Thank Heaven for Chocolate
Chapter 9 of 31
ClayPotterSeverus asks Sienna to teach him her hands-on Healing technique.
Reviewed“Thank Heaven for Chocolate, Both Dark and Light,
But Even Chocolate Can’t Put Everything Right”
Mrs. Kaolin regrettably left the next day, but she and Dumbledore promised to keep in touch. Sienna told Severus that she didn’t get back to the dorm again until two a.m., and she seemed to be glowing, even thought she insisted that nothing romantic had transpired. Dumbledore gave her a quick kiss on the lips when they said their goodbyes, which tickled Sienna. Her mum had never dated after her father died.
The rest of the break passed way too quickly. At one point Severus had to run an errand for Dumbledore, but the rest of the time they busied themselves making loose copies of all the deadly potions and antidotes in the antique book. Severus’ experience let him match up several pairs right away, and there were many that he thought he could match up just by looking at the ingredients, but they would still need to be tested. That left almost half the deadly potions with no known antidote, which meant that they had a lot of work to do.
Umbridge returned from the break with a freshly renewed desire to meddle and control. She put so much pressure on Trelawney and Hagrid that they could no longer do their jobs effectively. She warned Severus that his students were “too prepared” and advanced for their years, and reminded him to stick to the Ministry of Magic's approved program.
One Tuesday afternoon, Umbridge was snooping around in Severus’ classroom and checking out the school's Potions equipment. He stayed to watch her every move, and the time slipped by him. It was after 3:30 when Sienna wandered in, and Umbridge was concealed from her view inside the storage closet. Severus stood in the closet doorway, with his back to the classroom entrance, so he didn’t see Sienna come in.
“There you are,” she remarked casually. “I thought we were supposed to be working in your office today.”
Severus turned on his heel to face Sienna and motioned with his hands to be quiet. But it was too late. Umbridge heard her comment and emerged from the closet.
“Working?”
Sienna was mortified.
“And what might you be working on with Professor Snape, dear? Miss Caroline is it?”
“Miss Kaolin,” Severus corrected her through clenched teeth.
“Ahhh… I was having trouble with one of my potions, and he offered to help me figure out where I’m going wrong,” Sienna lied.
“How good of you, Professor Snape, to take the time. My students don’t need to ask me for extra help.” Umbridge smiled her sickening little smile. “I guess I’m a more effective teacher than you are.”
Severus’ blood began to boil. They don’t ask for your help because they know you’re incapable of helping them… They don’t ask for your help because you haven’t taught them anything… They don’t need help because they can all read… They don’t want your help because they can tell that you’re a moron… He could think of a hundred retorts, but he held his tongue and addressed Sienna. “I wasn’t aware that Professor Umbridge would be inspecting my class stores this afternoon, Miss Kaolin. Perhaps we can do it on Thursday afternoon instead.”
“Very well, sir.” Sienna smiled at him. He didn’t smile back.
“Run along, dear,” dripped Umbridge. “We’re busy.”
“Right, later then.” When she left the room, Severus let out an inaudible sigh of relief.
*****
By the time February arrived, Umbridge didn’t seem interested in Severus anymore. She had zeroed in on Trelawney. Severus had a feeling that Sibyll’s days were numbered. Sienna was much more careful when she came in from then on. She made sure she wasn’t followed by anyone, and she quietly caught Severus’ eye before she spoke. He began to think that giving her Legilimency lessons would be a good idea so they could communicate nonverbally, but he was afraid to bring up the incident from Christmas again.
As the next Hogsmeade weekend was Valentine’s Day weekend, the older students all seemed to be pairing up. Severus’ curiosity finally got the best of him, and he asked Sienna who she was going with, hoping of course that the answer would be “no one.” When that indeed was her answer, he pushed a bit further and volunteered to brew her up a love potion to slip to someone.
To his pleasant surprise, she gave him a shy smile and said, “It would be a waste of time, unless you are willing to slip yourself a few drops.”
She was flirting with him! And although that was the answer he had inwardly wished for, he was not expecting it and didn’t know quite how to react. To flirt back would be inappropriate in his opinion, so he smiled inwardly and remained silent.
After an uncomfortable pause Sienna added, “I was just going to Honeydukes for some chocolate. I’ve never been to Hogsmeade. And I’ve heard that the chocolate from Honeydukes is the best anywhere. As you know, I love chocolate.”
“You’ve been here for almost two years and you’ve never been to Hogsmeade? Won’t your mum sign the permission slip?”
“Oh, no, I just turned 19. I don’t need a permission slip.”
“That’s right. You’ve been of age since you came to us. Just turned 19? When was your birthday?”
“February third.”
“Mine was back in January. The ninth actually.”
“Can I bring you back some chocolate? I know you use it in some of your remedies.”
“I’ll have to check my stores, but I think I’m set for now. Thanks anyway.”
*****
Two days later, Sienna was standing in line with the rest of the students who were waiting for Filch to check them off the list so they could go to Hogsmeade. When he got to Sienna, he noticed that she was not on the permission slip list.
“That’s because I’m of age and I can come and go as I please. I don’t need a permission slip!”
“Likely story – prove it.”
“Ask Professor Dumbledore, or McGonagall – I’m 19 years old!”
“Sorry, both of them are busy at the moment. No slip, no trip.”
“I’m here, Filch,” came a familiar voice from over Sienna’s shoulder, “and she’s coming with me. Let her through.” Severus came around the line to face Filch. “She is of age, by the way.”
“So sorry, Professor Snape. I’m sure the Headmaster will clear all this up when he’s free.”
“He doesn’t have to – I just DID!” Severus leaned closer to Filch’s face with the word DID. Filch backed down, cowering slightly. “Come on, Miss Kaolin.”
The students still in line stared in disbelief. Severus had never gone out of his way to help a student before. He usually tried to add to their misery.
They walked out the door and up the hill towards Hogsmeade. “Thanks so much, Professor. I owe you one...”
“Not at all, Miss Kaolin. I found myself running low on chocolate and thought a trip to Honeydukes was in order after all.”
And so they headed to Honeydukes where Sienna was amazed at the selection. She sampled several varieties and bought a box with four different kinds within. To her surprise, Severus purchased a box of her favorite kind and handed it to her.
“Happy belated birthday,” he said, trying to look as if buying chocolate for a young lady was an everyday occurrence. He felt that to use Valentine’s Day as an excuse for the gift would be inappropriate. He then purchased another large bag for his stores. As they exited the shop Severus suggested a trip across the street to Zonko's. “I have to keep up with the latest gags so I know what to expect from the troublemakers. Know your enemies, I always say.”
After an amazing inspection of Zonko's, they headed back to Hogwarts. “I made a Valentine’s Day card for you, Professor.”
“A homemade card?” He replied, a note of disgust in his voice.
“I can see you’re waiting on pins and needles for it.” Sienna laughed. “Perhaps I should just chuck it in the fire when I get back to save you the trouble.”
“N--no,” he stammered. “I didn’t mean anything – I’m sure it’s fine. Did you create it with magic?” He started to turn slightly pink and tried to think of a graceful way to change the subject.
“Nope, no magic. A Muggle method I learned at the Ashram. It’s called ‘one stroke painting.’ It’s an ancient Chinese technique.”
“Then I’m sure it’s lovely. I look forward to seeing it,” he said with relief. Another awkward moment. This romance stuff was hard work.
As they made their way up the hill towards the castle, a thought suddenly came to him. “Remember the end of last year when you used a hands-on technique to heal me?”
“How could I forget? You were in such a state! It was frightening. The letter you sent said you hoped I would teach you.”
“You do remember.”
“Since you hadn’t mentioned it, I assumed you were either too busy, or not as interested as your letter implied, so I just let it go.”
“Oh, no, I’m very interested. I had thought at one time that I might become a Healer, and I still read the trades. But from what Dumbledore described, this is something unfamiliar to the wizarding world.”
“No, it’s a Muggle technique that involves concentrating your mind and directing your life force energy into a specific area to speed its healing.”
“How does it do with tense back muscles and headaches?”
“Quite well, actually. Why do you ask?”
“Because I may have use of your services when we get back, if you can spare a few minutes.”
“A demonstration? With you as the patient?”
“If that doesn’t make you too uncomfortable.”
Sienna smiled a coy smile and began to blush. “It doesn’t bother me, but I’m not the one who has to take my shirt off!”
Severus scowled with alarm. “That would be totally inappropriate!” he insisted as his posture stiffened.
“You didn’t seem to mind last spring when I helped you through whatever was causing your nightmarish hallucinations.”
Severus became even more alarmed. He lowered his voice almost to a whisper. “You mean to tell me that you’ve seen me without my shirt on?”
“I had Filch and Dumbledore strip you down to your underpants.”
Severus was mortified. “Was that really necessary?”
“Every inch of your body was in pain,” she said matter-of-factly. “I needed access to all of it.”
Severus turned pink, then red, then added just a hint of purple for good measure. He was so embarrassed he was speechless. He had no idea she had seen, much less touched, every inch of him. The ideas that began to run through his head caused him even more embarrassment, and more than a touch of shame. Deep down inside, he wished he had been awake for the procedure. Now he had to fight his conscience to decide if it would be allowable to take his shirt off once again, so she could teach him the technique and ease his aching head and back in the process. He finally decided that last spring was an emergency, and he was out of the decision making loop, so the situation was very different. It would be grossly inappropriate to take his shirt off in her presence this time.
“No one will be taking any clothes off this afternoon,” Severus stated emphatically.
“Well, you won’t get the full effect on your back muscles, but I can still get rid of your headache.” She sounded detached and professional, which helped to ease his embarrassment.
“Will this work in my office?”
“If I am to do anything for your back, you have to be laying face down somewhere comfortable. So you tell me.”
Severus gave her a sideways glance. Was this some kind of ploy? She seemed totally nonchalant, as if she couldn’t care less one way or the other. “Then I guess it’s my quarters,” he admitted with great apprehension.
As they approached the door to his private quarters, he looked both ways to be sure no one saw them enter together. He was still very uncomfortable about this. Why did I have to open my big mouth? They entered quickly, and then he locked the door with a very complicated Locking charm, then added a Muffliato spell for good measure. He finally turned to her as his face began to redden. “Since my love seat isn’t long enough, I guess it’s the bed chamber. If you ever tell anyone about this…” He looked at her threateningly, but she didn’t flinch or bat an eyelash.
“Do you want to feel better or don’t you?”
The headache had been lingering for days, even with the aid of pain medication from Madam Pomfrey. The backache had been with him for months. He was tired of feeling this way. It was as if he had forgotten how to relax. He finally let his guard down just a little. “Yes,” he said simply.
“Then take your shirt off! If you were at St. Mungo’s and I was a professional Healer, you wouldn’t hesitate. I’ve seen your tattoo. It’s almost as ugly as my brand. Get over it. Let’s move on!”
Severus was surprised by her candor. He obediently removed his black shirt, then his white shirt, and laid them on the bed. Then he laid himself face down as she climbed up and sat on the bed beside him and started to work her Muggle magic. At first it felt like a simple massage. But then he realized that there was much more to it. Everywhere her hands met his skin, the pain drained out of his body. As she pushed his muscles around with her surprisingly strong fingers, they immediately relaxed and the knots untied themselves. He had been so uptight with Umbridge around and the Dark Lord calling on him, he could hardly walk from the pain.
When she finished with his back, she started on his neck. That was the first step in getting rid of the headache. Then she asked him to turn over. He felt a bit self conscious in doing so, and pulled his black shirt up over his chest. She ignored his modesty and worked his collarbone area, then his neck, and finally his face. He closed his eyes and tried to relax. It was much easier after the back had been worked on. She caressed and massaged his face, his temples, and his eye sockets. Then she moved her fingertips to the top of his head. Ahhh! Relief at last! Did her lips touch his forehead again? Yes, they were definitely planted firmly just above the bridge of his nose. After a few moments she lifted her lips off of his head and lightly brushed them over his cheek.
“Happy Valentine’s Day, Severus,” she whispered. His eyes were still closed. He assumed at this point that she would quietly let herself out, but he suddenly felt her lips on his for just a brief moment.
His eyes popped open in alarm.
“I--” she stammered. “I’m sorry. I thought you had fallen asleep.” This time it was her turn to become embarrassed.
“I was afraid something like this would happen,” he replied sternly. He sat up in the bed and let his shirt fall into his lap. As he stared deep into her pale blue-gray eyes, he felt the warmth of her love wash over him. He had forgotten what it felt like to be truly loved by a woman. The love he felt from Lily in his dreams was like an echo of the love they had shared when she was still alive. More than anything he wanted to pull Sienna to him and keep her there all night. But his conscience wouldn’t allow it.
As all of these things were running through his mind, Sienna reached towards his bare chest. He quickly intercepted her and brought her hands together in his. He glared at her, not with anger, but with concern. He could see the longing in her eyes as he felt drenched in years of pent up desire. He knew his will power wouldn’t last much longer. Without breaking their intense eye contact, Severus slowly shook his head. Then he brought her fingertips to his lips, and he noticed that she was trembling. “You had better leave before we do something we will both deeply regret.”
“I could never regret being with you.” He could tell she wanted to stay as much as he wanted her to. But one of them had to be strong.
“You are a student. I am your teacher. That is the way it has to be, at least until you graduate,” he said firmly.
She looked so disappointed it was almost heartbreaking. He decided the best course of action was to change the subject and give them both something else to focus on.
“Do you have any books on this Muggle healing technique that you could loan me?”
"Oh, yes. I think you will find one in particular most helpful. But I learned most of it at the Ashram, with hands on practice and training.”
“Perhaps next time we can find someone in the hospital wing in need of your services.”
She sighed and nodded sadly. She somehow knew there would be no more one-on-one sessions between them. Severus watched her with a heavy heart as she gathered her cloak and her chocolate from Honeydukes. He had just finished buttoning his black top shirt when she turned back to him.
“I’ll bring the books to dinner tonight.”
“Thanks.”
“Thanks for the chocolate.”
“Don’t mention it.”
Sienna looked once again into the infinite depths of his coal black eyes. She reached up and gently caressed his face. “Severus, I want you to know that I’m in lo--”
“Don’t say it,” he interrupted her as he put his fingers to her lips. “You’re only making it harder.” He mustered his emotional fortitude and steeled his resolve. “This is the way it has to be. Someday you’ll understand that I have your best interests at heart. You’ll see. I promise.”
He opened the door and peeked out. “All clear,” he said with a faint bittersweet smile. He watched with deep regret as she swept out the door in silence.
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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...