*flails* OMFG, this is outstanding, really. I have goosebumps. I love the feeling that it's in slow motion at the beginning, as she manages multiple thoughts in mere seconds; then double-time at the end, as everything seems to happen so fast. And so many poignant, crucial lines that say so much with so few words. And the thoughts about Sirius, and the flashback to her childhood, and, gah, just everything. And-

plunging into Harry's room with her eyes already casting about wildly for weapons, for a chance, for hope, but she knows James is already dead.

This gave me the chills. Bravo, dear author. Astonishing work.