much like they assumed of the Sectumsempra Curse. Mia, however, knew better, and
recalled Future Remus informing her that silencing Dolohov in the Department of
Mysteries—so that he could not cast verbally—had probably saved her own life; now, Mia
knew for certain that it had.
The funeral was a quiet event, nothing like Dorea's had been. There were too many
deaths to handle in such a short amount of time, not to mention that Sirius, Frank, and
Alice had started their Auror training.
Despite how much it hurt and how hard they all had cried, once each parent was in
the ground, the newly graduated Gryffindors made a silent promise to move forward. They
were at war; as horrible as it was, death was something they all needed to get used to.
"I'm ready. Let's go home."
"Master is home!"
As James exited the fireplace, he was subsequently attack-hugged by an overly
enthusiastic house-elf.
After the death of Charlus, Tilly became quite a bit more attached to James and
Mia—extremely protective and anxious anytime either of them left the manor. Mia was
initially angry at herself for allowing it, but she eventually conceded to James, who went
about setting out a large list of tasks for Tilly to keep her occupied. Boredom was a house-
elf's worst enemy. Tilly was having trouble not dwelling on the danger out in the Wizarding
world, and work seemed to ease her anxiety.
"Is dinner ready, Tilly?" James asked as they took seats in the large drawing room.
"We need to eat quickly so we can keep packing everything up."
"Tilly fixed Master's favourites. Steak and kidney pie and treacle tart. And Tilly made
roast chicken for Miss Lily, chocolate cake for Master Remus, lamb stew for Master Sirius,
and trifle for Mistress."
Mia frowned, ever concerned for Tilly's health and welfare. "You didn't have to do
all that."
James cleared his throat, silencing Mia's objections with a glare. "Of course she did.
And we're very happy that you've made us all such wonderful things, Tilly."