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.

20. Chapter 20

Chapter Twenty

Something Wicked This Way Comes

A/N: To all the readers that have stayed and waited, I sincerely love y'all!

I am so sorry it's taken me this long. These last few months since I've last updated…I don't even know how to describe. I've been dealing and struggling with my mental health, which has gotten worse. I'm trying to write as much as I can and worked on this chapter whenever I had the writers block went away, but my lack of motivation didn't help, which is a symptom from me being recently diagnosed with Bipolar II. I'm working hard every day and have put in a lot of effort to get this chapter done and look, I did!

I hope there's no hate for taking this long.

Disclaimer: I only own Aurora and any other OC's. Remember, I will occasionally use quotes from both the books or movie, depending on the scene; I do not own direct quotes or phrases.

~ oOo ~

"I still can't believe you would do such a thing."

"You're still on about that? Come on Severus, I did what was right."

"No…You did what you thought was right; you allowed the infamous three to break the rules once again so they could do what they want."

Placing his usual morning cup of coffee before him upon the breakfast table, Aurora bent down and kissed his stubble cheek. Chuckling, she shook her head, grabbed their plates of toast, eggs and sausage as she took her seat, joining him with fork in hand. "Yes, I love you too, Severus."

"Don't think you can change the subject - "

"Just open." Having sliced through his sausage, Aurora leaned across the table, her fork holding a section of his food on the end, waiting for him to take the first bite of their morning meal. Groaning while forcing his lips not to smirk, the male leaned forward, lips slithering the meat from the metal contraption onto his tongue, obeying the witch as he chewed and swallowed.

"Your breakfast is delicious as always, love."

"I am well aware, but thank you as always," the woman grinned, consuming her peppered eggs.

Severus sneered with a roll of his darkened eyes. "This conversation isn't over."

"Nor has it been all summer, sweetie. What else are you wanting me to say? Yes, I helped Harry, Ron and Hermione with their Polyjuice Potion; yes I helped Hermione search for information on the Chamber of Secrets. Would you rather they'd done any of that on their own? They would've most likely have stolen ingredients from your storage in order to complete their potion; that wouldn't have settled with you, so I provided what they needed from my collection. We've been through all this."

"Yes we have, but…"

"Your but indicates you simply being upset because I didn't tell you anything." Sighing, she dropped her utensils, laying her hand over Severus' across the table. "I'm sorry," she mumbled sincerely. "We both know last year was terrifying for multiple reasons and all they wanted to do was help."

"You always have to help."

"That's who I am; you've know that from the beginning." Swallowing her bite of toast, Aurora tousled her hair, understanding the man's state in being upset. "Look…I broke the rules to help the students, I get that. In the end, we saved the school and another student from certain death."

"And in the process, you ended up becoming petrified."

Standing, she nudged Severus' plate away while taking a seat on his lap. Wrapping her arms around his neck, the woman grabbed his chin, forcing the man's stare to focus on hers. "Is that what this is about? All because…I was petrified the last few weeks of the year?" Casting his head away from her hand, he hid away behind the length of black hair. Palm rubbing smooth circles across his cheek, Aurora pecked his skin. "I'm right here…" she whispered softly.

"You are now…but for those weeks, I didn't know if you would come back."

Dropping her lips to his, their kiss was light and soft. Cheeks turning pink, Aurora grinned, rubbing the tip of her nose against his, causing the man to roll his eyes, though the curve of his mouth turned upward. "These last few months have been difficult for us, and yet, here we are. Unless a big, scary monster comes to drag me away, I'm not going anywhere - ah! No, no." Finger pressing against the opening of Severus' lips, the witch shook her head with a grin. "Despite what you may think, I will not leave you, Severus; I am here to stay."

Releasing a heavy breath, Severus' shoulders relaxed. Holding the woman closer, he kissed her temple. Having reminded himself all summer of the promise they made the night she was released from petrification. He needed to know Aurora was here, that she would always remain by his side. "Say it again…say those three words, please."

Taking the wizard's face in her small, gentle hands, Aurora cradled his cheeks, lovingly staring into his eyes, noticing the vulnerability as it pierced straight through her heart. This brave soul staring straight back at her, she knew this man could love so deeply. With lips falling down to his ear, she tenderly whispered, "I love you, Severus."

Grunting, the man easily lifted Aurora over his lap, one leg on each side, her heated womanhood trapping his hardening bulge between their center. "I'll never tire of those words, Aurora." Finger trailing her chin, Severus made quick work of her night shirt, which was really just one of his neglected t-shirts Tossed the material over her head, the wizard then mumbled a wordless spell, causing her lace underwear to vanish from her body, appearing upon the tile floor beneath the chair.

"Why must you always have the upper hand, my love?" Pressing her chest into this cloth covered pectorals, the witch moaned, face etched in lustful wonder. All summer, the couple had been spent renovating Spinner's End to construct it as their home, not the home he was raised in with his parents. After the fallout and ending of their relationship at the start of the year, the two were now spending their time binding and relaxing as much as they could. Mostly, the lovers had been rekindling physically through endless sexual escapades; a quickie on the counter, making out on the couch, passionate sex in bed several times before finally falling asleep.

Every inch of the house had been christened by their naked bodies.

"Why must you make it so easy?" Severus countered. Eyebrow raised, mimicking the way the man stared at her sometimes, she tilted her head and - POOF! - his clothing thus disappeared, leaving him in naught but the skin he bore. A lift of his lip had the man exhale a laugh, his hands taking hold of Aurora's waist. Between them. His erection stood proud and strong, waiting patiently to be joined with his woman once more. Easily lifting the woman over his lap, he sunk her lips onto his cock, easily sliding into her heated depths, both groaning as they stared lovingly at each other.

"Mmm, fuck Sev…" Tossing her head back, Aurora soaked in the moment, the familiar sensation she'd experienced all summer.

"Aurora…" he mumbled. Slowly picking up the pace, his grip on her waist tightened as she pushed forward and backward, seeking the pleasure building inside.

"Sev…" She moaned, seeking his eyes, those dark, obsidian eyes she adored and loved.

Grasping the back of her neck, he brought their lips close, but barely touching. He knew she was close, and her orgasming on him was always the finisher he needed to spill his seed deep inside. Grunting, Severus exerted more stamina, lifted his hips from the creaking wood, lifting the woman into the air as their skin slapped into the other. Her gasps and silent screams echoed, all the pleasure consuming her body focusing on the single pearl located right between her lips.

Sucking on his thumb for extra saliva, Severus dropped the appendage towards her clit, Aurora growling when he rolled her pearl around, eliciting all the beautiful sounds from her dirty mouth. "Fuck," she growled, dropped her head into his neck.

Juices leaking down Severus' thighs, the man cared not, for he had one goal in mind; and he knew he was close in reaching it. Abruptly standing, Aurora cried out as she tightly wrapped her legs around his back, though his hands underneath her bottom wouldn't allow her to fall. Placing her on the counter, the male continued his movement, thrusting his hips, the movement slick with ease as Aurora was dripping with her natural desire.

"That's it love," he uttered, one hand holding the counter as the other gripped the back of her neck.

"S-Sev, I'm…!" Clawing at his back, Aurora flushed her body into his. Unable to finish, an orgasm ripped through her body, forcing the woman to cling tightly onto Severus as she cried out, spasming uncontrollably.

Gritting his teeth, Severus could no longer hold back. Sexual activity with Aurora was limitless for the male, his refractory period being only a few minutes before his erection is able to plunge back inside is woman and pleasure her again and again. As for right then and there, her moans, claw marks upon his back, and the tightening of her soaking nether region were just what he needed to cast him off to yet another blissful orgasmic adventure. And so, as his forehead fell onto his shoulder, Severus salted his movements with one last thrust, their bodies flushed together as one as they heaved their breathing, cheeks pink with passion as Aurora linked their lips together as one.

- A few hours later -

"Can you believe there's only two weeks before the new year starts?"

Preparing for the new term, the witch spoke through their silence, having only been working for an hour since their spectacle in the kitchen that morning. Having refreshed themselves by showering, Aurora and Severus were now sitting in their respected chairs, each glancing over books and pieces of parchment. Glancing up from his text, the Potions Master shook his head, casting casting back to the words on the pages on his lap.

"Considering this summer has passed by faster than I would have like, no, I cannot."

"Hmm," Aurora moaned, scratching her chin. "I don't think I'm ready, either." Pausing for a moment, she watched Severus as he annotated on his parchment in the side table, his attention all the while fixated on the textbook. "Say…usually you leave for school around this time to prepare your classroom for term. Why haven't we discussed about leaving for school yet?"

Quill stopping mid-stroke, Severus dropped the utensil and lifted his head, eyes meeting hers slowly. "Are you saying you're wanting to head back to work already?"

"Mm, no, not exactly."

Sighing, Severus gripped his nose, reaching to grasp the quill before dropping his hand onto the chairs armrest. "Aurora…I'm not ready to leave just yet." Blinking, the man hid his face behind the mass of long, black hair. Mouth curving upward, Aurora bit her lip, refraining from giggling out loud. In front of her, this was the man's infamous tactic in hiding whenever embarrassment covered his cheeks; this was one such moment. "I…finally have a place to call home during the summer, and I want to enjoy as much time with you in it as I can."

Chuckling caught in her throat, Aurora's facade froze, eyes blinking, soaking in the man's words. "Aww, Severus…" Reaching across their armchairs, she squeezed his hand, the man's obsidian eye lifted to find hers through his curtain of hair. "You are a sweet, sweet man, Sev." Wiping a stray tear from her the corner of her eye, both witch and wizard suddenly tilted their heads back towards the kitchen.

SQUEE!

"Ah!" Sniffling, Aurora deposited her papers off to the side, making her way into the kitchen. "And that would be Sapphire with the post. I've been wondering if we would receive anything today."

Watching the woman as she entered the kitchen, Severus continued reading the textbook in his lap, marking his parchment, preparing and editing notes for the upcoming term. As they would not be settling into the castle closer until the new year would begin, the Potions Master wanted all his preparations to be complete before their departure. Ears lifting upon noticing Sapphire entering the house, the man shook his head at the way Aurora spoke to the tiny dragon.

"Such a good girl you are!" Aurora cooed, taking the post out of the dragon's beak. "Bringing us the mail; I think someone deserves a treat. What do you think, Sapphire?"

SQUEE!

"I agree, sweetie!" Chuckling in his throat, Severus couldn't resist in grabbing his nose. The two were quite a pair, knowing Aurora saved the tiny dragon from certain death as it most likely had a birth defect. Even he, the Professor students labeled 'the Bat of the Dungeons' had to admit their relationship was inseparable. It was, at times, annoying, but even he had to admit, the relationship the two shared was, if anything, appealing; Severus wouldn't expect anything less from Aurora.

In the kitchen, Aurora jingled Sapphire's box of treats, releasing a few onto the counter.

MEOW!

"Oh goodness…" the man mumbled. Noticing as Merlin pounced from his cushion beside the fireplace, Severus watched the cat's tail swing back and forth as it moved into the kitchen, expecting its own sweets as well. "I think you've made someone jealous."

"Did I? Well that's no good!" Replacing one packages of treats for another, the witch scratched the cat's black fur, who jumped next to Sapphire, patiently waiting as he meowed. Sniffing the reddish-brown colored squared treats, the cat meowed again, knowing the squares were not the typical sweets he would devour. "My precious Merlin, I have not forgotten about you." Different shapes in brown colored varieties fell upon the counter, the feline instantly attacking them with sharp teeth. Smiling, Aurora gently lathered the creatures with caresses before grabbing the post and returning to her seat by the fire.

"Let's see…" she mumbled, stifling through the papers.

Dipping his quill in ink, Severus lifted an eye to Aurora, whose face seemed to be scanning over a letter. "Shall I dare ask what we received?"

"Eh, the Daily Prophet, I got something from Rose, you got something from the apothecary regarding your order…and…oh boy, it seems we received something from Albus."

Parchment falling onto his lap, Severus blinked, dipping his quill back into the ink pot and leaving it there. "He owled us this close to term? Interesting…and what is he requesting of us, exactly?"

"You don't know if he's requesting anything of us." And yet, the man merely narrowed his eyes, causing the witch to roll hers. "Alright, fine, I'll shut up." Breaking the elegant wax seal, Aurora stared at the fancy handwriting belonging to the Headmaster, still amazed how he possessed such calligraphy. "Severus Snape and Aurora Warrington. I apologize as this is last minute, but I wanted to inform you that I will be planning a visit on Wednesday, August the Eighteenth, at three o'clock in the afternoon. There is a matter I must discuss with the both of you regarding the Defense Against the Dark Arts position, which, luckily, has been filled."

Glancing up at the clock on the far wall, then back down to the letter, Aurora allowed her head to fall against the palm of her hand. "Does the man purposely allow these things to happen? Three o'clock is only half an hour away!"

Rubbing his temple, the Potions Master sighed in response. "This is Albus we're talking about."

"Ah - ! B-But…! Mmm, yeah, I don't know why I'm surprised." Folding the letter, she placed in on the side table. Glancing between the clock and her noted pieces of parchment, not able to decide if she wanted to continue preparing her lecture notes or just wait until Albus' arrival. "Bloody hell. I think I'll make some tea. Would you like a cup?"

"Yes, thank you," he muttered, without even glancing upward.

Stepping back into the kitchen, Aurora waved her hand at the tea kettle, whisking it over to the sink for it to be filled with water as she used her other hand to ignite the stove. Kettle set in place and mugs on the counter, she then searched through their upgraded cabinets for which brand of tea they should consume. Cursing upon realization the box might be out of her reach, she stood on the tips of her toes, pushing her height to the limit; and yet, her fingers barely grazed the box, pushing it further back into the shelf.

"Asking for help is always a possibility, Aurora." Snaking his arm around her waist, Severus flushed her back against his chest, his hand reaching past hers in height as he easily was able to grasp the tea bags and place them on the counter. "Or…you could always use magic like the rest of us."

Sticking her tongue out, she flung her brunette hair over a shoulder. "That is true, I could ask for help. And when I need it, you'll be the first person I ask." Stepping over to the kettle just as it blew its thunderous whistle, Aurora poured the steaming water into the two cups, dipping the tea bags into each, allowing the contents to soak to how she and Severus preferred.

Speaking of which.

"I know you well enough, Aurora." Breathing into her ear, the man seethed to leave her alone, his arms wrapped around her stomach, pulling her close against his body. Shivering against the man, the witch cocked her head, peeking backwards just enough to see him just out of the corner of her eye. "You may not ask for help, but I know when you want it."

"Ohh, really now."

"Really."

"Then tell me…" she breathed, head falling backwards onto his shoulder, fingers clenching into the fabric on his arms. Seizing the material of his frock, she failed miserably in pulling his damned hands upwards, though the man refused as he slipped his index finger back and forth over the flimsy material of her thin sweats. Gliding easily over the front where her slit began just underneath the flimsy material, Aurora huffed, cheeks instantly red. "W-What makes you think I'm needing help this instant…?"

Bitting the shell of her ear, the wizard merely continued his actions. "My mistake," he whispered, nudging her bottom with his hardened erection. "It looks like I'm the one who needs some help."

"Good lord," the witch mumbled, thinking of their excursions just that morning at the breakfast table just mere feet behind them. Briskly turning in his arms, she landed her lips on his for a quick kiss. "You're an insatiable man, you know that, Severus?"

"Coming from the insatiable woman by my side; you're just as guilty."

Pink coating her cheeks, Aurora glanced away. "I - I'm not as bad as you, Sev."

Eyebrow raised instantly, the wizard lifted the woman onto the counter by her hips, earning a squeal in return. "Let's see here…You're the one who bought me crotchless panties for my birthday…I made a quick stop to the apothecary for some ingredients and come home to find you sprawled naked on my potions table…and let's not forget the time I was woken up to that tongue of yours sucking me off." Eyeing her legs quenching together left the man smirking with triumph. Taking hold of her knees, Severus kissed along her jawline. "My Aurora…just as perverted as I."

"Hmph. This, coming from the man who gets an erection from pulling tea bags down from the cupboard."

"Love," Severus kissed her forehead. "I heard you grunting and thought you might need some help. This," he glanced down at the bulge still in his pants. "Is from watching your backside jiggle trying to get the bloody tea down yourself."

Rolling her eyes, Aurora pulled the man close. "Whatever," she scoffed, all the while smiling. Leaning forward, her lips brushed against his, when an insistent knocking protruded from the outer room, causing their heads to turn towards the location of the front door. Heaving a sigh, Aurora grumbled. "Ugh, Albus sure does have a way of showing up on time and ruining moments."

"Then tell him to send an earlier warning next time." Leaving the kitchen, Severus headed towards the front, Aurora stirring their mugs of tea, her ears listening as her wizard greeted the Headmaster into their home. Warm mugs in hand, she stepped into their living room and smiled, nodding towards Albus as she handed Severus his drink.

Hugging the Headmaster, she smiled. "It's only been a few weeks, but it's always good to see you, Albus."

"And you, Aurora. I take it there hasn't been any side affects from the petrification?" The never-aging Headmaster clasped his hands together, eyes switching between the younger witch and wizard as they stood close together near the fireplace.

"None whatsoever. It's been an easygoing summer. We've been fixing the house and enjoying the time we have before school begins." Glancing up at Severus just as he drank some of his tea, the man nodding in agreement, not sure what else to add. "Oh, where are my manners! Albus, would you like some tea? I just put a pot on the stove."

"How thoughtful my dear, but this shouldn't take long." Maneuvering around the small living room, that had also been converted into their personal library, Albus rested a hand on the back of one of the chairs. "As my letter stated, I have news regarding the fulfillment for the Defense Against the Dark Arts position. I have contacted numerous applicants and have chosen someone both of you are acquainted with: Remus Lupin."

Hastily swallowing her tea, Aurora was overjoyed to hear the news; Severus, on the other hand, nearly spit out his drink, coughing away any liquid having seeped down his throat. Taking a moment to clear his irritation, the man narrowed his vision, placing the mug upon the mantle and crossed his arms. "Excuse me…what?"

"Remus Lupin has filled the Defense teacher position for the new term," Albus reiterated, all the while the same smirk held across his face. Trailing a hand through his beard, he eyed the two of them carefully, noticing how one seemed intrigued while the other was definitely struggling with the news.

"You can't be serious, Albus."

"He is knowledgable on the subject, Severus, and has proven as much when we met to discuss the position."

"You are forgetting one important fact, Albus!" Clenching his fist, Severus resumed his seat. Crossing his legs, the wizard groaned as Aurora watched, knowing the man's concerns, both those he was about to voice, and the ones he were to keep secret. "The man's a werewolf. And you're wanting him to bloody teach?!"

With a shake of his head and a light chuckle, Albus moved around the small living room, walking corner to corner, still rubbing the length of his greying beard. "Again, I am very well aware. Thus for the sudden visit, as I have a favor for you and Aurora." Glancing up at the witch, Severus blinked, moving his obsidian eyes to the conniving eyes of the Headmaster. "During the year, I would request for the both of you to create the Wolfsbane Potion for Remus every month before the full moon."

Both fell silent.

Scratching her neck, Aurora sighed before mentally considering the ingredients and process that went into the making of the potion itself. Clasping her hands together, she placed them against her mouth, lips narrowed into a thin line. "Albus…do you know what you're even asking? Wolfsbane Potion….the user must consume the potion everyday for one week before the full moon. That's seven potions every month. Are you aware the cost of the ingredients, Wolfsbane alone?"

Albus nodded to her statement. "I am. Whatever ingredients are needed will be paid for. We are just needing the potion to be concocted."

Dropping his head into his hand, Severus opened his mouth to speak. "Albus did you…did you offer the position to Lupin because there would be limitless supply of Wolfsbane Potion throughout the year?"

Staring at the male Professor over the rims of his crescent moon glasses, the Headmaster smirked. "Hm, I can't say."

Growling, Severus, grabbed his nose. Glancing back up at Aurora, she rolled her eyes. "Bloody hell, Albus. Everything else we have to do all year, now this?!"

"I mean…" Shrugging his shoulders, Albus waved his hands around. "There's an open position, we needed a teacher who needs a simple potion…"

"Simple?!" Severus roared, standing to his feet.

Stepping towards the male's chair, Aurora grasped one of the books he was taking notes from and flipped through the pages, flicking her fingers one-by-one. Smiling once landing on the page dedicated to the Wolfsbane Potion, the woman snapped her eyes towards the elder wizard. "Here, take a glimpse. This explains the simple potion we would have to make seven times a month for the next year."

Eyes scanning the ingredients and instructions, the Headmaster gave a curt nod. "Ah, I see. My apologies you two. This potion is a bit more complicated than I assumed."

"Thank you," Aurora mumbled, closing the book and handing it back to Severus, who, all the while, couldn't refrain himself from mumbling how Albus realized the potion was a bit more complicated than he perceived.

"Then, if you do this for me, what can I do you for in exchange?"

Shrugging her shoulders, Aurora wasn't sure. Severus, on the other hand turned sharply, though his calm demeanor simply said, "A favor, whenever I want, and whatever, I want."

"I'm certain that can be arranged my boy." Clasping his hands once more, Albus smiled. "Good! That went better than I imagined. So, we are in agreement you two will contact Remus once school is in session regarding the potion?" Both opened their mouth and answered at the same time.

"Aurora will." / "Severus will."

The witch looked down as the wizard glanced up.

Chuckling, the Headmaster stared at the two. "Goodness, who'd imagined the two of you would wind up together?" Their stare turned to the elder man. "I can't believe how cute the two of you are!" Groaning, Severus stood and reached for his mug, heading into the kitchen to refill his tea, grabbing Aurora's along the way. "My dear, there is another favor, just for you."

Eyebrows raising, the woman cocked her head. "After having to concoct a nasty potion throughout the year? Whatever could it be?" she smiled.

"This one actually comes from Remus himself."

"O-Oh?"

"Remus has requested to take the train the same day when the students arrive, and has asked if you would ride with him."

Eyebrow raised, she crossed her arms. "Why…?"

"Absolutely not."

Both heads turning towards the entrance to the kitchen, they were met with Severus and two steamings cups of tea in his hands. Shaking her head, Aurora grabbed her mug, gingerly sipping the hot liquid as Severus resumed his stance by the fireplace. "My boy…" Albus said.

"There is no need for her to be with Lupin, Albus. Whatever he needs, the man can get the moment he arrives at Hogwarts. Besides, the man can apparate, can he not?"

Chuckling, Albus nodded. "Why yes he can. But the man wanted to reminiscence and ride the train, just as the three of you had done when you were at school."

"Tch, well I don't see the point when he can just talk to her - "

"Wait." Wizards turning to see Aurora grinning ear to ear, wheels turning in her head upon connecting the dots. "You mean you to say…" Turning towards both men, Albus grinned as Severus rolled his eyes, shaking his head as the female glowed with happiness. "Even though I'm no longer a student…I could ride the Hogwarts Express too?!"

Roaring with laughter, the Headmaster grasped his fully belly, hovering back and forth as his guffawing roared throughout the house that was near empty throughout the entire year. "Oh my dear, yes! As staff, you could ride the train anytime!"

Jumping with joy, Aurora squealed. "Oh goodie! Yay! Yay! Yay!" Twirling in circles, the woman swept herself into the kitchen in search of Sapphire, her voice echoing into the living room, already spreading the news that she would once again get to ride the train.

Correcting the placement of his half-moon glasses, Albus peered over at Severus, the man merely sipping away at his steaming cup of tea. "Goodness, it seems I have my answer then."

A roll of his eyes and a lopsided grin, Severus merely shook his head. "I've been overruled."

"Trust me, dear Severus," Albus chuckled, his hand landed on the male Professor's shoulder, squeezing it with a fatherly tenderness. "There will be times you will be overruled quite often."

"I have no doubt."

And from the next room, they could hear the female speak to her feline. "Merlin, did you hear?! I get to ride the train!"

MEOW!

"Oh goodness," Severus muttered, rubbing his neck. All the while, the Headmaster watched as Aurora bounced back from the kitchen, grasping her midnight colored fur ball against her chest, loving the black ball that loved to shed upon all their furniture. The redness in her cheeks confirmed she could not wait for the next few weeks to come.

"Excited, my dear?" Albus questioned.

"Excited doesn't cover what I'm feeling!"

"Then I am glad, though I must be off. There are still some matters that must be attended to before the new year must begin."

"O-Oh…?" Aurora dropped Merlin to the floor, who scampered to his preferred pillow. "Are you sure you wouldn't like a cup to drink or something before you leave?"

"No, I have intruded long enough. I'm aware my letter didn't provide enough warning of my arrival, but this was an important matter that needed to be discussed, so please pardon my intrusion."

"Albus, you know you're always welcome here," Aurora reached forward, gently wrapping the Headmaster in a soft hug.

HIs blue eyes glistened. "You have always been too nice, my dear."

"So I've been told," she muttered, glancing at the man behind her whose arms were crossed. "Still, that's how I was raised."

"You've told me much of your mother, Aurora. I truly wish I could've met her."

"She was an amazing woman; the two of you would've gotten along great, for sure." Walking the man to the door, Severus opened the aged wood as the elder Wizard stepped outside when he suddenly stopped, grasping a slip of parchment from inside his robes.

"Ah! There is something I did forget. Here, this is for you. This is where Remus is currently staying; please send notice to him that you will be traveling with him on the train. He wanted to correspond with you to plan where to meet on the first."

"Oh! Smart thinking!" Taking the paper from his hands, she held it close, waiting until she was inside to glance at the address. "Thank you Albus, I will send Sapphire right away." A curt nod and a swirl of smoke, their Headmaster was gone, having apparated back to Hogwarts, leaving the two standing in the doorway as they glanced at each other.

Groaning, Severus closed the door as they retreated back towards the living room, where Aurora reclaimed her seat and the male stood in the doorway, arms still crossed. "As expected, any sudden visit from Albus is exhausting."

"Were you expecting anything less? To release such news upon our shoulders though," she muttered, digging through her papers for a small bit of parchment. Watching the woman with careful eyes, Severus reflected through the earlier conversation, how Remus specifically requested Aurora to meet him at the station and to be with him the entire train. What for? the man wondered. What could he possible want to discuss with her then that couldn't wait until he arrives at the school?

Huffing, the man spoke his mind. "Answer me this: why must you respond to Lupin's request?"

Fingers halting with quill in hand, Aurora snapped her head towards Severus, not quite comprehending his question. For as long as she knew the man, she'd known his background, his history with Remus and his friends while at Hogwarts and the disdain he still held. But try as may be, would he really push that disdain onto her? It would seem so, she thought. "Severus…" Rubbing her temple, Aurora set the parchment aside then stood. Uncrossing the man's arms, she placed them around her waist as she wrapped her around his neck. "Listen," she said softly. "You not wanting me to be alone with Remus? I get it - really, I do. But out of all the Marauders, Remus was the only one who was friendly and nice to me; sadly, we lost contact a few years ago. So please, please…"

Tilting his chin up with a finger, Severus narrowed his lips as she widened her gaze, knowing all to well what he was thinking. "Are you wanting me to forget all that they did?" he seethed. "Lupin may not have partaken directly like Black or Potter, but he didn't stop them either!"

Forehead dropping to his chest, Aurora gently knocked her head into his torso. "Bloody hell, Sev," the woman mumbled. Watching the woman from above, Severus bit his lip. Her actions were astounding, even more so when she unexpectedly pushed herself away and curled back into her chair. "Forget it. I'm still going to see him whether you approve or not."

Astonished by her words, Severus watched as she began her later towards the man who would be the new Dark Arts Professor at school. Eyeing the way her fingers moved in a perfected manner entranced the male, the anger he held slowly faded away. All he saw, all he remembered were her beautiful blue eyes and the way she glanced upward at him, hoping he would understand her reasoning. In turn, Severus was upset; deep inside the black heart Aurora was melting, he knew he had no right to be troubled. Just thinking of the woman spending time with someone who caused him pain from the past drove him completely mad.

Sighing in defeat because Severus knew he was in the wrong, he stepped towards the woman who held his blackened heart in her hands. As her fingers stopped when she noticed his feet, he placed the quill and parchment off to the side, kneeling onto the ground, peering upwards at the woman whose beauty could not be measured. And he obviously wasn't just looking at the outside.

Taking hold of her hands, Severus Snape sighed for the umpteenth time that day. "Aurora…I…I'm sorry." Apologizing had never been his strongest attribute, particularly when it came to Aurora; with her, the task was both effortless and distressing, as he found himself having to apologize to her more than he had to anyone else in his entire life. Swiping his thumb against the back of her hand, he sensed the tension leaving her body as his eyes swiveled up to hers. "Listen, I…I'm a git, we - I - know this. Hearing Albus say that Lupin wants to meet with you stirred something in me and, well…"

"You didn't like it," she finished for him.

"No, not one bit."

"Why?"

"Because you're mine," he found himself blurting, cursing the way a blush formed upon his cheekbones. "And Lupin will - "

"Remus…" she corrected to state her point. "…doesn't stand a chance, though I doubt that's why he even wants to meet me." Cradling his cheek, Aurora leaned closer. "Severus, what's going on?"

Silence fell across the room, Severus needing a moment to collect his thoughts. Such moments as this when confronted with his inner emotions, the man's present self would collide with his past. Should he withdraw such emotions from his heart and shield himself for protection, or swallow his inner fear and explain the 'why' behind his words. If it would be anyone else, the man would have closed himself off and walked away. Aurora was not another person; she was the woman, his woman, who could set him straight and see all that he hid underneath the dark exterior everyone else only noticed.

"Aurora…" Fingers cupping around her ears, Severus hovered his hands, desiring to hold her tight as he dropped towards the base of her neck. The words were there, lodged between his brain and throat, his voice refusing to speak that which usually was locked away deep inside his heart. "I just got you back," he voiced quickly, quietly, not sure if she could even hear him. "I'm afraid…that I'll lose you again."

Inching her way forward, she connected their lips; the kiss was quick but still zapped their lips with electricity. "I love you, Severus Tobias Snape. We've most definitely had our ups and downs; I mean, it took us ten years, but look where we are now?"

"Ten years of suffering before we…!"

Rolling her eyes, Aurora nudged Severus backwards to kneel as well; folded hands placed in their lap, the two simply watched each other. Severus, the master of masking his emotions and Aurora, the master of knowing the man in front of her. "Granted, yes, we both suffered; we missed each other greatly, though here we stand. Severus, I'm not going anywhere, nor do I plan to anytime soon. So, we can either view our situation as a glass half empty, or half full."

"But, Lupin…"

Sighing, Aurora pinched the male's cheek, causing him to scowl, narrowing his eyes in frustration. "Alright, here's the deal you blockhead. I am well aware of what Remus and his friends did to you while we were in school, yet I can only imagine what they did before I arrived. Though remember this, Severus: I will never forget." Cupping his face, Aurora squeezed her hands. "I will never forget the torment they cast upon you. But that was when we were students, we are now adults. You and Remus haven't seen each other since graduation and it's been several years since he and I last spoke. I love you with every ounce of warmth my body contains; whatever you're thinking, feeling, it won't happen between me and Remus. You are my man, you got that? I want you and only you. So please, for both our sakes…unless something transpires, let the past rest and allow yourself to move forward. For me?" Angling her head to the side, she waited for the man to answer.

Hands not allowing his head to move, Severus cast his eyes away instead. Knowing she was right, once again, he succumbed to her wish. In the end, he wanted to make her smile; Aurora's happiness was all that mattered to me. "I will…do the best I can."

"You promise?" Aurora questioned sternly, knowing all to well the man was stubborn and would fail the moment he spotted Remus at Hogwarts.

"For you? Yes, I promise. Potter and his friends just…took away much from me, and…I won't lose what I've wanted most, and what I finally have: you."

~ oOo ~

Drowned by the endless lengths of parchment in preparation for the new year, Aurora and Severus managed to survive the remaining weeks in August. And then September first appeared on the calendar. Having traveled to Hogwarts several days prior, the Professors were settled into Severus' chambers; having rekindled their relationship and spent the summer together, they wanted to remain side-by-side. On the morning of the first, Aurora consumed her breakfast with Severus, happily munching away on her toast, occasionally checking the time.

"When did you agree to meet Lupin?" Sipping his coffee across the table, the man raised his eyes to see Aurora petting Sapphire under the chin, who had curled around her neck.

"Nine at The Leaky Cauldron; then we plan on heading to the train early before the rush of students." Swallowing the last bites on her plate, Aurora poked the male's hand with the end of her fork. "Will you be working while I'm gone?"

He nodded. "I plan to finish categorizing the ingredients we need for the Wolfsbane Potion."

"Goodness," the woman sighed. "We need to start that soon, the full moon will be here before we know it." Standing, she kissed Severus' cheek, then grabbed her cloak from the hook behind the portrait, "Don't push yourself to finish, I'll help after the feast. Now don't get into trouble until I return, alright?"

Smirking, the Potions Master merely cocked his head, glancing back. "Shouldn't I be telling you that?"

I have no idea what you're talking about." Cheekily, she kissed his lips, murmuring she would see him right before the feast, then exited their chambers. Heading towards the appropriate location outside the school, feeling the inward vacuum, much like a black hole, suck her from within until she disappeared from the school grounds. Mere seconds later, her form appeared within the entrance unit the wizard pub, the bartender acknowledging her with a nod. Following suit, Aurora scanned the crowd, parents and children rushing towards Diagon Alley to purchase any last minute items before having to board the train at eleven.

Eyes moving, Aurora spotted the scruffy head of the male she instantly recognized. Heading towards the corner, she tapped on the gentleman's shoulder, whose head turned, softening upon seeing a face he'd lost contact with.

"Aurora."

"Remus," she drew the man into a hug as he stood. Taking in the sight of the man, on of the few who had been her friends when they were students, he hadn't changed in the years since they'd last seen each other. "It really has been too long."

"It has, which is why I wanted to see you before the feast tonight."

Taking their seats at the table, Remus ordered a butterbeer when a waitress asked if they would like anything to drink while Aurora only wanted water. "That's what I didn't understand when Albus said you wanted to meet me. Why not just wait until after we were at Hogwarts?"

"Four or five years." Quirking an eyebrow, Aurora didn't understand. Holding up a finger as the waitress dropped off their drinks, the scared man held his mug loosely, drinking his butterbeer here and there. "We don't have a lot of time and I haven't heard from you in awhile. I wanted to have this discussion before we entered the school."

"Umm…" Scratching her head, she curled her hair off of one shoulder, preparing for an awkward and unexpected conversation. "Alright then, what'd you wanna discuss?"

"You, actually."

"M-Me?" Eye enlarging, Aurora was bewildered. "What about me? Other than being hired to teach, nothing's changed. Well…I mean, my mother died almost two years ago and now I'm teaching at Hogwarts."

"Aurora…I'm so sorry to hear that…" Taking her hand in his, Remus squeezed. Aurora could sense the burning prickling her eyes; breathing quickly, she tapped the back of his hand and grasped her own glass, consuming most of the contents.

"I appreciate your condolences, but I'm alright, she's in a better place, thankfully."

"Glad to hear my dear." Sipping his butterbeer, Remus glanced around the room, the loudness increasing as more adults entered, the open space diminishing. He was avoiding the topic he clearly wanted to discuss, Aurora could tell. She knew he was saddened to hear the news regarding her mother, though now he was probably unsure how to direct the conversation back towards the original topic. Smirking, she snapped her fingers to gain his attention over the nose, his green eyes watching her.

"Remus, there's a reason you asked to meet. You said you wanted to talk about me, so what is it you wanted to know?"

Sighing deeply, the man folded his hands after setting his drink aside. "Aurora, I wanted to see how you're faring being back at Hogwarts."

"How I'm faring…?" Biting her lip, the woman had to think. Her first year was special and last year, well…Let's just say that ending a relationship the way she and Severus had, being petrified by an ancient basilisk for several weeks and then rekindling the same relationship led to a very interesting second year. "It's been an eventual two years, I'm hoping my third won't be any different. It keeps my duties as a professor exciting, to say the least."

Shaking his head, Remus didn't receive the answer he was expecting. "I'll be more specific. How're things between you and Severus? Last we owled, you mentioned how you two hadn't spoken since the incident at your graduation."

One hand covering her mouth as the other landed over her heart, Aurora teared up. "Remus," her voice nearly audible. "You're such a sweetheart, that hasn't changed at all! But there is something you must know before we leave for the train."

His eyebrow raised, having the sense he knew what it could be. "Don't tell me…"

Nodding, the woman lifted her pendant necklace, smiling all the while; opening the contraption, she showed the small, metal book to Remus, who leaned across the table to see the inside where it said I Love You. "You see, it was awkward for some time, but since I teach a Medicinal Potions course, our paths cross and we were bumping heads a lot. We…we connected again and…well, you see…things started happening."

His green eyes lifted up from the pendant to her blue orbs, noticing all the while the shimmer hers illuminated. "Ahh, I-I see, the two of you are now…together?"

Smiling, Aurora pulled the pendant back and closed it, allowing it to fall so it nestled safely within the valley of her breasts. "Yes, we are. Some days I…cannot fathom that it's true. Severus and I are in a relationship. Can you believe that?"

And so, Remus Lupin nodded his head yes with a glorious smile, all the while his voice jokingly said, "No, I cannot," as he laughed, quickly earning a soft kick to his knee from underneath the table. Rubbing the spot she hit, the new professor still had to ask, "Still, are things good between you two? I'm not expecting to be told everything…I just want to make sure he doesn't hurt you the way he did when you graduated."

Lips curling softly, Aurora reached forward and grasped his hand. "I will admit, we had some misunderstandings earlier this year, and yet, we're stronger than ever."

"Are you happy?" Remus quickly asked, yet Aurora had her answer ready on the tip of her tongue.

"I've never been happier. We've talked about the past and though we're still working through something things, I love that man." Giggling, the woman couldn't resist in blushing.

Grabbing his drink, Remus drained the rest of his butterbeer, heart content in learning one of his oldest friends was in a joyful place in her life. "As long as you are happy, Aurora. You're the only friend I have left."

~ oOo ~

Having left The Leaky Cauldron, Remus and Aurora entered the empty Hogwarts Express, found a suitable cabin and claimed it as their own. Seated beside one another, they grew comfortable, not only having to wait until eleven o'clock when all students were aboard, but for the train to arrive at Hogsmeade. For the several hour wait until they reached the station, Aurora made sure to bring along her lecture notes for the following morning, ensuring she was ready first of the new year. Beside her, Remus glanced out towards the gloomy early afternoon, the gray clouds already rolling in symbolized a depressing weather forecast for the remainder of the day.

Out in the train hallway, students were walking back and forth, deciding which cabin they wanted to share, some with their friends, some who wanted to be alone. Aurora was curious if any students would sit alongside them for the ride; she wouldn't mind, of course.

"Aurora." Having remained silent since they boarded, Remus slowly rotated his head. "There is…one more question that's been on my mind."

"Yes?" Closing her notes, she turned towards her friend. "What's wrong?"

"Harry Potter; I know he's a student at Hogwarts." Playing with the end of his fingers, the werewolf of a man didn't know where to look now. Switching from the window, to his friend, across the cabin; he fidgeted and twitched. "You've clearly seen him, these last two years. What's the boy like? Does he look like James? Like Lily?"

Instantly biting her lip, Aurora grasped the man's hand, refusing to let go. Remus had suffered enough in the last thirteen years. Losing all three of his best friends - two from murder and one to Azkaban - he only wanted to know about the boy he considered like a nephew, the child he was never able to see grow into a young man.

"Oh Remus…" she whispered. "Harry is such an honest boy. I…to put what he's like into words is difficult, you'll just have to wait and see to be honest, but…he is literally a miniature version of James."

"Good lord," Remus breathed.

"He's a smart young man, and - oh! You'll never believe this!" Sitting straighter, Aurora clapped her hands, knowing her next words would definitely put a smile on the man's face. "He's the Seeker for the Gryffindor team - and has been since First Year!"

"No!"

"Yes! Minerva said he's the youngest Seeker in a century! Can you believe that?"

That had done it. Grinning wildly, Remus rubbed his forehead, teeth shinning brightly, considering what he was just told. "Can you imagine how James must be feeling, wherever he's at?"

She said nothing.

Sighing, as he recognized what he said, Remus grabbed her shoulder. "I'm sorry…Forgive me, I…"

"You forget I didn't particularly like James."

"…I did," the male admitted shamefully.

"I get it," Aurora exhaled, playing with her hair. "He's your friend, though he bullied me as well; but, I guess…I should be grateful to him." Chuckling at her friends twisted face due to her words, she then said, "Because that's how you and I became friends. However," her voice dropped. "That stays between you and me. I doubt you'll ever discuss it with Severus, but don't ever mention to him that James used to bully me. I don't want him to learn how James treated me."

"If you wish," Remus nodded.

Knowing that trailed off topic, Aurora curled her lips upward. "Hey, back to what we were talking about. You'll have Harry in your class, so you'll see everything I've already stated. Trust me; he'll understand why you and his father were best friends."

Taking a moment to inhale her words, the new professor wrapped himself in his cloak, leaning into the corner of his seat. "I surely hope so, Aurora. My only regret after James and Lily's death is not being in Harry's life. I'm hoping…me accepting this position will make up for that."

And within a few minutes, he fell asleep, his cloak covering the entirety of his face.

Shaking her head at the man, Aurora returned to her notes, tuning the noise outside the cabin as the train filled with more students as the clock ticked closer to eleven. She was excited, with this being her third year teaching and she was curious to see what was in store to happen. Considering the last two years?

"What could possibly go wrong," she mumbled, though chuckling, marking her page as she edited her notes for the following morning.

Suddenly, the door opened to the cabin opened, voices from the outside filtering in as her head rose, interested to see if the students knew two adults were occupying the compartment. "Come on," she could hear a female speak - actually, it was Hermione! "Everywhere else is full. Oh!" As she stepped inside, the young witch realized it was her professor who was sitting inside the cabin. "Professor Warrington!"

"Professor!" Harry and Ron exclaimed.

"It's good to see you three. Sorry this is the last cabin you had to choose, I'm hitching a ride with him," Aurora pointed her thumb to the side towards Remus, still passed out regardless of the loud ruckus.

"Huh, who do ya think that is?" Ron questioned his friends as they all settled into their seats; he and Hermione sat opposite as Harry chose to sit beside Aurora.

"Professor R. J. Lupin," Hermione quoted, cuddling her cat close, settling in for the long ride.

Groaning, the red-haired male gawked at her, exasperated. "Do you know everything?" He then turned his attention to Harry, who only shrugged, not knowing why his best friend was still surprised at Hermione's knowledge. "How is it she knows everything."

Without missing a beat, Aurora pointed upward towards the luggage compartment above her head. "It's on his suitcase, Ronald."

Blushing, Ron grumbled, knowing he assumed when he clearly shouldn't have. Beside Aurora, Harry glanced over her shoulder at the sleeping figure. "Do you think he's really asleep?"

"Who? Remus?" Harry nodded. "Oh yeah, he'll be out till we reach Hogwarts."

"Why Harry?" Hermione questioned.

Knowing no one else would enter their compartment, seeing as how there were five individuals seated inside, Harry stood and firmly closed the door. "Because there's something I need to tell you two, but…" Glancing at his professor, he took his seat. "Professor Warrington…"

"Aurora," she corrected. Eyebrows raised on all three students, the witch stated, "I think we've had enough interaction that you can call me by my first name. Just make sure to do so when we're alone. Alright?"

"Sure. Anyways, A-Aurora," Harry stumbled, testing her first name. "I feel we can trust you, considering how you helped the three of us last year. Right, Ron, Hermione?" They nodded in unison.

Placing her notes to the side, she watched the male. "The sentiment is sweet, but what're you about to discuss? Is everything alright?"

"I mean…it's something Ron's dad told me when we were at The Leaky Cauldron before heading to the station, so…I'm not sure what to make of it."

And that's how the four spent the next hour or so, conversing over the details Harry provided. How Arthur Weasley mentioned to the boy how one Sirius Black escaped from Azkaban Prison just to seek Harry Potter in order to kill him, because he was, and still is, a die-hard servant to Lord Voldemort. And, apparently, Harry is she last obstacle of the Dark Lord having any chance of returning to power. However, as Aurora watched the three teenagers engaged in their own world, her opinion wanted here and there, she struggled, lip nearly bitten off as she and the sleeping professor beside her held yet another secret that would break the heart of The Boy Who Lived.

Sirius Black was the best friend of his father.

Supposedly, Sirius was the reason the Dark Lord discovered the prophecy about a boy born in July who would be his downfall, and concluded it was Lily and James' son. Those in close contact with Sirius and the Order of the Phoenix, believe the man betrayed his friends to the dark side, having turned long before they went into hiding. Now, Thirteen years later, it's hard to say what really happened in the wizard's mind; regardless, his best friends were murdered, he was sent to Azkaban, and Harry was left to pay for the price of his selfishness.

And yet, there was always something in the back of Aurora's mind considering the entire incident she didn't agree with, but could never place it into words…

"Let me get this straight…so you mean Sirius Black has escaped from Azkaban to come after you?" Ron asked incredulously, as if he was finding it hard to believe his best friend. Watching the three, Aurora had her legs crossed as she leaned forward on her elbows, not able to believe herself. One, that Arthur risked telling Harry such information - though she was proud he did; and two, that she has to sit there and pretend she doesn't know Sirius. Or even how the man is Harry's own Godfather.

"But they'll catch him, won't they?" Hermione questioned, eyebrows knitted together. "I mean…everyone's looking for him."

"Oh, you can bet Cornelius Fudge has all available Aurors searching for him. At the moment, he's the most wanted wizard in our community," Aurora piped in, noticing how the three young ones soaked in her words.

"Aurora's right," Ron said. "I mean sure, everyone's looking for him, except no one's ever broken out of Azkaban before…and he's a murderous, raving lunatic."

Slapping hands against their foreheads, Hermione and Aurora groaned, while Harry merely said, "Thanks Ron."

"Alright look," the female professor grasped their attention. "Dumbledore is already aware of the situation and is taking extra precautions at Hogwarts to ensure your safety. Trust me, any concerns you have, he has already thought of."

Harry didn't seemed convinced. "You sure?"

"Positive," she responded, ruffling his hair, hoping for the boy to smile, even just a tad. "You'd think I'd let anything happen to you three? After everything I've done for you?" They chuckled, with Harry leaning over, giving the woman a hug.

"Never," the boy said.

"Good! Because you three," she pointed to each one. "Are something special. And my door will always open whenever you need me." Hermione opened her mouth to speak, when all were stunned into silence, backs having heaved forward then slammed back against the cushioned seats. Slowly but surely, the Hogwarts Express was coming to a brisk halt, its brakes applied it haste.

"Why're we stopping?" The young witch gasped. "We can't be there yet."

Wand at the ready, Aurora quickly stood, knowing full well Remus would have the cabin taken care of in her absence - because she knew, at that moment, he was no longer asleep, for he was now faking and had been for some time. Opening the door, she peered out into the hall, as did all the other witches and wizards in their own compartments when the train suddenly thrashed with such vigor, they were torn from their positions and sent flying backwards. Having grasped the doorframe, Aurora stood on her feet, eyes composed as she observed the darkness of the outside world.

"Blood hell, wha's going on?!"

"I dunno, maybe we've broken down?" Always the one to try and calm his best friend, Harry merely sat on the seat, blandly between his friends and teacher, wondering what it is they should do. Knowing they'd be safe with Remus, she pointed her wand at them.

"Stay here," she stressed, half already outside, choosing to speak with the conductor if maybe Harry's assumption was indeed correct. Door swinging shut behind her, along with Ron's whimpering growing dim as she made way down the hall, all the lights flickered completely off, turning back on for a few seconds, then back off again for good. Aurora's sight was washed in and out of darkness as she made her way towards the end of the car, until the lights were killed completed, her vision black. Just as she muttered Lumos, she was thrown into the door leading to the next car, feeling the sensation as if the entire train was lifted off the tracks and thrown back down. Grasping the side of her head, the woman felt something warm and when she waved her wand over, groaned as she noticed blood on the fingertips. Standing, palm flat against the window, it was then she truly froze.

There was no logical explanation when the entirety of the window froze completely over; not just the water on the outside, but there was frozen water on the inside, underneath her palm. Breathing deeply as she could to calm her heart, Aurora knew what this was.

"No dad! Don't hurt mommy again!"

"Huh? What'd you say?!"

"I said don't hurt mommy! She's done nothing to you!"

"That's it, now you're gonna get it, you little shit!"

"Noooo! Lemme go, lemme go! GAAAHHHH!"

Pulled from her reverie, Aurora knew there were Dementors on the train. White, cold breath blew past her lips while retracing her steps backs towards the cabin. As her eyes were growing accustomed to the dark, she could make out two blurry figures just up ahead; lucky for her, a silver-white ball of light shot forth from inside the compartment, hitting the figure directly in the center of the chest, chasing it away, its screams echoing down the opposite direction. Dementor, Aurora thought. Racing forward, she easily noticed the second dark being behind the first, floating forward, seeking the young ones in the compartment, their happiness being its next meal.

Aurora would not allow that to happen.

"Expecto Patronum!" she muttered angrily, a fiery wisp of smoke curled out from the end of her wand, altering its form into that of a dragon. Slamming its might into the death-dealing creature, her patronus disappeared, along with the devilish creature. Stealing a glance at Remus, they traded spots, he ran through the rest of the train while she stayed with the others. "Are you three alright?!" She was exasperated, taking in the faces of Ron and Hermione.

"We're fine, Professor, but H-Harry…!"

"Harry's passed out! T-that, thing, it…!" Even Hermione couldn't keep her face straight, kneeling on the ground beside her friend.

"Everything's alright, I promise. Remus is checking the train right now to make sure we're in the clear." Gently taking hold of Harry's head, she resumed her seat and placed his head on her lap, running her fingers through his hair. After checking to ensure his pulse was at a steady rate, Aurora glanced up at the other two. "Tell me what happened."

"It…all happened really quick," Ron answered, sharing a look with Hermione, receiving comfort from cuddling her new cat, Crookshanks. "The lights went out, the train shook, and then that…thing was able to open the door without touching it."

BZZT…BZZT!

Their vision became clear, with all lights turned on once again, and as an added bonus, the train roared to life, its wheels rotating as they began moving towards their destination.

"Harry wouldn't move, as if he was so transfixed on those creatures and then he…he just grew lifeless before he fainted."

"Both of you, look at me." Their sunken eyes slowly drifted towards their teacher. "Harry will be just fine, he should wake in a few minutes. It's ok to be scared," she added at the end, seeing their hands slightly shaking. "What just happened, what you both witnessed, was frightening and should never have happened. Dumbledore will be furious, trust me."

Nodding his head, Ron suddenly dropped his mouth. "Professor, y-you're bleeding!"

Dabbing her finger against the gash on her forehead, Aurora winced, momentarily forgetting the darn thing was there. "Tch, of course, I was thrown into the door when they shook the train. Don't you worry about me, I'll be fine."

"No Professor, you should really put something against that, it's running down your cheek!" Quickly rummaging through her sack, Hermione thrusted her hands towards the older witch, her hand holding a white cloth. "Here, I keep this on hand."

"Thanks, sweetie." Dabbing the cloth against her head, Aurora recoiled, considering the injury may be deeper than she originally thought.

"We're all in the clear," Remus' voice appeared as he opened the compartment door. Hermione, having knelt on the floor, left the middle spot open, to which Remus took, eyes fixed on Harry. "I've been up and down this train, they're gone and as you can tell, we are back on track to Hogwarts. We should still arrive practically on schedule."

Sighing in relief, Aurora still found her fingers running through the boy's hair. She didn't consider the idea of her having a close friendship with any students outside of the classroom, but there was something about this infamous band of three. Since their first year, she felt protective of their well-being, and the moment she was asked to assist them with the Polyjuice Potion last year, Aurora knew they were special to her. Today seemed to prove it when they stated how they all trusted her.

"Don't be surprised if Dumbledore already knows what happened," she muttered, still dabbing at her forehead.

"I wouldn't put it past him, still, we should explain what we saw," his eyes flickered downward, indicating how Harry experienced having his soul extracted by a Dementor.

"Most definitely," she whispered.

"Harry!" Hermione exclaimed, leaning forward to see her friend's eyes blinking open. Taking him by the shoulders, Aurora slowly eased him upward, his back easing into the cushion of the seat. Hermione handed him his glasses, his eyes glossed over, confused and forgotten where he even was.

Remus, digging into the pockets of his cloak, randomly summoned a bar of chocolate, breaking off a piece before offering it to Harry. "Here, eat this, it'll help." Taking the sweet, Harry wasn't sure what to make of the item as Aurora merely chuckled with a roll of her eyes. "Don't worry, it's chocolate."

Sweeping his eyes across everyone in the cabin, they finally landed on the door, reimagining the black, cloaked figure standing there, what just seemed moments ago. "…what was that thing?"

"A Dementor," Remus answered.

Fiddling with her hair, Aurora was disturbed, as the poor boy shouldn't have experienced such an awful occurrence. Whatever reason the Dementors had in thinking Sirius Black was on the train, shame on them! "They're the guards of Azkaban Prison."

"There were two, and they were searching for Sirius Black. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to have a little word with the driver" Remus stood, moving towards the door as he opened it once more. Stealing a peek back at Harry, he noticed the boy hadn't taken a bite. "Eat," he adamantly stated. "You'll feel better."

A moment of silence passed.

Then two.

Then three.

"What…happened to me?" questioned Harry, slowly but surely taking small bites of the chocolate.

"Well, you sorta went rigid, we thought you might be having a fit or something," Ron answered uncomfortably, not sure how to answer. Still dabbing her forehead, Aurora watched the other two, curious to see how they would describe the situation. She wasn't in the room, and could only conjure an idea what occurred. Nevertheless, with Dementors being involved, however, she could assume exactly what Harry had felt.

"And did either of you," Harry glanced at all three of them. "…you know, pass out?"

"No, I just felt weird. Like I'd never be cheerful again," admitted Ron, with his female friend nodding in agreement. "A-Aurora…? What exactly do Dementors do?"

The woman vigorously shook her head. "No. You three have had enough for one day. If anything, you can ask me tomorrow or Professor Lupin once you're in his class."

"But…" Harry still chewed on some chocolate, considering his next words carefully. "Someone was screaming; I heard them."

Stretching her hand onto his leg, Hermione was still concerned for her friend. "No one was screaming, Harry."

Her words seemed to crush the wizard as he peered outside the window, seemingly lost in his own reflection. Having a thought as to what he heard, Aurora's heart beat for the boy and was worried for his safety. It was one thing for the Dementor to board the train, yes, but what made them attack Harry Potter specifically? Remaining quiet until they reached the station at Hogsmeade, Aurora made sure her three students safely exited the train when she and Remus apparated towards the castle gate, her old friend in awe at the sight of seeing the castle once again after so long.

With some time until the feast, she and Severus agreed to meet in their chambers once she had made it back to the castle. Moving quickly down into the dungeons, the woman nearly bypassed her new quarters as she meandered towards her old chambers, retracing her steps towards the room she was now sharing with Severus. Whispering said password, the portrait opened and, without missing a beat, was met with the flapping of Sapphire's squeaks, the tiny dragon's wings flying in her direction as the creature curled around her neck.

Extending her long, forked tongue, Sapphire licked her mothers cheek, causing the woman to cry out. "Aww, did my baby miss me?"

"Miss you?" Hastily folding his copy of the Daily Prophet, Severus eyed the dragon around her neck as he groaned, grasping the bridge of his nose. "She has not stopped crying all day."

"Sapphire," Aurora said sternly. "You knew I was coming back." Rubbing the top her dragon's head, the woman still giggled, loving the creature all the same. "I'm sorry you had to suffer on my behalf, Severus."

A roll of his eyes, Severus stood to his feet, soon followed by Merlin who had been asleep at his feet. "I work with students for my career. You think I can't handle a crying dragon?"

"I mean…" Shrugging, she simply agreed. Sapphire could be troublesome when she was lonely, but having to deal with hundreds of students in a wide range of ages? Yeah, "Then maybe I should leave you with her more often, she does get pretty - "

"What is that."

Quirking an eyebrow, Aurora froze her hand still stroking Sapphire, not quite sure what he was talking of. Grasping her chin, Severus tilted her head, leaning in closer to inspect her forehead, having noticed the deep laceration above her eye.

"This," the man said, voice dropping. "What happened on that train. Did Lupin touch you?"

"N-No! And don't get any ideas before I even tell you what actually happened!" Grabbing a spare rag, Severus dampened the cloth before forcing Aurora to sit at the table as he wiped away any dried blood and cleaned the surrounding area. Wincing, she gently pulled Sapphire into her lap, the purring dragon content as long as she was snuggled into her mother; Aurora carefully watched Severus, curious to know what he was thinking. So, she simply blurted out what occurred. "There were Dementors on the train."

Hand halting mid-air, Severus cocked an eyebrow at the statement before resuming. "How many?"

"Two. The train stopped and I left the cabin to see what was going on. All the lights went out and then the train felt like it was lifted off the tracks, which threw me into the door, giving me this," she pointed to her head. "I knew something was on the train so I went back to my cabin and there was a Dementor; thankfully Remus used his patronus on the first. He didn't see the second, but I was able to take care of it."

"And they were gone, just like that?"

"It seems so, yeah. Remus ran through the entire train and said they fled. There's something I don't understand. Why were they there and why they attacked Harry."

"Potter? What do you mean?"

"Harry and his friends were in my compartment. While I was gone, the Dementor started feasting on Harry's soul; the poor thing was all shaken up when he finally awoke."

Throwing the rag onto the counter, Severus stepped into the bedroom, returning a moment later with their First Aid Kit from the bathroom. Searching for the best one, the man placed a square gauze pad over the gash then taped over it. Sighing, the male looked over it once more than into Aurora's blue eyes. "If that's still bleeding after your classes tomorrow, you're going to see Poppy."

"Yes sir," Aurora said meekly, as if she'd done something wrong.

Inhaling and releasing said breath, Severus nudged Sapphire onto the table as he took hold of Aurora's hand, tenderly raising the woman to her feet. Arms circling her waist, the man held her close, having missed her presence by his side all day. Hands wandering up her figure, Severus cupped his fingers against her cheek, pulling the woman even closer. "I have missed you, Aurora."

Smiling, she leaned forward, her lips connecting with his. "It's about bloody time you admit it Sev, I was getting worried."

"Hn, clever girl," he grinned against her lips.

Softly licking his, enticing the man for more, she whispered, "I'm your clever girl."

Twenty minutes and a heated snogging session on the couch later, the two finally made their way towards the ground floor into the Great Hall as the other staff were seatings themselves. Taking their normal seats, Aurora happily greeted Remus when he arrived, noting the way both males ignored each other. Shaking her head, the witch knew it would be like this, which is why she was sitting the middle between them, hoping it would, at least, dissolve any hostility for the night.

And so, once the returning students were all in their seats, Minerva began the Sorting Ceremony. Aurora loved watching all the new First Years being sorted into their House, it reminded the woman of the night she arrived to Hogwarts. Turning her head slightly towards the Potions Master beside her, she slid her hand beneath the table to squeeze his hand, remembering how that was the first night she gazed into his obsidian eyes. Feeling Severus' fingers tighten around hers, the woman lowered her head, unable to contain the smile grazing her face. All the staff knew of their relationship, it was just the students who were ill-informed, with two of their Professors being in a romantic relationship.

That would come at another time, they decided.

"Something wicked this way comes!"

Having listened to the wonderful production from Professor Flitwick's choir, everyone cheered, for when the students and their croaking frogs left their podiums, Albus walked up to his new podium of a golden owl. Collecting everyone's attention, the Headmaster was now ready to begin the new year.

"Welcome, welcome, to another year at Hogwarts! Now, I'd like to say a few words…before we all become to befuddled by our excellent feast. First, I'm pleased to welcome Professor R. J. Lupin…who's kindly consented to fill the post, of Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. Good luck, Professor."

Beside Aurora, Remus stood, grasping his hands as he nodded, glancing around behind resuming his seat. On her other side, Severus merely clapped his hands three times, allowing them to fall against the table. Once the new Professor sat down, the witch dropped her fingers towards her lover's thigh and pinched with her nails. Tightening his lips, ever the master in keeping a straight face, he did nothing, other than grasp her fist with his and held it there until the Headmaster's speech was over. Smirking, Aurora knew she would suffer for that later and would gladly suffer any consequences for her actions.

"Our Care of Magical Creatures teacher, has now decided to retire…in order to spend more time with his remaining limbs. Fortunately, I'm delighted to announce that his place will be taken by none other than our own Rubeus Hagrid." On the other side of the table, Minerva elbowed the half-giant when he didn't stand up from his seat, and as he did, he nearly tipped the table over. Covering her mouth, Aurora was still surprised Hagrid would accept such a position. Excited all the same, she had welcomed her friend's offer to assist on her first day tomorrow during the break between her classes.

"Finally, on a more disquieting note, at the request of the Ministry of Magic…Hogwarts will, until further notice, play host…to the Dementors of Azkaban" Tightening her grip on Severus, Aurora's eyes immediately sought out Harry's in the crowd. As if the boy was feeling the fear from earlier, he, too, searched for her at the staff table. Breathing deeply, she nodded as their eyes connected, hoping he understood that everything was going to be alright. "…until such a time as Sirius Black is capture. The Dementors will be stations at every entrance to the grounds."

Severus took note of her behavior, peering from the corner of his vision and following it to the Gryffindor table, towards Harry Potter. Thinking back on their discussion from the occurrence on the train, it didn't surprise the Potions Master how protective Aurora had become over the boy. Did he find himself irritated? More than he should, yes. Was he going to confront Aurora and put an end to her looking after Jame's son? No, he wouldn't; he couldn't. Seeing the way she cared for the boy rattled something in his brain about a dream she had at the end of last term.

"We had a family. I was holding a little girl and you had your hand on my growing belly."

Me…becoming a father? the man thought. I see her acting the way a mother would and I want…is that how she would be if we…were to have children…?

"Now, whilst I've been assured that their presence will not disrupt our day-to-day activities, a word of caution. Dementors are vicious creatures," Albus firmly recited. "They'll not distinguish between the one they hunt and the one who gets in their way. Therefore, I must warn each and every one of you…to give them no reason to harm you. It is not in the nature of a Dementor to be forgiving. But you know, happiness can be found…even in the darkest of times," the man flicked his hand over one of the candles on his podium, causing the flame to extinguish. "…if one only remembers…to turn on the light." And then flicked his hand over it once more for the flame to be brought back to life.

Shaking his head, Severus could only wonder what this year was to bring. Glancing to the woman at his side, he was ready to make some changes in his life. First, they would have to survive another year, considering how the last two went, but the Potions Master knew everything would be different for him and Aurora. Thinking on Albus' last words before the feast began, Severus knew the wise Headmaster was right. He had been in the darkness for too long, and here by his side was his light. It was time for him to keep that light burning by his side.

Forever.

~ oOo ~

Please stay tuned. I'm working to update my AoT fanfic then I'll be back to working on this once more. May plan is to update at least two more times after this chapter before May! :)

Chocobocolina :3