/I don't own anything you recognize in this story. /
Prologue
You probably know who I am, and who doesn't? I'm known as the most hated teacher throughout Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I am respected, yet I am feared. I may be dark, but I am cunning, twisting my knowledge and experience through everything that I have done. They might not have known it, but I was their greatest ally and they'll never find another Potions master greater than I.
Though I have long since left the school from certain complicated events, my story still lives on and I am still remembered, probably long after I am dead and gone. You, my friend, have revolted and recoiled away from the sight of me because of what I am and what I can never change. But why do you act so, when you don't even know the whole story? If you only knew the full extent with what you are dealing with, perhaps you'll show some mercy and pity and maybe a little more understanding added with realization that I am what I am.
But why does a man like myself need pity and mercy? I need no such things. I, Severus Snape, stand alone. No one can help me bear my burdens or ease my pain. I have too much pride for that; it would cut down everything that I believe in and everything that I've built up to this point.
You might laugh; you might scorn, but go ahead and continue your paradigms. I have never cared and certainly not caring now. What I do care about is my respect and honor and all I can ask is that you listen to my tale and perhaps you'll show a little more respect for my person.
But let's not prolong this tale any more than it needs to be. And let me remind you that there will be no foolish wand waving or silly incantations in this telling. With that in mind, I, Severus Snape, Potions master, begin this tale of my journey.