Christmas with Mum
Chapter 8 of 31
ClayPotterSeverus asks for Dumbledore's advice to smooth things over with Seinna.
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 8
"Christmas with Mum, What a Treat,
But Dumbledore Should Be Discrete"
Sienna was right, of course, Severus had not been ready to see the scene with the two of them by the lake. He didn't know what to think. It was only a vision after all, so that didn't mean it would really come true. It could be like a dream. Sometimes dreams were prophetic, sometimes they weren't, but with the exception of his dreams with Lily, they usually dealt with symbols. This was so real. Could he have just seen his future? It was an appealing future. He honestly didn't think he would live long enough to see gray come into his hair, with the precarious position he had put himself in between Lord Voldemort and Dumbledore. It was nice to think he could come out alive, after all.
Severus sipped his hangover potion. A touch of ginger! That wasn't in the recipe. Another one of her finishing touches. He drained the mug, walked over to the fire and ladled more into it. Then he took the mug, locked the office door (effectively this time), and slowly made his way back to his quarters. He would ask Dumbledore about the vision. Dumbledore could help him sort things out.
Severus didn't make it to breakfast. He lay in bed, giving the potion plenty of time to work. Then he slowly made his way to the shower and got dressed. By then it was time for lunch. He dreaded seeing Sienna again, since the table was so small he knew it was unavoidable. But he needn't have worried; she didn't show up. When she didn't show at dinner either, Dumbledore asked Severus if he knew why.
"Yes, well, if you have a few minutes after dinner, I think I can explain."
So when dinner was over they headed up to Dumbledore's office where they settled into their respective chairs. "Brandy?" offered Dumbledore.
"No thanks." Severus took a deep breath and started talking. He decided to tell Dumbledore about the previous night as well, so Dumbledore would know that nothing naughty had transpired.
"You mean you had her alone, with a bottle of cognac, and you didn't take her back to your quarters?"
"Of course not, sir. I wouldn't dream of such a thing," Severus said stiffly.
"Well, you're a better man than I am, Severus. If I was 50 years younger, you'd have some competition for her."
"Headmaster!" Severus looked very surprised. He had never seen this side of Dumbledore before. There was a twinkle in his pale blue eyes, a very mischievous twinkle.
"You know, I think she fancies you, Severus."
"I know, but she's a student and I am her teacher. Anything beyond a mild friendship between us would be... inappropriate."
"Not necessarily," Dumbledore informed him. "There are several examples in Hogwarts, A History where it is noted that teachers have actually married their students, who have come of age, of course. The first was in 1435 when Dilbert Dinglebatt, the Transfiguration teacher, married Emmaline Mayberry. There have been several others. The last as recent as 1939. You can look them up for yourself, if you like.
"Yes, well, that brings me to the rest of my story. It's not just that I found out that she fancies me this morning, but the way I found out." Severus continued, giving Dumbledore the sordid details. He was not usually this candid with anyone, and found himself very uncomfortable describing the scene, but he was in the dark on what to do. He knew he had really screwed things up between them, and he didn't trust himself to do the right thing on his own.
"Well," Dumbledore grinned from ear to ear. "Now I know why she came to me this morning asking for Occlumency lessons."
"You saw her this morning?" Severus became alarmed. "What did she tell you?"
"Nothing. She only asked for the lessons. I suggested that she ask you, but she insisted that she wanted to learn it from me instead. So I gave her her first lesson this morning right after breakfast."
Severus grew curious and had to ask, "How did she do?"
"Excellent. She's a natural. I think it's all that meditation that makes it very easy for her to clear her mind and concentrate. It only took her about three tries to keep me out. And I was really trying hard to get anything I could out of her. Very impressive."
"Will you be teaching her Legilimency as well?"
"She didn't ask. Maybe after the two of you kiss and make up, she'll ask you." Dumbledore chuckled.
Severus scowled. He didn't like the reference to kissing. He was here, after all, for some advice on the subject of making up, not making out.
Dumbledore could sense Severus' irritation and growing impatience. "Severus," his tone changed to a serious one, "if I were you, I'd give her some space. Let her cool off a bit."
Severus nodded in silence. He felt the need to study his shoelaces. "How long should I give her?"
"Well, I know she is taking her meals in the Gryffindor common room until her mother comes tomorrow night. Maybe after her mother leaves she will return to the Great Hall to eat, and it will be a sign that she's ready to forgive you."
Severus heaved a heavy sigh. Several silent minutes passed.
"She believes that true friendship is the purest form of love," Dumbledore informed him.
"Another product of her life at the Ashram?"
"Most likely," affirmed Dumbledore. "And she told me that any kind of lasting relationship must have a true, unconditional friendship as its foundation, if it is to last."
Severus had heard those words before. "She's wise for one so young." Yet another trait he had grown fond of.
"Don't worry, Severus," Dumbledore assured his friend. "Her friendship for you is unconditional."
Severus looked up, tired and still sad, but very grateful for the unconditional friend who sat before him. "Thank you, sir." He got up to leave.
"You're a lucky man, Severus. A friend like that is a rare and beautiful gift."
Severus nodded again in silence. "Good night, sir."
"Good night, Severus. Sleep well."
Severus descended the spiral staircase.
Later that night, as Severus lay in bed, he thought about Sienna's vision. As he drifted off into a light sleep, he dreamed of himself kissing Sienna by the Black Lake. But as his sleep grew deeper, Sienna dissolved and Lily materialized in her place. They pulled apart enough to gaze into one another's eyes.
"Hello, Severus, my love."
"Lily." He looked at her with joy and amazement, but then remembered that he had started out kissing Sienna, and a wave of guilt hit him so hard he let go of Lily altogether and turned away. He was confused. She had been absent from his dreams for so long now, he had thought perhaps she had abandoned him. How would she feel about his desires for Sienna?
"Are you angry with me?"
"Why on earth would I be angry?"
"Because of Sienna, of course."
"Well, I must admit that when you used Legilimency on her I felt that was out of line, but I'm not angry about it. She has a right to be, though."
Severus stared at her in disbelief. "You saw that? You know about that?"
"Of course."
"Then you must know how I feel about her."
"Yes. I hope you're planning to apologize to her. Otherwise, you'll ruin everything."
"So she doesn't bother you?"
"Of course not, silly. All I've ever wanted was for you and Harry to be safe and happy. I think she's wonderful. And if you don't apologize and make it up to her, you're a real BONEHEAD!"
"But, what about you?"
Lily smiled. Her emerald green eyes sparkled with love for him. "I'll always be with you, Severus." She reached up with her hands to gently hold his face. They gazed deeply into each other's eyes. Severus noticed a look there that he had seen before... an infinite wisdom, that gave him the feeling of protection... that no matter what happened, it was all for the best. "We are all one in spirit, Severus. If you let yourself go, you will feel me inside you; you'll be able to see me in her as well."
"Is she why you have been away for so long? You wanted to give me a chance with her?"
"You have been living in the past too long, holding on to me too tightly. Sienna has the ability to make you very happy. But you have to let her in. I searched a long time before I found the right girl. Who do you think planted that vision in her mind?"
"You planned all this?"
"Right from the start." Lily looked gloatingly pleased with herself.
"But I love you. How could you push me into someone else's arms?"
"Because I want you to be happy. Living in the past, in love with a ghost, has made you bitter, angry. You're not the Severus I fell in love with. You need someone to pull the good back to the surface. Sienna can do that."
"She can, can't she?" he smiled as he remembered the many times Sienna had pulled him out of a sour mood.
"I'm going to stay in the background for a while, my love, in hope that you can put your love for me in its proper perspective and move on with your life. You need something to look forward to, something worth surviving this war for."
Severus nodded. "Sienna," he said simply.
"Things will get much darker for you before they get better. You'll need something much more tangible than me to get you through it."
"Sienna," he whispered again.
"If you give her a chance, you'll find all the love I ever gave you wrapped up in her eyes. Trust me, Severus"
"Sienna," he mumbled.
"Go to her, apologize. Win her back. You already have her heart in your hands. Take care of it, nurture it, and feel it grow one with your own."
"One heart?"
"Yours and Sienna's."
"Sienna," he whispered, over and over, as his sleep grew deeper, and Lily slowly faded from view.
*****
Christmas Eve arrived, and with it Sienna's mother. She was an attractive older woman with curly salt and pepper hair, hazel eyes, and a warm smile for everyone when Dumbledore introduced her around the dinner table. For old time's sake, Sienna had given her a tour of the castle during the afternoon. Somehow, they never made it to the dungeon to see where Sienna and Severus had previously spent so much time together. He wondered painfully if those days were over.
When Dumbledore introduced Severus, he bowed graciously. "Oh, Professor Snape!" exclaimed Mrs. Kaolin. "What a pleasure to finally meet you!"
Severus noticed that Sienna looked uncomfortable. She obviously had not told her mother what was going on.
"Charmed." Severus forced a smile, then stole a glance at Sienna, but she wouldn't look at him.
"We ran out of time on our tour today. Sienna wanted to save the best for last, I'm sure. You don't mind if we come down tomorrow, do you?"
"You're welcome any time, ma'am," Severus said sincerely.
"Oh, I can hardly wait. Sienna has told me so much about you."
Severus forced another smile. He could tell that Sienna was in as much pain as he was. There had to be a way to make it right.
He noticed that the other students at the far end of the table were whispering, but he could only imagine what the conversation was about. Did they know something? Had the portraits blabbed?
Once everyone settled into their seats, Sienna was across from Dumbledore, flanked by her mum and Flitwick. Severus sat on the end, next to Mrs. Kaolin and across from Hagrid. Although Sienna barely said two words, her mother kept the conversation going through most of dinner. Mrs. Kaolin insisted on telling anyone who would listen about the Muggle Ashram in India that Sienna had attended, their philosophies, their rituals, their rules. Although Dumbledore seemed to hang on her every word, Severus listened politely, but found much of it too far-fetched for his taste. But until that night, he hadn't realized that Sienna was a vegetarian. He just never paid attention to what she was eating.
When everyone seemed nearly finished with their meal, Dumbledore stood up to say a few words and tapped the side of his glass with his spoon to get everyone's attention. "Now that our bellies are all full," he said as he looked from face to face, his sky blue eyes twinkling, "I would like to propose a toast to our guest, Mrs. Kaolin." Dumbledore's eyes landed on her, and she smiled widely back at him, beaming as Severus had seen Sienna do on occasion. "We want to thank you so much for making the long journey to visit us, but we also especially want to thank you for sending us your daughter. She is a true delight." He held up his glass and looked around for everyone to do the same. He noticed that several glasses were empty, but with a wave of his hand, that was remedied.
"Here, here," came the general murmur from the teachers.
Another wave from Dumbledore's hand and the dirty plates were replaced by crackers down the center of the table. From the way they were facing, each was to be pulled by the two people sitting across from each other. Severus rolled his eyes and let out a low groan. Not this again. And there was no avoiding it.
"Guess I got you, Severus," Hagrid chuckled.
"Grab one end of your cracker, everyone." Sienna grabbed one end of hers, Dumbledore grabbed the other. "On the count of three. One, two... three!"
Explosions erupted around the table as the crackers went off all at once. The one between Severus and Hagrid let out some fireworks that looked like they could have come from Zonko's Joke Shop. They zoomed around the room throwing off little sparks and squeaky sounds, but nothing that anyone needed to run from. Some of the fireworks from Zonko's were known to be carnivorous! Mrs. Kaolin's and Professor McGonagall's let loose a flock of tiny silver birds that fluttered around the room. Dumbledore pulled hard on his end while Sienna pulled on hers, but the thing wouldn't break apart. Then suddenly it finally popped, almost sending the two to the floor. Sienna's end turned into a bouquet of red roses and Dumbledore's turned into a bottle of cognac. Severus couldn't help but see the hint he felt Dumbledore was trying to give him, and he almost smiled.
After the room calmed down a bit, Dumbledore leaned over towards Sienna and said something that Severus couldn't hear. Sienna smiled and nodded. Then he asked Mrs. Kaolin if she would like to come with him up to his office for a nightcap. She accepted. Hagrid, McGonagall, Flitwick, and the students all got up to leave at about the same time, and Severus was there alone with Sienna once again. They sat there staring at their shoes for a moment. Severus wasn't sure what he should do. Dumbledore had suggested that he give Sienna until after her mother left. Should he say something now? He looked at her face, in hope of finding some guidance there, but she still seemed fascinated with her shoes. After what felt like an eternity, she stood up to leave.
"Wait!" Severus reached across the space that her mother had occupied only a short time before. He was aiming for Sienna's hand, but she pulled it out of reach. "Can we talk for a moment?" He continued to search her face.
She turned to look at him in icy silence. Her eyes were expressionless. That was an Occlumency face if he'd ever seen one.
"Once again, I would like to offer my deepest apologies for my unforgivable behavior." Severus held his breath. Apologizing, something he had never done in the past, was lately becoming a habit.
"I felt... violated."
The resentment that resonated in her voice sent a chill down Severus' spine. This wasn't going to be easy. "I know how invasive it can feel, believe me. But I didn't mean it that way." He chose his words carefully. He knew he was treading on thin ice. "I was hoping to share the memory, not steal it."
"Then ask permission next time." She glared at him.
"You're right, of course, that's what I should have done. But I just wanted to share your moment. After all, I was part of it. I wanted to feel the beauty that you were feeling. I have very few beautiful memories of my own to draw from." He was hoping for a little sympathy from this last statement, even though it was unfortunately very true.
Sienna's expression remained combative. Severus waited anxiously for a softer reply, but none was given. He sighed heavily, feeling defeated.
"Well, I don't know what else to say. I'm sorry. Take it or leave it. Happy Christmas," he mumbled as he got up to leave the room.
This time it was Sienna's turn. "Wait!"
He turned towards her, the slightest ray of hope in his heart.
Her expression had melted from ice to warmth, and she was shaking her head slowly back and forth. "I just can't stay mad at you. It hurts too much."
Thank you, God, Severus thought to himself. He held out his arms and she rushed into them. "We'd better not get used to this, you know," he told her. "It has to stop when Umbridge gets back."
"I was afraid you were going to say that," she smiled up at him. "You know, when I was storming out of your office yesterday, you called me by my first name."
"Sorry."
"No, actually, I rather liked it. I would prefer that you call me by my first name. You're not just my teacher, you're my best friend."
A warm wave washed over Severus. Only Lily had ever referred to him as "best friend." "Only when we're alone. Then you may call me Severus. But no one, I mean NO one must hear you refer to me that way. Understand?"
"Yes," she glanced quickly around the room and then added, "Severus."
A faint smirk spread across his face. "Butterbeer, my office?"
"I thought you'd never ask."
*****
On Christmas morning, Severus woke up to find two presents at the foot of his bed. He had only expected one. Dumbledore gave all of his staff a little something every year. But this year there were two. Curious, he reached down and pulled them both up on the bed. The first one was soft and squishy. He knew right away that this was from Dumbledore. A package of black socks. Every year. He didn't even have to open it. He smiled as he pushed it aside to pick up the second package. This one was very heavy, about 18 inches square and three inches thick. It must be a book, he thought as he tore into the package. Yes, his favorite gift. But he had so many already, would this be a duplicate? No, he realized as he flipped it over to see the front cover. It was leather bound and very, very old. This came from an antique book store. It was a potions book, Deadly Potions and Their Antidotes by Marcus Gilberton. He gently started to turn the pages. Sure enough, on the delicately aged parchment within were dark potions on the left and antidotes on the right. Some of them he was familiar with, others not. It was fascinating. And he knew it would be useful. He saw no card, but he knew who it must be from. Only Sienna would know how much he would love this.
As Severus flipped through the pages of his new old book, he came across a note after all. It was in Sienna's handwriting. It read:
Dear Severus,
In History of Magic Class, Professor Binns mentioned this book. He said that the wizard who wrote it was a dark wizard and quite a controversial figure in his day. Upon its release, the book was touted as a milestone, and the information in it was supposed to save many lives. But although the title is accurate, it is also misleading. The deadly potions are not necessarily across from their antidotes. The order is all mixed up. It is up to the reader to do his own experimentation and testing to see which antidotes go with which deadly potions. Many people have died relying on this book for help. I thought it would be a fun challenge to try and match up the proper antidotes with each of their deadly counterparts, and publish a "key," so to speak, for the book. But even if the prospect of that project doesn't interest you, I hope you still enjoy looking it over. Just remember not to rely on the information inside.
With Love,
Your Friend,
Sienna
Severus' interest was piqued. He could hardly wait to start testing. He could actually look at the ingredients of some of the antidotes and know that they wouldn't work with the deadly potion on the opposite page. But for others he had no idea. This would definitely take some time, and what a fun way to spend the hours. This was the perfect gift. But then he started to feel guilty because he had only bought her a box of chocolates.
*****
At breakfast, Severus sat next to Sienna. He noticed that her mother sat next to Dumbledore. He wondered how long she had stayed with him last night. Sienna hadn't left his office until just after midnight. They had spent the time talking and laughing, telling stories about growing up. Most of the stories came from Sienna. Sometimes they were not so happy. But after the years pass, one can usually find humor in almost anything.
Everyone was talking about what they had found at the foot of their beds this morning. Sienna had also received socks from Dumbledore, and of course the chocolate from Severus. Her mother had given her a new sweater. She had written about how cold the castle was becoming as the winter set in. Mrs. Kaolin announced that she had received a rare bottle of cognac and an invitation to share it with the person she received it from, Professor Dumbledore. As she said this she started blushing. Sienna leaned over and whispered to Severus that her mum didn't get back to the dorm until two a.m.! Severus raised his eyebrows at this and glanced at Dumbledore like a father would look at his misbehaving son.
When Severus thanked Sienna sincerely for the book, she admitted that it was hopefully for both of them, because she would have just as much fun trying to decipher its contents as he would.
"How on earth did you find it?" Severus asked.
"Actually, I had help from Hermione Granger," Sienna explained. "I had already exhausted my possibilities in Great Britain and had to search abroad. I believe that once it was discovered that the book was killing people, it was banned here and all the copies destroyed. So I asked Hermione to see if Viktor Krum could look around in Bulgaria. He came across one in an antique bookstore there, and he sent it to her."
Severus looked a little irritated at this. "So we both owe Granger yet another favor. Her, of all people."
"I know you don't like her because she's a know-it-all, but she really is nice once you get to know her, and she's always willing to help if she can."
"A little too willing, if you ask me."
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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...