A/N: Annnnnnd we're back! Hopefully this chapter finds all of you well! Sorry for the slight cliffhanger of last chapter, I didn't really realize that it was one until it was pointed out to me by the comments. I won't go on and on as I usually do, but I would like to put in a quick warning. There is a fair amount of language in one portion of this chapter. If that's not your thing I do apologize, but no one would take the bottle away from Professor Sinistra and that woman really knows how to party. So, without further ado I present part 2 of chapter 6!
There are a few lines in this chapter pulled directly from OoTP so if you recognize those, that's where they came from. Obviously, I am not JK Rowling and, also obviously, I'm not making money from these two lovely characters.
Mostly empty at this time of year, Hogwarts and her inhabitants sat in a peaceful slumber, awaiting the arrival of its students. This late in the summer, the staffroom remained perfectly empty and quiet. The other professors were either out enjoying their vacation, spending time with their loved ones, or hiding away somewhere within the castle. For Severus and Minerva, days like this meant they had no scruples about getting completely knackered before noon.
Knowing Severus as she did, she knew he'd need a day like this after Potter's trial. The damnable man just couldn't find it in himself to congratulate the boy, or their own justice system for actually following the laws. Minerva had come prepared with a full bottle of her best scotch and all the patience she could muster.
"So once again the great Harry Potter has escaped unscathed," Severus grumbled from behind his glass. Only the slightest hint of a slur evident in his speech.
"Come now Severus," Minerva chided gently, "don't sound too disappointed that Potter will return this year."
"I should never have gotten my hopes up," he quipped. Draining his tumbler Severus sighed heavily. "It was too much of an ask for a year without him."
"I'm certain you'll survive. If nothing else take comfort in the knowledge that He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named was thwarted once more."
Severus cocked an eyebrow at that. "You believe that it was the Dark Lord behind the attack?"
"Of course I do," Minerva responded curtly as she swirled her drink around the glass. "Two rogue dementors attack the Boy Who Lived. Who else would do such a thing?" It had been the most obvious think in the world, and she couldn't, for the life of her, understand why he would question such a thing.
Calculation gleamed from the Potion Master's eyes as he appraised his companion. "Answer me this then, why would the Dark Lord send creatures after the boys rather than his faithful servants? Why would he send anyone at all?
"To be rid of always been a nuisance to him since birth," Minerva answered as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.
Severus nodded. "You're correct the boy has been a nuisance since birth," he smirked in an unkind fashion that reminded Minerva of the reasons she'd originally disliked the man across from her. "A thorn in the Dark Lord's side for years now, to the point that he has a personal vendetta against Potter. One that the Dark Lord wishes to deal with himself. Sending dark creatures after the boy to kill him wouldn't suit the Dark Lord. Not to mention the fact that he has no idea where Potter is. If he knew such things the boy's relatives would be surrounded and, idiot boy that Potter tends to be, he would have been captured already."
Severus paused in his reasoning to allow Minerva time to think. And think she did.
How had she missed something so blatantly obvious? Certainly, there were holes in Severus's logic – perhaps You-Know-Who was simply tired of waiting, or perhaps he had finally discovered the boy's location and the dementor attack had been the fall out of that event – but the man spoke sense. You-Know-Who wouldn't have left the boy's fate to chance unless there was no other option.
And attacking the boy and his cousin in a darkened alley in Surrey didn't qualify as an event with no other options. But if it hadn't been You-Know-Who, the who had it been?
As if he'd been following her thoughts exactly, Severus nodded slowly, tracing his lips with a long finger as he watched her think. "But if not the Dark Lord, then who?" he asked. "Quite the little conundrum isn't it."
"Surely it would have to be someone with access to the creatures," Minerva reasoned, not liking where this conversation was leading.
"Exactly. And that is a very concerning notion indeed isn't it."
Despite the overarching climate of fear and unease that clung to the inhabitants of Hogwarts, Severus had settled into a rhythm of sorts. He spent his weeks teaching and playing the part of hated professor while simultaneously spending his nights and weekends walking the razor edge of Death Eater spy and Order member. All while under the scrutinizing eyes of Dolores Jane Umbridge. The woman he'd begun to hate almost as much as the Dark Lord.
She'd threatened him once already in order to obtain several doses of Veritaserum. A potion most likely to be used on Potter for one reason or another. Though he'd warned her about the legality of such actions, Umbridge had shrugged off his advice. Callously suggesting that if he did not want his own past and current actions scrutinized then he should do as she asked. He doubted the toad-like woman had been clever enough to note that the potion he'd provided her with was not Veritaserum. The potion might have left Potter fatigued after ingestion, but it had no powers of a persuasive nature.
Despite Severus's ardent dislike of Potter, he had promised to keep the boy safe. Unfortunately, that promise extended to even the likes of Umbridge.
However, Umbridge hadn't been his only issue since the beginning of term. The Dark Lord was growing more determined by the day. Patience and a discipline born of being violently torn from his body had left the Dark Lord far deadlier this time around. Each of his actions and plans had been carefully constructed and acted upon only for each to fail miserably. Creating a hostile environment for those Death Eaters unfortunate enough to displease their master. As member of both the Death Eaters and the Order, Severus found himself on that list more often than not.
While he'd been able to provide the Dark Lord with valuable information, that information usually turned into a double-edged sword. He couldn't allow the Order to suffer too great a loss, but he had to ensure that the Dark Lord felt the intelligence he provided was worthwhile.
Such a strenuous rhythm of life left the Potions Master more drained and irritable than he could ever remember being. The only bright spot of his days were those moments by the staff room fireside every Friday night. He'd continued his weekly meetings with Minerva, in spite of the dangers associated with such familiarity.
He'd reasoned that the dangers associated with breaking that friendship outweighed any benefits. Any Death Eater who questioned that relationship too closely could be forced to understand that breaking away from too many of his prior relationships would lead to uncomfortable questions from the Order. As a spy, it was in his best interest to befriend those closest to Dumbledore. Not even the Dark Lord could refute that.
Which is why Severus found himself awaiting Minerva's company early this Friday evening. His meetings with the Dark Lord continued to deteriorate as the Death Eater's continued failing to gain the prophecy. His relationships within the castle and within the Order had never been that positive to begin with. Which meant that Minerva McGonagall was his only saving grace at the moment.
If he found himself eager to enjoy her company, then he could hardly blame himself.
Which is why when said professor entered the staff room accompanied by the Umbridge toad, Severus found his good mood sinking like a stone. Tonight, would not be the reprieve he so desperately needed.
Resigning himself to his fate, Severus pulled on his best scowl as Minerva sat several bottles of butterbeer on the table between them.
"Minerva," he nodded sharing a significant look with the woman that said more than words ever could.
Unfortunately, Umbridge spoke up before the Head of Gryffindor could. "Good evening, Severus," the Ministry worker said in that high voice Severus had come to despise. "I ran into Minerva here on her way up and decided to join the two of you this evening. I hope you don't mind."
Of course we mind, you insufferable toad, he did not say out loud. "I'm glad you were able to find time in your busy schedule to do so," Severus said instead.
Minerva's smirk relayed that she'd caught his sarcasm even if Umbridge hadn't. "Yes, I was delighted to learn that Dolores was free this evening as well." The thin set of Minerva's lips certainly insinuated otherwise. Leaning forward she took a butterbeer from the table and handed it over to Severus before taking one for herself. "Absolutely delighted," she muttered darkly.
Umbridge simpered as Minerva attempted to hand her a bottle as well. "No thank you Minerva," the toad said. "I never touch the stuff myself."
It took every ounce of self-control that Severus possessed to prevent himself from laughing at Minerva's long-suffering expression. If death could be captured within a glare, he felt certain that the one she shot at Umbridge would have qualified.
"I've never really had a taste for alcohol of any sort," Umbridge continued, ignorant to the tension building within the room. "Too many fine witches and wizards find themselves slaves to the substance."
Knowing that he shouldn't, but completely unable to stop himself Severus interjected his own opinion. "It is a shame isn't it," he supplied, and he rather thought Minerva's neck might have cricked with the speed with which she turned her head to him. "I myself never touched the stuff until I came here. Teaching and poor influences will drive a man to try new things."
"Poor influences indeed," Umbridge agreed nodding soberly in a manner that only a blind man would have taken seriously. "As I understand it, you were quite young when you gained your position here. I hope none of our illustrious colleagues were the ones who led you astray."
A sly half smile at Minerva was the only warning he provided. "I'm afraid I cannot assuage your fears Dolores. It was our own Professor McGonagall here who led me down this dark path. Though I do believe I'm her only victim." He added the last after receiving a murderous scowl from the woman in question.
"You are both aware that there's not actually any alcohol in butterbeer right?" Minerva snapped.
"There was plenty of alcohol in the fire whiskey you brought me that night," Severus quipped.
Minerva's following glare was finally deadly enough to silence him for the remainder of the evening. Though the sharp pain in his foot as the woman subtly ground her heel into it almost made him reconsider. Unfortunately, Umbridge had no such compunctions.
"Minerva, I'm shocked that you would willingly pressure someone so young into such a filthy habit," Umbridge somehow succeeded in keeping her voice on the fine line between scolding and teasingly scandalized. If Severus had liked the woman he might even be impressed.
"Yes," Minerva managed not to snap, "well give it a month or so and you too might change your tune Dolores."
"I rather doubt it dear. Though rumor has it that you two have created quite the little habit of such meetings every week."
The words seemed innocent enough, but Severus hadn't achieved his position as a double agent without the ability to pick up on thinly veiled threats. And though she covered herself well, the slight disapproval in Umbridge's tone and the knowing way in which she leaned towards them did little to hide her true intentions for this evening.
Placing his empty bottle onto the table, Severus acted before Minerva could dig herself into a hole of indignation. "You'll soon discover how pertinent it is to have a confidant to complain to and grade essays with. Minerva and I have spent many a weekend in this very room doing just that. It is necessary for survival as a professor."
Umbridge's eyes narrowed ever-so-slightly. "And yet none of the other professors feel the need to join the two of you? That's not very collegiate of them is it?"
Dangerous waters indeed.
"Several other professors have joined us over the years," Minerva responded coldly. "However, Severus and I have committed to meeting up each week – which tends to be rather beneficial for our respective positions as Head of House – while the others merely join us on occasion or meet up at different times. It isn't such an oddity as you seem to believe, Dolores."
"That's quite the commitment. I didn't realize that the two of you enjoyed such a close relationship," Umbridge supplied.
Severus was about to respond that it didn't take a relationship for two colleagues to find themselves in the same space each week, but Minerva got there first.
"Severus and I have known each other for years," she said. "We've been through several staff changes and students together. That does tend to breed such a relationship."
Though he didn't allow his shock to show on his face, Severus was beyond touched at her proclamation. He'd long considered Minerva as the closest thing to a friend as he could have. But he'd never held onto the notion that she felt the same way. Sure, she'd helped him through some difficult times and had been there for him through the years, but he'd always assumed that she chalked it up to her duty. Apparently, he'd been wrong.
"You're still rather new Dolores," Severus responded after he'd recovered. "You'll develop similar relationships as you work."
"I certainly hope I'll find Hogwarts as companionable as you two seem to."
With that enigmatic phrase, Umbridge excused herself and left the professors to their thoughts.
"I dislike her on a cellular level," Minerva admitted when they were certain the toad was gone.
The corner of Severus's mouth twitched ever so slightly towards a smile. "I had picked up on that."
"You're dead to me by the way."
"I just wanted to help her feel included," Severus argued playfully. "Showing her the more human side of the stern Head of Gryffindor."
"Dead. To. Me."
This time Severus couldn't hold back his chuckle. A flick of his wand turned the abominable butterbeer into something far stronger allowing the two companions to finally enjoy their evening.
"So, are we placing bets on who's sacked first or are we actively trying to be the first ones kicked out?" Severus asked in the dry, witty manner for which he was so well known.
Minerva cast him a disapproving look over her glass. "This is a serious matter Severus," she chided. "The Ministry has infiltrated the school and Fudge is using that position to undermine Dumbledore at every possible turn. Not really the sort of thing you should joke about."
The infuriating Potions Master merely shrugged in response. "I'm not joking at all. Merely attempting to discover our position in the current matter. I'd hate to waste good money on a strong candidate only to lose because you've decided to infuriate the newest staff member."
"You're impossible," Minerva answered. However, despite her best attempts, she couldn't contain the smile that quirked across her face at Severus's quips.
"Just trying to figure out who's the smart money this time around."
Minerva leaned back into her armchair heavily. Exasperated at their current predicament and only slightly annoyed by her colleague's mocking attitude, the Head of Gryffindor ran a hand across her face. She'd known this year would be challenging to say the least. He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named had returned and was currently gaining power and followers while the Ministry chose to remain oblivious.
The reinstatement of the Order of the Phoenix and the carefully laid plans of the summer had given her hope that they could possibly gain an upper hand. However, the return to Hogwarts and subsequent shows of Ministry corruption had evaporated those early hopes. Dolores Umbridge currently operated with the full might of the Ministry behind her and yet, the ignorant woman chose to focus on undermining the only man who might be able to orchestrate He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named's downfall.
Their situation was rather dire.
"Minerva," came Severus's voice, softened in a manner she rarely heard. Apparently, her darkening mood had attracted more notice than she'd intended. Glancing up she noted a hint of worry play around the edges of the man's expression as his eyebrows furrowed together. "I apologize. I didn't intend to make light of such a serious matter."
"It's alright, Severus," Minerva assured him. "I need a good chuckle every now and then. Especially these days."
"Then why the glum face?"
Sighing loudly, she took another swig of liquid courage and decided to openly discuss her fears with the only person who might truly understand. "I feel as though I should be doing more for the cause than bandying words with that imposter of a professor."
Severus's face relaxed in the way she'd only seen when they were alone. A look she'd begun attributing to the fact that he did, despite everything, find some measure of trust and comfort in her presence. The look warmed her heart ever so slightly.
"Minerva, you do as much for the cause as anyone else," he answered in a quiet calming voice. "You protect the students under your care with a ferocity that few others can manage, and you refuse to fold under the might of the Ministry's regulations. Your advice is not something anyone would shirk and you provide it freely. And you watch over those of us less inclined to watch our tongues when appropriate. Don't count yourself out of the fight, you do more than you know."
Shock held her tightly in its grasp for several minutes after Severus's encouragement. Had the bat of the dungeons just gotten sentimental with her? She, more than anyone, knew that the foreboding man had the capability for positive emotions, but never had she been on the receiving end of such kindness from him. Yes, he'd shown a large amount of respect towards her in the past; however, that respect had never lent itself as close to fondness as his previous words had.
Minerva sat quietly for so long that she could tell Severus had begun to feel awkward. The man had exposed a part of himself she hadn't seen in the fourteen years she'd known him and now she was screwing it up. Quickly coming back on balance, Minerva tilted her head slightly in acknowledgement of his kind words.
"Thank you, Severus," she managed to say. "That… that means more than you know."
The two returned to their drinks in a silence that remained tinged with awkwardness but held more warmth and companionship than she could ever recall feeling before.
"That evil conniving hag," Minerva huffed as she paced around her office, cursing Umbridge in a new fashion with each turn. "That absolute toad of a woman."
Though the staff room would have been their usual meeting place for such a tirade it had been deemed unsafe. Therefore, they'd been relegated to their respective offices – Minerva's this time around – to engage in such conversations.
"Minerva," Severus attempted placatingly, "you don't even like Sybil."
"I like her a hell of a lot more than I like that amphibian masquerading as a Defense professor."
The venom with which she spoke stunned him for a moment. Minerva had always been the fairest of the Hogwarts professors. She'd befriended him of all people, and hadn't that been a study in patience and kindness? The woman rarely spoke ill of her colleagues, Lockhart being the only notable exception, and even then, it hadn't been the level of hatred she exhibited right now.
Recovering quickly he settled for trying to humor the angry professor. "I thought hating the defense professors was my gimmick?"
"You aren't the only one who can hate another professor Severus," she snapped in reply.
"Yes, but I am the most practiced at such feats."
Minerva huffed angrily in reply but otherwise ignored his assertion.
Sighing and leaning back in his seat, Severus steepled his fingers and looked over the furious Head of Gryffindor. He was angry at the Ministry's actions as well. The foolish Minister had been blinded by his years of comfort and now made their lives miserable as both professors and Order members. Yet, Severus knew that they'd expected such actions since the Dark Lord's return last year. It made little sense for Minerva to be railing against something they'd known would occur.
"Minerva," he attempted in a softer voice, "I know you hate the woman as much as any of us, but we knew this would happen. Umbridge has been looking for someone to sacrifice since she received her High Inquisitor position. At least this time it was Sybil and not someone who truly adds to the protection of the students."
Minerva's eyes flashed and her nostrils flared as she turned her ire upon him. "That does not make it right Severus. Surely you can see that."
"I never said it was right," he answered calmly. "But Sybil has not been kicked out of the castle. She remains under Dumbledore's protection and the Headmaster has already chosen a new candidate for the lost position. One who will not be lost under the fold of the Ministry. We haven't lost anything Minerva."
The woman's shoulders slumped as anger seemed to roll off her. The resulting defeat that plastered across Minerva's countenance unsettled Severus as few other things could. "She humiliated Sybil in front of the entire castle. That's what worries me Severus. Fudge may be acting in such a manner because he's willfully remaining ignorant, but that toad of a woman…she's enjoying this. And now she'll be on the war path."
Minerva was worried about her other colleagues, that made more sense than useless anger. Tracing his lips with one finger, Severus contemplated their predicament in silence for several long minutes. The older woman had a point. Umbridge had expected to win tonight, and yet she'd lost not only her attempt at kicking someone out of Hogwarts but her confidence and credibility with the students. The old hag thought she was in the right. She enjoyed lording over them with sadistic pleasure.
Minerva had a point. Umbridge would be looking for the next lamb to slaughter.
"She won't be able to touch those most significant to Hogwarts's safety," Severus said carefully. "She'd have to have more to go on than a close relationship with Dumbledore for that to work."
"Like knowledge that a certain staff member used to be a Death Eater?" said Minerva pointing out her fears without hesitation. "Or perhaps that one of our staff is half giant, something that hag is notoriously against. There are little things should could use for each of us. But she wants someone close to Dumbledore. Umbridge and Fudge need to show him that they are the ones really in control."
"I was cleared of all charges some time ago and Hagrid can take care of himself," Severus replied attempting to comfort the woman. "Something small like Sinistra's love for alcohol or Rolanda's loose morals aren't going to be Umbridge uses to remove someone from staff. It's not enough for public credibility. Especially considering how long the current staff have been employed."
"So, you're not frightened that your past could come back to haunt you?"
"Not in this case. I happen to be in the good graces of Lucius Malfoy who has more sway over Fudge than Umbridge does."
Something close to relief poured from Minerva at that assertion, but tension stole up her spine just as quickly as it had dissipated. "And Hagrid? You think he has such favor?"
Severus couldn't comfort her this time. "Like I said, Hagrid can take care of himself. He won't be taken to Azkaban again, that much is certain."
"I hope you're correct Severus."
Nodding in agreement, Severus found himself inclined to agree with that hope.
"Potter has gone too far this time," Severus seethed angrily as he and Minerva sat, stunned in his office. "The boy acts without thinking of potential consequences," Severus added. "He's just like his father."
She'd just relayed the events of Dumbledore's escape and Severus was equal parts furious and concerned. How could Potter be so spectacularly ignorant?
"I think I rather agree with you on this one Severus," said Minerva shocking the Potions Master into silence. Noting his reaction, she continued. "I don't blame him for forming a defense group, that's practical, but to call themselves Dumbledore's Army and act foolishly enough to write it down…"
Minerva shook her head unable to continue voicing her opinion. For the first time it seemed as though Minerva agreed with his sentiments about the two Potters. And although he agreed wholeheartedly with the Transfiguration Professor, he found himself impressed with Potter's blatant cheek.
"Dumbledore's Army," he scoffed. "The sheer cheek to name themselves as such. The Ministry's greatest fear."
"And Albus went right along with it, of course," said Minerva. Burying her head in her hands, she shook her head defeatedly. "He was just as shocked as we are."
"Now he's left us to deal with Umbridge," Severus sighed. "How very kind of him."
"He didn't have a choice, Severus."
"And yet he's the one free of the old hag," he bemoaned. "Why couldn't they have called themselves Snape's Army. Then I'd have a valid reason to leave as well."
To his delight Minerva's black mood seemed to dissipate ever so slightly. "If they'd named themselves after you, I'd be the first to die of shock."
"What are you implying Minerva?"
"I think we can both agree that you don't exactly inspire insolence or rebellion in your students," she chuckled.
The two fell into a comfortable silence, each contemplating the new difficulties facing them.
"You realize Albus will expect us to protect the students and staff?" Minerva asked.
"How unfortunate for the staff and students," Severus quipped. "To be left with only you and me between them and the might of the Ministry."
Minerva's eyebrows rose in response. The look she shot him was peculiar and seemed to pierce straight through him in the way Dumbledore's gaze always did. "I wouldn't choose anyone else to stand by side in this, Severus."
Touched beyond belief, Severus merely nodded as he agreed with her for the second time that evening.
Rage consumed Severus as he launched a jar of frogspawn at Potter's head. Luckily for both parties the offending jar connected with the door frame instead of the belligerent boy. How dare Potter look into the pensieve? To see the worst memory in Severus's life of terrible memories.
Hand shaking and tremors of sheer rage racking his body, he flung himself into his desk chair. Looking over the Headmaster's tool, Severus watched as the memory continued. He hated that memory. Hated what Potter and Black had done to him that day. What they'd driven him to and all that they'd cost him.
He'd lost Lily that day at the lake and he'd never had the chance to make it up to her. He lost the one person who had thought he mattered. The only person to have ever cared about him.
And now Potter had seen.
The boy hadn't made it far enough into the memory to watch his father and god father strip the pathetic Slytherin they'd entrapped, but Potter had seen enough. A vindictive part of Severus hoped that now Potter would understand just how loathsome a human being his father had been. But the rest of him was too mortified at the implications of this situation to hold onto that.
What if Potter blabbed to his friends or the rest of the school? Severus had worked so hard to build himself a respectful position at this school. To ensure that no student would ever again call him by the nickname that had plagued his school years. He'd worked to be certain that no student would ever feel they could have control of an area that rightfully belonged to him. Now with a few words all of that could be gone.
Panic replaced anger as his eyes fell to the memory once more. Black's face filled the pensieve. That awful smirk plastered across his face. Severus hated him. Hated all of them. Not just the Marauders, but everyone who'd stood by and laughed at him that day. Of course no one wanted to help some greasy git of a Slytherin, but to stand by like that and enjoy his suffering…
The memory played on and suddenly it was as if Severus had fallen back in time.
"Geez Sniv no wonder you're so angry all the time," Black sneered as he stared unabashedly at the now stripped Severus hanging before them. "I would be too."
A chorus of laughter followed his remark carving lines of shame deeper into Severus than ever before. No clever words or comment came to mind at Black's taunting. So, with great teenage wit he responded with an eloquent, "bugger off."
It was James Potter's snort that echoed through the mist of memory this time. "Yeah not likely for you Snivellus." The other boy paused observing his struggling prey before continuing. For the briefest moment something that Severus would have termed regret in anyone else glinted through Potter's eyes. But the next moment the boy's words cut sharper than any knife. "It's a shame really. You'd think nature would've given you some assets to work with."
Suddenly the werewolf sprinted over whether to join in or actually act like a prefect Severus wasn't certain, but he hated the boy for either action.
"Hagrid is walking up this way," Lupin gasped.
Lupins words sobered the crowd as they began shifting slowly away. Though he doubted the Games Keeper was truly on his way over, Potter released the spell and Severus fell to ground in a heap. Snatching his wand up, he turned a hateful glare at the boys who'd so thoroughly humiliated him.
Wearing identical smirks Potter and Black raised their wands in unison. A litany of curses ran through Severus's mind as he fought with embarrassment and anger. Mortification won out in the end causing him to grab his bag and – for one of the only times in his life – run away as fast as his feet could carry him.
Pushing past the students milling about the Great Hall, he didn't stop until he made it to the dungeons. Severus locked himself in the first supply closet he came to before collapsing. Overwhelming shame and anger battled for dominance within him as he pulled his knees to his chest and buried his head. Wrapping his arms tightly around himself, Severus did his best to stem the tide of worthlessness that assaulted him as shame once again proved victorious. Try though he might to stop them, tears rolled down his face and an inhuman sob tore from his body.
First, they'd tried to murder him now this. Their hatred apparently knew no bounds. Generally, he wouldn't care what the blasted marauders thought of him. But today it was all too much. It hadn't just been them today.
They'd proved that the whole school hated him.
That much was obvious. No one had lifted a finger to help him. They'd laughed and taunted him right alongside the Marauders. Well, that wasn't completely true. Lily had tried. Humiliating him further whether that's what she intended or not. Having his best friend – a girl no less – defending him did Severus no favors. He hadn't been able to reign in his anger at the entire bloody universe in that moment. Then after he'd so unkindly dismissed her, she'd added to the Marauders taunting as well. Which admittedly hurt more than anything the others could have done.
A gasp escaped the young man.
Lily.
Realization slammed into Severus. He'd hurt her. Terribly so. He may have been the one absolutely humiliated in front of everyone, but she wasn't the person to take that out on. He'd called her a mudblood. Dread crept its way in followed by a crashing wave of remorse. She'd responded in kind, but he started it. He'd deserved her ire after doing something so terrible.
Jumping to his feet, Severus wrenched open the door and set out for Gryffindor tower. Unsure of how much time had passed since the incident, he did his best to keep to the lengthening shadows of the castle. Apparently, he'd been in the closest for a decent amount of time, for the sun had set and the moon slowly made its ascent. He made the climb to the seventh floor carefully, hoping to avoid any other soul. Most importantly hoping to avoid a very specific four souls.
To his annoyance, fear settled in his stomach at the thought of seeing the Marauders again. But if meant he got the chance to apologize to Lily then he could deal with Potter and Black once more. She was worth the risk.
Memories ghosted past him, shifting and reforming as the old scenes reset themselves. He remembered waiting outside the Gryffindor Common Room for hours that night. Enduring the mocking glances and snickering of everyone who passed. He'd listened to the taunts and every lewd comment, refusing to retaliate. He couldn't risk it. Not if he wanted to speak with Lily.
A new memory swirled around him, solidifying until Minerva, some twenty years younger, faced him.
"And what might you be doing so far from your common room at this hour Mr. Snape," the curt woman asked.
Severus felt his heart stop. What if she sent him back to his common room? What if he didn't get to speak with Lily tonight?
"I'm waiting on some work Professor," he lied with ease. "Lily Evans promised me that she'd let me borrow notes for our Transfiguration OWL exam tomorrow. Sh,she should be right back down."
Doubt clear in her expression, McGonagall narrowed her eyes. "It's getting very close to curfew Mr. Snape. You'd do well not to be caught out past it."
With that advice the woman had left him. Another hour or two passed - putting him out well past curfew - before another sign of life appeared. Mary McDonald stalked up the stairs looking surly as ever.
"What are you doing here Snape?" She asked.
"I need to speak with Lily," he answered desperately. He had little pride left so what did it matter if he begged now.
Mary's answering look left him with no doubt of how difficult his task would be. "From what I hear she doesn't want anything to do with the likes of you."
"McDonald, please. I... I just need to speak with her."
"Well I will wouldn't hedge my bets on her coming back out anytime soon," the girl pointed out in a slightly kinder tone.
"Then I'll sleep out here. I have to see her."
Mary's brow furrowed as she contemplated him. Seconds ticked by agonizingly slow as she calculated the risks of helping the likes of him.
Ripping himself from the memory with a gasp, Severus pulled himself out of the chair. Gripping his desk with white hands, he allowed grief to roll through him. He didn't need to see Lily again, not like that. Mary McDonald had gotten her out to speak with him, but Lily hadn't wanted to speak with him.
His, admittedly poor apologies, had fallen on deaf ears.
She hadn't forgiven him they day or any of the days the followed. He'd lost everything in one moment born of humiliation and rage. And Lily had finally seen him for what he truly was. A greasy freak that wasn't worth her time.
Severus had always known that was living on borrowed time with Lily someone like her just didn't hang out with someone like him for very long.
In the aftermath he'd tried to reason with himself that it was simply the story of his life. Everyone he cared about would eventually understand that he wasn't worth their time. His parents had never truly cared, and it had taken him far too long to realize that. The guys he called friends were little more than people who didn't constantly make fun of him. But that hadn't made Lily's rejection hurt any less.
He lost the only person who ever really cared about him and he could never find it in himself to forgive James Potter or Sirius Black for their part in that loss. With Lily gone he'd had nothing left to hold on to. And in her absence, Malfoy's kindness and blatant manipulation had reached him when nothing else could. Pathetic as it seemed, he'd been desperate for the kind words and affection shown to him by Malfoy and the future Death Eaters. Their promise of power ensured that no one could ever hurt him again. It had seemed too good to pass up.
But losing Lily hadn't been worth it. She'd died believing the absolute worst about him. And after what he'd done to her, the part he'd played in her death, Severus knew he deserved that.
He'd been alone ever since. Unable to bring himself to allow anyone else that close. If he didn't let anyone in, then they couldn't hurt him when they left. And leave they would.
He'd made two exceptions to that rule over the years since Lily's death. Albus and Minerva.
As his mentor, Albus had become the father figure he'd always burned for. Their relationship certainly hadn't started out that way, but Severus had proven himself over the years and Albus had proven that he wouldn't walk away. The man had stood up for him time and time again. If there was anyone in this world Severus trusted beyond a doubt, it was Albus Dumbledore.
Minerva remained the only other exception. That stubborn woman had worn down his well-established walls and rules like a battering ram. He still wasn't certain what they meant to one another, but he felt confident in his belief that she considered him a friend.
Severus operated under the knowledge that losing those two would break him. For there was no doubt in his mind that he would eventually lose them. He didn't deserve happiness. All that mattered in his life was that he atone for his past sins and that he kept Potter safe. Severus found peace in the knowledge that when he did eventually lose Albus and Minerva, he wouldn't survive long after.
The staff room had become a place of hazard since Umbridge's reign began. However, now that she held the title of Headmistress it seemed the old hag had far less time to discourage the gossiping professors. Minerva and Severus had stubbornly continued their old habit, refusing to be cowed by the woman. Yet, even Minerva had to admit that their conversations had become more subdued. They spent less time discussing real issues on Friday nights and more time on trivialities.
The other staff members had long since cleared the area. Instead they met in hidden alcoves or dark corners of the castle. When not even your office was safe, things became rather desperate.
Minerva and Severus were a bottle deep by the time Umbridge made her routine appearance this week.
"Oh, bloody hell," Severus vocalized for them both at the sight of the witch.
"How delightful to see you Dolores," Minerva lied, covering her friends minor slip.
"I see that the two of you did not take my last warning seriously," Umbridge intoned as she glanced condescendingly between the bottles on the table and the two slightly inebriated professors.
"Which warning do you think she's talking about?" Severus asked as if Umbridge wasn't standing right in front of them. "Is it the one where she'd sack us if we didn't tell her where Dumbledore was or the one where she told us the staff room wasn't an appropriate place to discuss politics?"
It took every ounce of self-restraint for Minerva to keep some semblance of a straight face as she responded. "Perhaps she's talking about the time she instructed us to keep reading materials not specifically related to our fields in our own rooms. Or do you think she's talking about when she got on to Rolanda about making lewd comments?"
"I'm speaking," a red faced Umbridge interjected, "about the conversation we had last week about keeping alcoholic beverages in the staff room."
"Ah, I see," Severus responded. "No worries Dolores, we've kept the alcohol in our rooms until just now. No problem."
"There most certainly is a problem Severus," the Ministry witch snapped. "You two are partaking of an adult substance while caring for several hundred students. You ought to be ashamed of yourselves."
Pulling on a scolded affect Minerva turned to Severus. "You know she's right. I feel just terrible about our decisions."
The glint of mischief in his normally cold eyes told her that he was willing to play along. "I know just the thing to improve this situation." With a flick of his wand a new bottle of Ogden's appeared on the table between them along with a third glass. "Dolores, would you care to join us."
It was too much, Minerva lost her sense of self and let out a barking laugh at the Potions Master's nerve.
Umbridge however, was less than amused. "The Minister will be hearing about this little habit I assure you."
Minerva rolled her eyes. "Since Cornelius," –Umbridge simpered at Minerva's use of his first name– "is the one who provided me with this bottle, I doubt he'll be concerned."
"I'm certain he did not intend for it to be drank inside the school."
"I'm certain that Cornelius is aware that Hogwarts is my home and, as such, is the only place I would partake of such a beverage."
Noting the dangerous note in the Head of Gryffindor's voice, Severus's silky tone added to the mix in an attempt to keep Minerva from killing the toad on the spot. "The Minister is certainly aware that, as legal adults with full rights, we partake in libations just as often he does."
"He does not drink on Ministry grounds!" Umbridge exclaimed in a girlish voice that barely masked her irritation.
With her eyes bugging out as such, Minerva found that the woman's resemblance to a toad be even more uncanny than normal.
Minerva snorted. "You should know better than to lie to a Professor Dolores. We're uncannily good at detecting false information. Severus here has a knack for it."
"Minerva's right, of course." Severus agreed taking a long drink from his glass. "Have enough students attempt to steal from your supply closest and you become quite adept at sorting lies from the truth."
"The staff room is not the place for such debauchery."
"You know Minerva, I find myself agreeing with our new fearless leader," Severus interjected. "Perhaps we ought to take our meetings to the Great Hall?"
A malicious delight that fascinated Severus shone from Minerva's eyes. "You're on to something Severus. But what if instead we go to the Owlery. That could be a hoot!"
"I hear the Astronomy Tower has a spectacular light show in the evenings."
"I know, the library! Pence would at least keep it silent for us."
"Perhaps we could use the Hospital Wing, I doubt Poppy would mind."
"She'd join us before kicking us out."
The two professors continued bouncing ideas off one another in quick succession, never giving Umbridge a moment to interrupt. However, when Minerva suggested the Headmaster's office as an option it seemed as if they'd pushed too far.
"That is enough!" Umbridge screeched in a voice shrill enough to break glass. "There will be a new Educational Decree out tomorrow. If you two find yourself incapable of conducting yourselves responsibly then I'm afraid I'll have to take action. Now, if you'll both excuse yourselves from the staff room, I'm afraid its in use for professors actually doing their jobs."
Despite the hostility with which they were kicked from the room, neither could suppress their laughter as they stood outside the staff room.
"Well, your office or mine Severus?" Minerva asked that same mischievous glint cemented in her eyes.
"I daresay we give the Headmaster's office a shot," he chuckled. "If anyone could get it in its us,"
"How about that, you are as clever as you look," she winked.
The two sauntered away not bothering to hide their bottle or keep their voices down. Though the Headmaster's office refused to let them enter, they did find a surprisingly comfortable room on the seventh floor. The evening passed in a lighthearted merriment neither had experienced since the war had begun.
The strange room on the seventh floor swiftly became the regular meeting place for those staff members disgruntled by Umbridge's reign. Which apparently pertained to every professor on payroll – Binns included – with the exception of Argus Filch. While Severus and Minerva had found themselves joined by one or two of their colleagues on Friday nights before, never had attendance been met so frequently. It began with a single addition of Professor Sprout and soon grew to include Madams Hooch and Pomfrey. By the time Filius and Sinistra kept regular visits they'd moved to meeting two or three times a week.
The upcoming O.W.L. exams did nothing to lighten the tension among the professors. Instead it increased the need for a safe place to escape the Ministry hag. With the staffroom no longer safe and the professors in need of a place to gripe about the ridiculous Ministry mandates, Severus and Minerva's secret after hours hideout had become the most popular place in the castle. To the delight of all it drove the old toad to madness when she was unable to discover where the staff were slipping off to between classes or after the evening meal.
There was only one snag to the updated meeting place. On the one hand, it did the staff good to come together for the explicit purpose of bad-mouthing the new Headmistress and venting their frustrations. Conversely, such incidents forced Severus to be in the company of more than just Minerva on a more and more frequent basis. Though he didn't necessarily dislike his colleagues, he certainly didn't cherish the thought of spending an excess amount of time with them. A feeling that remained perfectly mutual.
Minerva – mother hen that she was – had become the beacon of strength within the castle. The other staff members looked to her for leadership and guidance now that Dumbledore had vanished. The Head of Gryffindor had met these new expectations with all the grace and nerve Severus would have expected.
"It's absolutely ridiculous," Pomona bemoaned as she leaned back into the sofa lounge, she shared with Filius and Poppy. "That toad of a woman has taken everything from us. We can't teach as we should be able to and if we so much as breath wrong, she's liable to sack us."
"Can you believe," Sinistra added in a slurred voice that demonstrated just how many bottles of firewhiskey she'd contributed to the emptying of, "that the old bitch asked me if I should really be using centaur knowledge to teach astronomy?"
The room gave her a lock of somber understanding.
Emboldened the astronomy professor continued. "It's rather apparent that she didn't pay attention during her school years or even crack open a book afterwards. Of course I need to teach centaur teachings! They literally wrote the fucking book on this shit! Figuratively at least."
"If I'm forced to suffer through one more of her observations, I might break down and throw her from the window," Minerva added.
A smattering of applause implied that the others wholeheartedly agreed with such an action.
With a smirk, Severus raised his glass to the Transfiguration teacher. "I'll drink to that."
"Here fucking here," Sinistra agreed. She fixed Severus with a sharp look. "I never thought I'd meet someone who could out bastard you Snape. It appears I was wrong."
To Minerva's apparent amusement, a few other staff members seemed to agree with that sentiment. She flashed her own smirk at the now scowling Potions Master.
"I'll drink to that," Madam Hooch said with a wink. At the same time, Filius raised his glass.
After taking a long drink from his tumbler, Filius added his own two cents. "I'm still trying to decide if my favorite moment of the year was Potter's article in the Quibbler or the Weasley twin's escapades and escape."
Laughter smattered through the room infecting everyone, even Severus found himself hard pressed to keep the smile off his face.
"Potter's article was impressive," Hooch interjected, "but those boys flying out of the middle Great Hall is ingrained on my memory forever."
"Not to mention that damn swamp," Sinistra pipped in as she tossed her glass aside in favor of the whole bottle of fire whiskey.
"That was a rather remarkable bit of spell work," Vector acknowledged from the back of the room.
"No," Pomona contested as she leaned forward in her seat, joy creasing the lines in her face, "what was impressive were those fireworks. I still see one whizzing past my window every now and then. Those two are going to make a killing selling the bloody things."
Minerva's long-suffering smile stretched across her face. "And to think I gave them so many detentions this year for those illicit products they kept trying to sell in the Common Room. It's almost a disgrace those boys didn't do better on their O.W.L.s."
"If either of them had the attention span to do something constructive for more than five minutes at a time then they might have," Severus added in a quiet voice that carried through the whole room.
"I'd say they were constructive enough," Hooch argued with a grin. "They get my vote anyway."
"I'll drink to that," Minerva agreed.
As one the disgruntled staff of Hogwarts raised their glasses in memory of the two boys who'd caused such strife to their illustrious Headmistress.
"Come now Severus, tradition is tradition," Minerva chuckled from her seat by the large fire place the Room of Requirement had created for the evening.
"For the record I despise you," came his response, muffled behind the slightly ajar bathroom door.
Eyebrows creeping closer to her hairline, Minerva saw fit to remind him of their shared past with this bet. "I've played along perfectly well for the past several years, it's only fair."
With a groan of the greatest regret Severus Snape stepped out of the new staff room bathroom. Garbed in loud robes of scarlet and gold the Head of Slytherin looked properly mortified. Pleasure unlike anything she'd ever known sang through Minerva's soul. It was about bloody time.
"Severus, you really missed out by not being in Gryffindor," the Head of said house cackled. "Those colors really bring out your sunny disposition."
"This is a stupid tradition," he grumbled.
"It's hasn't been stupid when Gryffindor lost the Quidditch cup."
"Yes, but you don't need fear to command the respect of the students. This is going to ruin me if it gets out!"
"Come now Severus," she shrugged. "You don't need be so surly and it will be nice for the other staff members, at the very least, to know that you're somewhat human."
"I despise you."
"So, you've said."
To Minerva's delight and Severus's horror, the Room of Requirement opened to admit Filius, Rolanda, and Poppy. Laughing at Rolanda's expression of pure mischievous joy, Minerva decided that all the years of being squashed by Slytherin's Quidditch team had all been worth it in exchange for this evening.
The first thing Minerva saw after cracking open her eyes were two glasses and a large bottle of what looked like pumpkin juice. Her chest felt tight and everything ached. Even breathing caused her a small amount of discomfort. Looking around she noticed that she was most certainly not in the Hospital Wing, which could mean only one thing. She'd been taken to St. Mungo's. Sighing heavily – or as heavily as she could at current – Minerva looked once more to the bottle of pumpkin juice.
Surprise overtook the Head of Gryffindor as she noted her favorite drinking partner sitting in the chair beside her. Severus looked to be dozing off at the moment and she allowed her eyes over the Potions Master. The younger man looked haggard and far older than she knew him to be. Sallow skin pulled tight across his gaunt face highlighting the exhaustion worn into the lines of his face.
She'd known that Severus had been under a good deal of pressure this year, but this was the first time she'd seen physical evidence of that. In sleep he let down the walls and pretenses that usually guarded him. Without those in place to fool the world, Minerva found herself consumed by worry for her old friend.
Suddenly black eye opened and focused themselves on Minerva's roving gaze. Scowling at her from between curtains of greasy hair, Severus seemed to wait for her to speak first.
"Not up to your usual standard I'm afraid," she said acknowledging the bottle and glasses
Severus smirked in return. "That's your first remark?" he asked snidely. "After acting the brave Gryffindor idiot you are and taking four stunners to the chest. Not to mention all the trouble I went through to get you such a gift and the first thing you do is criticize it?"
Minerva couldn't help the soft chuckle that escaped. "It does seem terribly rude of me doesn't it? However, if you've not noticed, I'm currently in bed ridden and feeble so I get to say what I want without fear of consequence."
"How many of those pain potions have they given you?" He replied with narrowed eyes.
"Are you going to continue haranguing me or are you going to pour us a drink?"
With the smallest of nods Severus acquiesced. Pouring for both of them he took the smaller glass and handed it over to her.
"I'm afraid I'll need more than just this," Minerva complained, passing her glass back to him.
"Let's start with that and we'll go from there," he answered cryptically as he ignored her outstretched hand.
Uncertain as to why he was behaving so oddly, Minerva turned her glass up and drained it quickly. And nearly choked for her efforts.
"Why does this pumpkin juice taste suspiciously like it came from Rosemerta's top shelf?" She gasped between laughs.
"I did say that I went to a lot of trouble to get it here," he shrugged.
"I'm glad to know that not even the rules of St. Mungo's apply to the great Severus Snape."
That finally got a smile from him. "I'm glad to see that they don't apply to you either," he said acknowledging her outstretched hand.
"Oh, bugger off and pour us another glass."
"Tut, tut. Now is that anyway to speak to the man who's brought you such a lovely gift?"
"No, but it is the way to speak to the git refusing a poor old lady something to drink."
"There is nothing poor or old about you, Minerva," Severus snorted. His expression turned serious in a flash causing Minerva's quip to die on her tongue. The intensity of his gaze as he looked her over expressed a good deal more than his words ever could. "I… I am glad that you're okay, Minerva. Hogwarts would have been less without you."
Minerva nodded uncertain of how to respond to such raw emotion from the Potions Master.
"Besides," the man continued saving Minerva from her floundering words, "I'd hate to have to murder that Umbridge hag. Though it might bring some amount of joy, I don't need another mark on my already reprehensible record."
His sneer broke the moment and eased the tension in the room. "Not to mention the paper work involved in such a feat," she added helpfully. "I know how much you detest such things."
Severus's answering smile was the largest and most honest she'd ever seen from him.
Severus could feel the Dark Lord's fury before he made it through the doors of Malfoy Manor. He'd been exposed to the Ministry because his Death Eaters had failed him, and he'd experienced immense pain during his attempt to posses Potter. And Severus was to blame for at least a portion of the Dark Lord's failed plans.
He'd had to alert the Order after Potter's subtle and admittedly impressive message, surely the Dark Lord would understand that. Severus tried to convince himself that he'd find some leniency, but experience crawled to the forefront of his mind reminding him that such things generally didn't matter. He'd earned the Dark Lord's ire and now he had to deal with the consequences.
"Severus," the Dark Lord called as he entered Lucius's office. "I did wonder when I'd see you this evening."
Danger danced through every syllable of the man's words and cold fury lurked with his gaze. Bowing at his master's feet, Severus attempted to humble himself before the wizard.
"My Lord," he said carefully choosing his next words, "I came as soon as I was able. The Order has taken a serious blow this evening." He even managed to add a note of satisfaction into those words. He'd managed to outlive Black and he'd never have to listen to the man's taunts or insults again. Though a part of him lamented the loss of his favorite outlet for frustration, he couldn't find it in himself to mourn the man's death.
Severus could feel those red eyes appraising him, deciding just how angry the Dark Lord was with his servant. "Dumbledore is not the only one to have suffered loses tonight Severus."
The Potion Master gulped silently but held his place. Showing weakness in this moment would do nothing but get him killed. Still, the force of the Cruciatus curse that hit him took Severus completely by surprise. Writhing in pain in front of his former master, he did all he could to contain his cries of pain.
Experience had also taught him that the Dark Lord didn't respect those too weak to deal with pain. And Severus had experienced enough of it in his life to consider pain an old friend. The curse lifted after several agonizing minutes leaving the Potions Master gasping for air as he struggled back to his knees.
"I lost many faithful servants to the Ministry tonight and while they are certainly to be blamed for their failure, I believe that a good portion of their downfall must be placed on your shoulders. You alerted the Order to my plans."
It hadn't been a question and therefore Severus did not treat it as such. "I did my Lord," he confirmed. "Potter back me into a corner and I had little choice in the matter."
Apparently, his response had not been pleasing to the Voldemort. Five minutes ticked past as Severus succumbed to the Cruiciatus once more. Each of his nerve endings felt as if they were on fire by the time the curse was lifted. Occluding his mind to keep madness at bay could protect his sanity, but it didn't stop him from feeling every excruciating second of torture. Severus barely managed to pull himself back up before the Voldemort continued his berating.
"Your actions cost me the chance to hear the prophecy, Severus. Surely you can understand both my anger and my renewed suspicion."
"I serve only you my Lord," Severus gasped. "Dumbledore would have immediately suspected me if I had ignored Potter's warning. I had no choice."
Powerful magic pulsed through the room as Voldemort's fury unleashed itself on his servant. A darkness the likes of which Severus had never felt before coursed through him, tearing at his body and rending his very soul. Agony followed swiftly as unhinged magic flew around the room, attacking the only other living being.
White flashed before his eyes as he found himself thrashing on the floor once again. Whatever Voldemort had unleashed felt worse than anything he'd experienced thus far. His body felt as if it was being unmade, as if he would split in two. Try though he might, he couldn't occlude his mind. He couldn't shield any portion of himself from the torrent of power that assaulted him. Bones cracked and skin tore as madness slowly threatened to encroach his mind. Torture didn't even begin to describe it and he didn't even try to keep his screams contained.
And then suddenly, it ended.
Tremors wracked his body as Severus whimpered quietly. Huddled into a feeble mass on the floor, he prayed that it was over or that the Dark Lord would have mercy and kill him now. Anything would be better than what he'd just experienced.
"You've disappointed me Severus," Voldemort said quietly. His voice and demeanor seemingly in perfect control once more. "But considering your timely warning to me, I am inclined to believe you."
"Please," Severus rasped hoarsely from his place on the floor, "allow me to prove myself your faithful servant."
"Very well," Voldemort nodded.
Complying with the unspoken demand, Severus pulled himself back to his knees and summoned enough courage to look his tormentor in the eyes. Pulling images of his conversation with Potter and masquerading anger at Umbridge as anger towards the boy to the front of his mind, Severus attempted to convince his master of his allegiance.
Several hours later, Severus managed to apparate back to the wrought iron gates of the castle. The Dark Lord had not been gentle with his search of Severus's mind, leaving the Potions Master with a severe headache on top of his other substantial injuries. At some point during the interrogation a few of his ribs had cracked under strain, causing his breaths to come in short gasps. That added to the long gashes and aches left by Voldemort's ministrations, left him barely able to hobble up to the great double doors.
To his immense surprise, Dumbledore met him as soon as he set foot into the Entrance Hall.
"Severus," the older man intoned gently as he moved quickly to the wounded man's side. "I take it Voldemort has forgiven you."
"Something like that," Severus muttered as darkness began encroaching his vision. "I need…" his voice trailed off as Dumbledore slipped an arm around his waist and took as much of Severus's weight as he could.
"Let's get you to Madam Pomfrey."
Leaning heavily on the Headmaster, Severus allowed himself to be dragged to the Hospital Wing with little argument. Poppy directed them to her office away from the sleeping students and comatose Umbridge. Under the matrons fussing, Severus began drifting into something close to peace. Hissing when she touched a tender spot and shaking or nodding his head at her questions where the only movements he made without her express direction or instruction.
Dumbledore remained by his side throughout the evening, speaking with Poppy in hushed tones and helping when asked. When the nurse offered him a bed in the infirmary, Severus decided he'd had enough. Thanking her for Poppy care, he shuffled from the Hospital Wing with the Headmaster still at his side.
"Thank you Albus," he said words slurring, "I can make it to my rooms from here."
A sad smile pulled at Dumbledore's mouth. "I know you can my boy. Thank you for all you've done for us. I know it isn't an easy task that I've left you with."
"It's one I've chosen," Severus replied simply. But it was the truth. He had sins to atone for and this was the only path which might allow him to do so.
"You're a brave man, Severus and one I'm glad to have by my side."
Severus snorted. "Don't say that around Minerva, she's already had me in Gryffindor robes once this year. And I refuse to repeat the scenario anytime soon."
That brought an actual chuckle from the tired man. "Minerva gets herself stunned by four aurors while defending a colleague and you garner the ire of Voldemort himself. What am I to do with such troublesome trusted advisors?"
"You could always sack us and allow Umbridge to stay," Severus quipped.
The usual twinkly returned to Dumbledore's eyes at that. "I think I'll keep the two of you, if that's acceptable."
"It's amenable to me."
Dumbledore placed a gentle hand on his shoulder before turning away. "Sleep well Severus. And know that you have both my gratitude and my admiration for your actions."
With that, the Headmaster turned away leaving his Potions Master to make his way to his quarters alone.
Though she still felt as if she'd been run over by a herd of hippogriffs, Minerva was happy to be back on her feet and at Hogwarts. She'd missed the castle and its inhabitants during her brief absence. Reluctant though she was to admit it, she'd even missed the constant need to watch over those students prone to destructive tendencies.
Seeing her favorite drinking partner standing just inside the front doors, Minerva hobbled over to him. Severus – as per usual – was berating Potter and attempting to take points from the poor boy. As if the child hadn't been through enough these past few days.
"…no longer any points left in the Gryffindor hourglass to take away," Severus sneered. "In that case, Potter, we will simply have to –"
Minerva interjected before the foolish young professor could act on his worst habits. "Add some more?"
"Professor McGonagall," Severus said striding towards her. Warmth that hadn't been noticeable in his expression while speaking with Potter spread across his face. "Out of St. Mungo's, I see!"
The Potions Master seemed rather pleased by that statement.
"Yes, Professor Snape," she answered, shrugging off her traveling coat and deciding to have the two large Slytherin boys carry her things up to her office. Beckoning them over and thrusting her effects into their arms, Minerva turned her attention back to Severus and the two boys.
"Right then," said Minerva, looking up at the hour glasses on the wall, "well, I think Potter and his friends ought to have fifty points apiece for alerting the world to the return of You-Know-Who! What say you, Professor Snape?"
"What?" snapped Severus all his previous warmth dissipating in a second. Watching him stutter was certainly worth the effort after all the times he'd provoked her in front of Umbridge this year. "Oh – well – I suppose…"
After awarding points to each of the students who'd braved the Ministry and docking Severus's points, Minerva dismissed Potter and Malfoy.
"You've been waiting all year to do something like that haven't you?" Severus huffed as he gently offered his arm to her.
Accepting his offer graciously, Minerva shot him a sly wink. "I still haven't forgiven you for that fire whiskey comment you made to Umbridge earlier this year."
"So, now we're even?"
"We're closer to even."
"I did sneak you a bottle of whiskey into St. Mungo's if you'll recall."
"Yes, and it got confiscated once my mediwizard discovered how inebriated I was after your visit."
The twitching of the corners of his mouth let Minerva know that his anger held no real bite. "It's not my fault you choose to keep such poor company," he answered evenly.
"You're right," Minerva responded. "That blame lies entirely at my feet."
The two walked on in comfortable silence for a few floors. Though she would never admit it to Severus, Minerva was thankful to have him helping her up the numerous stairs to her office. She would certainly have made it on her own, but it was nice to have someone to lean on that she could trust.
Severus's voice pulled her from her thoughts. "Now that you and the Headmaster have returned, I do hope things will return to some semblance of normalcy."
"Normalcy at Hogwarts?" Minerva snorted. "Who ever heard such a thing."
"Well at least we no longer have to deal with that Ministry hag."
Bitterness coated his words, leaving Minerva with the distinct impression none of the staff would be over Umbridge anytime soon. She knew that Severus had gone into the Forbidden Forest that night after alerting the Order. Yet it had been Albus who rescued Dolores Umbridge. Which meant that his search hadn't been fruitful or that he'd neglected to help her. Neither of which, Minerva felt compelled to berate him for.
"Yes, and good riddance," she replied simply.
Upon reaching her office, Minerva insisted that he stay for a while. She and Severus had a good deal of catching up to do. The Dark Lord had been revealed to the public, Sirius Black was dead, and the Ministry had fallen in the eyes of the public. Who knew what the next year might bring, but for now, Minerva and Severus had an old habit to indulge in that had been ignored for far too long.
A/N: Like I said earlier, these two chapters got out of hand in a hurry. Thank you guys for reading and – if you feel the desire to make my day – please let me know what you think in the comments/reviews. I'm not certain when I'll have the next chapter up, but I will begin working on it this week. I have to say that as I near the end of this little fic, I get more and more distressed because year seven is going to be soooooooo emotional. But as long as we're crying together right….? In any event thanks for reading and, as always, I'll see you guys in the next chapter!
