Yesss I'm so glad you like it! Everything that you pointed out is what I love about the First War (or at least how a lot of people interpret it... its potential, whatever) - the darkness with warmth provided by family, friends & hope, the heartbreaking parts of canon re: the Marauders that give us so much ammo for R/S. I was afraid it would be a little too gloomy for ~*The Holidays*~ but I think the dinner scene mixes enough light-heartedness in.

Again, so happy you enjoyed it and happy winter!!