Thanks to all of you who took the time to favourite/review my story!
AN:Chapter betaed by Laurkan!
AN-2021/01/26: Thanks to dpstone12 for correcting the mistakes left by Miette and myself :)
"What happened?" asked Severus feverishly, looking at Lucius, willing him to say it was a joke, a play to meet with Severus. Anything but the truth.
"I am not sure."
Lucius' eyes were haggard. Furious. So many feelings Severus felt he was drowning, weighed down by his own pain.
"Father went to help a mentoree but it was a trap. The Muggles were waiting for him. They murdered him."
Severus was Abraxas' only charge in the program. Why would he be called when the mentoree had someone already?
"It is my fault."
Severus looked up surprised. He was stunned by his grandfather's appearance. The man looked old and weary.
"Explain."
Lucius' voice was hard. Severus shivered.
"You both know I originated the enquiry on Dumbledore. His resulting punishment was far too light considering his crimes because most thought that his defence of I did it for the greater good was attenuating circumstances. I realized if he had committed crimes today in the name of the general good, he must have done so before. I decided to dig up everything I could find on the man."
Right. He had been trying to comply with Severus' wishes. Who cared today?
"Some leads were far into Russian wild territories. I knew I would be out of reach if someone needed me while I was away. My mentoree has a difficult family situation, both his younger brother and he are magical."
Great. The return of the famous Mentoree. Who cared about this guy?
His grandfather droned on.
"The Ministry refused to remove them from their abusing family even after I prevented an exorcism on the younger one, no matter what evidences of abuse I brought. They are so set against the sponsorship they stopped caring about the children. We had finally managed to scare and control the Muggles enough they were not hurting the boys any more. It was the last year before the oldest could legally leave his home and take his brother with him... They both had a stone to reach me if needed."
No. He had not dared.
"Abraxas agreed to watch over them while I was away, keeping my linked stone. I did not think he would need to do anything. He was called by the youngest two nights ago. The stone was on emergency call. He went right away. But it was a trap. There were ten Muggles waiting for them. They had realized the boys had a way to call for us. They subdued them and made them call for us. Their accidental magic did not protect them because the Muggles were family and they both believed deep down that they deserved to be mistreated. Their Magic only heals them after a beating, to prevent death is its role. But it won't protect them."
"But Abraxas is strong," argued Severus, unwilling to believe mere Muggles could be the end for his Mentor. "He knows Muggles. He knows..."
"He was. He did," agreed Augustus with a wan smile. "But they were ten, armed with guns from the war. He also had to protect two children. He sent them to safety as soon as he could, but I think it cost him dearly. He tried not to kill at first. Seven Muggles are dead. So is my friend."
Dead. Dead. Dead. Abraxas.
"I had hoped... but it obviously did not work..." Augustus trailed off.
Severus turned sharply at Lucius sudden intake of breath.
"It's my fault. It worked. Your mysterious device to deflect Muggles' weapons. We tested it. He gave it to me. Said he would ask you for another one when you were back. Because I had more chance of encountering hostile Muggle during the raids to protect the youngest kids. I–"
"It was not your fault Lucius," said Augustus firmly, regaining some of his Lord aura. "We protect our children before we protect ourself."
"They will pay. The ones who remain. The others like them."
They would.
"I am breaking my Apprenticeship."
Lucius' look was grateful, sad and conflicted, all covered up with fire.
"Father would not–"
"He is not here anymore," interrupted Severus abruptly, ignoring the bile rising as he said the words. As he accepted that his Mentor was gone.
"Severus–" began his grandfather.
He stopped him with a look.
"I don't care what you want."
The old man sighed.
"I will accompany you as you meet with the Goblins at least."
Severus shrugged. Whatever made him happy as long as he did not try to interfere.
"But you should wait until the end of the Funeral."
Severus frowned. He wanted to get it over with now, his mind was set. But the old man was right. Who knew how long it would take? He could not let Lucius alone today. He also needed to see Abraxas for himself, to know there was no hope of him ever coming back.
"You're right," Severus allowed. "After the funeral."
The next hours were a blur for Severus. Dress. Braid his hair. Don't cry. Walk beside Lucius to sit on the front row with the best view of Abraxas' serene face.
He felt his magic rage inside him, wanting to break free and hunt those Muggles. To throw them into the air, their cries music to his ears, then catch them just before the ground to throw them up again. To crush their legs under stones while watching them beg for the mercy they had not given.
Severus startled when a hand crushed his. Lucius was white as death. The Griever was talking about Abraxas finest qualities, telling anecdotes as if his Mentor could walk right in and laugh with them at any moment. He squeezed back as hard, forcing tears back and pushing his plans of revenge into the darkest corner of his mind for now.
Several friends of Abraxas came to speak about him, praising past actions and character. Severus hated it, only reminded his Mentor would never have the opportunity to share his goodness with others anymore. He should have been proud of his Mentor when representatives of Goblins and Veelas also spoke in honour of Abraxas' spirit. He only hurt.
He thought the worst was over when the mourning ceremony finally ended, but he was wrong. Lucius' hand held him next to him as sure as any iron band, as well wishers came to present their condolences. He did not care about them. About their pathetic words. About their empty reassurances. He barely restrained himself when Dumbledore appeared in front of him to pay his respect. Only Lucius' presence prevented him from shouting at the man that he could have prevented this mess if he had sided with Abraxas' sponsorship proposal. If he had used his influence on the Minister to convince him to give the Sponsorship official grounds and funding. Officials would have taken up the job of protecting the Mentorees. Not Abraxas.
The Potters were present too. The adults looked grave and regal, nothing like their son. Sons. Whatever. He itched for a fight, but neither Potter nor Potter bis gave him an excuse to pull his wand out, both looking at him almost with pity. How dared they? It was their fault. They should have listened to Slytherin instead of stupid rash Gryffindor who believed harm only came from Dark Magic. Idiots all of them. But they would listen now. He would make them understand even if they did not want to.
"I think you need to breathe or something Severus."
He fell out of his brooding, heaving for air. Jonathan and Evan were watching him with worry. Severus closed his eyes, forcing his breath under control and feeding the fires under his mind cauldrons until fumes were crowding the place. Better.
"Thanks guys."
They nodded, faces sombre and eyes dark.
"We will find them," said Jonathan quietly.
"I know."
If the remaining Muggles had seen the smile on his face just now, they would have dropped dead in fear.
"You should not quit your Apprenticeship."
Surprisingly, Evan was the one who talked.
"I can not remain knowing… Lucius needs..." It hurt so much.
"I will take care of my husband."
They startled in surprise. Narcissa had joined them without a sound, dark circles under her eyes. She put a feathery hand on Severus' arms.
"I know Lucius is hurting as you do. Shared pain can lighten the burden." She smiled kindly and looked him square in the eyes. "But I don't think you should give up on your Apprenticeship. You cannot throw away your future because it hurts. Your Master seldom takes on Apprentices. You are blossoming under his tutelage," she pleaded, eyes shining with tears. "Abraxas wanted this opportunity for you. You cannot let pain ruin his plans, his hopes for you."
Severus took a step back, dislodging her hand.
"Lucius needs me. And who are you to talk about Abraxas' plans? Are you sure you're not talking about your own plans?" he sneered viciously.
She recoiled as if slapped then shook her head sadly.
"You will remember our talk in a few years and you will regret not listening to me," she said sadly. "Goodbye Severus."
She walked away.
Severus tried to breathe profoundly to stop from shaking.
Jonathan then Evan patted his shoulder firmly, looking at him sadly before walking away too.
"Severus."
When would this day end? He wanted to be alone with Lucius when he broke.
His grandmother surprised him by hugging him without saying a word. He stiffened before slowly relaxing into the embrace. It felt nice not to feel so taunt. Abraxas' hugs always made him feel safe.
Severus pushed her away abruptly. He did not want her comfort. He wanted his Mentor.
She smiled at him, no trace of hurt on her face.
"Are you here to give advice on my life too?" he asked defensively.
She shook her head.
"Only support."
He was at a loss, unconsciously hugging himself. He felt her hand on his face, brief and warm caress.
"I hurt with you Severus. This pain never disappears. It fades in time… or we learn to live with it," she whispered.
She squeezed his hand then left quietly. Severus was surprised to wish she would have remained a bit longer.
The sea of well-wishers had managed to separate him from Lucius and he took advantage of it to hide in a dark corner where he would not see anyone. Especially not Abraxas' serene face. He felt numb.
Finally, only Lucius and Severus' grandfather remained.
Lucius seemed to deflate, his proper mask fading now that no appearances were needed. He hung his head, as if bearing a weight too heavy for him.
For once, Severus was the one to offer a hug. His brother went in his arms willingly. They clung to each other like drowning men, Lucius crying in silence. Severus' face was dry. Lucius needed him strong. There would be time for tears later. When they had avenged Abraxas.
Severus did not know how long they remained embraced together, taking strength from the contact. Finally, Lucius composed himself. He took a step back and looked at Severus in the eyes.
"Are you sure?"
"There is no other option," answered Severus. Not anymore. There would be other Apprenticeships one day. He had been selfish to sequester himself away from the world. He could have enjoyed days and days with Abraxas and Lucius. With his real family. Now he never would.
"I will wait for you at the Manor."
Severus nodded. He turned to leave without another glance for Abraxas' body. It had no importance without his Mentor's soul.
"I am coming along," reminded his grandfather.
Severus shrugged but allowed the man to fall into step. He looked old. Tired. Guilty.
His grandfather apparated them to a Room of Crossings then gave their destination to a Goblin who showed them which arch to walk through. Wirkrund was waiting for them when they arrived.
"I want to break my Apprenticeship," blurted out Severus, uncaring that it might not be the right place for this kind of talk. He needed to go back to Lucius.
Wirkrund remained unfazed but for a flicker of his ears.
"Daoack, I–"
"Severus. I am Severus," he said loudly.
"Right. Severus. Please come with me, we will discuss this somewhere quieter."
"There is nothing to discuss. I have taken my decision."
"Nonetheless," answered Wirkrund placidly. "There are procedures to follow. Please follow me."
Severus wanted to scream. S...w Goblins and their procedures!
"Come Severus," said his grandfather as he took him by the shoulder. "You know Goblins. He won't budge on this. No need to make it harder."
Severus growled but allowed himself to be led on. They joined Wirkrund in a small room where Hoardrock and Drunek were already seated behind a high desk. That was low. They were trying to make him change his mind.
Lord Prince and Severus sat on the other side of the desk, across the three Goblins. As if he were on trial.
"First, we wish to offer you our condolences Severus. Lord Malfoy was important to you and as such, his passing matters to all of us," said Wirkrund.
Severus nodded stiffly.
"Now, I understand you wish to break your Apprenticeship because of his death," said Hoardrock gravely. "I understand you are grieving, however I must remind you that to break your Apprenticeship has far reaching consequences."
"I have made my decision," interrupted Severus harshly.
Hoardrock stared at him. Severus met his gaze steadily. The Goblin nodded.
"Very well. Here is the Contract. You renounce all claims to the Goblins and will never have the possibility to trade with us. Your Gringotts account will be maintained with very special rates and agreements," he said dispassionately, handing the papers to Severus.
Severus made himself read them carefully. There were no surprises. He signed them quickly then gave them back.
"Now, we need your Guardian's signature for the break to be effective," said Hoardrock, looking at Severus expectantly.
What?
"I don't understand," said Severus. What were they playing at?
"You are a minor. So you need your Guardian to approve any contract you sign."
"I am emancipated," retorted Severus, voice shaking with anger.
"Goblins do not recognise emancipation. In case of improper parenting, another member of the clan will take the child in," said Hoardrock shaking his head slowly.
"I signed my Apprentice contract," said Severus, uncomprehending.
"As did your Guardian, Lord Malfoy," answered Hoardrock evenly.
That… What…
"He's dead," said Severus flatly.
"I am sincerely sorry," said Hoardrock. "But he designated a new Guardian for you."
No. No. No.
Severus turned towards his grandfather who nodded slowly.
"I am Severus' Guardian."
"Do you accept the breaking of the Apprenticeship contract?" asked Hoardrock.
Severus watched with dawning horror as the man shook his head.
"I do not."
"You have no right," said Severus furiously. "You cannot prevent me from leaving!"
"I can and I will," answered Lord Prince definitely.
Severus thought furiously. He had to find a way to leave, to… Of course. He was so stupid.
"You cannot be my Guardian. I am seventeen," Severus said, relieved.
He had almost forgotten, so caught up in the whirlwind of the emancipation and then the Apprenticeship. He had only needed the emancipation for a few months after all. His birthday was in April, he had been eleven when he began his first year, sixteen at the end of his fifth. Without his friends and family to celebrate his official coming of age, his birthday had gone by almost unnoticed. Another missed opportunity.
"Goblin majority is thirty-six," said Hoardrock.
"But I am not a Goblin."
"As you must know," kept on Hoardrock imperturbable, "the wizard equivalent of goblin majority is eighteen."
That was the worst joke ever. Except it was not a joke. He had read it somewhere in the f...g Prince book. Severus felt rage overtook him. His magic began rushing all over him.
"You cannot make me stay. I would only leave in a few months when I am eighteen. You cannot make me," he snarled, getting to his feet.
"I am sorry Severus," said his grandfather who did not look sorry at all. "I cannot let you waste your future. Abraxas would never forgive me."
"Do not say his name. You have no right!" shouted Severus, Magic more and more agitated. He barely noticed the wind which was now howling in the room. He did not care.
"You need to calm down Daoack," said Drunek warningly. "Your–"
"Do not tell me what to do! You are not my father! You are not my Mentor!"
"Daoack–"
"Just let me leave!" growled Severus, interrupting Wirkrund.
The old Goblin shook his head sadly.
"Merlin let me leave!" shouted Severus, desperate to get back to Lucius.
Suddenly, he was leaving the room without having moved up from his chair. Turning on himself, Severus saw he now was ensconced in a magic bubble. Four Goblins were each holding a stone in their hand which delimited the bubble. They were walking, thus taking Severus with them. Where did they come from? When had they appeared?
"What are you doing?" he shouted as he watched his grandfather, Hoardrock, Wirkrund and Drunek get farther away from him. "You cannot make me stay. You have no right. I hate you!" he screamed.
Severus screamed and screamed as the Goblins walked him through long corridors. He tried to burst the bubble by throwing all his power at it but it held. His voice was hoarse by the time they put him in a room devoid of anything but a bed carved in the stone wall and a cover. The bubble disappeared when his guards got out, locking the door behind them. He threw all his Magic at the door, trying to unlock it or destroy it. Anything to get out. He tried casting spells as well as just pushing Magic at the door. It did not matter. He was stuck there. He could not join Lucius who was waiting for him. He hated them.
Falling to his knees, Severus finally cried.