Awaken before the Emerald Dawn

By: trappedineternity

Disclaimer: I don't own any of it. The characters belong to J.K Rowling. The plot bunny belongs to Black Ice. I am the owner of the fleshy part in the middle. This does contain spoilers. So if you have no read the 5th book, time to turn away. That and I am horrible at accents, so bare with me.

Warning: This story will contain yaoi. If you don't like it, I suggest you leave now. It might contain a few lemons and limes, but there will be warning at the beginning of the chapter and before the lime or lemon begins for those who don't wish to read them, they may skip over it ahead. Furthermore, this fic is dark and thus contains thought and possible acts of suicide and depression. Not your type of thing, I suggest you find something else… I'll accept comments and criticism but nothing about what I've just warned about.

Summary: check first chapter.

Warning: Slight shounen-ai in this chapter. I don't think it's much, but maybe you do. It's right at the start too… I don't think there's anything to it, but you've been warned anwyays.

Chapter 4

Snivellus

The day had started alright. Severus moved through the halls with his book in hand, reading over his notes as he went. Everything seemed to be in order, he couldn't wait till it was evening and he could test out some of the potions he had been creating. The Room of Requirements has become quite useful to him since he's found it.

He was making his way towards the defence against the dark arts classroom until suddenly, he felt an arm snaking around his shoulders. He looked back into a sharp elegant face and cold grey eyes. Severus jumped and shook his head as he saw Lucius. His long silver hair was pushed behind his shoulders as he leaned into Severus' back. "Ah, hello Severus. Beautiful day isn't it?" Severus didn't seemed all the pleased. He looked over his shoulder at his blond friend and sighed. "What was it you wanted, Lucius?" he asked slowly, sounding bored. Lucius smiled. "Oh, I always want something from you, my beautiful one."

Lucius moved closer to him, his hot breath against Severus' ear. "The Dark Lord is recruiting more Death Eaters, my lovely one. I was thinking that perhaps you wanted to join the winning side of the battle?" Severus shook his head. "You ask me at every chance you get Lucius… And my answer never changes. I won't choose a side to this stupid war. Both sides can do what they like, as long as it doesn't involve me…" he replied sternly.

This answer didn't seem to please Lucius all that much. "Fine then, be stubborn, I'll watch as you come around. Secondly, there was something else I was meaning to ask you…" Severus let out a soft sigh of annoyance as he felt Lucius' arms move to his hips. "I won't be sharing your bed either, Lucius…" he replied sternly as he wrenched himself away, only to trip over Lucius' entangled feet.

Severus stumbled back, arms flailing as he tried to regain his balance. Gravity was against him, as were so many and he end up losing his battle, falling into one of the students behind him. They both collapsed into a heap onto the ground. Severus opened his eyes slowly only to see Harry beneath him once more. Harry looked up at him dazed, having hit his head on the stone.

The dark-haired boy blushed in embarrassment. The second time in so many days he had brought Harry to his back… And the thought was enough to spark a few interesting images in his adolescent brain. He blinked as he quickly sat up, straddling Harry as he struggled to get his things back in his bag. Lucius found this scene increasingly amusing. He walked over and handed him his book. "Um… Severus, I think you should get off the poor Gryffindor before you give him the wrong idea."

As if shocked, Severus leaped to his feet and looked down at Harry, who still seemed a little out of it. "I… should bring him to the infirmary…", Severus said softly as he helped Harry up. "Why bother? He'll be alright…" Severus shook his head. "Dumbledore made it quite clear that I would be in trouble should I hurt another Gryffindor and leave them behind…" Lucius sighed and shrugged elegantly. "Go on then, I'll save us a seat in class." Severus nodded as he looped Harry's arm around his shoulder as he let him lean against him on their way towards the Infirmary… which just seemed so far away.

How did he get into these messes really? He looked over at Harry, who was still rather out of it. He hoped he didn't do anything long term to him. Something in his mind told him that should something be wrong with Harry, his living hell would increase with more of the Marauders tormenting…. He couldn't help but sigh again.

Harry laid his head on Severus' shoulder, it becoming much too heavy for him to hold up. He was dazed and confused. What had happened? One moment he was on his way to potions with Professor Ravermore, and now he was being carried away by Severus… It didn't add up. He closed his eyes to the blinding bright lights and spots forming in his vision.

"What happened…?" he managed to mutter. Severus shook his head. "I tripped into you again, I'm sorry. When I'm out the potions lab, I'm a little clumsy… It really is a curse…", he added as an after thought. "Though, in a way, I should be thanking you. You getting hurt really did get me out of a jam with an old boyfriend…", he said softly as he continued to walk. Why was he telling him this….? Why had he said boyfriend…? Now Harry would know…

Harry wondering himself. Snape was actually being civilised? That was strange. Maybe he was nice as a child and something happened to him to make him a grouchy prat, or maybe it was something else? Maybe it was him? Harry shook his head, that couldn't be right at all. Why would he affect Snape? That was a silly notion.

The infirmary was much like it was before, cold and empty. Madame Pomfrey looked at them in surprise. "Mr. Winters? Back so soon. What has happened Mr. Snape?" she asked, concerned. Severus laid Harry down on one of the beds. "I tripped and fell into him. I think he hit his head a little too hard on the floor… I was just bringing him here so you could have a look at him. He's a bit dazed…" The nurse nodded slowly. "I see, I see. Well, I will have him patched up in no time. Probably just a little concussion… "

Madame Pomfrey went about her spells and Severus took this time to slowly slink back out of the infirmary. He went back to his DADA classroom and ran his fingers through his long black hair. Well, it was strange to say the least… That he actually cared to know if the boy would be alright…

With a vicious shake of his head, he dismissed the thoughts. He moved into the classroom and saw Lucius in the corner of the classroom, saving him a seat after all. He sat down beside him, looking out the window that overlooked the grounds. Slowly, their professor walked in.

"Hello everyone.", he said softly as he moved to the front. He had long silver hair, which he braided and mismatched blue eyes, one an ice blue while the other was a deep navy. "Well, I am glad to see that you have all come prepared. I am pleased to announce that today you will be starting your midterm papers. I will give you all a sheet on which there are topics you may choose from."

A collective groan filled the classroom. "Now now, don't give me that. This paper will make good practice for your N.E.W.Ts marks." He wave his wand and the papers flew out and landed on everyone's desk. "Today will be a study period to discuss and choose your topic."

Severus sighed as he looked on curiously. He looked through all the choices and grinned as he saw Dark Creatures. Now, that would be interesting to write a paper about. Werewolves and Vampires and the like. He nodded to himself. He could make something rather good with that.

Meanwhile, Harry was slowly coming back to reality in the infirmary. He looked around curiously, the nurse smiling kindly at him. "There there now, everything will be fine. I was surprised to see Severus bringing you in. He normally leaves his victims to their fates. In any case, you're all well now. Was just a bump on the head, no long term damage… It will be a little sore, but other than that, you should be fine." Harry climbed out of bed and nodded to her slowly. "Thanks you." he said softly, before he walked out.

He made his way to his classroom, which was potions with a note from the nurse explaining with he had missed half of the class. Everything was as it should be really. The new potions' master was a little more tolerant than Snape, but had somewhat of the same attitude. He was biased to the Slytherin, being head of their house and all. And so, Harry took his hand at explaining the Draught of Living Death, seeing as he didn't have sufficient time to make it.

The day wore on as it would, and soon, it was time for dinner. Harry shook his head as he came to the Great Hall for supper. He sat down beside Remus and pilled food into his plate.

Across the hall, Severus was eating his own dinner silently, while Lucius drone on about his life, that he was clearly no interested in. Severus couldn't think of anything he wanted to do less than sit here and listen to him. Finishing his meal quickly, he grabbed his bag and walked out of the hall while Lucius was in mid-sentence. The blond sighed as he ran his fingers through his hair, it was going to be one of those terms.

Severus went outside for a walk. It was much too cold for him to study outside… but a simple walk was fine. His boots crunched into the snow, the only sign he really existed other than the teasing and Lucius' never ending chatter.

Slowly, an owl swooped down from the sky. He held out his arm for the snowy white bird, recognising it as his own Ivory. He gave her a treat from his bag and smiled softly as he lightly stroked her head. "There. What have you for me this evening?"

The owl stuck out her leg, to which was tied a piece of parchment. He opened it and looked to the letter within. Chances are, from his mother. He leaned against a tree, the owl moving up his arm to his shoulder and looked on.

Dear Severus,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am proud of you, you will not be bullied into something you have no desire to do. I respect your decisions, as always, but there is something I would like to draw to your attention. Severus, the Dark Lord has sent Lucius to corrupt you to him. And, it is still your choice what you do with your life, but please don't let yourself be manipulated by him… Decisions made out of haste and pressure are to be regretted in the future.

Also, it would seem that your father will be busy over the Christmas holiday… and he plans to bring me along with him. I know how much you love Hogwarts, and I am sorry that we will not be home for your holiday. None the less, rest assured we will make it up to you.

I have decided that I should give you your Christmas gift a little early this year. It's in your room at the moment you open this letter. I do hope you like it.

Now Severus, this is very important. Stay in the school. Don't draw attention to yourself. Keep your head low and mind sharp. I cannot tell you more, but things are going to happen that you should watch out for… I will write to you soon, promise. Happy Christmas!

-Mother

Severus sighed. So he would to remain in the school for the winter. He would be left alone among the Slytherins.. The only good thing would be that Lucius would be leaving to go to Malfoy Manor, and spend a cold Christmas with his frosty family. Severus suppose that compared to that, he could spend the holidays alone... Slowly, he brought the owl back inside and into his room in the Slytherin dungeons. He wrote a quick letter to his mother and sent the owl on its way.

Sitting on his bed was a box. He picked it up and opened it. Inside was a kitten, a small black kitten. It had a silver and green collar around its neck. Severus picked it up, and the creature purred, rubbing its head against his chest. He looked at the name tag on the kitten and it read Nightshade. He smirked to himself as he lightly stroked the kitten's head, scratching behind her ear.

Within moments, Lucius walked in, being his roommate. He looked over at Severus curiously. "Is that a cat?" Severus nodded. "Yes, my mother sent her to me as an early Christmas gift..." Lucius smiled.. "It is an interesting gift. But why would you want with a kitten?" Severus held the kitten close and shrugged. "I think she thinks I might be lonely... in which she would be right... thought I don't think a kitten will help me in that aspect... it will be nice to have around..."

Severus looked at the time and back to Lucius. "I should get going, I have an appointment with the Headmaster this evening." Lucius quirked a brow. "Been having a lot of appointments with him, haven't you? What does he do to you, Severus?" Severus had to give Lucius some credit. Anyone with less of a mind would have given into that voice and their secret would be flowing like wine. Severus had a little more will power than that. He shrugged. "Nothing important Lucius, extra lessons in the dark arts. You know how much I love the subject. I think Dumbledore might even let me stay back and teach when I graduate." Lucius seemed to buy the answer; with a nod, Severus was dismissed.

Harry sighed as he roamed through the halls, unable to sleep, which was rather frequent. His mind seemed numb, and full, showing him images of Sirius and Cedric… Their faces haunting him in his sleep. He moved through the halls like a ghost, unknowing of where he was going. Harry could only think of one person who would be a comfort to him, and that would be Dumbledore. He would know what to do with Harry and his nightmares…

Slowly, Harry snuck towards the headmaster's office. He came to the gargoyle and started to recite a list is various candies. The gargoyle jumped at his mention of Fizzing Wizbees, to Harry's surprise. He rode the spiral staircase and came to the door. It was open just a crack, enough for him to peer inside.

Sitting at across from Dumbledore was Severus, a muggle chessboard separating them. It was rather expensive looking, made of marble and glass. Dumbledore moved a piece. "Check, Severus. I do hope you're not letting me win…" Severus looked up surprised. "Oh… I am sorry Headmaster… My mind is elsewhere this evening…" Dumbledore nodded slowly. "Tell me what is on your mind, Severus. Perhaps I could help you." Severus shook his head and lightly pet the purring kitten in his lap. "I highly doubt you could do anything, Headmaster… It is nothing."

Dumbledore sighed. "I am not meaning to press, Severus, but I do believe you will have to talk about whatever ails you sooner or later…" Severus nodded slowly. "I know that Headmaster, but it is much too overwhelming. In any case, it would seem I am spending my Christmas holiday at Hogwarts this year…" "Oh, and why's that?" "My mother has decided to go with my father on one of his errands… I cannot join them, nor do I wish to join my father in anything…"

The elderly man looked into Severus' onyx eyes, to find a deep sense of sorrow and betrayal in them. "What has your father done…?" Severus turned away. "Stop digging through my thoughts, Dumbledore. It isn't polite…" Dumbledore shook his head. "Whatever it is, it is eating you up inside… Don't think I don't know what you were doing yesterday…"

Harry was surprised to see Snape jump, as if shocked. "W-what?" Dumbledore sighed as he grabbed Severus' arm, the student wincing in pain. "I do not condone of such behaviours, Severus… I had hoped that you would come to me before things became overwhelming. I like to think we have developed a strong student/mentor bond these past few years…"

And to Harry's greater surprise, Snape started to cry, tears sliding down his pale cheeks. "I am sorry, headmaster… I feel so pathetic to let these things overwhelm me so… I really don't want to think about it at all.. I don't know what to do… He'll come back for me, I know he will… He comes all the time when I'm at home… done… so many things… I know who he is… but I dare not say… You can't help me… I know you can't… so just let it go…"

Dumbledore sighed as he lifts the sleeve of Severus' robes. Long jagged pink scars lined his arm. "But… this isn't the answer, my boy… Please understand, this will solve nothing." Severus growled as he wrenched his arm away. "Don't you think I know that…! I don't know why I…" "Don't lie, Severus. You know very well why you do…" Severus sighed and looked to the ground, tears still streaming down his cheeks. "I am not crossed Severus… just concerned. Please promise me that this will stop and you will come to me when these feelings become too much. No matter what time of the day it is…" He nodded mutely.

Dumbledore rose up and lightly touched his shoulder. "Things will turn out alright, you'll see. We'll make things right… And remember, whenever you wish to speak of the matter, you can find me… And I will help in any way possible." Severus nods. "Yes, headmaster…" He slowly moved a piece and looked at Dumbledore teary-eyed. "Check mate, headmaster." Dumbledore grinned as he looked at the board. "So it is, so it is… You've won again, Severus."

Harry looked through the door dumbfounded. Snape… was just as depressed as he was… and resorting to methods Harry had as well. Harry looked to the pale scars on his arm. He couldn't believe how… emotional he had been. He was completely different from the Snape he knew in the future. This one seemed to actually have a heart. Even as he watched Snape still cry, he felt the urge to enter and wrap his arms around the Slytherin and tell him that everything would be alright, and not let go until he believed it…

Severus slowly got up with his kitten and nodded to Dumbledore. "See you tomorrow evening, Headmaster.", he said as he turned to walk out. "Good night, Severus." Harry's eye widened in panic. Where would he hide? He pressed himself against the wall as the door opened, hiding him. Severus walked down with his kitten, heading back to the dungeons.

"You may come in now, Harry.", Dumbledore said. Harry peered over the door and nods. "Hello, professor…", he said, looking embarrassed. "You shouldn't eavesdrop. Severus would be very angry if he ever knew… You won't use this as a weapon against him in the future, will you?" Harry's eyes widened once more. "What? No! Of course not." Dumbledore smiled softly. "Good good… Now what is it I can do for you, Harry?" Harry shook his head and sighed. "Nothing anymore. I'll be fine.." Dumbledore nodded. "The same goes for you Harry. I do not condone of these kind of self-destructive behaviours… and you may come see me should you need me." Harry nodded slowly. "Thank you sir." "By the way, Harry. You are out after curfew. I would suggest you return to your dormitory before Mr. Filch finds you out of bed." Harry nodded and went on his way.

Note from the author: Thank you to all of you who have reviewed. It really means a lot. I am so glad people are actually reading this story . What will happen within the next chapter? Will what Harry has just seen change his view on Severus? When will this become slash? We'll find out in the next chapter. See ya.

Severus: Crying? Are you serious? I never cried!

Harry: Aww you were just showing emotion… its cute!

Severus: growl I don't do cute…

Sirius: At least you were mentioned in this chapter…

Remus: I feel so left out.

Harry: Sevvy-chan is so cute!

Severus: DON'T SAT THAT, IT MIGHT CATCH ON!

Sirius: Sevvy-chan! laughs, rolling on the ground.

Severus: moans its catching already… why… WHY?