Okay, I'm really hoping two things: (1) that the stranger turns out to be one of the "good guys" and (2) that you update very soon. This was a good chapter which helped advance the story and build suspense. Hope to see more soon!

Very nice, Rivah. I love the way you're always able to capture the emotions of the characters -- it's something I've noticed in your poetry, and it continues in this story. The encounter between Harry and Ginny was both heartwrenching and sweet; it was one of those moments that's sad, yet hopeful at the same time. Well done.

Author's Response: Experience, age and living with five drama queens(sibs not husband and kids), it prepares you for any emotion. Having left someone I really cared for for reasons outside both of our control, this part was pure sense memory. Thanks for the kudos. I hope the next chapter warrants the same compliments.

Hello there, Rivah. I just wanted to drop you a quick note saying that I think this poem does a very good job of portraying Ginny's worry (and a bit of her frustration) after being left behind. Although it doesn't seem to flow quite as easily as some of your other poems, I don't really see that as a bad thing in this case, as it only helps set the desperate tone. I especially liked the phrase "I am riddled with doubt," although I think I would have liked to see the word 'riddled' capitalized. ;-) I haven't seen a new post from you in a while, so it's good to see you're still writing. I look forward to another installation of your chaptered story when you get the chance. *hint hint*

~Nuwanda

Author's Response: I knew that the meter was off but i agree with you it sets the tone of realism and desperation. As Abby said this poem was totally emotion driven and only in re reading it did I see it\'s connection to HP. I honestly was more intent of purging some frustration and let whatever was upsetting me flow freely. Becuase the connection to HP was an afterthought I actually would have never thought to capitalize riddle. It is an ingenious idea. As for the chaptered story, I am waiting for my second beta to finish. As soon as it gets back to me, I will put it in. I am actually almost done with chapter three.

Okay, I can't believe I missed it when you posted this first chapter! Then I got smart and added you to my Favorite Authors list so I won't miss one of your new stories again.

I have to say that I'm flattered that Voldy likes my writing so much that it moved him to tears. At first, I was worried about that e-Crucio, but then I remembered he had lost his magical powers and breathed a huge sigh of relief.

Anyway, Schmergo, this was just as funny as TDLB. I loved it, and the oblique references to just about everything were hilarious -- you really seem to have a knack for that. Can't wait for the next chapter! I see it's already in the queue. Yay!
~Nuw

Author's Response: Why, thank you, nuw! I was rather worried by the fact that you hadn\'t reviewed, because I was scared that the e-Crucio had killed you. (Voldy may not have any magical powers, but computer viruses are always potent.)

Wow. It took a lot of stamina just to read that; I can't imagine what it must have been like to write it. It was a little awkward at times, but on the whole and amusing and fun poem. :-)

Author's Response: Thanks so much! I know about the awkwardness . . . I kind of noticed it, but it\'s quite hard after you\'ve rhymed about a thousand times. :) I\'m so happy you liked it! ~Lindsey :)

Very touching and insightful poem, Rivah. To be totally honest, after DH was published I became probably the most anti-Snape person I know (not because my feelings for him changed, but because pretty much everyone else's did). I think the reason for that is because, after seeing his history with Lily, I can't bring myself to call what he felt for her "love". It seems more like a stalker-ish obsession, to tell the truth. James loved her enough to want to change for her. Severus just wanted to change her to fit his own ideals.

I wanted to tell you all that because I didn't want you to think you'd made me think less of him. You have done a very good job of capturing the emotions here -- and actually, now that I think about it, the poem is from Snape's perspective, and in his mind, at least, what he felt for Lily was true love. So for the purposes of your poem, forget all about my Snape rant. ;-)

Sorry, Rivah, I've been ranting a lot in reviews lately, and it's going to get me into trouble. Just know that I think you did a lovely job here -- I think most of us have experienced "unrequited love" at some point or another, and both your content and word-choice do an excellent job of conveying the despair with just a tiny glimmer of hope that characterizes such a one-sided relationship. I especially like the phrase "the heart none believed was there." Not only is it a wonderfully poignant phrase, it's also a perfect description of Severus Snape, a character who was able to bury his emotions so thoroughly that he fooled Voldemort for years and became a bitter old man before the age of thirty.

Bottom line: I really enjoyed it. Sorry for the incoherent ramblings; if I happened to type anything offensive, you know it wasn't intended. Talk to you later!

~Nuw

Author's Response: I am not offended in any way and I honestly enjoy your rants. It was all on topic so I think you are safe. Thank you for the compliment. I kind of agree with you about him being a little stalkerish. I think since he had no love to draw from in his life, this was the closest he could get. Speak to you soon. Rivah