Archive of Our Own

Lily often snuck out of the castle to go to the city, today was no different. She told everyone she was getting a nap before the Potter's arrived. She then climbed down from her balcony. Years ago she had requested a vine plant right beside it and nobody thought anything of it. It was the perfect escape.

She had a few pairs of clothes from the city she kept under her bed when she snuck out. She had changed, slid down the vines, and gone through her secret passage in the gardens through the large bushes that surrounded the yard of the castle and feet away from the gates. The gates were always locked, so she had hidden a cut in the bars when the fence was closest to the bushes. This ensured that no one else would know.

Today the market was open so she strolled down there in her disguise. Today she had on a long brown skirt, an old sweater, and her favourite stolen dark lace up boots from a garbage can. They were in amazing condition when she found them, not so much anymore though.

The city wasn't all that big and it was slightly run down and very old, lots of people loved the place though. Including Lily. They had markets and so many old stores and her favourite bookshop.

The bookshop was run by an elderly man that had to have been there forever, she was certain he knew she was the princess but was keeping quiet for her.

The bell chimed when she walked in. The store was empty today. "Lily hello!"

"Hi Mr. Oscar! Anything new?"

"Not much, new books are still on their way, got the parchment today that they were running behind. Still think they need better transportation than horses."

"Very much so. I wouldn't mind reading the flower guide again for something quick, waiting for the new books."

"Very sorry dear, but someone actually took that out today already today."

"Oh. That's surprising."

"Yes, very few people take it out."

"Alright well I'll have to find something else."

Lily found another one of her favourite books and said goodbye to Mr. Oscar. She then headed to her favourite place to read. It was an old abandoned home near the castle but still in the city.

The small house had part of the roof missing on the left side in an almost door shape and had a small platform coming out from there. Lily liked to think that someone got mad and kicked the door completely out of the frame and hit the balcony with it in frustration. That's why there was a square missing.

She usually used the side of the house and climbed the bricks sticking out up to the platform. Lily would sit and watch the sun go down while she read.

She sighed. Sitting on the platform in the middle of the day wasn't as fun. Then she heard noise below.

This house was abandoned. Nobody should be here. Then she heard someone climbing up. She backed away from that side of the platform as far as she could without falling. Getting ready to jump if she had to. She saw brown curls slowly moving up.

Then the most beautiful girl Lily had ever seen climbed up and looked straight at her. Lily's face must have been the color of her ginger hair.

The girl had brown curls, dark skin, and soft brown eyes. She wore a white puffy dress shirt, a long green skirt similar to Lily's, and sandals. The color happened to be one of Lily’s favorites.

"Gosh! I didn't know anyone else came here," the girl said smiling.

"Me neither. I usually watch the sunsets but I'm on a time limit today," Lily replied.

"Aw that stinks. I'm Mary by the way," Mary said, the smile never fading.

"Lily," she said, returning the smile.

Mary's eyes went wide. "Like the princess? You look a lot like her."

Shit. The pretty girl was making her spill everything. Lily wanted to tell her everything.

"Oh yeah we just have the same name, it's a crazy coincidence."

Lily had thought that changing her clothes and changing her makeup would make her look different but Mary almost saw through it. Then she saw the book Mary happened to be carrying. The flower guide.

“So that’s who has it,” she said, gesturing to the book in Mary’s hand.

“Oh, yeah. The flower guide. You go to Mr. Oliver’s as well?”

“Yes. Actually I was going to borrow it today because the new shipment is running late but someone had taken it.”

“Well you've found it now haven’t you?”

“Yes, I think I have. I didn't know it was such a popular book,” Lily said through laughter.

“Always a good read. I took it out for the same reason as you. Did he complain about horses too?”

“Hm let me think, he might have mentioned it. Possibly,” she said now smiling.

The pair were laughing when Lily realized what time it was. She didn't want to upset Mary but she also didn't want anyone to know she’d been gone.

"Uh, nice to meet you Mary but I think I should be going now. Maybe we'll see eachother again sometime."

"How about we meet here in three days? Watch the sunset with me Lily."

"Yes! Sounds amazing! I really best be off now though."

"Alright, maybe I can walk you home?"

"No! Uh sorry not today. Maybe later,” she said, making her way to the makeshift brick ladder.

"Sure Lily," Mary giggled above while she climbed down the bricks. The sound of those giggles were heavenly.

"Bye Mary! Three days!"

"Bye Lils! I'll be here!"

Lily quickly made her way back towards the fence cutout. Lils. She already had a nickname. Three days couldn't come sooner. Mary was stunning.

What was she talking about? She couldn't like a city girl. She was supposed to meet the brat James soon, and unfortunately be married to him.

She and Mary would just have to be secret friends. As much as she was starting to like Mary.

"Lily, please get ready! The prince is arriving soon!"

"Yes mother!"

Lily rolled her eyes. As much as it was nice getting dressed up once in a while it got boring and slightly annoying after the many years of maintaining the appearance.

She still couldn't get her mind off Mary. Their meetup was in two days. Those hazel eyes ruled her dreams. She needed to focus.

Meet James. You can't marry the peasant girl, even if she likes you. You're going to be a queen.

Sliding on the sleek dark blue dress that her mother requested she wear. Lily didn't like the color on her if she was honest. She preferred green but her mother said "Prince James's favourite colour is blue," so she just had to wear it.

Lily then finished getting ready and headed downstairs where her parents awaited her on their thrones. Sometimes it got lonely having no siblings but her parents found fit they would only need one heir after them.

Sometimes that really upset Lily but she knew they wanted the best for her, her parents were very supportive of everything she did.

"Come Lily, they'll be here soon. The head knight must be letting them in at the moment."

"Alright. It was only a thought but what if I didn't marry a prince?"

The silence was petrifying.

"We would be alright with that. But she would have to be from another kingdom, and a good one. We love you whoever you choose but we just think that James would be a good fit for you and best for the kingdom," The king replied.

"Yes, of course. The kingdom will always come first. Thank you for your support."

"We'll love you either way Lily my dear," The queen smiled warmly at her.

"Ah Princess Lily! There you are! Sir, M'Lady," James's aggravating voice broke into the room, bowing to her parents and walking over to the smaller throne where she was seated.

"For you," He held out a lily flower. How ironic. Something about James just annoyed her, but he seemed friendly.

"Thank you," She said, nodding her head.

The King and Queen of the Potter Kingdom then walked in.

"King and Queen Evans," James's father nodded.

"We are very happy you've invited us," James's mother said.

"You're welcome. It is a pleasure to have you. Lily, how about you show James around the castle while we speak?"

"Yes mother. Follow me James."

"Alright!"

The pair walked down the grand hallway that branched off of the main throne room.

"Just so you know, I'm not going to marry you," she started.

"Really? Because I'm pretty sure our parents say we are."

"You don't sound very happy about it either."

"I'm not. Also that whole show I put on back there wasn't fake, I was honestly just trying to be friendly. It's not your fault we have to get married."

"Thanks. It's not your fault either."

"Yeah the thing is I'm actually seeing someone back home, I love them a lot and from a kingdom, but my parents just don't like them."

"Wow she must be lucky," Lily said laughing and rolling her eyes.

James laughed but then went quiet, "I know somebody dating me! And it's different than that, there is no she. My parents don't like the kingdom and I happen to like him."

James added emphasis on the him.

"So they don't care if it's another prince, they just don't like where he's from?"

"Exactly. The best part is my best friend who happens to be his older brother is also from there."

Lily sort of felt bad for him now. As much as he was a nuisance he also cared deeply about the people he loved.

"I'm in the same situation. I haven't told anybody this but I trust you to not spill. Alright?"

"You have my word."

"I’ve fallen for a peasant girl from the city and she doesn't even know I like her, and we've only spoken once, and I'll never be able to be with her," She said sadly. Lily felt she was on the verge of tears.

"Oh geez. That's bad. Now I really don't want to get married."

"Me neither. I'll never have my love but maybe I can at least help you get yours. Maybe if we convince them that we're not right for eachother you can suggest the prince from the other kingdom instead."

"I guess we could try."

"We'll just say we talked and have nothing in common and I'll suggest that I know of another kingdom that just so happens to be your princes, then they might think about it again."

"Alright. We got this."

"Completely."

They continued walking around the castle some more and Lily learned that they really didn't have anything in common. They were almost complete opposites.

Somehow Lily knew she had to stop their marriage. Having nothing in common wasn't enough. She could rule the kingdom by herself if she really had to. It was probably what was going to happen.

Sure James was friendly but she didn't want to be married to him. She wanted Mary but that probably wasn't going to happen either. Lily would be the queen. She would rule her kingdom alone. There was no point in being with James, he had his own kingdom as well and she wanted to stay here. Mary would have to be a secret friend as much as she wanted her.

It was settled. Get James his love and rule her kingdom alone.

It was the afternoon of the day Lily was going to watch the sunset with Mary. She was absolutely giddy with excitement. So much for ruling alone.

She had devised an amazing plan where she would fall sick with a cold and be asleep for the rest of the night which wouldn't draw suspicion as to why she wasn't leaving her room. She would change into her clothes ready to go then get into her bed and pretend to be asleep when her mother checked after dinner, then she would climb down the balcony away towards Mary.

Her plan worked perfectly and according to plan, as she climbed down the tangled vines, and entered the city. The walk to the abandoned house was short.

She arrived just as the sun was above the treeline, perfect timing, She heard movement above and eagerly climbed up the familiar bricks.

Mary’s shining face greeted her arrival.

“Hi Lily.”

“Hi Mary.”

“I was worried you might not show up to be honest.”

“Why? I wouldn't miss watching the sunset with you.”

“Well it seems you have quite the curfew.”

“Oh yes. But tonight we are alright. I faked a cold and no one will notice I have left.”

“Are people watching you? Why would someone notice you’ve left? Are your parents not working?”

“Oh um, they do work. But today my mother went to a different village to visit my aunt today? Yes, because we’ve not seen her in so long. She was home this afternoon though.”

“Yeah that makes sense I guess. Ooh look the sun going down.”

As soon as Mary had said that the sun was now into the open area of the tree line. The wonderful colours had started to shine towards the house.

Lily looked at Mary who already happened to be watching her with a soft gaze. As the sun slowly set, it drenched both Lily and Mary in bright oranges and yellows. The reds had started to show now and Mary kept her gaze. Lily did the same while also watching the sun bounce off Mary's face.

Lily didn’t think Mary could get any prettier basked in the glows of the setting sun. Then Mary leaned toward her, and Lily did the only natural thing and leaned forward as well. It was not a very comfortable position seeing as both her and Mary had their legs swinging over the edge, so Lily brought one of her legs up back on the platform so she could properly face Mary, and Mary did the same.

Their faces were now just inches apart, Lily could almost feel Mary's breath on her face, it was now basked in an array of beautiful colors as Mary leaned in even closer. Lily had never felt anything like this. Mary's lips were soft when they pressed against hers.

She could feel her heart beating and it was like all her senses had come to life. She had one hand on Mary’s jaw and one on her knee. Mary had looped an arm around her neck and was holding her closer, After a few minutes of this Mary pulled herself away, still staying ever so close to Lily.

“I'm hoping this goes both ways, correct?”

“Yes, clearly. I honestly thought you didn't like me though.”

“Not liking you would be a big mistake on my end. You're the most beautiful girl I’ve ever had the pleasure of just glancing at.” With that Mary gave her another peck on the lips.

“Mary, you don't know how many nights I’ve laid awake thinking about you.”

“I hope it’s been all of them since you met me.”

“It has. But I have to tell you something. Something you wont like.”

“What is it?” Mary said, concerned.

“I’m the princess. I'm Princess Lily. I'm sorry I lied but I couldn’t tell anyone.”

“I thought so. I didn't want to get attached since I figured you were the princess, but I’d fallen in love with you. I thought maybe you'd tell me you weren't her and I know we cant be together, I’ve heard rumours of you marrying prince James from the Potter Kingdom. So why lie and then kiss me if you can't stay?”

“I don't want to marry James and I'm trying to stop our marriage. I only lied because I thought we might be able to make it work, and I think we can. I just have to convince my parents you're from a different faraway kingdom, then they’ll let me marry you.”

“So more lying to the people you love? I understand you want to keep your identity a secret but maybe don't lie and actually tell me before you kiss me next time. I'm sorry Lily but I dont think this will work, as much as I wanted it to."

With tears in her eyes she pleaded, “Please Mary I love you, you're the only girl I’ll ever love.”

Mary, who had tears staining her shirt as she climbed down, didn't look at Lily till she was on the ground. “You know it wont work Lily. I'm sorry.”

Lily frantically climbed down the bricks with her eyes blurred from the tears but Mary had taken off as soon as Lily's feet touched the ground.

Her heart that was beating so fast now felt like it had been ripped out of her chest, like the claws of sadness itself had been there pulling at the veins till they burst.

“Mary,” she murmured into the cold night air as she watched the last of the sun fade.

Lily had refused to leave her room that next morning, and her mother had to pry her out so she could try on the new blue dress she had found.

“I think this one is more stunning than the last! What about it Lily?”

“Why can't I wear green? Besides me and James have nothing in common, the most we’ll ever be is just friends,” Lily was still upset over Mary.

“Well, did you have someone else in mind? From a kingdom we don't know about?”

“Not anymore.”

“Alright then. Well I think this dress fits you perfectly so prepare yourself for the next two days.”

“Yes mother.”

Lily walked aimlessly around the castle for another hour before deciding that she needed to get her emotions out.

Each member of the family had a knight assigned to guard them. Today Lily's guard had given her privacy knowing she went through something. It was almost as if they could tell everything.

"Hello Remus," Lily said, approaching him at his post at her room.

"Lily." She wanted him to use a first name basis since they were already friends when he was hired, but he still continued to bow every time.

"We talked about the bowing Rem, It's really not needed."

"Yeah but if someone comes by and we're just casually chatting they'll fire me."

"Not if I can help it. Speaking of help would you mind sword fighting with me in the arena? I need to get my emotions out in some way."

"I can escort you there but you'll have to take the emotion out on the dummies."

"You're no fun, C'mon."

Lily had thwacked each straw dummy hanging from the rafters she could. She was so upset about Mary. They liked each other yet still Lily couldn't marry her just because she was a princess and Mary was from the city.

Mary was right though. They'd never work out, and she also hated Lily now because she'd lied. She understood why but she was still hurt. Lily wished she wasn't a princess but they were no more heirs for the kingdom.

If only Mary was royal. She suggested she tell her parents Mary was royal but Mary didn't want to lie, and she was right again. But how else could Mary come live with her?

Unless. If Lily became queen on her own, it was under her say if she ruled whether she could marry royal or not.

So if her parents stepped down or they let her have the position…

She could have Mary.
It was the day of the dinner. Lily had two hours until she had to be downstairs, eating with her parents, James, and his family.

She wasn't looking forward to the gathering at all really. It was just some new boring event that they did once in a while when people came. Only this one was more important. At least to her parents.

Her maid had left after assisting Lily with her makeup. Leaving her alone to get the rest of herself ready.

She pulled on the new gown, it was a sort of cadet blue color, not really her style but the shape was good. Her hair had been previously done up as well, she had about just a little more than half an hour before she had to leave her room and head to the dining hall.

Lily was putting finishing touches on her makeup when she heard rustling out of the french doors to her balcony. Somebody was climbing up. A thief? An assassin? Maybe someone mistakes the wrong balcony? After all she'd seen someone climbing up to Remus's balcony.

More shuffling then a slight thud. They'd made it up. Lily hoisted one of her wooden chairs above her shoulder and slowly crept towards the open doors.

"Who's there?" She said, yelling outside hoping Remus didn't hear her through her bedroom door.

Then the figure slowly slid out.

Mary.

Lily dropped the chair with another loud thud.
Mary stood still, hair blowing in the wind, still out on the balcony. As much as she wanted to see Mary, now was not a good time.

"Lily, I'm sorry." And Mary quickly stepped over to her about to hug her then stopped.

Lily then wrapped her arms around her and Mary squeezed back.

"I'm really sorry but this isn't the best time Mar. I have to go to supper to stop the marriage soon."

Mary looked up at her sadly. "You can't just spend even five minutes with me?"

"I'm sure five minutes wouldn't hurt," Lily said, thinking to herself 'how bad could it go?'

Mary immediately kissed her deeply full of want and longing, almost as much as Lily had if not more.

She stepped back for a split second admiring Lily.

"I like the dress. I feel like green would suit you more though."

Lily's face went hot even touching her ears.

"I like your dress too, the colour suits you," Mary had a pink flowy summer dress on with white embroidered flowers.

"You look so lovely."

Mary said, leaning back in to kiss Lily again. Somehow she had pushed Lily all the way to her bed. The pair both flopped down and continued.

Mary was on top of her, sitting on her waist still kissing Lily deeply. She had her hands on either side of Lily's face.

Lily had her hands on Mary's hips pulling her closer when they heard a knock on the door.

"Lily! We should be heading down in 10 minutes! Finish up!"

Mary looked at the door wide eyed while still on top of Lily.

"Look at that, five more minutes of this and then you can fix up and I'll climb down the balcony as if I didn't just make out with the princess," Mary whispered, a large smile on her face.

"Now we only have four minutes."

Mary again swept down to kiss her again. Then flopped beside her on the bed. Lily took this chance to sit up and look at Mary. Her hazel eyes sparkling.

"Three minutes still."

Mary sat up beside her and started planting kisses all over her face.

"Mary, stop! That tickles!" Lily said, trying to contain her laughter.

"Really?" She had a mischievous grin on her face.

Mary now wrapped her legs around Lily's waist and continued planting the kisses.

"Lily! Two minutes!"

"Yes! Sorry Remus! Just a little busy with touch ups!"

"Busy with touch ups? Sure you aren't busy with something else? Like making out with a forbidden peasant girl?" Mary's smile grew larger.

"C'mon, you know you have to leave."

"Fine, I guess I'll go. Or I could wait for you to get back," Mary suggested, while climbing up off the bed and heading towards the balcony.

"You know you can't. I'm busy tomorrow too. I'll visit soon enough. But you can't stay tonight."

"Alright, fine. Also you look good by the way." Then Mary closed the doors and started her descent down the vines.

Lily ran over to the mirror. Her hair and dress were askew and her lipstick was smudged everywhere.

She quickly attempted to fix everything and opened her bedroom door. "How do I look Remus? Ready for dinner?"

"Good. But your lipstick is a bit smudged in the corner."

"Mary," she muttered under her breath.

"What was that?"

"Nothing! Let's get downstairs."

Now it was time to convince her parents that her and James weren't right for eachother.

She had many reasons that she couldn't share when she walked into the dining hall, but the ones she and James came up with would just have to do.

"Ah Lily you've arrived! James is also on his way now!"

Her father sat at the end of the table. She sat on the side facing her mother on his other side. The same James would bewitch his parents when he arrived.

"So how are you feeling, Lils?" Her mother asked.

"Delightful," she responded curtly.

"Very good."

"I'm here! Sorry I was running behind, got lost in the way," he strode in and sat down.

"Very well. Should we eat first or discuss the matters?"

"I say we eat first," Lily suggested. A chorus of agreement followed. Only the clink of silverware occasionally broke the speaking of the King's. No one else spoke much, Lily was afraid she'd start her rant too early if she said a peep.

The dinner was finished and everyone sat quietly at the table.

"So, the marriage, how are we proceeding? You two get along well?" Her father asked.

"See that's the issue, your Highness. Me and James here are good friends, but we have nothing in common. James wants to rule his kingdom back home, and I'd like it if I could stay here. We also have very different views."

"That's upsetting. We don't want you unhappy but our kingdom needs all the support it can get," her mother replied.

"Well yes but I wouldn't mind ruling on my own for a few years if need be, and maybe some other royalty will arrive later to take my hand."

"I see. What's your opinion on this?" Her mother turned to James's parents.

"We want our James happy, and if that means that he doesn't marry your daughter then he will find another royal."

"Actually to assist in your search for kingdoms I have found few, but one I did find is a boy from the Black family kingdom. He is regarded as very noble and quite the sensible gentleman that is needed to keep our James here in check."

"Yes. We've heard of them," James's mother answered, "They have quite the traditions over there."

"That doesn't mean they're all the same mother," James spoke.

"Very well. We will look into it. So, these two will not be getting married then?"

"Apparently not. Lily shall rule on her own till another royal attempt at marriage."

"You may stay another night if you please, then we will say our farewells tomorrow," He father said and got up from his seat.

Lily gave a look to James that said 'follow me' and left with a goodnight.

The pair met just outside the kitchens and went down an empty hallway.

As soon as they were out of sight James yelled, "We did it!"

"We sure did. Now you can be with your prince hopefully. Your parents looked like they took into account what I said."

"I only wish you could have your city girl," he said sadly.

"I know. We had an argument the other day because I lied about who I was, she understood but was still hurt. She visited me this evening and let's just say we made up."

"That's wonderful, I'm upset I'll never meet her."

Lily thought about it. She could go into the city with James to meet Mary, if she wasn't at home now. The sun had only gone down a few minutes ago.

"Meet at my room in ten minutes. You're going to meet her," and Lily sped off in the opposite direction.

Then she walked in front of the dining hall entrance and called, "Goodnight James! Sleep well!"

He got the hint and yelled back, "Goodnight Lily!"

She made it to her room, Remus outside his post.

"Remus, I'm very sleepy tonight before I go to bed. Would you mind grabbing me a tea?"

"Yes m'lady."

"We talked about the fancy stuff didn't we!" Lily said as he walked away towards the direction of the stairs.

"Hey! I'm here!" James poked his head around the corner.

"Fabulous. Get in my room."

They both entered and James flopped onto her bed immediately. "I'm so tired."

"Yeah, Yeah. We're going to stay here, Remus will bring the tea. I'll take it and say I'm off to bed to not raise suspicion and then we'll go."

"Go how? Isn't he still gonna be there?"

Lily rolled her eyes. "The balcony, your majesty," she said sarcastically.

"Great idea. Have you done this before?"

"Only a few hundred times."

"What? I can't even leave the castle without getting asked where I'm going."

"Me neither, so I put vines on my balcony."

"Smart idea."

"Lily! Your tea is here!"

She opened up the door and thanked Remus for the tea.

"Alright, get changed because our plan is now in action."

They both got into city clothes, Lily quickly made her descent down the vines. James took his sweet time as if they had nowhere to be.

"C'mon this way!" She shouted in a hushed tone.

"That's a bush?"

"Do you want to leave or not?"

"Alright, let's go straight through the bush then."

Lily quickly snuck her way through the quiet streaks, her feet barely touched the ground not making a sound. While James walked behind her stomping his loud feet.

"Would you stop that?"

"Stop what?"

"The stomping. We're almost there."

As they approached the building more quietly now, Lily could see a figure in the dark. The curls gave her away.

"Mary!" Lily whispered up at the platform.

"Lils?" Mary sounded so joyful. "Who the hell is that behind you?"

"James. Guess what! We're not getting married anymore," She said as she climbed up. "I said I would bring James to meet you."

As James was climbing up out of sight, Mary grabbed Lily's chin and gave her a quick peck before moving over to make room for James.

"Why's he so short?"

"I can hear you."

"I don't know honestly. Did I tell you I'm ruling on my own now?"

"On your own?"

At this point James had gotten up and walked away into the rest of the building. "Is this structurally sound?"

"I don't know, just come back here. Anyway, yes. I'm upset it won't work too, maybe once he's gone I can discuss it with my parents. I don't want to lie. Maybe I'll rule alone forever and you'll just have a secret room in the castle."

"Well I'd rather share," Mary smiled at her, and Lily went pink.

"Can't you do this when I'm gone?" James said from somewhere inside the house.

"Is he in the house?" Mary's voice was very alarmed all of a sudden.

"James, get out here now!"

"I'm fine. Nothing to worry about."

As soon as the words left his mouth the floor broke through.

"JAMES!"

The building was always unstable. As soon as the floor fell through she saw James hit a pile of hay and he looked fine for the most part.

The only issue was that now the rest of the building was shaking. The platform included. Mary sensing that the building was shaking was already down the now very unsteady bricks.

"Cmon Lily! Quick!"

Then the roof started the fall. She saw James run out of the building. With the roof falling the walls started to crumble.

Lily was at the edge but all the bricks had fallen and there was no clear path in time.

"Lily please!" Mary pleaded from below.

The drop was about 8 feet. She might survive, if she wasn't tossed from the building or hit the stones with a splat. There was no way she would make it.

"I love you Mary!"

"Don't speak like that! You'll live! Jump!"

"I can't jump! I'll break my neck!"

"Hang down off of the platform and swing towards me! I'll catch you!"

Lily trusted Mary. She slowly slid over the edge of the platform. What she didn't account for was the rest of the roof falling.

The side of the roof hit the platform as if it was a scale and sent her flying into the air losing her grip. She had no sense of what was up or down. She just knew she was falling.

When she knew the ground was approaching she felt a pair of arms grab her to break her fall, sort of.

Lily landed on top of Mary, sending them to the ground. She heard a grunt of pain underneath her.

She scrambled off Mary and turned to her, "Are you alright?"

"Yes, but my leg is killing me, where's James?"

Lily immediately began searching the debris pile. "James?"

"Who's there?" An unfamiliar voice said from down the street.

"Lily, I'm right here, we should go." He said, appearing behind her.

"We have to take Mary."

"Sure, but we need to go before somebody finds us," he continued whispering.

"Guys it's alright. I'll be fine healing on my own," Mary said, turning the other direction.

"No. You are getting proper healing, and besides, whoever that is is going to be pissed for breaking the house. So let's get a move on!"

Lily started into a jog helping Mary along, James right beside them. They went up to the fence and slid through the opening.

"This would have been so much easier than last time! I had to climb over the fence when I came," Mary sighing.

"You've been here?" James said, visibly confused.

"Only once. Not important. Let's get up to my room first," Lily said quickly.

"Not important? Because from what I remember-" Mary couldn't finish her sentence before Lily covered her mouth. "Not important right now."

"Will it be later?" Mary said giggling.

"That's for later."

"What the hell is going on?" Poor James. Left in the dark. Too bad. Lily wasn't filling him in.

"James, do you have a way back to your room?"

"Yeah, it's a little bit of a walk."

"Can you go that route because Remus thinks I'm asleep already."

"Yup! Nice meeting you Mary! Don't get into any trouble, you two."

"We'll try!" Mary said, as James rounded the corner.

Mary made her way up to the balcony even with her bloodied leg. Lily followed right after.

"So what happens now?" Mary sat down on the bed.

"What do you mean?"

"Well surely I can't sleep here? Don't they check on you? What happens if they find me here?"

"I'm sure it'll be alright. Remus won't tell."

"Where will I sleep?"

"Well I'd assumed it would be my bed," she shrugged.

"Gosh! Lily the princes! Found with a peasant in her bed!"

"You don't have to make it sound like that!" Lily said laughing. "And we need to be quiet, remember? It's just me in here sleeping. Supposedly."

"Fine. But do you have anything for my leg?"

Lily cleaned and bandaged the wound as best she could with the supplies in her room. Mary's skirt also had blood all over from her leg so Lily lent her some comfortable clothes.

"Geez, wearing your clothes and sleeping in your bed? I feel like a princess already."

"Very funny," Lily said, slipping under the covers.

Mary slid in beside her. They were facing each other though quite far apart. Lily felt her eyelids drop and fell into slumber.

"Goodnight Lily."

"Lily! The Potter's leave in 2 hours! Be ready by then please! You will have breakfast and see them off with your parents!" Remus called through the door.

Lily opened her eyes and said some sort of agreement. She looked around and realized that Mary had made her way to almost falling off the bed.

Lily reached over to her side and shook her shoulder lightly.

"Mary, time to get up," she whispered.

"Hm?"

"You're in the palace. I have to get ready."

"Can I stay?"

"For now, yes. But you will have to leave later."

Lily got ready while Mary stayed in her bed. She had washed out Mary's skirt and it had dried. Getting ready to leave she woke up Mary again.

"Mary, you have to leave now."

"Can't I stay and wait for you to get back?"

"You'll be bored."

"No. I'll be fine. Go and do your stuff."

"Mary."

"I'll wait. I always wait for you to come back."

"Fine. Just don't get caught."

"Yes ma'am."

Lily exited her room and headed towards the dining hall. Everyone but James sat at the table eating already.

"Ah Lily! Good morning!" Her mother said.

"Morning Lily. How did you sleep?" Her father asked.

"Quite well."

She sat down and started eating. James came in a few minutes later. "Good morning everybody!"

"Morning James," his mother said.

"Morning James!" She said as he sat down across from her.

After everyone had finished eating they headed outside. The Potter's carriage was already packed and they got inside.

The Potters said their farewells and hopped inside. James hung his head out of the window.

"Bye! Hope to see you again sometime Lily!"

"You too James! Safe travels!"

After the Potters had left things went back to normal. Her mother and father went back to work and Lily returned to her room. Before entering she spoke with Remus.

“What do you think of peasant people, Remus?”

“I don't see any difference beside the housing,” he said, and Lily gave him a quizzical look.

“I mean, we live in a castle and they live in normal homes. Basically the only difference. Sometimes I miss living out there, I had friends, most moved away. I also had him. He was everything,” As Remus spoke more he seemed to get lost in the words he spoke.

“Who?”

“Oh. Around our age. He was a good friend. Actually, more than that. I miss him.”

“Then go visit him, I don't mind.”

“I can't. I'm your personal guard and if I'm not with you then I'm guarding the castle.”

“Maybe once I'm queen I can change that.”

“I completely forgot your queen soon. Your coronation is in about a week now?”

“Yes. My parents have become too elderly to rule and want to pass the kingdom to me. I’ve been training as a queen for a while. I don't think it will be much different.”

“I'm sure you will do well Princess Lily.”

“Thank you Remus. I'm heading inside now.”

“Very well.”

As soon as Lily got inside and closed the door she was tackled with a hug and a kiss from Mary.

“You missed me that much?” Lily said giggling as Mary held onto her like a koala.

“Yes! Of course! But I’ll have to leave soon. I've gotten a job at the market, so I won't see you as much. Especially since you're becoming queen."

"We'll be okay. We can see each other when we're not busy, and don't worry, you won't have that job for long because you'll be married to me," Lily said confidently.

"Lily, I love you. If you think that we can get married somehow, then I trust you."

"Thank you Mary."

"I should really be going now, I'll see you again soon."

With that Mary quickly kissed Lily, went onto the balcony, and made her descent.

"Lily? Was someone else in here?" Remus said, knocking on the door outside.

"Uh no. Just talking to myself."

"Alright," he replied, clearly skeptical.

"Actually Remus, could you come in here?"

"Yes, if you wish." He opened the door and looked around, Lily said he could sit on one of the stools he had and he sat.

"I wanted to tell you something," she started.

"You're seeing someone. In secret."

"Yes. And you're not to tell anyone. Not even my parents. Once I am queen I will tell them."

"Why not now?"

"Because Remus, she is from the city, and she's not royal. So once I'm queen she can marry me."

"Sounds like a plan."

"You're not going to tell them? Or tell me not to marry her?"

"There's no law saying you can't. Most royal people just don't like it. They want all royal blood children."

"Oh. So once I'm queen we can get married?"

"Yes technically."

Lily went to bed that night extremely happy. Once her coronation went through she'd be able to have Mary forever.

Her coronation was in a few days. She'd have to wait but it would surely work. She'd be queen then have Mary as her wife and they'd rule the Evans kingdom together.

Today was the day. She woke up early in the morning to get ready. Lily was ready many hours early but she was too excited to go back to sleep.

She would become queen. She would rule her kingdom, and serve her people. She would have her Mary beside her just like she wanted.

When she went downstairs her parents had warm smiles on their faces.

"Hello Lily, today is the day," her mother said, as she sat down to eat.

"We're very proud of you," her father said.

The ceremony was always traditionally held in the castle with the city's people invited inside. Lily would be crowned queen and there would be a celebration.

"Yes I accept the offer of the new queen of The Evans Kingdom."

"And do the people accept Princess Lily to become their queen?"

Lily's ceremony went tremendously and the people seemed to love the idea of her as their new ruler.

After the ceremony the party was brought out to the city. She knew lots of people from her outings and met more of the city folk.

There was music and dancing, people were laughing and singing. The city was alive.

Many people came to congratulate Lily on her coronation. She didn't even realize that so many people recognized her from her visits disguised.

Apparently the disguise had fooled only children.

Then while watching the dancing she spotted Mary.

She was standing with an older lady who looked to be around her mother's age.

"Hello! How are you Mary?"

"Hi Princess Lily, I'm well. How are you?"

"Very good."

"I wasn't aware you knew the princess?" The woman with Mary asked.

"We've met a few times while Lily was in the castle gardens and I walked by," Mary said. "This is my mother Lily."

"Very nice to meet you."

"Very nice to meet you as well Princess," Mary's mother said. She had the same smile with the creased eyes.

The celebration went for hours with staff from the castle bringing food down. Eventually it was wrapped up once the sun started to set. As crowds were dispersing Lily saw Mary leaving with her mother.

She hurried over and tapped Mary on the shoulder.

"Sorry you don't mind if I steal your daughter for a minute?" She asked Mary's mother.

"Oh no! Go right ahead. I'll meet you at home Mary."

"I want to meet later," Lily said in a hushed tone.

"Where?"

"Doesn't matter, but I want to have time with you again. We can't go to our house anymore. We'll have to find someplace else."

"Can I come to the castle again once my mom falls asleep?"

"Yes, sure. I have to go now! See you soon!"

"Alright, see you soon!"

Lily returned home with her parents and they got her set up so when she woke up her first morning as queen would be perfect.

"You'll have to get up a bit earlier than usual, and you'll need to be dressed and make sure all duties are done before you go wandering off. And you won't be able to sneak out to the city as often."

Lily nodded along until the last part. "What?"

"You're very sneaky but maybe don't steal my technique next time and we wouldn't know."

"What do you mean by that?"

"We know you go out to the city. Here please sit down."

Lily, her mother, and her father all day around the table.

"We have a little bit of explaining to do. First, we know you have friends down in the city and visit there occasionally. Second, I used to do the same thing. Third, is something we haven't told you."

"Well what is it?"

"You don't know what kingdom your father comes from do you?"

Lily had never really thought about where either of her parents were from. Obviously her mother was in the Evans family, but her dad she wasn't sure.

"I'm not sure."

Her father usually wasn't much of a speaker and it was most of her mother's job for speaking. As much as he'd been around in her life she didn't know either of her parents too well.

"Lily. We wanted to tell you a while ago but there's been a few things you have been left in the dark about."

Her father paused as if not sure what to say.

"I'm not royal. I don't have any royal blood in me. I come from a line of hard working farmers. Your mother was a princess at the time and snuck out using your methods. She used to wander about talking to the locals and even going farther on horse travel. When we were young her parents didn't care so she went everywhere she could."

"Then she rode up to the farm that my family ran to give her horse some rest. We spoke for hours. She would come to visit almost everyday. I couldn't come to the castle. We fell in love with each other and she insisted we get married. She told her parents she'd never want a prince and she'd only ever love me."

"Her parents let her marry me if we didn't tell anyone that I'd been a farmer. If anyone asked, I was from a far away kingdom."

"I don't even know what to say," she said, absolutely astonished.

Lily thought her parents were the most basic people ever. Now they were telling her her father wasn't even royal?

"I think I need time to process this."

"That's alright. We can share more later. How about you get some sleep for your first day tomorrow?"

"Yes. I think I will."

Lily headed off to her quarters, she needed to think. If her mother had married someone that wasn't royal then she completely could.

Then she remembered that Mary was supposed to be coming or was already in her room. She flew down the halls towards her room.

"Hi Remus! I'm really worn out from today so I think I'll go straight to bed."

"Yes, of course. Sleep well."

"Thank you."

She slipped into the room.

"Well hello there," Mary said sitting on her bed.

"Hi, I see you're comfortable just breaking in and having the place to yourself now."

"Well I quite like it here. Besides, isn't this where we'll be sleeping?"

Lily moved her way over and sat down on the bed.

"Technically yes. Though it might get a remodel."

"Wow! I get to sleep with the queen and have a fancy new room!"

"Whatever, also guess what I've just been told."

Lily told Mary what her parents just told her and Mary practically jumping off the walls.

"Lily! Surely you know what this means!"

Mary being this loud could clearly alert Remus or multiple guards for that manner.

"Mary quiet!" She whispered.

"Oh, right. Sorry about that. I'm just really excited. We'll finally be together and able to tell somebody other than your weird friend James!"

"Yes I know! He isn't that weird. I was thinking of telling my parents in the next few days that when I was out in the city I found someone."

"Yes. Maybe give it a few days though. I'd love to meet your parents. Wait, did they say they knew about you sneaking out?"

"Yes. They don't know that you've come here though."

"Well that's a good thing. Also just wondering if you're going to sit in that dress all night?"

"Completely forgot to be honest. They've made them slightly more comfier than when I was little. Just have gotten used to them."

"Are you going to change then?"

Lily's room was an open concept type design. The main walls were the outside ones and her bathroom. All of her blinds were shut already thanks to Mary.

She usually just got changed where her dresser was in the corner, so she changed into her comfier sleeping clothes as Mary watched and then made room for her as she sat back down.

"Are you tired at all?" Lily asked her.

"A little bit. I have been at work all day."

"Exactly."

Last time Mary slept in her bed she kept to herself on her own side of the bed but tonight when Lily got settled she laid right next to her and held her hand.

"Goodnight Lily."

"Goodnight Mary."

The next morning Lily woke up right beside Mary, their hands still linked together.

"Lily! I've got you up early today to prepare!"

"Thank you Remus! I'm already awake!"

"Wonderful! I shall see you soon!"

"Mary please get up, I have to leave again. I don't want to have to keep leaving you here. Don't you have work?"

"You get ready and I'll leave once you go, okay?"

"Yes, sure. I'll be busy today. How about we meet somewhere in a few days?"

"That's too long love, I can't spend that long without you."

"You'll be fine. Soon you will live here with me and we won't have to worry about sneaking around."

Lily's day was exciting yet slightly stressful. She didn't realize how much her parents did. The castle was hard to run on its own, but Lily wanted to include the city somehow.

She thought of the idea before becoming queen that every almost every month there would be a banquet where the people came into the castle and were with her, hopefully Mary, and her parents.

Everyone would come for dinner together to have a good bond, because as much as the people needed them, they needed the city too.

Hopefully they'd agreed to this. It would have to be put away for now while things were sorted but it was in progress.

Lily had also sent James a letter of her coronation and how her day was going so far. She really hoped that James had gotten his prince and maybe they could visit sometime.

All that aside, her first day as queen went amazing.

As Lily walked downstairs for dinner she was thinking about what her parents had told her previously.

They had gotten married, but under the cost of a lie. Lily didn't want to make Mary have to do that.

She would suggest to her parents that she'd met someone down in the city and see what they thought.

"Hello Lily! Tell us all about your first day," her mother said.

Lily told them about her day while she ate dinner. They were quite impressed with how organized she was already. Then she silently finished her good before her dad spoke.

"We don't want any pressure on you dear, but we'd just like to know how you felt about the other night."

"I'm fine with it. I don't like the lying about it but you're happy together. I also have something I would like to share on the matter."

"Yes?"

"Well when I was in the city, I met someone. Someone that makes me incredibly happy, and someone I'd like to marry."

"Oh. Who are they?"

"She's Mary. We've met a few times in the city and we watch the sunsets together. I love her."

"How would you plan on marrying this girl if you're not going to tell the people that she is from the city?"

"They'll have to deal with it."

"We shall see what we can do. Since you are queen you do have the right to marry anyone you'd like. I'm sure lots of the city's people will love having someone from their rule as well."

"We will just have to see."

Lily retreated back to her room where she had woken up beside Mary just this very morning. Somehow she missed her already even though it had not even been a day.

"Hello Lily, how was today?"

"Hi Remus. It was excellent. Things are already going according to plan, and are well on their way to being accomplished."

"Sounds fantastic. I've just a question about this morning before you head to bed."

"Yes, what is it?"

"Has someone else been in there? I hear lots of hushed speaking. I am worried for your safety."

"Remus. I'm very happy you are worried but I promise you I just speak with myself often to go through my thoughts. It's a habit."

"Very well. Goodnight Lily."

"Goodnight Remus."

Lily was worried of the speaking as she changed into comfier clothes. She'd known Mary wasn't one to be quiet and still invited her into the palace and let her sleep in her bed.

Remus was trustworthy enough to know that if Lily wanted it to be private then he wouldn't say anything, but would question her safety.

She was grateful but sometimes he was very intent on knowing everything.

Mary would just have to be more quiet if she was to visit again.

Lily's next day as queen was similar to the last. Minor roadblocks were solved. Things ran smoothly for the most part. She hadn't really changed much of what her parents did beside some slight tweaks.

The main issue on her brain was that of a certain girl. Mary didn't want to lie, and Lily understood that. She was sure they would get married soon but she'd like to talk it over with her again.

So tonight before the sun set she decided to sneak out for the first time in a while.

Lily had made her way through the route and to the entrance of the old bookstore. The bell chimed as she walked in.

"Ah Lily! I have not seen you forever!"

"Lily?"

There she was. The most beautiful girl she'd ever had the pleasure of seeing with her own eyes. Mary held a large stack of books and immediately put them down and rushed to her.

"Mary!"

"Lily!"

"I see my best customers know each other?"

"Yes, we do," Mary said after hugging Lily and picking her books up. "Just these ones please Mr. Oliver."

"Have you come to see the new shipment, Miss Lily?"

"Oh yes. I've come here for the books and to find Mary. I figured she'd be around here somewhere."

"Well, have a look around. There's loads of new books lately."

Lily did find quite a few books and stuffed them into the bag she had brought. Mary had already left the store and was waiting outside when Lily left.

"I thought we weren't seeing each other so soon," she said.

"Well I couldn't resist not seeing you and telling you that you can in fact be my queen, as long as you meet my parents first."

"What! Actually Lily? This is huge. I'll have to tell my mother. Are you parents going to like me?"

"It doesn't matter, but I'm sure they will. Besides, if I love you does it matter what they think?"

Mary jumped into her arms, her stack of books slamming into Lily. Mary pulled her face away and grabbed Lily's. She kissed her and attempted to spin in circles. Which only made her lose balance.

Once Mary had stopped jumping up and down, she asked, "When should I meet them?"

"Soon. I can't live without you there. I lay awake at night thinking of what we could be, even though you are not there."

"I'll be glad to meet them tomorrow if that's alright. I can't stand to see you on that balcony without my hands around your waist."

"Arrive at the castle tomorrow at lunch and I'll let you in the normal way."

"We can't have a quick kissing break before I come in?"

"No. We'll have all the time for that later when you live there." Lily winked and headed back towards the castle. Leaving an astonished Mary behind her.

"She will be coming this afternoon for lunch."

"So we will finally meet this girl?"

"Yes."

Lily told her parents over breakfast that Mary would be coming for lunch.

"We are both very excited," her mother said cheerfully.

"I am too. You'll have to meet her mother as well."

"Ooh yes, invite her sometime too. Also a question."

"Yes?"

"Is she your girlfriend?"

"I think so? We've been seeing each other for a while now, so I guess." She had no clue if that's what Mary considered her.

The morning went by slowly. Or it seemed like it. Lily went to all her duties and finished early to coordinate the lunch. She still had time left to wait for Mary's arrival.

Lily waited by the front gates. She sent Remus to go escort Mary through the doors.

"Queen Lily," she bowed.

"Mary," she smiled at her. "Right this way, into the dining hall."

Today Mary had on a purple dress that was the shade of lilacs. It was nice beside Lily's green dress that she loved to wear.

They both entered and Lily's mother rushed over to hug Mary.

"So this is the lovely lady that has stolen my daughter's heart?"

"Yes," Mary said happily.

"Very nice to meet you Mary," her father said.

They all sat down for lunch and her parents loved Mary. They asked her everything. How they met, what she was doing in the city, did she have a job, how long had she known Lily for, and lots more.

By the time they had all finished eating Mary was worn out.

"You show Mary around the castle, we have to attend to some things, nice meeting you!"

"Sorry about my parents, they like to know what's going on."

"It did feel like an interrogation but I'm just happy I didn't have to climb up a balcony to see you this time."

"Fair. I have something to show you actually. Something you haven't seen before."

"I haven't seen any of the castles besides your bedroom but lead the way."

Lily led Mary outside and to a courtyard garden area.

"Alright, cover your eyes please."

"Okay, but you better not let me trip."

"I won't, I promise."

Lily led her farther into the garden until they were in a clearing in the woods with a tree top canopy above them.

"Open your eyes now."

She had Lily Mary for a picnic in the woods, there was a blanket and it was covered with desserts.

"I figured since you were meeting my parents for lunch we could eat dessert out here."

"It's lovely."

"I also have another surprise. I didn't know what we would consider ourselves right now so I felt like changing it."

Lily pulled out a ring. It had three flowers each with a pink gem in the middle surrounded by smaller diamonds as the petals.

"Will you marry me? Become queen?"

"Yes! Of course! It was already happening but this makes it even better!"

Mary hugged her and Lily squeezed back even tighter.

"That made me so nervous, I need to eat something," she said laughing.

Her and Mary sat outside for the rest of the day on that picnic blanket, drowning in each other's presence full of hope.

After their picnic was over Lily showed Mary around the castle, she was amazed by how big the place was even though it was on the small side for castles.

"It's just so big!"

"Well we have lots of people here, so we need lots of space," Lily shrugged.

"And I'll be ruling all of them?"

"Yes."

"I really want to marry you Lily but what if I'm no good at being a queen? Surely I'll do something wrong."

"I'll be right by your side. You don't have anything to worry about. Besides you're from the city, which means the people you know from there will love one of them on the throne."

"Yeah, I guess you're right. It will take some getting used to though."

"You will do amazing."

Lily finished giving Mary her tour and asked if she'd stay for dinner.

"No sorry. I told my mom I'd be back. Next time I visit. Like you said, I'll have all the time in the world."

"I know we will. See you soon Mary."

"I know I will Lily."

Lily stood watching as Mary went out through the large doors of the castle entrance. Soon she wouldn't have to even see the doors again.

It was just past dinner. Lily and her parents had finished eating when she told them she had something important to say.

"What is it Lily?" Her mother asked, worried evident in her voice.

"Nothing to be upset about. Actually quite the opposite. I've proposed to Mary to make it now formal that we shall be wed."

"Oh wonderful! As much as I had faith in you, you also tend to make judgements that try to keep everyone happy. Sometimes it just doesn't work, and I think Mary will be able to help you with that and rule the kingdom," her mother said, almost jumping out of her seat.

"I'm just happy that you're happy Lily. We wouldn't want you to be with someone you didn't want," her father said after with a smile.

"Thank you. I already have something of an idea for the wedding but I still have to question Mary. I would like her to visit for dinner sometime soon."

"That may be arranged. We would love to see her again. Where are you thinking of having this wedding?"

"In our gardens, it is a big area that would have lots of space."

"That can be set up as well. I will speak to some of our kitchen staff and see what they can do as well."

"Thank you. I appreciate it. I'm off to bed now."

"Goodnight Lily."

"Goodnight Mother, Father."

Lily slept soundly with the plans of her marriage drifting in her mind. It would be so soon she could hardly believe it.

The next few days went by like a blur. She continued to help the kingdom and try to tie the city's people into the kingdom more. The attempt to lower the separation was working.

Mary had come over for dinner just only two days after she had joined them for lunch. She and Mary had discussed lots of planning and things were in motion.

Lily had also invited Mary's mother and their parents had gotten along quite well. There were many complications about the wedding at first but they decided to leave it up to the girls and not get too involved.

Everything was planned out and the wedding would be in the castle gardens. The marriage would consist of a few of her parents' friends from kingdoms, Anyone Lily wanted to invite, Anyone Mary wanted to invite, and Mary's mother and her friends.

There would also be a large number of people from the city after they had been wed and then there would be a celebration in the city.

The city's people had been notified of the wedding and had also been told that Mary was the girl Lily was engaged to.

People took it very well and were quite excited. There were parties in the city for them.

Lily had also invited Mary and her mother to stay in the castle before the wedding. Mary had her own room but would frequently be seen loitering outside Lily's instead.

On one occasion such as today Lily had her speaking with Remus. There also seemed to be another voice so she poked her head out of the door.

"What's going on out here?" She said to the three people outside.

Mary had been assigned a personal guard for her stat at the castle and happened to be speaking with Remus as well.

"Ah hello Queen Lily! Just speaking with Remus we were," Sirius was Mary's assigned guard.

"Well now that you're out here I'll just come in," Mary said, slipping by her into the room.

Lily sighed but followed her in.

"Just a few days Lily, then you're all mine," Mary said laying on her bed.

"I'm already all yours. I have been for a long time."

"Of course. But now my name's on you. I also won't have my own stupid room anymore. I get to stay here."

"No one's stopping you from staying in your room."

Lily had sat down beside Mary on the bed and eventually flipped down beside her.

"Expect a visitor tonight then. You know I hold my promises."

"I'll be waiting."

Dinner was delightful. Lily always enjoyed it more when it wasn't just her and her parents.

Mary's mother was wonderful. She was glad that her and Mary's mother were getting along so well. Lily was jumping up and down with happiness.

Everything was going smoothly and the wedding was in two days. She couldn't wait, it was everything she'd hoped for since she met Mary.

They would finally have each other.

For the first time in a while Lily was alone in her room. She had a small couch that was not really used so she decided to sit there this evening.

It gave a good view of her room. She thought if Mary wanted to stay in this room maybe they could make some changes to fit both of them.

She'd finally get the chance to repaint the walls a different colour, other than the oddly toned blue she had.

The doors of the balcony swung open and there stood Mary. Grand entrance as usual. For whatever reason she had gone down to the city today and apparently wanted to climb the balcony.

"It's a good workout, Besides I think it's more romantic," she pecked Lily on the cheek and brought something out from behind her back.

"Since you proposed to me, I thought I'd get you something."

Mary gave her a small box and sat down on the couch next to her.

Lily carefully opened the lid. Inside underneath green paper was what looked to be something glass and another small box.

Lily picked up the glass object first. It was a frog seated on a lily pad with a hole in the center of the body.

"It's a candle holder that I made. When I was little I used to go to the glass makers because my friend's dad owned it. I only go occasionally now but he helped me make it for you," Mary said with a big smile.

"Oh Mary, it's lovely. I'd love to meet him sometime."

"We really should go and see him. I'll ask soon. Open the other gift."

Lily now held the other smaller box. It was very light. She opened the lid to a small sparkling necklace with a small diamond on the end.

"Mary! This is beautiful. How much did it cost you?"

"Not telling. Been saving for a while. You're worth the money dear."

Lily wrapped her arms around her and squeezed tight. "Thank you so much, I love both the gifts."

She stood and grabbed the frog, then walked over to her nightstand and angled it just right. She walked back to Mary and held up the necklace.

"Mind helping me put it on?"

"Of course."

Mary slid the cold chain around her neck and clipped it. Lily walked over to the mirror and stood in front. "It's amazing. It compliments me so well."

"I spend a lot of time looking at you. I should know what fits," Mary laughed and Lily joined her.

Mary wrapped her arms around Lily's waist as she still stood in front of the reflective surface.

"Soon we're both going to sit on that throne together. I'm excited to say that I'll be by your side for the rest of my life," Mary whispered into her ear.

"I'm glad to say the same. Living without you would hurt. I'm tired, you want to sleep here tonight?" Lily whispered back.

"Who would be foolish enough to refuse you."

Lily woke up in Mary's arms. Remus and Sirius had stopped caring about the room sharing after a while.

Lily was up earlier this morning and so was Mary. They discussed wedding plans for a while then Mary figured she should leave.

When she opened the door she poked her head back in. "Remus isn't here. Just to let you know."

"Oh. Really?"

"Yeah."

Lily got dressed and joined her just outside the door. "Hm. That's odd."

"Quite."

"You want to go on a walk? Since they're not here to watch us?"

"I'd love to."

Lily and Mary walked around the castle for ages discussing everything under the sun. They went and ate breakfast then continued walking.
Eventually they were pulled apart for hair and makeup discussions.

"Miss Lily, we want everything to be perfect for you, so please tell us if you don't like something," one of the makeup artists that were hired said to her.

"Yes. Of course I will." Lily gave her a smile as the woman patted on more makeup.

Once Lily was done with hair and makeup, a rehearsal with everyone was completed, and the finishing touches were done on the outside ceremony, the party room, and the town was also decorated.

Lily was thrilled everything was going so well. Guests also started arriving that day. Most were situated by her parents but if Lily knew them or she had invited them herself she would greet them.

Occasionally Mary would join her. One particular couple from a kingdom farther away caught her attention. She requested Mary join her to greet these people.

"Queen Lily! Mary!"

James's loud voice could be heard across the whole entrance. He emerged through the crowd of guests with a boy with dark hair by his side.

"James! Hi!"

"I did it! Look who's here!"

She looked toward the other boy, "I'm guessing your Regulus?" She smiled.

"Yes. Thank you for inviting the both of us," he seemed serious but had a small smile.

"You're welcome! As you've probably seen from the invite, I did it as well!"

Both her and James were practically bouncing with joy as their partners watched.

That afternoon Lily and Mary showed James and Regulus all around the castle. They talked for hours.

There was also a small party being hosted for the guests and Lily quite enjoyed herself. Many people congratulated her and were very happy.

She almost couldn't sleep that night from excitement.

Lily was forbidden from seeing Mary until she was brought down the aisle. She was buzzing with happiness. She couldn't wait. Today she got married. Her and Mary would rule together till they were old.

The whole of her morning was spent getting ready for the whole thing. They had room just for getting ready. A little after lunch Lily was being escorted outside.

The guests were all seated in the white chairs. The music played. The flower girl had run down the aisle. Her father walked her down the aisle.

The feelings sunk in. The music waved its way around as she stepped up the stage.

Lily felt the tears prick her eyes as Mary walked down the aisle with her father.

She joined her on the stage and the vows were exchanged. They gave each other the rings. Then they kissed. It has to have been Lily's favourite. The passion was overflowing, they both had been waiting for months. It was almost like a dream.

Mary grabbed Lily's hand and they ran down the aisle. Gowns both flowing behind them in the wind. The sun slowly set behind them.

This is all Lily had ever wanted. Mary by her side. She would have this dream forever. Except it wasn't a dream. She could live.

"I love you."

"I love you more."

Lily loved Mary. Mary loved Lily.

What more could they ever want.