Chapter Sixty-One: Late Night Advice
Chapter 62 of 118
MMADfanSaturday, 20 March 1999, in the wee hours of the morning.
Severus informs the Headmistress of the attack on Lucius, then he receives some personal advice from her.
Chapter Sixty-One: Late Night Advice
Saturday, 20 March 1999, in the wee hours of the morning
"Sorry, Severus," Minerva said drily, handing him a teacup. "That was Albus's idea of late-night humour."
Albus had Summoned his bunny slippers from the library and gone upstairs ahead of them. Minerva had decided she didn't feel comfortable sitting in her office with Severus whilst wearing only a Transfigured bathrobe and not even anything on her feet, so she invited the younger wizard to wait for her in her sitting room. She was now fairly respectably attired in her usual nightgown, dressing gown, and slippers, with a shawl around her shoulders for good measure.
"The, um, clothes?" Severus asked.
"No, opening the door before I was ready to greet you...and whilst he was wearing my old teaching robe, too, I suppose."
"I'm sorry if I interrupted anything. I would have been happy to return in the morning."
"No, this was fine. We were just thinking of retiring for the night when you dropped by."
"I saw your office light on and simply assumed you were working," Severus continued, clearly uncomfortable.
"That was a reasonable assumption, and it really was fine," Minerva repeated. "But it is late. Was there something in particular?"
"Of course, yes." Severus was still not completely over the shock of finding Albus wearing a too-small witch's over-robe...and with the end of a long blue sash tied in a knot around one of his wrists, as well. He simply did not want to contemplate what those two got up to in private, and now he had yet another image that he would have liked to selectively Obliviate. On the other hand, it was rather reassuring to him to know that one of the most powerful wizards in history appeared to enjoy being tied up by his wife. It was not as reassuring to realise that that powerful wizard apparently also enjoyed dressing in his wife's robes. And that she let him.
"And that was?" Minerva prodded.
"Oh, yes, well, I don't know if you've heard yet, but I learned this evening that Lucius Malfoy was attacked in his home," Severus said, trying to redirect his mind away from thoughts of Dumbledore's garb and focus it on the business at hand. "That is, I don't know that it was Malfoy, just that there was an attack on a known Death Eater, but I believe it was he from the description and . . . and such."
Minerva put down her cup of peppermint tea. "Where did you hear this? Was it just a barroom rumour?"
Severus shook his head. "No. Auror Shakira Plummer sat at our table. She was at the scene in Leeds. And when she mentioned the wizard's wife and that she was unharmed, Plummer looked directly at me, as if she knew that the attack on them might have some . . . resonance for me."
"Yes, I can see that." She took in a breath. "I suppose the first thing to do is to confirm the identity of the victim. I will do that first thing in the morning. We won't let out any details that the Ministry doesn't want released...we don't want to put the Malfoys or anyone else in greater danger...but if it was Malfoy, then young Mal er, Mr Newman should be informed. Lucius is still his father, and he should know."
Severus nodded. "I agree, and he will no doubt wish to see his mother. They are very close, I understand. But beyond that, I think that it might be wise to increase the daytime perimeter wards, perhaps keep the same level of security as we have at night and during holidays. It might be awkward for legitimate visitors, but between Rath and Shunpike, no one should have to wait very long at the gates. I also think that we should raise higher wards. I dislike the thought that someone could so easily fly over the walls."
"I believe that would require a variance from the Ministry, unless Hogwarts is already exempt. I'll have to look at a few documents or ask Albus," Minerva said, "and we would have to have some kind of warning system. Few people may actually fly across the grounds, but everyone is used to the idea that it is possible. It wouldn't do to have people crashing their broomsticks on their way to Hogsmeade. There is also the problem of flying beasts. We can't simply ward against everything that flies, whether it's a mundane bird or a Thestral or Hippogriff. It would either have to be specific to broomsticks or to humans. I will need to consult with Albus about which is more difficult to tune for. I doubt that we'll have a problem getting a variance, if one is required, and then you and he can work on the wards together. I'll seal them and integrate them with the primary wards, but I'll leave the major work to you to.
"As for the other suggestion, that's fine. Before I go to bed tonight, I will change the ward structure so that the periphery wards don't reset in the morning." She sighed and shook her head. "I had hoped that after the war, we could relax a little, perhaps go back to some of the ways things were when I was a young girl, before Grindelwald, before Riddle . . ."
"I don't think we'll ever be able to go back to having people able to Apparate and Disapparate freely on the grounds," Severus said. "It might be possible someday to return to easier access on foot during the day, though. Just not yet."
Minerva nodded soberly. "There are too many potential targets here at the school...regardless of how innocent most of those targets may be. I will also alert Zabini without going into detail. He might wish to increase the security at his estate, as he is known to have taken in Slytherins regardless of their families' affiliations."
"A wise idea, although I have little doubt that he has not already taken such measures."
"There's also Hogsmeade weekends to consider," Minerva said, "but we will wait and discuss that at a Heads' meeting. I'll call one for Sunday afternoon."
"Could you make that early Sunday morning instead? Or sometime tomorrow?" Severus asked, suddenly remembering his date, such as it was, with Helena.
"Of course. You have plans?"
Severus nodded but did not elaborate.
"That brings me to a more sensitive subject," Minerva said slowly. "You. Have you considered your own safety, Severus?"
Severus shrugged. "I believe I am relatively safe, and I am quite capable of defending myself." He hesitated.
"Yes? What is it? Are you keeping something from me?"
"No, no, not precisely." He frowned. "It was probably nothing, but tonight on the high street on my way through Hogsmeade, I had the sudden sense that I was being watched . . . or followed. It was very late, the street was fairly deserted at that end...I was on the far side of the village, you see, not near the Three Broomsticks. There was no one whom I could see, but . . . It was probably nothing, but I Disapparated immediately, and no one followed me to the gates."
Minerva's brow furrowed. "I trust your senses more than you do, perhaps, Severus. I am glad you were cautious and Disapparated. I am not sure whether you should be leaving the grounds, at least not alone."
Severus stiffened. "I will not be made a prisoner here, or babysat, either. And I do finally have something of that social life you're always trying to encourage me to have."
"All right, as long as you're careful. I don't want to keep you in a gilded cage." She smiled. "So, you are getting out more! That's nice. I was glad to see that you went out with your colleagues tonight...and came back quite late, too!"
"Yes, well, it was not entirely agreeable, but after the Broomsticks, I spent a little time with someone else, and . . ." He shrugged.
"A romantic interest? Miss Granger, perhaps?" Minerva asked.
"Not a romantic interest, and not Miss Granger," Severus replied, keeping himself from snapping at her for her curiosity about his private life. He did, after all, want her opinion.
"Oh, well, that's still nice." Minerva was clearly curious still, bursting to ask him more about his evening, but restraining herself.
Severus quirked a smile. "You really are quite the feline sometimes, Minerva. All that curiosity trembling inside you."
"I can't help it...can you blame me?"
"No. Actually, if you want to know, I walked Helena Benetti home, and then we went for a bit of a night flight. It was fun. Just fun." He blushed. "Of course, she is quite something to watch when she flies."
"And even when she's not flying?"
"Of course, as any breathing heterosexual wizard over about the age of twelve has noticed, I'm sure," Severus said.
Minerva chuckled.
"I would like to believe I am not so superficial, however," Severus continued. "Although she is a very nice person and agreeable company. She has a pleasant accent, too."
"It sounds as though you might be interested in her."
Severus shook his head. "She is very attractive, and I had a nice time with her, but . . . she's a friend, I hope."
"You never know," Minerva said, a twinkle in her eye.
Severus shrugged and looked toward the bedroom door. "Can I speak to you about a personal matter, Minerva?" he asked softly.
"Of course!"
He looked at the bedroom door again. "It is rather . . . private."
"Ah. I don't believe that Albus can hear us or that he would eavesdrop, but I don't want you uncomfortable. Just a second." Minerva got up and crossed over to the bedroom, she leaned in, and Severus could hear her speaking. When she closed the door behind her, she waved her wand and cast an Imperturbable. Returning to her chair, she asked, "How's that?"
Severus nodded.
"What would you like to talk to me about?"
"I don't know if this is the best time . . ."
"It's fine. We can talk now and again tomorrow, if you like. You could come and have some tea with me, or we could meet after dinner."
Severus shrugged one shoulder. Now that he was there and had Minerva's attention, he had no idea what to say. "I don't know, Minerva. Perhaps this wasn't a good idea." He began to stand.
"Don't be silly, Severus. I'm happy to listen."
"Well, I . . . I'm confused," he confessed.
"About?"
Severus shifted in his chair. "Just about my social life, I suppose you could say."
"Your social life or your love life?" Minerva asked astutely.
Severus coloured. "The latter. I'm very confused."
"How so?"
"Well, I admit I am attracted to Helena. And if she were willing, it would be tempting to, um, have some kind of, well, just to get to know her better on a different level, but I realised that despite the temptation, I really didn't want to when it came down to it."
"That's not a surprise. We all of us...or most of us...find various people attractive at different times in our lives, but that doesn't mean that we want to have affairs with all of them," Minerva said. "And even if we might want an affair with one of them, it just might be that our desire for something else in our lives is greater than the temptation to engage in a relationship with the person we're attracted to...and this doesn't necessarily mean only when we already are in another relationship with someone else to whom we're committed. There are many factors that come into play. The desire for stability . . . contentment with our own lives as they already are . . . wanting not to complicate life by beginning a relationship that won't ultimately satisfy . . . many things. You can choose to be single, Severus. It might be a good thing just to enjoy your new friendships for a while."
Severus shook his head. "It wasn't any of that. Or if it was, none of that was as important as something else I suddenly realised on my way home. And that's why I'm confused."
"What did you realise?"
"I . . . I . . ." He couldn't say that he loved Poppy. He simply couldn't. "I have developed feelings for someone. But Hermione . . . I have no idea what I'm feeling half of the time, but I realised tonight that I have feelings for someone else, as well. It's all very confusing."
"For Poppy?" If Minerva was surprised, she didn't show it.
Severus nodded, avoiding Minerva's eyes.
"I understand that the two of you haven't been seeing as much of each other this week," Minerva said tactfully.
"She didn't want to, as you likely know already. We're still speaking, obviously, but she wanted to slow things down. Take a break, she said. So I abided by her wishes. I would have preferred something else, but I don't think she believed me."
"Try to see it from her point of view, Severus."
"Hmmph. I'm just a nasty bastard and she can't bear me any longer," Severus said, looking down at his half-empty teacup.
"I doubt that's it," Minerva said. "Really, Severus. Do try to think of her point-of-view."
"Did she tell you why?" Severus asked, looking back up at her.
Minerva sighed.
"Did she tell you why she didn't want to see me anymore?"
"I think you need to talk to her about it again. That might help. Unless you are confused about your desire to see her...perhaps you only want to see her because you can't."
Severus shook his head. "No, that's not it. I'm confused because I don't know how I can feel what I do for Poppy and still feel the way I think I do about Hermione." He let out a long sigh. "Not that things are right with Hermione, either. I hurt her feelings, so now she's just . . . she's not as warm as she used to be, or as . . . as open to me. And she's seeing someone else now. She had a date tonight."
"I'm sorry, Severus." Minerva took the last sip of her tea. "I don't know how to advise you, if it's advice you're seeking. Only you can determine how you feel about either of them. But if you want to see Poppy . . . are you interested in something more than a fling now? Is that what you want, or did you just want to maintain the status quo with Poppy? Because if you only want to . . . to satisfy your physical desire with her, I don't think..."
"No, it's not that. That's why I'm confused. Don't you see that, Minerva? I said I have feelings for her. It's not just the physical side of things," Severus said miserably. "I wish it were. It would be easier."
Minerva shrugged. "It still probably wouldn't be easy, Severus. Our feelings are very complicated, particularly once sex becomes involved." She reached over and patted his hand. "I am sorry you have been hurt by this. But perhaps it has been a good experience for you, particularly since you and Poppy are still on friendly terms. You didn't say or do anything that drove a wedge between you. Your first affair after the war could have been much worse."
"Poppy is a good woman," Severus said softly. "Kind and . . . good."
"That she is," Minerva agreed.
"I wish I hadn't ruined things."
"I don't think I would say you ruined them, Severus."
"I would. I behaved poorly toward her, entirely unjustly, and only the day after we had . . . we had gone out and had a good time, spent a lot of time together. It was so good. And I ruined it," he said morosely, remembering the intense sex they'd had that night after they'd returned from Delancie's. "She must have told you something about why she called an end to it. I'm just a bastard sometimes. Even to her." He sighed.
"But she cares about you, Severus," Minerva said gently. "That's something. She has cared about you for a long time. And how you are feeling now, perhaps it is just the recognition of that warmth between you. You can be good friends. Good friends are important in life."
Severus nodded, looking down, his hair hiding his face.
"Of course, if you would like to be more than friends . . ."
"I think I do. I know that I would if it weren't for the fact that I'm confused about what I feel for Hermione."
Minerva considered him a moment. "Well, I will give you this advice, confidentially and just between us. If you choose to share it, that's your decision, but I won't discuss our conversation with anyone else." Severus looked up at her and nodded. Minerva continued, "I think you should try to mend things with Poppy..."
"I already did. I apologised. I said I was very sorry. I said I was sorry and it didn't make any difference." Tears of anger and pain rose in his eyes. "It's because I am who I am, Minerva. Who I've always been. Even Poppy can't look past it."
"No, Severus. I'm sure that's not it. Poppy doesn't want either of you hurt. I am certain that she accepted your apology and forgave you. And as I said, you are still friends. You didn't do anything so egregious to drive her away completely. Now, do you want my advice, or would you prefer to mope and feel sorry for yourself and be more miserable?"
Severus scowled at her, but he knew she was being honest with him. "All right, what is it?"
"I think you should try to mend things with Poppy. If you are serious about wanting something more than just a physical relationship with her, if you want more than a fling, you need to go about it the right way. You two jumped into the physical side of things very quickly...and I'm not judging that...but you can certainly see that that influenced the way things developed and how they turned out. I will probably sound completely old-fashioned to you, but I believe my advice is sound: if you want to start seeing Poppy again, you should woo her."
"Woo her?" Severus nearly rolled his eyes. "I am not about to begin fawning over her and reciting poetry, behaving like the fool I was when the Adfectus struck."
"I'm not suggesting that, Severus. Think about it a minute before you reject my idea. Think about ways in which you could woo her that would be fitting your personality and hers. Do nice things for her, bring her small but thoughtful gifts, ask her on a date, for heaven's sake! And make sure she knows that it's a date and that you want to show her affection and a good time...a nonsexual but romantic good time," she added.
"I . . . I suppose," Severus said thoughtfully. "I did bring her out to Delancie's, you know. I wanted her to feel special and valued. She enjoyed that."
"Exactly. That's all you need to do: work to make her feel special, show her that you value her. And be patient. Don't forget that she might have doubts about herself, too, reasons for cooling off your relationship that go beyond whatever caused you to owe her an apology. If you wish to woo her, be persistent, be patient, and give her time. Take things slowly."
Severus nodded. "But how do I know whether I should? What about Hermione?"
Minerva shrugged. "I don't know. I know that you and Hermione have a very special relationship, and I have no doubt that you both love each other. That doesn't necessarily mean that you should be together as a couple. That might be a good thing, it might not be. I can't say. Before you begin wooing Poppy, however, I think you need to make a decision about Hermione, one that you can stick with. If you spend your time with Poppy thinking about Hermione, neither you nor Poppy will be happy, even if you never say anything to her about it. It would never feel right for either of you."
"So what should I do?"
"I really don't know. You say Hermione's started dating someone else. You could talk to her, find out how serious it is, you could discuss your feelings honestly with her...not that I'm recommending you tell her that you believe you may be developing feelings for someone else, but you should discuss your feelings about Hermione with Hermione and then listen and hear what she has to say. If you do think your feelings for her are romantic, you could try to date, but with both of you aware that you are testing the waters, so to speak. It would be direct, above-board, and honest. Not very Slytherin, superficially, but if you want to get somewhere with either of these witches, I think it is your best strategy."
Severus nodded. "I will consider all you have said." He pulled out his watch. "And as it is now almost two in the morning, I will leave you to your night's rest. Would you like me to send a notice to the staff and set the Head's meeting?" he asked as he stood. "I don't feel as though I can go to sleep right now, anyway."
Minerva nodded. "Tomorrow...Saturday...afternoon, late. Four-thirty."
"I'll take care of it, then, and I will consider your advice," Severus said as he stood. "Good night, Headmistress. Sleep well."
"You, too, Severus. Don't stay up too late!"
NEXT
Chapter Sixty-Two: For Old Times' Sake
Friday, 19 March 1999
Poppy and Quin have a night out, and then a nightcap after.
Characters: Poppy Pomfrey, Quin MacAirt
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Latest 25 Reviews for A Long Vernal Season
1058 Reviews | 7.24/10 Average
OMG! How did I miss these last two chapters? Totally wonderful! I'm so in love with Severus and Poppy, I hope it works out for them, I'm worried about Gertrude's attack getting in the way of their happiness, Severys should really talk to Poppy about it and clear the air, I'm sure Gertrude wouldn't mind talking to her as well and explaining she's forgiven him. I'm also so curious about Poppy's middle name! I' suspicious of Gwen bein the vigilante although Severus doesn't think her capable of it, I'm dying to know whow it is and why she's doing it. Are Gertrude and Quin together now? I thought I saw a gleam of something there. Please, tell us soon! I read you haven't forgotten about this fic or any of your other WIPs so I'm hoping for an update in the near future, if live allows. Thanks!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Hi! How lovely to see your name again! :) I'm glad you enjoyed those last two chapters -- though they won't be the last ones, I do hope! I am planning to pick up my WIPs very soon. I've written a couple short fics recently (for Minerva Fest and for the HoggyWarty Christmas exchange), so that kind of helped grease the fanfic cogs a bit. So many (astute!) questions -- but you'll have to wait for the answers!Thank you so much for sticking with the stories! It's very encouraging to know there are still a few folks looking forward to more chapters. :-)
Response from doralupin87 (Reviewer)
Hi! I'm glad to see you are back in fanfiction again and I do hope the cogs are all greased up and ready to go! I've been waiting (patiently!) for an update to this story and to Charming The Scottish Garden, I do love me some Johannes and Siofre! Oh! So, my questions are good? That means I might be onto something, although you did give me a little preview that Gertrude would have a new man in her life, you didn't say who it was, so I think Quin might be a good choice just because they seem connected, although I don't remember quite well if they are related or not. I don't know how much I'll like Trudie with someone other than Malcolm but since you'll be writing it I'm sure I love it, you have this way of making me fall for the craziest couples like Severus and Poppy, never in a million years would I have liked them together if it weren't for your story. Anyway, I look forward to any updates you post. Thanks for coming back, I hope life is good to you :)
OMG. I love these two. Poppy and Serverus are sooooo cute. Please update soon. I want to know what happened to Severus'sbparents and how will Serverus react when Gertrude comes to Hogwarts to teach???
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Hi,
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
! I'm sorry it's taken so long to respond to your comment. I really appreciate your review. I am coming back to fanfic after a longish hiatus, and I hope to update all of my WIPs very soon. (Some of what went on with Severus's parents can be glimpsed in "Charming the Scottish Garden," which is set in the late 50s and focusses on Siofre and Johannes. You don't have to read that story to enjoy LVS, though.) Thanks very much for your review! I do hope to post a new chapter of Long Vernal Season within the next couple of weeks.
Im glad i chose to read this chapter last before going to bed. It's raining outside my window now which makes it even easier to imagine the scene you've set before us. I love that Severus and Poppy are moving forward with their relationshp and growing more comfortable with each other. And who wouldn't wanna be snuggled up with the one they love when it's raining outside? Sigh. LOVED IT!!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Thanks! It's good to write a relationship that's progressing.I'm glad you liked the rainy seaside snuggling! :-)
It's a lovely story. I look forward to new installments.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Thank you very much, Dorit!The next chapter is underway, though slowly. I'm glad to know you're looking forward to it! 
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Thank you very much, Dorit!The next chapter is underway, though slowly. I'm glad to know you're looking forward to it!
Yay, an update!!I loved the interaction with Siofre, Poppy, and Severus in this chapter. I think Siofre is trying, in her own way, to make Severus feel welcomed on the estate and I think it was great that she gave them each a charm so they could Apparate. And the surprise with the flowers and the note at the cottage was perfect. I loved it and I think my heart melted with Poppy's. lol
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Siofre is trying to make Severus feel welcome, as you say, and to let him know that he is both safe and trusted there. It's a bit of an unusual circumstance for him.Poppy's heart sure did melt -- I think Severus should be very happy about that! :-)Thanks for the review! (I'm hoping for another soonish, but I'm working on CSG at the moment -- it's kinda fun writing Siofre at these two different points in time.)
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Siofre is trying to make Severus feel welcome, as you say, and to let him know that he is both safe and trusted there. It's a bit of an unusual circumstance for him.Poppy's heart sure did melt -- I think Severus should be very happy about that! :-)Thanks for the review! (I'm hoping for another soonish, but I'm working on CSG at the moment -- it's kinda fun writing Siofre at these two different points in time.)
I was so thrilled to see you posted another chapter! Glad to hear that the writing bug has bitten you again and hope you are well.
Regarding this chapter I found your ideas about arithmantic charms fascinating; what a creative mind you have! Severus bringing up procreation was funny and interesting. I had assumed Poppy was past her childbearing years. As always, looking forward to more.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Thanks,
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
! Glad you liked the Arithmantic charms -- it was fun to be able to work them in here and show Gareth practicing his specialization. I figure that with much longer lifespans than Muggles, witches have correspondingly longer procreative years, although it would be a rare thing for a witch past a certain age to actually have a child, both due to a decline in fertility w/o recourse to potions and to personal choice. You may remember that in Death's Dominion, Severus didn't automatically realise that Gareth was Gertrude's son because, as he remarked later to Hermione, she was pretty old when she had him, unusually so (67 yrs old). So Poppy continues to take contraceptive potion on the off-chance that she might become pregnant even without any fertility potions. It's good to be back with my characters and stories again -- I've missed them! I've also just missed having the mental and emotional space to write; it's good to have RL calming down a bit! I'm glad to see you're still around, too! It's been a while!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Thanks,
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
! Glad you liked the Arithmantic charms -- it was fun to be able to work them in here and show Gareth practicing his specialization. I figure that with much longer lifespans than Muggles, witches have correspondingly longer procreative years, although it would be a rare thing for a witch past a certain age to actually have a child, both due to a decline in fertility w/o recourse to potions and to personal choice. You may remember that in Death's Dominion, Severus didn't automatically realise that Gareth was Gertrude's son because, as he remarked later to Hermione, she was pretty old when she had him, unusually so (67 yrs old). So Poppy continues to take contraceptive potion on the off-chance that she might become pregnant even without any fertility potions. It's good to be back with my characters and stories again -- I've missed them! I've also just missed having the mental and emotional space to write; it's good to have RL calming down a bit! I'm glad to see you're still around, too! It's been a while!
Loved it! I thought Severus was about to propose! You're killing me. 
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Hiya,
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
! I'm glad it didn't kill you, since then you'd miss the rest of the story! haha! 
I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter! It was really fun to get back to the story.Thanks very much! 
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Hiya,
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
! I'm glad it didn't kill you, since then you'd miss the rest of the story! haha! I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter! It was really fun to get back to the story.Thanks very much!
This is the first time she said it, isn't it?Oh, that's wonderful :) glad you're back again!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Indeed it is!It's good to see you -- I'm glad I'm back again, too!
Response from herby (Reviewer)
Oh, I forgot: Congrats on 2nd place! :)
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Thank you!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Indeed it is!It's good to see you -- I'm glad I'm back again, too!
Response from herby (Reviewer)
Oh, I forgot: Congrats on 2nd place! :)
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Thank you!
When will your next updaate be?
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Hi,
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
! I'm not sure. October was a really hard month, so I wasn't able to write for the last few weeks, and November is looking a bit better, but I'm trying to get myself back on track with things before I can write. I'm glad you're still following the story! :-) Thanks for staying in touch with it even if it's been a bit skimpy in updates recently.
Response from BitBit (Reviewer)
Sorry you've been having a hard time! Don't worry, I LOVE this story. Can't wait!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Hi,
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
! I'm not sure. October was a really hard month, so I wasn't able to write for the last few weeks, and November is looking a bit better, but I'm trying to get myself back on track with things before I can write. I'm glad you're still following the story! :-) Thanks for staying in touch with it even if it's been a bit skimpy in updates recently.
Response from BitBit (Reviewer)
Sorry you've been having a hard time! Don't worry, I LOVE this story. Can't wait!
I can't wait to hear what happens next! Hope to see the next chapter soon!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Hi,
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
! It's in the works -- it's been a really tough month, so little energy for writing, but I'm trying to plug away. Thanks for dropping me a note! I always enjoy hearing from readers who are enjoying the story. It's very encouraging.
Response from Applebee545 (Reviewer)
So happy to hear that!! Your welcome and can't wait to see it! :)
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Hi,
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
! It's in the works -- it's been a really tough month, so little energy for writing, but I'm trying to plug away. Thanks for dropping me a note! I always enjoy hearing from readers who are enjoying the story. It's very encouraging.
Response from Applebee545 (Reviewer)
So happy to hear that!! Your welcome and can't wait to see it! :)
First off let me just say I love this story, very creative, but come on! You're driving me insane! Please just marry them already it would be adorable! And Severus talking about children- I almost fainted! Can Poppy still have children? Anywyas, I can't wait for your next update! 
Response from BitBit (Reviewer)
Oh and when will you tell us Poppy's middle name, that whole thing is hilarious!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
I'm glad you love the story! There's more to go -- mysteries to solve & all that -- and I hope you enjoy that, as well. :-)Witches can continue to have children a few decades longer than Muggle women, though in the last decade or two, they may need a bit of help from potions. Gertrude had Gareth when she was 67 with a bit of help from potions -- and because Malcolm really wanted a child with her. There are actually hints to the reader as to what Poppy's middle name might be -- in the title of the story (though that also expresses what Severus is experiencing throughout the story), in Firenze's prediction back in Part 2, and in Aine's prediction a little while back.Thanks for the review! I might try to write a bit on LVS today.
Response from BitBit (Reviewer)
Oh and when will you tell us Poppy's middle name, that whole thing is hilarious!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
I'm glad you love the story! There's more to go -- mysteries to solve & all that -- and I hope you enjoy that, as well. :-)Witches can continue to have children a few decades longer than Muggle women, though in the last decade or two, they may need a bit of help from potions. Gertrude had Gareth when she was 67 with a bit of help from potions -- and because Malcolm really wanted a child with her. There are actually hints to the reader as to what Poppy's middle name might be -- in the title of the story (though that also expresses what Severus is experiencing throughout the story), in Firenze's prediction back in Part 2, and in Aine's prediction a little while back.Thanks for the review! I might try to write a bit on LVS today.
Another awesome chapter to the story, woo hoo.Loved the "procreation" bit of the chapter. I can't believe Severus went there, teehee. And poor Poppy ... that must have caught her off guard. Cracks me up. And I'm dying to know more about the letters!!!Update soon.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Yep, that certainly did catch Poppy off-guard! Glad it gave you a giggle!We'll get to the letters, never fear! Thanks! Glad you liked it. 
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Yep, that certainly did catch Poppy off-guard! Glad it gave you a giggle!We'll get to the letters, never fear! Thanks! Glad you liked it.
Woah! That's a teaser! I am DIEING to know what the letters say! Awesome way to set the chappie up. I loved the nudges - and I won't say more on that. I am most interested in all the explanations of Arithmancy - a lot of your ideas about magic give me ideas on how to work around my ideas of magic, if that makes any sense. You and Squibby both have great scientific ideas in relationships with magic - and I just love to read how they weave together. As I grow older, I am learning - everything in this world - living, dead or otherwise, even history, is interwoven into nearly everything else. Almost every act and every creature has a direct affect on the rest of the world if you travel along the path long enough. I find this interweaving so facinating.Bla bla bla, enough of my rambling - an excellent suspense chapter - has me chomping at the bit to find out WHAT is going on with Severus' parents!And, was I misreading, but is Poppy a tad uncertain about Sevy here? She doesn't seem as relaxed and confident as usual.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
You'll find out a bit more about what the letters say in the next chapter, but not everything until Severus reads them. It ties in with a lot of bits and pieces we've been gleaning about Severus's parents since Part One, as well as tying into what we learn about Eileen & her father in Charming the Scottish Garden -- there will be a bit of a recap of that in LVS for Severus's sake (and for readers who aren't reading the late 50s, early 60s CSG fic).Poppy isn't uncertain, though she does show hesitation in a couple spots. Naturally, she was a bit taken aback with the sudden mention of procreation! lol! But her other hesitancy has a reason for it, which will come out in the next chapter. No big deal, though.
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
I was thining she might be a tad threatened by Gareth, since Severus has told her of a more friendly relationship that they had - thought she might have some doubts. I certainly have to get back into CSG, that's for sure - I've forgotten a great deal.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
No, she's not. Gareth just dominates the conversation here a bit. As he is quite capable of doing! lol!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
HAHA! Some of us are like that, especially when you get us on a subject we love. Gareth has good company - is all I'm gonna say! *grins* 
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
You'll find out a bit more about what the letters say in the next chapter, but not everything until Severus reads them. It ties in with a lot of bits and pieces we've been gleaning about Severus's parents since Part One, as well as tying into what we learn about Eileen & her father in Charming the Scottish Garden -- there will be a bit of a recap of that in LVS for Severus's sake (and for readers who aren't reading the late 50s, early 60s CSG fic).Poppy isn't uncertain, though she does show hesitation in a couple spots. Naturally, she was a bit taken aback with the sudden mention of procreation! lol! But her other hesitancy has a reason for it, which will come out in the next chapter. No big deal, though.
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
I was thining she might be a tad threatened by Gareth, since Severus has told her of a more friendly relationship that they had - thought she might have some doubts. I certainly have to get back into CSG, that's for sure - I've forgotten a great deal.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
No, she's not. Gareth just dominates the conversation here a bit. As he is quite capable of doing! lol!
Response from Fishy (Reviewer)
HAHA! Some of us are like that, especially when you get us on a subject we love. Gareth has good company - is all I'm gonna say! *grins*
I enjoyed the exploration of Arithmancy and its many applications in the wizarding world. It must be a lot of fun to take canonical concepts and expand on them in such an interesting way.Poor Severus had a bit of a slip there! Procreation?
He's certainly blunt about his intentions toward Poppy in that bit. He can't have had much of a love life in the past, though, so enjoyable sex must be something new to him, as well as someone who reciprocates his love for her. It's lovely to see him have a second chance at love as well as life. I always love to see Gareth and his relationship with Snape, particularly their banter. They've come a long way from their first hostile meeting in DD, that's for sure!It was a lot of fun to see Angus Og make a little cameo at the end of the chapter, especially now that I know he's the Celtic god of love. A suitable entity for Severus to call on, certainly.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
It is fun to play with magic in the stories. I enjoy trying to systemetize it while still keeping it magical and a bit mysterious. (Heck, a lot mysterious in most cases, since it's magic! ) I see basic Arithmancy as a bit like symbolic logic combined with physics, and advanced Arithmancy like theoretical physics plus its practical application in creating effects in the world, not just describing it, so rather well differentiated from "Muggle" numerology, in which everything is reduced to numbers. In my version of magical Arithmancy, other symbols are used to, and they can mean different things and have different "powers" depending upon their juxtaposition with other symbols, whether numeric or otherwise. Yep, I have spent far too much time contemplating a wholly imaginary magical system! lol!Severus did have a little slip that showed Poppy the general direction of his intentions, didn't he?Yes, good ol' Angus Og. Minerva has been using terms from Celtic myths & legends this year for her passwords, and she's particularly fond of that one because of the story her brother Malcolm told her about Angus Og.Glad you enjoyed the chapter!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
It is fun to play with magic in the stories. I enjoy trying to systemetize it while still keeping it magical and a bit mysterious. (Heck, a lot mysterious in most cases, since it's magic! ) I see basic Arithmancy as a bit like symbolic logic combined with physics, and advanced Arithmancy like theoretical physics plus its practical application in creating effects in the world, not just describing it, so rather well differentiated from "Muggle" numerology, in which everything is reduced to numbers. In my version of magical Arithmancy, other symbols are used to, and they can mean different things and have different "powers" depending upon their juxtaposition with other symbols, whether numeric or otherwise. Yep, I have spent far too much time contemplating a wholly imaginary magical system! lol!Severus did have a little slip that showed Poppy the general direction of his intentions, didn't he?Yes, good ol' Angus Og. Minerva has been using terms from Celtic myths & legends this year for her passwords, and she's particularly fond of that one because of the story her brother Malcolm told her about Angus Og.Glad you enjoyed the chapter!
Welcome, Welcome back! I have so enjoyed your stories. I am currently rereading this one to again familiarize myself with the 'danglimg plot clues.' I must admit to a secret desire... Would truly love to see you get the Potions Master into a kilt. Full Scottish.regalia would be even better! Thank You again for taking the time to dream and compose a follow-on tale for the Professor.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Hello, Sehkmet! (Love your name!) Yes, there are a very many dangling clues in this story, and they are going to begin to gradually come together. I'm very glad that you're enjoying the story. :-)Severus in a kilt? Hmmm, must think about how to achieve that one . . . maybe in a side-story. Could make for some fun. Naturally, it couldn't be of his own accord. Bad bet with Gareth, perhaps? The possibilities abound!Thank you very much for your kind words! It's especially encouraging coming back from a longish hiatus.Have fun with the reread! 
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Hello, Sehkmet! (Love your name!) Yes, there are a very many dangling clues in this story, and they are going to begin to gradually come together. I'm very glad that you're enjoying the story. :-)Severus in a kilt? Hmmm, must think about how to achieve that one . . . maybe in a side-story. Could make for some fun. Naturally, it couldn't be of his own accord. Bad bet with Gareth, perhaps? The possibilities abound!Thank you very much for your kind words! It's especially encouraging coming back from a longish hiatus.Have fun with the reread!
It was interesting to see Alastor again here. He seems to be on slightly better terms with Snape, although their relationship is certainly a tense one. They're both intense figures who can hold grudges. Burns certainly sounds like a suspect! I'm interested to see where questioning her leads. She doesn't seem to understand that not all Slytherins are as bad as Polyphemus and the toe-rag (in the immortal words of Minerva McGonagall) were.I hope the vigilante is caught soon, especially now that someone has died as a result of her actions. The use of the Conruptus spell is a truly disturbed touch, especially combined with the "diseased flesh" rhetoric. I'd certainly be wary if I was a crook and had Mad-Eye Moody on my tail!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Moody is trying to be conciliatory to Snape, but Moody doesn't do conciliatory very well, and Snape isn't the most forgiving soul. Considering their personalities and their histories, they're actually getting along pretty well now! lol!Yep, the vigilante's choice of hexes is particularly nasty. "Disturbed" is a good word for it.I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Moody is trying to be conciliatory to Snape, but Moody doesn't do conciliatory very well, and Snape isn't the most forgiving soul. Considering their personalities and their histories, they're actually getting along pretty well now! lol!Yep, the vigilante's choice of hexes is particularly nasty. "Disturbed" is a good word for it.I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter.
I will put a £ on Burns, can't wait so learn if I am right.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
I'll make a note of that!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
I'll make a note of that!
Seems like forever since we've had an update so I'm very happy to see one now. I'm very pleased Poppy rushed home to be with Severus after the attack. I think these two are just adorable (don't tell Snape I said that) and for her to endure the wrath of her friends upon coming home early ... I think Severus better really appreciate her gesture. And the bit about Minerva and Gertie before they became friends ... awesome. I love how all your stories tie in together. Can't stand Moody, though that's probably b/c you've written him so well. haha.Hope you'll update again soon!!CFP,the GLM
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Yeah, Moody can be pretty abrasive, and since Snape still doesn't like him, that comes through here.I'm sure that Severus both appreciates the gesture and regrets it -- since it raised questions in her friends' minds about why she would leave -- but on the whole, he is very glad she's back, and he's glad that she is willing to leave her friends when she believes he needs her, and that she is willing to be put in an awkward position to do it.I'm working on "Stray" at the moment. It's a bit weird to switch back and forth between "Stray" and LVS, but sometimes I write on one, sometimes the other. It's easier when I'm writing two RaMverse fics because, as you say, the stories all tie together, but "Stray" is not set in the RaMverse and it has a canon-compliant (pretty much) Snape, not the more reformed Snape of the RaMverse.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Yeah, Moody can be pretty abrasive, and since Snape still doesn't like him, that comes through here.I'm sure that Severus both appreciates the gesture and regrets it -- since it raised questions in her friends' minds about why she would leave -- but on the whole, he is very glad she's back, and he's glad that she is willing to leave her friends when she believes he needs her, and that she is willing to be put in an awkward position to do it.I'm working on "Stray" at the moment. It's a bit weird to switch back and forth between "Stray" and LVS, but sometimes I write on one, sometimes the other. It's easier when I'm writing two RaMverse fics because, as you say, the stories all tie together, but "Stray" is not set in the RaMverse and it has a canon-compliant (pretty much) Snape, not the more reformed Snape of the RaMverse.
*snip*“He’s dead. Died an hour or so after reaching St. Mungo’s. Poor sod didn’t have a chance. It was another Conruptus, but this one hit his abdomen, practically dead centre. The damage was extensive. Even if he’d been found right away, the Healers say his chances of surviving such a bad hit were close to nil. Looks like his wife has a good chance of pulling through. She was hit second, and she’d turned to shield her children. The youngest was in her arms.” Moody’s cheek twitched, and his natural eye blinked. He swallowed and shifted in his chair, his claw-foot scraping against the stone floor. *snip*Awwwwwwwwwwwwww - is that Alastor nearly getting choked up???? AWWWWWWWWWWWWWW! I wuvs my Alastor! 
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Yeah, just a bit! I know you love your Alastor!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Yeah, just a bit! I know you love your Alastor!
Two witches, managing their men... both very skillfully.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Sometimes necessary!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Sometimes necessary!
Poor Poppy. It's a miserable feeling to constantly watch out for someone else at a party, making sure they're enjoying themselves or at least not unhappy.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
If Poppy had any clue that Severus is particularly uncomfortable with Gertrude, then she'd be even more worried about that, but she is certainly drawn from her enjoyment of the party during her initial worries that Severus is unhappy. Fortunately, that improves, because, as you say, it can be miserable to constantly be watching to see if someone is enjoying themselves! You can't enjoy the party yourself.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
If Poppy had any clue that Severus is particularly uncomfortable with Gertrude, then she'd be even more worried about that, but she is certainly drawn from her enjoyment of the party during her initial worries that Severus is unhappy. Fortunately, that improves, because, as you say, it can be miserable to constantly be watching to see if someone is enjoying themselves! You can't enjoy the party yourself.
Ha! Panacea - I knew it. The contrast between how the three of them approached the door-riddle was perfect. Flitwick loving the challenge, Poppy game for it but seemingly unconcerned about failing, and Severus annoyed at the inconvienience and protective of his dignity.And the contrast between the way Severus and Poppy viewed her younger self was sweet, too. She's still a bit worried and insecure about their age difference, and he's so in love with her that he considers any Pre-Sev version as simply Poppy-in-development.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Panacea is definitely a good one to add to the list!Glad you enjoyed the different perspectives!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Panacea is definitely a good one to add to the list!Glad you enjoyed the different perspectives!
I'm so glad he got that off his chest! And that Poppy took it well. It's a good thing she's both mature and has a real generosity of spirit, otherwise his habit of blurting things out could get him into deep trouble. And this time they were only cuddling, not even post-coital. LOL.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
That was a big blurt, too! Fortunately, Poppy also has learned to try to digest something that surprises her before blurting something herself. lol!Severus is trying to behave differently with Poppy and be as open with her as possible (though he's still hiding some big secrets from her), and he's unfortunately going to an extreme in his honesty. Still, his instincts are basically right; he's just not very good at timing or wording yet, to say the least!
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
That was a big blurt, too! Fortunately, Poppy also has learned to try to digest something that surprises her before blurting something herself. lol!Severus is trying to behave differently with Poppy and be as open with her as possible (though he's still hiding some big secrets from her), and he's unfortunately going to an extreme in his honesty. Still, his instincts are basically right; he's just not very good at timing or wording yet, to say the least!
Anonymous
Sorry if this is a short one - I just wanted to let you know how happy I was about the update, and how much I liked it.
Poor Severus, to have to meet that Gwen person - but it's only natural, of course, that this will happen to him now and then. And I nearly had forgotten about the attacks. I'm getting more and more curious about their origin!
Author's Response: Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it. It has been so long since I've updated on a regular basis, it's not surprising you had forgotten about the attacks. I hope to update at least twice a month from now on -- barring major disruptions in RL.
Thanks again!
What a lovely fun chapter! I'm so happy and excited to be reading a new chapter of this story. I so adore your Severus and how he's come to interact with the others in such a friendly way. Reading about dueling parctice was fun - I think I've said it before but I vastly enjoy your creative use and explanations of magic. Charms, Transfiguration, Jinxes, spells, intention, all of it actually seems to make sense in a way that I could actually use it (if I were a witch and if magic actually existed.) You make it so real, so effortless, such a part of the way of things -- it's like watching Fred Astaire dance... effortless - we all think we could actually do that. Seeing how Madam Fuller reacted to the situation makes me appreciate Poppy all the more. I loved Melina oblivating her - what a surprising and fun moment. I can just imagine the look on Severus' face and the conspiriatorial comradery he'll now feel with Melina. Hope there will be more to this story soon. Thank you for your creativity and hard work.
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
Thank you very much for the review,
Response from MMADfan (Author of A Long Vernal Season)
! I am very glad you enjoyed it.If you ever wake up to discover yourself a witch in the middle of the HP universe, you can put your knowledge of magic to work! lol! (And not go trying untested zero-g charms on people!) I'm glad you like the magic. It is fun to construct. I had a particularly good time with Flitwick's hyperbaric treatment, although the details of it weren't sketched out here.Glad you enjoyed Melina's little surprise at the end of the chapter!Thanks again for your review and for returning to the story after such a long hiatus. Hopefully, the next chapter won't be so long in coming! (I'm working on a novella-length Hooch fic at the moment, and I'm trying to get that finished sometime this week. We'll see! Keep an eye out for that one. It's not RaMverse, though -- Snape's in it, and he's our canon Potions master.)