Chapter Eighteen: Not Untouched
Chapter 18 of 32
MMADfanLydia frets; Siofre makes subtle plans to bring Johannes closer.
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Chapter Eighteen: Not Untouched
Siofre returned home late on Wednesday evening, barely in time to join Lydia and Johannes for supper, which they were eating in the morning room, since it had seemed that Siofre would not return until late.
"I'm glad you're back, Siofre," Lydia said as soon as Siofre sat down. "Johannes has been fretting about your lengthy absence."
"Lydia exaggerates to a degree," Johannes said. "I simply noted that you were not yet come home and it is past seven, almost seven-thirty. I...that is to say, we...believed you would be back well before now. Terwilliger's work day must have ended hours ago."
Siofre's plate and silverware appeared on the table in front of her, and she helped herself to some fresh green salad, sliced cheese, cold roast beef, and mixed pickle and other condiments. Lydia passed her the bread basket and Johannes poured her a glass of cider.
"After I had finished following young Cadoc...and saw that although he did go into a pub on his way home, he only drank one ale, despite the urging of his mates at the bar...I had an errand of my own to do."
"There is vegetable soup," Johannes said. "We've eaten ours, but you should have some."
"Nay, I had a pasty after I left Cadoc," Siofre said. "This is more than sufficient."
"Do you know better what his difficulties may be?" Johannes asked.
"Aye. Somewhat." Siofre buttered a thick slice of bread and bit into it.
"What are they?" Lydia asked.
Siofre used her knife and fork to cut her roast beef, then she dipped it into some dark mustard. "He dislikes his boss...who sounds like an unreasonable man obsessed with minutia to such a degree that Cadoc is unable to accomplish anything...he is frightened of having the responsibility of fatherhood, and he's in debt to someone, a gambling debt, I believe, from what little I was able to overhear."
"Can you help him at all with any of that?" Johannes asked. "It seems that those are things beyond your control."
"P'raps," Siofre said. She quirked a small lopsided smile. "P'raps not. There may be influences I can exert, at least in a small way."
"What were your other errands?" Lydia asked curiously.
Siofre shook her head. "Nothing important. How were your days, you two?"
"I went into London and found some very charming fabric for the draperies and upholstery for the cottage, then I stopped by the Ministry and Philomena was able to get away and have lunch, then this afternoon I spent down at the cottage supervising the elves in preparing all the surfaces for new paint and varnishes and things."
"Very industrious, Lydia!" Siofre said approvingly. "I appreciate all your help with this, and I know that Minerva will, as well."
"I hope she likes it," Lydia said.
"I do not believe that she could fail to like it," Johannes said.
"And you, Johannes? Your day went well?"
"I also was productive, I believe. I checked the bere field, as I said I might, and it looks fine. I refreshed the avian ward, however. It seemed to me a little weakened. Then I spent much time working on the other gardens and completing more work on the area around the bonfire pit. Tomorrow morning, I must deliver some vegetables...radishes, lettuce, herbs, and the like...to the Three Broomsticks, so I will be out early."
Siofre nodded. "Very good. I have a meeting in the afternoon tomorrow, but I will be here most of the day if either of you needs me."
"Where is your meeting?" Lydia asked. "Here?"
"Nay. They've not been here before, and I had no wish to invite them and arrange Portkeys. 'Tis in the neighbourhood of Manchester."
"How are you getting there?"
"Apparating to Glasgow and Flooing from there," Siofre replied.
"What is the meeting about?" Johannes asked.
"A problem someone's having with the Ministry. 'Tisn't a major thing, in itself, but one of his neighbours is stirring things up."
"How so?" Lydia asked.
Siofre chewed and swallowed. "Usual thing...the neighbour has nothing better to do with his time than to stick his nose in and create a flap where there's no problem. My client...potential client...keeps a few Aethonans and several Granians. He has them in a well-warded area protected from Muggles. They simply canna be seen by Muggles...or even by witches or wizards unless they actually go onto the man's land and trespass...but he is not complying with the letter of the law by casting Disillusionment Charms on each individual horse. He has a large field in which they roam when they're not in their stable, he likes to ride them...and whenever he rides them within possible view of Muggles, he does cast Disillusionment Charms on both himself and the horse...and Disillusioning them regularly is both impractical and unnecessary. Nonetheless, the neighbour reported him to the Ministry, and he's up for a hefty fine and possibly even time in Azkaban, since there are so many of the beasts."
"So are you going to help him?" Johannes asked.
"If the facts turn out to be as they were stated to me and there's not some unknown problem, aye, I'll represent the man in front of the Wizengamot. He is complying with the spirit of the law, after all. I think I can even find an argument that he is also complying with the letter of the law if the law is read in a particular way."
"This isn't the sort of case you normally take on," Lydia observed.
"True, and 'tis hardly a matter of life or death, but it bothers me when folk mix in where they've no business and cause people such aggravation and worry...and potential harm. I also think that the MLE should have exercised more discretion and common sense and never levied charges against the man. The Ministry's becoming more heavy-handed every year, and not with regard to the things that truly matter, either, in my opinion. At any rate, I meet with the man and his wife tomorrow, and we shall see what I can do to help them."
After supper, Siofre was in her study when Lydia knocked on the open door.
"Do you have a minute?"
"Of course!" Siofre closed her journal and turned to face Lydia.
Lydia came in, closing the door behind her, and sat down in the armchair across from her sister-in-law. "Johannes was quite worried when you weren't home earlier than you were. I had to convince him that it was acceptable to sit down and eat without you."
"Of course. There are times when I am not here at dinnertime at all," Siofre said. "I do not expect everyone to starve in my absence."
"He is very concerned about your well-being," Lydia said.
"Reassure him, then, that I did not reach this age by being incapable of taking care of myself. Heavens, Lydia!" Siofre shook her head.
"Perhaps you could let us know if you think you'll be gone longer..."
"Lydia, I have always let you know when I thought I might be away overnight, and you know well enough to begin eating the evening meal without me an I'm not here. You know I canna always predict how long something like this will take, and you knew that this was an all-day job, not just a brief meeting. I was hardly missing!"
"I know, but Johannes is unused to your sometimes erratic schedule."
"Lydia, hen, he is our gardener, not my guardian. If he worries, he must do so quietly and not have any expectations that they will be allayed, or else learn not to worry. It is not my concern."
"I don't know how you can say that! Johannes is more than our gardener."
"Aye, of course, of course. He has become a friend, and he is managing the grounds and certain aspects of the estate admirably, as well. The magister has become an invaluable employee, not to mention a vital part of our household. None of that changes the fact that if he worries, it is his own affair."
Lydia was quiet a moment. "I would have thought you would be more concerned about his feelings."
"I am not going to change my practices for him. He will either have to become used to my habits or become used to being irrationally concerned."
Lydia shook her head. "I know you are fond of Johannes. You cannot possibly be as insensitive to his feelings as you say."
"Of course not. But you reassured him. That should be sufficient for you...that and my safe return home for supper."
"But Siofre..."
"I am not discussing this subject any longer, Lydia. And if you plan to broach my own feelings for the man, do not. I have also said all I am going to on that subject."
"He cares about you."
Siofre sighed. "I know that, hen," she said softly. "And I am not untouched. You must know that. But . . . truly, there was no reason for him to worry, and as for any of his other . . . feelings . . . I simply do not wish to discuss them. I canna change my life for this."
Lydia nodded. "Very well, Siofre, but I think you are making a mistake."
"You and I are very different, and I do not believe that I am making a mistake. Prudence will pay off in one way or another, and I do know my own mind even an I do not always share its contents with you."
"All right. Do you want to pop down to the cottage tomorrow morning and see what progress we've made?"
"Aye, that would be good. That reminds me that I also need to take the time to add Johannes to the wards so that he may Apparate freely on the grounds. The man has been walking almost everywhere."
"You are adding him to the full family wards?" Lydia asked.
"Aye. Not just to the general wards, such as for workmen...those would be insufficient to his needs, given the location of the bere field, anyway...nor only the modified wards. Admitted to the family wards, he will be able to Apparate directly into the house, as well. You see, Lydia, I do consider the man and his needs."
"When was the last time you added someone to the family wards who wasn't actually a part of it, at least by marriage?"
"Never. There hasn't been a need. But back when they were here, the Mackenzies all always had the complete freedom of the estate, too."
"But they were related in some distant way...and they lived here."
"So does the magister, even an it be for just a time."
"Still . . ."
"Do not go on about it," Siofre said briskly, avoiding further discussion of the family wards and their rituals. "Was there anything else? I was almost finished with my notes for the day."
"Will you join me downstairs after, then?"
"I thought I'd relax in my sitting room this evening and read until bedtime. You're welcome to join me, if you wish, though, hen."
Lydia shook her head. "I want to work on the violin part for my composition. I didn't have time during the day."
"I look forward to seeing the cottage tomorrow and all you've accomplished with it."
"Good night, Siofre. Sleep well." Lydia bent and kissed Siofre's cheek. "Sweet dreams."
"Aye, and you, hen."
The next morning, Johannes left early with a large crate of produce for the Three Broomsticks, and Siofre and Lydia Apparated to the cottage. Siofre was impressed by the progress.
"It is looking very nice, Lydia, quite fine, indeed," she said in approval.
"I had the house-elves begin with the decorating, but they're leaving the bathrooms and kitchen until after the plumbing is finished."
"It is amazing how much better, how much lighter everything seems already."
"You know, I was thinking of leaving some of the woodwork bare, just varnish it or something. When the old paint came off, I thought the wood itself looked quite beautiful, and I think it would be in keeping with the rest of the cottage."
"I think that's fine," Siofre replied. "That shade of teal green does look nice in the dining room. It will look well with the dark mahogany furniture we selected for the room."
"I'm looking forward to having the decorating finished so that we can move the furniture down."
"We'll need to move the furniture from the hall before the bonfire night, anyway, in case Murdoch's party needs to be indoors."
"You should have Maisie do a forecast," Lydia suggested. "It's only a little more than a week now; she should be able to be fairly accurate. She might even be able to perform some localised countermeasures if the weather does not appear ideal."
"I will do that," Siofre said. "She does enjoy doing a little weather magic now and again, and the McKenna place is a bit too small for doing much that wouldn't be noticed by Muggles."
"What did you do after you were finished following Terwilliger yesterday?" Lydia asked as they went up to the first floor to look at the bedrooms.
"I visited Tiree. I went to see Bridie."
"About those two young people?"
Siofre shook her head. "A personal matter."
"Johannes?"
"It was a personal matter," Siofre said, "though it did touch on him."
"What did she say? Did she tell you to steer clear of him?" Lydia asked with a frown. Perhaps that explained Siofre's mood the evening before.
"Nay, no such thing. It is far more complex than that, you know that. And 'twas more about myself."
"I am sorry that I'm not a better help to you, Siofre," Lydia said with a sigh.
"Ach, hen! You are! In so very many ways." Siofre reached out and rubbed Lydia's upper arm. "And I always consider any advice you give me, you know. It is just sometimes good to speak with someone outside a situation, and Bridie's been giving me advice since I was first a young married witch."
"She must have been young then, too."
"Aye, by comparison, of course. But her daughter, Maire, is still older than I am by a few years. Bridie is beginning to show her age, though. 'Tis sad to see, this aging and fading . . ." Siofre let out a sigh.
"You have been working too hard, you know, Siofre. I think you need to give yourself a holiday. Deal with that fellow and his flying horses, but don't take on anything else new for a while. You'll be busy enough here, I'm sure."
"The income..."
"You need to take some time for yourself," Lydia continued. "And Johannes is bringing in a few Galleons with his produce, and that will increase as summer comes in, I'm sure, especially with the large field he planted over the other side of the ridge. And with Morgan and Fiona here now and contributing to the general upkeep, you have less to worry about. There's always the reserve account, too. You can borrow from that and pay it back if need be. But you need a holiday."
Siofre nodded. "I may take a week or two," she agreed. "I usually take time in July to go to Tiree, but perhaps I'll do that in May this year. Or both. We shall see."
"Or you could spend the time here. There's so much to be done here, you know. You'd not fail to be busy when you like, or just relax when you prefer that. Enjoy your home. Take a ramble every day, do some hill walking. You could take the opportunity to get a new puppy to replace old Jagger...not that Jagger is replaceable, of course, but it's been since November that he's been gone...and you could take the time to train him. Then you'd have a companion for your hill walking again...or bring Johannes along with you. He seems to love these hills, too. You could show him all your favourites. But you needn't spend your holiday away."
"P'raps. Aye. We shall see." She pulled out her watch from around her neck and looked at it. "Johannes should be returned by now. I will go add him to the wards and get that done before lunch."
"Have you told him?" Lydia asked.
"I mentioned that I would add him to the family wards. He attempted to demur, but it is appropriate."
"The full family wards? Not the modified ones?"
"Aye. As I said I would. I shall join him to the clan first, then add him to the wards."
"Did you explain how ancient the wards are?"
"You mean the ritual, the oaths, and the blood-let binding him to land and family?" Siofre shook her head. "I doubt it will be a surprise to him, however. He is a Ravenclaw, after all, and hardly a child."
"Be sure you say something before you take out that copper knife, though, Sister. He may appear unflappable, but it is his manner. That may come as a shock, whether he lets on or not."
Siofre cackled. "Dinna worry about that, hen! I shan't be chasin' the dear lad about the grounds with dagger in hand!" Still laughing at the picture that evoked in her mind, Siofre Disapparated for the main house.
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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!