Part 2:
The First Day of School:
Severus and Septina sat at one of the desks, talking to Lucius and Narcissa as they waited for their potions professor. James and Remus entered the room and stopped upon seeing them, startled. Sirius looked over their shoulders and groaned.
"Is there a reason you've chosen to block my doorway, gentlemen?" Professor Arabella Figg asked.
"Yes. Lost first years." Sirius said, pointing towards the Snapes once the three had moved out of her way.
Professor Figg looked at the two he was pointing to, a confused look on her face. It left when she recognized them. "Oh, no. They're supposed to be here. I believe that you two went to Durmstrang."
"That is quite correct, Professor Figg. We were there for two years." Severus said, studying her carefully with veiled eyes. Their new potions professor was not a young woman, nor was she old. In fact, she seemed to have that ageless aspect that Professor Dumbledore did. She was of medium height with white hair pulled back in a loose bun and merry eyes.
"Excellent." She said, moving to the front of the class. "Settle down everyone or I will show you slides of my cats and tell you how their vacations went."
Instantly, the room was quiet, the students hardly breathing. They knew from previous experience that she would do exactly what she had said.
With a twinkle in her eyes, she looked at the class. "My dears, I know that you have been on vacation for the last three months but how could you have forgotten the most important thing about my class? Surely you remember that I will not tolerate the ridiculous arrangement of sitting only with your house. Everyone, take your things and move to the back of the class, I will reseat you then."
Groaning, they did what she asked, not willing to risk watching her cat slides.
Professor Figg watched them as they slowly moved, a half smile on her face. She knew it irked her students but she was not going to stand for any house rivalry nonsense in her classroom. "You will be pared off with a student of my random choosing for the next nine weeks. Or until I decide to change you for my own purposes. This means you will work together, share supplies, and generally be responsible for each other." She then began to pair people off by randomly picking students off her class list.
"Sirius Black and Narcissa Alway."
The two glared at each other and moved reluctantly towards their assigned seats.
"Remus Lupin and Annalise Scarlet."
"Gilderoy Lockhart and Septina Snape."
She grimaced slightly, moving towards the foppish young man.
"Lily Evans and Lucius Malfoy."
Lily paled before walking resolutely towards the spiteful boy.
"James Potter and Kali Liberty."
"Peter Pettigrew and Elia Xenon."
"Rosslea Decker and Severus Snape."
Severus moved towards his partner, a shy redhead. He noticed that he was behind his sister.
Professor Figg waited for a moment, letting the students settle down. She noticed that they were extremely uncomfortable they were now. "Don't worry, children, you'll get used to it. Now, let's see how much you remember from last year." She passed out her review quiz, again ignoring the groans of the students. "You will have all period to complete. When you and your partner have finished, you may leave."
She waited until the quills were inked before turning the dragon timer on. "Begin."
The class opened their scrolls and started to read the questions. After a moment, they settled down.
The twins rolled their eyes in exasperation at the questions and were the first ones to finish their test. For the rest of the class, they stared up at the ceiling, wondering how they were to survive this year.
Lily finished her question and rolled up the scroll, reading the next one. As she contemplated her answer, she glanced around the room to see how her housemates were doing. She saw, with some surprise that the twins had finished with their test and were currently staring up into space. Quickly, she looked down before they caught her looking. Who knew what they might do to her-even though she was paired with one of their housemates.
By the time the bell had rung, less than half the class had completed the review. Professor Figg clicked her tongue in teasing reproach as she collected them. "Well, it looks like we will be spending a few days on review." She commented, eliciting protesting groans.
As the class filed out, she called the Snapes to her desk. "I couldn't help but notice that you weren't working on the review test. Did you find the questions to difficult?"
"No, professor. We already learned this at Durmstrang." Severus explained, hiding his irritation with effort.
"Really?" The professor obviously didn't believe that but let it go. "Let me get you a pass for your next class. Transfiguration?"
"Yes," Septina said. She accepted the passes and together they went out the door.
Professor Figg watched them go, torn. It was obvious, at least to her, that they were trying to make up for something. But the test would reveal the truth to her, Slytherin though the children may be. She started to read Severus' but paused half-way through in surprise. Picking up his sister's, she felt her breath leave her body. Though their answers were not identical, they had answered every question correctly so far.
The tests fell to the floor as she left the lab, "Professor Dumbledore!" She cried as she entered the office, relieved to see him alone.
"It is Albus, Arabella." He gently chided her, blue eyes twinkling merrily. "Tea?"
Dropping into the empty chair that was always in front of his desk, she shakily accepted the proffered cup. "I cannot teach those two."
Albus regarded her thoughtfully, knowing exactly who she was referring to. "Why not, my dear? They are children, as are all of our students."
"Those aren't just any children, Albus." She argued. "I just gave my class a test to see what they remembered from last year, to see how far back I must go in review. The Snapes finished before anyone else and correctly answered the questions-even the ones we won't be addressing until the fourth year begins. I had not expected their abilities to be so high. I do not have the ability to engage them."
He munched on a crumpet, watching her. "You knew who their mother was before they came."
"I did. But knowing logically is different from knowing because of what you've learned. Besides, she never showed half the capacity of the two until much later in school." She pointed out, sipping her tea. "I find it hard to believe that Selena Snape would teach her children potions just because she's one of the reigning potions masters. And before you mention Durmstrang, their potions teacher is a joke. He does not have a firm grasp on potions nor does he have the ability to teach it well."
"Nevertheless, they must be taught and you are the finest potions teacher in our known world."
She smiled, accepting the compliment. "But I am no potions master. And that is what those two need."
"Do you want to know what I think, Arabella? I don't think that's the last thing they need." Albus mused thoughtfully. Before she could ask what he meant, Albus dismissed her.
Severus and Septina walked into transfiguration class. They handed Professor McGonagal their pass and sat down near the front, ignoring the curious stares of their classmates. As they sat down at lunch, Lucius asked them what Professor Figg had wanted with them.
"Nothing. She was just concerned about our test." Septina answered, looking for someone among the teachers.
"The test? Why?" He asked, peeling an orange.
Severus sighed, frustrated. "I'm sure that it escaped your limited attention span because it didn't focus solely on you but we finished the test before anyone else. That stuff was just so easy, I almost fell asleep. Probably would have, except for the fact that I was sitting by a Gryffindor. Merlyn only knows what they would've done to me."
Lucius chewed thoughtfully, not offended by his cousins words. He moved over to let Narcissa join them. "Just how smart are you?"
"We took top honors in all of our classes." Severus said, shrugging his shoulders. He was unwilling to admit it, but he wasn't sure where this line of questioning was going to lead. "In fact, we were placed in special, advanced classes."
"Bragging, Snape?" A familiar, but hated voice, asked. Sirius had stopped behind them on his way out the door.
Severus' eyebrow rose in query. "Why would I waste my breath bragging? I made a statement of fact." He paused a moment, letting the full of his black eyes rest upon Sirius'. "Bragging is a common thing to do. But then, you understand common, don't you, Black?"
Narcissa lazily glanced up at her potions partner. "I thought Gryffindors were known for courage, not lack of direction. Obviously, we believe wrong. Gryffindor shouldn't have a proud lion as its mascot but a dodo bird-to signify its unique talents."
"Better be careful, Black. Someone may accuse you of consorting with the enemy." Lucius commented.
"Something you have experience with?" He shot back.
"Siri," Remus called softly, warning his friend with his eyes. "We need to see Professor McGonagal, remember?"
Sirius stepped back, controlling himself with visible effort. "Right. This is far from over." He warned.
"Perish the thought." Someone from the far end of their table muttered.
With one last, hateful look at the four, Sirius moved with his friends towards the door. His back was stiff with anger and, to a discerning eye, hurt.
"Where's your leash?" Septina muttered, her voice was quiet but reached around the room. The room erupted into a confusion of noise, ranging from laughter to scandalized cries of foul.
Though the four Marauders stiffened, they continued to walk out the door. The dignity of their exit silenced the room. Never had the occupants of the room seen the four walk away from such a blatant insult.
Later, in front of a fire, they discussed what happened-focusing mainly on Black's surprising reticence. "What possessed you to say such a thing to him?"
"I couldn't stop the words, they just popped out of my mouth." Septina defended herself half heartedly. "You do realize that he'll find some way to get back at us."
"Let him try. We are more than a match for him." He stated, conjuring two mugs of warm cocoa. It was his own special blend.
"But we're supposed to remain low key until further notice." She said, accepting the mug.
"I won't start anything. But I won't walk away from anything he initiates." He paused, studying her. "And if you were being honest with yourself, you wouldn't either."
Septina reluctantly nodded, tilting her head to the side. "True." They were silent, slowly sipping and listening to the logs crack as the fire devoured them. "What do you think?"
"About the school or what's to come?" She just looked at him, exasperated. "The school is fine, though a bit old-fashioned with these intense house competitions. I understand friendly competition, but the way Hogwarts goes at it, it breeds bigotry and hatred. Why don't they see that?"
"Probably because all the houses, even Slytherin house, work so well together. The very contradictory nature of house loyalties is hidden behind the mask of efficiency. Besides, people see what they want to see." Septina mused, resting her head against the back of the couch.
"Should've known you would pick up on it. As for what is to come, I'd say we need to be prepared for anything."
"No need to tell me twice." She stared into her mug, a forlorn expression on her face.
"What is it?" Severus asked, putting his mug down to face her.
"I don't know, just wondering what might've been if things were different."
He nodded in perfect understanding. "Wanted to be in Ravenclaw too?"
"Yes." Her head nodded vigorously. "I don't know if it's you projecting what you feel or if I honestly sense something. But there's something about this place that fills me with fear."
"The house reeks of Voldemort. His presence lives here, it exerts his will upon those who come here. A sort of living imperio." Severus said, picking up his drink to finish it off. After a moment, he stretched and yawned. He put the empty mug down and offered his hand to her. She took it with a tired smile. With a simple gesture, she waved and the mugs disappeared. "Good night, Septina."
"Night, Severus." They parted at the bottom of the stairs.
One Month Later:
Septina resisted the urge to strangle her partner. Gilderoy Lockhart was the most incompetent person she had ever had the misfortune to meet. He had managed to foul up their potion for the third time and she had only turned her back for a moment. She just knew that this detention was going to last all eternity. 'Stupid wizard, fouling up one of the most basic spells.' Many delightful thoughts on how to torture the man popped into her mind as she cleaned the mess up and began again.
They were serving a detention to find a cure for the constant hiccups their botched up potion had inflicted upon their class. She sighed and looked around, a slight sneer formed on her face when she noticed that Potter and Black standing in the door, watching them anxiously. 'What? Do they honestly think that I am going to hurt poor, defenseless Lockhart?' She snorted faintly, turning back to her partner. 'The man's already got quite a defense system with his potions ability.'
"Is it supposed to do that?" Gilderoy asked worried. He watched the cauldron as it bubbled furiously.
Her black eyes widened. "No, you fool! What part of don't let it boil don't you understand!?!" Whipping out her wand, she contained the mess right before it exploded.
"Good thing you did that. That green goop would've ruined my hair." He patted his blond hair, reassuring himself that it was still there.
"And what a pity that would've been." Her words were quietly sarcastic.
Gilderoy nodded with a benevolent smile. "I am so glad that you understand the importance of maintaining ones appearance."
Clenching her hands tightly together, she recited the motto of Slytherin house. 'Survival above all else,' she chanted. Grabbing the cauldron, she thrust it into his hands. "Clean this up carefully. Make sure that all of the goop is cleaned out, it might decide to get into the water and ruin your hair." She said, hiding a smile. If anything would make Lockhart take extra special care of cleansing the cauldron, it was a threat to his precious looks. "Once you're done, just stay over there and watch. We've wasted enough time already."
With a frightened look at the cauldron, Gilderoy did what she asked without question. In just a few moments, they were done. With the faintest of smiles on her face, she bottled the potion. Professor Figg flooed into the room. "Done, my dears?"
Septina nodded and handed her the bottle. She packed her bag and slung it over her shoulder. "I've got to go, I promised Severus I'd help him practice flying. Black, Potter. As you can see, Lockhart has not been hurt. And they say we Slytherins have evil minds."
"No. We say that Slytherins are evil incarnate-especially when they happen to be Snapes." Black commented, watching her as she started down the hall. Though her back stiffened and her hand moved to her wand, she walked off quickly.
"That was pushing it, even with your famous luck, Sirius." James commented, shaking his head.
"I don't think so. Those two are up to something. I just wish I could figure out what it is."
"Is it even remotely possible that they aren't up to anything?" Remus asked quietly, joining them as he exited one of the classrooms.
"No. They are is Slytherin for a reason." The trio walked towards Gryffindor tower, followed by Gilderoy.
"Oh, come on. Septina isn't bad." Gilderoy spoke up, reminding them of his presence as they walked into the tower. "She appreciates good hair."
Though they tried valiantly, they couldn't stop their laughter. "Of course. An appreciation for appearances is the best way to tell if someone has malice on their minds. It's a great personality trait." Peter deadpanned, hearing his words as the four entered the common room.
"Exactly." He nodded. "I'm so glad that you can see that."
The four friends exchanged looks, as if to say 'is he really that dense?' Peter stood up from the chair he had been sitting on, intent on going to their dorm room. Sirius, Remus, and James followed him up as Gilderoy made his way down the hall towards one of the other rooms.
"You know, at the risk of sounding like a traitor, I almost feel sorry for the Slytherins. They are at the mercy of Professor Figg's edict on house rivalries." Remus commented, sitting in front of the window.
"I agree with you on that. It's bad enough that I dueled him last week." James shuddered, remembering one of the curses that Gilderoy had lobbed at him.
"Oh, admit it, James. You loved having that streak of pink and puce hair." Peter said, sitting on the floor surrounded by papers.
James' only response was to smack Peter with a pillow.
Christmas Break:
Septina dropped her books onto the floor. She fell onto her bed at the end of the day. Her face bore an odd expression for her: a smile.
"And what, if I may presume to ask, would make the Ice Princess smile?" Lucius asked. He was standing in the door, his arms folded across his chest.
She looked up at him, a slight frown on her face. She hated it when someone was able to sneak up on her-even if it was one of her own kind. "Ice Princess? Is that what they're calling me now?"
He took that as an invitation and walked in, sitting on the trunk at the foot of the bed. "It is one of the most decent. Not very flattering, wouldn't you say?"
"I think it suits me very nicely, Luc. As for the smile, I no longer have to work with that juvenile Lockhart."
Lucius shuddered. "Don't remind me. Hair boy is up for grabs once more. Is there anyway we can convince you to take him back?"
"Nothing on or in this world would convince me to work with that miscreant again." Septina said. She flipped over, leaning on her elbows. "How did such a creature like him end up in Gryffindor anyway?"
Lucius opened his mouth to answer but stopped when he saw Narcissa walk in. Even though he was right in her path, she looked through him and smiled frigidly at Septina. "Hello." Her voice was arctic.
"Narcissa, I'm sorry I left you to deal with those Gryffindors but what else was I supposed to do? Filch was coming and I was supposed to be serving detention with him." He pleaded with her. Life was unpleasant when she was angry with anyone in the house.
The Slytherin girl just walked to her closet and put away her heavy green robe. "I'm sorry, did you say something?" She said, a look of polite interest on her face.
"No. I was just wondering how Lockhart ended up in Gryffindor." Septina answered, sending a apologetic look towards her cousin. Though she didn't like him, she felt sorry for him. Narcissa was really his only friend in their house.
"All the other houses are to smart to take him." Narcissa explained. "That idiot should never have been allowed into Hogwarts. He's a menace."
"Who excels in memory charms, if gossip is to be believed." Severus added, joining them. In his hand was a book titled "The Theory Behind The Practice of Dark Arts."
Septina glanced at the book, then studied his face. "Is that from mother?"
"No. Mother's still angry with us for not making it into Ravenclaw." The word 'father' hung in the ominously in the air. She shivered, feeling a familiar coldness seep into her veins. "It's a Christmas present." He added, mentally adding 'more like a bribe'.
Lucius and Narcissa looked at the twins, feeling the unease in the room.
"I see." Septina softly said. "We're not going home, are we?"
His head shook. "And before you say anything, Lucius, you're not allowed to invite us to go with you. Mother has informed your parents that we are persona non grata."
"Just for being in Slytherin?" He couldn't believe it. Why was his aunt being so difficult? His family had been thrilled to pieces to have him in this house.
"And for starting off our first year here embroiled in a feud with Gryffindors." Severus elaborated, choosing his words with care. One never knew who was listening and what might be slipped to outsider ears.
Narcissa sat on her bed, shaking her head. "You poor, poor things. To be staying here for the holidays is bad enough, but you'll be staying with here with mudblood wizards and those who can't afford to go home."
The twins groaned, knowing who she was referring to. "Don't tell me, let me guess. Remus Lupin and Sirius Black are staying." Severus said, leaning against the wall.
"Yes." Narcissa said. "They couldn't go home this year and the Potters are going away, which means you may also have James Potter to deal with."
"Maybe we can spend the whole break in our rooms. After all, what is food and fresh air to us?" Septina suggested. Her face bore no trace of the good humor that had been there earlier.
"Hey, little mensas!" A voice called to them from the common room. "You have a visitor!"
The twins straightened their robes and ran a hand through their hair, trying to look presentable. As calmly as possible, they made their way downstairs. Only one thought was on their minds, who would be visiting them so close to the holiday break? As they entered the now empty room, they got their answer.
Standing in front of the warm fire was a dark figure swathed in a long, black cloak. He turned, the opaque eyes met theirs. A familiar trill of recognition ran through them. "Mensas?" The voice drawled lazily. "What an appropriate nickname for you two. Please, sit down. Be comfortable. My visit is one of pleasure, not pain."
They seated themselves on the couch cautiously, knowing how quickly pleasure could become pain in their visitor's mind. "How have you been, sir?"
"Ah, Severus, always so ready to cut through the festivities. Very well." The silken voice hardened, the common room was cut off from any disturbances. "I've been well, though a trifle, how shall I put this?, disturbed by your latest missive." They flinched at the reproach. "Come here, my seer."
She rose and knelt before him. Her face rested on his feet, eyes staring at nothing. The touch of his hand upon her head was a command to look at him. Black eyes, revealing all to her master, met his. "No need to be afraid of me. I have no intention of hurting you, not while I still need you."
"But I have failed you, lord." She humbly said, head still downcast though her eyes never left his.
"Have you now?" He asked, the hand stroking her hair moved down and grabbed her chin. The strong fingers forced her head up, holding it so that he could study her whole face. Though she flinched and Severus tensed, she didn't move. "And how did you do that?"
She was silent, feeling confused by his attitude. It was accepting of her limitations, why?
"You are merely my seer, not the one who can weave destiny. That rests upon another." The hand moved over her head again. "The time is not yet here. I can be patient." He then turned to face Severus, dismissing her from mind. "I hear that you have been experiencing some trouble with a few Gryffindors."
"Nothing I can't handle, lord." Severus agreed, kneeling in front of him.
Strong hands rested on his shoulders, squeezing painfully. "That is not what I told you to do, boy. I specifically ordered you to remain circumspect, to hold yourself aloof. To be above the common herd, did I not?"
"You did. But Black and his friends started it." Severus said, reveling none of his pain. "I make no excuses for my own actions, nor do I seek to justify myself."
"You must try harder to ignore them, Severus. I have great plans for you." The voice was harder than iron, full of power. "Plans that I will not tolerate any alterations on. Do you understand?"
And Severus knew that it didn't matter if he did or not. His lord would have his way.
The First Day of School:
Severus and Septina sat at one of the desks, talking to Lucius and Narcissa as they waited for their potions professor. James and Remus entered the room and stopped upon seeing them, startled. Sirius looked over their shoulders and groaned.
"Is there a reason you've chosen to block my doorway, gentlemen?" Professor Arabella Figg asked.
"Yes. Lost first years." Sirius said, pointing towards the Snapes once the three had moved out of her way.
Professor Figg looked at the two he was pointing to, a confused look on her face. It left when she recognized them. "Oh, no. They're supposed to be here. I believe that you two went to Durmstrang."
"That is quite correct, Professor Figg. We were there for two years." Severus said, studying her carefully with veiled eyes. Their new potions professor was not a young woman, nor was she old. In fact, she seemed to have that ageless aspect that Professor Dumbledore did. She was of medium height with white hair pulled back in a loose bun and merry eyes.
"Excellent." She said, moving to the front of the class. "Settle down everyone or I will show you slides of my cats and tell you how their vacations went."
Instantly, the room was quiet, the students hardly breathing. They knew from previous experience that she would do exactly what she had said.
With a twinkle in her eyes, she looked at the class. "My dears, I know that you have been on vacation for the last three months but how could you have forgotten the most important thing about my class? Surely you remember that I will not tolerate the ridiculous arrangement of sitting only with your house. Everyone, take your things and move to the back of the class, I will reseat you then."
Groaning, they did what she asked, not willing to risk watching her cat slides.
Professor Figg watched them as they slowly moved, a half smile on her face. She knew it irked her students but she was not going to stand for any house rivalry nonsense in her classroom. "You will be pared off with a student of my random choosing for the next nine weeks. Or until I decide to change you for my own purposes. This means you will work together, share supplies, and generally be responsible for each other." She then began to pair people off by randomly picking students off her class list.
"Sirius Black and Narcissa Alway."
The two glared at each other and moved reluctantly towards their assigned seats.
"Remus Lupin and Annalise Scarlet."
"Gilderoy Lockhart and Septina Snape."
She grimaced slightly, moving towards the foppish young man.
"Lily Evans and Lucius Malfoy."
Lily paled before walking resolutely towards the spiteful boy.
"James Potter and Kali Liberty."
"Peter Pettigrew and Elia Xenon."
"Rosslea Decker and Severus Snape."
Severus moved towards his partner, a shy redhead. He noticed that he was behind his sister.
Professor Figg waited for a moment, letting the students settle down. She noticed that they were extremely uncomfortable they were now. "Don't worry, children, you'll get used to it. Now, let's see how much you remember from last year." She passed out her review quiz, again ignoring the groans of the students. "You will have all period to complete. When you and your partner have finished, you may leave."
She waited until the quills were inked before turning the dragon timer on. "Begin."
The class opened their scrolls and started to read the questions. After a moment, they settled down.
The twins rolled their eyes in exasperation at the questions and were the first ones to finish their test. For the rest of the class, they stared up at the ceiling, wondering how they were to survive this year.
Lily finished her question and rolled up the scroll, reading the next one. As she contemplated her answer, she glanced around the room to see how her housemates were doing. She saw, with some surprise that the twins had finished with their test and were currently staring up into space. Quickly, she looked down before they caught her looking. Who knew what they might do to her-even though she was paired with one of their housemates.
By the time the bell had rung, less than half the class had completed the review. Professor Figg clicked her tongue in teasing reproach as she collected them. "Well, it looks like we will be spending a few days on review." She commented, eliciting protesting groans.
As the class filed out, she called the Snapes to her desk. "I couldn't help but notice that you weren't working on the review test. Did you find the questions to difficult?"
"No, professor. We already learned this at Durmstrang." Severus explained, hiding his irritation with effort.
"Really?" The professor obviously didn't believe that but let it go. "Let me get you a pass for your next class. Transfiguration?"
"Yes," Septina said. She accepted the passes and together they went out the door.
Professor Figg watched them go, torn. It was obvious, at least to her, that they were trying to make up for something. But the test would reveal the truth to her, Slytherin though the children may be. She started to read Severus' but paused half-way through in surprise. Picking up his sister's, she felt her breath leave her body. Though their answers were not identical, they had answered every question correctly so far.
The tests fell to the floor as she left the lab, "Professor Dumbledore!" She cried as she entered the office, relieved to see him alone.
"It is Albus, Arabella." He gently chided her, blue eyes twinkling merrily. "Tea?"
Dropping into the empty chair that was always in front of his desk, she shakily accepted the proffered cup. "I cannot teach those two."
Albus regarded her thoughtfully, knowing exactly who she was referring to. "Why not, my dear? They are children, as are all of our students."
"Those aren't just any children, Albus." She argued. "I just gave my class a test to see what they remembered from last year, to see how far back I must go in review. The Snapes finished before anyone else and correctly answered the questions-even the ones we won't be addressing until the fourth year begins. I had not expected their abilities to be so high. I do not have the ability to engage them."
He munched on a crumpet, watching her. "You knew who their mother was before they came."
"I did. But knowing logically is different from knowing because of what you've learned. Besides, she never showed half the capacity of the two until much later in school." She pointed out, sipping her tea. "I find it hard to believe that Selena Snape would teach her children potions just because she's one of the reigning potions masters. And before you mention Durmstrang, their potions teacher is a joke. He does not have a firm grasp on potions nor does he have the ability to teach it well."
"Nevertheless, they must be taught and you are the finest potions teacher in our known world."
She smiled, accepting the compliment. "But I am no potions master. And that is what those two need."
"Do you want to know what I think, Arabella? I don't think that's the last thing they need." Albus mused thoughtfully. Before she could ask what he meant, Albus dismissed her.
Severus and Septina walked into transfiguration class. They handed Professor McGonagal their pass and sat down near the front, ignoring the curious stares of their classmates. As they sat down at lunch, Lucius asked them what Professor Figg had wanted with them.
"Nothing. She was just concerned about our test." Septina answered, looking for someone among the teachers.
"The test? Why?" He asked, peeling an orange.
Severus sighed, frustrated. "I'm sure that it escaped your limited attention span because it didn't focus solely on you but we finished the test before anyone else. That stuff was just so easy, I almost fell asleep. Probably would have, except for the fact that I was sitting by a Gryffindor. Merlyn only knows what they would've done to me."
Lucius chewed thoughtfully, not offended by his cousins words. He moved over to let Narcissa join them. "Just how smart are you?"
"We took top honors in all of our classes." Severus said, shrugging his shoulders. He was unwilling to admit it, but he wasn't sure where this line of questioning was going to lead. "In fact, we were placed in special, advanced classes."
"Bragging, Snape?" A familiar, but hated voice, asked. Sirius had stopped behind them on his way out the door.
Severus' eyebrow rose in query. "Why would I waste my breath bragging? I made a statement of fact." He paused a moment, letting the full of his black eyes rest upon Sirius'. "Bragging is a common thing to do. But then, you understand common, don't you, Black?"
Narcissa lazily glanced up at her potions partner. "I thought Gryffindors were known for courage, not lack of direction. Obviously, we believe wrong. Gryffindor shouldn't have a proud lion as its mascot but a dodo bird-to signify its unique talents."
"Better be careful, Black. Someone may accuse you of consorting with the enemy." Lucius commented.
"Something you have experience with?" He shot back.
"Siri," Remus called softly, warning his friend with his eyes. "We need to see Professor McGonagal, remember?"
Sirius stepped back, controlling himself with visible effort. "Right. This is far from over." He warned.
"Perish the thought." Someone from the far end of their table muttered.
With one last, hateful look at the four, Sirius moved with his friends towards the door. His back was stiff with anger and, to a discerning eye, hurt.
"Where's your leash?" Septina muttered, her voice was quiet but reached around the room. The room erupted into a confusion of noise, ranging from laughter to scandalized cries of foul.
Though the four Marauders stiffened, they continued to walk out the door. The dignity of their exit silenced the room. Never had the occupants of the room seen the four walk away from such a blatant insult.
Later, in front of a fire, they discussed what happened-focusing mainly on Black's surprising reticence. "What possessed you to say such a thing to him?"
"I couldn't stop the words, they just popped out of my mouth." Septina defended herself half heartedly. "You do realize that he'll find some way to get back at us."
"Let him try. We are more than a match for him." He stated, conjuring two mugs of warm cocoa. It was his own special blend.
"But we're supposed to remain low key until further notice." She said, accepting the mug.
"I won't start anything. But I won't walk away from anything he initiates." He paused, studying her. "And if you were being honest with yourself, you wouldn't either."
Septina reluctantly nodded, tilting her head to the side. "True." They were silent, slowly sipping and listening to the logs crack as the fire devoured them. "What do you think?"
"About the school or what's to come?" She just looked at him, exasperated. "The school is fine, though a bit old-fashioned with these intense house competitions. I understand friendly competition, but the way Hogwarts goes at it, it breeds bigotry and hatred. Why don't they see that?"
"Probably because all the houses, even Slytherin house, work so well together. The very contradictory nature of house loyalties is hidden behind the mask of efficiency. Besides, people see what they want to see." Septina mused, resting her head against the back of the couch.
"Should've known you would pick up on it. As for what is to come, I'd say we need to be prepared for anything."
"No need to tell me twice." She stared into her mug, a forlorn expression on her face.
"What is it?" Severus asked, putting his mug down to face her.
"I don't know, just wondering what might've been if things were different."
He nodded in perfect understanding. "Wanted to be in Ravenclaw too?"
"Yes." Her head nodded vigorously. "I don't know if it's you projecting what you feel or if I honestly sense something. But there's something about this place that fills me with fear."
"The house reeks of Voldemort. His presence lives here, it exerts his will upon those who come here. A sort of living imperio." Severus said, picking up his drink to finish it off. After a moment, he stretched and yawned. He put the empty mug down and offered his hand to her. She took it with a tired smile. With a simple gesture, she waved and the mugs disappeared. "Good night, Septina."
"Night, Severus." They parted at the bottom of the stairs.
One Month Later:
Septina resisted the urge to strangle her partner. Gilderoy Lockhart was the most incompetent person she had ever had the misfortune to meet. He had managed to foul up their potion for the third time and she had only turned her back for a moment. She just knew that this detention was going to last all eternity. 'Stupid wizard, fouling up one of the most basic spells.' Many delightful thoughts on how to torture the man popped into her mind as she cleaned the mess up and began again.
They were serving a detention to find a cure for the constant hiccups their botched up potion had inflicted upon their class. She sighed and looked around, a slight sneer formed on her face when she noticed that Potter and Black standing in the door, watching them anxiously. 'What? Do they honestly think that I am going to hurt poor, defenseless Lockhart?' She snorted faintly, turning back to her partner. 'The man's already got quite a defense system with his potions ability.'
"Is it supposed to do that?" Gilderoy asked worried. He watched the cauldron as it bubbled furiously.
Her black eyes widened. "No, you fool! What part of don't let it boil don't you understand!?!" Whipping out her wand, she contained the mess right before it exploded.
"Good thing you did that. That green goop would've ruined my hair." He patted his blond hair, reassuring himself that it was still there.
"And what a pity that would've been." Her words were quietly sarcastic.
Gilderoy nodded with a benevolent smile. "I am so glad that you understand the importance of maintaining ones appearance."
Clenching her hands tightly together, she recited the motto of Slytherin house. 'Survival above all else,' she chanted. Grabbing the cauldron, she thrust it into his hands. "Clean this up carefully. Make sure that all of the goop is cleaned out, it might decide to get into the water and ruin your hair." She said, hiding a smile. If anything would make Lockhart take extra special care of cleansing the cauldron, it was a threat to his precious looks. "Once you're done, just stay over there and watch. We've wasted enough time already."
With a frightened look at the cauldron, Gilderoy did what she asked without question. In just a few moments, they were done. With the faintest of smiles on her face, she bottled the potion. Professor Figg flooed into the room. "Done, my dears?"
Septina nodded and handed her the bottle. She packed her bag and slung it over her shoulder. "I've got to go, I promised Severus I'd help him practice flying. Black, Potter. As you can see, Lockhart has not been hurt. And they say we Slytherins have evil minds."
"No. We say that Slytherins are evil incarnate-especially when they happen to be Snapes." Black commented, watching her as she started down the hall. Though her back stiffened and her hand moved to her wand, she walked off quickly.
"That was pushing it, even with your famous luck, Sirius." James commented, shaking his head.
"I don't think so. Those two are up to something. I just wish I could figure out what it is."
"Is it even remotely possible that they aren't up to anything?" Remus asked quietly, joining them as he exited one of the classrooms.
"No. They are is Slytherin for a reason." The trio walked towards Gryffindor tower, followed by Gilderoy.
"Oh, come on. Septina isn't bad." Gilderoy spoke up, reminding them of his presence as they walked into the tower. "She appreciates good hair."
Though they tried valiantly, they couldn't stop their laughter. "Of course. An appreciation for appearances is the best way to tell if someone has malice on their minds. It's a great personality trait." Peter deadpanned, hearing his words as the four entered the common room.
"Exactly." He nodded. "I'm so glad that you can see that."
The four friends exchanged looks, as if to say 'is he really that dense?' Peter stood up from the chair he had been sitting on, intent on going to their dorm room. Sirius, Remus, and James followed him up as Gilderoy made his way down the hall towards one of the other rooms.
"You know, at the risk of sounding like a traitor, I almost feel sorry for the Slytherins. They are at the mercy of Professor Figg's edict on house rivalries." Remus commented, sitting in front of the window.
"I agree with you on that. It's bad enough that I dueled him last week." James shuddered, remembering one of the curses that Gilderoy had lobbed at him.
"Oh, admit it, James. You loved having that streak of pink and puce hair." Peter said, sitting on the floor surrounded by papers.
James' only response was to smack Peter with a pillow.
Christmas Break:
Septina dropped her books onto the floor. She fell onto her bed at the end of the day. Her face bore an odd expression for her: a smile.
"And what, if I may presume to ask, would make the Ice Princess smile?" Lucius asked. He was standing in the door, his arms folded across his chest.
She looked up at him, a slight frown on her face. She hated it when someone was able to sneak up on her-even if it was one of her own kind. "Ice Princess? Is that what they're calling me now?"
He took that as an invitation and walked in, sitting on the trunk at the foot of the bed. "It is one of the most decent. Not very flattering, wouldn't you say?"
"I think it suits me very nicely, Luc. As for the smile, I no longer have to work with that juvenile Lockhart."
Lucius shuddered. "Don't remind me. Hair boy is up for grabs once more. Is there anyway we can convince you to take him back?"
"Nothing on or in this world would convince me to work with that miscreant again." Septina said. She flipped over, leaning on her elbows. "How did such a creature like him end up in Gryffindor anyway?"
Lucius opened his mouth to answer but stopped when he saw Narcissa walk in. Even though he was right in her path, she looked through him and smiled frigidly at Septina. "Hello." Her voice was arctic.
"Narcissa, I'm sorry I left you to deal with those Gryffindors but what else was I supposed to do? Filch was coming and I was supposed to be serving detention with him." He pleaded with her. Life was unpleasant when she was angry with anyone in the house.
The Slytherin girl just walked to her closet and put away her heavy green robe. "I'm sorry, did you say something?" She said, a look of polite interest on her face.
"No. I was just wondering how Lockhart ended up in Gryffindor." Septina answered, sending a apologetic look towards her cousin. Though she didn't like him, she felt sorry for him. Narcissa was really his only friend in their house.
"All the other houses are to smart to take him." Narcissa explained. "That idiot should never have been allowed into Hogwarts. He's a menace."
"Who excels in memory charms, if gossip is to be believed." Severus added, joining them. In his hand was a book titled "The Theory Behind The Practice of Dark Arts."
Septina glanced at the book, then studied his face. "Is that from mother?"
"No. Mother's still angry with us for not making it into Ravenclaw." The word 'father' hung in the ominously in the air. She shivered, feeling a familiar coldness seep into her veins. "It's a Christmas present." He added, mentally adding 'more like a bribe'.
Lucius and Narcissa looked at the twins, feeling the unease in the room.
"I see." Septina softly said. "We're not going home, are we?"
His head shook. "And before you say anything, Lucius, you're not allowed to invite us to go with you. Mother has informed your parents that we are persona non grata."
"Just for being in Slytherin?" He couldn't believe it. Why was his aunt being so difficult? His family had been thrilled to pieces to have him in this house.
"And for starting off our first year here embroiled in a feud with Gryffindors." Severus elaborated, choosing his words with care. One never knew who was listening and what might be slipped to outsider ears.
Narcissa sat on her bed, shaking her head. "You poor, poor things. To be staying here for the holidays is bad enough, but you'll be staying with here with mudblood wizards and those who can't afford to go home."
The twins groaned, knowing who she was referring to. "Don't tell me, let me guess. Remus Lupin and Sirius Black are staying." Severus said, leaning against the wall.
"Yes." Narcissa said. "They couldn't go home this year and the Potters are going away, which means you may also have James Potter to deal with."
"Maybe we can spend the whole break in our rooms. After all, what is food and fresh air to us?" Septina suggested. Her face bore no trace of the good humor that had been there earlier.
"Hey, little mensas!" A voice called to them from the common room. "You have a visitor!"
The twins straightened their robes and ran a hand through their hair, trying to look presentable. As calmly as possible, they made their way downstairs. Only one thought was on their minds, who would be visiting them so close to the holiday break? As they entered the now empty room, they got their answer.
Standing in front of the warm fire was a dark figure swathed in a long, black cloak. He turned, the opaque eyes met theirs. A familiar trill of recognition ran through them. "Mensas?" The voice drawled lazily. "What an appropriate nickname for you two. Please, sit down. Be comfortable. My visit is one of pleasure, not pain."
They seated themselves on the couch cautiously, knowing how quickly pleasure could become pain in their visitor's mind. "How have you been, sir?"
"Ah, Severus, always so ready to cut through the festivities. Very well." The silken voice hardened, the common room was cut off from any disturbances. "I've been well, though a trifle, how shall I put this?, disturbed by your latest missive." They flinched at the reproach. "Come here, my seer."
She rose and knelt before him. Her face rested on his feet, eyes staring at nothing. The touch of his hand upon her head was a command to look at him. Black eyes, revealing all to her master, met his. "No need to be afraid of me. I have no intention of hurting you, not while I still need you."
"But I have failed you, lord." She humbly said, head still downcast though her eyes never left his.
"Have you now?" He asked, the hand stroking her hair moved down and grabbed her chin. The strong fingers forced her head up, holding it so that he could study her whole face. Though she flinched and Severus tensed, she didn't move. "And how did you do that?"
She was silent, feeling confused by his attitude. It was accepting of her limitations, why?
"You are merely my seer, not the one who can weave destiny. That rests upon another." The hand moved over her head again. "The time is not yet here. I can be patient." He then turned to face Severus, dismissing her from mind. "I hear that you have been experiencing some trouble with a few Gryffindors."
"Nothing I can't handle, lord." Severus agreed, kneeling in front of him.
Strong hands rested on his shoulders, squeezing painfully. "That is not what I told you to do, boy. I specifically ordered you to remain circumspect, to hold yourself aloof. To be above the common herd, did I not?"
"You did. But Black and his friends started it." Severus said, reveling none of his pain. "I make no excuses for my own actions, nor do I seek to justify myself."
"You must try harder to ignore them, Severus. I have great plans for you." The voice was harder than iron, full of power. "Plans that I will not tolerate any alterations on. Do you understand?"
And Severus knew that it didn't matter if he did or not. His lord would have his way.