A/N: I am sorry it took so long. I hope it was worth the wait. Hopefully
the next chapter won't take quite as long to get out.
This chapter is UN-BETAED and will be replaced with an edited version but I decided everyone had waited long enough.
Thank you for you patience and I promise this story will be finished.
~~*~~~*~~
** To have and to hold **
In a small flat in the hidden folds of Diagon Alley the tables were turned on Aggy Court as the infamous assessment day approached. It had only been a few weeks since Lily had gone through the stress of her first professional Quidditch game with Aggy on the side lines watching her friend drive her self crazy with worry and now she was in the same position. Over the last week she had often found her self pace the length of the little sitting room mumbling to her self and much to her annoyance she often caught her supposedly best friend chuckling over the top of a book on charms research.
Tomorrow was D-day for the four trainee Aurors. Lily knew her friend was ready but she also knew that no matter what she said Aggy would never accept this information as true, so she cut her losses for the night and wishing Aggy pleasant dreams and headed to bed. Nerves frazzled, Aggy stood in the middle of the tiny room and stared into the large old mirror and realized there was nothing left but to follow Lily's example and go to bed and hope.
It was an anxious Aggy Court that sat opposite Lily Evans the next morning nursing a hot cup of tea in the hope that it would settle the butterflies that seemed to be breeding a great rate of knots in her stomach. Unknown to Aggy the brew Lily had handed her contained a few added extras. Lily had strengthened their early morning drink with lemon for peace and angelica for protection. As time move on the girls got ready in silence and the short walk to the ministry seemed endless that morning.
Reaching the doors Lily turned to Aggy and hugged her tight. "Good luck, I'll see you tonight." Lily whispered.
"Thanks," was the only reply she got as they headed into the entrance to the old building.
Both nodded to the old witch sat at the reception desk, making it to the fireplace both girls were soon swirling through the Ministry's floo network to their respective departments.
Stepping into the room before her Aggy quickly dusted her robes down, removing the small specks of soot she had picked up and her short fire journey. Glancing around the squad room Aggy sighed with relief as she caught sight of the familiar dark head of Sirius Black. Quietly heading over towards him Aggy smiled to her self as she realized he hadn't seen her. Going into stealth mode Aggy crept up on the unsuspecting young man and on reaching him she stuck out her finger and poked him in the side.
The squeal that echoed around the room causing heads to turn in the direction of the girly sound and was exactly what Aggy needed to calm her nerves. Although the glare that found itself firmly planted on the handsome face of Sirius Black managed to achieve some of its purpose and Aggy bit her lip to quell the laughter that was rumbling in her throat.
Taking a deep breath Aggy apologised to her old housemate. "Sirius I'm sorry but I just couldn't resist."
Slowly a smile broke through the dark look on the normally mischievous face and with a roll of his eyes Sirius said, "Don't worry I'll hold it in reserve for later."
This earned him a smile but before Aggy could respond the sound of the head of the Auror training division boomed around the busy room. The loud booming voice silenced the room in an instant and twenty pairs of eyes all turned to look at the department chief. Stood next to her friends Aggy Court held her breath as the teams were announced and the assignments were issued. Feeling the warmth of a body close to her Aggy looked up to find a worried looking Danny Brocklehurst was stood right beside her. A quick glance to the left and Aggy found the same worried expressions on the handsome faces of both Sirius and Patrick.
Aggy was brought back to the reality of the situation as the chief's voice boomed all around them.
"Team three will consist of Black, Boot, Brocklehurst and Court. Your commander for this assignment is Moody and you will be taking part in a snatch and grab operation."
The four ex-Hogwarts students stood stock still, the tension flowing freely through them as they waited for the instructions for the final two groups to be announced. Finally five mission commanders appeared at the front of the squad room and motioned for their team of trainees to follow them.
The horror of their assigned leader had sunk into the four friends and as each looked up to see the gnarled face of Alastor Moody staring at them, dread and despair filled them. Moody was legendary around the Ministry and they had each snatched glimpses of him while completing their training. The man commanded respect even from a distance and being this close only intensified the feeling. He was renowned for his ruthlessness and determination to take prisoners alive, no matter what and it was this that had gained him the reputation he carried, along with the rumours about the ferocity of his interrogation skills. For the unfortunate four who had received looks of pity from their fellow trainees it was the fact that Alastor Moody was well known to have no tolerance for trainees, which he referred to as 'green sticks'. Also what was more than rumour was the fact that more often than not trainee female Aurors assigned to Moody did not pass the final assessment.
Nervously standing before the somewhat ragged looking wizard it was hard not to notice the face that was beginning to resemble the lines of a map due to the collection of battle scars that ran haphazardly over the marled skin that was stretched tight over the bones. The electric blue eye roved over them, increasing their anxiety ten fold, everyone at the Ministry knew of the magical eye but it was shrouded in mystery as to what it was capable of and it only added to the persona that emanated from the man.
After what had seemed an age but had only been a couple of seconds, Moody nodded for them to follow him. The four fell into a comfortable diamond battle formation Patrick being point man at the front, Aggy and Danny flanking him and Sirius bringing up the rear. Unknown to the four a flicker of a smirk crossed the features of the revered Auror as he observed them with one of the abilities that the magical eye granted him.
In a small briefing room Moody had taken them through the major points of the operation and it was an hour later that the four friends found them selves standing at the apparition point awaiting the signal. If they had not been filled with dread before it was literally oozing from their pores now as Moody had made it clear to them that he would cut them loose if at any point he felt they were jeopardising the mission or the safety of the team. Knowing this each stood, eyes glued to the face of their commander and with the nod of his head the four-man team disappeared in the blink of an eye. Moody followed them a couple of seconds later and was pleased with the sight that awaited him. It also confirmed to him the information his eye had gained earlier.
Once again the diamond pattern had been formed, Aggy and Danny assessing the situation while Sirius and Patrick provided protection and cover for what Moody was sure were the brains of the operation. He had been prepared for this mission in advance and the assignment of these four had not been an accident but a carefully controlled placement. Every thing so far pointed to the fact that as far as Moody was concerned the files were right for once and these four worked seamlessly together.
Joining the small group Alastor Moody said, "Time to get this show on the road. Black, Boot stand guard and stun anything that moves." Turning Moody noted the pensive look on the girls face. "Well if you have anything to say spit it out girlie."
Sirius held his breath he had known Aggy Court long enough to know that that was not the best way to address her and he silently hoped her legendary temper would remain in check.
Top lip curled in distain at the reference but tension of the situation caused Aggy to falter slightly. "Well according to the intelligence we looked at the captive should be easy enough to locate once inside." Again Aggy faltered again as she noted the so what expression of the experience Auror. "I think it would be more effective if we create a distraction out here and two of us slip in, grab the prisoner."
Cutting in before she was finished Moody said, "Good plan but you forgot one little problem the place is heavily guarded." Noting the look on the girls face Moody decided in for a penny, in for a pound and decided to see what the girl was made of. "Listen girlie when I want your opinion I will give it to you."
At this Sirius turned his head slightly and wished he hadn't, the look on Aggy's face was one he had seen many times before and he prayed to every deity he could think of that she wouldn't lose it, but unfortunately it seemed that no one was listening.
Lip curled into a snarl that Aggy usually reserved for dealing with Sirius's inane pranks, she turned to face the older wizard. "Don't girlie me. If you could keep your over zealous ego in check long enough for me to finish what I was saying." Aggy paused taking a large breath before continuing. "Using the invisibility charm, two of us could easily manoeuvre the guards, retrieve the prisoner and get out undetected."
"Well Girlie, only one problem the charm I assume you are talking about only works for short periods of time and is not that effective on people."
"Shows how little you know," came the retort from one seriously pissed off Aggy Court.
Quickly pointing her wand at herself Aggy muttered an incantation and as the words left her lips so did Aggy's appearance from the view of the four wizards. Another muttered incantation and she reappeared rolling her eyes at the stunned faces before her. Once again Alastor Moody was impressed this girl was good.
"As you can see the charm has been improved and before you ask we also worked on the time frame, which now lasts as long as the caster maintains the spell or consciousness."
With that Moody decided to see what this girl was made of and how much it would take to break her. "You think your so clever girlie, well it's your show. Mess this up and you will be out of the Ministry for good."
After a second of panicking Aggy went into women's lib mode and decided to stuff the old git and show him what a girlie could do. Making a quick calculation Aggy decided that the best strategy would be for her and Sirius to go in, leaving the other three outside to create the diversion. No matter what else, Aggy knew that she could count on Sirius to do what was asked and to follow her lead. Outlining her plan to the others Aggy tried not to look at Moody, last thing she needed was him second-guessing her, but little did she know that the experienced Auror was right behind her.
Soon Aggy and Sirius found them selves cloaked and awaiting the upcoming distraction that would hopefully be enough to draw the attention of who ever was guarding the entrance. At the sight of the first death eater Aggy's nerve wavered but the nudge from Sirius got her back on task and moving towards the entrance. Once inside the pair quickly navigated the corridors, stunning the occasional dark wizard they came across which proved to be easier than they thought. Grabbing the prisoner on the other hand was more difficult as the sound of disembodied voices seemed to unnerve the man. Using the magical bind to communicate to Sirius to cover her, Aggy re-materialised before the traumatised wizard and assured him they were there to help.
In next to no time Aggy, Sirius and their charge were making their way back out of the holding facility and towards the rendezvous area. Again the magical properties of the roving blue eye indicated to Moody that a strategically retreat was in order and soon the five Ministry employees were stood together in a tight huddle around the target of their mission. Each laying a hand on the target of their mission Moody gave the signal to apparate out of the area.
With in seconds of them arriving at the Ministries apparition point medi- wizards had appeared and secured the injured man to a floating stretcher and whisked him away for treatment. Alastor Moody stood and eyed the four trainees carefully, first as a group and then each of them was given the once over. He noted to him self that this would be the first time that he would pass four trainees at the same time. Without a word he turned from them and headed for the hallowed halls of the Ministry building, on reaching the door he turned back to face them.
"Your done for the week. You'll get the results by owl."
Before any of them could ask a question or even make a noise in response he was gone, leaving four shell-shocked adolescents in his wake.
Sirius was the first to recover. "I'm going for a shower and then over to the Leaky Cauldron." Turning to face his friends he said, "Anyone interested in joining me?"
Three heads nodded at him, two sighed in relief that it was over for better or worse but the third face was pensive, Aggy Court had let her temper get the better of her yet again and it had put her out on a limb. The mission had been a success but she was well aware that she had been insolent to a commanding officer and had changed the orders rather than just followed them.
With a week off Aggy was charged with pulling the wedding plans together. They had just two weeks left before the big day and although everything was ready Annie was getting increasingly skittish as the days ticked by that the other three girls had removed a lot of the responsibility of the wedding from her shoulders. Annie's main job was to ensure the wedding clothes were finished and not to worry about anything else.
Much to Aggy's annoyance she had been instructed to get the boys sorted. Trying to get them all together in the same place took some effort but she eventually managed it. Corralling them in the sitting room of the their house, Aggy began.
"We have a number of things to get done, so I want not messing. Do I make myself clear?" Aggy asked as she eyed each boy in turn, the Gryffindors had seen that look before and even the mischievous Sirius Black paled slightly and nodded his head. The Ravenclaw's had heard about Aggy Court's temper but never witnessed it first hand but seeing the look of Black's face they instinctively knew that they had better just do as told. Please that she had there attention Aggy continued. "First we need to make sure your robes fit and then we will have a quick run through the wedding ceremony to make sure everyone knows what to do."
One by one each male was stood before Aggy who pulled at the robe they had slipped on until she was happy with it. A note was made to alter Sirius's slightly but other than that the fit was perfect, Annie had out done herself. Before long it was dinnertime and the friends were heading into Diagon Alley to meet the three remaining girls from their respective jobs, as this was the first time in weeks that James and Remus had managed to get away from Hogwarts for more than a couple of hours they had decided to make a night of it. While James, Danny and Sirius headed towards the main street the others headed for the Leaky Cauldron to secure a cosy sitting room from Tom and to get the first round of butterbeers ordered. In the main bar Tom the bar keeper smiled to himself at the loud raucous laughter that often filtered through from the small room at the side of the bar were the small group of ex-Hogwarts students were ensconced.
*~~~*~~~*~~~* A few days later found Aggy sitting nursing her early morning cup of tea and absently chatting to Lily who was getting ready for a morning at the Ministry. The light tapping at the window caught her attention and she noticed an owl was awaiting entry. It wasn't until she noticed the Ministry seal on the parchment that her heart rate soared to the point that she thought it might stop. Holding the envelope in shaky fingers Aggy stood in front of the old mirror a look of terror spreading over her face at the thought that she held her future in her hands. This was the scene that greeted Lily as she wandered back into the room from the kitchen.
"Aggy, you will never know if you don't open it?"
In a darting movement Aggy's eyes lifted from the small oblong to meet the bright green eyes of her friend and seeing the twinkle Aggy groaned before turning her gaze back down to her hands. Slowly she turned the envelope over and slid her fingernail under the edge of the seal, with a little pressure the wax cracked and the flap lifted. Taking a steadying breath Aggy manoeuvred the folded parchment out and opened it. Scanning the page quickly, her eyes widening and a large smile spreading over her soft pink lips told Lily all she needed to know.
Aggy lifted her eyes and immediately rolled her eyes at the look upon Lily's face. "I did it, I'm in. I have to report on Monday morning to the Auror division to find out who I'm being assigned to but I'm in, I'm a fully fledged Auror."
Finally both girls let go, Lily grabbed her and together they danced around the sitting room, both giggling like naughty schoolgirls.
~~*~~~*~~
With the careers of all the friends mapped out, an extra celebration was in order and as Thursday before the wedding rolled around, the small band of friends found them selves in what had become their room at the Leaky Cauldron. The pent up emotions of the four newly appointed Aurors were released and Tom the bartender was grateful that they were behind closed doors and the damage would be minimal. Even Annie Ryan managed to relax for the first time in weeks. Watching her friend, Lily assumed that Annie's disposition might have had something to do with the fact that her drinks seemed to bypass Sirius before reaching the unsuspecting dark haired witch.
Over the last three weeks Annie had slowly got more and more jittery about the upcoming nuptials between her and Danny. The careful façade that had been built was slowly crumbling around her ears and even her parents were on the verge of having the girl committed to St Mungo's for examination. This wasn't helped any by the sight of a seriously hung over teenager sitting at the table the next day or by the tearful display they were treated to as she prepared to leave home that evening to supposedly spend the weekend with her school friends in Diagon Alley.
Stood in the sitting room of her family home Annie slowly looked around and couldn't stop the tears from sliding down her cheeks and dripping from her chin. Biting her bottom lip, Annie took a deep breath before saying goodbye to her parents. If the performance of the last few weeks had them worried, this tear filled farewell had them well and truly befuddled. As their daughter popped out of the room, her father turned an eye upon his wife and uttered a single word in answer of his daughter's strange behaviour.
"Hormones!"
~~*~~~*~~
After congregating in the sitting room of Lily and Aggy's flat it wasn't long before the girls along with two very full trunks were disappearing from sight. Re-appearing in front of the Three Broomsticks the girls were greeted by Rosmerta. As many traditions were being upheld as possible, tonight would find the bridal party secluded away in the back rooms of the old pub, while the bachelors were to be found ensconced in the private rooms of Mr James Potter and Mr Remus Lupin.
Sleep finally over took each of them, their minds filled with times gone by and the memories of childhoods spent at Hogwarts school of witchcraft and wizardry.
~~*~~~*~~
At the twinkling of first light crept into the bedrooms of The Three Broomsticks, Annie Ryan was sat against the window of her room staring aimlessly at the languidly awaking village. Annie wasn't the only person contemplating the future that morning. Unable to help herself Aggy Court brushed haphazardly at the tear that had escaped at the thought of the upcoming wedding, it was the thought that the feelings dwelling within her would only get worse as the day wore on. She knew that the sight of the tall willowy boy she had known for seven years would be her undoing. Hatred so intense it coloured her vision and it seemed the world had been bathed in red as her mind wondered to the bigoted idiots she had only just sworn her allegiance too.
The cloud of melancholy that had settled around the dark haired beauty was soon dissipated by the frantic activity that overtook the small group of bedrooms as the final wedding preparations were put in place. Lily posted a plan of attack and in turn each girl was allotted a certain amount of time in the bathroom. With the bathing schedule completed four bath-robed girls sat around as Rosmerta delivered a scrumptious breakfast of hot waffles, pancakes, fruit and syrup. As the food was devoured and then coffee drunk at a leisurely pace the main topic of conversation turned to the best man and the mystery of who was to be his date for the wedding.
As the chime of the large clock in the bar downstairs drifted up through the old worn floorboards, Annie's mantra of 'Oh my god' began and for the next ten minutes it was the only response that they could get out of her. Finally with just fifteen minutes to go Annie Ryan was sitting in her underwear while her friends put the last of the finishing touches to the bride to be's make-up and hair. As the last to be dressed Annie took this moment to survey her handy work and smiled at the sight of her friends in the ensembles that she had created. The robes were still very traditional; resembling the photos she had seen in her mothers wedding album but the minor modifications she had made brought them right up to date.
Standing before her Annie smiled at each of her friends in turn, they looked simply stunning in the high empire line dresses of delicate cream satin. The soft golden shimmering organza over wraps draped beautifully, casting a golden glow that emphasised the hard point of the sleeve that was emblazoned with intricate gold and silver brocade. The weight of the embroidered brocade help the sleeve points stay in place and enveloped the hem of the dresses in a majestic beauty. A simple ring of cream rose buds entwined with vanilla and laurel adorned the hair of each girl.
As the last fabric covered button was fastened Annie stood back, her dress matched those of the bridesmaids in every detail but the colour. Gold shimmering organza this time fell with fluid grace over the deep red silk. The ring of cream rose buds were interspersed with lush red roses, causing the sleek black hair to resemble the night sky against a blood red moon.
A gentle knock at the door startled the four young women, heads turned to see the Rosmerta peep around the edge of the doorframe. Smiling at the older women a hand waved her into the room. A watchful eye in turn surveyed each girl that was damp with unshed tears by the time it reached the bride.
Smiling Rosmerta said, "As it is almost Samhain I wanted to give you this." To Annie's surprise Rosmerta handed her a hairpin of a small black cat that had been carved from a smooth jet stone.
To Rosmerta's surprise Annie handed it her back and then bowed her head and waited for the hairpin to be placed with in the garland of flowers.
The small jet pin brought home the symbolism that Annie had encompassed with the designs, colours and accessories.
Smiling at them all Rosmerta voiced what each was thinking. "Red for love, courage and passion, while silver is for inspiration and protection and gold for unity and prosperity. Roses and vanilla for love, health and success."
Lily was the first to move and she raised the folded veil so that it now rested upon the muslin that would protect it as they walked over to the chapel. It was time to leave, Rosmerta gently hugged each of the young women she had watched blossom from eleven year old babes to beautiful women. Long black cloaks were settled into place and swept to a close and so hiding the treasures beneath. Hoods carefully raised, the small precession moved along the street of Hogsmeade and made its way towards the awaiting chapel.
Rounding the corner, Annie cast a quick glance at her friends knowing that two of them had taken first sight of their own partners in the full splendour of the outfits she had prepared for the groomsmen.
James Potter and Remus Lupin had been assigned door duty and as the witches advanced upon them with an elegant bow they swiftly opened the large ornate oak doors. Once inside the anti chamber the doors were closed and with yet another bow the two young men took their leave and rejoined the rest of the grooms party. Inside the body of the chapel each male attendant had taken up position so that each of the four directions were warded and waited for their respective partners to join them in providing a protective circle for the ceremony. James stood to the north and was balanced by Remus to the south. His back to the east stood Sirius Black and facing him was Patrick Boot with his partner already by his side. Whose appearance had caused a few raised eyebrows but polite smiles caressed the handsome faces as the young woman was introduced. James smirked at Patrick who shrugged and then smiled at the face of the ex-head boy, who had unwittingly set the pair up. All five boys wore sly smiles as they thought of the looks on the faces of the four ex-Gryffindors who were about to come face to face with Scarlet Zabini.
Together the four men made an impressive sight, again Annie's symbolism had not gone a miss and the midnight blue robes that had been edged in the same silver and gold brocade radiated strength. In the centre of the diamond stood Danny in robes of jet black.
In a flurry of robes the anti chamber came top life, at the last moment before joining the neatly formed triangle, Lily fastened the soft gold veil to the ring of flowers and gasped in awe as it cascaded down Annie's back. As the tower clock chimed one the doors before them glided open and the ceremony of the marriage of Annie Ryan to Danny Brocklehurst was underway.
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A/N: Thanks for reading, please do leave a review but note that any flames will simply be removed. Constructive criticism or a suggestion for future chapters is always welcome but out right meanness is not welcome or wanted.
Thanks again
Madame Padfoot
This chapter is UN-BETAED and will be replaced with an edited version but I decided everyone had waited long enough.
Thank you for you patience and I promise this story will be finished.
~~*~~~*~~
** To have and to hold **
In a small flat in the hidden folds of Diagon Alley the tables were turned on Aggy Court as the infamous assessment day approached. It had only been a few weeks since Lily had gone through the stress of her first professional Quidditch game with Aggy on the side lines watching her friend drive her self crazy with worry and now she was in the same position. Over the last week she had often found her self pace the length of the little sitting room mumbling to her self and much to her annoyance she often caught her supposedly best friend chuckling over the top of a book on charms research.
Tomorrow was D-day for the four trainee Aurors. Lily knew her friend was ready but she also knew that no matter what she said Aggy would never accept this information as true, so she cut her losses for the night and wishing Aggy pleasant dreams and headed to bed. Nerves frazzled, Aggy stood in the middle of the tiny room and stared into the large old mirror and realized there was nothing left but to follow Lily's example and go to bed and hope.
It was an anxious Aggy Court that sat opposite Lily Evans the next morning nursing a hot cup of tea in the hope that it would settle the butterflies that seemed to be breeding a great rate of knots in her stomach. Unknown to Aggy the brew Lily had handed her contained a few added extras. Lily had strengthened their early morning drink with lemon for peace and angelica for protection. As time move on the girls got ready in silence and the short walk to the ministry seemed endless that morning.
Reaching the doors Lily turned to Aggy and hugged her tight. "Good luck, I'll see you tonight." Lily whispered.
"Thanks," was the only reply she got as they headed into the entrance to the old building.
Both nodded to the old witch sat at the reception desk, making it to the fireplace both girls were soon swirling through the Ministry's floo network to their respective departments.
Stepping into the room before her Aggy quickly dusted her robes down, removing the small specks of soot she had picked up and her short fire journey. Glancing around the squad room Aggy sighed with relief as she caught sight of the familiar dark head of Sirius Black. Quietly heading over towards him Aggy smiled to her self as she realized he hadn't seen her. Going into stealth mode Aggy crept up on the unsuspecting young man and on reaching him she stuck out her finger and poked him in the side.
The squeal that echoed around the room causing heads to turn in the direction of the girly sound and was exactly what Aggy needed to calm her nerves. Although the glare that found itself firmly planted on the handsome face of Sirius Black managed to achieve some of its purpose and Aggy bit her lip to quell the laughter that was rumbling in her throat.
Taking a deep breath Aggy apologised to her old housemate. "Sirius I'm sorry but I just couldn't resist."
Slowly a smile broke through the dark look on the normally mischievous face and with a roll of his eyes Sirius said, "Don't worry I'll hold it in reserve for later."
This earned him a smile but before Aggy could respond the sound of the head of the Auror training division boomed around the busy room. The loud booming voice silenced the room in an instant and twenty pairs of eyes all turned to look at the department chief. Stood next to her friends Aggy Court held her breath as the teams were announced and the assignments were issued. Feeling the warmth of a body close to her Aggy looked up to find a worried looking Danny Brocklehurst was stood right beside her. A quick glance to the left and Aggy found the same worried expressions on the handsome faces of both Sirius and Patrick.
Aggy was brought back to the reality of the situation as the chief's voice boomed all around them.
"Team three will consist of Black, Boot, Brocklehurst and Court. Your commander for this assignment is Moody and you will be taking part in a snatch and grab operation."
The four ex-Hogwarts students stood stock still, the tension flowing freely through them as they waited for the instructions for the final two groups to be announced. Finally five mission commanders appeared at the front of the squad room and motioned for their team of trainees to follow them.
The horror of their assigned leader had sunk into the four friends and as each looked up to see the gnarled face of Alastor Moody staring at them, dread and despair filled them. Moody was legendary around the Ministry and they had each snatched glimpses of him while completing their training. The man commanded respect even from a distance and being this close only intensified the feeling. He was renowned for his ruthlessness and determination to take prisoners alive, no matter what and it was this that had gained him the reputation he carried, along with the rumours about the ferocity of his interrogation skills. For the unfortunate four who had received looks of pity from their fellow trainees it was the fact that Alastor Moody was well known to have no tolerance for trainees, which he referred to as 'green sticks'. Also what was more than rumour was the fact that more often than not trainee female Aurors assigned to Moody did not pass the final assessment.
Nervously standing before the somewhat ragged looking wizard it was hard not to notice the face that was beginning to resemble the lines of a map due to the collection of battle scars that ran haphazardly over the marled skin that was stretched tight over the bones. The electric blue eye roved over them, increasing their anxiety ten fold, everyone at the Ministry knew of the magical eye but it was shrouded in mystery as to what it was capable of and it only added to the persona that emanated from the man.
After what had seemed an age but had only been a couple of seconds, Moody nodded for them to follow him. The four fell into a comfortable diamond battle formation Patrick being point man at the front, Aggy and Danny flanking him and Sirius bringing up the rear. Unknown to the four a flicker of a smirk crossed the features of the revered Auror as he observed them with one of the abilities that the magical eye granted him.
In a small briefing room Moody had taken them through the major points of the operation and it was an hour later that the four friends found them selves standing at the apparition point awaiting the signal. If they had not been filled with dread before it was literally oozing from their pores now as Moody had made it clear to them that he would cut them loose if at any point he felt they were jeopardising the mission or the safety of the team. Knowing this each stood, eyes glued to the face of their commander and with the nod of his head the four-man team disappeared in the blink of an eye. Moody followed them a couple of seconds later and was pleased with the sight that awaited him. It also confirmed to him the information his eye had gained earlier.
Once again the diamond pattern had been formed, Aggy and Danny assessing the situation while Sirius and Patrick provided protection and cover for what Moody was sure were the brains of the operation. He had been prepared for this mission in advance and the assignment of these four had not been an accident but a carefully controlled placement. Every thing so far pointed to the fact that as far as Moody was concerned the files were right for once and these four worked seamlessly together.
Joining the small group Alastor Moody said, "Time to get this show on the road. Black, Boot stand guard and stun anything that moves." Turning Moody noted the pensive look on the girls face. "Well if you have anything to say spit it out girlie."
Sirius held his breath he had known Aggy Court long enough to know that that was not the best way to address her and he silently hoped her legendary temper would remain in check.
Top lip curled in distain at the reference but tension of the situation caused Aggy to falter slightly. "Well according to the intelligence we looked at the captive should be easy enough to locate once inside." Again Aggy faltered again as she noted the so what expression of the experience Auror. "I think it would be more effective if we create a distraction out here and two of us slip in, grab the prisoner."
Cutting in before she was finished Moody said, "Good plan but you forgot one little problem the place is heavily guarded." Noting the look on the girls face Moody decided in for a penny, in for a pound and decided to see what the girl was made of. "Listen girlie when I want your opinion I will give it to you."
At this Sirius turned his head slightly and wished he hadn't, the look on Aggy's face was one he had seen many times before and he prayed to every deity he could think of that she wouldn't lose it, but unfortunately it seemed that no one was listening.
Lip curled into a snarl that Aggy usually reserved for dealing with Sirius's inane pranks, she turned to face the older wizard. "Don't girlie me. If you could keep your over zealous ego in check long enough for me to finish what I was saying." Aggy paused taking a large breath before continuing. "Using the invisibility charm, two of us could easily manoeuvre the guards, retrieve the prisoner and get out undetected."
"Well Girlie, only one problem the charm I assume you are talking about only works for short periods of time and is not that effective on people."
"Shows how little you know," came the retort from one seriously pissed off Aggy Court.
Quickly pointing her wand at herself Aggy muttered an incantation and as the words left her lips so did Aggy's appearance from the view of the four wizards. Another muttered incantation and she reappeared rolling her eyes at the stunned faces before her. Once again Alastor Moody was impressed this girl was good.
"As you can see the charm has been improved and before you ask we also worked on the time frame, which now lasts as long as the caster maintains the spell or consciousness."
With that Moody decided to see what this girl was made of and how much it would take to break her. "You think your so clever girlie, well it's your show. Mess this up and you will be out of the Ministry for good."
After a second of panicking Aggy went into women's lib mode and decided to stuff the old git and show him what a girlie could do. Making a quick calculation Aggy decided that the best strategy would be for her and Sirius to go in, leaving the other three outside to create the diversion. No matter what else, Aggy knew that she could count on Sirius to do what was asked and to follow her lead. Outlining her plan to the others Aggy tried not to look at Moody, last thing she needed was him second-guessing her, but little did she know that the experienced Auror was right behind her.
Soon Aggy and Sirius found them selves cloaked and awaiting the upcoming distraction that would hopefully be enough to draw the attention of who ever was guarding the entrance. At the sight of the first death eater Aggy's nerve wavered but the nudge from Sirius got her back on task and moving towards the entrance. Once inside the pair quickly navigated the corridors, stunning the occasional dark wizard they came across which proved to be easier than they thought. Grabbing the prisoner on the other hand was more difficult as the sound of disembodied voices seemed to unnerve the man. Using the magical bind to communicate to Sirius to cover her, Aggy re-materialised before the traumatised wizard and assured him they were there to help.
In next to no time Aggy, Sirius and their charge were making their way back out of the holding facility and towards the rendezvous area. Again the magical properties of the roving blue eye indicated to Moody that a strategically retreat was in order and soon the five Ministry employees were stood together in a tight huddle around the target of their mission. Each laying a hand on the target of their mission Moody gave the signal to apparate out of the area.
With in seconds of them arriving at the Ministries apparition point medi- wizards had appeared and secured the injured man to a floating stretcher and whisked him away for treatment. Alastor Moody stood and eyed the four trainees carefully, first as a group and then each of them was given the once over. He noted to him self that this would be the first time that he would pass four trainees at the same time. Without a word he turned from them and headed for the hallowed halls of the Ministry building, on reaching the door he turned back to face them.
"Your done for the week. You'll get the results by owl."
Before any of them could ask a question or even make a noise in response he was gone, leaving four shell-shocked adolescents in his wake.
Sirius was the first to recover. "I'm going for a shower and then over to the Leaky Cauldron." Turning to face his friends he said, "Anyone interested in joining me?"
Three heads nodded at him, two sighed in relief that it was over for better or worse but the third face was pensive, Aggy Court had let her temper get the better of her yet again and it had put her out on a limb. The mission had been a success but she was well aware that she had been insolent to a commanding officer and had changed the orders rather than just followed them.
With a week off Aggy was charged with pulling the wedding plans together. They had just two weeks left before the big day and although everything was ready Annie was getting increasingly skittish as the days ticked by that the other three girls had removed a lot of the responsibility of the wedding from her shoulders. Annie's main job was to ensure the wedding clothes were finished and not to worry about anything else.
Much to Aggy's annoyance she had been instructed to get the boys sorted. Trying to get them all together in the same place took some effort but she eventually managed it. Corralling them in the sitting room of the their house, Aggy began.
"We have a number of things to get done, so I want not messing. Do I make myself clear?" Aggy asked as she eyed each boy in turn, the Gryffindors had seen that look before and even the mischievous Sirius Black paled slightly and nodded his head. The Ravenclaw's had heard about Aggy Court's temper but never witnessed it first hand but seeing the look of Black's face they instinctively knew that they had better just do as told. Please that she had there attention Aggy continued. "First we need to make sure your robes fit and then we will have a quick run through the wedding ceremony to make sure everyone knows what to do."
One by one each male was stood before Aggy who pulled at the robe they had slipped on until she was happy with it. A note was made to alter Sirius's slightly but other than that the fit was perfect, Annie had out done herself. Before long it was dinnertime and the friends were heading into Diagon Alley to meet the three remaining girls from their respective jobs, as this was the first time in weeks that James and Remus had managed to get away from Hogwarts for more than a couple of hours they had decided to make a night of it. While James, Danny and Sirius headed towards the main street the others headed for the Leaky Cauldron to secure a cosy sitting room from Tom and to get the first round of butterbeers ordered. In the main bar Tom the bar keeper smiled to himself at the loud raucous laughter that often filtered through from the small room at the side of the bar were the small group of ex-Hogwarts students were ensconced.
*~~~*~~~*~~~* A few days later found Aggy sitting nursing her early morning cup of tea and absently chatting to Lily who was getting ready for a morning at the Ministry. The light tapping at the window caught her attention and she noticed an owl was awaiting entry. It wasn't until she noticed the Ministry seal on the parchment that her heart rate soared to the point that she thought it might stop. Holding the envelope in shaky fingers Aggy stood in front of the old mirror a look of terror spreading over her face at the thought that she held her future in her hands. This was the scene that greeted Lily as she wandered back into the room from the kitchen.
"Aggy, you will never know if you don't open it?"
In a darting movement Aggy's eyes lifted from the small oblong to meet the bright green eyes of her friend and seeing the twinkle Aggy groaned before turning her gaze back down to her hands. Slowly she turned the envelope over and slid her fingernail under the edge of the seal, with a little pressure the wax cracked and the flap lifted. Taking a steadying breath Aggy manoeuvred the folded parchment out and opened it. Scanning the page quickly, her eyes widening and a large smile spreading over her soft pink lips told Lily all she needed to know.
Aggy lifted her eyes and immediately rolled her eyes at the look upon Lily's face. "I did it, I'm in. I have to report on Monday morning to the Auror division to find out who I'm being assigned to but I'm in, I'm a fully fledged Auror."
Finally both girls let go, Lily grabbed her and together they danced around the sitting room, both giggling like naughty schoolgirls.
~~*~~~*~~
With the careers of all the friends mapped out, an extra celebration was in order and as Thursday before the wedding rolled around, the small band of friends found them selves in what had become their room at the Leaky Cauldron. The pent up emotions of the four newly appointed Aurors were released and Tom the bartender was grateful that they were behind closed doors and the damage would be minimal. Even Annie Ryan managed to relax for the first time in weeks. Watching her friend, Lily assumed that Annie's disposition might have had something to do with the fact that her drinks seemed to bypass Sirius before reaching the unsuspecting dark haired witch.
Over the last three weeks Annie had slowly got more and more jittery about the upcoming nuptials between her and Danny. The careful façade that had been built was slowly crumbling around her ears and even her parents were on the verge of having the girl committed to St Mungo's for examination. This wasn't helped any by the sight of a seriously hung over teenager sitting at the table the next day or by the tearful display they were treated to as she prepared to leave home that evening to supposedly spend the weekend with her school friends in Diagon Alley.
Stood in the sitting room of her family home Annie slowly looked around and couldn't stop the tears from sliding down her cheeks and dripping from her chin. Biting her bottom lip, Annie took a deep breath before saying goodbye to her parents. If the performance of the last few weeks had them worried, this tear filled farewell had them well and truly befuddled. As their daughter popped out of the room, her father turned an eye upon his wife and uttered a single word in answer of his daughter's strange behaviour.
"Hormones!"
~~*~~~*~~
After congregating in the sitting room of Lily and Aggy's flat it wasn't long before the girls along with two very full trunks were disappearing from sight. Re-appearing in front of the Three Broomsticks the girls were greeted by Rosmerta. As many traditions were being upheld as possible, tonight would find the bridal party secluded away in the back rooms of the old pub, while the bachelors were to be found ensconced in the private rooms of Mr James Potter and Mr Remus Lupin.
Sleep finally over took each of them, their minds filled with times gone by and the memories of childhoods spent at Hogwarts school of witchcraft and wizardry.
~~*~~~*~~
At the twinkling of first light crept into the bedrooms of The Three Broomsticks, Annie Ryan was sat against the window of her room staring aimlessly at the languidly awaking village. Annie wasn't the only person contemplating the future that morning. Unable to help herself Aggy Court brushed haphazardly at the tear that had escaped at the thought of the upcoming wedding, it was the thought that the feelings dwelling within her would only get worse as the day wore on. She knew that the sight of the tall willowy boy she had known for seven years would be her undoing. Hatred so intense it coloured her vision and it seemed the world had been bathed in red as her mind wondered to the bigoted idiots she had only just sworn her allegiance too.
The cloud of melancholy that had settled around the dark haired beauty was soon dissipated by the frantic activity that overtook the small group of bedrooms as the final wedding preparations were put in place. Lily posted a plan of attack and in turn each girl was allotted a certain amount of time in the bathroom. With the bathing schedule completed four bath-robed girls sat around as Rosmerta delivered a scrumptious breakfast of hot waffles, pancakes, fruit and syrup. As the food was devoured and then coffee drunk at a leisurely pace the main topic of conversation turned to the best man and the mystery of who was to be his date for the wedding.
As the chime of the large clock in the bar downstairs drifted up through the old worn floorboards, Annie's mantra of 'Oh my god' began and for the next ten minutes it was the only response that they could get out of her. Finally with just fifteen minutes to go Annie Ryan was sitting in her underwear while her friends put the last of the finishing touches to the bride to be's make-up and hair. As the last to be dressed Annie took this moment to survey her handy work and smiled at the sight of her friends in the ensembles that she had created. The robes were still very traditional; resembling the photos she had seen in her mothers wedding album but the minor modifications she had made brought them right up to date.
Standing before her Annie smiled at each of her friends in turn, they looked simply stunning in the high empire line dresses of delicate cream satin. The soft golden shimmering organza over wraps draped beautifully, casting a golden glow that emphasised the hard point of the sleeve that was emblazoned with intricate gold and silver brocade. The weight of the embroidered brocade help the sleeve points stay in place and enveloped the hem of the dresses in a majestic beauty. A simple ring of cream rose buds entwined with vanilla and laurel adorned the hair of each girl.
As the last fabric covered button was fastened Annie stood back, her dress matched those of the bridesmaids in every detail but the colour. Gold shimmering organza this time fell with fluid grace over the deep red silk. The ring of cream rose buds were interspersed with lush red roses, causing the sleek black hair to resemble the night sky against a blood red moon.
A gentle knock at the door startled the four young women, heads turned to see the Rosmerta peep around the edge of the doorframe. Smiling at the older women a hand waved her into the room. A watchful eye in turn surveyed each girl that was damp with unshed tears by the time it reached the bride.
Smiling Rosmerta said, "As it is almost Samhain I wanted to give you this." To Annie's surprise Rosmerta handed her a hairpin of a small black cat that had been carved from a smooth jet stone.
To Rosmerta's surprise Annie handed it her back and then bowed her head and waited for the hairpin to be placed with in the garland of flowers.
The small jet pin brought home the symbolism that Annie had encompassed with the designs, colours and accessories.
Smiling at them all Rosmerta voiced what each was thinking. "Red for love, courage and passion, while silver is for inspiration and protection and gold for unity and prosperity. Roses and vanilla for love, health and success."
Lily was the first to move and she raised the folded veil so that it now rested upon the muslin that would protect it as they walked over to the chapel. It was time to leave, Rosmerta gently hugged each of the young women she had watched blossom from eleven year old babes to beautiful women. Long black cloaks were settled into place and swept to a close and so hiding the treasures beneath. Hoods carefully raised, the small precession moved along the street of Hogsmeade and made its way towards the awaiting chapel.
Rounding the corner, Annie cast a quick glance at her friends knowing that two of them had taken first sight of their own partners in the full splendour of the outfits she had prepared for the groomsmen.
James Potter and Remus Lupin had been assigned door duty and as the witches advanced upon them with an elegant bow they swiftly opened the large ornate oak doors. Once inside the anti chamber the doors were closed and with yet another bow the two young men took their leave and rejoined the rest of the grooms party. Inside the body of the chapel each male attendant had taken up position so that each of the four directions were warded and waited for their respective partners to join them in providing a protective circle for the ceremony. James stood to the north and was balanced by Remus to the south. His back to the east stood Sirius Black and facing him was Patrick Boot with his partner already by his side. Whose appearance had caused a few raised eyebrows but polite smiles caressed the handsome faces as the young woman was introduced. James smirked at Patrick who shrugged and then smiled at the face of the ex-head boy, who had unwittingly set the pair up. All five boys wore sly smiles as they thought of the looks on the faces of the four ex-Gryffindors who were about to come face to face with Scarlet Zabini.
Together the four men made an impressive sight, again Annie's symbolism had not gone a miss and the midnight blue robes that had been edged in the same silver and gold brocade radiated strength. In the centre of the diamond stood Danny in robes of jet black.
In a flurry of robes the anti chamber came top life, at the last moment before joining the neatly formed triangle, Lily fastened the soft gold veil to the ring of flowers and gasped in awe as it cascaded down Annie's back. As the tower clock chimed one the doors before them glided open and the ceremony of the marriage of Annie Ryan to Danny Brocklehurst was underway.
~~*~~~*~~
A/N: Thanks for reading, please do leave a review but note that any flames will simply be removed. Constructive criticism or a suggestion for future chapters is always welcome but out right meanness is not welcome or wanted.
Thanks again
Madame Padfoot