Chapter 26
Chapter 26 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'.
Chapter 26
Remus Apparated near the house where Wendy was being held and immediately fell to the ground as the transformation began. He had hoped to arrive soon enough to detect some of the protective wards, but time had been against him.
When the transformation completed, a wolf stood on shaky legs where a man had been. After a few minutes, he felt strong enough to explore his surroundings and tested the air to see if anyone was nearby. Sensing no one, he tried to feel out for any of the magical wards. As he had expected, his magical senses were quite dull. He could tell that powerful magic had been used in the area, but nothing more specific.
Deciding to take his chances that his wolf form would prevent his detection, he loped toward the house. After five minutes, he gained confidence that his theory about being able to pass undetected as a wolf was valid. Surely, the Death Eaters would have come to investigate an intruder by now. And it seemed that an animal could not activate any of the destructive wards. His confidence bolstered, he picked up his pace and began running toward the house.
When he arrived at the house, he could see no lights; all the windows were blacked out. Even so, he moved cautiously around the outside of the building looking for a way in. He saw a window that was partially open. Standing on his hind legs, he could just nose the window further open. He hoped it was far enough that he could jump through quietly.
The room beyond was dark and quiet, but his wolf senses were perceptive enough to allow him to see and hear. The house was oddly quiet, so he carefully opened the door with his paw. Once he could get his snout through the crack, he sniffed the air. He caught Wendy's scent, but she wasn't on this floor. Further investigation of the air led him to conclude the ground floor was deserted.
Slipping through the door, he walked back and forth down the hall to determine which direction he should go based on where her scent got stronger. Deciding to go left, he quickly located the stairs. There was another strong scent mingled with hers, one that was almost familiar. He reasoned it must be Malfoy's, and a low growl rumbled in his throat.
Once at the top of the stairs, he tested the air trying to ascertain which room she was in. Before he could locate her by scent, he heard the squeaking of wood coming from a room on the right. He tried to push the door open, but found it closed. This door had a knob, which he could not operate.
Sniffing desperately at the door, he could tell they were both in there. Judging from the sounds and scents, they were having sex. Driven by anger, he lunged at the door.
Wendy had become detached from her current situation. She knew that she couldn't do anything to Lucius right now, or she risked incurring the Dark Lord's wrath. With her as his captive partner, his sexual urges had begun leaning somewhat toward the deviant side. She was desperate to find a way out. Before, he had been a tender and gentle lover; now, she found her hands tied to the headboard.
When they heard the thump at the door, they both stopped and looked. "Go away, Wormtail," Lucius growled. He was about to resume thrusting when there was another thump at the door. "She's mine!" he shouted at the door. Deciding to hex Wormtail, he rose from bed, picked up his wand and was walking toward the door when it splintered under the attack of a determined wolf.
Wendy cried out in surprised as something large and furry charged into the room. After a few seconds, she realized that it was Remus.
Lucius had dropped his wand and was trying to pry the wolf's jaw off his throat. The deep rumble of the growl filled the room.
"Don't kill him!" she shouted. With one quick yank, she broke the slat on the headboard, scrambled across the room, grabbed Lucius' wand, and freed her hands of the bonds. If Remus got in, perhaps I can get out?
Remus backed away, but did not stop growling. The fact that no one else arrived indicated they were the only ones in the house.
"Get dressed," Wendy ordered. She used his wand to transfigure his cloak into something more suitable for her. Once she was properly attired, she grabbed her necklaces off the table and summoned her wand. "Now, we're leaving."
Remus barked in protest, clearly not wanting Lucius to go with them.
"I need the Mark to leave. He happens to have one." She shoved Lucius out of the room.
"You're making a serious mistake," Lucius protested. He jumped as the wolf nipped at his heels.
"No, dear Lucius. It's you that have made the serious mistake. You will have to explain to your master how you lost him the ring. But I find I don't want to listen to you anymore." With a twist of her wrist, she silenced him. "Perhaps I can alter you memory to ensure the Dark Lord punishes you severely." Remus nudged against her, clearly displeased with her behavior.
Once they exited the house, Wendy stood very close to Lucius. "Now, guide us out of here. Know that I can use the ring to wreak havoc if you don't do so safely." She subjected him to a small round of Cruciatus to get his attention. Once again, Remus nudged her in disapproval.
After about fifteen minutes, she could tell that they were past the protective wards. Remus bounded about, trying to encourage her to leave.
She held her hand up in front of Lucius and gave him back his voice. "What should I do with you?"
"You're a blood traitor," he snarled.
She smiled proudly. "Of course I am. You were the one naïve enough to believe I was anything else. I will thank you for defending me from Bella. She could have blown my cover." Once again she submitted him to Cruciatus. This time she relished in the cries of pain it elicited as he fell to his knees. She only stopped when Remus barked at her. She grabbed Lucius' chin in a chokehold and forced him to look up at her. "Know this, Lucius, I used you and you never knew it. All you could think of was being with your precious lover." Before releasing him, she altered his memory so that he would not be able to reveal her duplicity and stunned him. The evidence would show that someone broke into the house and abducted her, and his memory would support that conclusion. While she would have enjoyed having him remember how she had betrayed him, she did not need the Death Eaters attacking her house.
Moving closer to Remus, she knelt down and pulled out her locket. "I don't know how Side-Along Apparition with you in this form would work." He put his paw on her hand, and she activated the Portkey.
Once they were back at home, Remus danced around in agitation. He wished he could communicate with her. He knew they had to leave. He ran back and forth between her and the door, hoping she understood.
Wendy sounded tired when she replied to his barking. "Let me shower first. I need to wash his stink off." As she climbed the stairs, Cappa appeared at her side. Before the elf could speak, she said, "Cappa, we won't be staying long. Please, pack a bag for us. I'm not sure when we'll be back."
"Yes, mistress," she replied before hurrying upstairs to carry out her mistress' wishes.
He followed her upstairs and curled up outside the door to the bath. The longer she took, the more likely they would come looking for her, even with her modifications to Lucius' memory.
After a five minutes, she emerged from the bath and quickly dressed in the clothes Cappa had left out for her. She then grabbed the bag and followed Remus downstairs. Once there, he stood on his hind legs and placed his paws on her shoulders. She took hold of his foreleg and Disapparated, knowing there was no other way for both of them leave without being seen.
Upon arrival at Grimmauld Place, his weight knocked her backwards. The weight of everything that had happened was weighing heavily upon her, and she was exhausted. She quickly looked around to make sure the street was deserted. Thankfully, it was. Picking up her bag, she moved as quickly as she could toward headquarters and unlocked the door.
Wendy dropped the bag and collapsed to the floor. Remus nudged her, but she didn't move. He started barking to get someone's attention. He succeeded in getting Mrs. Black's attention. Between the barking and the screaming, it wasn't long before Sirius, Moody and Tonks ran upstairs.
"What are you doing here?" Sirius asked Remus.
Remus bowed down next to Wendy and began whimpering.
Tonks knelt next to Wendy and heard quiet, incoherent mumbling. "She needs a Healer. She's conscious, but she's not here."
"We can't get her to a Healer. She's escaped from the Death Eaters, and they will be looking for her. Let's get her upstairs," Moody replied.
Sirius was about to pick her up when Remus whined and pawed at her hand. The ring. It's the ring. Come on, Sirius. I know you have to recognize it.
"Remus, back off," Sirius said as he shoved the wolf away. Sirius fell backwards when Remus growled at him. He saw that both Tonks and Moody had their wands at the ready.
Remus once again nudged at Wendy's hand.
Sirius couldn't understand his friend. "What's up with...?" He picked up Wendy's hand. "The ring! She still has the ring."
Remus barked triumphantly and moved away from Wendy.
Moody looked at the ring. "I'm going to send a message to Albus. He needs to know about this. Get her upstairs. Tonks, take a look at her and make sure she's not injured."
Remus followed them upstairs and refused to leave the room.
Wendy began thrashing in her sleep and mumbling. "No. Get off. Don't touch me."
Remus, still in his wolf form, found he could not restrain her and tried comfort her by lying next to her..
She screamed, "Get off!"
Remus found himself thrown across the room. She had used the ring against him. He crawled across the room and whimpered at the side of the bed. He looked up when he heard the door open.
"I came as soon as I heard." Albus asked with Tonks following in his wake.
Tonks frowned. "She's still not coherent. She passed out as soon as she got here."
Albus placed a comforting hand on Remus' wolf shoulders. "You should rest. There is nothing you can do for her like this."
Remus' ears drooped and whimpered. He feared he would lose her, that the ring's hold was too strong.
"It's the ring, isn't it?" Tonks asked quietly, knowing that's what Remus was thinking.
"It is," Albus replied sadly.
Tonks asked, "Can you help her? Supposedly, Severus gave her a potion to help her, but I didn't get any of the details on how it would help."
"I know what potion he gave her. Now, my friend, there is nothing you can do here right now. Go get some rest. I'll let you know when I have finished," Albus said, addressing Remus.
"Come on," Tonks nudged gently.
Remus started to leave, but glanced back at Albus and Wendy.
"It is really best if you don't see what I have to do," Albus replied as he waved Remus out of the room. Sirius was waiting outside to take Remus to his room.
Remus froze outside the closed door and made it clear he was not moving any further.
"Fine," Sirius said in exasperation. "You've had your potion; you're safe enough."
After a few hours vigil, Remus' ears perked up when he detected a change Wendy's scent; there was something wrong with it. She smelled ill.
He couldn't hear anything coming from the room. Clearly, a Silencing Charm must have been cast, but he didn't like the smell coming from the room. He started whimpering and pawing at the door. When that didn't get any response, he started barking.
"Bloody hell, Remus!" shouted Sirius as he descended the stairs. "Would you quit it? Dumbledore is still in there." Sirius tried to shove Remus back across the hall, but the wolf wouldn't budge and gave a low warning growl. "Fine, have it your way, but wait quietly." Sirius stomped back upstairs.
Remus lay down in front of the door determined to see Wendy as soon as Albus was finished.
Albus opened the door and was not at all surprised to see a wolf waiting for him. "Remus, come in."
Remus moved into the room and glanced at the bed.
Knowing what Remus was thinking, Albus replied, "She will recover. It will not be an easy recovery, but she will survive. The ring was taking control of her, changing her personality. I have done the best that I can." He regained his seat, feeling quite exhausted from removing the ring.
Remus put his head on Albus' lap, thanking the old man for what he had done to help Wendy.
"I will take the ring and find a way to destroy it." He absentmindedly petted Remus. "I cannot say when she will wake. She was wearing the ring for nearly a week and there is evidence she was using it. The more it is used, the more it changes the wearer."
Remus whimpered and crawled into bed with Wendy, curling up next to her. He gently licked her face, hoping for any sort of reaction, but he was disappointed.
"It will take time, my friend," Albus replied sadly before leaving the room.
When Wendy woke, she wasn't sure where she was. She was in a musty old house and started to panic, thinking she was back at the Dark Lord's hideout and that she would soon have to face Lucius again. When she tried to get up, she discovered that someone's arm was wrapped around her and started to panic.
"Wendy? Wendy, you're safe. It's Remus," he said as he realized she was awake. With a wave of his hand, he lit the lamps so she could see him.
"Remus?" She reached out to touch him to make sure he was real. "You look horrible."
He leaned into her touch and covered her hand with his. "I've been worried about you and have hardly left your side."
From his appearance, she thought she must have been unconscious for some time. His hair was quite a bit longer than what she remembered and he had a beard. She carefully felt his beard. "How long?"
"It's been two weeks since I rescued you." He could feel her playing with his beard. "I'll shave it off." He had not taken much time for himself while she was unconscious.
She smiled at him. "I kind of like it." She began to process what he had said. "You came for me?"
He lay next to her and wrapped her protectively in his arms. "I will always come for you. How do you feel?"
"Weak, sore, I don't know. What happened?" She was confused. Her memories were a jumbled mess.
"Are you sure you want to hear that?" he asked cautiously.
"Why?" She didn't like the tone of his voice.
"Well, you did a lot of mumbling while you were unconscious. I think you were remembering things that happened then. You... did some things you might regret." He gently stroked her hair, not really wanting to upset her. "Would you like to walk around a bit?"
"Maybe a little and then it would be heavenly if I could take a soak."
He kissed her softly and replied, "I could arrange that for you. Why don't we go get something to eat?" After helping her to her feet, he found that she had to lean heavily on him for support.
She was exhausted by the time they made it to the kitchen. "Nothing fancy, if you please."
"Of course." He quickly made a couple of sandwiches for the two of them.
"What's been happening while I've been out?" she asked.
"Not much. Cappa reported that Malfoy did come by your house, but she couldn't tell him anything." He couldn't really tell her too much more since he had been with her most of the time. "Are you ready for that bath?" he asked when he saw that she was finished eating.
"Looking forward to it," she replied.
She was so exhausted when they reached the first floor, that he picked her up and carried her the rest of the way. "Where's Sirius?" she asked.
"He's been spending a lot of time with Buckbeak." Once her bath was drawn, he helped her into the tub. "Did you need me to stay with you?"
"Afraid I'll fall asleep?" she asked playfully.
He stroked her hair and looked into her eyes. "Actually, yes, I am." He took a seat on the toilet lid. He didn't want to risk losing her to a silly accident after all they had been through.
"If it will make you feel better, you can stay." She noticed he was watching her with a pained expression. "What?"
He knelt beside the tub and took her hand in his. "I was afraid I had lost you. We had no idea how we were going to get you back." He then launched into what had prompted his rescue.
As he recapped her rescue, the memories started flooding to the surface. She started crying.
"Wendy?" Remus asked cautiously.
"Oh, Remus, it was horrible. I've been horrible." She disintegrated into tears.
He helped her out of the tub, dried her with a wave of his wand, and wrapped her in her bathrobe. "It wasn't your fault, darling," he reassured as he led her to the bed. All he could do was hold her while she cried. He knew Albus had said it would be a difficult recovery, and it might take a long time before she was once again herself, but he was willing to wait.
"How can you forgive me?" she whispered after several minutes.
He kissed the top of her head and continued to hold her tight. "Because I love you."
She clung to him desperately, gaining strength from his presence.
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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.