Chapter 2

Watching the last of the first years quickly scramble over to them Hermione naturally joined in with the cheers of her fellow Gryffindor's, yet despites her outward cheer she couldn't shift the unease which had settled inside her. Taking a quick glance along the Gryffindor table Hermione saw there had been no chance since her last check, both Harry and Ron were still absent. However, it was more than their absence at the table which truly worried her; it was the added fact that either of her friends had been aboard the train.

Having checked with the other Weasley children she soon learned the reason when; neither Ron nor Harry had boarded the train. Although they had tried looking for the two no trace of them could be found, having to leave the matter with Mr and Mrs Weasley.

Keeping a cool composure Hermione knew that despites her growing concern there was nothing she could do, besides she had no doubt that Mr and Mrs Weasley were doing all they could do find them. That and she had no doubt Dumbledore already knew about the boy's sudden disappearance, if anyone could find them it would be him. Speaking of the school's Headmaster Hermione quickly cleared her head as she realized he was seeking everyone's attention; joining the rest of the student body Hermione turned to listen to the wizard's words.

"Welcome! Welcome to another year at Hogwarts! Now before we get under way with the feast before us I would like to remind all students that the Forbidden Forest is off limits to all pupils."

Looking down into the sea of faces before him Albus couldn't help but smile as he noticed the grin's on the Weasley twins. Glancing over the students before him Albus soon confirmed the absence of his two students, doing little to ease the unrest which dwelled within him. However, after learning of Arthur's suspicions about a certain car Albus had some hope, all that reminded now was to see if he's suspicions were right.

Knowing their wasn't much he could do at the present moment in time Albus turned his attention to more cheerful ideals as he prepared to announce his news.

"With that said, I am pleased to announce the arrival of two new teachers to our ranks this year. Firstly, our new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Lockhart."

Knowing he not point out the one he spoke of Albus merely watched as his female students bushed out in fits of giggles, some sending dreamy looks towards the blonde wizard. Giving the Professor his moment in the spot light Albus waited for the commotion to settle down before continuing with his announcements.

"As to our second appointment, I am sorry to announce to you that our History of Magic teacher, Professor Binns has decided to retire. However, I am delighted to say that Professor Langdon has kindly consented to fill the post."

Not surprised to see the lack of sorrow upon the students faces as they heard of Professor Binns retirement Albus couldn't prevent the smile which came upon him as he introduced their new Professor. Watching as Elizabeth raised before them all Albus found he wasn't the only one who found the students looks laughable as they gazed upon their new Professor. Obviously the person before them wasn't what they expected when they thought of a History of Magic teacher.

Waiting for Elizabeth to regain her seat Albus had a feeling this was going to be an eventful year as he gazed the crowd before him. Retaking his own seat Albus found himself pondering the up coming year, smiling happily as the sounds of laughter and joy reached him.

X-X-X-X-X-X

Descending the spiral stairway before her Elizabeth couldn't help the shiver which gripped her frame, the chill of the air reaching her even through her robes. Something's it would seem never changed, the icy chill of the dungeons seemed to be something that would never change. Taking in the familiar surroundings around her Elizabeth found herself remembering her days here as a student, her years spend here were some of the happiest moments of her life.

Finally finishing her descend Elizabeth found the silence which filled the corridor before strangely soothing, the quiet swish of her robes the sound that broke the sound. Taking a path she knew by heart she couldn't say she was surprised to hear that the one she sought still kept the same rooms he had all those years ago.

Moving pass the open doorway beside her Elizabeth found herself hit by mixture of smells; although she could pick up on the more pleasant aromas they were over done by those of more unpleasant scents. Wrinkling her nose at such a smell Elizabeth was thankful her sense of smell was heightened, otherwise she'd never make it one step into the dungeons hold.

Finally reaching her destination Elizabeth placed a gentle knock on the door before her, hoping its occupant would have calmed down. Hearing a sharp response Elizabeth contained her smile as she entered the room, once again finding herself in familiar surroundings. Pausing in the doorway Elizabeth allowed a small smile to grace her as she saw the one before her; obviously still fuming over the matter involving the wayward students Severus Snape sat glaring into the flames before him.

Still unaware of her presence Elizabeth took the opportunity to look over Severus's silent form, although older the man really hadn't changed over the years. Although some people were put of by the man's appearance Elizabeth had come to see pass the outward appearance. Although he wasn't a heartbreaker by any means Elizabeth wasn't afraid to admit the man had a unique appeal about him, in fact despites what people thought Severus could brush up quite well.

Very pale of skinned Severus's long form was forever hidden under the black robes he wore, while his now lanky strands of black hair framed his face. With his hands raised before his face Severus's gaze was fixed upon the flames before him, his long form arranged with the noble grace he always had in the chair before it. Taking a deep breath Elizabeth could feel her nervous beginning to get a hold of her as she gathered herself to speak. It had been years since she'd last seen the Potions Professor and truth be told she wasn't sure if he would remember her.

"I hope I'm not interrupting you Professor."

Surprised to hear the soothing voice which reached him Severus felt his heart skip a beat as he recognised the voice which reached him, although a little toned down it was still the same. Turning towards the doorway Severus found himself meeting a pair of familiar emerald eyes, keeping a blank expression Severus let his dark eyes take in the form before her.

Although four years seemed like nothing Severus found that idea quickly jumping out of the window as he gazed upon Elizabeth's form. Gone was the young lady he'd previously known, while in her place an elegant woman had blossomed. Seeing the slight smile she wore and the twinkle in her eyes Severus was reminded of the first time he had seen her. Barely into her teens Severus had been surprised at the level of patience and wisdom the young girl had, excelling in many of her subjects, though partially in Potions.

A year after his appointment at the school Elizabeth had begun to seek him out during the holidays, while everyone else returned home she remained. Not one to be alone Elizabeth had often spend her time with the staff, helping them with their work or simply chatting with them. Although she became a quiet favourite with the staff, more times than not Severus had often returned to his rooms only to find her awaiting his arrival. Unsure of how to deal with her at first Severus had kept his distance, allowing her to sit quietly while he worked.

However, over the years the two had come to find they had a lot in common eventually forming a friendship. Coming to value the friendship they had Severus had missed her companionship when they lost touch, so when he'd heard she'd be taking the History of Magic position he had been greatly surprised. Not knowing what to expect Severus could only remain silent as he gazed upon the one before him.

"I'm sorry if I'm bothering you, but I was hoping I might have the change to catch up with an old friend."

Seeing the uncertainty with emerald eyes Severus took a moment to give his answer. With a slight wave of his hand Severus had to hide his own smile as he noticed the relief fill Elizabeth's form at his reply. Realizing this would be a long night Severus took a moment to re-spark the fire before them before finally turning to his attention to an old friend.

To Be Continued