Meddling with Potions

by DragonGoddess629

Aurora-Nyx is asked to return to Hogwarts to teach a new Potions course. Now in the presence of Severus Snape, she must remember a past neither are ready to face. In time, both come to terms with their grievances, working hard to rekindle their friendship and face the love they once held. But with the threat of Voldemort's return, she must decide where her loyalties lie.

13. Chapter 13

Chapter Thirteen

I Don't Want to Be the Reason You Die

A/N: Ta-da! I'm getting pretty good with my updates. Hopes this was what my readers were looking for. We've got some good chapters coming up in the future – I cannot wait to start on those. Please enjoy. Any comments, advice, or even guesses on what the future holds for our adorable couple could be quiet amazing.

And, well, my birthday IS this Friday…Just saying :)

Disclaimer: I only own Aurora and any other OC's.

~ oOo ~

The summer after her first year of teaching was spent in pure bliss, as Aurora spent the weeks within Spinner's End, allocating her time around her black cat Merlin, her dragon Sapphire, and most importantly, Severus. The two rarely left the confines of the male professor's home, spending their time cleaning every inch of the old household, concocting numerous potions in the basement, and simply enjoying the others company.

Each week flew by quickly, and Aurora was saddened when September was closing in on the pair, as they would be required in returning to the castle to begin the new year for all the witch and wizard students. As August crept upon their doorstep, both professors began establishing their notes for the upcoming year, more so with Aurora as she was adding a second course to her curriculum and wanted to be extra prepared for the first day.

But as much planning as she had done, nothing could truly prepare the witch for the new year, but she was still as excited as ever. With August coming to a close, Severus and Aurora decided to travel to Diagon Alley as they both were needing to stockpile on supplies, both for their classroom and personal wares. Dressed and ready to go, they apparated to The Leaky Cauldron, nodding in the direction to individuals they were familiar with and made their way towards the back. Tapping his wand upon the brick, Severus opened the back door and they entered the infamous "shopping center" for witches and wizards alike.

Diagon Alley was bustling with children and their parents. Aurora smiled as she saw the smiles and gleaming faces of new students, buying their required items needing for their first year at Hogwarts. Several students waved or said hello as they passed by their professors; Aurora reciprocating their attention as Severus walked with a blank façade by her side, groaning in slight annoyance at the nonstop clatter surrounding and filling his ears.

Aurora laughed as they maneuvered in and out of the crowds, knowing exactly where they needed to go first. "Severus, if you don't like teaching kids, you should quit being a teacher and open your own apothecary."

"Aurora, we've had this discussion before," her wizard replied, annoyance clipped within his tone. "And you know why I became a teacher in the first place, remember that."

"Oh, touchy," Aurora stated, eyes focusing on Flourish and Blotts. Freezing in her spot, several individuals nearly ran into her, but her focus was somewhere else, even as different people attempted to apologize. The Potions Professor was oblivious to her halting until she asked, "Uh, Severus?"

"Yes Aurora?" Severus turned his attention away from her, noticing they were nearing the Cauldron Shop.

"Is that Lucius Malfoy?" Looking in her direction, Severus could, indeed, see his old friend, along with his son Draco through the window to the bookstore. Moving in its direction, Aurora could see Draco's father speaking with the Weasley children, and the expressions on their faces detailed the conversation wasn't in good faith.

"Aurora…" Severus called her name, tinting her name with a strong emphasis. She began walking in the direction of the store and the wizard knew what she wanted to do.

"I'll go get the supplies we need from Flourish, and meet you at the apothecary?"

"Must you say something to Lucius? Or is it because he's speaking to the Weasleys?"

"Severus…" Turning, the wizard could tell that what she was seeing within the shop was striking a nerve. He knew the woman had a soft spot for those who were being belittled, and Severus felt he should reciprocate the same as her but had grown to simply push it towards the back of his mind, as he had never done as a student himself.

Shaking his head, Severus exhaled before muttering, "Do what you must," and then walked off through the crowd and into the cauldron shop. Breathing in, Aurora quickly made her way to the bookstore opening and was able to hear the ending bit of Lucius' incredulous statement. "What's the use of being a disgrace to the name of wizard, if they don't even pay you well for it."

"We have a very different idea about what disgraces the name of wizard, Malfoy," Arthur Weasley replied, face set in aggravation at his coworker's statement. Walking around the head of the Malfoy family, Aurora tapped the man's shoulder, a sneer upon his lips as he noticed the individual at his side, the one who had the audacity to touch him.

"Ah, if it isn't Aurora Warrington. My dear, it has been some time since I've last seen you. Still teaching at Hogwarts for the upcoming year, I see?"

"Of course I am, Lucius. Who else will be teaching your son Medicinal Potions during his second year?" Both peering over at Draco, the platinum haired boy glared at the female professor as his father returned his gaze towards her.

"Yes, I read in the letter from Dumbledore about the new course being added. Is that really necessary, to have the Second Years partake in two potion courses? Draco received an Outstanding in Severus' Potions course last year, just ask him about it. They learned basic medicinal brews during their First Year. Must they need another?" Lucius sneered, having seen his son's grades, and how the boy earned an Acceptable in Aurora's course. "Though, I have heard from Draco that you and my old friend seem to be very close."

Chuckling as she shook her head, Aurora couldn't help but smile. "Oh, trust me, I have spoken with Severus on the matter. But in my Medicinal Potions course, please remind your son to put in the effort that will be needed to receive in Outstanding in my course this year."

Tightening his grip upon the silver snakehead of his walking stick, Lucius was growing flustered, and Aurora was secretly proud. "Are you insinuating something, Ms. Warrington?"

"I would never, Mr. Malfoy. Simply an observation from the previous year."

Lip slightly curling, Lucius held a straight face before ignoring Aurora and returning his attention back to the head of the Weasley family. "Clearly, we do have a difference in opinions, Arthur. But associating with Muggles…" Emphasizing his last word, Lucius moved his attention down towards Hermione before lingering on Aurora as he turned his head. "…and I thought your family could sink no lower. I'll see you at work," was the last sentence he stated before dropping Ginny's textbook back into her cauldron, sophisticatedly removing himself from Flourish and Blotts.

Releasing a strenuous sigh, Aurora couldn't believe she had just run into one of the individuals who had annoyed her most when she was a student. But the woman halted her thoughts when she was suddenly enveloped within Arthur's arms as he hugged her tightly. "Aurora Warrington! It is so good to see you my dear!"

Returning his embrace, the female smiled, happy that his demeanor hadn't changed in front of his children, despite the crude remark Lucius had stated. "Arthur, it is so good to see you too, my old friend! Is Molly here with you?"

"Oh yes, yes, she's getting some copies signed by Gilderoy Lockhart, apparently she fancies him," the father stated as he stared at his youngest son.

"Wha'? She does, dad!" Ron said as he and the other Weasley children, along with Harry and Hermione greeted their professor.

"I am so glad to see the summer break has treated you all well. Any of you ready for the new year to begin?" All groaned except for Percy, who exclaimed his excitement for the new year as he was a Prefect for Gryffindor once again. She couldn't help but smiled at their mixed reactions when Mrs. Weasley appeared from around the end of the crows, waiting to meet Gilderoy Lockhart.

"Aurora? Is that you?!"

"Molly!" Handing the textbooks she currently held to her husband, Molly wrapped her arms around Aurora. "Oh my, it has been some time since we've last seen each other!"

Aurora couldn't help but laugh. "It has! Your husband has said the same thing, my dear."

"Goodness! When Ronald came home at the end of last term and stated who his professors were, we couldn't believe you had started teaching at Hogwarts!"

At the mention of his name, the red-haired boy looked up at his professor. "You never told us you knew our parents!"

"You never asked, Ron. I went to school with your older brothers, and you forget that I have worked with Charlie." They spent a few moments together, simply chatting and speaking with each student, answering any questions they had for their upcoming year. Sadly, Aurora knew that Severus would be waiting for her and she didn't want to keep him waiting any longer than he already had. "Arthur, Molly it was great seeing the two of you again – and I am so glad to be able to have Ginny in my class next year! But I do have to get going and purchase the required items I need; my companion has been waiting on me and I don't want to keep them waiting."

Molly hugged the female professor one more time. "Do not hesitate to owl us anytime. And please, let us know how the children are doing in their courses." Arthur nodded in agreement as he wrapped an arm around his wife."

"Oh, I have no doubt they will do great things," Aurora stated as she glanced between Harry, Rona and Hermione, causing the three Second Years to smile sheepishly as the professor wave goodbye and exited the store.

Walking out into Diagon Alley, Aurora was met once more with the bustling crowd of eager students. Zigzagging her way through the crowd, Aurora crossed the cobblestone path to the next shop on her list. Moving through the diverse isles, she grabbed parchment, quills, ink and anything else she or Severus needed to grab. By the time she reached the counter, her arms were full of various products, but she smiled at the witch before the register and smiled as she handed her the required payment.

With a bag over her arm, the witch left the store and walked further down the alley to the apothecary. Wearing a smile, Aurora was happy, reminiscing the times she spent with her mom and step-dad gathering the items she needed for each year. Her mindless thinking caused Aurora to almost bypass the store she sought, and as she walked closer to the open door, she could visibly see Severus speaking with Lucius, Draco not far from his side. As the blonde wizard was slightly turned, his back towards her, the witch could see his face was neutral, but the expression he wore spoke volumes combined with the words leaving his mouth. Quickly catching Severus' eye, Aurora held a finger to her lips as she cast an illusion charm, temporarily cascading herself to match the scenery around her. The woman wanted to hear what both wizards were saying, and as she carefully tip-toed her way to squat behind the aisle next to them, Aurora wasn't at all surprised to find their discussion was about her.

"So, you have been growing close to her, ah, Severus?"

"I won't deny your statement, Lucius. But the point in speaking on the matter?"

"My son has noted that you two seem fairly close. I just wanted to speak with an old friend and see if such a statement could be deepened into something else?" Lucius raised an eyebrow, his inquisitive nature seeking an answer.

"I know what it is you're speculating, Lucius."

"Oh, you do? So, am I correct in my assumption that you and…Ms. Warrington…are together in corporeal relations?"

Aurora nearly gasped and forced a hand over her mouth. Shrinking her body down further against the ground, she was nervous to hear what Severus was to reply. Neither had discussed what they would do if someone confronted them regarding their relationship, but caught in this moment, she internally pleaded for Severus to lie. And whether or not the man read her mind, Severus was a saint.

"Lucius, Ms. Warrington is nothing more than a fellow colleague and a friend. The only relationship occurring between the two of us is regarding our work; she assists me in her spare time with grading papers my dunderhead students barely complete."

Though she refused to turn around the corner and look, Aurora knew Lucius was smirking as he clasped his old friend upon the shoulder. "I am glad to hear that, Severus. What good comes out of establishing a relationship with a Mudblood such as herself?" Tightening the hand upon her mouth, Aurora bit down on her finger with enough strength she could taste the metallic scent of blood upon her tongue. It wasn't the first time she had been called such a name, but it doesn't excuse that fact that she was still called a discriminatory word for her birthright, something she had absolutely no control over. "Severus, it was good to see you, but we must return to the wife in preparation for dinner. Do stop by the manor sometime, Narcissa would love to see you. Come, Draco." Teeth still clenched upon her knuckle, Aurora remained in her spot, even after the echo of Lucius' heavy footsteps left her hearing, though she didn't hear another pair heading towards her hidden position.

"You can remove the charm, Aurora."

With the charm exposing herself crouched upon the floor, Severus knelt to her height, sight widening when he realized her finger was dripping blood. "Aurora…" She didn't want to cry, Aurora held the tears within the entire time, but being labeled as something so horrendous, so repulsive, the witch couldn't shake the tremors of her shoulders. Only a few tears fell before Severus reached forward with a cloth, cleaning her face before pulling her hand away from her mouth. Using the cloth to clean the blood, her wrapped her finger tightly so it wouldn't bleed anymore before pulling the witch to her feet. "Were you trying to keep yourself quiet?" She nodded, and Severus could do nothing but shake his head.

Severus had wanted to say something towards Lucius about his use of the word "Mudblood," but the man knew he couldn't jeopardize the position he held. "Aurora…you know I wanted to say something…"

"I know…" Glancing up at the wizard, Aurora shook her head. "I'm not…mad at that, though it does hurt…" Gently tracing the bandage upon her finger, Aurora whispered, "Can we go?" Nodding, Severus told Aurora to wait as he grabbed the last few items they needed, paid, and then apparated back to Spinner's End. Following Aurora through the first floor, Severus watched as she placed their belongings onto the kitchen table before she rushed passed him, taking the stairs two at a time before shutting the door to the room they shared.

It took the man several minutes, but upon hearing the soft crying of his witch upstairs, the wizard couldn't take it any longer. Sighing, Severus followed, placing the items down and making his way towards the echo of her cries.

Stopping outside his bedroom door, Severus raised his fingers to knock, only stopping when the wood opened on its own, revealing Aurora sitting upon the bed, knees curled into her chest, back firm against the headboard. What was he supposed to say? Severus found himself struck in déjà vu; he had called Lily a Mudblood, the person he thought he was in love with. Now, he was witnessing Aurora, the woman he loved unconditionally, breaking as an old friend of his called her the same tainted word.

"I'm not upset at you, Severus," Aurora pulled the man out of his reverie. Taking a step forward, the wizard wasn't sure if she needed time to herself or if he should console her.

"I should have said something," was his response.

"And what would you have said, Severus? If you had countered his statement, Lucius would've become suspicious. What would've happened then?"

"Aurora, I…"

"Voldemort could be returning, Severus." Narrowing his eyes, the man knew the intentions of her words, but wondered if she herself believed in them. But she noticed his look and glanced out the window. "Who knows? It seems possible. It's been quiet since his death twelve years ago, but suddenly his spirit appears last year? Who's to say what will happen in the future?"

Landing her legs on the floor, Aurora stood to full height, making her way over to Severus, who was still standing in the open doorway. In a quiet voice, she muttered, "Severus…you were probably the man Voldemort trusted the most. If he does come back, he'd expect you to return as one of his Death Eaters. What then? He would discover you're with me; the very being he's trying to extinguish!"

Heart rate increasing, Severus swallowed her words, but his mind wanted to throw them away. "Are you saying…?"

She shook her head. "Not that, no, never! I am saying this: I think it's best if we don't release the state of our relationship to others."

"Sadly, Albus and Minerva already know, though they're not one for gossip." Stepping forward, he rubbed his hands up her arms, eyes slightly red and puffy from her tears. "Hey…let this all out; I know what Lucius said cut you deep."

Cheeks growing red and eyebrows narrowing, Aurora hollered, "Of course it cut me deep! That ass of a man called me a bloody Mudblood, Severus! In front of his son, who happens to be our student! He…He…!"

"Hey, hey! Calm down, relax, I know…" Pulling her into his arms, Severus resumed his hands to rub against her back, harbored breathing gradually slowing. Relaxing against his chest, the witch inhaled her wizard's scent; musk and potion herbs, the same aromas she fell in love with several months ago.

"I…Severus?"

"Hm?"

"You don't…" Shaking her head, she turned away, muttering, "Probably not…"

"Speak, Aurora."

Wincing, Aurora asked, "You don't only see a Mudblood when you look at me like Lucius, do you?"

Tightening his arms around her, Severus didn't reply; knowing his silence would be mistaken, the professor was confused on how to answer. Curling her brown locks around his fingers, the male could only state what had been on the tip of his tongue since the moment he had seen Aurora in Albus' office one year ago. "Aurora…your brown hair is the first thing I love to see in the morning, followed by the bright smile you wear for both of us." Fingers moving from her hair to her lips, Severus traced every aspect of her persona as he spoke. "You're unbearably kind, selfless, and unnaturally cheerful." He could see the females grin worsen, but this only caused the man to widen his smirk. "I love everything about you, Aurora."

"Oh, Severus…"

With a kiss on her forehead, the male professor continued. "Aurora, you're magical in your own way, and I like to think I'm a better man when around you. I…you simply love me, Aurora Warrington. You being Muggleborn doesn't change the person you are; if anything, you became a strong, fiercely independent woman because of the torment you experienced, and that only makes me love you more."

"Well, well…Severus Tobias Snape, you sappy thing you. Someone's being very mushy right now."

Smirking devilishly, Severus merely kissed her head, muttering, "Hmph, don't expect it to often then."

Chuckling as a smile returned, her face still fell as she spoke. "Lucius' words are echoing within my head; I'm afraid to be your downfall. Blood means everything in today's wizarding world."

"Aurora… I didn't become a Death Eater for my hatred of Muggleborn's, as I'm a Half-Blood; I was seeking acceptance from my solitude, thinking the Dark Arts was my only escape. But, I can tell you this…if Voldemort were to return, I would remain a double-agent, that has not changed. Though I agree to your terms, we shouldn't worry about the future until it is upon our door."

"Severus…" Peering her head upwards, Aurora leaned forward, giving his lips a chaste kiss. "I don't want me being Muggleborn to be the reason for your death."

As she looked up and he down, Severus couldn't fathom the thoughts plaguing her mind, and refused to intervene in order to understand. Did she really fear she would be the cause of his death? Bloody hell, Aurora… he thought. Cupping her cheeks, Severus returned her kiss, touching their foreheads together. "Aurora…I'd risk death to ensure you remained alive, so I could love you for another day."

"But…!"

"You're worth the risk, Aurora. Now shut up and kiss me, you dunderhead."

~ oOo ~

The following weeks of summer flew by on the wings of an owl, but Aurora was not worried as the new school was upon her door. After the conversation she held with Severus, she locked the memory away and never looked back, though she knew the discussion would arise in the future. But taking her lover's words to heart, this was a matter that needed to be dealt with if it was upon their door; at that moment, they simply wanted to enjoy each other's presence. In the weeks that were left, they looked over their teaching notes for the next year, and Aurora still sought Severus' assistance with her Medicinal Potions course, but he reminded her each and every time that she was prepared as much as she could be.

It was a calming, and loving, summer break, one neither Severus nor Aurora was ready to be over. But in the last week, their trunks were packed, and anything they needed was ready to be moved to Hogwarts. Spending all their time in each other's presence, the professors had agreed to use their individual personal chambers, just as they had the year before, though a certain female witch wasn't too thrilled on the idea. Severus, at times, admitted his disdain for the idea, but knew it was for the best. Though their relationship was, indeed, important, they were there to teach the students, and that needed to come first.

Thought, to be honest, Severus wasn't excited to go back and teach new dunderheads that probably wouldn't reach his level of expectations.

Several days before term would begin, the couple grabbed their belongings and apparated, leaving Spinner's End before welcoming the warming sight of Hogwarts, their new home for the next nine months. Each quickly unpacked their belongings, confirming each personal item was set in place, before meeting the other for a private dinner. Since summer began, Severus found he needed to be in Aurora's presence, as her company was not only heartening and gracious, but the Potions Master discovered he became temperamental, more so than before. Her aura was calming, along the notion that he simply wanted to be beside the woman he loved, needing to hold her in his arms. Whether he treated others better than he did, the male felt as if was a better person; his sins washed away when she graced him with her smile. Severus knew Aurora viewed him as a person, and that was enough to wash away his sins and be the man she needed.

But…what she had said concerning Voldemort returning had the man sitting on the edge of his chair. There was a chance, a slim one at that, the Dark Lord would return; Dumbledore was the one who had even stated such a fact. In that moment, Aurora was deathly afraid she would be the reason for his death, because of his association with her, for simply being a Muggleborn. In Severus' mind, the logic was backwards, opposite, upside down, however you wanted to look at the scenario. The wizard felt he would be the cause of her death, knowing the Dark Lord would murder Aurora, while simply cursing Severus to oblivion and back once the death in her eyes stared solely at him.

Despite his resolve to protect the woman he loved at all costs, Severus was still on the fence. There was one action, one remaining withdrawal that could be executed, but was afraid to do so. Such an action would cost him everything, and the man wasn't sure if he was prepared for the loneliness of such a consequence.

The day of arrival for the new and returning students was upon everyone's door, as the Headmaster and all professors were finishing up the last touches they needed for the new year. In his Potions classroom, Severus glanced around, knowing the desks wouldn't look this clean until the end of the year, as cauldrons of various potions and brews would clutter all available counter space. A few doors down, he knew Aurora was fixing her secondary classroom for the Potions course she would be teaching all Second Years. They had barely seen each other since breakfast, but as dinner was approaching, they met at the entrance to the dungeons, making their way towards the Great Hall.

Darkness of the night sky had fallen over the ancient castle, but the air was clear of all clouds, casting a beautiful glow over Hogwarts as the starts twinkled in their forever locations. Once in the Great Hall, Aurora welcomed the professors, questioning how their summer had been and if they were ready for a new year. Before she knew it, she and Severus had taken their original seats at the head table as their colleagues followed the same. Albus and Minerva walked in, claiming their seats and waited, breaking the silence in stating who the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher would be.

Oh yes, Severus and Aurora had received their letters from the Headmaster during the summer break that Gilderoy Lockhart would replace the late Professor Quirrell in the new position. In the kindest ways Severus could manage, he immediately stated his opinion on the new professor's success, and Aurora was tempted to agree. She honestly felt Albus had been cornered in hiring a new professor; who would want the position after the way Professor Quirrell's life had ended?

As they spoke on the new year, the teachers were silenced as the Great Hall was opened by Argus Filch, trailed by the lot of returning students filing in by House, seating with their group of friends, waiting for the Sorting Ceremony to being. With the head table in sight, Filch beelined for Severus, walking around to speak with the Potions Master quietly. Aurora was only able to understand a few words, but Severus leaned over, whispering in her ear for Aurora to follow, she walked behind both Filch and Severus as they left through the door behind their seats. Severus glanced at Albus and knew her companion was mentally sharing their destination and reason for leaving to the Headmaster, who nodded in acknowledgement.

Walking through different secret passageways, Filch separated, stating he was to wait near the Great Hall and would meet them in Severus' office when ready. Arching an eyebrow, Aurora quickened her pace until she walked side-by-side with the male. "May I ask why we are leaving the Sorting Ceremony? Has something happened?"

His voice was low, seemingly upset, but the witch was confused as hell. "It would seem, according to what some of my Slytherins have stated to Filch, that Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley were not aboard the train from London."

"Now that doesn't make any sense. I saw his brother Percy just a few minutes ago when he walked into the Great Hall!"

"I can't explain why." Appearing at his office door, Severus opened as Aurora followed the man inside as he walked to his desk, taking a seat. "You'll find this part fairly interesting."

Leaning against the corner of his desk, Aurora chuckled. "Oh really? And what is that?"

"Apparently, there was a flying car the train almost ran into not long after leaving King's Crossing. And supposedly, whoever was in the car almost fell to their death as they lost control trying to flee as they were about to be killed by the train."

"No!" Severus shook his head. "You don't think…?"

"Oh, I do, Aurora."

"There's no way, absolutely no way. Where on earth could they have come into possession of a flying car? And what why would they have had to use that instead of the train to arrive at Hogwarts?"

"I'm not too sure. In the Great Hall, Filch told me that he saw a blue flying car falling towards the branches of the Whomping Willow as the rest of the students entered the castle. He's left to see who it could be. Whoever it is, they certainly will face the consequences of their actions."

"Hm," Aurora scratched her neck, seemingly uncomfortable.

"I've noticed you don't like giving detentions, Aurora, nor do you rarely deduct House Points."

"It's…well, I'm not one for punishment, Severus…" Rubbing the skin on her cheek before sweeping the length of hair over one shoulder, she finally whispered, "My father used punishment in a negative way. So, I…I truly only give detentions or reprimand a student when it's necessary."

Shaking his head for asking, Severus reached across his desk, grasped her hand and held it to his lips, color instantly emerging across her luscious cheeks. "I…I apologize for bringing this up."

"Don't be," was he quick response. "Besides, I didn't really have students misbehave in my classroom. Well, Draco was a brat the first day, but other than that, nothing."

"Tch, you're too soft, Ms. Warrington."

"And you're positively too tough, Mr. Snape."

Both professors glanced at each other before Aurora removed her gaze, with several moments passing before the soft thud of footsteps echoed across the corridor. With a knock upon the entryway, both Aurora and Severus turned to the door to see Filch standing, arms crossed as Mrs. Norris was poised gracefully at his feet. "Professors? I've brought them." As Filch walked in, Harry and Ron followed on his heels, confusion etched across their faces as they saw Severus, but were surprised when they noticed Aurora by his side.

"Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley," Aurora sternly pronounced their names.

Harry nodded, while Ron stuttered with his reply. "M-Ms. W-W-Warrington."

"Severus, you'll want to see this." Filch handed the Potions Master a copy of The Dailey Prophet, tilting his head in Aurora's direction, indicating he wanted her besides him. "Mrs. Norris brought this to my attention. Apparently, this is the latest edition, printed almost two hours ago; check out the front page."

Being a quick reader that she was, Aurora skimmed the piece, patiently waiting for Severus to finish before opening the newspaper to the rest of the article; the magical pictures captured perfectly what had been witnessed at Kings Crossing earlier that morning. Hand over her mouth, Aurora couldn't believe what the children had done. Surely there must've been a reason; but what? What could have caused them to miss the train? Aurora doubted Arthur and Molly were late enough that their youngest son couldn't board. If so, why had Percy been in the Great Hall before she left nearly ten minutes prior?

Idly standing by, both Second Years fidgeted as their professors read the article, detailing their escapade earlier that day, what they had done, and all who had seen. Slapping a hand against her forehead, Aurora couldn't contain the groan as it left her lips. Disappointment flooded her eyes and she glanced between the two boys. They could see what she was thinking, and she hoped they understood what this meant. If not, Severus was about to unleash the wrath of his opinion.

"You were seen, by no less, than seven Muggles." Slamming the paper against his desk, Severus narrowed his glare in their direction, as the two boys gulped, the state of their future was currently in their hands. Straightening, her back, Aurora stood at the man's side, waiting her turn to speak, actually wanting Severus to threaten the boys due to their inexcusable conduct. "Do you have any idea how serious this is?" When neither twelve-year-old spoke, Aurora's hope concerning their knowledge of the consequences for their actions was faulting.

"You have risked the exposure of our world! Not to mention the damage you inflicted on a Whomping Willow that's been on these grounds since before you were born."

"Honestly, Professor Snape, I think it did more damage to us."

Oh Ronald Weasley… Aurora disapproved in her head.

"Silence!"

Placing a firm hand on his shoulder, Severus quieted his voice for a few minutes, allowing the witch to speak. He straightened in his chair, watching the woman as she walked around the other side of the desk, arms crossed, frown evident upon her features. "Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, do either of you acknowledge that what you have done was unacceptable, but also illegal, being that you are under the age of seventeen?" The boys looked at each other, their fear was evident.

"Professor, please, we had no other choice!" Harry cried. "The gate sealed itself as we tried to pass through!" Beside him, Ron frantically nodded his head in agreement.

Glancing down at Severus in his seat, both professors had no idea what they were speaking of. "It that was the case, why didn't you owl the school, or your Headmaster? If there was something hindering you from arriving on time, Dumbledore would've understood the situation and allowed the train to bring you here on another day!" Aurora was completely exasperated, but maybe they were truly afraid of missing the train, that they wouldn't have been allowed to complete their second year as students.

"We didn't…" Ron began, but he nudged his friend to continue.

"We were too focused on getting to Hogwarts. We didn't think of the consequences…"

"Boys, as students here at Hogwarts, you are here to learn, and to practice. But are spells and enchantments and brewing potions the only knowledge you think you're learning?" Neither answered, neither wanting to admit they didn't understand the question. "Harry, Ron…you and the other students here are learning to be functional wizards within our community. Through each year you reside here, you are being tested to see if you can comprehend the difference between what is right, and what is easy. We want to see our students using their mind, to distinguish when it is the appropriate time to use your magic, and when it isn't."

Aurora closed her mouth, not sure what else to say. The witch knew it in her heart the boys meant well, but their actions outweigh their reasoning. By her side, Severus removed himself from the desk and snaked his way around towards the children, his voice filled with poison and dissatisfaction. "I assure you, that were you in Slytherin and your fate rested with me, the both of you would be on the train home – tonight! As it is…"

"They are not!"

Standing to his full height, Severus looked towards his door and witnessed the appearance of both Albus and Minerva, having followed them after the Sorting Ceremony had most likely concluded. The boys noticed their presence as well when Harry noted, "Professor Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall." Aurora nodded in their direction as they looked between her and Severus.

"Headmaster," Severus stated. "These boys have flouted the Decree for the Restriction of Underage Wizardry. As such – "

"I am well aware of our bylaws, Severus, having written quiet of a few of them myself," Dumbledore grinned, but turned serious regarding the matter at hand. "However, as head of Gryffindor House, it is for Professor McGonagall to determine the appropriate action."

"We'll go and get our stuff then…" Ron replied in general, voice dripping with shame and disappointment.

"What are you talking about, Mr. Weasley?" Minerva questioned, glancing down at the saddened boy.

"You're going to expel us, aren't you?"

Noting their quiet demeanors, Minerva only slightly softened her gaze, knowing they had meant well, and not purposely tried to expose the wizarding world to the Muggle community. "Not today, Mr. Weasley. But, I must impress on both of you the seriousness of what you have done. I will be writing to your families tonight, and you will both receive detention. Do you both understand?"

"Yes ma'am," they said in unison.

"Good. Now, off to bed, both of you. Ms. Granger can fill you in on what you missed during the feast." Turning their attention towards Aurora and Severus, the witch provided a small smile while the wizard glared in their direction. Quickly leaving Severus' office, Aurora stole his seat once they were gone and sighed.

"O chará mou kalosýni…"

"Aurora…you slipped into Greek again," Severus muttered as he walked behind her and leaned against the stone wall.

"Nothing important, just said my sweet goodness. I can't believe what those boys did."

"Aurora," Minerva interjected as she walked closer. "Might I ask you something?" The witch nodded. "What would you have done?"

Tilting her head, the witch asked, "Done what, Minerva?"

"The boys punishment; what would you have given them?"

All eyes turned to Aurora as she sat straighter in the chair, elbows leaning against the hard wood of the desk. "W-Why ask me? I'm not a Head of House or anything. This is only my second year of teaching!"

"Yes, you are correct, Aurora. But you are fair and just. We heard what you told the boys in the hallway. You consider the students actions and then base your judgment upon what you deem appropriate for what they have done," Albus answered for Minerva.

"O chará mou kalosýni," she repeated. "To be honest…I'm not sure. I don't know the whole situation, nor their exact reasoning to using the enchanted car over owling a professor here, but their motives seemed honest, they believed they had no other choice. It didn't seem that they were in it just because they could. I think they were truly terrified about missing the train and the only thought they had was that they had to get to Hogwarts."

Groaning, Aurora grabbed the bridge of her nose. "Minerva, your punishment was justified. However, will you be owling Harry's family as well?"

"I must."

"That's where I would have differed. Weasley's parents need to know, since the car most likely belonged to Arthur, but Potter doesn't have anyone who would understand your letter, nor accept it."

"Aurora, you're saying that each boy should serve separate punishments?"

"Mhm. Personally, I would still owl Mr. Weasley's parents and he would serve detention, whereas Harry serve only detention, but twice as long."

Minerva nodded her head. "I see where you are going."

"Again, it's just my opinion! I don't want to seem I'd give Potter a more just punishment over Weasley it's just…I don't know."

Walking towards her colleague, Minerva clapped Aurora on the arm. "I appreciate your honesty. I may seek you out if he serves detention with you."

"I guess I'll look forward to that."

Cutting in, Albus stated, "It's been a long evening, everyone. Let's all eat some pudding and head to bed. Each of you has an early day tomorrow, am I correct?"

Aurora chuckled. "Yes, Headmaster."

With three individuals leaving his office, Severus and Aurora were alone as Filch closed the door on his way out. Still sitting in his chair, Aurora rotated the device until she was facing him. "What do you think of this of situation?"

"I may not agree with Minerva's decision, but I must respect it nonetheless. It is out of my hands now."

"And I'm going to leave it at that." Standing, the witch wrapped her arms around the wizard's neck, pulling his attention towards her. "Hey, stop sulking."

"I don't sulk."

"Then what's with the frown on your face? I'm fairly certain I can think of a few things to turn that frown upside down?"

The ever-handsome smirk Aurora loved so much finally graced Severus' face. "Oh really now."

"Yes, really, but first? Let's head down to the kitchens and get some dinner, we skipped it, remember? I'm starving."

"If you insist, but I prefer eating you, my darling," Severus gently swatted her behind as she made her way towards the door, as the kitchens weren't that far from the dungeon – luckily.

"There's that mushiness again. I'm starting to like it."

"If you mention this to anyone…"

"Hm…you know? I think I'm gonna head to the Astronomy Tower. There's a great echo up there. I think I'm just gonna scream it to the world how amazingly sweet and mushy you can be!" Leaping, Aurora rushed towards the door, but alas, Severus was quicker as he gripped her waist, throwing her body over his shoulder, turned, and walked back towards his desk.

"You're not one to give a punishment when it's not needed, but I'm the opposite. And I think you need to be punished thoroughly, Aurora."

Groaning as he nearly dropped her upon his desk, Aurora pulled the man closer and captured his lips with hers. Grinding his lower abdomen into hers, it caused the witch to growl, her focus solely on the man her legs her wrapped around. "I love you, Severus."

"And I you, Aurora. Now, I would greatly appreciate to dirty my desk before the term begins in the morning. It'll help ease the suffering of my dunderhead students."

"That's my nickname."

"Not when I'm making love to you it's not."

As pieces of clothing were strewn upon the floor, Severus waved his hand, ensuring the lock upon his office door was good and tight before he thrusted deep into the depths of the woman he treasured. Their screams of love and pleasure were heard by none other than their ears alone. Unfortunately for them, the couple was not aware of the upcoming year that was laid out before their feet. Their patience and devotion would be tested, their faults placed upon the edge of a knife, balanced upon the beating of each heart.

Let the second year begin.

~ oOo ~

"O chará mou kalosýni" = Oh my sweet goodness

This gave me some trouble in the beginning, bur I loved the ending. Oh I am so excited for some of the future chapters, they are going to be SO good! Let me know what you think!

Chocobocolina :3