Oops! I suppose Severus didn't think about the effect of all those females lusting after him, did he? And yet he was so strict with Hermione when she was being wanted by someone else.

Well, well. At least he knows that she really does care. Enough to get angry, at least!

Yet again, a lovely chapter. I really liked the more sophisticated take on the Dark gatherings (the stereotypical Dark Revel always seemed quite unplausable to me). Nice cliffhanger too. :-) I really hate the three-day delay in this queue now. Do you post anywhere else but here and at Ashwinder where chapters get through more quickly? Or, another idea, you wouldn't need another Beta, would you? :-)

How very predatory all those pureblood females must be.

Oh my GOD!!!! BAD BAD Sevy! I'm on the end of my seat right now cursing him...lol... I can't wait to see how this is going to mess up the fragile peace that's between the two. ohhh update soon please?!!?!

Oh noes! Why! Poor Hermione!

Brilliant chapter! And I'm srsly looking forward to the next one!

You write very skillfully!  ^_^  I always love Snape in his introspective moods and you captured that very well.  Of course, the last line was just - well, I'm sure it was the last thing Snape would have expected from Hermione at this point.  Can't wait for your next chapter.

Like the chapter - how Severus in his mind dismissed all the Pureblood women as less. The last part was a stumper - not sure why Hermione could see her ring - please do tell- cannot wait to see what that is about.

Poor, poor Hermione. My heart goes out to her.

Damn, your writing TOTALLY sucks me in!

Oh yes! that little charm!  opps!  lol lovely update! can't wait for more!

Powerfully subtle and gently enchanting - this chapter is stunning even if there was practically no interaction between Hermione and Snape.

The way you revealed these utterly contrasting images of Severus in the different worlds he has been a part of is fascinating, to say the least.

I imagine the next chapter will reveal a great deal of  feelings on Hermione's part to him... let's see what he makes of it.

Love your story, as always!

I like the interaction between Sev and Narcissa and how you portrayed her, or more, how he thought of her. That's how I picture her - keeping up appearances, but really a strong witch all in all - she had a lot of weight to bear.

Silly. Didn't think of that, did he?

Oh, yes--I saw that coming and hurt for her! Has it been hurting her, as well? Or she can simply see it? Please update soon!!!

Wicked, evil cliffy!

“Not me, you sodding imbecile!..."

This was absolutely balm to my soul! So, so so so beautiful.

Severus better start talking fast. Things were going so well between them. They were bonding, and enjoying each other. He needs to be honest with her.

Ah, Severus is an idiot.  

Oh poor Hermione what she must be thinking.  I feel for them both, but more so Severus. This chapter like non other has brought into relief the fact that he is like the "man without a country".  There is no world he is comfortable and accepted in not Muggle, Light nor Dark.  I wonder when he will realize that his true home is in the arms of the one woman that truly loves him....Hermione'sWell Done AgainIrish

I love how Snape finally picked on Malfoy. There are so many times during the HPB that I just wish Harry would shut up and realise Snape is trying to help him. At leas now I know Hermione is trying to get him to realise that too!

*squee* He kissed her!

*melts* Beautiful!

*sighs contentedly* What an awesome read!

I personally would have hexed him about thirteen ways to Sunday, but gawds do I love reading your story!

I love love love the way you portray Dumbledore. And Snape is so very much in character and I love how you show this vulnerable side of him.

I read the first four chapters straight through, andI think you've captured the characters perfectly, not least the manipulative Dumbledore.  The lovescene was really well-written - so glad that Hermione was just a little awkward and managed not to have multiple orgasms the first time.  I'm sure things are going to get much darker as weprogress, and I'm looking forward to reading further.