The Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Legend of the Serpent's Tongue

Part 11

By the Dark of the Moon

Following their return to Hogwarts, Circe, Tiberius and Phaedra were shown to their quarters on the third floor. They were given a suite of rooms with two bedrooms, one for Circe and Phaedra, and a smaller one for Tiberius, opening off a large sitting room. In addition, there was a small office for Tiberius and a large bath.

Phaedra was delighted with the oversized canopy beds and immediately closed the bed curtains to play tent while her uncle helped Circe to settle in. Dumbledore had planned for them to visit Phaedra's new school in Hogsmeade the next day in order to acquaint Phaedra with her new teacher. She would be starting the fall term on September first since the village primary school and Hogwarts ran on the same schedule to avoid any inconvenience to the village families.

Remus and Sirius would continue to share a suite of rooms also, although they had been given larger quarters overlooking the lawn leading to the Forbidden Forest.

Severus' rooms were unchanged, and once he had seen that his sister and uncle were satisfied he immediately excused himself and headed for the dungeons to work on his lesson plans.

Harry also excused herself with the premise that she needed to confer with both Severus and Professor McGonagall to formulate the lesson plans for the classes she was to teach on both subjects.

"Severus, I'll be down in a little while since Professor McGonagall's office is over by the Transfiguration classroom."

"Very well, Harry. I know Minerva will want to spend some time going over the lessons with you. In the meantime, I will prepare an outline of what I expect from you with the younger students. I will also give you some assignments to work on with either myself, or my uncle for the Potions Master exam. We will arrange a time for you to do your independent study."

"Sev, stop trying to make me feel like I am back in your classroom; I graduated from Hogwarts two weeks ago, remember?" she grinned.

"My dear Miss Potter, you may have graduated, but it is up to me to see that you pass your Potions Master exam, therefore you are still under my tutelage and I will expect you to follow my directions," Severus arched his brow, giving her a wicked grin. He then turned on his heel, and moved silently down the hallway, calling over his shoulder, "I will expect to see you in my office within the hour." He then disappeared from sight.

"Severus Snape, somehow I think you will still be the strict task master you were while I was still a student," Harry muttered aloud, heading towards Professor McGonagall's office. "My guess is you were just toying with me over the summer when it came to that exam," she sighed, reaching her destination, and rapping on the door.

"Enter," McGonagall responded.

Harry opened the door, gingerly stepping inside. She felt as nervous as if she were still one of her students.

"Ah...Harry, I have been expecting you," she smiled, looking at Harry over her spectacles. "It's nice to see you again, my dear."

"It's nice to see you too, Professor."

"Please, I told you to call me Minerva," she replied in her thick brogue.

"I know," Harry grinned, "it's just hard to get used to calling you by your first name."

"You'll get used to it. It took me a little while when I first started teaching too. One day we're your instructors and the next we are colleagues."

"It does feel weird, but I'm getting used to the idea."

"Good, now let me show you what is required of the grades you will be teaching. It has only changed slightly since you started here as a student," Professor McGonagall stated. Directing Harry's attention to the required textbooks, she showed her the outline that had been prepared for Harry to begin formulating her lesson plans. "In the future you will be doing this on your own, but new teachers get a bit of a break," the elder witch informed her pleasantly.

"That's good, because I really want to do this right," Harry answered a little overwhelmed at the amount of preparation that the teachers actually had to do before even beginning their classes.

"Don't worry, dear, you'll do just fine," McGonagall said, patting her hand. "Now tell me, did you enjoy your visit to Brittany?"

"It was fabulous. We all had a great time. I wish we could have stayed longer."

"I have always liked Brocelainde too. It is such a lovely place, and you can still feel the magic emanating from it."

"I know, and Merlin's grave was just awesome. It made me more aware of my powers. I don't know how, but when I stood there, I felt...I don't know...some kind of strength flowing through my body...it was almost like electricity," Harry proclaimed, trying to describe her experience.

"I'm glad you had such a nice time," McGonagall remarked, studying Harry intently. "Now if I am not mistaken Severus will want to go over his potions requirements with you too. I hope he was not too upset with the change in curriculum."

"He was Severus," Harry laughed, and McGonagall nodded in understanding. "I think it would have been worse except that his uncle will be teaching the older students."

"I know. He has a tremendous respect for Tiberius. He is quite a remarkable man."

"I don't know too much about him, but I do like him. He has been helping me with my potions and I thought Severus made it look simple. Tiberius is absolutely amazing."

"He could have been the most respected Potions Master of our time, but he chose instead to go into the import export business. He found potions too lame. I know the Ministry often asks him to proctor for the NEWT's in both Potions and Defense Against the Dark Arts."

"Did you go to Hogwarts with him?" Harry asked curiously."

"He was several years ahead of me. I believe he was a fifth year when I started. I didn't know him personally at that time, but I knew who he was. I know he kept to himself a lot, much like Severus did, but he refused to stay with the boys who became some of Grindelwald's followers."

"Did he ever marry?"

"I believe there was talk of a girl he was in love with, but their families did not approve. It was rumored that she was a Muggle born and of course, the Snape family were all purebloods. Apparently, her family took her to live in Belgium during the war with Grindelwald, as she was younger than Tiberius was and still in school. I do not know what actually happened, but I heard that she and her parents died in one of Grindelwald's raids. After that, Tiberius separated himself from his family and refused to have anything to do with them. He was the younger brother, Severus' grandfather being a few years his senior. He came to work for Albus to help prevent any further atrocities."

"If he had nothing to do with his brother how did he come to know Circe and Severus?"

"He knew Severus' father's first wife Eleanor, since they were in school together. It had been an arranged marriage and Severus' father was an abusive husband, and much older that she was. When she became ill, she contacted Tiberius in secret and begged him to look after Circe. He promised he would, and while he could not get custody of the child, he warned him that if she were harmed in any way, he would see to it that she became an orphan."

"Did he carry out the threat? I mean, it was his nephew. Surely his estranged brother would have interceded."

"I don't know. I do know that he was always there making sure Circe was well cared for; at least by the house elves. Her stepmother was a neglectful bitch," McGonagall spat.

"Professor McGonagall!" Harry shook her head in amazement. "I don't think I have ever heard you curse before."

"Sorry dear, I don't usually gossip like this but I know you are often kept in the dark about things that have happened. Some of this might help you to understand Severus a little better. Anyway, Severus mother could have cared less about him. She was only interested in the Snape name and fortune. She provided the heir and then went on her way, spending money and going to parties. Severus was a lonely little boy, and Circe did what she could, but once she was away at Hogwarts...well...," McGonagall shrugged.

"I guess Tiberius didn't get too involved with him, then?"

"On the contrary, he did, but Severus was so deeply hurt and had been shunned for so long that he did what he thought his father would have wanted just to try and gain his approval. Unfortunately, it was a tragic mistake. Thank Merlin that Circe and Tiberius came to his rescue along with Albus," Professor McGonagall sighed. "You have been good for him too."

"He only hated me for the first five years of school," Harry laughed.

"No dear, you simply reminded him of your father, but he tried his hardest not to let it cloud his judgment, although I did hear about that incident with the pensive."

"Yeah, well...that also had its downside for me too. I realized my dad was not the perfect man I had painted in my mind. Neither was Sirius or Remus for that matter."

"They weren't really bad boys, just adventurous. It is just a shame that they did not like Severus. Things may have turned out differently if he had been sorted into Gryffindor instead of Slytherin."

"Who knows? It is entirely possible that the reverse is also true about me," Harry remarked thoughtfully.

"I will never believe that," Professor McGonagall stated firmly. "Now you had better be on your way," she said glancing the clock on the wall.. "Severus will be getting anxious, and you know how he hates tardiness."

"Oh great, I'm over twenty minutes late," Harry replied, hastily collecting her papers and heading for the door. "I will see you at dinner Pro...er...I mean Minerva," she chuckled, and the older witch smiled and nodded in agreement. Harry flew down the hallway and used one of the hidden passages to access the dungeons faster. Reaching Severus office door, she knocked, briskly, opening the door at his reply.

"Come in, Potter, you're late as usual."

"Professor McGonagall took longer than I had expected," Harry replied, ignoring the fact that they had actually been discussing the man who was now glaring at her from over his desk, taking the seat in front of him.

"You might have sent word down to me that you would be delayed. Minerva does have a fireplace you could have used to contact me," he stated in annoyance.

"I apologize for not contacting you, but we both lost track of the time. Besides you could have contacted her to see why I was delayed," Harry retorted smartly.

"It wasn't that long ago that your cheekiness would have cost Gryffindor some house points," Severus reminded her looking down his nose.

"Professor, I don't think I need to remind you that I will be teaching here too, and that Slytherin students can get a bit disobedient at times too. I hope as my supervisor you will support my decisions when it comes to disciplinary actions." Harry stared back at him in defiance.

"As your supervisor and Head of Slytherin House I hope you will use appropriate judgment when meting out punishments," Severus sneered.

"I will treat the Slytherin students in the same manner as you treat the Gryffindors," she smiled wickedly, challenging him to be fair.

"Then it should prove to be a very interesting school year...very interesting indeed," he remarked arching his brow. "Now shall we get started? I believe the outline that Minerva gave you can be modified to fit my requirements for the Potions classes. I will also need to set up times for you to do independent study towards the Potion Master's exam. I have received the forms for you to fill out to register for the exam. Let's hope you don't fail for your tardiness, shall we?" he remarked sarcastically, handing her the paperwork.

Harry did not give him the satisfaction of a reply, and began filling out the forms, before turning her attention to the outline format. Severus wanted her to combine the theory with the actual lab work by the end of the second week. He also reminded her of his rule that no student would be permitted to mix any ingredients until they had passed the safety exam with a grade of B and wrote an essay on the dangers involved in the making of potions."

"May I make up my own exam, or should I use yours?" Harry asked curiously.

"You may make up your own, but as your supervisor I want to approve it first. I will still expect a grade of B on it though. Later on, if you teach potions on your own, it will be up to you to determine what grade you want on that particular test. I do however recommend that you do not drop it from your curriculum."

"I may change the passing grade to a C+ but make the essay longer," Harry mused. I would do it now, but I know better than to even ask you."

"What makes you so certain I won't agree?"

"You already told me you will require the grade, and I am an untried instructor," she grinned, as he nodded in agreement. "Besides, I never heard of anyone who didn't eventually pass the test."

"It is simply memorization."

"I know, necessary, but boring. Will there be anything else?"

"No. I will give you two days to complete the lesson plan and return it to me for my consideration before we pass it on to Minerva for her final approval."

"Two days!" Harry exclaimed. "Severus that's impossible."

"I think it should be more than enough time. You need only do the lessons for the first half of the year as we do one for each semester."

"What if you don't like it?"

"That is why I am only giving you two days. If you take longer and it is unsatisfactory you will be hard pressed to get done on time. Remember you also have to do one for Minerva."

"At least she gave me four days for hers," Harry muttered.

"Which is understandable, since you are quite talented in Transfiguration, as it is one of your specialties. Potions is not. I will expect a good deal from you, Harry, and I know you are capable of giving it to me or I would not ask."

"Somehow I think there is a compliment in there, and as soon as I figure it out, I may just thank you."

"I will be waiting. You can go now, Harry. I still have to work on the rest of my lesson plan for the older students."

"What about the one for Defense Against the Dark Arts?"

"I have already completed it."

"I should have guessed. Severus..." Harry began uncertainly.

"What is it Harry?" he asked his voice softening.

"You aren't going to embarrass Remus with his being a werewolf are you?" she asked in a rush, remembering how he had told the students about him at the end of third year.

"No, Harry, I will not say anything," he answered aloud. 'No, I would not want to hurt you like that. I know how much Lupin means to you. He has been a good protector and friend to you,' Severus considered to himself.

"Thanks," she smiled, leaning over the desk to give him an appreciative peck on the cheek.

"Now I suggest you go and get started before dinner. I will see you later."

"All right," Harry answered, once again gathering her belongings, and leaving his office.

Severus Snape sat quietly for a few moments, fingers steepled beneath his chin, staring after Harry. 'She will be a wonderful addition to our household, and her powers are still growing. I know Uncle will be pleased with the match. Now all I have to do is to convince her. I know Black will do whatever makes her happy, even if it means her marriage into the infamous Snape family. Humph...as if the Black's were a virtuous family,' he thought, twisting his lips into a grim smile...

Harry reached her room on the second floor just as Sirius and Remus were coming out of theirs. She was still upset with Sirius and did not wish to speak with him, so she merely nodded to Remus and ignored her godfather. Entering her room, she was greeted by a soft bark.

"Woof," Snuffles got up from the hearthrug, and came over to her mistress.

"Snuffles!" she exclaimed with delight, "I wonder who brought you up from Hagrid's," Harry remarked scratching her behind the ears affectionately. "I missed you while I was away," she cooed burying her face in the soft black fur. "I could use some puppy love right about now. Do you think I am acting silly being jealous of Circe?" Harry questioned the dog, not really expecting an answer. "It's just that she is a beautiful woman, and Sirius has been paying her quite a bit of attention since our vacation. I don't know what to do," she sighed moving over to give the dog a treat from the can she kept on the mantelpiece. "Oh well, I had better get started on those lesson plans. I know Severus is planning on making me do it a second time, so I will just have to make sure I do it right the first time," Harry informed the dog, with a mischievous laugh.

Sitting down at her desk, she started doing her lesson plans, and had just finished the plan for Transfiguration, when she realized her stomach was growling. Glancing at her watch, she noted that it was almost five thirty. It was time to go on down and get something to eat. Not sure if the meal would be served in the Great Hall, she rang for one of the house elves to find out where to go.

"Harry Potter, welcome home," Dobby's happy voice greeted her.

"Thank you, Dobby. It is good to be back. I brought you a present too," she grinned.

"You brought Dobby a present?" he asked. Hopping excitedly from one foot to the other and trying to hide his blush by pulling his large ears over his face, his big green eyes peeking out excitedly. "Dobby is flattered that Harry Potter would think of him while on her holiday, and you brought me back a...a...present," he sobbed throwing himself into her arms.

"Dobby...Dobby...calm down. I brought presents for all my friends," Harry stated firmly, pulling the elf from around her. "Come over here," she said going over to open her trunk, "this is for you." Harry had brought him back a complete outfit from a children's store. It was a pair of knickers, in a loud orange plaid with a matching solid orange shirt. There was also a pair of orange socks with a plaid beret.

"All this is for me?" Dobby questioned bursting into tears. "Harry Potter is...the kindest...and...greatest witch...there ever was. Dobby is...priveledged to...have her...as his friend," he cried.

"Then do me a favor and stop crying. I am glad you like the outfit. Now where will we be having dinner tonight? Nobody told me where to go."

"The full staff has not yet arrived, so the Headmaster has requested that dinner be served in the garden tonight. He will be dining privately with the new professor from Central America."

"Have you seen her yet?"

"No, but I know she arrived about an hour ago."

"Well, since the Headmaster will be entertaining this evening, would you please have my dinner brought up to my room? If anyone asks just tell them I am busy working on my lesson plans and didn't want to be interrupted."

"Is Harry Potter unhappy about something?" The perceptive elf questioned.

"Never mind, Dobby, it is a private matter. So I will take my meal here and then take Snuffles out later for some exercise."

"Dobby will do as Harry Potter requests, but Dobby is worried she seems troubled."

"Then make me happy and enjoy your new clothes. I have to get my work done," Harry dismissed him, and he disappeared with a pop.

A few minutes later, the food appeared on the table in her sitting room. After seeing to Snuffles dog food, Harry sat down to eat her dinner. She felt lost and alone, and missed the company she had become so used to. Severus quiet conversations with his uncle, Phaedra's happy babbling about her day, Remus and Sirius teasing and Circe's quiet dignity. They were her family, but she felt they had not wanted her there with them since returning home from Brittany.

'I hope it is just my overactive imagination but it seems to me that Sirius and Circe did spend a lot of time together while we were in France. He is also spending more time with Phaedra than me...,' she thought considering the possibility she did not want to face. 'Please Merlin; if he really loves her don't let him see how hurt I am. I want him to be happy, even if it means I have to give him up...' A lone tear slid silently down her cheek, as she looked at the sumptuous meal of fried chicken, potato salad, and a fresh tossed salad. She forced herself to eat, knowing Dobby would tell Professor Dumbledore if she didn't, and then turned her attention to Snuffles.

"Come on, girl, let's go for a walk. I know you have to go out by now." Whistling for the dog to follow she headed out of her room and downstairs. She exercised Snuffles for a while, and turned to go back into the building when she heard the sounds of Sirius motorcycle, flying overhead with Phaedra. Sirius landed the motorcycle a few feet away, and Harry forced herself to walk up to them.

"Miss Harry did you see us flying?" Phaedra asked excitedly.

"Yes, Phaedra, I did. Are you having a good time?"

"Oh yes," she breathed happily. "Mr. Sirius is a good driver."

"How about it Harry, am I a good driver?" Sirius asked with a wink.

"I wouldn't know since I haven't had a ride in a long time."

"How about if I take you for one tomorrow? I made plans with Circe for this evening, and we're late now," Sirius replied as Circe came over with Remus and Tiberius.

"Do I have to go in now, Mummy?"

"Would you like to play with Hannibal for a little while?" Remus asked pleasantly, taking her off the back of the motorcycle.

"Miss Harry would you and Snuffles stay and play too?"

"No, Phaedra, I'm afraid I have work to do," Harry replied curtly, glaring at Circe and Sirius. "If you will all excuse me I only came out to walk the dog."

"Princess, is something wrong?"

"No, Remus, not a thing," Harry replied unable to hide the rising anger in her voice as she brushed passed him and ran into the castle, Snuffles bounding off ahead of her, and running full force into Severus.

"Harry you seem rather perturbed about something. It wouldn't have to do with my sister and Sirius Black now would it?" he queried with a cold smile. "He has a reputation for breaking hearts, you know," Severus called as she raced up the stairs.

Reaching her room she lay down on her bed, and tried desperately to force down the hurt and jealousy that was consuming her. She was furious at Severus too. 'How dare he say that Sirius and Circe were...were...damn, why does he have to be so happy about it? You would think he wouldn't want his sister to see him! What did I do wrong? Am I so blind that I really believed he could love me other than as my godfather?' Harry thought miserably, tears filling her eyes. She was startled by a knock on her door.

"Who is it?" she asked hurriedly wiping her face.

"Princess, it's me. Can I come in?" Remus worried voice called.

"Please Miss Harry?" Phaedra sobbed from behind the door.

"What is it?" Harry questioned opening the door to them.

"May we come in?" Remus queried cautiously.

"I'm not stopping you."

"Miss Harry why are you mad at me?" Phaedra pouted, lower lip quivering as she started to cry again.

"I'm not mad at you, Phaedra," Harry comforted Phaedra with a hug. "I just have a lot on my mind. I didn't mean to snap at you outside."

"You're sure I didn't do something to make you mad?"

"No, you didn't do anything."

"Princess, it will be all right," Remus consoled her gently, as another knock came on Harry's door.

"Come in," Harry called pulling the door open. It was Severus.

"Harry, I came to take Phaedra upstairs. Uncle Tiberius and I are going to take her down to see the squid while her mother and Black are in Hogsmeade." Snape informed her, eyes glittering with triumph.

"Miss Harry will you come too?"

"I can't baby. I really do have work to do, but I promise to take you to the candy store in Hogsmeade tomorrow, so long as it is okay with your Mum. I know you are supposed to go and see your new school."

"Can you buy me some candy?"

"Why else would we go to the candy store? I could use some nice chocolate frogs myself, and I'll bet the Headmaster would like some treats too."

"You hear that Uncle Sev? Miss Harry and I are going to buy some candy tomorrow!"

"I am sure you will enjoy it," Severus smiled at his niece. 'Harry is close to Phaedra. I wonder if she would be interested in spending time with me if we take Phaedra with us.' Snape mused. "Perhaps Miss Harry and I should give you a tour of the castle? Would you like that?"

"Would you, Miss Harry? I think it would be so much fun. We could hide on Uncle Severus!"

"I think it could be arranged. No go on and have a good time looking at the squid. What did you name him again?"

"Blue eye, because his eye is blue."

"I'm sure he likes it very much. No one ever named him before," Harry grinned. "Just don't end up in the lake."

"I won't," Phaedra promised, taking Severus hand, and leaving her alone with Remus.

"Feeling better, Princess?"

"Remus, I'm fine."

"No, my werewolf senses tell me you are upset and angry."

"So what if I am?"

"Listen, sometimes Padfoot can be a real ass. If you and he are to be together it will happen in its own good time. Don't force the issue."

"It's that obvious, huh?"

"Sure is," Remus smiled, gently brushing the hair from her face.

"Remus it just...hurts...to see him with...with...someone else."

"Like Circe?"

"Especially Circe, and Severus is enjoying every minute of it."

"He loves you too, just like I do."

"I know, but you aren't in love with me. I can sense the difference."

"Is Severus in love with you?"

"I'm not sure. He may be, but his emotions aren't easy to interpret when it comes to his affections. I just don't want any of you to be hurt, especially Severus. He has had a good deal of pain already."

"Is it possible you're in love with him?"

"Maybe, but I love Padfoot too...I thought he felt the same...until now."

"Is he in love with Circe?"

"That's just it. I can feel that she is very much in love, and so is he...but something is not right. I keep telling myself it's because I'm jealous...Oh, Remus...I...I...feel so...bad," she finished lamely.

"Sh...Princess, the Muggles have a saying, If you love something, set it free. If it comes back, it will always be yours. If it doesn't come back it was never yours to begin with."

"I've heard it before. I am trying. Sirius deserves to be happy. He spent all those years in Azkaban. I wish you could find someone too," Harry said resting her head on his chest.

"I will be happy just knowing you are safe and well. Padfoot is here for me too," Remus replied soothingly.

"I'll tell you what," Harry remarked with a shy grin, "if you don't find a nice young woman who loves you and I am still single by the time I'm thirty we should just marry one another."

"Remus threw back his head in laughter, "You my dear are a little minx." He hugged her affectionately.

"Remus, I'm serious."

"I know, and I will accept your proposal. If we're both still single by the time you're thirty I will marry you and we will settle down and have a houseful of children."

"Good, and if I do get married I will fight with the Ministry tooth and nail so that you can be the godfather to my children."

"Thanks," he smiled, hazel eyes serious. "Now why don't you show me how you are coming with those lesson plans. Maybe I can help?"

"Remus I could kiss you," Harry smiled, giving him a quick peck on the cheek. "You're a life saver."

"Severus giving you a hard time?" he inquired conjuring up a chair beside her desk.

"He is being Mr. Perfection as usual."

"Then let's beat him at his own game. Then I will look at what you have done for Minerva. She can be a tough task master too."

"She is fair in her assessments. Severus is not always the easiest man to please!"

"Especially if you're a former Gryffindor and the daughter of James Potter," Remus stated matter of factly, hazel eyes amused.

"You know, Professor McGonagall thinks that if he had been sorted into Gryffindor he just may have been a Marauder too."

"Ever wonder what would have happened if Sirius had been a Slytherin like the rest of the Blacks?"

"Remus, I don't believe such a thing would have happened even if he didn't meet my father. He has the heart of a lion, even if he is a mischief-maker. He is a passionate man, and it shows, but he will admit his mistakes. Severus does not. It is one of their differences."

"I suppose Severus is a cold snake?"

"No, silly, he is just quiet and cunning. He watches and waits, then makes his move, just like a serpent but his heart is in the right place. He is the opposite of Sirius in that respect."

"I see, and what about me?"

"You really are the sensible one. You are as passionate as they are, but you reason things out, and look at life in a much more logical manner. Sirius is impulsive, where as Severus is calculating."

"What about Albus, how do you look at him?"

"All three and cuddly too," Harry laughed. He is shrewd and knows how to manipulate people so that they tell him what he wants to know without making them feel like they are being used. He is also kind and generous and cares very deeply for those he loves. That is why he is our Trust Keeper. Of all the people on this earth, I would trust him with my life, and I have, along with the three of you."

"He is a good man, Harry. I owe him a lot. We all do."

"I know," she agreed, "now what do you think of my lesson plans?"

"I want you to make a few changes. You are going too fast with the transfiguration class. You are going to find that you need to start with something smaller. You don't have to use a needle like Minerva does, but try something in the same vein."

"How about transforming a thimble into a button?"

"That's good. Keep going from small things to something similar or something a little bigger. Other than that it looks good. You have put the required exams in the proper places. You may also want to do a demonstration of your own abilities like Minerva does. I seem to remember hearing you and Ron were quite impressed on your first day when she transformed from her tabby cat," Remus teased.

"Ha ha, very funny," she grinned, red faced, "but I think it would be a good idea. I will wait for the students to come in as my phoenix. It can be very impressive. There is a perch in the transfiguration room for when the students work with the birds, so I can sit on it."

"I am sure the first years will give you their full attention when they see what you can do."

"What about the potions? How bad does it look?"

"Well, not being an adept at potions myself, I am not the one to tell you. I would however change this lesson on sleeping draughts. Do the Pepper-up potion first. I think you should ask Tiberius. He will be flattered that you came to him, and amused since he knows how Severus is with his students."

"What if he tells Severus I asked him for help?"

"He won't have to. I think Sev will know just by the way the lesson plan is presented to him."

"But he might get mad at me."

"I don't think so. If anything he will be pleased that you were not afraid to go to his uncle for assistance. Mind, Tiberius won't do it for you, he will just point you in the right direction."

"I wouldn't expect anyone to do it for me. I am merely asking the more experienced instructors for their assistance in doing it correctly," she pursed her lips, looking coyly at Remus.

"Well, from what I have seen so far, you are doing quite a good job on your own. You shouldn't have much difficulty at all next semester. Just use your originals as a guideline, and you will be able to improve your technique as you go along. So long as you understand the basic principles of the material, you will be able to apply it to whatever subjects you elect to teach in the future," Remus explained, pleased with her determination to succeed.

"Then I think I will go and see if Tiberius has some free time to review what I have already done. I know they are probably still down by the lake with Phaedra. She seems to like that squid for some reason."

"Probably because she never saw one before, she also likes to name everything. Did you know she wants to name my wolf?"

"On no!" Harry exclaimed laughing. "What does she want to call him?"

"Romulus," he replied rolling his eyes.

"Well it makes sense. I guess she forgot the fact I called the wolf Captain?"

"I reminded her of that."

"What did she say?"

"Oh, she remembered, but thinks Romulus is a better name. It seems that her great uncle told her the story of Romulus and Remus and she decided that the wolf is my twin half. Therefore his name should be Romulus and not Captain."

"Well then, Captain Romulus," Harry curtseyed mockingly, "it is nice to make your acquaintance."

"Grrrrr...." Remus growled deep in his throat, hazel eyes watching her closely. His heightened senses caught the scent of her perfume, as he drew his lips back showing his teeth with a crafty smile. "Nice perfume, what's it called?"

Harry started to giggle uncontrollably, struggling to answer.

"Full...Moon...Madness...naturally. You gave it...to...me...for my birthday," she laughed tears coming into her eyes.

"So I did," he hugged her. "What else would you expect from a werewolf?"

"Argh...you are just as crazy as Padfoot! No wonder I worry about the both of you so much."

"You mean you don't worry about Severus?"

"Him too, except he doesn't get into as much trouble. I have to worry that he will get himself trapped by vengeful Deatheaters. No wonder I'm so mixed up!"

"Then how about we go and take a walk to the lake so you can at least get your lesson plans done. Then you can spend some time with me. There isn't any moon tonight so we could look at the stars from the Astronomy Tower together."

"Yeah, right. You bloody well know that Sirius is out with Circe and Sev is helping to watch Phaedra, so it might just be a good time for a wee bit of snogging in the tower!"

"Who me? I'm just an innocent little werewolf."

"Dressed in sheep's wool and trying to seduce young virgins with those big sad eyes of yours," Harry grinned gathering her papers to show Tiberius. "Come on, let's go for that walk. As for the Astronomy Tower, I'll think about it."

Harry and Remus headed back out of the castle, and found the two elder Snapes sitting on the bench by the lake immersed in conversation. Phaedra was circling; trying to get the squid to come in closer to shore, but the giant creature was staying just far enough away to entice her towards the edge of the lake.

"Miss Harry! Mr. Remus! Look at Blue Eye! Isn't he adorable?"

Remus and Harry exchanged amused glances. Neither would ever have called the squid beautiful.

"Phaedra, stay away from the edge of the lake," Tiberius warned. "Remember what happened to your mother the day of the graduation."

"Oh, but Blue Eye is a good squid. Mummy says he only likes to play."

"Just the same, you are not a good swimmer."

"Yes, Uncle Tiberius," Phaedra sighed. "Miss Harry do you think you could catch the squid and shrink him for me? He would make a fun pet."

"Phaedra, what about Hannibal? I thought you liked having a dog." Harry remarked.

"I do, but Blue Eye would be fun to watch. I could keep him in a tank in my room."

"Don't you think he would be unhappy living in a tank instead of having the lake to play in?" Remus reasoned with the child.

"I didn't think of that," Phaedra pouted. "I guess I will just have to visit him here. I want him to be happy."

"That is an excellent idea," Tiberius agreed. "Harry, I see you have brought your paper work with you. It is a pleasant evening to sit and do it outside. Would you object if I took a look?" Tiberius asked.

"Not at all," Harry agreed thrilled that she didn't have to ask him. "I would welcome your opinion," she said handing him the folder full of papers.

"Phaedra, you are too close to the edge again," Severus warned, arching his brow.

"Look Uncle Sev," Phaedra giggled, "he is tickling me!" The squid had reached one of its long tentacles out of the water and was running the edge along Phaedra's tummy, exploring.

"Phaedra! Back away..." Severus began.

Splash! Blue eye had grabbed hold of the child and pulled her into the lake. She was struggling against him in terror as he pulled her further from shore.

"Phaedra, relax and he will release you!" Severus yelled as the men all pulled out their wands simultaneously to try to stun the animal.

"No! She is too far out! He might submerge," Harry yelled transforming. Flying out over the lake, she dove down to distract the huge animal, who was tracking her movements, blue eye watching intently. His long tentacles were flying up in an effort to grab onto the big red phoenix, but Harry was just out of his reach. Swooping down, she grabbed onto Phaedra with one claw and dug the other into the soft flesh of the giant squid, causing him to release his grasp.

"Stupefy!" three voices yelled at once, stunning the animal, enabling Harry to escape safely with Phaedra before the angry animal could grab hold a second time.

Harry landed a good distance away from the lakeshore, setting the terrified child down beneath a large oak tree, and transformed. Phaedra was soaking wet and crying.

"Miss Harry, Blue Eye tried to hurt me," she sobbed as Harry cradled her in her arms. "I though he was friendly?"

"He is, Phaedra, but he will pull people out into the lake. We tried to tell you," she replied gently pushing the wet hair from the child's face.

"Phaedra! Are you all right?" Severus asked running over to where Harry had taken her to safety.

"I think she is just frightened, and she swallowed some water," Harry remarked using her healing energy to further examine the little girl as Severus knelt beside her.

"Harry I want to thank you for your help rescuing Phaedra," Tiberius remarked quietly. He and Remus had come over with Severus. "I think we should get her back inside and give her a nice hot bath, and an early bedtime. She has had enough excitement for one day."

"My thoughts entirely, Uncle," Severus concurred.

"I think we should dry her off first," Harry added pulling out her wand and doing a drying spell on the shivering child.

"Let me take her," Severus added. Picking up his niece, he wrapped her in his cloak, doing a warming spell at the same time. "Come along Little Miss, let's go and get you cleaned up. Then you can have a nice snack before you go to bed," he cooed gently, cradling Phaedra in his arms.

"Can I have some strawberry ice cream?"

"We'll see," he replied, moving off in the direction of the castle.

Harry smiled at the exchange, moved by Severus concern for the little girl. 'He really does love her. I wish I could figure him out. One day he is cold as ice and the next...'

"Harry, did you know you have a silly smile on your face?" Remus queried.

"What, oh, I was just thinking how concerned Severus is with Phaedra. It is one of the few times he lets his sensitivity show," Harry replied looking at the two men, a slight flush creeping up her cheeks.

"There is no need to feel embarrassed, Miss Potter, my nephew sets great store by his family. It is just not his usual custom to display his feelings in public."

"Tiberius is right, Princess. Severus showed just as much concern for you when you were injured during your struggle with Voldemort."

"I wish he would show his feelings more often. Even the students would be more relaxed with him."

"Give him time, Miss Potter. He has had a long time to keep things bottled up inside, and his years of spying for the order also took their toll."

"The older I get the more I realize just how many lives Voldemort ruined, Professor. What's even sadder is that if he had directed his energies into doing good, he really may have become the greatest Wizard that ever lived."

"Perhaps, Miss Potter, but we will never really know, so it is not even worth the effort to contemplate what might have been. We should focus on what can still be. Your own powers are considerable and still growing. You may very well become the greatest witch of the age," Tiberius complemented.

"I don't know about that, but thank you for the compliment anyway," Harry beamed, flattered by the older wizard's recognition of her abilities. "So how am I doing with the lesson plan for the Potions classes?"

"Quite well, actually, but I have made a few suggestions in the margins for you. It will save time, and will actually help you to demonstrate the principles involved in the lesson."

"Thank you, Professor, and if Sev says it isn't up to his standards I will just have to tell him that I was just following your suggestions."

"I would love to see the look on his face," Tiberius chuckled. "Now if you two will excuse me, I had better go and see how he and Phaedra are doing." Tiberius nodded moving off towards the castle.

"He is a remarkable man," Remus stated. "I once heard him say that the sorting hat almost put him into Ravenclaw."

"Hey, that hat almost put me in Slytherin and Hermione in Ravenclaw. Didn't you once say that you were surprised it put you into Gryffindor?"

"True, but who really knows what he sees in our minds."

"Yeah, like what was in Pettigrew's head when he was sorted?" Harry shuddered.

"Princess, we will never know the answer to that. All I can say is that somewhere along the line the boy we all knew changed. You saw what he was like. A weak and fearful man, yet loyal to the Dark Lord till the end." Remus' voice was serious, and Harry could see the sadness creep into his eyes.

"Come on, let's go and watch the sun set from the Astronomy Tower. Who knows, you may just get to kiss the innocent young virgin," she teased wickedly, darting off towards the castle.

Remus followed, laughing deep in his throat, and entering the building, they both collided with Professor McGonagall.

"Good evening, Minerva," Remus smiled boyishly. "Going out for a walk?"

"I generally do this time of day. I find it very peaceful and it gives me time to think."

"Then don't let us detain you." Harry smiled. "By the way, have you met the new Professor from Central America yet?"

"I met her briefly when she arrived and again after dinner. I had dessert and tea with her and Albus."

"What is she like?" Remus asked curiously.

"I think she will set Hogwarts upside down," Minerva replied, her expression unreadable. "Have a nice time watching the sunset from the tower," she remarked moving off through the massive doors.

"Remus, how did she know where we were going?"

"I have no idea," he grinned sheepishly. "Maybe she just guessed."

"You know, sometimes I think there is more to Minerva McGonagall than we all give her credit for."

"Princess, you may just be right," Remus nodded. Taking her hand, he led her the rest of the way up the massive stone stairs in the direction of the tower.

Harry and Remus watched the sun set arm in arm. She enjoyed his company and cared deeply for him, but they both knew they weren't in love with one another. Each was content with the relationship the way it was for the time being, and Harry knew that Remus had been serious about her marriage suggestion earlier in the day. She knew too, that if it did ever come to pass they would be happy together, even if they weren't passionately in love.

The first stars had just started to peek out, when she heard Sirius motorcycle in the distance. A few minutes later, he and Circe came into sight, and he landed the bike at the front doors. Harry watched at they hugged one another before Circe entered the building. Sirius then brought his motorcycle down to one of the outbuildings where it was stored along with the one he had given Hagrid the night her parents had died.

"Remember what I told you, Harry," Remus whispered. "You may just be jumping to conclusions about the two of them," he reminded her gently, giving her a quick squeeze. "I know he cares about what happens to you. We all do."

"Yeah, I know," she replied, but her heart was heavy as her earlier happy mood began to dissipate into one of yearning and disappointment.

"Come on, I'll walk you to your room. It's been a long day for both of us," Remus remarked opening the tower door. "Lumos," he said holding his wand up to light their way down the winding stairs.

"I know what you mean. I think I will finish my lesson plans, then take a hot bath and get a good night's sleep. Things may look different in the morning."

"Now that's the smartest thing you've said all day," he praised, kissing her gently.

"You know, I could really get to love Captain Romulus," Harry joked as they walked down the tower stairs.

"What about Remus Lupin?"

"I already care about what happens to him. He is such a cute little sheepskin for his other half," she drawled, watching him furtively from the corner of her eye.

Remus looked at her, hazel eyes reflected in the light of his wand. Grinning wickedly, he threw back his head and howled, the sound echoing wildly off the walls.

"Remus, someone will hear you!" Harry whispered, her mood lightening.

"Then we'll just look at them and pretend we have no idea what they're talking about," he responded playfully, pushing open the lower door and stepping into the hallway.

"Moony," Sirius grinned coming up the hall towards them, "did I just hear you howl?"

"Me, howl? Never," Remus replied feigning innocence. "I was just enjoying the sunset with Harry."

"You should have seen it from the air. It took my breath away," Sirius agreed. "Would you like to watch it with me tomorrow, Honey?"

"The way my luck has been running it will probably rain," Harry remarked pushing past Sirius. 'Harry you stupid git,' she thought, 'what are you doing? You know you want to go with him.'

"Honey is something wrong?"

"Ask Remus, at least he isn't blind to a person's feelings," she answered irritably, annoyed by his ignorance. Reaching her room, she uttered her password and slammed the door behind her.

"Remus, did I do something?" Sirius asked jaw dropping in amazement at Harry's attitude.

"You sure did, Padfoot. Come on in to our room and I'll explain it," Remus shook his head.

Sirius was usually pretty understanding when it came to women, but it had never occurred to him that Harry would be jealous, and he shook his head with concern. This was going to complicate things with Circe, but he knew that what ever happened it would be for the best. It would also give Harry time to sort out her true feelings over the three men. If she realized she loved Moony or Severus, at least he knew the decision would come from her and he wanted her to be happy. His features were grim as he listened to Moony's account of Harry's feelings, but knew he had made a commitment to Circe and planned on following it through....

Harry waited for about an hour for the knock on her door, busying herself with finishing the lesson plan while she waited. It never came, and glancing at her watch, she decided to take a hot bath and go to bed. Running the water in the tub, she felt the tears start to sting her eyes again.

"You fool, he wanted to spend time with you and you slammed the door in his face!" she berated herself aloud. "What does he see in her that he doesn't see in me? Padfoot, how could you just ignore me without an explanation? I can't believe you were just using me. The way you kissed me..." she sobbed, letting the hot water soothe her tired limbs. "Come back to me Padfoot...please..."

Drying off, she wiped her eyes, and climbed into bed. Snuffles sensed her distress and came over to sit by her bedside. Harry automatically began to scratch her pet's ears, but began to cry again, reminded of all the nights she had scratched Padfoot's in the same manner. She felt lost and alone as she listened to the sounds of the crickets wafting in through the open window...

Harry knew she was dreaming, but at first was unconcerned. She hadn't had the need to practice her Occlumency at bedtime since Voldemort's death. Even after the meeting of the Order of the Phoenix, she didn't bother since there was no indication that Voldemort could actually pull off the old magic necessary to return from the dead. Therefore, she let the dream take her where it wanted to go. At first, it was pleasant. She was walking under the night sky amid a copse of trees, moving towards a small clearing. There seemed to be a light coming from within the clearing and she was curious as to what was going on. There was no moon, but she seemed to know her way through the woods. She could hear popping noises and realized that people were disapparating where the light was coming from, and a feeling of apprehension overcame her mixed with excitement. She felt drawn to move closer, and knew she needed to see what was happening. She was also becoming aware that this was no ordinary dream. She was actually there, but didn't know how. Harry had heard of astral travel, but had always dismissed it. She smiled in amusement despite her anxiety, as she made a mental note to discuss it with Albus in the morning.

Reaching the edge of the trees, she could see about six figures standing in a semicircle. They were dressed in the robes of the Deatheaters! Another group of Deatheaters was entering the clearing, levitating a large litter between them. Harry was reminded of a funeral and her stomach was tied in knots. As the group moved nearer, she saw that they were indeed carrying a body. She stood, hidden by the trees, wondering idly if she moved if they would become aware of her presence. Deciding it was too risky she skirted the ring of trees to position herself where she could see better. As she did so, she saw that sitting on top of the corpse, and it was a corpse, was Nagini; Lord Voldemort's pet snake!

Harry's heart was beating so hard she could feel it pounding against her chest. 'This can't be happening,' she argued with herself, 'I am just having a bad dream because I'm upset about Sirius and Circe.'

As she watched, the Deatheaters set the litter down in the center of the clearing, and they all completed the circle around it. Harry knew she had to get a better look at the body, praying that the dead person was just another one of their ranks, and she was observing some kind of burial rites. Crouching low, she shimmied over to a small outcropping of rocks, and climbed on top of them, laying flat against the stones since she still wasn't sure if they were aware of her presence. 'Even if I am dreaming I don't want to get caught,' she laughed nervously to herself. She now had a clear view of the scene, and what she saw made her hair stand on end. The litter had been placed on two sawhorses with a torch on either side. Nagini was curled up with her head raised as if to strike and her forked tongue flickered in the torchlight. However, what made Harry's stomach churn was the man she was sitting on. His hands were folded across his chest in repose, but his eyes were wide open, and his face was contorted with his mouth open in a silent scream. Harry had seen that face not three months earlier. It was the face of Lord Voldemort, frozen in terror as he had realized he was dying!

'Oh Merlin, please let me wake up...I know this is not possible,' but even as this thought passed through her mind she could hear Moody's gravelly voice telling them that Voldemort's body had been stolen, along with that of Lucius Malfoy. Scanning the clearing again, she realized that Malfoy's body was not anywhere to be seen, but she was sure it had to be nearby. As she continued to watch, she realized that all the Deatheaters save one had fallen to their knees, as if in prayer. The sole Deatheater who remained standing addressed the others.

"Tonight our Master will be returned to us thanks to our comrade Justin Blackdrake," the man in the center announced pointing in the direction of a stout man on the far side of the circle. "It was Justin who translated the spell from the ancient parchment he found in South America. The spell only Lord Voldemort can do. Nevertheless, our Master was a smart man. He knew Nagini could say the words for us if we told them to her. He hid these words in his father's mansion, and only Lucius Malfoy and I knew where to find them. He put a spell on the hiding place so that it could only be opened in the event of his death. Tonight we will perform the spell and restore our Master to his former glory. He will be invincible, for he will become immortal as only another Parsel mouth will be able to reverse the spell!"

"What about Harry Potter?" One of the Deatheaters called out. "She too is a Parsel mouth. Did she not bring our Master down twice already?"

"Harry Potter will be dealt with by our Master. He has a special plan for her," the man in the middle laughed coldly, and Harry shivered despite the warm night.

"Tonight Nagini will complete Lord Voldemort's quest for immortality, and then our Master will return Lucius to us. Unfortunately, our other brothers and sisters who were lost have had their bodies destroyed, but we shall overcome. New members are being recruited daily, and Lord Voldemort will be pleased. Tonight begins our time of revenge and retribution!"

The circle of Deatheaters cheered and waved their wands in the air, as the leader looked on. Harry recognized him as the one who had escaped the evening they had been attacked at the Burrow. Raising his arms he motioned for quiet, and the group immediately fell silent. Nothing stirred, and a wind had sprung up, causing the clouds to race across the dark sky overhead.

"Let us begin the ceremony!" he intoned, turning to face Nagini and with a wave of his wand, a parchment appeared in the air. "We will ask the ancient Serpent Gods of the night to deliver our Master unto our hands." He then kneeled down and began to read, as the others followed. Nagini repeated after them...

"Hail to thee Lord Voldemort

May you rise up and stand.

May you return

May your astral soul return

May your psyche return

May your life force return

May you return from the grave of your mother

May you return with the blessings of the dark serpents

Set, Am-Mut, Basilisk, Hydra, Leviathan, Kulkulcan, Naga, and Youalcoatl

May you come into the Region of Unification

Where you will be blessed with health

This is Lord Voldemort

Behold, you come with life

May your limbs, and your bones,

Your organs and your head

Come away from the jaws of the Abyss

May you stray from the path of chaos

This is Lord Voldemort

Rise up and be whole!"

The wind had continued to rise, and was now blowing hard as the sky grew darker. A peal of thunder resounded and shook the earth as a flash of lightening struck the ground in front of the litter where Voldemort's body rested. The scar on Harry's forehead sprang to life and felt as if it were on fire. She was ice cold and shaking with terror, but was unable to tear her eyes away from the scene in front of her. Suddenly all was deathly silent. No one moved and nothing stirred. All eyes were on the body of the Dark Lord as he slowly sat up and looked about. Scanning the circle of his followers, he smiled, and then he seemed to look beyond them, red eyes coming to rest where Harry was still pressed up against the rock.

"Harry Potter," he rasped. "How nice of you to come to my rebirthing party. I will be seeing to you in due time, as well as that traitor, Severus," he laughed manically, "and this time I will not be stopped, for I am planning quite a little surprise for you."

Harry could feel herself pulling away, and moving back through the trees the way she had come. Her head was pounding, and the sound of Lord Voldemort's laughter was ringing in her ears as she found herself sitting bolt upright in bed, screaming. Snuffles was howling with fright, and Harry's scar had burst open, a thin trickle of blood running down into her eyes. Harry knew that what she had just seen was not a dream. Lord Voldemort had returned...very much alive!

19