CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

DISCLAIMER: J.K.ROWLING owns Harry Potter.

Friday, 10th January 1991

More attacks and more death. Felicity was feeling more and more frenzied as her training became more intense, coupled with patrols and personal projects. She knew her mother was worried about her, having seen her several times working till dawn on some projects and getting out of bed at seven.

"I'll drag you to bed myself if I have to, Jas!" she said threateningly once, when she saw her daughter half asleep with a quill hovering midair.

Felicity shook herself from her thoughts as she stifled a yawn, listening to one of the Aurors-Summers- lecture on about the dangers of some antidotes. Felicity was alone since both Moody and Kingsley were busy and so had around ten minutes of the lesson left.

"…and that's enough I s'pose. We've covered half the syllabus in four months and I reckon we'll finish it by March- February, if we're quick enough," he finished, looking relieved.

Felicity gave him a tired smile," Thanks, Auror Summers."

Summers frowned," You look as though you could do with a rest. I can't blame you, the war's been getting rougher," he said heavily.

Felicity agreed before taking her leave.

The brunette gathered her things quickly and said goodbye to a few Aurors before making her way out of the Ministry and flooing home.

Reyna couldn't help the feeling of unease that passed through her as she sat in the common room alone with Zach. The older Slytherins paid her no attention, conversing in low tones and looking as though they were planning something. The atmosphere was relaxed, probably the most relaxed in the whole castle as few students actually looked like they were worried about the war brewing outside.

Her friends were either resting, in the case of Gianna and Graham, or doing their homework, in the case of Zach or else wandering about the castle after snapping to be left alone, in the case of Delilah. Everything around them had somehow gotten more tense, especially as they kept seeing more reports of attacks and death and her worry for her mother grew daily. Unfortunately for her, the few times she'd talked to her mother on the mirror only seemed to magnify her worries as Felicity looked dead exhausted.

"What are you thinking of?" asked Zach, rolling up his parchment and stretching.

Reyna stirred from her thoughts," What else is there to think about, Zach?" she said with a sigh.

Her friend mirrored her sigh before saying," We're eleven years old Reyna, there's practically nothing we can do when we're in the castle except wait to hear what's been going on outside."

"Unfortunately," the young witch muttered.

There was a small silence before Zach said," Have you gotten a chance to speak with Delilah?"

Reyna nodded," First night back, though I wouldn't exactly say I spoke with her," she paused before saying reluctantly," she seems even more withdrawn than usual."

"I reckon it's because of that family of hers. From what I gathered the Selwyns can be rather strict with each other, and Delilah isn't exactly the type to listen," said Zach.

"She's the only Rosier alive, isn't she?" asked Reyna curiously.

"Aye, her father was an only child and the only living family the Rosiers have are the Selwyns, obviously, and the Greengrasses," answered Zach.

Reyna's eyebrows shot up. So her friend was related to Astoria and Daphne. She filed that information away before saying carefully," How is it that you know a lot about the Wizarding Families, Zach?"

Her friend merely gave a dry smile," The Roystons are not as well-known as some of the other families, but we do have our connections," he suddenly leaned closer before saying," and I must say that I've never before heard of any Cade families."

Reyna made sure her expression was neutral before giving a shrug," That's because my parents like to keep out of the shadows, and seeing as such a well-known family doesn't even know our name, I'd say we've succeeded," she replied easily.

Zach stared at intently before giving a chuckle," That I can't argue with. D'you suppose we should go and find Delilah?"

Reyna snorted and got up," And get snapped at before we've opened our mouths? Absolutely. I'll lead the way; I reckon she's up at the Astronomy Tower."

Zach grinned," After you."

Wednesday, 15th January 1991

And so it went on that as the days proceeded Reyna couldn't help but feel slightly apprehensive and confused as she sat with her friends and housemates. She couldn't yet decide who was to be trusted and who was loyal; who would find out her secrets and whether she'd made any real friends.

Gianna wasn't the smartest of the lot but she was high spirited, definitely, not to mention soft spoken. She chatted about her family and didn't really seem to worry much about the outside world. The only times she showed reactions were when the Daily Prophet arrived in the morning, and only then would Reyna see her expression showing any fear-fear for her family, Reyna presumed. She had a slight suspicion that Gianna was scared, probably the most scared out of all them, but she pretended to hide it all beneath her bright personality.

Graham was no different. He was a half-blood but that didn't mean anything. Reyna didn't know whether he'd be on the light side or the dark side in a few years' time seeing as he preferred to not to say a lot about his family. Several times Reyna caught him looking around the common room warily, as though afraid someone might hex him for his blood status.

As for Zach, Reyna admitted that she probably had to say the boy was sometimes too observant for his own good. She noticed the way he said enough to not cause suspicion but kept quiet and looked as though he was silently trying to see who was good enough to trust. The only reason Reyna recognised this behaviour was because it was something that she did as well. By now Reyna had spent enough time at Hogwarts to know that the Roystons were pure blood but of a neutral family. She hadn't a clue whether this meant Zach was good or bad, but something in her made her feel that he might have something within him which was worth fighting for.

Delilah was a bit more complicated. Somehow or the other, Reyna felt a small connection with the other girl as she said nothing most times, not looking interested in their conversations or their games. She was moody and withdrawn, not wanting to mingle, yet whenever someone so much as opened their mouth to ask after her she snapped, silver eyes flashing angrily. It made Reyna wonder what the problem was, and she was convinced that it has something to do with her family, the Selwyns.

As they entered their Potions classroom that day, Snape merely gestured to the blackboard before saying curtly," You have already been taught about the Wiggenweld Potion in the previous lesson and I trust that your memories haven't been short circuited in the past forty-eight hours. Any questions may be answered from the textbook. Begin your individual practical as the potions will be inspected at the end of the lesson."

Reyna and her friends hurried to the cupboards, collecting their ingredients hastily as Snape tolerated no tardiness. She threw Rylan a grin before moving back to her place, which was right behind her brother and right next to Delilah. Not wasting any time, she heated her cauldron and poured the water in before starting on the Wiggentree Bark.

Jasira had always taught her and Rylan to treat Potions carefully and attentively as the slightest distraction could result in a mistake. And as such Reyna made sure she followed the instructions as clearly as she could, glad that the book provided them with correct and easy methods to follow-though she had stuck slightly in the third stage with the dittany but Rylan had mouthed her on how to correct her mistake.

"1, 2, 3, 4, 4, 3, 2…" muttered Delilah, her eyes misting from the heat of the cauldron.

Reyna was almost done, her potion a cheery cream-slightly paler than it ought to be when a shriek was heard at the front of the classroom. Reyna heard Delilah swear as she restarted her counting but the young Cade stood on her toes to see the source of commotion.

"What is the meaning of this?" demanded Snape, his black robes billowing as he towered over Cormac McLaggen, who stood sputtering and glaring at Annalise Vaisey.

"Ask her professor!" he shouted," she's the one who doesn't know how to hold a spoon and smashed it into my cauldron!"

"Five points from Gryffindor for raising your voice, McLaggen and clean up this mess," snapped Snape, before adding," and that will be a fail for you on your assignment seeing as the time is over. Miss Vaisey, I suggest you drop your expression if you want to avoid punishment. The rest of you, I assume your potions are all finished lest I start giving out detentions."

"Tsk, tsk, Mr Walter, I wouldn't give anyone your potion to use though we could try it on you if you prefer a fairer grade. Miss Spinnet, I don't need to tell you that you need a cream coloured potion, not one resembling the trunk of a tree, Miss Hill, the effort can be seen, quite good Miss Rosier, that will be five points to Slytherin," Snape passed by the students giving out cutting comments or praise, not saying anything to Rylan though his potion was much better than the rest of them. He paused by Reyna, staring at the potion before casting such a quick glance at Reyna that the girl almost missed it before saying quietly," ten points to Slytherin, Miss Cade."

As the bell rang, Snape announced," Submit your Potions for grading before you leave. McLaggen, I do not want a single speck of potion to be seen on my floor. Class dismissed."

The students murmured among themselves, casting looks at McLaggen as the young Gryffindor angrily packed up his things and marched out of the classroom, closely followed by the rest of the students.

"Hold it McLaggen, did Vaisey really ruin the potion for you?" called Katie with a frown.

McLaggen sneered," As though I'd be stupid enough to not recognise my own spoon Bell."

"Oh, I wouldn't know, your brain doesn't quite look like it can recognise stupid from blind," said Vaisey with a smirk.

McLaggen took out his wand threateningly before snapping," You watch out Vaisey. One of these days you might find yourself in a mess, you and the rest of your Slytherin mates."

With that said he turned on his heel and left, leaving the rest of the Gryffindors except Rylan to follow as Vaisey said carelessly," It's a pity I hadn't got of that potion on his face, then we wouldn't have to see him at all."

Reyna stepped forward," And it's a pity you weren't caught, Vaisey, I thought childish tricks were above you," she spoke up.

Vaisey rolled her eyes," Of course you'd stand up for the Gryffindor, even if he was a dirty little blood traitor."

"Anything the matter with being a blood traitor, Vaisey? Atleast it shows that we're not scared of the war and hiding behind our father's money. I heard you spent your time in France, funny, when the war's all the way in Britain," said Rylan coolly.

Vaisey flushed and opened her mouth to retort but Rylan had already grabbed Reyna's hand and walked away, her friends not far behind.

"I'm sure Snape did see her," he muttered darkly.

Reyna nodded," But he couldn't very well say something about it, could he? Otherwise the Slytherins might start to wonder why their favourite professor was suddenly being fair to their enemy," she said reasonably.

Wednesdays were probably Felicity's favourite day of the week, since the only thing she did at the Ministry was theory and had no patrols till Sunday. After returning at four in the evening from the Ministry, she was surprised to find Lily there with Melinda, discussing something in the kitchen.

"Ah, Felicity! Training is over then?" Melinda asked, smiling.

Felicity nodded," Gladly, it's only theory today so there's only studying and assignments. How are you, Lily?" she said politely.

Lily gave a tired smile," As well as I can be," the redhead replied.

Felicity gave a small nod before excusing herself to going for a shower upstairs. When she came back half an hour later, she saw that Melinda had had to rush for St Mungo's but Lily was still there. The two didn't say much as Felicity ate quietly and Lily seemed concentrated on her work.

"How is she?" the redhead asked quietly, her hand pausing over the parchment and she looked up," Jasira. You are still corresponding, aren't you?"

Felicity bit her lip and gave a small nod," She's well," she said awkwardly.

There was another silence as Lily seemed to be fighting with herself before she nodded, looking defeated," Any chance of telling us where she is?" the hope in her voice made Felicity feel guilty but she squashed it.

Felicity fiddled with a thread in her blouse before saying," Would you feel better knowing that she was further or near?"

Lily didn't hesitate as she replied," Near."

Raising an eyebrow," Nearer to the war? Closer to death? Higher chances of an attack happening to her?" she asked, looking interested at the answer.

But the redhead only seemed to shake her head slowly," Somehow, Jasira," she said the name carefully, as though pronouncing it slowly would make it less difficult," was never one to stay away from the war for long. And I believe she's too smart to be caught out easily."

Despite herself, Felicity gave a grudging smile, thinking, first correct thing to say that didn't anger me, Lily.

When Lily returned to her work and Felicity was done with eating, the brunette witch said softly," She's in Britain, currently and for the foreseeable future."

Lily looked startled before she gave a wide smile," Thank you," she said sincerely.

Felicity merely nodded.

Thursday, 13th February 1991

"I'm glad you could come, Felicity," said Pandora with a bright smile as she ushered Felicity into the house.

Felicity smiled back," I could hardly miss it when Luna personally asked," she looked around her curiously," where is the birthday girl, Pandora?"

"In her room with Ginevra Weasley and Jasmine Black, along with those two girls that you introduced last time-Cadey and Zoe," replied Pandora, bustling around the room and waving her wand to levitate the posters carefully.

Felicity looked surprised," Cadey and Zoe are close with Luna, then, Pandora?"

Pandora nodded," They got along quite well when their mother brought them. She's quite a timid thing, Aspen."

"A thing which most people now possess thanks to the war," said Felicity with a sigh," will anyone else be arriving?"

Pandora gave her a meaningful look," Molly Weasley will drop by a bit later, and Lily and Alice said they'd like to come for a small visit-it's been ages since we talked properly."

"Oh?" said Felicity," Why's that?"

Pandora paused to glance back before saying quietly," Everyone's been protecting their families and focusing on the war to properly engage with each other. The bonds as a community are no longer there."

Felicity didn't reply, instead standing up to help her prepare the place for Luna.

The event was quite small and with much less laughter than Nathan's birthday but it was a happy affair nonetheless. Luna was delighted with her presents and smiled brightly at the new book on magical creatures that Felicity had gotten her. She seemed to get along fairly well with Jasmine and Ginny, the former of whom Felicity couldn't help looking at curiously.

The girl seemed to be the perfect mixture of Marlene and Sirius, with Marlene's long blonde hair and Sirius' grey eyes. She would be turning six this year, Felicity thought with a smile as she watched the young girl smiling brightly and chatting with Cadey, who seemed to be around her age. Felicity couldn't help feeling happy that Marlene had gotten the life she'd wanted with the man she loved, and their daughter was beautiful.

When it was around eight, Lily and Alice had already arrived and Ginny had gone home with Molly via the floo when the redhead had dropped in for a visit. Felicity noted that the kids were taken home before it was too late, with the mothers glancing anxiously outside. It was a few moments after Ginny had gone when Aspen arrived.

"Lily, Alice, this is Aspen, a friend of mine," introduced Pandora as the other woman stepped into the house nervously. She seemed relieved when she caught sight of Felicity and threw her a smile.

"It's nice to meet you," said Lily with a smile.

"How are you, Aspen?" asked Pandora, offering the woman a cup of tea as she sat down.

Aspen gave a tired smile," Quite alright, Pandora. I take it the celebration went well?" she said, with a nod at the now messy room.

Pandora gave a chuckle," The girls enjoyed themselves, I'm glad to say. I haven't seen my Luna smile so brightly in a while," she said with a smile before adding," Zoe and Cadey are upstairs, I'll be back in a bit with them."

There was a slightly awkward silence before Alice said," I'm sorry, but I seem to recall you from somewhere. Do you perhaps work in the Ministry?"

Aspen looked startled before giving a nod," In the Department of Magical Transportation," she answered before hesitating as she said," I believe it was you who helped me in calling for Felicity last year at the Ministry."

Alice's eyes flashed in recognition and she gave a nod," Ah yes, I remember now."

Aspen nodded as well," You have quite a nice friend, Mrs Longbottom," she said sincerely.

There was an awkward silence as none of the women knew how to respond and Felicity wasn't keen to bring up the topic of how her stay was going and so decided to make small conversation about work. It was a relief when Zoe came running and threw her arms round her mum with Cadey following close behind.

"Can we stay the night mum? Please? Luna says we can talk about nargles and she'll show us how to see them," said Cadey excitedly while Zoe nodded enthusiastically.

Aspen gave a small smile and said gently," I'm sorry girls but I'm afraid we can't for tonight, perhaps some other time, if Pandora doesn't mind."

Pandora smiled cheerfully," Not at all, it would be quite alright for them to come, a bit of company wouldn't harm anyone."

With that said, they said their goodbyes and left, leaving them behind.

"Is Luna asleep, Pandora? I'd like to say goodbye before leaving," asked Felicity questioningly.

Pandora arched an eyebrow," I'm sure you could stay for a while, Felicity," she said innocently, throwing her a small wink when the others weren't looking.

Alice gave a nod and said chirpily," It'd be good to get to know you better, Felicity. It's not often we meet people who're able to argue skillfully against Moody."

"Yes, and Pandora speaks quite highly of you," said Lily sweetly, though Felicity caught a small mischievous gleam in the redhead's eye.

She gave a light shrug and inclined her head, sitting back in her position.

"Lily, you mentioned something about your research the other day. How is It going?" said Pandora suddenly when they had passed the conversation of the war outside.

Lily looked frustrated as she said," Not as well as I'd like, I'm afraid. It's the most challenging one yet and everyone at the sector seems quite at a loss. We've tried various factors and spells along with runes but none of them have worked."

Pandora looked thoughtful while Alice said," But I thought you'd gotten somewhere with the rune. Didn't one of your colleagues seem to find a way round the wards?"

Lily nodded," Yes, but right when we thought the spell had succeeded it backfired. We had to start reconstructing the labs again before we could continue as the spell had damaged quite a bit of the sector," she explained.

"Are you a researcher, Lily?" asked Felicity, looking curious at her friend's latest project.

"I work in the Charms and Ancient Runes department at one of the research facilities in Wizarding Britain," she said.

"Lily's being modest," Pandora chipped in," Lily works as one of the main witches responsible for the founding of new Charms spells in objects to ensure better protection in our lives. Her work relates closely with that of Ancient Runes and they've been able to create and tweak a number of spells that might help in winning the war."

Lily blushed while Alice grinned.

Felicity sounded intrigued," What's your latest work, then? Are you permitted to revealing what you're working on? I thought research sectors made their workers take a secrecy oath to ensure that whatever work went on there wasn't revealed until it was ready."

Lily looked surprised," They do tell us to take an oath," she looked curiously at Felicity and asked," You're quite informed about this, Felicity."

Felicity smiled," I worked privately concerning work similar to what you're doing, so I'm familiar with the oaths. If I may, perhaps I might be able to help with your current project," she suggested, before furrowing her brow inwardly, wondering why she offered.

Pandora smiled widely as she nodded," I've seen some of Felicity's work, Lily. She's quite brilliant with Charms as well."

Alice shook her head and chuckled," You seem to be quite the witch, Felicity. But are you sure you'll be able to help Lily? I mean, you've got training and patrols and those are quite a lot without adding more on the list," she said, looking concerned.

Lily looked at her as well but Felicity shook her head and gave a wry smile," I'm afraid procrastinating is a horrible habit of mine, and unfortunately, or, fortunately, it's something I find enjoyable."

The other women laughed, though when Felicity wasn't looking she didn't catch the expression on Lily's face as the redhead frowned slightly.

Thursday, 20th February 1991

Felicity had to admit that although her training sessions were now intense, she knew that that the more intense they were the closer she was to finishing. Her patrols were going as smoothly as they could and she and Marlene made small talk though she still kept her distance. Anytime she glanced at one of the Marauders they'd be busy rushing from office to office or buried in paperwork in the case of Remus. Irena was barely out of the office and Dimitri was almost always away on patrol or field work with Sirius or Kingsley.

On Thursday, after she was done with dueling one of the Aurors for her training session and had managed to satisfy Moody for the day she went back home at around six in the evening, exhausted and craving sleep. She smiled tiredly at her mother as she dropped onto the sofa.

"Busy day?" asked Melinda softly.

"Like no other."

"I'm sorry to say that Lily asked for you at around eight if possible at Godric's Hollow," said Melinda, raising an eyebrow.

Felicity frowned before her brow cleared," Ah, I was expecting it."

"And might I ask why?"

"I offered to help her with her project, she mentioned that it was a bit of a challenge," said Felicity causally.

"You offered?" asked Melinda incredulously.

Felicity bit back a smile," Isn't that what all of you have been wanting me to do? get back in touch with the rest of them?" she said tiredly.

Melinda was silent before she spoke, a slight edge to her voice that surprised her daughter," Felicity, not that I don't want you back on speaking terms with the others, but I think that you're taking on too much. You already have patrols, training, helping your father with the orphanage, your personal project that you refuse to talk about and now you've offered to help Lily. What's going to happen when Reyna and Rylan come back and realize their mother will barely have enough time with the things she's taking on?" she said, sounding annoyed and crossing her arms.

Felicity sighed," Mum, whatever the circumstances I will always make time for my children. And by the time the kids return I'll almost be done with training. As for helping dad it's simply a matter of dedicating a small amount of time from me and discussing a few things with him," she said calmly.

"And Lily?" her mum asked, still not quite accepting her answer.

Felicity hesitated," I'll handle it."

"Jas…" started Melinda, her motherly warning tone creeping into her voice but Felicity shook her head.

"Mum, please, if I don't try to be as busy as possible helping others then I'll start feeling useless," she said quietly.

Melinda was silent before giving a sigh," As you wish, Jasira," she said, pursing her lips and looking displeased.

At precisely eight Felicity flooed to Godric's Hollow, looking around nervously before stepping through. She was about to call when Lily appeared holding a wand, eyes narrowed. She relaxed slightly when she saw Felicity and beckoned her to the kitchen.

"I'm sorry for that, it's just that attacks have been increasing and things have been tense," she explained, gesturing at her sit at the kitchen table.

"It's alright. Melinda mentioned you wanted to discuss a few things?" asked Felicity, getting straight to the point as she always did.

Lily nodded," I remembered that you offered to help and I was hoping you'd be able to," she started before pausing.

Felicity realized she was waiting for a response and nodded her affirmative," Of course."

Lily smiled," Brilliant," she looked nervous before saying in a small rush," Felicity, I know we haven't exactly gotten along quite well since we met but I hope we can put that behind us. Nathan and Harry have both taken a liking to you and Remus seems to like you as well and I don't like the feeling that-"

"Lily," interrupted Felicity, hiding a smile at her friend's rambling that hadn't stopped since they were thirteen," I understand, and I believe we can put our last few encounters behind us and start…afresh."

Lily looked relieved and said lightly," Great."

"If I may ask, where are Harry and Nathan?"

"I've taken them to a friend of mine to stay for the night. They often have sleepovers with the Blacks," answered Lily. She placed a glass of pumpkin juice and said blithely," Remus mentioned you liked pumpkin juice."

Felicity nodded at the glass," Indeed."

There was a pause before Lily said," I'm glad to say that most of the work of the project was a personal idea that I had taken to the research sector and so my secrecy oath doesn't object to me mentioning its key points outside of the factor."

Felicity inclined her head to show that she was listening and the redhead went on," Well, originally the charm's main function was to absorb whatever dark spell approached the receiver in order to weaken the spell's power enough to cause a small turbulence to the caster. But a few days' work into the charm showed us that this wouldn't be possible unless the spell was still being held by the caster."

"You mean like the cruciatus curse," realized Felicity, sounding impressed.

Lily nodded," Exactly, but the cruciatus curse is one of the few main spells that are held by the caster while being placed on the receiver, which will make the charm a bit useless since it will be difficult to discern when to use the spell."

"Difficult, but still useful. This will be able to limit the amount of damage the torture curse can affect people," said Felicity before frowning," why did you say 'originally'?"

Lily grimaced," I'm afraid the dark spells weren't the only problems. We figured out that to make the charm work we'd need quite high arithmetic numerals in order to find the exact pattern in which to absorb the spell and weaken its power. Now, the arithmetic numerals weren't the problems, but the pattern for the wand work proved more difficult than we thought. It wasn't just about how the wand moved in a certain direction, but it was also how exactly we could transfer the power from the witch or wizard into the wand by use of the magical core and connection. Charms isn't only about protection or healing, it deals deeply with the connection that a witch or wizard has with their core," she explained.

Felicity nodded slowly," Have you found a solution for the pattern?"

"We believe we have, and I'm sorry to say I can't say the details of that," she said apologetically before continuing," but we haven't been able to find a solution for the connection of the magical core. We've tried using Ancient Runes as a way to use the protective runic formulas that exist as an alternative to making a spell but that only resulted in damage of one of our experimental labs."

Felicity tapped her fingers lightly on the table before asking," Where have you reached now?"

Lily scowled slightly as she said," We thought perhaps tweaking the spells function might prove more successful by instead of absorbing the dark spell's power it could instead weaken it by giving the receiver enough strength to fight back. But this still requires a connection with their magical core, however small it may be."

Felicity looked thoughtful before saying suddenly," Have you thought about making it a wandless charm?"

Lily looked slightly confused but Felicity said quickly," It would lessen the connection with the use of one's wand because wandless magic requires magic only from the witch or wizard's core, which would precisely fit into the requirements of the spell."

Lily nodded, her eyes widening," This will make it easier-especially if the receiver can use it wandlessly without the caster knowing, which will not only be an element of surprise but will help in winning the battle! Felicity, it's brilliant!" she said excitedly, her eyes bright.

Felicity gave a small laugh," Imagine the death eaters who'd be disappointed at not being able to inflict pain at their victims. It'll be a small victory to us."

Lily smirked slightly and Felicity was transported back to the Lily Evans who was only too happy to hear that rule breakers had not been let off as she said," And it will lessen the amount of pain we've had to deal with. I need to send word to the sector immediately and we'll be able to work on the spell tomorrow."

Felicity stood up, quite ready to leave when Lily said with a grin," What we failed to achieve in months you managed to less in than an hour."

"Research is something I'm familiar with," she said softly before saying," I'd best be going."

Lily's face fell before she mastered up a smile," Thank you for your help, Felicity. When the spell comes through it will have been you who managed to make it work," she said sincerely.

Felicity blushed slightly before saying," I think the one who came up with this deserves more credit."

Lily didn't quite reply, though she saw her out with a small smile.

Friday, 28th February 1991

Felicity had never been more tired as she flooed in her living room home, her back and arms aching from crouching and dueling nonstop for two hours. Before that she'd had a nice 2 hours of warming up in the training rooms before Moody had given her a stack of parchments with a grunt of," I need them in by Monday."

Felicity hadn't bothered pointing out that there were fourteen assignments and only two days to complete them all, and even then she had training on tomorrow, leaving her with only a couple of hours to finish them.

With a sigh, the brunette witch made her way up the stairs before swishing sound made her whirl round, her wand in her hand before a Lynx-Kingsley's patronus-appeared before her and saying gravely," Attack at the Lovegood's. You're needed."

Felicity's blood ran cold as she let out a gasp and ran outside, slamming shut the door before apparating in the middle of Ottery St Catchpole. She inhaled sharply as she took in the scene a few distance from her. Around ten or so death eaters surrounding the Lovegood's house and a few others in the muggle village not far from there. There were only about five Aurors helping the Lovegoods while the majority were in the muggle village.

Felicity's face hardened as she pointed her wand at one of the death eaters and stunned him before taking off at a run. Her body immediately went into battle mode as she mentally prepared shields in case of an attack and kept a firm grip on her wand in case she was to be disarmed.

"Protego!" she hissed, waving a hand around her as three spells from different directions came at her. They're aiming at me, she realized, looking around her quickly and recognizing the death eaters that had shot at her. They'd been the ones she'd portkeyed to the Ministry but had managed to escape.

"Get in the house to the Lovegoods! Make sure they make it away safely," yelled Frank, dueling fiercely with two death eaters, and gesturing at her furiously.

Felicity paused to shoot a spell behind her before running into the house, the door being opened. Her pulse quickened as she heard screams coming from the direction of Pandora's study and two unconscious bodies of Aurors before taking off in that direction. Just as she was about to enter the doorway lit up in flames and she froze- a memory of the McKinnon attack hitting her in the face before she bolted inside, shooting bursts of water from her wand whenever the fire thickened.

"Luna! Pandora!" she shouted, her eyes misting from the heat as the flames spread. It wasn't fiendfyre but something horrifyingly close.

She took a deep breath before saying," Homenum Revelio."

Her wand made no movements which caused her to be confused before she glimpsed two blonde figures at the back of the house and her pulse quickened. Swearing, she ran towards the kitchen door, shooting a spell straight at the nearest death eater whose back was to her and watched as he fell down with a grunt.

"Pandora," she whispered, horrified as she saw her friend's awful state. There was a gash on the side of her head and she was breathing harshly.

Felicity started to make her way towards her before a spell came at her from her right and she doubled over, glancing at her bleeding side. Lifting her head, she saw a spell coming right at her before conjuring up a shield charm, willing her body to be strong and overcome the pain. She lifted her wand and began to duel the death eater, wincing as her insides seemed to churn as the death eater smirked, moving closer to her.

"I've heard quite a lot about you," he said, sounding oddly disdainful," I must say, I've no idea what the fuss was about."

Felicity's eyes flashed and she gritted her teeth. At the corner of her eye she was Moody dueling with three death eaters but it seemed it was only the two of them. Two other Aurors lay unconscious near her and she said with a snarl," You'll be sorry for this."

The death eater didn't have a chance to respond before Felicity made a slashing gesture with her wand and the death eater flew backwards in a somersault before hitting the ground, unmoving. Without hesitating Felicity threw a spell at one of the death eaters, barely pausing to watch as he hit the ground before running to her friend.

"Luna," gasped Pandora," inside, one of them's got her."

Felicity gave a small nod, looking grim," I'll portkey you to St Mungo's-"

"No! They've got my daughter Jas! Please, save her," cut in Pandora, looking furious and pleading as her eyes glistened with tears.

Felicity opened her mouth, trying to control her feeling of panic before she saw Pandora's eyes widen. Instinctively, the brunette threw up a shield, crouching and grimacing as she saw her blood on her hands. She lifted her head and froze as she saw Luna Lovegood being held by Mulciber with a knife under her neck.

Pandora let out a small cry and grabbed Felicity's wand before aiming a spell at him-and missed. Mulciber didn't look the slightest bit worried as he walked closer to them, holding Luna by her hair as Moody was still engrossed with two other death eaters and one Auror-Ferguson-started up a duel with another.

Silently, Felicity shot a non-verbal stunning curse at Mulciber but the death eater used Luna as a defense and the spell hit her. Both women gasped, looking murderously at him as Mulciber dug the knife deeper into Luna's neck, the girl now unconscious.

Pandora clutched Felicity's hand, looking terrified as she said, her voice shaking slightly," Let her go."

"Or what?" Mulciber stared at them in distaste before saying," This is a lesson to the blood traitors. Whatever the Dark Lord wants, he will get it. Avada- "

"No!" Felicity flicked her wrist, shooting three spells in quick succession and succeeding in making Mulciber drop Luna as his face erupted into boils. He slashed wildly, missing Luna by inches before Felicity dived for the girl and revived her, placing her in Pandora's arms.

"Thank you Jasira!" said Pandora, her arms reaching out to hug her daughter as she whispered words in Luna's ears.

Felicity didn't pause as she grabbed her wand from Pandora and cried," Stupe- "

"Avada Kedavra!"

In disbelief, Felicity stiffened as she heard a scream and a thud behind her, not daring to believe it. Her wand dropped from her hand as she turned her head, slowly and forgetting that she was in battle as her eyes caught sight of Pandora's limp, lifeless form and Luna crying over her mother, shaking her as she tried to wake her.

Felicity's eyes glistened and a memory of Dorcas appeared in her mind, with Rosier's wand raised and her friend's lifeless form. She inhaled sharply before letting out a snarl and whirling round, shooting stinging spells at Mulciber's surprised face, making him horribly disfigured before she yelled," Flipendo!" she wasn't even aware of the force behind her spell as Mulciber was thrown straight into one of the house's window and smashing it in before going through and landing into the only room that wasn't on fire.

Trembling, Felicity turned to Luna, whose tears were now coming in rapidly as she whimpered her mother's name. Felicity's eyes traced Pandora's hand on her daughter's cheek and her green eyes wide and open. Without thinking, Felicity pulled Luna gently from her mother, barely noticing how the young girl didn't even fight and cried onto her chest. She was barely aware as a shadow appeared before her and Moody's voice said carefully," Cade, I'm afraid you're needed at the Ministry."

Felicity looked up at Moody before asking tonelessly," What about Luna?"

Frank appeared, his eyes swollen and lip bleeding as he said quietly," I'll take her to my home. Alice will be there."

Felicity didn't move, didn't nod. Her eyes returned to Pandora's still form and a small tear escaped. Shakily, she reached out to close her friend's eyes as she held Luna carefully. The girl shook her head, her eyes red as she whispered," Daddy. Where's daddy?"

"Xeno's inside, he's-he's alright," said Frank quietly.

"I want daddy," said Luna, now holding onto her mother's hand tightly.

"Is he conscious?" asked Felicity, looking at Moody and Frank.

Frank glanced at Luna before shaking his head slightly," He needs to be taken to St Mungo's."

Felicity nodded before saying gently to Luna," Daddy needs care before he meets you, Luna. Aunt Alice is waiting for you."

Luna stared at her mother, her eyes unflinching and wide before the young girl reached over to wipe away the blood that was on her mother's face. She nodded silently, not turning away from her mother's face before Frank reached out to grab her hand.

"I'll see you two at the Ministry," he said grimly.

Felicity was sure she would barely have arrived at the Ministry in one piece if it wasn't for Moody. The Head of Trainee was holding her hand in a tight grip as though he thought she might escape. Felicity scarcely had time to realize that they weren't headed to the Ministry reporting rooms and were instead heading to Moody's private office before the door slammed shut and the other Auror snapped spells at them.

"What are you-"she started before stopping as Moody faced her, his electric eye zooming swiftly around her and she realized.

"You know," she said flatly, still holding her bleeding side. Despite herself, Felicity didn't know what to expect and so waited.

Moody stared at her, before reaching over with his wand. Felicity flinched and the Auror paused," Reckon Melinda'll have my head if you arrive half dead home," he grunted.

"How long have you known?" she asked, not meeting his eyes.

Moody was quiet before saying," Realized something was fishy since I noticed the illusions on that Potter kid's birthday. Thought you were a spy before I knew you knew about Sergey. I've been watching you, trying to see when you might slip but you were good. Lovegood just about confirmed my suspicions today," there was a short silence before he added gruffly," My condolences, didn't know you two were close."

Felicity breathed shakily," Yeah well, she was one of the first ones to know who I am."

"Sergey-"Moody started but Felicity cut him off.

"Moody, please, I want to go home and deal with my grief. I don't think you realize what Pandora's death brought on, or do you remember a similar situation fourteen years ago?"

Moody said nothing, likely because he knew Felicity didn't want to hear him out before saying with a nod," I'll tell the others you had to go because of the injury."

Felicity let out a small smile and headed towards the floo before Moody called," Sergey?"

She turned.

There was a small smile on his face as he said," It's good to know you're alive and fighting."

Felicity gave him a sad smile," I never stopped fighting, Alastor, not for one second."

Melinda Culbert POV

It was almost eight when Melinda flooed back to Culbert Hall, and she made a beeline for her daughter's room, feeling grief-stricken and concerned for her daughter. She'd been at St Mungos' when Xenophilius Lovegood had been rushed in, tortured and injured but alive and had heard the news.

Pandora Lovegood was dead.

Her mind had immediately gone to Jasira and she knew her daughter must have been at the scene. Scared and in a rush, she'd finished her job as soon as she could and flooed home. Now she gave a brisk knock before entering Jasira's room.

Her daughter was sitting on her bed, clutching a photograph and staring at it as tears flowed from her eyes. She'd removed her glamour and her dark eyes were red and swollen.

"Oh, Jas," said Melinda softly, closing the door and walking towards her daughter before engulfing her in a hug.

"You heard, then?" said Jasira, her voice muffled.

Melinda let out a breath," Xenophilius will be alright, tortured and injured but he'll live," she said quietly before adding," How is Luna?"

Jasira closed her eyes as she responded," She seemed to understand quickly, too quickly for a child to comprehend the fact that her mother died infront of her eyes-holding her. She's with the Longbottoms now."

"Luna always was perceptive, the poor child," murmured Melinda, watching as her daughter opened her eyes to view the picture. "What's that?"

Jasira held it tighter and her voice shook as she said," A picture of me and girls back at Hogwarts in our Seventh year. I-Dorcas-"

"You don't have to say it, Jas," said Melinda softly.

Jasira jerked away from her, her eyes glistening as she said hotly," Of course I have to say it, mum. After D-Dorcas' death I promised not to let any of my other friends die at the hands of a death eater while I'm still alive and look what happened! She was right behind me and I just stood there-stupid, thinking that because I was infront of them a spell couldn't get them anywhere else. Pandora relied on me and I've let her down. I wanted L-Luna to have a life with her mother in it but I only bought her a couple of months."

Melinda's heart broke as she looked at her daughter's crying face and she pulled her back gently. She said nothing, because she knew whatever she said wouldn't make Jasira feel better. For her daughter, nothing anyone said except Aidan had made a difference and she closed her eyes as she remembered the other things that had hurt her beautiful, brave daughter.

"You have no idea of the difference those couple of months might have done to Luna, Jas," she said softly," You gave her an opportunity to be able to make more friends and have fun. I had a talk with Lily and she told me she'd never seen Luna be so happy in quite a while."

Jasira said nothing, letting her mother stroke her hair as they both stared at the photograph in her hands.