Chapter 6
Chapter 6 of 8
phoenixHermione and Severus question Dumbledore's portrait in the hopes of learning more about where evidence to fully exonerate Severus would be.
ReviewedChapter 6
Over dinner, Hermione considered that she really did not know Severus all that well. She had most definitely not expected him to kiss her. Of course how well had she really known any of her teachers? She had tried probing for information about his past, but he really didn't add much more than what he had told her while they had walked up to the castle. Not that she could blame him. If his time at Hogwarts had been as lonely and miserable as he indicated, she wouldn't want to dwell on it either.
She figured that asking him about what had drawn him to Voldemort's service was a bit too personal, so she opted for trying to learn something about his recent past, such as his likes and dislikes, hobbies and personal details of that ilk.
He had been slightly more forthcoming on that front, telling her that he liked classical music and jazz, both Muggle and wizarding varieties and as she had suspected, that he was a voracious reader. They then spent the rest of the evening debating the finer points of several authors. While the both enjoyed reading, they clearly had separate preferences and it led to a rather lively debate.
Their debate was interrupted by an owl tapping at the window. As Severus was closer to the window, he let the bird in and retrieved the letter. "We are to report to the Ministry in one hour."
She could see the despondency in his posture. Crossing the room she wrapped her arms around his arm and leaned against his shoulder. "We'll get some answers. I just know it."
"I find your optimism misplaced. There was ample opportunity for him to look out for me. I was nothing but a meaningless pawn to him, waiting to be sacrificed, and he's merely playing a cruel game with you."
He tried to pull away, but she held tight. "I don't think so. I think he was ready to let go of this secret."
"Then all he would have to do is say something," Severus snapped. "If he was so interested in me not being unfairly punished, we would not have to play his little games. Even if I had not been subject to the Unbreakable Vow, I believe he still would have had me kill him to ensure my place with the Death Eaters. He was that sort of man. He would have told me that his death would have meaning then rather than him just wasting away from the Dark Magic that could not be purged. He pretends to care, but I doubt that he actually does." He finally shook his arm away from hers and went to brood by the other window.
She decided to let him brood. One thing that she was learning was that she liked to be optimistic about things while he took the more pessimistic outlook. Given everything he had been through in his life, she could understand his reluctance to hope for anything good to happen to him. Though she hoped that would soon change.
Eventually he moved away from the window and sat in the chair, arms crossed, letting her know that he was in no mood for conversation.
Once it was time to leave, she let him know.
The two of them proceeded to the nearly deserted Ministry. The watch wizard only arched an eyebrow curiously upon learning that Severus Snape was one of his afterhour's visitors, but let them pass. Alastor Gumboil was waiting for them.
"Alright. Let's get this over with," he said shortly. He led them to a secluded office. "If he follows instructions, Dumbledore should be here soon. Of course, given the fact he didn't tell us anything useful last time, I wouldn't hold my breath that he'll be here."
"Are you going to stay?" Hermione asked.
"Don't you think there ought to be a witness in case he says something useful?" Gumboil asked.
Hermione and Severus shared a glance. "We've found that Dumbledore tends to be rather circumspect, more so when there are others around. If you would wait outside, we'll let you know if there's anything important you want to witness."
Gumboil considered the two of them momentarily. "It's not my life," he said as he shrugged his shoulders before heading outside.
As soon as the door closed, a voice spoke from the picture frame. "Ah, good, we are alone. Hermione, good to see you again. And you, too, Severus."
Severus snorted and crossed his arms.
She ignored his petulant behavior. "Professor, we searched through everything in the storeroom and found no sign of the keepings box. If perhaps you could give us a little more information about it?" she prompted.
He tapped his lips thoughtfully. "Most unfortunate. I had hoped the two of you would be able to find it."
Severus could no longer contain himself. "Why must we find anything? All that would be required would be for you to testify on my behalf!" Severus snapped.
"Ah, my boy, but it doesn't work that way," he said sadly. "You see, I am not in full possession of all the memories from when I was living. I am the essence that was Dumbledore and possess some memories, but there are great holes. Alas, I am unable to provide concrete evidence that all you did was in service to the Order."
Severus looked as though he was going to blast the portrait to bits.
"And one of those holes is what exactly became of the keepings box?" asked Hermione, doing her best to ignore Severus' emotional outburst.
"Indeed it is, my child. I wish that I could be more specific, but I cannot," he replied sadly.
"I told you this would be worthless," Severus muttered as he went to sulk in the corner.
"You told me that faith would be important. I've demonstrated my faith in Severus, and we searched through all your possessions to no avail," she said to the portrait.
"I also told you that love would be important," he added.
Severus' gaze shot to the portrait, and he locked eyes with his former master as he moved back in front of the portrait. "What about love?"
"I merely mentioned that it was a powerful emotion and that there is a great deal of magic associated with it," Albus said simply with a wave of his hand.
Severus glanced at Hermione who shrugged her shoulders apologetically. "I think he mentioned it in passing, but he said quite a bit when I last spoke to him."
"Clearly there is something more if you mentioned it. Did you decide to leave me to fester in Azkaban until by some very unlikely chance I would find love? That is a very cruel joke indeed if that is the case."
"I never said that love would have anything to do with finding the keepings box," Albus said cryptically.
Severus glared one last time at the portrait and started pacing restlessly. He had detested the old man's riddles in life, and his opinion of them had not changed with the man's passing.
Hermione stood in front of Severus to stop him. "Severus, I need your help in this. Clearly I didn't get the right information last time."
Albus smiled as he watched the two of them interact.
"You can wipe that smarmy grin off your face this instant," Severus said pointedly.
Albus tried to stop smiling. "Of course. I'm just pleased to see that you have found someone who can tolerate you."
Hermione started thinking aloud, ignoring the headmaster. "We searched through all the possessions. Kab said that everything other than your clothes and anything that was willed was there. I checked your will, and other than what you left Harry, Ron and me, everything else material you left to your brother. Probate told me that he didn't want any of it and to keep it at the castle. So that leaves us where we started searching for a keepings box that we have no idea what it looks like."
Severus had been listening to her words. "Would Aberforth have kept anything?" When no one answered, he snapped, "Well, would he? The elf said that everything was there except what was willed. What if Aberforth kept something?"
Albus considered them for a few moments. "There were a handful of possessions that belonged to members of the family, my mother and sister. He might have kept some of those. Though he might not have cared enough to check."
"It makes sense that you would have used something with some sentimental value as the keepings box," Hermione mused. "That way it would be less likely that it would be destroyed or forgotten."
"Other than the fact he didn't see fit to tell anyone," snapped Severus as he pointed at the portrait.
"Severus, my boy, had I told anyone and that information were to find its way back to the Death Eaters, your life would have been forfeit," replied Albus forlornly.
"At least then I would not have been sentenced to life in Azkaban!" Snape retorted.
"But without your help, what would have happened? How many more would have died at Hogwarts, and would the Sword of Gryffindor have made its way to the final battle," Albus asked pointedly.
Severus only glared at the portrait, knowing the old man had a point, but not willing to concede it.
Hermione decided to break up the argument. "So we go see Aberforth, and see if he kept anything. That seems to be our last hope."
"This whole thing is hopeless," muttered Severus, and he turned his back on the portrait. He knew that he never should have gotten his hopes up and should have just accepted he was pardoned and try to move on with a new life somewhere else.
Hermione placed her hand on his upper arm and looked into his eyes. "This isn't hopeless. I believe you and will do whatever it takes to make sure everyone else does, too."
There was a twinkle in the old headmaster's eye as he watched the two of them.
"Ever the optimist," Severus replied softly.
She smiled at him. "I prefer it to being a Gloomy Gus. You should try it sometime."
"There has been very little in my life to be optimistic about," he replied simply.
"I think you have something now," she responded before softly kissing him on the lips.
He was about to return the kiss when he remembered that they were not alone in the room and stiffened.
"Well, then. Since there's no further information I can provide, I'll let you see Aberforth," Dumbledore said before vanishing out of the picture frame with one last smug grin directed at the two of them, presumably returning to Hogwarts.
"Hogsmeade?" Hermione asked as though she didn't really want to move from where she was standing.
"Hogsmeade," Severus replied quietly before regaining his composure.
When they stepped outside, Hermione let Gumboil know that the portrait had not provided them with any concrete information.
It was late when they arrived at the Hog's Head, and the patrons were starting to empty out. They entered and took seats at the bar.
Aberforth came over to them. "Well, here's an unlikely duo," he remarked as he wiped the counter with his filthy bar rag." Looking between them, he said, "I don't suppose you came here for something to drink."
This time it was Severus who took the lead, having frequented the Hog's Head in the past. "Not this time. Did your brother leave you anything in his will?"
Aberforth snorted. "Messload of old magical junk. Told them to keep it up at the castle. I've no need for that sort of thing."
"Did you send it all back or were there any items you kept?" Severus asked.
"What's it to you?" Aberforth asked suspiciously.
Hermione looked as though she was going to jump off her stool and say something, but Severus placed a calming hand on her knee. "You know what a crafty, old bastard your brother was. He may have left something for me in one of his belongings, possibly a family heirloom you might have kept."
"So nothing in it for me," Aberforth replied as he picked up a glass and wiped it with the same filthy rag.
Finally Hermione had to speak. "Dammit, Aberforth, I know you aren't as heartless as you pretend to be. Your brother seemingly left Severus to hang, and you might have something in your possession that can prove he was nothing more than a pawn. Giving a man back his life is a noble thing."
They stared at each other for several long seconds. "You damned Gryffindors. Always comes down to being noble, doesn't it?"
"You've done what's right before, and you'll do it again," said Hermione.
Aberforth looked between the two of them. "It's almost closing. Wait 'til then."
Even though they had ordered nothing, Aberforth brought them a couple of bottles of butterbeer.
Finally the pub emptied, and after locking the door, Aberforth went into the back room. He returned carrying a medium sized jewelry box which he placed on the bar before him. "This was my mothers." He then pulled a smaller box out of his pocket and held it gingerly in his hands. His eyes took on a faraway look. "This was Ariana's puzzle box. I've never been any good at figuring the damned thing out."
He held it out, and Severus took it gently in his hands and carefully began examining it. Hermione watched him intently. "It's a Muggle puzzle box," she said excitedly. "My folks gave me one for Christmas when I was seven." She reached out to take it from Severus' hand, looking for the first piece that needed to be moved, and he turned to hand it to her.
He gently placed the puzzle box onto her palm. "There is more to it than that. It has also has a charm cast on it," Severus added as he watched her take possession of the box.
Hermione could feel the gentle hum of the magic of the box and noticed a subtle change in the hum as she held it in her hands. She examined the box from all angles, trying to determine how many moving pieces it had. Hermione and her father loved puzzles, the one he had given her that Christmas had fourteen steps, but she knew that there were those with many more.
It took the better part of an hour for Hermione to find the proper steps to open the box. Severus had watched her intently most of the time while Aberforth had gone about his business, glancing at her from time to time.
Finally she felt the lid click free, and she slid it back to reveal a surprisingly large phial with a glowing, silvery, swirling liquid in it.
Severus carefully removed the phial. "A memory," he said softly.
"It could be more than one." Hermione placed her hand on his, a warm grin on her face. "We'll take it to the Ministry first thing."
He wasn't sure how he felt about that. After all, they had no idea what exactly was in the memory, and he did not like the idea of anyone at the Ministry being the first to see it. He frowned.
"What's wrong?" Hermione asked gently.
"We have no idea what this memory is," he said, still staring at the silvery, luminous substance.
"The portrait told me that it is the information to prove you weren't a Death Eater," she said ardently.
He lowered his hand and looked at her. "But he also admitted he was not in full possession of all of Albus' memories."
"Why would he leave behind a memory that wouldn't help you?" Hermione reasoned, flipping her hand palm-up-wards.
He knew that she had a valid point, but it was nearly unfathomable to him that after all the suffering he had been forced to go through that he would be proven to have been Dumbledore's man through and through.
"Come on. Let's get some rest, and we'll talk about the memory in the morning." She took hold of his arm to lead him out of the Hog's Head. "Thank you for your help, Aberforth," Hermione said sincerely, leaving the open puzzle box on the bar.
The barkeep grunted at them as they left.
Severus stared at the memory contained in the phial, hardly daring to hope that it contained his absolution. He placed it protectively in his inside pocket.
When they returned to the house, he said, "I would like to view this before we turn it over to the Ministry."
Hermione considered his request. "I don't have a Pensieve, and I don't know anyone who does. Do you know anyone?"
He shook his head. "Dumbledore was the only one I knew who had one, and his is locked securely in the castle." He thought for a few moments. "I believe it would be prudent to request to view the memory in private before bringing it to the attention of the Minster or the Wizengamot so as not to waste anyone's time."
Hermione yawned, placing her hand in front of her mouth. "That's probably a good idea. Why don't you try to get some sleep before we go to the Ministry?"
He nodded and headed towards his room, but he knew that it was very unlikely he would sleep. He placed the phial on the small table in his room and stared at it, curious as to what it would show.
The next morning Severus was up early and pacing restlessly until it was time to go to the Ministry. Hermione knew that he would not feel much like conversing and let him pace. When it was nearly nine o'clock, they left for the Ministry.
As he had noticed when they were at the Three Broomsticks, people around him were whispering. He knew that even if he was exonerated there were likely to be those who would still whisper behind his back. Of course, he had been through this all before.
Hermione led him up to the Auror division where she sought out Kingsley. He knew that there were many times when Aurors used Pensieves, so he should not have been surprised. He led the two of them to an interrogation room where he gave them some privacy.
They both stared into the empty Pensieve.
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Latest 25 Reviews for Work Release
76 Reviews | 5.76/10 Average
Well, I'm hoping you are still working on this story, and haven't given it up. I quite like it. And who says you have to follow JKR's story now? Just write what you were always going to, and the rest can go hang. Mark it as A.U. If you have to; we'll still read it. :)
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Don't worry, this won't be abandoned. :) It's actually almost complete. I have a couple of more chapters almost ready to post. I've just had one of those pesky attacks of RL - you know things like cooking, cleaning, taking care of children. LOL I also don't want to spam the board by updating both of my stories at the same time. Thanks for reviewing and glad to see you are enjoying the story.
Response from TheCopperDragon2004 (Reviewer)
Yay can't wait! So many of my beloved stories ate being abandoned, I'm glad this one isn't!
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
I know what you mean. I did the review-a-thon and saw so many stories that looked interesting from the descriptions, but had not been updated in 6 months or more so I reluctantly passed, even though I was sure I would enjoy the story.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Don't worry, this won't be abandoned. :) It's actually almost complete. I have a couple of more chapters almost ready to post. I've just had one of those pesky attacks of RL - you know things like cooking, cleaning, taking care of children. LOL I also don't want to spam the board by updating both of my stories at the same time. Thanks for reviewing and glad to see you are enjoying the story.
Response from TheCopperDragon2004 (Reviewer)
Yay can't wait! So many of my beloved stories ate being abandoned, I'm glad this one isn't!
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
I know what you mean. I did the review-a-thon and saw so many stories that looked interesting from the descriptions, but had not been updated in 6 months or more so I reluctantly passed, even though I was sure I would enjoy the story.
Well, I'm hoping you are still working on this story, and haven't given it up. I quite like it. And who says you have to follow JKR's story now? Just write what you were always going to, and the rest can go hang. Mark it as A.U. If you have to; we'll still read it. :)
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Thank you for your review. I haven't given up on it, I just have summer vacation and visiting relatives in the house, so it's been chaotic to say the least. The next chapter should be up soon. I generally don't have problems with AU (heck, most of what I've written has been AU), but I was writing this when DH came out and the muses were gutted by what happened to Severus and refused to cooperate for years. They finally got over it. :)
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Thank you for your review. I haven't given up on it, I just have summer vacation and visiting relatives in the house, so it's been chaotic to say the least. The next chapter should be up soon. I generally don't have problems with AU (heck, most of what I've written has been AU), but I was writing this when DH came out and the muses were gutted by what happened to Severus and refused to cooperate for years. They finally got over it. :)
Gah, hell of a cliffie!it's probably just as well Dumbledore is already dead, because no doubt Severus would be inclined (after he's cleared) to repeat the task for all the missteps and wandering path he's leading the pair of them on.I tend to agree with Hermione, that it's all moving at too fast a pace, but then love is not something that runs to a definable schedule. ;)
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
<eg> Cliffies are always such fun - from the writing point. I know how frustrating they can be for the reading point.I have to agree with you that given all he's been through, Severus is probably going to start feeling a bit less guilty about the role he played in Dumbledore's demise. And poor Hermione is in a bit of a land of confusion. She didn't even want to work with Severus and now she finds she not only can get along with him, but might have some feelings for him. Pretty scary for her.Thanks for the review, and the resolve for the cliffie should be up soon.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
<eg> Cliffies are always such fun - from the writing point. I know how frustrating they can be for the reading point.I have to agree with you that given all he's been through, Severus is probably going to start feeling a bit less guilty about the role he played in Dumbledore's demise. And poor Hermione is in a bit of a land of confusion. She didn't even want to work with Severus and now she finds she not only can get along with him, but might have some feelings for him. Pretty scary for her.Thanks for the review, and the resolve for the cliffie should be up soon.
I can't help thinking that Dumbledore wanted Severus back in the castle, so used the idea of a 'keepings box' as incentive,knowing full well that it would take both of them to open it.The revelations into the psyche of Severus are interesting, and it's layering of his life that is making Hermione more and more cognisant of how large a role he had in saving their skins. :)
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Dumbledore is so annoyingly cryptic. I don't know that he planned for the two of them to get together, but he certainly is annoyingly pleased about it, isn't he?Hermione is definitely getting her eyes opened to the real Severus, though she is more open minded than the boys and always defended him - knowing the Dumbledore had a reason for placing so much trust in Snape. I think she's actually a bit relieved that despite everything Dumbledore put her and her friends through, that she was correct in standing by Severus. And she is gaining a new appreciation of what he did to keep them alive, even if all of it from the books isn't relevant to this story, he did still help out immensely.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Dumbledore is so annoyingly cryptic. I don't know that he planned for the two of them to get together, but he certainly is annoyingly pleased about it, isn't he?Hermione is definitely getting her eyes opened to the real Severus, though she is more open minded than the boys and always defended him - knowing the Dumbledore had a reason for placing so much trust in Snape. I think she's actually a bit relieved that despite everything Dumbledore put her and her friends through, that she was correct in standing by Severus. And she is gaining a new appreciation of what he did to keep them alive, even if all of it from the books isn't relevant to this story, he did still help out immensely.
Curiouser and curiouser. Manipulative old coot that he is, I doubt it's been too often that Dumbledore has ever had a dressing down from anyone.To give the information readily means there are things at play than neither Severus or Hermione realise.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Yeah, the old codger really had it coming. I don't know if she would have had the gumption to do it to his person, but she definitely reached the breaking point here, didn't she? Not that anyone can blame her.And yes, he would never make it that simple, would he?
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Yeah, the old codger really had it coming. I don't know if she would have had the gumption to do it to his person, but she definitely reached the breaking point here, didn't she? Not that anyone can blame her.And yes, he would never make it that simple, would he?
A pleasant snape in a position to ask, and receive pretty much anything from the Ministry. it seems a little too easy that the antidote worked so quickly, and I sense that it's going to be a long and windy path (with lots of jagged edges) before Severus truly is exonerated
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
It was nice to see Snape find his backbone again, wasn't it? He knew he had something he could bargain with.And there is a difference between a pardon and being exonerated. The latter clearly having a much more arduous path. Here's to hoping that path leads somewhere, right?
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
It was nice to see Snape find his backbone again, wasn't it? He knew he had something he could bargain with.And there is a difference between a pardon and being exonerated. The latter clearly having a much more arduous path. Here's to hoping that path leads somewhere, right?
This is such an inventive and original start, and it's sucked me in almost straight away. :)The mystery and hard decisions made make me wonder just what could be so toxic, and I can't help wondering if Minerva isn't one of the victims. It would make Severus work that much harder and longer to find a cure I think, given his previous friendship.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Thanks. I'm glad you liked the start. I was trying to find something that would cause the Ministry to decide that perhaps working with Severus is better than leaving him to rot. Of course, given he's working for his freedom, I don't know that it would matter too much who the victims were. Cure them or spend a lifetime in Azkaban - not really much of a choice, is it?
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Thanks. I'm glad you liked the start. I was trying to find something that would cause the Ministry to decide that perhaps working with Severus is better than leaving him to rot. Of course, given he's working for his freedom, I don't know that it would matter too much who the victims were. Cure them or spend a lifetime in Azkaban - not really much of a choice, is it?
Hermione, he cooks. Don't let that one get away! I'm glad he was able to get his feelings out in the open, but that she wasn't afraid to let him know it was too much too soon. Now, I really want them to get some answers!
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
LOL I love the sentiment about him cooking. His eagerness and her reluctance come from their respective ages, but at least he wasn't put off and deciding to pull away from her over it. Of course given he's who he is, he's probably inwardly thrilled that she didn't recoil from his affections. And yes, they need some answers.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
LOL I love the sentiment about him cooking. His eagerness and her reluctance come from their respective ages, but at least he wasn't put off and deciding to pull away from her over it. Of course given he's who he is, he's probably inwardly thrilled that she didn't recoil from his affections. And yes, they need some answers.
I should have known that Dumbledore's answer seemed to clear cut. He never quits, does he?That was quite an intimate secret that Severus shared to his newly acquired friend. Of course, he probably does realize how much he owes her, and he still wants to get in her good graces. I hope they find what they are looking for.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Nope, Dumbledore just has to obfuscate everything. As to him telling Hermione, I think he's finally realizing that there is a give and take to life, that now that he's a free man (well, almost free) he can do what he wants for the first time ever. He wants to learn more about her, so he realizes he has to tell her more about him. He's still trying to figure out why she wants to help him since no one else seems to want to do so. Of course, he was also careless with his remarks and backed himself into a corner where he was forced to answer, but it felt good for him to finally share that with someone who cared about him.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Nope, Dumbledore just has to obfuscate everything. As to him telling Hermione, I think he's finally realizing that there is a give and take to life, that now that he's a free man (well, almost free) he can do what he wants for the first time ever. He wants to learn more about her, so he realizes he has to tell her more about him. He's still trying to figure out why she wants to help him since no one else seems to want to do so. Of course, he was also careless with his remarks and backed himself into a corner where he was forced to answer, but it felt good for him to finally share that with someone who cared about him.
Well, at least Severus wasn't too stubborn, and he is allowing her to help him, even if he just thinks he is humoring her. Now, let's hope they can find this keepings box.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Severus is still a bit beaten down from his time being left to rot in prison and being abandoned by everyone. Of course Hermione while not Dumbledore's number one fan, has to have her Gryffindor belief that there was no way he could have abandoned Severus.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Severus is still a bit beaten down from his time being left to rot in prison and being abandoned by everyone. Of course Hermione while not Dumbledore's number one fan, has to have her Gryffindor belief that there was no way he could have abandoned Severus.
I didn't expect success so quickly. That just means more time for a developing relationship. Well, provided he doesn't get fussy and run off or something. That would be totally unlike him though, wouldn't it? :) I suppose he probably can't really move on until he is officially pardoned, even though it has been promised. Off to find out more ...
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Well he had to succeed quickly since the Ministry left securing his help until just about the last minute. But that's okay, Hermione has found herself and underdog to champion. 
So it's not like she will be abandoning him. Thanks for your review. :)
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Well he had to succeed quickly since the Ministry left securing his help until just about the last minute. But that's okay, Hermione has found herself and underdog to champion. So it's not like she will be abandoning him. Thanks for your review. :)
Being mean is not in Hermione's nature, and I'm glad she realized it and backed off. I wonder how long it will take them to decide that working together is not so bad? Snape will find an answer; there is too much at stake.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Being mean isn't in her nature. I think she was trying to find that line between authoritatve and mean and having some trouble with it. But she is bright enough to know that some methods don't work with some people. Ahem, Snape. ;) We're all rooting for Severus. I doubt anyone has the knowledge or experience he does, hence Arthur being forced to turn to someone he isn't sure he should trust. Thanks for reviewing and I hope you enjoy the rest of it. New chapters come every 4-7 days if I don't forget. :)
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Being mean isn't in her nature. I think she was trying to find that line between authoritatve and mean and having some trouble with it. But she is bright enough to know that some methods don't work with some people. Ahem, Snape. ;) We're all rooting for Severus. I doubt anyone has the knowledge or experience he does, hence Arthur being forced to turn to someone he isn't sure he should trust. Thanks for reviewing and I hope you enjoy the rest of it. New chapters come every 4-7 days if I don't forget. :)
And being the Potion Master he is, I suspect him to be quite a formidable cook.I like that Hermione allows herself time to be in doubt. Some things should not be rushed.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
I'm sure he is quite a good cook. As everyone has said, following a recipe is a lot like brewing a potion.Hermione would naturally have doubts. Her life has been a whirlwind of adventure that is just now starting to slow down. Of course, his life was stagnating in prison and he's likely got the 'take the bull by the horns' mentality. Quite a dichotomy there, isn't it?
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
I'm sure he is quite a good cook. As everyone has said, following a recipe is a lot like brewing a potion.Hermione would naturally have doubts. Her life has been a whirlwind of adventure that is just now starting to slow down. Of course, his life was stagnating in prison and he's likely got the 'take the bull by the horns' mentality. Quite a dichotomy there, isn't it?
I'm guessing that when Hermione realises she loves Severus the "keepings box" will open, perhaps they already have it but won't know until it opens, The kiss was very sweet, and unexpected 
.
I'm sure that Severus is a good cook, being a potions master would help in that line.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Soon the mystery of the keepings box will be revealed. I'm glad you liked the kiss. I think Severus is in this place where his thoughts are something along the lines of 'nothing ventured, nothing gained' and that he knows his time with her is quite finite if something doesn't happen. This is a man who can finally take control of his life.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Soon the mystery of the keepings box will be revealed. I'm glad you liked the kiss. I think Severus is in this place where his thoughts are something along the lines of 'nothing ventured, nothing gained' and that he knows his time with her is quite finite if something doesn't happen. This is a man who can finally take control of his life.
Dumbles and his riddles. Why do I get the feeling that they are making this harder than it really is this time? A keeping box sounds so much like a house-elf term for something. Hermione is so very cute when she's flustered - I get the feeling Severus enjoys seeing her that way when he's responsible for getting her that way.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Yup, Dumbledore has to have his riddles. Can't give a straight answer to anything, even if it keeps an innocent man out of prison. And isn't flustered Hermione fun? Something tells me Severus' has enough personality quirks he could do that for years. :) Thanks for reviewing.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Yup, Dumbledore has to have his riddles. Can't give a straight answer to anything, even if it keeps an innocent man out of prison. And isn't flustered Hermione fun? Something tells me Severus' has enough personality quirks he could do that for years. :) Thanks for reviewing.
That elderly wizard in Magical Probate was getting on my last nerve. If Hermione hadn't decided to talk to Arthur to sort out this folderol, I think I might have cursed the old man myself just to get him out of the way. I keep thinking about what that Keeping Box might be, and we have a few clues to go by:•Severus had said that "It's a magically sealed object that will open when the time is right." •Dumbledore had talked about Faith, and how Harry's faith had allowed him to call Fawkes when he an Ginny were trapped in the Chamber of Secrets. •And Hermione has already demonstrated the quality that was necessary to open the keeping box.Well, I have no idea right now what that "box" might be, but I'll keep reading this story and looking for more clues. You've really set us quite a puzzle to unravel.I'm glad that Severus' kiss didn't put her off. I think they can find the evidence to prove his innocence and get to know each other better at the same time, too. In fact, I don't know how the two of them could find that proof without getting to know more about each other.Thanks for another great chapter!Beth
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Aren't lifelong, institutionalized bureaucrats fun? NOT! I really enjoyed having some fussy old, by the rules wizard for Hermione to have to deal with. Thank goodness she knows the Minister.I'm glad you are enjoying the puzzle of the box. It just wouldn't be right if Dumbledore had left evidence where someone might actually be able to easily find it. So frustrating that he can play these little games even from beyond the grave.That kiss was a nice subtle shift in their relationship, wasn't it? He figures he can finally live his life on his terms and not feel like he has to protect others and she's coming into adulthood and not quite sure what she wants. And he can feel confident that he didn't get outright rejected.Thanks for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful review.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Aren't lifelong, institutionalized bureaucrats fun? NOT! I really enjoyed having some fussy old, by the rules wizard for Hermione to have to deal with. Thank goodness she knows the Minister.I'm glad you are enjoying the puzzle of the box. It just wouldn't be right if Dumbledore had left evidence where someone might actually be able to easily find it. So frustrating that he can play these little games even from beyond the grave.That kiss was a nice subtle shift in their relationship, wasn't it? He figures he can finally live his life on his terms and not feel like he has to protect others and she's coming into adulthood and not quite sure what she wants. And he can feel confident that he didn't get outright rejected.Thanks for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful review.
And, as a Potions master, I'm sure he's an excellent cook at that. ^_^
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
I'm sure that he is. Given his reputation, I'm sure he has plenty of skills that can surprise Hermione.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
I'm sure that he is. Given his reputation, I'm sure he has plenty of skills that can surprise Hermione.
Now there's a new idea for Severus to warp his mind around, someone that cares about him, and doesn't make him suffer for it.
On to the search for the keepers box.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
It is a new idea for Severus, isn't it? She's be nice to him and really has nothing to gain for herself. She's doing this because it's the right thing to do. Very novel for him.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
It is a new idea for Severus, isn't it? She's be nice to him and really has nothing to gain for herself. She's doing this because it's the right thing to do. Very novel for him.
YES! at last someone willing to stand up to the old bastard esteemed Headmaster, I hope he will at least tell Hermione what this " keepings box " looks like.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
LOL I love everyone's reaction to her lashing out at Dumbledore. Someone had to do it, right? Hopefully she can solve the mystery of the keepings box and help Severus get his life back.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
LOL I love everyone's reaction to her lashing out at Dumbledore. Someone had to do it, right? Hopefully she can solve the mystery of the keepings box and help Severus get his life back.
Hermione doesn't have much reason to trust Severus, and yet she does, she must be listening to her heart. Cant wait to see what the great bearded tit... sorry professor Dumbledor, has to say for himself.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
LOL I love your description of Dumbledore. Severus has said just enough to picque Hermione's curiosity, to help her realize that none of them really knew him. And of course she loves to champion and underdog. :)
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
LOL I love your description of Dumbledore. Severus has said just enough to picque Hermione's curiosity, to help her realize that none of them really knew him. And of course she loves to champion and underdog. :)
Perhaps there is method to Dumbledore's madness. At each stage when they have run into a barrier to finding what they needed, they have worked together to put the pieces in just the right order. As it was with brewing the healing potion, now to find the keeping box they are working together... and at each stage they learn something more about each other... and each time they grow closer and trust more deeply. I can't wait to find out what they find in that stroage room!Beth
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Given it's Dumbledore, I'm sure he thinks there is a method to his madness and always has been. Just not everyone shares his vision of things. And I think he's meddling from beyond the grave, much to everyone's annoyance.
Response from braye27 (Reviewer)
LOL! I think you're right about Dumbledore's opinion of his meddling ways. He was always clothing his plans in that "greater good" ploy which, if one happened to find him/herself not among the ones who benefitted, was very annoying, indeed.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Given it's Dumbledore, I'm sure he thinks there is a method to his madness and always has been. Just not everyone shares his vision of things. And I think he's meddling from beyond the grave, much to everyone's annoyance.
Response from braye27 (Reviewer)
LOL! I think you're right about Dumbledore's opinion of his meddling ways. He was always clothing his plans in that "greater good" ploy which, if one happened to find him/herself not among the ones who benefitted, was very annoying, indeed.
Y'know, why does Dumbledore have to be so cryptic? There's NO NEED for it. Jerk.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
I think your last word answers your first question. LOL When has that man ever given a straight answer to anything? But at least he gave her some sort of an answer - which is more than Minerva got.
Response from cmwinters (Reviewer)
Yeah.Dumbledore? NOT high on my list of "favourite people". Even IF I DO think Snape and Harry were right to be "Dumbledore's Men". That's less praise of Dumbledore than condemnation of the Dark Lord and the Ministry; the alternative was so much worse...
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
I think your last word answers your first question. LOL When has that man ever given a straight answer to anything? But at least he gave her some sort of an answer - which is more than Minerva got.
Response from cmwinters (Reviewer)
Yeah.Dumbledore? NOT high on my list of "favourite people". Even IF I DO think Snape and Harry were right to be "Dumbledore's Men". That's less praise of Dumbledore than condemnation of the Dark Lord and the Ministry; the alternative was so much worse...
I wonder what Snape makes of Hermiones comment about her being the only one that cares for him. I hope he doesn't balk too much.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Definitely a shock for him to hear to that someone actually cares about him. That's something that probably hasn't happened since Lily. Dumbledore may have acted like it, but I think in hindsight Severus realizes he was merely a tool. Hopefully his new lease on life will allow him to open his eyes and realize he doesn't have to be alone, that no one would be in danger from getting close to him.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
Definitely a shock for him to hear to that someone actually cares about him. That's something that probably hasn't happened since Lily. Dumbledore may have acted like it, but I think in hindsight Severus realizes he was merely a tool. Hopefully his new lease on life will allow him to open his eyes and realize he doesn't have to be alone, that no one would be in danger from getting close to him.
Enjoyable chapter thank you. Wonder if the House Elf could have found the item. But then they would not have the opportunity to cement their friendship.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
The house-elf would have gladly helped, but there is the small matter of not knowing exactly what they are looking for. And as you said, it gets her more opportunity to unravel the enigma of Severus Snape.
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
The house-elf would have gladly helped, but there is the small matter of not knowing exactly what they are looking for. And as you said, it gets her more opportunity to unravel the enigma of Severus Snape.
I bet writing this chapter was something of a catharsis for you. I know I had some major grief with the 'Sainted Dumbledore'. Enjoying!
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
It really did feel good to have someone finally lash out at him. Yes, he was a powerful wizard, but he was by no means perfect and those cracks were showing before Rita's book, but her investigation really put them in perspective. I'm glad you are enjoying this so far and thanks for the review. :)
Response from phoenix (Author of Work Release)
It really did feel good to have someone finally lash out at him. Yes, he was a powerful wizard, but he was by no means perfect and those cracks were showing before Rita's book, but her investigation really put them in perspective. I'm glad you are enjoying this so far and thanks for the review. :)