Dedication: To public education. A system a minority of the human race has been able to take advatage of.
December 25
Clement
He and Ron were walking through the fairy lit garden. Well Clement was walking. Ron was stalking clearly still in a bad mood regarding Hermione. Not to mention his annoyance with Percy. Clement could hear other people wandering about among the rosebushes.
'...don't see what there is to fuss about Karkaroff' Came a very familiar voice. Why was Severus talking to Karkaroff?
'Severus, you can't pretend this isn't happening,' came Kararoff's quiet, anxious reply. 'It's been getting clearer and clearer for months, I am becoming seriously concerned, I can't deny it –'
What was becoming darker and why was Karkaroff so concerned? And since when had he known Severus well enough to be on a first name basis? Hadn't Sirius said that Karkaroff was a Death Eater? And hadn't Severus mentioned being a true follower? Did this have something to with Voldemort? But why wouldn't Severus tell him about it? Surely this was important enough.
'Then flee. Flee I will make your excuses. I, however, am remaining at Hogwarts.'
What would give Karkaroff cause to flee? Didn't his school have powerful protection, as Hogwarts did? Why would he need excuses made and to whom?
The two came into view, Karkaroff looking worried and Severus looking angry. He was blasting the bushes apart, docking points whenever students emerged. Upon catching sight of Clement and Ron he frowned. Karkaroff looked discomposed and began winding his hand around his goatee.
'What are you two doing here?' Severus asked silkily, his eyes meeting Clement's.
It was Ron who answered, with less respect than Clemet would have liked. 'Walking, not against the law, is it?'
Clement expected Severus to at the very least dock points, but instead he turned away and made his way towards the castle. Karkaroff hurried after him, apparently not done talking.
'What was that all about?' Ron muttered as he glanced over his shoulder at the two retreating figures.
'I dunno, Severus hasn't mentioned anything in regards to Karkaroff or being worried about anything.' Clement replied in a whisper.
What was Severus keeping from him? Hadn't they agreed to trust each other? Sure people could have secrets but this sounded really important. Clement would definitely have to talk to Severus about it.
December 28
Clement
'I think I'm getting the hang of it!' Hermione stated smiling proudly. 'My emotions are getting easier to control.'
'Excellent Hermione,' Clement congratulated. 'Do you think you're almost ready to actually defend your mind?'
'I think so,' she replied hesitantly. 'Are you sure Snape won't make it too difficult? Or mock me? I'm sure I won't get it perfect my first time and who knows what he'll see.' Her hurried questions and panicked look showed Clement how worried and even scared she was.
'He didn't for me. In fact, I'm sure he still hasn't used his full strength and I've been doing well for weeks. He wants these meetings kept secret so he can't go blabbing about you to anyone. And if he does mock you in private, I'll talk to him. I know plenty of things about him that he wouldn't like being mocked about if it comes down to it. But I doubt it will, so don't worry too much.' Clement answered soothingly.
He wasn't a hundred percent sure of his answers. He had gotten to know Severus better throughout the course of the year. As his memories returned he had a better idea of who Severus had been. Of course that brought up the questions of why he had changed. It had surprised Clement that Severus had been willing to discuss his mistakes. Despite knowing more, Clement still didn't know everything about his brother, especially when it came to Clement's two best friends. He could separate how Sev acted in private and how he acted when teaching. He had been given fair reasons for the difference. The way the two personalities combined when Clement had brought Ron and Hermione had been confusing and unexpected. It frustrated Clement that Severus wouldn't relax around Ron and Hermione, nor would he trust them.
'Thanks,' muttered Hermione. 'I know I shouldn't be so worried but –'
She was cut off when Ron entered the classroom. 'I've been looking everywhere for you guys.' He said with exasperation as he pulled over a chair and looked at Hermione closely. 'What are you worried about?'
'I'm thinking of trying occlumency, most likely before term starts.' Hermione replied stiffly.
It had been like this between the two since Christmas. They were polite, but what had happened at the Yule Ball and the resulting argument hung over the two. Clement couldn't help but hope his friends would get over it soon. At least they were talking to each other, unlike last year. Having lost Ron's friendship for a time resulted in Clement being eager for the three to remain close.
'Are you sure about this?' Ron questioned anxiously. 'I know that Harr –'
'Clement,' interjected Clement softly. He realized that Ron would make few attempts to correct himself.
'Clement,' muttered Ron, 'trusts him but that's no reason to let Snape dig around in your mind.'
Hermione rolled her eyes. 'Clement trusts and I actually want to learn this. Who knows when it will come in handy? I'll let Professor Snape help me.'
Ron scowled, 'I don't see why Harr–' Clement shot him a look. 'Clement can't teach us,' Ron finished looking at Clement slightly sheepishly.
'I don't know legilimency,' replied Clement coolly. 'Severus is defiantly the best one to teach you both right know. I've got to send him a note if you're feeling ready Hermione. How does the 30th sound?' he asked turning his attention away from Ron.
'Wonderful,' commented Hermione as she stood up and checked her watch. 'I've got to go to the library. See you guy later.'
Ron watched her leave reproachfully before turning to Clement. 'Do you think she's meeting Krum?' He asked aggressively.
Truthfully Clement felt that was exactly what Hermione was doing, but he also knew it wouldn't be best to tell Ron that. Besides, why shouldn't he let Hermione have some privacy? Ron would most likely go tearing after her and ruin her time with Krum. If she wanted to date Krum, well, Clement wasn't going to jeopardize that. 'I dunno,' he replied. 'I'll see you back in the common room. We can get going on that Herbology exam.'
December 30
Severus
He and Clement had agreed to meet today. Clement had warned him that Granger and Weasley would accompany him. Despite this, Severus knew that he and Clement had something important to discuss alone. That something, of course, was Clement's changing appearance. How were they to explain it if Harry Potter looked like a completely different person. Perhaps that would force their hand and they would tell people about whom Harry truly was. That of course was something he and Clement had to agree upon before any course of action was taken.
Deciding not to dwell on the topic at the moment, Severus pulled out The Two Towers, the second book in the trilogy Clement had given him. Severus had not been kidding when he said the remainder of his holidays would be, mostly work free, giving him quite a bit of leisure time. Most of this time was currently dedicated to reading the books he had been given for Christmas. The books, so far, had proven to be very good.
Around a half hour passed before it was time to meet Clement. Severus had decided to wait in his office in case his brother's two friends did come. He set aside the book, annoyed at having to stop, and began walking towards his office.
He met the three in front of his door and saw with a small amount of satisfaction that both Granger and Weasley looked extremely nervous. Perhaps that feeling stemmed from his intense teaching style and a bias against Gryffindor house. Whatever it was, Severus felt he needed to work on it, as he doubted Clement would appreciate it.
He inclined his head slightly and held the door open as the three walked ahead of into his dark office. The door shut behind Severus with a snap, leaving the four in nearly pitch darkness for a few moments. Severus pulled out his wand and flicked it. The candles on the desk and shelves lit the room with a soft glow. A fire started in the hearth, warming the room as well as lighting it.
Severus caught a look of relief on his students' faces as they sat down. Whether it was the increased warmth or lack of darkness he wasn't sure. Whatever it was, the two's faces changed, becoming nervous again.
'Good evening,' intoned Severus dryly. 'I am assuming you are both prepared to defend your minds.'
'I think so,' replied Hermione slowly.
'Perhaps you are not,' stated Severus, refraining from rolling his eyes by an extreme force of will. 'If you do not have the confidence then you are not likely to succeed.'
Granger bit her lip and then spoke, more clearly and forcefully than before. 'I am ready. Clement's been helping me practice a little and I have been working hard.'
Severus nodded. He appreciated her confidence. He felt that between her and Weasley she had the better chance of succeeding. She had the focus and the will. Weasley, on the other hand, seemed content with being average. He did the work but in a laid back way. Severus doubted that Weasley had any true motivation to really learn occlumency, though Severus was impressed that Weasley was here and apparently willing to try.
'Very well Miss. Granger. How about you Weasley?'
'Er, I'm not feeling all that confident.' The red head trailed off, looking uncertain. 'I'll just watch this time I think. Practice a little more before I let you into my mind.' He finished stoutly glaring at Severus, who merely raised his eyebrows.
'Very well then. If you do plan to hover then I request that you stay quiet.' Severus glanced at Clement who was frowning at him. Severus frowned back, before smirking slightly. Clement did not have much to be upset about in Severus' opinion. If Weasley was just going to sit there then, at the very least, he did not need to distract Granger who was willing to try.
'So, should I go first?' Clement queried, 'or do you think I'm good?'
'You are probably fine for now. You can hold me off, though I have yet to come at you at full strength. Perhaps the time has come. If Granger is prepared we shall begin with her.' Severus directed his gaze at the bushy haired girl in front of him. 'What defense have you decided to utilize?'
'Why do you need to know?' Weasley asked, though he did not look confused or eager to know the answer.
'So I can see where she needs to improve,' Severus replied shortly. 'I cannot help if I do not know what you are aiming for.'
Weasley remained silent and Granger nodded. 'That makes sense,' she said understandingly. 'I've been practicing the lack of emotions, rather than Harry, er,' she blushed and hastily corrected herself. 'That is, Clement's method.'
Severus nodded and drew his wand for the second time. 'I shall give you a few moments to prepare yourself. Inform me when you feel ready.'
It was quiet for nearly a minute while Granger gathered her thoughts. Severus watched her carefully, as did her two best friends.
She broke the silence by informing them she was ready. Her voice was quiet, yet strong and she met Severus' gaze without flinching.
'Legilimens,' intoned Severus.
Granger was unable to hold off his attack for more than a few seconds. Severus caught a few glimpses of who he assumed were her parents, as well as Clement and Weasley, before he pulled out.
Granger was breathing hard and looked slightly overwhelmed. It was understandable of course, having one's mind invaded was never a pleasant experience. Despite her practice, the only way to truly build defenses around one's thoughts was to actually defend them.
'That was far more difficult than I thought it would be.' Hermione stated, looking slightly disappointed with herself.
For some unknown reason, Severus felt the need to offer some comfort and encouragement. The urge was odd given that moments ago he had felt pleasure in seeing her anxiety.
'You did well for your first time. I did not attack with full strength, but most inexperienced wizards would be defeated by what I did. You managed to hold me off for a few seconds.' He was telling the truth, he refused to tell her anything less. 'There is obviously room for improvement but if you wish to wait to make another attempt,' he trailed off, watching her carefully.
'Once more,' she stated, determination gleaming in her eyes.
'Are you sure Hermione? That didn't sound easy or enjoyable, having someone invade your mind like that.' Weasley interjected
'Ron, don't. Just because you aren't trying, doesn't mean I can't. And in case you haven't noticed he hasn't mocked me in any way regarding what he saw.' Hermione snapped as she glared at her friend.
'He won't either,' added Clement.
Ron scowled but didn't say anything. Severus had watched the small argument with a small amount of amusement. Granger's defense of him was surprising and Severus truly did not know what he had done to deserve it. Perhaps she and Clement had discussed his behavior prior to this point. Obviously Weasley had not been involved in the conversation.
'Right. I'm ready,' stated Hermione in a calmer voice.
Again Severus attempted to invade her mind, using a small amount of power. He caught glimpses of her childhood, specifically a girl mocking her. He pulled out before he saw too much.
'I think you know have the gist of what I am trying to do. Continue to practise outside these,' he paused for a moment considering his word choice, 'lessons. Will practising in this way once a week be acceptable?'
'Yes,' Hermione replied somewhat breathlessly.
Severus turned his attention to Weasley. Though he doubted the redhead would want to try, he felt it was prudent to at least ask.
'Mr. Weasley do you feel prepared to try or are you here merely to observe?'
'Er, observe only. No offence, but I don't feel comfortable enough to let you into mind.' Ron replied hastily, glaring openly at Severus who merely raised his eyebrows.
He had expected this, but he truly felt it was important for Weasley to learn this. If the Dark lord and his followers rose again, Weasley would be in extreme danger and Severus did not want the boy to be in the middle of a masked group and be unable to defend his deepest thoughts and secrets.
'Next time then,' he stated softly to Weasleys obvious horror.
He turned to Clement, who had not said much to. The changes were becoming more obvious as time moved forward. The hair was less wild, eyes slightly less vivid. Severus would not be surprised if Dumbledore came to him with concerns.
'Would you like to show them how it's done?'
Clement grinned and nodded. What a difference from his first time.
'Ready,' he stated confidently.
Severus didn't speak, instead performing the spell nonverbally. He was met, as always, with a storm of emotion. Minutes passed as he increased the power and focus behind the spell, seeking to unwind the complex web encircling Clement's mind. It wouldn't be long before he could use his full strength. He could sense that Clement was tiring slightly, losing focus as the seconds dragged by. Severus managed to take down Clements defenses and pulled out immediately.
'Excellent. Your improvement has continued. It will not be long before we can truly battle for control of your mind.'
'Then will you teach me Legilimency?' Clement asked an excited gleam in his eye.
'Perhaps,' Severus hedged. He was unsure as to how to teach Legilimency to anyone. In addition, he did not trust anyone, not even Clement, to practise using his mind. He could cross that bridge when they came to it.
'Well ,if that's everything,' Weasley stated bluntly swinging himself out of his chair. 'We should be off.' He glanced at Granger and Clement, obviously eager to leave Severus' office.
'Thank you professor.' Granger acknowledged him with a smile. 'We'll see you later Clement.'
Weasley looked slightly mutinous as Granger half pushed him from the room.
Clement stood up after his two friends had left and Severus mirrored the action, scooping up his novel as he did. Severus walked to the door, holding it open for Clement. No words were needed; both knew where they were going.
Upon arriving at Severus' quarters, they took their usual seats.
'I've noticed something sort of weird.' Clement began, running his hands through his hair. 'Well, my appearance has been changing.' He stopped, watching Severus carefully.
'I have noticed the same,' Severus replied slowly. 'I was hoping to discuss it with you today, actually. I feel there is nothing we can do to stop as we have little knowledge of how Lily and Potter achieved it to begin with. Therefore the question is, what do we do about it?'
'Maybe we could, just tell people. I mean, why not? Or we just let it happen and see how people react.' Clement offered.
'We will have to tell people at some point. I am just worried,' Severus trailed off. He did not wish to tell Clement about his own fears that the Dark Lord was rising. It was not how the students would react, nor the majority of the wizarding public. Severus feared the Dark Lord's reaction, particularly if he returned to the fold.
'Worried about what?' Clement questioned, latching on to the unfinished sentence. 'Does it have something to do with Karkaroff?'
Of course, Clement would have put this together. Severus had hoped his brother would not have put it together so soon... or at all. He had not been pleased to realize that Clement had likely heard part of his conversation with the Head of Durmstrang. He had no desire to tell Clement to anticipate an event that may never come to pass. It was better to prepare him mentally, perhaps even teach him some advanced magic, than to inform Clement that the man who had marked him for death may rise again. Severus was not entirely sure how to respond to Cement's question. He did not wish to lie, but the truth could have unforeseen effects. Despite all of this, he could not help but feel a small smidgeon of pride that Clement had figured it out. He could use his brain.
'In a roundabout way it does. It does not need to worry you, however. Not yet anyway.' Severus watched Clement anxiously, hoping that Clement would trust him and not press for answers at this point in time.
Clement frowned at him. 'When do I need to worry about it? I'm not a child anymore. You can't just keep me in the dark all the time.'
'I know,' Severus stated softly. He did not elaborate. He did know, of course, that he would have to tell Clement sooner rather than later. Despite this, Severus also knew he wanted to put it off for as long as possible. This time around, Clement deserved some happiness. Clement already had enough to fret about with the tournament this year. He did not need more to worry about. Perhaps his conflicted emotions showed, because Clement did not continue his line of questioning.
'Fine, but you have to tell me at some point, alright?'
'I can agree to that. Believe me, if I felt it would help I would tell you now. I will not do anything but worry you needlessly, I promise. But I will tell you eventually.' Severus promised before returning to the beginning of the conversation. 'So shall we just let events unfold and see how people react?'
'Sounds good. I mean, really what could happen that wouldn't if we told them. We'll have a little more time and you can figure out how to avoid what's worrying you. Besides it seems slow enough that it shouldn't be super noticeable till next year.'
Severus nodded. Clement's plan was sound. Sometimes it was best to wait for events to unfold and as Severus felt as though he was waiting on the Dark Lord, it seemed the best plan. If they did not tell anyone, then no one could inform the Death Eaters that still wandered free. That in turn would give Severus more time to figure out what to do in regards to the Dark Lord.
'An excellent plan. How has your holiday been going?' Severus asked, switching to a lighter topic. He hoped to discover how Clement was doing on his egg. Hopefully he was at least attempting to figure it out.
'The second half has been less enjoyable than the second. I should've taken Hermione's advice and done a little more work,' said Clement ruefully.
Severus smiled, 'It would have been good advice to follow. As long as you finish it all to a high standard, there should not be a problem. Have you been working on your clue?'
Clement rolled his eyes at Severus' speech but only addressed the last question. 'A little, but it's been difficult. Too noisy, you know?'
'A vocal clue?' Severus commented curiously.
'Yeah, it screeches when you open it. I'm not too sure what it's about, but I'll figure it out.'
'If you need any help,' began Severus slowly. He was unsure as to how well Clement would accept help. From what he had seen, Clement seemed determined to prove himself through this tournament.
'I'll let you know.' Clement replied rolling his eyes and glancing at his watch. 'Listen I've got an essay to finish before Hermione goes to bed. I'll need a little help with it. See you soon!'
'Good luck with that essay,' Severus stated. 'Enjoy the end of your holiday.'
'You too, enjoy your books.' Clement grinned as he left the room.
'I have been and shall continue to,' called Severus.
January 5th
Clement
Clement sat with Ron and Hermione in the Great Hall on the first day back. He constantly glanced up at the Head Table, as he had for the last days of the holidays, watching Severus and hoping Sev wouldn't notice. He couldn't help but be immensely curious regarding what Severus wasn't telling him. Severus seemed to be treating Karkaroff with cool disdain. Clement also noticed that Karkaroff shot nervous glances in Severus' direction. He doubted anyone, aside from himself, was watching closely enough to notice.
'What are you looking at?' Hermione asked curiously.
Clement had honestly forgotten that he and Ron had yet to tell Hermione about what they had overheard. Their conversations had been focussed on Krum and Hagrid's ancestry. Though Clement constantly dwelled on Severus' relationship with Karkaroff he hadn't thought of telling Hermione.
Quickly, Clement relayed what he and Ron had heard. He had no qualms about telling her. She could be trusted implicitly and could help him figure out what Sev was keeping from him. As he told her, her brow furrowed, clearly showing her confusion.
'Interesting,' she mumbled, looking thoughtful. 'They must have known each other before now, but I can't think of why. I suppose I could do some research on Karkaroff and see what I find.'
The last statement was music to Clement's ears. When it came to research, Hermione was the unchallenged master at Hogwarts.
'I'd really appreciate it. He won't tell me anything. Some rot about me not needing to be worried.' Clement rolled his eyes.
Hermione looked at him without speaking.
'You think he's right?' Clement snapped defensively.
'Well,' began Hermione slowly, glancing away from Clements slightly hostile gaze. 'Don't you trust him?'
Clement was thrown by the question and didn't reply. Did he trust Severus? Sev had done a lot for him, was planning to continue being there for Clement. Severus had told Clement some very deep secrets and Clement had trusted Severus with his secret about the Dursleys. So how could he not trust Severus? But now he was going behind Severus' back in order to figure out something apparently being kept from him for his own good. He glanced around the Great Hall, unwilling to meet Hermione's eye. He trusted Severus, he really did. But he really wanted to know about what had Karkaroff so confused.
'Do you still want me to look up Karkaroff?' Hermione whispered, interrupting Clement's thoughts.
'I –' Clement frowned. 'Yes,' he answered, curiosity getting the better of him. He had to know.
Hermione sighed. 'Don't go blaming me if he gets upset,' she huffed before turning back to her breakfast.
January 6th
Clement
'Ron have you been practising?' Cement asked, annoyance colouring his tone.
Ron looked at the ground. 'A little.'
Hermione rolled her eyes. 'Really?'
'Well,' Ron replied, drawing out the word. He turned to Clement. 'Listen mate, I trust you. It's him I don't trust.'
'That's ridiculous Ron. I went through it and you didn't see me running away screaming. If you aren't going to try then why are you coming?' Hermione snapped.
Ron scowled. 'I need to...' He trailed off, glancing at Clement who began making assumptions.
'Do you think you need to protect us? You say you trust me but you think you need to watch over me? Over Hermione? No offense but that's slightly crazy.'
'Well mate, you can't say that he's been putting forward his best foot. He's still a strict, er, task maker.'
Clement could easily tell that Ron had been heading in a different direction. He did appreciate that Ron had changed tracks but it irked him that Ron would be so uncaring about what he said about Severus. He opened his mouth to retort but Hermione beat him too it.
'Ron! He's still our teacher and whatever you or Clement think that has certain standards. Besides he can't completely alter his personality, especially around people he isn't fond of. If we want him to treat us better we need to gain his respect. Sure he's a strict task maker, but if we work hard he'll respect us more. And that's something you haven't been doing.' She frowned reprovingly at him.
Both Ron and Clement stared at Hermione, shocked by her defense of their potions professor. Clement was also surprised that she had included him. He didn't think his standards for Sev's behavior were too unreasonable. But maybe Hermione had a point.
'Well if that's what you,' muttered Ron angrily. He looked upset. 'I guess I'll leave you too it as I haven't "worked hard enough."' He stalked way.
Hermione rolled her eyes and turned to Clement.
'Don't say he didn't deserve. Maybe I shouldn't have been so harsh, but I couldn't handle his hovering.' She sounded as though she was trying to convince herself that she had said the right things.
'We'll give him some time. He probably needed to hear it. We'd better get going or we'll be late.'
Maybe he should have gone after Ron, but it was too late now. He couldn't deal with losing Ron's friendship again but he also couldn't deal with Ron's lack of trust.
When they entered Severus' office, Clement caught the small flicker of shock that crossed Severus' face. It was quickly suppressed and the reason for it was quickly made clear.
'No Weasley today,' he commented. 'It is good to see you are dedicated.'
'Thank you sir,' Hermione replied, eyes gleaming.
By the end of her near half an hour lesson Hermione was breathing hard but her eyes were sparkling. She was already showing small improvements, though she couldn't keep Severus at bay for very long. It reminded Clement of his first lessons. He sensed that Hermione's determination was proving extremely helpful in her quest to master what Severus was teaching.
'You have been working hard.' Severus stated. 'This will have to continue if you wish to be successful. In fact, you may have to practise more than Clement did. I suspect he has a more innate grasp of this branch of magic.'
Clement beamed, easily recognizing the pride behind Sev's last statement. His greatly bolstered his self-confidence.
'Clement,' continued Severus,' your improvement has been steady throughout this year. The speed at which you managed to master this skill was very impressive. I feel you may be ready for a taste of what a true battle for your mind would be like. That is, I shall attack with full strength. If you are not prepared, then it can wait.' He added.
Rather than feeling nervous, Clement felt a thrill at the prospect of such a challenge. In addition, his confidence had been growing. It took Severus extremely long times to enter his mind.
'I'm ready,' he stated, meeting Severus eyes with a confident gaze.
Severus inclined his head. 'Miss. Granger, of course, may leave or remain according to your preference.'
'She can stay for the first time.' Clement turned to Hermione. 'You're probably just as curious as I am.'
In contrast to Hermione's small smile Severus frowned slightly, his eyebrows raised. 'I do hope by first time, you mean the only time today. Attacking and defending one's mind at full strength is immensely exhausting, particularly for a wizard your age.'
'Alright,' Clement agreed easily. He wondered exactly how much power Severus could put into this attack. He hoped it was around what they had already been practising, though he suspected Severus had more in him than that.
'Prepare yourself.'
As Severus spoke his face hardened, as though he was preparing as well. Though Clement immediately brought up his defenses, the idea that he wouldn't be given warning if this was real flashed through his mind.
Clement had thrown up a strong defense just as the silent spell hit him. It contained far more power than he had ever faced. Being honest, he hadn't thought Severus could conjure such power and use it against him. Perhaps it was the very definition of tough love. But there was no time for such thoughts as Clement's entire being dedicated itself to repelling the force jabbing at his mind. Though it felt like hours, it wasn't long before Severus tore down Clement's defenses. It did, however take longer for Severus to pull out. In that time Clement feared he may have caught a glimpse of his and Hermione's conversation. It was this that caused a surge of power that was enough to throw Severus form Clement's mind and allow Clement to enter Sev's. It only took Severus seconds to repel the unexpected attack.
Gasping, Clement allowed the room to come back into focus, taking in Hermione's awed expression and Severus' apparent exhaustion. He had never shown that Clement's lessons had affected him. Did he feel as tired as Clement by the end of most? Or did his age make him more immune to the strenuous effects?
'You've been holding a lot back,' accused Clement, still breathing hard. Not that he had expected Sev to use his full strength from the get go but he had hoped that there would've been less of a difference.
'It has been a long time since I have had to do that,' Severus murmured apologetically. 'I had forgotten my own strength. You did hold your own extremely well. All that now remains is to increase your endurance so you can reliably hold off such attacks.' He turned to Hermione, apparently disregarding what he had seen in Clement's mind. How long would he ignore it? 'Did you learn anything Miss Granger?'
'How far I have to go,' Hermione replied quickly. 'That was really impressive, both of you. Anyone could tell that you were expending huge amount of energy and focus.'
Honestly, now Clement wished Hermione would leave. If Severus was going to call him out, he'd rather get it over with. Besides he wanted to know why Sev had lingered and didn't fancy asking in front of Hermione. He didn't think Severus had done it on purpose, but he really didn't know.
He caught Hermione's eye and sent a silent plea for her to leave him and Severus alone for a little bit. Fortunately she appeared to get the message.
'I think I should get going, lots of homework and I need to eat something. Thank you so much sir. See you later Clement.'
Severus nodded his head and Clement said his goodbyes. She left the room with a small wave.
'Are you going off to dinner?' Severus asked calmly, searching Clement's face.
Didn't Severus realize how much they had to talk about? Or maybe he really hadn't seen anything. He seemed to calm to have noticed Clement going behind his back with Hermione. Or maybe he was waiting to go somewhere more private.
'I'd rather hang with you. I've got a question or two anyway.' Though he was rather hungry, he'd rather get the answers to his questions. Food could wait.
Severus gave him an inscrutable look. 'We can eat in my rooms.' He paused for a moment. 'I have my own questions for you.'
Upon arriving, Severus immediately called Fifi and asked for two plates. Apparently Severus was just as hungry as Clement. They both sat down as two plates filled with delicious looking chicken and potatoes were placed before them.
'So,' Severus began.
'Why didn't you pull out?' Clement asked, anger colouring his tone.
'The amount of power I put into the attack was not easily controlled. I was trying to stem my magic and pull out but it took time. For that I apologize. Perhaps I should have made it more clear from the beginning. Speaking of lingering –'
Before Severus could continue, Clement quickly interjected. He foresaw an argument as a result of what Sev had saw and was keen to get his answers before it happened.
'How did I push you out? I thought I had nothing left?'
Severus' mouth twisted, but he answered the question. 'It was similar to accidental magic. You were stressed and your body and magic used your reserves. Consciously wizards cannot use everything, even unconsciously using it all is difficult, which is why you have not collapsed. It did help that I was pulling out as well. At any rate what you did is rarely done unless you perceive a true threat.' There was a glimmer of sadness in Severus' eye.
'I trust you,' stated Clement. 'But I don't like people in my mind. I just reacted.'
Severus nodded. 'Understandable.' He paused for a moment, staring at Clement. Clement felt as though he was being thoroughly scrutinized.
'I cannot ignore what I saw,' Severus finally stated. This only confirmed Clement's fears as to what Severus had seen. 'Why do you feel such a need to uncover information that you do not need to know? I felt I gave you sufficient reasons to leave it alone and yet you planned to go behind my back?' Severus' voice had gotten quieter, as it normally did when he got angry.
Severus was concisely stating every argument Clement had against what he had done. For a moment he could not think of a good reason for why he had done it.
'I'm not a child Severus!' Clement exclaimed angrily. 'I have every right to know about what has you worried, because it has me worried to! Why are you suddenly talking with Karkaroff? What's getting darker? And why can't I know? Do you just like holding stuff over my head? Did you ever think that it may be something I need to prepare for? And don't you realize that I'm forming my own suspicions? Maybe they're worse than what it really is!'
Severus' face twisted, his eyes narrowed. 'You do not have every right to know,' he hissed. 'It is not something you need to worry about yet and, as such, I have no plans to tell you. I'll repeat myself. You do not need to fret. That is my job. And if you do need to be prepared I am perfectly capable of teaching you, as has been proven. You can be prepared without knowing exactly what is going on.'
The two glared at each other, ignoring their meals.
'You can't decide what's best for me,' snapped Clement.
'As the older brother and your only family, I am quite sure I can.' Severus replied coolly.
'That's completely – you're completely out of' Clement spluttered.
'I am I out of line? I am only trying to do what is best for you. You have more than enough to worry about this year and I see no need to add to it.' Severus interjected, his face closing off. His eyes still held emotion, though it was mostly frustration.
Clement scowled, his anger rendering him speechless. Even if Severus was trying to help, his methods were unhelpful and stupid. It wasn't helping in any way. All he wanted was some information, a better showing of trust. Frustration overcame Clement who stood up and stormed out of the room.
Severus
Severus scowled as he watched Clement stalk out of the room. He made no effort to go after Clement, sensing they both needed to calm down.
Why did Clement have to be so stubborn? Why could he not accept that Severus was doing the right thing? It could not be that difficult.
Severus shook his head, twisting his hands together. They had to resolve this but he was unsure how to proceed. He could not just give in. It would show weakness and he knew he was in the right. Severus had to remain firm. Despite this knowledge, the option was tempting. It would allow the two to regain some peace and trust. Severus wished Clement would trust him with this.
It reminded him of the day when Clement had climbed to the top of the old tree next to the park. Though, at the time, he had been more afraid than angry, at least until Clement had gotten down. One of these days, Clement's curiosity would get him killed. It had to be tempered. This was seemingly a good opportunity to begin. Would it be worth the potential cost? Would Severus lose Clement's trust as a result? Was his brother's life or their relationship more important?
A/N Sorry it's been so long... School and work and running keep me super busy. that and I watch too many shows which have all started up again. But I will keep up with this story. Myworst fear is abondening you guys to an unfinished plot. Thank you so much for reading and an extra special thanks to everyone reviewing. happy thanksgiving to any fellow Canadians!