Part 16:
Graduation Day:
A new distance began to establish itself between the twins and Lily. Necessary for their futures, painful all the same.
Professor MacGonagal watched it all, a tiny frown marring her brow-the only sign of her discontent. She knew why it had to be and hated it all the same.
Sober blue eyes rested on the twins as they left at last. Black met with blue and Dumbledore nodded minutely. Approval mixed with sorrow.
With one last look around, they left, shrugging of their sadness. They hadn't been happy but the school had provided a grounding for them, a home. A sense of belonging, something that they had only ever felt once.
Upon crossing the border, raw power gripped them. It coursed through their veins with unnatural speed. At last set free from the penetrating power of the Hogwarts' wards, the power seemed to want to brand them. Make up for lost time.
But the dragons flared to life, burning a path of its own through them. Slipping into a trance, the twins fell to the ground, and knew no more.
Day dawned and the twins slept on. When Lucius found them three weeks later, they were covered with bruises, blood, and grass. He shivered and called for Narcissa. Together, they transported them to the Malfoy Manor. Lucius had recently inherited it when his father unexpectedly died.
Dobby walked into the room they shared and jumped in fright when two pairs of dark eyes looked at him. They were not blinking. "Oh, master, mistress. The master will be so pleased to sees you is awake."
"Dobby, right?" Sev tested the name. The elf nodded. "Is Master Lucius around?"
"He be telling me that you is to stay in bed until he comes. He is with the Mistress Narcissa at the moment."
"Thank you, Dobby." Septina spoke before Sev could terrify the house elf. Her look silenced him.
"You is welcome, Mistress Snape." He squeaked and left.
Ever so carefully, Sev got up and climbed into her bed. Hands grasped, their magic began its difficult work. "I had no idea it was going to be so painful. Or so possessive."
"Neither did I. Do you suppose that it was the same for Lily?"
"Probably worse. She had to take on both of us at the same time and I doubt she was truly prepared for it. Do you regret not being with her, Sev?"
"Not at all. If I gave myself to her, I would lose the very essence of myself. I would have lost me."
"You do know how she feels about you."
"Yes. We talked and came to a mutual understanding. Why?"
"She told me that I might find myself in the same situation if I wasn't careful."
Silence stretched between them, but it was a comfortable silence. "I don't want that, Sev. Promise me that you will kill me if it ever happens." Desperate.
"I will. But you must promise never to leave me."
"I do."
Empty words. They both knew that a separation was imminent.
Lucius found them like that when he came in the room an hour later. "It is good to see you awake, cousins. I trust that you slept well and that Dobby didn't wake you."
"Indeed. Thank you, Lucius." Severus' voice was grave. There was something almost unhinged in the look he was giving them. Those eyes focused mostly on Septina, as though seeing her for the first time.
'This isn't good.' Septina whispered, keeping a cool look on her face. Lucius' hunger shivered in the air.
Like his sister, Severus remained detached. Yet he, too, felt it. 'I know. What do you supposed happened?'
'Lucius killed his father. I do believe that the feel of blood on his own hands is most agreeable to him.'
'Hmmm...seems that our little Lucy has all grown up.'
Lucius cleared his throat impatiently. "You two have a visitor. But he has graciously decided to see you rather than have you come to him." And you better appreciate it, hung silently in the air.
The door opened and in walked a figure rather unfamiliar to them-until they met his eyes. Though shocked, their faces were schooled to absolute calm. 'Sept, is it me or does he resemble Potter?'
From her silence, he knew she agreed.
"My young ones, what happened?"
Septina answered carefully, "Memory is vague, my lord. I only know that when we passed through the wards for the last time, we were gripped by a strong force."
"Was it a visions"?"
"It is hard to tell." Severus replied, "we haven't been able to focus on the events properly."
"Then I won't press you further. But you must tell me what happened when you recall."
"As my lord wishes."
4 Years Later:
Septina stumbled blindly towards the back door, stubbing her toes as she went. Finding the knob, she jerked iit open and was startled to see Lily standing there. "Come in." Black eyes darted around, checking to see if had seen her. The last thing she needed was for Voldemort to find out about her late night visitor. Her eyes widened as she recognized the condition her friend was in, though she was by no means showing.
"Septina, thank you. I didn't know where else to go." With no more explanation than that, the redhead was crying in her friend's reluctant embrace.
After a few moments, Sept managed to get the away from the door and into the den. The door was closed and spelled, then she conjured up two mugs of tea. "Would you care to enlighten me as to the purpose behind your late night visit?" Biting.
"Don't start with me." Glare. Sigh. "James is being an unreasonable git. He won't allow me to do anything about Voldemort. Says I might get hurt and I can't possibly understand the enormity of the situation the wizarding world finds itself in."
"I did tell you he was a chauvinist." Mild.
A sip. "I remember but I thought that somehow, he'd loosen up after being exposed to female aurors and seeing how capable they are."
"Yeah. But, Lil, your scores surpassed his." Dry. "He's jealous of you, doesn't want to lose you. I honestly don't know what you want me to do."
"I don't expect you to do anything. May I stay here for the night?"
"Stay as long as you need to, I have room. Boy or girl?"
"I want to be surprised. So don't say a word." Warning.
Hands held up in surrender. "I wouldn't think of it."
Suspicious look. "How are things working out?"
"Not bad, charms have been holding are still undetectable." Hesitant compliment.
Catlike satisfied smile. "I know. It was one of my better spells."
"But I don't know about our reports. Lucius has noticed our coming and goings at Hogwarts, he's getting suspicious as more wizards slip by."
Lily nodded thoughtfully. "I will see what I can do. It wouldn't do to have him kill you both."
"We appreciate the concern." Ironic. She helped her friend up and into the guest bedroom, turning down the covers after uttering a cleansing spell. "Sleep well, little one." She whispered to the child turning to leave, at the door, she paused. "You too."
"Thanks" Dry.
"Don't mention it."
Tossing and turning, Septina tried to ward off the dream she knew was coming. Her cries, once stifled, broke free. A scream tore through the night. Lily came running into the room, the borrowed robe hastily thrown over her sleep shirt. Wetting a cloth, she wiped the sweaty forehead, distressed to find that it wasn't sweat at all-but blood.
There was only one time she'd ever witnessed this. It was when Septina had an irrevocable vision.
Where are you, Sev? Desperate, silent cry.
As if her thoughts alone conjured him up, he suddenly stood behind her. "Move over. Get the shower started. Warm, not hot or cold. We don't want to shock her system."
She left, knowing that he wanted to find out what she saw. And the less she knew, the less hold the enemy would have over her if she was caught. After what seemed like hours, Lily heard him ask her to help him. Charming the water to retain the temperature, she reentered the room. Together, they dragged her out of bed and into the bathroom.
The seer wasn't fully conscious and it was with extreme reluctance that he left them alone. Lily sighed and guided the numb woman into the tub. With shaking hands, she gently washed her friend and then left.
Severus was waiting outside, watching the note disappear. Voldemort knew. And Lily was in more danger than she knew. Fingering his dragon, he sighed. Could this get worse? Oh, yes, it could, he remembered, lips twisting at the irony. It was up to him to convince a certain Sirius Black that he was the only one who could keep the Potters safe.
He had to talk to the wizard who had tried to kill him into being their secret keeper. Because, as much as they hated to admit it, Black was the only one who could. Remus was a danger because of his lycanthropy. Pettigrew was out merely by his associations with a certain dark lord, though the Potters weren't aware of that.
I hate my life.
"Severus?" Lily asked, resting her hand on his arm.
"I'm fine, Lily. Fine, but exceedingly tired."
"Bad day?"
"Voldemort has not been pleased with recent events. Lucius is becoming more erratic, less stable. In other words, rising in the ranks."
She was silent, knowing what that meant to him. "Septina's fine, but brittle. She'll be out in a few moments."
"All right. Thank you. Why don't you go back to bed. I'm sure that you're exhausted." Sev offered, "We'll be up for several more hours."
The red head shook. "No. I have a feeling that this is about me."
"Lily, I really think that you should go to bed." Sept's quiet voice resonated in the still room. "What we're going to be talking about does concern you and your child. But you don't want to hear it-at least not yet."
"If you think that will dissuade me, you don't remember me. I don't intend to go anywhere." Hard.
The trio descended the stairs and sat in the kitchen, a pot of Severus' special blend resting between them. "What about my child?" Lily asked, hands nervously resting on her flat belly.
Septina bowed her head, allowing her dark hair to form a curtain between them. For the first time in a long time she was unable to meet her friend's eyes. "Voldemort knows who you are. I don't know how he found out but he did. He fears you. But he fears your s...your child even more because the child will bring you to your full strength."
"My full power? Why would my son do that?" Harsh emphasis. "He is just a baby. A child not even in the beginnings of power-Pendragon child or not!"
"When he is born, that which will kill Voldemort will return." Severus was blunt, covering his shock. "You've heard tales of the wondrous sword Excalibur? Well, it isn't a myth and only you-or one of your blood-have the authority to use it. That sword can either pierce the darkness and drive it back. Or it can be used by him to rule the world in darkness."
"Much like your father's ring?" Archly.
"Yes." Septina answered, worried by her friend's apparent calm.
"How would he use it if only I can?"
"Two ways." Sept responded. "One: he can force you into a marriage with him shortly after the birth happens. Magically speaking, as well as physically and emotionally, you would be to weak to resist him."
Lily snorted. They glared at her. "I do apologize. But I can't see myself as such a poor creature as that!"
"You've never seen Voldemort when he wants to be charming." Sev commented dryly.
Skeptical eyebrow rising was the only response he received.
"Two: he could find it first by using your son as a tool. Or me." Septina acknowledged that possibility briefly, "but my abilities would only lead him to it. He would not be able to touch it. For that he needs you or the child."
Lily steepled her fingers, studying them. She knew they weren't lying, the link she'd established with them wouldn't allow it. "Then we must prevent it." Matter of fact. "And before you say it, I will not go into hiding before it is time. What was the other part of your dream?"
"Death. Darkness." A calming sip. "Persecution of muggles and those suspected of practicing the dark arts."
"Wonderful. Mass panic?"
"Of course."
Quietly they sat around the kitchen table and watched the sun rise. It was a clear, bright day of promise as though to mock the terrors the night promised them.
Lily marched into Dumbledore's office, fires in her eyes. "I have a proposition for you, Albus."
"Yes."
She blinked. "What?"
"Yes." Blue eyes twinkled, watching the fire drain away, leaving behind only confusion. She dropped into the only chair in his office at the moment. "I already know and I agree. I'm just surprised that it took you so long to figure things out. Lemon drop?"
"No, thanks. How did you know?"
"That's my secret. Muggle candy is so delightful. Are you sure you don't want one?"
"I prefer butterscotch." Lily leaned foreword. "So, how are we going to get them to agree to this?"
"Well, I was thinking that we have to be rather Slytherin about it." He smiled, producing a bowl of butterscotch candies and offering it to her.
Her eyes twinkled. "You mean there's another way to get things done?"
Over shared laughter, they planned out the whole thing. Without being aware of quite how it happened, Severus became Professor Figg's apprentice and Septina went to work in the arithmancy department. The dada position remained empty-as it had been since their sixth year.
Much to their surprise, it was filled on the first day of school-by Lily Evan Potter.
After much research, they finally came to the conclusion that the only way to save the child was to hide it somehow. More precisely, move the child into another's body. James reluctantly agreed with the decision, after much arguing with Lily.
"Do you have any idea what is involved?" He was seething.
Lily sat calmly, hands folded in her lap. "Yes. It was my idea."
"But with them of all people?"
"What's the matter? I thought you trusted the Snapes. In fact, I recall that you were most upset that I did not invite them to our wedding. Which, if you will recall, I only did because I knew their presence would make you uncomfortable."
"That is beside the point." James muttered.
She shook her head, eyes flashing angrily. "That is precisely the point. James, our child's life is at stake. Are you going to be a bigot and ignore the only help available to us?"
So, under the guidance of Headmaster Dumbledore, the twins dropped their magical shields and moved the fetus into Septina's carefully prepared body. Then special charms and guards were placed around them both to protect them and shelter the fragile life inside her.
Also, an extra guard was placed in her to keep their magics from mingling, since this pregnancy was to be unlike other wizarding pregnancies. Usually, a child bonded with its mother in order for its powers to be stable upon birth. They found a way to circumvent that problem through the use of the bond established between Lily and the twins.
"I feel like a whale. All this magic is weighing me down, he's going to know just by looking at me. One cannot fool him for long." She was matter of fact.
Lily sighed. "It can't be helped. It's a good thing that my condition was not well known."
"But it was known to enough people that it isn't a secret." Severus pointed out.
"I've already thought about that and I know what to do." Lily murmured.
The sudden twinge of all in the room alerted them to the call of Voldemort. "Good luck. And don't worry so much."
The twins quickly went to the edge of the forest, past the apparation boundaries. "You want to know what I think? I think she enjoys doing that a bit too much."
"So does Dumbledore. One could almost feel sorry for Potter. He has no idea of what he's dealing with when he deals with them. He's too honest and good. Someone should really rip the shutters off his eyes."
In seconds, they were bowed before their master among the other death eaters, the laughter gone from them. Sev glanced around as names were called out. 'And so our numbers increase.' He smelled the fear in the air. 'Some are truly being forced.'
'Most of these families are in high positions, they wanted to wait until they received guarantee of victory before joining.'
"Welcome, friends. As you must know, I have been distressed lately by the lack of faith among some of you in my abilities to come through with my promises. Lucius, take them into the next room and show them what happens to those who question me. Severus, please join him. Make sure he doesn't go to far. I would like something left of them this time."
"As Lord Voldemort wishes, I will endeavor to obey."
"See that you do." Totally missing the sarcasm.
'Have fun.'
'Don't we always?'
'I don't know. You've never let me tag along.'
The door closed.
"My little seer. Approach me." Stern.
Silent sigh. "My master? Have I done aught to displease you?"
"You are hiding something from me. I feel unnatural magic surrounding you. It feels of Dumbledore."
"Lord, I have always been unnatural." Barely hidden smirk.
Glare, but tempered with a smile. "Impertinent."
"You knew that to." She was careful though. As distracted as he was by the magic around her, she knew she couldn't push him to far.
"Tell me, how did you two manage to worm your way back into Hogwarts?"
"Lily Potter informed us of certain openings available. Since Severus has a deft touch with potions and we thought it best not to be to far from each other, we applied. Imagine our surprise when we were hired. Seems Old Fool Bumblebore doesn't pay much attention to what goes on outside his precious school." Now the smirk was out in force.
"Of course, I had forgotten about your friendship with the mudblood." Softly mused. The eyes went hard again. "Which of you is teaching the defense class?"
"Neither of us."
"What?"
"It would be most awkward for one of us to teach others how to defeat you. Rather contradicts our position, don't you think? I mean, it was all right for you to do it-you are rather brilliant at acting like an incompetent fool. But we, unfortunately, have developed a reputation for perfection and excellence over the years. No one would believe it. Besides, we could never carry it off with the same effortless grace that you did." Pause. "The job is Mrs. Potter's."
"I see."
"I'm sure you do."
Searching look. "I want you to become close to the Potter woman again."
"How close?" In a voice that was willing to do his command but not wanting close association to one of her birth.
"Close enough to be there when the child is born, you will bring it to me. Kill the woman if you need to, she is unimportant but I desire the child. It is of great interest to me."
"As you wish." She bowed, heading back into the throng below.
"Go to my rooms, I will meet you there."
Paling, she went to do what he commanded.
When the news of the miscarriage was spread days later, a lot of death eaters found themselves in enormous pain. And more than a few muggles found that their lives had little meaning. Weeks passed and Voldemort's temperament only worsened, he seemed to find peace only when another was as miserable as he-that person was usually someone associated with the Potter clan.
"Master?" Septina whispered, entering the house. It was a deadly thing to see Voldemort when one hadn't been called, but she had pleasing news. Her body hit the wall with a sickening thud. Blinking her eyes, she looked around.
Voldemort was looming over her like a malevolent spirit. "What?"
"Potter...she's pregnant." Stuttering in genuine fear.
"What?" A different tone of voice.
Carefully, she repeated her words. "The Potter woman, she's pregnant."
"So soon?" He stared at her.
"Yes. Our medi-wizards are worried but think it has something to do with the combined strength of wizard and muggle blood she possesses. They want her to take it easy, keep away from anything stressful."
"I see." He was considering her, thinking back on all he'd learned. "Very well. Give me your arm, there is much to prepare."
"Sir?"
"We'll have to keep a low profile, my dear seer, until we are sure that this child will survive. And I fully intend for it to."
Sometime in late July, Septina realized that something was going to happen. She took James aside, because Severus was at a meeting with Voldemort. The Dark Lord had the brilliant idea that she shouldn't attend meetings to stay near Lily as time got closer for the birth. "I think it's almost time."
"Are you sure?"
"No. My body is just changing to accommodate a birth for no reason I can possibly think of." Sarcasm was thick in her voice. "Don't be a bloody moron, Potter. I know you can't really help it, but please do give it a try. I know there's a brain under all that hair somewhere."
"No need to be nasty." James said. "I'll go get Lily and Albus, they'll know what to do."
Severus came home, tired of body and sick in spirit, when he heard the news. "When?"
"Soon." Septina answered. Alone she waited, curled up in front of a roaring fire. "And I am sorry about this, but I was cold."
It was late, almost midnight on the last night of July, when the child was born. Lily was waiting elsewhere for the news, she could almost taste the blood as she bit her lip. Twinkling stars gave a comforting glow to the land. Pain suddenly lanced her belly, she closed her eyes and focused. Pulling the pain into herself, she entered a state of nominal awareness. A great map of the land opened before her eyes and she saw the deeper, the truer part, the older part of the land.
Focusing on the source of that light, she found and hid what she was looking for. Emerging into consciousness, she felt stringy and out of sorts. Rising, she moved shakily towards the house. It was time.
The baby rested in James' arms, eyes wide open. Unlike other newborn babies, this one had green eyes. Somehow, he knew the boy would always have them. Passing him over to Severus, he sighed and asked, "Are you sure? Could you possibly have heard wrong?"
Glare. "I have been doing this to long to be mistaken. You and Lily must flee. Tonight, if possible. Black is your secret keeper, correct?"
"Yes." Impatient.
"Good." Lily walked in and Severus handed her the child. "It is time."
"Everything is set."
"Then we must leave. I shall not let any shadows pass over this otherwise happy occasion." Taking his sister by the hand, they apparated into the night just as Black knocked on the door.
That night, Lily and James disappeared. Dumbledore and Sirius watched them. "Will they be all right?"
"They will need to be moved in six months. But I am certain they will be. Keep faith, Sirius, they trust you. More importantly, so do others."
"Others?" The auror asked.
Albus only nodded.
"Incredible." Voldemort whispered. "I send my best available death eaters to watch and not one of them succeeded in bringing to me that which I most desire."
"Master..." Began several humble pleas.
"Silence!" He roared, suddenly standing up and moving among them. "Crucio!"
Then he left.
In the next room, Septina waited for him. "You. How could you have possibly failed me?" Harshest voice of all, he used on her.
"Dumbledore was there." Penitent response.
"And does he know what he had before him?" Cruel hands on her chin, twisting it up to meet his.
"I would suspect so, master. He did not take his eyes from either of us." Then, before he could question her further, her eyes rolled back in her head. Having never seen a vision before, he was stunned.
In a voice unlike his own, he called. "Severus! Lucius! One of you get in here!"
They both shrugged off the crucio curse as best as they could and stumbled in. Sev immediately went to his sister. "Luc, get me a cloth and some chamomile. Lord Voldemort, may I put her on your bed?"
Instead of replying with words, he moved the coverlet aside for them. Moving to the fireplace, he started a fire. Then he left them alone. Casting curses around because he could, he moved Peter to the side. "Pettigrew, go find your old friends. Get reacquainted with them, find out what you can of the child and the secret keeper. I would send one of the twins but it seems they are suspected. Do not fail me."
"I won't." Silently, resentfully, he thought 'I never have. I never plan to. Yet everyone else gets all the approbation.' But it never occurred to him to rebel, Voldemort was his master and that was the end of it.
Graduation Day:
A new distance began to establish itself between the twins and Lily. Necessary for their futures, painful all the same.
Professor MacGonagal watched it all, a tiny frown marring her brow-the only sign of her discontent. She knew why it had to be and hated it all the same.
Sober blue eyes rested on the twins as they left at last. Black met with blue and Dumbledore nodded minutely. Approval mixed with sorrow.
With one last look around, they left, shrugging of their sadness. They hadn't been happy but the school had provided a grounding for them, a home. A sense of belonging, something that they had only ever felt once.
Upon crossing the border, raw power gripped them. It coursed through their veins with unnatural speed. At last set free from the penetrating power of the Hogwarts' wards, the power seemed to want to brand them. Make up for lost time.
But the dragons flared to life, burning a path of its own through them. Slipping into a trance, the twins fell to the ground, and knew no more.
Day dawned and the twins slept on. When Lucius found them three weeks later, they were covered with bruises, blood, and grass. He shivered and called for Narcissa. Together, they transported them to the Malfoy Manor. Lucius had recently inherited it when his father unexpectedly died.
Dobby walked into the room they shared and jumped in fright when two pairs of dark eyes looked at him. They were not blinking. "Oh, master, mistress. The master will be so pleased to sees you is awake."
"Dobby, right?" Sev tested the name. The elf nodded. "Is Master Lucius around?"
"He be telling me that you is to stay in bed until he comes. He is with the Mistress Narcissa at the moment."
"Thank you, Dobby." Septina spoke before Sev could terrify the house elf. Her look silenced him.
"You is welcome, Mistress Snape." He squeaked and left.
Ever so carefully, Sev got up and climbed into her bed. Hands grasped, their magic began its difficult work. "I had no idea it was going to be so painful. Or so possessive."
"Neither did I. Do you suppose that it was the same for Lily?"
"Probably worse. She had to take on both of us at the same time and I doubt she was truly prepared for it. Do you regret not being with her, Sev?"
"Not at all. If I gave myself to her, I would lose the very essence of myself. I would have lost me."
"You do know how she feels about you."
"Yes. We talked and came to a mutual understanding. Why?"
"She told me that I might find myself in the same situation if I wasn't careful."
Silence stretched between them, but it was a comfortable silence. "I don't want that, Sev. Promise me that you will kill me if it ever happens." Desperate.
"I will. But you must promise never to leave me."
"I do."
Empty words. They both knew that a separation was imminent.
Lucius found them like that when he came in the room an hour later. "It is good to see you awake, cousins. I trust that you slept well and that Dobby didn't wake you."
"Indeed. Thank you, Lucius." Severus' voice was grave. There was something almost unhinged in the look he was giving them. Those eyes focused mostly on Septina, as though seeing her for the first time.
'This isn't good.' Septina whispered, keeping a cool look on her face. Lucius' hunger shivered in the air.
Like his sister, Severus remained detached. Yet he, too, felt it. 'I know. What do you supposed happened?'
'Lucius killed his father. I do believe that the feel of blood on his own hands is most agreeable to him.'
'Hmmm...seems that our little Lucy has all grown up.'
Lucius cleared his throat impatiently. "You two have a visitor. But he has graciously decided to see you rather than have you come to him." And you better appreciate it, hung silently in the air.
The door opened and in walked a figure rather unfamiliar to them-until they met his eyes. Though shocked, their faces were schooled to absolute calm. 'Sept, is it me or does he resemble Potter?'
From her silence, he knew she agreed.
"My young ones, what happened?"
Septina answered carefully, "Memory is vague, my lord. I only know that when we passed through the wards for the last time, we were gripped by a strong force."
"Was it a visions"?"
"It is hard to tell." Severus replied, "we haven't been able to focus on the events properly."
"Then I won't press you further. But you must tell me what happened when you recall."
"As my lord wishes."
4 Years Later:
Septina stumbled blindly towards the back door, stubbing her toes as she went. Finding the knob, she jerked iit open and was startled to see Lily standing there. "Come in." Black eyes darted around, checking to see if had seen her. The last thing she needed was for Voldemort to find out about her late night visitor. Her eyes widened as she recognized the condition her friend was in, though she was by no means showing.
"Septina, thank you. I didn't know where else to go." With no more explanation than that, the redhead was crying in her friend's reluctant embrace.
After a few moments, Sept managed to get the away from the door and into the den. The door was closed and spelled, then she conjured up two mugs of tea. "Would you care to enlighten me as to the purpose behind your late night visit?" Biting.
"Don't start with me." Glare. Sigh. "James is being an unreasonable git. He won't allow me to do anything about Voldemort. Says I might get hurt and I can't possibly understand the enormity of the situation the wizarding world finds itself in."
"I did tell you he was a chauvinist." Mild.
A sip. "I remember but I thought that somehow, he'd loosen up after being exposed to female aurors and seeing how capable they are."
"Yeah. But, Lil, your scores surpassed his." Dry. "He's jealous of you, doesn't want to lose you. I honestly don't know what you want me to do."
"I don't expect you to do anything. May I stay here for the night?"
"Stay as long as you need to, I have room. Boy or girl?"
"I want to be surprised. So don't say a word." Warning.
Hands held up in surrender. "I wouldn't think of it."
Suspicious look. "How are things working out?"
"Not bad, charms have been holding are still undetectable." Hesitant compliment.
Catlike satisfied smile. "I know. It was one of my better spells."
"But I don't know about our reports. Lucius has noticed our coming and goings at Hogwarts, he's getting suspicious as more wizards slip by."
Lily nodded thoughtfully. "I will see what I can do. It wouldn't do to have him kill you both."
"We appreciate the concern." Ironic. She helped her friend up and into the guest bedroom, turning down the covers after uttering a cleansing spell. "Sleep well, little one." She whispered to the child turning to leave, at the door, she paused. "You too."
"Thanks" Dry.
"Don't mention it."
Tossing and turning, Septina tried to ward off the dream she knew was coming. Her cries, once stifled, broke free. A scream tore through the night. Lily came running into the room, the borrowed robe hastily thrown over her sleep shirt. Wetting a cloth, she wiped the sweaty forehead, distressed to find that it wasn't sweat at all-but blood.
There was only one time she'd ever witnessed this. It was when Septina had an irrevocable vision.
Where are you, Sev? Desperate, silent cry.
As if her thoughts alone conjured him up, he suddenly stood behind her. "Move over. Get the shower started. Warm, not hot or cold. We don't want to shock her system."
She left, knowing that he wanted to find out what she saw. And the less she knew, the less hold the enemy would have over her if she was caught. After what seemed like hours, Lily heard him ask her to help him. Charming the water to retain the temperature, she reentered the room. Together, they dragged her out of bed and into the bathroom.
The seer wasn't fully conscious and it was with extreme reluctance that he left them alone. Lily sighed and guided the numb woman into the tub. With shaking hands, she gently washed her friend and then left.
Severus was waiting outside, watching the note disappear. Voldemort knew. And Lily was in more danger than she knew. Fingering his dragon, he sighed. Could this get worse? Oh, yes, it could, he remembered, lips twisting at the irony. It was up to him to convince a certain Sirius Black that he was the only one who could keep the Potters safe.
He had to talk to the wizard who had tried to kill him into being their secret keeper. Because, as much as they hated to admit it, Black was the only one who could. Remus was a danger because of his lycanthropy. Pettigrew was out merely by his associations with a certain dark lord, though the Potters weren't aware of that.
I hate my life.
"Severus?" Lily asked, resting her hand on his arm.
"I'm fine, Lily. Fine, but exceedingly tired."
"Bad day?"
"Voldemort has not been pleased with recent events. Lucius is becoming more erratic, less stable. In other words, rising in the ranks."
She was silent, knowing what that meant to him. "Septina's fine, but brittle. She'll be out in a few moments."
"All right. Thank you. Why don't you go back to bed. I'm sure that you're exhausted." Sev offered, "We'll be up for several more hours."
The red head shook. "No. I have a feeling that this is about me."
"Lily, I really think that you should go to bed." Sept's quiet voice resonated in the still room. "What we're going to be talking about does concern you and your child. But you don't want to hear it-at least not yet."
"If you think that will dissuade me, you don't remember me. I don't intend to go anywhere." Hard.
The trio descended the stairs and sat in the kitchen, a pot of Severus' special blend resting between them. "What about my child?" Lily asked, hands nervously resting on her flat belly.
Septina bowed her head, allowing her dark hair to form a curtain between them. For the first time in a long time she was unable to meet her friend's eyes. "Voldemort knows who you are. I don't know how he found out but he did. He fears you. But he fears your s...your child even more because the child will bring you to your full strength."
"My full power? Why would my son do that?" Harsh emphasis. "He is just a baby. A child not even in the beginnings of power-Pendragon child or not!"
"When he is born, that which will kill Voldemort will return." Severus was blunt, covering his shock. "You've heard tales of the wondrous sword Excalibur? Well, it isn't a myth and only you-or one of your blood-have the authority to use it. That sword can either pierce the darkness and drive it back. Or it can be used by him to rule the world in darkness."
"Much like your father's ring?" Archly.
"Yes." Septina answered, worried by her friend's apparent calm.
"How would he use it if only I can?"
"Two ways." Sept responded. "One: he can force you into a marriage with him shortly after the birth happens. Magically speaking, as well as physically and emotionally, you would be to weak to resist him."
Lily snorted. They glared at her. "I do apologize. But I can't see myself as such a poor creature as that!"
"You've never seen Voldemort when he wants to be charming." Sev commented dryly.
Skeptical eyebrow rising was the only response he received.
"Two: he could find it first by using your son as a tool. Or me." Septina acknowledged that possibility briefly, "but my abilities would only lead him to it. He would not be able to touch it. For that he needs you or the child."
Lily steepled her fingers, studying them. She knew they weren't lying, the link she'd established with them wouldn't allow it. "Then we must prevent it." Matter of fact. "And before you say it, I will not go into hiding before it is time. What was the other part of your dream?"
"Death. Darkness." A calming sip. "Persecution of muggles and those suspected of practicing the dark arts."
"Wonderful. Mass panic?"
"Of course."
Quietly they sat around the kitchen table and watched the sun rise. It was a clear, bright day of promise as though to mock the terrors the night promised them.
Lily marched into Dumbledore's office, fires in her eyes. "I have a proposition for you, Albus."
"Yes."
She blinked. "What?"
"Yes." Blue eyes twinkled, watching the fire drain away, leaving behind only confusion. She dropped into the only chair in his office at the moment. "I already know and I agree. I'm just surprised that it took you so long to figure things out. Lemon drop?"
"No, thanks. How did you know?"
"That's my secret. Muggle candy is so delightful. Are you sure you don't want one?"
"I prefer butterscotch." Lily leaned foreword. "So, how are we going to get them to agree to this?"
"Well, I was thinking that we have to be rather Slytherin about it." He smiled, producing a bowl of butterscotch candies and offering it to her.
Her eyes twinkled. "You mean there's another way to get things done?"
Over shared laughter, they planned out the whole thing. Without being aware of quite how it happened, Severus became Professor Figg's apprentice and Septina went to work in the arithmancy department. The dada position remained empty-as it had been since their sixth year.
Much to their surprise, it was filled on the first day of school-by Lily Evan Potter.
After much research, they finally came to the conclusion that the only way to save the child was to hide it somehow. More precisely, move the child into another's body. James reluctantly agreed with the decision, after much arguing with Lily.
"Do you have any idea what is involved?" He was seething.
Lily sat calmly, hands folded in her lap. "Yes. It was my idea."
"But with them of all people?"
"What's the matter? I thought you trusted the Snapes. In fact, I recall that you were most upset that I did not invite them to our wedding. Which, if you will recall, I only did because I knew their presence would make you uncomfortable."
"That is beside the point." James muttered.
She shook her head, eyes flashing angrily. "That is precisely the point. James, our child's life is at stake. Are you going to be a bigot and ignore the only help available to us?"
So, under the guidance of Headmaster Dumbledore, the twins dropped their magical shields and moved the fetus into Septina's carefully prepared body. Then special charms and guards were placed around them both to protect them and shelter the fragile life inside her.
Also, an extra guard was placed in her to keep their magics from mingling, since this pregnancy was to be unlike other wizarding pregnancies. Usually, a child bonded with its mother in order for its powers to be stable upon birth. They found a way to circumvent that problem through the use of the bond established between Lily and the twins.
"I feel like a whale. All this magic is weighing me down, he's going to know just by looking at me. One cannot fool him for long." She was matter of fact.
Lily sighed. "It can't be helped. It's a good thing that my condition was not well known."
"But it was known to enough people that it isn't a secret." Severus pointed out.
"I've already thought about that and I know what to do." Lily murmured.
The sudden twinge of all in the room alerted them to the call of Voldemort. "Good luck. And don't worry so much."
The twins quickly went to the edge of the forest, past the apparation boundaries. "You want to know what I think? I think she enjoys doing that a bit too much."
"So does Dumbledore. One could almost feel sorry for Potter. He has no idea of what he's dealing with when he deals with them. He's too honest and good. Someone should really rip the shutters off his eyes."
In seconds, they were bowed before their master among the other death eaters, the laughter gone from them. Sev glanced around as names were called out. 'And so our numbers increase.' He smelled the fear in the air. 'Some are truly being forced.'
'Most of these families are in high positions, they wanted to wait until they received guarantee of victory before joining.'
"Welcome, friends. As you must know, I have been distressed lately by the lack of faith among some of you in my abilities to come through with my promises. Lucius, take them into the next room and show them what happens to those who question me. Severus, please join him. Make sure he doesn't go to far. I would like something left of them this time."
"As Lord Voldemort wishes, I will endeavor to obey."
"See that you do." Totally missing the sarcasm.
'Have fun.'
'Don't we always?'
'I don't know. You've never let me tag along.'
The door closed.
"My little seer. Approach me." Stern.
Silent sigh. "My master? Have I done aught to displease you?"
"You are hiding something from me. I feel unnatural magic surrounding you. It feels of Dumbledore."
"Lord, I have always been unnatural." Barely hidden smirk.
Glare, but tempered with a smile. "Impertinent."
"You knew that to." She was careful though. As distracted as he was by the magic around her, she knew she couldn't push him to far.
"Tell me, how did you two manage to worm your way back into Hogwarts?"
"Lily Potter informed us of certain openings available. Since Severus has a deft touch with potions and we thought it best not to be to far from each other, we applied. Imagine our surprise when we were hired. Seems Old Fool Bumblebore doesn't pay much attention to what goes on outside his precious school." Now the smirk was out in force.
"Of course, I had forgotten about your friendship with the mudblood." Softly mused. The eyes went hard again. "Which of you is teaching the defense class?"
"Neither of us."
"What?"
"It would be most awkward for one of us to teach others how to defeat you. Rather contradicts our position, don't you think? I mean, it was all right for you to do it-you are rather brilliant at acting like an incompetent fool. But we, unfortunately, have developed a reputation for perfection and excellence over the years. No one would believe it. Besides, we could never carry it off with the same effortless grace that you did." Pause. "The job is Mrs. Potter's."
"I see."
"I'm sure you do."
Searching look. "I want you to become close to the Potter woman again."
"How close?" In a voice that was willing to do his command but not wanting close association to one of her birth.
"Close enough to be there when the child is born, you will bring it to me. Kill the woman if you need to, she is unimportant but I desire the child. It is of great interest to me."
"As you wish." She bowed, heading back into the throng below.
"Go to my rooms, I will meet you there."
Paling, she went to do what he commanded.
When the news of the miscarriage was spread days later, a lot of death eaters found themselves in enormous pain. And more than a few muggles found that their lives had little meaning. Weeks passed and Voldemort's temperament only worsened, he seemed to find peace only when another was as miserable as he-that person was usually someone associated with the Potter clan.
"Master?" Septina whispered, entering the house. It was a deadly thing to see Voldemort when one hadn't been called, but she had pleasing news. Her body hit the wall with a sickening thud. Blinking her eyes, she looked around.
Voldemort was looming over her like a malevolent spirit. "What?"
"Potter...she's pregnant." Stuttering in genuine fear.
"What?" A different tone of voice.
Carefully, she repeated her words. "The Potter woman, she's pregnant."
"So soon?" He stared at her.
"Yes. Our medi-wizards are worried but think it has something to do with the combined strength of wizard and muggle blood she possesses. They want her to take it easy, keep away from anything stressful."
"I see." He was considering her, thinking back on all he'd learned. "Very well. Give me your arm, there is much to prepare."
"Sir?"
"We'll have to keep a low profile, my dear seer, until we are sure that this child will survive. And I fully intend for it to."
Sometime in late July, Septina realized that something was going to happen. She took James aside, because Severus was at a meeting with Voldemort. The Dark Lord had the brilliant idea that she shouldn't attend meetings to stay near Lily as time got closer for the birth. "I think it's almost time."
"Are you sure?"
"No. My body is just changing to accommodate a birth for no reason I can possibly think of." Sarcasm was thick in her voice. "Don't be a bloody moron, Potter. I know you can't really help it, but please do give it a try. I know there's a brain under all that hair somewhere."
"No need to be nasty." James said. "I'll go get Lily and Albus, they'll know what to do."
Severus came home, tired of body and sick in spirit, when he heard the news. "When?"
"Soon." Septina answered. Alone she waited, curled up in front of a roaring fire. "And I am sorry about this, but I was cold."
It was late, almost midnight on the last night of July, when the child was born. Lily was waiting elsewhere for the news, she could almost taste the blood as she bit her lip. Twinkling stars gave a comforting glow to the land. Pain suddenly lanced her belly, she closed her eyes and focused. Pulling the pain into herself, she entered a state of nominal awareness. A great map of the land opened before her eyes and she saw the deeper, the truer part, the older part of the land.
Focusing on the source of that light, she found and hid what she was looking for. Emerging into consciousness, she felt stringy and out of sorts. Rising, she moved shakily towards the house. It was time.
The baby rested in James' arms, eyes wide open. Unlike other newborn babies, this one had green eyes. Somehow, he knew the boy would always have them. Passing him over to Severus, he sighed and asked, "Are you sure? Could you possibly have heard wrong?"
Glare. "I have been doing this to long to be mistaken. You and Lily must flee. Tonight, if possible. Black is your secret keeper, correct?"
"Yes." Impatient.
"Good." Lily walked in and Severus handed her the child. "It is time."
"Everything is set."
"Then we must leave. I shall not let any shadows pass over this otherwise happy occasion." Taking his sister by the hand, they apparated into the night just as Black knocked on the door.
That night, Lily and James disappeared. Dumbledore and Sirius watched them. "Will they be all right?"
"They will need to be moved in six months. But I am certain they will be. Keep faith, Sirius, they trust you. More importantly, so do others."
"Others?" The auror asked.
Albus only nodded.
"Incredible." Voldemort whispered. "I send my best available death eaters to watch and not one of them succeeded in bringing to me that which I most desire."
"Master..." Began several humble pleas.
"Silence!" He roared, suddenly standing up and moving among them. "Crucio!"
Then he left.
In the next room, Septina waited for him. "You. How could you have possibly failed me?" Harshest voice of all, he used on her.
"Dumbledore was there." Penitent response.
"And does he know what he had before him?" Cruel hands on her chin, twisting it up to meet his.
"I would suspect so, master. He did not take his eyes from either of us." Then, before he could question her further, her eyes rolled back in her head. Having never seen a vision before, he was stunned.
In a voice unlike his own, he called. "Severus! Lucius! One of you get in here!"
They both shrugged off the crucio curse as best as they could and stumbled in. Sev immediately went to his sister. "Luc, get me a cloth and some chamomile. Lord Voldemort, may I put her on your bed?"
Instead of replying with words, he moved the coverlet aside for them. Moving to the fireplace, he started a fire. Then he left them alone. Casting curses around because he could, he moved Peter to the side. "Pettigrew, go find your old friends. Get reacquainted with them, find out what you can of the child and the secret keeper. I would send one of the twins but it seems they are suspected. Do not fail me."
"I won't." Silently, resentfully, he thought 'I never have. I never plan to. Yet everyone else gets all the approbation.' But it never occurred to him to rebel, Voldemort was his master and that was the end of it.