Chapter Three: Cinnamon Girl

"All the pills that you take
Violet, blue, green, red to keep me at arm's length don't work
You try to push me out
But I just find my way back in
Violet, blue, green, red to keep me out
I win"

'Dear Silly Selini,

To hear from you has brought a light into my life that I never thought would come back. Like a lighthouse during a hurricane, I hope you found this letter in a similar fashion. The paper smells like you; are you still using that muggle perfume you always carried around? It brings back so many memories of you, a few worth mentioning only face to face.

I can't write exactly what I want to say to you, or about anything in the past in case this letter is intercepted. Just know we'll see each other one day soon, hopefully before we know it we'll be back to our same old ways.

To hear your voice once again would heal the parts of me I cannot express on this paper.

Your boss told me you'll finally get to meet our Godson. Assuming you'll be more than ready to tell him how you're connected to him, give your next letter to him and don't wait to write back. Use my nickname, Snuffles, too.

Love, despite your temper,

Snuffles.

P.S. I'm still your favorite lover, right?'

I couldn't have rolled my eyes any harder on the account that they'd detach and roll out of my head. I rubbed my forehead with my free hand and shook my head. The classic combination of ruffling my feathers in both irritation and humorous ways left me frustrated with how I'd reply, but comforted knowing that Sirius was still himself even after such a grim fate of spending more than a decade locked up. That even the horrid conditions I'm sure he was subjected to didn't fragment him, rendering him lost.

"Swine…" I muttered after reading Sirius's letter. I chuckled at his use of that horrid nickname and hit on me twice in one letter. It wasn't the worst thing to hear if I were being honest; after cutting him off once he was falsely accused of murder it could've easily been dubbed as the biggest betrayal of my life. I had spent so long being angry with what happened that night. It never made sense to me the story that came out, but how was I to argue the events when Peter Pettigrew's stubby little finger was found? Maybe the grief wouldn't let me figure things out, and maybe I had given up trying to defend Sirius in order to move on in any way I could. When I found out about Sirius's innocence the lividity I once had changed into guilt. Sirius could never truly do such a thing, yet that repulsive little rat of a man Peter was too scared to protect his friends, and would stoop so low as to betray those he claimed to care about to save his hide.

I looked at the letter and re-read it once more while imagining his voice once again. He must've sounded more mature in his voice, but by how much? I wondered how he looked as I stared at the letter. The years and Azkaban couldn't have taken away his devil-may-care looks, could it? Or did it crumble him making Sirius unrecognizable?

Thoughts of how much he changed, or how much he hadn't, amused me to see how he still couldn't help his flirtatious ways towards me. We truly couldn't have been worse for each other, but our attraction and chemistry dictated a lot of our decisions in our relationship. Two years of back-and-forth arguing can be exhausting to anyone, and it was, but at the same time, I thought that's just how people were in relationships. That when the good times happened it made up for the bad, until it was too much anymore. To deny that his charming advances gave me the butterflies when I was young would be a bold-faced lie. Now, while it wasn't anything like it used to be the familiarity stirred something inside. I caught myself smiling at his words before scrunching my nose in aversion. Regardless of his charm, he would have an ear (eye) full of what I thought of that.

I laid the letter down on my desk and went to retrieve my perfume. It was a nice touch to add to letters in my opinion; a reminder of who I was other than my handwriting. It was a muggle perfume from a high-end luxury brand, though when you want something, and since I was a witch, you found ways of getting what you wanted for cheap or even free. Returning to my desk I ripped a piece of parchment off and gave two sprits of the perfume, waving to let it dry before setting it down. Grabbing my quill from the ink well I began to write.

'Dear Snuffle-Wuffle-Dumplington,

To know you haven't changed one bit as I read your letter found me like a bug flying into the lighthouse, disoriented and wondering what direction you think it was headed in. Seeing you face to face is great in theory, but as you well know we seem to have a harder time remaining around each other for anything beneficial to happen. You seem to have forgotten my real name, but under these circumstances, you better use that shitty little nickname sparingly.

I stopped writing for a moment and pondered my next words. I didn't want the whole letter to center on his perversions, or even my aggrevations with him. It had been after all thirteen years since we had an actual conversation. I dipped my quill once more before continuing.

Regardless, I'm glad to see your humor is still intact. It does heal something in me to hear from you, and I look forward to seeing you in person. Don't you dare repeat this to anyone, or take this out of context like I know you want to, but it would be nice to give you a proper hug and see your face after so many years. It seems your sense of smell is still on point. It should last a while on paper so, feel free to… sniff, if you must.

I'll give the Godson the letter; he was so happy to hear about the news. Wait till he realizes what kind of mess we are together. Do you think he'll want to trade us in when he does?

Love, aggressively yet truly,

Silly Selini

P.S. Clearly I'm still your favorite.'

A smug smirk crossed my lips as I re-read my writing before waving the paper lightly to dry the ink quicker before folding it up, placing it in an envelope, and sealing it. I had the fourth years to teach first thing in the morning before the Beauxbatons and Durmstrangs. I'd have the perfect opportunity to give this to Harry to get it sent off at Sirius's behest. I just needed to get him away to give it to him without anyone noticing, but it shouldn't be a problem. I was pulled from my thoughts with a yawn and I realized how tired I was.

After today's events, I was left more exhausted than normal and hopefully will get a decent amount of sleep. Leaving the letter sealed on my personal desk I got up and stretched then headed toward my bed to slip between the cover and sheets. It wasn't going to take much for me to fall asleep, and as I flicked my hand to extinguish the candle lights within the room I shimmed to get in a preferred sleeping position. My thoughts drifted to Harry welcoming my presence in his life, Sirius and his innuendos that still left me feeling strange, Elowyn's relief after getting her headphones back, and her determination to become the best potions student that Severus had out of spite…

I was momentarily brought out of my slumbering thoughts remembering how the dinner feast went. I had about thirty minutes or so after speaking with Harry and Dumbledore before I needed to go to the Great Hall. I was able to freshen up, say a silent prayer to Lily thanking her for her guidance with Harry, and contemplated whether to read Sirius' letter or wait till later and give it proper attention. After finishing up there and heading to the Great Hall I had noticed even from so far away that the seating arrangement could've been an issue.

Aurora said she would save me a seat if she got there early enough, and by the likes of how all the other teachers had sat in nearly their identical seating the night before, she was seated at the end where Severus was located as well. The only difference this time was that she took the seat directly next to him, leaving me an empty chair next to her and Professor Sinistra. I couldn't help but smile at her; of course, she'd go out of her way to make me comfortable, and wondered if she trying to protect the rest of the staff and school from a potentially upsetting mealtime. Dinner wasn't eventful, just a few sneaking looks to Aurora about the obvious change she made. It was insignificant but it was also entertaining.

The thought of Severus and what Dumbledore had spoken about him interrupted this thought and played on repeat as I fell more and more into the embrace of sleep. Severus needed someone to push him, kind of like how Aurora did for me. If that is the case, then I'd have to take what I know in order to do it. He was like a feral cat that wouldn't come to you but could be enticed with food. Although, the cat may have been easier to discern what they wanted rather than what Severus could want with me. That is if I wanted to indulge in this, of course. It was obvious that Dumbledore was pushing for me to warm up to Severus, to bring this side of him out that I (apparently) have been the one, if not, the only person to do so.

Thoughts of amending our friendship lulled me to sleep, dreams of being close to him again as adults played around my mind as I slept.

)))(((

My classroom was large enough to push back the desks to the wall which allowed the students around the sides to create a circle with a wide-open space in the middle. This class would mostly consist of physical practices and tests, but of course, there would be times when it relied on their knowledge to make sure they kept up with written exams. The students were speaking amongst themselves before I entered the room from my private office with Aurora trailing out behind me. The wooden door shut abruptly causing the once lively chatter to cease immediately.

"Welcome," I projected my voice amongst the class as I walked closer to the uncertain-looking group of teens. I stood at the front; hands clasped behind my back where Aurora joined me at the side. I surveyed those around me, catching the sights of alarmed, thrilled, disinterested, and curious fourth-years who looked back at me. A small grin on my face widened when I spotted Elowyn, headphones hanging around her neck rather than on her head, standing with the bushy-haired girl I'd come to find out was named Hermione Granger. She looked rather adorable with her button nose and big brown eyes. She was standing with Harry and the redhead boy named Ron Weasley A boy with freckles galore and bright blue eyes. Elowyn's green robes stood out more against the crowd of Gryffindors and Hufflepluffs on my right.

We had pushed for her to explore other classes in the past, but Elowyn argued it was better for her to keep up with the practice, and that other subjects didn't interest her enough to change that. We had spoilt her by continuing to allow this, but I must admit it wasn't much of a fight to have her reconsider.

"To your first, and most challenging, lesson of Wandless Magic. For those who don't know me, I'm Professor Thorne, and this is my assistant Professor Ramsey." I motioned to my left and Aurora gave a warm smile with a small wave.

I caught the sight of a few confused students after my introduction which gave me the cue to continue.

"I say that as this will potentially be your hardest class. You see, we're taking everything you've learned as instinctual by using a wand, all of that knowledge… and throwing it away in this class." I gestured for dramatics while concentrating on their faces. "You're at your prime right now to be able to get the most successful results for this, and potentially have another skill set of magic to work with that you never thought would be possible."

I stepped forward slowly coming in little by little to the middle. "You'll not only learn how to use this untapped energy for simple spells to complex and defensive spells but also potentially learn a few abilities that are unique to you. Though very rare, it's a possibility. Rest assured though that this will not come easily. I will push you till you're frustrated, and annoyed with me. You can very well hate me, that's quite fine with me." A sly smile took over as I turned to stare at them all, pacing around the middle to circle them before standing in Aurora's direction, bringing my hands to rest in front of myself. "However, if you prove to have an aptitude for this, you'll be able to master this unique art. Any questions?"

"Yeah!" A boy that was now to my right adorned in Slytherin robes spoke up brazenly. He stepped forward, the stark bright blonde hair made him stand out against the rest of his classmates. He walked between the two stout-looking boys who were also in Slytherin; cocky energy radiated from him as he folded his arms, looking at me with inferiority. "What exactly can we do? I mean, if we already have a wand this class is useless."

A few snickers from the group behind him, and even some from the room scattered around me. My smile grew to a fake pleasant one, raising an eyebrow at his words.

"A wonderful, and very important question, Mr…?"

"Malfoy, Draco Malfoy." He answered, the boastful air was thick and nauseating to me. I remembered a classmate named Lucius rather well, as he was one of the very few people Severus would socialize with who was a few years older than we were in school. This child carried the same arrogance as Lucius did, which only disgusted me that he ended up breeding in the first place.

"Ah, Mr. Malfoy… I believe I remember your father from his time at Hogwarts. Lucius, yes? We were in the same house." I took a step forward, feigning delight at his words. This gave him the false hope of turning his nose up, nodding at my reaction, and turning to laugh with his friends behind him. A Slytherin's connection can go far, but unlike the rest of them, I based worthiness on something other than social status.

"Wonderful to know the next generation of Malfoys could join us today. Why don't you help me in showing just what this ability can do for us?" I tilted my head and looked at his astonished expression before chuckling and looking back once again to his friends as he spoke.

"I don't exactly know what I'm doing—Professor." He added quickly, seeming to show some respect and not catching on at all to my act.

"Oh no, I don't expect you to be using wandless magic. I was thinking more so of showing off an example. You may use your wand in this, Draco." I assured him, that the sickly-sweet manner I displayed was well practiced when I had students who thought this subject was beneath them. It was my favorite thing to do to prove them wrong.

"Yeah, I don't mind being of help, Professor. Whatever you need." His smug expression beamed across his pale face.

"So ready to participate, better than the last few classes I had yesterday. Draw your wand and stand over here, please." I gestured to behind me, the area closest to the door where the students waned in completing their circle. The boy strutted toward the spot I gestured while drawing out his wand. Completely ignorant of the lesson I was about to teach him.

"Let's see… Well, I don't think I want to do this myself, so how about… Elowyn," I looked toward her direction to see she was watching me with excitement, the ghost of a smile trying to break on her lips. There was a glint in her eyes as she must've caught on to what I was planning considering she's seen this "example" done before. "Since you have the most experience, and I would find it unfair to demonstrate to a student, why don't you take a step forward and show Mr. Malfoy exactly what we're teaching here?"

All eyes were on Elowyn but she was able to focus solely on me. Her expression dropped a little, her way of sticking to the act. "I mean… I would if it was at least a challenge."

Her comment earned quite a few snickers and giggles from her side mostly, but even a few on the opposite side had snickered. Though she kept her face as stoic as possible. A scoff came from Draco that caught her attention as his face held fleer. "I'll have you know I'll have no problem facing a girl like you." He spat.

I raised my eyebrow once again at his comment turning to look at Elowyn who turned back to me. I knew she wouldn't turn away the chance now. "Fine." She dropped her school bag to the ground and took off her black robe leaving only her school uniform. Hermione was kind enough to offer to hold it before Elowyn approached to stand in front of me, headphones being placed on her head with one side uncovered to continue to hear me.

"Now, I want each of you to try and disarm each other only. Nothing petty, or harmful. Is that understood?" I spoke firmly looking between the two as I did so.

"Where's her wand?" Draco called out as he scanned Elowyns figure. "How am I supposed to disarm her if she doesn't pull out her wand?"

"I don't need one," Elowyn answered plainly as her eyes concentrated on Draco. Several whispers and acknowledgments were spoken around the room at this bizarre revelation. Aurora gently hushed them down to bring them back to attention.

"Come up with something, Mr. Malfoy. I know Lucius would be able to figure it out, so you should do just the same." I replied with another deceiving smile, though this time it didn't do much to resolve the Malfoy boys' confusion and growing frustration.

"On my count, you'll commence and remember you're only disarming." I took my place behind Elowyn, lacing my fingers together and holding them in front. "One… Two… Three!"

"Expelliarmus!" Draco shot out quicker than the snake he represented from his house. Elowyn was even quicker as her electric violet energy flared in her hand, raising it with a swift whipping motion that splashed against his spell. It didn't even come close to hitting her. The sound of the spells colliding made a hissing sound as it sizzled out of sight. The amazement swept the students who were unable to contain themselves. This only infuriated him further, Draco sent another blast toward her, Elowyn repeating the same motion with her hand.

"Stupefy!" Draco called this time taking a step toward her. This time she blocked him again with the swirling energy as she sent back her own with only seconds to block her counterattack. Elowyn took two steps forward. Draco staggered back from the impact of the block. His eyes were wide with a mixture of panic and anger when he sent another stupefy spell her way but this time was able to capture the spell with her energy.

It encapsulated the magic within the swirl of purple energy creating a glowing orb. The orb hovered for a moment before Elowyn waved her arm and sent it straight into Draco's arm. It collided with him, sending him toppling backward with his wand flying into the air. When his body dropped, he groaned while holding his arm, face twisted in a dramatized way of showing pain.

"Why is he acting like that? Shouldn't have hurt him that bad." Elowyn asked while turning her head to the side to study him. This comment must've cured Draco of his discomfort before rolling to the side and stumbled to stand up, eyes wild with fury at his opponent. I stepped in front of Elowyn to take up his view, a satisfied smile couldn't be contained on my face as his eyes widened remembering where he was.

"That," I started slowly walking up to him, my hand extending out with its own scarlet glow to levitate Draco's wand back to him. He took it hastily but didn't look away from me as I closed in on him. "Is why we're here. You lose your wand and you may consider yourself in a lot of trouble, or dead. This isn't limited to just leisure exercises. Consider this class a sublet of Defense Against the Dark Arts if you have to understand the importance of it. Otherwise, if you can't conjure anything at all, you won't have to worry about the usefulness of this class." My tone had become more serious, the fake smile I had before dropping to a look of rigid expression. "Maybe you'll have a little more respect for this class once you try your hand at it. Five points from Slytherin for… failing to live up to expectations." A smirk found its way on my lips once more as his face started to turn blotchy from the red rising to his cheeks.

I instructed both of them to return to their respective areas and they did so in silence, but clearly for two different reasons. I turned back to look at the majority of the class who didn't dare to speak after seeing the look on my face.

"This isn't a fun-for-all type of class. You'll either pick up on this ability within two weeks and remain in class to learn more strenuous ways of energy manipulation, or you will be elected to another class if you can't. Don't fret though; Professor Ramsey and I have seen abilities appear later on after being introduced to the concept. There is always next year if you're lucky. For the time being, I want you to pair off, and we'll begin the first lesson of the day."

The students seemed to hesitate for a moment with a few looks between themselves, I moved out of the circle to stand by Aurora who took the lead. "Space out everyone, we'll be doing an exercise with your wands first. Professor Thorne and I will walk around the room to observe everyone and help them. Elowyn," Aurora stopped to look at Elowyn who stood next to Hermione. "Since you have a bit of an advantage you can help whoever your partner is, okay?" Aurora's sunnier disposition compared to mine was a stark difference that the students noticed immediately. Elowyn nodded before looking back to Hermione with a smile.

Aurora instructed the students for the first part of the lesson. She explained this part was focused on getting used to feeling the energy through the wand, to become familiar with how it feels to call upon it and command it. Most of the students were just throwing spells back and forth at each other, being careful not to hit their partner with whatever spell they sent out, which was mostly disarming went on for about twenty minutes before Aurora stopped them and called attention to herself.

"As expected you all were doing just fine, so let's try the harder part. I want you to concentrate on that feeling you experienced and push it through your fingertips. Imagining your pointer and middle finger as your wand we want you to build up the energy, and eventually release it. Take your time, do what you can, and see where it takes you."

This time I started making my rounds to each pair to study, and remedy, what they were doing. A few students seemed unable to comprehend how to follow the instructions. Lavender Brown looked to be frustrated with this idea, flinging her two fingers at her partner, Parvati Patil. I stopped her, placing a hand on her shoulder while directing her that a steady and clear point would work better. She seemed apprehensive at first but nodded otherwise, following the instruction.

A Ravenclaw boy, Michael Corner, looked like he was concentrating so hard that the blood vessels in his temple would burst. I eased him to not force it, but flow the way his wand would. This didn't seem to ease his forcefulness but at least he was trying to calm himself. Another Ravenclaw Girl, Padma Patil had the correct form and while her partner was encouraging, was almost too distracted by their giggling of how silly they felt.

Hannah Abbot and Susan Bones of Hufflepuff didn't seem to be giving much effort until I came around, my stoney expression kicking them into gear to try (or act) like they were trying something. The Slytherins didn't seem to care for me when I walked by, however, at that moment I caught the sight of a jade green energy spark from the fingers of a young sandy blonde-haired girl, Daphne Greengrass. I walked up next to her with a satisfied smile.

"Very good, Miss Greengrass. Do the same thing again, this time I want you to command the energy to build in the tips of your fingers. Let's see if we get more of a show this time." I stood next to her as she nodded, her partner Pansy Parkinson looked annoyed at the progress that she wasn't showing with her arms folded in front of her. Daphne closed her eyes and breathed in deeply before exhaling. The same jade green sparks appeared once again, building up a few more that crackled out until the smallest ember of solid energy appeared. It held for just a moment, her hand shaking slightly from the strain before flickering out.

"Congratulations Miss Greengrass, you've just earned a permanent spot in my class. Spend some time helping your partner." I commended her. She looked at me with triumph and nodded once more before walking to Pansy. I made my rounds and found Ron Weasley with slumped shoulders.

"Who am I kidding, Harry? If Neville can do it then I should too and look at me. Nothing!" I chuckled from behind which alerted him to my presence, whirling to look at me with a startled expression.

"Don't worry about Mr. Longbottom," I motioned to the Gryffindor boy who was now emitting a bright yellow from his fingertips, Aurora excitedly congratulated the boy whose awed expression was priceless. "You have two weeks to test this out, not to mention a few more years Mr. Weasley. Let me help you."

Ron's face started to match the red in his hair as he looked up at me, bashful for the offer of assistance. I worked with him to correct his stance and explained more of what he needed to concentrate on. He seemed to calm himself enough that I swore I saw something flicker ever so slightly from the tips of his fingers. It was so brief that I wasn't sure if it was my mind playing tricks on me. "Keep it up, Mr. Weasley. I think I saw something there." I patted his shoulder as I started to walk away, passing Harry and giving him an encouraging wink.

"You did it!" I heard Elowyns outburst and looked to see her excited face fixed on Hermione Granger's fingers glowing in a pale violet that produced a full bulb. Hermione looked more relieved at her ability showing and after another second the bulb completely faded away. She smiled brightly at Elowyn who clapped a few times and bounced a bit at her new friend's advancement. The sight of Elowyn gaining a friend was just as new as it was amazing, I couldn't stop my full smile.

By the end of the lesson, I had four students in total who displayed their abilities, including Draco Malfoy whose energy emitted a strawberry-red energy that was much brighter than the scarlet color I produced. It seems like his determination to make up for his embarrassing episode proved beneficial for him. Aurora congratulated him but had little effect on him since his ego had been boosted by the Slytherin group around him.

I gathered the students around me to speak to them before they were dismissed.

"Don't be discouraged if you weren't able to do anything today. You have two weeks to show something, so allow yourself time to practice and perfect this. There will be plenty more of you before the end of those two weeks who will show the ability. I have full faith in that." I gave a small smile to try and encourage the mixed bag of expressions on the students' expressions. At that moment the booming sound of the school bell rang to end the lesson. I ushered the rest of them out of the class but noticed that Elowyn, Hermione, Ron, and Harry hung back.

"How did you all feel about today's lesson?" Aurora questioned while walking up to us, a hopeful smile on her face as she held her hands in front of her.

"It was incredible! I can't believe how that magic felt!" Hermione exclaimed while looking between Aurora and Elowyn who also sported her own excited expression.

"You weren't kidding when you said it was going to be hard." Harry pipped up while running a hand through his already messy black hair. "Thought Ron was going to walk out in the middle of the lesson." He teased his friend who looked sorely defeated at his lack of advancement.

"How'd you do it, Hermione? I mean… I thought I was doing everything I could! 'Course you'd get it right on the first lesson…" He looked away from his friends, lips pursed in a pout as he seethed.

"Don't discourage yourself, Mr. Weasley," Aurora assured a look of sympathy on her face. "It takes a lot to try and kick off. Some people have better luck on the first try, but if it helps, I normally just use my wand and only use this ability when I have to. It took me forever to get a reign on it." Though she didn't explain the extent of it, it must've been a lot for her to reach out to him like that with something personal.

The look in his eyes suggested that Ron took these words to heart, nodding but the look of disappointment still held in his frown.

"And I did notice something when you really put your all to it, so neither you nor Harry should give up just yet," I added while looking between the two.

"It would've been better heading to potions knowing I got it right though…At least we got to watch Malfoy get his thanks to Elowyn." He mumbled reply perked up considerably at the mention of the young Slytherin boy. The fourth years all agreed and laughed at the mention of it.

"He won't forget that, Elowyn," Hemione warned with an expression showing concern. "He might try to get even with you, or even Pansy Parkinson might take it in her hands."

"If they're smart they'll remember today and think twice." Elowyn shrugged with indifference on her face.

"I can't believe you don't need a wand; you only use your magic energy when you use spells?" Harry questioned. Elowyn nodded, a smirk appearing on her lips.

"We better go before we're late or else Snape might take off more points than we can spare." Hermione reminded them. I caught the look of disgust in Elowyns face, and the annoyance on Harry and Ron's faces. It occurred to me I had almost forgotten my little assignment that I needed Harry to carry out.

"Before you do, Harry," I stated and dashed to my office to grab the letter and hurry out to see the confused students. "I believe I'm supposed to give this to you to give to… Snuffles." I eyed him and even though he appeared confused it clicked quickly as he took the note. Elowyn looked between the two of us trying to study what the interaction was between us. I'd have to talk with her soon about the recent updates, at least the bare minimum of what she could know.

I hated to set them off to their doom in potions class, but I didn't want them to face any more issues than they had yesterday. After seeing them off and the door closed behind them, Elowyn waved one last time. I noticed that a few Beauxbaton students started to file in.

"Ready for round two?" Aurora question. I rolled my eyes with a smile and prepared myself for the second period.

)))(((

(October 31st)

Time passed by quicker than I expected here at Hogwarts. It was now the end of October, and much had changed between the first month of school to now. With my class advancing as expected after two weeks had passed, I had plenty from each class remaining scheduled to continue their lessons and plenty of others who did not make the cut. Harry, Ron, and Hermione were able to remain in class after much practicing and pushing them. Ron seemed the most excited that he was able to produce his lively orange color and Harry produced a dazzling gold color. Elowyn was happier to know she wouldn't have to be separated from her new friend group.

Elowyn seemed to have followed her promise of becoming the best potions student that Severus Snape had encountered by going as far as to ask for extra credit homework or even harder assignments. Severus seemed to understand this as a challenge and obliged her requests. Perhaps Severus underestimated just how much Elowyn loved learning about potion making and producing excellent results to proudly give back to him. Granted there were a few assignments she couldn't help but ask for Aurora's input, who also didn't object to assisting her. What Severus didn't know wouldn't irritate him.

I still wasn't sure what to do about my predicament with Severus. So, I did what I knew best and didn't decide on anything at all. I didn't ignore him and in fact would ever so often tell him 'Hello' if I passed him in the halls. At first, I was met with absolutely nothing other than a glance my way as he continued to walk in the opposite direction, but this didn't stop me from continuing. One day at lunch, after glancing in his direction, he walked to sit a few seats down from me since not all of the staff had gathered for lunch just yet.

"Afternoon, Severus." I greeted as casually as I usually did.

"Miss Thorne." It was the first time Severus acknowledged my greeting. I remember that it did throw me off but was no less satisfactory at that moment. I felt it best not to push my luck and carried on speaking with Aurora who was also just as surprised and intrigued by this.

Aurora was caught up to speed with the situation between me and Severus Snape. Granted it was easier after a few alcoholic drinks we had during a weekend we were both finally free from grading homework, and during a much-needed girl's night, I was able to let the story flow for her. Aurora always had animated reactions to life around her, and this story clearly took her through an emotional roller coaster.

"So… you were with one of his arch-nemeses-–" I couldn't help giggling from how ridiculous and accurate that sounded coming from her, or maybe it was the brandy. "-and you and Professor Snape had snuck off to spend time with each other… and made out after trying Fire Whiskey for the first time… and he never spoke to you again after not choosing him?"

I had to iron out the details a little more for her to understand, but it seemed to click to her why things were so complicated with him now. Aurora's compassion didn't go unnoticed either. Her ever-understanding heart shone brightly when I went on a tangent with my emotions pouring out. It wasn't easy to remember my younger years and the pain that erupted after being buried for so long. It felt good to release words and a few tears with someone who wasn't judging me. Even with the unloading of these certain events in my life, and the effects I endured afterward, I held back a lot of how I felt, and only let out what couldn't be stopped. The next day we wouldn't speak of it anymore.

I had received another letter from Sirius that Harry snuck to me. Apparently, a column was published in the Daily Prophet about the newest additions to the Hogwarts staff that included myself, Aurora, and Alastor Moody, whose demeanor toward me and Aurora was unexpectedly more pleasant than I would've believed. Although I do use the word pleasant loosely; he was still as gruff and paranoid as others made him out to be. The article painted us in the usual light of tough teachers, questioning the decisions of Dumbledore once again and the idea of using wandless magic. I didn't read the paper because I found it to be rubbish; no one in their right mind would believe Rita Skeeter and her overly dramatic tall tales, and those who did have the type of discernment that left much to be desired.

Sirius complimented my appearance from the picture they featured and touched on how much I had grown. The undertones, along with a few other choice words, miffed me enough to send a rather sarcastic reply his way. He was lucky I couldn't come through the letter myself and tell him just what I thought about his "ideas of catching up".

Now, here we were with the advancement of the Triwizard Tournament about to begin. Students had submitted their names to the Goblet of Fire over this period of time, and we had waited till this day to have them drawn. All seemed like it was going well, but of course, nothing was meant to go completely fine.

As the champions were chosen from the Goblet, we were all shocked to witness a fourth name being cast out. When Dumbledore announced Harry Potter's name my stomach had dropped, and dread settled over me. It had to be some sort of mistake, but even so, how would the Goblet send out a piece of paper with his name? He wasn't able to pass the age-restricted spell Dumbledore passed, so did he ask someone to put his name in? How he reacted made it seem like his shock was just as warranted as anyone else. There was no way he could've put that in, so who did? The whole school had something to say about it, causing nearly an uproar in this sudden news. Dumbledore would later confront Harry, along with a few teachers (me included) and Barty Crouch who explained his hands were tied. Harry was going to have to compete in the Triwizard Tournament.

At this moment I had been standing in Dumbledore's office with Moody, McGonagall, Severus, and the headmaster. A pregnant silence occupied the room. I had been saying the same thing over, and over since this news came out that I was getting tired of even hearing myself protest anymore.

"This can't go on, Albus." McGonagall broke after a moment of silence. Dumbledore was standing over a basin, the swirling liquid inside of it shimmered and illuminated the concentrated look on Dumbledore's face. "First the Dark Mark and now this?"

I had heard about the fiasco from the Quidditch World Cup. The news was startling and even alarmed Aurora who only knew so much about the first wizarding war from years ago, but by the time I eased her worries (and my own), it had to of been old Death Eaters trying to get a rise out of the public. While I tried my best to alleviate the dangers the incident brought back up to me, I knew something was going wrong in the back of my mind. This incident only added to my suspicions and raised my concerns more.

"Professor Dumbledore," I started once more unable to control myself. "Is there nothing we can do to rectify this? Reverse this magical contract? Harry's just fourteen; there's nothing he's learned in school that can prepare him for this." I voiced and took a few steps forward to stand next to McGonagall. I couldn't conceal my worry, my arm crossed in front of my chest while the other fiddled with the necklace around my neck.

"What do the two of you suggest?" Dumbledore didn't move nor did he look to us as he spoke. The expression on his face was nearly unreadable except it held concentration.

"Put an end to it. Don't let Potter compete!" McGonagall answered as if it were the clearest answer. I felt the same way because it was.

"There has to be a way out of this. I-I mean it can't be so absolute!" I stammered uncharacteristically while taking a step forward. I was practically begging Dumbledore to come up with some alternative rather than admitting defeat and allowing him to compete.

"You heard Barty the rules are clear." He answered with a twinge of exasperation in his voice.

"To Hell with Barty and his rules." I breathed while stiffing the urge to roll my eyes at such a final remark.

"Since when did you accommodate the Ministry?" McGonagall questioned quickly.

"Headmaster," The silky and deep voice of Severus spoke up. I turned to watch him walk forward slowly up to take up the space next to me as he continued to speak. "I, too, find it difficult to believe it's mere coincidence…"

'Finally, maybe we can all get on board and convince him differently.' I thought hopefully to myself.

"However, if we are to truly discover the meaning of these events perhaps, we should… for the time being, let them unfold." He finished, allowing his words to unravel little by little at his wild suggestion.

I scoffed and turned fully to him looking up at him directly. "Are you seriously suggesting doing nothing? As if to use him as bait?!" I exclaimed while he looked down at me. His face was hard to read but I couldn't distinguish anything through my own shock.

"Potter is a boy not a piece of meat!" McGonagall added just as applaud by the idea of offering a child up just to play some game of solving a puzzle. I held my stare at Severus and wondered just exactly what he was getting at. Surly he wouldn't be willing to put a child's life in danger for some petty reason?

"I agree…" Dumbledore spoke in a low tone but forced me to look at him. Hopefully, we had spoken some sense into him. "...with Severus."

A sneer instantly appeared on my face as I looked between the Potions Master and Headmaster as if they had escaped the psych ward from St. Mungos. I couldn't even think of what to say in retaliation to this ridiculous decision.

"Alastor, Maeve, keep an eye on Harry, will you?" Dumbledore prompted.

"I can do that." Was the definite answer from my right as Alator's metal leg clanked against the ground from the few steps he took closer. I shook my head and scoffed at this.

"Of course… Of course, I will." The defeat in my voice couldn't be hidden. This couldn't be the most irrational way of handling Harry's life.

"Don't let him know though," Dumbledore added as he held up his wand to his temple and extracted a long wispy silver piece that glimmered. If it wasn't for the glow of the string I would've mistaken it for a piece of his hair. "He must be anxious as it is… knowing what lies ahead. Then again, we all are…"

With a flick of his wand, the string landed within the basin. McGonagall waved her arms and turned to leave as she had enough of what was enough of what she heard. I couldn't believe it myself and had turned to follow her shortly after, but not after giving Severus a nasty glance before leaving the office.

I was supposed to be the one to make sure his life wasn't going to end up endanger and yet here we were allowing whatever strange and threatening forces to play out at the risk of Harry's life. It was obvious that I'd be watching him like a hawk, but the fact that I had to do it at all was nauseating. To think that one of the more brilliant minds in the wizarding world would allow it was incredulous.

Had it not been for Severus suggesting it then we could've fought back on Barty's words. I swore under my breath and shook my head.

I could only hope we'd get to the bottom of the issue before it actually put Harry's life in jeopardy.

A/N: I hope you can forgive the shortness of this chapter. I genuinely wanted more to come from it, however, this was 1000% a filler chapter unlike the last one which was only /kind of/ a filler. I needed to set the stage for the next one and give an idea of how the other children would pick up on their abilities (yes they'll come in handy later) and also to establish the kind of relationship that Maeve has with Sirius. One chapter at a time it will all fall into place, but I'll admit the next chapter will be actual Maeve/Severus interaction that will continue the plot of their story. I also foresee that the rest of the chapters will deal heavily with them, so expect to see more of them rather than setting up Maeve life at Hogwarts.

Thank you for reading up to this point and being patient; I did say it was a slow-burn story so this is just me upholding my promise (lol)

With much love and thanks,

TJ