AN: This chapter is to set up many things I wish to include later. First and foremost, the arrival of the Weasleys and that Bill and Charlie will be of great assistance. Second, Irvan has a far more complicated history that will be a center of the sequel "Something More" (Corny I know, but somehow it fits) and a prequel for Irvan and the Founders called "Something Else." Thirdly, show how they will find a way to help Sirius, can't have him like this forever (though that would be fun).
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Chapter 31
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For some of the occupants of the mansion, it was the second time they were awoken to a clamorous morning. However, instead of the ruckus of animals, they were treated to the gift of gab all excited teenagers were capable of. And this instance was punctuated by the fact that said teenagers were Weasleys.
"A couple last rude remarks and Totti will show you around," Professor Irvan said to them once the portkey dropped them off just a rather large round room, devoid of any obstructions for the safety of portkey passengers.
Bill was having difficulties believing this _Professor_ was merely a Professor who had a strong friendship with Professor Snape. He trusted the letter penned by Headmaster Dumbledore. And he believed his younger bothers and sister about the man teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts and Potions. But, and he was certain Charlie and his father agreed, that this man was also something completely different than who he seemed to be.
"First off, your presence is not desired here, and I only brought you here as a favor for Mrs. Weasley. Second, you are not to go anywhere that is not specifically shown to you as a room where you may enter. Now if you will follow me."
Bill thought he saw a glint of silver in the man's black eyes as Irvan turned sharply for the exit. Ginny, Ron, and Fred and George followed first. All babbling incessantly, though a bit more quietly now, about being inside Snape's home.
"What are you thinking, Bill?" Charlie asked as they left the portkey room.
"I'm thinking that he's not human."
"Is that all? I thought you would be more interested in the wards engulfing this place, while I was the one worry about whether or not our host was human."
"Those did catch my attention. What do think, Dad?"
Arthur Weasley held a serious expression on his face, one of the few times his musings cause such a outward visage. "It is not who Irvan is, nor where we are that worries me. It is why your mother was asked to come here in the first place and why she needs to stay so long that Professor Dumbledore wants us to be here."
Bill frowned. He had been the one to greet the Headmaster at five in the morning. He called for his mother with little thought, other than it involved the Order in some respect. But he did not expect it to keep his mother for too terribly long. Obviously he was wrong.
What if it was Harry that Dumbledore had needed to assist? Everyone had to evacuate the school for the re-warding. He knew Harry was having increased trouble with his dreams, but Bill had thought that Dumbledore had found a solution for that. How ever temporary.
"RON!" Relief flooded though him as Harry's joyous yell caught everyone's attention. "What are you doing here? What are any of you doing here?"
"They are here for the holidays, for as long as Mrs. Weasley must remain here," Irvan answered first. "If you would accompany Totti and the younger Weasleys to their rooms, I'm sure you wouldn't pass up an opportunity to explain what you are doing here." As simple as that, Irvan dismissed the lot of them.
"Professor Irvan?" It was Ginny.
"Yes, Miss Weasley?"
"Thank you," the little redhead blurted out in one breath before running after the older boys.
"That was unexpected," said Bill's father.
"Yes, it most certainly was." Irvan's answer sounded slightly odd, but Bill could not place it. "If you gentlemen would follow me," the man's voice returned to his normal blank tones.
Together with his father and Charlie, Bill followed Irvan up a flight of the grand staircase and though a long corridor filled with faded tapestries to the only open door. Out of which he could hear hushed voices.
"No, I still can't see it, Professor. Not even when I know what I'm looking for." His mother sounded worried. Who was she talking about? He had seen Harry, so it couldn't be him. He was fairly certain Harry was going to stay with Remus Lupin over the holidays, but Bill had not seen the werewolf yet. Was it possible?
"I told you before," Lupin's voice, "I know what did it, but I don't have a clue as to how it did that, nor if it is possible to even see what it did." Thankfully the werewolf was still there
"You said it was vampires." A new voice. Bill thought it was Sirius Black, the man he met over the summer during one of the Order's meetings. Dumbledore had kept them locked in the room while he explained the details. Surprise was the obvious reaction, as was fear and anger. No one had been happy about the reactions, but at least no one attempted to curse the escaped convict. "Those spells usually wear off soon after. Why's this one being such a bother?" Sirius did not sound as though he cared about the problem, only about the abnormality.
He and Charlie exchanged glances. Vampiric magic tended to become very complicated stuff once you got past the basic explanations. Bill had studied what was available. Which was not much by comparison with other creature magicks. But why would they be worried about vampiric magic?
That's when it hit him. The only person he they had not met in this house, was the owner, one Severus Snape. If the Potions Professor was the one who was ill, than it stood to reason that they would be allowed in despite the fact they were not wanted.
The conversation did not resume as they walked into the room. As Bill had labeled, Sirius, Remus and his mother were within, along side Headmaster Dumbledore. All of whom appeared to be sharing a pot of tea in the small sitting room. The Headmaster rose to greet them, "Ah, gentlemen, I trust the trip went safely." Bill thought he heard Irvan mutter something about a 'bloody portkey.' "Please come sit, I fear there is much to explain."
"It's about Severus, isn't it?" Mr. Weasley stated. At a questioning eyebrow from his wife, he explained further, "He's the only one not present. And seeing as how this is his house..."
"Yes, it is Severus. Currently he is asleep..."
"Unconscious would be the word I would use," Irvan interrupted the Headmaster curtly. "I thought you would have the decency to be direct."
"Would you prefer to explain events?" Dumbledore asked, sounding innocent. When Irvan did not respond, the Headmaster returned his attention to the new arrivals. "A couple of nights ago, Severus returned from what we assume was a Death Eater raid. Irvan deduced that most of the curses that Molly has removed were from Aurors. It wasn't until later that he discovered the reason we could not understand why Molly could not heal the ripped muscle tissue was because of a curse laid down by a vampire."
Bill waited for more, but none seemed forthcoming. "But how would you know how to spot a vampiric curse? They are near impossible for a wizard to detect and almost equally impossible for a wizard to correct."
All eyes went towards Irvan. "That would be perhaps because I am a vampire." This was only a shock to three of them. "Now, part of the reason I agreed to bring you here, was because you and your brother, Charlie, have encountered vampiric curses before. I am hoping you might be able to remove this curse to allow Mrs. Weasley to heal the muscles. It would be easier on Severus if wizard's magic was used for this instead of vampire's."
"Why would that be?" Remus asked.
"It is the nature of vampiric magic to be rather insidious. The same applies to beneficial uses as well as malevolent ones. Our magic is only meant to work with us, not normal humans. Or at least the magic used against Severus."
"What about what you did to me?" Sirius piped up.
"I was merely affecting the area around you, not you yourself."
"No, the other time. With the whole speeding me up and stuff." Bill had no idea as to what Sirius was talking about, nor as to what happened on either of these incidents.
"Believe me, you were not unscathed. You were confused and disoriented for a full ten minutes before you began your demands." Was it just his imagination or did Irvan sound pleased about this.
"Master Irvan!" Something small and loud interrupted. "It's Master Severus! He's awake!" A house-elf, of course.
"He's WHAT!" Irvan's reaction was completely unexpected. "He should NOT be awake. Molly, I need you to put him back to sleep until we can remove that curse." He flew into the adjoining room, closely followed by Mrs. Weasley. Bill and the rest of the conversation partners were not far behind.
Snape was still bedridden, but obviously struggling to leave its confines. "The book... chest... must..." The Potions Professor sounded feverish, but Irvan paled and his steps faltered momentarily. "Must... h...master... the chest."
"Molly!"
"It's not responding. Something's blocking me!"
"Shit!" Irvan rushed to the bedside. Snape must have recognized him because his eyes cleared for a brief moment and he declared clearly, "Don't touch me, you leech!" The vampire completely ignored the order and roughly took Snape's head in his hands and uttered a word Bill did not recognized from any language.
"What is it, Irvan?" Dumbledore demanded.
Irvan whirled on the Headmaster. "It's rapidly blocking all attempts at wizarding spells, making it impossible for any of you to do more than irritate it."
Dumbledore managed to combine fatherly worry over Snape with a cold detachment directed at Irvan. " I could discern that; I meant about the book and chest."
The vampire actually growled. "Bill, Charlie, with me." And fled for the hall.
Neither Bill nor his brother hesitated much. Questioning the logic and sanity of the action, but followed nonetheless. Which seemed a reckless venture through a hazardous maze. Once Bill, who prided himself one being able to remember any route he used to get somewhere, was completely lost, the vampire halted before an empty frame.
"Blood and bloody ashes, Salazar! You pick now to go visiting!" So the portrait was of Salazar Slytherin. This house was getting more and more interesting. Irvan rapped sharply on the frame until a tidy man in deep greens moseyed into view. The portrait must have been done while the man was still rather young. He had long black hair, clasped formally at the base of his neck and splayed neatly over his left shoulder. The face was not remarkable, though it was clean shaven. The eyes however, glittered mischievously a brilliant green. "Took your time, I see."
"Now, Irvan, there's no reason to be hostile. You look older, how long has it been?"
"I need the Chest, password: To open dead eyes."
"What happened to pleasant conversation?" Salazar asked as he faded leaving a blank space on the wall. Shortly, a long, ornately carved wooden chest appeared. At first, Bill thought it was glowing because of the spell used to move it, but once it was clear of the wall the soft brown aura remained. This was no ordinary chest.
"Well, take it!"
The brothers did so. Salazar reappear, more concerned now. "What has happened?" he asked stoically.
Irvan again ignored the query. "Take them back to Severus's room." And he was gone.
"I'm starting to worry about that guy, Bill," Charlie said from his side of the chest. "He doesn't seem to be very coherent."
"Don't worry about him," the painting spoke. "He's managed to survive over eighteen hundred years fretting over this family. I'm sure the present one can't be that much of a dilemma. Come now, Irvan wants you back in Severus's room. Though while we are on our way, perhaps you could inform me as to what has happened? Ah. Forgive me, I haven't properly introduced myself. Salazar Slytherin, at your service."
"Bill Weasley."
"Charlie Weasley. Pleasure, I'm sure."
"Weasley? A fairly old name, if I remember correctly. Not the richest, mind, but a truly honest family. Formed after my time, but Snapes have always spoke highly of them."
"Are we talking about the same family?" Charlie objected, for he had the breath to spare at the moment. "I don't know anything about the former Snapes, but the current one sure as hell hates us."
"Severus? I wouldn't go as far as that. He does like to complain about your reckless honesty. Though he has been worried about, what was his name, Percy, I believe. Too impressionable for his own good. And never taking advice from where he should be. Ah, but enough about this. What has Severus gotten himself into this time. He so rarely returns nowadays."
"We're not completely sure. We've only arrived just recently."
"Hmm. Something unusual by Irvan's reactions. Right, here."
"Well, they said something about Snape being attacked by vampires."
"That would get Irvan into a conundrum. Poor fellow never knew how to handle his own race. Left, here. So, Severus has been attacked by vampires. That explains Irvan's protective mood. But that does not explain why he needs the Chest."
"Something about a book."
"A book? Hmm."
Slytherin's lack of explanation only left Bill more confused than before. The Founder must have known about a book that Snape would have put in the chest. Much of the rest of the way passed in relative silence, with the occasional directions when the lack paintings prevented Slytherin to continue with them. Slytherin seemed caught up in thought, as much as a thousand year old portrait could.
"This is as far as I can go. There are no more paintings along this corridor I am able to take. Muggle, I believe. Severus's door is the fifth one past the picture of the swans, at least I'm told it is a picture of swans. Looks more like a inhospitable bog to me. If you remain for any length of time, have Irvan take you some place where we could converse in peace. It has been an incredibly long time since there have been Gryffindors in this house. Godric and the Headmasters get so predicable after spending such a long time with only them to talk to. If circumstances allow tell Severus, I wish him a speedy recovery. And tell Irvan that I will not tolerate him hiding from me."
"That was interesting." Bill felt safe once they were just outside the door.
"You're telling me. You get to tell Snape."
"Will not. Let's just say 'circumstances' do not allow. Think if we kick loud enough someone will answer?" he jested. Fortunately they did not have to. Sirius let them in. The man eyed the chest suspiciously but said nothing. Even in the wizarding world one does not see glowing chest everyday. And the chest itself was not heavy exactly. Just heavy enough and bulky enough to require to people to handle.
Remus was the first one who seemed to recognize the chest and its uniqueness. "That's not what I think it is, is it?"
Even as Bill shrugged his ignorance, a deep voice replied, "Yes, it is." Irvan had returned. Sour as ever. "Put it by the hearth." With the chest gone from his attention, Bill turned to see the vampire standing at the open entrance to the balcony. Holding a long shaft of black glass and a slender blue crystal tube.
"I hope that's not what it looks like," he stated.
"It is," was all the vampire said as he continued to slide the black glass through the blue crystal.
"Will someone please explain to me what is going on here?" Black sounded quite frustrated.
Headmaster Dumbledore, always able to calm any situation, responded to that cry. "We are still learning as to what is happening. Remus, if you would explain what this chest is."
"I never thought it existed. But Irvan said it was. This chest is made of wood from the Tree of Life." That statement alone was enough to silence the room.
Many long moments passed as the information was processed. "Bill," Dumbledore interrupted. "Would you care to explain what Irvan is doing?"
Innocent enough. "The tool he will create with that volcanic glass and blue quartz will be strong enough to level this building if he so much as holds it wrong." Innocent to the unaided eye. "Some records call it the Wizard's Curse because no wizard could ever control the power it possessed. Others call it The Blight. Not sure why it has this name. But one thing is certain, that thing draws its power from the creatures around it, mostly permanent removal of a creature's magic is involved."
"Incorrect." Irvan's voice broke the unspoken spell of silence. "The Blight, however, inappropriate, is a more accurate name than the Wizard's Curse. It's power is drawn directly from the wielder. Should said wielder not have enough magical energy to boost the wand, then it draws more heavily on surrounding creatures. It will always draw power from living magical creatures, but only those with an enormous amount of energy would feel it's effects. It is an exponential force: the greater the magic, the more is drawn. Totti, you will take Malver and Suli to the guest house and not return until six hours have passed." When had the house-elf entered? "Remus, I suggest you wait with the children downstairs. Since you are a werewolf, you will feel the drain more acutely than the others. The rest of you will no doubt have to assist Mrs. Weasley once I have removed the curse."
"How do we know you won't blow us all up in the process?" Black, always the one to look on the bright side. Sometimes, Bill just wished the man would keep silent when it was obvious he could do nothing to change the outcome.
"I know what I am doing." The voice was cold as ice.
"How so?"
"I've done it before." Irvan looked as though he was going to add an insult, but the petite house-elf was vying for his attention. "I thought I told you to leave, Totti."
"Master Irvan should be opening the Chest before he uses the wand."
"Not now, Totti."
"Master Irvan should open the Chest now."
"Totti, I'm not opening the Chest."
"Master Irvan should open the Chest."
"Master Irvan is not wanting to open that bloody Chest."
Charlie gave Bill a strange, questioning look. Apparently they agreed. Either they misheard the entire conversation, or Irvan was whining.
"Master Irvan is to be drinking this afterwards." Totti put a large pitcher on the coffee table and a deep mug beside it.
"Oh dear gods, no." Bill would not have been surprised if Irvan tried to argue this point as well, but a pained noise from the bed caused him to change his mind quickly. "Fine, Totti. I'll open the bloody Chest. You just take Suli and Malver with you." With that Totti vanished and Irvan crouched in front of the softly glowing trunk.
"Why do the house-elves have to leave?" Charlie asked.
Distracted, the vampire answered, "Their magic will be among the first to be tapped. I would prefer the wand to gain its power from the vampiric magic. It will drain the curse of its power, allowing me to remove it without considerable harm to Severus."
"If that really is from the Tree of Life, how are you going to open it?" Remus asked.
"Family trait," the reply was terse. "One I would be completely satisfied with not having." With quick jerking motions and minimal amount of contact, the chest opened. "Sweet mother of Zeus," Irvan gasped before his face hardened. "He should not have this." And removed a softly glowing and very thick book. A intricate circular pattern as large as a man's hand decorated the cover. A wooden place, an exact copy of the design on the book, followed shortly after the book was placed securely on a nearby table. Standing, "You are not to touch those until Severus has told us why he has them." To the werewolf, "You should be downstairs." Then immediately went to Snape.
"Someone should inform the children as to what is happening so they won't worry." The Headmaster was practical as usual. Remus left reluctantly. It was clear he desired to see how 'The Blight' was used.
"The best thing for you to do," Irvan said from the bedside, not acknowledging their presence except through his words, "is not to move."
The first Bill knew of a beginnings of a spell was a subtle wind against his skin but causing nothing to move. Slowly it gained strength, but always blowing in the same direction, away from Irvan. He heard no words even as the magical wind gained a steady pattern, whipping around him as though searching. Suddenly a complete stillness over took the room. It felt as though nothing could move, as though nothing would ever move again.
Then a little trickle, feeling more like a cold slice of ice dragging a small something from him. A shivering cold cracked the room. And only grew steadily colder as magic was pulled from all imaginable sources. All gathering in a ice fire 'burning' where the vampire's hand connected with the blue crystal. The 'flames' rose as seconds passed. Suddenly, the ice fire rushed through the obsidian shaft and buried itself in Snape.
The Potions Master did not move an inch.
Bill must have blinked for he now saw Irvan on his knees as though in pain, trying to keep the wand steady as a blinding white streamed through the glistening volcanic glass. Directly back to the joint where black glass left the confines of blue crystal, once more collecting in an ice like fire.
And still nothing moved.
"What are you waiting for, Mrs. Weasley?" The hoarse whisper surprised everyone in the room. Yet the vampire did not appear to be as bad off as he sounded, for even as Bill's mother and Dumbledore rushed to the bedside, Irvan was picking himself up off the floor with little difficulty. Once he was standing as near to the raging fire as possible, he demanded, "Silk, as think as you can make it."
Bill complied, and transfigured a nearby glass into two thick silk cushions stuffed with folds of silk, and another long strip to secure the soft container. Only then did Irvan move the wand carefully from its cradle on his chest. Once placing it between the rolls of silk, he removed his hand. As blue and stiff as frostbite.
"Here," Bill said as he placed the pitcher and mug in front of the vampire, He figured pouring the drink would irritate him. Irvan busied himself with his one good hand, ignoring all others present.
"What was that?" Black asked in awe. Odd coming from someone not interested in either of the two parties involved.
Silence reigned.
"Come," the Headmaster said. "Molly will watch Severus for a while. We should give them some peace. And there are some things which with I wish to discuss with you, Sirius. And perhaps, Bill could take a closer look at that book." The statement was directed to the silent vampire.
A long, slow sip. "Leave it." Another sip. "I want to know why Severus has it, first."
"Very well." And he left in the company of Sirius Black.
Bill's father was approaching them now. "Come on, boys. You're mother will be along soon." Bill thought about staying to question Irvan about the book, for he was extremely interested. But for the moment, the only mystery he would be looking into was why this place was so protected.
"Arthur, wait," Irvan called after them. On turning, his face showed nothing but seriousness. Not even a hint of the weariness he should be feeling. "Before you injure yourself while tempting the wards, Bill, I'll save you the trouble and a lot of pain. This is Ciara Aloysius. And I'll remind you not share that information with the younger members of your family. Now you understand why you are not welcome here."
Bill was stunned. This place truly did exist. And it belonged to Snape? But all the legends had it belonging to an obscure family named Docilus, who later became a family of great renown as the Doles. But how were the Snapes related to the Doles? One would think history would remember such a change.
"Bill, Charlie," their mother called. "They're needing their rest now. Come on."
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AN: I know I'm not done with this fic or "Price of Loyalty," but PoL is starting to come to a close and I give this one 10 to 15 more chapters (not written, but I know what I want done, just need to write it). So, I've posted possible fics for me to concentrate on next. Take a look, and if you would like to see one before the others, let me know.
All right. Now for the interesting part of the chapter....... Answering reviews! (Because I never know how long it will take to write a chapter anymore and want you all to know the reviews are greatly appreciated) I'm working my way up to 250 so I have enough yen to get to the train station.
Mystical Dragon: Many, many thanks in regard to your comments. Do forgive me though, Severus will not wake until the next chapter. Which is also the chapter where Sirius, Harry, and Remus get to learn about Sirius. Just hold out a little longer.
Leah Durose formerly luna699: (just love the long name, how long until it's shortened?) How best to answer your queries? No, Dumbledore has not met this vampire, but... you'll see, next chapter I think. As for Harry, well, just wait until he learns what was kept from him.
shadoewhunter: Severus will wake next chapter. Just hang in there. I needed to deviate in order to leave the hints I needed to.
Eizoku: Is this better? I did wrap things up this time. And remain affectionate towards Irvan, I'll I'm going to say is he won't like me much after the story is over.
Padawan Jan-AQ: Well, Severus is bound to be fine now. At least until next time. And Harry has much more to go through before he fixes his problem.
Kemenran: My ever faithful and persistent reviewer. More is always coming. I even have a sequel planned called "Something More."
happigolucki616: I think I only managed to give you more questions about Severus in this chapter. But not to worry, concrete information is coming.
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Chapter 31
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For some of the occupants of the mansion, it was the second time they were awoken to a clamorous morning. However, instead of the ruckus of animals, they were treated to the gift of gab all excited teenagers were capable of. And this instance was punctuated by the fact that said teenagers were Weasleys.
"A couple last rude remarks and Totti will show you around," Professor Irvan said to them once the portkey dropped them off just a rather large round room, devoid of any obstructions for the safety of portkey passengers.
Bill was having difficulties believing this _Professor_ was merely a Professor who had a strong friendship with Professor Snape. He trusted the letter penned by Headmaster Dumbledore. And he believed his younger bothers and sister about the man teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts and Potions. But, and he was certain Charlie and his father agreed, that this man was also something completely different than who he seemed to be.
"First off, your presence is not desired here, and I only brought you here as a favor for Mrs. Weasley. Second, you are not to go anywhere that is not specifically shown to you as a room where you may enter. Now if you will follow me."
Bill thought he saw a glint of silver in the man's black eyes as Irvan turned sharply for the exit. Ginny, Ron, and Fred and George followed first. All babbling incessantly, though a bit more quietly now, about being inside Snape's home.
"What are you thinking, Bill?" Charlie asked as they left the portkey room.
"I'm thinking that he's not human."
"Is that all? I thought you would be more interested in the wards engulfing this place, while I was the one worry about whether or not our host was human."
"Those did catch my attention. What do think, Dad?"
Arthur Weasley held a serious expression on his face, one of the few times his musings cause such a outward visage. "It is not who Irvan is, nor where we are that worries me. It is why your mother was asked to come here in the first place and why she needs to stay so long that Professor Dumbledore wants us to be here."
Bill frowned. He had been the one to greet the Headmaster at five in the morning. He called for his mother with little thought, other than it involved the Order in some respect. But he did not expect it to keep his mother for too terribly long. Obviously he was wrong.
What if it was Harry that Dumbledore had needed to assist? Everyone had to evacuate the school for the re-warding. He knew Harry was having increased trouble with his dreams, but Bill had thought that Dumbledore had found a solution for that. How ever temporary.
"RON!" Relief flooded though him as Harry's joyous yell caught everyone's attention. "What are you doing here? What are any of you doing here?"
"They are here for the holidays, for as long as Mrs. Weasley must remain here," Irvan answered first. "If you would accompany Totti and the younger Weasleys to their rooms, I'm sure you wouldn't pass up an opportunity to explain what you are doing here." As simple as that, Irvan dismissed the lot of them.
"Professor Irvan?" It was Ginny.
"Yes, Miss Weasley?"
"Thank you," the little redhead blurted out in one breath before running after the older boys.
"That was unexpected," said Bill's father.
"Yes, it most certainly was." Irvan's answer sounded slightly odd, but Bill could not place it. "If you gentlemen would follow me," the man's voice returned to his normal blank tones.
Together with his father and Charlie, Bill followed Irvan up a flight of the grand staircase and though a long corridor filled with faded tapestries to the only open door. Out of which he could hear hushed voices.
"No, I still can't see it, Professor. Not even when I know what I'm looking for." His mother sounded worried. Who was she talking about? He had seen Harry, so it couldn't be him. He was fairly certain Harry was going to stay with Remus Lupin over the holidays, but Bill had not seen the werewolf yet. Was it possible?
"I told you before," Lupin's voice, "I know what did it, but I don't have a clue as to how it did that, nor if it is possible to even see what it did." Thankfully the werewolf was still there
"You said it was vampires." A new voice. Bill thought it was Sirius Black, the man he met over the summer during one of the Order's meetings. Dumbledore had kept them locked in the room while he explained the details. Surprise was the obvious reaction, as was fear and anger. No one had been happy about the reactions, but at least no one attempted to curse the escaped convict. "Those spells usually wear off soon after. Why's this one being such a bother?" Sirius did not sound as though he cared about the problem, only about the abnormality.
He and Charlie exchanged glances. Vampiric magic tended to become very complicated stuff once you got past the basic explanations. Bill had studied what was available. Which was not much by comparison with other creature magicks. But why would they be worried about vampiric magic?
That's when it hit him. The only person he they had not met in this house, was the owner, one Severus Snape. If the Potions Professor was the one who was ill, than it stood to reason that they would be allowed in despite the fact they were not wanted.
The conversation did not resume as they walked into the room. As Bill had labeled, Sirius, Remus and his mother were within, along side Headmaster Dumbledore. All of whom appeared to be sharing a pot of tea in the small sitting room. The Headmaster rose to greet them, "Ah, gentlemen, I trust the trip went safely." Bill thought he heard Irvan mutter something about a 'bloody portkey.' "Please come sit, I fear there is much to explain."
"It's about Severus, isn't it?" Mr. Weasley stated. At a questioning eyebrow from his wife, he explained further, "He's the only one not present. And seeing as how this is his house..."
"Yes, it is Severus. Currently he is asleep..."
"Unconscious would be the word I would use," Irvan interrupted the Headmaster curtly. "I thought you would have the decency to be direct."
"Would you prefer to explain events?" Dumbledore asked, sounding innocent. When Irvan did not respond, the Headmaster returned his attention to the new arrivals. "A couple of nights ago, Severus returned from what we assume was a Death Eater raid. Irvan deduced that most of the curses that Molly has removed were from Aurors. It wasn't until later that he discovered the reason we could not understand why Molly could not heal the ripped muscle tissue was because of a curse laid down by a vampire."
Bill waited for more, but none seemed forthcoming. "But how would you know how to spot a vampiric curse? They are near impossible for a wizard to detect and almost equally impossible for a wizard to correct."
All eyes went towards Irvan. "That would be perhaps because I am a vampire." This was only a shock to three of them. "Now, part of the reason I agreed to bring you here, was because you and your brother, Charlie, have encountered vampiric curses before. I am hoping you might be able to remove this curse to allow Mrs. Weasley to heal the muscles. It would be easier on Severus if wizard's magic was used for this instead of vampire's."
"Why would that be?" Remus asked.
"It is the nature of vampiric magic to be rather insidious. The same applies to beneficial uses as well as malevolent ones. Our magic is only meant to work with us, not normal humans. Or at least the magic used against Severus."
"What about what you did to me?" Sirius piped up.
"I was merely affecting the area around you, not you yourself."
"No, the other time. With the whole speeding me up and stuff." Bill had no idea as to what Sirius was talking about, nor as to what happened on either of these incidents.
"Believe me, you were not unscathed. You were confused and disoriented for a full ten minutes before you began your demands." Was it just his imagination or did Irvan sound pleased about this.
"Master Irvan!" Something small and loud interrupted. "It's Master Severus! He's awake!" A house-elf, of course.
"He's WHAT!" Irvan's reaction was completely unexpected. "He should NOT be awake. Molly, I need you to put him back to sleep until we can remove that curse." He flew into the adjoining room, closely followed by Mrs. Weasley. Bill and the rest of the conversation partners were not far behind.
Snape was still bedridden, but obviously struggling to leave its confines. "The book... chest... must..." The Potions Professor sounded feverish, but Irvan paled and his steps faltered momentarily. "Must... h...master... the chest."
"Molly!"
"It's not responding. Something's blocking me!"
"Shit!" Irvan rushed to the bedside. Snape must have recognized him because his eyes cleared for a brief moment and he declared clearly, "Don't touch me, you leech!" The vampire completely ignored the order and roughly took Snape's head in his hands and uttered a word Bill did not recognized from any language.
"What is it, Irvan?" Dumbledore demanded.
Irvan whirled on the Headmaster. "It's rapidly blocking all attempts at wizarding spells, making it impossible for any of you to do more than irritate it."
Dumbledore managed to combine fatherly worry over Snape with a cold detachment directed at Irvan. " I could discern that; I meant about the book and chest."
The vampire actually growled. "Bill, Charlie, with me." And fled for the hall.
Neither Bill nor his brother hesitated much. Questioning the logic and sanity of the action, but followed nonetheless. Which seemed a reckless venture through a hazardous maze. Once Bill, who prided himself one being able to remember any route he used to get somewhere, was completely lost, the vampire halted before an empty frame.
"Blood and bloody ashes, Salazar! You pick now to go visiting!" So the portrait was of Salazar Slytherin. This house was getting more and more interesting. Irvan rapped sharply on the frame until a tidy man in deep greens moseyed into view. The portrait must have been done while the man was still rather young. He had long black hair, clasped formally at the base of his neck and splayed neatly over his left shoulder. The face was not remarkable, though it was clean shaven. The eyes however, glittered mischievously a brilliant green. "Took your time, I see."
"Now, Irvan, there's no reason to be hostile. You look older, how long has it been?"
"I need the Chest, password: To open dead eyes."
"What happened to pleasant conversation?" Salazar asked as he faded leaving a blank space on the wall. Shortly, a long, ornately carved wooden chest appeared. At first, Bill thought it was glowing because of the spell used to move it, but once it was clear of the wall the soft brown aura remained. This was no ordinary chest.
"Well, take it!"
The brothers did so. Salazar reappear, more concerned now. "What has happened?" he asked stoically.
Irvan again ignored the query. "Take them back to Severus's room." And he was gone.
"I'm starting to worry about that guy, Bill," Charlie said from his side of the chest. "He doesn't seem to be very coherent."
"Don't worry about him," the painting spoke. "He's managed to survive over eighteen hundred years fretting over this family. I'm sure the present one can't be that much of a dilemma. Come now, Irvan wants you back in Severus's room. Though while we are on our way, perhaps you could inform me as to what has happened? Ah. Forgive me, I haven't properly introduced myself. Salazar Slytherin, at your service."
"Bill Weasley."
"Charlie Weasley. Pleasure, I'm sure."
"Weasley? A fairly old name, if I remember correctly. Not the richest, mind, but a truly honest family. Formed after my time, but Snapes have always spoke highly of them."
"Are we talking about the same family?" Charlie objected, for he had the breath to spare at the moment. "I don't know anything about the former Snapes, but the current one sure as hell hates us."
"Severus? I wouldn't go as far as that. He does like to complain about your reckless honesty. Though he has been worried about, what was his name, Percy, I believe. Too impressionable for his own good. And never taking advice from where he should be. Ah, but enough about this. What has Severus gotten himself into this time. He so rarely returns nowadays."
"We're not completely sure. We've only arrived just recently."
"Hmm. Something unusual by Irvan's reactions. Right, here."
"Well, they said something about Snape being attacked by vampires."
"That would get Irvan into a conundrum. Poor fellow never knew how to handle his own race. Left, here. So, Severus has been attacked by vampires. That explains Irvan's protective mood. But that does not explain why he needs the Chest."
"Something about a book."
"A book? Hmm."
Slytherin's lack of explanation only left Bill more confused than before. The Founder must have known about a book that Snape would have put in the chest. Much of the rest of the way passed in relative silence, with the occasional directions when the lack paintings prevented Slytherin to continue with them. Slytherin seemed caught up in thought, as much as a thousand year old portrait could.
"This is as far as I can go. There are no more paintings along this corridor I am able to take. Muggle, I believe. Severus's door is the fifth one past the picture of the swans, at least I'm told it is a picture of swans. Looks more like a inhospitable bog to me. If you remain for any length of time, have Irvan take you some place where we could converse in peace. It has been an incredibly long time since there have been Gryffindors in this house. Godric and the Headmasters get so predicable after spending such a long time with only them to talk to. If circumstances allow tell Severus, I wish him a speedy recovery. And tell Irvan that I will not tolerate him hiding from me."
"That was interesting." Bill felt safe once they were just outside the door.
"You're telling me. You get to tell Snape."
"Will not. Let's just say 'circumstances' do not allow. Think if we kick loud enough someone will answer?" he jested. Fortunately they did not have to. Sirius let them in. The man eyed the chest suspiciously but said nothing. Even in the wizarding world one does not see glowing chest everyday. And the chest itself was not heavy exactly. Just heavy enough and bulky enough to require to people to handle.
Remus was the first one who seemed to recognize the chest and its uniqueness. "That's not what I think it is, is it?"
Even as Bill shrugged his ignorance, a deep voice replied, "Yes, it is." Irvan had returned. Sour as ever. "Put it by the hearth." With the chest gone from his attention, Bill turned to see the vampire standing at the open entrance to the balcony. Holding a long shaft of black glass and a slender blue crystal tube.
"I hope that's not what it looks like," he stated.
"It is," was all the vampire said as he continued to slide the black glass through the blue crystal.
"Will someone please explain to me what is going on here?" Black sounded quite frustrated.
Headmaster Dumbledore, always able to calm any situation, responded to that cry. "We are still learning as to what is happening. Remus, if you would explain what this chest is."
"I never thought it existed. But Irvan said it was. This chest is made of wood from the Tree of Life." That statement alone was enough to silence the room.
Many long moments passed as the information was processed. "Bill," Dumbledore interrupted. "Would you care to explain what Irvan is doing?"
Innocent enough. "The tool he will create with that volcanic glass and blue quartz will be strong enough to level this building if he so much as holds it wrong." Innocent to the unaided eye. "Some records call it the Wizard's Curse because no wizard could ever control the power it possessed. Others call it The Blight. Not sure why it has this name. But one thing is certain, that thing draws its power from the creatures around it, mostly permanent removal of a creature's magic is involved."
"Incorrect." Irvan's voice broke the unspoken spell of silence. "The Blight, however, inappropriate, is a more accurate name than the Wizard's Curse. It's power is drawn directly from the wielder. Should said wielder not have enough magical energy to boost the wand, then it draws more heavily on surrounding creatures. It will always draw power from living magical creatures, but only those with an enormous amount of energy would feel it's effects. It is an exponential force: the greater the magic, the more is drawn. Totti, you will take Malver and Suli to the guest house and not return until six hours have passed." When had the house-elf entered? "Remus, I suggest you wait with the children downstairs. Since you are a werewolf, you will feel the drain more acutely than the others. The rest of you will no doubt have to assist Mrs. Weasley once I have removed the curse."
"How do we know you won't blow us all up in the process?" Black, always the one to look on the bright side. Sometimes, Bill just wished the man would keep silent when it was obvious he could do nothing to change the outcome.
"I know what I am doing." The voice was cold as ice.
"How so?"
"I've done it before." Irvan looked as though he was going to add an insult, but the petite house-elf was vying for his attention. "I thought I told you to leave, Totti."
"Master Irvan should be opening the Chest before he uses the wand."
"Not now, Totti."
"Master Irvan should open the Chest now."
"Totti, I'm not opening the Chest."
"Master Irvan should open the Chest."
"Master Irvan is not wanting to open that bloody Chest."
Charlie gave Bill a strange, questioning look. Apparently they agreed. Either they misheard the entire conversation, or Irvan was whining.
"Master Irvan is to be drinking this afterwards." Totti put a large pitcher on the coffee table and a deep mug beside it.
"Oh dear gods, no." Bill would not have been surprised if Irvan tried to argue this point as well, but a pained noise from the bed caused him to change his mind quickly. "Fine, Totti. I'll open the bloody Chest. You just take Suli and Malver with you." With that Totti vanished and Irvan crouched in front of the softly glowing trunk.
"Why do the house-elves have to leave?" Charlie asked.
Distracted, the vampire answered, "Their magic will be among the first to be tapped. I would prefer the wand to gain its power from the vampiric magic. It will drain the curse of its power, allowing me to remove it without considerable harm to Severus."
"If that really is from the Tree of Life, how are you going to open it?" Remus asked.
"Family trait," the reply was terse. "One I would be completely satisfied with not having." With quick jerking motions and minimal amount of contact, the chest opened. "Sweet mother of Zeus," Irvan gasped before his face hardened. "He should not have this." And removed a softly glowing and very thick book. A intricate circular pattern as large as a man's hand decorated the cover. A wooden place, an exact copy of the design on the book, followed shortly after the book was placed securely on a nearby table. Standing, "You are not to touch those until Severus has told us why he has them." To the werewolf, "You should be downstairs." Then immediately went to Snape.
"Someone should inform the children as to what is happening so they won't worry." The Headmaster was practical as usual. Remus left reluctantly. It was clear he desired to see how 'The Blight' was used.
"The best thing for you to do," Irvan said from the bedside, not acknowledging their presence except through his words, "is not to move."
The first Bill knew of a beginnings of a spell was a subtle wind against his skin but causing nothing to move. Slowly it gained strength, but always blowing in the same direction, away from Irvan. He heard no words even as the magical wind gained a steady pattern, whipping around him as though searching. Suddenly a complete stillness over took the room. It felt as though nothing could move, as though nothing would ever move again.
Then a little trickle, feeling more like a cold slice of ice dragging a small something from him. A shivering cold cracked the room. And only grew steadily colder as magic was pulled from all imaginable sources. All gathering in a ice fire 'burning' where the vampire's hand connected with the blue crystal. The 'flames' rose as seconds passed. Suddenly, the ice fire rushed through the obsidian shaft and buried itself in Snape.
The Potions Master did not move an inch.
Bill must have blinked for he now saw Irvan on his knees as though in pain, trying to keep the wand steady as a blinding white streamed through the glistening volcanic glass. Directly back to the joint where black glass left the confines of blue crystal, once more collecting in an ice like fire.
And still nothing moved.
"What are you waiting for, Mrs. Weasley?" The hoarse whisper surprised everyone in the room. Yet the vampire did not appear to be as bad off as he sounded, for even as Bill's mother and Dumbledore rushed to the bedside, Irvan was picking himself up off the floor with little difficulty. Once he was standing as near to the raging fire as possible, he demanded, "Silk, as think as you can make it."
Bill complied, and transfigured a nearby glass into two thick silk cushions stuffed with folds of silk, and another long strip to secure the soft container. Only then did Irvan move the wand carefully from its cradle on his chest. Once placing it between the rolls of silk, he removed his hand. As blue and stiff as frostbite.
"Here," Bill said as he placed the pitcher and mug in front of the vampire, He figured pouring the drink would irritate him. Irvan busied himself with his one good hand, ignoring all others present.
"What was that?" Black asked in awe. Odd coming from someone not interested in either of the two parties involved.
Silence reigned.
"Come," the Headmaster said. "Molly will watch Severus for a while. We should give them some peace. And there are some things which with I wish to discuss with you, Sirius. And perhaps, Bill could take a closer look at that book." The statement was directed to the silent vampire.
A long, slow sip. "Leave it." Another sip. "I want to know why Severus has it, first."
"Very well." And he left in the company of Sirius Black.
Bill's father was approaching them now. "Come on, boys. You're mother will be along soon." Bill thought about staying to question Irvan about the book, for he was extremely interested. But for the moment, the only mystery he would be looking into was why this place was so protected.
"Arthur, wait," Irvan called after them. On turning, his face showed nothing but seriousness. Not even a hint of the weariness he should be feeling. "Before you injure yourself while tempting the wards, Bill, I'll save you the trouble and a lot of pain. This is Ciara Aloysius. And I'll remind you not share that information with the younger members of your family. Now you understand why you are not welcome here."
Bill was stunned. This place truly did exist. And it belonged to Snape? But all the legends had it belonging to an obscure family named Docilus, who later became a family of great renown as the Doles. But how were the Snapes related to the Doles? One would think history would remember such a change.
"Bill, Charlie," their mother called. "They're needing their rest now. Come on."
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AN: I know I'm not done with this fic or "Price of Loyalty," but PoL is starting to come to a close and I give this one 10 to 15 more chapters (not written, but I know what I want done, just need to write it). So, I've posted possible fics for me to concentrate on next. Take a look, and if you would like to see one before the others, let me know.
All right. Now for the interesting part of the chapter....... Answering reviews! (Because I never know how long it will take to write a chapter anymore and want you all to know the reviews are greatly appreciated) I'm working my way up to 250 so I have enough yen to get to the train station.
Mystical Dragon: Many, many thanks in regard to your comments. Do forgive me though, Severus will not wake until the next chapter. Which is also the chapter where Sirius, Harry, and Remus get to learn about Sirius. Just hold out a little longer.
Leah Durose formerly luna699: (just love the long name, how long until it's shortened?) How best to answer your queries? No, Dumbledore has not met this vampire, but... you'll see, next chapter I think. As for Harry, well, just wait until he learns what was kept from him.
shadoewhunter: Severus will wake next chapter. Just hang in there. I needed to deviate in order to leave the hints I needed to.
Eizoku: Is this better? I did wrap things up this time. And remain affectionate towards Irvan, I'll I'm going to say is he won't like me much after the story is over.
Padawan Jan-AQ: Well, Severus is bound to be fine now. At least until next time. And Harry has much more to go through before he fixes his problem.
Kemenran: My ever faithful and persistent reviewer. More is always coming. I even have a sequel planned called "Something More."
happigolucki616: I think I only managed to give you more questions about Severus in this chapter. But not to worry, concrete information is coming.