Living And Loving In Times Of War

Goldgrin

Rating: PG13
Genres: Drama, Romance
Relationships: Lily & James
Book: Lily & James, Books 1 - 5
Published: 09/09/2004
Last Updated: 25/11/2004
Status: paused

This is the sequel to You’re Such A Baby!, though it hasn’t got much similarities, besides the used characters. Lily and James are married and soon expecting a baby. But, with the still increasing threath of Voldemort and the Death Eaters, how will they fare?

Chapters

1. Wedding Disaster

2. Inferno

3. Unexpected Surprise

4. Christmas Shopping

5. A Meeting And Christmas

6. Authors Note: So Sorry!

7. Childbirth

1. Wedding Disaster

Here it is. The sequel to You’re Such A Baby. I hope you like it, though I suck at first chapters.

I’m not sure if there are any stories like this one, but I haven’t found one. If there are, please don’t be offended, I’m not copying anything.

BTW, I don’t own anything about Harry Potter and co. And now that’s been said. On with the story.

Living And Loving In Times Of War

Chapter 1: Wedding Disaster

---

It was a quiet but rather warm day in October, in a small town in Scotland. The trees that surrounded the village were colored in red and gold leaves, as was the ground. It was noon and the sun was shining her rays over the autumn world.

At the edge of the little village stood a building that wasn’t much more than a shed, though anyone who could look through the curtains, would see that the outside told nothing about the inside.

The inside of the shed was a lot more space then seemed possible. The walls looked like it was the edge of a thick forest with the red and gold colors that were outside. The ceiling wasn’t visible, and it looked like there wasn’t a roof on the shed. The floor was covered with flowers and leaves, with a path of dirt in the centre. There was a small chamber at one end of the room, and one very nervous young lady was waiting there, dressed in a fabulous white wedding gown. Waiting to be escorted by her father down the aisle.

Lily Evans was waiting untill the moment she would step into the other room, to become Mrs. James Potter.

If she would have been told three years ago that everything in her life would change so fast, but so fabulous, she would have thought the person mental. She was utterly happy with her life.

Sure, dark times were in the past, present and future, but no Death Eater or even Voldemort could do anything about the love she felt so deeply for the man that was waiting for her down the aisle.

Two years ago, both Lily and James had graduated from Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Both had been top students of their year, and were seeing each other for a little less then a schoolyear by then.

A sign was given, and Lily started to walk down the short aisle, on her fathers arm.

She looked at the people in the room, there were only a few. Just their close friends.

In front of Lily walked her best friend of nine years, Hallie Parker, as the bridesmaid. At the end of the aisle stood James, with his best friend, Sirius Black, next to him, as his Best Man. Albus Dumbledore, their former Headmaster and current friend, stood there too, leading the ceremony.

Then there were the others, who were currently all looking at Lily. Their former Professor McGonagall, Hagrid the half-giant, Remus Lupin, Peter Pettigrew, the Longbottoms, and two other members of the Order of the Phoenix.

The one Lily really missed now, was her mother, who had died a couple of years ago of cancer. James also had no relatives present, for they had all been murdered by Voldemort and his followers. But the sad thoughts, her nervousness, and her anxiety swiftly disappeared as she looked in the hazel eyes of her soon-to-be-husband.

They took eachothers hand and Professor Dumbledore started the ceremony.

Half an hour later they were all drinking punch, eating cake and chatting cheerfully.

Lily, who was talking with Hallie, was aproached by Alice Longbottom.

“Congratulations, Lily!” Alice wished her.

“Thank you. I was really nervous, but that disappeared as I was with James.” Lily smiled.

“I know. I felt exactly like that when I married Frank two years ago. But I was wondering, where is your sister Petunia?”

“I did invite her, but we’re not on the best of terms and I didn’t expect her to be here anyway.”

“Is it true that she’s pregnant?”

Lily nodded. “Yes, the baby’s due in June somewhere. But I doubt to hear from Petunia and Vernon when he arrives. They seem to despice the wizarding world.”

“Well, that’s their loss.” Hallie said, shrugging. “So, when can we expect a little one? Soon, I hope?”

Lily blushed. “We don’t know of course, but you’ll be the first to know. Trust me.” Lily smiled.

“The first to know what?” James asked as he joined his wife, encircling her waist with his arms.

“The first to know when you’re going to have a little James or Lily running around.” Alice said with a smile.

At that moment, the door burst open, and every eye in the room went to the open doorframe as twenty Death Eaters burst through it.

Immediately, curses started going back and forth. Though outnumbered, the member of the Order were holding their ground firmly.

And with Dumbledores help, who was concidered the most powerfull wizard alive at the moment, they were slowly pushing them back. But then, a tall, red-eyed wizard entered the room.

“Voldemort.” James growled, but had to dodge a spell immediately as the Dark Lord, how he was called by his followers, threw a curse at him.

“I’m afraid you’re not invited, Tom.” Dumbledore said calmly and the two powerfull wizards faced each other.

Voldemort slung a curse at the tall Headmaster, but the last shielded himself almost like it was habit.

As the two tall wizards got into a duel, the Order members and the Death Eaters continued their own.

Lily disabled one Death Eater with a well placed Stunning Spell, and then turned to help her husband, who was being attacked by three Death Eaters at a time.

Lily swiftly stunned one of them and then went to stand besides James to face the other two.

All around them, Death Eaters were falling, and after two hours of intense fighting, Voldemort stood alone.

“You’re lucky this time Dumbledore, but your luck won’t last!”

With that, Voldemort waved his wand and he, as well as the twenty unconscious, tied up, or petrified Death Eaters had vanished.

Lily looked around at the chaos that had been created. Pieces of cake were covering the walls, the chairs were almost all broken to splinters, and a part of the ceiling had come down.

All of the former partying people were covered with dust, sweat and even blood. Then Lily saw the body on the ground and tears welled up in her eyes as she saw the staring eyes of her friend, Thomas Blaze, blood forming on the floor beneath his head. And there, in the corner of the room lay the tall, slim form of her father.

She turned around and burried her head in James’ broad chest, feeling lost, confused, sad, angry, and utterly eshausted. Unable to look at the body’s of her father and of one of her best friends. At least she felt safe in James’ arms.

“How did they know we were here?” She heard Frank Longbottom asking.

“The information must have leaked out somehow.” Remus said. “This shouldn’t have happened...”

“It shouldn’t have, and I’ll do everything in my power to find out how Voldemort got this information. But for now, I think it better to leave this place and go home.” Dumbledore said calmly. “I’ll call a meeting in a day or two.”

They all nodded sadly, and one by one, they apparated away, after congratulating Lily and James again and wishing them happyness.

Finally, only Sirius, Hallie and professor Dumbledore were left.

“How about your honeymoon?” Hallie asked.

“We’ll just be staying home. It’s too dangerous going away right now.” James explained.

“Enough to do there, right mate?” Sirius said, wiggling his eyebrows.

“That’s none of your business, Black.” Hallie said, in a tone that she probably held for stern. “Now come on home. There’s enough for us to do there too.”

Sirius grinned and clapped James on the back. “Duty calls, so I guess I’ll see you at the meeting. Congratulations Prongs, Lily.”

“Have a good time, Lily, James.” Hallie said, and then the two Disapparated.

“You’ll inform us about the meeting, Albus?” Lily asked the Headmaster.

“Of course. Enjoy your time together.”

Lily made to Apparate, as James held her back.

“No, Lily, this has to be done properly.”

Just as Lily was about to ask what he meant, he lifted her in his arms and Apparated to the dark alley besides their home.

James walked with Lily in his arms to the door, unlocked it with his wand that was still in his hand, and stepped over the treshold.

“That’s how it’s supposed to be done.” James said, putting Lily down and leaning in to kiss her...

---

Well, that’s part one. I hope it’s not too horrible. It’s my first attempt at some action, so please be gentle ;)

Anyway, I hope it was okay, please R/R

2. Inferno

Living And Loving In Times Of War

Chapter 2: Inferno

---

With a high-pitched ringing, the alarm went off.

Slowly, Lily regained consciousness. The alarm went off again.

Feeling content in James’ arms, she didn’t want to get up. The alarm sounded again, and now James started to stir.

Lily sighed as she sat up and turned the alarm off.

Grumbling a bit, Lily stood up, but was suddenly overwhelmed with a nauseous feeling. She barely made it to the bathroom in time.

“Lily? Hunny, are you alright?” James asked, getting out of bed too.

“I’ll be fine love, I’ve – ” The rest her sentence was cut off by another wave of vomit.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, give me a couple of minutes and I’ll be fine.”

James then retreated to the kitchen and soon Lily heard the sound of plates and cutlery. After a little while, Lily smelled eggs being baked. Normally Lily loved baked eggs in the morning, but now she only felt more vomit coming up.

Half an hour later, Lily made her way downstairs, a bit more refreshed, but still feeling a bit nausea. She was wearing her working robes.

James, who had a day off today, and was only wearing a pair of pants he had quickly put on, asked: “Are you sure you don’t want to stay home?”

“Hmmm...” Lily leaned in and kissed James tenderly. “Yes. I’ve been away for a month now, ever since the wedding, and it isn’t fair to take more days of. I’ll be fine, don’t worry.”

James didn’t look satisfied, but let it rest. He had learned a long time ago that Lily could be very stubborn, and it was never a good thing to cross her.

Lily sat down and took the Daily Prophet. As she read the most important headlines, she took a bite from her egg, but found out that wasn’t such a good idea.

Another half hour later, Lily kissed James goodbye. “See you tonight, love.”

“Bye. Don’t work yourself too hard!” James called after her as she went to the alley besides their house to Apparate to the Ministry.

Lily worked at the Department of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes, in the Accidental Magic Reversal Squad. Like usual, it was crowded at the Apparition point and she quickly went to the elevator, greeting co-workers.

At the third level she got off the elevator and went to her office, finding a big stack of forms waiting for her.

Sighing, she sat down and set to work.

“Morning, Lily. How was your wedding?”

Lily looked up at her partner, Tim Rowtide, as he walked in, raising her eyebrows.

“Of course, stupid question!” Tim said as he sat down at his own desk. “I wouldn’t want Death Eaters to walk in on my wedding either. But how was it, besides that?”

“It was great! At least the Death Eaters had the decency to wait ‘till we were actually married.” Lily half-joked.

They both got back to work, as their superiour ran in.

“Evans... I mean Potter, Rowtide, emergency in Manchester! Another attack!”

Immediately, Lily and Tim got up and ran to the Apparition point, Apparating to Manchester.

They arrived at an enourmous fire. The fire was spread over two whole blocks, and several Muggles with burning clothes were rolling on the ground to extinguish the flames. The smell of burning wood, mingled with burning flesh hung in the air.

With a few wellplaced Extinguishing-charms, the nearby Muggles were rid of their flames.

Lily and Tim worked hard for two full hours, extinguishing the many magical fires. Occasionally coming across other pairs. Fire was all around them and smoke sometimes made it impossible to see. But the two knew what they were doing, as were the rest of the Squad. As more witches and wizards arrived, they managed to stop the flames from spreading.

The fire-brigade was trying their best too, but the magical fire wasn’t affected by their waterjets, and many firemen looked strange as suddenly, after trying their best, feeling like it was in vein, the flames were diminished and sometimes even vanished. Some others were placing wards to keep Muggles away.

As there were enough witches and wizards to keep the fire from spreading, and even slowly extinguishing it, Lily and Tim made their way closer to the flames, extinguishing as much fire as possible.

Suddenly, through the roaring of flames and over the sound of Muggles crying and yelling for their lost relatives and friends, Lily heard a sound that sounded a lot like a cry for help, coming from one of the houses. Without thinking, she ran forward, casting a Flame-Freezing Spell on herself.

“Lily! What the hell are you doing?!” Tim bellowed after her, trying to make himself heard over the roaring.

But Lily didn’t hear him, she had her full attention to the call for help, which was getting louder by the minute, but seemed to be getter weaker all the same. Lily was oblivious to the fact Tim had come after her.

Then, Lily reached the house from which the cry was heard. It was probably a small child. She blasted the door open with her wand and rushed inside. Blinded by smoke, she cast the spell to create a Bubble around her head, as to keep further smoke from entering her lungs.

She let gusts of wind come from her wand to see momentarily and she made her way through the house. The ceiling was creeking and as Lily reached the stairs, she saw they were only barely standing.

Light as the quick tred of a fox, she ran upstairs, the stairs breaking after her.

She reached the first floor. As she rushed through the landing, she heard an odd sound coming from besides her. Swiftly, she rolled forward, just in time to avoid being burned to a crisp by the burst of flames that came from a door. The Flame-Freezing Spell only worked untill a certain degree, and was slowly starting to wear off, as it was being attacked so insistantly.

“Where are you?” Lily called.

She heard the faint sound of a voice come from somewhere on the right. She blasted all the doors away in her way, finally reaching the right one.

As she blasted the door open, a large piece of ceiling came down. Showering Lily with burning splinters and pieces of plaster. Taking no notice to the small burns on her arms, Lily ran inside, to the corner in which the five-year-old was cowering.

Lily picked up the scared child and turned around, ready to go back, as suddenly, the floor disappeared, falling down to the main floor.

Lily looked around, put there were no other exits. Not even a window.

‘There’s no way I can jump over that hole...’ Lily thought. ‘Unless...’

Without thinking more, Lily conjured ropes to bind the five-year-old to her back. She then transformed into a slim vixen. The magical ropes shrinking with her to keep the petrified child on her back.

She backed into the far wall, then turned around and ran, to jump with grace over the hole seperating her from the hallway. Keeping running, she transfigured back to her normal form and reached the stairs.

There waited another obstacle, since there was no more stairs...

Thinking quickly, like she was used to, she conjured another rope and tied it to the most solid object there still was... one of the pillars that kept most of the ceiling still in its place. The rope almost immediately caught fire, but Lily was already climbing her way down as fast as possible.

Just before reaching the ground, the rope gave in and Lily fell about a foot, but landed as gracefull as was possible in the circumstances.

There she was awaited by Tim. The exchanged looks and made their way out of the burning house, reducing a rafter that was coming down to a bunch of splinters and finally reaching outside.

Meanwhile, Lily had the child in her arms again and they started their way to safe ground. Lily was feeling exhausted, but kept moving. She was glad to see the line of wizards that were still fighting the fire.

She handed the child to a Muggle woman who was rushing towards her, followed by a man, and as soon as the mother had gotten her daughter, Lily collapsed on the ground, passing out.

---

It took a lot of time, but I’m rather happy with the result. Please R/R

3. Unexpected Surprise

Living And Loving In Times Of War

Chapter 3: Unexpected Surprise

---

Lily slowly opened her eyes, blinked, blinked again, and the room started coming in focus.

‘It sure is very white here...’ Lily thought, before her thoughts were interupted.

“Lily! How are you feeling?”

Lily turned her head and sat up, smiling as she saw the worried and pale face of her husband.

“I feel fine. What happened? I remember getting that girl out of that house...”

“From what they told me,” James said, obviously feeling better knowing his wife wasn’t in pain. “you saved that girl from the house, gave it to the mother, and passed out. The Healer told me you were just worn out and had a fair amount of smoke in your lungs.”

“So this is St. Mungo’s, right?” Lily asked. She had never been to the wizarding hospital before.

“Yes.” James said. “Tim Rowtide brought you here immediately and then warned me. He’s having something to drink right now, but he’ll probably be back in a minute.”

“So I haven’t been out for too long then?”

“Just an hour or three. But you sure know how to scare me to hell and back again.”

Though he was probably rather serious, Lily couldn’t help but snort at the comment.

James flashed her a fake-hurt look, which only made Lily laugh harder.

“I’m sorry,” She hickuped, “But you can be priceless you know.”

“And proud of it.” James said, grinning.

“I sure married the King Of Pranks!” Lily continued.

“The King Of Pranks? You wouldn’t be talking about me now would you?” A very familiar voice came from the door.

“Hi, Sirius. And no, I was referring to my husband.” Lily said. “But if he’s the king, you sure are the prince.”

“See Padfoot, I always told you, I was the best, but what are you doing here?” James said, slapping his mate on the back.

“Of course she would say that! She’s your wife! She’s biased!” Sirius said. “And I heard at the Ministry you were here, Lily, so I wanted to make sure you’re alright.”

“Well, I’m fine, I just took too much on my plate without eating.”

Both James and Sirius raised their eyebrows.

“I mean, I did too much without actually eating something today.”

At that moment, the Healer entered.

“I see you’re awake again, mrs Potter? I figured you would wake up soon.”

“So she’s perfectly fine?” James asked.

“Yes, though when we examined you, we noticed something – ”

“Is it something serious? She’s not going to die is she?” James interupted.

“Of course not, Prongs!” Sirius said. “He said she was fine, remember?”

The Healer cleared his throath rather loudly.

“They’re sorry, Healer. What were you saying?” Lily said, giving the two men a look.

“Well, mrs Potter, mr Potter, you’re going to be parents.”

Lily was too shocked to say anything and she noticed James was too.

Sirius, however, grinned. “How far is the baby?”

“About a month. It’s due somewhere in July. You could experience morning-sickness, but that normal. If you have any other questions, we’ve got some excelent midwitches. And as I said, you’re in full health and free to go.” With that, the Healer left them alone.

Lily was still a bit shocked, but a smile slowly spread across James’ features.

“Me... A father...” James said. “Do you want it?” He added, not too sure Lily wanted to have a baby.

A smile came upon Lily’s face then too. “Of course! I just didn’t expect it. That explains this morning too.”

Suddenly, Lily was being hugged by James.

As they let go again, Lily said: “But now I’d like to get out of here. I’ll just have to change and could we go get something to eat then, I’m starved!”

Sirius pulled James with him. “Come-on, loverboy, let the wife change in peace.”

James gave Lily a kiss. “We’ll see you in the hall.”

---

That evening, Lily and James were relaxing together on the couch in front of the fire. They had sent messages to all of their friends about the upcoming baby.

“You sure you’ll go to work tomorrow?” James asked.

“Of course I will, the baby won’t be here untill another eight months and I won’t be sitting around all the time. It’s not necessary either!”

“I know. This parent thing is just a bit new to me. I’ve never seen a baby born before.”

“Same here. But I’m sure everything will be fine.” Lily said, leaning into her husbands chest. And, by the way, I never thanked you.”

“For what, love?”

“Teaching me to become an Animagus, that saved my life today I guess.”

“It did?!”

“Yes. As a fox I was able to jump over a large hole in the floor. So thanks.”

James kissed the top of Lily’s head. “It’s usefull for the strangest things. But I was thinking, what should we name the baby?”

“I don’t know. We don’t even know the gender yet and I don’t think I want to know the gender before birth either. You?”

James shook his head. “No. But we could think of two names. One for a boy and one for a girl.”

They brainstormed about all different sorts of names, but the search of a nice name resulted in a kind of contest making up the strangest name possible.

“You know.” Lily said after a couple of hours. “We still haven’t got a name.”

“I know.” James said. “But we still have plenty of time. We could even get a book with names in it. We should probably get some sleep now.”

“I know, but I don’t wanna get up.” Lily sighed.

“No problem.” With that, James picked Lily up off the couch and lifted her upstairs.

---

Did you like it? Not much happens, and it’s kind of happy and fluffy. Please tell me what you think.

4. Christmas Shopping

Living And Loving In Times Of War

Chapter 4: Christmas Shopping

---

Time went by, and soon Lily began to show her pregnancy, though she liked to cover it up with loose sweaters. And how much James kept asking her to take things easy, she wouldn’t hear of it. Like she said to James one morning:

“Even if I grow fat as a troll, I can’t sit around doing nothing! I promiss you I’ll be carefull, but untill July at least, I’ll keep working.”

In the end, James was forced to agree, since Lily was just as stubborn as a mule.

The holidays rolled around, and both Lily and James took time off to go Christmas shopping.

The 1st of December, they got up early, ready for a day of shopping. They flooed to the Leaky Cauldron, since Lily was restricted of Apparating with the baby coming.

James went first and kept Lily from falling at the other end.

“’Morning, Mr and Mrs Potter.” Tom greeted from behind the counter.

“Good morning, Tom. Everything fine, I hope?” James said cheerful.

“It’s all going fine, though all those attacks aren’t doing anyone any good. Could I offer you something to drink?”

“No, thanks, Tom.” Lily said. “Perhaps when we come back.”

They went to the side-chamber and James tapped the right bricks to gain them entrance to Diagon Alley.

“You know.” Lily said as they walked into the already crowded street. “I still can’t get enough of people calling me Mrs Potter.”

“Hmmm...” James said, kissing Lily on her head. “Me neither.”

Lily wrapped her arm around James and he wrapped his arm around her shoulders as they walked, looking for promising shops.

“Here,” James said as they passed a joke shop. “We’ll surely find something for Sirius in here.”

Three hours later, James was bearing a kinds of packages, as he insisted on bearing everything.

“Now all that’s left is a present for Hallie.” Lily said as they came out of Floorish and Blotts.

“What are you planning on getting her?” James asked.

“I’m not too sure. She’s absolutely crazy about dogs, but I already got her a book about it, I’ve even gotten her a miniature set of retrievers that look like they’re alive.”

“Then give her a puppy!” James said like it was obvious.

“How? I can’t just giftwrap it!”

“And then they say you’re the one with the brains.” James said teasingly. “We’re organizing Christmas this year, aren’t we? Then we can just keep it with us untill Christmas, and then give it to her when she’s at our house.”

Lily smiled and kisses James. “Thanks.” She said as she lead the way to the animal shop.

Half an hour later, they came back outside again, Lily carrying a basket with a little german shepherd in it.

“Let’s go eat something.” Lily said as they passed a pleasant looking restaurant.

As James ordered their meals, Lily looked out of the window. It had a nice view of that part of Diagon Alley, and Gringotts Bank on the other side of the street.

They were halfway through their lunch as Lily caught something from the corner of her eye. She quickly looked out of the window and nearly choked on her sandwich.

“James! Look!”

In front of Gringotts stood at least a dozen Death Eaters, guarding the doors, sending curses at anyone who dared coming near.

“They’re robbing Gringotts? What are they thinking?!” James asked incredulously.

“I’ve no idea, but we can’t let them do this!”

With that, Lily jumped up and ran to the door. “Lily!” James yelled, to no avail.

Within seconds, she had taken cover behind a large container that was only a little away from the door of the restaurant.

James rushed to the door too, but only opened it a bit. He could see Lily now again.

“Lily!” James called.

Lily, just pulling her head back to avoid a curse, turned to James. “Yeah?”

“Are you trying to give me a heart attack? Stupefy!” James said the last part to a Death Eater that was trying to get to a point in which he could see Lily.

“Don’t worry, Love, I’m perfectly fine and don’t intent to – Petrificus Totalus! Stupefy! Detentio! Detentio! – get hurt.” Lily answered, taking out two Death Eaters and binding them.

Lily and James soon got help from other Order members and Aurors and they managed to let the Death Eaters retreat, but they were nowhere near defeating them.

In the mean time, Lily and James had taken a different position, shoving the container to the middle of the street.

Just as the Light side was gaining some ground, the doors of Gringotts burst open, and there stood none other than Voldemort.

With a powerfull beam of light, two Aurors were smashed against the wall. From all directions came spells and curses towards Voldemort, but they all deflected and crushed into walls and other witches and wizards.

James just managed to avoid his own Stupefy.

Then, as if he had had enough of it, Voldemort waved his wand, slamming everything within 10 yards away, including Lily and James behind their container.

They had no time to think as the wall neared them and Lily did the first thing that entered her mind. She send a powerfull gust of wind towards James, sending James backwards, and herself in the oposite direction.

Almost immediately, Lily was back on her feet, hearing the container crushing into the wall of a house.

Before she could recover, a green light speeded towards her. She stood there, frozen, thinking of all the things she would miss, thinking of the unborn life inside of her.

But then, she felt as though someone pulled hard on her neck and within a second, she was next to her husband again.

“Thank Merlin for Accio.” James said and all Lily could do was nod.

---

Another one up. Hope it’s okay. Some of you might think it’s not like Lily to react like that, but I like to think Harry got his rushing in to things from Lily. Besides, Lily’s pregnant, and hormones can do strange things ;)

5. A Meeting And Christmas

Living And Loving In Times Of War

Chapter 5: A Meeting And Christmas

---

As Lily and James looked out of the, now glassless, window in the door, they saw how Voldemort and his Death Eaters, after a final attack from Voldemort, Apparated out of Diagon Alley.

“What did they come for anyway? What could be important enough for Voldemort to come himself?” Lily asked.

“Beats me.” James said. “Maybe Dumbledore knows more. He’ll probably arrange a meeting within the next few days.”

“More than likely. Shall we go home then?”

James picked up all of the packages and Lily carried the basket with the pup.

---

The next morning, Lily woke up by an owl tapping on their bedroom window.

Usually it would have been Lily to open the window, for James was an incurable bedhead, but since she had these morning-sicknesses, James had been a lot more easy going out of bed in the morning, and, though grumpily, he got up to open the window, muttering something about inconsiderate people that would send an owl at this hour.

The owl swooped inside, dropped the letter on their bed and flew off again. James closed the window and got back under the warm covers as Lily opened the letter.

“It’s from Dumbledore. Another meating. I wonder why he didn’t contact us the usual way.” Lily said, referring to the cards that came with the Chocolate Frogs.

“Doesn’t it say in the letter?”

“Not really. He does hint about a leak that could be in the Order.”

“A leak? Like a spy?!”

“I suppose. But I couldn’t imagine anyone in the Order to be dirty.” Lily said pensively.

“It could be Snivellus.” James said, a foul look on his face as he thought about the slimy git. “He was a Slytherin.”

“Come on, James. Just because he was a Slytherin doesn’t mean he’s the leak. I admit, he’s an incredible asshole sometimes, but that doesn’t mean he’s on the wrong side.”

“Like usual, you’re probably right, but I don’t like him.”

A couple of hours later, Lily and James Apparated to Hogsmeade. They walked to Hogwarts and soon entered the almost deserted castle. Only a few of the students were here for the Christmas holidays, and further only the Professors.

As they came to the Gargoyle, they gave the password, climbed the stairs and entered the Headmasters office where most of the Order was already present. Dumbledore was still looking for a different Headquarters, but untill now, hadn’t any luck with that one yet.

“Good morning, Mr and Mrs Potter.” Dumbledore greeted. “Now that you’re here, we can get started...”

Lily and James sat down next to each other, as Dumbledore took his seat behind his desk.

“I’m glad you could all come today,” Dumbledore started. “And you all probably know what the reason to this meating is.”

Dumbledore paused for a moment as they all nodded.

“A few of you have been present during the attack on Gringotts yesterday and – ”

“What did he take?” Sirius asked impatiently and Remus, who sat besides him, poked him in the side.

“He didn’t succeed at Gringotts yesterday, Mr Black. I do, however, know what his intention was and was able to keep it out of his way.”

All heads looked eagerly in Dumbledores direction at this.

Dumbledore stood up and walked to one of the many book-cases in his office and pulled out a large tome. He laid it on his desk and turned the pages untill he was halfway into the book.

“As you all know, Tom always tries to find new ways to ensure his immortality. This book contains many theories about it, though I’m positive most of the theories are as flawless as Mr Blacks patience.”

James, Remus and Peter chuckled at this and Sirius shot them a dirty look.

“One theorie, however, has a chance of succeeding, though nobody has ever tried it. The way to do it is just too... unpleasant.”

They looked at each other, all thinking the same thing: What could be horrifying enough that nobody ever tried to gain immortality?

“And, unless someone has something else to say, this meeting is finished and I wish you all a Merry Christmas.”

They all wished the others the same and they left the office, though Lily motioned James to hang back a bit. As the others were away, Lily aproached the Headmaster.

“Sir, do you have any idea about who could be the spy for Voldemort?”

Dumbledore looked deeply into Lily’s eyes, and then shook his head.

“I’m afraid not. I’ve been very carefull about the people I admitted to the Order. It’ll be hard to find him or her since that person got into the Order without suspicion.”

Lily sighed. “Well, Merry Christmas, Sir.”

“Merry Christmas.” James said too.

“A very Merry Christmas, Lily, James. And please, call me Albus, I’m not your Headmaster anymore.”

“We’ll try to remember.” James said, smiling, as he wrapped his arm around Lily.

---

Soon, Christmas Eve arrived and Lily and James found themselves curled up on the couch together, Lily in James’ lap. His hands were resting on Lily’s stomach and Lily had her fingers entwined with his. Lily had just given the puppy some food and was now enjoying herself in her husbands arms.

“You know, we still haven’t figured out a name for the baby yet.” James murmurred into Lily’s hair.

“I know. And we haven’t informed Petunia about the baby either.”

“Let’s not talk about them now, my little vixen.” James’ low voice rumbled in her ear as he brushed it with his lips and nibbled softly.

Lily untangled one of her hands and lifted it to play with his hair. “I think I could handle that. How about Remy for a girl?” She said as she turned around so she was lying on top of James.

“I’m sure Remus would like that.” James said, smiling as he encircled her waist once more.

“Oh, right, forgot about that. Your turn.”

“Let me think...” James said thoughtfull as he captured her lips in a kiss, but pulled back much too soon to Lily’s liking. “Alex for a boy?”

“It’s a nice name, but I don’t think it would suit our baby.”

“Perhaps you’re right.” James said, kissing Lily again. “You’re up.”

“Hmmm, how about... you kiss me like that again and we’ll see about that name again in the morning?”

---

The following morning, Lily felt a wet, somewhat raspy, tongue licking her hand.

Not really wanting to get up, she slowly opened her eyes to find a little puppy staring up at her with pleading eyes.

“What’s the matter little one?” Lily asked softly as not to wake James.

The magical pup ran to the backdoor and looked back at Lily.

Lily was about to reluctantly get up as she noticed her wand on the table next to the magically expanded couch she and James were on.

She picked it up and, through the open kitchen door, opened the door to her backyard, letting the pup out. Then, to keep the wind out, she closed the kitchen door almost completely, just enough for the pup to get in again.

Satisfied, she put her head on James’ chest and drifted back to sleep again.

When Lily woke up again, she noticed it was eleven thirty already.

“Merlin! They’ll be here within half an hour!”

James started to stir beneath her. “What’s the matter, Vixen?” He asked sleepily.

“We’ll have guests in half an hour and I don’t think they’ll expect us to be on the couch under a summoned blanket wearing not much more than out birthsuits.”

“I see your point.”

They withdrew from each other and, after picking up their clothes and shrinking the couch back to its normal state, went upstairs to shower.

Half an hour later, Lily and James were showered and clothed, and Lily just put the pup in their bedroom as she heard Remus arriving.

As she got downstairs, Remus just put some packages under the Christmas Tree.

“Hi, Remus. Merry Christmas!” Lily greeted, hugging the werewolf.

“Merry Christmas, Lily.” Remus said.

The next to arrive was Peter and only moments after that came Sirius and Hallie.

After all greetings, they sat around the fireplace.

“So,” Sirius said, “Who’s gonna open the first package?”

“Remus is closest to the tree, so I think he should randomly pick packages.” Hallie said and they all agreed to that.

“But, I want to hand out the first package.” Lily said, standing up.

Everyone, except James, raised their eyebrows at this, but Lily got up and walked up the stairs to their bedroom and, with a simple charm, wrapped the pup in a large box.

She lifted it downstairs and handed it to Hallie.

“This is our present for you, we hope you like it.”

Curiously, Hallie quickly unwrapped the box, opened it and squeeled in delight.

“Oh Lily! You’re the best! He’s adorable!” Hallie picked the pup out of the box.

“Don’t thank me alone.” Lily laughed. “Without James you wouldn’t have him.”

“Thanks James! I love dogs!”

Sirius’ face turned beet-red after those last three words.

“Is there something we need to know, dear old Padfoot?” Remus asked, grinning and Sirius turned even more red, Hallie joining him.

“Know what?” Peter asked. “Am I missing something here?”

“It’s about time the two of you made it official!” James said. “You’ve been fooling around long enough!”

Peter, catching on, grinned too. “You’ll have to watch out, mate. She’s got enough other wanting guys waiting.”

“I don’t think it is the blokes he’s got to watch out for.” Remus said, feigning seriousness.

“What do you mean?” Sirius asked. “It’s not like she likes girls!”

“Of course I’m not a lezbo!” Hallie said.

“Yeah, you really should watch your back. You’ll no longer be the only dog in the house, mate.” James said, grinning.

“How’re you going to name the pup? By the way, it’s a German Shepherd, but a magical one. We’re not to sure about it’s powers as of yet, but you’ll probably find out soon enough.”

“His name is Procyon.” Hallie said confidentally.

“Pro-what?” Sirius asked.

“Procyon.” Lily said. “Haven’t you payed attention in Astronomy?”

“Uh – no!” Sirius said like it was obvious.

“Well, you of all people should know. Procyon is, after the sun, the eight most bright star in the sky, and belongs to the constellation Canis Minor, the counter part of Canis Mayor, from which Sirius is the alpha star.”

James grinned. “Aren’t you happy, Sirius? You’re still the Big Dog.”

Sirius poked James in the side, while Peter burst out laughing and Remus snorted.

“That’s more than I needed to know.” Remus said.

“So, Remus, how about the next package.” Lily said, breaking off the subject, but inwardly chuckling. Hallie threw her a gratefull look.

The rest of the unpacking went rather calmly, with occasional teasing from James, Remus and Peter.

All too soon, the day ended and they had to say goodbye after a superb dinner.

“I’m glad they finally are together.” Lily said as she got into bed.

“Yeah, ‘bout time someone took some control over the dog.” James said, grinning as Lily slapped him lightly.

“You just make sure you know you’re all mine.” Lily said seductively.

---

It’s a lot of fluff, but I’m kind of glad about it.

BTW Sorry it took so long for me to update, but I had a really hectic week with school and helping with out family-day.

Anyway, I hope you like it.

6. Authors Note: So Sorry!

Authors Note:

I just wanted to tell I’m putting this story on hold for a while. I will be continuing it, but I’m not too sure when again.

I’m really sorry about it, but I’ve somehow gotten very sick and behind on my schoolwork. :(

I’ll continue as soon as possible, so please don’t be mad at me.

Goldgrin

7. Childbirth

Living And Loving In Times Of War

Chapter 6: Childbirth

---

The following months went by rather calmly, at least, as calm as it can get in the middle of a war.

The spy still wasn’t found, though Dumbledore seamed positive it was someone close to Lily and James. This lead to much suspicion as they didn’t know who to trust anymore. They couldn’t believe any of their friends to turn to Voldemort, but as more information got to Voldemort, they had to face the truth.

In the mean time, Lily’s stomach was getting larger and larger, much to the owners chagrin, as she was having increasingly more difficulty getting around. James was spending ever more time ensuring Lily she wasn’t ugly and dealing with her mood-swings. He’d learned well to carefully choose his words, as the disaster was still fresh on his mind.

It had been a Friday in March and James had convinced Lily to stay home for a day. He himself had to go to work as it was very hectic at work. He was an Auror, partnered with Sirius. He’d had a disturbing nightmare that seemed very real and that’s why he woke up rather worried. In his dream Sirius had been thrown into Azkaban for a crime he didn’t commit, though he couldn’t remember anymore what the reason was exactly.

As he walked down to the kitchen he heard a sob coming from the bathroom.

Worried, he ran to the bathroom and found Lily sitting in a corner, eyes tearstreaked, red and puffy. He rushed to her side.

“Lily, love, what’s wrong?” He asked, wiping a tear away with his thumb, but Lily pulled her face away from his hand. Utterly comfused, he asked. “Lily? What did I do? Please tell me...”

“You think I’m ugly, don’t you?” She sobbed.

“What? No! Why would you think that?”

“Then why don’t you touch me anymore like you used to? Why do you ignore me? You think I’m fat, don’t you?!” Lily cried.

“Lily, hunny, you’re not fat! You’re just as gorgeous as ever!”

“Liar! I’m a whale!”

Surprisingly fast for a pregnant woman, Lily got up and locked herself into the bedroom.

After he’d recovered from the shock, James followed her and tried to open the door.

“Lily! Please let me in!”

“No, leave me alone!” Came Lily’s muffled voice from the bedroom.

“Please let me talk to you, open this door so I can see you!”

“No, I’m ugly!”

“Alohomora.” Muttered James, but still the door remained locked.

“You’re not ugly Lily, but please let me in, I’m getting later for work!” Immediately after he said it, he knew it was a big, big mistake to say that...

“Then go! Just leave!”

“I’m sorry, Lily! I didn’t mean to say that! I would never leave you when you’re miserable! I love you!”

A faint click was audible and James pushed the door open.

“How can you love me when I’m so ugly and fat...?”

“I love every part of you, Vixen. And I don’t care how you look. You’re still as beautiful as ever! How could you be ugly bearing a product of out love? You’re gorgeous, believe me!”

“Do you really mean that?” Lily asked turning to him.

“Of course, Vixen!” James said then, wrapping Lily into a hug. Letting her cry on his shoulder.

Eventually, James had decided to take a day off to spend with Lily.

Another month passed and Dumbledore had send another message to Lily and James, telling them to come to Hogwarts. Curious, the two made their way to Hogwarts and when they arrived there, only Frank and Alice Longbottom were present. Alice, like Lily, was six months pregnant by now and the two woman talked animatedly with each other, while James and Frank had a conversation about work. Frank was partnered with Remus as Alice, who was his usual partner wasn’t allowed to do so anymore, as he magic was off because of her baby. They quieted when Dumbledore arrived.

“Good morning.” Dumbledore greeted. “You’re probably wanting to know why I called you here, and why not the rest of the Order.”

“Has it got something to do with the spy?” Frank asked.

“Yes and no. The information I’m going to tell you is already partially known to Voldemort, but for him to know the entirety could be very well the downfall of the Light side. Yesterday night, I had a conversation with Sybill Trelawney, concerning a possible position at Hogwarts as Divination teacher...”

“Trelawney? Is she a descendant to the famous Cassandra Trelawney?” Lily asked.

“Yes, she’s her great-great-granddaughter. Just when I had decided not to hire her, she made an actual Prophesy, concerning Voldemort.”

Dumbledore got up and picked up his Pensieve from a closet. He put his wand to his temple and pulled white string from his head, letting it swirl into the Pensieve. He whirled the substance in the Pensieve with his wand and then a misty figure with a kind of bat-like appearance emerged.

“The One With The Power To Vanquish The Dark Lord Approaches... Born To Those Who Have Thrice Defied Him, Born As The Seventh Month Dies... And The Dark Lord Will Mark Him As An Equal, But He Will Have Power The Dark Lord Knows Not... And Either Must Die At The Hand Of The Other For Neither Can Live While The Other Survives...The One With The Power To Vanquish The Dark Lord Will Be Born As The Seventh Month Dies....”

Nobody spoke after the voice died down.

“So this means...?” James said.

“This means that at the end of July, a child will be born who will have the power to defeat Voldemort. And his of her parents have escaped Voldemort three times. I’m positive it’s one of your children that will be the one mentioned in the Prophesy. The four of you have fought him at your wedding, Lily, James, and also at Diagon Alley, with the attack of Gringotts, you four were there. You, Frank and Alice, have also encountered him once in a fight as Aurors. And Lily, James, you will surely remember the happenings of your graduation.”

Lily nodded. Not unlike their wedding, Voldemort had managed to get into Hogwarts to attack the graduating students...

“I must urge you not to tell anyone outside of this room, for it is indeed very important information. Not even your closest friends.”

The four impending parents nodded solemnly.

---

Four three months later, Lily found herself in the Hogwarts infirmary, almost crumpling James’ hand in her own as let out a cry of pain, pushing hard.

“I can see the head.” Poppy Pomfrey said triumphantly. “The babe’s got it’s fathers hair! Push, Lily, just one more time!”

“It’s almost done, Vixen!” James said with a smile. “Just push, love.”

“Easy for you to say!” Lily said through gritted teeth, before summoning her strenght again for the final push.

Soon a clear cry resounded through the infirmary.

“It’s a boy.” Madam Pomfrey announced.

She then proceeded to show James how to tie off the birthcord with his wand.

Carefully, James took his son from the nurse. He handed the boy who was wrapped in a blanket to the tired mother.

“Look, he’s beautiful!” He said proud. “Our son is beautiful!”

“He’s got your hair.” Lily whispered. The boy silently looked up at his parents, after the first cry he’d been perfectly quiet.

“And he’s got your gorgeous eyes.” James added.

“He’s perfect.”

Without them noticing, the nurse had left them alone for a while.

---

Half an hour later, James stepped out of the infirmary, a bundle of blankets in his arms. He was immediately swarmed by his friends.

“And?” Sirius asked.

“The baby’s perfect!” James said.

“Is it a girl?” Hallie asked.

“It’s a boy!” James said proudly, lowering the blanket a bit to show his son.

After everyone had gotten a good look at the boy, everyone looked expectantly at the new father.

James did as if he didn’t notice, untill he said: “Oh! You probably wanna know his name!”

Dumbledore, who stood in the back, chuckled. Once a prankster, always a prankster.

“Of course not.” Remus said mock-serious. “We’re waiting for the little fellow to sprout antlers and a fox’ tail!”

Everyone laughed at that.

“Well, if you don’t want to know, I’ll just go back!” James said, half turning around.

“Just tell it already!” Sirius said.

“Because you ask so nicely then. His name is going to be Harry James Potter!”

------

I’m back again, though not I’ll certainly won’t be updating very frequently, as school’s hell this year.

Please tell me what you think in the form of leaving a review.