Chapter Three: The Grandson
Chapter 3 of 32
MMADfanMalcolm invites Johannes to his place for lunch.
Chapter features Malcolm McGonagall and Johannes Birnbaum.
Chapter Three: The Grandson
"She liked your plans? That's great, mate!" Malcolm exclaimed. He poured two glasses of beer for them before sitting down on the other end of the couch from Johannes. "And she's going to hire you to do the work, I hope!"
"Yes. As it is such a large commission, I have agreed to limit the other work I do and not take any new commissions. I will continue to make occasional visits to a few gardens that I have worked on in the past and perform maintenance, but I will devote most of my time to the Tyree estate. In fact, Madam Siofre has suggested that I stay there during the week."
"Really? You must have made quite an impression on Grandmother and Aunt Lydia. They don't normally have guests. Family, of course, and sometimes friends, but never strangers, and it usually takes years of acquaintance before you go from 'stranger' to 'friend,' not just a week."
Johannes smiled. "Your grandmother is a remarkable woman, Malcolm. I hope that I have won her trust."
"You must have, or she wouldn't have invited you to stay. Will you be in the lodge, then? It's been empty for years. It probably needs a lot of work to get it livable, but the house-elves..."
"No, I'll be in the main house. She is giving me a suite of rooms on the second floor. They are near the second level of the library."
"Huh. Wouldn't have guessed that." Malcolm shrugged. "So how's the work going?"
"Very well. Fandenz and Gweller have been great help, and I have been able to give them many of the basic tasks that need to be done before I can start the new planting. We are laying down new paths now, too, and I hope to have the gardens closest to the house completed soon. I want to create a special play garden for the quads. They are young yet, but I want a good place for them to play, and someplace where they can crawl around now and put things into their mouths without worry, and that I can expand for them as they begin to walk, run, and climb." He grinned. "I thought a tree house, when they're old enough. And they can help with it, make it their own special place."
"You certainly do have long-term plans to work there," Malcolm said with a laugh. "The quads aren't even a year old yet."
Johannes shrugged. "I can return at intervals, if necessary. The grounds will require maintenance. The house-elves can do much of it, of course, but this is a long-term project, in any case. We are considering putting in a greenhouse. There is only so much that one can do with the conservatory and cold frames, even with charms on the cold frames."
"Sounds like Grandmother Siofre is quite ambitious, then." Malcolm grinned. "She'll have her own resident Herbologist-cum-garden-architect. But won't a commitment like this interfere with your own plans? You'll hardly be able to establish yourself if you spend all of your time as the Tyree gardener. I thought you were going to look for some land this spring, start your own greenhouse, build up a business."
"Madam Siofre has given me a generous retainer. When I find the right piece of land, I will be able to buy it."
"You won't be able to work on your own land and in your own greenhouse if you're spending every day working someone else's, though," Malcolm pointed out.
Johannes shook his head. "This is a challenge, it is a beautiful place, and if she is pleased with my work, Madam Siofre will provide me a reference. I have a large budget for the gardens there, more than I could spend on my own place now once I pay for the land itself. In the meantime, perhaps I could work something out with Madam Siofre so that I could have a small garden of my own there, one for growing herbs that I could sell to apothecaries."
"But what about the rest of your life? Your social life? Locked up there all day, every day, won't you get bored?"
"I am hardly an indentured servant, Malcolm." He smiled and gestured, both palms open. "I am here visiting you today, for example."
"I would think that after living where you worked for so many years at Hogwarts, you'd be happy to be able to have your own life for a change, some freedom."
"It's different from Hogwarts, obviously. It is a private residence and the work is my own to schedule. And although Morgan and Fiona will be moving in with the quads next month...or possibly taking the old lodge...four 'wee bairns,' as your grandmother calls them, is hardly the same as a school full of children."
"But what about your social life...your social life," Malcolm said. "Friends . . . maybe a lover, if we can find you the right witch. You can hardly have your social life there, invite anyone home for a drink."
"As I said, I am not required to be there. I will keep my apartment in Hogsmeade, visit friends, and as for a lover . . ." He shook his head. "I am happy as things are."
Malcolm shrugged and shook his head. "Living with two old witches, though . . . I love them, and if it weren't for Trudie working at Hogwarts, I probably would have moved back there instead of buying this place, but they're family. My family, that is, not yours. I can't imagine living in someone else's house with a couple other witches I wasn't related to." He grinned quickly and winked. "Well, I can, but they'd be younger, and it wouldn't be for work, if you know what I mean! And they'd be more than a little bit younger. Did I ever tell you about Victoria and Constance? English witches living in Rome? No? I'll have to sometime. But that was only for a few weeks. It sounds as though you're thinking in terms of months."
"Ja, but these are gardens, plants, with seasons and growing periods. It is not . . . plumbing," Johannes said with a smile.
Malcolm laughed. "Aye, Grandmother Siofre told me that Aunt Lydia tried to sweet-talk you into looking into her skrechin pipes. I've had a couple big jobs down in the Lake District, but I'll be able to pop up and take a look at the pipes in her wing of the house by the end of the week. We can have a good chin-wag then, and you can tell me if you regret taking on such a massive commission yet. I had thought it would be a good money-maker for you if you were able to win over Grandmother Siofre, but I had no idea that it would be so all-consuming."
"That is not a bad thing, Malcolm. This winter has been a lean one, and even last summer, I was not as busy as I would have preferred."
"As long as you're happy. But if I were you, I'd ask for the lodge and have Morgan, Fiona, and the kiddies move into the main house."
Johannes shrugged one shoulder. "It is as Madam Siofre wishes. So, you invited me for lunch...is there anything other than this? It is very good beer, do not misunderstand, but now I need something more solid."
Malcolm grinned. "Glad you like the beer. Brewed it myself. I thought it turned out well. Yes, there's lunch. It's cassoulet, salad, and bread, all made by yours truly," he said, standing. "Mother tried to send me a house-elf, Orents, but not only was I afraid that Fwisky, his mum, would miss him too much, but I kept forgetting he was here. He made himself quite useful without any direction from me, but I am used to being on my own. So now he comes once a week to do some cleaning, checks up on me for Mother."
As they sat down in the dining room for lunch, another pitcher of beer on the table along side the white bean stew, bread, and salad, Johannes asked, "How is Gertrude?"
"She's great," Malcolm replied, serving some cassoulet to his guest. "Great, great, great. She's coming down for dinner tonight and staying through tomorrow."
"That is good to hear. Your grandmother mentioned to me that she had hoped you would move to the Tyree place when you settled down. I think she was disappointed that you did not."
"Did she say that?" Malcolm asked, breaking off a piece of bread and dipping it in his cassoulet.
"She did not say that she was disappointed. But she said it had been her hope. I presume that she was disappointed when you did not."
Malcolm nodded and swallowed his bread. "I suppose. She did invite me to come live there after my year of teaching was over. I'd told her that I wasn't travelling again right away and wanted to settle down, and so she invited me to join them at the Tyree home, but she didn't say anything more after I told her that I wanted a place in Hogsmeade that would be easy for Gertrude to visit . . . and where I could see the school and know she was there. Not that I told Grandmother that." He gave a quick grin. "Sounds pretty silly when I say it out loud."
"It is romantic," Johannes said. "It is good that Gertrude has a man with some romance in his heart. I was unsure when I first met you, and not simply because of any personal loss on my part. You seemed . . . what is the expression . . . devil-may-care. To see Gertrude taken with you . . . it was surprising . . . and then you moved very quickly. I worried about her."
"Oh, I have had my moments of frivolousness, I admit that, but I haven't been a complete cad in a long, long time. And even then, I was merely young and clueless; I woke up and changed my ways. Not completely, of course. Still liked the lassies." He smiled, his eyes sparkling.
"Like the English girls in Rome?" Johannes said with a raised eyebrow.
"Mmm . . . lovely witches, they were, too. But we were very clear that we were all just having a bit of fun. I'm sure they have some very pleasant memories." He winked and took another swallow of beer.
"You seem to have some, too," Johannes said.
Malcolm shrugged slightly. "I suppose I do, but I don't think of them. I think of my Trudie and of making her happy," he said softly.
"And you are staying the course with her. I see that. And I do not feel any need to worry about her any longer."
Malcolm nodded. "Look, I don't want to over-talk this, but I am glad to hear that. I know it was hard for you. You and Tru were very close friends. I'm sure it wasn't easy for you."
"It was not myself that was a concern of mine. It was she. She seems strong, and she is, but . . ."
"I know. Aye, I know," Malcolm said softly. Gertrude had had too much pain in her life and carried it with her. He looked over at his companion, his vibrant hazel eyes meeting dreamy grey ones. "And you know, too. It was something that you shared . . ." He tore his gaze away and poured himself more beer.
"She seems happy now, though?" Johannes asked.
Malcolm nodded. "I think she does." His eyes lit up, remembering her last visit to him. "Aye, she is happy. And I am happy, too."
"I will have another glass of that beer now," Johannes said "Tell me about those jobs in the Lake District."
An hour later, Johannes stretched as he stood, and said, "Thank you for the lunch. It was very good."
"Good to see you. I'm glad you could come. Tell Lydia I'll be up to see if I can help with her pipes, Thursday, probably. Will you be moved in by then?"
"Ja, on Monday I am moving in."
"I'll stay the night, then, and we two can have a bit of a party and you can have a relief from the two Tyree witches," Malcolm said, leading Johannes down the hall.
Johannes smiled. "Madam Siofre is forever teasing Madam Lydia that she is only a Tyree in name. And I do not believe I need relief from them, but it would be pleasant to spend an evening together...they could join us, if they liked."
"And I am going to make it my mission to keep your social life vital," Malcolm said, clapping the other wizard on the shoulder. "And to start that off, we are going on a date next Saturday."
Johannes stopped and looked at Malcolm, one eyebrow raised quizzically. "Really?"
"Not just the two of us, of course...though I've always liked long blond hair!" Malcolm teased. "No, I am going to find you a date, and you, Gertrude, I, and your date...yet to be determined...will go for a night on the town. Not here, though. Diagon Alley, maybe. I'll think of something. And I'll find a good date for you. No worries there, mate. A witch with a good brain in her head."
"I really don't think so," Johannes began.
"Don't worry, nothing heavy, just a fun night out."
"I don't need a date," Johannes started again.
"Don't think of it as a date, then. Just going out with a couple of old friends and one new one. And keep an open mind about that new one," Malcolm said. "You never know what can come of a new friendship, after all!"
"We can talk on Thursday. I will give your message to Madam Lydia. Thank you for lunch, Malcolm. Have fun on your jobs this week."
After the door had closed behind Johannes, Malcolm nodded and said to himself, "Aye, I'll find you a witch, my friend. You just leave it to me."
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Latest 25 Reviews for Charming the Scottish Garden
126 Reviews | 8.24/10 Average
Dear MMADfan, I love this story! Do you plan to write more chapters in the future? I would love to see it finished.
I really hope you update soon, you write such wonderful fanfiction and I find myself rereading some of the old ones hopefully your next update will be near in the future for this as well as LVS
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Thank you! I do hope to update both stories soon!
I really hope you update soon, you write such wonderful fanfiction and I find myself rereading some of the old ones hopefully your next update will be near in the future for this as well as LVS
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Thank you very much,
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
!I will definitely try to get a few chapters of Charming the Scottish Garden and LVS posted this autumn. I'm sorry for the wait. It's very good to know that people are still reading them and will be here to read the new chapters when I (finally!) get them written. (Life's not been conducive to writing in the last couple years, sadly.)I really appreciate the note! I will do my best to get a new chapter up very soon. 
Response from uma (Reviewer)
Yes I have been keeping up with your stories. I especially liked RAM itself , although I should let you know or perhaps you do know. But I read on ff.net and I usually keep with the newest MMAD fiction, I recently came across one that had taken a parts of your story and added it to theirs, I commented saying I read it before to which the author promptly deleted my comment. Just thought you should know as even though I am no writer I felt bad about something like that. However I shall eagerly await your next update :)
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Would you mind emailing me or messaging me through ffnet to let me know which story it is, if you remember the title? I would appreciate it. I'm very glad that you like RAM!
Response from uma (Reviewer)
i do not have an account on FF.net :/ sorry, i usually just go as a guest i already signed up on alot of new pages. And i could read the stories just as easily, But the Name of the Story is Even in Death by Albus P.W.BDumbledore1891. You take a good look at chapter 5
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Thanks very much! :-) I appreciate the tip!
First a new chapter of LVS and then CSG- I am in heaven! As much as I want to see Siofre and Johannes admit their feelings for each other, I enjoyed the "push-pull" of this chapter. The way the talk of age differences turned to them, Siofre wanting to take his hand but not, sitting close on the bench- all of it a wonderful buildup. 5 stars!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
I'm glad it made you happy and you're liking the "push-pull"!I'm hoping to update at least two chapters a month -- more if I can -- alternating amongst the WIPs I have going. I am resisting the sudden onslaught of plot bunnies that are begging me to write more RaMverse fics set during the immediate post-RaM time period, like CSG is.Thanks for the review! It's encouraging! 
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
I'm glad it made you happy and you're liking the "push-pull"!I'm hoping to update at least two chapters a month -- more if I can -- alternating amongst the WIPs I have going. I am resisting the sudden onslaught of plot bunnies that are begging me to write more RaMverse fics set during the immediate post-RaM time period, like CSG is.Thanks for the review! It's encouraging!
Best birthday present, ever!!! An update for this and it's a very shippy Siofre/Johannes chapter. woooo hoooI think this line was absolutely brilliant:Siofre found herself smiling back, and her heart beating faster at the sight of him. Could she really give him up to another witch?NOPE, she can't give him up to another because her heart already belongs to him and he holds hers as well. I wasn't too fond of the ADMM discussion. Siofre unnerves me when she speaks of Minerva and Albus's relationship, especially in this context. I know Malcolm is her favorite but it almost felt like she wasn't thrilled with Albus marrying Minerva, even though it's what makes her happiest and clearly they adore one another. sigh. Oh well ... I'm still happy for Siofre and Joannes, awwww.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Hi! Glad to give you a good birthday prezzie! :-)What Siofre is not thrilled with is Albus not marrying Minerva. It's not that she has objections to their not being married, but she's afraid that Minerva wants marriage & Albus ain't askin' -- and she's right, at this point. But Minerva is being Stoic and sensible, and since she won't talk to Siofre about it, Siofre's not about to give her advice. She's also just plain worried that Minerva will end up having a broken heart or have some other sadness in her life because of the relationship. She loves Minerva and doesn't want to see her hurt -- she cares about Albus, but Minerva's her granddaughter, so she's Siofre's priority in her heart, not Albus, even if she doesn't feel it's her place to bring up her worries with Minerva.As you know from LVS, Siofre and Johannes will eventually be happy together -- Johannes's policy of being steadfast and patient pay off, and Siofre will never have any worries that he did not come to her freely, or that he might have been better off with someone else. But there's a bit of story between now & then, so I'd better say no more -- I'm afraid I'll leak spoilers! LOL!Thanks for the review!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Hi! Glad to give you a good birthday prezzie! :-)What Siofre is not thrilled with is Albus not marrying Minerva. It's not that she has objections to their not being married, but she's afraid that Minerva wants marriage & Albus ain't askin' -- and she's right, at this point. But Minerva is being Stoic and sensible, and since she won't talk to Siofre about it, Siofre's not about to give her advice. She's also just plain worried that Minerva will end up having a broken heart or have some other sadness in her life because of the relationship. She loves Minerva and doesn't want to see her hurt -- she cares about Albus, but Minerva's her granddaughter, so she's Siofre's priority in her heart, not Albus, even if she doesn't feel it's her place to bring up her worries with Minerva.As you know from LVS, Siofre and Johannes will eventually be happy together -- Johannes's policy of being steadfast and patient pay off, and Siofre will never have any worries that he did not come to her freely, or that he might have been better off with someone else. But there's a bit of story between now & then, so I'd better say no more -- I'm afraid I'll leak spoilers! LOL!Thanks for the review!
I didn't realize until just now how much I have truly missed this story. But I will be patient and constant. Also, yaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!
CFP
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Thank you! I'm glad you liked it. I've actually missed it, too.Thanks for ... um, I mean, CFR! 
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Thank you! I'm glad you liked it. I've actually missed it, too.Thanks for ... um, I mean, CFR!
YAY!!! I couldn't believe it when I got the message for the update, it's really here! A new chapter! :) Thank you! I loved it, the long wait was more than worth it because this chapter is just perfect. I always love when these two have their little moments, it's so cute. I loved getting to know a little more about Siofre's thoughts and feelings, I love that she's just as anxious and ready as Johannes is, I can't wait to see how they finally come together. I loved that he was firm about wanting to spend the afternoon with her and didn't let her get away with working alone. I can't wait for the next chapter, I hope it won't be too long a wait :)
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Hi! I'm so glad you enjoyed it!Yes, Johannes is becoming gradually more assertive, but without being pushy or aggressive about it, and always with Siofre's good in his mind. I, too, hope it will not be too long a wait for another chapter of CSG! Thanks for letting me know you enjoyed the chapter!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Hi! I'm so glad you enjoyed it!Yes, Johannes is becoming gradually more assertive, but without being pushy or aggressive about it, and always with Siofre's good in his mind. I, too, hope it will not be too long a wait for another chapter of CSG! Thanks for letting me know you enjoyed the chapter!
I'm not quite sure if Lydia has three children or only one - Bertrand - are her others Conner and someone else? I got a bit confused when Soifre was explaining her children - seemed to me she miscarried a lot and that Bertrand was the only child - but then you said he was the youngest, so I got confused.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
I need to reread the chapter & make sure that I haven't mis-typed something. If I have, I'll go in and make a correction! Thanks!Lydia has one child, Bertrand, and he has two children, Phoebe and Conner. Conner's married to Elisabeth and they have one boy, Liam (who grows up to be Eoghan's father).
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
I think the plethora of children, grandchildren, and other relatives may simply have overwhelmed the synapses. hee! In the previous chapter, Siofre does say that Bertrand was Lydia & Malcolm Tyree's only child, and then in this chapter, she speaks of Bertrand being married to Sally (Longbottom) and the two of them having Connor & Phoebe. Charles Prince is Bertrand's cousin (Charles's father was Bertrand Prince, Lydia's brother, for whom she named her son), and Charles is married to Sally's sister Louisa. (And this is why Severus is related to Eogan in two ways -- through the Princes & the Longbottoms. Bertrand's cousin and Sally's sister are Eileen Prince's grandparents, thus Severus's great-grandparents, and Bertrand and Sally themselves are Eoghan's great-grandparents.) Yeah, can get confusing! 
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
I'll just take your word for it and go forward - it was confusing - whew! Thanks for explaining in simple terms - you know sometimes I need a map. *smirks*
*snip*“I may need to take additional measures,” Siofre said. “And the spells I cast will only be effective as long as they are in the house. From what I understand, he drinks, then comes home mean. On good nights, he passes out before he does more than shout and make a scene. The nosy neighbour turns a blind eye to the husband’s behaviour, though he surely must know of it. Any road, I did what I could to make sure that if he does come home drunk, he passes out straightaway upon crossing the threshold. If he tries to take a drink at home, he’ll become ill. Gwyneth claims that when he’s not drinking, he’s moody, but otherwise fine. Most of the spells I cast were aimed at his drinking—making the consequences miserable for him. I cast a few protective spells around Gwyneth, and I gave her an emergency Portkey, as well. If Cadoc becomes violent or frightens her in any way, she can Portkey to her brother and sister-in-law’s home.”“Why would she stay with such a brute?” Johannes asked.“She does love him, or the man she remembers marrying,” Siofre replied, “but she is expecting a baby. It was partly for her baby’s sake that I tried to persuade her to leave the man, but she . . . she has her reasons, I suppose.”“He hits her or hexes her and she is pregnant?” Johannes asked, even more appalled than he had been. “The man should be . . . he should be . . . I do not know a suitable punishment, but he does not deserve the family if he cannot treat them with the love and respect that he should. He should be their protector!”Siofre twitched a slight smile. “Perhaps a lecture in gentlemanly behaviour might do him some good . . . in a few weeks, after the man has ceased drinking. If we can manage that.” I hate to say it, but nothing fixes an abuser unless the abuser WANTS to be fixed - only THEY can truly heal themselves - all the abusee can do is leave - and the woman, in my opinion, is being foolish and selfish - and abusive to her unborn child. I can not STAND lazy, selfish women like this that would rather live in hell than do something better for their kids.
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Okay, since we know that Lydia is Slytherin, and Johannes is Ravenclaw - I simply MUST know what our Siofre is, my guess, Ravenclaw or Gryffindor - or perhaps Slytherin.... but I'm putting my coin on Ravenclaw.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Yes, she's a Ravenclaw. :-)You're right about abusers. Siofre's trying to address some of the underlying causes of his drinking, hoping that that will help, as well as doing something about the drinking itself. We shall see what happens with that.Let's see . . . here's the passage from RaM ("A Spree") where Siofre and Johannes meet:Johannes laughed as the three witches all agreed that every wizard still had a little boy in him. Siofre looked up at the tall, sandy-haired wizard.“Don’t know you. You’re foreign, aren’t you?” The words were blunt, but her tone friendly.“I am from Germany, ma’am,” Johannes said in his friendly manner. “Johannes Birnbaum, at your service.”“Ah, the Herbology wizard. Ravenclaw Head of House, aren’t you? Heard good things about you. Siofre Tyree, Ravenclaw myself,” she said, holding out her hand, which Johannes took and bent over in a formal bow.As Johannes straightened, Minerva apologised. “I am sorry, Grandmother. I hadn’t realised that you two hadn’t met.”
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Ah, I should have remembered this - well then, my coin was well placed - Ravenclaw indeed.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Indeed! You're a good 'claw spotter! ;-)
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Am I? Seems I've been spoiled with a few good ones in my life. *winks*
*snip*A few moments later, the two stepped out into the sunshine, and Johannes saw that they had arrived at a gabled cottage of three stories. Unlike the main house with its towers and turrets, this house was not all stone. It was a combination of half-timbering and uncut natural stone of different colours—quite unusual for Scotland, in Johannes’s experience—but very lovely on this woody hill. It seemed half-grown from the land and the surrounding woods.Ok that right there is freaking AWESOME!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
*snip*“Hmph. Still, it is not hers, and it is desolate.” She looked around her. “This is . . . isolated and private, but not set apart the way that island is. And that other, that is Dumbledore’s island. Do you know its name? Eilean Tèarmunn. It means ‘Refuge Island.’ A sanctuary from the wizarding world. Not even a Post Owl can get through to it. That is fine as far as it goes, but for Minerva, I would like her to have a place she could come that is hers if she needs it, and not just that island of Dumbledore’s. She can use the cottage or not, as she likes—and bring Dumbledore with her if she wishes.”Ahhhhh, NOW I am starting to understand the Tyree witches... forward thinking, ahead of their time, true Gaelic women of power - equal power - no woman should rely on a man - yes, now I am seeing the true Soifre. Besides all that, I'm glad she is looking out for Minerva - though I know Dumbledore wouldn't dream of hurting his love, but still, Minerva should have her own place.... and if Soifre has the space, and buildings, why not? Makes perfect sense. I wish I could live here! I'm insainly jealous! 
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
*snip*“You think Minerva might not want it? Even if she uses it seldom, it will be here for her. It can be a holiday cottage for now, if she likes, but she will want a family one day and a home to raise her children."*winces*
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
The shell house is amazing, really amazing!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Hi,
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
! I'm glad you liked the cottage and the shell house. :-)Yes, typical of Tyree witches is that sense of independence, and Siofre has it in spades. She wants to help give Minerva opportunities and that home just of her own. As you say, she has the space, so why not?Yes, Siofre has no crystal ball to see into the future, and she does envision one with Minerva having children of her own. It's a wistful sort of moment for those of us who know what the future does hold for Minerva.
*snip*I hate maths. Maths makes me sleepy and I itch all over. I think I’m allergic,” Lydia said.Siofre barked a laugh. “And that is why I will do the calculations, as always. You’d think we didn’t do this every month.”“I do my very best to forget,” Lydia said pitifully.I can so relate to Lydia here... hate math... haaaaaaaate it.
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
*snip*“I am keeping much rushes, though, here and along the edge opposite,” Johannes said, pointing. “They are good for the animals, for the fowl and fishes, to have them here.”He is absolutely correct - far too many people cut all the natural vegetation out of a pond and kill it, even putting up cement walls around it - turns the water into piss pea soup and basically kills it - thank you for keeping him realistic and knowledgable - a real herbologist! A naturalist!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
LOL! Yes, I'm allergic to math, too -- but sadly have had to work for many years in jobs that required me to sit there and "itch" while using it. Unfortunately, although I hate it, I'm still not abysmal at it. Although I suppose that's good . . . to a point!Glad you like Johannes and his care for the natural balance and all the living things, plant and animal. One of the things he enjoys is knowing how plants fit into an ecosystem, and what plants can do for various critters. He loves to encourage life, so he certainly wouldn't deaden a pond by cutting out all the vegetation and putting in concrete! I'm glad you appreciate this aspect of the story. :-)
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
I've seen far too many gardeners that remind me of some Wal-Mart version of a garden - potted plants that attract NO insects and some concrete and plastic fountain sitting on asphalt - and these 'gardens' are so alien to the natural surroundings and support no life and take up so .... here I am ranting - sorry - anyway, glad to see Johannes is a REAL naturalist/gardener.I also love the explanation of the alarm charms or wards that they are going to put around the pond to keep the babies from drowning - very cool!
Okay - so - lets see, I loved seeing Gertie again, and had to roll my eyes too at Malcolm's silliness - she's a good sport, putting up with him I think - and as usual, I always get embarassed when folks at the table have kissed others at the table but aren't with those at the table - as you know, so I had even more respect for Gertie for sitting through all that as Mal and Katherine talked about his kissing - eh... what else ... Katherine was interesting and I'd like to have learned more about her role in Grindelwald's defeat - as well as her work with Dumbledore but I know that's a minor thing here.I liked how Johannes stumbles around with his English and makes silly errors - chip off the old brick and such - and I like how you've made his speach a bit odd, which it should be, since English isn't his first language.I admit, I'd like to know more about why Grindelwald was after him - recruiting him, but perhaps we'll learn more about that as the story progresses.But most importantly, I'd really curious about WHY Siofre has captured his attention - its a bit of a puzzle to me - I guess I just don't see much of her personality yet or something - besides that she's a very commanding witch - got that alpha personality - perhaps that's it? At any rate, I'm sure I'll learn more as the story progresses.And as always, enjoying your writing, but then again I'd never have started reading Scottish Garden if I wasn't already completely taken with your writing - so no surprises there!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Yes, you'll eventually learn more about what happened to Johannes's family & why.It's partly the commanding personality, and partly just "chemistry" -- or maybe it's "magic," or magical resonance. Malcolm can be a trial, but usually in a funny way, so Gertrude actually enjoys it when he's "exasperating." haha!Glad you're enjoying it!
Oh dear, Malcolm is meddling already... 
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
haha! His heart's in the right place!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Seems most of your characters, OC or Canon, are meddlesome! HAHA! I love EEET! For once it isn't Dumbledore meddling - thankfully - though I suppose right now he's too busy with Minerva to think about much else. *grins*
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Yes, Dumbledore is busy between Minerva, Hogwarts, Minerva, the Ministry, Minerva . . . well, you get the idea!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Mmmmhmmmm - might have to go back and read RaM just to see how busy he is! 
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
This is a bit post-RaM, but you're right: if you reread the end of RaM, you'll get an idea of what may be still be keeping him busy these days! 
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
All good stuff if I remember correctly.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Oh, very good, indeed! 
Morgan and Fiona had quads? What on earth? Magical fertility treatment or something? You simply MUST explain that!I am liking this, loving the timid flirtation from Johannes and the direct flirtation or demands of his time, from Siofre - pretty cute. I love romance in the RamVerse - I don't have to worry about rejection!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Yes, indeed! And everyone suspects they used potions or a spell or something, but they claim not. Minerva calls them "the litter." (Gareth mentioned that tidbit about Minerva's humor to Severus back in LVS somewhere. Severus liked it. hee!)I'm glad you're enjoying the romance. Johannes is rather smitten, and Siofre isn't indifferent, either! Thanks!
A very nice introduction and very cute to see Johannes having an eye on Siofre - looking forward to more Dumbledore and McGonagall!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it. Albus & Minerva will eventually make "personal appearances" in the fic, but not for a while yet -- although Minerva shows up by reference fairly frequently. And there's one of your favorite HP characters coming up soonish, too! :-)
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Ooooh - Gertie???
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Ah, she's a RaMverse character, but yes, she does, indeed, show up! And relatively soon, actually -- sooner than the canon HP character I was thinking of. In fact, there are two canon characters appearing together in that chapter who I'm pretty sure are among your faves. :-)
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
Ooooh! I'm so excited!!!!!
I was very happy to see an update to this story! And what a fun chapter it was. Apparently Minerva isn't the only one who doubts Malcolm's stories. Poor Malcolm. I think Malcolm was holding back in the fight or he would have taken all of the other wizards out easily:). BTW-go Johannes! Loved the spell with the wood. I think he should have left Cam up on the wall. I imagine these lads are in trouble if Gertrude and/ Siofre hear about it. Thanks for a fun read.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Hi! Glad you enjoyed it! Yes, Malcolm could have easily taken them, but it wasn't until it got "serious" that he went ahead and took 'em out. Yes, Johannes might not be much with the traditional defensive spells, hexes, jinxes, and the like, but he's got some imagination and skill with wood, so he didn't do too badly!Thanks!
Well, that certainly wasn't how I was expecting the evening to end. Action packed for sure!!I loved the details you put in about the African dragons. It amazes me how you always come up with new and interesting ideas to add to the RaM universe.I can't believe how quickly the little bar conversation turned ugly. Cam certainly was a nasty bugger and I'm glad Johannes was the one to pin him to the wall. Poor Aberforth, though. I pity him having to clean up all that mess. hahaWonder what Siofre would think if she heard about all that drama??? lol
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
I do wonder what Siofre would think, too! Johannes and Malcolm don't want to find out, that's for sure! Somehow, I can imagine that that story might make its way to her ears, whether the "lads" want it to or not! Yes, Cam was just ready for a confrontation there, wasn't he? And pretty nasty in his comments and innuendos, too. Glad you liked Johannes's trick with the wood. He might not be much at fighting, but he is a clever wizard, nonetheless -- and experienced with wood, as well. Glad you liked the African dragons. I've been looking for an opportunity to stick those into a chapter with Malcolm since I wrote his "application letter" to Dumbledore back in RaM, so it was really fun to finally give them a bit of space and hear a small portion of the story of Malcolm's first dragon ride. Thanks very much for the review!
OMG!! an update!! I was so happy when I saw the email in my inbox! Thanks!I loved this chapter, Malcolm is always so much fun, poor Johannes I don't think he likes the kind of fun Malcolm brings lol. This was a very nice chapter, so funny! I can't wait to read more Siofre and Johannes, they are getting closer by the chapter! LOL.thank you for updatingSam
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter! You're right: Johannes doesn't have the same idea of "fun" that Malcolm does!Thanks for the review! (I was glad to finally be able to write & update! )
I had been holding off reading this chapter and "saving it" since you had mentioned your muse had left you, but tonight I caved in and I'm so glad I did. Johannes' vision of Siofre and his confession to Lydia was breath-taking. How apropos that the jerk that used and left Lydia was a Lockhart. She did much better with her Murdoch. It was a little jarring to read the name Severus back in this time period. I hope you find your muse again. I really miss the updates. Take care.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
I am currently struggling with writing a gift exchange fic that's finally beginning to sort of come together. I hope that once I have that written, maybe my muse will come back for the other stories. I miss them, too.I am glad that you enjoyed the chapter! Your review brought the characters back into my mind, and Lydia's story, so maybe that will help grease the wheels of the fanfic section of my brain! I figured that a Lockhart would be very good at cutting and running when the going got tough even back then. I thought it might be an interesting reminder of Severus' pureblooded side of the family, too, to have mention of the Prince relative he was named after, as well as the Princes' earlier tangles with the Tyree clan. We will also hear more about Eileen and her father in an upcoming chapter -- hmm, do I hear my muse tiptoeing about? LOL!Anyway, thank you very much for your review. I'm glad you enjoyed it -- and sorry that you haven't got another one to look forward to immediately, but I haven't vanished, and I do hope to continue with both this and LVS very soon. :-)
I'm really enjoying your story. Thank you for sharing your talent :)
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Hi,
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
! Thank you for your note! I appreciate it, and I'm really glad you're enjoying the story.
Ooo lovely chapter. I like the way you are building the sexual tension and bonds between them. Fascinating ritual; I'm curious about the artifact. I'm assuming/hoping it has greater meaning than is usual.
I see Malcolm is in the next chapter - thank you!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Thanks,
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
!The next chapter has a bit more about the artifact -- and Siofre's curious about it, as well.I'm glad you're looking forward to seeing Malcolm again. I hope you enjoy it. He'll be popping in and staying for a couple chapters. :-)Thanks for the review! 
LOL God Malcolm is amazing! lol, that tale and the show lol, he's great! I'm so glad he's back and I love it that Siofre calls Gertrude his witch! that's so sweet.
Now the most important part, OMG!! that was sooooo romantic, Johannes is very very romantic, his words to Siofre, the kiss, the pledge! oooohhhh I'm soooo happy right now!!! and Siofre! her reaction was amazing, I'm so pleased! lol. I loved it that she went from Magister to Honnie in less than a minute, she's giving in!
I really think his own private pledge to her has alot to do with the shape, color and markings of the artifact, I can't wait to find out! I'm so excited! Can't wait for the next chapter. GREAT, WONDERFUL writing!
Sam
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Thank you! I enjoy writing Malcolm -- he seems to write himself -- and it's really fun to be able to step back into that period.I'm glad you enjoyed the romantic bits, as well. They are growing ever closer.Thank you very much for reviewing!
Fun chapter, indeedy!!!The conversation with Siofre and Bridie and then the one with her and Johannes warmed my heart fully. His declarations to her about his pledges, both verbal and in his heart, were very sweet. I'm sure she must know by now that he is truly enamoured with her. However, I can still see her giving him the time and space to come to her fully.LOVE, LOVE, LOVE MALCOLM!! He has me grinning from ear to ear with his tales to the wizard and his retelling of his meeting with him. He's such a hoot. And I'd have to agree with Siofre that his witch caught him well. haha.
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
I'm glad you enjoyed both the romance and the humor in this chapter. I think that Siofre is very aware now of his increasingly strong feelings for her. We'll see where that knowledge might lead.I'm glad that you found Malcolm and his tales a hoot. He's fun -- he practically writes himself.Thanks for the review!
Such an awesome chapter! I looooove it!!! The ceremony performed by Siofre was very special and I'm glad they didn't need any witnesses. I think some of the "magic" of the moment would have been lost if others had been around. And the artifact sounds very intriguing. I do hope we'll learn more about that as the story progresses. We are one step closer to having Siofre and Johannes together. SWEEEEET!!!!!Thanks for the update!
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
You're welcome! I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter! They are, indeed, closer now!
thank you, thank you, thank you!! I loved loved this chapter, it's very sweet and so interesting to learn all of this about Siofre and Tyree Clan. It was very funny that he was unsure about her wanting to adopt him lol, and I can't wait to find out what does the artifact mean, I'm sure it has to do something with their bond, I hope so at least!. I'm sooo glad Malcolm is going to be in the next chapter, I miss him! lol. Can't wait to read more, thanks!Sam
Response from MMADfan (Author of Charming the Scottish Garden)
Yeah, he sure didn't want her thinking of him as her son! LOL! And she was glad that he was happy that he'd be closer to her than to any others in the clan. (Yay -- my javascript emoticons are working again! LOL!)It's been fun writing Malcolm in this coming chapter, so I hope you'll enjoy it.Thanks for the review!