Mask of Stone
Chapter 14 of 31
ClayPotterSeverus decides to humiliate Sienna in class.
ReviewedDisclaimer: This story is based on the Harry Potter Book Series by the brilliant J. K. Rowling. It was written strictly for fun; no profit has been made in the writing or sharing of this story.
As always, I'd like to extend my deepest thanks to my two wonderful betas, JENGEORGE and NervousAboutAngels, for their diligent proofreading and suggestions. They really helped to improve my story.
Chapter 14
"When One Wears a Mask of Stone,
One Must Face the World Alone"
Severus was truly amazed by Sienna's performance in class with the wandless nonverbal spell. He had been holding his wand and she had almost overpowered him anyway. She had quite a mastery for one so young. He wondered if Dumbledore had been coaching her the previous year. Her power was truly impressive, so he would have to be careful about using her as a guinea pig in class. He didn't want Lord Voldemort to see how powerful she was through his memories. He would have to find other ways to humiliate her.
When Friday came, she handed in her paper with the others. He put hers on the top of the stack, and then pushed them all so that they slid violently against a neighboring file cabinet. A precariously perched ink well teetered unnoticed and fell onto the stack of papers, and its abundant contents poured and splashed all over Sienna's nice, neat essay. She stayed calm, assuming she could siphon off the excess ink, but to her dismay, it didn't budge.
"Oh, dear," Severus commented softly when he noticed her struggle. "It must be wand-proof ink. Sorry." His lip curled ever so slightly.
She glared at him.
"I'm afraid you'll have to re-do it. I'll give you until the end of the day tomorrow."
"But it took me three days to do the research for that essay!"
"Then you'll know just where to look for the information again, won't you?" Severus smirked. He had talked himself into enjoying this. He was convinced that this torture would help to see her out of the hands of the Dark Lord. "It's either that or a zero."
She snatched her essay from the pile and stormed back to her desk. Her brooding didn't last long, however. She put on her stony face during his lecture and stayed that way throughout the rest of the class. He watched her leave in silence. The taunts were amusing in a way, but he really missed her company much more than he thought he would, and his heart sank as she left with the other students.
The next day she handed in the essay again. He was surprised at how historically accurate it was, how in-depth. Most students wouldn't have managed it in a week's time, much less a day.
*****
As the weeks turned into months, Severus found new ways to torture Sienna. She seemed determined not to let it bother her on the outside, but she definitely had changed her approach to him. He began to be concerned that he still had no real memory of them having a heated argument to feed to the Dark Lord. He had to get her riled up... but how to do it? He decided to use her as a guinea pig in class again and really fight dirty. He would make an example of her. They were about to move on to wandless spells. He would have to be very careful. He knew she would be a natural in this category.
When the day arrived for him to introduce wandless spells, Severus smiled a simpering fake smile as the class settled in. "Wands away," he said with a smirk. When the class groaned collectively, he reassured them, "No, I've not been taking lessons from Umbridge. We will be moving on now to wandless spells. Miss Kaolin, if you will assist me." She made her way up to the front of the room, leaving her wand behind. "Today I will demonstrate the necessity of learning wandless spells, a skill many of you will no doubt never master. I just hope you don't run into any Death Eaters in a cold dark alley some night."
Several of the students looked obviously shaken. They all seemed grateful that Severus had chosen Sienna. She was the only one who showed no fear of him. But she eyed his every move and considered his every word with suspicion. She had learned her lesson well last time.
"As you will notice, I do have a wand. You can bet the Death Eaters never travel without one. I showed you at the beginning of the term how easy it is to disarm your opponent. But if you learn to concentrate efficiently, you may be able to buy yourself enough time to escape." He surveyed the class. They were actually hanging on his every word. It was an exhilarating feeling.
Suddenly, Severus pivoted around on his heel and pointed his wand at Sienna. He had used a nonverbal spell on her. It should have made her stiffen and fall over on the floor. But the split second before he had pointed his wand, just as he was turning, she tightened her fists and closed her eyes. The spell he cast bounced off of her and hit one of the other students in the first row. He stiffened in his seat and fell over on the floor in a fetal position. The class took a deep breath, looking first at Sienna, then at Severus, then back at Sienna, as if they were at a Muggle tennis match.
Severus was completely taken by surprise. How did she know what he was about to do? In an instant, Sienna extended her hand towards him, and with eyes that were hawk-like, threw a fiery red light at Severus. He was suddenly staggering backwards, and his wand was flying swiftly into her outstretched hand.
The class began to cheer and clap. Sienna was breathing hard, as if she had just run a race. Her eyes were ablaze with the pride of triumph.
Severus was furious.
While Sienna's classmates distracted her with their cheers, he shot a wandless stunner charm at her that was powerful enough to knock her into the wall, but not strong enough to knock her out. As she hit the wall, his wand flew back into his own hand. Then, with a flick and a spell he uttered under his breath, a body binding curse sent her to the ground, unable to move or speak. The class looked disappointed again, but Sienna wasn't finished. She was still conscious. The binding curse only held her for a moment because she had used the wandless nonverbal counter curse without moving. But instead of standing up and drawing attention to herself, she stayed still on the ground, barely moving her hand to summon her own wand from among the books on her desk.
"Petrificus Totalus!" she bellowed, with fire in her eyes, the instant her wand reached her hand. Severus was observing the class' reaction to their duel and had no idea that she had acquired her wand. He was feeling rather pleased with himself when the curse hit him. A look of outrage mixed with embarrassment crossed his face as he fell over onto the floor with a thud. His head was already throbbing. His blood was already boiling.
She flicked her wand towards him as she got up off the floor, bringing his wand effortlessly out of his hand and into hers. Then she walked up to him, staring unblinkingly through very narrow eyelids. Her look was of loathing. As angry as he was, he was relieved and grateful for her wrath. He finally had what he needed, a really bad memory to feed Lord Voldemort.
Sienna poked her wand into the side of his upturned shoulder. "I think you can see from our little demonstration how important wandless spells are, and how handy they can be in a pinch."
She gazed out over the students. They were all on their feet with their mouths open, looking almost as stunned as Severus. "I hope you also figured out that you should never take anything or anyone," she glanced down at Severus, "for granted." She walked over to his desk and laid his wand down. Then she walked calmly back to her desk and collected her books. The class watched in silent amazement as she casually strolled out of the room, releasing Severus from the binding spell with a nonverbal counter-curse just before she disappeared out the door.
Severus jumped to his feet. He was red with rage as he made his way to his desk and picked up his wand. He slowly tried to gather his self-control, then continued his teaching as though nothing out of the ordinary had happened. He assigned them all an essay due the very next day, knowing full well Sienna probably wouldn't talk to anyone to get the assignment.
At the beginning of the next class, however, he was annoyed to see her turn in her assignment anyway. He assumed one of the other Gryffindors must have told her. As the students were all packing up to leave, he called Sienna to his desk.
"I'm sure you can understand why I cannot allow you to turn my classroom into a stage for your personal performances," he said coldly, but with plenty of volume. She visibly stiffened, steeling herself for what must be coming. The rest of the class slowed their packing. They were obviously eavesdropping, and Severus wanted them all to hear. "I think a month's worth of detention, every Thursday evening after dinner should do it."
"And what shall you have me do?"
"You can sort potion ingredients for Professor Slughorn; go back to your old job. I'm sure he will find any number of fascinating tasks for you." Inside, Severus' stomach was turning somersaults at the thought of Sienna spending so much quality time with Slughorn. On the outside, he feigned indifference.
Instead of seething, she painted a very faint smile on her face. "Professor Slughorn. How charming." She raised an eyebrow. "If I play my cards right, I may even get a party invitation."
Severus' insides were tied in knots. He knew how she really felt about Slughorn's parties. Was this show for the class' benefit? With very mixed emotions, he watched her turn and walk back to her desk, gather her books and leave.
The next day Severus handed back the graded homework assignments. Sienna's had a "T" for "Troll" at the top. She had never received anything lower than an "E" for "Exceeds Expectations" from any teacher at Hogwarts. Severus knew that this paper was no different. He just wanted to make her mad.
"A 'T'?!!" Sienna was obviously outraged. "With all due respect, Professor, I don't believe this paper deserves a T."
"Very well, then, I'll be glad to change it to a zero," he calmly responded.
She scowled, but remained silent. He could almost see steam shooting from her ears, but she didn't say another word to him for the rest of class or for the rest of the term, for that matter. Severus figured that no matter what the outcome of the war, he had lost her as a friend or anything else forever. But he took great comfort in knowing that she would be alive and well by the end of the war, which was more than he could say for himself. Yet his heart still sank at the end of every class, as she avoided his gaze and left in silence.
*****
The night of Slughorn's Christmas party crept up on Severus. And although he would rather get one of his molars drilled, it was unavoidable. He wondered if Sienna would be there. She had been invited to every party, but so far had managed to come up with a legitimate excuse to avoid each one. Lucky girl... Sure enough, tonight was no different. Severus searched the crowd but came up empty-handed. So he painted a faint smile on his face, which he had a difficult time maintaining, and tried to relax and enjoy himself. When Slughorn dragged him into a conversation with Potter about Potter's brilliance in the Potions classroom, Severus immediately became suspicious. But he could prove nothing, and with so many more important things to think about, he soon put it out of his mind.
Then Draco was caught lurking around and was presented to Slughorn like a trophy by Filch. Severus was mortified. What if Draco had been expelled? There were so many things that could go wrong. And his own life was hanging in the balance. As he escorted Draco down the hall to an empty classroom for a private conversation, his anger and anxiety grew. He interrogated the boy, but still got nothing out of him of any value. Draco was afraid Severus might try to steal his glory. He was determined to somehow kill Dumbledore himself.
After Draco stormed out of the room, Severus took a moment to compose himself. He would be expected back at the party, the last place in the world he wanted to be.
As he stepped back into Slughorn's smoky, noisy office he surveyed the scene. Potter was significantly absent. For just a brief moment he feared that he and Draco might have been followed. But he put the possibility out of his mind and pushed his way back into the room. He reached down to one of the wandering trays and retrieved a glass of mead. He drained the glass to calm his nerves and took another, but the memory of Sienna and the cognac incident from last year crossed his mind, so he nursed the second one more slowly.
"Ah! Good to see you back and enjoying yourself, Professor Snape!" bellowed Slughorn gleefully. "I was hoping to see Miss Kaolin here tonight, but she said she was working on a special project for Dumbledore which had to be finished before break, and she couldn't afford to take the time. Shame, shame."
"Yes," agreed Severus sincerely. He had hoped to see her tonight and at least try to smooth things over a bit. He had missed her more than he had imagined he would. Her silence, both in class and after, was deafening, but he knew it was ultimately for the best... At least that was what he kept telling himself.
"I must tell you, no matter what task I give her, no matter how nasty, she actually seems to enjoy it! I know you requested that I try to make her life miserable in detention, but I'm beginning to think that it's not possible. She is always so cheerful. I can't imagine how she could have ended up in detention in the first place."
"She deserved it, believe me," Severus replied simply. He wasn't about to elaborate.
"Wasn't she your assistant the past couple of years?"
"Yes."
"I've been trying to talk her into being my assistant..."
Severus' stomach lurched.
"...but she keeps making excuses. Do you think you could put in a good word for me?"
"I'm afraid I am not in her good graces at the moment, so there's not much I can do to help you." Thank goodness, thought Severus. Her comments in class about Slughorn and his parties were just to get under his skin.
"I must say, her potions are also brilliant. I didn't mention her when we were talking with Harry earlier, because I knew she had been your assistant, so I assumed you had given her pointers and shared some of your many secrets."
"She has plenty of her own," Severus admitted. "She actually taught me a few things."
"Really!" exclaimed Slughorn enthusiastically. "Then I'll watch her more closely from now on. And if I can't talk her into becoming my assistant, please feel free to give her detention with me anytime."
"I'll keep you in mind." Severus faked a smile. Inside, his heart was aching.
****
Just before Christmas break, Severus received a note from Dumbledore. He had been making the Headmaster the potion that was keeping him up and running all term, but Severus could see little signs that the dark curse from the ring was taking its toll within him. Dumbledore rarely made it to meals, usually because he was ailing, but sometimes, when he felt like his old self, he would leave to run mysterious errands, keeping Severus in the dark in regard to his goals or destinations.
Severus made his way to Dumbledore's office, sure that the conversation would be about Draco and his feeble attempt earlier in the year at assassination via the necklace. Sure enough, they spoke of the technical side of security and how to be sure no one else would get hurt as a result of Draco's task. Unfortunately, Severus still had not been able to get any more details out of Draco about what he was working on or even where he was working on it. Draco was still convinced that Severus wanted to hog all the glory.
When Severus assumed that the meeting was winding down, Dumbledore surprised him and continued in a different direction.
"Sienna told me about your little duel in front of the class and her detention sentence as a result."
"Really," Severus was curious, "What was her version?"
"She told me you were a sore loser."
Severus chuckled. "How would you have handled it, sir?"
Dumbledore hesitated a moment. "Well, I'm not trying to get her to hate me, so my approach would have been quite different."
"You know why I must treat her this way." Severus wasn't sure he even wanted to talk about it. He was too depressed as it was.
"You know, Severus, after all that you have put her through, she still loves you."
"That's her problem," Severus said, trying to sound indifferent. "I only hope it does not become her misfortune."
"I wouldn't worry too much if I were you, Severus," chuckled Dumbledore. "I believe our girl can take quite good care of herself. Did you know that she spends even more time in deep meditation now than last year?"
Severus raised his eyebrows. He still wasn't ready to believe in all of the eastern philosophy, but he had to admit that she could focus her mind better than anyone he had ever met. Her performance in their little duel gave him new respect for her and her beliefs.
"She has come to the conclusion that your actions, at least on the surface, are totally illogical, and since she knows you to be a very logical man, you must have a good reason for treating her this way."
Severus just shook his head.
"You know, at some point you may need to explain everything to her."
"That would only put her in more danger."
"Oh, I think that if she knew what your goal was, she would be happy to play along."
"You know why I don't think that would be a good idea. At the end of this year, I will be out of her life forever."
"I wouldn't be so sure about that. She seems determined to make her vision come true."
Dumbledore smiled at Severus. His eyes were twinkling. Severus felt sure Dumbledore was picturing the two of them together, a scene he had refused himself the joy of imagining. His heart began to ache.
"I wish I could be as sure of the future as she is."
****
Christmas break was soon upon them. Sienna went home to her mother for the holidays. There was nothing but a package of socks at the foot of Severus' bed Christmas morning. He went down to breakfast and sat at the table with Dumbledore, McGonagall, Flitwick, Hagrid, and a handful of students. This was one of the smallest groups he had ever seen for Christmas break. After the necklace incident, Severus was surprised that there were any students left at Hogwarts at all.
Suddenly, a Barn Owl came through an upper window. It swooped down and, surprisingly, landed in front of Severus! He untied the package, and after a few mouthfuls of food from his plate, the owl flew off. Severus looked around curiously at the other teachers who all looked back at him with eager faces. He had never received a package by owl on Christmas morning. Severus tore into it. He found a pound of his all-time favorite dark chocolate truffles with liquid cognac centers from Honeydukes. There was no note, but the only person he had ever told about this particular weakness was Sienna.
"What do you have there, Severus?"
He had a feeling that Dumbledore already knew the answer, as well as who sent it. "Oh, just some chocolate from Honeydukes."
"One can never have too much chocolate."
"Just as one can never have too many socks." They nodded at each other in agreement. For the first time since last spring, Severus actually felt happy. He didn't offer any of his fellow teachers a piece of his prize, however. He hoarded it and rationed it to himself. He wanted to make it last as long as possible.
*****
When January arrived along with the students, Severus eased up on Sienna. He felt like the chocolate was an effective peace offering. He also contemplated the idea that Dumbledore had suggested: to confide his situation and let her help him stage arguments. But he ultimately decided against it.
One day, after the rest of the class had left, Sienna lingered behind. She didn't approach his desk. Instead, she spoke from her desk as she continued to pack.
"You haven't used me for target practice lately," she began gingerly. "Do you think I can handle myself against the Dark Lord?"
Severus looked up, a bit surprised by her question. "I think you stand a better chance than anyone else in the class," he admitted. "But, that's not saying much."
There was a long silence as she finished packing. Those had been the first words she had spoken to him since last November.
"Let us hope we never have to find out," he added, with a feeling of relief that he had enough negative experiences to draw from to accomplish that goal.
A strange look dawned across Sienna's face with his statement. First curiosity, then recognition, then finally something that resembled anger or irritation. "So that's what all of this has been about! You've been treating me like this for my own protection!"
"I don't know what you're talking about!" Severus lied. But the alarm in his voice was real. How could she have found out? Dumbledore would not have gone behind his back and told her... No, he knew better.
"Now I understand... Now it all makes sense. But...I still don't know..." she looked into his eyes. Even from across the room he could feel the deep penetration of her stare. "And now, it upsets you that I know the truth."
Severus was almost in a panic. She shouldn't know. They should NOT be having this conversation. Another memory he would have to bury. How could she tell what he was feeling? He thought his poker face was flawless.
"But since the last thing I want to do is upset you..." she dropped her gaze from his worried eyes, "I'll just leave." And she turned in silence, leaving him staring after her, speechless.
How could she know?
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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...