Disclaimer.
J.K Rowling went out one day so I took her characters out to play.
We ran around, they laughed with glee,
All this fun and she works for free!
Another chapter in our saga – Hope your still with me cause the characters just keep getting more complex the more I talk to them.
Do stop by and say hello – It encourages faster keying
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The room of requirement was extraordinarily quiet given the number of people still occupying the space. Minerva sat very still staring at the spot Dumbledore had just occupied. The Aurors looked at each other not entirely sure of how to react. Lupin and Gillhooly looked at each other amazed that a mere Muggle would have confronted Dumbledore on his home turf. Snape looked at the rest of the room waiting for some reaction.
Minerva finally stood and walked to the front of the room.
"I will speak to Albus. We have not concluded the business that we needed to but I doubt we could reconvene this evening. We'll contact you." She instructed before turning to Severus to tersely ask, "Come with me."
Snape followed Minerva out of the room as she led the way to the corridor leading to the Headmaster's office.
Minerva turned to the younger professor, "I will see Albus. I..I'm not sure what his reaction meant. You need to find her and straighten this mess out." Minerva finished while prodding his sternum with her index finger.
Snape frowned, "What makes you think I can make her recant?" he spat.
Minerva raised her brow and looked down her nose, "You're her lover. She listens to you."
Severus snorted, "You must be joking. Phaelan listens to no one if she does not choose to."
With a sigh the older woman rolled her eyes. "Dinna be sae daft man, ken we see the way you two leuk at each other. Ye might keep it frae the scholars but ye canna hide if frae us. Now, away wi ye." Minerva dismissed him with a wave.
With a sigh, Severus walked towards the tower but stopped and summoned Polly the elf to save him time.
"Polly, where is my Lady?" inquired Snape quietly.
Polly twisted the corner of her tea towel toga fretfully. "Master, your Lady just returned to her chambers. She is being very sad. She made Polly put out all the candles. She sits in the dark master and makes no music. Polly does not know how to please your Lady Master, to make her smile." The little creature finally whined as thought ready to cry.
"You are not at fault Polly. I will attend my Lady and summon you if required." He dismissed the elf and made his way to confront her portrait entrance.
To his surprise the door opened as soon as he knocked. Walking in, he saw the room was indeed dark except for the fireplace. He could make out her figure curled up on the small sofa, her arms wrapped around her knees and her chin resting on the right one. He walked to the chair beside her and sat quietly.
"I did it again Severus, I fucked it up." Her quiet voice shouted in the silence. "I can't not interfere; I have to jump in and screw it up for everyone." She sighed deeply. "I'm such an idiot." She finally spat in self recrimination.
Severus still said nothing. He looked at her and remembered the woman who fell over trying to escape the Bogart. The woman who's greatest fear was not of something that could hurt her but of allowing someone else to be harmed.
"Phaelan, Minerva has gone to speak to Albus." He began quietly.
Phaelan snorted, "Arranging my departure, replacement and mind wipe no doubt."
It was Snape's turn to snort, "If that were the case, your mind would have been 'Wiped' as you put it, already and you would have been back in your London flat as fast as the Aurors could move you."
Phaelan finally looked at him, "What do you mean?"
"I mean, Dumbledore was angry, yes, but you have caused him to take a second look at something and that has unsettled him." Reasoned Snape.
Sitting up, Phaelan thought about what Severus said. "You mean, he's not going to fire me?"
With a wry smile, Severus moved to sit beside her, "I've seen Albus fire someone and he never looked confused or unsure as he did it. No, I think our Headmaster realizes he got what he asked for except what he asked for was not what he wanted."
"He wanted good little sycophant soldiers ready to jump at his word."
"Well trained little soldiers able to defend themselves and others. He forgot that when you stretch the boundaries of education, that the students minds expand to fill the open space. Teach them more and they will learn more whether or not they do it consciously."
Phaelan looked at his dark eyes shining in the firelight. "What next?"
Pulling her against him, Severus stroked her hair and kissed the top of her head. "You will be a good little professor and apologize."
"I can't change my convictions Severus." She said as she finally relaxed in his arms.
"I don't think he expects you to." He replied. "Perhaps if you retract your insult and rephrase your statement?"
"What about what he said to me?" she asked petulantly.
Severus smirked, "Lets prove who the bigger person here is shall we? Respect for elders and all that tripe."
Phaelan frowned, "I would have thought you would have taken his part in this Severus."
"I have wanted to put the old man in his place for a long time but…." He sighed.
"You still feel you owe him your life." Finished Phaelan.
"Indeed."
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"Phinnius, Phinnius, are you awake?" asked Liam.
Groaning, the ex-IRA assassin turned to look at his partner. "No Liam, I was snuggled down in me feather duvet dreaming of comely little strumpets casting their favours my way – Of course I'm awake you idjit." Phinnius spat.
Liam's face suddenly lit up with understanding and he laughed. "Funny Phinnius, really funny."
"Shut up you stupid berk; what do you want?" asked Phin rolling to a sitting position and wiping sleep from his eyes.
"Well, you how you said we might be able to get yon wizard to pay money for protection?" he began.
"Go on."
"Well Phin, I was wondering how we might contact him with our offer?" Liam finished his thought.
Phinnius sighed, "Liam, before we can go after him we need to make sure no one is coming after us."
Liam smiled, "Right then Phin, where do we start."
"First Liam we get new wheels then we get ourselves a safe house then….then we figure out how to find this wizard who likes to fly in aeroplanes." Phinnius frowned at the last.
Liam thought hard and brightened as he remembered the day he saw the dark man at the RAF base. "He was with a Muggle woman Phin and she was in uniform. She must go there regular like."
Looking at Liam, Phinnius became thoughtful, "Right you are Liam; that means someone likely knows her even if she's not flying every day."
"Just so Phin." Liam agreed.
"And if two good citizens were to find something important to her, someone might be willing to give us a name." Phinnius smiled as a plan came together.
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Monday morning was as grey and wet as the weekend. There seemed to be no relief from the rain and dreary conditions. The castle was becoming cold and dank leading Phaelan to believe the main reason the witches kept to long robes was to keep warm. Phaelan rose and dressed in a track suit for her morning run through the castle. As she made her way to the main entrance way, she noticed glances being cast her way from members of the DA. Gossip must have been running rampant all last night.
"Morning Professor." Called a cheery Madam Hooch.
Phaelan smiled in reply. "When does the sun come back Madam Hooch? Do they pack it away until March and pull it out for spring cleaning?" she asked sarcastically.
Hooch chuckled, "Not at all, we make sure to let it peak out from the clouds when we're all in class and tuck it a way again when we have free time to spend outside."
"I'm beginning to believe that." Phaelan snorted as she stretched before running.
Hooch blew her whistle, "Alright you lot, follow me." She called as she led the way through the maze of hallways.
Phaelan blanked her mind as she jogged along with the group and tried to put the last evening aside for a while. It wasn't working. Little smidgens of the event kept creeping into her minds eye. As they were passing her rooms, Phaelan dropped out and went for a shower. Thinking discretion would be the better part of valour, she decided to breakfast in her rooms before going to class. She skipped breakfast finally.
First class of the day, Seventh years next third years; a free period then lunch. Lunch…the Headmaster never missed Lunch on Mondays. He made announcements at lunch on Mondays.
Shit, he was due to make an announcement for her today. She had to go.
Phaelan entered with the students at the back of the Great Hall. As she walked to the head table, heads turned and smiled at her. Voices greeted her cheerfully. Looking up at the table, she noticed none of this was lost on the Headmaster. Phaelan felt as though she were a nasty germ under the hostile microscope of Albus Dumbledore. Her stomach roiled at the thought of eating as she took her customary seat.
"Nice you could make it, Professor." Severus commented to her left.
"I'd rather be with Pomfrey getting an enema of that crimson shit." Phaelan retorted.
Snape snorted, "I told you, if the axe was to fall, it would have happened last night. Now eat your soup, you need your strength until I give you your potion."
Phaelan looked at the soup in front of her, Rich Green Pea soup that right now looked like scum they scraped off the bottom of boats. She tapped her plate to order something else.
"Ice water with lemon." She requested.
"Phaelan, that won't do, eat something. You had no breakfast." Snape chided.
Looking at him with a frown she asked, "How do you know that? Does Polly report back to you or something?"
Snape sniffed and raised his signature eyebrow. "I have a responsibility for your welfare, my lady. The elves are part of our bond." He answered very quietly and sincerely.
Phaelan thought about what he said and asked, "Does that mean Dobby would tell me if you were in need of my…assistance?"
"Yes." He replied and then reached over and tapped the charger in front of her, "Chicken Broth."
Phaelan sighed as a bowl of golden liquid appeared before her. Lifting her spoon, she looked at him once more before sipping the broth.
At the end of lunch the Headmaster stood as Minerva tapped her glass for attention.
"Well my young friends," the old man began, "It's that wonderful time of the year again when our first ball of the season is held, Halloween." He paused as cheers and applause went around the hall.
"As in the past, first through third year students will have parties in their common rooms until curfew while the fourth years and above will have a dance here in the Great Hall. Now, for music, we have managed to secure a new piece of technology and someone to operate it called a Disc Jockey. I'm sure it will prove to be entertaining. As to the theme, our Head Boy and girl have decided after much lively discussion that we will have a 1980's Disco Dance Fever theme. I'm only slightly familiar with the genre but I'm certain you will find the appropriate costumes if you look through some of the old school pictures. Some of our younger staff may also give you some ideas."
A titter of anticipation passed over the students as they began to plan. Harry and Ron had their heads together.
"So mate, what did you Muggles wear in the 1980's?" Ron asked.
"How should I know, I was just a baby." Snorted Harry. "Hey Hermione, what did your dad wear twenty years ago?"
Hermione started to giggle, "He still has the suits at home. Polyester suits with ruffled shirts and big bow ties. The best part was the platform shoes."
Ron frowned "That doesn't sound too weird."
"Ron, the suits you wore to disco's came in pastel colours and had sequins and sparkles on them. And the hair, well a lot of people wore big bushy Afro's."
Minerva was tapping her glass again and everyone quieted down.
Dumbledore continued. "In conjunction with the ball, we will be having an auction of goods and services as our next fund raiser for the school. Items have been donated by local merchants and some from Diagon Alley. Even our own staff has contributed items. Professor McKenzie, who is running the auction, is donating a flight in her Jet Aircraft – subject to parental approval of course. Our very own Mr Filch is contributing three certificates which may be redeemed at the end of the school year for any three items per certificate from his store of confiscated articles. I believe he has an excellent selection to choose from. We look forward to some active and generous bidding. Oh, and not to forget the Dress down day on Friday before our party."
As he finished, Dumbledore cast a glance in Phaelan's direction. He saw her worried look and hunched posture as she looked down at the table. Making a decision, he left the Great Hall and sent out summons to a meeting for that evening. It appeared his young professor was punishing herself far more than he had any intention to. Minerva was right; Phaelan's outburst was more about concern for her charges than disrespect for his position. He had to find a middle ground.
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Phaelan got through her day and returned to her rooms exhausted. As she entered, she found Polly already there. The little elf held an envelope out to her.
"Master Snape said I should come and fill the bath for you and use his special bath salts. He also said he would come to take you to dinner and make you eat. He is a good Lord for you Miss." Concluded the elf with a beatific smile.
"Yeah, I know Polly. Thank you." Phaelan dismissed her and walked to the bathroom. Inhaling deeply, Phaelan recognized Severus' signature Ti with a hint of lavender. She smiled to herself; it was nice to be pampered sometimes.
Phaelan opened the letter. It was from Dumbledore announcing a meeting for that evening. Now she knew why Severus had arranged the bath. Phaelan undressed and slipped into the water feeling her tension seep away with the heat.
"Can I come through?" Called a voice from her living room.
She smiled, "Come on through Severus."
He walked into the bathroom and sat on the laundry hamper. Looking over, she saw he had removed his teaching robes and sat in his shirt sleeves. He also held something familiar in his hands.
"Is that what I think it is?" Phaelan asked.
"Mmh, my own blend. I crossed a fine sativa with a hardy indica and came up with this plant that grows extremely well in the green houses here." He told her as he continued to roll the roach. Putting it in his mouth, Severus pulled his wand, lit the end and inhaled as he closed his eyes.
"Better?" she asked.
"Much." He answered with a small grin. He came forward and sat beside the bath to share with her. Smiling, she took the roach and inhaled its heady smoke. Lying back, she closed her eyes and let the tendril of calm creep over her senses.
"Well?" he asked.
"Nice, very nice." She replied. Looking back at him, she saw the familiar look of marijuana use in his eyes. "Do you work with any other recreational chemicals?"
Leaning his back against the wall, he took another toke before answering, "I can but I don't."
"So," he changed the subject, "Are you ready for tonight?"
Phaelan was still feeling mellow from her first hit. "I will be if you share a little more."
He passed the roach once more and watched as she let the magic of the plant work on her.
"That's better." She decided. "I better not use any more. I have to fly on Saturday."
"As you wish, my Lady." He teased but he took the roach and using his wand, tamped the end to put it out. "Best not be too relaxed."
"Will it work Severus?" she was still unsettled about the meeting.
He reached out and stroked her cheek. "It will work; now would you like me to scrub your back?"
Phaelan smiled and reminded him, "Tuesday Severus, my potion is due on Tuesday."
Reaching for her loofa sponge, Severus leaned over to kiss her and whisper in her ear, "I await the hour with the greatest of anticipation."
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Dinner was a quiet affair, with the conversation centring on the upcoming auction and ball. Phaelan actually choked back some mashed potatoes and strawberry jelly under the scrutiny of the dour Potions Master.
They approached the room of requirement together as they had on the previous evening. Phaelan felt she was approaching the Captains mast aboard ship for punishment. Her mouth was dry and her stomach fluttered with butterflies. She began her breathing exercise; in, out, in, out.
Severus looked at her and saw her reticence. "Phaelan, what would happen if you had disrespected someone of superior rank in the Navy?"
"Well, that depends," she began, "How superior, the situation and how badly I mouthed off."
"Alright, we are not the military. The Headmaster is expected to take and evaluate criticism from his staff." Severus tried to sooth her nerves.
"Severus, I already told him the curriculum sucked. This was far more…personal." She said with a sigh.
Severus turned Phaelan towards him and held her shoulders in his hands. "Phaelan, he made the decision to hire you. Now he needs.. no.. he must realize the implications of his plan on his students. Do what I suggested and wait and see."
"Will you still want me if he fires me?" she asked in a little girl voice.
Severus chuckle quietly, "I will want you even if you force me to learn to drive your infernal Muggle car. There is nothing in creation that could make me 'not' want you Phaelan, remember that."
"Okay, I can do this." She said to convince herself. She took the steps forward to enter the Room of Requirement and balked at the last moment only to be shoved through by Severus. As she stumbled into the room she was thinking how much easier hand to hand combat was.
The room was configured as before and the occupants were the same. Phaelan quickly moved to the same chair she had sat on the night before only to find it disappear as she approached.
As she turned she saw Dumbledore's gaze upon her and returned it with a hesitant smile. Looking around at her fellow order members, Phaelan made her way forward. Only the smiles of the students on the sofa bolstered her confidence at that moment.
Dumbledore stood before the fireplace, regally robed in deep purple and gold. He watched his youngest professor approach meekly awaiting his censure. He watched as she came to military attention before him in her accustomed manner before a superior.
"Professor Dumbledore sir, "she began. "Yesterday evening, we were witness to great passion and enthusiasm on the part of my protégés in the DA. I was wont to support their efforts and zeal in our cause. I am most proud of their accomplishments and I support their desire to demonstrate what they have learned, Sir. My comments regarding your character were a result solely of the emotions released in the moment and I apologize and retract any defaming remark I may have made." Phaelan paused to breathe. "While my remarks regarding your person were discourteous, my thoughts regarding the DA and Harry in particular, were accurate, Sir." She concluded.
Thundering silence filled the room. All awaited Dumbledore's reaction to Phaelan's remarks knowing it would change the way the DA was regarded.
"Can your young charges come up with the strategy to defend Hogwarts and Hogsmeade before Christmas Break?" the old man asked.
Phaelan stared at Dumbledore for a moment before turning to the trio. They looked at each other and then shared a smile with Phaelan.
"Of course, Headmaster. We will have something tangible before that date." Replied Hermione with confidence.
"Miss McKenzie, I was harsh in my tone and gave the impression that I regarded you with less confidence than I have in the rest of the Order members. Rest assured that is not the case. I am most impressed with your abilities as a warrior and as a teacher. You are a valuable addition to Hogwarts and our world. Now, when can you get me some American sweets?" he asked with his familiar twinkle."
Phaelan looked at the old wizard and wondered if she was hearing correctly. She looked at Severus and Minerva who both had their hands over their mouths and realized the old man wasn't about to fire her or Obliviate her or otherwise hex her.
"Next Saturday Headmaster, when I fly again." She replied in a daze.
"Excellent, now about Faubert." The old man segued smoothly to the next subject while indicating Phaelan should sit in her restored chair.
"Yeah Harry, you were saying something about a weapon?" prompted Tonks.
"Well not a weapon like a knife or gun or something." Harry tried to explain. "More like a psychological weapon he could use for revenge."
"That's too Muggle for me mate," said Gillhooly with a grin, "You better spell it out."
"Professor Snape, how does Mr. Faubert feel about what has happened? I mean, is he angry, scared ashamed – how has he dealt with being forced to create this thing?" Asked Harry.
Snape frowned; it was hard to regard these students as peers suddenly. He sorely wanted to tell the boy to sod off and go polish his broom but there was something about how Potter looked at him…..
"I only spent a few hours with the Muggle scientist but I believe him to be a man of conviction and integrity. He was forced to do the bidding of the dark lord through a combination of intimidation and physical torture." Standing, Severus walked to the side of the fireplace and leaned on the mantle.
"From the conversation I had with him, I know he abhors what he had been forced to do. The very act of creating this creature is counter to his ethics and personal beliefs. He is a man already on the precipice of self destruction. The Dark Lord has already told him his daughters are forfeit; he has nothing left." Snape concluded.
Lupin looked between Harry and Severus. "You're considering asking him to conduct some kind of suicidal act to destroy his laboratory specimens, aren't you?" asked an astounded Remus.
Phaelan thought for a while and looked over to see the darkness in Severus' face.
"Severus," she began, "You have yet to look into his thoughts if he will let you."
Coming out of his ruminations, Severus took a deep breath and returned to his seat, "Indeed, I should look into his memories if for nothing else to see how his daughters were cursed."
Pursing her lips, Phaelan looked around the room at the people who had never contemplated asking anyone to sacrifice themselves as they were about to ask Faubert.
"If you find something Severus, if you were to promise to protect his daughters from harm, would he be likely to be willing?"
Snape nodded, "I believe so; they are all that he has left. He knows the Dark Lord will never release him and Bellatrix has already begun to use him as a toy."
"Then my friends, we must wait until Severus meets with this man again." Dumbledore stood and walked to the centre of the room. "The next thing to consider is the disposition of the Dr's Granger."
Harry and Ron looked at each other and then back at the Headmaster saying as one, "What?"
Smiling, Dumbledore looked at Hermione, "Well done Miss Granger. You do keep a secret well. You may fill your companions in later but for now let us move on." He looked around the room, "Any suggestions?"
Shacklebolt shifted uncomfortably, "Albus, we have no houses available and there are so many Muggleborn under our protection that we are placing them at risk by doubling up on the Keepers."
"Darcy Finnegan has been looking around Ireland for us but they already have such a large number of Wizard to Muggle marriages, they are not keen to become targets." Added Olwen.
Phaelan had an idea but needed to ask a question first. "Headmaster, what about the Magical community in the United States – I assume they have one?"
"What about them Miss McKenzie?" asked Dumbledore lightly.
Phaelan frowned, "Have they not offered to help? Couldn't we move people to America?"
Smiling Dumbledore contemplated where to start. "Well in the Americas there are two distinct Magical societies. The aboriginal groups from the Inuit in the North to the Incas in the South have kept themselves separate from the Euro-Asian influences for the most part. There is great enmity for past misdeeds during colonization. The community formed by the immigration of peoples from the east and west to the Americas are influenced by a leadership that escaped persecution in the Old Countries. They see Tom as a rightful plague on our society. They prefer isolation."
"But surely they can see ignoring this situation is the same as perpetuating the bigotry and hatred they thought to leave." expressed an astounded Phaelan.
"One would hope so, but history has shown that it tends to repeat itself. They were ignored by others when they were persecuted and so now reciprocate." Explained Dumbledore.
Taking a deep breath, Phaelan offered her solution, "I have a house in Maine; a Muggle house. It's currently unused, has five bedrooms, four bathrooms and a library along with the usual amenities." She looked at the Headmaster, "It belonged to my grandparents. I inherited everything when my grandmother died; there was no one else alive." She added almost apologetically.
"You would be willing to allow the use of your family home for a safe house Miss McKenzie?" Dumbledore asked seriously.
Phaelan snorted, "It's just sitting there empty with dust settling on everything. There are even two cars in the garage and a boat in dry dock."
"'Ere, are you filthy rich or somethin'?" exclaimed Tonks.
"My grandfather's family did well in industry during the war. I just happened to get born and survive long enough to inherit it. I don't choose to live that kind of life." Phaelan countered defensively.
"Well," said Lupin, "It appears we have a solution at hand."
"Oh, Professor, thank you," cried Hermione, "Thank you so much."
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Tuesday afternoon and thought of double potions with the Seventh years had Severus Snape pinching the bridge of his nose in anticipation of his impending headache.
They were in the middle of making Polyjuice potion. The Lacewing flies had been stewed for twenty-one days and were ready for the remaining ingredients. Once everyone was in the class would be sealed. None of the students could leave until everyone had returned to their own likeness or had been escorted to the Infirmary.
As they filed in, he noticed the whispering and elbow nudges from some of his house. They were up to something.
"Alright take your seats and stop acting like first years on a trip to Honeydukes." He snarled from behind his desk.
"We are at the final stage of the Polyjuice potion and to that end this class will be sealed barring entry and exit of anyone. You will not be excused for any reason so if you had to visit the facilities you are now out of luck." And with the slightest twitch of his wand, the door was barred and warded securely.
'One member of each team, get your cauldrons." He instructed. He watched as Hermione approached the side bench near where he was standing and took the few steps needed to be beside her.
"So, Miss Granger," he purred loud enough for her to hear, "Are you confident your potion will have no unforeseen results? The repercussions are quite serious if the draught is contaminated with…unexpected ingredients."
Looking back at the Potion's master with venom in her eyes, Hermione replied, "If there is contamination sir, it will be from a source other than Gryffindor. Certain gentlemen from your house were discussing that very subject, Sir." She snapped as she turned and strode over to Neville. She knew he meant the incident in second year but wouldn't allow him to bait her further.
With a wave of his wand the instructions appeared on the board behind him. Snape looked over the class as they set up the cauldrons over the flames wondering who planned to disrupt the experiment.
"The instructions are on the board; keep your mind on your work and your ingredients in your own workspace. Any fooling around and you'll be sorry you ever qualified for advanced potions." he warned in his silken smooth tone which was his most threatening.
Sitting at his desk, Severus marked papers while the class progressed. Looking at his watch, he noted how much time was left.
"You all should now be at the point where you are adding the Boomslang skin to simmer for thirty turns widdershins. When you have completed that step, you will stop and await further instructions." As he finished his orders, he began to walk around the room inspecting the potions progress so far. Nothing was so bad as to be toxic as far as he could see. Returning to the front he leaned on the front of his desk and waited.
"Now, you were instructed to bring with you a sample of hair in the sealed container that you were provided with. Let me see the container's." he asked as if the senior students were first years. "Good, now ladle out a small portion of your potion into the beaker."
Snape watched as his class obeyed. Just to the left, he saw Longbottom fumble and drop his hair sample on the floor where it rolled away. It came to a stop when Pansy Parkinson put out her foot. Bending over in a flurry of robes, she picked it up and returned it to red faced Neville who thanked her. Returning to his desk, he waited for the next instruction. Snape watched the action carefully but didn't see anything untoward.
"Alright, open the hair sample and drop a single strand into the potion in the beaker. On my order and ONLY when I say so, you will sample the potion." Ordered Snape.
Approaching the first table to his right, he indicated they should drink. Terry Boot and Anthony Goldstein turned into each other. Next, Ernie Macmillan and Morag McDougal also exchanged bodies.
"Nice one Ernie," commented Dean Thomas, "talk about changing positions." He laughed as Ernie and Morag were dating.
"Silence," Snape shouted as he came to Dean next. "Well?" Dean sipped and promptly became Mr. Filch. Snape shook his head and looked away. "Potter." He indicated Harry was next.
With a grimace Harry dropped in his hair and sipped. Suddenly there was no room behind his desk as he had become Hagrid, wide grin and all. He shook off his robes showing the clothes he had borrowed just for this moment. "Couldn't walk around with my backside hanging out now could I?" The class was rollicking in laughter, even the Slytherin's.
Walking away with the bridge of his nose firmly pinched between his fingers, Snape muttered, "Ruddy Gryffindors." As he turned he yelled, "Enough! Potter move carefully to the back of the room. Do not damage anything or you'll find yourself in detention."
"Nott, you next." Snape indicated the Slytherin. Nott took a sip and became Elenor Branstone.
"Cradle Robber." Someone called out as Elenor was three years behind them.
"Hufflepuff?" asked Snape with a sneer. "Tut tut."
Walking up to Neville, he looked at the bane of seventh year potions. "Okay Longbottom," began Snape, "Let's get this over with."
Hesitantly, Neville dropped the hair in the potion and sipped. At first nothing happened then suddenly, he began to change. His hair grew and changed colour. His trousers began to tear as his legs became fused. Suddenly, Neville found he had difficulty breathing.
Snape realized almost at once exactly what was happening. Pushing students out of the way, he transfigured a table into a water tank filled with water.
"Potter," Snape yelled at his nemesis, "Get him in there quickly."
The transformed Harry stumbled forward and lifted Neville who was now one of the Merfolk. A moment later, Neville was underwater recovering from his ordeal.
Snape turned his attention back to the rest of the class. His temper was at the boiling point. A student had almost died in his charge; something he swore would never happen in his tenure as potions master.
"Miss Granger, go to the Headmaster and ask him to join us then request Madam Pomfrey to attend to assess Mr. Longbottom. Hurry." Snape instructed quietly as he unwarded the door.
Hermione left at a run, afraid of what Snape was capable of in his current mood.
Turning slowly and deliberately, Severus made his way to the lecture podium. Taking a deep breath he looked over the students once more. Silence reigned and a frisson of fear passed around the room.
"Let us assess what has occurred." He intoned as though it were a call to prayer.
"A Gryffindor has had his life threatened by an utterly stupid and malicious prank. Mr. Longbottom is not the brightest lantern in the lighthouse but even he understands the danger of cross-species transformation." Severus paused and gathered his thoughts.
"Was this a Gryffindor? Unequivocally no. Gryffindors defend their own unto death. They would never consider such an action let alone against one of their own. Ravenclaw? This would be beneath the intellect of a Ravenclaw. No resonance of research, nothing of value gained in knowledge." Again he paused in thought.
"The steadfast Hufflepuff while enjoying laughter would rather face the wrath of a dragon than hurt another so. That leaves Slytherin." Coming down from the lectern, he walked over to where the knot of people from his house had gathered.
"It saddens me when I look upon the current crop of youth Slytherin is burdened with. I see no subtlety, no cleverness. In fact, except for a select few, I see very little of the intelligence and guile that was the hallmark of Slytherin. What then are we left with; petty one-upmanship, stupid pranks, cheating, bribery. You think you can sit back on the laurels of your parents' achievements? Best you should disabuse yourselves of that notion." Snape spat in disgust.
" Now, I want to know who did it." Snape finished as he stood over them a dark presence they knew too well from his housemaster's mien.
Draco had distanced himself behind the table at the back of the room and watched, loathe to be part of the childish prank. He had heard what they had planned and had told them of how stupid their idea was but they were bound to make Gryffindor look foolish again. They forgot Snape hated accidents in his class. He may favour his own house but woe betide anyone who deliberately caused an accident.
"Who did it?" Snape spat again just as the Headmaster entered followed moments later by Poppy.
Dumbledore took in the scene before him and understood what had happened.
"My children, what have you done? Why must it always come to this..this foolhardiness?" the old man asked rhetorically.
"Headmaster, with your permission, I will administer Veritaserum." Snape said finally loosing patience.
"Not necessary sir, they'll tell you." Said Draco as he came forward to face his housemates. "Won't you." He demanded.
All the Slytherin's averted their gaze away from the Head Boy. Draco moved closer to Pansy and looked down at her crimson face.
"I will ask only once more, tell them or I will tell your father about your extracurricular source of income." Threatened Draco quietly.
Pansy looked up at the blonde. "Bastard. "She whispered before turning to Snape.
"It was me sir, I did it." Pansy confessed though she did not sound at all contrite.
Dumbledore looked at the young woman with disappointment in his eyes.
"I shan't ask you why, Miss Parkinson. Not here. Draco, please accompany Miss Parkinson to my office. Miss Granger, if you would join them." Dumbledore instructed. Looking around the room he saw the transformed students and smiled as he saw Hagrid and Filch among them.
"The rest of you remain here until you are yourselves once more. Then return to your dormitories until dinner. Severus, join me when you can." Dumbledore concluded and swept out of the room.
Poppy approached Snape with her professional look. "Well, he appears none the worse for now. He must remain where he is until he transforms back into our old Neville. You might want to transfigure the boy a pair of pants for when he gets his legs back. Send him to see me when he's himself again." She concluded with a nod and a dark look at the Slytherin's still in the class as she left.
Snape sat behind his desk, his headache now a throb between his eyes. Summoning a headache potion, he downed it in one. He hated taking medicine in front of the students but migraines were not a mitigating factor in homicide…yet.
"All of you sit and remain silent. When you return to your own form you may leave and go immediately to your dormitory as instructed by the headmaster." Snape ordered finally before leaning forward and closing his eyes for a few minutes. Harry/Hagrid looked around and finally settled for sitting on the floor.
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Severus had been missing at dinner as had the Headmaster. Phaelan looked over the tables and noticed the seventh years all looked particularly sombre. Some were missing. When Ron and Harry rose to leave, Phaelan followed them out.
"Mr. Potter, a moment of your time please?" Phaelan called as they reached the hallway.
Both boys stopped and turned thinking she wanted to speak about DA business.
When Phaelan caught up, she wasted no time on preamble, "What happened in potions this afternoon?"
Looking around Harry saw an empty classroom and indicated they should enter. He related the entire story including how Draco had forced Pansy to confess. Phaelan thanked him and returned to her own rooms to change. She needed to take her potion at some point in the next twelve hours.
Snapping her fingers, Phaelan summoned Dobby, "Is Professor Snape in his chambers Dobby." She asked.
"Yes Miss, "the elf replied, "Master Snape returned a few moments ago, I am to fetch supper." He told her worriedly.
"I won't hold you up Dobby. Thanks." Phaelan said as Dobby left with a pop.
Going to the fire, Phaelan threw in powder and called out. "Severus, are you there, can I come through?"
A moment later he had answered and she stepped into his chambers. They were darker than usual and Severus looked as tired as she'd ever seen him. She approached him quietly and sat beside him on the sofa.
"A headache, "she asked quietly.
'Mmh." He moaned as Dobby popped in with a tray.
"Dobby is bringing you Supper Master, do you need me to do anything else for you?"
"Yes, kill the Droxy in my skull." Snape replied.
"Sir?" asked the elf in confusion.
Taking a deep breath, Snape sat up, "No nothing Dobby, that will be all."
Coming behind him, Phaelan began to massage his shoulders and neck."Mmh, that feels wonderful, "he told her as she kneaded out the knots in his muscles.
"Do you want me to come early morning for the potion?" Phaelan asked, concerned that he was too tired.
Severus shook his head, "No, you should take it before bed. It works better that way."
Coming to kneel in front of him, Phaelan pulled his face to hers and kissed him lightly, "Then eat and I will draw a bath. Meet you there in a few minutes." She told him as she stroked his face.
How ever did I make it through this Purgatory with out her around; wondered Snape biting into the sandwich from his supper tray. Best not look a gift horse in the mouth as the Muggles say though why they ever would Severus never understood.
Joining her in the bath a few minutes later, Severus enjoyed her attentions as she revelled in his. Moving finally to his bedroom, Severus summoned her potion and bid her lie on his knee as she had the first time. While the potion still made her feel languorous, she didn't fall asleep. After dowsing the candles, Severus joined her in bed and pulled her to him.
Cupping her face, he kissed her with soft passionate longing as he moved to stroke her gently from her neck to her knees. She purred like a cat and arched against him.
"Do you know how much I've missed you?" he murmured against her mouth.
Phaelan smiled and stroked his face, "It's been only a few days Severus. Surely you're not that needy."
"Needy? Woman you are my addiction. There can never be enough or too much." He teased.
"I missed you too," she admitted, "I missed waking with you and your friend."
"The answer is simple; move in here full time." He suggested.
"We must maintain decorum sir, we are teachers." She retorted.
"Bugger them all, they can put up with it." He said as he nibbled on her ear.
"Seriously, Severus, I want my own chambers for now. I'm not ready to become a live-in lover again. Not yet. Let's keep things as they are for now. I'm only a fireplace away after all."
Severus pulled back and looked at her. "Will you be ready one day?"" he wondered.
"Yes, I'm sure I will; just not today." She replied.
"Then lets not waste time talking when there are so many other, more pleasant things to do." Severus muttered before coming over her to kiss his way down her body.
Phaelan stopped him before he reached his goal and flipped him onto his back to straddled him. Taking charge, Phaelan gave each of them the release they needed. Finally, leaning forward, Phaelan rested on his chest as his breathing returned to normal. Severus wrapped his arms around her and held her to his body as he stroked her back. His Lady; Lady Phaelan.
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A/N 1. For a longer version of the final scene for the over 18's see AFF
A/N 2.
Minerva says - Dinna be sae daft man, ken we see the way you two leuk at each other. Ye might keep it frae the scholars but ye canna hide if frae us. Now, away wi ye."
Translation – Don't be so silly man, understand, we can see the way the two of you look at each other. You might keep it hidden from the students but you can't hide it from us. Now, go on."