Early Days at the Manor

A/N: I don't own anything you recognize.

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Ch 4 – Early days at the Manor

The next several days were an absolute blur. The Headmaster was doing well, so we moved him immediately. His rooms were the primary guest chambers in the family wing. The Malfoys offered me use of a cottage on the grounds; it was connected to the main house by Floo. I appreciated the gesture greatly. The Manor was a bit intimidating for me; therefore, having my own space provided immense comfort. I wished to impose on the family as little possible.

I coordinated the transfer of patients to St. Mungo's; we also selected a handful of patients to transfer to Malfoy Manor that we thought needed more privacy than the hospital could provide. Orby and I worked with the Malfoys and their elves to set up one of the guest wings to handle patients.

The elder Malfoys were accommodating and polite. They maintained their distance from me at first. One of them was at the Headmaster's side during most waking hours. To my surprise, Draco Malfoy assisted the elves with the transfiguration of the opulent guest rooms into simple, serviceable, and friendly patient rooms. He conducted himself in a superior and haughty fashion, but his actions told a different story. He was truly seeing to the comfort of the patients.

"Lavender is a Gryffindor, Boppy. And she's more girlish than you can imagine. But nothing too garish, or else I might vomit." Boppy, a young female elf, nodded vigorously. She snapped her fingers, and the room turned a lovely soft crème color. The windows were trimmed with scarlet curtains. Two vases appeared on the side tables filled with gorgeous bright yellow flowers. The bed was adorned with a soft comforter that was delicate and feminine. Several magazines appeared on the table. Three sets of robes appeared in the wardrobe. They were simply cut, but attractive. It truly was a room that would please any young girl.

"Thomas is an artist. Make sure he has a sketchpad and drawing pencils. He's also fascinated with some Muggle sport. I can't remember the name: it's something ridiculous where you aren't allowed to use your hands." He waved his hand dismissively.

I tried to help. "Soccer?"

"Maybe, but it does not matter. Boppy will figure it out." He strode away, issuing orders to the house-elves. He was firm and succinct, but he was not unkind. The elves hopped about; they seemed pleased to be helpful. I couldn't help but think that Draco's socialite mother would be quite proud of both his command and his sense of hospitality.

***************

After about a week, Severus' throat was healed enough for him to speak. I entered into his room cautiously.

"Good morning, Headmaster Snape. Please allow me to run some tests this morning."

"Clearly, I cannot stop you, but tell me what exactly you plan to do to me."

"I need to check your blood, sir. The antivenin you administered was amazingly effective against the toxicity, but your levels have not been returning to normal as quickly as I would like."

"Did it ever occur to you that there might be a reason for that?" His voice signaled his impatience.

"I'm sure there is, sir, but there's very little research on this type of creature. There's only one other documented case of an attack like this." I snapped his chart closed, irritated by his demeanor.

"Indeed. And it didn't occur to you to find out who treated the other patient?"

"St. Mungo's is in a bit of chaos at the moment, Headmaster."

"Do stop calling me that, Healer Prewett. My tenure as Headmaster was unpleasant."

"Of course, how would you prefer to be addressed?" Silence. I smirked. He hadn't thought that far ahead. I decided to challenge him a bit further. "Well, sir. I'm not one for formality. You may call me Elizabeth if you prefer."

"Severus," he gritted, as if allowing the familiarity was painful. "You may call me Severus." I raised an eyebrow at him.

"Was that so difficult? I assure you, Severus, I understand you are a private man. I can certainly respect that."

"Thank you, Healer ... Elizabeth. Is it too much to hope there was a point to your earlier questions?"

"Yes, as I was trying to say, since you had the antivenin on your person, I'm guessing you know more about the snake than I do. Did you expect the antivenin to work in one dose?"

"No, he said derisively. "I will need several doses. Arthur required three, and his wounds were not made directly into the bloodstream."

"How? You know the details of Arthur's case?"

"Just whom do you think St. Mungo's consulted?" It seemed the answer must be the most obvious in the world.

"Well, sir, I wouldn't have guessed you. You, Severus, seem a bit, um, anti-establishment."

He first looked irritated, and then his faced relaxed a bit. He smirked. "They consulted Dumbledore. HE consulted me."

"Ah, I see. Well, three doses does prove a bit daunting. We did put the snake in stasis, so to the extent you need ingredients from the body, I can have Orby go to Hogwarts and bring it here. That still leaves us with the problem of a brewer. I'm guessing it is not a simple potion."

Severus looked appalled. "Are you completely daft? Obviously, I'm capable of brewing the potion."

"Obviously," I started sharply; I was about to lose my temper, "you possess the skills. However, in your current state of health, Severus, do you really think it wise? How taxing is the brewing process? How time consuming?" He seemed to calm down a bit at this point and considered my words.

"I will need an assistant. The process takes several days, but there are only a few areas that are particularly complex; I can handle those. I do not wish to share my space with another Potions master, nor do I wish to share my brewing secrets with a stranger. Lucius has a rather fine laboratory. Draco is a competent brewer; he can assist with the process if he and his parents agree."

"That sounds like a reasonable plan. Are you comfortable preparing a list of ingredients? I can have Orby collect them for you. He will certainly keep your secrets."

"Thank you. I need to speak to all three Malfoys. I won't volunteer Draco for this task without all of their consent."

"I will have one of the elves fetch them. And, I know it's not my place to say so, but I think having Draco assist you is an excellent idea. He is a smart young man, but he seems lost at the moment. Perhaps you could serve as a mentor to him."

"Well," a smooth voice cut in, and I looked up to see the elegant figure of Narcissa Malfoy, "it certainly is not your place to say so. However, you may have a point. Years ago, before he even left for Hogwarts, Draco expressed interest in being a Healer. I know Lucius hopes to see him in business, but I don't know if he sees that as his path. Perhaps this experiment could help him find his way."

She paused, "Boppy, come." Boppy appeared in the doorway. "Go fetch Lord Malfoy and Draco immediately. Tell them that Severus wishes to speak to them." Boppy disappeared. I started to leave the room.

"Healer Prewett, if you would stay, I think your input would be valuable."

Lucius and Draco walked in a few moments later. I had taken a seat at the desk in the sitting area. Narcissa was perched on the small settee gracefully.

"Mother, Severus, is everything all right?" Draco looked confused by his mother's summons. Lucius merely looked inconvenienced.

"Everything is as it should be, Draco. There is a matter of some delicacy that I thought we should discuss. Severus, would you like to explain? I do not wish to speak for you."

"Nagini's venom is quite powerful. I brewed a potion two years ago that neutralized the venom's effect from small bites. It is what was given to Arthur Weasley at St. Mungo's. Dumbledore provided it to the main healer, who was a supporter of the Order. Since it came through Dumbledore, nobody questioned the potion or its contents.

"The potion Arthur took was effective, but it took 3 doses for his blood to completely expel the poison and return to normal. However, Arthur's bites were mostly superficial. I do not know, but I expect that potion would not have saved my life in the shack."

"Wait," I interjected, "so you've improved the potion?"

"Indeed. I added a trace element of a very special and very rare ingredient." I gasped. Severus must have figured out what I was thinking. "No, not unicorn blood. Phoenix tears." At first, I breathed a sigh of relief and understanding. Then, I was hit with a new wave of concern.

"Severus, how on earth did you acquire Phoenix tears?" I held up my hand. "Actually, perhaps I don't want you to answer that."

"Such dramatics," he said silkily. "Dumbledore's familiar was a phoenix named Fawkes. He left Hogwarts after Dumbledore's funeral. He came back one night when I'd had a nasty run in with Voldemort trying to protect a student. Fawkes allowed me to collect a vial of his tears. I think he intended for me to use them myself, but I saved his tears. I knew there would come a time when they would be needed. I saved some in a vial in the magical safe in the Headmaster's office at Hogwarts. I used a small amount in the potion; it was just enough to begin the healing process at the cellular level.

"Honestly, I had saved the rest for Potter. I thought I could slip them to him and protect him. However, I was attacked before I had the chance to tell him. I TRIED to tell him that night in the shack; the dunderhead boy didn't listen."

I felt the urge to change the subject. Severus may have protected Harry Potter, but he certainly didn't seem to like the boy.

"So, you still have some of the tears? You are going to need another dose of the potion. Your levels are worse today than yesterday. Only slightly, but still, I feel that delaying would be dangerous."

"The tears are at Hogwarts. Only the Headmaster/Headmistress can open the safe."

"That won't be an issue, I don't think," I said.

"Are you saying that you are going to allow me to travel, Elizabeth?" Lucius and Narcissa both looked surprised at his use of my first name. I fought the urge to chuckle at the reaction, because I was not sure how the room would take the next piece of news.

"Severus, Minerva was named Headmistress. The board believes that you have passed away. She sent me an owl last night. She is at the castle supervising the cleanup and restoration of the castle and the grounds. She wished for me to tell you that when you are ready to rejoin society, she would step down if you wish to return."

"That's nonsense. Minerva would have held the position if Voldemort had not controlled the Ministry. She is better suited to the role than I am. She deserves it."

"I'm glad you feel that way, Severus. She'll be able to open the safe for us and get the tears. I'll owl her as soon as we finish here."

"When you send your elf for the snake, he can pick up the tears from Minerva."

"How long does the potion take to brew?" Lucius asked cautiously.

"Three days," Severus offered.

"Is he going to be well enough in three or four days to brew this? What of the other ingredients?" Lucius was growing agitated; it was a bizarre departure from the cool demeanor I had seen since arriving at the Manor.

"He will weaken. How much I can't say. Severus and I have discussed this. Either another Potions master will be needed; alternatively, Severus can supervise the work of another brewer."

"How advanced of a skill level do you need?" Draco inquired from the back of the room.

"I will need a competent brewer with finesse and skill, but the techniques are not Master level. N.E.W.T. level through Apprentice level will be sufficient."

Severus, Narcissa and I all eyed the boy with curiosity. Lucius did not seem to understand the implication.

"Sir, if you think I could handle the task, I would be honored to work with you on this project."

Narcissa visibly softened. Severus looked to Lucius. "Do you consent to this?"

"Do I consent to my son helping to save your life? Honestly, Severus, you call your students obtuse? Of course I consent."

"Lucius, I did not know if you would find brewing beneath Draco."

"The boy can do whatever he chooses. And be successful at it as well, I'm sure. He is of age now. It is about time he determines his path."

"Father, I have been meaning to speak to you about that. Might we discuss options later this evening?"

"Certainly, Draco, I will be in the west parlor after dinner, as always." Draco beamed. A gentle smile graced Narcissa's lips. Even Severus's face brightened a fraction.

"Draco," I began cautiously. "It would be extremely helpful if you could also assist with brewing some of the simple potions I will need for the patients. I'm sure St. Mungo's brewers would appreciate not having to supply all of the potions for the patients here.

"I will do my best to help, Healer Prewett."

"I can provide him coaching, assuming I'm allowed out of this room."

"Severus, I see no need for you to be bedridden at this point. You need to take it easy, but if you wish to move about the house, that should be fine. Pay attention to your energy level, and rest if you need to."

"Severus, please join us in the dining room this evening. I'll speak to the elves." She exited quickly but gracefully, not even giving him a chance to consider a refusal.

Lucius chuckled quietly. "And there you have it, Severus. As you know, it is not wise to defy Lady Malfoy on social matters." Then he turned to me. "Healer Prewett, it would please me if you would join us as well." I nodded, stunned.

"Thank you. I shall go and owl Minerva." I picked up the short note I had written to her as we had talked. "Severus, Orby will come if you call him. Please give him the ingredient list, and he'll see to it. If there's anything too rare, I can obtain it from St. Mungo's apothecary."

"Draco," Lucius said pointedly, "please show Healer Prewett to the owlery. " He nodded. As soon as we closed the door, Draco suddenly seemed very nervous.

"Draco, is something the matter?"

"No. Not really. Actually, not at all, but I'm just surprised. I've always wanted to pursue Healing or Potions. I never thought Father would approve."

"Ah, so you are excited and nervous about brewing with Severus?"

"Actually, I'm more nervous about discussing it with Father. Once Professor Snape is well, I would like to approach him about an apprenticeship. It's just curious that Father was so agreeable."

"Draco, did it ever occur to you that your father might be tired from spending his whole life trying to meet the expectations of others? Perhaps he wants to avoid pushing you in a direction you don't want to go in."

"We are not talking about career choices anymore, are we?"

"Well, for you, yes, we are. But for your father, I wonder if his involvement with Voldemort and the Death Eaters was truly his choice. Perhaps he's learned from the mistakes of years of narrow-minded parents."

"Are you speaking from experience, Healer Prewett?"

"Oh heavens, no, that is definitely not my experience. My parents were from two different continents, heck, two different worlds. Mother encouraged me to explore both worlds equally. I think it's safe to say that my family was always on me about cutting my own path and keeping options open."

Draco laughed. It was the first time since I'd arrived that he looked his age. "Well, it seems they were successful, Healer Prewett."

"Please, call me Elizabeth in private. I really don't like being defined by my profession."

"Speaking of calling you by your first name," Draco smirked, "What was that all about?"

"I don't know what you are talking about. I'm very informal. I prefer to be thought of as a person."

"Perhaps you are informal. But did it occur to you how difficult it might be for Professor Snape to view you as a person? If he sees you as anything but a Healer, he has to admit you are a woman, and frankly, the fact that you are the virtual image incarnate of his long lost love adds to the intrigue."

"What?"

"Surely you've heard the story. Severus and Potter's mother were childhood friends. She was Muggle-born, and he was her first contact with the Wizarding world. They were sorted into different houses at Hogwarts, and they must have drifted apart, but he always loved her. She married James Potter, had Harry, and about a year later, Voldemort murdered her and her husband. Severus blamed himself. He gave Voldemort information about a prophecy, not understanding the subject. Voldemort began hunting the Potters, and Severus went to Dumbledore, who hid them. But Voldemort found them anyway and killed the two adults. When he tried to kill Harry, something happened and Voldemort's body and power were destroyed. He disappeared for 13 years."

"I...I've heard bits of the story, but I don't see how it has anything to do with me."

"He has allowed you more familiarity than I've ever seen him grant anyone. All in a matter of a few days, I might add."

"Well, we did meet under extreme conditions. That can affect things."

"And you saved his life. And, you are a beautiful woman who happens to share many features in common with Lily Potter, the only woman that he's ever shown any interest in."

"What are you trying to say to me, Draco?"

"I don't know. Perhaps I thought you should be warned. He's not a pleasant man, but he is a good man. Make sure you don't trifle with his emotions."

"Draco. I may have a lot of faults, but I am certainly not the type to toy with a man's emotions. I wouldn't even know how, frankly."

"And yet, with Professor Snape, you may do so unintentionally. Just be careful for both your sakes. And watch out for Father as well. He's up to something. Inviting you to dinner without consulting Mother is highly irregular, especially given your family. Please don't take offense, but the Prewetts have never socialized with the Malfoys."

"I'll take that under consideration, Draco, but I think you are imagining things. I think your father is likely thinking of your future when he invited me to dinner. Odds are good he is trying to make sure I make a good little character witness if you and your family stand trial."

"We shall see. Here is the owlery. The eagle owl over there is one of our most friendly, and she has been to Hogwarts many times over the years."

And with that, he turned sharply and walked out quickly. I stood there for a moment, still stunned by Draco's theories. I pulled out the note to Minerva and held out my arm. Sure enough, the owl Draco had mentioned flew over and landed in front of me. I rolled up the note, attached it to her leg, and told her to take the note to Minerva at Hogwarts.

*******************

After taking lunch in my cottage, I received a return owl from Minerva. She had checked, and the vial was in the safe and unharmed. Around that time, Severus summoned Orby to collect his list of ingredients for the potion along with an ingredients list for several routine healing potions. I smiled at the gesture. Severus had correctly surmised that while I was a competent Healer, I was no Potions master, and compiling those lists would have been a fair bit of work for me.

With a quick pat of thanks to Orby's head, I sent him on his way to collect what was needed. The other patients were due to be transferred the following morning, so hopefully Draco could get started the following morning.

I was quite surprised when another owl tapped on my window a bit later. It was from Lucius Malfoy.

Healer Prewett,

Dinner will be served at 7:00. We are both pleased that you will be joining us. It will be just the five of us; the Aurors take their dinner in the sunroom. I would like to meet with you for thirty minutes prior to dinner in my study, if you would. I have a feeling I know what Draco would like to speak to me about after dinner, and I would like your assistance on that matter.

I paused. This didn't bode well. Was Lucius Malfoy going to try to get me to dissuade his son from pursuing medicine? I did not want to be in the middle of a family squabble, especially not in this family. No matter, I was strong enough to say no to Lord Malfoy. He may have an intimidating presence, but he was essentially a prisoner in his own home, and I was not. I continued reading.

Please know that I intend to support Draco in finding the right vocation for his skills and desires, but I wish to make sure his expectations are realistic.

Lord Malfoy

P.S. Lady Malfoy wishes me to remind you that we dress for dinner at the Manor.

I chuckled. What a graceful way to remind their 'informal' guest to be appropriate. What was amazing about the whole thing was how little they knew of me and yet how much they thought they knew. Father's family was solid and respectable, not Wizarding royalty like the Malfoys, but the Prewetts certainly had reasonable social standing. Mom's family, in the States, on the other hand, was pure Boston society. And Mom, despite her wild streak, was actually the picture of decorum when she felt it necessary. I might not have been raised a Malfoy, but the fact that they thought I needed coaching to behave as a lady was laughable.

Though truthfully, I wasn't sure why the insinuation that I would need coaching bothered me so. Regardless, I would not disappoint.

I was inexperienced with Wizarding fashion, particularly in Europe. I could transfigure something I already owned, but into what, I did not know. I walked over to the Floo and called the only person I could think of to help. My nephew's wife, Fleur, was the most elegant of my Wizarding family.

"Who is it?" Fleur's voice was soft and welcoming. Her accent had faded a bit over the years.

"It is your Aunt Elizabeth. If you have a moment, I could use some help."

"Come through, please."

"Thank you, Fleur." I stepped through the Floo and dusted myself off.

"How can I help you?"

"Well," I began, suddenly feeling silly. Here I was, a professional woman and an accomplished witch, and I was fretting about what to wear to a dinner party. "I have a dinner to attend, and I'm afraid being shut up in Muriel's home for the past several months has cut me off from current fashion trends."

Fleur wisely decided that was enough information for her. She knew where I was staying, and I knew that most of the family did not approve, even if they were quiet about it. "Do you have something to transfigure?"

"Yes." I held up a set of simple robes that were a bit more formal than my daily robes.

"You are blessed with a pleasing figure. Are you looking to show off a bit?" I blushed. Why in the world was I blushing?

"No, Fleur. Conservative and yet fashionable are the traits I would like. I feel the need to prove I know how to present myself as a lady."

Fleur snickered. "Are you sure there is no other reason? Perhaps there is a handsome Auror staying in the home that you would like to impress?" Ah, so that's what the family suspected. Well, that was benign enough.

"No, the Aurors will not be attending dinner with us. If you must know, all three Malfoys have made indirect insults on my family. I doubt they even realize it, but I'd like it to stop."

"Well, let's try this. Stand up please." She circled me appraisingly.

"With your hair and eyes, yes, blue, I think. And if you want conservative, we shall keep the neckline high. But you must at least show off your legs a bit." She pointed her wand at the dress. It swirled with magic, and the fabric turned from the somber gray, to a rich, electric blue that was both vibrant and dignified at the same time.

"Well, try it on." Fleur tapped her foot impatiently and motioned to the other room. I snickered but did as I was told. I stepped out wearing a luxurious, simple robe that was form fitting but not tight. As promised, the neckline in the front was modest, but it dipped in the back. The skirt was a bit short for my taste, but other than that, Fleur had done a brilliant job.

"It's lovely, Fleur, but the skirt is a bit short."

She huffed and flicked her wand. She mumbled something under her breath about 'old before her time'. The skirt was now a conservative knee dusting length. "Well then, let me try this instead. Take off your shoes."

"Why?" I questioned.

She clucked at me to follow her instruction. I watched as my conservative flats turned into a pair of rather high heels, the exact fabric of the dress. They were quite fetching and just a little daring.

"If you insist on being so conservative with the dress, we will add glamour with the shoes." I smiled. It seemed a reasonable compromise.

"Now, put your regular clothes back on. You don't want to get them dirty in the Floo."

"Thank you, Fleur."

"You are welcome. Oh, and you must let me know what Auror Robards thinks." I started to protest, but decided that wasn't wise. Because I was starting to realize that while it certainly wasn't Robards I was looking to impress, Fleur wasn't that far off the mark.

***************

A few hours later I was standing in front of my mirror, dressed in the lovely robes Fleur had created, trying to decide what to do with my hair. It had always been my crowning feature, but now it made me uncomfortable with the constant comparisons it seemed to elicit in people. It seemed just in the past week, I'd heard it all. The family associations were to be expected, but Lily Potter was something else entirely. It was eerie to have so many people compare you to a woman who had passed away over fifteen years ago. Well, then I supposed I best not make the hair the focus, I thought, winding it into a chic twist behind my head. I knew my neck was one of my more elegant features, so I might as well highlight it. I transfigured a pair of earrings into a pair of drop earrings and matching necklace. The jewels complemented my eyes and skin. I applied some light make-up, which completed the look nicely.

I felt a bit braver. As I walked toward the Floo, I shortened the skirt for good measure. It wasn't quite as short as Fleur had made it originally, or at least that's what I told myself. Then, remembering what Fleur had said about the Floo and dirtying the dress, I thought differently and called Orby.

"Yes, Miss, Elizabeth .... Oh, Miss Elizabeth looks so beautiful. Miss Elizabeth is very elegant. Grumpy professor won't know what hit him."

I eyed Orby, shocked. "Orby is sorry, Orby said too much." Orby placed his hands on the wall and started to strike his head on the wall.

"Orby, please stop! What are you doing?"

"Orby is punishing himself. Orby has displeased Miss Elizabeth."

"Orby, please don't do that, ever. Do you understand? I am not displeased. If I am, I will tell you. I am simply surprised that everyone seems to think there is something going on between Severus and me. There is not."

"That is what grumpy professor told Lord Malfoy, but Lord Malfoy did not believe him. Lord Malfoy said he hadn't seen grumpy professor that comfortable with a woman since he'd known him. And Lord Malfoy said he knew he was right because grumpy professor had never spoken two words about a woman since Lily."

I sighed. There she was again; why would nobody let Lily Potter rest in peace? "Orby, everyone wants Severus to be happy. I think they are hoping he finds someone special. And I'm obviously the closest woman, and frankly, the only age appropriate one who knows he is even alive except Narcissa. It is wishful thinking on their part that he might be interested in me. There is no truth to it. Please do not share this information that you heard with anyone else. I do not want to start any rumors."

Orby nodded. "Orby will not start rumors." But then he turned his head to the side and smirked. Since when do house-elves smirk? "Do you wish Orby to Apparate you to the Manor, Miss Elizabeth?"

"Yes, please. I am meeting with Lord Malfoy before dinner." And with that, he took my hand and we apparated to the entrance hall.

Bobby appeared instantly and walked me down the hall to Lucius's study. Lucius appeared to be hard at work at his desk, and he did not look up as we entered.

Boppy cleared her throat and announced me. "Healer Prewett is here to speak with you." Lucius looked up, and the startled look on his face was priceless. He even dropped his quill. He looked me up and then down again, and then looked back up uncomfortably, as he knew I'd seen him appraising my legs. Well done, Fleur. Well done indeed.

"Mr. Malfoy, you wished to see me?"

He gritted his teeth, obviously trying to regain his composure. "Indeed." He motioned to the chair in front of his desk. "Do have a seat, please.

"As you know, my son plans to talk with me this evening about his chosen career path. I suspect he is going to wish to study Healing or perhaps advanced potions research for medicinal purposes. Now, there is no doubt in my mind that Draco is well suited to either of these fields. However, there is the small problem of his current incarceration. I would like you to consider training Draco for the duration of his incarceration. I would see him develop his skills, even if only informally, during this time.

"Further, Severus has agreed to do a formal Apprenticeship with him in Potions. They will continue to supply you the potions you need. I also understand that you may need some additional equipment for your work here. I can certainly make sure you have adequate resources.

"As for your salary, I am prepared to pay your Healer salary for the hospital, plus an additional stipend for your work as Draco's tutor and for the additional work on behalf of Severus. In addition, I have spoken to several hospitals, and you will be receiving four letters in the next week with offers of employment beginning once this is all over. They are as follows: Two are from purely Wizarding facilities, one is from a Muggle hospital, and one is a highly secretive, state of the art facility that specializes in a hybrid of Muggle/Wizarding techniques. Patients are selected by our two Ministries, based on the complexity of their cases and are a blend of Muggles and Wizards."

"You've done your homework, Lord Malfoy. I shall think on this and give you an answer in the next week. Right now, I think we will all have our hands full with the new patients tomorrow and with Severus' potion and subsequent treatment."

"That sounds satisfactory. I will have a copy of the contract sent to your cottage for review." He pointed to papers on his desk. "This is a standard magical contract. If anything within it is objectionable, you can write in the margins your desired edits, and they will appear on my copy once you close the contract. I can approve them or call a meeting to discuss if needed. It tends to speed up negotiations."

"That is quite clever, sir. Is there anything else?"

"Yes, there is. Now, you may not approve of this, Healer Prewett, but Draco is under a magical binding spell. It was placed upon him when the Dark Lord returned. I knew he would seek to recruit Draco, and I knew that I did not want my son drawn into service with the Dark Lord. I thought if he appeared average, but not exceptional in his abilities, he might escape the Dark Lord's notice. It was a theory that might have worked had it not been for the Dark Lord's anger at me for the failure at the Department of Mysteries the following spring. I had planned to lift the spell when he came of age, but my home was invaded, and my wand was taken at about that time." He looked out the window, crestfallen for just a moment, before snapping back into his superior persona.

"But that is neither here nor there now. I shall inform Draco of this when I meet with him this evening. We will lift the binding spell. I do not think there will be any negative consequences, but I would ask you to stay on the grounds this evening, in case your assistance is needed."

"Very well, I can do that. Is that all?"

"Almost." Lucius suddenly grew colder, more threatening. I forced myself to stand my ground. "Healer Prewett, you cannot have missed my reaction to your attire this evening."

I widened my eyes in mock innocence. "Is it not smart enough? I'm afraid it's been a while since I've attended a formal dinner."

"No, it will certainly do. You look quite elegant. No doubt Narcissa will be pleased at your fashion sense. I am thinking of our other guest. He has noticed you, my dear." The endearment dripped with disdain. "I do not know whether it is welcomed by you or not, but you will tread carefully." His aristocratic drawl became low, but ever more dangerous. "He has been abused by this world enough, and I will not have it under my roof. You will treat him with respect, and you will not toy with his emotions."

Now it was my turn to smirk. "You know, your son gave me the same speech. You two should really try playing good cop/bad cop. I definitely think Draco should be good cop though."

"What?"

"It's a Muggle interrogation tactic. One partner is nice and cordial, understanding and friendly even, while the other is intimidating and harsh. The idea is that the one being questioned will see the 'good cop' as a safe place to confide in. But you missed one detail. Bad cop needs to go first."

"I assure you, Healer Prewett, there is no attempt at manipulation here."

I laughed inelegantly. "I assure you, Lord Malfoy, I was not born yesterday." I stood, trying to assert myself with this man. I felt suddenly grateful for the heels. "I do not wish to be your adversary." Looking him dead in the eye, I continued, "But I will remind you, Lord Malfoy, that you are the prisoner here, and I am the one that is free to leave at any point in time. And I will also remind you; there may come a time when I am called to testify on the behalf of you, your wife, and possibly your son. I would hate to have to tell them I felt intimidated in your home. As much as I don't want you as an adversary, Lord Malfoy, I assure you, the opposite is also true."

"Touché, Healer Prewett. Perhaps I have underestimated you."

"As to your character dispersions, while it is not your business, I will state that I am not the type of woman to play with a man's emotions. I find those women quite despicable, and frankly, men don't respond to me in that way anyway."

"So now we find that you are in fact, a bit naïve. The fact that you abhor trifling females makes you all the more dangerous to the type of man that also dislikes that type of behavior. And the fact that you do not flaunt your femininity, well, at least normally," he sneered as he rose to his feet, looking down at my legs pointedly, "makes you far more deadly when you do."

Lucius and I remained that way for a moment, surveying one another, neither one prepare to blink. The tension was broken by the sound of a throat clearing in the doorway. I turned to see Draco, looking a bit sheepish, obviously concerned by what he had walked in and witnessed.

"Mother is waiting in the foyer, Father. Dinner is ready to be served." Lucius thanked his son. He gave me a curt nod and left the room. Draco offered his arm to me.

"Well, Elizabeth, you certainly clean up nicely. Mother will certainly approve. And undoubtedly so will Severus."

"Truthfully, Draco, this is for your mother's benefit. I get the feeling that your whole family expected me to show up to dinner in ripped jeans and a concert tee-shirt." Draco looked confused.

"All I'm saying Draco, is that it is possible for a non-Malfoy to know how to behave with decorum. Your family does not hold a monopoly on charm and sophistication."

"Well, you were raised in a completely different culture."

"Yes, I was, Draco. And my mother's family is every bit as 'ancient and noble' as many of the old Wizarding families. And while our customs are in many ways different, there are similarities. The formality is all quite familiar, and this is all territory I'm perfectly capable of navigating. Just because my mother couldn't perform magic does not mean she lacked good manners or that she failed to teach them to me."

Draco looked thoroughly chastised. "I didn't mean anything personal."

"Draco, I'm not trying to be harsh. This life is all you've known. Just think about what I've said as you make your way in the world. In a lot of ways, you've seen way more than you should at your young age. But in others, you've been pretty sheltered, brainwashed even. Try to find the value in the perspectives of others, even when you disagree."

"That's profound advice. Someone should have told Father that when he was my age."

I snickered. "Well, this turned into a pretty heavy conversation for a stroll through the house. You're a good kid, Draco. You've got a lot to learn, but you've got a lot to offer."

"Thank you. Well, here we are."

We stood in the doorway of the elaborate dining room. The table had been re-sized to fit our party comfortably without feeling overwhelming, but the rest of the setup was every bit as elegant as a state dinner. Narcissa and Lucius were talking with Severus by the table. Severus had his back to us, but Lucius made eye contact.

"Ah, there you are. Wonderful."

Narcissa looked on with piqued curiosity. "Why, Healer Prewett, you look positively charming. Wherever did you get your lovely robes?"

"Fleur Delacour Weasley is my niece. She has an excellent eye and assisted me in updating one of my old robes."

"Is that the young girl from Beaubaxton's from the Triwizard Tournament? I did not realize that she was a relation of yours, Healer Prewett."

"Please, you must call me Elizabeth. Fleur is married to Molly's oldest son, Bill."

"How lovely, and please, call me Narcissa. I can't have you call me Lady Malfoy at my dinner table. Well, I must say, she is quite talented, though she has a lovely subject. Don't you think so, Severus?"

Severus had not spoken since he turned around. In fact, other than when we first entered, he hadn't looked at me at all. I suddenly realized he was trying to look anywhere other than at me.

"Very nice," he said quickly, "but what do I know of fashion?"

Lucius laughed a deep, hearty laugh that I had not heard from the man yet. "No, my friend, your fashion sense can be described in one word. Expedient. Your wardrobe wastes no time, for you wear the exact same style robe for all occasions."

"Indeed." Severus did not seem amused at all by Lucius' joke at his expense. Luckily, just then a house-elf appeared with the first course. It looked and smelled fantastic. All attention was turned from fashion to the wonderful dinner in front of us.

A few minutes later Lucius stated, "I received an interesting owl today. Apparently, Harry Potter would like to visit. He would like to formally thank you, Narcissa, for your assistance during the battle. He would like to speak with you as well, Severus. Kingsley apparently had to hold him back from Apparating here days ago when he was told of your survival."

"Potter?" Draco sounded incredulous.

"Oh, what joy," Severus groaned. "As if it isn't bad enough that he seems to have shared my life's history with the entire Wizarding world, now he wants to discuss it."

"Now, now," Lucius tried to soothe his guest. "Let us not forget that there may still be trials. Regardless of anyone's personal history with Mr. Potter, he could be an important ally."

"Very true," Narcissa agreed. "How do you plan to answer him, Lucius?"

"I intend to invite him to the Manor for the day after tomorrow. With the patients arriving tomorrow, I think we'll all be quite busy."

I looked down into my plate to hide my smirk. Lucius was quite a skilled strategist. I seriously doubted any of his family would have much trouble at their trials. He knew exactly how to court public opinion.

"What about the trials, Lucius? Have you heard anything?"

"No, I haven't heard anything yet. I have secured a barrister that will represent all four of us, if needed. Hopefully, it will not be needed, but we shall see."

"I take it that most of Britain still believes I am dead." Severus looked towards Lucius.

"Yes, Severus, Kingsley said he would keep your secret to allow your recovery to continue uninterrupted for a while longer."

"Good. Draco, I now have the ingredients needed for the antivenin and the other basic potions for the patients. I would like to start tomorrow."

"Very well, sir. That will work. Elizabeth, what time are the patients arriving? Would you like some assistance getting them settled?"

"They are arriving after lunch. Severus should probably rest in the afternoon, so if it is agreeable to both of you, you can work with Severus in the morning and assist me with the patients in the afternoon. There are some basic diagnostic charms that I can teach you that are quite useful." Both Severus and Draco nodded.

The rest of dinner continued in companionable conversation. Robards had requested an audience with each of us to take a formal statement, and Kingsley was planning to come by in a few days as well.

"I plan to spend Sunday at the Burrow. I have spoken to St. Mungo's, there will be a Mediwitch here to observe the patients."

"Of course, Elizabeth," Lucius smiled. "And of course, your family is welcome to visit you at the cottage if you so choose. The wards at the cottage are separate from the main house. They are controlled by the current guest. You do not need to seek permission for guests to visit you there."

"That is very kind, Lucius. Thank you."

Upon finishing dinner, Severus excused himself. "It has been a pleasant evening. I am feeling a bit fatigued; I think I shall retire." I looked up, concerned.

"Severus, are you alright? Please allow me to check your levels and see if you need any additional potion."

"That will not be necessary," he snapped. Then, less harshly, "I thank for your concern, but I am simply tired. A good night's rest will do me good. I am sure you will be around in the morning to poke and prod at my person. That will be sufficient."

"Very well, Severus, take care." I felt my face warm slightly, and I looked down to avoid his gaze.

"Lucius, Narcissa, I will see you at breakfast. Draco, we will begin work after breakfast. Good night all." He exited quietly.

Narcissa looked towards me and smiled. "Elizabeth, please join me and let us sit and talk in the parlor. It has been too long since I have had some female company apart from my departed sister, and she was ... "

"Insane." Draco deadpanned.

Narcissa shot her son a disapproving look. "She was damaged from years in Azkaban." Draco winked at me. It wasn't necessary. I knew of Bellatrix Lestrange. She was damaged long before Azkaban. But, Narcissa seemed as sane as anyone, and she had, in the end, helped Harry defeat Voldemort. And she had been nothing but polite to me.

"Certainly," I smiled. "I must admit I've been limited on company as well. My Aunt Muriel is less than approving of me." I grinned. "An unmarried American witch in her thirties is not her idea of an ideal houseguest."

"Goodnight, Elizabeth. Narcissa, darling, I will be up as soon as Draco and I finish our discussion." Lucius nodded as he left the room.

"Mother, Elizabeth, I bid you good night." Draco looked apprehensive as he left the room. I tried to shoot him a comforting smile. It was strange; I'd never had a little brother myself, but Draco was, in so many ways, like a little lost puppy. I wanted to see him succeed.

Narcissa led me across the house to her parlor. It was a beautiful room, and she motioned for me to have a seat.

"Now, Elizabeth, we both know that Draco and Lucius are discussing Draco's career. Tell me, what do you think of all this?"

I blinked in surprise. To say I was shocked at Narcissa's bluntness was an understatement.

"I'm a Slytherin, dear," she said, smiling a bit too sweetly. "And you, I can tell, are savvy enough to see through any veiled effort I make to get information from you. So, really, it seems the best approach is just to be direct."

I laughed. "There is so much emphasis on Hogwarts houses here. It is truly interesting."

"You would have been destined for Gryffindor, but you lack the brashness. I think you would have been sorted into Ravenclaw, given your intelligence and ability to learn multiple disciplines."

"Not Slytherin, then?"

"It would be unwise to call anyone affiliated with the Weasley family a Slytherin. You would never trust me again." She smiled, pleased with herself.

"Anyway," I said, shaking my head. "Draco is a fine young man. You should be very proud. He will succeed at whatever he puts his mind to accomplishing.

Narcissa smiled and nodded. "He seems excited about this work with Severus and with you. I do hope you will accept our employment offer to train him."

"Ah, good cop," I smiled.

"Pardon?"

"Sorry, never mind. Lucius's offer is quite fair. If it is the path that Draco is interested in, I will be happy to help. I should probably speak to Kingsley about it. We wouldn't want to appear to be hiding anything from the Ministry, regarding either my workload or Draco's training."

"That sounds reasonable. May I ask another question?"

"Of course, though I may decline to answer." She smiled at that.

"How long do you plan to stay in England?"

"Well, the original plan was a year, which is about three months from now. But now, with the war ending, and things being in such upheaval, I do not know. If I take on Draco as a student, I intend to stay long enough to give him a meaningful practical background. Lucius spoke of some job offers for when this was over, and I'll be honest, they sound intriguing. Truthfully, my mother and grandparents are in Boston, but international travel is so simple in this world, I don't see that being a major deterrent to a move."

"What about other acquaintances in the U. S.?"

"What happened to that directness, Narcissa?"

She laughed, her eyes alight with amusement. "Oh, how droll. It is quite fun to have another woman to chat with! And you, my dear, are delightful. Well, then, tell me, do you have someone special in Boston?"

"There is nobody serious. With my hectic career, I'm afraid I've neglected my social life."

"A familiar story," she said with sympathy, "though, it is less common with witches, I think, than Muggle women. Our world is a bit more old-fashioned in that regard."

"It is in Britain from what I can see. I'm not sure I would make that argument in the U. S."

"Are marriage and children something you desire, when the time is right?"

"Most likely, though I cannot say for sure. I suppose it will depend on when I find the right partner." Narcissa raised an eyebrow at my use of the word partner. My, this woman was easy to ruffle.

"And what kind of partner are you looking for?"

"Someone who is intelligent would be ideal, and someone strong enough to handle my career is a must. Though truthfully, I will eventually want to slow down if we have children. Things have been hectic for a long while now."

"Well, I'm sure you'll find someone wonderful. You have many traits that make you desirable as a spouse. Were it not for the age difference, I might encourage Draco to court you."

I breathed in sharply, and air went down the wrong pipe. I started coughing madly. Narcissa calmly snapped her fingers and called for a house-elf to bring water. I thanked Boppy between coughs, and I managed to calm myself.

"Narcissa, I assure you, that while Draco is a fine boy, if and when I settle down, it will not be with a man so much my junior. No, whatever man I pursue will need to have experienced life on his own." Suddenly, I realized she was laughing.

"Oh, Elizabeth, do forgive me. That was unkind. But you were playing so close to the vest, I had to say something to get a reaction."

I smirked back at her. "Slytherin!"

"Now you understand what it means. So, it is wizards you prefer. Are there any in particular?"

"Well, Narcissa, I hardly know anyone here that I am not related to, at least by marriage."

"You know a few," she paused meaningfully.

"Et, tu?"

She smiled. "He's a good man, Elizabeth. He deserves to be happy."

I looked around and lowered my voice to hiss, "But I barely know Auror Robards!" Now it was Narcissa's turn to gasp in shock.

"Oh. Well, that is, I don't know him well either, but he seems a good man. Elizabeth! That isn't funny."

"Oh, I assure you, from where I sit, it's quite funny. You do realize that your son, your husband, and now you, have tried to warn me off of Severus Snape."

"Oh, I'm not warning you off of him. I think, honestly, that it would be a splendid match."

"Narcissa, please, from what I've heard, the man's life hasn't been his own for over twenty years. He needs to spend some time learning who he is before he considers how to proceed. In many ways, he's like a young man just starting out; this is the first time in his adult life he's been free to make his own choices."

"You seem to have a pretty strong insight for someone who cares nothing for him."

"Well played, Narcissa. I will not say I care nothing for him. He does intrigue me. And quit smirking. And STOP with planning our wedding. I barely know him."

"I think you may know him better than just about anyone alive, except perhaps Lucius."

"And that is quite sad, Narcissa, for I know next to nothing of him. Let him live his life. Don't try to marry him off to the closest available witch, just because I have the same color hair as a woman from his past."

"My dear, that is not it at all. You are the rare breed whose spirit could match Severus'. There is strength in you and fierceness; but it's controlled, reserved even, most of the time. You could match each other word for word, probably hex for hex, and yet, there's a caring, a protectiveness in both of you. If it were directed towards a spouse, it would be something truly rare and special indeed. You're both half-bloods with histories in both worlds. You've both suffered great loss, and you've both made great sacrifices. You are intellectual equals at a minimum, and successful matches have been made on far less.

"However," she said, changing the subject abruptly, "it is late, and you have a big day tomorrow with the patients arriving. Get some sleep." She patted my shoulder as she stood. Then, she left the room silently.