XXVIII: The Confession at the Manor
Chapter 28 of 37
sevs_starsisters*COMPLETED* The Star Sisters have left Hogwarts and are now facing a new world with new opportunities and new kinds of danger. And also for the Half-Blood Prince, times are changing. (This story is the sequel to Star Sisters.)
Chapter XXVIII: The Confession at the Manor
‘It’s a beautiful night. Have a stroll through the winter garden, you two. By the time you arrive at the fountain, you will find some sweets to nibble on. Off you go now.’
Narcissa looked after her two guests as they disappeared between the shrubs and bushes, glad to see that they were getting along very nicely. Certainly, she would have loved to see Grindling offer Morgana his arm and the girl accept it with a love-struck look in her blue eyes, but Narcissa had learnt her lesson. There was no point in rushing things with those two. She had been too eager in getting them to fall for each other during their first dinner, and the evening had ended in a disaster. And so Narcissa had changed strategies, and instead of serving them aphrodisiacs for dessert, she had invited Grindling and Morgana for casual lunches and cosy tea parties and waited for things to unfold in their own time. They would unfold, she was certain of that. Grindling was a dashing wizard, witty and charming, and Morgana was an intelligent, beautiful young witch. Why would they not fall for each other? Especially now, when Morgana finally seemed to have abandoned her boyish ways and Grindling didn’t seem to be interested in anyone but her.
Narcissa smiled and checked the ornate clock on top of the mantelpiece. She would give the two lovebirds an hour in the garden. That would give them enough time to talk privately and hopefully get a bit tipsy from the sweet wine the elves were uncorking by the fountain right now. And who knew? Maybe the moonlight would work its magic on them, as well, together with the heavy scent of the flowers. Tonight might just be the night.
* * *‘That was a lovely dinner. The lamb was so tender that it almost melted in my mouth. And the gravy!’
Morgana smiled at Grindling.
‘It was nice to see that we can have dinner without Narcissa trying to have us marry before the second course.’
Grindling laughed nervously.
‘She has calmed down considerably over the last two months. One might almost think she has given up.’
‘Don’t forget that the woman is a Slytherin. Cunning folks, you know. We can’t let our guards down.’
‘You’re right, of course,’ Grindling agreed. But he had to admit that once or twice during the evening, he had found himself looking at Morgana from across the table, admiring her. She was wearing her red hair braided that evening, and her dark green dress, feminine yet not girlish, accentuated her well-shaped body. She was truly lovely. And had the circumstances been different, Grindling thought that he could have fallen for her. But there was Narcissa, the woman he’d loved for so many years, and there was Charis, whom he cherished highly. He was trapped by his own emotions and vulnerable, to say the least. He did not trust his wounded heart. And so he had thought it wisest to avert his eyes.
‘I will say one thing for Narcissa, she lives up to her name,’ he pointed out now, desperate for a topic that did not involve matters of the heart. ‘She always keeps these gardens immaculate.’ He stopped, crouching down. ‘You see those little lilac and pink flowers there? Daphne mezereum. Very fragrant. A treat for the winter months.’
‘They’re also highly toxic,’ Morgana said matter-of-factly. ‘Just handling the twigs can cause nasty rashes.’
Grindling withdrew his hand, and Morgana bit her lip. He’d tried to impress her and tell her something nice. Did she have to spoil the moment?
‘Sorry,’ she said meekly. ‘I’ve never been the flowery kind of girl. Flowers and plants are for potions. And lilac and pink?’ She gave a theatrical shudder. ‘Reminds me of Gilderoy Lockheart.’
Grindling raised an eyebrow at this. ‘Yes, Gilderoy always was… a bit of a dandy.’
‘A bit? Half the girls in my year were jealous of his hair! Actually, make that two thirds. At least.’
‘Yourself not included in those two thirds, I assume?’ Grindling wondered, causing Morgana to snort.
‘No!’
Grindling chuckled. He would have liked to say something nice about Morgana’s hair now, how the soft curls suited her or that he liked it when she wore her hair long. But he kept silent. The last compliment he had given her had not been too well received.
They strolled together comfortably in silence for a while before Grindling looked up at the sky, which could be seen through the glass roof of the winter garden.
‘Orion looks beautiful tonight,’ he pointed out. ‘Did you take Astronomy?’
Morgana looked at him as if he were deranged.
‘Grindling, I was in Slytherin! Slytherins live in the dungeons. The Astronomy tower is out of our domain.’
‘That is a true shame,’ Grindling replied, shaking his head. ‘The stars fascinate me. It always amazes me to think that when we look up at a star, we are actually looking at the past because the light has travelled so far to reach us.’
Morgana watched him, waiting for him to go on.
‘For example, with our own sun, the light takes eight minutes to travel to earth. Whereas a star like Betelgeuse, which is the big red star on Orion’s left shoulder... it would take millions upon millions of years. Isn’t that wonderful?’
He smiled, and Morgana looked amused. What was it with Ravenclaws and stars?
‘Betelgeuse is actually very near the end of its life,’ Grindling continued. ‘It’s a swollen red giant, due to explode and go supernova at any moment. And when it does, you’ll be able to see it in broad daylight. It will be the brightest object in the sky. Of course, it might already have gone supernova. It’s just the light hasn’t reached us on earth yet, so we don’t know.’
He smiled again, but his smile quickly faltered as he looked at Morgana.
‘I am so sorry, Morgana. I must be boring you. You need to tell me to shut up. I do go on a bit, I know that.’
‘Don’t worry,’ Morgana replied, smiling kindly. ‘You’re passionate, and that’s very sweet. I hope you’re that way about all the things you love.’
She gave him a meaningful look, and Grindling swallowed drily.
‘Sadly, I’m a bit too tenacious,’ he admitted. ‘It’s hard for me to let go of the things I love.’
To that, Morgana just nodded silently. She knew all too well what it meant to cling on to a love long gone.
When they arrived at the fountain in the middle of the winter garden, they found a table with a white tablecloth and wine and chocolates as promised.
‘Isn’t it ironic that Narcissa has done all this for us, now you know my feelings for her?’ Grindling asked, pulling out Morgana’s chair for her to sit.
‘She doesn’t carry the name of Malfoy for show. They’d do whatever it takes to get what they want,’ Morgana replied, watching Grindling take his seat. ‘Narcissa plays on your feelings for her. Don’t forget that,’ she added quietly.
Grindling nodded and poured some wine, first for Morgana, then a glass for himself.
‘No expense spared, it seems,’ he commented. ‘This is a good vintage!’
‘I’ll have to trust you on that one,’ Morgana said dryly, eyeing the wine carefully. Narcissa had not tried to make her drink any alcohol since that disastrous dinner two months ago. Tonight, the hostess had even let her guest drink pumpkin juice without pointing out that such a mundane beverage wasn’t suited to a lady.
‘I am not sure I trust the chocolates, however,’ Grindling joked. ‘Not after last time! That gu… I’d like to apologise once more for my behaviour that night.’
Morgana shook her head dismissively. Grindling had nothing to apologise for. She’d told him already. She hadn’t been in control of her emotions and actions that night either. Grindling, however, insisted on taking full responsibility.
In order to ease his mind, she produced her wand from her sleeve, and after casting a quick spell over the chocolates, she pushed the plate towards the fair wizard.
‘All clear. Unless she found some new and undetectable kind of Amortentia.’
Grindling looked impressed. ‘Ah, the Auror training does come in handy, then.’
‘Finally!’ Morgana answered sardonically. Grindling had no idea that she’d known that particular spell for years, of course.
‘Well, if you’re quite sure they’re safe,’ Grindling said, eyeing the chocolates, trying to decide which one to choose. ‘I could do with something sweet.’
And with that, he took a chocolate and began to nibble on it.
Morgana looked expectantly at him. She was quite certain that she had cast the spell properly, but one could never know. In the worst case, Grindling would be on his knees in a moment, proposing to her.
Yet Grindling’s reaction was a completely different one.
‘Aphrodite’s bellybutton!’ he exclaimed. ‘These are exceptional.’
Morgana leant back in her chair, playing idly with her wine glass and watching Grindling finish the sweet. He was making the cutest little humming noises, and his grey eyes were glittering. He was downright adorable, and Morgana couldn’t help but smile.
‘What?’ Grindling asked after he’d licked his fingers clean. He’d obviously noticed her watching him.
‘Nothing,’ Morgana said, a slightly pink colour creeping over her cheeks. ‘I was just imagining how it would be to actually fall in love with you.’
Grindling’s eyes widened, and he looked both taken aback and embarrassed.
‘A crashing disappointment, I’m sure,’ he muttered.
‘Don’t think so, actually,’ Morgana stated. ‘In fact, I think I wouldn’t mind.’
Now she blushed in earnest.
‘Sorry,’ she said, putting her glass back onto the table. ‘I need to stop drinking wine.’
It was a lame excuse; she knew that. Grindling had certainly noticed that she had not been drinking any wine at all. But he was too much of a gentleman to point that out. Instead, he smiled kindly at her.
‘You’re a very delectable witch. Quite why there aren’t queues of wizards formed outside your flat waiting to take you out is one of the seven wonders of the universe.’
‘You haven’t seen my flat. It reeks of cat pee,’ Morgana replied wryly, desperately trying to get over her embarrassment and making Grinding stop thinking that she was delectable.
He, however, just laughed. ‘It is a good job I do not mind cats, then.’
‘Snake baits,’ Morgana commented, wrinkling her nose.
Grindling tutted. ‘Charis would be most upset if she heard you say that.’
‘She knows already,’ Morgana replied. ‘She also knows that I wouldn’t be a good cat owner. I don’t have the loving disposition to have a pet.’
‘Now, I find that very hard to believe,’ Grindling contradicted her, at which Morgana raised a sardonic eyebrow.
‘I see how much you care for Charis,’ Grindling insisted. ‘The way you confronted me at the Ministry showed me as much. You love fiercely and deeply.’
The muscles at her jaw twitched at that comment, but Morgana did not reply. Instead, she seemed to shiver.
‘Should we make our way back to the Manor?’ Grindling suggested.
Morgana nodded silently, and Grindling offered her his arm.
‘Let us make Narcissa happy, shall we? She’ll be delighted to see us having come close.’
Morgana hesitated at first but then realised the practical side of Grindling’s proposal. If they acted like lovebirds, Narcissa would hopefully give them some privacy.
It was nice to hold on to him. His arm was muscular, and he smelled nice. And Morgana actually enjoyed him once more pointing out stars and flowers to her as they strolled back towards the manor. Yet his soft baritone couldn’t drown the haunting cries of the pure-white peacocks that roamed the grounds or the barking and howling of the hounds in the distance.
‘It sounds like a zoo out here,’ Grindling chuckled. ‘Narcissa never liked animals very much. That must be Lucius’ influence.’
Morgana flinched, first at the name and then at her reaction. Lucius’ name still awakened a feeling in her she didn’t want to have; a heart-breaking longing strangely mixed with fear. She still missed him, although she didn’t want to. And she was afraid that she would never stop longing for him.
Once more, the peacocks’ cries cut through the silence of the night, and Morgana imagined seeing her Patronus soar through the semi-darkness. Regal and beautiful, just like Lucius. Weak and vulnerable, just like her. And it was because of her weakness that it had been unable to protect her in Azkaban.
‘There you are, you two lovelies. I was beginning to think you’d lost your way.’
Narcissa’s voice ripped Morgana out of her thoughts. The older woman was smiling and was obviously very pleased at seeing her guests returning to the manor arm in arm. Grindling had been right.
‘The winter garden is beautiful, Narcissa,’ Grindling said graciously. ‘And the wine and chocolates were exquisite. Thank you.’
He sounded sincere, and there wasn’t the slightest tremble in his voice. But Morgana could feel the muscles in his arm tense up, and she was very reluctant to let go of him as Narcissa reached out her hand for her.
‘I am afraid I will have to steal this lovely creature from you now, Grindling, but young girls need their beauty sleep,’ the lady of the manor said. ‘You’re staying over as well, I hope. I have instructed the elves to prepare an excellent breakfast.’
Morgana gave Grindling a furtive look. He would not refuse Narcissa’s wish. They all knew that. And if he stayed the night at the manor, and if Narcissa decided that she didn’t want to sleep alone, he wouldn’t refuse her that wish either. In the morning, he would feel used and heartbroken all over again. This mustn’t happen.
‘Please, Grindling, stay,’ Morgana said, in the most girlish and love-struck voice she could pull off without sounding ridiculous. ‘I’d love to see you at breakfast.’
Narcissa was beaming, and Grindling bowed slightly.
‘I’d love to stay,’ he replied. ‘Thank you.’
‘How lovely!’ Narcissa exclaimed, obviously delighted. ‘Good thing I instructed the elves to prepare two guest bedrooms. Follow me, please.’
She led Morgana by the hand like a child, and Grindling walked behind them, following them through the manor and up the stairs to the bedrooms Narcissa had chosen for them. He didn’t have a good feeling about spending the night at the manor. But he had understood the look Morgana had given him and the meaning in her words. If Narcissa thought that he was staying for the girl’s sake, she might just leave him alone. Or at least, he hoped so. For what he would do if Narcissa knocked at his door later that night, he did not know. He doubted, however, that he would have the strength to turn her away.
Grindling’s door was the first on the right, and he gallantly kissed both Morgana’s and Narcissa’s hand before bidding them goodnight. Narcissa’s hand was cold, and Morgana’s slightly sweaty, and Grindling sympathised with the girl. His hand wasn’t exactly dry either.
He looked after the two women for some moments as they walked down the corridor. They both came from an ancient line and had both been raised in the Slytherin spirit, but they couldn’t be more different. Narcissa was cold and calculating and looking out only for her own interests whereas Morgana used her cunning in order to protect the people she cared for. May Narcissa never be able to break her spirit.
The chamber Grindling had been given was beautiful: a pure-looking, white suite, complete with a massive four-poster bed, which was framed with soft flowing curtains. The sheepskin rug was immaculately white, and so were the candles and the roses on the bedside table. The only speck of colour in the room was the bowl of fruit that was standing on the dresser opposite the bed. There were strawberries, cherries and grapes, and beside the bowl stood a bottle of champagne. Grindling’s stomach clenched, yet not at the label or the vintage, but at the fact that there were two glasses. Had he walked into Narcissa’s trap after all?
When the door on the opposite side of the room opened, the blood in Grindling’s veins turned to ice, but to his utter relief, it was not Narcissa who entered the room. It was Morgana. She, however, seemed anything but happy to see him.
‘You have got to be jesting!’ she exclaimed with annoyance.
Grindling exhaled. ‘It seems our hostess is up to tricks again.’
‘So much for her playing fair tonight!’ Morgana grumbled. ‘Seems we gave her too much credit. But at least she had the decency not to lock us in,’ she added upon checking the door.
Then she turned back to face Grindling, and her voice dropped to a whisper. ‘What do we do?’
‘Do you want to leave, Morgana?’ Grindling asked seriously. ‘I can escort you home.’
Her eyes narrowed, and after a moment, Morgana crossed her arms in front of her chest. ‘How about we stay?’
Grindling’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. ‘Stay? Are you sure?’
Morgana nodded and put a finger on her lips to silence him, and he watched her as she systematically scanned the walls, doors and windows with her wand while muttering spells.
‘Whatever Narcissa is up to, she will not see or hear anything that happens in this room tonight,’ Morgana announced once she had finished. ‘Or what doesn’t happen, for that matter.’
Grindling looked around the room. ‘I should be able to Transfigure the cabinet into another bed.’
Morgana sneered. ‘Don’t you trust me, Mr Gibbons?’
Grindling laughed. ‘Of course. It’s just...’ He looked down, clearly embarrassed, and Morgana couldn’t help but grin.
‘This bed is bigger than my flat. I promise I won’t bite.’
Grindling looked highly uncomfortable. ‘I will be keeping my robes on, of course.’
‘Of course, you will. Just make sure to open a button or two on your shirt before we go down to breakfast.’
Now the fair wizard looked confused.
‘Narcissa needs to think that something happened here tonight,’ Morgana clarified. ‘She is clearly hell-bent on getting us two together. If we wrinkle the sheets, she might just get off our backs for a while.’
Grindling considered this for a moment. ‘You might have a point there.’
And with that, he kicked off his boots and swung his legs on the bed, his arms behind his head.
‘It’s comfy,’ he announced, grinning boyishly.
Morgana flinched. The soft candlelight cast a silvery glow onto Grindling’s blond hair, and his crisp white shirt almost seemed to glow in the semi-darkness. He looked dashing, desirable, and for a moment, the tiniest of moments that didn’t last longer than the blink of an eye, Morgana thought…
‘Tell me, is this a good one?’ she asked, nodding towards the champagne.
Grindling craned his neck to inspect the label. ‘Once again, no expense spared here. It’s a good cuvee,’ he explained.
‘Can one get wasted on good cuvee?’ Morgana asked. Suddenly, she wished for nothing more than to flee this room. But since physically leaving meant spoiling their plans, she wanted to escape mentally at least.
‘One can get very wasted on this if they choose,’ Grindling affirmed. He’d gotten up from the bed and was now expecting the bottle closely. ‘However, there seems little point in opening the bottle if I am to drink it alone.’
‘Oh, I’ll be helping!’
Grindling raised an eyebrow. Usually, the red-haired witch did not care for alcohol. Maybe she had expensive taste?
‘Well, let’s crack her open, then!’ he suggested, expertly popped the cork and filled up two flutes, passing one over to Morgana.
‘A toast?’ he offered.
‘Be my guest.’
Grindling held his glass aloft. ‘To getting rid of the chains that bind our hearts as quickly and as humanly possible.’
‘Hear, hear!’
The pair chinked glasses, and Grindling took a deep swig.
‘Hmmm... nice, crisp, biscuity finish... dry yet sweet enough...’
Morgana, however, had no time for such trifles. She was already half-way through her glass and couldn’t have cared less if it the champagne had tasted like goblin piss.
‘I never knew you had a predilection for champagne,’ Grindling said, failing to keep the tone of amusement out of his voice.
‘There are many things you don’t know about me,’ Morgana replied quietly. ‘Most of them would shock you.’
Grindling frowned. Something had changed, he sensed that clearly. There was a shadow on Morgana’s face and an iciness in her blue eyes which he had never seen before. And as she began to walk around the room with her glass in her hand, she reminded him of a caged animal.
‘Morgana, I do not mean to be rude,’ he said after a moment, ‘but you are clearly not happy here. Let me take you home.’
‘You’ll do no such thing!’ Morgana shot back. ‘If we leave now, then Merlin knows what methods Narcissa will use the next time she invites us. Enchanted gu, anyone?’
Grindling choked on his champagne.
‘Morgana, that gu… I can’t apologise enough…’
‘It’s wasn’t your fault,’ Morgana cut him short. ‘You didn’t know what that dessert can do.’
But she had known. At she hadn’t fought the effects.
‘Morgana, please,’ Grindling tried carefully. ‘You look so uncomfortable here. Is there anything I can do?
Sadly, Morgana shook her head.
‘It’s this room,’ she started to explain, slowly letting her fingers trail over the silky bed sheets. ‘I’ve been is this… in such a room before. Made the biggest mistake of my life there. I fell in love.’
‘Love is never a mistake,’ Grindling stated, which caused Morgana to give a hollow laugh.
‘No, surely not,’ she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. ‘This would be why we are both so incredibly cheerful here.’
She downed the rest of her champagne and then looked Grindling straight in the eyes.
‘Are you still in love with Narcissa? Or are you in love with an image of her? A memory?’
Grindling closed his eyes. ‘I do not even like the woman,’ he confessed.
‘And still you can’t let her go. Love is a cruel thing, isn’t it?’
Grindling opened his eyes again and looked at the young witch before him. She was talking from personal experience, so much was clear. And the depth of sadness in her eyes made his heart ache for her.
‘Who hurt you, Morgana?’ he asked quietly. ‘Who has robbed you of your heart at such a young age and made you so wary of love?’
Morgana bit her lip before continuing. She had not shared her feelings with anyone, not even with her best friend. Why she was telling Grindling, she did not know.
‘He wasn’t all that different from you,’ she began. ‘He was handsome, wealthy and successful. And I was young, impressionable and terribly naïve. So when he promised me the moon and the stars, I believed him. But after a while, all I wanted was his heart. And that was the one thing he refused to give. There are those who say that he doesn’t even have one. And that’s where you and he are very different.’
The muscles in her jaw twitched, and despite her fighting them desperately, Grindling could clearly see the tears which were swimming in her eyes.
‘No man should ever have hurt you like this, Morgana,’ he said softly.
‘No man ever will again.’
Her voice was so cold it made Grindling shiver, and as she turned away from him, he did not know what to do. He knew the pain the young witch was talking about. He did not, however, know how to ease it.
‘Whoever this man is, he isn’t worthy to wipe the dirt from your shoes,’ he said in the end. ‘But not all men go around breaking young girls’ hearts.’
He gave an ironic laugh, thinking of Charis. ‘Or at least, we try not to.’
He crossed the room silently and came to stand behind Morgana. She was resolutely staring out of the window, her pale face reflecting in the glass. There were tears hanging on her lashes, tears she had refused to shed for so many lonely nights.
As Grindling reached out his hand for her, Morgana flinched as if his hand were a poisonous snake. But Grindling didn’t shrink back.
‘Don’t be afraid, Morgana,’ he said quietly as he lay a comforting arm around her shoulders. ‘I am not going to hurt you.’
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Latest 25 Reviews for Shooting Stars
112 Reviews | 6.64/10 Average
Great start. Albums would really sacrifice anyone to win the war. I hope both of a star sisters find their happy ending and the war doesn't destroy their souls.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Now you reminded us of that we should wirte a Part 3. :)
well, what can I say? This was a blast from beginning to end. Loved your new characters and how the Malfoys once again play a big part in Morganna's love life. Severus what a naughty man coming up with the three mirrors and him being a bit of a peeping Tom lol. Least he kept his word and did ensure the star sisters safety and nice to see him hinting at them to both wear their star necklaces once more.
The scene where the girls on Christmas Eve made that special spell and vow was beautifully written. Also the Scenes on new years eve and after were tenderly done and not in a harsh way but in a loving one. Even Snapes watching was done with a special feel and not pervy at all. Shall look forward to read more in this series and see if Snape can loose his dark thoughts and become a man who can accept love in the end and be rid of the Lily Ghost.
Thanks for writing and creating this lovely series. Really enjoyed reading it and sorry I did not get time to review every chapter. Consider this worth a hundred reviews.
Congrats.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Every review we get is special, and one like this that conveys the depth of appreciation and affection for our characters is extra special. We're delighted that you enjoyed the series enough to read it all and tell us how much you enjoyed it.Wildcard's response: I do hope you write more in this wonderful series. Good fanfic is hard to find and this is a jewel and worth reading again. Shall look forward to more when you get time to be creative. Thanks again.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Every review we get is special, and one like this that conveys the depth of appreciation and affection for our characters is extra special. We're delighted that you enjoyed the series enough to read it all and tell us how much you enjoyed it.Wildcard's response: I do hope you write more in this wonderful series. Good fanfic is hard to find and this is a jewel and worth reading again. Shall look forward to more when you get time to be creative. Thanks again.
The relationship between Charis and Morgana has become a beautiful thing, and I'm very happy for them and glad that Severus will continue to watch over his girls. One day I hope his heart will be healed and that he will remember how to love. And allow himself to be loved.I'm sad this story has come to an end (for now), but I'm so happy to know that you aren't done with these characters—I've grown quite fond of them. For now we will let them sleep. I want to let you know how much I've enjoyed Star Sisters and now Shooting Stars. You are very gifted writers, and I thank you for sharing this wonderful story with us. I wish you both good days and much happiness. May real life calm down for you, and allow you the opportunity to once again weave this magic you do so well.I give you my thanks with much gratitude and lots of hugs,Beth
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Dearest Beth, receiving your reviews was like a gift to us. To have a reader invest so much emotionally and intellectually into our stories and craft such detailed, thoughtful reviews is a wonderful thing and really kept us going, even when the story was not always easy to write.
You were there every step of the way and we cannot express enough gratitude for that.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Dearest Beth, receiving your reviews was like a gift to us. To have a reader invest so much emotionally and intellectually into our stories and craft such detailed, thoughtful reviews is a wonderful thing and really kept us going, even when the story was not always easy to write.
You were there every step of the way and we cannot express enough gratitude for that.
Mmmm... I think I'd like a cup of tea and a biscuit after reading this chapter! Or perhaps a cigarette? Smoking hot writing, ladies. Thank you from the bottom of my... err... heart!
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
*passes cigarette, chocolate and clean underwear*
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
*passes cigarette, chocolate and clean underwear*
Gorgeous chapter, and I appreciated Snape leaving them be and also not taking himself in hand. As he realises the feeling blossoming in his chest, my heart ached for him a little bit. Then followed "A love he had no part of, a love he would never be able to share with anyone" which summed it all up and put a lump in my throat. Ah, Snape. Forever the tragic anti-hero. Lovely writing.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
We're honoured that our writing got such an emotional response from you and that we got Snape right in this scene - it was important to get it right and from your reaction, we did :-)
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
We're honoured that our writing got such an emotional response from you and that we got Snape right in this scene - it was important to get it right and from your reaction, we did :-)
I enjoyed your creation of Dumbledore's vow and its execution - gentle and manipulative - much like the man himself. I love that Dumbledore also set up their New Year's celebration with Snape, even though, so far at least, Snape hasn't got in on the action! The tenderness between Morgana and Charis is lovely. Reading on...
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Gentle and manipulative works for us! And maybe your exquisite patience will be rewarded if you read on :-)
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Gentle and manipulative works for us! And maybe your exquisite patience will be rewarded if you read on :-)
"The way Ravenclaws seemed to be fascinated by the stars was simply adorable" bahaha! Pity that I didn't realise the significance of the constellation Leo; I've let down team Ravenclaw! At least I'd managed to suss out the connection to Slytherin's locket via the house-elf, thus tracing it back to Black. This is a lovely chapter brimming with charm and intimacy between the Star Sisters, and their spell-casting was beautiful and poignant. I also enjoyed Morgana's metaphor for moving on at the end of the chapter. I must say, though, that you've plotted your story meticulously and have been wonderfully crafty with the prophecy; not just with its puzzle, but also making your story fit seamlessly into canon... After all, we were never told how Dumbledore came to discover the locket. I take my hat off to you, ladies!
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
We've managed to hoodwink a Ravenclaw, that's something to be proud of! But full marks for realising the locket connection. We're so thrilled you enjoyed the prophecy and think it blends into canon seamlessly - we tried really hard to make it work and it caused our brains to hurt on several occassions!
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
We've managed to hoodwink a Ravenclaw, that's something to be proud of! But full marks for realising the locket connection. We're so thrilled you enjoyed the prophecy and think it blends into canon seamlessly - we tried really hard to make it work and it caused our brains to hurt on several occassions!
Now it's time to turn fantasy into reality for Severus and his girls--can the teasing giggling be leading up to them beckoning him over to their side *hopeful look*--great menage-a-trois dynamics; I really like Morgana's sexuality being released and expressed, reinforcing her healing from the past and embracing the present and future; Charis' divine sub positions--yum! and as I said last chapter, Severus is one lucky wizard... *sighing* Lovely, dynamic, lemony chapter as always!xxx
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Thank you for your kind words, as always :-) We're hoping to be able to wrap everything up nicely in the next chapter.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Thank you for your kind words, as always :-) We're hoping to be able to wrap everything up nicely in the next chapter.
As I began reading this chapter I was so surprised that I had to go back and read the end of the previous chapter to be sure I understood what had happened... which, of course, I didn't, but I didn't know that until Severus woke up that I realized it was his dream. You two ladies are masters of the twisty plot. Well done!
Dreaming as he had been, I was glad he allowed himself to carry his dream to fruition in the shower. Perhaps this "Sweet Release" will help him get through the coming storm. Soon he will have to kill Dumbledore and then endure his tenure as Headmaster until the entire house of cards comes falling down.
I was very happy for him when heard Charis and Morgana talking and giggling in their activated mirrors. It would be very sweet if his dream became a reality after all is said and done. But I'm not kidding myself one tiny bit that I can predict just what you two have in mind for these three dear people. The only thing I'm sure of right now is that I'll be sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for the next update.
Thank you for a very nice chapter!!!
Beth
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Ah, dreams ... They can be rather wonderful :-) Earlier this week, the next chapter has finally been written and is now awaiting embellishing and polishing. Shouldn't be long, hopefully :-)
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Ah, dreams ... They can be rather wonderful :-) Earlier this week, the next chapter has finally been written and is now awaiting embellishing and polishing. Shouldn't be long, hopefully :-)
It's a relief for Morgana and Charis that they have finally and truly shared their love for each other. And not only a relief for the two of them, but for Severus as well, I think. He has such strong feelings for both of them, and I think knowing that they have declared their love and cemented their relationship has given him peace of mind that they will be all right no matter what happens.
He loved those two girls dearly in his own special way. They would never know, of course, but he hoped that every now and then, they would remember him with fondness.
This chapter has really touched my heart. I don't know what will happen to Severus, and it makes me sad to think of him being alone. I hope he can find something or someone to "hang onto" as future events unfold. Be kind to him, ladies. Be kind.Beth
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Beth! We are so sorry for having let you wait so long for a resposnse! We really hate the fact that real life is not letting us play around in the sandbox that is fan fic as much as we would like to! Grrr! As always, we thank you for your kind words and we will try to fulfill your wish about Severus.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Beth! We are so sorry for having let you wait so long for a resposnse! We really hate the fact that real life is not letting us play around in the sandbox that is fan fic as much as we would like to! Grrr! As always, we thank you for your kind words and we will try to fulfill your wish about Severus.
Mmmn... beautiful! Love their love-making, giving and sharing to each other the way each one needs, and Severus witnessing it--some wizards have all the luck! What a lovely way to bring in the New Year!
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Mmmmm, just re-read the chapter. It was indeed lovely :-)
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Mmmmm, just re-read the chapter. It was indeed lovely :-)
I love this story even more than the last one.
I have no idea how the two of you do it but I am grateful that you do.
Sorry for not leaving reviews before now, but it is often difficult to find words for my appreciation! Rest assured that I always eagerly await the next instalment.
Such a beautiful and unusual story... the pair of you need to create a universe of your own! I'm sure we could expect great things from such imaginations! Perhaps just as great as the universe that brought your two formidable minds together!
Thank you.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
First of all, our sincerest apologies for taking so much time to answer your lovely review. We normally don't let our readers wait that long, but real life has no sense for good timing. We want you to know that your kind words made our day! :-) The dream to create something original is certainly there, and one of us is already trying hard to make it happen. Hopefully, the dream will soon come true.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
First of all, our sincerest apologies for taking so much time to answer your lovely review. We normally don't let our readers wait that long, but real life has no sense for good timing. We want you to know that your kind words made our day! :-) The dream to create something original is certainly there, and one of us is already trying hard to make it happen. Hopefully, the dream will soon come true.
‘When the rope dissolves and we let go of each other, neither of you will be able to convey what you have learnt here today,’ Dumbledore explained. ‘You will have a faint memory of our conversation with Kreacher, but trying to remember the details will be like trying to remember a dream. The harder you try, the further will it drift away. And unless we three stand here once more, with our hands entwined, you will never be able to remember.’Damn. I wish the girls had not had to agree to take that vow. But if they hadn't, then he would have Obliviated them. I hope they really will be safer not remembering the prophecy.I can't help but wish Severus didn't have to spend New Year's Eve with only a bottle of Ogden's to keep him company while he watches his girls coming to understand the depth of their feelings for each other. With Severus already upstairs and the girls on their way up the stairs, I wonder if they'll run into each other? I'm off to the next chapter to find out. :^)Beth
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Our sincerest apologies for taking so long to reply! Real Life is demanding far too much attention at the moment! We hate to let our readers hanging!
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Our sincerest apologies for taking so long to reply! Real Life is demanding far too much attention at the moment! We hate to let our readers hanging!
With Grindling moving to Greece for good, I guess there's no way he will be a regular part of either of the girls' lives. Sometimes I think it's better just to move on and cut your losses, but I know Charis and Morgana will be sad when they realize he has left his position at the Ministry and packed up lock, stock, and barrel.
That was a lovely spell that Charis created to permanently join the girls' star necklaces together. It was pretty cool the way Morgana's star glowed Ravenclaw blue and Charis' glowed Slytherin green. I was tickled when Charis solved the riddle of the prophecy- all that time studying Astronomy really paid off! Now Dumbledore wants them to wait a week. Perhaps he does want to do some research of his own.
I'm glad Morgana has a new Patronus- a majestic black feline is much better than her old Peacock. It's very telling that they have such similar Patronuses, isn't it? It seems like their world is settling into something solid and stable, but with Grindling out of the picture (for now, anyway) I'm wondering what Severus will do? Poor man is damned if he does and damned if he doesn't. Speaking of Severus... what is he doing right now?
Beth
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
We're getting very close to the end now, and we have been so honoured to have you along for the ride. Having your thoughtful reviews has encouraged and delighted us in equal measure.
We hope we won't have to keep you very long for the next chapter and we once again thank you for all your unwavering support.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
We're getting very close to the end now, and we have been so honoured to have you along for the ride. Having your thoughtful reviews has encouraged and delighted us in equal measure.
We hope we won't have to keep you very long for the next chapter and we once again thank you for all your unwavering support.
It seems that it has taken tonight's events and their outcomes to bring Severus to the point where he can relax enough to realize that Charis and Morgana love each other. But I'm not sure if they can be happy with only each other. Grindling loves Charis, and I think he has very strong feelings for Morgana as well. Charis loves Severus, and Morgana feels very safe with him. Severus loves Charis and Morgana. And I have absolutely no idea how this is going to work out. There are a number of permutations that come to mind, and one of them is that Severus, Charis, and Morgana become a threesome family. Or Grindling could make for a foursome family. Or Grindling could find himself with Narcissa when all hell breaks loose and Lucius ends up dead or in prison for the rest of his life. Or if Severus dies, then Grindling, Charis and Morgana could make a life together.This emotional awakening Severus has undergone, leaves me feeling very afraid for him. I fear he will go willingly to meet death so long as he thinks "his girls" are safe and happy. Is he falling into well of dark resignation?Thank you for this thought provoking chapter, ladies. I still don't have any idea how this will all turn out, and now I have an even longer list of possible outcomes. You are masters of mystery!Beth
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
We have created a huge mess, haven't we? We're working on a couple of chapters that will hopefully untangle and tie up loose ends. Hopefully... Thank you, as always, for your support!!
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
We have created a huge mess, haven't we? We're working on a couple of chapters that will hopefully untangle and tie up loose ends. Hopefully... Thank you, as always, for your support!!
The place where Ravenclaws always took comfort and solitude: the library.' This had e tearing up! And the delicious lemony, Snapey goodness-sene has me saying, Merlin's balls, sevs_starsisters, yes, yes, yes! and more, more, more! *taking a deep satisfied sigh* Thank you! (and Miss Charis needs to heed Sev's advice for her and Morgana--speaking of which, can't wait for Sev's jetsetting over to Malfoy manor, maybe Ms Morgana needs some *special* attention too from the Potions master--he is suppose to take care of both his girls *decadent cackle* Lovely, yummy chapter, as always!xxx
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Got to love you decadent cackle!! :-)
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Got to love you decadent cackle!! :-)
Poor, dear Grindling--lovely moments and chemistry and trust between these two, only to be breathtakingly blown away with the scene between Morgana and Severus--yes, yes, yes! Could feel Morgana breaking through and liberating herself with Severus *perfect, bloody f------ perfect* Thank you!! xxx
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
So chuffed you're reading and reviewing on two archives. Thank you so much!!
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
So chuffed you're reading and reviewing on two archives. Thank you so much!!
Now I see what you meant when you told me that Severus would feel pretty guilty... but I have to wonder just how guilty he really felt. Still and all, Morgana is free from the weight of a millstone named Lucius Malfoy, and Severus has promised that Narcissa will not bother her again. Even crazy Bellatrix served a useful purpose. Thanks to her, Grindling has heard Narcissa say the words that set him free... at least I hope he is free from Narcissa's machinations. In the study, Severus told Morgana to ‘Enjoy a Malfoy-free life. Spend time with the ones who love you the most.’ He left before she could ask who he meant, and then I remembered that Grindling had told her that he wished things could have been different. Soooo... could it be that Grindling has a bit of a crush on Morgana, or is he still in love with the memory of Narcissa... or will he return to Charis? They will see each other because they're trying to solve the Prophesy, but what will they think about the things that have happened in the last few hours? Charis will be thinking about "her boss" and her former teacher. Morgana will be thinking about her former teacher. Narcissa will be thinking about wringing her sister's neck, and mourning the loss of perhaps the only opportunity to regain her husband's freedom and their lost stature in the ranks of the purebloods. Severus will be thinking about both Charis and Morgana... I wish I knew what was going through Severus' mind in regard to both of "his girls." I still can't shake the feeling that he really holds romantic thoughts about Charis, but I have to say you ladies really do keep the waters muddied up enough that I can't ever be sure. Maybe Morgana and Grindling will be attracted to each other, and... *sigh*What is going to go on at Malfoy Manor will all those Death Eaters still there? Oh what a tangled web we weave....Great chapter. As always!Beth
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Braye - let me start by saying thank you. Your review was just what we needed today - feeling a bit wobbly to say the least and your words of support mean so much. It's good to hear that we can still keep you guessing, even as the story itself is finally turning a corner. We hope all the answers to your questions will be revealed over the next few chapters. Until then - huge hugs! And eternal thanks! xx
Response from braye27 (Reviewer)
I can't understand why more readers haven't checked this out. Or maybe they have and just don't leave reviews. Either way, this is one of my all time favorite Snape stories that isn't SSHG. Your writing, the way you structure your story - chapter by chapter, clue by clue - is among the best I've EVER read. It's not all PWP. It's not cookie-cutter. It gives me something to get my teeth into. It makes me go back to earlier chapters to "scratch that little itch in the back of my brain" when I read something that I recognize but can't place. I know it's important, and I can't help myself. I have to go back and try to put the clues together. Please accept my heartfelt thanks for writing this story and its predecessor. Thank you for not giving up. Thank you for making it so very nice to come home after a long day at work and being able to find a new chapter. You ROCK! A Thousand Points to Your House!Hugs you back,Beth
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Braye - let me start by saying thank you. Your review was just what we needed today - feeling a bit wobbly to say the least and your words of support mean so much. It's good to hear that we can still keep you guessing, even as the story itself is finally turning a corner. We hope all the answers to your questions will be revealed over the next few chapters. Until then - huge hugs! And eternal thanks! xx
Response from braye27 (Reviewer)
I can't understand why more readers haven't checked this out. Or maybe they have and just don't leave reviews. Either way, this is one of my all time favorite Snape stories that isn't SSHG. Your writing, the way you structure your story - chapter by chapter, clue by clue - is among the best I've EVER read. It's not all PWP. It's not cookie-cutter. It gives me something to get my teeth into. It makes me go back to earlier chapters to "scratch that little itch in the back of my brain" when I read something that I recognize but can't place. I know it's important, and I can't help myself. I have to go back and try to put the clues together. Please accept my heartfelt thanks for writing this story and its predecessor. Thank you for not giving up. Thank you for making it so very nice to come home after a long day at work and being able to find a new chapter. You ROCK! A Thousand Points to Your House!Hugs you back,Beth
Hot dayum! Hot DAYUM! I am so damned happy that Severus and Charis had their "alone time" in the library... and he was so tender and made sure she had the orgasm of her life before he had his.‘The stars,’ he said and pointed at his throat as if to indicate a necklace he was wearing. ‘Renew the charm. Wear them. The both of you.’He still cares for Charis. His kiss on her cheek and urgging her and Morganna to wear their star necklaces proves it beyond all doubt.Thanks, I needed that! *grinning*Beth
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
He does indeed care for both his girls, and he swore he'd look out for them both. However, he's going to be feeling pretty guilty after this encounter... that's all we can say for now! Thanks, as ever, for your support x
Response from braye27 (Reviewer)
He's going to be feeling guilty?!?!?! Ohnoes. What are you two up to this time? I can't wait to see what you've cooked up this time.You iz
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
He does indeed care for both his girls, and he swore he'd look out for them both. However, he's going to be feeling pretty guilty after this encounter... that's all we can say for now! Thanks, as ever, for your support x
Response from braye27 (Reviewer)
He's going to be feeling guilty?!?!?! Ohnoes. What are you two up to this time? I can't wait to see what you've cooked up this time.You iz
Of all the rooms for Narcissa to choose from... I wonder just what Narcissa knows and what she doesn't know about Morgana and Lucius? Could Narcissa have some other motive we don't yet know about? I don't think so, but I have learned not to underestimate you ladies, either.In the meantime, what are Snape and Charis doing in thier search for the meaning of the prophesy? Sooner or later one of them is bound to say or do something that comfirms for the other that there are still real and deep emotions involved between. I can't wait to see what you have in store for our lovely characters next? Hope to see the next chapter soon!!!Berh
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Hm, interesting question you had there about Narcissa. Just how much DOES she know? ... We have the next three or four chapters outlined, and we can promise you that there WILL be some, um, actions that will show exactly what our beloved characters feel for each other. We're hoping that our RLs calm down soon, so we can write out fingers off. Thank you for your patience and support.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Hm, interesting question you had there about Narcissa. Just how much DOES she know? ... We have the next three or four chapters outlined, and we can promise you that there WILL be some, um, actions that will show exactly what our beloved characters feel for each other. We're hoping that our RLs calm down soon, so we can write out fingers off. Thank you for your patience and support.
I hope she opens up. It would be good for her to get it out. Grindling is a complex character; not quite sure what to make of him yet. I'm glad you're still writing this story, I love following it. 5 stars.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Morgana is Slytherin. When it comes to burying her emotions deep inside her heart, she has learnt from the best. It's not healthy, but it's what Slytherins seem to do best. We apologize for the long wait, but life has been very busy. But with summer and long evening approaching, we hope to soon be able to post a new chapter. Thank you for your support!
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Morgana is Slytherin. When it comes to burying her emotions deep inside her heart, she has learnt from the best. It's not healthy, but it's what Slytherins seem to do best. We apologize for the long wait, but life has been very busy. But with summer and long evening approaching, we hope to soon be able to post a new chapter. Thank you for your support!
Well, Charis got the info she needed. She just needs to remember her astronomy now.I've known this pair of stories have been out there for some time but avoided reading them because they were not about canon-centric characters. But I took a chance and I've really enjoyed them. I look forward to finding out what happens. Keep up the good work!
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Thank you for taking a chance on our stories, we're really thrilled you've enjoyed them and we hope you'll stick with the sequel. Thanks again for your support, it means a lot!
Response from Phyllidia (Reviewer)
May I say I never expected you two to answer ALL my reviews since I left a ton of them at one time. But thank you. If I've put you behind on your writing, feel free to blame me.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
We try to answer all our reviews. It's so nice to get feedback, and we like to show that we appreciate your thoughts. And no worries, you haven't slowed us down. Next chapter is being beta-read at the moment and we have done plenty of plotting. Lemons ahead ;-)
Response from Phyllidia (Reviewer)
Ah lemon....one of my favorite flavors!
I think Charis is far too forgiving (maybe I just don't like Grindling).TeeHee, Severus is SOOOOO BAD. I love him.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
He's a naughty boy! and that's why we love him, right?
Oooh the plot thickens. I think I've figured out most of the prophecy, now to watch as the characters figure it out.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Let's see if you're right :)
I am glad it was cleared up that Morgana is NOT the one Grindling was talking about. She has enough worries. And go her for standing up for her friend.
Response from sevs_starsisters (Author of Shooting Stars)
Yes, Morgana kicked ass :)