Chapter 19
It was too early. It was too late. One day had begun while another was at an end. It had been a very busy night and the dawn promised no respite from activity. Hogwarts was going to be full of tired people today no question. However, lack of sleep was no excuse for dawdling the day away. There were far too many things to do. Professor Minerva McGonagall checked the sleepers in the Sitters Room before continuing on to the quarters of Severus Snape. They had matters to discuss and to her mind there was no time like the present. She swept into his quarters unannounced and casted a Circle of Anomi. She did not sit nor join Snape in a cup of tea in his bedroom. To her untrained eye, Demos' pod seemed bigger than ever. "Severus, why have you not yet talked with Ms. Granger regarding the Tradition and her new status? They're due back any time now. For that matter, why was I not consulted of your plans for Ms. Granger?"
"Good morning to you too, Minerva." Snape dutifully sipped his tea and made a show of finishing his early breakfast. His minder, Pomfrey's companion, hovered nearby watching his every move. A full and completely consumed breakfast was a requirement he had to fulfill or face the wrath of the nurse. "You were not consulted because I am not under any obligation to do so when it pertains to Tradition matters."
"The welfare of all our students concerns me. Anything that happens to a student concerns me." Minerva's response was terse.
"Especially those of your house." Snape said.
"That goes unsaid. While they are here at Hogwarts they are my responsibility. It is my duty to their parents to see to their children's welfare." McGonagall tersely reminded him. "As to Ms. Granger, did you secure her parents' permission? When I talked to her she was in a quandary as to what to tell her parents."
"No, I did not speak to her parents beforehand. I saw no need. However, I or perhaps Genevieve Longbottom can speak with them when it becomes necessary to do so."
"Severus, I am warning you. Do not dismiss this matter so lightly." Minerva pointed out. "I know you of the Tradition believe that you answer to no one else save yourselves. Her parents are very much involved in her schooling and in her life. I have regular correspondence with them. She is their only child and they are justifiably proud of her. Unlike some muggle parents, they fully support Ms. Granger and do their best to understand our ways. Do not underestimate their influence on their daughter."
"I will take that under advisement. Was there anything else?"
"It is obvious to me that you are on your way to a full recovery." Professor McGonagall said. "Did you fully inform her beforehand of what being bonded within the community of the Tradition entails?"
"No, there was no time."
"Did you get her express and sworn approval before the joining?"
"Not exactly."
"Did you consult with any of the Tradition before making your decision?"
Severus inhaled deeply and wet his lips. He hardened his expression and his spine. He had had enough of being badgered. "As the Keeper, I am well able and expected to make decisions. I am under no geas or stricture requiring that I secure your approval in Tradition matters. Secondly, as Keeper, I am obligated to search for talented students of muggle descent and take steps to insure their continued success and survival. I am here at Hogwarts for that sole purpose. Furthermore, Ms. Granger is of the age of knowledgeable consent."
"In the muggle world she is still a legal minor, Severus." Minerva pointed out. Each stood tense facing off neither one giving the other any room for escaping this confrontation.
"Minerva, I will only say this once so mark my words well. Ms. Granger is one of the most talented and driven students we have had in many years. She has an almost unconscious focus and discipline of mind. No first generation pure muggle wizard or witch has ever attained the level of mastery Ms. Granger has in the few years she has been here. While she is not of the same power level as a pureblood or mixed blood, she compensates by channeling and focusing what power she does have far more precisely and effectively to get the same or better results. Whether that tendency is an accident of genetics or fate, I don't know nor do I care. I suspect that she is unaware of her abilities. I do know that she must be given protection while she learns to use all of her abilities."
"It was not her choice, Severus. You made the choice for her."
"My memory may be failing me but were you given the choice of partners?" Severus stood his ground. "You were not but you accepted, did you not? Brave Gryffindors are so capable of self sacrifice when the reason is heroic enough."
Several expressions flitted across the headmistress' countenance. First was fury, followed by pain then shame. "You cannot always turn a situation to suit you or your needs!"
"If I am allowed to do so, I will and I do as often as I can. What can you expect of me but to take advantage of someone else's culpability and weakness? I am a true Slytherin and as such I firmly believe that the end justifies the means." Snape shot back.
Minerva noticed Severus' apprehensive look. It was there for just a moment before it disappeared once more under his usual sardonic expression. "Taking tips from Albus again. You almost had me believing you. You should have turned away first or made some meaningless comment to deflect further inquiry. Most of all, you should have remembered that I of all people know all of Albus' tricks. There is more to this than what you are claiming."
"Thank you for the critique. I shall make improvements." Said Snape neutrally.
Minerva let the silence stretch between them. The silence confirmed her suspicion. "Severus, it will go no further than this room. I suspect that at some point you will need help. Would it not be easier to have help from a known ally than spare the time to make a new one?" Minerva asked.
"My motives .. sometimes I don't even know what if -" Severus began.
"I'm fresh out of moral judgments, Severus. You won't get any from me." Minerva said.
Snape sighed in resignation yielding to her unassailable logic. He stood and nodded. He informed Demos that he would be in the other room for a while but would return. Snape followed McGonagall into the sitting room. "It started with that first summoning the one that gave rise to Demos. There were unforeseen consequences."
"Aren't there always?" Minerva started a fire and settled herself in for a long story. There was still an hour to go until breakfast.
- * -
Hermione and Neville waited in the salon of the Castell de Remeis for Professor Moody to take them back to Hogwarts. He was upstairs collecting his own things. The view outside the enormous bay window was lovely and more than a little romantic. Castell de Remeis, the Snape's ancestral home, was a working vineyard and winery in the hinterlands of Spain's Andalucia province. The horizon was a band of glorious orange outlining the mountains slowly banishing the evening's dark grip.
Hermione could not stand being inside any longer not when such grandeur beckoned. She opened the French doors and stepped on to the terrace. The property was situated in a valley with mountains all around serving to keep the cold northern winds from taking residence in the valley. Even in deep winter, the air was chilly not icy. Hermione was warm enough with Neville's borrowed woolen robes. Neville was under strict instructions from Professor McGonagall not to let Hermione out his sight on pain of his head of house's considerable ingenuity. He followed her out to the terrace not bothering to stifle a big yawn. He had missed his sleep, his run and was still in his nightclothes. All in all, Neville Longbottom was feeling very out of sorts.
"How can he bear to leave this place?" Hermione opened her arms wide trying to encompass all the beauty around her breathing in the unique crispness of mountain air mixed with the tangy edge of wine, grapes and wood. "It should be a criminal offense to leave."
"Who?" asked Neville rubbing his eyes.
"Professor Snape that's who. If I lived here, I would never leave ever."
"He rarely comes so he rarely has to leave. But you're welcome to return any time you want both of you." Said Calliandra stepping out into the terrace herself. "Return in the spring or the summer. Better yet come during the harvest."
"I'd love to! That's during summer break isn't it?" Hermione smiled at her hostess. "But before I say yes with all my heart, let me ask my parents first."
"As you wish. Alastor is almost ready. Come inside and have some hot chocolate before you leave." Calliandra said invitingly.
As she sipped her hot chocolate, Hermione strolled around the salon looking at the various souvenirs and antiques the Snapes had collected on their travels. An oval frame holding the lone position of honor on the mantel caught her attention. She read the words imperfectly but legibly embroidered within.
By setting sun or waning moon,
One point have I ever steered by
A compass true, a sight adored.
You are the star I have ever wished upon
The only star I truly chose to see,
My heart's choice, my soul's promise.
After all has been said and done
You are forever you and I remain as I
Man and woman, earth and sky.
We circle, we dance, we gaze
One to the other and no one else
And this will never change.
Calliandra sat on the edge of the sofa looking bemusedly at Hermione. "That was Serjanus' one and only attempt at poetry. It was also my first and last attempt at embroidery."
"It's beautiful." Hermione fingered the none too steady stitching. "You're very lucky to have someone love you that much."
"It's only a little bit of luck. It's mostly compromise, communication and commitment all the time, every day non stop." Calliandra said.
"And forgetting all the arguments you have ever lost as soon as you have lost them." Serjanus Snape wheeled himself into the room. "I have certainly lost more than I have won."
They all laughed. Alastor Moody appeared in the doorway. "Come on now it's time." He said to Hermione and Neville. As Hermione passed in front of her Calliandra Snape handed a silver and cream envelope to her.
"When you see Severus please give him this from me." She instructed.
"Oh, the letter's from you." Seeing Mrs. Snape's puzzled look she explained further. "Professor Snape had me find an envelope in his desk. It was just like this one. I was supposed to deliver it to him while he was in isolation in the Counsel room but I still have it. He must be furious."
"Severus has not had opportunity to read my first letter?" Calliandra asked.
"No and it's my fault. I just kept forgetting about it. That's not like me at all." Hermione replied. "I'm so sorry!"
"It's all right. It just calls for a strategic change in tactics." Serjanus and Calliandra exchanged a glance heavy with meaning. Professor Moody caught the look and sat himself on an armchair knowing that they were not going to get out of there until both Snapes had had their chance to interrogate the two Gryffindors.
"So, Hermione, has Severus recovered from his isolation in the Room of Counsel of all places?" Asked Serjanus very carefully. Calliandra had moved so as to sandwich the two young people between her and her husband.
"As far as we know Nurse Pomfrey hasn't released him yet." Hermione answered.
"I don't know why he doesn't just come here to recover from his regular bouts with exhaustion. It is just exhaustion isn't it, Neville?" Calliandra probed.
Neville flushed caught between the rock formed by his mentor's parents and his loyalty to that same mentor. "It's not just exhaustion. But it's not for me to say. Or for Hermione either."
"I see. Thank you, Neville. I will . we will make sure to talk with Severus very soon." Said Serjanus now looking far more serious than they had ever seen him before. He turned his wheelchair around and slowly moved closer to the hearth with his back to them.
"Now, it is definitely time for you to go. Breakfast is only a few hours away." Said Mrs. Snape. "Hermione, please make very sure Severus gets that letter first thing and thank you. Alastor, get a move on will you."
After Moody, Hermione and Neville had apparated, Calliandra looked at her husband. His face was a mixture of worry and fury. Right now fury was winning and by a large margin. She was not feeling too calm herself. What has Severus been up to? Serjanus summoned their house owls Echo and Dante to deliver a summons to their only child. One owl to return confirming delivery while the other owl stayed on to hound and harass the recipient until the summons had been met. Yes, they knew their son all too well.
- * -
Professor McGonagall and Mr. Filch welcomed the three back to Hogwarts. In contrast to the vigor of her head of house, Hermione's earlier elation was rapidly being overtaken by exhaustion. She was finding that youth and strength of will could carry one only so far. Each step was heavy but necessary. Professor McGonagall conjured up extra cloaks for Neville and Hermione.
"Alastor, your rooms are ready. Did you have a good visit with Serjanus and Calliandra?" Professor McGonagall asked.
"Better than I expected. Calliandra was able to make the adjustments on my eye. It's going to be much more useful now!" Moody said the words with such relish that McGonagall glanced at him with some alarm.
"More useful?" she inquired.
"Very inventive that woman!" Moody chose not to elaborate. He started catching up with Filch.
Professor McGonagall turned her attention to her two charges. Neville was muttering to himself nonstop. She assumed he must be reciting some memory exercises. Hermione was almost sleepwalking. "Ms. Granger, I had a talk with Professor Snape this morning. He would like to see you after your first class."
"So he does, does he? Well, he'll have to wait. I'm exhausted. I have a study period after first class and I intend to have a nap." Hermione snapped the words out. "After all the time that I had to wait for him, he could certainly wait for me. I refuse to be a beggar to the altar of his convenience!"
Taken aback by Hermione's outburst but not fully surprised given the events of the last 24 hours Professor McGonagall let the subject drop. Severus will have to find his own way to make amends with this one she thought. She had a feeling he was going to need help sooner rather than later. Hermione fished out an envelope from inside her robes and handed it to Professor McGonagall. "Please give this to Professor Snape, professor. I really cannot face him right now. I might fall dead asleep on my face."
"Ah, another one of Calliandra's missives. I shall see that he gets it, Ms. Granger. Rest assured." McGonagall put the letter away. The adults carried on their own animated conversation the rest of the way while the younger set trudged along in their wake. They separated and scattered in the main hall.
"It's a ruddy conspiracy!" Neville muttered under his breath. The late night activities had finally caught up with him too. Unlike his companion, lack of sleep made Neville depressed not cranky. Neville in the grips of depression was not good company for human or beast. "Neville do this. Neville do that. Neville blow up that cauldron. Neville look like an idiot."
"Shush! You want to get us caught?" Hermione asked.
"First my grandmother, then Snape, now you. My life is a one long running cosmic joke with the punch line gone on permanent holiday." Despite the incessant commentary, Neville did keep moving following in Hermione's wake.
"Wallow in self pity on your own time, Neville. I'm not enjoying this at all."
"Couldn't tell by your expression."
"Your new attitude while refreshing in its newness pales quickly." Hermione opened the door to Gryffindor tower.
"My attitude !? That's rich coming from you." Neville ducked through the portrait door.
"Watch it, Neville! You are forgiven this time seeing as you haven't had your caffeine overdose yet."
"I shouldn't have had that hot chocolate on an empty stomach." Neville mumbled rubbing his stomach as he made his way up the stairs to the boys dormitory.
"Spare me." Hermione quietly walked up the steps to her dormitory. In her current mood, she would have preferred to stomp her way up but she just did not have the energy to follow through.
- * -
Breakfast at Hogwarts was normally a pleasant affair. However this morning it was decidedly abnormal. First off, the headmaster was not in his usual seat. In fact there were far too many empty seats at the high table - Professors Flitwick, Sprout and Snape. Professor McGonagall had arrived late herself. Most of the staff and faculty were moving at slow speed themselves. Many yawned and large pitchers of coffee kept appearing and disappearing. One thing remained the same though - the owl posts. Two large brown and gray hawk owls alighted on Professor Snape normal seat. They did not look too pleased to find a vacant chair. Professor McGonagall went and attended to them. One owl gave her his message. She scrawled an answer and tied it back on Echo who lifted off again.
Knowing the routine, McGonagall addressed the remaining owl Dante and said "I'll take you to him right after breakfast. Come with me and have some bacon."
"Hagrid's cancelled our first class today Care for Magical Creatures." Said Harry reading his mail. He turned his head to the right thinking that he had just heard Hermione moan. "Excuse me, Hermione. Did you just say something?"
"Just that I could have used another hour of sleep." Hermione answered.
"You're looking more horrible than usual, Granger. You mudbloods need your beauty sleep far more than the rest of us." drawled Draco Malfoy. Crabbe and Goyle were as usual little more than scowling gargoyles standing sentry beside him. Ron and Harry were already moving to stand by Hermione.
"Well, pureblood, we're not all blessed with brains, looks and wit. I admit I'm quite lacking but I'm puzzled as to what YOUR excuse could possibly be." Hermione remained in her seat eating her breakfast. Neville sat opposite her equally unconcerned.
Draco's eyes narrowed and his nostrils flared not so much because of what she said but because her seemingly indifferent posture was something he had not expected nor found to be much to his liking. He tried a different tactic. "Having too many extracurricular activities of the nighttime variety?"
"I guess I'm just exceedingly popular, Draco" Hermione lowered her voice and practically purred. Harry and Ron stood frozen. They had never heard that tone of voice from her before. And she never called Draco by his first name. What's this about nighttime activities? With her back to her male audience none of them could see the mischievous set to her lips. She stood up and faced them at last. She got close very close to Draco and said. "But you know what a burden popularity can be, don't you Draco? We all do our part but it's so hard."
Her comments were aimed to confuse, belittle and pull his tail a bit. It succeeded in all parts. Draco saw the same old defiant Granger standing before him. He heard the same superior bossy tone of voice. But there was something else, something new. There was a lack of her usual tense indignation whenever the word mudblood was said or implied in her vicinity. Her eyes answered his taunting with a blatant challenge that seemed to say "Go ahead and dare me but you had better be able to take it." Draco got the distinct and uncomfortable feeling that Granger could prove her words and then some. Feeling outnumbered and outgunned appearances to the contrary Draco retreated with ill grace. He and his entourage turned and left the hall without a word.
Harry and Ron were both gaping at her. Well, Ron was gaping. Harry was introspective. Hermione said simply "What? I just got tired of being provoked all the time. I kept making a big fuss about it They kept at it knowing it would always get a reaction. So, I have stopped fussing about it."
"Makes sense." Ron said.
"Still, Hermione, that was unusual." Said Harry. "Unusual for you I mean."
"I had to do something. You can't always be defending me." Hermione explained.
"We're always going to be here for you, Hermione." Said Harry.
"I know. I know you'll always try your best. But you have to admit it's much more fun to get the best of Draco as often as possible." Said Hermione gently turning the subject away from a potential minefield that she wasn't ready to cross with her friends yet to the more familiar path that they were all comfortable with.
"Yeah, but nothing beats the bouncing ferret bit. That is a true classic." Ron added. The three of them left the Great Hall heading for Gryffindor tower.
- * -
Professor McGonagall carried Dante on one arm. A small cream envelope dangled from one of its claws. They found Professor Snape in the Sitters Room. Dante immediately flew to Snape. The five sitters were in deep sleep. They would all be very weak when they awoke. She went to each one adjusting blankets and pillows. Sprout and Flamel looked little change from the last time she had checked on them. Flitwick was a restless sleeper. Most of his pillows were on the floor about his camp bed. Flavius did not look very comfortable either. She adjusted his pillow a little and got another blanket to put over him. "How much longer, Severus?"
"Not much. Having these five in particular is more than sufficient power. The Tree of Blessings is almost at its correct growth level." Said Snape continuing to take measurements ignoring Dante. It was taking him three times as long and more spell work than usual without Demos to help. The owl was used to Snape's treatment and flew a few circles about him before settling down on a table to stare unblinkingly at the potions master. It's eyes followed Snape about the room.
"What about tonight? Sybil has informed me that she is getting four sitters tonight." Minerva said putting a pillow by Dumbledore's side. Albus looked the least restful of them. He must be having bad dreams again, she thought.
"I agree. It's best to be cautious at this stage. Has the Ministry made any inquiries this morning?"
"Fortunately not. No one outside of ourselves know about the events last night." Minerva took out the envelope from her robes and held it out. "However, that is the least of your problems. Here's another letter."
Snape looked at the letter as if it were a highly undesirable object that he would sooner flee from than run headlong into. "Alastor informed me that your parents now know you are in isolation. Naturally, they have questions. Don't blame Neville or Hermione they were just answering their questions." McGonagall informed him.
"No, I don't blame anyone but myself. My delays in my normal correspondence has surely tipped them off that something is amiss." Severus opened the envelope. The gist of the long note ordered him to speak with Hermione immediately and spare her at least 30 minutes of his valuable time. He went to Dante and retrieved the letter that he carried. The second letter was quite brief in contrast to the first. It was in his father's hand. It said simply "Be here 3pm sharp." This was not an invitation. This was a summons.
"Well, I will take care of the first request once Ms. Granger is finished with her first class -" Severus began.
"No, you won't. Ms. Granger is exhausted and will be using her study period for a nap. A well deserved nap." Minerva interrupted him.
"I shall make it a point to consult her social calendar before I set up another meeting with her." Severus replied. "It will have to be right after lunch. That is if she can spare me a moment."
"I'll let her know." Minerva replied.
- * -
After her History of Magic class, Hermione made her way to the Room of Counsel. He was there on one side of the table waiting for her. Strangely enough a brown owl flitted about the large room. She took a seat opposite him.
"I thought this place would be a more fitting atmosphere for our talk. Are you ready for me now, Ms. Granger?"
"Yes, I believe I am. The owl, professor?"
"Ignore it. I do. Now I realize that you are quite understandably upset that we . I simply foisted the Tradition upon you without asking first and -"
"I'm not upset, professor. Not anymore." Hermione interrupted him.
"You're not?"
"I don't agree with the method but I think that if you had asked me first I might have been too intimidated to accept. Perhaps it was best it happened this way."
"A very mature outlook."
"Oh, don't get the idea that you've been forgiven. I've simply decided it's a waste of time to dwell on it."
"I see."
"Do you? I admit I was shocked by it all. The first congratulatory owl I got was from Neville's grandmother followed by all the rest. In the last few hours I've realized that what I really wanted to do was to thank you, professor."
That was the last thing Severus Snape expected Hermione Granger to say to him especially to his face. He barely got the words out. "Thank me for what?"
"For letting a muggle nobody feel like a somebody in the wizarding world." Said Hermione. "You don't understand what it's like to be different and have people reminding you all the time that you're different. You start thinking that there's something wrong or missing with you but you never find out what it is."
"You're wrong there," Severus said the words so softly that she strained to hear him. "Everyone has felt the same way as you have for different reasons but the feelings are still the same."
"You're probably right. But there I've said it. Thank you."
"I did not make an exception to please you but if that is a side benefit so be it and you're welcome." Snape stood up and faced her his hands clasped behind him. "My reasons are entirely selfish. What I am about to tell you stays here and between us only. I will never repeat any of what I am about to tell you now."
Snape took a deep breath before going on. "You are an exceptional student. We both know that. But that is not why I chose you. You have shown bravery, ingenuity and magical skill. But I did not choose you for any of those traits. I chose you because you are muggle born."
Snape did not have to wait long for her reaction. "Yes, that which has made you different is also that which makes you special. There has been much study made of muggle born wizards and witches. There is a pattern that applies to them. The first generation shows the least amount of magical talent and proficiency. If that witch or wizard marries another magical person, then their offspring will have the same power levels as that of a half muggle, half wizard person. And this level continues into the fourth generation. By the time the fifth generation is raised, the overall power level and proficiency has reached the same level as one with no muggle blood whatsoever assuming that marriages continue to be with other wizards and witches."
Snape sat on the edge of the table facing her with arms crossed across his chest. "Five generations is a long time. With more witches and wizards marrying muggles there are fewer and fewer wizards and witches who are in the higher echelons of power and skill. More rely on gadgets and inventions to do their magic for them from omnioculars to broomsticks. The old knowledge and arts are being left behind. And why not when there are paraphernalia that would do the same things and available for purchase in Diagon Alley. The old magic is rigorous to learn, require great discipline of mind and enormous strength of will to wield properly and safely. The Tradition has over the years passed the old arts and the disciplines down from one generation to another. Our primary purpose is to preserve that knowledge. Our secondary purpose is the protection of Hogwarts. Our third purpose is to identify and mentor promising muggle born wizards and witches with the goal of their successful assimilation into wizarding society. There are other responsibilities but those are the most central to the Tradition's philosophy. This is where you come in, Ms. Granger."
"In you all three goals are uniquely combined. Your aptitude and inclinations are, I believe, superbly suited to the understanding of knowledge and its applications. You proved your commitment to Hogwarts by handling anything the Club has asked of you. Over the last few years, your talents both magical and intellectual have been amply demonstrated. Being muggle born is an advantage. You are not handicapped with the prejudices learned and bred through generations of witches and wizards. That plus your inherent aptitude would be an asset. But none of that together or alone necessitated joining you to the Tradition. I could easily have mentored you or made you aware of the Tradition without actually joining your family lines with ours. I bound you to the Tradition for one reason. We need you. We need what you can add to enrich our collective. As I said, it is a purely selfish reason."
It was all too much for Hermione to completely comprehend all at once. But she still had the presence of mind to squeak out. "What would I bring into the . the collective, professor? What would I do?"
"I need you to learn the old ways, Ms. Granger, to learn and surpass your teachers in every way. It has always been a fact that females have more of a natural affinity for them than the males. You will find that the Tradition has very few young people. Voldemort dispatched many of those who could or were raising young families. There is a very real danger to the dissolution of our knowledge simply because there is no one to hand down the knowledge to. You know that I am mentoring Neville. His parents did not . were not given the time to teach him so I am doing what I can to do what they would have done. I would like to do the same with you if you are agreeable to it."
"You're giving me a choice?" She asked incredulously. "How Machiavellian of you! Make the offer so irresistible that it can't be refused. You really don't change do you?"
"I will not apologize for my actions. I feel that I was within my right and responsibility to -'
"To secure the needed object by whatever means necessary." Hermione finished the thought for him.
"Absolutely. I do what I must. I accept who and what I am, Ms. Granger. How others see me is of no import to me." Snape pulled out a chair and sat opposite her.
"I never know where I stand with you. You go forwards and backwards on me in the blink of an eye. You compliment me and then treat me as some object to be acquired and used up. You allow me a glimpse into a world that I had never thought to belong in and then slam the door in my face."
"My first responsibility is to the Tradition. Nothing says I have to be nice or considerate to achieve my goals. I've given you the key and it's up to you to open that door again should you choose." Snape replied.
"It's not much of a choice! By refusing I would lose so much. By agreeing I gain even more than I would ever lose." Said Hermione. "Why the pretense of making it my choice? It was never my choice."
"Everything in life is a choice, Ms. Granger, especially the ones where there seems to be only one eventuality. But what you make of that choice will say more about you than about me. The Tradition and I will demand much from you. What will you make of it? How committed will you be? Your life will change. Can you adapt? How much do you want it?"
Hermione stood up and walked around the table gazing at everything but seeing nothing. "How committed will you be to me?"
"What you want of me is yours. You will never be alone. All in the Tradition protect each other sometimes even above their own blood relatives." Snape answered.
"Will you share? Learn from me as I will learn from you?"
"I will share what I can. That will have to suffice." Severus asked.
"This is all for the Tradition? Is there anything for you?"
"I am the Keeper. I forgot that once and it took me some time to remember. Now that I do remember I have no intention of wasting time. I need an answer, Ms. Granger. What will it be?" Snape looked her straight and held her gaze. "In or out?"
"You give me no guarantees and I want none. I'm in but on one condition." She had completed a full circuit around the table and returned to her starting point.
"Which is?"
"You visit Castell de Remeis more often at least every four months. Perhaps your mother wouldn't be so hard on you if you did." Hermione held out her hand. "Do we have a deal?"
"Why this particular condition?" As he asked the question, he shook her hand firmly.
"Your home is a beautiful place and very restorative. It's obvious your mother misses you and that you're probably miserable here. I would be if I had to leave a place like that. But I know that you're needed here more." She added. "In fact, if you're not more careful, Professor, one could mistake you for a Gryffindor - all foolhardy bravery and self sacrifice in the name of the cause and no sense."
Severus scowled but Hermione could see it wasn't his trademark, genuine Snape scowl. "Only in the dark, Ms. Granger. And only during full moons."
Hermione smiled impishly. "You're deep in denial so be it."
"You are meddling as usual," Replied Snape.
"I have a class to go to in a few minutes, professor."
"Of course. I'll send a lesson schedule much like I have with Neville. We will have to think of a good cover for your new project."
"Professor, I prefer to keep this as secret as possible for a while at least until I can tell my parents."
"Understood. I will ask Genevieve Longbottom to speak discreetly with your parents. Would you prefer to be there with us and tell them together?" Severus asked her.
"Yes I would. I really have to go now." Hermione straightened her robes.
"And I have an owl to attend to. Have a good day, Ms. Granger." Their eyes remained locked for a minute longer and for once the potions master and the know-it-all were in full agreement.
- * -
Severus could not put off answering his parents' summons much longer. Dante shadowed him everywhere. He changed his clothes and checked on Demos before apparating to Castell de Remeis. It was ten minutes to three. His parents awaited him in the salon.
"Start at the beginning, Severus." Serjanus instructed.
"Do fill us in on whatever else you're doing for whatsisname." Added Calliandra.
Severus sat himself down on the sofa stretching out and getting comfortable. "It all started when Voldemort found some research notes on the Consula Econtra."
"The original Egyptian?" asked Serjanus.
"Yes and some of it had been translated to high Latin. It was not complete though. I filled in the pieces as best I could. At the same time I realized that some of the research could be applied to the problem we had with the Blessing of Benevolence. As you know, we decided to pursue the theory of binding Hogwarts to a living, organic object and imbuing that object with the necessary intelligence and sentient ability to protect Hogwarts adjusting and changing in ways that the old blessing never could do. Cera handled the research on the appropriate target object. Flitwick managed the spell matrix to enable the eventual transfer of protection from the Blessing to the target object. Minerva and Cera then devised the actual structure for what has now become the Tree of Blessings. Through my work on the Consula Econtra I devised what I thought at the time was the ideal solution providing both docile sentience and a self-renewing energy source. What you do not know is that on my first attempt at demon summoning -"
"Oh, Severus! Didn't all my stories about that scare you enough as a child?" said Calliandra. "I had hoped you wouldn't follow in my example."
"The apple doesn't fall too far nor does it always roll in the direction we want it to." Serjanus commented dryly.
"I would have been better served if I had remembered some of your stories. I botched my first summoning. Botched there is no other word for it. I summoned a demon that was too powerful for what I needed. I was not prepared. I summoned an Oldest about a thousand years old. I had intended only to leech enough of its energy for my needs. But the vessel I chose to house that energy was insufficient to the purpose. I missed the reasoning that energy from a sentient being needed an organic host. During the summoning I knew things were not going right. I was causing the demon pain as I fought to control it. But I was stubborn. I did not stop. I took more and more of its energy and losing control of it all the longer I went. The energy had nowhere to go. I by default became the host."
"A siphon conducting and absorbing directly from the demon." Commented Calliandra.
"Yes. The demon could not sustain itself as it was losing progressively more energy and tiring of the battle. As it discorporated I lapsed into unconsciousness. Poppy was there and she knows better than I the series of events after I became unconscious. She woke me up. But during the period of time that I was out I believe I went time walking. Never having done it before I believe it is what you've described doing, Father."
"Multiple timelines flashing by while you're on the psychic bridge? Disorientation and displacement?" As Severus nodded, Serjanus sighed. "What's done is done. What do you remember of that?"
"Images from timelines past, present and future too much to remember in detail. I have found myself compelled to act a certain way or making decisions based on the occasional flash of conscious insight. I cross the line between rationality and inevitability time and again."
"If it's any consolation, the psychic displacement should ebb and fade in about a month time." Serjanus had an intent analytical look about him that Severus knew all too well.
"Severus, I have not experienced nor know of any attempts similar to what you tried to do with the Consula Econtra. What physical manifestations have resulted? Don't tell me none. You cannot have dispatched with all that energy and have it go off into nothing." Calliandra said.
"The energy displaced and disowned came to me. Poppy said that she saw the demon's resonant imprint enter me during my lapse. She was proven right. We found the next day that I had acquired a second self, a shadow that is part of me yet separate."
"Is it sentient?" asked Serjanus.
"Yes, very but childlike in many ways. It can converse and comprehend. It has its own volition. It has form and substance. It has a name Demos. Demos and I could only be apart for a few hours before I would start experiencing pain." Snape said.
"All right. Let's see it then." Calliandra made her wand ready. "Summon it please."
"I can't not now. Until a week ago we were inseparable. Mr. Flamel separated us during the cleansing ritual and -" Another slight half truth there Severus thought.
"Wait! Nicholas?! Nicholas' has left his enclave willingly? What has been going on at Hogwarts?!" Serjanus was now visibly agitated.
"The headmaster invited him to serve as a consultant on the Tree of Blessings." There that wasn't a lie with enough truth to be believable. "I collapsed due to exhaustion and from the after effects of my first and second summonings."
"Second? The first wasn't enough of an experience?!" asked his mother.
Severus sat upright before continuing. "You are aware of the companions. It was through my second attempt at which time I had perfected my methods that they came to be. The summoning and the invocation were successful. I did not kill the demon either. The considerable energy left over was used to imbue the seed pod of the Blessing Tree with sentience and awareness."
"So, you have one demon in your charge and another in thrall to you? Do I have that right?" asked Calliandra now pacing the floor thinking out loud. She looked at him intently reading his aura and other signs about him that would indicate his general health. "The cleansing ritual was a success I take it. I see none of the usual dark arts residue about you."
"Yes to both questions. I feel much improved. Poppy released me from isolation before I came here."
"You should have come here. Your mother or I are equally capable of performing the cleansing. Don't say that you were thinking me too frail, Severus, or that your mother could not be spared from my side. It is not your responsibility to protect us. It is however our responsibility to protect you." Serjanus said the words in a light tone but the lesson was very clear. "We are here for you and you need only make use of us."
"You have done more than enough for me."
"Severus, there is no bottom to what we will do for you. When you have your own children you will realize how true that is." Said Calliandra sitting down next to her well meaning but misguided son at least where his parents were concerned. "Speaking of children, have you spoken with Hermione?"
"As instructed, yes."
"Severus, what are the reasons why you elected to join Hermione with the Tradition?" Serjanus asked. "In light of what you have just told us I have to wonder if this was a conscious, practical decision or something else?"
Damn his father's eyes! He could always see right through him. You told Minerva you had better tell them his conscience advised. "While I was time walking, I saw Hermione standing by the library summoning books out of it as if she was born to do so."
"So you decided to help spur the future on by making an exception?" Serjanus deduced. "Half compulsion, half conscious choice?"
"Yes, she already shows remarkable capabilities. I strongly feel that the old ways will come very naturally to her once she learns of it. Perhaps it was a fateful compulsion I don't know." Said Severus.
"What more did you see? About Hermione, I mean." As usual his mother was too perceptive by half. "Your father tells me that adding a new line is far from casual. If it was we would have added dozens of lines by now. What compelled you so strongly?"
Her son was silent and looked away from his mother's too knowing gaze. "I saw so many images. There are many timelines and probabilities. It is inexact."
"Then I shall be sure to apply a measure of inexactness to whatever you tell me. What else did you see?" His mother was persistent.
"Hermione standing beside another person embracing that other person. Only probabilities. Not . not certainties or eventualities." Severus admitted.
"Even so." Calliandra persisted. The silence stretched between them.
"Let the boy keep his secrets, Calliandra. We will know the future soon enough." Serjanus winked at his wife.
"It is a faulty vision, a travesty. She barely tolerates me. I feel nothing for her." Severus blurted out.
Calliandra smiled and then said. "The heart is a funny thing. One day indifferent and cold. The next enthralled and blissfully so."
"Mother, please, I'm a living, walking nightmare and that's on my good days!" Severus protested vehemently. "On my bad days, I'm worst than a monster. A relationship with me is hardly a walk in the park."
"You were a monster, Severus. Were, remember that." Advised Serjanus. "By the harshness of your choices have you found yourself again Perhaps it is time to share that self with someone else once again."
"I have never shared nor played well with others, Father, that you cannot deny." Said Severus.
Serjanus moved closer to his son. "Even a sometime monster is deserving of some happiness, Severus. You owe it to yourself to get to know her. She is one of us now. Whatever happens, do not close yourself off from that possibility whether that is with Hermione or someone else."
"And when it does happens, learn from your mother's mistake, don't hesitate. Just let things -" Calliandra was interrupted by Severus' laughing. "What's so funny?"
"Mr.. Mr. Ollivander said the same thing to me."
"Yes, I would expect that he has that particular lesson well learned."
"Calliandra, please, that story is long past and best kept that way." Serjanus pleaded.
"He has done the honorable thing staying away from Hogwarts all these years I'll give him that."
"I don't know about being honorable, but Mr. Ollivander is not staying away. He's living there now."
"What is this?! Minerva hasn't said a word to me."
"It is their business, my dear. If Flavius has decided to woo her again, so be it. And if Minerva finds herself agreeable to the wooing, well, again so be it."
"I can't believe Albus would let such a thing happen."
"Mother, it seemed like it was Albus' idea."
"How could he? How could he stand there and let it happen all over again."
"If I remember correctly, Albus was first in line to kill Flavius - the old fashioned way, mind you. I never thought Albus had it in him."
"I'm going back with you Severus. I want a copy of your working notes. I'll pick up our order at Flourish and Blotts while I'm at it, Serjanus. Severus, give me a few minutes to get ready."
"In that case, I'll excuse myself. I need to get something in my room." Severus left the salon climbing up the stairs two steps at a time.
Serjanus raised his hand out to his wife. "Calliandra, be gentle, please. If they have decided to reach for some happiness at this stage of their lives, who are we to stop them?"
"I just want to ascertain Flavius' intentions." She took his hand in both her hands.
"And if they are the same as before?"
"Well, I'll just have to start a new line, won't I? I'm quite certain that it won't be a line of one for very long."
"Calliandra, what about Minerva? It does take two after all." Serjanus asked.
"Of all her men, Flavius is the only one that has ever mattered. She loses all sense where he is concerned. " Calliandra knelt before her husband giving him all her attention.
"True enough. She has herself stayed clear of him all these years."
"Yes, burying herself in her House duties and pouring all her energies into her students. Why doesn't he just leave her alone?"
"Calliandra, don't . don't discourage Minerva if she has indeed decided to accept Flavius back."
"Give me one good reason not to."
"The cup of life is full of the bitter and the sweet. It is up to us to decide how bitter and how sweet we like it to be. Perhaps, Minerva and Flavius have now decided upon the measure of bitter and sweet that suits them. Who are we, of all people, to take exception to that?"
Calliandra kissed her husband lingeringly on the lips. "Lesson and point understood, Professor Snape."
Hermione collapsed on her bed dead tired. Her roommates hadn't come up yet. They were doing their homework in the common room. Crookshanks licked and nudged her face. With great effort, Hermione stroked his fur. "Oh, Crookshanks, you have no idea of the day I've had." She informed him. She flipped over on her stomach and opened her journal. As she opened it, a letter fell out. She opened it and read it. This was a ritual that she did almost every night before going to bed. No matter how horrid her day had been reading this worn, dog-eared letter always calmed her.
Our dearest Hermione,
Daddy and I thought about your questions and situation for a long time. From what you've said Professor Snape knows his subject but lacks the proper classroom manner to make the class a positive experience. You've also admitted that you've learned more from his classes than any other. Darling, one rarely gets both the cake and the opportunity to eat it. He is the teacher and it is his class. He has delivered on his obligation by imparting his knowledge to unwilling subjects. That is all that he owes you. You, on the other hand, must remember that you are not equals. He is the professor and you are the student. I must admit that your father and I are very much in favor of you having a teacher who does stretch your mind and abilities. We are equally concerned that you may be unhappy. We have some advice that we hope will make things easier.
Be mindful of the time. Hermione, you won't always be at Hogwarts. Enjoy your time there, make friends, learn and grow, find yourself but do not let one person spoil the memories. Real life and adulthood will come quickly enough. It is your time not anyone else's.
Hate the uniform. Respect the wearer. Chances are Professor Snape is well aware of his inadequacies as a teacher. Constantly pointing that out to him will have no effect other than making him more defensive. He must be respected for the fact that he is teaching in spite of his own discomfort doing so.
Change rarely follows your timetable. Please resist your tendency to champion hopeless causes. You cannot impose a change only enable the condition or probability of it happening. Of course, you never know when it will happen. If it happens, good. If not, then it did not. Standing around waiting is a waste of time. Remember, it is your time not anyone else's.
Apply the same patience to people as you do with your studies. You're our only daughter and we love you. But we are not blind either. Your single- minded steadfastness in pursuing anything that fascinates you is a source of pride for us. But people are not books or concepts that can be understood in one sitting or mastered given time. Invest the time to be patient and see them through different views and angles. In the doing, you might be surprised to learn a few things about yourself.
Love always to our daughter of daughters, Mummy and Daddy
Hermione refolded the letter tucking it back into her journal. She flipped to a fresh page and began to write. After a few minutes she was interrupted by a persistent pecking on the window. There was a school owl hovering outside. She opened the window and gave the owl a tasty treat. The owl readily surrendered its parcel. She saw that it was a small booklet as large as her hand. If the leather cover was any judge it was very old. She read his note tucked in the inside front cover: "If you recognize in me the lion in the shadows, then know that I do see in you the true swan in the rushes." On the next page was the book's title - The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Anderson.
"But only in the dark and only during full moons, professor, but I mean to change that you'll see." She whispered as she turned the pages and lost herself in the story. Outside, it had begun snowing.
- * -
Author Notes: I've thrown more than usual into this chapter. As always, comments, questions and critiques are welcomed with open arms.
Enjoy!
mavidian
It was too early. It was too late. One day had begun while another was at an end. It had been a very busy night and the dawn promised no respite from activity. Hogwarts was going to be full of tired people today no question. However, lack of sleep was no excuse for dawdling the day away. There were far too many things to do. Professor Minerva McGonagall checked the sleepers in the Sitters Room before continuing on to the quarters of Severus Snape. They had matters to discuss and to her mind there was no time like the present. She swept into his quarters unannounced and casted a Circle of Anomi. She did not sit nor join Snape in a cup of tea in his bedroom. To her untrained eye, Demos' pod seemed bigger than ever. "Severus, why have you not yet talked with Ms. Granger regarding the Tradition and her new status? They're due back any time now. For that matter, why was I not consulted of your plans for Ms. Granger?"
"Good morning to you too, Minerva." Snape dutifully sipped his tea and made a show of finishing his early breakfast. His minder, Pomfrey's companion, hovered nearby watching his every move. A full and completely consumed breakfast was a requirement he had to fulfill or face the wrath of the nurse. "You were not consulted because I am not under any obligation to do so when it pertains to Tradition matters."
"The welfare of all our students concerns me. Anything that happens to a student concerns me." Minerva's response was terse.
"Especially those of your house." Snape said.
"That goes unsaid. While they are here at Hogwarts they are my responsibility. It is my duty to their parents to see to their children's welfare." McGonagall tersely reminded him. "As to Ms. Granger, did you secure her parents' permission? When I talked to her she was in a quandary as to what to tell her parents."
"No, I did not speak to her parents beforehand. I saw no need. However, I or perhaps Genevieve Longbottom can speak with them when it becomes necessary to do so."
"Severus, I am warning you. Do not dismiss this matter so lightly." Minerva pointed out. "I know you of the Tradition believe that you answer to no one else save yourselves. Her parents are very much involved in her schooling and in her life. I have regular correspondence with them. She is their only child and they are justifiably proud of her. Unlike some muggle parents, they fully support Ms. Granger and do their best to understand our ways. Do not underestimate their influence on their daughter."
"I will take that under advisement. Was there anything else?"
"It is obvious to me that you are on your way to a full recovery." Professor McGonagall said. "Did you fully inform her beforehand of what being bonded within the community of the Tradition entails?"
"No, there was no time."
"Did you get her express and sworn approval before the joining?"
"Not exactly."
"Did you consult with any of the Tradition before making your decision?"
Severus inhaled deeply and wet his lips. He hardened his expression and his spine. He had had enough of being badgered. "As the Keeper, I am well able and expected to make decisions. I am under no geas or stricture requiring that I secure your approval in Tradition matters. Secondly, as Keeper, I am obligated to search for talented students of muggle descent and take steps to insure their continued success and survival. I am here at Hogwarts for that sole purpose. Furthermore, Ms. Granger is of the age of knowledgeable consent."
"In the muggle world she is still a legal minor, Severus." Minerva pointed out. Each stood tense facing off neither one giving the other any room for escaping this confrontation.
"Minerva, I will only say this once so mark my words well. Ms. Granger is one of the most talented and driven students we have had in many years. She has an almost unconscious focus and discipline of mind. No first generation pure muggle wizard or witch has ever attained the level of mastery Ms. Granger has in the few years she has been here. While she is not of the same power level as a pureblood or mixed blood, she compensates by channeling and focusing what power she does have far more precisely and effectively to get the same or better results. Whether that tendency is an accident of genetics or fate, I don't know nor do I care. I suspect that she is unaware of her abilities. I do know that she must be given protection while she learns to use all of her abilities."
"It was not her choice, Severus. You made the choice for her."
"My memory may be failing me but were you given the choice of partners?" Severus stood his ground. "You were not but you accepted, did you not? Brave Gryffindors are so capable of self sacrifice when the reason is heroic enough."
Several expressions flitted across the headmistress' countenance. First was fury, followed by pain then shame. "You cannot always turn a situation to suit you or your needs!"
"If I am allowed to do so, I will and I do as often as I can. What can you expect of me but to take advantage of someone else's culpability and weakness? I am a true Slytherin and as such I firmly believe that the end justifies the means." Snape shot back.
Minerva noticed Severus' apprehensive look. It was there for just a moment before it disappeared once more under his usual sardonic expression. "Taking tips from Albus again. You almost had me believing you. You should have turned away first or made some meaningless comment to deflect further inquiry. Most of all, you should have remembered that I of all people know all of Albus' tricks. There is more to this than what you are claiming."
"Thank you for the critique. I shall make improvements." Said Snape neutrally.
Minerva let the silence stretch between them. The silence confirmed her suspicion. "Severus, it will go no further than this room. I suspect that at some point you will need help. Would it not be easier to have help from a known ally than spare the time to make a new one?" Minerva asked.
"My motives .. sometimes I don't even know what if -" Severus began.
"I'm fresh out of moral judgments, Severus. You won't get any from me." Minerva said.
Snape sighed in resignation yielding to her unassailable logic. He stood and nodded. He informed Demos that he would be in the other room for a while but would return. Snape followed McGonagall into the sitting room. "It started with that first summoning the one that gave rise to Demos. There were unforeseen consequences."
"Aren't there always?" Minerva started a fire and settled herself in for a long story. There was still an hour to go until breakfast.
- * -
Hermione and Neville waited in the salon of the Castell de Remeis for Professor Moody to take them back to Hogwarts. He was upstairs collecting his own things. The view outside the enormous bay window was lovely and more than a little romantic. Castell de Remeis, the Snape's ancestral home, was a working vineyard and winery in the hinterlands of Spain's Andalucia province. The horizon was a band of glorious orange outlining the mountains slowly banishing the evening's dark grip.
Hermione could not stand being inside any longer not when such grandeur beckoned. She opened the French doors and stepped on to the terrace. The property was situated in a valley with mountains all around serving to keep the cold northern winds from taking residence in the valley. Even in deep winter, the air was chilly not icy. Hermione was warm enough with Neville's borrowed woolen robes. Neville was under strict instructions from Professor McGonagall not to let Hermione out his sight on pain of his head of house's considerable ingenuity. He followed her out to the terrace not bothering to stifle a big yawn. He had missed his sleep, his run and was still in his nightclothes. All in all, Neville Longbottom was feeling very out of sorts.
"How can he bear to leave this place?" Hermione opened her arms wide trying to encompass all the beauty around her breathing in the unique crispness of mountain air mixed with the tangy edge of wine, grapes and wood. "It should be a criminal offense to leave."
"Who?" asked Neville rubbing his eyes.
"Professor Snape that's who. If I lived here, I would never leave ever."
"He rarely comes so he rarely has to leave. But you're welcome to return any time you want both of you." Said Calliandra stepping out into the terrace herself. "Return in the spring or the summer. Better yet come during the harvest."
"I'd love to! That's during summer break isn't it?" Hermione smiled at her hostess. "But before I say yes with all my heart, let me ask my parents first."
"As you wish. Alastor is almost ready. Come inside and have some hot chocolate before you leave." Calliandra said invitingly.
As she sipped her hot chocolate, Hermione strolled around the salon looking at the various souvenirs and antiques the Snapes had collected on their travels. An oval frame holding the lone position of honor on the mantel caught her attention. She read the words imperfectly but legibly embroidered within.
By setting sun or waning moon,
One point have I ever steered by
A compass true, a sight adored.
You are the star I have ever wished upon
The only star I truly chose to see,
My heart's choice, my soul's promise.
After all has been said and done
You are forever you and I remain as I
Man and woman, earth and sky.
We circle, we dance, we gaze
One to the other and no one else
And this will never change.
Calliandra sat on the edge of the sofa looking bemusedly at Hermione. "That was Serjanus' one and only attempt at poetry. It was also my first and last attempt at embroidery."
"It's beautiful." Hermione fingered the none too steady stitching. "You're very lucky to have someone love you that much."
"It's only a little bit of luck. It's mostly compromise, communication and commitment all the time, every day non stop." Calliandra said.
"And forgetting all the arguments you have ever lost as soon as you have lost them." Serjanus Snape wheeled himself into the room. "I have certainly lost more than I have won."
They all laughed. Alastor Moody appeared in the doorway. "Come on now it's time." He said to Hermione and Neville. As Hermione passed in front of her Calliandra Snape handed a silver and cream envelope to her.
"When you see Severus please give him this from me." She instructed.
"Oh, the letter's from you." Seeing Mrs. Snape's puzzled look she explained further. "Professor Snape had me find an envelope in his desk. It was just like this one. I was supposed to deliver it to him while he was in isolation in the Counsel room but I still have it. He must be furious."
"Severus has not had opportunity to read my first letter?" Calliandra asked.
"No and it's my fault. I just kept forgetting about it. That's not like me at all." Hermione replied. "I'm so sorry!"
"It's all right. It just calls for a strategic change in tactics." Serjanus and Calliandra exchanged a glance heavy with meaning. Professor Moody caught the look and sat himself on an armchair knowing that they were not going to get out of there until both Snapes had had their chance to interrogate the two Gryffindors.
"So, Hermione, has Severus recovered from his isolation in the Room of Counsel of all places?" Asked Serjanus very carefully. Calliandra had moved so as to sandwich the two young people between her and her husband.
"As far as we know Nurse Pomfrey hasn't released him yet." Hermione answered.
"I don't know why he doesn't just come here to recover from his regular bouts with exhaustion. It is just exhaustion isn't it, Neville?" Calliandra probed.
Neville flushed caught between the rock formed by his mentor's parents and his loyalty to that same mentor. "It's not just exhaustion. But it's not for me to say. Or for Hermione either."
"I see. Thank you, Neville. I will . we will make sure to talk with Severus very soon." Said Serjanus now looking far more serious than they had ever seen him before. He turned his wheelchair around and slowly moved closer to the hearth with his back to them.
"Now, it is definitely time for you to go. Breakfast is only a few hours away." Said Mrs. Snape. "Hermione, please make very sure Severus gets that letter first thing and thank you. Alastor, get a move on will you."
After Moody, Hermione and Neville had apparated, Calliandra looked at her husband. His face was a mixture of worry and fury. Right now fury was winning and by a large margin. She was not feeling too calm herself. What has Severus been up to? Serjanus summoned their house owls Echo and Dante to deliver a summons to their only child. One owl to return confirming delivery while the other owl stayed on to hound and harass the recipient until the summons had been met. Yes, they knew their son all too well.
- * -
Professor McGonagall and Mr. Filch welcomed the three back to Hogwarts. In contrast to the vigor of her head of house, Hermione's earlier elation was rapidly being overtaken by exhaustion. She was finding that youth and strength of will could carry one only so far. Each step was heavy but necessary. Professor McGonagall conjured up extra cloaks for Neville and Hermione.
"Alastor, your rooms are ready. Did you have a good visit with Serjanus and Calliandra?" Professor McGonagall asked.
"Better than I expected. Calliandra was able to make the adjustments on my eye. It's going to be much more useful now!" Moody said the words with such relish that McGonagall glanced at him with some alarm.
"More useful?" she inquired.
"Very inventive that woman!" Moody chose not to elaborate. He started catching up with Filch.
Professor McGonagall turned her attention to her two charges. Neville was muttering to himself nonstop. She assumed he must be reciting some memory exercises. Hermione was almost sleepwalking. "Ms. Granger, I had a talk with Professor Snape this morning. He would like to see you after your first class."
"So he does, does he? Well, he'll have to wait. I'm exhausted. I have a study period after first class and I intend to have a nap." Hermione snapped the words out. "After all the time that I had to wait for him, he could certainly wait for me. I refuse to be a beggar to the altar of his convenience!"
Taken aback by Hermione's outburst but not fully surprised given the events of the last 24 hours Professor McGonagall let the subject drop. Severus will have to find his own way to make amends with this one she thought. She had a feeling he was going to need help sooner rather than later. Hermione fished out an envelope from inside her robes and handed it to Professor McGonagall. "Please give this to Professor Snape, professor. I really cannot face him right now. I might fall dead asleep on my face."
"Ah, another one of Calliandra's missives. I shall see that he gets it, Ms. Granger. Rest assured." McGonagall put the letter away. The adults carried on their own animated conversation the rest of the way while the younger set trudged along in their wake. They separated and scattered in the main hall.
"It's a ruddy conspiracy!" Neville muttered under his breath. The late night activities had finally caught up with him too. Unlike his companion, lack of sleep made Neville depressed not cranky. Neville in the grips of depression was not good company for human or beast. "Neville do this. Neville do that. Neville blow up that cauldron. Neville look like an idiot."
"Shush! You want to get us caught?" Hermione asked.
"First my grandmother, then Snape, now you. My life is a one long running cosmic joke with the punch line gone on permanent holiday." Despite the incessant commentary, Neville did keep moving following in Hermione's wake.
"Wallow in self pity on your own time, Neville. I'm not enjoying this at all."
"Couldn't tell by your expression."
"Your new attitude while refreshing in its newness pales quickly." Hermione opened the door to Gryffindor tower.
"My attitude !? That's rich coming from you." Neville ducked through the portrait door.
"Watch it, Neville! You are forgiven this time seeing as you haven't had your caffeine overdose yet."
"I shouldn't have had that hot chocolate on an empty stomach." Neville mumbled rubbing his stomach as he made his way up the stairs to the boys dormitory.
"Spare me." Hermione quietly walked up the steps to her dormitory. In her current mood, she would have preferred to stomp her way up but she just did not have the energy to follow through.
- * -
Breakfast at Hogwarts was normally a pleasant affair. However this morning it was decidedly abnormal. First off, the headmaster was not in his usual seat. In fact there were far too many empty seats at the high table - Professors Flitwick, Sprout and Snape. Professor McGonagall had arrived late herself. Most of the staff and faculty were moving at slow speed themselves. Many yawned and large pitchers of coffee kept appearing and disappearing. One thing remained the same though - the owl posts. Two large brown and gray hawk owls alighted on Professor Snape normal seat. They did not look too pleased to find a vacant chair. Professor McGonagall went and attended to them. One owl gave her his message. She scrawled an answer and tied it back on Echo who lifted off again.
Knowing the routine, McGonagall addressed the remaining owl Dante and said "I'll take you to him right after breakfast. Come with me and have some bacon."
"Hagrid's cancelled our first class today Care for Magical Creatures." Said Harry reading his mail. He turned his head to the right thinking that he had just heard Hermione moan. "Excuse me, Hermione. Did you just say something?"
"Just that I could have used another hour of sleep." Hermione answered.
"You're looking more horrible than usual, Granger. You mudbloods need your beauty sleep far more than the rest of us." drawled Draco Malfoy. Crabbe and Goyle were as usual little more than scowling gargoyles standing sentry beside him. Ron and Harry were already moving to stand by Hermione.
"Well, pureblood, we're not all blessed with brains, looks and wit. I admit I'm quite lacking but I'm puzzled as to what YOUR excuse could possibly be." Hermione remained in her seat eating her breakfast. Neville sat opposite her equally unconcerned.
Draco's eyes narrowed and his nostrils flared not so much because of what she said but because her seemingly indifferent posture was something he had not expected nor found to be much to his liking. He tried a different tactic. "Having too many extracurricular activities of the nighttime variety?"
"I guess I'm just exceedingly popular, Draco" Hermione lowered her voice and practically purred. Harry and Ron stood frozen. They had never heard that tone of voice from her before. And she never called Draco by his first name. What's this about nighttime activities? With her back to her male audience none of them could see the mischievous set to her lips. She stood up and faced them at last. She got close very close to Draco and said. "But you know what a burden popularity can be, don't you Draco? We all do our part but it's so hard."
Her comments were aimed to confuse, belittle and pull his tail a bit. It succeeded in all parts. Draco saw the same old defiant Granger standing before him. He heard the same superior bossy tone of voice. But there was something else, something new. There was a lack of her usual tense indignation whenever the word mudblood was said or implied in her vicinity. Her eyes answered his taunting with a blatant challenge that seemed to say "Go ahead and dare me but you had better be able to take it." Draco got the distinct and uncomfortable feeling that Granger could prove her words and then some. Feeling outnumbered and outgunned appearances to the contrary Draco retreated with ill grace. He and his entourage turned and left the hall without a word.
Harry and Ron were both gaping at her. Well, Ron was gaping. Harry was introspective. Hermione said simply "What? I just got tired of being provoked all the time. I kept making a big fuss about it They kept at it knowing it would always get a reaction. So, I have stopped fussing about it."
"Makes sense." Ron said.
"Still, Hermione, that was unusual." Said Harry. "Unusual for you I mean."
"I had to do something. You can't always be defending me." Hermione explained.
"We're always going to be here for you, Hermione." Said Harry.
"I know. I know you'll always try your best. But you have to admit it's much more fun to get the best of Draco as often as possible." Said Hermione gently turning the subject away from a potential minefield that she wasn't ready to cross with her friends yet to the more familiar path that they were all comfortable with.
"Yeah, but nothing beats the bouncing ferret bit. That is a true classic." Ron added. The three of them left the Great Hall heading for Gryffindor tower.
- * -
Professor McGonagall carried Dante on one arm. A small cream envelope dangled from one of its claws. They found Professor Snape in the Sitters Room. Dante immediately flew to Snape. The five sitters were in deep sleep. They would all be very weak when they awoke. She went to each one adjusting blankets and pillows. Sprout and Flamel looked little change from the last time she had checked on them. Flitwick was a restless sleeper. Most of his pillows were on the floor about his camp bed. Flavius did not look very comfortable either. She adjusted his pillow a little and got another blanket to put over him. "How much longer, Severus?"
"Not much. Having these five in particular is more than sufficient power. The Tree of Blessings is almost at its correct growth level." Said Snape continuing to take measurements ignoring Dante. It was taking him three times as long and more spell work than usual without Demos to help. The owl was used to Snape's treatment and flew a few circles about him before settling down on a table to stare unblinkingly at the potions master. It's eyes followed Snape about the room.
"What about tonight? Sybil has informed me that she is getting four sitters tonight." Minerva said putting a pillow by Dumbledore's side. Albus looked the least restful of them. He must be having bad dreams again, she thought.
"I agree. It's best to be cautious at this stage. Has the Ministry made any inquiries this morning?"
"Fortunately not. No one outside of ourselves know about the events last night." Minerva took out the envelope from her robes and held it out. "However, that is the least of your problems. Here's another letter."
Snape looked at the letter as if it were a highly undesirable object that he would sooner flee from than run headlong into. "Alastor informed me that your parents now know you are in isolation. Naturally, they have questions. Don't blame Neville or Hermione they were just answering their questions." McGonagall informed him.
"No, I don't blame anyone but myself. My delays in my normal correspondence has surely tipped them off that something is amiss." Severus opened the envelope. The gist of the long note ordered him to speak with Hermione immediately and spare her at least 30 minutes of his valuable time. He went to Dante and retrieved the letter that he carried. The second letter was quite brief in contrast to the first. It was in his father's hand. It said simply "Be here 3pm sharp." This was not an invitation. This was a summons.
"Well, I will take care of the first request once Ms. Granger is finished with her first class -" Severus began.
"No, you won't. Ms. Granger is exhausted and will be using her study period for a nap. A well deserved nap." Minerva interrupted him.
"I shall make it a point to consult her social calendar before I set up another meeting with her." Severus replied. "It will have to be right after lunch. That is if she can spare me a moment."
"I'll let her know." Minerva replied.
- * -
After her History of Magic class, Hermione made her way to the Room of Counsel. He was there on one side of the table waiting for her. Strangely enough a brown owl flitted about the large room. She took a seat opposite him.
"I thought this place would be a more fitting atmosphere for our talk. Are you ready for me now, Ms. Granger?"
"Yes, I believe I am. The owl, professor?"
"Ignore it. I do. Now I realize that you are quite understandably upset that we . I simply foisted the Tradition upon you without asking first and -"
"I'm not upset, professor. Not anymore." Hermione interrupted him.
"You're not?"
"I don't agree with the method but I think that if you had asked me first I might have been too intimidated to accept. Perhaps it was best it happened this way."
"A very mature outlook."
"Oh, don't get the idea that you've been forgiven. I've simply decided it's a waste of time to dwell on it."
"I see."
"Do you? I admit I was shocked by it all. The first congratulatory owl I got was from Neville's grandmother followed by all the rest. In the last few hours I've realized that what I really wanted to do was to thank you, professor."
That was the last thing Severus Snape expected Hermione Granger to say to him especially to his face. He barely got the words out. "Thank me for what?"
"For letting a muggle nobody feel like a somebody in the wizarding world." Said Hermione. "You don't understand what it's like to be different and have people reminding you all the time that you're different. You start thinking that there's something wrong or missing with you but you never find out what it is."
"You're wrong there," Severus said the words so softly that she strained to hear him. "Everyone has felt the same way as you have for different reasons but the feelings are still the same."
"You're probably right. But there I've said it. Thank you."
"I did not make an exception to please you but if that is a side benefit so be it and you're welcome." Snape stood up and faced her his hands clasped behind him. "My reasons are entirely selfish. What I am about to tell you stays here and between us only. I will never repeat any of what I am about to tell you now."
Snape took a deep breath before going on. "You are an exceptional student. We both know that. But that is not why I chose you. You have shown bravery, ingenuity and magical skill. But I did not choose you for any of those traits. I chose you because you are muggle born."
Snape did not have to wait long for her reaction. "Yes, that which has made you different is also that which makes you special. There has been much study made of muggle born wizards and witches. There is a pattern that applies to them. The first generation shows the least amount of magical talent and proficiency. If that witch or wizard marries another magical person, then their offspring will have the same power levels as that of a half muggle, half wizard person. And this level continues into the fourth generation. By the time the fifth generation is raised, the overall power level and proficiency has reached the same level as one with no muggle blood whatsoever assuming that marriages continue to be with other wizards and witches."
Snape sat on the edge of the table facing her with arms crossed across his chest. "Five generations is a long time. With more witches and wizards marrying muggles there are fewer and fewer wizards and witches who are in the higher echelons of power and skill. More rely on gadgets and inventions to do their magic for them from omnioculars to broomsticks. The old knowledge and arts are being left behind. And why not when there are paraphernalia that would do the same things and available for purchase in Diagon Alley. The old magic is rigorous to learn, require great discipline of mind and enormous strength of will to wield properly and safely. The Tradition has over the years passed the old arts and the disciplines down from one generation to another. Our primary purpose is to preserve that knowledge. Our secondary purpose is the protection of Hogwarts. Our third purpose is to identify and mentor promising muggle born wizards and witches with the goal of their successful assimilation into wizarding society. There are other responsibilities but those are the most central to the Tradition's philosophy. This is where you come in, Ms. Granger."
"In you all three goals are uniquely combined. Your aptitude and inclinations are, I believe, superbly suited to the understanding of knowledge and its applications. You proved your commitment to Hogwarts by handling anything the Club has asked of you. Over the last few years, your talents both magical and intellectual have been amply demonstrated. Being muggle born is an advantage. You are not handicapped with the prejudices learned and bred through generations of witches and wizards. That plus your inherent aptitude would be an asset. But none of that together or alone necessitated joining you to the Tradition. I could easily have mentored you or made you aware of the Tradition without actually joining your family lines with ours. I bound you to the Tradition for one reason. We need you. We need what you can add to enrich our collective. As I said, it is a purely selfish reason."
It was all too much for Hermione to completely comprehend all at once. But she still had the presence of mind to squeak out. "What would I bring into the . the collective, professor? What would I do?"
"I need you to learn the old ways, Ms. Granger, to learn and surpass your teachers in every way. It has always been a fact that females have more of a natural affinity for them than the males. You will find that the Tradition has very few young people. Voldemort dispatched many of those who could or were raising young families. There is a very real danger to the dissolution of our knowledge simply because there is no one to hand down the knowledge to. You know that I am mentoring Neville. His parents did not . were not given the time to teach him so I am doing what I can to do what they would have done. I would like to do the same with you if you are agreeable to it."
"You're giving me a choice?" She asked incredulously. "How Machiavellian of you! Make the offer so irresistible that it can't be refused. You really don't change do you?"
"I will not apologize for my actions. I feel that I was within my right and responsibility to -'
"To secure the needed object by whatever means necessary." Hermione finished the thought for him.
"Absolutely. I do what I must. I accept who and what I am, Ms. Granger. How others see me is of no import to me." Snape pulled out a chair and sat opposite her.
"I never know where I stand with you. You go forwards and backwards on me in the blink of an eye. You compliment me and then treat me as some object to be acquired and used up. You allow me a glimpse into a world that I had never thought to belong in and then slam the door in my face."
"My first responsibility is to the Tradition. Nothing says I have to be nice or considerate to achieve my goals. I've given you the key and it's up to you to open that door again should you choose." Snape replied.
"It's not much of a choice! By refusing I would lose so much. By agreeing I gain even more than I would ever lose." Said Hermione. "Why the pretense of making it my choice? It was never my choice."
"Everything in life is a choice, Ms. Granger, especially the ones where there seems to be only one eventuality. But what you make of that choice will say more about you than about me. The Tradition and I will demand much from you. What will you make of it? How committed will you be? Your life will change. Can you adapt? How much do you want it?"
Hermione stood up and walked around the table gazing at everything but seeing nothing. "How committed will you be to me?"
"What you want of me is yours. You will never be alone. All in the Tradition protect each other sometimes even above their own blood relatives." Snape answered.
"Will you share? Learn from me as I will learn from you?"
"I will share what I can. That will have to suffice." Severus asked.
"This is all for the Tradition? Is there anything for you?"
"I am the Keeper. I forgot that once and it took me some time to remember. Now that I do remember I have no intention of wasting time. I need an answer, Ms. Granger. What will it be?" Snape looked her straight and held her gaze. "In or out?"
"You give me no guarantees and I want none. I'm in but on one condition." She had completed a full circuit around the table and returned to her starting point.
"Which is?"
"You visit Castell de Remeis more often at least every four months. Perhaps your mother wouldn't be so hard on you if you did." Hermione held out her hand. "Do we have a deal?"
"Why this particular condition?" As he asked the question, he shook her hand firmly.
"Your home is a beautiful place and very restorative. It's obvious your mother misses you and that you're probably miserable here. I would be if I had to leave a place like that. But I know that you're needed here more." She added. "In fact, if you're not more careful, Professor, one could mistake you for a Gryffindor - all foolhardy bravery and self sacrifice in the name of the cause and no sense."
Severus scowled but Hermione could see it wasn't his trademark, genuine Snape scowl. "Only in the dark, Ms. Granger. And only during full moons."
Hermione smiled impishly. "You're deep in denial so be it."
"You are meddling as usual," Replied Snape.
"I have a class to go to in a few minutes, professor."
"Of course. I'll send a lesson schedule much like I have with Neville. We will have to think of a good cover for your new project."
"Professor, I prefer to keep this as secret as possible for a while at least until I can tell my parents."
"Understood. I will ask Genevieve Longbottom to speak discreetly with your parents. Would you prefer to be there with us and tell them together?" Severus asked her.
"Yes I would. I really have to go now." Hermione straightened her robes.
"And I have an owl to attend to. Have a good day, Ms. Granger." Their eyes remained locked for a minute longer and for once the potions master and the know-it-all were in full agreement.
- * -
Severus could not put off answering his parents' summons much longer. Dante shadowed him everywhere. He changed his clothes and checked on Demos before apparating to Castell de Remeis. It was ten minutes to three. His parents awaited him in the salon.
"Start at the beginning, Severus." Serjanus instructed.
"Do fill us in on whatever else you're doing for whatsisname." Added Calliandra.
Severus sat himself down on the sofa stretching out and getting comfortable. "It all started when Voldemort found some research notes on the Consula Econtra."
"The original Egyptian?" asked Serjanus.
"Yes and some of it had been translated to high Latin. It was not complete though. I filled in the pieces as best I could. At the same time I realized that some of the research could be applied to the problem we had with the Blessing of Benevolence. As you know, we decided to pursue the theory of binding Hogwarts to a living, organic object and imbuing that object with the necessary intelligence and sentient ability to protect Hogwarts adjusting and changing in ways that the old blessing never could do. Cera handled the research on the appropriate target object. Flitwick managed the spell matrix to enable the eventual transfer of protection from the Blessing to the target object. Minerva and Cera then devised the actual structure for what has now become the Tree of Blessings. Through my work on the Consula Econtra I devised what I thought at the time was the ideal solution providing both docile sentience and a self-renewing energy source. What you do not know is that on my first attempt at demon summoning -"
"Oh, Severus! Didn't all my stories about that scare you enough as a child?" said Calliandra. "I had hoped you wouldn't follow in my example."
"The apple doesn't fall too far nor does it always roll in the direction we want it to." Serjanus commented dryly.
"I would have been better served if I had remembered some of your stories. I botched my first summoning. Botched there is no other word for it. I summoned a demon that was too powerful for what I needed. I was not prepared. I summoned an Oldest about a thousand years old. I had intended only to leech enough of its energy for my needs. But the vessel I chose to house that energy was insufficient to the purpose. I missed the reasoning that energy from a sentient being needed an organic host. During the summoning I knew things were not going right. I was causing the demon pain as I fought to control it. But I was stubborn. I did not stop. I took more and more of its energy and losing control of it all the longer I went. The energy had nowhere to go. I by default became the host."
"A siphon conducting and absorbing directly from the demon." Commented Calliandra.
"Yes. The demon could not sustain itself as it was losing progressively more energy and tiring of the battle. As it discorporated I lapsed into unconsciousness. Poppy was there and she knows better than I the series of events after I became unconscious. She woke me up. But during the period of time that I was out I believe I went time walking. Never having done it before I believe it is what you've described doing, Father."
"Multiple timelines flashing by while you're on the psychic bridge? Disorientation and displacement?" As Severus nodded, Serjanus sighed. "What's done is done. What do you remember of that?"
"Images from timelines past, present and future too much to remember in detail. I have found myself compelled to act a certain way or making decisions based on the occasional flash of conscious insight. I cross the line between rationality and inevitability time and again."
"If it's any consolation, the psychic displacement should ebb and fade in about a month time." Serjanus had an intent analytical look about him that Severus knew all too well.
"Severus, I have not experienced nor know of any attempts similar to what you tried to do with the Consula Econtra. What physical manifestations have resulted? Don't tell me none. You cannot have dispatched with all that energy and have it go off into nothing." Calliandra said.
"The energy displaced and disowned came to me. Poppy said that she saw the demon's resonant imprint enter me during my lapse. She was proven right. We found the next day that I had acquired a second self, a shadow that is part of me yet separate."
"Is it sentient?" asked Serjanus.
"Yes, very but childlike in many ways. It can converse and comprehend. It has its own volition. It has form and substance. It has a name Demos. Demos and I could only be apart for a few hours before I would start experiencing pain." Snape said.
"All right. Let's see it then." Calliandra made her wand ready. "Summon it please."
"I can't not now. Until a week ago we were inseparable. Mr. Flamel separated us during the cleansing ritual and -" Another slight half truth there Severus thought.
"Wait! Nicholas?! Nicholas' has left his enclave willingly? What has been going on at Hogwarts?!" Serjanus was now visibly agitated.
"The headmaster invited him to serve as a consultant on the Tree of Blessings." There that wasn't a lie with enough truth to be believable. "I collapsed due to exhaustion and from the after effects of my first and second summonings."
"Second? The first wasn't enough of an experience?!" asked his mother.
Severus sat upright before continuing. "You are aware of the companions. It was through my second attempt at which time I had perfected my methods that they came to be. The summoning and the invocation were successful. I did not kill the demon either. The considerable energy left over was used to imbue the seed pod of the Blessing Tree with sentience and awareness."
"So, you have one demon in your charge and another in thrall to you? Do I have that right?" asked Calliandra now pacing the floor thinking out loud. She looked at him intently reading his aura and other signs about him that would indicate his general health. "The cleansing ritual was a success I take it. I see none of the usual dark arts residue about you."
"Yes to both questions. I feel much improved. Poppy released me from isolation before I came here."
"You should have come here. Your mother or I are equally capable of performing the cleansing. Don't say that you were thinking me too frail, Severus, or that your mother could not be spared from my side. It is not your responsibility to protect us. It is however our responsibility to protect you." Serjanus said the words in a light tone but the lesson was very clear. "We are here for you and you need only make use of us."
"You have done more than enough for me."
"Severus, there is no bottom to what we will do for you. When you have your own children you will realize how true that is." Said Calliandra sitting down next to her well meaning but misguided son at least where his parents were concerned. "Speaking of children, have you spoken with Hermione?"
"As instructed, yes."
"Severus, what are the reasons why you elected to join Hermione with the Tradition?" Serjanus asked. "In light of what you have just told us I have to wonder if this was a conscious, practical decision or something else?"
Damn his father's eyes! He could always see right through him. You told Minerva you had better tell them his conscience advised. "While I was time walking, I saw Hermione standing by the library summoning books out of it as if she was born to do so."
"So you decided to help spur the future on by making an exception?" Serjanus deduced. "Half compulsion, half conscious choice?"
"Yes, she already shows remarkable capabilities. I strongly feel that the old ways will come very naturally to her once she learns of it. Perhaps it was a fateful compulsion I don't know." Said Severus.
"What more did you see? About Hermione, I mean." As usual his mother was too perceptive by half. "Your father tells me that adding a new line is far from casual. If it was we would have added dozens of lines by now. What compelled you so strongly?"
Her son was silent and looked away from his mother's too knowing gaze. "I saw so many images. There are many timelines and probabilities. It is inexact."
"Then I shall be sure to apply a measure of inexactness to whatever you tell me. What else did you see?" His mother was persistent.
"Hermione standing beside another person embracing that other person. Only probabilities. Not . not certainties or eventualities." Severus admitted.
"Even so." Calliandra persisted. The silence stretched between them.
"Let the boy keep his secrets, Calliandra. We will know the future soon enough." Serjanus winked at his wife.
"It is a faulty vision, a travesty. She barely tolerates me. I feel nothing for her." Severus blurted out.
Calliandra smiled and then said. "The heart is a funny thing. One day indifferent and cold. The next enthralled and blissfully so."
"Mother, please, I'm a living, walking nightmare and that's on my good days!" Severus protested vehemently. "On my bad days, I'm worst than a monster. A relationship with me is hardly a walk in the park."
"You were a monster, Severus. Were, remember that." Advised Serjanus. "By the harshness of your choices have you found yourself again Perhaps it is time to share that self with someone else once again."
"I have never shared nor played well with others, Father, that you cannot deny." Said Severus.
Serjanus moved closer to his son. "Even a sometime monster is deserving of some happiness, Severus. You owe it to yourself to get to know her. She is one of us now. Whatever happens, do not close yourself off from that possibility whether that is with Hermione or someone else."
"And when it does happens, learn from your mother's mistake, don't hesitate. Just let things -" Calliandra was interrupted by Severus' laughing. "What's so funny?"
"Mr.. Mr. Ollivander said the same thing to me."
"Yes, I would expect that he has that particular lesson well learned."
"Calliandra, please, that story is long past and best kept that way." Serjanus pleaded.
"He has done the honorable thing staying away from Hogwarts all these years I'll give him that."
"I don't know about being honorable, but Mr. Ollivander is not staying away. He's living there now."
"What is this?! Minerva hasn't said a word to me."
"It is their business, my dear. If Flavius has decided to woo her again, so be it. And if Minerva finds herself agreeable to the wooing, well, again so be it."
"I can't believe Albus would let such a thing happen."
"Mother, it seemed like it was Albus' idea."
"How could he? How could he stand there and let it happen all over again."
"If I remember correctly, Albus was first in line to kill Flavius - the old fashioned way, mind you. I never thought Albus had it in him."
"I'm going back with you Severus. I want a copy of your working notes. I'll pick up our order at Flourish and Blotts while I'm at it, Serjanus. Severus, give me a few minutes to get ready."
"In that case, I'll excuse myself. I need to get something in my room." Severus left the salon climbing up the stairs two steps at a time.
Serjanus raised his hand out to his wife. "Calliandra, be gentle, please. If they have decided to reach for some happiness at this stage of their lives, who are we to stop them?"
"I just want to ascertain Flavius' intentions." She took his hand in both her hands.
"And if they are the same as before?"
"Well, I'll just have to start a new line, won't I? I'm quite certain that it won't be a line of one for very long."
"Calliandra, what about Minerva? It does take two after all." Serjanus asked.
"Of all her men, Flavius is the only one that has ever mattered. She loses all sense where he is concerned. " Calliandra knelt before her husband giving him all her attention.
"True enough. She has herself stayed clear of him all these years."
"Yes, burying herself in her House duties and pouring all her energies into her students. Why doesn't he just leave her alone?"
"Calliandra, don't . don't discourage Minerva if she has indeed decided to accept Flavius back."
"Give me one good reason not to."
"The cup of life is full of the bitter and the sweet. It is up to us to decide how bitter and how sweet we like it to be. Perhaps, Minerva and Flavius have now decided upon the measure of bitter and sweet that suits them. Who are we, of all people, to take exception to that?"
Calliandra kissed her husband lingeringly on the lips. "Lesson and point understood, Professor Snape."
Hermione collapsed on her bed dead tired. Her roommates hadn't come up yet. They were doing their homework in the common room. Crookshanks licked and nudged her face. With great effort, Hermione stroked his fur. "Oh, Crookshanks, you have no idea of the day I've had." She informed him. She flipped over on her stomach and opened her journal. As she opened it, a letter fell out. She opened it and read it. This was a ritual that she did almost every night before going to bed. No matter how horrid her day had been reading this worn, dog-eared letter always calmed her.
Our dearest Hermione,
Daddy and I thought about your questions and situation for a long time. From what you've said Professor Snape knows his subject but lacks the proper classroom manner to make the class a positive experience. You've also admitted that you've learned more from his classes than any other. Darling, one rarely gets both the cake and the opportunity to eat it. He is the teacher and it is his class. He has delivered on his obligation by imparting his knowledge to unwilling subjects. That is all that he owes you. You, on the other hand, must remember that you are not equals. He is the professor and you are the student. I must admit that your father and I are very much in favor of you having a teacher who does stretch your mind and abilities. We are equally concerned that you may be unhappy. We have some advice that we hope will make things easier.
Be mindful of the time. Hermione, you won't always be at Hogwarts. Enjoy your time there, make friends, learn and grow, find yourself but do not let one person spoil the memories. Real life and adulthood will come quickly enough. It is your time not anyone else's.
Hate the uniform. Respect the wearer. Chances are Professor Snape is well aware of his inadequacies as a teacher. Constantly pointing that out to him will have no effect other than making him more defensive. He must be respected for the fact that he is teaching in spite of his own discomfort doing so.
Change rarely follows your timetable. Please resist your tendency to champion hopeless causes. You cannot impose a change only enable the condition or probability of it happening. Of course, you never know when it will happen. If it happens, good. If not, then it did not. Standing around waiting is a waste of time. Remember, it is your time not anyone else's.
Apply the same patience to people as you do with your studies. You're our only daughter and we love you. But we are not blind either. Your single- minded steadfastness in pursuing anything that fascinates you is a source of pride for us. But people are not books or concepts that can be understood in one sitting or mastered given time. Invest the time to be patient and see them through different views and angles. In the doing, you might be surprised to learn a few things about yourself.
Love always to our daughter of daughters, Mummy and Daddy
Hermione refolded the letter tucking it back into her journal. She flipped to a fresh page and began to write. After a few minutes she was interrupted by a persistent pecking on the window. There was a school owl hovering outside. She opened the window and gave the owl a tasty treat. The owl readily surrendered its parcel. She saw that it was a small booklet as large as her hand. If the leather cover was any judge it was very old. She read his note tucked in the inside front cover: "If you recognize in me the lion in the shadows, then know that I do see in you the true swan in the rushes." On the next page was the book's title - The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Anderson.
"But only in the dark and only during full moons, professor, but I mean to change that you'll see." She whispered as she turned the pages and lost herself in the story. Outside, it had begun snowing.
- * -
Author Notes: I've thrown more than usual into this chapter. As always, comments, questions and critiques are welcomed with open arms.
Enjoy!
mavidian