Umbridge on the Rampage
Chapter 10 of 31
ClayPotterAfter Dumbledore disappears, Umbridge gets even more power hungry.
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 10
"Umbridge on the Rampage, Gets Into Trouble,
Help on the Way, But Not on the Double"
As winter turned to spring, the situation worsened at Hogwarts, with Umbridge actually firing Trelawney and putting Hagrid on probation. Then the worst possible scenario played itself out: the defensive club that Harry, Ron and Hermione had started, nicknamed Dumbledore's Army, was discovered. As a result, Dumbledore took the blame and was forced to disappear into the underground. This entire development irritated Severus to no end. He had told Sienna that meeting for that purpose was a mistake, and this new development illustrated why. Although McGonagall, as Deputy Headmistress, should have been made temporary Headmistress, the Ministry of Magic put Umbridge in charge instead, and there was nothing Severus could do about it.
On her first day with this new authority, Umbridge requested Veritaserum from Severus to get information out of Potter. And although he would have enjoyed being a fly on the wall during the interrogation, he knew that Harry must not be made to reveal his many secrets. So Severus gave Umbridge fake Veritaserum, and after a pleasant afternoon tea with Potter which should have had him spilling his guts to her, she came up empty-handed, but none the wiser about Severus.
As much as the Weasley twins usually annoyed Severus with their antics, he was actually quite impressed to see the homemade fireworks display that kept Umbridge and Filch busy for an entire afternoon. He made a mental note not to torment them in class as long as they kept up the good work creating mayhem in the corridors.
Severus had been attempting to teach Potter Occlumency since Christmas break, and he continued with limited success even in Dumbledore's absence. As usual, at the beginning of each lesson, he removed a few of his most private memories to the Pensieve before they began. But when Severus was called away to help Umbridge get Montague out of a toilet on the fourth floor during the next lesson, he never dreamed he would return to his office to find Potter invading the memories he had left in the Pensieve. He was so enraged that he threw Potter out of his office and told him never to return. He knew that was not what Dumbledore would want, however. It was of the utmost importance that Harry learned to keep the Dark Lord out of his mind. But Severus felt, after that humiliating episode, that he could no longer teach Harry anything one on one. It would be bad enough suffering through Potions class with him for the rest of the year.
He had to do something, though, because Dumbledore wouldn't want him to give up. Perhaps he could ask Sienna for help. His opportunity came on Friday evening after dinner. Severus was leaving the Great Hall when Sienna walked up beside him. She looked over her shoulder to be sure Umbridge was nowhere around.
"You know, now that Professor Dumbledore is gone, I have no one to talk with on Friday nights."
Severus looked down at her. He knew where this was leading. He was still in such a bad mood from what Potter had done that he didn't want to risk taking it out on the only friend he had left at Hogwarts. But Sienna did have an uncanny way of lifting his spirits.
She continued, "Do you think you could suffer through the constant chattering of a feeble-minded teenage girl?"
"No," he replied, raising his eyebrows, "but I could listen to you."
Sienna grinned broadly as they made their way down to his office.
She told him of her encounter with the Weasleys' fireworks, how she was doing in all of her classes, and what little she knew about Dumbledore's Army. "I think they kept me in the dark about it because I spend so much time with you. They thought I might tell you, or something."
"Would you have told me?"
"No in fact, I would have been glad to be part of it. You yourself said that you didn't want me to be an easy target for the Death Eaters."
Severus couldn't believe his ears. He cocked his head slightly and narrowed his eyes. "You mean you would have gone behind my back and not said a word?"
"Oh, come on, Severus. We NEED to learn to defend ourselves. Especially Harry. Look what he's already been through."
Severus started to brood. It must have shown on his face.
Sienna reached in her back pack and pulled out a bar of dark chocolate. She broke it in half and handed him some. "Here, it'll make you feel better."
Severus graciously took it and had a small bite. Silence followed for a few moments as they both consumed some of the delectably bittersweet bar.
"Why do you hate him so much?"
There was an even longer silence between chocolate bites as Severus weighed the pros and cons of telling Sienna about his relationship with Harry's father and the Marauders. Those particular stories he had left out of their Christmas conversations. Finally, Severus decided he could fill her in somewhat but leave out the gory details.
"His father was my arch enemy in school here. He and his mates were arrogant fools who found pleasure in torturing me just because I existed. From the moment I saw Potter, I felt like his father had come back to haunt me, they look so much alike. I had hoped he would turn out more like his mother, Lily, but he seems to be just as arrogant as James."
"Lily? Lily Evans was Harry's mother?"
"Yes," Severus was a bit surprised that she knew the name.
"You went to school with her."
"Yes, but how did you--"
"Remember after OWL's last year?"
"That's right." Severus was relieved. He thought Sienna could read his mind. "The wizard who tested you on Potions compared you with her. I remember now."
"You think Harry is arrogant?"
Severus became indignant. "Don't you?"
"No, not really." Sienna looked at Severus in a very curious fashion. "He looks a bit unsure of himself to me. Sometimes he tries to overcompensate for that insecurity. But he cares deeply for his friends, and I believe he would give his life to save them if they were ever in danger. Does that sound arrogant to you?"
Severus pushed the papers around on his desk. Of course he had seen Harry act heroically on several occasions. And the only time he had seen Harry try to hex someone he had been duly provoked. But he was a reckless rule breaker, just like James. If he wasn't careful he'd get himself killed, along with the people who loved him just like James!
"There's a side to him that you don't see," continued Sienna when Severus didn't reply to her question.
"What do you mean?" Severus was curious, but skeptical.
"Well, I don't know what happened during your Occlumency lesson last night, but he's felt really horrible ever since."
Severus became very alarmed. "What did he say?"
"Nothing. I was in the library looking for a book I needed for an essay in Transfiguration when I overheard him telling Ron and Hermione that you said he didn't need any more lessons."
"That's all?"
"He said you figured since he had the basics down he didn't need to come back. When Hermione pressed for more, he told her to drop it."
Severus was relieved. At least Potter wasn't talking. James would have had it all over the school, not caring about the consequences.
"How do you know he feels horrible?"
"I--" Sienna suddenly looked worried about something. "I can just tell. He feels guilty, distressed, disgusted... He hasn't been the same person. It's like his confidence is shaken. With Dumbledore gone and the D.A. discovered, I can understand why."
Severus became very quiet and thoughtful. Why had Sienna looked worried? There was something she wasn't telling him, but he didn't dare use Legilimency on her. That reminded him of what he wanted to ask her. "Sienna, " he began trepidatiously, "I'm not at liberty to tell you what happened during the Occlumency lesson, but Potter still needs help, and he won't be getting it from me. Do you think you could give him a few pointers? Professor Dumbledore said you were a natural."
"Oh, so that's why you haven't tried it on me since Christmas! He told you about my lesson."
"I wouldn't have tried anyway," Severus said with a touch of resentment in his voice.
"Did you use Legilimency on me before then?" Her eyes narrowed.
He felt the truth would be the best course of action. He had a feeling she would know if he was lying. "Yes, twice."
"But you didn't see anything, did you?"
"No." Severus met her gaze. He felt relieved to see that she seemed more curious than angry.
"I remember that same strange sensation, but because my mind was concentrating on the present moment, you couldn't pull anything up."
"Yes, you must clear your mind and concentrate on something in particular. You can actually communicate nonverbally with someone if you learn to bring up the memories that you want them to see."
"Fascinating. Perhaps we can try it sometime."
Severus sighed with relief. She didn't seem angry with him about that incident anymore, thank goodness. "Back to Potter. Do you think you can help him?"
"Me? I'm afraid he wouldn't listen to me."
"Why not?" Severus felt personally offended by that statement, as if Potter had insulted him instead of Sienna.
"I've overheard them talking about me. They all think I'm mental because I hang out with you so much. Hermione tries to defend me sometimes, but her pleas fall on deaf ears. I'm afraid your hatred for Harry is mutual."
Severus shook his head. "He's an arrogant fool, just like his father."
Sienna's face grew sad. "It's not healthy to hate like that. Holding grudges for so long... It's such a waste of energy. Can't you let it go?"
"Every time I try, he does something dreadful, like yesterday, to add fuel to the fire."
"What did he do that could possibly be that bad?"
"Never mind," Severus became irritated with himself for saying too much. "I think it's time you leave. We don't want Umbridge finding you down here."
*****
O.W.L. and N.E.W.T. testing weeks had finally arrived, so Severus' class load lightened a bit. Since Sienna was a sixth year, she still came to class, and although Severus told her she could forgo her lab assistant duties to study for finals, she still usually ended up hanging around and chatting with him for at least half an hour or so. And lately, she had even taken to studying in his office more often than McGonagall's.
Severus was not looking forward to summer break. Two months without Sienna would drag on like two years. But he knew deep down that it was just as well that they spend some time apart. He had grown way too attached to her and didn't need the distraction in the difficult times ahead. No one knew what was going to happen in the coming months. He might not live to see her graduate. Every time the Dark Mark burned and he was compelled to go to Voldemort's side, he knew he was taking a chance. But to not show up would mean almost certain death.
Then there was Sienna's vision. As mad as she had gotten at him for seeing it, he was glad he had. It gave him a ray of hope to hold on to. He saw himself happy and in love. He had felt love before, but the true happiness and contentment within the vision had so far eluded him in this life. Lily was right. He needed that vision of the future to get him though the present.
Severus was lying in bed reading himself to sleep on Wednesday night, the second week of O.W.L.s, when he heard a frantic pounding at the door. He bounded out of bed and threw on his bathrobe as he flicked his wand at the door. It swung open to reveal a tiny and very upset Professor Flitwick, similarly dressed.
"Umbridge is at it again!" he spewed angrily. "She and her cohorts from the Ministry tried to attack Hagrid!"
"Attack HAGRID?!" Severus became very alarmed. He had always gotten along with Hagrid. Hagrid was one of the kindest people he knew and one of the few friends he had made during his first year as a student here. He had learned more about magical creatures from hanging around with Hagrid than he had ever learned from the Care of Magical Creatures teacher. He remembered being quite pleased when Dumbledore announced that Hagrid would be taking over the position.
"Something about being reasonable and coming quietly."
"Where is he now?"
"Ran off, left the castle grounds. He could be anywhere by now. He put up a good fight, though, knocked several of 'em out cold."
Severus felt a bit of relief. At least they couldn't send him to Azkaban on some trumped up charge as they had done once before when the Chamber of Secrets had been opened. No doubt Hagrid would seek out Dumbledore. Severus made a mental note to send Dumbledore a message as soon as he could.
"But that's not the worst of it," continued Flitwick. "Come with me, quickly."
Severus put on his slippers and tied his bath robe more securely. They headed down the hall. He was really worried at this point. He wouldn't put anything past that Umbridge woman.
"When Minerva tried to stop them, all four of them sent stunners at her hit her right in the chest!"
"Where is she now?"
"Out here," Flitwick walked ahead toward the huge oak doors that led outside.
Severus followed Flitwick out and onto the grounds as several teachers gathered around the fallen Professor McGonagall. They all talked at once as they tried to describe to him what had happened. Umbridge and her cohorts, looking worse for wear, came marching up from Hagrid's cabin. She glanced at Professor McGonagall on the ground and a stiff simpering smile slithered across her face.
"Serves her right for meddling in official Ministry business. I may have to press charges... if she recovers."
The teachers were incensed. Professors Sprout and Flitwick yelled, "OUTRAGEOUS!" and "She should press charges against YOU!" But Severus remained silent. He knew arguing with her was pointless. The best course of action was to lay low and undermine her in secret, something he was good at. He had, after all, had years of practice.
Umbridge and the other officials marched back up to the castle with an air of triumph. Severus levitated Professor McGonagall up the lawn and into the castle. With navigational help from Sprout and Flitwick, the three of them maneuvered her up the stairs to the hospital wing.
Severus didn't get much sleep that night. He spent part of it brewing Madam Pomfrey a potion to give to Minerva, and the rest of the night pacing in the hospital ward while he waited for it to start working. When four a.m. arrived and she had shown no sign of improvement, he and Madam Pomfrey agreed that St. Mungo's would be the better place for her.
He sent word to St. Mungo's via his silver doe Patronus, knowing full well that Umbridge couldn't stop or censor that once he sent it on its mission. He then woke Professor Flitwick at five a.m. and they levitated her out of the castle and over to Hogsmeade Station where the St. Mungo's people met them. He and Flitwick looked down at the sleeping McGonagall. Flitwick patted her hand. "It'll be alright, Minerva."
Sienna had given Severus a couple of books to read about Hands on Healing, but he had had so much going on throughout the year, he hadn't gotten to read much. What he had managed to learn however, he attempted to put into practice as he gently placed his hand on her chest where the four stunners had hit her. He closed his eyes and imagined that spot back to good health. As he concentrated deeply, he felt a surge of energy flow from his hand to her chest, and then he gazed down at her. For just a moment, he thought he saw a faint smile flicker across Minerva's face, but she didn't open her eyes. He looked up at the three St. Mungo's emergency staff. "Take good care of her," Severus said in earnest. "We need her back as soon as she's able."
"She'll be fine, sir," replied the head attendant. "We'll have her back in no time."
In a flash they were gone. Severus and Flitwick walked slowly and with heavy hearts back down the path to the school.
"What a night, eh?" commented Flitwick.
Severus shook his head. "I'm afraid it's going to get worse before it gets better."
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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...