Crackling Fire
Chapter 7 of 31
ClayPotterSeverus shares a Christmas cognac with Sienna and things get out of hand.
ReviewedDisclaimer: All characters and dialogue you recognize are from the brilliant Harry Potter book series by J. K. Rowling. This story was written strictly for fun; no profit has been made in the writing or sharing of this story.
I'd like to extend my deepest thanks to my two wonderful betas, JenGeorge and NervousAboutAngels, for their diligent proof reading and suggestions. They really helped to improve my story.
Chapter 7
"Crackling Fire and Sparkling Cognac,
Slip Through My Arms, When Are You Coming Back?"
As fall progressed, Severus didn't regret his decision to rescind his offer to teach Sienna Defense Against the Dark Arts. Umbridge was in everyone's business, just as she had promised, and Severus felt that at some point they would surely have been caught. She was even trying to tell Dumbledore how to do his job. What a fool. Severus knew that Dumbledore put on a cooperative face for the Ministry of Magic, but behind the scenes he was working hard to lay the groundwork for a full assault against Lord Voldemort when he finally came out into the open.
Sienna continued as Severus' assistant on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Her performance in class continued to be flawless, and her duties as his assistant became more interesting. Severus had her conducting experiments with complex spells and trying different methods of preparing ingredients and stirring combinations, just to see if they would make any improvements to the basic recipe. Although the average student would have hated every minute, to Sienna it was fascinating work.
Christmas break was upon them, and Severus braced himself against what he thought would be a request for a hug before going home, but Sienna didn't even show up at his office door on the last day of school. This took him a bit by surprise, and deep down he admitted to himself that he was somewhat disappointed. But his feelings were short-lived. When he went up to dinner that night, there she was, waiting for him, at a very small table with Professors Dumbledore, McGonagall, Hagrid and Flitwick, and a handful of students from each of the other houses who were staying over the break. Thankfully, Umbridge was nowhere to be seen. It might be a decent Christmas after all, and such a pleasantly quiet change from last year.
"I thought, since there are so few of us here that it would be much cozier if we all sat together. I would not want Miss Kaolin to sit all by herself at that long, lonely Gryffindor table, would you, Professor Snape?"
"Of course not, Headmaster," Severus agreed as he approached the table. Sienna was sitting on the end, across from the only empty spot. He had no choice but to sit there. All of the other students were at the far end of the table. Why did he feel uncomfortable? If it had been a Slytherin, or any other student, for that matter, he wouldn't have thought twice. He realized that they had never shared a quiet meal in a somewhat intimate setting before. It almost felt like a date... or perhaps, an outing with friends. Yes, that was more accurate. So why was he so self-conscious? He pushed the question to the dark inner recesses of his mind and forced himself to eat.
After a few mouthfuls Severus looked up at Sienna. "Why aren't you going home to be with your mother over the holiday?"
"Because, when I found out that all the Gryffindors were leaving, I thought it would be nice to have the entire tower to myself for a couple of weeks. And besides, the Headmaster told me that she could come here if she'd like. She can stay in the dorm with me."
"So, is she coming then?" asked Dumbledore, who had overheard the conversation.
"Oh, yes, she's very anxious to come; she's never been here for Christmas. I'm sure she'll love the way the place is decorated. But she has some last minute things to do, so she won't get here until Christmas Eve. Then she has to go back to work at St. Mungo's on the 26th. She's a Healer. So we won't have much time together."
"But if she's working, you wouldn't have much time together at home either," commented Professor Flitwick.
The idle chit chat continued for a bit; then people started excusing themselves as they finished their meals. Hagrid was first. He used the excuse of feeding his many creatures, but Severus knew that there was something else going on. He had a feeling that Dumbledore was in on it, but wouldn't tell him.
The students got up in twos and threes, and left for their respective common rooms. Sienna was the only Gryffindor, and at this point, the only student left. She and Severus were still eating when Flitwick and McGonagall got up.
"I know Sibyll is still here. Probably up in her tower. I think I'll take her up a brandy," said Professor McGonagall, and she wandered off in search of Trelawney. Flitwick said his goodnights and left with her.
"Well." Dumbledore looked first at Sienna, then at Severus, with a smile that betrayed his pleasure at the current situation. He stood up, just as Severus had taken a rather large bite of treacle tart. "I think I'll retire for the evening."
Did Dumbledore plan all this? With a flick of his wand, the lights dimmed and Dumbledore left the room. It was as if half the candles blew out all at once. Now Severus was really uncomfortable. Yes, it definitely felt like a date now. He noticed that Sienna had been playing with her last bite of pudding, pushing it around in the bowl, making interesting patterns with her fork and spoon. She wasn't looking at him, thank goodness. Perhaps she felt as awkward as he did. Perhaps he would be doing both of them a favor if he just got up, said goodnight and walked out. But he couldn't bring himself to do it. It was as if his feet had grown roots.
She finally looked up into his waiting eyes. He swallowed hard, finishing the last of his treacle tart. He left his hand near the center of the table where her hand rested right next to his, almost touching it. Did he dare to reach for it? He didn't know what to do. His life was so complicated, and he knew it would get much worse before it got better. If it ever got better, if he lived through what he knew was to come. He was usually so sure of himself, but at this moment he had no answers, no plan. He felt helpless.
Sienna put her hand on top of his. Severus had been so lost in thought that her touch startled him. He jerked, but didn't pull away. They just stared at each other. What was she thinking? In his mind he uttered the word Legilimens, but no memories were forthcoming. She seemed to be concentrating only on him. She was calm and unreadable, as usual.
Severus finally decided to follow his heart just a little, and flipped his hand over. His long slender fingers gently wrapped around her small delicate hand.
"Will this get me expelled?" Sienna broke the silence with a grin.
"I don't think we have to worry about it. Umbridge isn't here for the holiday."
"Thank Merlin's Beard!" Sienna heaved a heavy sigh of relief.
Severus noticed that the butterflies in his stomach had started to dissolve.
"I've never been in here when it was completely empty before," commented Sienna. "This room is huge. It feels more like a large cathedral. Bigger, actually. And I just love the ceiling, don't you?"
Severus looked up. It was dusted with stars. He could see the Milky Way strewn across the sky. It was lovely and very romantic. He looked back down at their two hands. Well, they couldn't just sit there making small talk all night. Should he ask her back to his quarters for a drink? She was of age and could legally drink if she wanted to. But that would be too intimate. She was a student after all. No, his quarters were definitely out of the question. Perhaps his office. There was a raging fire in there no doubt. The house-elves stayed busy in the castle, even over breaks and holidays. The chairs weren't very comfortable, but that was probably for the best. But in his quarters by the fire there was a love seat... No, she's a studentt, he reminded himself.
"Would you like to come back with me to the Gryffindor common room? I'm sure there's a nice fire going in there, and we have several cushy arm chairs to sit in. We could discuss the next few potions you want to test. I'll take notes."
Comfortable cushy arm chairs, only big enough for one person each. Perfect. "I think I could be persuaded," Severus admitted with just the hint of a smile. "Perhaps, when you're not busy with your mother, we could take all this free time to continue perfecting the potions."
"That's a great idea!" They let go of each other's hands and stood up to leave.
"I want to fetch something from my quarters. I'll be up in a few minutes."
"I'll wait for you at the portrait. The Fat Lady would never let you in if I'm not with you."
"Yes," Severus sneered, a touch of irritation in his voice, "well, she's only doing her job."
They took separate paths as they headed out the door of the Great Hall. When Severus got to the entrance to Gryffindor Tower, Sienna was standing there waiting for him. His arms were loaded down with two glasses and a bottle of cognac.
"Here, let me help you with that," she took the items from him so he could manage his way through the portrait hole, then she turned to the Fat Lady. "Wither Wings." The portrait swung open. "After you, Professor," Sienna motioned him to go first. Hermione must have told her about his last attempt at getting through. He eyed the Fat Lady suspiciously as he reached the entrance to the hole, and although she peered down her nose at him through narrow eyelids, he got no trouble from her as he started to crawl in. When he was through, he turned and Sienna handed him the glasses and the bottle, then came through herself.
He was alone, in the Gryffindor common room, with a beautiful young lady, at her invitation. This is exactly the way it had happened once before, so long ago. He and Lily Evans... stuck here by themselves one Christmas break... such good memories. Don't expect the same thing to happen this time, old chap, Severus thought to himself. She's a student, you're a teacher. Keep your distance.
They found a couple of cozy chairs and pulled them up to the fire. "I'll run and get my Potions book." She was back in a flash from the girls' dormitory with the large heavy book. It had been brand new only four months earlier, but you'd have thought it was an antique to look at it now. Severus poured each of them a cognac. She sat the book on a small table in front of the two of them.
"I've been saving this." Severus held up his glass.
Sienna took hers and looked through the rich brown liquid to the firelight. It sparkled like gold. As she passed it under her nose, her eyes grew wide and she looked at him with a mock scowl. "Are you trying to get me drunk and take advantage of me?"
Severus glared at her, obviously offended. "I would never think of such a thing!" He stood up in a huff. "That's probably what the rest of the castle is thinking, too."
"How can they?" Sienna asked, trying to calm him down. "No one knows you're here except me. Besides, I was only joking. I only said it because this is pretty strong stuff, and to tell you the truth, I've never had any alcohol before. Two sips and you'll probably have to carry me up to my bed."
"I should leave." He felt increasingly uncomfortable as he took a swig. "The Fat Lady knows I'm here, and you know what a rumor mill those portraits have going out there. It'll be all over the castle by morning."
"If you leave after a respectable amount of time, they'll have nothing to talk about."
Severus stood there, not yet convinced. He took another swig in an attempt to calm his nerves.
"Please don't leave yet. I'm sorry I said it. I was only joking, I swear. I'm sure your intentions are strictly honorable."
He could see the regret written across her face. She stood up and reached for his hand, and his anger melted with her touch.
"Please stay," she whispered.
"Oh, all right." Severus slowly lowered himself into the chair. "But only for a little while." He let go of her hand and refilled his glass. He noticed that she hadn't touched hers. "Well, aren't you even going to try it?"
"OK, but don't say I didn't warn you." Sienna took a sip and started to cough. "Oh, my GOD!" She sputtered. "How do you drink this stuff?" she asked amid more coughing and sputtering. "I think I'll stick to butterbeer, thanks." And she put the glass down next to Severus' bottle.
Severus, in an effort to save the evening from complete disaster, called for a house-elf to bring her up a glass of water and a butterbeer. She gratefully thanked him and they began to discuss the next few potions that they would be working on over the break. It wasn't long, however, before that one sip of cognac had taken its toll, and Sienna had to say goodnight. They stood together, and he started to reach for the bottle and empty glasses, but she stopped him.
"I'll hand them to you after you crawl through," she said.
"Oh, right." Severus hadn't realized it while he was sitting down, but he wasn't very steady on his feet. He didn't usually drink, and then it was almost always oak mead or a touch of firewhiskey. Sienna was right, the cognac was strong stuff. He had consumed two glasses of his own, then emptied her unwanted glass into his and finished that as well. No wonder he was tipsy. Perhaps tomorrow night, he would also stick to butterbeer.
He turned towards the portrait hole, but lost his balance. Sienna reached for his arm to keep him from falling, and he grabbed her waist for security. Before he knew it they were wrapped around each other in an embrace. She's a student, she's a student, she's a student... This didn't feel like just another innocent hug. Perhaps it was the alcohol. Yes, tomorrow night it was definitely butterbeer for him.
"I'd better go," he whispered as he managed to untangle himself. She was looking at him with a touch of disappointment in her pale green eyes. "Would you be so kind as to hand me the glasses?" He crawled through the hole and turned around. She passed the glasses and the bottle to him.
"See you at breakfast," Sienna called after him as he weaved his way down the hall and into the darkness.
*****
Severus woke up the next day with the mother of all hangovers. He lay in his bed, flat on his back, looking up at the ceiling, cursing his foolish behavior. What was he thinking last night taking cognac up to Sienna? Was he out of his mind? What if they had both gotten drunk? Merlin knows what could have happened. The hug at the end of the night was bad enough, but the thoughts that had entered his mind at the time were shameful! He embarrassed himself just thinking about them. She's a student, for goodness sake. Of course, she is of age already but the student/teacher relationship must not be taken advantage of. Besides, what if Voldemort found out how he felt come to think of it, how did he feel? Wasn't it just the alcohol that took over last night? Severus searched his mind, then his heart. He felt a physical attraction, of course, although he wasn't quite sure what she could possibly see in him, since he was old enough to be her father.
He remembered wrapping his arms around her tightly, caressing her with a spark no, a fire! He remembered burying his face in her hair and breathing in deeply to relish the warmth, the softness, and the light aroma of lavender. Did her lips touch his neck? He thought surely they did, and he reached up to lightly feel the spot as it tingled with the memory. And he remembered the look of disappointment in her eyes as he came to his senses and pulled away. A warm wave washed over him. Yes, she had definitely wanted him to stay.
But he felt, as logic took over, that it would not only have been dreadfully inappropriate, it would have been inexcusable. He couldn't let it happen again. He had to make sure she knew it was a fluke, a mistake. As hard as this was to admit, he would have to apologize for his behavior. But unlike the incident the previous spring when he had accused her of something she hadn't done, he felt this was different. This was completely on his shoulders. It was his behavior that was out of line... Oh, who am I kidding? Severus finally admitted to himself. It was my behavior then as well. What had changed were his feelings for her. He had grown to care for her deeply. And if an apology would get him back on the right path with her, he felt it was a small price to pay.
He put on his bathrobe and headed slowly out the door and down the hall to his office. He knew exactly which book contained the best hangover potion, and he prayed that he still had all of the ingredients. As he struggled down the hall, he found to his surprise that the door to his office was already open. Sienna was inside with a potion brewing.
"I figured, with the condition you were in last night, you'd need something this morning. I found three different recipes, but I thought this one held the most promise." She pointed to the recipe he had planned to use. She was stirring a small cauldron over the leftover coals from the previous night's fire. They were just hot enough to simmer the potion effectively, and she ladled some out into a large ceramic mug.
"Give it a minute to cool off."
"How did you get in here?" Severus tried to put on a face that was less miserable than he felt on the inside.
"I figured in your condition last night, that you either forgot to put the Locking spell on the door, or your spell was not properly executed. Either way, I could get in." Sienna looked quite pleased with herself.
Severus sat down and took a deep breath. "About my behavior last night," he began rather sheepishly. "I apologize. It won't happen again."
"Yes, I think from now on we should steer away from the strong stuff." Sienna donned a coy smile. "Otherwise, you never know. I might try to get you drunk and take advantage of you."
Severus started to chuckle, but his head hurt so much he had to stifle himself. Sitting there in her chair, calm and happy, Sienna looked like an angel to him. "Why on earth are you so determined to be my friend, no matter what I say or do?" He was truly puzzled now. He had been asking himself that question for quite some time. What did she see in him that none of the other students saw? That he didn't even see in himself?
"Just a sucker for lost causes, I guess," she laughed. Severus wasn't amused. At this point, he felt like she could have been serious. "No, really, just before I left the ashram, when I was 15, I had a vision. I saw myself older, walking with a man beside a beautiful lake. There was a huge castle up on a hill behind us. We were talking and laughing. He was obviously someone I cared for very deeply." Severus tried to picture the scene in his mind, as Sienna continued. "The first night I came here, the night I was Sorted, I saw you at the staff table. I recognized you immediately. You were the man in my vision. I knew then that someday we would be great friends, and I've just been doing what I can so far to help make that happen."
Severus was looking directly into Sienna's grayish green eyes. He didn't mean to do it, but subconsciously he wanted to see her vision for himself, because it sounded so beautiful. Legilimens, he thought. And then he was there, by the Black Lake, Hogwarts Castle rising behind him, watching a slightly older version of himself, with a touch of gray running through his shoulder length black hair. He was walking alone with Sienna. She had forgotten to mention that they were holding hands. They started laughing. Then the vision Severus pulled Sienna to him and they kissed. A long, passionate kiss! The real Severus gasped and blinked hard. When his eyes came back into focus, he was looking at the real Sienna. She was furious. He could feel the power of her anger radiating from her. It reminded him of Dumbledore when he was really furious. He had not known that she was that powerful. Severus knew immediately that he had overstepped his boundaries.
"What...just...happened?" Sienna growled through gritted teeth.
"I..." Severus stammered. He didn't know what to say. He just wanted to share the memory. But it was odd, too. He had never seen a memory of a future event before, much less one that included him. "I didn't mean to...I couldn't help myself."
"You saw it, didn't you?" Her voice was calm and quiet, barely above a whisper, but the rage was still there.
"Yes," Severus was still looking into her eyes.
"All...all of it?" Her anger was beginning to mingle with distress.
"Yes," with this he looked down to the papers on his desk. He felt two inches tall.
Sienna was shaking now. He could still feel an incredible energy field radiating from her. "You were not supposed to see that. Not yet. You're not ready yet." An angry tear streamed down her face. She pushed it aside with the back of her hand. She seemed irritated with herself for crying. "This changes everything." She pushed the mug towards him from across the desk. "Here's your potion." Then she turned as another tear found a path down her face, and stormed out.
"Miss Kaolin," Severus pleaded. "Sienna!" He had never called her by her first name before. He had hoped that it would help, but she was gone.
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Latest 25 Reviews for The Potion Master's Assistant
100 Reviews | 4.56/10 Average
Ok, I'm going to give it another chapter, but I see some issues. I know how how badly it impacts a writer when they get a bad review. So, I'm going to try to be helpful and not just talk down you to about not liking the story. You have a good start, but it's just too coincidental. The description of this girl is even odd. Try for subtelty. I can see where you are going a mile away. You don't have to be so blatant about things. There is no lead up to her appearing in his room and offering to be his assistant.The Lilly interlude was also strangely done. For a moment I wasn't sure that you were inferring he was dreaming or if she was a ghost... or if she was real. THat being said, you have a great idea, but the execution just lacks some. I'm going to continue to read because I think the idea is interesting and I hope you keep writing.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Hi
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
. Thanks for taking the time to review. I understand your concerns about the beginning of this story. I don take offense at all at your gentle constructive criticism. It was my first attempt at creative writing since high school, and by my own admission, it wasn't very good. If you can suffer through the first few chapters, it does actually get better, though. I got to know the characters and got a better feel for writing in general. If you look at the posting date for the first chapter, you'll see that it was several years ago. If you don't wish to continue, I certainly understand. Someday I would like to re-write the first 10 chapters, but right now, I am working on the last 6 chapters of my only other story, "Secret Recipe". If I ever get that done, I will go back and tweak this one.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Hi
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
. Thanks for taking the time to review. I understand your concerns about the beginning of this story. I don take offense at all at your gentle constructive criticism. It was my first attempt at creative writing since high school, and by my own admission, it wasn't very good. If you can suffer through the first few chapters, it does actually get better, though. I got to know the characters and got a better feel for writing in general. If you look at the posting date for the first chapter, you'll see that it was several years ago. If you don't wish to continue, I certainly understand. Someday I would like to re-write the first 10 chapters, but right now, I am working on the last 6 chapters of my only other story, "Secret Recipe". If I ever get that done, I will go back and tweak this one.
I have sat and read this story in its entirety over the past 7 hours. I wasn't sure if I would like it, but I must say, this is one of the best fanfics I have ever read. I'm not sure I can find the words to explain to you the effect this story has had on me.It's not just incredibly well written (which it is)... The depth and clarity of your own creative plot-line was absolutely amazing. It was believeable. Not to mention, quite outside the box - which was so refreshing in fanfic.I've been reading fanfic for several years. Your story just blew me away. So complex, yet, incredibly simple. J,K. spouted about love over-coming - you brought MEANING to it. Like - "here's a cake" - you showed HOW to MAKE the cake. It was beautiful.I can't possibly praise this story as it truly deserves. It touched my soul. Thank you for sharing it.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Hi
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
, and thank you so much for your generous review. I have never received such praise from a reader and I am humbled by your words. Unlike the story I am currently working on which has been a struggle to write, The Potion Master's Assistant came to me in waves of inspiration. I carried my notebook everywhere and was constantly writing it down... at the dinner table, in bed before drifting off or late at night when I couldn't sleep, even in long lines waiting for rides at Disney World. I would sit on my notebook when we finally got to go on the ride! I knew most people wouldn't even give it a try because it was not a SS/HG pairing, but there was no way I could make it work with those two. I felt that Severus needed someone who would accept and love him unconditionally, and I figured it would take someone with extrodinary patience to do that. While she was in school, Hermione was not that type of person. We all love Severus, but let's face it, he would not be an easy person to live with. I had a friend who was very prickly like Severus. Many people hated him, many tried to ignor him. I was only ever nice to him, even when he was mean to me. We became dear friends mainly because I took the time to understand him. He turned out to be bi-polar, which made him wonderful sometimes and horrible other times. Very intelligent with a dry wit, but he could be very cruel if he was in a bad mood. So I modeled Sienna's and Severus' beginning around the way our friendship developed. I succeeded in becoming his friend because I stuck it out no matter how badly he treated me. Eventually I won him over. In the end he committed suicide, but I will always consider him one of my dearest friends.This story came pouring from my soul. I'm so glad to know that it touched yours.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Hi
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
, and thank you so much for your generous review. I have never received such praise from a reader and I am humbled by your words. Unlike the story I am currently working on which has been a struggle to write, The Potion Master's Assistant came to me in waves of inspiration. I carried my notebook everywhere and was constantly writing it down... at the dinner table, in bed before drifting off or late at night when I couldn't sleep, even in long lines waiting for rides at Disney World. I would sit on my notebook when we finally got to go on the ride! I knew most people wouldn't even give it a try because it was not a SS/HG pairing, but there was no way I could make it work with those two. I felt that Severus needed someone who would accept and love him unconditionally, and I figured it would take someone with extrodinary patience to do that. While she was in school, Hermione was not that type of person. We all love Severus, but let's face it, he would not be an easy person to live with. I had a friend who was very prickly like Severus. Many people hated him, many tried to ignor him. I was only ever nice to him, even when he was mean to me. We became dear friends mainly because I took the time to understand him. He turned out to be bi-polar, which made him wonderful sometimes and horrible other times. Very intelligent with a dry wit, but he could be very cruel if he was in a bad mood. So I modeled Sienna's and Severus' beginning around the way our friendship developed. I succeeded in becoming his friend because I stuck it out no matter how badly he treated me. Eventually I won him over. In the end he committed suicide, but I will always consider him one of my dearest friends.This story came pouring from my soul. I'm so glad to know that it touched yours.
I think this is a nice start. I will be downloading the story then reading on vacation. You can e-mail me in one month if I don't leave another review!
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
I hope you enjoy it enough to give me another review when you are finished. I also like to download stories and read them later when I don't have access to the internet. Please let me know what you think. It was my first story, so it may not be a polished or as developed as many of the others on this site.
> This goodbye scene was getting way too mushy for his taste.Well, that's not utterly surprising! Siena's influence seems to come from her sheer presence, not actions, not words. Severus is as puzzled as I am.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
It was hard to write this story from only his POV. But yes, at this point, she is a puzzle to him. Thanks for the review and esp. for reading.
I've just found this story, and I WILL continue to ch2! People are nicely in character, including our sour Potions Master. I find the last scene ooc, though. Despite Sienna being reserved all time, she'd possibly come asking, agreed. But she can't be that extroverted, all out of the blue. The only explanation I find is that she's more acquaintant with him than he knows. It would fit to the exchange at the Sorting.A secret daughter, a niece or something? Green eyes... like Lili...? Hmmm. Severus is far too friendly to someone who's stealing his time, isn't he? No matter, as said I'll continue!
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Hi
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
. I'm glad you found the story intriguing enough to continue. I hope that each chapter finds you wanting more. I wrote the first half of this story before DH came out. It was my first attempt at writting in over three decades! So my characterizations and the story as a whole improve as you get into it.You are very perceptive to realize that Sienna would not be so reserved and then suddenly throw her arms around our dour Potions Master. But she does have a secret reason. So you'll just have to keep reading to find out.Thanks for reading and reviewing.
I just discovered this story this week. I really liked the OC. It was a fun read.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Thank you so much, Rose, for leaving me a note. I'm glad you enjoyed the story.CP
Wow I really loved this story, you wove the new character in so well to the original. It's really amazing. I also adored the yoga, meditation, and spirituallity, I like to practice yoga and meditation myself (not as often as I really want too) and I thought it really gave this story great dimension. I hope to read some more of your work soon!
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Hi Lauren Marie, and thanks so much for your supportive comments. I too wish that I had more time for yoga and meditation, but I fit it in when I can. Both practices really help to relieve stress and put things into perspective.I have another story going right here on TPP. It's called "Secret Recipe," and it is a lighter tale pairing Snape and Hermione. I know that there have already been zillions of SS/HG stories written, but mine happens after the epilogue and once again follows canon. I had some fun with the way she saved his life and the way they find each other after almost 20 years. It tackles some social issues, but it lacks the spirituality of this story.Thanks again for following with me for so long. I'm so glad that you enjoyed the story.
Beautiful story. I'm sorry that it had to end. Sienna was a great character, and I'm glad that you went OC. What's great about it is that it opened up the story line rather than trapping the plot into pre-built characters. That was very refreshing... and thought-provoking. I really enjoyed it, and am looking forward to your next story.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Thanks so much,
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
. I'm so glad you enjoyed this story. I really wanted to tell it from Snape's POV, just to show how different it could be. It was a fun challenge to work around JKR's existing story, but I had the books in front of me for reference the whole way, so I stuck to canon pretty well. There is a lot of FF out there that I have not read, or course, but I have never read a story that sticks to canon and also weaves an OC romance into it for Snape. I'm sure there are some out there, but I have not come across any yet.After looking over some of the reviews that you have left for this story, I want to especially thank you for your past kind words and insightfulness. So many simply read the words for entertainment. Your responses were more spiritual, which was, of course, my ultimate goal. I have enjoyed our thought proviking exchanges during the course of this story.I don't know if you are reading my other story, "Secret Recipe," or not. It is a SS/HG fic, but it happens after the epilogue, so they are both much older. I understand why you find Hermione so annoying. So do I, but I look back on my own teenage years and feel that if I can mature and grow as a person, so can she. It is much more light-hearted than this one. So if you are looking for something entertaining, you might want to check it out.Thanks again for sticking with me.CP
Nice wrap-up, Clay. Hope you have another one planned! :)
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
I need to finish Secret Recipe before I start on anything new. RL is heating up and keeping me from my writing at the moment, but I still sneak in a little time to read other people's stories. Speaking of which, I just got a notice that "The Runner" has an update!Thanks for following along through this saga. I really appreciate your comments.CP
I'm always a little sad when a story I've enjoyed ends. This story is no exception. But I liked the ending. He and Sienna deserved the life they created.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Thanks,
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
. I'm so glad you came along with me all the way to the end. It was sad for me to end it as well. This story simply poured out of me. I carried a notebook with me everywhere and was constantly writing in it.Thanks again for sticking with me.CP
While I shouldn't be surprised that the chapter ends where it does, it just leaves me hanging on, looking for more (looks side to side, down below reveiw box...nope, no more) Hope that the next bit comes up soon, I've enjoyed the story so far.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
More will be coming soon. IMO JKR wanted him dead, but she enjoys FF so much that she purposefully wrote his death scene in an ambiguous fashion and consipicuously left out his portrait just so we would all speculate and let our imaginations run rampant.And so mine did, as you will see in the next chapter. :)I'm glad you have enjoyed the story so far. I hope that my ending does not disappoint you.
Response from RhiannonAvon (Reviewer)
Your opinion works for me =) Besides, none of us would have any fun reading/writing if she didn't leave it ambiguousLike I said, looking forward to the next bit. Up till now, nothing has been disappointing, so unless you somehow manage to completely screw up the ending, I don't think you have to worry about disappointing anyone. =)
I am sure Winky and Sienna will save the day. Nice build up to the final stages! :)
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Thanks, sunny. Winky and Sienna will certainly try to save the day, but Sienna is a healer, not a miracle worker...Read on. I don't think that the ending will disappoint you.
Well done! Sometimes love scenes go too one way or the other. Yours was dead on. Not an easy thing to do. Great job... and very romantic!
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Wow, thanks so much for the great compliment,
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
. It really means a lot to me. That was my first attempt at a graphic love scene. To tell you the truth, I wasn't very comfortable writing it, but I really like the way it turned out.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Wow, thanks so much for the great compliment,
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
. It really means a lot to me. That was my first attempt at a graphic love scene. To tell you the truth, I wasn't very comfortable writing it, but I really like the way it turned out.
He heee, I loved the last bit... The wedding and the wedding night were wonderful. And I hope he won't obliviate Minerva in the end.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
I'm sorry to tell you, but for her safety as well as theirs, Severus has no choice but to Obliviate Minerva. But there will be some residual benefits from her knowing the truth for a little while.Glad you liked it. Thanks for your comments.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
I'm sorry to tell you, but for her safety as well as theirs, Severus has no choice but to Obliviate Minerva. But there will be some residual benefits from her knowing the truth for a little while.Glad you liked it. Thanks for your comments.
I'm surprised he didn't give them both detention with Filch!
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Since Filch is a squib, I guess he didn't want to take the chance that they might pull something over on him.Thanks for reading and reviewing.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Since Filch is a squib, I guess he didn't want to take the chance that they might pull something over on him.Thanks for reading and reviewing.
How are they going to their secrets from the staff (the real staff, not the Carrows)? Won't Snape's magical signature change as he opens himself to this new awareness? Thanks for the lovely chapter and your dad's lovely lyrics.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
His spiritual experience did have an effect on him, but as you will soon see, the effect is not lasting. I doubt that it would change his magical signature enough for others to notice until he attains a more permanent spiritual perception shift. That will come, but only much later.I'm glad you liked the chapter, and especially my dad's song. :) Thanks for your supportive comments.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
His spiritual experience did have an effect on him, but as you will soon see, the effect is not lasting. I doubt that it would change his magical signature enough for others to notice until he attains a more permanent spiritual perception shift. That will come, but only much later.I'm glad you liked the chapter, and especially my dad's song. :) Thanks for your supportive comments.
My brother lives in an Ashram (which I have never visited, so it was interesting to get this peek inside one!)
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
I have been to one here in the USA, but never to India. This actually came out of my imagination. The Ashram here in Virginia is called Yogaville. It is a spralling place that covers many acres, with rollings hills, beautiful gardens, and a river on its boarder. There are dorm rooms, semi private rooms, and private facilities. There is a dining hall where everyone eats. There is a huge shrine that pays homage to all of the world's major religions. The man who started it was from India and came here several decades ago, Swami Satchidananda. His life was dedicated to bringing together people of all religions, to learn from eachother, and to celebrate their diversity as well as their common goal of enlightenment.Where does your brother live? What country?
Response from cmwinters (Reviewer)
OHMYGOD MY BROTHER *LIVES IN YOGAVILLE*!!!!*FLAIL*
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
It is truly a beautiful place. And the people are beautiful. I feel such peace when I go there. It is always hard to leave.
Response from cmwinters (Reviewer)
Yeah, it's been very good for him. He had a rough time and while we all joke about him being off playing with the fairies (he can be very . . . unreliable sometimes; he'll say he's going to do something and then doesn't do it and he doesn't seem to understand how his behaviour can impact others sometimes), we are all quite glad he is where he is because it's a place where he is okay.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Is your brother a Pisces? He sounds like a dear friend of mine that goes up there a lot, and stays for weeks at a time sometimes. I joke him because he will tell me that he will call me when he gets back and a month goes by and he doesn't call. Or he will say that he will come by and see me, but he never comes. He has a heart of gold, but he is unreliable. Time has no meaning for him. My friend is a Pisces.
Response from cmwinters (Reviewer)
Naw, he's a Sag.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
I have been to one here in the USA, but never to India. This actually came out of my imagination. The Ashram here in Virginia is called Yogaville. It is a spralling place that covers many acres, with rollings hills, beautiful gardens, and a river on its boarder. There are dorm rooms, semi private rooms, and private facilities. There is a dining hall where everyone eats. There is a huge shrine that pays homage to all of the world's major religions. The man who started it was from India and came here several decades ago, Swami Satchidananda. His life was dedicated to bringing together people of all religions, to learn from eachother, and to celebrate their diversity as well as their common goal of enlightenment.Where does your brother live? What country?
Response from cmwinters (Reviewer)
OHMYGOD MY BROTHER *LIVES IN YOGAVILLE*!!!!*FLAIL*
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
It is truly a beautiful place. And the people are beautiful. I feel such peace when I go there. It is always hard to leave.
Response from cmwinters (Reviewer)
Yeah, it's been very good for him. He had a rough time and while we all joke about him being off playing with the fairies (he can be very . . . unreliable sometimes; he'll say he's going to do something and then doesn't do it and he doesn't seem to understand how his behaviour can impact others sometimes), we are all quite glad he is where he is because it's a place where he is okay.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Is your brother a Pisces? He sounds like a dear friend of mine that goes up there a lot, and stays for weeks at a time sometimes. I joke him because he will tell me that he will call me when he gets back and a month goes by and he doesn't call. Or he will say that he will come by and see me, but he never comes. He has a heart of gold, but he is unreliable. Time has no meaning for him. My friend is a Pisces.
Response from cmwinters (Reviewer)
Naw, he's a Sag.
I really like this story. Snape and someone else was the first type of fanfiction I read, so it is the one I'm most comfortable with I think. Wonderful chapter, I like the use of Eastern thought in the story. Snape had to be overwhelmed by the idea of power that could eliminate Voldemort with a thought. But then to see an individual who had the power and wouldn't use it, that had to be really hard to take. I wonder if Dumbledore is using his private time with Babaji to try to bring him around more? Dumbledore ,like Snape, is so committed to the task of destroying Voldemort that I can't see him ever missing an opportunity to gain an advantage. And the locket, wouldn't it be wonderful to be able to talk to certain people that are gone? I wonder would this allow you to reach closure, or would the problems in a relationship during a life continue with the portrait?
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Hi,
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
, and thanks for the very insighful review.I have read eastern philosophy extensively, and with the truly wise and spiritually enlightened people, the more power they acquire, the less they want to use it. They look at life, death and suffering very differently than the people of western thought do. It is hard to imagine someone who would not be willing to use his power to destroy Voldemort, but someone with Babaji's power would indeed let karma play itself out and not interfere. So any efforts made by Dumbledore will go unheaded.As for the closure issue, I imagine that if access to the deceasded love one is on going, the problems in life would follow, growing, changing and perhaps resolving themselves. But then new issues would come up. Case in point, the interaction between Snape and Dumbledore's portrait in DH. It is as if the person is still alive, but helplessly trapped in the canvass.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Hi,
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
, and thanks for the very insighful review.I have read eastern philosophy extensively, and with the truly wise and spiritually enlightened people, the more power they acquire, the less they want to use it. They look at life, death and suffering very differently than the people of western thought do. It is hard to imagine someone who would not be willing to use his power to destroy Voldemort, but someone with Babaji's power would indeed let karma play itself out and not interfere. So any efforts made by Dumbledore will go unheaded.As for the closure issue, I imagine that if access to the deceasded love one is on going, the problems in life would follow, growing, changing and perhaps resolving themselves. But then new issues would come up. Case in point, the interaction between Snape and Dumbledore's portrait in DH. It is as if the person is still alive, but helplessly trapped in the canvass.
Finally!
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Yes, I did make you wait a long time for this. Sorry, but I felt that he wouldn't marry her until certain things fell into place.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Yes, I did make you wait a long time for this. Sorry, but I felt that he wouldn't marry her until certain things fell into place.
Poor Sev. Even Voldemort didn't know ALL his secrets! Must be disconcerting to be laid wide open like that.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
It would be disconcerting for anyone to have their mind and memories be an open book, but especially someone as secretive as our beloved Potions Master.Thanks for chiming in,
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
It would be disconcerting for anyone to have their mind and memories be an open book, but especially someone as secretive as our beloved Potions Master.Thanks for chiming in,
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
.
Wow! Great chapter! I had no idea where you were going with it. Quite the power punch from Babaji calling SS on his would-be abandonment of Sienna if Lily were to return. Babaji was done well. His presence really came through. And DD's memory... loved it! But it was the argument afterward that made this chapter fantastic. Seeing SS and DD argue was like watching two bulls in a turf battle. Whew! DD didn't give SS any ground on that one, fortunately. It's one thing to be powerful physically (or magically, in this case), but another thing when the power comes from conviction and solid priorities. Okay. Maybe that's just called wisdom. Oh, and the details were wonderful, from the covered walkway, snores, inlaid slatted screen, to a drawer full of black socks. Looking forward to hearing what Sienna has to say in counselling!
Response from color (Reviewer)
One more thing: SS's emotional development. For all of his intellectual intelligence, the fellow has next to no emotional intelligence. He just doesn't get it. Why would you abandon someone who you passionately love and who passionately loves you, and, more importantly, who *wants* to be with you, for someone else who doesn't want you that way? Goodness! This man's emotional understanding is still that of a high-school student. Dunderhead!
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
He most definitely has an arrested emotional development. But remember, he has not been able to let go of Lily because she keeps showing up in his dreams. And the dreams are very real to him. They don't fade away like regular dreams. So that has made it particularly hard for him to let go.And DD's ties to Sienna go even deeper than the friendship that has been illustrated here. You will find out how a bit later in the story. They are tied together in ways that even they don't realize yet.I am so glad you like this story. I really put my heart and soul into it when I wrote it. The words just came pouring out of me. I carried a notebook everywhere I went. Because it is not a SS/HG paring, I don't have many readers, like I do with Secret Recipe, but the ones who do read this one really seem to like it.Thanks so much for your kind and insightful review. You made my day.
Response from color (Reviewer)
I've been reading "Secret Recipe". It's a good story, but "The Potion Master's Assistant" is better. The other readers who don't read this story because its SS/OC, well, too bad for them.
Response from color (Reviewer)
One more thing: SS's emotional development. For all of his intellectual intelligence, the fellow has next to no emotional intelligence. He just doesn't get it. Why would you abandon someone who you passionately love and who passionately loves you, and, more importantly, who *wants* to be with you, for someone else who doesn't want you that way? Goodness! This man's emotional understanding is still that of a high-school student. Dunderhead!
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
He most definitely has an arrested emotional development. But remember, he has not been able to let go of Lily because she keeps showing up in his dreams. And the dreams are very real to him. They don't fade away like regular dreams. So that has made it particularly hard for him to let go.And DD's ties to Sienna go even deeper than the friendship that has been illustrated here. You will find out how a bit later in the story. They are tied together in ways that even they don't realize yet.I am so glad you like this story. I really put my heart and soul into it when I wrote it. The words just came pouring out of me. I carried a notebook everywhere I went. Because it is not a SS/HG paring, I don't have many readers, like I do with Secret Recipe, but the ones who do read this one really seem to like it.Thanks so much for your kind and insightful review. You made my day.
Response from color (Reviewer)
I've been reading "Secret Recipe". It's a good story, but "The Potion Master's Assistant" is better. The other readers who don't read this story because its SS/OC, well, too bad for them.
What an interesting chapter. Severus is so very western in his thinking, I can see the look on his face when the seemingly young man spoke to him as though he were a child. As for Dumbledore and the kiss, I knew a couple of gay guys that were damn good kissers. (One kissed me to make me feel better, the other did it to make a point.) As young as Sienna is, she probably didn't realize why it felt off. This is such a great story.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Thanks so much,
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
. Yeah, I'm sure that I am not the only girl who has been kissed by a gay guy.I am so very glad that you are enjoying my story. It doesn't have a large number of fans because it is not a SS/HG fic, but the few readers that follow it seem to really enjoy it, and that means so much to me.Thanks for reading and reviewing.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Thanks so much,
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
. Yeah, I'm sure that I am not the only girl who has been kissed by a gay guy.I am so very glad that you are enjoying my story. It doesn't have a large number of fans because it is not a SS/HG fic, but the few readers that follow it seem to really enjoy it, and that means so much to me.Thanks for reading and reviewing.
This is a very nice chapter and a wonderful use of Winky.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
I love Winky. She comes in very handy for the rest of the story.Thanks for chiming in,
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
, the reviews keep me going.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
I love Winky. She comes in very handy for the rest of the story.Thanks for chiming in,
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
, the reviews keep me going.
Sounds like the Headmaster's bedroom is a version of the Room of Requirement. Hum. Severus considering marriage already? Nice to see how completely his hesitancy has ended.Good job!
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
People tend to accelerate their private lives during war time because they never know if this day will be their last. He has known her (and loved her) for years, but now that she is through with school, he feels free to express those feelings.Thanks so much for your kind review. I'm glad you are enjoying the story.
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
People tend to accelerate their private lives during war time because they never know if this day will be their last. He has known her (and loved her) for years, but now that she is through with school, he feels free to express those feelings.Thanks so much for your kind review. I'm glad you are enjoying the story.
So who does Winky obey? Severus or Sienna?
Response from ClayPotter (Author of The Potion Master's Assistant)
Winky is a free elf. She will do what she thinks is best for all concerned. But she is not the only one...