Wicked Game by JayKay (NC-17)

[gardendoor.livejournal.com]

Fandom: HARRY POTTER
Pairing: Snape/Lupin
Author Website: Story found at The Parapet
Why this must be read:

This is one of my favorite long, slow slides into love. It starts as an alternate version of Prisoner of Azkaban from Remus's perspective and grows from there in strange and unexpected ways.

Lupin, you insufferable idiot, what the bloody hell have you done to me?

Minerva took one look at me, stopped dead in the hall, and stared as if I had suddenly sprouted an extra head. Within the hour, Albus 'just happened' to stop by my office, and, after a great deal of circumlocution, finally got round to asking if there was anything I meant to tell him. I looked a right stupid git, because I had no idea what he was blathering about.

I've had his explanation. Now I want yours. S. Snape

Dear Severus,

Excellent weather we're having here. A bit rainy, but that's normal, and it's not hurting your herb garden any, which I'm sure you'll be pleased to know. I've been taking care of it, by the way. I found the drying racks in your workroom, and I remember enough from Herbology to manage, but you could always send along some instructions, including where and how you want the herbs stored once they've been dried.

The asphodel you left drying is nearly ready, and I should be able to send it along soon, if you want it. The mandrake roots are requiring most of my time and attention, as they're in that awkward stage. I'm not looking forward to repotting them, but I believe I'll need to within the week. I don't suppose you have earmuffs?

I'm fine, thank you for asking. I'm glad some of my clothes were salvageable; I've been repairing them over the last few days, which means I have something to wear other than your nightshirt and dressing gown at last. There hasn't been any trouble, not even so much as a strange owl flying overhead recently. How are the preparations for the mysterious Big Event going? I hope there are no complications?

And do you have no other kind of tea anywhere in this house other than that ridiculously strong chai blend? I'm convinced it removed three layers of skin from my tongue with one sip.

Now then, to answer your question. It's a bit of old magic, unique to sentient shapeshifters. I'm sure if you ask Hermione Granger nicely enough, she could have it looked up for you in a trice. However, I doubt you'll do that, so I may as well tell you myself.

By tracing a certain pattern on your skin, I've marked you as mine. My saliva acted as the catalyst for the spell, which will warn on a subliminal level that you've been claimed. It's not visible, except to other shapeshifters, including Animagi, but anyone who approaches you with lascivious intent will sense it and be diverted.

Yours, Remus

Lupin,

You branded me with a claim marker? Why didn't you just piss on my robes and have done with it?

Thanks to you, Albus beams at me like a proud father every time I see him, and Minerva tries to appear as if she's not staring at my neck when, in fact, she is. Constantly.

S. Snape

PS: The earmuffs are in the wardrobe somewhere. If they're not in one of the drawers, check the top shelf. As for storing the herbs, I keep empty jars and bottles in the workroom cupboard. You'll also find labels in the top drawer of the desk. Kindly send the asphodel as soon as possible. I find my supply here is lower than I thought. I will also want wormwood, as soon as it is available. I've included a few instructions on a separate sheet with this letter.

PPS: If you want another type of tea, then for God's sake, stop whinging and go buy it. I've had your name added to my account at the Muggle bank in Whetby. Draw money whenever you need it.

Wicked Game I
Wicked Game II
Wicked Game III