Chapter 16
Chapter 16 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'.
"Remus, stay here. I'll get rid of him." She mussed up her hair and applied a spell to make herself look pale and ill. She affected a fake cough as she shuffled down the hall.
"Lucius, what a surprise to see you. What brings you here?" she asked weakly.
He looked like he had been about to embrace her, but a coughing fit made him change him mind. "Well, I heard at the Ministry that you were ill and I thought I would see how you were doing."
"I'll be fine a few days. It's rare, but they don't think it's contagious," she replied, trying her best to sound sick.
"Do you know where you caught it?" He was trying to sound concerned.
"They think it might be from some foreign wizard we caught playing around with Dark Magic."
"And where was this?"
After another fit of coughing, she replied, "Out in Wales." She didn't want to give him any reason to think she had been up north.
"Is there anything I can do for you?"
She could tell it was a polite yet insincere offer. "I'm afraid not. I just need to rest and recuperate. I appreciate the offer, though."
"Yes, well, if there's nothing else I can do for you, I think I'd best be on my way. I'll come check on you in a few days." He seemed relieved by her answers.
"I look forward to it." She was thankful she was sick. "Thank you for stopping by."
He stood in front of her and placed his hand on her cheek. "Of course, I am very concerned about your well-being. Do get well soon." He smiled his insincere little smile and left.
Once she was sure he was gone, she reversed the spell and returned to the library. "Well, I think I've convinced him it wasn't me up north. He seemed to believe I was sick and I told him the source of my illness was a foreign wizard in Wales. Since I know he knows nothing of Legilimency, I'm confident he believed me."
Remus put aside the book he was reading. "But he will return, won't he? Wendy, this is too dangerous. You need to stop this before you get yourself killed, which I would like to point out, nearly happened the other night."
She hugged him and he very carefully avoided her back. "I know. But we nearly made a difference from what I learned."
"Now that sentiment is positively Gryffindor," he said playfully.
She replied sharply, "Mind your tongue. This is all about revenge, nothing quite so noble as your Gryffindor mind imagines. Followers of the Dark Lord turned my life upside-down and I want them to pay for that."
He smiled at her as she buried her nose in a book. She could believe what she wanted, but he thought he was right.
Evening was approaching and they still had no idea how to cure the burn mark on her back.
"You will go to St. Mungo's, won't you?" he asked. He knew that time was running out.
"I can't. The answer is here, it's just a matter of finding it." She was tired and frustrated and it was showing, but she wouldn't give up.
"You read about the curse. We don't have time to waste," he insisted. He didn't want to lose her.
"If Clarice has no idea how to treat it, I doubt anyone else would. I would lose time at the hospital and possibly get worse. Here, I have the best possible chance of finding the cure. I have books that no one else has ever heard of. Now, let's not give up. We still have about half an hour before Clarice arrives."
"You're impossible," he replied as he opened another book.
"Yes, I know," she replied smugly.
Clarice would be arriving at any moment and Wendy had begun frantically skimming books about ten minutes ago. Remus thought it would be highly unlikely for her to find anything that way, but he knew better than to comment.
When the doorbell rang, it was only a few seconds before Clarice arrived in the library doorway. "Should I ask what you are doing out of bed?" she asked sternly.
"Looking for a cure. I know what caused it, but I don't know how to fix it, yet. The answer is here," Wendy replied and gestured at the library walls.
"That's wonderful, but if you know what it is, I can take you to St. Mungo's and we can get about making you well." Clarice had grown used to Wendy's stubbornness, but this was setting a new mark. She couldn't believe Wendy was gambling with her life. Especially since it was obvious the spell was making her weaker.
Wendy looked up from her work as she put the latest book on one of the 'read' piles. "Not bloody likely. This is very old Dark Magic. It's over there," she pointed toward the other end of the table while grabbing a new book off the 'to read' pile.
"Here." Remus led Clarice over to the book, once he realized picking the right book out of the haphazard piles would be impossible.
"I hold you responsible for this. You were supposed to make sure she rested," she reprimanded.
He shrugged and replied resignedly, "I did the best I could."
The color drained from Clarice's face as she read about the spell Wendy had been hit with. "I'm taking you and this book to St. Mungo's."
"NO! That book does not leave this house," she said forcefully. She watched the two of them stare at her in shock at her outburst. She moderated her tone. "If that book were to be discovered, there would be too many questions. Questions I cannot afford. Wait a minute. Ah-ha! Here!" She stabbed at a page in her most recent book.
Clarice and Remus came around the table to look at the book. "I can't read Greek," Clarice said.
"Well, this is it." She cleared room on the table and brought parchment and quill over from the desk. "I'll transcribe it and then I'll need one of you to go out for ingredients. I don't think I have everything."
"Are you sure this is it?" Remus asked.
"Yes. It's specifically mentioned as a cure for the curse that hit me." She was only half listening to what they said as she began translating the text.
Clarice was examining some of the books scattered around the room. "Where did you get some of these books? There are some very rare and unusual tomes." As she continued perusing the titles, she noticed something else. "And banned."
Wendy looked up from her transcribing. "Most were part of the Westin library, some were ones I liberated from the Leah library over the years and never returned. Still others were rescued from the Black house." She looked at Remus and shrugged her shoulders in apology. "A few I've found at some of the less reputable bookstores around Britain and the Continent. I collect them. Now, if you will excuse me and let me finish transcribing this?"
Remus paced nervously. He still didn't like the idea of her trying to do this herself. He also didn't like the idea that she had essentially stolen books from the Black library. He began to wonder what else she might have taken.
"All right, here it is. Some of the ingredients are rare." She handed them a list of ingredients.
After looking over the list, Clarice said, "I'll take care of this. I don't think he'd be able to get some of these. What does the potion look like?"
"I haven't finished translating that yet. I wanted to get you started on the ingredients. I've placed checks next to the stuff I already have." She was now standing in front of a portrait on the wall, placed her hand on the edge of the frame and muttered an incantation before swinging it away from the wall like a door. She did the same for a safe door that was hidden behind it. She filled a small bag with Galleons. "This should cover the expense."
Clarice took the heavy bag of gold. "I'll be back as soon as I can."
Remus continued pacing as Wendy returned to her translation.
"Would you please stop that? I find it distracting," she asked.
"Sorry," he muttered and sat on the couch.
It took her nearly fifteen minutes to complete the translation. Once she was done, she read through the instructions several times. "I'm not sure I can do this one. It's very difficult. I have to ask you to go get Severus."
"You're kidding?" he asked incredulously. They had heard about how things were at Hogwarts with Umbridge. In the past, he might have been able to walk into the school and see Severus, but now, his presence would be questioned, especially with Umbridge's rule against visitors. He also knew that he would not receive a warm welcome.
"I can't afford to mess this one up. Surely, you remember enough from Potions to know that many of those ingredients are generally used in poisons. An error could kill me. Severus is the only one I trust to brew this potion," she implored.
"You've heard what it's like at Hogwarts with Umbridge there," he warned.
She sighed, "I know. I have an invisibility cloak you can use. That should keep your visit secret." She placed her hand on his arm. "Remus, I really need you to do this," she said urgently.
She left the room, leaving him to follow. "I don't suppose I have a choice in this, do I?" he asked. He found he was asking that question and awful lot lately.
"This is the only course of action. I don't know any of the potions brewers at St. Mungo's and that's why I want Severus. I know most of the rest of the Order doesn't trust him, but I do." She led him down into the basement. In the back corner of the basement, she waved her wand at the wall and door appeared. From a hook on the wall inside the door, she grabbed the invisibility cloak and handed it to him. "Thank you," she said softly.
He reached out to take the cloak from her and his hand froze as he touched hers. "You're quite welcome." Slowly, he pulled her towards him until they were nearly touching. In the dim light of the basement, he thought she was starting to look worse, as the effects of the curse started to prevail over the treatment she had received. "I'll return as soon as I can." He leaned down to kiss her softly on the lips. He found she was pulling him closer for a more passionate kiss and he wrapped his free arm around her.
Wendy pulled away as Remus touched the wound on her back and stomped her foot, due to the sharp stab of pain.
"Wendy, I'm so sorry," he apologized.
She knew he hadn't meant to hurt her. "No, don't worry about it. Go, get Severus and I'll set things up here."
When Remus arrived at Hogwarts, he could immediately tell how oppressive the atmosphere was. While it was after dinner and there normally should have been students milling around, the castle was quiet. A part of him was thankful for this, but the other part of him was sad.
Quietly, he made his way to the dungeons. He could see a light coming from under the door to Severus' private laboratory. He knocked on the door and waited for Severus to invite him in.
Severus watched the door open, but he didn't see anyone. He drew his wand and was about to throw a hex at the door, when he saw Lupin emerge from under an invisibility cloak.
"It's just me," said Remus.
Severus did not lower his wand. "What are you doing here? You know how dangerous it is." He quickly locked and warded the door.
"I do. Wendy has been injured and needs a very difficult potion brewed. You are the only one she trusts," he reported.
Severus finally lowered his wand and held out his hand. "Where are the instructions?"
"She wants you to come to her place and brew it there," Remus replied.
"Is she mad? I can't just leave the castle." He was currently on Umbridge's good side, if she had one, and he didn't want to do anything to change that. Leaving Hogwarts would be a quick way for that to happen.
"Severus, without this potion, she will die. She flatly refuses to go to St. Mungo's, saying that she can't trust them. It was a very obscure curse that hit her, obscure Dark Magic, and she doesn't want the scrutiny that would come along with explaining the injury."
"And how did she come to be injured with this obscure bit of Dark Magic?" He had a fairly good idea, but wanted confirmation before he formally committed himself to this task.
"She thought she had learned from Malfoy where the Death Eaters were meeting and hoped to find the escapees." Remus didn't really want to tell the whole story and hoped this would be enough.
Severus arched an eyebrow. "And?"
"We found them, well, actually, they found us. Are you coming or not? I'd really prefer you did, because if you don't I fear she will try to brew the potion herself, and she has already indicated she thought it was beyond her capability. If she does it wrong, it will kill her." Hopefully, this revelation would be enough to get Severus to cease questioning him.
"Do I need to bring anything other than myself?" Severus asked. He had always known he would help; he just wanted to torment Lupin. He had never before turned down an opportunity to further his knowledge of obscure magic.
"No, she has a healer friend of hers getting the ingredients she didn't have." Remus was relieved that it looked like Severus would be coming.
"I will meet you there."
"Thank you," Remus replied and wrapped himself back in the invisibility cloak.
When Remus returned to the house, he found Severus and Wendy in the basement debating over her translation of the original text. He was surprised to see that Severus had arrived before him. He was even more surprised to see how sickly Wendy looked. He knew the curse would kill her, he just hadn't expected it to happen so quickly.
"Your translation cannot possibly be correct," insisted Severus.
"This is ancient Greek, Severus. There are differences," she replied condescendingly.
He argued, "I am aware of the differences. As you know, the correct translation is imperative. Using my expertise as a Potions Master, what you have written is wrong."
She slammed her hand against the table. "Damn it, Severus, I know I'm right. I'm the one that has to take this potion. I know that if it's wrong it will kill me." She pointed at the parchment. "Do it that way."
Severus glared at her. "Fine, but when you die, it is not my fault."
Remus pulled her aside. "Are you sure you want to argue with him?"
"My Greek is impeccable. I know I'm right." Her knees buckled and Remus caught her before she fell. "I think I should sit," she said quietly.
"Has Clarice returned yet?" Remus asked as he led her over to the small couch.
"No. She should be back soon." Wendy was surprised at how quickly the curse was taking its toll. She had expected her decline to be more gradual.
"Can I get you anything?" He was very concerned by what he saw. Had they found the cure in time?
"Just some water," she replied weakly.
As he was heading upstairs to get her water, he ran into Clarice. "They're down in the basement."
Clarice saw Severus hard at work on the potion and Wendy resting on the couch. After a quick examination, she realized that Wendy was quickly getting worse. "How is the potion coming?" she asked.
"You have the rest of the ingredients?" he asked tersely.
She placed a bag on the worktable. "Of course."
"It will take several hours, and before you tell me, I do realize that time is of the essence. The less I am interrupted, the sooner I will finish," he said shortly.
Remus returned with the water and Wendy slowly sipped from the glass, doing her best to keep her hands from shaking. "Thank you."
Remus and Clarice could do nothing but watch and wait as the hours passed. Remus sat on the couch with Wendy leaning against him. "How much longer does she have?" he asked Clarice.
"I'm not sure. The book said two to three days and we're nearing the end of day two." She noticed that Wendy's breathing was becoming more labored. "Severus, do you know how much longer?"
"Perhaps half an hour," he replied. He was actually quite impressed that they had been able to leave him undisturbed for so long.
Remus closed his eyes and kissed the top of Wendy's head. He wasn't sure she would last that long as she had long since lapsed into unconsciousness. "Is there anything you can do for her?"
Clarice shook her head and replied sadly, "I'm afraid not."
After close to an hour, Severus ladled the potion into a glass. "It is finished. Though in my opinion, it will kill her."
"Severus, she will die without it. What do we do with it?" Remus asked.
"She needs to drink this dosage and some will need to be placed topically on the wound." He handed the glass to Clarice as he ladled another dose of the potion into a bowl.
Remus held Wendy as Clarice gently dripped the potion into Wendy's mouth. It took several long minutes before the entire dosage was gone. He then shifted her so that they could expose her back. As Clarice pulled off the dressing, he grimaced. The wound looked worse than it had before.
Clarice took the bowl from Severus and began dabbing it on the wound.
"How long will we have to wait?" Remus asked.
"Unknown. Books of that age tend not be incredibly detailed. Unfortunately, I cannot stay. My absence would be noticed and questioned. There is nothing more I can do, in any case." With that, he swept out of the room.
Clarice looked at Remus. "I think we should get her upstairs. It will be more comfortable for her." With a quick wave of her wand, she levitated Wendy upstairs. Once they had her settled in bed, Clarice said, "There is little more that I can do. I'll leave you to keep an eye on her. Contact me at home if you need any help. Tomorrow's my day off. Good night." She gave his shoulder a reassuring squeeze.
"Good night. Thank you, Clarice." He sat next to Wendy and cradled her in his arms.
Hours passed and Remus could not detect a change in her health. Her breathing was still shallow and now she had broken out into a cold sweat. He knew that Clarice had said there was nothing more to be done for her, but he couldn't stand helplessly watching her suffer. When he picked up her hand, he was shocked at how cold it was.
"Excuse me, Master Remus? Mistress is having a visitor," said Cappa meekly.
"Who is it?" he asked quietly.
"Mister Kingsley has come to see her. I is not knowing what to tell him," she replied nervously as she wrung her hands.
"I'll go see him." He kissed Wendy's forehead before going downstairs.
"How is she doing?" asked Kingsley when he saw Remus.
"Not well. She's taken a potion, but it doesn't seem to be doing any good." He ran his hand through his hair, hoping to straighten it out somewhat. He must look a mess.
"How are you doing?" Kingsley asked taking in Remus' particularly haggard appearance and the dark circles around his eyes.
"Not much better, I guess." He was physically and mentally exhausted from this whole ordeal.
"You know, I'm glad that she has someone like you to look after her." Kingsley had long since lost any jealousy he had over Wendy choosing Remus.
"It's a bit of a change. Normally, she looks after me," he tried to sound upbeat.
"You're a lucky bloke. Someone will come by tomorrow to see how she's doing. Hopefully, the potion will work."
"Did you want to see her? She's unconscious..." Remus realized how absurd this sounded, but he didn't know what else to say.
"No. That's quite all right. If you need anything, send the elf to me or Tonks and we'll see the message gets passed on. You should try to get some rest," Kingsley offered.
"I'll try. Has anyone said anything about Severus being gone from Hogwarts?" He knew that if Severus did get in trouble, the Potions Master would be sure to remind him that he was at fault for the foreseeable future.
Kingsley shook his head. "I haven't heard anything. I don't think anyone noticed he was gone. He's good at sneaking in and out of places."
So I noticed, he thought. "That's good. Thanks for coming by." He was starting towards the stairs, intent on returning to Wendy's side, when he saw Cappa standing on the bottom stair.
"Master Remus should be eating something. You is not taking care of yourself, sir. I has made you dinner and it's on the table."
"Thank you, Cappa." It occurred to him, as he ate his dinner, that Cappa had been referring to him as "master" for quite some time. Malfoy and Kingsley had both been "mister". From what little he knew about house elves, this was highly unusual. He would have to speak to Wendy about that. He looked down and saw that he had cleaned his plate. He hadn't realized how hungry he was.
After his second helping, he returned upstairs to his vigil. She was shaking from chills so he cast a warming charm on her, hoping it would help. He pulled a chair next to the bed and fell into a restless sleep; he didn't want to get too comfortable and fall into a deep sleep in case she needed help.
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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.