Previously on Making The First Move: Chapter 70
"I'll go you one better," offered Terry. "Let's have a last brandy as we discuss Site 19, Section 2 in the Ajman Emirate then have a few hours of rest. 4:30 am will be here before you know it."
Anthony shared a thought. "Even before that Terry. Lend me a quill and some parchment. I want to write a note to Harry which we will all sign then we can have a drink and discuss particulars. I'll send the letter to Harry's desk at the Ministry. He'll get it tomorrow."
"Good idea." Terry replied as he accio'd the quill, ink and parchment. Tell Harry we'll see him in a year."
Hey Boss:
Michael, Terry and I want to say farewell. We're not going to say goodbye because with any luck we'll be back through London in a year or two.
Michael, Terry and I appreciate all you've done for us, for always being there for everyone with no thought about yourself.
You were a hero to the Wizarding World as a teenager, but you'll always be a hero to us. Be sure to keep an eye on those blighters Randy and Justin or they'll take over the Ministry.
Thank you for everything.
Anthony
Harry:
That goes for us too. Thank you for being a stand up wizard. We'll see you when we see you.
Michael
Terry.
Anthony looked over the letter, grabbed an envelope then headed to the small Owlery on the first floor.
"Pour that brandy. I'll be right back."
/*/
When Anthony returned, the three mates sipped a few drinks then turned in for the night.
"Goodnight all. Tomorrow we start our journey." Michael announced.
"Night mates. Let Merlin protect us all." Added Anthony.
"Time for us to show them what The Ravenclaw Boys can do. Good luck to us."
/**/
At 4:30 am on Monday 12 September 2011, Michael Corner, Anthony Goldstein and Terry Boot otherwise known as the Ravenclaw Boys picked up the portkeys that would take them into their future. All three were nervous over what would come next but chuffed to be stepping into a fantastic adventure.
If one had been listening between 4:35 and 4.40 they might have heard the soft mutterings of three wizards saying goodbye to London.
/
Making The First Move: Chapter 71
"Another fine Monday," remarked Severus as he leaned over to leave a kiss on the side of Hermione's head. "Sebastian is still sleeping love. Owl if you need me. I'm meeting with a representative of St Mungo's this morning. I think they might be ready to come aboard as a client."
"Good morning Sev. Sounds like some handsome wizard woke in fine spirits this morning. Ah! St Mungo's has finally come around. After all this time, I wonder why."
"I am in fine spirits because I woke up next to you and our daughter. As far as St Mungo's finally coming onboard, I believe all the discoveries and patents we have registered have caught their interest. There is nothing better than having your own immediate source of medicinal products. It doesn't hurt that Lucius has been talking us up to the St Mungo's Board."
Hermione got out of bed to use the bathroom calling back over her shoulder. "Be very careful when taking favors from Lucius Malfoy. He may have it in mind to secure his favor in exchange for our unborn daughter."
Severus laughed out loud. "There she is witches and wizards of Great Warley. My lovely wife is barking at the moon this early in the morning. Lucius may be a powerful wizard, but he isn't a seer. If he wanted something in exchange for talking us up to the Board, it couldn't be something of which he is not aware."
"I know that wanker. I was just wondering if you knew that." Hermione replied with a chuckle. "Sebbie and I are going to London today. There are some things I want to purchase. I might stop in to S & L just to keep the wankers on their toes. I'll just scare them into thinking I might be coming back to work."
"Hmph. I don't think you'll scare any of them unless of course you're going to tell them about the pregnancy and they remember your temperament while you were carrying Sebastian."
Hermione smiled as she washed her hands. "So we're going there are we Mr. Snape? If I do mention our current pregnancy, the only thing they will be thinking is you should keep that trouser snake in your pants."
Severus, who was sitting on the bed putting on his shoes laughed like a bastard. "Well that's unlikely to happen so they can be as scared as they like. Alright my darling, I'm off. If you can manage, I'd like you to pick up some boxers while you're in Diagon Alley. You know, The things that cover my trouser snake. I love you."
"I love you too Sev. Have a good day."
/*/
Hermione laid back down and pulled the covers up to her shoulder but it was for nothing. Sebbie was calling.
"Blast your loud father. It's barely 7:00 am. Coming love."
Sebbie was sitting up in bed. "Hi mum. I heard you and daddy laughing."
Hermione thought there she was blaming Severus for being loud but Sebbie had heard them both. She was obviously as loud as her wanker husband.
"I'm sorry mummy and daddy woke you, but it's very early. Come lie down with mum in the big bed."
"I like that mum. The big bed is so soft, but I did bad mum. I need a change. I'm all wet."
Hermione felt Sebbie's pajamas. They were wet. He had soiled himself. Taking Sebbie by the hands, Hermione looked her son in the eyes. "You're five years old Sebbie. You know how to use the toilet. When you need a pee, go pee."
Looking crestfallen, Sebbie gave Hermione an unexpected reply. "Yes mum. I'm sorry. I woke up knowing I needed to pee, but it was too quick for me. The pee came out before I could get out of bed."
Hermione smiled at her mini Severus pulling him into a hug. "Accidents happen. Sometimes that pee can be very quick. I think we will refrain from excessive drinking after dinner. That should remedy that. Come on. Let mum get you washed and changed. I'll clean up in here. You go put your wet clothes in the dirty clothes bin. I'll be right there."
"Okay mum. Are you going to tell daddy?"
Of course she was going to mention it to Severus, but it wasn't something she wanted her son to worry about so she answered diplomatically. "Nothing to worry about love. It was an accident. Let's get you into the tub."
/*/
By the time Sebbie was out of the bath and dressed, it was coming up on 9:00. Hermione comically sniffed Sebbie all over his body. "You smell better than daddy."
A giggling Sebbie told Hermione that sniffing him was funny. Hermione gave him a quick tickle before leading him into her and Severus' bedroom. Summoning her wand, Hermione did a few swish and flicks to freshen and make up the bed.
"Mum is going to take a shower. Lie here until I'm finished then we'll have breakfast. We are going back to the shops today, after which, we might stop by daddy's work to say hello to everyone."
Sebbie turned to Hermione with a look of concern on his face. "Is today Monday mum?"
As soon as Sebbie asked the question, Hermione realized what her astute five year old meant. Mondays at S & L were a bit manic. It wouldn't be productive for her and Sebbie to barge in expecting everyone to drop everything to entertain them.
"Yes love. Today is Monday."
"Daddy says Monday is a busy day at the shop. Papa David and Uncle Neville might not have time to see us."
Hermione just shook her head. Her little wizard was young enough to have an accident in bed, but astute enough to remember what his dad said about Mondays at the shop.
Beaming, she complimented Sebbie. "You are very smart young Mr. Snape. Daddy has mentioned several times how busy the shop gets on Monday. Our plans will have to change a bit. We'll still go to Diagon Alley, but instead of going to daddy's work we'll stop in Open Books so mum can look over the new arrivals."
"I like books mum. Will you buy me a book? Daddy likes it when I read to him."
A wave of love flashed through Hermione. Her son wanted a new book he could read to Severus even though it was still down to him sounding out words more than reading. Either way, both she and Severus wanted their son to have a high interest in learning.
"Alright love. It's settled. We'll visit the book store to see what they have for young wizards. I'll be quick."
Sebbie laid quietly on the big bed as he'd been told waiting for Hermione to finish thinking about the new books he would be getting.
/*/
As was his usual habit, Harry was in early on Monday to set up for the Monday morning meeting with his teams. Not in the greatest of moods, he began the process of replicating information he would be passing out when a piece of mail appeared and fluttered down on his desk.
Picking up the envelope, Harry sighed. "I haven't even gotten my arse in the chair good and something already needs my attention."
Harry turned the envelope over in his hand and began more muttering as he opened the message. "Lazy bastard couldn't even be bothered to address it correctly."
The muttering stopped when Harry glanced at the signature(s). He broke out in a smile. His boys hadn't forgotten to say goodbye. As Harry read the short message, the morning seemed a little brighter.
Harry read the message then read it again before slipping it into his top drawer. He'd be sure to show it around after he made the biggest announcement of the morning, Anthony Goldstein had turned in his resignation to become a Cursebreaker. A wave of, Harry didn't know if it was nostalgia or disappointment, washed over him. He'd lost his second in command through no fault of his own six years ago. Now, he'd lost another of his top Aurors to the exciting world of cursebreaking. In the back of his mind, Harry wondered if he was doing something wrong. Pulling the message out of the drawer and reading it for the third time, Harry shook his head. He wasn't doing anything wrong. The world had simply shifted and would continue to shift. This thought brought to mind an old muggle saying, tuck and roll. All he could do was tuck in his head and roll with the shifts.
The letter also reminded Harry there was paperwork regarding Anthony's resignation he needed to get into the system. He couldn't even bring another witch or wizard to upper level until that was done. Harry completed the forms and got them sent off straightaway.
Harry sighed. Even though he had come to terms with the fact Anthony chose to leave, he would have liked to give his mate a proper send off. Anthony was well regarded and respected throughout London and more. There would probably be a great many people wondering why Harry hadn't.
The letter went back into the top drawer for the second time and Harry went back to replicating. When he finished, Harry checked his Wonder Wizard Watch. It was only 7:15. There was more than enough time for him to get tea and a muffin from Food Services. Harry was there and back in less than ten minutes. However, in that ten minutes the usual suspects had made it to his office.
"Good morning Harry."
"Morning boss."
"Morning Harry."
Harry glanced around at what was left of top team one.
"Why are you all in my office this early? Don't you have things to review, edit, file? The meeting doesn't start for another thirty minutes." Holding up his muffin, Harry growled that he wanted to have his breakfast in peace.
Randy smiled at his irate boss. "We've all seen your table manners. Go ahead and eat. Our stomachs can take it."
Harry smiled at the wizard most likely to act like Anthony. "Watch it Jordan or you'll find your next duty in the wilds of Wales. Go back to your desks until 8:00. I want to shove this muffin down my throat in peace."
Justin was quick to reply. "We want to get this meeting started. Randy, Ernie and myself want to hear….."
Harry cut him off. "You'll hear about what there is to hear about at 8:00 am. Now get out so I can have my breakfast."
All three wizards jumped up. Even though their boss was acting normal, they knew this was not the morning to push the volatile wizard.
"We'll go, but we'll be back," teased Randy. "I'll just say this Harry. Chin up. You still have us."
Leaning back in his chair, Harry smiled at his know it all Auror gesturing for all three to come back and sit down before opening his desk drawer. Pulling out the envelope, Harry handed it to Randy who was closest.
"Anthony has left us to pursue other things. We've lost a good wizard, but, as you said, I still have you. We might as well get this Monday started."
/*/
Randy read the message had a laugh over Anthony's last sentence then passed it to Justin who read it then passed it to a very surprised Ernie.
"What's this? So it's really true? AG has turned in his notice to go off cursebreaking with Michael and Terry. I thought Justin and Randy were having me on. He left just like that?" Ernie questioned, snapping his fingers. "Bloody bloke didn't even give us enough time to have a party. I'd say I'll be having words with Anthony, but that isn't even possible. See you in a year or two, as if."
Harry put his hand out for the envelope and commented in a soft, solemn voice.
"Anthony's move has surprised us all. However, life doesn't stand still because we want it to. If we know anything, we knew he wasn't as happy as he should have been."
"Not happy? What does that even mean? Anthony isn't some witch who feels aggrieved if something goes wrong. He is, was, an Auror. I didn't know he was unhappy. He was on a top team in an excellent paying position at the bloody Ministry of Magic. What's there to not be happy about? I wish I had known. Perhaps we could have talked it out." Ernie added ending his comments with a sigh."
Randy and Justin glanced at each other before Randy tried to set the record straight.
"We are all mates. If Anthony wanted us to know how he was feeling, he would have told us straight out…."
Harry, who was finished with his muffin chose that moment to interject. "Don't worry yourself Ernie. I had suspicions but nothing solid until Saturday night when Anthony and I were talking. His business is his business so I won't get into it. I'll end this discussion by saying, cursebreaking is what he wants to try. He's gone from our team and the Ministry. Let's wish him, Michael and Terry well and move on. I'll need suggestions about who we'll be adding to top team."
Justin nodded. "Luckily for us, there are several well trained juniors who would fit right in with us. And contrary to what Anthony implied, Randy and I will not try to take over the Ministry... unless it becomes necessary."
Randy, Justin and Harry had a laugh while Ernie sat there looking slightly bewildered.
/*/
When he landed at S&L, Severus was not surprised to see Allen with a clipboard in his hand looking over a shipment.
"Good morning Severus."
"Good morning Allen. How is everything at Reese & Wilson Florarium?"
As the words were coming out of his mouth, Severus remembered how hard David and Allen fought to get a name change for Florae. All in all, it hadn't been a difficult decision for him and Neville. David and Allen had been doing a magnificent job. They should be allowed to have whatever name they chose, within reason. Reese & Wilson Florarium had been within reason.
"All is well Severus. David and I have had to enlarge the Golden Mandrake quarters once again. They are so prolific. We are in the process of planning an auction before cold weather sets in. After a bit of due diligence on our part, the invitations are ready to be sent to selected Brewers and Herbologists. As always, a full report will be left on yours and Neville's desk."
"Well done Mr. Wilson. I look forward to reading the report. Neville and I will be away from the office this morning but should be back before noon."
"Alright Severus. Thank you for letting me know. I'll advise David who will also be offsite this morning following a lead on an abandoned shipment of Mimosa Pudica down at the docks. Also, thank you for inviting Valera and me to Hermione's birthday party. It was lovely. I believe you surprised your wife almost to a faint."
Severus smiled at Allen. "You are quite right. First time ever. From here, Hermione will forever be on her guard. I think I won't ever be able to surprise her that way again. It will be a boon for us and certain future endeavors if David does find some Mimosa Pudica. Good work."
"I agree about Hermione. The woman doesn't normally miss a thing." Allen remarked, chuckling as he spoke."
Allen's comments put another smile on Severus' face. "Have a good day Allen."
"You do the same Severus."
/*/
Neville shouted out good morning when Severus passed his office. He also complimented his partner on getting one past Hermione. Severus said good morning but didn't reply to the comment about Hermione's surprise party. Instead, he asked if Neville was ready for their meeting with the St Mungo's Board.
"Of course." Neville replied, following Severus to his office. "This has been a long time coming, but I believe we will see a positive outcome."
"I believe that as well Neville. Mr. Gables, Mr. White and Mr. Lively are aware of what this means. I'm sure they'll dazzle us with some new discovery before the week is over. In addition, Allen disclosed we might be acquiring some Mimosa Pudica. If we do, the acquisition couldn't come at a more convenient time."
While Severus was checking his case for everything they needed for the meeting, Neville sat down.
"Yes. David mentioned the Mimosa Pudica. I hope he is successful. When you have a free moment, I'd like us to sit down with Noah, Ethan and Austin to discuss adding at least one assistant for the lower level, especially on the off chance we do become sole supplier of medicinal products for St Mungo's."
Severus stopped what he was doing to glance at Neville. "Has any of them mentioned needing an assistant?"
"No Severus. No one has asked for an assistant, and I don't think they will. However, isn't it up to us to see that our brilliant Development, Brewing and Research Heads are fully equipped with everything they need? In my opinion, they need someone to take care of the grunt work while they concentrate on finding more brilliant discoveries."
Severus thought about it for several seconds. Neville had a point. His Heads would never ask thinking it would make them look weak. "Excellent idea Neville. Set a meeting before we leave for the bloody, upcoming seminar. The speakers had better have gold coming out of their arses. Who decides an important seminar such as this should be held over a weekend? Dolts and dimwits that's who."
Neville who was long used to Severus' fits of anger sat serenely waiting for him to finish spitting fire.
"My apologies Neville. Some things just rankle. Set an early morning meeting for Wednesday or Thursday. It's best if we catch our brilliant staff before they get their heads into their work. They can get awful cranky when pulled away for something as inconsequential as a meeting with the partners."
"Wednesday is the better day. I'll leave a note." Laughing, Neville headed for his office to write a quick message to Noah, Ethan and Austin and pick up his case. Sitting his case down by the door, Neville made a few steps to the front to beckon Franklin.
"Franklin my good wizard. Severus and I are off to a meeting. Please see that Noah, Ethan or Austin gets this note."
"Will do Neville. Have a productive meeting."
"Thank you. That is the plan."
Severus was waiting by the door without his usual frown.
It was time to go dazzle the St Mungo's Board.
/*/
Although Severus had advised her of what was what regarding Michael Corner, Hermione did a quick sweep of the area when she and Sebbie stepped through the courtyard into Diagon Alley. No Michael Corner. In fact, Diagon Alley seemed unusually empty.
Hermione had it set in her mind which shops she and Sebbie would visit. As they walked down the street, The Shop for Wizards which was near the top of the Alley was on the list. Severus wanted something to cover his trouser snake and this was the perfect place. She and Sebbie were in and out within ten minutes with several pairs of boxers, a pair of pajamas for Severus and Sebbie and several other small items. Their next stop was The Shoe Emporium where she purchased new shoes for Severus and Sebbie. Sebbie was excited.
"You bought me and daddy so many new things. We won't be able to wear them all."
Hermione ran a hand through Sebbie's hair. "I did purchase quite a few things for you and daddy, but I'm sure there'll be time to wear them. Big and small wizards like to be clean all the time."
Hopping from foot to foot, Sebbie replied. "Yes mum. Big and small wizards like to be clean. That's why I had to have a bath because I wasn't clean."
"Please stop jumping love. I don't want you to fall and hurt yourself."
Sebbie stop hopping around and made an out of the blue comment. "We might have to call daddy if we see that man. We'll have to go in the shop while daddy talks to him. Is he daddy's friend?"
Hermione knew immediately what man Sebbie meant. Her son didn't miss a trick. Yes, she had called Severus. Yes, Severus had insisted they go inside the shop while he spoke to Michael and no, Michael wasn't Severus' friend but it didn't have anything to do with her nosy son.
"Nothing for you to worry about Sebbie. We won't be seeing any man. Come along so we can get to the book shop before lunch. How would you like a ham and cheese sandwich with chips for lunch?"
"And a glass of juice. I want ham and cheese. Let's hurry to the book shop to see Mr. Jonas."
Hermione smiled as she tightened her grip on Sebbie's hand. The way to a wizard's heart is certainly through his stomach. "Alright young wizard, let's get to the book shop then to The Unwavering Wand."
/*/
The visit to the book shop wasn't as extended as Hermione thought it would be. Even though Mr. Jonas didn't really have much of a selection, Hermione found several interesting books for herself and two children's books. Sebbie proudly carried the sack with his two books, although he was quick to hand it to Hermione when they entered the restaurant.
When they finished lunch, Hermione told Sebbie they had one more stop at the grocer. Sebbie didn't care. He was out and about. He liked looking at all the sights. As they passed this one shop with lots of colorful twirling decorations and loads of bright colors, Sebbie stopped to point.
"Let's go there mum. Let's go there. WWW." He chanted.
Weasley's Wizard Wheezes. Of course it would grab the attention of a young wizard. It grabbed the attention of almost everyone who traveled Diagon Alley. That was not a shop for a five year old wizard.
"Although that shop has a lot of bright, lovely colors, it is not a shop for wizards your age. When you get older, you may visit."
Sebbie wanted to pull a pout but he didn't. He daddy often told him pouting wasn't something he cared his son to do. Papa David said the same thing. Uncle Neville never mentioned pouting at all. A little perturbed at not being allowed in the shop but without a pout, Sebbie expressed his feelings.
"I like that shop mum, but I'll only go when I'm six."
Laughing, Hermione explained what was what. "Six is still not old enough. Why not ask your daddy?"
"No mum. I'll ask daddy when I'm older than six. I'm tired mum."
"I am too love but I need a few things from the grocer. Tell you what. I'll choose what I need but ask to have it delivered. We'll be on our way home in no time."
"I think you'll be quick. I want to go home to look at my new books and pee."
"We don't want another accident." Hermione replied as she walked Sebbie into the shadows of the grocer shop and pulled out her wand. "I'll just spell that pee away so you won't have to worry. Hold still."
A quick urine spell away fixed the situation. Sebbie was amazed.
"From now on, you can use your wand on my pee. I won't have to do anything."
Hermione stopped walking and bent down to look Sebbie in the eye. "I used my wand to spell away your pee because it was sort of an emergency. You'll continue to pee in the toilet as you have been taught. Understand?"
Sebbie could tell he had upset his mother not by tone alone, but by her furrowed brow as well. "Sorry mum. I was just kidding. I'll pee and poop in the toilet… until there is an emergency."
Hermione sighed, mumbling. "Six more years until Hogwarts. I hope I can cope, and in seven months, we'll be starting all over again. Merlin give me strength."
His mum might be mumbling, but she wasn't frowning. Sebbie felt everything was okay. However, he kept his thoughts to himself while his mum ordered her groceries.
/*/
Severus and Neville returned to S & L in very chipper moods as did David. Severus and Neville had proven their worth to the wizards on the St Mungo's Board. Beginning October 1, 2011, they would start a six month trial being sole supplier of medicinal and herbal remedies to St Mungo's. The two partners were almost beaming.
"We've gotten our foot in the door Severus. A point we will be sure to share Wednesday morning when we meet with the prodigies."
Severus nodded at Neville. "I agree, however, I'd like us to share the news as soon as this afternoon. Let them have their lunches then we pounce. Mr. Gables and/or Mr. Wilson will probably have a working prototype by this evening. We won't even call a meeting. We'll just spring the news on them."
Neville left Severus' office chuckling. His partner had come so far.
/*/
David, who had scored an entire eighteen pod flat of four inch Mimosa Pudica plants that had been abandoned at the entry port was humming as he tended to his newest charges. Because they had sat abandoned for over twenty four hours, David had to work quickly as the Shame plant was as delicate as it was rare. After rearranging a few things and setting the lighting and temperature, David pruned what needed to be pruned before setting the prized plants in their forever home.
Allen, who was practically over David's shoulder was as excited as David. For only paying an abandonment fee, they were now the proud owners of one of the rarest flowering plants with medicinal properties. Like the Mandrake, every part of the plant could be used for one purpose or another."
"Yes lad. We have struck gold. I have left an update on the partners desks. I think they will be pleased."
Allen laughed out loud as he offered a bit of cheek. "We should probably keep our ears open for the stampede when Noah, Ethan and Austin find out what we have."
"Yes, there's that." David replied. "One caution. As you and I know, the Pudica is very sensitive. Until we have the plants stabilized, I would prefer only you or I enter their enclosure. Additionally, there will not be any touching, by anyone. Please hang a sign clearly stating those facts."
Drawing his wand, Allen summoned a large piece of wrapping paper that he spelled into a hard back board. Taking care, he wrote David's message in the air then attached it to the board with several quick flicks.
"Is this sufficient David?"
NEW ADDITION: MIMOSA PUDICA ENCLOSURE
Rare Plant currently being stabilized
Extremely Sensitive to changes in air, temperature and light
Do not enter the enclosure
Do not open the enclosure
Thank you.
David/Allen
David glanced at the sign. "That's perfect Allen. Please hang it where it is most visible. Now let's hope no one feels the need to challenge our instructions."
Allen smiled as he hung the sign understanding that the no one David referred to was Severus Snape.