SlugClub

The Beginning

The cotton candy clouds had given way to rain-heavy grey skies, matching the mood of the medi-witches and healers searching the battlefield for survivors. Many were still alive, although they were in excruciating pain from the various hexes and curses that they had endured. Madam Pomfrey had come down from Hogwarts to assist the overwhelmed staff from St. Mungo’s. She was close at hand as it was; the battle had occurred out towards the outskirts of Hogsmead. At least Minerva’s wards had held, protecting Hogwarts and the children inside. But, some of those children had not wanted to be safe within those ancient walls. The members of the DA had faithfully followed Harry out into battle and had done their best against Voldemort’s Death Eaters, ignoring the pleas to keep out of the fight. In addition to following Harry, the DA also rallied behind Severus Snape, who had, in fact, always been loyal to the Order. Once Voldemort had discovered Snape’s duplicity, and the fact that he had been Dumbledore’s spy over the last 20 years, declared war and the final battle had begun.
Harry, Ron, Hermione and Maggie, with Snape’s help, had located and destroyed the remaining horcruxes prior to Voldemort’s discovery of Snape’s true loyalty. Voldemort hadn’t realized that he was once again mortal until Harry sank Gryffindor’s sword into his chest. With that, a new beginning dawned for wizard kind.
However, the sad task of removing the casualties from the field still remained.
Ginny Weasley was safe; Neville had found her, and lifted her up of the bloody ground to take her to the make-shift tent hospital. Her wounds weren’t fatal – a broken leg, and a deep, bloody gash across her right forearm. The wounds that Neville worried about weren’t physical, but mental and emotional in nature. These would not be mended as easily or quickly. As she cried into his shoulder, he tried to console her as best he could, but he knew this would take time.
“Shhhh Ginny, I know. It’ll be okay one day, Ginny. We can face this together.”
Neville looked worse than he was. Blood was crusted down his face, half blinding him. The cut on his forehead and a wicked burn on his chest were the only physical remainders of the battle for him. He lost Luna though, and that hurt much worse than any curse or hex ever would. She had jumped in front of Bellatrix’s Unforgivable that had been meant for Neville; the killing curse. He screamed, and then repaid Bellatrix; for his father, mother, and for Luna.
He knew that Harry was dead; he saw it happen. Ron was gone as well as so many others, but at least Maggie had made it – Neville had also seen Snape take her away. Knowing how Ginny had felt about Harry and how much she loved her brother, only made Neville more determined to protect Ginny. She had always held a special place in his heart.
“Neville?” Ginny looked up through her pain, and struggled to focus on his face.
He stopped and looked down at the girl in his arms. “Yeah Ginny?”
“Everything’s changed for good now, hasn’t it? The world is reborn.”
“I think so Ginny. Yeah, I think so.” He studied her tear-stained, dirty, bloody face. “It’ll be hard at first, I know. But we’re going to make it. You know that they wouldn’t have wanted us to live in grief, or mourn forever. I think that we should thank them, celebrate their lives, and try to be happy in our new beginning.”
Ginny nodded, eyes shining new tears, “Yes, I think you’re right. You know, it’s almost as if I can feel them all around me. Trying to cheer me up.”
“Maybe it’s their magic lingering on the battlefield, like parts of their souls.” Neville sighed, and turned his head up to look at the sky. “They’ll always be with us, Gin. Come on, I’m taking you to get fixed up.”

Two hours later, Ginny was looking across the tent to a cot in the corner. The curtains were mostly closed around it, but not all the way. Maggie was sleeping there, after a healer had given her a dreamless sleep draught. What interested Ginny was the man who was sitting with her best friend, holding her hand, and looking down at her with love in his eyes.
It was Severus Snape.
He had stayed with her; he could have just dropped her off in the healer’s care, but he had stayed! Ginny could see that Snape was talking to Maggie, whispering things to her. She was astonished at this sight, but somehow, it didn’t feel wrong. Before the battle, Harry had told her that the one power he had over Voldemort was the power of love – of giving love, and being able to accept love. Letting go of hate.
Was it that simple?
Ginny felt warm inside, like how she felt when Harry was near. She did feel him, all around her. And then she knew that it was okay. Everything. It was simple! The boy she loved gave himself for love – as his mother and father had done for him. Snape, the man whom had never known love, was giving love; perhaps this is what it all meant. Rid the world of evil, to allow the experience of love to be had by all? Seemed a little much; Ginny was now convinced, however. This was the perfect example! Snape, guard down and openly showing concern and love for Maggie.
Gods, Goddesses, Destiny and the Fates!
Shaking her head, Ginny was happy. Yes, she had lost much, as so many others had today. But Harry had made sure that the rest of her life, and everyone else’s, would be happy. Oh, how she loved him! It was odd how she wasn’t crying anymore, but Neville’s words rang true in her thoughts. Harry and Ron would always be with her, she would always feel them nearby, and she would always remember them. They gave everyone a gift this day.
Looking over to the cot beside her, she smiled at Neville, who had been watching Snape with her.
“What do you think, Neville?”
He smiled back at her, and reached for her hand. “I think that after all he’s been through, he deserves some happiness. He risked everything.”
She nodded. “You told me that you saw them by Harry…that he talked to Harry.”
“I think he did.”
Looking back over at Snape and Maggie, Ginny wondered aloud, “I wonder what he said to him?”
Still holding Ginny’s hand, he gave it a squeeze. “I’m not sure, Gin. But if you ask me, he looks like he’s twenty years younger, no lie!”
Ginny broke into a sad smile, turning back to Neville. He was right; Snape looked as if the weight of the world had been lifted from his shoulders. Yes, she had lost her love, and her brother. But hope, that was a thing that was not lost.
“I suppose that everyone deserves their time of happiness. And you’re right Neville; he deserves it most of all.”

He had always found her beautiful, in everyway. Her mind, her body. The way she laughed, how she smiled, how she looked when she was concentrating…
“I have been taught a valuable lesson today, Maggie,” he whispered as he stroked her hand that was clasped in his, “I have learned that friendship, acceptance, happiness, and love – yes – love, are all worth living and dying for. Harry taught me that. I want you to know, that I will be by your side, and if you don’t want me there, I will be with you from afar.”
Maggie slept on, and Severus really didn’t know if she could hear him. He needed to talk. He wanted to talk.
“I would understand if you wanted me to stay away, I would accept that. But please know Maggie that I want to help you in any way that I can. You’ve no one left; I know about the death of your parents. One day, you will have happiness again, I swear it. You will go on, and live your life, and accomplish everything you set out to do. And I will be proud of you – yes, proud! I have always been proud of you, but I was never able to speak of it. I believe that I owe Harry my life, Maggie. And now, I owe it to you.”
Severus didn’t care if Ginny and Neville were watching him; he had known they were for awhile. In fact, he didn’t care who saw him whispering to Maggie. He didn’t have to hide anymore.
Sighing, he brushed an errant strand of her hair back from her peaceful face. His one hand still holding hers, he settled back in his chair. Everything was changed, now. He was open to so many new options; it was like a second chance! Severus smiled, and he went to stand up to stretch.
Her hand tightened on his, and he eyes fluttered slowly open. “Sev…” she whispered.
All of his attention was now on her. He came closer, to the edge of her bed, and sat down. “Yes, Maggie?”
“Don’t leave me…don’t you ever leave me.”
Gazing down into her eyes he fell into her depths, and promised her, “I will never leave you Maggie. Nothing could ever take me away from you. ”
She sighed as she reached up and touched his cheek. He closed his eyes at her touch, and knew that everything he had never dreamt possible, happiness, love, peace – was now completely within his reach.
By Orinda Duyster

TRIVIA
HARRY POTTER status:
TITLE: Harry Potter and bla-bla-bla
THICKNESS: Less than the 5th book
RELEASE DATE: 2007 (eeek!!!)
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE:
HARRY is not an ANIMAGUS or a METAMORPHMAGUS!!
CROOKSHANK and MRS. NORRIS are not ANIMAGUS!
Aunt PETUNIA ain't a SQUIB!
LUNA and NEVILLE will not be 'hooked up'! (why?!)
The name TOM MARVOLO RIDDLE when it is rearranged becomes I AM LORD VOLDEMORT. (Ain't that cute?)
The SORTING HAT is not a HORCRUXE!
HERMIONE was supposed to be in the RAVENCLAW house.
QUIDDITCH game was a result of Jo's fight with his boyfriend in a hotel room.
There will be no QUIDDITCH in the 7th book. (A game? At a time like this?!)
LUPIN's name actually means wolf ('canis lupus' is a scientific name for wolf, so basically, 'lupin' means wolf)
Emma is actually a natural blonde.
Rowan Atkinson (Bean) and John Malkovich (Humma Kavula) almost got Voldemort's part.
J.K will not write about LILY and JAMES POTTER after she finished the last book.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ‘BOUT HARRY AND HIS BESTFRENS:
HARRY POTTER
Full name is Harold James Potter
Born on 31st July 1980
Black hair
Green eyes
Mixed blood (James, a pure blood and Lily, a mudblood [whoopsie!])
HERMIONE GRANGER
Full name is Hermione Jane Granger
Born on 19th September 1979
Brown hair
Brown eyes
Mudblood (sorry, Hermione)- both parents are muggle who works as dentists
RON WEASLEY
Full name is Ronald Weasley
Born on 1st March 1980
Red hair
Blue eyes
Pure blood (Arthur and Molly are both pure blood)
BY MARS STARFIRE BLACK

When Memories Surface

“Would you two stop it please!” Hermione rounded on her two closest friends.
Ron stepped back, a little frightened. “But ‘Mione… he’s such a-“
“What? Go on, I know you’re dying to be petty and nasty towards him as usual.”
“Petty and- Hermione he’s petty and nasty, to all of us! I mean, he’s even made you cry so why are you-“
Hermione slumped into a nearby chair. Harry gave Ron a ‘just leave it’ look.
“I know Ron… I… just don’t like it when people are cruel. Just because he is doesn’t mean we have to be as well.” Hermione explained in a calmer voice.
Ron gave Harry a ‘what the hell?’ look which Harry returned with a shrug.
“We’ll try to be nicer Hermione…at least around you…”
“Thank you Harry. I appreciate it.” She stood up and quickly glared in Ron’s direction. Harry was always the bigger man when it came to patching up fights. Ron, on the other hand, was so stubborn sometimes that it irritated Hermione to no end.
When she had left the Common Room, Ron turned his attention to Harry. “She’s utterly off her rocker.”
“Not really, she’s always hated us calling him names. Anyone for that matter…”
“Yeah, but this was different. Something’s wrong with her.”
“Perhaps.”
………..
I don’t know what has gotten into me lately. Things seem so different now. I shouldn’t have snapped at Ron like that but I felt like it. Professor Snape is cruel and unfair but for some reason I wish people would stop being so heartless behind his back. I feel… protective towards him. God knows why. What’s changed lately? He’s still the same snarky, sarcastic, cold hearted professor he’s always been. So then all this must just be me. Why do I care all of a sudden? Well, not suddenly, I’ve always cared about people and animals and anything in between. But all of a sudden I have this overwhelming feeling of… I’m not sure… it can’t possibly be affection… Oh God. I’m going to bed.
……………
/Cool time warp effect/
“I want Mummy…”
“She’s not here right now.”
“Daddy?”
“No. Not yet. Get some sleep.”
This is utterly weird. Every time I have Potions, I get these weird emotional pangs. But what’s even more weird are these flashes I get. These… visions. But they don’t make sense. I’m so confused.
“Make sure you refrain from adding the lacewing until the very end. Understood?” Professor Snape’s eyes swept over the classroom making sure everyone was paying attention. “Brown…” He growled causing Lavender to quickly look from Seamus to himself. “That’s better.”
“Hermione? What’s wrong? Shh… it’s okay. It’s just a dream.”
She clung to his shirt and sniffed loudly.
“I-it was scary…”
“I know. It’s okay. Shh…shh…” His stroking of her hair had a soothing effect. After a few moments she stopped sniffling and quietly rested catching her breath. “That’s better…”
Hermione’s eyes opened wide and she gasped. Snape’s head snapped in the direction of her noise. “Granger?”
“I… sorry.”
He frowned but went back to roaming the classroom.
…………
Okay, this is really weird. What on Earth is going on? It must be me… when I was little, but what am I doing? That can not possibly be Snape in those visions… can it? And why are they suddenly coming to me now, in my 6th year? Maybe I’m just over stressed. Weird things happen to people before exams, don’t they?
Snape rubbed his temples, trying unsuccessfully to block out the bobbing hand to the left of him. “Miss Granger, what is it?”
“The potion is best taken at night because of it’s delayed action properties.”
“Yes, yes. Correct as usual. The major advantage of the ‘bedtime’ dose stems from Reginald’s lentamente provisions which ultimately...”
“Hurry up Hermione. Bedtime was five minutes ago.”
Hermione quickly scampered into her room and climbed up on the bed. “May I please have a story?”
“Aren’t you tired yet?”
She shook her head. “Plee-ase, Sevvie?”
“Very well.”
“Oh. My. God.” Hermione instantly clapped a hand to her mouth.
“What on Earth, Granger?”
Harry and Ron stared at her as if she were insane. Perhaps she really was.
“I’m sorry...sir...I just...” Hermione felt very shaken.
“Are you ill Granger?”
“I- I must be.”
“Then hurry to the infirmary before I lose my patience.” Snape spat, already extremely annoyed.
All Hermione could do was nod her head and rush out of the classroom.
“’Mione, are you alright?” Ron asked that afternoon in the Common Room. “’Mione?”
“What?”
“I asked if you were alright.”
“Oh yes... I’m fine. Thank you.”
“You don’t seem fine, Hermione. What’s going on?” Harry asked as he sat down on an adjacent chair.
“It’s all that studying. I keep telling you you’re trying too-”
“It’s not that, Ron.”
“Then what is it?”
“I’m not sure... I think memories are...” Hermione’s attention again strayed.
Ron and Harry exchanged confused looks.
“Did you see Pomfry today?” Harry asked.
“Yes but... I think I just need to think. She said it would all become clear if given time.”
“I swear you’re speaking in riddles ‘Mione. ‘Mione? Oh Merlin, I give up.”
Later that night, Hermione tossed and turned in her bed.
“Clarissa will take care of you for a while, okay Hermione?”
Hermione didn’t feel like it was okay. She knew something was wrong. Sevvie had never left her with anyone else before.
“You two will have lots of fun. Clarissa knows some great games that you’ll love. Hmm?”
Hermione glanced from the familiar man holding her to the strange woman smiling encouragingly. She didn’t like the idea but knew she would have to go along with it anyway. “You’ll be back?” She quietly asked.
“As soon as I can. You won’t even know I’m gone.”
“Promise Sevvie?”
“Promise.” He wiped a tear from her cheek and kissed her forehead.
Hermione’s eyes snapped open and she looked wildly around the room. That’s it. I’m getting answers first thing tomorrow morning.
……../…………/
“Come in.”
Hermione entered slowly, trying to suppress the butterflies that were flying rampant in her stomach.
“Miss Granger, I do hope you’ve managed to fix yourself.”
“Actually... that’s why I’m here now.”
“Oh yes?” Snape raised an eyebrow and gestured for Hermione to sit opposite his desk. “I presume you need a potion.”
“No...” Hermione wasn’t quite sure how she should go about this.
Snape frowned. “If you’re going to waste my time-”
“No. I’m sorry. What I need are... explanations.” She plunged on before she could lose her nerve. “I keep having these... flashbacks, scenes from when I was little, but I’m not sure if they’re real.”
“How does this concern me?”
“The visions include you.” Hermione was so quiet, Snape almost didn’t hear her words.
“Indeed...”
“I- I think they take place just after my parents were...” Hermione trailed off, unable to say the word. “I don’t know why but... you were looking after me. Am I just hallucinating? Ron says I’m too stressed but-” Snape had stood up and walked behind his chair, his back was to Hermione. “Sir?”
“You are not hallucinating, Miss Granger. These visions are indeed memories.” He turned back around and rested his hands on the back of the chair. Snape allowed Hermione a moment to accept this information.
“Why-” She didn’t know how to proceed. Neither did Snape but he tried his best.
“Allow me to explain... The night your parents -died-... I was on my way, with some Aurors, to warn your family of the pending arrival of Death Eaters. The Aurors would have captured those Death Eaters before any harm could befall you or your family. Most regrettably, we were too late. Not late enough to apprehend them but... nevertheless...late. I... found you, made sure you were alright but there was no place for you to go. Dumbledore requested that I take care of you until suitable arrangements could be made. You resided with me... a little over a month, I believe, before Dumbledore’s niece, Clarissa, could take you in. I can not say why these memories have come back to you now in such a way, only that they were...are a part of your childhood.” Snape remained standing when he finished his explanation. Again, he gave Hermione some time with her thoughts.
“I see...” Hermione closed her eyes. Memories of that time came rushing back in a wave of images and sounds. It was a little overwhelming.
“Miss Granger, are you alright?”
“I- I’m fine.” She gave a small chuckle at a memory, opened her eyes, and blinked a few times. “I’m just remembering...”
A moment more to herself, then Hermione slowly looked up at Snape, with a small, embarrassed smile upon her lips. It was so strange to see her professor in such a new, and contrasting, light. “I don’t know what to say.” She took a long look trying to connect the man in front of her to the man in her memories.
“Then perhaps-”
“Thank you.” Hermione cut him off. “It seems so inadequate but...”
“It is enough...to know you’re doing...well.” Snape struggled to get the right words out.
Hermione smiled warmly, still feeling very awkward. She stood up and approached Snape. “I mean it... thank you...” And then, before she had really thought about it, she wrapped her arms around her professor in a clumsy but sincere hug.
Snape was surprised for a moment, but then, feeling like he had those years ago when she would cling tightly to him and cry... or giggle, he held her to him. “My pleasure...Hermione...” Merlin this feels strange...and yet so familiar.
Hermione felt, not like giggling at the absurdity of their current situation, but like crying. A wave of sadness threatened to envelope her for all those lost years. For the time when she had wanted to cry when he left and for now, that only when she had grown up and was 16, could she truly know Severus Snape.
After a few minutes of silent reminiscing, the two let go of each other.
“You won’t tell-”
“No. I don’t think I could if I wanted too. It’s all rather... personal, isn’t it?” Hermione gave a small smile. “Well, thank you for clearing all that up. I hope I won’t interrupt your class again.” She smiled once more and headed towards the door.
“Miss Granger?”
“Yes?”
“I am truly sorry I did not arrive earlier that night.” As Hermione had said, it seemed so inadequate.
Hermione just nodded and opened the door.
“See you later... Sevvie.”
With a snap the door closed.By orinda Duyster

HARRY POTTER RECENT UPDATES
I'm sure you've heard that J.K Rowling's Harry Potter and bla-bla-bla (if anyone knows, please do inform me) is still in progress. Everyone is so excited (I know I do) cos this is the last installment of Jo's 'BOOK of the CENTURY'. Well, no one sure of how is it gonna end, but let me tell you one thing; my frens and I really think that Harry AND/OR Voldemort's gonna die, though we really wish Harry won't. According to Jo, right now, she already 'killed' an important character. Here's my prediction:
1. Hermione-she might get herself killed for being a know-it-all (remember the 2nd year, where she almost got killed for finding out bout the serpent?)
2. Viktor Krum-he is said to make a comeback (he might sacrifice himself to save someone; might be Hermione)
3. Blaise Zabini-a Slytherin character that's making his comeback in the 7th book (maybe, the only reason he appeared again is because he's gonna get himself killed)
Ok, I really wish I know so that I won't need to predict a character's death and suspense myself.
Next is about the mirror that Sirius gave to Harry in the 5th book. Rumors has it that it's gonna be useful in the 7th book. So, maybe Sirius might appear (yay!)! I mean it is used to see someone who is apart from you, so maybe, Sirius might have bring it along with him. Also, it might be that Sirius gave it to an important character and he/she used it to contact Harry. Well, those are MY predictions.

Now, it's time to talk about Snape and Draco. I mean, whose side are they on? The Dark Lord or the Order of Phoenix? However, rumors has it that Draco and Harry might help each other to defeat Voldemort (Vol-d-Mole). Well, the only reason Draco's helping Voldemort is because Voldemort threatened him with his family, so maybe, deep down inside, he's really nice... maybe...(ain't that cute; he's trying to save his 'ohana'-family). As for Snape, he might also be nice. I meant when Dumbledore begged for his life, he might actually not begged for his life but for Snape to go on with the plan. Dumbledore might realized that his death (or is it just a plan to trick Voldemort?) is needed in order for Harry to defeat Voldemort. Well, it gives him more reason to kill Voldemort. However, I do hope Snape and Draco is on the good side and that Sirius AND/OR Dumbledore is still alive.

Next is Aunt Petunia. What makes someone thinks she's a Squib?! I mean she totally hates weird stuff. Ok, let's focus on the important stuff. "REMEMBER MY LAST..." Is it the letter that Dumbledore place in front of their door where he left Harry? NO, I don't think so (that's just MY opinion, ok?). You see, if it's the letter he left with Harry, he would have said "REMEMBER MY LETTER/LAST LETTER...". But, he didn't didn't he? So, it's either he's been in contact with Petunia since he left Harry on their doorstep or he met her and talked to her already or yadayadayada (I'm too tired to think)

Ok, according to this book I read, there's gonna be a flashback on the incident Ginny-almost-get-killed-by-Voldemort-but-Harry-saved-her. Let's see why:
1. Harry might be threatened by Voldemort that he will kill Ginny if Harry didn't surrender or something like that...
2. Maybe, Harry might fight the serpent for the second time. (You can do it, Harry!)
3. I don't know but I really do care...

We get to know Harry's mom, Lily, a lil' bit more (ok, a lot). According to Jo, Lily is a very important character in the last book. Maybe, it got something to do with her-blood-protecting-Harry-but-now-Voldemort-also-got-Harry's-blood-in-him thing. Who knows.

Last but not least; 'scar'. All the books/websites I read on HP and bla-bla-bla says that the last word in the book is gonna be 'SCAR'. Let's guess:
1. It all happens because of the SCAR.
2. All the things that ever happened to him, it's all because Voldemort marked him, it's all about the SCAR.
3. Who knows world peace could be threatened because of his SCAR. (ok, I wasn't serious 'bout that)
4. Yadayadayada...SCAR. (just for relaxation)
Ok, that's all I got for the time being. Anymore news, you'll be informed. FOR SURE...

Article written by: Mars^_^Starfire(",)Black91

"REMEMBER THAT MAGIC DOES EXIST-IN EVERYONE'S HEART"

Stand By Me
I picked up the skirts of my bridesmaids dress and ran out of the hall where Harry and Ginny’s wedding was being held. The tears streamed down my face as I burst through the front doors and out into the beautiful spring night. It was a pitch black sky with not a cloud to be seen, only the full moon shining down bathing everything in a pale light and bright stars twinkling above the tree tops. I sat down on the bench under a great oak tree, a warm breeze whistling its branches. I wondered how long it would take before he would follow me out to justify his stupidity. How could he still go back to those Death Eaters? How could he now, when he has everything to live for? Even if it is for spying and capturing those last few, it was still dangerous. I thought the rapport we had developed meant more to him than that. I thought the attraction we undeniably held for one another would keep him here, keep him here with me. I am afraid for his life because he refuses to believe that he is worthy of love and friendship. I have tried everything to get him to change his mind, make him believe he is safe and wanted.
When the night has come
And the land is dark
And the moon is the only
Light we’ll see
No I won’t
Be afraid
No I won’t be afraid
Just as long
As you stand
Stand by me
I heard the hall doors open into the night once more; I turned to see Severus standing on the door step looking over to me. His black hair and robes waving about in the warm breeze, I turned back in my seat opting to pretend I hadn’t seen him. I was not in the mood for his excuses, not after our row at the reception. I had a huge letter of apology to write to Harry and Ginny tomorrow. He kept refusing to acknowledge my concern for his safety…
We waltzed across the floor in time to the music; we were having a wonderful time. That is until Albus danced by with Minerva and said,
“Good luck tomorrow, my boy! You will be successful, of that I have not doubt.” And with that he swept with Minerva across the floor with a twinkle in his eye.
“Tomorrow?” I hissed, my voice dangerously low, “Were you going to tell me this anytime soon, Severus?” he gave me a withering look,
“I see no reason why you should have been informed, Eileen.” He returned caustically, it was evident that he never intended me to find out and now wanted to avoid a public confrontation. If that is what he didn’t want, that is what he is going to get.
“Last time I was checked, I was your friend!” I raised my voice slightly attracting the attention of most on the floor as I stepped away from him.
“Last time I check I told you I have no need for friends those who will only leave me in the end and you will too inevitably.” He said, his eyes showing the emotion he refused to show in his voice.
“Severus!” I hollered, completely forgetting the people in the room, “What will it take to show you that I care for you and for your safety! You keep pushing me away and it’s not helping either of us. I worry about you Severus!” tears had already begun streaming down my face, my voice was choked with sobs.
“And pray tell, Eileen, why do you care about my safety? What does it matter to you?” he shouted back, anger and resentment resonating through his words but his eyes betrayed him. In the deep black pools of his eyes, his apprehension for my reply was evident.
“"I care because I love you, Severus! I love you!” I shrieked before gathering my skirts and running out of the hall leaving a stunned Severus behind who had his face buried in his hands…
I told him I loved him, I mused as I heard his footsteps edge closer across the grounds, I meant it, I really did. I cannot imagine a day in my life where I didn’t see him, and now I probably have ruined every chance at that happening.
“Eileen.” His deep voice sending chills down my spine, I could sense remorse in his words.
“Severus.” I replied stiffly not turning around, I was not going to make the first move.
“Eileen, look at me.”
“I don’t why I should; I am not your friend.” I returned sarcastically. I heard him groan softly. He came around and sat on the bench next to me.
“No, Eileen you aren’t.” he stated staring deep into my eyes. I moved back slightly on the seat after his announcement, my eyes showing the hurt and shock I felt.
“What?”
“You are much more than a friend to me, much, much more.” He continued, “I am sorry about my actions earlier, as I have told you before I am unaccustomed to having people care for my well-being.” He grasped my hand entwining our fingers.
I was even more shocked now, but for an entirely different reason,
“Does this mean…?” I began before I was cut off by the soft touch of his lips against mine. Much too soon, we broke apart leaning our foreheads against each others. I could feel his warm breath tickling my cheek as he whispered,
“Eileen, would you care to dance?” he stood up, waving his wand at the bench were an old-fashioned record player appeared. Gentle music began filtering out of the old player as Severus took my hand and led me to an open space, bathed by the light of the silvery moon up above. I gasped as I recognised the song.
“Severus! This is my favourite song! How did you know?” I asked earnestly, my fingers brushing his cheeks lightly. John Lennon’s Stand by Me was an old favourite of my father’s which he would play to me every night when I was younger; it soon became a song I associated with love and protection.
“The walls have ears as well as eyes, Eileen.” He smiled at the delight swimming in my eyes. I never knew he cared this much, I mused as he led me into the dance. The words of the song ringing true for Severus I thought, when he had people who stood by him through all manner of ordeals, he opened up allowed his true feelings to surface.
His arms snaked around my waist as he pulled me closer, I hugged my self closer to his chest allowing the words of the song wash over me.
If the sky
That we look upon
Should tumble and fall
And the mountains should crumble to the sea
I won’t cry, I won’t cry
No I won’t shed a tear
Just as long
As you stand
Stand By Me
When the song came to an end, we slowly stepped apart. The warm winds that had picked up seemingly, washed away Severus’ fears and inhibitions, he put a finger under my chin tilting my head up to meet his eyes. Within them I could tell what he was about to say to me, the emotion swirling in his eyes told me more than the hushed words that left his mouth a moment later,
“I love you Eileen.” I could feel tears brimming in my eyes and spilling over my cheeks. Severus reached up and brushed them away,
“What is it, Eileen? Why are you crying?” I stared at him for a moment before flinging my arms around his neck,
“I love you too Severus, I love you too.” I cried, my voice somewhat muffled by his cloak but he understood me all the same. He broke apart abruptly when we heard a stifled sob come from the entrance to the hall. We turned to face the sound when we realised that half the reception party were there listening to us with Minerva sobbing,
“Oh it’s beautiful!” into Albus’ shoulder.
Serverus’ cheeks flushed a crimson as he realised everyone had heard him pronounce his love for me.
“Do you mind, Albus?” Severus enquired though clenched teeth. Albus waved a hand breezily though the air,
“Oh no not at all, do carry on, we’ll just stand here and watch two absurdly stubborn people realise their feelings for each other.” He glared briefly at Albus before turning back to me,
Don’t you have anything to say, Eileen?” he asked, his eyes glittering with desire as he took in my flushed appearance.
“Only that everyone in the world can watch for all I care but it won’t change anything.” I announced circling my arms around his neck once more, bringing our lips inches apart.
“Won’t change what?” he prompted, his breath mingling with my own, I breathed in before replying, his scent always comforting me when I most needed it. I looked into his black orbs, which were watching me apprehensively,
“That I will always stand by you Severus.” He sighed appreciatively as he quickly closed the gap between our lips with a passionate kiss, leaving me breathless. The audience that had accumulated slowly trickled back inside in order to give us privacy. Albus remained a moment before following Minerva inside, as he watched us embrace under the moonlight he whispered,
“Stand by her Severus and you will never be afraid of the dark.” Severus looked up at Albus from over my shoulder and smiled gratefully before wrapping his arms tighter around me.By Orinda Duyster

The Bat of the Dungeons and the Angel of the Towers
Disclaimer: I absolutely, positively, for surely, do NOT own anything Harry Potter, unless of course you count posters, blankets, and various items of that sort. J.K. Rowling is the brilliant mastermind behind it all. I own nothing.
Diana and Severus are having feelings. What they do with those feelings is up to me. Lol. One Shot.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

Diana walked around the school grounds contemplating on whether or not she should tell him how she felt. Should she tell him or should she keep it a secret, like she had for almost a year now?
She knew she loved him; it was just a matter of him loving her.
She sank down by a tree next to the lake and sighed, no, she would not tell him.
He would just laugh in her face or sneer if she told him, and she didn’t need that sort of humiliation right now.
Suddenly, she heard footsteps behind her, and when they stopped she turned around and was surprised at who it was, for it was the very man she had been thinking about not a moment ago.
Severus Snape was looking right at her, staring deeply into her green eyes.
She couldn’t break away; her eyes lost in those never ending black orbs.
“Severus” she whispered, “I….” she never got to finish her sentence for at that moment Severus had captured her lips with his own.
“I love you” he said, “I finally realized that without you, my life would be forever incomplete.”
“I love you too!” and she kissed him, over and over again.
If anyone at that moment had seen those two they would have thought they had gone mad.
The bat of the dungeons and the angel of the towers, together forever, nothing could have been more perfect.By Orinda Duyster

Snapes eyes

The first time I saw your eyes,

I almost drown in them,

They are so dark that I can see my own reflection in them,

To every student your eyes are colt like stone,

But every time you look at me your eyes soften,

I just notice that when I started my last trimester at Hogwarts,

When I look at you know,

Those eyes have a gleamy glance,

And sometimes you even have a little smile for me,

I don’t know why I deserve that,

But I do like it very much,

Every time the bell goes you look up and tell us what our homework will be,

Before I go out of the classroom I look at you and you look at me,

Today you surprise me,

When I looked at you, you winked at me,

My face was lightning up but when I notice that some classmates were looking at me I turn red like a strawberry,

So fast as I could I went out and went to the ladies room,

When I was sure that I was alone,

I splash water to my face,

“ What the hell are you doing with me”By orinda Duyster

The theater

Maggie McGregor seemed to be sitting on the edge of her chair as she watched the dancers below her. Her heart raced as the male dancer completed another divine lift, as if the female dancer were a feather. She moved forward another inch as he carried his partner across the stage. A marvellous move by the dancers below her sent Maggie falling to the floor in excitement, and people turning around and making noises of disapproval.
One of these people was Severus Snape, who sat quite few seats away from the ‘graceful’ girl. She quickly got back into her seat, her face shaded by a dark red tint. He realized it was his former student, Maggie McGregor. Snape did not return to watching the elegant movements of the New York City Ballet as they danced across their stage, he was instead watching his former student, now a mature young woman, as she attempted to sink as low as possible into her plush chair.
Apparently, this portion of ballet had ended and people were getting up. Snape cast his eyes away from his fellow Hogwarts alumnus. She got up and left, most likely headed to the lobby. Snape followed her in, surreptitiously. She went down to the first floor, Snape stalking behind her. She was, seemingly, alone. Miss Tracy quietly stood in the crowd in front of the bar. He got in the queue behind her, trying to think of a reason to speak to her.
“Miss McGregor, do you plan on interrupting the next portion of Jewels?” He scowled down at her face, which was bright red again and her eyes blazing with rage.
“I’m not your student anymore; I will not be treated like a child again,” she said, her face set into one an expression of determination.
“I am simply wondering if perhaps you could fall over again, at a less vital moment of the ballet.” A look of faux annoyance passed over his face, as the pair reached the head of the queue.
Maggie pondered the menu that was set out for a moment, she decided on a glass of red wine. She stated her order, trying to ignore the presence of the man she had dreamt of the night before. Of course, in her dream he had been wearing significantly less.
The waitress looked her over and than delivered the disheartening news: “Can I see some ID, you don’t look over twenty-one?”
Maggie’s cheeks once again glowed red, but this time more from rage than embarrassment. She was about to start yelling, when a sallow-skinned hand popped out in front of her with American Muggle money.
“But I’m sure you can sell me two red wines?” Snape’s silky tones eased Maggie’s building anger.
The waitress giggled and nodded.
Maggie looked dumbstruck, and Professor Severus Snape smirked.
After receiving his drink, he sank away from the crowds, moving towards the walls, which were adorned by Muggle photographs of dancers, past and present. His mother had always had a soft spot for ballet, hence the reason he was here. No matter where he went, on her birthday, he had always vowed to go to the ballet, which he did. Dumbledore had sent him out on school business to this wretched American city; the man hadn’t stopped giving him tasks even after the war had ended. He took a sip of the strong Muggle wine and turned from the picture. Maggie McGregor stood there studying him. Her brown eyes looked puzzled.
“Why did you buy me a drink?” she questioned, taking a sip of her drink.
“I see the fact that you graduated from Hogwarts nearly three years ago doesn’t stop you from posing trivial questions to me, Miss Tracy,” Snape shot back at her. She had grown a few inches. No, it was just the heels, and perhaps the long line that the body-hugging black dress produced which made her look taller.
“I don’t think wanting to know why someone who barely tolerated being in a room with me three years ago, and the only teacher I never earned any sort of esteem from, bought me a drink is unimportant and silly,” she said in an honest tone.
Snape was taken aback by honest emotion in her voice. He looked her straight in the eye.
“It was more those two dunderheads that you kept company with, than you, Miss Tracy, and by the end of your seventh year, I privately respected you.” He didn’t break eye contact, his dark intense eyes looking into her rich brown ones. He sighed and gave up the old defenses; he was getting tired of playing this game, especially with himself. “I bought you a drink because you looked like you needed it and might have hexed that waitress across the country, if you didn’t get it. Frankly, didn’t think that should be seen by Muggle eyes, do you?”
She relaxed and the tension between them eased.
The noise of the crowd milling around came to rest around them like humid air. They both sipped the strong wine. Maggie hadn’t expected to see Snape here, the night after her heated dreams about him. Maggie hadn’t thought her schoolgirl crush had survived; she had chalked the dream up as a memory of that crush, but now it all came rushing back.
He looked superb in the black Muggle suit and green dress shirt. She hadn’t ever seen him in color since the Quidditch games back at Hogwarts. He also looked quite relaxed and as if he had been sleeping well. His hair was slightly shorter and wasn’t greasy; rather it looked soft and silky.
The chimes sounded, signaling the end of the intermission. Maggie gulped down the last half-inch of wine in her glass. She stumbled from its strength; but before she could fall, Snape grabbed her arm, pulling her close to his body. They stayed like that for a moment, each other’s heat warming the other. The two pulled apart reluctantly
Snape straightened his suit jacket, Maggie smoothed her dress, and neither looked the other in the eye. They walked silently back up to their seats, soon parting, each ignoring the electricity that flowed between them when they had touched.
Severus Snape settled back into his seat, closing his eyes, trying to not think about his former student. His eyes opened as the music started again and the curtain lifted. He tried his best not to look at her. Snape bit the side of his cheek, hoping the pain would stop him from settling his raven gaze upon her. Maggie McGregor wasn’t having the same trouble; rather she was looking for him in the dim light. Finally she found the beak of a nose and curve of a cheekbone. He seemed to be concentrating solely on the dancers below them. Maybe not, as his eyes were now staring right back at her. A look of surprise crossed his face when he found her look at him. Both awkwardly looked away.
The last artful bow was taken, the last note was played, and the chaos of getting out of the building started. Snape was pushed along to coat-check with a large group of girls. The girls pulled on bright trendy fall coats and he wrapped his billowing cloak around him. He got strange looks whenever he was at a public Muggle function; he always shrugged it off since this was a population who stared at boxes because pictures moved. Managing to get away from the giggling girls, he breathed a sigh of relief in the chilly air. He sat down on the edge of the famous fountain, taking in deep breaths.
Maggie McGregor escaped the mob and now stood about ten feet away from him. She moved closer. Snape could see her flesh had broken out into goose bumps in the chilly fall wind. He stood up and walked till he was less than a foot away from her. Snape opened the large billowing cape and pulled her against him before he knew what he was doing. Maggie was stiff for a moment before sinking into him, resting her cheek against his suit jacket. From the point of view of those outside the embrace, it just looked like a study in true love.
This time they didn’t pull apart. Moments passed without either of them noticing. Maggie and Severus couldn’t just reject how right this felt, how well they fit together. Maggie looked up at the snarky Potions master. Severus looked down at the student whose thirst for knowledge was unrelenting. In a magical moment, Lincoln Center disappeared, and they kissed. And from that moment there was a new beginning. By Orinda Duyster

I need you

(Oliver’s pov)
“I just can’t believe it!” Oliver yelled at his friend Eleanor Quinn.
“Well get used to it” she snapped as she stomped off. Oliver fell into a chair in Eleanor’s office, he still couldn’t believe Eleanor was in love AND to top it off she was in love with the greasy git, Severus Snape!
Oliver wondered how this could have happened and as he thought about it, the reason became obvious:
Oliver and Eleanor had gotten jobs; Eleanor became the new Medi-witch after Madam Pomfrey died in a freak waffle accident. Oliver owned a small magic defense shop in Hogsmeade. ‘Miones job required her to make potions with Him. They must have formed a friendship and she had fallen in love in the process. Oliver sighed, “I guess I’ll go ask how she is going to break the news to him”
(Eleanor’s pov)
I hurried down the stairs towards the entrance hall; I was going to be late for breakfast! I couldn’t believe I was finally going to Severus my feelings but Ginny will force me to do it anyway so I might as well get it over with. Oh did I forget to mention that Ginny is the new Charms professor? I as entered the entrance hall, I gasped. Snape was standing there, talking to the headmaster. “Well here goes nothing” I shivered, as Dumbledore walked away.
I walked up to him nervously, “Severus?” I squeaked. He turned to me “Yes Eleanor?” “Can I ask you a question?” “Sure” he sighed. “We’re friends right?” “Of course” he said “Ok so as friends we can be honest with each other right?” “Yes” he said suspiciously. “Ok so when I ask you these next three questions, I want you to be perfectly honest with me” He grunted in response. “Severus, do you think I’m pretty?” I saw something flicker in his eyes but it was gone before I could identify it. “No” he said coldly. I felt the tears come to my eyes, but I kept going. “Severus, would you want to be with me forever?” “No”. “Severus, if I were to leave, would you cry?” Again he replied “No”. I had heard enough, I turned away just as the tears spilled.
I started to walk away, but he grabbed my arm and made me face him. His next words astounded me. “Eleanor, you’re not pretty you’re beautiful” “I don’t want to be with you forever, I NEED to be with you” “ I wouldn’t cry if you left, I’d die” I fell into his waiting arms and clung to him as I cried. He patted my hair and spoke softly in my ear; “I love you” I smiled as I looked up at him, “I love too” I paused, “I’ve loved you since my fifth year”.
He laughed. I stepped away from his embrace and offered him my arm. “Escort me to breakfast?” I asked “Only if you marry me” he smiled “I would be delighted” I said giddily. He grabbed my hand, and we walked through the stunned crowd of students towards the staff table. By Orinda Duyster

Piczo