5- Overture
Chapter 5 of 84
Good_WitchThe first cast meeting is afoot. Dumbledore makes his position clear on supposed personality conflicts and leaves Snape and Hermione to work things out like adults.
ReviewedStandard Disclaimer goes here.
New Disclaimer goes here: It was brought to my attention that another HP/POTO crossover fic is on AFF.net. I would like to state for the record that I have not seen that story, and any similarities that may exist are purely coincidental. I would love to read that story, but I am refraining from doing so until I finish mine, so I don't inadvertently borrow from it.
Chapter 5- Overture
The buzz in the Great Hall was louder than normal during dinner. The students who were in the cast were the subject of much attention. The Gryffindor table was particularly raucous since so many of their lot were chosen. At the High Table, Minerva McGonagall kept casting a stern eye at her House, in an attempt to quiet them at least a little bit. They would obediently muffle themselves to a dull roar, until high spirits caused their volume to increase again.
"Oh, let them talk, Minerva. It's not every day that something of this nature happens at Hogwarts. They're excited, and I for one am very glad they are so enthusiastic." Dumbledore smiled indulgently at her over his spectacles. Her expression softened for a moment as she smiled, then she scowled again as she heard a particularly loud shriek of laughter from the Gryffindors.
"I know, Albus, but I certainly don't want to have to put up with Severus's sarcastic comments about their behaviour, especially after our wager this morning," she whispered.
He chuckled at this and cast a sly glance at Snape on his other side. After his altercation at breakfast with Trelawney, Snape had elected to skip lunch in the Great Hall. Dumbledore laughed to himself as he remembered the palpable relief of the student body when they saw Snape's seat empty. Snape was currently sitting stiffly in his chair, alternating between staring moodily at his plate and glowering at the students with his trademark sour expression.
Albus silently thanked Minerva for the unexpected boon of her wager idea. Anything that could help manage Severus and his prickly behaviour was sincerely appreciated. He loved the man like a son, and respected him a great deal, but he did get tired of his taciturn manner.
At the other end of the table, beyond Minerva, Sybill Trelawney was breathily recounting her vision of being cast, waving her jewelled fingers about. Professor Sprout was beside her, listening with a glazed expression and a forced smile. Professor Vector merely offered up a noncommittal grunt of acknowledgement at suitable intervals, steadily eating, looking everywhere but at Trelawney.
Dumbledore sighed softly, realizing that this venture was going to be quite a volatile one.
As dinner wore on, students began leaving, but the cast remained, waiting for the meeting to start at 7:00. Eventually, when all but the people on cast were gone, Dumbledore stood and addressed them.
"Would you please step forward toward the High Table..."
As the students hastened from their seats, Dumbledore waved his wand and the House tables disappeared. A circle of chairs materialized in the centre of the room.
"Please, have a seat," he said, gesturing toward the circle.
Students scrambled for chairs, trying to sit by their friends. When they were all seated, there were empty chairs on both sides of the Slytherins, separating them from the other students. Professor Trelawney took one of the seats, between Millicent Bulstrode and Lavender Brown. Lavender beamed with pleasure. There were three empty seats between Draco and Terry Boot. Draco sat with a haughty expression, trying to look as if he preferred to be ostracized. The three professors walked to them and filled the large empty spot. Snape sat beside Draco, deciding that as Head of Slytherin he should present a unified front. Dumbledore sat by him and Minerva on his other side, just like at the High Table.
Dumbledore stood and looked around the circle fondly. "I can't tell you how pleased I am to have you all here. This is going to be a wonderful experience, I'm sure, for all of us." He briefly flicked a glance to Snape at his side. As his gaze circled again, he saw Hermione Granger staring at Snape with a very determined look on her face. He chortled inwardly. I see Miss Granger has made up her mind not to let Severus get to her. Good girl! I daresay she'll be quite the match for the dear boy. Before he could continue, Harry's hand shot up from where he sat beside Hermione. Dumbledore blinked at the scowl on Harry's face and noticed that it, too, was directed at Snape.
"Yes, Mr. Potter? Do you have a question?"
"Yes sir. Can any changes be made to the cast at this point?"
"Whatever do you mean?"
"Well, sir, I mean, did the Sorting Hat choose other people, you know, like second choices for any of the parts?"
Snape's eyes narrowed on Harry, and they snapped with sudden interest. He sat perfectly still, tensely awaiting Dumbledore's answer.
Sounding slightly offended, Dumbledore responded, "No, Mr. Potter. There are no second choices. The Sorting Hat was to choose the best people available for the roles, and it did so. All of you are here as a result. I did tell you at the beginning that this was an obligation to be taken quite seriously. No changes can be made at this point. You are the best cast, so you will be performing. You will receive your rehearsal schedules shortly. But first, I have a few announcements to make." He watched Harry, Hermione, and Ron exchange dark looks before Hermione sat up even straighter in her chair, setting her lips in a dignified line and looking coolly across the circle at Snape.
Once Dumbledore began his answer, Snape felt his fragile hope shatter. He cursed to himself at the absurdity of the whole situation again, and looked around the circle under hooded lids.
Hostile glares were being shot across the circle between the Gryffindors and the Slytherins to his right. Snape noticed that Trelawney was watching Dumbledore, completely rapt. Beyond her, Lavender Brown and Parvati Patil were listening intently, almost vibrating in their chairs with excitement. Beside them, Luna Lovegood gazed up at Dumbledore with her bulging blank eyes, her normal unflappable self. To her right were Dean Thomas and Seamus Finnegan, long gangly legs sprawled in front of them, leaning their chairs back on the rear legs. Snape grimaced at them and they came down with a bang, looking abashed. They sat up straight and focused on Dumbledore, avoiding Snape's eyes.
Snape's gaze slid to Harry, who was brashly glaring at him, as if in challenge. Snape's lip curled and he favoured Harry with a particularly contemptuous look before pointedly looking away, dismissing him as unimportant.
Then he locked eyes with Hermione Granger. The determination in her eyes was unmistakable. Snape remembered the battle of wills they had during the feast and felt his ire rise at her superior attitude.
Hermione felt her pulse race as she locked eyes with Snape. She watched as his speculative gaze smouldered into indignant anger. The force of his personality buffeted her, like a separate entity. She repeated a mantra in her head, You won't cow me. I'm not afraid of you. You won't cow me. I'm not afraid of you.
So, she thinks she can win this little challenge, does she? She obviously does not know the real Severus Snape. She will find out. And she will rue the day she ever thought she could measure up to me, Snape thought ominously.
While this exchange was going on, Dumbledore had turned to his chair and snapped his fingers. A tall stack of bound scripts appeared. He picked them up and began walking around the circle, handing them out, starting with Minerva.
"These are your scripts. They contain everything you will need to learn for this production. Your actions are described in the stage directions; your dialogue is written; and your songs are included, with the appropriate music."
He paused as he extended a script to Hermione, who didn't notice, so absorbed was she in her defiance of Snape.
"Miss Granger?"
Hermione wrenched her gaze from Snape's and snapped her head up. Sheepishly, she reached for her script. "Sorry, sir."
Dumbledore contented himself with a nod as he continued. Hermione sat, staring at her script, cheeks flaming. She realized she hadn't even been listening to Dumbledore. She kept her eyes down, focusing on the headmaster's speech; so she missed Snape's sneer of amused triumph.
Ha! I knew she would look away first. Look at her, now she won't even look at me again. Pathetic. So much for the vaunted Gryffindor bravery.
Dumbledore handed out the rest of the scripts and stood before his chair again, saying, "I will be creating a rehearsal schedule, which will be posted on the notice board. Rehearsals will most often be held here; but at times you may be asked to practice on your own. Generally, these groups will include a faculty member, so I know I can trust them to actually practice..." He looked sternly over his spectacles at the students assembled, who grinned at him. "We will transform the Great Hall into the theatre space required for each rehearsal. Now..." He sat down and raised a hand in acknowledgement. "I know that many of you are very busy, what with lessons and N.E.W.T.s and Quidditch..." Here he smiled at the increased interest on Harry's, Ron's, Ginny's, and Draco's faces. "So, I will endeavour to keep rehearsals to a reasonable expectation until we get closer to the performance date. You will, of course, be expected to learn your lines and songs as quickly as possible."
At the mention of songs, Colin Creevey's hand slowly raised.
"Yes, Mr. Creevey?"
"Sir, you mentioned something before about a spell that can make us sing well...?" His voice cracked nervously and he blushed. Draco smothered a snigger.
Dumbledore nodded jovially. "Yes, I did. There is a wonderful spell that, when cast, will allow the subject to sing in perfect pitch, but will also use the natural voice. It is a very helpful spell in situations such as this, wouldn't you agree?" He chuckled aloud as several heads nodded vigorously around him. He saw Ron's anxious expression and gestured to him.
"Mr. Weasley, you look as if you're dubious about this spell."
Ron looked startled, and squeaked, "Me? Uh, no sir, I'm sure it's brilliant."
Dumbledore pointed his wand at Ron and firmly stated, "Suaviloquentia."
"Please turn to your character's first song, Mr. Weasley."
Ron quickly thumbed through his script to his part.
"Now, please read the lines you see there."
"Damnable! Will they all walk out? This is damnable..." Ron's eyes bugged out and the others present all gasped in astonishment at the resonant tones of Ron's voice. Dumbledore beamed at them, smug with satisfaction.
"Thank you Mr. Weasley, that'll do. I trust you no longer have doubts of the efficacy of the spell?"
Ron gulped, stunned. "No sir. That was amazing."
"Excellent. Finite Incantatem. Of course, you may sing on your own if you prefer..." He paused, then continued in a mock whisper, "...unless you're so terrible that I must enchant you." A ripple of laughter ran through the cast. "How many of you sing?"
Several hands were raised: Pansy, Justin, Terry, Susan, Professor McGonagall, and Hermione.
Dumbledore gave Minerva an appraising look and said, jokingly, "Let me amend that to: How many of you sing well?" He winked at the group as Minerva swatted at him with an indignant squawk. Several people laughed.
Snape rolled his eyes in utter boredom. How much longer is he going to drag this out? This is abominable!
"Well, I have something else to give you to aid you in your practice." He waved his wand and a table full of small ornate boxes appeared. He stood and lifted one.
"This is a music box that has been enchanted to play the original recording from the cast in London. I want you all to take the time to listen to your recording carefully so you can hear the complete production. You'll find as you read your parts that many times you will be overlapping with others while singing, which can be confusing. So, pay close attention to what you hear and follow along in your scripts. If you learn to sing along with these music boxes, you will undoubtedly find it easier to remember your parts. We will have bewitched instruments to play for us during performances, but there is a dial on these music boxes that will allow you to turn down the voices but keep the music, so you can practice with your singing as well. For now, bring these with you to rehearsal, so they will be available for practice." With that, he passed the music boxes around to everyone. He flicked his hand and the empty table disappeared.
"I recommend you take the opportunity as soon as you can to read the entire script and listen to the recording. I expect you to have come to some decisions about your characterization by the time we next meet. Think about your characters. Who are they? Where do they come from? What makes them tick? What are their likes and dislikes? Why are they in the position they are in this play? How do they feel? What are their personalities like? You must answer these questions and more to build your characterization and give it life." He paused to let his words sink in.
"This is a very important event for Hogwarts. It is a step toward our future. I trust you will all treat this with the gravity required, but still enjoy the thrill of being the first to win this new competition." He looked at everyone keenly, the challenge clear in his gaze and voice.
There was a rustle as people shifted in their seats, sitting up straighter, proud to be involved. Many students exchanged anticipatory glances, eager to proceed.
"Now, I daresay this is enough for our first meeting. You now have all of the materials you should require. If you wish to be enchanted to sing, we will do that at your first rehearsal. Be sure to check the notice board daily for any changes to the schedule." He stood, and the students stood with him.
"Enjoy the rest of your weekend, and congratulations again for being an integral part of Hogwarts' history!" He clasped his hands in front of him, smiling benevolently on his charges as they gathered their scripts and music boxes and separated into groups as they began to exit. The professors rose. Trelawney was besieged by Lavender and Parvati. McGonagall stepped toward Ginny, amused that she was to play her daughter. Snape sighed, exasperated, and turned to leave.
"Professor Snape, I beg your pardon, would you remain a moment?"
Snape stopped, grimaced, and turned around with a long-suffering look.
"Excuse me, Miss Granger, Mr. Potter, would you join us for a moment? Everyone else is dismissed."
Ron shrugged, perplexed, at Harry and Hermione. They turned equally baffled looks on him and waved. Watching as the rest of the cast departed, Harry and Hermione stood in front of Dumbledore. Snape stood off to one side, arms crossed in front of him, as usual, attempting an air of indifference. He was irritated enough that he wasn't completely successful. Dumbledore waved his wand again and all but four chairs disappeared.
"Please, sit." He gestured to the chairs, and Harry and Hermione sat, curious. Snape affected a look of disdain and flung his cloak behind the back before he sank down, to lean back languidly.
Dumbledore began, "I wanted to speak to you three in particular. You all have very important roles, and they will require much dedication and discipline on your part. I am also aware of the fact that there may be some... tension... among you." Snape snorted and Harry and Hermione scowled at him.
"I want to impress upon you the fact that I will not tolerate anything but a professional attitude from you all."
Hermione spoke up. "Certainly, sir. We are all adults here..." Snape snorted again at this. "...at least, some of us are," she continued scornfully.
Snape whipped around, shooting up straight in his chair and glaring at her, about to take points off for impertinence, but Dumbledore interrupted.
"That is precisely what I mean! I know you young people have tempers that run hot, but you must refrain from childish comments that only serve to antagonize one another!" He looked pointedly at Hermione, who had the grace to blush, ashamed.
"I'm sorry, Headmaster."
"Now then, if we are all clear on that matter..." Dumbledore paused and looked expectantly at each of them. Harry nodded solemnly and Hermione nodded, schooling her expression into polite attention. Snape, however, was scowling balefully at the students. After a beat, he realized that Dumbledore was waiting for him to respond. He quickly looked over to the man, noting the implacable glint in his eye. Stiffly, Snape inclined his head a fraction. Dumbledore briskly bounced his hands on his knees and said, "Excellent. Now, Mr. Potter, you are dismissed. Miss Granger, Professor Snape, I require but a brief moment more of your time."
Harry stood, casting a distressed look at Hermione. She offered him a reassuring smile and nodded, indicating she was fine. He nodded to the older men, "Headmaster. Professor," and exited.
When he was gone, Dumbledore turned to Hermione and Snape. They were levelling grim gazes at each other.
Sighing, he began in an impatient tone, "All right, both of you, that's enough."
Hermione started at the unusual note in his voice and looked at Dumbledore, surprised. Snape watched her look away and then turned his attention to the headmaster.
When he had their attention, Dumbledore continued. "There will undoubtedly be friction among cast members. However, your roles are the focus of the entire play, and you must learn to look past your ill will and act the parts you have been given. That means that you have to get over yourselves and pretend to tolerate each other for the good of the production." The intensity in his voice surprised Hermione.
He must really want to win this competition, if he's this worked up about it.
She spoke up earnestly. "Headmaster, Professor Snape and I are fully aware of your dedication to this venture, and I assure you, you will have no cause for worry."
Snape turned to her with an aggrieved expression, but Dumbledore spoke before he could.
"Yes, yes, of course, my dear. I'm sure you're right. Now, as I've made myself perfectly clear, I will leave you two to work this out like adults." He smiled and patted their shoulders before turning and leaving. Hermione watched him go. Once he disappeared around the corner, Snape's presence hit her forcefully. She looked back to find Snape pinning her with an icy stare.
"How dare you presume to speak for me," he hissed.
Hermione's anger flared and her eyes lit up. "Obviously, Professor, the headmaster is extremely invested in this. I thought it only appropriate to offer him reassurance."
Snape's lip curled. "I can speak for myself, silly girl..."
Hermione interrupted recklessly, "I am not a silly girl! As I said before, we are adults here; and the headmaster left us here to work things out like adults."
Incensed at her interruption, Snape leant toward her menacingly. "Don't interrupt me! You insufferable child, you are not an adult, so don't even dare to compare yourself with me!"
Hermione saw the fire in his eyes and felt her stomach flip nervously, but she refused to back down, especially since Snape was wrong!
"Forgive me, Professor, but you are mistaken. I am eighteen. I am an adult."
Snape narrowed his eyes and said silkily, "Miss Granger, I am not a fool, and I do know how to count. You are in your seventh year here, therefore you cannot be older than seventeen."
Hermione felt a shiver slide down her spine at his low, hypnotic voice, but steeled herself. With commendable poise, she retorted, "If my case were the usual, sir, you would be correct. However, I gained an extra year through my use of a time turner in third year. Therefore, I am now eighteen, and a legal adult for all intents and purposes."
Snape recoiled slightly, taken aback. He threw her a black look and sat back, crossing his arms. He sulked, hating the fact that the Know-It-All was actually right, and he had been mistaken. Severus Snape was not used to being wrong. It didn't sit well with him.
Hermione allowed herself a fleeting moment of triumph before she quelled it and mustered up all of her professionalism.
"Professor..."
Snape simply gazed at her coldly, not deigning to answer.
"Professor, please. This isn't such a tragedy. The play is really quite sad and beautiful. Please give it a chance. It's very important to Dumbledore, and I know you could be just as impressive in this as you are in everything else if you allowed yourself to appreciate it."
Snape heard the sincerity in her voice and was slightly mollified. She thinks I'm impressive? How very astounding... Then his natural paranoia reared its ugly head and he scoffed at her words.
"Miss Granger, I am not susceptible to flattery. Do not lie to me, it is most unbecoming."
Hermione bridled at this, stung. "Sir, I am not lying. Your vast knowledge of your craft is impressive, and who could forget all you did for the Order, for the final victory over the Dark Lord? Without you, our losses would surely have been much greater. Not many people could have done what you did for so many years. That alone is quite admirable," she said earnestly.
Snape again remembered her words after the Final Battle: "I happen to care about everyone who helped defeat Voldemort, including you, whether you believe it or not!" And now she was calling him admirable. He saw the candour in her eyes. It made him slightly uncomfortable.
He looked at her suspiciously, but she returned his gaze frankly. He contented himself with a noncommittal "Hmph."
Shaken from his usual acerbic pose, Snape looked at the girl who had managed to discomfit him twice in as many minutes. He really looked at her, past the superficial veneer of know-it-all consort of The-Boy-Who-Makes-My-Life-Hell, beyond the façade of intellectual bookworm. He suddenly realized that she was right.
She was not a child any longer.
Her eyes held wisdom beyond her years, and she had bloomed into the flush of womanhood. The childlike rounding of her face had melted away into the cheek boned planes of an adult. Her overly large teeth had changed. Now they were even and white, and perfectly suited to her. Even her hair had calmed down considerably from the wild mass of flyaway curls she had when she first appeared at Hogwarts. She held herself with grace and aplomb, far above the gawky movements of her fellow classmates. Even her determination to avoid childish sparring with him and to maintain her position as his equal was something he had not experienced before with a student.
The wheels in his brain turned incessantly as he contemplated the young woman he was about to have to spend far too much time with.
Hermione felt like she was prey to his intensely probing gaze. She watched his eyes travel all over her face, felt it as they swept over her body. Her heart pounded, and her palms began to sweat as she sensed the change in his scrutiny of her person. Spasms of nervousness travelled along her spine and through her stomach. Her body responded instinctively to the consuming power emanating from him. She fought to keep from flushing as his stare seemed to strip her bare.
When he looked back up at her, he was surprised to see the effect his perusal had had on her. Their eyes locked again, but this time, he was busy sorting the confused emotions pouring out of her. He saw anxiety, bravery, confusion, respect, and... passion? He blinked. He felt the heat radiating from her, colouring her cheeks, and was momentarily stunned at the fiery response he had engendered. His head swimming with his own confusion, he shook himself and broke off their connection.
Casting back to try to remember their conversation, Snape absently toyed with his script and music box. In one fluid movement, he stood. Clearing his throat, he reasserted his authority. "It is getting late, Miss Granger. I have more important things to do than sit here and prate on all evening with you. We have our instructions. I trust you will give this new assignment as much attention as you do all others." His tumultuous brain kept him from being quite as scathing as usual. Hermione was grateful for the reprieve.
Standing, Hermione gathered her things and offered her hand to Snape.
What is it with women wanting to shake my hand today? he thought distractedly.
Politely, Hermione said, "Professor, I appreciate your dedication to Hogwarts and Dumbledore. I hope we can put aside our differences to work successfully on this endeavour."
Snape, disconcerted by her previous reactions and revelations, hesitantly extended his hand toward her. He quickly grasped it and even more quickly released it. He did not know what to think about the sensation that rushed from his fingers to his centre as they touched. Annoyed at the irrational effects she had on him, he sniffed brusquely and straightened to his full height, looking down his long nose at Hermione.
"Very well, Miss Granger. We shall meet again soon. I hope you can manage to convince your meddlesome friends to behave in a more mature manner as well."
Hermione's eyes flashed at his snide comment, but she courteously answered, "I shall do my best, Professor. Good night." With that, she nodded to him and elegantly walked from the room.
Snape found himself watching her leave, his gaze coming to rest on the gentle sway of her backside as she left. The unexpected tingle in his stomach brought him crashing back to reality.
Gods! The stress from this ridiculous affair has addled my brains. I need a drink.
He ignored the tiny part of his being that kept replaying the burning heat in her eyes, the electric jolt from her touch, and the heady view of her shapely arse as he resolutely headed for his rooms, fully intent on drinking himself into forgetfulness. It would not do for him to look at a child in that way. That traitorous part of his being wickedly flashed up the recently acquired information, She's not a child. She's eighteen.
Shaking his head, trying to rid himself of such dangerous thoughts, Snape opened the door to his quarters and, after warding and silencing the door behind him, went straight to his bottle of Firewhisky.
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Latest 25 Reviews for Phantom of Hogwarts
1533 Reviews | 7.33/10 Average
It's been so long since last I read Phantom of Hogwarts, and it was just as wonderful as I remembered! Thank you for writing this fic...however many years ago. :)
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
Oh, wow! No matter how long ago it is that I finished PoH, It will always be in my top 5 achievements. LOL I'm so glad you feel that it has held up on re-reads. Thank you so much for making my night brighter! :)
Haa! Haaa! Haaa! Had to keep reading so I couldn't review since the proposal. Harry is a turd for telling Dumbledore to use Dobby to go after Hermione and Severus. I didn't expect Dumbledore or her parents to react with such intense nagativity. I expected some nay saying but not the heap of anger that was piled on top of them. Well, lets see if Minerva is here to hug him or hang him.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*huge grin* Glad to make you laugh! Thanks as always for reviewing! :)
O I just love the ring!!!!!
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
I covet that ring SO much. I'm glad you like it too. Thanks so much for reviewing! :)
What did Albus do while the rest of the cast enjoyed the party? I suppose he was entertaining the Ministry official? I felt a little bit bad for him. He did have fun directing the play. I wonder if he plans to teach next year's Art's class. Maybe he was having a long distant conversation with the other Headmasters. I doubt it, though. Things are going too well for Severus in a way. I'm waiting for the other shoe to fall when he and Hermione come out of the closet. I don't know why Hermione can't be bothered to see him once a week for a few minutes somehow. I couldn't stay away from my lover for two months while we lived in the same castle. I'd at least write him a little love note as often as I could. The girl is made of steel or ice. You would think she would realize they need to have some plan for what they are to do at the end of term. Will they be a couple at the graduation ceremony? Will they be one the next day? Will they both go to the house on Spinner's End or will she go home to her parents first? I don't think she realizes that he wanted her input so that she would love the house as their home. He's giving her a house. He's preparing her a home, them a home. She could at least tell him that she is happy to think he is working on their home and tell him if she plans to move in straight away or not. This hiatus in their relationship puzzles me. I suppose they can only have it all or nothing. Hermione isn't able to compartmentalize apparently.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
You're not the only one wondering when the other shoe will drop, especially after the close calls they've had already. *snerk* Your questions will be answered (some to a greater degree than others) all in due time, my dear. ;) Thanks so much for reviewing! :)
I have no worries over the employment with Fern issue. I like her though. My kind of woman. Born and raised only slightly less hippyish. We moved to Hawaii, but didn't live in a commune. I'm very glad Hermione likes the idea of the house being "theirs". I am surprised her dad didn't notice her mum gushing over Severus. But, I don't think my husband would notice now that I think about it. I could go out with my pants inside out and he wouldn't notice unless someone else said something about it. It's odd. He complements me when he thinks I looks pretty but wouldn't be able to save me from lipstick on my teeth or some other embarrassing thing. He reminds me a lot of Ron, come to think about it.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
LOL at your description of your husband. I hope reminding you of Ron is a good thing. ;P Thanks so much for reviewing! :)
I'm surprised at Hermione's behavior and her giving up the opportunity to spend time with Severus. I suppose that the fact that neither seems to be obsessing about two missed opportunities to spend time together shows they are more confident in their relationship. I'm surprised that Severus would leave Hermione crying with her feelings hurt after the play. He was able to suppress his revolt of Voldemort. He needed to compartmentalize his being creeped out by Hermione's mother. I'm also surprised that so much time has gone by since they have communicated last. Hermione didn't even look at him during the performance. I realize he was sitting next the Minerva, but there must have been some opportunity to make eye contact if they had been looking for one. I'm happy Severus is so distracted by planing his new life. Other wise, I think his feelings would be hurt that she seemed to ignore him. It is the holidays and I would have thought that Hermione would be looking to spend time together even if it was just studying in her rooms while he read. I'm also glad that his neighborhood isn't the run down and empty sort of place it is usually described as. I have never thought of myself as super jealous but I guess I am. I don't know about having Severus in business with another witch. I know he wouldn't love anyone besides Hermione, but I wouldn't expect the other witch not to be attracted to him. Who wouldn't be. Well, his plans of leaving at then end of the year are out of the bag; it's kind of too bad. People are bound to connect his leaving with he and Hermione starting a relationship while he was still a Professor after such chemistry between them in the play. I expect some idiots to be that way even if they wait a little while to come out together. But there is no need to wait. They need to get married asap! I know I've already said this 3 other times. They have already promised to be together forever. At least half the people on the planet have their marriages arranged by their parents and they learn to live together without long periods of courting even if they are engaged as children. Not that I approve of child engagement, but I'm not against other cultures with arranged marriages. My life would have been happier if my parents and my husband's parents had been from the same social class. My parents tried to be friends with his but his were intimidated. His mother and sister also didn't like me. Severus and Hermione are going to have to deal with Hermione's mother though. It will become a problem between Hermione and her parents because her mom likes him too much! If they can get that under control, I don't think Hermione's parents will be unhappy about them becoming a couple.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
They have indeed become more confident as a couple, after the things they've already gone through. And they are now able to focus on other things besides the all-encompassing obsession with each other, such as setting up their future. :) Thanks so much for reviewing! :)
OK. I would never perve and gush like that as a married woman. Thank gods, I am not Hermione's mum. I was getting worried. She is so embarrassing. Poor Severus! Hermione's dad must be very secure. He wasn't jealous at all even though Dion was making a spectacle of herself. Poor Hermione too! It's creepy and gross to have your mom perving about your lover let alone being so obvious about it in front of all of your peers. Did she really think he would give her a kiss? Yuck! I had a friend when I was a teen who's mom slept with her boyfriend and she caught them! I'm trying not to gag right now. I was already not feeling well, so that might be adding to it. Let's move on, shall we? Wonderful chapter BTW!
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
ROFL!!! Sorry to make you all oogy. ;) Thanks as always for reviewing! :)
I do hope I wasn't that embarrassing as a mom! But then again...I did so enjoy embarrassing my teenagers. Maybe I'm getting payback but I do believe I am being over paid enormously. I count it as a down payment on all of the money, time and emotional energy they are still costing me as adults. They are higher maintenance now than they were as children! But how can you blame me? Who else's mother carried a knitted uterus, a muppet breast and a life size fake pelvis in her trunk? Did you know that if you take the pelvis, turn it over, turn it backwards and put it on your head you can say, "Look! I'm a Klingon!" I only resorted to such things when provoked, I swear! If they were rude to me and embarrassed me in front of their friends, well, what was I supposed to do? And I'm sure anyone's mum would give STD lectures to any teenagers that she could get into the back seat of her taxi. I did have some mercy. I declined the request to a teach sex ed module at their private school. Instead the teacher would send home questions and I would write her a note to be taken back the next day. One of my favorites was, "What is the vas deferens?" I also spent literally thousands of dollars on therapy for both of them. I even took out a mortgage on my house to afford it. It was a total waste of money and the bank ended up with the house. 
! I wonder if Dion will be just as enamored with Severus after she finds out he is her daughter's soul mate and she is the love of his life? I would be so jealous! I seriously can't even imagine what is going to happen when those two come out. The only one I can count on is Ginny. Everyone else is a wild card as far as I can see at this point. I have no guesses about who will say what. Will Minerva still support Severus? I do hope so. I hope I am pleasantly surprised by everyone else as well. Maybe Albus will stun me and back them up after he comes to terms with the new Severus Snape. On with the show!
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*cackling* I love it! Too funny, darlin. :D I have to say, I am so enjoying that you really can't tell what will happen, particularly with people's reactions. I would hate to be too transparent and predictable. ;P Thank you so much for reviewing! :)
Bless Minerva! I dare say she will be angry at first, but I do believe that when she realizes how much Hermione loves him she will come around. I'm so glad she came down to tell Severus she supports him in his quest for freedom and happiness. Severus is experiencing a whole new world in spite of megalomaniacs like Dumbledore and Voldemort. He is a very useful and powerful tool. It's no wonder they both wanted to control him. He is probably the most powerful wizard next to Dumbledore in Britain, maybe even the world. I do hope that Albus reconsiders his motives. If he persists in believing he owns Severus Snape, I would have to say he is a bad person for all of his twinkling on the outside. I know you said he was like a father that didn't want to let go of a son, but he needs to get over himself or he will lose said son. He probably isn't evil but he is controling, manipulative and has power issues. 
I know I already said this, but I think they really need to get married before they come out of the closet to shut down any scandle mongering. They aren't just every day people. They are war heros and have reputations to worry about that everyday people don't have to be concerned with. If they are married then no matter what people may accuse them of, they can't say that Severus didn't do the honorable thing by quiting his job and marrying the young woman. Some people like to believe the worst in others as a hobby. They are stupid and stupid people don't matter. I have an idea of where Severus could work! 
They could start a second line of products that are serious.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*beams* Yeah, you summed Albus up quite nicely, indeed! Thank you for such a lovely review! :)
Tastefully kinky and erotic solutions to several itches, not the least, Severus' newly declared freedom from Albus Dumbledore. I am surprise on one hand that Albus could be so selfish and forcefully maintain his mastery over his ex spy. He seemed to truly be interested in Severus' happiness, but like some parents he can't cut the apron string. He also seems to forget that he wouldnt have needed to work so hard to keep Severus alive if he hadn't been constantly sending him into lif threating circumstances. Albus misstepped himself when he made Severus a possession. I can imagine Hermione having something to say to Dumbledore before they leave the castle for good. Albus is a bully even though he works on the side of the light. Power corrupts as they say. I can imagine Hermione telling Albus Dumbledore "exactly where the bear slept," explaining exactly how things are going to be from now on and letting him know what she is willing to do if he decides not to respect their relationship and autonomy or tries to stand in their way. I think the best thing to do is get married the night of the leaving feast in a small wedding that maybe her parents will be at and Ginny, Neville, Harry and Ron. Severus, with his wife, can turn in his resignation the next day. I know there are more opportunities out there for them and him in particular than the apothecary shop. In his new state of the art lab, he can mix specially requested potions for individuals and corporations. Hermione can help him with the research and inventing new potions. They could do some coloboration with the Twins and be a private contractor for the Ministry and St. Mungos. They can travel and do research while things calm down back at the school. I'm all for their kinky fun and planing for the future. Does Albus Dumbledore forget who Severus Snape is?
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*beams* Oh, I am looking forward to you reading further... ;D Albus may not have ever really understood who Severus is, but he'll learn, and fairly quickly too. Thank you so much for such a lovely review! :)
I started to write about this before, but didn't get to finish the review. I think. If this is a repeat just ignore me. I think that Hermione should let Severus know about her plans to stretch her hymen before they consummate their relationship. He is insecure and jealous by nature even if he is doing a spiffing job of changing. I can see a slow train wreck on the horizon that could ruin the most important night in their lives. If Hermione feels different to Severus he may wonder. And if he asks in a way that makes her offended that he would even think she would be with another person that would be a total boner breaker, if you'll forgive the use of the term. I hope she decides to write him a steamy letter telling him about her explorations with the candle. I could see 4 months either making the heart grow fonder, or just as easily the space between them making them more open to misunderstanding. They may become out of practice at communicating. I am surprised that Severus didn't let the apothecary owners know that he has not yet informed his current employer of his plans and that jealous would appreciate it if they would be discreet and not discuss this with anyone else. I wonder why he doesn't apply with St. Mungo's. Maybe he will.I wonder how Minerva is faring.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
I think I can safely say, without being too spoilery, that Hermione's explorations don't end in tragedy and interminable angst. *shifty eyes* Thanks as always for reviewing! :)
My Word!!! That Colin did get what he deserved. But my, the drama! It was extremely... wonderful! The entire chapter was extremely wonderful!!! I love, love, loved it! I'm sorry for not reviewing lately but I felt it was building to something and wanted to keep going without stopping when I could. Also, I've been so tired because I've been getting home from work quite late this week, and I know that if I start a review I'll want it worth something and that takes time that would prevent me from being able to read. All day and evening at work I can't wait to get home and read a chapter or two before going to bed.Now, I am wondering about Albus. He isn't daft. He's at least as intelligent as Ginny Weasley. And while Ginny knows Hermione, Albus knows Severus. I do believe he isn't fooled but trusts Severus to be honorable until Hermione graduates. His trust isn't misplaced. Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if this entire contest was all just a ruse for Severus' benefit. Although Severus is older than Hermione,his emotional growth has been stunted and I think Albus knows that.Hermione is exceptional and more mature than the boys her age. Someone as intelligent as Dumbledore must have seen that they would make the perfect couple. And he loves Severus like a son in this story, I think. Also he can't stop from meddling. It must be a little boring and anticlimactic for a strategist like Dumbledore without Voldemort around. This would be a big huge plan that would last the entire school year, take a lot of planning and time for Dumbledore to work on, he is obviously having fun and it gives these two time to fall in love! That is my theory at this point. I seldom read a long story that I become emotionally invested in without checking the ending to make sure it isn't sad. Actually, I don't think I can read a story without becoming emotionally invested so I can't bare sad endings. But you've said this has a happy ending so I'm glad to tell you that you have the honor of being the only author in forever that I haven't read the ending first. At least I don't think I have. ...If I have I don't remember it. I am getting so forgetful. It scares me. Seriously. I hope it's only stress. I have that in spades with adult children and their children living with me, sucking the life out of me and all my money too. None of them work. Well, enough of that. I read you to forget that crap! On with the story!
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
Whoops! I can't believe I missed this review earlier. Sorry! :( I can guarantee that this fic has a happy ending, so I am glad you are sticking around. :) Thanks as always for reviewing! :)
"All right Hermione, spill it! Just what's going on between you and Snape?" a stanza of intense and slightly alarming music is inserted here. What the Hell, Hermione. Just tell her. You have enough dirt on her to get her expelled if she says anything. She is usually a very reliable secret keeper. And as your friend she will he happy if you are. She may even be able to do you the occasional turn of favor and cover for you.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
LOL!!! I can hear exactly what you're describing. Thanks so much for reviewing! :)
I love the letter!!! It's wonderful that Severus and Hermione are equally inexperienced in the matters of the heart. The letter is sweetly mushy, blooming with youthful enthusiasm and titillating; and it was received with simple joy, surprise, and equally exuberant arousal. His first love letter was a doozy! Wait until they have some experience writing naughty letters!
I'm very happy for Harry and Ginny. I hope Harry loves Ginny as much as she deserves. I suppose it goes without saying that she is a much better match than Hermione.It was pretty amazing the effect Snape's fear had on him in preventing him from punishing Harry and Ginny on that table. I wouldn't have expected such a reaction once he'd registered it wasn't Hermione. I would have thought that he would have been delighted in the opportunity to embarrass and punish Harry Potter. He's fallen hard. Poor man. I hope having what he's been longing for can live up to his expectations and hopes fueled by all this anticipation. I guess letting the kids go shows that he isn't motivated by meanness really. He just didn't have anything better to think about before. Everyone hated him and he hated them before they could hate him so there! But now he can move on past puberty and past his hatred of his childhood enemies, James and Sirius. He's the only one of them still alive for, goodness sake! Put those childish things behind you, Severus, and live! Maybe you have already paid for this good karma and they have paid for their cruelty. Stop disliking Harry just because he's a Potter. It eats away at you like a cancer. Be free of it. Forgive like you have been forgiven and be healed. It will help your relationship with Hermione too. What could be better than helping your relationship with Hermione, hmmmm?
I also want to say that I have always loved the twins. The return letter was excellent. Fred and George should have never been separated any more than the paramount potion's master in the world would be caught without antivenin with a known deadly snake.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*pleased grin* Y'know, I really hope you continue to enjoy some of the stuff coming up, because it SO addresses things you've brought up here. *rubs hands together in anticipation* And I love that you enjoyed the twins' letter. I wanted to capture their voice, even if only for a short blurb. I lovelovelove your deliciously thoughtful reviews. Thank you so much for reviewing! :)
I truly enjoy the way Severus has taken the plunge and isn't reluctant to tell Hermione that he loves her at least 3 times, I think, in the last few hours. I am extremely happy that they were able to retrieve their memories of each other so quickly. I have no doubt that Ginny will figure out there is something going on between these two. The only question is how soon? Well, and will she be supportive? I think she will. I think she will see that they match eachother. Twice in my life another person told me there was something between myself and male of the species while I was in denial about it, I guess. And didn't see it until a 3rd party told me straight up. Both said it was the way we looked at each other when we interacted and they were dubious about the fact that I was not aware of it because to them it was so obvious. I admit there was what I had considered some harmless flirting going on, but I told myself that is was all a lark. The first time, I had really pushed those feelings deep inside and I was truly flabbergasted when I was told that the young man was in love with me by a mutual friend. Once I had possession of that knowledge however, my own feelings came rushing up at me out of nowhere and floored me. It was kind of awful because I was in a long engagement to someone else that lived far away whom I only saw about once a month and had to share him with his family when he would come to see me. I was still in school and he was 7 years older than I was.Once the cat was out of the bag, I dreamed of that young man at least once a week then once a month for the next 13 years because we had unfinished business when we parted. All of my dreams were trying to resolve the issue and get closure. Finally I got fat enough that I would be too embarrassed if he ever saw me again and the dreams mostly stopped. But...I still think of him from time to time 35 years later. I enjoyed this chapter very much. Once again, you have done such a wonderful job of making the reader feel what our Hermione and Severus are experiencing.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*wriggles in happiness* I love that you are pleased about feeling what the characters are experiencing. I strive so much for plausibility and believability that it warms the cockles of my heart to get such lovely feedback. Thank you so much for reviewing! :)
I certainly can't blame Dione for having a fan girl crush on Severus. What red blooded woman in her right mind wouldn't?
Dude is totally hot! Hermione should be glad it gave her the opportunity to come to an understanding with her man that Severus belongs to her ...and he likes it! And don't we all wish we had a dad like Mr. Granger? It must be very difficult for some parents to send their children away to boarding school. However, it probably makes some other parents and young people appreciate one another in a way that would never happen if they had been in eachother's space all the time, struggling for who's in control and experiencing full blown teenage angst. Over all it has been an extremely satisfiying trip.
And now they don't have to worry about Severus having to meet Hermione's parents in the circumstance of, "Mom. Dad. This is my former Potion's Professor Severus Snape. I have some very exciting news for you. Severus and I are in love and plan to spend the rest of our lives together. We fell in love while playing oposite each other in the school play."
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*beams* Your reviews bring joy to my day. Thank you so much for reviewing! :)
This was a sweet and fun chapter. I love that Severus has a sense of humor. When are they going to "do" it?! Or at least go to second base!
This is going to be a long school year!
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
Oh, darlin, this is definitely gonna be a long school year... LOL Thanks so much for reviewing! :)
I can't imagine what mischief I would have gotten into if I had the ability to silence my parents door. For some strange reason, ever since I was in 10 th grade, I would be out in the front whatever car with my boyfriend and I just knew my parents would never come out side to check on us or wonder what we could possibly be doing in the driveway for 5 hours with the windows fogged up. They locked the front door and went to bed. Only once did I forget my house key and had to wake my parents at 1 AM to get in. They really trusted me. Why? We never had intercourse but we did just about every thing else. I was the mother who came looking for you if you were a half hour late. I didn't trust my daughters because I knew I wasn't exactly Polly Anna when I was their age. I mostly just ended up knowing more than I wanted to about my kids personal lives. If your progeny don't stop themselves by choice, there isn't a lot you can do unless you keep them tied to you 24/7 with a rope around your waist. Only one daughter was boy crazy. Things had changed. I don't know what the definition of slut changed to but it didn't include girls that slept with their boyfriend from 8th grade up. I never needed to be on birth control until a month before my wedding. I made sure my little minx was on the pill because I didn't believe I could trust her and I was right. At least Hermione is an adult and Hermione or Severus must certainly know contraception spells. I'm feeling as frustrated as Hermione here. But he's right. And it won't hurt them to wait. I did and I'm still glad. But they've made a lot of head way in their relationship. Wouldn't it be better to just come clean to Dumbledore that they are in love with each other through no fault of their own, but that they promise to follow the school charter and will be very discrete and won't tell anyone else but him. Rather than finding ways to keep them apart, I inclined to think that Dumbledore would find ways to give them time together and would cover for them so that Minerva doesn't find out until after the school year is over.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*bounces in glee* Oh, I love how invested you are, and how awesome your reviews are. Thank you so much, as always! :)
Absolutely lovely! The play was wonderful. All the flirting is building massive quantities of tension! I can imagine how they are feeling during desert. It's like being there. You expressed every movement, thought and feeling so exquisitely. In my springtime I remember a young man. We wanted each other but we couldn't go there. I was spoken for and had made my choice. I made the practical choice, but not my heart's choice. I was mature enough to know that the butterflies in your tummy don't last forever. We did things together pretending to be just friends The tension was painful and delightful at the same time. I'm still pretty sure I made the right decision. 
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*beams* Why, thank you! I'm so glad it came across so well (I try to describe exactly how I see things playing out in my head, so it's as detailed as I can make it, LOL). As for the tension, I was called the Queen of UST back in the day when I was writing this. *snerk* But, it'll all be resolved, I promise! ;) Thanks so much for reviewing! :)
Poor Hermione. Her parents were very ebarrassing. But isn't that what parents are for? At least we know that when Hermone and Severus can finally come out of the closet, Dione will be on Hermione's side. She would totally understand what Hermione sees in Severus Snape. And Geoff is a nice man so I think he'll be OK. I couldn't write all the reviews I wanted because it wakes up dad. I wanted to ask you a question on a previous chapter. If Severus takes dreamless sleep and there is an emergency in Slytherin house, can he wake up to tend to the problem? I just want to say that the 4.5 stars on some of the chapters baffel me. I think they are all 5's. I have 20 more minutes before I have to go to bed so I must return to reading. Happy Sunday night.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*blush* Aww, you're so kind! Re: Dreamless Sleep, I have always thought of it like an over the counter sleep aid, which in my experience just keeps you groggier if you're woken up, but you can be, with proper interference. LOL I had SO MUCH FUN writing this chapter. :D As for writing reviews--I appreciate any and all, whether they're on all the chapters you wanted to review or not! Thank you as always for reviewing! :)
I've been excitedly reading the last 4 chapters and you have met and exceeded my hopes and expetations. I can't type more because the sound bothers my husband's sleep. Hugs and kisses. I Love It!
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*bounces* Yay! I'm so glad you've been enjoying it. Thanks as always for reviewing! :)
Do witches and wizards listen to the same holiday music as muggles? I hope Hermione doesn't regret forgetting to take the smut reading material that she had borrowed from Ginny out of her bra before the party.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
I daresay there may be some old standards that may crossover. LOL Thanks so much for reviewing! :)
You have taken my breath away. How exciting and horrible to want someone one shouldn't and can't have. The play...such a brave young woman to make him kiss her. 
What will Severus do to punish himself and Hermione for this secret that has been exposed. Desire. Humiliation. 
Hurry. Send him an owl, Hermione or a house elf with a note to let him know you reciprocate his feelings. Thank him for being such a gentleman and not pressing his advantage. Are you wise enough and mature enough to be proactive once again? You aren't afraid of him. Can you imagine how he must be feeling and prevent the damage? It would be very hard not to be carried away with her own emotions and physical sensation and not to tarry hashing it out over and over in her mind before she finally realizes the danger. Will she see it immediately or think of it too late?
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
And you've just taken my breath away! *bounces* Oh, I love that you're enjoying this and are so invested in it so far. It brings me such joy. Thank you for such a lovely review! :)
I really enjoyed the interaction between Severus and Hermione when they got their costumes and Hermione did his hair. I am really glad he got to see her telling Harry off. I don't know how much longer they will be able to keep their hands off eachother. There is so much suppressed sexual tension that if when they actually kissed kiss they might combust. I'm actually looking forward to her detention. This was important bridge chapter. I wonder what else is going on in Dumbledore's head. He is no fool. I can't believe he doesn't see the sexual tension between these two, or at least the potential for it eventually. He does have a great deal of confidence in Severus. I believe he is sure Severus would never be inappropriate with a student,...but she's an adult. Is he tryig to fix them up or is he really just a mean manipulating old puffter that truly gets enjoyment out of making other people uncomfortable and embarrassed because he's Albus Dumbledore and he can? How do the "good guys" find an outlet for their control and power issues? They pick on others and prentend it's a joke. If Voldemort worked this hard at embarrassing Severus would we think he was just being evil or that it was just all in good fun and that he only teases people he cares for as a show of affection? 
I think not.
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*huge grin* I daresay your questions about "good guy" Albus will be answered in due time. *snerk* Thank you again for such a lovely review! :)
Again, Wow! The scene with Severus' jealous rage was incredible. I'm happy that Hermione perceives all things in Severus Snape she told Harry. I really hope he thinks about what she said and heeds her warning, if not garner some sense of respect for the man. I felt a sense of satisfaction when she admitted that if Harry had been that angry his lack of control would have brought down half the castle. Harry won't be able to let this go as well as Hermione. He isn't as mature and...he isn't falling for someone else. This whole thing will prove very unpleasant for a while I suspect. I'm kind of sorry for Harry. How can he not help but be attracted to Hermione, but he hasn't got a tinker's chance in hell against Severus Snape? How long before Severus realizes Hermione broke it off with Harry? Will he at all admit to himself that it was because of him? No. I think not. How long before Harry realizes that next to Severus Snape's power, discipline, knowledge, experience, awesomeness and mojo, he's got a long way to go and he may as well move on? Well, I doubt he'll ever see Snape as sexually appealing, so no mojo epiphany expected. I wonder, how long it will take Hermione to get Severus to trust her? Which will take longer; Harry to realize he can't compete with Severus Snape for the girl or for Severus Snape to trust Hermione? I don't envy Hermione right now. But Severus Snape is worth it. Amazing chapter!
Response from Good_Witch (Author of Phantom of Hogwarts)
*bursts out laughing* Mojo epiphany? LOVE IT! So glad you're enjoying; thanks so much for reviewing! :)