A/N: We're back! As always, reviews are great. Thanks heaps to those who were kind enough to offer their thoughts on the last chapter.
VI. Only A Matter of Time
"Death belongs to the dying and those who love them."
– Sherwin B. Nuland
The image of his father's tear-streaked face would remain with James forever.
Sirius placed a hand on his shoulder. No words needed to be said.
"I think it is wise for you to be with your family at this time," Dumbledore spoke softly. "Minerva, kindly make the necessary arrangements for Mr Potter. And Mr Black?"
Nathaniel nodded.
"Of course. Albion will appreciate his being there."
Dumbledore inclined his head in response.
"Mr Black too, then."
Three Aurors stepped out of the fireplace following a flash of green fire.
"Sir, ."
Nathaniel nodded.
"Any leads?" he asked.
"Moody's on the ground as we speak," said the first Auror.
"Good."
"There's a fair chance that this is retaliation," added the second Auror.
"Retaliation for what?" James asked.
"A lot of things are about to happen," Nathaniel replied. "I'll explain what needs to be said later."
"Minerva, would you be so kind as to escort the boys back to their dorm? I imagine they will want to collect some belongings before their departure," Dumbledore said.
"We're leaving tonight?" Sirius asked.
"That's why the Aurors are here," Dumbledore replied.
"Come now, Potter, Black," McGonagall said, and ushered them from the room.
"The Auror Commander is waiting in London," the first Auror said.
"And we also need to brief the Minister as soon as magically possible," added the third.
Nathaniel turned to the second Auror.
"O'Rourke, will you escort James and Sirius to my home? They know the address. I'll be back later."
"Yes sir."
The two men wearing nondescript Ministry robes had been silent throughout the entire exchange.
"Dumbledore," spoke the first.
"Yes?" the Headmaster replied.
"I understand that this is inconvenient timing, but the matter we were discussing cannot wait."
"What's going on, Albus?" Nathaniel asked, his eyes narrowed. "Why is the Department of Mysteries here?"
"I'm afraid he cannot say," replied the first Unspeakable. "It's above your clearance."
"We'll see," Nathaniel replied flatly.
"We must insist, Headmaster," the second Unspeakable added.
"Of course," Dumbledore replied, standing. "Minerva will serve in my absence. To the Ministry, then."
McGonagall's interruption was the talk of the Gryffindor table in the Great Hall the following morning.
"What do you think happened?"
"His parents, maybe?"
"Why did Black go as well?"
"Did you look at her face? And his, as they left?"
A group had gathered around Remus and Peter, who sat at the table with stony expressions. Their food lay barely touched on their plates.
"Remus, surely you know something? Peter?"
"Look, James and Sirius came back to the dorm about twenty minutes later. We spoke for all of a couple of minutes," Remus narrated. "They collected some clothing, and then left again. That's all I'm saying."
"It'll be in the papers soon enough anyway," Peter added.
"In the meantime, you can respect his wish for privacy," Remus admonished the group hanging on his every word. "Merlin knows he doesn't get much."
And with that, the two remaining Marauders, sharing a look that spoke volumes between them, left the table.
The news broke later that day. A small group of Gryffindors gathered around Lily in the Common Room as she read aloud from her updated copy of the Sunday Prophet.
ELDA POTTER AND CHILDREN KILLED: ATTACK ON Prominent Ministry official and family ROCKS WIZARDING WORLD
Elda Potter, a prominent legal administrator for the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, and her two children, were announced dead by the Ministry in an official statement earlier today. Mrs Potter, the wife of influential Wizengamot member Albion Potter, and their two children were discovered killed at their family home last night. Through voluntary submission to Veritaserum, Mr Potter has been ruled out as a suspect, and the perpetrator remains unknown. Aurors in charge of the investigation declined to give further comment on the incident, claiming that they had no authorisation to do so.
Sources inside the Ministry suggest that fears have been expressed for safety of the remaining members of the Potter family, who include Auror Nathaniel Potter - a close confidant of Hogwarts Headmaster Albus Dumbledore.
It is expected that Aurors will be assigned to their protection, and the Prophet understands Dumbledore is intending to heighten the level of security further around Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where Nathaniel Potter's only son is currently a sixth-year student.
"This is horrible," Marlene said quietly. "Poor James. I can't imagine what he's going through."
"It says here that the funeral is on Wednesday," observed Lily, reading onwards.
"It's just awful!" Lucy Doherty added, only recently returned from the Hospital Wing.
The portrait hole opened and Remus and Peter appeared.
Lily flashed the paper at them.
"We've just found out."
Peter nodded sombrely.
"Have you heard from them?" Lucy asked.
"Not much. James said that the Ministry doesn't want them communicating. They're worried about further attacks."
"Why? Why does someone do this?" Marlene asked.
"They've got enemies," Remus answered. "There are a lot of people out there who would like to see the Potters suffer."
"But murder?"
Remus met Lily's gaze.
"I suppose it was only ever going to be a matter of time."
"I must return to Hogwarts, Nathaniel," Dumbledore remarked. "I fear I might become a distraction if I stay in London any longer. I'll return for Wednesday."
"It's been good to see you, old friend. Even under these circumstances."
"Indeed."
"Albus, once this is done with, you and I are going to have a talk about Level Nine," Nathaniel said evenly.
"Forgive me my secrets, Nathaniel."
"My patience is wearing thin, Albus. Every passing day they grow stronger and more brazen. People are becoming more fearful - and they only know what we're feeding them through the Prophet. Imagine if they knew even half of what's going on!"
"Which is why we must keep this quiet for as long as we can."
"I fear that window is closing."
"I agree. Before long, Riddle will show his hand."
"Will you fight him if need be?"
"My foremost duty is to Hogwarts. I must keep the School safe, and isolated. Behind her gates, my students are still children."
Dumbledore picked up a small briefcase.
"Keep an eye on Crouch for me."
"Of course."
"And try and stay out of trouble."
"I'm in the wrong business for that, old friend."
Dumbledore shot him a wry smile, and disappeared.
Lily looked up at the empty chair in the Great Hall. The Headmaster was conspicuous in his absence.
"Dumbledore's not in this morning."
"I'm not surprised," Remus said, reaching for a pitcher of pumpkin juice. "He'll be at the funeral, no doubt."
"Does he know the Potters well?"
"Yeah. I remember visiting James over the summer after fourth year, and Dumbledore was just sitting in the kitchen, chatting with James' mother. Discussing knitting, of all things."
"Do you know when he's back?" Marlene asked.
"Dumbledore?"
"James."
"No idea. Can't imagine it'll be much longer though."
Thunder rumbled in the distance, followed by a flash of lightning that illuminated the enchanted ceiling.
Rain streamed off the umbrella, forming a puddle in the mud. James lifted a foot, and placed it back down with a squelch. Several figures in black suits stood dotted around the periphery.
There was not one hint of colour here, as he watched a throng of people congregated around three fresh mounds of dirt.
His father approached him, and cleared his throat.
"We haven't talked."
"Not much to say," James replied.
"Yeah."
They stood silently, one aged by all he had seen and done, the other still so young.
"Where's Sirius?" Nathaniel asked.
"Chatting with his Uncle."
"Alphard's getting on a bit."
"Mmm."
They fell into silence.
"How's school?"
"It's good."
"Good."
Yet another pause.
"Defence?" Nathaniel enquired.
"Professor is a bit rubbish," James said.
"The Minister would rather not emphasise giving combat lessons to students at the moment."
"What does Dumbledore think about that?"
"He has his reasons."
James' reply was cut off by another figure - Moody.
"Potter," the grizzled Auror said, ignoring James.
"Alastor."
"Got something you might want to see. Or rather, someone," he said, before casting his eye on James.
"Condolences for your loss, boy."
"Can this wait?"
"Don't know how much longer we'll be able to keep the bastard alive," Moody replied in a low tone, looking all the world like the cat that had got the cream.
Nathaniel sighed.
"Find your mother. Let her know I'll–"
"–be back later," James finished.
His father took Moody's arm, and the two vanished with a faint crack.
"Bye," James murmured.
Rain pelted against the windows of the Gryffindor Common Room as the students huddled in groups, engaged in homework
"The weather's been rubbish all week," Marlene complained.
"Fitting, really," Peter said, not looking up from the notes he was scribbling down on a scroll of parchment.
"This bloody storm!" exclaimed a voice irritably.
Remus looked up.
"That's Sirius!"
He looked up to see Sirius climb out of the portrait hole with a profoundly disgusted expression on his features.
"I'm soaked to the bloody bone!" he announced as he joined the group, removing his overcoat and dropping his bag on the carpet with a dull thud. "I need a shower, a drink, and a good root–"
"You're just charming," Lily said.
"Thanks, Evans."
He shook his head, sending droplets of water everywhere and earning a disgruntled look from a huddle of second-years.
"Where's Prongs?" Peter questioned.
"He's still at the old house. Didn't say when he'd be back for certain but it's already driving him spare. My guess is tomorrow."
"What was it like?"
"Hectic," Sirius said. "Couldn't scratch my arse without an Auror noticing. Whoever did this, they've kicked the proverbial hornet's nest. Overheard two Aurors talking about using Unforgivables. To hear it from the MLE, it sounds like they're at war."
"What about the funeral?"
"Just sad. Awful thing really. Same deal, security everywhere. Everyone who's anyone was there. James' uncle was a mess. Like he'd been kissed by a Dementor or something. Just empty. I mean, last summer James' mum was scolding him for making crude jokes at dinner. Now…" Sirius trailed off with a shrug.
He arrived at dinner the following evening. As the sky belched out a fresh round of thunder, he slipped through the entrance into the Great Hall. His sopping hair was plastered to his head, and water ran off his cloak in rivulets. As the hushed whispers grew with every step, he looked at no one, gazing ahead with empty eyes.
James Potter had been through more than one storm.
Remus loaded a plate with food, and slid it over to an empty space as students began to turn back to their meals.
"Here mate."
"Thanks Moony."
James took off his glasses and ran a hand through his hair, before digging into his meal.
"You alright Prongs?" Sirius asked.
"Yeah. I mean, it's hard, knowing that you won't see your cousin arrive at Hogwarts next year or get Sorted, or…anything," James replied. His face was a hollow mask.
Sirius, Remus, and Peter exchanged a glance.
"It's all so sad," Marlene observed, watching their interaction from further down the table.
"I can't imagine what he's going through - let alone his uncle," Lily replied. "Burying your family all on the same day…"
"You know, he's made a lot of enemies over the years," Nicholas said, digging into his potatoes next to Lily.
Marlene frowned.
"Working in the MLE will do that for you," she pointed out.
"I'm not trying to offend anyone, this is just the way I see it," Nicholas replied. "Look, maybe Albion Potter got what was coming to him."
His words could be heard by half the table. Almost as one, the Gryffindor students turned to look at the Slytherin. Lily winced inwardly at their collective glares, and from the corner of her eye, she saw Remus put a restraining hand on James' arm.
"You don't mean–" Lily started.
"Oh, I know it's a tragedy," Nicholas added. "I wouldn't wish it on any wizard, coming home to find your wife and daughters dead."
Sirius got up from his seat and moved quickly down the table towards Nicholas. His face was like thunder.
"Leave, now," he said, with venom in his voice. It sent a chill through Lily.
"Gladly, Black," Nicholas replied, with an edge to his voice. "You have a certain stench that I try to avoid if at all possible. Reminds me of betrayal."
Nicholas met her eyes as he left, and winked.
Lily looked back to Sirius, who looked on the verge of bloodshed, and was never more thankful for Dumbledore's presence, seated up at the Head table. The black-haired boy turned to her, his eyes a steely grey.
"The next time your date decides to voice his opinions, make sure he does it at his own table," he threatened, his voice low. "Because if he sits his arse on a Gryffindor seat ever again, I personally guarantee that he'll end up in a St Mungos bed."
He stalked back to his seat, not waiting for an answer from her.
Lily quickly gathered up her books and left the table, feeling suddenly like an unwelcome guest in her own home.
"Mate, I know you're not alright, so I'm not going to bothered asking."
"I want to kill them, Padfoot," James said, his voice a whisper. "If they were here, the ones who did it, right now, I'd point my wand, and–"
"I know, mate. So would I. But it won't bring them back. They can't be brought back."
"I KNOW! DON'T FUCKING TELL ME…" shouted James, before realising his outburst and trailing off.
"It's okay, Prongs."
"Sorry…I, I…just need to be alone right now, yeah?"
"Yeah mate, s'alright. Here, I'll fetch you a drink and leave you to it."
Sirius handed him a bottle of Firewhiskey from under his bed, and headed downstairs to the Common Room. He made his way over to where Remus and Peter sat, a chessboard between them.
"Verdict?" Peter asked.
"Give him another three days," Sirius replied. "I'll see if we can get him flying. Full moon is coming up too."
"Don't remind me," said Remus.
"It'll keep him distracted, I mean."
Remus nodded.
"Now, about the other matter," Sirius added.
"It can't go unanswered," Peter replied.
"It won't," Sirius said darkly.
His fist connected with the boy's face. Despite the height advantage, the older boy reeled from the blow. A second hit to the jaw floored him.
"Old Knuckleduster Charm always works a treat," James spat. "Should've kept your mouth shut, Wright."
He lashed out again, delivering a swift kick to Nicholas' chest as the boy tried to stand.
The other Marauders watched the grisly scene unfold, as James launched two quick jabs, drawing blood. Another hit to the jaw, and he felt the satisfying crunch of bone breaking.
"That's enough," Remus warned.
"We're done here," Sirius added with grim satisfaction.
Lily approached the Marauders - sans James - at breakfast on Saturday with a scowl on her features.
"Why is Nick in the Hospital Wing?" she asked, her eyes narrowed.
"Haven't a clue," Sirius replied with a shrug.
"Any ideas?"
"He tripped, I heard," Peter volunteered.
"Down the flight of stairs by the fourth floor Arithmancy classes," Remus said.
"That third step has always been a bit wobbly, come to think of it," Sirius added.
"And he just happened to land on his face," Lily said flatly.
"We're wishing him a speedy recovery," Remus said.
"He's weighed heavily on our mind," Sirius added glibly. "Sure, our best mate just lost three family members, but spare a thought for poor Wright, seven years at Hogwarts and he still can't walk down a flight of stairs."
"Where's Potter?" Lily said, ignoring Sirius.
"Working through his grief with Danielle Fenwick," Sirius replied. "She's such a nice girl."
"You're all disgusting."
"I mean, I am," Sirius replied, "but that's an awful thing to say about Remus, Evans."
"Here's trouble," Peter warned.
"Evans?" James asked.
"You wish. McKinnon."
"I know one of you kicked Wright's arse," Marlene said accusingly, sitting down across the table from the four boys.
"We're the Marauders. We fuck and we fight," James replied.
"It's sort of what we do," Remus added.
"When we're not fucking, we're fighting," James said.
"When we're not fighting, we're fucking," Sirius volunteered
"Sometimes we're just fucking about," said Peter.
"Sometimes–" Remus began.
"There's no way you didn't rehearse that," Marlene said, trying in vain to conceal her grin.
"You won't tell Evans?" James asked.
"He was being a git," she replied. "Your secret is safe with me – this time."
"McKinnon, have I told you how intelligent and good looking you are lately?"
"Keep it in your pants, Potter."
"Hey."
"Hey."
"We keep on running into each other," said Lily.
"Small school," James replied quietly.
"Big castle," she quipped.
He shrugged.
"Potter, I…I'm sorry. About what happened. I hope things are okay."
"You've nothing to be sorry for, Evans," he replied. "Thanks though."
"Do you think they'll find who did it?"
"They have some leads. Don't know if it'll get anywhere."
"I hope so."
They stood there, awkwardly in the corridor, neither knowing quite what to say.
"Well, er…I have to drop these off to the library, so…"
"Oh," James said, looking at her stack of books. "Yeah, course."
"Well, see you in class," Lily replied, and turned to walk away.
"I wanted to see her, Evans," he called out, and she paused. "I wanted to watch my cousin put on the Sorting Hat, and to welcome her to Gryffindor, and…"
He trailed off, his hand halfway through his mop of hair.
In six years, she had never seen him look so vulnerable, and she couldn't help but feel that perhaps she was meeting him for the first time.
His eyes met hers for a moment longer, and then he turned and walked away.
A/N: Thanks for reading! Please review!
