Dear Gods this has been the longest week of my life.
The last week of school was always terrible. This year it fell into the category of hell. The students were so riled up about their impending summer freedom. The bonus being the graduation ceremonies were extremely boring. However, this year with the defeat of Riddle the ministry was throwing a banquet for all of those involved. Severus had been invited, of course, but was not planning on attending.
Planning, being the key word. While attempting to decline in the Headmasters office he had tried to summon the old mans candy dish, on the sly. The thing came hurling past him and shattered against the wall.
The heat rose to Severus' cheeks and Albus bust out laughing.
"Problems, dear boy?"
Severus mumbled something under his breath.
"What was that," Albus teased.
"I said," Severus bit out, "it's been happening since I got my magic back."
"Well, that understandable. You've had forty odd years to be used to your powers. To have them change or grow would take some getting used to."
Severus glared back his response.
"However, that was my favorite candy dish."
"What do you want, old man?"
"I really do think you would enjoy yourself at this banquet."
"You're not going to drop this are you?"
"Maybe you'll meet a nice witch, Severus."
"Fine, just shut it. I'll go, but I'm not interested in 'meeting a nice witch'."
"Good, good. We'll be leaving by portkey at 5:30 in the main hall."
Severus waited until the last possible minute before joining the group surrounding the portkey. The Headmaster had started to count just as he stepped up and placed his hand on it.
He felt that familiar tugging sensation and when he opened his eyes the first thing he saw was a portrait of bloody Potter defeating the Dark Lord, alone. This was going to be a terrible evening.
Things soon got underway after a long winded speech by the Minister of Magic. Fudge was on his way out next month to be replaced by Amelia Bones. He still managed to sound like a great arse. He finally got down to handing out awards and orders of Merlin. He started with the lesser awards and worked his way up. Lupin had been awarded an Order of Merlin second class. Slowly he worked his way up to the dream team.
Granger went first. She had grown into her looks. At twenty three, she had a nice body and dressed tastefully. Her hair had calmed some, but still tended toward the wild side. It was like the only part of her that could break the rules and rebel. She received a first class order. She looked extremely proud.
Next was Weasly. He'd grown his hair long, like his brother, and wore it pulled back into a tail. His fake eye wasn't nearly as un-nerving as Moody. It didn't swivel around in its socket all the time like the crass Auror's. I guess eye training is useful. He, of course, also received a first class.
Lastly was Saint Potter. The crowd went wild. He was finally freed of his lightening bolt scar. He accepted another first class medal. The crowd would not quiet down. Potter looked like he was ready to be sick until Dumbledore finally quieted down the audience and sat Potter back in his seat.
Albus took the podium to speak to those in attendance.
"It is a great honor to me to be able to present the last medal."
The crowd grew much quieter. Everyone had thought that the ceremonies were over.
"Severus Snape first started as Potions Master at Hogwarts during the first rise of Voldemort."
Snape sat stock still, not expecting this.
"At the time he was already a member of the Order of Phoenix. We discussed the need for someone with inside information. I asked him to try and gain entrance to the Dark Lords inner circle. At the time, we new some of the things that were required of Death Eaters, but not much. It seemed a small price to pay for information for the side of Light." At this Dumbledore got choked up.
"There has never been a decision that I have regretted more. It soon became apparent on not only what atrocities that were required of Severus to perform but also wrongs done to him. In the name of the order he has taken blows to his body, magic, soul, and reputation." There wasn't a sound to be heard in the room as the Headmaster spoke. The only thing betraying Snape's clam façade was the twitching of his hand on his leg.
"It is with great pride that I present Severus with the Order of Merlin, Star Class."
There was a roar of noise inside the hall as Severus slowly stood and walked to the podium. It had been at least two hundred years since any one had received an order that prestige. Albus held out his hand and gave Severus a sincere 'thank you.' Severus gave a short bow to the room and quickly returned to his seat.
Harry and Ron had the most shocked expressions on their faces. Hermione had tears running down her face and a brilliant smile. Severus tried in vain to disappear behind his hair.
Dinner began soon after. People were talking and mingling. Severus sat at a table with the other Hogwarts staff and the first class order recipients. He ate quietly looking for the first sign of a good time to escape. Every time he sensed an opportunity Albus would start a short conversation with him. A few times Miss Granger had tried to speak with him but he gave short replies.
This is too much. I can't take any more of this. I have to get out of here.
He wasn't one for public gatherings in the first place but this was even worse. Complete strangers kept coming up to him to talk. One woman even asked him to dance.
Albus got up to speak with Amelia Bones for a moment, but Severus could still see him glancing his way every few moments to make sure he stayed. Severus felt movement on his left as Miss Granger leaned over towards him.
What the devil does she want?
"Congratulations, Professor, and thank you."
Then she just got up with out a word and went to speak with Albus. She stood directly in front, effectively cutting off his view.
What the….ah clever girl. Thank you.
Snape slid out of the hall and went back to Hogwarts.