Forgive the delay, Sirius was not cooperating.
I'm surprised no one made comment on Sirius's last though in the previous chapter before he went to Dumbledore. More so at the lack of reaction to Severus's renouncement. You all must be very accepting.
__________________________________________________
Chapter 25
__________________________________________
It had been a several of weeks since Snape's return and for the most part everything was quiet. Quiet in the strange deathly sort of way. In Potions no one dared to breathe in the wrong direction without fear of bringing the wrath of the Potions Master down around their ears. It seemed no year was safe. And Dumbledore hadn't seen any necessity in reigning in his Potions Professor.
No year was safe and neither was any House. Granted Slytherin suffered the least, they too recognized the ill disposition of their Head and at an early stage began to tread lightly whenever their Head of House stalked into view.
But it was without parallel that Gryffindor House captured the bulk of ill will. Most especially the inseparable trio, consisting of Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and above all Harry Potter. It was shocking at the number of slight transgressions, ones that any normal teacher would over look, that Snape looked to take points. But never once did he blow up. Not even when Neville blew his umpteenth cauldron. Not even when Harry had foolishly demanded to know, after one detention, why Snape was being such an ass.
Snape had definitely not been happy about that. But he never once yelled. In his quietest and deadliest whispers, he answered, "I'm sure you already formulated an answer to that. Twenty points from Gryffindor. Now get out."
Harry never looked back. Though if he had, he would not have been surprised to find a twisted smile on the Professor's face. But he wasn't ready to dare and find out.
Plus he knew that his godfather and Professor Lupin knew what was going on. They just wouldn't tell him. He was bright enough to know something had happened that night Snape returned. And it did not affect only Snape. Sirius was also quieter than normal. In all of his visits to Remus and Sirius, his godfather was reluctant to speak on any topic related to Snape. Why? Harry couldn't puzzle it out. But there was something he had missed. And he was determined to find out.
There hadn't been anything normal with his friends since Snape's return. Evan had return, but he was likely to avoid any discussion revolving around Sirius. Remus wasn't apt to talk about anything that Sirius refused. And Sirius refused. Hermione and Ron weren't much better. They were concerned, but not fanatic. In fact they had been spending more time together than in the past. Granted he spent much of his free time with Sirius, he couldn't blame them.
* Oh, will you stop obsessing with it and go talk to him. * Harry started as Evan popped into his head. But it was more the topic that surprised him. Evan never brought up Sirius. * That is because you deliberate over it far too often. *
* And you want me to just talk to him. That seems to be your normal advice. *
* Yes. Usually it is the best advice. *
* I have tried to talk to him. He just ignores the question or says it was none of my business. *
* Surely you have noticed that he wants to say something. The only reason he doesn't is the werewolf. *
* And why did you never tell me. *
* What? *
* I know you heard me. Why did you never tell me this before? *
* Uh. Well. I was hoping you'd figure it out yourself. *
* You didn't intend to tell me now, did you. *
* No, not really. * Was him or did Evan sound nervous and slightly guilty.
* What do you know about this mess? *
* I should not have said anything about this. I wouldn't have if I had known you would demand answers such as those. I know what I know from your mind. *
* Come on, we're going to visit Sirius. *
* What? I am not going. *
* Yes you are. You suggested it and I want your opinion on the matter. *
* I'm hardly the one to seek out for an opinion. *
* Why not? You've studied humans for who knows how long. You should understand what is going on better than any of us. You aren't bias are you? *
* No. *
* Fine, then. Let's go. *
Harry suddenly felt more energized now that he was on his way to solve this question. But he wasn't entirely sure he wanted to know. Sirius probably had a good reason to keep it secret. But he was determined to know what happened that night.
* * * * * * *
With the Christmas holidays fast approaching and the Ministry making uncontested demands to fortify the wards and every unessential personnel were to evacuate Hogwarts for the duration of the break. And the essential personnel were limited to the Headmaster and Deputy Headmistress. And Dumbledore only had a few members of the staff and one student he needed to find a place for.
He had asked those particular wizards to his office today and was waiting for them to arrive. Severus was due within the hour. It was perhaps the most unfair assignment he had to force upon the man. When all was said and done, he was being kicked out of his sanctuary without any preparation or reimbursement. Not to mention immediate medical care should he fall on the ill will of Voldemort.
But at least Severus had another abode with equal protection of Hogwarts if not more wards to out do the school's desire to be hidden. Remus and Sirius didn't have that safe haven. As for Harry, returning him to the Dursleys was impossible as his relatives refused to have the boy over the winter break. Hopefully all that could be mended.
"Ah, come in Severus." He needed to speak with his Potions Master before he could enact his plans for the winter. "How has your research on for a solution to Sirius's affliction?" He had been pushing for an antidote ever since Severus returned. Possibly harder than he would had the incident of that night no occurred.
"Any potion created to dissolve the memory will be ineffective so long as the curse remains. The best option without the counter curse is to slowly break down the potion and hope it is enough for Black to break the barriers himself."
"Was there any information in your books concerning a counter curse?"
"No, sir. I never thought there would be a counter curse so easily found. If one does exist." Severus spoke in his normal monotone used to convey any sort of information. Sitting directly across from the Headmaster, Severus looked behind Dumbledore's face, avoiding eye contact. A normal motion for the younger wizard, exaggerated upon the sever dressing down following the incident.
"Then you will be able to use the holidays to research in the libraries of Ciara Aloysius and perfect an antidote." Severus nodded curtly.
"You do understand what the Ministry is planning, Headmaster."
"Of course, the re-warding of Hogwarts," he said pleasantly, already knowing the real objective.
"And possible sabotage of their efforts," Severus stated firmly. Without a doubt the man suspected a great deal and not without cause. "Not to mention the information Fudge's Aurors will report straight into the ear of Malfoy. Headmaster, it is the perfect cover for the Dark Lord to gain the information you do not trust me with." Severus was bitter, there was no denying that tone. Bitter that he had to leave his solitude for some ridiculous endeavor. Bitter because a good deal of the wards were his handiwork and were going to be torn apart by 'bumbling fools,' to quote him. And bitter because he wasn't in a position where he could have the knowledge of the wards of Hogwarts. Dumbledore was aware of the good it would do should Severus know. His nighttime wanderings would be more productive.
"I am aware of those possibilities, Severus. However, I cannot deny the Ministry entry based on possibilities. While trying to keep good faith with the Minister. I have requested a few of my own for this detail, which is reasonable. They will watch what is done and alter anything that could threaten the integrity of the wards. And of course you have leave to prowl the hallways searching for sabotage on your return." The Potions Master narrowed his eyes in annoyance but didn't respond.
"Now, as for your stay in Ciara Aloysius I must request that you allow others to remain over the break."
"No! I will do no such thing. There is a reason Ciara Aloysius has become a legend and invisible. It is precisely because the only ones who visit are direct family and dead men."
"I realize this. But it is the safest thing for them." Dumbledore could see the thoughts race across Snape's mind. He knew exactly who he was going to be stuck with and could care less about their safety. Or so he would have you believe. "It is because Ciara Aloysius is not thought to exist that makes it so."
"I refuse to allow them in my family home."
"I warned you of this Dumbledore. Forcing this issue is no good."
The portraits were now voice-fully awake and clamoring loudly against the one who spoke. "Phineas, no one asked for your opinion." The former Headmaster Armando Dippet rang above the others.
"Perhaps someone should. Many of these issues could be smoothed over."
Dumbledore cleared his throat and gained the attention of the portraits. "Now is not the time for this argument." It was one of Phineas's favorites. One more reason why he only grudgingly listened to the present Headmaster. He wasn't sought out for advice, so he gave it at the most inopportune moment.
The entrance of three others interrupted. "Perfect timing. Please have a seat. I believe the issue of winter break." Dumbledore studied the glare Severus shot at the three Gryffindors. Hatred was prominent, but there was something else. Something that he couldn't identify, that alone had no precedent. And that look was mainly focused on Sirius Black. But it was the look of absolute hatred on Harry's face that shook the Headmaster to his old bones. The boy had learned something concerning the Potions Professor. And it wasn't hard to guess what.
But it was Remus who understood the solution of the issue before it was spoken. And he was the only one who hadn't voiced angered on the fact that they were going to spend Christmas at Snape's mansion. Since Severus's arguments had already been shot down, he remained standing in intense fury.
"Sirius, it is the safest place for all of you. Most especially you and Harry."
It was Severus's new objection startled everyone. "Why can they not go to Black's home? Grimmauld Place?" And by Sirius's expression, he was surprised to be agreeing with his bitter enemy.
"It is currently under high traffic and is a dangerous target for both the Ministry and Voldemort. Even with the special precautions, there are people who cannot be trusted who know it exists and where it is. Ciara Aloysius has none of those problems."
"Except that I refuse."
"I have already decided this. You are required to leave the school and I refuse to put any of you in a more dangerous situation when I can avoid it." Severus clinched his jaw as a response. "There is another issue I wish to discuss concerning Harry's link with Voldemort." The others, sensing the closure of the first matter, quieted. "Sybil came to me a few days ago, saying she had been discussing a possible way for Harry to control the link on his own. It seems both Sybil and Irvan agree that Occlumency holds promise. I agree with this possibility, therefore I've asked Severus to begin teaching Harry Occlumency over the break. Provided of course one of you is present."
Severus had not agreed readily to this. They had had a spectacular argument when Dumbledore and Irvan brought it to Severus's attention. Smartly Irvan had remained aloof once he mentioned the idea. Only when directly asked did Irvan reveal his motivation for having Harry learn Occlumency. Once Harry becomes self-sufficient the vampire would be able to finally be not needed and could live the way he wanted. Of course the vampire knew that would be impossible, but he tried.
"Will Occlumency do the same as Irvan's interference?" Remus asked reasonably. The werewolf had always been logical.
"It should. Harry, it will take a great deal of studying to master Occlumency." Harry nodded. "Very good. Now, Severus will have a port key ready tomorrow afternoon once the rest of the students have left for the train. Any further questions?" When none were forthcoming. Dumbledore dismissed Severus so he could learn what Sirius had confided to his godson. He speculated it was that incident that caused the base of their arguments against Snape.
"Is it safe to assume, Harry, that you know from Sirius what occurred the night Professor Snape returned?" Sirius looked sheepish. Remus embarrassed. And Harry was still radiated hatred. Dumbledore had to quell that emotion or the stay at Ciara Aloysius would be unbearable. "You do understand that justice in this matter must done quietly. I have not forgotten that incident. Nor have I dealt with this lightly. I must ask you both not to seek revenge, for this was not premeditated nor out of hatred."
"So we're just going to spend a couple of weeks with him as if none of this happened? Who's to say he won't snap again?"
"After that first night, I have helped him rebuild what he hid from himself. I am sure he no longer has hastily constructed barriers that would cause damage." Dumbledore looked over his half moon glasses at Sirius. The framed convict was now quivering in rage, but did well to contain it. If this was how Sirius reacted to an attempted on his life, how much more extreme would the reaction be once he learned of his captivity and potential use? "I do realize how difficult this is for you. However, I still have need him."
"We understand, Professor," Remus answered. "And I'm sure we can handle the short time until the school's next term."
"I believe you will be able to, Remus. I also believe Sirius and Harry will be able to once the two of you can temporary set aside your hatred. I can assure you Severus is in no position to cause harm," he said it with such in conviction, none of them were eager to bring up another objection.
"Now, you will be able to fire me whenever you need. Either myself or Minerva. You will not be isolated there by any means. Not to mention owls. I wish you a Happy Christmas and an enjoyable New Year."
His Gryffindors filed out of the circular office in a very subdued mode. They would survive. It wouldn't be entirely enjoyable, but it would be safe. He couldn't send them to 12 Grimmauld Place, not with the possibility of a hidden informant. Just after Arabella's death, he had set Moody on investigating who it could be. The former Auror suspected the person to have unlimited access to Grimmauld Place. Putting Sirius and Harry there would be potentially placing them in Voldemort's hands. And he was unable to tell them the true reason until they had the counter curse.
He hoped Severus found a way soon. He disliked keeping them in the dark concerning their own fates.
* * * * * * * *
Harry woke that morning with a sense of dread. He had told Hermione and Ron where he was staying and got their sympathy and promises of sending a good Christmas to him. He felt better with their assurances that he'll be with Remus and Sirius and those two would not let Snape hassle him.
He walked with them to the Great Hall where they had to separate. Ron and Hermione to the Hogwarts Express to go home to their respected families. And Harry to wait in the Hall for Remus and Snuffles and eventually Snape with the port key.
"Hello, Harry. You're quite early."
"Professor Lupin. I thought you would take longer. Where's Snuffles?"
"He's coming. He was being picky about what to bring. Thought I'd come and keep you company. Exploding Snap?"
"Sounds like a plan." So he spent the rest of the morning playing cards. Snuffles came up when the House Elves gave them a makeshift lunch. They were still waiting for Snape. Evan had taken residence on his shoulder, watching the game, enthralled. He had made a comment on that he had never seen this particular game, asking Harry for the rules as they went along.
"Black, it will be easier for the port key to work if you were a man," Snape sneered as he entered, carrying a larger metal ring.
"That's a lovely greeting," Sirius snapped, transforming.
"Just take the port key," he said jerking his arm out for the three of them to touch the ring. Oddly he recalled, from the book Hermione showed him, that metals could retain a magical memory for the destination if used multiple times. He bet Snape use that ring whenever he wanted to return to his home.
Feeling that familiar tug at the navel brought back ill memories of Cedric and the Triwizard's Tournament. But he wasn't terrified now that he knew how port keys were created. And if Snape created it and was going to use it, then they were all going to end up in the same place. While he didn't trust Snape, he did know, however tenuous, that Snape would not risk Dumbledore's wrath by taking all of them to Voldemort.
He landed facing a dense forest. He released the port key leaving it for another to take care of, and turned around, exploring his new location. And found himself just shy of the doorstep of a huge ivy dominated stone structure. It was a castle, likely built during the medieval era, but obviously had earlier origins and many later alterations and additions.
As any wizard building much of the structure was sustained by magic, but what surprised Harry was how muggle it all looked. Studying the make of the castle he discovered it to be made of normal stone and mortar.
______________________________________________
AN: and the fun begins. Let me know what you think.
I'm surprised no one made comment on Sirius's last though in the previous chapter before he went to Dumbledore. More so at the lack of reaction to Severus's renouncement. You all must be very accepting.
__________________________________________________
Chapter 25
__________________________________________
It had been a several of weeks since Snape's return and for the most part everything was quiet. Quiet in the strange deathly sort of way. In Potions no one dared to breathe in the wrong direction without fear of bringing the wrath of the Potions Master down around their ears. It seemed no year was safe. And Dumbledore hadn't seen any necessity in reigning in his Potions Professor.
No year was safe and neither was any House. Granted Slytherin suffered the least, they too recognized the ill disposition of their Head and at an early stage began to tread lightly whenever their Head of House stalked into view.
But it was without parallel that Gryffindor House captured the bulk of ill will. Most especially the inseparable trio, consisting of Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and above all Harry Potter. It was shocking at the number of slight transgressions, ones that any normal teacher would over look, that Snape looked to take points. But never once did he blow up. Not even when Neville blew his umpteenth cauldron. Not even when Harry had foolishly demanded to know, after one detention, why Snape was being such an ass.
Snape had definitely not been happy about that. But he never once yelled. In his quietest and deadliest whispers, he answered, "I'm sure you already formulated an answer to that. Twenty points from Gryffindor. Now get out."
Harry never looked back. Though if he had, he would not have been surprised to find a twisted smile on the Professor's face. But he wasn't ready to dare and find out.
Plus he knew that his godfather and Professor Lupin knew what was going on. They just wouldn't tell him. He was bright enough to know something had happened that night Snape returned. And it did not affect only Snape. Sirius was also quieter than normal. In all of his visits to Remus and Sirius, his godfather was reluctant to speak on any topic related to Snape. Why? Harry couldn't puzzle it out. But there was something he had missed. And he was determined to find out.
There hadn't been anything normal with his friends since Snape's return. Evan had return, but he was likely to avoid any discussion revolving around Sirius. Remus wasn't apt to talk about anything that Sirius refused. And Sirius refused. Hermione and Ron weren't much better. They were concerned, but not fanatic. In fact they had been spending more time together than in the past. Granted he spent much of his free time with Sirius, he couldn't blame them.
* Oh, will you stop obsessing with it and go talk to him. * Harry started as Evan popped into his head. But it was more the topic that surprised him. Evan never brought up Sirius. * That is because you deliberate over it far too often. *
* And you want me to just talk to him. That seems to be your normal advice. *
* Yes. Usually it is the best advice. *
* I have tried to talk to him. He just ignores the question or says it was none of my business. *
* Surely you have noticed that he wants to say something. The only reason he doesn't is the werewolf. *
* And why did you never tell me. *
* What? *
* I know you heard me. Why did you never tell me this before? *
* Uh. Well. I was hoping you'd figure it out yourself. *
* You didn't intend to tell me now, did you. *
* No, not really. * Was him or did Evan sound nervous and slightly guilty.
* What do you know about this mess? *
* I should not have said anything about this. I wouldn't have if I had known you would demand answers such as those. I know what I know from your mind. *
* Come on, we're going to visit Sirius. *
* What? I am not going. *
* Yes you are. You suggested it and I want your opinion on the matter. *
* I'm hardly the one to seek out for an opinion. *
* Why not? You've studied humans for who knows how long. You should understand what is going on better than any of us. You aren't bias are you? *
* No. *
* Fine, then. Let's go. *
Harry suddenly felt more energized now that he was on his way to solve this question. But he wasn't entirely sure he wanted to know. Sirius probably had a good reason to keep it secret. But he was determined to know what happened that night.
* * * * * * *
With the Christmas holidays fast approaching and the Ministry making uncontested demands to fortify the wards and every unessential personnel were to evacuate Hogwarts for the duration of the break. And the essential personnel were limited to the Headmaster and Deputy Headmistress. And Dumbledore only had a few members of the staff and one student he needed to find a place for.
He had asked those particular wizards to his office today and was waiting for them to arrive. Severus was due within the hour. It was perhaps the most unfair assignment he had to force upon the man. When all was said and done, he was being kicked out of his sanctuary without any preparation or reimbursement. Not to mention immediate medical care should he fall on the ill will of Voldemort.
But at least Severus had another abode with equal protection of Hogwarts if not more wards to out do the school's desire to be hidden. Remus and Sirius didn't have that safe haven. As for Harry, returning him to the Dursleys was impossible as his relatives refused to have the boy over the winter break. Hopefully all that could be mended.
"Ah, come in Severus." He needed to speak with his Potions Master before he could enact his plans for the winter. "How has your research on for a solution to Sirius's affliction?" He had been pushing for an antidote ever since Severus returned. Possibly harder than he would had the incident of that night no occurred.
"Any potion created to dissolve the memory will be ineffective so long as the curse remains. The best option without the counter curse is to slowly break down the potion and hope it is enough for Black to break the barriers himself."
"Was there any information in your books concerning a counter curse?"
"No, sir. I never thought there would be a counter curse so easily found. If one does exist." Severus spoke in his normal monotone used to convey any sort of information. Sitting directly across from the Headmaster, Severus looked behind Dumbledore's face, avoiding eye contact. A normal motion for the younger wizard, exaggerated upon the sever dressing down following the incident.
"Then you will be able to use the holidays to research in the libraries of Ciara Aloysius and perfect an antidote." Severus nodded curtly.
"You do understand what the Ministry is planning, Headmaster."
"Of course, the re-warding of Hogwarts," he said pleasantly, already knowing the real objective.
"And possible sabotage of their efforts," Severus stated firmly. Without a doubt the man suspected a great deal and not without cause. "Not to mention the information Fudge's Aurors will report straight into the ear of Malfoy. Headmaster, it is the perfect cover for the Dark Lord to gain the information you do not trust me with." Severus was bitter, there was no denying that tone. Bitter that he had to leave his solitude for some ridiculous endeavor. Bitter because a good deal of the wards were his handiwork and were going to be torn apart by 'bumbling fools,' to quote him. And bitter because he wasn't in a position where he could have the knowledge of the wards of Hogwarts. Dumbledore was aware of the good it would do should Severus know. His nighttime wanderings would be more productive.
"I am aware of those possibilities, Severus. However, I cannot deny the Ministry entry based on possibilities. While trying to keep good faith with the Minister. I have requested a few of my own for this detail, which is reasonable. They will watch what is done and alter anything that could threaten the integrity of the wards. And of course you have leave to prowl the hallways searching for sabotage on your return." The Potions Master narrowed his eyes in annoyance but didn't respond.
"Now, as for your stay in Ciara Aloysius I must request that you allow others to remain over the break."
"No! I will do no such thing. There is a reason Ciara Aloysius has become a legend and invisible. It is precisely because the only ones who visit are direct family and dead men."
"I realize this. But it is the safest thing for them." Dumbledore could see the thoughts race across Snape's mind. He knew exactly who he was going to be stuck with and could care less about their safety. Or so he would have you believe. "It is because Ciara Aloysius is not thought to exist that makes it so."
"I refuse to allow them in my family home."
"I warned you of this Dumbledore. Forcing this issue is no good."
The portraits were now voice-fully awake and clamoring loudly against the one who spoke. "Phineas, no one asked for your opinion." The former Headmaster Armando Dippet rang above the others.
"Perhaps someone should. Many of these issues could be smoothed over."
Dumbledore cleared his throat and gained the attention of the portraits. "Now is not the time for this argument." It was one of Phineas's favorites. One more reason why he only grudgingly listened to the present Headmaster. He wasn't sought out for advice, so he gave it at the most inopportune moment.
The entrance of three others interrupted. "Perfect timing. Please have a seat. I believe the issue of winter break." Dumbledore studied the glare Severus shot at the three Gryffindors. Hatred was prominent, but there was something else. Something that he couldn't identify, that alone had no precedent. And that look was mainly focused on Sirius Black. But it was the look of absolute hatred on Harry's face that shook the Headmaster to his old bones. The boy had learned something concerning the Potions Professor. And it wasn't hard to guess what.
But it was Remus who understood the solution of the issue before it was spoken. And he was the only one who hadn't voiced angered on the fact that they were going to spend Christmas at Snape's mansion. Since Severus's arguments had already been shot down, he remained standing in intense fury.
"Sirius, it is the safest place for all of you. Most especially you and Harry."
It was Severus's new objection startled everyone. "Why can they not go to Black's home? Grimmauld Place?" And by Sirius's expression, he was surprised to be agreeing with his bitter enemy.
"It is currently under high traffic and is a dangerous target for both the Ministry and Voldemort. Even with the special precautions, there are people who cannot be trusted who know it exists and where it is. Ciara Aloysius has none of those problems."
"Except that I refuse."
"I have already decided this. You are required to leave the school and I refuse to put any of you in a more dangerous situation when I can avoid it." Severus clinched his jaw as a response. "There is another issue I wish to discuss concerning Harry's link with Voldemort." The others, sensing the closure of the first matter, quieted. "Sybil came to me a few days ago, saying she had been discussing a possible way for Harry to control the link on his own. It seems both Sybil and Irvan agree that Occlumency holds promise. I agree with this possibility, therefore I've asked Severus to begin teaching Harry Occlumency over the break. Provided of course one of you is present."
Severus had not agreed readily to this. They had had a spectacular argument when Dumbledore and Irvan brought it to Severus's attention. Smartly Irvan had remained aloof once he mentioned the idea. Only when directly asked did Irvan reveal his motivation for having Harry learn Occlumency. Once Harry becomes self-sufficient the vampire would be able to finally be not needed and could live the way he wanted. Of course the vampire knew that would be impossible, but he tried.
"Will Occlumency do the same as Irvan's interference?" Remus asked reasonably. The werewolf had always been logical.
"It should. Harry, it will take a great deal of studying to master Occlumency." Harry nodded. "Very good. Now, Severus will have a port key ready tomorrow afternoon once the rest of the students have left for the train. Any further questions?" When none were forthcoming. Dumbledore dismissed Severus so he could learn what Sirius had confided to his godson. He speculated it was that incident that caused the base of their arguments against Snape.
"Is it safe to assume, Harry, that you know from Sirius what occurred the night Professor Snape returned?" Sirius looked sheepish. Remus embarrassed. And Harry was still radiated hatred. Dumbledore had to quell that emotion or the stay at Ciara Aloysius would be unbearable. "You do understand that justice in this matter must done quietly. I have not forgotten that incident. Nor have I dealt with this lightly. I must ask you both not to seek revenge, for this was not premeditated nor out of hatred."
"So we're just going to spend a couple of weeks with him as if none of this happened? Who's to say he won't snap again?"
"After that first night, I have helped him rebuild what he hid from himself. I am sure he no longer has hastily constructed barriers that would cause damage." Dumbledore looked over his half moon glasses at Sirius. The framed convict was now quivering in rage, but did well to contain it. If this was how Sirius reacted to an attempted on his life, how much more extreme would the reaction be once he learned of his captivity and potential use? "I do realize how difficult this is for you. However, I still have need him."
"We understand, Professor," Remus answered. "And I'm sure we can handle the short time until the school's next term."
"I believe you will be able to, Remus. I also believe Sirius and Harry will be able to once the two of you can temporary set aside your hatred. I can assure you Severus is in no position to cause harm," he said it with such in conviction, none of them were eager to bring up another objection.
"Now, you will be able to fire me whenever you need. Either myself or Minerva. You will not be isolated there by any means. Not to mention owls. I wish you a Happy Christmas and an enjoyable New Year."
His Gryffindors filed out of the circular office in a very subdued mode. They would survive. It wouldn't be entirely enjoyable, but it would be safe. He couldn't send them to 12 Grimmauld Place, not with the possibility of a hidden informant. Just after Arabella's death, he had set Moody on investigating who it could be. The former Auror suspected the person to have unlimited access to Grimmauld Place. Putting Sirius and Harry there would be potentially placing them in Voldemort's hands. And he was unable to tell them the true reason until they had the counter curse.
He hoped Severus found a way soon. He disliked keeping them in the dark concerning their own fates.
* * * * * * * *
Harry woke that morning with a sense of dread. He had told Hermione and Ron where he was staying and got their sympathy and promises of sending a good Christmas to him. He felt better with their assurances that he'll be with Remus and Sirius and those two would not let Snape hassle him.
He walked with them to the Great Hall where they had to separate. Ron and Hermione to the Hogwarts Express to go home to their respected families. And Harry to wait in the Hall for Remus and Snuffles and eventually Snape with the port key.
"Hello, Harry. You're quite early."
"Professor Lupin. I thought you would take longer. Where's Snuffles?"
"He's coming. He was being picky about what to bring. Thought I'd come and keep you company. Exploding Snap?"
"Sounds like a plan." So he spent the rest of the morning playing cards. Snuffles came up when the House Elves gave them a makeshift lunch. They were still waiting for Snape. Evan had taken residence on his shoulder, watching the game, enthralled. He had made a comment on that he had never seen this particular game, asking Harry for the rules as they went along.
"Black, it will be easier for the port key to work if you were a man," Snape sneered as he entered, carrying a larger metal ring.
"That's a lovely greeting," Sirius snapped, transforming.
"Just take the port key," he said jerking his arm out for the three of them to touch the ring. Oddly he recalled, from the book Hermione showed him, that metals could retain a magical memory for the destination if used multiple times. He bet Snape use that ring whenever he wanted to return to his home.
Feeling that familiar tug at the navel brought back ill memories of Cedric and the Triwizard's Tournament. But he wasn't terrified now that he knew how port keys were created. And if Snape created it and was going to use it, then they were all going to end up in the same place. While he didn't trust Snape, he did know, however tenuous, that Snape would not risk Dumbledore's wrath by taking all of them to Voldemort.
He landed facing a dense forest. He released the port key leaving it for another to take care of, and turned around, exploring his new location. And found himself just shy of the doorstep of a huge ivy dominated stone structure. It was a castle, likely built during the medieval era, but obviously had earlier origins and many later alterations and additions.
As any wizard building much of the structure was sustained by magic, but what surprised Harry was how muggle it all looked. Studying the make of the castle he discovered it to be made of normal stone and mortar.
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AN: and the fun begins. Let me know what you think.