Severus Snape and the Reluctant Hero
Disclaimer: All characters in this story (except for Ravenna...Snape) belong to JKR, not me. This is my take on how our beloved Severus Snape came to be the way he is. Pre HBP but with elements from same. This is my version of year 6.
A/N: Please R&R, let me know if I should continue to post chapters...
Chapter Seven
Voldemort Calls
Over the next several weeks, Ravenna and the other professors couldn't help but notice the students increasing complaints about Professor Snape. He was acting even more hateful towards all but Slytherins than usual. Ravenna had gone to visit Professor McGonagall in her classroom. "Minerva, I am really beginning to worry about the students safety. It seems 'Severus' is going out of his way to cause as much distress as possible. Neville told me yesterday that he was made to stay for four hours of detention for not stoppering his potion sample straight.
"I know, I have spoken to Albus about this nonsense. He has assured he will be meeting with 'Severus' this afternoon to straighten him out. He is in with the 6th years right now."
"We have to get this over with soon." Ravenna commented absently then waived to Minerva and made her way back to her classroom.
She had barely seated herself when she heard a commotion in the hallway outside her classroom door. She rose from her seat to investigate. When she reached the hallway she caught a glimpse of 'Severus' passing her door, followed by the entire 6th year Potions class. Spotting Draco straggling behind she called to him. With a sneer on his face he approached her. "What happened?" she asked. He responded barely containing his amusement. "Granger used the wrong ingredient in her potion and it blew up in her face." Then he turned and followed the group. Ravenna was horrified. She broke into a run to catch up.
"Professor Snape" she said as she caught up to him. "Is Hermione going to be okay?" She tried to look at her, but her face was completely covered.
"She will be fine once Madam Pomfrey attends to her. She was busy talking and put the wrong combination together." He sneered almost happily.
Angered at his response she turned to the rest of the class. "Madam Pomfrey will not require assistance from any of you, return to your houses!" She said coldly, and then proceeded to follow to the hospital wing.
Moments later Hermione was lying on a hospital bed being attended by Madam Pomfrey. "This does not look good." She said gravely. "It is going to take some time for her to recover from these burns." It was obvious Hermione was sobbing by the movement of her chest and shoulders but she could not be heard due to the bandages on her head. "I am going to have to keep her unconscious so she can heal adequately."
'Severus' smiled darkly. Ravenna was deeply worried. They had to get this imposter out of the castle.
"If you will excuse me Madam Pomfrey, I have been asked to meet with the headmaster after my lesson." Severus stated flatly then turned to leave.
Once 'Severus' had left the hospital wing Ravenna, who had watched him leave, turned again to Madam Pomfrey. "Poppy, will she really be okay?"
"Yes, but it will take her some time to recover from these burns. I can only hope there will be no scars though." Poppy said deeply concerned.
'Severus' stood outside the gargoyle tapping his foot impatiently. He did not know the password. 'Damn, why didn't I think to ask' he thought. Suddenly, the gargoyle leapt aside and Albus appeared where it had just stood.
"Ah, Severus, good. I was just coming to get you. I thought perhaps you forgot about our meeting. Please, join me in my office." Albus smiled slightly. Without speaking 'Severus' followed.
Once they were in the office, Albus sat behind his desk looking neutrally at Severus for a moment before speaking. "Severus, it has come to my attention that you are being rather out of sorts with your students. I have received many complaints about your treatment of others. Is there anything you would like to discuss?" he stated mildly.
"No headmaster, there is nothing I wish to discuss with you. Thank you." 'Severus' said tightly.
"Very well then Severus, but be advised…'" he paused looking intently over her glasses for a moment. "Should I continue to receive complaints I will have no choice but to relieve you of your responsibilities."
"Yes, headmaster." Was his only response. Without waiting to be dismissed 'Severus' left.
'Severus' stormed away from the entrance to the headmaster's office and went directly to the dungeons. After meeting briefly with Malfoy, he left the castle.
Severus sat upright on the cot he was laying in. The room was completely dark and he had no idea where he was. As he grabbed the covers with his left hand he heard movements to his right. Alarmed, he took a deep calming breath and a moment to shield his mind and then turned his head towards the sound.
"Imperio!" was hissed into the darkness. Severus immediately froze. "Snape" was spoken, barely audible.
"Yes my Lord." Severus responded, dropping from the cot to his knees.
"You shall return immediately to Hogwarts. Your wife is now adequately recovered and is ready to return." Voldemort said with triumph in his voice.
"Yes my Lord." Was Severus's stiff response.
Ravenna was readying herself for bed still deeply concerned about Hermione. She had met with Harry and advised him he must take extra care to keep himself shielded from Voldemort's thoughts. She had suggested that perhaps since 'Severus' seemed to be under Voldemort's control that he too was in greater danger. Now she was taking her own advise. She sat quietly on the bed envisioning a relaxing swim in the lake as Severus had previously suggested. This time though, it was anything but relaxing. She could not help worrying about her husband who had been with Voldemort for several weeks now. 'Was he still alive?' "No, stop thinking like that!" she shouted to herself. "Thoughts like this will only get you and Harry killed, now concentrate!" she continued to berate herself. Taking a deep breath and releasing it slowly she tried again to clear her mind. She was just beginning to relax when she felt it. Looking down at her stomach, she sat perfectly still… waiting. There it was again, a flutter. She gently laid her hand over the spot and felt a slight pressure on her hand, coming from her stomach. She felt her daughter move within her. She was elated for a moment, then sad that Severus was not with her to experience it. She was startled from her thoughts by a knock on her door.
Rising slowly from the bed, she grabbed he bulky outer cloak and wrapped it around herself before answering. Now that she was only about three months away from giving birth her expanding abdomen was more noticeable. She uncharmed the door as she reached for the knob and cautiously opened it just enough to look out.
"What can I do for you this evening?" she asked evenly.
"Might I come in to talk to you for a moment?" Came the surprisingly polite question.
She sighed deeply, pocketing her wand but keeping her hand on it and stepped aside.
As soon as the door closed Severus drew his wand. Ravenna was alarmed and instantly drew hers as well.
Severus turned to fully face the door, pointing his wand. "Impervious!" He annunciated firmly. Ravenna backed quickly away from him, wand still in hand.
"Rae…it's me." Severus said evenly, slowly lowering his wand. She stood staring at him, wand still pointed at him. "I am so sorry to alarm you, but I could not speak until I was positive we are secure." He was now smiling at his beautiful wife.
When the shock wore off she lowered her wand and ran to him.
"Severus, I was so worried. Are you alright?" she said as she wrapped herself into his waiting embrace.
"I am fine now, love. The Dark Lord felt it necessary to keep me away. How long have I been gone?" he said quietly into the top of her head.
"Almost a month. Who was that bastard that was here?" she said into his chest. "He hurt Hermione."
"I don't know. That information was not shared with me. I am currently under the effects of the Imperius Curse and have been advised that you are about ready to return to the Dark Lord. What has happened?"
Ravenna guided him to the bed. Once they were both seated she proceeded to fill him in on everything that had happened over the past few weeks. She also advised him that he is now on probation.
"If I ever find out who was here, I will kill him myself." Severus hissed through clinched teeth.
"You will do no such thing. I will not have a murderer for a husband." She responded adamantly.
He was about to reply when he noticed a strange look on her face. "What is it?" he asked concerned. Without responding, she grabbed his hand and placed it on her abdomen. He looked at her confused for a moment, the he felt something. "Is that…" Before he could finish the question she nodded her head.
"Just before you knocked on the door, I felt it for the first time. I was thinking about you, wishing you could feel her too." She beamed. Severus smiled back at her. They both sat there for a few more moments, perfectly still.
"Is she doing well? Have you been making regular visits to Poppy?" There was so much he needed to know.
She is doing perfectly. The only concern Poppy has expressed is about the amount of stress about." She responded giving Severus a knowing look. Poppy had been fussing over her since she found out she was pregnant. Severus pulled her back into another embrace. He too wanted to alleviate her of this stress.
"No more talking tonight." She said firmly as she stood to remove her cloak. She then lowered herself to her knees and began to remove Severus's boots. "We are going to bed now." She said at his questioning look.
Without any more words Ravenna continued to undress Severus. When he wore nothing but his underclothes he stood.
"I must shower first." He said as she tried to push him back. He quickly stood and proceeded to the bathroom. He showered quickly, dried and then dressed only in the black silk pajama pants that stayed in this room. "Much better now." He smiled as he came back to the bed.
She wasted no time pulling him down onto the bed. As soon as he was lying completely, she embraced him tightly. She then grabbed a handful of his still damp black hair and pulled him in for a kiss. After several moments he pulled gently away from her, asking breathlessly "Are you sure we should do this?" concern clear in his voice.
"Poppy has informed me it is perfectly safe until the last month. As that is still a few months away, I believe we have some lost time to make up for." She smiled seductively.
Several hours later Ravenna was sleeping soundly in his embrace, her head on his chest just over his heart and the rest of her body firmly pushed against his left side. He had his left arm wrapped around her back, hand resting lightly on her abdomen. Having been kept unconscious for nearly a month he was unable to sleep, so he was perfectly satisfied to lay here holding his wife and child. He dreaded the conversation he would have to have with her tomorrow, but that would have to wait. He was not going to discuss this with her until Albus was completely informed. Her movements interrupted his train of thought.
"Have you been awake long?" came her quiet question.
"Love, I have been asleep for nearly a month." Was all he said in response, she frowned at him. "I am fine, really." He said reassuringly. "It's still early, go back to sleep." He said lovingly, kissing her lightly on the head. She sighed then lay her head back on his chest. A short time later she was sleeping again.
Ravenna awoke startled, she was alone in her bed. She sat up quickly as she could and scanned the room with her eyes. As she pulled the covers off her, she heard the rustling of parchment. Spotting the scroll on the covers she picked it up gently and unrolled it. It read 'Rae – I had to meet with Albus, didn't want to wake you. I will see you at breakfast. – Love, Severus. She sighed; she was beginning to get an uneasy feeling. She showered quickly, dressed and headed for the Great Hall. When she arrived, she was a little surprised to see Albus and Severus already seated. They both looked in her direction momentarily, then continued their quiet conversation. She greeted them both as she sat. "Good morning, Professors."
They replied in unison "Good Morning Professor Gryffin."
Now Albus spoke. "Professor Gryffin, would you please join Professor Snape and I in my office after breakfast. Professor McGonagall has consented to teach your class this morning." His voice even.
"Of course headmaster." Now, having lost her appetite, she pushed her plate away. Severus looked sharply at her.
Leaning slightly toward her he said quietly. "You need to eat." She glared at him in response and grabbed an orange from the fruit bowl in front of her.
When breakfast was finished she followed Albus and Severus through the door behind the staff table. With no discussion they all proceeded to Albus's office.
Once inside, he directed them up to his private study. She was really beginning to hate this particular room. Every time she had been here she was given bad news. She sat beside Severus on the sofa and waited for one of them to speak. Severus put his hand on her shoulder, pulling her closer to him.
"Ravenna, Severus informs me that Voldemort will soon be summoning you." He said gravely. Ravenna was dumbstruck. "You must prepare yourself."
She turned to face Severus. "You knew this last night, and you didn't tell me."
"I wanted you to be adequately rested before having to face this." He said apologetically.
She stared at him for a moment, then turned to Albus. "Grandfather, I will be ready."
"There is more that you need to know child." Albus replied levelly. She looked at him in silent question, then turned to Severus.
"Rae, I am instructed to take you to the Dark Lord's lair, once there we will have to consummate the marriage." He started, then hesitated.
"What is it that you don't want to tell me?" she asked quietly, sure she really did not want to know the answer.
"The act will require a witness." He finished quietly.
"WHAT!" she shouted, "We are going to be watched while we make love." She was horrified.
"I am afraid so. The Dark Lord wants to be thoroughly convinced you are truly my wife and truly a Death Eater before you are to be presented." He shrugged with a pained look on his face.
"What kind of sick…" she started to rant, then calmed herself. Losing control of her emotions would not help here. "Fine, after we, uh… I will be taken to Voldemort. Then what?"
"You will be expected to kneel before him and swear your allegiance, just as you did when you originally took the mark." He said, still in a quite voice. "Most likely, he will attempt to enter your mind, you must take great care to prepare for this. He is quite forceful."
"Do you expect this to be soon?" she had just finished speaking the question when her arm began to burn. Instinctively, she grabbed her arm and was not at all surprised to see Severus mimic her action. She looked at him wryly.
Albus rose quickly. "You must go. Severus, I will have your classes cancelled for today." Then he escorted them both down the stairs and out of his office. Within moments they were walking through the Hogwarts gates. No sooner than they were off the grounds they apparated, appearing instantly in Riddle Manor.
Several Death Eaters dressed in their black robes and masks greeted them. Wordlessly one of them gestured for them to follow to a room down the hall. The room was furnished only with a bed and an armchair in the far corner. Both Severus and Ravenna knew what was expected. Without speaking they undressed to their underclothes, Ravenna careful to keep her back to the witness, and climbed under the covers. A short time later the witness left allowing them to dress in private.
Once they were again fully clothed Severus opened the door and allowed Ravenna to precede him. She paused outside the door, waiting for him to lead the way. They were back in the room in which they first appeared. Ravenna stood anxiously waiting for what would be next.
"Ravenna Snape." Came the quiet hiss from behind. "Welcome home."
She spun and dropped to her knee, the others in the room also dropped on their knees.
"Thank you my Lord, it is good to be back." She said as sincerely as she could.
"I had feared you lost to us. I am so glad I am mistaken." Voldemort responded.
"I am honored." She replied.
"Are you ready to assist me furthering my cause?" She nodded in reply. "Most excellent. You and your husband will come with me to discuss matters." He said quietly then turned toward his study. Once inside he instructed both to sit by the fire. "It is most fortunate that your grandfather has chosen you to instruct young Mr. Potter to protect himself from me." He began, a gleeful expression on his snakelike face. "You must misguide him so I can use him to destroy Dumbledore once and for all."
"As you command my Lord. Please, tell me what to do." She responded with feigned excitement.
"Encourage him to open himself to the dreams he will experience. Since I have been successful in reaching you, I can most certainly reach him." He smiled.
"As you command." Was all she said in response. She glanced briefly at Severus who was seated on her right.
"Snape" Severus bowed his head slightly at Voldemort when he spoke his name. "You will resume your brewing efforts on the modified Wolfsbane potion. I shall require it soon."
"Yes, my Lord." Severus hissed in reply.
"Now, both of you return to that accursed school. I will summon you again soon." Voldemort rose from his chair, Ravenna and Severus both dropped to their knees until he left. Without speaking, they followed to the room where they had arrived and apparated back to Hogwarts.
They proceeded back to the castle and then to her apartment. Neither spoke until they were inside and Severus had erected the Impervious charm. "I need to take a shower." Were the first words out of her mouth.
"Now you understand why I do that." He shot back with a smirk. "May I join you?" he added sensuously. She smiled and raised her hand to him.
After showering and dressing in clean clothes they left her apartment to meet with Albus. After sharing with him the instructions Voldemort had given them they all three left for the Great Hall. They had returned just in time for dinner.
As they proceed to their seats Ravenna caught Harry's eyes. He had that look again. She knew he wanted to talk to her, to ask her a question. She subtly raised her right hand to her face pressing her index finger to her lips. Harry nodded almost imperceptibly and turned away.
Once she was seated she leaned toward Severus and spoke quietly. "Harry wants to talk to us. Should we meet him in my office after dinner?" Severus shook his head, looking past her.
"I cannot. It would seem my movements are being carefully scrutinized." He responded deeply. Ravenna looked at Severus then redirected her gaze to the direction he was looking. She was mildly surprised to find Draco staring at them both.
"I see." She responded without looking at him. "Will you make it back tonight?"
"I do not know. I will have to meet with my prefects to find out what they are up to." He said flatly.
Without further conversation they proceeded to eat their dinner.
Once dinner was finished Severus rose from the table and walked down the Great Hall toward the Slytherin table. He stopped directly behind Draco Malfoy, who had been laughing about something and gesturing with his hands. When he realized Professor Snape was standing behind him he stopped laughing and turned to look up at him. "Mr. Malfoy, come with me please." Severus said in a low menacing voice. Draco rose from the table and followed. Ravenna remained seated until Severus and Malfoy cleared the doors out of the Great Hall. She then rose and looked pointedly at Harry. He nodded and left through the same doors Severus had just passed through. Ravenna turned and departed through the door behind the staff table.
She was surprised to find Harry already sitting in her office when she arrived. He must have run the whole way. When he realized she had entered the room he stood and made to speak. She raised he hand at him, closed the office door and sealed it with an Impervious charm before speaking. "Harry, I am fine." Was the first thing she said.
"Ravenna, where were you today? I was worried. You were at breakfast, then not in class."
"I had no choice Harry. Severus and I were summoned this morning. We had to go." She said looking intensely into his eyes. "Harry, things have just gotten worse. I have been instructed to advise you to open yourself to the dreams you will be experiencing. Voldemort is going to try to get to you in your sleep. Severus and I have informed Albus of this and he is reluctant for you to do this. He fears if Voldemort gets in he will take control of you. Are your ready?" Harry stared at her for a moment, he did not know if he was.
"I don't know." He whispered. Ravenna moved to him and pulled him in for a hug. Harry was stunned for a moment, the he returned it. It was now that he remembered she was pregnant. He could feel her hard belly against him. He pulled back from her, still looking down.
"Yes, I know. Why do you think I have been dressing this way for so long. If you don't know, you don't see it." She smiled at him. She really was starting to get big around the middle. Fortunately, Severus didn't seem to mind. Now her expression changed. "Harry, you must still take care to protect yourself. Allow the images to come, but don't surrender your control of them." He looked at her with a deep frown on his face. "Here, let me demonstrate. I am going to force images into your mind. Allow yourself to see them, but when you feel me trying to see what is in you mind, block me. Okay?" Harry nodded, unsure of what to expect. Ravenna turned and walked away from him. When she turned she was pointing her wand at him. "Legilimens!" she said loudly. Instantly Harry was seeing images he knew were not his. He watched intently as he witnessed a duel. He was fascinated at the veracity with which the curses were flying. Then he noticed it, his mind was being probed. Quickly he envisioned himself slamming a trunk closed and the images were gone. Shaking his head to clear it he looked back at Ravenna. She was on the floor. He ran to her, grabbing her by the shoulders. She smiled at him. "Very good Harry, very good." She said as she allowed him to help her up.
"Are you okay?" he asked apologetically.
She just smiled. She so wished she could see the look on Voldemort's face when he gets thrown on his ass. "I am fine. Now, let's get you back to your dormitory." She said proudly as she escorted him back.
Severus was sitting at his desk in his office, Draco standing opposite him. "Speak!" was all he said. Draco stared at him for a moment.
"What is it you want to know, sir?" Draco said respectfully.
"Tell me whatever it is you are supposed to?" Snape hissed
"I am commanded to watch you closely and report to my father the progress you and Madam Snape make with Potter. He managed to avoid father's accident."
"Explain. What accident?" 'So, it was Lucius that was here in my place'
"Father mislabeled the ingredients Granger was to use for the reducing potion we were brewing in class. The cauldron was supposed to explode and kill both her and Potter, but the explosion was not intense enough. Granger got landed in hospital thought. Serves her right, the filthy little Mudblood!" Draco was sneering now.
Severus nodded before speaking, "Then you are aware of my being married to the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor?" Draco nodded in reply. "And you know that I will be residing in her quarters, not here in the dungeon?" again Draco nodded. "Very well then, same as I told you before. Should you require my presence, just come to my office. I will get here as quickly as possible." He concluded. Draco bowed slightly then turned and left.
Severus remained seated at his desk after Malfoy left. He needed to puzzle out what was going on here. Lucius replaced him at Hogwarts and attempted to murder Harry using a potions accident for cover, the Dark Lord wanted him to work on the Wolfsbane potion again, Ravenna has been instructed to misguide Harry. This didn't make sense. Maybe after some sleep it would. He stood and left the office. Heading eagerly to his wife's arms.
Ravenna was already in the bed when Severus came through the door. He looked at her intently before crossing the room. She could read the concern on his face.
"I'm fine, just tired." She said with a smile. "Got knocked on my ass." He flew to her side.
"What do you mean?" he growled.
"I was demonstrating to Harry how to allow Voldemort to project images into his mind, but not allow him to extract them. He got it pretty well. The force he used to block the invasion was considerable. I really am fine." She finished softly, stoking his cheek with her hand. "What have you learned?"
He knew she was redirecting his attention and he allowed it. "I have learned who was here in my place, that Hermione's accident was no accident and that there are others who are aware that you are in fact my wife." He said with a smug grin, then started to rise from the bed. She grabbed him by the wrists, preventing him from standing.
"You cannot just dump all that and not explain." She growled at him.
"Perhaps I could dress for bed and tell you all while you are in my arms?" he said seductively. She returned his smile and allowed him to rise. Once he had changed his clothes and was lying next to her he continued.
"Okay, in order. Lucius Malfoy was my replacement, Hermione's accident was actually a murder attempt. Lucius mislabeled the potion ingredients. The resulting explosion was intended to kill both her and Harry and Draco is aware that you and I are married." She just stared at him.
"You found out all that in one conversation?" she was astonished.
"Draco fears me, with good reason. He knows better than to tell me anything but the truth. He has been instructed to observe us closely and report to Lucius. We must both take care to seem extra devious with our planning." He said quietly.
She just nodded her head. "We can wait until morning to share this with Grandfather, right?"
"Yes, for now we both need to get some sleep." He said quietly as he wrapped he arms more tightly around her.
Albus paced restlessly in his office. Since Severus and Ravenna had returned he had received three owls, each with news more disturbing than the one before. The first had informed him that the Ministry was investigating Harry, the second was that Perkins – Arthur Weasley's office mate – may have been replaced and the third, and most disturbing of all, was that Remus Lupin had failed to report in. He was milling over in his head what Severus had reported about the Wolfsbane potion, now Remus's whereabouts are unknown.
Harry was tossing in his bed. He was in a graveyard, a flash of green light, Cedric lying spread-eagled on the ground – dead. He knew what was coming next, Voldemort was about to rise. Suddenly the images changed. He was flying on his Firebolt, clutching the golden snitch. Looking around at the crowd occupying the seats in the Quidditch patch he saw Cedric smiling at him, cheering. Harry was confused. 'Isn't he dead?' Then he heard a whisper. "He doesn't have to be, we can bring him back. Together we have the power." Harry chuckled maliciously in his sleep.
Harry awoke agitated, he had not slept well the night before. He snapped at Ron when he had abruptly yanked back the curtain on his four poster. Without speaking a word to anyone in the room he dressed quickly and went to the Great Hall for breakfast. As he entered he found himself scanning the entire room before settling his gaze on Ravenna. Sensing his gaze, she turned to him and smiled, then resumed her conversation with Severus. Harry continued to glare at her as he took his seat next to Ron and Hermione. Ron was still not speaking to him. Hermione attempted to engage Harry in conversation regarding the possible defense against the Unforgivables but was ignored by Harry. After they completed breakfast they all headed off towards the dungeons for Potions class. Harry still did not talk to either of them.
He continued to ignore them through the rest of the day. By the time dinner was over Ron and Hermione were so angry with Harry they left for the common room without waiting for him. Harry scowled at their retreating forms, then rose and headed toward the Ravenna's office for another occlumency lesson. When he entered her office, not bothering to knock first, she jerked her head up at him.
"Harry… you startled me. You really shouldn't just walk in here like that." She snapped.
"Sorry." He said insincerely. She just looked at him, puzzled.
"Is something bothering you?" She finally asked.
"No!" He snapped back.
"You seem very agitated tonight, are you sure nothing's wrong?" She said extremely concerned now.
"I'm fine, just didn't sleep well last night." He said a little less harshly.
"Did you prepare yourself for bed last night?"
"I did exactly what you told me to do. I did have some strange dreams that I couldn't really remember though." He responded flatly.
"Well, maybe we should just concentrate on you relaxing for tonight. Perhaps you are just over tired." Ravenna said quietly.
"Whatever, can we just get on with it?" He snapped back. She just stared at him with a puzzled look on her face.
'What the bloody hell is going on with him tonight?' She thought to herself then rose from her chair to stand beside Harry. He tensed as she approached. "On second thought Harry, I think maybe it would be best if you just turn in. We can have your lesson tomorrow. Don't forget to prepare before you go to sleep." Harry just rolled his eyes. After a moment he turned and left.
Severus was at the end of the corridor when he spotted Harry leaving the classroom. It was far too soon for him to be leaving. He swiftly approached the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, meeting up with Ravenna at the doorway. "Why is he leaving already. You couldn't have completed his lesson so quickly?" He whispered.
She responded quietly. "I sent him off to his dormitory, he is quite out of sorts tonight."
"Yes, I noticed he has been acting strangely today. Did he say anything?"
"All he said was that he didn't sleep well last night, something about strange dreams that he couldn't remember. Do you think maybe…" She allowed her voice to trail off.
"There is always that possibility. We must take care with him for a few days." Severus stated cautiously. "For now all we can do is observe his behavior."
Over the next few weeks Harry's behavior became increasingly aggressive. He had taken to shoving his way through the halls between classes and snapping at his friends. By this time everyone was going out of their way to avoid him completely. All the students were queued up for Potions when Harry finally arrived. Hefting his bag more firmly on his shoulder he threw himself against the wall waiting for the door to open.
A few moments later the students were taking their seats quietly. Severus waived his wand at the chalkboard and instantly there was a list of ingredients. They all quickly gathered the listed ingredients and waited for his instruction. Once all the students were again looking at him, Severus waived his wand again at the chalkboard and the board changed to the brewing instructions. Severus was walking the classroom observing the brewing, tapping the tip of his wand on his left palm, paying close attention to Harry. Although Harry was a competent brewer, Severus never let on to it.
Near the end of class Harry was extremely agitated, the potion he was brewing was supposed to be viscous and bright red. Harry's was water thin and pink. He was hissing quietly and scanning the brewing directions on the board. He just couldn't figure out what he had missed. Hermione leaned over and whispered to Harry, "Try adding the dandelion root."
Harry glared at her then said in a hiss, "I don't need your help, you filthy little Mudblood."
Hermione glared at him, eyes wide and lips pursed. She slammed her book shut and threw it in her bag, then moved to sit closer to Ron. The slamming of the book caused Harry's vial of frog bile to spill. Harry stood up so quickly the stool he was sitting on slammed to the floor. Before he could do anything more Severus was standing behind him.
"Problem, Potter?" He hissed in his ear. Harry glared at him. "Time is up, it seems that your potion is again incorrect." Severus then waived his wand over Harry's cauldron and caused the potion inside to vanish. Harry stared at the empty cauldron in disbelief, then roughly shoved it off the table.
Severus clutched his wand tightly in his hand, staring coldly at Harry. Harry returned his glare. The entire class held its collective breath.
"WHAT THE BLOODY HELL DID YOU DO THAT FOR?" Harry yelled at Severus, Severus continued to glare at him.
"I think you had better get a hold of yourself, Potter." Severus growled.
"I'd rather get hold of your neck, Snivellius!" Harry shouted in response.
"IN MY OFFICE, NOW!" Severus barked back at Harry. "The rest of you, out!" he finished. The rest of the class quickly packed their bags and departed the classroom. Once the last student had left, Severus waived his wand at the door, slamming it shut and locking it.
He then turned and walked briskly into his office. Harry leaning against his desk, staring at the doorway. Severus stared back for a moment, trying to discern the look in Harry's eye.
"Potter, you have some explaining to do." Severus stated quietly.
Harry continued to glare at him then finally responded. "I have nothing to say to you, Snivellus."
"That shall be the last time you refer to me by THAT name Potter, understood?" Severus hissed. Harry just rolled his eyes at Severus.
Severus was instantly next to Harry. He grabbed the back of Harry's robe and shoved him forward.
"You and I are going to have a little conversation with the headmaster!" Severus growled as he pushed Harry toward the classroom door. Severus maintained his hold on Harry's robe the entire way to Dumbledore's office.
Albus was pacing in his office, having just received several owls advising of increasing Death Eater attacks. He had also received an owl from Kingsley Shacklebolt informing him they were still unable to locate Remus. His pacing was interrupted by a knock on his door.
"Enter!" he called evenly and was alarmed at what he saw when the door opened.
"Headmaster, we have a problem." Severus stated flatly.
"I see." Albus said quietly. "And what might that problem be?" now he was looking at Harry over his glasses.
"Our young Mr. Potter has found it necessary to act disrespectfully and insult me in my class." Severus hissed staring at Harry.
"He started it!" Harry barked in response.
Albus redirected his gaze at Severus. "Thank you, Professor Snape. I will have a little talk with Harry. Was there anything else?" he said quietly, then looked back at Harry.
"No, headmaster. Thank you." Severus said respectfully as he turned and departed without looking at Harry. Albus looked up to watch Severus leave, once he had closed the office door Albus directed Harry to sit in the chair he conjured.
"Harry… is there something you wish to tell me?" Albus said quietly.
Harry hissed at him. Albus's gaze intensified. After several moments Harry could no longer hold Albus's gaze. He began to squirm in the chair.
"I ask again, Harry" Albus paused until Harry was again looking at him. "Is there…"
"NO!" Harry shouted before Albus could finish asking the question. Albus again looked him directly in the eye. Harry leapt from the chair and lunged for the desk. Albus raised his arm and with a quick flick of his wrist Harry was hurled back across the room.
Harry sat stunned on the floor just in front of the office door. Abruptly he jumped up and drew his wand. Albus also stood, waiting for Harry to make his next move. Harry had his wand pointed directly at Albus's heart, chest heaving. "I should have done this years ago." Harry finally hissed. "Ava…."
"ENOUGH!" Albus shouted, the books in the cases vibrating from the force of his voice. Harry froze, the wand falling from his hand. He stared confused at Albus for a moment and then he looked at the wand on the floor. "Harry." This time spoken quietly. Harry slowly looked up.
"What am I doing here, sir?" Harry spoke in a shaken whisper. At this Albus smiled.
"It would seem, Harry that you have been under Voldemort's influence for a while now. Your behavior has been quite… unlike you." He said quietly. "Are you aware of anything that has been going on for the past few weeks?"
"I am not really sure. I feel as though I have just woken from a bad dream." Harry stated thoughtfully.
"It would seem that my prior assessment of Voldermort's motivation has been confirmed. I believe that he has been influencing your behavior, controlling you." He paused, looking past Harry for a moment before speaking again. "Harry, I am going to have you confined in the hospital for a few days. You will require uninterrupted dreamless sleep. Only then will you be filled in on recent events." Albus then walked to stand next to Harry, placing a gently hand on his shoulder. With a gentle nudge he guided Harry through the office door and toward the hospital.
Dinner that evening was thoroughly unpleasant for Severus. By now the entire school had heard about the incident in Potions class. Albus had explained his belief to Severus and although he understood Harry behavior had been influenced by Voldemort that still did not take the sting off being called "Snivellus" after all these years. Ravenna had just leaned towards him and made to speak when Severus abruptly placed his right hand onto his left forearm. She stopped before any words had escaped her lips and looked at him knowingly. Severus cleared his throat to get Albus's attention. When Albus looked at him he looked at his left arm, Albus nodded. Severus stood quickly and left through the door behind the staff table.
Ravenna watched her husband leave then turned her attention back to the plate in front of her. She had seen Poppy earlier that day for her regular examination and was pleased to learn that she and the baby were both doing well, though Poppy was not entirely satisfied with her weight gain. With this in mind she was trying very hard to increase her food intake, but really had no appetite. After forcing herself to clean her plate she looked at Poppy briefly, then rose and left through the same door her husband had gone through.
She really didn't expect to see him that evening. He had been summoned more and more over the past few weeks. At this point he had been teaching every day and brewing for Voldemort almost every night. She walked steadily to her apartment. Once inside she shed her outer cloak then walked to the bed, sitting on it to remove her shoes. That done she stood and removed the rest of her clothing redressing into her night clothes. She then pulled down the covers, laid down on the bed and pulled the covers over her. She then rolled on her side, wrapping her arm around Severus's pillow and fell into a deep sleep within minutes.
Ravenna was standing at the far end of the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, just inside the door leading to the corridor. Harry was facing her from the other end of the classroom. She had her wand pointed at him; he had his pointed back at her. 'What the hell is this about?' She thought. "AVADA KADAVRA!" she shouted, a jet of green light shot from her wand directly into Harry's chest. Instantly he fell to the floor… dead.
Ravenna sat upright in the bed, gasping. Frantically she looked around the dark room trying to get her bearing. When she realized she was in her own bedroom she relaxed slightly. It took her several moments to compose herself. Once she had, she rose from the bed and went to the bathroom to splash some cold water on her face. She knew this was a vision. 'Why would I kill Harry? Is it possible that ultimately Voldemort will gain control over me? Do I have the strength to stop him?' Her mind was racing. She had to find a way to prevent this vision from happening, but how? Knowing that she would not be able to get back to sleep, she dressed quickly and headed off to the library. Maybe there she would be able to find out more about visions and how to prevent them from happening.
Several frustrating hours later she finally found a book that looked promising. Quickly, she put the rest of the books away and headed back to her apartment to examine the book more thoroughly. When she entered the room she was surprised to find several candles lit. Scanning quickly she spotted a dark area near the bathroom door. Drawing her wand she pointed it toward the dark spot. "Lumos" she whispered and was again surprised to find Severus standing there, arms crossed over his chest and scowling.
"Where have you been?" He asked scolding. "I was afraid something had happened to you."
"You are acting like an overly protective father." She shot back at him then lowered her wand and walked to his waiting embrace.
"Forgive me, but with everything that is going on, I feared you had been summoned." He paused for a moment to draw her lips to his for a kiss. "I am not being told the entire plan by either Albus or the Dark Lord, but I fear you and Harry are very important players in both of their plans. I would much prefer that you not be alone." He whispered. "What was so important that it drew you out of bed at this late hour?"
"Nothing." She said a little too quickly, causing him to pull back from her slightly to look into her eyes. "I couldn't sleep, so I figured I'd do a little research." She gave him a small quirk of her lips.
"Do you think perhaps your research could wait until morning? You look like you could use some sleep." He smiled lovingly at her. With no more words they both prepared for bed. Shortly after laying down, Severus was sound asleep. Ravenna was lying with her head over his heart wide awake. She feared going back to sleep, of having another vision.
Just before dawn Severus began to stir, she wrapped her arms more tightly around him. "Did I wake you?" He asked with a gravelly voice.
"No" she whispered. "I've been awake for a little while now. She is really active this morning." Ravenna then rolled over on her back, pulling Severus to his side by his right wrist. He propped his head up on his left hand and looked at her. She placed his hand on her abdomen just to the left of her bellybutton. He looked at her quizzically for a moment. He could feel his daughter squirming under his hand.
"That is amazing." Severus whispered in awe. "I hope we will be able to keep up with her." He laughed. They laid there for a while longer, quietly enjoying each others company. Then Severus reluctantly rolled off the bed. "I really should be going. This is going to be a long day." She nodded reluctantly and also rose from the bed. Severus pulled her in for a passionate kiss before leaving.
Breakfast was a noisy affair. Rumors were running ramped that Harry had been expelled, that Professor Snape had killed him and other such nonsense. Severus sat in his seat scowling even more than usual. He did not like the whispered accusations of him being a murderer. Having lost his appetite he stood abruptly and left the Great Hall walking threateningly between the Slytherin and Hufflepuff tables. Ravenna had been so lost in her own thought that she didn't realize Severus was leaving until she saw him walk through the doors leading to the entry way of the castle.
The rest of the day hadn't go much better than breakfast had. Ravenna and Severus both decided to skip having dinner in the Great Hall opting to have a quiet dinner in her apartment. Ravenna was still unsettled by her vision; she could not shake the feelings of grief and guilt. It was obvious to Severus that something was bothering her, but he was unable to get her to discuss what was going on. They had barely finished eating when Severus was again summoned. Shaking his head disgustedly he gave Ravenna a quick kiss and left. Ravenna retrieved the book she had gotten from the library the night before and settled in on the bed to read.
Severus apparated to Riddle Manor and was greeted by Lucius. "Severus, the Dark Lord commands you to report to him at once. He is quite furious with your bride's lack of progress with Potter." Severus was just barely able to conceal his fear.
"I shall report at once, thank you Lucius." Severus hissed as he turned and walked briskly to the study at the end of the hall. Just as he made to knock on the door, it flew open.
"Snape, I have been unable to reach Potter for the past day. What is your bride doing?" Voldemort yelled.
"My Lord, Potter and Dumbledore had some sort of falling out and Dumbledore has had him confined to the hospital. Neither Ravenna nor I are presently able to get to him." Severus spoke quietly, bowing his head. "It would seem Dumbledore became suspicious of his recent behavior.
"Damn!" Voldemort hissed. "Just as well, I will just have to follow another avenue of getting rid of him." Severus just bowed his head again in response. "How is the modified Wolfsbane potion coming along? Will I be able to maintain control over a werewolf with it?"
"Sire, I believe so, but I do not have a test subject." Severus stated flatly.
"I anticipated as much, I have just such a person here at this moment. Follow Lucius to the basement."
"As you command, my Lord." Severus bowed again, then turned and left the study.
Severus met Lucius in the entryway and then they both headed to the basement. Once there Lucius led Severus to a room at the back of the basement, pointed to the door and left. Severus approached cautiously, although the full moon was not for another two weeks, he had no idea what to expect. He slowly opened the door and drew his wand. The room was lit only by one torch high up on the far wall. In the corner he spotted a figure apparently on all fours, hunched over. As he got closer, the figure moved. Severus pointed his wand directly at the figure and commanded. "Rise!" He was stunned to find himself looking at Remus. Severus knew he had to be careful here, he could not let on anything other than loathing toward this man. "Lupin…" He snarled. "Fancy meeting you here."
"Lovely to see you too, Severus." Remus said back to him sarcastically.
The two men stood glaring at each other for a moment. Then Severus spoke again. "Have you been of any use to the Dark Lord?" Remus continued to glare.
"I would sooner bite off my own tongue than to help him, or you." Remus snapped. This told Severus what he needed to know. Voldemort had been unable to extract any vital or damaging information from him.
"That is something I would love to see. It seems you are to be my guinea pig Remus. I have been brewing something special, just for you. You will be of some use after all." Severus said darkly. It was beginning to make sense now. Voldemort was planning on using Remus and any other werewolves he could find. But for what purpose? "I shall return shortly." The Severus turned quickly and left the room. He knew his potion would be successful in assisting Remus to maintain knowledge of his true self when he transformed, now he needed to figure out a way to convey to Remus that he must act as if he is under the Dark Lord's control when he takes the potion. Severus quickly returned to the entryway. He again met up with Lucius. "Please inform the Dark Lord I must return to the castle. There are several ingredients there that I will require. I shall return within the hour." Lucius nodded and Severus apparated.
Immediately upon entering the castle, Severus made directly for the headmaster's office. He had to quickly inform Albus of Remus's whereabouts, get his required ingredients and return. After relaying the information to Albus, Severus quickly set off to the dungeons. He met up with Draco outside his office. Severus informed him he would not be in the castle tonight and that he was to keep the house out of trouble. Then he left to return to Riddle Manor.
Over the next few weeks the excitement level in Hogwarts rose. Easter break was about to begin and the students were eager to leave. Harry was still confined in the hospital but would be let out once most of the students had left. Severus had barely spent any time in the castle after classes, spending all his free time at the manor perfecting the potion. He and Ravenna had hardly spoken at all. She had become very withdrawn and quiet. Severus was extremely concerned about her and had finally cornered her after her last class of the day. "We need to talk." He stated quietly as she entered the corridor from her classroom. She looked up at him, expression unreadable.
"Perhaps you're right." She said quietly and walked back into the classroom. Neither spoke until they had climbed the stairs and entered her office. Severus gently closed the office door and charmed it to ensure privacy.
"What is going on? You have barely spoken two words to me for weeks. Are you angry with me?" He said softly. Ravenna had been standing at her desk with her back to Severus. When she turned, Severus walked quickly to her and took her in his arms. The look on her face broke his heart.
Wrapped securely in his embrace, she lost control of her emotions. The guilt she had been carrying around for the past few weeks had become too much for her. As she sobbed in his arms Severus could do nothing but hold her tighter. He waited until she settled down before trying to get her to speak.
"Tell me." He said softly. She took a deep, steadying breath and then told he about the vision she had several weeks before. When she finished she finally looked up at him. He was smiling at her. "Why did you not tell me of this sooner? I could have helped you." She shrugged shamefully. "You must go to see Albus, tell him about the vision. I must return and finish the potion." She nodded. After a kiss they left her office. She went Albus's office, he out of the castle.
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