Intolerable Man [SnapexOC]

10. The first task

It was heaven. The aroma of the numerous herbs, burning wood, the light and cool humidity that the wet stone bricks emitted which smelt like fresh rain, all mixed together. Lana had forgotten how captivating the potions room was, especially after a long day of classes.

Severus had suggested that Lana come by after classes Friday evening so he could show her the ropes. Lana didn't start until that next Monday, but it had been awhile since she had been in a potions class, so she accepted his offer. Severus started with the basics. Treating Lana like one of his students, but in the friendliest manner she had ever seen him behave in. This made Lana suspicious, but she didn't want to question it and ruin a good thing. It seemed like the relationship between them was finally being mended.

Severus ran through the herbs in his stores, reminded Lana where all of the different tools were located in class. Memories came flooding back from Lana's time as a student, and her short time as Severus' assistant.

Lana attempted to explain to Severus that she had worked in a Potions shop during her time in France, but he wouldn't have any of it. Every time she mentioned her experience, or that she already knew something he waved his hand dismissively at the subject.

"No, no. I'm sure you still try to do everything your way,  like you always did. Just let me teach you, Lana." he said almost jokingly. No formalities. Just two old friends, and not so former colleagues. Lana laughed along, and tried her best to listen. Although, after today she knew she'd go back to doing everything her way anyways. Lana still appreciated the gesture.

                                           ~•~

Crowds of children headed toward the arena to watch the first task take place.
Dragons.
The four champions had to face off against full grown Dragons, who were given an egg to protect. They were only allowed their wands and wit to aid in capturing their prizes.

Lana sat beside Severus, she on his right, and Minerva on his left. The two leaned over him to talk the entire day, and he didn't complain at all. Severus even joined in the conversation a bit.

It was amazing! The Dragons were such beautiful creatures. Lana felt like she could burst, she was so excited. The first three champions had already gone, and collected their prizes. Last up was Mr. Potter.

The young boy stumbled out into the arena timidly at first, but soon found some seemingly hidden confidence, and strutted across the rocks toward the egg, as if it would be that easy.

Suddenly, the Hungarian Horntail, which happens to be the orneriest of the four dragons, brought down its tail aiming for Potter. Luckily he dodged both of the dragons attempts at crushing him. Lana heard Minerva, and even Severus gasp and wince at the strikes.

Eventually Mr. Potter was able to summon his broom stick, and begin flying. The dragon, broke from its chains and darted after the boy. Potter flew right over their heads, and then the dragon after wards. Severus flew back into Lana's lap. She was frozen, not knowing if she should help him, or if she should leave it, since it felt so good to have him close to her again. He began to laugh a bit under his breath as he made his way to his feet, then turned and offered a hand to Lana. Of course she accepted and returned to her seat next to him.

After many suspenseful minutes, Potter returned on his broom and scooped up the egg. The crowd cheered for the boys return and victory.

~•~

After the first task a gaggle of teachers decided to head to Hogsmead to grab a few drinks.

The night was full of laughter and jokes. McGonogall filled Lana in on all of the twins' rambunctious activity while she was away. Minerva would never admit it but Lana could tell she was beaming with joy. They were a menace but they were her's.

It was moments like these that Lana couldn't find any where else. She searched for something similar in France, and had no luck. Hogwarts and the people in it were her home, as it was to so many others.

Lana and Severus were out the latest. They stayed at The Three Broomsticks until last call. Once they were thrown out, the pair stumbled down the paved path heading back toward the school. Lana was holding herself up using Severus' robes.

"Now I remember. You can't handle your liquor!" he said, amused by the state Lana was in. Lana snorted at his remark. He was by no means wrong.

Suddenly Severus straightened up, and all of his amusement went fleeting. He stood rigid, as if he saw a ghost. Lana searched for the source of this strange behavior. All Lana saw was a few different people walking the streets, the same as she and Severus were. An old woman, a group of young witches and wizards, fresh out of Hogwarts age, and a couple. After glancing at Severus, then back at the couple Lana realized they were the source of his change in demeanor. She could admit they were strange. The man had long blonde hair, wore all black and walked with a cane. But that wasn't strange for the wizarding world.

Lana shook it off and tried to pull Severus forward, but in doing so nearly fell, and grabbed onto Severus for support.

"Miss Darcy. Compose yourself." he said while pushing Lana away, and dusting off his robes.

Lana giggled a little, hoping he was being as sarcastic as he sounded. His expression did not change.

"What?" Lana asked through another spout of the giggles.

"You're embarrassing yourself.". His tone had changed considerably. His voice, which was light and reminiscent a moment ago was now full of malice.

After shooting Lana a look of disgust, his gaze returned to the couple. But it was obvious he was staring at the snobbish woman clinging to the blonde fellows arm.

"Perhaps they're old friends." Lana told herself.

After the couple passed, Severus continued walking, without Lana.

This was just like Severus. Once you get too close for his liking he pushes you away. Lana thought they would be able to be friends, she hoped for it dearly. Lana of course did not want to admit that she still loved him, since all that would do was complicate things and get her hurt. She wondered if she deserved it. Being hurt. Like she had done to Severus.

Lana composed herself, then headed towards the castle. She hoped they could go back to normal when it was just the two of them in the classroom. Perhaps they had too much to drink. Maybe he was trying to maintain professionalism. There were too many possibilities for her impaired mind to ponder. Although she tried on her way back to her room, but had no success. Finally, she made it to her bed and passed out almost instantaneously.