Disclaimer: Severus Snape and company all are the property of J.K. Rowling, I do not own the rights to him or his world in any way shape or form (I just like to play there). Rosemary Grene is an original character I created for ht epurpose of this recreational story, not to gain any sort of monetary compensation.

Three o'clock tolled across the castle as students scurried to their last class or whatever activity awaited them. Many of them were quite surprised to see their surly potions master strolling out onto the grounds with their newest teacher, Miss Rosemary Grene. If the two professors noticed the stares that they were attracting, neither of them seemed to mind. They were utterly lost in conversation, oblivious to the children trailing from building to building.

"…predominantly independent," Severus was explaining. "I usually begin each class with a brief explanation of the day's activity, and the students then proceed to try and recreate what it is that I have described. When the time has expired, I critique their work."

"Sounds like a good system," said Rosemary, jotting down a few notes. "I think I might know where your students seem to be going wrong."

"Do tell," said Severus dryly.

"Think about it. You demand discipline within your classroom; the activities which you usually engaged require a focusing of the mind on every instruction, right down to the most insignificant of details. Most children are too impatient to deal with such a painstaking process. They become so impatient that they begin to make mistakes."

Severus remained silent, her words turning themselves over in her mind.

"Well, I think that I have everything I need to get started. Thank you again for all of your help." She tucked her notes into her pocket and smiled at him.

"You're welcome. Shall we return to the castle?"

"Actually, I think I might keep walking for a bit. I love days like this."

Severus glanced up at the dingy, wash water clouds that threatened to burst overhead. "Really?" he inquired.

"Sure, I love the rain. Care to join me?"

Perhaps it was the earnest way in which she asked; or perhaps it was the oddity of her choice in weather. Either way, Severus found himself agreeing without being quite certain as to why. Thunder rumbled in the distance as the sky purpled like a bruise, but they were both oblivious to the ominous sound, lost in the simple pleasure of good company.