FicWad

Disclaimer.
J.K Rowling went out one day so I took her characters out to play.
We ran around, they laughed with glee,
All this fun and she works for free!



Phaelan spent the coming week with Harry, Hermione and Ron, trying to get a feel for the students in the DA.

"Are you taking over our training?" Asked Harry.

"I can't exactly help you with curses or hexes now can I?" answered Phaelan.

"So, what exactly will you be coaching?" wondered Ron.

"Well, Mr. Weasley, as much as you think you might be practicing teamwork and coordination, there are exercises and skills you can learn, that will make your group more cohesive." Phaelan smiled. "I think your adventure at the Dept. of Mysteries, was a lesson on how people are far more than what they seem. Now we need to instil confidence and make certain skills an automatic response, rather than an afterthought."

"Aren't we rather young to be expected to have the skills you're talking about, Miss McKenzie? We're not soldiers," observed Hermione.

"You are exactly the same age as thousands of others training in the military all over the world and a damn sight older than some combatants I've fought and killed," answered Phaelan, suddenly hardening her voice. "Don't kid yourself, when I'm finished with you, you're going to feel decades older and you'll probably end up hating me."

"If you're to give us physical training and tactical training, who will be taking over the actual DADA for our group?" asked Harry.

With a knowing smile, Phaelan answered, "Professor Snape."

The three blanched at the thought.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Phaelan entered the kitchen and saw the Weasley Matriarch in distress.

"Molly, what's wrong?" Phaelan asked, concerned to see anyone so distraught.

"My mother's sister has taken poorly and they're not sure if she can recover. I should go to her, but I can't leave with all that must be done," sobbed Molly.

"Surely everyone here can pitch in, Molly? This is a regular AGA stove isn't it?" asked Phaelan.

Molly nodded her head, dabbing her eyes with a tea towel.

"There you go; I can cook and get the others to do what they must," assured Phaelan.

"There's a lot to do and I always give full meals," Molly began, suspicious of Phaelan's abilities.

Phaelan sighed, "Even American Muggles know how to cook, Molly, and I am, or was, a Naval officer; I do know how to give orders. We can manage."

"There you are, Molly, lets make the arrangements to get you there," soothed Arthur, giving his wife a hug.

"Alright then; after breakfast," Molly nodded. At that, Hermione and Ginny entered the kitchen to help Molly. They were followed by Tonks.

"Morning, all." she called, "Anything I can do to help?" Tonks offered.

"No thanks," chorused the three females, already working.

"Oh, right then, I'll grab a breath of morning air out back." She smiled as she turned to leave, only to trip over a chair and send Arthur's teacup skidding across the table and onto the floor.

Molly pointed her wand and repaired the china, while Hermione wiped up the mess with a spelled mop. As soon as Tonks had left the kitchen, Molly came to Phaelan's side.

"We don't let Tonks help in the kitchen while the order is here, else we'd have no crockery and no edible food. Just so you know." Molly nodded sagely.

"Gothcha," replied Phaelan, wondering how someone as clumsy as Tonks made it as an Auror.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

After breakfast had been cleared away, Molly packed and now stood in the kitchen with all of the house occupants around her.

"While I'm gone, Phaelan is in charge of the kitchen and household. I expect you to follow her rules like my own." Molly began giving particular looks to her own family who were the majority.

"Ginny, you help as much as you can in the kitchen. You know how the charms work. Everyone else is on the work Rota as usual. I should be back in a couple of days. I expect all of you youngsters to behave." She finished with a stern glare.

"Bye mum." "Bye Mrs Weasley." Molly made her way out to a chorus of farewells.

When it had quieted down, everyone turned to Phaelan.

"Alright, I have the duty sheet here from Molly. She said you all know your jobs, so get to it. I'll be around at 11:30 hours for inspection. Carry on," Phaelan ordered, in her most authoritative voice.

Everyone stood looking at her. "That gives you two hours people, MOVE!" she commanded, with a glare to rival Snape. With a great scuffling of feet and dragging of chairs, the household went off to their assigned tasks.

Snape stood in his customary corner, drinking a mug of tea, taking in the sight with great amusement.

"Well, what are you standing there for?" asked Phaelan "We have to get to the Kosher and Italian Markets this morning."

"We?" uttered Snape, as if it were something distasteful in his mouth.

"You are the only person not assigned any chores, as far as I can see," replied Phaelan.

"Of course not!" Snape looked down his nose at her.

"Good. I assume you know where the markets are?" Phaelan grabbed a money sac and her shoulder bag, before donning robes to leave the house.

Snape led the way out, with a giant huff for any to hear. He and Phaelan apparated to the busy Jewish Wizarding Merchant centre, when they reached the end of the wards. He watched as she dickered (in Hebrew) with the butcher, delicatessen and baker, bringing down prices and having extra's thrown in. Next, they were off to Little Italy, where he witnessed the same process in Italian, with the dairy and green grocers. They arrived back at Grimmauld Place, laden with bags of fresh bread, produce, meat and, to Phaelan's amusement somehow, 'Change back'.

'Thank you for your help. I think we got enough to last until Molly comes back." Phaelan smiled at him, "And, I think you'll enjoy dinner tonight."

"I never stay for meals here. The company is, shall we say, uncomfortable for me," Snape told her.

"You can't do that to me!" exclaimed Phaelan, disconcerted over his desertion.

"What?" asked Snape, with a frown.

"You can't leave me to the tender mercies of all those red heads, without Molly to referee and that Aussie lothario, who thinks his prick is Gods gift. Don't you dare!" she demanded.

Laughing inwardly at her fervent plea for an ally, Snape surrendered, "Alright, I'll stay, just for you." He tapped his forefinger to her nose. "Don't tell anyone why."

In reply, Phaelan smiled and then set to the task of getting a lunch on the table. Later in the afternoon, Phaelan was sitting with her feet up, reading a book in the kitchen while a pot of chicken soup simmered on the stove. She and the two younger girls had managed to get everything prepared and oven ready for dinner. She had made coffee and announced it by shouting up the stairs, much as Molly would have. Sean Gillhooly was the first to enter the kitchen.

"Hello, my lovely, all alone? What a shame. You need some company." He suggested, coming up behind Phaelan, who had risen to stir the pot on the AGA.

"A good book, coffee and peace and quiet are perfect companions right now, Mr. Gillhooly. Thank you anyway," replied Phaelan as coldly as Snape might.

"For a Muggle, you're a feisty Sheila. We got a lot in common you know, you Yanks and us Aussie's."

Turning to get away from the stove and him, Phaelan tried to verbally push his attentions away. "I couldn't think of one thing we might have in common, Mr. Gillhooly, excuse me," She spat between gritted teeth, trying to pass him.

Catching her against the counter with his body, he smiled. "I told you it was Sean to you, Phaelan. I think we could be great pals." He lowered his head to try and kiss her neck.

Unknown to either of them, Snape had just entered the Kitchen, immediately followed by Lupin. As he watched in growing anger, Snape noticed Phaelan's hands come around under the other mans shirt at his waist. He was about to leave the kitchen, thinking she had made a choice over him, when he saw her hands give a sudden heave upwards. A strangled sound came from the Australian's throat, as he struggled to walk, after Phaelan had pulled his underwear up and out of his pants at the back. Remus and Snape winced in unconscious commiseration for the cad's private bits.

"Keep your fucking hands to yourself, Gillhooly or next time you'll have to deal with more than a wedgey or less as the case may be," yelled Phaelan.

Walking with exaggerated caution, the wedgey, wearing man made his way out of the kitchen.

" 'Scuse me, I have to get to the toilet," He croaked, as he passed Lupin and Snape.

"Interesting technique, Phaelan, does it only work with Jockey style underpants?" asked an amused Remus.

"No, it works with them all, pretty much." Phaelan replied as she walked over to see the man going down the hall.

"Assuming one wears superfluous underwear," Snape interjected, in his silken tone, leaving Phaelan no doubt as to the type of undergarment he wore or more correctly, did not.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dinner was a crowded affair, even with the magically lengthened table. Dumbledore sat at his customary place, at the head of the table with assorted Weasley's lining benches either side, interspersed with non-red-haired people. Snape sat to Phaelan's left, while Gillhooly sat as far from her as possible, still wincing in pain now and again.

"Severus, how nice that you could join us, this evening. To what do we owe this honour?" asked Dumbledore.

"I had thought that since I had acted as a beast of burden for the chef in her morning forage, I might partake in the fruits of my labour," replied Snape, in his usual snide manner.

'You're always welcome my boy, you know that," smiled the old man, not for a moment fooled at Snape's sarcastic tone.

Phaelan and Ginny brought out the tureen of soup for the first course. As Dumbledore was served, he realized the meal Phaelan had prepared was close to the traditional dinner for the Jewish Sabbath.

"Phaelan," Dumbledore began, as he conjured two candlesticks before her on the table, "will you perform the candle lighting for us this evening?" He looked at her expectantly over his spectacles.

"If you wish, sir." She replied with a sad smile.

Dumbledore transfigured a spare napkin and sent it floating to her, as a lace shawl, which she covered her hair with.

At the confused looks of most of the table, Dumbledore explained, "On Friday evenings, in traditional Jewish homes, the lady of the house would light candles to welcome the Sabbath and then recite a prayer. Since Phaelan has prepared us a Sabbath meal, I think it is fitting she celebrate."

Lighting a spark at the end of her wand, Tonks passed it to Phaelan who lit the candles and passed it back. Waving her hands in a circle twice over the candles, before covering her eyes, Phaelan began to recite as her Savta had taught her:

Barukh atah Adonai, Elohaynu, melekh ha-olam,
asher kid'shanu b'mitzvotav, v'tzivanu
l'had'lik neir shel shabbat (Amein)
Blessed are You, Lord, our God, King of the Universe,
who sanctifies us with his commandments, and commands us
to light the candles of Shabbat (Amen)

"Good Shabbos," called Phaelan, as she took her seat to begin her dinner.

Matzo ball Soup, Roasted chicken and vegetables finished up with Tiramisu. Not kosher but delicious.

"Okay lads, it's your turn to clean up." announced Remus, to the groans of the overstuffed teens.

Smiling to herself, Phaelan made her way to the garden for air. As she sat on the bench midway down, Phaelan looked skywards to contemplate the constellations.
"Not quite the same as Hogwarts," said Snape, stepping out from the shadows of the trees in the yard.

"No, but everything changes, depending on how you look at it," observed Phaelan, only slightly surprised he was there.

"We return to Hogwarts on Sunday evening; the students arrive Monday evening," said Snape, coming to sit beside her. Suddenly, Phaelan became conscious of a warm sensual caress on her neck, that caused her to shiver.

"Severus, you'd better stop now," whispered Phaelan. His reply was to turn her and pull her into a deep kiss.

As he pulled away, Severus touched her swollen lips with his finger tips.

"I have to put in my flight time, tomorrow. I have forms for you to come next month. Will you sign them?" Phaelan asked.

"To visit your Air Base?" he asked.

"No, to fly with me." Phaelan smiled, at his open mouth stare. "Not afraid are we?"

"Eh, no, not at all. I just didn't expect to be asked." Snape replied, wondering what the hell he'd gotten himself into.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sunday evening, Molly returned to Grimmauld Place, to the assurances her culinary skills were sorely missed.

"It's alright, dear, it takes years of practice to be a really good cook. I'm sure they appreciated your efforts," consoled Molly, thinking Phaelan must be hurt at the comments of the residents.

Phaelan was thankful Molly didn't see the twins stealing the rest of the Strawberry Shortcake and chocolate fudge brownie squares, to share with the rest of the younger folk upstairs. Remus made sure she wasn't around when he asked for Phaelan's recipe for Moussaka, as he ate the leftovers from Saturday night's dinner.

Packed and ready, Phaelan apparated with Snape back to Hogwarts, late in the evening. They arrived not at the gates as she had expected, but at the dock outside the train station.

"Dumbledore thought you should see this at least once," explained Snape, as he helped her into a boat. With a wave of his wand, the boat left the dock and headed out towards the castle. Out of a mist, the lights and towers of Hogwarts gradually appeared.

"I wish I could have seen this as a child," breathed Phaelan, awed by the fairytale quality of the castle. They didn't speak for the rest of the journey.

Entering the Castle by the underground docks, Snape accompanied Phaelan to her rooms.

"I'll be here to pick you up before sunrise. There's something I want to share with you." Snape told her, as he turned to bid her good night. "I know you like to watch the sunrise."

"How do you know?" She asked in confusion. His reply was to lift his brows and bow before leaving.

After he left Phaelan at her room, Snape made his way to the Headmaster's office. When he was admitted, the old man looked at him over the top of his glasses.

"You will make your offer tomorrow?" asked the Headmaster.

"Yes, with your permission," answered Snape.

"We haven't had a formal courtship for years in the castle. You have your elves in place; your gifts prepared?" Dumbledore inquired.

"Yes, they were quite excited at the prospect of all the fuss. I'm not sure that Phaelan will be as enthusiastic. She wants to know what all the production is about," sighed Snape, looking out the window.

Dumbledore chuckled. "She is more than worthy, my boy. I'm proud of you; you have done well in your choice. Now just keep her safe."

"Do stop trying to make it sound like this was planned, old man. We had no idea who we'd get for this job," said Snape, in his usual snarky manner.

"Perhaps; we'll see," he replied, cryptically.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Before dawn, Severus rose and bathed. In his rooms, Dobby had laid out his formal dress robes.

"Dobby," called Snape. "You used to cut Malfoy's hair, if I recall."

"Yes master. Dobby was a valet elf to Master Malfoy," the elf replied.''

"Alright, trim the ends and be careful, don't take off too much," Snape ordered. When Dobby finished, Snape dressed with care. He walked to his dresser and placed a small box in his pocket.

"Accio broom." He summoned his personal broom and made his way to Phaelan's rooms, followed by Dobby. Knocking on her door, he waited for her reply.

Phaelan had been wakened and dressed by Polly, who fussed and tutted over her. When the knock came to her door, Phaelan was apprehensive. Something was happening and she had no clue what.

Opening the door, Phaelan found Severus, dressed in his best robes, waiting for her.

"Will you ride with me to see the sunrise, Phaelan?" Snape requested formally.

"On that?!" exclaimed Phaelan, pointing at the broom.

"Trust me," Snape said, as he held out his arm.

Taking a deep breath, Phaelan took his arm and walked to the front doors, followed by Dobby and Polly.

"We will summon you when we return," Severus dismissed them. "Come with me Phaelan and greet your new day."

"There's no safety belt on the broom," Phaelan squeaked, through a dry mouth.

Mounting the broom, Severus settled the matter by grabbing her and sitting her sideways, with both arms around her holding her and the broom. Phaelan grabbed him around the waist as he kicked off.

"Oh my," was her only reaction, as they climbed higher than the tallest tower of the castle and circled in the moonlight, before heading east to a mountainside.

"Look around your new world, Phaelan; don't be afraid. I'll never let you fall," Severus murmured in her ear.

Lifting her head off of Severus shoulder, Phaelan looked down to see the loch below her, the moon reflecting off its surface. A flight of bats returning home, passed like shadows, as the wet fog of a low lying cloud laid damp on their faces. This was flying as primitive man imagined, primal and awesome. Higher still, to where the air was cold in summer and snow lay in a content blanket, on the Scottish peaks. With a gentle incline on the broom handle, Severus brought them lower, to softly land on a grassy outcropping.

"Severus, I could never have imagined in my dreams what you have shown me this morning. I can't describe my feelings. Thank you for your gift," whispered Phaelan, afraid to spoil the wonder she felt.

"The gift is not mine to give, Phaelan, but to beg of you," Severus began.

Phaelan turned to look at him, not understanding.

Snape approached her and took her hands in his to begin a custom that once was practiced by Wizard and Muggle alike, but had been honed with time to be the Magic world's alone.

"Phaelan Anya Sophia McKenzie, I have come to know you and find favour in your company. You challenge my beliefs and cause me to question that which I and others have complacently accepted. You have refreshed my world and re-opened paths long ago thought to have been conquered. Your laughter is music to me, your voice sooths me. Your scent entices me; your presence excites me. I find you lovelier, more courageous and more desirable than any woman I know."

At this Snape reached into his robes and withdrew a rectangular shaped box.

"Phaelan, with the blessings of our governor, Albus Dumbledore, I ask thee, will you speak to me as you speak to no other man? Will you see me with eyes open, yet closed to any other man? Will you receive my gifts as I honour you? Will you accept me as your protector and courtier? Speak, and I will forswear any woman save you and ask nothing, if your heart should falter in our courtship. I speak to the elements that they may witness my truth. Speak now, Phaelan, and give me life, I pray thee." Snape was breathless and frightened as he finished his entreaty. What would her answer be?

Phaelan looked back to the encounters with this man. She remembered the intellectual beauty of his mind and the passion of his kisses. How easily he could have had her in his bed, if lust were just his only motive. Could any other man move her as he had? Closing her eyes, Phaelan made a leap of faith.

"Severus, all you ask and more I will give freely. If you will it, no other man will sway me, but if another woman should find your favour, I will release you from your oath, without consequence or regret." Phaelan hoped she got it right. "May the elements witness my truth."

Opening the box, Severus withdrew a silver pendant, on a long intricate chain, and placed it around Phaelan's neck. Holding the pendant in his hand, he explained its significance.

"This is the icon of my family. When others see you wear it, they will know you have my favour and protection. It grieves me that you cannot show it yet, as it will place our charade in jeopardy, but I have charmed it such, that if any should curse or hex you, it may be traced back to the wand. Wear it always under your clothes."

"It's beautiful, thank you Severus. I will treasure it always," Phaelan replied, as she looked at the pendant depicting a stylized 'S' formed by a snake winding about the tree of knowledge.

"I have no gift for you," she added, looking up at her dark courtier.

"You are the gift, Phaelan. I need no token to remind me of my fortune, when your words today are more than I had ever hoped to hear." He revealed his small smile to her again. "Remember this moment well, for I shall never likely speak so again. It is not in my character."

Taking a page from Severus' book from an earlier evening, Phaelan smiled at him and quoted,

"So many words go unspoken
As we linger here in the dark.
Trying to find a way to let the other know
How wonderful life is here together, silent in the dark."

She reached out to touch his face. "We can't ruin your reputation, by letting your students see what a romantic you are. I will miss your smiles, but you will see me differently as well. Phaelan, the teacher and drill sergeant; not the lady you pay court to."

"I've been on the receiving end of that other persona, as I recall." Snape drawled. "Now, turn and look at your sunrise." He ended, turning and pulling her back against him, before enclosing her in his arms.

Phaelan watched the first pink of morning appear, followed by golden rays of sunlight. They stood in silence, until the sun was above the horizon, when Phaelan broke their reverie.

"The dawn is always perfect; creation born anew each day. I always feel cleansed when I witness sunrise. Thank you for sharing this one with me." Phaelan filled with emotion, could speak no more.

Reaching out for her hand, Snape indicated it was time to leave. Smiling, Phaelan confidently sat astride the broom in front of him and lightly kicked off when Snape did. Feeling her comfort in his arms, Severus went faster and flew over Hogsmeade, making a wide arc over the Forbidden Forest. Coming low over the loch, Severus pulled up into a steep climb, to pass over the school and circle the Quidditch pitch. Phaelan began to laugh, she couldn't remember such sheer happiness ever. When suddenly behind her, Snape joined in her laughter, Phaelan knew this day was perfect. Nothing could possibly match the pure joy she heard in his laugh and as they touched down, Phaelan turned to kiss him while the laughter was still on his lips. Holding her closely, Severus returned her kiss, knowing no other man would share her joy this way.

Neither spoke, as they returned to the castle for breakfast. As they took their seats for the last time at the round table, Phaelan and Severus gave no clue to what had transpired that morning. When the Headmaster joined them, he only glanced briefly in their direction.

Smiling to himself, Dumbledore decided to let them know he understood. "It was a glorious sunrise this morning. It must have been wonderful to behold; a perfect start for a perfect day." He turned his head slightly and cocked an eye brow in the direction of the couple.

"Yes, yes it was," replied Phaelan, with a small smile.

"Indeed," responded Severus, as his knee touched Phaelan's under the table.


!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Platform 9 ¾ was as crowded as usual, with the students boarding the Hogwarts express. Hermione had been awarded Head girl for the upper sixth and Ron was once more a Prefect, as was Ginny. This left Harry the odd man out from his friends, but unlike past years he didn't feel bad, as Remus Lupin was returning as one of two DADA teachers. Kingsley Shacklebolt was assigned to teach advanced classes and would fill in when Lupin was incapacitated. The three found a compartment and settled in.

"Any room?" asked Neville Longbottom, sticking his head in the door to look at Harry.

"Come along Neville, "welcomed Lupin. "and who's with you?"

Seamus Finnegan and Luna Lovegood followed Neville into the compartment, now full.

They talked of their summer adventures and Harry's party, laughing at the antics of their friends in the Muggle house.

"So Harry, what did you do with the Wizarding fire works Fred and George left behind?" asked Seamus.

"What fireworks?" asked Harry, now decidedly uncomfortable.

"They said they left them under your bed. Did you bring them with you?" Seamus asked innocently.

Lupin looked at Harry and raised his eyebrow in a silent question.

"Um, no Seamus, I didn't bring them. I, ah, I didn't know they were there," answered Harry.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"What a surprise for Dudders when he comes back for Christmas, Vernon. His very own television salon; just think, he might be entertaining young women, soon." Petunia Dursley was in her element. Providing every possible comfort for her corpulent offspring was her greatest joy.

"Yes," wheezed Vernon. "I look forward to entertaining the lovely young conquests my son will invite home. I expect only the finest young ladies will even notice his finer qualities, his keen intellect."

The Dursleys had decided to begin renovation on the room as soon as Harry was at school, as it had been made clear they would no longer be responsible for his safety, after the summer. The furniture of course would be thrown out as rubbish (which was where they found most of it anyway) and the walls and floor refurbished.

As Vernon tried to move the bed frame, he encountered unexpected resistance. Bending down, he saw a box, which he promptly pulled out. On the side, he saw the label, Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes.

"I'm through with all this Wizarding nonsense," declared Uncle Vernon, as he tore open the top of the box. The combination of the rough handling and exposure to air, began an explosive chain reaction. There was a sudden whistling of a roman candle, followed by the bang of rockets heard through out the house.

Vernon, holding his arms over his head, tried to run downstairs, only to fall. Petunia, hearing the explosions ran into the hall.

"Argh, Vernon, what's happening?" cried Petunia, as she watched in disbelief, as the fireworks lit up her back bedroom.

"Bloody wizards!" yelled Vernon, "Call my solicitor; I'm suing the little bugger."

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Move along, you little snots." Called Head Boy, Draco Malfoy, as the train pulled into Hogsmeade station to unload the student body. "First years, find the hairy giant and hope he doesn't drown you on the way to school."

"Draco, shut your filthy mouth and have some respect for Hagrid, " hissed Hermione.

"Respect for that? He almost killed me third year. I'd as soon respect you, Mudblood, and you've turned out a damn sight better looking than him." Draco leered at her.

A junior version of his father, Draco had let his hair grow over the past three years and it now lay in corn silk strands over his shoulders. For a young man, Draco could be called beautiful; cruel, dangerous and beautiful.

"Back off, Malfoy, you can loose that pin as fast as your father paid for it," threatened Ron.

"Yeah, right, Weasley. Paid for, something your family knows nothing about," snorted Malfoy.

"Leave it, Ron; we've got a job to do. Come on, Ginny." Hermione pulled her friends away to see to the rest of the students arriving. "Some of us understand duty and loyalty to our school," she spat, as she walked away.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Phaelan had spent the rest of the day checking her classroom. Professor Flitwick and the Headmaster, had helped her transform the old traditional furnishings, into something quite different. She was looking forward to seeing the looks on the faces of her students. The meeting with Fudge was set for two days hence and Phaelan was quite prepared to defend her rebuttals offered on the exam paper. Now, she had to prepare for the students arriving.

Returning to her rooms after a lunch eaten in the staff lounge, where she met the remaining staff returning from vacation, Phaelan had decided on a bath to relax. Humming softly to herself, she went to her portrait entrance. The lady had a strange smile on her face, as Phaelan made to enter. As soon as she stepped inside, she found Polly puttering around.

"Polly, what are you doing?" Phaelan watched bemused as the little elf moved her clothing around.

"Polly is a ladies elf, Miss; Polly needs organization to do her job properly," offered the little creature, as Phaelan's underwear went flying from one drawer to another. "Polly has drawn your bath, Miss, and will fix your hair." Polly finished with a giant smile, before shooing Phaelan into the bathroom.

Later, Phaelan stepped out of the bath and wrapped herself in a terry bathrobe. Stepping back into the bedroom, Phaelan found some parcels on her bed. As she began to open them, Polly appeared before her.

"You is very lucky, Miss. Professor Snape is a fine gentleman courtier," said the elf cryptically.

Phaelan continued to open the boxes, to find the scholar's gown she had seen while in Madam Malkins, along with the appropriate undergarments. A pair of dress boots made, in leather she couldn't identify, along with the belt and purse to accessorize to dress. Lastly, she found a cap and over robe, to be worn with the dress.

"A letter, Miss, from he who courts you," said Polly formally, as she held out a scroll tied with a green cord.

Phaelan opened it and read,

"My Fair Lady Phaelan,

Upon receiving this missive, you will understand the purpose of the elves in this morning's rite. Our communication needs must be discrete, for obvious reasons. Polly and Dobby, have taken the oath to safeguard our secret courtship. You may trust them implicitly.

You have found the gifts I offer as a token of my admiration for you. This too must remain anonymous to others, save us. Accept them Phaelan, for by now I know you are thinking that they far exceed what is acceptable. Know this, had our situation been otherwise, these tokens would be nothing in comparison to what I would offer.

This evening, I will escort you to dinner in the great hall as a full professor of Hogwarts and the students will see us and know of my esteem towards you. This will offer some protection of your person. The students of my own house, Slytherin, will have heard some tales from their parents of our relationship and will speculate. Fear not, I will quickly disabuse the notions of any who think to disparage you in public.

Our game is afoot Phaelan, we must play it well. Until this evening,

Ever yours

Severus."

Looking around her at the gifts he had sent, Phaelan wondered at the man she had accepted a formal courtship from. He was right, there was a game to play; a dangerous one at that, for each of them. She began to see where a courtship would offer her more protection than just a professional relationship and silently thanked his foresight.

"Well Polly, time to dress I guess," decided Phaelan, as she rose to let the little elf fuss around her, so obviously happy in her task.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"It went well Severus?" asked Dumbledore, as he and Snape sat in his office sipping brandy before the fireplace.

Sitting quietly for a moment, letting the dawns events flit through his mind, Severus took a deep breath and answered, "It went well."

"Won't let me even enjoy it vicariously even slightly, will you?" teased the Headmaster.

"No. You get quite enough control in my life as it is. This I will not share." Snape replied in a tone that would send students scurrying for cover.

"Well then, I shall ask Phaelan how her morning was, shall I?" Dumbledore regarded the man opposite over his spectacles.

"You can try; she's on to you, you know," drawled Snape.

Dumbledore laughed. "Come along son, it's time we got ready to greet our pupils for the coming year."

"Yes, another year of supercilious, underachieving dunderheads too spoiled to wipe their own arses," Snape snarled, downing the rest of the brandy in his glass.

"Severus, you are far too harsh. There are always bright sparks, in the sea of stars. You just need to look," argued Dumbledore, in his annual debate on the students, as he led the way out of his office.

"You'll pardon me if I protect myself from your sparks, as they are usually emanating from an exploding cauldron in my classroom," replied Snape, as he walked down the stairs to follow.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Phaelan looked at herself in the mirror, not quite believing the person was her. Polly had created a complex French braid for her hair and had perched the sherry gold coloured round cap, so that it looked like a halo.

"Miss is not a witch and so cannot wear the pointed hat, but this is matching your robe perfectly. After all, ladies must wear a hat." Polly lectured as she went.

"Here you are, Miss," Said Polly, holding out the Sherry gold over robes.

Putting her arms through the sleeves, Phaelan noticed the shirring on the upper sleeve that held the length to her elbow, while allowing the rest to trail to the hem of the robe. The transformation was complete. There was nothing remotely twentieth century about Phaelan's dress this evening. She was completely in her new world. Taking a deep breath, Phaelan made her way to the door.

"Wish me luck, Polly," she called.

"Miss doesn't need luck. Miss has Master Snape and he is the bravest master I know." Polly nodded sagely as she watched her lady leave.

Phaelan walked to the staff room to meet her colleagues. On her way, she met Sir Nick, who bowed deeply to her, loosing his head as usual. He put his head back in place.

"My lady, thou art most fair this evening. May I escort you to the Great Hall? You would do me great honour to be seen at my side."

"Sorry Nick, I'm spoken for. Thanks for the offer," Phaelan replied to the spectre.

"Alas is me, that another has such good fortune. A pleasant adieu, my Lady; my house waits," the ghost answered, flying off to the Gryffindor tower.

Taking a deep breath, Phaelan opened the door to the staff room and entered. So quiet was she, no one noticed her at first and she hoped that she had come in under the radar, so to speak. It was not to be.

"Phaelan, my dear, you look radiant this evening. The students will be entranced," called Dumbledore in his best stage voice.

Now, every eye was upon her, taking in her garb. Phaelan smiled self consciously, as others whispered small compliments when she passed. Walking to the small bar at the side, she realized she had not seen Severus. Suddenly, from behind her, she heard his voice.

"I think I should be prepared for challenge this evening," Snape uttered in a voice, for her alone. "One look at you, and every upper sixth male will be casting their mantle to find favour with you."

"The gown is beautiful. Thank you. I'm surprised you remembered." She turned and looked into his dark eyes.

"I bought the gown the same day we visited Malkins, Phaelan; as soon as you had been fitted." He smirked at the shocked look on her face and mouthed, "Surprise."

The teachers began to make their way to the Great Hall, as the students tumbled through the front doors. Minerva and Severus held back with Phaelan.

"Are you ready?" Severus asked.

"I've faced down rioting zealots and felt less afraid than I do now," Phaelan replied. "I'm ready."

Walking in behind the last of the students entering the Great Hall, Severus with Phaelan on his left arm strode down the centre aisle; Gryffindor on one side and Slytherin on the other. Her appearance on his arm, caused hushed whispers as they passed. Looking to the side, Phaelan noticed Harry, Ron, Hermione and Ginny, from Grimmauld Place. She smiled her recognition and was met with smiles back, much to her comfort. Stepping up to the long head table, Phaelan waited until Severus pulled out her chair to sit and then take his place beside her.

"Psssst. Draco," hissed Pansy Parkinson, "Who's that?" she demanded, knowing Draco's father would have told him any gossip pertaining to their house master.

"Professor Snape's little distraction, " Draco drawled. "Our new Muggle studies teacher."
He could say no more, as Professor McGonagall was leading in the first years.

Phaelan sat bemused, watching the sorting process controlled by the Hat.

"It's psychological profiling, actually," explained Snape. "Or, if you will, family tradition as only children of Slytherin's, are sorted into Slytherin for the most part."

Phaelan sat wondering where Snape had heard of psychological profiling, when she realized, all the first years had been seated and the Headmaster had stood to speak.

"Welcome back to Hogwarts for another year of exciting study. Your professors have been eagerly preparing for your return and look forward to greeting you all, personally." The old man beamed down on the assembly, who were tittering and whispering to themselves. Snape appeared to be experiencing dyspepsia after Dumbledore's words.

"We are pleased to welcome some new faces to our faculty. Professor Remus Lupin is returning to teach Defence Against the Dark Arts, in partnership with Auror Kingsley Shacklebolt. Between them, I'm sure we'll have a fine program." As he indicated them with a sweep of his arm, Lupin and Shacklebolt stood to be recognized with a smattering of applause.

"Professor Phaelan McKenzie, is joining us as Professor of Muggle studies or as she's chosen to rename it 'The Modern history and social studies of the non-wizarding world.' Having only recently joined us from America, Professor McKenzie has some interesting perspectives to share with you, as she has already done with our Minister of Magic Cornelius Fudge, who has taken an interest in her ideas." Smiling at her as he turned to recognize her, Dumbledore indicated she should stand. As she stood, Phaelan was greeted with loud applause from the male portions of the assembly, with a few anonymous wolf whistles, which Snape silenced as he stood up beside her.

Dumbledore turned again to the students. "Oh, I had almost forgotten. I would ask you offer the utmost courtesy, to Miss McKenzie, as our young American professor is not a witch. Our new professor is a Muggle. If there is any incidence where a curse or hex is cast upon her, it will be dealt with as assault and could result in possible expulsion," advised the Headmaster, uncommonly serious in his tone.

"Now, as always, the Forbidden Forest is Forbidden to all and I repeat, ALL students. Mr Filch, our caretaker, has expanded his list of forbidden objects to three pages, therefore in an effort to expedite your reading, everything from Weasleys Wizarding Wheezes and Zonko's Joke shop is forbidden." Dumbledore looked over his glasses at the now groaning students.

"Now, let the Feast begin." And with a wave of his hand the long tables were laden with platters of food, which began to disappear under the hands of the students.

"Are you ready to make your debut, Professor?" asked Professor Sprout, sitting to her left.

"I'm terrified, but I figure I'd best not show it to them." She indicated the students. "Then I'd really be in trouble."

"You've got it, never let them see you sweat and you'll be fine. Just keep a bottle of your favourite spirit handy the first week." Sprout patted Phaelan's hand.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Much later, after the students were in their dorms, Phaelan sat with Severus on the plush carpet in front of his fire.

"So you'd planned this courtship thing for a while, Severus?" asked Phaelan, while looking at the flickering flames.

"I've given it careful consideration for a while, it's true. I was not sure about when it would be appropriate to offer, but your proclivity towards a relationship bid me sooner rather than later," he replied, reaching out to touch the chain about her neck.

"I did tell you about my idea of equality, Severus. There was no mystery in what I thought about taking the lead in anything," she pointed out.

Suddenly, Phaelan found herself pinned beneath Severus on the carpet, his dark eyes intent upon her face.

"You will come to understand madam; no woman will ever lead me anywhere I choose not to go. I however will lead you to heights you have not yet seen and I will show you what it means to have a wizard as your lord." His velvet voice rippled across her senses, leaving her breathless.

"My Lord?" she asked, in a small voice.

Snape began kissing her jaw line up to her ear. "If you are my Lady, then I am your Lord and you will submit when I desire it."

"It seems to me, you did desire it and pushed me away. How am I to know when you're serious?" Phaelan asked as her breathing hitched when Severus gently bit her neck.

"You'll know. Now shut up and put your mouth to better use." He muttered as he captured her mouth in a deep kiss.

Phaelan closed her eyes and let her senses wander as he kissed, stroked and touched her face and neck. His kisses had started to wander lower to where her breasts had been pushed up by the boning of her dress. Phaelan stroked his back and hair, moaning when he found a new piece of skin not yet tasted.

Returning to kiss her ears Severus whispered, "Phaelan, my sweet Phaelan," in her ear driving shivers of desire down her spine as she arched her back to feel closer. His hand crept around to her back to begin unlacing the gown, while Phaelan raked her nails down his shirt clad back and up again under his shirt to leave red marks on his skin.

"Severus, please," Phaelan whispered, "Don't tease me. You know I want this."

"Are you protected? Can you become with child?" Severus pulled her head back and looked at her through hooded eyes.

"I use contraceptive pills, I'm protected," Phaelan replied.

Rising, he pulled her with him and picked her up. Just as they reached his bedroom entrance, a gong sounded through the chambers.

"What's that?" asked Phaelan.

"No! Not now," cried Snape. "There's trouble in the common room, I must go." He set her on her feet and strode to get his robes. "I don't know how long I'll be......"

"Never mind." She stepped forward and kissed him. "Don't be too cruel. I'll see you in the morning for breakfast." Phaelan walked to the fireplace to floo to her rooms.

She smiled just before she left, "Good night My Lord."

Snape groaned as she stepped into the flames, "That's the last time I listen to my fucking conscience about getting into her knickers." He turned and stormed off thinking to murder whoever interrupted him.



Poem recited by Phaelan.

So many words go unspoken
As we linger here in the dark.
Trying to find a way to let the other know
How wonderful life is here together silent in the dark.
Author: Andrew Loftis