Chapter 1. Prologue

A summons from Albus had come through the Hogwarts floo network and as he glided through the corridors on his way to the Head's office, he was contemplating what Albus had in store for him this time.

'Oh please let this be a real challenge instead of another insufferable "chat" over tea! Last time Albus was questioning me on my nonexistent love-life and how much upkeep the dungeons needed. What could he possibly want now?'

He reached the hidden staircase and repeated the password.

"Everlasting Gobstoppers"

'Honestly, that man and his muggle candies!'

A slight rap of the knuckles and a cheery "Come in Severus!" later, Severus Snape sat in Dumbledore's office, fingers steepled, waiting for the inevitable "What do you take in your tea again, Severus?"

It didn't come.

After offering Snape a lemon drop (with less enthusiasm than usual, Snape noted), Albus Dumbledore put on his concerned face, but failed to hide the twinkle in his eye.

"Severus, I'm afraid I've got some bad news,"

Snape braced himself.

"Ever since the defeat of Voldemort 3 years ago, what few of his followers remained have been trying to kill you, the traitor to the cause."

Severus nodded his head to say "Yes I know, get to the point."

The one Death Eater we've yet to find is Barty Crouch," Dumbledore continued "recent evidence has proved my speculations as correct,"

"He's looking for you. And we have reason to believe that he'll try to make his move on you soon-"

"I shall dispatch him as soon as possible, Headmaster, like the rest." Snape said as rose from his chair.

"No Severus, you will not. I would like to deal with this one personally. Therefore, I'm going to ask you to go into hiding for a short period and I've already arranged a place for you to stay…" Albus paused for dramatic effect and Snape sat down again.

Severus Snape pondered

'The most logical plan would be for me to deal with Barty as I dealt with his associates, but one must not question Dumbledore too much or he starts sending you large packets of muggle sweets.

'Into hiding, eh? Now if I were him where would I hide me? With people I naturally hate of course…oh no.'

Snape jumped up and declared,

"Albus, I will not stay with Potter and Weasley in that dingy muggle flat of theirs!"

That infuriating man only twinkled more merrily.

"Severus, would I do that to you?"

Quite firmly Snape replied "Yes"

"Of course not" Dumbledore answered himself.

"No, actually you'll be staying with Miss Hermione Granger-"

"WHAT?!!" Severus roared loud enough for Fawkes to burst into flame in surprise.

(Authors Note: to anyone out there, I hope you like it!!)