Invenio Veritas
By penpunk
Disclaimer: Nope. Not mine.
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING CHAPTER CONTAINS EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF FATHER/SON FLUFF. READER DISCRETION IS ADVISED. (ENJOY!)
Chapter 21: The Invitation
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The entrance hall bustled loudly as the students waited for their carriages that would take them to the train. Most of the school had signed up to leave for the holidays. Harry was one of only three Gryffindors staying for Christmas. The two were the Creevey brothers, who were still a little wary of Alexander Snape.
Harry was looking forward to this holiday break more than any other preceding vacation. He would get to spend time with his father and have Christmas with a family member who actually cared about him. That in itself was the best gift he could have ever received.
"I'll write you as often as I can Alex," said Hermione as she tried to get a struggling Crookshanks into his cage.
"Yeah, so will we," said Ron as he looked at Sirius. Sirius nodded and smiled.
"Don't worry about me," said Harry as he helped Hermione with Crookshanks. "I'll be fine. I really will."
"Alex, can I talk to you for a minute?" asked Sirius as he glanced at Ron for a brief moment.
"Yeah sure."
Sirius led Harry over to the side of the stairs, well away from anyone else or their prying ears.
"I talked to Dumbledore this morning," began Sirius as he pushed his hand through his hair. "He told Ron's parents everything: you and Snape, the switch, and who I really am."
"How'd they take it?" asked Harry with mounting interest.
"Dumbledore said that they were surprised but relieved when he assured them of your safety."
"What about you? Did they believe that you were innocent?"
"Apparently, Ron explained everything last summer. Dumbledore reinforced his explanation, so yes, they believe in my innocence. This brings me to my reason for talking to you. I'm not staying at the Weasley's during the break."
"You're not?"
"No," said Sirius with a deep breath. "I'm going to do some investigating for Dumbledore. Track Death Eater activity and things like that."
"As Padfoot, I hope," said Harry. A look of worry flashed across his face, causing Sirius to smile reassuringly.
"Of course. Don't worry. I'll be careful, I promise," said Sirius as he gave Harry's shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "You can still get a hold of me at the Weasleys'. I'll be staying there for a few days before setting out. If everything goes will, I'll be back there before the end of the holiday."
"What do you mean 'if'?" asked Harry.
"Don't worry about it," said Sirius. "I can handle myself. I'll see you as soon as I get back to Hogwarts."
Harry nodded as he and Sirius made their way back to Hermione and Ron.
"So, did you figure our what you're getting your dad for Christmas yet?" asked Ron as Harry and Sirius rejoined them.
"Yeah, actually I do. I'm making him something."
"What?" asked Hermione. Before Harry could answer, Professor McGonagall called out to all the departing students.
"Your attention please!" cried the witch as she opened the doors to the front entrance. "Your carriages are outside. Be safe over this holiday and have fun. Remember, the train leaves at 10:00 A.M. on January 2, so don't miss it. Follow me."
"Goodbye Alex," said Hermione as she gave Harry a quick hug.
"See ya 'round," said Ron as he gave Harry a slap on the back.
"Goodbye Alex," said Sirius. "Be safe. Happy Christmas."
"The same to you," said Harry as Sirius walked past him. "Be careful and don't do anything stupid."
"I won't, I promise," said Sirius before he was moved along with the rest of the students waiting to leave. Harry watched them all leave, turning and walking towards the dungeons as the doors to the school closed.
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Harry reached out to knock on his father's door, but stopped when he heard fast moving steps. He looked down the dungeon corridor and saw his father walking towards him. An uncharacteristic smile graced Severus' lips as he saw his son at his door.
"I take it everyone left?" asked Severus as he disarmed the ward on his door. Harry nodded as he followed Severus into his chambers, closing the door behind him. "What a gift for me. Two weeks without Black."
Harry rolled his eyes as he plopped down on the leather sofa.
"How long has it been since Sirius sent you down to the Shrieking Shack? Is it possible to hold a grudge that long?"
"He tried to kill me," said Severus as he crossed his arms and sat down in the armchair next to Harry. "And it's not a grudge. I hated him before the incident and I still do. Nothing has changed."
"And you did absolutely nothing to him? I'm pretty sure you are not innocent in this whole thing," said Harry with a wry smile.
Severus sighed but did not answer.
"Oh come one," said Harry with a grin. "What did you do to him that made him send you there?"
"What I did was nothing worthy of bragging about. It was quite cruel actually. I realized that after the fact."
"What did you do?"
"I cracked a joke about Lupin's mother. She had been sick for sometime. I asked Black if she was dead yet, because Lupin could hardly afford to miss anymore school taking care of her. At that time, that was the excuse Lupin used during the full moon. What I didn't know was that she had died a few days earlier. You know how your Godfather is about his friends. . . ."
"What an awful thing to say!" said Harry, disgust filling his voice.
"Don't you think I know that?" asked Severus. "See, I didn't really think his mother was sick. . . ."
Both sat in silence for a few moments. Harry was looking at the wall while Severus stared down at his folded arms.
"Why wasn't Sirius expelled?" asked Harry after a few long minutes of silence.
"I told Dumbledore not to."
Harry almost did a double take at this answer.
"What? Sirius never told me that!"
"That because he doesn't know," answered Severus, who continued to stare at his arms. "And it had better stay that way."
Severus looked up, a warning look in his eyes.
"But Sirius said that you were always trying to find a way to get James and he expelled."
"I won't deny that," said Severus with a smirk. "They did the same with me."
"So why did you stop Dumbledore from expelling Sirius?"
"Because I didn't feel right about it. I always got satisfaction from baiting Black, but anyone would have reacted the way he did. I figured that it would make me feel better about what I did by not getting him expelled. A kind of way to redeem myself without apologizing."
Harry was startled slightly when Severus laughed suddenly.
"Went right back to trying to get him expelled after that. And you know what? I never regretted saving him from expulsion."
"Did my mum have something to do with that?" asked Harry.
"Yeah, though I don't know why."
"What do you mean?" asked Harry with a puzzled expression.
"Black made my relationship with Lily a living hell, even before we started dating. I knew that she'd be crushed if he left. They argued all the time. I don't know how many times I comforted her after arguments with him, but he meant too much to her."
Again, Harry and Severus fell into silence. Harry was a little surprised at his father. They had talked before, but never about his mother. Severus was surprised at himself. He was never one to share his feelings or experiences freely, but there was something about Harry that he felt comfortable in confiding in him. Maybe it was because he was so much like Lily. Or maybe it was because he had gone do long without anyone to confide in. Whatever it was, he liked it.
"Why did you stop seeing my mum?" asked Harry, bringing Severus abruptly out of his thoughts. Severus looked in his son's eyes and saw the genuine question in them. Severus signed deeply.
"If you don't want to talk about it. . . I, um. . ."
"No, no, it's fine. You should know the truth," said Severus. He took another deep breath before answering. "I want you to know that I loved your mother. I still do and I always will. If I could have, I would have married her."
"Why didn't you?"
"Voldemort. I was young and stupid and followed some of my friends into his service. By the time I had figured out what he was all about, it was too late to turn back. I went to the only person who could help me."
"Dumbledore?" asked Harry.
Severus nodded.
"I talked to him one morning and sealed my fate as a spy. I knew what I was getting into. I knew it would be more dangerous that being an actual Deatheater but I had to do it. I just didn't realize what it would cost me. But I guess that's what I get for my poor choices."
Severus paused as he ran a hand through his hair. Sharing this part of his life was harder than he thought.
"I knew I was in a dangerous position from the moment I decided to spy. I also knew that my loved ones would be as well. I had to end my relationship with Lily. I thought I was saving her from danger, her being muggleborn and all. That. . . that was the hardest day of. . . my. . . of my life. I couldn't even tell her why. I. . ."
Severus' voice failed. The image of Lily and her green eyes filled with pain was brought back. The imaged plagued his dreams constantly but voicing it made it worse.
"It kills me to think that I could have saved her. I could have kept her safe."
Severus had seen the destroyed house of the Potters. He had seen the Ministry workers sifting through the rubble on that cold November morning. He had seen them carry away the bodies of his former love and former enemy. He had seen the fading Dark Mark in the new day's sky, smoke from the demolished house casting an eerie haze on it.
He was brought out of his memory by a touch on his face. Harry was kneeling in front of him, wiping away a tear he wasn't aware of sliding down his cheek. Seeing the same set of green eyes in front of his face that he saw in his dreams caused overwhelming emotion to wash over him. He reached out and pulled Harry into his arms, holding him as if he were a handful of sand threatening to fall through his fingers.
"I promise to you Harry," said Severus as he pulled Harry away at arms length. "No matter what happens, I will never let anything happen to you. Nothing will come between us, I can assure you that."
The smile that spread across Harry's face threw even more emotion on the fire that was racing through Severus' veins. He pulled Harry into a tighter embrace, which Harry readily returned. Neither Snape moved from their position for a long time, and both were fine with it. Neither minded one bit.
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Harry woke up the next day to the sound of cheerful whistling. He opened his eyes and rubbed them quickly, thinking that he was somehow back in the Gryffindor common room with Sirius. His eyes finally focused and he saw that he was still in his father's chambers. He sat up on the leather sofa, where he had been sleeping and saw his father sitting at his table, drinking a cup of tea, reading the Daily Prophet, and whistling "Jingle Bells."
"S-s-s-someone is sure in a good mood this morning," said Harry as he tried to stifle a yawn. Severus looked up from his paper and met Harry's eyes with a bright smile.
"It's a beautiful winter morning, no classes, no Black, and the whole day with you. Who wouldn't be cheerful?"
Harry stood up from the couch and walked over to the table, yawning as he sat down and poured himself a cup of tea.
"You couldn't be cheerful if your life depending on it," said Harry with a smirk.
"Alright, maybe cheerful isn't the right word," said Severus with a shrug. "I can say that I'm definitely not in a bad mood though."
"Thank Merlin for that," muttered Harry as he sipped his tea.
"I heard that," said Severus from behind his paper.
Harry was startled slightly when an envelope flew from underneath Severus' chamber door and onto the table. Severus folded his newspaper and set it aside before picking up the green and black envelope. He turned it over and examined the seal, which caused the smile on his lips to disappear. He opened the envelope and pulled out a very elegant looking card. As he read it, a deep scowl etched onto his face. He sighed as he handed the card to Harry.
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~~~~~You are cordially invited to the Malfoy Manor for a Christmas Eve Celebration~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Wednesday, December 24th ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~8:00 P.M.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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"It's addressed to you and me," said Severus as he tossed the envelope on the table. "This cannot turn out well."
"Then let's not go," said Harry as he laid the card of the table.
"We have no choice Harry," Severus explained as he shook his head. "We have to go. When it says 'celebration' it means that the Malfoy Manor will be packed with Deatheaters and their families. We are expected to be there. We must go."
All the cheerfulness from earlier was gone at the prospect of spending Christmas Eve with the Malfoys.
"We'll need to go into Hogsmeade today and buy you a set of new dress robes," said Severus as he set his empty teacup down. "The ones from last year have already been seen on Harry Potter, so it's best that you wear something different."
"Sirius has them anyway," mentioned Harry. "I thought that Hogsmeade was off limits though."
"Not if you're with a parent," said Severus.
"Really? Then can I get some gifts while I'm there?"
"I don't see why not," said Severus as he stood up. "It's be best if we left early, though. The crowds in Hogsmeade at this time of year are always terrible."
"Alright, I just need to change," said Harry as he got up from the table.
Fifteen minutes later, father and son were making their way through the snow, on the way to Hogsmeade. Their first stop was Gladrags Wizardwear, where Severus bought Harry his new dress robes. They were all black except for the edges of the sleeves and the collar, which were embroidered with silver and green thread in the pattern of leaves.
From there, Harry went with Severus as he filled up on his potions supply. At the bookshop, Harry bought several gifts, including a book on dark creatures for Lupin. He only hoped that Lupin didn't own it already. When he was finally done shopping, Harry had bought gifts for everyone. For Hermione, he bought a necklace whose stones changed color to match the outfit of the wearer. For Ron, he bought an official Chudley Cannons Quaffle, signed by the three chasers: Monty Chamber, Gertrude Fiddlesworth, and Jonesy McNeil. For Sirius, he bought a watch that not only could tell the time but could also carry large objects like a wand inside it. Harry thought this would be useful when he decided to transform. He stopped in at the post office to send his gifts before meeting Severus at the Three Broomsticks. Severus had done his own shopping, but would not let Harry look in the bags.
Father and son where chatting and drinking their butterbeers when Dumbledore entered the pub with the Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge, in tow. Dumbledore caught sight of Severus and Harry, and he and Fudge took seats at their table.
"Headmaster, Minister," said Severus as they both sat down. "How are you?"
"Fine Severus. Just fine," said Dumbledore. Fudge merely nodded at the potion's master before turning his eyes on Harry.
"Ah, Cornelius. I don't believe you have had the chance to meet Severus' son. This is Alexander Snape. He transferred to Hogwarts at the beginning of the year."
Fudge eyed Harry suspiciously before taking his hand and shaking it.
"I wasn't aware you had a son Severus," said Fudge as he looked from Harry to Severus. "Though, I must say, the resemblance is unmistakable."
"What brings you to Hogsmeade Minister?" asked Severus as he cast a look at Dumbledore.
"Business," said Fudge without looking at Severus. "Dumbledore, I really can't stay. I must get back to the Ministry."
"All right Cornelius," said Dumbledore as Fudge stood up. Without a single word to Severus or Harry, Fudge left the busy pub. Severus turned back to Dumbledore and the look on his face was enough to get an explanation from the headmaster.
"We were discussing the best way to inform the public of Voldemort's return," said Dumbledore in a low whisper. This earned a shocked look from both Harry and Severus. "It's no use keeping if from the public any longer. They all suspect something anyway. Nineteen muggleborn houses have been attacked in the last six weeks alone. Something must be done."
"What on earth made him change his tune," asked Severus as he glanced at Harry, his face still full of surprise.
"Pressure from the Ministry," said Dumbledore. "He would have kept it covered up for as long as possible, but they were threatening a no confidence vote against him, especially those who have lost family members. If there's one thing to use against Fudge, it's his power."
"I thought he didn't trust you," said Severus as he set down his empty butterbeer bottle.
"Yes, well I thought the same as well," said Dumbledore with a shrug. "Perhaps he thinks that he is safe from removal if he confides in me. All I know is that we can thank Arthur Weasley for this. He's been secretly working against Fudge in gaining ministry support. From what he's told me, most he's talked to believe Harry."
"Well, if he's not thrown out of office anyway, I'll eat that bowler hat of his," said Severus with a particularly nasty sneer. "Worst thing to ever happen to the Ministry he is."
"Whatever happens, we can assume that we'll have aurors on our side at least. Perhaps this can be ended quickly.
"Don't be quick to assume Albus," said Severus, warning in his eyes. "The Dark Lord loves a challenge. Now that aurors will be looking for him, he won't have to worry about secrecy. Haven't you noticed the absence of the Dark Mark floating over houses he's destroyed? Announcing his return is declaring war with him. Yes, it's best that people know, but all hell is about to break loose."
"I realize that Severus," said Dumbledore, a sad look in his eyes.
"Does this mean that everyone I named at the end of last year will be arrested?" asked Harry in a whisper.
The look on Dumbledore's face grew grave.
"I think that you, of all people, know how corrupt the government can be," said Dumbledore. "Among the people pushing for a no confidence vote was Lucius Malfoy. He's making is appear as though his hands are clean in this whole thing. I have more to tell you Severus, but I would feel better discussing it in my office. Are you free tomorrow evening?"
Severus shook his head as he looked at Harry.
"We've been invited to the Malfoy's for a party."
"Ah," said Dumbledore as he stood from the table. "Well, afterwards then?"
Severus nodded and Dumbledore smiled.
"Having a good holiday so far Alex?" asked Dumbledore's he made to leave. "I trust your father is keeping you good company."
Harry nodded.
"Wonderful. I'll see you up at the castle then. Goodbye."
Father and son sat in silence after the headmaster left. Harry could not believe what Dumbledore had just said. After months of unexplained disappearances, credit was finally going to be given to what he had said at the end of school the previous year.
"Ready to go?" asked Severus after several minutes of silence between the two.
"Yeah, let's go."
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Despite the castle being rather empty, only a dozen or so students staying for the holidays, the teachers and house elves pulled out all the stops, decorating every inch of the castle. Christmas Eve brought a blanket of fresh snow and the excitement could be felt throughout the whole castle.
Harry spent his morning and afternoon finishing up on last minute gifts and visiting with some of the students and teachers. He found that when the Creevey brothers didn't worship the ground he walked on, they were fun to hang out with. Harry had planned to spend the day with his father, but Severus had disappeared somewhere, leaving Harry to occupy himself.
We he returned from having tea with Lupin some time that night, he was left to wonder if he had walked into the right room. The usually neutral space his father lived in had been splashed with green and red decorations everywhere. In one corner of the room, a huge, brightly lit, and decorated Christmas tree stood. In another corner, Severus was standing, attaching garland to the wall with his wand.
"What on earth has gotten into you?" asked Harry with wide eyes. "Who are you and what have you down with Severus Snape?"
"Ha-ha, very funny," said Severus with a playful sneer. "What? Don't you like my decorations?"
"No, I love them, it's just that. . . you. . ."
"I remind you of a Scrooge perhaps?" said Severus with a smile. To see his father smiling was like seeing a totally different man looking at him. "Well, normally I'd be the one to say 'bah humbug,' but for the first time in a long time, I have something to celebrate and someone to celebrate it with."
Severus looked at the clock on the wall and saw that it was already 7:30 P.M. The smile left his face as he realized that his newfound spirit would have to be put off of several hours.
"You should probably get changed and ready to go. We have to be at the Malfoy's in thirty minutes."
Harry looked at the clock and saw that Severus was right. He grabbed his new dress robes and threw them on top of the dark green jumper and black pair of trousers he was already wearing. He grabbed his comb and walked into Severus' room and into the bathroom. He had become used to his long hair, though it was now cut a little above his shoulders after Ron made some comments about him looking like a girl. He pulled the comb through it and tucked it behind his ears. The face in the mirror was slowly becoming familiar, though he still couldn't linger too long in front of it before becoming uncomfortable.
He walked back into the living room to see that his father was already dressed and ready to go. Severus was wearing black dress robes that had a slightly higher collar than the rest of his wardrobe. Other than that, he look no different that usual.
"Ready?" asked Severus as he wrapped a black scarf around his neck and slipped on back gloves to match. He handed Harry a similar pair with a scarf, though his were green. "It probably wouldn't be wise to wear your Gryffindor garb to this party."
Harry nodded as he slipped the gloves on and wrapped the scarf around his neck.
"How are we getting there?" asked Harry as he adjusted his scarf.
"What do you mean?" asked Severus as he walked back into his room.
"How are we getting to the party?"
"Have you ever been to a wizard party before?" asked Severus as he reentered the room. Harry shook his head. "See, when a wizard throws a party, the invitation is a portkey. It'll take you to the place five minutes before the start time. It keeps everyone punctual, unless you can apperate."
Severus picked the invitation up off the table and held it out to Harry. Harry grabbed his wand out of his other robe pocket before grabbing the corner of the green and black invitation. After a few minutes passed, Harry felt the familiar tug behind his navel and rushing sound around him as his father's shoulders bumped into his own.
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They landed in the Malfoy's front lawn. For the first time, Harry saw the Malfoy Manor and what a sight it was. Harry always knew Draco's family had money but never dreamed that their wealth extended that far. The house, or mansion rather, was as big as all the houses on Privet Drive combined. It had about a hundred windows in the front alone. Each one was lit and looked inviting. If Harry didn't know better, the house could have belonged to royalty.
"Now, remember the people we're going to be around," muttered Severus out of the side of him mouth. "Be polite and keep your temper. These people aren't the easiest to get along with. Don't talk unless you are asked a question and try to remain vague. Don't go anywhere alone with anyone."
Harry simply nodded as he looked up at his father. Severus tried to smile reassuringly, but instead threw an arm around Harry's shoulder and pulled him closer as they made their way to the manor.
They were met at the door by a rather dismal looking house elf that was taking coats, caps, and other articles of clothing. Severus and Harry unwound the scarves around their necks and took off their gloves. They handed them to the house elf as they walked in.
Harry looked around the Manor as they made their way in. It was much like he imagined it would be. It was lavishly furnished in green and silver and everything looked as though it cost a fortune. Every bit of furniture had a silver serpent motif, which didn't surprise Harry one bit. The Malfoy's had been in Slytherin for hundreds of years anyway.
"Ah, Severus and Alexander! How good of you to make it to our quaint party," Harry turned to see Lucius and his wife Narcissa walking towards them. Lucius was dressed in robes of black velvet with Narcissa was in silver silk. "You know my wife, don't you Severus?"
Severus nodded and bowed to Mrs. Malfoy. She gave him the smallest hint of a smile.
"This is Alexander Snape," said Lucius, motioning towards Harry. "It seems that Severus had a son all these years and never told us."
Harry followed his father's lead by also bowing to Mrs. Malfoy.
"Ah, such manners," said Narcissa with a snobbish smile. "Why, you must be around the age of my Draco. Are you a fifth year as well?"
"Yes ma'am," said Harry.
"Young Alex is in Gryffindor, isn't that right?" said Lucius as he looked down at Harry.
"Yes sir."
"Oh, that is most unfortunate," said Narcissa with an almost pitying smile. "How do you like it there?"
"It's tolerable, ma'am," said Harry. He stole a glance at his father, but his expression was unreadable.
"How it is, I could never guess," said Narcissa before emitting a high- pitched laugh. She held out a hand to Harry as the laugh subsided. "It was very nice to meet you Alexander. My Draco is around her somewhere. Probably off with his friends. Have you had the chance to meet him yet?"
"Yes, I have," answered Harry as he nodded.
"He's a wonderful boy. You two could make great friends."
"Come dear, no need to brag," said Lucius with a smile. "Let's go greet the rest of our guest."
"Alright dear," said Narcissa. Before she walked away, she gave Harry's chin a little pinch and smiled. Lucius walked by and paused before Severus before following his wife.
"I need to talk to you later. Both of you," said Lucius as he glanced over at Harry. Severus merely nodded and watched Lucius as he went off to greet a couple that had just walked in. Severus looked down at Harry.
"Very good. Act like that with everyone who talks to you and you'll be fine."
Harry nodded. He followed his father as he greeted the other guest at the party, making sure to stick close and not draw much attention to himself. Most people were surprised to see the Severus had a son, but all were quite impressed with Harry. A batty old woman who insisted on pinching his cheeks until she drew blood separated him from Severus. Harry was saved when Draco came up and held the woman at bay.
"Please Aunt Celia, I need to talk to my friend. Let go!" said Draco as he pried the woman's fingers off Harry's cheeks. Harry was never so happy to see Draco Malfoy in his life. As the old woman walked away, grumbling, Harry looked for his father in the growing crowd of people. Apparently, the Malfoy's were quite popular.
"Thanks," said Harry as he rubbed his sore face.
"No problem," said Draco as he smiled at Harry. "That's my great-great aunt Celia. I don't think she's ever been quite right in the head. I also don't think she realizes her own strength."
"No kidding," said Harry. He had a feeling he was going to have two bruises on his cheeks.
"So how has your holiday been so far? You're staying at Hogwarts, right?"
Harry nodded.
"It's been alright. There's not very many people left at school. I'm staying with my dad in his private chambers until everyone comes back.
"I don't understand why your father never stays at his own house."
"What do you mean?" asked Harry as he and Draco took a seat at the edge of the room.
"I mean your dad has a huge house that he never lives in. I'd much rather want to stay there than Hogwarts all the time."
"He likes Hogwarts because he can get work done while he's there."
"Doesn't he have a potion's lab at his own house?"
"I don't know. I've never been there."
Puzzlement grew on Draco's face.
"I lived in Canada almost my whole life," said Harry quickly.
"Oh," said Draco, as realization hit him.
Before Draco could ask any more questions, Severus found Harry thankfully.
"Lucius needs to see us," said Severus as he looked at Draco. "Draco."
"Hello Professor Snape," said Draco. "Having a nice night?"
"A blast," said Severus sarcastically as he led Harry away. It had been a while since he heard his father take that sort of tone with anyone.
"What does Malfoy need us for?" asked Harry as Severus led him towards the end of the ballroom where the party was taking place.
"I don't know," said Severus as he again wrapped his arm around Harry's shoulder. "Whatever it is, it cannot be good. Here, take this."
Severus pulled out a potion vial with an inky blue potion in it and handed it to Harry.
"What is this for?" asked Harry as he took the vial.
"It just a precaution. Just take it. Quick."
Harry looked up at his father once more before stopping and uncorking the bottle. He downed it with one gulp and handed the empty vial back to Severus. A warm sensation flooded over his body. He went to ask his father what the potion was when Lucius interrupted him.
"Severus and Alex, follow me please."
Severus held Harry a little closer as they followed Lucius through a door in the corner of the room. It led down a darkened hallway that had stairs at the end. They walked down the stairs and through another door. This door led to another darkened hallway. Lucius led them down it and stopped at the door at the end of it.
"Through here," said Lucius as he opened the door. Severus looked at him for a few moments before walking through, holding Harry with a death grip at his side. Only only a small fire burning in the fireplace lighted the room. Harry turned quickly as the door was shut behind them. He turned forward again, still not able to see anything but the burning fire. Suddenly, a shadow in the corner moved, startling Harry and causing him to breathe very quickly. Then, a cold voice spoke, causing Harry's blood to run cold.
"Hello Alexander Snape. My name is Lord Voldemort."
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Well, from all those wonderful reviews (over 400? It can't be!) I know that people are actually reading this and want me to continue. SO I AM! YEAH! I've outlined the rest of this fic and so it's really easy to write now. I'm thinking it has five chapters left.
I hope you all like this new chapter. I wanted to get it out as soon as possible so I responded to a few reviews below. But just so you all know, I thank you thank you thank you for the reviews.
Responses:
Enahma: It's Ms. Penpunk.
Daxed: I think you must have misunderstood my "rant" last chapter. I know who Severitus is and her fic. Mine is classified as a challenge fic. I was talking about someone accusing me of copying another Severitus challenge fic, not Severitus herself. Hope that clears up everything.
Luna: Same reason I didn't share my theories with anyone else. They almost put me in a mental hospital.
Pure Venom: When he looked in the mirror, he was seeing what he desired. He desired who he thought was his family, which would have been the Potters. The mirror doesn't show truth. Does that help? Harry and Hermione hints? I don't remember putting anything like that in.
Catherine: I know who Severitus is. I've read her fics and this is a challenge fic. I explained it in another response further up. Thanks for the help though. I probably should have made my rant a little clearer.
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To everyone else (and there's a lot of you) I thoroughly enjoyed all of your predictions for the 5th book. They were all really creative and some I thought would have fit in the book nicely.
Personally, I liked the book. Not as much as PoA (my favorite), but I liked it more than Goblet of Fire. The end was so SAD. I was really, really, really sad. My favorite character is dead now. *sniff sniff*
Other than that, I liked it. Wait!
Poll time!
For those of you who have read the book:
What did you think of it?
How do you rate it among the other books? (1st, 2nd, 3rd favorite?)
Don't forget to tell me what you think of the chapter. I made it a long one for you all so I hope you like it. Happy reading!
Penpunk
By penpunk
Disclaimer: Nope. Not mine.
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING CHAPTER CONTAINS EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF FATHER/SON FLUFF. READER DISCRETION IS ADVISED. (ENJOY!)
Chapter 21: The Invitation
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The entrance hall bustled loudly as the students waited for their carriages that would take them to the train. Most of the school had signed up to leave for the holidays. Harry was one of only three Gryffindors staying for Christmas. The two were the Creevey brothers, who were still a little wary of Alexander Snape.
Harry was looking forward to this holiday break more than any other preceding vacation. He would get to spend time with his father and have Christmas with a family member who actually cared about him. That in itself was the best gift he could have ever received.
"I'll write you as often as I can Alex," said Hermione as she tried to get a struggling Crookshanks into his cage.
"Yeah, so will we," said Ron as he looked at Sirius. Sirius nodded and smiled.
"Don't worry about me," said Harry as he helped Hermione with Crookshanks. "I'll be fine. I really will."
"Alex, can I talk to you for a minute?" asked Sirius as he glanced at Ron for a brief moment.
"Yeah sure."
Sirius led Harry over to the side of the stairs, well away from anyone else or their prying ears.
"I talked to Dumbledore this morning," began Sirius as he pushed his hand through his hair. "He told Ron's parents everything: you and Snape, the switch, and who I really am."
"How'd they take it?" asked Harry with mounting interest.
"Dumbledore said that they were surprised but relieved when he assured them of your safety."
"What about you? Did they believe that you were innocent?"
"Apparently, Ron explained everything last summer. Dumbledore reinforced his explanation, so yes, they believe in my innocence. This brings me to my reason for talking to you. I'm not staying at the Weasley's during the break."
"You're not?"
"No," said Sirius with a deep breath. "I'm going to do some investigating for Dumbledore. Track Death Eater activity and things like that."
"As Padfoot, I hope," said Harry. A look of worry flashed across his face, causing Sirius to smile reassuringly.
"Of course. Don't worry. I'll be careful, I promise," said Sirius as he gave Harry's shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "You can still get a hold of me at the Weasleys'. I'll be staying there for a few days before setting out. If everything goes will, I'll be back there before the end of the holiday."
"What do you mean 'if'?" asked Harry.
"Don't worry about it," said Sirius. "I can handle myself. I'll see you as soon as I get back to Hogwarts."
Harry nodded as he and Sirius made their way back to Hermione and Ron.
"So, did you figure our what you're getting your dad for Christmas yet?" asked Ron as Harry and Sirius rejoined them.
"Yeah, actually I do. I'm making him something."
"What?" asked Hermione. Before Harry could answer, Professor McGonagall called out to all the departing students.
"Your attention please!" cried the witch as she opened the doors to the front entrance. "Your carriages are outside. Be safe over this holiday and have fun. Remember, the train leaves at 10:00 A.M. on January 2, so don't miss it. Follow me."
"Goodbye Alex," said Hermione as she gave Harry a quick hug.
"See ya 'round," said Ron as he gave Harry a slap on the back.
"Goodbye Alex," said Sirius. "Be safe. Happy Christmas."
"The same to you," said Harry as Sirius walked past him. "Be careful and don't do anything stupid."
"I won't, I promise," said Sirius before he was moved along with the rest of the students waiting to leave. Harry watched them all leave, turning and walking towards the dungeons as the doors to the school closed.
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Harry reached out to knock on his father's door, but stopped when he heard fast moving steps. He looked down the dungeon corridor and saw his father walking towards him. An uncharacteristic smile graced Severus' lips as he saw his son at his door.
"I take it everyone left?" asked Severus as he disarmed the ward on his door. Harry nodded as he followed Severus into his chambers, closing the door behind him. "What a gift for me. Two weeks without Black."
Harry rolled his eyes as he plopped down on the leather sofa.
"How long has it been since Sirius sent you down to the Shrieking Shack? Is it possible to hold a grudge that long?"
"He tried to kill me," said Severus as he crossed his arms and sat down in the armchair next to Harry. "And it's not a grudge. I hated him before the incident and I still do. Nothing has changed."
"And you did absolutely nothing to him? I'm pretty sure you are not innocent in this whole thing," said Harry with a wry smile.
Severus sighed but did not answer.
"Oh come one," said Harry with a grin. "What did you do to him that made him send you there?"
"What I did was nothing worthy of bragging about. It was quite cruel actually. I realized that after the fact."
"What did you do?"
"I cracked a joke about Lupin's mother. She had been sick for sometime. I asked Black if she was dead yet, because Lupin could hardly afford to miss anymore school taking care of her. At that time, that was the excuse Lupin used during the full moon. What I didn't know was that she had died a few days earlier. You know how your Godfather is about his friends. . . ."
"What an awful thing to say!" said Harry, disgust filling his voice.
"Don't you think I know that?" asked Severus. "See, I didn't really think his mother was sick. . . ."
Both sat in silence for a few moments. Harry was looking at the wall while Severus stared down at his folded arms.
"Why wasn't Sirius expelled?" asked Harry after a few long minutes of silence.
"I told Dumbledore not to."
Harry almost did a double take at this answer.
"What? Sirius never told me that!"
"That because he doesn't know," answered Severus, who continued to stare at his arms. "And it had better stay that way."
Severus looked up, a warning look in his eyes.
"But Sirius said that you were always trying to find a way to get James and he expelled."
"I won't deny that," said Severus with a smirk. "They did the same with me."
"So why did you stop Dumbledore from expelling Sirius?"
"Because I didn't feel right about it. I always got satisfaction from baiting Black, but anyone would have reacted the way he did. I figured that it would make me feel better about what I did by not getting him expelled. A kind of way to redeem myself without apologizing."
Harry was startled slightly when Severus laughed suddenly.
"Went right back to trying to get him expelled after that. And you know what? I never regretted saving him from expulsion."
"Did my mum have something to do with that?" asked Harry.
"Yeah, though I don't know why."
"What do you mean?" asked Harry with a puzzled expression.
"Black made my relationship with Lily a living hell, even before we started dating. I knew that she'd be crushed if he left. They argued all the time. I don't know how many times I comforted her after arguments with him, but he meant too much to her."
Again, Harry and Severus fell into silence. Harry was a little surprised at his father. They had talked before, but never about his mother. Severus was surprised at himself. He was never one to share his feelings or experiences freely, but there was something about Harry that he felt comfortable in confiding in him. Maybe it was because he was so much like Lily. Or maybe it was because he had gone do long without anyone to confide in. Whatever it was, he liked it.
"Why did you stop seeing my mum?" asked Harry, bringing Severus abruptly out of his thoughts. Severus looked in his son's eyes and saw the genuine question in them. Severus signed deeply.
"If you don't want to talk about it. . . I, um. . ."
"No, no, it's fine. You should know the truth," said Severus. He took another deep breath before answering. "I want you to know that I loved your mother. I still do and I always will. If I could have, I would have married her."
"Why didn't you?"
"Voldemort. I was young and stupid and followed some of my friends into his service. By the time I had figured out what he was all about, it was too late to turn back. I went to the only person who could help me."
"Dumbledore?" asked Harry.
Severus nodded.
"I talked to him one morning and sealed my fate as a spy. I knew what I was getting into. I knew it would be more dangerous that being an actual Deatheater but I had to do it. I just didn't realize what it would cost me. But I guess that's what I get for my poor choices."
Severus paused as he ran a hand through his hair. Sharing this part of his life was harder than he thought.
"I knew I was in a dangerous position from the moment I decided to spy. I also knew that my loved ones would be as well. I had to end my relationship with Lily. I thought I was saving her from danger, her being muggleborn and all. That. . . that was the hardest day of. . . my. . . of my life. I couldn't even tell her why. I. . ."
Severus' voice failed. The image of Lily and her green eyes filled with pain was brought back. The imaged plagued his dreams constantly but voicing it made it worse.
"It kills me to think that I could have saved her. I could have kept her safe."
Severus had seen the destroyed house of the Potters. He had seen the Ministry workers sifting through the rubble on that cold November morning. He had seen them carry away the bodies of his former love and former enemy. He had seen the fading Dark Mark in the new day's sky, smoke from the demolished house casting an eerie haze on it.
He was brought out of his memory by a touch on his face. Harry was kneeling in front of him, wiping away a tear he wasn't aware of sliding down his cheek. Seeing the same set of green eyes in front of his face that he saw in his dreams caused overwhelming emotion to wash over him. He reached out and pulled Harry into his arms, holding him as if he were a handful of sand threatening to fall through his fingers.
"I promise to you Harry," said Severus as he pulled Harry away at arms length. "No matter what happens, I will never let anything happen to you. Nothing will come between us, I can assure you that."
The smile that spread across Harry's face threw even more emotion on the fire that was racing through Severus' veins. He pulled Harry into a tighter embrace, which Harry readily returned. Neither Snape moved from their position for a long time, and both were fine with it. Neither minded one bit.
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Harry woke up the next day to the sound of cheerful whistling. He opened his eyes and rubbed them quickly, thinking that he was somehow back in the Gryffindor common room with Sirius. His eyes finally focused and he saw that he was still in his father's chambers. He sat up on the leather sofa, where he had been sleeping and saw his father sitting at his table, drinking a cup of tea, reading the Daily Prophet, and whistling "Jingle Bells."
"S-s-s-someone is sure in a good mood this morning," said Harry as he tried to stifle a yawn. Severus looked up from his paper and met Harry's eyes with a bright smile.
"It's a beautiful winter morning, no classes, no Black, and the whole day with you. Who wouldn't be cheerful?"
Harry stood up from the couch and walked over to the table, yawning as he sat down and poured himself a cup of tea.
"You couldn't be cheerful if your life depending on it," said Harry with a smirk.
"Alright, maybe cheerful isn't the right word," said Severus with a shrug. "I can say that I'm definitely not in a bad mood though."
"Thank Merlin for that," muttered Harry as he sipped his tea.
"I heard that," said Severus from behind his paper.
Harry was startled slightly when an envelope flew from underneath Severus' chamber door and onto the table. Severus folded his newspaper and set it aside before picking up the green and black envelope. He turned it over and examined the seal, which caused the smile on his lips to disappear. He opened the envelope and pulled out a very elegant looking card. As he read it, a deep scowl etched onto his face. He sighed as he handed the card to Harry.
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~~~~~You are cordially invited to the Malfoy Manor for a Christmas Eve Celebration~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Wednesday, December 24th ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~8:00 P.M.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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"It's addressed to you and me," said Severus as he tossed the envelope on the table. "This cannot turn out well."
"Then let's not go," said Harry as he laid the card of the table.
"We have no choice Harry," Severus explained as he shook his head. "We have to go. When it says 'celebration' it means that the Malfoy Manor will be packed with Deatheaters and their families. We are expected to be there. We must go."
All the cheerfulness from earlier was gone at the prospect of spending Christmas Eve with the Malfoys.
"We'll need to go into Hogsmeade today and buy you a set of new dress robes," said Severus as he set his empty teacup down. "The ones from last year have already been seen on Harry Potter, so it's best that you wear something different."
"Sirius has them anyway," mentioned Harry. "I thought that Hogsmeade was off limits though."
"Not if you're with a parent," said Severus.
"Really? Then can I get some gifts while I'm there?"
"I don't see why not," said Severus as he stood up. "It's be best if we left early, though. The crowds in Hogsmeade at this time of year are always terrible."
"Alright, I just need to change," said Harry as he got up from the table.
Fifteen minutes later, father and son were making their way through the snow, on the way to Hogsmeade. Their first stop was Gladrags Wizardwear, where Severus bought Harry his new dress robes. They were all black except for the edges of the sleeves and the collar, which were embroidered with silver and green thread in the pattern of leaves.
From there, Harry went with Severus as he filled up on his potions supply. At the bookshop, Harry bought several gifts, including a book on dark creatures for Lupin. He only hoped that Lupin didn't own it already. When he was finally done shopping, Harry had bought gifts for everyone. For Hermione, he bought a necklace whose stones changed color to match the outfit of the wearer. For Ron, he bought an official Chudley Cannons Quaffle, signed by the three chasers: Monty Chamber, Gertrude Fiddlesworth, and Jonesy McNeil. For Sirius, he bought a watch that not only could tell the time but could also carry large objects like a wand inside it. Harry thought this would be useful when he decided to transform. He stopped in at the post office to send his gifts before meeting Severus at the Three Broomsticks. Severus had done his own shopping, but would not let Harry look in the bags.
Father and son where chatting and drinking their butterbeers when Dumbledore entered the pub with the Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge, in tow. Dumbledore caught sight of Severus and Harry, and he and Fudge took seats at their table.
"Headmaster, Minister," said Severus as they both sat down. "How are you?"
"Fine Severus. Just fine," said Dumbledore. Fudge merely nodded at the potion's master before turning his eyes on Harry.
"Ah, Cornelius. I don't believe you have had the chance to meet Severus' son. This is Alexander Snape. He transferred to Hogwarts at the beginning of the year."
Fudge eyed Harry suspiciously before taking his hand and shaking it.
"I wasn't aware you had a son Severus," said Fudge as he looked from Harry to Severus. "Though, I must say, the resemblance is unmistakable."
"What brings you to Hogsmeade Minister?" asked Severus as he cast a look at Dumbledore.
"Business," said Fudge without looking at Severus. "Dumbledore, I really can't stay. I must get back to the Ministry."
"All right Cornelius," said Dumbledore as Fudge stood up. Without a single word to Severus or Harry, Fudge left the busy pub. Severus turned back to Dumbledore and the look on his face was enough to get an explanation from the headmaster.
"We were discussing the best way to inform the public of Voldemort's return," said Dumbledore in a low whisper. This earned a shocked look from both Harry and Severus. "It's no use keeping if from the public any longer. They all suspect something anyway. Nineteen muggleborn houses have been attacked in the last six weeks alone. Something must be done."
"What on earth made him change his tune," asked Severus as he glanced at Harry, his face still full of surprise.
"Pressure from the Ministry," said Dumbledore. "He would have kept it covered up for as long as possible, but they were threatening a no confidence vote against him, especially those who have lost family members. If there's one thing to use against Fudge, it's his power."
"I thought he didn't trust you," said Severus as he set down his empty butterbeer bottle.
"Yes, well I thought the same as well," said Dumbledore with a shrug. "Perhaps he thinks that he is safe from removal if he confides in me. All I know is that we can thank Arthur Weasley for this. He's been secretly working against Fudge in gaining ministry support. From what he's told me, most he's talked to believe Harry."
"Well, if he's not thrown out of office anyway, I'll eat that bowler hat of his," said Severus with a particularly nasty sneer. "Worst thing to ever happen to the Ministry he is."
"Whatever happens, we can assume that we'll have aurors on our side at least. Perhaps this can be ended quickly.
"Don't be quick to assume Albus," said Severus, warning in his eyes. "The Dark Lord loves a challenge. Now that aurors will be looking for him, he won't have to worry about secrecy. Haven't you noticed the absence of the Dark Mark floating over houses he's destroyed? Announcing his return is declaring war with him. Yes, it's best that people know, but all hell is about to break loose."
"I realize that Severus," said Dumbledore, a sad look in his eyes.
"Does this mean that everyone I named at the end of last year will be arrested?" asked Harry in a whisper.
The look on Dumbledore's face grew grave.
"I think that you, of all people, know how corrupt the government can be," said Dumbledore. "Among the people pushing for a no confidence vote was Lucius Malfoy. He's making is appear as though his hands are clean in this whole thing. I have more to tell you Severus, but I would feel better discussing it in my office. Are you free tomorrow evening?"
Severus shook his head as he looked at Harry.
"We've been invited to the Malfoy's for a party."
"Ah," said Dumbledore as he stood from the table. "Well, afterwards then?"
Severus nodded and Dumbledore smiled.
"Having a good holiday so far Alex?" asked Dumbledore's he made to leave. "I trust your father is keeping you good company."
Harry nodded.
"Wonderful. I'll see you up at the castle then. Goodbye."
Father and son sat in silence after the headmaster left. Harry could not believe what Dumbledore had just said. After months of unexplained disappearances, credit was finally going to be given to what he had said at the end of school the previous year.
"Ready to go?" asked Severus after several minutes of silence between the two.
"Yeah, let's go."
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Despite the castle being rather empty, only a dozen or so students staying for the holidays, the teachers and house elves pulled out all the stops, decorating every inch of the castle. Christmas Eve brought a blanket of fresh snow and the excitement could be felt throughout the whole castle.
Harry spent his morning and afternoon finishing up on last minute gifts and visiting with some of the students and teachers. He found that when the Creevey brothers didn't worship the ground he walked on, they were fun to hang out with. Harry had planned to spend the day with his father, but Severus had disappeared somewhere, leaving Harry to occupy himself.
We he returned from having tea with Lupin some time that night, he was left to wonder if he had walked into the right room. The usually neutral space his father lived in had been splashed with green and red decorations everywhere. In one corner of the room, a huge, brightly lit, and decorated Christmas tree stood. In another corner, Severus was standing, attaching garland to the wall with his wand.
"What on earth has gotten into you?" asked Harry with wide eyes. "Who are you and what have you down with Severus Snape?"
"Ha-ha, very funny," said Severus with a playful sneer. "What? Don't you like my decorations?"
"No, I love them, it's just that. . . you. . ."
"I remind you of a Scrooge perhaps?" said Severus with a smile. To see his father smiling was like seeing a totally different man looking at him. "Well, normally I'd be the one to say 'bah humbug,' but for the first time in a long time, I have something to celebrate and someone to celebrate it with."
Severus looked at the clock on the wall and saw that it was already 7:30 P.M. The smile left his face as he realized that his newfound spirit would have to be put off of several hours.
"You should probably get changed and ready to go. We have to be at the Malfoy's in thirty minutes."
Harry looked at the clock and saw that Severus was right. He grabbed his new dress robes and threw them on top of the dark green jumper and black pair of trousers he was already wearing. He grabbed his comb and walked into Severus' room and into the bathroom. He had become used to his long hair, though it was now cut a little above his shoulders after Ron made some comments about him looking like a girl. He pulled the comb through it and tucked it behind his ears. The face in the mirror was slowly becoming familiar, though he still couldn't linger too long in front of it before becoming uncomfortable.
He walked back into the living room to see that his father was already dressed and ready to go. Severus was wearing black dress robes that had a slightly higher collar than the rest of his wardrobe. Other than that, he look no different that usual.
"Ready?" asked Severus as he wrapped a black scarf around his neck and slipped on back gloves to match. He handed Harry a similar pair with a scarf, though his were green. "It probably wouldn't be wise to wear your Gryffindor garb to this party."
Harry nodded as he slipped the gloves on and wrapped the scarf around his neck.
"How are we getting there?" asked Harry as he adjusted his scarf.
"What do you mean?" asked Severus as he walked back into his room.
"How are we getting to the party?"
"Have you ever been to a wizard party before?" asked Severus as he reentered the room. Harry shook his head. "See, when a wizard throws a party, the invitation is a portkey. It'll take you to the place five minutes before the start time. It keeps everyone punctual, unless you can apperate."
Severus picked the invitation up off the table and held it out to Harry. Harry grabbed his wand out of his other robe pocket before grabbing the corner of the green and black invitation. After a few minutes passed, Harry felt the familiar tug behind his navel and rushing sound around him as his father's shoulders bumped into his own.
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They landed in the Malfoy's front lawn. For the first time, Harry saw the Malfoy Manor and what a sight it was. Harry always knew Draco's family had money but never dreamed that their wealth extended that far. The house, or mansion rather, was as big as all the houses on Privet Drive combined. It had about a hundred windows in the front alone. Each one was lit and looked inviting. If Harry didn't know better, the house could have belonged to royalty.
"Now, remember the people we're going to be around," muttered Severus out of the side of him mouth. "Be polite and keep your temper. These people aren't the easiest to get along with. Don't talk unless you are asked a question and try to remain vague. Don't go anywhere alone with anyone."
Harry simply nodded as he looked up at his father. Severus tried to smile reassuringly, but instead threw an arm around Harry's shoulder and pulled him closer as they made their way to the manor.
They were met at the door by a rather dismal looking house elf that was taking coats, caps, and other articles of clothing. Severus and Harry unwound the scarves around their necks and took off their gloves. They handed them to the house elf as they walked in.
Harry looked around the Manor as they made their way in. It was much like he imagined it would be. It was lavishly furnished in green and silver and everything looked as though it cost a fortune. Every bit of furniture had a silver serpent motif, which didn't surprise Harry one bit. The Malfoy's had been in Slytherin for hundreds of years anyway.
"Ah, Severus and Alexander! How good of you to make it to our quaint party," Harry turned to see Lucius and his wife Narcissa walking towards them. Lucius was dressed in robes of black velvet with Narcissa was in silver silk. "You know my wife, don't you Severus?"
Severus nodded and bowed to Mrs. Malfoy. She gave him the smallest hint of a smile.
"This is Alexander Snape," said Lucius, motioning towards Harry. "It seems that Severus had a son all these years and never told us."
Harry followed his father's lead by also bowing to Mrs. Malfoy.
"Ah, such manners," said Narcissa with a snobbish smile. "Why, you must be around the age of my Draco. Are you a fifth year as well?"
"Yes ma'am," said Harry.
"Young Alex is in Gryffindor, isn't that right?" said Lucius as he looked down at Harry.
"Yes sir."
"Oh, that is most unfortunate," said Narcissa with an almost pitying smile. "How do you like it there?"
"It's tolerable, ma'am," said Harry. He stole a glance at his father, but his expression was unreadable.
"How it is, I could never guess," said Narcissa before emitting a high- pitched laugh. She held out a hand to Harry as the laugh subsided. "It was very nice to meet you Alexander. My Draco is around her somewhere. Probably off with his friends. Have you had the chance to meet him yet?"
"Yes, I have," answered Harry as he nodded.
"He's a wonderful boy. You two could make great friends."
"Come dear, no need to brag," said Lucius with a smile. "Let's go greet the rest of our guest."
"Alright dear," said Narcissa. Before she walked away, she gave Harry's chin a little pinch and smiled. Lucius walked by and paused before Severus before following his wife.
"I need to talk to you later. Both of you," said Lucius as he glanced over at Harry. Severus merely nodded and watched Lucius as he went off to greet a couple that had just walked in. Severus looked down at Harry.
"Very good. Act like that with everyone who talks to you and you'll be fine."
Harry nodded. He followed his father as he greeted the other guest at the party, making sure to stick close and not draw much attention to himself. Most people were surprised to see the Severus had a son, but all were quite impressed with Harry. A batty old woman who insisted on pinching his cheeks until she drew blood separated him from Severus. Harry was saved when Draco came up and held the woman at bay.
"Please Aunt Celia, I need to talk to my friend. Let go!" said Draco as he pried the woman's fingers off Harry's cheeks. Harry was never so happy to see Draco Malfoy in his life. As the old woman walked away, grumbling, Harry looked for his father in the growing crowd of people. Apparently, the Malfoy's were quite popular.
"Thanks," said Harry as he rubbed his sore face.
"No problem," said Draco as he smiled at Harry. "That's my great-great aunt Celia. I don't think she's ever been quite right in the head. I also don't think she realizes her own strength."
"No kidding," said Harry. He had a feeling he was going to have two bruises on his cheeks.
"So how has your holiday been so far? You're staying at Hogwarts, right?"
Harry nodded.
"It's been alright. There's not very many people left at school. I'm staying with my dad in his private chambers until everyone comes back.
"I don't understand why your father never stays at his own house."
"What do you mean?" asked Harry as he and Draco took a seat at the edge of the room.
"I mean your dad has a huge house that he never lives in. I'd much rather want to stay there than Hogwarts all the time."
"He likes Hogwarts because he can get work done while he's there."
"Doesn't he have a potion's lab at his own house?"
"I don't know. I've never been there."
Puzzlement grew on Draco's face.
"I lived in Canada almost my whole life," said Harry quickly.
"Oh," said Draco, as realization hit him.
Before Draco could ask any more questions, Severus found Harry thankfully.
"Lucius needs to see us," said Severus as he looked at Draco. "Draco."
"Hello Professor Snape," said Draco. "Having a nice night?"
"A blast," said Severus sarcastically as he led Harry away. It had been a while since he heard his father take that sort of tone with anyone.
"What does Malfoy need us for?" asked Harry as Severus led him towards the end of the ballroom where the party was taking place.
"I don't know," said Severus as he again wrapped his arm around Harry's shoulder. "Whatever it is, it cannot be good. Here, take this."
Severus pulled out a potion vial with an inky blue potion in it and handed it to Harry.
"What is this for?" asked Harry as he took the vial.
"It just a precaution. Just take it. Quick."
Harry looked up at his father once more before stopping and uncorking the bottle. He downed it with one gulp and handed the empty vial back to Severus. A warm sensation flooded over his body. He went to ask his father what the potion was when Lucius interrupted him.
"Severus and Alex, follow me please."
Severus held Harry a little closer as they followed Lucius through a door in the corner of the room. It led down a darkened hallway that had stairs at the end. They walked down the stairs and through another door. This door led to another darkened hallway. Lucius led them down it and stopped at the door at the end of it.
"Through here," said Lucius as he opened the door. Severus looked at him for a few moments before walking through, holding Harry with a death grip at his side. Only only a small fire burning in the fireplace lighted the room. Harry turned quickly as the door was shut behind them. He turned forward again, still not able to see anything but the burning fire. Suddenly, a shadow in the corner moved, startling Harry and causing him to breathe very quickly. Then, a cold voice spoke, causing Harry's blood to run cold.
"Hello Alexander Snape. My name is Lord Voldemort."
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Well, from all those wonderful reviews (over 400? It can't be!) I know that people are actually reading this and want me to continue. SO I AM! YEAH! I've outlined the rest of this fic and so it's really easy to write now. I'm thinking it has five chapters left.
I hope you all like this new chapter. I wanted to get it out as soon as possible so I responded to a few reviews below. But just so you all know, I thank you thank you thank you for the reviews.
Responses:
Enahma: It's Ms. Penpunk.
Daxed: I think you must have misunderstood my "rant" last chapter. I know who Severitus is and her fic. Mine is classified as a challenge fic. I was talking about someone accusing me of copying another Severitus challenge fic, not Severitus herself. Hope that clears up everything.
Luna: Same reason I didn't share my theories with anyone else. They almost put me in a mental hospital.
Pure Venom: When he looked in the mirror, he was seeing what he desired. He desired who he thought was his family, which would have been the Potters. The mirror doesn't show truth. Does that help? Harry and Hermione hints? I don't remember putting anything like that in.
Catherine: I know who Severitus is. I've read her fics and this is a challenge fic. I explained it in another response further up. Thanks for the help though. I probably should have made my rant a little clearer.
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To everyone else (and there's a lot of you) I thoroughly enjoyed all of your predictions for the 5th book. They were all really creative and some I thought would have fit in the book nicely.
Personally, I liked the book. Not as much as PoA (my favorite), but I liked it more than Goblet of Fire. The end was so SAD. I was really, really, really sad. My favorite character is dead now. *sniff sniff*
Other than that, I liked it. Wait!
Poll time!
For those of you who have read the book:
What did you think of it?
How do you rate it among the other books? (1st, 2nd, 3rd favorite?)
Don't forget to tell me what you think of the chapter. I made it a long one for you all so I hope you like it. Happy reading!
Penpunk