Cat sighed deeply "There’s nothing to be done about it Lupy. I accepted the fact that some people will simply dislike me because I’m not human. There is nothing you or I or anyone else can do about it. I just wish it wasn’t Harry’s date, I don’t want to be the reason for them not working out. Its obvious how fond he is of her."

Remus patted her back gently as he felt her heave another deep sigh, trying to get her to brighten up he teased "You know. . .as much as I enjoy having you all to myself" he winked as she looked up at him "I can think of at least two men that would be sorely tempted to skin me alive if they walked in on us right now."

"Anyone so much as lays a finger on you and they’ll have to answer to me" Cat practically growled "I’m the only one who gets to beat on you" she added as Remus laughed. "Besides, I would think you’d be more concerned about what the students thought than the adults."

Remus laughed deeply "I already know what the students think" he squeezed her tightly as he explained "about half of them have made me out to be a tragically romantic figure, spurned by his true love due to his werewolf curse" he said dramatically "of the other half, well they’re pretty evenly divided. Part of them think you’re just looking for a good time, and the other part insist Severus has been slipping some sort of potion into your drinks at supper." He winked at her playfully "Personally, I’m siding with that last one, makes the most sense to me."

"Very funny Lupy" Cat grimaced "you know there is a VERY easy way to put all those rumors to rest, don’t you?" she reminded him as she looked into his hazel eyes, her own growing soft with emotion.

"Now Kitty, we’ve been through this before" Remus reminded her gently "as much as I wish I could, I would never risk your life again. I almost killed you last time, and its only gotten worse with age." he admitted as he felt Cat hugging him "I want you to live a long and happy life Kitty. I want to see you with a small brood of your own. . .although I wouldn’t have any objections to being a godfather" he hinted as she giggled at him. "That’s better, I want to hear you laughing tonight,. . .even if it is with Severus" he added, rolling his eyes.

"Hey, you, no complaints." she teased back "I’ve given you more than enough chances to change my mind, you furry little brat" she added as she stuck out her tongue at him as he laughed and shook his head.

Sirius closed his eyes tightly as he watched Remus and Cat teasing each other, at least their friendship had endured. In fact it seemed as strong as ever, Cat still relied on Remus to be her rock, and Remus clung to Cat, knowing she would always be there to support and comfort him no matter what. As hard as it was for him to watch them hold onto each other, he had learned a long time ago not to be jealous of them. After all, Remus loved her just as much as he did, so much so in fact that he had willingly given her up to protect her from his curse. He simply wished he could join them, he needed to feel the touch of another person as much as Remus did. He needed to know Cat would accept him the same way she did Remus. Sirius felt a sob catch in his throat, he needed to get some fresh air before he lost his head and did something unforgivably stupid.. . .

Severus perked up the moment he saw Potter and his friends enter the hall, he noticed the concerned look on Harry’s face immediately. Scowling at the thought of what could have happened to make Harry look like that, and the fact that Catri was not with him, Severus quickly made his way to the group of friends.

"Mr. Potter" Severus said, pronouncing each syllable very clearly "may I ask were Miss MacLeod is? I thought she would be accompanying you here. Has something . . . .happened?" he asked anxiously.

"Professor Snape" Harry felt almost happy to see him, if nothing else his presence help to relieve the awkward silence following Cho’s comments about Cat’s heritage. "No, nothing’s happened. Mum’s out in the hall talking to Professor Lupin, he wanted to take some pictures for the album." Harry was almost positive he saw a small smile flit across Snape’s lips. "She should be in soon? Do you want me to get her?" he asked, looking for an excuse to talk to Cat in private about Cho’s reaction to her.

Severus seemed surprised that Harry would be so willing to bring Catri to him, she had mentioned she intended to speak to Harry about her feelings, but he certainly hadn’t expected him to respond so eagerly to the news. "Thank you, Mr. Potter, but no, I am sure she will be in shortly." Severus stepped aside and allowed the students to walk past him and find their table.

"That proves my point Harry" Cho whispered "she’s enchanted him with her magic. How else can you explain him suddenly acting so nice?"

Hermione felt Ron squeeze her hand as she opened her mouth "Don’t do it Hermione" Ron whispered "its his mum and his girlfriend" he whispered lowly.

"Maybe he’s in love with her" Ginny stated simply as she ignored the glare Ron had just given to Hermione "people always behave nicely when they’re in love."

Cho shook her head "Snape would need a heart to fall in love, we all know he doesn’t have one of those. Unless you count the ones he keeps in jars on the storage shelves."

Ron chortled as Hermione sighed, she was no fan of Professor Snape’s, but Cat certainly wasn’t doing anything to make him fall in love with her "Isn’t that a bit harsh Cho? Even he has a heart, I mean. . .just look at him, you can tell how much he cares about her." she said as she turned around to make her point, only to see the potion master right behind Cho, his eyes glittering angrily. Hermione felt herself go pale as she squeezed Ron’s hand tightly, causing him to yelp.

"Hermione, what are you doing? That huuuuurr. . . .Professor Snape" Ron choked as he went as red as Hermione had pale. ********

Harry froze for a moment before turning around to face the potion master, clearing his throat Harry spoke as clearly as possible "Yes Professor Snape? May I help you?"

Severus glared at Harry for a split second before returning his icy gaze to Cho. "I was simply curious as to how Catri had reacted to Miss Chang. Obviously it no longer matters, I doubt she would tolerate her lack of manners for any length of time." he could feel the young girl shrink under his gaze. He took a step closer to her just to watch her squirm "There are very few things Miss MacLeod finds intolerable, bad manners and prejudice, however, are quite high on a very short list." Returning his gaze to Harry, he softened his voice slightly "I *hope* you will keep that in mind Mr. Potter" so saying, he turned quickly and walked towards the doorway leading into the corridor.

As Severus muttered under his breath, he hoped desperately that Chang hadn’t ruined Catri’s good mood. She was so looking forward to meeting the girl, she had spoken about it constantly over the past week. Catri was hoping they would get along as well as she and the Weasley girl did. Severus sighed deeply, there certainly did not seem to be much of a chance of that happening if the girl had conducted herself in that manner in front of Catri.

Severus relaxed slightly as he heard Catri’s musical laughter ringing through the corridor, apparently it had not gone as badly as he had feared. He grimaced as he also heard Lupin’s laugh alongside Catri’s. "Fabulous" he sighed "just what I needed, a threesome" He straightened his formal robes as he walked towards the corridor, only to pause as he heard her approaching. Trying not to look overly anxious, Severus quickly found a spot near Flitwick, and was about to strike up a conversation when he caught sight of Catri.

Severus could feel a fever rising within him as he looked at her. Her beauty was simply indescribable. He felt his knees go weak as he watched her walk in, her long, soft hair was piled loosely on top of her head with several long tendrils dangling over her shoulders, caressing her porcelain skin. He felt himself turn bright red as his eyes lingered momentarily on her bust as his thoughts ran wild. Severus quickly diverted his eyes and his mind as he adjusted the collar of his shirt, it had suddenly begun to feel very constricting to him.

Severus watched intently as Remus escorted her into the hall, walking up to them, Severus extended his hand to Catri "My dear" he cleared his throat as he tried to calm his quivering voice "My dear, you look enchanting" he smiled happily as Catri placed her hand in his, a warm and tender smile on her face "for you" he added as he produced a perfectly formed white rose from under his cloak.

Severus could feel the longing of too many years in his heart as Catri allowed him to place the flower into her hair, gently pressing her body against him as he did so. Severus felt both anxious and amazingly relaxed as Catri looked up at him, her beautiful emerald eyes meeting his own as a playful grin danced across her face. "Do not do it Catri" he warned teasingly as he saw her hands move towards his ribs, "not in front of the students" he winked as she pouted at him.

"Hmpft, some fun you are" Cat said as she continued to pout, hoping she could get Severus to lighten up and play along. Judging by the look on his face, the idea wasn’t out of the question.

Severus finished fixing the rose in Catri’s hair, placing his finger under her chin, he tilted her head so he could look into her eyes. "My dearest Catri" he said softly, almost purring "I can be a great deal of fun, . . .but not here" he glanced towards the throng of students "I am a private person, you know that." he added as he brushed his thumb over her lower lip, savoring the softness of her full lips.

"I know" Cat replied softly "it’s too bad though, if you weren’t so ‘private’ I might just be tempted to kiss you here and now." she teased as she stood on her toes, as if to kiss him anyway. She was a bit surprised when he didn’t move away, as if he really didn’t care what the students would say.

"I am relieved to see you are still smiling, I was afraid spending the day with your students would wear you out." Turning towards Harry and his friends, Severus motioned towards Hermione and Ginny "Your handy work I assume?" he grinned when he saw Catri smile and blush "I thought as much, it is a pity Miss Chang did not ask for your assistance. She is being sadly out shown by your Gryffindors" he noticed the twinkle in Catri’s eye as he mentioned the students "The Weasley girl. . . .her dress, it is not from *this* world is it?"

"Now Severus, don’t start" Cat warned gently "Her brother’s ruined her only good dress, the poor dear was crying her eyes out in one of the empty classrooms, I couldn’t just ignore her"

"That would be a yes" Severus smirked as Catri rolled her eyes dramatically

"Severus" Catri purred, the tone in her voice a clear warning against pushing the matter.

"Very well Catri" he replied as he placed an arm around her slender waist and guided her towards their table, as he nodded a pointed good bye to Lupin "I will not bring it up anymore tonight. I simply do not want you to give the Ministry any reason to interrogate you, or the students." he explained quietly as he pulled out her chair, nodding politely at Minerva and Flitwick. Whispering in her ear he added "However I am overjoyed that you are wearing my gift" he told her as he quickly kissed her cheek.

Harry was keeping a very close eye on Snape, he still couldn’t believe Cat had chosen him over Sirius, it just didn’t seem right. Harry scanned the hall and noticed Dumbledore and Remus watching Snape and Cat just as intensely as he had been. "I wonder what the two of them have in mind?"

"The two of who Harry?" Cho asked "MacLeod and Snape?" she turned to look at them "It seems pretty obvious, don’t you think?"

Harry felt the most amazing sensation of having his blood run cold at the mere thought of his mum and Snape doing anything together, and having his blood boil over that someone was even suggesting such a thing. "No. . .I don’t think. Snape’s been chasing her since the day Hagrid brought her here. There is nothing different about tonight, he’s just dressed better than usual." Harry snapped.

Cho noticed the strained look on Harry’s face and decided to change the topic "I really like your new robes Harry. You look very handsome, they really bring out your eyes."

Harry smiled weakly "Thanks, mum got it when she bought her gown" the silence that followed was awkward at best.

Ron and Hermione cast worried glances at Harry and Cho, this wasn’t going as well as everyone had thought it would. Hermione sighed loudly, which unfortunately caught Ginny and Neville’s attention.

"Is something wrong?" Ginny asked "Harry, its not about Professor Snape again is it? I know you’re not very fond of him, but. . . .well, look at them."

"Yes Potter, look at them" a snide voice said from behind Harry "Slytherin’s head of house seducing the Sidhe b****" Draco laughed cruelly as Harry flushed red with anger.

"Shut up Malfoy" Harry warned "You don’t have any idea of what you’re talking about. "

Cho placed her hand on Harry’s shoulder as Ron stood up defensively; ready to help Harry at a moments notice. Hermione groaned as she saw all the boys’ hands on their wands, knowing Harry and Ron wouldn’t be able to take on Malfoy, Goyle and Crabbe at once. Luckily before anything progresses a loud, booming voice was heard.

"Ere then. Wats all this s’about?" Hagrid asked as he narrowed his eyes at the Slytherins "Wouldn’t ave anything t’do wit tha nasty stare Prof’ser Snape is givin, would it?" he asked as he crossed his massive arms over his chest, waiting for someone to answer.

"Severus? What is it?" Catri asked softly as she placed her warm hand on his cheek "Do I need to help Hagrid with anything?"

"No, I doubt that will be necessary." Severus said quickly, narrowing his eyes at the three Slytherins "They would never be idiotic enough to do anything here, far too many witnesses"

"Lovely" Cat said dryly, "so glad the Malfoy name lives on. . ." she hesitated when she saw the shadow pass over the potion masters face "What is it Sev?"

Severus shook his head sadly "Draco Malfoy, he has an amazing talent for potions. He is intelligent and has a chance at a good life, but his father’s influence will destroy any chance for happiness the boy has. He’s been raised to have a thirst for power and cruelty." He paused when he felt Catri’s hand resting on his arm, reassuring him he was not alone.

"You survived Sev" she whispered "and more to the point, you broke the cycle. You learned to care for others, you stood up to your father, made him stop." she squeezed his arm gently as he smiled and placed his hand on hers "You can’t keep reliving the horrors of your past Sev. Help Draco if you can, if he will allow you too, but don’t tie your soul to his. . .you may well drown."

Josh ran through the doors and burst into Prince Julian’s study, disrupting his conclave meeting with the Primogen’s of several other clans. He skidded to a halt as he felt their eyes and their fury centered on him. Prince Julian glared at him as he approached Josh.

"Joshua, my childe, I expect there is an excellent reason for your complete lack of respect?" he asked, as his eyes glowed dangerously, more with annoyance than actual anger.

"Forgive me my prince" Josh pleaded as he dropped to his knee and kissed the ring on Julian’s hand "but I have important news, and an urgent request from Cash of Clan Gangrel"

"Gangrel" snorted Antonio, Primogen of the Clan Brujah "can’t the mongrel handle anything himself? Or must he send whelps to beg a prince’s aid."

Josh felt himself fill with anger, but said nothing, preferring to trust in his prince. "It regards the Angel, my prince." he said simply. Joshua cringed as he felt the presence of Daedelus immediately fill the room. Everyone knew of the Nosferatu Primogen’s fondness for the Angel, they could be seen walking together night after night in the prince’s garden. Discussing philosophy, art, politics even rock bands, all of the kindred had been amazed at the willingness of the lovely Angel to accept the cursed Nosferatu. And the Nosferatu loved her dearly for her kindness, killing her enemies without mercy or thought.

"Julian?" Daedelus asked, his voice soft and deep "If this concerns Angel, it concerns us all. Let the childer speak. The Camarilla would know of her need" he insisted as the Primogens of Clans Gangrel, Toreador, Ventrue agreed with the Nosferatu Primogen.

Julian nodded to Joshua, who nervously rose to his feet, artfully avoiding the Nosferatu’s penetrating gaze "The Angel is in peril, the Tremere are on their way to her as we speak" Josh cringed as he felt the sudden anger pouring from Daedelus, he stood silently as his prince walked between himself and the ancient Nosferatu Primogen. Waiting until the presence of the searing anger faded, Josh continued "Cash is certain they will attack at Angel’s heart first, as they have always done. But in this case, Cash fears it may well kill her, or worse. . .he is frightened. She may go mad if they harm the boy, she has the ability to kill a great many if that happens, both human and kindred alike, only her own Clan is safe from her wrath"

Daedelus frowned, he detested the idea of anyone harming his Angel, but he needed to understand if he was going to be able to protect her "if they harm the boy? What boy?" he waited for Joshua to respond "Are you ignoring me childe? I asked you a question, what boy?"

"Daedelus, may I speak with you" Prince Julian asked softly, motioning for the Nosferatu to join him in a corner of the room. Julian hated to break such important news in such a brusk fashion, but it was better Daedelus know before the rest of the conclave "I am sorry my friend, I had hope to find a kinder way to tell you this. But the boy the childer refers to is Angel’s son, that is the true reason she left us. Her son needed her, and she went to him, as any good mother would." Julian placed his hand on Daedelus’s arm, attempting to comfort his fellow Kindred "Daedelus, you knew from the beginning she was never meant for your clan. You told me so yourself, you swore to me you would never again try to embrace her as a Nosferatu. You swore upon your eternal soul that you wished only to protect her and share in her kindness."

Daedelus nodded numbly "And I still swear this to you. It was a moment of weakness on my part, one that nearly killed her. I am just surprised to hear she has a child, I thought she would have told me of him. We talked a great deal, we shared our secrets. . ."

"I only found out when she felt his pain." Julian admitted "I was with her when his fear and pain overwhelmed her. He was being attacked by a wizard, he was being cut for sacrifice. The horror of it almost drove her mad." Julian shook his head and shivered slightly as the memory seared his mind yet again. It had taken several Ventrue and Gangrel to hold her down, to stop her from destroying everything in her path, it was then that Cash had explained what Angel truly was, what she was capable of. They had both left the next evening, they had gone to their home, to find Angel’s son, to protect and comfort him.

Harry smiled shyly as he and Cho walked to the dance floor. He had been waiting for this for weeks, all of the lessons with his mum were finally going to pay off. He was thankful Hagrid had shown up when he did, although he noticed Snape and Cat watching every move, waiting to intercede should it become necessary. He had also noticed Cash watching from an outside window, he could only imagine what Cash would do to Draco after tonight. Now if only they could avoid bringing up Cat in conversation the evening should go smoothly. He just couldn’t understand why Cho was so cold towards Cat, she was usually so friendly. "So? You ready?" Harry asked as Cho faced him and smiled sweetly, Harry felt his hands suddenly go cold and clammy as he gulped loudly.

Cho giggled as she saw how nervous Harry was, he really was cute, all though she had a hard time thinking of him the way she had Cedric. Cedric was handsome, passionate, strong; he just seemed more grown up than Harry did. Not that Harry didn’t have his good points; sweet, kind, cute and of course he was brave, no one could argue that. "Are you ready for the match against my house after the holidays?" she asked, trying to get Harry to relax a little "Because my team is looking phenomenal this year" she winked as he rolled his eyes.

"Phenomenal huh?" Harry teased "I’ll keep that in mind when I catch the Snitch" he winked as they both laughed. Harry felt himself relax immediately as his feet fell into the familiar pattern Cat had taught him, he was actually beginning to enjoy himself. He quickly looked over to Cat’s table and saw her smiling warmly at him. He smiled and winked back as he returned his attention to Cho. "Are you staying here over the holidays? Or are you going home?"

"Home, same as usual." she replied casually "I guess you’ll be staying here again, its too bad your Aunt and Uncle don’t understand magic like Hermione’s parents do." she added sadly.

Harry grinned widely "It doesn’t matter anymore, I’m spending the holidays with my clan. I’m finally going to meet my uncles and cousins and aunts and, and. . .everyone I guess."

Cho gave him a strange look, but remained quiet, she really didn’t want to be the one to tell Harry what Miss Cat MacLeod was really like. The rumors were all over the school, she wasn’t human at all, she was using some sort of spells to make herself look as if she were human, all so she could find a human man. Apparently she had chosen Snape, the whole school was waiting for him to disappear, she was going to drain his life force from him and then feed him to her demons. Unfortunately for Professor Snape, no one really seemed too upset over the idea, of course, if it had been Professor Lupin,. . . Cho thought.

Severus sighed as he rose from his seat, "Time to chaperon I am afraid" he said as he looked pointedly to a darkened corner. "However, I do expect at least one dance with you tonight my dear." he added as he smiled tenderly at Catri. As Severus strode toward the corner, his mind wandered back to the comment Miss Granger had made, he was still somewhat surprised and mildly pleased that a Gryffindor student had actually risen to his defense. It was certainly a new experience for him, the only people he had ever known to defend him had been Catri and Lily, and that had been so many years ago.

Pulling out his wand, Severus aimed it at the dark corner were he could clearly hear Seamus Harper and his on again, off again girlfriend, Jamie Krafty panted breathes.

Whispering "Lumos" Severus lit the corner in the soft light of his wand. He stood there watching as Seamus passionately kissed Jamie, his hand wandering over her waist and coming to rest on her backside, as he gave her pert fanny a hard squeeze, causing Jamie to press even closer against him. Severus glared at the young couple, as they continued their romance, completely unaware of the professor’s presence. Severus could feel his own passion begin to rise as he imagined himself and Catri in a similar situation. Shaking the thoughts out of his head, he took careful aim and sent a mild jolt of electricity into the back of Mr. Harper’s thigh, causing the young man to yelp. Severus smirked as Harper turned around, as if he were ready to fight, until he realized exactly who had shocked him.

"Mr. Harper" Severus hissed "and Miss Krafty, 10 points each and detention. Learn to conduct yourselves with some grace and restraint. Now back to your tables" he waited for them to move, apparently they were both still quite shocked "immediately!" he added as Miss Krafty quickly grabbed Harper by his wrist and bolted to the relative safety of their friends.

"Wasn’t that a bit harsh Professor?" Catri hinted as she walked up behind Severus "They’re young and in love, a simple warning would have sufficed. Don‘t you remember what it was like when you were their age? Surely you strayed from the path every once in a while." she reminded him as she took his arm and walked with him to the courtyard. "I seem to remember hearing a story about a rather wild party in Slytherin, sometime around February." she waited until she saw the spark of memory within his eyes "complete with entertainment as the story goes. . ."

"Catri. . . I, . . I , . .that is to say" he stammered as he recalled the incident well "I am not exactly proud of that night. I doubt many of us are."

"You mean it was *true* ?" she asked as her eyes grew wide "I always thought it was some ridiculous rumor" Catri watched as Sev blushed deeply under her gaze "Severus Sebastian Snape" she said as she shook her head "who ever would have thought. . .you, a party animal." she teased as he hung his head and muttered under his breath.

Severus could feel his face turning crimson as Catri stared at him, he had no idea what to say. He was completely embarrassed, he had done things that night he would never dare confess to anyone, not even her. He felt his words catch in his throat, until he heard Catri giggling at his embarrassment. "Something funny?" he asked, his voice full of pain.

"I’m sorry Sev" Catri said as she stood on her toes and kissed his cheek "I didn’t mean to upset you, but its just so cute when you blush like that." she winked. Noticing he still seemed a bit tense, she added softly "But I have to admit, it gives me wicked ideas when you do." She smiled evilly as he quickly turned to stare at her, obviously not sure how serious she was. She leaned against him as they walked, the moment her body pressed against him, she felt the tension melt away.

"Any other *rumors* I should know about?" he asked playfully, relieved that she had just been teasing him. He still wasn’t used to being with someone who was so playful, he didn’t always know how to react to her teasing. Although he had noticed she had become far more gentle with her teasing, as if she understood his uncertainty. He removed his arm from hers and reached for her waist, pulling her close against himself as they stepped outside, into the cool air of the courtyard. He felt her shudder at the sudden chill "Perhaps we should go back Catri. You are hardly dressed for such cool weather."

"Not at all" Catri said as she snuggled against him "I’ll be fine in a moment or two. Just let me get used to it, that’s all." She felt Sev move behind her, wrapping himself around her as he timidly kissed her neck. Reaching for his cheek Catri moaned softly as his hot lips touched her chilled flesh once more, sending shivers down her spine.

Severus felt his heart aching as he held her, he had held onto his pain and anger for so long that her love and kindness were almost too much for him to bear. "I take it you wanted to speak with me Catri. Unless you had some other reason for coming out into the cold?" he asked softly as he pulled her closer, sharing his warmth with her.

"Actually I did want to talk to you Sev." she admitted as she placed her hand on his, they were resting on her belly. It reminded her for all the world of a father protecting his unborn child. Shaking the vision of being pregnant from her head, she continued "I’m hoping you can relax a little more around the students . . .I’m not asking you not to be strict, I understand better than most how dangerous potions can be. I’m just hoping you can be a bit less harsh next term." she paused waiting for him to argue, not hearing anything, she continued "We will have a few new students joining us next term. They are not used to be treated so. . .uhmm. . .severely. They’ve pretty much been home schooled"

"And you know these students personally?" he asked, becoming somewhat suspicious of her strange actions. "Is there something specific I should know about these students?"

"Yes, I know them all personally, they’re my family. . And as for knowing about them? Well, most of them no. But there is this one you might want to know about." Cat said nervously "She can be a bit of a handful, particularly around potions. . .seems she has this fascination with some of the colors." She felt his muscles tighten as she continued "She’s really very sweet, and cute, as long as she doesn’t get too angry."

"Ahh. So the temper is a family trait" Severus teased as he waited for Catri to continue, he had the distinct feeling he was not going to like this story.

"Very funny Professor" she smirked as she pressed herself into him even more, teasing his flesh with her softness and warmth "and you’ll like Sara, she‘s really very smart. She just has a bad habit of taste testing the bright potions, especially the blue and purple ones. . .she seems to be absolutely drawn to them."

"Lovely" Sev replied as he nuzzled closer to Catri, he knew she was trying to tempt him, her pressing against him like that was no accident "shall I keep her in the front, where I can keep a close eye on her?" he asked as he kissed her softly behind her ear, smiling happily as she giggled and squirmed in his arms.

"That may not be a bad idea" she laughed as she tried to pry herself out of his arms, he was a bit too willing to play along tonight, "just be careful, she didn’t exactly play nice with her last teacher. She transformed him into a cabbage, it took me hours to undo it, And don’t ever let that girl get near Sprite. . .I keep warning her about drinking anything named after a fairy, and I’m not even going to start on about those damn pixie stix." Catri felt a delicious shiver as Sev pulled her tightly against him, kissing the base of her neck as he did so.

"Sprite and pixie. ." Sev shook his head "this promises to be an interesting term" Sev sighed "and where do you think you are going Miss MacLeod?" he teased as he pressed his strong hands against her stomach, forcing her back into him "Please, please, do not tell me you intend to tease me like this *all* night long?" he asked as he kissed the back of her neck, thrilling as she gasped softly.

"What about the students Severus?" Cat asked she blushed, she really hadn’t expected him to call her bluff like that. It seemed he was full of surprises tonight, she wasn’t sure if should press her luck or not, he seemed more than willing to forgo his normal straight laced demeanour to play with her tonight, perhaps a life with him would not be as severe as she had feared.. . .

Leumadair swan against the current, flexing his strong muscular tail as the choppy waves crashed above him. Something was very wrong; the channel was never stormy for this long. Someone was interfering with his father’s domain, and that someone would be stopped. He had a terrible suspicion that it was related to the travellers he had helped at his cousin’s request. He had kept a very close watch on them, they should have reached England’s Southern coast within two maybe three days at most, and it had already been closer to a week. Rising above the waves, Leumadair quickly scanned the shore and immediately saw the cause of the storm. A small tribe of gypsies, the Roma, gathered around a pitiful camp as an old woman hurled curses out over the sea.

Gritting his teeth at the site of mortals daring to challenge his father’s realm, Leumadair quickly transformed into his human form. He rose completely out of the water, as the mist rising above the ocean closed in against him, turning to a fine chain mail the moment it contacted his skin. He walked over the waves as if he were walking through a field of grass, emerging dry as he stepped lightly onto the rocky shore. "Who dares to oppose Manannan Mac Lir, Ruler of the Waves, Elder of the Sidhe?" he roared as the ragged troupe of Roma cringed before him.

"I dare" croaked the old woman "I will not see all my work destroyed, my plans torn asunder, all for the sake of the Sidhe and their pathetic love of humans."

Leumadair regarded the old woman carefully, he had seen her somewhere before. "Fallon" he whispered as his eyes narrowed in on the old woman. "I’ve seen you in Fallons’ mind. You are her mother, the Roma known as Magda." he spoke clearly "You have tried to stop her from reaching my cousin, you have endangered her life and the lives of all who travel with her." Leumadair held out his hand as his sword appeared, it seemed to fly into his hand, as if it were part of him. "Why have you done this? Why do you visit your own people with this evil?" he asked as he pointed the tip of his sword at her.

Magda cackled insanely "They are no longer my people, they have turned their backs on us"

"You mean they’ve turned their backs on you" Leumadair corrected her "and rightfully so. You have murdered your own children to prolong your miserable life, hag. I have seen the horror in your daughters mind, I know why she fears you, and once she has reached my cousin, she will be beyond your meagre powers."

"Meager are they? Well they’ve brought you haven’t they?" Magda mocked as she hurled a blast of energy at Leumadair, who stood unflinchingly before her. She watched as the blast hit him full force on his chest, only to evaporate into nothingness the moment it touched the silvery chain mail.

Leumadair smirked at her "Did you really think you could challenge the Sidhe, children of the De Dannan? We have existed for thousands of years, we are nature herself, we cannot be destroyed, only forgotten." he told her calmly, only to turn his back on her and walk towards the sea "Your powers are almost gone now hag. You should never have tried to attack me. You have just sealed your peoples fate, Voldemort’s forces are hunting you, they will find you tomorrow. . ."

"NO" screamed a young woman "Please, no. . my children" she sobbed "please don’t let them kill my children. I’ve already lost my brother and sister, they joined Fallon. I staid behind for my husband and children, please. . ." she dropped to her knees and begged Leumadair to help them.

Leumadair paused for a moment, then walked towards the young woman, "I have seen your brother and sister, Erich and Elora" he watched as the sobbing woman nodded "I have heard them talking about you Leonora, they are worried for you and your children. It causes them much pain to be separated from their family." He looked up and saw her husband approaching them, a foul tempered brute by the look of him "If you swear your intentions are honourable towards Fallon and my cousin, I will take you to them" seeing her hesitate he added "Yes Leonora, your children as well." he smiled as she looked up at him gratefully.

"She won’t be going anywhere" her husband growled "she is my wife, and those are my children. They stay with me, we stay with Magda." He added as he grabbed his wife by her hair and pulled her roughly across the stony beach.

"Would you sacrifice our children for her?" Leonora cried "You heard him, you know her children have always disappeared, most of them have never been found, not even their bones. Would you have our children join hers?" Leonora pulled away from her husband, who was left with a handful of her hair in his meaty fist. "Look at her, she’s dying, she cannot defend us, she is leading us to the slaughter. If she dies, she intends to take us with her."

Leumadair calmly walked up behind Leonora, placing his hands on her arms he stated "She is right, Magda is dying, she is aging before your eyes. Her child Fallon has escaped her, and she must now pay for her crimes, the agreement she forged with Voldemort will be her undoing. Clan MacLeod does not look kindly on betrayers. Leonora, gather your children and come with me, I will return you to your true family."

All Leumadair saw was a flash of metal,. . . before he could react, Leonora’s husband had struck. Leumadair wrapped his arms around the woman as her body was thrust into his by the force of the blade. Her husband had run her through on his sword, piercing her chest and Leumadair’s in one motion.

The sea itself reacted to the violence, the waves rose up and the wind and lightening swirled around Leumadair, causing his long, silvery-white hair to billow around him like a halo. Gently laying Leonora down, he pulled the blade out of her chest and threw it into the waves. He looked down at his own chest and noticed a small wound and a great deal of blood. He heard Magda laughing evilly, she thought he was going to die no doubt. Wiping the blood with his fingers, he brought them to his mouth and tasted the blood "Roma" he said softly "it is her blood, not mine." He knelt beside the dying woman who was still begging him to save her children’s lives. "Hush woman, you are dying. I have promised you I would take you and your children to your family. I keep my word, but your clan’s days have been counted and numbered." He looked into her fawn brown eyes and saw only the love she bore for her children.

The thought of anyone wilfully killing so loving a creature was driving him wild with anger. Standing up, he raised his arms and sung out for La Llorona, the vengeful ghost of the water, the avenging spirit of a woman who had been scorned by her husband, she had lost her children and her life. Her sole purpose was to exact revenge upon all men who harmed their families; she killed them with her kiss. The sea behind Leumadair boiled as the slender figure of a woman was seen. She was draped in gauzy black, her face hidden by a veil, she looked for all the world like a bride in mourning, a bride in black.

She immediately bowed before Leumadair, weeping and moaning as she did so. He pointed toward Leonora’s husband and spoke clearly "He has murdered his wife, he will destroy his children. La Llorona, I charge you to take your vengeance against him, for this, her blood" so saying he raised his hand to her, showing the stains of the woman’s blood upon his fingers. "Take him, and bring her children to me." He turned to gaze down upon Leonora as the poor woman moaned pitifully, she was drowning in her own blood.

"I cannot save your life Leonora, I am not a healer. But I promised to save you and your children, I keep my word." So saying Leumadair gathered Leonora in his arms and kissed her, filling her with a small taste of his power. Her pain stopped almost the moment he touched his lips to hers. Picking her up off the rough stones, Leumadair carried her to the now calm sea, and once again kissed her, only this time it was more than a taste of his power. His kiss went deeply into her, flooding her body with his energy as he pulled her under the waves with him. He felt her body tense as she panicked, her eyes were now open and wide with fear. He held her tightly, keeping her under water as she felt a sharp pain begin behind each of her ears. Just as Leonora thought she couldn’t bear the pain any longer, it disappeared.

She looked to see Leumadair smiling at her, it took her a few moments to realize she wasn’t drowning. Leonora reached out to touch him, to make sure he was real, the moments she touched his warm cheek she knew what he had done. Leumadair moved away from her touch and motioned for her to look at him fully. She smiled shyly as she saw his muscular chest and abs, but gasped when she saw his equally muscular tail. Steeling herself, Leonora looked down at her own body, only to see her long skirts billowing around her own tail. She felt numb as she realized she was alive, but no longer human. She felt Leumadair wrap his arms around her as she trembled with awe and fear.

"Hush child" he said soothingly "there is nothing to fear, I have kept my word. You are safe, and soon your children will be too.". . . .

La Llorona’s eyes gleamed unnaturally beneath her veil, she had immediately honed in on the murderous husband. She glided across the uneven, stony shore as the man’s eyes grew wide with horror. Her movements were silent, in fact the only sounds that could be heard were the weeping of La Llorona, the crashing of the waves, and the terrified screams of her prey as he scrambled awkwardly over the loose stones and pebbles. Within moments, La Llorona’s blue-grey hand was upon his shoulder, easily pulling him towards her as his screams grew louder. She turned him roughly, making him face her as she trailed a bony finger over his lips. The man’s screams had turned into whimpers of fear as La Llorona lifted her black veil, revealing a drawn and mottled face. Her sunken eyes showed no emotion as she pressed her cold lips against his, forcing a deluge of sea water into his lungs as he struggled against her.

The Roma looked on in horror as they watched the man twitch and gag as La Llorona pushed her kiss deeper into him. His eyes rolled up into his head as his face took on a bluish tinge, soon the only sign of life was the twitching of his fingers and the salty froth spilling from his mouth. La Llorona dropped the man with a heavy thud as she lowered her veil once more. Turning to survey the Roma, she quickly focused on Leonora’s young children. Weeping and moaning, she glided towards them, beckoning them with her skeletal hands. The children seemed mesmerized as they walked willingly towards La Llorona, placing their tiny, trusting hands in hers. Not one of the Roma moved to stop her as she walked with them towards the sea.

Leumadair gently pulled Leonora to the surface, allowing her to rest against him until she grew accustom to using her tail. He pointed out her children as they waited with La Llorona, the waves crashing around their small bodies as the spirit held their hands tightly. "I have given you a taste of my essence, my soul. Now it is your turn to share my gift with your children." . . .

"And your point would be" Severus asked completely confused by what Catri was trying to tell him.

"Well you’re not exactly the ‘I like a dirty joke as much as the next guy sort of fellow’ That really cuts down on my material, you would be the sort to tell me how unladylike it is" Catri replied, doing her best to keep a straight face as Severus’s eyes grew large. She could tell he was trying not to laugh at what she had said.

Shaking his finger at her, Severus responded "It *is* very unladylike, and you know it" he said as sternly as he could, although he had a feeling it was less than convincing.

Catri brought her hand to her brow and pretended to grow faint "You’re right I do, but I can’t help it... Its my brothers’ influence I’m afraid, they’ve positively warped me" Cat sighed, rolling her eyes dramatically as she leaned against Sev. "Besides. You’re the one who’ll be teaching Sara at the start of next term... just thought I should warn you now... she really does like the bright colors." Cat said as she kissed him quickly, smiling brightly at him, and becoming quite amused by the look of shock on his face.

Severus never wanted to leave this spot, this moment, he had never felt so at peace with the world, or so at ease with anyone in his life. He adored Catri’s gentle teasing and playful kisses, he was tempted to ask her to marry him on the very spot. . . .

But he wanted to do things properly, her room was already prepared at his home, he had given the house elves very detailed instructions, even down to the type flowers and where to place them, he refused to leave anything to chance. Not tonight, not for something this important.

Noticing her shivering again, Severus wrapped his arms around her once more as he pulled her against his chest. He thrilled as his roving hands found the bare flesh of her back and shoulders under her shawl, he could never seem to get over how very soft she was. "Perhaps we should go back in Catri" he suggested "you really are not dressed for this weather. I do not want you to become ill over the holidays." He whispered into her ear as he gently nibbled on the lobe, causing Catri to inhale sharply.

"Severus, if you keep this up, you won’t have to worry about rumors, they will have proof" Catri sighed as she rested her head on his chest "then what will you do? Your reputation will be ruined."

"Which reputation would that be?" Sev asked playfully "My reputation as a heartless beast, or the confirmed bachelor one?"

Cat pulled her head back and narrowed her eyes as she stared at him "Confirmed bachelor ehh? You *do* know what that’s code for, don’t you?" she teased as Sev glared at her, realizing too late he had been set up for just such a comment.

"I think not, Miss MacLeod" he groused "You of all people should know better than that by now." he added as he saw the twinkle in her eyes. She was simply going to tease him all night long, he could just see it. Not that it upset him, he adored it when she giggled and snuggled against him.

"Should I?" she teased "Did I miss something?" she asked, blinking her eye innocently, trying to bait him into something.

"Shall I prove it to you?" he purred as he pulled her closer "or is a reminder all that is required?" he asked as he pushed his hips against hers, delighting in her gasp and the press of her bosom against his chest.

Cat gasped and giggled as he smiled slyly at her. Realizing things were only going to progress from here, she decided a retreat may be the best thing, for the moment. "Alright Sev, you win. . . I believe you" she insisted as he relaxed his grip on her, smiling even wider as he bent to kiss her once more.

"But Raul, she nearly killed him" Olia reminded the Primogen "Please, let me embraced him."

Raul stared at her intently, what was the girl thinking, "Olia, you cannot be serious. Do you honestly think I would allow you to embrace anyone? You are notoriously unstable, if it weren’t for Cash taking pity on you, you would have been destroyed with your progenitor as the traditions and laws dictate."

Olia glared hatefully at Raul, "You have no problems when Cash embraced without your permission" she reminded him nastily "or don’t you even try to control him?"

Raul narrowed his eyes, glowering dangerously at the young Gangrel "Cash decides the fate of his own clan, not ours. And if you want to see the moon rise tomorrow, I strongly suggest you remember your place among us. Cash is the only reason you live, I would not make an enemy of him now." looking into her eyes and seeing her pain, he relented slightly. Rubbing the bridge of his nose, between his eyes Raul asked "Olia, are you, at this time, truly asking for Fang to be embraced into the blood, or are you simply frightened for his life?"

"Both" Olia answered honestly, the thought of losing him filled her with a dread she couldn’t begin to explain to anyone. He had been the first man who did not fear her, even when he realized what she could do, he found it interesting, nothing more nothing less.

"You must realized a Garou has never survived the embrace" Raul reminded her "they eventually go mad and must be destroyed." he shook his head. "You would be condemning him to death Olia, is that what you want for him?"

"That’s because they were all made badly" Olia insisted, "none of them were made from love, but from desperation and anger. Please Raul, I’ll beg you if that is what you want." she quieted down as Raul placed his hands on her shoulders.

"Olia, I don’t like Fang’s chances, not knowing what little history there is of Garou being given the embrace. But, if you are so sure, I will ask the Angel for her opinion, she knows far more about these things than even the Camarilla do. I will abide by her decision, but so must you." Raul insisted, "If you do not agree to this, I will refuse your request out right, am I understood Olia?"

Olia nodded happily, Angel knew how much Fang meant to her, surely she would agree to his being embraced, she had to. She understood what it was like not to be with the man you loved, she would never want to inflict that sort of pain on another, she was simply too kind.

Raul heard soft laughter coming from behind him, turning quickly he saw Hamish looking back at him smiling widely. "Something you would like to say Hamish?" Raul growled.

"Don’t even try it with me, O Primogen Mine" Hamish teased, "you’re a big softy and we both know it." Hamish shook his head "Olia and Fang. . .gheez, makes me glad she can’t have kids."

Raul rolled his eyes "Don’t you have students to protect?" he sighed as Hamish walked off, still laughing loudly. . .

"Miss MacLeod" Severus said as his eyes grew wide "what *ever* has gotten into you tonight?" He had never seen her so giggly or playful, he was not sure if he should be thrilled or concerned. He was only getting use to the playful teasing and jokes, but she had never tried anything like THAT before "Must I remind you to keep your hands to yourself tonight?"

"Keep my hands to myself?" Catri repeated innocently "Why Professor, what a dull evening that would be. Not to mention how difficult it would make dancing. . ." she added as she knitted her brow. "Oh, Hi Cash" she said as she waved, looking beyond Severus and smiling brightly.

Severus quickly spun around, expecting to see the vampyre who had been plaguing his existence over the past several weeks. He frowned as he saw nothing but the darkened courtyard, narrowing his eyes he peered into the darkness, then jolted as he felt Catri’s hand pinch his bottom. He felt his eyes grow wide with surprise and shock, he was not sure if he should be angry or flattered, although he was most certainly embarrassed. Turning to face Catri, he had every intention of lecturing her regarding her actions, but fell silent when he saw her giggling into her hand.

Severus felt his heart melting as he shook his head, "Miss MacLeod" he growled as he reached to grab her. He paused as she gave a little scream and jumped out of his way, she stood there just out of his reach, biting her left lower lip "So. . .you want to play" he smirked as he quickly pulled out his wand, sending streamers of rope that wrapped around her waist. Retracting the streamers, Sev quickly pulled Catri into his arms and kissed her "I think we should go back inside and dance," Sev insisted as he smiled "I want your hands were I can see them Catri." he warned playfully "No more goosing the professor"

Catri pouted at him "Hmpt, confirmed bachelor is it then?" she asked, watching as he tried to look very sternly at her. "Fine, fine, have it your way. But do you remember how to dance, I’m told its been a while for you."

"True, it has been a very, very long time" he agreed as he looked deeply into her eyes, judging by the rhythm of her breathing, she understood he was not referring to dancing "but I am told one never truly forgets." So saying, he escorted her into the great hall just as a waltz began to play "Shall we?"

Catri smiled tenderly at Severus as he took her in his arms and swirled her around the floor, they danced together for several songs until Cash appeared at Catri’s side. Severus tensed immediately waiting for the vampire to cause trouble.

Instead, Cash bowed politely to Catri "Angel, may I have this dance?" he asked, completely ignoring Snape "I haven’t danced with you in a very long time, I would like to practice before the wedding." he added as he winked, fully aware of the effect his comments would have on the Slytherin.

Angel shook her head "Cash, you are such a brat, shame on you" she scolded playfully "You know as well as I do that there are no wedding planned until this spring."

"That’s what you think baby doll." Cash replied as he stole Angel away from Snape’s arms "As far as I’m concerned you and Sirius are getting married over the holidays. Which of course leads me to ask the next question, Why did you come with him?" Cash asked as he grimaced. "I thought you would be here with Remus.... or Sirius" he paused as he noted the pained look on her face.

"Any thoughts I had regarding Sirius Black are long gone Cash. I made the mistake of letting my heart hope again, then I saw Esmeralda Filch, excuse me, Black, going to his room." Cash gave her a quizzical look, it was evident he had no idea what she was talking about. Angel took a deep breath and looked into Cash’s eyes "The woman he spurned me for... she was always tormenting me over him. It was probably her that left the note." she explained, her voice becoming shakier and shakier as she spoke.

"Note? . . . .What note?" Cash asked hesitantly, wondering if it was his note or if someone else had gotten involved. "And explain to me about this Esmeralda chica again."

Cat raised an eyebrow "Chica? My dear, someone has been hanging around Raul too long." she teased weakly. She could hear the pain and disappointment in her own voice, she knew Cash could hear it as well, especially when he guided her head to his chest.

"Talk to me Angel, you’ve never kept secrets from me before. Please don’t start now." Cash pleaded, he needed to understand the cause of her sudden pain. She had seemed so happy only a day or two ago, weak and tired, but happy.

"Someone left me a note saying Sirius was still in love with me and still single." She explained softly as she tried not to cry "It was written in pink ink, I should have guessed then that it was her. Oh gods Cash, I can‘t even begin to tell you the pain she‘s caused me. She‘s the real reason I finally left here, I couldn‘t take seeing her with him anymore."

"Seeing her with him, I thought you were with him. I thought the two of you loved each other?" Cash all but whispered as a terrible dread crept into him. It just wasn’t possible that Sirius had lied to him, he could see the love he held for Angel, he never even tried to hide it. And what about his time in prison, surely he couldn’t have had a wife, but Tris did mention something about Sirius breaking Angels heart once before. "Angel? Please talk to me."

"We did love each other Cash, or at least I loved him." she replied softly as she wiped a tear away "but apparently he didn’t love me quite as much, or maybe he just didn’t want a Sidhe for a wife. . . .I don’t really know." she sighed.

Cash hugged Angel tightly and sighed deeply himself, something was so very wrong with this picture. He knew beyond all doubt that Sirius loved Angel, and he could tell that she loved him just as dearly. So where did this Esmeralda person come into play and why was Angel so willing to doubt Sirius? "So you’re telling me this Esmeralda is Sirius‘s. . .?"

"Wife Cash, she’s his wife" Cat whispered as she hugged him tightly, needing his comfort and support. "I don’t want to talk to him or about him, not now. I just can’t"

Cash rubbed her back as he continued dancing with her "Alright Angel, I’ll drop it for now. But I am telling you, something does not sound right about this at all. I’ve seen the way he looks at you and Harry, I hear the love and joy in his voice when he talks about the two of you. If he’s married . . .I’ll. . .I’ll. . ."

"Don’t you dare hurt him Cash" Angel cut in quickly, her eyes narrowing menacingly at Cash.

Cash smiled at her protective response, hurt or not, she still loved Sirius "I’ll kiss the Slytherin" he said as she rolled her eyes at him. "Really I will, that’s how sure I am about this."

"And if you’re wrong?" Angel teased, "You are going to kiss Severus? This I have got to see. On the lips or the cheek?"

Cash grinned as he saw the playfulness returning to Angel’s mood "On the lips! Smarty-pants" he teased "but I’m giving you fair warning, he slips me the tongue and I’m going for the jugular." Cash shook his head as she laughed at him "That’s better Angel, I can’t stand to see you upset. Of course I can’t stand to see you with *that* either.".

"Cash, please, don’t start. I’m tired of being alone, I do have. . .needs of my own. And you’re the one who’s forever telling me I need to have fun. . .and have children."

"Children…with that?!" Cash stared at her in disbelief "You wouldn’t. If you want a donor. . . I don’t know, ask Remus or Albus, . .or . . .or that guy over there." he said as he motioned to the arithromancy professor.

"Ask Albus? Alright Cash, stop feeding of drunks." she teased, then becoming very serious she added "and don’t step over the line Cash. I love you dearly, I would kill or die for you, but I will not end up like Wanda. I will not be forced into a marriage just to have children. I know you don’t like Severus and will never allow me to marry him. That’s fine, and I can accept that. But if I become pregnant you and I both know no one will force me into anything, they would never risk my losing the baby." Angel paused as she felt Cash’s body tense. "He is strong, intelligent, and powerful Cash, I believe those are the only prerequisites our clan cares about where fathering children are concerned."

Cash turned his eyes from her "Fine Angel, take some time, have some fun with the Slytherin" Cash sighed, he felt almost as heart broken as she did, he really liked Sirius, he would have been a good father for her children. "But do *not* make any long term plans or commitments with him. Do you understand me childe?" he asked sternly "He will never be accepted by our Clannad, he doesn’t belong with us."

Cash made his mind up then and there, he would find Sirius and he would have the truth, one way or the other, even if it meant tearing through the wizards mind to do it. Gods help Sirius if he was lying about his love for angel, and gods help them all if Angel did anything foolish with the Slytherin. Cash fought off a growl as he pictured the Slytherin attempting to trick Angel into marriage.

"Hey you two" Harry chimed in merrily "mind if I cut in?" he looked up at Cash who was smirking at him "She made me promise, at least one dance with her tonight." Harry explained as Cash shook his head and chuckled.

Cash was actually relieved that Harry had chosen this moment to ask Angel to dance, he needed to get out of the hall and find Sirius. "She has you trained already doesn’t she?" Cash teased as Harry stuck out his tongue "and such manners, your mother must be terribly proud of you."

"I am, so there" Cat replied, sticking her tongue out at Cash as well. She smiled sweetly at Harry "Are you sure Harry? I don’t want to take you away from your friends." she said as she quickly looked to where Cho was sitting, talking with Hermione and Ron.

Harry shook his head "A promise is a promise. Besides, I want to show you how much I’ve learned from your lessons." Feeling a strong hand on his shoulder, Harry looked up to see Cash smiling proudly at him. "And Cash didn’t even have to carry me over this time." he grinned as Cash chuckled.

"Oh yeah. . .he’s yours through and through" Cash laughed "Heaven help us all, he’s got the MacLeod sense of humor. The holidays promise to be fun, kinda wish I were going this year." he said wistfully.

Harry seemed shocked "You mean you’re really not going? Why not? I thought you and mum were just teasing me."

"’fraid not Harry" Cash sighed "someone has to stay behind and keep an eye on the school. But Tris will be there waiting for you." he winked "and so will a houseful and a half of cousins." Cash felt his heart swell as he saw the look of joy on Harry’s face, he truly wished he could be there for Harry’s first visit with clannad, but he had a duty to protect Albus’s school and students. Besides, if he had his way, Angel and Harry would be far to busy with Sirius to even miss him.

Bowing deeply to Angel, Cash said "Goodnight baby doll. I’m going to patrol the school again." after kissing Angel on her cheek, he turned to Harry "Keep and eye on your mum, try to keep her out of trouble, and talk her into dumping the Slytherin and hooking up with someone decent, like Remus or . . . You know.. . Pretty much anyone else." he and Harry laughed as Angel swatted him across the back of his head "And maybe YOU can teach HER some manners" he teased as he waved goodbye to them. He wanted to stay and talk to her, to talk sense to her himself. But he had to find Sirius first, he wanted the whole story, not this bits and pieces crap. In fact, Cash had the distinct feeling that was all anyone had at the moment, bits and pieces of the puzzle. Well now he had Angel’s bits, and soon he’d have Sirius’s pieces, and maybe Remus’s as well if he could find him quickly enough.

"What a brat" Cat growled as Cash headed towards the door "He just can’t help but have the last word. Just wait and see what he finds in *his* shoe come solstice."