COMPONENTS AND PROCESSES

Disclaimer: This is a non-profit tribute to the works of JK Rowling who created and, together with her publishers and licensees, owns the characters and settings elaborated herein.

A/N: Spoilers to OotP, not HBP-compatible. Thanks to all my reviewers and my previewer, Bellegeste.

"For Monday, a scroll on the components and processes of brewing Veritaserum. Pay particular attention to the effect of kinetics – stirring directions, for those dunderheads who've forgotten what it means. Miss Weasley and Mr Creevey, a word with you after class. The rest of you, dismissed."

Ginny and Colin exchanged apprehensive glances from opposite ends of the room. You never knew with Snape, but he hadn't mentioned detentions. They waited by his desk as he scowled and tapped his fingers. As the dungeon door clanged shut behind the stragglers, he spoke without looking up.

"Professor Dumbledore has given permission for you to attend Miss Granger's coming of age party in London next Thursday night, under my chaperonage. Your parents have also given consent."

Are you taking us, sir?" Colin gasped.

"Don't interrupt!" snapped their teacher. "I'm not in the habit of practical jokes so there's no reason to doubt the evidence of your ears. If you were indeed listening, which your abysmal results lead me to doubt." He glowered at the two Gryffindors, who quickly dropped their eyes.

"You'll meet me at the doors to the Great Hall at 5.30 pm." He pulled out two cards and flicked them one each. "Dressed appropriately. You should be able to transfigure something if your wardrobes prove inadequate." He narrowed his black eyes menacingly. "I will expect the three of you, yourselves and Miss Lovegood, to be on time and to behave for the entire duration of the trip in an exemplary fashion. That's all." He waved them away.

"Umm, sir, have you told Luna or did you want us to?" Ginny ventured.

"I'm quite capable of dealing with all such details myself, Miss Weasley. Hurry along or you'll be late for your next class."

"Yes, sir, thank you, sir," they gabbled and fled.

As soon as he was alone, he pulled out Hermione's last letter.

Dear Severus,

Ballet is a dance that you watch. Only specially trained people dance it, as it requires perfect control of your limbs and posture. It's quite formal and extremely graceful. When I was little, I wanted to be a ballerina and I studied for a few years, but I didn't have strong enough feet – or much aptitude. I tried my hardest, but I just wasn't good enough. It's one of my more painful pre-Hogwarts memories, actually, but I still love to watch a performance. Giselle opens with the Pavlov on Sept 22.

I'm amazed that Professor Dumbledore allows some students out for my party – How did he know I wanted them? – and still more amazed that you've agreed. Are you sure you don't mind? I know you prefer to keep a certain distance. If it wouldn't ruin things for you, I'd love to have Ginny, Colin and Luna, and I'll write Draco to keep the numbers even. Please let me know and thanks so much.

Hermione

His reply had been short.

Expect four from Hogwarts. Dumbledore always knows and loves meddling. I keep my promises.

Snape

A/N Giselle really did open with the Pavlov on September 22, 1998.