Chapter Five

Disclaimer: All characters belong to J.K. Rowling. I own nothing here except the plot. This is for entertainment purposes only. Happy reading!

A big thanks goes to my original beta, Charmed Nay. Also, thanks to GinnyW. She is doing the beta work for me this time round.

"Do you mind if I keep my trunk just there near the bookshelf?" Hermione asked, not wanting to clutter his personal space. It wouldn't do to annoy him after only just returning.

"I don't see that to be a problem. In fact, I can summon an elf to bring a wardrobe for you. It would be easier for you to manage your things," he offered.

"Oh, I've just thought on something. I have my things in my room still. Perhaps, they could just bring that wardrobe here. For now," she added when he looked surprised. She stretched tiredly.

"All right. I will take care of it. Go have a rest," he said, taking in her appearance.

"Will you come have a lie with me?" she asked hopefully.

"I could use a rest," he agreed with a smirk. "After our...late night." There. He'd broached the subject. Severus decided to let her make of it what she would. If she chose to talk about it, then he wouldn't mind.

"About last night...," she began as she slipped off her shoes. "I...does that happen often? Between lovers, I mean." She bit her lip nervously as she slid beneath his warm duvet. He seemed to look amused with her question. Was her inexperience something he found distasteful? "I'm sorry."

"No, no. Don't be." He slid in next to her, only hesitating briefly before pulling her to him. "I suppose it happens as often as desired by both parties."

"But how does one know if the other desires it to be?" She felt thick for asking the questions, but these were things that she needed to know. She'd not want to place unwanted attentions on Severus.

"Perhaps they grow to learn each other's habits enough to know if the need is mutual." He closed his eyes at the feel of her back pressed tightly against his chest. Emotion began stirring again. There were so many things that he wanted to say, but he could not. It was still too early in their relationship for that. "Do you feel that?" he asked silkily, pressing his groin into her backside. He heard her gasp. Chuckling softly, he said, "I think that I would always crave an interlude with you."

"Even during the day?" she asked, astonished by this bit of information. Her parents never went off to their room during the day. Nor did any of her friends sneak off to their rooms or corners of the castle for love sessions.

"Any time. I am not an Incubus, Hermione. I won't only come at night," he said slyly. She didn't comment for a long while. Instead, she ran her fingers along his arms, sighed contentedly, and snaked her legs more snugly with his.

"Severus?"

"Mmmm?"

"I would always welcome your attentions," she said, sounding much like an innocent maiden. "All you would have to do is ask."

Such an offer. Dare he play on this? Indeed. "Even now," he asked, bringing his lips to her ear. "During the day?" he mocked.

"Yes," she breathed, pressing back against him, digging her nails into his hands. "Even now." She didn't realize that her body had responded to his words until she felt herself moving against him again. She could feel his desire for her. It was pressed firmly to her bum.

Allowing him to turn her over, she looked into his eyes expectantly. He saw the light lust and curiosity that her eyes held, but he noted the dark shadows under her eyes. "Are you not too tired?" he asked before thinking. He hadn't meant to give her an easy way out. He wanted her, but the words were said.

"There would be time enough to sleep after," she said, biting her lip again.

He brought his lips down to hers. She was likely to be tender still, so he would still not do everything that he'd like to do to her. He'd take his time with her, allowing her to get comfortable with his body and the idea of lovemaking. The kiss was lazy at best. Each taking their time to taste the other. A woman in his bed had never had an appeal to him before. Not in this way. Hermione wasn't an intrusion. She was a companion. "Your suggestion is acceptable, Little One."

"Sev...Severus, can I undress you?" she asked, feeling a flare of courage. He nodded once, sitting up to allow her access. Shaky hands reached for the buttons on his finely woven white shirt. He resisted the urge to help her with the buttons. She needed to do this if she was to learn. Once the shirt was completely unbuttoned, she pressed both palms to his chest and slowly worked her way down to his stomach. Hermione ran her nails in the thickening thatch of hair near his trousers' waistband before following the trail back up to his chest. She leaned in to place a soft kiss on his chest.

His eyes closed tightly. Such a tentative gesture had him hardening. She was doing this of her on volition. She wanted to taste him. She wanted to touch him. He sucked in a deep breath as her tongue traced one of his flat nipples. "Is...is this all right?" she asked. He didn't open his eyes, only grunted his approval. Hermione had the lightest touch he'd ever felt. Only a small amount of pressure was put into the contact, yet he could feel it through to his bones. Her mouth found his other nipple. It was an odd but not unwelcome sensation. Biting back the urge to pull her mouth to his, he tipped his head back slightly.

She took this as an invitation to explore his neck. Without realizing it, he unbuttoned the cuffs on his shirt and shrugged out of it. Her mouth continued to burn into his flesh until he could take no more. He brought her mouth to his for a demanding kiss. Mindlessly her fingers worked on his belt, finally opening the buttons on his fly. He stopped the kiss abruptly to look into her eyes. She seemed only slightly afraid. Something else was driving her. He would allow her this exploration. Laying back, he placed her fingers in the waistband of his trousers, lifting his pelvis slightly as he guided her hands down. He released her fingers as instinct took over. In a timely fashion, she pulled his pants away, throwing them to the floor.

Taking a page from his book, she glided her hands along his skin from his ankles until she reached the top of his boxers. His eyes never left her face as she began pulling them down as well. He contained a chuckle as her eyes widened slightly once his hard form was completely revealed to her. Ridding him of the underpants, she began softly kissing her way back up. Once she reached his groin again, she looked into his eyes. He nodded encouragingly, and her tongue reached out to taste the tip of his member. She smiled faintly as one finger traced his length before bringing the entire head into her mouth. He groaned in an instant as she gently pulled him further into her warm, wet mouth. One hand reached down to grasp her hair. He'd not push himself further into her mouth, nor would he push her head down. Severus only wanted to feel for himself, the slight bobbing of her head. Untrained as she was, she had his blood boiling. If she kept this up, it would not take long. He wanted this to last.

"I want to kiss you," he whispered hoarsely, hoping she'd not think he was disappointed in her attentions. He saw no trace of it in her eyes as she slithered up his body. Their lips met and locked fiercely. Both began removing her transfigured dress at the same time, nearly tearing it in their haste. Without pretense, his hand found her core and delved into the liquid heat. She was nearly ready for him already.

She moaned and pressed into his hand provocatively. "Don't stop," she murmured against his lips. Happy to oblige, he slipped a second finger into her, pumping firmly in time to their kiss. Sliding the fingers out, he circled her nub a couple of times. "Oh my," she shrieked. He growled his approval, flipping her onto her back. He wanted to taste her again. He wanted her to reach her peak by his oral stimulation. This time when his tongue imposed on her folds, she made no protests. Instead she arched into his mouth and wove her fingers into his hair. "Don't stop, Severussss," she hissed as he began lapping frantically. Before long, she cried out in bliss and convulsed in orgasmic delight. He rested his face against her as her breathing slowed again.

Severus had nearly followed her to bliss without even being in her. He took these moments to fight for control. No woman had ever sounded so good in ecstasy. Lifting his head, he looked at her gleeful expression. Her eyes were closed, but she had a contented smile on her face. The fingers in his hair had gone lax. Was she asleep? He lightly brushed one of her erect nipples. No change. This will not do, Hermione. You'll not be falling asleep until I have been fulfilled. He kneed her legs further apart, placing himself at her entrance. Careful to keep his eyes trained on her face, he plunged in deeply. "Oh!" she gasped, eyes opening wide.

He smirked as she realized her blunder. Nonetheless, her legs snaked around his waist, pulling him closer. She tried to move with him at first, but she couldn't keep his pace. He drove in with rapid, deep upward thrusts trying to bring her back with him. "You...feel...so...good...to...me," he hissed with each thrust.

"I'm...it's not long," she said, raking her nails into his shoulders. "God...Severus!" Her walls clamped down onto him, pulling his seed out. He could feel the waves of heated fluid enveloping him. His seed eagerly mingled with her juices as he finally collapsed on top of her. The strange sentiment was back again. There were things that he wanted to say, mostly unvoiced even in his own mind. He kissed everything within reach to show her how he felt. She had pleased him again. She'd made him...feel.

"I love you," she whispered. He stilled. Not knowing how to reply, he kissed her lips softly, moving to lie beside her. How could she love him already? Was this the emotion he felt? No. It was too soon. Severus prayed he'd not offended her by not repeating her words, but he couldn't say that. He'd never say it. Not unless he meant it. Surely she would understand.

As these thoughts flew through his mind, Hermione was smiling softly. She hadn't meant to tell him that she loved him. The words had slipped out. She saw the surprise in his expression, but she didn't care. He might as well know the complete truth. The tender kiss he'd given her after her proclamation had spoken volumes to her. He felt it too. The connection. The deep feeling of something finally being right. She rested her head on his chest as his chin rested on top of her head. Sliding one knee between his legs to rest at the juncture of his thighs, she drifted off to sleep.

It seemed like only moments later that he woke her again. "Hermione, you are mine. Do you realize that?" his voice asked. It was suddenly dark in the chamber. She could barely make out his form standing near the side of the bed.

"Of course, Severus," she said sleepily, wanting to doze back off.

"I demand you make love with me now," he said sharply.

"Again?" she asked, turning more to his voice. "Why are you dressed?" How much time had passed?

"Come here, you stupid girl," he barked, pulling her by the wrists out of the bed.

She smirked realizing this was the Incubus. She could finally tell him exactly what she thought of him. "Oh, please, you don't think that you can tempt me any longer, do you?" she asked wryly. "I've made love to the real Severus Snape. He'd not be so rough with me."

His lips found her throat. "You like this. You want this. You want me. I love you," he said, trying to find the right words to convince her. She felt no pangs of desire flow through her veins at his touch.

"I do not. Be gone. I only want the man of flesh. The man whom I know to be sleeping beside me at this moment. You will never arouse me. I do not desire you," she said boldly, folding her arms over her chest.

Suddenly every lamp in the room lit in his fury. She could feel the anger flowing from his body. He was still in Severus' form, but his face was twisted in rage. "I will have you, girl," he said in a menacing voice.

"You cannot force me, Incubus! I will not give in. To force me would not bring about arousal or desire. I'll never be with you. Ever. Think you I'd not recognize my lover's touch? Off with you, spirit," she said, facing him squarely.

His black eyes molted into a shimmering green. His body reduced in height as the dark, straight hair shortened into messy hair that looked suspiciously like Harry's. Before her eyes, a lightning bolt scar appeared on the forehead. "How about now? Deny you, your best friend? Come on, Mione. Just this once. No one need know." It was Harry's voice she heard as clearly as she could see him standing before her. Had the shock not been so quick to fuddle her mind, she would have laughed before he attempted to kiss her.

"Fool," she said, removing herself from his hands. "I would never be with Harry."

The face contorted with Harry-like anger. She'd seen this expression as he faced down Voldemort. The scar began disappearing, the hair grew out into red locks, and the green faded from his eyes. "I'll always love you, Mione. Snape'll never know. How bout a quick tumble with me for old times sake?" It was Ron's pleading voice this time.

This time laughter shook her body. "Had I wanted to be with Ron, I would have. You've tried your last, haven't you?" she asked saucily. "You may as well be off, tosser!" When the Incubus lunged forward, still in Ron's form, she pulled her wand from the nightstand. "I dare you."

Shying away from her wand, with one last howl, the entity popped away. Hermione Granger bolted straight up in bed. She'd done it! She'd refused him! He'd not come back for her ever again, and if he did, she knew she could be rid of him. Severus was breathing deeply, lightly snoring actually. She smiled as she brushed a strand of his dark hair from his face. He would have a visit as well. They had been sleeping for a good while. The illusion window showed that night had indeed fallen upon then. The fire was nearly burned out. She sat patiently to watch Severus for signs of distress.

Severus was oblivious to his lover's watchful gaze. He was entranced by another vision of her dancing seductively. "I've always wanted to do this, you know," she breathed excitedly. "After I am completely undressed, I want you to take me. Take me hard."

Hang on! Hermione didn't talk that way, and she certainly wouldn't be dancing like this. He sneered at the entity before him. Succubus! Though her words and actions were most appealing, his lover hadn't gotten comfortable enough to attempt things such as these. "Is that so?" he drawled lazily. "Allow me to help you." He slid from the duvet and glided over to her.

"Yes, Severus. Yes, help me out of this dress," she purred, licking her lips.

He lowered his mouth to her ear. "Tell me, temptress, do you think that I would fall for such a seduction? You are quite amusing at best, but you've seemed to have lost the touch to make my blood boil. What could be different, I wonder?" he asked, voice full of contempt.

"I know not what you mean, Severus. I've come to pleasure you. Surely you won't turn me down. I can smell your need for me," she said with a slight snicker.

"Tell me," he hissed, "why would I want a harlot in my bed when a perfectly good maiden lay sleeping there already?" He cocked his head to the side while waiting for her reply. She appeared nervous.

"What would a man such as you find appealing about a maiden. I can do things to you that she would never dream of doing. Let me show you, Severus," she begged.

"I think not. I know the difference, and I fear that you are seriously lacking. Just the stitch of a dress that you wear, the falsely made up face, and the perfectly groomed hair is a bit of a turn off." He scoffed. "I like my Hermione as she is. You'll never be her." He flicked his hand dismissively. "Be gone before I hex you into oblivion."

He closed his eyes and counted to ten, hoping she'd be gone when he reopened them. What the...? Bellatrix Lestrange stood before him, clad in leather, her wild, glassy eyes boring into him. She was twirling a small paddle in her hand. "Come now, Sev," she said wickedly. "Did wittle Sevvie Wevvie think that lovely Bella had forgotten him? Awww...You've been a bad boy to bring that girl to your bed. I think you need to be punished."

"What game is this?" he asked disbelievingly. "This tactic never worked in all the years we served the Dark Lord. What, pray tell, makes you think this would work now. Bellatrix has never appealed to me. I like to remain in control during my coupling. Try again, if you will, Succubus. Surely, you can do better?" he asked.

A frustrated growl left her lips. He watched in fascination as her eyes began molting from black to piercing yellow. Severus began barking with laughter. "You don't think Rolanda does a thing for me?" The face before him, half Bellatrix and half Rolanda, contorted evilly.

Suddenly, the room grew very cold and breezy. The fire turned an eerie blue color. He took one step back as a piercing howl vibrated his chambers. The entity before him began molting into a new form. It was one he'd never seen. Her eyes became completely white, a shock of thick white hair grew out nearly reaching her thighs. What appeared to be wings began protruding from her back. Blood red lips smacked maliciously as if she was eyeing her next meal. Her body changed into that of a perfectly sized woman though her fingers were more like claws. Clad only in the sparsest of lingerie, she stalked forward threateningly. "I will not be denied. If there is no form you will willingly allow me to take, I shall take you in my own form."

"Good lord," he breathed. He knew a moment of fear as she pounced on him, sprawling him back to his bed. "You will never have my arousal. It's what you need, is it not?" He managed to say.

"I can easily arouse you, Severusss," she hissed, reminding him of the Dark Lord. "You are but a man, after all." A long snake-like tongue slithered from her mouth, licking the side of his face. "I taste not only your fear, but also your curiosity. You are wondering how it would feel if I impaled myself upon your thick shaft."

He shook his head vehemently. "Never, spirit. I do not desire vile, loathsome, ugly creatures," he spat. "Get off of me now, or I shall be forced to..."

"To what, Severus? You've never met a woman like me. I can overpower you easily. Just say the word, and you will know the feeling of being sheathed inside something not of this world. It's a pleasure all too sinful to not crave." He moved his head to the side as her long tongue lapped at his face.

With his lips curled in character sneer, he said distastefully, "I want no part of you. You disgust me. Leave off!" He was itching to strangle her, but he was unable to move.

"Fight her, my love," he heard Hermione saying. He could feel her light touch on his brow. "I'm here for you. I am all you need." He closed his eyes at the sound of her voice and the faint feel of her touch. His Hermione. She loved him. He knew that. She'd told him so.

"Do not listen to the child," his Succubus growled. "Resistance is futile. I will have you, willing or no."

He still could not move, save the ability to press his face closer to the invisible hand stroking his brow. "Severus, I love you. Don't let her have you. She has to have permission. You have to want her and accept her for it to work to her advantage. I love you. Come back to me."

Those words strengthened his resolve. He opened his eyes and pierced the phantom sprawled lazily above him. "Get off. I do not want you. I shall never want you. Nothing you can become would arouse me. I will not desire you in any form." The entity's teeth gnashed violently as she heard his words.

"I can force your arousal," she said confidently.

"None save for the woman I love can tempt me now. Off you go," he said, feeling the pressure of the horrid creature loosening. She was moving off of him. White, lifeless eyes met furious black ones. "You are repulsive." The last thing he saw before she spun away was a skinny, spiked tail. It lashed at his leg, cutting into his flesh painfully. With a loud pop, he was awake once again with Hermione cradling him to her.

"Severus, please wake up," she was saying softly.

"I am awake," he managed, cringing in pain. "My leg..." Hermione moved the duvet away to examine his leg.

"There is nothing," she said. "What happened?"

"She lashed out at me...with her tail before she fled. It left a large gash. I still feel the pain," he said, touching his smooth flesh. "It's...gone."

"Perhaps, since it seemed so real in the dream, your mind thinks you should still feel it," she guessed. "I have been worried. The Incubus came to me. I was able to send him away. I knew you would be visited next. For so long, you've been moving and thrashing. I was afraid that you were giving in."

"No, but I never hope to see anything so hideous again in this life," he admitted, relieved to be done with the Succubus.

"Do you want to tell me about it?" Hermione asked. "I'd like to know."

He nodded, pulling her down to lay with him again. Severus began his tale from start to finish. He left out no part except for when he told the Succubus that no woman except for the one he loved would spark his desire. He was not ready to say this yet. He needed time to think over it first. Why had he said that? Was it a reflexive reaction to the words he had been hearing? Did he truly love her? So soon?

Hermione listened attentively to his entire dream before beginning her own story. He was shocked that the creature hadn't changed into its true form with Hermione, but it did make sense. The entity fully believed that he, Severus Snape, would be the weaker party. It thought he would give in. You are but a man. He smiled wryly. A man with a wonderful woman at his side. She had given him hope where he almost had none. For that he would be eternally grateful.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

Severus eased out of bed to go to the loo. He'd not dare admit it, but his leg was still sore from the Succubus' lashing the night before. Feeling the need to keep the weight off of his injured leg, he limped to the bathroom. Once there, he ran his hands along his leg. Nothing appeared on the surface, but he could feel a tinge of pain from the kneading of his hands. What had the creature done to him? Was it in his mind as Hermione suggested? He would have to talk to Albus about this. Though this was from a rare creature, there were sure to be other reported wounds that occurred from dreams. Yes, there would be a little research needed, but he'd be back to form in no time.

Meanwhile his thoughts drifted to Hermione. This was the second night that he'd spent with her, and he could only look forward to many more. How had he slept alone for so many years? It seemed comforting to have a soft body pressed tightly to his own. He smiled suddenly. She loved him. How did he feel about her? He cared. Startled by this honest thought, he sat down to think further. He'd never allow anything to harm her, nor would he be willing to allow her to leave him now that he knew what it was like to be loved by her. He did like her. She was infuriatingly compatible to him. All it would take would be a little more time, and he'd likely love her.

Unexpectedly, he frowned. He was a hard man to live with, not that he had experience cohabiting with anyone. Things needed to be a certain way-his way. Could she handle that? Would she soon be scurrying back to Potter and Weasley? No, she was strong. She had faced an incubus and won. She had seeped in through the cracks in his defenses. Hermione made him feel again. They would have to make the most of the time they had left until the students came back to get to know each other. He vowed to try his best to be more of a pleasant man in her company. His Slytherin nature took over as a smirk slid to replace his smile. Should she not find his lifestyle adequate, he knew exactly how to keep her with him. She could deny an Incubus her body, but she would never be able to deny him. All I need to do is ask. He went off to drink a mild, pain relieving potion for the ache in his leg before ordering breakfast for two.

Hermione woke to the smell of bangers and toast. "Mmmm. I am famished!"

"I thought you might be, as we seemed to have missed dinner last evening," Severus said softly. "Here you are," he said, handing her a robe that he'd found amongst her things in the wardrobe that had been delivered. He hadn't been sifting through her clothing. No, he'd only been searching for something to set out for her. Never mind the interesting little nightie that he'd seen. Who had she bought that for? Had anyone seen her in it save her dorm mates? It was highly unlikely, but he wondered all the same. Had she ever wanted to sleep with someone? Had she intended to be with Weasley at some point? What were her dreams for the future before she found out that he was her future? These were all things that he longed to know.

"Thanks," she said, accepting the robe. "Oh, I see my things are here. I'll go through and organize them later."

"There is no rush, Hermione. Come," he said smoothly, holding out a hand to her after she bashfully donned her clothing. They ate with gusto in companionable silence. Each had thoughts invading their minds.

Hermione noted that he seemed troubled by something. She hoped it wasn't her presence. Certainly now that they were rid of their nightly stalkers he would not begin to wish her gone, would he? "Is something amiss?" she asked after drinking her juice.

"And, why, may I ask, would you think that?" he countered, sipping coffee.

"You seem...distant."

"I do not wish to be distant. I am only taking time to savor my morning silence. I-"

She interrupted. "Point taken, Severus. I'll shush until you want to talk."

He raised an eyebrow. "If I may finish?" he asked acridly. She nodded. "As I was trying to say, I shall need to get used to having another person here for the time being though it's not quite displeasing."

"Oh," she said blushing prettily. "Sorry. I just assumed that you meant for me to keep quiet. How do you feel this morning?"

Feel. I feel many things. "Rested to be honest. Sated as well. I am glad that we are rid of our foes. You?"

"Sated would be an understatement. I feel triumphant as well. It's as if I could take on the world at this moment." She smiled beatifically. "I feel so free."

He gave her a small smile in return. "I feel lighter as well." After a pause, "Hermione, about this," he waggled a finger between the two, "are you prepared to deal with the repercussions? The students will be returning soon. Due to my actions prior to the holiday break, I fear there may be distasteful rumors about us."

She thought for a moment. "Severus, I don't care. The lot can think what they'd like. The only ones who truly matter to me know the truth. Can...can you handle any accusations?"

"Indeed," he said smugly. "I've never worried on what the students think of me. In fact, the more immoral they believe me to be, the better. Fear brings with it obedience. A lesson you will do well to remember once you've begun instructing."

"I think you get more flies with honey if you know what I mean."

"No. Explain."

"It's a Muggle expression. The nicer you are, the more they'll respond to you," she explained.

"You think so?" he questioned, not waiting for an answer. "Hermione, you aren't experienced enough to see it yet, but you shall once you've gained years. These students, not much unlike your own friends, try what they can to skive off of their studies. Any excuse is acceptable if it entails getting out of work. If you demand their attention and completed assignments ruthlessly, they have no choice. If you coddle them, you will not be helping them. In the end, you will be trampled on, and no one will appreciate your hard work."

"I'd not thought of that before," she admitted.

"Minerva teaches by this method as well. Have you not noticed that she commands her class much in the fashion that I do?" he prodded.

"Well, she's not as...rude about it, and she doesn't exactly show favoritism to only Gryffindor as I've seen you do with Slytherin. I think you are unfair in some things," she said softly, hoping she hadn't angered him too greatly.

He simply smirked. "Since the defeat of the Dark Lord have I been as unfair to other Houses?"

"Not exactly, now that I think of it."

"My methods in the classroom shall not change, but I will now take points where I see fit from any House, including my own. There is no need for favoring my House." He put down his cup, reached over to take her hand. "It's only advice. You do not have to follow it."

"I've always respected you, even though you've been unfair. Perhaps I should rethink my planned instructing methods now that I've seen your point," she said thoughtfully.

They began a long talk about her plans. He questioned her on things, and she answered honestly. He gave her honest opinions, never sugarcoating anything, and she, in turn, bluntly told him what she thought. Before they were through, he had a new respect for her ideas. He could understand now where he may have intimidated Longbottom too much in class. Perhaps in the future, he may try not to be so harsh, but when a student was as inept as that one, it was hard to have patience. Extra detention should suffice as a means for those types to practice their less than desirable potions making skills. As he stood to seek his shower, Hermione called to him.

"Yes?"

"Severus, I...I am not on The Potion, you know," she admitted, lowering her lashes. "I've only just thought about it. Shouldn't we be careful?"

Bloody hell! He'd thought of nothing along the lines of precaution either. His mind had been firmly set on getting into her knickers. He'd only just gotten used to the idea of possibly sharing his life with someone, he didn't need the added worry of having another little someone intruding on his life. "I think it would be wise for us to take the necessary precautions. I apologize, Hermione. As the experienced party, I should have thought of this matter before."

"No, it's happened so fast for us. I don't blame you. Perhaps I should be off to see Madame Pomfrey all the same," she said, relieved that he'd not accused her of purposely forgetting to take a potion.

"Would you like me to accompany you?" he asked, hoping she'd decline.

"No, it's not necessary. I'll stop in on Madame Pince as well. I'd like to check out a few books," she said with a smile. She could access all books in the library now. There was no Restricted Section to be had for her!

"I would like to speak with Albus about our encounters last night. I can do that whilst you are out," he said, brushing a finger along her cheek.

"How is your leg? All thoughts of it gone?" she asked, feeling guilty about not remembering sooner. She'd been privately pleased in her ability to dispel her stalker, and in the role she had played with Severus' encounter. He'd admitted that her voice and touches had soothed him, enabling him to thwart the advances.

"It's..." He didn't want to lie to her. "Well, I would like to speak with Albus about it. I did still feel something this morning. Don't worry on it," he said softly.

She watched him go and noted that he had a slight hobble to his gait. He was trying to cover up his pain! The Restricted Section took on an entirely different meaning for her. Muttering cleaning charms on her body, she dressed quickly. She hadn't time to waste on a real bath. She had some reading to do.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

"Ah, Severus," Albus greeted. "I wondered when you would turn up. How are you and our young Hermione faring? Neither of you have been to see Poppy yet for battle wounds. I take that as a good sign."

The jovial voice had Severus smirking. The man could find entertainment in anything, couldn't he? "We are as fine as can be, Albus. I came to talk to you about our visitors. Mostly, it is the Succubus form that I think may interest you."

Albus' eyes lost their twinkle, noting the younger wizard's grave expression. "Leave nothing out then, my boy. What's happened?"

Severus relayed what Hermione had told him first. Albus nodded, figuring that the entity would try to take on other forms to coerce her if Severus' form ultimately provoked no response from her. He was inwardly proud of the young witch's ability to stand on her own in the face of such dreadfulness. Unease settled over him as he began listening to Severus' tale. The Succubus had showed her true form! She sounded much like men had described in the past. He blinked rapidly at what he'd just heard. "Her tail sliced into your leg, you say?"

"Yes," Severus said, pulling up his robes. "Just there," he said, pointing to the shin of his left leg. "Upon checking this morning, I've noticed no irritation. No abrasion of any kind. But, what does plague me is that it still pains me. I have taken a pain relieving potion, of course, but I still tend to favor the leg."

"Curious," Albus commented. This did not bode well for his young friend. He'd heard of injuries caused in dreams, but most of those had been visible even after the person woke. There was nothing on Severus' leg to show that anything had happened. Normal healing salves, counter hexes, and other methods had been used to repair the wounds. How does one heal what one cannot see? "I shall have to consult with someone on this, Severus. I am afraid that I do not have an answer for you. Is it unbearable?"

"No, it feels like a normal cut to me though nothing is visible. In my dream, the pain was much worse, but its not so bad now," he stated dryly. "I will do some reading on this as well. I had only hoped you may have had an idea about it."

"A few thoughts are coming to mind, but I'd like not to disclose them until I can speak with an old friend," Albus said mysteriously, giving Severus a small smile.

"Very well, Headmaster, I shall leave you to your own devices." Severus strode towards the door before stopping. "Hermione and I may not be at lunch or dinner this evening. I'd like to show her something, so we may be out of the castle."

"Not a problem, Severus. Enjoy the holiday. We'll handle what's here, my boy," Albus said heartily. Once the door was closed, he called for Fawkes. After scribbling a short note, he told his faithful phoenix, "Bring this to our old friend, Paracelsus. He'll have an idea of what we are dealing with. I'm sure of it." Fawkes nodded in understanding before disappearing in a burst of flames.

~~~~~~~~ HG ~~~~~~~~~ SS ~~~~~~~~~~

"Where can she be?" Severus asked aloud for the tenth time. She had been gone since that morning. He'd been back in his chambers for nearly two hours. He checked his bedroom again to be sure that none of her personal effects were missing and began pacing anew. Did Poppy have unwelcome news for her? There was no way to be sure that she was with child so soon, so that couldn't be it. Ah! Of course! The ruddy library. Why hadn't he thought of it sooner? She was likely to be lost in some tome or another. Should he approach her? No. He didn't want to appear too clingy. He would wait her out. There were things he could be doing in his laboratory after all.

A breathless Hermione met him at the door. "Severus," she panted. "I have something to show you." She was clutching on old book to her chest while trying to steady her breathing. "Your leg..." She pointed to the book.

"You've been using your free time to find information about the injury I sustained?" he asked in disbelief. The thoughtfulness of it was disconcerting. He should have been doing the same, yet he'd taken to worrying on her whereabouts. It was amazing, however, that she cared so much for him.

"Of course. I haven't found out much except for a few things. There is much here about magical injuries from dreams, but most have visible lacerations, burn marks, welts, and the like. There is a small section just here," she said opening the book to the back section, "which shows documentation of those occurring with no visible proof of it having transpired."

Severus took the book from her to read the meager information. "Ludicrous," he bellowed suddenly. "This entry says that the wounded witch had previous mental anxiety. They dared to believe it was all in her mind?"

"Well, that's only one entry. Read on," Hermione said, slightly stung that he'd not read into it as she had.

Reading over the remaining entries, he closed the book. "They suggest I treat it as a normal wound until it disappears. Either that or seek council about my misfortunate nightmares." He scoffed. "These were not normal dreams. Why, it sounds here as if they believe some of these to have been only hallucinations!"

"I only thought these would be some things to think on. Some are not so far fetched, you know!" Hermione said heatedly.

"Well, I, for one, have never been an Oneirophobic person. Dreams do not scare me, my dear. The only fear I have, should you decide to call it that, is of the unknown. These suggestions are not mental, nor are they hallucinations," he reiterated hotly.

"Good grief, Severus. I am not accusing you of anything here. I was only trying to help. This is the only book that had such entries that I could find. If you'd like I could go back, to check more stacks," she said quickly, hoping to calm his temper. Quite touchy about his situation, he was!

He stilled momentarily. "I am not angry with you, Hermione. It's the bloody situation that I do not like. It's quite possible that I am making something out of nothing."

That was all the apology and thanks that she would receive. She dared not ask for anything further. "Coming from Muggle parents, I have read about these things before. Sometimes a mind can be a nasty, little bugger. Hopefully, that's not the case here." She smiled warmly. "I didn't mean to imply that you were mentally weak. I only meant to show you what others did to help. Does your leg still hurt?"

"It's fine for the moment."

"How so? Did the ache just vanish then?"

"Well, no. I've taken two doses of a pain relieving potion." He paused mid stride as a smug smile tugged at her lips. "What is it?"

"Severus, you are treating it even though it's not there. That is not far off from some of what we've read here. Perhaps we should go as far as to apply some healing salve," she said, backing away as his eyes narrowed.

"We shall see. For now, I have something to attend to in my laboratory," he said curtly, not glancing back. If he had, he would have seen the broad grin on his young lover's face. He knew she was right! He just wouldn't admit it. She went off to take a hot bath.

A knock on the door woke her from a light doze. She had more than enough bubbles still to cover her body, so she felt no qualms about having him enter. "Come in," she called.

"Are you all right? You've been in here for a long time," he said with mild concern.

"I had a bit of a nap I'm afraid. What've you got there?" she asked, nodding to the tumbler in his hand.

He looked down to the glass. "I thought that perhaps you would like some pumpkin juice. I've taken the liberty to order a late lunch. After we've eaten, I'd like to show you something."

"That's very thoughtful of you. I'll have it then," she said, reaching for the tumbler. Before she clasped it firmly in her hand, he kissed her lips quickly.

"I'll be in the study," he said, making a hasty retreat.

She sipped on her juice while sweet thoughts passed through her mind. This was his idea of making up with her. He'd likely wanted to yell at her earlier, but he had restrained from doing so. Now that time had passed, he was hoping that this small gesture would make amends for their little misunderstanding. She'd have to explain to him that she was not put out by his temper, and though she appreciated the gesture, he need not feel as though he can't be himself with her. She had walked into this with her eyes wide open. She loved his snarky attitude as much as she loved his softer side. She'd not like to see either overpower the other. Both mingled made for a most impressive man. A man she loved more than she'd ever thought possible.

As quickly as possible, she made her way to the study. Walking up behind him, she put her arms around his neck and placed a kiss on his head. "Thanks for the juice, but you didn't have to do that," she murmured.

"It was nothing," he said quietly.

"Thanks all the same. Please don't feel the need to coddle me, Severus. I love you as you are. Temper included." Not giving him a chance to speak, she deftly changed the subject. "I felt like having fruits. Wise choice!"

"At this hour, I didn't think we should have our appetites for dinner spoilt," he said. "You should dress warmly. We'll be leaving the castle for what I'd like to show you."

"Where are we going?" she asked eagerly.

"You will see, Little One," he said mysteriously.

After eating and dressing as instructed, they walked, holding hands to her delight, to the front gates. "I'll Apparate us," he said, pulling her close. She snuggled to him as they cracked away. Feeling slightly disoriented, she held onto him for an extra moment when they appeared at their destination. "All right?" he asked. She nodded.

"We're in Britain?" she questioned.

"Yes," he said with a reticent smile.

She looked around. They were in the front yard of a modest home. The grounds were well kempt. Large trees loomed about at strategic points. "It's beautiful. Whom are we visiting?"

"It's my home," he said softly. "This is what I have left from my family after my father drank away most of my inheritance. He lost the title to the manor house I grew up in, but he couldn't lose this one. This was willed to me by my mother's family."

She could see that it had cost him a great deal to admit this to her. "Well, I'm glad that he couldn't touch what was rightfully yours. It's lovely."

He nodded. "Yes, it's fine when I feel the need to leave the castle. Hogwarts, though, is more of a home to me now. This is not what I wanted to show you, Hermione. There is something that I think you would appreciate more than this pile of stone." She was about to protest, but he pulled her forward on a small path near the side of the house. They walked in silence.

Hermione sensed he needed this time to think about what he had told her. Severus was a very private man. The conversation they'd had that morning had proved that to her. He asked her many questions about her plans, her family, and even her friends, but he had skirted most of her inquiries. She didn't mind much. He'd come around in time when he felt more comfortable with her. Only a short time had passed since they'd been sprung together after all.

After walking up a steep incline, they reached the crest of a hill. "Close your eyes for a moment," he said softly. She obeyed and felt him guide her a short way. "Ah, they are still here." She felt his lips on hers briefly before he said, "You may open them now."

She peered around. In a clearing below, she saw the most amazing creatures grazing languidly. "Severus! Is this a herd of Aethonons?"

He smiled broadly. "I thought you would like them. They have been here for as long as I can remember. My grandparents have protective wards so that no one can happen upon them. They live here in peace from the prying eyes of Muggles and poachers."

"I've never seen one before. I never thought that I would. There was a picture of a foal in a book that I had read, but this is breathtaking." She gazed adoringly at a group of nearly thirty winged horses. Each having a coat of chestnut in color, and their wings were made of some furry yet feathery mixture. They didn't look very sturdy. "How can those wings keep an Aethonon up in flight?"

"They can't make long flights. They are mainly used to ease them from one spot in a pasture to another. In some cases, I suppose it helps them out of a tight spot when a predator lurks nearby."

Without warning, she pounced on Severus, nearly toppling him over. Hugging him tightly, she kissed him thoroughly. Breaking away after a few dizzying moments, she said softly, "They are beautiful. Thank you for sharing them with me. I love this."

"I am enjoying myself as well." He swallowed. "What did Poppy have to say this morning?"

She grinned. "We are safe. She could tell that I've already ovulated this month. I'm afraid it's nearly time for...another type of visitor."

Severus grinned at her choice of words. "I daresay, a more welcome one than the one you've been having?"

"Very much so. I'm not ready for our children just yet. I want to enjoy my time alone with you first," she said happily, kissing him deeply.

His mind began to work in overtime. Children? Just yet! She was planning on having a brood from the sound of it! He'd have to talk to her about that later. He'd never expected to become a...father. He shuddered involuntarily.

"I know. I feel it too," she murmured, kissing his neck gently. He allowed her to think that an emotion had caused him to shudder. This was not the time to set her straight. As she said, he wanted to enjoy time alone with her.

Southern's Notes: We'll find out more on Severus' leg, Hermione's parents, and see a chat with friends.