Slytherin & Gold

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Slytherin & Gold
chapter 16
Full Moon

~~~~~~~~~~~

Harry

Harry took a deep breath and let it out slowly, staring at the old oak door before him. Professor Snape had given him a fairly diluted mixture of the potion. It hadn’t tasted bad, thank goodness, just a bit tangy, almost lemony. Unless you knew it was there, you would hardly notice it. Now all that was left was to test it. The knot in the pit of Harry’s stomach tightened as he raised his hand, knocking on the door. He waited, feeling the sweat begin to gather on his brow. After a couple of minutes, he sed ted to worry. He knew Viviane was here, but she was not answering the door. Cautiously, Harry tried the door and found it unlocked. Starting to really worry now, he regretted not having his wand, but went inside.

All in the room appeared to be in order. A teapot and two cups were sitting on the table. Harry scanned the room until his eyes rested on the figure sleeping on the bed. He let out an audible sigh of relief. This could be good, he thought. If he felt anything odd he could leave and not wake her. Closing the door, he stood in the middle of the room, not willing to go very far in. He watched her breathe slowly, while taking stock of his own reactions. After a few minutes, he admitted he didn’t feel any different, so he moved closer.

Standing at the foot of the bed, he had a better view of Viviane now. She looked so beautiful laying with her hair fanned out around her head, pink lips parted softly and her hand splayed across her swollen belly. Harry held his breath taking stock of his reactions again. He did think she looked beautiful, but didn’t feel any improper urges. Good. Slowly he moved closer, until he was standing beside the bed. He still felt normal. Encouraged, he sat gently on the bed next to her and waited. Maybe contact was needed, he thought. Leaning down Harry pressed his lips to Viviane’s in a soft kiss, which to his surprise, she responded to. She kissed him sleepily, just with her lips, then pulled back to look at him. Viviane jumped, trying to pull away from him.

“It’s alright.” Harry said quickly. He leaned over to the nightstand and handed Viviane her wand. “I was testing the potion. It seems to be working.” He said smiling nervously. Viviane pulled herself up into a sitting position with Harry’s help. She was still staring at him a bit wide eyed.

“Really, Professor Trisstt, I feel fine.” He wanted to reassure her, but he could tell was was wary of him.

“How long have you been here ?” She asked.

“About 15 minutes or so. I waited a few minutes each time getting closer, then I kissed you as a final test. I really didn’t expect you to wake up.” Harry said apologetically.

“So…....… you mean they have found something ?” Viviane asked, not quite believing.

“Yes. It was Neville who came up with the last ingredient.”

“Neville ? But how …..?” She asked.

“Neville is very good in Herbology. He knew of a berry that could be used. I don’t really understand it all, I’m just glad it worked.” Harry said standing. “I had better go back and let Professor Snape know the potion works, before he gets too worried.”

Viviane got out of bed, with Harry’s help, to see him out. She stopped him at the door.

“How did Neville even know about the need for a potion ? I mean we didn’t tell him anything after ..….”

“I told him about you. I’m sorry, if I shouldn’t have, but he was so miserable last night. He thought he was a monster and that he was going to be expelled. I guess it was lucky I did tell him.” He said opening the door.

“Harry wait. Tell Severus to send Sirius and Neville here after giving them the potion. We will have to make sure it works on the older men.”

“And Neville ?”

“I want him to know I don’t hold what happened against him. He is a marvelous young man. I don’t want him feeling guilty. I should also thank him, don’t you think ?” She said laughing. Harry couldn’t imagine a lovelier sound.


*****************************************

Viviane

Viviane paced restlessly. She was hoping against hope that this potion would solve the problem of her over active sexual energy. She wished, in a way, that she just had morning sickness and swollen ankles like any other pregnant woman. This symptom was by far the worst, but feeling others emotions was becoming a close second. Distance did seem to help, feeling only a short burst of elation from Severus and Remus when Harry must have told them the potion was working. But Viviane wondered what other problems might come up. It was getting so she could tangibly feel an aura of magic surrounding her whenever the babies were particularly active.

Viviane sat down in an armchair to ponder that point. Her magic was getting stronger, not hers per say, but she was carrying the magic of two very powerful beings within her, plus her own. Mostly, she had not been able to control it, but what if she could ? What if a spell or incantation could be found that, with enough power behind it, could lock Remus in his human form ? What if she could remove the dark mark from Severus ? What if …… what if she could destroy Voldemort ? A shiver ran through her at that thought. How could she risk the lives of her babies ? Even if she might be the wizarding world’s best chance to kill the evil wizard ?

Fingering the golden phoenix charm she wore, Viviane ran these thoughts through her head. Severus would never agree to letting her risk herself, she knew that for certain. But there may come a time when he didn’t have a choice. If the chance were to come, she would have to be ready and hope it would be at her most powerful, just before the twins were born. She was jostled out of her ponderings by a knock on the door. Already, she could feel waves of apprehension coming from the other side of the door. Sirius was worried this wouldn’t work. Clumsily getting up, she opened the door for Neville and Sirius to come in. They both stood away from her awkwardly as she closed the door.

“I hear I have you to thank for this, Neville.” Viviane said walking towards him. He started to shrink back from her, but she made a soft shushing sound and wrapped him in her arms. Neville went rigid and just stood still, barely breathing.

“It’s alright, Neville.” She said soothingly, stroking his hair. Relaxing, he wrapped his arms around her waist. “I know that wasn’t you last night. I am so sorry.” She felt him hug her a little tighter before pulling out of her arms.

“I …. I’m really sorry, Professor. I do like you …. I mean ….. you’ve helped me a lot. I was glad to do anything I could to help you.” Neville said, blushing heavily. Viviane laughed softly.

“Do you feel any different ? The potion is working for you ?” She asked. Neville nodded. “Then I wonder if I could speak with Sirius alone ?”

Neville looked apprehensively at the older wizard, who nodded to him. As he went out the door Neville said good bye. Viviane felt the tension in Sirius double, though that was all she felt, no lust. She stepped closer to him, but he stepped back, holding up his hand.

“Not yet ! Take it slow, Viv. Do you have your wand ?” He asked tightly. She showed it to him and he visibly relaxed somewhat. “Severus gave me a more potent version of the potion. I just want to make sure it’s working.”

“It is.” Viviane said plainly.

“How do you know ?” He asked.

“Do you feel any lust ?” Viviane asked with a giggle. Sirius paused, then looked into her eyes.

“No, but how would you know ?”

“It is just another little side effect of my pregnancy. I can feel others emotions, strong ones anyway. And when I’m near them, it’s even easier.” She said finally wrapping her long time friend in her arms. Sirius held her against him, while being careful of her stomach. He let out a long slow sigh and Viviane smiled.

“I love you, too, Padfoot.” She said smiling up at him. Kissing her forehead, his lips lingered before pulling away.

“Viv, I’m so sorry.” He said shaking his head.

“It wasn’t your fault, anymore than it was Neville’s. Don’t feel guilty, Sirius.”

“You sound like Remus.”

“He is a very intelligent man.” She said, making Sirius chuckle.

“I had better get back to let Severus and Remus know the potion is working. I would imagine Severus will come see you soon after. He misses you terribly, though he would never admit it to us.”

“I miss him. I imagine he is still mad at me for drawing my wand on him.” Viviane’s face cringed slightly at the thought.

“You drew your wand on him ?! And lived to tell the tale. He must love you.” Sirius said, kissing her cheek before heading out the door.

*********************************************

Severus

Severus threw a handful of powder into the fireplace and stepped in. A moment later he was stepping out of the hearth in Viviane’s quarters. Looking around he spotted her, standing in the middle of the room. His breath caught in his throat. She looked so beautiful and he wanted her so badly, he feared the potion wasn’t working on him.

Smiling, Viviane walked towards him. He wanted to back away, but her gaze locked him in place.

“It’s alright, Severus. The potion is working.”

“But I still ….”

“What you are feeling are your true emotions.” Viviane said smiling up into his face as she wrapped her arms nd hnd him. He stared down at her, searching her face. Feeling such a mixture of emotions, he stood unmoving as she hugged him tightly, resting her head on his shoulder. Tentatively encircling her in his embrace, he waited, trying to analyze how he felt. Love and longing, that was what he felt most urgently, not the blinding lust he had felt before.

Slowly letting out the breath he didn’t realize he had been holding, Severus kissed the top of Viviane’s head and let his hands caress her back. Then his hands moved to her swollen belly and he leaned down and kissed his children.

“They have missed you.” Viviane said laughing lightly, running her hand through his hair. “They have been kicking and fussing since yesterday.” Severus stood up, keeping a hand on her belly.

“Well, I am home now.” Dealing with emotions had never been easy for him and right now Severus was feeling overwhelmed. Looking deep into her eyes, there was only one thing he knew for certain. “I love you.”

“I love you, too.” She said smiling softly.

“I am sorry for my behavior last night.” He said.

“Let’s not talk about it. That was not you, it was my magic’s effect on you.” Severus nodded and a wry smile came to his lips.

“Quite the formidable witch, aren’t you ? Even under the influence of the sexual energy last night, I knew you could hex me into next week.” He said, kissing her forehead. Bringing a hand up to her cheek, his lips headed towards hers.

“Still can.” She said before their lips met in a slow and hungry kiss. All else was forgotten in favor of the blaze of passion that erupted between them. He kissed her deeply, feeling her body submit to him. He began removing her clothing, needing to be as close to her as possible. Viviane moaned encouragingly into the kiss as he disrobed her. An answering groan came from deep within his chest as he felt her fingers unbuttoning his coat and shirt.


He needed to claim every inch of her again, to embrace her skin to skin. When they had succeeded in undressing each other, they lay on the bed touching and stroking each other. Severus ran his hands over every square inch of her flesh. And feeling her large with his children only filled him with a more urgent need show her the depth of his love. Viviane seemed as desperate to touch and taste him. He lay on his back as her hands caressed his shoulders and chest, heading lower and leaving a trail of kisses along his flesh.

Their lovemaking was slow and thorough, the unspoken elation of being together again. Severus could feel her excitement for him and it doubled his own. Spooning behind Viviane and rocking into her, they met at the peak of their passion, then lay together still connected for as long as possible. Neither wanting to separate from the other.

Severus pulled a comforter over them and held Viviane in his arms. Her passion still astounded him. He never thought a woman would desire his touch, as she did. He had privately feared that as Viviane’s pregnancy progressed, he might desire her le Tha That had most certainly not been the case so far. He found her more desirable than ever and just as lovely.

Snuggling closer, Severus could feel the babies moving under his hand. A smile came to his lips, quickly followed by a frown. No, he vowed silently in his mind, Voldemort would not take those he loved away from him. Those he held in his arms were hife.ife. He would do all he could to keep them safe.


*********************************************

Harry


Harry sat on the cold stone steps of the castle. Today was bright and sunny, though the air was crisp. Painfully bright ripples of light bounced off the surface of the lake. Pulling his cloak tighter, he looked out over the lawns. Several people were out taking advantage of the sun. But there was one golden head in particular he was watching. Viviane hame ome out also saying she needed some fresh air. Snape had to stay in the dungeons making up a large batch of the chaste potion, as they had come to call it, for the house elves to put in all the drinks in the castle. It was fairly diluted and from what he understood, the elves would dilute it a bit less each week, since Viviane’s magic was increasing day by day.

“How ya doin’, Harry ?” Harry turned to look at the little witch that had plopped herself down next to him.

“Fine, Professor Nemean. Come out to enjoy the sun ?”

“Mmmm, yes. I love crisp clear days like this. Bit of a warming spell and I’m off.” She said with a giggle. “My father always made fun of me because I hated warm weather. Well.. I mean … you can always put more clothes on when it’s cold, but you can only take so much off when it’s hot.” Harry laughed too, agreeing with her.

“Is that Viviane down by the lake ?” Harry nodded, following her gaze. “I think I’ll run down and have a chat with her. See ya later, Harry.” She said patting his knee in a friendly gesture. He watched her short auburn hair bounce playfully as she bounded down the steps and across the lawn. Admiring the petite Professor briefly, Harry had to admit she was pretty, in her own quirky way.

Harry watched the two woman talk for some time. They were laughing and generally seemed to be having a good time. Looking down at the bottom of the steps Harry noticed Remus had stopped to watch the women also. Standing, Harry went down to say hello.

“Remus ?” Not getting an immediate answer Harry studied his Professor’s face, then followed his gaze. Remus was staring at Professor Nemean, but not glaring at her as he had done before. There was a sad and wanting look in his eyes. Harry smiled to himself wryly.

“Professor Lupin ?” Harry said, shaking the man lightly this time.

“Harry ?” Remus said, just noticing Harry was there. “Ynow now you can call me Remus when we’re alone.”

“I did, you didn’t answer. See something interesting out there ?” Harry asked trying to hide his amusement.

“Just …um …. watching Viviane.”

“I thought that was my job today.” Harry said. Remus looked at him.

“Yes, so it is. I was enjoying the sun and …. um …..”

“Why don’t you just admit you like her ?” Harry asked flatly. The werewolf’s brow furrowed deeply.

“I thought we established I have only friendly feelings for Viviane ?”

“I wasn’t talking about Professor Trisstt.” Harry said watching Remus’ gaze turn back to the women, or more correctly the auburn haired woman who’s laugh was now resounding through the air. Harry looked back to see a blush creeping into Remus’ cheeks. “Have you talked to her ?”

“No, not really. I mean …… goodness sakes, Harry she’s so young.” The exasperated man said leaning against the stone baluster. Harry couldn’t help the laugh that erupted out of him.

“You are not so old, Professor. And she is a fellow teacher. I don’t think you would be out of line talking to her.”

“I …. can’t . This isn’t the time for …. distractions.” Remus said crossing his arms and looking down at his boots.

“If there is any wisdom I have gained in my short years, it is that relationships are not distractions. They are what life is made up of.” Harry said. Remus chuckled.

“And when did you get to be such a philosopher ?” They stood in companionable silence for a time. Then Remus sighed.

“I don’t know, Harry. Maybe it is just the full moon calling to me.” Remus said, letting his eyes fall on the object of his thoughts again.

“Then wait a week. See how you feel about her then. But don’t deny yourself a new friend. She’s really nice, you know.” Harry said, meeting Remus’ eyes and the werewolf nodded.

“Sound advice.” Remus and Harry looked back to the women and saw Professor Nemean was walking off towards the greenhouses. “I am going to say hello to Viviane. Thank you for the talk, Harry.”

Harry watched as his older friend made his way to the lake. Harry could understand how Remus felt, at least some. He felt the same longing as the werewolf. To have someone with whom you could share yourself. Someone who could know the real you and not the persona you put on for the world. At times it was very difficult to be ‘Harry Potter’ and not just Harry. Ginny had been that person for a time. She still would be to a certain extent, but her affections lay elsewhere. Sighing deeply, Harry settled himself onto the steps again and watch the light reflecting off the lake, lost in thought.


*********************************************

Viviane


Viviane closed her eyes, relishing the feel of the sun on her face. She chuckled softly to herself. She had felt Remus watching her and her young companion, his feelings of insecurity and longing washing over her. Sensing her friend drawing closer, she thought she just might have to see what she could do for his confidence.

“Why don’t you sit down, Remus ? It is impolite to stare.” Viviane said with her eyes still closed.

“How in the world did you know I was here, Viv ?” He said sitting down next to her.

“I have felt you ever since you started talking to Harry.” She said never ope her her eyes.

“Felt me ? You mean ……?” He faltered. She finally opened her eyes and looked at him with a raised eyebrow. A flush of color rose to Remus’ cheeks.

“At least we know the potion is working for you.” Viviane said, not able to keep the amusement from her voice as she gazed at her long time friend. “Why didn’t you come over to talk to her ?”

“I …. um ….Harry and I were talking … and you two seemed to be having such a good time.” Remus said uncomfortably.

“We were talking about you. Cassi thinks you dislike her. I tried to let her know that was not the case, but ….”

“Vie, ye, you didn’t !”

“No Remus, I didn’t, but you should. She told me she thought you were attractive.” She said. They sat in silence for a few minutes.

“What are you afraid of Moony ? I understood you came to some kind of resolution about your feelings for me.” She said.

“Maybe that is the problem, Viv.” He said with a sigh. “I no longer have the excuse of you anymore.” She looked at him, her brow furrowing deeply. “For years I could console myself with the idea that I could not have the one woman I truly wanted. But now, I think Harry was right. It must have been the wood nymph in you that reached out to the wolf in me. I am not saying I do not love you, Viv, you know I do. But I have always felt you understood me better than anyone else, there was a connection between us that I did not feel with anyone else. Not with Sirius or Jam James. Can you understand what I am trying to say ?”

“I think so. I will always be here for you. Severus and I both, you know that. It’s time to fly solo, Moony. No more excuses.” Viviane said smiling and stroking his cheek. They smiled at each other for a moment, when Remus tensed and Viviane grimaced. Their locked eyes widened in fear as another pain shot through both of them. Viviane felt as if her skin was trying to crawl off her body. Remus stood, backing away from her gritting his teeth and shaking his head.

“No …. no it can’t be !” He anguished, looking up into the bright sunlight. Viviane stood to follow him. “NO ! Don’t come near me ! Run, NOW !!”

“Moony ….. It’s daylight…..this can’t happen.” She said as she fell to her knees with another gut retching pain. She could feel the babies kicking in their displeasure at their mothers racing system. Looking up again, Viviane saw fur was starting to cover Remus’ body. He was crouched low to the ground. She began to crawl towards him.

“NO ….. HARRY !!!!” Remus said, but it came out as more of a desperate growl. Looking up, Viviane saw Harry turn and begin to run towards them. A deep growl from the side of her brought Viviane’s attention back to the nearly completely transformed werewolf. As she watched, the wolf shook itself out of the robes in which it was entwined, and it faced her with a level gaze from several feet away.

Suddenly, a golden blur appeared in front of Viviane. A low rumbling growl was emanating from the creature in front of her. lly lly able to stand, she saw it was a lioness, tail down, ears back and ready to pounce. Viviane looked up and met Harry’s astonished eyes.

“It’s …it’s Professor Nemean.” Harry said, pointing at the creature. Viviane’s mind was having trouble understanding everything all at once, but she knew Cassi wouldn’t understand about the wolf.

“Cassi, don’t ! It’s alright, let me talk to him.” She said, but the lion stayed betweeem iem in a threatening crouch. Viviane could feel the wolf’s fear and confusion, it had never seen the light of day and now there was an immediate threat in front of it.

“Cassi … please, back down. Let me calm him.” The lioness backed off slowly, but remained beside her. Viviane palmed her wand and walked slowly towards the wolf, speaking to him and willing him to calm and trust her. She knew she had always been good with animals and part of that must be the wood nymph, but she didn’t know how to access that part of herself.

As Viviane got closer and blocked the view of the lion, Moony turned his attention towards her. Still a few feet away, she knelt and called the wolf to her. The fear was lessening in the wolf and she could tell he wanted to come to her.

“Come to me, Moony. It’s alright. Don’t be afraid. You know me. I would never hurt you, you know that.” The wolf took several steps towards her, but unfortunately so did Harry. Moony, turned and growled threateningly at the young wizard.

“Kneel down, Harry. Now, so he won’t see you as a threat. I will be fine, I promise.” She said. Harry slowly knelt, all the time staring into the eyes of the wolf.

“Moony, he’s your friend. You know Harry.” The wolf lifted his nose into the air, sniffing the air near Harry. Relaxing a little, the wolf turned back towards Viviane. “Come to me, Moony. It’s alright. You have nothing to fear.”

Moony walked slowly to Viviane and sat in front of her. She lowered her head next to his and he rubbed the top of his head across her cheek. She nudged him back with her head and raised the hand holding her wand to his back, stroking him gently and talking to him. Eventually she cast ‘Petrificus Totalus’, caught the wolf and gently lowered him to the ground.

“Why didn’t you use the ‘Homorphus Charm’ ?” Cassi asked after apparently turning back to her true form.

“What is the ‘Homorphus Charm’ ?” Harry asked.

“It is used to force werewolves back into their human forms. But tonight is the full moon, I don’t want Remus to have to go through the change twice in one day.” Viviane said standing. “I will release him when the moon has risen.

“But how did this happen ?” Cassi asked as she and Harry followed Viviane and a floating Moony into the castle. “It’s the middle of the day. I knew he was a werewolf, but I never heard of one changing in the day.”

Viviane cast a glance to the young woman next to her. So she knew Remus was a werewolf and still seemed interested. That was good, very good. Especially since she was an animagi.

“Do you think it’s…. well …. you know ….” Harry askebviobviously not wanting to say too much in front of Cassi about Viviane’s ‘differences’.

“Possibly. We shall have to wait until tomorrow to find out. Harry, go on ahead and open Remus’ office door for me, please.” Viviane cast a cloaking charm over Moony, so they would not draw too much attention. Luckily, no one else had noticed the drama playing out near the lake.

“Cassi, I have to ask you not to say anything about this to anyone. I cannot tell you why right now, but I hope you will trust me.”

“Of course I do, Viviane. I’m just curious. How did you know he wouldn’t hurt you ?” Cassi asked.

“Remus and I have known each other for a long time and I have seen him in his wolf form before. I assumed the wolf would remember me.” Mostly the truth, though not all of it, Viviane thought.

“Will he remember me ? I mean that I’m an animagi ?”

“He had already taken the wolfsbane potion today, so yes, I believe he will.” Viviane said as they reached the open office door. She floated the wolf through, then through to the personal quarters and laid him gently on the bed. She removed the cloaking spell, then leaned down to pet his fur. Cassi stepped tentatively closer, then she stroked him down his side and flank. Viviane smiled at the younger woman as she pet the wolf lovingly. Remus you old wolf, she thought, if you do not snap up this girl you are a damn fool.


*********************************************

Harry

Harry sat quietly at the Gryffindor table, the last few days running through his head. Remus was very upset about the incident by the lake. As best as anyone could figure out, the wood nymph part of Viviane drew out the wolf. But it had not happened since, so the general consensus was that it might only happen on the day of the full moon. If he avoided her on that day there should not be a reoccurrence. Harry had noticed that Remus was making an effort to talk to Professor Nemean now. She had even moved down the staff table to sit between Viviane and Remus. Looking up at the head table, he watched Remus lean in to listen to something the red haired Professor was telling him.

Sighing deeply, Harry tonothnother drink of his tea, his eggs and sausage nearly forgotten. Casting a look at the Slytherin table he saw Draco was again staring at Ginny. Looking to his side, he saw Ginny was doing her best not to look across the hall at the blonde Slytherin. Taking another sip of tea, Harry contemplated his feelings. He didn’t desire Ginny, but she was his friend. And Harry was still unsure of Draco’s allegiances. The Slytherin would never hurt Ginny, of that much he was sure, but would a Malfoy help in the cause to stop Voldemort ? Draco had offered no information so far. Though, to be fair, he had said he was not privy to the Death Eater’s plans. Still, Harry thought, having a set of eyes and ears in Serinerin house may yet prove useful.

Harry had been lending Ginny his invisibility cloak so she could go meet with Draco. He felt a bit guilty about that. It was common knowledge that they were no longer seeing each other, but remained friends. He didn’t know how long Ginny could hide her relationship with Draco from her brothers and when it came out, Harry’s part in getting them together would also come out. He could only hope his intuition about the Slytherin was correct.

There was a sudden rush of the sound of wings as the morning owl post arrived. Dozens of owls flew around the hall delivering their letters and packages. Harry saw an owl land in front of Viviane. As he watched she took the letter from the owl and gave it a piece of bacon before it flew off. Snape was talking around her to Remus. They appeared to be deep in conversation.

Harry had just turned his attention back to the rest of the hall when he heard a half anguished cry come from the head table. Viviane’s eyes were wide, her hand over her mouth shaking as she stared at the letter in her hand. Most eyes had turned towards the scene at the staff table. Snape was helping her up as Remus spoke to Professor Nemean seeming to tell her to stay there, then the two men pulled the distraught woman into the staff room. Harry gave a quick glance to Ron and Hermione, then shot a look to Draco, who nodded imperceptibly. Getting up, Harry walked quickly to the staff room door, which Dumbledore had just gone through. With all the activity going on inside, Harry didn’t think anyone inside would notice him.

Snape was holding Viviane as she cried quietly in his arms. Remus had the letter in his hands reading it quickly, his face growing darker with each sentence he read. Harry looked up, meeting Dumbledore’s concerned expression. He thought for a moment the Headmaster might throw him out, but the old wizard placed a hand on his shoulder before turning his attention back to Remus.

“Viviane’s parent were attacked.” Remus said disgustedly. Harry felt his heart clench tightly in his chest. He hadn’t known Govannon and Melissae long, but he imagined they were like the grandparents he had never had. Remus went on.

“A party of Death Eaters attacked their cottage. Their alright, for now, but Melissae was injured before Govannon could get her out. She can’t be moved yet or Govannon sae woe would have brought her here immediately.” Remus looked from the crying Viviane to Dumbledore, both pain and fire in his eyes. “I am going for them.” His tone leaving no room for argument.

“No, Lupin. I will go. They are my future in-laws.” Snape piped up. Remus shook his head vehemently.

“This is a trap, Severus, you know it as well as I. You are staying here with Viviane. This is a diversion to draw you or both of you out of Hogwarts. You will be needed here in case they decide to come for her.” The amber eyes of the werewolf blazed, though he spoke quietly.

“You can not go alone, Remus. Take Sirius with you. When Melissae is better, bring them both here.” Dumbledore said. Remus was shaking his head slowly.

“Sirius will be needed here if an attack comes. I can not leave you two wizards down.” Remus said.

“You won’t.” Harry said, speaking for the first time. Snape and Viviane turned to him, only then noticing he was there. “There are at least five other wizards willing to protect Professor Trisstt and Professor Snape.” Snape started to open his mouth to protest, but the Headmaster cut him off.

“Mr. Potter is correct. I believe the evening of the Yule Ball proved how competent our young friends can be.” Dumbledore said, as he put an arm around Harry’s shoulder.

“No …… no one else can be hurt. I will not allow it.” Viviane said tearfully. Dumbledore raised a not too amused eyebrow.

“I believe, my dear, I am still Headmaster of this school. We will think of this as an extra curricular activity for certain students. A practical test of their Defense Against the Dark Arts talents.” Viviane still looked unconvinced. “Viviane, trust that I would not put my students in harms way.”

“Headmaster …. I can’t ..” Viviane started, but Harry cut her off.

“Professor Trisstt, please. I know I speak for the others when I say we will do all we can.” Harry said.

“They are no longer children, my love. And we are not asking them to go into battle. They will merely be keeping their eyes and ears open.” Snape said. Harry was shocked by the dark man’s support. “And they will report anything odd.” He said with a meaningful glare at Harry.

“Of course, sir.” Harry said.

“Very well. Find Sirius and leavesoonsoon as possible.” Dumbledore told Remus. Remus nodded and turned to go.

“Moony … wait.” Viviane said breaking free of Snape and grabbing Remus’ arm. The werf lof looked into her face with determination.

“I will bring them back to you.” With that simply stated, Remus kissed the pregnant woman on the cheek and departed. Harry briefly pondered the werewolf’s resolve. He did not ever want to make Remus mad at him.

“Collect the students and bring them to my office, Mr. Potter. I will explain the situation and answer any questions they might have.” The Headmaster said. Harry nodded and went out the door to the entry hall, he thought it might be best to come back in the Great Hall doors.

On his way to get his friends, Harry tried to calm his fears. They said they were alright, he kept telling himself, but Melissae is injured and injured bad enough that she could not be moved. There had to be a way to stop Voldemort from hurting all the people he cared about. He felt as Viviane did, no one else should be hurt by this demon.

Harry found his friends clustered together at the Gryffindor table, heads bowed deep in conversation. A brief glance confirmed Harry’s susons ons that Draco had stayed in the hall as well, but he would have to be filled in later.

The group all turned to Harry expectantly as he reached them. “Let’s go. We’re needed.” That said the students stood, four Weasleys, Hermione and Neville followed Harry without question. On the way to the Headmaster’s office, Harry rolled Snape’s comments through his head, ‘we are not asking them to go into battle’ he had said. Soon they may not have to ask, the battle may come looking for them.

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I HAD to include Neville. If you haven’t figured it out I ‘LOVE’ Neville, so hopelessly sweet with such a good heart. It was fun making him aggressive though. ~_^

Sooooo sorry for the long delay in posting. As I said my muse packed up and pissed off, so I have been struggling through on my own. But the story is getting very interesting now. I hope to hear from everyone who reads this chapter. (please, please, please)

Until next time ……. Glinda

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>>>> AN 11/4 - After posting 12 pages of work and recieving 2 reviews, I\'m not very encouraged to finish this story. I have it all outlined out (and yes Harry does find someone), but with so few interested, I may spend more time working on my other stories. Let me know with reviews if you want this to continue.

Thanks, Glinda

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