Chapter 10 – Testing at Gringotts
A/N: The flaming Hall test – is a homage at Darren Shan's "flaming hall", which Darren Shan needs to pass as part of his 5 trials at "Vampire Mountain" - only this version is quite different from the original. The fire that will be lead into the room, via pipes are not only normal fire, but also dragon's fire on top. This made the trial much more dangerous, as the participant isn't allowed any sort of protection and he can only wear knee-long trousers. Should he pass 30 minutes in that flaming Hall, without getting injured or killed, than the test is successfully passed. No Enforcer is allowed to partake in this test, as long as he isn't at least 15 years old. The maximum length to be in the flaming Hall is 60 minutes.
The system of pipes allows the fire to erupt in random intervals, without any real warning. You have to be on high alert to succeed in this test. Inattention can be deadly.
Severus and his adoptive father Erebos were still at Gringotts. The Potions Master had already agreed to any sort of tests, which the Goblins would deem necessary, so that he can officially claim his Prince Lordship.
But at first he had to show them the clear proof, that he was no Death Eater. Silently freed Severus his left arm from the fake cuff, which showed the Dark Mark clearly. It was no easy decision for him, but needs must be met at times.
The Goblins looked dumbfounded, as Severus removed the cuff from his arm, put it on the table and showed them his unmarked arm. He even let them throw different diagnosis spells at his arm, until the Goblins were satisfied with the results.
"As you can see, I'm not a true Death Eater, but one of a few hidden spies for the DMLE in the ranks of the Death Eaters. Originally we had been four, alas two of us hadn't survived the last war. Unfortunately Riddle had set his sight on me, he had made plans to claim me, even against my will. Because of my family, I'm in a dangerous situation, Riddle doesn't accept defiance, and he had most of the times a smart head on his shoulders.", explained Severus calmly.
"Why would it put you in a dangerous situation my Lord Prince?", asked Griphook. He watched how Severus shared a wary look with Erebos, before he asked for an Oath of Silence, to ensure that nobody would be able to snatch this secret from their minds.
After granting the oath, Severus breathed in and out a few times, before informing them, that he is a male bearer, who hadn't been claimed yet. This amazed and scared the Goblins at the same time. They all knew, what had already happened in the past to unlucky male bearers. And it explains Severus' secrecy as well as his reluctance to share anything with other magical beings.
"Unfortunately Riddle has somehow learned about it, and as he went after the Potters used it, to chain me to his bed. He was going to claim me, after removing the threat of the prophecy. Lucius and Kingsley Shacklebolt had fruitlessly tried to warn James & Lily, but their trust in Dumbledore was too great and they paid with their lives for it. Riddle possessed the DADA-teacher during the last school year and tried at least on one occasion to kill Harry Potter. I could prevent it partially, but Riddle recognise my magic and left a warning in my office.", confessed Severus tiredly.
"Sadly, neither my son, nor I can say what the fiend will plan next, except that he will try almost anything to get Severus back into his clutches. He is obsessed with claiming my youngest son and who knows which forbidden magick he already has learned on his travels.", commented Erebos.
"Why aren't you claimed yet?", inquired Griphook warily. It was unusual for a Male Bearer not being claimed after he turned 25 years old. And it increased the danger that anyone could discover this secret.
"Quite simple, my fiancé and I wanted to wait for the consummation of our bond, until our wedding night. It would help us to evoke high magic, and it wasn't any hardship at all, since we both aren't used to let our hormones control our minds. Alas a few weeks before we would have spoken our bonding vows, we had been attacked in London, West End. Since that day my Italian fiancé is in a medical coma. Thomaso is a squib, but it doesn't matter for me, as we could easily live in both worlds. We have almost done anything else, except having sex, as we have been both raised very traditionally. I had even planned to take a closer look into the reasons for Squibs being born in the Magical world. Maybe even look for a possible solution, so that they would be able to freely access their magic. Thomaso's magic had somehow being blocked, the channels are there, but the flow of magic isn't able to run freely through his body. He was able to help me brewing potions and in cases of emergency even my wand reacted on his distress. ", answered Severus.
Talking about the optimal time for testing Severus, they agreed to test him on the next day, after he gotten a good night rest, as he would need all his wits for the successful passing of the different tests. The Goblins had already prepared guest quarters for the two men and escorted them directly to them, after wishing them a good stay in Gringotts walls. Severus had affixed the cuff once more on his left arm, he couldn't allow himself to left it back, without fearing repercussions from his former Master.
The Goblin King had waited silently until his guests had been escorted to their rooms, before ordering a second meeting with the different Department Heads of Gringotts in 20 minutes. It had been decades since another male bearer had spend the night within their protection. A male bearer who isn't known to the British Ministry of Magic. The trust he had shown them, as he shared this secret with them, humbled and praised them at the same time.
Nevertheless he waited patiently, until the other Goblins had taken their seats and refreshments and drinks had been served. A quick glance to Griphook showed that the necessary wards had been cast. Occluding for a few moments he looked seriously at his subordinates, before he began to speak:
"Gringotts had been honoured, that once more a Male Bearer was willing to spend the night within our sacred walls. The designated Lord Prince – Severus Prince-Snape, the last of his line and the adoptive son of Erebos Ores saw it fit to gifted us with his trust. He hasn't been claimed, yet because of tragic events in his past. They wanted to wait until the wedding night to consummate their bond and to fulfil the claiming ceremony, but this was tragically thwarted by unknown enemies, who had attacked the young couple. Since that day his fiancé had been in a healing coma, without knowledge, whether a recovery would ever be possible."
"An unclaimed male bearer! The Ministry would sell him to the highest bidder or use him for their nefarious means.", growled Sharptooth one of the Goblin elders. He had successfully hidden the last male bearer who had been born on British soil and smuggled him abroad.
"Unfortunately it is not only the Ministry, who could stir up trouble. The Dark Lord Voldemort had discovered this secret and would try anything to get the designated Lord Prince back into his arms. The young Head of Slytherin House and renowned Potions Master of Hogwarts had worked as a spy for the DMLE to destroy the Death Eaters. Now it seems to be the case as if You-know-who has found a way to return from his grave and he had saw it fit to deliver a warning to the Potions Master. He won't give up, therefore what should we do, gentlemen?", asked the Goblin King.
Griphook looked up from his notes and suggested to take a closer look in the royal vaults, maybe it would have been possible to find protective amulets, which could aid the designated Lord Prince.
"Is it possible that his fiancé will awake from his coma?", inquired Sharptooth.
"I can't say, but even when this should be possible, we would need to test that he would be free from any malevolent influence.", commented Griphook.
"Indeed, we can't risk that anything bad could happen to Lord Prince. And he shouldn't go alone to the Hospital as long as we do not know where the Dark Lord can be.", agreed another goblin.
"And which test would be suitable for the future Lord Prince?", asked Sharptooth.
The King looked at them, before he made his decision. A vicious smile was clearly visible on his face and even in his voice, as he replied:
"Gentlemen, there is only one suitable test for someone with his ancestry and with his strong bonds to the Enforcers. He will face the "flaming Hall test" - our special version, where the fire is a mixture of dragon's fire and normal fire. 30 minutes should be more than enough time to see, if the Professor deserves the title Lord Prince. Let him rest and inform him about the rules and the procedure during his breakfast."
"As you wish, your Majesty.", agreed the other goblins.
Soon afterwards the meeting ended and the goblins returned to their own duties. The flaming Hall test hadn't been used for years in Magical Britain. Not many ancient and noble houses wanted to risk their heirs in such archaic tests, when there were other more safer methods to choose a worthy heir.
Erebos, who had guarded his adopted son looked up, as the floo of their quest quarters flared up and his daughter Nemesis stepped through. She bowed deeply to her father and looked worriedly in Severus' direction before taking the seat to her father's right hand.
"What has happened, Nemesis? You came only rarely to the British Isles in person?", inquired Erebos warily.
"I have bad news, Father. One of Minos' descendants – he calls himself Asterion, probably Minotaur blood, too – had set his eyes on Severus. He had plans to abduct Severus so that he could claim him via the old ways, Sire.", replied Nemesis who balled her hands to fists.
"What? The audacity! Nobody has the right to claim my son, except when he himself has chosen his partner.", exclaimed Erebos as he jumped up from his chair.
"That's not all, father. Somebody had leaked out information regarding Severus' status. They've planned to hunt him - male bearers are rarer nowadays as in the golden age in Greece. They believe whoever will capture him and claims his virginity his destined to rule the world.", reported Nemesis seriously.
A dark growl emitted Erebos' throat and out of the shadows came a mixed pack of hellhounds, Greek, English and Welsh dogs which laid down at Severus' bed to guard the young prince.
"Who do those cretins think that they are? It seems that they have already forgotten our lessons. Well, daughter, it seems that we will remember those mortals, who we are. In the morrow you will bring a message to your brothers that I have called the war council once more. If they want to have the world soaked in blood, then we will grant this wish. But none of them is even worthy to win Severus as a life partner.", growled Erebos who had paced around the room, before he carded his hands through Severus' silky hair so that he would calm himself down.
"Call Phobetor and Thanatos for me. You three will go on a little hunt for me, to find this Asterion and eliminate him. Ensure that he won't get his clutches into your brother and don't tell him about this development. He will undergo the Goblin trials to prove his worthiness for the Prince Lordship. I do not want him distracted, not in times like these, Nemesis", ordered Erebos.
"It will be done, father. Any limitations for our hunting spree?", asked Nemesis jokingly.
"Only one, do not get caught. I would be most displeased should an amateur catch anyone of you. And tell Thanatos that he should reclaim his hallows. No human should ever wield such power.", answered Erebos as he embraced her in his strong arms.
At the same time a closed Wizengamot session had been set into motion, one of Dumbledore's allies once upon a time had discovered the medical file of Severus, hidden deep within the Ministry and gulped heavily, after reading Male Bearer—natural submissive— virgin —high flight risk—this had to be solved now. The Ministry of Magic could always need money —and the seller of Lord Prince would be rewarded with an absolute contract, so that nobody could rescue the young Potions Master from his future destiny.
Fudge annoyed at having to come back at this late hour glared at the man, who had called this small group – only 15 of the most corrupt of the Wizengamot for a secret session. Dolores Umbridge was there, too – she should protocol the session.
"Minister Fudge, honourable members of the Wizengamot. We had always wondered, why Dumbledore was so adamant to keep the young Potions Master and designated Lord Prince – Severus Snape-Prince at Hogwarts. I have now found by accident the evidence and have decided to share it with you all. We need to be prepared, it is important for the future of Magical Britain.", began the whistleblower.
"Stop speaking in riddles! Why do you have called us?"screamed Fudge.
"As you wish Minister. It seems that once more Dumbledore wanted to meddle with us and with our future. The young Prince heir and designated Lord Prince – Severus Snape-Prince is not only a natural submissive and a male bearer, but also still unclaimed, do I need to say more?"
"Had this been confirmed?", inquired Doge surprised.
"Indeed. We have at least 3 options and we need to hurry, before someone else figure it out and remove the young Lord from our influence. His adoptive father, Erebos Ores, held no love for Magical Britain and wouldn't hesitate to relocate young Severus, should he suspect any of us, Gentlemen.", smirked the whistleblower.
"Didn't he have any contact with Death Eaters?", asked Fudge.
"Rumours, nothing else, Minister. As far as we can confirm, Lord Slytherin had had shown a personal interest in the young man and demanded his visits on a regular basis. The one time, where our Aurors had arrested him, he hadn't had any mark on his arm. Severus Snape-Prince had close familial ties to the Malfoy family, he is the godfather of young Draconis Lucius Malfoy and had spend many holidays with them in Wiltshire or on one of the other Malfoy estates around the world.", replied the whistleblower.
"And the only reason he still lives in Britain is due to the fact that his fiancé lies in a private Hospital in London. The muggle healers couldn't say if he ever would wake up again, but as long as nothing changed, he had had vowed to stay."
"A fiancé? Do you know more?", inquired Fudge breathlessly. This was bad news, a fiancé who could still recover would ruin their plans. So they would need to ensure that the young man will be dealt with quickly, without anyone tipping off Severus Snape-Prince.
"Why hadn't this fiancé claimed him?", asked Doge anxiously.
The whistleblower rolled his eyes and answered, that this was due to the marriage contract between both houses and the wish to perform high magic during their wedding night. He was an Italian Pureblood, who was even more old-fashioned as the British ones. He omitted that Thomaso had been thought to be a squib, but why should he tell them anything.
"Gentlemen, our plan should be obvious, we have to prevent at any cost that Lord Prince will leave the country. We need him under our absolute control – Dolores, you will visit our vaults in the bowels of the Ministry and look for cuffs and collars, which would ensure that he would follow our instructions. You need to look for those, who had been specifically for male bearers. Who is willing to provide an estate, where we can place our young Potions Master into protective custody? It has to be an estate, which is well hidden and can only be accessed by a small minority. You have a week to made suggestions, how we get this situation under control. Find the hospital, where his fiancé is located. And terminate him.", ordered Fudge excitedly. "Any marriage contracts for Lord Prince's hand had to be proven extremely carefully. We can't risk to lose our prize without having closed all loopholes." The meeting ended shortly afterwards, and only one thought run through their minds – who will get this prize?
Severus slept peacefully, dreaming about his financé and one of their first meeting, where he had for the first time felt free. Not even the knowledge that he have to return home, could destroy his mood. It had been the first time in seven years, that Voldemort had graciously granted him a reprieve. The journey to Italy and the knowledge that his adoptive father was already lurking in the shadows, should a lucky opportunity arise had kept Severus' spirit soaring high.
Suddenly his dreams changed and Severus began to move into his sleep as he began to remember Voldemort's reaction to his adoption.
Voldemort had almost placed a geas and a charm on him, as he was 14 years old to ensure that Severus wouldn't be able to stray and to stay pure, until Voldemort would claim him officially and take him to his bed. He had even had the audacity to threaten Lily's well-being if Severus wouldn't comply to his wishes and those, whom Severus cared about.
He had only abstained from going through with it, as Severus pointed out, that at the start of their OWLs-year all students have to undergo a very thoroughly physical exam supervised by healers from St. Mungo's hospital. Any foreign magic, that would be found by such a scan, and a geas would be found within seconds, could exclude said students from taking his OWLs.
Of course, Severus had been willing in his fear to promise this tyrant anything, if this would ensure the safety of his loved ones. Knowing that as long as Voldemort wouldn't swear on his blood, magic and life, they were still in danger.
At that moment he hadn't feared for his life, but for those few, who had a secured place in his heart. He wasn't special, hopefully Voldemort would focus his attention on other goals and forget that he wanted to mark Severus. Of course he hadn't been so lucky, the DMLE needed spies to win against the Death Eaters and their arguments had been very convincing, which had led to their quartet taking the Dark Mark, even if it had been placed on a cuff (without Voldemort any wiser) instead of the bare arm.
Severus had shivered as he remembered the hungry look in Voldemort's eyes, it had confirmed his worst fears, now he would never let him go. Self-preservation one of the most important traits of a true Slytherin helped Severus to evade certain questions, even when he had been forced to made certain concessions to keep his freedom and to avoid the placement of a geas.
Sleeping in his Lord's bed, only allowed a pair of pyjama bottoms had been one of them and it had been limited to once a week. Even then Severus flinched, just remembering how Voldemort managed to single him out with the help of some excuses, so that he had been forced to stay longer and longer each day.
Flashback – Winter 1979
Voldemort had been furious to learn about Severus' adoption by Erebos Ores. He had chained him to a wall and used a whip on his naked back, until Severus moaned in pain and almost lost his consciousness, before stopping the punishment. But it wasn't over yet, Voldemort had turned his prisoner, and used his wand to brand Voldemort's own insignia TMS on Severus' chest. It had hurt like hell.
Why not TMR? Simple Voldemort despised his muggle heritage, therefore he had secretly changed his name to Tom Marvolo Slytherin, after getting the Slytherin Lordship, but kept this a secret for his elite. Should he ever bond with his young lover, then he would demand that he either take his name Slytherin or hyphenated their name to Slytherin-Prince. Never again would he have a muggle name.
"Never again will you defy me, my little serpent or this will be only a friendly reminder of your place, Severus!", growled Voldemort furiously. He forced a heated kiss on his prisoner to prove his dominance over Severus again. "I'm the only one you will ever need, your protector and Master. Nobody will love you more as I do, Severus! Never forget it!"
Removing the chains, he cradled Severus in his arms and laid him on his bed, a hiss was the only visible sign of pain, which Severus allowed himself. A quick spell removed their clothes and soon Severus felt a cool breeze on his whip marks, it helped with the pain, before the dark lord grabbed him and drew him closer.
"You're mine, Severus. The next time you try to keep a secret from me, I will kill the mudblood and her family. This is your only warning, my little serpent.", whispered Voldemort in his ear. "Muggles and mudbloods are so easy to kill, my dear boy. And I would made you watch every second of agony, should you displease me again, Severus. Unable to help her, and never be able to forget it."
Severus didn't say a word, it would have been useless, but Voldemort hadn't been finished – he enjoys to taunt his prisoner at times with news, that would hurt him much more, as a mere Cruciatus.
"Your little mudblood bitch, isn't a loyal friend, Severus. She was never loyal to you, and do you know what she had done now, my little serpent? She had married the blood traitor James Potter – the boy who had made your life at Hogwarts a living hell with his group of thugs. And she has even gone farther and become a member in Dumbledore's vexing order. It will probably be only a few months, until she bore a whelp for the damned bloodline of her blood traitor husband. My spies are very eager to tell me anything about those brainless idiots.", smirked Voldemort.
His hands started to play automatically with Severus' body as he spoke again:
"Even my most loyal men admit, that she isn't bad looking for a mudblood and wants to play with her, should we catch her."
"No, p-please ignore her. Lily isn't a danger for you or your plans. What do you want, tell me, and I'll do it for you, Marvolo?", asked Severus terrified. "My freedom and my life for hers. I won't try to run or to evade you any longer. I tell my father, that I want you as my partner, if you ignore her, he wants me to be happy, but he won't interfere, should he believe me."
"Smart boy – she isn't worth your sacrifice. But why should I stop you, if you're so eager to please me. I have a small mission for you – you will go to Hogwarts and apply for the DADA-position and you will follow the old coot disillusioned to figure out his strategy for the current conflict. I want a report on your return. You have until February 1980 to bring me results – don't disappoint me and your pet mudblood will stay safe. Disappoint me and she will become the playtoy for your brethren – Dolohov likes the livid ones. He will be going after the blood traitor family next – the Weasleys. He deserves to be rewarded, and should he be able to caught them, I will bind Molly Weasley née Prewitt to him as his future breeding slave.", answered Voldemort.
"And as we have spoken about pleasing – don't be so shy, Severus. It has been months, since I felt your mouth around my cock.", smirked the Dark Lord as he dragged the Potions Prodigy between his legs.
"When do you have your mastery exam, Severus?", asked Voldemort as Severus pleasured him orally and had swallowed Voldemort's seed. Never showing how much he hated this arrangement, but forced do obey the Dark Wizard since he had been 14 years old. He hadn't believed it, as Voldemort had proudly presented him an old marriage contract between the House of Prince and the House of Slytherin — already signed and dated on the 9th January 1955 — and he will never forget how much Voldemort had laughed as he told him from the old law, that would him allow to demand the firstborn of the unfaithful bride for his personal gain.
"On the 10th January 1980, Master.", replied Severus tiredly.
"I will send two of my most loyal with you to the Ministry. I demand a message from you, at the end of the exam. You will come straight home, Severus. We will celebrate in private." informed him Voldemort coldly, as he cleaned his young lover and dragged him once more into his strong arms.
Severus nodded silently, it was better to agree, as to risk another punishment, when his wounds are still fresh. Voldemort noxed the light and soon both slept more or less peacefully.
"It's a shame that neither Abraxas nor Lucius had known that I was once thought worthy enough to marry Eileen. How is your dear Mummy by the way, Severus. Is she still among the living? Or has the muggle brute which she had married to spite me, killed her after all those years?", asked Voldemort during a lonesome breakfast on the next morning, it had been a quiet affair only the two of them in the little private Family Dining Room at Slytherin Manor.
"She had died 1975 at pneumonia, Marvolo. She had been too weak to survive the medical treatment and her magic had already began to fail years ago, since my Da didn't want her to use magic at home.", replied Severus monotonously.
"Such a pity, I'm sure if I would be able to find you two sooner, Eileen would still be alive – and we would be a happy family, my beloved Severus.", smirked Voldemort. "You would have grown up like a little prince and would have only gotten the best tutors. Even if you wouldn't be allowed to attend Hogwarts, as it would have been much too dangerous for my designated consort."
Severus had shivered inwardly, as he imagined how Voldemort would have tried to groom him into his perfect little submissive, while ensuring that Eileen wouldn't be able to leave him or even object any malicious influence on her only child.
"Of course, she would have been obligated to bear at least one child for me, as the marriage contract insisted on having a potential heir for each of our Houses. You could have a baby brother or sister and as playmates the children of my followers, Severus.", mused Voldemort, he always enjoyed it to rile up his little serpent.
He couldn't wait to finally claim him, but he felt that Severus' wasn't ready and he had learned to be patient. Soon Severus would be offering him his virginity for the meagre promise of never again laying a hand on Lily Evans, and on any of her future children. Yes, he couldn't lose, he could practically taste his triumph, and how sweet it would be to be bonded to his young lover.
"May I go to my rooms, Marvolo? I have to study for my exams, so that I will pass it with flying colours.", asked Severus politely. He needed urgently to send his patronus to Kingsley so that both families could go into hiding. Luckily his rooms led to a small garden, and it wasn't unusual for Severus to take a little stroll in the cold night air.
"You may. But you will dine with me tonight, During the evening we will have a meeting with my loyal Death Eaters, and I expect you in full regalia, Severus.", growled Voldemort. Severus didn't even known that the marriage contract wasn't originally thought for Voldemort and Eileen, but for a member of the Black family, as he had owed a life debt to Voldemort, the unlucky Marius Black had been forced by the magic, which had also made him a squib to sign his rights as a designated spouse for Eileen Prince over to the Dark Lord.
Would she have stayed with Marius all her children would have been purebloods and have even a chance to inherit the Black Lordship after Lord Arcturus' death. And the icing of the cake – nobody know, that his loyal followers at Hogwarts had early started to lace Eileen's drinks with potions that would lead to a paranoia against all member of the Black Family and an unexplained lusting for the Dark Lord.
It was a pity that they somehow overdosed the stupid chick, which was the reason for running to the Muggle World and had woven a charm, that would hide her family forever from him and his followers. Even as she still had lusted after him, her brain was too damaged to seek him out.
A true tragedy, because in her addled mind, Eileen would have done anything for her new Master. Even handing over her firstborn, should he demand it. But he has him now in his clutches, and he wouldn't let him escape again.
Those ignorant fools didn't even know how easy a squib can be created – poisoning the child in the womb of the mother is just one way to achieve it. Soon he will be powerful enough to capture the last blood traitors, who still living in Britain. Oh, he will not kill them, but turn them into mindless breeding slaves. After all Molly Weasley is claimed to be extremely fertile, she alone would be enough to bear new sons for his army. Dolohov had always a weakness for redheads and he had killed her brothers to get to Molly, a shame that it hadn't been enough. Raised by their fathers under his banner, yes – and she would be so willing to spread her legs for her new Masters, while unlucky Arthur became the sex toy of the few female Death Eater in his ranks, the Weasleys and Prewitts had always been fertile, why not used it for their own gain. A few dark potions and compulsions and they would do anything he wanted them to do, the perfect mindless little slaves. While their children would be raised under his ideology, and bolster his ranks with strong wizards and witches, who would be willing to die for him.
"I will be there, Sir.", murmured Severus as he left the room as quick as possible. He needed a few hours for himself, or he would break apart. If only Lucius could be here, together they would find a solution to keep the Dark Lord away from him. It was only a matter of time, until he would force him into his bed, and no, he did not even dare to think about what would happen to him, should Voldemort ever learn his biggest secret.
He didn't know that a gutter rat had already discovered his secret, while snooping in Lily's diary from her Hogwarts' days. She had forgotten to secure them with blood magic and this would be not only her downfall, but also of her former best friend. Pettigrew hadn't believed his eyes as he read the entry of May 1975, where Lily confided to her diary that her best friend and heart-brother was a male bearer. Only a small group would know it, and had sworn to take this secret to their graves. She had even written how disgusting she had found her encounter with the Dark Wizard, who called himself Voldemort and his plans for her best friend.
"Yes, this was a goldmine – he could either use this to get their obedience; hm, maybe Lily would be willing to suck him off? Or he could threaten Snivellus with sharing this secret with the Dark Lord, if he wouldn't be willing to follow his instructions...", smirked the rat.
He had often indulge at school in rape fantasies, either featuring a poor mudblood or at times even Snivellus himself. Maybe he could get his dreams fulfilled, as Snivellus wouldn't dare to reject him. Not with this secret at his disposal.
End of Flashback
Severus woke up, his heart hammering in his chest, as his father hurried to his side, giving him a goblet filled with water, which he gulped down hastily.
"What's the matter, Severus?", inquired Erebos worriedly.
"Bad dreams, Sir. About the past, I have remembered how the dark lord treated me, as he had learned about my adoption Sir and before, as he had cornered me in the Malfoy Library on Yule 1974 – it was horrible.", answered Severus.
"Why? What was his intention, son?", asked Erebos, sitting on the bed and comforting Severus without hesitation.
"He had shown me a marriage contract between Eileen Prince and Lord Slytherin, but something about it was strange. According to my grandfather's will my mother had been obsessed with the Dark Lord, so why would she run from him, instead of accepting the marriage, Father?", said Severus anxiously.
"You're right, this doesn't made any sense. Magic allows to transfer any rights, be it marriage or business or anything else, as a way to get free from a life debt. It could be possible that Lord Prince had originally chosen another family for this marriage, and Tom had found a way to intervene without your grandfather any wiser.", mused Erebos.
"Lucius had told me about this ancient law, that allows recompensation in form of the firstborn child, should a signed marriage contract be broken. The betrayed family had free hand, after getting their hands on said child. The only obstacle is to find the child before its 20th birthday. But he did find me and cornered me, as I was 14 years old. He used Lily as leverage to made me agree to his conditions. The dark lord had even wanted to place a geas on me, should I not comply with his wishes. It was a nightmare, Sir. He had threatened to remove me from Hogwarts and made me stay at his homes with chosen tutors. I would have been imprisoned in a gilded cage and on my 17th birthday he would have taken my virginity, if I was ready for it or not.", explained Severus agitated.
"It didn't happen, son. And I do not plan to let him ever harm you again. Not as long as I can stop him cold. Don't think about him any longer, you have to stay focused on your own test, nothing else matters.", told him Erebos as he hugged him strongly.
"Yes, Father. I'll try my best. Would it be possible that we can visit Thomaso afterwards? I have missed him, and who knows, maybe he is able to wake up, I would like to see him smile again. It isn't fair, Sir. We would have married only 2 days later, on 7th April 1985, if those thugs hadn't attacked us, and instead of running, did he try to defend me. It was Thomaso's wish to marry during the good week Sir. And we did find a Ministry official who would have married us on Good Friday 1985 – it would have been nice to share our wedding bliss with friends and family. They made me watch, as they'd beaten him almost to death, after forcing a drug down my throat, which made me unable to help him. And they said, that someone had ordered them to bring me to their boss. She would already have a buyer for me, but if I tried to be difficult, they had no problems in having a bit of fun with me first. Or to rape Thomaso, if I do not do what they say, they'll be enjoying those spoils.", began Severus shyly.
He had never before told anyone that the attack had been aimed for him, not his fiancé, who hadn't been willing to let them take his lover. Learning that Thomaso had been slipped into a coma, unknown if he will ever awaken, had broken Severus. Without his father, he would have probably never stopped trying to kill himself. In fact, he had almost tried it twice, before snapping out of his depression. He didn't wish to tell this to another living soul. Severus had told it Thomaso during one of his weakest hours, after placing a strong silencing charm around them. He had hold the cold hand of his fiancé and told him everything.
Strangely he had felt lighter afterwards, still sad, but not depressed any longer. He hadn't even hesitate to send Scotland Yard and private investigators on those thugs, but without any success.
Flashback— 5th April 1984
On the 5th April 1984 Severus had spend a short holiday during the Easter with his fiancé Thomaso. As they had agreed shortly after becoming serious committed, both would let the other free hand on their birthday. Thomaso was a movie enthusiast and wanted to see the new movie: Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes – a new adaption of the Tarzan series.
Severus wasn't a big fan of muggle movies, but once or twice a year he could indulge his fiancé. Surprisingly the movie had been interesting for both of them. Luckily for the happy couple – it had been dark enough in the movie theatre so that they could cuddle a bit closer, without fear of getting caught.
In two days their lives would change – not only would their wedding be on the Good Friday 1984, but it would be the first time, when they consume their bond. Thomaso may be a squib, but he had always known that Severus loved him more than life itself. It hadn't been easy, but the young Italian had found a way in the well-guarded heart of his fiancé. Soon he would get his biggest wish fulfilled and bond with Severus.
They had even agreed on their future home – Thomaso had inherited an old villa rustica in the Italian Province – and they had even had the necessary money to buy a cottage on one of the smaller Scottish Islands. Their honeymoon would be spend in Scotland, while their first winter as a married couple would be spend in Italy.
Thomaso worked as translator and professor for Roman History at a private institute in Verona. His family even as descendants from Salazar Slytherin had a much better relationship to any offspring magical or not. As a young child he had gotten Dragon Pox and the illness had been so aggressive that it burned out his magical core.
But instead of throwing him out on the streets, Thomaso's family treated him not differently to any of his siblings. He was still the heir of the family, even as they decided on a public school in Verona, which allows him to live at home during the weekends.
They accepted Severus quite easily as a part of the family and with the help of Thomaso's cousins and a few flasks polyjuice it was quite easy to distract the guards, on which Voldemort had insisted, before he even allowed Severus the participation at the Potions Conference 1980 in Verona. It had been the first time, since he had gained his Mastery – as the youngest Potions Master in Europe. To be honest Severus couldn't believe how the Potions guild treated him – he had never had before so much positive approval from a knowledgable audience.
He had even got some interesting job offers, but had been forced to deny them, as he know the Dark Lord wouldn't allow him to stay abroad for more than 3 days. Neither would Dumbledore allow him to slip through his clutches. The short interrogation of the Aurors, where Dumbledore had been present in the other room, wasn't easy to forget – even as they hadn't found a Dark Mark on him – the group who interrogated him belongs to Dumbledore's order and they had tried to break him. They had even threaten to interrogate Narcissa – and as she was already in the 3rd trimester of her pregnancy, Severus wouldn't risk it. Bella had already lost her child because of those overzealous dunderheads. No, he wouldn't risk Narcissa's health and the health of her unborn child.
Dumbledore had told him bluntly, either he would sign a job contract for him, with very harsh conditions, where he would be almost under Dumbledore's thumb 24/7 – or they would break his fingers and this could be the end of his career. They wouldn't stop to harass the Malfoys until he agreed to Dumbledore's conditions. As Sluggy wanted to retire, Dumbledore needed another Potions Master and he still believed that he could control Severus for his personal gain. With gritted teeth did Severus sign the contract that would bind him for the next 10 years to Hogwarts.
Unfortunately Dumbledore wasn't finished yet and drew a rune on his right arm, which would force him to obey the old coot or got a magical backlash anytime he defied him. To hear that Dumbledore had used his personal elves to spike the food and drinks of the Marauders to ensure their darker urges to surface, hadn't been good news or that he had ordered that love potions keyed to James and Lily will be added to their pumpkin juice had even been worse.
"You will be under my control or your Slytherins will pay dearly for this audacity, my dear boy. Should it be necessary I could even arrange a marriage for you, without your father any wiser. Do you really think that you're able to ever escape my clutches, Severus? I will personally ensure that Slytherin will be the most hated house at Hogwarts, while my Gryffindors will be treated like kings and queens. You shouldn't have refused the Sorting Hat to send you to Gryffindor, do you really think I wouldn't know it?", laughed Dumbledore as he watched his prisoner, who looked him fearless in the eyes.
"Don't worry, Severus. We have time – and I will break you sooner or later. You will scream for me and beg me to do my bidding. Or your snakes will pay the price for your defiance.", grinned Dumbledore.
A few hours later he was allowed to go and Kingsley even managed to slip a report to Amelia about the illegal practices of the Order at the Ministry. Severus had only wanted to forget the whole ordeal, while spending some time with his family. Hopefully his father would know how to remove the rune and left a false one in its place. They would collect this as further evidence in the case against Albus Dumbledore – with some luck the other Enforcers would be able to arrest the old coot, before he could ruin more lives.
4 years later had he been quite happy with Thomaso and didn't see a problem to indulge his fiancé now and then. They wanted to evoke high magic on their wedding night, as for both sex wasn't important most of the time. Just to spend time with each other, and sometimes pleasure each other in bed and shower was enough to keep their libido under control.
Someday Severus would enjoy to have children, but this have to wait until they had been freed from the Dark Lord and Dumbledore. He wouldn't risk his children in this war and would try anything to keep his little snakes out of it. Even if that meant to grant them access to a pensieve with Death Eater meetings, raids and punishment dished out by Voldemort and at times on his orders.
The movie had been interesting at times a bit funny, and even sad, a good mixture for both of them as they walked to the subway. Be in Muggle London behave like a muggle this had been their agreement as they had agreed to become lovers. In Muggle London nobody knows them, they could be relaxed and simply enjoy the life.
Sometimes Severus dragged Thomaso to a pub for a game of pool. Both betting on the outcome – a few coins or a meal all in good fun. Even his overprotective siblings hadn't had a problem that he had chosen this Italian as his lover – "better choice as the Dark Lord", had Nemesis muttered after meeting them at Westminster Abbey.
No, life was good – although did his siblings really have to gift them an exclusive deluxe box of their favourite magical sex shop? There was no need to proclaim publicly, what they enjoyed to use.
They enjoyed to see him squirm and Thomaso had found it funny, especially as most of them had been in Slytherin colours.
"We should go wild and decided on bonding earrings," whispered Thomaso after leaving the cinema and stood for a moment in the shadows as they shared a kiss.
"What have you taken? Bonding earrings, what comes next? A tongue piercing?", joked Severus although it could easily be hidden under their hair and he wouldn't have to worry during his Potions research and experiments that he could destroy the ring by accident.
"Why not? You could shock the old fossils at your school, maybe a new look on top of it, Sev." smirked Thomaso.
"No thanks, as if you would dare to try a new look while you work at your private institute in Verona. They had a stricter dress code as most British Boarding schools.", replied Severus.
"We're allowed to wear piercings as long as they're glamoured.", commented Thomaso and grabbed Severus' hand to drag him to the Subway.
They had almost reached the station as they got ambushed. During the fight the thugs, who belonged to Lilith's organisation managed to separate them A strong build man had soon Severus into a headlock while his companion, injected the drug via a syringe into Severus' bloodstream.
This drug would weaken him, while it kept him under control, before he would succumb to the powerful drug and blacked out. A big beefy palm had been brutally pressed over Severus' mouth and forced him to look in Thomaso's direction.
"Do what we say or we beat him to death!", growled the leader into his ear. "Our boss wants you – seems he had already a buyer for a pretty boy like you. You can't win, and we have no problems to kill your friend, should you trying to be difficult. Nod, if you agree to our deal, or my men would enjoy to beat this wimp until he won't be able to lift a finger. Before we have a bit of fun with him, it is much too long since we all had a chance to rape someone, like him."
Severus nodded reluctantly, he couldn't risk Thomaso's life, but his pendant, a gift from his adoptive father, reacted on his distress and send an alert to his siblings. Thanatos and Phobetor, who had already been in Britain, because they should stand in as witnesses, appeared from the shadows and blasted the thugs away.
While Thanatos looked after the unconcious Thomaso, took Phobetor care of their adopted brother. Severus was injured, not as bad as his financé, but both would need medical help and they couldn't bring them to St. Mungo's without anyone informing Dumbledore about it.
Nemesis appeared next, she had always had a soft spot for Severus and seeing him injured, broke her. She helped her brothers to call an ambulance, which brought them to the St. Mary's hospital. As they could prove to be Severus' siblings, did the Doctor informed them about the medical results.
Thomaso had to be put in a medical coma, and nobody could say, if he would ever awaken. Severus would probably wake up within the next 48 hours, but they couldn't say anything about possible long-term damage.
"I will inform, Dad. Will you stay with him?", asked Thanatos. His siblings confirmed their wish to stay, because it would probably help their baby brother to know, that they haven't abandoned him in his time of need.
"As soon as Dad is informed, and Severus will be feeling better, we should go on a hunt. They will bitterly regret to ever lay a hand on our baby brother!", growled Phobetor.
"I agree, and we should find out, who this mysterious boss was, whom they have mentioned or the buyer, who seems to be interested in Severus.", added Nemesis.
End of Flashback
Severus came back to the present and buried his his head in his father's lap. While Erebos lovingly carded the silky black hair of his youngest son, calmed Severus down.
"Thank you, father. It was too much for the moment. I have remembered the day, as we had been ambushed by this gang of thugs. You know what had been strange. Neither the police, nor my siblings have ever been able to either find this mysterious buyer, nor the boss, they had spoken about. Sometimes during the night, I hope and pray that Thomaso would awaken from his coma and remember us, but at times, I can't believe in it any longer. I don't know what I should do, Father!", said Severus quietly.
"Hush, son. We will find a solution. And it doesn't matter, what I have to do, I will find those persons, who are responsible for this despicable attack and I will made them pay. This I do swear, Severus.", vowed Erebos as he hugged Severus.
"I do not know, why I deserve a father like you on my side, father.", murmured Severus as tears of joy were gleaming on his face. Carefully wiped Erebos them away, as he reminded Severus that it would be time for breakfast, before he had to face his test.
"You're right, Father. I will do my best to make you proud.", replied Severus. This man had given him a family, siblings, who cared for him and did back off should he wished it. Even as he had viewed Lucius as brother and Narcissa as a sister, there had still been a gap between, which he never felt with Erebos' children.
Nemesis, well you shouldn't mess with her, she was merciless in getting her revenge and had helped him improve in leap and bounds with the ancient types of weapons. At times it had felt like hell, but now Severus could appreciate it, he was fit, and knew, even should he lost his wand for a few moments, that he wasn't helpless.
The black shorts, he was allowed to wear for the test, had already been brought to their room. After his morning ablutions Severus came out of the bathroom with wet hair already clothed for the coming test, as he sat down at the little table near the fireplace. A Scottish Breakfast awaited the duo, which they enjoyed in silence.
Erebos watched his son thoughtfully, Severus had seldom spoken about his fiancé since they had been ambushed on Good Friday 1984 – but he missed him nevertheless. Severus had been looking forward of having his own family. He had wanted to be a parent and to finally be able to quit teaching, while focusing some hours of the week on his personal research, especially as Thomaso would have been willing to reduce his own workload and work more at home, instead of the University.
At 9am Griphook came to led Severus to the chamber, where he would prove his worthiness for the title. Jareth had already been seated on his favourite chair with the heads of the Goblin clans around him, all of them would supervise the test. Even Erebos would sat with the Goblins, so that he wouldn't be able to interfere.
As agreed upon, Severus had removed the cuff with the Dark Mark from his arm for the duration of his visit at Gringotts. It had been kept in the safe in their quarters and Severus would get it back, before they'll be heading out.
Without socks and shoes or even a shirt, all due to the strict rules for this test, Severus had already felt tense. He may not know what he could expect, besides the fact that the Princes were one of a handful of families, which still demands the old ways to be followed in chosen the best heir for a title. All adult Princes, who had come into their inheritance on their 17th birthday and hadn't been disowned had been ordered to undergo this test.
According to Griphook, it wouldn't take long 30 minutes maximum, where he had to avoid being grilled to a crisp. Not that this calmed Severus, but it seems to be the only way to officially claimed the Prince Lordship.
His mother, would have never accepted such and old-fashioned test, before demanding that she got the title. To be honest Severus didn't really care for his title, but his studies had shown that the ring for the Prince Lordship had some very excellent protections on it; the most important was a protection against unwanted portkeys or disapparition, and the ability to detect potions and harmful spells in food and drinks.
Griphook silently signalled Severus to stand in the middle of the wide chamber, which was only dimly lit. He waited until Severus stood at ease, before starting to speak:
"The test will be longer than 30 minutes, Master Prince-Snape. A whole set of pipes are able to reach the whole chamber. Your task will be, to stay alert and to avoid the flames, which will appear on the opening. You're not allowed to use magic, hence why you should hand your wand to me for the duration of the test, Heir Prince. It is not advisable to be trapped in a corner, as the flames tends to get hotter, because of the combination of dragon fire and normal fire. Fiendfyre is not a part of a mere Lordship test, but will be used at times to test our best defense master and fire elementals as part of their masteries. In this case, the test would be limited to 15 minutes to avoid deadly injuries. I wish you luck and Dagda's blessing, Master Prince-Snape.", Griphook bowed deeply to Severus, accepted his wand, and a second time to the hidden guests and dignitaries, who would overlook the testing.
Severus used his occlumency techniques to calmed himself and to breathed a few times deeply in and out. This was it, now he will have to prove, that he was a true Prince. 30 minutes trial by fire – yes, the Goblins had their own special brand of humour. According to Griphook, the whole chamber had hidden pipes, that would enable the fire to travel from A to B – and nobody could say where it would come out first.
Fantastic, this meant, he would need all of his senses, as he couldn't even use magic, to avoid the flames, especially as he hadn't planned to be cornered by the hot flames. At least Fiendfyre wasn't used in the test today, a small reprieve, but a reprieve nonetheless.
Not even a few seconds later erupted a fire column from the wall, which Severus avoided by dropping do the ground and rolled himself up to the left side of the chamber. The test had started and with closed eyes, Severus followed the movements of the flames, at times he had to jump, or even to drop on the heated floor to avoid a flame near his body. Sweat dropped on the ground, hissed as it hit the heated floor, which made the task even worse. As Severus had to be extremely careful, not to slip out on his own body fluids.
It was pure hell, but somehow Severus managed to escape the flames again and again without getting cornered. Time and space doesn't matter, only acting and reacting on the hissing of the flames, and the avoiding of injuries filled his mind.
Suddenly at 9.30am a loud drum solo filled the whole hall, the flames died down, while Severus kneed tiredly on the warm floor. It was over, he had really passed the time, but had he succeeded?
Jareth stood up and called down: "Greetings, Lord Prince. Once more we will have a worthy Lord on our side. Rest and relax, young Lord. You have proven yourself to our cause. Gringotts and the Goblin Nation will greet you and your clan as our allies and kinsmen."
"Thank you, your Majesty. May all your enemies fear your weapons, and you and your allies will be prosper and thrive now and forever.", replied Severus. Griphook appeared again and led the young Lord out of the chamber, after giving back Severus' wand and congratulated him on his successful test. He pressed a small box in Severus' hand, which contained his Lordship ring and wished him well for his future.
Erebos embraced his son and thanked the Goblins for their help. Without another word, did Erebos apparated them both to his estate in the Lake district, where helpful house elves prepared Severus' bed and ensured that the young Lord Prince will be resting peacefully.
The Immortal only hoped that his older children will be successfully hunting those thugs, who had almost destroyed Severus' happiness. He wasn't willing to lose his son to anyone. And should it be necessary than he would burn the world down, before he let anyone violating his beloved youngest son.
He had already lost one son to unknown enemies, he will not lose a second son to them. No matter the cost, if they want war, then they will get a war, which they will never be able to forget.