I'm so sorry it took so long! My wrist totally died so it took me forever to write this. I suppose you don't want excuses though. And yes, its kind of short, but I have to set some things up. Also, the first bit was part of a writing exercise from school. That's why it's so wonky.

AnnF- Thanks for pointing that out! Now that you mentioned it, it all became clear... Or I just got over whatever I drank last night... joking...

Salena Snape- Well, here he is. You don't get too good a glimpse, but he'll be in the next chapter with a (gasp) speaking role!

Part of the Plan X- Fantasy and Fugue

The candle on the windowsill flickers and gutters out quietly, while the other candles illuminate a small room on the second floor of a smallish house in the heart of London. Outside, the muggy night air is pierced by the murmur and occasional scream of the inhabitants. Inside, the room is dusty and lined with shelves of books. The books are on every subject imaginable, from Astronomy to Potions, from physics to philosophy. The corner farthest from the window was occupied by a small desk, the surface hidden by a thick tome in Greek, entitled The Almagest.

Another candle dies, and the pale man studying the said manuscript looks around blearily, for what must be the first time in hours. His bottle green eyes flashes brightly in the candlelight, the half moon outside obscured by clouds. His ebony hair dully reflects that self-same light, and his faded grey robes appear black. The dark hair sways softly in the gentle breeze that wafts through the window. The man had had a hair tie, but it had snapped earlier in the day.

He stretches gently, and makes a move to leave just as a tawny owl swoops in through the open window. The dark man sighs, but accepts the missive, frowning when he sees the Hogwarts seal. He sits motionless for a while, lost in his memories of such a place.

Finally, yet another candle is extinguished, and he moves to open the letter. His first thought had been for his uncle, then wondering who was dead this time. He learned that the deceased was Auriga Sinistra, the Astronomy teacher, and it pained him greatly, that he was being asked to replace her. Auriga had been his teacher, indeed, long ago.

'Gods, Reg- is this what you would have wanted,' he thought, lost again in memories, 'You always joked that I should be the Astronomy teacher, but did you ever dream it would be on account of murder? No, you wouldn't have. You couldn't even imagine what future being a Death Eater held for you. If only-'

He shook his head. He was not some old maid, moaning over an 'if only'.

Then the scholar notices the post-script. 'Be prepared to welcome an addition to your family.' He wonders. He did not think his uncle had been dating or anything, so he dismissed it. Then he stands, furtively watching for another owl, but when another does not come, he moves off to his bed room, a floor below.

Therefore, there is no one to notice when a black cat steals into the room silently, extinguishing the remaining candles.

There is also no one to notice when a rat with a silver paw creeps in the still cracked window, and is promptly devoured by the feline.

Because no one noticed, no one will understand the importance of this for a very long time.

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Uncle Severus,

Who is this 'addition to the family' Dumbledore mentioned? I have to say, that really has be puzzled. I hadn't realized you were looking, or I would have passed something around. I suppose you already knew I'm coming to Hogwarts, to join the staff, but I guess I should mention it. Also, as I'm sure you know, the date of mother's death is fast approaching again. You will be coming to the graveyard, right? I don't know that I'll be able to without you, since father is there now too. Well, I've a need to pack, and Monent is upset.

Sincerely,

Your nephew 'Kios

Akakios,

Dumbledore was not to mention any new additions, if there were any to speak of. You shall have to wait to find out if there is one, though, as much as I'm sure it pains you. And no, I was never 'looking' for anything, you dolt. Yes, I am accompanying you to my sister's grave, as always, and why this year should be any different is beyond me. Do not disturb that wretched cat, and I shall be ever grateful. The blasted thing never liked me, and it will be even worse if it is distressed when it arrives.

S. Snape

Remus Lupin:

It has come to the attention of the Registry that you are soon to be employed at a new job, namely one at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. It is required, as you know, to file paperwork both at the Werewolf Registry, and the Werewolf Support Division for this change of employment, and presumably place of residence. This must be taken care of at least three weeks before the first full moon during this job.

I. Shuntpike

Harry-

Hey mate! You haven't written for a while, so Hermione and I were kinda worried. Wanted to check in you know? Make sure those Muggles weren't starving you or nothing. Well, write back soon! I'm off to a Chudley Cannon game. The tickets were wicked cheap, can you figure?

-Ron

PS- Yes, Harry, poor Ron really is wondering why tickets to a Cannons game is so cheap. Have you started your homework yet?

Ron (and Hermione, if you're near)-

I've been fine, really. I'm at Hogwarts, since my uncle laid down the law, or whatever nonsense. Really, I think the Headmaster wants me near after the whole…. yeah, you know. He said you can all come for my birthday, and guess what? I've got an entire tower to m'self. Oh- and I know who the new DADA teacher is. Drive your self crazy, Hermione, but you'll never guess. I've been working on my homework, and amazingly, Snape's been helping. He's almost been civil. I guess it's the summer that does it. Makes them all wonky.

And speaking of Snape, did either of you know he had a sister? She was goo-gobs older, though, and his nephew was a year behind at Hogwarts. He's coming to teach Astronomy after Sinistra was killed. From what I've heard, Snape practically hates him, and he adored the Marauders. Wild, huh? Still a Slytherin, I'm told. Oh- gotta go…..

-Harry

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Read and review people, please!