Chapter Twenty-Two

Your Fears Are My Fears

A/N: It started out good, then transformed into something else, I have no idea. I knew this chapter was going to give me a headache, but good gracious. Please don't be too critical, I know it's not my best work; this was a very odd chapter for me to write.

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 ~

"And that, my class, is what we will be learning this year in Medicinal Potions. Come June, I expect perfect brews of potions that could potentially save the lives of others. Are there any questions?"

Glancing across her class, Aurora was ecstatic to see all her students taking notes, as this was the first day for their course. One student raised a hand after a few moments passed, the witch pointing in their direction as she call on them. "Yes?"

"Um…this isn't really a question about your class, but…" Merlin suddenly jumped from the ground onto the students desk. She and several others started giggling, all wanting to pet the beautiful black feline. "Will he be joining the class each time?" As if on cue, Merlin meowed, stretching his head in search for someone to scratch behind his ears.

Leaning against her desk, the woman sighed, lips held tightly in a grin she refused to fight. "Oh geez. Come here, Merlin." Ears perked at the sound of Aurora's voice, the black cat jumping down and ran to the front, bouncing back upon her owner's desk. Scratching her animals favorite spot, the feline curled its body in contempt. "This little rascal will sometime be here, if that answers your questions. Some days he follows me, others, he just likes to lounge around in my chambers on his favorite pillow."

The class erupted in oohs and awws, mainly from the female students. Joining in as well, Aurora couldn't resist in chuckling as she too found the situation endearing. "Alright, let's get back to the original topic. Does anyone have any questions regarding the purpose of this class or what you'll learn?" None raised their hands. "Hm, well alright. If you think of something, bring your questions to the next class. Until then, there's some homework you have to complete." Her class groaned, this only caused their professor to smirk more. "It's only day one, better get used to being in school again. Alright, on a page of parchment, I want each of you to write down any and all medicinal potions you already know, whether you learned it last year with Professor Snape or on your own. With each potion, write a description of its properties and ingredients as well."

Now a hand shot upward from a student in the back. "What if we only know one potion?"

Aurora gently smiled. "That's perfectly fine, work with the knowledge you have - and no textbooks! This assignment is for me to assess the capacity of what you already know. So if you only remember partial ingredients, list as many as you can." Her students nodded, most writing down the assignment. "Good, well then! That's a wrap for today, you're dismissed early."

Smiling while grabbing their belongings, each student trekked out of the classroom, leaving their professor alone. Waving her hand to the last students to leave, she waved again once they were gone, the chalkboard turned over, hiding her lecture for class the following morning. Leaving her desk as is, she walked out the door, ensuring it was locked as she exited.

"Merlin."

MEOW.

"It's lunchtime, let's go." She waved at the feline, its long, black legs moved to Aurora as she crouched down, bringing the creature to curl into her chest. Rubbing her chin against the cats head, Sapphire purred into her neck. Content and happy, the professor leisurely made her way upstairs towards the Great Hall.

As she entered the propped doors, Aurora was met with smiles, some students calling out to her, simply nodding in acknowledgement as her arms were currently occupied. Claiming her usual seat, the witch was startled to see she was the only staff at the table, wondering if her fellow faculty were still in classes or eating in their offices. Shrugging her shoulders, the woman set both her loving pets upon the table. Setting aside a small plate for each, she filled one with raw meat - specifically added for Sapphire per her polite request - as well as a tiny bowl of milk and shredded chicken for her fattening Merlin. Now that each creature was slurping or munching happily away, Aurora finally was able to fix her own plate of chips, a sandwich and some strawberries.

Munching away, Aurora cautiously bit into a sweet strawberry, her eyes catching those of Remus as he walked into hall, a small wave with his hand at his side. He, too, acknowledged several students, mainly the infamous three from the Gryffindor table before taking a seat beside his colleague and old friend.

"And who might this beautiful creature be?" Extending his hand to Merlin, the cat quirked an eye at the stranger, gingerly sniffed his finger, then returned his attention back to his milk.

"This beauty is Merlin."

"Ahh, a mischievous name from a well known mischievous wizard." Filling his plate, the two fell into a comfortable silence, Aurora gazed at the four House tables, humor consuming her insides as each individual was doing something different. Some were only eating, some eating and talking amongst their friends, while others had books open, simultaneously working on homework. From her position at the head table, she could see Draco fawning over his injured arm that was still in a sling.

Interesting, I don't think he still needed the sling, she thought.

Across the way, Harry, Ron and Hermione veered their eyes away from the spectacle, obviously discussing what they saw. She could only imagine they were also discussing the reason for his injury: Buckbeak. Reflecting on the last week, she'd overheard Albus had indeed received a hateful letter from Lucius; now, it was only a matter on time until the man took legal action against Hagrid.

"Aurora?"

Jumping, she squealed as Remus pulled a hand away, having placed it upon her shoulder in a failed attempt to gain her attention. Forcing a laugh to hide her embarrassment, the woman in question smoothed her breathing. Somehow she was to lost in thought to hear her name being called. "Hm, yes, Remus?"

"You've been spaced for a few minutes. Everything alright?"

"Oh, oh yeah," she muttered quickly. "D-Did you need something?"

"Ah, I did." Shoving his plate to the side, Remus turned towards the woman, curious to what he could need. It had been only a week since school began and this was his first year of teaching. It could be anything he wanted some assistance with. "I'm not quite sure what your schedule is, but are you free tomorrow during the period before lunch?"

"Tomorrow? Why yes, I have both periods prior to lunch available."

"Would you be willing to assist with my Third Year class? We'll be covering Boggarts and the Riddikulus spell and I was hoping for the students to witness firsthand a staff member at work. I've noticed the students listen to you, your rapport with them is positive, and I would like to start off the term with the same concept. Is it alright to ask such a request?"

She laughed for real this time. "My goodness, does everyone want my help this year? Of course I'll help, Remus, I'd love to. Sounds fun!"

"Really? This is good news, thank you, Aurora." Retrieving his plate, the man continued to consume his lunch. Aurora, on the other hand, slowly drank her glass of water, a thought having crossed her mind.

"Um, Remus…" Gaining his attention, she crossed her legs underneath the table, casually petting Merlin, who was now curled in a fur cocoon, satisfied with his lunch. "If you're wanting the students to see a staff perform the spell, why don't you…?" Blinking at her confusion, Remus merely peered from his peripherals, the witch closing her lips at her own realization. "Oh, you're worried they'll see your own boggart?"

"Correct, I'd rather not take that risk, anything to keep my secret just that: a secret."

Patting his hand, Aurora smiled warmly. "No worries here; I'll do everything I can to help. How's the potion…?" She dropped her voice. "Anything we need to know for next time?"

His own smile was brilliant, the first she had seen in the last week. "Unless you could give the bloody thing a better taste, we'll see tomorrow night if it'll work."

At that, she squeezed his fingers. "Please keep me informed. "We may have lost contact for a few years, but you've always been my friend, Remus."

"And you, Aurora. After James and Lily…then Sirius, I…" Swallowing thickly, the man was at a loss for words. "You're just a wonderful person, Aurora. Has anyone ever told you that?"

"They might have, but I don't want it to go to my head."

"Well you are, never lost that quality, you hear me? We need more people like you in our world."

"Aw Remus, don't get sappy on me now. At least, don't let Severus see." The woman slapped her own forehead. "Know what, I don't care, just be you. He knows the relationship we have."

Having now finished his meal, Remus removed the plate from his sight. "The same Severus I graduated with? The same you're…?"

"No, no! Shh!" Tempted to cover his own mouth, Aurora reminded herself where she was. She and Remus had been joined by several other staff members across the table, though there were impressionable students in front of them. She knew full well several would possible spread indecent rumors if they were to see anything out of the ordinary. A certain red-headed twins were the main culprits to appear within her mind. Lowering her voice again, she said, "Don't mention that aloud! The staff all know except the students!"

"Alright, alright." Heaving a sigh, she released his hand, when Remus cocked his head, turning closer to her. "On second thought, I have a question."

"Oh boy, here we go."

"Was that a unanimous decision or was a certain someone we know too embarrassed to admit he's together with…probably the best witch of our time?" Slyly, the wizard quirked an eyebrow as Aurora exaggerated an eye roll.

"Nice compliment, except! This was our decision, we weren't sure if or when to reveal our relationship; if ever, on that matter."

"Ah, you two truly are in sync, aren't you?"

Nearly spitting her mouthful of water over Sapphire, Aurora clapped her chest, not expecting in the slightest the man's comment. Cleaning her face, and the few spots on the table, Aurora shook her head, wondering how their conversation had taken a sharp one-eighty. "I'm not sure if I even want to answer that," she mumbled, lips twitching to grin.

"Ever the secrecy, my dear. Some things have changed, I see."

"Changed? I-I'm not that different am I?!"

"For starters…"

"He's been sighted! He's been sighted!"

All staff at the table swung their heads towards the entrance to the Great Hall; one Mister Seamus Finnigan, quickly making way towards the center of the Gryffindor table where his friends were sitting. Throwing what seemed to be a copy of the Daily Prophet onto the table, the closest individuals reached for the paper when Hermione grabbed it first, swiftly reading through the small text.

"Dufftown? That's not far from here," she said, concerned edged across her voice.

"You don't think he'd come to Hogwarts," Neville shyly asked. "Do you?"

"With dementors at every entrance?!"

"Dementors? He slipped past them once, who's to say he won't do it again?!"

Hand closing over her mouth, Aurora wished Severus was by her side. She felt trapped, having known Sirius as a student, even after he and the others left school. Since that fateful day twelve years ago, she'd known deep down Sirius wasn't the killer. The woman hadn't been there that night when all those unfortunate Muggles were murdered, nor when Peter Pettigrew was slain; there was just…something about the incident which rubbed her the wrong way since then. The person she knew as Sirius Black had been a bloody arsehole to her, yet even she was open-minded enough to realize the Gryffindor was loyal beyond belief to James, Remus and their friends.

Speaking of which.

Gazing at her longtime friend, Remus' mood turned solemn. Rightfully so, Aurora could only imagine the inner turmoil Sirius escaping from prison had done to the man. She had to admit, Remus had bags under his eyes when they met last week, leaving her to brush it off as nerves in becoming a new teacher. Now, with the papers claiming his old friend was making headway towards the school, Aurora was left to wonder what the bloody hell he was thinking.

Catching her eyes on him, Remus merely waved off her worry. "Do not fret on my account," he offered in a small voice. "If he does make it to Hogwarts, I plan to apprehend him with the other staff. It is…the right thing to do."

"Remus…"

Standing quickly, the male cleared his area, straightening his back as he prepared to leave. "I will be fine, Aurora. I've had twelve years to consider the situation, all will eventually be well." And then he was off, giving his friend no time to offer any sympathy; after twelve years, she doubt he wanted any.

Consuming whatever remained on her plate, Aurora placed Sapphire on her shoulders and Merlin in her arms, passing by the students as she trekked back down into the dungeons. With one of her classrooms and chambers in the basement of the castle, it only made sense for her office to be located in the lower levels as well. Unlocking the door, her creatures raced to their prospective spots; one upon a pillow near the window, the other near the now roaring fire. Though the castle was in the mid-transition between summer and fall, Aurora curled her robe around her tiny frame, the chill of the dungeons surprisingly bitter that afternoon.

Seated at her desk, the witch stared sadly at the pile of papers she'd already accumulated from her Muggles course. Parchments needed to be graded; quizzes prepared for; lessons created; even managing the list she and Severus created for Remus' Wolfsbane Potion.

Motivating herself to work, Aurora jumped right into the parchments needed to graded, deciding to tackle the task which would require most of her time. Light through window gradually faded, as it was already diluted from the lake. Various creatures and fish swam past, and occasionally, she would see the infamous giant squid lazily pass by.

Oh how she wished to be anywhere other than her office, quill in hand, dipped into her dark red ink. She kept her focus forward, having told herself one stack should be complete by the time she headed upstairs to her last class right before dinner. Luckily for her, the parchments she first tackled were finished within an hour, allowing the witch to prepare lesson plans during the remainder of her spare office hours. In the time that remained, she completed two weeks worth of lessons for one class, all the while mentally occupied to see Severus.

Heaving a sigh in acceptance, Aurora stood on wobbly legs, having been seated without rest the entire time she was there. Acknowledging the time, she grabbed what paperwork was needed, called for Sapphire and Merlin to follow, then left her office, heading back towards her classroom in the dungeons for her last segment of the day. As it was double Medicinal Potions, the two hours seemed to lag on, though the woman kept going strong. The class itself was doing wonderful, all the students seemingly interested in the lesson, as well as the physical application when they had to brew their potions. This by itself, left Aurora happy, as it made teaching easier, though she was simply content the students were learning while seeming to retain the new information each day.

Soon, the class ended, leaving the woman winded and tired as she swept across the room to clean tables and put aside the individual vials of the students potions to be graded over the weekend. In preparation for the next class, she spent some time making notes, listing the ingredients on the chalkboard. For the next day, as she didn't have any classes prior to lunch, she typically spent that time preparing the room for when she would next meet her students. However, as she already agreed to assist Remus in his course, she wanted to take this chance to get ahead, seeing how her time in the morning was now limited.

Chalk dust blew away as she copied her handwritten notes to the board. Engrossed in her task, Aurora hadn't even noticed the creak of her door open, Severus stepping through to see she was oblivious to his entrance.

"Aurora."

Screeching, she dropped the chalk in fright, chest heaving to and fro while peering at the man, whose lips quirked upward slightly. "Bloody hell, what is it today? Why is everyone determined to scare me?"

"It's fairly easy when you get so lost in your work. And I thought you were better at analyzing your surroundings." The wizard clicked his tongue, wrapping his arms around the woman's waist as she straightened from picking up the broken pieces of chalk. "Tsk, tsk, Aurora."

"Everybody's a critic," she mumbled, ignoring the warmth of his hands. "Sorry I'm not as perfect as you in that sense, Severus."

Laying his lips firmly upon her neck, the wizard placed heated kisses up and down her skin. "Considering you're already perfect, just once I'll let this slip."

"Mmmm…" Moaning aloud, this is what Aurora had been wanting all day. Barely having any time that morning before breakfast, this was the longest they'd been together all day. "Isn't this a nice surprise. I love it when you get all mushy on me."

Biting her neck, Severus grew a prolonged mewl from her throat. "Despite what others may think, I do have a softer side; though it's reserved solely for you, Aurora. It would ruin my reputation otherwise."

"I know." Twisting in his arms, she cuddled closely into his chest. "You have no idea how lucky I am to be able to see this side of you. It should come out more often."

Cupping her face, Severus peered into her eyes. "I'm thinking it should stay hidden."

Pouting, Aurora returned to copying her notes. "Psh, well you're no fun." Scratching against the chalkboard grew into their silence, Aurora fought to ignore the way Severus' hands roamed her body.

"No fun, you say? I believe there are several fun things we could do before dinner that might change your mind."

~ oOo ~

Having thoroughly enjoyed her evening with a certain wizard, Aurora woke the following morning sore beyond belief, though pleasantly loved and sated overshadowed how her legs buckled the moment she stood from the bed.

Leisurely enjoying her morning, Aurora took her time in getting ready, having nowhere to be until Remus's class. Eating breakfast with Severus in the confines of their chambers was a change in their routine, one they welcomed as they could eat without hundred of eyes staring at them. It ended just as quickly when the male had to leave for his first class, stating he'd rather spend time with her instead of his dunderhead of students. Pushing him out of their chambers, Aurora was left with a laugh when the portrait closed.

With the time she had remaining, Aurora read on the couch, Merlin curled comfortably on her stomach. Warm with a purring cat upon her, the woman nearly fell asleep, in spite of having just woken up. Realizing she was doomed to succumb to her sudden tiredness, she stood, stretched her limbs and proceeded to dress for the day ahead. As she didn't need to prepare her classroom, the woman was slow when it came to showering, going so far as to try different hairstyles instead to the typical one she wore everyday. Eventually piling the thick locks upon her head, Aurora grabbed her wand, placed Sapphire around her neck then left.

Heading up the Grand Staircase, she entered the room she had been familiar with as a student. Remus was already there, having set aside his front desk to be replaced with a large, mirrored armoire; stepping closer, she snickered as the wooden frame rocked back and forth.

"Ah, I see now. Good way to trap a boggart, I'd say."

Swiveling around, Remus smiled. "Ah, good morning Aurora!"

"Morning to you too. So," she clapped her hands together. "There anything you need help with?"

"Actually there is. Can you line the desks against the wall. I want the students standing for this lesson, so we'll need all the room we can get."

"Certainly." Reducing their size and stacking all desks atop a dresser, Aurora opened her mouth to state she was done when she realized Remus was fiddling with a record player. "Goodness, you plan to play music for your students?"

"Yes," he smirked, realigning the speaker. "I believe music helps, and it might also reduce the students anxiety at seeing what they fear most. As for you, my friend. I think I'll have you be an example after a few students go first. It might give the others reassurance that even adults such as ourselves still have something to be scared of."

"Though they might be more interested in an adult who doesn't fear anything. Find me someone who doesn't, then we'll talk."

"Umm," finished with the contraption, he moved closer. "If I may, what of Severus?"

Eyebrow quirked, Aurora shook her head rather than stare. "I'll pretend I didn't hear that. For the record, if I were to answer your question, I'd inform you that Severus is just as human as you and I." Arms crossed, stepped away.

Acknowledging he was in the wrong, Remus placed his wand on the inside pocket of his cloak, rubbing his hands together to think of something to say. "I am…sorry, Aurora. It is not my place to question the relationship you two share, I just…Having not seen you in so long, there's this part of me that wants to protect you. Considering the history I share with Severus, I can't help but inquire if he has the potential to be what you need."

"And you do?" She countered sharply.

Backing off, the man leaned against the dresser next to her. "I…did," he admitted.

"You…? Oh." Startled by the confession, Aurora cast her gaze around the room, not sure if she could look her friend in the eye. Knowing it was what she needed to do, she called his name. "Remus, don't tell me you…?"

"I did," he repeated, then noticed her facade. "No, no, I'm not purposely interfering between you and Severus. I've said this before, but it's the truth; you're the only real friend I have left. After you left school, heartbroken from Severus, we grew closer and I'd hoped…maybe you saw me in the same light."

"R-Remus…" Touching his arm, the man didn't even glance her way.

"I'm alright, this was years ago. Now, I'm just trying to be the supportive friend, yet I can only remember the way he hurt you last time. I don't want you to suffer again."

"Y-Yeah," she stuttered, trying to find the right words. "Your concern is appreciated Remus, truly. But I'll be fine. Severus and I have talked a lot about what happened and we're working hard so our relationships lasts."

"He…really loves you, doesn't he?" Student echoed outside of the door, Remus closing his mouth as his classroom began filing up. Stepping forward to greet his students, Aurora stepped forth, quickly whispering so the others couldn't hear.

"He always has. The man's too damn stubborn to admit; just…don't tell him I said that," then she resumed her position along the wall next, hopping up on the dresser.

Snickering, the new professor promised, lips curling, knowing his friend was going to be alright. Severus was the definition of an enigma, bewildering Remus in not knowing if the Potions Master would keep his word and love Aurora the way she deserved. As he'd admitted, there was a time Remus developed feelings for the with during a time when they were vulnerable. Those feelings now were lessened; still, the new professor wouldn't say his love was gone, it had just…transformed, and wasn't about to go back.

"Good morning, everyone!"

"Good morning, professor," everyone mumbled. Their faces turned left and right, confused why the chairs were no longer present.

"Yes, yes, I'm aware the room is different. Today, we'll be participating in a practical lesson. Now lets all form a group right here," Remus waved his hands forward, indicating where he wanted to students to be. Some smiled at Aurora who waved back, placing her index finger against her lips, hoping they would pay attention to their actual professor. "I see, you've noticed our guest today. I have asked Professor Warrington to assist with today's lesson. Though she teaches her two subjects, Professor Warrington is extremely skilled in the Dark Arts. You were on the Dueling Team back in school, were you not?"

"I was," she nodded. "Defensive spells are key to protect oneself against another wizard, but as Third Years, this is when you'll really learn to fight against some of the more darker creatures in our world." A collective gasp from several students sounded, as everyone glanced around, whispering amongst their friends.

"Professor Warrington is correct; Couldn't have said it better myself. The past two years you have been learning much about the Dark Arts and how it can assist you against others." Weaving between his class, Remus trekked from behind, observing how the students reacted when the armoire jumped off its legs, rattling back and forth in a chance to escape. "For our first class, I wanted to present one of the creatures Professor Warrington has mentioned. Today, you will not only see your deepest fear in this world, but have the chance to confront it while being in danger."

Rattling again, the large wardrobe didn't stop, the aged mirror on its door mimicking the stunned expressions of all within the room.

"Intriguing, isn't it?" Remus offered, moving around the students towards Aurora. "Would anyone like to venture a guess…as to what is inside?"

"That's a boggart, that is." Dean Thomas answered quickly, attention fixated on the armoire. Impressed, Aurora was genuinely surprised the boy knew immediately what it was without seeing it. Then again, with a boggart, you really cannot see it at all.

"Very good, Mr. Thomas. Now, can anybody tell me what a boggart looks like?"

Having stepping inside the room quietly, Hermione placed herself in front of everyone, needing Remus to see that she was in attendance for his class. "No one knows," she offered, sounding breathless. Based on her heavy class load, Aurora knew this was going to be a tough year for the girl, but Hermione wanted to prove she could do the impossible.

Jumping at her sudden voice, Ron looked back and forth between Hermione and Harry. "When did she get here?"

"Boggarts are shapeshifters. They take the shape of whatever a person fears the most. That's what makes them so - "

"So terrifying, yes, yes, yes…Luckily, a very simple charm exists to repel a boggart. Professor Warrington, if you please: what spell am I speaking of?"

"Riddikulus," she answered giddily, swinging her legs back and forth.

"Perfect. Now class, let's practice now; without wands, please. Repeat after me: Riddikulus."

"Riddikulus," their voices echoed.

"Very good; a little louder and very clearly. Listen: Riddikulus."

"Riddikulus," they repeated once more.

"Good, very, very good. Now, so much for the easy part. You see, the incantation alone is not enough. Aurora?" Remus gestured back towards her. "Besides the spell, what wards off a boggart?"

"Laughter." Jumping from the dresser, she stood beside Remus. "Boggarts are susceptible to laughter. Meaning, as you state the spell, you must be thinking of something you find amusing; anything that'll get you to laugh."

"Like what?" Seamus asked.

"Anything," she answered. "The key here, is to think of something you find funny, not what others find amusing."

"Correct. Now, let me explain. Neville, would you join us up here, please?" Caught off guard, Neville stepped back, only to realize it was him that was called on.

"It's ok, Neville. You'll do amazing, alright?" Nodding her head with an encouraging smile seemed to do the trickier the scared Gryffindor. Apprehensively, Neville stood before his two professors, waiting of instruction."

"Neville, what frightens you most of all?"

"…Professor Snape," the boy said so quietly, on one heard. Except for Aurora. Oh Severus, what have you done to the poor boy to make hi fear you so?

"Sorry? Speak louder, please."

"Professor Snape," he said with louder, shrinking into his robes.

"P-Professor Snape," Remus repeated with a chuckle, forcing his eyes not to peek at the friend beside him. "Yes, he frightens all. And I do believe you live with your grandmother, no?"

"Yes, but I don't want it to turn into her either!"

"No, it won't. Now, I want you to picture her clothes, only her clothes. So think, very, very clearly in your mind."

"She carries a red handbag…"

"We don't need to hear. As long as you see it, we'll see it."

"A-Are you sure?"

"We're sure." Aurora gripped her student's shoulder. "Trust yourself, Neville. You can do this." Leaving him at the front, she followed Remus, returning to her position by the side.

Nodding in agreement, Remus said, "Now, when I open that wardrobe, here's what I want you to do…" Whispering by his ear, Neville's eyes rose, seeming to grasp his task. "Think you can do that?" He nodded, as his professors stepped off to the side. "Good, good. Now, wand at the ready. One, two…three." With a flick, the door opened.

And out crawled Professor Snape.

The boggart-turned-Severus steadily moved to Neville, the boy freezing on the spot. "Think, Neville, think!"

Whisking his wand outward, Neville confidently stated, "Riddikulus!"

Aurora was forced to turn her head away, hand muffing her mouth. The boggart-turned-Severus instantly transformed into the same wardrobe as Neville's grandmother. A green, two-piece knit dress, black hat with an owl atop, lace fingerless gloves, and, of course, the vibrant red handbag. Roars of laughter erupted from the students, gawking at the chance to see their Potions Master in a dress, who turned around helplessly looking for an escape.

"Wonderful Neville, wonderful! Ok, to the back; everyone form a line!" Rushing to be first, everyone pushed together to form a line all the way to the class door. Pushing, shoving, the students were eager to see what amusement they could find from their practical lesson. Moving beside Aurora, Remus started the music on the record player, giving the class a lighthearted feel while learning simultaneously. "Next. Ron!"

Stepping forward, the red-head knew exactly what his boggart would be, a spider. Low and behold, the shapeshifter turned into a giant black widow. Grimacing, the boy was petrified, stuck between knowing it was all an illusion and believing there really was a spider crawling towards him.

"Wand at the ready Ronald! Find something amusing and use it to your advantage!" Aurora called over the music.

"Riddikulus!" Spell casting forth, the spider's legs wobbled as it lost its balance. Skates became attached to each limb, causing the boggart to fling around, trying to find its stability against the moving contraptions. Clapping loudly, Aurora was impressed, the students were grasping lessons concept fairly easily.

"Yes, yes! You see? Very good. Absolutely marvelous. Next, Parvati!"

The young girl stepped forward, eyes bulging as the spider transformed into a large snake. Hissing as it swiveled its head, the snake inched closer. Throwing her hand out, Parvati voiced the spell, working perfectly as it was morphed into an oversized jack-in-the-box, the massive clown insert swinging back and forth. After she moved, Harry stepped forward, Remus casting a worried glance back to Aurora. Sadly, they knew the potential boggart for the poor would most likely be Voldemort himself, the young male having seen most fears his peers couldn't even imagine experiencing. To their surprise, the boggart turned into a Dementor. Remus, however, was already in the midst of jumping in front of Harry, blocking the boggart from assuming the boy's worst in how the shapeshifter morphed into an image of the full moon, Aurora dropped her head. Her being their was the reason he didn't want the students to acknowledge what his greatest fear was.

"Riddikulus!" he cried. The circular shape of the moon blew into a yellow ballon. Zipping around the classroom as it lost its air, the boggart flew back towards the armoire as Remus opened the door, shutting the creature inside once more. "Right, sorry about that. Sorry…" Remus was struggling to find the words. Not wanting to place Harry on the spot, he still needed to explain having stepped forth, prodding his own fear.

"Sometimes," Aurora interjected, all eyes cast upon her. Stepping towards the poor, she grasped his shoulder, tightening for support. "A boggarts certain shape can initiate the abilities of what it transforms into. Dementors, as you will learn, are deadly creatures and you will come to find out why they are feared so."

Quickly playing off her words, Remus agreed. "Professor Warrington is correct. I must apologize Harry, for stepping in, but my first duty besides teaching my students is to protect them."

Harry was lost, still processing why he couldn't be part of the class as the others were. "It's alright professor, I understand."

"Ah, good, good. Well then! That'll be the end of the lesson today - "

"Can we see your boggart, Professor Warrington?" One students asked from the back. The rest of the class seemed to be in agreement, others asking the same question.

Shocked by their asking, she shrugged her shoulders. Aurora, too, had been curious what her boggart would be, as it had been some time since she encountered one. It couldn't still be that, could it? There's no bloody way, she thought. "I…I don't see the problem with it. Professor Lupin, it's your class."

Considering the request, he accepted. "If the students would like another demonstration, I see no harm." Waving towards the correct position, he stepped off towards the side. "If you would, Aurora." Taking the position, she held her wand, nodding once to state she was ready. Without counting as he had for the students, Remus waved his wand, the armoire door opening for the last time. Just as Neville's boggart had, Aurora's was slow to come out. When an outstretched hand pushed the door open from the inside, gasps echoed from behind the witch, one of which, was from her own mouth.

Bewildered and frightened, out walked an exact copy of Mark, her abusive father.

The man had been tall, slightly more so than Severus, with a clean-cut hairstyle upon his head. From what Aurora could recall, her father had the perfectly family-man persona outside of her and her mother, while hiding the abusive arsehole he truly was. Murmuring echoed in the witches ears, wondering what fear this was; if only they knew.

Exiting the wardrobe, Mark snarled at Aurora, a broken bottle in one hand, whilst the other curled tightly into a fist, the same one she was accustomed to as a young girl. "Well, well, what do we have here? If it ain't my fucking daughter."

"…no," was all Aurora could say. Completely forgetting this was just an illusion, her arms fell in defeat.

"Oh yes. Missed me?" Raising the broken bottle, it was then she realized it was covered it in blood; her blood. "We've had good times with this toy; do you need a reminder?" She kept her lips closed. "Answer me, you dumb bitch! What'd'ya have to say about yourself?! Bloody hell, having you was such a bloody mistake. You're nothing but rubbish. Say something!" Raising the bottle higher, he stepped closer, Aurora though surprisingly held her ground. "Wha', too scared of me hurting you again? You bloody deserved it! Every fucking blow, every single scar I left is only a reminder that you were never wanted!"

"AURORA!"

Her name sinking into her ears, the woman snapped. Raising her wand, she yelled, "Riddikulus!" The boggart-turned-father transformed for the last time into several tiny kittens, all fighting over a small ball of yarn before bouncing off into the wardrobe for good. When it was gone, everyone remained silent, except for the ragged breathing of their female instructor.

Clapping his hands, Remus tried to gain the students attention. "Alright, that's the end of the lesson for today! Everyone please grab your belongings and head to an early lunch." They were murmuring again, though Aurora couldn't recall what was being said. Caught between the reinforced fear and the embarrassment, she swiftly left the room, the door slamming behind as she ran out, assuming full well the students would gossip and spread what they saw. If she ran into something, she quickly apologized; if she tripped, Aurora picked herself right up and carried on. Moving towards the dungeons, the woman didn't stop, not until she was in the safety of her bedroom, cowering beneath the confines of numerous blankets to keep her safe.

Back in the classroom, Remus stayed behind, long after his students left as he moved the furniture to its original position. The wizard hadn't known of Aurora's boggart, for he would never had asked his friend to participate if he knew she would succumb to the terror's of her past. Even when they were students all those years ago, Remus knew of her father, the way he abused and treated her. For the longest time he tried to disbelieve any father could treat their own daughter in such a way, yet over time, it became clear Aurora's past was one she still struggled with moving on from.

Hmmm…maybe this is why she and Severus are well-matched, he thought.

Taking action, Remus locked his classroom door, heading towards the Great Hall as lunch had just started. Hoping the individual in question was there, the new professor confirmed his suspicions as he beelined right up to the Potions Master: Aurora was not amongst the table. Maneuvering around the table, he stopped beside the black-haired wizard whose head tilted ever-so slightly.

"Severus, could I possibly borrow you for a moment?"

"You can speak now or wait until I have finished my meal."

Lowering his voice, Remus quickly grew annoyed. "No, this requires your attention in private. This is about Aurora." Movements halting, Severus gently laid his utensils down onto his plate, following the wizard through the hall until they were outside the great doors. Hiding within the shadow, Severus waited, not sure what was needed at this exact moment, nor what would cause the man to speak to him so about Aurora, of all possible topics.

"Severus, you haven't seen Aurora, have you?"

"What's this about, Remus?" Voice tinged with annoyance, the wizard narrowed his eyes. "Why're you suddenly interesting in Aurora?"

"Good gracious, no, I think she needs you. I asked her to assist with my lesson today as we were learning about boggarts when the class wanted to see Aurora demonstrate. Had I known…I would never, never have asked for her to help."

Waving a hand for silence, Severus growled. "What happened?"

"Aurora's boggart was her father, Severus. The damn thing swore at her, in front of all the students. She took care of it before leaving, but I fear for her to be alone."

Eyes seared shut, the Potions Master; he could only imagine what Aurora had gone through. Gritting his teeth, the wizard bit his words, knowing full well it wouldn't do well to place any blame on Remus. It wasn't his fault. Still, Severus felt he needed someone to blame. "Let me take care of it from here." Not giving his colleague a chance to say anything, the wizard turned briskly, cloak billowing behind him with quick steps, nearly jogging down the stairs towards the dungeon.

Walking through the portrait, the wizard knew she wouldn't be in the front room. Throwing his cloak over the chair, slowly turning the bedroom knob, not sure if Aurora was asleep or not. To his somewhat surprise, she was wrapped in her blanket, her head the only part visible.

He called out her name, not sure what to do in such a situation. Had it been him, Severus would've remembered it was a boggart, used the spell and been on his merry way. Not even giving a second thought that his biggest fear was his father; even though it wasn't, quite the opposite in fact. Regardless, Severus knew Aurora was conflicted on the topic of her father. Her silence caused for slight concern, her voiced her name once more. "Aurora?"

"Yes…Severus?" She acknowledged him, but the man had to wonder what she was thinking. Taking his seat beside her, he tried to pry the blanket from her frame, except her vice grip wouldn't allow him to remove it.

"I heard from Lupin about what happened in the classroom."

"Ok."

She payed no attention, merely staring across the room towards nothing in particular. What was even stranger was how Sapphire and Merlin weren't curled next to their mother; instead, they were occupied at the end of the bed. It was extremely rare for the creatures to not be beside Aurora, which only confirmed his witch was distraught by her boggart. Nevertheless, possibly the fact she was still afraid of her father, after all these years.

Pulling away the blanket upon her head, Severus wasn't stopped as the makeshift hood fell to her shoulders, revealing her messy bun and tear-stained cheeks. "Aurora…" he whispered, reaching out to brush the tears away. Yet when his skin met hers, the woman retracted, flinging herself away from his touch.

"Don't…don't hurt me," she cried, never meeting his face.

"No, I won't hurt you."

"Yes you will, yes you will!" Shoving her fists against his chest, Aurora moved to stand from the bed. Feet caught in the blanket, her body fell to the ground, landing with a hard thump as she refused to move, simply laying in a jumbled mess. Jumping over the bed, Severus knelt to her side. She tried to retract her face as he cupped her cheek, holding her firm until he raised her head to meet his eyes.

"No," he said adamantly. "I will not hurt you…What you saw today was just a boggart; your father cannot cause you any more harm." Nuzzling into his hand, Severus took note as a positive sign. Maneuvering her head into his lap, the wizard stroked Aurora's hair. He had no idea she was still tormented by her father, but then again, maybe she didn't even know.

"…he said I was never wanted. I'm an unwanted child and a mudblood," she whispered. "W-Who would want me…"

Contemplating his words, Severus opened then close his lips several times. If the situation was reversed, Aurora would have no trouble soothing his mind. The woman always knew what to say and the correct moment when it should be said. If anything, Severus assumed he might have learned something from her; apparently not.

"I…I do." Inhaling deeply, Severus knew this was the moment he should share, words he'd never spoken aloud. "There's nothing I can say, Aurora. You have always been…so unbelievably strong, living your life while carrying the scars you bear. Whereas I…I can't even face my demons head on like you." Swallowing thickly, the wizard shook, limbs vibrating with fear. "Your son of a bitch father couldn't see the gift he had. He's gone and I'm here, so please…please…" This is whaat his boggart would be, exactly what she was claiming: that Aurora would say she never wanted him.

The mere thought tore his heart asunder.

"…you're always wanted. I can't…picture my life without you, anymore. Let me be the man who loves you, the only one who desires you."

A hand cupped his cheek. Peering downward, he caught her lovely blue orbs, glistening with fear and confusion. "Sev…I didn't think…I still feared that man."

"It's alright," he soothed, still runnings his fingers through her hair.

"No, it's not," her voice squeaked. Crying out, she tensed in Severus' arms as he suddenly grasped underneath her legs, standing to set her on the edge of their bed. Kneeling at her feet, the man held her face in place, keeping her attention on him.

"Aurora…is it your father you still fear…or me?"

She gasped, mouth slightly open as she moved her gaze away. "Why, why would you…?"

"Because I'm the one hurt you earlier this year. So I'll ask you again: are you sure it's your father you're still afraid of, or being hurt in general?"

"I-I…" Growing quiet, Aurora was lost for words. She hadn't even realized how true Severus' words were until they were out in the open. Crumbling into the man she loved, her resolve broke, the barrier blocking her awareness from accepting the true horror from her mind. It wasn't necessarily her father, more so the aftermath of being afflicted with pain; the constant worry she was never enough to be loved. Never enough to be wanted. "You want me?" she asked suddenly.

Laying his lips upon her head, the Potion Masters hands gripped tighter against her chin. "Of course I want you, my little minx. Give me everything you've got Aurora, I'm never letting you go. Why wouldn't I want you in my life?"

"Because…" Giving in, she threw her arms around the man, crushing him as she wept some more. "I'm scared to be all alone and not wanted! If my father didn't want me who would wan - mmph!"

Silencing her pathetic reason with his lips, Severus kept her there. Trying to pry herself away, Aurora knew it was futile to even try; she could endlessly kiss this man til the day she died. Their lips disconnected to seen as Severus was the one to pull away, taking hold of her neck to place their noses against each other, eyes peering into the others soul.

"I do," Severus growled menacingly. "You know I want you, Aurora, in all shapes and forms. Why can't you get that through your thick skull?" When she didn't reply, the wizard sighed. Throughout the summer, the two discussed over and over his transgressions earlier in the year. They'd talk, kiss, converse some more then fall into each other's arms wherever they were positioned within the house. Now, Severus wasn't too sure if they had thoroughly discussed exactly what they experienced; more importantly, how it affected Aurora in the long run. "Aurora…allow me to ask again: what are you truly afraid of?"

"You," her answer was quick. "I'm afraid you'll cast me aside, finally realizing I'm not everything you see me as, that I'm not worth it."

"Aurora…Where did all this come from so suddenly?"

Hair bouncing as she shook her head. "It's always been there, even before your birthday. I just…people I'm close to have always left me, through their own volition or death. Who am I to say you won't do the same?"

"Because I've said so, numerous times in the last five minutes. Aurora-Nyx Warrington, look at me - no, actually look at me!" Blue stared straight at him. "All these years, I've loved you, Aurora. There wasn't anything else I wanted more than for you to notice me, acknowledge my existence; now that you have, I would never give that up. I was a bloody idiot for what I did to you, and have vowed never to do that again. Why don't you trust me…?"

"I trust you Severus, I'm just…I'm scared," her whisper echoed in his ears.

"It's ok to be scared," he whispered back. "I'm…I'm scared too."

Those words caught her attention, remembering the remark Remus stated earlier. "Severus Snape; you, scared?"

"Aurora, your boggart manifested as your father since he was the first person to ever hurt you then leave; now you're scared I'll do the same. For me, it's the same as yours. I'm terrified you'll turn around and say you've never wanted me and leave for someone else."

The woman's chuckle lifted Severus' head. Covering her mouth, she still couldn't refrain from the adorable noise from escaping past her lips. "Oh geez…we're seriously two peas in a pod, aren't we?"

Admiring her face, the wizard tenderly stroked her cheek. "That we are, my little minx."

Lifting the corners of her lips slightly, Aurora swiped at her eyes, clearing the blurriness of any tears still remaining. "Good gracious…what the hell has happened to me today, I'm so sorry." Leaning forward to peck his nose, she giggled when Severus constricted his face. "I really like this mushy side of yours, Sev."

"Tch…yeah well, the love of my life was feeling a little out of character, so I had to do something to get her to see straight."

"I think it worked," she offered, taking his hand in hers.

When she remained silent, Severus rubbed his thumb along her bottom lip. "You're mine forever; I hope you know that."

"As are you, I wouldn't want it any other way."

Leaving his lips on her forehead, Severus knew this wasn't the end. Aurora had always been one to trust others, never once doubt their words until proven wrong; she needed physical proof the Potions Master was not going to be like her father, or commit another sin as he had done earlier in the year.

"We will work through this, Aurora. We will heal each other and remain side-by-side, that I promise you."

As the words left his lips, Severus knew they were true, and he knew one way for Aurora to believe he truly wanted her in his life, until death bid them part.

~ oOo ~

I swear, I worked on the damn ending forever, but I just could not connect the dots.

Anyways, has anyone played the new Final Fantasy VII: Remake?! What're your opinions? Likes, dislikes? I wanna hear! Also, if you've seen or read the FFVII story I have, keep your eyes open; I'm revamping the story and reposting it with better content, grammar, all the special works.

Until next time, love ya!

Chocobocolina