It had taken Severus Snape less than two minutes to clear his and Hermione's chambers of the remaining Order members. Including the time it took him to tell Minerva to have them reconvene tomorrow morning, bringing as many more as she thought would be comfortable planning without Albus. After that it had taken him one minute to bully the school Matron into giving him as much information as one could ever get from her, without the use of Veritaserum. Another two minutes and he was settled on the couch with his wife in his arms.
"Hermione, what has happened? Why did Poppy give you a calming draught?" he asked with concern evident in his silky voice.
At this show of concern Hermione covered her face and sobbed. Her sounds were so utterly grief stricken that Severus began to worry in ernest.
"Are you ill?" he asked quietly.
She shook her head in the negative.
"Did something happen to you in the corridor? Were you hurt?"
Again she responded with a negative shake of her head.
She obviously wasn't going to talk, Severus could only guess, "Are you not with child as you thought?"
At this question her sobs turned into soul searing cries of anguish.
Severus took this as a yes. "That is fine, we can cast the fertility spell again..." he paused and watched her cry her heart out, "...unless, are you unable to - ?"
His only response was her continued distress.
"It does not matter if - "
He stopped as she began to speak through her sobs. Between coughs and sniffles she managed to say, "I... am... pregnant."
"What is it? Tell me," he urged, making a supreme effort to keep the frustration from his tone.
"I..." she inhaled in shaking gasps, "am..." she let out a desperate sob, "not fit" she began shaking violently, "to be the mother of your child," she keened.
Severus was speechless. She was crying so hard that she was not getting enough oxygen. She choked out more words, enough so that he understood she had forgotten that she was pregnant.
'Hormone induced moods? No, it's too soon...' he thought, '...isn't it?' He forced his touch to seem patient as he stroked Hermione's back. 'She is not weak, she is usually in control of herself. She never... behaves in this manner. I will manage to tolerate this unwonted outburst if it kills me,' he berated himself internally.
"Se - Severus?" she queried shakily.
"Yes," he said, trying for an even tone. He wasn't sure he made it, but at least he managed not to snap.
He had to strain to hear her whispered, "I'm sorry."
"Foolish witch," he said softly, "you have nothing to apologise for."
"First, I forgot that I'm carrying your child," she took a deep shuddering breath, "and then, and then, I act like an idiot."
"You have never acted like an idiot Hermione," he said, "never."
She looked at him in disbelief.
"Your distress is most understandable, and entirely appropriate," he dissembled like the Slytherin he was. He consciously headed into more truthful territory. "You have had a difficult time of late. Your strength amazes me. Most people could not face such unceasing adversity, and yet, you have done so with grace and poise."
"You've had a difficult time too Severus," she whispered, "but you haven't acted like a - "
"Do not," he snarled, "belittle yourself."
"Severus," she said reverently, reaching a hand up to trace his cheek, "you are so - " She was obviously fighting to keep a hold on her modicum of composure. She looked into his glittering black eyes and whispered, "I do not deserve you."
He was taken aback. "You," he said with incredulity, "do not deserve," his tone became self-deprecating as he emphasised the last word, "me?"
She brought her free hand to his other cheek and petted him as though he were the most precious creature in existence. Her eyes shown with love and adoration. "You, Severus," she breathed, "are perfect." At his scathing look she continued, "No, you are not the typical standard of perfection, but you are perfect to me. Severus you are everything I could ever want. You are more than that."
He knew he should respond. 'No, Hermione, it is you who are the epitome of all that is perfection, in all it's forms.' He frantically tried to make his mouth work, 'Why can I not speak it to her?' Instead, he tilted his head to the side so that his cheek was gently pressed to her. As he did so, she wrapped a leg across his lap bringing them closer. After a few minutes her hand began to repeatedly sift through his hair, her nails gently scraping his scalp. All the while he held her tightly to him with one arm, as his other rhythmically stroked her back.
"Mr Potter!" Minerva McGonagall snapped, "What are you doing in the dungeons at this hour?"
Harry knew he should have worn his invisibility cloak. There was nothing for it now, so he told the truth, "I was on my way to see Snape - "
"Professor Snape."
"Yeah, anyway, I changed my mind and was headed back to Gryffindor Tower."
"What made you change your mind?"
"I realised he might not appreciate seeing me this late." Harry smiled sheepishly. "Or ever, for that matter," he added quietly.
"I see, and what did you need with Professor Snape?"
"I was hoping to convince him to help me with Occlumency again, and I wanted to ask if he would give me lessons in Defense Against The Dark Arts. I mean I respect Professor Lupin, and I'm really glad he's back," Harry added hastily. "It just seems like Snape has a better idea of what it will take against Voldemort."
"It's Professor Snape Harry, and I think you're right there," Harry's head of house said with a grim smile. "I am on my way to fetch Professor Snape and bring him to help me with Albus, as we all discussed earlier," she went on in a whisper. "I think it might be a good idea for you to join us. Come along."
Harry followed Professor McGonagall as she made her way to the Snapes' door. When they arrived they found it ajar.
"Good Lord," she exclaimed as she turned to Harry, "I have never known Professor Snape to leave his door unwarded. Something must have happened."
Harry drew his wand at the same time Professor McGonagall drew hers.
"Silently now," she whispered. They both slowly made their way into the Snape's chambers.
They froze inside the door to the sitting room. Surprisingly, it was well lit, and there was no sign of an intruder or foul play. In fact the whole room was imbued with a sense of peaceful contentment. At the centre of this were two entwined figures on the couch. Severus and Hermione were in the same position they had been in hours ago. They had dozed off together for a while, only to awaken in each other's embrace scant minutes before. Severus had resumed lightly caressing Hermione's back, and she renewed her loving fingering of the hair at the back of his neck.
Harry's jaw dropped at the sight of his cold cruel Potions Professor, holding Hermione with such evident affection and devotion.
A smile flitted across the stern Transfiguration Professor's face as she watched Hermione smile in utter bliss, at whatever Severus Snape was whispering in her ear.
Loathe though she was to disrupt the couple, Minerva knew time was of the essence. She signalled for Harry to follow her and they backed out of the room. When they reached the door she instructed Harry to keep what they had witnessed between them; as she knocked sharply on the door.
Severus and Hermione both came to the door.
"It was open," Minerva explained.
"I can see that," Severus snapped, "I must have neglected to ward it in my haste to - "
Minerva cut him off, "Yes, yes. Severus," she said, urgency evident in her brisk tone, "I cast the detection spell. Albus is under the influence of Dark Magic. I need your help to bind him. I thought it might be best to have Mr Potter with us, as well as Hermione."
"Indeed," Severus answered sarcastically, "the presence of Potter will most assuredly aggrandize the proceedings.
Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore: Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorcerer, Chief Warlock, Supreme Mugwump; considered by many the greatest wizard of modern times was ... awake. His peaceful night's sleep having been rudely interrupted by Severus Snape casting a binding spell on him. As a result of that spell, he now lay in his bed: with his magic bound; his body paralysed; and his vocal abilities muted. The only mobility and means of communication left him were his eyes; which were flicking from face to face. First, they regarded Severus with utter disparagement; they then found Harry and the look of disparagement transformed into a look of disappointment; when they came to rest on Minerva hurt shone in their depths; and when they finally found Hermione, they held nothing but absolute loathing.
Minerva ignored the changing emotions in Albus' eyes and focused on her task. She silently transfigured Albus' pink bunny slippers that were beside the bed into a small podium. On it she placed the notes from her lessons with Severus, a large bottle of potion, a clear quartz crystal sphere, a neatly folded white and silver robe, and her wand.
Severus waved his hand and the room was plunged into complete and total darkness. It was impossible to even make out the shape of your hand in front of your face. The rustle of fabric was heard, and then silence for a few minutes, followed by the sounds of movement and more fabric. When silence descended again, Severus waved his hand a second time; spot-lighting Minerva and Albus while leaving the rest of the room in deep darkness. This was clearly to prevent Minerva from being distracted.
Harry, Severus, and Hermione silently watched the proceedings from the darkness. Minerva, had changed. She had a thick coating of the potion covering her entire person and she wore the robe that she had placed on her podium. She stood at Albus' bedside as she centred herself, and prepared for the task ahead. Very quietly she spoke, "Hunc locum esse éúãåöîå éñçî declaro, in quem mala periculaque omnia non intrabunt." Folding her hands in front of herself she stood serenely, with her eyes closed.
Hermione answered Harry's hushed question with a whisper, "She said, 'I declare this place my Fortress and my Refuge, in which all manner of evils and dangers shall not enter.' Shhhh."
"Potter, Professor McGonagall needs silence," Severus hissed.
After a minute Minerva opened her eyes and picked up the bottle of potion. She liberally coated Albus with it. When she was finished, she spoke the words that would bring the Dark Magic into the Light, "Producto Atrum."
Minerva then set the empty bottle back on the podium and picked up the crystal sphere and her wand. She faced Albus, prepared to remove the Dark Magic. She held the crystal sphere in her left hand parallel with her shoulder, in her right she brandished her wand. In her most brisk commanding tone she incanted, "Extraho Atrum!"
As soon as she cast the spell, the clear potion on Albus' skin began to change. It turned a deep charcoal colour as it thickened. When the potion's transformation was complete Minerva cleansed Albus of the Dark influences. She held her wand aloft and made a series of complicated figures with it while she spoke, "Purgo Atrum!" With these words the murky potion turned into a thick vapour. As it rose off Albus it hung heavily in the air, a dark malignant fog seeking a host.
Minerva quickly made more and different complicated wand movements, while she incanted once again, "Inreto Atrum!" At this, the noxious vapour snaked it's way towards the crystal sphere. After what seemed to be a very long time, all the vapourised potion was now trapped within the sphere.
Minerva's visibly shaking hand set the sphere back on the podium before she turned to face Albus to cast one last spell. She exerted a great effort and steadied her hands. Her voice was loud and clear as she pointed her wand at Albus and incanted, "Remaneo Luminarium Solus!" Albus was bathed in a brilliant silver-white light, that was slowly absorbed into his skin. As soon as all the spell-light was absorbed, Minerva repeated in grateful english, "Only Light remains."
At this, Severus waved a hand and the room was returned to normal lighting. At the same time Hermione slid a chair behind Minerva, who thankfully sank down into it. Minerva held one of Hermione's hands while Severus released Albus from his binding spell.
The four watched the Headmaster in silence.
"Minerva," Albus Dumbledore's voice broke the peace, "thank you, my dear." Albus smiled before looking over at Harry, "Harry, your life is never boring is it?" The Headmaster chuckled. He turned to Severus, "And you, dear boy, Minerva could never have accomplished this without your expertise, I've no doubt." The Headmaster's smile left his face and was replaced with a look of contrition. "I must apologise Severus. The things I accused you of, the things I allowed others to assume about you..." The headmaster reached towards Severus, "I wish it were within my power to undo the terrible things I have done."
'Oh, urgh. Are they buying this?' Hermione thought.
Albus turned and observed Hermione with a grim expression. "Miss - excuse me, Hermione, I feel I must apologise to you as well." He glanced at Harry and Minerva, "If I might have a minute with Severus and Hermione? To apologise properly before my little strength fails me."
Summarily dismissed, an exhausted Minerva accepted a perplexed Harry's arm, and they left the room quietly.
"Severus, Hermione, as much as I regret the things I said, and did, I need to make something perfectly clear. I do not, and will never condone this travesty of a marriage between the two of you. He was your TEACHER, and you were his STUDENT."
"Ah, yes, the same relationship that you and Minerva began with I believe," Severus interjected smoothly.
Albus ignored Severus' accurate comment. "There is the unpropitious difference in your ages which can only lea - "
"But surely, Headmaster, you have noticed the difference in ages between yourself and Minerva? Some eighty years is it not?" Severus asked, in a cold sneering tone.
"Severus, really. I have no wish to argue, my boy. I do not, and will never, condone or approve of your marriage." Albus said sternly. "However, I do apologise for my remarks while I was under the influence of Dark Magic." The Headmaster held up his hand to stop Severus from replying. "Nevertheless, Severus, I am deeply disappointed in you."
Hermione's righteous indignation grew, her eyes flashed dangerously. She addressed the Headmaster with barely contained rage, "I know you were under the influence of Dark Magic, but I thought you ought to know." She paused and glared into the Headmaster's eyes. "Rather than marrying a graduated adult witch, and full member of the Order Of The Phoenix, almost everyone believed Severus to be a paediophile that raped an underage girl! They believed it of HIM because it came from YOU. You, who are above reproach. Dumbledore the all-powerful, Dumbledore the omnipotent, Dumbledore the infallible. "How could you? How could you want people to believe such things of Severus? You know I was an adult witch, and that he made me his wife before he ever touched me! Yet, you wanted people to believe that he's a paediophiliac rapist. You knew if you planted the idea, they would believe you!" She took a breath and continued fiercely, "I did some research after James Adams told us you might be under the influence of Dark Magic, and do you know what I found out? The spell that was created and used on you, the one that supposedly exaggerated your hatred..." she hissed, "... it doesn't exaggerate it at all, it merely liberates it. All it does is take away your inhibitions. Everything you did, everything you said, all of it was YOU. It wasn't the Dark Magic. The things you did and said were things you may not have done if you weren't under the spell, but they were still things you would have wanted to do, and say. You didn't think anyone would realise that your actions were in fact your inner desires, did you?" she finished acidly.
Severus' face remained indifferent, but Hermione could tell he was surprised. He had not known of her research. "Surely, Albus, you remember what I told you," he said, surveying the Headmaster coolly... "The last time we met in your office. "I may not have wanted to stand by and watch you suffer under Dark Magic; however, I stand by my words. Moreover," he continued in his deadly baritone, "I stand by my wife. I always will."
The next morning Minerva arrived at the Snapes' chambers, with the supporters she had promised. This time Hermione had prepared for them. They were all seated at a round table. Making it clear that no one person was running the operation. They were all equals. By late morning they were deep in discussion.
"It has to be done," James insisted.
"I see that it needs to be, but to do it without the authorization of Albus Dumbledore... He's more than the head of the Order, he's the Chief of the Wizengamot. We will have to face him when all is said and done," Kingsley Shacklebolt opined.
"Yes, but if we're successful - " Tonks began.
"We'll be successful, or we won't be here to face him," Arthur said seriously.
"Imagine, Harry Potter, standing and telling all of wizardkind that the threat of You-Know-Who is gone for good," Molly said.
"We'll get away with it, if we survive it," Emmeline Vance pronounced.
Hestia Jones turned to Severus and asked, "How long will Dumbledore be incapacitated from the removal of the Dark Magic?"
"His advanced age should have him incapacitated for quite a long time. However, taking his good health into consideration, I would say he will be out of bed by January."
"Two months?" Remus Lupin whistled.
"He is over one hundred and fifty years old, you know," Minerva smiled.
"So what's the plan?" Harry asked.
"We have no plan, as of yet," Severus answered.
"Shouldn't we make one?" Harry returned.
Hermione interjected, "First Harry, we need to make sure everyone is willing to go along."
"Those opposed to using this advantage, without Albus having knowledge of our plans?" Minerva asked the group in her crisp authoritative tone.
Everyone looked at everyone else. No one spoke.
Minerva McGonagall finally broke the silence, "Let's have the ayes then, I'll start: aye." Minerva called out each name;
Remus Lupin: "Aye."
James Adams: "Let's do this. Um? Aye."
Kingsley Shacklebolt: "Aye."
Severus Snape: "Aye."
Hermione Snape: "Aye."
Nymphadora Tonks: "Aye."
Emmeline Vance: "Aye."
Hestia Jones: "Aye."
Charlie Weasley: "Aye."
Arthur Weasley: "Aye."
Molly Weasley: "Aye."
Everyone looked at Harry Potter. Minerva spoke seriously to him, "Harry, yours is the biggest burden, don't hesitate to voice your concerns. Say no, if you've any doubt."
"I'm an 'aye'. I've got concerns I'll voice, but I've got no doubt that now is the best time. Hermione laid the groundwork, and we'll never have another chance like this to take Vol - "
Tonks drew in a sharp breath at the name.
Harry changed his word, " - him - by surprise again. "The concern I'd like to voice now is; why isn't Ron here?"
"I wouldn't allow him, Harry," Molly said. "He's too young."
"I'm here, Hermione's here - "
"If I could help it, neither you or Hermione would be here. However, Hermione is of age now. She's technically older than that even, and she's more matu - experienced, than Ron or you, dear. As for you, well, I have no say in the matter," Molly answered.
"But Mrs Weasley, I'm underage, and if I'm allowed - "
"Harry," Hermione interrupted, "you are key in all of this. Ron isn't. Molly refuses to allow him, and that's all there is to it. If you can't accept that, and keep this from Ron; then say so, and we'll end it all now.
"I just needed to know why Ron was being excluded. I still don't think it's fair, but I guess I'm lucky you all need me. My 'aye' stands," Harry confirmed.
"We're all in agreement then," Minerva stated unnecessarily.
"Indeed, had you any doubts Minerva? You chose the... group," Severus drolled.
Hermione shot him an inscrutable look before speaking, "There is no guarantee that The Dark Lord will come alone. We need to be prepared for him to bring his - "
"Actually," Severus interrupted, "we need to encourage him to bring his Death Eaters. The removal of the The Dark Lord is paramount, however, it would be a mistake to leave the Death Eaters free."
"A deadly mistake," Kingsley agreed.
"We'll be outnumbered, won't we?" Hestia asked.
"Perhaps," Severus said noncommittally, "Hermione?"
"Severus created - "
"Hermione," Severus said in a warning tone.
"We," she corrected herself, "Severus and I, created a time release Power Enhancing Potion that has had extremely positive results." She went on to explain to the group about the curse she took in Hogsmeade. She explained that it should have killed her, but with her power enhanced half-shield she was fine. She continued to detail her trials; she told everyone of the enhanced spells she was able to test while she was under the influence of the potion. "So," she spoke loudly to be heard over the excited babble, "if, not just Harry, but everyone present is under the influence of the potion; we should be able to make up for any lack in numbers."
"Not that we will necessarily be outnumbered," Severus reminded them. "I can tell you that we should expect at least twelve or thirteen, not counting myself and Mr Adams of course. Pettigrew being the thirteenth I mention, I do not know what he will do. He is loyal to The Dark Lord, however, he owes Potter a life debt. He is an unknown." Severus paused and looked around at the group. He spoke again, his deep baritone weighted and solemn, "I have been promoted to Lucius' place, therefore, I should have more details before the fact. The Dark Lord has allowed me the privilege of choosing the place and time for Potter's delivery to him. I should be able to get all the details, but of course with The Dark Lord there are never any guarantees."
"Let's call it a day," Minerva said into the oppressive silence, "we can meet again once everyone's had time to think."
"At that time we can discuss the plan," Severus said, "that I will need to present to The Dark Lord. I may have to present it soon, so I would not take too long, 'thinking'."
"I don't need to ask you all to keep this utterly secret," Minerva said.
"There is even more need for secrecy than there has always been," Remus agreed.
Hermione stood. "You should all know that when you gave your 'ayes' you entered into a magical contract. It is your last chance to back out now," she said. "Once you leave this room today, you are irrevocably committed. The consequences of betrayal are dire."
Severus stood beside her. "Indeed," he concurred with a malicious glint in his cold black eyes.
"Worse than the consequences for outing the DA?" Harry joked nervously.
"This isn't kid stuff Harry," Hermione said solemnly.
Everyone looked at the Snapes. A distinct chill travelled up and down the spines of all those assembled.
"I don't suppose we can know the consequences?" Tonks asked.
"There is no need," Severus said smoothly, "you either back out now, and leave with a modified memory... or you commit. If you commit you should not entertain thoughts of betrayal. Therefore, no one should suffer the consequences."
"This is your last chance if you want out," Hermione said, "speak now or your 'aye' stands."
"I stand by it, I'm in," Arthur said.
"Yes, I've no doubts, my 'aye' remains firm," Remus concurred.
There was murmured assent all around.
"Good," Hermione said, "one last thing - "
"A coin?" Harry asked.
Hermione smiled. "Same charm, different objects all around."
Severus swept to a side table and brought over a box containing various charmed objects.
"The date, time, and place of the next meeting will appear on your object, everyone take one," Hermione said. "We," she nodded at Severus and Minerva, "will choose dates and times that will cause the least amount of suspicion and disruption. Check your objects at four this afternoon. I have added one new feature, everyone please touch your objects with your wands now, so your object will bond with you." They all did as asked. "Good," Hermione said, "now your object will only show the information while your wand is touching it."
Minerva stood. "If we've need for an emergency meeting you will be contacted personally by another person in this room," she said.
"We'll meet again soon," Hermione finished, "remember to check you objects at, or soon after, four this afternoon."
The group broke up and left in twos and threes.
"Severus," Minerva called after the evening meal, "might I have a word?"
"Yes," the Potions Master snapped. He was clearly irritated.
"In an office if you please," Minerva requested tartly, "yours or mine, it makes no difference."
"As we are closer to yours Minerva..."
"Sit," Minerva commanded as she shut her office door.
Severus sat, and fixed Minerva with his shrewd gaze. His cold dark eyes betraying nothing of what he was thinking.
"Severus Snape," Minerva began, "do you know what I discovered today?" At his unconcerned silence she added, "About your wife?"
Severus' irritation was turning rapidly to fear. However, his demeanor remained aloof and detached. "I do not make predictions Minerva. Are you confusing me with Trelawney? She is the batty resident of the north tower, I am the bat who resides in the dungeons."
"Ever since you were a little boy you have tried to use that tact with me," Minerva said, "and it still doesn't work. I will not be sidetracked."
"Pity."
"You'll think so when I'm through with you, young man," Minerva said in her most no-nonsense tone.
Several minutes later, far away in the Owlery, all the owls took flight in terror, at the sound of Professor Snape's bellow, "YOU EXPECT ME TO DO WHAT!"
"Good evening Hermione," Severus greeted. Hermione had just entered their chambers.
"You don't have any detentions tonight?" she asked.
"No. I missed you at dinner?" his voice was laden with suspicion.
"I was in Hogsmeade. I left you a note," she pointed at his desk.
"Ah, I just got in myself," he said.
"From dinner, this late?" she asked.
"Not directly, no. I ran into Minerva. We had a chat. I hear you have settled into your new post well," he said casually, a bit too casually.
"Yes," Hermione responded, suspicion rising on her part as well.
"And did you enjoy yourself in town?"
"Yes, Severus," she was exhausted from her day and nearing the end of her rope, "was there something?"
"No. I was merely inquiring."
"I see."
"Do you?"
"No."
"Nor do I."
She dissolved in mirth, and Severus chuckled darkly at the vision she presented with her flushed face, and her watering eyes.
"I shall find myself away from the castle this weekend," Severus said nonchalantly.
"Oh?"
"Nothing interesting." He had planned his excuse. With anyone else he would claim Potions research, but that would only intrigue Hermione. "I find I am in need of some new Quidditch equipment. It seems I may be called upon to referee again this year."
"Oh, erm, do you want me to come with you?" Hermione asked.
He smiled genuinely, "As much as I appreciate your willingness to make the sacrifice, I shall be able to complete the task on my own. Although I expect it shall take up most of - "
"And the nights?" she asked innocently. Not for one minute did she believe he was going Quidditch shopping.
"I shall be here at night, why do you ask?"
"You said weekend so I thought - "
"Silly little witch," he said scathingly, "if I were to be away overnight, I would most assuredly wish for you to accompany me." He gave her a raised eyebrow and asked, "If I may continue?" She said nothing more, so he smirked and went on, "I was saying that I expect the task to require most of the day Saturday."
"Oh, I see," she breathed. 'Why am I relieved?' she wondered. 'He can get up to... things, during the day just as well. But he wouldn't, would he? No, never. Although, I don't actually know much about his life before we began Albus' orientation scheme together, he might.' Aloud she said, "I need to, I just have to go see ... return, er, bring, something to Minerva that I forgot. She needs it tonight, it can't wait until tomorrow. I'll, uh, be back." Hermione turned and fled their chambers.
'Perhaps it is not too early for her to be effected by pregnancy hormones...' Severus wondered at his wife's retreating back.
Hermione sat across from her friend and mentor, with a cup of strong sweet tea.
"I know I'm being irrational. I mean it could be anything. He could even be telling me the truth, it's just that I know he isn't, you know?" Hermione said emotionally.
"Umm," Minerva responded encouragingly.
"I don't know why I'm afraid he's meeting a woman. I guess I just feel inadequate. I'm young, inexperienced, and I practically forced him into a relationship with me at wand point. Now with the baby - "
"Baby? Hermione, what baby?" Minerva gasped.
"Oh, it's horrible. I forced him to father a child for me and - "
"You couldn't force a thing like that, dear," Minerva said kindly.
"It's just like our binding, I initiated the spell."
"Hermione, you do know it takes more than a spell to make a baby?" Minerva asked, half seriously.
"Don't be - " Hermione began, "I mean, yes of course. I initiated a powerful fertility spell."
"Oh, I see," Minerva said.
Neither witch realised that Severus had just approached Minerva's door. He stopped before knocking to listen to the voices within.
"I rushed in to it all Minerva. I couldn't help it. I just fell in love with him."
"I know dear," Minerva said, "you don't need to worry."
"You don't think so?" Hermione sniffed.
"No I don't. Do you?"
"No, I don't. I do. I'm not... but ... yes. I mean, no."
"Goodness is that the time!" Minerva said, "Don't worry dear, Severus is a good man. Whether he admits it or not I know he is devoted to you. Go back down to him dear. I'm sure he's wondering what's taking you so long."
Undiscovered, Severus quickly left the door and swept to the dungeons in order to arrive before Hermione.
Severus, Hermione, and Minerva had chosen a meeting place for planning the details of what they all hoped would be the end of Voldemort.
The group of thirteen met at a large unplotable Snape property in the Suffolk Coastal District. Being the heir, it belonged to Severus Snape. The entire property was hidden under the Fidelius Charm. It had numerous Muggle repelling charms on it as well, much like Number 12 Grimmauld Place. Only this building held none of the dubious artifacts and filth of the Black house. It was obviously once a well-loved and impressive home. It was now kept up in grand fashion by a small army of clearly loyal, sane, house-elves.
All thirteen sat in the middle of a large rectangular formal dining table, in a richly appointed room. Six on one side, seven on the other. Upon entering the sublime room Molly had marvelled at the shine of the dark woods. Everything was so highly polished that they all reflected in the surfaces. Tonks stayed well clear of the breakfronts, the crystal, and the tasteful ojets d'art. The room was softly lit by a floating silver chandelier. A fire blazed cheerily in the ornate floo-less fireplace, maintaining a perfect temperature. The discriminating tastes of the original owners were obvious down to the extremely comfortable seating; which was a good thing, as the group sat in those seats discussing and strategising well into the night.
"We're never going to decide on a place to lure You-Know-Who to," Hestia Jones complained.
"It must be believable." Severus said, "The place chosen must be such that a credible reason can be given for Potter agreeing to meet Hermione there."
"The shrieking shack," the Potter in question suggested himself, "we've gone there a lot, it would be believable."
"And when people in Hogsmeade saw the evidence of Dark Spells, when they saw the Dark Mark, rising in the sky on the near horizon?" Severus countered.
"It would be disastrous," Hermione continued for him, "we need to think of a place where no innocent people will be caught in the crossfire."
"Crossfire?" Arthur asked.
"No, Arthur," Molly admonished, "this is not a Muggle war. Hermione meant spell crossfire. Didn't you dear?"
"Yes," Hermione said, giving Arthur an indulgent smile.
"If we might actually address the subject at hand?" Severus glared.
"How about Godric's Hollow? Harry would have every reason to go there," Charlie suggested.
"Muggles and wizards both would get caught in the crossfire there son," Arthur took pleasure in pointing out.
"Can anyone think of somewhere remote?" Minerva asked.
Severus and Hermione exchanged meaningful glances. Severus began, "There is a ramshackle abandoned building. Near a large undeveloped forest..."
Hermione continued, "...the only plausible way I can think to lure Harry there, is if we were to fake my kidnapping. If Harry were to receive a lock of my hair and a note. A note telling him to come alone, and tell no one - "
"No one would believe anyone would fall for 'come alone'," Kingsley intoned.
"It's unbelievable all right. Harry wouldn't go alone," Tonks agreed.
"He would," Hermione and Severus said in unison.
Everyone looked at the Snapes, and then at Harry.
"Erm, well, if it was real... if I got that note, and believed it, I might tell Ron. I might not too. I wouldn't tell Professor Dumbledore or anyone else, because I'd know he wouldn't let me go alone. I wouldn't want anyone to come and endanger Hermione. I'd probably go alone," Harry allowed. At the look on Hermione's face he admitted, "Yeah, I'd go alone, and I wouldn't tell anyone, even Ron. I'd just try to save her as soon as I got a note like that."
"This should work," Remus commented, "it's completely expected, knowing Harry's history." He smiled at Harry.
"And the Dark Lord knows his history and character as well, so there should be no question," Hermione concurred.
"How do we fit in?" Tonks asked.
"We shall brew enough Power Enhancing Potion for everyone present to take a four day dose, and carry an extra dose on their person," Severus began.
"Then I would think you could all conceal yourselves in the area before any of us arrive," Hermione said.
"Us?" Severus snapped.
"Excuse us for a minute please," Hermione said with feigned politeness. She exited the room through a side door. Severus rose fluidly and followed her, his robes billowing behind as he went.
"They don't need to cast any charms, and we still won't hear a word with wood this thick," Tonks groused.
"Not true," Charlie said.
"Where did you get that?" Molly accused shrilly.
"Fred and George of course," Charlie answered guiltily.
"We shouldn't - " Arthur began.
"Yeah, we should, what if they say something relevant? We've a right to know," Harry reasoned.
"Shush," Charlie said as he unfurled the extendable ear. "It's got a speaker device now so everyone should be able to hear wha ... " he trailed off as the extendable ear began to broadcast Severus' and Hermione's discussion.
"I knew you were going to - "
"If you knew - "
"Severus, I have to be there. The Dark Lord will not believe Harry will come to my rescue unless I am there," she said reasonably.
"You intend to ingest this dubious potion - "
"Hey! What does he mean dubious potion? If it's dubious - " Harry began.
"Ssshhh!"
"It has been thoroughly tested, it will cause no harm," Hermione snapped.
"It will harm no one else. It holds potential dangers for you!" Severus growled.
"You know I tested it on myself!" Hermione responded. "It absolutely safe and effective" she said firmly.
"Not necessarily for you," Severus snarled. "Or have you 'forgotten'?"
"Severus!" she exclaimed, with tears in her voice, "How could you?"
"Hermione, I would do, or say anything even if I have to be cruel, to keep you safe. You're not being reasonable!"
"Let's just assume it is safe for me, and continue this discussion ... " Hermione trailed off at the look of fury on Severus' face.
"I will not have you endanger yourself with the potion, and I will not have you endanger yourself by being in the thick of - "
Hermione glared at Severus, placing her hands on her hips. "I will NOT be dictated to Severus Snape," she raged.
Severus faced Hermione, with his fists clenched at his sides. "Then see SENSE! Would you risk our - " he bellowed.
"I would NEVER risk - "
"I KNOW that!"
"But, you said - "
"Hermione, I did not mean that. I know that you would not, however, - "
"Then what is the problem!"
"The likelihood of a spell causing unknown harm to you is increased exponentially!"
"It is NOT! because I will not take a spell. I will take the potion and shield myself - "
Minerva rose and went to the door. She rapped sharply. When Severus opened the door she intervened, "Stop! We have all heard every word you have said so you might as well come back out here and join us."
Severus gave Minerva such a murderous look at this pronouncement, that it could have withered stone. She paid him no mind, and went back into the room. He and Hermione both furiously followed her.
"Both of you stop it. Severus' concerns are valid Hermione, and Severus she is right. she needs to be there. We will simply have to work this out. Sit. Both of you. Now."
Severus sat elegantly and folded his arms across his chest, a sneer firmly in place on his face. Hermione threw herself into her seat and crossed her arms as well, her face set in a fierce glare.
"If we can continue," Minerva said tartly, "we'll assume that we can find a way to keep them safe Severus, and plan accordingly."
"There is no way to ensure - "
"Severus!" Minerva snapped. Severus fell silent. "And you don't look so pleased," Minerva turned to Hermione, "You will not take the potion, and we have yet to devise a plan for your safety."
"What are we missing?" Kingsley asked, "We need to know what we are getting into."
Minerva looked pointedly at Severus and Hermione, "If a solution is to be found..."
"Yes?" Severus said coldly.
"There is a need to know," Minerva said.
"Not if Hermione is not there," Severus returned.
"However, we are trying to find a way to safely include her," Minerva said.
Severus gaze turned icy. "Any risk to her is increased because she - "
"Congratulations dear," Molly interjected.
"Thank you," Hermione whispered.
Severus looked at Hermione. His expression softened. He leaned in. His deep voice no more than a breath in her ear, "Forgive me. Please. I only want to make sure that you are unharmed. We shall work something out." He took her hand under the table and caressed it with his thumb. Her hand clutched his. She closed her eyes as he continued to whisper to her. Her face relaxed into a soft smile. She turned to him and opened her eyes, their gazes locked. He nodded imperceptibly at her.
Hermione spoke in a loud clear voice, even though she continued to look into Severus' eyes, "I need to be present when we execute this plan, however, I will need to take extra precautions. I'm ... " she briefly wondered what word would be best to use and protect Severus' sensibilities, " ... with child." She smiled beatifically and continued, "consequently I shouldn't take the Power Enhancing Potion."
"How far along are you?" Molly asked casually.
"About a week," Hermione answered.
"How can you know so soon?" Molly was astonished. The men were looking anywhere but at the two conversationalists.
"I cast a fertility spell," Hermione answered.
Now the whole room looked openly at Hermione.
"If we could get back to - " Severus began.
He didn't have a chance to finish as everyone began congratulating them. Severus rolled his eyes as he and Hermione accepted congratulations form the group. Remus was the last to extend congratulations, "That's wonderful, Severus, Hermione." Severus glared challengingly at the werewolf, while Hermione thanked him sincerely. "I think I may have a solution to your problem. There is an obscure spell. It is not widely known or used. I haven't taught it because it seemed unnecessary... but now." Remus smiled. "It was developed hundreds of years ago to protect the young or injured - "
"Spare us the history lesson, and get to the point, Lupin," Severus drawled.
"Certainly Severus. It's a protection spell that can be cast on someone else. Allow me to demonstrate." Remus pointed his wand at Severus and incanted, "Adfero Tutamen!"
Severus scowled. Remus laughed and cast several varied hexes at him in quick succession. Severus was unaffected by any of Remus' hexes.
"Much the same as Protego," Severus noted. "Try it with this." Severus removed a phial from an inner pocket. "This," he said to the group, "is the Power Enhancing Potion."
"Are the effects instantaneous?" Remus asked.
"They are," Severus and Hermione answered together.
Remus cancelled his spell and turned to Harry. "Harry would you do the honours?" Remus asked. "Please, drink the potion, and recast the spell on Severus exactly as I did."
After a brief grimace at the taste, Harry faced Professor Snape and cast, "Adfero Tutamen!".
"I shall test it then, hmm?" Lupin asked.
"By all means," Severus responded silkily.
Remus shouted, "Imperio!"
"Remus!" Minerva said in consternation.
Remus ignored her and concentrated on his spell. Nothing happened. When he was through he smiled at Severus, and faced Minerva. "We want to test things that Hermione might actually face," he said reasonably.
"Really, Lupin," Severus said casually, "just how confident are you?"
"Completely, your potions have never failed me," Remus answered firmly.
"Than surely you will not mind if I test it?"
"Be my guest, Severus. Harry if you will cast the spell on me, just as you did Professor Snape?"
Harry drew his wand again, pointed it at Remus, and incanted, "Adfero Tutamen!"
Severus smirked. "If you would move away from the others," he said smoothly.
Remus moved and stood alone.
"You are sure?" Severus asked.
"Yes, Severus. Test it."
Severus pointed his wand and incanted, "Imperio." After a couple of minutes, nothing happened. "Let's try again, shall we?"
"Of course," Remus replied.
Severus forcefully incanted, "Crucio." He ignored the shocked gasps.
"Severus!" Minerva exclaimed.
Remus just shrugged and smiled.
"One more," Severus asked silkily.
"Do it," Remus said seriously.
Severus concentrated and raised his wand.
Hermione put a hand on his wand arm, as Tonks spoke up.
"Hey!" Tonks cried, "There are Aurors here you know."
"I must agree," Kingsley added.
"Now what makes you think I was going to cast the killing curse?" Severus asked silkily.
"Weren't you?" Remus contributed.
"Of course I was."
"Don't make us take you both into custody," Kingsley said.
"You wouldn't get far," Hermione quipped.
"What?" Tonks asked.
"You entered into a verbal magical contract. Taking Severus and Remus into custody for something done in the interest of our goal, would constitute a betrayal."
"What did we agree to?" Tonks asked.
"Nothing too dire, I assure you," Severus said. However, his tone and expression said that his statement was far from the truth.
"The agreement as you know," Hermione began, "was to work together to bring about the downfall of The Dark Lord. That includes total secrecy, and loyalty to everyone in the group," Hermione replied.
The group silently digested this information. It didn't seem to much to ask.
Hermione turned to Severus, "And you," she smiled indulgently at Severus, much to the horror of the others, "there will be no killing curses."
"We need - "
"No."
"Hermione," Remus spoke up, "it's safe."
"I said no killing curses. We do NOT need to test that. If it withstands the Cruciatus, it will withstand anything. Just like my shield did in Hogsmeade, when I cast it after taking the Power Enhancing Potion."
"Quite," Minerva agreed.
At Remus' instructions, Harry pointed his wand first at Professor Snape, and then at Remus. He in turn cancelled his power-enhanced protection spells; as he had seen Remus do with his original unenhanced protection spell.
"If the one who casts the spell is under the influence of the Power Enhancing Potion this spell should protect Hermione as well as her own shield spell did in Hogsmeade," Remus said.
"That's that," Hermione said with a satisfied smile.
A quiet, "Hmm," was Severus response.
Severus waved his wand and transparent, three dimensional blueprints of the abandoned building where they would trap The Dark Lord, including the surrounding areas; appeared like a hologram in the air above the table. "James and I, along with Pettigrew, will Apparate with The Dark Lord here," Severus indicated the second floor room where he and Hermione had been taken. "Hermione should already be there waiting for us. I will suggest that the other Death Eaters arrive by portkey. If The Dark Lord agrees with this, and I believe he will. I will create four portkeys. The Death Eaters will arrive in groups of three. They will think that they are arriving side by side. However, I will send them to separate places. Shacklebolt, Jones, and Lupin will be here," Severus indicated a forested area on the west facing side of the building, "You three will expect the three Lestranges to appear just outside of your covering of trees," Severus moved his finger to an area right in front. "Tonks, and Molly, you will be hiding here," Severus pointed to a spot on the South side of the house, "you will surprise Goyle, Nott, and Mulciber." Severus turned to Emmeline Vance, "You and Arthur can expect to emerge from here," Severus indicated a thicket on the North side of the building, "and you will meet Macnair, Rockwood, and Jugson." Severus' long finger came to rest on the forested front of the building, "Minerva, and Charlie will be just inside the trees here, waiting for Avery, Dolohov, and Crabbe."
Everyone nodded seriously as they studied the map.
"When you have taken out your targets," Hermione said, "you will contact me. I shall be in constant contact with all the teams."
Severus looked at her questioningly.
"Well, it just occurred to me. If I co-ordinate the teams, I will know who needs help. If one team is at a point to move in to assist, I can send them to the right place. It's better than just sitting in a protective shield doing nothing! Which I know is what you would want me to be doing," she said.
"How will you - "
"Muggle technology," she said with a smirk. "I'll have it ready for demonstration and practice at the next meeting."
"Like your field packs?" Severus asked.
"Better," she said firmly. She addressed the group and explained, "I have an uncle who is in the Muggle military. The equipment will function well, as this building," she indicated the holographic style blue prints, "has none of the complex spells on it that Hogwarts has. As I was saying," she continued, "when you have taken out your targets, you will contact me. I will move you to assist those who have yet to vanquish their opponents. That way we can keep everyone in as useful a position as possible."
Another hour and a half later Minerva said, "Look at the time. If I don't leave Albus may ask some difficult questions."
The group all noticed that is was nearing midnight.
"We should meet again soon," Severus began, "however, I think it might be difficult for some to get away at the weekend. Perhaps ... "
"... we should try for Monday evening. If that works for everyone?" Hermione finished.
There was a general murmur of assent.
"We'll confirm with the spell, so check your items for the time on Monday," Hermione spoke loudly.
"Good, I'll see you all then," Minerva said as she took her leave. The group broke up, and went their separate ways.
Author's Notes:
Hermione could know that she is pregnant that early on because ... well, because it's magic. She cast a power-enhanced fertility spell, followed by a visit to Poppy. I am assuming that with advances in magical medicine, detection is possible at a much earlier stage than it is for Muggles.
In the next chapter of Albus' Scheme : Severus goes Quidditch shopping, er, yes, Quidditch shopping... not! and exactly what does Minerva expect Severus to do? Could the two be related. Muggle equipment, and Draco rears his pretty head, la, la-la, la-la, (author hums and pretends she knows what Draco is up to).
It may take somewhat longer to update. I am now attempting two fics at once. -insert nervous little laugh- I hope to do a chapter of The Incident In Hogsmeade (the first sequel to The Incident In The Great Hall on Ashwinder) followed by a chapter of this; Albus' Scheme. Then another chapter of The Incident In Hogsmeade, then another of this one, and so on.
Latin Translations:
hunc locum esse éúãåöîå éñçî declaro, in quem mala periculaque omnia non intrabunt :
I declare this place my Fortress and my Refuge, in which all manner of evils and dangers shall not enter
producto atrum : Bring to light the dark
extraho atrum : remove the dark
purgo atrum : cleanse the dark
inreto atrum : trap the dark
remaneo luminarium solus : light only remains
adfero : give, impart
tutamen : defense, protection