Tender Ties

by Silver moonbeams

Harry is in danger of being bonded to Lucius & losing all of his inheritance.Even worse,his life is in danger.Unfortunately for him,the only way out is to become the ward/future spouse of Severus Snape.A tale of compromise & sacrifice that leads to love.

1. Chapter 1

This story is written for the Pick-a-Plot contest by Paris in December over at HPFC.

The story is based on prompt # 2:

It is revealed to the wizarding public that Severus and Harry are in a relationship. The papers are wild with speculation, but the two men actually got together thus:

-Dire circumstances forced them into a secret marriage, which they fought at first, but then came to accept and even enjoy.

Disclaimer: All characters belong to J. K. Rowling. I do not own Harry Potter and the associated characters. I do not make any profit from these writings. Except for the main plot, all other plot variations belong to me.

Warnings: This story is slash. Mild language.

---

Chapter 1

"Sev, have you seen today's headlines yet?" Harry enquired, walking into the kitchen with the Daily Prophet clutched in his hands.

Severus was already at the table with a mug of coffee held in his hand, intently perusing an article in the Potions Monthly that he diligently subscribed to.

"No, not yet. You know I don't have any patience for the drivel that they print, so why the question today?" Severus replied back absently, still immersed in the article, occasionally jotting down some points in a small journal which he kept for keeping abreast of new discoveries and inventions and the like.

Harry set the paper down on the table and went to make some breakfast. Severus, in this state was of no use till he'd finished his reading. Getting out a carton of eggs and some cream from the refrigerator, Harry went about the kitchen picking up other sundry items for his cheese and mushroom omelet and Severus's scrambled eggs.

With a relaxed air about him, Harry went about preparing the ingredients for his omelet while getting the pans on to heat for making the eggs. Within minutes, the fragrant smell of breakfast was permeating the room and he put the English muffins on to toast so as to have a full breakfast.

Setting down the full plates ten minutes later, Harry was pleased to see that Severus was folding up the magazine and setting it aside.

Severus looked up at Harry in thanks and gave him an appreciative smile. Picking up the cutlery he dug in to his eggs with relish and they spent a quiet few minutes enjoying their meal in silence.

"So, what is it that you wanted to show me?" Severus inquired while reaching across to pull the Daily Prophet to him. Harry pushed it closer and Severus gratefully picked it up spreading out the front page only to be met with the bold headlines:

"The Boy Who Lived in a secret relationship with Ex-Death Eater and Former Headmaster of Hogwarts Severus Snape?"

It has been brought to our attention that light's very own golden boy is in a secret relationship with ex-Death eater Severus Snape who was previously the boy's guardian during his final year at Hogwarts. Severus Snape is well known for his knowledge of the Dark Arts and has also spent time in Azkaban in his early years during the first rise of the Dark Lord Voldemort.(Read more about the first rise and fall of the dark lord on pg3)

Is our savior batting for the other team? That is the question on every woman's tongue who has ever hoped to have a chance at being Mrs. Harry Potter.

And if the answer's yes, then it begs the question why Severus Snape? Is this a whirlwind romance or is there a darker reason lurking behind…

(Read pg 5 to see what friends and acquaintances have to say about this relationship)

(Read pg 6 to learn more about Severus Snape's dark past)

It went on in the same vein for a few more pages filled with hearsay and misquoted facts before tapering off with some articles about their roles in the war. The only saving grace appeared to be the fact that he had been given his due as a war hero and a spy for the light, however grudgingly they might have done it.

"Well, this was to be expected Harry. The fact that they didn't find out about us sooner is a miracle, really." Severus stated calmly, folding the paper neatly before setting it down to one side.

Catching Harry's eye, he asked him seriously, "Are you upset that they somehow discovered our true relationship?"

"No! Of course not. It's just; they've been so unfair to you in the articles. Why can't they just look past what was done during the war?" Harry asked with a troubled frown before continuing.

"If it weren't for you, we would all probably be dead and it would have all been due to their own outdated wizarding laws and traditions." Harry continued to grumble with a disgusted look at the paper that had been the cause of many a problem during the early years of his schooling.

"Hmm, yes. Although we ought to be thankful for the existence of those laws, or else we wouldn't be where we are today, now would we, Harry?"

"Yes, you're right Sev; that is something to be thankful for after all." Harry said with a smile.

Reminiscing about that time long ago, he continued with a fond smile on his face, "If it hadn't been for that outdated law, I wouldn't be sitting opposite you today and I probably wouldn't be the happiest man alive."

With a slight, depreciating nod at himself, he added; "I'd most likely be stuck in a no end job with a wife, never knowing the life that I could have had with you. Its probable that I would have been very happy living that life, but knowing what I do now; after all that we've been through; if I could go back, I would still choose to bond with you."

"I have never been happier in my life and I know that it's all thanks to you." Harry stated with conviction.

"Given the same choice, I too would choose you. You were the one who made me live again. You accepted me with all my sharp edges and still managed to remain unscathed", Severus revealed.

"I love you, I hope you know that." Severus finished with the air of a man who'd known that he'd been given a second chance and who appreciated it fully.

That said, Severus got up and put his plates in the sink. Coming back, he tipped Harry's head back to give him a thorough good morning kiss.

Gently cradling his head, Severus coaxed Harry to open his mouth, letting his tongue map his mouth thoroughly, tasting the different flavors of their breakfast, now mingled on their tongues. Harry moaned at being kissed so thoroughly, his toes curling into the rug beneath his feet, his hands coming up to twine around Severus's neck, pulling him closer to him.

It was the lack of air that made them separate; Harry with a glazed look in his eye while Severus had a satisfied look on his face. Giving him a final quick kiss on his lips, Severus informed him that he would be in his potions lab for the rest of the morning and quickly left the kitchen before he was tempted to fuck Harry there and then, leaving a dazed Harry behind.

---

It was late evening before Harry saw Severus again. He was freshly showered and he had a towel over his wet locks. It had become a sort of a tradition for them. Severus would always wash his hair but would allow Harry to towel it dry for him. It was a way to spend some quiet time together, without any outside pressures.

It had begun at a time when they ad just been married and their relation was very rocky and unstable. But he was thankful for Harry's stubbornness and his seemingly thick skin.

Calling out to him, Severus pulled out a chair and sat down; waiting for Harry to come.

"Oh, so you're done with potions for today then, huh. I was so sure that you'd be stuck there for some more time." Harry said, surprised to see Severus showered and ready.

"Well…I decided to call it an early day for once. Why? Do you want me to disappear for a few more hours?" Severus asked dryly.

"No; of course not. You know I didn't mean it like that." Harry said with an exasperated look on his face.

Taking the towel from Severus, Harry went about toweling his hair dry. Once done, he slowly massaged his shoulders, loosening the tense knots that had formed there from hours of bending over cauldrons and precise prep work required to get the ingredients ready for use.

"Mmmm….you have amazing hands, Harry." Severus said with an appreciative groan.

Snaking his arms up, Severus quickly caught hold of those magic hands and pulled him to stand in front of him. Giving a quick, forceful tug, he pulled Harry onto his lap and kissed him. This kiss was in complete contrast to the one they'd shared in the morning. While that one had been sweet and gentle, this kiss was more forceful. Severus allowed Harry no time to think. He pushed his tongue forcefully inside and mapped every dip and crease, coming back to duel with Harry's tongue every now and then. It was hard and fast; Severus almost dominating the younger man.

Harry loved this side of Severus. It was rare for Severus to be so forceful with him, but Harry enjoyed it immensely. It was another sign of Severus's deeper feelings for him and he was content to submit to his wishes, because it so rarely happened.

At first, he'd been very wary of Severus and not a little frightened of him. He was many years his senior, well versed in dark arts and not the least, hated his guts and compared him too often to his father.

The circumstances of their union had been very unorthodox. But at that time, Voldemort's second rise coupled with Lucius Malfoy having a lot of sway over Fudge, who was the then Minister for Magic, had only managed to create a recipe for disaster.

It was only thanks to a few very loyal contacts at the ministry and Dumbledore's quick thinking; that they'd even found out about their plans for Harry and managed to circumvent it in time to avoid a huge disaster. Not that what happened in its stead had been anything less than a disaster in and of itself; it just hadn't been a colossal disaster.

"What's going on in that head of yours, Harry? It seems I'm losing my touch if your brain is still active, whatever little there is left of course." Severus raised an eyebrow and jostled him slightly to get him to answer him.

"Nothing important really. Just wondering what the world would think if they knew what really brought us together all those years ago."

"Well, it's a good thing then that they're never going to find out, now isn't it?"

"Hmmm…" Harry agreed with a mumble, busy nibbling Severus' jaw, kissing him intermittently. Giving a final small kiss on his lips, he looked at Severus and got up the courage to ask what had been on his mind.

"Do you remember that night, when you and Dumbledore asked me to stay behind and meet the two of you after the farewell feast, a couple of weeks after that fiasco in sixth year when I inadvertently ended up spying on Lucius Malfoy and his cohorts who had somehow made their way into the castle, without triggering any alarms?" Harry asked with a tentative, almost unsure look on his face.

"I remember it as clearly as if it all happened yesterday…"

---

The school year was at its end and all the students were busy chattering with friends, the stress of exams finally over. Some startling and very disturbing piece of news had managed to reach the ears of Albus Dumbledore. It had unsettled him badly, but a talk with the potions master Severus Snape had given him an inspiration and he was positive, (well almost positive) that he would be able to convince everyone to follow his advice.

"Severus, my boy; on your way out, could you please let Harry know that I would like him to come up to my office. You, as well; once you've seen to your duties of course."

"Of course, headmaster." Severus replied with a stiff nod, hating the fact that he'd been reduced to being a messenger boy between the headmaster and the golden boy.

"Oh! And one more thing Severus. Please tell him that the meeting is not optional. I will expect him no less than half hour past the end of the feast." Dumbledore cautioned with a piercing gaze over the top of his half-moon spectacles, conveying his seriousness.

Severus simply gave a brisk nod and made his way over to the Gryffindor table where Potter was holding court with his best friends and a few other fellow sixth year Gryffindors. Just seeing him made his blood boil. Deciding this was as close as he was going to come to the little gang, Severus bellowed at Potter with an angry sneer on his face.

"Potter! Finish the feast and come to the headmaster's office. Password is 'blood pops'. And that's an order! The headmaster expects you to meet him in no less than half an hour."

"I suggest you not disappoint him, if you value your life." Severus added with a sneer.

With a quick flap of his robes, Severus turned and exited the great hall. A night like this, he would have to be on his toes to keep all his wayward Slytherins in hand. He was so not looking forward to this.

---

Harry had just finished dinner and was making his way up the stairs to the headmaster's office. He was feeling nervous for some reason. He hoped he was not in any trouble. Of course it wouldn't be the first time if he were. And this year, he'd had a really lousy few months towards the end of the school year; what with that fiasco of running across death eaters in the castle. On having rushed to report them to the headmaster, unfortunately he had interrupted him during his meeting with the minister and had found himself scrutinized shrewdly by the minister before Dumbledore was able to cut him off mid way through his rant and ordered him to wait outside.

Just thinking about that day and the ramifications of what could happen if word got out to the public about it made Harry feel unsettled. He didn't care what the public thought any more but he certainly did not need any more disciplinary hearings in front of the wizengamot.

Once in a lifetime was more than enough for him, thought Harry, a grim look crossing his face.

Stating the password, Harry waited for the gargoyle to leap aside before making his way up the spiral staircase, coming to stand in front of the door to the headmaster's office proper. Giving a tentative knock, he entered when he heard his name called out with permission to enter.

On opening the door and slipping inside, Harry was surprised to see Snape there, standing off to one side, facing the door and Dumbledore at an angle, face grim as usual.

"You asked to see me, Professor?" Harry asked, deciding to be blunt about the matter.

"Yes, my boy. Please, take a seat. This might take a while." Dumbledore rejoined with a serious look marring his normally jovial face, the twinkle markedly absent for once.

"What did you want to talk to me about?" Harry asked, all the while conscious of Snape's intimidating presence to the side.

Dumbledore gazed at him, his eyes conveying the seriousness of the situation; his hands steepled in front of his lips.

"Well, some new information has come to light. And it will have very severe consequences if it is allowed to come to fruition. It concerns you and that is why, you are here. Despite my best efforts, I have been unable to stop this ball in its tracks and it is gaining momentum as we speak."

Clearing his throat, he continued his spiel.

"I believe you remember well that night when you barged into these offices to report to me that you'd seen Lucius Malfoy and two others enter the room of requirement…"

At a nod from Harry, he got a troubled look on his face and he 'hmmed' slightly.

"I take it you also remember that Cornelius Fudge was here when you came rushing in, accusing Lucius Malfoy and those two other men of being death eaters and you also accused them of stealing a tiara, more specifically a diadem; supposedly the one belonging to Ravenclaw…"

At receiving another nod from Harry, Dumbledore sighed and glanced at Snape, an unreadable look shared between the two of them.

Taking a deep breath, he locked eyes with Harry and said, "There are strong whispers of Lucius Malfoy seeking legal counsel to gain guardianship over you before you return for your final year here. This is in retaliation to your 'unfound' accusations and as a personal disciplinary action against you. I believe he hopes to either convert you or hand you over directly to the dark lord. Or at the very least have full control over you and your actions."

"But it was the truth, professor! You've seen my memories of that night in the pensieve. Harry exclaimed angrily.

"I may know it as the truth but the memories are inadmissible in the court as you've already had a disciplinary hearing and that means it's your word against Lucius Malfoy's." Dumbledore finished gravely.

"Cornelius is supporting him and word is they are trying to declare you unfit to take proper care of yourself and to fulfill your role as the heir to two prominent families and transfer full guardianship to Lucius, with the aid of a specific bond; as he is related to the House of Black by marriage and has a good public standing."

"They are spinning it as if Lucius is doing this to honor Sirius's death and take care of his heir in his absence…"

"They don't know a thing about what Siri wanted and the last person to care about me would be Lucius Malfoy!" Harry interrupted loudly; angered beyond belief at what was happening.

"Keep your voice down, Potter! Don't forget whom you're talking to." Severus snarled from his place at the side.

"Severus..."Dumbledore chided him. Seeing that he was not to be deterred from taking out his ire on the boy, the headmaster suddenly addressed Severus for his opinions.

"Would you care to share your thoughts about what we've discussed so far, in a constructive manner, Severus?"

Severus Snape looked slightly abashed. He took his time formulating an answer, glancing between Harry and the headmaster, before settling his gaze on the headmaster.

"I would not discount the rumors…but I also strongly believe that Lucius is not the sort to actively wish harm to a child. That being said, Lucius could be under the dark lord's hold without anyone being the wiser and if that is the case, any reluctance on our part to examine his motives could lead us into a risky situation", Severus drawled.

"Alarmingly, I must say that I have noticed a slight change in Lucius and not for the better, I assure you", warned Severus.

"I would advise you to take precautionary measures, if you deem it necessary. If Lucius is seeking legal counsel, then he means business and there's very little that gets in the way of what a Malfoy wants". Severus finished with a disdainful glance at Harry's hunched form.

"It seems Potter is unable to stay out of trouble even if it were to save his life." He finished with a sneer.

"Now, Severus; this is not the time for such sentiments." Dumbledore admonished him lightly; his gaze resting pensively on Harry's hunched form. His eyes did not miss the anger and loathing on Harry's face. But knowing that public opinion of Harry was fickle and could change in an instant; now more than ever, he needed to stay out of the limelight as much as possible and retain the public's good will for him.

"I will think about the situation that we find ourselves in some more. In the mean time, I want you to keep your head down and not get into any altercations with the younger Malfoy. You need to keep a cool head now that you know what is in the works at the ministry. Do not give them any more ammunition to use against you, Harry!" Dumbledore cautioned him sternly.

"Severus, let me know if Lucius contacts you for any reason."

"I will meet you both here tomorrow night to discuss the preventive measures that I can come up with to stop this nonsense before it gets out of our control."

With that said, Dumbledore dismissed them both. The sound of a chair being scraped across the floor and clattering to the floor was heard as Harry left the office in a fit of pique; angering Severus at his appalling behavior before righting the chair with a flick of his wand and departing the office with a final, reserved nod at Albus.

---

Albus Dumbledore had never been a man who could be unsettled easily. He'd seen his fair share of wars and dealt with enough unsavory characters to know when to be wary and when to turn a blind eye to them and to the machinations going on at the ministry.

This time, however all his senses were screaming at him not to ignore the newest threat. There was disaster brewing, of that he was very sure.

The minute his contact at the ministry had informed him of the highly unusual nature of the conversation that he'd overheard between Malfoy Senior and the minister, his hackles were raised and the fact that it had to do with Harry did not make him feel any better.

Looking at the clock, he was surprised to see that it was nearing midnight and that he was no closer to figuring out Lucius's agenda behind this latest scheme of his.

Fawkes flashed on to his perch and trilled out a soothing note, the sound ringing in his ears long after his warbling had ceased.

A contemplative look on his face, Dumbledore studied Fawkes and thought out loud, "I wonder if I should contact Nicholas. Perhaps he can shed some light on this matter for me. After all, he has been alive for over 5 centuries now."

"He's bound to know something that I know I'm missing." He mumbled to himself as he stood up from his chair, his bones twinging, making him feel his age for once.

He slowly made his way over to the fireplace in his personal quarters and picked up the jar of floo powder from the mantel. The jar had seen better days but it served its purpose for now. Pinching a bit of the fine pale blue powder, Dumbledore threw it onto the flames and watched it turn green before sticking his head into the flames and calling out "Flamel's Roost."

His private floo was one of the few existing floos that were still connected to the Flamel's floo. The floo call would cause a ping to sound in the house, alerting them to the call and one of the Flamels would attend to it as soon as possible.

A few minute later, his wait was rewarded when Nicholas himself entered to take the call. If he was surprised to see Albus there, it certainly did not show on his face.

"Albus! How are you, old friend? It's been a few months since I last heard from you…" Nicholas greeted him with a smile, very surprised to see him call so late at night.

"Hello Nicholas…yes, it has been awhile, hasn't it? I have some important matters that I need your guidance on…would you mind terribly if I came over to your place right now?" Albus asked unsurely, an answering smile flitting across his face at seeing his friend again.

"Of course, you know you are always welcome here. Step back a moment while I change the floo wards to grant you entry." As soon as Albus pulled back, Nicholas quickly changed his wards to allow only Albus entry into their home rather than a more general entry which could be used by anybody, even an impostor. One could never be too careful these days, he thought with a rueful smile.

A few seconds later, he was graced with Albus's presence in his house. The Flamels lived in a modest countryside mansion, with enough land for farming and horse rearing. Their location was unplottable and they had very little reason to venture out as they were fully self sufficient.

By now, Perenelle had joined her husband, wanting to see what had kept her husband from returning to bed.

"Albus, it's so good to see you!" Perenelle greeted him warmly, coming over to give him a hug and a kiss on the cheek. Albus was almost like a son to them and it always warmed her heart to know that he came to them whenever he was troubled or in need of a shoulder to lean on.

"It's good to see you as well, Peri. It's been too long since we met under less stressful times." Albus rejoined with a pleased smile, glad for the chance to catch up with them.

"It seems as if every time I come to visit you all, it has to be prompted by some problem or the other…" Albus bemoaned with a rueful smile.

"And I'm sad to say, but this time isn't any better either". He finished with a wry smile.

"Come, gentlemen! Let's go to the sitting room. I'll ask the elves to bring up some tea and biscuits for us. Whatever the reason for your visit, it does not mean that we can't relax in comfortable settings while we help you sort out your problems." Peri said as she ordered the two men out with a fond smile and called for the head elf to send up some tea for the three of them to the sitting room before following them into the room.

The room was modest in size and was tastefully furnished with cozy arm chairs and a comfortable couch placed near the ornate fireplace. There were pictures from their younger years displayed on the mantel above.

Albus took the armchair while Peri and Nicholas took the couch.

Once settled comfortably, Nick pierced him with a straight look and asked, "So Albus; what brings you here so late at night?"

"Well, it concerns Harry Potter. I've heard some disturbing news and at this point I really have no idea what to make of all that I've heard so far or even if I should take any steps to counter what I've heard."

"Hmm…how is that boy?" Peri asked as she started pouring the tea and setting out some biscuits to go along with it on the oval centre table situated in front of them.

"Last I remember, there were some accusations that he was spreading rumors about upstanding citizens and before that, he was trying to fuel the belief that the dark lord was indeed back from the dead…which of course we know to be the truth but getting the public to accept it is going to be another matter altogether…" Nicholas said with a quizzical look on his face.

"Harry is fine, for now." Dumbledore added seriously, taking the cup of tea handed out to him, made with just the right amount of milk and sugar and served with a side of shortbread.

Slowly sipping his tea, Dumbledore explained the details about the rumors that he'd heard from his contact at the ministry and all the repercussions that would follow if something like this were allowed to take place and the fate of the boy and the wizarding world at large would be forever altered.

Nicholas was deep in thought when he suddenly got up and strode to the bookshelf at the far end of the room, sliding the books left and right in search of something. A few minutes of frantic searching later, he was rewarded with the book that he'd been interested in. Pulling it out, Albus could see that it was a thin green book, frayed slightly with age and use, though still quite relatively new. Bringing it over to the two still seated, Nick skimmed through an overview of some of the outdated and illegal bonds that had caused him to remember this particular book when he'd heard Albus disclose all the details of what he'd overheard previously.

"I believe Lucius plans to use this particular type of guardianship bond on Harry. If the minister was to grant permission and if for some reason they are able to get his guardians to sign over custody of the boy willingly, then Harry would be in real danger." Nicholas said as he flipped through the pages to get to the correct page with the information on this particular bond, outdated as it was.

"Here it is! Hmm… it says here that this bond is very rarely used in today's times as it was found to be very detrimental to the state of mind of the ward in question. It also fell out of favor because of the misuse of the power bestowed on the guardian."

Nicholas settled down on the couch and finding the matter of interest, read it out loud.

The bond allows the de facto guardian complete control over the ward's monetary assets in the event that the parents are deceased and full rights are bestowed on the guardian with respect to every aspect of his ward's life from the subjects that he is to learn, the tutors that he is allowed to interact with to even the school that he is required to attend.

In such cases, it is generally much easier to sway loyalties of a light child to turn towards the dark as he is in essence isolated from everything that is known and familiar and forced to do as his guardian wishes with disobedience being severely punished. Outside contact is heavily monitored and actively discouraged thus leaving the ward with no choice but to comply with the guardian's wishes as the alternative is being isolated and ostracized from wizarding society.

Originally, the bond was to keep in hand unruly boys by having a strict disciplinarian watching over them, instilling proper behavior and respect for their betters when the parents themselves were unable to instill the pureblood etiquette into them and to curb their more outlandish behaviors. The age of majority under this bond was 21 rather than the more accepted age of 18, giving the ward more time to learn the required customs and duties, befitting an heir.

In more recent times, as recent as 1800s the bond started being misused by the more unscrupulous lords. The prominent Light families were spared but the much smaller, lesser known families were targeted and killed; their children being taken in under the guardianship of some of the unscrupulous dark families before anyone could intervene, so as to gain monetary assets as well as receive a pawn against the true family in return.

A lot of skirmishes took place between the dark and light families, the dark families then facing scrutiny from the wizengamot and the result being that in the early 1900s, the bond was classified as illegal and the penalty for performing and entering into said bond was life at Azkaban coupled with monetary reparations to the ward and the associated family.

Although the bond had originally been used with good intentions; the dark times between 1800 -1900 with rampant misuse of the bond for personal gain and the destruction of many of the lesser wizarding families tainted the bond in the eyes of the general public and has since been relegated to the classification 'Illegal XXX Dark'.

Nicholas finished reading, sliding the book down onto his lap, pinning Albus with a troubled look, a frown creasing his forehead.

"I think we all have a fairly good idea of what exactly Lucius has planned for our Harry."

Sitting beside him, Peri looked stunned and shocked, for the first time realizing how much danger Harry was in; concern and worry etched on her normally joyous face.

"Oh! That poor boy…"she whispered.

Albus himself was shaken, the very thought of what would happen if they were to gain guardianship over Harry under that bond was enough to make him queasy; let alone what would happen to Harry who wouldn't know the first thing of what was happening and why? Albus thought despairingly.

"Dear god, what am I supposed to do now…"Albus whispered into the tense silence.

"Fear not, Albus. I'm sure we can find something that could prevent this disaster from happening in the first place." Peri said comfortingly.

"Nicholas, surely you know something that we could use to prevent this…Harry is nearly of age; is there any other bond whose presence would take precedence over this bond or which could thwart the use of this bond in the first place?" Peri asked her husband, all the while thinking about the different bonds in existence and their relevance to their situation.

"Hmm…yes, now that I think about it, there just might be a few that we could use…" with that Nicholas fell quiet once again, staring pensively at the fire flickering in the fire place.

Flipping back to the index page, Nicholas searched for the listings of older and more powerful bonds categorically grouped together by power and importance rather than by type. Skimming through the list, two bonds caught his interest; one a blood adoption bond and the other a guardianship-marriage bond.

Reading through the both of them, Nicholas quickly summarized the details and said,

"It seems to me that you only have two options, Albus."

"One; you find a family of equal or higher standing than the Malfoys and get Harry blood bonded into said family so that they can oppose the bond long enough for Harry to turn 18 the following year by which time Harry would no longer be eligible under the terms of that particular bond, thus making the bond obsolete." He paused here and met Albus's gaze seriously and continued in a quiet voice.

"Or two; you enter Harry into a guardianship-marriage bond with a person, preferably an older male with a well known reputation, one who is acknowledged for his achievements and is a disciplined and principled man. One who will be able to oppose Lucius's claim strongly and yet convince the ministry that he can take Harry in hand and ensure that his wayward behaviors are curbed, all the while ensuring that no harm would befall Harry in any way."

"Are you both seriously considering bonding Harry to someone without even knowing for sure whether Lucius will be successful in his venture to gain guardianship?" Peri interrupted agitatedly, unable to keep quiet on her thoughts.

"Surely it's not as serious as you are making it out to be…" she protested feebly, shifting her gaze between the two men, pleading for them to agree with her.

Albus met her gaze head on and asked, "Have you ever known the Malfoys to go into anything half-cocked, without the assurance of success?"

"No…but surely, we are exaggerating the matter. Isn't it possible that we are making a mistake?"

"We could be, yes…I don't disagree there. But the question remains; are we willing to risk Harry's life just because we are unsure or do we take counter measures in the hopes that all that we have heard is true?" Albus asked them both, only to receive troubled silence from them both.

Nodding at Nicholas to continue where he left off, Albus settled back in his chair, taking a sip of the now tepid tea and popping a small biscuit into his mouth, listening carefully to what the bonds entailed.

"Both bonds have serious drawbacks, Albus", Nicholas warned, after he'd finished reading out the details of the bonds.

"These bonds are not to be taken lightly. The blood adoption bond would require Harry to give up his Potter inheritance and accept his new status whole heartedly…any hesitance on Harry's part or even the slightest disgruntlement on being forced into a situation not of his choosing and the magic that would be called on will not take hold and the blood adoption will fail".

He took a deep breath and continued, "The other bond is a bit more flexible in terms of the magic called up on…"

"The senior partner would hold guardianship over Harry until the age of 18, in a role very similar to the bond that Lucius wishes to use; the difference being that the guardian under the rules of this bond would be the sole care giver, disciplinarian and enforcer of rules."

"He is not allowed to cause harm to his ward and is to do his best to protect him from any and all those who seek to cause him injury. After reaching majority at 18, the bond would then transform itself into a marriage bond and require consummation. The premise of this bond was that the senior partner would be bestowed with the rights of a dominant and the ward in question, in this case Harry would be considered as the submissive with each of them having certain responsibilities towards each other." Nicholas elaborated on the quirks of the bond.

"By far, this seems to be the better option Albus, in that we are assured of the bond manifesting itself unlike the blood adoption where too many things could go wrong." Nicholas finished as he wearily ran a hand over his face; appalled at what they were contemplating with regards to that young man and his future.

"Yes, although I might wish to allow Harry the opportunity to fall in love and get married, it would be of little use if he himself were unable to survive this war." Albus sighed discontentedly, his hands clasped together with the elbows braced on his knees. For once, he was feeling his 150 plus years.

Leaning forward to convey his seriousness, Albus met Nick's tired gaze and stated quietly, "And if that means that I have to force him to sacrifice his freedom to marry someone of his choice, then so be it."

"At least he will be alive to have a future…" Albus murmured, face hard and set into lines of determination; the twinkle markedly absent at the thought of what was about to befall young Harry.

---

Albus had been up till the wee hours of the morning discussing things with the Flamels, trying to decide on a suitable candidate, with hardly anyone matching the requirements. It had been a disheartened Albus who had returned to the school at dawn, having stayed over to catch a few hours of shut-eye before he had to go back to Hogwarts.

Morning came too soon in his opinion and he was ill prepared to deal with the situation at hand and time was running out for them.

Putting on a brave face to keep the others from finding out something was amiss, Albus headed down to the great hall to have breakfast with the staff and his students.

On entering, he was greeted with the quiet murmur of students, everyone engrossed in their matters, talking with friends and making plans for the summer, enjoying one of their last few breakfasts left at the castle before it was time to head home…

He was not at all surprised to see Severus at the head table, nursing a mug of coffee as was his ritual every day.

Taking his seat at the centre of the staff table, next to Severus, Albus took the time to first serve himself some breakfast in the form of fresh, scrambled eggs, grilled tomato and toast and filled his mug with strong black tea, diluting it with a tiny amount of milk and one sugar cube. He spent the time observing his colleague and, dare he say it, dear friend partake in his own meager breakfast of muffins, one of his sole indulgences. He was partial to black coffee and never considered himself awake till he'd at least consumed two cups of that bitter brew.

"If I may be so bold as to enquire, what is it that troubles you so, headmaster?" Severus turned towards Albus and asked him quietly; genuine concern hidden in his eyes.

"I notice that you are not your usual 'perky' self and though I may be glad for the reprieve, it nevertheless troubles me to see you so…somber, for lack of a better word", Severus said dryly, eyes once more settled on the students eating in the Great Hall.

"Yesterday's talks are still troubling me…I have managed to find even more startling information about the plans centering around Harry; none of them any good. I fear for Harry's life…" Albus murmured; eyes focused on his plate, giving the impression to anybody who was looking that those at the staff table were engrossed in eating breakfast.

After all, one could never be too careful. Anyone might be an informer for the dark lord.

"Should I come up to your office after breakfast is done?" Severus asked quietly, indulging in his third cup of coffee for the day.

"If it wouldn't be too much trouble…" Albus replied, a glimmer of an idea taking root in his mind.

Severus inclined his head in assent and taking his leave, picked up his coffee and left the table, heading for the side exit, intent on spending the remainder of the time till breakfast was over and done with, in the peace and quiet of his quarters. He couldn't wait for the start of the summer vacation. He desperately needed some time away from all these chattering students to center and refocus himself. He couldn't afford to make any mistakes, not with the war looming over them.

---

Severus made his way up the staircase to the headmaster's office, unsure whether he really wanted to find out further about that insolent Potter boy and the situation that he found himself in.

Schooling his face into a blank mask, he knocked on the door and waited; opening it and entering once he'd received permission.

"Ah! Come, have a seat, Severus. I fear that what we have to discuss is going to take up quite a bit of our time." Albus said, seated behind his desk, a few books scattered on the table and a box of lemon drops placed off to one side, within easy reach.

Severus glided over and took the seat opposite him and declined the offer of lemon drop when Albus gestured to it; acquiescing to a cup of tea instead.

"The matter involving Harry seems to be more serious than we first thought…" Albus began and quietly informed Severus of all that he'd learned over at the Flamels.

"…and that brings us to the point where we must decide to take these whispers about Lucius and his plans seriously and take measures to counter them or we turn a blind eye and let matters unfold as they would." Albus finished with a somber face, putting the ball in Severus's court, inviting him to share his thoughts on the matter.

"If Lucius is indeed gunning fro guardianship, then it is a given that he will succeed. 'A Malfoy always gets what he wants'; I believe that is his motto in life." Severus drawled, a somewhat fond look on his face, remembering much earlier times.

"Hmm…this puts us in a very precarious situation, I'm afraid." Albus contemplated the man opposite him.

Severus was keenly aware of the headmaster's gaze fixed on his person and he quelled the urge to fidget like a recalcitrant young boy sent up to the headmaster's office for punishment. He had a feeling whatever was going through that man's head would not bode well for him. It never did.

Sipping his tea for the first time, he was caught off-guard when he felt the effects of a strong calming potion take effect.

Now; unable to muster enough anger even at himself for being so lax and getting dosed by his own potion, he said, "I assume there is some reason why you've seen fit to dose me with a calming potion, Albus."

Severus tried to growl out the words but unfortunately only managed a calm, almost amiable tone.

"Yes, I have a very good reason for it, have you ever known me to do anything drastic without having ample reason for it?" Albus chided him gently.

"Hmm…just get on with it before I decide to change my mind." Severus said, wanting to get this over and done with as fast as possible.

Albus decided to come straight to the point.

"We have two choices to counter Lucius's plans…of which only one is actually viable and even possible at this stage."

"It is a guardianship cum marriage bond, one of the oldest bonds in existence, older than the one Lucius plans to use." Albus paused, unsure how to proceed from here.

Gathering his thoughts once again, he began again.

"Harry would have to be bonded to an older male, ideally one with sufficient recognition or backing to stand up against Lucius and his claims on Harry. The bond bestows a slightly more dominant role to the senior partner as the bond recognizes him as the sole provider, care giver and disciplinarian of the ward. To that end, Harry would have a slightly more submissive role…we cannot know for sure to what extent, as it would depend on the other individual involved as well. However, I do not use the terms 'dominant' and 'submissive' in the strictest sense of the words. There is room for interpretation on those roles according to what I have learned so far and it differs from couple to couple." Albus informed him, eyes keenly taking in Severus' every expression.

"As Harry still has a year of school left and is not considered a full adult until he graduates, this option is still open to us because the bond is first and foremost a guardianship bond which will then be converted to a marriage bond when the ward comes of age." Albus said, watching Severus closely.

He was rewarded for his wait when Severus asked, "And why are you telling me all this? Shouldn't you be informing the prospective groom and Potter about their new roles?"

"Tell me, who is the lucky man who will be saddled with Potter for the foreseeable future? Severus asked with a raised eyebrow, genuinely curious to find out who that person was who would have to tolerate Potter for the rest of his life.

His question was met with silence and a steady gaze.

"No! Surely you are jesting! Please tell me you are not planning what I think you are planning!" Severus exclaimed; rattling his tea cup as he slammed it down on the desk in front of him, agitated by the mere thought of what Albus was implying, even with the effects of the potion.

Pushing away from the desk with a loud scrape of his chair, Albus rose to his feet and slammed his hands down on the desk and pinned Severus with angry eyes.

"Do you really think this is what I would have chosen for Harry? The fact that I am forced to contemplate bonding Harry to anyone older than him without his consent and without his choice is like a blow to my heart. That I, to whom he is like a grandson; have to decide a path for him that he will be forced to walk for the rest of his life disheartens and shames me; for I am neither allowing him to choose his partner nor allowing him the choice to choose his own path. I can rail all I want at what I have to do, but it does not change anything as the alternative is something far worse. I cannot knowingly send Harry to the slaughter at Lucius's hands" Albus whispered, despair lacing his words.

"I would much rather he were forced to bond to someone of my choosing. At least he would still be alive." Albus stated; his gaze hardening with conviction; knowing that what was to come ahead would be a difficult time.

"But surely; there must be some one else that you could choose. Anyone else! You know that we have spent the last 6 yrs hating each other and things are not going to change any time soon!"

"That is precisely the reason you are the best suited for this bond. Your enmity is legendary and if anyone raises any objections to your authority over Harry, this would be enough to quell them as they would have 6 yrs worth of proof that you can maintain authority over Harry and curb his wayward behavior."

"I have traveled a lonely, dark path and you want to force Harry down that path with me..." Severus asked in a whisper; eyes narrowed in disbelief.

"You know that I have dabbled in the dark arts and am quite proficient at it, not to mention that I am a Death eater as well." Severus reminded him with a dark look

"And who better than a person well versed in the dark arts. Harry has always been the focus of malicious intent. The fact that his guardian is well versed in the dark arts and not above using them will be a good deterrent for most who wish to bring him harm." Albus refuted his reasons.

When it seemed as if Severus would interrupt, Albus silenced him with a look and said, "Just hear me out Severus, that's all I ask. In the end, the decision still rests with you."

Satisfied that Severus would give him a fair chance, he rested a hand on the back of his armchair and continued.

"The fact of the matter is, despite everything else; the life of the prospective guardian would also be in danger due to the unique circumstances. But you are very much capable of handling anything that comes your way. If I am forcing Harry to do something then for sure, I want to give him the best possible chance at surviving this as I can; and that means that the guardian of choice also has the best possible chance at survival."

Locking eyes with Severus, he tried to convey the seriousness of the situation at hand. "Harry is crucial to this war. You know the reason why…"

At Severus's grudgingly given nod, Albus continued.

"You are the only one I know that I would entrust Harry's safety to."

Albus pre-empted Severus and said, "Yes, I know that there is no love lost between you two…but I also know that you are a man of honor and will do everything in your power to keep the both of you safe. In time you will see that he is not his father. You might even learn to care for him."

"The most important thing is that Harry survives to fight against Voldemort."

At a wince from Severus, he rectified his next statement.

"If we were to lose Harry, then the dark lord will be unstoppable." He stated with a finality that brooked no arguments.

Finally feeling the effects of the calming potion wearing off, Severus allowed himself to process what his real feelings were. Pinching the bridge of his nose, he could already feel the beginnings of a headache just thinking about what he would be forced to endure if he were to acquiesce to the headmaster's plans.

"If you could lend me this book of bonds, I would like to familiarize myself thoroughly with all that the bond entails before I give you my decision." Severus forced out reluctantly, knowing that there really was no other option.

He reply was met with a relieved smile.

"Of course, you are free to go through the book. Wait just a moment."

And with that said, Albus opened one of his lower desk drawers where he'd kept the borrowed book and took it out; sliding it across the desk towards Severus who picked it up slowly and flipped it open to read the first page.

Apparently satisfied with what he found there, he snapped it shut and said, "I will give you my final answer when we meet up in the evening again, as decided last night."

With a final searching look at Albus, he took his leave.

"Good day to you, headmaster." And with a swish of his robes, he quickly made his way down the stairs; a faint 'Good day, my boy' reaching his ears as he crossed the gargoyle and made his way to his quarters in the dungeons.

He had a lot to think about and not enough time in which to do it.

---

It was a quiet few hours later that Severus finally put the book down and relaxed back into his armchair, his face thoughtful as he assimilated all that he'd read.

He had brought the book to his rooms and had spent the past few hours poring over all the information that it contained, trying to understand the intricacies of the bond.

His rooms were well furnished, with many of his personal belongings from Prince Manor being scattered around the room. Unlike what one would expect from quarters located in the dungeons, his rooms here were sufficiently well lit with the furnishings adding to the roomy feel. His living room boasted a couch and two armchairs. Closer to the fireplace, there was a cushioned rocking chair, which had seen quite a lot of use, if the worn upholstery was any clue.

Severus leaned his head back and clasped his hands in front of his lips, elbows placed on the arm rests.

The book had been very informative, describing in detail the role of the dominant partner and the submissive partner.

It was not something that one could take lightly. The most worrisome of all was Potter's reactions. In essence, Potter would be getting into this blind, without any knowledge whatsoever of what the bond entailed.

One thing that he'd gleaned from the book was that the bond was permanent. There would never be anybody else for him, or for Potter. Severus thought with an indecipherable look on his face.

He took a leisurely sip of his firewhiskey before he resumed his mental analysis of the bond.

According to the book, he would be Potter's guardian till he graduated school; after which they had a month in which to establish the marriage bond. There would be a small ceremony establishing their changed roles and allowing them to officially change their existing bond to that of the marriage bond, as per the rules of this particular bond.

The bond itself would be sentient to some extent, allowing no outside interference once established. That meant that the minute the guardianship was established, there could be no turning back; for either of them.

During his role as Potter's guardian, he would still be required to provide all that he would to a spouse, the only difference being that they could not consummate the bond till he was legally recognized as an adult. Everything else was permissible and even expected to some extent. He would cross that bridge when he came to it and not a moment before, he decided with a resolved expression that belied the turmoil in his mind; his fingers clenching around the glass at the thought of all that he would be forced to do, if he were to agree to the bond.

His life had been spent catering to the whims of two powerful masters and it seemed there was still work to be done before he would be allowed any peace, though at this rate it seemed that peace would be forever out of his reach in this lifetime, he thought with a disgruntled sigh.

That meant, he would be spending the summer with Potter in tow and would have to make appropriate arrangements, accordingly.

Only one thought was foremost in his mind.

Could he look past his childhood tormentor, James Potter long enough to see his son; or would he be forced to spend forever with a copy of his nemesis in the form of his son?

---

It was late evening by the time Severus re-emerged from the dungeons having skipped lunch for a light meal, eaten in his quarters.

He was dreading the evening, but you couldn't tell that by looking at his face. Outwardly, he was cool, calm and uninterested in the happenings of the castle.

He was quite uncertain as to how to handle this situation, which was admittedly a first for him. All his years spent as a spy had in no way prepared him for what he was about to do.

But if he was clear about one thing, it was that in no way was he going to allow Potter to gain the upper hand in this.

Come what may, Potter would just have to learn to deal with Severus and all his quirks.

Heading to the Great Hall for dinner, he found only a few of the staff members in their respective places up at the head table, idly chatting with their neighbors, waiting for the rest of them to appear and for dinner to officially begin.

As he walked past the students' tables towards the head table, his eyes were busy scanning their faces, looking to pinpoint the boy who lived; only to find him conspicuously absent.

No doubt the boy was still sulking over what he'd been told yesterday. He repressed a shudder at the thought of what would happen when Albus's decision would be placed in front of him. That boy had far too much uncontrolled magic, ready to come to his aid at a minute's notice.

His inner musings were cut short when he reached his designated place next to the headmaster and with a curt nod in his direction, settled down to wait.

For once, Albus said nothing and reciprocated his greeting in the same manner, seemingly finding the setting too public to bring up their earlier discussion and his subsequent decision.

In short order; the head table filled up and the Hall with hungry students, resulting in the start of the farewell feast.

Tomorrow, the students would leave for summer vacation after the morning meal; boarding the Hogwarts Express which would take them back to London.

Severus saw Potter and his friends make their way to the tables a little while after the feast officially began; filling up their plates in haste while still continuing to talk about something troubling; as evidenced by the scowls and the big hand gestures exchanged between the trio.

Dinner was a quick and quiet affair; ending too soon as far as Severus was concerned.

He was not looking forward to the coming confrontation.

When Albus stood up, finished with dinner; Severus followed suit and with nary a word spoken between them, they made their way up to his office, located in one of the huge towers of the castle.

On their way up, they were joined by Mr. Potter who managed to keep pace with them; the silence hanging heavy between them. Within no time they found themselves in front of the gargoyle and with a whispered 'mint humbugs' were granted access to the office.

Entering his office chambers, Albus made his way over to the chair behind the desk and sat down. He indicated to Severus and Harry to take the seats in front of him. Only Harry obliged him, of course; Severus choosing to stand behind and slightly to the side of Harry, hands tightly folded across his chest.

He would have liked to offer them some lemon drops but on second thoughts decided to just come straight to the point. Locking eyes with Harry, he could see that he was controlling himself with great restraint.

Bracing himself for what he had to do, Albus stated calmly, "Harry, my boy; I have gained some highly disturbing news regarding Lucius and his plans for you. I will not bore you with the details, but suffice to say that the circumstances are dire. A wrong move on our part at this time would lead to your downfall and with it, our hopes of defeating Voldemort once and for all."

"I understand that headmaster, but what are you suggesting that we do?" Harry asked exasperatedly, irritated with Malfoy Sr. for complicating his life yet again.

"There is a way, but it will involve great sacrifice on your part. In return, I guarantee that you will be outside the sphere of influence of such corrupt people like the Malfoys and others at the Ministry and outside it." Albus stated with conviction.

"Let's hear it, then." Harry urged and settled back into his chair to hear what the headmaster had to say this time.

"We know for sure that Lucius plans to use an archaic bond to gain full access to you and your inheritance, by gaining guardianship under the old laws, thus pushing your majority to 21 before you are legally able to contest anything, even the guardianship itself."

He could see that Harry was horrified at that scenario coming to pass, but he quickly disabused him of that notion.

"There is no way that we would allow that to come to pass." Albus stressed that point before continuing.

"However, the only other alternative that we have left that can in any way be capable of contesting that particular bond is the much older guardianship-marriage bond."

Staring down at Harry pensively, Severus could see that this information was hardly welcome at this stage, if his tense shoulders and clenched hands were any indication; not to mention the barely simmering magic beneath the surface.

He tuned in just in time to hear Albus finish informing Harry about the bond and all that it entailed, before he dropped the bombshell about his chosen guardian/mate.

It seemed that he was being thrown straight from the frying pan and into the fire as Albus laid the facts down quite bluntly and informed him that Severus would be said guardian-mate.

"There is only one person that I would consider for this bond, one who is fully capable of protecting both you and himself from unwanted harm; and that man is Severus Snape." Albus said seriously, his face for once looking his age.

He was rewarded for his lack of tact and understanding with a disbelieving snort and an angry scowl.

"You honestly expect me to believe this nonsense?" Harry gaped in disbelief, snapping his gaze from one to the other, expecting it all to be one big joke.

Sadly for him, this was just the beginning, Severus thought to himself with the slightest amount of pity; which vanished when he remembered his own sorry predicament.

"This is not a laughing matter, Harry."

"Who's laughing? Certainly not me!" Harry exclaimed loudly, unsure whether to take them seriously.

"Severus is capable of fending them off and protecting you at the same time. Do not forget that he has ample experience dealing with dark wizards." Albus tried to reason with Harry, trying to get him to see the bright side of things.

"Have you forgotten that he is a Death eater?" Harry asked, infuriated that they were treating him like a small child; incapable of deciding things for himself.

"What is to stop him from handing me over to the dark lord himself to gain favor?"

He asked with a dark look directed at Severus.

"I have not forgotten anything, child." Albus chided him for his unfounded comments.

Before Albus could continue further he was interrupted by Severus; who had reached the end of his patience,

"If you had any knowledge of the magic and intent behind such bonds, it would be clear to you that the guardian is incapable of bringing willful harm to his ward." Severus snapped at Harry.

Seeing that he was once more going to spout off something undoubtedly stupid, he added in an irritated tone.

"I would be bound by that same magic to ensure your protection and survival. Any harm that is done by my direct actions or my inaction, will get reflected onto me two fold."

"That is not to say that one cannot get around certain bonds." Severus added silkily in a dark voice, which sent shivers down Harry's back. An undertone to his words that put Harry on edge.

"The bond that we will be entering into is very strict, it does not allow for any deviation, either on my part or yours." Severus informed Potter smoothly; whom he could see still had trouble processing all that had been said.

"Unfortunately for you, Lucius plans to use a bond which has already been corrupted."

"A bond which has too many loopholes with regards to the ward in question can be easily circumvented; you just need to know what has to be done." Severus added in a snide tone, his dark eyes narrowed and fixed on Harry.

Seeing that an argument was about to start between the two, the headmaster intervened.

Albus decided to change tactics and instead enquired, "Tell me Harry, do you think your family would last long against adult dark wizards, even if they were somehow able to resist signing those papers which would relinquish their guardianship of you?"

Harry was forced to admit, even if it was within the confines of his own mind; that the Dursleys would probably not even think twice about signing the papers.

After all, they would hardly need convincing for doing something that they'd been unable to do for the past 15 years, he thought darkly.

"No, they wouldn't last long sir, if at all." Is what he said instead, although he mumbled the last part, hinting at an unknown history there.

Severus for his part was fast loosing patience and decided to bring things to a quick end.

"Mr. Potter, if you value your life, you will listen to what the headmaster says and you will stop with the disrespect right now." Severus whispered in Potter's ears, hands clamped tightly onto his thin shoulders, restraining him from movement.

Harry's immediate reaction was to try to fight his hold and he cried out, "Let go of me!"

"Not until you give me an answer. We do this the easy way or we do it the hard way. Take your pick." Severus ordered, eyes trained on Albus intently, warning him not to interfere. If there was any chance of the bond working between them, then Severus needed to establish his control over the boy or this would all be worthless.

If he did not acknowledge Severus as his authority figure now, the bond would never settle, despite their wishes to the contrary.

At a discrete nod from Albus, Severus was assured that there would be no interference from him, regardless of what he would have to do to get Potter to submit to his authority.

"No! I don't care what you have to say but this is bond is not going to happen!"

"And get your grubby hands off of me!" Harry screamed in rage, the blood boiling in his veins at the mere thought of what they were asking of him; no, not asking him, telling him to do.

He didn't know where this anger was coming from but he was powerless to stop the rage that was coursing through him. His magic was slipping out, causing the scattered items on the table to shake imperceptibly, being nearest to him.

Quick as a fiddle, Severus's hands let go of his shoulders and one caught hold of his left ear, twisting it harshly and pulling on it, forcing Harry to stand if he didn't want his ear pulled out.

"Ouch! Ow, ow! Owww!"

"Stop it, what are you trying to do? Oww!"

"Let go! Ow!"

Every word out of his mouth that was not an apology, Severus kept his iron grip on his ear, twisting it now and again, as if reprimanding an unruly child.

"Alright! Alright! Ow! I'm sorry!"

"Happy now?" Harry asked disrespectfully, rewarded with another harsh twist.

"I want no more cheek from you Mr. Potter. Have you learnt your lesson yet or do you want me to explain some more." Severus asked warningly, his tone smooth as silk, belying his displeasure.

"Ow! Ok! I apologize, headmaster. I will try to keep a cool head, sir."

"I'm sorry for my loss of control." He added quickly at a warning twist of Snape's bony fingers.

Seeing that Snape had yet to let go of his now very tender and red ear, he tried to awkwardly move around to face him, only to be met with a dark scowl.

He didn't know why he felt the need to apologize to the greasy bastard, but nevertheless he did.

"I'm sorry, Professor Snape. I will try to be more respectful in future." He added in a small voice, unsure whether his apology would be accepted.

Severus let go of his ear suddenly and said smoothly, "Apology accepted." As if he had not spent the last few minutes berating Harry for his bad manners.

Harry rubbed his tender ear, trying to ease the pain, when he was guided back to his chair and at a slight push from Snape sat down again. This time however, he looked back and met his professors dark eyes, unreadable as ever, before he turned back to face the headmaster, unsure whether he'd found what he was searching for.

In the interests of moving things along, Severus summarized the bond for Harry.

"The bond is a guardianship- marriage bond. As you are still a student here, till the time of your graduation, I will be your legal and magical guardian. You will spend the summer with me and return with me to the school at the end of our summer vacation. During the school year, I will fulfill my role as teacher and guardian and take an active part in your school life, keeping things in order." He stated in his customary deep, rich voice.

Seeing that he'd caught Harry's attention, he continued on with the next part.

"After you graduate, we will be officially bonded as a married couple after which the bond will recognize the change from guardian to spouse when the marriage is consummated."

"Consummated?" Harry squeaked out.

"Yes, Potter. I believe even you know what consummation means or if that's too difficult for your brain to understand, we have to have sex." Severus replied snidely.

"Or is it that you need 'the bird and the bees' talk?" Severus asked with a smirk.

"No! I do not need 'the talk' from you." He muttered, embarrassed by what they were discussing

"I know enough." He mumbled, eyes downcast, his face flushing a bright red.

"Well then, since we have that out of the way, what are your thoughts Harry?" Albus asked breaking the awkward silence that stretched between them.

"Is there anything else about the bond that I must know?" Harry asked in a quiet voice, pretty much resigned in his mind as to what was going to be his decision.

"The bond is permanent and infidelity is not allowed." Severus stated, wanting Potter to know what he was getting into before he made his decision.

At the same time, he knew certain things were better left unsaid till they had a better relationship holding them together.

There would be time enough later to explain the other restrictions of the bond.

"Alright; I accept this bond and Professor Snape." Harry answered with a serious look on his face.

"When are we supposed to perform the bond?" He asked quizzically, looking between the two.

Severus was pleasantly surprised when the boy did not put up a fuss again. He'd been expecting another outburst but Potter seemed calm enough, his magic also having settled considerably since the start of their conversation.

He looked to Albus for guidance as even he was not too sure about how to proceed from here.

Severus was saved from having to answer when Albus replied with a pleased smile,

"Preferably at dawn tomorrow, before you all leave for the summer. Dawn is the best time for entering bonds. It is after all akin to a new beginning in life." Albus stated happily; glad to see that both his boys would have a chance at happiness, even though it did not seem like it now.

"Severus and Harry; both of you will spend the night in my quarters. I have ample room for two guests. This will ensure that we can get things started at the right time and as an added bonus, there will be fewer questions asked if no one catches you trying to sneak out of your dorm so early in the morning." Albus informed them, not brooking any arguments from them.

"I will arrange for the robes that are required for the simple ceremony. Dawn will be at 5 a.m. tomorrow. Make sure that you are awake and showered before then. Wear the robes and meet me here. We will make our way up to the turret and perform the bond with the suns' rays just beginning to shine on us. After that, we will break fast together, before you are allowed to go about the rest of your duties."

"I will then inform the school of the changes before everyone departs from school, giving everyone ample time to come to grips with the new situation."

With that said; Albus rose from behind the desk and motioned for the two of them to follow him. He took them to a tapestry covered wall. On parting it, they were met with the site of an intricate phoenix knocker with the sharp beak open. Albus placed his hand in it and held the tip of his index finger at the tip of its beak. Quick as lightning, the beak pierced the skin and sampled the blood, the wards recognizing Albus immediately. Motioning the other two to do the same, Albus waved his wand in a complex pattern adding them to the wards, allowing them to pass into his rooms.

The phoenix knocker flashed gold, before the outline of a door materialized in the wall and solidified. There was a small bronze handle, which Albus grasped immediately and pushed the door open, entering it silently.

Severus and Harry followed suit, the door sliding shut with a soft click, the presence of a door masked once again.

Albus' rooms were quite spacious. There was a sitting room, a small kitchen, a large bedroom and a smaller guest room for the occasional family member that came to visit him. There was even a personal library, although quite small.

Albus was giving them the tour, allowing them to familiarize themselves with the place before settling in.

A glance at the library had Severus literally salivating; the mere thought that he was the first one with access to Dumbledore's private collection of books enough to make him feel giddy.

Albus shared a fond, knowing look with Harry before he said, "You are most welcome to go through the library if you would like to do some light reading before retiring for the night."

Severus refrained from expressing his glee, although he realized that he was not quite successful if the amused faces of his companions were any indication.

With only a slight upturn of his lips to indicate his pleasure, Severus inclined his head and replied, "That is most generous of you, Albus. Thank you."

"Call Tipsy if you require anything, be it food or any other necessities."

"The guest rooms are through there; just follow the passage and you will see two doors at the end, both are for guests. They're a bit unused but still in livable conditions." He pointed it out to them.

"I will see you both bright and early, tomorrow morning. The robes will be in your rooms. Shower and dress yourselves in the garments provided before meeting me in the sitting room."

"Remember, you are not to break your fast until the bond is completed." Albus reminded them with a look, warning them not to forget it.

"Good night then, my boys. Get a good night's rest. We have much to do tomorrow."

And so saying, Albus left to floo call one of his close associates who owed him a few favors to arrange for the robes. Ceremonial robes were not everybody's cup of tea and they were generally quite difficult to find on short notice.

---

Morning came too soon for the occupants in the headmaster's quarters.

Harry had experienced an uneasy sleep. Although the room were well furnished and the bed quite comfortable, it was the thought of what was to come ahead that had given Harry the restlessness that was the cause for his lack of sleep.

He'd been awake for the past half hour, waiting for it to be a decent time so that he could shower and be ready before the break of dawn. He wasn't really sure how to feel about all this. He'd never really thought what he would do after his schooling; have girlfriends, party, become an auror; so many things really; but never in his wildest dreams would he have thought that he wouldn't even have the opportunity to choose what he wanted.

This bond was forcing him onto a path from which there was no turning back, no matter what the cost, he thought; not without a little resentment.

Only in the dark of the night, alone in his room with only his thoughts for company had the full ramifications of entering into such a bond had made itself known to him. And frankly, it scared the shit out of him. He didn't really know how his life was going to go on from here, but for sure as hell it was not going to be an easy ride, he thought with a grim sense of certainty.

Deciding he'd procrastinated long enough; Harry got out of bed and headed to the bathroom. A flash of something shiny caught his eye and he headed towards the ottoman instead.

True to the headmaster's word, a brand new set of robes was gracing the ottoman at the foot of the bed.

Fingering the robe, he was pleasantly surprised to feel the soft, velvety texture of the cloth.

The robe was a steel gray in color with intricate runes embroidered in black thread, undoubtedly magical in origin.

It was sleeveless, with embroidery running around the stiff Chinese collar. The robe split down the centre at the front, the embroidery running all the way to the ends of the robes. There were slits down the sides, allowing for free movement.

On further inspection, he found an inner robe, made in a soft white fabric, perfectly offsetting the dark grey outer robe. This had long sleeves, ending in a point at his wrist, again allowing for unfettered movement in the robe.

Setting it down again, taking care not to crease it, Harry made his way to the bathroom, now having considerably less time in which to get ready.

---

Severus himself was in much the same state. Only, he knew exactly what he was getting into. It was not something he chose to dwell on too much. He had adapted to worse situations in his role as spy. At least in this situation, they had a whole year to get used to each other; before they would be forced to consummate their marriage bond.

He'd showered and dressed and was resplendent in the severe robes, the style flattering his lean figure. He'd washed his hair and it was now quite silky and soft, a far cry from his normal lank hair, greasy due to the fumes from the potions.

At a knock on his door, Severus whirled around and stalked to the door; he opened it just in time to prevent further knocking to reveal Albus Dumbledore.

Albus was for once dressed in solid colors, his robes a beautiful dark purple, with runes embroidered in silver thread.

"Ah, I see you are ready to go, Severus. I hope you slept well…" Albus asked him with a pleased smile.

"Well enough, under the circumstances." Severus drawled in a quiet tone, his emotions once again masked expertly.

"Let us collect Harry and be on our way, then. Dawn approaches."

---

It was a scant ten minutes later that found all three of them making their way up the tower to its small round terrace, boasting a clear view of the Hogwarts grounds.

The terrace itself was quite small but could easily accommodate up to 10 people at a time.

Albus instructed them to stand facing east, allowing the sun's rays to touch them as dawn crept up and the sun rose over the horizon.

He himself stood facing west, with a small crystal orb clasped between his hands.

The orb helped to focus the magical energy.

"Gentlemen, shall we begin?" Albus asked with a searching look directed at them. When he received two nods of acknowledgement; albeit one more slowly than the other, he gave an answering nod before moving forward to clasp their hands.

Holding the orb in his left hand, he used his right to grasp Severus's right hand and placed it on Harry's right hand and directed him to clasp it tightly, this position forcing them to turn slightly towards each other while still facing east.

Albus clasped the orb in both hands once again and closed his eyes, focusing himself before reciting the chant, which would invoke the magic to witness and bless their bond.

He could feel the wind pick up slightly, gently wafting over their skin, bringing the scents of orange blossoms and wild honeysuckle with it. Just one whiff of the delicate fragrances invigorated them, awakening their senses and causing their own magical cores to sing in rapture.

Knowing that the first part had been successful; Albus indicated to their joined hands and motioned them to change pose to reflect the second step. They straightened their hands and placed it flush with the other; each hand now resting lightly against the other in the eternal prayer pose.

As the guardian, it was now Severus's turn to indicate his acknowledgement and acceptance of his duties towards his ward and make his promise to him.

"Harry James Potter, I acknowledge and accept you as my ward, mine to care for, mine to protect and mine to educate to the best of my abilities." His rich voice flowed over Harry like smooth honey, addictive in its sweetness.

"As a guardian, I vow to be your fiercest protector and a hard yet fair task master.

I will provide for all your needs, emotional and physical."

With each succeeding vow, Harry was starting to feel overwhelmed; the combined feel of Severus's magic and his own mingling together causing a head rush.

Severus's magic had managed to encompass him fully, blanketing him in a comfortable feeling, one unlike any he'd experienced so far.

"In return, I expect you to respect me, obey my rules within reason and learn from my teachings and perform to the best of your abilities in every academic stream."

"Do you swear to accept me as your guardian and in time as your husband? To love and to protect; to stay by my side through out all the hardships that we may face?"

"Do you, Harry James Potter, accept me as your guardian and dominant?"

Severus finished quietly and locked dark eyes with Harry, the question hanging in the air, awaiting a response.

Harry shook himself mentally and forced himself to concentrate and fulfill his part of the vow. Taking a deep breath, he began in a quiet voice, the barest hint of a quiver in his voice.

"Severus Salazar Snape, I acknowledge and accept you as my guardian, yours to care for, yours to protect and yours to educate to the best of your abilities."

"I promise to respect you, obey your rules within reason and to learn from you and to excel in my studies to the best of my abilities."

As each question was answered, the magic surrounding them began to coalesce into a visible brightness that cloaked their bodies.

"I swear to accept you as my guardian and protector and in time as my husband. I swear to love and to protect you and stay by your side through any hardships that we may face."

Harry's voice rang with sincerity as he answered the last question.

"I, Harry James Potter, accept you, Severus Salazar Snape as my guardian and dominant."

The magic that had surrounded them pulsed brightly once, accepting their vows.

Just as the sun's rays touched them, the magic pulsed once more before being sucked into their bodies in a flash of golden light, making them feel giddy and light headed all at once.

To seal the ceremony, a chaste kiss was to be shared between the two before they would be free to depart from the bonding site.

Severus, knowing what needed to be done, quickly caught hold of Harry's shoulders and brought him closer, tilting his head back slightly to make up for the height difference and gently placed a kiss on his lips. Not waiting for a response, Severus quickly backed away, turning to Albus; who indicated that the bonding was complete and successful with a pleased nod of his head, his eyes twinkling brightly at the scene he'd witnessed.

Shaking his head slightly, he felt that his head was slowly clearing; the high from the bonding having muddled his brain a little. He had not expected such an intense reaction to the magic that rose during their bonding, he thought with an unhappy frown.

In future, he would have to be very careful if he did not want to make a fool of himself, Severus thought, flustered at what had occurred during the bonding.

"Are we done with the necessities?" Severus asked Albus brusquely, desperately wanting to get away from there as soon as possible.

Albus scrutinized him over the tops of his half moon spectacles before deigning to reply calmly, "Yes…the bond itself is complete. All we have to do now is break fast together before we can be free to continue on with our respective duties."

"Then let's get to it, if that's all there is left to it." Severus urged in an uncharacteristic show of unease, the normally stoic and unflappable man visibly shaken by the experience.

Harry himself was in no better shape and was readily agreeable to Severus' suggestion.

With a quick jerky nod of his head, he reiterated the thought.

"Alright then, seeing as the bond is established; you should have received the blessings of magic in the form of a marking that is symbolic to the two of you." Albus informed them.

"The bond will have registered in the book automatically, saving us the trouble and when Lucius tries to transfer guardianship, it will return as invalid thus foiling his plans nicely."

With a relieved smile and a quiet yet pleased, "Let us return to our quarters, my boys", Albus motioned them to precede him down the tower and back to his chambers to break fast together.

---

On arriving at the headmaster's quarters, Severus and Harry were immediately ushered into the sitting room while the headmaster went about requesting the elves to prepare a light breakfast for three.

Severus had settled with a resigned sigh onto the couch with Harry, something that he was loath to do; unfortunately, it was a requisite that the partners share and break fast together and so he really had no other choice.

Albus joined them shortly thereafter, seating himself on a plush armchair opposite the two men; the oval, glass centre table situated in between.

With a quiet pop, Tipsy (Albus' main elf) entered and set the tray containing toast, jam & butter, a variety of cheeses, fresh fruits like peaches & pears, fruit juices and two steaming pots, one of tea and the other of coffee.

With a respectful bow to the occupants, the elf vanished.

Severus quickly picked up the plates and served them both some buttered toast with jam on the side, a slice of cheese and a fresh ripe peach; handing one plate to Harry before taking the other for himself.

Albus helped himself to some of the food and a quick blessing later, they dug into the food.

Everyone was quiet, the only sounds being the sounds of the cutlery hitting the plate and the steady small sounds of people eating their food.

By serving Harry first, Severus was reaffirming that he would take care of and provide for Harry no matter what those needs may be. In turn, Harry's acceptance reaffirmed his own position within the bond.

Albus having witnessed the rite also dug into his own breakfast.

He was startled out of his musings when Severus' harsh reprimand registered in his ears.

"Coffee is not good for you. You will either drink light tea, milk or juice but coffee is strictly off-limits." Severus was quite clear in his views.

Caffeine was quite harmful to those quite young and Potter was not going to fall into the same habit that he had picked up at that age; not if he had anything to say about it, he thought with a determined, implacable look on his face.

"Who made you the boss?" Harry retorted, displeased at being told what to do.

"I like coffee and I want some now, seeing as it's the last day of school and I won't get to have it again for a few months." Harry belligerently replied, intent on drinking coffee.

"Well, seeing as you won't be getting it at all in summer, all the more reason not to flood your body with unnecessary toxins", Severus replied acerbically. He narrowed his eyes at Harry, silently warning him not to push him, lest he be unwilling to deal with the consequences.

For once, Harry seemed to sense his fraying patience and grudgingly backed down with a muttered, "Fine" and settled for pouring some light tea into the cup instead.

Nursing his own cup of coffee, Severus fixed his eyes on Harry and said,

"After breakfast you are free to visit with your friends. Pack your bags and be ready. You will not be boarding the Express but we will be leaving ourselves latest by midday, ideally as early as possible after all the students have departed from the school."

"Inform only your friends about the bond but not the reasons for it", Severus cautioned Harry.

"We do not know for sure if Lucius will follow through with his plans and at this point we cannot afford any more black marks against you. We are in a problematic situation as it is and we do not need to complicate it any further." Severus stressed, a frown marring his angular face.

"Is that clear?" Severus prompted sternly when no reply was coming forth, Harry seemingly absorbed in his meal.

"Crystal" Harry finally mumbled, wanting to get away as fast as possible. He didn't know how his friends were going to take the news, especially without all the reasons behind entering such a bond.

"I can't eat anymore. Can I go see my friends now?" Harry addressed the headmaster, deciding he'd had enough of breakfast (and the company).

"It's 'May I go' and yes you may leave. Severus has already informed you about the day's schedule. You are to defer to Severus in all matters from now on, unless stated otherwise." The headmaster corrected him before excusing him.

"And I don't think I need to stress how important this is. If there is even a hint of wrongdoing on your part, there could be serious problems for us all." The headmaster cautioned Harry, forcing Harry to acknowledge how serious the situation was.

"I understand, Sir; and I'll try my best not to jeopardize it." Harry reassured the headmaster before taking a quick look at Severus. When he found that Snape was looking at him, he quickly took his leave from him and got up from his place on the couch and made his way towards the door leading out.

Just as he reached the door, he heard the headmaster call out, "Oh and the password has been reset to 'ice-mints' if you need to come to me for any reason" and giving an answering reply of "Will do, Sir", Harry opened the door and stepped out, on his way to find his friends before they left for the summer.

---

Please read and review! This will be a multi-chapter fic, so comments are always welcome :D