THE MAGIC OF MUSIC
By Crystalraven55
All recognizable characters belong to JK Rowling. The only thing that belongs to me is the plot, original characters and my computer.
CHAPTER 1-THE ORPHAN
Severus Snape liked his summers. He could relax, brew, read and be left alone (well mostly) by Albus Dumbledore. On this particular morning in early June, he sat in the conservatory of Prince Manor drinking his first cup of coffee and reading The Daily Prophet. As he began, eating his eggs, he noticed an owl approaching carrying a scroll with the familiar seal of the Ministry of Magic. Sighing, he took the scroll, fed the owl a piece of bacon and broke open the seal. To his surprise, it was from the Wizarding Child Services Department.
He read, "To Severus Tobias Snape from the Office of Child Affairs. We have in our custody a child that is the daughter of your late sister Camilla Adrienne Prince and Joseph Griffiths. The child's name is Bronwyn Adrienne Griffiths and she is five years old. Our records indicate that you were named her godfather. Since she appears to be a Squib, we need to know what you want done with her so we can place her properly.
Yours truly, Amaryllis Halfgood"
Now despite his reputation as "the greasy dungeon bat", Severus did not hate children. In fact, he spent a great deal of time protecting them. His duties as a spy forced him to appear as if he hated children. He was strict and did not tolerate inattention in his class, but Potions was a dangerous subject and any small mistake could cause injury or death.
After he read the letter, he sat deep in thought. His sister Camilla was born after his mother Eileen divorced Tobias Snape and then discovered she was pregnant. The birth was difficult and she died soon after. Camilla had been raised by their Prince grandparents and married Joseph Griffiths. He was a Welsh wandmaker and Severus had only met him once, but he seemed like a nice sort and his sister was very happy. Later, he was named godfather to their little girl. He sent her presents on her birthday and Christmas but had not been able to visit since his duties as a teacher and spy kept him busy. Camilla had sent him pictures of the little girl and had told him that she seemed to be developing at a slower rate than other children were.
When Bronwyn was two, her mother died of Dragon Pox and Joseph had recently died in an accident. Severus knew that as her godfather he was responsible for her. He made a quick decision. "Wormwood" he called. The house elf appeared with a pop. "Yes Master Severus what can Wormwood be doing for you?"
"Wormwood I would like you to prepare a room for a five-year-old girl." It seems she will be staying here as she is my niece."
"It will be done at once Master," Wormwood said bowing deeply. "We is glad to have a new little one to look after. Who will you be wanting to help with her?"
Severus considered this question. He smiled and said, "Tillie. Have the room ready when I return."
The elf popped away and Severus walked over to the Floo, grabbed a handful of the sparkling powder and said, "Wizarding Child Services."
Author's Note: this is my first Harry Potter fan-fic. Please be kind and I would appreciate any reviews or suggestions. Please no flames since my author's ego is still very new. I could also use a beta reader so if there are any brave souls out there p.m. me and let me know!