I am a thirtysomething mother of two, a boy and girl, both too young to read HP. I am obsessed with Harry Potter, especially anything to do with Severus Snape. However, my favorite author is Anne McCaffrey, and my favorite fictional character is Afra from McCaffrey's Tower and Hive series. Severus is a close second, though.
My favorite movie is The Abyss, but only the extended version. The original theatrical release made no sense.
I love reading HP fanfiction. I would like to write more myself, but alas, I have neither the time nor the patience. Maybe someday.
Isn't Travers in the original series?
Why would Severus be arrested for killing a known Death Eater? Is it because the Ministry still does not believe there ARE Death Eaters?
And why would Dumbledore ask the students to give him the benefit of the doubt? Shouldn't the staff and students be happy that Severus would kill a Death Eater? I hope the next chapter brings us the article from the Prophet.
Is Hermione overjoyed that Severus is safe (in Ministry custody) or terrified at what fate may await him? It is unclear (I suspect intentionally??) what her emotions are as she grips her seat.
Thanks for the update! Keep writing!
Author's Response: yes indeedy-o, you may expect that article from the prophet (and several others as well) which will, i hope, provide answers to all your questions :D thanks so much for reading! i love active reviewers :D :D
I think you mean "rein" (both times), not reign. Still, I enjoyed this chapter. It was a good analysis of the confusion roiling in the minds of both of these stubborn characters. I'm glad that Severus acted honorably in the end, not crossing the line with a student. I do wonder why Hermione questioned his right to discuss honor. Have I forgotten something? I'm also glad the updates are coming more quickly again.
Author's Response: oh god lol. i am spelling retarded xD xD thanks so much for that catch! i will go change it right away!! and as far as Hermione goes, that line was sort of for you to interpret however you want. a lot of times my writing gets away with me and characters will suddenly say something that just floors me -- it came out of me because i was irritated with snape and trying to make hermione snappy. it just sort of happened, and so i left it. i don\'t know how to explain, but a lot of times i leave things in like that because it seems more real to me -- more genuine. anyways, thanks so much for reading!! i\'ll try to get the next chapter out soon :D
Ooo, I didn't realize you had posted this story here, as well. I wrote a couple of comments over at LJ, which has a few more chapters. It seems almost finished there...or am I just imagining that?
I do have trouble imagining Snape as a 90-year-old man. Couldn't it be 25 years in Azkaban instead of 50? I know wizards live a long time, but still...
Incidentally, is there a crossover with "Fair Exchanges"? The scene where Severus gives Albus the burn potion makes me think of blue lightning. (or is it purple? Been a while since I've read that one.)
Author's Response: Hee hee. All my stories have little internal crossovers here and there, it\'s fun that way. I picked 50 years because it seems that murder would carry a harsh sentence and for wizards, 25 years didn\'t seem long enough.
Ahh, Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned--and said woman now has no friends or family! Poor Hermione.
One thing I didn't quite understand, though. What exactly did Severus feel for Ginny? He seemed to be feeling guilty, and not just about lying to Hermione.
Author's Response: I just threw in the Severus/Ginny to make the reader, like Hermione, wonder if there\'s something going on between them. But no, there isn\'t anything - he was only feeling guilty about lying to Hermione.
Well, my guess is that the entire room has just been poisoned. I'm looking forward to reading the last two chapters!
Glad to see a new chapter posted! Hurry up with the next one, please.
Oh, I loved it. I love Snape. And Dobby. I don't think Snape was OOC at all, especially after reading DH.
Very nice story. Did you get the idea for James's prank from The Parent Trap (Hayley Mills version)?
I love Snape, and it is wonderful when someone can capture his humanity without going OOC. Nice job.
Uh-oh. I hope that is "I'm so happy for them" shock and not "I must inform his enemies" shock.
Author's Response: Tune in for the next episode...
You\'ll see. :-D
Dani
I have been unable to read for a while, so I am just now getting back to your story. I actually found (and finished) it on the other site, but I like MNFF, so I will continue to support them by reviewing here.
Though I had already read it a couple of weeks ago, this chapter was difficult for me to read today. A good person I first knew in college passed away this morning. Though he was 81 years old and had lived a full and happy life, his death was still a shock; his parents both lived to near 100. So I was certainly empathizing with Dani as I read about the Camptas.
Anyway, sorry to digress. I have to admit that your story is sometimes confusing to me. I tend to forget which colleaugues are magical and which are not. I think that is mostly because I have read the story one chapter at a time for so long.
I did have to reread one sentence in this chapter. "It was where Severus and I met for our first “public appearance”, when he took me to Wizard Rome to meet his Master and introduce me to the man who would become mine." Seeing _Master_ capitalized made me think it was referring to Voldemort. Duh. Although that is actually one part of CaG that still confuses me: Did Severus join the DEs willingly, or was he always acting on DD's orders? No need to answer here; I need to reread CaG (again!).
Good work, as usual. This seems kind of like a "filler" chapter, though, so I'll go on to the next one now.
Author's Response: I agree. I think the story is best read as a book with all the chapters in tact. It's long and there are a lot of details. I can understand the confusion when having to wait for two weeks for the next part to come out. Dani
So, the second sensation obviously was two-fold because she was sensing both Severus and DD on the Tower. But who was she sensing an hour earlier? Was it DD, as he and Harry returned to find the Dark Mark over the castle? Or was it Severus, when he realized the DEs had infiltrated the castle? Or someone else entirely (though I doubt that)?
I like how this chapter parallels the end of HBP even though Dani isn't even there for the most significant events. But sad as it is that she is alone again, Severus lot right now is even sadder. This would be the time frame when he visits Grimmauld Place to retrieve Lily's letter and photo and also the time when he has to stand by helplessly as the Charity Burbage is murdered. I'm suprised Dani isn't reeling with the force of emotions Severus must be feeling at this point in the story. He must have his feelings locked away completely. Is she also shielded against him, perhaps?
I am always amazed at your descriptions of the brewing process. You must really enjoy chemistry. I appreciated the comment about Wizards overlooking the simple causes.
One more book to go....
Author's Response: The first sensation was Severus as he realized that Death Eaters were going or had attacked the castle. Personally, I find the next few chapters VERY interesting. :-D
Severus is lucky that Carrow wouldn't have the nerve to approach Voldemort directly to confirm S's story.
Wouldn't the Professors wonder why the torturee would use S's first name? Or did they hear only the scream? Poor Dani; she's not normally an exhibitionist, is she?
I'm trying to remember what the other items in the box are. Oh, well, all in good time (or I could reread elsewhere--with all my free time-ha!).
You didn't know Remus's ultimate fate when you began your story, did you? It's amazing how you adapted to make everything fit in with the canon story.
Author's Response: Thank you for the kind review. No, I had no idea how JKR’s story would end when I began writing the trilogy and cried my eyes out when Remus died in her books. I have such a soft spot for him.
My guess is that McGonagall and Sprout only hear Daniella scream (catching only the last part of the encounter) and no she’s not an exhibitionist…no one “saw” anything. The poor portraits where having a devil of a time trying to see but couldn’t. Sometimes, however, the build up of the moment just kind of…takes over, and you have to let it out.
*grins*
I always considered Carrow a slow-witted individual who was afraid of those with more power than him. Severus had the power. I don’t think Carrow would go over his head.
Some of the other items from the box will be used soon. Stay tuned.
Dani
Well, this isn't one os my favorite chapters (they can't all be my favorites, right?). I'm less interested in the Remus storyline than the other one--you know. But I've been trying to review every chapter so you'll know who's reading.
I have been curious about something, though. Why did you choose the AU category? Your story is amazingly consistent with canon; couldn't it go in the General Fics category? I wonder if it might get more readers there. It's a fantastic story and deserves a higher read count.
Author's Response: I had to bring Remus back for future chapters and establish his link to Tonks. The AU category was because the main character is OC, and it doesn't take place at Hogwarts. I think I stuck with the AU category also because of the second story which took place in Italy - definately AU. Thanks for the suggestion though. I may ask a mod. Dani
"I finally understood why Severus felt so conflicted toward the Potter boy. It wasn’t just that Saxon would have been in the same year, but the debt to James had not been fulfilled. In his mind, he transferred it to the son. That, in addition to feeling guilty about passing along the overheard part of the prophecy, weighed on him greatly. There was another factor, but I wasn’t willing to tread there just yet."
Here is some more of the passage, for context. I think the "other factor" has to do with Severus's attitude towards Harry, and I wondered if it was because he was Lily's son. (Doesn't Dani remind him of this fact at some point?) I love your story, but it isn't the only one I follow, so I get confused. I can't remember whether Severus and Lily had any kind of a relationship in your story or whether that would impact Severus's choices now. But I also am not sure what else you would be referring to in that last line.
Author's Response: Yes, that line does deal with Dani knowing about Lily, but you don\'t yet know in what context. No, Severus and Lily\'s relationship has never been brought up in this story, but Dani is an Empath. She would \"feel\" something.
Interestingly, my previous two reviews show up as reviews for the prologue. Huh?
Anyway, you asked why was Snape's old Potions book hanging out in the dungeon. I've wondered about this too. And what are the odds that Harry would end up with it? I have often suspected that it was meant to end up in his hands. I originally suspected DD, but perhaps Severus himself had something to do with it? (I'm talking canon now, not your story.) He seems to be learning for the first time that Harry possesses it when he uses Legilemency on Harry after H uses Sectumsempra on Malfoy. But perhaps he is just searching for Harry's motivation? After all, we see the story mostly from Harry's point of view, so we never really know why the other characters behave the way they do (except for the odd chapter that is told from a different POV).
On another note, I also would have liked to see more of Severus's reaction to DD's injury. I know we see some of it in the Pensieve scene, but I am curious as to whether Dani and Severus discussed it at all. After all, they both care about DD.
Author's Response: Curious, but it could simply be JKR’s way of setting the story. After all, it was originally written for children, and children often take things at face value without complex questioning. I could have definitely included more detail in my story, but as with all stories, you have to pick and choose what to include. It was longer than anticipated already. I hope you enjoy the rest of it. Dani
How did she know the scurrying sounds was the trio? I know she can "scan" or whatever, but I wouldn't think she would be expending energy on that in this situation.
Even though there was no real reason that she would be there when Remus's body arrived, I'm glad you included that in this story. It makes it even more of a tear-jerker, but these two needed that closure. I do have to wonder whether you would have continued their friendship had Rowling not offed him....
I sent you an e-mail asking about "Once upon a Time." Do you plan to post it here at MNFF? That is the only way I'll be able to review it.
You'll want to post the Epilogue soon so those who haven't read it yet will not expire of dehydration (from crying).
Author's Response: I responded by e-mail.
DAni
Still no Severus....
Seriously, though, a few days ago I was just thinking I hadn't got any Mugglenet updates lately, and hoping I would get one for your story. Voila! The next time I checked my e-mail, there it was!
I like how you are using Dani to explain how Dumbledore knew so much. And I think it is interesting that you had already written him as so work-centered ("his idea of small talk") even before DH came out.
As always, good work. I look forward to updates.
Author's Response: Don\'t worry, Severus is not forgotten. Tee hee hee\r\nI always did find Dumbledore rather single -minded when it came to defeating Voldemort, manipulative, too.
This chapter moved a bit too quickly for my liking. I wish you had spent more time on the events at the MoM rather than jumping right into the retrieval of the ring. But I understand that you have your own agenda! I don't like that Dani and Severus aren't going to be allowed to communicate directly. They are best when they are together.
I am trying to figure out what happened in August, or even whether you're referring to an event from the book.
I have written multiple reviews of chapters in the past and have never been denied because I had already reviewed. (I tend to forget things and end up posting 2 [or more] reviews back-to-back.) So I don't think that will be a problem.
Keep writing! I am intrigued....
Author's Response: I\'m so glad you didn\'t have trouble posting the review. I\'ve had trouble in the past...granted, not with this site. \r\n\r\nI didn\'t want to rehash the events at MoM, JKR did such a wonderful job. Daniella wouldn’t have been there anyway. There was no place to fit her character into the battle. It just wouldn’t have been right. Her job is always behind the scenes. We have to see the reason for what Albus is doing and he’s dealing with his “situation” at school/with Draco.\r\n\r\nAs for Dani and Severus, this is only chapter 45 of 65, have no fear…hint, hint. After all, this story is about them.\r\n\r\nThe reference to August is to give you a place in time. Pettigrew is living with Severus, and Severus (according to the books) has risen in his standing with Voldemort. Another development is about to unfold before school goes back, and Book six is about to begin.\r\n\r\nHope you like the rest.\r\n\r\nDani\r\n
Oops, I read but never reviewed. Sorry!
I don't think I would appreciate having all those headmasters eavesdropping on my conversation. I don't care how sworn to secrecy they are. That would just be weird. No wonder they fled for Daniela's quarters.
I've always thought Ginny was the exception that proved the rule of Severus's loathing of the Weasley's. I think he would have a certain grudging respect for her. Cute insertion of that storyline here, and I like your addition of the reason of keeping Harry away from Hogsmeade.
Does Pomona realize that Daniela doesn't really explain why she was away last night and all day today? She as much as admits that she spent all that time with Severus!
Sorry for the delay. I'll try to do better in the future.
Author's Response: Don’t worry about the delay. At least you’re still reading and reviewing. May read but don’t bother leaving a message.
I don’t like people listening in on my conversations either, but I don’t think it was a “conversation” that they were avoiding when they left. wink, wink.
I like Ginny, although I would never write her. I like to play with her strengths in comparison to Harry’s … weaknesses.
No, Pomona is just a clueless busybody (although another character that I like). She may have been curious, but remember, she’s a Hufflepuff. She didn’t put two and two together.
The next chapter is in queue and will hopefully be posted soon.
Dani
Wouldn't Voldemort wonder who had repaired the tomb? Or would he not even notice, as he has no more use for it? Did Dani use the same power she used to help Sara (was that her name?)?
Beautiful scene in Dani's quarters. I could visualize everything perfectly from your descriptions.
I like how you have McGonagall refusing to accept that Severus is purely evil. I honestly was surprised that she didn't "catch on" in the real novels. She seemed the type to analyze situations fully. (I was even more surprised that Hermione didn't figure it out, but that's a different story.) Her uncertainty here is more akin to what I would expect from her.
This chapter is a nice respite from the horrors before and yet to come. It is kind of peaceful even though there is so much sadness.
Author's Response: McGonagall would have known that Severus was part of the order, and I think that kind of contact would make her question why he does some of the things he does. Remember, when he gave Ginny and them detentions, he sent them to Hagrid instead of the Carrow. McGonagall would have known that too.
Darker chapters ahead. It's almost done.
Dani