Romance in the Hospital Wing
By Wo Ai Ni16
Chapter 8: Unnerving Peace, New Identities, and Future Plans
Thursday, Third Week of August; 10:00 A.M.: Auror Main Headquarters, Alastor Moody's Office
"So, sir, do you have any new leads as to what Voldemort may be planning next?" The raspy voice asked. It belonged to an odd-looking man with grizzly hair and a rather chiseled face. His face showed utmost seriousness, with eyes narrowed and furrowed eyebrows. He was looking warily at the hooded wizard sitting in front of his cluttered desk. The wizard's head was bowed low with his robe's hood covering his face well. His entire outfit was long and flowing to ensure that any discernment of his physical features would be impossible.
"To be honest, good sir, I'm not too sure. The Dark Lord has been increasingly secretive about his tactics and will only allow those of his innermost ring to know any information," the mysterious wizard said, his voice deep, calculating, with a small amount of constrained sarcasm.
The chiseled-faced auror groaned, definitely not liking the latter's response. He banged his fist upon the desk, knocking some worn parchment papers off. The auror turned to the other wizard in front of the desk. "So what do you suggest we do now, Albus?!"
Despite the situation and the angry glare directed at him, Albus Dumbledore smiled. "Alastor, calm down, all of our spies are doing their best. We'll simply have to think of a plan without knowledge of Voldemort's tactics."
Dumbledore's reply was met with a growl. Once more Alastor Moody glared at the mysterious, hooded wizard beside Albus. He stood up and began pacing back and forth, muttering under his breath, "… 'a plan without Voldemort's tactics'… It's easier said than done, Albus!" He pointed an accusing finger at the spy, "Are you sure he's even trustworthy? He can be Voldemort's spy! How can you be so sure that he's not two-timing us?!"
Albus Dumbledore smiled once more. "Alastor, don't you have faith in me?"
He mumbled an affirmative.
"Then I can assure you that this man will not betray us. I have my reasons, although unfortunately I have been bound to secrecy not to share them." Albus turned a kind but knowing eye to the hooded wizard. "You may go now, thank you."
The spy nodded at Dumbledore, standing up and walking in a fast pace towards the door which opened before he could reach the doorknob. In stepped another wizard in auror robes. The spy paused and stiffened, although it was hard to tell what the expression on his face was since he still kept his head bowed low.
Alastor gave his usual bark of a greeting, "Remus! It's about time you showed up. Where's Potter and Black?"
Remus sighed softly and straightened his unkempt auror robes, obviously trying to buy time and avoiding answering his question. In the meantime the spy took this opportunity to make his exit. Remus gave a curious glance before turning to Alastor asking, "Who's he?"
Moody grumbled, "Just a spy who's been giving us 'help.' But where in the bloody hell is Potter and Black?!"
"Well… you see, er…" Remus was definitely hiding something, his expression sheepish.
Albus interrupted the tense moment with his innocent, "Oh, Remus, would you fancy a lemon drop?"
Remus smiled, thankful for the interruption. "Thanks, Albus." He popped one in his mouth.
Mad-Eye sighed. Why did everything seem to be pitted against him today? "It's the media again, isn't it?" He asked Remus. He didn't even wait for him to reply before saying, "I swear, if Potter or Black weren't one of my top aurors their continuous absences and lack of punctuality would have made me fire them long ago."
Just then, with his usual bad sense of timing came Sirius: "Hey Moody, you old chap! Sorry we're late!" his voice boomed unceremoniously as he and James entered the room. Their robes were slightly askew and they both looked as if they just had a run-in with death.
"It was the media again…sorry," James panted. He took a seat next to Remus and Albus with Sirius following suit.
At this point Remus finished his lemon drop and was able to say lightly, "I think Moody and all of us know that by now, James."
"I know, I said I was sorry!" James almost looked like a child who was just scolded by his mother. How cute. The media was always the reason for his lateness, which of course is the reason why Moody has not been too proud of him lately. It wasn't his fault; he didn't ask for his fame. He was practically born in it, since his entire family was one of the most prominent in the wizarding world. James just wished Moody would quit trying to bite his head off all the time, not literally of course.
"Forget it for now James…we'll discuss that problem later. As for now we-" He made a gesture showing that he was referring to himself and Dumbledore "-are trying to come up with some battle tactics against Voldemort. The past few days have been too peaceful. As I'm sure you all know, nothing happened ever since that attack in Diagon Alley. By now we should at least be hearing of some murders or death threats."
"How about our spies, Alastor?" Remus suggested. "Surely they must have something-"
"Again, we have nothing," Moody cut off impatiently. "Not even the smallest piece of information! Which is why I called this quick meeting in the first place, to try and come up with something based on nothing."
James fumbled with the cuff of his robes, not being able to think of something useful. "Tactics…tactics…what kind of strategy would be good during this time?" Was what he said to himself in his head. Personally, James just wished he could disguise himself as a Death Eater and simply Avada Kedavra the stupid bastard, but of course things weren't that easy in the real world. Lost in his thoughts, James didn't fully pay attention to what Remus and Sirius were saying to Moody and Dumbledore. He could see their mouths moving in speech, but he didn't have the energy these days to focus. Turning his gaze to the fireplace, which provided most of the light and warmth in the rather dark and dampy room, he watched its flames flicker and dance. The fire was a beautiful, almost seductive mixture of crimson and honey colors…the same exact colors Lily's hair had whenever the sun shone down her tresses. James smiled lightly to himself when he remembered their last meeting and his promise to her to always stay safe no matter what.
Remus glanced at James worriedly because of his silence to find him staring at the fire. His worried frown quickly turned into a smile when he noted the goofy-looking grin that was planted on James's face. He didn't really need to guess what his friend was thinking. The look was the same exact look James had in his school years whenever he was thinking of Lily. Sirius was more than happy to give him a good detailed account of what happened in their stay at the Hospital Wing when they reunited a couple of days ago. He was even more than happy to tell Remus about a certain intimate moment between James and Lily in (at this Remus sighed) a closet of all places. Remus has known James for a very long time now and he knew that his friend can sometimes be rather irrational and spontaneous when it comes to love. He just wished that James won't make too much a fool of himself in the future. Silently, he and Sirius are more than happy that James and Lily had been given another chance at their relationship…although he felt some sympathy for Ameile, who seemed completely oblivious to the new developments.
"So, James, what do you think?" Moody barked, disturbing the love-entranced man out of his thoughts.
"Huh?" James said stupidly as he quickly turned and blushed at being caught not paying attention. "Oh, tactics, right! Yeah, well… I think…" He racked his brain to think of the smartest plan he had… "Er..how about we just wait?" He suggested to Moody. Alright that definitely sounded a lot smarter in his head.
Moody's eye twitched with irritation, obviously not pleased with James's so-called plan. On the other hand, Albus smiled and encouraged him, "I think that's a rather good idea, James, do continue."
With a little more confidence James said, "Well... given the circumstances, there's not much we can do then, is there? I think it might actually be best if we just wait for his next move. In the meantime we can give the rest of the aurors a well-deserved rest and maybe even try to recruit more people if we can." Not knowing what else to say, James turned to Sirius to see if he had anything good to add.
Sirius snorted and held up his hands. "Hey, don't look at me, Prongs, I just attack and capture Death Eaters."
"Yeah, you're right," Remus said. "If we actually asked you to make up a battle plan the entire wizarding world is definitely doomed."
"Oy! I resent that!"
Moody sighed as the two continued their good-natured bickering while Albus and James chuckled. "Fine, it's settled," Moody said. "We'll wait for the bastard's next move. I'll notify the rest of the aurors to contact me directly of any suspicious event. Until then…CONSTANT VIGILANCE!"
Albus smiled and stood up, "Since everything seems to be in order, I'll have to take my leave. Good day to you, everyone." And with that Dumbledore exited out the door.
"I guess we'll all go too, Moody old chap. My dear Arabella is waiting for me!" With that Sirius practically hopped out of the chair and made out the door, Remus following after saying a "good-bye" to his superior. James took the opportunity to make a hasty leave before Moody stopped him in his tracks.
"Oh no you don't, Potter. We have some things to discuss. Take a seat."
James inwardly groaned but complied. Even he knew when to test Moody's patience and when not to. "Yes?" He asked meekly.
Moody leaned forward on his desk, elbows resting on top of its hard surface as he looked rather intensely at James's eyes. "We have to discuss your certain problems with your media and paparazzi."
James instantly switched into his defensive mode, "Sir, it's not my fault, I really do my best not to-"
"I know, I know it's not your fault," Moody grinned softly to assure that he was no longer that angry with James, "but that still does not give us a good excuse." He paused before continuing, "James, I'm sure you know all of this by now, so I'll be blunt. Voldemort is after you; he's been after the Potter line for quite some time now and we have to do our best to take any and every measure possible to avoid further deaths."
James clenched his teeth and nodded gravely, being completely serious now. Although Moody was right that he did know all of this information, it was still disconcerting to be reminded about it. "So what do you suggest then?"
At this Moody's eye sparkled in mischief. "I think it's time you got your own new identity."
"My own new what?" Came the surprised reply.
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12:03 P.M., Auror Main Headquarters
At the notice that the entire auror department had a couple of days off, everyone was taking advantage and were quickly exiting out the doors. Remus was very much surprised at the quick change in the atmosphere. Just days ago it was tense with apprehension at Voldemort's increasingly bold and deadlier attacks, but this time the entire department was filled with the sound of happy chatter as co-workers talked to one another about what they're going to do in their surprise vacation. He and Sirius were amongst the happy crowd, talking about miscellaneous things as they slowly made their way to one end of the building where they were planning to meet Frank, Alice, and Arabella.
"So how are things between you and Arabella going, Padfoot?" Remus asked as he quickly packed his briefcase with some office papers.
"Very good actually," Sirius said, beaming with pride. "I really think she's the one, Moony. I just want to give it some more time to stabilize things more." I think it's time for me now to give you guys another boring talk about Sirius and Arabella's relationship. But it's for your own good. Yes, Arabella was in the same year as Lily, Alice, Frank and the Marauders. Yes, she was also in Gryffindor. No, in my fic Arabella is not a squib; in fact she's a halfblood. And no, in my story I want to have Arabella as a beautiful, youthful, young woman who is only slightly partial with cats instead of the old, not as youthful, woman overwhelmingly obsessive with cats that is the canon version in J.K. Rowling's works. So yes, I am somehow straying away from the canon this time, but hey it's my fic and this is how I like it. And it seems to be the same in the majority of the Lily and James works I have read and admired. So then let's get to the more detailed parts, shall we? Arabella was also amongst the close circle of friends with Lily, Alice, and Sarah(remember chapter one?), so during the time that Lily's relationship began to be strained with the Marauders, Arabella and Alice followed likewise. But once seventh year came rolling along and everything between the two parties seemed resolved, Sirius started dating Arabella and continued to do so. They were able to keep a close contact with one another since Arabella worked as a secretary in the Auror Headquarters. Okay, I think that does it for now… sorry for the interruption by the way…
"And that reminds me, Moony," Sirius said, turning to his friend as they continued to walk once more. "When will you have a woman of your own?"
Remus smiled and blushed lightly at his friend's innocent question. "No, I'm not too sure I'll ever have one, I mean with my condition and all…" He said trying to be nonchalant but deep down feeling frustrated. He hated being a werewolf; it did not help his social or financial situation any. Now that Sirius reminded him, a woman would be nice… but of course, who'd accept a werewolf for a husband who'll just end up being a burden?
Sirius seemed to sense his friend's thoughts as he placed a comforting arm around Remus's shoulders. "Ah, don't worry Moony, I'm sure there's someone out there."
"Remus, Sirius! Wait up!" They heard someone call behind them. The two turning around, they saw Ameile who was smiling as she weaved her way through the crowd, eventually reaching them. She was breathless but it seemed that she looked more than happy, "Can you imagine it? Three days off! Never would I have imagined Moody to ever do something like that."
"Actually," Sirius began, "you have to thank Prongs he's the one who suggested it in the first place."
"James?" Ameile asked, surprised. "Well this is just perfect! Where is he by the way? I was hoping we could take advantage of this time to go out on a date."
Sirius and Remus exchanged a glance before Remus answered, "I don't know. We just came back from a meeting with Moody and he kept James behind."
Ameile's expression saddened, "He's in trouble again, isn't he?" She felt guilty since she was somehow involved in the media's increased activities. Ever since word got out that James Potter had a girlfriend, hordes of reporters doubled their efforts and began to try and infiltrate any public or private place that she and James stayed in. The Auror Headquarters and the Ministry of Magic were the only few places that they were totally safe since the intense security measures forbade any non-employee to trespass.
"Don't worry about it, Ameile, I'm sure Moody will let him off the hook soon enough," Sirius assured. When she still didn't look satisfied, he said, "Since Jamsie-boy isn't here yet, why don't you come with us? We're off to lunch with Alice, Frank, and Arabella in this new café at Diagon Alley."
Ameile smiled but kindly declined the invitation. "It's alright, I'll try to catch up with you guys next time. If you get to meet James, tell him to meet me at my place, okay? We haven't been spending that much time together lately." And with that she turned and disappeared into the crowd of people.
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Guest Bedroom #8, Common Area:
Megan was currently reading through the latest Witch Weekly issue during her lunchtime break. The front page cover was what quickly got her attention. Smacked in the middle of the cover for the entire world to see was a picture of James and Ameile sitting outside in what looked like a restaurant. The two seemed to be engaged in some casual conversation while picking at their food from time to time. Above the picture in big bold letters was the headline: "James Potter and Ameile Collins, the New Couple!" Megan frowned as she turned the magazine to the page the article was:
The Wizarding World's Newest Celebrity Couple!
Yes, you've heard it right. James Potter, our beloved number one eligible bachelor from our teen version's last issue is no longer eligible! He has currently hooked up with fellow auror Ameile Collins, and according to them, they've been together for a year now. Fellow fans have definitely been more than surprised at the sudden news but are cheering for the newly revealed couple.
Ameile Collins is also a Hogwarts graduate, only one year after James. Although they both admit that they weren't in love when they were students, Ameile-
"Oh my goodness, not you too, Megan!" Cried a voice, surprising Megan and making her jump. She looked up to see Lily leaning against the doorframe of her bedroom. With Dumbledore's permission, they were able to re-arrange the guest bedrooms so that she and Lily shared a Common Room along with two other MediWitches.
Megan blushed and hastily shoved the magazine along with several others as Lily went down the stairs and plopped down beside her on the couch. They both were tired of always being cooped up in the Wing and spent most of their breaks in the Common Room.
"Well, you have to admit it is interesting," Megan said meekly, trying to defend herself. Lily gave her a playful cold glare before laughing at her own foolishness.
"I'm sorry, Megan, I guess I just haven't been in the best of moods lately," she said before reaching for the fruit bowl and grabbing an apple and biting into it.
Megan smiled in reply as she turned and savored the soup she was currently eating for lunch. She knew what was causing Lily to be so uptight the past week or so. Ever since Ameile was revealed to have been James's girlfriend, her friend became more snappish for some reason. Megan smiled to herself. Jealousy was definitely not an emotion to be trifled with. Although she had to admit that she also had quite a crush on James, Megan knew better than to interfere with him and Lily. So why not try to help Alice bring back Lily and James instead? Megan narrowed her eyes slightly at her thoughts. Now if only she knew what to do with that Ameile Collins, the poor dear…
Lily in the meantime was watching her friend and laughed lightly at the change of her expressions. "Sickle for your thoughts?" She asked jokingly.
Megan glanced at her friend. "What did you say?"
"Never mind, it was just an expression."
Megan frowned, not really understanding Lily before both turned their heads over to the window at the sound of tapping. There, an owl was currently perched on the windowsill, carrying a pack of letters in its beak.
"Oh look, it's the mail!"
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Diagon Alley, Bagginson Café 12:30 P.M.
"I'll also have the Manager's Special, thank you," Arabella said to the waitress.
The blonde witch smiled as the enchanted quill wrote the last order on the parchment before gathering all the menus. "Alright then, your orders shall be ready in about ten minutes," she said in a bubbly voice.
Sirius elbowed Remus winking towards the waitress that just walked away. "What do you say about that one, Remus? Nice figure, eh? I'll have to admit, she can use a little more trimming in the back department but apart from that- OW!" Sirius clutched his shin under the table while turning to his girlfriend, "Bella, dear, I'm hurt!"
Arabella glared daggers at Sirius, "And you'll be hurt more if you don't stop. Leave poor Remus alone."
"Is that jealousy I detect in your voice, my love?"
Remus sighed. That was the third female Sirius pointed out within the past twenty minutes. Although he somehow appreciated Sirius's efforts, he would prefer it more if he'd stop. Usually Sirius's 'help' turns out to be more of a burden.
"Alright you two, stop it with your lovers' spats. I've had enough with Lily and James already," Frank complained good-naturedly as he wrapped an arm around Alice.
Arabella and Sirius finally stopped after Arabella had her final say by kicking her boyfriend again in the shins.
Remus was thankful for the change of topic, "So do you guys think that they will get together?" He asked.
Alice looked thoughtful for a second before replying, "Yes. I'm sure of it, a hundred percent."
Frank looked more doubtful though, "But what about Ameile?"
Arabella took a sip of her iced tea and sighed, "Yeah, and don't forget about Lily's fiancé."
"Hm…I wonder what he's like," Remus wondered.
Alice laughed lightly. "Don't worry, Remus. Let's just say he's not the most fascinating man in the world-"
Sirius snorted, interrupting her, "Yeah right, he's downright boring!"
"He is very loyal though, very smart, and he's rather rich too. You'll have to give him that much credit."
At that moment the blonde waitress came back. "Here are your orders! Enjoy your lunch, and please don't hesitate to call for me if you need anything."
Arabella used her fork to cut a piece of the chocolate cake slice and sampled it. "Mmm.. this is really good. Not really the healthiest lunch, but it's downright delicious."
"You should try their soups too, they're very good," Frank suggested who was the one who found the new café in the first place.
They sat in relative silence for awhile, sampling their orders and giving comments on them.
"But back again with Lily and James, do you suppose we should do anything?" Alice introduced the topic once more.
Remus frowned, "What do you mean?"
"Oh, maybe we should, you know… give a little push here and there," she said nonchalantly, but the mischievous glint in her eyes gave her away.
"Matchmaking, oh how fun!" Arabella said, her eyes alight.
Sirius laughed and smacked his fist down the table, "Now this is more like it! Finally, some action! Whatever you guys do, count me in!"
"I suppose we can't just simply lock them again in a closet like in seventh year, huh?" Frank said jokingly.
"No, that's a little juvenile. We're nineteen now, we can do much better than that!"
Remus shook his head, smiling lightly. "Fine, you can also count me in. Just as long as we don't do anything drastic, okay? We have an engaged woman and a not-so-single celebrity on our hands."
"So what do you suggest, Alice?" Arabella asked, now excited and her half-finished chocolate cake forgotten.
"Well… let's just say that a close associate of mine has been hearing word of an upcoming Ministry ball."
"Aw, Alice! I'm your fiancé and you didn't even tell me about this?" Frank said, hurt.
"Relax, I just heard it from Janet yesterday. I was going to tell you tonight."
"How reliable is the information source?" Remus asked. "You're sure this is not just some made-up rumor?"
"No, I'm pretty sure of it. It's supposed to be sometime in late September."
"That's good, it's not too soon."
Remus was about to say something when another voice behind him interrupted: "Well, I guess I should be happy then that my friends have such interest in my love-life."
The five turned their heads to see a brown-haired young man standing right behind Remus. He was wearing auror robes with quite a number of medals and badges on his chest. Remus narrowed his eyes. Those were the same exact medals and badges James has. "Prongs?" He asked anxiously.
The stranger smiled down at Remus. "Glad that someone recognized me, Moony."
Sirius bursted in with his usual bluntness, "Ah hell, James, what in Merlin did you do to yourself?!"
"No way, is that really you, James?" Frank asked.
"More like what Moody did to me," James said. "And quiet down the entire café can practically hear you." He pulled up a chair from an empty table and sat beside Remus. "Yes, it's me. And don't call me James. In this form my name is supposed to be-" James scrunched his face in distaste "- Samuel Jacobs."
Arabella eyed James from head to toe. He was still handsome. This time, he had brown hair with golden highlights. His eyes were also a warm chocolate brown. The features that stood out the most were his long bangs and the long hair that reached the top of his shoulders, held by a black leather string.
"So I presume that this is Moody's solution to the constant media mobs, huh?" Remus asked.
James nodded. "Yeah, I'm actually kind of thankful though. At least now I don't have to keep running all the time."
"Well alright then," Sirius said happily, putting an arm around James's shoulder. "So, Samuel, I guess you've been eavesdropping on our conversation then?"
"Yeah…" James began, starting to get irritated. "So…do you guys always talk about me and Lily behind my back like this?"
Without hesitation the entire group replied, "Yes," in unison. James grumbled under his breath.
"But then again," Arabella said happily, "now that we've admitted that we do, we're no longer talking behind your back now, are we?"
"Good point," James replied sarcastically.
"Aw, admit it, James, you definitely could use the help. There's no denying that you want Lily back as much as she wants you," Frank said.
James blushed. "Am I really that obvious?" "Fine, fine. A Ministry ball, eh?" He asked, his eyes sparkling. "That sounds interesting…"
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Guest Bedrooms Group #8, Lily Evans's Bedroom, 11:00 P.M.:
"Goodnight, Megan!" Lily called out her bedroom door before closing it. A yawn immediately made its away out her mouth. Lily stretched her arms over her head as she made her way up to her mirror. She looked terrible. Her hair was slowly making its way out her messy bun and her MediWitch robes were dirty.
"My goodness," Lily whispered to herself. Her muscles were sore from the day's work. "Hm, nothing that a nice hot bath won't fix." Lily turned to her bedside table where the letters from the past afternoon were placed. She didn't even have the time to look through them yet since her lunchtime was already up. "In the meantime I can read these in the bath."
With that, she dressed out of her clothes and stepped into her mint-green silk robes. After having the bath ready, Lily slipped out of her robe and stepped in slowly, instantly feeling the tensions in her muscles loosen. She grabbed the first letter on the pile and opened it, careful to make sure that she didn't get it wet. It was from Sarah:
Dear Lily,
How are you doing? I bet you forgot about me already, didn't you? Well the past few weeks have been terribly hectic and lonesome without you. Mr. Abeforth Sr. seems to be handling the transition well. I think he's making a good recovery from the past operation, he's definitely improving. He always asks Ethan about you whenever he visits, though. Such a nice, sweet old man he is.
So how's everyone else doing? I'm very happy for Alice and Frank, I always knew that they'd be together! They were definitely made for each other, I'm sure. I wonder when's the wedding. Oh, that reminds me! Why not make it a double wedding between you, Ethan and them? It's just a suggestion. I can't wait. I'll be a bridesmaid in two weddings, can you imagine that? And I'm pretty sure that Arabella and Sirius will also plan to have one soon enough. I bet it's only a matter of time before Sirius pops the question.
Speaking of couples, I'm sure you've heard of James and Ameile. Can you imagine that? It's all over the papers, the radio, everywhere! I have to admit, I always thought that it would be you and James together, but I suppose that life's like that, isn't it? You get some surprises here and there…
Well I'm currently running out of time, not to mention that my wrist is starting to get a cramp, so I guess that I'll have to end this letter here. I know that you're terribly busy, Lily, but please do try to keep in touch, okay? I miss you terribly, and Mr. Aberforth misses you too.
Love,
Sarah
Lily sighed after finishing the letter. "Oh Sarah," she whispered sympathetically. She did miss her friend and St. Mungo's, but the Wing needed her more now. She scanned the letter again and frowned, "'I always thought that it would be you and James together' hmph. Honestly, the world and its assumptions. James and I are close friends, we can never be more than that." Lily placed the letter down and slid further down the water, letting her mind wander. Eventually her gaze turned back to the pile of letters. There were two left. Sitting up higher, Lily wiped her hands on a washcloth before looking at the second letter. Picking it up, she recognized the messy scribble of "Lily Evans" written in front. She knew James's handwriting anywhere. Opening the letter she began to read it, a smile lighting up her face.
Lils,
Remember? I did tell you that I was going to write to you. So how's everything been going, huh? Sorry about dragging you into the closet by the way… Sirius has been talking nonstop to Remus about it. Don't worry, I did make sure to tell Sirius that nothing of that sort of nature happened. Right now I'm in a hotel, can't tell you where though in case this letter gets intercepted, although I highly doubt that it will. I have a special concealing charm on it, you see.
But enough about that, I just wanted to tell you that I still care about you, Lils. What I said back in the closet (I know it wasn't the best place to talk, but hey you had it coming) was nothing but the truth, despite what the media says. Yes, I know that you know, Lily. Admit it, you've seen the story everywhere. "James Potter and Ameile Collins, the New Couple." Believe me when I say this, fame sucks. I have to be truthful when I say this also, I want to break up with Ameile. I never had any romantic feelings for her in the first place; I only care for her like the sister I never had. So yes, Lils, I'm still after you. Don't think that you can easily escape from me. I'm not the ringleader of the Marauders for nothing.
I'm gonna end this now, Lils. I bet you're reading this at night, huh? That was always a habit of yours. So sweet dreams, Lils, dream of me if you want, just not those kind of dreams. I'm joking, okay?!
Love from the ever-stubborn and persistent one and only,
James
"James, James, James," Lily said, laughing. "He still has that bit of arrogance and all of his old confidence in him." Feeling much better now, Lily decided to finally get out of the bath lest her skin turns into a prune. She wrapped a towel around herself and picked up the letters, and sat down the edge of her bed. She had to admit though, she felt slightly sorry for Ameile. She seemed to be very much in love with James. Lily looked down at her toes, "I just hope James knows what he's doing." Deciding not to think too much about the matter she looked back at the pile of letters.
"Just one more letter to go," she said, as she picked up the last letter. It felt rather heavy for just the thin-looking piece of parchment paper it was. Opening the black seal, Lily gasped as she saw a wave of yellow powder explode into her face. Lily instantly closed her eyes and dropped the letter, instantly feeling the powder's acidic properties burning into her skin. She quickly rushed into the bathroom to wash her face and her arms which had the most contact from the powder. After a couple of minutes of vigorous washing, she looked up into the mirror to find that the skin affected was inflicted with mild-degree burns.
"What the hell?" Lily gasped leaning closer to the mirror to peer at her reflection. She tentatively touched a part of her neck that had been burned and winced in pain at the intense stinging sensation that followed.
Lily glanced back at the foot of her bed, where she had dropped the letter. Cautiously she stepped up to it. There was no trace of the yellow powder anywhere. Lily instantly felt a chill run down her spine and swallowed down the bile that was rising up her throat. On the letter written in what Lily suspected was blood were the words:
You're next, Mudblood.
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And the plot just thickened. What a big mess I've made…and to think that I am the one who'll have to untangle all the characters from this mess…well that is, the characters that will survive. Oh I'm just evil aren't I?
This definitely has been the longest chapter ever. 14 pages on Microsoft Word, not counting the author's notes. It took me a lot of time to type this chapter; I was trying to plan everything to the utmost perfection I can achieve. It's because this chapter is one of the most important. It's not exactly the turning point of the story, but this is where everything gets darker… Yup. I have some things in store for our beloved friends. I feel so bad for shoving them into all of this mess. Terrible, terrible war.
On a happier note, yes, there's the upcoming Ministry ball I promised to you all! No Lily and James fic will be complete without a ball, so why not I uphold the tradition? And yes, I finally managed to bring Remus and Arabella into the story! Yes, he will get a woman. Every charming man, werewolf or not, deserves a sweet young woman to care for him. Just who will it be? Well you guys can take your guesses, but I already have the person in mind. I think it's pretty obvious who it's going to be. Now I just have to get Peter into the picture… Oh yeah, before I forget, what do you guys think of Samuel Jacobs? Don't ask me where I got the name from, it just popped into my head =P
On an even happier (for me) note, I already have the pictures posted online. You can find the url's by scrolling down my bio. The url's will stand out easily, so you guys shouldn't have trouble. I would really love it if you can comment on them. One of my reviewers (Loves to Read) already reviewed them. Also, I'm planning on making my own website. Hurrah for me. My website will be dedicated to the (few) fanarts I have and my (again, few) fanfiction. I'm also planning on posting my favorite fanfiction there. Don't rush me though, this site is going to take some time if I actually manage to go through it.
One more thing that's not so important. I've been doing some more math again to try and figure out how fast I have to make this story go… and if you want to be exact, Harry was conceived on Halloween 1979 –snorts- Now how funny is that? That is of course presuming that Harry was conceived exactly nine months before July 31. As Sirius will say in this situation, "I guess Lily and James had too much mischief that night." =P
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So sorry for this very long author's note, but I just wanted to take the time to thank everyone who has read, reviewed, and supported me. So much love to all of you guys. So without further ado [and forgive me if I miss anyone, I did my best to be thorough]:
16 Glomps and Love to the following people who put me on their favorite authors list: Tiger Lily21; A-northern-girl; cxigner; Taari Loome; Adrianna Trianna; Lily-Potter8; Latina1; Skye133; Ruth3; GinnylovesHarry; SexySlytherinChick; dragonhp1116; LexiLou; btzfungurl09; Lazi Bunni; Dangerous Perfection; toriisen; FallenFlower; FrEgOrGeLuVeR225; restless0soul; VaNiLLacHai 501; Andromeda Tonks; Lilykins; lingyeung-02; Florence Stylsen; La Dee Da; cHeeZeCak3; Daveigh; jasmine; Muses' Advocate; flying-piggy-123; ice-princess2515; i-luv-ron-008; tootrickyforyou; arwenundomneil; MissBlueAngel; crazy4padfoot; fate's fallen angel; Celestial Night; animalluvr75; Lilyangel04; Skittles in Aqua; gryffspopgurl; cilverblood; buggy-such
16 Glomps to the following people who put my story on their favorite stories list (it took me quite a while to come up with this list too): Dangerous Perfection; tiggerbaby2430; Tiger Lily21; tRuE2U; ThreeEaredBunny; princess emily; toriisen; munkylover256; Hp-Azn; FallenFlower; cxigner; Padfoot103; Elspeth Renee; FrEgOrGeLuVeR225; cHiniTaGrL; gryffspopgurl; S.BR.LJ.P; nightxXxshade; AndromedaTonks; child-of-scorpo; crogirli; BlackSlytherinGirl; Lilykins; Lilyangel04; allie kat5; watervolleyhp; cHeeZeCak3; dancinguyn; jasmine; AngelsChains124; flying-piggy-123; Muses' Advocate; Kristinerz77; Revi; Chavela-Chica; ice-princess-2515; clyana; browneyedgirl2004; Celestial Night; skye133; MilesFromNormal; arwenundomneil; crazy4padfoot; pale pink roses; Puppet Heart; EvilAngel995; Lintucuiel; fate's fallen angel; tootrickyforyou; Daveigh; Ruth3; Eldarwen Ancalime; btzfungrl09; Skittles in Aqua; californiagurl; DancingEvy1; AnG3L1c diVa-chan; cilverblood; Brilliant, just brilliant; moviechicka; Jessie Luna; LilyEvansPotter16; Sweetaccent; sissy-6; Lilyangel04; DaRrelLsGuRl; Dangerously Non-Existent
And yes, I'm also thanking the people who put me on their author's alert list: Tiger Lily21; A-northern-girl; cxigner; GinnylovesHarry; SexySlytherinChick; dragonhp1116; LexiLou; Lazi Bunni; toriisen; FallenFlower; FrEgOrGeLuVeR225; AndromedaTonks; Daveigh; ice-princess-2515; Taari Loome; Danski; Aiyanna Lupin; Taari; jess70; independen-and-happy1373; watervolleyhp; blackdragonofdeath13; xoOBlackDragonOox; May May15; tRuE2U; Lily Natalia Evans; Tuliptucker; Hazel-lp9; allie kat 5; Princess Pixie Ice; chewy1; mandyzcool; xan3; lilynjamesAAF; honey8786; child-of-scorpio; angelzsweet90; moviechicka; MadEyeJr; MarryMeJames; slate07; Six83; Brilliant, just brilliant; cHeeZeCak3; Theresa Black; James and Lily 4eva; dancinguyn; SaMBraT; KristiexxNguyen; jasmine; Muses' Advocate; Kristinerz77; WotcherTonks; i-h8-sclub; clyana; skye133; DaRkDrEaMzzz; crazy4padfoot; pale pink roses; slippersRfuzzy; Jessie Luna; fate's fallen angel; tootrickyforyou; LilyEvansPotter16; Ruth3; Choo Choo Train; water-phoenix5; btzfungrl09; CanadianBlueberries; Sweetaccent; evilvampisme; sissy-6; Catherine-Anna; Lilyangel04; Loves to Read; AnG3L1c diVa-chan; DaRrelLsGuRl; Dangerously Non-Existent; cilverblood; Chrono-Maku; SouthernGirl5178
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Now onwards to my individual responses (oh my poor aching wrists):
Jasminee: Hey again Jas. Thanks a lot, lol =) So sorry I haven't kept in touch much, but hey here's chapter 8, hope I didn't disappoint ya. S
Miles From Normal: Thanks so much for your comment. Yes, Sirius is awesome, he provides much- needed comic relief in my story. Yes, he is such a smart ass, I don't think anything will ever let Sirius down =D Not counting Lily and James's death… =(
Me: Nah, kidding or not kidding I know how horribly slow I update. This chapter was such a pain in the butt; I wasn't too satisfied with it because it didn't seem to contain enough action. But then I thought about it for a while and I decided to just put this up anyway… there'll be more action (both romance and fighting) in the future chapters.
Californiagurl: Yeah, and the tangled web just gets messier. It sucks how life isn't all that simple, ne? Sometimes I wish I was a kid again…
Animalluvr75: Eheh, not too soon but oh well (I seem to be saying that in almost every single chapter, huh? -- )
Fate's fallen angel: Wow, thanks so so so so much! Lol, yea individual responses take quite some time but I always want to respond back to people! I was actually very much tempted to write just one line for a whole group of people (since I already spent so much time typing up the above section) but eh, it's all good. I know, it sucks when you fall in love with fictional characters, ne? So sad… why can't anyone in real life be as good as them? My two favorite guys are Inuyasha (you've heard of him?) and of course James. But I'm actually nice, I'm willing to give up James to Lily ; )
FallenFlower: Yeah, and at least now in this chapter we find out that (gasp) James is finally going to break up with Ameile! I hope he holds on to his nerve though and not back out in the last minute… I wonder how he's going to break up with her… damn, I have to figure this one out… (goes off to brainstorm)
Cherry: Yes! A fellow anime-appreciator/fan/whatever you wish to call yourself. xD So far I can do some very simple conversation and can count up to 20. Eh, it's a start. And I already posted up the url's for my pictures, I hope I'm as good of a drawer as you think I am. (sweatdrop) I tend to stray away from coloring the pictures on photoshop cuz it takes up too much time for me… I have a very small amount of patience, you see. So yeah, I hope you can give me some comments. =)
JJ: Yeah, you do have a very good point =) As I said before, this chapter especially took me a long time to write. I hope this one was good, it didn't have too much romance in it; I think it went more towards the adventure part. But once September rolls along, I can finally plan that upcoming ball (grins widely). I'll have to make sure to stuff some extra fluff in there to make up for it.
James and Lily 4eva: Oops, sorry about that, but neither Ethan nor Ameile were present to see that. I decided to let our poor lovers get a break from all their embarrassment. After all, James already has enough trouble with the media as is, the poor guy.
Tiger Lily21: Of course I'll write everything within reason (smirks mischievously) but of course I shall also have fun in the process. I do promise to make the Ministry Ball as enchanting and fluff-filled as I can. I think Lily and James deserves at least that for all the torture I'm going to put them through =
Luthien RhiannonCat5: Hahahaha, well I hope I made you guys proud enough. I don't have any siblings though, at least I have that much. I always wondered what it's like to have siblings. But alas, this computer is more or less mine =D Time management sucks, I'll tell you that much. And to think, I'll have even more things to juggle around once school comes around the corner (groans).
Browneyedgirl2004: I love long reviews though, so no problems there! Thanks very much for your compliment, it really perks me up, you know? I do feel sorry for Lils! To think that she could've been together with the love-of-her-life only to make the mistake of getting engaged before meeting him again. (sigh) So so sad. But this gives us all the more reason to pitch in together and help Alice, Frank, Remus, Megan, Sirius, and Arabella to bring them together again! Face it, if we didn't help will Lily and James ever get together? Lol
Misakichi1: Aww! I'm short too, so I feel your pain. =( Can you imagine some of my guy friends call me 'midget'? xD I just laugh along with them though… (sigh) but if you want to be optimistic, it's better for us girls to be too short than to be too tall, ne? Thanks for your review!
Princess Pixie Ice: Thanks so much! Hmm… as for you and Sirius (checks her planner to see when he's free) let's see, so far I have him scheduled for a dress rehearsal from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. tomorrow…. But he's free from 2 to 5. So if you want, I can somehow "accidentally" shove him into this janitor closet right next to his dressing room while you wait for him inside. Not the most romantic, but it's the best I can do for now! Now I just have to try and get Arabella out of the way…
Lissy: Thank you very much! I hope you like this chapter too!
DancinEvy1: Oops, sorry about that. I never knew that it had to be on a certain hand (feels stupid and ignorant now) darn… and to think I drew a picture of them in the glade scene where she's showing it with her right hand too… =( Thanks for pointing that out by the way! I'll try to edit that (makes a note of it).
Gryffspopgurl: Thanks so much for the review, gryffspop! It really really made my day a whole lot brighter (which is saying something since it's dark and gloomy where I am right now) LoL. I guess I'm just too paranoid. I gotta make the Ministry ball overflowing with fluff… well at least compared to other chapters =D Hoping to get in touch with you again soon!
Dee: Yes! A near-confession! Key word being "near" (sigh) Can't they just somehow get their act together?! Oh wait, but it's me who's making them this way… lol, forget about that then. They'll eventually get their act together. Alice, Frank, Remus, Megan, Sirius, and Arabella will make sure of that ; )
Crazy4padfoot: LoL, thanks lots fellow Sirius-lover! Well, we get more of Sirius's smart-aleck comments here =D And yay! Remus and Arabella finally jumped into the story (you don't know how much they've been buggin me to include them). Well, I hope to hear from ya again!
Lily Natalia Evans: Yes, eventually Lily will give in… when? Oh, I bet it's only a matter of time. After all, it's very hard to run away from true love (cue in sappy romance music). xP
Oliverwoodschic: Yes! I love the Harry Potter cast, they're all charming and talented in their own ways. I can't say that I'm too happy about that Cho character though… she definitely didn't fit my expectations for a Cho. But anyways, thanks for your review!
Amy: Thanks lots for your review, Amy =D
Kt: Yeah, that was a typo (bows head in embarrassment) … I think my head began to wander when I typed that. And, the irony, the real Sarah made an appearance in this chapter, too. Remember the girl in St. Mungo's? Yup, that's her. You can quickly scroll through chapter two and you'll see her =) She will be playing a slightly bigger roll later in the story, so let's not forget her too fast (that's why I had her write a letter to Lily to remind my readers about her).
Eldarwen Ancalime: Lol, so sorry, but I guess I'm just not that fast when it comes to updating =( But hey, this chapter was extra extra long. Lily and James will get together soon, relatively soon. As I said to another reviewer, Lily cannot run away from true love that easily. Thank god James is such a stubborn fool when it comes to her. If it had been any other guy I'm sure they'd have long given up xD
Chavela-Chica: Yes, Sirius was much better, ne? At least he had the "decency" to leave Lily and James to their business shortly after he interrupted them. (Smiles) Sirius is just sweet that way, lol.
Lilyangel04: It's all good. I know how frustrating things can be with incompetent computers (pats computer)… the poor things… they do need a break every now and then. Thanks lots for your compliment, I'm glad you love my story =)
Mandyzcool: Thanks lots! The chapters just keep on coming and coming (despite the slow updates =P )
Skittles in Aqua: Alrightie, I just reviewed again. Sorry that I'm not able to keep tabs since I don't get to access my account so often… =( I think skittles in aqua would be a good idea, I wonder what sort of flavor they'll give it though?
EvilAngel995: Thanks lots, the closet scene is one of my favorites, along with the glade scene. (sigh) So many "-- scenes" I wonder what the next one will be…
Vamperfly: Yeah, it does, doesn't it? Although I gotta admit, my little firewall is protecting my computer quite well (whispers) my computer should've started getting major viruses by now, but so far so good =D My firewall sends its deepest apologies for sometimes being overprotective but he told me that what needs to be done must be done. =P
Patti: Hm… James save Lily… he's going to do something a little bit like that, but you're right: something comes up, James does something to help, and this is what makes Lily realize "oh to hell with all my insecurities, I'm finally going to hook up with James."
Lilykins: Sirius seems to have the best lines so far, doesn't he? But finally, Remus steps into the picture! Along with Arabella! As a side story, we have to help out poor, lonely Remus and finally give him the woman he deserves ; )
Kristinerz77: Thanks lots, Kristin! I'm so happy when I get reviews like yours =) It makes me really happy to know that people like my story. Hoping to hear more from ya!
Clyana: Yeah, it is annoying when people are like that. James is definitely stubborn when it comes to Lily. He'll do anything and everything it takes to finally get with her. Such devotion. (sighs wistfully)
Celestial Night: Oh yeah, been busy too myself, thus another reason why this chapter took a while. Thanks lots for all your reviews! See you September 2nd. Dun dun duuuuun we're going back to school, nooooooooooooooooo!!!! =(
Loves to Read: You know what, you're the only one who commented on the initials scratched into the rock, lol. Thanks lots, it was a cute little idea of mine. And yay! You're the first one to comment on my pictures, thanks-oh-so-much for your comment! I'm glad you like the uniforms, it took me some time to finally get them perfect. I'll try to post up more pictures that I made/will make from this fic! I'm very happy that you love my story! A big old-fashioned glomp to you!
Adreena: Thanks lots for your review, Adreena! I hope you like this chapter too!
Arwenundomneil: Yes! Suspense, you can't get enough of it! Well, for me at least, but I'm sure that for readers like you it's another thing. Lol. Everything just keeps getting more and more messed up in my fic… oh dear… =T
Singer: Yes, the descriptive parts tend to be the romantic ones (sigh) Poor Lily indeed. I sometimes feel more sorry for James, he's the one who keeps chasing after her. That guy never tires, does he? And yes, diary entries are cute =) They provide a little break from my boring narrations.
AnG3L1c diVa-chan: Oooh, are you a fellow anime-lover? Just assumed it because of the "-chan" part =) Thanks so much for adding me to your favorites! (glomps you)
Jen: Aww, thanks lots! I'm happy that you like the way I write Lily and James. I try to make it more realistic, and since this is taking place in the middle of a war, drama is definitely a must. I'm also happy that reading my fic makes you happy! Thanks for your review.
Cilverblood: Thanks for the review! I have to admit, I didn't like Oopt too much… it definitely didn't meet my expectations… but then again, I'm very picky sometimes =P
Chrono-Maku: Thanks so much! A lot of my readers really love Sirius, but hey who can't love him? He's such a sweet, funny guy. Now how about Remus, I have to give him his share of the fun too. So, I decided to give him what he needs the most, a woman (cue in the "aww's") Yup, Remus shall have a girlfriend!
Dimpi: LoL, thanks lots! =D I'm glad you liked the chapter!
Ruth3: It's okay, lol. James's promise to Lily was to stay safe. He swore a Marauder's oath on it, so James is pretty serious in keeping that promise. Isn't that sweet… let's just hope that James will be able to keep it as the war grows ever so more violent =O And nooo! Please don't send a howler at me! (tries to think of a good excuse) If you do, it will damage my computer, and I can no longer type my chapters here! Yeah, that's it! So don't send any howlers please! (computer cowers in fear).
Puppet Heart: LoL, I know what you mean about the drawing. I, too, don't have the patience sometimes to produce a decent artwork. As I said before, you can check out the pictures through the Url's I pasted in my bio. Do give me a comment, I'd love to hear from you guys about my art =)
SilentRain22: Thanks so much for your review! I'm happy that you like the characters, I love writing them =) And they told me to tell you that they love reviewers like you who compliment them! =D
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"Can't –pant- go on –pant- much longer" –Miaka collapses from exhaustion-
-Sirius can be seen in the background entering the room and spots the author- "Oh shit, er.. James! I think our author's out cold."
-James also enters the room and sees Miaka- "What should we do?"
"Well I think for starters we should save the document onto a disk and run down to the library. That's where she always updates her fic."
"Ah, okay then. We can't just leave her here though."
-Sirius shrugs and tosses Miaka like a sack of potatoes onto his shoulder before dropping her unceremoniously on her bed- "There, is that good?"
"Yeah, and here I got the document saved."
-And thus Sirius and James save the day by going off to the library and updating the fic-