Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/ works/11926557. Rating: Explicit Archive Warning: Graphic_Depictions_Of_Violence, Rape/Non-Con, Underage Category: F/M Fandom: Harry_Potter_-_J._K._Rowling Relationship: Lily_Evans_Potter/Severus_Snape, Lily_Evans_Potter_&_Severus_Snape Character: Lily_Evans_Potter, Severus_Snape, James_Potter, Eileen_Prince, Tobias Snape, Petunia_Evans_Dursley, Vernon_Dursley, Mrs_Evans_(Harry_Potter), Mr_Evans_(Harry_Potter), Sirius_Black, Euphemia_Potter, Fleamont_Potter, Bathilda_Bagshot, Alice_Longbottom, Frank_Longbottom, Tom_Riddle_| Voldemort, Bellatrix_Black_Lestrange, Lucius_Malfoy, Nagini_(Harry Potter), Albus_Dumbledore, Rabastan_Lestrange, Rodolphus_Lestrange, Kingsley_Shacklebolt, Remus_Lupin, Narcissa_Black_Malfoy, Madam_Rosmerta, Aberforth_Dumbledore, Sybill_Trelawney, Peter_Pettigrew, Avery_Jr._(Harry Potter), Mulciber_Jr._(Harry_Potter), Gellert_Grindelwald, Augusta Longbottom, Original_Character, Bartemius_Crouch_Jr., Minerva_McGonagall, Orion_Black, Walburga_Black, Regulus_Black, Kreacher_(Harry_Potter), Merope_Gaunt, Marvolo_Gaunt, Morfin_Gaunt, Tom_Riddle_Sr., Caractacus Burke, Helena_Ravenclaw, The_Bloody_Baron, The_Grey_Lady_(Harry_Potter), Rowena_Ravenclaw, Godric_Gryffindor, Helga_Hufflepuff, Salazar_Slytherin, Evan_Rosier, Wilkes_(Harry_Potter), Draco_Malfoy, Fawkes_(Harry_Potter), Dobby_(Harry_Potter), Dedalus_Diggle Additional Tags: Post_Hogwarts_AU, Post-Hogwarts, Hogwarts_Fifth_Year, Angst, Heavy_Angst, Fluff_and_Angst, Angst_and_Hurt/Comfort, Angst_and_Fluff_and_Smut, Angst and_Feels, Comfort/Angst, Rain, Spinner's_End, Cokeworth, Three_Years Later, Alternate_Universe, Alternate_Universe_-_Canon_Divergence, Alternate_Universe_-_Harry_Potter_Setting, Hurt, Emotional_Hurt/Comfort, Hurt/Comfort, Memories, Childhood_Memories, Feelings_Realization, Separations, Left_Husband, Married_Wrong_Person, Death_Eaters, Male- Female_Friendship, Friends_to_Lovers, Friendship, Best_Friends, Gryffindor, Slytherin, Gryffindor/Slytherin_Inter-House_Relationships, Hogwarts_Inter-House_Relationships, Hogwarts_Inter-House_Friendships, Revelations, Dark_Mark, Forgiveness, Second_Chances, Adulthood, Explicit Language, Drama_&_Romance, Romance, Childhood_Friends, Mistakes, Sexy Times, Marauders'_Era, Snily, Snape_&_Lily_Forever, Severus_&_Lily, Lily Evans_Potter_&_Severus_Snape_Friendship, First_War_with_Voldemort, James Potter_Bashing, Minor_James_Potter/Lily_Evans_Potter, Nudity, Partial Nudity, Regret, Suspicions, Daily_Prophet, Making_Out, Making_Up, Implied/Referenced_Sex, Implied_Sexual_Content, Kissing, Rough_Kissing, Gentle_Kissing, Love_Bites, Order_of_the_Phoenix_(Harry_Potter), Godric's Hollow, Wedding, Divorce, Post-Divorce, Flashbacks, Loss_of_Parent(s), Arguing, Pregnancy, Aurors, Malfoy_Manor, House_Elves, Snakes, James Potter_Being_an_Asshole, Poetry, Unexpected_Visitors, Forest_of_Dean, Camping, Bathing/Washing, Bathtubs, Oral_Sex, Cunnilingus, Sex, Making Love, Not_Suitable/Safe_For_Work, Sorry_Not_Sorry, Explicit_Sexual Content, Nightmares, Orgasm, Patronus, Snow_and_Ice, Secrets, Occlumency, Legilimency, Hogsmeade, Recruitment, Animagus, Past_Abuse, Past_Child Abuse, Past_Alcohol_Abuse/Alcoholism, Bullying, Blizzards_&_Snowstorms, Prophecy, Firewhiskey, Canon_Backstory, Backstory, Alternative Perspective, Fluff, Fluff_and_Smut, Romantic_Fluff, Pensieves, Lies, Fidelius_Charms, Secret_Keeper, Childbirth, Boy-Who-Lived_Neville Longbottom, Culling, Lullabies, Masturbation, Torture, Blood_and_Torture, Murder, Miscarriage, Avada_Kedavra, Cruciatus, Sectumsempra, Destruction, Betrayal, Post-Traumatic_Stress_Disorder_-_PTSD, Guilt, Survivor_Guilt, Grimmauld_Place, London, Peter_is_a_Little_Shit, Azkaban, Confrontations, Horcruxes, Harry_Potter_is_Not_a_Horcrux, Horcrux_Hunting, Slytherin's Locket, Resurrection_Stone, Implied/Referenced_Incest, Emotional/ Psychological_Abuse, Sexual_Abuse, Child_Abuse, Abuse, Verbal_Abuse, Love Potion/Spell, Hogwarts_Founders_Era, Heir_of_Hogwarts_Founders, Room_of Requirement, Manticore, Tom_Riddle's_Diary, Fiendfyre, Basilisk(s), Babies, Happy_Ending, Eventual_Happy_Ending, Epilogue, Long, Phoenix tears, Birthday_Party, Voldemort_Dies, Evil_Voldemort, Wordcount: 100.000-150.000 Stats: Published: 2017-09-19 Completed: 2017-12-19 Chapters: 35/35 Words: 130499 ****** Hope Remains ****** by Valardoheris Summary It's been nearly two years since they left Hogwarts... Two years that have passed, leading them down differing paths and farther away from each other. Severus Snape became a Death Eater, and Lily Evans married James Potter. But then on a stormy night, everything changed. Notes This story was an absolute monster to write, which set me through so many different emotions and thoughts along the way. I am immensely proud of it, and love it with every fiber of my being. Happy reading, I hope to see you all to the end! It goes without saying that I own none of the characters, nor do I hope to profit financially from any of this. :) ***** The Tempest ***** Chapter Notes There is a portion of this beginning chapter taken directly from the brilliant J. K. Rowling in her seventh book, Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows. See the end of the chapter for more notes “The truth is all around you, plain to behold. The night is dark and full of terrors, the day bright and beautiful and full of hope…” -George R.R. Martin [tempest] Late_November_of_1979 Shadows bathed the cobblestone streets as rain fell in heavy, fat droplets from the inky-black evening sky. The onslaught of the rain had been sudden and relentless in its ferocity. The brick houses stood in forgotten rows, their windows often marred with cracks or jagged edges of neglect, no sign of light emitting from their depths. Spinner’s End had long been a scar on Cokeworth, a memory of the industrial time when the mill had brought forth a hope and promise of future for the working-class family. Those days were long gone, the mill still standing as a ruin upon the horizon, symbolic of nothing except neglect and the broken dreams and ambitions of a generation that had long moved on, or remained behind to wallow in a state of destituteness. The figure kept to the shadows, moving with aptness and a determination to keep out of sight. The wetness had long washed the rubbish from the streets and sidewalks, little sloughs replacing the once summer-kissed lanes. And still the figure leapt over them, without so much as a splash or audible ‘click’ of a heel. A sudden rumble of thunder, and then crack of lightening, briefly bathed the scene in a strobe of bright white light. The figure looked up at the fading etch of lightening, face momentarily silhouetted by the glow. Pulling their black cloak tighter, they resumed their movements after the blackness had once again enveloped them, slipping once more into the shadows. For every house passed, not one showed even a remote glimpse of habitation, not until the end of the lane. The very last house backed up to a tumultuous and dark river, once the runoff of the mill, and most certainly brown and filthy by the light of the day. The exterior was no different in appearance from any of the others, the yard of no concern, white paint peeling from the door and along the trim. The only sign of occupancy came from the dull glow behind the pulled drapes, almost undiscernible unless standing at the foot of the front steps. The figure’s black leather boots sunk slightly into the sucking, thick churn of mud, rain cascading down the front of the cloak, and continuing in delicate trails down to the sodden earth. For a long moment they stared, unmoving in their study of the exterior of the place. As if answering their question, the door cracked open with a loud and protesting squeak. The figure made it up two steps before being grabbed roughly by the inhabitant of the crumbling house and slammed into the wall beside the still ajar door, their hood continuing to conceal them from view. “And to whom do I owe this unannounced visitation?” the man questioned in a low and precisely versed tone, his wand raised in defense, pressed to the throat of the hidden figure. He was tall, dressed in long black robes, his hair equally black and shiny, falling to his shoulders, and slightly into his eyes with suspicion. The eyes were narrowed, scarcely more than two black slits of distrust, his mouth a frown, teeth slightly bared in dislike. The figure struggled silently in his grasp, met with strength that overpowered its own, and forced to remain pressed to the crumbling exterior of the house. “Who sent you?” he spat, “The Dark Lord will hear about this transgression, and you will be met with death- “ His words fell away as the hood of the cloak shifted slightly, and a curl of auburn hair fell from its depths. Closing his partially open mouth, he stared intently at the lock of hair as though he had seen a ghost, his complexion paling even more than its normal shade. Slowly he moved his eyes higher, studying the depths of the concealed blackness of the hood, and the hint of emerald green eyes within. Loosening his grip on the figure slightly, he wrenched the hood back, revealing the last person he thought he would ever be faced with again. “Lily?” “Severus…” A silence fell between the pair as they stared at one another with a multitude of emotions melded into one. The rain continued to fall around them, though they remained dry from the porch of the house. Dark eyes locked with emerald green ones, both unwavering in their study of the other, both unable to find the words that they wished to speak- So much had passed between them over the years, much of it good, though some of it best left unsaid. It had been close to three years since their lives had crossed paths, and time had changed them both. Slowly Severus Snape lowered his wand from its place at Lily Evans’ throat, his hand falling to his side, and his grip on her shoulder loosening until only his fingertips lingered in a quiet caress of the damp fabric that shielded her from the rain. She didn’t smile, and her features gave no inkling or hint as to why she had suddenly appeared on the doorstep of his childhood home after so many years. “Did you want to come in?” he asked her, his mouth dry, though finally able to form words, his voice scarcely more than a whisper. She nodded, moving from the wall he had pinned her against, and slipping through the doorway and into the dimness of the Snape family home. He followed her inside, shutting and barring the door tightly, and whispering an incantation for good measure. When he turned back around, she had hung the black cloak upon the standing coat rack by the door. Her head was bent, hands moving over the front of her clothes, a dark floral long-sleeved dress, the hem reaching just above her knee, leggings visible beneath. She tapped her boots to remove any excess water from them, the black leather shiny from the rain, reaching just below her knees. But her hair, as always, was what entranced him. Long and red like fire, curls falling in loose waves to the small of her back. Even after three years, three long years of swearing off of this girl he had long pined for, long loved from afar, and knew deep down, that he could never win her love… She still managed to bring an ache to his chest, and a flutter of anxiety to his stomach at the sight of her. When she raised herself back up to full height, her eyes once again fell upon his. The most stunningly green eyes he had ever met, almond-shaped, and fiery with gold flecks. She licked her lower lip, moistening the soft pink flesh that called to him. She chose her path, and you chose yours. “Severus, it’s been a long time…” she began at last, her voice the same, though a deep sadness clear in its notes. He swallowed and nodded, “Yes it has.” “I- I know we left a lot of things unsaid…” “That was your choice, not mine.” She bit her lip uncomfortably this time, diverting her eyes, as she clasped her hands together, “We were young...” “Old enough that you couldn’t forgive,” he heard himself say, the pains of that fateful day long believed dead flaring within him once more. “You called me a Mudblood!” she shouted, her brow furrowing with sudden anger, “What did you expect me to do?” “To realize that I fucked up!” he shouted back, “I told you I was sorry! I waited for hours outside of the Gryffindor Tower to see you, and to tell you how much I regretted that- How much I knew, and still know, that I can never take it back. Lily, don’t tell me that you believe for one second, that I haven’t felt shame these past three years for what happened between us…” he paused, stepping towards her, “You were my best friend! Hell, you were my only real friend, and I fucked everything up. I drove you away from me, and into the arms of that piece-of-shit, Potter. I loved you.” She had been staring at him intently, though at his last revelation, her eyes filled with tears, her face transforming with the emotions she felt at the words he spoke. “I was afraid to say it then, afraid of the rejection that I would face at hearing you tell me I was only a friend… That I would only ever just be your friend. But I have nothing to lose now, nor hide when it comes to you. I loved you, Lily Evans. I loved you with every bone in my body and would do anything for you… I still would.” A sob escaped her, and she swayed on her feet, slipping to the dusty floorboards of the forgotten living room, the furniture something of a time machine to that of their youth, the walls lined with shelves, and the shelves filled with tome upon tome and countless other books. She covered her face with her hands and cried, the memories of their childhood flooding over her, and the moment that had inevitably driven them apart. “I’m sorry.” “I’m not interested.” “I’m sorry!” “Save your breath.” She was transported to that moment when she had begrudgingly left the common room of the Gryffindor Tower to find Severus waiting outside the portrait of the Fat Lady, his arms crossed over his chest, determined to see her. She was wearing her white nightgown with a red robe open over her shoulders; angry and hurt. She was just sixteen, but her emotions rendered her blinded by a disregard for anything that her oldest and closest friend might tell her. She wanted him to feel the pain that he had caused her, and she hoped that if he could see her wounded by his words, that she might somehow be able to persuade him away from the path he seemed determined to follow. “I only came out because Mary told me you were threatening to sleep here.” “I was. I would have done. I never meant to call you Mudblood, it just- “ “Slipped out?” she could hear herself say, her own anger overcoming her, “It’s too late. I’ve made excuses for you for years. None of my friends can understand why I even talk to you. You and your precious little Death Eater friends – you see, you don’t even deny it! You don’t even deny that’s what you’re all aiming to be! You can’t wait to join You-Know-Who, can you?” She hadn’t even let him explain, she hadn’t wanted to. Nothing of his explanations or thoughts mattered to her, and all she had aimed to do was wound and hurt him with her words. Had it been her fault that he had made friends with the likes of Avery and Mulciber? She couldn’t blame herself for that, he had needed to make friends within his own House at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry… But why did it have to be them? Why the supremacist Pure-Blood families that sought to exterminate everyone who was not like them? The likes of people who insisted that she was just a ‘freak’… The idea long shared with her older sister. Lily had thought that Severus had been different, that he had been able to see her for more than just how she had been gifted with magic at birth… After all, he wasn’t a Pure-Blood either. But had he joined the Death Eaters just as a means to impress her? To prove that he could be something? And what had she done? For all of those years she had been friends with the Slytherin, despite the pressures within their two rival Houses, she had run into the arms of the one person she long couldn’t stand. James Potter had tormented Severus for years, she had witnessed it first-hand, and yet despite her long-felt dislike towards the Chaser of the Gryffindor Quidditch Team, she had finally relented and gone on a date with him. More so, she had married him shortly after the end of their seventh-year, the ‘perfect couple,’ the Head Boy and the Head Girl. Look at how well that had turned out… Maybe it had all been a farce she had been just too blind to recognize from her own bitterness towards her old friend, and childish determination to hurt him worse than he had her. “Sev, I’m sorry,” she managed at last, her voice choked with tears, “I know you can’t take back what you said, and I know that I can’t change anything that I’ve done either… I hurt you, and I meant to… I wanted to! And all I did was hurt myself just as much in the long run. I was fucking stupid, Sev! We both were… But I should have listened to you, I should have cared more about our friendship and everything that we had been through together. You were my first friend! You knew me for a witch before I even knew it myself. I failed you, I fucked up and I can’t take it back… I don’t expect you to forgive me, and I don’t deserve you or your love, not after all of the things that I’ve done- How I turned my back on you when all you wanted to do was talk.” She shook her head, eyes filled with tears, her cheeks stained with the trails they had made when falling from her eyes, “I should have- I should have…” He knelt before her, a hand lightly covering one of her own, “Should have done what?” She swallowed a hard lump of emotion in her throat, her attention momentarily snapped to the feel of his warm hand upon hers. She stared at it, his hand, his touch proving the comfort she somehow desperately needed. Slowly she turned to meet his eyes once more, utter seriousness coming over her, “I shouldn’t have pushed you away. I should have thrown my arms around you and told you how much you meant to me… How much you still mean to me. I should have told you that I loved you, and that I was just a stupid sixteen-year-old that only wanted to hurt you worse than you hurt me. I didn’t want more pain in your life, and I could only see the Death Eaters bringing you that. Instead, I did it to you myself. I drove you to them, I threw you away like garbage, and I’ve never been able to forgive myself for it.” A new sob escaped her and she diverted her gaze, the tears breaking from her eyes and falling in new waterfalls down her cheeks and in droplets to the floor. “I lost myself when I drove you away. I forgot everything that mattered most, and here I am now… Two years older and with nothing to show.” “You married him- “ She bit her lower lip, the taste of her salty tears overpowering upon her tongue, “I left James.” Severus found himself at a loss for words, his mouth slightly agape, and brow furrowed as he studied the crumpled woman before him. “Why? Why would you do that? And how did you even know I’d be here?” She smiled, an expression both beautiful and desperately sad as her eyes found him once more, “I didn’t know you’d be here… I had hoped. But I had nowhere else to go. I had no one else to turn to, and I knew that my only chance was if you were still here- Still in Cokeworth, still in Spinner’s End.” He rose back up to his feet, fingertips and hands moving through his shoulder- length dark hair, a loud sigh emitting from deep within his chest. His eyes were closed as he rubbed his temples with his thumbs, the sleeves of his black robe falling down to his elbows. Lily’s eyes darted to the branded tattoo upon his inner left forearm, the skull with a coiling snake protruding from its mouth and twisting around maliciously. She sat up on her knees, eyes widening at the truth painted clearly before her for the first time. She covered her mouth to stifle the gasp she was unable to hold back. “God damn it, Lily…” he breathed, pinching the bridge of his nose, eyes still shut, “I never thought I would see you again- You can’t be found here, it isn’t safe.” “I’m not leaving you again,” she managed, rising back up to her feet, “James and I are through; I don’t know if we ever really were to begin with… Sev, please- “ “You can’t just replace him with me because you’ve had some revelation!” he shouted, rounding on her, “I came from nothing, Lily, and all I ever wanted was you. From the first moment I laid eyes on you in the park; even after you wanted nothing to do with me. There’s never been anyone else for me! And you went off and married that monster…” he threw his arms out in frustration, “I thought I’d finally gotten over you, and then somehow you show up on my doorstep, the ghost sent to haunt me until the end of my days.” “I’ll go if you want me to…” she whispered, eyes on the floor and the puddle her cloak had left from the torrential storm raging outside, “I’m sorry, I… I don’t know…” His back was to her, and she watched as his shoulders visibly slumped, his features softening from the rigidity and resentment he had loosed at being reunited with her again after so many years, and so many previously unspoken words. He turned, his eyes transformed to that which she remembered, uneasy, insecure, and focused entirely upon her. He made the few steps that separated them, “I don’t know either.” His words echoed hers, but when his arms closed around her, pressing her body to his, she felt herself melt and cling to him as though being parted would mean certain death. Her arms hugged tightly around him, her head finding comfort in the hollow between his shoulder and neck. His embrace was strong and almost crushing, though just what she somehow knew she had desperately needed all along. “I can still go,” she found herself telling him, her pink lips very close to his ear. The tip of his nose brushed against hers, their eyes remaining half-lidded until he had moved just slightly away from her. His breath was warm on her cool skin, and goosebumps prickled upon her exposed flesh from the sudden warmth and tickle of his stubble. “I would rather you stay.” She brushed her fingertips through his hair, lightly trailing them over his forehead, and then the curve of his cheek and jawline, her eyes studying his after a moment of exploration, “Do you forgive me?” “Only if you can forgive me, Ms. Potter,” he told her, and despite his vehemence at the emphasis upon her married name, she saw a sparkle of amusement playing in the depths of his deep brown eyes. “I should mop up that puddle,” she stated, observing the growing wetness from her cloak upon the wooden floorboards. “I think not,” he smirked, “I think you owe me something more than just housework.” “Oh?” she breathed, her lips grazing over his cheek. His hands held firmly at her waist, a slight tremble noticeable when she moved her hands down the roughness of his cheeks to his neck, and then pressed her lips firmly to his, the sensation something comparable to electricity shooting through both of their veins. He tasted of mint, she of vanilla. And as the storm continued to rage overhead, Severus Snape and Lily Evans found each other within a forgotten house, in a forgotten part of their childhood hometown. Chapter End Notes I am SO excited about this story!!! :) I hope you all enjoy it as well- This is, of course, only the first installment. And please let me know with kudos and comments about what you think!  If you'd like to listen to the song that really led me through the writing of this chapter, you can do so here: Broken_-_Lifehouse ***** Break of Dawn ***** Chapter Summary The morning after the storm. Rain still falls outside, and questions still linger within. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “Lay, lady, lay- Lay across my big brass bed. Stay, lady, stay- Stay with your man awhile... Why wait any longer for the one you love, when he’s standing in front of you?" -Bob Dylan [bed] In the early light of dawn, Severus stirred. Sleep did not come easily to him these days, but he found himself strangely relaxed, a part of his mind somehow eased. He sat up, the mattress bending slightly beneath him, as he moved his legs to the side of the bed and his feet emerged, hitting the cool floor. He rolled his spine in a ritualistic stretch, wiping the sleep from his eyes. The rain was still audible in its continued showering upon the outside world, the fresh smell of the storm flooding into the room from the cracked window sill. He ran his fingers through his dark hair and rose from the disheveled sheets. He strode nude from the small bedroom to the privy down the hall, and yawned as he entered the space. What was he doing? “You’re a fucking idiot is what you are,” he told himself with a shake of his head. In the years since the end of his and Lily’s friendship, things had changed in so many ways for the reserved Slytherin. He had always preferred quiet listening and observations to moments of passionate discord that his peers had often been so fond of. His actions the evening before had been unexpected even to him. He was normally not one to react, but Lily had brought all of his long subdued feelings and emotions to the surface. There had never been anyone quite like her… He had never met another person who could bring him so much joy, and yet shatter him so deeply. He sighed, turning the tab on the faucet and splashing his face and hair with cold water. When he raised his eyes to the cracked mirror above the basin, he stared at the reflection of the man before him. His dark hair hung plastered to his face, droplets still clinging to his pale flesh. His cheeks were covered in a two or three-day beard, his eyes dark, the shadow of circles beneath the sockets. He was no longer the boy who sought an escape from this very house on Spinner’s End, from his neglectful mother and abusive father. He was no longer a target for bullying and cruelty by the Marauders, led by James Potter, the ex-husband, and former lover of his longest friend. Hell, even she had ceased in enticing him when it came to her charms, her beauty, kindness… What was he kidding? “She can’t stay here, and you can’t protect her,” he told the reflection before him. After she had turned him away outside of the Gryffindor Tower in their fifth- year at Hogwarts, he had made the longest journey of his life, one that was merely floors from where she resided. He trudged alone, more alone than he had ever felt before, to the Slytherin Dungeon and his new friends. “Death Eater friends,” she had called them. She had been right; he couldn’t deny her that. Lily Evans was not stupid, no, she was so much more than that… And he had ruined everything. He stopped trying to win her affection and attentions after their fight. He pretended to stop caring, to stop loving, to stop missing her- All of which he was unsuccessful at. He watched in their seventh-year as she entered the school as Head Girl, and on the arm of the Head Boy- James Potter. She had looked radiant, happy, and as though he had never meant anything to her before. It was as though they had become strangers, all communication ceasing between them, even stares going unnoticed. They weren’t overlooked by him, but he knew that there was nothing that he could do, and so he stomached this reality- The fact that Lily was bound to make a future, and share a life with his greatest rival and enemy. He pretended not to care. He pretended to hate her and feel indifference towards the beautiful redhead. All of it lies. Avery and Mulciber had welcomed him into their circle, their father’s both longtime supporters of You-Know-Who. He was told that his abilities in the Dark Arts were something sought after, and that he could be of a great use to the supporting ranks of the Dark Lord. He was informed that he would be rewarded substantially for his contributions to the cause, and become one of many that were entrusted to the rise of the Greatest Wizard of All Time. What did he have left to lose? There was no place for him outside of the walls of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. No place for him in this shithole of a house with a broken mother, and alcoholic father whose best form of conversation with his only child, and only son, was yelled obscenities, and the beatings brought down from either his fists or belt. Severus gripped the edge of the porcelain sink with a hard fist, his knuckles white as he gritted his teeth, his jaw clenched almost painfully tight. He had always known that he had inherited his father’s looks, his father’s face. Tobias Snape was nothing but a drunk and useless excuse of a human being, and Severus Snape had long hated the man he had been cursed to call ‘father.’ The choice had been an easy one. He remembered seeing the newspaper one hot August night, shortly after paying his mother a visit. It had been one of the last times that he would see her before she passed away, and she had been so excited to show him the column within. “Do you see it? That girl Lily- The one you used to hang around with; well she’s a married woman now!” “I see, mum.” “Well aren’t you happy for her? The two of you used to be inseparable; what ever happened?” “We grew up.” “I had always hoped that the two of you would open your eyes and see what a perfect match you would have made… Too bad she’s a Potter now.” It had brought about a new wave of hurt and pain he had thought impossible. She was happy, she was married, and she was with a bastard like James Potter. The photograph in the newspaper had shown an animated and unmistakably happy couple. He knew that he should feel something reminiscent of joy or contentment for the life that Lily would lead, but that was nothing short of a charade. He had left his mother’s bedside and returned to his work alongside his former schoolmates, and under the watchful supervision of Lucius Malfoy. The wealthy and silver-haired Pure-Blood had been a Prefect during Severus’ first few years at Hogwarts, and he soon proved a close friend and confidante. If Lucius knew what transpired here, last night… He dried his face off with a hand towel and made his way back to the bedroom. As he stepped across the threshold he paused, finding himself glued to the spot, the air nearly knocked from his chest. In the few rays of light that slipped past the drawn blinds and into the space, his eyes fell upon the sleeping form in the old brass bed of his youth. She was laying partially on her side, and some on her stomach, her hair a sea of fiery curls splayed across the pillowcase- A sharp contrast to the white linen. Her eyes were shut, pink lips pursed in peaceful slumber, still swollen from the passionate kisses and little bites from the hours prior. The curve of her slender and fair neck met with an enticing dip at her collarbone, her shoulders bare, continuing all the way down her arms to her wrists and hands. The white sheet was wrapped around her middle, concealing her lower half, though just a hint of thigh, and the backs of both knees and calves were visible, her feet were bent gracefully, the toes painted a bright shade of lavender. His eyes moved over her in repeated stares of mixed disbelief and adoration. Lily Evans- No, Lily Evans Potter was a sight to behold. For all of his years of anguish at the loss of their friendship, the never-ending ache of his broken heart and wounded pride, Severus found himself still surprised that she could elicit such feelings in him again after just one meeting… A meeting after three years of silence. Pull yourself together, man! She whimpered something quiet in her sleep and shifted in the sheets, rolling onto her back, her arms moving up towards the headboard, her head turned away from him. The sheet slipped in her movements, falling down from her chest and revealing her right breast exposed to the chilly morning air. There was no diverting his gaze, and he fought a groan from deep within his chest as his eyes fell upon the supple and perfectly rounded breast with a blushing pink nipple pointing erect, and upwards, to the popcorn ceiling. He ran the fingers of his left hand absentmindedly through his messy hair, blinking his eyes repeatedly as he remembered the details of the night before- The events playing out like a film through his mind. She had kissed him, her lips soft and yet firm with desire. He had scooped her into his arms, her legs moving around his waist, ankles crossing at the small of his back. Her mouth had parted in a sigh, her eyes shut tightly, one hand holding onto the back of his neck, tangled in his black hair, the other pressed to his cheek, fingertips lightly biting into his stubble and the flesh beneath. He had caught her lip in a playful bite with his teeth, dragging them across that soft and sensitive skin and to the side of her jaw and then the softness of her neck. The smell of her hair had been intoxicating, both clean from the rain, and just a hint of lilac. He had pressed her into the door of the bedroom, a groan catching in his throat as her hand slipped from his face and down his front to clutch tightly at his robes. “I missed you.” “Never let go,” she had sighed, her eyes finding his, startling him with their seriousness for a moment, “Don’t leave me.” “Never again,” he had promised. She had reached lower and turned the doorknob, and he pressed the door open with her back, only setting her down once they were across the threshold of the room. She pulled his robe from his shoulders as though their lives depended upon it, his arms moving around her, hands pressed in a firm hold to her back as he brought her in for another kiss. Her mouth opened against his, their breaths hot with need and urgency as he had lightly licked her lower lip, his tongue slipping into her mouth. She had pressed her palms to his chest, her own tongue intertwining and dancing in equal exploration with his own. There was no hiding his arousal, he knew she could feel his desire- He wanted her to. He was absolutely mad for her, wanted her, craved her. And he could tell that she seemingly needed him just as badly. He moved his hands up her back to the zipper at the base of her nape, and pulled it downward, his hands moving to her shoulders and steadily edging the fabric off of them. She had broken their kiss then, licking her lips, her face flushed with the rush of ardor as she pulled her arms free from the sleeves of her dress and stepped from the garment, removing her leather boots and leggings at the same time, and standing before him in nothing except for her black bra and panties. His breathing had sped up at the sight of her undressing, and he stood frozen to the spot as she rounded on him, her hands finding the hem of his dark grey T-shirt and pulling it up his chest. He had taken it from there, discarding the garment alongside hers upon the floor, and then undid his belt and began unbuttoning the fly to his pants. “Sev…?” the voice was quiet which called to him, and it took him a moment to realize that Lily had woken up. He stared at her, slack jawed for a moment, forgetting his nakedness, and moved to the edge of the bed, sitting upon the mattress. The springs and bed squeaked against his added weight, the sheets cold from his lack of presence and body heat. He sat with his back to her, facing the cobwebbed wall, his hands once again resting on his thighs. Was this all just a big mistake? He could hear her stirring behind him, the sheets moving as she rolled onto his side of the bed, “Come back to bed.” Despite her words, Severus found himself lost in his thoughts and the gravity of his actions. He had dedicated himself to the Dark Lord and to his supremacist cause. For three years he had risen through the ranks, befriended the highest ranking supporters, and become a truly trusted member of the inner council. And he had thrown it all away in one night. He had put himself in utter peril at his lapse in judgement, at his weakness when it came to Lily. But it wasn’t a mistake. No, he was certain of that. He could never, and would never deny her. But his offense of bedding her, of potentially being caught with a Muggle-born in his bed, in as prone a state as they currently were, could mean only the ruin of them both if they were discovered. Behind him, Lily sat up, brushing the sheet from her exposed form, and rose upon her knees, pressing herself against him from behind, her arms moving around him and lightly caressing up and down his chest. He closed his eyes to her touch, the feel of the softness and smoothness of her skin and body sending a tingle of desire straight to his loins. She kissed his neck, slipping around the side of him and onto her feet. She stepped to the place between his legs, her auburn tresses in complete disarray, her hands resting lightly on his shoulders. She moved them to his neck and then his cheeks, forcing him to look up at her, and meet her stunning green eyes. “Is something the matter, my love?” My love. Her words broke his heart just as much as they filled him with a surge of elation. He searched her face for any sign of dishonesty, and he found none. She looked genuinely concerned and perplexed, and he shook his head in a silent answer to her question, “No.” “You’re cold,” she told him, her hands moving across his skin in touches that did nothing but stoke his already building lust, “Come back to bed, let me help warm you back up… I don’t want you to catch cold.” He kissed the center of her chest, his arms moving around her, and nodded after a short while. She smiled, her features set alight with happiness and moved back into the bed, pulling him in beside her by the hand. They laid on their sides facing one another, arms twined about the other, eyes locked in contentment. “Would it be terribly improper to stay like this forever?” she asked him, her voice quiet, fingertips absentmindedly playing with the hair on his forearm, and then across the light dusting on his chest. He smirked, “It all depends on what you consider ‘proper.’” “Is nakedness not proper, Severus Snape?” He chuckled, his fingers playing amongst her auburn curls, “Perhaps not for most, but I’ll take you however you see fit, Lily Potter.” “Could we leave the surname off?” He kissed her lightly on the lips, the tip of his nose playing with hers as he stared deeply into her eyes, “I thought you’d never ask.” Chapter End Notes I am beyond honored by the attention and positive feedback I have already been getting on this fic! Thank you all so much! ♥ Song this time: Breakeven_(Falling_to_Pieces)_-_The_Script ***** Separation ***** Chapter Summary It was not a decision made overnight, but Lily somehow knew that a life with James Potter was not the future she wanted. Chapter Notes I've got a nice long chapter for you all! Happy Friday! There is a portion of this third chapter taken directly from the brilliant J. K. Rowling in her seventh book, Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows. See the end of the chapter for more notes “He’s more myself than I am. Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” -Charlotte Brontë [goodbye] Four_Months_Prior-_July_of_1979 Godric’s Hollow was a quaint little village, and just the place that Lily had long imagined herself settling down in. Elements of the place had reminded her much of Cokeworth and her childhood garden home. But this was someplace completely new, and a fresh start for both her and James Potter. By the end of her seventh-year at Hogwarts, Lily had known that she could not continue living in the cottage on the quiet lane that overlooked the shadow of the old mill, and the slum of Spinner’s End. Petunia had already left home, recently married to Vernon Dursley, leaving only their parents residing in their childhood abode. It was time to leave the nest, and she would do so with James. It wasn’t that she hated her hometown, it was that she sought her independence, that she was desperate for a life all her own, and one away from the memories associated with Cokeworth. Her late summer wedding had been the talk of the town, an event attended by many of both magical and muggle backgrounds. She had been a blushing bride, filled with excitement and nervousness. The wedding dress had been purchased from a local shop in town; ivory and strapless, with a lace bodice and mermaid fit. The lower portion was covered in elegant white petals, and the train was modest, trailing just slightly behind her. As Lily had sat at the vanity in her old childhood bedroom, just having completing the last details of her hair, her mother had gifted her with ‘something blue and borrowed,’ her personal set of silvery-blue pearls. James’ mother, Euphemia, had contributed ‘something old,’ a family heirloom of the Potter’s, her own grandmother’s handmade lace handkerchief; pinning it beneath her skirts. Mr. Evans had escorted his youngest daughter down the aisle, Mrs. Evans sniffling with emotion at the sight of her daughter being presented to the young man that waited for her. James Potter had looked exceptionally handsome, dressed in very expensive dress robes, his hair actually appearing combed and in order, the metallic frame of his glasses shining in the summer sunshine. He had beamed at his bride, astounded by her beauty as she moved towards him, and she had smiled with radiant happiness, tears welling up in her eyes as he took her hands in his. There had scarcely been a dry eye present at the ceremony, though Petunia and Vernon Dursley were a noted absence all together from the scene. The celebration had gone long into the evening, the garden lights glowing all around them and their guests as they held each other close and danced to song after song. It had been as though they were the only two people in the world that mattered. But even as she rested her head on the shoulder of her new husband, Lily couldn’t help but feel as though something or someone were missing from the festivities… She tried to subdue the feeling, locking it away in the back of her mind. The move had been a welcome change to the both of them, the small cottage on the outskirts of Godric’s Hollow had been what both seemingly wanted and needed. The location seemed right, both having been members of Godric Gryffindor’s House during their years at Hogwarts; they even became neighbors to the elderly scholar, Bathilda Bagshot. Lily had taken great joy in setting up their little home, and James began finding himself more and more immersed in work for the Order of the Phoenix. That first year had seemed perfect, almost a fairytale at times. Unfortunately, it didn’t last. Fleamont and Euphemia Potter had passed away shortly after Lily and James had celebrated their first anniversary. Old age had claimed them both in their sleep, a peaceful demise, though plunging their only child into overwhelming sorrow for some months. They had left him everything, providing a very comfortable life for James and Lily in the process. All the while, the strength of the Dark Lord, Voldemort, and his growing power, left the wizarding world reeling. It seemed daily that more and more muggles were being attacked, the Death Eaters seemingly becoming more and more emboldened by the power of their master. Around this time, Lily’s father passed away suddenly, and unexpectedly, from a heart attack; her mother succumbing from a broken heart only a few months after. The funeral had been a nightmare, with Petunia and Vernon Dursley attempting all that they could to bar Lily and James from attending. “She won’t even talk to me! She doesn’t understand how much I loved them too…” Lily had sobbed one evening a few months after the fiasco of a funeral, on the sofa in their living room. James had just stared at her, “I don’t know what you want me to say. You already know how I feel about your sister and her abominable husband.” “She’s just hurting- “ “Lily, she’s a bitch,” James had sighed, “She doesn’t care about you.” She had looked up at him then, the tears flowing down her cheeks, her mascara smudged, “That’s not true! James, you don’t even know her!” “I know enough,” he told her, “Forget about her! You have me.” Sometimes I wonder if it’s enough. “I miss them so much…” she had choked, the memory of her parents flooding her with a new wave of emotion. “I can’t do this right now,” he said with frustration, “I have to meet Sirius and the other members of the Order. I’m already late.” Lily had closed her eyes, letting out a shuddering breath, and turned to stare into the fire burning in the hearth before her, unable to meet the eyes of her husband. James had walked over to her, leaning down to kiss her, but she turned her face away from him instead. Placing his hand on her jaw, he forcibly turned her head and pressed a kiss to her lips, withdrawing it with irritation, and then leaving her alone so he could Apparate from the front steps of their home. When she had heard the distinct ‘pop’ that told her that he had gone, she wiped her eyes with her hands and then reached for the latest edition of ‘The Daily Prophet.’ It was all the same- Death and fear. She knew that she should be proud of James and the others for their dedication to the Order; they were trying to make a stand against the supremacy of the Dark Lord and his followers, and that was something admirable to say the least. But she had never before felt more alone and alienated from both her magical peers, and even her husband. Flipping through the newspaper had done nothing to comfort her or her hurt feelings. James just didn’t understand what she was going through, he had no way to relate to the loss that she had felt from both her parents’ deaths and the disownment by her older sister. No, James had always been the golden child, the apple of his parents’ eyes. He had no idea what it felt like to know that your only family was disinclined to communicate with you solely because of being you. She had not sought the gift of magic, and as much as it had been a blessing in her life, it had also been something of a curse in its own way. She paused on a page of the paper, the animated photograph catching her eye. It showed officials from the Ministry of Magic disrupting a group of Death Eaters in an act of purported immoral behavior. They had not been guilty of any specific crime, though were suspected of having plotted something unpleasant in regards to a group of nearby muggles. She could not immediately identify anyone within the image, though one figure stood out to her for some reason. Pulling the newspaper closer, she inspected the figure in question, her eyes squinting at the page. All of the Death Eaters wore long black cloaks over their robes with their hoods pulled up over their heads, and intricate masks covering their faces in order to conceal their identities. But one, just one, seemed familiar. As he reached for his broomstick, his mask fell just slightly before he caught it and pushed it back into place. But it couldn’t be… Severus? The recognition sent a wave of queasiness into the pit of her stomach. She clenched the paper tightly in her quivering hands, her fingernails piercing the thin paper, her grip crumpling and tearing at the edges. Her eyes closed and she fought hard to steady her breath. She felt too warm and lightheaded, and at once raced to the privy and vomited into the toilet, holding her red hair back from the bowl. He actually did it. He became one of them… Lily had gone to bed before James returned home from his meeting. She had laid on her side facing the wall, lost in her thoughts, and too preoccupied to sleep. Every time she closed her eyes she saw the image from the paper, and after a while it transformed into memories of her youth and the years at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry that she spent with her best friend, her first friend, Severus Snape. She smiled at the thought of their closeness when she had first not understood the extent of her abilities- Back when she had been able to make the petals of wildflowers dance when there was no breeze. He had always been there for her, always willing to answer her questions regarding the magical world that she had no prior knowledge about. “How are things at your house?” “Fine.” “They’re not arguing anymore?” “Oh yes, they’re arguing… But it won’t be long and I’ll be gone.” “Doesn’t your dad like magic?” “He doesn’t like anything, much.” He had been an awkward boy, desperate for companionship and attention. Lily and Petunia had been surprised by him when he had revealed her to be a witch. Not all of their meetings had gone well by typical standards, but over time a friendship had blossomed between the two magical youths. Severus had never been very forthcoming when it came to his personal life, at least in regards to his mother and father. The little snippets that he had divulged however, were enough to reveal that Lily had a very different home life. She had never truly learned the extent of it, but she could speculate from the few comments that he made. She smiled at the memories that flooded her, brow furrowing as she remembered her own husband’s first interaction with her former best friend, and that of Sirius Black as well, when they had ventured to Hogwarts on the scarlet locomotive for the first-year of their studies. “You’d better be in Slytherin,” Severus had told her. “Slytherin?” James had questioned, “Who wants to be in Slytherin? I think I’d leave, wouldn’t you?” “My whole family have been in Slytherin,” Sirius had told him. “Blimey, and I thought you seemed all right!” “Maybe I’ll break the tradition. Where are you heading, if you’ve got the choice?” James had mocked that he held the sword of their House founder himself, “‘Gryffindor, where dwell the brave at heart!’ Like my dad.” Severus had made a snorting sound and rolled his eyes. “Got a problem with that?” James had spat. “No,” Severus had told him, though he sneered, “If you’d rather be brawny than brainy- “ “Where’re you hoping to go, seeing as you’re neither?” Sirius had interjected. They had laughed at him, and she had been enraged by their disparaging remarks. They didn’t even know him! And they never tried to either. They had mocked her as well when she had insisted that they leave the compartment and find another. James had even attempted to trip Severus as they had passed, and both he and Sirius had called after them with, “See ya, Snivellus!” Lily had been forced from her inner thoughts at that moment, James having just entered their bedroom. He moved quietly in the dimness, undressing and then getting into bed. He had rolled over onto his side, spooning close to her, his arms moving around her, his lips finding her neck and then the bareness of her shoulder. He moved his right hand up from her waist to the strap of the camisole on her shoulder, slipping it down and planting another kiss where the fabric had only just rested. “Not tonight, James.” He paused, “Why not? What’s the matter?” She brushed his hand away from her and replaced the strap to its prior position, “I just don’t feel like it.” He rolled over onto his back and stared up at the ceiling, “You never seem to feel like it anymore.” “You’re right,” she told him, sitting up and meeting his brown eyes in the darkness of the room, “Perhaps you should sleep on the couch.” “What’s gotten into you?” “Me? James, you just don’t get it.” “You’re right, Lily, I don’t!” he told her, sitting up and facing her, “All you do is mope around the house anymore.” “I’ve tried to tell you why, and all you do is make things worse! I don’t want to hear you complain about Tuney and say how she’s a ‘bitch' and ‘hates me' all the time!” “Well she does!” he shouted, “Maybe you should listen to me and move on! It would cause you a lot less hurt in the long run.” She shook her head in frustration and then threw back the blankets, climbing from their bed and making to leave the room. “Lily, wait!” he told her, catching her arm hard as she tried to move past him and out the door. Her eyes fell to his hand on her skin, raising them slowly to meet his stare with narrowed green eyes, “Let go of me, James Potter.” “Not until we talk about this.” Lily shook his hand violently from her, exiting the bedroom, and slamming the door behind her. James followed her, and the two stood staring as they entered the living room, coals still glowing crimson in the fireplace. For a long time, they stood there staring in quiet uneasiness at one another. “Why were you always so cruel to Severus Snape?” she asked finally. “What?” he asked her, his face contorting with confusion. “Why?” she repeated, “You were horrible to him!” “Lily, what are you talking about?” James continued, “He called you a Mudblood.” “Only because of your relentless bullying!” she shouted, tears burning in her eyes, “He was my best friend and all you and your friends ever did was make his life miserable.” James rubbed a hand across his brow and blinked a few times as he thought about how to proceed, “He was a Slytherin- I don’t know! Lily, this is ridiculous. You haven’t spoken to that Death Eater since we were sixteen. Sixteen! Merlin’s beard, it’s been four years! Why is it bothering you now?” She allowed the tears to fall, “Because I loved him and all you ever did was try and come between us! You acted like a complete asshole and never cared for anyone but yourself! It might as well have been your fault that our friendship ended… I’ve been such a fool.” He closed the space between them, his hands lightly resting atop her shoulders, “Lily, I love you. I married you because I love you. I always have. Where was Snivellus when your parents died? Where was Snivellus when the Dark Lord began his reign of terror? He’s with them now, you know? A Death Eater just as despicable as the rest. Snivellus never even apologized to you for calling you a Mudblood- “ “DON’T CALL HIM THAT!!!” she screamed, shoving his hands off of her, “And he did apologize! I just didn’t listen… I should have listened.” James threw up his hands in frustration, his neck reddening against the white of his T-shirt, “This is so fucking stupid! I don’t understand what’s come over you!” “You’re right, you don’t understand. You’ve never understood me. All you’ve ever wanted was me, and you’ve never even known me. And I was blind…” She shook her head sadly, the tears continuing to fall from her eyes, “I just wanted to hurt him, to try and persuade him in a stupid childish way into leaving his obsession with the Dark Arts behind. I threw away my oldest friend and married you… I made myself believe that if I tried hard enough that I could convince myself that I actually loved you and that being with you was what I wanted. I can’t pretend anymore.” He lowered himself onto the sofa and bowed his head, his hands running back and forth through his dark and messy hair, unable to meet her eyes, “So this is how you really feel?” She choked on the lump of emotion at the back of her throat, “I’m sorry, James.” He met her eyes slowly, tears shining in his own, “You’d throw everything away that we’ve built, everything that we’ve promised each other because of some late night revelation? Lily, please… Please listen to what you’re saying! It’s not safe out there, the Dark Lord’s disciples are everywhere.” Shaking her head sadly, “I can’t. I just can’t do this anymore.” Lily had left James alone in the living room, returning to their bed for the night. Neither slept from the words that were spoken between them, and the next morning they found themselves met with continued awkwardness and arguing. There would be no convincing her, she had made up her mind. “Where will you go?” James had asked her as she packed up her things. “Don’t worry about it.” He scoffed, “We’re still married, and I still love you- “ “I don’t want to hear it.” He licked his lips, watching her in silence for a moment, the jealousy finally boiling out of him, “You’re going to try and find him, aren’t you? You’re going to try and seek out that slimy traitor? Lily, think about this! Snivellus will kill you! He’s dedicated himself to You-Know-Who and the purging of muggles! Rumor from the Order is that it won’t be long until they start targeting Muggle-borns!” “James, I told you to stop referring to him by that name,” Lily sighed, “And I know what the Order says; I’m a member too, remember? And I’m going to the Longbottom’s. Alice is one of my dearest friends and she and Frank have said that I can stay for as long as I need.” “So that’s it?” “I don’t know what you want me to say,” she told him, “I’m done.” “What am I supposed to tell people?!” “That we’re divorced,” she stated flatly, “Now give me your hand so we can perform the enchantment.” “No.” She rolled her eyes, removing her wedding ring from her left hand and held it out to him. He took it from her, examining the object for a long while, sighing heavily, and then extending his hand to her as she had instructed. It was quick and it was done. Without further words and fighting, Lily took hold of her suitcase and headed out of the door, and out of the cottage in Godric’s Hollow. James had wished that he could fight the urge to watch her leave him and everything that they shared behind, but as the front door opened, he found himself drawn to her. He watched in silence as she stepped out of the door and seemingly out of his life. It would be a few months before she found the courage to return to Cokeworth and attempt a reunion with Severus Snape- That was if he still called the house on Spinner’s End home. =============================================================================== Lily had awakened from her light drowsing, and turned her head from the softness of its place on the pillow to see Severus standing in the doorway of the bedroom of the house on Spinner’s End. He seemed lost in his thoughts, and was standing naked as the day he was born. She had smiled, blushing slightly at his boldness, her eyes moving slowly over his form. The years had aged him some, just as they had her. His hair was much the same, still shoulder-length and shiny black. He hadn’t shaved in a few days; his cheeks rough with dark stubble. His body was still lean, though it had become noticeably more muscled, the strength in his arms evident from his embrace the evening before. Across his chest there was a light dusting of the same dark hair, a thin trail leading lower and past his stomach. Dark hair covered his legs, and she blushed a little deeper trying to avoid a direct stare at his manhood. “Sev…?” He had stared at her with surprise, moving to sit at the edge of the bed with his back to her. She could tell that he was deep in his own thoughts, and she couldn’t blame him for that. “Come back to bed,” she had told him, eventually rolling over to his side of the bed. Lily had held him from behind for a moment, pressing her body against his, relishing in the feel of him and his skin against hers. She planted a soft kiss upon his neck, slowly moving around the side of him, and onto her feet. She had shifted to the place between his legs, resting her hands lightly upon his shoulders. After a moment of hesitation, she had slid them slowly up his neck and to his face, compelling him to meet her eyes with his own. “Is something the matter, my love?” He had continued to stare at her, probably seeking to hide his thoughts from her, though she once again caught a glimpse of the uneasy and insecure presence that was reminiscent of the boy she had met when they were only nine years old. Eventually he shook his head in a silent answer to her question, “No.” “You’re cold,” she had told him, lightly caressing his skin with gentle touches from her hands and fingertips, “Come back to bed, let me help warm you back up… I don’t want you to catch cold.” His kiss to the center of her chest had filled her with a sudden warmth, desire blooming within her as he moved his arms around her and nodded after a short while. She had smiled, genuinely happy for the first time in what seemed like ages, leading him back into the brass bed by the hand. She didn’t want to stop touching him and holding him, or having him do the same for her. She felt as though she could stay with him forever, his eyes staring into hers with adoration and bliss, the likes of which she remembered from their childhood and time at school. And then he had called her ‘Lily Potter.’ Shortly after he had kissed her, promising to never call her by her former married name again, Lily’s eyes had once again been caught by the presence of the Dark Mark upon her lover’s left arm as he moved his fingers lazily through her auburn curls. “Have you ever actually seen him?” “Who?” “The Dark Lord.” Severus frowned, retracting his hand from her hair and returning it to his side. When it became clear that she was waiting and intent on an answer, he sighed, “Lily, my life’s changed a lot since we last crossed paths.” “As has mine,” she shrugged, “I never said that I judged you for it… I’m just rather curious.” He paused for a long moment, eventually speaking his answer to the ceiling of the room, “Yes.” “What does he look like?” He shot her a glance of suspicion, his brow creased, and then returned his eyes to the ceiling once more, “How am I to know that you’re not a spy? You have me in a rather prone state, and you have to admit it’s a little peculiar you showing up on my doorstep after so many years and then asking such pointed questions.” She rolled over on top of him, her body pressed against his, elbow lightly pressed to his chest, her head resting against the palm of her right hand, “Fine, I’ll tell you something in exchange, deal?” He narrowed his eyes at her, his hands moving lightly around her, fingers interlacing at the small of her back. “First, I’m Muggle-born, which I’ve heard by the rumors are the latest targets of You-Know-Who,” she began, and he rolled his eyes at the obvious, “Also,” she continued, “My ex-husband and I are known members of the Order of the Phoenix.” “WHAT?!” he nearly shouted, sitting up and backing away from her slightly, his back pressed against the cool brass of the headboard, “Merlin’s beard, what the fuck?!” Lily pulled the sheet tighter around her, “I don’t care if you’re a Death Eater, Sev- I don’t! I know what’s inside of you… I’ve seen the good in you, and I know that there’s still good deep inside. I saw you in ‘The Daily Prophet’ and it led me to where I am now. I love you, and us being on opposite sides won’t change that.” “Lily…” “Do you love me?” “What-?” “It’s a simple question, Sev,” she pressed, “I’ll walk out of your life forever if that’s what you want, but I don’t want to. I want you. I want us to be together.” “I love you, Lily,” he stammered, “But being together is not going to be so easy! You’re right, I mean… It’s not like I can hide the mark from you, and you’ve seen it. But everything is far more complicated than you make it out to be. I dedicated my life to the Dark Lord after everything transpired between us the first time… You don’t know the things that I’ve done, the things that I’ve turned a blind eye to, or helped orchestrate myself. I’m not just a lowly initiate when it comes to all of this…” he shook his head and sighed, “We’re both in very dangerous waters.” “The Order of the Phoenix would accept you if you switched sides.” “It’s not so easy!” he exclaimed, "Lily, he'd kill me. They’d probably kill me right now if they saw that I have you here with me… In my bed.” She blushed, “Will you promise me something?” He nodded. “You’ll at least think about it?” He diverted his eyes from her for a moment and then locked them with her green ones and nodded pointedly. Though he didn’t say it, she could tell that he was nervous that he had already divulged too much to her in the short span that they had been reunited. “Now, would he come here right now if you pressed the mark?” Lily questioned, a sly smile upon her lips. Severus looked at her incredulously, “I wouldn’t want to find out.” Lily crawled closer to him, the sheet coming loose as she moved forward, and up between his legs, until her mouth was mere inches from his lips, bracing herself on the palms of her hands, “What if I touched it?” His chest heaved with quickened breath, his pupils dilating with lust, “It’s only activated when we, who have been marked, touch the brand with the tip of our wand.” She pressed a light kiss to his lips, and then sat back up, rotating his left arm so that she could clearly see the symbol etched in black ink into his flesh. She met his eyes, and then lowered to the tattoo and kissed it with the most tender of caresses. It was a gesture that she hoped he would not mistake for her intent and true feelings. She would not betray him, and she prayed that he would not betray her either. Severus groaned at the attentions she had bestowed on such a location, on his emblem of the dedication that he had vowed to uphold when joining the ranks of the Dark Lord. What was she doing to him? In just one night everything had seemingly changed. In response, he caught her by the shoulders as she met his eyes once more, and he pressed his lips to hers with a hard kiss, his strong arms encircling her and tipping her back into the jumble of sheets as his passions finally overcame him. Chapter End Notes Comments and kudos are gold for the writer! Song for this chapter: We_Are_Broken_-_Paramore ***** Tête-à-Tête ***** Chapter Summary Reunited and then forced to say "goodbye" all too soon... Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “Yeah, I’ve got a ticket to the moon- But I’d rather see the sunrise, in your eyes.” -Jeff Lynne [tea] It had been just before dusk when the figure emerged from the back door of the rundown house on Spinner’s End. Lily had pulled the black cloak tightly about her, bracing herself against the bitter chill of the winter wind. Behind her, and past the falling-down fence of the house, the canal churned in a violent whirlpool of brown runoff; the water level heightened, rising dangerously up the sides of the bank. As she briefly glanced back up at the window of the residence, she thought for only a moment that she might have imagined a face looking out at her. Severus. Or had it only been a trick of the mind? Was hope playing some cruel trick upon her now that she had finally opened her heart? The hood of the cloak shielded her face from view, disguising her identity to any passerby. She had waited as long as possible- Partially from necessity when it came to nightfall, and partly from a real effort to leave her lover’s side. She had put it off long enough; possibly too long. Severus had been certain that no one was watching though, and Lily had agreed when it came time for her departure. The back steps of the deck had been mostly rotted, the boards softened from the dreary weather, and years of neglect. She had ventured down them alone, and to the churn of mud and weeds that made up the forgotten garden. She glanced around herself quickly, tightly squeezing her concealed wand beneath the protective cloak. Lily breathed deeply, closing her eyes to the scene surrounding her. An image slowly formed in her mind’s eye, whitewashed row houses, a quiet street in London. Identical doors of richly stained finish, antique hardware, and pretty little gardens protected by matching wrought-iron gates. Number 713. She smiled slightly, and then heard the distinctive ‘pop’ as she Aparated from Cokeworth, leaving Spinner’s End and Severus Snape behind. Everything went black at once, and Lily instantly felt as though she was being pressed very hard from all directions. The feelings associated with Apparating had become increasingly dulled over the years, practice making her comfortable with the popular magical form of transportation. She had never spliced herself, though she knew plenty of individuals who had. When she had stopped feeling the sensation of speeding through time and space itself, she opened her eyes. She stood on the sidewalk staring up at the building she had only just envisioned in her mind, the number 713 posted in large bronze digits to the left of the door. Streetlights flickered on around her, and she slipped through the gate and up the steps as if it had been all the sign needed. With her free hand, Lily reached into a pocket that she often kept her wand in whilst traveling, and extracted an antique bronze key which she placed into the lock of the door. She turned it firmly, the ‘click’ sounding remarkably loud in the quiet of the lane. She turned the doorknob and slipped into the residence, taking the key with her. Once inside she quickly barred, bolted, and latched the door by hand; exchanging the key for her wand, she then added a few incantations, quietly whispered, for added security. The entry of the house was modest, with a staircase leading upwards against one wall, and an archway leading into the kitchen and main living space. Lily hung her cloak on the rack beside the door, noting the other identical cloak already in place. She smoothed her clothes and then made for the staircase, willing a bath and change of attire. About halfway up the expanse, footsteps could be heard audibly, giving her momentary pause. “Lily, is that you?” a woman questioned, stepping into the foyer, looking about and then finding the young woman upon the stairs. “Alice!” Lily beamed, “Yes, I’m back!” The two women appeared to be of very similar age, with Alice standing around the same height, with a slender and yet athletic build. She had short mousy brown hair and pretty brown eyes. She wore deep blue robes, her wand instinctively in hand, having heard someone enter the house unannounced. “I’ll want to hear all about it!” she smiled, “Shall I put on the kettle for a spot of tea?” “Please,” Lily nodded, “I’m chilled enough as it is. I won’t be long; I just want to freshen up a bit first.” “Take your time.” The heat of the water instantly soothed Lily’s aching muscles and relaxed her shoulders and neck. She washed her long red hair and soaked amongst the bubbles and lavender oils until thoroughly clean and relaxed. She then rose, water running in trails from her naked form, and wrapped herself in a towel. After drying her hair and changing into comfortable black robes, she made her way back down the staircase and into the living space of the house, finding Alice already seated in front of a crackling fire with two piping hot cups of tea. Lily sat at the opposite end of the couch from her friend, crossing her legs casually beneath her, and pulling the cup of tea into her lap. “Frank’s working late; he won’t be home for some time,” Alice stated, taking a sip from her cup. “Is there no meeting tonight?” Alice shrugged, “Not that I’m aware of. But Lily, where did you go off to? Where have you been?” Lily took a sip of her tea, struggling to conceal her smile, “Cokeworth.” “Your hometown? But why? There isn’t any family there-?” “No,” she answered, “But there was someone that I had to see.” Alice studied her friend with a mixture of curiosity and wariness, “Who?” “You must promise me not to tell.” “Lily…” “Promise me, Alice.” The mousy-haired woman sighed, she fidgeted with the tea bag still steeping within her cup, and then nodded. “I went to find Severus.” “Severus? Severus Snape?” Lily nodded; the look that her friend wore was one of mixed anxiety and dread. A few moments of silence passed between the pair, neither willing themselves to speak first. The secret just revealed sat awkwardly between them, both weighing the severity of Lily’s recent actions. “He’s a Death Eater, Lily,” Alice finally spoke, setting her tea cup down upon the coffee table and turning to her friend, “We can only guess as to the level of his involvement with You-Know-Who… Why would you go to seek him out? What possessed you to do something so dangerous?! You could have been killed!” “Sev would never hurt me,” she said with conviction, “Alice, I know what you’re thinking, but believe me, you don’t understand the extent of it.” “The Order would have a fit,” Alice sighed, shaking her head incredulously, “You didn’t tell him you were a member…” she trailed off, seeing the expression on the redhead’s face, her eyes filled with worry, “Oh, Lily! What’s come over you?!” “You don’t know him, Alice!” she exclaimed, “We’ve been friends for a very long time- “ “You haven’t spoken since Hogwarts!” Lily frowned, “You sound like James.” “I’m not trying to,” Alice pressed, diverting her gaze with discomfort, “I’m just concerned. I never really knew Severus, so I don’t claim to know the kind of man that he was or is, but I don’t want you getting hurt either… What happened? Did you find anything out?” “It wasn’t really that kind of a meeting,” she began, “It was more for my conscience and peace-of-mind… What’s happened between he and I over the years has ultimately led me to having sought that moment- I didn’t even know that he still lived there! It was really just a stroke of luck finding him. Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect when I showed up on his doorstep in the middle of the night. Alice, I didn’t even know what to say!” “And?” “And I cried,” she told her with a toss of her hands, “We yelled at each other and I sobbed for how I had treated him so many years prior. I told him how much of a mistake it had been that I married James… I know how much of a blunder it was now.” The expression that Alice wore was grim, though she remained silent, allowing her friend to continue in her recanting of the past day’s events. “You’re right, he’s a Death Eater,” Lily continued, “I saw the Dark Mark with my own eyes. But he’s still the same man I knew from school, still the same person I thought of as my ‘best friend’ at the end of the day. It was strange, but it was almost like we were able to somehow pick up right where we left off, as if there was no time lost. He forgave me, and I him.” “But he still works for the Dark Lord…?” Lily took a sip of her tea, “For the time being,” she admitted, “Though I wouldn’t be surprised if he considered switching sides.” “Lily, come on!” Alice exclaimed, throwing her hands up, “That’s like saying Frank would stop being an Auror tomorrow, and overnight decide to become a Wandmaker! Severus Snape made a vow to You-Know-Who if he wears the Dark Mark, and Death Eater’s don’t change sides… How can you be so sure that he's any different?” She studied the expression that briefly came over Lily’s face, her cheeks reddening ever so slightly in a faint blush as she continued sipping her tea. “You didn’t sleep with him-?" “Alice!” “Merlin’s beard, Lily!” Alice cried, “What were you thinking?!” “The same thing that I thought on the night when I told James that I couldn’t pretend to love him anymore,” she said slowly and quietly, eyes staring into the roaring fire, “I screwed up my whole life because I thought that I could push Sev into abandoning the Dark Arts and the likes of Avery and Mulciber… I had hoped that by appearing indifferent that I might persuade him into living a life not unlike that of you and Frank. But my childish actions pushed someone I cared about above all others into doing exactly the opposite of what I wished.” Lily paused, eyes meeting those of her friend at last, “Alice, I drove him down this path… I can’t just walk away from him again.” “Lily, you can’t blame yourself.” “I can,” she laughed, the sound haunting and full of sorrow, “I loved him and I abandoned him. I was no different than all the others who had forgotten him and turned him away over the years. Sev was a brilliant student with so much promise, and rather than being rewarded for his abilities, he was bullied by the likes of James and Sirius.” “But he didn’t want your help… He called you- “ “A Mudblood, I know. I’ve heard it from James, and now from you. I am well aware. But believe me when I say I haven’t forgotten that moment- And I understand that he can’t take it back. I know that what he said wasn’t remotely right! There are times when I feel like I’ve finally gotten over it, and suddenly the memory hits me again. I haven’t been able to truly shake the feeling of being lashed out at by someone I considered my closest friend in the world… But I can also understand that everyone makes mistakes, and everyone has a breaking point. The Marauders bullied Severus mercilessly, and he was bound to react eventually… Unfortunately, I caught the brunt of it. But I was not entirely innocent myself. I have only myself to blame when it came to my own pride at rejecting his apology, at ignoring his efforts to remain in my life.” Alice moved closer to her friend, taking Lily’s tea cup and setting it upon the coffee table beside her own. She then hugged her, remaining silent for a long while. Lily held onto her, tears silently spilling from her eyes. “Lily, I won’t tell anyone your secret. I just want you to be careful… I won’t even tell Frank.” “I love him, Alice,” Lily whispered, wiping her eyes. “Then I will hope with you that he somehow sees the light and recognizes the value of fighting alongside us, versus the evil, poisonous rhetoric spouted by You-Know-Who.” “James will never accept him.” “No, he won’t,” Alice laughed, “But others should see the benefit of his desertion if he defects as you suspect he may,” she paused, “I should also tell you; Frank has said that James hasn’t told anyone about your divorce… He merely claims you needed some time away from Godric's Hollow and desired my company, as well as the quickened pace of the city.” “I’m not surprised,” Lily muttered, “Oh well… How are you feeling?” “Better,” she smiled, “The morning sickness is still unbearable and keeping me out of the office- Which I can’t stand. Unfortunately, it only means longer hours for Frank, but he doesn't seem to mind, and dotes on me so… How did I ever get so lucky?” Lily’s eyes fell on the stomach of her dear friend, the signs of Alice's pregnancy still concealed due to the early stages of her condition. It had scarcely been a month since discovering that she and Frank would be having a baby. There had been fear and questioning by both in regards to the correct timing of such an event- Especially considering the continuing strength of the Dark Lord and his increasing numbers that seemed to grow with every day. But no time would be the perfect time, and both had embraced the idea of becoming parents with full hearts. The worst change to their situation was that pregnancy had not been easy for Alice, the side effects of severe morning sickness having been rather debilitating. The added addition of Lily beneath the Longbottom’s roof had been a welcome change, with Alice having been forced to take an extended leave of absence from her position as an Auror. “Is it strange that I can’t stop thinking about him?” Lily asked after finishing her cup of tea. “No,” Alice smiled, “Have you looked out at the moon tonight?” Lily gave a questioning look to her friend, eventually shaking her head, “No.” “Frank’s always told me that when I feel lonely I should go and look at the moon. He's always said to do that, because no matter the distance between us, he’ll be out there somewhere looking up at it too... And thinking about me.” It was late that evening when Frank Longbottom finally returned to his home from his office at the Ministry of Magic. By that time, Lily had retired to her own bedroom on the second floor, leaving the couple some much needed alone time to catch up, and privately revel in one-another’s company. She dressed in a white T-shirt and pair of cotton pajama shorts, brushing out her long auburn hair, and then washing her face with cool water from the basin situated atop the chest of drawers. She folded the blankets to her bed back, and just before climbing in paused. She stared at the unslept in sheets, and then slowly moved to the window across the room. Leaning her brow against the coolness of the glass of the windowpane, she glanced up and out over the shadowy trees lining the outside street. Perched high in the sky, surrounded by stars, was the moon. Chapter End Notes Song for this chapter: Ticket_To_The_Moon_-_Electric_Light_Orchestra ***** A Dark Meeting ***** Chapter Summary Severus is summoned. The plot thickens... Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “When you stare into the abyss, the abyss stares back at you.” -Friedrich Nietzsche [moon] He had hated watching her leave. As dusk had fallen all around them, Severus had found the aspect of being parted from Lily unbearable. She had to leave, that much they both understood. It seemed unfair though, finally finding one-another and then being forced apart with the rise of the moon. He had never imagined that she would once again walk into his life, let alone that she would reveal such profound feelings towards him. It had left him reeling, faced with far more questions than answers. He had been unable to resist her, unwilling to deny her or himself any longer. They had made love, and not just once. It had been nothing short of unyielding and intense, both of them clinging to the other and letting go of any past inhibitions. He had tried to seem unfazed by her departure, though inside it was leaving him breathless and full of anxiety. She had donned the black cloak and taken the back steps into the abandoned garden behind the house. He had snuck a glimpse through the window only once, certain that she did not see him watching her go. When he next peeked through the glass she was gone, the night closing in, the moon casting its lonely glow. Severus had planned on his routine and usual monotonous work to overpower the effect that Lily had had on him. Though her visit had been brief, her presence was not so easily forgotten, and Severus found himself seeing her virtually everywhere he looked. Even when he closed his eyes to attempt sleep, she greeted him from behind his eyelids, her green eyes staring with unmistakable desire and love. He felt like a lovesick fool. Somehow he had allowed her to consume him so completely, in so little time. But she was unlike anyone he had ever met. She had surprised him in so many ways upon their reunion… First her presence all together. Mostly her revelation about leaving James Potter because she had finally realized how much she had loved him all along. Him. He could hardly believe her words. If only it had been before all that had transpired, before he had sworn an oath to the Dark Lord. He had expected her to shy away from his Dark Mark, the symbol of his dedication and allegiance to the rebel cause. The brand was as imposing a tattoo, as it was severe in style. The skull with the coiling serpent was supposed to generate ominous feelings of fear and supremacy when it came to the Death Eaters. After all, their master was the Heir of Salazar Slytherin. But Lily had been curious about it. If she had felt disgust or dread at seeing it blazed upon the inside of his left forearm, she hadn’t shown it. No, she had done something Severus had thought impossible- She had actually kissed it. “They would kill me if they knew,” he had spoken aloud, shaking his head knowingly, “If only she hadn’t walked back into my life after all that’s transpired… After all that I’ve worked for, and all that I've done." He’d give it all up if it meant a life with her. But it wouldn’t be easy or simple. He didn’t even truly know what it was that he wanted. He felt as though his whole world had suddenly shifted, spiraling out of control. Lily had sworn that the Order of the Phoenix would protect him if he selected to defect- He had almost laughed. The Dark Lord would never allow it. Severus knew that he wouldn’t survive such a transgression. None who had ever sought an escape from the ranks of his rebel army had ever lived to see the dawn of a new day. There had been few who had ever tried. He would do it for Lily. He would give everything up for her. “You lovesick fool,” he sighed. The days passed without much consequence, with Severus returning to his normal meanderings about the rundown house on Spinner’s End; his nights filled with haunting dreams of a fair lady with almond-shaped green eyes and long auburn hair. He was almost certain that he had imagined the smell of her lingering presence upon his sheets. He had to see her again, there was no question. But how could he contact her without fear of discovery from either her allies in the Order, or his amongst the Death Eaters? As he found himself consumed in constructing some flawless plan for them to once again rendezvous at a specified location, he felt a searing warmth crawl across his skin. Pulling back the sleeve of his black robes, he gazed down at the serpentine etching upon his left arm, the black ink burning darker into his flesh with the summoning of their master. Rising from his seat in the dusty living room he fetched his mask from its secret place within a hollowed book. Donning it over his face, he pulled on his cloak, the hood concealing his hair and any uncovered skin from view. He clutched his wand firmly in his right hand, closing his eyes to the world around him. He envisioned the immense stone manor, intricate front gate of bended iron, luscious grounds, and lights illuminating every window from the manicured walkways below. A light wind blew cold from the north, stray leaves twisting and turning in a powerful gust. There was the distinctive ‘pop,’ and Severus found himself traveling in much the same way as Lily had when leaving Cokeworth behind. When he next opened his eyes, he found himself standing very much alone before the grand expanse of the Malfoy Manor; residence of his colleague in operations to the Dark Lord, Lucius Malfoy. Clenching his jaw, Severus moved slowly up the front steps and to the door, rapping upon it with the intricate chrome knocker bolted into its immaculate and unblemished surface. It took the shape of a snake, very like the sigil of Slytherin House, something not uncommon amongst the Pure-Blood elite of the magical world. It was only mere moments before the door opened, bright yellow light flooding the exterior steps and the Death Eater standing alone. A house elf dressed in shabby rags had been sent forth to greet the expected guest, stepping aside with a flinch as Severus entered the space. The interior of the Malfoy Manor never achieved anything less than looks of wonder and awe. There was no denying the wealth of such a long-lined family, and the Malfoy’s enjoyed flaunting their possessions and prosperity at every turn. There was nothing that ever looked amiss or unworthy of such placement in such a grand house. Furnishings and tapestries were nothing short of intricately carved and detailed, plush and luxurious. Chrome snakes glittered throughout the expanse, smoothly integrated into much of the surrounding décor. Whether from chandeliers, candlesticks, portrait frames, or even paperweights, the Malfoy’s were proud of their long line of ancestry supporting one of the great founders at Hogwarts, Salazar Slytherin. “Very punctual, Severus,” the smooth and droning voice of Lucius Malfoy greeted. Severus had scarcely noticed that he had arrived within the study of his fellow Death Eater. The house elf quickly retreated out of sight, closing the door behind it to allow the pair of wizard’s their necessary privacy. Lucius Malfoy stood tall with an air of unmistaken entitlement. He was older than Severus, he had been a Prefect when the awkward boy with lanky black hair had first been sorted into Slytherin House so many years prior. He, himself, had long and straight slivery-blonde hair, was very clean-shaven, and wore impeccably tailored and expensive robes of solid onyx. His eyes were grey, his wand carved from dark elm, and concealed within a snake-headed walking stick; the serpent’s eyes a pair of glittering emeralds. “Where are the others?” “We are waiting on Bellatrix,” Lucius answered, his fingers interlaced and resting upon the chrome snake-head, “The Dark Lord has asked for only the three of us this evening.” His words did nothing outwardly for Severus, though he felt his stomach roll with unease at the thought of his tryst with Lily having been discovered so quickly. No, it had to be something else. Worrying would only leave a door for them to pry at- A trace of something unusual if they were to discern a sudden weakness seeping into his every bone. He had stood stoically, his mask remaining firmly in place, his eyes unwavering from Lucius’ stare as they awaited the arrival of their third. The ‘pop’ had been inaudible from the confines of the study, though the echoing and maniacal female laughter was heard long before Bellatrix joined them. “Off with you, filth!” she spat at the house elf, upon joining Lucius and Severus, the creature nearly tumbling over itself in an effort to escape from the frightening woman it had escorted, “Pardons my delay, gents. How fares my lovely Cissy?” Lucius breathed in slowly, “Your sister is well. She is resting in her rooms while we see to our task at hand… The child within her grows steadily.” “Her dream come true,” Bellatrix mocked, her voice heightening in pitch. She was shorter than either man, rounder of build, with frizzy dark brown hair. Her eyes were hooded and somewhat bulged in appearance, her robes were black like those worn by the others. She had come without her Death Eater mask, her wand held casually in hand. “Shall we?” Lucius inquired to his guests after an awkward moment of silence had fallen between them, “We don’t want to keep the Dark Lord waiting.” “Why’d you wear your mask, Snape?” Bellatrix asked, “Afraid we’d all die of fright when forced to look at your ugly face?” she cackled in that same laugh from earlier. “You’d do well to conduct yourself properly in my house, Bellatrix Lestrange,” Lucius reprimanded his sister-in-law through tightly gritted teeth. “Beg your pardons, Mister Malfoy,” she smiled sarcastically in her sing-song voice, bending in a mock curtsey and nodding her pretense to Severus. Severus and Lucius met each other’s annoyed glances, with the younger eventually nodding in agreement that they continue to their place of meeting with the Dark Lord. Without a further word, the silvery-blonde master of Malfoy Manor turned and led the way from his personal study to the main sitting room of the house. A fire roared within the intricate and grand fireplace, a single high-backed chair positioned before the glittering red and orange flames. When they were twenty feet from the chair, a ‘hiss’ was heard loudly, echoing throughout the space, a large green snake uncoiling from its place on the chair and slipping down onto the cool parquet flooring that filled the space. None of the three Death Eaters flinched or acknowledged the impressive beast, allowing it to explore the room as it best saw fit- They knew not to fear their master’s pet, lest it was set upon them. “My three lieutenants,” a high-pitched, though nearly whispered voice spoke. “Master,” they all stated in response. “We must make to proceed with the next step of my plan if we are expected to overrun the Ministry by this time next year. You three are my most trusted servants, and all of our plots and schemes rely upon how you proceed with this next phase.” “We are ready, Master,” Bellatrix spoke for all three, kneeling before the back of the chair. There was a rustling and then the hidden figure rose. Long black robes, and pale white skin. A remarkable contrast against the continuously licking flames of the fireplace. He was a tall and imposing figure, lean of build, with a perfectly round and bald head. Just one look was all that it took to strike fear amongst his supporters, but for his lieutenants, this was something they had become- Certainly not comfortable with, but at least used to. His eyes were blood red, his nose resembling that of a snake rather than a man- Two sharp black slits, and very thin lips that concealed sharply angled teeth. He did not immediately meet their eyes, his own attention focused upon the wand in his right hand. He studied the weight and feel, the familiar balance of the instrument. It was constructed of pale yew with a bone handle… Phoenix feather core. When he finally lifted his gaze to look searchingly from each member of his most trusted council in turn, his eyes still held that remotely dreamlike look. “I have three very important tasks that I wish to entrust each of you with,” Voldemort continued evenly, “First Lucius, you will utilize your position within the Ministry to continue in observation of the Minister of Magic and those closest to him. We need to know what they are planning, when they are most vulnerable, and who is of most importance amongst the ranks of their Aurors and Security." Lucius nodded a silent affirmation, and Voldermort proceeded, "Second, Bellatrix- “ She beamed widely in the attention bestowed from the powerful wizard before her, remaining bowed before him, whilst her other two companions stood up straight at full height. “For you I wish the continued training and surveillance amongst our recruits and your fellow Death Eaters. We must assure those who wish to join in our cause that they are dedicating themselves to the powerful future of our magical world. We must also focus upon abilities, as well as blood purification.” “Master?” she questioned, brow furrowing. “While we still aim for the cleansing of our race, I feel that we must also acknowledge the value in members amongst our numbers that excel at various forms of magic. Dark Arts, Potions, Transfiguration… Animagi would be a most valuable addition. Those who are not descended from pure magical bloodlines need not feel alienated when wishing to be a part of something so great as our movement!” he paused, a grotesque expression resembling a smirk coming over his lips, “Besides, once we have succeeded in overthrowing the farce that is our current Ministry of Magic, and the poor-excuse of an institution, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, we need only reveal our truest intentions… Servitude of those lesser members, a worthy reward for their efforts!” She beamed at him, nodding with excitement. “We will prepare a list of various individuals from our world which may fit into probable recruitment- So long as the damned Order of the Phoenix has not reached them first… You are to proceed accordingly, adding strength to our already impressive numbers, and guidance to those on upcoming missions and encounters. You may also enlist the assistance of your husband, Rodolphus.” “Yes, Master. Thank you, Master.” “And as for my most dedicated lieutenant,” the Dark Lord continued, stepping past the kneeling woman and before the still masked Death Eater, “Severus, I have an exceedingly important task that I can entrust only to you.” Lucius and Bellatrix frowned, exchanging mutual looks of irritation at the confidence of their master to the youngest member of the inner council. “Leave us,” Voldemort told them, “What I have to say can only be heard by Severus’ ears.” Lucius extended his hand to his sister-in-law, helping her to her feet. The two then made their way to the door of the chamber, lingering for a moment as they looked back in curiosity at their master and Severus Snape. “If I need say it again, I will take both of your ears,” Voldemort told them with a hiss very similar to that of his pet, still slithering throughout the room. When they had been left alone, the Dark Lord waved his wand in the direction of the door, a silent enchantment assuring that their conversation would remain private- Between only the two of them and the gargantuan snake. Severus only then removed the mask which covered his face, his features stoic and unmoving as he met the crimson stare of the powerful wizard before him, “I am honored for your confidence, master.” “You have proven yourself time and time again throughout the years… Lucius and Bellatrix are steadfast in their loyalty and convictions to our cause, though you are something of far more value. You are not unlike myself. Both of us are not so lucky as to share the bond of my other lieutenants; they are Pure- Bloods. You and I are not so filthy as to call ourselves Muggle-born, though we both find mutual hatred when it comes to the unworthiness of our fathers. Through your mother, blood no different in ancestry than that of the Malfoy’s or the Black’s, flows. The same goes for myself. My mother, who gave me life, also gave me the connection to my ancestor, the great Salazar Slytherin. It was through that connection that I first learned why our movement was of such importance. We must persevere! We must fight to keep the purity!” Severus nodded, the words not completely unheard before. “I knew that it was time to take a stand when I was denied the right- The honor of teaching at Hogwarts. Dumbledore knows not the things I have seen, the things I have learned from my travels and studies over the years. To understand Defense Against the Dark Arts, one must learn the Dark Arts! How could anyone expect us to defend ourselves competently without first truly understanding what it is that we face?! He’s a fool, a mad old fool. This war, this struggle, it’s all Dumbledore’s doing. He thinks he has the backbone to deny me? He will fail. He will fail, as so many others already have when trying to stand up and tell me otherwise. This is why I can trust only you, Severus.” Again, Severus did not speak. He merely continued staring, his features unchanged as he waited for Voldemort to proceed. The Dark Lord turned abruptly from his lieutenant, pacing the room whilst examining his wand once more, “You will leave your shabby existence in Cokeworth at the end of the next moon cycle. I have procured the necessary arrangements for you to travel abroad.” “And where am I going?” A sinister smile spread across the thin white lips, “You are to spy on Albus Dumbledore.” The words failed to fully penetrate the young man, and Severus found himself shifting from first his left foot, to his right, and then back. “It is a momentous task, yes,” Voldemort continued, “But one of absolute necessity. I am certain that it is he who leads the Order of the Phoenix. It was he who denied me the teaching post, so it must be Dumbledore who is trying to organize an opposition to stand against our most noble cause. I wish for you to find out for certain his rank within the Order, as well as anything else of importance that might arise. I would not give such a task to anyone else… You are to not return until you have learned where his loyalties truly lie, or anything else of immense value. I assure you that you will be rewarded greatly for this personal service to me.” Lily. He’ll be taking me away from Lily. As quickly as the thought entered his mind, he used practiced Occlumency to force everything blank. Those were the kinds of thoughts he couldn’t afford, and in a position such as this, face-to-face with arguably the most dangerous Dark Wizard of recent ages. Severus could not risk the skilled Legilimency that Voldemort was infamous for- One moment of relaxed thought could, and would, most certainly be his last. He would have a month before the Dark Lord expected him to proceed with his portion of the plan. A month to decide how he would proceed, and whether he could afford to reveal any of his secret mission to Lily. “Can I expect your loyalty?” Severus lowered himself before the immense evil that stood before him, lowered upon bended knee, head bent in respect, “Yes, Master.” Chapter End Notes Oh man, what will happen next?! AHHH!!! Song for this chapter- A personal favorite. ;) Zombie_-_The_Cranberries ***** The Black Owl ***** Chapter Summary Lily resumes her usual routine. But she finds it hard to keep her mind on task when her heart is so full. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “Nobody has ever measured, not even poets, how much the heart can hold” -Zelda Fitzgerald [letters] Mid_December_of_1979 Being parted from Severus had proved itself just as maddening for Lily. She immersed herself with work for the Order of the Phoenix, attended necessary meetings, and so on. For the most part she lazed about the Longbottom’s home in London with Alice, the two young women relishing in their friendship and familiarity. There had been numerous occasions where they would stay up late into the night whispering before the fire, the coals nearly snuffed out with the hour. On two separate instances, Frank walked into the living room to join them only to be greeted by an awkward silence and watchful eyes. “This is my house too!” he had exclaimed, not entirely upset by their closeness, “I think you might be surprised by my ability to keep secrets.” “Is that so?” Alice had teased, “Would you like to join our conversation?” “I might,” he smiled, both hands cradling a hot cup of tea, “It all depends on- “ “Boys,” Alice interrupted, “We’re talking about boys.” Frank Longbottom cleared his throat awkwardly, sipping his steaming tea, “I’m afraid I wouldn’t have much to add… I hope you are speaking in regards to Lily, and not yourself at least.” Alice blushed deeply, whilst Lily giggled. Frank straightened a little in his seat, a smug smile playing at the corners of his lips. It was much the same every evening in the comfortable home situated on a quiet street in London. With every day the weather seemed to grow cooler, and more leaves continued to fall. Winter was approaching, and with it a deep chill. The cold was not only in regards to the change of the seasons, no, it was with the uncomfortable lull in the Dark Lord’s usual activities. For some time, ‘The Daily Prophet’ seemed silent to his recent movements and those of his Death Eaters and chief lieutenants. Nobody had been seen preaching their dark supremacist views for over a week… It left the magical world treading on eggshells, feeling as though any moment might prove the sudden resurgence of their rebel cause. The Order of the Phoenix had sought to learn what had caused the unexpected silence, but their efforts had proven futile. No matter where they looked, who they spoke to, there was no sign of any of the purported characters that made up the ranks of You-Know-Who’s army. “Someone must know something!” James Potter had exclaimed one meeting, his fist slamming down hard against the wooden table the members were all seated around. “Very astute,” Lily had murmured, rolling her eyes. Her ex-husband had glared at her, opening his mouth to retort, but closing it promptly with the nudge of his best friend, Sirius Black. “They have all but vanished, and that is a very dangerous development,” Frank had stated, “Kingsley and I have searched high and low for any hint of their possible whereabouts and everything has come up empty.” James stared angrily at Lily, his look conveying to her that he suspected she had gone to seek Severus after their argument on the fateful night that their marriage had ended. “Mister Potter, if you have something to say, I suggest you say it,” she addressed him calmly. The awkwardness surrounding them had been thick enough to cut with a knife. Not a member present spoke, all eyes fixated upon the Potters. After some time had passed, James sighed, shaking his head. The meeting had not lasted much longer. Lily had rose from her seat wordlessly, gathering up her notepad and a few other items into the bag she wore over her left shoulder. She had walked right past James, despite his opened mouth in a move to converse her in some mundane conversation. She caught up to Frank, and the pair prepared to Aparate together back to the house and Alice. Though often unable to attend, Alice was determined to hear every detail of the meetings that her husband and best friend frequented. Before they had been able to vanish from the meeting space, a hand had caught Lily’s arm right above the left elbow. She whirled around and found herself face-to-face with Sirius Black. He had always been handsome, suave in his own way, with wavy jet-black hair and a well-kept goatee. “May I have a word?” he asked her, “It’ll only take a short moment of your time, I promise.” Lily exchanged a look with Frank, and he nodded that he would wait for her. Sirius offered his arm, and Lily took it. He then led her away from the bustle surrounding the other members of the Order, and into a quiet alcove. “James is a wreck.” “And that’s my problem, how?” “Lily, please…” Sirius sighed, “I don’t know what’s going on between the two of you, but I’ve never seen him like this before. He’s not himself. I’m certain he’ll make a fool of himself before too long as well. You have to talk to him. You have to go home.” “With all due respect, you don’t have a fucking clue,” Lily told him, “Sirius, I don’t have to do anything. James has to grow up and start realizing that people change. Feelings change.” “You know James though,” he continued with a grim smile, “I don’t doubt he did something foolish. He can be a downright bastard when he wants too, and I know that. But he also realizes that he fucked up… Whatever it is he did. Just think about it, ok? I know you don’t have to do anything that you don’t want to, but think. Do you really want to spend forever living in the Longbottom’s guest room? James would have you come home. He loves you.” “Ok,” Lily told him, “I’ll weigh my options.” In your dreams James Potter, in your dreams. Sirius had nodded with politeness, content with her answer, though Lily knew that he would certainly understand that something was far more amiss than previous due to her responses. He had led her back to Frank, graciously bowing his farewell to them before returning to James’ side. “What was that all about?” Frank questioned through gritted teeth. “I’ll tell you when we get back to Alice.” =============================================================================== “Sending his friends to weasel information out of you, is he?! What an imbecile!” Alice had cried at hearing the details of the conversation between Lily and Sirius. “It’s like I’ve told the two of you,” Frank added, “I don’t believe James has shared any of the actual details of your divorce with anyone… He might be hoping that it’s just a rough patch.” “It’s a bit beyond just a ‘rough patch,’” Lily sighed, “Why can’t he just stop all of this juvenile perseverance? It’s not like it’s going to work!” “Have you told him?” “I divorced him!” “Listen,” Alice stated, her husband and best friend turning to look at her, “We all know how James is… It’s going to take some time. And we can’t blame him for hoping that he somehow might be able to change your mind. Yes, Lily! You’re both stubborn, and you can’t deny that. It doesn’t matter that you’ve moved on- Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy for you! But you can’t just expect James to forget all about you overnight. It would be easy if he did, but you can’t deny that his actions are not entirely shocking.” She frowned. “And you did make a pointed jab at him tonight…” Frank added. Lily narrowed her eyes at the lone male presence, Alice’s attention snapped to the words of her husband, “How so?” “She mocked him at the table and then called him out after I had attempted to divert the conversation back to actual operations regarding the Order of the Phoenix.” “I didn’t mock him!” “Lily, you know you did,” Frank smiled, kindly. Lily opened her mouth to respond, but the sound of a beak against the nearby window drew the attention of all three wizards. Each was on their feet with wand drawn in the direction of the sound, Frank taking the lead as he slowly shifted the curtain back. A black owl sat perched on the sill, its yellow eyes glowing in the darkness. Looking down at the ledge it stood perched upon, he found a letter attached to its leg. Frank opened the window and removed the parcel, the owl flying silently away, engulfed in the darkness. “What is it?” Alice asked, brow furrowed, “It’s a strange hour to receive mail…” “It’s for Lily,” he said slowly, eyes meeting that of their guest, his arm outstretched, the envelope extended in her direction. Lily could feel Alice’s eyes staring holes into her as she took the letter, turning it over in her hands, and examining the exterior with careful watchfulness. “Well? Is there anything on it?” “No,” she said softly, “It’s blank except for just my first name on the front.” “Do you recognize the handwriting?” Frank pressed, standing at her shoulder. Lily shook her head, “No.” “Look at the three of us fearing over a silly envelope!” Alice laughed, “We have no reason to believe the Death Eaters know where we live, let alone if they even suspect us as being members of the Order!” “One can never be too careful, dear.” Lily remained silent, fixated on the cream colored envelope. With a deep breath she ran her fingernail beneath the seal on the back. She half expected something to happen, but nothing did. She exhaled sharply, eyes still expressing confusion as she pulled the parchment free. Where green the land The trees do grow. Our summers once planned Have turned to snow. A sea of dew- Flowers and the buzzing bee. I need you… Come away with me. “Well, Lily?” Alice probed, “What is it? What does it say?” Lily could feel her fingers trembling as she read over the poem a third, and then fourth time. She tried with all of her might to refrain from smiling like a teenager, words escaping her altogether. “I’m going to go get ready for bed,” Frank stated, sensing the need for the two women to be alone, the danger momentarily kept at bay, and retreated from the room. “I won’t be long,” Alice called after him, rising to her feet and moving beside Lily to peer at the curious parchment. “Lily!” she exclaimed with delight after her husband was out of earshot, “Oh, Lily! Do you think it’s from him?!” She bit her lower lip, catching the excited gaze of her friend and then giggled like a love-struck schoolgirl. She nodded, and the pair threw their arms around each other in an embrace of mutual happiness. “A poet…” Alice smiled, “Who would’ve thought a Death Eater would have such a way with words! You must have really made a memorable impression.” “Alice!” “Are you going to meet him?” “I think I must.” “He didn’t tell you where though-? Is it written on the back perhaps?” Lily placed the parchment back into the envelope without searching its reverse, “There’s no need, he said it all in the poem.” Before Alice had a chance to ask for more details, there was a thunderous knocking upon the front door. Both women jumped, turning in the direction of the noise, wands pulled defensively. Frank came bounding down the stairs, skipping every third one, wearing his plaid pajama pants and a white T-shirt. His wand was also pulled as he went to the door in cool inquiry. “Frank?” Alice questioned, taking a nervous step towards her husband. “Merlin’s beard…” he muttered, unlatching the door and disappearing for a short moment before shoving two other wizards inside. “… The racket you’re making!” Frank shouted, “Anyone could have heard you out there! You’d put my wife and unborn child at risk?!” “Frank, I tried to pull him away, I really did…” Sirius attempted to explain, “I’m sorry! We’re sorry, isn’t that right, James?” Lily and Alice lowered their wands, placing them once more in the confines of their robes as they watched from the doorway opposite the commotion. Sirius looked genuinely apologetic, and James looked inebriated. It was only moments before he saw her watching them and made to reach her. “Lily! My Lily… Please… Please come back! Lily, Lily… I love you, Lily. I’m sorry.” Sirius reached a hand out to pull his best friend back, but James shook it off in apparent disgust, nearly toppling over from the quickness of motion, “Get off of me, Padfoot!” “Mate, we need to go.” “She’ll listen to me this time- Just you wait and see…” “No, you need to listen to me!” Lily shouted, stepping into the foyer of the house and past Frank to the drunken mess that resembled her ex-husband, “Get out, James. You’re drunk and acting a complete mess.” “Lily, Lily…” “Stop it, James,” she sighed, “Go with Sirius.” “What’s that-?” he questioned, and with horror, Lily realized that she was still holding the envelope that had only just been delivered, in her hand. The change was quick, but the once apologetic drunk transformed at once with all- consuming jealousy. “Did you find him then?” he spat, “Did you let him fuck you?” “That’s quite enough-!” Frank interjected, stepping between the pair, Sirius taking hold of James by the back of his robes in an attempt to restrain him. “You refuse to fuck me for months, and then just give in the minute someone new asks you to spread your legs for him?!” The sound of Lily’s open palm striking James’ left cheek echoed through the silence that filled the front room of the Longbottom’s house. She was shaking with rage, her hand tingling from the impact it had just made against the face of a man she had once thought she might learn to love. Alice stood wide-eyed, and Frank moved a protective arm in front of Lily as he stepped forward and between the pair. Sirius retained his hold on James, his eyes equally wide from the shock of Lily’s slap. “Bitch… Nothing but a bitch.” “Get him out of here, Sirius, before I’m forced to do it,” Frank seethed, his wand mere inches from James Potter’s face. As soon as the unannounced pair had appeared, the door shut once more. Lily was alone again with Frank and Alice Longbottom, safe in their home on the quiet lane. She would not let him steal her happiness... No matter how he might try. Frank placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, his look conveying nothing short of reassurance that she was safe. He then climbed the stairs again, once more leaving his wife and Lily to themselves. The look shared between Alice and Lily was one of many things, though Lily thought she could detect pity when it came to James' loathsome state. Perhaps Alice had been right... It would most certainly take some time. Chapter End Notes Comments and kudos to let me know you like what I'm writing!   The next chapter will be posted tomorrow and I can hardly wait! Song of choice:   Wait_For_Me_-_King_of_Leon ***** Forest of Dean ***** Chapter Summary Led by a poem; two lovers destined to meet again... Nothing could ever keep them apart. ♡ Chapter Notes A good long chapter. There is a quotation from this seventh chapter taken directly from the brilliant William Shakespeare in his famous play, A Midsummer Night's Dream. See the end of the chapter for more notes “I desire the things that will destroy me in the end.” -Sylvia Plath [embrace] Late_December_1979 The hills rolled luscious and green as far as the eye could see. The many ancient trees stood sentry over the small and well-concealed camp. A lone tent sat situated nearby to a slowly trickling brook, shaded in the morning and evening, though alight from the warmth of the sun in the afternoon. The solitary traveler had made use of every spell known to them in an attempt to keep the location a secret, their presence unknown to anyone who might stumble off the beaten path. Unsuspecting travelers would find nothing more than an abandoned stretch of land, no sign of the sole inhabitant to the place, or trace of their belongings. The concealment charms took care of hiding them from all prying eyes and unwanted guests. Severus had come to the not unfamiliar location, seeking time alone and away from the Death Eaters and house on Spinner’s End. He had sought the Forest of Dean as a means to clear his head and figure out how to proceed with both Voldemort’s instructions and a possible future with Lily. He had scarcely been able to give his assignment any of its deserved precedence- His mind fully occupied with Lily from dawn until dusk. He had folded against his better judgment, cursing himself silently as he had composed the poem late one afternoon, and sent his message to her under the cover of darkness. But would she come? He positively ached for her. You lovesick fool. The morning after he had sent the black owl on its errand, he had felt a growing sense of dread fill him from head to toe. He had been cryptic in the meaning of his note… Part of him became convinced that she would have no idea as to the identity of the sender, or of where he wished her to venture. How could she even find the location? It was stupid of him to have contacted her in the first place, and now he felt even more lost for his hopefulness of her ever finding him. She would not answer him; she would have no way to know of his location, nor would she be so prone to her emotions in writing him a reply. No, Lily was always the wise one; she would remain silent. And so he had waited, alone with his thoughts, and longing for her company and affections. Would she want him again? He stirred at the memory of her heated kisses and pointed desire, damning himself for his weakness. She wouldn’t come. It was far too dangerous, and he was a damned fool for suggesting as much, for actually thinking that she might desire him still… It was nothing- It had meant nothing. He would have to convince himself that it was all just a surge of two lonely people's emotions that had transpired between them. The ‘pop’ that sounded through the stillness of the forest had him spinning on his heel, wand extended in anticipation for possible confrontation. He knew himself to be concealed to passerby, but that did nothing for the adrenaline that pounded through his veins. He had discarded his robes for a muted button- up flannel shirt, grey trousers fastened with a black leather belt, and muddied boots upon his feet. He had grown out a light beard since having seen Lily last, the facial hair helping to disguise him for when he would set out on Voldemort’s dark task. There was a chill to the air, the feel that snow would fall any day. There was scarcely a week left to December… He didn’t have much time until the Dark Lord would expect him to reach Hogsmeade and continue with his part of the plan. He shook away his thoughts, focusing again on the magical and unannounced presence near to his camp. He stepped to the edge of the protection field that he had in place and watched silently, waiting like a hunter for his prey. Through the shadows of the ancient evergreens, a lone figure emerged. It wore a long black cloak and black leather boots. He watched it, waiting for a glimpse or hint as to the traveler’s identity. A turn to the right hit him like a blow to the chest- Fair skin, entrancing emerald green eyes, and deep auburn curls. Lily. She had actually come. She looked like a spirit of the forest in her graceful movements, the embodiment of beauty and fearlessness. He stepped through the invisible barrier with quiet footsteps, his unspoken approach causing her to turn quickly with reply, her wand pointed, lips pursed. Soft pink lips. She lowered her wand slowly when she realized that his was not pointed at her, eyes softening with recognition of whom she faced. A smile spread across her lips and she moved in his direction with renewed urgency. Forgetting her self-control, she raced forward, the hood of her cloak flying back and away from her hair as she closed the distance between them. He took a few steps towards her, the spasm of a smile playing upon his lips as he felt the happiness slowly move upward through the whole of his body, and almost overwhelm him. She nearly leapt into his arms, her embrace filled with joy at being reunited with him once more. He backed up with her in his arms, through the magical barrier surrounding his little camp, one hand pressed to the small of her back, the fingertips of his other woven through her hair, holding her head gently to his chest. “How did you find me?” he heard himself asking her. “I knew it was the Forest of Dean,” she smiled, eyes meeting his, “Or at least I had suspected it might be. As for finding you, well, I merely closed my eyes and envisioned myself with you. How you might look, how you smell and feel…” “It looks like it worked.” She laughed, “I wish I could say that it was my first attempt… But yes, eventually.” His hand moved down from the silkiness of her hair, fingertips lightly tracing the curve of her cheek and the softness of her skin. His dark eyes searched hers, words evading him as he found himself lost in the green sea of her almond-shaped eyes. “I missed you,” she told him, the smile disappearing from her lips, head leaning into his touch, “I was afraid that you might have forgotten- “ He kissed away the rest of her words, the trace of uncertainty plaguing both her voice and her lovely features. She melted against him. “Never,” he told her with utmost seriousness, “You are always on my mind- You are always in my heart.” And as he spoke the last word he took her hand in his, and pressed it to his chest and the beating heart beneath. Lily had kissed him in response, her soft lips sending a searing want thorough every bit of Severus’ body. When she had parted from him she smiled once more, “Show me around your little camp… You’ve picked a lovely spot.” The tour was not a long one, given the simplicity of his exterior supplies, and then the obvious view of the surrounding terrain and details of the protective enchantments guarding the space. He pulled aside the flap of the tent, an unremarkable canvas structure, not unlike those utilized by muggles. The outer appearance was one of wear and tear, however, Lily’s breath was taken away when she crossed the threshold. Wizard camping certainly had its benefits in comparison to the mere human tradition of ‘roughing it.’ No, the inside of the tent while modest, was nothing short of a small cottage in decorum and appearance. There was a small kitchen, a bathroom, a wood burning stove, a bed, and small table with two chairs. It was quaint, though comfortable, and surprisingly tidy… Much more so than the house on Spinner’s End. “It’s nothing much,” he told her, “I rarely stay at the house in Cokeworth anymore… It’s rather a shock you caught me there when you sought me out. Usually I utilize this- “ and he motioned to the surrounding interior, “I know it isn’t much, but it’s comfortable, and allows me the ease of moving from place to place.” So I can stay one step ahead of the Ministry of Magic and the cumbersome Order of the Phoenix… “I like it.” “Really?” “Yes,” she nodded, taking in all of the surrounding space, “It’s really all that one needs, and it must be nice to travel wherever you want across the country with so much ease.” He nodded, and Lily unfastened her cloak, draping it over one arm as she stepped further into the tent. She wore acid washed grey skinny jeans and a green camisole beneath a cream colored cardigan. “I wasn’t certain you’d come,” he told her, his voice sounding oddly quiet as he stared at the floor, “I had hoped, but I wasn’t certain.” “You couldn’t keep me away if you tried.” “Why is that?” She smiled kindly, “I think you know, Severus.” The sound of her speaking his name sent a tingle of pleasure down his spine. It was much the same as it had been throughout his youth. He longed to make her happy, to prove himself worthy of her love. He felt like a lovesick fool again. But as much as he loathed the feelings of weakness whenever in her presence and the sensation of his strongly built walls, surrounding his long buried emotions, crumbling into nothingness… He relished in this second chance at happiness in a life that had been so full of hurt and darkness for so long. Their evening meal had been modest, with Lily offering to do the cleanup whilst Severus headed out to chop some kindling for their fire, and bring in a generous stack of wood to sustain the warmth of the tent through the evening. Though magically able to offer far more comforts than muggle camping, there was still no heating or cooling available when it came to temperature within the actual living space. With winter upon them, and the real possibility of snow, it was important that they be well-prepared for the length of the bitter cold evening. “Sev?” Lily had called from the threshold of the tent into the surrounding darkness, deep shadows spreading from the enormous trees surrounding them. She hugged her arms around herself and shivered against the blustery wind that tousled her red curls. A dark figure emerged from the blackness, and Lily whispered, “Lumos,” the tip of her wand emitting a bright and glowing white light. He had a heavy stack of wood in his arms, “Lily, you’ll catch the death of cold out here, go back inside.” She led the way as they reentered the tent, the chill of wind coming with them, as Severus dropped the wood into a pile beside the cast iron stove and made to return for a final armful, “I’ll be right back, you can start the fire if you’d like.” When Severus next returned to the tent, he found a fire crackling away, the interior already beginning to warm. It would be a miracle if they didn’t find snow on the forest floor in the morning with the icy chill in the air. “Is there a way that I can take a bath?” she asked him after he had secured the flap against the cold, and brushed off his hands, “I didn’t see a tub or shower.” He nodded and waved his wand, an antique-looking claw foot tub appearing out of thin air. He pointed his wand at it, and it slowly began filling with steaming water, “I can busy myself in the kitchen or wait in the privy if you wish the privacy to undress…” “No, it’s alright,” she smiled, a blush crawling up her cheeks. He stared at her for a long moment with surprise, and then nodded. He walked past her and into the small kitchen space to brew a pot of tea. Lily followed him with her eyes, rising from one of the little chairs at the table and moving to the foot of the bed. She unbuttoned and removed her cardigan and then pulled off her camisole. She unzipped her boots and slipped of her jeans, casting a look over her shoulder to Severus as she stood in just her bra and panties. He turned at that very moment as he made to reach a cabinet where cups were kept, his eyes meeting hers, arm remaining frozen in an outstretched motion. She smiled, blushing again, and then straightened, turning slightly from him as she unclasped her bra and dropped it with the rest of her clothing, slipping her underwear off shortly after. Severus blinked twice, unable to divert his stare, and silently cursing himself for his blatant lack of propriety. She had only just arrived and he was already ogling her like she was nothing but a piece of meat. Lily stepped into the tub, and he watched as the smoothness of her porcelain flesh slowly descended into the steaming water. First her calves, the backs of her knees, and thighs. He breathed sharply inward as he watched the curve of her backside slip beneath the water, the slenderness of her waist and her back next, and only the slightest fleeting, teasing, glimpse of the side of her left breast. He felt himself stifle a groan as he forced himself to look away and continue retrieving the cups from the cabinet. A relaxed sigh from the water made him close his eyes in response, fighting his growing urge to act with his cock rather than his mind. “Sev?” The sound of her voice saying his name brought about a fresh wave of memories; every one of them involving him fucking her at the house on Spinner’s End. His name had come so easily to her lips each of the times he had moved inside of her, passion building, until she had nearly screamed it in the throes of her ecstasy. He shook his head, trying desperately to remain level-headed, and turned in the direction of the tub, “Hmmm?” “Would you mind passing me my soap?” she smiled, her hair wet, the droplets standing out upon her fair skin, “I left it over there.” He licked his lips and nodded, watching as Lily turned her attention back to the calming and heated water surrounding her. He set down the cups on the counter, running his fingertips through his shoulder-length black hair in an effort to focus. You’re acting like a fucking moron. He took a deep breath and unbuttoned his flannel shirt, standing in a black T- shirt, feeling the need to cool off before he lost complete control. He dropped the shirt on the floor beside Lily’s little pile of clothing, and picked up the bar of soap she had gestured to, as well as a small bottle marked lavender oil. When he turned he found himself momentarily glued to the spot. Lily had her head resting against the white enamel coating of the tub, the nakedness of her body submerged beneath the still steaming water. She looked stunningly beautiful in her stripped state; no makeup, no perfume, no hair products… Just her. She opened her eyes and met his dark ones, “Thank you, Sev.” He nodded, setting the small bottle of oil beside the tub and retaining the bar of soap in hand. She looked questioningly at him, but he said nothing, merely kneeling beside her. He emptied a few drops of the oil into the water, instantly perfuming it, and then dipped his hands at the surface of the water. He worked a rich lather from the bar of soap, Lily’s eyes moving from his hands to his eyes in watchful silence. He nodded at her and she moved her wet hair over one shoulder, sitting up so that he might wash her back; he moved around her and began doing just that. “Where have you been since we last saw each other?” she asked after a few moments had passed. “Mostly Cokeworth,” he told her, “And a few other places.” “Oh?” she questioned, “I went back to London. I’m staying with friends; you see… They’ve been kind enough to put me up since I really have nowhere else to go. They’re good people, I think you’d like them very much.” Severus said nothing, merely continuing in his motions of massaging her tight muscles, and washing her skin. “James and I got into a little spat…” Severus stopped in his attentions at once, retracting his hands from her at the mention of his rival’s name. She looked over her shoulder at him, “Supposedly I provoked him,” she sighed, “Though he acted an absolute bastard in response.” “What did he do?” “He accused me of being a whore. I think the precise phrasing was, ‘You refuse to fuck me for months and then just give in the minute someone new asks you to spread your legs for him?’” Severus clenched his fist hard, the bar of soap popping out of it and making a small splash as it hit the water and disappeared below the surface. “He was immediately reprimanded- “ “Did you tell him about us?” he interrupted, eyes narrowed, “Does he know about me?” Lily swallowed, biting her lower lip, “The night I left him I had mentioned that I ruined my life because I was too blind to see that I cared for you. I didn’t tell him anything… I’ve scarcely seen him since I left Godric’s Hollow. It’s only at Order meetings that our paths ever cross, and even then I do my best to avoid him as much as possible.” Severus’ accusatory stare remained, “I didn’t tell him anything! He was drunk, Sev! Everyone present thought he was just raving in his usual jealous ways.” “Did he mention me by name?” “No,” Lily told him, her wet hand covering his own on the edge of the tub, “He only alluded to you so that I understood whom he referred to. There was no way that anyone else would know. And he doesn’t! He only suspects… I never agreed or disagreed with his accusation.” “I believe you,” he told her at long last, “I do not believe you would purposefully betray me… But we both must be careful. Even in being here, lost amongst the trees and forest, we put ourselves at risk from both sides.” She nodded, sadly, turning away from him, “We certainly haven’t made this easy.” “Aye,” he nodded, “But ‘the course of true love never did run smooth.’” Lily looked at him with surprise, “Shakespeare?” He shrugged, and resumed his washing of her skin, moving from her shoulders down her arms. “I couldn’t stop thinking about you… All I ever dreamed about was when I could be back in your arms again.” “That’s nice of you,” he smirked. She shot him a glare and splashed him playfully in response, eyes widening when she realized how completely she had soaked him, his hair sticking to his face, his T-shirt visibly wet. He raised an eyebrow at her, a small smile forming over his lips as he shook his head and rose to his feet. He pulled off his shirt, adding it to the pile of clothing on the floor, and then moved to unfasten his belt and the fly of his pants. “Scoot yourself over, it looks like I might as well clean myself up also.” She shifted in the bath, diverting her eyes as Severus climbed into the still warm tub, his knees sticking out of the water, the heels of his feet resting beneath the sudsy top, on either side of Lily’s waist. Her eyes searched his revealed form, much the same as she had remembered it. She felt herself blushing, unable to conceal its darkening shade of red when he met her eyes after wetting his hair. Reaching beneath the water she found the slick bar of soap. Tucking her legs beneath her, she lathered the bar and moved forward to work her sudsy palms over his shoulders and chest. His eyes closed to her touch, his head leaning back in utter contentment at her attentions. Lily washed his stomach, eyes falling to the place between his legs. She couldn’t make anything out due to the layer of soap film upon the water’s surface, though she found herself tingling with want, hot with desire. “Did you think about me?” she heard herself ask, voice sounding very small. He opened his eyes, hands finding her waist beneath the water, his voice was low, “Every day. Being parted from you was absolute torture.” She leaned forward and pressed a gentle kiss to his lips, “I love you.” The force of which he kissed her surprised even himself in its urgency. It was as though he were a drowning man seeking air, a dying man who craved life. He urged her lips open, her teeth lightly catching his lower lip in their mutual desire. He sighed, slipping his tongue into her mouth, arms encircling her as water could be heard audibly splashing from the confines of the tub that they shared. “And I you,” he told her, eyes meeting hers briefly before kissing her again, lips trailing down her jawline and then the smooth curve of her neck. She gasped, fingers moving through his slick hair, “Sev, I can’t wait any longer… I need you. I want you.” Leading the way, he stood, pulling her up with him as the water cascaded off of both their naked bodies, and into the claw footed tub they had only just been seated in. With a wave of the nearest wand, two towels flew to the pair, and they stepped onto the dampened floor and dried themselves, their hair remaining moist from the water. Severus tied his towel about his waist, moving to check on the fire and add an additional log, the interior of the tent a comfortable temperature against the chill of the outside world. When he turned back around he felt as though the air had been forced from his lungs. Lily reclined nude at the foot of the bed, her legs bent at the knee, pressed together, her hands bracing her form as she leaned just slightly back, her auburn hair a darker shade of red in its still damp state, her breasts hanging with perfection, nipples hardened to the exposed air. He heard himself groan, eyes searching over her hungrily, cock twitching beneath the confines of the towel. “Make love to me, Severus.” Words he had dreamed of hearing her speak for as long as he could remember. She sat up, hands moving slowly from her hips up the flatness of her stomach, each cradling a breast before lightly pinching a nipple, fingertips tracing around the inner curve of each breast before continuing up past her exposed clavicle, and interlacing at the nape of her neck. He exhaled, closing the distance between them and kneeling before her. She looked down at him, smiling lovingly, as he swept his hands from her ankles to the backs of both knees, pulling her so that her bottom was just past the edge of the mattress, forcing her to fall back onto her back as he parted her thighs, resting the back of each knee on a shoulder. She stared at him with those entrancing green eyes, slightly wide with surprise, a pinkness at each cheek from him exposing her so fully to himself. He forced his stare away from her face, looking down at her most private of places, moaning at the sight of her folds and opening. “Sev...? I- Oh!” Lily stammered, falling back against the blankets. He had cut off her questioning and insecurities with one swipe of his tongue. The sound of her reaction bringing about a sly little grin and a notable throb to his cock. He took a deep breath, filling his nose with the clean scent of her skin intermingled with the musky scent of her arousal. He pressed a kiss to the small bud of pleasure just above her opening, the light dusting of her auburn curls before him soft to the touch. She moaned loudly, arms splayed to either side, hands kneading at the blankets. With every little attention he made, she gasped again and again in a building, heightened pleasure. Then, suddenly, her thighs pressed inward as she rolled her hips upward for more pressure. He held her at bay, one hand resting high upon the inside of her thigh to grant him continued access to her dripping center. If the sounds she was making were any indication as to how he was performing in this desired task, he considered himself to be succeeding in pleasuring her greatly. He paused for a moment, his focus deterred to her squirming form upon the bed before him, her hands having moved from their place at gripping the blankets to her breasts, rolling the peak of her nipple between her thumb and forefinger with each hand. “Please don’t stop…” she panted, sounding almost feverish. How could he deny her when she asked so politely? He resumed his attentions, working at building her the rest of the way to her peak. He focused in upon the swollen flesh of the sensitive bud at her epicenter, sucking upon it lightly and pressing it with the tip of his tongue. It wasn’t long before he heard a muffled moan and snuck a glance upwards to see Lily with one of the pillows held over her head as her hips continued to rock with building pleasure. He lapped at her folds from one end to the other, continuing to circle her clitoris with his tongue until he was almost certain he heard a muffled scream from beneath the pillow, followed by heavy breathing and a sigh. He licked her once more and then sat up, unable to conceal the cheesy half-smile plastered to his face. “Oh, Sev… Oh my love.” He unwound the towel from about his waist, sitting upon the edge of the bed as she eventually gained control of her body once more. He needed her. Her pupils were blown wide, dark from the passion she had felt wrack her from head to toe. She was so lovely, even more so in her current state of mild disarray, when he knew that he was the cause of it all. She pressed a kiss to his cheek, motioning that he should join her further on the bed. Taking his hands in hers she then rolled him onto his back, moving astride him, pinning his heated arousal between her still dripping core and his lower abdomen. The sensation of her wetness and the sight of her was maddening. It was enough for him to remember to breathe. She was naked, she was sitting atop him, and she wanted him. It still stunned him to think that she cared so deeply for him, that she desired his touch, his kisses, and his cock. She stared right back at him, nothing but desire present in her green eyes. She was flushed with own arousal, her hair still dampened from the bath, falling in untidied waves about her shoulders. He lightly brushed a curl behind her ear, the backs of his knuckles lingering in a whispered caress upon her cheek. He growled his desire at her, his hands moving down to her hips, pulling her down to grind upon him, moving his own hips to rub her with his cock at the same time. She moaned his name, head lolling back upon her neck, hips arched just enough so that he could line himself up with her entrance. He groaned loudly as the head of his cock slid into her. Slowly she sunk down upon him, taking him in inch by inch- Severus grunting out her name, his hands reaching for her waist and clinging to her soft flesh as though he would never again let go. She was tight and exceedingly wet, and unable to conceal her own pleasure at the feel of his cock stretching her in such a satisfying way. She stopped in her motions when she had taken him fully inside of her, sitting very still on top of him. Instinctively he bucked his hips against her, attempting to encourage her to move, but she remained purposefully still. “I love you, Lily.” She bent down and pressed her lips to his, beginning to move back and forth, grinding against him as they kissed. He felt himself tingle from the sensation, enjoying the feeling of her movements, though needing something more. He did not protest, finding himself thoroughly distracted when their kiss broke, his head positioned in such a way that he was right between her breasts. He brought his hands slowly up her hips and waist to the bouncing flesh, his thumbs brushing over her nipples- Finding them stiffen at his touch, Lily’s movements speeding up in response as she rolled her head back and moaned. He could bear it no longer, his hands slipping back to her hips and emboldening her to rise up until only the head of his cock remained inside of her, only to quickly pull her back down as he thrusted up to meet her, creating such delicious friction. He repeated his motions again and again, the sight of her riding him, one that had only ever before been a thing of his dreams. He watched her in a lustful fascination, her breasts bouncing with exertion of her shifting hips, her mouth agape in ecstasy. He was certain that if he were to die tomorrow that he would die a happy man thinking about this very moment. Her long hair brushed in a tickling caress of his thighs, his own climax approaching at a cruel pace. As if understanding that he wouldn’t last much longer, she bent down and kissed him twice more upon the lips. She resumed her precise slow back and forth grinding from earlier, nearly forcing his eyes to roll up into his head. It was almost enough to push him over the edge, teasing and exquisite, though not quite enough. His grip on her waist tightened, and he heard himself groaning from deep within his throat, longing that she move faster and take him over the edge. Meeting her eyes, he saw the sly smile upon her slightly swollen pink lips. Veela. She kept to her slow movements for a few torturous moments more, but eventually she sought to satisfy not only his, but her own need. She sped up, the sharp increase in friction nearly forcing him to spill his seed within her at once; she kept moving, chasing her own peak. Seeing how close she was he urged her on, ignoring his own growing discomfort from the mounting sensitivity of his cock. He clenched his jaw, eyes glued to her perfect form, hands holding tightly to her thighs. He felt it before she gasped; her inner muscles clamping down upon him with surprising force as she reached her peak. “Sev! Oh my God…! Sev!” she cried, her hands moving through her beautiful red hair. It wasn’t long before she moved from him, his cock slipping out of her, and the two of them rose silently to utilize the lukewarm water remaining in the tub to clean themselves off. With a quick flick of the wand, the tub and remaining water vanished, the lovers returning to the comfortable bed in the warmth of the tent. Lily curled herself tightly into the space beside Severus, her head resting on his shoulder and chest, a leg thrown across his, the fingers of her right hand caressing up and down the center of his chest and the light dusting of dark hair that grew there. He hugged her tightly, his right arm curved around her back and waist, his left hand covering the right in its soft stroking of his skin. It wasn’t long until both of their eyes grew heavy, sleep conquering the pair as they drifted off into dreams of each other. Chapter End Notes I have a feeling that this might have been the chapter we were all waiting for. And they never even drank the tea that Severus made! Song of inspiration: Fire_Meet_Gasoline_-_Sia ***** Snowfall ***** Chapter Summary Winter may rage outside, but within the confines of the little tent a fire burns. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “Never love anyone who treats you like you’re ordinary.” -Oscar Wilde [lovers] Crimson eyes and translucent white skin. Skin so thin that one could almost see the blood flowing through the blue veins that snaked across the skull. Snake. The sound of malevolent hissing from the master’s pet. Nagini must be hungry again- Only human flesh would do. The slit nostrils flared, teeth jagged as the thin lips pulled away in a disgusted sneer. Blood-traitor. Voldemort lifted his wand, the pale yew seeming unnaturally aglow in the dimness of the space. A well-practiced flick of the wrist and the bright green light sprang forth. The words had been inaudible, everything seeming as though it had been playing out in slow motion. Severus blinked twice, hands running up the front of his black robes, shocked to find himself still alive after having displeased the Dark Lord. The laugh had been thunderous, high-pitched and methodical, the sound blood- chilling. He turned from his master to find the source of the amusement. Death. Not just any either. His knees seemed to go out from underneath him, cold sweat drenching his clammy skin as he reached for her lifeless form. Hair the color of fire, eyelids closed, shielding her remarkably green eyes. Lily. She had finally been his. And now she was dead. Severus awoke with a jolt, his breathing fast, eyes wide. For a moment he had forgotten himself to have been in the tent, well protected, deep within the Forest of Dean. No one knew of his campsite, and no one knew Lily to be with him… Lily. He turned to his right, finding his bed still shared with the deeply dreaming girl that held his heart in the palm of her hands. She had rolled off of him in their sleep, her hair a sea of fiery auburn curls in shocking contrast to the white linens. He rolled onto his side, fingertips lightly caressing through a lock, relishing in the silky-softness. Lily shifted in her sleep, her backside pressing against his groin and his steadily stiffening cock. He stifled a groan from her unaware attentions, his nose burying itself within her curls, the soothing scent of lavender from their bath lightly perfuming her tresses. His change of angle added to the burn within his blood, the further hardening of his cock, as he pressed against her in a way that proved even more maddening. He desired nothing more than to wake her up and take her again- To prove to himself that she was very much alive, and that his imagination had merely run away with itself as he had drifted off into a deep slumber. A quick glance across the short expanse of the tent proved the fire to still be burning within the stove; they had no reason to leave the bed. He wanted her. The insistent nature of his erection was proving itself nothing short of annoying in the present circumstances. He was naked, and so was she- And God, was she beautiful. He would do it, he would wake her. Tentatively, he snaked an arm around her beneath the covers, palm coming to rest upon her belly. He moved his fingertips in a gentle trail of feather light touches up the curve of her waist and gentle flesh of her arm. Shifting slightly, he grazed the tender arc of her breast, middle finger lightly brushing her nipple, skin stiffening under his caress. Moving steadily upward he traced the contour of her collarbone, gently tucking her hair behind her ear as he pressed a tender kiss to her pulse point. Lastly, he touched her lips, the pink skin parting, her breath warm against the pads of his fingers. “Lily?” he breathed. She yawned, “Sev?” He kissed the bare skin of her exposed shoulder, “You’ve filled me with an ardor that I can’t seem to extinguish. Will you let me love you again…? Will you allow me this weakness in your arms?” “Your weakness is my own,” she told him, eyes glittering in the dimness as she sought his dark gaze, lips curled up slightly at the corners. It was all he needed. A surge of want came over him, his hands moving around her, seeking the smoothness of her fair skin, his breathing quickened. He moved his hips; rubbing his cock against the curve of her backside with need, his arousal evident, eagerness causing him to part the fleshy cheeks of her arse as he pressed forward. He groaned, lips leaving fleeting kisses upon the nape of her neck. The movements felt nothing short of glorious as he continued fondling and caressing Lily within the confines of the bed. His kisses grew more heated with each press of his cock, tongue lightly tasting her skin as he gently pinched one of her nipples. “Oh…” Lily moaned, utterly pliant in his arms. He moved his hand from her breast down to the opening between her legs. Fingertips slipping through her soft lower curls, and she parted her thighs in response to his hungry touches. He reached lower still, a groan of pleasure emitting from deep within his chest as he found her wet- Fingers sliding easily through the moisture she had produced. Lily sighed with pleasure, buttocks grinding against Severus’ throbbing cock as she parted her lips and ran the tip of her tongue across the pink flesh of her lower lip. As if guessing her own building need, he took his middle finger and dipped it across the length of her folds, pressing it inside of her. She gasped, soft wet walls clenching around his longest finger. Though further aroused by her reaction to his attentions, he sought something more. Sought to satisfy his cock with that same squeezing sensation that her innermost muscles had only just bestowed upon his finger. He slipped the digit out of her, shifting slightly so that she might roll onto her back. He climbed on top of her, drunk from desire. She bent her knees, feet flat upon the mattress, then slowly brought them up to her chest. His eyes wandered across her naked form, eventually falling upon her fully raised and exposed core. He couldn’t wait any longer. He pushed himself into her in one stroke, burying the length of his cock within her quim. He thrusted with slow, precise strokes, the ecstasy of being inside her nearly consuming him. She moaned loudly, alerting him to her own passions, forcing him to open his eyes and look upon her. The sight of her was enough to illicit a moan all his own, his pace speeding up. Her head was thrown back, lips parted, eyes closed in the throes of her building passions. Every time he filled her she would gasp anew, brow furrowing with pleasure, mouth agape. He couldn’t help but smile wickedly at the knowledge of her true enjoyment at their coupling. Severus felt there could never be another in his life- Had always known that she was the one for him. It seemed that Lily felt much the same way. He certainly had no difficulty in satisfying her… She had made that explicitly clear from each of their encounters. “Fuck, Sev!” she gasped, green eyes opening and locking with his dark ones, “Oh… I love your cock. Oh!” It was enough to send him over the edge. He shut his eyes tightly as he felt her core tighten around him- Signifying her own release. He bucked in uncontrolled thrusts against her, desperate to fall over the edge. He grunted, pulling her legs up flush against his chest as he sought to be deeper still within the confines of her. His sac bounced against her from his movements, tightening with the preparation of completion. As release finally washed over him, he moaned one final sound of pleasure, arms and legs shaky as he sought rest anew from the intensity of their love making. He slid from her, rolling onto his back and wiping himself off with a corner of the sheet. She crawled to him, curling up in his arms as the two once more drifted off into sleep. It was as though the nightmare had never happened. =============================================================================== When Severus next awoke, he rolled over to embrace his lover, only to find himself very much alone. The shadow on the tent walls led him to believe the sun had long since risen, the fire in the stove long reduced to ash and coals. Running his fingers through his tangled black hair he yawned, and then moved to the edge of the bed. He pulled on a pair of boxer briefs, followed by a pair of jeans and T-shirt. For good measure he added his long black robes and cloak. Heavy socks and boots were all that remained before he unfastened the ties to the tent door and slipped outside. Just as expected, he found the Forest of Dean transformed overnight into a winter wonderland. Snow lay in a thick blanket across the once clear forest floor, the boughs of the evergreens hanging low and heavy from the dusting of icy fluff that had been deposited in the night. Clouds hung in the sky, the world no less magnificent in its splendor from lack of sunlight. On the contrary, the snow still glittered like frozen diamonds. It was cold, and despite his layers of clothing, Severus fought a chill crawling up his spine and the uncontrollable need to shiver. A trail of footprints led through the inches of snow, away from the warmth of the tent and to the edge of the magical barrier that reinforced their privacy and concealment. He followed her tracks, noting the immediate disappearance of their path at the edge of his spell’s barrier. Where had she gone off to? Unwilling to wait for her return, or to find her in a state as his earlier nightmare had forewarned, Severus gripped his wand tightly, and set out from the camp to find her. As remarkably beautiful as the surrounding scenery was, he couldn’t help but feel dread bubbling up within him the longer and farther he ventured from the safety of the camp and the warmth of the tent. She had probably left seeking firewood- They had run out by the time he had stirred from his slumber. But why had she not left a note or told him of her intentions? She had wanted to let him sleep. He had known the answer to his question before it had even ceased in being asked. After some time more, he came to a clearing. The snow was untouched, the trees very still in their frosted state. Icicles hung from their low lying branches, the remnants of a lazy brook frozen solid- All except for the tiniest of trickles fighting to stay liquid despite the deep chill. It was silent, beautiful and still, all except for the puff of air made visible from his breath. He would have to turn around soon. There was no telling where she might have gone off to, or if he had even been traveling in the direction she had ventured. She probably hadn’t even come this far. He closed his eyes for a moment, envisioning her traipsing back into the camp and tent to find him gone. He didn’t want to worry her. It was time to return. When he opened his eyes he was greeted with a familiar sight. A crystal-clear, icy doe. She was silent and graceful, her hooves leaving the snowy surroundings unmarred as she wandered alone through the expanse of the deserted space. A wave of his wand brought about a familiar swirling of smoke and then formed with the same precision into an identical creature, albeit slightly larger. She trotted over to the other magical doe, nudging her with secret familiarity. The pair circled the clearing once, before disappearing into the surrounding trees, the glow of their magic fading with the end of the spell. “I never knew your Patronus to be the twin of mine,” a familiar voice said from behind. He turned slowly to find Lily leaning on a tree, a pile of wood floating beside her. She wore grey leggings and her same boots, his flannel shirt from the day before, and her cloak open. Her cheeks were flushed pink from the cold. “It wasn’t always.” She studied him in silence for a time, eyes suddenly sadder in their stare, “For how long?” “Since you left the first time.” “Why?” “Because anything, even just mimicking your Patronus was a means for me to somehow keep you close and never forget.” She smiled, tears sparkling in her eyes. He went to her, hands cupping her chilled and rosy face; their warmth startling to her. He kissed her softly, motioning that they should return to camp. They made the trek back in a comfortable silence, slipping past the unseen barrier and back into the safety of the little site. Severus lifted the flap so that she might enter first, following with the wood and restarting their fire once secured inside. Lily began rubbing her cheeks furiously with the palms of her hands in an attempt to chase away the bitterness of the cold, the fire crackling merrily in no time. “How long do you plan on staying here?” “I’m expected to move on in a few days.” “Where to?” He cast her a look that said it all. “Why can’t you tell me?” she asked, arms crossed over her chest, “What if I planned on coming with you?” “You can’t,” he told her bluntly, “This is one of those journeys I must venture on alone.” “It’s for him isn’t it?” “Lily…” “Sev,” she sighed, sitting on the foot of the bed, “You don’t have to follow him… There’s- “ “’The Order of the Phoenix,’” he scoffed, staring into the flames of the stove, “You said that before, yes.” “But why not?” “I already told you.” She fell back against the softness of the mattress and the chaotic blankets, sighing in exasperation. He went to her, sitting beside her on the bed and leaning over her, “Do you really want to know?” he took her hand in his and gently rubbed circles. She met his eyes, “Nothing you tell me will make me leave.” He wished he could believe that. As if hearing his inner insecurity, she took hold of the edge of his robes and met his lips halfway in a kiss that spanned the distance between them, “Tell me, Sev… Please.” “The Dark Lord has three lieutenants- His most trusted servants. They are his inner council, his blindest of followers to the cause he seeks to promote. They are dangerous, they are loathsome, and they are despicable. They are not the kind of magical-folk that can be reasoned with, that can change opinions easily. You-Know-Who trusts them above all others in his rebel army, they alone are responsible for countless acts of evil… Dark magic performed without thought or concern of whom might be affected.” “Dumbledore could protect you against them, Sev!” she told him, hand caressing his cheek, “They would not be able to harm you if you sought our protection… I can speak to him if you’d like… Not use your name, but see what possibilities might be available. We may not seem a most formidable force, but we do have resources of our own- But you must let us help you.” “Lily, you don’t- “ “Dumbledore could protect you against his lieutenants!” she repeated. He took both of her hands in his, eyes very serious, “I am one of his lieutenants.” Chapter End Notes Lily has learned that Sev is one of the three feared lieutenants of the Dark Lord. Sev has discovered Voldemort's suspicions to be correct regarding Dumbledore's role as the leader of the Order of the Phoenix. DUN DUN DUN... Song for this chapter: Never_Gonna_Leave_This_Bed_-_Maroon_5 ***** Crossroads ***** Chapter Summary The aftermath of some very significant discoveries. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “Perhaps one did not want to be loved so much as to be understood.” -George Orwell [forest] His words echoed in her head. I am one of his lieutenants. I am one of his lieutenants. I am one of his lieutenants. The ability to breathe suddenly seemed to escape her, and she found herself desperately struggling to remain calm. Her eyes betrayed her. She knew it by the look that entered his own dark ones, the way he paused his calming circles he had been drawing upon the back of her hand with his thumb. He knew something was different now than it had been before. She would be lying if she told herself otherwise. Severus was not just any Death Eater… He was one of the most trusted confidantes to the Dark Lord himself. How had she been so blind? What had she done? She felt herself go limp, a sense of hopelessness permeating the whole of her form. She had just revealed Albus Dumbledore as the leader of the Order of the Phoenix. She had put everything that they had long worked for and hoped for at risk. But Severus had promised her that he would not betray her. She had done much the same for him as well. She felt her head spinning as she tried to comprehend the gravity of their situation for the first time. He had warned her- Told her before that things were stacked against them. She now understood the intensity behind his words from their time at the house on Spinner’s End. Being caught with her in his presence proclaimed him instantaneously as a Blood-traitor in the eyes of his supremacist colleagues. All of the risk, even in seeking her out, in hoping that she might find him deep within the canopied and evergreen wild- The Forest of Dean... Why would he put himself through the danger and risk if not for questioning the very root of his loyalty? Suddenly her disclosure of their highest member, of their former Headmaster at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry seemed a very small transgression indeed. Granted, the knowledge being placed directly at the feet of the darkest wizard of recent decades was nothing to scoff at. It was the sort of thing her fellow members of the Order would think impossible from someone such as herself. It put not just their leader’s life in jeopardy, but all of them by association. “What now?” His words seemed to dissipate within the confines of the tent. It was almost as though he had never spoken them to begin with. His eyes were steady in their stare, face blank- Concealing any hint of the own questioning and internal battle that must be waging within. “What is your mission from the Dark Lord?” He opened his mouth to protest, but she raised a palm to silence him. “Sev, we’ve come to a crossroads of sorts. I have promised you that I would not betray you, and I intend to keep my promise. I have not sought you out blindly to lose you again like I did so many years ago. I love you.” She placed her hands on either side of his face, eyes locked with his, “I love you… But you have to tell me what’s going on! I can’t lose you again. The years have changed both of us, but you must recognize that by continuing to follow You-Know-Who, you seek a world in which everything as we know it will change. A world where you and I cannot exist… A world where he wishes me, and those like myself, reduced to ash and washed from memory.” “I would give it all up in a heartbeat for you- “ “But?” “Lily, you don’t know what he’s like!” he exclaimed, fear suddenly shining in his eyes, startling her with a chill to her very core, “He would kill me the moment I defected- The moment he learned about you. He’s done it countless times, and for far less. I told you before that I dedicated myself to his cause fully and without reserve when we parted ways. I don’t claim to be proud of some of the things I’ve done, the evil acts that I’ve helped plan and orchestrate… My proficiency in the Dark Arts led me to finally find the family and comradery that I have always desperately needed. You were far luckier than I.” “I had Tuney,” she laughed. “And you know that despite her meanness towards you that she did- And probably still cares for you more than she would dare admit,” he told her, “She was jealous, and undeniably horrible to you and myself at times, but even I could see that she loved you.” Lily found herself pause at his words, tears stinging at her eyes from the honesty of his observation. Something that James had never, and would never have been able to understand in regards to the eldest Evans daughter. “My father beat me and my mother mercilessly,” he continued, “I would have given anything for a sister that took her pains of exclusion out upon me… It would have certainly been a pleasant change from the fists and belt of a bastard like Tobias Snape. But, Lily… I would not put you at risk ever. The Dark Lord could beat me within an inch of my life and I would never amend my feelings for you.” The tears began falling from her eyes, and she let go of his face, shaking her head in sorrow. “I would never betray you, my love,” he told her, voice soft, hand resting lightly upon her shoulder, “I may be forced to wear his brand- The mark of his cause and my supposed loyalty for the rest of my days, but I will never stop loving the muggle-born girl who first captured my heart at only nine years of age.” “So you must continue with his instructions?” He nodded, “I have to.” “Is there anything that I can do?” “Stay strong and await my return.” “I will have no way of knowing whether you live or die,” she sobbed. He pulled her to his chest, cradling her tightly as she cried, hands moving softly through her auburn curls and lightly caressing her back, “I would not have become a lieutenant if I didn’t succeed at the Dark Lord’s tasks… I suspect I will survive; sustained by the memory of you- Every inch of you. Your smell, your touch… The very feel of you.” =============================================================================== Miles away from the little camp in the Forest of Dean, a figure sat alone before the remnants of a fire. He was wrapped with a comforter, hair in disarray, much like the surroundings; much like his life. How had everything fallen so completely apart? It seemed only yesterday that they had been wed in the Evans’ garden in Cokeworth- Not long after arriving in Godric’s Hollow to begin their life together. He had carried her in his arms across the threshold of the quaint cottage, despite her squeals of laughter and protest. They had vowed to build a life together- For better or for worse. She had given up on them far too soon… He was sure of it. The knock that sounded upon the door seemed queer and very far away. Who would dare interrupt him in the wallows of his sorrow and endless despair? James Potter ignored the intruder on his doorstep, not even turning to acknowledge the presence. In the time since Lily had left everything had fallen apart around him- It was as though nothing mattered anymore if it meant a life without her. He had given in and slept upon the couch, utilizing the common living space of the small house as a studio apartment of sorts. He avoided their old bedroom at all costs. Just passing by the closed door elicited memories devastating in nature. He could not accept that their marriage was over- That they were no more. “James? I know you’re in there! Come on, mate!” a muffled voice called through the heavy front door. “Go away!” he shouted. “If you don’t get off your lazy ass and open this door, I swear I’ll break it from its hinges!” God-damned bastard, his best friend was. He had told Sirius time and time again that he needed to be alone, that he wished time to clear his head and really think. Everyone within the Order of the Phoenix knew that he and Lily were living apart. It was no secret, though an awkward and unfortunate circumstance to say the least. Frank and Alice had welcomed his ex-wife into their London home with open arms. He was certain that she had shared the details regarding the end of their marriage with them; Alice was Lily’s best friend. But he had been unable to utter those words… It was as though finally saying them would prove that there was no possibility for reconciliation, and he wasn’t willing to give in without at least trying. He loved her that much- Even if she thought she no longer loved him. For better or for worse. The pounding upon the door sounded again, followed by one more muffled shout, “If you don’t open this bloody door by the time I reach three, it’ll be coming down!” “Hold your fucking horses!” James boomed, rising to his feet and moving barefoot to the entry. He unfastened the locks and opened the door, squinting against the bright light. “Merlin’s beard, James!” Sirius exclaimed, taking a step back and pinching his nose, “You smell like you haven’t bathed in fucking weeks!” “Go fuck yourself- “ “Now, now…” “I don’t have time for this, Padfoot!” “You have all the time in the world,” Sirius laughed, “I have a feeling I’ll regret this, but- May I come inside?” James stepped aside, comforter still held around his frame as he allowed his oldest friend, and very near brother, admittance to the derelict space. Once inside, he closed the door, returning to his place upon the sofa and leaving Sirius to look about the interior in utter abhorrence. “Well, I can’t say that I like what you’ve done with the place since Lily up and left, but I can say for certain that I very much doubt she would consider taking you back due to the filth you’ve been squatting in.” James grunted, not turning his attention from the nearly overflowing ashes of the fireplace and a few nearly cooled coals. “In all seriousness,” the visitor continued, “What’s happened to you, James? We all can see it… Perhaps the other Marauders and myself most of all. You’re not acting like your usual brash and bastard self. Moony, Wormtail, and I are worried about you- Do you hear me?” “Are you done?” Sirius Black strode further into the space and around the front of the sofa to face the shell of a human that had replaced his once vibrant friend. “You need to move on- “ “Fuck you.” “Maybe Lily was right,” he stiffened, narrowing his eyes at the man seated before him, “If this is the sort of treatment you bestowed upon her, then I applaud her decision in leaving you! I would have too! You’re not acting like yourself. Lily has always been able to take care of herself- Her independence and spirit was what first drew you to her. She’ll find someone else in no time flat to appreciate her if you’re incapable of doing so.” The jolt of movement was discerned by Sirius Black before James had succeeded in casting his curse. He pounced on the man, pinning him to the floor, his own wand pressed to the hollow of his throat. “Do it,” James told him through gritted teeth, glasses askew on his face, “She won’t be coming back.” “Not if you don’t clean this place and yourself up,” Sirius sighed, shaking his head, “I’ll help you, mate… Come on. Enough of all this!” James submitted, raising himself to a sitting position upon the filthy floorboards. He bowed his head, hands grabbing hold of his always-messy short dark hair. “It’s torture seeing her every week at the meetings… I can’t help but stare at her, but she doesn’t even see me anymore. It’s like I already mean nothing to her- That I’m already a stranger! And unfortunate memory that she can’t seem to get far enough away from.” Sirius patted him comfortingly upon the shoulder, “I’m sure neither of you are completely at fault for the way things have progressed… It usually takes two, you know.” “She told me she couldn’t pretend any longer… That she didn’t love me.” “Prongs…” “She told me that I’ve never understood her… That all I ever wanted was just to have her, to possess her,” he shook his head, “Damn it, I’m just so fucking lost!” “Then show her that you want her. That you love her desperately, and that you need her in your life! You have to let her know how important she is to you! You can’t just sit by and neglect her emotions and dreams- Not that you have,” he added quickly, seeing the glare bestowed upon him, “You both lost your parents in the time that you’ve been together… She comforted you through all of that.” “And I tried to be there for her as well!” “With your cock, or with your heart?” James frowned, eyes lowered to the floor once more. “Lily’s life has been one far different than anything you, Moony, Wormtail, or I can relate to,” he continued, “I may have been disowned by my family for my good looks and impeccable charisma- “ A hint of a smile teased the corner of James’ lips. “Prongs, in all seriousness though,” Sirius told his disheveled friend, “It wasn’t easy losing everything I had ever known; no matter how crazy for You- Know-Who my mother and kid-brother were. The Black’s are a proud Pure-Blood family- Their loyalty questioned much more recently, though forever proud of their Slytherin ties. None of us can understand how strange and isolating it must have felt to have been in Lily’s shoes when she discovered herself to be a witch! Women are far different creatures, and it pays to utilize a little sensitivity once in a while.” “I tried!” “Then you must keep trying!” he exclaimed, helping James to his feet, “No one ever claimed that love was easy… You’re the only one of us to have actually settled down, a feat in itself! But I have one question for you, and you must swear to answer it honestly.” “Ask.” “Do you love her?” “Of course- “ “Then you must fight for her! Fight to show her that she married you for all the right reasons! She won’t question her affections for you if you prove yourself worthy of her love. You must take her critiques to heart and change yourself. Yes, you. If you truly love her, it’ll be worth it.” Chapter End Notes I'm normally not a big fan of Sirius Black. However, the role he has played thus far is one of calmness and understanding. I can't say for certain how his character will develop as this tale progresses, though I do believe that he would hold the greatest sway over James in trying to lead him away from his gloom. Fuck_James_Potter. But a good friend always tries to help you out of your darkest times, and that is precisely what I was attempting to convey with their scene. Also, in case it wasn't clear, James has not revealed to anyone the actual fact that his marriage to Lily is kaput... That is a secret reserved for his own inner torment. Musical inspiration: All_of_Me_-_John_Legend ***** Return to London ***** Chapter Summary Parting is such sweet sorrow. Chapter Notes There is a portion of this tenth chapter taken directly from the brilliant William Shakespeare in his famous play, Hamlet. See the end of the chapter for more notes “And Lot’s wife, of course, was told not to look back where all those people and their homes had been. But she did look back, and I love her for that, because it was so human.” -Kurt Vonnegut Jr. [farewell] New_Year,_January_1980 It seemed as though their time had been up before it even began. During her time spent at the hidden camp in the Forest of Dean, Lily had gone through so many emotions- Her heart both filling to the brim and then threatening to shatter seemingly at a moment’s notice. She was in love- Of that she was painfully aware. Severus had already proven himself to mean more to her than she could very nearly comprehend. The knowledge of being parted from him filled her with a growing sense of dread and unease. She had learned of his role- Of his duty to the Dark Lord, and yet she was not frightened away. On the contrary, she desired to remain at his side even more so. The thought of being separated from him again, and forced to return to London, was possibly the most terrifying prospect she had ever been faced with. “When the time is right, I will find the means to contact you,” he had promised, “It will not be by owl, of that I can assure you. It was a risk that I should not have allowed in the first place. I must also ask that you not return to the residence on Spinner’s End.” Erasing every trace of me… “No,” he told her, “Not erasing. I merely seek to protect you in any way that I can.” “How did you-?” “The Dark Lord is a renowned Legilimens. He has made it a point for his lieutenants to share in this feat. It is important, so that we may better serve him on both our dark tasks and in outing the unfaithful amongst his ranks.” She nodded solemnly. “I can teach you Occlumency so that you can seal your inner thoughts,” he offered, “It’s a very useful skill to have should you ever find yourself cornered and questioned by the wrong sorts.” “I would rather just remain safely at your side.” He sighed, hands taking hold of her shoulders gently, “I know.” “I hate that I have to leave this place and all that’s transpired between us behind,” she continued, “I understand why you don’t want to reveal everything to me, Sev. But you have to know that doesn’t make it any easier.” “All will be revealed in due course,” he spoke into her hair, “I must wait until the time is right. Even then, there is no telling if I will be received as hoped, or still thought of as the enemy in disguise.” “So you have considered abandoning You-Know-Who and his cause?” He kissed her, neither confirming or denying her question with a true and spoken response. “Can you read my thoughts all the time?” He laughed, “If I truly sought to invade your privacy in such a way, yes. However, I usually prefer for you to speak your mind in due course, rather than prying the answers I seek directly from you.” Her almond-shaped green eyes gleamed mischievously, “What am I thinking about now?” =============================================================================== By the time Lily had made it back to the Longbottom’s home, number 713 upon a quiet lane in London, darkness had fallen. She had barely closed the door behind her when she found herself greeted by Frank and Alice- In their usual defensive manner. One could never be too careful, and living under the same roof as a pair of Aurors had made that quite evident. They had lowered their wands at once, faces transforming from guarded to gleeful at the sight of their dear friend. Lily had scarcely removed her black cloak by the time Alice threw her arms around her, drawing her into a warm embrace. Wordlessly, Frank took the discarded traveling garment that still remained in Lily’s outstretched hand, hanging it on the coat rack beside those belonging to him and his wife. “I’m so glad you’re back!” Alice smiled, “I’ve missed you terribly… And of course I’ve been worried for you- “ “We both have,” Frank nodded. “Of course you can take care of yourself just fine,” Alice added quickly, “We both know that… But we can’t deny our fondness and attachment towards you since you’ve come to stay with us.” “It’s good to have you back, Lily,” Frank echoed with a smile, hand resting knowingly upon his wife’s shoulder. Lily was touched by their sentiment, not at all offended as Alice had appeared concerned with. Though she continued to feel an unsettling emptiness at being parted from Severus, she could not deny the warmth she felt at having been reunited with Frank and Alice. In the span of the few months that Lily had stayed with the Longbottom’s, she had quickly grown to love them just as much as she might her own family- If they were still alive, or desiring her company (unlikely when it came to Vernon and Petunia Dursley). “There’s a meeting tonight,” Frank told them to fill the silence that had momentarily fallen between them, “I should be heading out. It’s the last one we’ll be able to have with Dumbledore in admittance for some time… What with Hogwarts starting back up for the Spring Term soon.” “Should I come?” Lily questioned, “It’ll only take me a minute to get myself ready.” “No, no,” he protested, “Why don’t you just settle in with Alice. Relax with a cup of tea by the fire and catch up on all the news; I’m sure you have loads to discuss in regards to your travels and adventures. Don’t worry about the others! I will assure them of your safety and inform them that you will join us next week.” Alice’s expression was alight with happiness- Lily knew she was desperate for details and the companionship of her best friend. Maybe Frank was right. Lily nodded with a smile, “Please tell everyone that I’m exceedingly sorry for my recent absences.” “I will,” he smiled. He then reached for his cloak and drew it around him, pressing a tender kiss to his wife’s cheek, “I love you.” “I love you too.” Without another word, Frank left the two women and passed across the threshold of the front door. He disappeared with the decisive ‘pop,’ Aparating into the inky blackness of the night. The pair immediately began securing the front door once more with the usual combination of protective magic before once again turning to face each other. Alice took hold of her best friend’s hand, leading her into the cozy and comfortable back sitting room. A fire burned warmly in the fireplace, and both women retired to the sofa with a steaming cup of tea in hand. For some time, they sat in a contented silence, the glow of the red- orange flames casting dancing shadows upon both their faces, eyes glittering in the dimness. “I presume you found him?” Lily nodded, attempting to contain the cheesy grin of happiness that threatened to spring forth. Alice sat down her cup, pulling her legs up and underneath her. She placed a hand habitually upon her stomach, over the steadily growing babe within. A smile spread across her lips, “Where did you go?” “Deep within the Forest of Dean.” “And did you let him go deep within you?” “Alice!” “What?!” she laughed, “Lily, just you wait until you’re pregnant… Propriety is nothing to me anymore. If Frank would allow it, I’d be getting mine upwards of three times a day.” Lily blushed, laughing at her friend. “It’s a shame he has other responsibilities like work at the Ministry and these- While important, bothersome meetings for the Order. How am I to help the insatiable need that I seem to have for a good ploughing all the time?!” “Oh, you poor dear…” Lily patted Alice’s hand, “Such a neglectful husband you have!” “I know; I know…” Their eyes locked, and both women burst into a fresh wave of laughter. “You look radiant,” Alice told her, retrieving her cup for another warming sip, “When will you see him again?” Staring into the tea remaining within her own cup, “I honestly don’t know.” “Wasn’t that much the same last time?” Lily didn’t respond, she merely continued staring into the cup held in between her hands. Taking the cup from her friend, Alice sat it upon the coffee table with her own. She then took Lily’s hands in her own, her voice low and calm, “’Doubt thou the stars are fire. Doubt the sun doth move. Doubt truth to be a liar- “ Lily’s green eyes met Alice’s brown ones as they spoke the final words together in unison, “’But never doubt thy love.’” =============================================================================== Hogsmeade had always been a picturesque little village. It had long been known as the only all-wizarding community in all of Great Britain. Snow had long since come to the Scottish Highlands, the small township blanketed in white. It was really quite lovely- Not unlike something portrayed upon the front of a holiday greeting card. It was far colder than the wilds of the Forest of Dean, and also far busier with the traffic of people. Severus had packed up his camp, hidden deep within the ancient evergreen trees, the evening after Lily had departed. Bidding her farewell had been harder than he had imagined. She would have stayed with him forever if he had only allowed it- Frankly he was surprised that she hadn’t put up more of a fuss when he had told her that his next leg of the journey must be alone. Their time together had once again been far too brief than either had desired, but with circumstances as they were, they had been lucky to have even managed that. He hadn’t been sure what he had sought from Lily when first sending the black owl to her with the cryptic poetic riddle. Had it been just to satiate his lust? To sink his cock once more into the sheer ecstasy that was hidden between her legs? No. He had never thought of Lily in that manner, and to have suddenly begun to would have been nothing short of absurd. He loved her. Deeply- So much so that the thought of her sometimes was enough to take his breath away. But there were so many factors at play that threatened their happiness, and the hope that they would ever, truly, be able to be together. Albus Dumbledore was the leader of the Order of the Phoenix. The confession of one of the Dark Lord’s long suspected theories had been a surprise. Severus had not suspected Lily to divulge such a detail to him, though he certainly would not seek to utilize the information in any manner that might prove harmful towards her. As though seeking to ease her troubled mind, he had too admitted something of grave importance- His role as one of the three lieutenants. While his divulgence was not nearly as dangerous an admission, it was imperative that she not tell a soul. Revealing such key information could mean only that both the Ministry of Magic and members belonging to her Order would hunt him mercilessly. He hoped that on his own he might be able to uncover the truth surrounding Albus Dumbledore’s allegiance, so that he would not directly be betraying Lily when forced to reveal his findings to Voldemort. He had come to Hogsmeade under the cover of darkness, seeking refuge in a battered cottage on the outskirts of the village that the Dark Lord had ensured was well protected. For how much Voldemort had turned his nose up in regards to the house on Spinner’s End that Severus sometimes called home, this house was nothing much better. Black mold crawled across the bathroom and sitting room walls, paint peeling, and the floorboards stained from water damage. There was a draft that seemed the very breath of winter, the bones of the house stinking of disuse and mothballs. No manner of cleaning or magic was bound to make the place any more tolerable, and Severus had half a mind to set his tent somewhere up the nearby mountain and camp in comfort rather than remain in the refuse of a dilapidated shanty-house. It wouldn't be forever. Memories of Lily were about the only thing that sustained him anymore, the only prospect of a life worth meaning. He wondered where exactly she had gone- He knew London, but he was curious about the details. He did not wish to utilize his skill of Legilimency in seeking her innermost thoughts. Trust and honesty would prove the only means of worthy knowledge when it came to her secrets. It had been hard to open up to her after so many years, and he knew it was much the same for her as well. But it had been easier this time for both of them, and while an accomplishment, it had also brought about a curious sense of unease to their budding relationship. We have to learn to trust each other despite our allegiances… She has to learn the truth of my intentions or else I risk losing her again. He would not lose her again. It was a fact. Unfortunately, being locked up in Voldemort’s safe house was doing nothing for his morale or piece of mind. As he settled into the drafty and uncomfortable shelter that would be his home for the foreseeable future, or at least until he learned the entirety of the details which the Dark Lord sought, he found his mind drifting back to the Forest of Dean and the hope of an escape from his new surroundings. Lily’s question rang through his ears: “What am I thinking about now?” He smiled, eyes closing to the secret fantasy. Chapter End Notes Can I just say how much I love Alice Longbottom. ♥ Also, thank you all so much for your continued trust and dedication to my story- You all make be feel very appreciated and loved with such encouraging comments and kudos! Tearjerker of a song for this chapter: Someone_Like_You_-_Adele ***** Dark Recruitment ***** Chapter Summary The Order of the Phoenix is faced with a strange new report about the priorities of the Death Eaters. Chapter Notes I had not intended on posting this chapter so soon, but it's a special occasion of sorts, so woohoo! :) See the end of the chapter for more notes “When a man cannot choose, he ceases to be a man.” -Anthony Burgess [skull] As much as Lily fought to keep her thoughts of Severus at bay, there was no denying that he was, once again, always on her mind. It was worst in the evenings, of course- And almost always as she drifted off into a restless slumber. Sometimes she found herself plagued by nightmares and dark visions of his untimely and gruesome death. More than once she had awakened sitting stark upright in bed, a thin covering of sweat sticking to her pale skin, the light of the moon casting a sickly shadow through the dancing curtains of her bedroom window. Blood. So much blood and sadness. He was always only just out of her reach, his hands reaching for her help, dark eyes pleading for assistance, and not once was she able to reach him before a ghastly figure struck the killing blow. Unmistakable green light... The telltale sign of the killing curse, Avada Kevadra. She shuddered, throwing the blankets back over her head and fighting to shake the overwhelming feelings that told her that she would never see him again. During the light of day, it was always much more tolerable, and not nearly as dark in imagery. Certainly her mind would wander, though it was often to moments of their time in the Forest of Dean, or their first encounter after so many years apart, at the old house of Severus’ childhood on Spinner’s End. Most recently to the teasing fantasy she had tested his Legilimency with prior to their parting... Lips and tongues entwined, hands clutching blindly for soft flesh. Little bites down the sides of her neck, culminating in a light sucking of her pressure point. Goosebumps crawling up the skin of both arms, flesh tingling with excitement and anticipation of where he might touch her next. She’d bite her lower lip softly, pleading him for more. His hands would resume moving through her hair, his lips barely pressing to the nape of her neck in a fleeting kiss, and then moving down the length of her spine. She’d gasp, eyes darting to find his, her pupils blown wide with desire. She’d very nearly cling to him, hands moving down his chest and stomach, finding the bulge of desire that called to her; touching him outside of his clothes was enough to cause a notable wetness all her own. A warmth would begin in her chest, her nipples straining, nearly chafing against whatever top she happened to be wearing. The same warmth would slowly sink lower, filling her stomach, and crawling down her thighs and around to the junction between her legs. Wetness forming, she’d instinctively press her thighs tightly together, rubbing them with a steady and building need for friction. A need that could only be quenched by the added breadth of his hardened co- “Lily!” She snapped out of her fantasy and back to her surroundings. She was seated at the usual long wooden table, surrounded by her fellow members of the Order of the Phoenix. She blinked twice, hoping that a blush didn’t escape her at this, most inopportune moment. Everyone was staring at her, perplexed expressions upon all of their faces. She turned to her left, to the source of the voice which had pulled her from the depths of her momentarily inappropriate daydream. Kingsley Shacklebolt’s gaze was fixed upon her, eyes not unkind in his pointed staring. “Pardon me,” she managed, “What was the question, again?” A twitch of the corner of his mouth let her know that she had not deviated long from their necessary conversation, “Have you noticed anything odd in your recent travels? Any sign that the Death Eaters might be on the move to less populated areas? I think a logical fear might be that You-Know-Who is perhaps seeking to ‘cleanse’ the outlying areas of Great Britain before focusing wholeheartedly upon the mass population within our largest cities.” Lily could still feel the stares of all her fellow members burning deep within her as she sought the appropriate response to the Ministry’s Head Auror, knowing that even the slightest fib would be detectable to him if his queries grew any more detailed, “I can’t say that I was actively looking for signs, though I didn’t notice anything seemingly amiss or out of place when I was on holiday.” Everyone nodded, seemingly satisfied with her answer, including Kingsley, who resumed his conversations with the rest of the present members. The only part of her time away that had proven somewhat disappointing in nature, was the fact that she had missed out on the last few meetings that Albus Dumbledore had been able to attend before resuming his post fully as the Headmaster at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry for the recommencement of classes. It was a small price to pay for such an amazing time spent alone with Severus… Even if it meant a small twinge of guilt that never seemed to entirely leave her. It was a forbidden romance to say the least, and even the itch to tell someone of such importance as the secret leader of the Order of the Phoenix, could prove of disastrous consequences. No, she would have to remain silent on the matter… Severus had assured her that it was the only way, and that divulging too much information could only mean the untimely death of the both of them. Even Alice seemed to understand the dire circumstances surrounding their mostly secret love affair, refraining from asking too many pointed questions, though Lily could see the admitted restrain in her best friend’s discord. “I have something that I think should be shared with the group,” Sirius Black suddenly spoke, after a brief moment of quiet had fallen over the proceeding, “I had a strange occurrence the other afternoon… I was approached by Rabastan Lestrange.” Murmuring suddenly plagued the room, eyes darting about uncomfortably, various members shifting in their wooden chairs at the utterance of a known Death Eater’s name. “I had just been leaving the Leaky Cauldron, when he pulled me aside down an alley a short distance away. He was very much alone, though I couldn’t help the persistent feeling of being watched all the same. He wasn’t concerned with hiding his allegiance to the Dark Lord either.” James Potter looked visibly concerned, clearly having not heard this bit of information spoken from his best friend until now, “What did he have to say, Padfoot?” The dark-haired man with well-kept goatee licked his lips uncomfortably before continuing, running the fingers of his left hand through his wavy hair absentmindedly, “He told me that the Dark Lord could use members like myself… Pure-Bloods with unmistakable talents. He seemed to know about my abilities as an Animagus, though wasn’t so blunt as to say it aloud- He alluded to it though, and that was enough.” “Unregistered-?” One of the members asked, though they were shut down with a wave of the hand. “Yes, yes… Long story,” Sirius replied noncommittedly, “There’s more than just myself amongst you that can lay claim to the same feat,” he added, and though most would not have picked up on their reactions, Lily noticed a decided change in posture from the other Marauders present, James Potter, Peter Pettigrew, and Remus Lupin. “It’s not important really… The point I was trying to make was that while they’ve been ‘underground’ recently, or at least a hell of a lot less active in their movements, I was openly approached by a Death Eater, not four days ago, in an undeniable attempt to recruit me over to You-Know-Who’s army.” “And what did you tell him?” Lily found herself asking, all eyes momentarily transfixed upon her. “To bugger off!” Sirius grinned, a few members around the table clapping at the bluntness of his response, “I told him to run back to his master before he found himself landed in Azkaban.” Kingsley Shacklebolt rubbed the palm of one hand over his smoothly shaven face, apparently deep in thought. “What’s on your mind?” Frank questioned his supervisor from the Auror Office at the Ministry of Magic. “It would seem that He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named has changed his plans,” he replied slowly, “They’ve been quiet for a long while… Seemingly because of a change in plans to their rebellious cause. It’s my guess, that Sirius was not the only wizard approached by one of their ranks- Nor is it limited to men alone. It is my assumption that the Death Eaters have been enlisted with a new task from the lieutenants overseeing them.” He looked around at his fellow members lining the worn wooden table they frequently sat at, eyes falling for a moment upon Sirius Black, “Your allegiance to the Order is clearly not common knowledge to them, and a good thing too,” he looked at each of the faces present, “We must all be careful, there’s no telling why they suddenly seem intrigued with perusing specific individuals for recruitment into their army, but it would not be out of the question for every one of us to find ourselves face-to-face with a Death Eater before too long.” The remainder of the meeting was met with much distraction and whispering, members clearly uncomfortable with the recent information shared by Sirius Black, and pieced together by Kingsley Shacklebolt. It was recommended for Aparation to happen in pairs or more from the meetings going forward; a distinct understanding of safety amongst numbers. Lily and Frank lined up with everyone else in preparation for departure, with Lily bumping into James accidentally while waiting their turn. “I’m sorry,” she said quickly, turning away before he could say anything to her. “Lily…” She closed her eyes to steady herself against the urge to say something spiteful, and turned to face her ex-husband with stoic stillness. “Just, be careful out there,” he told her, eyes searching hers, then turning to resume his conversation with Sirius and Remus. “Well that was nice of him,” Frank whispered when she had turned back around. Lily’s expression was enough to silence him until they had returned to Alice in the safety of the house on the quiet street in London. =============================================================================== “What do you mean they’re pursuing a list of potential assets to their cause?!” Alice exclaimed the following evening, “What’s that supposed to mean?!” “We don’t even know who’s on the list, or if it’s even a real thing,” Lily stated quickly. “She’s right, dear,” Frank said soothingly, “Just because Sirius was approached by a Death Eater hardly means that everyone will be. It could have just been a random coincidence.” “But you said Rabastan pointed out ‘Pure-Blood’ as a factor when he cornered Sirius in that alley,” Alice pressed, “While that may imply that Lily’s exempt in their recruitment activities, you can’t deny that it would seem that they are seeking to add more ‘preferred’ blood to their supremacist army… Frank, you and I are Aurors! What does that mean for us?!” “It means that they would have to be quite dedicated in their search for us, especially given the fact that you rarely leave this house with the severity of your condition,” he told her, squeezing her hand with gentle pressure, voice lowering, “You know I’d never let anything happen to you, or our baby.” She nodded, solemnly, the expression of concern unmistakable on her features. “I don’t want you to think that I would stand by and not protect or defend you either, Lily,” he added, “You are as much a part of our family now as anyone else, and I would see you safe regardless of some recruitment ploy by You-Know- Who.” She smiled, touched by his consideration for her. Silently she wondered if Severus was privy to this information- He must be. Kingsley had mentioned the three lieutenants at the meeting, and she knew that any direct orders or changes to the plans of the Death Eaters were always passed to the inner circle first. It was they who would then spread the orders of Voldemort to the followers in his ranks, making certain that everything went according to his dark plans. But why hadn’t he told her? Perhaps it was not the most significant of the Dark Lord’s current plans? Besides that, he had not attempted in any way to convert her ideal over to those he had long ago proclaimed himself in allegiance to. No, he had given her every indication that he was planning to challenge his cause, and soon- Though he had certain obligations that he was required to deal with before proceeding with a possible switching of his loyalty. His orders were clearly not in regards to the persuasion of wizards and witches in joining the Dark Lord. But if not entrusted with such a scheme, then what? What dark plan had he been forced to abandon her presence with in order to discover for Voldemort? “So, we’re safe?” Alice had questioned her husband. “For the time being, we have no reason to fear,” Frank assured her. It was only a few moments after he had uttered his words that a knock sounded upon the front door. The three of them turned at once in the direction of the sound, the rapping pointed and unfamiliar. Frank frowned, brow creasing with unspoken worry. Alice placed a hand upon the bend of his arm, her other moving instinctively in a subconscious act of protection as it came to rest upon the curve of her stomach; over the growing life within. He rose from his seat on the sofa, his glance enough to tell both women that he expected they remain silent and out of sight. Lily went to Alice, taking her best friend’s hands in hers, the pair rising and moving to the edge of the sitting room so they might overhear whatever might be said. Frank drew his wand, stepping firmly into the foyer of the house and up to the well-sealed entry. No sign of fear or intimidation escaped him as he stood before the thick wooden door, awaiting any further sign of the unexpected visitor. The repetition of the previous knocking, in much the same manner sounded, this time followed by a sing-song voice, high pitched and eerily familiar, “Longbottoms, yeah?! Open up, Frank and Alice… I know you’re in there!” He shot a quick glance of warning to the two women, Lily and Alice pressing their backs to the wall separating them from the entry. A cold sweat was breaking out on both of their faces, a distinct humming of evil foreboding sounding deafening within their ears. Frank unlatched the door, poised for a potential duel if the defense of his family was at risk, slowly cracking it to peer at the individual upon the stoop. “Frankie, Frankie…” the voice continued, followed by the distinct clicking of her tongue in a ‘tisk, tisk’ sound, “For a moment I was thinking you didn’t appreciate my presence! And how very rude of you that would have been.” “Bellatrix Lestrange?” “The one and only,” she giggled, curtsying on the doorstep, “Might I bend your ear for a moment?” He stared at her, neither agreeing or disagreeing with her preposition. She leaned in close, her breath warm and smelling of cloves as she whispered, “Perhaps you wouldn’t mind inviting me inside, and out of this blasted cold?” “I think it best we stay in our respective locations for the time being,” he told her through gritted teeth, eyes narrowed. “Have it your way,” she sighed, “I’ve been getting quite a lot of that lately… The ‘Prophet’ has a way of making me seem rather an unruly character these days- Not that they have a clue!” she shook her head, eyes darting back to his face with a matching wide and crazed smile, “Your lovely wifey at home?” “Never you mind,” he pressed, “Get on with it, will you?” She made the same ‘tisk, tisk’ sound with her tongue, slowly shaking her head, “A man ready to get down to business! The Dark Lord does value such ideals. You and the missus are Aurors, and thankfully, Pure-Bloods it would appear,” she continued, “The purity of blood has always been prized greatly by the Dark Lord, and he awards loyalty with immeasurable wealth and prestige within his ranks- You both could go far! Very far indeed… We are seeking to supplement our existing forces with well-bred witches and wizards, as well as a few less desirable others…” the last bit coming out a mumble of sorts, “I have been entrusted with finding and informing specifically mentioned individuals- Mentioned by He, the most powerful of wizards, the Dark Lord himself, of his insistence that they see the true benefits in joining the side which seeks a new and brighter future for all of the Wizarding World! The Dark Lord is a very patient and just leader. He values like-minded individuals seeking to free themselves from the backwards ideals that the current Ministry of Magic holds in an archaic fashion. You, Frank Longbottom, as well as your missus, Alice Longbottom, have come to his attention as primary candidates for supplementing his ranks. You would be welcomed with open arms into our factions, not as lowly Death Eaters either, but members of valued assets and ideals. Your lineage is something that is greatly valued, as well as your abilities as Magical Law Enforcement and the uses you may serve us within the Ministry as well.” “And if we were to refuse?” She clamped her jaw shut, a frown overcoming her features, “You would seek to deny the great honor of being sought by the Dark Lord? He personally formed this list of worthy individuals he wishes to have join his ranks… To deny him- To refuse him would be something unheard of… It would be a slight of such magnitude that he could not easily overlook!” she lowered her voice again, “And you, whom have already imprisoned countless members of our cause to the Fortress Azkaban, and interrogated and removed ‘traitors’ suspected within the Ministry of Magic itself.” “All of which has been proven! What else have you to say, Mrs. Lestrange?” Her eyes darted in the direction of the two women concealed behind the wall separating the entry from the living room of the house, filling Frank with a building sense of dread and unease, “Your missus is pregnant, am I right?” Alice stared at Lily with surprise and fear in her eyes. “It would be a shame to see her not live long enough to bear you a Pure-Blood heir,” Bellatrix continued, “A babe truly worthy of a place within the new world as sought by the Dark Lord. My Cissy, my youngest sister is too with child… A child worthy of the world in which we fight for!” Frank was finding it harder and harder to hold his tongue, to resist the building urge to slam the door in her face. It was undeniable that her discovery of their home was unsettling, not to mention her threat towards the viability of Alice’s pregnancy, considering her ongoing troubles with morning sickness, and inability to continue at the Auror’s Office. “Ah, but need I press you further?” she continued, stepping closer to the crack in the doorway, “It is not just you and your wife that I seek… No, the Dark Lord has also insured that I seek a missus Lily Evans Potter.” She smiled at seeing the budding sense of unease creep into his features, “You seem to have guessed correctly that I know she is staying here with the two of you… Her filthy Mudblood status is not something I would prize within such noble ranks as the Death Eaters, but the Dark Lord has assured that there is a place for her within our cause as well- At least for the time being. Should she prove herself unworthy or untrustworthy, I will not hesitate to exterminate her just like the rest of her pitiful race.” “Get out.” “You would deny the Dark Lord-?” “I said, get the fuck out of here!” “You and your wife will have defied him thrice!” she shouted, eyes wild, just as crazed as her curly dark hair. “GET THE FUCK OUT!!!” and with his last bellowing shout, he slammed the door in her face, his chest heaving as he stared at the thick wood separating them. A silence settled for a moment, Lily and Alice stepping out from behind the wall, and just over the threshold into the entry of the house. Frank shot them both a look of apology for his outburst at the unsuspected visitor, knuckles white on the hand that still tightly clutched his wand. “Your rejection of this generous offer will not be forgotten,” the sing-song voice of Bellatrix Lestrange called through the heavy door, “The Dark Lord does not forget such offences as those executed by the likes of you! Watch your backs, Longbottoms… We will seek you out when you least expect it. That goes double for the filthy Mudblood you keep in your company!” She cackled a loud a blood-chilling laugh, “I do love a good game of Hide and Seek…” Chapter End Notes Damn her, that evil Bellatrix Lestrange. Also, holy cow! Over 1000 hits! I am so thankful to each and every one of you. Thank you so much for joining me on this adventure so far! Song of inspiration: Immigrant_Song_-_Trent_Reznor,_Atticus_Ross,_&_Karen_O ***** Prophecy: Part I ***** Chapter Summary Forced into a purgatory plagued with thoughts of the past, and what to do with his future, Severus must decide where his loyalties truly lie. What will he do when the information the Dark Lord so desperately seeks is placed at his feet? Chapter Notes Somewhat graphic descriptions of abuse in this chapter- Please know your own limitations. I don't want anyone to feel uncomfortable. There are portions of this twelfth chapter taken directly from the brilliant J. K. Rowling in her fifth book, Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix. See the end of the chapter for more notes “Stars, hide your fires; Let not light see my black and deep desires.” -William Shakespeare [cloudy night] February_of_1980_-_Severus_Snape Despite the quaint and peaceful nature of the tiny village of Hogsmeade, Severus found himself often sinking into a familiar melancholy. He had never enjoyed the visits that they had been permitted during his time at Hogwarts, partially due to the unspoken probability that he would be attacked by the Marauders if they managed to cross paths. His life had not been an easy one- Not that anyone’s ever truly was, however, he couldn’t help but feel somewhat jaded when it came to his luck. Lily had always been a shining symbol of hope when it came to a future, but even her older sister, Petunia Evans, had managed to dampen some of their encounters in the early years. The auburn-haired witch had been a godsend of sorts when he first learned of her talents. Up until then, all he had was the unfortunate life in Spinner’s End with his alcoholic father and broken-shell of a mother. Things had been as such for as long as he could remember… His father unemployed and taking all his frustrations out upon his wife and son. Try as he might, Severus could not remember the first time his father had cursed his mother with abusive language, or finally began hitting her with the intention of ‘shutting her up.’ Over time, Tobias Snape hadn’t even sought to hit her in those discreet locations that meant neighbors and strangers alike wouldn’t be privy to the abuse in their home. It was not unusual to find his mother sporting two blackened eyes or a fresh purple bruise in the shape of his father’s hand and fingers around her arms or even her neck. The first time he had stood up to his father had also been the first time he had been dealt the physical side of his abuse. Despite the screams of his mother, Eileen Prince, his father had taken hold of him by a fistful of hair, and swung him with a shattering force into a nearby wall. Tobias’ face had been inches away, the scent of stale and sour alcohol permeating Severus’ senses with a nauseating effect. He had been thrown to the floor, his shirt wrenched up over his head, arms still remaining within the shirtsleeves. “Don’t hurt him, please! Please, Tobias-!” Severus punched a nearby wall in the disgusting safe house he was forced to call home. Eyes closed tightly, body numb to the pain that forced its way into his hand from the collision dealt to the crumbling walls. He was again numb, just like when his father would undo the metal clasp of his belt buckle, and pull the leather strap free from his pant loops, an evil grin plastered across his face. A face that his mother had insisted upon reminding Severus was so very similar to that of his own… That was the insufferable muggle part of him that had made him an outcast even to those in his own House at Hogwarts. Tobias had started slowly at first, eventually building to the nearly unfathomable cruelty that he would later unleash. More times than Severus could count, his father would first slap his mother with a deafening strike from the back of his hand, before lashing his son’s bare back with the leather strap of his belt, eventually moving into the depravity that included the hard metal buckle and its scarring collisions. He was always beat until the blood flowed freely, his mother’s sobs echoing throughout the squalor of their home, his father’s huffs of exertion slowly fading as he left them upon the floor, searching out more liquor. Though initially greeted well enough by his Slytherin Housemates, conversations had quickly evolved into who’s family had the longest ‘untainted’ blood lines, and whom shared the most impressive ancestors and claims to the Wizarding World. As far as he knew, there was not one Muggle-born student that had ever found themselves sorted into the House which laid claim to the supremacist founder, Salazar Slytherin. Even he had been something of a minority when it came to being Half-Blood, his mother’s relation to the Pure-Blood Prince’s his only saving grace. Making friends had never been easy for Severus, and matters had been only been made worse when Lily had been sorted into Gryffindor, the long held school rivals of his own House. To make matters worse, she had found herself within the constant company of the same two boys who had sought to bully him from the very beginning of their journey upon the scarlet Hogwarts Express- James Potter and Sirius Black. Severus and Lily had maintained their friendship for longer than most would have tried- Ties from their years prior to Hogwarts keeping their bond strong. But the undeniable stares and whispers from their peers had been exhausting, and then that incident where he had let ‘Mudblood’ slip. He had cursed himself for such a stupid transgression, the rest having been history, with Avery and Mulciber having praised his slur towards his once best friend. “Filthy Mudblood! Stupid of her to think she could even speak in your presence!” “You’ll find someone worthy of your Blood-status soon enough!” He had wanted to hex them both more than anything else in the world. What did they know? He had just made the biggest mistake of his life- He had lost her. He had thrown away years of friendship and the closest thing to love he had ever really known, all because of one moment of rage… One moment where he had been so blinded and tired of the constant mistreatment in his life, that he had finally, and seemingly irreparably, hurt himself by such ill-treatment of the one person who had always shown him kindness and respect. She had changed in that instant, and it had appeared that she would never look at him the same, or even acknowledge his existence ever again. But she had come back. With Lily’s reemergence into his life, Severus had found himself unexpectedly pulled in two very different directions. One part of him was insistent that it was all a mistake. That Lily was merely seeking his company because she knew he had long pined for her- He was an easy replacement for James Potter, when all she really sought was a rebound to once again stand firmly upon her feet. She had told him all those years before that she wanted nothing to do with him anymore. That he had made his decision, and that she could not- Would not watch him ruin his life if it meant dedicating himself to the Dark Arts so fully that he would even consider joining the Dark Lord’s cause. But then the other part of him would chime in. She was his oldest friend. Lily Evans had always stood up for what was right and been a loving and kind person. Even in that instance where he would arguably make the worst decision of his life, he could not deny the obvious facts- “Leave him ALONE!” Lily had shouted as she stepped forward from the lake edge, her auburn curls whipping in the breeze, almond-shaped green eyes narrowed in anger. She had observed James cast ‘Scourgify,’ and all the pink soap bubbles that had streamed from Severus’ mouth at once; the froth covering his lips, making him gag, choking him- “All right, Evans?” said James, the tone of his voice suddenly pleasant, deeper, more mature. “Leave him alone,” She repeated, looking at James with every sign of great dislike. “What’s he done to you?” “Well,” said James, appearing to deliberate the point, “It’s more the fact that he exists, if you know what I mean…” “You think you’re funny,” she said coldly, “But you’re just an arrogant, bullying toerag, Potter. Leave him alone.” “I will if you go out with me, Evans,” said James quickly. “Go on… Go out with me, and I’ll never lay a wand on old Snivelly again.” “I wouldn’t go out with you if it was a choice between you and the giant squid.” She had stood up for him, even though he had been made a fool of by the Marauders once again. Remus Lupin, a Prefect, had just sat idly aside, seemingly absorbed in his reading, turning a blind eye to the mindless bullying of his best friends. But Lily, she had always taken her role as a Prefect seriously, and not only that, but deplored the mistreatment of others for no reason other than the fact that someone disliked them based on appearance. There had been no denying that Severus had sought the expelling of the Marauders on multiple occasions, but always as retaliation for the emboldened bullying that they regularly bestowed upon him. There was question about the obvious dislike between the five young men, but when it was unprovoked attacking, Lily couldn’t just stand by and watch. Especially when it was something so mindlessly absurd as four on one. She had been the only one willing to stand up and say something. The only one who cared enough to defend him when countless others sat by and laughed. Even after things had escalated, with him hexing James with ‘Sectumsempra,’ and then being embarrassingly hung upside down in the air… Even after James Potter had dropped him back to the ground in a crumpling force, followed by Sirius’ addition of ‘Locomotor morits,’ Lily had not backed down. “LEAVE HIM ALONE!” she had shouted, her own wand out now, James and Sirius eyeing it warily. “Ah, Evans, don’t make me hex you,” James had said earnestly. “Take the curse off him, then!” “There you go,” James had sighed, muttering the counter curse, “You’re lucky Evans was here Snivellus-“ And then Severus had made the worst decision- The one true regret of his life. But, remarkably, even after having uttered such a horrible thing… A word he had heard thrown about his Common Room more times than he could count, though never uttered by himself, before that very moment in his life, yet Lily still surprised him. Despite James’ roaring demands that he apologize, Lily had come back with a noble retort all her own. “I don’t want you to make him apologize,” she had shouted, “You’re as bad as he is…” “What? I’d NEVER call you a – you-know-what!” “Messing up your hair because you think it looks cool to look like you’ve just got off your broomstick, showing off with that stupid Snitch, walking down corridors and hexing anyone who annoys you just because you can- I’m surprised your broomstick can get off the ground with that fat head on it. You make me SICK.” Despite her feelings at the time, Lily had gone on to marry that leader of the Marauders, James Potter. The very same boy whom she had claimed ‘made her sick.’ It had been a hard pill to swallow, but Severus had accepted it… What choice did he have? For years he had fought the torment of losing her friendship, of losing the secret hope that she would one day love him. He tried relentlessly to replace his feelings of loss with anger- Something masked momentarily with his dedication to the Death Eaters and the supremacist cause that most of his former Slytherin Housemates had pledged themselves to after finishing their seventh-year of schooling. It had all been in vain. None of it but a bandage pretending to heal a wound that would never heal. He loved her, he always had. And with her new return into his life, the way in which she looked at him, he knew that his answer had long been made up. He would have to change sides. He would do anything if it meant the happiness and future that a life with Lily symbolized. =============================================================================== The thatched roofs of the cottages of Hogsmeade were still piled high with snow, the crisp mountain air clean, though almost painfully cold when it filled one’s lungs. With the recommencing of classes for the latest term at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the village found itself quiet, serenely so, as the magical inhabitants went about their usual meanderings with the hope of the spring snowmelt fresh in all of their minds. Severus had seen to his dark task bestowed upon him by the Dark Lord. He had been given little to go on, and tracking Albus Dumbledore was certainly no simple task. Everyone with a shred of magical upbringing had grown up hearing about the Headmaster’s famous confrontation with Gellert Grindelwald. Their standoff had occurred in 1945, a duel legendary in its intensity for the vanquishing of a Dark Wizard who, until recently, had been considered one of the most dangerous and despicable of all time. He had been imprisoned in his fortress at Nurmengard, originally constructed to house his own opponents. Grindelwald’s slogan, ‘For the Greater Good,’ which had long been carved upon the exterior, was given a whole new meaning when he was finally locked inside- The world saved from his dark plans. Any fear that Europe, or the rest of the Wizarding World may have felt towards the original Dark Wizard, was dwarfed with the steady rise of Voldemort. Thus, Albus Dumbledore was an intimidating individual that it would not do well to be over-confident in tailing for information. So far he had only caught a glimpse of his former Headmaster twice. Not the most encouraging prospect for nearly three weeks of work. On both occasions he was either coming or going from The Three Broomsticks Inn, most likely having a drink in the company of Madam Rosmerta. However, on the last of those sightings, he had overheard one promising bit of information- Certainly his best opportunity as of late. “I suppose I won’t be seeing you for quite some time, Albus- “ “I have an interview for the Divination post in a fortnight,” he had told her with that usual twinkle in his bright blue eyes, “I might stop in to say ‘hello’ if I have the time.” Madam Rosmerta had stifled a laugh, “I thought you were planning on ridding Hogwarts of that poppycock?!” “As did I,” he had told her kindly, “However, this particular individual has persuaded me that if there is any hope in the subject continuing, that I had best give her at least an hour of my time.” “Well, good luck!” she had called with her usual smile, “I can set one of the rooms aside if you wish to meet with the candidate here?” He shook his head, “She has requested The Hog’s Head Inn, I’m afraid… Not exactly my first choice, but who am I to refuse?” It hadn’t been much, but it had been something. Unfortunately, that had also meant another miserable two weeks spent in the pitiful excuse of a house on the outskirts of Hogsmeade. How Severus yearned to complete the task so that he might return to his much more comfortable existence of camping throughout the countryside of England, or even to the old house on Spinner's End. More than that, he longed for the feel of Lily's smooth, soft, fair skin- And warmth that her body offered him when she was laying naked beside him. It already seemed uncomfortably like a distant memory, the silken feel of her red hair, and the smell of the lavender oil she bathed with. He had to get back to her. And, he hoped, that this would be the last time they would be forced to be parted. If all went well, he might also be faced with a new life, potentially not in the service of the Dark Lord. It was hard to imagine, and only time would tell if he might be successful or not. His feet sunk into the freezing slush as he made his way through the darkened village of Hogsmeade to the less-than reputable establishment on the opposite end of the town. He passed by the darkened windows of Madam Puddifoot’s Tea Shop, Honeydukes, and the favored destination of the Marauder’s- Zonko’s Joke Shop. Apart from a few bundled up individuals heading for their homes, the streets were utterly deserted. He pulled his own black traveling cloak tighter around him, the chill of the wind seeping into his very skin and bones beneath. A dim light illuminated the windows of The Hog’s Head Inn; not nearly as prominent or inviting as one might have found The Three Broomsticks. Then again, the seedier establishment had never been known for attracting the kind of clientele that sought an experience by means of exquisite meal and company. No, if you were dealing in less-than legal activities, or seeking to go unremembered while taking a quick stop in Hogsmeade, you would be far more inclined to visit the less reputable business. With a shove of the door he found himself inside, about ten or so others scattered throughout the lower barroom space. Behind the bar, there was no buxom witch with an enchanting smile- Instead, a broad-shouldered man of quite an impressive height, with a long and tangled grey beard, and two brilliantly blue eyes. He would occasionally look up and glance about the room, periodically grunting his understanding when one of his patrons sought to order another drink. Most of the time he focused intently upon wiping down his various tankards and glasses behind the bar with a seemingly filthy rag, paying no one much attention. Hung high above him, close to the cobwebbed rafters, was the namesake of the establishment, the enormous mounted head of a hog, its tusks a dusty ivory, beady glass eyes unseeing, mounted upon a shield-shaped board. When Severus had stepped within, he quickly shrugged off any accumulated melting snow from the outside, briefly stomping his shoes to rid them of the additional slushy-wetness. His black hair was a mess, damp and tangled, falling all about his head in disarray, partly obscuring his vision. He went to the fire across the space, warming his hands in the radiating heat, snowflakes melting in his dark beard- Still unshaved from before seeing Lily in the Forest of Dean. He looked like no one; he had effectively become no one. He would not be easily recognized, and that was good enough for the time being. “Firewhisky,” he grunted to the imposing barman, voice sounding nothing like his usual even, deep drawl. The grey-bearded man grumbled something incomprehensible, setting a shotglass filled with amber liquid upon the bar. He then ignited the fluid, a yellow- orange flame crawling across the surface. The little glow set deep shadows upon Severus’ face, and he frowned, turning from the man with the drink in his hand. He downed it in one gulp, setting the glass back down upon the bar, face not betraying the strength of the drink. He instantly felt warmed, the heat of the concoction heating him thoroughly, as it slithered down and into his stomach. As much as he hated liquor for what it had turned his father into, Severus drank sparingly when it was expected. And for this role, this location, this very moment in time, it only made sense that he should have at least one drink to fit in with the surrounding crowd. If he hadn’t, he would certainly have stuck out like a sore-thumb. “A sickle,” the barman told him. Without turning around, Severus laid the silver piece upon the counter, striding away to a table bathed in shadows and silvery cobwebs. It was at the foot of the creaky staircase that led to the second floor of the place; the perfect spot to wait for his most opportune moment. How would he go about it? Would Dumbledore even want to hear what it was that he had to say? The man had long held the Marauders in a favorable light throughout their shared time at Hogwarts- A fact that Severus Snape had never truly forgotten. All of those times that something had happened between them, there had always been an excuse or a reason behind the bullying, the broken bones and lacerations… Not to mention the bruised ego that he had always been left with. Four on one… Or at least three on one, in ninety percent of the situations. Remus Lupin had never been one to be quite as callous as the other three Gryffindors he associated with, and being a Prefect had allowed him an easy-out from their usual shenanigans. It had not, on any instance, ever stopped his friends, James Potter, Sirius Black, or Peter Pettigrew, from tormenting Severus incessantly and at every turn or opportunity. To the Professors at the school, it had always been just another instance of ‘boys being boys,’ though the incident with the Whomping Willow had finally proven something different. With Sirius Black’s dark practical joke of showing Severus the means to subdue the violent tree, he had put the Slytherin’s very existence at risk- But not just his life, his humanity. Much to Severus’ distaste, he had been forced to thank James Potter for saving him from the fully transformed werewolf that resided at the end of the earthen tunnel- The very same Prefect, Remus Lupin. It had been the beginning of the end for his relationship with Lily; the truth of Remus' true genetics a required secret, that Dumbledore had insisted remain concealed under threat of expulsion. To make matters worse, Severus had also been forced to show James some gratitude... A bitter pill to swallow when dealing with his worst enemy. It wasn’t long after those events that his worst memory had occurred, leaving him alone with only his fellow Slytherin’s for company. It had been the means of beginning his dedication and focus to the rise of the strongest dark wizard the world had yet known… A focus that would give him meaning when everyone else had considered him a lost cause, a loser. He did not want to interrupt Dumbledore in his interview, though he had to make certain to speak with his former Headmaster, or risk losing an opportunity to switch allegiances that may never present itself again. Slowly, he rose from the shadowy table and climbed the steps leading to the second floor rooms. The hallway was dim, lit by the occasional dirty lamp that cast a dingy yellow glow upon the peeling wallpaper that adorned the walls. There was an unmistakable smell of mildew, the floorboards somewhat spongey underfoot in various places. He had no idea in what room Albus Dumbledore was conducting his school business, his only hint the slight glow that emerged beneath the doors lining the hall. Stopping at the first occupied room garnered no new information. The second and the third were much the same, though the voices within betrayed nothing to the scholarly tone of the aged wizard. It was the very last door on the left that was Severus’ last hope. The window at the end of the hall before him, showed darkness and a flurry of white snow behind it, the blizzard once again whipping into full-force in the frigid Scottish Highlands. Pressing the hollow of his ear to the wooden door, he waited, listening patiently for any indication that he had finally found the right room. “Forgive me, but there is nothing more to say,” Dumbledore’s voice stated calmly and gently, “This has been a very enlightening meeting, and I appreciate your time… Unfortunately, I feel as though my earlier beliefs on the continuation of the Divination courses at Hogwarts have been made abundantly clearer still. I am sure you will find an establishment that appreciates your talents, Ms. Trelawney, however, I do not feel as though our young wizarding minds would benefit much from your ‘inner eye,’ or ‘second sight' at this time." “Professor, please!” Severus straightened slightly, the doorknob turning with the impending exit of his former Headmaster, the door cracking just slightly, “Thank you, again- “ “THE ONE WITH THE POWER TO VANQUISH THE DARK LORD APPROACHES… BORN TO THOSE WHO HAVE THRICE DEFIED HIM, BORN AS THE SEVENTH MONTH DIES…” The sound of the formerly ethereal female voice had transformed, quite suddenly, to one harsh and hoarse; almost as though another being entirely had spoken forth from her vocal chords. “What in the buggering hell are you doing up here?!” the gruff voice of the barman boomed from behind Severus, a large and powerful hand enclosing on the collar of his black traveling cloak, “Listening in at people’s damned doors- Have you no respect?! Get out of my place, you worthless git!" Albus Dumbledore turned for one quick moment, and his strikingly blue eyes, very like the barman's, stared straight into Severus' dark ones for the briefest of glances. But before Severus had any opportunity to retort the accusations of the grey-bearded man, or attempt to speak with his former Headmaster, he had found himself dragged down the upstairs hallway, and then the dusty stairs of the building. The front door of The Hog’s Head was flung open with a burst of frigid wind, and Severus Snape found himself thrown out into the raging storm beyond. Chapter End Notes Uh-oh... Your song for this installment, another favorite: Heart_Shaped_Glasses_-_Marilyn_Manson ***** Prophecy: Part II ***** Chapter Summary Albus Dumbledore has returned to Hogwarts after the two week holiday break. As always in life, not everything is as it seems... Chapter Notes There are portions of this thirteenth chapter taken directly from the brilliant J. K. Rowling in her fifth book, Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix, as well as her sixth book, Harry Potter & The Half Blood Prince. See the end of the chapter for more notes “Greatness inspires envy, envy engenders spite, spite spawns lies.” -Tom Marvolo Riddle [snowflakes] February_of_1980_-_Albus_Dumbledore The holiday break from the usual coursework at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry had been a blessing for more than just the students belonging to the four Houses. Though normally content to his duties as Headmaster of such an ancient and noble institution, Albus Dumbledore had felt his mind wandering more and more often as of late. The silence from both the Dark Lord and his Death Eaters had left him feeling just as perplexed as the other members of the Order of the Phoenix, the growing sense of unease hard to suppress. Tom Riddle had always been a fascinating boy, both amazingly talented with a natural ability when it came to learning all things magical, and yet displaying an undeniable propensity for the Dark Arts that delved far deeper than a boyish curiosity. Those same traits had been remarkably parallel to another youth that Albus had himself associated with many decades earlier- Gellart Grindelwald. In their young and informative years, they had, themselves sought a world not unlike the one Tom, now Lord Voldemort, hoped to bring to fruition. Ariana had been the end of his involvement… A painful accident that could never be taken back. He sighed, hand stroking through the long coarse hairs of his beard, mind drifting far away to memories and thoughts he wished were anything but true. It had taken years and years for Aberforth to speak to him again… His only living relative, his brother no less. Allowing oneself to meddle in things such as the power of the Dark Arts could never bring happiness. Albus Dumbledore felt that he understood that fact better than most. What Tom Riddle hoped to achieve, what he sought through his wicked acts could never be understood by the Headmaster. He had met the boy when he still resided in Wool’s Orphanage in London. It had been he, back when his beard was still a youthful auburn, who had revealed to the youth that he was ‘special,’ that he would have a place to learn and safely study the gift that he had been bestowed from birth. “I know you are not mad,” he had explained calmly, “Hogwarts is not a school for mad people. It is a school of magic.” “Magic?” Tom had repeated in a whisper. “That’s right.” “It’s… It’s magic, what I can do?” “What is it that you can do?” “All sorts,” Tom had breathed, a flush of excitement rising up his neck and into his hollow cheeks, “I can make things move without touching them. I can make animals so what I want them to do, without training them. I can make bad things happen to people who annoy me. I can make them hurt if I want to… I knew I was different, I knew I was special. Always, I knew there was something.” But even from that first meeting, it had been apparent that something was off about the boy. Try as he might, Albus found himself having a hard time not keeping a watchful eye upon him during his time at Hogwarts. It would prove, at least in this case, that his first impression had indeed been a correct one. He had no doubt, though he was unable to prove it, that Tom Riddle had been the true opener of Salazar Slytherin’s Chamber of Secrets during his time at the school. A fact that had led to the unfair expulsion of the half-giant, Hagrid. There was no doubt in his mind that Armando Dippet had acted out of reaction when presuming that a creature such as an Acromantula was the reason behind the unfortunate death of Myrtle Warren- Moaning Myrtle. All of the signs, including Tom’s earlier revelation from that same first encounter, had led Albus to believe that the boy might indeed be the heir of the most opinionated founder at their school, a strong believer in the purity of bloodlines. “I can speak to snakes. I found out when we’ve been to the country on trips- They find me; they whisper to me. Is that normal for a wizard?” There was no way of knowing what was hidden in the bowels of the school- What dark dangers Salazar Slytherin had left behind with the intent of ‘cleansing’ the school of unworthy blood… Apart from whomever had opened the secret passageway, no one knew where to even begin to seek such a location. If the ghost of Miss Warren had any idea, she was certainly still too emotional and of no mind to speak the answer to such inquiries. It was most likely a serpent of some sort, a creature left to slumber until awakened by the true heir of its original master… A dark nightmare nearly one thousand years old. Tom Marvolo Riddle had disappeared shortly after his education had concluded at Hogwarts, reappearing some twenty years later to inquire about the open posting for Defense Against the Dark Arts. Albus Dumbledore had struggled to maintain composure when faced with his former pupil. Tom had long been a handsome lad, tall and fit, with well-kept jet-black hair, and undisputable good looks. He had always been deeply focused upon his education, never seeking the distraction of young love like so many of his peers. That dedication to his magical studies led him to become first Prefect, and then Head Boy. A feat not overlooked by his Head of House, Horace Slughorn, who also made the boy a starring feature in his bourgeoning Slug Club. But twenty years had transformed the once strikingly handsome youth into an indistinguishable figure. Dark magic and evil wanderings often led to such changes, and it was nothing short of staggering in its severity. He closed his eyes, remembering the memory that Horace Slughorn had long ago allowed him to view, knowing fully well that it had been tampered with. “Sir, I wondered what you know about… About Horcruxes?” “I don’t know anything about Horcruxes and I wouldn’t tell you if I did! Now get out of here at once and don’t let me catch you mentioning them again!” He sighed, knowing full well that it could only be something so horrible as the aforementioned that might succeed in transforming a person so completely- Into a mere shadow of their former self. He could only hope that Horace had not divulged too much, and that with time he might actually reveal the truth behind the obscured portions of the memory he had shared. Albus could also only pray that he had succeeded in removing ‘Secrets of the Darkest Art’ from the restricted section of the library before Tom had been able to read its contents. Why had they ever allowed such a book to be in the school’s possession? It seemed an unfathomable prospect that he couldn’t help but question his predecessors for allowing… If they even knew. Returning to the meetings of the Order of the Phoenix proved a pleasant distraction at least. Unfortunately, they all seemed plagued with much the same questioning as to the current motives and whereabouts of the rebellious cause. One thing had caught him off guard, and that was the absence of one of their most dedicated members- Lily Evans. He did not wish to pry, and could tell from the look on her husband, James Potter’s face, that it might not be the best subject to broach in the company of the whole of their numbers. A passing conversation revealed to him their separation, though not the extent of such- A detail of which he did not seek to know, for it was none of his business. He was informed that she was staying with Frank and Alice Longbottom in London. He had then proceeded to question Frank, though not too pointedly, merely seeking the knowledge that Lily’s life was not in danger. It seemed to not be, from the information that was passed to him, though he was not certain of how truthful the answer had really been… A factor that he was not sure if the Auror was directly responsible for, or if it was, in fact, Lily’s own doing. She had every right to seek her own privacy, though he couldn’t help but feel a twinge of unease for the safety of his former pupil, the once Prefect, and later Head Girl during her time at Hogwarts. He had not managed to see Lily during the two weeks that he attended meetings with Order members, though had been assured of her return by Frank Longbottom during their last meeting- Shortly before his return to the Scottish Highlands. It was a shame he couldn’t see her with his own eyes to make certain of her safety… Anyone coming from muggle-born origins was certainly at risk these days, and he only sought her shelter from the supremacist storm that raged seemingly everywhere. It had been that same evening that he had received a written request from one Sybill Trelawney- Also a former student, seeking an interview for the available post of Divination Professor. It had taken every bit of reservation to not condescend or ignore such a request… His personal feelings being hard to set aside in regards to the ludicrous subject, that was frankly- Hogwash. But, Sybill could, quite possibly, possess the same abilities as her Great-Great-Grandmother Cassandra Trelawney. There was the faintest chance, faintest! And for such a reason, he had felt himself obliged to allow her the opportunity to interview for the post. If the rumors were true, Seers often did pass their skills down through generations, and with one so famous as Cassandra Trelawney in their heritage, he felt that it was worth a shot. However, that did not mean he believed anything would come of it! In fact, no generations between the pair seemed to have a shred of the ‘inner eye’ or ‘second sight’ that Cassandra was renowned for. Even Sybill had been an average student during her time at Hogwarts… Never once had she given him or a colleague the impression of her possible possession of such aptitudes. If she proved false in her claims, he would politely decline her services. It was a simple fact. It was on the very day that he had received her response that he found himself seated in The Three Broomsticks chatting idly with Madam Rosmerta. Though he didn’t fear sharing with her his disappointment in regards to Sybill’s choice at meeting across the small village at The Hog’s Head Inn, he kept one fact a secret… He felt as though he was being watched. On both occasions that he had ventured into Hogsmeade since returning to his post, he had the faintest tickle at the back of his head that could only mean eyes following him through his trivial wanderings. He knew well enough that the feeling stopped as soon as he had returned to the Hogwarts grounds, which left him even more convinced of the seemingly unseen presence. But when he thought ‘unseen,’ he knew better than to assume Potter, Black, Pettigrew, or Lupin. While the boys had certainly utilized the Potter family heirloom of the mysterious Invisibility Cloak during their tenure at Hogwarts, this was something altogether different. This was an individual, he was certain of it, that was carefully monitoring his movements. But to what gain? And for whom? Lord Voldemort was the obvious answer, albeit a rash conclusion. “I suppose I won’t be seeing you for quite some time, Albus- “ Madam Rosmerta had smiled to him as he opened the door to take his leave. “I have an interview for the Divination post in a fortnight… I might stop in to say ‘hello’ if I have the time.” She had stifled a laugh, “I thought you were planning on ridding Hogwarts of that poppycock?!” “As did I,” he told her kindly, “However, this particular individual has persuaded me that if there is any hope in the subject continuing, that I had best give her at least an hour of my time.” “Well, good luck!” she had called with her usual smile, “I can set one of the rooms aside if you wish to meet with the candidate here?” He shook his head, “She has requested The Hog’s Head Inn, I’m afraid… Not exactly my first choice, but who am I to refuse?” Albus Dumbledore had barely stepped outside into the momentary sunshine, when he caught a fleeting glimpse through squinted eyes of the swirl of a black cloak disappearing behind a nearby building just within his peripheral vision. He frowned, brow furrowing slightly, his instincts clearly having pointed him to the correct conclusion of being watched. He proceeded upon his walk back to the castle with a slow and leisurely pace, not willing to seem nervous from the recent observation. The individual probably didn’t realize that they had been glimpsed, which led him right back to his initial suspicion as to the source. It was just as he was crossing the barrier of Hogwarts’ protective field that he paused for the briefest of moments, bending to brush a well-placed tangle from his robes. It was enough of a moment to peek at the edge of the nearest building from the corner of his eye. Though not the most ideal of glimpses, he caught the briefest of looks at the wizard who had been tailing him. Black robes, tall and thin, longer dark hair, and a heavy beard to match. He couldn’t see the eyes, nor would they have revealed much, though there was no mistaking the angle of the jaw, or the aquiline nose. Severus Snape. =============================================================================== Albus had made it a point to avoid The Hog’s Head Inn whenever possible. It wasn’t so much that he sought to dodge an encounter with his younger brother, Aberforth, on the contrary, he understood explicitly how much they both valued their own space. Though hardly able to call one another friends, they could at least tolerate a few moments of necessary conversation when it was required of them. There were hardly two wizards that had less in common, or held more unspoken words between them, but on the matter of the Order of the Phoenix, they could always find common ground and agree. When Tom Riddle had returned to Hogwarts after his long absence, seeking the Defense Against the Dark Arts posting for the second time, it had been Aberforth who had informed Albus of the Death Eaters waiting for their master’s summons from the shadows of the seedy Hogsmeade bar. A well-kept secret between the pair, their relationship occasionally proved quite beneficial. At precisely seven-thirty in the evening, Albus Dumbledore knocked upon the door at the end of the narrow hallway on the second floor of The Hog’s Head Inn, having managed to slip past the downstairs patrons unnoticed, his presence only known to his brother who was occupied with the bar and customers below. There was rustling within, followed by a fumbling of the doorknob, as the door was pulled open to reveal an eccentric witch with frizzy dirty-blonde hair, and eyes magnified to an enormous size behind her oversized glasses. She hiccupped upon seeing him, a blush of nervous-embarrassment crawling up her neck and cheeks. “Good evening,” he nodded to her, “Sybill Trelawney, it has been quite some time.” She stepped aside to usher him into the space, a room not worth mentioning for its furnishings or adornments. She had pulled up two rickety chairs to a nightstand that was draped in vibrant plum-colored fabric, a crystal ball set atop the uneven piece of furniture. She was a homely woman, small of frame, her common robes made all the more ornate with the addition of multiple shawls draped over her shoulders, as well as various gold and silver chains hanging from her neck, one adorned with a large piece of rose quartz. Every finger of her hands had some kind of ring on it, whether studded with a gem or plain. Bangles jangled around her wrists, and she smelled strongly of cooking sherry. He could tell she was anxious by the way her eyes kept darting around the room, to everything they could focus upon, except him. “I foresaw that you would be on time,” she managed, voice cracking. “Would that be because I am punctual?” he thought to himself, “Or perhaps because she heard my footsteps upon the stairs or the creaky floorboards of the hallway outside of her room?” Now, now, Albus. “This crystal ball belonged to my Great-Great-Grandmother,” she continued, moving to one of the chairs, hands lightly moving above and around the heirloom object, “We could begin there… Or perhaps with tea leaves-!” “Calm yourself, Sybill,” he said not unkindly, sitting in the empty seat directly opposite of her, “You need not even make a prediction of any kind… I am here merely to speak with you as to your qualifications, and what brought about your interest in joining the Hogwarts faculty.” “Divination, sir!” she breathed, eyes widening even more- He had thought it impossible until seeing it, “The great art of my ancestress, the famed Seer, Cassandra Trelawney.” He nodded, jaw clenched tightly. “I have traveled near and far since leaving Hogwarts, my abilities with the inherited ‘inner eye’ leading to successful readings to countless witches and wizards… My ‘second sight’ has never led me astray yet.” She seemed desperate, painfully so. “What kinds of predictions have you made, if I may ask?” “All types!” she exclaimed, an awkward smile spreading across her lips, “Fortune, fame, beauty, romance- “ He held up his hand to stop her, shaking his head, “My dear, how many have actually come to fruition?” Her jaw clamped shut at once, a slight tremor appearing in the muscles of her jaw. There it was. Just from that change, from the diversion of her eyes, he knew the truth all at once. She had been using the name of her paternal ancestor in order to garner a following, a fame of sorts. She clearly lacked the abilities herself, desperate as she might be to possess that same aptitude of legend. It was evident that she was riding the coattails of Cassandra Trelawney in order to bring about some sense of productivity to her life, even if it meant falsely ‘seeing’ the future and conning unsuspecting wizards and witches out of their well-earned silver and gold. Just as he had suspected. “P- P- Professor?” she squeaked, color draining from her face. He rose from the chair, “Unfortunately, it would seem that we may have already reached an impasse of sorts… I am glad that I could give you this opportunity, Sybill. You certainly deserved as much, given your background. I should be heading back to the castle.” “B- B- But wait! You should at least allow me to read your palm, or bring out my tarot cards!” “Forgive me, but there is nothing more to say,” he stated calmly and gently, “This has been a very informative meeting, and I appreciate your time… Unfortunately, I feel as though my earlier beliefs on the continuation of the Divination courses at Hogwarts have been made abundantly clearer still. I am sure you will find an establishment that appreciates your talents, Ms. Trelawney, however, I do not feel as though our young wizarding minds would benefit much from your ‘inner eye,’ or ‘second sight.’” “Professor, please!” His hand closed around the doorknob, turning it and making to leave, “Thank you, again- “ “THE ONE WITH THE POWER TO VANQUISH THE DARK LORD APPROACHES… BORN TO THOSE WHO HAVE THRICE DEFIED HIM, BORN AS THE SEVENTH MONTH DIES…” He spun around with shock and surprise at the change which had overcome her, both physically, and transforming her voice from its once ethereal nature to one of hoarseness and harshly uttered words. Her eyes were blank and unseeing, body limp and seemingly possessed. However, this was clearly not the Dark Arts at play- No, she was actually having a prophecy! “What in the buggering hell are you doing up here?!” Aberforth’s voice boomed from the hallway, “Listening at people’s blasted doors- Have you no respect? Get out of my place you worthless git!” Albus Dumbledore had turned back around at the sound of his brother’s voice, eyes locking upon a familiar pair of dark ones just beyond the slightly ajar door. It was the same figure that had been stalking him from afar on both previous trips to the little village. Severus Snape had been caught red-handed, the back of his black traveling cloak tightly gripped by the grey-bearded Aberforth. There was no time for them to speak, of that much was certain, for he was already being dragged from his position at the door and most likely to be ejected from the building within a few moments. “AND THE DARK LORD WILL MARK HIM AS HIS EQUAL, BUT HE WILL HAVE POWER THE DARK LORD KNOWS NOT… THE ONE WITH THE POWER TO VANQUISH THE DARK LORD WILL BE BORN AS THE SEVENTH MONTH DIES…” It was almost as if it had ended just as quickly as it had suddenly begun, and the message itself, was monumental in value. How much had he heard? Why had he been lurking just outside of the door? There had been no way of him knowing that Sybill Trelawney would actually be able to make a prediction of any kind. After all, only moments before, Albus had thought she was just as much a fraud as he had ever seen. Clearly he had been proven wrong. But what of Severus Snape? Despite the cryptic nature of the prophecy, it was not the sort of thing one would want shared to Voldemort… Especially when it sought his destruction, and the means to end his reign of terror upon the Wizarding World. He had seen something in those dark eyes when briefly locked with his blue ones. He was yet to know for certain what it actually was, but something led him to believe that this suspected Death Eater, that this servant of the Dark Lord, might actually prove valuable to their cause. He had to find him before it was too late- Presuming he had not already Aparated into the night to the side of his master, and shared the portion of the prophecy that he had learned. Sybill Trelawney collapsed into one of the worn chairs that she had set aside for her interview with her former Headmaster, looking utterly spent and exhausted from what had just occurred. One glance told him that she had no recollection of what it was that she had actually divulged… Perhaps not even realizing that she had even made a true and real prediction at all. She would need protection, especially if word was to get out that she shared some of the same talents as those of her ancestress. Much to his disdain, it would appear that the Divination program would have to continue at Hogwarts, at least a little while longer. Chapter End Notes Dumbledore and Sev talk in the next chapter... How will it go? Also, you will notice that the full prophecy is somewhat different than in the original canon. This is, of course, intentional. Thank you all again for such wonderful support! I love the kudos and comments more than I can possibly say! :) Song of choice: About_A_Girl_-_Nirvana ***** Prophecy: Part III ***** Chapter Summary The aftermath of a very telling event. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “What is now proved was once only imagined.” -William Blake [ice] Severus returned to the dilapidated house on the outskirts of Hogsmeade with a decisive ‘pop’ from his Aparating. Once inside he wasted no time in throwing a long abandoned dining chair against one of the molded walls, breaking it into multiple pieces. Angry was not even a close enough emotion to describing the boiling rage that had built inside of him. “God damn it all!” he shouted, punching the same wall previously bashed with the chair. How would he be able to proceed with this new bit of knowledge…? It was precisely what Voldemort had sought he learn! He hadn’t intended upon following so completely through with the Dark Lord’s requests- He had hoped to speak with Albus Dumbledore and find a way out! Yet here he was, hopelessly stuck. He had been ejected from The Hog’s Head Inn; unable to utter even a single syllable to his former Headmaster. To make matters worse, it had appeared that he had been eavesdropping- Not entirely untrue, though not with the intention of sharing his findings to the Dark Lord. They would never believe him. He was a known Death Eater, branded with the Dark Mark, the loathsome symbol that did nothing but pledge his loyalty to the murderous and rebellious cause. He was one of the three lieutenants- A detail he was certain remained a secret known only to Lily. What would he do? How could he proceed from this? The pecking beak upon the nearby window brought about a reality check, and he strode to the waiting owl and untied the parchment rolled at its ankle. It flew off immediately, certainly seeking shelter from the blizzard that continued to rage. You will return to The Hog’s Head Inn. Be there in one hour. -A.P.W.B.D. Severus torched the document immediately, reducing the parchment to blackened dust. He felt dread and hope merging within his stomach while he pondered the potential outcome of the meeting, and what his future might have in store. =============================================================================== Upon returning to The Hog’s Head Inn, Severus found the door unlatched, and once again pushed his way inside. The once crowded barroom was now empty, all except for the same grey-bearded man who had thrown him from the premises earlier, and then Albus Dumbledore. The three men stared at each other for a long while, none of them willing themselves to be the first to speak. Just as Severus was about to turn and leave, certain he had misjudged the meaning behind the short note delivered earlier, his former Headmaster rose to his feet and crossed the space to stand before him. “We must speak,” Albus told him, blue eyes searching over the younger man’s features, “I fear there is much we both need say, and we must attempt to trust one another, no matter how difficult that may be.” “Bloody Death Eater…” Aberforth grumbled with quiet dislike. Severus shot him a glare that would have caused any of the lower ranking Death Eaters to quiver in fear, then nodded his agreement to the familiar Dumbledore, and followed him to the back apartment of the Inn. They climbed another staircase to a humble sitting room that was unremarkable all except for the large portrait of a young blonde girl wearing all blue, and holding onto a favorite book. Her eyes were sweet, but vacant in their stare, her pink lips slightly turned upward in a very ‘Mona Lisa’ styled smile. After another awkward moment of silent questioning between them, Albus slowly motioned that his former pupil should take a seat in the chair opposite him. “I don’t claim to understand the reason for your crouching outside of Sybill Trelawney’s room earlier this evening,” he began, stroking his long white beard, “Perhaps that is where we should begin…? It has been a few years since we last crossed paths, Severus. I see that time has changed you in many ways.” “You know nothing about me.” “Perhaps,” Dumbledore continued, eyes once again meeting with Severus’ dark ones, “However, I know the rumors, and I know that you’ve been watching my movements quite carefully on each of my visits to Hogsmeade. I saw you the last time, outside of The Three Broomsticks Inn… That is, I had suspected it was you- Though any doubts I may have had were quickly diminished after this evening’s events.” Severus clenched his jaw tightly, fighting the urge to grind his teeth. He had known that tailing a wizard so great as Albus Dumbledore would prove exceedingly difficult, though he had thought he had managed to take every precaution at not being found out. On all of his other missions for the Dark Lord, he had never so much as left a trace of evidence, or a clue as to his identity. This was something new, and he felt an undeniable sense of unease. Also, if Dumbledore had known, as he said he had, then why hadn’t he approached him? Why hadn’t he hexed him there in the street and had him hauled away to Azkaban? “Why were you lurking outside of that room?” Dumbledore repeated, long fingers folded together upon his lap. “It wasn’t like that- “ “Like hell it wasn't…” Aberforth grumbled, leaning upon the doorframe of the room, arms initially crossed over his chest, and then taking a long, deep swig from a bottle in one hand. Albus turned to face his brother, an indescribable expression upon his face. That was, he showed no sign of outward emotion or thoughts, it was all his eyes- The same eyes shared by the younger man who owned and managed this establishment. Aberforth grumbled something more under his breath, and turned to leave, allowing the two men their privacy for the duration of their conversation. “You were saying…?” Albus prompted his former student, returning his full focus to the young man seated before him. Severus cleared his throat, eyes trained upon the powerful wizard before him, “I didn’t seek to eavesdrop on any conversation you were tangled up in. I needed to speak with you, and I sought to find you, and then wait until you had finished any business you had been attending to. I don’t deny that I overheard you tell Madam Rosmerta about meeting someone for the vacant Divinations post; that’s precisely how I knew where you would be.” He paused briefly, voice steady with honesty, “When I was discovered, it was not as I had planned.” “I see.” His remark was irksome, but Severus breathed through his irritation, repeating himself, “I only wished to speak with you, sir. I could very easily have ignored your request if that wasn’t my intention to begin with… Why would I be sitting here with you now, if all I had wanted was to listen in on your conversation, and hear about some prediction made by a witch that has obviously been faking her abilities prior to that, somewhat unfortunate, yet inevitable moment in time?” “That is the question of the hour, isn’t it?” Dumbledore nodded, “Perhaps I asked you here to understand the details surrounding your surveillance of me these past few weeks-?” “It’s been closer to a month,” Severus interjected, followed by a pointed, “Sir.” “Has it, now?” Severus fought the growing sensation to roll his eyes at the man seated opposite him. Was he just giving him the benefit of the doubt, or had he truly not noticed Severus’ presence until that moment two weeks ago? If so, his movements and techniques had not been entirely terrible after all. It wasn’t much, but it did give him a little sense of pride knowing that he had, if only for a little while, managed in outmaneuvering one of the greatest wizards of all time. After a few moments, his attention snapped to the portrait of the young girl that hung on the wall between them. She was pretty, though there was something tragically sad about her that he couldn’t quite put his finger on. “My sister,” Albus said after a short while, his gaze also fixed upon the portrait, his voice quiet and reflecting a sense of melancholy, “Her name was Ariana.” Despite a building curiosity, Severus nodded his understanding of the relation, “She was very pretty, sir.” A small smile spread across the aged man’s lips, “Yes she was,” he took a deep breath, “Are the rumors about your allegiance to the Dark Lord true?” Severus stiffened slightly in his seat, though pulled up the sleeve of his left arm in response. The Dark Mark stood out upon his pale skin in its unyielding onyx ink. He stared at the symbol in quiet discomfort, the once pride garnered from loyalty to his master, as well as the fear instilled in so many people, having worn off. Dumbledore’s stare was fixed upon the brand etched into the young man’s skin, face not revealing any indication as to what his innermost thoughts might reflect. “For how long?” “Since shortly after leaving Hogwarts.” “So you followed through with the plans your little band of Slytherin friends had agreed upon, then…” he said bitterly, “Such a waste.” Severus dropped the sleeve back into place, concealing the tattoo once more from sight, “I couldn’t agree more.” His words caused a visible change in his former Headmaster, the old man’s startling blue eyes fixed upon Severus’ dark ones. There was questioning there, and disbelief. How would they proceed now? “Sir,” Severus began, straightening some in his seat, “I am prepared to share much with you… More than you possibly would expect, or even yet know yourself. Life has thrown an interesting curve in my path… A twist which requires my honesty, and my willingness to seek out what’s truly right. Though it has not been an easy conclusion to reach- Brought about from many late nights alone with my thoughts, and dreams of what my future might entail… I have finally come to my conclusion.” “Which is?” “I wish to inform on the dealings of the Death Eaters and innermost workings of You-Know-Who… Something that I believe could prove most valuable to yourself, as leader of the Order of the Phoenix.” Albus Dumbledore eyed him with surprise and suspicion at his claims regarding his leadership of the opposing force to Lord Voldemort’s rebel cause, “Why would you presume that I have ties to that organization?” A smirk spread over his lips, “A little birdie told me.” “I’m sure I don’t know what you’re talking about- “ “Oh, I think you do,” Severus interrupted, “If there is any question as to my motivations for seeking you out that still ring loudly within your ears, I’m quite sure that said birdie, would have no problem in vouching for my honesty upon the subject.” The Headmaster threw up his hands in a quiet sign of confusion, “I am quite certain that there is no one within my circle of association that has open contact with Death Eater’s, such as yourself, on a regular basis… Certainly not on friendly terms.” Severus was quiet for a moment, considering how to best proceed. There was no question that the divulgence of his confession was not enough to convince the wise wizard before him. Though certainly intrigued by the information that Severus had provided so far, Albus Dumbledore needed more to go on- Convincing him wholeheartedly would not be an immediate feat. He had not wanted to reveal too much; hoping that it might be a task accomplished on his own, but that was proving more and more unlikely as their interaction continued. “Mister Snape,” Dumbledore pressed, “I believe it is, as they say, ‘your move.’” “Have you noticed the absence of anyone within your inner circle recently?” Severus questioned slowly, “Someone who’s missing presence may have caused slight alarm due to a number of factors, but who might have let slip that they had been traveling alone on an unexpected holiday?” A twinkle in the old man’s eyes led Severus to understand that a realization had set in. Leaning back in his chair, Severus interlaced the fingers of his hands, dropping them into his lap, head held high, “Your move, sir.” Chapter End Notes What now Dumbledore?! BOOM! Such a great 'drops mic' moment. ;) Haha. Song for this chapter: Paint_It_Black_-_Ramin_Djawadi ***** Enter the Doe ***** Chapter Summary The aftermath of Bellatrix Lestrange's uncomfortable encounter on the Longbottom's doorstep, building to the present timeline. Chapter Notes There is a quotation from this fifteenth chapter taken directly from the brilliant William Shakespeare in his famous play, Julius Caesar. See the end of the chapter for more notes “One man to live in pleasure and wealth, whiles all other weap and smart for it, that is the part not of a king, but of a jailor.” -Thomas More [doe] The presence of Bellatrix Lestrange had brought about an immediate change in Frank Longbottom. Years of being an Auror led him to hold a strong deposition in the face of unsettling situations- The same could be said for his wife, Alice. However, this was something entirely different, and absolutely rattling for the pair. How had the Death Eaters learned of their address? Had they been watched and tailed by the loyal supporters of the Dark Lord? And if so… For how long? To make matters all the more unsettling, Bellatrix had seemed too aware of a few pointed details. Alice’s absence from her post in the Auror’s Office was something of common knowledge, but unless privy to files or personal knowledge, her pregnancy had not been something regularly discussed. The fact that she knew of Lily’s presence in their household had been another thing altogether… A fact only privy to members within the Order of the Phoenix. Was it because of her Legilimency, or more devious-? Was there possibly a traitorous source of information being fed to the Death Eaters? To Lord Voldemort himself? Was there a rat within the ranks of the Order of the Phoenix? Frank had wasted no time in organizing things immediately following his denial of Bellatrix’s proposal. Her words had cut both women deeply, if they had also effected Frank in some way, he didn’t show it. “Watch your backs, Longbottom’s… We will seek you out when you least expect it. That goes double for the filthy Mudblood you keep in your company! I do love a good game of Hide and Seek…” He had insisted upon them hurrying to fetch any necessary items from the house- They would need to leave immediately. While Alice rushed into the master bedroom, Lily found herself firmly rooted to the spot, unable to move. Frank had kindly pressed her shoulder with a reassuring hand, motioning that she follow his wife’s lead. When Alice reappeared in the entryway, she quickly wrapped her cloak around her, staring at her best friend with mounting unease. “Lily, you must hurry,” Frank told her, “We can’t afford to linger if they mean to act upon their threats.” “I’m not going.” “What?!” Alice gasped, eyes widening, “What are you talking about?!” “Lily,” Frank said slowly, “My parents won’t mind you coming with us; I assure you that there is more than enough room.” “It’s not that…” Alice went to her best friend, hands taking hold of her just above her elbows, “Stop this! You’re coming with us! You heard her- “ “I couldn’t possibly impose,” Lily interrupted, “I understand the danger, and I don’t intend to put myself at risk. But it’s late, and you’ll both need someone to bring you the things that you’ve left behind in your haste to leave. I don’t qualm you for fleeing- I would do the same if it meant protecting my family, but I doubt they will seek to act on such threats immediately… I could be wrong, and if I am, then I will have clearly made a stupid err in judgment. But you must go without me. I promise to follow you when things have settled down some.” “Frank-?!” Alice sputtered, tears streaming from her eyes, desperate for him to do something in the way of dissuading her from the decision she had seemingly set her mind upon. “Lily, please…” She shook her head, “Go.” “I will send someone to stay here with you once we arrive at my parents’ home,” he told her firmly, “You may insist upon remaining here for the time being, but I will not see you left alone for the dogs. Expect someone before dawn. And make certain to know of their identity before allowing them entrance.” With a muffled wail from Alice, Frank then opened the front door, arms encircling his wife, and with a ‘pop’ they both had vanished into the darkness. Lily was quick to close and bar the door, reenchanting the heavy wood with the usual protective spells, and then sinking to the floor, head in her hands. It had been less than an hour later when a knock rapped lightly upon the door she was still sitting before. She rose to her feet, ear pressed to the heavy wood, waiting. “Lily…? It’s Remus…” “Prove it.” “We were Prefects together,” the voice began, “Your sister’s name is Petunia, you were born and raised in Cokeworth. My Patronus is a wolf… Yours is a doe. Your husband possesses a remarkable garment that was regularly used by himself and his three Marauder’s during our tenure at Hogwarts…” Lily unlatched the door, allowing the visitor admittance to the residence, quickly shutting it once he had crossed the threshold. Gently motioning her aside, the tall and thin man whispered a number of incantations upon the door before turning to face her. He had thin scars across his face, green eyes, and dirty-blonde hair. He did not remove his cloak, merely stood with eyes searching her, waiting for her to speak. “I’m so grateful Frank sent for you and not James.” Remus snorted, a smiled spreading kindly over his lips as he took Lily firmly by the shoulders, “Why did you insist upon such madness in staying here? Augusta would have been perfectly fine with your addition to their home… Lily, you have to understand the risk in remaining behind.” She nodded, diverting her eyes from his, “I don’t wish to put anyone at risk… I just feel as though it was in some way my fault for Bellatrix coming here… Not directly, obviously. But as she said, I am the ‘filthy Mudblood’ that they would seek before pursuing Frank and Alice.” “Lily- “ “You know it as much as I do, Remus,” she laughed, the sound full of sadness. He pulled her in for an embrace, “Enough. She’s insane. You know that just as much as the rest of us do. You were one of the smartest people in our year, and I know you better than that.” “I would rather be their target than Frank or Alice,” Lily told him, voice muffled against the fabric of his cloak, “I wouldn’t have been able to live with myself if the Death Eaters had followed through with their threats and robbed my best friend of her child and life.” Remus’ grip tightened briefly around her, clearly unaware of most of the details surrounding the unexpected encounter. Sensing his curiosity, and knowing full well that he wouldn’t abandon her or try and force her to leave the house before she was ready, Lily led him into the back sitting room and told him everything. =============================================================================== Remus Lupin remained in Lily’s company for the duration of her stay at the Longbottom’s abandoned house. Though always returning in the evenings, he was frequently absent during the daytime, leaving Lily ample time alone with her thoughts. She had been in contact with Frank and Alice since their hasty retreat, though remained undecided when it came to joining them. They were adamant that she join them; unwavering in their beliefs that she was not a burden to their safety. How could they be so sure? Guilt plagued Lily at every turn. When it wasn’t because of her blood-status being a danger to her dearest friends, it was an ache deep within her heart regarding Severus. She had no idea where he was, what he was doing, or if he was alive or dead. Did he think about her as often as she did him? She was almost certain that he did, but that didn’t make their forced separation any easier. She longed to be with him again- To tell him of Bellatrix’s rattling threats. Had he known that she would come? If so, why hadn’t he warned her? Would he be able to tell her whether or not the threats were, in fact, idle? Meant only to sow fear in the hearts of those who refused to join the Dark Lord’s side? She had a feeling that they wouldn’t be. One thing stood out to her still… Bellatrix seemingly had no knowledge of hers and the Longbottom’s allegiance to the Order of the Phoenix. It had seemed much the same when Rabastan Lestrange had approached, and attempted to recruit Sirius Black. Was it a mere coincidence, or something more sinister? And, had anyone else been targeted for attempted recruitment? Meetings had been abandoned briefly with the unexpected resettling of Frank and Alice. Remus had assured Lily that an owl had been sent to Dumbledore, as well as other methods of communication, in order to inform him of the incident. Strangely, Albus Dumbledore had remained seemingly silent on the matter, leaving the Order members in a helpless limbo. It was late one night in February that his silence would finally come to an end; an unexpected knocking sounded upon the once front door of Frank and Alice Longbottom’s home. Remus had left Lily alone in the sitting room while checking the identity of the unannounced presence. When he returned, he was accompanied by an older man with a salt and pepper grey beard, and vibrant blue eyes. She had seen him only a few times before, and knew him for Albus Dumbledore’s younger brother, Aberforth. “I’m to have you join me,” the visitor told her, “Albus sent me.” Lily felt her mouth go dry as she stared at the man before her, opening her mouth in an attempt to question. “We don’t have time,” Aberforth told her gruffly. Lily looked at Remus and he shrugged, “Probably just has to do with all of this business surrounding Bellatrix.” She looked back to Aberforth and he grumbled something under his breath in irritation at the delay, “Can’t say either way- You coming or not?” “It would seem I don’t have much of a choice.” “I’ll be here when you come back,” Remus told her with his attempt at a reassuring smile. With that, Lily rose and led the way to the entry, where she donned her black traveling cloak, and then led the way outside. Aberforth roughly offered his left arm to her, the gesture more reminiscent of practicality than chivalry. Unspoken nervousness betrayed Lily as she gently took his arm with trembling fingers. He shot her a look of surprise, his eyes softening slightly. It wasn’t much, but it helped ease her racing mind just slightly, as they vanished with a ‘pop’ into the darkness of the night. When they stopped spinning and lurching through the confines of time and space, Lily found herself standing in almost knee-deep snow, a thunderous flurry of wind and snow whipping violently all around her. The firm pressure of Aberforth’s large hand upon her arm, and the shadow of his looming frame reminded her that she was not alone, and he made to lead her through the swirling blackness of their disorientating surroundings. Just as she could barely feel her fingers or her toes, she found herself pulled inside of a building, the door barred behind her. Hanging his cloak upon an empty hook, he motioned roughly for Lily to hand him hers as well. His beard and hair were encrusted with the ice and snow from the raging blizzard, and he motioned wordlessly for her to warm herself by the fire. She did so without speaking, her blood immediately thawing and resuming its flow through her veins. He joined her not long after, squeezing and rubbing is large hands against the sudden, and drastic change in temperature. Lily could feel the chill leaving her- The snow thawing from places upon her hair, replaced with a cool dampness that dried rapidly against the heat of the fire. “Hogsmeade.” It was not a question, and the sound of her voice in the emptiness of the Inn seemed odd and foreign. Aberforth grunted, nodding, “My place; Hog’s Head.” She stared into the fire, the dancing flames all shades of red, orange, and yellow. It was entrancing and hypnotic, her mind racing with countless questions. She was certain that they would be answered soon enough. “Albus is up in the back,” he told her at last, “Best I show you the way.” Without further banter between the pair, Aberforth strode behind the bar, motioning that Lily follow, and then gestured to the door set back into the shadows. “Thank you,” Lily told him, and then slipped out of sight. The stairs were dimly lit, much like the barroom, and she climbed them with a building sense of unease and curiosity, the light at the top growing more and more bright with each step she took. At the top she straightened her robes, smoothing the front with the palms of both hands. She then straightened to her full height and knocked upon the slightly ajar door. “Please enter, Mrs. Potter,” the familiar voice of her Headmaster sounded, though Lily cringed slightly at the mention of her ex-husband’s name. She pushed the door aside and was momentarily frozen in place. Her former Headmaster was seated in a high-back armchair beside a low-burning fire, his blue eyes trained upon her from behind his iconic half-moon spectacles. His hands were folded in his lap, his long beard white and standing out in contrast to the deep purple of his robes. As intimidating a presence as the older man always was, his authority unmistakable, there was no sign of malice or displeasure in his lined features. A movement from the nearby shadows drew Lily’s attention from this familiar figure, the leader of the Order of the Phoenix. She felt her heart nearly stop at the sight of who also waited in the upstairs room, tall and trim, black robes billowing about his lithe frame, shoulder-length jet-black hair, and deep, dark eyes. Forgetting her summons of Albus Dumbledore altogether, she crossed the space that separated her from her lover, arms and hands reaching up to his neck and pulling his lips down in a crushing kiss upon her own. “Well, well…” Dumbledore chuckled, “I suppose that settles any doubts I may have had in regards to the relationship between the two of you.” Lily’s kiss was filled with want, pain, confusion, and so many other emotions. But most of all a relief to see the man she loved alive, and seemingly well. Severus had been much more reserved in his response to her amorous greeting, hands lightly encircling her, though breaking away before things became less than chaste. The corners of his mouth lifted just slightly in a subtle show of his happiness of being reunited with her, his eyes shimmering with mutual want, and the promise of ardor and passions to come. “I didn’t know what to expect when Aberforth told me that you wanted to see me,” she said to her former Headmaster, cheeks flushed from her kiss with Severus. “I fear there is much to discuss,” he told her, “This night has been an evening of some very telling information, as well as the details surrounding the events that have recently involved the Longbottom’s and yourself.” Severus frowned, eyes searching Lily. “I can tell you later…” she told him quietly. “Mister Snape, would you please excuse us for a few moments?” Dumbledore inquired, “I would like to speak with Mrs. Potter alone.” Severus pondered the request for a moment, and then nodded firmly. He turned to Lily just before leaving, and took one of her hands in his, bringing it up and planting a light kiss to her knuckles. She smiled, and his eyes glittered with mutual delight in having been reunited with her. He then made his way out of the room and closed the door with a firm ‘click’ behind him. “Would you sit with me?” Dumbledore asked when the sound of Severus’ footsteps had faded. She nodded, joining him in the armchair opposite situated opposite, “Thank you, sir.” “Lily, I’m not sure where to begin…” He paused, pressing his fingertips together, “What-? Umm… Well, we all know of your separation from James- “ “Divorce,” she interrupted. Dumbledore concealed his surprise well, though there was no mistaking the change in his air, “Pardon me, my dear, but for how long? Since you left Godric’s Hollow?” She nodded, “I don’t believe the details are worth repeating, but it was in my best interest to leave a marriage that had no hope in ever bringing me the sort of happiness or fulfillment that I deserved.” “I do not have judgment,” he told her, palm raised, “I am certain that you had your reasons, though I do not seek to conceal my surprise at finding out this detail. James has remained rather tight-lipped upon the subject, as I am sure you have noticed.” “It’s not my business to tell him how he should cope with such a life change.” “Of course.” “How much has Severus told you?” “Enough,” he shrugged, “Lily, what makes you believe that he actually has changed? That the information that you have shared with him, no matter how trivial in nature, he has not passed directly to the Dark Lord himself? It concerns me that he knew of my involvement with the Order of the Phoenix… Something I know the members to only be privy to.” She felt a sudden drop of deep unease fill her stomach, guilt leaving a bitter taste in her mouth, “Sir, I never wished to endanger anyone… Or to play a dangerous game when it came to balancing my emotions and my allegiances. I never told Severus a thing until I was aware of where his heart truly lay. I promise you that. I have no reason to believe he is using me or planning to betray me to You-Know-Who. If he had wanted to, I am certain that he already would have.” Albus Dumbledore studied her in silence for some time, clearly weighing her words and judging for himself what his next move would be. “You’re right, he could have killed you, and most likely would have been dealt with in much the same manner for consorting with you under the nose of the Dark Lord, had he or any of the lieutenants or Death Eaters been made aware of your tryst. You have put yourself at a very great risk- A suicide mission, really. It’s rather a miracle that you have made it this far unscathed… The both of you. It’s a curious thing, though- Severus Snape sought me out whilst still following through with his orders from the Dark Lord. At least that’s what he tells me. I sense no treachery within him; he has seemed as sincere and level-headed an individual as the boy I remember from his days at Hogwarts.” “I assure you that I have noticed the same thing myself.” He smiled, “Lily, you were one of the brightest minds Hogwarts has ever seen, certainly within your year. I have always prided your courage and sense of right and wrong. I believe you. I believe that you and Severus somehow rediscovered each other after so many obstacles stood in your way. As much as I will always disagree with his decision to join with the Death Eaters after leaving Hogwarts, I also know him to not change his stubborn tendencies at the drop of a hat. The two of you were close for a very long time, and the comradery of a Gryffindor and Slytherin is not something often unnoticed by the faculty of such an institution as Hogwarts. If anyone would know him for truth, it would be you, I am certain… And Lily, I have no reason to not trust in your judgment or sense of character. I could see right away that beneath the hard façade that Mister Snape wears so well, that he already feels shame for his past deeds. I don’t doubt that he will look upon the Dark Mark with dread and disgust in the years that follow.” “What do we do now, sir?” “We forge a plan,” he said simply, “A way forward that might prove an end to this madness and a return to peace and normalcy for everyone, no matter their blood-status.” “And what of Bellatrix Lestrange?” “Her presence, as well as that of Rastaban’s with Sirius Black, alarms me greatly,” he admitted, “I have not inquired to Severus about the extent of his knowledge on such details… However, I do feel as though it is necessary to find out.” “Does this mean that you will accept him? That you will help protect him when he defects?” Albus Dumbledore’s expression changed to the stony one from earlier, not angry, though not revealing of more than he wished to make evident. “Sir…?” “Yes, Lily?” “You’re planning on using him, aren’t you?” she whispered, “You want him to spy on the Dark Lord and the Death Eaters… To reveal whatever innermost workings he can.” Selecting his words carefully, “It is an opportunity that doesn’t present itself every day… I feel as though we would be foolish to not utilize him for the extent of his knowledge and abilities to infiltrate their ranks.” “He could be killed!” “Which is precisely what will happen if we don’t act,” he told her, “If my suspicions are correct, Lily… Especially after what I learned today, and Severus in part himself, we have a long road ahead of us in removing the Dark Lord from his throne of power. It will not be an easy one… It is daunting to even I, but there is no other way. If we sit by and do nothing, we will die. And if we fight without being fully prepared, or aware of the extent of the Dark Arts which he may have utilized in preserving his own place in our magical world, we are also doomed.” “So there is no other way?” she questioned softly, head bowed in sadness, “I have finally been reunited with the only person I have ever truly loved with all of my heart, and I must be willing to let them go-? To watch them die when I know that they love me just as much in return?” “’It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves,’” he quoted, “Everyone has a choice, including both you and Severus Snape. We must all weigh what is right and what is wrong… There is a role in this that we all must play. Lily, you must hold onto your feelings for each other, for they are a rare gift. And you must learn to trust in the unknown; to have faith in his abilities, and know that he must make a decision for what is right in his own being. Love is not easy. It is challenging and painful, and heartbreaking. But it is also beautiful and fulfilling, and perfect when you find the person whose soul is the parallel to your own.” Lily wiped her eyes, knowing the truth of the aged man’s words. She breathed deeply, meeting his eyes and found herself nodding slowly. He was right… There would be no future for anyone if Voldemort had his way. “Now,” Dumbledore continued, “Should we allow for Mister Snape to join us once again?” Chapter End Notes We're getting into some heavy plot, y'all. I hope everyone is still enjoying the story as much as I am. And can I just say Dumbledore's second to last paragraph... Wowza. Pulled my heartstrings. ♡ Also, I thought that Remus was the best choice for staying with Lily, because he wasn't bound to be annoying and overly pressing about the "James issue" as Sirius might have been. :):):) Song: Sweet_Little_Lies_-_Michael_Franti_&_Spearhead ***** Secrets & Spies ***** Chapter Summary An alliance is forged, and a secret plan formed. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “You only live twice: Once when you are born, and once when you look death in the face.” -Ian Fleming [lily] While Lily and Dumbledore spoke together in the upstairs sitting room, Severus made his way downstairs to the deserted barroom. The coals burned in a low red glow from the fireplace, Aberforth staring into the dimness, a pipe held firmly between his teeth. He did not turn around or show any sign of awareness to Severus’ presence, the smoke encircling his head. Severus paused behind the bar, uncertain of how to proceed, unwilling to risk startling the abrasive younger brother of his former Headmaster. “Kicked you out already, Death Eater?” Severus squeezed his fingers tightly into a fist at his side. “Ain’t nothing in my place comes free,” Aberforth continued, nearly spitting out the last words with obvious revulsion, “Especially to the filthy likes aligning themselves with You-Know-Who.” Hold your tongue, Severus. Aberforth turned to face the younger man, eyes narrowed with dislike. He said nothing, though his look alone spoke mountains. They remained that way, eyes locked in a mutual distrust and quiet irritation at the presence of the other. After what seemed like an eternity, the even sound of Albus Dumbledore’s voice called down the stairs, beckoning for Severus to return to the small upstairs room, “You may rejoin us, Mister Snape.” When Severus returned to the room occupied by Lily and their former Headmaster, there was undoubtedly an air of discomfort about the space. Lily looked melancholy, whilst Albus Dumbledore was his usual, unreadable self. He raised an eyebrow in question, eyes moving from the Gryffindor to the Slytherin. With a wave of his wand, he conjured another armchair out of thin air, “Won’t you have a seat?” Slowly, the dark-haired man lowered himself into the chair located between Lily and their aged Headmaster, waiting. “Mister Snape,” Dumbledore began, “I will not deny that the circumstances surrounding our recent communication have certainly been unexpected. I am sure that you are aware that it is not every day that a known member of the Death Eaters seeks a new existence…” “I presume that Lily has helped with some of your suspicions and questions surrounding my intent on following through with such tactics?” “Sev- “ He looked at her, his expression as much unreadable as the aged man beside him. “Mrs. Potter has left nothing to question in regards to your loyalty or devotion,” Dumbledore spoke evenly, ignoring Lily’s cringe at her ex-husband’s surname, “I can only hope that your affections are equally shared when it comes to her… She risks much, and certainly you are aware of such.” Severus opened his mouth angrily to retort, but Dumbledore continued before he was able to speak, “You both risk more than many would, though I can’t say that I’m entirely surprised. As I expressed to Lily in your absence, the two of you were close for a very long time- It is not something that has been overlooked by myself, or others throughout the years. You were both very talented in your tenure at Hogwarts, certainly intelligent enough to excel in your studies and keep, for the most part, out of trouble.” He looked at Severus specifically, “It takes great courage to admit when you have realized the error of your ways, and a stronger man yet, to seek to make amends. I may not agree with your decision to have joined the Death Eaters. I can’t claim that many will ever truly understand what compelled you to do such- However, a part of me cannot deny the memory of a younger version of this old man who sits before you… I was a man who could have easily fallen down that same road which seemingly bewitched you, a road filled with the promises of a great power that the Dark Arts can offer.” Severus was surprised, an odd expression coming over his face at the personal revelation of the great wizard known for the famous duel with Gellert Grindelwald. A duel where the power of goodness won over evil darkness. Could he have heard correctly? This man known for his good deeds had once nearly been tempted in much the same way as himself? “Lily vouches for your character, and that is enough for me,” Dumbledore concluded, “I believe that you seek a redemption of sorts for your past misdeeds.” Unable to find the words he wished to speak in that moment, Severus swallowed, nodding pointedly, “Thank you, sir.” “Lily, does anyone apart from Frank and Alice know of your divorce to James?” Dumbledore inquired, turning his focus to the redheaded female before him. “Not that I’m aware of, sir.” “Good. We must do well to keep it that way.” Severus frowned, clearly less than amused. “Allow for me take care of James,” their former Headmaster continued, “I will make certain that he understands the importance of continuing in his silence on the subject. If anyone questions you directly, I believe it would be in your best interest to tell them that the two of you are ‘working through your differences,’ and have a renewed understanding for the ‘value of your marriage from time spent apart.’” “Sir-?” Severus bit out, his displeasure obvious. “It will only do to keep up appearances,” he explained with a casual wave of the hand, “As uncomfortable as it may prove, I believe that it will be in the best interest for members of the Order of the Phoenix to believe as though everything is continuing to go ahead according to plan. Lily’s marriage- “ “Former marriage,” she corrected, blushing deeply, eyes diverting quickly to Severus and then back. “… Is of common knowledge amongst our numbers, and I fear that revealing the truth may only sow familiar decent that was common in your formative years at Hogwarts.” James Potter and the Marauders. “Sir,” Severus pressed, “Forgive me, but how will your informing Potter of the truth make matters any different?” The glimmer of a smirk crossed the aged man’s lips, “I assure you both that James will not be of any concern. He may be displeased- Assuredly, in fact. However, he will hold his tongue and mind his manners when it counts, without betraying the truth of the matter amongst our ranks.” “And why must it be a secret?” “He has plans for the both of us,” Lily said quietly, her voice sounding foreign even to her own ears. “Aye, I do,” Dumbledore nodded, tapping his fingertips together in thought as he waited for Severus. The younger man narrowed his eyes, clearly suspicious of what his former Headmaster had in store. Lily reached for his arm, her hand gently pressing just below his elbow. Severus looked at her, eyes studying her closely for a moment, then breathed a quiet sigh as he tipped his head in a gesture meant for Albus Dumbledore to continue. “I wish for you to tell your Master of what you heard earlier this evening.” Lily’s expression was one of complete confusion, considering she did not know the details of the prophecy uttered by Sybill Trelawney only a few hours before. Albus Dumbledore did not expect for Severus to keep it a secret from her, the details of said prediction, however, their time was limited, and he did not seek to repeat the fateful words at that precise moment in time. Clenching his jaw tightly, lost in thought for a moment, Severus finally nodded, “If it’s what you wish… As long as it is a benefit for both the good of the Ministry and the Order.” “It is.” “Consider it done.” “Lily,” Dumbledore said, turning to her again, “I wish for you to stay here until I send word that you may return to your former home in Godric’s Hollow.” “But-!” He held up a hand to silence her, “You must trust me, my dear. It will not be permanent, but it must be the case for now. I need your word that you will keep up appearances and try to be cordial for the benefit of the Order as a whole. You’re stubborn,” he chuckled, “But you must understand that I do not plan on keeping the two of you apart,” he paused, adding an amused, “As if I could.” Lily closed her eyes, biting her lower lip in frustration, though eventually nodded her understanding. “This is only the first step,” he told them, “And I will not have the Order kept long unaware of your assistance to our cause, Mister Snape. It will all be revealed in time; it has only yet to be made apparent when that moment will be.” “What do you wish of me in the meantime?” Severus questioned. “To continue in your usual duties for the Dark Lord. I only wish that you commit much to memory, and proceeding as necessary. You are to be our eyes and ears… A difficult undertaking, to be certain, though of immense value.” “When do you wish for him to go?” Lily asked quietly, both men turning to look at her. Dumbledore’s vibrant blue eyes were kind as he looked upon his former Head Girl, “I was hoping by first light… That should give you at least a little time together.” =============================================================================== Something was different between them, as Lily and Severus retired to their vacant room at the Inn. Things had changed in such a way that had only formerly seemed a distant hope. Despite the joy that they both, there was also an underlying sense of dread. Dumbledore had accepted Severus, despite any initial misgivings, but in his usual cryptic way, he had also left much to question. The room was dimly illuminated from one antique lamp, the yellow light casting a hazy glow throughout the small space. It wasn’t much- Aged wallpaper and an old bed that had clearly seen better days. Everything was in need of an update, though the furnishings were hardly of much consequence. They would only have a few stolen hours together at most before Severus would need to resume his duties- Obligations of high importance to both Lord Voldemort and Albus Dumbledore. “I’m not sure what I think about all of this,” Lily said at last, her voice sounding hollow. “What do you mean?” “Just… Everything,” she sighed, sitting upon the foot of the bed, “I didn’t know what to expect when he called me here! Certainly not that I would be met with you…” she met his eyes, “Not that I’m unhappy to see you, it’s just… Unexpected.” “I wasn’t sure when the moment would arise,” he told her, sitting alongside her on the bed, “But I had no other option given the circumstances.” “And so you mentioned me.” “I attempted to leave you out of it for as long as possible, but I was given no other choice when it became apparent that he would not trust the word of a suddenly repentant Death Eater alone.” “I’m not angry,” she told him, “I was just surprised.” “It has been quite the day for surprises.” “Longer for me, I’m afraid,” she sighed, “Did Dumbledore tell you about the recent appearances of various Death Eaters surrounding a recruitment upheaval for the Dark Lord?” He shook his head, his dark eyes intently focused upon her green ones. “It all began with Rabastan Lestrange approaching a member of the Order one evening a few weeks back. I’m not certain how many of our numbers are being targeted, whether incidental or otherwise, but there was an unexpected and rather unsettling visit at the place where I was staying about a week ago.” Severus took hold of her slightly quivering hand, raising it to his face and lightly placing a kiss upon each fingertip in turn, “Who was it?” “Bellatrix Lestrange.” “You realize that she is hardly of stable mind,” he stated slowly, “Though I do not doubt she was successful in planting seeds of fear in her wake. She has always been good at frightening others and using her insanity to shatter the comfort of those she comes into contact with. When the Dark Lord bestowed upon me this mission- To follow and view the movements of Albus Dumbledore, he also sent his other two lieutenants forward with dark assignments of their own. Of this I have already explained to our former Headmaster, but Lucius was tasked with resuming his watchfulness over the Minister of Magic and the inner workings and movements of the Ministry itself. Bellatrix was entrusted with recruitment to our cause… A special list outfitted with the most sought after minds and talented witches and wizards in current existence.” “But how did she know where to find us?” He shrugged, “We may be the inner circle, but where the Dark Lord finds his information, and how he seeks to utilize it is his own knowledge entirely. I know not of whom constructed the list, or how they knew where to find you or anyone else. I swear to you, that I didn’t even know of your name being added for recruitment purposes… You were always a bright mind and compassionate individual. Your aptitude in potions and charms would have certainly been prized qualities.” “But I’m- “ “He would only seek to use you for as long as necessary,” Severus interrupted, voice full of seriousness, “He would have you help until your use was exhausted, and then see you exterminated, or placed into servitude.” “Because of my blood-status…?” “Of course.” Lily bowed her head, already having sensed the majority of Severus’ facts on the matter, “She is such a terrible creature.” “Of that I can agree fully,” he said quietly, brushing her hair back over one shoulder, his fingertips removing the tension from her stresses away with every passing caress. “I must confess something to you.” “Hmm…?” “Alice knows about you,” she found herself telling him, “I have stayed with her and Frank ever since my divorce, and she’s my best friend- It’s no excuse, I know… And I’m sorry for it. I never had intended on it being something of dangerous knowledge.” “Has she told anyone about me?” “No,” Lily told him immediately, “I am certain of it; not even her husband.” “I presume she advised you against it?” “In the beginning, but she knows how happy you’ve made me- “ her words fell away into nothingness when she saw the expression which had come over Severus’ face, “What?” “Just knowing that I bring you happiness,” he told her, smile vanishing from his lips, though remaining within his dark eyes. “Can you forgive me?” “There is nothing to forgive, my love,” he told her, “I only wish that we didn’t have to keep our feelings a secret.” “Hopefully it will only be for a short while,” Lily agreed, “As Dumbledore implied. I don’t know what I’ll do while you’re gone again! It’s one thing being cooped up with Frank and Alice, or even Remus…” she paused, “But returning to that cottage in Godric’s Hollow, to James… All I will be able to think about will be you coming back to me.” “I will be in absolute misery for every moment that I am forced to remain away from you- But you must know that it is you alone who will sustain me; your very essence etched into the deepest depths of my soul.” “And what of James?” “As much as I deplore him, I trust in the promise of our former Headmaster, as well as your virtues,” he pressed her palm to his lips in a gentle kiss, “You will be true to me.” It was not an order, just a genuine trust and conviction within his voice. Lily smiled, her heart lurching with a happiness that filled her chest, despite the knowledge that they would again be forced to part from one another with the dawning of the sun. She moved her arms around him in that instant, pressing her lips fully against his, no longer able to sustain herself on conversation and promises alone. She needed him- No, wanted him… And it was all but apparent that he had been restraining himself with equal effort. Words left them altogether as more carnal urges began to prove themselves a truly persistent itch in need of being scratched. His tongue flicked across the silken skin of her lower lip, seeking admittance to her mouth. She obliged him with a heated sigh, pulling him closer still as he deepened their kiss. Perhaps it was the mutual knowledge of imminent departure which spurred them on, but there was an unmistaken, unbridled urgency in their amorous coupling that had not been present before. Lily snaked her fingers through his jet-black hair, nails lightly grazing against his scalp and pulling a groan from his lips, forcing their kiss to break. His hands lightly played at the sides of her waist, one slipping beneath the buckle of her traveling cloak, located at her throat, and unfastening the garment, stripping it from her fair frame. She made to do the same, hands seeking soft flesh and the feel of skin-on-skin. Chancing a glance at his face, she was met with the sight of his pupils blown wide with desire, his breathing quickened from the increased rise and fall of his chest beneath her hands. The hand remaining upon her waist moved steadily upward, lightly cupping the side of her face as he pressed his lips to hers in a tender kiss. Parting slightly, he stared continually into her stunningly green eyes, his hand slipping down her jaw, fingers trailing over the sensitive skin of her neck, the curve of her shoulder, and then down the center of her chest to the curve of her bosom, leaving goosebumps in the wake of his feather light touches. She leaned in to kiss him, but he backed away at the last moment- Just out of reach. She tried once, twice more, and the very same response met her with each attempt. He was teasing her; she knew it by the mischievous glimmer in his eyes, and bit her lip from frustration, and the growing need to feel the sensation he seemed so content upon denying her. Seeking to return the favor, she moved her hand from its place upon his thigh to the straining front of his trousers. The effect was immediate, and he let out a hot breath against her neck in response. He covered her hand that was positioned between his legs with one of his own, pressing it down firmly against the hidden, heated flesh beneath. Smirking just slightly, a thin sheen of sweat forming upon his brow, he led her in small movements of pointed rubbing, just slightly upward, and then downward to match. She leaned forward, her forehead resting upon his own, the index finger of her free hand tracing his lips, and then dipping inside of his mouth. The digit was met with the immediate feel of his tongue swirling about it, and then the pointed sucking as his eyes closed in quiet satisfaction. She sighed, removing her hand from his groin, and rising from her seat upon the bed the move between his legs. Severus leaned back, arms supporting him as he took in the beauty of the only woman he had ever loved, the only woman who would ever hold the whole of his heart in the palm of her hands. With a playful smile upon her lips she leaned in close, pressing her fingertips gently to his chest and then trailing them down to the hem. She pulled the shirt up and over his head, fingertips resuming their earlier movements over the smooth muscles and pale skin that was lightly dusted with dark hair. He strained to meet her lips, and she leaned in just a fraction from kissing him, “Not yet.” Before he could immediately register her words, she had pushed him back, and he lost his balance, falling back upon the lumpy mattress with a gentle ‘thud.’ Lily’s fingers moved down past his bellybutton and to the edge of his pants, fingers deftly unbuckling his belt and then the button and zipper of his fly. She then gripped the fabric and pulled the clothing from his legs, all the while he was left in a daze from the sensation of her hands moving over his skin and undressing him with her own sexy earnestness. He watched as she stood before him, eyes roaming the naked expanse of his form, her own hands stripping her clothing off piece-by-piece. She was beautiful, she was everything he had ever wanted, and he hoped she understood just how much she meant to him by the actions he had set forth to redeeming himself. He didn’t seek redemption for the benefit of his conscience alone- No, he sought righting prior wrongs and showing her just the sort of man he truly wanted to be… That he knew he was deep inside. It had all been because of her, and he desired nothing more than to love her and bring her happiness for all the days he lived. She crawled toward him, leaning over top him, lips lightly grazing his. Sometimes it was staggering to realize that it was real and not a fantasy… This surge of burning romance and passion that filled both of them so entirely. The feel of her breath was maddening, her touch electric. Cradling the back of her neck he pressed his lips to hers with the force he so desired, his other arm snaking about her waist and flipping her beneath him in one fluid motion. She giggled, the sound music to his ears as he smiled with unrestricted happiness when her eyes met his. He covered her face in quick little kisses, hands smoothing through her auburn curls, the giggling continuing until she was flushed and breathing heavier still. “Am I a fool for feeling like this?” he heard himself whisper to her in question. “If you are, then I suppose I am as well,” she smiled, emerald eyes glittering. He sucked lightly on her earlobe, the tip of his cock meeting her wet entrance, “Then we should enjoy every moment of our downfall.” Her head craned back and she arched her spine at the feel of his hot, blunt head against her folds, mouth slightly agape, eyes half-lidded. Slipping his arm beneath one of her legs, he brought it to his hip, the back of her knee resting at the crook of his elbow. With a lingering kiss, he thrusted himself inside of her, sheathing himself fulling within her exquisite depths, eyes closing as he melted into the feel and sensations of her. His Lily. Chapter End Notes *Happy sigh* I just love Sev and Lily SOOO much! Song for this installment: It_Will_Rain_-_Bruno_Mars ***** Playing the Part ***** Chapter Summary Severus leaves for Voldemort's headquarters, while Dumbledore must persuade Lily and James to make nice. Chapter Notes So this chapter is REALLY long. Normally I try and keep them to a more manageable length- But this one kinda got away from me. However, I think it's worth it, and I hope that you all enjoy and agree... It's necessary plot and would be weird to spread over multiple chapters. Happy reading! :) See the end of the chapter for more notes “Monsters are real, and ghosts are real too. They live inside us, and sometimes, they win.” -Stephen King [cigarette] March_of_1980 Severus left just before the light of dawn. The raging blizzard had died down outside of the warmth of the Inn, leaving the village of Hogsmeade shrouded in a fresh dusting of white powder, the stars causing twinkles of glitter to reflect upon the icy surface. Lily had awoken with a start when he had bent to kiss her goodbye, only partially awake. “I love you,” he told her, the fingers of one hand moving through her hair. “Must you go?” “You know I must.” She reached for him, the sheet slipping down and off of her body, the cool air instantly causing goosebumps to rise upon her fair skin. Severus groaned at the sight of her bathed in the starlight, wishing he could stay with her and make love to her again. It took almost every bit of restraint in his body to pull himself away from her, to remember the necessity of completing the task that Dumbledore had entrusted him with. “Please?” Merlin’s beard he wanted to… He wanted nothing more than to remain wrapped up in her warmth- In the scent of her and the feel of her. “You know that I cannot.” She pouted, kissing him all the same, “I love you- Come back to me.” “Nothing could keep me away from you.” He had slipped away from her shortly after, knowing full well that any more time wasted would mean he quite possibly would never leave. He had a task to uphold, an important mission worth completing… It meant far more than just finding comradery and meaning. Everything had changed with the addition of Lily, and the pressing desire to redeem himself for past misdeeds. This would be only the first of many secret errands for the Order of the Phoenix, he was certain of it. And as dangerous as it was, spying on one of the strongest and most dangerous evil wizards in recent history, he knew that he was the only man for it. Who else could there be? Who else would dare put their life in so much jeopardy? No one would suspect him, lest of all the Marauders from his days at Hogwarts, let alone the members of the Death Eaters, who believed the lieutenants to be untouchable and unwavering in their loyalty to the cause. The world was deathly still as he stepped outside into the chilly winter air. Tomorrow was March, and that meant the onslaught of springtime. Perhaps his fortune would continue to change and transform for the better with the thawing of the snow. He could only hope. Severus Snape had never been one for impractical musings, and turning around to have one last look at the Hog’s Head Inn, seemed something of a strange sentimentality to have come over him. He had refrained from watching Lily leave out of his life on both prior occasions that they had met, and why this one was any different, seemed almost foreign in nature to him. Was it because he finally associated the nature of their relationship? The deepness of his emotions, and the pressing desire to keep her safe, even before himself? He turned around, his black cloak sweeping across the pure snow, a silent shadow. His breath hitched in his chest as his eyes fell across the figure in the second floor window. Hair like fire, eyes like emeralds, and skin smooth and pale, naked as the day she was born- A vision of loveliness, a picture he could live off of for the rest of his days. =============================================================================== Albus Dumbledore had been adamant about the lovers entrusting him with persuading James Potter. It would be no easy task in bringing Lily’s ex-husband over to their side, though it was pivotal that appearances be kept if the Order was to eventually receive Severus as a fully-fledged member. The time was not yet right to share the details of his break with the Dark Lord’s side, or of his relationship with Lily. There was always risk when it came to making others aware of the circumstances surrounding any defection from Voldemort’s ranks, but this was even more dangerous. “I am using him as I must,” Dumbledore had told himself with some conviction after the events of his meeting with the pair of former students, “Nothing in life is free, and we would be fools to not understand the magnitude and full potential of endless possibilities presented to us through this very rare opportunity…” It was not every day that a Death Eater became disenchanted with the supremacist rhetoric that the Dark Lord preached. They hadn’t even known the identities of the lieutenants, or what they might have been involved in. Though nothing Severus had revealed to him had been entirely surprising in nature or context, it had been telling just the same. He had given them a greater understanding that they were on the right track with their suspicions of just how much the Death Eaters were being placed throughout the Ministry of Magic, and other formidable institutions of the Wizarding World. He had entrusted Severus with speaking the details of the small part of Sybill Trelawney’s prophecy that he had overheard, whilst not revealing the later details. The young man hadn’t asked about what more had been said, and had seemed truthful throughout his questioning. It was imperative that Voldemort not suspect anything was amiss when it came to such revelations, and believe that loyalty had not changed. To have a spy of such placement within the inner circle of such a Dark Wizard, meant that the opportunity would likely not present itself again. No, they must learn to trust one another, learn that they must strive for a better world in which future generations could hope to live fruitful, long lives. He and Lily could prove valuable when it came time to seek out the Horcruxes… Albus Dumbledore shook his head, forcing the thought from his mind. Although it was undeniably a necessary task in order to defeat the creature that Tom Riddle had transformed himself into, now was certainly not yet the time. He needed to focus on the task at hand, trusting that Severus would see his portion through to completion, before returning to report on the details of such an encounter. In the meantime, he needed to figure out how to approach James Potter about this matter surrounding Lily. There was no hope for them to actually work through their differences and salvage their relationship, that much was obvious. Lily had clearly moved on, and her devotion was staggering in scale. There had always been something about the awkward Slytherin youth, and the radiant Gryffindor Prefect, and later Head Girl, which had made the faculty at Hogwarts root for them against all odds. All, that was, except for the Headmaster. Dumbledore could not deny that he had never found himself much concerned with the amorous pining of students under their supervision. Potter, Black, Pettigrew, and Lupin had often been some of his more favored students. They had the propensity for breaking the rules, and sneaking around the many secret passageways of the castle and grounds, though there was always something akin to pride he felt for the band of Marauders. A good portion of it stemmed from their belonging to his same House, and then from their unwavering friendship towards a werewolf… Something not often seen in their world. But they had been troublemakers, and nightmarish when it came to their cocky interaction with much of their peers. James especially had long been hot-headed and arrogant. He could scarcely count how many times the boy had been given detention, or had been sent to his office for a good scolding. Perhaps he had long been too lenient on him for his misdeeds… Actions he had long attributed to coming-of-age, and growing up. Perhaps James was really just immature and believe himself entitled? He would need to put aside any personal feelings, any sensation of parenting or need to explain James Potter’s actions into a sort of excuse. There were only two possibilities for how a reaction from him might be received, depending on how he elected to proceed. “Lily will be returning to your marital home.” “You’ve convinced her?!” “Yes, though she despises you and is only doing it because of me.” It was the truth, though certainly less than tactful in nature. “Lily has agreed to return to Godric’s Hollow.” “She has?!” “Yes, but not for reasons you might suspect.” “What-?” “There are detailed plans in the works, and I need to keep her safe. The others will only suspect that you are attempting to salvage your marriage.” “Then, there’s hope...?” “No, she’s moved on… As should you.” Wrong, wrong, wrong. It would be no simple task, and he must not reveal too much or suffer disastrous consequences. Perhaps a lie would be the best option, rather than forcing him to suffer the truth. It was only a temporary arrangement anyways. No matter, he would need to make certain to speak with Lily in depth in regards to what exactly went on at their meeting. With a steady throbbing growing more and more apparent in his brain, he rubbed his temples against the headache forming. He was already regretting his persistence with dealing with James Potter. =============================================================================== Lily felt the familiar pangs of nervousness as Albus Dumbledore led her wordlessly through the mazelike halls and corridors of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. It had been three days since Severus had departed into the unknown; three long days that Lily had been cooped up with only Aberforth for company. She had not expected for the elder Dumbledore to request her presence yet again, lest of all within the castle that she had spent so much of her young life at. They had met one another halfway, at the Hogwarts Station, trudging through the familiar grounds at a brisk pace. The silence was not uncomfortable in nature, for Lily had grown somewhat familiar in knowing that her former Headmaster would speak when ready. It was past curfew within the school, and they ran into not a soul living or otherwise. Eventually they came upon the foreboding gargoyle guardian upon the third floor and stopped abruptly. “Time for a new password, Headmaster,” the stone creature grumbled in its usual abrasive tone. “Ah,” Dumbledore nodded, “Yes, but of course… Lily, would you do the honors?” “Me?” she squeaked, surprised by the suggestion. Her nerves were already rattled by the reminiscent quality of being back within the confines of the castle. Though she had scarcely ever received a detention during her tenure at the school, she felt as though it were still, somehow, a possibility. “Come now,” Dumbledore pressed, not unkindly, his blue eyes twinkling. “Pixie Puff?” He smiled and nodded his approval, “You remember my fondness for sweets… An excellent choice.” The gargoyle gave a grunt and leapt to one side, allowing the pair entrance. The familiar moving staircase greeted them, providing the way up to the Headmaster’s Office. Once inside, Albus Dumbledore barred the door behind them so that they were afforded the necessary privacy. The room was large and beautiful, circular, and full of the kinds of knick-knacks and trinkets that could keep one’s attention fully occupied for days on end. Silver instruments stood on tables, making uniquely different noises and occasionally emitting little puffs of smoke. Behind the large and formidable desk, the Sorting Hat sat upon a shelf, along with the brilliant silver sword of Godric Gryffindor- The rubies in its hilt nearly glowing a deep blood red in the dimness of the hour. Surrounding them, the walls were covered in the portraits of all the old headmasters and headmistresses that the school had ever known. Some feinting sleep, some actually snoring and drooling in their frames, and others openly staring with an unmistakable curiosity. “You will be returning to Godric’s Hollow after our discussion,” he told her, “I believe it is time we give the Hog’s Head back to Aberforth.” “Oh…” Lily heard herself say. “My brother has the tendency of becoming rather unpleasant when he feels as though anyone has seemingly worn out their welcome, and I do not wish for you to suffer that fate.” “He has been nothing but courteous.” “That is good to hear,” he nodded, “And although he has not openly suggested that it is time for you to move on, I know, as I am sure you do yourself, that it is time for us to move forward with your part of the plan.” Lily nodded, eyes diverting to her shoes, hands clutching hard at the sides of her traveling cloak. “Now, I do not wish to send you in blindly,” he proceeded, moving across the room and opening a cabinet, “Which is why I suggested that you join me here.” When he turned, he had in his arms a stone basin with runes and strange symbols carved around the edge, seemingly full of a silvery substance, cloud-like, and swirling, though nearly liquid from certain angles. It was a Pensieve, of that much Lily could discern from merely looking upon the object. It did not surprise her in the slightest to learn that Dumbledore possessed one, or that he had so completely utilized the item for storing and reviewing his many memories… For a wizard as famous as her former Headmaster, it seemed rather obvious a possession. What memories and ideas, thoughts and discoveries swirled in the depths of the basin were a vast and intriguing prospect, though something altogether overwhelming. What was it that he wished for her to see? “I have spoken with James Potter, and I wish for you to be privy to our meeting before returning to your once marital home,” he told her as he placed the object gently upon his desk, answering her inner questioning at once. Though disappointed to some degree, wishing that it had been something of far more interest, Lily had suspected as much, and nodded in understanding as she waited for him to continue. “I suspect that you know what this is?” “It is a Pensieve, sir,” she stated, much like she would have if still in attendance at Hogwarts, “A device intended for storing and reviewing memories. Though I have not utilized one myself, I have read that when revisiting thoughts, it is something akin to being there yourself… To watching it unfold before you, though being unable to change it in anyway.” The corner of his mouth twitched into a slight smile, “Very astute, as I would have only expected.” “Thank you, sir.” “Now, will you join me? Let us have a look into the meeting with your ex- husband so that there will be no surprises waiting for you.” Lily moved beside the aged man, and watched him. Using the tip of his wand, he poked the contents of the basin, and then lowered his face to the edge of the ornate stone, dipping his face into the silvery substance within. She stared for a moment, eyes widening, though quickly snapped herself out of it, proceeding in much the same manner as her former Headmaster. How would they get back out? She presumed it would be as simple as leaving a theatre at the final curtain call. Dipping her face into Albus Dumbledore’s memories was a strange and certainly unusual experience that she had never believed would become a part of her life. She found herself dropping through unformed surroundings until she landed firmly and gently upon her two feet, seeming to stand upon solid ground. She was within her old living room in the cottage in Godric’s Hollow, though the appearance of the space was staggering in its changes. It was filthy and unkempt, clearly the result of James’ forced bachelorhood, and depression from her walking out on him. Albus Dumbledore stepped to her, lightly pressing her arm to make certain she knew him to be the real and present man, and not the memory which would undoubtedly be appearing shortly. “They will not be able to hear us, nor will we be able to change what has come to pass,” he told her quietly. Lily nodded, eyes moving around the space, the structure that was familiar, though life that had seemingly fallen to pieces. Though she did not wish to renew her life with James Potter, she could not deny the small amount of shame and pity that rose within her at the sight of his devastation at her desertion. She had known her decision to be right in walking out of that life, in ending her marriage and electing to find her own happiness… But that didn’t make seeing his struggle any less sorrowful in its extent. “Mister Potter.” “Sorry about the mess,” James had mumbled, everything about him seeming foreign to the memory of the man Lily had once known. “Nothing that isn’t expected,” the twin of the man standing beside Lily spoke, and with a flick of his wand, everything began moving and spinning, whirling and flying back into place. It was mere moments before the house was less of a warzone in appearance, and had regained a livable standard. James had blushed at the quick work his former Headmaster had made at tidying up the space, and motioned for him to take a seat. Dumbledore took the chair beside the empty fireplace, and James sat upon the sofa he had been clearly using as a bed. He pulled a cigarette from the pack on the coffee table, lit it, and inhaled deeply, exhaling smoke into the room. “I have noticed that there has been a change in you,” Dumbledore began, “After seeing the inside of your home, it is obvious that the break in your personality runs deep… Lily is gone?” “You already know she’s been staying with Frank and Alice.” “Correct. But is she coming back?” He shrugged, focusing his attention upon the cigarette and the swirling grey smoke, rather than the question posed to him. “James, you’ve heard about the attempt of recruitment in London, I presume?” Dumbledore continued, “You know that Frank and Alice were forced from their home…?” “Aye,” he nodded. “Yet you have no curiosity as to the whereabouts of Lily- “ James slammed a fist down upon the coffee table hard, the ashtray rattling upon the surface, the aged man clearly unsurprised by the sudden outburst. “I would assume she’s gone with them to wherever they’ve gone off to.” "And you would be incorrect in your assumption, Mister Potter. She remains at risk." “She- WHAT?!” he exclaimed, eyes meeting the familiar blue ones across the room. “Lily was not about to put others at risk, and given Bellatrix Lestrange’s threat, felt it best to remain a target on her own, rather than be the reason the Death Eater’s might seek out her closest of friends, and a pregnant woman no less.” “Where is she?” “She remains in the house in London.” “WHAT?!” James bellowed, rising to his feet, “We have to go get her out of there, we have to move her somewhere safe…!” “She is being looked after, I assure you.” “By whom?” James nearly spat, jealousy clearly boiling beneath the surface. “I don’t see how it- “ “BY WHOM?!” Dumbledore sighed, “Remus Lupin.” James inhaled deeply upon his cigarette, the ash glowing red as it grew to nearly the filter. He then crushed the remnants in the ashtray before lighting up another to take its place. “So one of my closest friends doesn’t even tell me what’s going on…” “He was under the strict orders not to speak of his posting to anyone.” “Yours, I’m guessing?” Dumbledore chuckled, and nodded, “I found him the logical choice.” “As opposed to her husband?!” “James, I have been informed that you are no longer married… Thus, I would respectfully correct you in stating, ‘as opposed to her former husband,' which would be correct.” James fumed, turning in a circle, seemingly unsure of where to go, or how to react at being wrong in reference to the woman he had once been married to, vowed to spend forever with, and clearly still cared for deeply. “Who told you? Was it Sirius?” “No, it wasn’t Mister Black,” Dumbledore replied calmly, “It was Lily.” James stopped at the mention of her, betrayal written across his features. They softened, somehow even more broken-down and devastated by the revelation that Lily had admitted such to the leader of the Order of the Phoenix. He wasn’t surprised, it clearly wasn’t that, but the fact that she was so comfortable in speaking about the end of something that had once meant so much to the both of them- At least seemed to, was hard to hear just the same. “It was my decision to send Remus to look after her, before convincing her to seek residence elsewhere,” Dumbledore continued. “So she told you of the end of our marriage? Of our life together, and of everything that we had promised and vowed to make a reality…? Everyone knows! I’m a buggering fool to resist the urge to speak about it myself. I’m sure Frank and Alice know every damned detail, every single fucking mistake I’ve ever made!” “I am not here to point fingers, or to open old wounds.” “And yet you show up and begin questioning me about her?!” he shouted, incredulously, “Do you not think that she haunts me at every turn? That I have tried to be the ‘bigger person,’ and respect her choices? I fucking loved her with every bone in my body, with every breath that filled my lungs, and she threw everything away because she never cared a lick about me. She told me that day she left that she sought redemption for past failures; for not forgiving that slimy motherfucking Slytherin snake- Snivellus. Fucking Severus Snape.” James was seething mad, the cigarette teetering on the edge of his lips, Dumbledore remaining stoic and silent before his former pupil just the same, “She left me. SHE LEFT ME! I have tried to move on, tried to focus on the tasks at hand surrounding the downfall of You-Know-Who, and even the pointless distractions offered by Sirius and my other mates. Nothing works. NOTHING!” “I wish for Lily to come back here.” James laughed, the sound spiteful and hollow. “She needs to be kept safe.” “Have Remus do it.” “Remus has other obligations that he must see through to completion,” the aged man pressed, “You know that his work within the wild ranks of the Werewolves is nothing short of necessary when so many of their kind are aligning themselves with the Dark Lord. We need not speak more on the subject, for it is not the one which is of importance between you and I.” “Lily would never agree to it.” “What if I told you that it was her idea?” Lily stared at the true and present Albus Dumbledore beside her, shock and surprise playing at her face. She opened her mouth, though her silenced her with a wave of his hand, motioning that she continue watching the scene that was unfolding before them. James stared at his former Headmaster with equal stunned emotion that Lily had only just expressed. “I asked her where she would go, for she could not stay in London unless suicide was something she fancied. She wasted no time in thinking upon the matter, and immediately said you.” “What-? But? I thought…” James was unable to form the words, and instead collapsed upon the sofa once more, outing his cigarette in the ashtray and placing his head in his hands. “Despite the troubles you have faced between you,” Dumbledore told him, “There was no hesitation when it came to understanding that she would be safe here with you… That you would be able to protect and look after her in these trying times and dangerous circumstances.” “Does she hope to return to Frank and Alice?” “Of that I do not know.” “Do you know of her motivations to come back?” “I cannot say,” he told the younger man, “I did not ask, nor did she offer a reason.” “Perhaps there is hope…” Albus Dumbledore notably hesitated, something that would not have been apparent to James, given his lowered gaze, though was unmistakable to Lily as she continued to watch in uncomfortable silence, “You would need to bring that possibility up with her.” “Do you know if she went to find Snivellus?” “James, may I offer you a bit of advice?” The change in his former Headmaster’s tone had James looking up in obvious curiosity. “If a reunion is, in fact, what you seek… A potential mending of your relationship, towards friendship, or otherwise- “ “You know it is,” he interrupted, sitting up a little taller, determination in his features. “Then you must realize that your own feelings must be put aside. Do not mistake me, for I do not mean your hurt and everything else that has come between you both. I refer to Severus Snape. You know, just as much as all of us, how close Lily was to him for most of her life. If it is any part of the reasoning behind your initial separation, I think you might do well to consider thinking before you speak. You are, of course, entitled to any personal feelings you may have, and Merlin only knows- As does the rest of the Wizarding World… How much you will never be able to befriend or understand Mister Snape. But you must understand that if it is a sensitive subject to Lily, you must be able to put your own animosity aside for the sake of her.” James clenched a fist tightly at the mention of his rival’s name, though eventually let it go, nodding his understanding, “I will have to try if it means hope for a future with her.” “Precisely.” Lily once again stared at the living and breathing man beside her, wishing that he would only allow her the outburst she so longed to have. Dumbledore once again shook his head, “Only a little while longer, and then you may ask me whatever it is that you wish.” “She can home if she wants to,” James said quietly. “Excellent,” Dumbledore responded, rising to his feet, “We will need to do a Fidelius Charm on your home, of course. I feel it will be a necessary precaution in order to preserve the safety of the both of you, considering the Death Eater’s interest in Lily. We will also need to figure out a Secret Keeper for this place… Perhaps myself?” “No,” James told him quickly, “I don’t mean to offend, sir. But I see no need in allowing anyone apart from Lily and myself knowledge of this location… Best we keep it the fewer the better.” “Not even Sirius Black?” “No,” James repeated again, “Just Lily and I. The Potters… As I hope for us to one day be again.” The scene around them began to grow more and more dim, everything becoming hazy, and then going out of focus before turning black. When Lily next looked around, she had returned to the Headmaster’s Office at Hogwarts, and she stepped away from the desk and the Pensieve upon it, collapsing into a high- back chair across the room beside the fire. Dumbledore joined her, taking his seat in the other, interlacing his long fingers and waiting for Lily to ask all of her burning questions that he had not allowed of her while viewing the memory. “I don’t even know where to begin…” “It always seems most appropriate to start at the beginning, my dear.” “Sir, I know that you believe me safest in returning to James and the cottage in Godric’s Hollow,” Lily began, “But don’t you realize that you gave him false hope of a reconciliation between us?” Dumbledore thought for a long moment before responding, “I bent the truth,” he admitted, “However, you saw through the interaction between he and I, that James continues to care very much for you despite everything that has happened.” “Which is flattering, I’m sure,” Lily stammered, “But it is of no consequence to me. I have Severus now… What do you think James will do when he learns about that?” “I hope to see him a changed and accepting man.” Lily shook her head, trying to find the reasoning behind Dumbledore’s opinions, “You know James Potter just as much as I do, or any of his friends… Sir, he doesn’t think like that, and he won’t accept Severus and I being together!” “Lily- “ “No, you aren’t listening!” she exclaimed, “You are trying to find a reason for ‘bending the truth’ as you admitted, but you must realize that James Potter is not the sort of man to change in his opinions overnight! I appreciate your convincing him to allow me to return home- Not because I want to, because I don’t! But because it is what you wish for me in the greater picture of preserving the Order and its members.” She paused for a moment, chest heaving from her outburst before continuing, “I would never return to that house from my own means… You lied to him about it being my idea. If it were up to me I’d be anywhere else.” A silence fell between the pair, before Albus Dumbledore finally spoke, “I understand your fears, for it was a risk that I selected to take. I hope that I will not be proven wrong in my judgment…” He paused, “I don’t want you to believe that I am doing this only with the greater hope of reuniting the two of you; somehow rekindling a flame that was outed many months ago. I have seen the interactions between you and Mister Snape firsthand, and I know you both to be enamored with one another. Do not forget that I was young once, that I, myself, have known love and heartbreak… Anything can happen, a moment can change everything in the blink of an eye. You must do what makes you happy. If that means being with a defector from the ranks of the Dark Lord, then that is your choice. If it means mending your former marriage, then that id your “So am I to keep Severus a secret from him?” “I believe that it would be in your best interest to keep that detail private, unless he gives you some reason to divulge the information of your own accord.” “I- Ugh…” Lily hung her head forward in mixed frustration and exhaustion. “It will only be temporary, I assure you.” “For how long?” “Of that I cannot explicitly say,” he told her, “Until the moment is right to reveal Severus’ true loyalty… Which may coincide with the Dark Lord discovering his betrayal first hand.” “How would he come to know of it?” “How did he come to know of your whereabouts with Frank and Alice? Or of Sirius Black in his wanderings?” Dumbledore was even in his answers, and serious in his stare, “Lily, there’s an informer within our organization… Within the Order of the Phoenix.” Her mouth opened in both fear and surprise. “No one would know you were staying with Frank and Alice unless they were a member of the Order,” he continued, “The information that the Dark Lord is receiving is not the kind of which one can attribute to simple deduction of watchfulness amongst the Death Eaters. I have suspected it for some time now, and I know it is nothing that Severus may have learned from you. It is most definitely someone close to us who seeks our downfall.” “Who?” “I am not sure.” “So placing me with James-?” “It seemed the only logical answer, and the Fidelius Charm will only act as an additional precaution in order to keep the pair of you safe. You don’t have to love each other, but I hope that you both may at least find some common ground. With time, it is my belief that James might even learn to tolerate Severus in his admirable contribution to the Order.” Lily had a hard time believing such, but she did not wish to continue arguing with her former Headmaster about the qualities or lack thereof, her ex-husband possessed. Instead she trained her gaze upon the deep blue eyes before her, framed by the half-moon spectacles, “What of Severus and I?” “As I recall, your last ‘holiday’ was spent in the company of one another,” he ignored Lily’s blush, “It appears as though you both managed well enough on your own, and I see no reason for that to not continue. I have a task for the both of you which is of the utmost importance… However, I do not wish to reveal the extent of it until Severus has parted from the Dark Lord completely. It will take many months, possibly years to complete- A task which may become all- consuming in more ways than even I could possibly imagine. Now is not yet the time.” Though her curiosity pressed her to question the aged man further, Lily held her tongue, “And what am I to tell James when I select to leave the confines of the cottage?” “My dear Lily,” he smiled, “I would hate to see anyone make the critical mistake of stepping between you, and anything that you have set your mind to. It would be only a daft fool who stood at the end of your wand and tried to keep you hidden away; forbidden from seeing your plans through to completion. It would be my assumption that James would reconsider his words rather quickly, if he made such a foolhardy attempt to keep you without your freedoms.” “So I am to come and go as I wish?” “If there is any question in the matter, I would beseech you to contact me, and I will put Mister Potter straight. But that doesn’t mean you are to act recklessly, which I would not suspect you of ever intentionally doing.” After another brief silence had fallen between the pair, Lily nodded at her former Headmaster, rising to her feet, “I suppose it’s time that I return to Godric’s Hollow.” Chapter End Notes I feel kinda bad for James??? Not really. And DANG, guys!!! Thank you so much for the continued love and support with kudos and comments. They always make my day! ♡♡♡ Song: Samson_-_Regina_Spektor ***** Serpents & Lions ***** Chapter Summary Severus returns to Voldemort bearing news of the Prophecy. Lily makes a 'homecoming' to Godric's Hollow, and the cottage once shared with her ex-husband. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “It’s only after we’ve lost everything that we’re free to do anything.” -Chuck Palahniuk [gate] When Lily arrived at the front gate of the little cottage in Godric’s Hollow, she wasn’t quite sure how to feel. She knew that it was not only for the good of Albus Dumbledore and the Order of the Phoenix for her to return to that home she had once shared- A life she had shared… With James Potter, but also for her own safety as well. Though her former Headmaster had not revealed all in their short few meetings, Lily knew him to be playing her fate- As well as that of Severus and all of them really… It was not unlike a game of Wizard Chess; she only hoped that he proved a brilliant player. For how long she stood before the house, she wasn’t sure. It was still cold out, the wind whipping across her solitary frame and causing her black traveling cloak to equally furl in the gust. Her emerald green eyes were trained upon the heavy wooden front door, but her feet remained glued in place. She was uneasy, that much was obvious. It wasn’t so much being back in the presence of her ex-husband that brought about such feelings either. It was far more about being alone together, and what they would have to talk about. In the many months that they had traversed Lily’s leaving, they had not once had a moment in true isolation with just each other. Just breathe. Her fingers tightened in their grip around the handle of her suitcase- The same one she had originally left with. Her auburn hair tickled at her neck, and she bit her lip slightly in an attempt to urge herself forward. She was being silly. She knew it to be true, but why was she suddenly so besides herself with childish questioning and unease? It was like she was back in Hogwarts again, and not in the best of circumstances. “Are you planning on standing at the gate all day, or do you intend on coming inside?” The sound of James’ voice snapped her immediately from the trance she had seemingly fallen into. He had, at some point, opened the front door and stood staring out at her, arms crossed over his chest, expression of equal unease and nervousness to that of her own. His dark hair was messy- Like it always was, his glasses reflecting some of the light of the setting sun. He tried to smile in a welcoming way, but it came out something much more reminiscent of a grimace. At least he seems to be just as uncomfortable as myself. Taking a deep breath, Lily unlatched the gate and made her way the short distance to the front door. For a moment she and James just stared at each other in close proximity, neither saying anything, nor taking a step forward or back. Eventually, James stepped aside, motioning her into the house, which she complied with, the door closing firmly behind her. Lily had not been sure of what to expect when returning to her former home, having seen the mess of things from Dumbledore’s visit in the Pensieve. What was certain, was that she had not expected for it to be so transformed further still. James had, very obviously, deep cleaned everything. From the floors to the walls, from the fabrics to the surfaces. A fire crackled merrily in the fireplace, the interior warm and comforting- How she remembered it long ago being. Her face flushed against the sudden warmth, her cold cheeks burning slightly at the change of temperature. “Let me take your cloak?” James asked timidly. She nodded, setting down her bag and unfastening the front buckle, “Thank you.” After wiggling out of the garment, Lily smoothed her clothes, looking around the room with familiarity, “I see you’ve kept the place up nicely…” “It’s been more of a recent transformation, I assure you,” he told her, motioning her to take a seat by the fire, “Bachelorhood has been something of a whirlwind when it comes to keeping up with household chores. I often find it much easier to continually put it off, telling myself that I’ll return to it sometime later… That then transforms to days, or weeks… Or just not at all.” She nodded, lips pursed, folding her hands in her lap. “Can I get you some tea?” “Please,” she smiled, “That would be nice.” In a few moments she was presented with a piping hot cup of somewhat watery Darjeeling, though grateful for the added warmth in brought with every sip. James sat on the opposite end of the sofa, occasionally attempting to look over at her when Lily seemed to be unaware. She did not miss the sidelong glances, though she selected to not remark upon them either. It was a strange enough situation for the both of them, and she didn’t see how beginning their time together with more awkwardness or misconstrued actions would be of any benefit. “I was thinking you could take the bedroom if you like,” James managed after a short while. “Oh…” Lily began, setting down her cup, “I don’t mind sleeping out here. I mean, that’s very gracious of you, but this is your house after all… I hardly see it appropriate in my taking your bedroom from you.” Our old bedroom. James looked at her, and then quickly diverted his gaze into the dancing flames of the fire before them, “I don’t sleep in there. I mean, I haven’t- Not since… Well, you know.” Lily felt the pangs of guilt and discomfort quell up inside her at his words. She had suspected as much from the images within Dumbledore’s Pensieve, but hearing James verbalize them was another thing entirely. She had never intended upon breaking his heart… In driving such a wedge between them. It had not been completely her fault- The blame had been equal in reaching the end of their marriage. She didn’t want the bedroom, not truly. Probably for much of the same reasons that James didn’t either. It had been their room… Their matrimonial bed. A place they had once seemed wholly and contentedly in love. They had laughed together, talked and whispered well into the first traces of dawn’s light… They had held each other in times of sorrow and times of joy. They had made love as though there were only the two of them in the world. But for every good memory, there had also been bad. Maybe not always, and perhaps not overwhelming the happiest of times they had shared together over the years… But enough that they had reached a breaking point in July of 1979. It was a startling thought to realize that they had been apart for eight months. So much had happened and changed. And nothing could ever be the same… And Lily knew without thought and question that she would not change her mind. “If you would prefer that I take it, I won’t object,” she told him, once again biting her lower lip. “I- Uh…” James turned and met her eyes with his brown ones, “Thank you, Lily. I would appreciate it.” “Would it be alright if I go and place my bag in there?” “Of course,” he nodded, his trademark cocky smile coming over his lips, “I believe you know the way.” She smiled, glad to see that they were both attempting to emerge from their shells. It would certainly take some time, though there was already some promise that their arrangement might not be all bad. “Dumbledore informed me that you haven’t selected a Secret Keeper for the house.” He stiffened slightly at her mention, “No, I haven’t.” “I believe,” Lily continued, “That it might be a good idea. I liked your idea of it being safer still if it’s only you and I that know, but Dumbledore does raise a good point in it being ideal if one other is aware in case of emergency or otherwise.” “And who would you have me choose?” It was an honest question, and not one she had given much thought to, nor did she truly care as to the decided individual. Knowing that their former Headmaster suspected a traitor within the ranks of the Order of the Phoenix was certainly something she held in the back of her mind though. She didn’t dare reveal as much to James, knowing that the information had been spoken to her in the strictest of confidences, so she knew to proceed carefully. Luckily, the options of suggestion seemed rather simple to her. “Perhaps Moony, Padfoot, or Wormtail?” He smiled at her familiar use of the nicknames of his best friends. “I just think that they have always been loyal to you… They are your longest and most trusted of friends, and I would think any of them a perfect option.” “Perhaps you’re right,” James nodded, leaning back on the sofa and stretching out his arms, briefly staring at the ceiling, “Dumbledore suggested Sirius, though I think it a rather obvious selection, wouldn’t you say so?” “He is your best mate.” “Right you are,” he smiled his cheesy grin again, “But the other two are sound possibilities… Perhaps Peter since I doubt anyone would suspect him… Hell, he probably won’t even suspect it!” Lily smiled, “I’ll leave the details of it up to you.” =============================================================================== The blood-red eyes lit up with surprise, nostrils flaring as his lieutenant walked through the grand doors and into the large room. Nagini slithered across the floor in some corner of the space, always watchful of her Master- Such a loyal pet. For some time, the two men stared at one another in mutual respect and acknowledgment. Voldemort moved from his place at the high-backed chair before the fire, and approached his youngest and most valued servant. “Master,” Severus greeted with a half bow. “Arise,” the Dark Lord hissed, a frightening expression coming over his face- It was a smile, though far more crazed and evil in appearance, “You have returned to me.” “Aye,” he nodded, “I believe you will be most pleased with what I have uncovered.” “We shall see,” he replied clipped, motioning for the younger man to accompany him closer to the fire in the dim space. “Master, your suspicions regarding Dumbledore as the leader of the Order of the Phoenix have proven most correct,” Severus began, “It appears he forwards suggestions via Owl Post from Hogwarts to various locations across the United Kingdom, members of the Order then organizing their movements accordingly. It would seem that his true attendance to such meetings is limited, often coinciding with school breaks and holidays. Perhaps emergencies as well when they arise… And, of course, depending upon severity of such instances.” Voldemort showed no emotion from the details bestowed upon him, though it was obvious that he was pleased by the information. He folded his slim hands, “And how did you learn of this information? For observing him alone?” “No, Master,” Severus told him quickly, “If I were to have gone on observation alone, I scares would have ever uncovered the details you so sought to confirm in belief. In Hogsmeade alone, I may have observed him three or four times at most, and was certain to keep my distance at all times. What I learned, was gained from more careful prying- “ “By which, you mean spying?” “Yes, Master.” “And were you careful to go unnoticed?” A slight pause, “I returned to you after learning a bit of information that I believed fulfilled your last part of my mission… However, I was unfortunately caught part of the way through. I should have set up better precautions, but- “ Voldemort silenced him with a wave of the hand, rising from his chair and taking two steps towards Severus, “The severity of your being found will depend upon what it is that you have uncovered… I hope that it is good. Though I suspect I will not be disappointed, for you are unlike my other lieutenants when it comes to your honesty and loyalty. Lucius would try and wave away any blunderings with a bribe or commitment to added finery. He thinks galleons and sickles will turn any man to his side; what am I to want with riches and monetary wealth? We are seeking a new age! Wealth does not buy power in magic or strength amongst masses…” Severus stood steady before the powerful wizard before him, head held high in an attempt to show a sense of fearlessness, but also respect. “What did you learn of value to our cause?” “A Prophecy, Master.” He scoffed, “There has not been a true Prophecy since the time of Cassandra Trelawney…” “During my time in Hogsmeade I learned about an interview that Dumbledore was holding for the vacated position of Divinations Professor. I had thought much the same thing as you, Master- However, this was the real thing, I assure you.” “Perhaps it would be best for me to see it myself.” There it was. Voldemort was planning to use his Legilimency proficiency to prove Severus’ learned knowledge true. Where before it may have proven of no concern, he would have to be very careful in making certain that the interaction in the Hog’s Head Inn was all that his Master became privy to. Any added interactions from his time with Albus Dumbledore and Lily would prove almost certainly fatal if uncovered. He did not plan on having his life stolen from him after he had already gone through so much to make the necessary movements to breaking free of the Dark Arts and ranks of the Death Eaters. He would not have his risk be for nothing. “I welcome you,” Severus told him, kneeling before the foreboding figure, “It would be my honor, Master.” The sensation was immediate, familiar, though deeply uncomfortable, but quick. In a flash the Dark Lord was within his mind, viewing his memories of the night at the Inn whilst the blizzard raged outside. It felt like an invasion of privacy- It most certainly was, but he knew that he would be safe in the end, for he had given him no reason to distrust. “Forgive me, but there is nothing more to say,” Dumbledore’s voice stated calmly and gently, “This has been a very enlightening meeting, and I appreciate your time… Unfortunately, I feel as though my earlier beliefs on the continuation of the Divination courses at Hogwarts have been made abundantly clearer still. I am sure you will find an establishment that appreciates your talents, Ms. Trelawney, however, I do not feel as though our young wizarding minds would benefit much from your ‘inner eye,’ or ‘second sight' at this time." “Professor, please!” The door cracked just slightly, “Thank you, again- “ “THE ONE WITH THE POWER TO VANQUISH THE DARK LORD APPROACHES… BORN TO THOSE WHO HAVE THRICE DEFIED HIM, BORN AS THE SEVENTH MONTH DIES…” “What in the buggering hell are you doing up here?!” the gruff voice of the barman boomed from behind, “Listening in at people’s damned doors- Have you no respect?! Get out of my place, you worthless git!" And just as soon as he had entered his youngest lieutenant’s mind, Voldemort had left it, spinning away from him and facing the fire deep in thought. Severus rubbed his temples against the headache of having been invaded by such an interaction, though knew he had succeeded in passing this first and worrisome test. “You have not spoken of this to anyone else?” “No, Master.” “We must keep it that way for a time,” Voldemort said calmly, his voice emotionless, though Severus could tell he was thinking hard upon the details of the portion of the Prophecy that was overheard. “As you command.” “This has been very useful, Severus…” he hissed, back still turned to him, “You have proven yourself a most dedicated and loyal servant, as I have always known. Thank you. You may leave now… I shall call upon you when I have decided how we will next proceed.” =============================================================================== Lily had left Godric’s Hollow for the weekend, to pay a long overdue visit to Frank and Alice. It would be their first reunion of sorts since the incident involving Bellatrix Lestrange in London. She had left early in the morning; James having seen her off with a friendly wave from the door. It had seemed that their arrangement was working out swimmingly thus far, though there was still a certain element of awkwardness and discomfort between them from time to time. James had been overwhelmed to say the least, though he could tell that Lily was having just as much difficulty from time to time as well. He had taken her suggestion to heart when she voiced her agreement with Albus Dumbledore on the subject of Secret Keeper. Seeing it as a means to further the goodwill between them, James had decided to heed her recommendation and approach one of his former Marauder’s about their assistance in the matter. It was shortly after lunchtime when he went to the Leaky Cauldron to meet the individual in question, taking a seat in a far corner of the pub and ordering a pint while he waited. He glanced at his watch, noting that his companion was late, and lit up a cigarette in the meantime. It wasn’t long after, that the sound of quickly scurrying feet met his ears even through the sound of conversation amongst other patrons of the establishment. He looked up just as the short and overweight man in question slipped into the booth across from him. He wiped his brow, beads of sweat standing out upon his pocked skin. His dirty-blonde hair was in disarray, something horrendously reminiscent of a comb-over and mullet hybrid, though scarcely describable in its fashion. His black robes were a bit too long, most likely an affordable option to hold with his disproportionate body, though in desperate need of being hemmed. His eyes were small and beady, and placed too far apart. His nose and meaty lips seemed strange accompaniments- Features that did not seem to fit his face. His mouth was agape, a usual, and unfortunate occurrence. James took another deep drag off of his cigarette, clenching his jaw at the moronic expression upon the face of his mouth-breather of a friend. “A- Apologies for being a touch late, Prongs…” “Wormtail, I have grown used to it,” James sighed, crushing the cigarette into the ashtray between them, “In fact, you’re quite predictable when it comes to disappointment.” The rat-like man chewed on his lower lip, flinching at his friend’s words. His hands moved about fidgety, seemingly unable to still his nervous movements. “I am sure you have been made aware of my current situation…” “In what way, Prongs?” “Lily’s come back… She’s staying with me again.” Peter Pettigrew said nothing, though his mouth hung open in usual stupidity. “I intend on mending what was broken between us.” “G- Good for you, Prongs! Lily’s always been such a nice girl, I think that’s just tremendous!” James took a deep breath, always a touch unsure of why exactly he, Sirius, and Remus had ever selected in allowing Peter to have been their fourth. What was it that he offered? He wasn’t proficient in almost anything magical... Nearly a Squib when it came to abilities. All throughout their tenure at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, he had somehow finagled his way into being a part of their little club- One of the elite Marauders. He was humorous… Perhaps that was it? But it wasn’t from actual comedy or quirky jokes. No, they always laughed at him. It might have seemed cruel, but for all the amusement that he had offered them over the years, they had felt something akin to obligation when it came to protecting him from the incessant bullying that he would have undoubtedly suffered if it weren’t for their friendship. But that didn’t mean that they ever really enjoyed his company or companionship… He was odd, and always had been. But he was loyal, and of that James was certain. “The thing is, mate… I have something important to ask of you. Something that I can’t just ask of anyone either.” “What is it?” “They’re putting a Fidelius Charm on my home. I need to select a Secret Keeper for added measure of security. And well, I believe that there would be no other wizard perfect for the role than yourself.” “M- Me?!” he squeaked, jumping in his seat, eyes darting about the barroom surroundings in obvious discomfort. “Are you up for the task? Yes, or no, Wormtail.” “I- Uh… Prongs?! Me?! Are you certain… Not Padfoot? I would’ve thought you’d select P- Padfoot before me… I- I- “ James rolled his eyes, already annoyed at the conversation, and not wanting to elaborate further for the surroundings that they were in. It wasn’t that he distrusted Tom or the Leaky Cauldron, for he knew that members of the Order often frequented the establishment for the safety it provided in not admitting known Death Eaters on premises… Not that they often showed their faces in public once discovered. Nonetheless, it was not a conversation that he had intended on having gone even this long. He was beginning to lose his temper, which was something he found all too often an occurrence when forced to interact with Peter one-on-one and without the added support of Sirius and Remus to keep him in check. Calm yourself, James. “Yes, or no.” The beady little eyes of Peter Pettigrew studied his sausage-like fingers before once again meeting those of his long-time friend, “I- I suppose. I would be honored.” Chapter End Notes I absolutely despise Peter Pettigrew. He is a horrendous creature, to say the least. There will be more of him in this fic, for he has a part to play. But goodness he gives me the creeps, and I hate having to involve him- But involve him, I must. As for James and Lily, I feel they're both uncomfortable and acting pretty appropriately given the circumstances right now. And though I am not saying I trust James or like him- I DON'T! He is making an effort for now at playing nice. Song for this round: Mama,_I'm_Coming_Home_-_Ozzy_Osbourne ***** Phoenix Feather ***** Chapter Summary Months go by... Lily falls into a routine of sorts with James. An invitation posed by Frank and Alice offers the lovers a reunion and the welcomed presence for a very special occasion. Chapter Notes Another rather LONG chapter. See the end of the chapter for more notes “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” -Maya Angelou [feather] July_of_1980 Four months rolled by at an unforeseen pace. Sometimes it was speedy, and other times it seemed unbearably slow. There was scarcely a word between Lily or Severus during their time of separation, both understanding it to be in their best interest to not push their luck when it came to their already precarious situation. Albus Dumbledore was absent from the meetings of the Order of the Phoenix- Not anything unusual, given his dedication to the role of Headmaster at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. That, however, did not stop his cryptic news from reaching their meetings when it came to Severus’ recent role. Kingsley Shacklebolt, who often ran the meetings in their leader’s absence, had made it abundantly clear more than once. “Dumbledore writes that there will be ‘changes within the Dark Lords ranks’… He speaks of an ‘eye within.’” “All plans are going forward as expected,” he told them one recent evening, “I have been rreceiving regular reports, and can assure you that the mole is a ‘wealth of knowledge’ and continues ‘stockpiling information’ for our efforts at succeeding in this war.” If only she knew that he was safe. The living situation with James, while uncomfortable, and less than ideal, had proven surprisingly better than she had initially suspected. Though there was no doubt in her mind that he hoped for their reunion, she knew better than to be led astray. Severus was her everything now, and despite any prior feelings she may have coaxed herself into believing at one time, Lily knew better than to let her loneliness take advantage when she was in such a vulnerable state. Though James Potter was certainly trying- Pulling out all the stops, no less… She had eyes for only one wizard, no matter how guilty her ex-husband might make her feel. Severus was risking his life in ways that none of them could imagine or comprehend in severity, while they all remained in relative safety. There were times, when in meetings for the Order, that her mind would wander all together. She couldn't help wondering about where he was, what he was doing, and whether he thought about her from time to time. She was certain that he did, but it didn’t make anything easier. It was after one of their most recent meetings that Frank Longbottom pulled her quietly aside before his departure, “Alice is nearing her time, you know.” Lily felt a pang of heartbreak at having been kept away from her best friend, even if it meant the better likelihood of safety for both parties. “Knowing Alice, I'm sure she’s ready.” He had laughed, “You are correct… She’s miserable with the late stages that pregnancy include, and counts the days until she can hold our baby in her arms.” “I can’t wait to meet him or her,” Lily smiled, a little sadly. “That is what I meant to speak with you about,” he continued, “I know that Dumbledore has meant your placement with James as a means to ‘keep up appearances,’ and to allow for safety with the circumstances surrounding- Well, you remember them just as well as we do.” He paused, “But I have been in recent correspondence with him, and he has agreed to a lapse in said stipulations for the time being.” Lily stared at her best friend’s husband, waiting for more. “He has said that you may come stay with us at my parents’ until Alice gives birth.” “He has?!” Frank smiled, “Alice was rather insistent upon it… You know how she can be. And well, she really hasn’t been her same usual and cheery self since you’ve taken up residence elsewhere. She needs you, Lily. I know that I’m her husband, and that I’m just as important as any man could be given our situation, but it’s different… She wants to have a familiar face besides mine there, and well, I agree. It seems foolish for you to be kept so far away when you’ve been there since the very beginning when it came to her pregnancy. You’re like a part of our little family, and it really hasn’t felt the same without you being there with us.” Lily felt her heart warm with his kind words, a building excitement growing within her at the thought of being reunited with her best friend for such a momentous occasion. How could she refuse? And if Dumbledore had said that it was a reasonable and allowed exception to their decided living situation, she could see no reason that would keep her away. “When would you like for me to come?” “As soon as you would like,” he told her, and lowering his voice, “I hope you will not be offended, but we have asked that Dumbledore extend the invitation to a certain individual as well, hoping that they may also be able to find the time to break away from prior commitments.” Lily stared at him in confusion. He couldn’t mean- He didn’t know… Frank licked his lips, casting a wary glance around them to make sure that they continued to remain very much alone, “Alice finally indulged the information which you had been concealing- It was only with permission from Dumbledore, though. Please don’t be angry with her or myself…” He knows about Sev. She couldn’t pretend that she was entirely surprised. Alice had promised to keep her secret hidden, but from her husband had not been an easy feat. It wasn't anything that Lily could be upset with, for she trusted the pair of them completely, and was certain that it had only been after careful consideration that Alice had even sought an answer from their former Headmaster in regards to the question. She knew that Dumbledore would have certainly been unsurprised- He had the uncanny ability to seemingly know everything before it was truly revealed. But perhaps he had felt something resembling proudness in the fact that Alice would ask his permission before telling Lily's secret to someone she had pledged marital vows to. None of this made Lily any less surprised, though she was glad to see that Frank appeared welcoming in nature- Certainly enough to have somehow reached out to the person who meant so much to her in a friendly invitation. But would he come? Lily had scarcely heard from Severus since being parted from him at the Hog’s Head Inn on the cold night of the blizzard. She had known him to be safe, for she had been given no reason to suspect otherwise when it came to his well- being. Letters arrived once a month, and were usually only a few short words in length. I’m alive. I miss you. I love you. I long to see you again. Every time a note had arrived Lily felt as though her heart had skipped a beat. She carefully balanced the line of contentment and dread as she sliced open the seal and removed the parchment with each delivery and passing moment. Would he be alive or dead? When would they finally see each other again? Was it all for naught? “Will you come?” “Hmm…?” Lily managed, returning to reality. “Both Alice and I would love to have you come and stay with us until the baby is born, if it is something you wouldn’t mind…” he repeated. “Of course!” she beamed, “How could I possibly say no?!” “And you aren’t upset about-?” “No, no…” she said quickly, “If Dumbledore has expressed his ease in the both of you knowing, as well as extending the invitation, then I have no reason to feel anything except gratitude at the kindness you both have once again bestowed upon me.” “Excellent!” Frank smiled, “We will await your arrival.” Now to just let James know. Even though they had resumed living together, things had not changed between them when it came to their personal relationship. The cottage and Godric’s Hollow was not an uncomfortable place to reside in- To even call home for that matter, but it was no longer their home. And they were no longer lovers or even friends… They were acquaintances, and that was a fact that Lily had never let stray very far from her mind. Despite all of this, they had managed to rebuild some… Though it was really only enough to keep them on a comfortable roommate basis. Both of them had their needs and wants in life, and though James attempted to include Lily in his, she remained decidedly distant. It was in the old bedroom that they had once shared, that she stashed the short notes Severus had sent to her, and where she often contemplated her future. How much longer? Where was he at that very moment? Meanwhile, James’ questions of what they would have for dinner, or who’s turn it was to clean the bathroom seemed ridiculously unimportant compared to those internal thoughts and moments of loneliness They had Aparated separately to the abode in Godric’s Hollow, Lily returning first to the empty house and starting a fire at once to heat the chilled space. James’ entrance was loud and immediately known, the door closing just a little too hard behind him. They went about their usual evening routine in much the same fashion as always, with the pair of them eventually finding themselves seated upon opposite ends of the sofa. “I’m not sure what Dumbledore’s thinking about trusting a Death Eater, or whatever he’s got going on with You-Know-Who’s army…” James said after a long, though not uncomfortable, silence had fallen between them, “What do you think?” “I’m not sure,” Lily managed, selecting her words carefully, and not looking at her ex-husband as she spoke, “But I’m sure he knows what he’s doing… Dumbledore’s always had a keenness for understanding things that most of us have a hard time comprehending or giving vision to. If he sees value in such an alliance, then I’m sure that it will prove exceedingly valuable to our efforts in ending this terrible war.” “What if he’s wrong?” “I don’t know.” Another silence fell between them before James again spoke, “I owe you an apology.” “For what?” Lily questioned, finally looking at him, her expression filled with honest confusion. “For what I said to you when I was drunk and barged in at Frank and Alice’s house,” he began, “Sirius had warned me that I would only make things worse, and he was right.” Yes, he was. “But I didn’t care,” he continued, “I wanted to make you hurt just as much as I was… And I was bloody stupid for acting like such a fool. It seems I’ve always acted a complete fool when it comes to you, Lily. You’d think I’d have learned a thing or two in the time that we were married,” and he paused at the difficulty that the last word brought him, “But I guess it shows that I haven’t. I’m still just as much that toe-rag you hated in school, and I deserve everything that’s come my way. Sorry isn’t enough… I've treated you horribly and I never listened to you enough.” “James- “ “I’m not asking for your forgiveness right now,” he interrupted her, “I know I’m not worthy of it... But I just wanted to let you know that I understand that I was wrong in saying the things that I did, and in acting the way that I have… I hope that someday we both can find happiness. But Lily, I’d be lying if I said I believe I’ll ever be quite as happy with anyone besides you.” She bit her lip, “Thank you.” He nodded and turned back to stare into the fire. “Frank asked me if I would be willing to stay with them for a few weeks until the baby is born,” she said at last, the words feeling odd as they fell into the space between them after the intensity of James Potter’s confession, “It would seem that Dumbledore has approved of such, and I just wanted to let you know that it is my intention to go and be present.” “I think that’s nice.” “You- What?” He chuckled, “Alice is your best friend, and I think that it’s nice of them to ask for you to be privy to such a monumental moment in their lives. The fact that Dumbledore has approved of your return to them for such, seems only natural. Were you expecting I would try and keep you here?” “I’m not sure what I was expecting,” she readily admitted. “When will you be off?” “Tomorrow afternoon, I suspect.” He nodded, “Then I wish you a most pleasant holiday of sorts.” =============================================================================== Lily’s arrival at the home of Frank’s parents, Augusta and Robert Longbottom, was well received. She had met Frank ahead of time, as to accompany him to the location, given its concealment with a Fidelius Charm to match that of the one on James’ home in Godric’s Hollow. Once inside the posh Victorian-inspired home, Lily was greeted as a long-lost family member at once. Despite her incredible size, Alice hefted herself from the antique chaise and caught Lily in a strong hug. The two women giggled at their reunion, besides themselves with happiness. It wasn’t long before their laughter dissolved into tears, their embrace turned one of much more need rather than joy. Frank escorted his parents from the room, quietly mentioning that he would make proper introductions after the ladies had a moment to themselves. “Oh Lily, I’m so sorry!” Alice exclaimed, wiping her eyes, tears still shimmering unshed, “It’s not like I haven’t seen you since everything happened… But goodness I miss you!” “I know, Alice,” Lily smiled, heart heavy at their exchange, “Sometimes I just feel so lost.” “How has everything been? How is it being back there with James?” “Oh, I don’t know.” Lily let out a heavy sigh, “He’s not terrible… It’s just the arrangement and the circumstances surrounding it. I don’t want to be there any longer than I have to be, but he’s up to something.” Alice frowned deeply with worry, leading her best friend over to the sofa and sitting. “I don’t think anything malicious,” Lily clarified, noting her friend’s expression, “But he wants me… Possibly even still loves me. It’s just awkward and less than ideal.” “Well, I’m glad that you’re here with us now,” she smiled, “It’s how it should be. Though I was afraid you might not come after learning that I had divulged your secret… I’m sorry, Lily.” “Alice, I should have never expected you to keep it from Frank. It was a lot to ask, though I appreciate you keeping my confidence for as long as you did. You never had to.” She laughed, “It wasn’t easy, but I would do it all again if you asked me.” “Have you heard anything from him?” Smirking wickedly, “Of whom do you inquire?” Lily swatted her playfully on the shoulder, “Stop it!” Alice rolled her eyes, “Fine. He’s expected this evening. Dumbledore has already briefed the four of us in regards to the necessity of remaining silent upon the subject of his time spent under Augusta and Robert’s roof. While Frank and I are certain that acting as though it was only you who came to stay during the time leading up to the baby’s birth, my in-laws have selected to have their memories altered at the end of your time spent here.” “Obliviate?” Lily questioned. Alice nodded, “They have no argument about him coming to stay, and find his sacrifices very admirable in the face of assisting both the Ministry of Magic and the Order of the Phoenix. They just would hate to be the ones held responsible for possibly leaking information that could in any way be traced back to Severus as a source.” “That’s very kind of them.” She shrugged, “They’re wonderful people. I’m only sorry we frightened them from the room with our happiness at seeing each other again…” “Should we join them?” “In a moment,” Alice smiled, “Lily, I doubt Frank told you, but I just wanted to say ‘thank you’ again for agreeing to come and stay. I’d be lying if I told you I was anything but nervous when it came to the actual birth… Honestly, I’m terrified. I know it sounds silly, and I shouldn’t be- Everyone keeps telling me that everything will go swimmingly. ‘Women have been having babies since the dawn of time, why would it be any different for you?’ Blah, blah, blah. Lily, I could die.” “Alice- “ “No,” she continued, holding a hand up to silence her best friend, “I could. And while unlikely, I need to ask you something. Will you be the Godmother?” Lily’s frame and features softened at the question, and she took Alice’s hands in hers, “Of course! I would be honored. But you’re going to be fine, I want you to know that.” “I hope so,” she smiled, “At least I’ll have you to hold my hand with Frank for support.” It wasn’t until very late in the evening that Severus Snape arrived to the hidden home of Augusta and Robert Longbottom. He had made certain to arrive under cover of darkness, and on a night plagued by lack of a moon. The true owners of the house had long retired for bed, but Alice and Frank had remained up and waiting beside Lily for the moment their last guest would arrive. With the light knock upon the door, Frank was up with wand drawn in an instant, stalking off to make certain that everything was as it seemed. Lily and Alice had remained in the sitting room, eyes staring off in the direction that Frank had disappeared, waiting with held breath. When Frank reappeared he was smiling, hands tucked into his pockets as he moved to sit beside his heavily pregnant wife. In the next moment a dark figure stepped into the dim light of the doorway. Long and sweeping black robes and pale skin, deep dark eyes, and jet-black hair that was pulled back away from the face. There was a hint of shadow upon his cheeks, and though a little thinner than normal, Severus Snape seemed much the same man as the one Lily had last seen some months ago in Hosmeade. When their eyes met they instinctively seemed to lock in unspoken understanding and comprehension. Both of them were alive and well despite all odds, all obstacles continually placed in their path. Lily rose from her seat and crossed the space between them, her hands reaching out and taking hold of his. Cold but very much there. It was as though she had to touch him to make certain that he wasn’t just some cruel figment of her imagination playing tricks upon her. “I was starting to believe I’d never see you again,” she heard herself tell him in something of a half-whisper. He gently reached up, fingertips grazing the soft curve of her neck as he brushed a stray auburn curl behind one ear, “You know nothing could ever keep me away from you.” “Ahem,” Alice coughed pointedly, and Lily blushed a deep shade of crimson. “Sev, I would like for you to meet Frank and Alice Longbottom,” Lily introduced, “They are my very best friends, and have been the most kind and understanding to me since the very beginning.” Frank stood and extended his hand, smiling, “Already met at the front door, but no harm in a repeat?” Severus nodded, taking the hand and shaking it firmly, “Agreed. Thank you for your invitation. Though unnecessary and unexpected, I appreciate any opportunity to see Lily, and of course, those who mean a great deal to her.” Alice smiled, “She speaks very highly of you.” “Alice-!” Lily blushed again, eyes lowering to the floor as she felt her cheeks burn. Severus chuckled lowly, arm loosely encircling Lily as he sought a seat in the room. “My beautiful wife- “ Frank motioned theatrically. “I feel more like a balloon that’s about to pop,” she sighed, straightening, “You’ll forgive me for not greeting you like a proper lady, I hope? I’m Alice.” “It’s a pleasure,” Severus told her with a nod of the head, sitting beside Lily on the sofa situated opposite Frank and Alice’s. “Can I get you anything to drink? Or a bite to eat?” Frank questioned, motioning instinctively towards the kitchen. “No thank you,” Severus told him, “For the moment I am content with just sitting awhile.” He nodded and rejoined Alice on their sofa, an arm affectionately slipping around her shoulders. “How long will you be staying?” Lily asked him. “Well… That depends,” he began, “At the moment I am under no obligation unless summoned, which would only be in the instance of something immensely important occurring. Unlikely from what has been going on. So I am, in a way, your servant.” “You are welcome to stay as long as you’d like,” Frank interjected. “Thank you,” he replied, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth, “You are both very kind. Please do not think of me as ungrateful, it just takes some time for me to find myself completely at ease… The expectations and façade I have been balancing sometimes take a little time to break down. I would hate for any of you to believe otherwise.” “It’s understandable,” Alice smiled kindly, “What you’re managing is something none of us could fathom, and I can only imagine what kind of stresses it might put upon both body and mind. Just know that our kindness is reflective upon our gratitude for the sacrifices that you are making, and the strength we can only imagine that it takes to put yourself regularly and readily in such a dangerous position. We wish for your stay to be as enjoyable as possible, and for you to know that you are welcome to anything within our home.” Though outwardly Severus showed his usual proper and starched exterior, Lily could tell that just a bit of his usual ice towards anyone other than herself seemed to be melting. =============================================================================== It had been just shy of two weeks that Severus and Lily had been staying with the Longbottom clan, when a scream sounded through the old house in the middle of the night. Lily’s eyes were still blurry from sleep as she sat upright in bed, her red hair falling in messy curls around her. Severus had been silent in his movements, though far more prepared for whatever nightmare might be awaiting them in the once quiet of the night. His wand was immediately in hand as he gently pushed Lily behind him; allowing his adrenaline to propel him into defense and ready action. “Sev?” Lily yawned, “What do you think-?” He silenced her questions with a kiss, and then pressed his index finger to her rosy lips as he rose from the bed to slip on his black robes. “I need you to stay here.” She pouted, the expression enough to pause him. “What if it’s Alice?!” “And what if it’s not?” he shot back. A pounding sounded upon their bedroom door and he swung back around, wand raised and teeth bared in a silent growl, his chest, and the light dusting of dark hair upon it, visible beneath his unfastened robes. Lily stirred from her place on the bed, pulling the blankets up and around her naked form, reaching for her wand that still lay on the nightstand nearest her, and the dark-framed glasses she sometimes wore first thing in the morning, or just before bed. “It’s Frank!” Severus cursed under his breath as he unlocked the door and wrenched it open to face the wizard in the hallway. Frank Longbottom appeared just as frazzled and on edge as the rest of them, his thinning hair standing on end in places, and his robes bearing a mixture of pajamas and forgetfulness in his rush to become decent. For a moment he and Severus stared at one another in silent consideration, both of them slowly lowering their wands at the sight of the other. “Frank?” Lily questioned, and Severus turned slightly to look at her, allowing Frank the ability to see her as well, “Is everything alright?” “It’s Alice,” he sputtered, “She, uh… It’s time!” “Where is she?” “Our room,” he managed, and seeing Lily rising from the bed, clinging to the blankets, he turned around politely to allow her the privacy of dressing, “She needs you… Says she can’t do it without the both of us there.” Lily dropped the blankets and pulled on one of Severus’ grey T-shirts and then a pair of underwear and her own robes. Not wasting the time in fastening them completely, she left them open in much the same manner as her two male companions. Reaching for a hair-tie, she then threw her hair up into a messy bun, “Well she’s going to have one hell of a time with both of us being here!” Frank laughed, though it sounded more nervous than anything. “I love you,” Lily told Severus, pressing a kiss to his lips, a hand finding its way briefly to the bareness of his chest. “Is there anything I can do, Frank?” he asked, Lily slipping out into the hallway. “My father’s waiting outside of the room if you’d care to join him in a while,” the anxious soon-to-be-father managed, “I’m sure Alice will want everyone to see the baby when it’s time.” That was all they could say because another scream shook the house in that instant, and Frank took off running in the direction of his wife, Lily close on his heels. “MERLIN’S MOTHERFUCKING BEARD!!! GODDAMN IT, WHERE ARE YOU FRANK?!” It had not been long after their appearance in the bedroom that the mousy- haired woman seemingly relaxed, her mother in-law still blushing from the explicit outburst that had left her daughter in-law’s lips. Both Frank and Lily took a tight hold upon Alice’s hands, her grip harder still, and within the hour a baby had been born. There had been screaming, blood, sweat, and tears shed by all… And the addition of a beautiful and perfect baby boy. Alice had sobbed when he was placed within her arms, swaddled in a white and blue blanket, his little features all perfect in every way- A vision of both his mother and father in combined miniature. “He’s so handsome,” Lily whispered, fingertip lightly caressing his tiny hand. “He’s perfection,” Frank told his wife with an affectionate kiss to her cheek, turning to wipe his eyes. “My little Neville. My darling boy.” When they had managed a few quiet first moments of reflection, of careful examination that he had all ten fingers and toes- Not that they would have minded if one was missing or added… They allowed the addition of Augusta and Robert to come and see their new grandson, and the quiet shuffling presence of Severus bringing up the rear. “This arrived for you shortly after the delivery,” he told them, passing the envelope to Frank. The new parents exchanged an expression of surprise, with Frank eventually opening the unmarked letter and extracting a small note of parchment. “What does it say?” Alice asked, cradling her sleeping son in her arms, her face alight with happiness. “It’s from Dumbledore,” Frank told the room, “He wishes to be the first to congratulate us on the awaited delivery of our new addition.” “That’s very sweet,” Augusta beamed, her eyes filled with nothing but pride for the little baby. “There’s more,” Frank added, and reaching into the envelope he extracted the most beautiful scarlet plume any of them had scarcely ever laid eyes upon. “What is that?” Robert Longbottom questioned, squinting. “A Phoenix feather,” Severus answered, his own voice betraying a hint of awe. “They’re very rare,” Lily added, eyes glued to the glorious plume. Frank nodded, “He says, ‘A plume worthy of a babe with such promise for the future.’” Chapter End Notes So I've said this a bunch, but dammit, I freaking adore Frank and Alice. Obviously they are not the traitors to the Order of the Phoenix, just making that abundantly clear. Over 2000+ hits!!! I love you all, thank you so much for continuing to read and bestowing kudos and comments upon this fic. Song: I_Don't_Want_To_Miss_A_Thing_-_Aerosmith ***** Evil Incarnate ***** Chapter Summary Voldemort has a meeting with Bellatrix Lestrange. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “It’s really a wonder that I haven’t dropped all my ideals, because they seem so absurd and impossible to carry out. Yet I keep them, because in spite of everything, I still believe that people are really good at heart.” -Anne Frank [candle] August_of_1980 The interior of the Malfoy Mansion was dim, candles and lamps emitting a dull yellow glow throughout the grand interior of the space. As with most evenings, Lucius Malfoy sat up in his study managing his various affairs. To run such a sprawling estate certainly took up a great deal of his time, but with the addition of his newborn son, it was a welcome quiet. Draco was the heir that he and Narcissa had hoped for, a healthy boy with a destiny for great things- A future that would be made bright and full of splendor thanks to the efforts of the Dark Lord. The link between the Malfoys and the Blacks was an obvious choice when it had come to the marital connection of Lucius and Narcissa. Both of their lineages were two of the oldest, and boasted ‘untainted’ bloodlines when it came to so many others. While Lucius was an only child, raised in the very house he now took responsibility for, his wife had been the youngest of three sisters. They had both attended Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry together, with Lucius beginning his education at the ancient institution in 1965, and Narcissa starting hers in 1966. Theirs had not been a love at first sight romance. Lucius had always been far too immersed in his responsibilities when it came to his schoolwork, and later his appointment of Prefect. But Narcissa had long watched the tall and silvery- blonde man from afar, and his poise and undeniable lofty-air had been nothing short of extremely attractive to her. In time, he had taken notice of the quiet Slytherin that was a year younger than himself. She kept popping up when he least expected it, and with time little features unique to only her had become ingrained in his every thought and daydream. When it wasn’t her two-toned blonde and deep brown hair, it was her dark eyes and the ruby-red lipstick she had taken to painting upon her lips. Despite his arrogance- And Lucius knew himself to be arrogant at times; a trait he had always considered himself deserving of, given his place of high-birth in the magical world- They had somehow managed to realize the mutual attraction and feelings between them. The rest had been history. “Lucius,” a sing-song voice greeted, pulling him from his memories. Looking up from his desk he saw the shadowy figure of his sister in-law, Bellatrix Lestrange. Her slightly bulging eyes were heavily-lidded, her dark hair a disaster of ringlets seemingly blown about her head with no rhyme-or- reason of arrangement. She had been three years older than himself, a curious individual well-remembered from his first few years at Hogwarts. Even in her youth she had been something of an unpredictable and cruel individual. It had only been around her sisters, Andromeda and Narcissa, that she had ever seemingly transformed into something resembling a distant form of normalcy. She had been one of the first to align with the Dark Lord in his steady rise of power, she and the likes of her husband Rodolphus Lestrange, and his brother Rabastan Lestrange. “I was unaware that you were calling upon us this evening,” Lucius responded, his features revealing nothing of the surprise or irritation that he felt at her unannounced presence. “The Dark Lord has bid my presence for a meeting.” “Funny,” he told her coolly, “He never mentioned such to myself.” “Well, I’m supposing that he didn’t find it any of your business,” she smirked. This is my house… “How is my Cissy?” “Motherhood seems to suit her well,” Lucius drawled, his grey eyes surveying his sister in-law with unwavering distrust mixed with dislike, “She is never far from our son.” “After seeing to the Dark Lord, I think I shall go and peek in on them,” she grinned crazily, “My little Draco should know his only Auntie.” “Have you forgotten about Andromeda?” The transformation which overcame Bellatrix was immediate, “Filthy blood- traitor!” She spat out the words as though her middle sister had never meant anything or been anything other than disgusting or a disgrace to everything that she ever held dear in her life, “She made her bed with the House of Black when she decided to run off and marry that Mudblood… She is no sister of mine or Cissy’s!” Lucius smirked at the reaction, always satisfied to put his unpleasant relation in her place when the right moment presented itself, “A shame that the once noble House of Black has to contend with so many recent cases of embarrassing associations with members seemingly caring nothing about their bloodlines and the importance of maintaining such ancestry into future generations.” He had hit a nerve. That much was apparent from the shaking anger that seemed to well up within the very bones, the very being of the witch that stood before him. “You cannot deny the treachery of your sister, or of your cousin- “ “They are nothing to any of us,” she seethed. “And yet they still live and breathe,” Lucius continued, “It must be something of a slap to the face to know that a traitor like Sirius Black still holds the surname of your forefathers, and that despite his allegiances to the Order of the Phoenix, he is the heir to your family line.” “If only Regulus hadn’t perished,” she sighed, disgust in her voice at the truth behind her brother in-law’s words regarding the position that her cousin held, “Sirius is just as much a blood-traitor as my sister… He was disowned years ago, much like Andromeda after we learned of their intentions at soiling our family’s good name.” “Pity they will forever be a tarnished spot upon your name.” Bellatrix opened her mouth to retort, determined to continue in their discussion and the defense of her family, but she was silenced by the chiming of the grandfather clock as the new hour arrived. She glared at Lucius, snapping her jaw shut, and then turned on her heel to make her exit from the study and continue to the sitting room for her meeting with Voldemort. The room was warm, a low-burning fire in the enormous fireplace, and two high- backed chairs pulled up into the radiant light emitted from the flames. Nagini lay coiled loosely by Voldemort’s feet, lifting her scaled green head in an alerting ‘hiss’ at Bellatrix’s entrance. The pale and sinister Dark Wizard arose from his seat at her entrance, the door closing behind her. She was on her knees upon the floor, the large and imposing snake beside her, though showing no fear at its presence. “Master,” she greeted, head bowed in a sign of respect. “Arise,” he told her in is hushed, though high-pitched voice, motioning for her to take a seat in the upholstered chair opposite his. She obliged, sitting with her arms and hands resting upon the arms of the chair, and unmistakable tremble exuding from the tips of her fingers. “Your efforts at recruitment have not gone unnoticed,” he told her, “Though I must admit that I had hoped for more when it came to the list we had formulated for your task.” “Master, I- “ He waved a hand to silence her, “It is not entirely your fault. I know you to be dedicated in your efforts, and I had high hopes for the addition of the individuals that we sought. There was potential amongst all of them to help bolster our ranks and our desirability to the masses. But some things just cannot be… They will all quake with fear when they realize the magnitude of their decisions to refuse us. Even the Mudbloods and Half-Bloods who would have been rewarded with life! Even if it meant a life in servitude.” “You are right, Master,” she nodded, “Thank you, Master.” He folded his long slender fingers together upon his lap, red eyes unwavering in their stare at his longest lieutenant before him, “Have you been questioning your position lately, Bellatrix? Have you seen me as unfair in my leadership?” The look which came over her was one comparable to if she had just been violently slapped, “No, Master! Never!” “I feel as though both yourself and Lucius may have felt as though I had granted Severus an unfair task in our last meeting,” he continued, “Do not deny it, for it was explicitly clear, and I will not hear lies escape any of my lieutenant’s lips. I have need for the both of you- The three of you, still. And despite your failures at the last assignment I entrusted you with, I know that this next task will be far more to your liking in more ways than one.” She licked her lips, waiting. “As you know, Severus returned from his assignment a few months ago,” the Dark Wizard began, “And in his time away from us and the other Death Eaters, he learned some very important information- Things that will undoubtedly shape our cause in necessary means to ensure our victory over the Ministry of Magic and the other simple-minded fools that believe in equality for all kinds of magical beings and creatures alike. Do you know what his task involved?” “You had mentioned spying upon the supposed leader of the Order of the Phoenix,” she told him. He nodded, “Yes, that is correct. And as you are aware, we now know my suspicions to be very much accurate. Albus Dumbledore oversees the group of individuals which seek to defy our rebuilding of a new and better world… Something that must be dealt with before we may seek to reshape the Ministry and other age-old institutions that have for too long held sway over the ‘proper’ way witches and wizards see to their day-to-day lives. We must reward those for their pride in blood-purity, and punish those who seek to eliminate it. Whilst observing Dumbledore, Severus learned a very key bit of information that even I could have not predicted. And while I am not entirely concerned with such trivial things as ‘Prophecies’ when it comes to magic, this one was startling even to myself.” “What was it, Master?” He searched her face, noting the spark of fear that had suddenly appeared in her eyes, “I have not yet spoken of it to Lucius, though he will not remain uninformed as to the content for much longer… Severus only heard the beginning portion; how much remains I am not certain, though I would argue that it is enough to go on for now, and possibly forever. What he overheard was: ‘The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches… Born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh moth dies…’” She gasped, “Master?!” “Yes, Bella? What do you take it to mean?” “A… A baby?” He smiled, his lips and face contorting into a frightening expression much more resembling something of nightmares rather than amusement, “It would seem that a child has been born with stronger magic than our world has scarcely ever seen… A prodigy of sorts that might prove to rival the abilities of any of the greatest wizards of all time.” “Never yours, Master.” “A foolish statement,” he frowned, and she shrunk back into the chair with a cringe, “Despite the unreliable nature of seers and divination, there has not been a true Prophecy told since the time of the great Cassandra Trelawney; a witch truly renowned for her abilities. And while I might normally think in much the same way as yourself, this was not just any witch who spoke of what might come to pass… This was a relation of that same great seer of old.” “What are we to do, Master?” “You,” he began pointedly, “Are to do me a great service, as I know you to be able to perform.” “Anything!” “You will need to rally a team once more,” he began, “The same individuals utilized for your last assignment will be fine. When you have adequately prepared yourselves, it is my intention that you are to break into St. Mungos and retrieve the records pertaining to the births of all magical children born at the end of this past month. This is only the first step.” “And what is the second step, Master?” “We will begin the process of crossing every name off of the list in due time,” he told her, “Though it will be of my deepest regret to purge our world of the potential great minds born to a new generation, they are only a few…” “All-?” Bellatrix breathed, eyes widening with fear that was for her recently born nephew. “No, Bella.” His words were quiet, his voice momentarily filled with something vaguely reminiscent of a soothing nature, “Only those fitting the parameters of the Prophecy as overheard by Severus. Those whose parents have ‘thrice defied’ me. It will take some time to figure out, though the records will certainly speed up the process immensely when it comes to cross-referencing with known supporters of the Order of the Phoenix, and others who have pledged insolence to my cause. I assure you that little Draco Malfoy is safe from the culling.” Though she attempted to hide it, the visible relief she felt at Voldemort’s confirmation that her nephew would be safe was undeniable upon her face, “It will teach them to see reason… If it means the elimination of their children, they will have to see why they must join our cause!” “Precisely,” he nodded. “Master?” He waited for her question. “How are we to formulate a list to cross names off of in regards to the information that we receive from the records at St. Mungo’s? We have no true confirmation of the members of the Order of the Phoenix, and we would want to make certain to select the correct newborns when following through with this task- Wouldn’t want one to slip through the cracks.” “I am certain that we will not have a problem with managing that,” he told her emotionlessly, “There have been some very unexpected updates recently… Occurrences that I do not yet wish to divulge in their origin to even you or the other lieutenants. But rest assure, dear Bella, that there is a rat within the Order of the Phoenix, and the allegiance that they are proving to our cause is not one to be overlooked. It will only be a matter of time until we have what we want.” Chapter End Notes DUN DUN DUN... Song of choice- A big favorite from my days in high school: Sister_-_She_Wants_Revenge ***** A Secret ***** Chapter Summary James makes a discovery. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “If I said I was madly in love with you, you’d know I was lying.” -Margaret Mitchell [prongs] “He is a handsome little lad,” Lily smiled at her best friend cradling her newborn son. “And smart too!” Alice exclaimed, staring at her son with adoration, “Though I can’t prove it, I’m quite certain he swaddles himself tighter than Frank and I leave him.” “He’s already exhibiting his magic- That’s amazing!” “I never knew I could feel so strongly towards anything or anyone in all my life,” Alice told her, “It’s astonishing sometimes… Do you think you and Severus will have one?” “One-?” “A baby!” Lily blushed deeply, finding herself at a loss for words, “I- Umm… Well, I’m not sure. We haven’t exactly spoken about it.” It was at that moment that Neville’s eyes popped open and widened. He began to scream and fuss in usual infant distress, ending all conversation between the two women. Alice cooed and patted him, humming and trying all of the usual tricks she had recently become so familiar with. While being a usually calm and easy baby, there were certainly moments such and these that left her at a loss. He would wail and writhe with abandon for seemingly no reason, leaving her struggling to figure out a way to return him to his usual relaxed self. “You might need to go get Frank,” she told Lily above the shrieks of the newborn, “He might just need his Daddy…” “May I?” Both women spun around in surprise, not having heard the entrance over Neville’s fussing. Severus had slipped into the room in his usual dark garb, his dark hair hanging a touch longer than usual, just past his shoulders. Wordlessly, Alice rose and passed the unruly infant to the tall and slight man, Lily watching with equal intrigue. Severus cradled the boy with a somewhat strange familiarity, rocking and bouncing him gently, before quietly singing something in his low and deep voice. “Paid ag ofni, dim ond deilen Gura, gura ar y ddôr; Paid ag ofni, ton fach unig Sua, sua ar lan y môr; Huna blentyn, nid oes yma Ddim i roddi iti fraw; Gwena'n dawel yn fy mynwes. Ar yr engyl gwynion draw.” It was mesmerizing in a way, and both women stared entranced by the calmness and gentleness of the former Death Eater before them. In the nearly three weeks that Lily and Severus had spent in the home of Augusta and Robert Longbottom, a change had overcome Lily’s oldest friend. Though he remained distant and quiet about his tasks and the goings-on surrounding the innermost workings of Voldemort and his followers, he had slowly become more and more friendly towards Frank and Alice. Was it because they had proven to mean so much to her? Or was it because of the kindness that they had shown towards him in allowing him to stay in their family home without questioning his loyalty? Somehow it no longer mattered. However, it remained remarkably the tenderness he was showing to the tiny baby boy. As soon as he had begun, Neville had quieted, watching with an entranced expression upon his face, and by the final words he had nearly fallen asleep. Silently, Severus then passed Neville back into Alice’s arms and turned to take his leave from the room. Before Alice had an opportunity to say anything, Lily was on her feet and following closely at his heels. When the two of them were very much alone in the hallway outside of the sitting room, she finally managed her question, “What was that?” He smiled, “My mother used to sing it to me when I was a child. I guess I’ve never forgotten it, though I can scarcely do it justice in comparison to her own singing.” “I thought it was lovely.” “Thank you,” he replied, “The Princes had ties to Wales, so I think it was a means for her to remember where she came from, as well as remind her of better times.” “Alice asked me if we would ever consider having a baby,” the words had left Lily’s mouth before she had realized it, and she blushed deeply, knowing that she couldn’t reach out and snatch them back. A curious twinkle appeared in his dark eyes for a moment, along with an amused smirk. “I- I…” “What did you tell her?” “That we hadn’t exactly discussed such matters,” she managed, cheeks hot with embarrassment, “And then Neville- “ He took a step towards her, the radiant heat from his body easily felt by her in the close confines of the corridor in which they stood, his voice sounded deeper, though the words he spoke were scarcely more than a whisper in volume, “Lily are you suggesting that you would like to have a child?” “I don’t- No. I mean, well- “ She looked anywhere besides his eyes which were seemingly staring holes into her, “Merlin’s beard…” she sighed, “Fuck, Sev- “ His hands went to her waist and suddenly his lips were very close to her ear. She felt dizzy from her proximity to him, the heat of his breath sending goosebumps upon her skin and eliciting a growing sense of desire and budding heat slowly inching downward through her core. She felt the need for friction and pressed her thighs together, a momentary solution for the need that she truly sought. “Perhaps that is what we should do,” he told her in a low growl, “It would seem that a good fucking might be exactly what you want.” =============================================================================== It felt that as soon as their time together had begun, it had already started a timer to when they would be forced to part again. It was not all bad news, however. Though Lily would need to return to Godric’s Hollow and the cottage that she unfortunately shared with her ex-husband, a promising change had occurred where Severus was concerned. Augusta and Robert, Frank’s parents had reconsidered their need of Memory Charms for the time being, and with the added agreement of Frank and Alice, they had decided to open up their home to Lily’s lover. He had declined politely at first, though after Albus Dumbledore had agreed to the situation everything had moved quickly. It would be a temporary arrangement, for that was only appropriate given the dangerous factors surrounding all of them. But it was agreed upon that if Severus was willing, he would have a place to stay until the first of November. The news had filled Lily with utmost happiness, knowing that to slip away to Frank and Alice’s would be a much more reasonable explanation for her absence than a mere traveling holiday of sorts. For one thing, James was much more likely to be understanding in her leaving of the cottage if it meant to spend time with known supporters of the Order of the Phoenix who would be obliged to assist in protecting her. Nonetheless, returning to Godric’s Hollow had been nothing short of bittersweet when it came to abandoning her dearest friends, their newborn son, and the man she loved behind. Goodbyes had been quick, filled with friendly embraces and promises of seeing each other again soon. For Severus she had lingered, momentarily unwilling to leave the safety and comfort that was his arms. “I love you,” he told her into the shell of her ear, “Be safe.” “And you as well,” she smiled, “I won’t know what to do without you.” The corners of his mouth twitched in the sign that he was fighting a smile, “I’m sure you’ll manage… Know that nothing will keep me away.” She placed her palm upon his cheek in a lingering caress, and then pressed her lips to his once more before turning and Aparating into the sunset. Despite her disappointment at having to return to the tiny cottage that she shared with James Potter, Lily tried her hardest to put on her best face and act as pleasant as she possibly could. He had greeted her with a smile and a warm meal ready and waiting upon the table. The smell of roasted meat and gravy was mouthwatering, and the sight of a mixed green salad and two goblets of pumpkin juice had her realizing just how hungry she actually was. They sat across from each other at the table, eating in silence for some time before James decided to speak. “How was your time with Frank and Alice?” “Wonderful,” she smiled, swallowing a bite of food and dabbing at her pink lips with a napkin, “It was lovely getting to see them and share in the birth of their son. He’s precious! Such a cute little baby.” “And everything went well with the delivery?” Lily nodded, “You know Alice… Screamed and cursed her whole way through it, but held tightly to Frank and mine’s hands all the while pushing. She did splendidly.” “I’m sure Frank will have much to tell at the next Order meeting.” “I hope so!” she laughed, “It’s amazing how quickly they develop and change even after only just entering the world. Little Neville’s already showing little magical signs… Nothing crazy, though adorable in their own ways.” They had stared at each other for a long moment after Lily had concluded her words, James noticing the sparkle in her almond-shaped green eyes from the pride and fascination she had with the magical babe. Part of him felt a pang of sadness, at knowing they could have easily been Frank and Alice… The baby theirs. If only things had been different… If only they hadn’t broken and stopped everything between them. Lily would have made a wonderful mother; he was certain of it, and fatherhood would have maybe forced him to be more of a man. There was still a slight chance it might happen for them… He had to believe in it. Seeing the happiness in her every expression had an infectious way of making him realize just how much he had taken for granted when it had come to their relationship before. Had she ever expressed wanting to have a child with him during their marriage? If so, he had never truly listened. Maybe Sirius and Dumbledore were right in their observations of the man that he had become. Maybe he was guilty of just never listening to her- To anyone but his own selfish self. And, more painfully, perhaps Lily was right. Even in their short reunion of living under the same roof, he had felt as though he was somehow cohabiting with a woman that was very different from the one he had married straight out of Hogwarts. Perhaps he never really did take the time to get to know her as she had suggested when she left him. “Thank you for the lovely meal, James.” He coughed instinctively, coming out of his inner thoughts, “Of course, Lily. It’s good to have you back.” She cleared the table and washed the dishes; a respectable trade-off considering his work on the meal. After drying her hands, she gave him a friendly smile, heading off in the direction of the bedroom they had once shared, “Goodnight, James.” “Goodnight, Lily.” It felt strange to be back in that bedroom, and even more odd that she would be sharing it alone. After so much time in the company of Severus, under August and Robert’s roof, to suddenly be alone in a double bed seemed nothing short of peculiar. The sheets were cold, much like the rest of it, and she shivered as she made herself comfortable. Though James had been just as kind as when she had left him weeks ago, it just wasn’t the same. She appreciated his efforts, though she already couldn’t wait until she was able to leave again. Closing her eyes, she was greeted by the familiar illusion of Severus. She remembered the surprise she had felt at hearing him quietly sing to the tiny babe- An action she had never expected, though heartwarming in its intimacy. She cringed at the familiar thought of awkwardly telling him about Alice’s question about them someday having a child of their own. To her surprise, he had not seemed completely opposed to the idea. Despite her own flustered responses, he had not openly expressed an opposition to such a future. She smiled remembering how it had been just the opposite when he had suggested they sneak off to bed. Lily rolled onto her side in an attempt to make herself more comfortable and fall into the sleep she so desired. But try as she might, sleep continued to evade her. She should be exhausted from the emotional separation that she felt from being removed from the people she most cared about and being thrust back into this false life she was forced into living at the side of her ex-husband. It had been nothing short of liberating to feel like she could truly be herself again under the Longbottom’s roof. Now she was forced into once again concealing the details of her life that would prove dangerous if revealed to the wrong sort of individual. But was James so untrustworthy? Lily knew the answer at once. She could not tell James- Especially not about her love and future that she fought so hard to share with Severus. No matter what Dumbledore had told her, no matter what he had tried to tell James, she knew that he would not receive hearing her true break with him and passions for another. It would be cruel, and something she just couldn’t bring herself to do… No matter how much she wished their growing friendship could handle it. She sighed, closing her eyes again in an attempt to reach sleep, though finding herself greeted with images from her vivid imagination instead. Silken dark hair, pale skin, and deep, dark eyes. His hot breath upon her skin and mingling with her own in a kiss- Mint with just a hint of lemon. Soft lips with the slight scratching-tickle from his unshaven cheeks; the hint of a shadow from not yet shaving for the day. She clenched her jaw, rolling onto her other side in an attempt for the coolness of the sheets to douse her building desire. One hand clutched at the edge of the blankets, her other instinctively resting upon her upper chest. Fingers slightly calloused, caressing through her hair and down her neck. His lips finding her pressure point and slightly sucking before trailing to her collarbone and nibbling just slightly. Goosebumps erupting across her skin, the building warmth moving slowly lower and lower. It lingered at her stomach for a moment, butterflies fluttering, before slipping lower still, deep into her core. She rolled onto her back, hands moving through her auburn hair in frustration, before slipping once more beneath the covers. The slender fingers of her left hand trailed down the center of her chest, tracing the curve of each breast and then moving to her left nipple where the cautiously circled the sensitive flesh. He would kiss her breasts, his tongue teasing at her nipples before pressing a kiss to her abdomen, his fingers sliding against her moistening, collecting the building wetness between her legs. His thumb would find her apex- Lightly pressing her clitoris before slipping his longest finger inside of her. Lily’s own hands slid down her sides, following the curve of her smooth skin. She slipped her right hand through the soft curls of her mound and to the slickness she knew to be present lower. Quietly gasping as her fingers moved in much the same manner as Severus might, she rolled onto her stomach, kicking the blankets off of her in the process, slipping two fingers inside of her core and thrusting her hips with desire. He had nipped at her jawline, his lips finding hers, tongue slipping into her mouth. She had clung to him, his hand slipping from its place between her thighs. Reaching between them she had found his hard, aching cock, stroking it with her fingertips. He would groan, his breath alighting goosebumps anew across her skin, her nipples hardening so much that they hurt, her own passions undoing her as she attempted to undo him. She rocked her hips against the sweet pressure that her hand offered, thumb swirling across the bundle of nerves atop her opening. He had hooked her legs around the bend of his arms in much the way she always enjoyed, revealing her nakedness to himself in a way that still managed to make her blush, and to bring a light sheen of sweat to his brow. She was beautiful, every bit of her, and he was nothing but handsome to her. Lily could feel herself nearing her peak and pulled a pillow down to stifle the cries that were bound to tear from her lips upon reaching her climax. It was only after the throws of her spent arousal had torn through her that she had been able to finally find slumber. =============================================================================== As August faded to September, Lily had found herself just as much frustrated by the less than desirable living situation she was forced to remain in. She wished that Dumbledore would relent and just allow for her and Severus to stay with Frank and Alice. The offer had all but been stated during her time spent with them, both before and after the birth of Neville. Augusta and Robert had said as much to her as well… The house was certainly large enough that she should would not be considered a burden in any way. But she had to remain patient; as much as she hated it. To make matters all the more complicated, Lily had found herself dealing with the added burden of overwhelming nausea more and more frequently- Especially in the early hours of the morning, after rising. Not even a piping hot cup of tea had the desired effect in soothing her queasiness. It was then, that a chill of realization rocked her so hard that she was forced to sit down. No… It couldn’t be. And yet, it was just enough that she knew it would eat at her unless proven certain. To her added luck, James had not been home that afternoon, having left to go meet his old band of friends for some kind of outing. Lily had slipped into her Muggle clothes and ventured into town, only to quickly return to the cottage and hold her breath as she waited on pins-and-needles for the result. She would have just enough time before having to leave for her appointment in London. *** When James Potter returned to the cottage in Godric’s Hollow from his afternoon with the Marauders, he found it empty. Lily had told him that she would be spending the weekend with Frank and Alice again, and that suited him just fine. He took off his jacket and hung it across the back of one of the dining chairs before looking around the house in a quiet moment of observation. Though he couldn’t say for certain, he had the impression that his and Lily’s relationship had been moving in the right direction. Glancing at the table he noticed her note. Sorry I missed you, James. I hope you had a nice time in London. I’ll see you Sunday evening. -Lily P.S. I didn't have time to get started on my chores... Again, I'm sorry! She had actually been sorry that she hadn’t been able to tell him ‘goodbye.’ No, that wish was a silly one. He shook his head, if anything she was just being polite. But still, she had actually left him a note, and that was the first time he could recall her doing such since nearly as long as he could remember. Before settling down, he figured he’d tidy up the restrooms, it seemed ridiculous to wait for her to come back and do it when it was such a simple task. With a smile, he thought that perhaps she might even realize the added effort he had made. As he cleaned the master bathroom he looked around at the feminine touches that were uniquely Lily. A part of his heart ached for her, wishing that she would see just how much he had changed and how much he still cared for her. As he picked up the little cleaning bucket to leave the space, his eyes spotted something unfamiliar in the little trashcan. Ignoring propriety, he took the item from its place in the garbage and stared. For how long he remained in that position staring at the pregnancy test he had no idea. But when he retrieved the box from the trash he was certain he already knew the answer to his burning question. A ‘+’ was prominent in the little box, and after consulting the packaging he found that it was indeed as he had thought. Pregnant. But who-? And before he had an opportunity to complete his own question, he threw the items back into the trash with a burning force. It couldn’t be his. There was no possibility, and tricking himself into believing it was nothing but a farce. Dumbledore had lied to him. Who knew how many others had already lied to him when echoing his deepest wishes. Sirius? Peter? Remus? They were all his friends, his most trusted companions… But did they know? He had been wasting so much energy and hope for something that would never be. He had been made a fool. Was Lily laughing at him even now? Laughing with Frank and Alice and- A cool numbness crept over him at the thought which had yet to enter his mind until that very moment. Who was the father? Stepping into her bedroom- Their old bedroom, he caught a glimpse of a piece of parchment sticking out from one of the drawers on the chest. I long to see you again. There had been no signature, and nothing else written. But James Potter was no fool, and where there was one, he was certain there would be more. He didn’t need to seek them out, he didn’t need to concern himself with whatever contents the rest might contain. And besides that, there was no way he could ever prove his suspicions of who the author actually was in identity. But the handwriting- He knew that handwriting. Almost feminine in form; a far neater script than he and his mates had ever been able to form. They had occasionally managed to slip a sheet of his notes away when attempting to copy an assignment, or cheat their way through an important exam in their days at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. He clenched a fist in immediate anger, the rage boiling just under the surface from the memories that suddenly flooded him. Severus Snape. Chapter End Notes The song that Severus sings to Neville is an old Welsh lullaby called Suo Gân. He sings the last verse of it in traditional Welsh. (Idea taken in part from the sung counter-curse to Sectumsempra). Translated into English it would be something like: Sleep my darling, on my bosom, Harm will never come to you; Mother’s arms enfold you safely, Mother’s heart is ever true. As you sleep there’s naught to scare you, Naught to wake you from your rest; Close those eyelids, little angel, Sleep upon your mother’s breast. Sleep, my darling, night is falling Rest in slumber sound and deep; I would know why you are smiling, Smiling sweetly as you sleep! Do you see the angels smiling As they see your rosy rest, So that you must smile an answer As you slumber on my breast? Don’t be frightened, it’s a leaflet Tapping, tapping on the door; Don’t be frightened, ‘twas a wavelet Sighing, sighing on the shore. Slumber, slumber, naught can hurt you, Nothing bring you harm or fright; Slumber, darling, smiling sweetly At those angels robed in white. If you'd like to listen to it, you can do so here: Suo_Gân_-_Charlotte_Church FYI- The next chapter will be posted on Halloween. It coincides with the day, and it has been planned for a very long time. :) ***** All Hallows' Eve ***** Chapter Summary Lily has Frank and Alice over to the cottage in Godric's Hollow. Chapter Notes This is a very long chapter- Possibly the longest in the fic, we will see... There are quite a few scene changes and perspective changes throughout this chapter- FYI. Also, please proceed with caution if you have any triggers. Graphic descriptions of violence in this chapter- Please know your own limitations. I don't want anyone to feel uncomfortable. Here we go... See the end of the chapter for more notes “But who can remember pain, once it’s over? All that remains of it is a shadow, not in the mind even, in the flesh. Pain marks you, but too deep to see. Out of sight, out of mind.” -Margaret Atwood [shattered] October_of_1980 In the time since Lily had learned of her unexpected pregnancy, she found herself at a crossroads of sorts, and inexplicably feeling as though she were stuck. No matter the situation, she was nervous and a little frightened… Feelings she knew to be natural, especially given the stress of her living situation and arrangement. On one hand she was overjoyed, delighted by the thought of becoming a mother, and how her life would transform and change. The addition of a child to her life was a prospect that brought so much promise despite the fearsome circumstances surrounding the Dark Lord. For so long she had never considered the possibility, not yet yearning for the completeness that a little boy or girl might bring to her life. Now with Severus, she knew that a family and future were something she truly desired- Something she longed for completely. He would make a most devoted father no matter the sex of their child, undoubtedly raising it with love and tenderness- Things that had been so foreign to his own childhood and upbringing in Spinner’s End. Her heart beat faster as she pictured their future. The sound of little feet running up and down the hallway and across the quaint house that they shared. Giggles and laughter, high-pitched and gleeful, echoing throughout the space and the small garden outside. She would follow into the yard, housedress whipping lightly in the summertime breeze, a smile spreading across her lips at the sight before her. Severus would sweep the little child up into his arms, tossing him or her into the air, the look upon his face one of absolute happiness and contentment. Dazzling green eyes would glitter back at her from the little one’s face, their jet-black hair mirroring that of their father’s. It would be a life full of hope after the chaos brought by the Dark Lord and his supremacist army. Their child a symbol of the future and happiness that could be reached even from a union as surprising as theirs- Gryffindor and Slytherin, once Death Eater and known member of the Order of the Phoenix… Half- Blood and Muggle-born. None of it mattered. All of it words and means of sorting individuals into more than just a fraternity or sorority. To make a future for all of them they would need to see past such mundane differences that would always be there in life- They must learn to love and care for one another and the livelihood of all members of their magical world. There was so much more at stake- All of it far more important than the decision’s wrought by a patched old hat. The only fears that Lily felt from learning of her condition were of the repercussions it might sow. She had yet to tell anyone of the knowledge she possessed- Not even Frank and Alice… And certainly not Severus. She was not sure how best to proceed, or how Dumbledore would react when learning of the development. Part of her struggled with the fact that she was certain he would be disappointed in her. Shocked by the foolishness of her and Severus at having not taken proper precautions at preventing such an occurrence given the severity of their world’s current possible future. She would have to tell all of them sooner than later. The only other negative that she could bring herself to recognize was the reaction of her ex-husband, James Potter. Though he had been nothing short of welcoming and generous when it had come to their reunion and awkward living situation, Lily could not shake the feeling that he would not receive the news well. Hell, she knew better than to divulge the actual paternity of the child… No matter what Dumbledore had assumed. It had been a tempting prospect nonetheless, certainly with how changed he had seemed since she had come home. But Lily had resolved to call a meeting between herself and Severus and Dumbledore to speak the news. Aparating from Godric’s Hollow had been a decision that Lily immediately regretted. Her already overwhelming nausea, mixed with her own nervousness had not been a winning combination when considering the feelings that the common form of magical transport involved. Just recalling the journey had been enough to send her doubling over in the nearby hedges lining the exterior of the Hog’s Head Inn in Hogsmeade. She coughed as the sick escaped from her trembling form. A gentle hand pressed to her back, hand pulling back her long auburn tresses. When she looked up she was mortified to see two striking blue eyes staring back from behind half-moon spectacles. Albus Dumbledore silently offered her a handkerchief to wipe her mouth, which she took with a courteous nod of thanks. “Are you alright?” She nodded, her red curls sticking to the thin film of cold sweat upon her brow. Lily felt unsteady on her feet and caught his arm gently for support, the queasiness slowly beginning to fade. “I’m sorry…” “Don’t be,” he told her kindly, “We just won’t tell Aberforth that you’ve vomited over his landscaping.” Lily smiled, but her eyes were full of embarrassment and lingering apology for her unexpected episode. She was supposed to be keeping a low profile and she had just been publicly sick beside a well-known establishment in the Scottish Highlands. The aged Headmaster placed a friendly arm around her shoulders, wordlessly leading her up the front steps and into the building. The barroom was deserted, even Aberforth gone from sight, the elder Dumbledore leading the way to the back apartment that they had sat in for a time on their last visit. Severus was absent from the space as they seated themselves in front of the fire. “How are you feeling?” Lily blushed, “I hadn’t expected Apparition to have had such an effect upon me… I haven’t been feeling altogether well lately, and it was a stupid mistake. I’m so sorry- This wasn’t how I had envisioned starting this meeting.” Albus Dumbledore silently studied his former pupil for a moment, eventually running the fingers of one hand absentmindedly through the coarse hair of his snow-white beard, blue eyes unwavering in their stare. “Sir?” “How long have you known?” he asked gently. “Known what?” Severus questioned in his usual low drawl, slipping into the room, his black robes billowing about him as he closed the door behind him. Lily’s eyes locked upon his dark ones, terror and uneasiness suddenly building uncomfortably in the pit of her stomach now that she was face-to-face with both parties, “I- Umm…” “Lily was rather unsteady after her journey to Hogsmeade,” Dumbledore interjected, “The contents of her stomach are currently decorating my brother’s hedge outside.” Severus frowned, eyebrows knitting together in concern as he approached Lily in the chair where she sat shifting awkwardly. She swallowed the hard lump that had grown in the back of her throat, diverting her eyes to her feet in continued discomfort. “Are you ill?” he questioned softly, pressing the back of his hand to her forehead. Taking his hand in hers, she met his eyes again, green eyes filled with honest emotion, “Not entirely… I’m pregnant.” The words fell heavily upon the air of the room, Dumbledore stroking his beard in a habitual pondering, and Severus glued in place at the shock of her confession. “How long, Lily?” Dumbledore asked after the silence had continued for some time, “Does anyone else know?” She swallowed hard again, “I found out a month ago… And no. Not even Frank and Alice.” “I’m going to be a father?” Severus finally managed, his words sounding strange as they left his lips. Lily smiled at him, her eyes alight with happiness, “Yes.” He threaded his fingers gently through her hair, eyes softening at her words, and then searching over her frame in quiet reverence for her and the safety of the life that she carried within. “We must figure out our next move,” Dumbledore stated, “This complicates things, though I can hardly admit that I am completely surprised by the news… It is a welcome development, though undeniably changes things that have been put in place.” “In what way?” Severus frowned. “Lily’s safety,” the aged man replied simply, “She has been well concealed at the cottage in Godric’s Hollow, though James Potter will undoubtedly not hold this news to quite the same level of excitement as the two of you when it becomes apparent.” Lily licked her lips, nodding, “What shall I do?” He interlaced his fingers, “For the moment I am uncertain. James has no knowledge of your condition as far as you know?” “Not that he has made evident,” she shrugged, “He acts no different than he has since I returned to the house.” Dumbledore nodded, “Good. Let us keep it that way for now. Do you know who he selected for the Secret Keeper at your home?” “Peter Pettigrew.” Severus could hardly disguise the surprised expression that came over his face, “I would have guessed Black or Lupin- “ “A matter of little consequence,” Dumbledore interrupted, “Very well. Lily, I should like for you to stay put until you are able to speak with Frank and Alice about the possibility of joining them at the home of Augusta and Robert Longbottom. I am certain that they will be overjoyed by a reunion with you, though I cannot determine for how long you will remain in their company.” He paused for a long moment, “I do not feel it will be in the best interest of the three of you to be reunited for long, what with all of you being threatened by the Death Eaters in the past. But for a time, that is until we can figure out another solution, I see no other option.” “I would ask that you move quickly,” Severus told her, pressing a kiss to her hand, “If there is any question as to your safety and that of our child within your womb.” “Severus is right,” the aged man added, “You must contact Frank and Alice at once.” Lily nodded, understanding the necessity of the situation. She was pleased that they had not been angry in their learning of her changed condition, though their concern worried her. “I will be leaving for the Dark Lord and a meeting that is imperative that I attend,” Severus told her quietly, “It shouldn’t be more than a few days, and by the time I return we should find ourselves reunited.” He smiled, the expression small and crinkling the corners of his eyes as he spoke, “I love you. I can’t wait to be by your side and watch as you change and grow… You’ve made me a very happy man.” She caressed his cheek with affection, tears welling within her eyes, though unwilling to fall. =============================================================================== When would she begin to show? Would it be a boy or a girl? Were there any special tricks that she should know about to make her pregnancy any easier? Lily was full of questions when it came to this new part of her life, and grateful that Alice would soon be her confidante when it came to all things pregnancy related. Just the thought of little Neville- The probability that their children would grow up together and hopefully become the best of friends, had Lily smiling from ear-to-ear. A baby clad in only a white diaper crawling across the floor… Hers and Severus’ reflections in their firstborn child’s eyes. The baby playing and eventually taking its first uneven steps; pudgy hand holding tightly to one of their own as its footing slowly became more and more steady. James was gathering his things together. He had important Order business to see to, thus allowing Lily the late afternoon visit with Frank and Alice. “When do you think you’ll be home?” “Not sure,” he admitted, “Probably late.” She nodded, “Just be safe, ok?” He stared at her for a long moment, his brown eyes reflecting something remarkably akin to sadness from behind his glasses, “Can I ask you something, Lily?” “Of course! Anything.” He took a deep breath, voice sounding vulnerable and far away, despite their proximity to one another, “Did you truly mean what you said before? That you never really loved me?” “James- “ “Please,” he interrupted her, taking a step towards her, his voice scarcely more than a whisper, “Lily… I need to know.” She diverted her eyes from him, though remained steadfastly silent. “I know that it won’t change anything,” he continued, “And I’m not trying to bring up old wounds in an attempt to guilt you, or anything else. I just want- No… I need to know if you ever loved me.” She bit her lip, slowly bringing her green eyes up to his, “I don’t know.” He looked crestfallen at her admission; neither a ‘yes’ or a ‘no.’ She knew that it wasn’t the answer that he sought from her, nor was it fair. However, it was the truth. “I loved you, Lily Evans,” he told her with a sigh, “I loved you then, and I love you still.” “I’m sorry, James.” “Me too,” he told her, kissing her on the cheek before turning to leave, “Goodbye, Lily.” =============================================================================== “It has been quite some time since the Dark Lord summoned you,” Lucius Malfoy smirked, “Afraid you might be losing your favor with him?” “Hardly,” Severus scoffed, “I have no reason to believe that things have changed pertaining to our council when it comes to essential matters involving our cause… He has never given me a reason to question my place or importance at his side.” The silvery-blonde man’s eyes glittered, “The Dark Lord has been meeting with Bellatrix quite often as of late. Perhaps my wife’s sister may have an edge over the both of us when it comes to our Master’s confidence.” Doubtful. “She left in quite a hurry just before you arrived,” he continued, leaning back in his desk chair, “It seems she has finally managed a lead in her recent assignment.” “The culling?” Severus questioned in mock curiosity, “Who this time?” =============================================================================== Lily was full of excited anticipation when she heard the knock upon the door. It had been too long since she had last seen her dear friends, Frank and Alice. She was close to bursting with giddiness at the prospect of sharing her big news, as well as a joy at being able to host the two of them for a change. She had done a quick cleaning of the house shortly after James’ departure, ensuring that everything was in its designated place, and that tea was ready to be served. A fire burned cheerfully in the fireplace, its radiant heat warming the living area thoroughly. “Lily!” Alice exclaimed, hugging her best friend at once when the door had opened. “What a lovely little village,” Frank added with a smile. “Godric’s Hollow is very quiet,” she agreed, ushering them inside, “I’ve made tea for us.” “Thank you,” they told her, hanging their traveling cloaks on the rack by the door and seating themselves down upon the sofa. “James is off to London,” she explained, readying the tea, “So we should go undisturbed for the entirety of your visit. Where’s Neville?” “Left him with Augusta,” Alice smiled, “She insisted that he’s still too little to be Aparating…” “Which I agree with,” Frank stated firmly, “Though he will certainly miss seeing you, Lily.” “I would’ve loved to have seen him as well.” “Enough of this chatter!” Alice laughed, “Why’d you invite us over?” Frank frowned at his wife whilst Lily served them their tea and took her seat in a chair situated closest to the fire, “Alice…” “Perhaps I just wanted the pleasure of your company?” Lily stated with a mocked and stuffy air to her voice that was clearly on purpose, “Perhaps I wanted to show off to the two of you the home that I once shared with my ex-husband? Goodness, Alice…! Allow me these few simple pleasures in life.” Alice snorted and Frank rolled his eyes as he took a sip of his tea. “I have rather big news,” Lily said with utmost seriousness. “Well…?” She smiled, “I’m pregnant.” “I KNEW IT!!!” Alice shrieked, jumping to her feet. Frank set down his teacup upon the coffee table, “Congratulations, Lily! What wonderful news!” “Does Severus know?!” “Yes he does,” Lily beamed, “We haven’t been able to speak about it too much though… I called him and Dumbledore to a meeting a few weeks ago.” “What does Dumbledore think?” Frank questioned. Sighing, “He seems supportive, but he’s worried… I think it’s a combination of the fact that Severus is doing all this spying for the Order, and then the fact that Bellatrix threatened the two of you and I.” Frank and Alice exchanged a look at each other and then looked back to their friend and nodded in unison and mutual understanding. “He wanted me to tell you both of my condition,” Lily continued, “And suggested that I ask whether you would be willing for me to rejoin your household until a better arrangement can be provided. He assured that it would only be a temporary living situation- Like I said, I think he’s still concerned about us being under the same rook for too long… And I can’t blame him! I mean, I wouldn’t want to endanger either of you, or Neville.” “Lily, you’re family to us,” Frank told her, “You’re welcome for as long as you need.” Alice nodded, echoing her husband’s sentiment, “Augusta and Robert love you, and they have grown quite fond of Severus as well. There’s no doubt that you will have a home for as long as you need it.” “Thank you both so much,” Lily told them, tears threatening to fall from her eyes, “It means everything to me.” “Does James know?” Frank questioned. “No,” she told him at once, “Things have been going so well, but I can’t bring myself to tell him. Even today he asked me if I had meant what I said when I left him… And he told me that he still loves me even after all this time. What was I supposed to do? I can’t do that to even him! He’s not a monster… He’s made his mistakes in the past, but I couldn’t wound him so deeply with this- Not after we finally seem to be on the right track to becoming friends.” “Probably for the best,” Frank said quietly. “I’m guessing that’s part of the reason that Dumbledore advised you leave sooner than later?” Alice asked. Lily nodded. “Whatever the reason,” Alice smiled, “I can’t wait for us to pick up right where we left off! And you’ll do well to be around Neville so much as well… He’ll certainly help prepare you for when you and Severus have your own!” With an ear-splitting ‘bang,’ the front door blew off of its hinges with enough force that it shot across the room. In a matter of seconds all three were on their feet, wands drawn, Frank moving slightly in front of the two women. A lone figure stepped calmly and gingerly through the gaping hole of a doorway, her black robes billowing around her, frizzy dark curls in crazed disarray. Her wild eyes searched the interior of the space before coming to rest upon Frank, Alice, and Lily. Her lips moved into a hybrid smirk-sneer, a blood-chilling laugh cackling through the destruction and debris that surrounded them. “Looks like he was right!” she nearly shrieked in amusement, “All three of them here at once! The Longbottom’s and their filthy Mudblood companion!” Her voice had been sing-sing, blood-chilling, and the last one that any of them had expected to hear. Frank bared his teeth in obvious dislike, vein pounding at his temple as his knuckles turned white from the tight grip he held upon his wand. Alice and Lily exchanged a brief look at each other, adrenaline pumping like blood through their veins. As the dust slowly began to settle around them, the shadowy outlines of three men emerged from behind the insane witch that stood before them. Two of the men were dark-haired and of remarkably similar characteristics. It was obvious from one look that they were only a year or two apart and clearly brothers. The other was much younger than his companions, slight-of-build, with dirty blonde hair- Barty Crouch Jr. Lily knew him at once, having recognized him as the youngest in the band of Slytherin’s that were destined to join the Death Eater’s after leaving Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Having come from an uninterrupted line of Pure- Blood’s, it had seemed only natural that the youth; only two years younger than she and Severus, would join up with the Dark Lord. His features were angular, his eyes glinting with a dark malice, lips twisted with amusement. There was nothing comforting in his stare, something held in common by his three cohorts. Four on three… Their odds weren’t so bad if it came to it… “Now, now…” Bellatrix laughed, eyes quickly darkening and shifting in their intensity, “We would hate to have to spill blood with such purity as that which runs through your veins, Longbottom’s...” She grinned, her lips curling up with malice, “Though the Mudblood will certainly grant us a level of enjoyment not bestowed every day.” “Burn in Hell, Lestrange!” Frank spat. The two men accompanying Bellatrix and Barty Crouch Jr. exchanged looks with each other, sneering in rage at the Auror before them. “A pity that your little boy could not be present with us today,” Bellatrix continued, taking a step forwards, “It would have been nice to see the little one who has been placed upon our list… Such potential a lad born to two Pure- blood’s might prove to possess. A shame that we will have to come for little Neville later on after your unfortunate stumble with us today.” Alice took a visible swallow, eyes narrowing, though the tips of her fingers beginning to just barely tremble. Lily could feel her own breath coming in shortened, nervous, breaths. It was only a matter of time before someone was forced to act- There was no doubt that someone would get hurt when it came to their encounter, it just remained to be seen who. Her stomach rolled at the thought of the imminent confrontation, and the fears she had surrounding her unborn babe. Sensing the stress of his two companions, Frank opened his mouth to begin a counter to the woman before him, the known Death Eater and her three accomplices. What his intention, or the full extent of his negotiation had involved would never be known. “Enough of this-!” the elder of the two men shouted, “Crucio!” The shriek that came from Alice was one far worse than anything that Lily had ever heard before. It was animalistic, mixed with a terror and frightening agony the likes of which made her shudder and find herself frozen in place. Alice writhed from the force behind the curse cast upon her, her body twisting and contorting in ways that were unnatural and fit for a horror movie. Her head thrashed from side-to-side, mouth agape, eyes wide and almost unseeing in their suffering. She kicked her legs involuntarily, fingers clawing at the floorboards of the living room in an attempt to take hold of anything- Something in an attempt to help her shy away from the white-hot pain that was blistering through every vein in her body. A roar of rage caught in Frank’s throat that was startling in its force as he rushed Bellatrix Lestrange with his wand thrust in rage. She dodged his curse, the red light ricocheting off of the wall opposite her and narrowly missing the younger of the two similarly appearing men behind her. Amidst Alice’s echoing screams a new sound became evident- Laughter. They were actually finding a level of amusement in their actions, in their torture of innocent people who had been guilty of nothing except the offense of not believing in the same ideals and principles as those the Dark Lord had manipulated them into thinking the only truth. “Stop it!” Lily managed, her voice sounding strange in it's strangled and desperate cries, “STOP IT!!!” Alice’s fingernails had broken away from the nailbeds of her once slender digits, crimson blood staining down her hands and leaving trails upon the floor, her voice strangled and continuing in its agonized cries. “The Mudblood doesn’t like that she hasn’t gotten a turn yet!” Bellatrix laughed, eyes wild. “Crucio!” Frank shouted, narrowly hitting Rodolphus Lestrange in his brief moment of distraction. Bellatrix spun around to find her husband shaking upon the floor, Frank’s use of the same curse having struck the man fully in the chest and toppled him over where he once stood. “Avada Kevadra!” the youngest Death Eater shouted, the bright green light catching Frank off guard and sending him flying against the edge of the fireplace and then crumpling to the ground in a deafening thud. “Why are you doing this?!” Lily sobbed, kneeling at her best friend’s side and attempting all that she could to soothe the still cursed woman’s plight, “STOP IT!!!” Rodolphus sat up and caught his breath, nodding to his wife in a silent indication that he would be fine- Frank’s curse having died with his own last breath. Lily glanced to where his lifeless form remained, eyes half-lidded and unseeing, body contorted into a most uncomfortable position. He was truly dead. They had killed him and not blinked and eye, and still Alice twisted and struggled in the throes of the torture curse, her breath coming hard, voice growing more and more hoarse. Bellatrix crossed the room to where the two women remained, hand gripping the front of Lily’s robes and bringing her face within an inch of her own. Lily could see the red veins within the whites of her eyes, the crazed extent of the witch’s madness palatable in their closeness of proximity. “You've lost, Mudblood.” Lily gulped, attempting to back away from the woman, though finding herself pulled tighter and closer as a response, “When we’re done here none of you will remain. Your fate was sealed long before Mister Longbottom decided to try his luck at cursing my husband- Look at what that got him. Your friend’s as good as gone…” She waved her wand and brought the curse to a momentary lapse, Alice coughing and breathing hard at the sudden relief that she felt from the pain having been momentarily removed, “There is no loyalty in your Order, how do you think we found you?” “Frank?” Alice questioned softly, dragging herself towards the crumpled form that was her husband, her voice becoming more and more desperate, “Frank- ? FRANK?!” “Fucking idiots,” Rastaban laughed, pointing in the direction of Alice, “Frank?” he mocked, mimicking the tortured woman's cries of concern, “Missus, Frank’s dead.” “No!” Alice breathed, bloodied hands clutching at the front of his robes, broken fingers searching for any sign of life- Any means to prove the Death Eater’s cruel comments incorrect, “No, Frank! No, no, no…! FRANK!!! WAKE UP!!! Frank… Please…” Her voice was filled with desperation and anguish, her arms seeking to cradle his lifeless form, hands smoothing over his paled skin, lips finding his, her eyes reflecting nothing but fear. Tears streamed from Lily’s eyes as she was useless to assist her friend, to comfort Alice as she was forced to cope with the untimely and violent death of the man that she loved, the father of her child, and the best friend she had long pledged to share her life with until the end of their days. Dreams of growing old together and raising their son in a home filled with love and joy- Possibly other children in time; all of it crashing to an unfathomable and untimely- Crushing conclusion before her eyes. The wail that came from her was one of purest pain and sorrow… Unmatched and inconsolable in its degree. “Oh shut up!” Barty Crouch Jr. spat, flicking his wand and commencing her torture anew, the force of his resumed curse causing her to hit her head upon the stone of the fireplace, blood streaming from her blood in a heavy flow that stained down her face and neck, pooling at the front of her robes. Alice began shrieking anew with the resumed torture coursing through her veins, her broken hands and fingertips clawing at her robes and leaving fresh red scratches in their wake from the jagged nails that remained on a few of her bloodied fingertips. Her eyes bulged, almost pleading in their incomprehensible stare, hands moving up to her mousy brown hair and tugging at it violently, ripping out handfuls from her scalp. Lily squeezed her eyes shut, hoping with desperation that this was all just some horrible nightmare that she would soon wake up from- Knowing that the truth was a reality all too frightening to bear. “Open your eyes, Mudblood…” Bellatrix told her, her voice low and right in Lily’s ear, “You should see what happens when those so undeserving of the gift of magic befriend the likes of our kind that have spent generations keeping purity to our race. Look what you’ve done to Missus Longbottom! Look at what your friendship brought to her Mister!” The laughter of the three men intermingled with Alice’s screams. Bellatrix’s fingers almost caressingly slipped through Lily’s auburn curls, lingering momentarily on the smoothness of her cheek before her voice came in a low whisper again, “You’ve put your loyalty in the wrong people… Pettigrew was right to tell us of your location and the meeting you were having with the Longbottom’s. A shame you didn’t advise your ex-husband better when it came to Secret Keepers! Clearly he has a bad judge of character.” She paused, eyes flashing with a bright new amusement at a particularly blood-curdling scream that forced its way from Alice’s lips, “Then again, perhaps it was his intention for you to learn something from your actions…?” Her breath was very hot, almost suffocating as it made contact with Lily’s skin, though her final words brought about a devastating terror, “James Potter did request that we keep you alive while ridding you of the bastard within your belly.” They knew everything. Before Lily had a chance to speak, the pain of the Cruciatus Curse had hit her with full force from the front, Bellatrix Lestrange’s wand pressed to the fabric of her robes, the tip of her wand digging into her abdomen with a hard force. The last thing Lily was able to comprehend before the throes of pain enveloped her- The feeling of a hundred knives piercing every inch of her skin, was the shrill sing-song laughter of the evil witch before her and the confession she had made before bestowing the torturous curse upon her. Her own voice sounded strangled, a volume which she had scarcely ever heard before, intermingling with that of Alice’s. And then everything faded away to nothingness. There was only agony and pain. =============================================================================== “The culling?” Severus questioned in mock curiosity, “Who this time?” “Rumor has it that there’s a rat the Dark Lord’s been harboring from the ranks of the Order,” Lucius explained, “Supposedly he divulged the location of three known members; selling them off like lambs for the slaughter. Something about the Longbottom’s and that deplorable Mudblood they keep in their company.” Severus stiffened, blood chilling within his veins. “I think her name’s Lily? Lily Potter?” Her name had barely left Lucius’ lips when Severus had moved across the room, grabbing his former Prefect by the throat and slamming him hard into the bookcase behind the desk he had been seated at. The silvery-blonde wizard’s wand went flying across the room, clattering upon the marble floor far from reach. His eyes widened, shocked by the outburst of his fellow lieutenant, coughing against the pressure upon his throat, eyes locking with the dark eyes of the younger man and the enraged expression that greeted him. “Unhand me!” Severus tightened his grip, a strangled gurgle and cough coming hard from Lucius as he struggled against the grip he was being held in, “Who was the rat?” “Fuck you.” Severus punched him in the side of the head with his free hand, wand still clenched in his palm. Blood trickled from the corner of the elder Slytherin’s mouth, lips quivering with malice. “Do not press my patience, Lucius…” Severus told his once friend through gritted teeth, “I will not hesitate to undo you; to curse you here where you stand, and rid your wife and son of the deplorable creature that you are. Who. Was. The. Rat?” Lucius turned his head and spat blood onto the floor, “Pettigrew. Peter Pettigrew.” It was precisely as he had feared. “Where did Bellatrix go?” he asked, attempting to hide all clues as to his motives from the man before him, though knowing fully that there would be no returning to his position of lieutenant after all of this was done, or to the Death Eaters in general. His duty to Dumbledore and the Order would expire the moment he had fled from the Malfoy Mansion and the presence of this once friend he currently held by the throat. “Do not make me ask you again, Lucius.” “Godric’s Hollow,” he choked, defeat showing in his eyes. “Who went with her?” “Rodolphus and Rabastan Lestrange,” he confessed, “And Bartemius Crouch Jr.” “It would do you good to reconsider your loyalties, old friend,” Severus told him, “Consider this my one act of kindness for you- For the respect our years together have ensured.” Lucius opened his mouth, anger clearly his motivation, though Severus silenced him with a pointed, “Obliviate.” A blankness immediately entered the cool grey eyes of the wizard before him, and Severus stepped to one side, hand slipping from the front of the man’s throat to the back of his neck. In one swift motion he slammed Lucius Malfoy’s head with heated force into the antique, solid wood desk before them, the wizard crumpling to the floor as unconsciousness overcame him. He would have to act quick if there was any hope to be had. The Fidelius Charm had been broken with Peter Pettigrew’s admission to Bellatrix and her Death Eater squad, knowledge that scared him more than he had thought ever before possible. He had to save her. He would do anything to find her and keep her safe. Hopefully there was still time. *** When Severus arrived in the small village of Godric’s Hollow, night had fallen. It was cold and surprisingly clear, though the moon was notably absent from the sky. Stars hung like bright lights in the inky onyx sky, the constellations clearly visible overhead. A few buildings in the town center remained lit, some with inhabitants still clearly moving about in their routines and evening meanderings. As he reached the edge of the square, the darkness became far more consuming in its intensity, the little cottages becoming more and more spread out and many appearing dark from their resident’s having retired for the night. His jet-black hair whipped in the icy breeze- A tell-tale sign that autumn was rapidly turning to winter. Where was he supposed to go? On all of the occasions that he and Lily had spoken, not once had she ever specified the location of her past home shared with James Potter. Quietly he made his way down the lane, farther and farther from the small center of Godric’s Hollow, and towards the shadowy forest that made up the far reach of town. His heart was beating faster, sweat forming in a cool dampness between his shoulder blades- The fear for Lily’s safety making him feel all the more desperate in his need to reach her and protect her from his fellow Death Eaters. He could only hope that Frank and Alice’s experience as Aurors for the Ministry of Magic had proven a valuable asset in the confrontation that was undoubtedly already underway. He listened intently, searching for any sign of dismay in the quiet of the darkness. Nothing. Where was she? Suddenly a bright flash of red light caught the corner of his eye. Drawing his wand from the inner confines of his black robes, Severus held his breath, racing off in the direction of the obvious magic that was afoot. Praying silently that he was not too late. =============================================================================== Every time that she felt that the pain was too much, too overwhelming in its intensity, it would almost abruptly fade. Their four capturers- Death Eaters sent on an unimaginably dark agenda, had found much amusement in taking turns at torturing the two women. When Lily and Alice were writhing in the all- consuming throes of the Cruciatus Curse, the only sound more petrifying than their own screams was the sadistic laughter and amused mockery from their tormentors. “Listen to them sing!” “Wonder how long it’ll be until one of them breaks…?” “Me next! I want another turn at it!” It was sickening the enjoyment they were feeling from the cruelty that they were inflicting. In a brief interlude between curses, Bellatrix had paced the space between the two spent witches. Her heels tapped upon the floor with an echoed quiet contentment as she crouched at the crumpled form of Alice Longbottom, wrenching her head up by a handful of matted hair. Both eyes were blackened and swollen, tear tracks having stained both of her cheeks. Her lips were puffy and cracked, blood still oozing down her chin. “Where is the boy?” She remained steadfastly silent, her eyes unseeing as they stared into her crazed ones. Bellatrix slapped her with the back of her free hand, the sound deafening in the quiet of the now derelict cottage. “Do I need to ask you again?!” “I will never give you my son,” Alice told her in a whisper, “You’ll have to kill me.” “That can be arranged,” Rabastan chuckled. “She certainly looks grotesque,” Barty Crouch Jr. added, “Let me do it, Bella- I don’t mind.” The look which she gave her accomplice was one full of malice. With disgust she then threw Alice back away from her, lips curled back, teeth bared in dislike, “You’re a fool. Just as much as your idiot husband! Throwing everything away for nothing. Death will come to you in time, though not before we are ready for it and done with you-!” Bending close to the woman once more, “At least there is some enjoyment in your stubbornness… We will break you. Both of you.” In some ways Lily hoped that her death would be a swift one. That at least she would have the comfort of dying with Alice if she was forced to leave this world at so young an age. There was so much that she still dreamed she would accomplish, so much that she wanted to experience and learn. In finding Severus, it was as though her life had finally begun, truly started to take shape, and lead her down a path that she felt destined and determined to see through to the very end. A building sorrow, so unexplainable in its extent, mounted within her stomach, threatening to overwhelm her and take her over. She would likely never see him again, never realize the hope that had finally bloomed within her at the prospect of them being together. She had to be strong, she had to fight to live and to carry on. If not for herself, when everything seemed so hopeless, for Alice, for Severus, and for little Neville. Her likelihood of surviving was growing more and more dim by the moment, her fate already seemingly sealed from the brutality that was being continually waged against them. And yet, despite such overwhelming odds, such frightening prospects and dread- Hope remains. How everything changed in a moment’s time was hard to describe or imagine in its fullest extent. As Lily’s life seemed to pass before her eyes; the continued defiance of Alice in the face of true evil, a new change had suddenly taken place. First a flash of green light through the broken hole of a doorway. It had hit Rabastan Lestrange full in the chest, causing him to slam into the nearby wall and slide down into a lifeless corpse. His eyes remained open, though unseeing in their stare- Dead before he had hit the floor. Turning, his brother, Rodolphus Lestrange, had barely lifted his wand before he too had been hit with a spell, this time the light a vivid white. His eyes widened, wand falling from his fingertips and clattering upon the floor. Bellatrix’s eyes widened, her mouth opening in a deafening shriek. Her husband’s hands went to his throat, his eyes bulging with fright, blood splashing through his fingers, staining the front of his robes, his face going pale as he dropped to his knees and then fell face first onto the floor… Motionless. Bellatrix had raced past the two women, rolling Rodolphus onto his back and prying his fingers away from the deep slash that hit slit his throat from ear-to-ear. Seeing the moment as one of brief reprieve, Lily dragged herself to Alice, her heart beating so hard and fast she was certain it would break free from her chest. The youngest wizard, Barty Crouch Jr. stood momentarily in shock, mouth slightly agape from the surprise that had befell them. His eyes darted about the scene in fear, lingering upon Bellatrix sobbing over the body of her husband, desperately attempting all that she could to revive him. Slowly his attention returned to the two witches they had only moments before held an upper hand in regards to. He sneered at them, Lily and Alice holding each other close, and made his way towards them, his wand outstretched. Another burst of white light had him gasping and then falling sideways over the sofa. A deep slash appeared diagonally across his back, splitting the fabric of his robes to the skin, blood seeping from the cut. Rolling onto his side he grimaced, wand slipping from his fingertips. His eyes fluttered shut and his breathing grew shallow, blood staining the cushions of the couch and pooling onto the floor. With a shriek of unbridled rage, Bellatrix rose to her feet, her hair in even more disarray than usual, her mascara staining down her cheeks from the tears she had shed over the corpse of her husband. She rounded on the two women, then spun around searching wildly for the source of the destruction that had suddenly turned the tables so much. “Show yourself, you coward! You murdering bastard!” Through the silence that settled around the ruins of a house, the rubble of broken lives and dreams, the steady sound of footsteps crunched through debris and splinters. Through the darkness of the hole that was once the front door, a shadow emerged. Slowly the figure stepped into the dimness of the space that remained from the glow of the fireplace, his face pale and drawn, hair shoulder-length and jet-black. His eyes were dark- Darker than usual in the severity that they reflected as he looked upon the three women and the destruction they cowered in. “No! No, it cannot be! S- S- Severus?!” Bellatrix stammered. “You never were very bright, Bellatrix,” he bit out, his wand raised. “You've killed all of them-? You would kill me in order to save this traitorous filth?! This blood-traitor and her Mudblood pet?!” The quickness of his movements was astounding as he crossed the space and slammed his fellow lieutenant onto the ground. She coughed in her rage, struggling against his grasp. “Your cruelty surpasses even what I had believed you capable of committing,” he seethed, “It will give me great pleasure in ending you and the evil you so enjoy.” She spat in his face, “Fuck you! I will be remembered and avenged by the Dark Lord himself!” “As if he cares anything for anyone other than himself.” “At least I shall die unblemished- My blood pure, as yours will never be!” she smiled, her eyes crazed, “Avada Kevadra!” In his rush to disable her physically, he had not realized that she had still possessed the wand which had already caused so much pain. The green light flashed beneath his right arm in a well-aimed jolt which struck Alice Longbottom square in the chest, the light immediately leaving her eyes as she slumped in Lily’s arms. “NO!!!” Lily screamed, “Alice! Alice, no! NO!!! Please…! No, please! ALICE!!!” When Severus returned his stare to the evil witch beneath him, he was stunned, his rage having reached a peak. She laughed, her usual disturbing sing-song shrillness. “All of them dead… All but the Mudblood. Though I fulfilled at least part of my bidding…” leaning in close she pressed her lips a fraction of an inch from his ear, “There will be no bastard born to the Mudblood. I assume that abomination was your doing… Pity you could never be more like us, Severus.” Rather than magic, he snapped her neck with his bare hands, the life leaving her eyes and form at once. Stumbling to his feet he made his way over to Lily in her inconsolable grief. She cradled the body of her best friend in her arms, sobbing uncontrollably, the tears coming in rivers from her beautiful green eyes, her heart and being left shattered. He had managed to save her, though he had been too late to save Frank and Alice. He swallowed hard, unable to speak, unable to find the words to help console and soothe her broken heart. She had endured so much- None of it deserved or comprehensible in its wickedness. Looking down he saw the blood that stained the front of her robes, the knowledge that Bellatrix had been true in her last cruel words. There would be no child. That happiness that had been brought to them at the most unexpected of times, in the darkest of moments when there seemed so little hope had been dashed in the most vicious of ways. Though Severus had been able to remove the Death Eaters permanently from the ranks of the Dark Lord- Their corpses strung throughout the remains of the cottage in Godric’s Hollow that Lily and James Potter had once shared, he had too been wounded. Lily had lost their baby. He had been too late. He had failed both her and himself. Chapter End Notes This chapter had been in the works since this story's very first inception. It was difficult for me to write, especially considering how much I have grown to love Alice and Frank, (Alice being based off of myself in many ways). Lily's experiences are devastating. Not just through the loss of a child she had grown so excited about sharing and providing a life for, but through the loss of her best friends (family, really). And of course the immense betrayal from both Peter and James. Friends, this was the "heavy angst" of the fic. It was necessary, though left me deeply saddened... I would be lying if I didn't say that it left me angry and close to tears. XOXO ♡ Valardoheris Song: Shattered_-_Trading_Yesterday ***** Despair ***** Chapter Summary Inner turmoil and questions abound. Sometimes it's hard to be the strong one when all you want to do is just curl up into a ball and pray that it was all a nightmare. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “Nobody deserves your tears, but whoever deserves them will not make you cry.” -Gabriel García Márquez [ripples] The events that took place after Bellatrix’s death had been hazy to Lily. She knew that Severus had tried to calm her, to ease the pain that she had felt, but it had all been in vain. Both Frank and Alice were dead- There was no amount of magic that could ever resurrect them and bring them back to life. Neville, not even six months old, was now an orphan. It was a fact that she would have to live with for the rest of her life; a cruel truth that they had perished; murdered in cold blood, while she had somehow survived. Leaving the cottage, her once home with James Potter, felt nothing short of bizarre or strange. It was a mere husk of its former self; holes blown from every angle as a mark of the cruel Death Eaters and their explosive spells. A short distance away from the wreckage, Severus had briefly lowered her to the soft earth. She watched his lips move as he spoke to her, though she found herself unable to comprehend what it was that he told her- His words lost to the wind in her own despair. “Lily,” he tried again, “Lily, please… You must listen to me, we haven’t much time!” Her green eyes darted to his dark ones, finally hearing the words he spoke. He pressed his hands to her cheeks, the slightly roughened pads of his fingertips bringing about a wave of fresh emotion. Though still numb to much of her own pain, a dull ache had begun to linger in the unbearable hollow of her heart. It was the first true acknowledgement of the babe lost from her womb. “You must be strong, my love.” She nodded, choking back a sob, the tears escaping from her eyes and rolling down her cheeks. “They have cast the mark above the cottage,” Severus told her, motioning to the grotesquely large fluorescent skull with snake protruding from its mouth; it hung brightly and sinisterly in the night sky, “No one can know that you or I survived this encounter… We will contact the Order and Dumbledore in due time, but for now, we must keep ourselves safe.” “Sev?” “They will hunt us, Lily!” he told her with a sudden fierce intensity, “The Dark Lord will not rest when he learns of my betrayal… He would hurt you or anyone else in unspeakable ways in order to find me.” “Then leave me,” she gasped, unable to look at him, her voice quiet, “I can’t imagine hurting any more than I already do.” Despite the chill of the autumn wind and the building ache within her womb, nothing compared to the innermost turmoil that raged within the confines of Lily’s own mind. She had dreamed of this child- The hope that remained in a world so plagued by sorrow and darkness. Had it all been for naught? Had the dreams and wishes, the hopes and desires that the world might actually cease in its evil for only a short while been foolish expectations? It all seemed worthless now… The danger and adventure, the planning surrounding a new future that would be free of Voldemort and the Death Eaters. None of it mattered anymore- And none of them did either. Frank and Alice would still be dead when it was all over- If it ever was over. And besides that, she wondered how much she truly mattered. Severus would certainly be better off without her; she was positive that anyone would be. She could only slow him down… And she couldn’t live with herself if she ended up being the reason behind his death too. Her words cut like a dagger, piercing his usually stoic façade, and for a split moment, he felt just as willing to give up. But Severus hurried himself with covering their tracks instead, an action that was not lost on Lily. She wished that she could acknowledge his efforts, all that he had done, but she was just too exhausted in her current state to amount to much of anything at all. He scarcely spoke a word to her, his eyes showing no hint of the emotions that stormed beneath the surface. His brow was deeply furrowed in concentration throughout, though his thoughts remained a mystery. The explosion was deafening, the light not unlike that of a supernova in its sudden blinding brightness. Lily squinted against the white light, rising up on her shaky legs. Severus caught her before she could lose her balance and fall, his black cloak whipping around them both as his arms encircled her, and they vanished with a drowned out ‘pop’ into nothingness. When they had arrived, deep within the Forest of Dean, Severus found Lily limp within his arms. Lifting her, he cradled her within his arms, not unlike a- The sudden realization that their baby was truly gone overwhelmed him like humidity on the warmest summer afternoon. The pressure he felt within his chest was astounding, the kind that made the whole of him ache with the deepest kind of sorrow he had never before known. He couldn’t even fathom what it was that Lily must be feeling- It was as though he had failed her all over again. He had vowed to protect her, whatever the cost, and he had let her down… No, he had truly let himself down. He had seen the brightness in her eyes when she had revealed the knowledge of the life growing within her belly. He had been pleased with the news, though stunned at the same time. Perhaps it was because it had yet to really sink in? Strangely, knowing that the tiny soul was gone, somehow made that fact fill him with even more guilt. His feet tread softly across creaky floorboards, dust escaping from the cracks, blood sticking to his soles… It was slippery and thick, the scent a strong metallic iron that was abrasive to his nose. But there was something else there too… The silhouette of a large man, greasy black hair and filthy clothes. He smelled of hard liquor, the bottle still held between the fingers of his left hand. In the other he held a thick leather belt. Slap. The sound of the leather from the forceful strike was enough to make anyone unsuspecting jump. Not him, he was used to the sound… He had memorized just how long it would be until the next blow was landed, and the one after that. Slap. A woman sobbing in the corner, eyes wet with tears, knees brought up tightly to her chest. One of her eyes nearly swollen shut, her bottom lip still showing the signs of recently dried, thickened blood. The tent was cold when he slipped inside, laying Lily’s almost lifeless form upon the bed. He choked on a sob that nearly surprised him with its force- A detail that stunned him despite everything else that had already occurred that evening. The bed that they had shared together, made love in… Their bed. It was too much, and he knew that he needed fresh air and to clear his head before even he would become hopeless to the growing pains of sorrow that threatened to drown him so completely. He would get them firewood, and hopefully think of something worthy of saying when Lily finally woke up. He paused at the door to take in the sight of her once more, swallowing the lump of emotion at the back of his throat as he slipped outside. Countless armloads of wood later, sweat drying cold on his brow, Severus heard the indescribable wail of loss escape the confines of the tent- A sound both haunting and chilling in its brutal agony. Lily had awoken, the overwhelming pain consuming her, erupting in cries of grief that made his heart feel as though it was turning painfully within the confines of his chest. Severus lingered at the tent flap, desperate to go to her, though finding himself unable to move from the spot where he stood. He knew that he could not be strong for her when he had no strength left for himself. It was barely dawn when Lily had stirred from the dreamless sleep she had fallen into. The pain had dulled some from the time that had passed since her violent encounter with Bellatrix Lestrange and her fellow Death Eaters. She vaguely recalled that Severus had killed them, and the knowledge neither made her happy or sad. Deep inside she was screaming and crying just like she had when clutching at the lifeless body of her best friend. She lifted her hands and stared at the marred and bruised flesh. Whether the dried blood was solely her own was a matter of little concern… Her fingers were empty, just as much as her very being. Looking around she found herself seemingly alone in surroundings that were only vaguely familiar. It did nothing to squash the unease that it would only be a matter of time until the torture commenced once more, Bellatrix and her cronies bound to leap from the shadows when she least expected it. Why had she lived while the rest had died? Even the babe had succumbed to the nightmarish scenario that had unfolded within the cottage in Godric’s Hollow. How was it fair that she should breathe and be able to see the dawning of a new day, when the rest of them would never again know so many things that were so often taken for granted? Her eyes adjusted to the dim surroundings, eventually making out the form of her lover seated across the room, his head in his hands. He looked up, noticing her stare, and moved past her towards the tent flap. It was almost as though he didn’t even see her… That she was no more than a part of the decorum surrounding them. “Severus…” “You can bathe if you like,” he managed, not looking at her, “There’s a draught for pain on the nightstand closest to you- It will help you sleep.” “S- Severus?” Her voice was full of renewed anguish, intermingled with confusion. She reached for him, feeling as though he was aware of her, though unable to truly see her. He slipped outside, eyes closed and breathing deeply, desperate to fend off his own memories and frightening recollections that tore at his own mind and soul. The walls showed signs of blood splatter, the woman’s wails becoming louder and more desperate. The drunken bastard would laugh, the sound both chilling and enraging in its ugliness. His breath was sour with the remains of his drink, his teeth brown and rotting within his gums… Slap. The feel of warm blood upon his back, the gift of his father… Lily’s cries invaded him again, though she was silent within the tent. He couldn’t fight his own demons anymore, everything was hanging so heavily on him from the horrific events that would forever remain a part of their lives. He had been determined to be a better man than his father, to protect Lily from that kind of darkness that was so often hidden in plain sight. Yet, despite all of his attempts, it had once again managed to sneak into his life… Choking back a sob of his own, he slipped down to his knees and gave in to his sorrow. Chapter End Notes My heart breaks for our lovers. :'( “Then leave me,” she gasped, unable to look at him, her voice quiet, “I can’t imagine hurting any more than I already do.” I legitimately cried writing this. Also, thank you to everyone who is still staying with me and supporting me with such wonderful comments and kudos throughout! I love and appreciate you all very much. Song: My_Immortal_-_Evanescence ***** Resilience ***** Chapter Summary After so much sorrow, and a lapse in communication/ understanding, our lovers must fight their way through the darkness and reemerge stronger in the light. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “Sometimes you wake up. Sometimes the fall kills you. And sometimes, when you fall, you fly.” -Neil Gaiman [hope] December_of_1980 In the month since that fateful night that had so changed their lives completely, Severus and Lily remained in their quiet solitude of the campsite- Lost deep within the Forest of Dean. Things were hard for the couple, and Severus found himself continually turning away from Lily- From their bed, from himself, from everything. During the day they scarcely spoke, often eating in silence when they took their meals, or disappearing completely into their chores and necessary work. When nightfall came, he would sleep sitting up in a chair, leaving the bed for her. Through this period, Lily slowly found her own strength to push on and move forward. It was not unlike the time that she had realized her marriage wouldn’t work, and that she had to make her own way and find the happiness that she knew she deserved. It was not from a miraculous revelation or insight that suddenly came to her, but from the knowledge that she had to. Currently, she had no one who she could relate or sympathize with… Even if she was able to seek out a companion, the only person she would have ever discussed such matters with would have been Alice. Alice. But she couldn’t think about that now. The pain was still too fresh, the wounds barely healed. She did not pretend to understand why Severus had suddenly become so distant towards her, and despite her hurt feelings, she figured- Or at least hoped that it was his own strange way of coping with everything that had transpired. His distance had left her to contemplate and sort through her own emotions. She endured. However, it was not without the terrible pull of guilt or feelings of failure that threatened to occasionally consume her. She hadn’t realized how ready to be a mother she truly was- How much that feeling and longing for a child to call her own had deeply affected her. Bellatrix had cruelly stolen that from her in a moment of all-consuming evil. Was Severus’ distance an unspoken realization that she was weak? That she had been unfit to carry a child all along? It hadn’t been her fault! And yet her mind still shouted that it was, that everything was due to her own carelessness. =============================================================================== The Forest of Dean held a serene stillness in the quiet of the early morning, the snow sitting chilled upon the frozen ground, icicles hanging in shimmering crystal formations from all heights of the trees. The few animals that continued to call the woods home went about their routines in usual silent steps, searching for whatever grasses might remain deep within the wintery crust. Neither Severus or Lily had ventured from their secret hiding place since calling the forest home; neither had any inkling of what was occurring in the wider Wizarding World, or of what developments or news that might be of utter importance. As though by fate, or some unknown magic to either of them, their solitude was about to be ended with the arrival of an unexpected visitor. The black leather boots left tracks through the freshly fallen snow, though the footsteps were light enough to not be audible to anyone beside the individual leaving them in their wake. A lone snowy owl called from its nearby perch, the forest mostly silent as the sun continued rising from the east. The long deep purple robes swished silently around the man’s lithe frame, long white beard swaying as he continued on his path. Where precisely he was heading, Albus Dumbledore wasn’t certain, all he knew was that the Deluminator had not lied to him when he had overheard their voices. Against everything that ‘The Daily Prophet’ reported, and all of the intel that the Order of the Phoenix had gained, he was too aged a man to think himself insane at this point of his many years of life. He knew what he had heard, no matter what everyone else might suspect… No matter what the evidence might show. The possibility that they had survived, that they remained alive, though hidden- It was welcome news, something that he had to check up on. Deep blue eyes darted continually around him from behind his half-moon spectacles, searching for any clue or hint as to the location of the individuals in question. Protected from the various charms that he had put in place surrounding their camp, Severus Snape saw the aged man first. He had been stunned, frozen in place from the surprise at finding a familiar face so close at hand, wondering how the great wizard had come to discover their hiding place when it hadn’t been anything of common knowledge, lest of all to themselves. Selecting to not bother Lily with the surprising news, he took a deep breath, wiping his hands off on his robes and securing his wand firmly within his grip, before passing through the barrier. “Severus.” “Sir.” “You’re alive, then!” He nodded. “And Lily?” Severus found himself unable to answer his question, eyes instead studying his hands. “Lily lives as well?” Dumbledore pressed, asking once more. “Aye,” the younger man finally managed, “Much has happened.” “Indeed,” he nodded, “Might I join you for a short while? I presume that your camp is well protected… I do not wish to impose; however, I feel we have much to speak about.” A brief silence fell between them when all that could be heard was the sorrowful cry of the wind through the trees. Part of Severus wanted to deny his former Headmaster, to tell the old man that neither he or Lily wanted anything to do with him, to hear anything of what had been going on in the war against Voldemort. Hadn’t it all caused them all enough pain and suffering? Especially Lily… And how would she react, what would she think to find that they had been discovered in a place they had finally come to believe was deep enough hidden from all of the pain and tragedy that was all too common an occurrence in the real world? They had seen the evil that man and woman alike were capable of- Lily firsthand. But Severus knew better than to object so rudely to a man who had, through time, managed to accept him as changed enough to right past wrongs. He nodded, “I’d like to tell Lily first, if you don’t mind… Much has happened.” At the repetition of his phrase, Dumbledore nodded kindly, a spark of something unfamiliar momentarily visible in the electric blue eyes he was so known for, “I will wait.” Severus turned his back on the wizard and passed back through the invisible barrier, hoping that Lily would not be too shaken by the unexpected discovery. As he slipped through the tent flap he found her washing dishes in the tiny kitchenette, her long auburn hair tied up in a high and messy bun, the sleeves of her grey sweater rolled up past her elbows, humming something in a quiet, yet hauntingly beautiful melody. He watched her for some time, mesmerized by her movements, cursing himself for his continued inability to properly communicate with her all of the things that he wished he could say. She had stopped crying a fortnight after he had rescued her from the wreckage of Godric’s Hollow- If rescued was a proper description. Still, her words spoken in the aftermath continued to echo within the confines of his mind, breaking down his psyche in the earliest hours of the morning, or the latest hours of the night. Then leave me… I can’t imagine hurting any more than I already do. He cleared his throat pointedly, attempting to alert her to his presence without startling her. She glanced over her shoulder, wiping her hands on a dishtowel, “I didn’t think you’d be back yet…” “I hadn’t planned on it,” he blurted, immediately regretting the words and coughing uncomfortably, “We have a visitor.” Lily cocked her head slightly to the side, eyebrows knitting together slightly, “Who?” “I was chopping wood when I caught sight of movement through the forest,” he told her, “Dumbledore has stumbled upon our camp.” Her mouth opened slightly with surprise as she turned to fill the kettle with water and make the necessary preparations for tea, “He must be frightfully cold!” she exclaimed, “You should see him inside.” Nodding, Severus slipped back outside of the tent and rejoined their former Headmaster, leading him past the barrier that had protected them since escaping the evils that had very nearly torn them from one another again. “It’s such a surprise to see you, sir!” Lily managed as they entered the homey little tent, “I’ve just put on a pot of tea, it shouldn’t be long.” “Lily,” he managed, eyes transfixed upon his former Head Girl, “As I live and breathe… I had sworn we had lost the both of you.” She bit her lip, turning from his gaze and fiddling with cups, “In some ways you have.” “What happened?” Severus sat down at the small table where he and Lily shared their meals on occasion, hands moving through his long black hair, “It’s rather an unpleasant and long story…” “Regardless,” the aged man continued, “It comes as quite a shock that the two of you have managed to survive. I rushed to the scene myself, accompanied by Kingsley, Remus, and Minerva shortly after we received word of a mysterious explosion. However, by the time we had arrived all that remained of the cottage was debris and the remnants of death and destruction. The Dark Mark hung high in the sky, though all traces of those responsible were seemingly lost… As the days progressed into weeks we have learned more of the various deaths that occurred on the night of All Hallow’s Eve. My deepest condolences regarding Frank and Alice Longbottom.” Lily stiffened at the sink, her hands reaching out and clutching the basin for momentary support. She didn’t turn around, and Severus avoided his eyes as well. “You were both there?” He nodded. “What happened?” “Isn’t it enough what you already know?” Severus spat with sudden irritation, darkness flaring in his voice and form. “Sev…” Lily began slowly, her back still to the two men. He stood up from the table, the chair’s legs shrieking an unpleasant sound from the force of being moved back so quickly, “Damn it, why can’t we just leave it in the past!” As he spat forth his words, Lily turned around to face them. Her eyes were wide as she stared at him, seemingly scoffing in disbelief at his attempts to rebuff Dumbledore’s questions. Severus narrowed his eyes at her, flexing his jaw in irritation. He was not angry with her, nor was she at him, it was all just the intensity of their emotions and having to finally speak their parts of the dark tale that they had managed to somehow survive. Lily crossed the room and the space between them, Dumbledore having excused himself from the tent for a moment, having seen the interaction that was taking place. Severus watched as his hands moved to her face and gently brushed his thumbs around her eyes and down her cheeks. He was so focused upon her face and the motions of his hands, that he did not realize that she had made a reach all her own. Without breaking the gaze that they had established, Lily brushed the fingertips of one hand lightly under his chin and down his neck. He exhaled a hot breath in surprise, eyes softening at her touch, and despite herself, Lily found herself smiling inside. It was the first moment of something between them after weeks of sorrow had plagued every aspect of their lives. Though his face and expression remained one of fierce protection and grimness, his eyes slowly smoothed to something reminiscent of his past self- The man that he had become after finding a new promise of a future and life with this woman who he had long loved and pined for. She swept her hand further down the front of him, the feeling of his clothes and his form familiar, and yet new from their absence of proximity and true intimacy. Once midway, she shifted herself entirely, his hands moving away from her face as she slid both of her arms around him. Resting her head against his chest, she embraced him. Truthfully, it was not a gesture meant for him, it was what she had long needed from him. Lily knew that he was desperate to spare her from any more grief or pain that was associated with that fateful night, but she also knew that in not recognizing the magnitude of such an atrocious series of events that it was no better. She no longer wished to live in the past, to dwell upon the unchangeable events that would forever be a part of her life. However, to deny that they had ever happened, to pretend that it was all just a horrendous nightmare was also not healthy or reasonable. She needed for him to understand that she was not a broken toy, or a chipped piece of china that could never be repaired… She needed the assurance from him that she was not alone. Their awkwardness and distance had gone on long enough since Frank and Alice had been killed, and their babe had become nothing but a sad memory. No, Lily needed for Severus to continue being strong- They both needed to be strong in order for them to come through their heavy darkness whole. He was overly tense; she could feel it as she continued to hold herself to him. Even when he rested his hands against her back and pulled her closer to him; even when she felt his face bury in the top of her hair and a slow and heavy breath leave his throat in a low sigh. There was no doubt that their sudden closeness was something almost new again for them both and in that newness and acknowledgement of their hardships, equally strained and painful. “He doesn’t know what happened,” she managed, “We cannot qualm him for wondering.” He pulled away from her slowly, taking a step back, “I should get him.” Lily nodded, and Severus took another deep breath, his hands moving down her arms in an almost ghostly lightness, his fingers brushing over hers. His touch was nothing short of welcomed and missed, so much so that Lily almost questioned it happening at all. The tingling and slight pressure from where his fingertips and hands passed was both welcome and distracting. Without intending it, or perhaps even realizing it, Severus had seduced her. She was not yet ready for that though, one step at a time. She straightened and took a step away from him in turn as she made to finish the tea preparations, and he to fetch their former Headmaster once more. =============================================================================== The little wood burning stove kept the interior of the tent warm as Albus Dumbledore sat at the little table and sipped his piping hot cup of Earl Grey tea. Lily had remained in the little kitchenette, leaning against one of the dated cabinets, while Severus had joined their former Headmaster in the other wooden dining chair. They each had different tales to tell, together adding and interjecting portions as it became evident. How had Severus known where to find Lily when he had never before traveled to Godric’s Hollow, or seen the cottage she had once shared with James Potter? How had Lily and Alice managed to stay quiet despite the brutality that had been unleashed upon them both? Was Neville’s location still a secret? Neither Severus or Lily shared the detail of her miscarriage or the strain that had fallen upon their relationship since that fateful night on the last day of October. After the majority of the tale had been told, Lily excused herself to get some fresh air, Dumbledore having requested a moment with each of them alone. Severus had yet to tell Lily the detail of Peter Pettigrew’s allegiance to the Dark Lord, a factor he had learned while forcing the necessary information of her location from Lucius Malfoy. It was that detail that he revealed to Dumbledore in their moment of private dialogue. They then switched, Lily seating herself before the aged man, and Severus retreating to the exterior of the tent for a few moments. Her details were from that vicious moment where Bellatrix Lestrange had become loose-lipped; the moment right before she had murdered the babe within Lily’s belly. Pettigrew was right to tell us of your location and the meeting you were having with the Longbottom’s… James Potter did request that we keep you alive while ridding you of the bastard within your belly. As with Severus before her, Dumbledore had seemingly shown little reaction to the information, his long slender fingers interlacing in thought as he continued to occasionally sip his tea and listen to every detail. In the end, he had suggested that they remain in the safety of their camp until he was able to send word to them. It had been only just shy of a week before an owl arrived with news. They were to seek refuge at a cottage long owned by the Dumbledore family, kept in virtual isolation on the western coastline, and well protected by a Fidelius Charm that he was the Secret Keeper of. The only other soul that knew of the cottage’s existence was Aberforth, and there was no question of the man’s loyalty, even despite his lack of trust towards Severus Snape. It was the next day that the pair arrived at their new home, feeling like lost souls wandering in a world that had no true place for them. The cottage was nothing short of quaint in size, not all that much larger than the tent that they had spent the past month living in. But it did have its benefits when it came to a real bathroom and everyday necessities that were common amongst both Muggle and Wizarding homes. The scent off of the ocean, even in winter, was one reminiscent of childhood and easier times. It was a comfortable little house, everything that the two of them needed. After settling in, they discovered another note upon the table had informed them of the continuation of their former Headmaster’s plans. S.S. & L.E.P. I hope that you will find the cottage to your liking, it has been years since anyone has properly considered it a home. Students have left for the holidays; have planned a meeting for later this week at H.S.W.W. It is my hope that the two of you will join us- It has been long overdue. Only three other trusted Order members will be present. Yours, A.P.W.B.D -Reach the Hog’s Head Inn; A.D. will assist you from there... 8:30pm. Under the cover of darkness, Severus and Lily had managed to slip through the tiny village of Hogsmeade unnoticed, and into the abandoned barroom of the Hog’s Head. Leading the pair, Aberforth brought them to the little sitting room of his personal apartment, where they had met before. The portrait of Ariana Dumbledore remained on the wall in its usual position, though it had opened to reveal a secret passageway. Motioning that they should be on their way, the younger Dumbledore stood in silence as they slipped through the opening and gradually became lost from sight. When they had reached the end of the passageway, Severus and Lily found themselves in a room that neither of them had ever seen before, though obviously Hogwarts in its location. It was empty, all except for their former Headmaster who awaited them kindly. Much like his younger brother, Albus Dumbledore was quick to lead them from the space and into the abandoned corridors of the castle, speaking not a word, and walking at a brisk pace towards the Astronomy Tower. Given the hour, both former students knew curfew to be in place, with Argus Filch undoubtedly patrolling the many hallways with his equally nosey pet cat, Mrs. Norris. It was doubtful that they would cross paths with anyone during their time within the confines of the castle, though there was hardly a safer place that they could be given the circumstances. “The others are already here,” Dumbledore told them once they had reached the specified level and location of the meeting he had arranged, barring the door behind them so that they would have utmost privacy. “You will find Kingsley Shaklebolt, Remus Lupin, and Professor- Excuse me, Minerva McGonagall in the next room. They are all known members of the Order of the Phoenix, and I am assured of their loyalty above all others. They do not know that you are coming, nor do they realize that either of you live after the events of All Hallow’s Eve. It is time that they understand the gravity of the situation at hand, and what evils the Death Eaters and their Master are capable of.” He turned to Severus, “They also must understand what a great service you have done for us in light of all the potential danger.” “Are you sure that it’s safe?” Lily heard herself question, surprised to hear her own voice. Dumbledore’s eyes were filled with kindness as he studied her for a moment, “They have all taken Veritaserum.” Knowing the potion’s renowned effectiveness, as well as its power as the most widely controlled truth serum available within their world, Severus and Lily found themselves all the more relieved for whatever the meeting was bound to throw their way. As if sensing their approval, Dumbledore continued to the door ahead of them, “I will make the introductions.” At the appearance of Lily and Severus, the room went silent as the grave. Remus rose to his feet, eyes widening as they fell upon the auburn-haired woman he had once protected in the old London home of their fallen colleagues. After a short while, his gaze shifted to the tall wizard that stood beside her, his features hardly changed in the years since Hogwarts. Both Minerva and Kingsley exchanged mutual looks of shock and surprise, neither of them able to speak as well. “Though it has been proven that Peter Pettigrew was a rat within our ranks,” Dumbledore began, “I would be lying if I didn’t admit to us having a mole of our own within the Death Eaters… Unfortunately for the Dark Lord, his was nothing more than a cowardly fool. Though Pettigrew’s betrayal is nothing to quaff at, it is something of a shame we were unable to detect his treachery before he struck.” At his words he gave Lily a grim look, sadness playing in his blue eyes, “However, the Dark Lord never suspected that one of his lieutenants would be capable of finally seeing the light, and in that we have not lost everything, or hope of still triumphing over his evil.” “We thought you were dead!” Remus finally managed, making his way to Lily where she still stood silently at Dumbledore’s elbow; gently he took her shoulders in his hands and then embraced her tightly. “Very nearly,” she admitted, eyes meeting his for a quick moment before finding her shoes. “The house in Godric’s Hollow is nothing more than a crater,” Minerva managed, eyes wide, “We had presumed that there were no survivors… Especially after seeing what little had remained.” “It was a brilliant answer to a horrible series of events,” Dumbledore explained, “Kingsley, would you tell everyone what the Auror’s discovered at the site?” “Nothing,” he told them, eyes finding each person’s in turn, “Apart from the signs of the obvious usage of Unforgiveable Curses, there was little left to recover apart from the remains of Frank and Alice Longbottom, and then Bellatrix Lestrange.” “They found a lot of blood at the scene,” Remus added with a cringe, eyes still glued to Lily with concern. “Yes,” Kingsley continued with a nod, “Some of it belonging to the aforementioned three, though most of it identified as having belonging to the Lestrange brothers- Rodolphus and Rastaban. It came as quite the surprise within the Ministry of Magic when the allegiance of Bartemius Crouch Jr. was discovered through partial remains… Certainly not a positive revelation for his father, the Head of Magical Law Enforcement, to discover the treachery of his own son,” he paused, eyes coming to rest upon Lily, who looked up at feeling his stare, “There was a fair amount of blood attributed to you as well… We were all in mutual agreement that you must have been met with a similar fate to that of Frank and Alice.” “What happened?!” Minerva managed, concern in her voice, “My goodness, it must have been horrible.” The retelling of the events of that fateful night had been something that they had both been prepared would be expected of them. As much as they had dreaded speaking about it, about reliving the countless horrors and atrocious memories, they did so in hope that it might be for the last time. Severus and Lily once again omitted certain details, neither of them speaking of the knowledge that they had learned at differing moments, facts that still remained unspoken to each other. Only Dumbledore knew of everything in its almost entirety. In the end, Kingsley Shaklebolt was the only one to show a lack of emotion when it came to the night in question, a fact that was most likely due to his history as an Auror for the Ministry. But Minerva McGonagall looked disgusted and enraged, her hands balled up into fists upon the table before them. Remus Lupin looked nothing short of sick, he kept shaking his head with each new detail that emerged within their story; a look of anguish at what his friend had been forced to live through proved to have affected him quite deeply. Almost an hour-and-a-half later, the Hogwarts House Elves brought up food and beverage during a momentary reprieve. They moved about the space mingling in quiet conversation and stretching their legs. Lily kept her distance from the rest, and as if sensing her unease, Severus selected to make his presence known. She made no effort to turn in his direction, though when she felt the familiar warmth about her ear and neck, her eyes closed instinctively. Severus’ voice seemed to almost vibrate through her, from ear to stomach, and Lily found that the closeness of his body to hers was something she sorely needed. She slowly let out a deep breath, the flesh at the nape of her neck prickling. “Do you want to get some air?” When Lily finally blinked her eyes open, she found that he had moved before her and had offered her his hand, “Thank you, yes.” He cupped her fingers tightly to his palm, and then slowly slipped his own fingers between hers. The upper viewpoint of the Astronomy Tower was not far, and if it was clear enough out, it would prove an impeccable view of the heavens. Together they climbed the stone steps, eventually reaching a heavy wooden door only just before the true top. They slipped through it and out onto a small balcony that would normally fit around four people, though was predictably deserted. Lily removed her hand from his grasp at once and went to the railing, leaning upon it, the chilly winter air feeling refreshing within her lungs. The cold was dry, the snow upon the mountains illuminated in the darkness by the moon and the millions of stars shimmering overhead. As her eyes slowly adjusted, she smiled at the tiny snowflakes swirling before her, a sign that a new dusting of snow would be present by morning. Having forgotten her traveling cloak within the lower chamber, Lily became suddenly aware of just how frigid it actually was in the open. As if sensing her sudden cold, she found herself embraced on either side by the softness of Severus’ cloak, feeling the heat of him at her back. Tucking the garment around her more firmly, she stood as close to him as she could without touching him, a nervousness plaguing her as though she was suddenly a teenager once more. Still they struggled to find the words to speak to one another; the answer to the unspoken questions that were restless within their minds. The child they had both wanted. The tranquil lull she felt in the peaceful winter surroundings was beginning to fade in light of her wandering mind. With equal swiftness, she made up her mind to turn and face him. Gazing up she saw him clearly, the illuminating glow from the Astronomy Tower around them was no less radiant on skin as it was on the steadier falling snowflakes that surrounding them. He was peering out and over her head, focused upon the scenery, his dark eyes holding a softness that surprised her. When Severus looked down at her, his face suddenly became pitched in shadows. His eyes vanished into nothingness, the only hint of him made visible from the silhouette of his jaw; movement suggesting that he seemed to be preparing to speak. Lily’s breath quickened when she felt his fingers lightly brush and caress at her neck; she closed her eyes against his touch. She felt his warm breath upon her skin again, her own catching in her throat. What almost transformed into a word from Severus was cut short by the unexpected interruption from the doorway behind them. “Dumbledore asked me to find you,” Remus told them awkwardly, eyes apologetic, “He said that you can head for home if you’re ready, Lily… It doesn’t sound like we’ll be too much longer tonight.” She was cold immediately as Severus stepped away from her and spoke something to Remus. The wizard nodded at whatever Severus had spoken to him, and then flashed Lily a kind smile as he headed back down the staircase and out of sight. When they were once again alone together, Severus turned back to her, his face once more obscured in darkness. Lily felt him more than anything, his entirety lost to the night as he came closer to her still. His hand cupped her jaw, pulling her face up so that her cheek rested against his own. His mouth was next to her ear, his voice quiet and calm. “I won’t be long, but you must listen,” he began, pulling her closer still, “Make no stops when you leave, since you will be Aparating alone. Do not pause for anyone or anything that might incidentally appear. Go straight to the cottage by the sea and lock the doors up tight.” He held her almost impossibly close, voice urgent, “Do you understand?” She nodded, “Yes. I understand.” As he backed away from her, she smiled. Despite the awkwardness and distance that had come between them recently, she was no less touched by his continued concern for her, especially after everything that they had gone through. Perhaps something like hope truly did remain. *** Lily had tried to stay awake and wait for Severus’ return, but eventually she had dozed off, all but forgetting his impending arrival. It was well past the witching hour when she was startled awake from her dreamless sleep. It was not the ‘click’ of the door, or the sound of familiar footsteps within the cottage which awakened her from her slumber- No, it was rather the crash of noise from the living room that seemed to reverberate throughout the whole space. Instinctively she burrowed herself deeper beneath the blankets, her eyes glued all the while upon the door that she could barely see through the surrounding darkness. Nothing ever made its way inside of the room, but the intermittent sounds of destruction from the other room were nothing short of deafening. Eventually, the more robust banging faded, though she was still able to make out the distinct sound of angry muffled words and cursing. She wasn’t certain what had motivated her to leave the comfortable warmth and safety that was her bed, but rise she did. Fumbling through the darkness she pulled on a white T-shirt and pair of grey sweatpants, leaving her feet bare. She ventured into the room that contained Severus with some caution, unaware of what had possibly possessed him into having had such an outburst. It escaped her how he could be so upset, though she knew that if there was any possible way of her easing whatever suffering he might be feeling, she had to try. Lily moved carefully into the living room, gingerly side-stepping the various destruction- Books, splinters of wood, and broken glass. She reached the sofa, standing at the far end, and stared at the profile of her lover through the dimness. He sat on the floor, his back against the piece of furniture, his legs stretched out in front of him towards the fireplace. He was surrounded by the wreckage of the room, seemingly unaware or uncaring of the mess, and staring deeply into the dying coals of the fire. Severus could see his in his peripheral vision, and watched as she made a tentative step towards him, his own fierceness of tone surprising himself, “Don’t!” he bellowed, “How could you not have told me about what she said?!” She startled at his words, but the rest of her remained calm, moving no further than where she has already stepped. She understood the meaning of his question at once, knowing that Dumbledore had revealed to him and the others about the brutal confession Bellatrix had uttered during her torturous rampage. Instead of turning to leave or answering his inquiry, she slowly cleared a patch of debris from the sofa, and then sat down. She waited, speaking not a word. In the dim light she watched Severus’ eyes shift back and forth in little increments, clearly working through some inner conflict that plagued his mind. Her quiet observations were interrupted by the unexpected feel of his fingers lightly coming to rest upon her foot, his thumb gently brushing the sensitive skin in the smallest of caresses. He didn’t look at her, the deep red coals of the fireplace still holding his attention, but his fingers curled around her ankle as his thumb continued to work in its attentions. Only when he had stopped for a moment in the tiny strokes, did Lily take the opportunity to slip her own fingers over his. He was still looking away from her, but automatically twined his own in and around hers. With slow movements, Lily stood, her hand still in his, taking the few steps that remained in order to be next to him. Though his vision remained trained upon the glow within the remaining embers, when he felt Lily’s knee and thigh brush against his personal space- His chest, followed by the backs of her fingers brushing his hair behind one ear, and then tracing the line from his temple to jaw, he closed his eyes. She untangled their fingers, his arm softly dropping back to his side. He could smell her, his senses seemingly coming alive in the closeness of their proximity. She was fresh and clean, though just a hint of vanilla and honeysuckle seemed to shine through. With his eyes closed, his body at ease, he found that it was the calm of her familiar scent that kept him relaxed. Even when he felt her sit astride his thighs, even when he felt her fingers manipulate his neck so that he was tilting his head back, even when her lips came to rest over his. She was not kissing him, just resting there, her nose lightly brushing his. As Lily managed to lull him into a truly comfortable and calm state, he realized just how much she always had been everything that he needed. Her breath was the warmth of a summer day, her body the soft bed that he wanted nothing more than to sleep in for eternity. Her hands somehow had the effect of replacing his tension and troubles with her own peace and serenity. Slowly all of the evening’s details and events seemed farther and farther away- Each of her touches and caresses becoming all the more needed and welcome. It was as though she understood that it was not only for her or him, but something that they both truly needed. Moving her lips away and leaning back slightly, Lily lightly moved her fingers down from his scalp to his face, tracing a path from the back of his neck to the front. Severus’ eyes remained closed, but he let out a deep breath of contentment. His mind formed a wall of heat and arousal that he had not known since the darkness had threatened to consume them both- Since he believed he had lost her forever. Every time Lily placed her lips upon his skin, a steady tremor seemed to vibrate through the both of them. There was no sound, no audible source, just the feeling. She found herself unable to hold back the smile that she felt at knowing his pleasure from her attentions. It made her truly happy for the first time in what seemed like ages. Through her weeks of darkness and all-consuming despair, it seemed as though a streak of light had finally appeared to lead her forward. She leaned into him even more, tucking her face against his stubble- roughened skin, feeling as though letting go of him would only plunge her once more into the endless melancholy that she had been drowning in. This time when his hands moved over her back, she felt his fingertips tighten in their hold of her- As though he needed her just as much as she did him. They stayed like that for a long while, neither willing to move, neither needing to utter a single word. Eventually, Lily stirred within his arms, her voice seeming to come almost straight from him. It was one word, the name he always longed to hear her speak, and would never tire of hearing her say it for all the rest of his life, “Severus…” When he bowed his head forward again and opened his eyes to focus, he wondered for just a fleeting moment if he had fallen asleep and was still dreaming. She seemed made of the glow from those remaining embers. It was as though they had surrounded her and brought life to her through their entrancing and hypnotic glow. He touched his fingers to her face and neck to prove that he was living and breathing at the sight of her before him, and he silently prayed that he might remember it always. For a moment, Lily also wondered whether he was sleeping before her, though his dark eyes remained intently focused upon only her. She smiled at him, and then moved back out of his reach, away from his touch, off of his lap, and stood before him. His eyes never left hers, and he rose, knowing that she was seeking he follow her. He knew in that moment that he would journey with her to the ends of the Earth if she willed it. Severus stared at Lily, her smile remaining upon her perfectly pink lips, her arm extended, offering him her hand. Who was he to resist her after so long a time? The choice was simple; he gave her his hand and followed her wordlessly as she led him into the bedroom. She had undressed him slowly, removing one piece of clothing at a time. By the time he had found himself naked before her, he was also incredibly hard. He ached for her in a way that he had never before thought possible, and in a way that he could scarcely even explain if it had been asked of him. He stood in wait, watching each movement that she made with quiet awe of her grace and beauty. How he loved her. When she had backed away from him and began removing her own clothing, he had felt his cock twitch and the removal of each article of clothing in turn. When she too, stood equally bare before him, every curve of her body held him transfixed as though he were seeing it for the very first time. The slow rise and fall of her breasts with every inhale and exhale of breath, was made even more mesmerizing as they pushed against his body when she moved to embrace him. The sensation of skin-on-skin did nothing except fill his already warmed blood with a new burning heat. “Lily…” his voice was hushed and heavy as he spoke her name, moving behind her. He wrapped his arms around her, burying his face within her thick and fiery red hair, ignoring the fact that she undoubtedly felt his heated erection at her back. He wanted to feel her, to feel himself against her. Moving her long hair aside, he placed his lips upon the soft skin of her neck, slowly moving his lips to the nape of her neck and then between her shoulder blades. He came to rest his forehead in that same place, his fingertips wandering over her naked form. He sought to rediscover her- Every inch of her. In the wake of his touches, she began to almost purr and softly moan her approval. He gently turned her in his arms, needing to taste her mouth, and finding in the urgency of her kiss, that she seemed to need it just as much as he did. Lily kissed him so hard and so deep that it was as though her very life depended upon it. In response, he kissed her back with an equal desperation, knowing he would give his life for hers in a heartbeat if it meant seeing her happy once more. When she broke the kiss, his hand lingered upon her face. He was overcome with her beauty, even with the added redness of her mouth from the coarseness of his unshaven skin. His hands drifted down the slender bend of her neck, across her shoulders and upper arms, and down to her breasts. His thumbs brushed across the sensitive flesh of her nipples in almost feather light caresses, teasing them into hardened points. At some point during his attentions, his mind suddenly drifted to thoughts of the other. Lily watched his face as his hands moved from her chest, one settling upon her hip, while the other came to rest low on her belly. His dark eyes held a deep sadness, but only for a moment before he looked at her directly. It was hard to judge his emotion, though she sensed an understanding in what it was that he felt. She placed her hand over his, and felt a pang of sorrow as he petted her tenderly where the baby would have grown. She pulled away from him, moving his hand in the process, leading him up onto the bed. He couldn’t look away from the loveliness of her as he entered her slowly, melting into the exquisite heat and slick tightness that was uniquely her. It had seemed like a lifetime since he had loved her. In the same moment that he filled her, he felt her fingernails scrape upon his back, followed by the sound of what seemed to be a painful cry amidst her breathing. He immediately locked his eyes with hers and felt his heart break at the sight of tears falling from her stunning emerald green eyes. Without a second thought, he retracted himself from her, staring at her with quiet concern, though she refused to meet his eyes with her own; instead silently shedding more tears. “I’m sorry,” she half gasped, half whispered. He ran a hand through his jet-black hair in worry, “Did I hurt you?” She shook her head, biting her lower lip in an attempt to contain her emotions, though choked on a sob nonetheless, “I’m so sorry…” Lying beside her, he reached over and turned her face so that she had to look at him. He then ran his fingers soothingly through her hair. “Why are you sorry?” She blinked fresh tears from her eyes, sobbing her unspoken grief from what seemed to be deep within her soul, “Because I couldn’t save it…! I couldn’t protect the baby.” Severus forced the breath that he had been holding from his lungs and immediately felt his chest ache. For the moment words escaped him, his own emotions threatening to loosen themselves with the unbridled guilt he felt at seeing the pain that Lily was in. “I know you’re disappointed…” she cried softly. “No,” he interrupted her, his answer coming quickly, his own voice filled with an emotion that he had scarcely ever heard before, “I’m not angry… Not upset…” he trailed off, coughing slightly in an attempt to regain some composure; he whispered almost too quietly to hear, “Not the baby…” He could not find the words to explain the flashbacks to his childhood that her suffering had brought, though he suspected she might comprehend his inner pains. She knew about the terrible truth of his youth and the history he held with his abusive father. Looking into her eyes, he saw that she seemed to understand. Blinking her tears away, Lily moved one hand up and slowly rested her palm upon his cheek. He closed his eyes, taking her hand in his and gently planting a tender kiss to that same palm. She then slipped her other hand to the back of his neck and pulled him to her. He rolled on top of her again, tracing a fresh trail of kisses from her shoulder up the curve of her neck and jaw. The weight of him was welcome; he made her feel safe in a world so full of uncertainty. Eventually Lily’s fingertips began to wander once more, her touches becoming more heated and full of desire. He was no longer able to hold back his inner strain, and responded to her caresses by grinding his hips against hers. In response, she reciprocated his motions, an act that only reignited his burning passions for her. They made love slowly, each chasing the other’s demons and fears away. Every touch was met with another, every sigh answered with a moan. Their lips kissed away any remaining inhibitions, their breath merging and resonating in a mutual calm. They were as close to one another as humanly possible, her legs wrapped tightly around his body, his hands cradling her neck and back. It was in those quiet moments they re-learned one another, rediscovering the connection that could never be broken or completely lost- No matter the trials and tribulations they might be faced with. They had lived through so much in their years spent together, both before and after their time spent apart. But through their moment of intimacy, or understanding and lack of secrets, both knew one thing for certain: They would never be parted again. Chapter End Notes A few things... 1. The Dumbledore family's cottage by the sea is something I pictured to be very similar to the Shell Shack that Bill and Fleur Weasley reside in. So, that was my inspiration. :) 2. Only fictional man I love close to equal of Severus Snape is probably Remus Lupin. Such a good guy. 3. I love the transformations that Lily and Sev go through in this chapter as they re-learn how to love both themselves and each other. Also- OVER 3000 HITS!!! Guys, thank you so much. The comments and kudos brighten my day and let me know that you really enjoy what I'm writing. There is so much more still to tell in this story, and I am so grateful for all of you that are still in for the ride with me until the very end. I've been working on this story in part since 2008 and it's great to finally be putting it up for people to see. Song for this round... One of my favorites, and yes, I listen to it super early in the morning sometimes on my way to work and belt it out at the top of my lungs. (I'm not ashamed, I love the 80's, and it's that good) I_Remember_You_-_Skid_Row ***** The Werewolf ***** Chapter Summary Remus reacts to learning of possibly not just one friend's betrayal... But another. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “There is love in me the likes of which you’ve never seen. There is rage in me the likes of which should never escape. If I am not satisfied in the one, I will indulge the other.” -Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley [wolf] Earlier that evening… Lily had Aparated to the cottage by the sea from the balcony high upon the Astronomy Tower. She had been both emotionally and mentally exhausted from the rehashing of terrible memories that still threatened to cripple her from time to time. Severus greatly admired her strength to carry on- Even with how useless he knew he had been to her since that fateful night. But part of him knew that he had also not imagined the budding affection that had to begun to develop between them once more…. Hell, they could cut the sexual tension with a knife if they had wanted to; neither willing enough to be the first to make a move. He would wait as long as she needed, knowing that he would be satisfied if meant only being with her until the end of his days, regardless of a return in the intimacy that they had once shared. As he neared the meeting room on one of the lower levels of the tower, he paused at overhearing the voices within. “How do you think I fucking feel?!” Remus Lupin was shouting, “Not just one friend… Not just that daft idiot!” “Remus, please…” Minerva McGonagall had protested. “Or what?!” he fired back, lips curled back over his teeth in a snarl, “I’m bloody sorry, but none of you could possibly understand how I’m feeling! All of my life, people have recoiled from me in both disgust and fear when they learn of what I really am… Of what that fucking sadist did to me- What that monster made of a mere child.” There was a sigh from Minerva at his words. Not one of pity, but one of helplessness. Severus crept closer to the room, remaining out of sight. “Above all others, I was terrified when it came time to attend Hogwarts,” Remus continued quietly, “Not just out of fear of maiming or unintentionally killing someone… That was such a small factor. No, I was frightened about potentially making friends and then finding myself rejected- A silly thing for most children, though for me an entirely different matter. I had never had friends for long- Certainly not after their parents came to understand that I was cursed beyond normal magic’s healing. For the first time I was faced with the prospect of making friends, though the remaining threat of being ostracized when they inevitably discovered the incurable sickness that poisoned the very blood in my veins.” He paused, “We became Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot and Prongs… I could tell them anything and know that they would not betray me or act in such a despicable manner. Clearly I was wrong about that too.” “Yes, you certainly were,” Severus interrupted, no longer able to hold his tongue, “Your little band of friends has long been capable of abuse towards anyone not keeping with ‘Marauder’ ideals…” Remus clenched his fingers into a fist, clearly surprised by Severus’ unexpected entrance. For a long moment they just stood in silence staring at one another. On one side of the room, the sandy haired former Prefect, surrounded by much the same bias Gryffindor faculty members that seemed to always back and protect the infamous quartet during their years at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. On the other side stood the long underestimated Slytherin, his shoulder-length black hair and narrowed dark eyes a sharp contrast to the Werewolf before him. They were the same age, both of differing backgrounds, though circumstances that remarkably resembled the other in similarities- Requiring a need for friendship and understanding. One had managed to find it, even if it had meant the painful truth that he was now forced into hearing. “You’re right,” Remus managed at last, eyes softening, “Even so, I never thought either of them capable of something quite like this… I mean, Peter’s always been a weak little shit, but James?” he shook his head sadly, “Damn it… I’m not sure how Sirius will take it.” Though he said nothing, the question was plain upon Severus’ face at the words spoken. Remus opened his mouth to continue, but Dumbledore cleared his throat pointedly instead. Stepping forward he motioned that Severus join them and take a seat. He didn’t move an inch, his feet firmly planted to the stone, eyes full of distrust. “I had thought the information something of common knowledge between you and Lily,” Dumbledore managed, “I apologize for my ignorance…” Severus struggled to contain his building rage and spoke through gritted teeth as he managed his question, “Out with it, then…! I suppose we should remedy my lack of understanding.” “Bellatrix Lestrange mentioned a very troubling bit of knowledge that we had not been aware of until Lily spoke of it to me from your hiding spot within the Forest of Dean,” Dumbledore began, “Though we have not yet looked into the information gathered, we all fear it an important- Rather, immediate situation which must be addressed.” Severus looked as though it was taking all of his strength to remain calm and collected, clearly no further satisfied by his former Headmaster’s preliminary explanation. What hadn’t Lily told him? “You both learned of Peter Pettigrew’s betrayal of the Order upon the same night, albeit in different ways,” he continued, a grimness coming over his usual emotionless features, “It seems that James Potter may too share in the blame when it comes to the ensuing events… Though to what capacity we do not yet know.” “What did Bellatrix say to her?” he questioned, his own voice low and almost a whisper, though chilling in its tone all the same. “We are not certain yet if it was merely callousness upon her part, or in the unlikely possibility, the truth.” “What. Did. She. Say?” Severus repeated, clearly a moment away from exploding. “Enough with protecting him!” Remus growled, eyes flashing to the aged Headmaster, “James needs to answer for the questions we have! Damn him… Damn all of this.” With a sigh, Dumbledore added the information that Lily had yet to tell Severus, the frightening last piece of her story from that terrible night, “Bellatrix mentioned that James Potter had requested that they keep her alive- “ “But kill the child she was carrying,” Remus completed, interrupting the aged wizard between them, his eyes both angry and sad at the same time. How had James known about the babe? Almost as soon as the question entered his mind, Severus realized how little it mattered in actuality. Had they been too reckless in their loving? Had all the blame been deserving of them for the course of events that had ended up taking place? Lily had not wanted to cohabitate with James after all that had transpired between them. Both of them had repeatedly voiced their concerns to Dumbledore about his decision surrounding the arrangement, not to mention James’ continuing hope for reconciliation with Lily, and how he would inevitably react when learning about her relationship with Severus. “We had warned you that something like this might happen,” Severus told him darkly, his ability to restrain his emotions cracking by the second, “She never should have been forced to stay in that house; remaining under a false pretense with her life in danger because it was not yet the right time for you to reveal my undercover spying for your fucking Order!” A silence descended upon them in the room, nobody willing themselves to speak first- Knowing that nothing could ever change the horrible truth that was the night of All Hallow’s Eve, or the current circumstances that they were faced with. “You’re right,” Albus Dumbledore told him, his answer quiet, though undeniably sincere. “Now what?!” Severus spat. “We act,” Remus told him, stepping forward. “Indeed,” Minerva nodded. “Lily’s confessing is a troubling one,” Kingsley stated, “We would be fools to not follow through with an investigation into the reasoning of any acting member of the Order who might be connected in something so foul in nature. It’s inexcusable. We all must have our answers.” Remus came face-to-face with Severus, allowing Albus Dumbledore his quiet retreat, “I do not claim to understand the magnitude of pain or anger that either you, or Lily must feel. I do not claim that learning of your changes in allegiance have allowed for you any reason to better trust us… Nor would I be lying if I stated that I trust you fully given the treachery that seems to be afoot.” He paused, “More than anything though, I realize that there is nothing that I can ever say to you which will ever prove enough for the reproachable history that we Marauders have shared with you. I don’t claim to speak for them, nor do I have any understanding of the inner workings of their minds. However, I can promise you that nether myself or Sirius had any knowledge of these events; I vow to find the reasoning behind them if it’s the last thing I do.” “Remus has expressed his intention to confront and bring in James Potter,” Kingsley added, “Pettigrew has long since vanished, though Potter remains in hiding under Order protection, much like the rest of us.” “It would seem that he doesn’t know of the accusations that have been leveled against him,” Minerva interjected, “Certainly it would seem that he has no ties to the Dark Lord- Why else remain?” “He’s an arrogant prat,” Severus spat. “Always has been,” Remus nodded, the corners of his mouth twitching with the hint of a smile, “I know his whereabouts; I won’t rest until I get answers.” “If he is responsible, as Bellatrix made it seem,” Severus began, tone even, his posture serious, “I will kill him.” The room fell silent at his words, all eyes eventually coming to rest upon the aged Headmaster who had retreated close to the fire, a short way apart from the rest. For a long while he stared into the dancing flames- Red, orange, and yellow. When he finally spoke, his voice was a whisper, his blue eyes coming to rest upon the grown Slytherin in a room of former Gryffindor Lions. “If he is to blame, I would readily do it myself.” Chapter End Notes We can't claim that they're friends, but there is certainly a mutual understanding that has come between Remus and Sev. While they will always have their differences, one must agree on their mutual affection for Lily. The real question is: How will Sirius Black react? Song is from one of my most favorite movies, extremely haunting and beautiful. Pan's Labryinth. Pan's_Labryinth_Lullaby_-_Javier_Navarrette ***** Marauders: Part I ***** Chapter Summary Remus Lupin must figure out what went wrong when it came to the friends he long considered family, as well as the heinous crimes attributed to those same individuals. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.” -Mark Twain [glasses] January_of_1981 Remus Lupin walked alone through the rainy streets of London. It was dreadfully dreary and grey- An atmosphere oddly in sync with his melancholy mood. In the last month his world had been flipped upside down through an endless array of sorrowful news and unexpected surprises. While Frank and Alice Longbottom remained very much deceased, their son an orphan, Lily had seemingly been resurrected from the dead. Though seeing her again, holding her in the flesh, had been a moment of utmost shock and relief, a terrible truth remained. In the place of mourning he had once felt within his heart at the news of Lily’s untimely murder, he now felt the sting of betrayal and overwhelming deception. When Albus Dumbledore had summoned him for a meeting at Hogwarts, he had not known the purpose. For over a year he had been actively observing the various werewolf communities throughout Great Britain, so it was only a logical assumption of his to predict the aged wizard sought a report on his progress. He had been surprised upon finding both Kingsley Shacklebolt and Minerva McGonagall in attendance, as well as the news that they were still awaiting the arrival of two others. Curiosity left him wondering who the remaining two arrivals would be- Perhaps Sirius Black and James Potter? It would be good to see them again since the terrible series of events had occurred in Godric’s Hollow. James had been out with them when the Death Eaters had attacked the cottage- Peter Pettigrew, their fourth, and James’ Secret Keeper, having deceived them all. Remus had excused himself early from their tavern-hop, planning on a thorough night’s rest before resuming his work for the Order of the Phoenix in the morning. He had almost reached the door of his flat when he had been alerted to trouble. While the Death Eaters might share in their frightening tattoos from Voldemort as a means of communicating with each other, Dumbledore had arranged for a far less obvious means of connecting to his trusted allies. Members of the Order had their wands enchanted upon entering the innermost circle- Not in a way that stripped the user of control, or proved a dangerous tracking device. In fact, nothing that was a hindrance in any traditional sense. Whenever there had been an emergency, or something requiring immediate concern, the tip of one’s wand would glow crimson red. It was rare, though when it happened, they were to meet at once within the Hog’s Head. There they would be briefed on what exactly had occurred, before proceeding as expected or necessary. The rest had been history. In the aftermath of their horrific discovery of the cottage, Sirius Black and James Potter had arrived. The reaction that had come over James had been nothing short of paralyzing in nature. He had attempted to race past them all into the still smoldering ruins of his home, only to have been caught by the arms and restrained by both Sirius and Remus. The scream that had come from him was something far more animalistic than human, a supposed mixture of fury and despair. “There were no survivors,” Dumbledore had told him, voice soft and apologetic in tone. “Mate, I’m so- “ Sirius had tried. “DON’T TELL ME YOU’RE SORRY!” James had roared, struggling against the tight grip that his childhood friends held upon him, “Let go of me, you bastards!” “There’s nothing left, James!” the words had felt cruel when he spoke them, but Remus had always seemed the logical and calculated one of their group, and James was bound to listen to him above all else. “She can’t be…” “She’s dead, mate…” Sirius had echoed, grip loosening slightly, “Lily’s gone.” “Get him out of here,” Dumbledore had ordered, scarcely looking at any of them, “We haven’t much time before others arrive.” Time. Perhaps it had been James’ plan all along to run down the clock… To waste as much of their valuable time as he could manage, assuming it meant a means of covering his own tracks; saving his own rotten neck. Had he really thought the Death Eaters capable of sparing the life of one Muggle-born? Had he truly been willing to sacrifice the life of dear friends, and an innocent unborn child? All to keep Lily alive? More so, how did he figure any part of his evil scheme could possibly convince Lily into returning to him? After he had murdered the babe within her womb. The hardest thing for Remus was his attempt at keeping a clear and level-head. It was difficult not to pass an immediate guilty verdict on one of his oldest friends- Especially given the evidence. He knew that he would be lying if he called James anything other than a ‘jealous man,’ especially in regards to Lily. He had seen the levels of depravity and torment capable of his friend during their years at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry- Mostly surrounding the bond between his now ex-wife and Severus Snape. Snape. Had James somehow deduced Lily’s renewed relationship with the former rival from so many years ago? If so, Remus was beginning to understand the darkness and gravity of the situation even more. He felt revolted, dirty, and sick. Just as the queasiness and unbearable scenarios nearly overwhelmed him, Remus found himself stumble out of an alley and upon the precise address that he had been heading towards: 12 Grimmauld Place. Chapter End Notes These next few chapters will vary some, though will tend be quite short in length- Something that was somewhat intended. Right now it just makes sense for me to break them up, though I may change it down the road and combine them at some point. But for now I'm going to just rock it. :P Thank you all for still reading and commenting, I can't express enough how much it means to me and helps fuel my creative-juices. Haha. Song: Mad_World_-_Gary_Jules ***** Marauders: Part II ***** Chapter Summary Moony and Padfoot have a hard conversation. Chapter Notes I promised rapid updates, so that's what y'all are getting. Yes, that means two in one day. The big moment is still coming... I promise. :) See the end of the chapter for more notes “The mystery of human existence lies not in just staying alive, but in finding something to live for.” -Fyodor Dostoyevsky [ashtray] Knocking upon the front door of the ancestral home of the Black family was not something that Remus Lupin often found himself doing. Never in his youth had he ever visited his fellow member of the Marauders at his home. Coming from very old wizarding blood, and boasting one of the longest uninterrupted Pure-blood lineages within the United Kingdom, the Blacks were a well-known family in the magical world. Unlike other offspring born to the elite privilege of the Sacred Twenty-Eight, Sirius Black had not conformed to the usual expectations that other Pure-bloods of his status considered a birth-right. One such example had been something almost entirely out of his control- His being sorted into Gryffindor House at Hogwarts. For generations- Or at least as long as anyone living could recall, everyone born into the house of Black had forever been sorted into just one of Hogwarts famous Houses; the most respected in their opinion, Slytherin. Thus, it came as quite a shock when the firstborn son of Orion and Walburga Black, the heir to his great family’s fortune and fame, was placed with the courageous students long coveted by founder Godric Gryffindor. They had not been amused, and though Sirius had continued to live at home for much of his formative years, he became more and more disenchanted as time had worn on. Remus could still remember the smug look and laughter that Padfoot had been unable to contain upon returning to Hogwarts after their usual Holiday break. “What are you so happy about?” James had questioned, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you happy to be back at your studies.” “Left a surprise for my Mum and Dad before I left,” he chuckled, winking at one of Lily’s friends as she walked past. Always the flirt. “Do tell!” Peter had pried, nearly salivating in excitement. “I used a Permanent Charm on some Muggle goods I acquired in London over the break,” he grinned, “I’m certain Mum will positively shite herself when she sees my handiwork.” “Do you think that’s a really good idea?” Remus had questioned, always the practical one. He snorted, “Hardly matters now, it’s already done!” “What were they of?” James asked, elbowing his best mate in the ribs playfully. “Some were just Gryffindor banners and the like,” he began with a shrug, “The better additions were a few of Muggle transport- Motorbikes and the like, and then some of Muggle women.” “She’ll have a fit!” James agreed, laughing with an approving nod. “Especially when she sees what the broads are wearing,” Sirius winked, “Or how little, I should say…” Peter had stared with his mouth partially agape, clearly not understanding the most recent jape. “Some are topless, mate,” Sirius explained, reaching for Remus and groping his chest crudely, “Got their tits out and the tiniest panties you’ve ever seen!” Remus had shoved him off, unable to conceal his amusement at the mockery of his good friend’s psychotic mother. Walburga Black had made it her mission in life to preach the necessity of Pure- blood ideals, and turn her nose up in disgust at anyone else. Theirs was a bloodline that demanded respect, and she would be damned if anyone tainted the generations of purity that they had made a point of preserving. The antics of her eldest child had been nothing short of rebellious and revolting to her passionate views. His homecoming after being sorted into Gryffindor had brought about restrictions within their home that made 12 Grimmauld Place not unlike a prison in its vices. She had written countless letters to both Albus Dumbledore and the Governors that oversaw the running of Hogwarts as a respected learning institution. Each one detailed her opinion that there had been some mistake when it came to Sirius having been sorted outside of Slytherin House. All of his family members, his cousins in current attendance included, had all been in the House of Salazar Slytherin. All of them had understood the importance of resourcefulness and ambition, the cunning nature necessary when protecting their ancient blood from the lesser magical families. By allowing Sirius to remain in Gryffindor, she was terrified that he might turn into a Blood- Traitor, and that was something unacceptable for the heir of such a noble house. However, her efforts had been fruitless, and Sirius remained in Gryffindor, much to the disdain of both his mother and father. His younger brother, Regulus Black, had managed in procuring all of the expectations of their supremacist parents, thus allowing Sirius more freedom. It was no secret that he had let them down, become something of a disappointment, though he could hardly say that it bothered him much. It was by their sixth year that Sirius had ran away from the place of his upbringing and mostly unhappy youth, instead moving into the home that James shared with his parents. It had been there, that Remus could remember visiting the two of them a handful of occasions throughout their youth, and some in the later years, prior to James’ marriage to Lily. Fleamont and Euphemia had been understanding and generous people- Far older than most of their peers’ parents, though nothing like the Black family. It had only been at that point when Remus truly saw a change occur in his friend. Perhaps stability and care had the positive effect that many might take for granted- But Sirius finally seemed to grow up a bit and actually attempt to care about his studies and future. James and Sirius had always been closer than the rest of them- Like brothers. Guilt was an unmistakable emotion, when Remus considered the dark and devastating news that he needed to tell Sirius. How would he phrase it? And more importantly, how would Padfoot take it? They didn’t know anything for certain yet, and James deserved his chance at an explanation… They owed him that much for the friendship they had shared throughout the years. Prior to his parents’ deaths, Sirius had inherited a large sum of money from his Uncle Alphard, enough to sustain him comfortably for the majority of his adult life. It had been the final straw for Walburga, and in her own rage at the consideration of her brother, she had gone into quite the state. She had disinherited her eldest son long before this recent transgression, making certain that everything would be left to Regulus instead. Unfortunately, with the untimely disappearance, and presumed death of the youngest heir of Black, her scheming ended up in vain. She had died bitter and full of hate- Screaming her rantings of Pure-blood ideals until she finally drew her last breath. It had been then that Sirius had finally returned home to 12 Grimmauld Place, though it had hardly ever been considered much of a ‘home’ to him in feel. Remus’ wandering thoughts retreated with the long high-pitched squeak of the front door upon its hinges. Looking down, he had found himself greeted by the withered and heavily wrinkled face of an elderly House Elf- One seemingly older than even Albus Dumbledore by a good hundred years. It spoke not a word in greeting to the sandy-haired man, though turned and began leading the way into the bowels of the house with a familiar tread. The door shut magically behind Remus, a little hard in its force, and he blinked rapidly so that his eyes might adjust to the dimness of the interior. The House Elf lingered at the end of the hallway, its feet bare, shifting slightly from side-to-side in impatience. Clearing his throat uncomfortably, Remus lengthened his stride and caught up quickly. “Mistress Walburga would roll over in her grave, she would…” the House Elf murmured under its breath as it continued in leading the unexpected visitor, “Muggles, Blood-traitors, and now mongrel filth in her house- She’d expect no less from that disappointment of a son… No less! Broke Mistress’ heart he did.” Just as Remus was fighting the growing desire to punt the House Elf across the room, they seemingly reached their destination- A small sitting room in the back corner of the house. Sirius was very much alone, his usual handsome self, dressed in black pants and equally dark shirt, with a billowing robe of blood red and black crushed velvet with gold embroidery. His dark hair was pulled back into a loose ponytail, and he smiled at the unexpected appearance of an old friend. “Master’s despicable guest- “ “Leave us, Kreacher.” He didn’t have to ask twice, with a ‘pop’ the wrinkled and ancient being vanished from sight, leaving the two men very much alone. “Moony, I hadn’t expected you…” Sirius continued, taking a step closer and shaking his friend’s hand approvingly, “Apologies about my lack of finesse, and that deplorable House Elf… I’d dismiss him if I could be assured of his loyalty. Unfortunately, you can see my predicament.” He shrugged, “Seems to take after you Mum.” “Yes,” Sirius agreed with a grimness, “Same frightening ideology that everything and everyone not born within the Sacred Twenty-Eight deserves to be abandoned on a hillside and left to the elements. Come, have a seat.” The two men retired to two plush chairs framed by a heartily crackling fire, warming themselves in a comfortable silence. “If I have interrupted you, I apologize.” “Not at all, Moony.” “Have you seen Prongs recently?” Furrowing his brow, “Why do you ask?” “It’s been some time now since the night of All Hallow’s Eve,” Remus began carefully, staring into the licking flames of the fire between them, “I haven’t seen much of either of you…” Sirius straightened in his armchair, licking his lips in thought, “Yes, well… It’s been quite eye-opening for all of us, I’m afraid.” He sighed, clearly lost in some thought or memory, “I don’t think any of us quite expected something so damned terrible to happen. Wormtail’s betrayal has shaken Prongs… Unlike anything I’ve ever witnessed before. I think it succeeded in frightening all of us- Or at least planting a rage that calls for retribution.” “He was always a follower.” “A bloody idiot, that’s for certain,” he grumbled, shaking his head sadly a moment later, “I just can’t understand why Prongs picked him to keep them safe over you or I.” Because he was a Death Eater? Remus shook the sudden thought from his mind, trying to stay on track with everything that had happened. Attempting to keep a calmness present and hold his inner wolf at bay. “He’s been staying here since everything happened,” Sirius continued, “Went out for a stroll today, haven’t seen him for a few hours, though I’m sure he’ll be back soon; been through a lot. I can’t blame him for his grief and anger… I can only imagine how something like that must feel. And you know as well as I do, how much James loved Lily.” “Enough to do anything for her,” Remus heard himself say, “To kill anyone that might somehow prove and obstacle, or step in his way.” Sirius cocked his head to one side, eyebrows knitted together in confusion, “What?” “There have been some developments…” “Moony, you always were arguably the smartest of the Marauders,” he began, “But what exactly are you playing at? We all were there! All of us except that fucking rat… You saw as well as I did what happened.” Remus interlaced his fingers, trying to formulate the best means to continue, “Yes, but there’s something rather unexpected that’s proven an important development.” Throwing his hands up, Sirius couldn’t help but also roll his eyes. “Did you know that James and Lily were divorced?” “I had felt something like that might be the case, though it was never explicitly mentioned,” he said at once, recalling the fateful day that he had attempted to pull James from his sorrow, “You know how he is… And he’s always cared for her more than anything or anyone else in the bloody universe. I suppose that’s why he’s taken all of this so hard- Knowing he’ll never get a second chance to right things with her.” “She’s alive.” One could have heard a pin drop from the silence that suddenly filled the space. Though he had attempted to retain an emotionless façade when hearing such startling news, Sirius Black had found himself rising to his feet, eyes widening as he stared at his longtime friend. “Lily lived through her encounter in Godric’s Hollow, though she did not emerge completely unscathed from her ordeal. In all reality, it was a miracle that she survived.” “Are you certain?” his question came out as a whisper. Nodding, “I have seen her myself.” He ran his fingers through his hair, momentarily lost in thought, uncertain of how to proceed with such unexpected information, “How?” “I warn you, Padfoot, this will not be easy for you to hear.” The seriousness of Remus’ tone had the already shocked man dreading what was to follow. He paced the room a few times, clenching his jaw and biting his lower lip in thought. When he had at last thought himself the most prepared and ready to hear what it was that needed to be said- How Lily had somehow emerged alive from the wreckage that had seemed impossible to survive from an ordeal that had ended with four Death Eaters and two members of the Order dead. “Severus Snape saved her.” “What?!” “He fought off the Death Eaters and saved her.” Lighting a cigarette, “A Death Eater killing Death Eaters? Come on, Remus…” “She’s with him now,” he pressed, “Mate, they’re together. They have been for a long time.” Sirius closed his eyes and pressed his fingers into his forehead with a hard pressure, “James will just love hearing about Lily and Snivellus…” “Set aside your memories for one second, and hear me out,” Remus growled, “I’m serious, Padfoot! Dumbledore has sent me here to speak with you on the matter, and you need to hear what I have to say. Lily and Severus have been together for over a year… During that time, Severus defected from the Dark Lord’s numbers, and has been passing information to us within the Order. He’s the mole! The source of the details and plans that we’ve been receiving! It explains everything! And Lily has concealed it from everyone this entire time. Frank and Alice knew the truth, as well as Dumbledore, but it was intended to remain a secret until the right moment had arisen to reveal Severus’ identity.” “Great,” he muttered, “And I'm the one who tried to get him killed all those years ago when I sent him after you and beneath that fucking tree.” “Regardless of your like or dislike for one another, he deserves credit for his labors,” Remus responded, “I have spoken with him, I have seen the changes within him firsthand. And you can bet that Lily wouldn’t have sought him out, wanted to spend her life with someone that she felt had remained faithful to all that You-Know-Who preaches.” “Or was it to just get back at Prongs?” Remus frowned, “I think you owe Lily far more credit than that. And keep in mind that the two of them had grown up together; their friendship has always had deep roots, and to withdraw them completely would almost be like a fish breathing out of water.” He paused, “There’s something incredibly powerful in their love and respect for one another, which I have witnessed first-hand. They have been through so much together, and yet all they want is for a chance at life and happiness together when all of this madness is done.” “What about Prongs?” “Lily survived torture at the hands of some of the most depraved individuals aligned with the Dark Lord. They murdered Frank in front of her and Alice, and then tried all they could to learn as many secrets as possible- None of them revealed, especially not the location of Neville Longbottom. Bellatrix Lestrange knews no bounds when it came to her evil.” “She was my cousin,” Sirius spat, “Don’t you think I know that?! James would never do anything the likes of which she has! There’s no bitch alive or dead as much a cunt as that monster!” “And yet she told Lily that it had been James’ idea to keep her alive- Something Wormtail had been precise about in his deception of the location of their cottage,” Remus stood and went to his friend, a hand firmly placed upon the other man’s shoulder, “James wanted Lily alive, but at a price.” “What fucking price?!” “Lily was pregnant.” The words brought about a softness in Sirius Black’s eyes, and an understanding that was bitter; nearly impossible to swallow. “Padfoot, he knew. And he wanted Lily back…” “So my cousin acted on the information,” he surmised, shaking his head and outing his cigarette with more force than necessary in the nearly overflowing ashtray, “He did it all for himself- FOR HIS STUPID FUCKING SELF!” Remus backed away, eyes falling to his feet, “It would seem that way.” No more words were spoken between them, and Remus continued to stand very still while Sirius Black proceeded to vent his anger- His rage at the news which had been brought to him. Betrayal. His best friend. And for what end? A woman? Was it worth it? Sirius was consumed by his emotions, a numbness slowly rolling over him as he threw and shattered priceless heirlooms long held in esteem that belonged to his family. Damn it all, in the end it would be worthless rubbish just like everything else. As much as he wished that Remus would leave and allow him his grief, his bitter rage at the deceptions which had plagued them both, he was also thankful for the quiet and oddly calming presence. They had to do something, they had to find the answers to the questions that were echoing painfully within the confines of their minds. James had not run like Peter, and both knew that he would likely be back by nightfall. Chapter End Notes In the canon, Sirius Black's mother, Walburga, died in 1985... Obviously I have taken liberties with that date for the purpose of having 12 Grimmauld Place used in this story. I changed my mind about the song that I originally posted, and have updated it to a different one, though by the same band. I feel as though this one better fits with the stresses and anguish that Remus and Sirius might feel. Song: Soldier_Side_-_System_of_a_Down ***** Marauders: Part III ***** Chapter Summary The once leader of the infamous 'Marauders' tells his tale. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “Shut your eyes and see.” -James Joyce [memory] James Potter had not been a planned child. All throughout his youth, he had always been the one with the oldest parents- Parents arguably of a similar age to his peers’ grandparents. They had long suspected themselves incapable of bearing children, a fact attributed with two early miscarriages and a tragic stillbirth. Their only surviving child’s conception had been nothing short of shocking, at a time no less than twenty years past their final true attempt. Pure-bloods themselves, Fleamont and Euphemia Potter had doted upon their only child, allowing him every luxury and wish. Little James had been undeniably spoiled and cherished- He could do no wrong in the eyes of his parents. Even after he had begun his magical education at Hogwarts, the Potter’s couldn’t stop their pride for their son. The full extent of his mischief over those formidable years, as well as his strong friendship with three other Gryffindor boys, was something neither adult would ever know all the details surrounding. All they had ever surmised was that their son was popular amongst his peers, gifted at Quidditch, and intelligent enough to receive adequate marks in his classes of interest. They had never much spoke about the bequeathed Cloak of Invisibility- A family heirloom long cherished through countless generations on the paternal side of the family. Whatever disruptions associated with its use, no doubt attributed to the common belief of ‘boys being boys.’ James had befriended Sirius Black first. Something in the charismatic rebel had intrigued him from the start, and they had become fast friends. Compared to Remus Lupin and Peter Pettigrew, the two of them had forged something akin to a brotherhood- Their friendship always a touch stronger and more intricately laced than the others. Yet they all held their individual strengths when it came to forming the gang that came to be known as the ‘Marauders.’ Wormtail had always brought a certain element of comic relief, where Moony was often the voice of mature adult reasoning- Being a Prefect had brought him a certain air of necessary seriousness when it had come to their gallivanting about the castle and sprawling grounds in their later years at the magical institution. But Prongs and Padfoot had always retained a certain element of childish immaturity when it came to their cockiness and popularity. From the very first day upon the Hogwarts Express, James had come face-to-face with the most beautiful girl he had ever seen- Lily Evans. Even from this immature age, still clinging to the childish thoughts that girls were nothing worth his time, obsessed with dolls and pastel colors, frilly dresses, and something he would never understand- He had been intrigued. From her shockingly auburn hair that fell to her waist in gentle curls, to her almond-shaped emerald green eyes, and the light dusting of freckles on her shapely nose… He had not known it, or understood it immediately, but she had been beautiful. Even when she had stormed out of the compartment with that slimy friend of hers, he had felt an odd pang of something remotely resembling sorrow at seeing her go. He had been given another chance when she had been sorted into Gryffindor House. Initially he had given her space- She was a girl after all, and not the usual thing he was accustomed to worrying about. What had annoyed him though, was the way she seemed determined to avoid him, and how despite unspoken protocol, she seemed intent on remaining friends with that Slytherin freak she had associated with upon the train. “It’s just odd,” he had told Sirius one afternoon, shaking his head. “What do you mean?” “That,” he had said pointedly, motioning towards Lily and Severus studying in quiet contentment. “Fancy the Muggle-born, do you?” He had scoffed, “Hardly. But not because of that- Just, it’s freakish a Gryffindor spending time with a Slytherin… It goes against House ideals! We’re supposed to be rivals, aren’t we?” Sirius shrugged, “What if I had been in Slytherin?” “That’s different,” James had said quickly, “And you’re not; that’s the more important point… But he is, and she isn’t.” Though he would never be able to recollect the precise moment he had known he fancied her, it wasn’t long after that fateful conversation with his best friend, that James had set forth on a path of tearing the pair apart. It was unnatural, of that he was certain. Besides that, he couldn’t understand why the pretty redhead didn’t want to sit and study with him like she did with Snivellus- Such a fitting nickname to truly convey how filthy her Slytherin companion truly was. It had begun small at first, little shoulder-checks and accidental tripping or jinxes between classes, though had grown into something of a well-known feud over their seven years of shared education. Fortunately for James, he was the popular one, with agreeable looks and charm- He had even taken to wearing his hair in something reminiscent of the windswept aftermath that was a common occurrence from Quidditch practices or matches. Still, Lily had turned from him. “She’ll come around, mate.” “Padfoot, I’m not sure what more I can do to convince her,” he had admitted late one evening with a sigh. “What if I take care of Snivellus?” “How do you figure you’ll manage that feat?” “It’s not like brains are everything,” he chuckled, “I have an idea of something that might peak his interest.” “He’ll never buy it coming from you.” “We’ll see,” Sirius winked, “I have a reputation for being very charming, though I must admit that it usually is best when worked upon the ladies…” “She hates me…” “Come on, mate!” he had exclaimed, “Evans will come around… You’re everything Snivellus isn’t, and that’s enough for most. You’ve got the looks, you’re bloody hilarious, and you care for her… Tell her! Grow some bollocks and tell her!” “She’d just reject me.” “Then let me take care of the slime ball…!” “I fucking hate him…” “Perfect,” Sirius nodded, “Consider it done; you’ll be losing your virginity by the end of the year.” James had rolled his eyes, “Yeah, right.” If he had known that Sirius had intended to lure the Slytherin past the secret entrance beneath the Whomping Willow, he would have stopped his best friend at that very moment. Though Sirius’ intentions had certainly been in his best interests, James could have done without the beating from the damned tree, as well as the confrontation that had occurred in the earthen tunnel that led to the Shrieking Shack and the already transformed Remus Lupin concealed within. It had been more the desire to protect Sirius from expulsion, as well as more stigma associated with werewolves which had led to James racing to Severus’ aid. He cared not a lick if Remus had mauled him to death, or bitten him. It had been to save his own neck by association, and those of his closest friends as well. In the end Sirius, Severus, and himself had earned months of detention as punishment for their admitted stupidity- And the Slytherin had been sworn to necessary silence in regards to Moony’s condition. It had not helped his standing with Lily in the slightest, though none of them had spoken about the events of that fateful night as a matter of principle. At a certain point, he had admittedly reached a point of desperation, caring not about how he might look in his attempt to gain the affections of the girl who had haunted his dreams. He wanted her- Longed to hold her, kiss her, whisper secrets in the shell of her ear, and hear her laughter. He wanted to be the reason for her happiness, and why she smiled. His urges were carnal as well, and he ached for her in moments of quiet thought as he would covertly watch her scribble away in a corner of the Gryffindor Tower late at night. Unbeknownst to his mates, or the others that often surrounded them, he had come to memorize her features. The voluminous bounce of her curls, the glitter within her eyes, the curve of her bosom and slimness of her waist- The way she had a tendency to bite her lower lip when in thought, and occasionally smudge the ink from her quill upon her cheek when consumed by her studies. She was gorgeous, and kind- Soft spoken, though infectious with her laughter and care for others. In so many ways she was his polar opposite, and yet she had completely bewitched him beyond his own understanding. “Why won’t you go out with James?” Remus had asked her on one occasion, after having been repeatedly badgered by his friend, and guilt-tripped because of his shared status as Prefect. “I don’t see how that’s any of your business,” Lily had replied, though not unkindly. Lowering his voice, “He begged that I ask you…” She had sighed, “Because he’s awful! Goodness… He won’t let up! Remus, it’s become nothing short of bothersome and irritating. It seems as though every moment I finally have a moment of solace from his advances, he suddenly appears and then they start all over again. He’s ghastly, appalling, and repulsive- Especially in how he treats others!” “He’s not all bad- “ She had laughed, the sound both bitter and full of contempt, “You try having him follow you all day long and beg you for a date.” “Maybe you should just let him?” “Merlin’s beard, don’t tell me you really believe that will help-?! I know he’s put you up to this.” “You’re right,” he smiled, “Honestly, I could care less… But why continue hanging around Snape? You’ve heard the rumors about those bastards he hangs around, I’m sure.” “Severus is everything James is not,” Lily had replied, “James will never be able to understand our friendship, because all he desires is me. Severus knows my mind, as well as my…” She had paused, wanting to say ‘heart,’ though knowing that despite her trust in her fellow Prefect, that he would undoubtedly deliver her exact words of explanation to the very person she sought to be rid of completely. Besides that, her relationship with Severus had never developed beyond the bounds of platonic friendship, not matter how much she had secretly longed for something more. She wished that she could know his feelings, understand what it was that he felt for her. And yet, Remus had touched upon one of the very factors that had recently left her even more in question as to where she stood in her oldest friend’s life. “Lily?” “Hmm…?” “What else does he know? You trailed off…” She blushed, eyes falling momentarily to her feet as she attempted to collect her thoughts, “We’ve been friends since we were nine,” she began, “That’s a long time… We grew up together, and then we came here together as well. Though we might not share the same background, or the same House, we have a bond that’s hard to break. James can’t seem to understand that- Not that Sirius or Peter help much.” “Peter’s a blundering fool.” Lily had stifled a laugh, eyes meeting his once more, “True.” When Remus had relayed the conversation to James later that same evening, he had been surprised at the calmness that the head Marauder had demonstrated at hearing the news. But then again, James was not one to normally vent all of his innermost contemplations with the Prefect belonging to their little group. No, he had waited for Sirius- The closest thing to a brother he would ever know. “What do you think she didn’t tell Moony?” Sirius had shrugged, “I have no idea, mate.” “Do you think he’s fucked her? Do you think that disgusting, filthy bastard has touched her?” “So what if he has?” Sirius had responded, “It’s none of your business what they’ve been up to… You can’t admit it would shock you, if that was your go-to thought. But mate, you need to think about it, think about what you know about Lily from all of the years we’ve known her. She’s no stranger to any of us, and I think you owe her more than that. She’s always been protective of Snivellus, and it’s really no wonder when you actually look at him…” “I just don’t understand what she sees in him!” Sirius had clapped a hand gently on his best friend’s back, “Then I suggest we make a reason for her take better notice of you.” Despite Sirius’ suggestion, James had only grown further disgusted with Lily’s longest friend after learning what Remus had shared. His open dislike had turned into more and more obvious torment from that moment on, their interactions becoming increasingly heated and violent. Though Sirius had been adamant that the route to Lily’s heart was through a change in demeanor, he had been unable to control the antics that his best friends seemed determined in proceeding with; that also went for participation on his part. If James was bound to receive detention for his aggressions and cockiness, Sirius was determined to be at his side every step of the way. All of this had eventually culminated in the event that would forever change all of their lives- A moment one summer day, where Severus finally lost both his composure, and Lily, in a moment of unbridled rage… Until their fateful reunion in late November of 1979. When he had first held her in his arms and kissed her, James had felt as though the world had suddenly stopped spinning. Somehow it had seemed that she felt perfectly within his arms, against his body, her head resting in the crook of his neck. Lily was everything that he had dreamed she might be, and he had known that his life would never again be right without her in it. He had proposed to her shortly after they had completed their education at Hogwarts, the two of them traveling to share the news with both of their families, before planning the big day. When she had emerged from the French doors of her parents’ home on that momentous occasion, James Potter had felt his heart momentarily stop at the sight of her- His bride. She had been a vision in her flowing white gown of lace and tulle. When her father had pressed her hand into his at the altar, James had not been able to retrain himself from the emotions that he felt, the sting of tears pressing his eyes. She had beamed at him as though he were the only man on Earth, the only man who would ever matter to her for the remainder of their lives. How wrong he had been. Sirius had tried to tell him that he must win her back after she had long walked out on him and everything that they had built together- Her words still echoing painfully in his mind, tormenting him at every turn. I made myself believe that if I tried hard enough that I could convince myself that I actually loved you and that being with you was what I wanted. I can’t pretend anymore. If that hadn’t been enough, Dumbledore had been equally determined. He had been thoroughly shocked when his former Headmaster, and the leader of the Order of the Phoenix had told him that Lily needed to come home. He hadn’t believed him, he refused to believe that it was anything other than cruel wishing on his own part. And yet, the aged wizard had been adamant. Looking back, however, there had been hints as to the truth even then. He felt such a damned idiot; a cuckolded fool. Just as he had long suspected, Lily had run back into the arms of that fucking filthy Slytherin bastard. It had been enraging beyond normal comprehension, and he had found himself blinded by the emotion upon piecing together the elements of her hidden love affair. The pregnancy test and the cryptic letters from a lover. Did she think him that big of a fool? So weak and desperately in love with her that he would not be able to understand that she was using him? That they had all used him. He had wondered if in some absurd twist of fate, they were all sitting together at that very moment- Lily, Sirius, Dumbledore, and fucking Snivellus… All of them having a jolly laugh at his expense. Fuck them all. Fuck. Them. All. On one of his previous meetings with Wormtail, James had been almost certain that he had witnessed something not intended by his old friend. When he had arrived at their pre-discussed location, he had seen Peter Pettigrew in the later part of conversation amidst the shadows with a hooded, and much taller figure. It had been something quite curious to be certain, and James had not wished to be found out in his observations, quickly concealing himself with the Cloak of Invisibility- Something he had recently come to carry with him under all circumstances, given the rise in violence perpetuated from Voldemort’s army and staggering growth in numbers. One could never be too careful. Years of wielding the family heirloom had garnered him a certain level of adeptness when it came to utilizing the object, and he was able to creep within almost alarming proximity to the discussion that was taking place. “… He seeks a report, and soon. You cannot think it wise to delay much longer.” “B- B- But, I have not yet gained access to the information which the Dark Lord seeks!” Peter had stuttered, his beady eyes darting about in both anxiety and disquiet. “Then you best hurry your efforts, for he has never been a patient man,” the cloaked taller man continued, turning just slightly so that his silvery-blonde hair became visible in the dim light of the alley- Lucius Malfoy. “I will try…” “You must do better than that, or you are worthless to us,” Lucius spat, “Without protection from the Death Eaters, who will protect you when your disloyalty to the Order is eventually something of common knowledge?” Peter had looked as though he had been about to cry. A low chuckle emanated from the taller man, “You must really be a fool, if you did not weigh such outcomes in advance.” “I- I- I just need a bit more time.” “A valuable commodity.” “Please!” Lucius had let out an annoyed sigh, and rolled his eyes at the pleas from Peter, “A week more. That is all I can offer you. I will not put my position as a lieutenant at risk for a bumbling idiot such as yourself, if you cannot prove to deliver on the things which you have promised. If you fail, then that will be your business with the Dark Lord, and I will have no other option than to bring you to him and walk away without a second glance in your pitiful direction. Do you understand me?” Peter Pettigrew had nodded in solemn understanding, and without a word more, the known conspirator and proven Death Eater had Aparated from sight. James had been stunned by the information, shocked that the least formidable member of his Marauders had been the one who had possessed the bollocks to actually defect to the opposing side. A spy! It was something he had never thought possible, and quietly wondered just how long he had been passing information along to Voldemort and his supporters. In the moments which had passed since Lucius Malfoy’s departure, Wormtail had leaned against the dirty brick wall, wiping his face with a filthy handkerchief and catching his breath. It had been in that moment that James had swung off his cloak and brought his hand around the fat neck of his friend, slamming the flabby body against that same wall with more force than necessary, his wand drawn and pressed to the thinning hair at his temple. Peter had squeaked his surprise, his eyes widening in terror, “P- P- Prongs?” “You bastard… You motherfucking bastard.” “Wait! P- P- Please, P- P- Prongs! Wait!” “Tell me why I shouldn’t bloody kill you right this instant?!” “How m- m- much did you hear?” “Enough to know your betrayal, you piece of shite!” he roared, “How long?!” Pettigrew remained defiantly silent. “HOW BLOODY LONG?!” “It doesn’t matter…” he said quietly, eyes meeting those of his friend, “W- W- What are you going to do?” “Have you told them about Lily?” When his answer was not immediate, James slammed him once more against the wall, “Fucking answer me, Wormtail!” “In a way… I- I- I have told them that I know where she is. That I am the Secret Keeper for her location… But they want Frank and Alice too.” James was seething, though suddenly an idea popped into his mind, something that despite its depravity, somehow seemed to make sense. Was it so twisted that he sought some relief? Some compensation from the pain that everyone had seemed so willing to allow him to suffer? What was Peter’s change in allegiances compared to the lies he had suffered from so many others? He could never betray Sirius or Remus, never betray the Order and what it was that they stood for. If there was one thing he knew, it was that Voldemort was a usurper, a powerful and charismatic leader who desired nothing more than to be the most significant name in history when it came to the movement that he had inspired. James Potter would never agree with switching sides, with throwing away what he knew was right… And killing or enslaving anyone that wasn’t a Pure-blood was something that he would never be able to support. Madness had a means persuading him to do the unthinkable… His rage and hurt so influential that he couldn’t help but listen to that tiny idea that was lurking with in his mind. “Will they kill them?” “I- I- I don’t know.” “Would they consider keeping Lily alive if they were to get whatever information that they seek?” Peter narrowed his eyes in confusion, “Perhaps…” “I can convince Lily to invite Frank and Alice to the house,” he told him, “But you must do something for me in return, Wormtail.” “Anything!” “I will not reveal your deception, but you in turn, must never speak of mine. I will assist you this once, and only this once… After which, you will be dead to me. Do not think I am merely speaking the words either- I will kill you if I ever see you again; if I ever come face-to-face with treacherous scum such as yourself.” He nodded, his jowls flapping, eyes darting about frantically, mouth slightly agape. “You must insist that they keep Lily alive, though I would not object to them causing an unfortunate accident, so long as she survived such an ordeal…” Peter’s expression was one of renewed confusion. “She’s pregnant,” James spat, the words leaving a bitter taste upon his tongue, “I merely suggest that they take care of the unfortunate situation.” “P- P- Prongs?” “It’s not mine you fucking half-wit!” he said with disdain, once again violently slamming the shorter man into the wall, pressing his wand a little more forcefully into his head, “It’s my only hope of having her return to my arms!” “How?!” “Merlin’s fucking beard!” he said, looking about incredulously, “Don’t you fret about my business! I’ll see to it- So long as you see to your end of the goddamn bargain. Do we have a deal, or not?” Swallowing hard, Peter extended his right hand towards his friend, fingertips quivering slightly with nervousness. James’ grasp was hard and firm, the tight grip causing the weaker man to flinch. “Now off to your Master, you rat!” James growled, “I’ll let you know when a date and time have been set.” Chapter End Notes It is my intention to show Sirius Black as not a monster. Though his past actions towards Sev are despicable, I have attempted to show his reasoning behind those as a means of helping (in a twisted sense), the one person who had been the closest thing to family that he had left. It is not an excuse, mind you! Though clearly Sirius has witnessed the horrible revelation, within the past chapter, that James transformed into something akin to those he had long wished to disassociate himself with- The kind of viciousness that was comparable to his dreaded cousin, Bellatrix Lestrange. Though (unfortunately) utilized for her wedding to James, the wedding dress as described, is mine. XD (Not the exact dress, but extremely close, and bouquet too). [dress] The next chapter is the big one. Hopefully everyone now understands a little better as to why I broke these chapters up in this manner... As I warned, the length would've been crazy. Thanks for reading! XO Song: Hurt_-_Nine_Inch_Nails ***** Marauders: Part IV ***** Chapter Summary James finds himself face-to-face with the last person he expects. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “A mother’s love for her child is like nothing else in the world. It knows no law, no pity. It dares all things and crushes down remorselessly all that stands in its path.” -Agatha Christie [reach] When James had returned to 12 Grimmauld Place, darkness had settled over London. He had been busy with his assignments for the Order- Tasks that he had no way of knowing had been fabrications created by Albus Dumbledore. After having heard Lily’s account of the horrific encounter on All Hallow’s Eve, the aged wizard had made it a point of utmost necessity to remove James from all priority missions. Until he had been ruled innocent, there could be no possible risk or fear of further betrayal. Remarkably, James Potter had not seemed to notice the changes in those surrounding him; seemingly content with both the Order, and his living arrangements with longtime friend, Sirius Black. Once safely inside the ancestral home of the House of Black, James removed his cloak and straightened his glasses. Though he was acutely aware that things would never be the same, an odd sense of peace had slowly come over him. In his own way, James had grown to consider himself a widower- Mourning the loss of his one true love. Nobody need understand the complexity of his and Lily’s relationship, the unspoken truth about their actual divorce and separation. Fortunately, those who knew the truth of it were very few and far between- Most colleagues and acquaintances freely expressing their genuine condolences, and offering their assistance in whatever ways he might need it. He had accepted their generosity, his deception having partially fooled even himself with how easy it had become to play the part. Still he ached for her in moments of privacy, rarely offering a glimpse to those he held in closest company. He could still recollect almost every detail of her in perfect clarity- Fiery auburn hair, soft skin the color of cream, glittering green eyes, and rosy pink lips. She was perfection- The only woman he knew he would ever love. The memory of her kiss, and the way she could make him feel with just one sidelong glance, was enough to still bring an uncomfortable tightness to his chest. Making love to her had been exquisite, something comparable to a transcendence of both time and space. There had only ever been the two of them- It was all he had ever needed. But it hadn’t been enough for Lily. At his entrance, Kreacher had been nowhere in sight. It was somewhat strange, though not alarming by any means. James made his way with confident familiarity towards the back sitting room on the main floor; a room Sirius had recently taken a liking to, and often resided in throughout the day. As he rounded the corner and entered the room, he found himself faced with a surprise. “Moony!” he exclaimed, smiling widely, “I had no idea you were stopping by! It’s good to see you, mate.” Remus nodded, though spoke not a word, his lips pressed firmly into a very thin and straight line. Beside him, Sirius Black appeared with much the same expression upon his own face, though his dark eyes shone with something foreign, the likes of which had rarely been seen or leveled at him in particular. Malice. James cocked his head slightly to one side in confusion, his brow furrowed as he pondered his two oldest friends. “I think we need to have a little chat,” Remus managed, breaking the growing uncomfortable silence that had fallen between the three men. “Sure…” James nodded, eyes focused upon Sirius and his continued silence, “What about?” “Have a seat.” Crossing the room, James sat in one of the high-backed armchairs, waiting for them to continue, and wondering what had brought on such an unexpected note of seriousness from these two men who knew him better than all others- Two men he thought of as the closest thing to family that he had left. “There have been some unsettling allegations brought to light recently…” Remus continued, “Allegations that require an explanation.” “In what sense?” James questioned, “Against whom?” “Enough with the bloody act!” Sirius finally shouted, his anger spilling out, “Against you, Prongs!” “Well, I’m sure that they’re unfounded!” James replied, eyes widening some, “In what way? What have I supposedly done?” “You led us to believe that you knew nothing of the planned assault upon your home in Godric’s Hollow,” Remus began calmly. “I didn’t!” “Prongs, Frank and Alice died! The Death Eater’s fucking tortured them- Murdered them in your fucking house!” Sirius seethed. “It was Wormtail!” James spat, his anger flaring as well, “He was the Secret Keeper! He betrayed us!” “And how would he have known precisely when Frank and Alice would be there, and conveniently, when you would be absent?” Remus asked. “I don’t know!” Sirius slammed his hands down upon the arms of the chair where James Potter sat. Bending at the waist, he leveled himself with his best friend. There was no warmth in his stare when he met his eyes, no display of friendship, or humorous remark upon the tip of his tongue. “Padfoot, you have to believe me…” “Neville Longbottom is an orphan because of the evil that occurred within your home on All Hallow’s Eve… Do you feel no remorse for your actions? For your damned stupidity?” “Fuck you!” James seethed, his rage finally boiling over, “Fuck the both of you! Do you not think that I suffer with the knowledge of what happened that damned night?! Knowing that while unspeakable acts occurred under my very roof, that I was out having a merry old time with the both of you? I was with you. If anyone should trust me- Defend me, it’s you! If I had known anything about Wormtail’s treachery, I would have dropped everything and headed back there at once,” he looked pleadingly from one friend to the other, “Perhaps Frank and I could have taken them… Maybe I could have saved them… Saved her,” he coughed on genuine emotion before continuing, his voice cracking and very low, “Do you not think that I would have done anything to save her? I live with the pain of Lily’s death every day, and knowing that there wasn’t a goddamned thing that I ever could have done to save her.” “That’s just the thing, mate…” Remus sighed. “I did save her,” a voice interjected, low and icy in its drawl, and unmistakably familiar. Sirius rose from his position over his closest friend, and stepped aside, revealing a shadowy figure in the doorway. Taking a few steps into the room, one could make out his shoulder-length jet-black hair tied back, the shadow of a beard upon his face, his dark eyes illuminated by the firelight. Severus Snape. His usual billowing robes had been replaced with black pants and a matching black dress shirt, the sleeves rolled up to the elbows. The intricate black lines of his Dark Mark were plainly visible upon the pale flesh at the inside of his left arm. “Snivellus…?” “Show some respect in my house!” Sirius spat, glaring at James. “Respect? Respect?! You allow that greasy fucking Death Eater into your house and ask me to fucking respect him?!” “He deserves much more than just our respect, James,” Remus replied calmly. The laugh which sprung forth from the head Marauder was full of bitterness and sounded hollow. “Is something funny to you?” Severus questioned, remaining at a calculated distance. “Fuck you, liar!” Sirius made to retort his oldest friend, though Severus waved a hand casually in a gesture that symbolized a lack of care, “How am I a liar?” “To claim that you saved her!” he shouted, eyes wild, and spittle flying from his mouth, “There was too much blood- Too much gore remaining…! No one could have survived,” he coughed, teeth bared in dislike, “You may have fucked her Snivellus, but it was I who loved her.” “Loved her enough to murder people you called your friends?” Severus replied in question, his voice icy, “Loved her enough to orphan a child- Rob him of his parents? Loved her enough to make a deal with the devil?” “As though you have any right to accuse me, Death Eater!” “You sold her to those who you vowed to despise,” he continued, “Sold the life of her unborn child to pure evil just to keep and preserve her for yourself- That’s hardly love.” “It should have been mine!” “James- “ Remus tried. “Damn you all!” he rounded on them “It should have been mine…” “Listen to yourself, mate!” Sirius exclaimed, shaking him, “This isn’t you! What were you thinking?! Do you realize what you’ve done?!” “It doesn’t matter now… Nothing will bring her back.” “James…” The sudden sound of a feminine voice caused everyone in the room to turn around and the head Marauder’s jaw to fall open in utter shock. “Lily…” Severus said quietly, going to her at once, his hands gently closing around her arms. “I’m fine,” she assured him, noting the concern in both his voice and eyes. “How-? What-?” James stammered. “Severus surprised all of us,” Remus stated, “He learned of the encounter just in time to save Lily.” “And almost Alice,” Lily added sadly. “But…” “The wreckage as you all discovered it as a necessary diversion of sorts,” Severus offered. Lily stepped forward, cautiously approaching the chair in which her ex-husband sat, “Why? Why did you do it, James?” “I- I don’t… I have no idea what you- “ “What she means?” Sirius frowned, his interruption causing his best friend to cringe, “Don’t insult her intelligence, mate.” “But, I- “ Severus leaned in close, “Choose your answers wisely, for they may be your last… If you think for one second that I’ll allow you to pretend your innocent in front of her… Well, I assure you that will not hesitate to kill you right where you sit. Not even your friends will be able to protect you, or save you from my wrath.” Stepping from her place before her ex-husband, Lily turned and placed her hands gently upon Severus’ face. “I won’t let him lie to you…” he told her quietly, “Not after all that you’ve been through; all that you’ve lost…” James rolled his eyes and Sirius punched him hard in the shoulder. “You’d do well to learn some tact, James…” Remus sighed, shaking his head. “So what now?” James asked, eyes lowered to his feet. “You can’t even answer her question?” Sirius growled. “What does it matter…?” he mumbled, “I’ve lost, and Snivellus has won.” “That’s just the thing, James,” Lily sighed, his eyes lifting to meet hers, “I was never a trophy to be won. I was never an object meant for you and you alone… If you had truly loved me, as you claim that you still do, you would have understood that. You would have loved me enough to see me happy, and to let me go.” “So what now?” “I give you my forgiveness,” she told him, squeezing Severus’ hand all the while, “But know that I never want to see you again. I never will think about you, or speak your name again so long as I live… The only reason I even give you my forgiveness, is because I will not taint the rest of my life with the hatred that threatens me at every moment for what you have done. You are not worthy of me- Of the Order- Of Sirius and Remus… Of anyone. You will be forgotten, and you must find forgiveness within yourself for the unthinkable atrocities that you have helped bring about.” “And you’ll be the one to kill me then, Snivellus?” Severus shook his head, a smirk coming over his lips, “I think not.” Before James was able to question again what was to come of him, two more wizards entered the room, this time Kingsley Shacklebolt, and Albus Dumbledore. At their appearance, especially that of his former Headmaster, James Potter suddenly grew very white. “Have you heard enough?” Sirius asked the two men. Kingsley nodded, “Regardless, a little time in Azkaban tends to loosen the tongue rather quickly. Once the desperation sets in, after the Dementors have succeeded in draining every trace of happiness, it’s not uncommon for the truth to come pouring out in great detail.” “You can’t!” James begged, turning to Albus Dumbledore, “Sir, you must believe me!” “Mister Potter,” the aged wizard began, “I have spent years defending your actions, years hoping that you would eventually grow out of your immature conceit and tendency for overwhelming attention. You have greatly disappointed me, as you have your friends and all of us. I have not come to defend you, as I have on countless occasions before, no, I am here to bid you farewell as I assist Kingsley with escorting you to Azkaban.” As they prepared to leave the ancestral home of Sirius Black, James turned to face Lily one last time, a desperate apology upon his lips at long last, “I’m sorry, Lily, I’m so sorry!” It was Lily who spoke the final words, words which echoed those spoken by her ex-husband on that fateful afternoon prior to the horrendous violence which had taken place later that evening on All Hallow’s Eve: “Me too,” and she leaned in close to his ear, not kissing him upon the cheek as he had her, “Goodbye, James.” Chapter End Notes Lily is not a killer, and it would have been out of character for her to allow torture or death of anyone, even someone deserving like James. But forgiveness is a far harder feat than revenge, and I believe that she would not be able to cope had Sev been allowed to do something so momentarily fulfilling, as killing him. I believe that there is something incredibly powerful in both Lily and Sev standing before James as a powerful unit and symbol of love and fearlessness, supported by people long thought to harbor vendettas based solely upon popularity and cliques. Well, there might be a gap between this chapter and the next... Posting so many updates calls for a little break, also with Thanksgiving being tomorrow. We had to put our cat down today. My husband and I will both miss her, she was only five, and it was rather unexpected and sudden. I hope everyone understands. :'( I have updated the song choice to reflect one selected by a dedicated reader, Mimmi. I loved it so much that I felt as though it truly was the one meant for this chapter rather than the one that I had earlier selected. Thank you so much for showing me such a beautiful and fitting piece. ♥ Song: Maurice_Ravel's_Piano_Concerto_in_G_Major_-_Vladimir_Jurowski_& Hélène_Grimaud ***** The Locket ***** Chapter Summary With James out of the picture, the Order of the Phoenix can once again focus upon their primary task: Ridding the world of Lord Voldemort. Dumbledore has a special task in mind for Severus and Lily; Sirius finds more unexpected secrets close at hand. Chapter Notes There is a portion of this third chapter taken directly from the brilliant J. K. Rowling in her seventh book, Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows. See the end of the chapter for more notes “Words without experience are meaningless.” -Vladimir Nabokov [locket] In the time since James Potter’s arrest and removal from the ranks of the Order of the Phoenix, a change had undergone the members of Albus Dumbledore’s squadron. Though not plainly obvious when it came to all individuals, those most effected were understandably Remus Lupin and Sirius Black. Despite their disgust at the actions of their once dear friend, and confidante, both men had slowly begun to emerge from their shells and quiet period of mourning. When they had emerged from their reflection, they had found themselves once more face-to-face with Severus Snape- One of the last people either had ever thought they would ever find themselves sharing a side with. Though prone to distrust, considering their previous knowledge of his once allegiance to the Dark Lord and his Death Eaters, Moony and Padfoot slowly found themselves experiencing an emotion that they had never thought possible with the Slytherin from their youth- Trust. Such a simple concept, and yet a terribly complicated emotion when it came to understanding at its fullest. Neither man had ever held much thought to befriending the rival of their little gang of Marauders, on the contrary, they had often either participated in the act of bullying him, or turning a blind- eye all together. Years of indifference and extreme dislike were hardly something that could be washed aside after a single encounter, yet they had all made great strides towards finding something remotely resembling an understanding. The addition of Lily’s presence also seemed to assist greatly when it came to taking steps forward, rather than back. It was on a late evening at the end of January that a meeting was called at 12 Grimmauld Place, the new impromptu headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix. Albus Dumbledore had placed a variety of charms and enchantments over the space, none so powerful as the Fidelius Charm, concealing the location from unwanted eyes. At the stroke of eleven, two shrouded figures emerged from thin air, slipping inside of the ancient residence, and immediately out of sight. “The Half-blood and his filthy Mudblood lady friend have arrived,” Kreacher announced, the words half spat in disgust as he entered the back sitting room of the house. Sirius Black stood and opened his mouth angrily to retort the pervasive language of the elderly House Elf, though the former Headmaster of the three spoke first. “Excellent!” he nodded, “Thank you for their safe delivery, Kreacher.” The wrinkled and lopsided House Elf blinked twice before turning on his heel, muttering to himself as he exited the space, “Mistress Walburga… The filth! The thought of such breeding in Mistress’ House!” “Apologies for the Help…” Sirius grumbled through gritted teeth, motioning the pair inside so that they might warm themselves by the fire. Lily extended her slender hands at the crackling flames within the fireplace, then slipped out of her traveling cloak when Severus stepped behind her to assist her with the garment’s removal. Her long auburn curls seemed positively alive from the dancing light and deep contrast of the fire, her green eyes luminescent in the intimate space. “Will there be more in attendance?” Severus questioned, removing his cloak as well, and hanging the two upon the opposite wall. “No, not this evening,” Dumbledore answered, “In fact, it is truly to the two of you alone, whom I wish an audience.” Sirius Black smiled his usual handsome grin, “My house, my rules.” “Yes, you’ve said that…” the aged wizard sighed. “Is it for the Order, then?” Lily asked. “Very much so,” he nodded, “A task fitting for the both of you to share- Partially because I am aware that separating you would be nothing short of futile in nature.” “And Sirius?” Severus motioned. “I’m just here for my exceedingly good-looks and impeccable personality,” he winked. “Sirius!” Lily scolded. “Yes, that’s quite enough,” Dumbledore frowned, “Mister Black is only present because of his association to the house in which we currently sit- He is aware that I will not hesitate to Obliviate his memory if he continues in his unnecessary japes… This is not a conversation or task in which one might find anything amusing. I assure all of you, that this may be the most dangerous and grave of all tasks we have embarked upon thus far.” “And it is your intention to entrust such an undertaking to Lily and myself?” Severus questioned, arms crossed over his chest. “There is no one else I would consider more capable of than the both of you.” “And what is it, sir?” Lily asked, seating herself in one of the grand armchairs by the fire. “Have any of you ever heard of a Horcrux?” All three exchanged looks with one another, but Severus Snape was the only one who spoke an answer. “Yes.” “And what do you know about them?” “That they are possibly the darkest form of magic ever performed,” he began, voice slightly lower than usual, almost reverent to the mystique of the word, “Legend claims the origin to Herpo the Foul, supposedly the only wizard ever capable of such evil…” “I’ve never heard of such a thing before,” Lily interjected, “Not at Hogwarts or in any book that I’ve read- “ “Which would be very much expected,” their former Headmaster told her, not unkindly, “A ‘Horocrux’ is the word for an object in which a person has concealed a part of their soul…” “You split your soul through deliberately committing murder,” Severus continued, “It is an act considered to be of such a supreme evil- Supreme darkness, that it supposedly results in the murderer damaging their soul in the process.” “One uses that existing damage to their advantage by casting a particular spell which then rips the damaged portion of the soul from the physical body,” Dumbledore resumed, “A process which involves encasing it in an object of its owner’s desire. Thus, if the maker is later killed- “ “He cannot truly die,” Sirius Black completed, eyes and voice expressing a deep fear. A deep silence fell over the space, when all that could be heard was the steady popping and crackling of the fire within the hearth. “And you believe that You-Know-Who has done this?” Lily finally managed, voice quavering slightly. “It is my suspicion,” the aged wizard nodded, eyes trained upon the former Death Eater who shared the space with them. “He has,” Severus said quietly, almost breathing the words rather than speaking them, “I know of one in particular… I recall the moment he tested the fortifications he had placed.” The silence with followed was chilling, especially when he locked his dark eyes with the gray ones of Sirius Black, “It wasn’t long after that Regulus disappeared.” “Master Regulus was a hero!” Kreacher shouted, causing all but Dumbledore to jump from the fright of his unexpected presence, “Master Regulus never brought dishonor upon Mistress Walburga’s house! Never broke Mistress’ heart like the eldest… The ungrateful scum- “ “Enough!” Sirius shouted, fists clenched. “Master Regulus trusted Kreacher! The Dark One required an elf, but he left Kreacher in the dampness and darkness… The hidden cave filled with dead. Kreacher was so thirsty… Kreacher would have died alone, but Kreacher came back here as he was told- And told Master Regulus about the secret… About the pretty. Master Regulus had Kreacher show the way.” Everyone was glued to the elderly House Elf in the midst of his never-before spoken tale, his bullfrog voice animated and intense with the revealing of the secret he had so long concealed. “Kreacher knew the way! Kreacher bled for the door and showed Master Regulus to the boat. We crossed the great black lake together and came to the island- The island where the Dark One had Kreacher drink the potion.” “What potion?” Lily managed, eyes settling on Severus who had always been adept at the study. “A trial of sorts,” Dumbledore stated, his voice sounding very far away, “The kind of Dark Arts best known from You-Know-Who, himself.” “And he made you drink this potion?” Sirius seethed, disgusted by the actions of his younger brother. Kreacher shook his head and wept, “M-Master Regulus took from his pocket a locket like the one the Dark One had,” tears pouring down either side of his snout-like nose, “And he told Kreacher to take it and, when the basin was empty, to switch the lockets…” Kreacher’s sobs came in great rasps, the three wizards and one witch, having to listen closely to understand him. “And he ordered – Kreacher to leave – without him. And he told Kreacher – to go home – and never to tell my Mistress – what he had done – but to destroy – the first locket. And he drank – all the potion – and Kreacher swapped the lockets – and watched . . . as Master Regulus . . . was dragged beneath the water . . . and . . .” “So you brought the locket home,” Sirius managed, pity in his eyes, “And have you tried to destroy it?” “Nothing Kreacher did has made any mark upon it,” he moaned, “Kreacher has tried everything, everything he knows! But nothing, nothing has worked…! So many powerful spells upon the casing, Kreacher was sure the way to destroy it was to get inside it, but it would not open… Kreacher would punish himself, he tried again, he punished himself, he tried again. Kreacher failed to obey orders, Kreacher has not destroyed the locket! And his Mistress was mad with grief because Master Regulus disappeared, and Kreacher could not tell her what had happened, no, because Master Regulus had f-f-forbidden him to tell any of the f-f-family what happened in the c-c-cave…” Kreacher began to sob so hard that there were no more coherent words. Tears fell down and pooled around him upon the ground, his small body writhing in the emotions which he felt. When they had subsided to some degree, he sat up, pulling upon a gold chain that none of them had ever before noticed, which hung about the wrinkled folds of his neck. From the confines of the threadbare rags which he wore, the token of mystery emerged- The object of the story he had finally shared, and the pretty, which he had held on to at the bidding of Regulus Black from all those years before. The locket. “May I see it, Kreacher?” Dumbledore questioned gently, outstretching his hand. The House Elf clung to the object, clearly suspicious of the motives of the white-bearded man before him, “Upon my life, you will have it back when I am done.” Turning the object over in his hands, the great wizard observed and studied the locket with the finesse of an archeologist. After some time had passed, he finally looked up and met the eyes of everyone within the little sitting room in which they sat. “Undoubtedly antique,” he smiled, “Though Mister Snape would be the most familiar with its design and intricacies, when compared to the rest of us present, I presume.” All eyes shifted to the tall man with the shoulder-length jet-black hair, and he narrowed his eyes in obvious confusion at his former Headmaster’s statement. “It appears to be the artifact worn by your house founder, Salazar Slytherin,” Dumbledore continued, hand rising and falling some to show the weight of the locket, “Solid gold, with emeralds forming a distinct and deliberately detailed serpentine ‘S’ upon the front panel. It is most certainly his in origin.” “But how- “ Sirius began. “I presume the use of Parseltongue will open it,” Dumbledore interrupted, “Destroying it will be a different matter entirely…” “We must somehow damage it beyond repair,” Severus added, “Just as Kreacher said Regulus had bid… Fiendfyre perhaps?” “Almost impossible to control!” Lily exclaimed, “We would risk doing more harm than good!” “Only good can come from the destruction of such pervasive objects!” Sirius spat. “Not if we die trying to rid the world of them!” Lily shouted, rising to her feet, “I agree, we must find a way to remove such hideous magic from the world- Especially if tied to You-Know-Who! But we must think before we act, if we mean to live to see our future!” “She’s right,” Severus agreed, “There must be other options… It was merely a suggestion.” “I believe that I have an idea, though I will attempt such an experiment upon my return to Hogwarts,” Dumbledore stated, rising to his feet, “For now, I think we may have had enough excitement for one night. But before I go, can I be certain of your answer to my request? Will the two of you help me in ridding our magical world of these bastardized relics?” “How many are there?” Lily heard herself question. “I have an idea of where to look for more,” he admitted, “This has helped, and will prove of tremendous value.” “At least three,” Severus swallowed, “This being one of them.” Chapter End Notes I'm baaack! :):):) A few things- I would just like to thank everyone for all of the kind words in regards to my kitty, Peppercorn Grey. We're over 4000 hits! And in case you haven't noticed, there's a countdown beginning... 35 chapters for this story. (All good things must eventually come to an end). Song: Beware_of_Darkness_-_George_Harrison ***** A Ring with a Secret ***** Chapter Summary Albus Dumbledore has our lovers accompany him on a very important outing. Chapter Notes There is a portion of this third chapter taken directly from the brilliant J. K. Rowling in her sixth and seventh books, Harry Potter & The Half-Blood Prince & Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows. Also, please proceed with caution if you have any triggers. Abuse, and illusions to sexual assault in this chapter- Please know your own limitations. I don't want anyone to feel uncomfortable. See the end of the chapter for more notes “Love cannot be forced, love cannot be coaxed and teased. It comes out of heaven, unasked and unsought.” -Pearl S. Buck [resurrection] The house was dilapidated and unkempt, the building mostly obscured by overgrown trees. Scarcely a ray of sunlight managed to penetrate the heavy canopy- All light finding itself blocked, with no view of the pretty valley below. From just one look, no one would dare suspect the shack to be a true residence, or anything remotely resembling a home. The walls were mossy, the ground littered with tiles that had once formed a roof- So many had fallen away that the rafters had become visible in places. Nettles grew all around the building, their tips reaching the windows; tiny and thick with grime. Upon the door was the carcass of a snake, a few days old, and nailed like a hideous form of ornamentation. It was her curse; her prison. What former life’s misdeeds had earned her a life deserving of such torment and horrors had been unimaginable. There was nothing she could ever do right, ever perform well enough to prove of her true capabilities and worth when it came to her family. Those odds had been stacked against her from the time of her birth, when she had murdered her own mother when brought forth into the world. She had breathed her first breath as her mother had breathed her last, forever cursing her father with another mouth to feed, and later showing delayed magical abilities. Disgusting little Squib. That’s what he had called her, but he couldn’t have been more wrong. She was no Squib. Any talents were carefully concealed and magic learned secretly and alone in stolen moments. She would prove them all wrong- She would make something of herself, and leave all memories of the disgusting shack and Little Hangleton behind. Unfortunately, they stole her hope too… Her happiness had not been enough; they had wanted her innocence as well. “Pick it up! That’s it, grub on the floor like some filthy Muggle, what’s your wand for, you useless sack or muck?” “Killed your mother, you did. Wish it would’ve been you- Fucking worthless.” “How could anyone love you? Look at yourself!” Her father and brother’s abuses had had been shouted at her for as long as she could remember, something she was able to compartmentalize away whenever they got into one of their spells of drunkenness, or usual meanness. And still, despite their constant cries of how ugly she was, it had not stopped them from their most despicable acts. At fifteen her father had slipped into her room late one evening, smelling strongly of liquor and stale sweat. His shoulders had always been very broad, though his arms slightly too long when compared to his height. His hair was short and dirty, his face hanging in wrinkles, teeth browned from years without brushing. She had feigned sleep, though found her breath coming faster and faster with the sense of building dread and unease. Maybe he would leave her. And then he had surprised her by his large fingers lightly grazing her lank and dull hair. What once would have been welcomed physical attention, the comforting touch of a father to his daughter as she drifted off to sleep, sent a wave of nausea straight to her stomach, and a chill of fear down her spine. “My Merope.” He had never called her such, never seemingly gave a care or second thought her way, and such words spoken were both suspicious to her, and desperately gobbled up with the hope that he was finally expressing a fondness for her that he had long kept hidden deep away. All of that had been shattered when he had crawled on top of her and wounded her in an act of overwhelming and incomprehensible violence. Those same long arms, covered in thick, dark hair, holding her down, one large palm muffling her cries and screams as she attempted to protest- Tried to fight him off with everything that she had… To no avail. No one would hear her. No one would help her. No one cared. When he had finished in his pervasive task, he had grunted as he stood and refastened his pants, staring at her for just a moment before he left the room. Her cheeks were stained with tears, her mouth tasting of iron from the bite she had taken to the inside of her lip. She ached from the sting of brute force to her most intimate and private of places- Pleadingly meeting the eyes of her father, seemingly asking a silent ‘why?’ Marvolo Gaunt had smiled wickedly. The last thing she saw had been the dull glint of light catching upon the gaudy ring he always wore; an heirloom of old. It was a gold ring that sported an obsidian colored stone, another object wicked in its reminder of the wealth their family had once possessed. It was not the only time, and not soon after, her brother too felt the need to join in. “She’s ugly,” Morfin had complained. “Then close your eyes while you fuck her,” Marvolo growled, slapping the boy on the back of the head, “There must be an heir! Salazar Slytherin’s line must not die out! Think about her cunt and not about her face.” With time she had grown numb to their abuses in all forms, praying to whatever God that existed that she might someday escape their torment- And somehow remain without child despite their consistent attempts. It had been overtime that she had occasionally been able to lay eyes upon the tall and handsome heir of the Riddle family. Tom often rode past the shack on horseback, Merope keeping to the shadows as she would watch him pass, silently noting there was scarcely a more well-kept and honorable appearing man. Over time she would occasionally pass through the yard when she could hear the distinct sound of his horse approaching. She knew that she was not beautiful- A fact ingrained into her from both her father and brother’s constant abuses. As if she needed the reminder. Yet, on two occasions, Tom Riddle had slowed in his ride, once time meeting her eyes with his own, and on the other tipping his hat gentlemanly. It became something of a secret escape, a means of somehow regaining a shred of that hope she had one time believed in. Maybe she did deserve more… Maybe there was still hope for her. And then, she had seen Cecilia. Merope had paused in the shadows after hearing the high-pitched feminine laughter, noting the sound of an additional horse approaching. When they had come into view she had felt her heart drop at the sight of her. Cecilia was everything that Merope was not. She had long golden curls, a beautifully cut sky-blue dress that accentuated her curves, lovely blue eyes, and luscious pink lips. “My God, what an eyesore! Couldn’t your father have that hovel cleared away, Tom?” she exclaimed, noticing the shack. “It’s not ours. Everything on the other side of the valley belongs to us, but that cottage belongs to an old tramp called Gaunt, and his children. The son’s quite mad, you should hear some of the stories they tell in the village…” “Tom, I might be wrong- But has somebody nailed a snake to that door?” “Good lord, you’re right!” he stated, voice hinting disgust, “That’ll be the son, I told you he’s not right in the head. Don’t look at it, Cecilia, darling.” Darling. Merope had leaned against one of the overgrown trees in the yard, her back to the gnarled trunk and hidden from their sight. She closed her eyes, hands clutched to her chest as she steadied her breathing. He had called her ‘darling,’ as she had daydreamed he might one day call her. The tightness in her chest was painful, though she refused to shed the tears which threatened to fall from her eyes. “What of the other?” Cecilia had questioned as they continued riding once more. “Whom?” “You said that place is owned by a tramp and his children.” “Ah, yes…” Tom nodded, “There is a daughter too. She seems to be the most normal of the bunch, though quite defeated looking. I’ve seen her a few times when riding past.” “How dreadful.” “She seems quite lovely in her own sad way…” he remarked as they rounded the corner and out of sight. Lovely? Had he actually thought of her in that way? It had been because of that slight hope, that distinct flutter of something resembling endearment or affection, which had led to Merope eventually being caught by her brother one afternoon in her distant admirations for the handsome heir from the village below. Due to his usual poor timing, Morfin had also elected to taunt her and reveal her secret to their father when an unexpected visitor had been present. Bob Ogden had been checking in from the Ministry, and it had seemingly been a moment of true fate. “She likes looking at that Muggle. Always in the garden when he passes, peering through the hedge at him, isn’t she? And last night- “ “Hanging out of the window to look at a Muggle…?” he said quietly, rising to his feet, and then spinning to face Merope, “Is it true?!” Marvolo had raged, “My daughter... Pure-blooded descendant of Salazar Slytherin – Hankering after a filthy, dirt-veined Muggle?” “But I got him, Father!” Morfin cackled, “I got him as he went by and he didn’t look so pretty with hives all over him, did he, Merope?” “You disgusting little Squib, you filthy little blood-traitor!” Marvolo roared, losing control, his hands closing tightly around his daughter’s throat. It had been the same visitor, Bob Ogden, whom had saved her. He had fled in a hurry from their shack, though returned within a quarter of an hour with reinforcements from the Ministry of Magic. Merope had cowered within the filthy house, her father and brother fighting the Aurors until they were eventually subdued and placed under arrest. It had been a short while later that Marvolo and Morfin had been brought before the Wizengamot and sentenced to time in Azkaban. The father for six months, the brother for three years. Merope had known that she had to get away while her father and brother were incarcerated. If she was still in the shack when they returned, she knew that her life would once more resume that horrible existence that had been all she had thought possible in the past. But with them gone, she could finally make something of herself, prove that she deserved more- That happiness and love might actually be possible. Tom Riddle had called her ‘lovely’ once. He was the obvious choice- The obvious candidate to sweep her off her feet, like the Prince Charming of old. Despite what her family might have thought, Merope knew herself capable, and not a Squib- Not dumb when it came to looking through the few old books which remained in the shack and spoke of spells and potions, learned from past generations that had been able to afford attendance to a school called Hogwarts. She immersed herself in the recipes and details, eventually finding precisely what it was that she sought- A love potion. Though her conscience told her that love was something earned, that with time Tom would fall for her, she knew that time was not something that was on her side when considering escape. His fortune and family status was of no concern to her. Merope had never known luxuries in her life, nor was she concerned with the finer things that could be provided to her. No, she merely desired Tom Riddle because he had shown her some chivalry in his rides past the shack. That he had not called her names or thought of her as worthless or ugly. He might pity her some, but she felt that even an emotion such as pity, was something that could somehow transform itself into endearment with time. He just needed a little push. And what was wrong with a love potion that helped nudge him in the right direction, so long as it meant for mutual happiness down the road? Certainly he would see his love for her in time. Her freedom from cruelty had led her to believe that there was a true chance, and that was enough to make her follow through with the plan. Unfortunately, it was not to be. Though it worked for a time, Merope finding herself married and pregnant from the handsome gentleman she had loved from afar, her conscience told her when the time had arrived to stop the draughts of Amortentia. It could have not been worse. The transformation had been almost immediate, the affectionate and loving smiles transforming to a look of frightful shock at the realization of what his life had become, and whom he had unknowingly decided to share it with. Tom Riddle had fled from her, abandoning Merope and the unborn child she carried in a rush to return to the home of his parents in Little Hangleton. She had been destitute. But even more than that, she had been overwhelmingly heartbroken. At barely nineteen, on New Year’s Eve, Merope had staggered up the front steps of Wool’s Orphanage in London. It was snowing and bitterly cold, her clothing tight around her swollen belly. Earlier that day she had sold the only thing of value that she was left possessing- A golden locket that had once belonged to her ancestor, Salazar Slytherin. She had needed the money to pay for the room she had been staying in- Caractacus Burke offering her ten Galleons. It had been barely enough, and though she knew it to be worth much more, she just didn’t care. The baby had been born that night, a son. Though the babe was healthy and bright, his lungs strong in the freezing winter air, Merope found it hard to even smile when he was placed in her arms. They had not been able to fully stop the bleeding from the birth, and her heart was shattered from the loss of a man she had truly thought would see to her reasoning- To the deep love that she felt. Either way, magic had proved just how vile it was to her when Tom had left, and in that moment she had vowed to never utilize it again. “Call him Tom for his father, Marvolo for mine, and Riddle for his last,” she had told the attendant, her voice already weak, the little baby slipping down her arms, “I only wish for him to look like his father…” =============================================================================== The knock upon the cottage door was startling to both Lily and Severus. Silently, he had motioned that Lily move to the back bedroom and out of sight. She had gone without a word, and Severus had drawn his wand, cautiously approaching the door. “Mister Snape, it is I, Albus Dumbledore,” a familiar voice said somewhat muffled through the door, “Your mother same from the noble line of the House of Prince, and was quite gifted at Gobstones…” Severus greeted the aged wizard with a deep frown, though stepped aside to allow him entry. Lily appeared from the bedroom shortly after, much warmer in her smiled greeting to their former Headmaster. “I hope that I haven’t caused too much stress from coming unannounced,” he told them, “I’m afraid that there wasn’t enough time permitting me sending an owl.” “Can I get you a cup of tea?” Lily offered. “No thank you, my dear,” he told her with a smile, “You are most kind. However, I fear that we do not have much time for pleasantries- I believe that I have located another horcrux and wish that you join me.” Severus and Lily exchanged a mutual look of surprise, before Severus spoke. “Have you destroyed the locket?” “Not yet, though it is on my person,” he replied, “I feel that there is a strong likelihood that it might open when we reach the location that I have determined.” “But how will you destroy both it and this new one?” Lily pressed. “I have brought with me a treasured artifact that I believe capable of doing the trick,” Dumbledore stated, though offered no more. “And where are we going?” Severus questioned. “All will be explained upon arrival,” he told them, and then led the way out of the cottage. “I don’t like this,” Severus told Lily as they pulled on their cloaks, “The danger, the cryptic nature- “ “You know that’s what he’s like,” Lily shrugged, “I’m sure we’ll be alright, but we need to be on guard as well.” “I won’t have you hurt.” She placed her hand gently upon his cheek, her eyes locking with his own, “I’ll be careful. But you must also remember that I can do well with a wand too. I’m not incapable of protecting myself or of assisting when needed.” “I know,” he told her with a sigh, “Don’t think- “ But she kissed him before he could make the apology that she knew was upon his lips. Together they met their former Headmaster in the yard and placed their hands upon his arms at his instruction, disappearing into nothingness as they Apparated out of sight. When they next appeared, they stood at the entry of a very overgrown and forgotten hovel. The remains of the residence had seemingly been reclaimed by the wilds- The grasses at waist level, nettles standing six feet and taller. The structure itself had sagged and collapsed from years of neglect and disuse. It was a sorry sight to behold. “What is this place?” Lily asked in a near whisper, “Where are we?” “A place long forgotten, as I’m sure the both of you can tell,” Dumbledore began, “Many years ago it was inhabited by the last three descendants of Salazar Slytherin, the Gaunts.” “The Dark Lord has long claimed to be the heir of Slytherin-?” Severus questioned, brow slightly furrowed. “Excellent, Mister Snape!” the aged wizard nodded, “And you will see that it is not just a claim, but truth. The locket was once possessed by the daughter who lived in this poor excuse for a home. Her name was Merope, the daughter of Marvolo, and sister to Morfin.” “They lived here?” Lily managed, eyes wide, staring at the surroundings, “But- “ “Generations of inbreeding and poor management of fortunes led them to be quite destitute,” Dumbledore interjected, “The finery and wealth from the time of their greatest ancestor was lost long before the birth of Marvolo Gaunt. As the final three members of the line, they were left with only a few trinkets to show for the famous heritage which they sported… This,” and he held up the locket, “And another that I predict we will find within.” “And this Merope was-? Was she the Dark Lord’s-?” Severus thought aloud. “His mother, yes.” The thought of such a frightening being having a mother seemed a strange thought indeed. The fact that Voldemort had descended from the most supremacist founder of Hogwarts was also quite a terrifying prospect when made reality. “Be on your guard,” Dumbledore continued after a brief pause in their conversation, when all eyes had fallen upon the ruin before them, “Though the locket was retrieved with ease, it was clear from Kreacher’s tale that it was not meant to be the case. If we had sought it in the original hiding place, it may have taken years or a lifetime to discover… We were very lucky. We should not suspect that the others will be quite so easy.” “But how did you learn about this place?” Severus managed, “How were you able to discern the truth of the Dark Lord’s parentage and discover the true location?” Albus Dumbledore smiled kindly, “I have my ways. Perhaps a tale for another day… Though know that it was I who first found the orphaned Tom Riddle when it was time to deliver the news of his magical abilities and his invitation to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.” “Tom Riddle?” Lily asked. “The true identity of You-Know-Who,” Dumbledore explained, “Before he had transformed himself into something beyond recognition from his years of learning the Dark Arts, and fracturing his soul repeatedly through heinous acts of violence and horrific magic to create the objects which we now seek to destroy.” “It’s strange to think that he was once a child; once a man.” “Lily…” Severus protested. “She is right,” Dumbledore objected, waving a hand at Severus’ warning tone, “One must never forget that even the Dark Lord is just a man. He has manipulated himself these many years, transforming and changing himself, though beneath the security of these horcruxes, he remains still a mortal man. Now, enough questions for now, shall we?” After many spells performed by each party in attendance, the three finally managed to succeed in their admittance to the ruined shack before them. As suspected, Voldemort had left various fortifications in place, though easily passed when counteracting charms and enchantments that made it impossible for one to breach the barrier of entrance. It was not unlike a puzzle or game of Wizarding Chess when it came to correctly strategizing a means to proceed to the next stage, and then the one that was to follow. The interior of the space was just as ruined as the exterior, though the aged wizard entered with his wand brightly illuminated, taping the toe of his shoe thoughtfully as he seemingly paced the space until he found what it was that he had seemingly sought. Crouching at the ground, he traced the outline of the mud caked floorboards, whispering a spell that popped the edge up so that he was able to lift the section and gently set it aside. His hand disappeared into the shadowy depths, and moments later he extracted a golden box which he placed with equal carefulness upon the soiled remains of a floor. Opening the box, the three found an ornate gold ring within, a deep onyx stone set into the facets, gaudy and antique, though undoubtedly hypnotic. Though faint, upon the surface of the ring, an etching was made only slightly evident by the light from Dumbledore’s wand. It was strange and almost rune-like in appearance, though nothing quite like Lily had ever seen before. A triangle with a circle inside of it, and a thin straight line bisecting the center in a vertical slash. “Sir?” Severus spoke, breaking the silence, Lily and the aged wizard turning to look at him, “The locket? Also, what was it that you brought to destroy them?” Clearing his throat and straightening to full height, the aged wizard nodded, though he continued to glance with obvious intrigue down at the newly revealed object- The mysterious ring; an object that must have held some importance to the evilest wizard of recent history. Without speaking a word, Albus Dumbledore brushed aside the cloak that he wore, revealing a magnificent sword in the dimness of their surroundings, the hilt studded with glittering crimson rubies- Dark and almost alive in the darkness of the ruin. “The sword of Godric Gryffindor?” Lily breathed. Severus looked from the object held in his former Headmaster’s hands, to the woman he had loved for as long as he could remember. “The very same,” Dumbledore nodded, “Legends have told the tale of the courage possessed by the founder of House Gryffindor- None of them so exhilarating or impressive as that involving his fight with a Manticore.” “Exceedingly dangerous,” Severus managed, eyes shifting throughout the space in obvious unease. Dumbledore nodded, “A magical creature exceptionally rare, and renowned for its deadly nature. They are a thing of true legend- Perhaps why the story involving such an impressive wizard is made all the more famous. They possess a head somewhat human-like in nature, but that is where it stops… The body of a great lion, and a scorpion’s tail and stinger make up the rest.” “Their skin supposedly repels magic,” Severus added, “No one has ever been able to utilize any spell against them as a means of subduing them.” Lily was enraptured by their descriptions, though her eyes held deep discomfort and something resembling dread. “They are very rare,” the aged wizard continued, “Perhaps only a handful still in existence to this day; though rarely seen due to their frightening nature. The sting of the Manticore is known to cause instantaneous death, and they have been observed throughout history softly crooning to their victims as they devour them- Bones and all.” “And Gryffindor killed one?” Lily pressed. “If the legends are correct,” he nodded, “Godric Gryffindor was a great many things, but his courage was renowned… Whether or not he truly managed to slay a Manticore remains to question. Though we will find out momentarily whether true or false.” “How?” “Manticore venom is exceptionally rare; just like the beast from which it comes. Horcruxes require damage beyond repair, and there are few substances so caustic in nature to succeed in such a task. As mentioned before, Fiendfyre, while burning exceptionally hot, has been known to be disastrous when wielded. It is something I wish to be our last resort, for finding a location safe enough to attempt such a complex incantation may prove challenging, and I do not wish for us to burn down all of England as a result of a spell gone awry. This sword was forged over a thousand years ago by the Goblin silversmiths.” “Goblin silver is known to imbibe only substances which strengthen it,” Severus interjected, “It makes it a formidable weapon when wielded against enemies…” “And it is my belief that the Manticore venom should prove lethal in the destruction of Horcruxes,” Dumbledore finished. “Would there be anything stronger?” Lily questioned, still reserved with the possibility of failure. “Perhaps only the King of Serpents, the Basilisk,” their former Headmaster thought aloud, “Though they are suspected to be extinct. No one has seen such a monster since the sixteenth century.” “We have to try,” Severus told Lily, though there was a hint of unease in his eyes. She nodded, biting her lower lip, knuckles whitening in their tightened grip upon her wand. “We must be ready for anything,” Dumbledore warned, “I suspect the locket may prove our more formidable opponent… I am willing to face it, if you wish.” “I would be willing to try,” Severus stated. “As you wish,” Dumbledore nodded, “Then I shall face the ring.” As if on cue, in a flash of silver, and swirl of his white beard, their former Headmaster pressed the tip of the ancient relic of House Gryffindor to the onyx stone with the strange markings. There was an ear-splitting scream, something primal in its agony, smoke rising from the heirloom before them. With an audible ‘crack,’ the stone split, though did not entirely break into two pieces, the cry slowly fading away into nothingness. With tentative motions, he then bent at the waist, picking up the object with obvious curiosity, and then slipped the object onto the middle finger of his right hand. Both Lily and Severus seemed to be holding their breath in anticipation of what might happen, half suspecting their former Headmaster to die a slow and painful death right before their eyes from the action of wearing the once cursed object. And yet, nothing happened. Nothing at all. “It would seem that the legends hold some truth,” Albus Dumbledore spoke, though there was some sense of relief in his own voice, and a hint of surprise as well. “How will we open the locket?” Lily asked, “Kreacher said that he tried everything…” “Though I do not claim to be proficient in such a disturbing language, I do have knowledge of a few choice words,” the aged wizard stated, “I suspect Salazar Slytherin would have put such a precaution in place over something of his own creation- “ “Parseltongue?” Severus questioned. Dumbledore nodded, passing the sword to the tall, former Slytherin beside him, “When you’re ready…” Lily’s eyes widened, though she attempted to show a calm and fearless façade. Severus sensed her worry and gave her what he hoped to be something remotely resembling a reassuring look, despite the own building unease that was bubbling beneath his own outwardly collected surface. He then turned to Albus Dumbledore and nodded, his face unreadable. The hissing sound which emitted from the aged wizard was low, though chilling in its sound. Something undeniably foreign, and not meant to be spoken by humans- No matter their origin. The effect was immediate, and at once the locket clicked open, its golden doors swinging wide. Behind both of the glass windows within blinked a living eye, dark and handsome. Despite the appearance, Severus had a strange sensation that he had seen the eyes before- Perhaps the way the Dark Lord’s eyes, or rather those belonging to Tom Riddle may have once looked before becoming scarlet and slit-pupiled. Before Severus could react, a voice hissed out of the Horcrux. “I have seen your heart, and it is mine.” “Don’t listen to it!” Lily cried, “Stab it!” “I have seen your dreams, Severus Snape, and I have seen your fears. All you desire is possible, but all that you dread is also possible…” “Stab!” shouted Lily, her voice echoing throughout the confines of the ruined shack, the sword point wavered slightly, and Severus narrowed his eyes as he gazed down into the eyes. “Least loved, never wanted, by the father who preferred liquor… Least loved, before, by the woman who preferred your rival… Second best, always, eternally overshadowed…” “Severus, stab it now!” Dumbledore bellowed. Severus raised the sword a touch higher, Riddle’s eyes suddenly gleaming scarlet. Out of the locket’s two windows, out of the eyes, there bloomed, like two grotesque bubbles, the heads of James Potter and Lily, weirdly distorted. Sneering in surprise, Severus took a step backwards as the figures blossomed out of the locket, first chests, then waists, then legs, until they stood in the locket side by side like trees with a common root, swaying over Severus and the real Lily. “Severus!” Dumbledore shouted, but the Riddle-James was now speaking with Voldemort’s voice, and Severus was gazing with hatred into its face. “She was better without you, happier without you, glad of your absence… We laughed at your stupidity, your cowardice, your presumption- “ “Presumption!” echoed the Riddle-Lily, who resembled the Hogwarts-era Lily of youth, beautiful, and yet more terrible than the real Lily: She swayed, cackling, before Severus, who looked both horrified and transfixed, the sword loose at his side. “Who could look at you, who would ever look at you, beside James Potter? What have you ever done, compared with him? What are you, compared with a man who has everything?” “Sev, stab it, STAB IT!” Lily yelled, her voice choked with emotion, “It’s lying!” Severus clenched his jaw, the Riddle-James and the Riddle-Lily reflected in his dark eyes, their hair swirling like flames, their eyes shining red, their voices lifted in an evil duet. “Your mother confessed,” sneered Riddle-James, while Riddle-Lily jeered, “That she would have preferred killing herself than ruining her life with you… Lily admits- “ “That I prefer James. What woman wouldn’t prefer him, what woman would take you, you are nothing, nothing, nothing to him,” crooned Riddle-Lily, and she stretched like a snake and entwined herself around Riddle-James, wrapping him in a close embrace: Their lips met. “Do it, Severus!” Dumbledore yelled. “Sev-?!” Lily sobbed. The sword flashed, plunged: There was a clang of metal and a long, drawn-out scream. Albus Dumbledore whirled around, eyes momentarily crazed and ready for more, but there was nothing left to fight. The monstrous versions of James and Lily were gone: There was only the three of them remaining, Severus standing with the sword held in hand, looking down at the shattered remains of the locket on the ground. Slowly, Lily went to him, hardly knowing what to say or do. He was breathing heavily, his eyes softened, a hint of unshed wetness visible. Her own tears had overflowed, running in trails down her face, but she smiled kindly as she placed a hand gently upon his cheek. He covered it lightly with his own, the corners of his mouth twitching only slightly in a secret show that he was alright. That they had made it through unscathed, and that he loved her still- This Lily, the true Lily. Albus Dumbledore stooped, and picked up the broken Horcrux. Severus had pierced the glass in both windows: Riddle’s eyes were gone, and the stained silk lining of the locket was smoking slightly. The thing that had lived in the horcrux had vanished: torturing Severus had been its final act. The sword clanged as Severus dropped it, he had slipped his arms around Lily, shaking slightly. Dumbledore slipped the broken locket into his pocket, and then approached the two lovers, and places a hand cautiously on his shoulder. “Though late in my admission,” the aged wizard began, “I would be a fool to not admit that you are twice the man that James Potter ever could have been. I was wrong in my assertions and defense of him for so long. You are the better man, Severus Snape. I’m sorry for all the wrongs I have in part been responsible for, and I hope that with time you will accept my apology.” “I’m sorry,” Lily cried, her voice thick with emotion, her head pressed into Severus’ chest, “I’m sorry that I married him. I know I was a- “ Severus silenced her with a kiss, though he said nothing, he knew that she understood its meaning. Understood that everything was forgiven, and that there was nothing left to question or remaining unsaid between them. Chapter End Notes I always wished in the film version of Half-Blood Prince that they would have included the story of the Gaunts. I think there is just something so tragic and emotionally compelling when it comes to Merope and Tom Sr. Due to the nature of the horcruxes in this installment, I thought it necessary to include my version of her backstory, something I always deduced from reading the novel. I did make some changes, of course, mainly because I didn't want Tom Sr. to seem like a complete monster. Am I alone in seeing some approval in her 'bewitching' of Tom in order to find some happiness? I know it's wrong, but damn she deserved so much more than that frightful life that she was born into. I also wanted to make sure that there were past references to the specific objects that were being destroyed, so that we understood their origin in some way, while not delving into specific details that would have only made sense years later if in the canon novel. Hopefully I did all of it justice! :P Sev's own ego would lend him to attempt the harder of the two Horcruxes, and while mirroring some aspects of what occurred between Ron Weasley and the locket, I find it a very fitting interaction for Sev to also be privy to. Song: She_is_like_the_Swallow_-_Lucia_Micarelli_&_Leigh_Nash ***** The Gray Lady ***** Chapter Summary With Rowena Ravenclaw's diadem long thought lost, will Lily and Severus be able to somehow find a way of tracking down the coveted artifact? Chapter Notes There is a portion of this beginning chapter taken directly from the brilliant J. K. Rowling in her seventh book, Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows. See the end of the chapter for more notes “Remember that it is nothing to do your duty, that is demanded of you and is no more meritorious than to wash your hands when they are dirty; the only thing that counts is the love of duty; when love and duty are one, then grace is in you and you will enjoy a happiness which passes all understanding.” -W. Somerset Maugham [diadem] March_of_1981 Sheets in complete disarray, Lily rested her head upon Severus’ chest. One leg crossed over his, her right hand laying upon his chest, the fingertips occasionally playing in the light dusting of dark hair that grew there. Severus’ eyes were closed, his breathing deep, his own fingers tangled in Lily’s fiery tresses. “Where do you think the next one is?” she asked him. “I only have guesses,” he sighed, stretching out and planting a tender kiss to her forehead. “Do you think one might be at Hogwarts?” “Anything’s possible.” “I was just thinking that the locket can’t be entirely coincidental,” she continued, chin resting on his chest so that she might actually look him in the face, “Dumbledore said he was an orphan; that he was the one who retrieved Tom from the orphanage… I doubt either of them knew the truth of his parentage- About his descent from Slytherin.” “It’s strange to call the Dark Lord ‘Tom,’” Severus told her, “Such a simple name for such a powerful wizard.” “It’s his name.” “Was,” he told her pointedly, “From what I know of the man, from all of my years in his service, and spent at his side, that much is certain. Why change your name unless something about it proves too horrible to acknowledge? Too embarrassing to admit? He could have just as easily become ‘Tom Gaunt,’ or ‘Tom Slytherin,’ to prove the point of his famous relation, and yet he abandoned it entirely.” He paused, “He once told me that we shared a mutual hatred for our fathers- That they were unworthy.” “What do you think that means?” Lily questioned, “That he was ashamed of the father that he never knew?” “It’s all speculation,” Severus told her, “But my guess would be that his father was a Muggle like my own; a disgrace worthy of his contempt. To descend from the one great founder of Hogwarts who preached the importance of blood- purity, and then to end up being a half-blood… The precise thing which Slytherin was trying to avoid when preserving the ancient bloodlines.” “I just can’t understand it…” “Insanity isn’t meant for us to comprehend,” he told her gently, “Regardless, it seems the only home he ever really knew was Hogwarts.” “Like you,” Lily said all too quickly, slapping a hand over her mouth almost instantaneously, her eyes apologetic, “I didn’t mean that.” “You would be right,” he told her, gently kissing the palm of her hand as he removed it from its place over her mouth, “However, you’re my home now.” She was touched by his admission, and kissed him tenderly on the lips, the length of her naked body pressed up against his. “Perhaps you’re on to something,” he continued, her lips trailing in little kisses and bites down his neck and chest, “If Hogwarts was his closest thing to a home, one would only suspect a fascination with all of its secrets, and with the founders of old- “ Lily’s kisses and attentions had reached below his bellybutton, the heat and hardening of his cock becoming an impossible distraction to his thoughts. “I’m listening,” she told him with a coy smile, eyes full of mischief. “Are you?” “Mmmhmm…” she nodded, biting her lower lip, the color rising on her cheeks slightly. “We should think about their objects- “ As the last word left his mouth, Lily nudged his hardened cock with her nose before tracing a playful line with her tongue from base to tip. He groaned, head falling back, his hand fisting instinctively in her hair. “Could we speak more about their objects once I’m done seeing to yours?” she smiled. “I’m yours, Veela.” =============================================================================== Apart from the locket of Salazar Slytherin and the sword of Godric Gryffindor, there were just two remaining artifacts belonging to the Hogwarts founders which remained to be seen. One was the golden chalice of Helga Hufflepuff, the other the diadem of Rowena Ravenclaw. Both artifacts had disappeared through time, from all that Severus and Lily could discern, but both remained certain that looking into the whereabouts of the two objects was something of high priority in their quest to uncover all of Voldemort’s horcruxes. “The trail of the goblet seems to run cold after 1961,” Lily told Severus one evening, “It appears that the last known owner was a witch by the name of Hepzibah Smith.” “What do you think happened?” “It appears that she was murdered, though records from the Ministry state that it was a crime committed by her House-elf, Hokey, who admitted to poisoning her Mistress’ evening cocoa.” “I suspect an altered memory,” Severus stated evenly, “What do you think?” “I agree,” she nodded, “Regardless, the trail runs cold with her death. My suspicion would be that You-Know-Who stole the cup from her and kept it for himself, transforming it into a horcrux in the process.” “That’ll make things quite tricky with locating it, if that’s the case.” “Have you found anything on the diadem?” “’Wit beyond measure is man’s greatest treasure,’” he quipped. “Is it?” Lily smirked, “I always thought it surrounded things of a more physical nature.” Not for all of us,” he chuckled, “But no, I have found less than nothing if that’s possible. Perhaps it truly is lost… For one thing, it seems to have been missing since the time of Rowena Ravenclaw’s death.” “It wasn’t passed down through the family?” He shook his head, “No. She only had one child, a daughter- Helena Ravenclaw. History claims that she died shortly before the death of her mother. There are no details, though she seemed to be young, thus it was rather unexpected and particularly tragic.” “Are there any images of them together?” Lily asked out of curiosity. “Just the one,” he told her, rotating the book he had been studying around so that she could see. After some time staring, Lily’s brow furrowed, her eyebrows knitting together in thought. Then suddenly, her eyes widened in unspoken recognition. “What is it?” “I know her- Or at least, I’ve seen her before. And you have too! Sev, it’s the Gray Lady; the Ravenclaw ghost! We have to talk to her! We must go to Hogwarts.” =============================================================================== When Severus and Lily arrived at Hogwarts via the secret passageway in the Hog’s Head, they found themselves once more greeted by their former Headmaster in the mysterious room on the seventh floor. It was late in the evening, and they would be free to wander the many levels undisturbed in their mission. The room itself, was located across from a tapestry depicting Barnabas the Barmy, though the entrance seemed to curiously vanish once they exited its confines. Looking back, one would only see an unblemished stone wall where the door once stood, though no hint pointing to a means of making it reappear from the nothingness. Hogwarts was full of its secrets and mysteries, but Lily wondered just how many students had ever come to stumble upon such a peculiar place. She wondered if the room’s mysteries had remained a secret to even the Marauders in their time of attendance. Explaining their reason for a sudden arrival on school grounds had been something best clarified in person, though to their mutual surprise, Dumbledore seemed mildly disappointed in the discovery that they had made. “I wish you good luck,” the aged wizard had told them, “I’m sure you will find her quite unhelpful in your questioning.” “Why do you say that?” Lily had questioned. “You are not the first to learn of the Gray Lady’s true identity,” he explained, “Though far less common a discovery in recent decades, there was a time she found herself mercilessly badgered and hounded at every turn by students across all four of the Houses- All of the seeking the location of Rowena Ravenclaw’s lost diadem.” “But why?” “According to legend, the diadem is said to enhance the wisdom of the wearer,” Albus Dumbledore smiled, “I’m sure you both can understand why so many students might covet such an object.” “You don’t think she’ll tell us anything then-?” Severus asked. “To be entirely honest,” the aged man sighed, “I have come to wonder if she even knows herself. The Gray Lady is known to be evasive and stubborn compared to the other ghosts- Often she just wishes to be left alone. If you do manage to discover something of value from her, it is my suspicion that you may become two of very, very few persons to have ever earned some form of her trust… Perhaps to have even heard her story.” “Then there may be some hope,” Lily said more to Severus than their former Headmaster. “Perhaps,” Dumbledore shrugged, “Though you must tread carefully.” “Where do you think we’ll find her?” Severus questioned. “Often she wanders the corridor leading to the library,” he told them, “Unfortunately, there is not much more I can offer you apart from that. Please seek me out before you leave- Whether successful in your quest, or otherwise.” On their way from Dumbledore’s office, neither Severus or Lily spoke much, both feeling the unmistakable melancholy that their lead would end up a waste of valuable time. But they had to try. Upon reaching the deserted marble staircase, Lily caught sight of a pearly white figure drifting across the entrance hall below. “Nick! NICK! I need to speak with you!” When they had reached the bottom of the staircase, Lily and Severus found themselves face-to-face with Nearly Headless Nick, the ghost of Gryffindor Tower. “Why, Miss Evans!” he explained, offering her a little flourished bow, “Such a pleasant surprise to find myself reunited with a Head Girl so deserving of the honor!” “Nick, we need your help,” Lily continued, though with a smile, “Have you seen the Gray Lady? The ghost of Ravenclaw Tower?” His expression changed to one mixed with both surprise and mild offense, “The Gray Lady, of course; but if it is ghostly services you require-?” “It has to be her,” Severus interrupted, “Do you know where she is?” “Let’s see…” Nick grumbled, his head wobbling some on his ruff as he turned around, “That’s her over there; the young woman with the long hair.” Both Lily and Severus looked in the direction of Nick’s transparent pointing finger and saw a tall ghost who immediately caught sight of the three of them staring at her. She raised her eyebrows in an unreadable expression, and then drifted away through a solid wall. Without hesitation, Lily and Severus raced after her. Once through the door of the corridor into which she had disappeared, they saw her at the very end of the passage, still gliding smoothly away from them. “Wait!” Lily called to her, “Please come back!” She consented to pause, floating a few inches from the ground. She was beautiful, with waist-length hair and an intricately embroidered floor-length cloak, but she also looked haughty and proud. As they came closer, they both recognized her from their tenure at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, though neither had spoken to her previously. “You’re the Gray Lady?” Lily questioned, slightly breathless. She nodded, but did not speak. “The ghost of Ravenclaw Tower?” “That is correct.” Her tone was not encouraging. “Please: We need your help. We need to know anything you can tell us about the lost diadem.” A cold smile curved her lips as she turned to leave, “I am afraid that I cannot help you.” “WAIT!” Lily shouted, desperate to not lose the ghost now that they had found her, “Please…” “This is urgent, Helena,” Severus stated with seriousness, stepping past Lily and towards the ghostly woman, “We have reason to believe that the diadem may have come back to Hogwarts… We have to find it.” “How did you-?” she managed, eyes narrowing some, her voice obvious perplexed by his knowledge of her identity, “You are hardly the first to covet the diadem,” she said disdainfully, “Generations of students have sought the object; pestered and harassed me to no end- “ “This isn’t about using it,” Lily interrupted, “It’s about the Dark Lord- Defeating the Dark Lord.” “He defiled it!” she spat, “Vowed he would destroy it, and rid the world of its abhorrent abilities for good, but he lied to me! LIED TO ME!” They were on the right track then. Both Severus and Lily looked at each other in stunned silence, for a moment, keenly aware that they had the Gray Lady’s full attention. It was Severus who broke the silence that had briefly fallen between them. “Help us.” “It- It is not a question of- “ she stammered, “My mother’s diadem- “ “Then it’s true?” Lily questioned, “You are Helena Ravenclaw?” The ghost looked angry with herself, “When I lived, that was my name. While the diadem bestows wisdom, I doubt that it would greatly increase your chances of defeating that loathsome creature- “ “Once located,” Severus interrupted, “We will do what he did not. I vow that we will destroy the properties of the diadem, if that is your wish.” “Helena, you must help us,” Lily begged. “And what for?” the ghostly woman spat, “How dare either of you presume that I must do anything for you- You who were never even in my House! Neither of you ever approached me before this precise moment, when there was something that you wanted to fuel your quest.” “We haven’t much time,” Severus repeated with urgency. “Perhaps not,” Helena quipped, “I, however, have eternity… For nearly a thousand years I have been left in this purgatory- Endlessly wandering this castle and the grounds. Everywhere I turn I see her; there is no escaping the memory of her, nor the fate easily changed when reversing my prior mistakes.” “What mistakes?” Lily asked. “The laugh which emanated from her was pure bitterness as she turned to look upon Severus, “You. You were sorted into Slytherin, yes?” He glanced to Lily and then nodded, his eyes reflecting both curiosity and suspicion at her question. “Then you have seen him, “ she said quietly, “Though here has scarcely been a student who ever asked the Baron why he wears blood-stained robes… Why he carries heavy chains in penance for the sins he has committed.” Lily covered her mouth with her hand, eyes wide with the realization. “He killed you,” Severus managed. “Very astute, Mister Snape,” Helena frowned. “And yet there was more to it than just that…” Severus and Lily spun around at the sound of the low and raspy whisper to see a second ghost had now joined them; the Bloody Baron floated cautiously a short distance away, the silvery bloodstains unmistakable upon his ethereal garb. The ghost of Slytherin House had always been somewhat illusive and silent in his haunting- Never speaking much, and often more startling than the more approachable spirits at Hogwarts. When not in the dungeons, he often took to the Astronomy Tower, rattling his chains and moaning loudly in true ghostly form. Rarely did he ever join his fellow spirits, seemingly preferring his own solitude. “Baron-?” Helena managed, clearly caught off-guard by his sudden presence. “I do not deny my crime,” he continued, “Even a thousand years fails to adequately give Helena justice for what I did… I will spend eternity trying- A fate I know I deserve. Yet our end is not the beginning- For this is the place where it all began.” “No,” Helena sighed, “No, our deaths were some time later… Brought about by my own failures; my lack of brilliance and thorough thoughtfulness.” “Helena- “ the Bloody Baron protested. “Ravenclaw was my curse,” she said with true sorrow, the words each enunciated with dislike, “I hated her for my childhood and my pain… Brought up alone, in the company of strangers all because her own brilliance was always more important- Her renown made her seek challenges and postings; escapes from motherhood and a daughter deeply introverted and insecure. While building this very school with the other founders, she chose to leave me behind… But not without adding crippling expectations along the way.” “She loved you…” the Baron offered. “Loved me like you did?” she questioned, the bitter-sad laugh echoing through the deserted corridor once more. Neither Lily or Severus were certain of how best to proceed, so elected to remain silent as they continued to observe the two ghosts and the interaction that was taking place. “Even by the time I came to Hogwarts, I dreaded being sorted into the House that had been founded by my mother,” Helena continued, “Helga Hufflepuff had only just placed the tattered hat of my godfather upon my head when my mother quickly snatched it away. She pointed me over to the table draped in blue and bronze… I had wanted any other House as a means to define myself; to seek my independence away from her and the never-ending comparisons. If my mother had known a thing about me- Truly cared about me, she wouldn’t have forced such stresses. No one deserved such a fate! Thus, I fell into misery.” “Surely she would have helped you…” Lily tried. “Helped me? Helped me?!” Helena repeated, incredulously, “She wondered what was wrong with me! For the life of her it was incomprehensible why her own flesh and blood did not possess the same ease and natural talent that she did! Try harder! Practice more! You must not be studying enough! I was to always remember that I was her legacy- The only surviving child of one of the greatest witches of her generation. For me to fail meant that it would reflect poorly upon her… Failure was never something in my mother’s vocabulary, nor something I believe her capable of understanding.” She paused for a long moment before continuing, “I was alone most of my time here… Something I grew used to, always having felt overwhelming insecurity thanks to the stresses of my studies. Never smart enough; never pretty enough either.” “You have always been all of those things and more,” the Bloody Baron stated quietly, “If only you listened…” “’If only,’ seems to be my fate,” she sighed, “Why else would I find myself forced to remain in this un-whole form; left to wander these halls with fools like the Friar and Nicholas de Mimsy-Porpington?” after another short pause, “The cruelest fate of all, forced to look upon my murderer- You.” “I have always loved you,” he told her sadly, “It was my own foolishness and temper that was my undoing.” The Gray Lady turned to Severus and Lily, “You want the diadem? My mother’s true legacy?” “They want to help- “ the Baron began. “Help me as you did?!” she shrieked, “The shame is my own to bear! It was I who stole my mother’s crown- I who only wished that its abilities could somehow make me share in her uncanny brilliance- To somehow make her proud of me!” “So you ran away?” Lily asked. “I slipped into her chambers while she was sleeping and removed it without a sound. I was sixteen. Still I knew right from wrong and the magnitude of my crime. Staying would’ve meant eventually being caught, and the look of shame and disappointment from my mother was not something I wished to face. She was no fool, and there was no doubt in my mind that she would quickly realize that the source of such treachery could only be traced back to me. I fled into the night without looking back.” “Where did you go?” Severus questioned. “Albania,” she said almost dreamily in reply, “With only the diadem and barely anything else… Though it didn’t keep my mother from tracking me down or sending the Baron to bring me back.” “She was dying,” the male ghost explained, turning to her, “Helena, you know she regretted everything that had transpired between you! She only wished to see you one last time.” “Which we both clearly failed at,” she frowned. “Rowena sent the Baron to find you?” Lily pressed. “She knew to send a man who had long loved me. She knew that he would not rest until he had found me.” “You-?” The Baron nodded, “Rowena was fatally ill. I tracked Helena to the forest where she was hiding, though she refused to return with me. She refused me as she had refused me all through our time at Hogwarts.” “Which was mainly from my desperation to stay away,” Helena said sadly, “I said things that I didn’t mean, and he became violent. He was furious at my rejection- My refusal. He was jealous of my freedom and he stabbed me.” Staring down at his own translucent feet, the Bloody Baron nodded, “I killed her. The only woman I ever loved… I killed her.” The Gray Lady lifted aside the cloak she wore to reveal a single dark wound in her white chest. “I held her in my arms as she faded away- “ the Baron managed, though voice choked with emotion. “When he saw what he had done, he was overcome with remorse,” Helena stated, “The only comfort I felt as I passed to the other side was the lingering warmth of his embrace… I wished that I wouldn’t have acted upon my anger at my mother, that I could have told him I would have gladly stayed hidden forever at his side.” She paused, and the Baron met her eyes with ghostly surprise all his own, clearly never having heard her admission until that moment in time, “He took the weapon that had claimed my life, and used it to kill himself.” Neither Lily or Severus knew what to say. “My mother’s diadem remained where I had hidden it when I realized that the Baron had found me,” she continued quietly, “Concealed inside a hollow tree.” “A hollow tree?” Severus questioned, “What tree?” “Lost to time in Albania,” the Baron stated, eyes glued to the ghostly woman who continued to hold his heart. “A lonely place I had thought was far beyond my mother’s reach,” Helena added, “I had thought Tom Riddle would destroy it- End the suffering that the diadem had brought to all who wore it.” “You told him?” Lily asked. She closed her eyes and nodded. “Helena?” the Baron managed, “Tom? The Head Boy from my House? The Dark Lord?” “I had… No idea… He was… Flattering,” she tried to explain, “He seemed to… To understand… To sympathize…” “So he retrieved it,” Severus stated, “He must have stowed it when he came seeking the post from Defense Against the Dark Arts.” “There is a room that appears when you need it,” the Baron interjected suddenly, “Though remains hidden away and unseen… Most never learn of its existence. On that day he came back, I recall seeing Tom upon the seventh floor… He was changed beyond recognition; no longer the handsome lad who had been brilliant beyond his years. Yet he continued to carry himself in much the same manner I had long recognized as being uniquely him, a satchel hanging from one shoulder, and that diary he always carried with him during his time here at Hogwarts… I found it curious that he would still possess such an object after so long a time. Speak to Dumbledore. He may be able to help you find that very same room.” For a brief moment, Lily and Severus locked eyes with each other in mutual knowledge of the odd room that they had entered the castle through on two occasions. Voldemort must have known of its existence, though in a different form than what they had seen. But how? With the knowledge that they had received, the pair raced away from the two ghosts. As they rounded the corner, it seemed as though the Bloody Baron and Gray Lady may have come to a new understanding- The mutual telling of their story having somehow healed part of the horrors of their distant past. Both Lily and Severus would later recall the image of them embracing, before fading completely from sight. *** “I’m amazed that you learned so much,” Dumbledore told them, his fingers interlaced as he sat behind his desk enraptured by the tale they had relayed to him, “Your suspicions appear to have been correct as well- The Bloody Baron having witnessed Tom outside of the Room of Requirement is quite the lead.” “Room of Requirement, sir?” Severus questioned, “Is that what it’s called?” The aged wizard paused for a moment before speaking, “It is a mysterious room of unknown origin. To what end the founders of our school constructed such a location remains lost to time and space, though it has been present for as long as anyone can remember. I only learned of its existence after becoming Headmaster- Armando Dippet left instructions as to its location and how to access it in his succession notes. The passage created between it and the Hog’s Head Inn was a later addition that came to fruition by Aberforth and myself. It seemed a necessary exit in case of emergency situations, and a safe-room for those seeking asylum. The true purpose of such a place escapes me completely, though it has seen its uses…” “Does it always take that form?” Lily asked. “Ah, the true puzzling detail!” he smiled, blue eyes twinkling behind his half- moon spectacles, “It appears to transform itself into whatever the individual needs it to be when seeking it. An amazing bit of magic that I have never seen before, nor do I ever have hopes of recreating, it would seem. There are some limitations, of course, though the fascinating aspect of it remains the remarkable degree of sentience it seems to possess.” “How does one make it appear?” Severus inquired. “You must walk past it three times while thinking about precisely what it is that you need. Only then will the door appear.” “How will we know what to ask it for?” Lily sighed, “It could be anything!” “True,” Dumbledore told her, “Though it may be far simpler an endeavor than you think.” Lily stared at him with confusion, but it was Severus who spoke, half to himself, half to his counterparts. “A hiding place for an item of immense value; the Room of Hidden Things.” Albus Dumbledore accompanied the pair back the seventh floor and into the mysterious room once Severus had made the door appear. His gut-instinct had told him that they may need an extra set of hands in finding the diadem- If it was in fact it which was hidden inside. Their likelihood of discovering anything was not particularly in their favor, though it was certainly worth a look. Vanquishing the Dark Lord was their top priority, and they could not afford to leave any stone unturned. Besides that, he had brought with him the sword of Godric Gryffindor, an object they knew capable of destroying the immensely evil objects that they sought to destroy. Entering the space was at once completely different than on the prior occasions that they had found the space. There were mountains upon mountains of junk and other objects piled high to the ceiling and consisting of all types of objects one could imagine. Towers of broken and damaged furniture- Desks and chairs, cabinets and trunks. Some crumbling with age, most covered in thick layers of dust. Books here, there, and everywhere. Left in piles, stacked on forgotten furniture, remaining in ancient bookshelves. Some of them were text books, some in languages perplexing to the passerby. The farther in they went, they split down different pathways that had been carved through the debris, eyes looking about for any hint of the object they sought. At the far end of the room Lily spotted a catapult, startling suddenly as she heard crunching beneath her feet. Looking down to the stone floor she noticed what appeared to be pieces of long-hatched dragon eggs littering her pathway. Along their former Headmaster’s path, an enormous stuffed troll- Poorly done taxidermy revealing stuffing in places. Farther in still, several rusting swords and a heavy bloodstained axe. Severus breathed in the smell of dust and decay- Recognizing most of his surroundings as items of refuse, and wondering why they had come to be stored in such a place, rather than being discarded, as seemed the far better option. A few heavy broomsticks that looked to be a few hundred years old, cages piled haphazardly- One holding a skeleton of a five-legged creature within that he could not easily identify. Various chipped bottles with congealed potions, and strange corked bottles holding oddly shimmering fluid he suspected of malevolent origin. The three paths intersected at a strange little hollow near the center of the room, the space filled with much the same junk that they had already come to pass in their wanderings, though a large and forbidding cabinet dominated the space, strange runes carved into its face, though seemingly constructed of common wood. Lily shivered in its proximity, not knowing its true purpose, though suspecting that it could not be related to anything good. On the ground before it was a pile of old hats and costume jewelry, mothballed cloaks left in balled up disarray. Upon a charred table lay a few stray dominoes and a frightful looking mask that appeared to be a cross between a goblin and acromantula. Beside that was a blistered old cupboard topped with a hideous pockmarked stone warlock wearing a dingy old wig. The light shone just so in that moment, all three pairs of eyes catching upon the gleam: An ancient, discolored tiara. “Do you think that’s it?” Lily whispered. “I sense very old magic,” Dumbledore remarked, “And something frighteningly evil beneath the surface.” “Give me a boost?” Lily questioned, turning to Severus. He nodded, kneeling down and interlacing his fingers so that she might place her foot upon the strengthened surface. He hoisted her up effortlessly, and she reached for the object in question. She wavered, instead removing the wig from the statue, tiara still attached, and then having Severus lower her further to the ground. She placed the dusty bundle upon the nearby table, all three staring at the mysterious diadem, long thought permanently lost. Wit beyond measure is man’s greatest treasure. Though difficult to read through all of the dirt and dust, the engraving was as clear as day, the image mirroring that of what books and portraits had long depicted the brilliant founder of Ravenclaw House wearing. “What now?” Severus asked, his voice also low through the cathedral-like space. “I believe that it is Lily’s turn,” Dumbledore stated, passing the sword to the former Head Girl, “It would be unfair for you and I to take all of the pleasure from destroying the Dark Lord’s horcruxes, and never allowing Lily an opportunity to remove one herself.” “I- Umm…” Lily protested, the sword of her House founder feeling very heavy in her hands, “Are you sure?” “If you would rather not, either myself or Mister Snape will do the honors,” Dumbledore said kindly, “However, it was you who suspected that there was a horcrux hidden within Hogwarts, and it seems only fitting for you to remove it- If you would like.” “Only if you want,” Severus nodded, his eyes soft with affection. Lily nodded, taking a deep breath, and then struck the egg-sized sapphire with the tip of the blade. There was no ear-splitting shriek as with the ring, no strange vision as with the locket. For a moment she wondered if she had even managed to do anything, or if in her own nervousness she had somehow missed the mark completely. Upon closer examination, the metal itself seemed to be crumbling, a bloodlike substance leaking from the once precious stones that had adorned the object of renown legend. It was dark and tarry, the object rattling with inner torment, the vibration causing it to move of its own accord across the tabletop it had come to rest upon. When it fell to the floor it shattered further, a distant scream finally audible from the relic as the horcrux and diadem alike perished into nothingness. Chapter End Notes You will find that Helena Ravenclaw's story is somewhat different in my version, as well as her relationship with the Bloody Baron. They've had nearly 1000 years to come to some type of understanding, and I feel that the way I left them gave some essence of hope for forgiveness. As I'm sure most of you are seeing, these last chapters are being themed along the lines of the remaining horcruxes, leading up to our ending. I have been allowing (as I usually do), for my creativity to dictate the lengths of the chapters as I write. I hope that everyone is still enjoying the story, I do apologize for the increase in some more disturbing content, though I find it necessary when describing the backstory and painting the picture of what I believe may have happened. Only a few more to go! ♡ Song: Hide_&_Seek_-_Imogen_Heap ***** The Diary ***** Chapter Summary Severus finds himself once more venturing into the belly of the beast. Chapter Notes See the end of the chapter for notes “It is hopelessness even more than pain that crushes the soul.” -William Styron [diary] May_of_1981 When Severus Snape awoke from his slumber, he was sitting straight up in bed, a thin sheen of cold sweat clinging to his body. The bedside lamp flickered to life at once, and Lily turned to him, gently placing her hands upon his clammy skin, her green eyes filled with concern. “I’m alright,” he breathed, fingertips finding hers and interlacing gently; he repeated himself. “A nightmare?” He fell back against the pillows, hand brushing away the dark strands of hair clinging to his brow, “They’ve become more frequent since we began destroying his horcruxes.” “Your mark?” He rolled his forearm so that she could see it, the skin red and inflamed beneath the branded mark- The sign of continued disregard for the summons to the side of his once Master. “He must know- “ “Of that I am certain,” Severus said with conviction, staring up at the ceiling, “My betrayal would have been most unexpected; I am positive that he has been hunting me. I’m sure that he will haunt me until one of us is greeted by death.” “Do you see him in your dreams?” “Sometimes,” he shrugged, “They vary in darkness and morbidity. However, this one was not without assistance to our cause either.” “What do you mean?” “Though seemingly insignificant at the time, I recently recalled something that the Bloody Baron said when we sought the diadem of Rowena Ravenclaw at Hogwarts,” he paused briefly, “When seen upon the seventh floor, the Baron mentioned having recalled him ‘changed beyond recognition,’ though oddly in possession of a ‘diary he always carried with him during his time at Hogwarts.’ Though normally not something I would consider of necessary value, the ghost stated that even he ‘found it curious that he would still possess such an object after so long a time.’ I’m uncertain as to whether or not the Bloody Baron thought the information important or otherwise- Maybe just coincidental in his recalling of the moment. However, it stuck out to me in that moment, and has since that fateful encounter; I believe that I may finally realize why.” Lily stared at him waiting. “If I were to recall each of the oddities that occurred during my time in service to the Dark Lord, we would find ourselves wrinkled with age,” he continued, “And yet, I distinctly recall the presence of a strange book- Always kept close at hand for a number of years. It was bound in brown leather, the corners capped with brass ornamentation- Something making it distinct in its appearance, rather than seeming to be just a favored old book. I do not remember him ever opening it, so as to the innermost contents I have no idea… It would be a fascinating prospect to learn the workings and thoughts present to such a wizard!” seeing Lily’s concerned expression, the frown growing upon her lips, he sat up, his hands upon her shoulders, “I do not mean as a means to follow in his footsteps, or to continue his cause… I refer to the psychological reasoning that led for such a person to transform into what the Dark Lord has become.” “But such a book exists?” she questioned. “I am certain of it,” he told her, “And if the Baron was correct in his remembrance of the events of that fateful day, I would not be surprised if that book is too a horcrux.” “How many more can there be?!” she sighed. “I have no idea,” Severus answered her gently, “Dumbledore has yet to reveal how we will know when they have all been destroyed- If he even knows the answer himself. They are such a rarity… A deeply evil rarity. But how many times can the soul survive such fractures? Such stresses placed upon something so pure and fragile as the soul, could only be disastrous in extreme usage. We cannot assume that the Dark Lord made a horcrux every time he took a life… If that were the case, we would be endlessly searching until the end of our days.” “But the cup-?” Lily questioned. “I don’t doubt that it is also one,” he told her, “With the locket and diadem proven in their destruction, and the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of Hepzibah Smith, I am almost certain of it. But we have no leads as to its whereabouts.” “And this diary?” “I know where to find it.” Lily stared at him for a long moment, her green eyes glued to his dark ones. Though her face remained emotionless, her eyebrows even, her soft pink lips straight, there was something strangely unreadable in her eyes- Eyes that often revealed so much as to her innermost thoughts and desires. “What is it?” he asked her, hands ghosting over hers, and moving in a gentle sweeping motion up her arms. “I can’t lose you.” Her words were spoken unwaveringly, though there was the hint of emotion behind them- Deep sadness and fear. He raised his hands to her face, placing one upon each cheek, his eyes searching hers, “You won’t lose me, Lily.” “You don’t know that, Sev!” she gasped, the tears springing forth from her eyes, “Damn it, neither of us know that! I’m trying to be strong, I’m trying to have faith that we will make it through all of this alive… That we can finally be together and be happy, but I feel like every time there’s a possibility of happiness for us, something else gets in the way. It’s as though the world is out to end us, to keep us forever apart, and I can’t- I won’t let it happen!” she cried, shaking her head, voice a quavering whisper, “I can’t lose you… I can’t.” He brought her to his chest in a tight embrace, his hands holding her close, lips kissing her hair, her forehead, brushing the tears from her face, “I love you, you know that?” She nodded, coughing on a sad laugh, her arms moving around his neck. “You will not lose me,” he told her softly, “No matter what happens, you will never be without me. I have spent far too long separated from you to ever allow something like that to happen again… But you know as well as I that we must do this- I must do this. It is my penance for the darkness I once allowed to consume me; my chance to repair the chaos and damage- The evil that I helped him create.” “I love you,” she whispered, moving away just far enough so that she could again look into his eyes. He kissed her, “I don’t deserve you, I never have. Lily, you are my dreams made reality; the reason why my heart still continues to beat. You brought be forth from the darkness when I had believed my own soul to be too far gone to salvage. You have shown me the way into the light and given me a new reason to live- To crave my future and the life that is possible for me to live,” a sparkle of emotion appeared in his eyes as he told her with utmost sincerity, “You saved me.” The pang of realization brought about a fresh wave of fear, “You’re going alone, aren’t you?” “I must.” “And you’ll come back to me?” He smiled, “You weren’t the only one gifted when it came to magic… I have a few tricks you’ve yet to see.” She shoved him gently, though laughed in spite of her own tears when he pulled he close again, pressing a kiss to the pulse upon her neck. “When all of this is over, Lily Evans, our life will truly begin,” he promised her, “The world will be ours, and I’ll make you my wife- If you’ll have me,” she kissed him at his promise, but he broke free of her lips, continuing, “We’ll walk along that beach outside, our children playing in the sand and splashing in the water- “ She placed her hands upon his face, lips colliding with his, silencing him further. The stubble on his face was rough, her chin already rubbed raw from the desperate kisses she sought. The blankets slipped down from her shoulders, and she moved onto his lap, straddling him. His hands moved around her, hands clinging to the satin fabric of her nightdress, clutching it with equal need as her fingers moved through his jet-black hair. Lily broke their kiss for a moment, her eyes meeting his, pupils blown wide with an unspoken heat, lifting her arms above her head in a reach towards the ceiling. He wrenched the garment up, tossing it to the wooden floorboards as it crested the crown of her fiery auburn locks. The moonlight filtering through the sheer curtains mixed with the glow of the bedside lamp set her fair skin aglow. His hands rested upon her shoulders, though slowly moved down the front of her arms, eyes meeting hers briefly, as he slid them inward to cup her breasts, lips planting a tender kiss to the center of her chest. Her nipples puckered at his touch, already sensitive in the chill of the night air. He moved his hands to her sides, following the curve of her form, until they came to rest on the flair of her hips. Her kiss was crushing in its desperation, and within moments he had risen on his knees slightly, Lily’s arms moving around his neck to keep her purchase, as he slipped his boxer briefs down from his waist and threw them to the floor. “Never let go,” she whispered to him, goosebumps prickling upon his arms, the hair rising on the back of his neck at the feel of her breath on his naked skin. He pressed a kiss to the place where her neck and shoulder met, inhaling the scent of her, relishing the feel of her skin beneath his fingertips, and the silken glide of her hair. She gasped at the feel of him beneath her, hard and warm. Softly, she trailed her hand down the front of him, fingers lightly moving along the lines of muscle, scars, and through the dark and wiry hair. She slipped the hand between her legs, rising slightly on the balls of her feet as she grasped his cock, the tip already leaking his pleasure at having her so close. She rubbed his blunt head along her slit, her own desire mingling with his, and causing a groan to emit from deep within his chest. He leaned back from her, right arm bracing himself upon the bed, his left hand holding firm to her waist and the small of her back. She was a vision of loveliness, and for the briefest of moments he forgot to breathe at the very sight of her. Curls cascading down her shoulders and arms, her green eyes focused upon him, and him alone. There was no one else in that moment- No one more important in the whole of the world besides the two of them. He smirked at the redness around her mouth, skin rubbed raw from his unshaven stubble, her lips already swelling from the intensity of their kisses. “I love you.” She paused for a moment, his cock pressed to her entrance, “There is no one else in this world who can make me feel as you do,” she told him, “No one else who knows me the way you do- Makes me feel whole. A lifetime with you will never be long enough for me to show you just how much you mean to me… How much you have changed my life for the better.” “You gave me hope when I thought all was lost,” he confided, suddenly aware of the magnitude of his decision to track the diary; of the real possibility, that he would not make it back to her alive. “Hope remains,” she whispered, leaning close to him, her lips ghosting over his. He circled his left arm around her tighter, relishing in her embrace, her kiss, as though it was his very strength, his very life-force meant to carry him through the danger that lay in waiting. He rolled her beneath him in one swift motion, pressing tender kisses down the line of her jaw, neck, and chest. She bit her lower lip, eyes closing to his attentions, hands moving up to tangle in her hair. Reaching between them, he guided himself into her depths, sheathing himself fully between her thighs. They made love as though it would be their last time- Equal parts tenderness and desperation in their ardor. Though neither would dare admit the truth of it, it was their goodbye to one another- Their sweetest goodbye. =============================================================================== It had been nearly seven months since the events on All Hallow’s Eve. Whether or not Voldemort and the Death Eaters truly knew that Severus and Lily had survived the horrific encounter, remained to be seen. Albus Dumbledore had been exceedingly protective of the pair since discovering them within the Forest of Dean, his offering of the cottage by the sea a perfect and secluded hiding place. Among the members of the Order of the Phoenix, only a select group knew of their survival, those individuals sworn to secrecy, and loyal to their deaths. Upon his last interaction with Lucius Malfoy, Severus had removed all memories pertaining to their encounter; it had been a necessary precaution when deciding to go rogue. Yet, he knew that his old Master was no fool- One does not become the greatest and darkest wizard of all time from believing everything at face value. Though things had remained quiet, he was certain that the Dark Lord was keenly aware of the betrayal, and biding his time like his frightening pet snake Nagini… Waiting for the perfect and opportune moment to strike. He had not informed Dumbledore of his decision to embark on his own; something he had been certain that his former Headmaster would object strongly to. But he had his reasoning, and bidding Lily farewell had been one of the hardest decisions that he had ever made. As he exited the cottage that had quickly become their home- A place they could envision their future life together, he turned to face her one last time. She was trying desperately to remain strong, and for that he was grateful; seeing her cry would be just another reason- Another excuse for staying. He had to do this. And still, as he offered her one last smile, he found himself breathless as she raced up the pathway and flung herself into his arms. When he pulled away, he was surprised to find her stunning green eyes dry- She was strong, she would persevere. With a distinctive ‘pop,’ he Aparated into the unknown, praying silently that he would return to her as he had promised. Severus had elected to keep his plans secret from even Lily in plotting his actions in regards to the supposed horcrux that he sought. To be fair, most of it was yet unknown to even himself. He had no way of knowing where Voldemort and the Death Eaters were, or how they were continuing in their dark and evil plans. The one clue he could go on was his old friend and link to the cause: Lucius Malfoy. Finding the egotistical wizard was not something that he was concerned with, but managing to get him to listen and reveal what it was that he needed to know was another matter entirely. On top of all that, he was determined to also remain unseen and ghostlike in his wanders for his own safety. He had been a lieutenant, and his methods of secrecy and spying had been renowned within the ranks of the Dark Lord’s army at the time. But managing to get himself alone with the last remaining official in Voldemort’s inner circle would no doubt, prove both cumbersome and troubling. Both the Ministry and the Malfoy Manor were out when it came to options, both being far too visible, as well as watched by both sides at war. He would have to discretely stalk the tall and silvery-blonde wizard; map his movements, and discover the perfect moment to steal him away. Undoubtedly, there would be much for both of them to share when the moment was right. It had taken far less time than Severus had expected, but tailing Lucius Malfoy had eventually paid off. It had been after leaving the Ministry of Magic one afternoon that he had finally had his chance. Much to his surprise, the Pure- blood had taken and alternate route in his wanderings, slipping down a side alley, and out of sight from passerby. Keeping to the rooftops and shadows, Severus had followed him, slipping invisible and silently into earshot of his once Hogwarts Prefect. The transformation which hacd come over his once close friend had been startling in its magnitude. He was gaunt and thin, clearly stressed from more than just the usual business at the office. “Has the absence been welcomed?” a voice questioned the silvery-blonde man. Lucius had his wand drawn as a means of response, rather than speaking. Moments later a second figure emerged from the shadows of the alley. “Rosier?” Lucius questioned, “What are you doing here?” “Dark Lord wanted to make sure that you knew that Wilkes and I had seen him through to Little Hangleton,” the man explained, “Said he was in the mood for country air… Mentioned something about his desire to visit the home of his father.” “It has been a shame to see him go, though I can understand the want for a change in scenery,” Lucius sneered, “Thank you for informing me.” Evan Rosier nodded, “We’ll send word when everything’s settled. You should see the place! Dumpy and ancient as all get-out, but there’s a certain character to it…” “Careful,” Lucius warned, “You’ll do well to keep such observations to yourself in his presence.” “Of course, lieutenant,” the wizard agreed, “Good day.” The two had Aparated in quick procession, the sound of their departure from the narrow space made all the louder. But Severus had learned something of immense importance, and if he wanted to act upon the information garnered, he knew that he would need to do so quickly. *** Upon his arrival to the Malfoy Manor, he found the place decidedly different. It was silent- Oddly quiet for a place that had once been the sprawling headquarters for the army and innermost workings of Voldemort’s dark scheme. He had come under the cover of darkness, though that had not assisted him much when it came to observing the exterior of the mansion. Few lights were lit within, leaving an increased feeling of dread crawling over him. Had he been wrong in his suspicion to return to such a place? Had Malfoy been aware of his presence during his time of following the former Prefect? Had he been tipped off to the other members of the Dark Lord’s army- Perhaps even to the Dark Lord himself? There was only one way to find out. The House-elf that had greeted him at the front door had been terrified, disappearing into the shadows as he entered the grand and ancient house. Slipping through the shadowy interior, Severus made his way to the room that once been occupied by the Dark Lord himself, finding it transformed into something resembling its former purpose upon entrance. “Dobby, who was it?” Lucius questioned, his back to the doorway. Severus paused, curious as to the question, though figuring that it must be the name of the House-elf that had answered his knock upon the door. Bursting in would have been a simple solution, though hardly the polite option, or one rendering his sudden reappearance as a surprise that might buy him some time to question his once friend. “Damn it, elf!” Lucius spat, rising from the high-backed chair, “Are you as useless as you appear or- “ His words died upon the appearance of the hooded figure that stood poised behind him, wand at the ready. “Who-? How did you get in here?” the silvery-blonde wizard managed, attempting to cover his surprise with a tone of malice that scarcely held any effect, “Where is my House-elf?” Rather than responding to his questions, Severus slowly made his way towards the man, his own sudden anger becoming overwhelming when finally faced with a former colleague from the inner circle of Voldemort. Though he had seemed oblivious on the night of All Hallow’s Eve, Severus could not help but wonder if Lucius had held any part in the attack that had occurred in Godric’s Hollow. He had seemed unaware when questioned under threat of true death, though Severus had seen it all before. The demons he had managed to hold at bay for so long a time were suddenly bubbling with a ferocious intensity beneath his chilling façade, and he wondered if even he would be capable of keeping them in check when faced with this creature of the Dark Lord- This painful reminder of the man he had once been when blindly following Voldemort’s plans. Lucius stumbled in his attempt to place some distance between himself and the unknown figure, his wand held uneasily in one trembling hand. A flick of his wand and an unspoken ‘Expelliarmus’ was all that it took to disarm his fellow lieutenant, the richly finished dark elm flying through the air, the silver snake-headed handle glinting in the lowlight of the room. He caught it effortlessly, slipping the sophisticated object into the inner pocket of his cloak as he continued in his approach. The expression upon the former Slytherin Prefect’s face was one of dread and masked fear, though plainly present to one who knew him so well, “What do you want?” Another flick of his wand, and this time, the silent muttering of ‘Levicorpus’ brought about the effects of one of his trademark jinxes. Lucius Malfoy found himself hoisted into the air by his ankle, arms waving about madly for purchase, though finding nothing within arm’s reach to help right him. Instead he writhed in a frenzied rage, the blood rushing to his head with every moment he remained upside down. “You bastard!” he seethed, “Do you know who I am?! How dare you!” Severus approached to the outskirts of the silvery-blonde man’s reach, crouching down before him, and casually removed the cloak that concealed his face from view. At the reveal of his identity, Lucius’ eyes widened tremendously, the unmistakable look of fear coming over his once enraged features. He sputtered to find the words, all the while appearing as though he was seeing a ghost. “It would seem as though you didn’t expect to see me,” he said quietly, his face expressionless in the darkness of the space. Lucius flinched, “I-I- No…! Please. We thought you were dead! You disappeared and we all assumed you thrown into Azkaban or lost completely!” “Quiet,” he said with vehemence, “Do you have any idea what I’ve been through? How I’ve suffered?!” “Severus…” Lucius swallowed, “Please! Please allow me to explain!” “Your sister in-law and her cronies committed unspeakable offenses… The likes of which should never be witnessed or bestowed upon anyone. Did you know?” “No!” he cried, “I only knew that they had been tipped off- That the Dark Lord had passed Bella the information with the intent of making an example of their repeated refusals to him… And of finding the location of their son.” “An innocent child to be sent to the slaughter!” he roared. Flinching, “It was necessary… The Dark Lord- “ “They tortured and murdered an infant’s parents in order to find the location of said child, and then murder him too!” he interrupted, “Do not make excuses for the Dark Lord’s unnecessary evil… It was cruelty of the darkest kind, and there is no explanation that you could ever give that will ever explain why such evil occurred… Why so many people had to die as a result of his wicked plans.” “It was all for- “ “Do not tell me it was for the greater good!” he shouted, pressing the tip of his wand hard into the throat of his once friend, “Have you never feared for your own son, Lucius? Have you ever considered what devastation you might feel if you and Narcissa were robbed of Draco? The roles very easily could have been reversed, and I dare you to tell me that you would stand by and give up the life of your innocent child without a second thought…! Or are you too far gone as well? Has his poisonous raving diluted your common sense and judgment?” it took every ounce of self-restraint to hold back the anger that threatened to lose itself on the wizard before him, “She stole more than just lives aligned with the Order that night… She stole far more than you could ever imagine- ! Count yourself lucky to have not been on the other side of such evil, for I dare you to have faced the pain that I have; dare you to comprehend what it feels like when holding the woman you love in your arms, and knowing that the child she was carrying is no more because of an act of senseless cruelty.” “Lucius?!” The sudden cry of Narcissa Malfoy sent both men reeling with surprise. When Severus turned to face her, he was standing stark-straight, at full height, his identity plain in the close-proximity that they shared. For how long she had been standing there and listening to them, he had no idea, but there were the tell-tale tracks of tears upon her face, and the glossiness of those still unshed within her eyes. She wore a white nightgown with deep emerald green housecoat overtop for modesty, her two-toned blonde and dark brown hair hanging loose and to the side. In her arms she held her sleeping son- A boy nearing his first birthday. She was unarmed, her wand remaining elsewhere in the vast expanse of the house, her arms trembling from the sight before her, though protectively pressing the silvery-blonde child to her breast. “Run, Narcissa!” Lucius shouted, “You must call for help!” Her eyes darted with concern to her husband, though she remained glued to the spot in which she stood, her attention shifting to Severus instead, “Merlin save us all,” she managed in a whisper, “What did Bella do?” Stunned by her surprise presence, Severus found himself at a loss for words, diverting his eyes from her and to the wand held tightly in his hand. “Severus,” she continued, “I cannot even imagine, nor can I offer you anything worthy of insight or apology for my sister’s actions…” she placed a hand in a gesture of comfort upon his elbow, “Please help us understand; please allow us to help you.” “And how do I know that one of you will not betray me immediately to the Dark Lord?” he asked her, “Give me one reason why I should trust you after everything that’s happened?” “Hold out your arms…” “Narcissa, what are you-? NO!” Lucius objected. “Enough, Lucius!” she frowned, “We have never been given a reason to question Severus’ friendship to us, and I will not question his character now.” She turned back to the dark-haired wizard before her, waiting for him to heed her request. Severus swallowed, and then held his arms out as requested. Though he had sensed her intent, it did nothing to cull the sensation of once again holding a child in his arms. The last time he had held an infant it had been little Neville, when staying at the home of Frank Longbottom’s parents. He had finally given in to the possibility of becoming a father himself one day, desiring nothing more than sharing his life with Lily, and creating life with her. It had been a possibility he long considered only a fantasy, and when finally made reality, it had been snatched away in an unforgettable act of cruelty. But this, this was something unfathomable. When considering all possibilities for the outcomes of the evening’s interrogation, he had not once thought about one pertaining to Narcissa and her son catching him at his questioning. If he had been completely honest, he did not know himself how everything would turn out, but the emotions which overcame him at the feeling of holding the innocent child in his arms was at once overwhelming. Narcissa watched silently, smiling as the boy shifted in Severus’ arms. It was with a flick of his wand that Severus released Lucius from the jinx, lowering him to the ground where he sat grumbling and rubbing his temples from the pressure of added blood rushing to his head. “What can we do?” Narcissa asked after her husband had once again rose to his feet, “How can we help you?” “This is suicide, Narcissa!” “Lucius,” she sighed, “You know as well as I do that the numbers behind the Dark Lord are dwindling. It’s no secret, and it’s no lie! Our odds are stacked, and it may be time to consider other possibilities- “ “Listen to what you’re saying, woman!” he shouted, “We have given everything to You-Know-Who! We have allowed him in our home, we have followed through with his plans blindly, and we now stand here with a traitor in our midst, and you’re actually telling me that you believe in everything that he says!” “And you don’t?” “Your sister- “ “Bella was my sister, yes,” Narcissa interrupted, “But she was also capable of cruelty beyond my comprehension. She was always frightening, and always explosive in her beliefs… It does not surprise me that she would commit something of such unspeakable senselessness, but I had held hope that she would not. Does that make me a monster as well? Hoping that my own sister would not prove herself willing to offer the deaths of innocents on a silver platter to a man who claimed it was for the greater good? Lucius, this is madness!” Severus passed a sleeping Draco back into his mother’s arms, turning to his once closest friend, “Listen to her! Lucius, there is still time… Do it for your wife and son if not for yourself.” “What did you come here for?” he managed to ask, though clearly flustered. “Do you recall the bound leather book that the Dark Lord often kept close at hand? Do you know if he took it with him when accompanied by Rossier and Wilkes to Little Hangleton?” “Have you been spying on me?!” “Would you expect anything else?” Narcissa smirked, “Severus has always been a champion at his tasks for the Dark Lord.” Lowering her voice and speaking more to her sleeping son, “Perhaps that’s why he was often considered the favorite…” Lucius frowned at his wife, “I know of the book; why do you seek it?” “It’s a long story,” Severus stated, clearly unwilling to add any further information. “Try me.” “Lucius!” Narcissa snapped, “Enough is enough.” “Damn it, woman…” he growled, “I have it here,” he stated, and turned to the chair he had been sitting in upon Severus’ arrival, opening the drawer to a side table nestled close, and extracting the brown leather bound book. Severus stared at the object held in the silvery-blonde wizard’s hand, immediately filled with a mixture of both relief and nervousness, “Do you trust me.” Lucius laughed, shaking his head with incredulity. “What is it?” Narcissa questioned. “A piece of very dark magic that must be destroyed,” Severus told her, eyes never leaving the book. “Coming back from the dead to remove the favored objects of your once Master,” Lucius sneered, “How noble.” “Is there somewhere you can go?” Severus asked Narcissa, ignoring the mockery of her husband. “Umm…” she thought, “It’s been years, though I suspect Andromeda and Ted would gladly take us in for a time.” “The blood-traitor?!” “She was always the most open-minded and forgiving of the three of us,” Narcissa continued, glaring at Lucius, “Though there has been much left unsaid between us, it may prove the medicine necessary to heal old wounds.” “And if the Dark Lord finds out?!” “Lucius Malfoy, will you listen to me?!” she shouted, “What is more important to you, your family, or the beliefs you once shared with a righteous and archaic man? Listen to yourself! Would you risk your own life? The lives of your wife and son for a cause destined for defeat?! He’s killing children! Your son could very well have been one of many to face such a fate, and he could still… How would you fare when faced with the horrors that Severus was forced to witness? Would you deny seeking vengeance for mine and Draco’s deaths? Open your eyes!” It was at her words that the proud Pure-blood wizard finally caved in. Though stubborn, and resentful at being proven wrong, he stepped forward and passed the object to Severus, moving to his wife with a protective arm around her shoulders. “Do as you must.” “Hurry to Andromeda,” Severus told them, “Take all in your service, but know that you will be unable to return to this place for threat to your safety. I do not know how long it will take until this war is over, but you have taken great strides in helping end it today.” “Severus- “ Narcissa began, just prior to their departure, “Be well. I hope to see you again when all of this madness is over.” “Take care of your son,” he told her, nodding to his once friend. “I don’t claim to agree with you, or understand your sudden change of tune,” Lucius told him, “But I am indebted to your kindness in sparing me… In allowing us to live despite the choices we have made.” They shook hands before vanishing into the night, with Severus returning to the interior of the grand house. He returned to the room where their altercation had taken place, where the Dark Lord had once plotted and planned all of his evil schemes. On the bare stone floor, he placed the diary- The object he had sought; that he knew he must destroy. He had not been able to fetch the sword used on the other occasions, having left in such haste, and electing to keep his plans a secret if anything had gone awry. It would have to be Fiendfyre… There was no other option. The incantation was complex, though he knew himself capable. The fire billowed from the tip of his wand, alighting the diary like kindling as it shrieked as though alive from the burning flames inflicted upon it. With a flick of his wand, the flame left his wand, transforming into a senseless shape at first, and then developing into a frightful serpent. Hideous and immense, towering high overhead and filling the cavernous space, the Basilisk constructed of molten flame encircles and devoured everything in sight- Everything it could reach. A blood-like substance poured from the singed book upon the floor, the pages blackening and crumbling into ash and soot. It was then that he knew the horcrux to be destroyed, and then that he relinquished control over the curse he had cast, racing from the fiery maze of the Malfoy Manor, and out into the cool night air. Turning on his heel, he watched at first one, then two, three, four, five windows shattered upon the exterior of the mansion; shards of glass raining down into the yard below, the yellow and orange flames licking tirelessly within the confines of the house, the red eyes of the blazing Basilisk alight with unseeing dark magic. Severus Aparated from the scene in that moment, leaving the fiery wreckage behind. =============================================================================== The sun was dawning as Severus reached the cottage by the sea. He removed his cloak on the doorstep, slipping into the house with as much silence as he could muster, knowing that Lily would likely still be fast asleep. He was sore and tired, longing to find himself the rest of a familiar bed and the warmth of the woman he loved. Entering the bedroom, he found her nestled in the blankets, laying upon her stomach, her auburn curls strung across the pillows in a deep and peaceful slumber. He undressed, staring at her for a long moment before getting into the bed, relishing in the sight of her, the knowledge that he would be blessed to spend yet another day in her arms. He breathed deeply, eyes closing as his head hit the pillow, and was greeted with the familiar and comforting press of Lily’s body against him. “You came back,” she told him sleepily. He kissed her softly on the mouth, “I promised I would.” Chapter End Notes I am a huge believer that Narcissa Malfoy is an underestimated and undervalued character when it comes to her potential. If there is one thing undeniable, it's her love for her son, and I think that if anyone was able to see reasoning and understanding in such an explanation as Sev's, it would be her. Lucius may be a total prick at times, but I don't think there's any question in regards to his devotion for Narcissa, and the fact that he would follow her blindly if she said "Enough is enough." (At least in my story- Haha). But seriously, when she hands baby Draco to Sev as a sign of trust... To me that was just super powerful in her beliefs of right from wrong. We had yet to see Narcissa since the birth of her son, so I am glad she could be a breath of fresh air that this story really deserved. Everyone can make fun of me all you want, but the song choice always pulls at my heartstrings, and helped influence the opening scene of this chapter tremendously: When_I_Look_At_You_-_Miley_Cyrus ***** Hufflepuff's Heir ***** Chapter Summary On Neville's first birthday, Severus and Lily find their last Horocrux somehow hiding in plain sight. Unfortunately, not everything is as it seems. Chapter Notes Apologies for my delay in posting... It's been a bit crazy with Christmas preparations and all that. :P Also, please proceed with caution if you have any triggers. Graphic descriptions of violence in this chapter- Please know your own limitations. I don't want anyone to feel uncomfortable. See the end of the chapter for more notes “You may not be her first, her last, or her only. She loved before she may love again. But if she loves you now, what else matters? Hold onto her and give her the most you can. She may not be thinking about you every second of the day, but she will give you a part of her that she knows you can break- Her heart.” -Bob Marley [badger] July_of_1981 “Lily-? What is it?” The occasion of Neville’s first birthday had been a welcome distraction for all members of the Order of the Phoenix. Not only had it been an opportunity for all to play their respects to their lost comrades, Frank and Alice, but also a means to honor them through the acknowledgement of their child who had managed to survive. The sacrifice that Neville’s parents had made was not something that went unnoticed when it came to their friends and associates, and though time had managed to make their absence an easier pain to bear, they were still missed terribly. Augusta and Robert Longbottom, Frank’s parents, had taken up the responsibility of raising their infant grandson, vowing that he would be raised just as his own father had been, and that when the time was appropriate, and the boy was much older, he would learn the details surrounding their deaths. When they had learned of Lily’s miraculous survival on that fateful night, Augusta and Robert had found themselves immensely relieved. There had already been so much pain and suffering, death and sorrow when it came to the war that Voldemort was waging… The survival of anyone was a welcome change, and when it came to someone who had been so close to both their son and daughter in-law, as well as the godmother of their only grandchild, they had found it a chance for hope. With their hearts already so heavy with the loss of Frank and Alice, they were able to see a light at the end of the tunnel when it came to Lily and Severus’ continued perseverance. In time they had managed a correspondence of sorts, and though it was never stated explicitly, they knew that Neville would never be without his parent’s memory when it came to stories and details that only someone their own age and close to them as a friend could relay. The birthday location was decided upon as the home of Robert and Augusta, the Fidelius Charm an obvious desirable feature, as well as the grand scale of their family home when it came to comfortably housing all of the attending members. Lily and Severus had arrived early, longing to spend a little one-on- one time with the little boy that had not seen for months. How he had grown! How he had begun to truly resemble his mother and father. Though unsteady, he was managing to take steps, clinging tightly to their fingers as he navigated the floors, learning how best to manage his balance. As much as it filled her heart with joy to be reunited with the little wizard, it also filled her heart with a deep sadness for the thought of what Alice and Frank were missing. They would have loved to see him grow, to see him transform into the person that he would become… And it had all been so cruelly and unfairly stolen away from them. Slipping away for a brief reprieve, Severus and Lily had come to the den of the old house, quietly reveling in their memories, and allowing the sorrow of their dear friend’s passing to become a bit more manageable before proceeding to help Augusta ready the house for the festivities that were soon to come. It had taken Severus completely be surprise when he turned to find Lily staring as though she had seen a ghost, the blood having drained from her face, her almond-shaped green eyes wide. “Lily- What is it?” he repeated. “There,” she managed, her voice scarcely a whisper, pointing to the curio cabinet, her eyes barely blinking, unwavering in their stare. Severus followed the line of her extended finger to the various antiques and knick-knacks within. After some initial confusion, he caught sight of the precise object which had captured her attention so completely: A golden chalice emblazoned with the heraldic banner of Hufflepuff; the noble badger clear as day upon its surface. “How-?” she managed. “You both look as though you’ve seen a ghost,” Augusta Longbottom stated, entering the room, her hands upon her hips. “Ma’am,” Severus nodded politely, “It’s just… Well, that cup- “ She smiled kindly, her stare meeting the intriguing object with a proudness coming over her features, “A family heirloom… I inherited it from my mother after- Well… It’s been a long time now.” Lily could sense the sadness in the woman, though was unable to stop the question, which came out more matter-of-factly than she had intended, “Your mother was Hepzibah Smith?” Neville’s grandmother did not inquire as to how Lily might have learned such information, though she turned and nodded, “A horrible series of events really… I never imagined tragedy to strike a second time, though it seems as though I may have been dealt a cruel hand. Then again, I must always remember- As we all should, that we are never given too much to handle, no matter how dark and consuming the events might be. Frank and Alice would not want us to remain in mourning forever because of their deaths- No, they would want us to be strong and to find a reason to live on in a world that they fought for us to have. My mother was much the same way… She would not wish me to mourn her after so many years gone.” “Then it’s true about the cup-?” Severus pressed. “Though the name ‘Hufflepuff’ was lost many generations back, it is true,” Augusta smiled, “With my mother’s death, I became the final member of our line, though was lucky enough to pass the famous lineage on to Frank- Who in turn has, of course, given it to Neville. He is now the heir of Helga Hufflepuff, even though he doesn’t share in her famous name.” “I don’t mean to seem odd in my questions,” Lily began, “Nor insensitive in any regards, but how was it that you discovered the cup after your mother’s death? I only inquire, because of an assignment that Dumbledore has given Sev and myself.” “What assignment?” “One pertaining to each of the well-known objects from the famous founders of Hogwarts,” Severus replied, “As surprising as it might seem, the cup of Helga Hufflepuff has been the one hardest for us to track down; all details ending with the suspicious events of 1961.” “When Hokey poisoned my mother’s cocoa?” Augusta frowned, “The House-elf readily admitted her guilt. The cup was within the house under lock and- “ She trailed off, her brow furrowing with deep lines, her eyes slowly moving to look at both Lily and Severus with a sudden realization, hinted with concern. “What is it?” Lily asked her. “It’s just that,” she said pointedly “Mother always kept the objects in that house under lock and key… Especially anything of extreme value.” “Not at Gringotts?” Severus posed. She shook her head, bemused, “She hated Goblins… ‘Sneaky bunch,’ she’d always say… No, my mother always kept everything that she could in that old house, and oddly enough, I never thought about how strange it was to find the cup sitting out in the open after coming to set everything in order. It was upon the coffee table in the sitting room-! Not far from the very teacup that help the poisonous residue that had killed her. Why would Hokey just leave it out in the open? Now you have me thinking…” “The House-elf was not the one at fault for Hepzibah Smith’s murder,” the voice of Albus Dumbledore suddenly said evenly, causing the three to turn with equal looks of surprise at his silent and unexpected arrival. “Regardless,” Augusta Longbottom continued, attempting to hide her surprise at the elder wizard’s presence, “It’s been twenty years since she’s passed on, the circumstances hardly matter much anymore.” “Ah, but that’s where you’re quite wrong, Augusta,” the current Headmaster at Hogwarts said pointedly, “Sometimes the devil is very much in the details, and this case would be one quite befitting of such a phrase… Hokey did not murder your mother.” “If she did not, then may I ask who did?” “But of course,” he replied, blue eyes twinkling behind his half-moon spectacles, “It was a young man by the name of Tom Riddle.” Lily closed her eyes and breathed a deep breath: She had been right. “What-? Who?” Augusta questioned, not having expected such a truthful response that provided the detail of the perpetrators name. Severus swallowed, “The Dark Lord.” Augusta stared at the man who had come to be such a close friend to her son and daughter in-law with shock and incredulity, turning back the man with the long white beard, “How could it be?! Albus, what would such a man have wanted with my Mum?” “Hepzibah was a great many things, as I remember her,” he said gently, “Larger than life personality in such a small woman of stature… And yet she was very boastful when it came to her collectibles; wealth long allowing for her to procure many coveted and ancient objects well renowned in our world. This cup, the relic of your ancestor, the founder Helga Hufflepuff, is not just any antique to bat an eye at.” Augusta shook her head, “Foolish…” “She had no way of knowing whom she was dealing with,” the elder man told her, lightly pressing a hand to her shoulder in a gesture he hoped would symbolize his sympathy, “We all make mistakes, it was an unfortunate error that Hepzibah was misled by such a creature as You-Know-Who.” “What does it all mean?” “For beginners, that an innocent was framed,” he stated matter-of-factly, “However the time to exonerate Hokey has long passed with her death occurring a few years after that Hepzibah.” “Do you feel it?” Severus asked Lily suddenly, eyes narrowing at the object they had long sought. She nodded, swallowing hard. “Feel what?!” Augusta inquired shrilly, eyes filling with fright, “This is madness! We’re to have the other guests arriving soon-! Where’s Robert?” “Augusta,” Dumbledore said calmly, voice showing no sign of distress, “Trust that your family heirloom will remain in your possession, and that nothing is wrong. Severus, Lily, and I have something that we must deal with… But allow me to assure you, that the golden chalice is the key to the Dark Lord’s demise.” “I don’t understand,” she whispered, eyes meeting each of the three in turn. “None of us do fully,” he smiled, “Now, greet your guests, my dear… We will meet you shortly.” Clearly Augusta Longbottom was eager to remove herself from the room, though her eyes continued to reflect a certain fright and curiosity as the door closed behind her. “Did you know-?” Lily questioned the aged wizard when they were very much alone. “I promise that I am quite as shocked at the sudden appearance of our seemingly final horcrux as the both of you,” Albus Dumbledore told her, “Luckily, I always travel prepared…” There was a gleam of metallic in the dimness of the room, and then the dark sparkle of gemstones- The Sword of Godric Gryffindor. “Let us not waste another moment,” he told his two former pupils, “I presume you will have no objection if I am to eliminate this final object?” Neither Lily or Severus offered a word of objection, and their former Headmaster acted swiftly and firmly landed the tip of the Goblin-made sword into the golden cup bearing the crest of the badger. There was a telltale ‘hiss,’ smoke emitting from the place where silver and gold met, followed by the seeping of think red-black fluid. It had been done. And then there was only the sound of chatter beyond the door; other members of the Order of the Phoenix having arrived for the festivities surrounding Neville Longbottom’s first birthday. None knew of the immensely evil artifact hiding so close to all of them- An object that had very much been hiding in plain sight all along. Albus Dumbledore nodded to Lily and Severus in turn, bending gracefully and picking up the cup; he juggled it briefly, “Hot.” None of them knew precisely what their next step would be, but for the moment, a slowly growing sense of accomplishment began to set in between them. They had done it! Soon Voldemort would be no more. The aged wizard slipped the Gryffindor Sword out of sight into his robes, and then gestured that the three of them join the party. Lily took Severus’ arm, as if on cue, and the three made their way to join the other guests. Laughter and upbeat conversation circled through the grand house, little Neville Longbottom being passed from guest to guest with smiles and ample attention. He was clearly enjoying it. Though a secret to their colleagues, there was a certain lightness that had permeated both Lily and Severus from deep within- A true sense of hope that the end was finally nearer than it had ever been before. Perhaps Voldemort would be dead by the end of the year? Or was that too much to hope for too soon? Regardless, there was a difference in the both of them, and their radiance was something not overlooked, but rather infectious by those surrounding them for such a joyous birthday celebration. With a suddenness not immediately noticed by the surrounding festivities, a sparling silver began to appear in their midst. A moment later it took shape, swirling into the form of a fox, reaching the center of their festivities and sending everyone into an immediate silence. “Kingsley! The Ministry is falling… The Death Eaters have attacked! We need everyone capable of fighting at once!” “Who was that?” a voice questioned, as soon as the Patronus had vanished. “Dedalus Diggle,” Kinglsey responded, “He stayed behind knowing that I would want a report the instance something unusual happened… Which it seems has. We must go at once!” As everyone began milling about in a chaos of sorts, Dumbledore found Lily, pulling her aside from the hurried actions of the other members of the Order of the Phoenix, pressing her hand tightly with his, “You must give this to Neville… You must allow him to wear it at all costs.” “But- “ “Promise me, Lily!” he said with an urgency she was unfamiliar with, his eyes alive with urgency, “You will remain here… He will be safe with you. Tell me you understand.” “I understand.” “And you will give that to Neville- “ “At once,” she promised. “Thank you,” he told her, “I will return with the others as soon as we can.” Severus was readying himself with the others across the room, when he noticed Lily and his former Headmaster enraptured in a secret and final conversation. He paused, crossing the room to them, though the moment had passed. “Lily is staying here,” Dumbledore told him, “As Neville was the object of You- Know-Who’s violence, as well as the subject of the Prophecy, I cannot have us leave him unprotected.” “Then I will stay as well.” There was no arguing the point, it was a final answer. Albus Dumbledore nodded, his face neither conveying approval or displeasure at the assertion of the former Slytherin. Lily was on the move at once, picking up Neville from his new pile of toys- Gifts for his first birthday. She opened her hand to reveal a square onyx stone set into a thin gold chain- The stone lightly etched with markings… Markings that seemed familiar. She didn’t have time to think about that now. And despite the strangeness of her former Headmaster’s request, she slipped the necklace around the little boy’s neck, all evidence of it hiding behind the clothing he wore. As the final witches and wizards abandoned the once festivities of the immense house belonging to Augusta and Robert Longbottom, a peculiar silence fell over the place. Augusta and Robert began cleaning up, and Severus found himself itching with an uncomfortable certainty as Lily went up the stairs to the nursery to put Neville down for a nap. The events at the Ministry were on all of their minds, a curiosity that plagued them- The unknown and perils of the battle that waged calling to them from afar. But they had a job to do. Orders from Albus Dumbledore were not meant to be challenged, and all of them knew better than slipping away to the source of the action. Neville was their priority. Lily had only just reached the bottom of the stairs when an explosion blew the door of the house clean off its hinges. She glanced in the direction of the sound, green eyes widening. It was just as the events on All Hallow’s Eve had begun, and she would not allow for a repeat. She raced back up the staircase, the looming sense of dread burning alive inside of her, her heart pounding with blood and adrenaline, her very veins on fire, and her lungs sucking in air as fast as she could breathe it. She ran- Ran faster than she ever ran before, her ears buzzing, though numb to the violence that was almost certainly underway on the level beneath her. She ran down the hallway, her fiery auburn curls flying behind her, slamming into the doorjamb as she entered the nursery and pulled Neville tightly into her arms. Severus had heard the thunderous crash at the same instant that Lily had, his wand instantly in hand, and raced after her, close on her heels, sweat falling cold on his brow and between his shoulder blades; in anticipation of the worst. He had entered the nursery only moments after she had, the look in her eyes one of terror, the little child looking about with his large brown eyes- Eyes so like those of his mother’s. Screams rang through the lower story of the house, obviously belonging to Augusta and Robert Longbottom, though extinguishing just as quickly as they shrieked through the house. Were they dead? What was happening? When the tall and pale figure emerged into the doorway of the room occupied by the three remaining inhabitants of the house, the air went cold, the breaths leaving their lungs in painful bursts. When Lily’s green eyes locked with the crimson slits, the snakelike features of the terrifying and evil being before her, she imagined a scream reverberating in an echo through the wreckage of the house, the horror of his sight eliciting a primal fear that was unlike anything she had ever before known. Neville began fussing and crying at once, pressing himself to Lily, his pudgy arms clinging to her as crocodile-tears glistened in his eyes and fell in heavy droplets down his innocent face. “Mama!” Her heart both broke and filled with a deep love she had never before thought imaginable at the words cried from the beautiful child she held in her arms. The son of her best friends killed at the hands of cronies hailing to the monstrous creature that stood before them- A man once known as Tom Riddle, who had transformed himself into something beyond former appearances, and with the level of evil and depravity never before dreamed capable in the Wizarding World. Severus pushed them behind him, standing between the woman he had loved since a child of nine, and the innocent baby she had vowed to protect. He stood sneering at his former Master, the man he had once pledged his life to, his loyalty and faith… All of which had been horribly misplaced, and yet redeemable to those understanding that he longed for nothing more than a penance for former misdeeds and a new life- A second chance. “Severus Snape.” “Tom Riddle.” The dark wizard did not flinch at the usage of his once-name, though twirled his pale wand deftly in his long fingers, his face conveying nothing except displeasure, “A name I gladly removed myself from.” “How-?” “Did I manage to overcome a Fidelius Charm?” the Dark Lord smirked, “With ease. Do you think me such a fool as to not keep tabs on the locations I sought to hide relics most precious to me?” he laughed at the look of surprise that fluttered across his former lieutenant’s face, the sound both shrill and blood chilling, “Oh yes, Severus… I know.” “You don’t deny it?” Lily heard herself ask, rocking the child in her arms. “Oh Mudblood, why would I?” he bemused, “I made quite a few, though I am sure most remain. Even with Dumbledore’s assistance, I do not suspect anyone truly capable of finding all my secrets. You have destroyed this one… Perhaps another, but not all.” “Don’t call her that,” Severus seethed, his wand pointed at his once Master. “Forgive me,” the dark wizard said with a tip of his head, “I forget that you may call her such, though it is a sin of unspeakable wickedness for anyone else to.” “I warn you- “ The laughter sounded again through the closeness of their proximity, continuing to fill Lily with a building unease, “You. Warn. Me? Do not push your luck, Severus… I consider myself a patient man, though you have already proven yourself far more trouble than you are worth.” “You know nothing!” “Ah, but I know everything,” he sneered, “I have long seen our similarities, and welcomed them. I have entrusted you with much in the years we spent together… The years you performed bravely and dutifully in my service. Have you told her of your past deeds? Of the Muggles and Mudbloods that you helped slaughter, that you tortured in much the same way as that child’s parents? You orchestrated such deeds when I needed them to be performed as a symbolic genocide of the unworthy. You never questioned such tasks, always seeing them through to completion and leaving no survivors in the wake. I ask you for meat on a platter and you would ask me ‘medium or well done?’” “LIAR!” Lily shouted. “Am I?” the Dark Lord posed, “Let us hear what your lover has to say.” “You used us,” Severus said through gritted teeth, “You hand-picked and selected those of us coming from lives just as you did. You knew we sought recognition and praise, and you used our talents to your benefit so that you might change the world so that it reflected something better fitting of your immoral ideals. We followed you blindly and without question because you gave us what we had so long desired! And even that was false! All of lies… And we committed monstrous acts of violence at your behest because of the power you held over us, the vile and disgusting evil that you poisoned every one of us with!” “You betrayed me as no one else has.” “Because I saw the foulness of my life… The sins I had committed blindly when devoid of any hope for a family that loved me, a woman who would be able to see through my mistakes and horrors- “ “This Mudblood?” “DON’T CALL HER THAT!” Lily felt a chill crawl up the length of her spine, the déjà vu of Severus’ cries paralleling those which she had once shouted at James and the Marauders when they attended Hogwarts… A time when their roles had been very much reversed. “Forget her,” Voldemort told him, “If it is female company that you seek, I can promise a Pure-blood to fit your needs. Your treachery can be forgiven so long as you step aside… Do not get in my way, Severus.” “You would kill an innocent child?” Lily asked, “Is there any end to your depravity? All because of some vision that was had-? Are you so afraid?!” “HOW DARE YOU SPEAK TO ME IN SUCH A MANNER, MUDBLOOD!” he roared, wand pointed at the ready. “He’s a baby! she shouted, “He’s alone in the world now because you ordered his parents murdered! A Pure-blooded child that you would normally protect and revel in the unspoiled blood which runs through his veins, and yet you seek to remove him from the world! “SHUT UP!” “You’re afraid, I can see it in your eyes- “ “QUIET, MUDBLOOD!” “Deep down inside you know that it’s wrong…” “SILENCE!” “You made an orphan of him!” she yelled, tears streaming from her eyes, “He’s an innocent child, and you robbed him of people who loved him and wanted him!” “You will silence her, or I will be forced to…” Voldemort seethed to Severus, clearly nearing the end of his patience. “You have made Neville into something not unlike yourself,” she breathed, “But he will not face the cruelties you were subjected to. He will be raised with love and never questioning his want or place in the world. You will not hurt him. You will not rob this world of an innocent because of your own insecurities and fears. I won’t let you.” “You won’t let me?!” Severus turned to look at her for the briefest of moments, and then back at the foreboding and frightening creature before him. With a silent utterance, and flourish of his wand, Severus stiffened in surprise, his wand falling from his fingertips and clattering upon the nursery floor. He took a staggering step forward, and then crashed down onto his knees. “Sev-?!” Lily managed, eyes wide. “We will see how defiant you are when not able to hide behind the strength of my former servant,” Voldemort told her, his words cold, his thin lips curving into a frightening smile- The thing of nightmares. Severus reached up to his neck in a jerking motion scarcely befitting that of his normal fluid movements, scarlet blood slipping between his grasping fingers, his hands covered in the lifeblood pouring from the deep laceration that cut him ear-to-ear. He fell forward with a deafening thud. “SEV?! NO!!!" Lily screamed; looking at Voldemort, "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!” “An unfortunate conclusion for betrayal that was not easily forgiven,” Voldemort smirked, “He wouldn’t have survived this encounter anyways- Of that I can assure you. But enough of this! The two of you have already wasted enough of my valuable time with your endless chatter and distractions. Give me the child.” Lily felt as though her heart was being ripped from her chest, and yet deep inside something else bloomed and grew; something she was without words to describe, but which presented itself at first with merely a whisper, slowly growing to a louder and louder presence within her very soul. “Give. Me. The. Child.” “No.” “AVADA KEVADRA!” The green light shot forth from the depraved wizard’s wand, hitting Neville square in the chest and bouncing off of him. By all accounts known the killing curse should have left the one-year-old dead instantly, and yet he remained very much alive and breathing in Lily’s arms. The surprise and utter bewilderment of such an action was not lost to the Dark Lord as well, and for the first time Lily was able to detect the visible signs of fright upon the abomination’s face. “Neville, we love you.” “We are so proud of you.” The sound of their familiar voices startled Lily at once. Frank and Alice? At once their ghostly images appeared in the room, standing beside the toppled figure of Severus Snape, and separating Lily and Neville from Lord Voldemort. “What magic-?” the dark wizard managed, eyes darting with curiosity and horror. “He still clings to life, though barely,” the transparent Frank spoke. “Lily, there’s still time…” Alice told her best friend, smiling at her as she once had done so often. “Thank you for loving him,” Frank smiled. “Promise to love Neville always, and never forget us,” Alice added, “You can still save Severus… There’s still time left.” “He’s dead!” Voldemort shouted. “No,” Lily said, tears still streaming from her eyes, “I don’t believe that he is… But you will be.” Whether the Dark Lord had thought her capable of it, or merely if he had been too slow to react- Distracted by the ghostly appearance of Frank and Alice Longbottom… It was hard to say. But when Lily leveled her wand at the darkest wizard in recent history, and cried the words of the killing curse through the air, she wasn’t certain whether it had been truly audible, or something screamed from the confines of her own mind. With Neville balanced upon her hip, she held her wand steady as the green light erupted from its tip and blasted with a prodigious amount of energy into the creature that stood before her. Voldemort slammed into the wall behind him with a thunderous crash, his eyes wide with terror, his mouth hung open in a silent scream. As the light faded, Lily dropped her wand from trembling fingertips to the floor, the sound small in the ruined surroundings. The Dark Lord was dead, leaning against the wall he had hit, now crumpled into a pile reminiscent of trash upon the floor. Setting Neville back into his crib, she fell to the floor on wobbly legs from the shock of her casting an Unforgiveable Curse- Something she had never thought herself capable of. The visions of Frank and Alice were gone. They had disappeared just as quickly as they had suddenly materialized within the space. It had been good to see them once again; to have heard their words. She had done it. She had somehow managed to rid the world of Lord Voldemort. Crawling across the floor of the nursery that was littered with debris, she reached the crumpled form of Severus, rolling him onto his back, his head in her lap. It was a frightful sight. The blood continued to flow from the deep gash that partially bisected his head from his neck. His hands trembled in their attempt to keep what little blood that remained within him from spilling; skin stained crimson, just like his clothes and the floorboards beneath him. His eyelids fluttered, dark eyelashes flickering over the deep, dark eyes that continued seeing- Though just barely. He gasped, trying to speak, though a crude gurgling was the only sound that issued forth, thick and sticky scarlet blood bubbling at both the laceration and on the corners of his paling lips. He reached for her with one hand, fingertips weak and quivering as they brushed a stray auburn curl behind one ear, though leaving a bloody mark as they lightly grazed her cheek. She held his hand there, the smell of iron strong in the closeness of their proximity, her heart shattering into a thousand tiny pieces as she looked upon the mortally wounded man she had come to love with everything she possessed. He had helped her through so much- He had been there at her side through everything that had transpired, and he had not once shied away from his feelings towards her, or his quest for redemption. They had vowed to begin a life together when everything was over, and Voldemort had seen to ending that in one last act of unspeakable violence and cruelty. It wasn’t supposed to end like this! Not now… Not after they had lost so much- After they had finally found each other, learned to love without limitations, and trust so completely in each other. Not now. Not this. “Lily…” Severus managed. She bit her lip, tears falling from her eyes in relentless waterfalls, “Yes, Sev? I’m here…” “You… Y- You did it.” Lily swallowed hard, “I- I did… But I didn’t- I didn’t do it fast enough!” “No,” he managed, eyes locked upon hers, grimacing in pain, “Y- You did perfectly.” “But I didn’t save you!” “You did so much more,” he told her, a smile ghosting across his trembling lips, “You saved Neville. You didn’t flounder, and y- you ended the evil he was determined to- to bestow upon all of us. Lily, you saved us all.” “I’m not ready…” “To say goodbye?” he coughed, blood flowing anew, “We never are, but I count myself lucky… Lucky to have spent the time I was able to with you. You are my everything- N… N- Never forget it. I found my humanity again b- b- because of you. I found love that I never dreamed possible because of you.” He grimaced, his hand growing weak against her cheek, so much so that she knew it was only because of her holding it there that it remained, “I- I- I love you more than anything.” The sob that came from her throat was one of deepest grief as she bowed her head and pressed his lips to his, “Don’t go… I need you. I love you.” “Be strong, my love…” he struggled, eyes fluttering, “Be… Strong…” The cry that came from Lily was savage in its intensity as she clung to the body of her lover, as she helplessly sobbed and cried with an uncontrollable force. "Come back! NO! No, you can’t! HELP! SOMEONE PLEASE…! PLEASE HELP!” she kissed his mouth, the blood smearing on both his face and her own, “Someone… A- Anyone! Sev… Sev, please!” In the throes of her sadness, she didn’t notice the shadow that had emerged outside of the shattered nursery window, or the crystal tears that mingled with her own as they fell upon the tremendous wound that had been the one successful method in stopping the former Death Eater in his tracks. Lily didn’t notice when the members of the Order of the Phoenix eventually returned to the ruined house belonging to Augusta and Frank Longbottom and found her in the horrific scene of the nursery clutching the body of Severus Snape with a crying infant Neville Longbottom sitting unscathed in his crib. She certainly didn’t notice as a second scarlet plume fell into the crib with the child that had been prophesized to be the one- The one capable of vanquishing the Dark Lord. A brilliant plume that was the very twin of which had been gifted to the child upon the day of his birth. Chapter End Notes A cliff-hanger, I know. ;) But I promised all of you a happy ending, and I vow that the final chapter will prove just that. Everything has been planned out for a long time now, and I am just so excited to see how everyone receives the ending! I have obviously altered the use of the Resurrection Stone as befitting my needs. As always, thank you all so much for your comments, kudos, support- EVERYTHING! It really means a lot... More than I can say. Song: Purify_-_Lacuna_Coil ***** Epilogue ♡ ***** Chapter Summary Life after the end of Voldemort's reign of terror. Chapter Notes There is a portion of this third chapter taken directly from the brilliant J. K. Rowling in her seventh book, Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows. See the end of the chapter for more notes “Someone who thinks death is the scariest thing doesn’t know a thing about life.” -Sue Monk Kidd [love] Five_years_later... For the first time in weeks, the rain subsided. Though the sun still struggled to make a full appearance, the clouds drifting by with regularity, there were moments when it did manage to peek out for a few fleeting moments. All was quiet- It had been ever since the downfall of Lord Voldemort. The Ministry of Magic had remained standing, and in the aftermath of the fear and evil that so many had lived in during the Dark Lord’s reign of terror, they reworked many policies and laws surrounding blood statuses. Sorting magical persons based on bloodlines had been decreed an archaic method of determining worth within the Wizarding World, and something that all were quite ready to be done with. Though it was suspected that the Sacred Twenty-Eight would likely continue in their beliefs, the steps had been taken towards presenting a community where no one would again fear for their lives and safety because of being Muggle-born or Half-blooded. The changes had not come overnight, but when they had finally been introduced, everyone had recognized it as a move towards redemption that all sides needed in order to heal fully. Tom Riddle, the man who was born an orphan, and transformed into the darkest wizard in recent history, had been disposed of unceremoniously by the Auror Department as instructed by the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. The rumor had been that his heart was just as black in reality, as it had been through the horrendous acts he committed. Those who had remained loyal until the end, savagely slaughtering innocents based upon his supremacist dogma had been dealt with severely and imprisoned in Azkaban. Peter Pettigrew had been one of them. It was later told by Kingsley Shacklebolt, that the bumbling fool quaked with fear as he was led to his cell within the fortress- The wind and seas violently turbulent in their fervor. The once Marauder had caught a glimpse of his former friend, and the leader of their teenaged band of mischief makers: James Potter. Yet when he called out to the dark-haired man who wore the wire-rimmed glasses, he was met with an unseeing stare and the utter feeling of hopelessness. No one who entered Azkaban was able to keep up their spirits for long… The Dementors saw to that in every regard. The sun slipped free of the clouds, its rays casting a glow on the figure draped in a heavy knit blanket, seated upon the worn deck of the little cottage positioned on England’s western coastline. She closed her almond-shaped green eyes at the feel of warmth upon her skin, her freckles illuminated in the sunlight, her long auburn hair alight in surroundings still holding the gray from the rainstorms that lingered as the seasons began to change. She breathed deeply, the scent of the sea, salt, and sand fresh in the air. It was quiet- Peacefully so; just the rhythmic crashing of the waves upon the shore, and the occasional call of a gull. Though the nightmares and dark memories had faded in the time since the horrors that she had faced during the rise of Voldemort, they occasionally slipped back into her psyche when she least expected it. In those moments she still found them overwhelming, and so powerful that it was as though they had only just occurred. It could send her reeling before she was able to remember that those days were gone… She had somehow survived. She had been the one to cast the final spell that ended Tom Riddle. And yet in those quiet moments when she least expected it, she would recall the devastation that she felt when holding Severus in her arms and begging him not to go; not to leave her. “Be strong, my love… Be… Strong…” Just when her emotions threatened to consume her, the memory of that night seeming once again so fresh- So recent in her mind… Laughter. It was the sound of purity, new life, and innocence. Opening her eyes, Lily rose to her feet, her slender fingers resting upon the worn wooden railing, her curls lightly swaying in the breeze. She looked out towards the water; the direction the sound had come from. Squinting, she slowly was able to make out a shape in the distance. She waited, knowing it was only a matter of time until it came closer. The man was wearing black pants with a grey and green tartan shirt, a black cloak hanging open from his shoulders against the slight chill to the air. His jet-black hair was pulled back, a trimmed black beard adorning his face. He was laughing, quickly side-stepping and dodging through the sand- Two little girls at his feet. The elder one shrieked in laughter as he caught her suddenly, tossing her into the air playfully, her long straight auburn hair shining vibrantly in the sunshine. Jumping at their feet the younger one clearly wanted her turn- Her wavy black hair a combination of both her parents looks. Lily watched them play, a smile curving her pink lips- Her fears and dark memories already forgotten with the realization that her future couldn’t have been any brighter, anymore different from those days that had been so full of questioning and fear. She had thought Severus dead as she had held him in the wreckage of Neville’s nursery, her own emotions blinding her to the sudden appearance of Dumbledore’s pet phoenix, Fawkes. The magnificent bird had given her a gift so rare in its presence- It had cried with her. Mingling with her own tears, the great crystal droplets had preserved the man she loved when she was certain that she had felt his life slip away. It wasn’t until her former Headmaster had knelt beside her and held her as a father might his own inconsolable child, that she had heard him speak. “It is good to find you unscathed.” She had been enraged at his words, her eyes bleary with tears that seemed endless, though she had heard Severus gasp before she had been able to level abuses at the elderly wizard for his insensitivity. Lily had pulled away from him in that instance, throwing herself upon her lover, who had coughed from her impact, though embraced her fully. The only remnant of his nearly fatal encounter had been a thin silver scar along the fateful line that Voldemort had cut with magic. A mark showing his sacrifice and bravery- Though he had preferred hiding it with a beard rather than drawing the stares of so many at such a scar. They were coming back, the littlest girl upon her father’s shoulders, the other attempting to walk in stride with him. She held tightly to his hand, though when she saw Lily, she let go and ran at full speed. “Mama! Mama, Daddy let us come with him to the beach!” she cried, reaching Lily and throwing her arms around her. “I see that,” she laughed, kneeling and pressing a kiss to her forehead, “Did you find anything?” She shook her head, dark eyes glittering, “No, but Rosie saw a whale!” “A whale?!” Lily said with eyes wide, rising to her feet and addressing the younger girl who still sat on her father’s shoulders, “Rose, you saw an actual whale?!” The dark-haired little girl giggled, nodding with excitement, “It jumped! I saw it’s tail!” “Did it spray water?” Severus prompted. She nodded, “It did! It did, Mama!” “Violet, tell Mama what you did while Rose was watching the whale,” Severus smiled proudly. “I made shells float!” “With magic?” “Yes!” she squealed, jumping up and down, “I made flowers out of them.” “Oh darling, that’s very good!” Lily beamed, “You’ll be the brightest witch in your class by the time you go to Hogwarts.” “Your mother was,” Severus nodded. “I want to be just like you, Mama!” Violet said, hugging Lily’s legs. She ran her hand lovingly through the silken strands of her daughter’s hair, her eyes finding themselves rested upon the face of the man she loved with all her heart. “I’m going to put them down for a nap,” Severus told her, “I’ll be right back.” “A nap?! No, Daddy!” Rose grumbled, “I want more beach!” “Can’t we play a little while longer?” Violet agreed, “Please…?” “Listen to your father,” Lily told them, pulling her blanket closer, “I don’t want either of you to catch cold.” “A nap for now,” Severus nodded, “We can play again later… With Mama too!” Though the girls seemed satisfied with the circumstances, they still made their displeasure known in regards to napping in general. It took a few moments, but then Severus returned to Lily upon the deck, his arms moving around her as he stood behind her, slouching some so that he was able to rest his head on her shoulder. “What are you thinking about?” “Sometimes my mind just wanders,” she sighed, “The darkness is hard to keep at bay from time to time… The memories- “ “It happens to me too,” he interjected, “You’re not alone.” “I know,” she told him, “And I’m happy,” she turned in his arms to that she could face him, her back pressed to the weathered railing, “I want you to know that I’m so happy, and so grateful for you every day.” He smiled, pressing his lips to hers, his hands slipping beneath the blanket she still held close. “I love you, Sev.” “And I you, Lily.” “Did you ever think that our life would be like this?” she asked him. “No,” he admitted, “I had never imagined that I would be given a second chance in life- An opportunity to show you every day how much that you mean to me and how much I love you. Waking up beside you and falling asleep with you in my arms alone is enough for me to die a happy man. And yet, you have given me two beautiful girls that fill me with pride and happiness that I never dreamed possible… You three are my world- My flowers that bloom with hope and courage alike.” “If I had lost you- “ He kissed her, “I told you that I had a few tricks you had yet to see…” “Sev!” “The dream of what could be was always my fuel to carry on,” he told her, “I promised you that when everything was over our life would truly begin… And here we are.” He paused, “Obviously Fawkes helped quite a bit as well.” “You could say that again...” “Mrs. Snape,” he said lowly, pulling her flush to him, “Do I need to do something to free you of this melancholy?” he nipped at her ear, “Perhaps satiate an inner hunger of sorts?” “I could use a snack,” she winked, “Though I feel like I’m as big as a house already…” His hands slipped down to briefly cup her bottom, before moving over the curve of her belly, “I think you’re beautiful.” “I have a feeling it’s a boy this time,” she told him, nuzzling in close to him, “Things just feel different…” “Boy or another flower, it doesn’t matter to me.” “What would you want to name a boy?” He thought about it for a moment, “Henry.” “We could call him ‘Harry’ for short,” Lily smiled, “I like it.” “Are you happy?” he asked her. “Very,” she whispered, pressing her lips softly to his, her arms moving around his neck. He shifted in his stance, the fullness of her breasts pressed against his chest, an urge of his own becoming more and more apparent by the moment. Lily reached down and pressed her hand to the growing hardness between them, causing a groan to emit from deep within her husband’s throat. The heat of his exhaled breath upon her shoulder caused her skin to prickle with goosebumps instantly, her nipples straining and chafing against her clothing. “I want you,” he told her. “Promise me you’ll never stop?” “How could I?” he replied with seriousness, fingertips slipping through her red curls as he gently caressed her cheek, “You’re my everything… You always have been.” “After all this time?” she smiled, knowing his answer. “Always." Chapter End Notes Well, that's it. The End. Fin. Guys, we made it. Oh my goodness. :):):) I don't think that there are enough words for me to express how much everyone's support has truly meant to me while writing this fic- Through the annoying trolls and the mild cases of Writer's Block... The untimely death of my kitty. It has been an absolute roller coaster of a ride. But I am just as proud of this story as I was of A_Second_Chance. As always, Sev & Lily forever! I hope that you all enjoyed the ride just as much as I did. *** If anyone has any prompt suggestions that they would like to see in the future- Ideas of any kind that they would like to see for Sev and Lily (or other ships), I would be more than happy to see if I can come up with something to run with. If there's something you've never seen and would like to read, just throw an idea my way- There's nothing too bizarre or crazy that is without possibility. :) Final song: Here_I_Am_-_Leona_Lewis Please drop_by_the_archive_and_comment to let the author know if you enjoyed their work!