the_debt_of_time

"I, Sirius Black, bonded brother of Lily Evans, give my blessing for my sister to wed
into the House of Potter." Sirius kissed Lily's cheek before tying the black cord in his hand
around her wrist, securing it to James's.
"I, Mia Potter, bonded sister of James Potter, give my blessing for my brother to
bring this witch into the House of Potter." Mia placed a wet kiss on James's cheek and
laughed when he grimaced. She tied the red cord in her hand around his wrist and secured
the opposite end to Lily's.
Mia could barely pay attention to the words of the Ministry official as she stared at
the joyous expression on her brother's face. From time to time, she would look over
James's shoulder to catch Sirius winking at her. Every so often, however, Sirius would be
caught staring at the bride and groom just as intently, fingering the silver chain around his
neck like he used to do when he was anxious about something. Mia frowned at the sight,
but the words of the Ministry official pulled her out of her concentration.
"James and Lily, these cords are symbolic of the vows you will each take, tying you
to the same House and binding together your hearts, your families, and your magic. As
your hands have been bound together, so shall the rest of your lives be bound together.
Do you each come here this day of your own free will?"
"We do," the couple answered together.
"Do you swear upon your magic to be faithful partners throughout your lives?"
"We do."
"Do you swear upon your magic to establish between yourselves a lifelong
friendship?"
"We do."
"Do you swear upon your magic to love one another without reservation?"
"We do."
"Do you swear upon your magic to stand by one another, in sickness and health, in
plenty and in want, in times of joy and sorrow, in years of peace and in war?"
There was a pregnant pause as the reality of war settled upon the crowd, reminding
them of the severity of the time they lived in. James squeezed Lily's hand and her eyes
sparkled once more. "We do."
"Lily Evans," the Ministry official said with a smile. "Turn to your new Lord
Husband and make your vow."