The Snape Showcase

The 2024 snapecase Reveal!

2024-02-03T08:00:51Z

Greetings, Snape Fen!

I really appreciate everyone's efforts this run, and I hope that you all enjoyed the fest.

Without further ado, I present the 2024 Snape Showcase Master List:

The 2024 snapecase Master List
1.	goddess47	One	Starting School (PG)	FIC
2.	goddess47	Two	Visiting the Library (PG)	FIC
3.	geminisister	Three	Shedding His Childhood Skin (PG)	FIC
4.	prolurk	Four	Hogwarts' Secrets (PG)	FIC
5.	debjunk	Five	L'Apothicaire (NC-17)	FIC
6.	iulia_linnea	One	An Economy of Words (PG)	FIC
7.	iulia_linnea	Two	Shit Husbands (PG)	FIC
8.	iulia_linnea	Three	New Quarters (PG)	FIC
9.	iulia_linnea	Four	Assisting the Ministry (PG)	FIC
10.	phoenix_fancies	Five	Smouldering Luck (NC-17)	FIC
11.	milotziherself	One	It's a Boy! (G)	ART
12.	sigune	Two	Nineteen (PG)	ART
13.	goddess47	Three	Advanced Potion Making by Libatius Borage (PG)	FIC
14.	goddess47	Four	Desperate Refuge (PG)	FIC
15.	goddess47	Five	Maybe Not by Accident (PG)	FIC
16.	geminisister	One	The Friendly Shadow (PG)	FIC
17.	themightyflynn	Two	It's All About Who You Know (NC-17)	FIC
18.	goddess47	Three	The Homework Conundrum (PG)	FIC
19.	debjunk	Four	Haven (PG-13)	FIC
20.	themightyflynn	Five	Cold Hands, Hot Tongue (NC-17)	FIC
21.	phoenix_fancies	One	His Own Devices (G)	FIC
22.	goddess47	Two	Desperate Revision (PG)	FIC
23.	milotziherself	Three	Seven Years of Teaching... (G)	ART
24.	goddess47	Four	Attempting Temperance (PG)	FIC
25.	dollarchan	Five	Quiet Life (G)	ART

Creators, now that I've shared the Reveal, you're welcome to post your works to your journals and archives and to reply to the comments you received during the fest. If you're archiving your work at the Archive of Our Own (AO3), remember to use the Community: snapecase tag so that people can more easily find your work.

As a matter of housekeeping and not one for alarm, please note that I will be clearing the snapecase_mod's flist toward snapecase's next run; the mod account's flist is only ever the list of current participants—and that means that if LJ doesn't implode, I'll see you back here for the 2025 run of the fest!

All best,

iulia_linnea

ART: Quiet Life (G)

2024-02-02T12:28:40Z

Title: Quiet Life
Type: Art
Age-Range Category: Five
Character: Severus Snape
Artist: dollarchan
Rating: G
Summary: The classic scenario: while the Wizarding World believes he died in the Final Battle, Snape retires to a small house in the forest, with his books, a garden and some chickens.

FIC: Attempting Temperance (PG)

2024-02-01T10:45:15Z

Title: Attempting Temperance
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Four
Characters: Severus Snape, Irma Pince
Author: goddess47
Rating: PG
Summary: "Headmaster. If you do not remove those miscreants from the Library, I'll… I'll…" Words had failed her. She stamped a foot and glared.

Irma Pince was fond of rules and formalities. Rules made life easier and formality let everyone know where they stood in their relationships.

But today her hair was awry, a hem had come undone on her skirt, and she had buttoned her blouse wrong. Severus knew a simple charm or two would fix all of that but she looked like she didn't have the energy to even try.

"Headmaster. If you do not remove those miscreants from the Library, I'll… I'll…" Words had failed her. She stamped a foot and glared.

Severus held on to his patience. It was his first week as Headmaster and he was still finding the right path between being a colleague and being (more-or-less) responsible for everything and everyone inside Hogwarts.

"Irma." Severus hoped the 'colleague' option would be the better course. "Take a breath, please. Then tell me what is wrong."

Although Severus already had his suspicions. But he had to make this work, somehow. He had no good answers and had to make the best of the bad options he did have.

Irma did take a breath. Then another. She closed her eyes to take a third breath, letting it out in a long whoosh.

"The Carrows."

Ah! Severus expected this. Unfortunately.

"What are they doing?" Severus asked patiently.

"They're in the Library, defacing books. Vanishing books. Doing Merlin only knows what else," she said, face ruddy with anger.

"I will speak to them," Severus replied. "I would think the contents of the Library would be protected against such things."

"Against students, yes. Not against faculty. The protections assume faculty know what they are doing." She hesitated. "Please do so as soon as possible," Irma begged.

Although I do not know what I can do. Severus did not say that aloud. "I will," he promised.

Irma glared again, turned and stomped out of the Headmaster's office.

Severus slumped back in the chair and rubbed his forehead.

"Oh, dear, this is not good," Armando Dippert said from his portrait.

Tell me something I do not already know! Severus kept quiet.

"Severus, my boy," Phineas Nigellus said, "appeal to their Slytherin side. That's your best chance."

Severus nodded. At least it was reasonable advice. He left the office and made his way to the library.

Amycus was sitting on a table, looking as lumpy as ever and doing his wheezy giggle as he watched Alecto flit about the stacks.

Severus watched for a moment as Alecto scanned a shelf and then plucked a book. She held it up. "Keep or go?" she asked.

"That is related to the sixth year Transfiguration class," Severus said. "If it goes, then the Slytherin students are less likely to pass their N.E.W.T.s in that subject."

Alecto frowned. "What fun is that? Who wants to take that stupid test?"

"Hey! I took it!" Amycus protested.

"Oh, right," she smiled. "Okay. It can stay." She slid it back onto the shelf.

"While I do understand that you have a… directive from the Dark Lord to ensure that students are taught the proper things, you may want to consider that he also considers the Library here as part of the value of the school," Severus said blandly. "You are doing harm to something the Dark Lord owns."

Amycus looked faintly confused as he parsed through the statement but Alecto immediately understood.

"But there are… traitorous books here!" she hissed.

"Make a list and send it to the Dark Lord," Severus shrugged. "But if you have destroyed something he remembers fondly from his own school days…" He let that trail off. "And he will be… disappointed if the Slytherin students do not do well on their exams."

"He can change the exams!" Alecto declared.

"He can," Severus agreed. "But he does not, yet, have the ability to do so. And, remember he can only change the exams the Ministry might offer. Some Slytherin students are from outside Britain and will need to take the International exams, which already are more difficult than the Ministry exams. Until he can change the Ministry exams, then we must prepare the students for the existing exams."

Alecto sighed as she climbed down the ladder she had been perched on. "You are no fun!"

Severus shrugged. "That is part of my position. I am not here to have fun. I am here to prepare children to serve the Dark Lord."

Amycus giggled but Alecto huffed. "Then… I'm bored! What is there to do?"

"Classes start next week, are your lessons prepared?" Severus asked. Always ask a question you already know the answer to.

"Prepare lessons?" Amycus asked. "Why would we do that?"

"You are preparing children to serve the Dark Lord," Severus repeated. "What will the Dark Lord think if you do not prepare them well?"

Amycus looked horrified.

"The Ministry provided books," Alecto pointed out. "We'll just use them!"

"And for practical lessons, what will you do?" Severus asked patiently. "The exams have both a paper test and a practical component, if you remember."

Alecto looked mulish for a moment, then sighed. "I guess we should think about something for the students to do."

"You can likely do book work for the first week or two," Severus thought it would be useful to give them some practical advice. "You can use that time to assess what the children do and do not know. But they will become bored at some point with purely book work. Dolores Umbridge discovered that, at a great loss, and she is still in St. Mungos."

That made Alecto thoughtful.

"You may want to ask the Dark Lord his opinion on detentions," Severus suggested. "While Slytherins rarely earn detentions, — " although they frequently deserve it — "if he is seeking to recruit students from other Houses to his side, you may want to be sure not to… dissuade a student who may be on the fence about their allegiance."

Amycus frowned.

Severus sighed. "If you treat a student who might be persuaded to follow the Dark Lord badly, they will choose not to follow him," Severus explained.

"Oh!" Amycus nodded. "But, what fun is that?"

"Which is why I suggest you ask the Dark Lord for guidance," Severus repeated. Although he suspected the Dark Lord would be annoyed by such requests. But it would hopefully slow the Carrows down in having 'fun' with the students.

His faint, best hope was that the Dark Lord would reply with something along the lines of follow whatever Snape decides but he knew the Carrows were at Hogwarts to watch him. So the best he could hope for was no specific answer, which would hopefully temper what the Carrows could do.

"You are not obligated to attend, but there is a staff meeting tomorrow morning," Severus informed them. "Again, if you are recruiting students, you may want to at least be civil with the other faculty."

"We'll think about it," Alecto replied with a sniff.

"Up to you," Severus replied easily.

"Come, Amycus, we'll do some lesson planning," Alecto said.

Amycus stood and followed her out of the Library.

Severus pretended not to hear the soft Thank you that came from deep inside the Library.

ART: Seven Years of Teaching (And No End in Sight): G

2024-01-31T06:39:02Z

Title: Seven Years of Teaching (And No End in Sight)
Type: Art
Age-Range Category: Three
Character: Severus Snape
Artist: milotziherself
Rating: G

FIC: Desperate Revision (PG)

2024-01-30T11:30:02Z

Title: Desperate Revision
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Two
Characters: Severus Snape, Lily Evans, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin
Author: goddess47
Rating: PG
Click to View Non-violent death of Eileen Snape.
Summary: Severus' future hinged on the upcoming N.E.W.T.s. He has to prepare and prepare well.

It was the Easter holiday and Severus was staying at Hogwarts this year, his Seventh year. His excuse was that he was preparing for N.E.W.T.s and needed to revise.

The truth was that while he technically had somewhere to go, there was no one waiting for him.

His Mam had died the previous summer, not long after Severus had returned from Hogwarts for the summer holiday. Severus was frustrated that she had died of a disease that could have been cured if she had gone to a Healer or St. Mungos. She had put off seeing a Healer and, by the time Severus came back to Spinners End, there was little that could be done.

He sometimes wondered if his Mam held on to life long enough to see Severus one last time. Also, he assumed that she lived so that Severus would take care of her burial, since neither Eileen nor Severus had heard from Tobias in over two years. He could be dead for all Severus knew.

Severus was abstractly glad that she had not died before he returned to Spinners End. He appreciated not having to find her cold body waiting for him.

Severus took his mother to St. Mungos, where the Healers shook their heads and offered pithy platitudes. She passed away four days later, in the middle of the night, as quietly has she had lived for the past few years.

Fortunately, St. Mungos had a well-oiled process to deal with deaths and a matronly woman had taken charge of everything for Severus. She had Eileen prepared for burial, and found a graveyard that would take an indigent case. Severus took the information given to him, appeared at the small ritual that was quickly performed, and said his sincere thanks to the three people involved.

There was a fraught moment when the woman asked about other family and where Severus, who was barely of age, would be living but he assured her that he had a place to live and that he was going to return to Hogwarts at the end of the summer. She seemed to accept that as adequate and let him go so she could go on to her other cases.

The next morning, Severus found himself alone in Spinners End. He had no information on either Eileen's or Tobias' families, so there was no one to notify.

Knowing there was no money, nor any valuables to sell, in the house, Severus rolled up his sleeves and started brewing. He initially bartered potions for ingredients, then was able to earn enough to keep himself going for the summer and to buy the books he would need for his Seventh year. It was tedious, exacting work but it left him little time to think about anything else.

By the end of the summer he had a small stash of potions for his own use, a few precious Galleons, and a sketchy promise of employment if he wanted.

Back at Hogwarts, Severus was finally able to breathe. Passing his N.E.W.T.s was his only goal. That and being accepted as an apprentice with a Potion Master, to be able to earn his own Mastery and side-step the sketchy employment offer. He kept his head down and worked hard.

Footsteps approached his table in the back of the Library where he worked alone.

Lily!

Severus held his breath. He did not realize Lily had stayed over the break, since she either went back to her parents or was invited to visit the Potters.

"Professor Slughorn has told me that you have the Library's only copy of Linfred of Stinchcombe's potions journal," Lily said briskly. "There is a portion of the journal that I would like to read, since it may assist the Charms project I am doing for Professor Flitwick. I only need it for a few hours and I will return it to you."

She stopped and stood there. She did not look at him, simply waited.

"The book is in my room right now," Severus said softly. "Do you need it immediately or may I give it to you at dinner tonight?"

"Dinner is fine," she nodded. She turned and walked away.

There was a smattering of students who stayed at Hogwarts for the Easter break. A good number of Seventh year students had stayed, most were also revising for the upcoming N.E.W.T.s. There were enough students that the regular House tables were used for meals in the Great Hall.

Severus retrieved the book and took it to dinner. Lily was already there, accompanied by Black and Lupin. Severus assumed Potter had gone home.

"The book you requested," Severus said, holding out the book.

As Black was about to swipe at the book, he winced. Someone, likely Lupin, had kicked him under the table.

Lily turned and took the book. She did open the cover to assure it was what she was looking for.

"Thank you," she said formally. "May I return it at dinner tomorrow evening?"

"That will be fine," Severus replied. He nodded at her and made his way to the Slytherin table.

The other Slytherin students largely ignored him. He ate his dinner in silence and went back to the Library to continue revising.

At dinner the next night, Severus saw Black whispering with Lily who fiercely whispered back to him. Black tried to take the book in her hands away from Lily but she hit Black with a sharp Stunning spell and walked away.

She set the book on the table. "The book was helpful," she said. "My thanks to you for sharing it."

"Lily…" Severus started. He moved to stand up.

"No. I… I cannot talk to you," Lily said without turning around.

"I am sorry," Severus said to her back.

Lily nodded and walked away. Wanting to follow but knowing better, Severus sat back down at the table. Black and Lupin stayed at the Gryffindor table as Lily left the Great Hall. Severus felt Black's eyes on him as he ate, but he ignored the Gryffindor.

On the last day of the Easter break, an unfamiliar owl approached Severus at breakfast. The owl held a small roll of parchment out to Severus. In exchange, Severus offered a rasher of bacon, which the owl took before flying off.

No response required, I assume, Severus thought to himself. Curious, Severus opened the missive.

Severus. A friend of mine has an opportunity that you may be interested in. If you are interested in more information, send a message after your exams and I will arrange introductions. —Lucius

What kind of opportunity might Lucius Malfoy be able to offer to him? Severus frowned. He knew Malfoy was a follower of Voldemort and that a number of former Slytherins were also followers. Some of whom were influential in the Ministry and the Wizengamot.

Knowing he could not allow himself to be distracted, Severus took the note to his room and placed it where he would find it later.

He still had revising to do.

FIC: His Own Devices (G)

2024-01-29T10:25:54Z

Title: His Own Devices
Type: FIC
Age-Range Category: One
Character: Severus Snape
Author: phoenix_fancies
Beta(s): auntlynnie
Rating: G
Summary: What can Severus do on a cold January day?

Severus Snape woke up early on the Saturday after his eighth birthday and listened to his mother getting ready for work. She works as a maid in a hotel in the nice part of town on the weekends, but she has to be there by seven o'clock. If she misses the bus, she has to give herself plenty of time to walk, even in January.

Mother makes sure to be home for him before and after school, and she was able to get him a cake for his birthday this year. Father was away with work, so it was just Severus and Mother this year. That was fine for Severus, since Father always seemed to be angry, even if he wasn't shouting.

The walls at home were thin, and Severus could hear his mother approach. He quickly pretended to be asleep, closing his eyes softly, and turning his head so his mother could kiss his cheek.

"I'm off, Sweetie. Be good and stay inside. It's very cold today." She kissed his cheek and tucked the blanket around him.

"Love you," Severus said. He had practiced the right amount of volume so she wouldn't suspect him to be truly awake.

"I love you, Severus."

He listened to her turn and go. Then she gathered her coat and bag. Then she opened the door and closed the door. Then, her keys turned in the lock. After that, he couldn't hear her steps anymore.

Severus opened his eyes and waited. He wanted to jump up and go, but if he was caught sneaking out the back window, his mother would tan his hide.

Once he was sure she was gone and not coming back, he jumped out of bed. He pulled denims on over his sleep trousers, wrestling the legs so they were all straight. Then he put on the two sweat shirts he had, one was getting too small, but the other one was too large.

Then socks, which he had to adjust because one of his toes would poke through. Then, the only new thing he owned his boots.

Last weekend, the librarian who let him read the books for older children said that her nephew had grown out of them. He could have them if they fit.

They were a bit big, but he wouldn't grow out of them any time soon.

He went back to his bed and flipped the pillow over to reveal a piece of a deer antler. He had found it in the wood behind the school this summer. When he got it, it was about the length of his forearm. He had grown a lot, though, which Mother worried about, so the antler was easier to hold. He grabbed the thickest part at the bottom, turning it in a figure eight with his wrist.

Finally, Severus went to the front door where his coat was hanging on a hook. He put the coat on, tucking the antler between his the sleeves of his sweatshirts. Under his coat was a key on a string. He wasn't going to go out through the door this morning, but he put it on over his head anyway. If something happened and he had to come in through the door on his way home, he'd need the key.

Severus walked into the small kitchen. He stepped up on the stool on the far side of the room and opened the window and climbed out. His heart always pounded when he did this. If someone was on the street, he might be seen. Also, there was a bit of a drop.

Grunting, he dropped to the pavement below. He moved a milk crate over and got up to close the window. Before it was completely closed, he slid a thin piece of bark under it. He couldn't open the window from the outside without breaking it when it was completely closed. Severus knew a little something to hold it just barely open would do the trick.

Jumping down and putting the crate back, Severus brushed his hands on his coat. He jiggled his arm to make sure the antler was as it should be. He looked at the horizon. The sun was coming up. He slipped through a loose board in the fence behind the house.

Severus hurried to Muns's Buns. Missus Munser would give him a meat pie if he pulled the bag of rubbish to the curb for her. Last week, she had had two bags, so he had gotten two buns. They had been warm and delicious.

Severus whizzed past the old man who ran the newsstand on the way.

"Good morning, Mr. Snape," the old man called after him.

Severus turned to wave, but didn't slow his pace. Thinking of buns fresh from the oven was more of a priority than talking with the shopkeeper.

Just as the sun peeked over the horizon, Severus made it to the back door of Muns's Buns. It swung out towards, but he caught the door handle.

"Did I miss the rubbish?" Severus asked as he turned toward the doorway.

The heat of the bakery pushed past him, and he felt his cheeks get warm.

"No, sir, and it's two again, if you're up for it," Missus Munser said as she wiped her hands on her apron. "They're heavier today. I know you're eight now, but—"

"I can do it!" Severus insisted. After a moment, he remembered to smile.

Missus Munser smiled back. "I'll see what's coming out of the oven for you, then."

Severus watched her go back into the kitchen. Once she was surely gone, he loosed the antler from his sleeve. He reached for the first sack, carefully wrapping the antler so neither it nor the sack broke.

It was heavy. Severus gave it a tug, and thought about how much he wished it would be lighter. Almost as if he were magic, the sack did seem lighter. He pulled it down the alley to the curb to be picked up. He dashed back and did the same with the other.

He hid the antler away in his sleeve again. He rapped on the door as Missus Munser had told him to do.
Then, the door opened, and Severus stepped just inside. He wasn't allowed in the bakery, technically. However, he was treated to two fresh hot meat pies.

"It looks like you're out for an adventure today. That should stick with you." Missus Munser smiled as Severus pulled the first one from the bag.

"Thank you, Missus Munser. You make the best pies in town."

"Flattery will get you the world, Mr. Snape, don't you forget. Would you like some tea to wash it down?"

Severus nodded and took another bite.

Missus Munser made her tea very weak with a lot of honey in it. Severus thought it was very delicious.

Severus ate his pies and drank his tea while Missus Munser bustled around the kitchen. The shop opened at eight o'clock on Saturdays. As long as he got here before then, Missus Munser had said he could help if there was something to do.

It was just between them.

As he got about halfway through the second bun, his belly was very full. However, Severus didn't think he'd have much of a lunch today, so he made sure to get it all down. He needed all the tea to get there, but he managed to finish everything.

"All done?" Missus Munser asked without looking at him.

"Yes, ma'am. Thank you, ma'am."

"Off with you then. Don't get in trouble. Mr. Munser hates taking the rubbish to the curb on Saturday mornings."

Severus slipped out the back door and turned to walk to the school. He liked the wood behind it, and he felt ready to see what else he could find there.

Sometimes the groundskeeper would be working first thing on Saturdays, but Severus thought it was too cold to start this early, even for a big man like the groundskeeper.

Severus rubbed his hands together. He wouldn't get the antler back out until he was in the wood. Once he did though, even just holding it and thinking about being warm seemed to work a treat.

It was peaceful this morning. Everyone else still seemed to be cosy in their bed, and Severus felt like he could do as he wished without anyone around to shout at him.

Finally getting to the entrance of the wood, Severus sprinted toward a big fallen tree and then jumped over it.

"Yes!" he shouted once he had cleared it. Now that his legs were getting longer, jumping the old tree was easy. He turned back and thought about doing it again, but decided against it. The day was short, and he had better things to do.

Pulling the antler out again, he rolled it between his hands back and forth. "Warm me up." Severus closed his eyes and thought about how it felt when this worked.

It felt like that gust of heat that came from the bakery door when it opened.

He took a deep breath and felt his cheeks and fingertips get warm again. Then, he held it in his right hand and looked around the wood.

Severus knew it pretty well. All of the different seasons made it feel different. At the very far end of wood there was a pond, and the children could swim there when it was very hot in the summer.

Thinking of the water in the pond rippling away from him, he imagined all of the branches and boughs fanning out. Looking up, Severus saw that it was working. He ran through the wood, watching as the trees seemed to let him pass as he wanted.

When he was out of breath, he realised his hands had grown cold. He couldn't do the wind and be warm at the same time. He was sweating under his coat.

As he caught his breath, Severus felt like he maybe shouldn't have had so much tea. Severus looked around, moving toward a big tree with a lot of low branches around it. He relieved himself, holding the antler in his left hand to try to keep warm.

When he was done and ready, he walked away and looked around. Turning his gaze up, Severus judged where he thought he would be, thinking now of going to the library. Even though the sun was low over the tops of the trees, morning was getting late.

The library was near the school but a bit of a walk from the wood. He could hold the antler out for as long as he was hidden in the trees without drawing attention, but then he would have to put it away.

Severus found the edge of the wood that was nearest the library, and walked along the edge until he found the right street. This intersection had gotten really busy over the years. Now there was a stoplight there.

It certainly made it easier to cross, but it also made him more conspicuous. He did not want some adult to come along and tell Mother where he was and ruin everything.

There were a few cars on the road, but the drivers didn't seem to be noticing anything but the road in front of them at all this morning. Severus waited for the traffic lights to turn, and he walked across the street.

A few blocks later, and up the library steps, Severus found himself inside a warm, quiet place.

"Good morning, Severus," the head librarian whispered.

He gave her his usual wave, wordlessly moving to where he liked to sit. There was a big window that he could look out from without anyone seeing him if he didn't want them to. First, he had to go to the bathroom and wash his hands. He didn't want anything to ruin any books because his fingers were dirty.

Severus liked the children's books, but sometimes, he also liked reading the books about radios and televisions. He also liked the books about moving things with your mind, although they seemed less reliable than the books about radios and things were.

He could move things with his mind, as long as he was tucked away where no one would see him. He knew he wasn't the only one in the world, but he was the only one besides Mother that he knew. It's what made Father so angry all the time. Father couldn't do it.

Severus shook his head. Father liked the library, and he liked the books about radios and things, and his job working on radio wires and all that took him away a lot. Father had apologised for having to miss his birthday this year, but he had given Severus a proper hug before he'd left, which felt nice.

Sitting down near the window, tucked back so he could hardly be seen, Severus opened up a big book about "telekinesis." When he had first found it, he had figured it would be too advanced for him, but it turned out to be very simple to read, even if it was a lot.

Severus put the book on his lap and tucked his hand up his sleeve so he could hold the antler. He took a deep breath and started reading.

He read page after page, turning each one with his mind. It only worked when he was holding the antler, but the book never mentioned anything about needing to hold something. He was nearly done reading the whole thing when he heard the church bells ringing.

It was three o'clock. It would be dark soon. Severus almost panicked. He had to get home before Mother.

He took a deep breath. The librarians would certainly notice if he ran out of the library. Making sure his antler was tucked away safely, he closed his book. He put it on the cart for book returns and then he went back to get his coat and get bundled up.

The librarians would also notice if his coat wasn't buttoned. He didn't have time to be told about that.

Making sure he was all together and everything was right, Severus moved toward the door. In the afternoons there was a bowl of apples by the door. Severus wished the librarian goodnight and took an apple. That always made them smile.

Once he was down the stairs to the sidewalk, Severus bolted for home. He would have a miserable time sneaking back into the house after dark, and he had to get home before Mother. He had to.

He took every shortcut he knew, including an alley that went past the bus stop where Mother would get off the bus.

The bus was coming up the road!

Severus ran as fast as he could, slipping through the loose fence board carelessly. It made a loud bang because he wasn't careful.

It didn't matter.

Severus had to be inside the flat. He moved the crate back under the kitchen window, shimmied the piece of bark to get it open, and climbed through. Pulling his antler out, he pointed it straight at the crate and wished only for it to go back to where it belonged.

He closed the window carefully so it wouldn't break. He hastily tore off his coat and the key on the string around his neck, hanging them up on the hook. He took off all of his layers down to his pyjamas. He hid the antler under his pillow. Then he pulled the blanket from his bed to go into the chair in the sitting room.

He was just opening his book when he heard Mother's key at the door. Severus took a deep breath.

His mother came in not a minute later.

"Severus?"

"In here," he said, hoping he didn't sound out of breath.

"Did you have a nice day? What did you eat?"

Severus's heart skipped. He'd left the apple in the kitchen by the window.

She wasn't really listening to him, though, and immediately ducked into the bathroom after her coat was hung up.

Severus ran to the kitchen, grabbed his apple, and shoved it into his coat pocket.

"Oh, you're up." Mother said. "Did you have a nice day?"

He moved to wrap his arms around her middle. "Yes. Did you?"

"Well, the best part was coming home to you. My favourite part, actually." She pushed her fingers through his hair. "You're clammy. Are you sure you're feeling well?"

"I wouldn't mind having you read me a story in bed, if you're not too tired."

"I can manage that. I'll open a can of soup."

FIC: Cold Hands, Hot Tongue (NC-17)

2024-01-28T12:17:24Z

Title: Cold Hands, Hot Tongue
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Five
Character(s)/Pairing(s): Severus/Draco, Lucius/Narcissa, OC children
Author: themightyflynn
Beta(s): Jess
Rating: NC-17
Click to View Temperature play, blow jobs, hand jobs.
Summary: When the children are away, Draco and Severus will play.

It had happened gradually, as all the best things do. He had always been there, a constant presence in Severus' life. At times it had been a childish, annoying presence, but it was still constant. Even when Severus had snapped at him, or thrown him out, he had always come back. Standing in the doorway of the rooftop terrace, Severus smiled.

Draco stood leaning on the railing, staring out over the grounds of Malfoy Manor. Early morning sunlight shaded his pale hair pinks and reds, matching the light sunburn he had picked up when playing Quidditch with their boys the day before. Severus' eyes trailed down and over what he could make out of Draco's physique beneath the loose t-shirt and boxers he wore. He had filled out nicely over the years, with over a decade of playing professional Quidditch giving him that lightly muscled body that drove Severus to distraction at times. Shifting his position slightly caused the door to creak, giving his presence away.

"Good morning, Severus."

Severus' smile widened. Draco had always had an uncanny ability to tell when Severus was standing near him, even without the creaking of doors to give him away.

"It is indeed." Taking a couple of steps forward, Severus placed a hand lightly on the small of Draco's back. His other hand held a bottle of cream, the glass frosted a little. "I believe you may be in need of this?"

Draco winced and straightened a little, causing Severus' hand to slip off his back. "Please tell me it's burn cream?"

Severus did not bother to suppress his chuckle. "Perhaps from now on, you will take more care than to play Quidditch with the children while shirtless?"

He could make out the edge of Draco's responding smile as he turned to present his back, and it sent a shot of warmth through him. Tugging gently at the t-shirt Draco wore, he held up the bottle of cream.

"Strip."

Draco's smile turned to a grin. His head turned so he could meet Severus' eyes.

"Is that a command?"

The warmth spreading through Severus took on a decidedly more heated tone at the suggestion to Draco's voice. He ignored it for the time being, however. Tracing a finger along the waistband of the boxers Draco wore, he raised an eyebrow.

"When have you ever listened to any directions I have given you before?"

"If I start, will you do it more often?"

Without waiting for Severus to respond, Draco pulled the t-shirt up and over his head, revealing his reddened back, shoulders, and neck. It looked painful, but to Severus' trained eye, he could tell that it was not serious. The burn cream he had brewed the night before should be more than sufficient. He dipped his fingers into the bottle, feeling the frosty sensation of the cream tingle along his skin. Before he could begin to slather it on Draco's back, however, Draco leant backwards, resting his shoulders against Severus' chest.

"Are you ignoring me now?

Draco's chest and stomach were both red as well. His face, arms and throat had been spared, as he had at least had the sense to slather those parts of himself with sunscreen before removing his shirt during play. Shaking his head, Severus let out a small sigh.

"You are making that task a little difficult."

"Good," Draco responded with a quiet hum. "Get on with it, then."

With his fingers covered in the cool cream, Severus traced a pattern over the very top of Draco's chest, just below his collarbone. He could not help the smile that returned to his face when Draco hissed at the sensation, arching his back so that his head fell back against Severus' shoulder.

"Oh, that's…"

"Cold?"

"Fucking freezing," Draco grumbled.

"Perhaps this will teach you a lesson, then?"

"Bloody sadist."

Hissing his breath between his teeth, Draco pressed back further into Severus. With his neck arched, eyes squeezed shut, and jaw clenched, Severus was sharply reminded of other situations that caused Draco to have similar reactions. He pushed the memories aside, however. Focussing on getting the cream everywhere Draco's skin had turned red, he ignored the noises Draco was making.

Sliding his hand slowly down Draco's torso, Severus took another scoop of cream and began to slather it over Draco's nipples, pectorals, and stomach. The heated skin provided a stark contrast to the cold cream on his fingers, sending tingles down his arm. He could only imagine what the sensation must be like for Draco. Running the tips of his fingers over Draco's nipples caused them to harden, and Draco to let out a pleased sound.

"Draco?"

"Mmm… The cold is good, Sev."

His voice had deepened a couple of octaves. Unable to help it, Severus grinned, despite the shiver the sound sent through him.

"Is it?"

"Mmhm…"

Draco arched again, this time pressing himself into Severus' fingers on purpose. Taking the hint, Severus smoothed his fingers over Draco's nipple, rubbing the cold cream in slowly. He could see the burn lessening beneath the cream, but the situation had tipped away from merely Healing Draco's sunburn with remarkable swiftness. Pleasure swept through Severus as Draco hummed.

"I need to do your back." When Draco let out another hum, Severus shook his head. "Draco, turn around."

No matter how pleasurable either one of them was finding this, he knew that Draco's sunburn had to be Healed. Nudging him with his hip, Severus had to smile when Draco let out a sound of protest.

"Draco, if you cannot see the benefits of facing me as I rub cream onto your back, then—"

"Oh, do shut up."

Severus grinned into the kiss Draco pulled him into. There had been many ups and downs in the eight years of their marriage, but this was something that they had always been good at. Making certain that his hands were coated, Severus began rubbing them up and down Draco's back. The kiss was nothing spectacular — he was a little distracted by the cream — but Draco's breathing changed as Severus massaged his lower back.

"Sev…"

"We shall have to wait until the boys have left with your parents."

Draco groaned. "Tell me, why did we decide children were a good idea?"

Severus raised an eyebrow. "Were you not the one asking whether we should have another just the other week? 'Try for a girl this time' were your precise words, I believe."

Warmth spread through him as Draco smiled. Leaning in, he brushed their lips together softly.

"Do you not think that we would make another beautiful baby?"

Severus shook his head. "I am fifty-three years old. What I think is that I am getting too old to be running around after toddlers." Running his hands up Draco's back again, he smiled when Draco sighed. "Now, get your shirt back on. I don't want a repeat of this."

Grumbling the entire way, Draco followed him back down through the house. Lucius and Narcissa were visiting from France, and had agreed to take the boys back with them for a few weeks during the summer. Not only was it a nice gesture for Severus and Draco, who had very little time to themselves, but it would also be good for the boys to be exposed to other cultures as they grew up, Severus figured. Draco slipped off into their bedroom suite to get dressed, leaving Severus to head down into the breakfast room by himself.

"Father!"

The general chaos that followed behind their three boys always seemed to worsen whenever Lucius and Narcissa were involved. Severus suspected that Narcissa was feeding them sugar behind his and Draco's backs, but he had never been able to prove it. Kneeling down, he scooped Caspian — their youngest — up and carried him over to the lounge that sat facing one of the large windows. Caspian giggled the entire way, kicking his legs hard enough so that Severus had to tighten his grip.

"Good morning, Severus," Lucius called from the dining table, where he sat with Elio and Silas. "Have you seen Draco, by any chance? Narcissa was looking for him."

Severus smiled as memories of what they had nearly gotten up to flashed through his mind. "I believe he is dressing for the day. He has just applied some burn cream on his sunburn."

Lucius shook his head. "I taught him better, you know."

Nodding, Severus could not help smiling wider. "I do know. I was there."

This relationship had been difficult for Lucius and Narcissa to accept at first. Severus understood completely. With him being twenty years older than Draco, he figured it would worry any decent parent. But, Draco had made his choice, and he had stuck with it. He believed that Lucius had come to the decision that there were many worse choices Draco could have made for a life partner. The two of them chatted as they waited for Draco and Narcissa to make an appearance. The boys kept them busy, with Caspian in particular testing Severus' patience.

"Father, are you and Papa coming with us to France?" Elio asked just as Narcissa entered the room. "Grandmère and Grandpère have lots of room."

Severus smiled. He nodded a greeting to Narcissa, who smiled in return.

"Not this time, Elio. Your Papa has a Quidditch game scheduled, and I have meetings to attend." He held a hand up when Elio began to protest. "I promise we will come collect you in two weeks in person, however. You may even be able to come watch Papa play, if your grandparents are agreeable to the idea."

He raised an eyebrow at Lucius, who nodded. Narcissa took the seat next to Lucius at the table and began trying to help him control some of the pandemonium Elio and Silas had caused.

"We would very much like to watch Draco play," Narcissa muttered, sounding a little distracted. "We haven't had much opportunity to since he retired."

"Beyond the occasional pick-up game, that is," Lucius added.

Severus had to hide his smile as he watched the two of them trying to convince Elio and Silas to sit down and actually eat. He and Draco had made the decision to not raise their own children in as strict an environment as either of them had grown up in. Draco because he wanted his own children to have a sense of freedom that he himself had never had, and Severus because there was not a chance in hell that he would allow himself to turn into the kind of man his own father had been. So far, it seemed to be working a treat, he considered as he watched Silas — their eldest at six years — climb onto his chair and declare that he was now a pirate and Elio — four years — was his sworn enemy. Narcissa ducked as Silas swung his 'sword': his breakfast spoon that, thankfully, was no longer coated with cereal. Standing, Severus knew he had to put a stop to it all. He was beaten to it by Draco entering the room, however.

"Alright, who is causing all this noise? I can hear you clear to the top of the Manor!"

"Papa!"

All three boys raced across the room to crowd around Draco. Caspian appeared to be in danger of being stomped on for a minute, but Draco scooped him up, carrying him back to Severus.

"Father says you are playing Quidditch again soon, Papa?"

"Yes, can we go watch?"

"Your father," Draco grunted as he deposited a giggling Caspian onto Severus' lap, "has a big mouth."

This sent both Elio and Silas into fits of giggles as well. They would never repeat what Draco had said — they had taught them well enough to be polite — but they clearly found the fact that Draco was willing to say something like that in front of them amusing.

After getting the boys somewhat settled, the adults began discussing the details of the trip to France. They had it all planned out beforehand, obviously, but Draco, like Severus, preferred to have minute details hashed out as well. Thankfully, none of the boys had dietary requirements, although both Silas and Caspian were slightly picky eaters. Elio, they had discovered, would eat practically anything. By the time the boys had finished breakfast, they had most of the trip planned to Draco's satisfaction.

"So, I should be expecting to see all of you in the family box during the game, then?"

"Yes!" Elio bounced up to Draco as he stood. "I'm going to be a Quidditch player just like you, Papa."

Severus didn't doubt it. They spent the next hour getting everyone out the door. Lucius had hired a car that would take them to the train station. From there, they would catch a train to the Apparition point. There was no need to make the journey as long as that, but Narcissa seemed to like the idea of the boys 'seeing the sights', as she put it. Severus knelt down to embrace each of the boys as they left.

"I will see you soon, do not worry," he murmured into Caspian's ear. "We will be together for Papa's game on Saturday."

It took longer than Severus knew was absolutely necessary to bid everyone farewell, and once they were officially on the way, he heaved a sigh. Draco leant back against his chest, his own sigh echoing Severus'.

"I love them, I really do," he stated quietly.

"It will be nice to have some time alone, though."

Draco nodded. "I feel like a bad parent for feeling that way."

Wrapping an arm around Draco's waist, Severus leant in to brush his lips over the shell of his ear. "You are an excellent father, Draco. Never allow anyone to tell you otherwise."

Humming, Draco leant further back into Severus' embrace. One hand traced light touches down the arm Severus had wrapped around his waist, causing goosebumps to rise.

"I do hope that you are willing to finally make good on the promise you implied this morning, Sev."

The abrupt subject change was nothing new. As much as he had grown and matured, displays of affection still made Draco uncomfortable. Severus smiled as he placed a soft kiss behind Draco's ear.

"Of course. Lead the way."

The heated look to Draco's eyes as he turned and started up the stairs towards their bedroom sent a shiver down Severus' spine. Calling to one of the house-elves, he cleared his throat.

"Ah, Tippy, very good. Would you be so kind as to send up a glass of ice to one of the bedside tables?"

The tiny elf nodded and accepted the coins that Severus handed her. Draco was always on him to not bribe the house-eves, but Severus did not see it as bribery. He saw it as an investment towards his future comfort. Nodding to himself, he made his way quickly up through the house after Draco. The fact that there was a trail of clothing leading from the door to their suite to the bedroom caused his heartrate to kick up a notch.

"Draco?"

"A glass of ice, Sev?"

"Well, you seemed to appreciate the touch of the cream earlier…"

Severus allowed the sentence to trail off as he entered the bedroom. Draco sat against the headboard, his pillows behind him. He was completely naked, something that Severus took the time to admire as he stripped his own clothing off. He noted with a jolt of pleasure that the sunburn had Healed entirely.

"Lie down."

Draco smirked. "Another order?"

"Well, we could attempt this with you sitting up, but I believe that it would be at least slightly difficult."

It was rare that the two of them tried anything more extreme in the bedroom than a touch of light bondage. Severus wanted to make certain that this little experiment went well. When Draco met his eyes, though, he seemed to understand. Moving the pillows so they were lying flat on the bed again, he shifted down so he could lie with his head on them. He watched Severus expectantly, licking his lips.

"Very good, Draco," Severus murmured. "Now, I want you to lie still."

Taking the first of the ice cubes, Severus touched it to Draco's collarbone. It prompted a hiss of Draco's breath, and Severus removed it.

"Too much?"

"No, I… No. Try again."

Severus watched Draco carefully as he trailed the corner of the cube down Draco's chest. He paused at his nipple, circling it so it hardened. Draco hummed, arching up into the touch.

"That's… nice."

Moving so he sat on the bed facing Draco, Severus smiled. "Let me know if it's too much."

When Draco nodded, he continued. Holding the cube in his hand, he allowed it to melt a little, dripping cool water down onto Draco's chest. He watched it run down his stomach and pool in his navel. He then switched the cube into his other hand and used his cold hand to run trails down Draco's side.

It was all experimentation. Neither of them really knew much about what they were doing beyond trying to make each other feel good. When Severus touched the ice to Draco's hip, he hissed again.

"Don't stop," he moaned when Severus removed it. "Keep going. It feels… good."

Severus raised an eyebrow, but continued. He trailed the ice along the join of Draco's hip, allowing it to melt as he moved it. He was unsure how Draco would react to having the ice placed directly onto his cock — which was standing at half-mast, despite the cold — so he grabbed a second one and began to melt it in his other hand. When he felt that hand was about as cold as he could stand, he very cautiously wrapped it around Draco's cock.

"Oh, fuck…" Draco arched, a loud groan leaving his mouth. "Keep going."

Severus watched as Draco's cheeks heated. His breathing had already sped up, his chest rising and falling rapidly. There were trails of red where the ice had touched his chest and collarbones, contrasting wildly with his pale skin. When he felt his hand warming up, he switched them, placing a new cube into his warm hand and using the cooler one to stroke Draco.

"Sev… You have to — mmm — you have to try this." Draco paused, panting. "So good…"

It became apparent very quickly that Draco had no intention of having actual sex that morning. His hips jerked up into Severus' hand, and he groaned loudly each time Severus switched hands. It wasn't long before Severus was hearing the telltale sounds that Draco's orgasm was nearing.

"Yes, yes… I… Mmm…"

Unable to help it, Severus smiled. He kept his eyes locked on Draco's face, watching as pleasure contorted his features. When Draco's mouth opened and a frown marred his brow, Severus knew this was it. Twisting the hand on Draco's cock, he squeezed just a little harder on the upstroke, dragging his orgasm from him. Draco's hips jerked and his back arched as he came, a garbled set of words escaping from him. Severus stroked him through it, his mind now wandering to his own cock.

"Mmm… You've got to try… So good…"

Severus smiled. He leant in to capture Draco's lips in a heated kiss. Draco's hand came up to tug on Severus' hair, dragging him further down. When he broke the kiss, his eyes were dark and lidded.

"Lie down, legs off the side of the bed. I have an idea."

Draco's voice was rough. A shiver ran through Severus as he moved to do as Draco instructed. He wondered briefly what Draco was up to, but that was answered when he saw him taking one of the ice cubes into his mouth and biting down. It crunched loudly and Draco grinned.

"Lie down."

The words were muffled, and Draco slurped as some of the water dribbled from his mouth. Severus grinned.

"A creative idea."

Draco hummed. Lying with his legs dangling over the edge of the bed, Severus took a deep breath. His erection had flagged a little, but he knew that would not be a problem for too long. Draco ran the very tips of his fingers along the underside of his cock, the touch of his fingernails adding a little sense of danger to the action. He then took a deep breath and, with another slurp as he opened his mouth, took Severus' cock to the root.

"Fuck."

Draco's mouth was freezing. Severus gasped as Draco swallowed, some of the water escaping to begin to pool around him on the bed. It wasn't until Draco moved, drawing his hot tongue along Severus' cock, that Severus knew what he was aiming for. The contrast between the freezing ice and water with the heat of his tongue was… astonishing. It made Severus gasp again as Draco swirled the ice cube around the tip of his cock. When Draco made a questioning noise, Severus nodded.

"Keep going."

It was stunning how quickly the heat replaced the cold. Draco bobbed his head, continuously sucking to keep the water in his mouth. The vacuum created each time he drew the water back into his mouth sent Severus' head spinning. Pleasure rocked through him and his hips thrust into Draco's mouth involuntarily. It caused water to dribble down onto him, but by that point, he could not care. All he was focussed on was his impending orgasm. Reaching down, he threaded his fingers through Draco's hair.

"Draco, I—" He was interrupted by a moan as Draco pressed the ice cube to the tip of his cock. "Fuck you."

Draco chuckled, adding to the sensations flooding through Severus' rapidly overloading system. When Draco pulled back to suck of the tip of his cock, his hand stroking the shaft, Severus knew he was done for. His stomach muscles clenched and his hands thumped the bed beside him as he began to come.

Draco took all he could, swallowing rapidly. When Severus collapsed down onto the bed, panting, Draco followed.

"Well?"

Severus rolled so he could place a soft kiss on Draco's lips. "We should try this again."

Draco smiled. "Perhaps with a little more planning, we might not even make such a mess of the bed."

Severus chuckled. Taking deep breaths, he tried to get his heartrate back under control.

"You know, if we had another child, we likely would be unable to do things like this for a long time."

Draco hummed. "Yes, but we could have a lot of fun doing things like this in the runup to having another child." Turning so his arm draped over Severus' middle, Draco kissed him again. "But, that is a discussion for another time. Come back to bed. We can play some more later on."

Severus was never going to turn that down. Heaving himself up, he cast cleaning and drying charms over himself and the bed. Draco threw the covers back, leaving them with crisp, white sheets to lie under. Severus smiled when Draco landed next to him, his arm flung over his chest again. He leant to place a kiss on Draco's forehead.

"I love you."

He could feel Draco smile against his chest. "Love you, too. Now rest. I'm planning on exhausting you again later."

FIC: Haven (PG-13)

2024-01-27T10:12:21Z

Title: Haven
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Four
Characters: Severus Snape/Original Character, Voldemort, Hogwarts Faculty
Author: debjunk
Beta(s): steelersgirl
Rating: PG-13
Click to View angst, slight mention of blood/gore from snake attack.
Note(s): Another fun Snapecase! Enjoy this twist on canon.
Summary: After Severus kills Dumbledore, he must deal with the fallout from his colleagues' hatred and his own personal grief. He meets an old friend from Hogwarts who helps him to deal with all of it. Can she help him save his life too?

Severus raced to the gates with Draco. Running through them, he Apparated the two of them almost immediately as he crossed the gates. They quickly appeared in his home at Spinner's End. He moved up the stairs, closely followed by Draco.

"We can't stay long. This is the first place the Aurors will look for me."

"You… you killed him."

"That was the order, wasn't it?"

"Yes, but…"

Severus stopped on the stairs and eyed Draco. "Would you have done it?"

"I… I don't know."

"You wouldn't have. I saved you. The Dark Lord would have killed you if you had fully lowered your wand and not done the deed. Now, I will take the credit, and your life will be spared."

Draco looked down at the floor. "Thank you, Professor."

"I am no one's professor now," Severus said with a huff as he finished climbing the stairs and retreated to his bedroom. He grabbed a duffle and waved his wand. Magically, items from his closet and dressers loaded into the duffle. Grabbing the bag once he was done, he hurried back downstairs to his bookshelves. He waved his wand again and several books from different places flew into the bag. He zipped it shut.

"Let's go," he barked at Draco.

He headed to the fireplace, and they took the Floo to Malfoy Manor. Narcissa was pacing in front of the fireplace where they emerged. She rushed to Draco and threw her arms around him.

"Oh! Thank Merlin you're all right!" Her eyes met Severus' as she hugged Draco furiously.

"Thank you," she mouthed to him as she continued her onslaught on her son. She finally pulled back. "I was so worried."

"I'm fine. Uncle Severus… he…"

Narcissa cupped his cheek. "Let's not speak of such unpleasantness."

Severus broke in then. "If you'll excuse me. The Dark Lord is expecting my report."

"Oh, we'll join you, Severus," Narcissa said as she grasped Draco's hand.

Severus led the way into the study where Voldemort sat on a great throne-like chair. Bellatrix was already there, reporting on the events of the night. The Dark Lord turned his attention to the newcomers, his eyes gleaming as he saw Severus entering the room.

"Ah, Severus, from what I understand, Dumbledore is no more."

Severus approached the man, stopping a few feet away. "That is right, my Lord," he affirmed with a bow of his head.

"You have done well."

Bellatrix sneered. "My Lord, don't be so quick to praise. We can't be sure that Dumbledore is truly dead."

Severus looked enraged. "He fell off the bloody Astronomy tower, Bellatrix. If my Avada didn't kill him, I promise you, the fall did!"

"I just…"

Severus drew up to her, his face mere inches from hers. "You weren't questioning when you cast the Morsmordre, were you?" His wand appeared suddenly at her chin. "Don't mess with me tonight, Bellatrix. As you have seen, I have no qualms about cutting down my enemies."

She spluttered, but withdrew, backing away slowly until she turned and made her way back to the Dark Lord's side.

"I am pleased, Severus," the Dark Lord said as if nothing had happened. "You will be rewarded greatly." His eyes met Draco's. "As for you, young Malfoy, be thankful that my faithful servant was nearby this night or you should surely be dead at my feet along with your mother."

"I… I understand, My Lord."

"Yes, you'd better." He waved his hand in dismissal. "Get out of my sight."

Narcissa grabbed Draco by the arm and pulled him out of the room. Severus didn't turn to watch them go. His eyes were fixed on the Dark Lord.

"Severus, you may go. Wait for my owl. I will have your reward organized soon."

Severus bowed his head. "Yes, my Lord. Thank you." He turned and walked out of the room, closing the door behind him. As soon as it closed, he spun away with a crack.

He appeared in a small house deep in the woods. It was Secret kept—the Dark Lord being the Secret Keeper. Finally, he felt he could let his walls down. Crashing to the floor, he knelt, put his head into his hands, and just sobbed.

"I know… I know we agreed to this, Albus… but why? Why did you make me do this?" He wept bitter tears. "Wasn't there some other way?"

He let himself collapse onto the floor and curled into a ball, letting his grief wash over him. He knew he'd be alone for probably several days, so this was the best time for falling apart. He let himself do so wholeheartedly, mourning the loss of his friend.

God, he'd killed his friend.

Killed him.

Used an Avada Kedavra.

On his friend.

The man who had been supporting him for years… he'd just up and killed him. Albus' orders of course. Anything for Dumbledore. He knew best, right?

He certainly knew how to ruin lives. Potter… destined to die. Himself… destined to be hunted and hated, and probably killed—painfully.

Why did he listen to the old coot? He should have just backed away and let Draco take the fall. Then Dumbledore would be alive, at least for a month or so before the curse took him. And he, of course, would have been taken by the Unbreakable Vow, but at least he'd be at peace.

"Perhaps you're doing me a favor, Severus. I would imagine this," He lifted his withered hand, "will be painful in the end."

"No doubt. But Albus… outright killing you?"

"It's for the Greater Good."

"Bullshite."

"Believe me, Severus. I know you will do it quickly. Anyone else would take pleasure and make it slow and torturesome. I need you to do this for me."

Severus' lips thinned. "Fine," he blurted out quickly. "Just drop it."

"Severus, I want you to know that I appreciate this. I trust you to save me, and you will."

Severus' mind pulled out of the memory, and he wept bitter tears as he tried to come to grips with everything that had happened.

___________
He stayed huddled up in his cabin for three days before he thought it might be good to get some sun on his face. Getting dressed in trousers and a white shirt, he emerged from the house and looked up into the sky. He breathed in the fresh air. Life had moved on while he was mourning in his darkened bedroom. Now he was ready to rejoin the world. He looked around the woods where the cottage was. It was nice, but he wanted to—funnily enough—be around people.

Well, he couldn't show his face anywhere in the Wizarding world. Maybe somewhere in Muggle London. There was a little café he often frequented when he wanted to be out but not recognized.

Apparating to London, he walked quickly to the café. He'd not been there in over a year, but he swore by their coffee and pastries. Entering the small shop, he sat down at one of the tables. A waitress came over and placed a coffee cup in front of him and poured the brew. Her hand hesitated, causing Severus to look up.

"Severus Snape?"

He recognized her then. An old friend from Hogwarts. What the hell was she doing serving coffee at a Muggle café?

He rose then and leaned in, whispering in her ear. "I'm going to leave now, Olivia. I'm adept at wandless magic. If you try anything, you'll be sorry. Do not tell anyone that you saw me here today."

He turned to go, but she grasped his arm. "Severus, wait."

He hesitated, then turned and gave her a narrow-eyed stare.

She leaned into him and said quietly, "I don't know what you're trying to avoid, but I haven't been in the Wizarding world for fifteen years, and I have no intention of telling anyone that I saw you. Now you can sit down and get some breakfast or leave, but it's nice to see you, and I wouldn't mind reconnecting."

He pulled his arm from her hand with slightly less force. "You haven't been to… 'home'… in…?"

"I decided to cut my losses when Mr. You-Know-Who started taking over."

He sat down, regarding Olivia thoughtfully. "Well then, I guess I'll have a Chelsea bun."

She gave him a quick nod and moved away from the table. His eyes followed her as he reminisced about the black-haired, blue-eyed witch from Hogwarts. They had been in the same class; she was a Ravenclaw. She'd been studious, yet quiet, keeping to herself a lot. Despite that, they'd gotten along and had a decent friendship, studying together often in the library. She'd been supportive of him when Lily had broken off their friendship. Unfortunately, he'd lost track of her after graduation.

Pulling out of his memories, he came back to the present as Olivia set his Chelsea bun down in front of him. He noticed her soft curls were quite lovely. He cast that thought out of his mind quickly.

"Do you want anything else?"

He shook his head so she placed his check down on the table. "Obviously, I can't visit right now, but I'd love to catch up. Would you like to get dinner tonight?"

He arched a brow. Most women avoided him, but she seemed eager to reconnect. "You've left your past behind," he said. "I'm not sure why you'd want to rekindle it with me."

She shrugged. "We always got along. I've not seen anyone from 'home' for years. It might be nice to reconnect. My address is on the back of the check. Stop by around seven if you're interested."

With that, she let him be. He quickly ate his bun and downed his coffee—paying and disappearing from the café as quickly as humanly possible. Heading to his Apparition point, he returned immediately to his cabin.

He spent the rest of the day mulling over whether he should meet with Olivia or not. He brewed a healing draught to take his mind off of… everything, but her appearance in his life still filled his thoughts. He weighed the pros and cons of meeting with her.

Pros were he'd have someone to talk to, at least for a little bit until she found out he was a murderer. (But that would fall under cons, wouldn't it?) It would also be nice to speak to someone who wasn't biased against him or his history.

Cons—well, he could be found by the Aurors or the Order. She could report him as soon as she found out what had happened, although it didn't seem like she kept up with Wizarding news. She'd have run the minute she saw him had she done so.

He sighed. He didn't know what to do. Casting a Tempus charm he saw it was six pm. He needed to decide quickly if he was going to meet her.

__________
Severus checked the address before Apparating. He'd carefully chosen his cravat and vest that he was wearing over his white shirt. He'd decided to forgo the suit coat. He scoffed at his attention to detail. This was just a meeting of two old friends, nothing more. Spinning around, he found himself in an alley down the street from Olivia's flat. He quickly made his way to her door and knocked.

She opened the door and grinned at him. "I was hoping you'd come," she said as she opened the door to let him in.

He gave her a half smile as he entered and turned back toward her. She motioned for him to take a seat. He moved to the sofa and sat on the end. She took the other end.

"Where shall we go for dinner?" Olivia asked.

"I'm not very familiar with this area. What's good around here."

"I'm in the mood for Italian if that's okay? There's a cute little restaurant a few blocks from here."

"Sounds good. Shall we?" Severus asked.

Olivia got up and grabbed her bag, and they were off. They walked together and made small talk.

"So, what have you been up to?" Olivia asked.

"I was a teacher at Hogwarts."

"Was?"

"Long story I'd rather not go into right now."

She nodded.

"What about you? Why is a formidable witch like you working as a waitress in a Muggle café?"

"I try not to call attention to myself. A magical person in an important Muggle position… not conducive to going unnoticed."

"But our world doesn't pay attention to Muggle goings on."

"Most don't, but some do. Not taking any chances."

"Yet you ask me out to dinner."

She looked at him, gauging him as they walked along. "Something told me you're trustworthy."
He scoffed. "You're a terrible judge of character, then."

She laughed. They came upon the restaurant—Osteria Merlino—and were soon seated. They both ordered, and Severus turned his attention to Olivia, casting a silent and wandless Muffliato so they could converse without the Muggles hearing them.

"Why did you leave the Wizarding world?"

Shrugging, she gave him a vulnerable look. "You know I'm Muggle-born. I didn't like the way the future looked for me."

He nodded in understanding. He regarded her carefully, examining her mind secretly to determine her motives and how much he should reveal about himself. He found nothing within her head to be concerned about.

"I think you should know, I am a Death Eater."

Her eyes widened. "But… no, I read you. You're not a danger to me."

"What do you mean, you read me?" he asked caustically.

She looked down at the table before looking back at him. "I'm a natural Legilimens. I can't read minds like some can, but I can read people's intents and feelings."

He narrowed his eyes at her. "So, you knew I was reading your mind a few minutes ago."

She nodded and blushed. "I did, but I also sensed that you are very secretive and hiding much and needed some assurance to be straight with me."

"How do you know that what I'm hiding isn't going to hurt you?"

She sat back and folded her arms. "Let me think of how to explain it. I've had this ability ever since I can remember. My parents just thought that I had a good sense of people, but as I grew, I realized that I could read their emotions and their intentions. At Hogwarts, Professor Slater, my Head of House, recognized my ability. He put me in contact with a woman who was trained in this type of Legilimency, and I privately tutored with her." She stopped. "I'm sorry, I'm babbling. Basically, my abilities can tell me exactly your motives. I used this ability before I left the Wizarding World to figure out who was a danger to me as a Muggle-born. That's another reason I left our world. I felt that if anyone found out about my abilities, I'd be sought after by the wrong element to get an edge. My powers aren't impervious to the Imperius Curse."

"So, if I understand, you cannot read memories, but you can get the feelings behind them. You can also identify if someone is a danger to you."

She nodded. "Which is why you telling me you're a Death Eater makes no sense to me," she said softly.

He frowned at her. "I wasn't planning on telling you my life story, Olivia."

She shrugged. "You don't have to tell me anything if you don't want to, but I don't understand how you can be a Death Eater when I feel no danger from you."

They were quiet for a while. The waiter brought their pasta over to them, but they just stared at each other for a bit. Severus mulled over what to do. He reached out to her mind, finding no danger within her. He didn't sense her Occluding either. If anything, she'd opened her mind to him so he could determine how to proceed with her. He finally cleared his throat.

"Thank you for letting me examine your mind," he said finally.

She nodded. Just the fact that she'd opened to him made him feel he could tell her things he could divulge to no one else. But he never trusted anyone. Why would he trust her? If he was wrong, it could mean his death. He slipped into her mind again, seeing her frown because he was being so cautious. She opened to him once again, though, encouraging him to trust her. Well, he could only trust her to an extent, but it was enough for him to feel his secrets wouldn't be forfeit if he explained them to her.

He sighed. "I'm sorry—I had to be sure."

She nodded. "I understand. I can feel that whatever you're going to tell me is dangerous for anyone to know. I promise you, Severus, whatever you say will not leave this table."

"I am a Death Eater, but I am a double… well, triple-agent, I guess you could say."
Olivia nodded, urging him to go on.

"I worked for Dumbledore. I pretend to be a spy for the Dark Lord, but actually, I am working for the Order, trying to thwart him. My life is constantly in danger, but I have gained the Dark Lord's trust. I am probably his most trusted follower at the moment."

"I see. How do you keep all this from him?"

He frowned. "I am a powerful Occlumens. If the Dark Lord were to know my real intentions, I'd be a dead man."

She looked at him with respect. "Thank you for doing what you're doing. You don't know what it means to me to know you're working against him. Maybe someday because of your efforts, I can return to our world."

"I hope so. I mean, if that's what you want. I hope that he will be defeated, and we will all be able to live more peaceful lives."

__________
Severus mulled over their evening as he readied for bed. He'd had no intention of telling her all that he had, but it had almost been a relief to tell someone about himself and have her actually believe him. Everyone in the Order had always given him the side-eye even though Dumbledore had vouched for him. They admitted that they trusted him because Dumbledore had. Now, obviously, what little trust they'd had was gone.

But Olivia seemed to take him at his word. It was… surprising to have someone do so. They'd had a nice evening. He enjoyed her company enough so that when she suggested she cook a meal for him on the weekend, he didn't think twice about accepting. He knew that the next few months would be difficult, and it would be nice to just escape from all of that, even for only a little while.

__________
The rest of the week had dragged by. Severus was lying low, and he hadn't been summoned by the Dark Lord, either, so he just had been hanging out in the cabin doing nothing except brewing potions now and then. He'd been working on a long-acting antivenin based on the cure that had been developed for Arthur Weasley when he'd been attacked by Nagini. Something in the back of Severus' mind had warned him to be ready. 'Constant Vigilance' and all that clap-trap, but if the Dark Lord was going to use Nagini against him, he wanted to be ready.

After the attack on Arthur, he'd met with the Healers to find out exactly how they'd cured Weasley. He had used their research to create the potion himself and had been experimenting on it ever since. He hoped to not only be able to use it in the case of an… attack from the snake, but as a preventative, he could take monthly to build up his ability to fight off Nagini's venom.

But now, it was time to meet Olivia again. Meandering over to his bedroom, he dressed carefully, tying his cravat and choosing a dark green suitcoat. It was nice to not have to wear black all the time.

He Apparated to her door and knocked. She answered quickly.

"Hi Severus," she said as she opened the door wide. Her black hair curled around her face beautifully. He found she looked quite lovely.

He said hello as he entered. "Mmm, is that a roast I smell?"

"Yes. I hope you like them."

"One of my favorite meals."

She smiled, but it didn't reach her eyes.

"Something's wrong," he said as he gave her a worried look.

"Come in and sit down. I need to ask you about something."

He settled into her couch. She went over to her table, picked up a newspaper, and came over to him, dropping it into his lap. It was a copy of the latest Prophet. The Headline on the main page said "Hunt for Dumbledore's Killer Continues." Underneath was a large picture of Severus scowling at the camera. His eyes shot up to Olivia's.

"I thought I might get up to date on what was going on in our world so we would have something to talk about. Imagine my shock when I see you've killed Dumbledore." She gave him a concerned look as she sat across from him on the sofa. "What's going on, Severus. Why did you kill the Headmaster?"

"Maybe I should just go."

"Maybe you should just explain this to me. I'm puzzled. I know you're not dangerous, yet this headline seems to say the opposite. Can you help me sort this in my head?"

He arched a brow at her. "You've kept an open mind despite this headline?"

She shrugged. "I know what I know about you. There's got to be a reason for what this is reporting. I know you're not an evil man, and I find it hard to believe you're a murderer."

"Perhaps your skills have failed you."

Her lips thinned. "My abilities never fail me, so you want to tell me why you killed him?" she demanded sharply.

"Because he told me to, all right?" he snarled.

"Excuse me? Why on earth would he do such a thing?"

Severus rose. "You know what, never mind. You're not going to believe me. No one will. I'm not even supposed to be telling anyone about this."

"Who says you're not supposed to be telling anyone?"

"Dumbledore! No one can know or my cover could be blown. Just… He asked me to do it. I did it. I'm a murderer. I will take my leave. Have a good night."

He turned and began storming to the door.

"Severus, stop." He heard her coming after him. "Please just tell me everything."

He spun around violently. "Why do you even care?"

"I don't know," she said truthfully. "I just… from the moment I saw you, I've felt drawn to you. I felt that we were supposed to find one another and that I needed to reconnect with you. I can't explain it any other way, but I want to know the truth. I want to help if I can."

"No one can help."

"Why did he ask you to kill him?"

He shook his head and looked away.

"Come sit down. Talk to me. It will probably help to talk about it."

"Bollocks." Nevertheless, he stalked back to the sofa and settled in. Olivia followed him and sat down, looking at him expectedly.

"There are several reasons. He'd been cursed by a ring and only had months or even weeks to live. The Dark Lord had asked a sixth-year student to kill him, and he wanted to protect the boy's soul. Lastly, he wanted to ensure my place with the Dark Lord." He went on to tell her the circumstances of Dumbledore's murder.

"That's bloody bonkers."

"Tell me about it," he huffed.

"How did you do it?"

He glared at her. "I used my wand and the killing curse."

She shook her head. "No, how did you do it? Kill your friend? It must have been horrible."

He looked away, frowning. "I'd known I was to do the deed for months—since the summer previously. I had plenty of time to acclimate myself to the idea."

"Still." She moved over and grasped his hand, squeezing it. "I'm sorry you had to do that."

He pulled his hand from her. "Who the hell are you? How can you just accept that I killed a man and give me comfort? What is going on here?"

"My abilities give me a good deal of empathy."

"I'm a cold-blooded killer. There's no empathy you can give me. You should just hate me like everyone else does."

"I'm sorry, Severus; I can't do that. I can feel the pain you're dealing with. I can feel that you hated killing your friend and despised that he asked it of you. I know you're not a cold-blooded killer."

It was too much. Just too much. "I don't understand," he ground out.

"Hasn't anyone ever stuck up for you, Severus?"

"Yes, of course…" His lips thinned. "No. Not really," he said in defeat.

"Well, I'm sorry to hear that. I'm sticking up for you. What Dumbledore asked of you was horrid. He should have been ashamed of himself."

Severus closed his eyes and looked away. "He'd always say it was for the Greater Good."

Olivia moved up next to him. "Bollocks. There's no good in this. Now you're in hiding: a wanted man."

"The Dark Lord feels that he will take the Ministry soon and give me some sort of reward."

"And yet, you still have to deal with having killed someone you were close to."

He hung his head but said nothing. Olivia pulled him to her and hugged him tightly. "I'm here to help, Severus. If you want to talk, talk. If you want to scream, go ahead. If you want to cry…"

"I have done enough of that to last a lifetime."

She squeezed him. "Still."

His arms went around her then, and he held her close, burying his head in the crook of her neck. They held that position for a while before Severus had composed himself and pulled away. "You've always been supportive of me, Olivia. Thank you."

She blushed and looked away. "I may have had a slight crush on you back in seventh-year."

"Really?"

She nodded. "You weren't really looking for someone to be involved with then, though."

"You're right, I wasn't, but now I feel like I missed an opportunity."

She shrugged and looked up to the ceiling, blushing some more. She looked back at him."Well, I'm here now. Maybe this is a second chance."

He looked into her deep blue eyes. They'd always enchanted him, even as a kid when he didn't even think of her as a girl. Now it was most evident that she was a girl and quite a beautiful one. One who was expressing interest in him. Would wonders never cease?

Reaching out, he caressed her cheek. She didn't pull away or look at him in disgust. In fact, she may have leaned into his hand. He smirked and moved closer, kissing her softly. She opened to him and he marveled at the feeling of kissing her and the emotions she was evoking from him.

__________
Severus was grateful he'd found Olivia. Because he was a wanted man, he couldn't do much of anything, so his time spent with Olivia was precious to him and saved him from going insane. He'd given her access to his cabin, and they were there together as he worked on the Antivenin potion.

"So, you think your Dark Lord would try to kill you with Nagini?" Olivia asked.

His eyes moved to her and back to his calculations.

"I think he'll Avada me, to be honest, but the snake isn't out of the question."

Olivia reached out and squeezed his arm. "We need to have a plan if that happens."

He arched a brow. "What kind of plan?"

"One to save you! I can help you survive if the snake attacks you."

Severus sat back in his chair and folded his arms. "Hmm, I hadn't thought about that. I'm so used to having to do everything myself, I didn't even think about you possibly helping me to survive."

Olivia got up and sat on his lap, putting her arms around him. She kissed him soundly. "Well, now I'm here, and I'm going to help you. I have a vested interest in your survival."

Severus smirked at her. "I would like to survive, too."

She leaned in and whispered in his ear. "Well, let's make that happen."

He captured her lips, and they were engrossed in each other for quite a while before pulling apart.

"I have an idea," Severus murmured. "Maybe we can have a way to monitor each other, letting the other know when we're near death."

Olivia curled up into him. "What could we use for that?"

"I will have to think about it. And you would need to carry the Antivenin and several other potions on your person to be ready at any time."

She nodded.

__________
Severus' Mark burned—something he hadn't felt in weeks. Standing, he touched his Dark Mark and was pulled away. He found himself in Malfoy Manor standing in front of Voldemort.

"My Lord, you summoned me?" he asked with a bow of his head.

"Yes, Severus. I wanted to give you an update. Tomorrow, the Ministry will be taken over. Once nerves have settled after that, I will announce that you are the new Headmaster at Hogwarts."

"My Lord? Isn't that…?"

"Brilliant? Yes, of course it is. Everything I devise is brilliant."

"Won't I be a target for Aurors and the like?"

"The Aurors will be directed by us. No one will touch you, Severus, and you will be able to instill our values into the youth of today. I am thinking of having the Carrows teach there as well."

Severus held his tongue. Any negative thing he said would be punished and definitely not taken into account. His feelings on the ineptitude of the Carrows was a moot point to the Dark Lord.

"So, I will start as Headmaster in the new school year in September?"

"Yes. I wanted to give you the time you need to get ready for everything."

Severus bowed his head. "Thank you, My Lord. I will prepare accordingly."

"Good. That is all, Severus. I'll summon you when the announcement about your posting is about to go out."

"Yes, My Lord."

Severus Apparated on the spot. Instead of heading to his cabin, he headed directly for Olivia's flat. Thankfully it was her day off, and they had plans to spend the day together later, so he knew she'd be home. Nonetheless, she looked surprised to see him so early when she opened the door.

"Severus!"

He came in urgently and wrapped her in a hug.

"What's wrong?" she asked. "I can feel you're upset."

He just held her for a bit before finally pulling away and frowning.

"I was summoned by the Dark Lord."

She nodded for him to go on as she led him to the sofa and settled in with him, grasping his hand.

"He wanted me to know he's taking the Ministry tomorrow and has plans to announce that I will be the new Headmaster at Hogwarts come fall."

Olivia studied his face. "How does that make you feel?"

"He says it's a reward, but it's almost like a punishment." He swallowed hard. "How can I do this? How can I be there day in and day out with everyone looking at me with hatred in their eyes? With everyone talking about me being a bloody murderer? How can I get respect from the faculty, who were my friends, when I killed their boss and the man they considered their friend, too?"

Olivia blinked away tears as she pulled him to her and hugged him furiously. "Merlin, I don't know."

He buried his face in the crook of her neck, and they held each other silently. He had no desire to move away from her. Just her holding him like this was easing his worry. After a long while, he spoke into her shoulder.

"I have to do it. It doesn't matter how it makes me feel."

"Of course it does," she countered as she rubbed his back. "You have to work through the emotions that are going to come or you'll be a mess."

He pulled back and looked into her eyes. "I can't do this alone. I need you here with me so I can let it all out."

"You know I'm here to support you, Severus. I won't let you deal with all of this by yourself."

He returned to their previous position, squeezing her. "I'll open the Floo so you can come see me at Hogwarts."

"Will you be able to leave to come see me?"

"Not often. I'm sure the Dark Lord will want me there supervising at all times."

She pulled back and cupped his cheek. "I'll come every night after work. Every night, I promise."

He leaned in, capturing her lips. His urgency was palpable and Olivia moaned as he lavished her with affection. He finally rested his forehead against hers.

"Thank you."

She smiled lovingly at him. "Of course."

Her hands came up and cupped his face as she kissed him again tenderly. "I will always be here for you."

__________
Olivia emerged from the Floo into Severus' cabin and looked around for him.

"Severus!" she called.

"In here," he called to her. He couldn't leave the cauldron he was stirring so he waited for her to come in.

"Oh, you're brewing. How's it going?" she asked.

"I need to stir this for another fifteen minutes."

"Do you think the changes you made will work?"

He nodded. "It already looks different. After all the changes I've made to it, I think this one is what I've been trying to create. Something that can be taken long-term as a preventative, yet cure instantly if necessary."

"How will you know when it's right?" Olivia asked.

"I'll have to test it on rats like I've been doing. Even if the Dark Lord uses Nagini to attack anyone again, I just can't go up to them and pour this down their throats. I'd be killed in seconds."

Olivia came up to him and put her hand on his shoulder. "You are incredibly brave, Severus. I don't know how you do it."

His eyes met hers momentarily before moving back to the cauldron and his stirring. "I have to, so I do."

"Still…"

He pecked her on the cheek quickly and moved his attention back to the cauldron. He motioned to the far table, where a small box sat. "Open that."

She wandered over and lifted the lid of the box. Inside there were two necklaces. One was more masculine, a simple, thick, silver chain. The other was a thinner chain. Both had a Celtic knot charm on them. Olivia picked them up and looked over at Severus, who was still stirring.

"These are lovely. What are they for?"

"The charms are enspelled to be a pair. We'll need to wear them always. If either of us is hurt, the other's pendant will warm. By touching the pendant, it will transport you to my side, and vice-versa."

"Severus, this is brilliant." She put his necklace down and unsnapped the clasp on hers, putting it around her neck and fastening it. "I love it. It's perfect."

"Will you put mine on while I continue to work on this?"

She nodded and moved up behind him, fastening his necklace to him. "They're lovely," she said as she kissed the back of his neck where the necklace lay.

"Just like you."

"Flatterer."

"Of course. I want you to know how important you are to me."

She sighed as she wrapped her arms around him, leaving his arms free to continue stirring the potion. "I love you," she murmured.

He stilled for a second before continuing with his stirring.

"You do?"

She nodded into his back. At that point, Severus finished with the brew. He turned and captured her in his arms.

"Really?"

She nodded again, blushing and looking down. He took his finger and urged her chin up so she could look into his eyes.

"I love you, too."

She smiled then, and his life seemed so much happier. Leaning low, he kissed her passionately. Her hand came up and tangled in his hair, pulling him even closer. They enjoyed each other for quite a while.

__________
It was the day before school was to begin. Severus stood outside the door of the teacher's lounge, hesitating. They were all in there. All of them. And when he opened the door, he'd be met with hateful glances, scowls, and probably cruel words. He deserved all of it, but he wasn't sure how he'd take it at all. He took in a couple of deep breaths and strengthened his Occlumency shields. He needed to seem indifferent to anything that would go on in the room before him.

He placed his hand on the doorknob, hesitating only for another millisecond before throwing it open and stalking through it. He glared at everyone. They were all standing around in two groups. The Carrows were off by themselves glaring at everyone else, and the returning professors were all in a circle. They turned almost in unison and glared right back at him.
"Please take your seats," he told them all.

They moved to the chairs set up around the room. He eyed each of them before speaking again.

"Thank you for all being here."

"As if we had a choice," Pomona said under her breath.

Severus ignored her. "The Ministry wants to see more this year than ever before. They want the students to be prepared in the Dark Arts."

"By Ministry you mean You-Know-Who…"

"Yes, Filius. He is now in charge of the Ministry. There's no reason to deny it. He wants the students to be trained up so they can be potent wizards and witches. As Headmaster, I will ensure that they are being taught what is needed."

"And we're supposed to work under a murderer?"

That had come from Minerva. Severus cringed inwardly, the first of many insults he was sure to hear, and Min was never shy about sharing her opinions. Before he could even say anything, Alecto had risen and was now pointing her wand in Minerva's face.

"Say anything like that again and you'll be sorry!" she snarled.

Minerva gave her a withering look. "You don't scare me, you two-bit gangster. Get that wand out of my face."

Alecto's face filled with rage and she pulled her arm back, about to send a hex at the older witch. Severus was by her side in an instant, holding her arm back.

"Now, now, Alecto. We are all free to express our feelings here. I am not averse to hearing negative comments."

Alecto glared at him, but retreated and sat down.

He looked at Minerva coldly. "Say what you want about me in this room, but when we are among the students, you will show the respect that a Headmaster is due."

Hooch scoffed.

"You have something to add, Rolanda?" Severus snapped.

She gave him a diffident look but shook her head.

"Good… Now then…" He described how the year would go, ignoring the comments quietly made under the professors' breaths. He held his hand out when Amycus stood and glared at a specifically crude thing that Sinistra had said a bit loudly. Amycus narrowed his eyes but sat back down.

"Now, now, Aurora. We can act like adults, can't we? There's no reason to throw around insults anymore."

She glared at him and huffed. He continued, giving a few more rules that everyone was to follow.

"You are dismissed to get your classrooms ready." He spun on his heels and quickly left them all behind. Stalking to his quarters, he entered and warded the door behind him. His hands formed into fists, and he stalked back and forth, enraged. Damned Dark Lord making him do this!

He picked up the lantern on the table and flung it against the wall. It shattered just as Olivia came through the Floo.

"Whoa, are you all right?" she asked.

He turned and glowered. "No, I'm not all right. I have to spend the year being glared at and having my staff mutter under their breath and call me a murderer."

He took some deep heavy breaths as Olivia came up to him. "Oh, darling, I'm so sorry." She pulled him to her. "This is the absolute worst."

His arms came around her and he pulled her close. "Thank you. I'm glad you came when you did. I might have destroyed my entire room had you not stepped through that Floo."

She pulled back and smiled at him, tipping his nose with her finger. "I love you, you know."

He kissed her softly. "I love you, too. I wish you could just live here, but I don't want anyone to find out about you. I won't have you be a target."

"I know. But at least I can be here every night."

"Thank Merlin."

They snogged for a bit before he pulled away. "Will you stay the night with me?"

She blushed. "Thought you'd never ask."

"I wasn't sure that you wanted to move forward like this with our relationship."

"I told you I love you."

He smirked at her. "That you did." He took her hand. "Come on."

She followed him into the bedroom, where they showed their affection for one another throughout the night.

__________
The year dragged on. Severus kept his shields up so he seemed indifferent in front of the students and faculty. At night, he let Olivia comfort him as he slowly fell apart. She built him back up so he could take on the next day. Over and over it happened. Over and over he played the game, day in and day out.

As he sat doing paperwork one day, his Dark Mark burned. He wasn't surprised. The Dark Lord had left him to run the school, and he'd been expecting a summons to report on how everything was going.

He stood and touched his Dark Mark, disappearing and reappearing in Malfoy Manor in front of Voldemort. The Dark Lord moved up to Severus.

"Ah, and how goes the school, Severus?"

"It goes well, my Lord."

"Hmm, that's not what I hear from Alecto and Amycus."

"They are jealous that they don't have the power to run the school, my Lord."

"They say that chaos reigns. Students skipping classes. Disappearing. What are you doing about that, Severus?"

"They are handed detentions when they act out, my Lord."

"Amycus says he hasn't been able to Crucio students for several weeks. Do you fear using that curse against them?"

"Of course not. Amycus would Crucio every student if he had the chance. I want them to learn something when they are serving detention."

"Such as?" He paused. "I mean, can't much be learned from a well-placed Crucio?"

Severus studied Voldemort, trying to figure out what the man wanted to hear. "Yes, of course, my Lord."

"Good. See to it that they are able to teach the children a lesson."

Severus bowed his head. "Yes, my Lord."

"Go."

Severus bowed his head lower and Apparated away back to his office. His lips thinned. He would have to let the Carrows do some detentions now. Perhaps he could hide some of the offenses of incredibly unruly students so they wouldn't know that detentions were being handed out. Of course, they were the ones giving most of those detentions. He'd need to be more visible so that those who got in trouble did so in his presence.

He left his office then. He'd need to patrol the halls much more often. Merlin, the end of the year couldn't come soon enough.

__________
The snake kept attacking, biting him several times on the neck. He fell to the floor. Time slowed to nothing. His eyes strayed over, and Potter was bending over him, taking his tears filled with memories. It took an eternity, but absolutely no time at all before everything went black.

Olivia appeared with a pop, rushing over to him.

"Oh, I waited as long as I could. I hope I'm not too late," she said to herself as she examined Severus. When her necklace had heated, she had the urge to just Apparate away, but Severus had previously advised her to wait in case it took the Dark Lord a while to leave him. She'd waited as long as she could without going insane.

Taking the potion, she poured it down his throat and made him swallow it by massaging his neck, being careful not to disrupt the area where the snake had attacked. She quickly got some Dittany out of her pocket and poured that on his wound. Then she administered a blood-replenishing potion, quickly followed up by another vial of his antivenin remedy. She paused to wave her wand over him. His heart beat faintly, which she was grateful for.

She gave him another Blood Replenishing potion and looked around, finally noting the enormous amount of blood surrounding Severus. It was a miracle he was still alive. The Antivenin he'd been dosing himself with had kept him barely alive until she could come.
She waved her wand around him, but he didn't seem to be any better than he'd been a minute before.

"Come on, come on, Severus!"

She decided to give him one more vial of the Antivenin. Checking his wound, she put some more Dittany on it, fully sealing it. She waited another minute and took his vitals again with her wand. He was finally stabilizing.

Standing, she levitated him, grasped him, and Apparated away to their hidden cabin. She quickly warded the cabin in case Voldemort somehow survived and sought out Severus. They'd have to move quickly, but he needed to mend more and regain consciousness.

She floated him over to his bed and settled him in, sitting on the bed next to him. She took more diagnostics, relieved that he seemed to be getting stronger. She magically cleaned him up and switched out his destroyed robes for some black satin pajamas. Only then did she let herself feel the panic that had been buried deep within her. She laid down beside him and wrapped her arm around his chest, letting the tears come. Crying quietly, she lay there next to him, hoping he would recover. He had to survive. She didn't know how she'd go on if he didn't, but his wounds were severe. Hopefully, the potions would counteract the snake's venom and the blood loss. She worried endlessly as her tears finally lessened, and she drifted off to sleep.

__________
Severus moaned and strained to open his eyes. It took some effort to crack them open. The first thing he saw was Olivia's concerned face hovering over him.

"Severus?"

He opened his mouth to say something, but she put her hand on his chest. "Don't say anything just yet. I want to make sure your vocal cords weren't harmed in the attack. There was so much damage I couldn't tell before it all healed."

He nodded slightly as she waved her wand over him taking diagnostics. "You've been unconscious for two days, but I think that was partly due to the potion and its healing effects. I tried to mend your neck, but I think you'll have a scar, but other than that, you'll be okay. And…" She put her wand away. "Your vocal chords are fine."

"The Dark Lord?" he croaked out.

"It's all over the papers. Harry Potter defeated him."

Severus' eyebrows furrowed. "I thought the boy had to die."

"Well, the papers didn't exactly say what happened, but the Dark Lord cast the Killing Curse and he survived."

Severus got a faraway look. "The Boy Who Lived… Twice."

"Yes, the papers have been all a buzz about that. But it sounds like he played dead and popped up at just the right time and fought him. He won."

"What happened to all the Death Eaters?"

"Some ran, but most are in Azkaban."

Severus closed his eyes and sighed. "I can't believe it's over." His voice filled with emotion. "It's finally over!"

Olivia curled up next to him on the bed and surrounded him in an embrace. "It is, love. You can finally live without being under the thumb of that bastard."

He snuggled into her. "I never thought I'd be free. I was sure I'd be killed first. Merlin… what do I do now?"

Olivia kissed his forehead. "What do you want to do?"

Live… Get away from here… Be with you… forever."

Her eyes misted over. "You'd really want that?"

"Of course. I love you, and you know it."

She pulled back and looked at him. "Damn straight I do. I just wasn't sure if you wanted this… us… forever."

"Why not?"

She shrugged. He reached up and cupped her cheek. "You have been the only thing that has kept me sane. You're kind, understanding, loving, beautiful. I never want us to be apart."

She leaned in and kissed him. "I feel the same about you, except you're not really beautiful. Handsome and rugged, maybe, but I wouldn't go beautiful."

He laughed, wincing slightly as his scar was still healing. "I wouldn't even go handsome," he admitted.

"Severus, look at me."

His eyes drifted to hers.

"You are handsome to me. I love being seen with you. I always want to be with you."

His kiss came suddenly. He was overwhelmed with affection for her. She was everything. Everything. She opened up to him and his tongue plundered her. They were absorbed with one another for a bit before she pulled away.

"Severus, you're just getting better. We can't…"

"I know, but I want you to know how I feel."

She smiled at him and stroked his face. "I do. I love you, too."

He smirked. "All right. Let's just lie here and enjoy being close to each other, all right?"

She nodded and settled back next to him, placing her head on his chest. "Do you feel okay?"

"Not perfect, but almost normal, and I feel better with you here with me."

She smiled into his chest. "I'll always be here for you."

"Thank you, love," he said emotionally.

__________
Severus kissed Olivia awake. She opened her eyes and smiled at him.

"Shall we head out and get some Biscotti for breakfast?" he asked.

"Mmm, sounds lovely—with a cappuccino?"

"Obviously."

They dressed quickly and soon left their flat and headed to the small restaurant across the canal from their home.

It had taken a day before Severus had felt good enough to travel. They'd left immediately, using a Portkey he'd created himself. They'd appeared in Rome and then traveled to Venice. Olivia had secretly rented out a flat there in case they needed to flee. It was in Muggle Venice to avoid attention. They used magic, but only within the confines of their flat or when they Apparated to the magical area of the city.

They hopped into their private gondola and crossed the canal, mooring in front of their intended location—Frattelanza. Severus helped Olivia out of the boat, and they headed into the small restaurant.

They were seated and ordered their biscotti and cappuccino which was served quickly. Severus lifted his biscotti and dunked it in his coffee.

"So, what shall we do today?"

Olivia shrugged. "Oh! We wanted to head out to Marghera and look for junipers and bay laurel."

"You're right. I almost forgot." Severus sat back and folded his arms. "Since we got here, Olivia, it's been so nice. I feel at peace for the first time in my life."

Olivia smiled at him. "You deserve this, Severus. I have to say, I've never been happier. I enjoyed living in London, but I love being in Italy. The people I work with have become like family to me in the six months we've been here."

"And who would have thought that it would be so easy to sell my potions without my own Apothecary. Paolo constantly tells me that my potions are the best in all of Italy, and he's honored to sell them at his shop."

"Bacchetta e Calderone has already become a well-respected brand, Severus. Your potions are sought after everywhere in the country."

"Amazing, really. The notoriety I always wanted but not in my own country."

Olivia considered him. "Does that bother you?"

He shrugged. "My life was very different from what I wanted it to be in Britain. And there was no opportunity for me to do anything like this. Now… Now I can live my life as I see fit, not beholden to anyone."

"I'm glad we could escape from there."

He moved forward and motioned for her hand. She placed hers in his. "And I'm glad you're here with me. It wouldn't be as fulfilling without you," he told her.

She squeezed his hand. "I haven't ever been this happy, Severus."

"Neither have I. Thank you for helping me to feel that."

"Since I met you in that cafė, that's all I've ever wanted for you, love. I'm glad you've finally found it."

"So am I."

They finished breakfast and spent the rest of the day away searching for potions ingredients.

That night, Severus watched Olivia sleeping. He thanked Merlin that she'd come into his life. He'd truly found something he never thought would be possible, and he couldn't be happier. He kissed her forehead lightly before snuggling next to her. He had soon fallen into a peaceful sleep beside her.

FIC: The Homework Conundrum (PG)

2024-01-26T12:24:28Z

Title: The Homework Conundrum
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Three
Characters: Severus Snape, Minerva McGonagall, Filius Flitwick, Albus Dumbledore
Author: goddess47
Rating: PG
Note(s): I have no idea where this came from!
Summary: Sometimes, being a professor can be frustrating when one particular student does not understand the difference between rules and guidelines.

Normally, Severus would have approached Minerva in her office. However, the Slytherin Prefect, Geoff Burke, had just approached him as he was on his way to the weekly staff meeting.

"Minerva, there is a small problem brewing among the first year students," Severus said as he settled into his chair in the faculty room.

"Brewing?" Minerva gave a small laugh. "I didn't think you had it in you!"

Severus ran the statement back in his head and then resisted the groan at the unintended pun.

"Something that needs to be addressed before it becomes a problem for more than you and I," Severus went on.

"Oh. Well, that sounds serious," Minerva frowned.

"Geoff Burke stopped me on my way to the meeting, so the timing is fortuitous," Severus said.

"Geoff is a wonderful student," Minerva said. "You picked well, making him the Slytherin Prefect."

"He had been quite competent in his duties," Severus agreed.

"What does Geoff need?" Minerva asked.

"He brings up a concern that the first year students have brought to him," Severus said.

"First year students?" Minerva frowned.

"The Slytherin first year students have complained to Mr. Burke that one of the Gryffindor first year students is hording the materials normally available in the Library for their current Potions assignment," Severus said. "I have not had time to check the Library to see what may or may not be available but Mr. Burke is a reliable student and not prone to histrionics."

"My dear boy," Albus jumped into the conversation. "I would think a concern like that would be something the students themselves should sort out."

This is why Severus should have talked to Minerva privately. Having Albus involved would likely make the entire situation worse.

"Again, I only have what Mr. Burke has reported but he would not bring this to my attention if the students had not exhausted all other options to resolve the problem," Severus went on patiently. "While I will check on the situation, I am hoping you would speak to the student."

Minerva's eyes narrowed. "First year? Oh, dear."

Severus nodded. "Yes. Mr. Percy Weasley has taken all the copies of the books out of the Library. Mr. Burke cannot prove it, but the assumption is the Mr. Weasley has the books in his room in Gryffindor Tower."

"If the boy is using the books, he should be allowed to have them," Albus put in.

Severus bit back a sigh. "The number and the variety of topics of the books Mr. Weasley has taken is well beyond the scope of the assignment. In previous years, most students need only one or two books to complete the assignment. Mr. Weasley has withdrawn thirty-seven books from the Library."

"Oh!" Minerva exclaimed. But Severus saw her bite back a sigh.

"Minerva, this is exactly the same problem I had with Percy with a Charms assignment," Filius added. "He had taken any Library book he could find that was even faintly related to the assignment."

"I did not hear about that," Severus admitted. "Either my Slytherins managed with what was left or they did not need books from the Library."

"And while the assignment was an essay of ten to twelve inches of parchment, Percy submitted twenty-seven inches, very closely written," Filius said.

"It sounds like Mr. Weasley needs some… guidance in preparing proper homework assignments," Severus said.

"I have spoken to Percy about what a proper homework assignment should be. At least in regards to Transfiguration assignments,," Minerva admitted. "He is… determined to be thorough."

"Perhaps you could persuade his brothers to speak to him?" Severus suggested. "William Weasley is an excellent student."

"Perhaps you should approach Charlie instead?" Flitwick suggested. "While the brothers seem to get along, I suspect Charlie may be a better influence."

"Keeping it in the family!" Albus said cheerfully. "An excellent solution."

Severus had his doubts that the brothers would be a long term solution but knowing that Flitwick had a similar problem with Weasley set Severus to thinking.

"If that is all, we have other topics to discuss," Albus said firmly, bringing the meeting to order.

After the meeting ended, he quietly asked Minerva and Filius to meet up with him after dinner. "If we come at this together, perhaps it will be clearer?" he asked.

Minerva nodded. "Come to my rooms," she said. "I'll have Amber set up tea."

Which Severus had learned would include a generous dollop of whiskey. He nodded.

Since Severus had class with the Slytherins and Gryffindors the next day, and the homework assignment in question was due, they decided he was the person to meet the challenge head on.

"Mr. Weasley, if you would stay after class for a moment," Severus said blandly.

Weasley looked startled, as if he had never been asked to stay after class before. Upon a moment's thought, Severus realized that might be true.

Severus waited for the class to leave before speaking. He was amused that the Slytherins fled eagerly and none of the Gryffindors attempted to stay.

He reached into the stack of parchment and took the largest one out of the stack.

"Mr. Weasley, I am assuming this is your homework assignment, without even looking at it," Severus said.

Weasley's eyes went wide.

"You are misunderstanding the assignment, completely," Severus went on.

"I…" Weasley defended. "I wrote it down, word for word."

"I do not doubt that," Severus nodded. "In fact, if I were to read this," he waggled the parchment, "I would find you did, indeed, answer the questions in the homework assignment."

Weasley looked absurdly pleased at that. Ah! Being the third Weasley son, following William and Charles, could not be a simple task.

"However, it is not done correctly," Severus went on.

"But, I followed the rules!" Weasley said.

"Which were?" Severus asked.

"Eight to ten inches of parchment, using two or more resources from the library," Weasley recounted.

"How long is this?" Severus asked, holding the parchment.

"Thirty inches," Weasley admitted.

"Is that between eight and ten?"

"No, sir," Weasley replied reluctantly.

"And how many resources did you use?" Severus went on.

"Twenty!" Weasley beamed.

"While that is technically more than two, it is far beyond what you needed to do," Severus said. "And, something which will affect your relationship with your fellow students, you removed all the relevant books from the Library."

"Not my fault they were lazy," Weasley got mulish.

"I will remind you that you are living at Hogwarts for the next seven years and it behooves you to get along socially with all of the students in your year, not just the Gryffindors," Severus pointed out.

"The Slytherins whined about me, didn't they?" Weasley rolled his eyes.

"And the Ravenclaws, and the Hufflepuffs, and the Gryffindors," Severus said baldly.

Weasley looked surprised.

"And, in talking to the other professors, you have done the same thing in your other classes," Severus said.

"I need to do well!" Weasley protested.

"Since you seem to like rules, I am being explicit on the rules going forward," Severus said. They had agreed to come up with a common set of guidelines for Mr. Weasley. Which could be applied to anyone, as needed.

Weasey nodded eagerly.

"When you are given directions on the length of an assignment, you will be penalized for every quarter inch you exceed the upper limit," Severus said. "You cannot use more than twice the stated number of outside references in your research. Books cannot be removed from the Library for more than thirty-six hours. Also, your hand writing cannot be smaller than the print on page forty-seven of the Potions textbook." There was nothing but print on that page. No headings, footnotes, or diagrams. Just a simple page of printed words. Words of a readable size.

"But…" Weasley protested. "How can I give complete answers if I cannot go into detail?"

"That is a lesson you need to learn," Severus replied. "I will tell you something students normally learn before they come to Hogwarts. Your professors already know this material and do not need to learn it again. We assign homework to ensure that students complete the assigned readings and pay some attention to important concepts. Homework is not to re-write the textbook or make ground-breaking discoveries. The primary goal is simply to answer the questions in a concise manner."

Weasly huffed. "Are these rules for everyone?"

"They are, actually," Severus nodded. "You have simply ignored the unstated rules and have required that I, and your other professors, since I am speaking on their behalf, make them explicit."

"I don't know how to do this," Weasley admitted.

"Talk to your brothers," Severus advised. "They are good students and are likely willing to help you learn how to do homework properly."

"I need to be better than them," Weasley said softly.

"Then become skilled in the art of brevity," Severus said. He held out the parchment in his hand. "You can start with this. You have until dinner tomorrow to complete the assignment within the parameters you now have."

Weasley took the parchment. "Eight to ten inches? Four resources?" He winced.

"And readable handwriting," Severus added. "Homework assignments do not to be complete, they merely need to be done."

Weasley huffed and stashed the parchment in his bag.

"Anything else, sir?"

"No, that is all," Severus said with a nod.

"Thank you," Weasley said politely and then left the room.

The next day, the submission Severus received was exactly ten inches, included four resources, and was legible. Severus suspected that, if he checked, the writing would be exactly the size of the print of the Potions book. It was also written from edge to edge on the parchment, leaving no side margins. It was a small price to pay, Severus decided.

Although it did make him wonder momentarily about the next Weasley child. He shook his head. One Weasley at a time.

FIC: It's All About Who You Know (NC-17)

2024-01-25T12:30:03Z

Title: It's All About Who You Know
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Two
Character(s)/Pairing(s): Severus & Regulus, Severus/Mulciber, Severus/Avery
Author: themightyflynn
Beta(s): Jess
Rating: NC-17
Click to View Hand jobs, blow jobs, sex for favours.
Note(s): Thanks so much to Jess for the quick beta! And to the poor mod for putting up with my crap!
Summary: Severus knows that to get ahead in life, it's about who you know, not what.

Severus Snape was one of the most intelligent people Regulus had ever known. And that was saying a lot, considering the connections his parents had. Pushing away from the table he was sitting at in the library, he ran his hands through his hair and sighed.

"No, Regulus. Focus."

Regulus frowned. Severus sat in the chair beside him, his head bent over the textbook Regulus was supposed to be studying from. His greasy hair cascaded down, blocking Regulus' view of his face. It was long enough to almost touch the book and the strands clumped together unpleasantly. Shaking his head, Regulus stretched.

"I have been focussing for the past two hours, Severus. Can we take a break?"

"The very fact that you have been here for two hours means I have as well." Raising his head far enough to meet Regulus' eyes, Severus' top lip curled. "If you had paid attention in class, this wouldn't be an issue, would it?"

Scoffing, Regulus glanced around the library. There were only two other tables filled, and those with people he did not care to know. He sighed again. There was nothing and no one here to distract him from his studies.

"It's Muggle Studies, Severus."

"Exactly. Muggle Studies. The one class that makes no difference whatsoever to anyone of any intelligence. And you are failing it."

Regulus pressed his lips together. He had to admit, when put like that, it did sound a little pathetic. And if he failed a class, his parents would not be pleased with him, even if it was the one that made no difference to his future. Still, he had to try to get out of writing the essay himself.

"What would it take for you to do this essay for me?"

He watched Severus carefully, unsure what his reaction to bribery would be. It was difficult for even Regulus to make out what Severus was thinking. Generally, he was able to read people fairly easily, but Severus' black eyes were indecipherable.

"You are trying to bribe me."

It was clearly a statement rather than a question. Regulus nodded slowly.

"I may be, yes. I have always respected your intelligence, Severus. I know this would be easy for you." Hope sparked in his chest that he might have found a way out of doing the essay himself. "Would you be amenable to bribery, if I was trying?"

Regulus watched as Severus sat back in the chair. His eyes were locked with Regulus', and steely as ever. When he leant forward, Regulus held his breath.

"What I want, Regulus, you can never offer me."

Shock rippled through him at the intensity to Severus' voice. He watched as Severus returned his attention to the textbook, his mind racing through the possible meanings of Severus' words. There was one clear possible meaning, but surely he could not have meant… that, right? Regulus knew better than to ask. Letting the subject drop, he bent over the textbook again for a little while. They were nearly at the end of the study session by the time he lost focus again. Regulus just had to finish the conclusion and that would be it. He judged that it had been long enough that Severus would not bite his head off, and so, he tried again.

"So… What would it take?"

Severus sighed. Shoving backwards, he glared at Regulus. "You cannot afford my price, Black."

"My parents—"

"Now, them. They could probably give me what I want, yes. But you are not them." Reaching across Regulus, Severus grabbed his quill and shoved it towards him. "Now, finish this fucking thing so I can leave."

"If it's money you want—"

Regulus was cut off again, this time by Severus barking laughter. He glanced over at Madame Pince, who was shooting them a glare. He smiled apologetically and waved a hand at Severus in an attempt to quiet him down.

"Money? You think I can be bribed by something as mundane as money? Oh, no, Black. Not money." Severus leant forward, causing Regulus to hold his breath. His black eyes glinted in the candlelight. "What I want is power. I want influence. I want the kinds of connections that you are too young to have made yet. I am not doing this out of the kindness of my heart. This tutoring is a favour for your parents. You know them? The Black family members with the power to manipulate others? The importance that allows them to sway people's opinions? The connections to people who…" Severus paused here, smiling. "If I help you, I am helping them, Black. And that helps me. Now, get back to work."

He stabbed one finger down onto the parchment before them. Taking a deep breath, Regulus let it out slowly. Fine. He would do as commanded. He would fall in line. But only because this was apparently what his parents wanted.

This little incident didn't change Regulus' opinion of Severus. In fact, it only strengthened it. If Severus was intelligent enough to be able to at least try to manipulate Regulus' own parents, then there was no doubt in his mind: Severus was the smartest man he knew.

*~*
Severus Snape had clever fingers. The proof of that was clear in the steadiness of his hands when he was making all of those delicate potions he was always playing with. It was also in the elegance of his movements as he cast spells. Some people looked like flailing gorillas when doing spellwork, but not Severus. Leaning against one of the posts of his bed, Mulciber crossed his arms over his chest.

It was the end of their seventh year at Hogwarts. He had spent a decent amount of time just standing there watching Severus over the past seven years, and he wasn't going to stop. Especially when Severus was practicing for his Charms exam in their shared dorm room. Clearing his throat, he waited for Severus to glance over.

"What do you want, Gabriel?"

Mulciber smiled. Severus was the only one to call him by his given name at school.

"What do you think I want?"

"I'm busy."

"You can spare me five minutes."

"Only five? You disappoint me."

Mulciber's smile widened. This was typical of Severus. This arrangement they had was beneficial to the both of them, so he knew he would not be turned down. All he had to do was offer something worth Severus' while.

"I spoke to my father two days ago."

The spell Severus was casting wavered a little. He did not give any other indication that he was paying attention to what was being said. Mulciber knew that there were others that Severus had these kinds of arrangements with, but he also knew that his information was worth much more to Severus than anything the others could offer. He just had to offer something worthy of distracting him from his studies.

"He will set up a meeting after we leave school. There are formalities that everyone must go through with, but this will be a foot in the door."

They both knew what he was speaking of, there was no need to speak it aloud. He watched as Severus cancelled the charm and straightened. Turning, he dragged his eyes down Mulciber's body, sending a tingle straight through him.

"A meeting."

"As soon as you are prepared to go after we graduate. There are preparations that need to be made for the pledging, and they will be put in place at this meeting. We shall join together." The spark that lit Severus' eyes sent a jolt of lust straight through Mulciber. Yes, he was going to get what he wanted. His smile turned heated. "Is that enough for you?"

"I shall make the contacts I need at this meeting? I won't need to jump through hoops like the other… new members?"

Mulciber knew that there was a different end to that sentence. Other half-bloods, is what Severus had been thinking. And yes, it was difficult for known half-bloods to join the cause. But with Mulciber's father's connections, Severus would have no problems. Mulciber shook his head.

"Father has made certain. You will face no opposition." When Severus merely stared at him, he continued, giving away his very last — and most important — piece of information. "He has also made your proficiency with both curses and potions known. There are certain people highly interested in your abilities, Severus."

Me included.

Mulciber nearly breathed a sigh of relief when Severus nodded. He would, of course, not allow Severus to know how much he wanted — needed — this. Clenching his jaw in anticipation, he raised an eyebrow in question.

"On the bed. Undo your fly."

Mulciber grinned. Slipping between the curtains, he did as he was bid. When he was lying on the blankets, Severus moved the curtains aside. He waved his wand, casting his Muffliato charm. Mulciber's blood ran a little faster as he watched Severus' hand move. Biting down on his bottom lip, he shifted on the bed. That got Severus' attention, and their eyes met.

"Keen?"

Keeping their eyes locked, Mulciber rocked his hips upwards. "As always."

This arrangement had been a lifesaver for him this past year, he was certain of it. He, of course, knew that Severus was merely using him to further his own interests. He wasn't stupid enough to think of this as love. And he would go on to marry a nice, pure-blood woman and produce nice, pure-blood children. Right now, however? Right now, he was Severus'. He rarely spoke. Severus, on the other hand, was more verbose than Mulciber had ever heard him.

"Gabriel," he whispered as he closed the curtains and knelt on the bed. "Whatever are you going to do with yourself once we are out of school? Once you don't have someone at your—" Severus paused here to pull Mulciber out of his trousers. "—beck and call?"

Mulciber clenched his teeth. He wanted to close his eyes, but he knew that would be met with disapproval. His breath hissed in through his teeth as Severus wrapped his hand — that clever hand that Mulciber so admired — around his half-hard cock.

"Are you going to get yourself a girl, Gabriel? Or have your family arranged something for you? Some pretty, airheaded bitch who will only put out for you once a month. Twice, if it's your birthday."

Mulciber groaned as Severus twisted his hand. There was only just enough lube on Severus' hand to be sufficient, but that was the way he liked it. The roughness of Severus' touch sped him along towards completion much faster than anyone else ever had.

"Is that who you think about, alone in this bed late at night? Huh?" Severus tightened his grip, increasing the pressure and causing Mulciber to groan again. "The woman you are going to fuck and get fat with your spawn?"

His tone was malicious, but Mulciber couldn't bring himself to care. He shook his head.

"No? What, then? Who is it you dream about when you jerk yourself off here, huh?" Severus leant closer, his face filling Mulciber's vision completely. "Tell me, Gabriel."

He was close, so close. Gasping for air, he thrust up into Severus' hand. "You, you bastard."

The smile Severus offered was triumphant. He leant closer, his hand moving ever faster. Leaning in so his lips brushed Mulciber's ear, he waited until Mulciber was just on the verge of coming before responding.

"I know."

*~*
Severus Snape had the filthiest mouth Godfrey Avery has ever seen. He hadn't been sheltered at all when he was a child, but the words that came out of Severus Snape's mouth were things that he had never heard before. But, he knew, it wasn't just the way Snape spoke that held his interest. He watched as Severus nibbled on the root of a bitterroot, then immediately spat it out.

"Seems fine. What do you want in return?"

Godfrey watched the words forming from Snape's mouth. It had been a while since Severus had required his assistance in locating potions ingredients, and he was just now remembering exactly why he had liked retrieving them for him so much. He pretended to consider the question for a few seconds. When Snape raised an eyebrow at him, he smiled.

"Is it worth a blowjob to you?"

Snape glanced down at the plant in his hand again. Godfrey again watched as he raised it to his mouth and bit off a small piece. He chewed, a thoughtful look on his face.

"I won't swallow."

Godfrey nodded. "Deal."

He followed Snape down through the castle and into the grounds. They both looked around as they exited the Entrance Hall, but there was no one watching. Snape gestured for Godfrey to follow him. He led him across the grounds towards the Dark Forest. There, just far enough inside that they were covered by the gloom that gave the forest its name, he turned.

"Where do you want me?"

Godfrey licked his lips. "On your knees just there."

There was no point in delaying it any longer. This wasn't going to last long, anyway. It never did. Godfrey undid his fly and belt, and let his trousers drop to the ground. Snape's eyes followed them, then dragged up his legs, stopping at the sight of Godfrey's cock. Kneeling down, he licked his lips before glancing up to meet Godfrey's eyes.

"You wanna fuck my mouth? Or do I get to suck you?"

Godfrey didn't have to answer verbally. All he did was step forward and lace one hand through Snape's hair. Snape obediently opened his mouth, allowing Godfrey access. Godfrey smiled.

Using his free hand and some conjured lube, he stroked his cock until he was hard enough. His other hand tightened in Snape's hair, holding him still enough so that his teeth wouldn’t interfere as he guided himself into Snape's mouth. The hot, wet heat sent pleasure shivering through him. His cock hardened fully in Snape's mouth as he began to thrust.

He held Snape's hair in both hands, his eyes closing tightly as the pleasure began to build. The control he had over Snape in these moments was like nothing he had ever experienced before. It was a rush, adding to his excitement as he guided Snape into a new position at a better angle.

True to the agreement they had, Snape didn't suck or try to encourage him in any way. Godfrey enjoyed it this way, as it gave him full control. He moved at his own pace, using Snape's mouth to bring himself pleasure at his leisure. The only exception to this rule was when Godfrey thrust hard and hit the back of Snape's throat. Then, he knew, it was impossible to prevent Snape from gagging, his throat flexing to try to expel him. He pulled out enough for Snape to breathe for a few seconds, then began again. Faster this time, and much more frantic.

He was panting and moaning with each breath, trying to hold on. It was impossible, though. His instincts took over, and he thrust hard, burying his cock into Snape's mouth as he came. He heard Snape gagging again, but couldn't bring himself to care. He was pushed backwards as he finished. Snape leant over, choking and spitting. Godfrey landed on the ground, his softening cock bouncing against his thigh.

"It was worth it for me, Snape. How about you?"

Snape spat on the ground, then cast a charm that gave him a handful of water. Godfrey grinned.

"If this fucking root is worthless, I'll take it out of your fucking hide."

*~*
Severus Snape graduated Hogwarts with high marks in several subjects. Not that his marks made all that much difference to him, because he knew exactly where he was heading in life. Standing up straight, he offered a small smile as Lucius Malfoy stepped forward out of the crowd gathered in the Malfoy Manor ballroom to greet him.

"Severus. How good it is to see you."

Lucius shook the hand Severus held out, his eyes locked with Severus'. Resisting the urge to adjust his robes, Severus offered a small bow in Narcissa's direction as she moved to join them as well.

"I wasn't expecting a welcoming committee."

"Well, how could I resist?" Lucius kept hold of the hand he held, using it to manoeuvre Severus towards the drinks table. "There have been some highly influential people asking after you tonight, old boy. Come along, you must tell me how you know Charles Mulciber. Is he not the father of one of your year mates?"

Severus was unable to prevent the smile that spread across his face. He had spent so long cultivating a collection of people who owed him favours. Or people for whom he had done favours. Now that he was here, in the very room with all of those people gathered together, all his hard work would pay off.

"Well, Lucius," he began, still unable to stop himself from smiling. "It's all about who you know."

FIC: The Friendly Shadow (PG)

2024-01-24T06:01:26Z

Title: The Friendly Shadow
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: One
Characters: Severus Snape, Tobias Snape, Eileen Snape, OC Miss Thompson, OC Antonine Prince
Author: geminisister
Beta(s): Jocose
Rating: PG
Click to View Child neglect, baby neglect, mistreatment of a baby but no details mentioned.
Note(s): Thanks to the organisers and my beta for all of their help.
Summary: This tale is of a child who grows up in an unloving home. One wintry day as he heads to school in the snow, he is unaware that things are about to change forever.

A Baby Is Born:

Eileen Snape refused point blank to have her baby in a Muggle hospital - she failed.

Two weeks old

A baby lies in a pram outside the back door to a house in the rundown area known as Spinners End. Inside, the parents argue, ignoring their newborn’s cries.

The day had been cold to begin with but Eileen Snape was angry and had a sore head so had shoved the battered old pram out the back door, uncaring about the inclement weather.

Neither parent showed any concern about Severus Tobias Snape or that the rain had changed to snow. They continued to bicker back and forth, not even reacting when their child’s screams fell silent.

Ten minutes later, a tall thin dark haired man burst through the back door and entered the house of Tobias and Eileen Snape.

His dark black eyes glared over at the two drunken adults, his brow furrowed and his face contorted with anger at the pair.

“Who the F…” Started Tobias but he was silenced by magic.

Eileen recognised her uncle Antonine Prince, through her drunken haze. She dismissed the bundle in his arms and was more concerned that he knew where she lived. She had forgotten she had sent him a note to say she had a new son, while she recovered in hospital. He later removed their memories but first he inspected the baby’s room and found it wanting.

Eileen could not find a name on the boxes that arrived the following day. There was clothing for a baby plus a new pram, cot with blankets, toys as well as enough formula and bottles to last months. Tobias wanted to sell the lot, but Eileen stopped him. She had a feeling they were being watched.

Three Months Old:

Baby Severus cooed with delight as he lay in his cot. His arms and legs waved and kicked with excitement. He blew a bubble towards the window and then he smiled for the very first time at the shadow.

The now, familiar shape of the shadow in his bedroom always brought a burble of joy to the baby. His smile was broader and he moved more.

The shadow laughed out loud and Severus copied it. This made the shadow join in with him. Severus froze, he heard a sound, his eyes wide with fear.

Eileen got out of bed, she was sure she heard laughter. She stepped into her son’s bedroom but all was silent. the boy was sound asleep.

Six Months Old:

Severus had been wet and miserable and his throat had hurt from crying as his gums were sore. Now, he was warm and dry and no longer hungry or in pain.

He always was happy and content when his shadow friend was around. Severus Snape was aware even at such a young age he had to be careful.

Nine Months Old

Eileen had stormed into her son’s bedroom and found him sound asleep. She often thought he was pretending so poked at him ‘til he woke up. The boy turned and glared at her. Why did her son never smile or laugh? She poked him again, he cried and only then did she walk away.

One Year Old:

Severus clapped his hands together as he sat up in his cot. His teddy had waved at him and also spoke to him. To him it sounded like Nine. He hugged his teddy to him and fell asleep.

Three Years Old:

Severus dragged his favourite teddy with him as he went to the shops with his mother. She had tried to grab it from him but he refused to let it go.

“Nine, Nine.” Severus roared tears welling in his eyes as he kept a tight grip on his teddy.

“I know it is yours you stupid boy.” She snapped. She felt he was too old for teddy bears but when she chucked it out in the bin it somehow came back into the house.

“Nine.” Severus whispered gently into his bears ear and cuddled him. His parents never realised he was not saying mine but nine.

Five Years Old:

Severus loved his pretend friend. He knew his mother and father could not see him. He always appeared when they were out or not nearby.

It was his birthday and he was going to start school the next week. He had been given new clothing for his birthday and Christmas but the friend known to Severus as Nine had made slight magical adjustments to them. His special friend had gifted him with clothing that would grow with him and keep him warm and cool too. It was his secret.

Six Years Old:

Severus only spotted the shadow figure out of the corner of his eye from time to time. He never spoke to his Nine and did miss him. He knew not to speak of his imaginary friend to anyone. Least of all his parents.

He still had that teddy he had named Nine hidden in a hole in his floor. His mum had tried to burn it but he had saved it and squirrelled it safely away. Nine had always said it would keep him safe. Severus knew this to be the truth, but it was his turn to protect his Nine now, from his mother.

Nine Years and Eleven Months Old:

Severus Snape was happy he was inside the school building. He had been glad of the heat and he warmed up while his wet Coat dried off, hanging on the pegs in the warm cloakroom.

Inside his classroom, he was lucky to sit near the radiator and had removed his wet shoes and popped them under his desk and shoved them a little closer to the heat. He hoped they would be dry by break time.

Miss Thompson had seen him slip off his wet shoes, she had seen how wet his feet were. She never voiced out loud that perhaps his socks would be better popped onto the radiator .

The morning break came but due to the snow continuing to fall the class were told to stay inside for the break but were restricted to either being in the classroom or to stay in the cloakroom area. Severus stayed at his desk.

Most of his friends ran off out into the corridor heading to the cloakroom. Only a handful of children remained in the classroom.

He removed his socks and popped them onto the radiator and stood with his back to it hiding them from view. The radiator was toasty hot and the socks steamed.

Miss Thompson reappeared and walked past Severus with a smile, but popped something that looked like a ball onto his desk before walking on. The ball was a rolled up pair of warm thick socks. He smiled over at her as he popped them onto his feet. Then the bell rang, announcing it was the end of their break.

“Attention class,” called out Miss Thompson as the whole class returned to their seats. “Due to the snow being quite deep outside, the headmaster has been advised that those who do not get school dinners should head home now.”

Miss Thompson glared at the boys still standing up whooping with joy. Silence soon came and she continued.

“We are waiting for the school dinner van to come with the dinners. All children who get school dinners are to stay in the class till the dinner bell rings. After you have eaten your dinner you then can head home. We will try to alert your parents if the school will be closed tomorrow.”

Another roar went up of delighted students. Severus never uttered a word, he kept his long hair covering his face. He knew he was better off inside school. Here he was warm and got a dinner that was hot and it filled up his tummy. He never left a crumb on his plate and when others offered their food to him he took it. He did not like broccoli but still ate it.

Miss Thompson left her now much smaller class on their own as she herded the others out of her door and out into the cloakroom to get dressed for the outdoors.

Miss Thompson had set out some games for them to play till the lunch break bell rang. She was a good teacher and rarely if ever had disobedient children. She kept them happy and rarely shouted at them.

She was glad she would be getting home early but worried about Severus Snape. He always looked pale and thin. She knew the school nurse said he was underweight for his age. She had gone to the lost property and hunted out some thick socks for him. She also had popped a thick pair of gloves into his shabby winter coat hanging in the cloakroom. She thrust a scarf around the peg along with a matching black hat.

Severus was hungry. He had not eaten since school dinners the previous day. His mum had given the last of the bread to his father the night before. They had nothing for tea, he went to bed hungry and had the same for breakfast.

The dinner bell rang and he smiled. His stomach groaned as he popped on his warm shoes and headed towards the dining room along with other pupils who remained behind for school dinners.

They sat in their designated seats but no food arrived. then to his bitter disappointment was informed by the canteen lady Miss Fiona that there was to be no school meals that day. The van could not get through the thick snow. There was nothing to eat.

Severus was surprised to find the woollen garments on his peg and inside his coat pockets. He discovered two penguin biscuits too, and quickly unwrapped one and ate it. He ate the second biscuit more slowly and then dropped the wrappers into the waste paper basket. He felt a little better and the ache in his tummy was appeased for now.

He wrapped himself up in his worn coat, popping on the scarf then his gloves and finally the hat. He stood at the open door as the janitor called out to him to hurry up as he had to lock the side gates.

He ploughed through the thick snow. It was thicker than he had ever seen it before. He was glad of the warm garments but by the time he approached his home they were soaking wet. He knew inside would be just as cold as out and unless his mother had obtained some money there would be no food or any form of heating.

He shoved open the unlocked door and entered his home. He called out for his mother but no answer came. He never called out for his father any more. The whole house was empty. It was as empty as the larder.

He had removed his wet coat, scarf, gloves and hat when a pounding came to his door. He knew this could mean trouble. He tentatively opened the door, then swiftly slammed it closed and bolted it.

The old gossip from across the street pounded on his door, informing him and anyone who would listen that his Da’ had been taken away by the Scoffers and his Ma’ was taken away by ambulance. She then with great glee shouted through the letter box to him that the Social would soon arrive to take him away too.

He hid in the safest place he knew. He tucked himself into his bed after scrambling down into a secret hole in his floorboards under his bed and retrieved his Nine.

He hugged his old teddy to him and sobbed. He had not held his Nine for years but the teddy was special. He crushed the teddy into him and howled into it. He shook from being so cold and hungry. He was alone and scared.

Antonine Severus Prince stood at the foot of the bed. He had visited Spinners End often when Severus was a baby and then as a toddler. He had also watched out for him before he went to school but had not seen him for a few years.

He had a connection with the bear he had given Severus for his first birthday. He had seen a grotty teddy in a box that his father, Tobias, had got and had magically exchanged it. This teddy had magic in it only accessible to Severus. This way he could tell when Severus was cold, hungry or needing his help.

As he had arrived in Spinner’s End he had heard the shouting outside his niece’s home. He overheard the mutterings and gossiping from the neighbours, as he entered the Snape residence. He knew his Great Nephew needed his help.

He had intercepted the social workers and managed to magically change their documentation to state that Severus was now living with a relative and was in safe hands, the details were all magically enhanced with a snap of his fingers, and he added a few extra magical items of paperwork so no one would ever come looking for him or his great nephew.

The boy was so thin. He shook with anger and gulped hard as his emotions were all over the place, he loved this child, had since the day he had been born. He would have taken the child away years before but knew or thought he knew that things would improve but alas they had not.

He magically cleaned the boy up, warmed him and repaired his clothing. He gently woke him up but stayed at the end of his bed, he did not wish to scare him.

Antonine could not but notice the way in which the boy clutched at the teddy and he knew never to take it away from him.

“Severus.” He called, gently and softly from a distance.

Severus woke and looked at the man standing in his bedroom. He frowned. He was warm. His clothing had been repaired and he felt good too, he was still hungry but not as much as earlier.

He looked up into the man’s face. Severus felt he knew him. He had long hair like him and dark eyes, his nose was smaller but he looked like his mum.

“I know you!”Severus said standing up slowly then stood his ground, he lifted up his chin and stared at the dark haired man, then held out his hand to him.

“You do know me Severus.” Antonine said, shaking his great nephew by the hand.

“I know you from my memories and from my teddy. His name is Nine.” Severus knew he was safe as he clutched his much loved bear to his chest..

Antonine smiled and pointed at his own chest.

“My name is Antonine.”

“You are nine?”

“Yes I am, I am your Uncle Antonine Severus Prince, Nine to you.” He chuckled . “Take my arm Severus Tobias Snape and I shall take you to my home, your home now. That is if you wish it.”

Severus ran into his arms. He was held within a warm embrace for the first time ever in his life. He knew this man would keep him safe just like he had since he was a baby.

He clutched at the only item he ever wished to keep and nodded as he gripped at the coat of the only person he had ever loved.

“Take me home please.”

And Antonine did exactly that.

TheTeacher:

Miss Thompson was shocked to learn that Severus Snape’s mother was dead, killed by his father.

On Christmas morning she found a wrapped gift leaning up against her back door. Inside the box was a beautiful knitted hat, scarf and glove set in the finest of wool. a gift card lay inside with familiar writing.

Thank you, Miss Thompson for looking out for me. I now live with my uncle and am very happy.
Happy Christmas
best wishes
Severus

Miss Thompson loved the set and found them cosy and warm and the set lasted her whole life long, never discolouring, or wearing out and remained toasty warm. Every time she wore them she was reminded of a student who had thought of her good deed and had rewarded her with a special gift.

No matter where she relocated, a Christmas card always found its way to her from Severus.

FIC: Maybe Not by Accident (PG)

2024-01-23T12:27:01Z

Title: Maybe Not by Accident
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Five
Pairing: Harry Potter/Severus Snape
Author: goddess47
Rating: PG
Note(s): This isn't where I planned on this fic going but it is where my muse went…
Summary: "As we cleaned up Grimmauld Place, the Black Library practically threw a copy of Farmakopoiós at me," Severus explained. "It is an Ancient Greek text that contains information purportedly from Merlin, that has been lost over time."

Harry looked at the stone that sat in a heavily warded velvet lined carved chest the size of a shoe box and then at Severus. The dull grey stone was the size of a child's fist, irregularly shaped, and utterly unremarkable.

They were in a high-security vault in Gringots. It was separate from the Black and Potter vaults, it had to have been something Severus set up. There were a handful of trunks on shelves fitted to the back wall but nothing else in the small vault. Their closet at home was larger than this vault.

"I assume it is special for a reason," Harry said.

"It is," Severus nodded. "Only Ragnok knows what is in this vault and he has taken an Oath of Secrecy. But it seemed important that someone besides us knows what is here."

"That sounds reasonable," Harry replied. "Depending on what it is."

"As we cleaned up Grimmauld Place, the Black Library practically threw a copy of Farmakopoiós at me," Severus explained. "It is an Ancient Greek text that contains information purportedly from Merlin, that has been lost over time."

"What sort of information?" Harry asked, eyes bright.

"How to create a Philosophers' Stone, for one," Severus said softly. While no one was about, it was not something to be spoken loudly about.

"Severus!" Harry breathed. "You did it?"

Severus nodded. "That is what is so special about this stone."

Harry reached out a hand, as if to touch the stone, then took it back. "What… what did you plan to do with it?"

"That is a discussion for us to have, together," Severus said. "Inside a privacy ward."

Harry nodded. "Definitely."

"I assume the book is here?" Harry asked waving a hand at the space around them. They had removed the Black library from Grimmauld Place after the War. It took three years and a series of cleanings, both physical and magical, for the home to be safe and habitable again. Harry had it turned over to Teddy, who was due to graduate Hogwarts this year, as his Heir to the Black fortunes. If Teddy wanted the Black library at some point, it would come to him as the Heir. But the Black Library now resided alongside the scavenged remnants of the Potter Library in their home in Cambridgeshire.

"Yes," Severus nodded. "Although the book is… magical enough to hide itself. If it does not want to be found again for another thousand years, then it will not be found."

"Ah!" Harry gave a small snort. "Did you get what you wanted from it first?"

"I did," Severus nodded.

"Then let us find some privacy and you can tell me all about it," Harry said.

"I think I promised you some dinner first," Severus said. "And a night out."

"Everything has waited this long, it can wait another day," Harry agreed.

They left the Bank and went out into Muggle London for the evening. Severus had reservations at an Italian restaurant they both enjoyed and tickets for a musical at a West End theatre. Theatre was something they discovered they both enjoyed and it was something they never got to do when they were younger. As a result, they went as often as they could.

After breakfast the next morning, they went down to the workroom that extended under the entire house. A block of obsidian sat on the mantle of the fireplace. It served as the ward stone for their home. Severus touched the block and set the extra wards on the workroom.

"What did you find?" Harry asked.

Severus reached for a sheaf of parchment. "The process I used to create the Philosopher's Stone can only be performed once. If one is successful, one has a Stone. If one is unsuccessful, you cannot try again.The rarity of some of the ingredients is what makes them expensive and the process is exacting."

"Interesting," Harry nodded. "It requires commitment to the process, if nothing else."

"There is also a shield that will stop the Killing Curse," Severus said as he handed Harry a parchment. "It takes personal power and conviction. If there's an iota of doubt, the shield will not work."

"Ah! About that…" Harry started.

Severus narrowed his eyes. "Yes?"

The air shivered around them. The woman — if she indeed was a woman — was difficult to look at. Severus' eyes slid off of her without thought. He focused on Harry, who was looking discomforted.

"Yeah, that," Harry sighed.

"Your consort has earned the right to know, my Champion." The words formed in the room, inside Severus' head, in his soul.

"I was just going to tell him!" Harry shot back. "Give me a chance!"

Severus winced. One likely should not talk to gods like that.

"Welcome, Severus Tobias Snape to knowing…" The woman evaporated in a shower of stars and not-merry laughter.

One star fell on the carpet and smoldered slightly. Harry went and stomped on it, to ensure it was extinguished.

"Keep your stars to yourself!" Harry said loudly, obviously frustrated.

"Does this happen frequently?" Severus asked.

Harry turned, startled. "Oh. Well, no. But once is too often."

"Perhaps if you go on with telling me whatever it is I am supposed to know, she will have no reason to come back for a long time," Severus prompted.

"Oh, yes," Harry sighed. "Let's sit for this. It's easier."

Severus took Harry's hand and they went to the small sitting nook in the room.

"The easy part is Dumbledore's wand," Harry said, bringing the wand from what Severus assumed was a dimensional store. Harry balanced the wand across the fingers of his hand.

"I thought that was destroyed after the battle," Severus said.

"It was," Harry nodded. "Then it came back to me. Stupid thing."

"The Elder Wand is not a stupid thing," Severus chided.

Ignoring the rebuke, Harry brought out a stone that looked as unremarkable as the Philospher's Stone Severus had created.

"The Resurrection Stone," Harry said baldly.

Severus held his breath for a moment.

A large, silvery cloak appeared. Harry swirled it about himself and disappeared for a moment. He took it off. "The Cloak of Invisibility."

"Harry!"

"The Deathly Hallows have been re-united and I am the Master of Death," Harry said softly. He sent the Hallows back to their storage.

"Can you die at all?" Severus asked.

"Not until I am ready," Harry said. "Or, if Death herself comes for me. But she's having too much fun right now. Evidently, this is the most fun she's had in centuries. So I don't see her coming for me any time soon."

Ah! That explained the irreverent tone earlier. Dealing with gods on a regular basis might jade one's life view.

"Now that you have done the work to create a Philospher's Stone, you can stay with me for as long as we both choose," Harry said softly. "You had to do that on your own, although I would have pleaded with Death to let me stay with you if you had not been successful."

"Oh, Harry," Severus said. He tugged on Harry's hand and brought Harry into his lap. Harry wound his arms about Severus and leaned in for a soft kiss.

"Oh, I do love a happily ever after!" a male voice said.

"Go away!" Harry said, dropping his head on Severus' shoulder. Harry didn't immediately move, so Severus had to assume this was another being Harry had dealt with at one time or another.

"But now there's even more fun to be had!" the voice said.

Severus looked to see a beautiful man sitting in the chair Harry had just vacated. He was tall, dark haired, and well-dressed in an old-fashioned sort of way. The musical, baritone voice added to the alluring sight.

"Just because your kid approved of Severus, doesn't mean you can just hang out with us whenever you want!" Harry protested.

Kid?

"My apologies for not introducing myself," the man said with a nod of his head. "I am Zirnitra."

Oh.

"Zir, get the hell out of my house!" Harry said. "And make sure you stay out of our bedroom!"

"But you're not in the bedroom!" Zirnitra protested waving a hand.

"Go. Away."

"You are no fun since you got married," Zirnitra complained with a small frown.

"I am not your personal entertainment," Harry said, turning to glare at the man. "Find someone else to annoy."

"But no one else will talk to me," Zirnitra complained.

"And whose fault is that?" Harry challenged.

"Oh, all right," Zirnitra said with a pout. "But call if you need anything."

At least this time the sparkles did not set the carpet on fire. Small mercies, Severus thought.

Harry sighed. "Sorry. But now that you've been approved of, so to speak, Zir will tend to pop in whenever he's bored. Which is too often for someone who is a god."

Severus shivered. Gods get bored? That could not be good.

"Death rarely comes around," Harry said. "So that will be fine. If Zir is bothering you, just tell him to go away."

Severus gave a small grin. "I can have him prepare potions ingredients. By hand."

Harry snorted. "Good luck with that."

"Anything else?" Severus asked. He wasn't sure he wanted an answer to that question.

"I think that is enough," Harry said with a nod.

Severus frowned. "Knowing this, I suspect that Farmakopoiós did not come to me from the Library. Your… friends likely had a hand in that."

Harry nodded. "I wouldn't be surprised." He leaned in for another kiss.

"Since you have barred Zirnitra from our bedroom, we should take advantage of the privacy," Severus purred as he brought Harry closer.

"You have the best ideas," Harry smiled.

FIC: Desperate Refuge (PG)

2024-01-22T09:25:21Z

Title: Desperate Refuge
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Four
Characters: Severus Snape, Sirius Black, Kreacher
Author: goddess47
Rating: PG
Click to View Reference to off-screen canonical abuse by Voldemort on his followers.
Summary: Severus desperately needed a place to recuperate.

All Severus knew was that he needed to get somewhere safe. He was in pain and exhausted. Hogwarts would be safe but Poppy was away and he needed someplace quiet. He went to the next safest place he could think of.

He crept into the house but exhaustion caused him to stumble over the fucking umbrella stand.

"THIEF! HALF-BLOOD! GET OUT OF MY—" the tirade ended abruptly.

"Have to fix that soon…" Sirius Black stopped when he caught sight of Severus, who was now leaning heavily against the wall. And likely panting. "Are you all right?"

"No." It pained Severus to admit that, but he was in so much pain that the admission escaped before he could stop it.

"Bugger. Let me help you…" Black held out a hand. Then realized Severus was essentially frozen in place. "Needs must…" he muttered and came closer.

A warm arm went around Severus' shoulder and guided him to the stairs.

"Kreacher!" Black called. Severus felt himself wince from the raised voice.

"Bad Master called," the house-elf muttered when he popped into the room. Severus felt a flow of magic that was not from Black. "Potion Master hurt bad."

Black was all but carrying Severus. "Fix a room up, please."

"Finally Bad Master polite," Kreacher muttered, then popped away.

"Okay, up the stairs and we can get you into a bed," Black said. "Do you need anything?"

"Have potions in my cloak," Severus ground out. Intellectually, he knew Black was trying to be careful but spots danced in front of his eyes from the jostling. Getting to the top of the stairs took an eternity and Black guided him into an open bedroom.

"Let me help…" Black said, taking Severus' cloak from his shoulders. Black quickly had him down to his underwear and sitting on the edge of the bed. "Where are the potions?"

Severus held out a hand and grunted, "Cloak. Hidden."

Black reluctantly handed him the cloak but Severus didn't have the energy to explain that the pockets would only open to his magic. Severus took out what he needed and tried to hold the cloak out toward Black. He was too focused on the vials in his hand to notice if Black caught the cloak or not.

Severus took a pain potion, a calming potion, half a dose of Skele-Grow, and a sleeping potion. The vials tumbled onto a bed-side table. "Give me twelve hours," Severus forced out as the potions started to work. He grabbed at the covers and fell asleep.

Severus woke warm and comfortable in a way he had not in a long time. He opened his eyes and blearily looked around at the unfamiliar room. Oh. He was in Grimmauld Place. Damn. And Black had helped him get to bed.

The light around the window indicated it was daytime of some sort but that was all he knew. He didn't know where his wand was, hopefully still in his cloak, and he didn't have the energy to cast a wandless Tempus.

At this point, his bladder reminded him that he should get up and at least find a bathroom. Severus moved the blankets aside and sat on the edge of the bed for a moment to make sure he was stable. Someone had put a bathrobe on the bedpost and Severus gratefully pulled it on. He tottered out of the room to the bathroom that was luckily just across the hall. He relieved himself and then splashed water on his face.

He jumped slightly when Kreacher popped into the room.

"Potion Master have time for shower," Kreacher said. "Clean clothes will be in bedroom."

"Thank you." Severus had to clear his throat more than once to get that out.

"Bad Master says food will be in library so you do not have to climb stairs," Kreacher sighed.

Severus nodded. "I know where that is. Thank you."

Kreacher popped out.

The hot water was plentiful and the towels were warm and fluffy. Even better than the towels in his room in Hogwarts. Not that he would tell anyone that.

His discarded underwear had disappeared, but the bathrobe remained on the hook on the back of the door. Severus wrapped the bathrobe around himself and went across the hall to the bedroom.

As promised, his clothes had been cleaned, repaired even, and were waiting for him on the bed. He took half a dose of pain potion, he'd take more later if he still needed it. But the sleep and the hot shower had helped immensely.

He dressed and looked longingly at his cloak for a moment. He took his wand out and put it in a pocket but then lay the cloak back on the bed. Sod it. This was not a time to be proud.

"Kreacher?" Severus called.

"Potion Master called?" the house-elf popped into the room.

"Is there a… cardigan? I don't want to wear the cloak just yet but the house is cool," Severus admitted.

"Bad Master keeps house cool," Kreacher admitted. He popped out and then back in. "Try this." He left four folded cardigans on the bed.

"One should be sufficient," Severus said. "And thank you for taking good care of my clothes."

"Kreacher is a good elf," he grumbled before popping away.

One of the cardigans likely belonged to Walburga, it was definitely feminine in style and cut, but one was definitely a man's cardigan, a deep navy color and it fit reasonably well. Severus buttoned up the cardigan and went out into the hall to find his way to the library.

Black was not yet in the library, so Severus took advantage of that to browse the shelves. He knew the Black family library had tomes that were not available elsewhere. He suspected they had a copy of Farmakopoiós, an ancient Greek potions recipe book. Lore about the book said it contained directions to create a Philospher's Stone and how to shield from the Killing Curse, all of which have been lost over time.

"You look better," Black said, startling Severus.

"I… I did not hear you come in," Severus admitted.

"Find anything interesting?" Black asked. "Sometimes the library will give you what you are looking for."

"Not today, unfortunately," Severus admitted.

"Come," Black invited. "Kreacher has brought lunch. Well, actually, he brought you lunch, which he is allowing me to share with you."

Severus snorted. "I did not check the time. It is only lunchtime?"

"Late lunch," Black replied with a casual shrug. He cast a Tempus. It was half two in the afternoon. Good. He was not expected back to Hogwarts until just after dinner time.

"Then let us see what there is," Severus said.

Severus ate heartily of soup and sandwiches, knowing he needed the sustenance.

"You were in pretty bad shape last night," Black commented.

Severus nodded. "The Dark Lord is… unhappy with something. He was already in a rage when I arrived and he was mostly inarticulate. It was a small group and everyone suffered due to his bad mood."

"You looked like it was a pretty awful bad mood," Black commented.

"He is unpredictable," Severus admitted. "Not being able, or perhaps unwilling, to talk makes it even more difficult." He drank some tea that he had laced heavily with sugar for the energy it would give him.

"Do you need anything else?" Black asked. "I guess you have potions but, well, anything else?"

I want to be free! Severus thought to himself. Not for the first time.

Although he realized that Dumbledore had Black tied to this mausoleum. Dumbledore refused to fight for Black's freedom and would not explain. They could use someone like Black in so many better ways.

Severus shook his head. "No, thank you. I need to go back to Hogwarts soon." He gave a wry grin. "There are papers to correct before class in the morning."

"I don't envy you that," Black laughed. "You're welcome to stay for a bit. If you need…" That last part was hesitant.

"I may do that," Severus replied. "I rarely have a chance to do nothing."

"I've become an expert at that," Black sighed. "But I do understand." He stood and said, "Stay as long as you like. I usually spend the afternoons with Buckbeak. It helps keep him settled."

"Thank you," Severus replied. "I need to be back to Hogwarts just after dinner."

Kreacher brought another meal before Severus left but Black did not return. Severus did not remember to take off the cardigan before he left. He hung it in his closet at Hogwarts and made a mental note to return it the next time he went to Grimmauld.

The next morning at breakfast, he had been up too late correcting papers, an unknown owl brought Severus a note.

That cardigan belonged to Regulus. Keep it in his memory but take good care of it.

FIC: Advanced Potion Making by Libatius Borage (PG)

2024-01-21T12:21:39Z

Title: Advanced Potion Making by Libatius Borage
Type: FIC
Age-Range Category: Three
Characters: Severus Snape, Irma Prince, Minerva McGonagall, Filius Flitwick
Author: goddess47
Rating: PG
Click to View Implication that Dumbledore may not be a good Headmaster.
Summary: Severus is searching for a specific book in the Hogwarts Library and needs some help finding it.

"Madam Pince…" Severus started.

"You are a Hogwarts professor now. You can call me Irma," the Librarian said firmly.

Severus took a small breath. The transition from Hogwarts student to Hogwarts Professor felt more than slightly awkward. He was so much younger than all of the rest of the staff and felt wildly out of place. He wondered how long it would take to get used to it.

The Dark Mark on his arm was, at best, no help and, at worst, a hindrance to him inside the school. No one spoke of it but he knew Dumbledore made sure the others knew it was there.

"Irma," Severus nodded. "The Headmaster has told me that there are at least three additional copies of in the Library, yet I cannot locate even one," Severus said.

"That is odd," she said, tilting her head in thought. "Even if the books are mis-shelved, you should be able to locate them."

"Which is why I am asking for your assistance," Severus said patiently.

She stepped into the center of the Library, held up her wand and said, "Advanced Potion Making." She wriggled her wand. "Finite." She turned to him. "There is something there."

"It is not the Borage book," Severus said.

"Is it important to be that specific book?" Irma asked.

"I need to ensure there are enough texts for the class I will be teaching," Severus explained. "The book has recently gone out of print and Mr. Flourish has warned me that, after this year, that there may not be enough books for students who are studying for their N.E.W.T.s."

"Then choose a new book!" Irma waved a hand.

"That is the book the Ministry recommends students use to study for the exam," Severus replied. "I do not see a change in that, at least not immediately."

Irma sighed. "The Ministry is short-sighted, as always," she said. She frowned for a moment. "Oh! Check the Ravenclaw common room. Filius usually checks for Library books but, especially if it they had any inkling that it would be out of print, the students may have hidden it for their own use."

"Do they do that often?" Severus asked.

"The Ravenclaws do it most often but you may want to check Slytherin, also," she shrugged. "Even Hufflepuff and Gryffindor students have been known to hoard books."

"Excuse my ignorance but are the books in the Hogwarts Library entailed to the Library?" Severus asked. "If so, I assume you do a recall in the summer."

"They are and I do a recall but, well, we teach magic," Irma shrugged. "Books outside of the Restricted Section have a lesser entailment charm on them. A talented seventh-year could break the charm."

"What good is the entailment then?" Severus asked, trying to be patient.

"The entailment charm works most of the time," Irma replied. "Students rarely take books that are not textbooks and, when someone notices, we replace them."

"Except this book is now out of print," Severus pointed out. Again. "It cannot easily be replaced."

"Oh. Yes, that might be a problem," Irma said, seeming to finally understand the problem. She dug through a file cabinet and handed him a parchment. "Fill this out and I'll take it to the Headmaster to see if we can invest in more copies of the book."

"Thank you," Severus said as he took the parchment. "What kind of a book budget is there? There may be other books the Library should have."

"Oh, there is no set budget," Irma replied. "I just ask the Headmaster for things and sometimes we get them, sometimes we do not."

"How can anyone plan on books for their students to use?" Severus asked in frustration. Not that it was her fault, but it seemed that Dumbledore had his own blind spots.

"There are lots of books about everything," she said, waving a hand. "It's usually not a problem."

"I…" Severus closed his mouth and took another breath. "Thank you, again."

"Any time," Irma replied easily. She went back toward her office, leaving Severus standing alone in the Library.

Severus decided to start in Slytherin. It would give him some new insights about the dormitory space, even though he had lived there only a few years ago.

He went through some of the hiding spaces he already knew about. He found some left behind personal belongings, moldy food, and a forgotten case of butter beer that had gone stale. He vanished them all.

He spent more time in the girl's dormitory, since he had not been allowed in those rooms when he was a student. He didn't find anything interesting but he did note that the rooms were not ready for students, and it was already the middle of August.

"Wynde!" Severus called the Slytherin house-elf.

"Master Severus calls?" the elf asked.

"As you are aware, this is my first year as Head of House," Severus said. "When are the rooms made ready for the students?"

"Oh! That happens soon!" Wynde bobbed. "We wait until a week before, so there is little chance for dust to collect. It stays fresher that way."

"Good to know," Severus replied. "I am looking for any hidden Library books that may not have been returned to the Library. I have checked the places I know about but want to make sure I have not missed any."

Wynde considered for a moment, then popped away. She came back and shook her head. "No Library books." She wrinkled her nose. "I clean out other things."

"Thank you for checking for me," Severus said, not really wanting to know what she might have found.

Wynde giggled at being thanks and popped away.

Severus waited patiently for dinner, to ask the other professors as a group. Dumbledore was away somewhere, doing whatever he did when he was not at Hogwarts. As a result, dinner with the other faculty was largely informal.

"I have talked to… Irma," Severus said, bowing his head in her direction. "I have recently learned that the Ministry approved book for Advanced Potions is now out of print and that the copies that are supposed to be in the Library are missing. Irma suggested that students may have hidden copies away in the common rooms for their own use."

McGonagall frowned but Flitwick nodded. "Yes, the 'Claws often do that. I will make an effort to keep an eye out for any stray Library books."

"I did ask the Slytherin house-elf to check any hiding places in the dormitory," Severus prompted. "That was the most efficient and it let the elf clean some of the spaces out."

"Good idea," Flitwick replied.

"Cleaning up the dormitories is usually completed the week before students return," McGonagall added.

"The Slytherin house-elf informed me of that," Severus nodded. "Although I did find moldy food, so perhaps there should be at least a cursory check soon after the students leave for the summer."

"That is supposed to be done," McGonagall sighed, "but requesting that check is up to the Headmaster. I will speak to Albus and see if we can't get some checks performed earlier."

"Good to know," Severus nodded.

"Out of print, you say," Flitwick frowned. "What will you do?"

"It is the Ministry-approved book," Severus shrugged. "I do not know what it will take to have that changed, but I suspect that is onerous."

"Too true!" Flitwick laughed.

"Worse comes to worse, I will make copies for students as they enroll in the N.E.W.T. classes," Severus said. "Flourish and Blotts will have enough books for this year, it is in the future that will be a concern."

"I would think someone would be willing to make copies of the book available, especially if it is the Ministry-approved text," Irma replied.

"Ah. But you are making sense," McGonagall put in. "I am not sure I have ever heard the words sense and Ministry in the same sentence."

Severus snorted. "Too true."

"Send me a note as a reminder and I will bring it up with the Headmaster," McGonagall offered. "I am not sure what he can or will do about it, but it cannot hurt to ask."

"I will," Severus nodded. "Thank you."

McGonagall finished her meal and stood. "Well, I still have a lot of work to do. I will see you all at breakfast."

"Don't stay up too late, Minerva," Flitwick chided.

"I won't," McGonagall replied. "Good night, all."

"Good night," Severus said to the others.

He left the dining hall and went back to the Potions lab. While Slughorn had left the lab in reasonably good shape, there was still a lot to do before classes started.

ART: Nineteen (PG)

2024-01-20T11:17:03Z

Title: Nineteen
Type: Art
Age-Range Category: Two
Character: just Snape
Artist: sigune
Rating: PG
Click to View TBA.
Note(s): UniPin extra fine brush pen, Cotman and Winsor&Newton watercolours on Arches Hot-Pressed paper (13x18 cm). I used a reference photo of a skinny guy, because that was really quite useful XD - I usually make own my reference, but let's face it, I'm neither skinny nor a guy.

ART: It's a Boy! (G)

2024-01-19T11:10:18Z

Title: It's a Boy!
Type: Art
Age-Range Category: One
Characters: Severus, Eileen, Tobias
Artist: milotziherself
Rating: G

FIC: Smouldering Luck (NC-17)

2024-01-18T12:45:04Z

Title: Smouldering Luck
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Five
Pairing: Severus/Hermione
Author: phoenix_fancies
Beta(s): auntlynnie
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Ten years after the final battle, Severus and Hermione meet at Hogwarts for the Remembrance Day festivities. Ever the savvy potioneer, Severus finds fate turning in his favour.

It was a fine spring day for those gathered on the tenth anniversary of the Battle of Hogwarts. The castle was done up for the occasion, and many a witch's hat was traded in for something of a more creative or celebratory statement.

While robes of every colour made the attending crowd appear as a field of flowers, Severus Snape watched the proceedings from just inside the Forbidden Forest, a shadow of black on black amongst the trees.

He had been invited, and he had even considered attending. However, although time and distance had changed some minds, he didn't feel quite confident enough to attend properly quite yet. Severus, himself, needed a bit of convincing after all that had happened during the first four decades of his life.

As the last of the speakers — someone Severus had always found to be long-winded — took the lectern at the head of the crowd, Severus let his eye wander over the crowd.

It was a large gathering, probably the largest since they had begun doing these five years ago. There were children getting restless whose only notion of all that had happened would be from their history lessons.

While some were taller, seven or eight years old, perhaps, more and more were young. The baby boom was already beginning.

Arthur and Molly Weasley sat a bit back from the front, wrangling some of these children. He could easily pick out Potter's children. They were the only dark-haired ones among the lot.

The audience began to clap a moment, and Severus turned his gaze back to the raised dais. However, the speaker began to circle his point once more, and Severus took a deep breath. Many in the crowd seemed to do the same.

Seated behind the speaker was Harry Potter, the hero of it all. Ronald Weasley sat to his right, a pretty and very pregnant lady on Weasley's right, seeming to bask in the fame by proxy. Ginevra Potter, formerly Weasley, sat on Potter's left side. Hermione Granger was the third of the heralded trio, sat next to Ginevra. Granger appeared to be there without a guest, however. The chair next to her was vacant but for a floating scroll. Severus could see a portrait drawn on it, and although he wasn't close enough to see the detail, he suspected the portrait was of him.

This was optimal for Severus, and his next move.

Hermione Granger had saved his life, for better or for worse. The snake hadn't killed him. Instead, it had paralysed him as snakes sometimes did so they could return at their convenience.

Granger had doubled back for him after it was all over and finding Severus not quite dead, got him to a safe place. After, having worse than no reputation and no idea what he was supposed to do with this new lease on life that he'd never anticipated having, Severus had moved to Wales as soon as he was granted parole from Healers (and the Ministry).

He found a Muggle restaurant that looked like it would employ folks who couldn't really provide a CV. Severus could chop, boil, or stir as well as anyone. He quickly rose from the noble role of dishwasher to second sous chef. While the fare when he had arrived had been more of a glorified chippy with a fancied-up dining area, Severus had told them that a pot of soup was always in order, and it could be made of scraps if need be. Then, as his appetites returned, Severus insinuated more than a few dishes onto the 'specials' board.

After five years, they tried to make him the first sous chef, but Severus refused, even threatening to leave if they pushed the matter. Since he was some kind of 'wizard' in the kitchen, managing to shine up and fix nearly anything he set his sights on, they accepted his conditions.

It had been a cathartic time, building something up with his hands as he put himself back together.

In the beginning, being on his feet for a full shift would knock him on his arse from the time he got home until the time he had to leave for work again. Severus nursed himself back to life as he reimagined the restaurant's menu.

Now, he was considering opening a restaurant in the wizarding world and starting an actual life. It would be a very intricate matter, all things considered. Those who had reviled him were less fervent, now, but he could not put his stake in the ground of 'they don't hate me so much.' He needed a partner, maybe one who would procreate with him. Beyond those who were directly against him, most wizards and witches generally preferred not to think about Severus at all. Very few took a positive interest in him.

Severus hoped the small few who had checked in on him would be the bedrock of the next phase of his life. Granger had been among them. Seeing her attending the ceremony sans partner, Severus was ready to take the next step in his plan: courtship, of a sort.

Severus did not relish the idea of taking up with a witch his own age. There was, invariably, simply too much history there. The thought of dating someone half his age or less made him uneasy or perhaps even nauseous. It also made him annoyed. He did not particularly want to listen to the prattle of a twenty-two-year-old, no matter how big her tits may be.

This left witches who had come through Hogwarts while he had been a professor there. The resulting pool of potential paramours was not the most optimistic.

However, Granger clearly wasn't popping out Weasley babies with Ronald as had seemed the probable outcome. She had saved Severus's life. They were more than a bit cordial — definitely not strictly polite in their doings which included post both magical and Muggle. If Severus knew anything about her, which he thought he did after nearly 20 years of exposure to her, he thought she might be keen to try, at least.

He moved around the edge of the Forbidden Forest toward the spot on the north side of the castle where they had taken to finding each other after these things and waited.

Hermione Granger could not get through this thing fast enough. So many of her friends and peers had children and people were starting to notice that Hermione was slow to follow suit.

What else had she been doing, anyway? Saving the wizarding world? Fruitlessly searching for her parents in Australia? Returning home to their house in England to find them there? Reconnecting with them and taking the time to let them fully into what had been happening? That's right; she'd been doing nothing at all whatsoever.

As she and her parents got to know each other again, and she let them take care of her, something that had been a real challenge after she had been taking care of Harry and Ron all this time, Hermione had had a bit of a collapse.

She still put on a strong front for her two best friends and all the wizards and witches she considered as good as family, but Hermione had moved home when she was twenty-one, and had only gotten a job when she was twenty-six, moving into her own place just last year.

Hermione was glad to have taken the time, although the concerned looks regarding her continuing lack of partner and progeny were not being concealed well, if at all anymore. Apparently, contributing her whole adolescence to "the cause" hadn't been enough for them.

Gathering a tray of nibbles as she wended her way through the crowd, she finally was able to get free and find Severus.

She had really thought he would attend properly this year. She had saved the seat next to her for him, in fact. If he wasn't in their meeting spot, she would hex his arse to kingdom come. He was the only person who made these things tolerable anymore.

As she rounded the corner to their spot, Hermione couldn't help but smile at finding him waiting.

She also had to slow her pace. He was different this year. He had cut his hair short, and streaks of grey at his temples gave him the air of a man of mystery. He was dressed full Muggle, nice black trousers and a very well-tailored black button-up shirt.

He was smoking something, which he typically did at this sort of thing. When he noticed her, he exhaled smoke from the side of his smirk. "Granger," he said, peering at the tray of nibbles floating along behind her.

"Severus," Hermione replied, reaching to trade what she had brought him for what he was smoking.

He pulled it away a bit. "It's different this year. Not just relaxing." Severus caught the tray of food with his free hand. It was gliding away from her on its trajectory toward him. He barely broke eye contact with her.

"What's this?" Hermione folded her arms. He was… acting peculiarly.

"Run of the mill inhibition. What do you say?"

Hermione gave him a stern look for a moment, but then she shrugged. She was certain it couldn't make the afternoon any worse. She took what he had brought and pulled a long drag from it before resting it on one of the stones that was jutting out from the castle wall. She held her breath a moment and then exhaled. Finally, she chased it with one of the very fancy chocolate biscuits she had brought over.

Severus tucked in to the food.

She waited him out. Hermione had been looking forward to this bit most of everything today, and now her curiosity was piqued.

When the tray was empty, Severus spelled it to the kitchens. "Now, then." He looked at her, a small grin beginning to spread across his face.

"Do tell. What are we un-inhibiting ourselves for?"

"I'm going to ask you to marry me, but probably not for a few months yet."

"Ha!" Hermione laughed. The suggestion made her heart warm, but she was certain he couldn't be serious. When she opened her eyes, however, he was leering at her tits, smoke slowly pouring from his nostrils. "You can't be serious," she said, stalling this strange twist her day has taken.

Severus licked his lips. "You're not attached. It would be an understatement to say that I am not attached. You are a lauded yet missed part of the wizarding world."

Hermione scoffed, but that didn't stop him.

"I am a lauded but not-at-all missed part of the wizarding world. I want to come back, but I don't think anyone is really ready yet. Your tits look great. Why didn't you wear a fancy hat like everyone else?"

The last two bits of his speech absolutely confused Hermione, and she shook her head as if trying to clear the cobwebs. "How much did you smoke before I got here, Snape?"

He shrugged. "I've been thinking about it for a while. You're not so goodie-two-shoes, you know. Behind the school smoking with an older boy."

Hermione pursed her mouth.

"I have a room at the Hog's Head."

"I did not come to Hogwarts to have a tumble with you in the Hog's Head," Hermione declared.

Severus folded his lips together, eyes shining victoriously.

"What," Hermione demanded. It was not so much a question, but a verbal parry. She knew that he had caught her out.

Inhibition was a curious thing. Of course, it had loosened his tongue so Severus could shatter the metaphorical glass wall that had been keeping him and Hermione at a "respectable" distance.

However, Severus now heard himself laughing, dare he say chortling in a way he had not done in quite some time. "You've been having dreams about me."

"How can anyone be in a relationship with a Legilimens? People have dreams about other people all the time!"

"You're terrible at lying. How did you get away with it all while you were in school? Was it because Potter and Weasley were just more noticeably miscreant than you?" Severus watched Hermione cross her arms, inadvertently pressing her tits together.

"Obviously, we 'got away with it' because Dumbledore was so far up his own arse when it came to Tom Riddle that he couldn't guess there was a fucking basilisk in the basement!"

Once the words fell from her lips, Hermione's hands clamped over her mouth. She spun around to where the partygoers were still going, clearly feeling like she was going to get caught and expelled for saying such a thing. When she turned back to him, she was wide-eyed, hands still over her mouth.

"Hermione."

Like a bird, her eye turned toward him.

"I don't need to be a Legilimens to notice how you positively ogled me when you got here."

Her only response was to blink at him one time.

"We don't have to go to the Hog's Head."

Two blinks.

"Do you need to say your good-byes?"

One blink.

"Off you pop. Mine is the room on the third floor."

Severus reached for his joint as he watched Hermione turn on her heel, that glorious chortle returning as she walked away.

Hermione was trembling like a leaf. She could not believe what was happening. She could not believe she was meeting Snape in the Hog's Head for a tumble.

She could not believe that she had told the boys she didn't feel well. It only worked to her benefit that she had to cover her hands with her mouth to stop herself from saying something sharp to Ron's wife.

She liked Ron's wife just fine. It wasn't her fault she was an absolute ninny.

Luckily, no one seemed to notice Hermione as she walked through the restaurant that was the first floor of the Hog's Head. She got to the stairs that led up to the rooms and then to the third floor quick as a blink. She raised her hand to knock, but the door unlatched before her knuckles could make contact.

She took a deep breath, trying to dispel any of the countless Snape-based imaginings she had had in her dreams over the last few years. When she got through the door, he was notably not sprawled across the bed, nude but for a well-positioned bedsheet.

He was just sitting in the armchair reading, a wildly wide smile on his face.

Hermione closed the door. "Hi," she croaked. She barely heard it herself.

"You don't need to be nervous." Snape tried to wipe the smile off his face, but it seemed that he couldn't.

Hermione cleared her throat once and then again and then a third time before feeling like she could actually speak. "I know we aren't best friends or anything, but I quite like exchanging owls with you and everything, even if it's not very often. It would be a shame to spoil that because you smoked something and let this mad idea out." Severus put the book on the little table by the chair. Then, he opened his arms in invitation.

Hermione could feel her cheeks blazing hot, even back to her neck and behind her ears. Without fully meaning to, her feet moved forward, and then she found herself in his lap.

"Hermione," Snape said quietly.

"Yes?"

"Am I not a potioneer?"

"Yes?"

"What could I have possibly added to that doobie that could make this go so well?"

"I don't know?" His fingers touched her jaw ever so softly.

"I steeped it in Felix Felicis."

Hermione felt her nervousness fall out, softening her muscles. Her weight settled onto him. "I didn't know you could do that."

Then, his mouth was on hers. His hands slid around to her back, and he pulled her shoulders close. Her hands, trapped in their nervous pose, rested on his chest.

Severus spent a long time kissing her.

As she began to relax, Hermione's hands pressed up from his chest to his shoulders. Then, she had a thought. She pushed away from his body to say, "I had some, too, then."

"Is it your first time?" Severus asked, bending so his mouth hovered by the collar of her dress as his thumbs slid down the sides of her spine. Then, they moved up, turning one of her shoulders away from him. His mouth was on her neck.

"With Felix Felicis, yes. Having a man's nose between my tits, no. I just never thought to use a potion that way. I didn't know it could be done."

"I can do a great many things you probably don't know."

"Don't boast." Hermione pushed her hands into the short crop of his hair, moving his mouth to the other side of her neck.

"Bossy." Severus moved his mouth back to hers, and he started to pull the top of her dress down. Hermione remembered wondering if this was the right thing to wear today. It was a little showier than she usually wore to these things. "There's a zip in the back," she instructed.

Severus's mouth was following the neckline of her dress as it moved lower while he pushed it down. "Don't argue with Felix." Then, his hands moved under her arms, grabbing the sides of her dress as well as the strapless bra she was wearing, shoving them down to expose her chest.

Hermione began panting with exhilaration. Thoughts spun around her head until Severus pressed her back, cradling her in his left arm while his mouth moved from one breast to the other. Then, all she could do was close her eyes and think about what he was doing.

"Bed," Severus said while moving back to the other side. He didn't seem very urgent about it, although his tone was very certain.

"'K." Hermione didn't move from her position at all. His mouth on her breast was stopping all thoughts beyond "more."

However, moving his hands to her hips, Severus pushed her off his thighs. He helped her stand with his mouth on her nipple.

Bracing herself with a hand on either armrest, Hermione let Severus continue to suckle at her.

Soon, his mouth pulled away so he could slither from the chair. When he was kneeling on the floor, he ducked under the skirt of her dress.

Hermione felt her knickers being pulled down her thighs. She tried to remember what she had worn, but it was all lost when his tongue slipped between her folds. He began to suck and lick her, his arms coming around her thighs to hold her in place.

Hermione looked between her legs, but she couldn't see him at all. Her thighs began to twitch as standing up took more of her focus.

"Kneel on the chair." Severus said, breaking contact only long enough for him to sit on the floor, his head resting on the front of the cushion. Then, her knees met the chair cushion, and she was sitting on his mouth, grinding against him as much as he was licking and sucking her.

As she settled into what he was doing, Severus began to slow his pace. "I'm too old to contort like this." Severus took two more long licks from her.

She felt him move from beneath her, loudly catching his breath a moment as he caressed her thigh. Looking behind her, Hermione could see his hair for a second. "You did recommend the bed a moment ago."

She watched him stand, push one hand through his hair, and reach for her skirt.

"That would ruin a positively spontaneous romp, though." He began to lift her skirt, moving it to reveal her legs. "We have plenty of time to fuck in a bed. Felix wants this to be fun, don't you think?"

"Open your shirt," Hermione said, moving to a more stable position kneeling on the chair. She turned to watch him work through the buttons, his eyes roaming all over her body. The little glimpses of his chest and belly spurred her on. His hands moved lower, toward his belt and his obvious arousal.

"Carry on, then," Hermione smirked, turning away from him to get ready for the next bit. She heard the buckle of his belt opening, and fabric hit the floor. Her back was covered by her dress as Severus moved into position behind her.

Then, in one smooth push, he was in her.

"Yes!" Hermione shouted without meaning to. Embarrassment felt hot on her cheeks and behind her ears. Her eyes squeezed shut, waiting for him to move.

Her loud affirmation of his spearing her was satisfying for Severus on so many levels.

Her thighs and breasts and skin were all ripe under his mouth. Her wet cunt around him felt astonishingly good. His odd plan coming to fruition felt like the luckiest bit of it all. They hadn't even undressed yet.

Severus, not moving his hips, folded over her back. "Yes?" he asked into her ear.

"God, yes."

His hands moved to her breasts, pressing them against her body. "What will they say, though?"

"I don't care."

"You don't care." Severus pulled his hips back and pushed in again, hearing both of their voices moan as he moved.

"I don't care!"

Severus loosened his grip a moment before gently rolling her nipples just slightly.

Her hips pushing back into his stole his breath.

After a moment, he whispered, "You like this. You want to keep going."

"Yes. More," Hermione pushed her hips back again.

He pulled her nipples a bit, feeling her back arch away from his chest. "I could fuck you like this every day. Look at you." A shiver went down her spine, and Severus let go of her breasts, moving to stand behind her. With his hands on her hips, he started to work a steady rhythm. Sweat began to drip down his back, and he imagined what they might look like, feverishly coupling right in front of the door to the rented room.

Her moans seeped back into his thoughts, and Severus reached for her breasts again. He held her up, supporting her weight.

"Hermione," he said in a quiet voice.

She hummed in response, her focus more on what was happening between her legs.

"You are astonishingly good to fuck." Severus kept his rhythm as best he could.

Hermione's jaw opened as if to reply, but all that came out was a pleased whine.

"If you keep making that noise, I'll finish before…," he said, trailing off as her hands moved to rest over his.

She was still helping him keep rhythm, but it was mostly him now. Severus slowed his pace so he could manage it.

"Do you want me to finish before you?"

"Yeah." Hermione turned her head back a bit. "Finish."

"Does it make you feel sexy, Hermione? Making me finish first?" Severus slowed his pace a little more, but was much more intentional with his thrusts.

"Yeah!" Hermione almost shouted into the room.

"Did you think I wouldn't want to fuck you? Did you think you couldn't seduce me?"

"Yeah!" Hermione whined, and Severus heard her voice break a bit.

Severus moved her hands to the back of the chair, holding them under his. He was bent over her back again, and his mouth beside her ear. "Oh, I want to fuck you. After dinner when you invited me to your flat. I have wanted you for a long time."

"Severus." Hermione turned her head, kissing him and devouring his mouth.

Feeling her tongue against his, Severus lost all control, frantically working until he came hard, buried deep inside her.

It was a very warm spring day for the eleventh Remembrance celebration. Hermione, obviously pregnant although not yet into her third trimester, smugly watched the crowd give her side-long looks.

Severus's restaurant was doing well for a new place. There was a ring with a huge rock on her finger.

No one could see her actual wedding band on the chain around her neck under her robes. They had secretly married at Gretna Green with her parents as witnesses.

Hermione had been worried about what her parents would say, but the first time he came to dinner at theirs, she heard her mother whisper to him while they were both doing the dishes. Her mum had said Severus had been one of the few topics that could be counted on to improve Hermione's mood while she had lived with them.

What everyone was murmuring was a whirlwind romance had actually been years in the making.

Severus kept a house in Wales for them to escape to, but he moved into her flat once his restaurant opened. He had found a location near where she was living, and he insinuated himself into her life before anyone could find a good reason to argue against him.

Harry had been very supportive. Ron had been 'distracted' by his own new baby, and used it as an excuse when he wasn't game to be gracious. While not perfect, it was good enough.

FIC: Assisting the Ministry

2024-01-17T12:37:40Z

Title: Assisting the Ministry
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Four
Characters: Original characters, Severus Snape, Albus Dumbledore
Author: iulia_linnea
Rating: PG
Summary: Maintaining the status quo vis-à-vis house-elves takes more effort than Severus knows.

"It was the Merlin, He Who Bound Us, who stopped the Slaughter."

"By Slaughter," replied Severus, who had administered the Veritaserum to the house-elf after the agent from Mysteries had hypnotised her, "do you refer to the, to what wizards refer to as the Goblin Rebellions?"

"Yes, the Slaughter."

"More than one was attempted," pressed Severus, prompted by a nod from Mysteries' agent, who had refused to offer her name.

"It is being a different part of the same Slaughter," the house-elf, Minky, answered.

Severus, feeling somewhat warm, shivered. He noticed the agent noticing.

She cleared her long tan throat and sighed. "Thank Merlin for his Binding work."

"Enslavement work," retorted Severus.

"Professor Snape," the agent replied, her brown eyes glinting with apparent irritation, "house-elves reproduce at epic levels and are naturally feral. In every plane of existence on which they exist, they've destroyed their natural resources before moving on, leaving nothing and no one alive in their wake. They are a cancer—and," the agent continued, holding up a hand as Severus made to interrupt her, "—one that Merlin should have cut out. Instead, he Bound them to serve, which they do happily."

"For the most part," said Severus.

"Yes," the agent replied, "like you used to do."

"Albus!"

"Kendra, Professor Snape is here as a courtesy. Don't abuse him."

"I don't nee—"

"Kendra," Albus said. "Do not abuse him—and release the elf. She knows nothing of recent events."

"I don't take orders from—"

"Thank you, dear," said Chief of Mysteries' Activities Charlotte Noname. "That will be all."

Kendra flicked her wand at Minky and departed the examination chamber.

"Minky is here! Why is Minky being here?" the house-elf, her ears twitching, asked.

"Because you are the best and most hospitable house-elf in all the Ministry," Albus told her, "and we are anxious to try tea and biscuits and—"

"Ham sandwiches," Chief Noname cut in, with a glance at Severus.

The woman had kind eyes, he noted, but he didn't appreciate her being in his mind.

"Oh, I wasn't. Albus told me you enjoy ham sandwiches. We have that in common."

"And yet."

"Well, I slip upon occasion. It's not every day we're graced with the presence of a—"

Albus cleared his throat as if in warning.

"—Potions master of your talents," finished Noname.

"Did you make it up?"

"No, Professor Snape. The Department of Mysteries has an unlimited selection of aliases for its members."

"Charlotte, please stop being rude to my Potions master."

"I'm not being rude, Albus."

Pop!

"Minky has returned with food- and drinkstuffs!"

As it had been a long morning and he was quite hungry, Severus didn't engage with the Headmaster or Mysteries' Chief of Activities. He tucked in and thought about why he had been called upon to dose a house-elf.

The bodies had been showing up all over Wizarding Britain, from private houses to the halls of governance. The condition of the bodies had precluded the ability of anyone to consider the deaths accidental. Severus had seen the pictures.

Teeth and claws, teeth and claws and wild, unusual magic, thought Severus, banishing the images from his mind as he chewed his food.

"Based on the historical record and current evidence, it has to be elves."

"It cannot be elves, Charlotte. They are Bound to serve rather than destroy."

"Perhaps the Binding is failing," said Severus. "Does anyone know exactly how Merlin managed to enslave the elves?"

Albus shook his head at Charlotte. "No, Severus. No one knows. He left no record. Purposely so, one imagines."

"Because Heaven forfend anyone attempt to Bind people in such a way."

"Why bother?" Charlotte snapped at Severus. "'People' serve up themselves for service readily enough."

"That is in the past."

"Not to Mysteries, Albus. You know why. You know what he did."

"What I did? What did I do?" demanded Severus.

Albus sighed. "She is speaking of your old master, Severus, and he did plenty."

Lily.

Severus looked down into his tea, glaring at his reflection. He had been feeling emotionally unmoored since Potter's arrival at Hogwarts. Seeing him was to see James and Lily at once, and it hurt him, every time. He knew his duty, and he would do it, but it was difficult.

And no one ever gives me any credit for the good I've done since—

"Professor," Charlotte said, in a tone that told Severus she knew she was interrupting his thoughts and didn't give a damn about it or him, "thank you for your time. You may go."

"Severus is not responsible for the deaths of your agents, Charlotte. He was but a boy, himself, when he fell under the Dark Lord's thrall—and it is not for you to dismiss my staff, not least because your own brewers couldn't produce a Veritaserum that would work on house-elves."

"I did thank him."

Severus felt a wave of warmth envelope him; he wanted to think it was gratitude for being thus defended by the Headmaster, but he knew better. "Minky!"

Minky, eyes wide with a desire to be useful, or so assumed Severus, appeared before him. "Yes? Yes! Minky is here!"

"What is in this tea?"

"There is being no tea in that cup. You is drinking it all up!"

Severus inhaled. Severus exhaled. "Minky, what was in the tea I just drank?"

"Tea and tea leaves and—"

"Minky!"

"There was being Calming Draught because you is being very upset by the Chief and the Chief is being very annoyed by you and the Albus is being too twinkling for Minky!"

Albus twinkled. Severus glared. Chalortte spit out her tea.

"Minky! We've discussed this!"

"Yes, but Chief is never ordering Minky to stop. The Charlotte is always wanting Minky to take care of all the guests and the agents and the . . . the everyones!"

"Please return with a pot of just tea, Minky," Charlotte ordered.

Pop!

"Well, that was—"

Pop!

"—unusual."

"No, Albus, it wasn't," Charlotte said.

"'Noname'? Really?" asked Severus.

"Oh, I have a perfectly regular surname. We just like to fuck with people here."

Albus laughed. Severus did not.

"Back to business," Charlotte remarked, before sighing. "The thing is, I have no idea how now to proceed."

"It's the same Slaughter," Severus replied, looking at the nearby levitating Minky.

"There is being no Slaughter."

"Minky, do you remember what you said under hypnosis and the influence of Veritaserum?" asked Severus.

"Yes, of course Minky is remembering. Minky is a house-elf, not some wild, unbound Slaughter-elf!"

"How many 'Slaughter-elves' are there?" asked Charlotte, leaning towards Minky.

"Only as many as being allowed under the Treaty."

"What treaty?" asked Albus.

"The Treaty," Minky said, "you is knowing about the Treaty that the Merlin made with the Elves from Away so they would remain away, isn't you?"

Charlotte looked from Albus to Severus and then back again. "I'm not aware of any such Treaty."

"And there are too many records to comb through with any rapidity," opined Albus.

Severus looked from Albus to Charlotte and then back again in disgust. "Minky!"

"Yes! Yes? Minky is here!"

"Minky, bring us a record of the Treaty you referenced."

"Minky is not being sure that she should."

"Are you a good house-elf or aren't you?" asked Severus. "Because if you are a bad house-elf . . . ."

"Minky is a good house-elf! Minky serves!"

"Then serve me now," Severus ordered, his stomach roiling with contempt for his behaviour.

Pop!

"I don't need to be in your mind to know what you're feeling or why," Charlotte told him, handing him a phial. "It will settle your stomach, if not your qualms to be part of . . . of an enslaving class."

Albus coughed but made no other reply at her words, and Severus, almost against his better judgment, drank the contents of the phial.

"I'm having a weird fucking day."

"If you like it, you're welcome to join Mysteries any time."

"Charlotte," said Severus, "you remain under the influence of Minky's Calming Draught. I won't hold you to your offer."

"No, because," began Albus, stopping as soon as Severus looked at him.

"Because I know my duty, old man."

Albus snorted. "I must still be under the influence, as well."

Pop!

"Minky is a good house-elf! Minky has returned with the Treaty!"

She set a glass globe levitating before her in the middle of the group of them. It began to glow. And then to shriek unintelligible words.

"[QQW?EPfljmvoi98aeyrgawpse0;dpfo;lk,m ;jhfvjlkcbh,vj kp'aWs;ozldk,m;cil fhjnmc,v;./kxgfl; ia'p;seldjfv87sidugxfhcvja'p;/oeS>JDFNpidcx ASDOIFUVA9PSD;FJ!]"

Thwip! Zisshhhhh!

A welcome silence fell amongst them, and the globe grew dim.

"Just what the hell was that?" asked Charlotte.

"Minky is doing as asked, but Minky cannot say beyond what is asked."

"Minky," said Albus, "do you understand that language?"

"Minky is not understanding that language."

"Minky," asked Severus, "are you not understanding that language because you've been told not to?"

Her eyes widening, Minky nodded.

"Please send for the being who ordered you not to understand that language."

Without appearing to move, Minky apparently obeyed Severus.

Pop!

"I is being Tessy, Keeper of the Records."

"I am Albus."

"I is knowing exactly what you is," Tessy replied, entirely without deference.

"You know about the murders."

"I is knowing about the Slaughter, yes."

"It's the same Slaughter," murmured Severus.

"It is being the same Slaughter, however slow," Tessy intoned.

"Minky, you are dismissed."

Pop!

"Why, Charlotte?" asked the Headmaster.

"Because I don't want her to come to harm."

Suddenly, Charlotte's wand was in her hand, and Tessy's teeth were about the Chief's throat. Severus, who felt the effects of the Calming Draught dissipate, moved quickly.

"I will destroy it!"

Tessy retracted her teeth from the Chief's throat. "No!"

"It is sacred to you, is it not?"

"Yes!"

"Speak!"

"I was speaking!"

"Speak of the Slaughter. Speak of the Elves from Away!"

"Every seventh generation of elves is a generation of Travellers, and they are free!"

"Free to continue the Slaughter? Free of the Binding of Merlin?" asked the Headmaster.

"Yes, free!" cried Tessy, lunging at Severus. "Free to kill!"

THRAZZP!

Before she could reach Severus, Tessy's limp body smacked down upon the floor.

"Is she dead?"

"No, Professor Snape," Charlotte replied, "not yet."

"Now, now, I don't—"

"Have a say in the discipline of Ministry personnel, particularly not that of the Department of Mysteries' personnel."

There was blood on the Chief's neck, noticed Severus, catching her eye.

"I know. I'll have myself Healed. Thank you, gentleman. That will be all."

Pop!

"Oh, how I hate that mode of travel."

Severus blinked in surprise to find himself standing the Headmaster's office.

"Are you all right, Severus?"

"I . . . I think so. What the hell just happened?"

"You may, I think, consider our dismissal as much thanks as either of us will receive for assisting the Ministry. I imagine that Chief Noname believes that Mysteries' Activities can manage the, er, Slaughter-related difficulties on their own, now."

"But shouldn't people know what's going on, Headmaster?" demanded Severus.

The Headmaster smiled and raised his hand.

~*~
Severus stiffened, feeling as if he'd just received a shook. "I beg your pardon, Headmaster. What did you just say?"

"Lemon Sherbert?"

Severus' mouth worked as his mind spun; he felt as if he were trying to tell himself something but couldn't hear what his mind had to say.

"If not a sweet," said the Headmaster, "would you care for some tea?"

Pop!

A tray laden with tea and food appeared before Severus, and next to it, levitated a house-elf.

"Binky has brought strong tea, sweet cakes, and ham sandwiches!"

Ham! Severus thought, pushing all other concerns save those of his stomach firmly away. "Thank you, Binky."

"It is being Binky's pleasure to serve you, Professor Snape!"

The Headmaster smiled upon them. "Thank Merlin for that!"

FIC: New Quarters (PG)

2024-01-16T12:20:03Z

Title: New Quarters
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Three
Characters: Severus, OFCs
Author: iulia_linnea
Rating: PG
Click to View For non-Euclidean- and Time-related Fuckery.
Note(s): Thanks, H.P.L., you crazy f-ck!
Summary: Severus finds himself at a loss in his new quarters.

"Good afternoon, Severus Snape."

Severus turned to look at the woman standing in his new quarters, the woman who shouldn't — who couldn't — have been standing in his quarters because he'd locked his door. His first impulse was to draw his wand, but with a blink, he realised that his wand was in the strange woman's hands.

"And a fine one it is, too," she said, as his wand slid itself up into a hidden sleeve pocket in her robes.

"Why . . . can't . . . I move?" Severus ground out from between clenched teeth.

"Because I don't want you to, of course." The woman, clad in black robes, her white hair bound up into a spiralling braid that crowned her head, surveyed him dispassionately. "You're not quite what I expected."

"I didn't . . . expect you at . . . all."

"No one ever does, dear."

Severus' eyes narrowed at her words, and he examined her face more closely; he could not, he decided, determine her age. At first glance, she appeared to be in her early twenties, as he was, but upon very close inspection, the lines about her eyes were those of an elderly woman.

The woman laughed.

"Don't . . . laugh at me!"

The cessation of laughter was abrupt as the woman told him, "It's not always about you, dear," before sighing. "But of course, sometimes it is."

"Who . . . who are you?" Severus demanded.

"I'm the stranger standing in the quarters of Hogwarts' new Potions master," the woman said, holding up her hand as if to prevent him from speaking further. "My name is unimportant. My job title is what should concern you."

"Well?"

"I'm a Chief Investigator from the Department of the Prevention of Time Fuckery."

Severus just stared, his mind blanking.

"Yes, I know. It doesn't sound professional at all, but when my department was created, things were . . . fraught."

"Fucked, even," Severus managed to reply.

"Precisely," replied the Chief Investigator.

Severus was appalled to find how easily he believed her. "You're a Legilimens?"

"No, I'm a mind reader. There is, as I know you are aware, a difference."

"There is . . . no . . . such thing."

"Didn't used to be, yes, but we've made advancements and discoveries since your time."

"Release me."

"I can't, Mr. Snape. Even as young and inexperienced as you are now, you're still a danger — even without your wand."

"Why are —"

"Apropos of everything," interrupted the Chief Inspector, "I'm very sorry for your loss."

"Lily."

"Yes, Mrs. Potter. But really, Mr. Snape, what did you expect? You asked for her, as if she were an object, a gift, to be given. You asked a madman to give you another person. Did you truly believe that such a request could be granted?"

Severus, too astonished to speak, glared at the Chief Inspector, who was glaring right back.

"Oh, I dare because I know your history, your future. I dare because on two future occasions, both of which will cause me great difficulty to correct, you vex me by attempting to 'fix' your mistakes. I dare because I can, stuck here with you as I am, and I really have always wanted to know what the hell you were thinking. . . . But I see now you are as I've always been told, just a man, and as stupid and shortsighted and selfish as any man of any age."

The Chief Inspector began to pace. Severus forced himself to relax inside of his unseen bonds.

"It won't work, dear. You're going to remain Mostly Frozen until the danger has passed."

"Release . . . me."

"No, Mr. Snape."

"Then answer —"

"No, I don't think so. It's not as if you'll remember me when I've gone, but it's too much of a risk to say anything more than I have."

"Why say . . . anything at . . . all? Why interact . . . at all?" asked Severus.

"Rule-breaking curiosity. I'm not a good girl, I'm afraid."

Severus noticed the Chief Inspector's dark eyes shifted in colour, turning from almost black to the very darkest blue and back again. He wondered if magiceuticals were involved.

"No, they are not," the Chief Inspector said. "Colour-changing is tied to my mood, which is affected by Travel."

"Time 'Travel'. I hear it."

"The capital tee?" asked the Chief Inspector. "Yes, that is intentional."

The air behind her began to split, and light in thready beams of white and yellow spilled into the room.

Shrrrrrrrrp!

The Chief Inspector's spell ripped through the air to cauterise the tear, and it was suddenly rather dark in the room.

"Shit."

"I don't know . . . that spell."

"It hasn't yet been invented."

"I believe you," said Severus, "but that didn't look like 'Time Fuckery'."

"And what do you suppose Time Fuckery looks like?" asked the Chief Inspector.

"What did I do? Why is this happening? Who . . . what is coming for me? Why can't I . . . help?"

"Ah, Mr. Snape, I see that you've found a way to relieve the constraints of my spell." The Chief Inspector waved her hand in his direction.

"Damn it!" shouted Severus.

"I'm impressed, dear, but again, I cannot allow you to —"

"Let . . . let . . . go!"

Before the Chief Inspector could speak, a sound akin to tearing paper, though it held a disturbing and undesired "wet" quality to it, rose in the room.

I smell blood, thought Severus, trying to panic.

The Chief Inspector turned away from him as she took on what appeared to be a fighting stance. "It's not blood. It's ichor."

Black shafts of slouching beams of unlight broke into the room.

"Close your eyes, Mr. Snape. Do. Not. Look!"

Severus obeyed her with many, ruthlessly suppressed internal questions, squeezing shut his eyes so tightly that they burned. He was frightened. No, he was terrified. He was helpless to do anything but trust some strange, possibly insane witch — for he could not doubt that she was a witch — to protect him against an enemy he did not know. The haze of grief and self-hatred in which he'd been wallowing since Lily's death burnt away as his reality caused him to become fully present.

Where is everyone? he wondered, as the oddly sulfurous shrieks of the Chief Inspector's spellwork slurped past his head, hot, cold, and otherwise blessedly undefinable.

"Shit!"

"Are you . . . are —"

"Don't speak!"

Shrrrrrrrrp!

Severus heard a final spell before silence fell and the hellish scent in the room subsided. He didn't speak. The Chief Inspector didn't, either.

"Chief Inspector?"

She did not answer.

"Chief Inspector?" Severus repeated, growing more concerned.

He didn't know her binding spell. He didn't know how to release himself. He was trapped!

"Chief Inspector, report!"

"Pre—resent."

"Alive. Good. I would . . . hate to . . . think . . . that a witch . . . from the . . . Department of the . . . Prevention of . . . Time Fuckery, had . . . permitted . . . Fuckery of any . . . kind."

"Must sleep."

"Don't you . . . dare!" Severus shouted, inadvertently opening his eyes. "Fuck!"

The walls and ceiling and floors, all stone, had a melted quality to them. His furnishings lay strewn in blasted and deformed splinters and lumps about the room. The fire was blazing blue in a shade with which Severus was quite unfamiliar. And the doors to his sleeping chamber and the corridor into the dungeons were smoothed over and appeared now to be painted into the walls rather than functioning.

"Shite! Shite! Shite!" Severus screamed, frustrated to discover that he was still quite thoroughly and utterly trapped — and then realisation dawned. "I can speak. I can move again!"

He looked down at his feet to find the Chief Inspector, quite unconscious.

"How are you still alive?" he murmured, momentarily stunned by the blood, the Chief Inspector's blood, pooling about her body. He moved then, and quickly.

~*~
"How rude of you to rifle through a witch's private wand pocket."

Severus turned to reqard his patient. "I didn't think there was Dittany enough in the world to Heal you."

"I imagine you didn't know if it would work at all," she replied.

"No, I didn't, but I had to try — and it was all I had."

"Yes, the Record says as much."

"The 'Record' records that I always keep Dittany on my person?" asked Severus.

"Among other potions, yes. Thank you, Mr. Snape."

"Thank you, Chief Inspector. . . . This is not how I expected my first night in my new quarters to go."

"No, you expected steak and kidney pie and pumpkin juice, a long cry, and a longer book."

Severus inhaled abruptly but didn't speak.

"Breathe, Mr. Snape. I didn't come all this when to have you die on me through 'natural' causes."

"How — the doors. How do we repair them?"

"Ah," answered the Chief Inspector. "Give it a moment. A recovery team should be here soon enough."

"Can you not tell me anything about what just happened?"

"You're smart enough to know the answer to that."

Severus was, so he asked, "Will the threat return?"

The Chief Inspector shook her head. "I don't know. I don't think so, at least, it shouldn't return until it's actually expected."

"I don't like this at all."

"I don't blame you, Mr. Snape. Non-Euclidean bullshit is a well-documented pain in the ass."

"Says a Chief Inspector of the Department of the Prevention of Time Fuckery."

"Yes," she replied, reaching out an arm. "Help me up."

The remains of the lumpen cushion on which she'd been resting dissolved — dissolved! — as Severus helped the Chief Inspector to her feet.

"It's alarming, I grant you. Worry not. I'll set your quarters to rights — oh! They've been."

Severus followed the Chief Inspector's gaze to the door leading into the corridor and then to the one leading to his sleeping chamber — and as he turned back to look at the Chief Inspector, his gaze took in his restored sitting room and he gasped.

"Magic!" exclaimed the Chief Inspector. "How lovely. They've even left us proper tea and biscuits — and is that ham?"

"Ham?" Severus echoed, as he joined the Chief Inspector at the little table laden with all manner of welcome food and drink.

They didn't speak but ate in a relatively companionable silence for some time.

At last, the Chief Inspector said, "Again, thank you for Healing me."

"Thank you. For, er, everything."

Through a laugh, the Chief Inspector replied, "No, not everything, merely one vexing Time Stream."

"That I'm always, er, interfering with?" asked Severus.

"Nice try, dear," the Chief Inspector told him, rising.

Severus swallowed nervously. "Are you going to Obliviate me, now?"

"What? Obliviate you? No! No, we don't do such things anymore."

"Then how will —"

Severus blinked. He stood alone in his as-yet-unexplored quarters, a Potions master and soon-to-be professor.

Lily, he thought.

Of late, it was all he could do not to weep her name every minute of every hour of every day, but duty kept him silent; he would honour Lily by protecting her child, and until Harry's arrival at Hogwarts, he did not know how he would keep himself sane.

"How did I get here?"

Pop!

"You is here like everyone else is being here, Professor Snape!"

Severus hadn't even started at the pop of the house-elf's arrival. "And how is that?"

"You walked in the door!" the elf exclaimed with prodigious cheer. "I am being Bissy, and the Bloody Baron says I am to be your house-elf because I am being the 'most sober' of all my sisters! Brothers, too!"

Severus' eyes widened at Bissy's words, but not at the Baron's selection. He'd always got on well with him.

"May I have a —"

Poof!

"It is being here, the big book you is wanting from the Librarian Lady."

And there was a book, A History of Hogwarts' Masters of Potions, Compleat with Their Most Glorious Draughts, Listed in Abecedarian and Historical Order, floating in between himself and Bissy.

"Oh! And there is being a steak and kidney pie and pumpkin juice for you, and tartlets."

"Tartlets?" Severus asked, not recalling having requested them.

"Tartlets!" Bissy assured him. "Sweet ones and savoury!"

It was then that Severus caught scent of cheese — and ham. "Tartlets!"

And so it was that Hogwarts' newest Potions master passed his first, unexpectedly calm evening as a professor reading about past masters of his craft by the fire over a meal that featured not one, but two plates of ham tartlets.

Pumpkin juice and steak and kidney pie were well enough in their way, but Severus loved ham.

FIC: Shit Husbands (PG)

2024-01-15T09:37:04Z

Title: Shit Husbands
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Two
Characters: Severus, Eileen, Tobias, OFC, Lily
Author: iulia_linnea
Rating: PG
Click to View For minor character death.
Summary: Severus spends his summer hols worrying about an abandoned wife.

Mrs. May is a sweet old lady who sleeps all the time, well, most of the time; she does murmur occasional requests to Severus or his mother when they come by to feed and care for her.

Mrs. May's husband left her when she became ill. He just walked away from their house and never looked back. One night not long after that when Da had gone down to the pub, Mam had slipped out of the house and down the street. She'd done something to the door. She'd gone inside. Severus had followed her.

The house felt empty, but there was a smell. Severus followed his mam, who was following the smell, the sickly sweet smell of decay, until they found Mrs. May crumpled up on her bathroom floor.

"I know you're there, boy. I want you to go home and bring my little bag from the shed. Do it. Now!"

Severus ran.

When he returned, he saw that Mam had cleaned up Mrs. May and moved her to her bed.

"Give me the blue phial from the pocket, Severus."

He did so, and Mam poured a bit of thick liquid into Mrs. May's mouth, working it and rubbing her throat until she'd swallowed it all.

"Eileen."

"Yes, indeed, Mary. You've had a fall."

"He, oh, he left me, Eileen."

"Why?"

"I have cancer."

"Curable?"

Mrs. May didn't reply.

"When was the last time you ate?" asked Mam.

"I'm not hungry."

"Get a jar of broth from the fridge and come right back."

Severus did as he was bid even though he was worried about what he'd be eating that night, but disobeying his mam scared him more than an empty stomach.

"—and there's none left to care for me. I don't know what to do, Eileen."

"Should I heat it up?"

Without turning to him, Mam replied, "Yes, Severus. And bring biscuits if there are any. And tea."

"Oh," said Mrs. May, "there are plenty of biscuits and tea and a chicken, roasted yesterday. You'll find bread and butter, too. What . . . what did you give me, Eileen? I feel ever so much stronger!"

Severus, his relief great, skipped downstairs to the kitchen and prepared what was for him, an absolute feast. In the middle of his preparations, his mam walked into the room.

"That's good. We need some sort of veg, though."

"Thought she, er, Mrs. May wasn't hungry."

"She's not, but the potion I gave her stimulates her appetite in any case—she has to eat."

"Was it all right, then? My making us food?"

"You heard her. Of course. Now, I'm going to eat with Mary, and you are going to eat here and then sleep on her sofa, shoes off." His mam picked up the plates and put them on a sheet pan. "Someone will have to look after her until . . . . Well, someone will have to look out for her, and while we're doing that, we'll eat a little better."

"Mam?"

"Severus?"

"Is Mrs. May going to die?"

"Yes. Yes, but I'll do what I can to ease her pain."

The chicken is good, but Severus has a hard time swallowing it. He knows his mam isn't stealing from Mrs. May, and he knows that Mrs. May won't mind feeding them in exchange for being taking care of, but he's never known anyone who was dying before. He doesn't like it. It's sad. And he feels a little bit guily to feel happy about getting some extra food under the circumstances. It's almost like being back at Hogwarts, sitting in Mrs. May's kitchen. His belly is never empty at school.

~*~
"I know this isn't the summer holiday you imagined," Mam tells him, a week or so later as they are giving Mrs. May's front room a good dusting.

"She hasn't felt well for a long time, I think."

"No, I don't think so." Mam hands him the duster. "Next week, I'm taking Mary to the doctor. We'll go by bus and then by train, and you'll be left on your own. Perhaps you should visit the girl."

"The girl" is Lily. Mam disapproves of Lily because she is well off and "spoiled," or so says Mam, who believes that his friendship with Lily will give him "ideas."

What it gives him is food more often than not, something that last summer, in the absence of Mrs. May's generosity, Severus needed a great deal of.

"I'm sure Mrs. Evans would welcome me."

"Harumph."

"Well, it's what you wanted."

"Severus, what I want is—"

"Eileen!"

"Fuck."

Severus and Mam say it as one, and Eileen reaches into her apron. "Take this to your father. Tell him I'll have supper for him after the pub."

"Did Mrs. May give—"

"Do it."

Severus does. His father barely glances his way when he sees the money. He goes on his way without a fight.

I hate you! Severus thinks.

And he's not sure what to think of his mam.

"Did you steal from her?"

Mam turns. She slowly rises to her feet from where she'd been dusting the baseboard. She glares.

"Well, we never have any money, so—"

"I am not a thief. Mary pays me."

Mam's eyes are liquid. Severus realises that she has tears in them. He is ashamed.

"Go upstairs and see if Mrs. May wants her tea."

"I'm—"

"Go, Severus. Go now."

His feet feel heavy as he drags one after the other up the stairs. The scent is gone, the rotting smell. Mam chased it away. It's too bad her magic isn't strong enough to Heal Mrs. May.

But what does she have to live for, anyway? wonders Severus. "Hullo."

"Hello, there, dear." Mrs. May pulls herself up a bit against her pillows. "Your mother?"

"Oh, er, she's cleaning."

"And she did the shopping? You'll stay for supper?"

"Yes, thank you, Mrs. May. Would you like a cuppa?"

"Yes, dear, but please, would you open my window? I hear birds, but only just."

Severus opens the window. A flood of song flies into it.

"I don't know that bird."

"I don't, either, Severus, but he's sings prettily enough. I like listening to him."

"Lily sings."

"Oh, the sweet girl with the red hair?"

"You've seen her?"

"I have. And you. She's your friend?"

"She is." Severus smiles. "I like everything about her."

Mrs. May smiles. "It's good to have friends. You and your mother are good friends to me."

Severus flushes because he's not entirely certain of that. "I'll, er, be back with your tea."

"Lots of sugar, dear," says Mrs. May.

When Severus enters the kitchen, his mam has a tray ready. It has a cup of steaming tea, three biscuits, and a spray of flowers, as his mam would say, sitting on it.

"Take this up to her. Come right back. We've more work to do."

~*~
"Mother says that you're looking out for Mrs. May."

"Yeah."

"She seems like a nice lady," presses Lily.

"Is it wrong?"

"Is what wrong, Severus?"

"I think Mam's taking, er, accepting money from Mrs. May to take care of her, but she's dying!"

Lily sighs. "Your mother isn't stealing, Severus. Mrs. May is only paying what's fair, especially since she knows."

"Knows what?" Severus asks with suspicion.

"That you haven't enough money to look after yourselves and her. It's only fair, and it isn't wrong. You know your own mother, Severus."

That's the problem, he thinks. He does know his own mam, and she does whatever she can to feed them. She takes in laundry, she sells "love potions," she cleans, and she plays games of chance down the pub when all else fails.

And his mam never loses such games. Da is always so very proud of her, so proud as he puts out his hand to collect her winnings—which of course, he only ever half does, but he's not going to tell Da that.

Pillock. Sot. Bastard.

Severus doesn't like his father, no matter that he often wishes that Da liked him.

But I'm not a bottle.

No, Severus is not a bottle, and apparently, his mam is not a thief, at least, he hopes that's so. Still, it feels odd to take any sort of advantage off the dying of a nice old lady.

"Severus?" asks Lily.

"Yeah?"

"Mother packed us a picnic, a double picnic, so we can stay out all day."

A double picnic. It's as close to Heaven as Severus will ever find himself, he knows that.

~*~
"Severus, dear."

"Hullo, Mrs. May. Are you all right?"

"It's my time, sweetheart. Get your mother."

Severus' heart sinks. He's really enjoyed the extra food. And he hates himself for thinking about things like that. So much.

"I'm not a good person, Mam."

Eileen stills over the cooktop. "Oh, I see. Bag."

"You don't have to—"

"It's up to Mary, Severus. It's not up to us. She's been in mortal pain for weeks."

Mam's eyes are dark and glittering, and Severus again feels guilty. "You like her."

"She's my friend. Of course I do."

"I didn't, er, I—"

"Dish yourself up some stew, and butter your bread. There's juice in the fridge. Eat as much as you can. I'll return in a bit."

Birdsong greets his ears. "Mam?"

"Yes?"

"Open the window for Mrs. May. She likes to hear the birds."

Eileen nods.

~*~
The sun has gone down when Mam returns. She stands under the lintel of the kitchen door, murmuring to herself. And then she smiles a small, tight smile.

"Mary's gone. Peacefully. I've called the, er, I've done—"

Severus guides his mam to a chair and prepares a cup of tea for her, which she drinks slowly.

"Da will be late tonight, I think."

"Yes."

"So there's time."

"For what, Severus?"

"She doesn't have any family, so—"

"I told you. I'm not a thief."

"No one's going to expect any food. We can pack up the food. Da won't notice what he's eating."

"Oh," says Eileen.

It's odd to look at his mam and see Eileen Snape, a person, someone more than just a mother.

"You took good care of your friend, Mam. She was happy you were here."

"That husband of hers."

"I know. Husbands aren't worth the pots they piss in."

A bark issues from his mam, almost a laugh. "Well, see you never take one, and you'll be fine."

"Even if I wanted a husband, I wouldn't want a husband, Mam."

"Severus Snape, what do you know about—"

"They get handsy outside the pub, you know, when they're pissed, some of 'em."

"Whose hands do I need to remove?"

"No one's," Severus says, quickly. "Da punched someone once."

"Who?"

"Don't remember. You all right? We need to—"

Eileen swishes her hand. A hamper floats to the table. The fridge opens. Food fills the hamper.

"Take that and go home. I have to stay here."

"You'll be all right?"

"I'm not a—"

"Didn't say you were," Severus interrupts. "Sorry, Mam. I, er, I lo—hope you'll be all right. See you at home."

He is out the door before things can become any more awkward than they already are. He has too many things on his mind, and he doesn't like that one of them is ham, for his Mam did levitate ham into the hamper.

Severus loves ham.

He's sad about Mrs. May. He feels guilty that he's as hungry as he is. He hopes his mam isn't a thief. But she did give an old lady assistance and peace, and that's a lot more than many people get, especially ones with shit husbands.

If I'm ever a husband, he tells himself, as he puts everything but the ham and bread away, I won't be shit.

FIC: An Economy of Words (PG)

2024-01-14T09:15:03Z

Title: An Economy of Words
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: One
Character(s)/Pairing(s): the Snape family, implied others
Author: iulia_linnea
Rating: PG
Click to View None.
Summary: Tobias inadvertently teaches Severus a new word.

"Da, I learnt a new word!" calls Severus—from atop the garden shed.

Tobias runs towards his seven-year-old son as fast as he can and is there when Severus leaps down into his arms.

"Neurotransmitter!"

A little out of breath, Tobias hugs Severus to him. "Don't shout, boy. Yer mouth's in my ear."

"Sorry, but—"

"What does 'neurotransmitter' mean, then?" interrupts Tobias, ignoring the pounding of his heart as he places Severus on the ground and almost falls down after him.

It's been a long day, and he's had enough "excitement" from the mill foreman. Production's down.

Severus isn't and begins to lecture like the little professor Tobias imagines his son someday might be.

Smart as a tack, that one. Smart like his mam.

~*~
Eileen offers a steaming cup to him when he comes to. The ground feels impossibly soft.

"Coffee. Thank you."

"He talked himself to sleep," Eileen replies, indicating an unmoving Severus with a tilt of her head, whose own, like Tobias' recently was, is nestled into a much-patched pillow.

"This a new coverlet?" Tobias asks.

It's dark green with shiny silver edging that almost looks like letters, the coverlet under which he and Severus are resting, and it bears no patches.

"Oh, this old thing? I've had it forever. Thought I'd air it out. You both looked too comfortable to shift."

Tobias drains his cup before speaking. "Today was bad. Foreman was out for blood. Morrison was sacked. 'Poor performance', they said."

"Oh, that's too bad for Susan. She's expecting again."

And that's hard, Tobias thinks, sad. To reassure Eileen, he says, "My job's safe, will be for a while."

She leans over to kiss his cheek. "Good. Hungry?"

Looking down at his little son, Tobias smiles. "Let's let the boy nap a bit longer, but yeah, I am."

~*~
Eileen has an almost magically economical side to her that Tobias appreciates. The broth he's drinking is delicious, and the dumplings, tremendously so. He earlier watched her brew this batch of broth from an onion, half a carrot, a potato, a few mushrooms, a turnip, and a handful of herbs from their garden. The dumplings are made from almost impossibly small amounts of flour and fat with bits of bacon mixed in, and they're quite possibly the best things he's ever eaten.

Severus almost choked on such a dumpling a few weeks back. He inhales more than eats, sometimes.

"Very good, Eileen. As always."

She beams at him. "Thank you, Toby. I do love a fat dumpling."

They smile over an unheeding Severus for one charged moment, and then their boy is talking again.

"So neurotransmitters are messengers, Da! It's their jobs to—

"Job," Eileen corrects.

"Job to talk to . . . ."

Tobias leans back into his chair and allows his smart little son's voice, squeaking with authority, to wash over him. Severus' intelligence doesn't come from him, and that's fine. But it worries him.

How am I going to pay for his schooling? The mill won't stay open forever. He turns his gaze to Eileen.

As if she can feel the turn of Tobias' thoughts, Eileen fills his bowl with her nourishing soup. Tobias slurps.

Severus pauses in his lecture to laugh. Eileen laughs, too. Encouraged, Tobias slurps again in as comical a manner as he can manage.

And then, worries temporarily forgotten, there are nothing but giggles to go around until bedtime.

~*~
"What story?" asks Eileen, as Tobias enters their room.

"After all that science talk, a fairytale if you can believe it."

"The one about the hopping pot?"

"The what?" asks Tobias, having never heard any such story about any such thing.

"Oh, er—"

"My wife," he says, sliding his arms around Eileen as he pours himself under the covers with her, "you . . . must be . . . very tired, indeed."

"Indeed" is a Severus word, which means that it's an Eileen word, and she is everything to Tobias in this moment.

"Oh! Heh, yes, well . . . . Oh, Toby."

Sometime later as he's feeling as satisfied as he thinks it's possible to feel with the worries of a husband and father upon him, Tobias promises, "I will look out for us, Eileen."

"I know, Toby. I know you will. I . . . I love you."

It's a rare declaration from her; Tobias' response is heartfelt.

"Such . . . good soup."

~*~
The Morrisons leave the area; there's no other work to be had and they have to look out for their growing family.

"You miss Susan?" asks Tobias.

"I do, but not, er . . . ."

Tobias frowns as Eileen trails off. "What's wrong?"

"That Thomas Morrison," Eileen tells him, "I don't miss him. He was . . . inappropriate with me."

Tobias' spine stiffens straight. "What? When? How?"

"Last year when it looked like he might be made foreman, he came for a visit. Severus let him in."

"What happened?"

"Not much, though he ended up leaving in an awful hurry."

"What. Happened?"

"He was sitting at the kitchen table when I came in with the laundry. Severus had offered him a coffee but was having trouble filling the cup—and I didn't like him up on the chair. He was too little for that."

"Eileen," Tobias prompts.

"I got Thomas a cup and he started telling me about the 'changes' that were coming, how it was good you and he were friends, that 'friendship' was so important in such trying times."

Tobias feels his eyes narrow in anger at the intrusion, at the implied threat, visited upon Eileen. "That nasty piece of work!"

"Shh, Toby." Eileen glances out the open kitchen door to the garden. "Don't let's upset the boy."

"No, of course not, but what did Thomas actually do?"

"He put his hand on my knee," continues Eileen, "and I started up, 'inadvertently' knocking his coffee into his, er, lap."

"Why didn't you tell me before now?"

"Oh, Toby, it's just tha—"

"I would have ki—"

Eileen kisses him quiet. "That is why I didn't tell you. I didn't want you to kill him. He wasn't worth the trouble."

"That may be, Eileen, but I don't want there to be any secrets between us. There are some things a husband should know."

She nods. "You're right, Toby, you are, but . . . the burn did keep him away after that." Eileen's lips twitch.

Toby shakes his head and chuckles, but without mirth. "Good. He deserved it, the bastard."

"Ooo," says Severus, from under the lintel. "What does that word mean?"

FIC: L'Apothicaire (NC-17)

2024-01-13T12:15:06Z

Title: L'Apothicaire
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Five
Pairing: Severus Snape/Hermione Granger
Author: debjunk
Beta(s): steelersgirl
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Severus Snape has made a happy, fulfilling life for himself after the war. When Hermione Granger wanders into his Apothecary, he finds there's one more thing that could make him even happier.

Severus rose and stepped into the shower. He let the hot water burst down onto him as he turned and soaped up. Washing his hair last, he rinsed and exited the shower. Drying off, he put on the white tunic and black trousers he'd set out for himself. Toweling off his hair again, he grabbed a comb and ran it through, making sure his long tresses weren't tangled.

He examined his appearance and found it to be acceptable. Since surviving the war, he'd been able to care for himself better. Not being a puppet to two masters had been freeing and given him the time to be better about such things.

Everyone he'd ever known now thought him dead, and that gave him a peace of mind he couldn't have imagined during the war. He had been able to start over… from scratch. No one knew of his past now. He'd been able to create who he was without preconceived notions.

Living in Wizarding Paris had been a respite for his tattered soul. He'd hidden away there for a year, but then had started showing himself and was surprised that French Wizardry couldn't care less about the UK and their issues. They knew about the war, but the only main player they had heard of was Voldemort. He'd felt elated he could exist here without people giving him the side eye… or worse.

Grabbing his suit coat, he left his flat and went down to the corner bakery and bought a baguette, two croissants, and some macarons. He went next door and got some eggs and chicken for dinner that night. He loved living so close to the shops. He went daily to get what he needed, and enjoyed the outing to start his day. Putting a few other things in his basket, he checked out and headed back home.

Frying up the eggs, he set them on a plate and buttered his croissant. Taking his plate to the table, he tucked in. His eyes strayed across the table, and for a split second, he wished he had someone to share breakfast with. He cast that thought away. He was incredibly happy and satisfied with his life. He was a successful Potioneer here in Paris and could go wherever he wanted whenever he wanted. He regularly vacationed abroad and loved traveling. Just because he didn't have someone to share his life with didn't mean he was unhappy. Far from it.

Finishing up, he set the plate to wash in the sink and got ready to go to the shop. Putting his suit coat back on, he left and headed down the street. Wizarding Paris was compact and invisible to the Muggle world—much like Diagon Alley. It consisted of three long streets, the center one, the Main street with all the shops on it. The two surrounding avenues were filled with Wizarding homes. It was truly a perfect Wizarding community. Severus loved living here. He wished he'd grown up in France rather than the UK. Perhaps his life would have been very different had he grown up here.

His Apothecary was only three blocks away. He always walked the distance, enjoying the crisp air and using it to sort his thoughts. He neared the shop and looked at the sign above the door.

Favreau's Apothicaire

A simmering golden cauldron was in the lower right corner… the trademark for the shop.

Severus unlocked the door and stepped into the shop. He needed to restock the Essence of Dittany. He placed his bag underneath the counter and went into the back of the shop. He'd decanted the potion the night before, leaving it to cool overnight. He stoppered, then placed the twenty bottles into a box and took them to the front of the shop. He set them out with the remaining two bottles on a shelf near the front of the store. It was one of his most popular brews.

Meandering to the back again, he placed the box on the table. He started a cauldron up, heating water in it. He needed to make some Murtlap Essence. Once the water was simmering, he added a half cup of honey and poured in a bucket of pickled Murtlap tentacles. Giving it three stirs, he left it to simmer. It would need to simmer for six hours. Setting a timer, he left the brew to do its work and moved back to the front of the store, flipping the sign over to say Open.

He puttered around, taking stock of everything and noting what he'd need to brew next to replenish his stocks. After a while the bell over the door rang and an older gentleman entered.

"Ah, Sébastien! Good to see you," the man greeted in French.

"Mr. LaPointe, a pleasure," Severus replied in impeccable French.

"Do you have my package?"

"I do. Let me fetch it."

He hurried to the back and grabbed a small box wrapped in paper with some twine around it. Moving back to the front of the shop, he handed the parcel to his customer.

"Three vials of Wiggenweld, Two of Draught of Living Death, and three Mandrake Restorative Draught. Oh, and two each of Skin Tonic and Hair Replenisher."

"Thank you, Sébastien. Your products are the best in all of France, and I appreciate you packaging these up for me ahead of my visit today. How much do I owe you?"

"Ten Bezants, please," Severus advised.

The older gentleman reached into a small pouch attached to his waistcoat and fished out several coins. He handed them to Severus and clasped his hands around Severus'.

"Always a pleasure doing business with you, my friend."

"Thank you, Andre."

They chatted for a few minutes. After a while, the older man left the shop, waving to Severus as he departed. Severus smirked after the man and went back to his organizing.

__________
The six hour timeframe was up, and Severus was back at his cauldron. He added lemongrass and gave the brew three stirs clockwise. He left it for five minutes then put in Dandelion heads and Peppermint. He stirred the brew for ten minutes and it was done. He decanted it into vials and left them to cool for placement in the shop tomorrow. Finished with his tasks, he closed up shop and headed out for the day.

He meandered over to the local park and walked around, noting the tall maple trees, their leaves waving in the slight wind. He went over to his favorite bench and sat down. The bench was situated in front of a pond. There were several ducks and swans swimming in the pond. He removed a small bag of waterfowl food from his pocket and threw some out into the pond. The ducks hurried over and began quacking as they scooped up the feed and begged for more. The swans eventually came over as well and began snapping at the ducks.

"Now, now, there's enough for everyone," Severus murmured to the swans as he threw some seed near them. They honked and moved over to where he'd thrown the food. He smirked as all the birds ate, fighting amongst themselves as he threw more out to them.

Finishing up the feed he'd brought, he sat back and watched the ducks closest to him. They turned when all the feed had been snatched up and quacked riotously at him.

"It's all gone, you silly things," he said in disdain.

The ducks eventually swam away, realizing the buffet was over. The swans stayed where they were, a slight distance away from the edge of the pond. Severus watched them for a while, also taking in the children on the distant playground. They laughed and yelled to their friends, making Severus think of his own childhood, laughing on the swings with Lily.

He smiled at the memory.

It had taken him a very long time to be able to smile at the thought of Lily. Once the war ended, he'd felt free but still guilty for what he'd done to induce Voldemort to kill his friend. He struggled for a few years until he had a dream.

He was on the swing set, swinging back and forth. He was about twenty years old in the dream. Suddenly, Lily was swinging next to him.

"Lily!" he cried.

"Hi Sev!" Lily said with a grin.

He skidded to a stop and waited for Lily to stop as well.

"Why did you stop?" Lily asked.

"I… I need to tell you I'm sorry."

"For what?"

"I killed you."

She threw her head back and laughed. "You didn't kill me, silly. That was Voldy."

"How can you be so flip?"

"Because I've moved on. I am happy in the beyond, Sev. I mean, I would have rather raised my boy, but I'm happy. And I know what you've done. I know how you sacrificed all your life for me and for Harry. It's time for you to be happy and live your life to its fullest."

"But…"

She held her hand up. "No buts. You've wallowed long enough. I know you're sorry. You can't change the past, so you need to forgive yourself."

He sighed. "I will try."

"Do…" They sat silently for a bit before she spoke again. "I love you, you know."

His head snapped up to hers.

"You do?"

"Yeah, you were my best friend for years. I've always loved you." Her eyebrows furrowed and she frowned. "Not like that, Sev. Get a grip. You know I'm with James."

"Yes, my mortal enemy."

"Sorry about that. But he did change, you know. He was a good father."

"So I heard."

"He was. And a good husband. And I love him with all my heart."

"Jolly good for you."

She chuckled. "See? You don't have to wallow in guilt. You can be mad at me for marrying James—you can move on with your life. You can be… happy."

He gave her a half frown and narrowed his eyes at her. "I will try."

"Good. Now you can't catch me!"

She burst from the swing, quickly followed by Severus.

The dream had dissipated then, but he'd awakened and had felt a peace fall over him that he'd never felt before. Finally, he wasn't plagued with guilt.

He'd actually become content after that, and he still was. He loved his life, and was grateful for it.

His eyes were drawn to a couple walking by and a slight tinge of wistfulness hit him. Meh. He was happy. He didn't need complications like a woman in his life.

__________
Severus was stocking the shelves when the bell over the door tinkled. He turned toward the entrance to greet his customer and was shocked to see someone he knew from his past. Hermione Granger came through the door, rushing in. She stopped short when she saw him standing there. She gasped and her hand came up to her chest.

"Snape?"

Severus' lips thinned. "It's Sébastien… Favreau."

"But you're dead."

"Obviously not," he ground out. His wand was in his hand pointing at her in milliseconds.

"I'll need a wand oath that you will speak of my existence to no one, especially your dunderheaded friends."

Without hesitating, she withdrew her wand as well. Severus lowered his wand slightly.

"You are willing to make a vow?"

She shrugged. "I trust you. And I want answers, which I'm sure you won't give without an oath."

He sighed. "You will want to know everything, won't you?"

She nodded, and he hesitated. "I won't make you take an Unbreakable one."

"Like I said, I trust you."

He sneered. "I am a murderer and a spy."

She rolled her eyes at him. "You were exonerated and your spying saved our world. I trust you."

His lips thinned. "Fine."

"I, Hermione Granger, vow to never speak of your existence or the information that you tell me about surviving the war to another soul."

"I, Sébastien Favreau, also known as Severus Snape, do bind this vow and promise that it will only keep Hermione Granger silent on these things and not harm her in any way."

They pocketed their wands.

"Sébastien Favreau, huh? Nice."

"I'm glad you approve," he said tartly.

She extended her hand. "I appreciate you being willing to speak to me about this and not throwing me out of your shop the instant I entered."

He hesitantly grasped her hand and shook it. "I knew that would be a hopeless endeavor as you would not simply leave without an explanation. Now, why have you come?"

She frowned. "I'm here on vacation. I've got a bit of a queasy stomach and thought I'd come into the local apothecary for a stomach remedy."

Severuss arched his brow. He went over to a nearby shelf and pulled out a vial of an opaque pink potion. He handed it to her.

"On the house."

"I can pay, really."

"A show of my appreciation for your secrecy."

"Okay, thanks. All I want to do right now is curl up in a ball and moan." She unstoppered the vial and downed the potion. She clacked her tongue at the taste. "That's not bad. You should sell these in the UK. The stomach remedy there tastes like vomit."

He smirked. "This is a patented recipe, so I would be the only one who could sell it."

"Well, I'm sure you could make a fortune if you chose to do so."

He lifted another vial of the potion and looked at it. Twisting it back and forth as he viewed it. "I have contemplated doing so. My name, as you can imagine, is unknown in the UK, but I cannot risk the possibility, no matter how slim, that I am found out."

She nodded. "That makes sense. Now how did you survive? When I last saw you, you appeared to be dead, and there was so much blood surrounding you, none of us thought that it would have been possible that you survived. We… We buried your body. We had a funeral." She closed her eyes. "That was a dark time."

"Twenty-two years ago," he mused absently.

She turned and looked into his eyes. "I don't understand. There was a body."

"A golem."

"But you were so weak. Even if you did survive, I can't see you having the strength to create a golem."

"That's because you don't know how I survived."

"Do tell."

"Fawkes. He must have come soon after you and your friends left. I don't know how he knew, but from what I can determine, he cried into my snakebite and somehow got a tear down my throat. Miraculous things, Phoenix tears."

Hermione put her hand to her mouth. "Well, I'm so glad he saved you! I've often felt it was unfair that you died without being able to have some freedom."

"Oh, come now, you haven't given me a thought since that day, I can almost guarantee it," he huffed.

She stiffened. "Well, you'd be wrong. I thought about you a lot that first year. I hated that after all you did to help us win, you couldn't reap the rewards of your sacrifices. After that, I always remembered you on the anniversary of the battle."

"Hmm, surprising. I thought you hated me, Granger."

"I never hated you, even when I thought you were a murderer. I can't say I liked you very much, though."

He smirked at her. "Thank you for being truthful. I despise it when people try to smooth over reality. We all lived it. I'm aware of your feelings."

"And I'm aware of yours," she said as she tilted her head slightly and looked at him.

His eyes roved over her person. "You seem to be more tolerable in your adulthood."

"So do you."

He chuckled at that. "You'd be amazed at what freedom can do for a person."

"I can only imagine." She looked around the shop. "This place is lovely. Why did you choose Paris?"

"I'd been here several times and liked the Wizarding city. It's far enough away that nobody knows who Severus Snape was, and would never connect Sebastian Favreau to him. And the UK could care less about what happens here."

"Did you come here immediately?"

He motioned for her to take a seat behind the counter. There was a chair there for her, and he transfigured an empty vial into one for himself.

"I actually had an illegal Portkey with me at all times. Had I been able to relay my message to Potter before the Dark Lord struck me down, I would have told him and used it right then. I knew what my fate would be had I stuck around."

"I suppose it was better that we thought you dead. I'm sure there would have been a huge manhunt if you'd just up and disappeared."

Severus nodded and they both were silent for a bit, absorbed in their own horrific memories of the war.

"Even with Fawkes healing you, you must have been weak for a while," Hermione mused after a bit.

"I was. I actually believe I was in the Shack for a long time while the phoenix tears healed me. I was unconscious for much of it, I know. When I finally regained consciousness, I was able to move around. I cleaned myself up and used some of my blood to craft a double. It was fairly easy to imitate a dead man. I doubt anyone even gave it a second thought that I could have replaced myself and escaped."

"It was so crazy then. There were so many dead and injured. I think the dead were quickly sorted into caskets and their funerals were set back to back."

"I heard Lupin was killed."

"Yes, poor Teddy was left an orphan. Andromeda raised him, but he's considered a second son to Harry."

Severus nodded. "Once I felt able to use the Portkey, I did. It was a trying trip, and I fell unconscious upon arriving here. I have a small cabin in the hills on the outskirts of the city. I had it stocked in case I needed to flee. After I appeared there and regained consciousness, I made my way to my bed, where I slept for days, getting my strength back. It took a couple of weeks to fully feel myself again. Once I was better, I continued to stay hidden, Polyjuicing myself to resupply my cabin. After about a year, I gave up the Polyjuice and found I wasn't recognized or given any mind as I walked around town. That's when I sought out a storefront. This locale was available, and I opened my shop about two months later."

Hermione shook her head. "Remarkable. I'm so happy that you survived, sir. You seem… content."

He arched a brow. "You may call me Sébastien, and I am content. I love the peace that living in France brings."

Hermione smiled at him. They stared at each other for a moment. "Well, you've been incredibly accommodating to me. I should be going."

He nodded slightly to her. She rose and headed for the door. She hesitated before leaving. Turning back to him, she bit her lower lip.

"Would you like to go to dinner tonight after you close up the shop? I find eating by myself to sometimes be a bit lonely."

He arched a brow at her, surprised at her boldness. "That would be acceptable," he said finally.

She smiled then. "Great. When shall I meet you?"

"Are you in the Hotel du Sorcellerie?"

She nodded.

"I will come by at six thirty and meet you in the lobby."

"Okay, I'll see you then."

She turned and left. He stared after her, wondering what the hell had made him accept her invitation. Perhaps he was lonelier than he was willing to admit.

__________
Severus stood in front of the mirror, messing with his hair. He'd come home after closing the shop and showered, using a drying charm on his wet hair. Now it was staticky and sticking to his face. He usually let his hair dry naturally, so this effect had been unexpected. He frowned at himself.

"Well, you look like an idiot."

He waved his wand over his head and his hair was pulled back behind him in a tail. He frowned even deeper. Pulling his hair back from his face exposed all of the angles and severity of him. He hated it, so with a flick, his hair fell back into its straight sheets and stuck to his face again. He rolled his eyes and opened up his cabinet, pulling out a black jar and opening it up. Inside was a cream-like substance. He scooped a small amount out of the jar, rubbed it between his hands, and spread it lightly over his hair. That did the trick, returning his straight locks back to the sides of his face instead of across his cheeks.

He didn't even know why he cared. They were just two acquaintances meeting for dinner. It wasn't anything like a date. Was it?

He thought and thought about that. Perhaps it was. That's usually what you labeled it when two people met for dinner.

Nonsense.

Still, he wanted to look decent. He eyed his robes and straightened them out a little, brushing some lint off the shoulder. There. He was as good as he was going to get. Spinning around, he Apparated directly into the hotel's lobby. He saw a woman with curly hair like Granger's sitting with her back to him. He moved up to her and was taken aback at how lovely this young woman was. She had on a flowing dark blue wispy dress with light blue flowers on it. He was struck by how beautiful she looked.

"Hermione."

She looked up at him and smiled. "Hi Sev… I mean, Sébastien. You look quite handsome." She stood, and he offered his arm to her, wanting to scoff at her comment, but refraining.

"Thank you. You look very lovely."

"Thank you!" She beamed at him.

"Where are we headed?" he asked.

"Well, you know this area better than I. Do you have any suggestions?"

"There's actually a very nice restaurant just down the street. They have the best cuisine in the entire city. Would you like to go there?"

Smiling, she nodded.

"Excellent."

He led her out of the hotel and they strolled down the street arm in arm. They chatted a little as they walked to the restaurant.

"Do you like running your shop?"

He nodded. "Yes, I do. I like the relaxed atmosphere. I like being able to do what I want, sell what I want, and sell to who I want."

"Sounds heavenly, actually."

"What do you do?"

"I work as an Unspeakable."

They had reached the restaurant, and they halted their conversation as they entered and were seated and handed menus. Hermione looked at Severus.

"What do you suggest?"

"Anything here is good, but I especially like the Bouillabaisse and the Beef Bourguignon."

"Hmm, they both sound lovely."

"How about this, get the one that appeals to you most and I'll get the other and you can have a taste."

She smiled at him. "All right. I'll get the Bouillabaisse."

"Lovely, I was leaning toward the Bourguignon myself."

At that point the garçon came to take their order. Severus ordered in flawless French. He looked over at Hermione.

"Do you trust me?"

"Implicitly," she replied.

"L'Escargot, s'il vous plait."

The waiter nodded and disappeared from the table.

"You ordered us snails?"

"Have you had them?"

"No, but… ew."

He leaned in to her. "Don't knock them until you've tried them. They're surprisingly delicious."

"Hmm."

"You'll try them, won't you? They're too rich for me to eat the entire plate myself."

She pursed her lips, but finally nodded. "All right."

"So, you were telling me about your work at the Ministry."

"Well, I can't say much about my position, but I do enjoy working there. Kingsley has fought hard for reform. I work to help improve the laws for everyone in an Unspeakable way, which we'll have to leave at that, as I can't really say more."

"I wouldn't have minded being an Unspeakable myself, but… well, you know how that ended up."

She chuckled. "You saved us all, so I appreciate what you did."

He huffed and looked down at the table.

"I meant that in the best way."

"I know, I just…" His eyes strayed back up to her. "I don't like to think of that time, or what happened then."

"Okay, then let's not talk about it. What's your most popular item in the Apothecary?"

He rolled his eyes. "Skin softener."

Hermione gave a quick laugh. "You're kidding me."

"I wish I were. I can barely keep it in stock." He gave a small laugh and shook his head.

"Well, remind me to grab some before I head back home."

"How long are you here for?"

"Two weeks. I leave a week from friday."

"What brings you to Paris?"

"I needed some time away. I have always loved Paris. I used to vacation here with my parents when I was younger. I thought it would be a nice change from the UK and all its nastiness."

He gave her a curious look, letting her decide how far to discuss why she'd escaped Wizarding Britain.

Hermione's lips thinned. "You probably know from The Prophet that I divorced Ron about a year ago."

He nodded. "I'm sorry it didn't work out."

She huffed. "I'm not. I should have never married him. We were always bickering."

"I do seem to remember that from your Hogwarts days. If I were to be fully forthcoming, I was surprised that you two ended up together."

"Yes, I wish I had realized that before marrying him." She sat back and folded her arms. "Everyone said we belonged together, you know? And that was what I had wanted as a young girl. So we married. Those first years were actually good, but as time went on, we bickered more, and it just became obvious that what we had in common in school: the war—wasn't enough to make a relationship work. By then we had Rose, and I was expecting Hugo." She sighed. "We stayed together for them. But things just got worse and worse. I finally decided I couldn't take it anymore and asked to be divorced. And that's when everything went to shite."

"I'm sorry. Divorce can be very difficult, but sometimes it's for the best."

"I agree with you. Wholeheartedly, but if you ask any of the Weasleys, I'm the devil incarnate."

Severus frowned. "Molly can be a harridan when she wants to be."

Hermione sighed. "That's for sure."

Their escargot arrived and Hermione eyed it warily. "Severus, I'm really not sure about this."

He reached out and took one of the little forks and scooped out an escargot.

"You said you trusted me," he said as he popped it in his mouth.

Her eyes narrowed at him. "Yes, but your Slytherin cunning tricked me."

He smirked at her and shrugged. 'Just try it."

She reached out and picked up the mini-fork. She held it over the escargot, letting it hover as she eyed the slimy looking curl of snail. Finally, she plunged the fork into it. She quickly closed her eyes and popped it into her mouth. Chewing slightly, her eyes slowly opened.

"Okay, those are good," she admitted. Finishing the one in her mouth, she fished out another one and ate it.

"Told you," Severus said smugly.

She shook her head at him and grinned. "Incorrigible."

"Hmm, probably correct."

They were quiet as the entire plate of snails quickly disappeared. Hermione sat back when she was finished.

"Anyway, getting back to my tale of woe… The divorce was… tense…. Because we have children, we still need to communicate. We keep a united front for the kids. We both actually saw them off to Hogwarts right before I came here."

"I admire you for making the effort to make your children feel secure even though you're not with Weasley anymore."

She sighed. "Yes, but we're at war any other time. He's constantly harping on my parenting, and to be honest, I do the same with him. It's stressful and somewhat depressing. I just needed a break, you know?"

"I do. Living in Britain was not an option for me because I knew all the horrible things that I would have to endure if I went back. I mean, it's not the same, I know, but I understand you wanting to escape."

She gave him a wan smile. "Thank you for understanding. I told Harry I needed a break, and he just told me I was being childish."

Severus snorted. "This coming from the Boy Wonder himself! Did you tell him to look in the mirror?"

Hermione laughed. "No, that wouldn't have gone over well. Besides, he's not that bad."

"I'll take your word for it."

__________
Severus sat at his table eating a slice of toast and some eggs for breakfast. His eyes strayed across the table to the empty chair and this morning, instead of imagining a mystery woman, he imagined Hermione Granger sitting there. Frowning he mentally chastised himself.

They'd shared a dinner. An enjoyable dinner, but only one single dinner. He was being illogical and, quite frankly, ridiculous, to think that anything would come of that dinner.

Still, he'd been surprised at how enjoyable their evening had been. After dinner, they'd walked down Main Street and did some window shopping before heading back to the hotel. They'd said their goodnights, and he'd headed back home. She'd filled his thoughts and dreams since.

"She'll be gone in less than two weeks, and I doubt she'll grace my shop again in that time," he ground out to himself. Crumpling his napkin, he threw it on his plate in annoyance. He was being foolish.

He cast Hermione Granger from his mind, rose, flicked his wand to send the dishes to the sink, and got ready for work.

__________
He had spent most of his morning in the back, brewing, only coming out front when someone came into the shop, then hurrying back to his cauldron. He finished stirring the Draught of Peace he had been working on and placed the stirrer down on the table. He went over to his supply area and took a towel, wiping his face. It had gotten quite hot in the back room as he'd worked. He waved his wand and set a cooling charm over the room now that the potion was finished.

His stomach growled, and he realized he'd worked all the way to lunch. Perhaps he'd shut the shop for a few minutes and pick up something to eat. He'd forgotten to pack anything when he left that morning because his mind was 'elsewhere.'

The bell on the door rang, and he meandered up front to see how he could help whomever had just entered. He was surprised to see Hermione heading back toward him.

"Hi," she greeted.

"Hi."

She smiled shyly at him. "I brought us some lunch. I hope I'm not being presumptuous."

"No, I was just thinking about getting something. Thank you," Severus said. "Let's go in the back. I've got a small table back there." He took a deep breath. "That smells divine. What is it?"

"Croque Monsieurs." She leaned in toward him and gave him a saucy look. "They're my favorite."

He smirked at her as he led her to the table in the back. They sat, and he had a fleeting picture in his mind of them at his breakfast table. He shook his head quickly to chase it off and unwrapped his sandwich. Picking up half the sandwich, he arched a brow at the cheese as it stretched from the other half of the sandwich. Taking a bite, he nodded to Hermione that it was good.

"This is delicious. Where did you get it?"

"The hotel restaurant, of all places," Hermione said with a laugh.

"I'll have to remember that." He took another bite. "So, why aren't you sightseeing?" he asked.

She shrugged. "I'm going to the Eiffel tower later this afternoon. I just enjoyed the pool area this morning, and I thought you might like some company for lunch." She smiled shyly then.

He nodded. "I appreciate you thinking of me."

They were silent for a few minutes as they ate.

"How about I pay you back for lunch by making you dinner. I make a very good Coq au Vin."

She arched a brow at him. "That sounds lovely."

Let's say six p.m. at my home?"

She grinned and nodded.

__________
They'd spent every lunch and dinner together after that. It had been five nights since she'd wandered into his shop, and this evening they had grabbed a quick dinner and caught the latest French cinema. They were now walking back to her hotel.

"I was surprised I understood as much of that as I did," Hermione admitted.

"Your French is excellent. I didn't think you would have any issues, and it sounds like you didn't."

"No, there were only a couple of places where I wasn't sure what was being said."

"Did you enjoy the movie?"

"Yes! It was fun. Very much like a James Bond flick."

"Yes. I liked it too."

They had arrived at Hermione's hotel. She turned to him with a smile, about to say goodbye.

"Thank you for a lovely evening."

He bowed his head slightly. "Thank you for accompanying me."

Severus stared down at Hermione. The last few days had been blissful, and he'd come to care for her quite a bit. A sudden urge to kiss her came over him. Studying her, he thought she might be amenable. He took a step closer to her and his hands came up and grasped her arms. He slowly moved down, giving her ample time to back away if she didn't want his kisses.

She reached up and pulled his head down, making it absolutely certain that she wanted him to kiss her. He closed the little distance left between them and pressed his lips to hers. She opened almost immediately, and his tongue entered her mouth. He was enraptured with her. Her hand came up, and she ran her fingers through his hair as they continued to enjoy one another.

Slowly, they pulled apart, and Severus smiled down at her.

"Stay with me tonight, Severus."

He was a bit shocked, but so very eager. "You really want me to?"

She blushed and nodded. "I can't get you out of my head."

"You've captured my thoughts as well. Are you sure, though."

"Please?"

His heart swelled with affection for her as he pulled her to him and hugged her tightly.

"I would love to."

She hugged him back. Pulling away, she grasped his hand.

"Come on," she urged.

He smirked at her, kissed her cheek, and followed her into the hotel and up to her room where they spent the night showing each other how much they cared for one another.
Almost week had passed, and they'd spent every single night together, either at the hotel or at his home. It had been blissful, with both of them reveling in each other's company.

Severus opened his eyes and looked over at Hermione sleeping peacefully. His heart constricted within him. She was due to leave in two days, and he honestly didn't know how he'd survive without her. She'd made him feel complete and… happier than he'd ever been.

She must have sensed him studying her because her eyes slowly opened, and she smiled at him.

"Good morning," she murmured.

"Good morning."

He leaned in and kissed her lovingly. She grinned again as she pulled back.

"What shall we do today?"

"Well, as it's Friday, I will need to be at the store."

"I know, I mean afterward."

He pulled her to him and hugged her, his chin on her head. "I don't know. All I can think of is that you will be leaving in two days."

She sagged into him. "I know. I'm gutted. This has been such a wonderful time with you."

"Hermione…"

She pulled her head back and looked at him. "What is it?"

He grimaced and turned away from her. She lifted herself up onto her elbow.

"Severus, look at me. Tell me what's wrong?"

"There's nothing wrong," he said without turning. "Except that you'll be gone soon."

"Then why are you withdrawing from me?"

"Because, what I want to say to you is mad, and I know you will laugh at me for being so soppy."

"I would never laugh at you like that."

He turned back to her and gave a shy smile. He reached out and cupped her face.

"I know it's only been a little over a week, but I am falling in love with you."

Hermione reached up and cupped her hand around his. "I feel it too. I'm falling in love with you."

"Truly?"

She nodded. His lips were on hers immediately. He begged entrance, and when she opened, he plundered her mouth, expressing just how much he loved her. They were soon naked—a silent spell from Severus. He lifted Hermione's hands above her head and worshiped her breasts. She leaned up into him and moaned.

Releasing her hands, he moved down and kissed her belly button before moving lower and kissing her mons. Moving her legs apart, he leaned down and lathed her, making her gasp.

"Oh, more," she moaned.

His tongue did his magic, making her writhe beneath him. He moved in an infinity pattern as she groaned, tilting her head back. After a bit, her legs wrapped around his head, and he lost the ability to breathe as she smashed herself into his face. She cried out as she came and her legs slacked a bit soon after. Severus pulled back so he could breathe again.

He looked up at her and saw her craning her neck to see him. She grinned at him. "That was phenomenal," she groaned out.

He smirked at her. "Get on your knees."

Her sly smirk met his as she scurried around to get into position. Wiggling slightly and making him groan, he moved up behind her, lightly smacking her arse. He moved in and licked her once, causing her to go weak and almost fall down onto the bed.

"Now, now, stay put, love."

Severus knelt behind her, fingering her slightly.

"Are you ready for me?"

Her moan was answer enough for him. Placing his cock at her entrance, he rubbed her up and down for a bit before entering her and crying out. He moved in and out, feeling how wet she was. He groaned as he pushed into her again.

Finding a rhythm, they moved together until they both climaxed. Hermione stiffened as she slammed back into Severus, crying out and grinding herself into him. Severus buried himself in her and moaned her name at his release. They stayed that way for a bit before they finally collapsed onto the bed.

"God, I love you," he said as he moved to her side and pulled her close.

"I love you, too."

__________
Two days passed like lightning and Hermione was with Severus for the last time. His heart filled with grief as he beheld her in front of him. He pulled her to him and hugged her tightly. "I'm going to miss you."

"I can't believe I have to leave. It's gone by so quickly."

"I wish you could stay."

"I can't. I have commitments back home. But I'll come to visit—a lot."

"I will hold you to that."

She pulled back. "You'll write?"

He nodded.

"Good. So will I. It will be like we never parted."

"Sure it will."

She gave him a sad smile. "I know. I wish I could stay too. Hopefully, time will go quickly until I can return."

"I will not be complete without you."

Tears welled up in her eyes as she leaned up and kissed him.

"I love you," she said breathlessly.

"I love you too."

She rested her head on his chest. "When I came to France, I could have never known how happy I would be because I found you."

He squeezed her, his eyes closing as he held her. After a while he pulled back and frowned at her. "You should go."

She wiped the tears from her eyes. "I don't want to go," she whispered.

"Your Portkey will disappear without you if you don't go now."

She moved away from him, holding his hand and not releasing him until the last second. Backing away, her eyes never strayed from his as she moved to the table and picked up the bent corkscrew. In a flash, she'd disappeared.

Severus looked at the empty space where she'd just been. He sighed as he felt empty for the first time since he'd made his way here twenty two years before. He missed her already. How would he go on with her so far away?

His frown grew deeper. He had no desire to run the shop today. He went over to the entry, flipped the sign to closed, and left the shop, locking the door behind him. He spent the rest of the day holed up in his house with the curtains drawn, staring into the fire with a magically refilling glass of Firewhiskey in hand.

__________
The days dragged on after her departure. Everything seemed quieter, lonelier... emptier. He sat at his table eating breakfast and imagined Hermione sitting across from him, but the chair was empty, and she was gone. His eyebrows knit together as he stared at the empty chair. He was being maudlin, but he didn't know how to feel better. He missed her, and nothing would change that.

It had been two weeks. The same amount of time they'd spent together, but these two weeks seemed like an eternity. Grabbing a parchment, he wrote her a short note. She'd written a couple days ago, and he'd put off answering her because it just made him miss her more, but he wanted to respond.

Dearest,

I miss you. I was happy to get your letter, though. It put the first smile on my face since you left. Everything is going well with the shop. I am creating some special concoctions for the holiday season. I want them to be available by November, so I need to work through them now.

I hope your children are doing well at school.

Yours

My love,

I smiled when I got your letter. The children report that Hogwarts is amazing. I hope every day that they don't get into trouble like their parents did as students.

Work is horrendous. Don't get me wrong, I love it, but I am angry that it keeps me from you.

I miss you.

Yours

Hermione, my love,

I am angry at your job as well. I wish it were here in Paris. I have even entertained coming for a visit, but that would involve Polyjuice and so much planning and spywork. When can you come back here?

Yours

Severus, dearest,

I can't get away for a while, but I think about escaping every day. I hope to be able to come out soon, but I'm not sure when. Right now I'm finishing up a project. I'm hoping once it's over, I'll have time to come to Paris. I want your arms around me and your lips on mine.

I love you

Dearest,

Make it soon.

Yours

__________
Six weeks had passed. Severus moped around the shop. Today was a hard one. It was the 'anniversary' of the day Hermione walked into his shop. He yearned to see her again. Perhaps Polyjuicing himself and heading out to London was the answer. Who would know it was him, really? He'd been 'dead' for over twenty years.

Maybe he would see the travel wizard about Portkeys abroad.

The entry bell rang, and he turned to greet his customer. He froze as he recognized the woman who had just entered. Once he'd come to his senses, he rushed to her and threw his arms around her, his lips descending upon hers as he kissed her senseless.

"Hermione," he murmured between kisses.

"Gods, I've missed you," she gasped as he showered her with affection.

He pulled her head to him and cradled her to his chest. "How are you here? You didn't say anything in your last letter."

"I wanted to surprise you," she said into his cloak.

"You certainly did."

Her arms went around him, and she held him tightly to her. "It's so good to see you."

"How long can you stay?"

She pulled away and smiled at him. "Well, we have to talk about that."

He arched a questioning brow at her.

"Come on," she said as she grasped his hand and started to lead him to the back room. "Let's sit in the back and discuss."

"Discuss what?" he asked, somewhat testily.

She didn't say anything until they were seated across from each other at the small round table in the back of his workroom. She extended her hand, and he grasped it, giving it a squeeze.

"Talk to me," he said with concern.

"Sooo… I've been busy these last few weeks. As I told you, I was finishing up a project at work. What I didn't tell you was that it was my last project with the Ministry."

"Wait, what?"

She smiled at him. "When I was here before, I met with the head of the French Ministry. I suggested that a Ministry Liason from the UK might be a good idea so that we can work together to make the International Wizarding World a better place. She thought it was an excellent idea. I discussed it with Kingsley, and he gave me the job." She blushed. "I start on Monday."

Severus was shell shocked in the best way. "So, you're moving here?"

She nodded.

"Where will you live?"

She shrugged. "I suppose I need to find a—"

"Live with me."

She searched his face. "Are you sure? I didn't want to come here and push myself on you like that."

"Hermione, we belong together. Move in with me."

She grinned and nodded. "All right."

Severus grinned back. "How can you move here? What about your children?"

"Well, they're at Hogwarts most of the year. I talked it over with Ron before I made any decisions. He was surprisingly supportive. Perhaps he likes the idea of me being far, far away. We share custody when the kids are home. I'll have them for one week of Christmas break, one week of Easter hols, and all of July. He'll have them for the rest of the time. He was fine with the thought of them being with me here in Paris. He said it would be a good experience for them to see another country." She hesitated. "I'll just stay in a hotel when they're here. I don't want to put you out."

He squeezed her hand. "I have the room for them. They can stay with us. There's the extra bedroom, and one of them can stay in the lab. We can put a bed down there for when they're visiting."

"Severus…" She bit her lower lip. "I am perfectly fine with us living together, but I can't in good conscience, ask you to take in my children."

"Hermione."

She stopped talking and looked at him.

"I understand that being with you means that your children are a part of that. I want to get to know them."

"You do?"

"Yes, love, I do."

"Okay." She bit her lower lip again. "If you're okay with them staying with us, that's good. But if after the Christmas Hols, you hate having them in your house, we'll book a hotel after that. Fair?"

He nodded. "I don't think there will be a problem."

"You've never lived with teenagers."

He arched a brow. "Yes, but I've taught thousands of them and been a Head of House. I think I can handle two youths. I do have one requirement."

"Name it."

"They will need to take an oath not to divulge that Sébastien Favreau is Severus Snape. I assume your ex will never come here to visit, right? So he never needs to know who I truly am, and I don't want anyone else in the UK to either."

"They're savvy kids. They'll keep their mouths shut. They can take the same oath I did. I'm sure they'll be fine with it once they figure out who you are."

He gave her a quick nod. "Good."

She squeezed his hand. "I love you, you know that?"

He grinned. "Thank Merlin, because I love you, too."

She leaned over the table and kissed him passionately. "I'm so happy to be here with you."

__________
Hugo burst into Hermione and Severus' bedroom.

"Mum, Sébastien, wake up! You gotta come see!"

Hermione cracked her eye open and stared at her son. Severus lifted his head slightly so he, too, could see the young man who was so adamant to get them up.

"Merlin, what time is it?" Severus ground out.

"It's six thirty. On Christmas. It's way too late for you two to be snoozing. Get up!"

"Hugo," Hermione muttered. "Couldn't you have waited at least a half hour?"

"No! There's a ton of presents under the tree, and I want to open them!"

Hermione sighed. She turned and looked at Severus. He gave a slight nod. She turned back to her son.

"Is Rose up?"

"She's downstairs. She told me to wait until you guys woke up, but where's the fun in that?" he demanded with a shrug.

"Hugo, you are your father's son," Severus muttered.

Hugo missed the sarcasm and straightened up in pride. "Thanks!"

Severus shook his head slightly. "Go back downstairs. Your mother and I will be down in a few minutes, all right?"

"Yeah! Hurry! There's lots to unwrap!"

He ran out of the room. Hermione turned toward Severus and hugged him. "Thank you for being patient with him. This is his favorite holiday, and he always wakes us up early."

"It's fine. Just so he lets us sleep in tomorrow."

Hermione chuckled. "I'll be sure to relay that message to him."

"Happy Christmas," Severus said, kissing the top of her head.

"Happy Christmas." She leaned back and gave him a concerned look. "You are happy, right?"

"How can you ask that? You are here in my arms, the house is buzzing with activity, and for the first time in my life, I have people who truly care for me here with me during the holidays."

"The kids aren't too much?"

He chuckled. "Hugo is a bit… high-strung… but I find I enjoy both of them. Now, you don't have to fret anymore about my reaction to them. I'm happy to have them share our home."

She kissed him lovingly. "You're amazing."

"Thank you. I can say I feel the same way about you, love."

He leaned in and kissed her, but they were rudely interrupted by both Hugo and Rose yelling up to them.

"Come down, Mum!"

"Sébastien, come on!"

"At least he's calling you the proper name," Hermione mused.

"Took him long enough."

"Well, they've only been here five days."

"Rose has never slipped once," Severus remarked.

"Their faces when they saw you!" Hermione said with a laugh.

The children had Portkeyed to the International terminal. Hermione had met them and made them take the vow before Apparating them to Severus' home.

"Now, Sébastien is someone you actually know already. You'll recognize him right away from pictures you've seen of him. He doesn't want anyone to know who he truly is, so he's asked me to take a vow not to tell anyone. He released me from the vow where you two are concerned, but he would like you to take this vow as well."

"Who is he, mum?" Rose asked.

"You'll see when we get to his house, okay? Will you both vow not to reveal his true identity to anyone?"

They both nodded.

"Pull out your wands."

She crossed hers with theirs, and made the vow. They all holstered their wands, and she took each of them by the arm and spun them around. They appeared in Severus' sitting room, looking around excitedly to find out who exactly he was.

Severus emerged from the kitchen. "Bienvenue chez moi," he greeted.

Rose gave up a tiny squeak when she saw him, and Hugo's mouth dropped open.

"Holy cow, you're Severus Snape!" he cried once he'd closed his mouth and gotten his bearings.

"But you're dead!" Rose cried.

"Yes, your mother has been dating a ghost these last few months. I'm just more solid than most."

"But how?" Rose asked in wonder.

"Awesome…" Hugo muttered.

Severus smirked at the memory. "It was almost like being in the classroom intimidating students, but they were excited instead of horrified."

"They liked you right from the start."

"Surprising."

She came up to him from behind and slipped her arms around him. "Not really. You're pretty amazing, like I said before."

He turned in her arms and kissed her. "We'd better get going or their opinion of me is going to crash."

She grabbed his hand. "Come on, you."

They headed down the stairs.

"Oy, finally!" Hugo cried.

"What were you two doing up there?" Rose asked with an arched brow.

"We were getting dressed," Hermione told them.

"Couldn't you have used magic or something?" Rose demanded.

"We did," Severus replied drolly. "I was just wishing your mother a Happy Christmas."

"Ew, you were kissing, right?" Hugo asked.

Severus nodded, and Hugo made a puking sound.

"We've been waiting all morning and you two took forever!" Rose nagged.

"Rose! Calm down. Five minutes isn't going to spoil Christmas."

"That's what you think!" the young girl protested.

Hermione folded her arms in front of her and gave her daughter a withering look. "Young lady…" was all she had to say.

"Sorry, mum."

Severus leaned in and whispered in Hermione's ear. "She's just like you were at that age, harping at everyone."

Hermione blushed and glanced at him. she finally nodded in agreement. Turning, she smiled at Rose. "Happy Christmas, love."

She went over as Rose stood and hugged her tightly. She moved over to Hugo and held him tightly too. Kissing the top of his head, she let him go.

"Mu-um!"

"Now Hugo, you'll always be my boy, no matter how old you are, and I'm always going to want to give you hugs."

His cheeks turned beet red, and he looked away from her. Severus ambled over to him. "Mums," he muttered to him. "They give great hugs, but sometimes they have no tact, right?"

Hugo gave him a grateful smile that he wasn't laughing at him.

Severus looked over at the tree. "Looks like Santa Claus brought a ton of presents."

"Oh, Sébastien, we know about Santa," Rose advised.

"What is it you think you know?"

"That he's not real, of course."

"So, you think that your mother and I just piled those presents up under the tree while you were asleep?"

Both Hugo and Rose nodded their heads. Severus turned and gave Hermione an incredulous look.

"I'm not sure how we could have done all of this without them hearing. It's impossible. I guess we can let them think what they want, though, right Hermione?"

"Silencing charms," Rose replied matter-of-factly.

"Dad explained it all to us," Hugo added.

Severus arched a brow at them. "Well, your father is unaware of the magic of Christmas here in France. Père Noël still exists here, and he certainly knows how to use a chimney."

Hugo and Rose looked at each other with puzzled looks as Severus turned away and smirked. "All right, who wants to pass out the first gift…"

__________
Hermione fiddled with Hugo's collar. "This has been entirely too short a time with you both," she said, blinking back tears.

"Mum."

Hermione cupped his cheek. "Just let me fuss over you for a bit. You're going to be gone at school for months."

"Fine."

She leaned down and kissed his forehead. "I love you, son. Enjoy the rest of your year and don't get into trouble."

"Sure thing, Mum."

She turned to Rose and pulled her close.

"Oh, you're such a young lady. What happened to my little girl who couldn't match her socks?"

"I love you, Mum," Rose said as she hugged her mother tightly. "We'll be back bothering you before you know it."

Hermione sighed. "That's true."

"I knew it! You can't wait to see us gone!" Hugo cried.

"That's not true. I miss you both terribly when you're away."

"So, you up and moved to France?" Hugo challenged.

She glanced at Severus. "You know why I couldn't be with Sébastien in the UK. And we're only a Portkey away."

"We know, Mum," Rose said. She meandered over to Severus and to his surprise, gave him a great big hug.

"We'll miss you, too, Sébastien."

Hugo looked over at Severus and gave him a sharp nod. "Yeah, you're okay."

"Thank you, Hugo. I'm elated at your approval."

Hugo grinned at him. "Yeah, you'll do for Mum. We can see how happy she is with you."

Severus released Rose and bowed his head in acknowledgement to Hugo. Hermione gave them both another quick hug before handing them the Portkey—a bent cola can.

"Safe travels," she said.

"Study hard," Severus added.

"Bye!" Rose and Hugo said in unison before popping out of existence.

Severus pulled Hermione to him and kissed the top of her head.

"For Weasleys, they're very good kids."

"You are incorrigible," Hermione murmured as she wrapped her arms around him. "This has been a lovely week with them."

"I agree. To be honest, I am looking forward to their return… many months from now." He smirked at her as she batted his chest.

"You are incredibly lucky that I love you so much, or I wouldn't put up with your lip."

He leaned in and kissed her lovingly. "Yes, I am very, very fortunate that you wandered into my shop all those months ago. I was content before, but I never imagined how happy I could be until you came into my life."

When he pulled back, she smiled lovingly at him. Taking his hand, she tugged him along after her. "Shall we celebrate our newfound empty nest?" she asked.

"Oh, yes. I want to show you exactly how much you mean to me."

FIC: Hogwarts' Secrets (PG)

2024-01-12T10:40:04Z

Title: Hogwarts' Secrets
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Four
Character: Severus Snape, Lord Voldemort
Author: prolurk
Rating: PG
Click to View references to violence, prejudice.
Summary: A visit by the Dark Lord to his new Headmaster.

The Headmaster sat at his desk, reviewing invoices and wishing for a brandy and his bed. He turned a page and hissed a curse.

"What is it?" came the question from the portrait behind him.

"A breach to the wards from the Forest."

"Who could that be?"

The Headmaster only snorted.

"Is this to be a frequent thing?" asked the portrait with unaccustomed disdain. The Headmaster's only answer was to aim his wand over his shoulder to close the drapes across the portrait. He took a deep breath.

Lord Voldemort floated over the grounds of Hogwarts, smiling at the castle ahead of him. Some of the windows were lit against the gloaming, but the castle was quiet in late summer. HIS castle, now. He approached the window to the Headmaster's office and paused a moment to look.

Snape sat at the desk, reading parchments. Or so one assumed. The man could hold himself so still that sometimes the Dark Lord would watch to see if he actually breathed. He was a featureless black shape from this angle, even the folds of his robes seemed to melt into each other. One long white hand lay on the desk; that was all that wasn't ebony. The visitor allowed himself a smug moment. None of the other Death Eaters embraced Darkness as Snape did. He'd recruited him as a boy and taught him the right ways of Magic, and oh, how well the boy learned! Tonight, this most useful servant was here to show him the secrets of Tom Riddle's first true home, and it was delicious. Voldemort tapped on the window frame.

Snape smoothly rose from his chair to face the window and then knelt, eyes properly downcast. His lord wafted by him and alit by the desk. "Severus," he said. "Good to see you hard at work."

"My Lord, you are welcome."

"Oh, get up! It's only us." The Dark Lord seated himself before the desk.

"May I offer some refreshment, my Lord?" Snape asked as he rose to his feet.

"Thank you, no. And do sit down." Voldemort contemplated the piles of parchment arrayed across the desk. "What is all this?"

There was the faintest of sneers, only detectable if one was watching. It was the most the Dark Lord expected to see across that mask of a face. "Finances," Snape flatly said.

"Allow me to distract you from such felicity," Voldemort said.

"What can I do for you, my Lord?"

"Tell me how things are going."

The Headmaster waved his wand to file away the piles of invoices. "Deliveries of supplies are arriving apace. Only about half of the faculty has arrived. It's early yet."

"The Carrows?"

"They came this week." That sentence was just a little softer, but Voldemort chuckled. Snape suspected him of sending the twins out of spite, and he was right. There was no love lost between the twins and Snape. That's why he sent them, to annoy all three of them. It had no real purpose, but it amused him.

"I'm sure they'll find their way."

"As you say."

"Are you … connected to the Castle?" Voldemort asked.

Snape inclined his head. Voldemort would have been thrilled to bond with such a powerful and venerable structure. Snape responded as if it was as commonplace as receiving the Daily Prophet.

"I'm sure that brought some surprises."

Not even a tweak of an eyebrow. "Indeed."

"All good ones, I hope."

"No, my Lord."

"Oh?"

Snape seemed to recognize his master's impatience. "However, the discovery that there are more secret passages available to the Headmaster than to the faculty was rather satisfying."

"I knew it!" Voldemort breathed.

"Furthermore," Snape continued, "the castle's purpose has become very clear."

"It's a school," said Voldemort dismissively.

"The school is housed in the castle," Snape said. "The purpose of education belongs to the teachers."

"And the castle?"

"Its purpose is to protect its residents, the children most of all."

"How noble," Voldemort snarled.

"The charms have been layered and strengthened for centuries. Older ones have been remodeled for their responses to what is needed. It is … formidable."

The Headmaster was hinting at something, and clearly he expected his master to understand what that was. Annoyed, Voldemort changed the subject. "How many mudbloods have accepted places in the first-year class this year?"

"None, my Lord."

Voldemort was impressed. "Well done. How did you discourage them?"

"I made no such effort."

That was odd. "You sent no letters to muggleborns, then?"

"I did not."

"Why not?" Snape didn't answer, he just gazed at his master, expressionless as always. Voldemort shook off the familiar self-conscious itch of talking to this wizard. He'd become an automaton, and there were days when all Voldemort wanted to do was shake some emotion from him. He hadn't always been like that. Young Severus Snape was certainly sullen and terse, but underneath that, he was a boil of resentment and eagerness to prove himself. To a Legilimens, he broadcast his emotions constantly. He had a passion for knowledge and a craving for the Dark Arts that made him one of Voldemort's easiest recruits. All he had to do was promise infinite access to both. And the boy had embraced it all with abandon.

Young Snape had never had a taste for violence. The other young Death Eaters had accused him of cowardice, and Snape would curl his lip at them. If they pressed the issue, they found that the scrawny poor boy was essentially unbeatable, with his wand or his fists. Exploration of the boy's thoughts showed Voldemort no fear of confrontation. Snape simply considered aggression the tool of incompetent men and lazy wizards.

Over time, the Dark Lord learned more: the boy's treatment by his Muggle father was worse than any bullying he'd experienced in school; worse, in fact than anything young Tom Riddle had enjoyed at any stage of his life. It was almost a disappointment to see that the boy's ape of a father had died in a bar brawl. It would have been nice to order young Snape to dispose of his father himself, in any fashion he chose.

After the debacle at Godric's Hollow, there had been no way to keep track of any of his erstwhile followers. When he returned, the Dark Lord had been impressed to find that Snape had stayed at his post. He'd collected vast amounts of information for his Lord, never doubting his return. He'd continued his intellectual pursuits, including comprehensive and boringly academic study of the Dark Arts. And he'd done it right under Dumbledore's crooked nose! But it had altered the wizard vastly. He'd subjugated emotions to the point that even with Legilimency, Voldemort could hardly find evidence of the young man he once knew. As little personality remained as there was emotion on his face. Voldemort had given into temptation and subjected Snape to the Cruciatus curse just to hear him scream, but after Snape struggled back to his feet, Voldemort found no fear and no anger in his mind, and no care for the pain, only fatigue. The Dark Lord didn't press. He didn't want to find scorn aimed at himself, and he had yet to recognize that reluctance as important.

The other Death Eaters gave Snape a wide berth, even the ones who claimed that he was a traitor. But they hadn't seen inside his mind. Of all of them, Snape was the most committed to Darkness as well as his Lord's cause.

"Were there no mudblood children eligible this year?"

"There were not, my Lord."

"No one in the Book of Admittance?"

Snape gave a tilt of his head but did not repeat himself.

"Speaking of the Book," Voldemort said, "I'd like to see it."

The Headmaster nodded and rose to lead the Dark Lord to the office door. As always, his movements were fascinating. Really, did the man's feet ever touch the ground?

Snape crossed the landing at the top of the stairs and laid his palm on the wall. A door shimmered into view. He pushed it open and stepped back to allow his master entrance.

The room was round and windowless, topped with a conical ceiling under a turret top. Crystal light emanated from the walls, illuminating a few chairs and an oval table surmounted by an enormous ancient book. Next to the book sat a silver inkwell that contained a long quill: a green feather, black-tipped. The names of all the wizards and witches born on the British Isles since the days of Salazar Slytherin were in that book, wizarding history itself. Voldemort gave a delighted cry and crossed the room quickly, reaching for the book. He struck a boundary as hard as stone before his hands could get near the book. He looked at the Headmaster with a glare.

"No one has touched the Book of Admittance since it was laid on the table by the Founders," Snape intoned from the door.

"You cannot touch it?"

"No one," Snape repeated.

"Then how do you know whom to send letters?"

"A list appears on the Headmaster's desk on the first of the Year."

Voldemort read the open pages hungrily. "The blood status of these children is not written by their names."

"No, it is not. One of the surprises we discussed."

"Then how do you know which are Muggleborn?" This was very disappointing. He'd cherished a plan for so long of finding mudblood children and blocking their magic, or simply killing them, using this very list.

"That is one of the greatest surprises, my Lord."

"What do you mean?"

The Headmaster glided up to the table. "There are no Muggleborns."

The man was mad. Yes, that must be it. "Of course there are."

Snape merely stood there, a black void in the gleaming light. "No," was all he said.

As it always did, Snape's stern solemnity, his implacable stillness had finally raised his ire. He made people feel inferior, even the great Lord Voldemort. "Explain yourself," the Dark Lord hissed.

"If a child has been born in spontaneous connection with magic, that birth has been lost to memory. Of course, there had to be a first person to be able to use the energy we call magic."

"Plenty of Muggle parents have magical children. It's nearly a quarter of our population!"

"As it turns out," Snape said, sounding annoyingly professorial, "the students who come from the Muggle world have three origins. Some are half-bloods. They are the smallest share. A greater number are descendants of Squibs. And an appalling number are illegitimate get of wizards and witches, sent to Muggle orphanages, or if more fortunate, placed for adoption."

Voldemort contemplated this news for a moment. "It takes a long time for magic to re-appear in a Squib line."

"That, apparently, is a myth. It takes fewer than three generations."

Voldemort couldn't recall the last time he'd been this stunned. And he hated Snape for it. The Headmaster Summoned a chair from its place by the wall, and automatically, his master sat, staring at the book. "Three generations… How can blood be purified so soon?"

"Magic doesn't reside in the blood, my Lord. It is everywhere. Inbreeding of humans has the same results as for animals: shorter lifespans, increased vulnerability to illness, and degradation of organ systems. Bones become brittle, lungs weak, hearts even weaker, and the intellect … suffers the most."

If he mentioned the Carrows, Voldemort was prepared to hex him.

"And for us, it effects how our bodies receive and channel magic. It isn't the magic that weakens with each generation. It is the ability of the body to support it. The only way for a Squib-prone family to avoid that problem is to arrange matches with mates with absolutely no family connections."

"For the Sacred Twenty-Eight, that is impossible."

Snape nodded. The Dark Lord contemplated him.

It made sense. After Pettigrew drew him from the cauldron, Voldemort had put on a good show. The witnesses to his return were too overwhelmed by his very presence to really notice how weak he was. And he was feeble, his magical power barely there. His physical and magical strength increased together.

The Prince family wasn't Sacred Twenty-Eight, but were devoted to Pureblood marriage all the same, and they were fading as the Carrows did. Yet, Eileen Prince married a horrible example of Muggle, and her son was one of the most powerful wizards alive. Three generations, indeed. Could he match the Dark Lord himself for mastery? Months later, Voldemort would decide that Snape might overtake the Dark Lord's own Darkness. That was a threat – he could not to be tolerated. But, for now, he ignored the paranoia.

"And the bastards?" he said to change the subject.

"I haven't had much chance to investigate that group. They have been placed at all levels of society."

"And growing up in the Muggle world."

"Indeed."

"Dumbledore knew all this."

"All Heads knew this."

"And Dumbledore did nothing to bring this to light?"

"Ah," Snape said. He clasped his hands behind his back and paced around the table. "He tried. All of the florid language about anyone who could use magic should be welcomed by the Wizarding world was part of it."

"Why not come out and say it plain like a normal person?"

"Because he couldn't. No more than I am able to. No more than you will be."

"You go too far."

"My apologies, my Lord. No one is able to discuss what is seen in this room anywhere except in this room."

"Is one able to discuss the parchments that are conveyed to your desk?"

"Yes. But all that is on those parchments are names, birthdates and addresses."

Voldemort stared at the book, furious that it forbade the dissemination of such good – juicy - information.

Snape paced in front of the table. "The purpose is the protection of the children."

"They might not be bullied if the others knew who their ancestors were."

"Other children are not the danger. The adults are. A Pureblood bastard unmasked would be a great source of embarrassment to the parents, the cause of enormous family drama. Such a child could be the target of vengefulness from a betrayed spouse. Or a half-sibling may prefer not to share an estate. The family that cast off a Squib as an abomination, shutting the child in an orphanage or worse could see that Squib's grandchild as an embarrassment, proof of error, that they abandoned a child without adequate confirmation. All of these were sufficient reasons for murder, in the past. So the Book guards their secrets."

Certainly Snape couldn't know how his vocabulary stung as he spoke. "Abomination", "abandoned", "orphanage" were words that struck too close to home. He was abandoned as an abomination, and young Tom hated Muggles for his father's sins. But apparently Wizards do the same thing, for equally heinous reasons. The thought was a horror. An illegitimate Pureblood designated Muggleborn was falsely labeled. A Squib held the precious gift of magic for later generations. But Snape was right. At least such children could grow up.

Just then, the Quill of Acceptance quivered and rose, free of ink, to soar to the Book. Both men stood as close as they were permitted to watch it write:

"Jennifer Fairweather (Selwyn), born August 10, 1996. London."

"A by-blow?" Voldemort breathed.

"Perhaps. It doesn't distinguish. The only way to know is if her parents report that she was adopted."

"She was born two years ago."

"She displayed her first magic today. That is what is detected."

"There's no address."

"It isn't needed now."

Curiosity rose. "Can we see the entry for the Granger Girl?"

Snape came around the table to face the Book. "If you would, show me Hermione Jane Granger."

"You're awfully polite."

Snape cast him an inscrutable glance, but it felt like censure. "It is the Book of Admittance. Is there a Magical artifact that deserves more respect?"

Snape was spared a hex as the pages fluttered back seventeen years. "Hermione Jane Granger (McMillan). Born September 19, 1979."

"She's a McMillan! She's Sacred Twenty-Eight!"

"I actually researched her. She is the great-granddaughter of Esme McMillan, born 1915. A Squib. Her sister married a Black."

"Tossed into one of those orphanages." Inwardly, Voldemort shuddered at memories.

"Not she," Snape said. "She was adopted by a well-to-do family. Minor nobility. Her adoptive father was an MP."

"So the Granger girl is upper class, then?" He watched Snape incline his head. Inconvenient, that. "Did her parents resist her coming to Hogwarts?"

"They did not. By all reports, they are proud of her heritage. In both worlds."

And potentially influential enough to be trouble when the time comes. Voldemort sat again. "We've been hemorrhaging Wizarding blood into the Muggle world for how long?"

"Always. I have thoughts, my Lord, of collecting data about this, once there is time after our … political unrest is resolved. We may not be able to stop this directly, but we can find a way to retrieve the ones in orphanages. At least to start." Snape gestured elegantly at the Book. "And of course, they come back, my Lord."

Eventually yes, but forever tainted by the inferior world they were forced to grow up in. "They don't all accept their letters, do they?"

"That is true. I will also have to form a clearer picture of how many."

This should change everything. Eventually, it would. Now was not the time to determine how to present any form of this knowledge to the Pureblood Elite in his service. He hadn't finished bleeding them dry of their wealth, and only a few would stay loyal after hearing this. It would be an all-too-confusing about-face after all his persuasions that they were in danger from the Muggleborns.

Well, they were in danger from the children growing up in the Muggle world, since every one of them is a personal embarrassment. Foolish, arrogant rich men, throwing away children with precious magic. They deserved to be embarrassed. Perhaps, once things were settled, Voldemort could clean houses, so to speak. New families to be elevated to Sacred status. Or, even better, old family castoffs to replace the magically and physically weak elders who rejected them. Granger may well be a lost cause, but young Miss Fairweather could be convinced to change her name and assume her heritage. Yes, that was a possibility.

Yes, this changed everything, but it didn't change the War for now. Better to save it for his reconstruction plans. Yes.

"You've given me much to think about, Severus," Lord Voldemort said. And he promptly forgot all about the evening's revelations.

The Headmaster sketched a bow. "Is there anything else I can do for you, Master?"

"No. I must take my leave. Thank you, my servant."

"You are most welcome my Lord."

They crossed the landing as the secret door erased itself. Without any more ceremony, Voldemort breached the still-open window and flew away.

After watching him fly over the Forbidden Forest, Snape collapsed into his chair and dropped his head into his hands on the desk.

"Severus?" came a muffled voice.

Snape stayed still for a while, though. When he at last sat up, his face was no longer the smooth mask, and his shoulders were slumped. He waved a hand at the drapes over the portrait.

"It is done," he said wearily. "It will make no difference." The only benefit was in hiding information about locations. The Book had been surprisingly accommodating.

"It will be interesting to see," the portrait said. "You look awful. You don't normally Occlude so … severely. It drains you."

"Yes, it does. But the night he returned, I was so anxious I overdid it. And now I'm forced to keep the same appearance. It bothers him, I think."

"You must be that severe whenever the Carrows are present."

"Yes. But for them, I can merely act without Occluding. The other faculty members are confused."

"I'm sure you can manage, my boy. But I fear for your sanity."

Snape gave a hollow laugh. "It won't matter, Albus. I won't last the year."

FIC: Shedding His Childhood Skin (PG)

2024-01-11T12:10:51Z

Title: Shedding His Childhood Skin
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Three
Characters: Severus Snape, Minerva McGonagall, Albus Dumbledore
Author: geminisister
Beta(s): Jocos
Rating: PG
Click to View Bad language, Bad Headmaster Dumbledore, Unspeakables.
Note(s): Thanks to the organisers and my beta for all of their help.
Summary: Severus Snape reluctantly takes up the post as Professor of Potions at Hogwarts, but not is all as it appears. He has friends in secret places and secrets of his own to keep.

Headmaster Dumbledore was furious with his new Professor of Potions, as he had gone behind his back and used magic to assist a squib and Hagrid the groundsman. He was shaking with anger as he had liked to keep things as they were and now Severus had gone and interfered.

There was no time to reprimand him as the students were slowly making their way into the Great Hall. Minerva, his deputy head was off supervising the arrival of the first years and Flitwick was waiting for the students who were in his choir to arrive in order to rehearse the Hogwarts song.

He would chastise him later in private and his eyes twinkled with malice. Severus Snape had to be firmly put in his place and know who was in charge. He had manipulated him as a child and now would enjoy manipulating him more as an adult. He had ensured that he had no friends. It was all for the greater good of course.

+++
Earlier…

Severus Snape stood on the platform of Hogsmeade train station, awaiting the imminent arrival of the Hogwarts Express. Dumbledore had forced the role upon him to escort students to the castle and to supervise Hagrid and Filch with their duties as well.

It had begun to rain just as he heard the whistle of the Magical Express. He listened to Filch grumping about animal shite and heavy luggage and it taking him hours to finish the fucking chore. He cast a magical spell over the cart, it would now hold much more and also be light as a feather to move. He wondered how long it would take him to become aware he now had a magical cart.

Severus had earlier seen the rickety boats that had not changed since he had sailed across to Hogwarts in his First year. He recalled how students had been traumatised by landing in the water or being drenched due to the bad weather. He secretly cast a spell to ensure all boats got across safely.

He also noticed the worn ropes between the boats linking them and made them unbreakable. He knew he could do nothing about Hagrid. He was a law unto himself.

He watched the train draw to a halt and Hagrid called out for the first years bringing back memories of his own first day at Hogwarts and subsequent arrivals that perhaps were not so pleasant.

Severus had had other job offers and there had been one in particular he had wanted, but Dumbledore had forced his hand into taking this one. The other job — well Dumbledore did not know about that job and he never would. Severus had a secret to keep and he vowed above all else Albus Dumbledore would never discover it.

+++
Even earlier…

Dumbledore had exploited Minerva McGonagall for years, or so he thought. He had blackmailed her into moving from her previous ministry job to becoming a professor.

But Minerva had a secret, she in fact was an Unspeakable and had been undercover for years, feeding much information back to them about Dumbledore. This way they could take action to suppress his plans and move their own, putting paid to many of his outrageous schemes.

She had been shocked when she discovered that Severus Snape was to be used as his next scapegoat in Albus’s latest “for the greater good” plan. The headmaster could not help himself from crowing that he had the best potioneer in Britain about to become his new professor of potions.

+++
Inside the Department of Mysteries, Minerva waited anxiously for their newest recruit to join them. She would be his supervisor and apart from her and her boss, no one else would know his true identity. In the past they had discovered a mole in their secret organisation and it was crucial no one else knew.

When he walked into the secret office, Severus Snape was stunned when an Unspeakable removed their disguise and revealed themselves to be Minerva McGonagall. The senior Unspeakable only gave his code name and did not reveal to him his true identity.

“Oh laddie, come here.” She opened her arms to him and he stepped into her warm embrace. He knew that his mum and Minerva had been friends as children at school and she had visited his mum as she lay dying at Spinner’s End and had attended her funeral too.

She handed over to him an envelope with a crest embedded into the wax. The letter was stained and old.

He looked quizzically across at the witch but she gave her head a little shake. He understood whatever she had to say could wait.

+++
Severus had gained his Mastery In Potions quicker than any student for centuries. He also did not pay for his tuition by being gifted money from the Dark Lord or Lucius Malfoy, but he let others think that it could be one of them.

Instead, it had come from a legacy from the Prince family. His mother had failed to inform him before her death that all Princes came into money on their graduation from Hogwarts. The cost of his Mastery education had been paid in full.

He was informed in the letter given to him by Minerva that his Great Uncle, Severus Prince had been an Unspeakable and he had requested that his great nephew be given the opportunity to join when he reached twenty one years old.

He had long since discovered that Albus Dumbledore used tea, sugar and sweets to poison, manipulate and get into people’s heads, but he was stronger now and knew much more how to combat the old wizard’s tricks.

During his Mastery had learned so much more of the outside world. He also learned so much more about Albus than ever before and not all good either but that of course was not new to him.

He was going to need to be subtle. He smiled to himself, at least if he is an ugly bastard with greasy hair made worse after brewing he would be unlikely to be followed or mooned over by students.

+++
He and the DOM had come up with a guise that he loved. He had new robes with lots of buttons, a nasty attitude toward students and vowed to keep everyone safe in his classroom no matter what that old fool did.

Minerva had been a great help creating his new guise and adding her unique specialised charms.

Severus was especially proud of the way his robes billowed. That was all Minerva’s doing, she had cast charms onto his robes and cloak so they would swirl around him, he looked like a giant bat and the first time he saw his silhouette he nearly had a heart attack. It was perfect.

+++
The latest Unspeakable addition to the DOM was ready, Severus Tobias Snape Disapparated, heading off on his first mission.

He knew his mentor and boss would be close to hand should he require further help or advice. He was now looking forward to becoming the new Professor of Potions at Hogwarts.

This Slytherin had cast away his childish skin and now stood a powerful man, a wizard his late mum and Uncle Severus could be proud of.

Headmaster Dumbledore was going to rue the day that he ever thought that Severus Tobias Snape was a pushover.

FIC: Visiting the Library (PG)

2024-01-10T13:00:02Z

Title: Visiting the Library
Type: Fic
Age-Range Category: Two
Characters: Severus Snape, Lily Evans
Author: goddess47
Rating: PG
Click to View Older Slytherin student being nasty to Severus; canon unpleasant behavior between James Potter and Severus.
Summary: They finally had time to visit the Hogwarts Library!

Severus all but ran to breakfast. It was finally Saturday! He and Lily could finally explore the Library!

They had arrived at Hogwarts on Wednesday but they had little time outside of class together and were given no time to explore on their own. It was as if the Prefects were worried they would get lost on their first days in the school. The good thing was that the Slytherins and Gryffindors had Potions together on Friday afternoons, so while Lily and Severus somehow were not allowed to work together, they were across the aisle and could talk.

Severus was early enough that breakfast hadn't been served yet. He took a piece of fruit from the bowl on the table and hungrily ate the apple. While he was eating, breakfast started to appear.

"Firstie is eager," an older Slytherin that Severus had not been introduced to teased.

Severus shrugged. He knew enough from his Mam to be polite to the older students and, if needed, to simply ignore any teasing. But to report anything cruel to his Head of House.

He had kept his head down for the four days he had been here. He wanted to learn magic and... everything. He wasn't going to risk being dismissed for anything.

"Going to the Library," Severus replied blandly. Which was the truth.

"Another swot," the older student rolled his eyes. "Guess we need at least a couple of those to keep up the House points in classes."

"Leave the kid alone," an older girl said. "You were a firstie once yourself. And you would benefit from spending some time in the Library, Denny!"

"But it's too easy!" the boy, Denny evidently, protested.

"And I'm telling you to stop," she said firmly.

"I haven't even begun!"

"I'll tell Slughorn," she threatened.

"Oh, all right. Spoil all my fun!" Denny followed the girl to the other end of the long table.

Severus made a note to find out their names. Mostly so he could thank the girl for her intervention. They hadn't been introduced to all of the older students. He should suggest that to the Prefect.

The hot breakfast was always welcome. It was more food than his Mam served and Severus knew enough to eat reasonable portions and not just stuff himself. But it didn't stop him from taking a second glass of pumpkin juice.

He looked around, grateful to see Lily eating at the Gryffindor table. She smiled at him and then turned back to the girl sitting next to her.

Severus took another piece of toast, to keep busy while Lily was still eating. He wasn't going to draw attention to himself by not eating while he sat at the table.

Lily finally finished eating. Severus hastily drank the last of the pumpkin juice and got up.

Severus hung back against the wall as Potter and his friends sat down at the table. Potter had already decided that Severus was an 'enemy' and even more so since Severus had been sorted to Slytherin. His Mam had warned him about House rivalries but to be declared an enemy while still on the train to Hogwarts was ridiculous.

Lily came up and bounced on her toes. "Ready?" she asked. Like Severus, she had not put on robes although Severus' supply of Muggle clothes was limited. He didn't think of that, there was exploring to do!

Severus nodded. "Let's go," he said.

"Hey, Evans," Potter called. "Where you going with him?"

"None of your business, James Potter!" Lily retorted. She turned to Severus and took his hand. "Let's get out of here!"

They hurried out of the Great Hall and stood still for a moment to get their bearings.

"This way!" Lily pointed.

"Lead on!" Severus agreed.

They had a few false starts before they made it to the Library.

"There should be a map!" Lily complained. "How does anyone find anything in this maze?"

Huh. Maybe you could get lost in the school.

"We should get used to it," Severus replied. "Especially now that we know where it is."

"True," Lily agreed.

They stepped into the Library and Severus had to stop and just look.

This wasn't like any Library he had ever seen before. It went up and up, likely to the top of the castle. There were tables and chairs for students to use on one side of the room and then there were the bookshelves. From the door, Severus couldn't begin to count the rows of shelves and he could see that some of them extended further than he could see. There were books flying everywhere overhead.

"It has to be Wizarding space," Lily breathed.

"Well, it is a magic school," Severus replied. But he grinned.

"Let's go inside!" Lily grabbed Severus' hand and dragged him inside.

"How do you find anything?" Severus asked. There didn't seem to be any signage or anything that looked like a card catalog.

"I don't know," Lily replied with a frown.

Severus learned quickly not to run his hands along the spines of the books on the shelves when he was nipped by one of the books.

"Ow!" Severus said.

"What?"

"It bit me!" Severus held out the side of his hand with a red mark on it.

"That's... not right?" But it was more of a question than anything.

"I'm not bleeding and it surprised me more than anything," Severus admitted, sucking on the hurt for a moment. "I'm okay."

"Good to know," Lily said.

They wandered to a section that had a rope across the aisle. A sign hung from the rope.

Restricted

"What makes it Restricted?" Lily asked.

"I'm not going to risk it," Severus said, taking half a step away from the aisle.

"It's probably like the adult section in a Muggle library," Lily guessed. "You have to be older or have permission."

"Sounds about right," Severus agreed.

They eventually found an office with a woman behind an overflowing desk. The walls were lined with shelves that had books crammed into every possible space.

Lily tapped on the door frame. "Excuse me. Are you the Librarian?"

The woman looked up and squinted through thick glasses at them. "I am." She squinted again then took off the glasses. "Sorry, reading some fine print. How may I help you?"

"We're new students and were wondering how to find anything in the library," Lily explained.

"Just ask it," the woman said.

"I'm sorry, but... how?" Lily asked.

The woman sighed. "Muggleborn?"

"Yes," Lily admitted.

She got up from the desk and stood in the open space. "It's a matter of intent more than anything. If you have a general need, hold your wand like this." She held her wand pointing away from her. "Say what you are looking for."

"Like this?" Lily held her want out.

"Good," the Librarian nodded. "Now ask for something general."

Lily thought for a moment and said firmly, "Potions."

"That may be a bit too general but you should be able to follow your wand to the area of the library that has books about potions."

"Finite." Lily said firmly.

"Good. Now ask for something more specific," the Librarian directed.

"Making Bruise Balm," Lily said.

"Much better," the woman nodded. "Anything else?"

"There was a sign on an area that is Restricted?" Severus asked.

"Wards will keep you out until you are sixteen or you have a note from a professor to give you access," she said. "That almost never happens until you are at least fourth year students."

"Anything else we should know?" Severus asked.

"No food or drink in the Libary," she said immediately. "Do not write in any book for any reason. Leave books you are finished with on the carts, they will re-shelve themselves."

"Do many of the books bite?" Severus asked.

"They do," she nodded.

"Oh." Severus wasn't sure what to say to that.

"Thank you for your time," Lily said politely. "We appreciate your help."

"You are welcome," she said, turning to go back into the office without a further glance.

"What do you want to find?" Lily asked, holding her wand up.

"How about something about Transfiguration?" Severus suggested. "We already have homework, let's get it done."

Lily's eyes lit up. "Good idea." She turned and held out her wand. "Introduction to Transfiguration!"

Severus followed as she plunged down an aisle between towering shelves of books.