Author's Note: So A Family Matter received a few inquiring on weather or not it would continue. I believe I shall indeed make it a story. This will be the continuation/beginning. As you'll note I have rated this M because it will contain scenes of violence/torture and I did not want to take the chance. Unlike A Family Matter, which deals just with a one shot scene. In this piece you'll see how Severus and Remus became 'mates' more or less anyways. You'll see what happened to lead to Severus being discovered. How Lucius Saved him and what Severus did to protect his friends and family during the battle. Hopefully this will give the explanations to my little random plot bunny. I honestly didn't think it would be popular or really interesting to anyone but myself. Glad you guys liked A Family Matter and I'm hoping you'll like. It Leads to a Family Matter.

I would also like to ask if there is anyone interested in being a Beta for my work please PM me I could really use a Beta

Disclaimer: I own nothing. All the characters belong to the amazing J. K. Rowling. If you want the real story read her absolutely amazing books!


The burn of the mark on his arm was different then other times. This time it was more urgent. More painful. If Severus was being honest with himself, he would wonder why that was. He was of course used to the agony, after all the Dark Lord thrived on causing pain he didn't even give it a second thought as he rose smoothly from his seat at the table. Complete silence fell around the table at Grimmauld Place. Around him all eyes focused on him. He took only a moment to look into Albus's worried gaze. Though in the last four the Order had somehow started to see he wasn't just a tool to be used. Something that still surprised Severus.

"He summons," Severus stated simply. All around the table recognition dawned on the shocked faces. Gasps and in some cases cries of fear went up at this. Severus paid them no head. He turned instead and stalked out of the room in smooth graceful movements. The loud bang of the front door announcing his departure to the Order.

Severus did as he always did. He apparated to Hogwarts before grabbing the Dark Mark and apparating to the Dark Lord's side. He had learned long ago that to apparate from a certain location gave the Dark Lord the ability to see where he had been when he touched the mark to apparate. It would not be safe to do so at the Headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix. He closed his eyes momentarily. Took out his Death Eater robes and mask. Slipped them on and walked gracefully up the path towards Riddle Manor. His breath hitched at the sight that greeted him. The front door held a small form pinned to it's wood by thick black spikes. Severus shivered in revulsion at the sight. A quick glance confirmed his desperate hope, the small child was dead. A small mercy, but it was all he could hope for given the creature who owned this house. Severus couldn't afford to dwell on the horror of what this child would have suffered or he'd be violently sick. This was only one gruesome reminder of why the creature who ran this band of insane nutjobs had to die. He had no solace in that his fellow Death Eaters were not every inch the same cruel insane creatures the Dark Lord was. As most where. He only knew of four who were mildly sane. He still had hope that he could recruit those four and their families to fight against the evil that was the Dark Lord.

At first when he had joined Lucius in this, he had wanted to see the Wizarding world made stronger and more protected from the Muggle world. A chance to prevent more children from suffering the fate of his childhood. Where his muggle father had hated him because he was a half-blooded wizard. The cruelty of his father's hatred and fear of magic had led to drinking and a series of too painful memories for Severus. All he'd ever wanted was to make sure wizards nd witches did not marry muggles like his father. That however, was not what had happened and it pained him deeply. As the creature grew more insane he realized just how wrong he'd been to follow the madman. The only solace from that, was that Lucius hadn't known the level of cruelty, insanity and evil that the Dark Lord was. Now they all knew. For Severus it had all come to a head over a single moment. He had wanted out long before that, but he hadn't been brave enough to take that potentially deadly step, until the war came to his doorstep. When it was apparent that the one thing he would never allow to happen would. He took that step and then some.

He had hoped after the Dark Lord fell that it was finally over, even though he had known it wasn't. It would only be over when there was a body. A body that was well and truly dead. How he longed for a time when the war was finally done, when the Dark Lord was well and truly dead. For that end Severus was willing to die. He had always been willing to pay with his life for his crimes. Now though as he walked to face that nightmare, he didn't want to die. If only because one very special man waited in the Order's Headquarters for him. No doubt worried sick. He wished silently that he had given his mate a parting hug and kiss good-bye in case he didn't return. That was his only regret.

Now, risen again, he was back at it. Fighting for the light, while being thought to be of the dark. Severus walked side by side with Lucius through that doorway. He saw how Lucius cringed back from the door as though the sight affected him as much as it did Severus. He hoped it would. He hoped it would help him in his efforts to convince Lucius to turn away from the Dark Lord completely. For Draco's sake if for no other reason. Severus had to shut his eyes as he thought of Draco, the overwhelming pain that this thought brought was almost enough to break Severus's ice cold mask. Draco would be taking the Dark Mark in a months time. He had been given an assignment of sorts to prove he was worthy of the Mark and given a month to complete it. This was the length of time that Severus had left before he lost Draco. He swallowed back the lump of pain and sorrow that rose in his throat unbidden. Forced his mind to the task. Cleared everything away. Blank. He had to be blank.

They made their way to the 'throne room' where the Dark Lord sat on his throne with his snake wrapped around it's base. Three muggles floated in the air before him. Spinning around in slow circles. So that as the circle formed around him every Death Eater could see the family. What made Severus's breath catch was the terrified small child. There between his parents. He met the terrified eyes and vowed to see the child die quickly before it could be tortured or worse. It was all he could give. It was the only mercy left now. Severus hated himself for what he would have to do.

"My Death Eaters. Tonight is a glorious night!" The Dark Lord said with a wicked smile curving his lips. "Tonight we will finally have the location where they hide the child that defied me. Tonight I will show you what I do to traitors!" The Dark Lords burning eyes turned to Severus and he felt his throat constrict. No this couldn't be happening. "To start a little muggle sporting I think is in order," the Dark Lord continued on. "Ssssseverusssss why don't you show us how we treat our little guest?"

Severus shivered at the way the Dark Lord hissed out his name. It made him tremble ever so slightly. He met the frightened child's eyes and without speaking a word raised his wand and cast the one curse that would end his life. As the green light hit the smallest muggle the Dark Lord hissed angrily. This had not been what he'd wanted. Good. If Severus was going to be tortured for being a traitor then he'd give the muggles the only mercy he could. With another flick of his wand he ended the woman's life just as quickly. He raised his wand one final time. Seeing the gratitude in the male's eyes he sent the final spell he would cast to the man. Certain now as the cruciatus hit him from four different places he'd be dead.

Severus didn't stand a chance. With the four spells hitting him square on while he took care of the muggles he screamed. Pain unlike any he'd ever suffered before raced through his blood. Sending it boiling. He could feel the blood pouring from his nose. His mouth open in a blinding scream of agony. He couldn't even fight it. Not like he usually did. His body crumpled to the floor his wand falling from his loose grip. The twitching sent him crashing into the pillar behind him. Snapping the bones in his arm. He felt as if the very flesh was being stripped from his bones. His back arched up from the floor and his head slammed solidly into the stone floor.

As fast as it had begun the spells ended one by one. Until only one layer of that agony remained and even it slowly withdrew. It took him a long time to hear anything past the pounding waves of pain flashing through his head. The blinding agony that had turned his vision into a hazy field of grey blobs. His whole body still twitched and shivered and pain kept crashing through him in waves. He felt sweat dripping from his nose and coating most of his body. He shivered with cold.

"I'm disappointed Severus," the Dark Lord hissed as he walked towards him. "I was hopping you'd prove me wrong. Shame that you didn't leave one for us to play with. That means we'll need to hear your screams instead. You didn't do yourself any favours by killing them Severus. I will not spare you."

Severus blinked his eyes trying to clear the haze. Trying to clear his mind. Thankful that his shields still held in his mind. Blocking the important information away. His eyes were unfocused and his heart was pounding painful in his chest. His breathing slow and ragged. He felt the intense burning pain in his mind as his eyes met the Dark Lords.

Many people thought Occlumency was just a single layer of defence, but for those who truly mastered it like Severus it held many layers. Very much like a maze. Layers upon layers of defence. The one that held all his most secured secrets was kept in the very 'centre', if one could look at it that way, of his mind. Surrounding it were lesser secrets. Memories he didn't want anyone to find out, but that wouldn't hurt anyone but him and on the outside of that everything else resided. All the layers where shielded with as strong as he could make them shields constructed from his element, earth. Focusing on an element was an older far more unknown way to use occlumency. It was not only stronger, but also harder to maintain, create and required much more energy. He had of course readily available memories that were behind a very thin and unstable occlumency shield that gave just enough resistance to make it hard for the Dark lord to get in, but not impossible. The rest was layered in a maze like grid behind shields that had not yet been breached.

The pain grew until Severus was quivering and more blood seeped from his nose staining his robes. He was quite glad he wore black. The first barrier shattered. Which he'd expected. However, as the Dark Lord flashed the images through his mind he was left dizzy and in more pain. The pain he knew was deliberate. The Dark Lord slammed against the second barrier and Severus screamed in pain. His cries earned laughter from the Death Eaters in the circle.

Severus lost track of time as his mind was assaulted again and again until his raw throat couldn't scream anymore. His eyes closed. Tears streamed down his face mixing with the blood. His head was pounding almost as bad as his joints. The aches of his body was growing. He slowly began to loose consciousness.


FOUR WEEKS BEFORE


"He's late," Alastor 'Mad-Eye' Moody said darkly. The 'again' wasn't spoken, but everyone knew it.

"I told you he's a traitor! Snivellous is a good for nothing slimey git! He's probably getting his greasy hair patted for betraying us all!" Sirius began ranting as he usually did any time Severus was brought up at the meetings.

"You wouldn't be referring to me would you Mutt?" Severus said sliding into his seat and startling everyone except Moody and Albus who'd seen him entering.

"Severus, why are you late?" Albus asked before Sirius could respond or get more rilled up by the angry glare he was giving Severus. It was evident by the dark scowl and the fact he whipped his head around to stare at Severus that he'd been taken off guard by the silent man's arrival. Albus was used to that. Severus had never made much noise if any at all. It was almost eerie just how quiet he'd been as a child.

"I got delayed," Severus drawled in that cold detached voice. His features a blank mask. His long black greasy hair seemed to be slightly stringy and clumped together on the left side of his head. A dark sheen of liquid coated that side of his hair. Though Albus was fairly certain it was blood he didn't see any evidence of a wound. Certainly no sign of a concussion was present, which reassured Albus. Though the tightness in his movements made Albus gaze intently at the Potions Master. It was evident to Albus, Molly, Alastor and Remus that something wasn't right with Severus, but no one said anything. The four only watched the man intently as he began his report.

"The Dark Lord has ordered that the ministry be further infiltrated. He seeks greater control of it then he already has. The reports that the Daily Prophet are already issuing are being heavily suggested by his agents inside the Ministry, there is however some divide in the Ministry over the validity of your claim to his return. He is not directly responsible for Umbridges assignment to your staff Headmaster, but he is very pleased with it. She is a cruel woman who is a strong support of his, even though she does not bear the mark. Any witch or wizard who is not pureblood is considered scum and any half-breed is considered a dangerous monster to be put down." His dark obsidian gaze shifted to Remus, "Lupin you are well acquainted with her Werewolf legislations I presume." Severus stated quite coldly before going on with his report.

"He is working strongly on recruitment. Especially amongst the Death Eater family. I know there are eight children who are to be of age within the next month that are being sighted for initiation. He is also looking at taking two children that are underage. Both are single children and direct heirs to extremely influential families. I know at least one will be sent into hiding if we can facilitate such thing, we will earn another spy amongst his ranks. Though I would be leery of entrusting him with any great secrets, his Occlumency shields are no were near strong enough. For low level operations and without being given specific requests or meeting dates I believe he's got a strong chance of being useful to the war effort. He has agreed to make his significant fortune available through a trust fund to the school to aid with families who are affected by the war," Severus deadpanned. Though it was a small victory to have earned another supporter amongst the Death Eater it was likely that the father wouldn't survive after his son went into hiding.

A variety of responses met those words. The Auror's around the table looked at Severus with varying degree of displeasure and doubt. Remus looked shocked. Sirius looked appalled. Molly looked terrified and fearful. No doubt concerned for the child, for once she learned his name she would realize he was the same age as her youngest son. Arthur looked concerned. Albus looked displeased. That shocked Severus more then anything.

"That is quite a risk Severus," Albus said softly, "If you are found out, we would loose a valuable source of information."

"The life of one young man being spared from the horrors and corruption that would come from taking the mark are worth that risk Albus. I would think you of all people would understand that," Severus drawled a tinge of anger tainting his words.

"Of course my boy, that is not what I meant. I am merrily concerned that you may be discovered due to this," Albus said gently.

"Who is it Severus?" Molly asked in concern.

"Theodore Nott," Severus stated simply.

"I know his father," Arthur stated simply, "he works in the magical law enforcement department at the Ministry."

"Can we get the boy into hiding?" Severus asked bluntly. Turning his dark gaze and blank emotionless face to Albus.

"Yes my boy, Kingsley you can handle the details?" Albus asked the Aurror.

"I will see it done, how long do we have?" Kingsley asked.

"Four weeks, he has longer before he is expected to take the mark, but let us not take a chance," Severus stated, "the Dark Lord can change his mind at any time."

"Who is the second child who was selected?" Albus inquired.

"Draco Malfoy. Lucius has not made a choice yet," Severus stated softly, "you must understand Albus, Lucius and his wife would be in grave danger if Draco were to go into hiding. Lucius, like me is in the top of the inner circle of the Dark Lord. To not present his son would be suicide."

"Then there is still a small amount of hope, it is not too late my boy. Something can yet be done," Albus replied soothingly. Knowing how scared Severus was for the teen. Molly felt her own fear growing. Thinking of the age of her youngest son, to think of him being drawn into this war. It was so horrifying. She had a hard time with her oldest being involved. She could not fathom a child being drawn into the war. It was too horrible.

"The Dementors have left Azakaban and are joining ranks with the Dark Lord's other creatures. I have been ordered to brew a series of healing potions, poisons and antidotes for the Dark Lord," Severus concluded of his report.

"Why were you delayed, it sounds like a typical meeting to me?" Remus asked softly. He could scent the blood from Severus and it worried him. Far more then it should. It was evident by the faint tint of amber in his otherwise soft eyes that Remus's wolf counterpart was close to the surface. Remus hadn't admitted his own feelings to anyone, except Sirius, he barely wanted to admit it to himself. He was drawn to Severus. To his strength and power. The wolf inside him was growling at the scent of blood from the other.

"The Dark Lord was disappointed in an experimental potion I brought him," Severus stated bluntly, "he held me back to show me his displeasure."

"What did he do?" Molly asked innocently. Severus quirked a brow at her. Did she honestly not know the answer to that. His gaze narrowed on the Weasley matriarch.

"He is no kinder to his follower's failure then he is to muggles," Severus answered simply. There was no reason to explain that he had been tortured after the Death Eater meeting in the private room of that vile creature. If they couldn't figure that out they were far too dense for his taste and he wouldn't enlighten them. "If we are concluded here I shall take my leave," Severus stated casting his gaze to Albus.

"Stay Severus, I need a word with you after the regular meeting is concluded," Albus replied. He knew Severus only asked to leave to tend to his injuries, which must be severe for him to draw attention to himself by asking to be dismissed. However, he couldn't afford to let the Potions Master leave. It was evident from the sluggish movements the man was making and the definite trembling in his hands, that could be seen by any who knew the usual sturdy grace of the Potions Master. That Severus was quite possibly mortally injured. Albus wanted to keep a close eye on the man and didn't want him to apparate to the school. It was a long trek through the Forbidden Forest. In his state he may well not be up to it. No Albus didn't want him leaving until he was certain he could coerce Severus into Poppy's office.

Severus nodded and fell into silence. It wasn't unusual for him to be silent, but Alastor kept a keen eye on male. He'd noticed something off in the stiff posture. The way Severus seemed to move his left side much more slowly then he usually moved. His right hand lay on top of his left hand, but the faintest trace of a twitch could be seen. The sleeve of his left side seemed to be slightly darker then the rest of his outfit. Upon closer inspection Alastor could see the slightly dark outlines of more stains on his clothing. Could it be blood Alastor wondered. He was no fool. He knew that Voldemort was insane and used torture on his followers as he did on his enemies. He'd seen Severus in various states of pain and injury throughout the first war and the first two months of Voldemort's return. It was that the man continued to do it and never even showed more then a slight tightening and stiffness to his movements to betray his state of health that showed his true strength. This worried Alastor greatly. He respect the man, even if he didn't particularly like him. He'd certainly worked tirelessly to keep the Order informed of plots that he knew of. Many death's were prevented by his actions. The man had so many secrets, Alastor always wondered, not where his loyalties lay, but what all he did for them.

Severus rose suddenly. Unsteadily. Swaying slightly as he stumbled back from the table. His hands pressed firmly into it's surface cutting Albus off mid sentence. Alastor and Remus both rose, but neither were quick enough as the man turned and stumbled from the kitchen. The two quickly followed the retreating form. Leaving the rest of the order in various states of shock and silence. Every eye focused on the blood stained hand print where his left hand had been.

Meanwhile out in the hallway Severus had made it four steps out of the kitchen before he threw up on the floor to the baleful shrieking of the Black Matriarch. The tall man was shaking uncontrollably and would have fallen to the floor if Remus hadn't reached him exactly then. Catching Severus in his arms. He felt his heart race as he looked down at the too pale face. Blood dripping from his lips. Remus shook almost as badly as the man had been before he'd lost consciousness. Alastor reached them and came to Severus's other side sliding the man's arm around his shoulder together with Remus they made their way to the den. Alastor cast a cleaning charm on the floor and blasted the curtains closed over the shrieking portrait.

They laid the Potion Master down on the couch and Remus knelt by his head. Slowly whipping the blood from his lips. His hand trailing through his hair. Tears slowly leaking from his eyes. It was evident that Severus's breathing was becoming harsh and laboured.

"ALBUS!" Alastor called loudly. Turning away from Remus and Severus as he limped quickly back to the door. The next moments were utter chaos. Albus and Molly raced into the room followed by most of the rest of the Order. Everyone was in a state of shock and uncertainty. No one really knew what to make.

"Alastor what is it?" Albus asked stopping in front of the clearly enraged Auror.

"We need a healer, can you get Poppy?" Alastor asked. Not waisting time explaining anything as met Albus's gaze and let the man's legilimens do the work for him. The images flashed in his mind quickly and Albus was moving to the floo.

"Do what you can with Molly while I'm gone. Kingsley disperse everyone who isn't needed, we'll resume the meeting once Severus is stable," Albus said as he grabbed the jar from the floo. Alastor, Kingsley and Molly quickly got to work. Kingsley was getting those who couldn't do anything into the kitchen and sending the teens upstairs since they too had come down to see what was going on. Soon Remus, Alastor and Molly were left alone in the den.

Molly took one look at the Potions Master and dashed off to the kitchen. Coming back with Arthur and a large bowl in her hands. Sirius followed Arthur and led him up the stairs and away from the group after Molly ordered him to get some clean linens and bandages.

Kneeling down next to Remus and Severus she instructed Remus to gingerly begin to undo all the tiny buttons on the shirt Severus was wearing. Remus regarded her, but nodded. They had to see the injuries that were hidden by the thick black robes. Molly started with the blood in his hair and to her great relief found no open wound to account for all that blood. Her bowl of water already turning pink from the saturated cloth. As Remus began to gingerly remove the large outer robe it was evident that a lot more blood covered Severus then what any of them had thought. Parting the front of his robes exposed a series of lashes on his chest that were slowly leaking a stead stream of red. The dark bruising over his ribs indicated they were either bruised or broken and from his laboured breathing it was evident at least one lung was punctured. Sirius and Arthur returned with their arms laden with linens. Sirius saw the expression on Remus's face and new it was bad. He was beside his friend quickly. When he looked down at the lash marks layered over scars Sirius gasped and dropped the arm load he was carrying. Molly and Alastor got to work cleaning the cuts of the dirt that was evidently caked in the wounds.

Sirius grabbed Remus and pulled him back. Letting Arthur go in to help. Holding the shaking werewolf Sirius remembered what Remus had told him a few weeks back.

-Flashback-

Remus clutched a book in his hand his breathing erratic as he pushed the door to Sirius's room open. The banging of the door caused Sirius to sit up suddenly startled.

"Remus what the -" his words died at the look on Remus's face. Tears were flowing down his face. He held out the book in a shaky hand to Sirius. Sirius took it as Remus collapsed onto the bed next to him. His head laid in his hands as he wept silently Sirius looked down at the page. The thin spirally and angular writing was in a very familiar hand, but for the life of him Sirius couldn't place it.

*Werewolves do not retain their human mind during transformation. This makes them incredibly dangerous to the humans around them, even deadly. The werewolf will only head the call of it's own kind during the transformed state.*

If a Werewolf could retain it's human mind during it's transformation then it would render the werewolf inert. Making him no more dangerous then a dog or tamed familiar wolf. Research into this field is extremely limited. The basic formula for a potion that eases transformation to the Werwolf state by Damocles. If this formula was further worked until it could hold the human mind within the werewolf form then it would solve the problem I find myself facing.

After that brief entry as if this was some kind of journal there was a very complicated series of formula to make what looked like the wolfsbane potion. Though Sirius didn't know much about advanced potions as he'd never had much of a head for Potions. Though he had taken it to NEWT level to become an Auror. What he could see was the series of redactions and notes crammed into every single available space until the formula was barely legible under all the scribbles. Still very lost and confused about why this would make Remus react like he was Sirius kept reading.

Trial batch nine is complete. This time it is stable. No damage to the lab issued. I am quite glad as I was getting rather tired of containing explosions. Though I must admit that after four years worth of work on this I am very excited to see if it's affect on the test subject as as effective as they were on the blood samples. I will have to wait another two weeks before I receive any data on my hypothesis. Though I would have preferred to be documenting the process myself it is much better to record the results that I will get from the questionnaire I have sent out. I doubt that the chosen subject of my experimentation would do well with learning who will be providing this potion.

No I was quite wrong it would have been much simpler to have tied the subject down and observed the transformation myself. The sentimental dribble that I had to sift through in order to obtain the information I required to finish this project was absolutely horrendous. Solution for the next test request only memory samples via an pensieve.

Conclusion. The test subject was able to retain the majority of it's human mind allowing for a complete transformation without self inflicted injury and little to no risk of human harm. The subject expressed increase in pain in returning to human form which is a side effect I was not expecting. The mild allergic reaction to the treatment was an expected side effect I am currently working to overcome. I firmly believe my next batch will eliminate both of these problems. At which time I shall present this completed potion along with my thesis as my entrance demonstration for my Potions Mastery prior to undertaking their tests and examination.

Sirius dropped the journal at those words. That tone. Those words. This was Severus's journal. Staring at it with a mix of revulsion and shock Sirius turned to Remus.

"How did you get this?" Sirius asked in a bare whisper.

"When I was leaving Hogwarts it was sitting on the bottom shelf of his office. Just slightly sticking out. I nicked it before I left with the last batch. Sirius do you know what this means?" Remus asked in a trembling voice.

"No," Sirius answered honestly.

"Read the date Sirius, On the top of that entry," Remus pressed. Sirius did.

"That was a week after the prank," Sirius whispered shocked. "Remus he'd have been sixteen."

"Yes and that would have made him nineteen years old when he completed the first Wolfsbane potions Sirius. Do you remember when I got the letter from Dumbledore. Asking for three vials of my blood. One just before the transformation, one just after, and one half way between both full moons. Because I still remember. It stated that someone Dumbledore knew was working on developing a potion that would help werewolves to retain their human minds," Remus went on to explain. "That sentimental dribble as he put it was the long letter I wrote instead of just filling out the paperwork that had been sent with the first flask of potion."

"Are you telling me that the 'secret potions master' we toasted that night at a celebratory dinner was Snivellous?" Sirius asked. Staring at Remus in utter shock.

"Yes, but it's more then that Siri, we thought that that was why he hated us so much. Because of that prank. We were wrong, Siri. He helped me. Even after you and James did that to him. Instead of just hating us, he made something that changed my life forever Siri. I've always wanted to know who made that potion and why. Now, now I don't know what to think," Remus said so softly. It was clear to both of them in that moment just what Remus was saying.

"It doesn't change anything," Sirius said adamantly.

"You're wrong Siri. It changes everything," Remus said very softly. Taking the book back reverently. He would return this to Severus somehow he vowed silently. He'd just have to make sure he didn't get killed doing it.

Sirius had sat stunned as he watched Remus leave. His mind awhirl with thoughts and emotions he couldn't identify.

-End Flashback-

Sirius looked down at the man bleeding out on his couch. -It changes everything.- How right Remus had been. Even Sirius didn't have the level of loathing and hatred for Severus he'd had before reading that paper. Somehow he just couldn't bring himself to hate him like that anymore. He still snapped and instigated verbal wars with Severus, but the venom wasn't there. It was just fun now. He noticed that Severus had caught the change, but still kept up the bantering between them. Sirius wondered how long that had been for show too. There was so much to Severus he didn't understand. He realized that now, just like Remus did.

It was the state Remus was in now that really rammed home to Sirius that Remus didn't just begin to like Severus. He'd fallen for him. Sirius looked down at Remus, "you really like like him now don't you?" Sirius whispered and felt Remus nod. "You have to tell him Moony. You owe it to yourself to give him the change.

"I-if I do-o you ca-can't keep cal-alling him na-ames," Remus stuttered out in broken speech. His voice so low Sirius had to strain to hear him.

"I'll try Moony. For you I'll try," Sirius said gently hugging Remus tighter as Poppy stepped out of the floo followed by Albus and Minerva. Poppy didn't hesitate as she rushed to Severus's side. Molly and Alastor stepped back. Giving Sirius a clear view of the weeping and gaping open wounds across his chest. Sirius had to turn away forcing Remus with him. The sight as Poppy Magiced his clothing the rest of the way off leaving him in his trousers exposed the twirling lash marks across his left arm to his shoulder. It looked as though he'd grabbed the lash and tried to rip it out of someone's hands. The lashes across his chest went from one side to the other and curled around. It was evident at least two or maybe three ribs were broken inwards and had definitely pierced his lung.

"What the hell happened?" Minerva growled in a low voice. Pain and fear laced her words.

"He was tortured," Poppy replied so softly they all stared at her, "Two fractured ribs, for broken ribs, left lung punctured, his left arm is fractured in three places, the lacerations to his chest and arm are quite deep and will need to be treated for contamination. If the diagnostic is correct he's been exposed to a dangerously high level of the cruciatus curse. Albus why was he tortured like this?"

Silence met her question as they all stared at the Potion Master. It wasn't until Alastor spoke that the true horror sank in to those that were present.

"Is this normal?" Alastor asked seeing that Poppy thought horrified at what she saw before her as she began the long process of healing Severus, she did not seem surprised.

"For him, yes," Poppy replied sadly. "Though he rarely comes to me and takes care of it himself."

"He heals himself from this?" Sirius gasped out in horror.

"More often then I'd like," Poppy nodded, focusing back on her task as everyone watched in total silence. No one moved or dared to speak as they watched her apply various potions and slaves, spelling more potions into his system then they had ever suspected possible. Watching the complex movements of her wand. Hours latter she fell exhausted onto the chair next to Severus.

The meeting had resumed leaving Molly and Poppy the only witness to the finishing of her healing. It had taken hours and as the meeting had finished. Those who remained for breakfast were sitting around the table or starting on the preparation. Some had come to check on the Medi-Witch's progress before heading out. Molly had left to go to the kitchen leaving Sirius and Remus once again sitting vigil over the two. When Poppy fell into the chair Remus leapt up and knelt by Severus's side. Taking his hand and refusing to leave even when breakfast was announced.

"I need to wake him for food Remus, he hardly eats enough most days," Poppy said gently pressing her hand on his shoulder. "He would not want anyone here when he wakes," she added very gently. She could see that Remus felt something for the dour man. She knew her own heart had taken him in like a son to her. Many of the females in the order were maternal towards Severus. He just didn't let them get close enough. Her eyes turned to look at Sirius, "can I trust you to hold your tongue?"

"Poppy our bantering is just joking. There is no ill intent between us," Sirius assured her. Not since that day. Not anymore. Things had changed. Remus was right. That journal entry had changed everything.

"Remus," Poppy called lightly as the man rose and began to walk out of the room. He stopped and looked back at her, "don't be alarmed by how little he eats, try not make a fuss out of it. He hates that," she reminded him gently. Knowing how possessive a werewolf could be. As they left Poppy took a vial out of her pocket and tipped the contents onto his lips. As soon as it touched his lips it turned into a vapour that hovered just above his mouth and slowly he inhaled it. His eyelids fluttered. Slowly opening to reveal obsidian eyes. He blinked slowly.

"Easy Severus, you've been hurt quite badly and are very lucky to be alive." Poppy said gently pressing his shoulder down as he made to sit up. "Get your bearings before you try to sit. I don't want you passing out before you eat breakfast."

Slowly Severus looked around. His head was pounding and he knew that was a result of the lack of oxygen he'd suffered before passing out. He was just grateful it wouldn't do any lasting damage. He could breathe a lot easier now. Though his chest and arm ached about as badly as his head. He was quite glad that Poppy had insisted he lay still. He was certain he'd have passed out if he'd sat up right away. Slowly he felt Poppy withdraw her hand and he pushed himself up slowly. He could feel the cool air on his chest and it felt wonderful. Though he did want to put clothing on he knew until the antibacterial ointment was fully absorbed that it was a large risk to cover the wounds.

"How long till you can bandaged and completely seal the cuts?" Severus asked as he looked at his arm. The cuts were barely still open, but no longer bleeding very much.

"At least another hour, though I really think that you will need another application of the antibacterial ointment before I can seal them completely," Poppy informed him. "The wounds were caked with mud Severus." Poppy explained at his look. He nodded that made sense. It had been raining. The ground where they had met had been muddy. He'd definitely fallen a few times. "What did you do to displease him this time?" Poppy inquired as he stayed still once he'd sat up all the way. Clearly trying to get used to the light headiness he must still be feeling.

"The potion wasn't to his liking," Severus stated simply. "I feel faintly ill Poppy, I do not think eating would be wise."

"I feared as much, take this it will help," Poppy told him holding out the vial. He took it without question and downed it. She was glad he'd told her how he felt, it was unusual. Then again there was a lot of people from the order still here. No doubt he feared the humiliation of admitting such weakness in front of them more then asking ahead of time. She steadied him as he rose to his feet. It was evident he was still quite weak. "You lost a lot of blood Severus, do you think you can walk to the kitchen?" Poppy informed him and asked. Knowing he would regardless of if he could or not. He nodded. Though he did allow her to take his elbow and steady him on his right side as he walked slowly from the den to the kitchen. He hesitated only briefly at the doorway. Looking at Sirius.

"Molly's made some boiled eggs with bacon, sausages, pancake and toast," Sirius said from his seat, "there's plenty for everyone. Come take a seat Snape."

This strange statement seemed to confirm something for Severus and he walked to the table without a word. Sitting down gratefully he looked up at Remus. "How long have you had it?" He asked without preamble. His voice deceptively calm.

"H-how did you know?" Remus asked startled.

"There's only one reason Black would be civil with me, and that's if you both read that blasted journal," Severus stated. Taking the offered plate from Molly. Thankful that she had not overloaded it as she did with everyone else's. Though it still seemed far too much food for Severus.

"Five weeks," Remus replied. "Sirius has known for two days less then that."

"This changes nothing," Severus stated bluntly.

"You're wrong Snape," Sirius said, "it changes everything."

"How do you figure?" Severus inquired genuinely interested.

"I might still enjoy getting a rise out of you, but I realized how wrong we were. I'm sorry Snape," Sirius said his voice strained like it hurt to say the words. Severus remained silent continuing on eating slowly. Deliberately. Like he had done so often at Hogwarts when he was a student. Sirius noticed that now. Wondering at it's cause. It was an unusual way to eat. Like he was deliberately trying to keep a stead pace. After a few moments without Severus breaking the silence even as other conversations had sprung up and the flow was normal and relaxed surprising Severus. Sirius hissed out, "well are you going to forgive me or not?"

"I forgave you a long time ago Black," Severus stated simply. "As you say it is fun to get a rise out of you."

"Are you telling me this whole time you've been acting?" Sirius asked aghast.

"Indeed," Severus responded with a sly grin.

"You bastard!" Sirius growled without any real ager in the sentiment. Severus leaned back in his seat, barely having finished half his food and gave Sirius a larger sly smile. Alastor burst into raucous laughter. Albus was smiling benignly. Minerva looked shocked. The teens were all still staring open mouthed at Severus as if seeing their potions professor without the pile of robes on wasn't a shock enough. Hearing this conversation was almost unsettling. Tonks was evidently uncertain what was going on because her hair kept changing from blue to purple to pink to orange and so on.

"Nymphadora if you would be so kind as to stop attempting to mimic a rainbow that would be most appreciated. As for the rest of you I would advice closing your mouths and unsticking your eyes. The world is not coming to an end," Severus stated bluntly. Evidently few got his humour. He grinned to himself.

"Don't call me that," Tonks groused out, but hair did stop on bubblegum pink and stayed that way. The rest of breakfast was quite subdued as everyone cast odd looks to the far too still Potion Master. Who simply sipped a very strong tea. As the meal ended and groups of conversing individuals began to filter out of the room Severus found himself alone with Poppy, Sirius and Remus. Sirius looked over at Remus rose and pulled Poppy rather reluctantly from the room closing the door behind them.

"Severus, can I call you Severus?" Remus asked.

"It is my name Lupin," Severus stated bluntly. Looking at the Werewolf.

"I wondered if I could talk to you about something," Remus went on looking rather nervous and uncertain.

"I do believe we are currently conversing Lupin, kindly get to the point?" Severus stated rather coldly.

"Severus I was wondering if you'd like to go out for a meal with me sometime?" Remus asked shyly. His voice barely above a whisper. His hands clasped nervously together. His head down, but his eyes looking up at Severus.

"Are you asking me out?" Severus asked in disbelief. Stunned.

"Yes," Remus barely managed to say.

"Do not take this wrong way Remus, but no I don't want to go out for a meal anywhere. I would however like to have a quiet dinner in my quarters next weekend with you," Severus stated. He saw the look pain and sadness flash across Remus's downcast face morph into one of shock then hope and then finally happiness as he looked up beaming at Severus. Severus for his part had gently rested his right hand over Remus's clapped hands. "I cannot promise that anything will come of it, but at the very least we might find mutual respect."

"If all that we can be is friends, Severus I would be honoured," Remus whispered tears shinning bright in his eyes.

"Do not cry. I am far too exhausted to deal with emotional Gryffindor after a near death experience," Severus stated bluntly. Though he did give Remus's hands a squeeze before rising. "I wonder if the Mutt will allow me to rest a few hours here before I return to Hogwarts."

"You are horrible. The both of you!" Remus barked out in laughter at hearing Severus called Sirius 'mutt'. Severus raised one eyebrow and left the kitchen and a very stunned Remus behind.