XXXII: Reflections and Realisations
Chapter 32 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 XXXII: Reflections and Realisations
Snape didn't want to leave Malfoy Manor. Not really. Narcissa was in distress, to say the least, and Snape couldn't help but blame himself for at least part of her misery. After all, it had been him who had suggested to her to take Morgana under her wing. And when he had taken the Unbreakable Vow, swearing to protect Narcissa's son, he had by extension sworn to protect her as well. He couldn't just leave her now. But there were too many thoughts running through his head for him to be any useful support for Narcissa that night. He had to sort things out for himself first. Just for once, he had to be selfish.
On pausing at the door of the lounge, Snape looked once more back over his shoulder. Narcissa was still sitting on the chaise longue where she had collapsed almost an hour ago. She had been stubbornly strong while her sister had still been around and had deflected Bellatrix's taunts with a dignity only a few people could muster. But when Bellatrix had left, Narcissa's façade had crumbled, and the tears had run down her pale cheeks. Tears which no one was allowed to see. No one except Snape. And he had sat silently by her side, waiting for her to reach out should she feel the need to. But she had cried silently, without as much as reaching for his hand, and Snape decided that there was nothing more he could do.
'I lost them both. Morgana and Grindling. I messed up. I pressured them too much.'
Slowly, Snape turned around to face the blonde witch.
'You brought two lonely people together. Is that not something to be proud of?' he asked. Narcissa was under the impression that Morgana and Grindling had left together, and Snape thought it wise to let her believe just that.
Narcissa sniffed.
'Perhaps. But I meant to win them for... for the cause. I meant to...'
Narcissa wiped her tears with a delicate handkerchief and thus missed Snape clenching his jaws. He knew what she had meant to do, what she had hoped for. She had meant to present a pair of lovers sprung from two of the oldest Wizarding bloodlines to the Dark Lord. As a present, on a silver plate. And she had hoped that the Dark Lord would reward her for it and welcome her, her son and her husband back into the fold.
'All is not lost,' Snape said, despite him knowing that it was a lie. He had always known. 'Grindling might yet come to his senses. He has forgiven you before.'
The sound in his voice was bitter. He didn't like Grindling Gibbons. Never had and never would. But he had seen a broken man tonight, a man who had been let down by the one he thought he loved. And Severus Snape, if anyone, knew how that felt. Grindling would never return. He would never forgive. But if the lie gave any comfort to Narcissa that night, then so be it.
'There is nothing you can do tonight, Narcissa,' Snape pointed out. 'Go to bed, try to sleep. The world might look brighter tomorrow.'
He turned on his heel and headed once more for the door.
'Are you sure you won't stay a little longer?'
The tone of Narcissa's voice was pleading, and Snape knew it took much for her to ask that of him. But he just could not give her what she needed tonight. So he shook his head slowly, pity flickering in his black eyes.
'I am sorry, Narcissa. I have to go.'
He paused, searching for the right thing to say. After some moments, he spoke again.
'As much as it pains me to admit it, maybe there is some truth in what your sister says. Maybe it is time to focus your efforts in aiding Draco. Grindling and the girl are not your only chance to get back into the Dark Lord's good books: if Draco succeeds, the Dark Lord will reward you both beyond measure. And if Draco should fail, then I am sworn to help you both.'
Narcissa gave Snape a watery smile at this, and now it was tears of gratitude that swam in her eyes.
'Oh, Severus, whatever would I do without you?'
Snape gave her one final meaningful look.
'Goodnight, Narcissa.'
And with that, he turned and billowed out of the lounge and into the dimness of the grand hallway, his mind buzzing with thoughts. Never before had the walk that lead to the front door seemed so long, and the clicking of his boots had never echoed so loudly through the manor, and when he finally reached the outdoors, he inhaled the crisp winter air as desperately as a drowning man. At last, he was alone with his thoughts and had a chance to reflect on the evening's events.
He had certainly not planned for anything that had happened that night and had been totally surprised by the outcome. Surprised, shocked and slightly appalled. How could he have let this happen? How could he have breached the one rule he had thought unbreakable? How could he have touched both his girls when he had sworn to protect them? How much damage had he caused?
He had never meant to touch Morgana. She had been off limits ever since Lucius had claimed her. For what Lucius Malfoy considered his, no other man was allowed to touch. But Snape had touched her. More than a year ago, right here in the garden of the manor, he had kissed her feverishly only moments after having pulled her from Lucius' claws. He had barely been able to keep himself from ravishing her that afternoon. And tonight, he had...
Snape spun around, and his eyes darted up towards the window of Lucius' study. It had been Morgana who had initiated their kiss. Just like that afternoon in the garden, she had gotten on her toes and pressed her lips on his.
Snape mentally slapped himself. How dare he put the blame on the girl? She was innocent, damaged. Malfoy had destroyed her, ground her confidence into dust and left nothing more behind than a broken heart. The girl was so afraid of getting hurt again that no man was allowed to come close. Snape doubted that she had even fully trusted Grindling.
Yet she had kissed him. She had reached up on tiptoes and placed the gentlest of kisses on his lips, and Snape had known that pulling away would have been a crushing rejection. And so he'd let her kiss him, at first tentatively and then with more and more passion, until it was like Morgana somehow had a point to prove.
In order to get over a wizard, you have to get under one was a phrase Snape had once heard in the Slytherin common room, and whilst he found this analogy to be crude in the extreme, it seemed there was some truth in it. Morgana had needed this tonight. She had needed closeness and intimacy. She had needed him, a man she knew that she could trust. And so he had reassured her every step of the way, knowing that she was the one who needed to hold the power if she were to see the whole thing through, and before he knew it, Morgana had been grinding on top of him, losing her inhibitions in a way Snape had never thought possible. And afterwards, when she had unclipped the snake pendant that dangled habitually at her throat these days and let it drop to the floor, Snape had known that Morgana was finally free of the blond Slytherin who had dominated her heart since he had first sunk his fangs into her.
But where did this leave her now? She had stood tall when he had left her. Her protective walls had been stronger than ever, and she had held his gaze unwavering. She had made no move towards him, nor had she begged for any sign of affection. May Merlin grant that her composure was not just for show, that she really was in control of her heart now. At last.
Snape Disapparated from the front gate, and during the few moments it took him to Apparate to the boundaries of Hogwarts, his mind was actually untroubled. But when he walked towards the castle, his eyes were drawn to the still illuminated windows of Slughorn's office on the sixth floor, and Snape grew once more uneasy. Had Charis returned to the party, he wondered? He hoped that she had and that she was having a good time, but he did not dare go check. For if she saw him, what signals would that send? Would she understand his reasons for checking up on her, that he felt responsible for her and that he wanted to know that she was alright? Or would she think that he was yearning for her, and would the fine line between lust and love once more be blurred?
He should not have touched her, Snape knew that, and his question of whether she could keep lust and love apart had been nothing but farce. He'd known that she'd say anything at that point just for him to continue giving her the pleasure and attention she so desperately craved.
Snape drew a shuddering breath. With Charis, it was like a mutual itch that needed to be scratched. He'd set out the terms of their coupling and she had agreed, even if it all came down to pure, old-fashioned lust. She had not been in a position to fight him, and he had once more taken advantage of her, against his better judgement. He hadn't set out to seduce her, but the opportunity had presented itself. And Slytherins never let an opportunity slip through their fingers.
Descending to the dungeons, Snape reflected upon the blonde witch with those devastatingly pretty green eyes. He had noticed them initially when she had let them wander across the staff table at the night of her Sorting. He had never forgotten that curious and intelligent look in them. Neither had he forgotten the way she had at once lowered her gaze as he had glared back at her.
He couldn't remember the exact moment when he had noticed that she had grown into a young woman, a woman with soft, feminine curves, and he definitely couldn't remember when he had started to be drawn to her, just like a moth to a flame. Most probably, such things didn't happen during one distinct moment but grew over the years. Charis had always struck Snape as very sweet, gentle of heart and shy. Difficult to anger even when he deliberately provoked her, she held her calm even if he knew she was a mass of confusion underneath. Maybe part of his attraction to her was that to him she always seemed so... pure. Of course, she was no virgin, yet something about her struck Snape as being untainted and, therefore, opposite to himself. Maybe, on a subconscious level, he drank from the purity of Charis to try to purge himself of his sullied nature. And there was something about her innate submissiveness that Snape could not deny was very attractive indeed.
And then there was Morgana, Charis' best friend, red-haired and with icy blue eyes, always calculating and with a cold, detached attitude that reminded Snape so much of himself when he had been at her age. Just like him back then, Morgana had walked dangerously close to the edge of the dark abyss. But while he had tumbled over the edge, she had been pulled back, by the very friend whose kindness Snape himself valued so much. And as much as Charis' submissive nature appealed to him, he could not deny that Morgana's dominant qualities excited him as well.
They were both beautiful in their own way, his two girls, and yet nothing alike, Snape thought as he closed the door of his quarters behind him. But for all their differences, they were the perfect match. Two sides of the same coin. Two halves of a whole. They had always been inseparably close since their very first year in Hogwarts. Snape remembered how he had found it more than curious when he had first seen them work together in his class, the Muggle-born Ravenclaw and the pureblood Slytherin. To many, their friendship had seemed like an abomination, and many would have bet their last Galleon that it was not going to last. But Snape had watched their friendship grow and prosper. He had watched them work together and study together. He had seen them laugh together and knew that they had consoled each other many times in a way no one else could. And then he had tried to drive them apart, just because he did not want any of them to get hurt like the way he had been hurt by his best friend. His only friend.
What a fool he had been, he realised as he picked up the tiny silver mirror that was resting on the mantel piece in his study. There had never been any need to test the girls' loyalties. They would always find their way back to each other, no matter how many obstacles how many men that stood between them. Because those two girls shared something Snape and Lily had never had: endless trust, undying devotion. They truly were soul mates, if such a thing existed.
Snape turned the mirror over in his hands, desperately hoping that the girls would get in touch so he could see them in the looking glass. But it was long past midnight. Probably, they were both fast asleep.
So instead, Snape closed his eyes, conjuring up memories of the two. He saw them in his classroom, combining Ravenclaw brains and Slytherin ambition to produce potions that would impress their teacher. He saw them sitting at each other's bedside in the hospital wing, refusing to rest before they knew their friend was out of danger. He saw them laugh together, cry together. And he saw them curl up together in Charis' bed, Morgana still frozen from her harrowing experience at Azkaban prison and Charis protectively wrapping her arms around her as to warm her. They had held each other tightly that night, and it had been Morgana who had placed the first, tender kiss on Charis' neck.
Snape's eyes flew open, a look of realisation in them. What he had witnessed between the girls that night had been more than tenderness between friends. Such caresses, such intimacy was shared by lovers, not friends. He had thought of it that night, but had been so preoccupied by his anger towards Moody and his worries for Morgana that he had put that thought aside. Now he wondered how he had been able to do so. It was so clear, so obvious. How could he have missed the signs?
He had witnessed evidence of the girls growing closer for months through the enchanted mirrors. He had seen Morgana tenderly kiss Charis' neck as would a lover, mere moments before the attack on Fortescue's in Diagon Alley. He had witnessed them curl up together in Charis' bed, exchanging caresses, whilst Morgana had mumbled that Charis always smelled of roses.
Roses.
Snape's mouth went dry as he felt like he'd been hit by a Stunner as the final piece of evidence fell into place. Morgana had always said Amortensia smelled to her like roses. And that was why! She was in love with Charis. And judging by Charis' continued gentle acceptance of Morgana's timid affections, Charis surely felt the same way.
Snape shook his head. He couldn't believe he'd been so foolish not to see it before. It had all been in front of his abnormally large nose, but he'd been too mixed up in his own pettiness to see it. All this time he'd been confusing the girls, at first setting out to make them jealous but then becoming irresistibly drawn to them and finally seducing them both. But the girls didn't need him, or Lucius Malfoy, Grindling Gibbons, Blaise Zabini or any other man to be happy. They'd suffered enough heartache from their various encounters with men that it would last them a lifetime, Snape thought, feeling a stab of guilt as he knew that much of their heartache had been over him. Now all the girls needed was each other, Snape saw this all too clearly. And he hoped that sooner rather than later, Charis and Morgana would realise this themselves.
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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 :)