Chapter 11
Chapter 11 of 27
phoenixVoldemort is back and the Order of the Phoenix is reforming. They need new members and Kingsley recruits one of his fellow Aurors - even though she is a Slytherin. Assigned to work with Remus Lupin, things get very tense. Set during 'Order of the Phoenix'.
A few minutes after he left, Wendy found herself standing in front of the door to Lucius' suite. For many long seconds, she paced in front of the door, trying to rationalize her behavior. I shouldn't be here. I think I know what he wants, but I'm not that person anymore. And I haven't talked to Remus about this. This is a decision he deserves to know about, to be a part of. But, Albus did want me to get close to people like Lucius. Earning his trust will be good for the Order. If I leave now, I'll never earn his trust and lose access to the others. I'll listen to his proposal. After all, I could be wrong. He's always liked pretty, young women and that's not me.
She steeled herself and raised her hand to knock on the door. When it swung open, she saw Lucius standing at the sidebar pouring drinks. He had removed his jacket and was wearing a silk brocade waistcoat over his crisp, white shirt.
"I prefer a more relaxed and private setting to discuss business, don't you?" He handed her a drink and took her cloak.
"What sort of business?" she asked as she sipped a very fine cognac. It was always the best with him.
"I thought we could renew our past arrangement," he said confidently as he sat on the opposite side of the couch from her.
She thought she was hearing things and almost choked on her drink. "Are you serious?"
"Quite. You see, my last mistress has decided that she wants a family. Of course, I had to let her go since it wouldn't do for her to bear my children." He swirled his drink in his glass before taking a sip. "I've yet to find a suitable replacement. It's incredibly tedious finding one who will be discreet and is pleasing, and young women today don't seem to understand what it means. Seeing you at the Ball brought back such wonderful memories." He gave her that melt-your-spine smile he was so good at.
"Aren't I a bit old for your mistress?" she asked cautiously. Surely, it would not be this easy. She had never imagined that Lucius would be so eager to renew their relationship. Of course, this would create a rather significant problem in her personal life.
"Nonsense." He slid closer to her. "Aside from that one scar marring your beauty, you still look quite young. Better than Narcissa, if I do say, and I spend a small fortune on her looks." He once again traced the scar on her cheek. As always, his voice was smooth and seductive. "Besides, you know me, how to please me and I know how to please you." He let his hand trail softly down her arm. "You were always my favorite and I was distraught after you shut me out. None of my lovers since have compared to you." He leaned close and kissed her gently.
"It's a very tempting offer, Lucius." Her pulse was starting to race. The pure sexuality he exuded was nearly overpowering. He was sitting entirely too close to her and she found herself falling prey to his flattery.
"Of course it is. It's completely discreet and passionate, just the way it used to be. I need a mistress and you need a lover." He let his hand gently run down her leg and back up her thigh.
"And how would you know that?" She was finding it very hard to concentrate with him this close. His scent was intoxicating. She took a rather large gulp of her drink, hoping to help calm her nerves.
He continued to caress her leg, letting his hand drift closer and closer to her belly. "I have my sources, and they indicate you have been alone for some time." He shifted closer to her and placed her glass on the table.
"Is that all that's in it for me?" Concentrate, you must concentrate. Don't let him befuddle your mind.
He looked shocked that she might be refusing him. "You mean I'm not enough? I wasn't aware that you had other needs." That had been the joy of having her as his mistress. She had never asked for material goods. The others had always been expensive, expecting baubles and fancy clothes.
She smirked back at him. "I don't. I just like to see you surprised." I need to get away. This is moving too fast.
He laced his fingers through her hair and pulled her head back. "I had almost forgotten about that. You always were very devious." He pulled her close and kissed her deeply. "You can't tell me you didn't miss that." She had not been shy about returning his kiss, so he knew it to be true.
She had to admit her heart was racing and it was extremely hard to think clearly with her nerve endings set afire. "I did, but my life is rather complicated right now. I don't know that I could devote the attention you need. It wouldn't be fair to you." She knew what he demanded of a mistress. She would not be at his beck and call. She needed to get away and think about what he was saying.
"We made it work in the past. I have no doubt we could make it work again. And if I were to get you that supervisory position, you would work much more conventional hours. Perhaps I could even arrange for a transfer out of Magical Law Enforcement?" He nibbled at her neck, clearly remembering exactly how to drive her wild.
She inhaled sharply as her body reacted to his touch. When her awareness returned, she was straddling his lap and could clearly feel his arousal. "This is all so sudden," she said weakly as she looked into eyes filled with desire.
"That's what makes it so wonderful, the spontaneity. When was the last time you were truly spontaneous?" he asked playfully.
She couldn't tell him the truth. "I don't know, I guess it's been a while."
He kissed her chest and started unbuttoning her top. "Then indulge yourself."
She forced herself to pull away and stand up. "I... need to think about it." What she needed to do was discuss this with Remus, but everything was happening so quickly; she still couldn't think clearly.
He was growing irritated. Rejection was not the sort of thing he took well. He stood as well and wrapped his arms around her possessively, pulling her tight so he could grind his hips against hers. "Is there really so much to think about? You joined me here, willingly. I'm growing tired of your games," he said impatiently.
And play her games is exactly what she would do in order to get the information she needed from him. He was so very strong and virile, nearly irresistible. Besides, this was what Albus had told her to do, right? Giving him her best playful smile, she replied, "Are you really?" She undid his tie, pulled it slowly around his neck, and tossed it over her shoulder. "I was under the impression you rather enjoyed my games?"
His smile returned as she began to undo his buttons. "As long as I know it's a game." He devoured her mouth, letting her know who was in charge, and was pleased when she nearly melted in his arms.
Before she knew what was happening, she was on the bed with Lucius delicately removing her clothes. She saw him grimace as he saw the scars the on her otherwise smooth skin.
He kissed the scars softly. "You really should take better care of yourself," he whispered. He trailed his kisses further down, until his tongue was exploring her soft folds. One thing he had learned over the years was the importance of pleasing his partner. He would make her remember what it was like to be his mistress.
As he drove her to frenzy, she bucked her hips and laced her fingers in his hair. Release was coming soon, but then Lucius pulled away. "Please," she begged.
"Please, what?" he asked smoothly as he slowly unbuttoned his waistcoat.
She got up on her knees and began frantically working on his buttons. "Take me," she pleaded. She had to have him; it felt as though she couldn't live without him. Her body was on fire and she was in pain, having been left on the verge of ecstasy.
He gently pushed her back onto the bed and slipped out of his trousers. "You want me?" He wasn't ashamed to have her feed his ego. He brushed his erection against her without penetrating her.
She writhed beneath him as he continued to tease her. "Yes," she replied desperately. As he finally plunged into her, she moaned in relief. She knew that Lucius liked her to be vocal.
Well aware of the power he had over her, he thrust slowly, holding her on the edge of release, relishing her moans of desire and pleas for him to take her.
"Lucius, please," she moaned. "I'm so close it hurts. Take me. I want you! I need you!" She was nearly crying and had her hands on his buttocks trying to encourage him to move faster and take her deeper.
"You need me?" he asked as he rotated his hips.
"Yes, yes," she panted in reply.
He thoroughly enjoyed the pained look on her face. He pulled nearly all the way out of her and thrust deeply to her core. "You want this?"
"Oh, gods, yes!" she moaned. She was so very close. A few more thrusts like that was all it would take.
He continued to tease her for several more minutes until his own release was imminent. He then did as she had asked. It didn't take long for both of them to climax. He was incredibly pleased when she screamed his name in ecstasy. "Is that what you wanted?" he whispered as he showered her with kisses.
Her mind still clouded in the aftermath of her orgasm, she replied, "Yes. That was wonderful."
"Of course it was," he replied confidently. "No one knows you like I do." He pulled away from her and began to dress. "You see? We can make this arrangement work. After all, if Edgar didn't stand in our way, why should your job at the Ministry? And I'm pleased that you missed it as much as I did. You will forgive me for having to leave, won't you? Sadly, I do have other obligations." He flashed his charming smile at her.
"I understand." At that moment, she didn't care. What she had experienced was utter bliss.
Wendy walked out of Lucius' suite trying to determine how she had let the situation get so out of hand. She had never intended to actually do anything with Lucius, only to see if he was receptive to her friendship. Well, he had been receptive, and for more than just friendship. Running her fingers through her hair, she tried to determine what to do about this situation. She knew that Remus would feel betrayed, and rightly so.
I'll talk to him about this, let him know what Lucius has offered me and how it could be exactly what the Order is looking for. With Umbridge at Hogwarts, Severus isn't as useful as he once was. I'll tell him that this would be nothing more than me using Lucius to get vital information. Yes, this will work quite nicely. He'll see the reason behind this. There's no reason for him to know that I have already made the arrangement with Lucius. He may not like it, but surely he will see the logic behind it.
Of course, I'm still not sure how it all happened. I know how charming he can be and I've been able to say no to him before. Did he drug me? Was it in the drink? No, it couldn't have been. I didn't have more than a sip. She was still perplexed at how quickly she had lost control of her faculties. Her Auror training should have provided her some protection, even against coercive drugs.
Feeling more confident that she could work her way out of this predicament, she Disapparated.
Remus was in the library, waiting for Wendy to come home, having finished his work for the Order. He was used to her coming home late, and she had more than enough books in her library to occupy his time. Over the music, he thought he heard the crack of Apparition. When he didn't see Wendy, he put his book down and headed out to the foyer. "Wendy?" He thought he heard a door close and made his way upstairs.
As he neared their bedroom, he saw the door was indeed closed, as was the bathroom door. It wasn't like her to not let him know she was home. He crossed the room to the bathroom door and was about to grab the knob when the door opened.
"Remus, I didn't know you were home," she said in a surprised tone. She had, of course, suspected he was home, which was why she had hurried upstairs. She was positive her clothes reeked of Lucius' cologne, and she'd rather not answer those questions right now.
"Are you all right?" he asked, his voice full of concern.
"Why do you ask?" She tried to sound as nonchalant as possible.
"You don't normally change when you come home," he observed.
"I know. It was a particularly messy day. How was your day?" She hoped that by deflecting his attention she could avoid any unpleasantness for a little while longer.
"I think I'm making some progress with Albert, but he's to be discharged tomorrow. They don't want a werewolf at St. Mungo's during the full moon if they can avoid it, and there's really no reason for them to keep him there. I was thinking that perhaps I would spend the full moon with him, that my presence would provide him with some comfort during his first transformation."
She wrapped her arms around him, not wanting to look into his eyes. "That sounds like a marvelous thing to do. Where will you go?"
"I have a cave, well isolated, that I have used in the past. But, since both of us have taken our potions, it shouldn't matter. I truly hate this time of the month. I hate leaving you." He returned her embrace. While standing this close to her, he smelled something different, but he wasn't sure what it was. Surely, it was just a residue of whatever had made the mess that had lead her to shower and change.
"I'm not fond of it either. It's all right, I suspect work is going to busy this week. So many people like to start the new year off the wrong way. George has already hinted that the hours are going to get longer. I guess there's a new series of raids they are planning, so I'll be busy in your absence." She knew she had to bring up her arrangement with Lucius, but there just was no good time to bring up that sort of thing. Especially since there was a chance that Lucius would come by her house; there was no reason for her to turn him away since she ostensibly lived alone. There had to be a way to make Remus understand this was purely a business arrangement, for the good of the Order. Since he was going away for the full moon, she had a few more days to figure out how best to explain it.
"Why don't we head down to dinner?" she asked.
"Sounds like an excellent idea."
They enjoyed a pleasant dinner, but Remus couldn't get over the feeling that she was hiding something from him. "Is something bothering you?" he asked.
"What? Oh, no, I'm just distracted by work. Sorry. I'm not trying to ruin dinner," she said apologetically.
He smiled at her. "You haven't ruined dinner; I was just wondering what, other than me, had your mind so occupied." He rubbed his leg against hers under the table.
"I would much rather be thinking of you." She reached over and took hold of his hand. I should tell him, but I can't send him away for the full moon distressed. Let me have one more night of happiness with him.
He still had the feeling she was hiding something, but it was possible that it was work related. He knew that she could not talk about much of what she did as an Auror. "I thought that perhaps you might like to retire upstairs early tonight? Nothing interesting arrived in the post today."
Knowing how he was the night before full moon, she thought this was exactly what she needed to keep her mind off her problems. "That sounds like a wonderful idea," she replied.
Wendy arrived at work and found a memo designating her as part of the raid teams. They were meeting at nine o'clock to hand out assignments with raids scheduled to start after lunch. This was definitely going to be a long day. She quickly sorted through the rest of the paperwork that had materialized since yesterday afternoon. There were several silly new policies, but that seemed to be the new hallmark of Fudge's reign. Clearly, the idiocy at Hogwarts was contagious. She was waiting for they day they started regulating the color of a person's socks. There was really nothing pressing that she had to do before the meeting.
She decided to walk around the cubicles and see what gossip she could pick up. She was walking by Kingsley's desk when he stopped her. "Oi, Wendy, I see you've been volunteered." He held up a memo.
"Yeah, thrilling, isn't it?" she replied sarcastically. "Though it's been a while since we've done this and I've gotten out of the last three or four so I shouldn't complain."
"Yeah, I've noticed that. How do you manage that?" he asked suspiciously.
She shrugged. "Good luck, I guess. It's about that time, ready?"
"Yeah," he replied reluctantly.
The room was noisy with the twenty or so Aurors all involved in conversations or demonstrating hexing techniques. George Stroud entered the room and just barely deflected a hex. "All right, settle down." He waited for order to resume. "Now then, you lot are the lucky few running this round of raids. I know it's been a while. We'll draw lots. All of you have your team assignments and I'll ask the senior member of each team to come up and draw."
"Who did you get?" Kingsley asked quietly.
"Caleb Thomas. This ought to be fun, I think it's his first raid," she whispered sarcastically.
"Could be worse," he whispered back, "I've got Tonks."
"I thought she had a lifetime ban from raids?" Wendy asked.
"So did I. I guess they forgot. I can only hope I don't get a house with a lot of breakables." The last time Tonks had been on a raid, he had been teamed with her and it had been quite the disaster. She had to be the clumsiest person anyone had met.
It was Wendy's turn to draw from the hat. She opened the slip of paper and thought fate must be conspiring against her. Malfoy was the name on her slip of paper. She sat back down and stared at it in shock. There went her plan for avoiding him until she could talk to Remus.
Kingsley took his seat and sighed. "Gilbreath. I can see those suits of armor going down now. You want to place a bet on how many?" When she didn't answer he leaned over and looked at her slip of paper. "Malfoy, huh? Good luck. He's an unpleasant bastard. I had him about two years ago. You went to school with him, didn't you?"
"Yeah, he was quite a few years ahead of me, though." She really wanted to downplay any association she had with Lucius.
"I don't envy you. You might want to prepare Caleb. Old Lucius might make him piss himself." He chuckled softly at the thought.
Wendy couldn't help but laugh at that mental image. "Well, I guess I ought to brief him. Good luck at the Gilbreath place. Keep Tonks out of the trophy room, though."
"Thomas, come on," she called out. Caleb Thomas had only just recently finished his training. He was eager, but still very inexperienced and prone to intimidation. She knew he was following her out of the room like a puppy. On her way out, she grabbed the floor plan for the Malfoy manor. "Okay, Caleb, I need you to familiarize yourself with the floor plan. Most of our searching will be in the first floor rooms and cellar. It's not likely that anything would be hidden in one of the guest rooms. There's too great a chance that a nosy guest would stumble upon something. You know how to search for hidden chambers?"
"Yes, Miss Westin," he replied nervously.
"Let's go over this again, at work we all go by first names, out in the field it's last names. Remember?" she lectured.
"Yes, Mi..., er, Wendy."
She had always hated working with rookies. They were too easily intimidated. "Excellent. I'm going for tea and we'll talk about a plan of attack when I get back." She also needed time to think. She was almost positive that Lucius had things in that house that he wasn't supposed to have. If they found them, it would ruin any chance she had of remaining in his good graces. Conversely, keeping him out of trouble, would earn his trust. The best thing she had going for her was Caleb's inexperience. If only she knew where the hidden chambers were. She would have to make her best guess and send Caleb to the places where there was not likely anything incriminating. That would probably be the library, study and cellar. Those were the obvious places to hide something, which meant that Lucius would not use them. He much preferred to hide something under a person's nose.
Once she returned to her desk, she started to brief Caleb on the plan. By the time the Aurors met again in the conference room at eleven-thirty, she thought he was as ready as he was going to get.
George took a quick head count. "Okay, are there any questions? Everyone has a warrant, right? All right then, report back to me when you're done."
"Good luck, Kingsley," Wendy said.
"You too," he called back.
"Let's go, Caleb," she ordered.
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Latest 25 Reviews for Werewolves and Serpents
30 Reviews | 9.0/10 Average
This was a brilliant story and so well written. I'm glad that Remus got Wendy and not Tonks.....she was the Wesley Crusher of the HP saga and Luna the Jar-Jar Binks in my humble opinion.Both bloody irritating. Very well done. Best wishes, Love Ali xxxx.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Thank you for your review. I'm glad you enjoyed this story. It really made me laugh. 
I do have to agree about Tonks. I mean she's supposedly adult, probably mid-20s, and in a very serious job, but she hams it up for the kids at the dinner table? And we're supposed to believe this is the type of woman Remus ends up with? Luna, I don't think she was quite Jar-Jar annoying, but it was close.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Thank you for your review. I'm glad you enjoyed this story. It really made me laugh. I do have to agree about Tonks. I mean she's supposedly adult, probably mid-20s, and in a very serious job, but she hams it up for the kids at the dinner table? And we're supposed to believe this is the type of woman Remus ends up with? Luna, I don't think she was quite Jar-Jar annoying, but it was close.
Hmmm... so Lulu has done something to her/spelled her in some way to not be able to resist his touch? And it seems she gets more and more unnerved & unravelled each time, unfotunately, this evening leading to her brash decision to see her daughter before she is sent off to Durmstrang? Could Lulu & Tibor be in cahoots with each other to cause Wendy to suffer more--I wouldn't put it past her brother to seek even more cruel tactics against her since he thrives on the being a brute... hmm as well as Lucius... And now, the dilemma of the blood magic to be used on Remus or be his victim or... great chapter!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Lucius is definitely up to no good. He doesn't like to lose and he wants Wendy firmly under his thumb and at his beck and call. Whatever he's up to can't be good. And poor Remus, bless his heart, offering up his freedom or his life and poor Wendy faced with that awful dilemma. This was a harder chapter to write because I so can see Remus being the martyr for her.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Lucius is definitely up to no good. He doesn't like to lose and he wants Wendy firmly under his thumb and at his beck and call. Whatever he's up to can't be good. And poor Remus, bless his heart, offering up his freedom or his life and poor Wendy faced with that awful dilemma. This was a harder chapter to write because I so can see Remus being the martyr for her.
Enjoyed them getting back together--in every way!;-) Know that Malfoy's absence from prowling around is due to some clandestine mischief... Love the contrast of Wendy so open to Remus & love, but as this is set during a very turbulent time, I know I shouldn't let my guard down--but like Remus, I'm enjoying them being together as much and as long as they can--great chapter!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Malfoy cause mischief? Say it isn't so? 
LOL It is so wonderful seeing them have some happiness where everything is out in the open. Of course it's not ideal, but when is anything ideal?
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Malfoy cause mischief? Say it isn't so? LOL It is so wonderful seeing them have some happiness where everything is out in the open. Of course it's not ideal, but when is anything ideal?
Oooh, love the extra help from Clarice, and then from Severus, and of course, Remus by her side all the way--even the elf is calling him 'master':-) recognising him being in *charge* Of course Lucius would slink away, but have a feeling he'll be back, although I'm curious f how suspicious he is of Wendy's coincidental 'illness' and if he will truly punish her in an unforseen manner,whether of his own will or on behalf of Bella or Voldy... Great chapter!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
If you are going to be a little unorthodox, always good to have a healer who is a good friend and not one to ask questions or make reports. And I just loved Severus sparring with Remus. Even in a time of need, he just can't resist a little torment. Remus is finally realizing what he has now that he has almost lost it. I should have the next two chapters up shortly and then I've been doing 2 or 3 every 3-4 days or so.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
If you are going to be a little unorthodox, always good to have a healer who is a good friend and not one to ask questions or make reports. And I just loved Severus sparring with Remus. Even in a time of need, he just can't resist a little torment. Remus is finally realizing what he has now that he has almost lost it. I should have the next two chapters up shortly and then I've been doing 2 or 3 every 3-4 days or so.
Love Remus coming gently back to her and taking care of her in her time of need... I was wondering when Lucius would appear---must rush to see what happens! Great chapter, as always!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Remus is her knight in shining armor. Sometimes you really do need a Gryffindor around, don't you? And nothing Lucius to further complicate things, is there?
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Remus is her knight in shining armor. Sometimes you really do need a Gryffindor around, don't you? And nothing Lucius to further complicate things, is there?
Great dynamic chapter! It's both lovely and painful seeing Wendy reach out to him, and Remus standing his ground--for both of them, this is new territory and growing pains in different ways... love slippery Lucius and his wiley ways, although it has now led to our heroine being in true danger sooner than later; i also wished she hadn't been so impulsive and informed others of the Order before Apparating off like, following Lulu's trail--but I understand she felt she needed to strike while the iron's hot... and Remus? Where is he? Reading on!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Poor Remus gave his heart away and got so crushed. It was good to see him stand his ground. It would have been so easy to just go back, but he really needed to make her see what her actions were doing to him. It is so heartwrenching to see her sincerely reach out to him to be rebuked because he's not sure. But of course then he got sucked in to her impulsive side because he's still protective of her. So glad you are enjoying everything. It almost hurts to watch these two troubled souls try to understand each other.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Poor Remus gave his heart away and got so crushed. It was good to see him stand his ground. It would have been so easy to just go back, but he really needed to make her see what her actions were doing to him. It is so heartwrenching to see her sincerely reach out to him to be rebuked because he's not sure. But of course then he got sucked in to her impulsive side because he's still protective of her. So glad you are enjoying everything. It almost hurts to watch these two troubled souls try to understand each other.
Oooh, great scene... she's truly back up in a corner and Remus is unable at this time to forgive or have her in his life under her conditions--the battle of the wills, and Lucius has tilted it in his favour--at what cost to Wendy's equilibrium... Fantastic chapter! Both Severus and Sirius were meanie meanies, not that Remus or Wendy could cares--each one's pain seems to have numbed them to othersxxx
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
That was a rough ride, wasn't it? Poor Wendy has finally realized what it means to love and be loved and she buggered it all up. I actually thought Sirius was being pretty decent. Of course Severus can't resist rubbing salt in a wound when it's Sirius or Remus and he's just as emotionally clueless as Sirius at times, such as this when he thought she had only formed an elaborate plot to crush Remus. Nothing like those old school grudges that won't die.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
That was a rough ride, wasn't it? Poor Wendy has finally realized what it means to love and be loved and she buggered it all up. I actually thought Sirius was being pretty decent. Of course Severus can't resist rubbing salt in a wound when it's Sirius or Remus and he's just as emotionally clueless as Sirius at times, such as this when he thought she had only formed an elaborate plot to crush Remus. Nothing like those old school grudges that won't die.
Oooh, Wendy's playing with fire, Lucius is playing with fire, and I have a feeling that Remus is going to explode or cause someone else to--and all too close for comfort; both Lucius and Remus are both possessive int heir own unique ways and for different reasons but Wendy being the common object of desire/factor is *dynamite* for all *fanning self* Great chapter! *almost* afraid to read on in fear of who is going to damage who the worst, and in what ways, but the Slytherin in me can't wait--lol!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
There is lots and lots of fire being played with, isn't there? Poor, poor Remus. She has brought out the Alpha male in him. And poor Wendy definitely seems to be over her head, doesn't she?
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
There is lots and lots of fire being played with, isn't there? Poor, poor Remus. She has brought out the Alpha male in him. And poor Wendy definitely seems to be over her head, doesn't she?
Brilliant chapter! Well, an Aurors got to do what an Aurors got to do--hehe! Enjoying Wendy's dilemma's and predicament of what she now has to juggle: Lucius now, Lucius' influence and pov of them from the past and the future role she'll have to play for/with him... And poor Remus... my chest is tight with tension for his heartbreak already! I feel he'll be unable to separate ration from emotion when it comes to Wendy, if he can't bear another wizard looking at her... he'll not be able to handle her sexual relations with Lulu in for 'the greater good'part of her mission... *sighing* poor sweetie... and maybe even Wendy's hardcore professional shield might crack a wee bit... Fantastic plot-thickening chapter!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
This chapter was so difficult. Poor Wendy saw one thing in Dumbledore's order to renew old ties, but is it really what the old man meant? Remus definitely would have seen it differently, though if he had known that she had been Lucius' mistress at one time, I'm sure he would have put his foot down. Definitely hang on as this emotional roller coaster gets going.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
This chapter was so difficult. Poor Wendy saw one thing in Dumbledore's order to renew old ties, but is it really what the old man meant? Remus definitely would have seen it differently, though if he had known that she had been Lucius' mistress at one time, I'm sure he would have put his foot down. Definitely hang on as this emotional roller coaster gets going.
Ooooh, my gut instinct tells me that her protection is not what he wants, well, not the only thing, knowing the opportunist that Lulu is -hehe! I hope her Obliviate Charms are up to parr to deter his intentions... Regardless of his toff facade, he is Voldy's top lieutenant and *wicked*--lol! Seriously, wonderful tension built with Wendy's infiltration back into the esoteric circles versus her wonderful private time with Remus... but I fear the division is going to create more harm both professionally and personally. Poor Remus, forced to be excluded more and more, yet more and more drawn together with personal needs--wonderful dynamics!ps Just want to use a Bellatrix curse on her brother --gah! What a piece of s****
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Lucius is always so much fun. It's a matter of which personality of his gets used. I normally have a soft spot for him and tend to cast him favorably, but in this case, well, evil!Lucius gets to come out and play. LOL And yes, Wendy's brother is in serious need of being cursed six ways from Sunday... Definitely poor Remus. They had a good thing going wiht their partnership and now Dumbledore threw this wrench in the works sending Wendy down a path she has to travel alone.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Lucius is always so much fun. It's a matter of which personality of his gets used. I normally have a soft spot for him and tend to cast him favorably, but in this case, well, evil!Lucius gets to come out and play. LOL And yes, Wendy's brother is in serious need of being cursed six ways from Sunday... Definitely poor Remus. They had a good thing going wiht their partnership and now Dumbledore threw this wrench in the works sending Wendy down a path she has to travel alone.
Yes, I meant to write form the last chapter that I love the platonic yet intimate relationship that Wendy has with Severus (and the irritating vile Umbridge misinterpreting them as well), and enjoyed this chapter with Remus getting all hot & bothered by seeing them together... Just hope it doesn't get too out of hand, especially arounf the full moon, he might be more impulsive than anyone wants to know, with his wolfish possessiveness being shown beyond his control. Remus is deeper and deeper in love with her, and I feel she may not quite know to what depths he's effected... but perhaps she also is beyond the point of no return? Great chapter!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Thanks for the comment about Severus and Wendy. I really could not resist putting that sort of inuendo in there - it was such a Slytherin thing to do given her reasoning. And really, it gave me a chance to use the great line 'I daresay the shock would kill them'. LOL Poor Remus is just living with that seed of doubt that Sirius keeps nurturing. And you are so correct about her not realizing the depth of Remus' love and what it means. Poor girl is a bit out of her element.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Thanks for the comment about Severus and Wendy. I really could not resist putting that sort of inuendo in there - it was such a Slytherin thing to do given her reasoning. And really, it gave me a chance to use the great line 'I daresay the shock would kill them'. LOL Poor Remus is just living with that seed of doubt that Sirius keeps nurturing. And you are so correct about her not realizing the depth of Remus' love and what it means. Poor girl is a bit out of her element.
Loved their love making, and yes, I love the jealousy that Sirius is feeling, enjoying him suffering a bit about what he is incapable of understandin (I know, I'm a meanie when it comes to him--hehe!) only it may lead to him truly meddling, irreparably if he can, in their relationship... So glad Wendy set Sirius straight on what he can expect if he dares to try to harm her (no, I wouldn't put it past him if he's given half the chance, his type: once a cruel bullyboy, always the inclination is there since he's never evolved beyond it, prison not helping... we'll see) Great chapter and intrigue, as always!xxx
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Sirius is such a wonderfully complex character. He's still emotionally about 20 which means you get those wonderfully petty grudges/jealousies and total lack of what being in love means. I have to admit I really enjoy him squirming and dealing with his hatred of the woman his best friend loves. And I do love writing a good Sirius/Wendy bicker because the view we always got of Sirius was through Harry's eyes, which only see the good, not understand the fact that his father and godfather were horrible bullies in school. I love Wendy being willing to stand up to him and offer to put him in his place. She's not so much a bully as just plain ruthless when someone crosses her. The whole mama bear thing, or wounded animal. The mama bear more explaining her intense hatred of Death Eaters to protect her daughter the best way possible, not trying to insinuate anything weird with her relationship with Remus. That comment kind of came out wrong, didn't it? LOL
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Sirius is such a wonderfully complex character. He's still emotionally about 20 which means you get those wonderfully petty grudges/jealousies and total lack of what being in love means. I have to admit I really enjoy him squirming and dealing with his hatred of the woman his best friend loves. And I do love writing a good Sirius/Wendy bicker because the view we always got of Sirius was through Harry's eyes, which only see the good, not understand the fact that his father and godfather were horrible bullies in school. I love Wendy being willing to stand up to him and offer to put him in his place. She's not so much a bully as just plain ruthless when someone crosses her. The whole mama bear thing, or wounded animal. The mama bear more explaining her intense hatred of Death Eaters to protect her daughter the best way possible, not trying to insinuate anything weird with her relationship with Remus. That comment kind of came out wrong, didn't it? LOL
Mmmm... enjoyed this very much, the step by step closeness that they're taking towards each other, and that Wendy is feeling freer to initiate what she would like in her life: Remus (yum!); I'm enjoying her compassion for him, as well as Remus understanding more of her feelings & emotions, background, regarding her marriage and obligations throughout her life. Had she hinted that she loves him? I'll also side with Remus that she did! Hmmn, but love can be complicated--look forward to seeing how they and others deal with it! Great chapter!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
I'm glad you liked this chapter. Nice low action, but a lot of learning by both of them about each other. I just loved Remus' mindset at the end. I just love the nice quiet moments and this was precisely that. Poor star-crossed lovers dealing with these emotions in the middle of a coming storm.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
I'm glad you liked this chapter. Nice low action, but a lot of learning by both of them about each other. I just loved Remus' mindset at the end. I just love the nice quiet moments and this was precisely that. Poor star-crossed lovers dealing with these emotions in the middle of a coming storm.
What a action packed, dynamic chapter--the profound scene revealing her daughter and the circumstances surrounding her loss of custody and the bitter trials she endured during and afterwards, on up unto the present point; love the very delicate balance of her warming up to and opening up to Remus and allowing him in. Hope Remus keeps strong against Sirius and his manipulation--great chapter!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
This was a very difficult moment for her to finally let him in, all the way in. This is one of those real turning points in both their relationship and her emotional growth. Let's see how that turns out. And yes, poor Remus will have to deal with a distrustful Sirius who still acts like she's the same person she was as a teenager. Hopefully Remus will realize his friend's emotional growth got stunted at about age 20 thanks to a stint in Azkaban.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
This was a very difficult moment for her to finally let him in, all the way in. This is one of those real turning points in both their relationship and her emotional growth. Let's see how that turns out. And yes, poor Remus will have to deal with a distrustful Sirius who still acts like she's the same person she was as a teenager. Hopefully Remus will realize his friend's emotional growth got stunted at about age 20 thanks to a stint in Azkaban.
Enjoyed their very tentative getting to know each other a bit better only to have the ring become a deterrent and regress the momentum--love the mystery and tension being added onto to Wendy's dubious nature and clandestine actions--great chapter!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Thanks. While they are getting to know each other, there is still much about her past that poor Remus doesn't know or understand. They are both emotionally damaged, in different ways, and it's going to take a lot of effort to work through that. There is a lot of mystery and intrigue here. Rather than doing the JKR have Harry in Dumbledore's office for a lesson in phoenix 101 so the end of the book seems a little less deus ex machina, I've tried to be a bit more obtuse since the audience here is not 10 year olds. I like to think of Wendy as a bit like Dumbledore - dabbled in the Dark Arts as a youth, realized what it can do to a person, but still realizes that sort of thing has its place in the real world, that the world is shades of grey and not black and white.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Thanks. While they are getting to know each other, there is still much about her past that poor Remus doesn't know or understand. They are both emotionally damaged, in different ways, and it's going to take a lot of effort to work through that. There is a lot of mystery and intrigue here. Rather than doing the JKR have Harry in Dumbledore's office for a lesson in phoenix 101 so the end of the book seems a little less deus ex machina, I've tried to be a bit more obtuse since the audience here is not 10 year olds. I like to think of Wendy as a bit like Dumbledore - dabbled in the Dark Arts as a youth, realized what it can do to a person, but still realizes that sort of thing has its place in the real world, that the world is shades of grey and not black and white.
Glad she hexed Sirius--it's the least the arrogant, hypocritical prat deserves--yes, I'll never forgive or forget how he treated Severus Looking forward to Remus and Wendy's next assignment together. Great chapter! Love the Order atmosphere and dynamics & dialogue of all involved!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Wasn't that a wonderful moment? LOL Everyone always threatens to do it, but no one ever does. I really enjoy stories that look at the events from an adult POV. They can be so much fun to reinterpret events. I'm glad your enjoying all the adult interaction.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Wasn't that a wonderful moment? LOL Everyone always threatens to do it, but no one ever does. I really enjoy stories that look at the events from an adult POV. They can be so much fun to reinterpret events. I'm glad your enjoying all the adult interaction.
Great dynamic chapter--loved the tactics & strategy planning, the background istory of why she hates werewolves and riff in her family, her bitterness and strong sense for justice at all cost, confidence & skill to get the job done; her strength and determination and independence is wonderful to experience through Remus' eyes--enjoy him being unnerved by her but also him slowly standing his ground and starting to assert himself--poor, dear sweetie! Wonderful conflict and development truly entrenching the reader into the heart of the OotP era--yum! Brilliant!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Thank you. One of the problems with an OC is that you don't want to dump an entire background right in the beginning. There is more coming on events that shaped her life an opinions, but seeing the big one about the werewolves really helps poor remus understand her a bit better. She's just thrown him so far off balance, I don't think he entirely knows how to react. I hope you enjoy the rest of the story.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Thank you. One of the problems with an OC is that you don't want to dump an entire background right in the beginning. There is more coming on events that shaped her life an opinions, but seeing the big one about the werewolves really helps poor remus understand her a bit better. She's just thrown him so far off balance, I don't think he entirely knows how to react. I hope you enjoy the rest of the story.
OMG, a cliffie--poor Remus! *yes, I'm a hopeless Lupin fangirl, so I'm having a heart attack in fear for him* Brilliant narrative, rich and detailed with all the twists & turns and descriptive background for a mystery/detective-rich plot and thrilling dynamics--love the banter between Wendy and Remus--love her bluntness and strength! So many things, but love Sirius' suspicious nature, unable to let the past go; Moody stands by her--yes! Again, thank you for such a rich, wonderful, dynamic tale!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
I really love cliffhangers. Some of them won't be quite as impactful in this case because the story is going up several chapters at a time, but there are times I can't resist picking one that's particularly good to be the last in the update round. I have had so much fun with Sirius in this one. He's got this huge emotional rift between wanting his friend to find happiness and knowing the object of his friend's affection used to be best friends with Bellatrix. While Moody, Tonks and Kingsley and Dumbledore trust her, I think it's going to take something huge for Sirius to ever reach that point.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
I really love cliffhangers. Some of them won't be quite as impactful in this case because the story is going up several chapters at a time, but there are times I can't resist picking one that's particularly good to be the last in the update round. I have had so much fun with Sirius in this one. He's got this huge emotional rift between wanting his friend to find happiness and knowing the object of his friend's affection used to be best friends with Bellatrix. While Moody, Tonks and Kingsley and Dumbledore trust her, I think it's going to take something huge for Sirius to ever reach that point.
Hahaha! Oooh, I love Severus' Slytherin tendencies being flexed--poor Remus, Severus just can't help himself and be the first to reveal Remus' 'condition'--hehe!Seriously, thank you for this gem of a tale--so happy to discover a Remus/OC tale, so rich with narrative detail and canon insight--yum! Look forward to catching up on this lovely, intriguing story! I love Wendy's no nonsense approach to all of them and her straightforwardness, and of course, love it that she's Slytherin with a conflicted, complicated past, and an Auror--yes! Wonderful! She despises werewolves... Hmmmn, Remus will have his work cut out for him in more ways than one *can't wait*
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
I really could not resist having Severus drop the bomb of Remus' secret. He's done it before, and this time no one made him promise not to tell. Since I see you've been through the first 4 chapters at least, I know you've learned some more about Wendy's history.I know Lupin fics are few and far between so I hope that you really enjoy this. I have such a soft spot for the poor man and want to kick JKR soundly for what she did to him.
Response from nagandsev (Reviewer)
Yes, I will never ever forgive her for killing him off after all the horrid things he'd been through in his life ( I see his attack by Greyback with peadophilic overtones--gah! poor man), so thank you for this wonderful tale allowing more of Lupin to exist & be experienced for all of us Lupin lovers!xxx
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
To rectify JKR's wrong, I wrote a fic for a LJ exchange a couple years back, but never got it posted here. Later today look for 'To Move a Mountain, Move a Pebble'. I'm also peeved about what she did to Snape, but I had a huge epiphany on his outcome last week that I've been playing with. I just hate that she killed off the most interesting characters.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
I really could not resist having Severus drop the bomb of Remus' secret. He's done it before, and this time no one made him promise not to tell. Since I see you've been through the first 4 chapters at least, I know you've learned some more about Wendy's history.I know Lupin fics are few and far between so I hope that you really enjoy this. I have such a soft spot for the poor man and want to kick JKR soundly for what she did to him.
Response from nagandsev (Reviewer)
Yes, I will never ever forgive her for killing him off after all the horrid things he'd been through in his life ( I see his attack by Greyback with peadophilic overtones--gah! poor man), so thank you for this wonderful tale allowing more of Lupin to exist & be experienced for all of us Lupin lovers!xxx
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
To rectify JKR's wrong, I wrote a fic for a LJ exchange a couple years back, but never got it posted here. Later today look for 'To Move a Mountain, Move a Pebble'. I'm also peeved about what she did to Snape, but I had a huge epiphany on his outcome last week that I've been playing with. I just hate that she killed off the most interesting characters.
OMG......this story is brilliant. It is written incredibly well and just flows. So good to get a mature grown up tale and keeping them pesky kids to a minimum is a real bonus. I've said it before but I only became interested in HP after POA and the deliciously flawed damaged men Jo introduced.....Remus and Sirius....oh and I realised that Alan Rickman was in the films. Not that Severus wasn't affected also. All of a sudden she was writing for women of a certain age....ie MY age! I like Wendy I think. Not too sure about her methods and scruples but one just needs to watch the Bond movies to realise that sex has often been used as a tool in gathering intelligence.I really appreciate the frequent updates too. Well done. Best wishes, Love Ali xxxx.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Thanks for the response. Even though Jo kind of waved her hands at the adult characters, almost like they were a bit of an afterthought to her, she really did make them so wonderful and real, I don't think she realized what she created with them. Wendy is every bit as complex as the others. The biggest 'problem' between her and the others is that she really was raised in a different world, a world that does not have the same morals. I hope you enjoy her growth as she finds her humanity. Funny that it takes a werewolf to teach her that. Dumbledore is once again a wise man who can see things in others they don't see themselves. Thanks again for the review and I'm glad you are enjoying. About every 3 days or so I try to put up 2-3 chapters.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Thanks for the response. Even though Jo kind of waved her hands at the adult characters, almost like they were a bit of an afterthought to her, she really did make them so wonderful and real, I don't think she realized what she created with them. Wendy is every bit as complex as the others. The biggest 'problem' between her and the others is that she really was raised in a different world, a world that does not have the same morals. I hope you enjoy her growth as she finds her humanity. Funny that it takes a werewolf to teach her that. Dumbledore is once again a wise man who can see things in others they don't see themselves. Thanks again for the review and I'm glad you are enjoying. About every 3 days or so I try to put up 2-3 chapters.
Thank you for writing a story giving Remus the dignity and respect he never seemed to get in canon--imho, he helped Harry all through PoA in soooo many ways, and yet, only Sirius is credited with making an impact (Patronus Charm, Harry? Who taught you that?) Anyway, enough venting about that. Loved your story! Thank you!& OC!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
I'm so glad you enjoyed this. Like you it did tick me off that Harry kicked Remus to the curb once he discovered that Sirius, his official godfather, was not guilty of the crime he was sentenced for. Yeah, I understand he's this link to your parents, but *thwap* Remus was their friend too. And he treated Harry like a son. I have a hard time believing Harry the orphan would not want to maintain a connection with Remus as well, but I guess JKR decided he was disposable and 'unimportant' or just one too many character to fuss with. Still ticked with her for killing Remus off, but that's been vented on already. LOL Thanks again for enjoying this and giving a lonely canon/OC fic some love. :)
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
I'm so glad you enjoyed this. Like you it did tick me off that Harry kicked Remus to the curb once he discovered that Sirius, his official godfather, was not guilty of the crime he was sentenced for. Yeah, I understand he's this link to your parents, but *thwap* Remus was their friend too. And he treated Harry like a son. I have a hard time believing Harry the orphan would not want to maintain a connection with Remus as well, but I guess JKR decided he was disposable and 'unimportant' or just one too many character to fuss with. Still ticked with her for killing Remus off, but that's been vented on already. LOL Thanks again for enjoying this and giving a lonely canon/OC fic some love. :)
Lovely ending to a dynamic journey--love it that forgiveness and love win in the end!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
I had so much fun with this one. Remus gets to be the hero because he is a werewolf, but then he can't communicate with the others very well. Thank goodness for Wolfsbane so he could be there to be the hero. Such a sweet and happy moment for the two of them. Here's to hoping it lasts.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
I had so much fun with this one. Remus gets to be the hero because he is a werewolf, but then he can't communicate with the others very well. Thank goodness for Wolfsbane so he could be there to be the hero. Such a sweet and happy moment for the two of them. Here's to hoping it lasts.
Love Severus joining in, and Wendy giving Bella soem of her own medicine. Wendy's deep in it, and poor Remus is subjected to his curse at such a vital time *biting nails* Great chapter!xxx
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
It was nice to see Severus doing what he could. And I so loved Wendy being able to give Bella some of her own. I was never happier than when Molly took Bella down. Poor Remus just going utterly insane trying to figure this one out.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
It was nice to see Severus doing what he could. And I so loved Wendy being able to give Bella some of her own. I was never happier than when Molly took Bella down. Poor Remus just going utterly insane trying to figure this one out.
She almost got away--stupid Lucius! Arghh! Great chapter! Trapped!
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
I know. It was so close, wasn't it? She did everything she could to theoretically keep herself alive and he had to go and 'rescue' her.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
I know. It was so close, wasn't it? She did everything she could to theoretically keep herself alive and he had to go and 'rescue' her.
Hmmn... several factors are affecting and effecting her. Will Remus follow? His patience seems to be reaching an end, and Wendy is plunging on into the nest of snakes/Death Eaters
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Poor Remus, feeling so helpless, trying to hard. He knwos that she's about to step in it, big time and it's like he's watching that train wreck in slow motion. Hopefully he can make her see some sense.
Response from phoenix (Author of Werewolves and Serpents)
Poor Remus, feeling so helpless, trying to hard. He knwos that she's about to step in it, big time and it's like he's watching that train wreck in slow motion. Hopefully he can make her see some sense.