AU.

This story sees James and Lily live, gets Dumbledore aware of the Horcruxes earlier and follows the war-torn lives of Sirius, Remus, Peter and their friend Rose Shakespeare (who is an original character and central to the story.) The six friends have just graduated and have just joined the Order of the Phoenix. The Order shows them the importance of their loyalties, love and the determination needed to fight Voldemorte and his increasingly dangerous army.

Chapter 1: Balloons [View Online] [Printer Friendly Version of This Chapter] Soare you ever planning on telling us what this is about? Rose asked, as James handed her a pink balloon to blow up, his living room floor covered in packets of balloons and brightly coloured streamers. Not yet. He shook his head before sucking in a big breath and putting his mouth to the balloon, he blew hard and the balloon grew bigger and bigger. He grinned triumphantly and let it go, letting out a loud Ahhh! in surprise as it shot away from him across the room with a Pfffft. Sirius and Rose burst out laughing and James scowled. Whats the point of blowing them up if they dont stay like it? Rose laughed ever harder, James you idiot, you have to tie up the end of the balloon to keep the air in! You have to fix it on wizard balloons too so I dont know why youre surprised. James nodded sheepishly, Rightso how do I tie it up? Rose looked at him with exasperation and handed him the balloon hed given her just moments ago, Blow this one up, then keep hold of it at the ends and give it to me and Ill show you. Sirius watched James with a grin, and James had to turn away to stop himself laughing. Once he had blown it up he handed it to Rose who pinched the ends together and stretched them, tying them in a knot around her finger before slipping her finger free. The knot stayed and the balloon didnt shoot off again. Nevertheless Sirius squealed Oh no! in a high pitched voice and ran off. Rose burst out laughing again and James said, Shut up Sirius. You havent exactly been helpful. Sirius shrugged and winked at Rose, I still dont see why we arent just using magic. Because I want this to be really special, and it will mean a lot to Lily if we do it the muggle way. James said, picking up another balloon to blow up.

Rose watched him curiously for a while then said, Youre going to propose arent you? James let go of the balloon again and it hit Sirius in the face, but he barely noticed as he turned to Rose with wide eyes, Howd you know? Rose squealed, James! and leapt on him, hugging him delightedly. Sirius soon swept over and hugged James fiercely too. Congratulations mate! Sirius grinned as Rose extracted herself out of James arms, her face glowing with happiness. Hey, dont jinx me, she might not say yes! James said worriedly, but he was smiling broadly nonetheless. Rose tutted, Dont be silly James, of course she will. James looked at her hopefully, You definitely think so? Rose nodded and grinned again, resisting from hugging him for a second time. She didnt know how she was going to keep it secret from Lily; she felt she was going to burst with excitement. James seemed to reading her mind. You cant tell Lily! I want it to be a surprise. He said, picking up another balloon. Of course I wontI want her to be just as surprised as you do. Rose said and James beamed at her. Sirius picked up a balloon and stretched so it flew across and hit James in the face. Ow! James rubbed his forehead and looked up to see Sirius leaning against the balloon covered sofa, eyes wide with mock innocence. You know, James said slowly, youve just given me a great idea Padfoot Sirius looked at him curiously, you can stay here and blow up the balloons whilst Rose comes with me to get the last couple of things. What?! No! Sirius glared at James and Rose laughed again. But youre having so much fun with the balloons Sirius, its only fair. She said with a grin and Sirius turned his glare to her. Right, well thats sorted, come on Rose. James held his arm out for Rose and she took it, shooting James a quick wink. Fine, off you go Prongs, Ill just wait for Lily to get home and then Ill propose myself. Sirius said haughtily, picking up a balloon and tapping it with his wand so it swelled and sealed itself within seconds. James froze, before he burst out laughing, Yeah right Padfoot

Sirius grinned in return, Seriously mate, cant we just use magic? Lily will never know and itll get the job done ten times quicker. James paused and looked at Rose who shrugged. I dont supposed shell mind muchyeah go on thenwe might as well do the streamers this way too. Sirius and Rose nodded in agreement and the three of them had the balloons and streamers flowing decoratively around the living room within minutes. Rose looked on once it was finished and said, It needs something else. James looked worried, What? What else? I tried to make it look like that birthday party we threw for you in the common room in seventh yearshe liked that Rose continued to look around the room, ignoring the two boys as they exchanged clueless glances and Sirius pretended to yawn. Flowers. She eventually said. Why flowers? Sirius groaned. Because Lily likes flowers! Roses are her favourite. James said quickly, and Rose nodded approvingly before flourishing her wand so a stream of red roses flew out of the end and attached themselves prettily to the streamers. She waved it again and white roses flew out to attach themselves to the ends of the ballooned that were bunched in the corners of the ceiling. The two boys looked on appreciatively. Nice. Sirius said, and Rose shot him a smile. Ill do it for your birthday if you like? she said coyly and Sirius rolled his eyes, Ha ha. His voice was laced with sarcasm but his eyes sparkled mischeviously. James gazed around the room, and imagined for what felt like the millionth time what it would be like to get down on one knee and ask Lily to be his wife. His throat constricted tightly and he coughed, Its perfect Rose, thanks. Rose and Sirius exchanged a knowing glance and left the room, giving James some timetime to realize that he would soon be an engaged man.

Chapter 2: Chapter 2: The Ring [View Online] [Printer Friendly Version of This Chapter]

James scrambled around his bedroom desperately, murmuring something under his breath. He almost jumped out of his skin when Sirius drawled, What are you doing? James leapt around and glared at him, Cant you knock? he said irritably. Sirius merely raised an eyebrow and didnt move from his spot in the doorway.

James turned back to his bedside table and raked through the drawers, chucking photos, pieces of parchment and odd socks on the floor. Sirius continued watching before he noticed something glinting by the bed, he leant over and picked it up, staring at it in wonder as he realised it was James engagement ring for Lily. It was beautiful, though he would never admit any such thing out loud. It was silver, with a gold band round it, and a sparkling diamond at the centre. I think I have what youre looking for. He said, watching James rake his hand through his already messy hair. I doubt that Padfoot James said tetchily, turning to glare at his best friend before noticing the ring in his hand. Did you nick that?! he shouted, snatching it out of Sirius hands furiously. No I didnt you bloody idiot, I found it lying on the floor right there, Sirius pointed at the spot hed seen it shimmering, didnt you just see me bend down and get it? James had the decency to look a little sheepish, Sorry mate. I was just panickingthought Id lost it. Sirius gave him a wolfish grin, Sure thats all youre worrying about? James looked up and nodded, before looking at his feet and shaking his head. What if she says No? his voice was low and meek and Sirius had never seen his friend look so worried before. His face was pale and strained and his hazel eyes were dim beneath his glasses. Sirius stared at him, not in the slightest bit able to understand why James would think that. Hed never seen a couple so right for each other inwell, Sirius reasoned, I dont think Ive ever seen two people so perfect for each other. Even if it had taken Lily six years to realise it too. Realising he hadnt given James a response he clasped his best friends shoulder firmly, James, theres no way shed ever say no James nodded, looking a bit better. Especially since Rose said Lily would be up for itand we all know that woman is never wrong. Sirius joked and James grinned up at him. I heard that. Rose appeared behind Sirius, a small smile playing on her lips. Sirius winked at James and turned round, flinging an arm around Roses shoulders and grinning down at her. Never said it was a bad thing, love. I should think not. If it wasnt for me youd never have finished Hogwarts with any NEWTS. Rose replied, slipping her own arm around Sirius waist comfortably. Obviously nothow could I ever have reached Auror Training without someone who wanted to work with Magical Creatures teaching me Sirius said sarcastically, and Rose elbowed him in the ribs. As Sirius gripped his side and moaned dramatically Rose leant down and kissed James on the cheek.

Dont worry Jam-Pot. She smiled at him, and he grinned at the use of the nickname she had given him when they were only 9, See you tonight. She turned to leave and Sirius put out an arm to her, May I accompany you downstairs my dear? Rose grinned, As I clearly dont know where Im going, you know, only having been here about a hundred times before. She ducked under his arm and laughed as he tried to grab hold of her but missed. Bye Sirius! he called out in a high-pitch voiced, before resuming his normal voice and saying Goodbye Rose. Itll be great to see you later toopick you up at 8. James and Sirius could hear Rose laughing before she apparated back to her own house. Still nervous? Sirius asked, and James shook his head. Never! he cried gallantly, beaming as they headed down the stairs for some food before having to get ready themselves. An hour later, James was standing in front of his full length mirror, pulling at his tie nervously, and growling in frustration as it wound itself into a knot. Bugger. He said, staring angrily at his reflection, as if it could change in the blink of an eye to show him what he wanted to see. And that wasnt his wan complexion, messy hair and stupid, knotted tie. There was a knock at his bedroom door and he said, Come in. Sirius opened the door and James was frustrated at how effortlessly cool he looked. He was wearing a simple pair of black trousers and a white shirt, sleeves rolled up and collar undone. James scowled at him. Why the hell are you wearing a tie? Sirius asked, not noticing James scowl deepen as he stepped into the room and checked himself out in the mirror. Youre not getting married today you know. James looked at his feet, Lily likes ties. Sirius almost laughed, but he could see James was on edge enough. Shed also want you to be comfortable mate. Take the tie off and undo your collar...and be thankful shes into muggle clothing. James sucked in a long breath and nodded, his palms were sweaty, his heartbeat was increasing and he hadnt even seen Lily yet. He wondered now whether or not it was a bad idea to ask her in front of all of their friends. Cheer up Prongs, Moony and Wormtail are going to be here in a bit. Sirius patted James shoulder and gave him some time alone, hoping to meet Remus and Peter in the hall. When he reached the bottom of the stairs, he heard a familiar giggle and peered over the stair banister.

He leant further forward until he saw a flash of Roses face before it was covered by someone elses broad back. Frank, Rose giggled again, and Sirius grimaced, come on, stop it, we have to let James and Sirius know were here. I dont want to stop, you look so beautiful. Frank replied, and Rose laughed again and pushed him off her. Sirius jogged down the steps and used the pause in conversation to intrude. Hey Rose, youre early. Rose stepped out from behind Frank and Sirius eyes took in her appearance straightaway. She did look beautiful. She was wearing a chiffon, dark cerulean sleeveless dress that skimmed her figure perfectly, and her hair was pinned half up by a silver rustic hair band. Oh I know, Im sorry, Im just so excited. Hows James doing? Rose stepped forward and peered up the stairs, and Sirius noticed the silver bangles around her wrist and upper arm that sparkled rather alluringly. Hes fine. Nice to see you Frank, howve you been? Sirius finally acknowledged Frank Longbottom, Roses boyfriend of the past few months, who shook his hand with an easy grin. Good thanks, busy though. How about you? Started Auror training yet? He asked, leaning against the stairs casually. Not yet, me and James are starting on the February term. Sirius replied, trying not to watch as Rose slipped back to Franks side and smiled up at him. There was a sudden pop! into the silence which let Sirius know of the arrival of Remus and Peter. Marlene! Rose gasped out, before rushing forward to hug Remus girlfriend happily. Sirius stared around at the group in the hallway, Remus and Peter stood beaming at him over Roses shoulder as she enveloped them both in hugs. Marlene McKinnon waved cheerfully, and the two Prewitt brothers strode forward and shook his hand. Sirius, mate, how are you? Gideon asked, patting Sirius shoulder amiably, as Fabian greeted Frank. Good, great, yeah. How are you guys doing? I didnt think you were going to make it? Sirius asked, before giving Remus a one-armed hug as he joined their conversation. Great. Knackered though, to be honest. Mollys just had these two twins Fred and George, and they are terrors...we managed to make our babysitting excuses and escape for this though. Fabian said as he and Frank joined the conversation too. Realising everyone was congregating at the bottom of the stairs, Rose said, Why dont we all go into the kitchen and get some drinks? Sirius caught her eyes and nodded, catching on to her idea to keep everyone away from the decorated

lounge until James came down. Everyone followed her in, and Sirius watched her as she chatted animatedly to Marlene and Peter. She caught his eye and grinned, Want to do some of your famous cocktails Mr Black? Sirius grinned back at her, Only if my lovely assistant will join me. Rose raised an eyebrow, Assistant? Pfft. Youd be useless without me. Wouldnt we all. James suddenly drawled from the doorway and as cheers and laughter echoed around the room, he seemed to suddenly draw confidence from the noise and puffed up to his full height. He hugged Remus and Peter first, then shook hands with the others, giving Marlene a quick kiss on the cheek before helping Rose unload the liquor cabinet. What times Lily coming? he asked quietly as she set the various bottles out on the table in a neat line. In half an hour, shall we have these drinks then run through the plan with everyone? she replied, smiling as Sirius joined them. Not whispering about me I hope? Why would we want to talk about you? James asked, looking mock confused. Sirius ignored him and poured some Firewhisky into a shaker. Who wants to try a famous Sirius Black Firewhisky cocktail then? Sirius asked, winking at Rose, as the others called out in response. Chapter 3: Chapter 3: Lily [View Online] [Printer Friendly Version of This Chapter] Lily got to Roses apartment and found, rather confusingly, that no-one was there. She wandered into the kitchen and saw a note pinned on to the side.

Lily!

Ive got a present for you on the bedwear it tonight! Im at James by the way, you should come by when youre all dressed and readywe decided on an impromptu fancy dinner party to celebrate us all getting the jobs sorted at last!

(Yes I did have to force them into it!)

Love, Rose x

Lily chuckled and headed into Roses bedroom and gasped as she saw the dark green dress on the bed. She picked it up and grinned, running a hand over the ruffled silk delightedly. It was the same dress shed been eyeing up for weeks. She let out a little whoop before feeling suddenly guilt. Why on earth did Rose get me this? It was really expensive! Silly thing, Ill pay her back as soon as I can!

Nevertheless, Lily pulled off her work uniform and changed into the gown, turning around to check her reflection in the mirror. Rose had pinned another note on it.

Oh, theres something else for you in the bathroom too! Love you!

Lily felt like a child at Christmas. She skipped into the bathroom and found a beautiful gold hair pin and she laughed with delight when the moment she touched it; it hovered up and pinned her hair up beautifully in a French twist.

She did a little jig on the spot before applying her make up and vowing to find something really special for Rose in return.

She was done fifteen minutes later and she checked herself in the mirror one last time before apparating into James hallway. She immediately headed for the living room and was a little surprised at finding the door shut. She pushed it open hesitantly, wondering why it was so quiet when a loud chorus of SURPRISE! almost scared her out of her wits.

She looked around at the beautifully decorated room and the smiling faces looking back at her, before James swept her up in his arms, kissing her cheek and murmuring You look beautiful into her ear. He placed her down in the centre of the room and she looked at him curiously, What on earth is going on?

James beamed and lowered himself slowly, and Lilys heart constricted painfully when she realised he was on one knee.

Lilian Evans Ive loved you from the age of 11 and always known you were the only one for menow you finally feel the same way too I want it to be forever. Lily, will you be my

Yes! Lily burst out before James could even finish, and he stood up, sweeping her into another kiss and hug whilst their friends cheered raucously. She heard Sirius wolf-whistle and caught Roses watery eyes as James pushed the ring on her finger gently, grinning at her so affectionately she thought her hear might burst with delight.

So Mrs Potterare you enjoying yourself? Sirius sidled up to Lily and handed her a flute of champagne, an easy grin on his handsome face.

Im not Mrs Potter yet! she shot back, unable to keep the massive grin off her face. Sirius chuckled, You would be if Prongs had his way.

Lily blushed and took a gulp of her drink, glancing around the room and seeing her fianc in conversation with Frank, Gideon and Fabian. She looked around again and saw Remus, Marlene and Rose laughing together. Peter was nowhere to be seen.

"Where's Peter gone?" she asked, frowning as she gazed around the room. Sirius looked around, completely unconcerned and shrugged, "He's probably gone and locked himself in the bathroom." He grinned, "We had some drinks before you came and Pete had one too many Firewhiskey's as usual." Lily rolled her eyes, "When exactly are you lot going to grow up? You can't drink each into oblivion forever!"

Nonsense Lil, were in our prime now! I plan to be drinking Sirius into oblivion for a long time still.

Lily and Sirius turned around to face a grinning Rose, who was clutching three glasses of champagne precariously. Sirius took one off her and flung an arm around her waist, Thats my girl.

Ha. You wish. Rose shot back, blushing slightly when she realised what shed said. She handed Lily the other glass of champagne and ignored Sirius curious gaze.

Congratulations Lily, may you be as happy as James is for the rest of your life. She grinned, and Lily smiled and clinked her glass with Roses.

Sirius burst out laughing, I dont think anyone could be as happy as James is. He nodded his head over to where his best mate was grinning and gesticulating wildly, looking like hed been hit with various cheering charms at once.

Lily rolled her eyes again but couldnt suppress the smile working its way onto her face.

Rose grinned, Go sort him out Tiger-Lily. She gave Lily a hug and pushed her in James direction with a wink. Lily giggled and strode over to her fianc, who noticed her approach and bounded over to her exuberantly, like an excited puppy, leaving the Prewitt twins and Frank looking completely bewildered and amused.

A moment of silence engulfed Sirius and Rose and the latter took a gulp of her drink.

Enjoying yourself? Sirius wanted to slap himself the moment the words left his mouth; he and Rose had been friends for years and he still came out with something as lame as thathe glanced over at her and she grinned back, as if reading his mind.

Its lovely isnt it? her voice was laced with sarcasm.

Sirius chuckled and nudged her playfully, Alright, it was a lame lineits worked before though. He winked at her.

Well theres always some sweet witch who takes pity on you.

Well I dont think its pity that keeps their attention. He rose his eyebrows suggestively.

Rose rose her eyebrows, "I don't want to know about your sex life thanks." Not jealous are you? he had meant it as a joke, but he couldnt ignore the fact that he did want her to be jealous. Just like he couldnt ignore the fact that since shed gotten together with Frank Longbottom hed begun to really hate the bloke.

Rose snorted, Not particularly. Who knows what sort of diseases youre carrying these days.

Oi! Thats a bit harshI always practice safe sex. Dont want any little Sirius running around yet. Sirius replied with another cheeky grin.

Yet?! Merlin, we never want little Sirius running around! What would the world come to? Rose shot back teasingly, taking another sip of her drink and watching James and Lily cuddle and whisper to one another fondly.

Well as long as there are little Roses running around Im sure itll be fine.

Rose turned to Sirius and couldn't help but giggle as he grinned back at her widely, his dark eyes wide with mock-innocence. I think we should toast to it in fact- a toast to a world where little Sirius are forever bossed around by little Roses he clinked his glass with hers cheerfully.

And a toast to a world where the little Roses rule and have the little Sirius as their rightful slaves. Rose added, a sly grin creeping up her face.

Sirius grinned, Slaves huh? He leaned down and locked his gaze on hers, putting a firm hand on her lower back; all sorts of delightful mental images running through his mind. What kind of slave?

Roses breath hitched and she was both thankful and frustrated when Frank appeared behind Sirius shoulder. Whats this about slaves?

Sirius let go of Rose and shot around to face Frank as if he'd been burnt. "Just a joke." he said shortly, suppressing the temptation to tell the grinning, brown-haired bloke to bugger off. Rose, meanwhile, was brushing her dress down and feeling a little jittery. Something about the way Sirius had looked at her had opened up a well of butterflies in her stomach. She chanced a quick glance at him and immediately wished she hadnt: he was gazing at her intently and she felt her stomach churn and her throat constrict tightly. She turned away and murmured Im going to get another drink. before walking towards the drinks table stiffly, ignoring Franks bemused smile and Sirius searching gaze.