I've read ahead a couple of chapters and had to come back to this one to make another comment.  The Patronus casting in this chapter is really brilliant.  When I thought back on it, you've really framed his insanity brilliantly by demonstrating the instability of his mind, yet he maintains the ability to control it--even if his hold is so very tenuous.  Thanks ever so much!

Oh, so very pleased to see that you updated! I'm grinning ear-to-ear. And I liked Severus and Hermione's "reconciliation." I was also pleased to see the boys' reactions -- especially after having sheltered Mad Severus for so long, I would have been disappointed if they had reacted in any other way. And their questions were quite astute and showed their caring for Hermione.

I'm looking forward to seeing more of Severus -- and Albus -- and am particularly looking forward to any scene you may care to share of the two of them having a discussion -- that could be interesting and touching, I think.

Very cool story, very glad you updated, and very proud of you for losing weight! (Having lost over 30 lbs myself, and, thank God, kept it off, I know how much work that can be.) Good luck on the 5 K walk and raising money for the Humane Society (I'm a big animal lover, myself). Congrats!

A very nice chapter, indeed!  Poor Severus, getting all worked up like that and then ... full stop.  Yikes!  It's nice to see Harry and Ron handling their relationship a bit better than they do in most fics.  A pleasant change.

*is totally embarrassed that I gave a huge fangirl squeal when I received the update email in my inbox*

But it was worth it! That was an evil cliffie for so long last time, but this chapter made up for it. I don't think I could have handled Hermione and Severus being on the outs with each other so soon. A little misunderstanding that was resolved perfectly is one thing; having the two not speak is another. 

I was very glad to see that Hermione returned to infirmary immediately. If she had let it go then I am afraid that they may never have resolved it. 

Great update, and CONGRATS!! Losing that much weight is an AMAZING accomplishment. Anytime you are feeling a little down or are struggling, just think back to last Christmas' pictures, and think of what this Christmas' pictures will look like if you stick to your plan.  Good luck with your 5k walk, and I hope you raise plenty of money!

"I expect you'll explain later on how Severus can be functional in carrying out his orders without being sane, right? And is there a cure for his madness?" said I.

Great chapter!  I am reading this at work, and was unable to stifle my laughter when Hermione promised Severus she'd not hex off his nipples.  It makes me laugh even thinking about it now!  You definitely have me looking forward to more.

Interesting story you've got here, Pooka. A bit darker than I expected, but with plenty of humor to lighten it. Quite possibly the best thing you've written so far.

severus need a stright jacket and a nice padded room

Wow, Whore's Snape new favorite word, eh?  I can't wait to see what happens next!

Now this is a really interesting and new plot.  I can't wait to find out what's up with Snape.  And I am really liking this "in-charge" Draco.  Look forward to more soon.  Thanks, JoAnne

more and more interesting. I'd like to know though how Snape came to be mad.

I'm sure most, if not all, reviewers have asked you this:  why is "whore" Severus' new favorite word?  I love your style of writing, you're doing fabulous.  Can't wait for more!

I hope this find you and your muse happy and healthy. I think that I read that DH did a number on your muse. I hope it regains its strength soon. This is by far, one of my fave fics of all time and I would love to see it finished. I hope everything works out for you. Hugs and best of wishes! Muggle Mom

Dying for an update here!  Seriously, I fear for this and other wonderful WIPs as the book 7 release date looms.  My biggest fear is that this will be abandoned if it gets canon-shafted.  Hope to read the ending soon!

I am so excited. This is really good, doll! :) I wondered if the boy would be Draco. I like that Severus is playing like someone who's mad. Muahaha... Did the stress from killing Dumbledore get to him? Teehee... Can't wait for more.

A cliffhanger! Oh! The pain...the pain.... I'm a little speechless right now. :-) This is going to be another one of you fantastic stories. I am delighted to read the first chapter - your writing is, as always, excellent. 

Oh, I need more.  Nownownow.  Please. =)  A nice new intruiging story, I'm excited!  I very much like the shifting Patronus idea, very cool.  Obviously surprised about Hermione leaving school, but it -does- make sense of course.  "Harry’s searches had turned up nothing; and now Hermione was afraid she knew why."  le sigh. =\This is so great, I can't wait for more! Keep up the awesome work!

Great start!  I'm so glad you've been inspired to write about the Horcrux Hunt.  I'm looking forward to many chapters to come.  Thanks for sharing!

I can't wait to see how the story ends! Please post the ending!

you have picked my curiosity with such a beginning. And I like the idea of a changing patronus meaning madness. But why would Severus use a patronus if not to contact the Order ? Is he trying to lure Harry to Hermione's house ? Please update soon !

Like the story.  Very interesting that Snape is insane.  Looking forward to more of the story.

Wooo Hooo!!!!!     A knew story from Pooka!! This is sooo my lucky night.  You've got me hooked. I can't wait to see if Severus really is crazy and if the boy turns out to be Draco.  Very intriguing beginning! I'm looking forward to chapter two.

Ooooh!  Good start on the hunt for the horcruxes.

I don't know if I left a review or not yet because my mac is crashing each time I leave one.  I am using my husbands PC and I am hoping for the best.  I love this story and do so hope it gets finished soon.  I loved the last chapter where Albus is alive (I am so sure so many fans would like this story to be true!)  I so hope you finishe this story because if I dont like the one JKR puts out, I can always reread this one HA HA!  I look forward to the next installment.

How is your muse? Don't you feel the need to update? I am dying to know what is going to happen here and that can't happen until you post the next chapter. Pretty please. I even asked the Easter Bunny for a new chapter. I wonder if your draft will be in my Easter Basket. I hope that your holidays are wonderful and your muse hasn't desserted you!