Third Law
Chapter 3 of 16
MelenkaTo every action there is always opposed an equal reaction: or the mutual actions of two bodies upon each other are always equal and directed to contrary parts. …This law takes place also in attractions…
A/N: Many thanks to the conspiracy of ladies who requested that I tell them a bedtime story.
NOTE: This particular AU takes place after HBP and ignores entirely DH.Thanks to MollysSister for reminding me to clarify.
They're like two alley cats. She watched them circle each other. She imagined them with lashing tails and giggled. The potion Snape had given her had made her light-headed, but the pain had faded until it barely registered.
If they're cats, I suppose that makes me the mouse. She giggled again. "Mouse."
They both turned to regard her with glittering eyes. She swallowed her laughter, suddenly remembering Crookshanks in the kitchen. She had no wish to be devoured by the two furious men across from her.
Don't I? The thought came unbidden and with it all the potential she had ignored. Not ignored, denied. She swallowed heavily.
"I want to go to bed," she said, more truthful than she'd wished to be.
"That would be best." Snape was all business.
"I will take her," Sirius said, his sly wink telling her that he knew exactly the sort of reaction his assertion would cause.
"Take, take, take," she chirped, unable to stop herself. What was in that potion?
"The hell you will. I think you've taken liberties enough tonight." Snape snapped, stepping between them. "Perhaps you should return to your kennel."
"It seems the light is no longer an issue," Sirius looked around the room. "I think I'll take up residence in my old chambers."
Snape's hand twitched towards his wand. Sirius had rooms down the hall from hers.
"Sleep where you want. But her room will be warded."
"Such concern for a girl you've never liked," Sirius chided. "Neither you nor Hermione need fear for what I might do under cover of night. I have every intention of sleeping."
"Sleeep," she said, eyelids drooping. "Want."
"Pleasant dreams, Hermione," Sirius smiled at her, then turned and left the room.
Severus lifted her gently. Her head fell against his arm. He smelled of darker things than Sirius, moss and leather and something else she couldn't identify. His body was harder, leaner, not the sort one could snuggle up to. She found herself doing just that. Guess you can. She floated down the hallway in his arms, the faint whiff of bergamot tickling her nose each time he exhaled. She wondered if his kisses tasted of it.
"Kiss," she murmured as he set her on her feet. She leaned into him. He was so warm.
"I gave you too much." He shook his head, pulling down the covers as he steadied her. "You should take off your jeans before you get in."
She flopped down on the bed. "Off, off, off" she chanted, fumbling with the button. She looked at him. He was a bit blurry. "Help?"
"I..." His loss of words amused her.
"Help. Off." She tried to lift her feet, but her muscles wouldn't obey.
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He sighed, pushing her legs down. Long fingers made short work of the fastenings. Supporting her back, he lifted her enough to slide her trousers off, trying very hard not to notice her scandalously brief knickers. He pulled the covers up.
"Someday, you'll want to do that," she mumbled as she drifted off to sleep.
He looked down at her, splayed across the bed, relaxed in sleep. Her hair was a tangled mess. He wanted to run his fingers through it until they snagged, pull her head back and mark her neck. He did not need to wait for someday. He had wanted to take off her clothes since he'd seen her in the library. He wanted to revel in the feel of her skin against his, bury himself in her, pound her until she screamed his name. He shook off the image. She was not the sort to play his games, and he would not touch anyone who had been drugged, much less this girl. He'd mixed the potion in haste and without proper stores. Done properly, it would keep her from remembering most of the night. If she forgot the last thing she'd said to him, it would be enough. He closed the door and set the wards.
------
Two men lay in darkened rooms, tortured by their thoughts, their desires, the past. Hermione snuggled deeper under the quilt, safe from memory and dreams.
She awoke to sunlight flooding the room. She kicked off the covers, swinging her feet over the bed. The barest twinge in her back brought memories of the night. Hazy memories. She frowned, rubbing her temples. She could not recall getting into bed.
She walked gingerly to the chair where she had thrown her jeans. It wasn't like her to do that. She contemplated taking a hot bath, but chose to get dressed. Bathing could wait. She wanted a cup of strong coffee. That was one good thing the American had shown her.
Clinging to the banister, she made her way slowly down the stairs. The pain was slight. She remembered lugging the screen up the stairs. Why had she done that? For Sirius. She halted to keep from tumbling the rest of the way down the stairs. Bloody hell. If she let herself fall down the stairs, she might break her neck. Surely that was better than facing Snape after he'd caught her in full snog. Then again, if she died, she wouldn't have the chance to find out what Sirius might have done next. There was nothing for it but to live. She took a deep breath and continued her slow descent.
Her prayers for an empty kitchen had gone unanswered. Snape sat at the table, reading. She stifled her curiosity, refusing to look at the book. He ignored her, not even bothering to make his usual protest about the vile smell of her coffee. She could have used magic to hasten the process, but it never tasted right that way. She waited for the slow dripping to cease, the silence deepening with each passing minute.
I need a French press. She snorted softly. She wasn't likely to find one in Hogsmeade. Perhaps her internment would abate before it was time to board the train. She shook her head. There would be no time. Soon the house would be full of too many people, all wanting to tell her about the World Cup. She might be able to get her revenge by attempting to explain football the real sort or the thuggery of the American debacle, the point of which she still could not fathom but that would hardly result in the delightful shopping trip she imagined in perfectly normal London. While she daydreamed, the coffee finished brewing.
She filled her cup and walked out of the room, trying to keep from wincing. She could not bear it if he expressed concern or worse, sympathy. Her anxiety was for naught. He continued to pretend she did not exist. She left him sitting at the table with his cold tea and dry toast.
For once, the library was hers alone. She sank into the armchair and sipped her coffee, letting her gaze wander over the shelves. So many books. So much to explore. He had kept her from her passion, forcing her to sneak in early in the morning, banishing her to a room where she could not protest interruption.
You did it to yourself. She tried to deny it, but lying had never been her strong suit. She had stayed away because she feared him. Not what he could do, nor what he been to her all those years when she could never do the right thing in his eyes, but who he was under the layers of secrecy and contempt. At Hogwarts, she had seen hints of it, flashes in unguarded moments when he had not known she drew near. Nothing had prepared her for the onslaught of his humanity in a place he felt relatively safe. I will not pity him. She doubted he would give her the chance.
She returned to perusing the books. Most titles had been rejected in her initial search, perhaps too quickly. The aspect missing from her spell did not magically appear. Perhaps if she looked at them in reverse order, a solution would present itself. She scanned the shelf where the last of the books belonged. One was missing.
Snape was even now reading it, she was sure, attempting to sniff out her purpose. He could do it if anyone could. Hermione was not like others, blinded into thinking he was only good at potions and intimidation. When he showed up where he was least wanted, it was by design. She had realized that early on, but attempts to explain it to Ron and Harry had been met by accusations of paranoia followed by merciless teasing about her being sweet on Snape. Subtleties escaped them more often than not. She doubted that would ever change.
Her empty cup provided an excuse to return to the kitchen. She rose, stretching slowly. The aches were fading far faster than she had expected, even with the help of the healing potion. Her head was still a bit muzzy. More coffee was definitely in order. Pathetic. She knew why she wanted to return to the kitchen, and it had precious little to do with books or coffee.
When she walked into the kitchen, it was empty save for Crookshanks, who was hunkered down, one paw in the mouse hole. She imagined the poor mouse, pressed back against the wall, terrified of the inevitable. Her attempts to shoo the cat were futile. It would play out as expected. She sighed.
The book lay open on the table. She glanced quickly at the doorway, then cautiously approached. He wasn't one to play jokes, but she wouldn't put it past him to do something to humiliate her or at the very least teach her a lesson. She scanned the pages and frowned. The book had nothing to do with her research. He could have left it as a red herring Does he know what that is? but she didn't think that was the sort of game he enjoyed.
She left the book where it was and poured another cup of coffee. Crookshanks wandered off, bored without the opportunity for a kill. The plate with the remnants of Snape's toast sat on the counter. She removed a corner and tossed it into the hole. She wouldn't tempt the poor thing out if there was a chance he would get caught. She interpreted the surprised squeak as a thank you. Something good had come of the morning.
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Severus stood in the library, perusing the shelves. She would have to come back if she was to work on her research. Until this morning, she had always managed to arrive before him and disappear as he approached. Perhaps he should dose her with another potion tonight. Despicable. He would simply have to rise to the occasion tomorrow and every day thereafter.
He was correct about the spell involving motion. One component involved air, though used in a way he'd not considered previously. He was fairly certain heat would be used, but not fire. That was where the subtlety lay. The third part would need to be something that kept the air from cooling or fanning the heat. Or perhaps not. She was far too clever to make his quest easy.
The slightest sound prompted him to turn his head, expectation rising, only to be quickly squelched.
"Sirius." His greeting could not be taken as an invitation.
"Snape. Here for some light reading? Or merely lying in wait?"
"Research." He'd had years of enduring the wretch's taunts. They meant nothing to him now. "I had expected you would be brooding in your rooms, as usual."
"Hate to disappoint you, but all that has changed. As I can tolerate the light, I no longer feel the need to hide."
"I wonder how long that will last when the world discovers your return."
"I doubt that will happen. Too difficult for the Ministry to explain. When the time comes, I will disappear."
"You might consider an early start." Severus pulled out the book before him, not bothering to check the title, and strode from the room.
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She finished tidying the kitchen, knowing it was only a stalling tactic. He would be waiting in the library, likely holding the missing book. He would smile at her, a challenge, and she would do nothing. She straightened her shoulders. She was many things, but never a coward. She stomped back to the library, defiant.
He was sitting in the chair, the book resting on his lap, head tilted back to get the full sun on his face. His stunning, perfect face. She stopped, fearing her movement would break the tableau. She wanted nothing less. Her gaze wandered over his naked chest, the smooth expanse of his stomach, the slight arch of his back, the length of his legs, powerful even at rest. She could not forget the feel of his skin on hers. To do that again. She wanted nothing more.
Sirius lifted his head, grey eyes fixed on her, pinning her where she stood. She barely kept from gulping for air. His breathing was slow, measured. He smiled, licking his lips like the cat who had already devoured the canary and was looking for a morsel to finish his meal.
"Come in, Hermione." Lazy words rubbed against her. "It is what you'd intended. You don't have to hesitate on my account."
"I didn't mean to disturb you."
"You didn't. I was waiting for you." He let his gaze wander over her. It was no less paralyzing. "I wanted to know how you feel."
Words failed her.
"After your mishap," he added.
She sighed. Last night must have been a fluke. "There's some pain, but nothing that can't be endured."
She managed to stand upright, breathing a sigh of relief when he looked past her. She turned her head to discover what had made his eyes flash so fast she had almost missed it but there was nothing in the hall behind her.
"Perhaps I can help you with that." His voice pulled her back.
"I should be right in a couple of days. The potion worked well. It would, of course. He's quite brilliant." She clamped her mouth shut.
His smile faded. "He is... accomplished, in his areas."
"What are you reading?" she asked, desperate to change the topic. Very subtle, like a brick to the head. She wished she had one so she could put herself out of her misery, if only for awhile.
"You should recognize it, Hermione. You've read it recently."
"How did you know that? You were..." She pointed up. He stared at her. This really was not going well.
"Your scent is all over it. Odd, I had expected to find it everywhere in this room, but it was only on a few volumes." He furrowed his brows.
She swallowed, breath shaky. "My scent?"
"Mmmm. Very distinct. Wood flowers and mown grass, with a slight overlay of musty old books. That last is difficult to detect in a library, as you might imagine. It's much more complex than that, of course."
"My scent." She felt a right fool, but she could not understand how books, some of them hundreds of years old, could smell like her.
"Months in the dark improved my already heightened sense of smell. I could point to every book you've held since you've been here, though the ones most recently handled would be easier to find. It should be interesting to see what else you've been delving into." The corners of his mouth twitched, as if listening to a private joke.
"There must be a spell that would do the same thing," she mused.
"I would imagine there is, or could be, but I doubt it would work quite as well." He placed the book on the end table.
"What do you mean?"
"I don't know that a spell could be tailored to deliver as much information as a naturally enhanced sense."
"What sort of information?" Her question was rote, half her mind already devoted to what might be involved in creating the spell.
"Well," he said, rising, "I doubt that a spell would tell me that you are excited and curious possibly the same thing with you or that under it all is barely acknowledged fear." He stood in front of her, heat pouring off his chest.
"I am not afraid."
"Not of me, though perhaps you should be." He put his arm around her waist and pulled her closer. The pain disappeared as he slid his hand up her back.
"I have no reason to fear you." She looked up into his eyes. They had gone silver.
"No?" He kissed her. "That's good, if a bit naive."
She had trouble catching her breath. "Sirius, I "
"Need to study," he finished. "I'm no help to you there. I was an average student, at best." He kissed her forehead. "Though I was good at some things." He left her leaning against the door frame.
She stumbled to the chair and dropped into it with no hint of grace. Her hand fell on the book. He'd had it open to the page she had used to form the middle of the spell. Maybe she should be afraid of him just a little.
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Latest 25 Reviews for Just a Little Bit
214 Reviews | 6.9/10 Average
Wow, what a tale. I have to admit, i stumbled onto this merely by accident and was swarn through each chapter like moth caught in the light of a candle. Some of it was too confusing, but the story itself held me. I truly think that Sirius had an unwordly understanding, insight that came from living twice. It's odd. this feels like an ending - but yet also like a beginning. I carve more and yet can see in my mind that Harry wins, Severus and Hermione unite, forever a couple. Thank you for this story and the imagery. I did enjoy it very much.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you so much for reading the story! It was confusing, but physics (and love) is often like that. Sirius did, at the last, prove his love - mostly by letting it go. If you want a wee bit of epilogue (and hope for the happy ending), you might read "Death Shall Have No Dominion", as it explains how Snape did, in fact, survive after the snake bite. :)
She sure bounced from one bed to another. I still feel that Severus recieved far more from her than Sirius did. Severus reached out in need and desire to fill her need, not to jsut use her. There is a beauty to his way, and I hope they don't trun away from this beginning.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Well, considering the strength of personality of both rather amazing men, I'm not surprised she took what was offered, and pushed for more. She does love them both, albeit differently. Severus stood aside for Sirius, and sent him to her, because she needed a summer fling that didn't leave her bitter. He plans for the long term, however unlikely he feels that may be. In his own way, he used Sirius to free Hermione so she might be able to accept him, and Sirius was fully aware of his part in that. His motives may have been good, but it was still a calculating thing to do. Doesn't change how much he loves her, protest though he might.
The spell, how it was cast, was beautiful and alarming. The tie shifting to Severus - I expected her to rage and fume over the interferance. I'm still unsure what exactly the spell did or is, BUt now she's done it can you every undo or go back as if it wasn't completed. It's in her and part of her. SHe'll remember. Even Severus might.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Oh, they will all remember. With any luck, no one will ever find out what she just did. It was meant to hide Sirius, to free him, and it did that. She tacked on the location spell as a way to ensure she could find him. Quite obviously, the men thought this a bad idea, and used her own theory to circumvent that part of the spell. Severus can find Sirius, which may be necessary if Sirius gets out of control. They think themselves clever. Silly men.Thank you for another delightful review!
What is this spell she is tryiing to do? I don't get that part.I don' t know how I think about the way Sirius is using her. The way he stalks her. I think Severus is the better wizard in this one.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
The spell will be explained, I promise. It is very, very complex and she can't reveal what she hopes to do with it until the time is right.I don't think Sirius is stalking her. She came to him, after all, and made her decision of her own free will. What happened after that surprised him as much as her - hence, his apology. Inasmuch as he is capable of it, he does love her. Otherwise, he wouldn't have worried about transfiguring her clothes or dispensing with his mother's portrait. Considering that he has become a magical being unlike any that has existed to this point, he's still feeling his way around what he can, or should, do. It's why he knows he has to leave and not take her with him. He's too dangerous to be around for long.As for Severus, he has his own agenda, which will become more clear as the story progresses. While he, too, loves her, he is no more free to pursue a relationship with her than Sirius is. They are each stuck with the hand they've been dealt. The only thing to do is try to alter it - just a little bit. ;)
his discovery in the mirror was interesting. His taking advantage of her intriguing, especially since she let him, even encouraged him.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you for the thoughtful review and the shinies.I don't know if he took advantage of her so much as acted on a desire that came from having someone treat him as human after so long. The fact that she reacted to their physical closeness when he picked her up in the dark would not have escaped him, though he'd dismissed it. She was the one who pressed for more (and who could blame her, with his beauty returned?) and responded with open desire. Still, there was something cruel in his using her to upset Severus. Some habits die hard, I guess.
So she broke Severus down (a little) and got him to open up to her. I loved the tension you built into this chapter.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you! I don't know who was more broken by the end of that, but I doubt either would complain! :)
I like the dichotomy of the gifts - Severus actually did something to protect her little mouse while Sirius left her with a keepsake of their time spent together. Says quite a bit about their personalities.Wordsmithing is an artform, so I was glad that Hermione was tickled during her conversation with Arthur. If she was previously incapable of telling a believeable lie, it was only because she hadn't learned to lie with the truth. A carefully delivered truth is always the best lie. Severus gave her another useful gift with that lesson.I have to agree with Ginny, the tat is cool. I really like the graphic of it in the last chapter.Finally, speaking of wordsmithing, I REALLY like the way you've incorporated the title within the dialogue of the characters. Each significant change, be it the spell or the interaction of the characters themselves, was done in the name of caring, protection, and ultimately - love. A little bit of each.Thank you for a wonderful tale, a missing moment of vast proportions, if you will.~
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you so much! You are very kind. Hermione's interaction with Arthur was more fun to write than I'd expected it to be. I think she learned a great deal from both of her housemates. You are right that they all acted out of love, albeit different sorts.I am glad you enjoyed the story.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you so much! You are very kind. Hermione's interaction with Arthur was more fun to write than I'd expected it to be. I think she learned a great deal from both of her housemates. You are right that they all acted out of love, albeit different sorts.I am glad you enjoyed the story.
I finally managed to read the last chap. It's somewhat anticlimatic for me. Do you consider a short sequel, giving us your version about the impact of the chaos-spell to the outcome of the war? You see I like to have it spelled out to me. Though I'm not really against open endings, they help to improve the imagination. Thanks a lot for this highly creative story.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thanks for the review and for reading through the whole thing. I know it was a bit convoluted. I purposely made the end of the story fit into DH. Since Harry was, ultimately, able to defeat Voldemort, the spell didn't come into play. That does leave it open, as Hermione still has it on her ankle and Sirius is still loose in the world. If I was to write a sequel, I think it would be a romp across the globe, with Sirius getting ever stronger and Severus having to chase him down. I don't think I'm ready to do that yet. But I appreciate the encouragement!
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thanks for the review and for reading through the whole thing. I know it was a bit convoluted. I purposely made the end of the story fit into DH. Since Harry was, ultimately, able to defeat Voldemort, the spell didn't come into play. That does leave it open, as Hermione still has it on her ankle and Sirius is still loose in the world. If I was to write a sequel, I think it would be a romp across the globe, with Sirius getting ever stronger and Severus having to chase him down. I don't think I'm ready to do that yet. But I appreciate the encouragement!
I feel like I am out of breath, I've just caught up with this story. I don't know why I waited so long to start it, this is fantastic. I do have to ask if you could clarify for me how Hermione feels about Sirius if she loves Severus (and apparently has for sometime) why was she so distruaght with what Sirius did? It seemed a bit overly emotional for just a friends with benefits relationship, and add seducing and telling Severus she loves him perhaps not less than a few hours later? Is it because she is so sensitive to his magic? I may have missed something in reading so quickly, so if you could help my poor feeble brain comprehend I would greatly appreciate it.I look forward to your next update!
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thanks! I'm glad you decided to give it a try.Hermione loves both men, but very differently. She was upset with Sirius for taking her ability to find him, not because she is in love with him but because she thinks he needs her. (Okay, also because he's way hot, but she recently figured out that's not enough to make her happy.) She has proven she is a safe vessel for the overflow of his magic. The early morning tryst was an attempt to help him figure out how to control the magic, which was somewhat successful, but she worries he won't always be able to do that (control it, that is). Obviously, he's worried about that, too, but neither he nor Snape will tell her about their contingency plan if it turns out Sirius is unable to stabilize.Considering that she started out with a very secret schoolgirl crush on her professor, it's not surprising that her feelings for Severus run a little deeper. She told him she loves him because she does. She figured that she might not ever get the chance to be with him again, so seducing him (in her sweet and slightly inept way) seemed the thing to do.
Response from Isode (Reviewer)
Thanks for the clarification. I really did read this quickly, getting time on the computer in my house has become difficult lately and my only options are to read before heading to work or really late at night.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thanks! I'm glad you decided to give it a try.Hermione loves both men, but very differently. She was upset with Sirius for taking her ability to find him, not because she is in love with him but because she thinks he needs her. (Okay, also because he's way hot, but she recently figured out that's not enough to make her happy.) She has proven she is a safe vessel for the overflow of his magic. The early morning tryst was an attempt to help him figure out how to control the magic, which was somewhat successful, but she worries he won't always be able to do that (control it, that is). Obviously, he's worried about that, too, but neither he nor Snape will tell her about their contingency plan if it turns out Sirius is unable to stabilize.Considering that she started out with a very secret schoolgirl crush on her professor, it's not surprising that her feelings for Severus run a little deeper. She told him she loves him because she does. She figured that she might not ever get the chance to be with him again, so seducing him (in her sweet and slightly inept way) seemed the thing to do.
Response from Isode (Reviewer)
Thanks for the clarification. I really did read this quickly, getting time on the computer in my house has become difficult lately and my only options are to read before heading to work or really late at night.
How does he feel about her? Does she know? Are they going to risk being back at Hogwarts?
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
I don't know that he'll tell her how he feels about her, but she does hope that he'll get around to it. As for the risks, neither of them is in a good place to be taking them, so I suppose it depends on who ends up where.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
I don't know that he'll tell her how he feels about her, but she does hope that he'll get around to it. As for the risks, neither of them is in a good place to be taking them, so I suppose it depends on who ends up where.
Oh, that was mean of you. You supply them with a new quandary, which definitively shut down the sulks from his grumpiness and places Hermione at a higher level of danger - one that was supposed to have been avoided with Severus and Sirius' previous actions.And then you attempt to distract me from the fact with a rather lovely piece of 'interlude'.Not working... Wants details...*pouts*Just kidding. This was a great update and you just raised the tension level another notch. I'm thinking it may not be possible for her to stay and go back to Hogwarts as planned now. I'll be honest and say that I want the next installment, like oh, yesterday, LOL!Happy writing!~
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Darn. If that won't work to distract you, what will?? ;)I have to tweak the last bit, but it shouldn't take too long. And you are quite insightful and generally right.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Darn. If that won't work to distract you, what will?? ;)I have to tweak the last bit, but it shouldn't take too long. And you are quite insightful and generally right.
yay...finally. lovely coupling. thanks so much
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Quite welcome. :)
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Quite welcome. :)
Okay, now Hermione has the ability to find Sirius, too? And why is this a deadly spell?
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
The spell is deadly because it allows the caster(s) to change the intent of another person's magic. It doesn't give her the ability to find Sirius. It gave him the ability to change HER intent in that moment. If three other people got together and did the spell, they could direct it outward (instead of at each other) and subtly change a spell being cast or an ongoing spell - such as the protections on Hogwarts. That was what Sirius warned her about in the library, and the reason Severus wanted the spell destroyed.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
The spell is deadly because it allows the caster(s) to change the intent of another person's magic. It doesn't give her the ability to find Sirius. It gave him the ability to change HER intent in that moment. If three other people got together and did the spell, they could direct it outward (instead of at each other) and subtly change a spell being cast or an ongoing spell - such as the protections on Hogwarts. That was what Sirius warned her about in the library, and the reason Severus wanted the spell destroyed.
Nice chapter, although Severus having the ability to track Sirius gives me the shivers.Somehow I wonder if Sirius will be back for a daring Gryffindor moment...
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thanks! I think Sirius knew what he was about. I'm fairly sure Severus won't go after him unless it becomes absolutely necessary. I would imagine Sirius would do what he could in the war effort but I don't know that he'd show his face to do it at this point.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thanks! I think Sirius knew what he was about. I'm fairly sure Severus won't go after him unless it becomes absolutely necessary. I would imagine Sirius would do what he could in the war effort but I don't know that he'd show his face to do it at this point.
You are such a talented storyteller!
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you very much! That means so much to me.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you very much! That means so much to me.
This is a very powerful chapter. I wish Sirius wasn't gone. Brilliant as always.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you! He had to go away, for so many reasons. With any luck, he'll find a way to be happy. And, knowing him, he'll find his way back eventually.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you! He had to go away, for so many reasons. With any luck, he'll find a way to be happy. And, knowing him, he'll find his way back eventually.
wow...that left me breathless. i am all agog to see where this is going. thanks so much.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thanks! I hope you are breathing normally again - though I won't promise that will continue when the next one posts... It's in the queue.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thanks! I hope you are breathing normally again - though I won't promise that will continue when the next one posts... It's in the queue.
Oh that was just stunning. I really enjoyed every moment. There was something subtle and gentle about the whole thing and just made it lovely to read. I like that Severus and Sirius made a certain peace with each other, and I love the interactions between all three of them. What a lovely read. :) Thank you for sharing it.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you so much! I am glad you're enjoying it. I tried to keep them true to character, with all the complexities that would entail. I'm pleased it works for you. :)There's a bit more to come, so stay tuned!
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you so much! I am glad you're enjoying it. I tried to keep them true to character, with all the complexities that would entail. I'm pleased it works for you. :)There's a bit more to come, so stay tuned!
So, the spell is complete and our divine Puck is loosed upon the world, free to make benevolent mischief with Snape as his fail-safe.Sirius has held Severus to his word and guaranteed that he will be able to locate him if needed, to stop him if necessary, by taking over and turning the one component of the spell that would have allowed Hermione to recognise and know where he was at any time. This was his gift to her and Severus - removing the burden of knowledge from her and providing Severus a clear opportunity to have Hermione to himself. Poor Hermione is not happy with being the recipient of Sirius' gift from the look of things.And to complicate matters, she insists on walking where angels fear to tread by pushing Severus with that question, possibly jeopardising their budding relationship.Mercy! Just a little bit, indeed...I have absolutely enjoyed the interaction of these three. I'd have never thought to put them together because any combination of these canon characters is a bit volatile if they are kept in character.You have managed this task masterfully, dear author. This story is a treat. I look forward to the next update. Until then, happy writing!~
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Wow. Thank you! Yes, to eveyrthing you said about what happened. I will refer any questions about this chapter to your review! LOL. I am glad you are enjoying the story. It was difficult to find a way to keep Sirius and Severus close enough to do what needed to be done yet far enough apart to not kill each other. Obviously, Hermione is the catalyst for their ability to be civil with one another, if barely.Stay tuned for the aftermath. ;)
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Wow. Thank you! Yes, to eveyrthing you said about what happened. I will refer any questions about this chapter to your review! LOL. I am glad you are enjoying the story. It was difficult to find a way to keep Sirius and Severus close enough to do what needed to be done yet far enough apart to not kill each other. Obviously, Hermione is the catalyst for their ability to be civil with one another, if barely.Stay tuned for the aftermath. ;)
Powerful stuff. And even though he answered her question honestly, he did it in a way that if taken out of context it would not seem to be a lie or truth.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you! Snape is very good at telling the truth and revealing nothing, a skill Hermione might find useful, all things considered.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Thank you! Snape is very good at telling the truth and revealing nothing, a skill Hermione might find useful, all things considered.
Great story, although I'm no longer sure what is happening.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
A common thread, for which I apologize. I've edited the chapter in hopes of making it clearer. At the end of the spell, Sirius' magic was hidden from everyone, including Hermione, and Snape had the ability to find Sirius wherever he might be.
Response from makaem (Reviewer)
I should have clarified, I need to go back and reread the story. A couple of months ago, I decided I wouldn't start any new stories until the other ones I was reading wrapped up-- that lasted about 48 hours. But it means I sometimes don't give stories the full attention they deserve. Some stories are less predictable than others and require a more active role on the part of the reader, this is one of those stories. Plus, I don't mind being confused, it increases my enjoyment for the moment things all come together.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
A common thread, for which I apologize. I've edited the chapter in hopes of making it clearer. At the end of the spell, Sirius' magic was hidden from everyone, including Hermione, and Snape had the ability to find Sirius wherever he might be.
Response from makaem (Reviewer)
I should have clarified, I need to go back and reread the story. A couple of months ago, I decided I wouldn't start any new stories until the other ones I was reading wrapped up-- that lasted about 48 hours. But it means I sometimes don't give stories the full attention they deserve. Some stories are less predictable than others and require a more active role on the part of the reader, this is one of those stories. Plus, I don't mind being confused, it increases my enjoyment for the moment things all come together.
You're way above my head, girl. But I trust that I will get it eventually!
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
You weren't alone! I apparently failed to explain it well enough throughout the story. I've gone back and edited the explanations for the individual spells, which I hope will help. Basically, Snape hid Sirius' magic and Sirius counteracted Hermione's spell to locate him, giving that ability to Snape instead.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
You weren't alone! I apparently failed to explain it well enough throughout the story. I've gone back and edited the explanations for the individual spells, which I hope will help. Basically, Snape hid Sirius' magic and Sirius counteracted Hermione's spell to locate him, giving that ability to Snape instead.
I may have to re-read this, but I must admit that I don't really understand what they did.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
I have added the explanations in text. They did what they all had promised. Snape hid Sirius' magic. Hermione tried to ensure she could find Sirius, and Sirius perverted that intention and gave the ability to Snape instead. I hope that helps!
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
I have added the explanations in text. They did what they all had promised. Snape hid Sirius' magic. Hermione tried to ensure she could find Sirius, and Sirius perverted that intention and gave the ability to Snape instead. I hope that helps!
I don't get it. The online translator I used for the spells said: Fieri One for Hermione's (is that even in English?), Hide Footsteps for Snape's spell, Place Eternal for Hermione's, Punish Objection for Sirius's and One Upon Trio for Hermione's. What happened there? I hope we will find out in chapters to come.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Make One. - the three part of the spell melded.Hide Traces - Snape cloaked Sirius' magic.Find Forever - Hermione's attempt to keep track of Sirius.Contradict - Sirius' removed Hermione's ability to find him.One into Three - to end the spell so the parts were separate.I went back and added the explanations, as it was apparently not as clear in print as it was in my head. Apologies for that.
Response from nata (Reviewer)
Thank you for that. Now it certainly makes sense.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Make One. - the three part of the spell melded.Hide Traces - Snape cloaked Sirius' magic.Find Forever - Hermione's attempt to keep track of Sirius.Contradict - Sirius' removed Hermione's ability to find him.One into Three - to end the spell so the parts were separate.I went back and added the explanations, as it was apparently not as clear in print as it was in my head. Apologies for that.
Response from nata (Reviewer)
Thank you for that. Now it certainly makes sense.
You will have to forgive me? Does Snape now have Sirrius' magic? or just the ability to track him?Nicely done. Nice twist on the question.
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Just the ability to track him. Forever. Just thinking about Severus with that sort of power makes me shiver.Thank you. I was going for a particularly Snape-ish answer and consulted with experts on the wording. If Snape was a Muggle, he'd make a good lawyer. Or a bad one, depending on your perspective. ;)
Response from Melenka (Author of Just a Little Bit)
Just the ability to track him. Forever. Just thinking about Severus with that sort of power makes me shiver.Thank you. I was going for a particularly Snape-ish answer and consulted with experts on the wording. If Snape was a Muggle, he'd make a good lawyer. Or a bad one, depending on your perspective. ;)