Chapter 25: Day Six
Just going to answer a few questions/comments: PLEASE READ THIS!!
Thanks for all your concern! I really appreciated hearing you all ask about me. It was nothing fatal... just those teenage mood swings that come around a bit too often for my liking. You know them well as, "Even though I'm almost fourteen I have NO idea what to do with my life!" But it's a lot more complicated than that. Thanks anyway!
In last chapter I got a few comments about Lily telling her father what James and her did. She did do it for a reason... hard to believe I know. In this time of Lily and James' life, they know that the risk is high for them to be killed; life is too short to not be open and honest with your family and friends. She knows that, though I don't bluntly say it. This chapter is around what happened in last chapter, it also talks more about Lily and James' relationship together, and with both Lily's parents and James' father.
One person asked what's the big deal of Lily saying an Unforgivable. She didn't SAY it... she hit Voldemort with that spell. You can go to Azkaban for that. Crouch (senior) will be mentioned more and more in this story as it progresses. Remember he was all for using the curses so that they had a better chance against the D.E. and Voldemort.
Someone mixed up the way last chapter's battle took place between Voldemort, Lily and James. This is what confused that person.
" "Take your best shot," said Voldemort in a voice that made you unable to tell he was infuriated with me.
"Petrificus Totalus!"
"CRUCIO!"
"Lily!" exclaimed James, as Voldemort stumbled back and quietly fell to the ground. "
Voldemort DID NOT send a curse in that scene. James sent the Petrificus Totalus hex, and Lily used the Unforgivable. No, I didn't type that wrong. Voldemort was taunting them, "Take your best shot." As in, send whatever hexes you want. Because Petrificus Totalus makes your body stiff, and Crucio is the Unforgivable that tortures you, Lily and James were powerful enough (together) to knock Voldemort off his feet.
Lastly: People have said that the Voldemort battle was too unexpected. I wonder if you read the story closely enough. In chapter fourteen who died? Of course, James' mum! The Potter's are obviously a highly-thought of family by Muggles and Wizards alike. They weren't on Voldemort's side, even though they could have been. They are in danger of getting killed, since they are not on Voldemort's side. In chapter twenty three there was an attack... where was the attack? By Lily's house! There's foreshadowing for you. Also... many thought it was stupid that Voldemort attacked Lily and James, when there were other people he could have attacked. What you must realize is that Voldemort has as many, if not more, spies than Dumbledore and the Order; not to mention the one that's closest to Lily and James. He knows of the skills of the Head Boy and Girl. Remember, Dumbledore has spies too; he knew of the attack through information. Last chapter was setting up this chapter which holds a lot of information and sets up Lily and James' future. Voldemort WAS NOT at Petunia's wedding. One girl said that the chapter was ridiculous because "Voldemort attacked them at Petunia's wedding out of nowhere." First off, it was at Lily's house that they were attacked, and I already proved that Voldemort has spies that feed him information; that's why he attacked! You'll find out more here!
Disclaimer: I own nothing!
I thank you if you read all those notes above. It's really important for you to understand last chapter. Once Defied... two more battles coming up! Stay on your guard!
Day Six
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"Look, Mr. Evans we—"
"Richard, honestly!"
"Don't get into the middle of this Rose. Do you KNOW what they did?"
"We used protection—"
"It's my daughter! My little girl—"
"She's my daughter, too!"
"I have total confidence that James wouldn't have done it unless he was completely sure that Lily was ready—"
"Stay out of this, Dad! Stop defending—"
"You want me to stop defending you—?"
"Yes! I hate—"
"This is about my daughter! Not—"
I popped up in my bed, having a severe head ache. I looked up at my parents, James, and Mr. Potter. James was sitting up next to me. I realized we were in James' room; James and I were in James' bed.
"Your relationship is over! I will have you nowhere near my daughter—!"
"Daddy!"
"Lily, you're awake," said my mother coming over and pulling me into a tight hug. I glared over her shoulder at my father.
"What the bloody hell is going on?" I demanded.
"You know damn well what's going on!"
"You're breaking James and I up for doing what eighteen year olds do?!"
"I was under the impression that you and James didn't do that," said my father coldly.
I threw the covers off of me and walked towards my dad. "I can do what I damn well please! I just faced the most evil wizard in the world, I used and Unforgivable curse, and I survived to tell you about it! Try me, Dad."
My father stared at me, and then looked away. My mother stood up and walked towards my father, then rested her arms around him. I rolled my eyes.
"We did it once and you're acting like it's a big deal!" I said in exasperation.
"It's a big deal to me," muttered my father.
"Let me tell you something," I said, pointing my finger at him accusingly. "I love James will all of my heart. I give him one-hundred percent of myself, body and mind. I want to spend the rest of my life with him. I want to have his children, and I want to die by his side. Don't tell me what I can and cannot do. Don't even try to break us up. You have no power over us."
I fell back on the bed clutching my head. James reached out and touched my hand getting my attention him.
"Lil?"
"What potion did I take?"
"You didn't take any potion."
"My head hurts," I complained softly.
He pulled me up by my hips, onto his lap. I closed my eyes and rested my head on his chest. He rocked me back and forth slightly.
"Rose..."
"Richard," said my mum, and I opened my eyes to see my mum giving him a warning look. "You're outnumbered, love."
"Mr. Evans," I heard James say. "You have my word that I'll never hurt, Lily. I love her more than either of you can understand. I've loved her for years."
"You have no control over me," I added loudly.
I leaned up and kissed James and roughly as I could. At first he was taken aback but then he started kissing me more forcefully... more lovingly. I sensed my father's disapproval but it only made me kiss James unlike I had ever had. Once my head started hurting too much I stopped the kiss.
"We do have control over you, Lily," said my father.
I rolled my eyes. "I've decided something. I want... I want to spend the rest of my life fighting for the safety of Wizards."
I felt James stir underneath me. "You want to become an Auror?"
"The very least," I prompted sitting up in bed. "I'll need to talk to Professor Dumbledore about the defenses—"
"I know about the defenses," cut in Mr. Potter. "Albus has come to me many of times with news of the Order."
"What's the Order?" I asked quietly.
"It's a group made for the defenses against Voldemort. Even common Wizards can be in it... you needn't bother being an Auror."
"Are you in it, Dad?"
"Heaves no—"
"Why not?" ordered James.
"Lily you can't risk your life... you can be with James. Don't bother risking your life because of this disagreement—"
"It's not that, Mum. When I hit Voldemort with that Unforgivable curse... something went through me... something indescribable."
"Which on did you use?"
"Cruciatus curse," I answered promptly.
Mr. Potter shook his head. "You could be in serious trouble you know. Had not Crouch won the approval of using those curses against Voldemort."
"I only used it because he used it on James."
"What?" choked Mr. Potter. "You never said anything about you being hit with the Cruciatus curse!"
James shrugged. I looked between the father and son that were exchanging looks. James looked like he didn't care. Mr. Potter was upset beyond belief. And it was strange to see.
"It's not that big of a deal."
"Oh, yes! Yes it is James! That's serious!"
"Why do you care? You never had before... I don't care, Dad. I'm fine... just drop it." James looked away and his father closed his mouth promptly before returning his attention to my parents.
"Lily," said my father. Apparently, we were having two conversations in one. I brought my attention back to my father. "You told me that you lived for James yesterday. That you loved him above all else... Why are you throwing it all away by going off to fight?"
"If I don't fight, who else will!?"
"Order members are in more danger," said Mr. Potter quietly.
"You can't change my mind, Dad—"
"Don't we have your love, Lily?"
"It has nothing to do with love," I shook my head, whispering my opinion. "I want to save the world I love... the people I love. I want to fight... even if James doesn't want to."
Unexpectedly James spoke up quickly. "Of course I want to help... I want to kill those bastards that killed my mum!"
James father sat down on the chair, running a hand through his hair. "You wish that I would have taken your mother's place... don't you James? That I would have died... instead of your mother?"
James didn't answer. I looked between the two, my eyes brimming with tears. It's not possible to believe that, is it? James loved his father; even when he was mad. James didn't want either of his parents dead... did he?
"James? Lily?"
At the same moment we both looked up at the man that had become our saviour now. His eyes had light lines that made him looking even more elderly, and more tired then his thin body would give away. His eyes held that same sparkle... but how could it have? The guilt consumed me. The first thing I should have asked when I had woken up was the welfare of the greatest teacher I'd ever had. Amazingly enough he stepped forward, wishing my parents a cheerful hello. I sat up out of James' arms and went over towards him, James by my side.
"Professor... how are you, sir? What happened with Vold—You-Know-Who?"
"Call him by his proper name, Miss Evans," ordered Dumbledore quietly; I nodded. "He fled when the Ministry officials arrived."
"How—how did you know he was coming to attack us?" asked James incredulously then added hastily, "Sir?"
"I've got my sources, Mr. Potter."
"Who?"
"A boy... a boy with a problem... I won't say anymore."
Somehow he had that stature that made even the loudest of people quiet. Maybe it was the fact that he, even at the age he was at, could have complete control over everything, and could utterly be the best of the Marauders if he choose to; he was intelligent, mischievous and had that sort of look to him... like he had a secret. Or maybe it was because his voice was captivating regardless of if he was a foot away of half way across the Great Hall. Most likely it was because he's the greatest wizard in the world; and he brings fear to the eyes of the most evil wizard to pass through Hogwarts thresholds. I sighed as he began to speak again.
"You two showed extraordinary resistance to the power Lord Voldemort. I admit that I tried my hardest to get there as fast as I possibly could. I won't pester you with the thoughts but I have something serious to discuss with the two of you," he spoke solemnly but he still took a breath before talking. "Lord Voldemort knew you were going to the wedding this week... Coincidence that he happened to turn up?"
"Highly unlikely," I answered easily. "You're saying someone close to us is in line with Voldemort?"
"Perhaps," answered James. "Maybe he's just saying that information leaked out. You know how Sirius is. He might have told the whole common room... A big rumour could have been spread saying we went to get married on our own. You know the possibilities of what Sirius could spread around."
Dumbledore's eyes, oddly enough started sparkling. "Good assessments."
"I see what you mean, James. But what if someone we know is in line with Voldemort? How can we trust everyone?"
"Abbott," he answered promptly.
"John?" I asked incredulously. "I think you've been mistaken... He's my friend—"
"He went to Durmstrang for four years—"
"Don't be stereotypical—"
"I'm just giving suggestions," he said solemnly.
"It could be anyone around us, James. Any one of our classmates could have told Death Eaters... They could have been Death Eaters themselves—"
"Like Snape," said James loudly. I shot a look at him. Dumbledore seemed to move uneasily in his seat; but as I looked over at the elderly professor it was like I had imagined him move uncomfortably.
"I trust a lot of people in this world James. We can't go jumping to conclusions!"
"I'm just saying... We need to be careful what we say if we want to fight it—"
"Fight it?" inquired the Headmaster.
"James and I... have talked about joining the Order..."
"The Order of the Phoenix?"
"Mr. Potter told us about it... he said you were in charge and it's a group of Wizards that fight Voldemort."
"Yes... that's the Order I founded. Are you completely sure you want to join it for the right reasons, Miss Evans? Mr. Potter?"
James looked at the old man. "I'm not doing this solely for the purpose of avenging her death," he answered quietly. "I want to fight along side Lily... who is in danger and it one-hundred percent into the idea of fighting for this cause. I want to do it... I want to save lives but I also have other reasons, Professor—"
"I completely understand," answered the old man. "I know it's difficult to be for a cause of good without having more than one intention; saving the ones you love... like Miss Evans and her family... your friends like Mr. Lupin who have naught a fair chance to prove themselves... I know this is particularly for Mary... but don't use this the wrong way, James.
"The Order of the Phoenix is a group of witches and wizards that are anti- Voldemort. They protect those unable to protect themselves and even those who are able. They range from spies to representatives. The point is, almost everyone has a job to do in the Order. Tailing Death Eaters... some even go undercover as Death Eaters... double agents I guess you could call them."
I could feel my eyes go glazed over, as I listen to Dumbledore talk of the cause I was willing to fight for.
"Can we bring other people in that want to fight?"
"Who do you have in mind?"
"Dorcas... Edgar—"
"Sirius, Remus, Peter—"
"We'll discuss it when we go back to school. For now... I think you two ought to rest. Mr. Crouch will be along to talk to you around supper time—"
"Why?" I asked loudly.
His eyes lost the twinkle in them. "The use of the Cruciatus curse, Miss Evans."
"Am I in trouble? What's he going to do, sir? Might I be asked to fight or become an Auror?"
"If you wish to become an Order member, Miss Evans, I highly suggest you listen intently to what Mr. Crouch has to say. Analyze the situations as you did with the leaked information of the wedding. He might ask you to be in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement... working alongside Amos Diggory..." Dumbledore looked wonderingly at his long fingernails. "Of course... that wouldn't make any sense... Amos Diggory works in the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures... but then again, I never really understood Mr. Crouch's theories..."
He stood up from his chair, nodded around the room. "I'll be in touch with you all later. You two," he said nodding our way. "Ought to rest... I may be old... but I know the effects the Cruciatus curse has on people; especially young people."
(A/N: I used the GoF to get information for this chapter... while I was reading it I starting thinking something... Did anyone else find it odd that Dobby... who was in a family of Dark Wizards, did you find it odd that he was friends with Winky, who was in a family of Dark Wizard hunters?)
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"I need to speak with her," insisted a strong voice.
"She's asleep, sir. Cannot you come back later?"
"I've got a job to do, woman. I'm not spending my entire day waiting for a girl just because she's asleep!"
"She got hit with the Cruciatus curse!" insisted the woman.
"More of the right for me to talk to her!" called the voice again, pushing open a door and walking into the room I was in. I opened my eye to see a man looking at me. He had sort brown hair, which was unrightfully going gray around the edges; along with a thin mustache that made him look like the most proper man I had ever seen.
"Miss Evans?" he asked in a strongly confident voice of intelligence.
I sat up in bed and shook his hand. "Mr. Crouch?"
"Yes... I've heard from my sources that you survived and encounter with Voldemort... is that true?"
I nodded solemnly. "My boyfriend and I survived his attack; both of us were hit with the Cruciatus curse."
"Your boyfriend?" he asked, sitting down on the chair by my bedside table.
"James Potter, sir. The Minister's son."
A look of interest fled over his face. I had heard stories of him, even being the Muggle-born that I am. He is completely obsessed with getting to be the Minister of Magic someday. I can't help but wonder what effect this will have when he questions me.
"Is he interested in going into politics?" inquired the man with much interest. I shook my head no, and he sighed in relief. "Absolutely positive—?"
"I thought you were questioning her about the events that happened yesterday."
"Yes... yes, I was—I am..." Mr. Crouch and I both looked up to find Mr. Potter walk into the room; James stopped in his tracks at the thresholds of the room. "I was wondering if you'd like to come and work for me after school. I've heard of how strong you are, Miss Evans. Amos Diggory has been interested in a job working for the Ministry as an Auror. Training is easier now... six months of hard work will make up for three regular years. With the rise of You-Know-Who the need of Aurors has increased. That is, of course, why he's willing to be your partner and help you get all the training you need—"
"I would—"
"Sorry, but she can't," said James, stepping into the room towards Mr. Crouch. "She's going to work with me. We're both going to be... teachers at Hogwarts."
"Excuse me?" I said loudly, but not loud enough for James to meet my eye.
"I wasn't aware. I didn't know there were empty positions at Hogwarts that will need filling," said Mr. Crouch more solemnly.
"There isn't—"James covered my mouth with his hand. I pulled it off and sent him a look. "Can you excuse us?"
Mr. Crouch nodded quietly, turning his attention to Mr. Potter; I suppose they would talk about the only civil thing they could... Quidditch. I followed James into the hallway where he turned to look at me. I stared at him, in his eyes trying to figure out what he was doing.
"James! What are you going on about? We're not being teachers!"
"I'm not having you work with Diggory!"
"And why not?"
"I knew you guys went out for five months in our fifth year! You broke up when he graduated!"
"And how do you know he hasn't got a wife?"
"I know everything," he said quickly. "Besides... I know he still has feelings for you—"
"So you won't let me work with Amos because you think I'll leave you for him, is that it?"
James nodded as though it wasn't a big deal; as though he has every right to be afraid to lose me. I rolled my eyes and crossed my arms as he continued on. "I'm not losing you to that prat of a man—"
"What?! Do we have to get married before you let me work with other men?"
He registered the thought. "You want to get married?!"
"Nice proposal," I said dully. "You've got to trust me—"
"I trust you. Just not Amos wanker Diggory—"
"You're acting absolutely ridiculous! If you don't want me to be partnered with Amos... or rather you don't want me to spend time without you, why don't you just become an Auror, too?"
He stared at me for a moment. "I'm not the one having Master Bart Crouch come to me and ask me to work with him."
"You're such a bad jealous boyfriend, you know that?" I asked laughing. He looked at me, upset that I was making a joke out of his feelings. My anger and feisty stamina of earlier was now replaced with amusement.
"So you're saying you wouldn't care if I worked around a load of girls?" he asked raising his eye brows.
"I trust you, you know?"
"But do you trust the girls?"
"I trust you'll make the right decision if the time comes for you to be with the girls," I said smiling with complete confidence.
"I still don't want you—"I ended his sentence quickly by leaning up and pulling him into a kiss. He deepened it without question and I wrapped my arms around his neck, kissing him fuller. When he broke apart he stumbled back. "Whoa."
I laughed lightly, taking his hand in mine. "I love you, James Potter. Whether or not you recognize me as a trustworthy person I'm not going to leave you. Besides... I'm almost certain a good-looking guy like Amos has already found himself a wife."
"So you think he's good-looking?" James asked loudly.
"Do I have to kiss you for you to let this go?"
"It wouldn't hurt," he said laughing, as we walked into the room.
Standing there, next to Mr. Potter and Mr. Crouch was my exboyfriend Amos Diggory. His broad shoulders were just as I remembered them. He turned around sweeping me into a hug and it was like I was brought back in time to when I was fifteen, and he was seventeen. As we pulled away I looked back into his eyes that were still the same gray-blue and his smile was still genuine... he was still as good-looking as I had remembered.
"Hullo, Lil!"
"Amos! It's so good to see you," I said kissing him on the cheek. He kept his arm around my shoulder.
"I heard about what happened yesterday... are you all right?"
"Fine..." I said smiling. "I'll be okay."
"Don't worry... Aurors rarely ever face You-Know-Who. It's not nearly as stressful as what happened last night." I nodded and he continued, but on a different note this time. "It's so good to see you... after are break up and all. No hard feelings?"
"No hard feelings," I said smiling.
He ran his hand through my hair. "Still looking beautiful. How's life treating you, now that I'm gone?"
I laughed. "I've got a few minor things going on."
"Well I'll be... James Potter, is that you?" asked Amos dropping his hold on my arm. I turned around to stare at my boyfriend. My mouth was opened wide as he shook hands with Diggory... like he used to when we were in fifth year during a Quidditch match; a strong hold as though he were about to break off Amos' fingers.
My attention was brought back to Mr. Crouch. "I'd love to be an Auror... I—I'm not feeling too well..."
I excused myself and walked out of the door. I was about to walk away when I heard them talking inside.
"I'll go after her," offered Amos.
"No... no... I will," said James forcefully.
"If you insist," he said shruggingly.
I quickly ran up stairs to James' bed room. I was sitting on his bed when he walked into the room. He walked towards me but didn't sit down.
"Are you okay?"
"Yeah," I lied quickly.
"Good... then you'll excuse me while I kick Diggory out of my house—"
"What?! Why?" I asked sitting up. "I was feeling really bad so I came up here. The after effects of the Cruciatus curse were kicking in, and all that."
"Oh, of course," he said mockingly. "Or maybe you felt too weak at the knees, seeing your old boyfriend again, and all that."
I stared, "What?"
He rolled his eyes. "'How's life going?'" he said mocking Amos' voice, then mocking mine he said, "'I've got few minor things going on!' Minor, Lil? Minor? I'm minor to you? Falling in love with me is minor?"
"I didn't mean that!" I pleaded. But in reality I didn't know what I meant.
"Am I just so minor, Lil? Or is it just that your life doesn't have anything major in it now that Diggory is gone?"
I stood up. "That's not fair James, and you know it!"
"How is it not fair?" he asked lazily. "Let's have another one of Lily Evans' brilliant assessments!"
"James... I'm sorry, okay? I didn't mean minor like that. I wasn't even thinking about you when I said that—"
"So you're saying that now that Diggory is here, you don't think about me anymore? You'd rather think about him?" he asked accusingly.
"I only love you, James."
"Funny way of showing it. 'Oh, Amos! So lovely to see you! I want to be with you forever!'" he said mockingly before opening the door. "Give me a break."
I watched the door close behind him and I ran a hand through my hair. Nothing in the world could make me feel worse than I felt right now. I laid back on James' bed and looked around his room. I'd always had that comforting feeling around something that belonged to him. It's hard to explain but it was still captivating and extraordinarily meaningful to me. I clutched his pillow to me and let the smell of him take over me. And as I fell asleep nothing remotely close to Amos Diggory was in my mind. Tomorrow is my last day with him before we return to school tomorrow afternoon; I love him and tomorrow morning I'd prove it. Even if it meant going against my parents wishes.
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A/N: I've actually been meaning to tell you all about the "making love" scenes in this story. Lily and James have only done it once. It's not going to happen every night; it won't even happen every other night. This isn't a story about Lily and James getting together and doing things. It's about the last years of their life, from when they get together until when they die.
I hope I cleared up questions... Please read above if you haven't yet, and if you have any further questions ask me in a review. Thanks for reviewing everyone!
MPPSexxySiriusJamesRemus
Just going to answer a few questions/comments: PLEASE READ THIS!!
Thanks for all your concern! I really appreciated hearing you all ask about me. It was nothing fatal... just those teenage mood swings that come around a bit too often for my liking. You know them well as, "Even though I'm almost fourteen I have NO idea what to do with my life!" But it's a lot more complicated than that. Thanks anyway!
In last chapter I got a few comments about Lily telling her father what James and her did. She did do it for a reason... hard to believe I know. In this time of Lily and James' life, they know that the risk is high for them to be killed; life is too short to not be open and honest with your family and friends. She knows that, though I don't bluntly say it. This chapter is around what happened in last chapter, it also talks more about Lily and James' relationship together, and with both Lily's parents and James' father.
One person asked what's the big deal of Lily saying an Unforgivable. She didn't SAY it... she hit Voldemort with that spell. You can go to Azkaban for that. Crouch (senior) will be mentioned more and more in this story as it progresses. Remember he was all for using the curses so that they had a better chance against the D.E. and Voldemort.
Someone mixed up the way last chapter's battle took place between Voldemort, Lily and James. This is what confused that person.
" "Take your best shot," said Voldemort in a voice that made you unable to tell he was infuriated with me.
"Petrificus Totalus!"
"CRUCIO!"
"Lily!" exclaimed James, as Voldemort stumbled back and quietly fell to the ground. "
Voldemort DID NOT send a curse in that scene. James sent the Petrificus Totalus hex, and Lily used the Unforgivable. No, I didn't type that wrong. Voldemort was taunting them, "Take your best shot." As in, send whatever hexes you want. Because Petrificus Totalus makes your body stiff, and Crucio is the Unforgivable that tortures you, Lily and James were powerful enough (together) to knock Voldemort off his feet.
Lastly: People have said that the Voldemort battle was too unexpected. I wonder if you read the story closely enough. In chapter fourteen who died? Of course, James' mum! The Potter's are obviously a highly-thought of family by Muggles and Wizards alike. They weren't on Voldemort's side, even though they could have been. They are in danger of getting killed, since they are not on Voldemort's side. In chapter twenty three there was an attack... where was the attack? By Lily's house! There's foreshadowing for you. Also... many thought it was stupid that Voldemort attacked Lily and James, when there were other people he could have attacked. What you must realize is that Voldemort has as many, if not more, spies than Dumbledore and the Order; not to mention the one that's closest to Lily and James. He knows of the skills of the Head Boy and Girl. Remember, Dumbledore has spies too; he knew of the attack through information. Last chapter was setting up this chapter which holds a lot of information and sets up Lily and James' future. Voldemort WAS NOT at Petunia's wedding. One girl said that the chapter was ridiculous because "Voldemort attacked them at Petunia's wedding out of nowhere." First off, it was at Lily's house that they were attacked, and I already proved that Voldemort has spies that feed him information; that's why he attacked! You'll find out more here!
Disclaimer: I own nothing!
I thank you if you read all those notes above. It's really important for you to understand last chapter. Once Defied... two more battles coming up! Stay on your guard!
Day Six
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"Look, Mr. Evans we—"
"Richard, honestly!"
"Don't get into the middle of this Rose. Do you KNOW what they did?"
"We used protection—"
"It's my daughter! My little girl—"
"She's my daughter, too!"
"I have total confidence that James wouldn't have done it unless he was completely sure that Lily was ready—"
"Stay out of this, Dad! Stop defending—"
"You want me to stop defending you—?"
"Yes! I hate—"
"This is about my daughter! Not—"
I popped up in my bed, having a severe head ache. I looked up at my parents, James, and Mr. Potter. James was sitting up next to me. I realized we were in James' room; James and I were in James' bed.
"Your relationship is over! I will have you nowhere near my daughter—!"
"Daddy!"
"Lily, you're awake," said my mother coming over and pulling me into a tight hug. I glared over her shoulder at my father.
"What the bloody hell is going on?" I demanded.
"You know damn well what's going on!"
"You're breaking James and I up for doing what eighteen year olds do?!"
"I was under the impression that you and James didn't do that," said my father coldly.
I threw the covers off of me and walked towards my dad. "I can do what I damn well please! I just faced the most evil wizard in the world, I used and Unforgivable curse, and I survived to tell you about it! Try me, Dad."
My father stared at me, and then looked away. My mother stood up and walked towards my father, then rested her arms around him. I rolled my eyes.
"We did it once and you're acting like it's a big deal!" I said in exasperation.
"It's a big deal to me," muttered my father.
"Let me tell you something," I said, pointing my finger at him accusingly. "I love James will all of my heart. I give him one-hundred percent of myself, body and mind. I want to spend the rest of my life with him. I want to have his children, and I want to die by his side. Don't tell me what I can and cannot do. Don't even try to break us up. You have no power over us."
I fell back on the bed clutching my head. James reached out and touched my hand getting my attention him.
"Lil?"
"What potion did I take?"
"You didn't take any potion."
"My head hurts," I complained softly.
He pulled me up by my hips, onto his lap. I closed my eyes and rested my head on his chest. He rocked me back and forth slightly.
"Rose..."
"Richard," said my mum, and I opened my eyes to see my mum giving him a warning look. "You're outnumbered, love."
"Mr. Evans," I heard James say. "You have my word that I'll never hurt, Lily. I love her more than either of you can understand. I've loved her for years."
"You have no control over me," I added loudly.
I leaned up and kissed James and roughly as I could. At first he was taken aback but then he started kissing me more forcefully... more lovingly. I sensed my father's disapproval but it only made me kiss James unlike I had ever had. Once my head started hurting too much I stopped the kiss.
"We do have control over you, Lily," said my father.
I rolled my eyes. "I've decided something. I want... I want to spend the rest of my life fighting for the safety of Wizards."
I felt James stir underneath me. "You want to become an Auror?"
"The very least," I prompted sitting up in bed. "I'll need to talk to Professor Dumbledore about the defenses—"
"I know about the defenses," cut in Mr. Potter. "Albus has come to me many of times with news of the Order."
"What's the Order?" I asked quietly.
"It's a group made for the defenses against Voldemort. Even common Wizards can be in it... you needn't bother being an Auror."
"Are you in it, Dad?"
"Heaves no—"
"Why not?" ordered James.
"Lily you can't risk your life... you can be with James. Don't bother risking your life because of this disagreement—"
"It's not that, Mum. When I hit Voldemort with that Unforgivable curse... something went through me... something indescribable."
"Which on did you use?"
"Cruciatus curse," I answered promptly.
Mr. Potter shook his head. "You could be in serious trouble you know. Had not Crouch won the approval of using those curses against Voldemort."
"I only used it because he used it on James."
"What?" choked Mr. Potter. "You never said anything about you being hit with the Cruciatus curse!"
James shrugged. I looked between the father and son that were exchanging looks. James looked like he didn't care. Mr. Potter was upset beyond belief. And it was strange to see.
"It's not that big of a deal."
"Oh, yes! Yes it is James! That's serious!"
"Why do you care? You never had before... I don't care, Dad. I'm fine... just drop it." James looked away and his father closed his mouth promptly before returning his attention to my parents.
"Lily," said my father. Apparently, we were having two conversations in one. I brought my attention back to my father. "You told me that you lived for James yesterday. That you loved him above all else... Why are you throwing it all away by going off to fight?"
"If I don't fight, who else will!?"
"Order members are in more danger," said Mr. Potter quietly.
"You can't change my mind, Dad—"
"Don't we have your love, Lily?"
"It has nothing to do with love," I shook my head, whispering my opinion. "I want to save the world I love... the people I love. I want to fight... even if James doesn't want to."
Unexpectedly James spoke up quickly. "Of course I want to help... I want to kill those bastards that killed my mum!"
James father sat down on the chair, running a hand through his hair. "You wish that I would have taken your mother's place... don't you James? That I would have died... instead of your mother?"
James didn't answer. I looked between the two, my eyes brimming with tears. It's not possible to believe that, is it? James loved his father; even when he was mad. James didn't want either of his parents dead... did he?
"James? Lily?"
At the same moment we both looked up at the man that had become our saviour now. His eyes had light lines that made him looking even more elderly, and more tired then his thin body would give away. His eyes held that same sparkle... but how could it have? The guilt consumed me. The first thing I should have asked when I had woken up was the welfare of the greatest teacher I'd ever had. Amazingly enough he stepped forward, wishing my parents a cheerful hello. I sat up out of James' arms and went over towards him, James by my side.
"Professor... how are you, sir? What happened with Vold—You-Know-Who?"
"Call him by his proper name, Miss Evans," ordered Dumbledore quietly; I nodded. "He fled when the Ministry officials arrived."
"How—how did you know he was coming to attack us?" asked James incredulously then added hastily, "Sir?"
"I've got my sources, Mr. Potter."
"Who?"
"A boy... a boy with a problem... I won't say anymore."
Somehow he had that stature that made even the loudest of people quiet. Maybe it was the fact that he, even at the age he was at, could have complete control over everything, and could utterly be the best of the Marauders if he choose to; he was intelligent, mischievous and had that sort of look to him... like he had a secret. Or maybe it was because his voice was captivating regardless of if he was a foot away of half way across the Great Hall. Most likely it was because he's the greatest wizard in the world; and he brings fear to the eyes of the most evil wizard to pass through Hogwarts thresholds. I sighed as he began to speak again.
"You two showed extraordinary resistance to the power Lord Voldemort. I admit that I tried my hardest to get there as fast as I possibly could. I won't pester you with the thoughts but I have something serious to discuss with the two of you," he spoke solemnly but he still took a breath before talking. "Lord Voldemort knew you were going to the wedding this week... Coincidence that he happened to turn up?"
"Highly unlikely," I answered easily. "You're saying someone close to us is in line with Voldemort?"
"Perhaps," answered James. "Maybe he's just saying that information leaked out. You know how Sirius is. He might have told the whole common room... A big rumour could have been spread saying we went to get married on our own. You know the possibilities of what Sirius could spread around."
Dumbledore's eyes, oddly enough started sparkling. "Good assessments."
"I see what you mean, James. But what if someone we know is in line with Voldemort? How can we trust everyone?"
"Abbott," he answered promptly.
"John?" I asked incredulously. "I think you've been mistaken... He's my friend—"
"He went to Durmstrang for four years—"
"Don't be stereotypical—"
"I'm just giving suggestions," he said solemnly.
"It could be anyone around us, James. Any one of our classmates could have told Death Eaters... They could have been Death Eaters themselves—"
"Like Snape," said James loudly. I shot a look at him. Dumbledore seemed to move uneasily in his seat; but as I looked over at the elderly professor it was like I had imagined him move uncomfortably.
"I trust a lot of people in this world James. We can't go jumping to conclusions!"
"I'm just saying... We need to be careful what we say if we want to fight it—"
"Fight it?" inquired the Headmaster.
"James and I... have talked about joining the Order..."
"The Order of the Phoenix?"
"Mr. Potter told us about it... he said you were in charge and it's a group of Wizards that fight Voldemort."
"Yes... that's the Order I founded. Are you completely sure you want to join it for the right reasons, Miss Evans? Mr. Potter?"
James looked at the old man. "I'm not doing this solely for the purpose of avenging her death," he answered quietly. "I want to fight along side Lily... who is in danger and it one-hundred percent into the idea of fighting for this cause. I want to do it... I want to save lives but I also have other reasons, Professor—"
"I completely understand," answered the old man. "I know it's difficult to be for a cause of good without having more than one intention; saving the ones you love... like Miss Evans and her family... your friends like Mr. Lupin who have naught a fair chance to prove themselves... I know this is particularly for Mary... but don't use this the wrong way, James.
"The Order of the Phoenix is a group of witches and wizards that are anti- Voldemort. They protect those unable to protect themselves and even those who are able. They range from spies to representatives. The point is, almost everyone has a job to do in the Order. Tailing Death Eaters... some even go undercover as Death Eaters... double agents I guess you could call them."
I could feel my eyes go glazed over, as I listen to Dumbledore talk of the cause I was willing to fight for.
"Can we bring other people in that want to fight?"
"Who do you have in mind?"
"Dorcas... Edgar—"
"Sirius, Remus, Peter—"
"We'll discuss it when we go back to school. For now... I think you two ought to rest. Mr. Crouch will be along to talk to you around supper time—"
"Why?" I asked loudly.
His eyes lost the twinkle in them. "The use of the Cruciatus curse, Miss Evans."
"Am I in trouble? What's he going to do, sir? Might I be asked to fight or become an Auror?"
"If you wish to become an Order member, Miss Evans, I highly suggest you listen intently to what Mr. Crouch has to say. Analyze the situations as you did with the leaked information of the wedding. He might ask you to be in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement... working alongside Amos Diggory..." Dumbledore looked wonderingly at his long fingernails. "Of course... that wouldn't make any sense... Amos Diggory works in the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures... but then again, I never really understood Mr. Crouch's theories..."
He stood up from his chair, nodded around the room. "I'll be in touch with you all later. You two," he said nodding our way. "Ought to rest... I may be old... but I know the effects the Cruciatus curse has on people; especially young people."
(A/N: I used the GoF to get information for this chapter... while I was reading it I starting thinking something... Did anyone else find it odd that Dobby... who was in a family of Dark Wizards, did you find it odd that he was friends with Winky, who was in a family of Dark Wizard hunters?)
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"I need to speak with her," insisted a strong voice.
"She's asleep, sir. Cannot you come back later?"
"I've got a job to do, woman. I'm not spending my entire day waiting for a girl just because she's asleep!"
"She got hit with the Cruciatus curse!" insisted the woman.
"More of the right for me to talk to her!" called the voice again, pushing open a door and walking into the room I was in. I opened my eye to see a man looking at me. He had sort brown hair, which was unrightfully going gray around the edges; along with a thin mustache that made him look like the most proper man I had ever seen.
"Miss Evans?" he asked in a strongly confident voice of intelligence.
I sat up in bed and shook his hand. "Mr. Crouch?"
"Yes... I've heard from my sources that you survived and encounter with Voldemort... is that true?"
I nodded solemnly. "My boyfriend and I survived his attack; both of us were hit with the Cruciatus curse."
"Your boyfriend?" he asked, sitting down on the chair by my bedside table.
"James Potter, sir. The Minister's son."
A look of interest fled over his face. I had heard stories of him, even being the Muggle-born that I am. He is completely obsessed with getting to be the Minister of Magic someday. I can't help but wonder what effect this will have when he questions me.
"Is he interested in going into politics?" inquired the man with much interest. I shook my head no, and he sighed in relief. "Absolutely positive—?"
"I thought you were questioning her about the events that happened yesterday."
"Yes... yes, I was—I am..." Mr. Crouch and I both looked up to find Mr. Potter walk into the room; James stopped in his tracks at the thresholds of the room. "I was wondering if you'd like to come and work for me after school. I've heard of how strong you are, Miss Evans. Amos Diggory has been interested in a job working for the Ministry as an Auror. Training is easier now... six months of hard work will make up for three regular years. With the rise of You-Know-Who the need of Aurors has increased. That is, of course, why he's willing to be your partner and help you get all the training you need—"
"I would—"
"Sorry, but she can't," said James, stepping into the room towards Mr. Crouch. "She's going to work with me. We're both going to be... teachers at Hogwarts."
"Excuse me?" I said loudly, but not loud enough for James to meet my eye.
"I wasn't aware. I didn't know there were empty positions at Hogwarts that will need filling," said Mr. Crouch more solemnly.
"There isn't—"James covered my mouth with his hand. I pulled it off and sent him a look. "Can you excuse us?"
Mr. Crouch nodded quietly, turning his attention to Mr. Potter; I suppose they would talk about the only civil thing they could... Quidditch. I followed James into the hallway where he turned to look at me. I stared at him, in his eyes trying to figure out what he was doing.
"James! What are you going on about? We're not being teachers!"
"I'm not having you work with Diggory!"
"And why not?"
"I knew you guys went out for five months in our fifth year! You broke up when he graduated!"
"And how do you know he hasn't got a wife?"
"I know everything," he said quickly. "Besides... I know he still has feelings for you—"
"So you won't let me work with Amos because you think I'll leave you for him, is that it?"
James nodded as though it wasn't a big deal; as though he has every right to be afraid to lose me. I rolled my eyes and crossed my arms as he continued on. "I'm not losing you to that prat of a man—"
"What?! Do we have to get married before you let me work with other men?"
He registered the thought. "You want to get married?!"
"Nice proposal," I said dully. "You've got to trust me—"
"I trust you. Just not Amos wanker Diggory—"
"You're acting absolutely ridiculous! If you don't want me to be partnered with Amos... or rather you don't want me to spend time without you, why don't you just become an Auror, too?"
He stared at me for a moment. "I'm not the one having Master Bart Crouch come to me and ask me to work with him."
"You're such a bad jealous boyfriend, you know that?" I asked laughing. He looked at me, upset that I was making a joke out of his feelings. My anger and feisty stamina of earlier was now replaced with amusement.
"So you're saying you wouldn't care if I worked around a load of girls?" he asked raising his eye brows.
"I trust you, you know?"
"But do you trust the girls?"
"I trust you'll make the right decision if the time comes for you to be with the girls," I said smiling with complete confidence.
"I still don't want you—"I ended his sentence quickly by leaning up and pulling him into a kiss. He deepened it without question and I wrapped my arms around his neck, kissing him fuller. When he broke apart he stumbled back. "Whoa."
I laughed lightly, taking his hand in mine. "I love you, James Potter. Whether or not you recognize me as a trustworthy person I'm not going to leave you. Besides... I'm almost certain a good-looking guy like Amos has already found himself a wife."
"So you think he's good-looking?" James asked loudly.
"Do I have to kiss you for you to let this go?"
"It wouldn't hurt," he said laughing, as we walked into the room.
Standing there, next to Mr. Potter and Mr. Crouch was my exboyfriend Amos Diggory. His broad shoulders were just as I remembered them. He turned around sweeping me into a hug and it was like I was brought back in time to when I was fifteen, and he was seventeen. As we pulled away I looked back into his eyes that were still the same gray-blue and his smile was still genuine... he was still as good-looking as I had remembered.
"Hullo, Lil!"
"Amos! It's so good to see you," I said kissing him on the cheek. He kept his arm around my shoulder.
"I heard about what happened yesterday... are you all right?"
"Fine..." I said smiling. "I'll be okay."
"Don't worry... Aurors rarely ever face You-Know-Who. It's not nearly as stressful as what happened last night." I nodded and he continued, but on a different note this time. "It's so good to see you... after are break up and all. No hard feelings?"
"No hard feelings," I said smiling.
He ran his hand through my hair. "Still looking beautiful. How's life treating you, now that I'm gone?"
I laughed. "I've got a few minor things going on."
"Well I'll be... James Potter, is that you?" asked Amos dropping his hold on my arm. I turned around to stare at my boyfriend. My mouth was opened wide as he shook hands with Diggory... like he used to when we were in fifth year during a Quidditch match; a strong hold as though he were about to break off Amos' fingers.
My attention was brought back to Mr. Crouch. "I'd love to be an Auror... I—I'm not feeling too well..."
I excused myself and walked out of the door. I was about to walk away when I heard them talking inside.
"I'll go after her," offered Amos.
"No... no... I will," said James forcefully.
"If you insist," he said shruggingly.
I quickly ran up stairs to James' bed room. I was sitting on his bed when he walked into the room. He walked towards me but didn't sit down.
"Are you okay?"
"Yeah," I lied quickly.
"Good... then you'll excuse me while I kick Diggory out of my house—"
"What?! Why?" I asked sitting up. "I was feeling really bad so I came up here. The after effects of the Cruciatus curse were kicking in, and all that."
"Oh, of course," he said mockingly. "Or maybe you felt too weak at the knees, seeing your old boyfriend again, and all that."
I stared, "What?"
He rolled his eyes. "'How's life going?'" he said mocking Amos' voice, then mocking mine he said, "'I've got few minor things going on!' Minor, Lil? Minor? I'm minor to you? Falling in love with me is minor?"
"I didn't mean that!" I pleaded. But in reality I didn't know what I meant.
"Am I just so minor, Lil? Or is it just that your life doesn't have anything major in it now that Diggory is gone?"
I stood up. "That's not fair James, and you know it!"
"How is it not fair?" he asked lazily. "Let's have another one of Lily Evans' brilliant assessments!"
"James... I'm sorry, okay? I didn't mean minor like that. I wasn't even thinking about you when I said that—"
"So you're saying that now that Diggory is here, you don't think about me anymore? You'd rather think about him?" he asked accusingly.
"I only love you, James."
"Funny way of showing it. 'Oh, Amos! So lovely to see you! I want to be with you forever!'" he said mockingly before opening the door. "Give me a break."
I watched the door close behind him and I ran a hand through my hair. Nothing in the world could make me feel worse than I felt right now. I laid back on James' bed and looked around his room. I'd always had that comforting feeling around something that belonged to him. It's hard to explain but it was still captivating and extraordinarily meaningful to me. I clutched his pillow to me and let the smell of him take over me. And as I fell asleep nothing remotely close to Amos Diggory was in my mind. Tomorrow is my last day with him before we return to school tomorrow afternoon; I love him and tomorrow morning I'd prove it. Even if it meant going against my parents wishes.
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A/N: I've actually been meaning to tell you all about the "making love" scenes in this story. Lily and James have only done it once. It's not going to happen every night; it won't even happen every other night. This isn't a story about Lily and James getting together and doing things. It's about the last years of their life, from when they get together until when they die.
I hope I cleared up questions... Please read above if you haven't yet, and if you have any further questions ask me in a review. Thanks for reviewing everyone!
MPPSexxySiriusJamesRemus
