Order Only Private Message to Severus Snape

[alt_poppy]

I've just come from Minerva, and I find another degree of improvement. Interesting, isn't it, how such things come in spurts rather than in steady increments?

If she continues as I hope, then by Saturday or Sunday, we might shift to the maintenance regimen we've discussed with a once-per-week dose. I will continue to monitor closely lest there be any slippage as we taper off.


And now to change the subject, allow me to wish you many happy returns! My notes inform me that you've reached another birthday and are due for your annual checking over by the Matron. Please stop up at your earliest convenience.

Comments

[alt_severus]

I have noticed her improvement; it is most encouraging. Should you be in need of further potions brewed, and you lack the time or do not wish to be observed in the brewing of them, tell me: I continue to owe Minerva much, and wish to repay her. It is encouraging that she is responding so well.

Your birthday wishes are as unnecessary as always -- I do not value the day any more or less than any other -- but I suppose it would be hypocritical of me to ignore your summons after so long in coaxing Minerva to seek treatment.

[alt_poppy]

I shall keep your offer in mind, Severus. If I put you off now, it is for two reasons, neither of which is a refusal to recognise your skill... or your generosity in offering.

The first consideration is that I am taking on an apprentice, and I intend to introduce her to the sort of compounding and brewing I do regularly and, if she proves adept and di , the more exceptional preparations that are occasionally required. (I started to write 'and discreet', but I am already confident on that score.)

Secondly, I generally prefer to do my own brewing, though there are items for which I rely on Horace's expertise (and will continue to do so as it would be difficult to explain why I might no longer require his assistance with those items). Healing is an organic art, however, and I find that where I have prepared the medicinals myself, my application of them is more controlled, nuanced, and effective than when I must rely on commercial preparations or someone else's brewing.

Still, there are times when a specialist Potioneer's skill is demanded. And, as I say, I will keep your offer in mind.