Morte

(*&*)

"I can't do it anymore Albus..." came the mumbled voice of a very tired man.

The wizened old man nodded and stroked the bloodied head that lay in his lap. The body attached to it shuddered violently in pain.

"I know Severus. I know." Dumbledore said soothingly. "This is the last time you will be going back. Tomorrow-"

"There won't be a tomorrow, Albus. Not for me."

"Of course there will, Severus. You know how much Miss Granger looks forward to you're visits. She'll be heartbroken if you don't-"

"Albus, I'm not going to make it through this one." the Professor said firmly.

The Headmaster bowed his head and tried to help the younger man heal.

"No Albus." the Potions professor refused.

The floor beneath Severus Snape was becoming warm. Perhaps it was because of the blood that was pouring for Snape's numerous wounds.

Death didn't seem like such a bad thing, now that he thought of it. All he had to do was concentrate of Hermione's face and let himself float away.

"Severus..." Albus said, his voice quavering.

"Hmmm...?"

"I'll miss you."

"Mmm..."

Severus Snape shut his eyes one final time and surrendered himself to the darkness.