Great to see this fast update and so very different in mood from the party-chapters.

I like the slight bit of nervous apprehension that I think you've charged this 'enterprise' with, mentioning the knife, for instance, while Severus didn't even need it with him...

What is this strong pressure he was feeling at the side-along apparition with Gertrude? Could it be the thousand-year wards of Tearmunn island?

I can't help but worry a bit about Snape's safety, like Minerva, hope no dangers await him at the gates upon returning.

Lovely were the brief 'meetings' with Twiskett, Minerva and the Silent Knight, accompanied by a few charming details - Twiskett not expected to enter the loo *smile*.

Although there hangs a sinistre feeling around this meeting with Gertrude, skilfully evoked *smile*, yet I have to tell myself that Snape is in save hands with Gertrude. Unless she would have overlooked a possible danger somewhere. But that seems unlike her, so let me just sit back and anticipate what Severus will be able to do for Gertrude and what it is that she wants to meet him for....oh, another fast update already desperately awaited. LOL.

Thanks as always, the suspense was delicious!

OMG!! this is wonderful two chapters so close together! YAY!!! Ok, So I have a really bad feeling about this, I don't think I liked Gertrude here and that's a first, I always love her and I think I know what Severus is trying to do, to repay to her. I think she won't got for it, but I have this feeling of unease regarding her in this chapter. Maybe I'm just crazy! lol. thanks for updating, I can't wait to read what's going to happen next, I'm so anxious now! Sam

Ah, finally I find some time to post a review. Sorry I didn't review the last chapter, I was busy trying to get a place at a uni and dealing with some private problems. I also started writing fanfics myself, but not for Harry Potter (at least nothing there I'm ready to publish yet) and my mind was simply focused on that task the last week. I was so happy when I saw you updated though. I feel with Severus, I guess I would've reacted similiar if someone like Aine told me all those things. But it's very good she and Hafrena told him to tell Poppy and Quin. Even if he puts something at risk, it's not as much as he would if not telling and it coming out accidently (just like they said). And I'm also supporting the general idea of talking about things, because even that can make it easier to bear the truth. Which in this case is a very hard truth and therefore should be shared with at least Poppy.The other interaction with all the characters were lovely. Especially those of Quin/Gertie, Gareth/Helena and of course the 'new star couple' Poppy/Severus. Somehow I missed some more interaction between Minerva/Albus, but I guess as the host couple they naturally don't have that much time for each other.Now I'm curious about how things will proceed, between all those couples (did you try to hint there's more going on between Q/G???) and of course about the next evening you mentioned at the end.Oh and btw, I support the wish for an update of CSG ;)xxx

I'm so excited to see an update for this story and just when I needed a diversion from real life. woo hooThis was an emotional chapter. I felt a little sorry for Snape when Aine revealed that she'd need what happened with Gertie and then she promised to tell her Father. I'm sure that had to be rough and might have even felt like an ambush, of sorts.The photo bit was very funny and I could see all that playing out in my head and then the game started. Tons of fun, there!!!Great chapter and I'm looking forward to another update soon ... and maybe one on the Johannes/Siofre fic, too!! HINT HINT!!!

Ahh! What a treat this chapter, couldn't stop smiling! It started serious enough of course: must have been pretty uncomfortable for Snape, to get to know about Aine's and Hafrena's darker findings. Can imagine he became quite defensive, for a moment fearing his world may start collapsing, but the Macairt-duo dealt with it very well and it must be helpful that Aine confirmed his fears about what his secret may lead to, so that may prompt him to deal with it, rather than push it away. The sorting was remarkable and funny and Quin will ALWAYS stand out from the crowd *smile*. Lovely dessert, coupled with a clever chair created a few nice and warm moments for Sev and Poppy, but I doubt if the others really failed to notice them, as he was hoping. They're a pair and after this evening his colleagues and friends will be aware of that, I think! Lovely scenes surrounding the party-games and i love to be able to follow Snape's thoughts and see him grow in the situation and even starting to enjoy himself *big smile*. Thanks for the awesome chapter!

I couldn't believe it! An update! YAY! I'm sooo happy, thank for updating! I loved this chapter, it was so fun and I loved the interaction between Poppy and Severus. I really like Aine, she's a nice girl. I do hope Severus will talk to Poppy soon about Gertrude and I hope her reaction isn't as bad as he thinks it might be. Was going on with Quin and Gertrude? lol, I'm so obsessed with her! Thank you so much for updating and I hope we'll see a new chapter again soon, and please don't forget about CSG! pleaseeeee *pouts* :DSam  

To be well prepared for the update, chapter 104, I thought I should read the party-related chapters again. I know, I've already reviewed this chapter, but this time I especially noticed the discussion of Albus and Minerva about Albus's relation with Gareth and with Severus. I find their talk very enlightening, giving even more depth to the characters and the story. It struck me how much love they feel for both Sev and Gareth and how much insight especially Minerva has, though Albus by now also understands very well that he didn't always do right and what impact it had on 'the boys'. Beautiful scene!

Wonderful chapter! It's so much fun t read about the party I've been looking forward to for so long. You've created another greaet character with Calum.I'm absolutely loving the grown up Aine. The divination at dinner was fantastic. I love the discussion between Aine and Hafrena and Severus' observations and thoughts too! The way you expand the magical world created by JKR with your own ideas an explanations is one of my favorite parts of reading your stories. It makes the fantasy seem real. I can't wait to see what more she has to tell Severus after dinner. I'm also quite concerned about what might provoke severus to more violence and which of his loved ones it involves. You're so brilliant at satisfying your reader's curiosity on some things while creating all new things to be puzzed out. Thank you so much for continuing to update this story. It's become an absolute favorite of mine.

Exciting chapter!I love the way you describe the different methods of Divination; it actually makes  kind of sense to me now, and I had always been of Severus' mind about it.Looking forward to more.

What a grand start to the weekend ... an update from you. Looks as if Albus's dinner party is going well and the guests are having very spirited conversations. I really enjoyed the bit with Aine and Severus at the end. His dry comments and somewhat sarcastic nature really burst through. It was also interesting to read more of her talents and makes me wonder why the Ministry would be so clueless and not use her to solve the mystery!Hoping to see another update soon!

I can't believe I missed this chapter. I love it! Poppy wanting to brng Severus to her family's for a holiday is fantastic! Makes me grin hugely as I read. Sunday dinner is just as good. I adore hat she's wanting to get him better acquainted with her family - make him a part of all aspects of her life. I enjoyed reading about the cocktail portion of the party from Poppy's perspective watching Severus (who is watching her). What a great surprise to discover the identity of Max and so fun that it's something Severus is interested in. He seems to be relaxing and actually starting to enjoy himself. I wish it weren't so late. I'll have to wait until tomorrow to read the new chapter. Ah well, something to look forward to.

I couldn't believe my eyes! An update! I'm so happy. And what a wonderful chapter it was, full with mistery and lively conversation. I can't wait to know who the attacker is, I think I have an idea but I need to re-check the other stories, I'm not sure if she's alive lol. I hope this prophecy of Aine won't mean more despair for Severus! I missed seeing him together with Poppy too. I hope they can overcome what the future shall bring together, they do make a great couple! Sam

So supremly excited to see an update of this story. I've been working 3 different jobs the last 2 weeks and this is my first opportunity to be online for fun. Been looking forward to this since I saw the post. I loved this chapter! From the wonderful password questions, to reliving Malcom's dragon ride and duel with Albus. I loved Poppy's memories and her nervousness at sharing them with Severus. Loved too how Severus was more focused on watching Poppy than what he was there to see. Can't believe the much discussed dinner party is almost here! I hope Severus is able to clear up his foolish hesitation at picking Poppy up soon.

Glad you are back. Severus' and Poppys relationship developes nicely, a good thing they had this discussion. Looking forward to witness the party. It is good to follow Severus being more and more confident in life

Thanks for the update!That was certainly a heavy conversation between Severus and Poppy. I'm glad it's all out in the open between them, well as much as it can be. It was a much needed conversation for Poppy to get all that off her chest. At least it ended well for them.Looking forward to their holiday together and seeing what happens next. Cheers,the GLM

I haven't read the new chapters yet - saving them for the weekend-but wanted to let you know how happy I am to see you've updated and I assume "got your muse back". Yea!!!

Those were definitely truths that needed to be told.  What a wonderful chapter of sharing and discovery.

yay! another update! thanks!. This was a lovely chapter, I'm so glad that they got some things out in the open and that Severus seems more secure in his feelings! it was great that he told her he loves her!!!. I can't wait for next chapter, this party is going to be wonderful I just know it. I hope Severus says yes to their holiday. Thanks for the update!Sam

Fascinating memory and pensieve lore! I really like it that Severus prefers the current Poppy and thinks the other a WIP.

Author's Response: Thanks!

Now if only Poppy could realise that's what Severus sees . . .

Alcina vom Steinsberg's response: I hope the subject will arise sometime! ;o)

Confession time... went well, thankfully

Author's Response: Yes, much better than most of his confession times have gone, certainly! Thanks!

Awww! Jealous Severus is jealous, how cute! ;o) As is tipsy Severus.

Having a Squib doing this kind of job as electrician is a very sensible idea. I keep thinking that there must be quite some squibs out there, and supposedly most of them would be living in the Muggle world and could provide such services.  My own thinking went along preparatory schooling for the open-minded wizardfolk and medical services so far, and some others. I always found Arthur Weasley's ignorance about Muggle culture rather puzzling.
And yaaay! to the bookshelves! I saw one the other day that would have been perfect for Spinner's End; I'm going to post it to my LJ in the next days.

Author's Response: I found Arthur's ignorance very strange, too -- especially since he supposedly dealt with Muggle objects in his job. Maybe he's dyslexic? But it's also weird because they use a telephone box as an entrance to the Ministry (which, admittedly, Arthur rarely uses), so you'd think he'd know it's "telephone" and not "fellytone," or whatever he called it. I can understand not understanding the ins-and-outs of how a Muggle household worked, and such, but otherwise . . .

I figured that tidying up Severus's books and making his living room more inviting (and less oppressively overwhelmed with bookcases!) would be one of the best gifts that Gareth could give him! :-)

Thanks for the review! Glad you enjoyed tipsy & jealous Severus!

Wooo hooo!!! I love getting updates on your stories. I'm sad this is the last one for this year but I have high hopes for next year, wink wink!!I have to agree with Gareth. Snape is making problems where there aren't any. He has to learn to trust Poppy or things won't work out for them. If Albus is comfortable with Minerva going without him, then Snape should take a page from his book. And let me just say that a story about Albus and Minerva going to this resort for some quality alone time WOULD BE A GRAND IDEA!!!!! Put that on your "to do" list for 2011, pretty please!!Hugs,the GLM

Ah, your intoxicated Sev is a funny fellow.  Cute little 'tide us over' update.

it is amazing that Severus is still so insecure, a cup of coffee will do him good.  He is very sweet when tipsy

This update was a fabulous Christmas present. A trip to that resort sounds like it would be pretty nice too:). I enjoyed the way Gareth and Severus interact so casually and comfortably and can talk about anything. Thanks for the update. Hope things settle down for you.