The Centaur's Shrine

Chapter 7 - Helen

Grimauld Place,

"Hermione, can you help me please?"

Hermione looked up from her reading of the Daily Prophet which had just been delivered, along with several letters and other magazines. Silena was standing before her, a piece of paper in her hand. The others were in the living room, laughing together in their quest for the perfect decoration.

"Yes. What is it?"

"I'd like to call my friends. You remember that you said we could invite each other?" She showed the slip Richard had given her on the train. "They told me that this is for the fone, and that you'd know how to use it."

Hermione looked at it and smiled.

"It's a telephone number. It's used to communicate among Muggle."

"How does it work?"

"We need to find a telephone, that's a small machine with numbered buttons on it. They have one in their home. We'll type the numbers on the paper and their phone will ring and then we can talk."

Silena accepted this. To her it was just Muggle magic.

"Where do we find a telefone?"

"Hum, I've got a mobile one, but it doesn't work here. We'll just have to go outside the house."

"Is it like the wards where you can't Apparate?"

"Yes kind of." Hermione didn't try to explain how magic interfered with electrical phenomena. She didn't really understand it either.

At number 7, Grimauld Place, there was a small coffee shop. It was never very crowded, and they could usually count on finding a free table in the back. Not the best place to make a phone call, but it was workable.

"Hello?"

"Good morning. Am I at Alicia and Richard Parker's home?" asked Hermione. Silena watched her speaking in the little box.

"Yes, this is her mother speaking." The voice sounded young and cheerful.

"Hello Mrs. Parker. My name is Hermione Granger, we've meet the other day at the train station. I'm calling on behalf of Silena. She's a friend of Alicia and Richard."

"Oh yes. They've been at me since the start of the vacation. I've heard a lot about you, Miss Granger. Please call me Helen. The children would be delighted to have Silena come with us for a few days, and so would I."

"That's very nice of you. We'd like to return the favor as well, maybe after Christmas. How do you suggest we proceed?"

"Why don't I come over this afternoon and pick her up? You're in London I believe."

"Er, yes. At 12, Grimauld Place, but, ah, the house is not very easy to find. Perhaps the best meeting place is a small bar at number 7. We'll wait for you there." Hermione didn't want to go into the explanations of the Fidelus spell. "Shall we say after lunch, at around two o'clock?"

"That's fine for us. See you later then."

Silena was jumping with excitement. Hermione calmed her down and tried to think on how she would solve the Secret Keeper protection. There was no choice. She would have to ask professor Dumbledore for some assistance. They went back inside the house and she flooed his office.

"Yes? Good morning my dear." The kindly features of the Headmaster appeared in the flames.

"Good morning, Professor Dumbledore. I hope I'm not disturbing anything?"

"Not at all. It is always a pleasure to talk with you, Hermione. How can I be of service?"

She explained her problem.

"Ah yes. I understand. We should really transfer the Secret Keeping to one of you. However that will take a little time. For now, I will just write you another note."

"Thank you very much sir."

"You are quite welcome, please hold on a minute." His face disappeared and when it came back, part of his arm extended from the flames as well, holding a folded slip of paper. "Since I have you at hand, I wonder if I could bother you with a small request of my own?"

"Of course, sir."

"We will not need to use your house for the Order's meetings anymore, but there are a number of things which we stored over there, and that I would like to recover. Could someone come and get it today?"

"Yes, sir. No problem at all. Don't you want us to bring it to you? It would be no trouble."

"Your offer is very generous, but you might have some difficulties with the more, ah, exotic items." He smiled. "It should not take long. Oh, and before I forget, we should also discuss Silena's schooling."

"Yes."

"Although she is still a little young, I think it would be best if she entered the school with the other first years. The Sorting Hat places her in Slytherin of course, but she did miss the whole of the first term."

"Would you like me to organize some tutoring for her?"

The old wizard's face broke into a grateful smile.

"If you could do that it would be a fine thing indeed. She already knows some magic. With a little help, it should be possible for her to follow classes normally."

"I'll see to that with Draco, sir."

"Splendid. Well, let me wish you a very good day then. Thank you very much, my dear."

"You're very welcome. Good day, sir."

Okay. I didn't have anything planned today, but I guess this just took care of that. A least I've got the time to read the papers.

She returned to browsing the Prophet again. Most of it was rubbish these days. A lot of pompous announcements by the Ministry of Magic and other officials. One dispatch did catch her eye. Frowning, she went back to the pile of mail. She had not paid any attention to the elaborate shield and sword seal on one letter, but putting two and two together, she quickly opened the thick parchment envelop, and took a look at the content.

Holy ghost!

"Harry! Ron!" she yelled, storming out of the room.

- - -

Hogwarts,

Dumbledore stood up from the fireplace and chuckled pleasantly to himself. He went to his desk and took the folded letter on it. While he read it once more, he selected a long white candy from a bowl and started to chew it. Fawkes screeched from his perch. He looked up, to see the bird opening a large hungry beak. Smiling, he took another candy and threw it to the Phoenix, who caught it deftly.

"Albus, you are incorrigible," said the picture of Phineas Nigellus.

"And what do you mean by that, sir?" said the Headmaster, affecting an innocent expression. "Fawkes likes sweets as much as I."

"You know what I mean. I've watched over you for more than fifty years, so don't try to pretend with me."

"Oh, I wouldn't dream of it, old friend, and since you know me so well, there is nothing I can add." He chuckled again and turned toward the exit, the letter still in his hand. "But if you will excuse me, I have an appointment at this moment."

"Give my regards to professor Snape," murmured Phineas. Dumbledore waived casually and left the office.

- - -

A double knock made Severus look up from the mixture he was brewing.

"Come in."

The door opened, and Dumbledore's head appeared.

"Good morning, Severus. I wonder if you could spare me a moment?" he asked softly.

"Of course, Albus. Please make yourself at ease."

He quickly cast a holding spell on the bubbling potion and gestured to a pair of seats next to the fireplace. Dumbledore considered him, noting the apparent serenity in his attitude. He wondered how deep the layer of calm was, and what was underneath.

"I find you in very good shape my friend," he said. "A few days of rest have truly done wonders."

Severus nodded. He did feel better. The menace which had hung over them all, and over him in particular, was no more. He could start living once again.

Not even once again. I've never really lived as a free man.

He was as content as he could ever remember being. Which is to say that he was not furious, or in mortal danger, or lost in pain and despair. Happiness was a very relative thing for Severus Snape.

"I am fine," he said simply.

Dumbledore nodded and glanced at the cauldron. With the holding spell active, the smoke and the flames were frozen in place. He identified some of the ingredients, and a look of interest came over his face.

"I do not believe I am familiar with that particular recipe. Is it something new?"

"An old project I've restarted."

Severus' eyes brightened as he explained it to the Headmaster. A few weeks ago he had decided to catch up on his correspondence with other Potion Masters. A former student had asked his opinion on an original use of powdered dragon bones, something on which he had been working, a few years back. Their discussion was turning into a full scale research project, and he was even considering doing part of it as his NEWT classes.

"It is good to see you with such enthusiasm, Severus," said Dumbledore after listening to him. The other man started to grimace, but for once the Headmaster raised his hand and didn't pretend to ignore it.

"I am quite serious. You have shouldered a very heavy burden these past years, and you have turned out very well indeed. As godfather, professor ... and friend."

"I did my duty," muttered the other man stiffly.

"Much more than that, Severus. A great deal of the credit of what happened belongs to you, and so for once I will approve Fudge's decision." With a flourish, he produced the letter he had been carrying. Severus raised an interrogative eyebrow and took it.

By decision of the Minister of Magic, and with the approval of the Wizengamot, for heroic services rendered above and beyond the call of duty, the following wizards and witches are to be awarded:

Harry Potter : Order of Merlin first class

Severus Snape : Order of Merlin first class

Ronald Weasley : Order of Merlin second class

Hermione Granger : Order of Merlin second class

Luna Lovegood : Order of Merlin second class

Ginevra Weasley : Order of Merlin second class

Draco Malfoy : Order of Merlin second class

The ceremony will take place on January the 19^th, in the hall of honor of the Auror Academy.

He was astonished, and torn between embarrassment and pride. The Order of Merlin was the greatest decoration in the wizard world. Every wizard with the least amount of ambition, and that meant any Slytherin, dreamed of having it.

"I hope you are not thinking of refusing," said Dumbledore softly.

Severus jerked up. Then he remembered that the old man could read him like an open book. Of course he would accept the medal. That wasn't the question he was asking.

"I know what your problem is, Severus," continued the old wizard, ignoring the other wizard's frown. "Your role in life was clear up to now. You were a soldier and an instructor during a deadly war, and you performed brilliantly. Now that peace has come, you wonder if you will be as good."

Severus gave him a cold stare.

"You think that you know me that well?"

"Yes."

He was startled. The Headmaster was never so forthright. He tried to shrug it off.

"Life goes on. I do not expect any difficulties in-"

"You should," interrupted Dumbledore, again something he very rarely did. He fixed him with piercing eyes. "Do you realize what you have lost?"

Severus was becoming annoyed, but the man's words also had a very disturbing effect on him.

What is he doing?

"I do not understand."

Dumbledore's face was quite serious. There was nothing aggressive in his manner but he evidently considered this conversation to be something important.

"You have lost the foundation upon which your life stood. You have lost the targets for your anger. Surely you are aware of how significant they were?"

Severus and Albus were skilled in Legimency, and they had known each other through many years and crisis. They could hide some things, but they could not lie to each other, and when one spoke the truth, the other knew it. The reality behind these words made Severus reel in confusion.

"Sealing your peace with Harry took away the first target, defeating Voldemort removed the other."

He's right. The force driving me was the rage against those who had ruined my life. They are no more.

"I ..." He was confused.

"You do not need that anger Severus," went on the Headmaster. "You can find much better things on which to anchor your life. When you understand this, then you will able to become what you should have been." He jabbed a finger at him. "You will be the one to take my place, when the time comes."

Take his place?

"Professor McGonagall ..." he began.

"Professor McGonagall is my deputy, but she does not wish to become Headmaster. We have discussed this, and she agrees with me that you would be a better choice." He smiled. "In a few years' time of course," he added.

"The reason I am here," continued Dumbledore firmly, "is to tell you that you are a gifted teacher, a fine wizard, and a good man. That was not always the case, but it is now." He stood up. "I realize that not everybody, least of all yourself, knows this, but it is time that you accept it."

For once, Severus literally didn't know what to say. He simply looked back numbly at the Headmaster who stood up. Dumbledore suddenly raised a finger, as if he had forgotten something.

"Oh, before I go, I have a minor request to ask of you."

"Sir?" The response was pure reflex.

"We will not be using Grimauld Place anymore, but the basement still contains a great deal of equipment for the Order. Could you please see to it that it be transferred to a safer place here?"

Severus blinked several times while he struggled to recover his wits.

"Yes, sir. I will contact Harry about it." His voice was strained, but obedience to the Headmaster was automatic.

Dumbledore smiled and waived his hand in an airy gesture of dismissal.

"This is no need for that. I already spoke with Miss Granger. It can be done this afternoon. She assured me that it would not be an inconvenience. I suggest that you ask Remus and Miss Tonks to help you."

"As you wish."

"That will be fine then. Have a good day, my friend."

He left, and Severus was alone once again, confused thoughts whirling in his head. He tried to return to his potion project, but it was impossible. He would lift the holding spell, fuss a little over the cauldron, and realize that he just couldn't concentrate. Then he would re-cast the spell, go back to his desk and try to understand what in Merlin's name was the matter with him. He did this twice and then just stopped trying to work. He simply sat in his favorite chair, watching the flames in the fireplace.

Severus Snape was far from stupid. It didn't take him long to realize that the Headmaster had done this deliberately, and to recall the similarity with the treatment he had himself applied to a certain Slytherin student.

Except that the Gryffindor way is to stun you with kind words.

What Dumbledore wanted him to do was clear enough. Get on with his life, and put the lost years behind him.

The old meddler just can't let things alone.

Perhaps it was more complicated than that. The Headmaster was not given to simple plans and single objectives. Wheels within wheels were second nature to him, but he was usually patient and subtle. Why did he speak so bluntly?

Because I was vulnerable, and he knew his words would be effective.

He didn't imagine for an instant that there was any sinister purpose behind it.

Of course it's for my own good!

Resentment flared in him. He'd never liked for others to influence him. Especially for his own good. After all, it implied that he wasn't able to think properly for himself. That he had to be prodded to do the right thing. The anger subsided and was replaced by fear and doubt.

Get on with my life. Become the next Headmaster.

He had no problem with the second objective, he was still a Slytherin after all, but he knew that the two things were linked. If he wanted the latter, then he would have to succeed in the former.

Am I really capable of it?

He was thirty seven years old. That was still young, especially for a wizard. But he did not feel young. Did the Voldemort Incident burn out all the fun and life out of him?

I made Draco confront his life. The least I can do is face mine as well.

He looked around at the room. These weren't uncomfortable quarters, but there was no spark in them. He tried to find something in the room which could not be said to exist for working, practical every day use, or the keeping of traditions. His eyes fell on the charcoal drawing on the wall. It showed the school buildings from a side perspective. It was probably the most personal thing he had, and it was a gift. The Headmaster had given it to him during his first year as a teacher.

When is the last time I went and bought something for myself, aside from necessities?

He couldn't remember. Suddenly, it seemed a very frightening thing to realize.

Severus sat silently and watched the logs burning.

- - -

Grimauld place,

Hermione burst into the living room, where the others were playfully trying out color combinations for the wallpaper, floor and furniture. The current result was atrocious, and their efforts appeared to have degenerated into a contest for the gaudiest mess. In other circumstances, she would have disapproved vocally, but something more important was on her mind.

"Didn't you read the Prophet?" she asked.

"Hermione, I stopped reading that crap days ago," said Ron. "At least the Quibbler's stories are fun."

"Well, maybe you'll find this amusing then."

She showed him the page with the announcements. He barely glanced at it. The papers had been full of those for the last days. This one mentioned an 'uplifting' ceremony planned by the Aurors Corps.

"So what?"

She handed him the opened letter for an answer. Ron made a face, but took it anyway. Half a second later his mouth was hanging open, and his eyes had doubled in size. Intrigued, Ginny moved closer to take a look herself.

"Merlin's beard!"

The others joined in, and soon they were all snatching the letter from each other as they read their names over and over again.

"Severus is nominated too," whispered Ginny.

Hermione hugged Harry fiercely. "And you've got the Order of Merlin First Class! Like Dumbledore."

"Oh boy, oh boy. OH BOY!" Ron was rubbing his hands together with an enormous grin on his face.

The house decoration didn't seem very important anymore. Ginny and Ron rushed to floo their parents. The others looked at each other with incredulous smiles.

Draco had a dreamy, awed expression. "When did they say the ceremony was?"

"In January. We'll be back at school."

- - -

Hogwarts,

Severus finally roused himself. He threw a pinch of floo powder in the fire. "Remus Lupin." He waited a few seconds.

"Yes? Hello there, Severus."

"Good morning. Did the Headmaster talk to you about transferring the Order's equipment from Grimauld?"

"Yes he did. He suggested we do it this afternoon. What time would be convenient for you?"

"I have a little brewing I need to finish first. How about three o'clock?"

"Fine, we'll meet over there then."

- - -

Grimauld,

Lunch took longer than usual, because the Elves had done some extra cooking to celebrate the good news. Hermione suddenly noticed the time when the clock chimed, and she precipitately ran out of the House to wait for the Parkers.

Their car was already there, and the three of them were looking around, perplexed at the missing Number 12. They were getting ready to go into the bar when Alicia spotted Hermione.

"There you are! But were did you come from?"

"It's a bit complicated to explain," said Hermione, handing them the slip of paper Dumbledore had given her. "Just read this quickly, the three of you, please."

They did so and gasped in amazement as the house suddenly materialized before them, weirdly displacing the other buildings at numbers 10 and 14. The children didn't stay fazed long, but Helen Parker kept a puzzled look on her face until she went inside.

Silena welcomed her friends joyfully. Helen was introduced to the rest of the assembly. Alicia and Richard looked around with curiosity, but the house didn't seem particularly exciting.

"Would you like some coffee?" proposed Hermione.

"With pleasure. Thank you."

They went into the kitchen. The table had been cleared except for a large cake.

"We didn't finish dessert," explained Silena. "Do you want some?" The twins agreed enthusiastically but Helen refused politely.

They proceeded to get to know each other over the coffee. Helen was a rather tall woman with short blond hair. She had a very fit figure and the healthy tone of skin associated with frequent outdoor living. She told them a little about herself. She was a Muggle scientist, teaching and doing research in biochemistry. Hermione ears pricked up at that, and she made a mental note to discuss her pet magical theories with her later.

The children asked permission to follow Silena to her room and left quickly. Helen explained how she had married a Wizard twelve years ago.

"And what does your husband do?" asked Harry.

A shadow crossed her face. "He's dead," she said softly.

An awkward silence followed. Harry kicked himself. This is called putting your foot in it.

"I'm sorry," he stammered.

She just looked a little sad. "It's all right. It happened a long time ago, soon after the children were born."

Luna reached out and touched Helen's arm. She projected comfort, and it seemed to help because Helen's face softened.

"We know what it is to lose loved ones," said the girl. "I lost my mother, Silena, Harry and Draco lost their parents. It's not the same, but we can sympathize."

"Thank you." She forced a happier expression on her face. "Let's rather talk about you. The twins told me you've saved the world single handedly."

Harry and Draco chuckled and the others grinned.

"Well, since it was a group effort," said Harry. "It should be at least six handedly."

"Or twelve," added Hermione.

- - -

Silena had been showing the house to her friends. They'd laughed at the mess in the living room. It hadn't been changed from the morning's experiments. They passed quickly over the rooms reserved for them, nothing special there. She led them to the 'work' rooms on the third floor.

"Don't touch anything," she said as Richard examined the library and Alicia peeked into the laboratories. "I don't really know if we're allowed to be there."

Richard was convinced that the house could be as plain as it looked. It was the home of some of the most powerful wizards and witches of England after all. It had to be something more than just a simple villa. He checked behind a cupboard to try and see if there wasn't a secret passageway.

"Yeah, you're right. We'll have time later." He was quite decided to come back here and explore any 'secrets' which might be lurking.

"Come on. I'll show you the garden and the pool."

"A pool?"

"Yes, and there's a Quidditch pitch too!"

"Whoa! Do you think that they'll let us play?"

They went outside, but of course the pool was closed up and the Quidditch area was deserted. They'd have to ask for brooms in any case. The garden was big enough for a playground however, and a snowball battle was just as satisfying to them.

- - -

In the kitchen Helen and the others had sipped coffee and talked a little more. The conversation returned to the vacation planning for the children.

"Oh my, I almost forgot," recalled Hermione. "Dumbledore told me that Silena was to be schooled with the first years, in Slytherin."

"Of course she is," replied Draco. "What other choice is there?"

"Well, she missed the first term, so we'll have to help her catch up." She turned toward Helen. "Do you think that Alicia and Richard could review some of their classes with her?"

"I don't see why not. Why don't we call them in?"

The children were searched for and finally located. They were wet, highly excited, and very cold. Winky made them some hot chocolate, while Hermione went to retrieve her first year textbooks.

Helen examined the potion manual with interest. She hadn't had the time to examine her children's books yet. She tried to apply some of her professional knowledge to the subject.

"I wonder how much of that is 'normal' chemistry and how much is pure magic?" she asked.

"I don't know," replied Hermione thoughtfully. "But it's a good question. Can you identify some active constituents in these ingredients?"

Harry and Ron exchanged amused looks. It was more than a week since her last class. Hermione must be suffering from a deficit of academic exercises, and she was being given a unique opportunity to indulge in her favorite pastime. Ron and Ginny took the occasion to leave the room.

The two were wrapped up in their conversation, and freely associating concepts from both worlds, when the silky voice of Severus startled them.

"What exactly are you talking about Miss Granger?" he asked.

She turned around guiltily. The potion master was looking at the opened text books and scowling furiously. He had certainly heard enough to realize what they had been discussing.

"Oh, Good afternoon professor. I, hum, we were discussing tutoring for Silena since the Headmaster told us ..."

"I know of her transfer," he interrupted. "Do you intent to make up for her lost schooling by teaching her biochemistry?" he sneered.

"Certainly not sir. The discussion was purely for my benefit," answered Helen, unfazed.

He turned his eyes upon her. "Madam?" he asked with distant politeness.

Draco rushed to make the presentations. "Sir. Mrs. Parker is the mother of Alicia and Richard. She's a scientist at the, ah, Imperial College. Mrs. Parker, this is professor Snape, the head of Slytherin House, Hogwarts' potion and defense master, and my godfather."

"Delighted to meet you professor," said Helen, holding out her hand.

"The pleasure in mine," he murmured. Barely touching her hand before letting it go. "Am I to understand that you are ..."

"She's a Muggle of course, sir," supplied Luna. He glared at her

"I'd be very interested in pursuing this exchange with you professor," continued Helen. "This textbook seems to be a very good practical introduction, but there is not much on theory. I'm curious. Could your area of work have some common points with mine?"

Severus made a heroic effort not to show how preposterous he thought the idea was. He reminded himself that he was a guest in another's house, after all.

"It is ... possible," he managed to say. From the corner of his eye he saw Harry fighting to control himself, and a flash of annoyance filled his mind.

Why is it that, every time we see each other, I get into these ridiculous situations.

"I do a lot of experimental research in my line of work, and I find that mixing disciplines often gives powerful insights," continued Helen.

That at least was not unreasonable. I better just say anything to end this humiliating exchange as quickly as possible.

"Certainly," he said with his best fake smile. Draco made a strangled noise, and Severus struggled to ignore him.

They must have planned this. I swear, I'll find the most repulsive job for them to do when they return. The snake vivarium hasn't been cleaned in...

"For example I was wondering what happened when a non magical person mixes one of these potions? Following the instructions perfectly of course."

"I beg your pardon?" What did she say!

She repeated calmly, and this time he listened, and was astonished to realize that he didn't have the slightest idea what the answer was.

"That's a good question all right," added Hermione. "I've wondered myself if there wasn't some implicit principles in potion making that everyone overlooked."

Goodness, all I need now if for Granger to put her two bits in. This is too much.

But it is a bloody good question all the same.

Severus was torn between rising intellectual curiosity, and extreme awkwardness at not being able to answer a seemingly simple question about his own field of competence. Then there was also the matter of doing the job for which he'd come here in the first place. All three things concurred to make him want to leave the room as fast as possible.

"If you will excuse me," he said hastily. "I have something very important to attend to."

Seeing him leave so briskly, Helen raised her eyebrow in interrogation and turned toward the others. They waited until the man was safely out of earshot before answering. Harry fell down on the floor, raked by silent guffaws as he allowed himself to release his rigid control. Draco was slumped on the table. His head was buried in his arms, and his shoulders were shaking with mirth. Luna was smiling and Hermione looked annoyed.

"Don't mind him," said Harry, wiping tears of laughter from his eyes. "Professor Snape is not a simple man to understand."

"And don't mind us either," added Draco, catching his breath. "Contrary to what you might think, we really like and respect each other a lot, but between you and Hermione, you've just pushed every button he has, and he couldn't do anything. I was so funny to watch and ... pfff." He exploded in laughter again.

"Boy, are we going to catch hell for that," added Harry. "But it was worth it ... pfff."

Hermione raised her eyes to the ceiling. "Boys!" she said in exasperation.

"He does seem rather unusual," asked Helen. "What kind of a teacher is he?"

Hermione started to explain. The boys' muffled laughs were getting on her nerves, so she took her aside to give as objective a description of professor Snape as she could.

- - -

Coming out the kitchen, Severus ran into Remus and Tonks as they arrived.

"Severus. Congratulation man," said Remus jovially. "We just received the good news." Severus realized that must be showing a strange expression, because they were looking at him as if he was not quite sane. "Er, you must have heard about it as well, yes?"

Of course, the Order of Merlin. He waved in hand negligently, as if such a matter was completely trivial.

"Severus, are you all right?" asked Tonks.

I need to get a grip on myself.

They saw him take a thundering breath and force a determined expression on his face.

"I'm fine. Never better. How are you two doing?"

"Severus ..." started Remus slowly, inquisitive concern all over his face.

The other wizard ignored it. "Come on. Let's get rid of this chore," he said firmly, moving rapidly toward the basement.

Remus looked at Tonks who shrugged, as perplexed as he was. They followed their colleague to the hidden room where the Order had prepared a cache of emergency equipment. Several heavy chests were lined up along one wall. Miscellaneous boxes and knapsacks had been piled on top of them in one corner. There was also some food and obvious medical equipment.

"Most of these belong to Hogwarts," explained Severus. "It was stored here when Umbridge took over the school." He indicated the pile of boxes. "You two can start on that first. The chests are warded and can't be moved as they are. I'll de-activate the protections."

Tonks and Remus started to evacuate the light stuff. He walked to the first chest, took out his wand and spoke the proper incantations. While he worked, his mind returned to the subject that the Muggle woman had raised.

What was her name again? Ah yes, Helen. Helen Parker. A scientist.

His knowledge of such people was limited. Few wizards relied on logic. Magic depended foremost on literal knowledge and a proper mental attitude. Wizards learned by rote, followed their intuitions and practiced assiduously. Only a small number of them attempted to understand basic principles behind their trade, and those that did rarely showed something for it. Hermione Granger tried constantly, but her success was mainly due to her superb memory and her capacity for work.

"Careful with that box," said Remus, "I don't think the lid ..."

CRASH!

"Damn!"

They turned anxiously toward Severus, anticipating a blistering retort, but he wasn't paying them any attention. He finished the first chest and checked absently that it had been safely un-warded.

Even in potions we barely classify the different ingredients into categories. In most cases, it would not make any sense. Everyone does the same thing: find a recipe in a book and try it out, and eventually experiment with minor variations.

He prided himself on his intelligence, but he used it in other areas, psychology and survival for example. Research in magical matter was mostly a matter of trying to discover secrets hidden by other wizards.

Have all known spells and potions been created by trial and error? That doesn't seem very efficient.

Charms and Arithmancy were the only exceptions he could think of. Charms and Runes could be combined with little interference, but they were the practically the only type of magic which could. It was one of the reasons why they were so useful.

Potions couldn't be combined safely in most cases. Developing new potions was a long and dangerous work. Mix incompatible ingredients together, and a catastrophic outcome could result.

If there was a way to combine potions like runes, it would be a major breakthrough.

If he could find how to do that, then he would be remembered as one of the greatest wizards. Such fame and prestige would matter much more than being one of the helpers of the Dark Lord's demise. It would be a fitting achievement for a future Headmaster.

"Severus?"

He came out of his reverie. "Yes?"

"Have you finished with the chests?"

He frowned. "What chests?"

That woman could help me. She seems curious enough. Maybe she has the training to analyze this problem. We could start by answering her question, although I don't think that...

Severus Snape had an Eureka moment, right then in the damp basement. He shut out the outside world completely and struggled to specify his idea clearly.

If Muggles can mix potions, then Muggle science can probably help me analyze the phenomena. If they can't, then a Muggle, or Muggle machinery could mix ingredients safely, which could then be used by a Wizard.

Either way it opened a whole new dimension in potion making.

"Severus!"

He vaguely focused on the man in front of him.

"What's the matter with you?"

He looked at Remus, and remembered where he was and what he was supposed to be doing, and dismissed it immediately.

"I am sorry. There is something extremely urgent which I must do right away. Can I leave you to finish this?"

"Now listen-" Remus didn't look happy.

"Please. I will make it up to you later. The wards are the same ones that Moody likes to use. You should have no trouble. Just store everything in my office. I will take care of the rest."

He raced up the stairs, hoping that the woman hadn't left yet. The kitchen was empty but sounds of laughter were coming from the living room. He rushed there, and stopped horrified at the garish display of primary colors. The students had explained to Helen what they had been trying to do, and even Hermione had finally consented to join in the fun. She hadn't done anything yet, but she was getting ready to try her hand at it, standing in the middle of the room with her wand in her hand.

"Merlin's beard! Miss Granger Why is it that each time I come upon you, I am reminded of a lunatic asylum?"

Hermione blushed furiously and tried to explain the situation. He cut her off.

"It does not matter. This is your house and you can decorate it as you see fit. I would however suggest warning signs on the doors. If the late Nigellus ever realized what you have been doing to his former dwelling, he would never allow you to visit the Headmaster's office again."

Hermione was mortified. She thought frantically about what she could do, and flashed her wand around her. The wall turned from electric blue to grey, the red leather chairs and sofa became night black, and the carpet changed to a deep green color. Magically speaking, it was a masterful demonstration of Transfiguration. The artistic result however was less than appealing.

Severus closed his eyes and squeezed the bridge of his nose. The very picture of long suffering patience.

"Miss Granger, I know that I favor black robes, and I will admit that sunbathing is not my favorite activity, but I am not a vampire, and I don't think any of you would wish to live in a funeral parlor." He opened his eyes and looked at her severely. "I am certain that you can do better than that."

Hermione gulped and waved her wand again. When she finished, the furniture was light brown and the wallpaper pale yellow. Draco pitched in and finished off some minor details, adding soft green tones to the remaining fixtures.

"Perhaps we can leave it at that for the moment," murmured Severus. Hermione twisted her mouth in apology. Doing his best not to smirk, he turned toward Helen.

"Mrs. Parker, please accept my apologies for having left you so brusquely. I have given some thought to your question, and to my immediate knowledge no one has ever explored the possibility you have suggested."

She looked graciously back at him.

"It might very instructive to experiment on this matter," he continued. "Would you be interested in a, ah, scientific, cooperation?"

He tried not to pay attention to Harry's expression of bewilderment.

"I'd be delighted. What do you propose?"

"I will have to think some more about the practical details, and perhaps you will have suggestions as well. Could we meet again in a few days?"

Helen looked at Hermione. "I'll be coming back here with the children on Monday, after Christmas. Would that be agreeable?"

"You would be very welcome to use our laboratory," proposed Hermione, in a bid to shore up her lost standing with the professor. "It's not that big, but it's quite adequate for simple potion work."

"I can confirm that sir," added Draco.

Severus hesitated. Working here had some advantages, while bringing a Muggle to Hogwarts was complicated. His main objection was that he didn't want any other wizard, or witch, to look too closely at what he was trying to do. It was his project after all. His eyes fell on Harry.

"It would be an honor to be of assistance professor," affirmed the boy, flashing his annoying smile.

"That is quite generous of you."

"We could even help out ..." Hermione started.

Some of his reluctance must have shown, because Harry's hand touched her briefly and she stopped.

"... but maybe you'd prefer to work alone," she finished, throwing a puzzled look at her boyfriend.

Severus wondered briefly if Harry could, by some fluke, read his mind at will. It wasn't a prospect he found comforting.

"That might be preferable, Miss Granger, but I thank you for your offer nonetheless."

He nodded toward Helen.

"I will see you here on Monday then. Now if you'll excuse me, I really must be going back to my work."

He left the room and all eyes turned upon Helen who looked back with a perplexed expression on her face.

"Great Gulping Gargoyles!" exploded Ron, expressing the common sentiment.

- - -

London,

Silena' first contact with her friends' world was the definitively non magical reality of the London rush hour traffic. At one point, she asked plaintively why Helen's car could not zip between the lanes, like she had seen the Ministry cars do. The response was frustrating since none of the Parkers had ever heard of magical cars, and she was hard pressed to clarify the phenomena. By that time, she was getting used to incomprehensible subjects, and she dropped it.

She didn't really know what to think of Muggles but one thing was certain. There were many of them.

The twins used the lengthy trip to describe their world to her, at least as much as they could. Strange concepts danced in her head. Petrol engine? Electric current?

If anyone asked her, she would remember that these strange metallic carriages needed a special exploding potion to operate, and that there was some strange liquid called electricity which flowed inside very small, flexible metal tubes, and made small transparent orbs shine brightly.

Hermione had given Helen some money with which to buy some standard Muggle clothes. They stopped at a department store for this and other miscellaneous supplies, and so it was well after nightfall when they finally made it to the Parkers' flat. Helen cooked them a quick dinner, and the children were sent off to bed.

Finally alone, she reflected silently about the events of the day. It had been her first real contact with wizards since Ethan had died. A long time had passed, and she had put those memories away.

Ethan Parker had been a young official, working in the Department of Muggle relations. They had met by chance, when she found herself an accidental and interested witness to an embarrassing Uncontrolled Magical Event as he called it.

Normal procedure would have been to obliviate her, but she had innocently offered her help, and it had proved useful. Instead of having had to ask for reinforcements, Ethan had been able to clean out most of the mess, while Helen had held out most of the bystanders at bay. Out of gratitude and sympathy, he had let her go, agreeing that she wouldn't be able to prove anything should she ever decide to go to the Muggle authorities. He'd also told her that in that case, they would erase her memories. She'd pledge her silence and proposed that they see each other again. One thing had led to another, and they had gotten married. It had been exciting and fun, but it had only lasted little more than two years. All that remained from it were Richard and Alicia, and memories.

She'd cut all links with this strange universe. Grief had been part of it, but there had been other reasons as well. A cold and unsympathetic Ministry woman had explained to her that the progeny of Muggles and Wizards did not automatically inherit magical powers. She would be notified if that was the case, but until then, it was better for the children to be kept away from the magical community. The few wizards and witches, whom she'd known as friends of Ethan, had also been advised to stay away from her. She'd accepted the decision, and closed off that part of her life. It had been painful but she had done it.

Over the years, Helen had rebuilt her life around new projects. The memories had grown hazy, and she had tried not to dwell of them, looking outward with resolute energy. It had paid off. She hadn't remarried, but at thirty two, she was still young. She had a lot of friends and a challenging job. Alicia and Richard had been told a minimum about their father, and the three of them lived as a happy family.

The previous summer, the past had come back brutally. She had been contacted by professor McGonagall, and told that the twins would have to go to a special school. While she was wondering how her life would change again, the professor had given her another shocking news. The wizard world was at war, and Muggle related people were particularly menaced.

"Your children will be safe at Hogwarts," she had said, "but you should limit direct contact to a minimum."

"But for how long?"

"We do not know. This is a very troubled time for us."

"What if I refuse to let Richard and Alicia go?" she had challenged.

Minerva hadn't been surprised by the question. She had lost count of the number of times, and different ways, she'd had to face it.

"We cannot allow runaway magical talent. You can choose another school. There is one in France and another in Eastern Europe. If we cannot convince you to have them educated, then we will have to stunt the children's powers."

"What do you mean 'stunt'?" The word had an ugly sound.

"Someone will operate of their minds to inhibit their development. I must warn you that such an operation is irreversible, and only executed as a mean of last resort." The expression on the ancient witch's face conveyed all the horror than such a terrible act evoked.

"That sounds awful."

"It is. In a way, the worse part is that the child often suffers from it. He will not remember what was done, but he will know that something important is missing from his life."

"You people are monsters!"

"No. Uncontrolled magical powers can be truly monstrous. Few of us are innocents, but compared to some we are angels indeed." Her face had softened. "I know that you have your children's best interest at heart. Believe me when I tell you that they will be happier in our world."

What about me? she had thought silently, not daring to voice the selfish question.

"Will I see them again?" She'd tried to keep the desperation out of her voice.

"Certainly. They can come back for the vacations, and you will keep in contact." McGonagall had smiled kindly, expressing genuine sympathy. "I know what happened with their father, and it is true that the situation of people such as you is awkward. Please trust me when I say that some of us are trying to make it easier."

She'd accepted of course, but it had reopened old scars. The pain had been tempered by the children's excitement, and their evident happiness. She'd read their letters and tried to follow events in the wizard community and at Hogwarts. She had lived with fear and hope for months, and only recently had she learned that it had all turned out well.

She was only beginning to understand what had happened. How extraordinary that those students had played such an important part in it. Going to their house to pick her Silena, she had expected to meet serious, impressive elf like beings, instead she had meet laughing young people, only a little different from the ones in her classes, much younger certainly, but she'd remembered that these people matured faster.

They'd had fun, playing around together, and yet Alicia had said that they were formidable fighters. Certainly they qualified as interesting people. She would be glad to meet them again.

Another surprise had been the other wizard, the professor. The Head of Richard's House, as they called their school sections. As strange a man as she had ever seen. He reminded her of one of the university's doyen. A fanatical, hard driving researcher with a brilliant mind, and little interest outside of his work. She sensed the same intellectual passion, mixed with something mysterious. A complex man, Hermione had said. Someone who meant a lot to them, but who appeared to keep to himself a lot. What would it be like working with him?

I didn't agree for anything more than a few hours' work, and in truth I will certainly learn something interesting.

Her eyes fell on Magical Drafts and Potions, lying across one the European Journal of Biochemistry. Two completely different worlds, and here she was stuck right in the middle. Alicia and Richard's path for the next seven years was clear, but which way would she go?

The Centaur's Shrine: Chapter 7 - Helen 1

Helen Ch7 - 19