potter, Black," she said, her lips in a thin line.

Sirius turned around and Celeste stood up, tears splashing down her front. A second later she was in his arms. He hugged her tightly and they left the room for a minute. Everything was silent, until Lily stepped forward, extending her hand.

"It's wonderful to see you again, Professor," she smiled.

Professor McGonagall looked a bit happier to see her and shook her hand. "And you, Miss Evans. Oh, goodness, excuse me, Mrs. Potter."

Lily smiled and Professor McGonagall shook hands with Gwen, before they excused themselves and walked out into the hall.

"-because then I won't have anyone, Sirius, anyone at all!" Celeste was crying. Gwen, James, and Lily exchanged glances, a bit embarrassed to be hearing this, and walked into an empty classroom and shut the door to give brother and sister some privacy.

"Poor Celeste," Lily remarked quietly, sitting on a desk. The other two nodded soberly and were silent.

Sirius came in a few moments later, looking stressed.

"How is she?"

Sirius shrugged, tilted his head back, and closed his eyes.

After a few moments of silence, "I think I'll grow a beard," he said suddenly.

"You most certainly will not," Gwen said, sliding off her desk and putting her arms around him. "Beards are nasty."

"Yeah, and what are you going to do about it?" he asked as they walked out the door.

"We women have ways of removing unwanted body hair. I might accidentally go overboard and you'll wake up one morning, bald as a – aaaah! Sirius! That tickles!"

James held out his hand to Lily, which she accepted, and they strolled out after their friends, savoring this contentment, which they knew would be short-lived.

A/N: Twenty-five pages on the dot. Oops, I lied. Twenty six pages. The biggest yet, I'd say. *grin* Review, please! And join my Yahoo group; I'd love to have you.