HP
Lease of new Life - Chapter 55 - The wand Chooses the Wizard
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Tuesday the 1st of January 1991 meant the return of lessons for Alex. Severus was sat in the study whilst Alex was out in the greenhouse tending to his puffapod's. Since Friday a number of things had occurred. The first was that Severus had sent the membership forms off to BNYDA for Alex's membership. His membership pass had arrived yesterday. Severus had therefore sent off the membership pass along with the forms to the Ministry of Magic. He was therefore expecting the pass to be returned over the next couple of days along with an early wand access exemption.
From what Severus had learned from Alex, Sebastian's parents had done the same for him. Hopefully if things worked out they could go get their wands together. He had also learned from Alex that he had told Sebastian more about the abuse, it made him incredibly proud of his son that he was able to do so. Now that he was expecting the exemption though he had a few things to think about.
For one he wanted Alex and Sebastian to be ready for the tournament. They had decided they would be entering the doubles together. To get them ready meant he would have to train them in combat and defence. It would also mean he would have to train them physically as well. Wizards often relied on magic too often and took for granted what physical fitness could do for you. Dodging and manoeuvring played a large part in duels so the more stamina you had the longer you could last.
He intended therefore to start Alex and Sebastian on a rigorous training regime. One that would include swimming and running to build up their muscle as well as cardiovascular fitness. A new training programme however meant changing Alex's schedule so that was what he was doing at the current moment. The new schedule he was drafting was complicated for a number of reasons.
For one he needed to figure out the best way to combine training and education, and once he had, the best balance between the two. It would not do for Alex to become exhausted before his lessons. The next problem he faced was dealing with the two hour limit per day in which Alex could use his wand. That meant he had to mix the days up so that Alex never had his wand for longer than that prescribed time. The last problem was deciding on which lessons to lose from the current schedule since he needed to add running and swimming as well as healing.
Severus got to work on the schedule and was almost finished when he heard Alex walking through the hallway, no doubt heading towards the shower. Severus continued with his work and was just about finished when Alex entered the study dressed in a pair of jeans and a T-shirt.
"What are you doing?" asked Alex curiously.
"I'm working on your new schedule, I just finished, do you want to see?"
"Sure," replied Alex seating himself beside Severus. Alex pulled the schedule in front of him and read away.
Time Table for Alexander Snape Aged Eight
Monday:
08:00 – 08:15 – awake and showered.
08:15 – 09:00 – Breakfast and getting ready.
09:00 – 10:30 – Running & physical fitness.
10:30 – 11:00 – Resting and getting ready for tutoring.
11:00 – 12:00 – History of Magic and Source Analysis.
12:00 – 13:00 – Lunch and playtime.
13:00 – 15:00 – Charms (Theory & Practical).
15:00 – 18:00 – Free time
18:00 – 19:00 – Dinner time at table.
19:00 – 20:00 – Bath time and getting ready for bed.
20:00 – 08:40 – Sleeping.
Tuesday:
08:40 – 09:00 – awake and showered.
09:00 – 10:00 – Breakfast and getting ready for tutoring.
10:00 – 12:00 – Herbology (Theory & Practical).
12:00 – 13:00 – Lunch and playtime.
13:00 – 15:00 – Mathematics and Arithmancy.
15:00 – 18:00 – Free time
18:00 – 19:00 – Dinner time at table.
19:00 – 20:00 – Bath time and getting ready for bed.
20:00 – 08:00 – Sleeping.
Wednesday:
08:00 – 08:15 – awake and showered.
08:15 – 09:00 – Breakfast and getting ready.
09:00 – 10:30 – Swimming.
10:30 – 11:00 – Resting and getting ready for tutoring.
11:00 – 12:00 – English literature.
12:00 – 13:00 – Lunch and playtime.
13:00 – 15:00 – DADA (Theory & Practical)
15:00 – 18:00 – Free time
18:00 – 19:00 – Dinner time at table.
19:00 – 20:00 – Bath time and getting ready for bed.
20:00 – 08:00 – Sleeping.
Thursday:
08:00 – 08:15 – awake and showered.
08:15 – 09:00 – Breakfast and getting ready.
09:00 – 10:30 – Running & physical fitness.
10:30 – 11:00 – Resting and getting ready for tutoring.
11:00 – 12:00 – Essay Writing.
12:00 – 13:00 – Lunch and playtime.
13:00 – 15:00 – Transfiguration (Theory & Practical)
15:00 – 18:00 – Free time
18:00 – 19:00 – Dinner time at table.
19:00 – 20:00 – Bath time and getting ready for bed.
20:00 – 08:40 – Sleeping.
Friday:
08:40 – 09:00 – awake and showered.
09:00 – 10:00 – Breakfast and getting ready for tutoring.
10:00 – 12:00 – Potions (Theory & Practical).
12:00 – 13:00 – Lunch and playtime.
13:00 – 15:00 – Healing/First aid/Biology.
15:00 – 18:00 – Free time
18:00 – 19:00 – Dinner time at table.
19:00 – 20:00 – Bath time and getting ready for bed.
20:00 – 09:00 – Sleeping.
Saturday:
09:00 – 09:20 – awake and showered.
09:20 – 10:30 – Breakfast & Getting Ready.
10:30 – 12:00 – Swimming.
12:00 – 13:00 – Lunch and playtime.
13:00 – 15:00 – Potions (Theory & Practical).
15:00 – 18:00 – Free time
18:00 – 19:00 – Dinner time at table.
19:00 – 20:00 – Bath time and getting ready for bed.
20:00 – 09:00 – Sleeping.
Sunday:
09:00 – 09:20 – awake and showered.
09:20 – 10:30 – Breakfast and getting ready for tutoring.
10:30 – 12:30 – DADA/Charms/Transfiguration review (Practical only)
12:30 – 13:30 – Lunch and playtime.
13:30 – 18:00 – Free time
18:00 – 19:00 – Dinner time at table.
19:00 – 20:00 – Bath time and getting ready for bed.
20:00 – 08:00 – Sleeping.
Total hours per week 168.
Hours broken down by subjects/activities.
Sleeping 87hours 20minutes.
Free time 22hours 30minutes.
Breakfast/Lunch/ dinner 19hours 55minutes.
Bath time + getting ready for bed 7hours.
Potions 4hours.
Swimming 3hours.
Running 3hours.
Charms 2hours 40minutes.
DADA 2hours 40minutes.
Transfiguration 2hours 40minutes.
Showers 2hours 10minutes.
Healing/First aid/Biology 2hours.
Mathematics and Arithmancy 2hours.
Herbology 2hours.
History of Magic and Source analysis. 1hour.
Essay Writing 1hour.
English/English literature 1hour.
"You changed my bedtime," said Alex with a frown.
"I did is that a problem?"
"Well it's a bit early isn't it."
"It's earlier because you will be waking up earlier, you will be more tired from your training as well."
"Suppose," replied Alex not completely convinced. Severus watched Alex carefully but decided not to push the point. He would wait until the training regime started. Then Alex would realise just how tired he was and wouldn't argue. Severus wasn't stupid, he knew exactly what he was doing.
"So running and swimming?"
"Yes that makes up your physical fitness training. Both will help you improve your cardiovascular fitness and help you build muscle in a natural way, with the exception of Wednesday and Thursday you have rest days in between your exercise days, you also alternate between swimming and running so you don't become bored," explained Severus.
"That's cool, you added healing as well," smiled Alex.
"Indeed, I thought it best to combine healing with your biology lessons. I also made sure you only have one practical per day so you don' exceed your two hour per day limit with your wand, of course I had to remove some lessons and reduce your potions from three lessons per week to two, but considering how well your doing I don't think that's a problem."
"Apart from the bed times it's fine," answered Alex. Severus pondered the issue and decided on the best course of action to placate Alex.
"How about this, when we start training if you're not tired then you can go to bed at nine," said Severus as a way of compromise. He had nothing to lose after all, there was no way Alex wouldn't be tired after an exhausting day of training and lessons.
"Okay," grinned Alex.
"Good, now don't forget you need to be home early today to get ready for our dinner with the Miles's.
"I know dad."
"What are you going to do today?"
"Were going to practice taking penalties," answered Alex.
"Sounds fun."
"What about you?"
"I need to finish the order from St Mungo's so I will be brewing."
"How much do you have left?"
"I'm almost finished, it should be completed by tomorrow."
"That's early then isn't it?"
"It is, perhaps they will give me a bonus for sending the order early," mused Severus.
"How much are they paying you anyway?" asked Alex curiously.
"If I tell you then I have to kill you," smirked Severus.
"Come on dad!"
"Nope."
"Come on!"
"What's this," said Severus holding up his hands, "my hands are twitching, what?" said Severus holding them up to his ears. "You want me to tickle him?"
"Ahh no dad!" cried Alex before he fled from the room. Severus chased after him and followed him into the kitchen. They had a standoff at the kitchen table with Severus on one side and Alex on the other. "I'm gonna get you," smiled Severus.
"No!" laughed Alex. Severus waited to see if Alex would go either way but when he didn't he went after him and chased him from around the left side. He almost had him but Alex scooted underneath the table on his hands and knees and emerged on the other side. He then dashed towards the hall and thundered up the stairs.
Severus raced after him and entered the attic. Once there he observed the room which looked empty. He checked under the bed and desks and didn't find Alex. The only place left was the wardrobes. Severus looked at them and on closer inspection found one of the doors slightly open. His wards of course prevented the door from closing if Alex was inside. He decided to surprise Alex and waited beside it.
Alex was sat inside the bottom of his wardrobe hiding from his dad. He had been sat in there for the last five minutes. He strained his ears to see if he could hear anything outside, he couldn't and assumed he dad must have given up. He opened the door and then stepped outside it.
"Got you," heard Alex before he was tackled by Severus.
"Ahh!" cried Alex in surprise as he was picked up and thrown onto his bed. Severus followed up and immediately cast a sticking charm on Alex's bottom to prevent him from getting up. Alex tried to get up in vain and then found himself under attack from tickling. "No dad!" laughed Alex as he squirmed, wriggled and giggled. "HAHAHAHA...HEHEAHA...no dad...don't...stop!"
"Don't stop? Okay I won't," laughed Severus.
"No stop!" laughed Alex uncontrollably. Severus kept up the tickling and Alex couldn't do anything but laugh, any thought of fighting back was rendered impossible since he was preoccupied with laughing so much. Severus stopped and looked down at Alex as he tried to catch his breath, a massive grin on his face.
Alex who was lying on his back and couldn't get up brought his legs and arms up to his chest to try and protect himself. He looked up at his dad who he was at the complete mercy of. "Better get rid of these," said Severus pushing Alex's legs back down out of the way. "Gonna get you," teased Severus running his fingers along Alex's belly.
"Huh-no don't!" laughed Alex trying to push his dad's hand out of the way. He quickly found both his arms held over his head though by one of his dad's hands, leaving the other free to tickle away. "HAHAHAH!" laughed Alex kicking his legs as he did. Severus kept tickling but eventually let up.
"Should I stop?" teased Severus.
"Yeah dad," smiled Alex.
"Okay," said Severus releasing the sticking charm. "Why don't you get ready?"
"Yeah," smiled Alex.
"Don't forget I need to check your harness."
"I won't dad."
"Good," replied Severus making his way down to the study. Once there Severus seated himself and picked up his copy of the Evening Prophet. He read away until Alex returned a few minutes later dressed in his riding wear. Harness and Comet 180 in hand. "Let's see," said Severus going to check the harness. He readjusted and fastened some of the straps before he double checked them, convinced it was on properly he nodded to Alex.
"See you later dad!"
"Bye Alex, have fun," said Severus as he watched Alex stride out of the house. Once he was gone Severus rose and made his way to his lab. He intended to finish that order from St Mungo's and wanted to get most of it done today.
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Severus stood in the study in front of the mirror checking himself. He was wearing his best quality dress robes which incidentally were black. He motioned for Alex to step in front of him. He checked Alex over and observed his attire. Alex was currently wearing his black dress pants, shoes and black waistcoat with white shirt. He also wore a black bowtie under his black and dark green winter robes. Over his winter robes he wore his black hooded cloak which was fastened with his gold fastenings. Lastly was the jewellery which consisted of his gold serpent bracelet and ring.
Severus smoothed out Alex's robes and waved his wand over them to get out any of the cresses, making them immaculate. The last thing he checked was Alex's hair that was styled with his hair product which made it nice and shiny. "Ready?"
"Sure dad."
"Alright lets go then," said Severus pulling up Alex's hood to keep his head warm. They exited through the front door with Severus closing it behind them. They walked down the path and then onto Cauldron Cross. They walked to Wandwood Walk and knocked on the front door and were greeted by Mr Miles.
"Severus, Alex," welcomed Mr Miles.
"Philip."
"Hi there Mr Miles."
"Come in then," gestured Mr Miles. Severus and Alex entered and then made their way into the kitchen. Once in the kitchen they removed their cloaks and seated themselves at the table with Alex sat beside Sebastian. Mrs Miles gave Alex a smile before she spoke up, "You look very smart Alex."
"Thank you Mrs Miles."
"Would you like some Butterbeer?"
"It's up to dad really."
"You may, just half a pint Lisa," replied Severus.
"Please then," said Alex as Mrs Miles poured Alex a bottle of Butterbeer. She poured half into his own glass and half into Sebastian's.
"Cheers mate," spoke up Sebastian.
"Cheers," replied Alex as they clinked their classes together and took a swig each. They adults and kids spoke with each other respectively until Lisa served them their dinner and sat down herself.
"So has Alex received his membership yet?" asked Mrs Miles aiming the question at Severus.
"Yes he received his pass yesterday, I sent it off along with the forms to the Ministry to get his exemption," informed Severus.
"We did the same for Sebastian, he mentioned something about you offering to tutor him," replied Mrs Miles taking a sip from her red wine.
"Well only qualified BNYDA instructors are authorised to tutor, I plan to take the test when I take Alex to Diagon Alley to get his wand once his exemption comes through."
"So you would be able to tutor him?" asked Mr Miles.
"Yes, I just drew up Alex's new schedule today."
"Really? Is there any chance we could see it?"
"Of course," replied Severus taking out Alex's schedule from his pocket, he had anticipated that this would be a topic of discussion. He passed it over to Mr and Mrs Miles. They both contemplated the document before Mrs Miles spoke up.
"You really teach Alex all these subjects?"
"Indeed."
"Seems very comprehensive," observed Mr Miles.
"I usually teach Sebastian his Maths and English but didn't really give much thought to the other subjects," said Mrs Miles.
Can I see?" asked Sebastian.
"Here," said Mr Miles passing it over.
"You do a lot don't you, running and swimming as well."
"You will be doing those as well wont you?" asked Alex.
"I suppose," replied Sebastian.
"Hmmm, I was thinking, might it not be a good idea for you to tutor Sebastian in the same subjects as Alex? I mean Sebastian will be ten in March and then it won't be long until he goes off to Hogwarts. We considered getting him a tutor then but now is as good as any time I suppose," said Mrs Miles.
"That would be cool," smiled Alex. It wasn't as if he was lonely in his lessons but it would be nice to have some company.
"Yeah I'd like it, especially if we're entering the tournament."
"Does seem like a good idea, we would pay you of course, but what of your qualifications?"
"I received O's in all of my OWLS which consisted of the standard subjects with the electives being Arithmancy and Ancient Runes. In my NEWTS I scored O's in Potions, Herbology, Defence, Arithmancy and Astronomy. I also received E's in my Transfiguration, Ancient Runes, Charms and History."
"That's very impressive," said Mr Miles as he whistled.
"Indeed, I received my Potions Mastery under Arsenius Jigger in 1979. I' am qualified teacher and have O's in my healing and first aid courses, I' am also a qualified first aider and know Muggle CPR. Since I' am a potions master and have taught potions at Hogwarts between 1981-1990, my strengths lie in Potions and Herbology, I also fought in the war so my defensive abilities are sufficient."
"You never told me you had all that dad," observed Alex.
"You never asked," smiled Severus.
"I knew you were clever though."
"So what would Sebastian be learning?" asked Mrs Miles.
"The same material I started teaching Alex with when I began tutoring him. Alex will be ahead of him of course but that is to be expected. As for the practical stuff they will both be getting their wands around the same time. Since that is the case they will most likely be on an even footing. Alex has practiced the theory and the wand movements but will most likely find controlling his magic difficult. Sebastian who is almost ten will find controlling his magic easier but won't know the theory as well. I expect they will both have problems which I will have to help them with. I would suggest we start the tutoring once they get their wands," explained Severus as he finished eating his food.
"Boys why don't you go play while we work out the details," said Mrs Miles.
"Sure," said Sebastian standing, "Come on Alex we can go read up on United."
"Okay," agreed Alex. Severus watched them go and spoke up once they were out of earshot.
"So what details are you interested in?"
"Well how much would you be charging?" Severus pondered the issue in his head.
There was the fact he was going to be teaching Sebastian seven days a week whereas Hogwarts only taught five days a week. Then again he wouldn't need to supply accommodation, he may need to supply food which would be something he needed to consider.
"Will Sebastian be eating his lunch here or at my house?"
"I think it would be easier if he had it here, he can just Floo over for lunch and return afterwards," replied Mrs Miles.
So he didn't need to worry about the cost of food. Then there was the swimming and running. Well since it was just physical exercise he didn't think it right to charge for that. That just meant the lessons. He decided to add up the total hours and then work out the cost on average per hour. He figured he would be teaching Sebastian twenty one hours a week. If he charged £5 per hour which was a generous rate then the total cost would be £105 per week or ʛ21.
"ʛ21 a week is what I had in mind, that covers the lessons only, I would not charge for the physical fitness, I would not be teaching anything then, just supervising."
"Not round it off to ʛ20 to keep things simple?" asked Mr Miles.
"We could yes," agreed Severus.
"Anything else we need to know?"
"Sebastian will need a uniform, that's one of my conditions, I make Alex do just the same, he will also need running and swimming kit as well as his books, I will provide the writing and potions equipment."
"Why don't we get everything once they go for their wands?"
"Yes that's fine, I also use a reward system at home, It's called privilege points, I award points to Alex when he behaves well or does good work, I remove them when he misbehaves. When he reaches fifty points he gets a prize. I would like to use the same system with Sebastian. It would mean installing an hour glass in your house somewhere and you purchasing him prizes when he reaches fifty points."
"That seems fine," agreed Mr Miles.
"So what uniform and books will he need?"
"I will write you a list, do you perhaps have a quill and parchment?"
"Yes of course," replied Mrs Miles summoning them. See passed them to Severus who began writing away. A few minutes later he was finished.
Uniform:
Hogwarts style black robes: No crest or house colours.
Hogwarts style black tie.
Grey V-neck jumper.
White shirts.
Grey trousers.
Black shoes.
Books:
Standard Book Spells (Grade 1) By Miranda Goshawk.
A History of Magic by Bathilda Bagshot.
Magical Theory by Adalbert Waffling.
A Beginner's Guide to Transfiguration by Emeric Switch.
One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi by Phyllida Spore.
Magical Drafts and Potions by Arsenius Jigger.
The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection by Quentin Trimble.
"The good news is that all of those books will be used in Sebastian's first year so you won't need to purchase them again," said Severus passing the list over.
"So we buy the wand, books, uniform and the sports stuff and you provide the lessons?" asked Mr Miles.
"Indeed, although I have no say over how you parent Sebastian it would be beneficial to his health if you followed a similar schedule to the one I have outlined for Alex. What I mean is the bedtimes and such. The regime I devised is quite intensive, he will need a lot of sleep or else he won't be able to concentrate in his lessons."
"He normally goes to bed at ten," replied Mrs Miles.
"Well I suggest you lower it once the tutoring begins, as you know Alex will be going bed at eight, I would suggest something similar for Sebastian or perhaps nine since he is older."
"He won't like that," chuckled Mr Miles.
"No he won't, Alex feels the same, I told him he can maintain his normal bedtime if he doesn't feel tired, an empty promise since I know he won't be able to stay awake that long, they will wise up once they start the regime and realise they need more sleep so don't worry about it."
"That's fine," replied Mr Miles. The conversation changed to other affairs. They discussed politics as well as the Ministry. Severus learned that Mr Miles was the deputy head of the Department of Magical transportation. Matters then moved onto other issues such as Quidditch which Severus sat through patiently. The conversation moved back to the boys and what wands they might get. It was while discussing the boys that Alex came up.
"I hope you don't mind me saying but Sebastian told me more about Alex," spoke up Mrs Miles.
"I know he told me himself," replied Severus.
"Oh I see...was he really...you know...raped?" asked Mrs Miles hoping it wasn't true.
"Unfortunately it is true yes," sighed Severus.
"Do you know who did it?"
"The head of the orphanage Alex stayed in. A despicable and vile man by the name of Vernon," snarled Severus.
"Bastard!" remarked Mr Miles.
"And he has been punished yes?" asked Mrs Miles.
"Yes he has been dealt with," was Severus's vague reply.
"Good," smiled Mrs Miles.
"If anyone did that to our Sebastian I'd kill them myself," declared Mr Miles vigorously.
"Philip!" admonished Mrs Miles.
"What you're saying you wouldn't want to hurt anyone who did that to your baby?" remarked Mr Miles.
"I...I know...but killing...it's still wrong," said Mrs Miles conflicted.
"I think unless it has happened to your child you wouldn't know what you would do," said Severus.
"And what would you do Severus?" asked Mrs Miles.
"I'd kill the bastard without a second thought if I ever got the chance, he violated my boy and made him feel worthless, Alex showed me a memory of one of the times it happened, it was one of the most horrifying thing's I've ever had to watch. It made my blood boil, you know Alex thought it was somehow his fault...or that he should feel ashamed of himself because he became aroused, of course he couldn't help that, he doesn't think that anymore but he did for awhile," seethed Severus, although in the back of the his head there was a voice that said he might have already killed Vernon, he didn't know for sure though.
"He really felt that?" asked Mr Miles horrified.
"Yes abusers do that to their victims, Vernon was very good at it, thankfully Alex has improved a lot."
"You must not have been around Alex much though right?" asked Mr Miles.
"No I didn't even know I had a son until early August of last year. Once I rescued him from the orphanage he spent a month or so recovering in St Mungo's, then we moved here since my old lodgings were not adequate enough."
"And Alex's mum when did she die?"
"She died in childbirth, we were never together, never seriously anyway, when she died her family sent Alex to the orphanage."
"What but why?" asked Mrs Miles in outrage.
"Alex's mother was a pureblood from France. I' am a half blood, that alone is enough to cause a scandal, what added to it was the fact that she was already in an arranged marriage with another pureblood family, I suppose I'm lucky they sent him away and didn't just kill him."
"Makes sense, I don't like it but it makes sense, we get a lot of pureblood bigotry in the Ministry as well now you mention it," replied Mr Miles. Severus mentally made a note of that, it would be useful information if Albus ever needed a new contact in the Ministry, especially since Philip was a Muggleborn as well. They were interrupted from their conversation when Alex and Sebastian emerged. Severus checked the time and discovered it was 20:06.
"I think we best be off," said Severus standing.
"Yes but thank you for coming," replied Mr Miles.
"Indeed, thank you for dinner as well it was lovely."
"You're welcome," beamed Mrs Miles at the praise.
"So what's happening with the lessons?" asked Sebastian.
"You will be starting them when you get your wand, we need to purchase some other things as well, I can tell you all about it once we see the Snape's out," said Mrs Miles with a hand on Sebastian's shoulder.
"That's cool, Alex was telling me about his lessons, he knows everything!"
"I don't know everything."
"We'll probably not but you're clever."
"Suppose."
"Don't sell yourself short lad," spoke up Mr Miles.
"He's right Alex, now come, say goodbye," said Severus leading Alex out to the front door. Once outside they exchanged their goodbyes before heading home.
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Friday the 4th of January 1991 was a special day for Alex and Sebastian. Today was the day they would both be getting their wands. Since Severus and the Miles's had sent off their applications, they had received their exemptions today. Both Severus and Mrs Miles had their official looking documents on hand as they Floo'ed to the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley.
They had a busy day ahead of them. Severus needed to purchase Alex his wand as well as his fitness gear. Similarly Mrs Miles needed to purchase Sebastian his uniform, fitness gear and his books. Severus also had to visit BYNDA's HQ in London to be tested to become an instructor.
The plan then was to purchase the clothing which they would get in Madam Malkin's and then visit Olivander's for the wands. They would then split up, Mrs Miles would take the kids to get Sebastian's books and then Alex would be going shopping to get him a birthday present. Severus knowing this had strictly forbidden Alex from spending anymore than a Galleon.
They entered Diagon Alley as the wall re-arranged itself to permit them entrance. The parents walked hand in hand with their respective children and walked towards Madam Malkin's. They entered causing the bell above the door to chime out. They were addressed by Madam Malkin herself.
"How can I help you dears?"
"Sebastian here needs a uniform making," said Mrs Miles leading Sebastian over to her. Severus then lead Alex over to the Muggle clothing section. Once there he began browsing for what Alex and Sebastian would need. Thankfully Mr Miles had told him what sizes Sebastian needed. He picked out a grey pair of short athletic shorts for Alex as well as a black sleeveless jersey. He picked out a pair in similar style for Sebastian only the jersey was white and the shorts red.
He also decided to purchase a pair of black compression leggings for the boys, they would need it in the current weather, they could wear the shorts closer to summer. With the kids running gear purchased he moved on to his own stuff. He purchased a pair of shorts and jersey in black as well as a pair of jogging bottoms which not surprisingly were black as well. Next came the swimwear, he selected a black pair of aqua shorts for both boys as well as a pair of black briefs for Sebastian. He decided to get both styles so he could choose. The last purchase was two black swim caps for both boys.
Severus and Alex made their way over to the counter and waited for Sebastian and Mr Miles. They emerged a few minutes later by which time Severus had already paid. Madam Malkin bagged Sebastian's uniform and handed them to Mrs Miles who then paid. Once out the store she passed over to Severus what she owed him for Sebastian's fitness wear. They then made their way down the Alley and turned off towards Olivander's. Alex entered the store first and approached the counter as the other three followed. Severus rung the bell on the counter and waited patiently.
"Ah Severus Snape here once again, what can I do for you?" asked Olivander.
"Alex here needs his first wand."
"Ministry of Magic early wand access exemption?"
"Yes here," said Severus producing the official looking document.
"I see well everything looks to be in order. Hmm let's see then," said Olivander as he browsed the numerous shelves. Alex stood there as the tape measure measured all of his body, it was quite usual. "How about this, Acacia 15', Unicorn hair," said Olivander passing the wand to Alex. When he did nothing Olivander said, "Well give it a wave!"
Alex did so and nothing happened, "Well not that one."
"Nope," smiled Olivander before he produced another wand. "Willow 12', Phoenix feather." Alex waved the wand and this time the lamp over Olivander's desk exploded sending shattered glass everywhere.
"Definitely not," said Olivander taking the wand and repairing the lamp. Wand after wand was given to Alex and he couldn't find a match. His right arm felt like it was going to drop off. "Hmm don't worry we will find you one," declared Olivander even more excited. They kept going until half the wands in the shop must have been tried.
"Try this one," said Olivander passing Alex another wand. "Hawthorn 11', Dragon Heartstring." Alex took the wand and immediately felt warmth flow through his right hand. This was definitely the wand! Alex waved the wand causing sparks to come flying out of it like fireworks.
"Ah Excellent!" cried Olivander, taking the wand from Alex so he could store it away in its box.
"Well done Alex!" called Mrs Miles.
"Yeah good one mate,"
"That's a good wand son," remarked Severus as he clapped Alex on the back. Severus then paid Olivander ʛ7 for the wand and pocketed it. Sebastian was next and thankfully didn't take anywhere near as long. After four wands Olivander declared, "Sycamore 13', Unicorn Hair." Sebastian waved the wand and produced sparks like Alex had done. Mrs Miles paid and they left. Severus said his goodbyes and warned Alex to behave before he apparated away.
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Severus arrived inside the lobby of the BNYDA headquarters in London next to the Ministry. He approached the receptionist and informed her of his appointment. He was told to go to floor three and that his tester would be a woman by the name of Rosalie Molyneux. Severus did as asked and entered the lift and headed for the third floor.
Once on the third floor he came to another receptionist. He was told to sit in the waiting area until Mrs Molyneux came to meet him. Around five or so minutes later a blonde hair woman in her forties came out to meet him.
"Severus Snape," greeted Severus.
"Rosalie Molyneux," came her reply.
"French?" guessed Severus.
"Yes," she smiled. "Follow me please," said Mrs Molyneux gesturing towards a testing room down the corridor. Once inside she sat down at a desk in the otherwise empty room. Severus sat in front of it and waited for her to start. She produced a file and considered it for awhile.
"First I would like to thank you for taking an interest in becoming a qualified instructor. I need to ask you some questions though is that okay?"
"Of course."
"It says here you were tried in November of 1980 for numerous accounts of being a Death Eater, dark activities and numerous murders," said Mrs Molyneux with a frown and a questioning glance.
"I was indeed tried. I was proven innocent on all accounts as you know from the file."
"Of course, but you understand why it would cause concern no?"
"I do, but I can reassure you, I worked at Hogwarts between 1981-1990 and have never had any accusations brought against me, my safety record in potions is exemplary, Albus Dumbledore himself supported me at my trial and appointed me to the position."
"Worked? And what was your reason for your cease in employment."
"Personal reasons."
"Such as?"
"I' am looking after my son."
"And you didn't do this before?" said Mrs Molyneux with a questioning glance.
"I didn't know he existed until a few months ago, I recently became his primary care giver, to ensure all his needs were met I asked for a leave of absence, Dumbledore my employer granted it and expects me back at my post in 1992."
"I see," said Mrs Molyneux before she sat in thought. "And why do you want to become an instructor?"
"My son is a member. He will be entering the tournament. I already tutor him and wanted to train him for the tournament."
"And how old is your son?"
"He is eight years old."
"I see, and what sort of a relationship do you have with him?"
"We get along very well and are very close. I fail to see how this is relevant though."
"You wish to work with children, I' am merely trying to assess your character, the fact you care for your son helps, now what do you think of children in general?"
Severus had to bite bark a snarl and the words he wanted to say. Something along the lines of using the brats in potions ingredients. He didn't though and said, "I have maintained a professional relationship with the students I have taught in the past, if I didn't like children to some degree then I wouldn't be a teacher."
"I see, well I need to discuss some things with my boss, please wait here while I do," said Mrs Molyneux before she departed. Severus sat with his arms crossed. His past always had to come up didn't it. He had no doubts that Mrs Molyneux and her boss were discussing his character. Around ten minutes later Mrs Molyneux returned with a stout grey haired man who looked to be in his sixties.
"Lord Matheus Claymore chairman of BNYDA," greeted Lord Claymore.
"Chairman?"
"Yes I approve all the instructors in person. I must say I and Rosalie were very curious when the Ministry provided us with your file. We of course had our concerns but Dumbledore's support goes a long way, your exemplary teaching record also helps a lot."
"That is reassuring," answered Severus.
"Well we already have your OWL and NEWT scores as well as your healing qualifications which are very impressive, that was quite some time ago though, perhaps you would indulge us in a demonstration of your abilities in defence?"
"What would you like to see?" asked Severus. Severus was then put through a number of practical sessions. His dodging and duelling abilities were tested as well as his defensive and offensive skills. They put him through all the shields he knew, curses and counter curses, hexes and jinxes, nonverbal spells, even his Patronus charm. By the end Severus was quite smug. By the impressed expressions on both Lord Claymore and Mrs Molyneux faces he knew he had passed.
"I must say your defensive knowledge is very extensive. It is a shame you will only be tutoring your son and his friend but I understand as you say that your time is very limited with your brewing, lessons and caring for your son. I look forward to when he competes though," said Lord Claymore.
"I'm sure he will do very well," answered Severus confidently.
"Well I think I have seen enough, I will approve your application, you should get the written approval in a few days time," said Lord Claymore shaking Severus's hand.
"Thank you."
"Well, see you at the tournament."
"Indeed good day," spoke Severus before he departed to meet up with Alex and the Miles's.
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Author's Notes:
I thought it would be cool if Alex could have someone to join him in his lessons. Who other than his best mate Sebastian? Just a note on the lessons and training though. Alex and Sebastian are not going to become super strong overnight. The lessons, especially learning to do spells and magic is going to be hard and tiring.
Moving on, as many will have realised, Alex (Harry) did not get his Holy 11inch Phoenix feather wand, i.e. the brother wand to Voldemort's. The reasons for this are quite simple, for one I' am absolutely bored with reading Olivander give the usual speech on Harry's wand. On a more serious point, I believe Alex's experiences with Severus and blood ritual have changed him, so much so that his magic is not a match for the wand he would have been destined for. There are some good reasons for his wand. Here is extract from Harry Potter Wiki on Hawthorn wood.
"Hawthorn wands may be particularly suited to healing magic, but they are also adept at curses, and it has been generally observed that the hawthorn wand seems most at home with a conflicted nature, or with a witch or wizard passing through a period of turmoil.
Hawthorn is not easy to master, however, and one should only ever consider placing a hawthorn wand in the hands of a witch or wizard of proven talent, or the consequences might be dangerous. Hawthorn wands have a notable peculiarity: their spells can, when badly handled, backfire." – Harry Potter Wiki.
As you know, Alex has already started to take an interest in healing magic as he reads about it a lot and is interested in it for his potions. Similarly he has been through quite a lot of turmoil in his life and still is to an extent. Lastly he is quite gifted and will most likely one day be quite a powerful wizard.
As for the core, Dragon Heartstring is the most powerful of the three Olivander deals with. Here is another extract.
"As a rule, dragon heartstrings produce wands with the most power, and which are capable of the most flamboyant spells. Dragon wands tend to learn more quickly than other types. While they can change allegiance if won from their original master, they always bond strongly with the current owner. The dragon wand tends to be easiest to turn to the Dark Arts, though it will not incline that way of its own accord." – Harry Potter Wiki.
Sebastian's wand is also quite interesting. Here is what Harry Potter Wiki has to say about the wand wood.
"The sycamore makes a questing wand, eager for new experience and losing brilliance if engaged in mundane activities. It is a quirk of these handsome wands that they may combust if allowed to become 'bored,' and many witches and wizards, settling down into middle age, are disconcerted to find their trusty wand bursting into flame in their hand as they ask it, one more time, to fetch their slippers.
As may be deduced, the sycamore's ideal owner is curious, vital and adventurous, and when paired with such an owner, it demonstrates a capacity to learn and adapt that earns it a rightful place among the world's most highly-prized wand woods" – Harry Potter Wiki.
Sebastian is quite a curious character that seeks adventure and new things. It seems only right that he should have a wand with Sycamore wood. I hope you liked the chapter. Please let me know what you thought of it. Next chapter Training and Tutoring will introduce the new schedule.
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