Exploring the Unwritten Fanfiction: The Aftermath of Lily’s Sacrifice

Introduction

The death of Lily Evans and James Sirius Black in the Harry Potter universe has sent ripples of heartache and tragedy through countless fanfiction works. One alternate scenario, however, invites the exploration of another path: What if Lily had lived, and how would the events unfold?

Scenario 1: Lily Lives

1a) Lily, James, and Harry die

In this sub-scenario, Lily, James, and Harry all meet their ends, leaving behind a tragic tableau. If Lily had the choice to stand aside, as in the original timeline where her decision paralyzed Harry to become the Boy Who Lived, her sacrifices may have been for nothing. Thus, Sirius would arrive at the cottage scene to find the body of his best friend, and likely his godson.

Sirius’s loyalty to James would lead him to stay with Lily, perhaps offering comfort in a moment of desolation. Alternatively, his reckless nature might prompt him to hunt Peter Pettigrew down. Regardless of which course he takes, the outcome would likely be grim for Peter, and the story could evolve into a conflict of revenge and a search for justice for James and Harry.

1b) Lily, Harry, and the Adult James

On the other hand, if James were given the choice to live, Voldemort, in an attempt to preserve pureblood lines, could have incapacitated him while allowing Lily and Harry to survive. This scenario is explored in our fanfic, where Lily and Harry survive, and James, injured but alive, is taken to St. Mungos. Sirius would focus on ensuring James’s recovery and protecting Harry, perhaps fostering a bond similar to that with the Dursleys but with Sirius as a stable guardian figure.

Scenario 2: James Lives

In this alternate scenario, James survives a magical attack, while Lily falls and Harry is left as the Boy Who Lived. James’s permanent injury would prompt Dumbledore to place Harry with the Dursleys for protection. However, this time, Sirius would prioritize James's treatment at St. Mungos and Harry's care. Even after James's recovery, Sirius ensures Harry remains with the Dursleys but stays close, challenging the Dursleys to accept his presence.

With James's active role in Harry's life, there would be no need for Sirius and Remus to raise Harry as guardians. The story here revolves around the dynamic between a permanently injured James, a helpless Harry, and the unwavering support of Sirius.

Conclusion

The death of Lily and James in the Harry Potter universe has profound implications for the fictional characters and the storylines. Exploring the alternate paths where they survive offers a rich tapestry of human emotions, conflict, and the emergence of new dynamics. Each possibility brings its own set of challenges and opportunities, contributing to the enduring human desire to explore and rewrite what could have been.