the_debt_of_time

So caught up in their conversations, they all failed to notice the plates
disappearing—nor did they hear Professor Dumbledore's send off—but, suddenly, all the
students in the Great Hall were rising from the tables.
"All right, fifth year prefects," Lily spoke loudly without shouting. "Please escort
the first years to the common rooms. Make sure they all know the passwords and try not
to let any of them fall through the vanishing step. Sixth year prefects head out on rounds,
and―" Her gaze landed on Remus and Mia. "Seventh years just... try not to get into any
more trouble?"
Mia opened her mouth to object, but Lily was already turning away, followed by
James.
"Ouch," Remus said, wincing. "I'm going to assume that she was directing that
entirely to you."
"Shut it. Go on up to the tower and make sure Sirius and Peter don't get into
trouble. I'm going to talk to Lily."
"Good luck."
Lily and James walked to the front of the Great Hall where Professor McGonagall
was waiting for them, and Mia followed, lingering within earshot of their conversation—
waiting for Lily in order to apologise.
"Miss Evans, Mr Potter. I wanted to first congratulate you both on your new
position. I trust they will be treated with the utmost respect and seriousness."
Lily nodded firmly. "Yes, ma'am."
McGonagall turned to James, and her gaze briefly softened. "Potter, I was so sorry
to hear about your mother. She was a good witch. Please, pass along my condolences to
your father, if you would."
Mia watched as familiar grief flashed over James's features before he swallowed
hard and pulled in back in. She wondered if she wore the same expression. What Slytherin
there was in her—thanks to Dorea—wanted to hide that expression as it left her vulnerable
to onlookers, but there was something to be said about the way that same vulnerability
softened her brother. Lily's proximity to him was evidence enough of his change.
"Thank you, ma'am. Should I pass along your condolences to my sister and Sirius
as well?" James asked, letting a small smirk slip through and watching with interest as
McGonagall narrowed her gaze, her lips forming a tight line.