The next few days felt like months.
When they arrived back at the Potter's home, James immediately walked into his father's study and began writing to relatives of what had happened. Harry remained in the large living room and took a moment to admire how well decorated it was.
Beautiful velvet furniture had been placed carefully around the fireplace; Harry could imagine his grandparents sitting side by side on the couch, waving in guests as they entered through the green flames and offering them tea from ornate china. Harry stared blankly at the mahogany coffee table in front of the couch, where a white teapot with gold trim sat with a cup on either side. There was still tea in the cups, but cold now.
The room looked almost exactly like how the Potters had left it, moments before they had gone to answer the front door. Mrs. Potter's cardigan still hung over the side of the armchair. Mr. Potter's reading glasses were sitting on top of the Daily Prophet. The maroon curtains were still open, yet to be drawn for the evening. The view of the Potter's property was also beautiful. Snow had fallen a few days before, and the hills outside were a neat white. Except for front garden.
Harry moved away from the large window and walked into the entrance hall. When they had first arrived at the house, ministry workers had still been at the scene. Only Remus and Harry had seen them, which was probably for the better. Sirius and James had decided to leave directly for St. Mungo's, and had asked the other two boys to take their things to James's house for the holidays. When Remus and Harry got there, there was still evidence of the attack.
Blood was smeared not only on the hardwood floor of the Potter's entrance hall, but all throughout the snow in the front garden. Foot prints and imprints of fallen bodies had left holes in the previously untouched snowy landscape. The front door had also been blasted off its hinges and remained broken on the floor until ministry workers eventually repaired it. Many other items, including a precious vase from Romania, had also been broken in the attack.
Now, as Harry scanned the room, he saw no evidence of any wrong doing at all. He could sense it, however. Like a ghost, the grand entrance hall would never have the same warmth again. The whole home felt haunted by the events the night before.
A sharp tapping suddenly began echoing through the silent home. Harry returned to the living room to find Remus letting in an owl, the Daily Prophet in it's claw. Remus quickly paid the owl, who took off once more. He unfolded the newspaper slowly, and immediately let out a frustrated sigh.
'POTTERS MURDERED: HE WHO MUST NOT BE NAMED SUSPECTED'
The title blared across the front page, a photo of Mr. and Mrs. Potter from a few years before was in the center of the page. They both looked nervous, their eyes darted from Harry to the corner of the page, and then back at Harry. The photo was captioned, "Mr. Charles Theodore Potter and his wife, Mary Harrietta Potter, were discovered in their home yesterday evening, killed by what is suspected to be dark magic; with not even Pureblood families safe, what can be expected by the Wizarding Community? More on Page 3."
"Don't let James see this," Remus muttered, folding the newspaper back up. "Not yet anyways, he's not ready to read his parent's death being told by the Prophet…"
"He's going to find out," Harry sighed. "All of his relatives are going to read it, if they haven't already. Many of them are probably going to come here before he's even able to owl them."
Remus groaned.
"They better not, I hope they know better not to visit the place where his parents were murdered. As soon as he's done sending letters, we're going to go stay elsewhere. I don't think it's healthy for him to be living here."
Luckily, over the next few days the group were met by few visitors. A representative from the Ministry came to reinspect the home one last time for any additional evidence, though he assured them that it was all formalities and there wouldn't be anything left to find. He also explained that the Ministry had taken the liberty of enhancing the protective wards around the home, and asked James if he would like Aurors stationed outside of his home. James declined.
Despite the pressure and strain James was under, he seemed outwardly rather logical and levelheaded. He approached everything with a cold, robotic system, copying letter after letter to relatives, contacting funeral homes and churches nearby. Numerous times Remus offered to help, and every time James said he could handle it.
Sirius was not handling things as well. After returning from the hospital, he descended the stairs only once, and as soon as he caught sight of the front door, slightly crooked on its hinges, and the unfinished teacups he immediately turned around and went back to his room. A day later, the pair heard shouting upstairs, and when asked what was wrong, Sirius admitted that he had just called for one of the house elves only to remember that they too had been killed in the attack. Harry hadn't realized the Potter's owned house elves, though as a wealthy pureblood family it didn't surprise him, and from the anguished look on his face, Harry was sure that Sirius considered the elves equal members of the family.
"James doesn't know," Sirius choked out. "He probably hasn't even realized it yet, one of the ministry workers pulled me aside and told me they had been out in the snow with them…"
Tears began to leak out of the corner of his eyes, and he quickly returned to his room once more. Remus went to the study to let James know, though he visibly dragged his feet the whole walk down the stairs and around the corner.
Harry tried his best to not to be a burden to Remus who was already trying his best to help his two other grieving friends. As James continued to make funeral arrangements (including for the three house elves who had been killed, which resulted in many loud arguments via the floo network with the funeral directors who wanted them buried in a different cemeteries for deceased pets), Harry assisted Remus in cleaning up the house, though it was already admittedly quite spotless. They washed out the tea cups and the tea pot that had left rings on the squat coffee table. They also washed the rest of the dishes and threw out the food the house elves had been busy preparing that had now gone bad.
"If you want some time on your own, I understand." Remus said as they scrubbed pots and pans together.
"No, it's ok. I would actually rather have company." Harry responded, rinsing off another plate.
"I know this must be hard for you though, they were your relatives as well. Even if you hadn't met them." Remus paused.
"Did you know this was going to happen?" he asked hesitantly.
Harry shook his head.
"Of course not, how could I just let something like this happen?"
"Sorry, that's not what I meant to imply. I just was thinking that if you were from the future, and knew that you would never meet your grandparents, that maybe you knew about how they died."
The rest of the cleaning was done in somber silence.
o0o0o0o0o
On the fifth day following the Potter's murder, the four boys left the house in black formal robes and cloaks. A dark ministry car was sitting in front of the home, and after a man in a black uniform with a silver 'M' badge had opened the car door for them and closed it behind them, they drove off slowly into town. Before long, the driver stopped the car and let them out in front of an old stone church. The steeple towered above them as they approached the building. It's grey stones scraped against the equally grey sky as if they were one entity. Harry noted a second car outside the church: it was black as well, but had silver writing on the side that read: Burbanks & Lane: Funeral Service Since 1602.
"Let's go," James mumbled, and began climbing the steps into the aged chapel. The other three boys followed close behind.
Upon entering the church, the group were immediately met by the large crowd of guests. Relative after relative approached James and offered their tear-filled condolences. James nodded and muttered thanks to each of them, but he avoided eye contact.
"Hello, James," a familiar voice sounded from behind the group. Professor Dumbledore and McGonogall stood side by side in black robes, though Dumbledore also sported a deep purple pointed hat.
"I would tell you I am sorry for your loss, however I assume that is mostly what everyone else has said already." Dumbledore said as peered down his half-moon spectacles. "I hope you would not mind if I spoke during the ceremony, as your parents were both good friends of mine and it would mean a great deal to me personally."
"Of course, Professor." James said evenly. Dumbledore nodded before walking into the main hall with Professor McGonogall by his side.
"Can you help me with these?" Remus said, handing Harry a thick pile of bulletins. Together, they began distributing them to the guests who had already arrived, and then took to standing by the entrance to give them to the newcomers. Many brought various bouquets of flowers, which Remus accepted graciously and set aside.
"We're starting now," Sirius said gruffly. "We're all sitting in the front. Have either of you seen Peter yet?"
Harry and Remus both shook their heads. Suddenly, the door opened again, and in stepped Lily wearing black robes and a bright green necklace.
"I'm so sorry, am I late? I got lost and couldn't find the church."
"No, we were only just about to start." Remus said with a sad smile, offering her a bulletin.
"Lily?" James said.
The group turned to see James at the door that led to the main hall. Lily immediately walked up to James as fast she could and threw her arms around him. James held her tightly and buried his face into her beautiful red hair.
"I'm so sorry James, I'm so sorry." Lily whispered, stroking his hair and he began to cry. His shoulders shook with emotion as she continued to murmur soothing words into his ear.
"Maria's on her way," Lily said, looking over at Sirius. "She only just got James's owl this morning, but she told me she would be coming as soon as possible."
Sirius nodded.
"You guys can go in, we'll be in in a minute." Lily said calmly, leading James to a nearby bench where they huddled together.
Harry, Remus, and Sirius all took a seat in the very front row of the church. The room, unlike the grey world outside, was well lit and bright. Hundreds of flowers lined the walls on the floor, giving life to such a sad event. The stained glass ceiling and windows shown despite the absence of sun outside.
In the very center of the room on a slightly raised carpeted platform were three coffins. Two were much larger than third, which was wider than it was long. Each had a bouquet of flowers placed simply and elegantly on the top. In front of the coffins were three paintings of each member of the family. The first was of a grinning Mr. Potter, then the second was of kind-looking Mrs. Potter, and the third and final one was of three house elves with large blue eyes, all waving and grinning with their arms around each other.
The room quieted down as James and Lily walked down the center aisle together and took a seat next to the rest of the Gryffindors. A pastor followed behind them, the chapel erupting in beautiful music as he walked in. Harry spotted in the far left corner instruments being played by no one, and a squat man waving his wand much like a musical conductor. The music was somber, but warm, almost like the feeling of nostalgia.
Once the pastor reached the front of the room, he took to the center podium that held two candles on either side, engraved to look like phoenixes bursting into flames.
"My dear friends, brothers and sisters," he began. "Today, we are gathered to celebrate the life and mourn the death of five wonderful individuals. Charles Theodore Potter, Mary Harrietta Potter, Elzy of the Potter Family, Lula of the Potter Family, and Quill of the Potter Family.
"Each contributed to society in a way unique from anyone else. Mr. Charles Potter worked as an Auror, where he rose to the top of his field. He was an excellent duelist, and helped to train many entering Aurors. Charles was an avid reader, writer, and explorer, and this was clearly reflected in his many published books from his travels and adventures. I have had the enjoyment of reading quite a few of them myself, though I will return to those stories in a few moments. First, I want to speak shortly on another remarkable person.
"Mrs. Mary Potter was a wonderful healer who helped thousands of witches and wizards alike for many, many years. She was particularly well known for her inextinguishable kindness. She was a volunteer for most of her life, working with organizations to protect and save magical creatures. It was here that she adopted three bright house elves.
"Elzy, Lula, and Quill had all been saved from particularly abusive homes by one of the organizations that Mary worked for. She couldn't resist taking all three home with her as members of their family. They were as diligent, hard working, and caring as Mrs. Potter herself.
"James, Charles and Mary's son, has asked that all five be buried together in side by side graves. He said that family was the most important thing, and keeping those we love close even after they have passed is vital. He has also asked that at this time we have a moment of reflection on our own lives and families, so that perhaps after leaving this ceremony today we can all find some sunshine in this rain and mend broken bonds with those who matter the most."
The pastor bowed his head, and all in the room did the same. Harry glimpsed Lily reaching out and squeezing James's hand. James reached to his right, and took Sirius's hand in his. Sirius took Remus's, and Remus took Harry's. Together, in a chain, they bowed their heads and held on tightly.
"We will now here from Albus Dumbledore, a family friend."
The pastor stepped down from the podium and Dumbledore walked to the front and took his place.
"Thank you, everyone who came today. It would have meant so very much to Charles and Mary to know that James had so many wonderful friends and family who would come in his hour of need.
"I knew all five of the individuals who now lay peacefully behind me. I met Charles some number of years ago when he was only just beginning his career, and likewise, I first met Mary when she was just a budding healer. I had never been so lucky to meet such warm, welcoming people as the Potters. When I found an article I couldn't quite wrap my mind around on my own, I knew that Charles would be sitting in his study excitedly and Mary would be ready with other sources on the topic, and of course Elzy, Lula, and Quill would have a steady stream of tea and biscuits for us to enjoy.
"The Potters were one of the few couples who I could sincerely say took life and led it to the fullest they possibly could. They helped so many others in need, not distinguishing between muggle and wizard, human and elf.
"And though two great people have left this world, they have left behind a wonderful, intelligent young man. James," Dumbledore spoke, turning so that he was looking directly at him.
"You are an extraordinarily brave young man. And your parents were also extraordinarily brave. I know the world can only expect great things from you. And you as well, Mr. Black. Some may not know that the Potters had actually taken a young man, Sirius Black, into their home. They considered him their own son. I ask that you all keep both James and Sirius in your thoughts and offer them your support where you can.
"May you also not forget the exceptional individuals behind me. Do not let the bright candle of their giving hearts burn out now that they are no longer present to tend to it. Do what you can to keep that candle lit. Give help to those who need it. Be kind to one another. And do your best to distinguish what is right from what is easy. By doing this, we will reflect the lives that were lost only a few short days ago, and, in turn, keep the fire going."
Dumbledore bowed his head for a moment, before returning to his seat. The pastor returned to the center podium.
"As I mentioned before, Mr. Charles Potter wrote many books on his travels all over the world. One such book, he discusses his travels with Albus and how they came across a gorgeous, scarlet bird that is now known as Fawkes the Phoenix. Charles reflected on greatly on its amazing ability to erupt in flames on its Burning Day and then to be reborn from its ashes. I would now like to read a short except from Mr. Potter's own writing.
"Charles said: 'It is amazing that the phoenix has somehow transcended one of the most defiant rules of our world: nothing can bring back the dead. And yet, these incredible creatures rise after their deaths. However, the more I think about it, the more I realize that it is quite possible for anyone to break this rule. If one keeps the ideas and spirit of those who have passed alive, then they can never truly leave us.'
"I hope that you all keep these ideas in your thoughts over the next few days and help us all be metaphorically reborn from the ashes of these tragic deaths. May you all go in peace."
The church was once more filled with music. Everyone slowly stood as the coffins began to levitate. The guests filed out into the graveyard, following the slow moving coffins. No one spoke.
After reaching the top of a small hill, the coffins were slowly lowered into their respective graves. The soft, nostalgic music continued to sing around them. Dirt was carefully piled on top of the coffins, and many turned to head back towards the church to talk quietly and find comfort in each other. Harry glanced back as he walked away with Remus and Lily to see only James and Sirius, their arms around each other's shoulders, left standing at the top of the hill.
o0o0o0o
REVIEW REPLIES:
omg: wow, you're incredibly rude. I don't really appreciate that.
LilyEvans2510: Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed reading the past chapter, though I of course can't reveal anything about the future quite just yet :P I hope you continue to read and enjoy!
Deant33: Thank you, this actually meant a lot to hear. I hope you continue to like the story and it heads in a good direction.
Mrs. Moony: haha! I can't believe you read it all at once! Well, I'm glad you enjoyed it :)
A special thank you also to BlueStuff123 and Live Long and Love Books.
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