Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, or anything relating to it. I do however own any characters you have not heard of before in the books.
A/N:
Sorry about the long wait. I spent ages planning out my chapters so I know what's happening, believe me kiddies there will be some BIG twists in this story! You won't notice now, but by the end you will. Oooooh… I'm so excited!
You can't imagine how long it takes me to type up these chapters. Why can't they invent things that read your handwriting then publish them?
You will now notice that there is a more sophisticated and mature tone in the story. That's what fine-tuning does to ya!
Enough jibbering! On with the show!
CHAPTER 5- SERPENT FEARS
---
Exhausted, Snape watched the hands of the clock in the corner of his bedroom. It had been four hours since he had met Jane in his own living room, and time seemed to be dragging on.
Normally Snape would go into his office and read when he couldn't sleep. This time it was different. Every time he thought of passing through the living room, the images of the wounded Jane would freshen in his mind. For some unknown reason he felt as if her accident had been his fault- what ever it was.
Nine O'clock.
Relieved to escape the eeriness of his cold room, Snape wearily raised himself and forced on his robes.
Dragging his feet, he cautiously swept into the living room, to be met by the silent hissing of a dieing fire, and the whispering breath of sleeping Jane.
She lay slumped in his armchair, hair messily slung over her tipping head. Her eyes were scored with blackness. Fever bound them shut. She suddenly turned, shuddering in her induced sleep. Snape's black robes had fallen off her injured arm, presenting her surprisingly clean silvery dress. It also revealed her wound, which now was portraying an unhealthy green tinge. Poisoned.
Shaking his head with relentless pity over the dishevelled former enemy, he decided to leave her sleeping. He would have to gain access to more bandages, after breakfast. Re-draping the borrowed robe over her, he swiftly left the room, his robes billowing.
As he swung the doors to the Great Hall open, he heard his own footsteps echo in a sudden silence.
Frozen in place, the teachers stared at him. Clearly, judging by their guilty expressions, they had been talking about him.
His lips curled with distaste.
As he met them at the table they broke from their trance, noticing how suspicious they must appear. As Snape sunk into his seat, and quietly spread himself some toast, he could feel the corners of their eyes observing him with curiosity. Strange.
"Erm… so… has anyone seen Jane?" blurted out Flitwick with a squeak.
No one turned to look at the pint-sized man, clearly all wondering the same thing.
"Shall I check her quarters?" offered Professor Sinstra smoothly.
Snape's head began to pound a record speed.
He had forgotten about the finalisation made on the morrow of yesterday.
What could he do? He knew that if they went looking for her, they would find her, injured, in his living room. How would that look to an ignorant stranger?
Squinting his eyes in concentration, and planning an excuse, Snape looked around in panic. Gripping the table with his hands, he snarled. Whether he liked it or not they were going to find out.
His jaw slackened from its compulsive clenching to allow him to speak. He was interrupted surprisingly when he opened his mouth to respond.
It was the doors that swung open and slammed that interrupted the inevitable.
All eyes left Snape and moved to the door. There, was the silhouette of the ever-familiar Jane.
Snape's eyes never moved, as he forced them forwards in mock surprise, but he could tell that all were gawking. Her empty steps rang through the hall, followed by a distinct thump.
Jane appeared somewhat different. Still wearing the borrowed black robe, her right arm clung tightly to a staff.
Unsure of where the staff had come from Snape assumed that she had used it to reach his quarters. Tall and pewter in colour, emblazoned upon it was intaglio of a winding snake, and the fierce head of a griffin. On the very top though, was a crystal dove.
Along with the coat, it caused Jane to appear darker than her usual light personality. Her sweeping hair fell over her right side, cleverly disguising the long cut which engraved itself upon her cheek. As she approached them with a smile, Snape could see under the long robe a slight limp.
"Ah, Miss Jane, Welcome back! In one piece I see. I must say you did have us all oh-so worried," smiled Dumbledore, arms open with joy.
The fellow staff seemed somewhat relieved as well, and had quite forgotten their usual attentive and anticipating stare which was unleashed whenever Snape and Jane sat next to one another during mealtimes. Jane clumsily dropped in her seat and grimaced at Snape.
"I really need to remember to ask what I'm drinking before it is offered to me," she said, shaking her head.
……………………………………………….
It was dark, and the familiar excited chatter of school children filled the Great Hall, as all filed in to their usual seats at their house tables.
Snape caught snatches of conversation on what thrilling and exciting adventures had met the students during their summer holidays.
He shifted in his seat uncomfortably when he caught the ever watchful and attentive stare of one Sila Green. Miss Green was an intelligent and thoughtful student, and a member of his house, Slytherin. Being in the sixth year, however Snape was reminded about her six years of torture, as Miss Green was VERY inquisitive and had a passion for spreading mayhem- on him.
The talking died as Professor McGonagall strode into the room, followed by the awe-struck and wide-eyed first years.
It had always amused Snape how frightened the first years always looked. Especially when they saw the patched and ageing Sorting Hat.
Losing concentration when the hat began to sing its out-of-tune and raving song, he set his gaze upon some of his Slytherin keep. He could see Draco Malfoy, more pale than usual- most likely due to the fact that his father was just put in Azkaban prison. Seated at either side of him where his –to Snape's amusement- cronies Crabbe and Goyle. Further down the table was Anabella Jones, with Sila Green who's piercing stare still remained unbroken. His studying was cut short as Dumbledore rose graciously to speak.
"Now we are all sorted," he paused to allow his mild pun to sink in, "I believe, a few words are in order before we begin our traditional feast. As you can see we are all now 'Umbrigless'," he paused again to allow some stifled giggles and cheers of joy from rejoicing students who- like the majority- had loathed Professor Umbrige. "I can definitely say that we can all breathe a little easier. However, we must all remember that the set school rules must be followed obediently –minus the ones that our dear school inquisitor had enforced- especially now that, and as you all know, Lord Voldermort has returned," everyone flinched at the use of his name. "It is most important that we all stay together and work in harmony, so we may continue on in a safe manner, while this whole issue is being dealt with. I must ensure you all that you will be safe, under your teachers eyes, but one can never ensure things with a definite faith."
As he finished speaking frightened whispers could be heard breaking out between the students. Dumbledore did not sit down, but continued to speak.
"On a brighter note, we have a replacement for our late Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. We are most fortunate to have among us the brilliant and clever, Professor Revesberry."
All eyes followed the sweeping arm of Dumbledore which pointed out Jane. Instantly all eyes widened. It was after this instant, that all the girls turned away, only slightly interested. It was the boys however, whose gaze continued. Trance like, their eyes never left her, even when food appeared on their tables. They all eyed Snape enviously who unblinkingly glared back. Eventually when they had come to their senses, they turned to eat, still stealing glances at the new, enigmatic teacher.
It was at this moment that Snape realised how alluring Miss Jane was. Eyeing all the keen young men like a hawk he turned to his side, elbow resting on the table, defensively blocking the smitten eyes. He cleared his throat to attract the attention of Jane. Oblivious of the infatuated attention she was receiving from the students, she turned to meet Snape's gaze.
"Yes Severus?"
"I somewhat get the impression that you will fit in well with the students," mused Snape venomously.
Looking up over Snape's blocking arm at the love-sick students, Jane's eyes widened with slight surprise, and turned to Snape once more. An expression of mock realisation dawned upon her face.
"Well, well, well, Severus. There is no need to be jealous now," she drawled smirking, "you've already had YOUR share."
Snape withdrew snarling. "What in Merlin's name do you mean?"
"Oh I don't think you've already forgotten your little nervous breakdown down by the lake and the –err…'landmark in Snape's life' occasion- already," she said slyly enjoying every moment of his discomfort. "You've already had your turn, so why are you being so greedy? 'Not jealous are we?"
Snape voice dropped into a vicious hiss. "I don't know what you're talking about, but I suggest you cease your incoherent babbling."
Snape's hands clenched and unclenched as he tried to maintain his absurd anger.
"If that is what you wish," she said silkily, gliding from her seat and leaving via the teachers exit, to the disappointed looks on the male students' faces.
…………………………………………………………………
Stalking through the corridors of that evening, Snape fingered in his hands the white bloodstained robe which belonged to Jane.
He had found them lying gently over the arm of his chair when he had returned that morning. Now, looking for an excuse to see Jane again, he approached her office- which was connected to her quarters, and her main classroom- to return it. He felt every part of his mind just itching to prove his remarkable wit, if she decided to make any snide remarks.
As he reached the doorway to her classroom, a soft and beautiful melody met his ears. As soon as this washed over him, all his malicious thoughts were flushed away.
Forgetting why he had come, he dreamily followed the musical trail, past the desks, and up the stairs towards the front of the classroom.
As he reached the one of many different entrances to Jane's office, an interesting sight met him. In a corner of the office was a tall black grand piano. Seated next to it was Jane, eyes closed in concentration as her hands worked in co-operation to stroke and pluck the strings of a large, highly ornate harp. It was the source of the aesthetic melody. From her mouth poured a songbird voice as she sang along to the tune wordlessly.
Stunned by this radiant scene, it took Snape some time to turn and notice a dishevelled Hannah Abbot, who was sitting on the opposite side of the room, nursing a fwooper bird.
Lime green in plumage it soundlessly sung along, as a silencing charm had been placed upon it to prevent its song from driving anyone into insanity. Its tall egg- like shape cooed as Hannah stroked it. Hannah's eyes were red, as if she had been crying. She sniffled softly.
It was Jane who first noticed Snape, as she suddenly stopped her performance. Hannah, who had been too distraught and reflective to do the same, started to see his towering form. Eyeing Snape curiously, Jane spoke to Hannah softly from her side of the room.
"Hannah, will you be okay now?"
Hannah managed a nod. Sighing with pity, Jane rose from her seat and approached Hannah. Offering a hand she helped Hannah up. She glanced at Snape.
"Professor, may I be excused for a few moments while I escort Hannah to her Hufflepuff common room?"
Snape did not have to answer. As soon as this question was posed, Jane was escorting Hannah out of the room, still tightly holding her hand, whilst balancing on her staff with the other. Hannah stole one last frightened look Snape's way, as she was ushered out.
Now left alone in the office Snape took the opportunity to look around. More pleasing than his potion stocked office, Jane's office appeared more elegant. In the centre of the room was the usual desk allocated to all teachers. Strewn across it were various lesson plans and opened books. Surrounding most of the walls were tall shelves of various Defence Against the Dark Arts books. As he followed the endless rows of books he came across a glass cabinet. Inside the cabinet he could see a variety of prediction instruments, along with a deep bowl with runes marked along its outside.
It was a pensive.
Familiar with the pensive, as he had only just borrowed Dumbledore's last year, Snape knew that it could store any memories extracted from a person's mind. This one was different. Though made from stone, this pensive was of a yellowish colour, and it was not Dumbledore's.
Curiosity gnawed at the edges of Snape's mind as he saw the misty fog formation whirling in it.
He then recalled how he had felt when Potter had looked at his memories in the pensive last year, without his permission. He had been very displeased.
He started when he heard an angry rattling coming from the bottom cupboard of the cabinet, which he was certain, contained a boggart.
Deciding to move on, Snape strode along to the long couch where Hannah had been seated. The fwooper still sat there, its large eyes gazing up at him, beak clicking with affection.
His hands guided themselves along the grand piano, then over the harp. How Jane managed to create music from the intricate and complicated instruments baffled Snape. As he turned, he saw another door ajar.
Unable to maintain his self-control, Snape found himself walking through the door to Jane's quarters.
She had no living room, but a bathroom and single room with a wardrobe, dressing table, fireplace, armchair and bed.
The wardrobe was opened revealing a whole array of light pastel colours. It was what lay on the dressing table that caught Snape's attention.
Sitting on the bench top, was a crystal dove charm, attached to a silver chain. It illuminated some part of the room, as it reflected the firelight with a rainbow of colour.
Reaching out to touch it, he felt a light hand on his shoulder.
"Can't control yourself when you see pretty lights?"
It was Jane. Ashamed, Snape turned around to meet her gaze.
"Yes, I can."
His reaching arm dropped, as his scowl broadened.
Following Jane outside to her office he found himself following suit as Jane went to sit on her couch. Not looking at Snape, Jane gazed at her instruments, whilst stroking her fwooper.
"Poor Hannah. She has been terribly upset. She didn't get as many OWLs as she had wanted. 'Started to cry as she went to her common room. 'Had to rescue her from embarrassment," she explained in a daze.
Snape, who was seated next to her, frowned. Hannah Abbot had a reputation of overreacting to misfortunes.
"So, my Sevvie friend. What may I do for you?" she asked suddenly turning to face Snape, eyes looking earnestly, "'troubled by dreams again?"
"No," stated Snape indignantly. Realising why he was here again he handed her the bloodied robe, "I came to return this."
She gratefully took the robe and sat it over the arm of her couch.
"I must thank you for helping me. I definitely wasn't expecting your kindness, even your thoughtfulness to knock me cold with a potion," she started earnestly, but ended on a dry note.
They stared at each other for a few moments, not knowing what to say.
"I suppose," mumbled Jane slowly, "I should give this back to you." She was indicating Snape's robes he had lent out her, which she was still wearing.
Snape waved his hand with dismissal, "I have a feeling you may need it more than me. I can't hope but notice your fashion choice does not involve that of dark colours."
Laughing softly, Jane nodded in agreement.
Again there was an awkward silence.
"So, has it healed?" Snape asked softly, leaning closer as if concerned someone could overhear them. He could not help himself but ask as the question had been nagging at him all day. Feeling slightly guilty for prying he anxiously waited for her respose.
Jane looked at him, then looked away.
"It will be fine from no on," she whispered.
Unwillingly, Snape rose from his seat, not able to bear being so close to her for any longer. He nodded a farewell and edged away, only to be called back.
"Severus, could you do one favour for me?" she asked quietly as if too afraid to request the favour.
He stared at her for a few moments as she considered how to ask her question, suspense building.
"My-my Sixth Year Defence Against the Dark Arts class… I'm teaching duelling. Could you assist me? The lesson is ten-thirty tomorrow," she stuttered afraid of his reaction.
Mysteriously disappointed, Snape nodded jerkily and left.
He could feel her eyes staring after him. As he descended down the stairs, and reached the centre of the classroom, he stopped.
Once again hear could hear the soft music, this time coming from the piano. He found himself sitting outside the classroom, on the cobblestone floor. He spent the evening being her anonymous audience.
………………………………….
Morning came, and to Snape's relief, no nightmares occurred.
This was partly because Snape had given himself a draught of dreamless sleep.
He was also thankful that he did not have to encounter Jane yet again that evening, as he had enough of seeing her to last him a week.
Deciding to eat breakfast early, he slipped into the Great Hall unnoticed. Unfortunately, Jane had similar ideas, as she was already seated alone with Dumbledore at the staff table.
A few students were awake and eating, their talk slurred and half-witted from remaining fatigue.
Jane and Dumbledore were engaged in a hushed conversation. Jane was sitting upright in a stiff manner, contrasting with Dumbledore's interested expression, an elderly hand propping his head. Flickers of concern could be seen flashing in his eyes. Slipping into his seat, Snape caught hints of their conversation.
"Headmaster, my leave will be missed-"
"My dear, I can only assure you will be covered."
"-but he will surely notice-"
"I will tell you once again, he will never know."
"but-"
"Jane, you and I agreed on this last year. It is a risk you were willing to take."
Dumbledore's eyes met Snape's curious gaze. He abruptly stopped talking, noticing Snape's intrusion.
"We will have this conversation later Miss Jane," he said softly, still piercing into Snape's eyes. Jane followed his gaze turned around to notice Snape. Instantly a jolt of fear and realisation filled her face. This quickly dissolved, as it melded into her usual content smirk. She rose from her seat to sit next to Snape.
"Ah, Severus, 'looking especially Gothic today I see!" she beamed at Snape's flinch of irritation. Her legs neatly crossed, her feet propping her staff.
She brushed her hair from her eye revealing a healed cheek.
Her cloak however, was still that of Snape's.
Her cool liquid eyes shimmered with contentment. Snape enjoyed this brief moment, greedily drinking in this sight, of which for the moment was only his. He involuntarily lifted his utensils, cutting his scrambled egg, and eating, still matching her gaze. Desperate for conversation, he asked the first question that came to mind.
"So Jane," he began casually, "how did you learn to play musical instruments?" –he was going to add 'so well' but thought better of it, recalling the last time he complimented her.
"Oh, that would be my parents- muggles you see- 'both musical teachers. They were great musicians." Her eyes misted over with what appeared to be deep sadness, "unfortunately they passed away over twenty years ago."
Snape recognised that pained look. His mother had died a long time ago. He was seventeen. They said that she had died in an accident, but he knew it was really his father that killed her. Their fights had always been violent, and his father always had the upper hand…
Suddenly a large owl swooped over their heads, breaking Snape's train of thought.
Long roles of parchment dropped into Snape's and Janes hands.
They were the class lists. Snape skimmed to his sixth year NEWT class. Once the students received their OWLs, they were asked to select their subjects. As he read the list, familiar names flashed in his face. Draco Malfoy… other Slytherin Students followed… Sila Green, Anna Jones… his eyes fell on the Griffindors. Thankfully he could not see Neville Long Bottom's name… Hermione Granger…
….and Harry Potter.
Snape's heart skipped a beat.
Harry Potter? How could have he received an 'Outstanding'? His eye scanned to meet Harry's OWL grade.
'Exceeds Expectations.'
That was a grade under what he accepts into his NEWT potion classes. Spluttering angrily over the list, he desperately looked at Dumbledore for an explanation who, from his mildly amused expression, knew exactly what was making Snape so furious.
More students began to fill the hall, as Snape angrily stormed over to Dumbledore. He thrust the list in Dumbledore's face with agitation, and pointed to Harry's name.
"What's this?" he asked darkly.
"Ahh, Mr Potter. I believe he is once again in your class, Severus," Dumbledore explained casually, pretending to be surprised at Snape's reaction.
"But-but he didn't get an 'Outstanding'!"
"Yes, yes, but if you haven't taken care to notice, there are many vacant spaces for your class, and as you know some exceptions must be made," reasoned Dumbledore, studying Snape's glare, "my word is final Severus. Harry alone must beat Voldermort, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't help him."
Snape flinched at You-Know-Who's-Name.
"I expect you put aside all grudges and resentments for the boy, and remember your commitment to the Order of the Phoenix," he gravely concluded.
His last words cruelly slapped Snape in the face as he wordlessly turned on his heel and stalked back to his seat.
Forget? How could he possibly forget?
James Potter, Harry's deceased father, had made Snape's school life torture. They had been enemies. What had made the situation worse was when James had saved him from Lupin in his werewolf form. Hatred poured into Snape as he now glared at Harry Potter, who was currently laughing with his friends.
Harry was a spitting image of James, except for his eyes. Yes, those eyes belonged to his late Mother, Lilly Evans.
Bitterness choked Snape at the thought of forgiveness.
He imagined precious Potter, the popular celebrity.
He has always pictured him, laughing by the Gryffindor common room fire, cruelly making jokes about others, just like his arrogant father.
Yes, arrogance appeared to be an imminent hereditary trait. Detest caused Snape's lips to curl.
"Severus," Jane interrupted softly, appearing to have been waiting for his attention. "'Don't forget. Class, ten-thirty." She graciously swept from her seat and left clutching her staff.
Snape gazed after her.
…………………………………….
Snape dashed through the corridors.
Ill fate had caused Snape to be ten minutes late.
He could feel his long robes billowing from behind him as he sharply turned around in the winding corridors.
His wide strides stopped suddenly, to hear the pouring sound of running feet.
The sound quickly met him as a group of sixth-year students jogged in his direction. As they came closer, her could see that Jane, who was travelling rather fast, even with the burden of her staff, led them.
She was calling their steps in an enthusiastic military fashion, as the teenagers sloppily jogged in unison. As the odd sight finally reached Snape, she ordered them to a halt and commanded to them to stretch.
The sudden stop caused a few to stumble and bump into Jane. Wobbling dangerously on her support, Snape caught her before she fell. She smiled with gratitude before announcing her greetings loudly.
"Ah, Professor, glad to see you. I was starting to wonder if you played chicken!" she indicated with her free arm to the stretching and wheezing red-face youths. "I decided we needed a little exercise! You can't be a good warrior against the Dark Arts without being physically fit!"
All exhausted, only few student heads nodded wearily.
"Well, lets turn around shall we?" beamed Jane, "ABOUT FACE!"
The students drifted around and half-heartedly marched back to the classroom, with Jane in the rear. Snape found himself tripling his pace to keep up with them.
After five minutes, they all finally reached the classroom. Snape and the students silently inhaling all sat down. Snape fell onto a stool in the dark corner of the room, trying not to appear exhausted.
Jane, on the other hand, radiated an invigorated smile over her class. She leant lopsided on the edge of her desk, staff within hands reach. Her hair, slightly windswept, appeared more luscious than ever, as it was now coated with a light layer of sweat.
She brightly asked her students their opinions of the exercise, and much to their open dismay, informed them that it was to be a regular practice. Jane, giving them little time to recover from the shock, began to speak, as she toyed with her wand.
"Now students, the first topic to be covered in this course is duelling," she pointed her wand to the blackboard and on que; a bright pink chalk instantly scrawled the topic's name in a calligraphic, looped fashion.
The gradual rustle of parchment and quills could be heard, but Jane's raised her hands.
"No, we are not doing theory today kiddies," she smiled graciously, "I thought for a first lesson, a practical demonstration was in order!"
Enthusiastic grins wiped out the mutual boredom, as all turned to meet Snape, the students now realising his purpose. Snape glared back. Jane indicated all to rise, as she swept all the desks out of obstruction with a wave of her wand, forming the perfect duelling stage.
"Now," she stated as she began to stride-limply without her staff to the middle of the room, "I believe Professor Lockhart has already taught you –in one way or the other- the basics of duelling, therefore it is fitting to begin at a slightly more advanced level… using simplistic spells."
The youth looked at her in confusion.
"I am referring of course to the use of basic spells to create complex tactics. It has always been found, that the basics are always the most effective, as one can possibly foresee the horror of a bloody defeat due to a panicked mind using an incorrect advanced spell. 'An example? anyone? Does anyone actually rouse themselves to listen to History of Magic classes, as I in my school days never achieved?"
One soul hand rose. Hermione Granger was waving her hand about like mad.
"Miss, if you please, I think you are referring to Christopher the Foolhardy. He was in a duel against an evil wizard and tried to impress the damsel in distress by using a complex spell, which resulted in him confusing the phrases, turning the damsel into a walrus and disintegrating himself into a pile of oil."
"That is correct! Ten points for Gryffindor!" shouted Jane enthusiastically, steadying herself afterwards.
Hermione joined Jane by smiling weakly, but ceased when a sudden shout came from behind her. All turned to see Draco Malfoy dangling by a leg in mid air. Jane's expression was grim.
"You didn't think I would hear that snide comment?" she asked quietly, pointing her wand, as it was the source of Draco's levitation.
He waved about as she used magic to drag him through the air to her face. Looking upside-down, anywhere but at her face, Draco snarled, "I didn't say anything Professor!"
"Oh no?" retorted Jane, "Do you think that Revesberry's a fool? I heard you!"
Everyone looked at each other as the scene unfolded, including Snape, trying to comprehend exactly what it was that Draco had said to make Jane angry.
"Mr Malfoy, I can hear everything said in this classroom, even lip-talk, and I heard what you said to you buddies over there, when Miss Granger so intelligently answered my question," she explained. "Shall I make you repeat this filth to prove it?"
Before Draco could respond he was hit in the face with another spell. His mouth contorted as he spoke gibberish, which Snape realised was, what he had said to Jane, backwards. He stopped. Then with a pained and frightened look on his face said, "Filthy mudblood Granger, bet the fool was her ancestor, for all we know she's probably part troll, with her messed up background."
The whole class gasped at Draco's indignant expression as the spell of replayed speech wore off. Hermione's face became ashen and Snape shot Draco a disapproving frown. Draco was never known to be wise.
"Draco Malfoy, I warn you of this. If you ever to cross the line again with me, you will suffer severe consequences. To all of you, if I ever hear such talk in my presence again, expect my wrath and punishment," she spoke loudly.
With a brisk wave of her wand, Draco returned to his place and fell sharply, scowling darkly.
Forgetting the whole situation, Jane indicated with her eyes for Snape to join her. Sneering at the smirking students, he strode to his allocated position. From the corner of his eyes he could see Draco silently egging him on, most likely hoping Snape would avenge him.
"Ready?" asked Jane with anticipation.
Snape nodded, as he marched to meet Jane at the centre, he was reminder vaguely of four years ago, when he duelled Professor Lockhart.
This time was different. This time, Snape felt a deep urge to prove himself.
As he jerkily bowed, Jane curtseyed like a swan sweeping across the surface water. They turned on their heels, passing back once more, parallel to glittering eyes. His heart hammering, he formed a stance. His left arm warily positioned itself over his head, and his wand arm was outstretched at the ready. Jane fumbled with her wand as she stood up normally, her arms forming a cross.
"On three," breathed Jane loudly, "one, two…THREE!"
Snape didn't have to think, he shouted the first spell that came to mind.
"EXPELLERAMIS!"
Jane stumbled backwards, wincing on her injured leg. Her wand soared across towards Snape but landed behind him with an unusual clatter. Jane stood up with some difficulty, fiddling with her sleeve of her cloak. No sign of fear met her features.
"Very good Professor!" she laughed, "however you have failed to notice that I can do… WANDLESS MAGIC!"
She said her last two words with a dramatic tone. The students gasped once more, but Snape raised an eyebrow and snorted with indignation.
Wandless magic? There is no such thing! Jane, however appeared very convincing, and doubt crept into Snape's mind. Jane dramatically raised her hands.
"REVEALO CONTEMPRO SNAPE'S UNDERWEAR!"
A loud crack sounded from behind Snape, causing him to turn around for a mere second.
A moment was all that was needed for laughter to erupt throughout the classroom.
Turning back around in confusion, his stomach lurched with horror at the sight that met his eyes.
Held between Jane's fingers was a very delicate and lacy piece of lingerie.
It then occurred to Snape that his underwear was supposed to be of what was held in Jane's hand. He felt his face flush red.
"Now, now children, settle down, settle down," calmed Jane, "are we over the shock now? Good, now obviously these are not really Professor Snape's," she waved the panties around in a ludicrous fashion, "so can anyone tell me what I just did?"
All hands went up, until Jane reassured them that she did not just uncover the ultimate piece of gossip of the century. After this, only Harry Potter's timid hand remained partly raised.
"Professor, you conjured the underwear," he explained.
"May I interject that this is impossible!" fumed Snape.
"Yes Mr Potter! That is absolutely correct!" Jane appeared to have ignored Snape, to his growing irritation. "And how, ingenious Mr Potter, did I do this?"
Harry blushed vividly at the compliment, "Miss, when Professor Snape used the disarming spell, he didn't deprive you of your real wand. I saw another up you sleeve. You used your arms to wave your wand, and conjure the underwear non-verbally."
Everyone silenced at this amazingly brilliant theory, which was confirmed by Jane's nod. Another ten points were added to Gryffindor.
Snape snarled. He had been tricked the whole time?
Jane must have allowed him to attack first. Snape was certain, on the other hand, that he had seen her wand fly across the room. He swivelled to the position where the 'wand' had landed. Neville Longbottom, was already picking it up. It suddenly transformed into a candy cane, then a rubber chicken to his surprise.
"Joke wand," explained Jane, eyes smiling.
Realising that his fears had been confirmed he glared.
"The technique you just saw," explained Jane to her class, "was called bluffing. Of course no one can do wandless magic. It is impossible. If you are a skilled actor, convincing your opponent of a lie may be the technique for you. Another one I used was plain embarrassment. It can cause the opponent to back out of a second challenge in fear of his fellow peers' judgement. Shall we have another round Snape?"
Snape frowned then submissively nodded. He would defeat her this time. The students appeared so thrilled that their eyes were watering with excitement.
They repeated the starting ritual, Snape becoming more impatient by the second. He whipped his wand over his head, whilst Jane resumed her usual position.
"One, two…three!"
A spell shot out of Jane's wand.
"Tangellatera!"
Suddenly Snape felt himself moving. He uncontrollably began to dance, his feet manoeuvring themselves in a professional fashion. Ignoring the laughter Snape bellowed the counter curse on himself, letting out a sigh of relief. Only pausing for a second his spell lunged at the giggling and unaware Jane.
"SAHARI SERPENT SIGHD!"
Jane stopped laughing as the snake-like beam writhed its way towards her. Fear crept into her eyes. Paralysed by the mere sight of it, a definite twitch crossed her mouth.
Something under her cloak glowed for a second, then fizzled out. All the students had ceased their hysteria and turned to look at Jane. At her desk the staff trembled angrily and shot into her hands, preventing her from falling over, but causing the nearby students to leap out of the way.
Seeing her reaction with some curiosity, Snape extinguished the spell.
"Afraid of snakes?" he asked quietly.
She hesitated then nodded.
The bell sounded, and the students all reluctantly left at Jane's permission and insistence, nosily babbling about the riveting lesson. Satisfied that he had won that round, Snape left with a triumphant smile. Jane swept into her office and slammed the door.
Something forced its way up Snape's throat as he walked down the corridor, as he thought about the look on her face. Was it guilt? Along the walls sounded an unfamiliar retching noise. Was it sobbing?
Snape did not allow the question to sink in as he stalked to the Slytherin common room eyes squinting with confusion.
A/N: Well what do you think?
As you may have noticed, this is a long chapter (about 12 pages!), as I hope the next ones to be.
As such, there will not be a whopping 40 chapters or something like that in this story (I don't know about you, but I HATE really long stories.) I'd rather complete my chapters fully, rather than give you short instalments.
You know this would have been even longer, if I allowed it to be? I'm just going to add the other stuff to the next chapter.
I really should have made my previous chapters longer or combined them into one, but oh well too late now, I'd just confuse you people if I changed it.
To confirm with you, I'm working on the next chapter now.
Before I go I'd like to thank all you great people for reviewing me! It really makes my day
Not only from complete strangers, but the witty and amusing comments from my friends. One such friend, commented that if anyone were to kiss Snape, they would surely slide right off. She received the death staring of a lifetime.
The 'ALL POWERFUL AND MIGHT FRUITY ONES NOTES OF SPECIAL THANKS' section:
The Fruity One: Yes, this is lame: Firstly, because I'm reviewing myself to make myself look good, secondly, because I'm actually replying to myself.
Aimee Damita: Ah, my first review. (who wasn't me.) You brought tears to my eyes. I FEEL HAPPY! You said 'wow' WOW! I hope I didn't leave you on edge. Oh yeah and I like Snape too. I can give him hell!
Aquarian Fire Tiger: Thanks for the tip. I actually hadn't even checked out my story online until you pointed that out. grins sheepishly
Maruder no.5: Sigh. My friend, WHAT are you taking? 'Why do we care?' well, that's your call, not mine. Thankyou for you very …err… educational demonstration of "cut and paste."
Leafy: Yes, I like Snape too. I've updated. SURPRISE! By the way, don't ask me to tell you again. I just can't email strangers. It's too dangerous.
DID I FORGET YOU? OPPS, SORRY MY ETERNAL BAD. Please accept my humble (yet powerful) apologies.
All Hail The Fruity One.