When All Alone to Meditate
Chapter 5 of 31
ClayPotterSienna begs Severus for private lessons in Defense Against the Dark Arts.
ReviewedDisclaimer: All characters and dialogue you recognize are from the brilliant Harry Potter book series by J. K. Rowling. I have written this as a parallel to the last four installments of the series. 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 5
"When All Alone to Meditate,
Professor Snape Will Have to Wait"
The summer flew by for Severus as he walked a tightrope between completing requests for Dumbledore and the Order of the Phoenix and doing Lord Voldemort's bidding. At one point in late July he got an owl from Sienna, and although he didn't bother to write back, he was pleased to hear that she had received an Outstanding in every one of her OWLS. When they crossed paths on Order business, Professor McGonagall informed Severus that Sienna's chosen career goal was to become a healer. After all she had done for him, it came as no surprise to Severus.
The school year was upon him before he knew it, and much to his horror, the Ministry of Magic had appointed a new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Dolores Umbridge. Her voice sounded like fingernails on a chalkboard to Severus. She behaved shamefully at the start-of-term feast, interrupting Dumbledore's opening speech. Severus was so obsessed with removing this new thorn in his side that he barely noticed Sienna as she tried to draw his attention from the Gryffindor table. He glanced at her with tired eyes. What a dreadful way to start the year. It was not at all what he had hoped it would be. The look she gave him was one of sympathy. Did he look as tired as he felt?
He didn't see her again until Gryffindor had Double Potions with the sixth year Slytherins on Tuesday morning. She hung back, taking her time packing her books and scales. When the room had cleared, she walked up to his desk.
"You look like a man who could use an assistant." Her eyes sparkled at him. He noticed that they looked grey today.
"Oh, I could use one, certainly. But Umbridge will probably have to approve it," Severus said with as much resentment as his voice could muster. "So I'm not sure if you'll be allowed to do it this year."
"Why does she even need to know?"
"She made it very clear at the staff meeting that her nose will be in everyone's business." Severus screwed up his face as if he had just eaten a lemon as Sienna moved towards him. "And there will be no outward displays of affection!" He had thought long and hard about their relationship over the summer. He couldn't let himself get distracted by her. He found it difficult to push his memories of her to the back of his mind. If Voldemort found out he felt even the tiniest... He cleared his mind of the mere thought of what could happen.
"Why not?" she insisted as she took another menacing step in his direction.
"If someone sees us, you could get kicked out of school and I could lose my job!"
"It's just an innocent HUG," she scowled. "Stupid rule," she muttered under her breath, as she acquiesced to his new insistence in physical distance between them. Sienna was obviously upset. Severus got the feeling that she had been waiting all summer for another hug. If he could be truthful with himself, so had he. But he pushed the temptation out of his mind, and the room remained uncomfortably silent for a few moments.
"So what do we do?" she asked as she seemed to recover her usual calm.
"I guess we can act as if we don't know any better." Severus' expression became mischievous.
A smile began to spread across Sienna's face as they decided between both of their schedules that Tuesday and Thursday afternoons would be best.
Sienna was beaming at him now. "Did Professor McGonagall tell you what I'm majoring in?"
"Muggle Studies," he lied.
Sienna curled her lip. "I want to be a healer. And she DID tell you." She glared at him in mock irritation as he leaned back in his chair, feeling content. He realized that he hadn't felt this good since last spring, just before the final task of the Triwizard Tournament, and that he had been with her at the time. She always seemed to know just how to pull him up out of a sour mood. She would really have her work cut out for her this year though, with Umbridge around.
*****
As the weeks progressed it became more apparent that Umbridge was the ultimate control freak. She banned clubs of any kind, even gatherings of more than three people. Severus was a bit tickled by her harassment of Harry Potter, but thought it sad at the same time that the Ministry of Magic was so blind to the dangers that were growing even stronger in the form of Lord Voldemort and his followers. And it was happening right under their noses.
He noticed a scar on Potter's right hand as it became clearer and clearer with each passing day. When he finally realized that it said, "I shall not tell lies," he knew Umbridge must be behind it, and he was appalled. He's not lying this time, you puffy haired toad! Severus thought to himself. But he wanted to keep a low profile for obvious reasons, so he stayed out of it. If she bothered Potter enough, there was always Dumbledore for him to cry to.
*****
One day, just to hear her reaction, Severus asked Sienna her opinion of Umbridge's Defense Against the Dark Arts class.
"What a total waste of time!" Sienna began to rant. "She starts every class with 'Wands away' in that sugary sweet voice of hers," she said as she waved her hands in the air. Severus had never seen her angry before. He sat back in his chair and folded his arms. This was going to be amusing. "Then she makes us read and take notes. If that's what the whole year is going to be like, all the students will be sitting ducks if any Death Eaters ever manage to break in here."
"That good, eh?" Severus smirked.
Sienna shook her head, then a serious look crossed her face, and she lowered her voice to a whisper as she approached Severus' desk. "Do you think Harry Potter is telling the truth? About Lord Voldemort, I mean?" Severus winced at the name. "I still have my weekly meetings with Professor Dumbledore, when he's here anyway. He sure does put a lot of faith in Harry's story."
"I normally don't believe a word Potter says, he has lied to me so many times. But in this instance, I'm sure he is telling the truth." Severus looked deep into Sienna's eyes for signs of fear. She seemed more curious than worried.
"How can you be so sure?" she asked.
"Let's just say... I have my sources." His tone told her that to ask more would be a waste of time.
Her eyes narrowed. "Well, if Voldemort's really back, we will all need to learn some defensive spells. And not just what they are, but how to use them, and we'll need to practice!"
"Could you please refrain from using the Dark Lord's name in my presence?" Severus asked, with a touch of irritation in his voice.
"Why? Professor Dumbledore says we shouldn't be afraid to say his name. The fear we associate with him gives him more power over us."
Severus sighed. "The Headmaster is the most powerful wizard of our time. He can afford to take chances. The rest of us must show more caution." He felt as if he were speaking to a child for some reason. She seemed so incredibly naive. It must have been her sequestered upbringing.
"Oh, all right."
"And as for practicing defensive spells, that would be all well and good," Severus reminded her, "but our dear Professor Umbridge has banned groups or clubs that don't meet her approval first."
Sienna's lips pursed. She appeared to be in deep thought. "Could you teach me, Professor? If you show me a few moves, I could--"
"I don't think so, Miss Kaolin," Severus scoffed at her idea.
"But you don't want me to be an easy target for the Death Eaters, do you?"
"Of course not, but..."
"And I promise I won't tell anyone where I learned it from." She was almost on bended knee. Concern permeated her voice. She reached for his shoulder and touched it gently. "Please?"
Teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts, right under Umbridge's nose... It was an appealing thought, but... Just don't hug me if I say yes, thought Severus to himself... "On one condition."
"Anything."
"You should never say 'anything' to a man like that. It could get you into trouble." The words had snuck out. Severus surprised himself. Was he that concerned about her? Sienna blushed.
"The condition?"
Severus snapped back to reality. "Yes, that you don't tell anyone what we are doing, and you don't try to teach it to anyone else."
"Why not?" She crossed her arms defiantly.
"Because I don't want to lose my job," he retorted as his lips stiffened. "And I would hate for you to be expelled because of me," he added under his breath.
"But you'll teach me?"
"If you promise not to--"
"Yes, yes, I promise." She had stopped whispering, and was now quivering with excitement. "When do we start?"
"How does Saturday morning sound?"
Sienna nodded.
"Here in my office? Nine o'clock too early?"
"No, not at all. I'm usually up at 5:00 a.m., even on weekends."
"Indeed!" exclaimed Severus, a bit impressed by her statement. "What on earth for?"
"I go down to the Common room to do my yoga routine while everyone is still asleep."
"Yoga?" Severus lifted one eyebrow. He didn't think much of Muggle practices.
"Yes, it's a great way to stay fit, as well as clear the mind for meditation," she explained.
"Oh, you can't be serious meditation?" He looked at her in disbelief, a touch of disgust in his voice. Sienna didn't seem phased by his reaction. Perhaps she had heard it all before.
"It's an ancient spiritual practice, very beneficial on so many levels. It helps to bring peace of mind, gives one patience, and builds the ability to concentrate."
Severus' look softened, but he still inwardly scoffed at the idea.
"I don't expect you to understand. People from the West usually have their minds closed to anything out of the ordinary. I would have thought wizards would be different, but since it's a Muggle practice..." Her voice trailed off and she shrugged.
Severus felt a twinge of guilt. She was right, of course. His mind had been closed to the mere idea of yoga or meditation. But the idea of peace of mind sounded inviting. He made a mental note to look in the library for any books on the subject.
*****
Saturday morning at breakfast, Severus didn't see Sienna at the Gryffindor table. He went back to his office and busied himself wading through what seemed like miles of parchment as he awaited Sienna's nine a.m. arrival. But the clock ticked past nine and she didn't show. A fine way to show her gratitude, thought Severus. She had acted so anxious two days ago. He decided that he would leave at 9:15 if she didn't show up. He had rearranged his whole morning... Severus was fuming now, and as soon as the clock showed 9:15, he bolted out the door in a huff.
Later at lunch his anger turned to concern when once again, Sienna didn't appear at the Gryffindor table. Where in the world is she? He looked up at the ceiling as it reflected a thunder storm raging outside.
When Dumbledore stood up to leave, Severus jumped up to join him and they headed out the door together. "Headmaster," Severus nodded his head.
"Severus, is something troubling you?" Was it that obvious?
"Have you seen Miss Kaolin today, sir?"
"Now that you mention it, no, I haven't. Was she at breakfast?"
"Not that I saw. And," Severus glanced over his shoulder to make sure Umbridge was nowhere around, "she missed an appointment we had for this morning... Something I know she very anxiously wanted to do."
"I see," said Dumbledore thoughtfully. He raised his eyebrows. Silence followed as they walked slowly down the hall towards Dumbledore's office. "Why don't you ask one of the Gryffindor students to check in her dormitory to see if she's taken ill. She may be in bed or had to go up to the Hospital Wing. With this dreadful weather, it's a wonder half the school isn't up there."
"Very well, sir. Thank you." Severus turned back towards the Great Hall in search of a lingering female Gryffindor student. He found Hermione Granger sitting alone, her nose buried in a book. She was the only one left at the table. Oh great, thought Severus. Did he really need to know the whereabouts of Miss Kaolin this badly? He reluctantly approached her and stood by her side, waiting to be noticed. She was so into her book that she didn't look up.
"Where are your partners in crime today, Miss Granger?"
Hermione jumped and almost fell off the bench. "Oh! You startled me, Professor." She commented as she struggled to regain her composure. Severus stifled a chuckle. "If you're referring to Ron and Harry, they are at Quiddich practice."
"I see," Severus hesitated. He didn't like the idea of owing anyone a favor, especially a student, but he forged ahead with his question. "Would you have a few minutes to help me with something, then?"
Hermione's face seemed to flip back and forth between fear and suspicion. She acted as if she was about to object, to offer some excuse that she was too busy. Finally she spoke. "What do you need, sir?"
"Do you know Miss Kaolin?"
"Yes, sir, a sixth year. She was your assistant last year, if I'm not mistaken."
"I don't need a lecture on her history," Severus said with a touch of irritation. "Have you seen her today?" His eyebrows knitted themselves together. His black eyes became hawk-like. He searched her face for evidence of deception. Then he reminded himself that she was not as big a liar as Potter. She usually tried to steer Potter away from trouble. Yes, he could trust her to tell the truth at least, although, after the way he had treated her for the last four years, he couldn't blame her if she wasn't keen on the idea of helping him.
"I saw her first thing this morning. She was in the Gryffindor common room doing her exercises. Why?"
Severus was relieved that Sienna had at least been spotted earlier in the day. But could he trust Granger with more information? "She was supposed to help me with something this morning, and she didn't show up. I thought perhaps she had taken ill. You haven't seen her since then?"
"No..." Hermione was searching her memories. "But I think I might know where to find her. Come on." She jumped up, grabbed her book on Ancient Runes and headed out the door. Severus walked beside her in silence as they made their way up the stairs to the Fat Lady.
"Password?"
"Mimbulus mimbletonia." The portrait swung open, and Hermione started to climb through the hole. She looked over her shoulder and called out, "Well, come on, Professor."
Severus felt uncomfortable at the thought of going into the Gryffindor Common Room, but he approached the hole. Apparently, the Fat Lady didn't like the idea either, because she slammed shut suddenly, right in his face. He became enraged. "What is the meaning of this? OPEN UP!" She didn't budge. "MIMBULUS MIMBELTONIA!"
"Nope," said the fat lady defiantly, "You're a Slytherin. The password has changed."
"I'm a TEACHER!" Severus stifled the desire to use Sectumsempra on her.
Hermione's muffled voice came floating out from behind the portrait. "Open up. He is a TEACHER, and he is with ME. This is an EMERGENCY!"
"Oh, all right." The Fat Lady begrudgingly swung open. "But I'm changing the password as soon as you leave!"
"Sorry, Professor Snape. Since the Sirius Black incident two years ago, she's been overprotective."
They emerged in the Gryffindor Common Room. Several students gasped when they saw Severus. He could hear them whispering about him. He was sure that what they were saying was not complementary, and that once he was gone, Granger would have a lot of explaining to do.
"I'll check quickly in her dorm room to be sure she's not napping." A few moments later Hermione returned shaking her head. "Nope," she mused. "That leaves one other possibility."
"And that would be?" Severus raised his eyebrows and waited impatiently for an answer.
"The roof, of course!"
"The roof?!"
"She usually meditates up there after she does her yoga exercises," Hermione said softly so the other people in the room couldn't hear.
"You know about that?" Severus was surprised that Hermione knew so much about Sienna. After all, he thought they were close, and he had only just found out about her meditation practice a couple of days before.
"I'm usually up early, too. I like to read down here when it's quiet. Sometimes she's finishing up her exercises. Sometimes she's coming back from her meditation. So I've known for a long time. But you're right; she doesn't usually tell people about it."
"Why is that, do you suppose?" He was following Hermione up a tight spiral staircase that led to the top of Gryffindor Tower. In all his years at Hogwarts, he had only been in the Gryffindor Common room once, and he had never been to the roof.
"She says most people think it's 'nambie pambie Muggle mumbo jumbo.'" Hermione's head bobbed up and down with each word. She and Severus both chuckled. Was he actually enjoying Granger's company? He decided not to let her get too comfortable.
"This had better not be a wild goose chase you're taking me on. I've got ten thousand things I need to be doing," he growled.
"You asked me to help you," she reminded him, exasperated and a bit hurt.
They had reached the top of the stairs and were standing in front of the door that led to the rooftop of the tower. They could hear the wind-driven rain beating against the door in torrents.
"You don't think she's really out there, do you?" Severus scowled first at Hermione, then at the door in disbelief.
Hermione shrugged. "There's only one way to find out."
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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...