Author's Note: Thanks, Maliks Mariks Fan Girl. Sorry for the delay but you know how real life tends to get. Hope you enjoy this part.
Part 3
Halloween:
Much to Severus' embarrassment James had actually bought a harem boy costume, still absolutely charmed by the idea. His outfit was a sheer, silky blue and he'd spelled his eyes so that he could go without glasses. Still, Severus had been hoping quite desperately that Jamie would forget the whole thing and neglected to get a costume. When he'd been informed of this, James had told him not to worry, he'd take care of everything.
Somehow, that did not help ease Severus' mind.
Inspired by the pictures Lily had seen of the women of India, she had darkened her skin and dyed her hair. A deep gold sarong over a light white shift completed the ensemble. "Severus, could you lend me a hand?" With a sigh, he helped her put the finishing touches on her costume.
"Why aren't you dressed? Won't J.P. be here soon?" she asked.
Severus shrugged, "I didn't bother getting an outfit. James said he'd handle it."
"Are you sure that's wise? He convinced Remus and Sirius to join him in his harem boy outfit," she informed him.
He sank to his knees, looking up at her as he secured the hem. "I didn't know that. Charm me sick?"
"Won't work, Mav. Here, this is yours," James tossed him a white box. "Hurry and change, we'll wait."
He sent a dubious look at the box residing in his hands, "you didn't?"
"Open it and find out," he encouraged, an enigmatic smile on his face.
Holding the box at an arm's length, Severus cautiously opened it. Looking inside, he saw an outfit nearly identical to the one James was wearing. Only his was a darker blue, more appropriate to his complexion. "You have got to be kidding."
"Nope. Now, hurry up so that I can do your hair."
"Jamie, I can't wear that. I'll look ridiculous!"
"Sev, you'll look fine. And no one will think less of you. Halloween is about play-acting," James cajoled, then changed tactics. "Its either that or the sheik's robe-and what do you think that will do to the rumor mill?"
Suddenly, his costume was much more appealing. Severus went into another room and changed, still grumbling. "I cannot believe you. Do you have any idea what this will do to my image?"
"Improve it," James wandered over to him, hairbrush in hand. His firm hand pushed Sev into the empty chair. "How do you manage to keep your hair so soft?"
"Genetics," he snapped. Against his will, he felt himself relaxing. It was a besetting sin of his that he enjoyed having his hair brushed. He considered it to be his only attribute when in his male. At least as a woman, his body filled out some. But as a man, he was too tall, too thin, too sparse looking.
James smiled, using a few pins to pull it back and off Severus' face. Picking up a make-up brush, he lightly darkened his skin tones to deepen the light Italian skin. Unlike himself, Sev only tanned after spending many days in the sun and he wanted them to look more accurate to the culture they were honoring. Nodding in satisfaction, he led his semi-hypnotized friend out of the door, hoping the daze would last long enough to get him into the Ballroom without a fight.
The four young men and Lily entered together. Their arrival, made fashionably late through James' planning, did not go unnoticed. All eyes turned their way and Severus snapped back into awareness when he felt the eyes assessing him. Unconsciously, he drew behind James' solid presence, resisting his attempts to bring him forward. The empathy he was known for felt battered by the force of the emotions in the rooms, ranging from simple lust to outright hate.
Sirius, though he delighted at the looks he was relieving, shrugged them off in favor of asking Lily to dance. The remaining three watched for a moment and Sev couldn't stop the smirk from crossing his face. It was an odd sight, a Slytherin in red dancing with a Ravenclaw in gold.
"They do your house credit, James," he murmured. Feeling him stiffen, he turned to see what had caused such a reaction. "Lucius." It was the only word necessary and they cut him off from the dance floor.
"You wouldn't be thinking of disturbing our friends, would you?" James asked, leaning against the wall and staring at the Slytherin.
Lucius scowled at the trio, gulping a bit at the look in their eyes. "Of course not. Why would I waste my time over them?"
"Because you have no life since Lily dumped you," Remus observed, looming over him just a bit.
"I don't have to listen to this," he sneered but backed off.
"Afraid?" Severus quietly asked.
"Of you three?" he snorted, "don't be foolish."
Black eyes glittered strangely, "you should."
"Are you threatening me, you abomination?"
James stepped between them, blue eyes furious. There was something feral about him. "Of course not," he whispered in his ear. "Severus, unlike you and I, is not that unwise. I have no trouble with hurting you though, Malfoy."
"James, relax. This isn't the time nor is it the place," Severus soothed before turning to the other student. "No troubles, Lucius Malfoy. You won't like what happens."
The blonde left them, glancing at them with a mixture of hostility and fear.
Remus let out a deep breath, "you two are downright scary, you know that, right?"
"Jamie!" a voice squealed. "Come dance with me!" The enthusiastic multi-colored girl reached out and pulled him onto the dance floor before an objection could pass his lips.
Sighing, Remus and Severus exchanged glances, "what now?"
Remus shrugged, "don't know. Sirius made me come."
"Know how that feels," he muttered. "What did you mean? Earlier?"
"Your faces, they lose all traces of humanity," he explained. "Its like you become someone else entirely-especially James."
Severus stared at him, not fully understanding what Remus meant. Finally, he shrugged. "I'll take your word for it. All I know is that when James gets that way, I have to focus all my energies on him. Do you want a drink?"
"Why not?" Together, they made their way towards the alcove that was filled with food and a few students.
Severus paused, the hairs on the back of his neck. Casually, he looked around, James' eyes met his pleadingly. Suppressing the desire to turn away, he tapped Remus on his shoulder. "I'll join you in a moment, Jamie needs rescuing."
Remus nodded, slightly puzzled by this knowledge, then shrugged it off. Obviously, it was something they shared on a subconscious level. He wondered if they were even aware of its presence or if they were so used to it, they didn't acknowledge it. He watched the dark haired youth make his way through the crowd towards their friend.
Severus tapped James on the shoulder, "May I?"
"Don't mind if you do," James replied, taking hold of Severus and waltzing him away from his partner.
"That wasn't what I meant," he sternly reproved, awkwardness returning to his frame. Under his careful lead, Sev found himself closer to the edge of the dance floor.
"Well, it should've been," he retorted. "Honestly, Sev, did you really think I'd leave you alone to dance with her? If it had been Lily or Kaylee, Sadie or Kalia, I wouldn't mind They are delightful, smart, and entertaining. But her? She's absolutely insipid. Besides, you are my date."
"Shame and you have never met, have they?"
"We aren't even waving acquaintances," he cheerfully replied as they joined Remus.
"Having fun?" Remus asked.
"If I said that I found playing with Devil's Snare was more fascinating, may I leave?"
"Not a chance," James answered for Remus.
With a long, drawn out sigh, Severus answered, "I am having a tolerable time."
"Do you think you could manage to sound less enthusiastic?" James asked.
"Yes."
"Thought so," he sighed. "Mav, you are a killjoy."
"I do try," he replied, picking up a glass of punch. James reached out and took it from his long fingered grip. "Do you mind?"
"No," he grinned, tossing back the entire contents of the cup. "Good stuff. You should try some of this, Sev."
"I tried. You intercepted me," his reply was dry.
James smirked, "that should teach you not to offer me a drink."
"I did not," Severus sniffed.
"You most certainly did. By bringing me over here, you volunteered to serve me first. Proper dance etiquette, sweetie," he replied.
Severus glared, ignoring Remus' stifled laughter. "You are an impossible ninny, Potter." The werewolf laughed out loud at that, he couldn't believe that Severus, of all people, had resorted to saying that.
"Losing your famous wit with that one, Snape."
"Famous? To whom?" he asked, his left eyebrow in query.
"Oh," Jamie waved vaguely, "them."
Shaking his head, Sev steered the two away from the approaching girls. "As you say."
"I do say," Jamie smiled. "Let's dance." He pulled both his friends onto the floor and guided them through the motions easily.
"James, you are crazy!" Remus exclaimed.
"I know," he was cheery.
---
Severus shook his head as he pulled down the comforter and climbed into bed. Contrary to every one of his expectations-and there had been quite a few disastrous predictions, the evening hadn't been a total nightmare. Still, he could think of several things he'd rather do. Only Jamie, he thought, could make me give up a night of contemplation for sheer frivolity. Still, as rueful as he was, he couldn't find it in himself to regret it.
There was a soft knock on the door. He paused in his reaching for the book and looked up, puzzled. "Enter," he cautiously invited. Baffled to see Lily standing there, a look of sheer frustration on her lovely face.
"May I come in and stay?" She asked, after shutting the door behind her to keep out further cold drafts.
He nodded, gesturing to the extra bed. Due to his 'condition', Severus was one of the few students who had a room of their own. All of his friends-especially Sirius-enjoyed the luxury and liberty the room provided them.
"Thanks," she quickly left the cold doorway and climbed into bed. Rolling over, she met his curious gaze and explained, "the girls wouldn't leave me alone. They kept going on about me and Sirius, like nothing else happened tonight."
Severus nodded, "understandable."
"Pleasant dreams," she murmured, yawning.
"I'd wish the same to you but I don't think it will be necessary after tonight," he teased.
The redhead snorted and threw one of the extra pillows at him. "Eat fluff and die, Snape."
---
Spring of Seventh Year:
It was the middle of the night and Severus sat up in bed, struck by unimaginable agony. At first, she wondered if Remus had bit her harder than he usually did but one glance at her hand disproved that theory. The wound had already closed over, healing nicely under Lily's care.
"Jamie," she realized. Taking care not to disturb the werewolf at the foot of her bed, she pulled on a robe and left the room, heading for the Gryffindor Tower, not overly concerned that she might be caught. Whispering the password, she slipped into the room and up the stairs. Gently touching the shaking shoulder, she moved James over and sat down.
"J.P., I'm right here. Its safe to come back from wherever you've gone," she soothed. Murmuring softly, she stroked his head and shoulders in a continuous motion. Under the influence of his guide, the sentinel slowly woke up. Bolting upright, he grabbed her in a bone crushing embrace, ignoring the gasp of pain that escaped her, "Jamie!"
"Severus," he sniffed her hair before seeking out her hand. Tugging on it, he locked her into an iron hard embrace. Tremors shook his body and through him, Severus, who was more than worried by this behavior. She was starting to feel the beginnings of a panic attack and used a little magic to wrap the blankets around them, cocooning them from the world. "My spirit guide was crying, searching for something. I knew it had to be you but I couldn't find you. You were gone. There was only darkness."
"Going somewhere is not an option," she tried to joke but it fell flat. It didn't even penetrate his mind. Only time would heal that wound. "I'm right here, James," she reiterated.
--
2 1/2 Years after Graduation:
Severus sighed as he once again freed his hair from little Harry's grasp. He could not believe that he'd let the Blacks talk him into taking Harry to the Quidditch match to watch James play. Did no one understand that he had a potions exam to take to just to get into this class? Why did they all think that just because he had a natural talent, he could just breeze through them?
And this wasn't just any class, this was his way of becoming a potions master. He'd not get another chance for five years, their requirements were that stringent. If he was to get anywhere with his potions, this was the way he had to go.
"Mad?" Harry asked, causing a smile to cross the normally stern face. Oddly enough, the young boy had begun to talk at a very young age.
In Severus' opinion, it was caused by the boy's unusual conception. After all, he had a higher percentage of intelligence due to three of his parents than most children. "No, I'm not mad. Just worried about my test."
Harry blew a raspberry, giving his opinion that there was nothing to worry about. Then went back to pulling on his hair. Severus let him, wondering what other charming manners he'd inherited from Sirius. Making their way towards the arena, they were stopped by Coach Wood. "Hello, Wood. Oliver." He smiled at the four year old who was dancing back and forth.
"Want to see 'twiditch, dad," he said, pulling on the hand.
"A more apt name for the game I've yet to hear," Severus muttered. "Was there something you wanted?"
"Yes, James asked me to give you this." He passed over an ordinary looking twig but Severus knew it for what it was. "And to tell you to sit in his usual seats."
"Dad! Twicitch!" Oliver yelled, practically tearing his arm off in his excitement.
"Oliver, settle down." He warned sternly, turning back to Severus. "Would you mind taking him with you? His mother sent me a...message and I need to talk to her."
"POOPY!" Harry suddenly exclaimed, causing Severus' comment about the howler to go unnoticed.
"You are indeed," Severus replied. "I'll be happy to take him. But first, we'll stop off at the changing area. This little guy needs a new nappy, unless you'd like to do it?"
Coach Wood backed away, as though he'd been offered a troll. "No, that's all right. Oliver, you behave yourself so that your mother will let you see more games and I'll be back soon."
"I feel sorry for his wife, if that's how he reacts to helping her out." Severus took Oliver by the hand and led him into the changing area.
The boy followed slowly, pouting at the thought that he was going to miss the start of the game cause some dumb baby was smelly. "He's stinky."
"Yes. Give me a hand," he replied, placing Harry down and ignoring the horrified look on Oliver's face.
"Ew! Don't wanna touch the stinky baby."
Severus turned and looked at him. "I just need you to hand me what I need, Mr. Wood. I assure you, you won't have to touch Harry."
Giving him a doubtful look, he nevertheless did what he was asked to. Once Harry was safely bundled up and giggling happily, he looked up at the dark man. "Twiditch now?"
He nodded, "quidditch." The trio went out and made their way to the Potter's box. James had purchased the box once he'd come into his inheritance, partly because he could. The other reason was more personal, he'd wanted Severus to feel comfortable at the games he played in. It was the only thing he'd splurged on, though he was tempted to get himself a plane.
After the opening ceremonies, Oliver sat in rapt fascination. He was so focused on the game and quiet that Severus forgot he was there at all. Harry sat on the floor in a specially designed play area, watching the game for a while before he decided to sleep was more interesting. Severus pulled out his notes and began to study them, occasionally looking around to see what the score was so that he could answer Jamie's questions.
At half-time, he heard a knock and called, "who's there?"
"Severus? Since when do you attend the games?" Molly asked, recognizing the distinctive voice.
"Molly, come in," he looked at her and the group with her. "Your brood?"
"Oh, take that look off your face. Is that Harry?" She asked, putting Ron in the play pen. "Of course it is, and I thought I told you to take that look off your face."
"It is removed even as you speak," he replied.
"Then clean your voice, I don't like that tone." Molly replied, sitting beside him. "George, Fred. Leave that poor thing alone. So, what are you doing here?"
"I was...chosen to take Harry to see his first game. Obviously, he's about as impressed by the game ad I am."
"Well, he's almost one. You can't expect him to be involved in every aspect of the game."
Severus snorted, "tell that to James and Sirius. They are both determined that Harry will be the youngest and most successful player ever."
"I'll be that," Oliver suddenly said.
Molly started, "good heavens, Oliver. I didn't realize you were there."
"But I will. No one'll be better den me," he was stubborn.
"That's quite a goal and I wish you luck with it," Severus replied solemnly.
"And we're back," the announcer said, "this is quite a game we're seeing today, folks. Potter, guards the goal hoops like they were family. And Plinthy makes a shot, which is excellently blocked by Harper. Oh, bludgers at the right and left. Will Johnson make it? And she does, before they hit Keeper Coddling. At the risk of sounding monotonous, what a game we're seeing today!"
"I hate to be rude, but they are all monotonous," Severus whispered to Molly.
"Rogue bludger!" the announcer barked, choking. "And Potter's down. No, he's completely disappeared from the field."
"Happens," Severus shrugged at her questioning look. "One of the members of the American team disappeared for six months once." There was a growl and Severus started, looking towards the sound. "Merlyn! Watch the kids, Molly!"
"But what?" she was speaking to herself. Somehow, without aid of a port key or wand, the man was no longer there. She looked at the five children and sighed, "best get me some help."
--
"Albus! What's the name of that idiot Dark Lord whose making trouble?" Severus burst into the office with little preliminaries.
"Tom?"
"Somehow, I thought he was going for something scarier."
"Oh, he goes by Lord Voldemort. Why?"
"He's got James."
"Are you sure?"
"Positive. I know my sentinel's spirit guide when I see it." Dry. "Where does he live?"
Albus fussed for a moment, looking around the papers on his desk. "Riddle Manor. If you wait, I'll get the aurors to back you up."
"No time. Send them as quickly as you can." Severus bolted out the door, powers already running along Earth's lines searching for a familiar signal.
--
"Ah, you will make a fine defensive water mage. Perfect specimen for my plans," Lord Voldemort sat on the chair, gazing down at James Potter. The man in question rose steadily to his feet, though it cost him dearly. The room was sapping his strength from him at an alarming rate. "You shall bear my name and mark well."
"I belong to no man," he defied him. Blue eyes glared, even as his power sought through the cracks in the foundation, seeking a source of water. "And no man shall ever own me."
Eyes blazed as the Dark Lord rose to his feet, the cloak billowed around him.
"Not quite up to Severus' standards, but you do okay." James taunted him, "for...I'm sorry, who are you?"
"You claim you do not know me?"
"Hate to burst your little bubble of self-importance, but no. Dealing with slime has never been my thing, though I will handle it if I must." He was beginning to feel worried, the land seemed parched for water and denied his attempts to break through.
"I am Voldemort." He spoke as though his name alone should cause the man before him to fall to his knees, trembling. Nay, begging for mercy.
"And that's supposed to mean something to me? Cause I'm drawing a blank," he finally found a tiny vein of water and pulled a bit of magic from it. With its help, he formed a shield around him and guided a thin line of thread through it. Severus would pick up on him immediately. If his guide even noticed that he was gone, that was.
Qudditch being what it was, Severus was most likely to think that he'd gotten hit and lost over the Adriatic Sea. Or another such place.
"You will pay for such insolence," he decreed.
"Do you accept credit?"
"You shouldn't taunt the man who holds your life in his hands, Potter." He was allowing this game because he wanted to see just how strong the man was. So far, he had surprised him. Others had succumbed to the drain of the room within moments of entering. This man had odd strength.
James scoffed, "since when do you hold my life in the palm of your hands?"
"Since today."
"Highly original," a new voice mocked. There was a slight push, then the Earth gave way. Power surged through Severus and, palms outstretched, blasted Voldemort off his feet. Merging together without thought, the sentinel and guide shattered the dark magic protecting the building. The borrowed magic returned to their normal dwellings, James felt renewed and whole.
Lord Voldemort gasped, feeling like he was being wretched in two. Clamping a hand down on something, he sent James and Severus away. "Pettigrew! Get your scrawny little arse in here!"
End, Act 3.
Part 3
Halloween:
Much to Severus' embarrassment James had actually bought a harem boy costume, still absolutely charmed by the idea. His outfit was a sheer, silky blue and he'd spelled his eyes so that he could go without glasses. Still, Severus had been hoping quite desperately that Jamie would forget the whole thing and neglected to get a costume. When he'd been informed of this, James had told him not to worry, he'd take care of everything.
Somehow, that did not help ease Severus' mind.
Inspired by the pictures Lily had seen of the women of India, she had darkened her skin and dyed her hair. A deep gold sarong over a light white shift completed the ensemble. "Severus, could you lend me a hand?" With a sigh, he helped her put the finishing touches on her costume.
"Why aren't you dressed? Won't J.P. be here soon?" she asked.
Severus shrugged, "I didn't bother getting an outfit. James said he'd handle it."
"Are you sure that's wise? He convinced Remus and Sirius to join him in his harem boy outfit," she informed him.
He sank to his knees, looking up at her as he secured the hem. "I didn't know that. Charm me sick?"
"Won't work, Mav. Here, this is yours," James tossed him a white box. "Hurry and change, we'll wait."
He sent a dubious look at the box residing in his hands, "you didn't?"
"Open it and find out," he encouraged, an enigmatic smile on his face.
Holding the box at an arm's length, Severus cautiously opened it. Looking inside, he saw an outfit nearly identical to the one James was wearing. Only his was a darker blue, more appropriate to his complexion. "You have got to be kidding."
"Nope. Now, hurry up so that I can do your hair."
"Jamie, I can't wear that. I'll look ridiculous!"
"Sev, you'll look fine. And no one will think less of you. Halloween is about play-acting," James cajoled, then changed tactics. "Its either that or the sheik's robe-and what do you think that will do to the rumor mill?"
Suddenly, his costume was much more appealing. Severus went into another room and changed, still grumbling. "I cannot believe you. Do you have any idea what this will do to my image?"
"Improve it," James wandered over to him, hairbrush in hand. His firm hand pushed Sev into the empty chair. "How do you manage to keep your hair so soft?"
"Genetics," he snapped. Against his will, he felt himself relaxing. It was a besetting sin of his that he enjoyed having his hair brushed. He considered it to be his only attribute when in his male. At least as a woman, his body filled out some. But as a man, he was too tall, too thin, too sparse looking.
James smiled, using a few pins to pull it back and off Severus' face. Picking up a make-up brush, he lightly darkened his skin tones to deepen the light Italian skin. Unlike himself, Sev only tanned after spending many days in the sun and he wanted them to look more accurate to the culture they were honoring. Nodding in satisfaction, he led his semi-hypnotized friend out of the door, hoping the daze would last long enough to get him into the Ballroom without a fight.
The four young men and Lily entered together. Their arrival, made fashionably late through James' planning, did not go unnoticed. All eyes turned their way and Severus snapped back into awareness when he felt the eyes assessing him. Unconsciously, he drew behind James' solid presence, resisting his attempts to bring him forward. The empathy he was known for felt battered by the force of the emotions in the rooms, ranging from simple lust to outright hate.
Sirius, though he delighted at the looks he was relieving, shrugged them off in favor of asking Lily to dance. The remaining three watched for a moment and Sev couldn't stop the smirk from crossing his face. It was an odd sight, a Slytherin in red dancing with a Ravenclaw in gold.
"They do your house credit, James," he murmured. Feeling him stiffen, he turned to see what had caused such a reaction. "Lucius." It was the only word necessary and they cut him off from the dance floor.
"You wouldn't be thinking of disturbing our friends, would you?" James asked, leaning against the wall and staring at the Slytherin.
Lucius scowled at the trio, gulping a bit at the look in their eyes. "Of course not. Why would I waste my time over them?"
"Because you have no life since Lily dumped you," Remus observed, looming over him just a bit.
"I don't have to listen to this," he sneered but backed off.
"Afraid?" Severus quietly asked.
"Of you three?" he snorted, "don't be foolish."
Black eyes glittered strangely, "you should."
"Are you threatening me, you abomination?"
James stepped between them, blue eyes furious. There was something feral about him. "Of course not," he whispered in his ear. "Severus, unlike you and I, is not that unwise. I have no trouble with hurting you though, Malfoy."
"James, relax. This isn't the time nor is it the place," Severus soothed before turning to the other student. "No troubles, Lucius Malfoy. You won't like what happens."
The blonde left them, glancing at them with a mixture of hostility and fear.
Remus let out a deep breath, "you two are downright scary, you know that, right?"
"Jamie!" a voice squealed. "Come dance with me!" The enthusiastic multi-colored girl reached out and pulled him onto the dance floor before an objection could pass his lips.
Sighing, Remus and Severus exchanged glances, "what now?"
Remus shrugged, "don't know. Sirius made me come."
"Know how that feels," he muttered. "What did you mean? Earlier?"
"Your faces, they lose all traces of humanity," he explained. "Its like you become someone else entirely-especially James."
Severus stared at him, not fully understanding what Remus meant. Finally, he shrugged. "I'll take your word for it. All I know is that when James gets that way, I have to focus all my energies on him. Do you want a drink?"
"Why not?" Together, they made their way towards the alcove that was filled with food and a few students.
Severus paused, the hairs on the back of his neck. Casually, he looked around, James' eyes met his pleadingly. Suppressing the desire to turn away, he tapped Remus on his shoulder. "I'll join you in a moment, Jamie needs rescuing."
Remus nodded, slightly puzzled by this knowledge, then shrugged it off. Obviously, it was something they shared on a subconscious level. He wondered if they were even aware of its presence or if they were so used to it, they didn't acknowledge it. He watched the dark haired youth make his way through the crowd towards their friend.
Severus tapped James on the shoulder, "May I?"
"Don't mind if you do," James replied, taking hold of Severus and waltzing him away from his partner.
"That wasn't what I meant," he sternly reproved, awkwardness returning to his frame. Under his careful lead, Sev found himself closer to the edge of the dance floor.
"Well, it should've been," he retorted. "Honestly, Sev, did you really think I'd leave you alone to dance with her? If it had been Lily or Kaylee, Sadie or Kalia, I wouldn't mind They are delightful, smart, and entertaining. But her? She's absolutely insipid. Besides, you are my date."
"Shame and you have never met, have they?"
"We aren't even waving acquaintances," he cheerfully replied as they joined Remus.
"Having fun?" Remus asked.
"If I said that I found playing with Devil's Snare was more fascinating, may I leave?"
"Not a chance," James answered for Remus.
With a long, drawn out sigh, Severus answered, "I am having a tolerable time."
"Do you think you could manage to sound less enthusiastic?" James asked.
"Yes."
"Thought so," he sighed. "Mav, you are a killjoy."
"I do try," he replied, picking up a glass of punch. James reached out and took it from his long fingered grip. "Do you mind?"
"No," he grinned, tossing back the entire contents of the cup. "Good stuff. You should try some of this, Sev."
"I tried. You intercepted me," his reply was dry.
James smirked, "that should teach you not to offer me a drink."
"I did not," Severus sniffed.
"You most certainly did. By bringing me over here, you volunteered to serve me first. Proper dance etiquette, sweetie," he replied.
Severus glared, ignoring Remus' stifled laughter. "You are an impossible ninny, Potter." The werewolf laughed out loud at that, he couldn't believe that Severus, of all people, had resorted to saying that.
"Losing your famous wit with that one, Snape."
"Famous? To whom?" he asked, his left eyebrow in query.
"Oh," Jamie waved vaguely, "them."
Shaking his head, Sev steered the two away from the approaching girls. "As you say."
"I do say," Jamie smiled. "Let's dance." He pulled both his friends onto the floor and guided them through the motions easily.
"James, you are crazy!" Remus exclaimed.
"I know," he was cheery.
---
Severus shook his head as he pulled down the comforter and climbed into bed. Contrary to every one of his expectations-and there had been quite a few disastrous predictions, the evening hadn't been a total nightmare. Still, he could think of several things he'd rather do. Only Jamie, he thought, could make me give up a night of contemplation for sheer frivolity. Still, as rueful as he was, he couldn't find it in himself to regret it.
There was a soft knock on the door. He paused in his reaching for the book and looked up, puzzled. "Enter," he cautiously invited. Baffled to see Lily standing there, a look of sheer frustration on her lovely face.
"May I come in and stay?" She asked, after shutting the door behind her to keep out further cold drafts.
He nodded, gesturing to the extra bed. Due to his 'condition', Severus was one of the few students who had a room of their own. All of his friends-especially Sirius-enjoyed the luxury and liberty the room provided them.
"Thanks," she quickly left the cold doorway and climbed into bed. Rolling over, she met his curious gaze and explained, "the girls wouldn't leave me alone. They kept going on about me and Sirius, like nothing else happened tonight."
Severus nodded, "understandable."
"Pleasant dreams," she murmured, yawning.
"I'd wish the same to you but I don't think it will be necessary after tonight," he teased.
The redhead snorted and threw one of the extra pillows at him. "Eat fluff and die, Snape."
---
Spring of Seventh Year:
It was the middle of the night and Severus sat up in bed, struck by unimaginable agony. At first, she wondered if Remus had bit her harder than he usually did but one glance at her hand disproved that theory. The wound had already closed over, healing nicely under Lily's care.
"Jamie," she realized. Taking care not to disturb the werewolf at the foot of her bed, she pulled on a robe and left the room, heading for the Gryffindor Tower, not overly concerned that she might be caught. Whispering the password, she slipped into the room and up the stairs. Gently touching the shaking shoulder, she moved James over and sat down.
"J.P., I'm right here. Its safe to come back from wherever you've gone," she soothed. Murmuring softly, she stroked his head and shoulders in a continuous motion. Under the influence of his guide, the sentinel slowly woke up. Bolting upright, he grabbed her in a bone crushing embrace, ignoring the gasp of pain that escaped her, "Jamie!"
"Severus," he sniffed her hair before seeking out her hand. Tugging on it, he locked her into an iron hard embrace. Tremors shook his body and through him, Severus, who was more than worried by this behavior. She was starting to feel the beginnings of a panic attack and used a little magic to wrap the blankets around them, cocooning them from the world. "My spirit guide was crying, searching for something. I knew it had to be you but I couldn't find you. You were gone. There was only darkness."
"Going somewhere is not an option," she tried to joke but it fell flat. It didn't even penetrate his mind. Only time would heal that wound. "I'm right here, James," she reiterated.
--
2 1/2 Years after Graduation:
Severus sighed as he once again freed his hair from little Harry's grasp. He could not believe that he'd let the Blacks talk him into taking Harry to the Quidditch match to watch James play. Did no one understand that he had a potions exam to take to just to get into this class? Why did they all think that just because he had a natural talent, he could just breeze through them?
And this wasn't just any class, this was his way of becoming a potions master. He'd not get another chance for five years, their requirements were that stringent. If he was to get anywhere with his potions, this was the way he had to go.
"Mad?" Harry asked, causing a smile to cross the normally stern face. Oddly enough, the young boy had begun to talk at a very young age.
In Severus' opinion, it was caused by the boy's unusual conception. After all, he had a higher percentage of intelligence due to three of his parents than most children. "No, I'm not mad. Just worried about my test."
Harry blew a raspberry, giving his opinion that there was nothing to worry about. Then went back to pulling on his hair. Severus let him, wondering what other charming manners he'd inherited from Sirius. Making their way towards the arena, they were stopped by Coach Wood. "Hello, Wood. Oliver." He smiled at the four year old who was dancing back and forth.
"Want to see 'twiditch, dad," he said, pulling on the hand.
"A more apt name for the game I've yet to hear," Severus muttered. "Was there something you wanted?"
"Yes, James asked me to give you this." He passed over an ordinary looking twig but Severus knew it for what it was. "And to tell you to sit in his usual seats."
"Dad! Twicitch!" Oliver yelled, practically tearing his arm off in his excitement.
"Oliver, settle down." He warned sternly, turning back to Severus. "Would you mind taking him with you? His mother sent me a...message and I need to talk to her."
"POOPY!" Harry suddenly exclaimed, causing Severus' comment about the howler to go unnoticed.
"You are indeed," Severus replied. "I'll be happy to take him. But first, we'll stop off at the changing area. This little guy needs a new nappy, unless you'd like to do it?"
Coach Wood backed away, as though he'd been offered a troll. "No, that's all right. Oliver, you behave yourself so that your mother will let you see more games and I'll be back soon."
"I feel sorry for his wife, if that's how he reacts to helping her out." Severus took Oliver by the hand and led him into the changing area.
The boy followed slowly, pouting at the thought that he was going to miss the start of the game cause some dumb baby was smelly. "He's stinky."
"Yes. Give me a hand," he replied, placing Harry down and ignoring the horrified look on Oliver's face.
"Ew! Don't wanna touch the stinky baby."
Severus turned and looked at him. "I just need you to hand me what I need, Mr. Wood. I assure you, you won't have to touch Harry."
Giving him a doubtful look, he nevertheless did what he was asked to. Once Harry was safely bundled up and giggling happily, he looked up at the dark man. "Twiditch now?"
He nodded, "quidditch." The trio went out and made their way to the Potter's box. James had purchased the box once he'd come into his inheritance, partly because he could. The other reason was more personal, he'd wanted Severus to feel comfortable at the games he played in. It was the only thing he'd splurged on, though he was tempted to get himself a plane.
After the opening ceremonies, Oliver sat in rapt fascination. He was so focused on the game and quiet that Severus forgot he was there at all. Harry sat on the floor in a specially designed play area, watching the game for a while before he decided to sleep was more interesting. Severus pulled out his notes and began to study them, occasionally looking around to see what the score was so that he could answer Jamie's questions.
At half-time, he heard a knock and called, "who's there?"
"Severus? Since when do you attend the games?" Molly asked, recognizing the distinctive voice.
"Molly, come in," he looked at her and the group with her. "Your brood?"
"Oh, take that look off your face. Is that Harry?" She asked, putting Ron in the play pen. "Of course it is, and I thought I told you to take that look off your face."
"It is removed even as you speak," he replied.
"Then clean your voice, I don't like that tone." Molly replied, sitting beside him. "George, Fred. Leave that poor thing alone. So, what are you doing here?"
"I was...chosen to take Harry to see his first game. Obviously, he's about as impressed by the game ad I am."
"Well, he's almost one. You can't expect him to be involved in every aspect of the game."
Severus snorted, "tell that to James and Sirius. They are both determined that Harry will be the youngest and most successful player ever."
"I'll be that," Oliver suddenly said.
Molly started, "good heavens, Oliver. I didn't realize you were there."
"But I will. No one'll be better den me," he was stubborn.
"That's quite a goal and I wish you luck with it," Severus replied solemnly.
"And we're back," the announcer said, "this is quite a game we're seeing today, folks. Potter, guards the goal hoops like they were family. And Plinthy makes a shot, which is excellently blocked by Harper. Oh, bludgers at the right and left. Will Johnson make it? And she does, before they hit Keeper Coddling. At the risk of sounding monotonous, what a game we're seeing today!"
"I hate to be rude, but they are all monotonous," Severus whispered to Molly.
"Rogue bludger!" the announcer barked, choking. "And Potter's down. No, he's completely disappeared from the field."
"Happens," Severus shrugged at her questioning look. "One of the members of the American team disappeared for six months once." There was a growl and Severus started, looking towards the sound. "Merlyn! Watch the kids, Molly!"
"But what?" she was speaking to herself. Somehow, without aid of a port key or wand, the man was no longer there. She looked at the five children and sighed, "best get me some help."
--
"Albus! What's the name of that idiot Dark Lord whose making trouble?" Severus burst into the office with little preliminaries.
"Tom?"
"Somehow, I thought he was going for something scarier."
"Oh, he goes by Lord Voldemort. Why?"
"He's got James."
"Are you sure?"
"Positive. I know my sentinel's spirit guide when I see it." Dry. "Where does he live?"
Albus fussed for a moment, looking around the papers on his desk. "Riddle Manor. If you wait, I'll get the aurors to back you up."
"No time. Send them as quickly as you can." Severus bolted out the door, powers already running along Earth's lines searching for a familiar signal.
--
"Ah, you will make a fine defensive water mage. Perfect specimen for my plans," Lord Voldemort sat on the chair, gazing down at James Potter. The man in question rose steadily to his feet, though it cost him dearly. The room was sapping his strength from him at an alarming rate. "You shall bear my name and mark well."
"I belong to no man," he defied him. Blue eyes glared, even as his power sought through the cracks in the foundation, seeking a source of water. "And no man shall ever own me."
Eyes blazed as the Dark Lord rose to his feet, the cloak billowed around him.
"Not quite up to Severus' standards, but you do okay." James taunted him, "for...I'm sorry, who are you?"
"You claim you do not know me?"
"Hate to burst your little bubble of self-importance, but no. Dealing with slime has never been my thing, though I will handle it if I must." He was beginning to feel worried, the land seemed parched for water and denied his attempts to break through.
"I am Voldemort." He spoke as though his name alone should cause the man before him to fall to his knees, trembling. Nay, begging for mercy.
"And that's supposed to mean something to me? Cause I'm drawing a blank," he finally found a tiny vein of water and pulled a bit of magic from it. With its help, he formed a shield around him and guided a thin line of thread through it. Severus would pick up on him immediately. If his guide even noticed that he was gone, that was.
Qudditch being what it was, Severus was most likely to think that he'd gotten hit and lost over the Adriatic Sea. Or another such place.
"You will pay for such insolence," he decreed.
"Do you accept credit?"
"You shouldn't taunt the man who holds your life in his hands, Potter." He was allowing this game because he wanted to see just how strong the man was. So far, he had surprised him. Others had succumbed to the drain of the room within moments of entering. This man had odd strength.
James scoffed, "since when do you hold my life in the palm of your hands?"
"Since today."
"Highly original," a new voice mocked. There was a slight push, then the Earth gave way. Power surged through Severus and, palms outstretched, blasted Voldemort off his feet. Merging together without thought, the sentinel and guide shattered the dark magic protecting the building. The borrowed magic returned to their normal dwellings, James felt renewed and whole.
Lord Voldemort gasped, feeling like he was being wretched in two. Clamping a hand down on something, he sent James and Severus away. "Pettigrew! Get your scrawny little arse in here!"
End, Act 3.