New chapter up finally...Lack of internet would factor for it's lateness...Sorry.
Thank you to all that reviewed, this one is for you all that did.
Disclaimer...I don't own harry potter or it's characters.
The next morning had the potion's master being harshly roused from his much-needed sleep as the shrill wailing of something had pierced his ears. Groaning his rolled over only to see the cot at the side of his bed and it came back to him.
He did it…He had stolen the child of the dark lord right from under her Aunt's nose. Granted it was more like kidnapping, but who bothered with details. He laid on his side his head buried in the pillow wishing he had more sleep. The dam elf came rather late and he had a full day of teaching….Stupid elf.
The sound of Hermione crying out again had him lifting his head as he saw her little feet and hands kick out and very reluctantly he shuffled to the end of the bed and pulled back his covers. He stood and peered over the bars and down at the little baby.
"What wrong with you?" He asked bluntly as she looked up at him they stared at each other for a moment before he realized that it was stupid of him to actually expect an answer as all he got in reply was another yell and a pouting face. Rolling his eyes, he reached down and hefted the baby out of her cot and held her to him.
"What do you want….Hmm" Hermione looked around his room as she was now at a better height to see before looking back at him her face scrunched slightly as more tears threatened to fall. He paled slightly not wanting anymore crying to happen but not actually knowing what to do. The sooner the headmaster was informed the better as he held the girl out in front of him and inspected her tiny body for signs of what was making her cry.
He couldn't see any injuries so was baffled about why she was crying when it hit him he sniffed the air and his already pale face got even whiter as it dawned on him just what the problem was. Giving her a look that said 'I hate you,' he very carefully carried her to his bed and placed her on the silken cover as he figured out what to do next. He glanced around for anything that might help him…God did he need help.
Why didn't he think of the little things? The biggest problem he had been just getting her out of there and now he was almost being gassed out of his own chamber. Running a hand through his hair he growled out in agitation before shuffling to his table where the discarded papers of the prophet lay as he picked them up, an idea hitting him as he glanced at the papers then at Hermione before nodding to himself.
A few minutes and one finally clean baby later, he had gotten her dressed in some transfigured clothes. He had to make sure they were the right way this time and not trying to stick her head in her sleeve arm. Before setting her down back in her crib and grimacing at the dirty nappy on his bed, on changing the paper to some nappies he had prepared himself for the task of changing her but dear Merlin he had never come across something that bad.
He blanched as the smell hit him fully and it took all he had not to throw up what non-existent contents his stomach held as he went about his task. His eyes watered as he moved the used nappy and placed the clean one under and with difficulty, stuck the sides down before sticking the new clothes over the fresh nappy and finished off getting her dressed. With a quick wave of his wand the dirty nappy vanished and he sighed in relief but looked down at hearing Hermione's giggles.
He sneered at her before stalking off to get ready for the day, stupid baby. Stupid stink….Now he was put off his breakfast.
After getting ready he made his way back into the main part of his chambers as Hermione sat watching him now this is where it got difficult. He sat down next to her and looked at her long and hard. How was he going to go to the hall when he had no one to take care of her whilst he was gone? He frowned at this new predicament. Silence reigned in the dungeon as he thought over the problem. Hermione had after having looked around, gotten bored and so pulled on the pillow she was next to and put the edge in her mouth gumming it.
In the end he decided that he had to simply just stay with her during breakfast and then find an elf to take care of her when he was in lesson. Calling for said house elf one appeared in front of him and bowed smiling before her attention turned to the baby and then back to the teacher who looked at her with an arched eyebrow as she smiled and nodded.
"Good morning, Mister Snape." He begrudgingly returned the gesture though his morning hadn't started as well as the elf spoke again.
"What can Patches get for Mister Snape this morning?" Before looking at the baby who was now tugging on his robes and drooling.
"And little miss"
"Some toast and tea would be nice." The elf nodded and waited for him to carry on.
"…And whatever it is babies eat" He added as she nodded and left with another smile. He turned to see what Hermione was doing and tugged his robe off her with a scowl. She looked up at him with wide eyes and for a moment he feared she would start crying again but sighed as she simply beamed and turned her attention somewhere else just as the elf came back with his things and some mashed baby food for Hermione.
"Could you…I don't know" And gestured to the small child as the elf waggled her ears and nodded frantically,
"Patches would be happy to feed little miss" She replied in her squeaky voice to which he simply nodded again and got too slowly eating his breakfast, the smell before had put him off but without his morning substance he just would cope with the kids. And got back to drinking his tea pointedly ignoring the coos and gleeful smiles the elf mad when she fed the small baby.
Once done he stood and fixed his robes before turning to look at the elf who had sat on the long, leather couch next to the happy baby as she looked at him.
"…I know it's not what you're used to, but I need to go to lessons and I have all day, and so….Since there is no one I can trust to look after her yet. Could you possibly"
He was cut off when the elf clapped her hands and waggled her ears excitedly once more and beamed up at him.
"Oh yes, patches would be honored to look after little miss here, no trouble for patches." He looked at her intently for a moment before nodding slowly and turned; he waved his wand over the fireplace and sealed the entrance shut. He didn't know what time Narcissa would wake but he wouldn't be here when she did and if she happened to stop by in her panic which he was sure she would do and see that Hermione was here, then all his planning would be up in flames.
"I shall be back at lunch time" He said strolling to the door, "Make sure she's safe at all times…And do not tell anyone that she is here." He warned looking back just before he left as the elf nodded again.
It was sometime during the five-minute break he had as students switched classes that the elf visited him in his class. He was sitting down rubbing his head and cursing all that gave him bad luck that three of his idiotic students decided to try to melt their friends clothes as the familiar cracking had him looking up to see the elf standing on his desk.
"…What in the…Why are you here!" He snarled making the elf retreat before she spoke up quietly.
"Mister Patches is sorry, but you had a letter arrive for you and it said urgent on the front and so little miss was sleeping and I thought you might need it seeing as its urgent and all." As she pulled the letter out of her pocket robe. He sighed knowing what it was by the elegant hand scripture of Narcissa.
Looks like she found out and took the letter thanking her before she nodded and vanished. He didn't have long and so quickly undid the seal before unfolding it out and reading the words on the paper.
She nodded to himself as he read the panic that she wrote. How someone had taken her niece and that she would need his help in finding her and that once he had time come back to the manor as quick as he could. Putting the parchment in his pocket he closed his eyes and wondered how he was going to get out of this one before the sounds of feet barging into his room had him opening his eyes just in time to see his third year Hufflepuff's crash through the door.
He yelled at them as they came to a standstill and got up from his seat glaring and threatening them with detention as they moved much slower and took their seats.
After three more hours of lessons he made his way back to his chambers foregoing the hall once more and moved through the portrait as he looked around to find the main part empty. He moved to his rooms and on entering the other room found the elf sitting on his bed looking down in the cot as it came to him that Hermione must have been sleeping.
"Little miss dozed off about ten minutes ago and so I waited until you came back." She squeaked looking at him as he came closer he glanced at the sleeping child and nodded, before deciding that he would go and make his story to Narcissa as he glanced down at the elf again.
"Would you mind looking after her for just a little longer? I have to leave now and rather in a hurry and so." He watched as she smiled and nodded before turning her gaze back to the baby.
"I's don't mind, I like looking after little miss" She replied as he nodded and moved out of the room. He had no time to change as he opened his fire and with the familiar route. Traveled to Malfoy manor. He stepped out and once more found himself in an empty room as he walked to the large doors and out of the main lounge. He carried on walking and looking for the blonde until the appearance of an elf had him stopping.
"It was a different elf this time as he looked at the human man with wide, sad eyes that was all teary.
"Mistress in little misses room." Was all he said before he vanished with a sob and Snape turned to the stairs feeling more guilt with every step he took. This would be an extremely awkward meeting and one he didn't fancy undertaking but he must if it was to keep up appearances and divert any suspicion. He reached the room where Hermione was in and heard the muffled but unmistakable sounds of crying coming from inside.
His stomach dropped once more at the fear of seeing one of the very few he considered close to him upset. And he very much wanted to just turn around and floo back to the school but he couldn't, this he had to do. And so taking a deep breath he knocked on the door.
A shuffling sound could be heard before the door opened and Narcissa appeared on the other side. He was shocked at the way she was. The often reserved and ice-cold witch was a mess. Her eyes were puffy and red, like she had cried all morning, her hair was pulled back into a messy bun which was only half paid attention to and as soon as she saw the potion master standing in front of her she broke down again.
"Oh Severus" She cried clinging on to what looked like a blanket. The man in question swallowed the uncomfortable lump in his very dry throat at the result of his actions and moved into the room.
"I got you're note Narcissa what is it? Is it Hermione?" He asked looking at her; the name seemed to bring out more sorrow as she burst out into tears again and hugged the comforter to her chest as she nodded.
"She's…..She's"
"She's what?"
"Gone" She sobbed out looking up at him and saw his eyes widen. He spun around and moved to the cot which he knew was empty and faked shock standing and staring at the Hermione - less cot before slowly looking back around.
"….What happened?" He asked quietly as she shook her head still in despair, she took a few steps closer and stood next to him.
"I….I don't know. She was here last night when I put her to bed and then this morning…."She trailed off as more tears slipped from her eyes. he glanced at her and he felt for her…..He really did feel terrible for putting her through this and so did something that normally would never happen and often put him out of his comfort zone. But special circumstances an all.
He very slowly placed his arm around her shoulder and pulled her in for a one side hug as she looked at him a little in shock. She knew he very rarely interacted with others and even less gave them any sort of contact. She smiled gratefully as she had none the past few days and so leaned in and braced the comfort.
"Come on, staying in here will do you no good." He muttered as he turned them around and made for the door, "We will get you some tea and try to work out what happened here." She nodded silently not trusting her to speak lest she break down again and he shut the door behind them as they walked to the lounge room.
They sat in silence for a while as Snape got one of the elves to get her Mistress a strong cup of tea as she bowed and left with the blonde staring at the hard, wooden flooring in a daze. The elf came back seconds later and tried to give her the cup but pulled back when he didn't take it Snape took the cup instead and thanked the small creature who bowed once more before leaving them alone as he looked at the unresponsive witch in front of him.
"Here" He held out the hot drink as she barely glanced at him he sighed. If he knew just how badly this was going to affect her than he would never have gone ahead with his plan…No that would have still happened, though he didn't doubt that the youngest Black sister would have loved the little girl, she was, for all intent's now….Their quasi leader, Bella would have wanted Lucius or someone equally fanatical to teach her all the wrong in life and grow up to terrorize.
She eventually took the cup from him and sipped a bit of the hot tea not bothering about the scalding and placed it on her lap. She still didn't talk as they sat there in silence which was perfect as he still had to come up with a scapegoat he could shift the blame on to, it was sometime later that she finally spoke.
"What I'm I going to do?" She spoke softly, so in fact that he almost didn't hear it.
"She was the last I had of Bella." She looked up at his passive face and gave a little elegant snort. "The only family I had left is now in that god forsaken prison with no chance of getting out and the only piece of her I had, the one thing she trusted me with. Is now gone….And I didn't even know it." Her voice wavered as she placed her hand over her mouth to stifle the sobs. Snape lent over and patted her on the shoulder in a sign of comfort again as he watched her.
He didn't say anything as the inner battle of his current feelings was tearing at him this woman right in front of him was the only other woman that he had ever felt a sliver of affection for. It wasn't love like it had been for Lily, no, that had come and gone for him but the blonde was the closest thing he had to a friend and there lay his struggle.
He could see just how much Hermione meant to her, and like she had just said. She was the only reminder she had of Bella, something to cling on to and by losing that it made her feel terrible and though she didn't say it betrayal. By losing her only daughter, Narcissa felt that she had let down her older sister; she wasn't so bothered that she was also one half dark lord as he had gone. But Bella was the only one she had. They had stuck together for years.
He hated seeing her like this, and knowing that he was the cause of her misery was hitting him hard. She was heartbroken. But he had to do it; the risk far outweighed the love the little girl might have gotten from her Aunt. If things had gone differently and Bella hadn't of gone to torture the Longbottom's that night…Then for all he knew she might have taken Hermione and fled to parts unknown. Ensuring that the girl would grow to be just as bloodthirsty and tyrannical as her parents whilst waiting for Voldmort to return.
He didn't know whether or not the dark lord was indeed dead, and he didn't all care to find out but something told him that it was the former. He didn't know why, but there was just thing vibe he had when around him and it wasn't just the sheer magic or darkness, it was something else. He hadn't said anything to anyone as mostly he didn't care to talk. But, he had his theory that though the lord hadn't yet found a way to total immortality, he had found a near enough substitute for the long wait until he did.
Which was why he was in two halves about actually thinking he was truly gone and so was the reason he didn't celebrate. That and the fact the love of his life was killed because of him….Maybe he should have rejoiced his fall but he just couldn't, plus parties and socializing that never really been him.
He had lied many time's during the other man's gathering. He was adept to it and so was prepared to now. And it wasn't like she could break his shields to find out anyway as he sat back in his chair.
He was just about to speak when Narcissa beat him to it she looked up a little with wide eyes as a thought hit her and she spoke.
"You don't think…..Someone took her do you?" She asked terror in her voice as he tilted his head slightly, he was just going to make something up, but he could run with this, if he played it carefully he might even get his own back on Peter, who had, before the lord's fall. Made him doubt his loyalties to him by muttering in his ear. If he didn't need him for information then he would have done away with him straight away.
He nodded slowly "It's a possibility" He said as she gasped, she looked down at her lap for a moment as he gazed at her before seeing the little glance up in his direction and he had to internally smirk.
"….You surely don't think would do something like this? Do you?" She lifted her head up and looked at his knowing expression as she struggled for her words.
"…No, it's just….Well you were here last night and—"
"May I remind you that I neither like nor have the experience and patience of looking after children" He cut in startling her, she gazed at him before he carried on.
"Either way….I thought you had a higher opinion of me than that." He said making her glance back down. It wasn't nor had been. A very long time since she felt chastised, but now she felt guilty for even thinking if might have been him he was her friend.
"Your right. I'm sorry, it's just….I really don't know what I can do….You know as well as I that I can't ask anyone to help look for her, as far as I know everyone had either been arrested or has left the country. Apart from you and Lucius, who will be home whenever, and I have no one else to ask." She finished as her voice has started to waver again and she blinked furiously to get rid of the tears residing there. He nodded knowing that was true, the rest of his followers had vanished as soon as they got wind of his defeat.
The ones unlucky like Lucius had been taken in by the Ministry and questioned. He didn't know what Malfoy would say to get out of this but knowing him an official would be pardoning him with one or two pockets considerably heavier, he sighed. If it wasn't for Dumbledore then he would have been one of those carted off. He owed a lot to the older man and would do everything he had in his power to repay that.
But here right now he had to play his part. And if it got him in good with the blonde whilst at the same time getting revenge on a much hated vermin then his day just might get better.
"I'll help"
She didn't register him talking for a moment but looked up at him.
"What?"
"I said that I would help, search for her I mean." He replied a little stiffly not liking saying things twice as she smiled widely at him.
"Would you really? I know that you have to keep low and looking for….His child, is not something that would consider keeping away from that."
Yes he had thought of that but he had already said it and so was too late now, and it wasn't like he all that far to look either as he nodded once more.
"I will take care of that; just make sure that you also keep low. I know the Ministry are looking at this place to so anything you might try and do now will only bring more suspicion down on you." He added as she nodded seriously. They sat finishing their tea in silence before they knew it the hour was up and he had to leave to get back to his next class. They stood and she thanked him once more for helping her when no one else would.
He smiled and patted her on the arm before striding to the fire-place and with one more parting nod he threw in some powder and went back to the school a new plan taking shape in his head. And one that would, by this time tomorrow. Make Narcissa forget all about the little child that was meant to be in her care.
He stepped into his room and immediately went to his room where the elf was still perched on the edge of his bed in the same place last time he saw her before stepping closer
"How is she?" The small creature looked up smiling,
"She is being very good sir, little miss woke before and I tried offering her some food. But she looked and it and rolled back over." He smirked before nodding and moved away.
"Well I have to attend last day lessons so I shouldn't be gone for more than two hours at the most now" The elf nodded and went back to keeping watch over the slumbering baby as the potion's master left the room. Sweeping down the long corridors snarling at the straggling students who got in his way before reaching his rooms. He took a deep breath before entering, only two more hours to go then he would have to find a way to tell the headmaster before making a serum that would make Narcissa forget the baby.
The last student of the day was sent fleeing his room after he all but yelled at them to leave and sat back in his chair in peace. He closed his eyes and sighed, it really had been long day. And even longer still when he had a head full of thoughts and things to do. Running a hand over his face he didn't hear the door opening before someone was standing just on the other side of his desk.
"Hmm-mm" He grit his teeth. If this was a student forgetting something, Merlin help them…He opened his eyes only to sit up straight in his seat as the tall form of Albus Dumbledore stood smiling at him.
"Dumbledore" He greeted the other man as he smiled cheerfully back at him.
"Severus." None spoke for a moment which was only serving to make the potion master slightly nervous it wasn't every day the headmaster ventured into the gloominess that was his dungeons and so didn't know what it was he wanted.
"Forgive me sir, but is there anything you wanted?" The older man still smiled cheerfully as he bobbed on the ball of his heels
"Can't a headmaster come down and see about the welfare of one of his teachers" The dark-haired man cocked his head slightly, "My welfare?"
Albus nodded, "Yes, we noticed that your weren't at breakfast this morning. Nor dinner tonight." The younger man nodded slowly.
"Others?" Albus chuckled, "Ah yes….Myself and the other professors" At this Snape gave him a slight sneer.
"As touching as your concern is. I'm perfectly fine." The older man nodded his agreement. "That you are."
They stood in silence for another few minutes before Albus looked at him again and called out.
"Severus." The other man looked up and this time was a little surprised at the now serious look he bore.
"Yes" The older man didn't say anything for a moment as he looked at him but did after giving him a once over,
"You can tell me if anything is wrong, you know that don't you?" The potions master didn't reply only gazed at him before swallowing the little lump that had formed in his throat. Did he know? Was that the reason he was here? Looking at the older man intently he couldn't tell from the look on his face as rarely did Albus give way his feelings from his expressions and as he couldn't look at his thoughts being only one of two whose mind he couldn't. It made it hard for him to decipher.
Not trusting himself to speak and give away his secret. He merely nodded.
"Yes I know….Thank you." Albus gave him one more serious look before returning to his cheerful state he came in with
"Well now that's all settled, I must take my leave have a nice night, Severus." The other man nodded once more and watched as Dumbledore turned on his heel and left the room leaving Snape feeling rather constricted.
Soon after he let his room and swept down the corridor, his robes trailing behind him as he weaved through the halls until coming to a stop outside the large snake picture before giving the password and stepping into his rooms. Assuming that Hermione was still in his rooms he stopped and was surprised again to see her in the large room on the long sofa, settled next to her, the elf as the small creature fed the little baby with a big smile on her face.
The elf looked up and to the door to see the teacher and beamed more widely as he made his way over to the pair as Hermione let out a small giggle and looked at him before turning back to her new friend who had her food and reached out to try to grab the bottle.
"Patches was watching little one as she woke and knew she was hungry." Snape gave the creature his attention as she spoke to him. "Patches bring missy in here because it was warmer, Patches hopes sir doesn't mind." Snape gazed at her before shaking his head. He was glad that she was being fed as he really didn't know what babies ate nor did he feel like hunting the school for any who did. Or have the pleasure of feeding her as he looked down to see Hermione try to pull on the skinny wrist of the elf in the effort of getting the bottle just out of her reach.
He moved off into his room letting the elf carry on feeding her as he changed from his teaching robes to his outer wear and walked back into his large common area before taking a seat across from them.
"Has she been any trouble?" He asked as the elf stopped once more this time earning a small cry from the tiny baby who was happy that she was still being fed only to have it stop once again.
"No trouble sir, little miss has been a very good baby." She smiled at him as he nodded; looking around his room he was just about to get himself a drink when the elf spoke up again.
"Sir is very lucky to have a baby as nice as little miss here" She said. That had him snapping his head around to face her as she lifted the spoon to Hermione's mouth again only to drop it slightly as she caught his look.
"Did….Patches say something wrong sir? Has patches been bad." He watched as the elf welled up, her large ears drooped and she took the baby bottle and proceeded to beat herself over the head with it he sighed as he watched the diminutive elf try to hurt itself before reaching and yanking the bottle from its grip. The elf now bottle free looked at the teacher who had taken away its tool of punishment before he spoke.
"You didn't do anything bad, you just…Oh Merlin why I'm I even saying this" He muttered dropping his head slightly before looking back to the wide eyed elf.
"You just caught me off guard that's all." He gestured to the baby who had now turned to look his way and was eyeing the bottle being held in his grip,
"She's not my baby" Patches looked at him in silence before down at the little girl and then back to him.
"Well if little miss isn't yours, whose is little misses' parents?" At that he looked uncomfortable and fidgeted in his seat as he was being watched carefully by the house elf.
"She….has no parent's" He finally said turning to face him as now Patches looked sad and lowered his head to stare at the baby in his grip,
"Little miss is….An orphan?" She spoke voice trembling slightly as she thought about how this adorable little girl would grow up without any knowledge of her mummy of daddy. Snape nodded as he lent across and gave the bottle back to Hermione who was grasping at the air with her hand.
"Poor little miss" Severus nodded as the elf looked up.
"Then why do you have her?"
"Because. I'm looking after her until I can tell the headmaster, then he can see about finding her a good home." At that Patches brightened, his ear waggled happily as he smiled widely
"Good, little miss will have the bestest home" He spoke happily getting back to feeding Hermione who was content to lay in the elf's arms as Snape nodded.
"Hmm" He glanced over at the child and could only hope that came true as he got up and went about his normal chores after lessons before calling for another elf who appeared and on seeing his fellow kitchen worker sitting on the couch holding a bottle and a baby his first reaction was confusion followed by happiness as he waved.
"What can Boot's do to help sir" The other elf said looking up. Snape told him what he wanted and the little creature nodded before disappearing off back to the kitchen. He always had a late snack before doing his other duties and then to bed. But not tonight, tonight he had an appointment with the head.
The other elf returned moments later with his snack as he nodded at him before the elf turned and with a wave to his friend. Returned to the kitchens the potion master moved back to his seat as Hermione had finished her bottle and was now taking to staring around the room.
"Does mister want Patches to change little miss" He looked up from his sandwich to see the elf staring at him
"Hmm"
"Little miss needs a change, and sir is eating. So does sir want Patches to change little miss." He glanced down food still in hand, to see Hermione smiling at him he narrowed his eye at her seemingly innocent smile. It was like she was mocking him for that morning, he shuddered remembering his senses being brutally abused and nodded his head quickly.
"Yes. Please…." Was his very immediate response as the elf nodded before disappearing with Hermione. A happy laugh from his room on the other side told him that they had gone into the next room and so wasn't worried about them going far. He was just thankful that Patches had considered his snack.
They came back a few minutes later before taking their place on the seat again.
"Little miss all clean now" Hermione smiled her agreement as Snape merely nodded before finishing the last of his snack and standing up, looking at his clock. He decided that it was now or never and so with a wave of his wand the blanket that Hermione had been wrapped up in flew into his hand as he turned to the little elf.
"Wrap her up in this." The small creature looked at the man and at the wrap in his hand and knew that he was taking her to the headmaster now, her eyes dropped as did her ears and she nodded taking the blanket and looking at the little baby in her hands as Snape went off to find his outdoor robe. He came back to find Hermione securely tucked up in her snuggy wrap with Patches, who now looked miserable as she said goodbye to her little friend for the day.
"Goodbye little miss. Patches will miss you, yes she will. But you're going to find a nice home so Patches won't be sad for that." She gave the little girl a sad smile as Hermione reached out and patted her head giggling. Snape looked on at them and felt a little bad for taking away what clearly had been the best part of the little elves day before shaking his head slightly.
Dear Merlin he was going soft.
Bending down he took the baby from the elf who gave them another sad smile as Snape looked at her,
"I want to thank you for your help today. I know that it's not part of your service to and so I'm grateful." The elf gave him a teary smile and bowed her head a little.
"Patches is glad to be of help, and Patches is glad to have made a new friend today." With one more glance at the little baby the elf disappeared from the room leaving them alone Severus looked at Hermione who seemed more awake. As if knowing that something was happening as was looking all around with wide eyes.
"Come on then" He muttered as they made their way out of the chamber and into the hall. He pulled the shawl closer to her so she didn't get cold as he started making his way up the corridors, twisting and turning, until he stopped by the entrance hall. He looked around for any late night stragglers or students who were out past curfew before walking across the large hall. Hermione had been taking in all that they passed with observant eyes as she was carried up higher on to new levels until at last they came to a stop.
"Well this is it" He told himself as he looked up at the stone gargoyle looming down over him as it gazed at him with harsh eyes before speaking.
"Password?"
"Chocolate Beans" The gargoyle nodded before moving out of the way to show a large twisting staircase. Feeling more nervous with every second he moved forwards keeping a tight hold of the little girl who, fascinated at the stone creature, tried to touch it as they moved up the steps until they came to a stop outside the large door leading to the head office.
Taking another deep breath he waited for a moment before knocking on the door. He waited for a moment until the clear voice shouted out telling him to come in.
He pushed on the door still keeping Hermione secure and entered the room. He made his way over to the top and was not surprised to see Minerva there but not really wanting her to be. He wanted the headmaster on his own as they looked up and smiled before catching the little bundle in his arms.
There was silence in the room with only Fawkes trilling as they took in the scene before him after a few minutes Albus cleared his throat and spoke.
"Good evening Severus" The other man nodded at him as Minerva sat in shock at the baby in his arms. One who had turned around on hearing others and was now looking at the brightly colored bird with avid fascination who was staring back at her.
"What can I do for you this evening." He had to hand it to the older man. Though the topic of everyone's main question was sitting in his arms. He didn't pry straight away, as he nodded.
"Yes…Actually a rather serious and very delicate situation had risen and I'm in need of your help. Albus nodded and motioned for him to take the seat next to his deputy as he did for the first time in his teaching career. But only because Hermione was now trying to reach for the bird. Minerva followed his movements as she continued to stare at the little girl. She didn't know why but something just welled up inside her when she saw her face.
Hermione now had turned after losing sight of the bird and was now focused on the other woman as she looked into her green eyes deeply. As if in a trance Minerva couldn't pull herself away, she stared at the pale skinned little girl just as intensely. The feeling rising with every second they made eyes contact.
"Well whatever I can do to help. I'll gladly try my best" He replied kindly as Snape nodded. He shifted so he could get a better hold of Hermione and without thought or any reason about why she would. Minerva held her hands out.
Both men stared at the Transfiguration teacher one with thinly hidden surprise and the other questioning. Both knew that the Scottish woman was a formidable force to be reckoned with. And by that many had assumed that just because she taught kids, didn't mean to say she liked them or even wanted any. Even gaining a few names for it none of them nice which made him sad for his closest friend but she didn't pay it any attention just took it in stride and got back to her no-nonsense approach to things.
But he knew deep down she did long for a family, someone to call her own….All of hers had died during the first war with Grindelwald, which basically left her an orphan. Her brother's had to gone. One of them killed along with their parent's and the other, so sick of the fighting and disillusioned with the way of their life. Had fled. To where no one knew. To this day she didn't know if he was still alive or not.
He also knew her biggest secret. One that she had only ever told him and made him swear almost a vow. Not to tell another person. She had come to him not long after the war one which she helped with immensely. She had no one else and needed a friend and he was content to be just that, they sat down and there with a lot of courage and eventually tears. She told him that she couldn't ever have children.
One of Gellert's men had hit her with a curse and because of its unknown origin's they couldn't treat it. It wasn't hurting her physically, she felt fine energy wise they had made sure her life wasn't in danger. Overall the curse hadn't seemed to have affected her.
That was until she woke up in agony and an emergency trip to the hospital had her being told that the curse had all but killed her womb. It had infected it from the inside and because of that she could never have any children naturally.
Which was why after that emotional evening those many years ago, she pushed it aside and got on with her new life of teaching and how she became known as one of the fiercest witches around, he had heard what kids over the years had called her behind her back and as much as he knew that she brushed it off. It did hurt her, and it saddened him to see her so alone in life.
This was why he was only a bit surprised at her wanting to hold this little baby. She waited patiently and silently as Snape looked at her but then very slowly handed the girl off to her as she smiled and took her from him, they watched as she cradled the child to her body and cooed when the baby looked up at her with her big, expressive eyes she had noticed that the child's eye colour was a little unusual, pretty much dark Black. Very uncommon but that didn't put her off. The shape of her face and the way she looked around had something inside melting that she didn't think existed anymore.
Albus could tell that she was already smitten with the baby and was happy to see her like that but first thing was first. He needed to actually know about her and so turned to Snape who was watching and inwardly chuckled at the almost disturbed look he had on his face and coughed to get his attention.
"The child." He asked when the younger man finally turned to face him and nodded. "Yes of course" And got round to finally telling him and ignoring the sounds coming from the stern deputy head besides him.
"Is she yours?" Albus asked as the other man looked at him before shaking his head. "No, she is not mine" The other man nodded and looked at his friend who had now taken a hold of one of the little hands and was bringing it to her mouth making the tiny girl giggle.
"So if she's not yours are you looking after her for a friend?" He waited and was surprised to hear him chuckle dryly and shake his head again.
"I don't think I could count these people as friends…..Not in the slightest." That had him a little more confused and somewhat more concerned. He once again looked at the baby who was being held securely in Minerva's arms and narrowed his eyes before turning them back to Severus.
"Well then if she's not a person you would consider a friend's child….Or acquaintance." Again he shook his head, but added. "Well they were. But wasn't very close."
Now more confused which was never something he liked. Albus just decided to get to the point. He looked at the other man and very clearly, spoke.
"…..So who does this child belong to, Severus?" Snape looked up and saw the sharp blue gaze staring into him and took in a deep breath.
"…..She's the daughter of Bellatrix Lestrange"
More silence echoed around the room as Minerva whipped her head around and gaped at the former Death Eater,
"But that can't be true." She looked back down to the little girl. "Surely it can't" He grimaced but nodded.
"I'm afraid it's true" Minerva looked at him before focusing her attention back on the child in her arms. Her heart broke for this little girl. This beautiful child, who had the utter misfortune to have a Mother as vile as her,
"What's her name" She heard Albus ask as Snape looked at him.
"Hermione" Minerva couldn't help but smile at that.
"Hermione…..Such a beautiful name." Both men looked at her again as she gazed at the little girl who was focued now on the woman holding her
"Her full name is Hermione Bellatrix Black." He carried on as the older man took his eyes of the woman and child to turn to him.
"Black?" Snape nodded. "I think she knew that the name would be more well-known throughout our community. Strike more fear into the hearts of the people." The head nodded as he mulled on all before him as a new question came to mind.
"So her husband was ok with that?" The other man looked at him as he frowned slightly. "What do you mean?"
"Well surely with it being his child. He would have wanted the girl to take his name" He spoke. Snape was quiet for a while as Albus noticed this, he also saw his demeanour change slightly and his face take a darker look. Something about this sudden turn told him that this was not the case.
"Severus"
"Yes" He glanced at the older man as he now saw the look in his eyes, both knew this conversation was about to take a sharper turn and he braced himself. This was what he had come here for tonight after all and stared him dead on in the eyes.
"….This is not Rodolphus's child is it?" Snape shook his head.
Minerva had heard the tone of his voice and how the tension in the room had suddenly risen and looked up, on seeing the look her friend wore worried her slightly, she had only seen that when the dark lord fell and learning both Lily and James Potter had been murdered. She had been there for when little Harry was taken to his Aunt and uncles house and something in the back of her mind told her that whatever Snape told them next was going to be another one of those moments.
Albus waited patiently for Severus to continue and saw the struggle the younger man had. Something was troubling him which was what was stopping him from saying anything more. He waited silently for the younger man to get his bearings before speaking again. Minerva was paying no one any thought as her eyes went back to the girl in her arms. Hermione as she now knew had stared at her and she smiled which led the tiny baby to copy her, the older teacher chuckled before unconsciously hugging her tighter to her body.
"There was a plan. One which was to make sure the survival of the campaign. To keep the fight going, and carry on the traditions." Albus nodded and waited for him to continue.
"Bellatrix. Of course. Being one of the if not, strongest of all the women followers had been picked…Not that she objected. She went along willingly. He wanted someone of power, status that would be upheld within our world. And of course beautiful features to add to the child's DNA"
Once more Albus nodded. He knew that the Blacks did have a lot of pull through the wizard world and no shortage of power, with all the Black children being powerful in their own right. If this were indeed part of some plan that did include the child in Minerva's arms. Then Bellatrix was the obvious choice given her widely known strength in all known subjects.
"And the father?"
"Someone who could pass on the ancient birth right of Hogwarts" Albus narrowed his gaze at the other man unsure of where he was going with the conversation Snape could see his slight confusion and sighed.
"….By being the only second heir of Slytherin we know." He said finally as it dawned on the headmaster what his words meant.
The silence around the room was deafening. As the full force of just what was in front of him took him by complete surprise and shock. Not even Fawkes was making noise as Dumbledore looked shaken and pale. He looked at Snape with wide eyes, trying to see if he was lying. But he didn't need to look into his mind to see he was telling the truth.
Finally after a tense few minutes Albus finally spoke.
"….That's not possible" He whispered, his voice grave. Snape didn't reply only stared at him directly.
"It's true….Headmaster. Hermione is Voldemort's daughter." The only one who flinched at his name was Minerva who was just as shocked as Albus. When she had heard what the Potion master had revealed her heart stopped. A little tug on her collar had her looking back down to see Hermione smiling at her.
She let her eyes roam the face of the little girl. This little girl who had parents of pure evil. Such darkness that surely anything coming from would be poisonous to touch. But if that was the case then why, when she looked down at this little child. All she felt was warmth and an urge to keep her safe?
"We would have known. The order, if this was true why didn't we now about it? Surely all these months a whisper or something?" Dumbledore said to him Severus nodded. That was indeed a tricky feat to keep, such crucial information surely someone was bound to slip. If the dark lord hadn't of been smart enough to cover that.
"He made us all swear. That what was taking place we wouldn't reveal to anyone. Not under torture should any get caught by the order, nor under threat of death. His heir was worth more than our lives. And knew that if the order got wind of a child then they would do all they could to take it away."
Albus nodded. Of course, the situation was dire and something as big as this would have been handled with urgency had they known. But it seemed that Tom had been one step ahead.
"I take it he used the unbreakable vow on all?" He asked as Snape nodded.
"Clever move of him" He sighed and lent back in his seat. He rubbed his hand over his face just when they thought they had finally gotten rid of him once and for all. Well he would have to be naïve to think that completely. No he knew he was still out there. Devastatingly weak but not gone, he would gain his strength eventually. When he didn't know but for now he was content. The people needed to have something to be joyous about and he wasn't going to ruin it.
He just had to handle this issue as quickly as possible.
"So what do we do" Snape said as he looked at him the older man was silent in his thoughts for a while as he deliberated on what to do before deciding. Sitting up, he looked at the two sitting across from him as he spoke.
"We hide her"
The others were silent as he suggested it and as none had spoken he took that as their consent to carry on.
"We put her someplace that no one would think to look."
"You mean by no one. You mean…" He nodded,
"Anyone who knew of her, that means basically one half of the wizard world who were his followers."
"But half of them have been put in Azkaban" This time Minerva spoke up as she looked at her friend. He turned to her and tilted his head in acknowledgement.
"So they have. But there are still some that have fled. They still know of her existence and I fear just like her mother and the Lestrange brothers. Some will try to take her as a placement for their fallen leader." She took in his words and knew they made sense but as she looked back down at Hermione. She couldn't help but feel. It was strange as it had been a long, long time since she had actually felt what was residing in her chest.
They made eye contact again and as she was privileged to be graced with another gummy smile her heart melted even more, this little girl had brought back something that she never thought to be felt again…..Love.
She had only known this little baby for less than half an hour and already she was filled with love for her, it was a terrifying notion but also one that she enjoyed,
"I have already devised a plan to keep the others who know about her from remembering." Snape told them Albus turned back to him with a questioning look.
"Who else should know of her?" Severus looked at him like he was crazy before replying.
"Her Aunt" At that Dumbledore internally hit himself, of course Narcissa. She was bound to have been the first to know about her Bellatrix would have wanted her around.
"Right…Yes Narcissa. How have you managed to take care of that, surely she would know she's gone. Assuming that she was the one Hermione went to?" He asked and got a nod in confirmation.
"Indeed in fact. That was where I was this dinner. I had the baby brought to me early in the morning hours by means of the house elf." At the look he got he shook his head.
"I'll explain that later, and knew that it would be only a matter of time before she found her gone and so I has to act my part until I could come up with a way to…Ensure that she doesn't even remember Bellatrix ever being pregnant." He finished talking as the other two mulled on what he said.
"That would be for the best."
"So what about the baby….I don't think we can get the Ministry involved with this, they would make a big deal out of it." Snape carried on as Albus nodded. That was the last thing they would need if they were to keep it quiet and so ruled that thought out.
"What about we take her to the Muggle world." Snape suggested as Albus once more turned to him. Minerva did as well as she heard the words, they felt like knives piercing her body. Take her to the Muggle world? And put her where? With some people who will have no idea what she was? Eventually they would when her letter would come. Given who her parents where it was inevitable.
But it wasn't just that, she couldn't let them take her away, by doing that than that would mean she would have to give her up, she gripped the blanket a little more tightly to her just as she felt a tiny hand reach out and touch the uncovered skin at her neck. She lowered her head and looked back into the black orbs of the little baby that was now cuddling up to her, she let out a content gurgle and pressed into her body.
She couldn't do it she couldn't let them take her off somewhere never to be seen again…Not for eleven years anyway by that time Hermione would have forgotten her and would only view her as a teacher. That hurt more than Snape's words did. And she couldn't allow that. Hermione needed her.
This little baby was trusting her the way she snuggled up, meant that she needed her comfort. Her warmth and Minerva wanted to give her that and more. It was just as well that the tiny child needed her as it looked like she needed Hermione just as much these new found feelings were foreign. But not unwelcome and she liked them it made her remember happy memories.
"So it's settled then" She looked up as she heard the words breaking her from her thoughts as they nodded and panic filled her, she wasn't going to let them take her, they both needed each other and so without hesitation objected.
"No"
More silence filled the room as both men slowly turned to look at their third accomplice who was still holding Hermione tight to her, Albus looked at her carefully over his glasses and saw her posture. It was tense and filled with defence and sighed,
"Minerva….My dear" She turned to him and glared shaking her head.
"No" Snape eyed his two colleagues with confusion. "Is there something I should know about?" He asked quizzically as Albus turned to him and shook his head just as Minerva vocally spoke her disagreement.
"You can't take her" Severus blinked a few times looking at her," I'm confused."
"There is no confusion, Severus" Dumbledore cut in looking at him before turning and shooting a warning glare to his oldest friend. She glared right back at him, she refused to be talked out of this, this was something that she needed to do. And so just as Snape was about stand. She spoke up once again.
"Let me take her"
Dumbledore rubbed his temples. His eyes closed. As Snape stared wide eyed at the Transfiguration professor.
"…..I'm sorry, what?" She sent him a scathing look before hoisting Hermione a little higher and repeated her words.
"I said, let me take Hermione…Let me raise her as my own."
It was silent for only a few minutes before Severus reacted, he switched his looks from the head back to Minerva and gave a mock laugh.
"Are you serious?" When she didn't respond he knew she was telling the truth and laughed out for real.
"You are….Merlin….Are you absolutely mad? Didn't we just discuss whose child this is?" He raged as she looked at him calmly before nodding.
"And didn't we just say it would be best if we placed her somewhere no one knows who she is?" She chose not to respond to that as Albus merely watched on as his two professors faced off against each other. He watched how she interacted with the baby and knew that she was already in deep with the child. And despite his own feelings and aversions to the many reasons why she thought keeping the girl would be a good idea. He also knew that she would be well looked after.
"Keeping her in the wizard world would be like putting a target on her back, what if someone sees her?" He argued as Albus looked at him. Minerva breathed in deeply before replying.
"You have stated it yourself Severus. The only ones that knew her have all fled. They will be too busy caring for their own skins then come looking for her"
"What about Narcissa…Don't you think she won't notice that you happen to have her sister's child?" She narrowed her eyes in questioning at the potions master before speaking. "Didn't you say that you already had a solution to that particular problem? That by the time the night is done. She won't even remember the pregnancy?" She looked at him pointedly as he scowled. He forgot about that but it still didn't make it alright. Didn't she see that this was a huge risk.
"Albus tell her that she is a fool for thinking this way" He snapped turning to the headmaster who had sat back in his chair. He had watched the verbal sparring between them he already knew of the dangers this posed. But he also knew that his friend was the most stubborn woman he had ever met. And that if he tried to convince her otherwise it was very rare that he got a response…Or even a win. Contrary to what most people believed and so shrugged his shoulders.
"…You're not serious are you? Are you saying you actually agree to this?" He said in total disbelief as the head sighed. This was giving him a headache but if he didn't solve it soon then who knew how long it would go on for and so decided to mediate.
"…How about a compromise" He said cutting in and making both look at him he saw them eyeing him and held up his hands before carrying on.
"….We keep the child in our world" He was cut off by the aggravated sigh of Snape as he glared at him for interrupting, the dark-haired man held out his hand for him to carry on but was still scowling.
"Minerva here….Actually what is it that you want my dear?" He asked in slight confusion. He knew that she was very much attached to the child. But he didn't know how far that went. She gazed down at the little girl in her arms and smiled before bringing her up and nuzzling her head a little.
"….I don't think I could walk away from this little one" She muttered softly and kissed her on her head. Albus smiled at her as she looked up at him.
"Minerva takes Hermione and for a trial run we— " He stopped when he saw her shake her head out of the corner of his eye. Both men turned to her as she spoke up. "Not a trail run…No waiting and seeing. It feels strange but it feels like as if she were my own….And that's what I want." She said facing them none said anything as they worked out her words and what she was trying to tell them as Snape cut the silence.
"…Like as in adoption?" It took her a few minutes but she very slowly nodded her head. "Yes, like adoption." Snape was about to blow up again but was stopped by Dumbledore's hand coming up, he turned to look at him as a calculating look had now adorned the headmasters face. It was his thinking face and now Snape was concerned.
"What" He didn't say anything merely observed the two interacting at the side of him before he licked his lips and spoke up.
"….That might not be a bad idea." Severus was staring at him like he had gone mad. Was he the only one sane in the room? Did they not see that by keeping her here the danger they brought. But on looking at them and how one was completely taken in by the little girl and the other was obviously thinking about his friends lack of family and by granting her this, he was blindsiding the reality of the situation.
"A simple change of name as I'm sure that she will take if you are serious." He added to which she nodded once more. She had never been more serious about anything and once more it scared her as she was never one for making split decisions right there. But she had also never fallen so completely in love with another human being before. In a non-platonic kind of way. She had given up on love the day her husband died and so would make do with a little companion instead.
"And as Severus is taking steps to ensure that Mrs Malfoy doesn't remember her niece nor would try to make a play to get her back, I don't see what harm it could bring to have her within our close watch." He said. Snape just sat there seething, he knew that now they had the idea firmly in their heads it would take a hit from that dam willow tree to get it out he didn't like it one bit but as far as he was concerned his job, once he made Narcissa forget. Would be over, if Minerva wanted to saddle herself with a baby with a soul that was very perceptible to darkness then she was welcome to do so.
"And if we watch for any straggling followers that might be around, we can keep her protected. But I doubt that will be the case once everything is sorted." He finished with a smile as Minerva nodded happily. Severus merely grimaced and stood. He nodded a little to both of them and eyed the baby,
"Well if this is what it's come to then I will not judge you on your choice" He said to them but both knew that he did. "Now if you will excuse me. I need to go and make a draft to take to Narcissa…I will just say it's a calming draught." He muttered more to himself as he turned and swept from the room. They watched him go as the door shut behind him leaving the other two still sat. Albus looked to his deputy and saw the smile she still bore as she looked at, what was soon to be. Her new daughter with something that he hadn't quiet seen in a long time in her eyes.
He may have had his doubts but he couldn't deny that this was what she needed, maybe they would be good together and so let go of his irrational fears for the time being. There would be time to worry later. Right now he was just enjoying the sight of his once cold, friend. Brighten up with new life.
"Are you sure this is what you want Tabby?" He asked her, she glanced over to him and nodded. "Most definitely, Albus. Like I said before she needs someone. If we placed her with Muggles. When the time came she might end up feeling alone once she realized that the people she called mum and dad, didn't share what she had. At least with me I can teach her properly, make sure she knows what's right and wrong."
She smiled once more as Hermione pressed her hand to her cheek. "And I'll be happy being the one to do so."
He gazed at her with concerned eyes before touching on a subject he knew sensitive. But needed to be said.
"But are you sure you can handle the responsibility? It has been years Minerva. What with the death of—"
"Stop right there" She hissed cutting him off he could see the underlying anger in her eyes as she drew herself up, "You think that just because I'm widowed that I cannot be able to look after a child?" She glared at him as he raised his hands in his defence. She couldn't believe him he was her oldest friend….Didn't he just say that he would support her in this and know suddenly brought the topic of her beloved husband up?
She looked at him in slight disdain as he spoke.
"Not in the slightest Tabby. You know that. I was just merely thinking of the notion of support. It takes a lot to raise a child and being by youself I'm only looking out for your well-being." He could see her relax slightly but still a little tense as she stayed silent for a few moments before speaking.
"….I understand. And I thank you for your concern. But it is neither wanted nor warranted. Lots of people are single parents and they do just fine. Look at Augusta, she is having to raise Neville on his own and so far she is fairing just fine."
He didn't say anything knowing that was true and though different when it came to her daughter. He knew she would do just as good a job bringing him up, he knew her reasoning and was ashamed at his thoughts, lowering his head a little. He nodded his apology.
"I'm sorry tabby. It was wrong of me to think that and even more so to bring up something still painful. Can you forgive me" She sighed and nodded. She couldn't be mad at him for too long, not when he really was only looking out for her and she would need that in the years to come.
"As long as I have your friendship and support Albus. That's all I'll need"
Dumbledore returned her smile and nodded, "Well I think she'll be very happy having someone like you for a Mother, Minerva. I have always said you would make a good one and now is your chance." He stopped at the slight moisture in her eyes and knew that it was a touchy subject still and so let it go. She stood and reaffirmed her grip on the little baby who was snuggled into her neck.
"I shall bid you goodnight. Albus" He dipped his head at her as she smiled and turned to leave he watched as Hermione made to reach for Fawkes but looked like she was waving instead as the Phoenix trilled his goodbye. The door shut but he carried on looking at the solid wood for a little longer.
He knew that Tabby would defend her new family with her life. Just like she did with her Gryffindor's and so knew that she would be safe with her, he still had Snape to try to convince but the way he brushed it off after realizing they weren't budging. Made him think that wouldn't be much of a problem.
All in all if none of them uttered a word about what was now their little secret. And they stuck to the plan of keeping her so that they could watch and protect her, then everything looked like it would work out perfectly. Tabby would get a family, a child would get a Mother. One who was much more deserving, and Voldemort's heir would grow up knowing that she would be loved and not burdened with responsibility.
He sighed happily feeling that the situation had been handled better than expected as he picked up his quill and summoned a piece of parchment. Now that Minerva was serious about this. He had an appointment to make for her, and got around to writing his letter.
Hope everyone liked it...Took me forever as it's by far my longest chapter to date for any of my stories...Just my HP one's anyway.
If it's not to much. Could I possibly get maybe two, three review's...I don't like to guilt the readers but this will be my only exception. The next won't be as long but it will have more baby Hermione and Minerva interaction, so if you want to see that then let me know what you think.
Until the next time, :)