October 27th, 1995
"She's a beauty." Hagrid lifted Saphira into the air, scrunching up his nose at her. "No sign of teeth?"
"Not even on the scans," Rolf said. "And she talks to Mary in Parseltongue."
"Does she now?" Hagrid grinned at Saphira who thought it was great fun to crawl around on his broad shoulders.
"How'd things go with the giants?" Mary asked.
A dark expression washed over Hagrid's face. "Turned us away at the gate, they did. Wouldn't even let us see the Gurg. Said they'd already chosen their alliance."
"That's not good," Mary said, looking down at her hands. "And how's Madame Maxime?"
"Olympe's good." Hagrid smiled brightly, his beard twitching. "She's goin' ter visit over the holidays. How about you, Mary? Enjoying the year?"
"Well, I scare the shit out of the firsties 'cause they think I'm a professor, almost all the other years think I'm an attention seeking freak, and I was kicked out of Gryffindor for putting a target on their backs, so yeah, a normal year."
"It'll all work out," Hagrid said gently. "It always does. You'll show 'em."
"Yeah," Mary said with a sigh, picking Saphira up before she could knock over Hagrids flowerpot. "Well, thanks for the tea. We should probably drop this one off before dinner."
Hagrid reached forward and rubbed Saphira's wing. "You two take care of this one."
"We will, Hagrid," Rolf said, putting his arm around her as they went outside.
"I'll see you in class, Professor!" Mary called back over her shoulder.
"Bring Saphira!" Hagrid yelled back. "I'd like to have the others see her."
"That won't be happening," Mary said once they were out of earshot, letting Rolf's hand envelope hers. "I can think of a few students that wouldn't hesitate to hurt her."
"I agree," Rolf said. "Hagrid will understand."
Two Hufflepuffs rounded the corner and Rolf let go of her, placing a large gap between them. Mary was glad for the space, unable to handle the contact with the phantom irritation scratching away in her mind. The reprieve was short lived. They'd barely made it into the Entrance Hall when she was accosted by both Ron and Hermione.
"There you are," Hermione said, looping her arm through Mary's and sending a dismissive look in Rolf's direction. "Professor Scamander."
Ron simply nodded in greeting and dug his hands in his pockets.
"I'll get Little One settled in for the night," Rolf said, taking Saphira and tucking her under his arm.
"Easy, Saphira," Mary said when she began to struggle.
Saphira looked from her to Ron and Hermione. "Sstay?"
"Not this time, baby," Mary said. "Go with ink and hay. I'll find you when the sky is dark."
Saphira let out a little huff, but cooperated.
"I'm guessing you won't be joining us in Hogsmeade tomorrow?" Ron asked, shooting a dark glare at Rolf's back.
"Something wrong?" Mary asked her friends, wondering what their odd mood was about.
"You haven't seen it?" Hermione asked. "The article in this morning's Prophet?"
"Obviously not," Mary replied. "Was there an attack?"
"No," Ron said, pulling a tattered and worn corner of the newspaper from his pocket. "It's, um, not good."
Mary Potter: Not So Innocent
Mary scanned the article, searching for something that linked her to the deaths of Death Eaters or placed her at the reserve, but the article was focused on her fledgling lovelife and the numerous boys she was rumoured to have dated. Betty had none of Rita's finesse and talent.
"Well none of this is true," Mary said with a laugh. "Which is why it was buried on page 47 along with the lost and found."
"It's all over the school, Mary," Hermione said in a worried tone.
"I'd expect no less," Mary replied, shrugging her shoulders. "But it's not like I haven't faced this before. Do you not remember the Heir of Slytherin nonsense?"
"We remember," Ron said, patting her hard on the back. "Are you sure you're okay?"
Hermione pinned her with a look. "And don't say-"
"I'm fine," Mary said, shrugging her shoulders and dodging Hermione's playful slap.
"You're hopeless," Hermione said, linking their arms together as Mary dramatically read the article, making fun of Betty's complete lack of facts.
Jeers, catcalls, pointed stares, and hushed whispers greeted her when they walked into the Great Hall. Betty's reach went further than Mary expected. It was either that or the students of Hogwarts were so bored with their own lives that they had to buy into any scandalous drivel they could get their grubby hands on.
This wouldn't break her. Betty and Rita wouldn't win. She had far more important things to worry about. There was a war to fight. And she needed to find a cure for Chiara. But there was something else she needed to do. Something just for her.
Dinner ended and Mary turned to her friends. "Have you ever been roller skating?"
"What's that?" Ron asked.
"Oh, it didn't work out so well for me," Hermione grimaced.
"That's what cushioning charms are for," Mary said, waggling her eyebrows. "Meet me in the secret room in half an hour."
"We have homework and study sessions tonight, Mary!" Hermione called after her, her voice dissolving with the distance.
Mary darted around the corners, nearly bowling over a couple of firsties. "Sorry!"
"Was that-"
Breathing hard, she stopped just in front of Rolf's door. He would love the Room of Requirement. If she was very specific with her request, she was sure she could make it look like a proper skating rink. She just needed the skates and her Walkman.
Not thinking, she opened the door and walked in, going straight for the corner where she stashed her skates. Rolf's low voice echoed from his small office and Mary paused, wondering if she should announce her presence. Instead, she peeked around the corner.
Saphira was asleep in her crate, curled around a plush bear and Rolf had his head in the Floo.
"No, I understand," Rolf said. "You're completely right."
Mary tiptoed backwards, not wanting to interrupt, and grabbed her skates. Making sure to close and lock the door behind her, she took off towards the Room of Requirement.
Twenty minutes later, she stepped through the doorway and marvelled at the room that she created. A disco ball hung in the centre of the large rink, the music that was on her Walkman blared from unseen speakers. Benches lined the outer walls and stacks of skates were piled next to them.
The door opened, revealing Ron and Hermione, but what surprised her was the others that joined them. Neville, Luna, and the Gryffindor quidditch team followed. Fred, George, and Lee carried small crates overflowing with Butterbeer and assorted drinks.
They worked together, the Muggleborn and halfblood students helping the wizardingborn students figure out the rules of skating. Before long, they were all laughing and skating in tandem. Even Hermione was having fun, her hands holding Ron's arm in a death grip as they slowly rolled around the rink.
Mary closed her eyes, dancing and skating, letting the rest of the world and the problems that came with it float away.
"It's almost curfew," Hermione said, rolling up to her at a decent pace.
Mary caught her around the middle before she crashed into the wall. "We can stay here."
Hermione bit her lip. "Okay."
"I mean, you don't have to," Mary said. "I don't want any of you to get in trouble."
"No, we'll stay," Hermione replied, sitting on the nearest bench and taking off the skates. "It might be a little uncomfortable."
"Get everyone into the hallway and I'll take care of the rest," Mary said, pushing Hermione toward the door. "And have them take the drinks out too. I don't know what the room will do to them."
With everyone out, Mary closed her eyes and thought of what she wanted. When she opened them again, it was like she'd been transported back to Gryffindor tower. The only thing missing were the portraits.
Mary opened the door for the others and smiled as they walked in. "Welcome to my home away from home."
"Oh," Hermione breathed.
"We miss having you there, mate," Ron said. "It's not the same without you."
"Peaceful, I'm guessing," Mary said with a laugh. "Come on, you lot. We've got to paint the town red tomorrow and we can't be doing that if we're dead tired."
McGonagall looked none too happy with her missing Gryffindors the next morning, but she said nothing as they sat at their respective tables and tucked in for breakfast.
"Toast?" Neville asked, holding up the platter.
Mary grabbed two slices and passed the rest to Ron. "Thanks, Nev."
Neville grinned. "Think Remus would mind if I stopped in tonight?"
Mary frowned, knowing that the days after the full moon were hard on him. "I'm not sure if he'll be there, but I know Sirius will be."
Neville nodded and went back to his toast. She knew he was hoping for an update on Daphne and Sirius would likely send him on to Grimmauld Place to visit her. Before she could think any more about it, the morning owls started to arrive. Ares, Hermes, and Artemis landed on the table in front of them, followed by Errol who knocked over a pitcher of pumpkin juice at Ginny's table.
"We're popular this morning," Ron said, relieving the owls of their deliveries. "You mind sending these off, Mar?"
Mary waved her hand absently and Fred, George, and Ginny's letters all floated toward their owners. What shocked her the most was that she also received two letters, one of which had very familiar handwriting.
Grabbing a piece of buttered toast, Mary stood. "I'll meet you in the Entrance Hall."
"Is everything okay?" Hermione reached for her arm.
Mary grinned. "Everything's great! I need to check on Saphira before we go."
As per her usual, Mary ran through the corridors, ignoring Filch's angry shouts for her to slow down. Her heart was racing, hoping for good news from Romania, as she darted into Remus' rooms and plopped heavily on the couch.
Her fingers shook as she carefully opened the letter. A photograph fell out. It was a big brown dog staring up at the Carpathian Mountain range. On the back in Charlie's messy scrawl was one word; Bear. Without hesitating any longer, Mary unfolded the letter.
MJ,
I'm sorry for the wait between letters. I honestly have no excuse. My hope was that writing wouldn't draw attention to you. Especially after the attack. But if I really think about it, I was scared. I don't know how to thank you for saving me. I can't express how grateful I am that you were here to stop YouKnowWho. Please forgive me?
In other news, I've adopted Well's dog. She's settling in well at the new compound. We've moved everything to the centre of the Reserve where it's more secure and there's easier access to the dragons. It's nicer than the tents, that's for sure. I'd love for you to visit when you have time.
Well, I better get back to the dragons.
-Charlie
Mary carefully closed the letter, placing it in its envelope along with the picture of Bear, before moving on to the next letter.
A frown on her face, Mary opened it to find something that she both expected and dreaded. Percy didn't mince words, he was very blunt and brutal with his criticism of her and her actions, warning Mary to stay away from his family. Mary rolled her eyes, giving the letter little thought as she'd heard it all before in Harry's memories. Percy wouldn't ruin her day.
After showering and changing into her warmest clothes, Mary went across the hall, still elated by finally getting a letter. Before she could reach up to knock, the door opened and a small blonde woman stepped out, lifting a brow at Mary.
"Hello," Mary said in greeting.
Rolf stepped around the woman. "Mary! This is Penny Haywood. Penny, Mary Potter."
Penny held out her hand. "It's a pleasure."
"Likewise," Mary said, trying to smile as she looked at Rolf. "Should I come back later?"
"I'll meet you at the gates." Rolf reached behind him to pick up Saphira who was trying to escape.
Mary grabbed Saphira without invitation, tucking her in her thick cloak. "I'll see you then. Nice meeting you, Haywood."
Without waiting for a response, Mary walked away, wondering what Rolf's ex-girlfriend was doing in the castle. But even her curiosity didn't dampen her good mood. Whatever it was, Rolf would tell her if she needed to know.
Ron and Hermione were waiting next to the heavy oak doors when Mary walked up. Saphira poked her head out of Mary's sleeve and sniffed the air, something akin to a smile on her little blue face.
"Booksss and Grasss!" Saphira excitedly exclaimed, holding her claw out towards Ron.
Ron pulled her out of Mary's sleeve and wrapped his cloak around her, but there was no enthusiasm. "What's she in a fuss about?"
"Just excited to see you and Hermione," Mary said, wondering if they'd be offended by Saphira's names for them. "Something wrong, Ron?"
"Effing Percy!" Ron shouted. "Can you believe that nutter had the gall to-"
"It's not important," Hermione said, putting a hand on his shoulder.
Ron took a breath. "Yeah, sorry mate."
Mary grimaced. "He's your brother, Ron. He's just trying to keep you safe. And he's not exactly wrong, is he? I am dangerous."
Ron's eyes widened and his ears turned a dark red. "He wrote to you too?!"
"A strongly worded letter that I will gladly ignore," Mary said with a laugh. "Come on, we better get going before the weather gets worse."
"I want to read that letter," Ron demanded, letting Hermione weave her arm through his. "How dare that smarmy git-"
Mary couldn't help it, she burst into laughter. "I'm sorry. I know it's nothing to laugh about."
"It doesn't bother you?" Hermione asked.
"On some level, yes," Mary said. "But of all people to judge me, Percy is the least of my worries. He's never liked me anyway."
"You're family, Mary," Ron said vehemently. "There's nothing that gormless git can say to change that either."
"Good," Mary said, hugging them both. "Cause I'm not that easy to get rid of."
Hermione rolled her eyes and leaned her head on Mary's arm as they walked the long stone path to the gates where Filch and McGonagall were checking the students for permission slips.
"Granger, Weasley, go on ahead," McGonagall said. "Potter, the headmaster would like a word with you."
Ron frowned and Hermione looked ready to protest.
"I'll meet you in town," Mary said, smiling at them both. "Will you watch Saphira?"
"She's safe with us," Ron said, shielding Saphira from the blistering wind.
Mary watched them go and turned to McGonagall. "Should I be worried?"
"I honestly have no idea, Potter," she said. "Argus, do be sure that all of the students present their permission slips. I will return shortly."
"You don't have to go with me, Professor," Mary assured her.
"I do and I will," Mcgonagall said, nodding at a group of passing students. "As of late I cannot say in full honesty that I trust the headmaster's intentions."
Instead of taking the long way to Dumbledore's office, McGonagall stepped into a small alcove just inside the Entrance Hall and pointed Mary toward the fireplace.
"I'll go through first, Mary," she said, taking a pinch of powder and calling out for the Headmaster's office.
Mary took a deep breath and followed, stepping out and going to McGonagall's side.
Dumbledore looked up from a stack of paperwork and pointed them toward the two chairs across from his desk. "Tea?"
"No thank you, sir," Mary said, taking her seat.
"Miss Potter's friends are waiting for her, Headmaster," McGonagall said, urging him to get on with it.
"My apologies, Mary," Dumbledore said. "I tried to reach you last night, but you were nowhere to be found."
"She was with her friends," McGonagall answered. "I gave them permission to have a study session in one of the unused classrooms."
"Be that as it may, Minerva," Dumbledore said pointedly. "Had I known that you sanctioned this study session I would have informed you that I have revoked Mary's privileges to join the other students in Hogsmeade."
Mary felt her mouth go dry. "Sir, I-"
"On what grounds, Albus?" Aunt Minnie stood.
"Amelia has received reports of possible attacks planned for the village," Dumbledore said easily. "Mary's presence will only paint a target on the rest of the students."
"I can protect them!" Mary protested. "A sight better than the shopkeepers can, I'll tell you that."
"You are a student in this school," Dumbledore said, holding up a hand. "It is not your duty to protect my students. That responsibility falls on me."
"Then I'd like to have words with you about my first two years at-" Aunt Minnie's hand on her shoulder stopped her from saying more.
"I will take this decision before the board at next week's meeting," Aunt Minnie said. "Stay within the castle grounds, Mary. You're free to go."
Mary nodded, turning a final glare at Dumbledore before walking to the door. Fawkes let out a small trill, diving down and landing on her shoulder. Mary didn't stop. If Fawkes wanted to escape too, who was she to stop him?
When the gryphon statue stopped turning, Mary put on her headphones, letting the music drown everything out. Fawkes pecked at her scarf for a few moments, before taking off through the halls. Mary followed suit, running as fast as she could. At times like these she wished the castle was smaller. Her muscles burned under the assault, her heart raced, but the loud angry music kept her moving.
"Are you okay?" Rolf asked when she stalked into the classroom.
"Irritated, but fine." Mary went straight to the couch and sat down.
"You're shaking," Rolf put a gentle hand on her shoulder. "What happened?"
"An argument with Dumbledore." Mary let out a breath.
"Anything I can do?" Rolf stepped closer, leaning toward her, a smile wrinkling his eyes. "I know a few good hexes."
Mary let out a laugh at the thought. "No, I just need to- I don't know. Blow something up. Fly far away."
He cut her off, pressing his lips to hers. Sweet, gentle, and slow. Mary wasn't having that, she tugged at his hair, deepening the kiss until he pushed her against the wall, pressing against her as his lips trailed down her jaw and to her neck. His hands were under her shirt, running up and down her back, tickling her ribs. A soft sound left her mouth and he captured it by kissing her again. Deeper she fell into the sensations that rushed through her body, giving in to the rebellious freedom of giving in and just being normal.
Time ticked by, too fast and too slow all at once.
Rolf groaned, pulling back. "We should stop."
"Why?" Mary breathed out, tugging at his shirt.
"Penny will be here in a few minutes." Rolf put his forehead against hers. "I need to break things off with her, properly."
Rejection hit her with the force of a wayward lorry.
Mary let her arms fall to her sides, clenching her fists as her feet hit the floor, her back scraping against the stone wall. "I thought you'd already done that."
"She refused to listen," Rolf said, his tone pleading. "After six years, this needs to be done face to face. I owe her that closure."
"I understand," Mary said, pulling her hair into a bun and straightening her skirt. "I'll just get Saphira then."
"I'm sorry, Mary." Rolf stopped her, his hands around her waist as he bent down to press a kiss to her head. "I don't want to rush this. I really like you and I think we should take the time to get to know more about each other. Go on a few more dates."
"It's been five months," Mary said quietly. "If you weren't happy with the pace of things, you should have said something. I'm not a mind reader."
"Don't you understand? I'm only here because of you, Mary," Rolf said, hands on her hips. "I had plans to go back to America and resume my job after the summer was over."
That was the moment she knew she'd monumentally fucked up. I'm only here because of you.
Heart in her throat, she pulled away, a shudder running through her body. "Well, I think you should take that job. Go back with Penny."
Rolf frowned. "What are you saying?"
"Apologise to Penny and go back to America," Mary said coldly. "This was fun, but it's lost its appeal."
"You don't mean that," Rolf breathed, reaching for her.
"Awfully sure of yourself, aren't you?" Mary scoffed. "For fucks sake, I'm trying to give you an out here. Just go. Leave us both with a little dignity."
"That didn't seem to matter a few minutes ago," Rolf took a step toward her and Mary moved toward the door.
"Just stay away from me. Don't look at me. Don't talk to me. Don't even think of me." Mary flung the door open and shut it with a soft click.
Loud whooshes pounded in her ears along with her heartbeat, her breath caught in her throat. The hallway seemed to grow smaller as she heaved in one breath after another.
"That was positively Slytherin, Potter." Snape's acidic voice sounded from the shadows.
Mary heaved in a breath, her heart in her throat. "I-"
"You're late for detention." Snape grabbed her arm. "And since I've been saddled with babysitting your pet, you're both coming with me."
Saphira was unfazed by the man's surly attitude and climbed further onto his shoulder, nibbling at his hair. Mary didn't bother to stop her, Snape wouldn't hurt her. And she needed time to think. Only she didn't want to think, she didn't want anything.
An overwhelming numbness enveloped her as Snape led her to the dungeons, bypassing the classrooms and taking her straight to his quarters. A pang of fear ran through her, but when she looked around, there was no one in sight. The lower levels of the castle appeared deserted.
Snape hauled her into the sitting room and all but tossed her onto the couch, going to his desk and opening it harshly. He returned a moment later with a vial of pale blue liquid.
"Drink it all, Potter."
Mary sniffed it, one of hers, and wrinkled her nose. "I don't need a calming draught, sir."
"You'll drink it if you want me to stay silent on what I witnessed tonight."
Mary grabbed the vial and downed it. "Are you happy now?"
"I'm never happy, Potter." Snape bit out. "Not when I'm surrounded by idiotic children like yourself."
"You sound like my mum." Mary's head spun, a peaceful drunk feeling flooding her. "You know, I never expected her to be so snarky. Is that why you two got on so well? I haven't had the chance to ask her yet."
"What on Earth are you blabbering about?" Snape hissed, taking a step back.
"God, she's probably disappointed in me," Mary whispered, rubbing at her face and pulling the quilt from the back of the couch. "Hell, I'm disappointed in myself. What was I thinking? Of course I'd put him in danger. Stupid, selfish. I'm an effing idiot. You were right, sir. Mum was right too.
Snape pulled the vial from her hand and put a hand to her forehead. "Are you well, Potter?"
"It's been months. I could do it again. It shouldn't hurt too much. Or at least I hope it won't. I just need to talk to them. Dad or Mum? Dad or Mum?"
Snape knelt in front of her, cautiously putting a hand on her arm. "Potter, they're dead."
Mary wrapped the quilt around herself, rocking slightly. "What's that, sir?"
Severus felt fear drown out everything else. From the moment the Snallygaster found him on the grounds until Weasley explained Potter's absence, he hadn't had a moment of rest.
Potter had lost her mind. He ran his wand over her, finding no signs of curses, but it was still a possibility. A simple diagnostic spell showed that she was in moderately good health. Underweight, but that was typical given her random growth spurts over the summer.
The irritating creature made a whining noise and he bent down, letting it settle in her lap as she rocked back and forth, clutching her necklace to her lips.
Was it the Scamander boy? Given Potter's track record, it could be a failed love potion or Imperius Curse making her delusional. That or her overuse of the Time-Turner had addled her mind. Was her ailment a result of something Albus did?
A hiss left the girl's lips and Severus held his wand in his hand, staying as still as possible. It could be the Dark Lord making an attempt to possess her.
"Occlude, Potter." Severus pleaded, grabbing her shoulder. "Ground yourself and Occlude."
Potter fiddled with something and looked up, staring at the blank wall, a grimace on her face. "Yeah, I know it was stupid. Tell dad I'm sorry. No, it's for the best. Well if he's smart he'll leave, won't he? Gods, all I do is fuck it all up. Well you weren't smart at my age either. What? No! What if he doesn't want to talk to you?"
Severus ran a hand over his face. What could he do? Potter had lost her mind completely. Black and Lupin would blame him. Albus would placate him, but blame him all the same, satisfied in her doom.
"Mum wants to talk to you," Potter said, turning to him. "She's in a mood."
"Potter, I-" Severus clenched his fist and knelt in front of her. "Was it a poison or spell? Tell me. We'll find a way to help you. I promise."
Potter's hand shot out like a bolt of lightning, grabbing his arm and placing a familiar small stone in his palm. "Turn it three times and think of her. This isn't one of her smarter ideas, but who am I to refuse?"
Severus stared at the stone, seeing the odd symbol in its depths. "Is this - ?"
"She'll be tetchy if you make her wait. Best to get it over with," Potter said. "Three times, sir."
He turned the cold stone in his hand three times, going against his better judgement. He had no hope of her appearing. Not for him. If nothing else, it would give him a better idea as to what curse or ailment Potter had been afflicted with.
"Took you bloody long enough," her voice said, making him spin around.
Lily Evans, or a shade of her, was standing in his kitchen on her tiptoes, staring at the various jars of ingredients on the shelves.
"Lily," he breathed her name. "How?"
"A simple feat of my daughter once again being a blithering idiot," Lily scoffed. "You're still abysmal at organisation. How do you ever find anything here?"
"It's categorised by potency," he answered dumbly. "Then by use."
Lily reached for an ingredient and her hand went right through it. "Blast it all, I don't like this non-corporeal shite."
"How are you here?" Severus moved closer to her.
"That's not a conversation for now." Lily shook her head, turning to meet his eyes. "I can't stay on this side of the Veil for more than a few minutes without it causing me pain."
"The Veil," Severus whispered. "Is it really you?"
Lily rolled her eyes. "You once helped me turn the Charms classroom into a disco hall. Flitwick couldn't figure out who did it. We went back that night to undo the spell, but we caught him dancing to Saturday Night Fever and decided to leave well enough alone."
"That was all your idea," Severus responded quickly.
Lily leaned her head back and laughed, the sound once again warming his blackened soul. She smiled and stepped closer to him. "I'm so sorry, Sev. I never meant to hurt you."
"It's not you that should apologise." He choked out "I-"
"You did some really stupid shite, I know that," Lily said, her hands twitching. "So did I. Like my dumb-arse daughter, I thought I could protect you. You were bullied by your housemates over our friendship. Short of killing them all, I didn't know how to help. That day in fifth year, you gave me the chance for a clean break and I took it. I- I hoped that they would leave you alone and that when the war was over, we could repair our friendship and things would go back to normal. I was wrong, Sev. So very wrong."
Severus fell to his knees. "You don't know what I've done."
Lily bent down, her hand luminescent as she reached for his cheek. "I do know. It's hard not to when you're dead. Information flows free and fast there. No secrets on that side I'm afraid."
"I've missed you so much," he cried out. "I'm sorry."
"You're my best friend, Sev." Lily knelt in front of him. "I forgive you."
"I don't deserve your forgiveness," Severus wept, not taking his eyes from her. "What I've done. I can't ever atone for it."
"I can't say I'm happy with you, Sev," Lily said. "But you're trying your best to take care of Mary and I appreciate that."
Lily winced and Severus reached for her. "What's happening?"
"I can't stay much longer." Lily clutched at her chest. "Protect her for me, Sev. She's got my pigheadedness. Don't let her repeat my mistakes. I know it's an impossible task. All I ask is that you try."
"I will," he promised. "Will I see you again?"
"Give the Stone back to Mary. It's important that she keeps it. I'm still trying to work out why. Time passes oddly here, but you will be able to call on me again."
"I don't want to let you go," Severus admitted.
"And that's why the Stone isn't safe. For you or for me. I'm sorry, Sev." Lily's image flickered. "The key to help Remus is in the cellar in Godric's Hollow. The password is; aspen. The card. Get the card."
Drawing all of the strength he could, Severus let the stone fall to the floor. An odd sense of grief settled on him, but at the same time, he felt more free than he had in years. Nothing had changed. Not his Vows, not his life, nor the task in front of him. A weight had been lifted from his shoulders. Lily didn't hate him. She forgave him.
A soft whimper broke him from his shock and he stood, knees aching as he looked over the edge of the couch to see Potter shudder in her sleep. Her winged ward nudged at her face pitifully. The Ministry calling card glowed brightly in her pocket and he didn't hesitate to levitate it out and onto the table. Potter was in no state to be running rampant and fighting Death Eaters.
With that in mind, Severus picked up the creature and carried it into his lab where he had a fresh supply of crickets. Saphira ambled around the table when he opened the jar, catching and swallowing them with a joyful look on her face.
The fire flared green and Black walked in, a frantic look in his eyes. "Mary didn't show up for dinner or for curfew."
"She's asleep on the couch," Severus replied quietly. "There was a row between her and the Scamander boy earlier."
"What'd he do?" Black growled.
"From what I witnessed, Potter succeeded in breaking his heart. She's pushing him away so he doesn't become a target in the war to come."
"Rolf's the tough sort," Black said, shaking his head. "He won't fall for that."
"She left him little choice," Severus admitted. "I believe the ultimatum was to either leave with his dignity and reputation intact or she threatened to ruin him."
"By gods, she's an idiot." Black scrubbed his face.
"On that, we all agree." Severus stood and picked up the hybrid creature.
The dark stone shimmered on the floor and he plucked it up quickly, placing it in his pocket. Black followed him, stopping when he saw Mary twitching in her sleep.
"I'll take her up to the guest quarters and come back for Sassy."
"They're fine here for the night," Severus said after a moment's hesitation. "I think you'd have better luck than I with Scamander."
"Hmph," Black scoffed. "I'm a generous person, but I have no desire to keep him around. Not when he's infatuated with my little girl."
"Nor do I, but I fear that it's a relationship Potter will regret ruining."
"It's certainly not a relationship she should pursue either."
"She's plagued with enough guilt as it is. The Dark Lord knows of their friendship. If the boy were to be captured or killed, she would blame herself."
"He'd be in more danger if he knew that they're dating," Black said. "Voldemort killed Marlene and her whole family trying to find me. And I'm nowhere near as important as the kid."
"That was a diversion," Severus said, summoning two glasses and the bottle of Quintin Black. "Yes, it was his plan to kill the McKinnons, but only because of their ties to the Order. She wasn't in the house that night. It made him angry that she escaped, so he replaced her body with that of a Muggle woman."
Black's cold eyes met his. "Are you saying she's alive?"
Severus didn't falter. "Bellatrix caught up with her not long after the attack on the Longbottoms. She killed Marlene swiftly and without question."
The air left Black's lungs in a rush. "Oh."
Severus took a long drink of the dark rum, a smile twitching at his lips as Saphira tried to sneak her nose into Black's glass.
"No, Sassy," Black pushed her back, draining the glass in one gulp. "All gone, you can't have any."
Severus reached forward and grabbed the creature, pouring a shot of liquor into his glass and handing it to her. "Stay still you wretched little bat."
Black raised a brow. "You're spoiling her."
"A shot of whiskey ensures I get a full night's rest if Potter doesn't interrupt me," Severus said.
"What do you suggest I do with Rolf?" Black asked. "Any particular spell or nasty potion you have in mind?"
"The truth will be harsh enough. Tell the boy what Potter faces. Her future and her refusal to pursue anything that would put him in harm's way. If he cares for her, he will leave to spare her the guilt. If he truly loves her, he'll face this at her side."
"Merlin," Black coughed, whiskey spewing from his nose. "Loves her? He's her professor."
"Considering what I witnessed this evening, it may be time to have that talk with her." Severus intoned, knocking back another shot of rum. "Her Ministry card was glowing earlier, but I thought it prudent to let her sleep."
Black let out a sigh. "There was an attack in Little Hangleton. The entire town was destroyed."
"Potter was in no state to help," Severus said. "Were there casualties?"
"A dozen or so Muggles," Black said. "We couldn't get them out in time."
"Potter will blame herself," he said absently.
"There's nothing she could've done," Black replied. "She's just a kid."
Severus knew that Black's statement was false, but didn't have the energy to correct him. "Take her home for a few days. Give her space from Scamander."
"Daphne and the elves would be happy to have her home," Black said, leaning back in the chair. "As would I."
"Though I suggest you keep her away from Macdonald." Severus smirked.
"This is just one big bloody mess," Black said, standing up and holding out his hand.
Surprisingly, Black followed his advice and took Potter home the following morning. The girl complained, but acquiesced in light of their annual visit to Godric's Hollow on Halloween.
Severus too skipped the feast in lieu of travelling to the small village. Hidden under a concealment charm, he watched them in the cemetery, standing by the white headstones.
Potter stood stoically off to the side, waiting for her guardians to pay their respects.
Severus left them to their morbid tradition and moved through the shadows. The broken house stood before him, a symbol of his failure and betrayal. He was at fault for the destruction caused that night. Both to the Potters and the Longbottoms.
But there was no sense in delaying any longer with what couldn't be changed.
Taking a deep breath, he stepped past the broken door and followed the steps down into the cellar. A heavy oak door was at the bottom and he stood there for a moment, knowing that it was Lily who was last there. He put his palm on the centre of the door, feeling the echo of her magic on the wood.
"Aspen."
The door opened and he stepped inside, closing and locking it behind himself.
It was like the years hadn't passed. There wasn't a speck of dust to be found. The tables and shelves held vials of ingredients and potions. The cauldrons were stacked neatly in the corner. And the desk had stacks of books and papers neatly lined up along the edge.
He pulled the charmed crate out of his pocket and set it on the floor. Over the next few hours, he carefully packed up all of Lily's research and belongings, leaving nothing behind.
And as the door closed and locked behind him, he found a sense of peace. "I'll take care of her, Lily."
A sense of melancholy and dread dogged Mary's heels. Okay, it wasn't so bad that she couldn't go to Hogsmeade. Her confrontation with Dumbledore could've gone worse. Far worse. At least she didn't hex him into pieces or blow the castle in half.
And things with Rolf were unfortunate, but her heart was never really in it. That's what Mary felt most guilty about. Not feeling anything. She cared for Rolf, but not in the way he cared for her. Or she thought he did. He'd be happier with Penny. Someone who didn't need to hide their relationship.
A soft knock on her door pulled her from her musings and Mary waved her hand to open it, finding Daphne standing on the other side with a shy smile on her face.
"Come on in," Mary said, moving the books off of her bed.
"Oh," Daphne replied. "I was hoping you'd like to watch a film with me?"
Mary looked at the mountain of homework. "A film sounds great!"
Daphne laughed. "I'll get the popcorn."
Tucking Saphira under her arm and placing Bacon in her pocket, Mary followed Daphne down the stairs and into the theatre room that Arthur and Sirius had painstakingly put together.
"Hello Mistress," Kreacher croaked, sitting down next to her. "Are you well?"
"I'm doing better," Mary said easily. "How are you?"
"Kreacher is bored," the old elf said. "The house misses Mistress too."
Mary patted him lightly on the back. "I miss you as well. Think you can visit me at Hogwarts from time to time?"
"Kreacher will," Kreacher said, holding his long nose up. "Without Dobby."
Dobby popped into the room at the sound of his name and rushed forward to hug Mary. "You will be watching a Muggle film with us, Mary Potter?"
"I will," Mary said, laughing at his enthusiasm. "Do you like films, Dobby?"
"Oh yes, Mary Potter." Dobby nodded wildly. "Very much.
"What are we watching?" Mary asked as soon as Daphne returned from the kitchen.
"Toy Story," Daphne said, holding up the VHS case. "It's animated like wizarding photographs."
"I've never watched it," Mary said, leaning back on the overstuffed couch.
"There you are, Sassy," Sirius said, walking in followed by Remus and Tonks. "You haven't started without us, have you Daph?"
"No," Daphne said, eyes wide. "I wouldn't!"
Everyone took their seats and Sirius bent down to pick up Saphira, putting her in his lap. Daphne did the same with Bacon, petting him softly as the movie started. The film was lighthearted and fun. It was nice to see Sirius and Remus laugh as they watched the toys fight to get out of the evil Sid's house. Daphne would bury her face in Bacon's back and wait for the scary scenes to be over, then she'd look up nervously as though she was going to be picked on for being scared. It made Mary long to find Vinda and hex her into a million pieces for breaking the stoic and confident Slytherin.
The film ended on a good note, with the toys being reunited with Andy, but Mary couldn't help but feel saddened by it. Taking a deep breath, she summoned the dirty dishes and popcorn bowls. There was no use in woolgathering about happy endings.
"I can take those, kid," Sirius said, standing up.
Before she could protest, the dishes and two elves disappeared. A crash was heard from the kitchen and Sirius grimaced.
"They're still fighting over who gets to spoil you." Remus let out a loud laugh.
Mary shook her head and smiled. "Well, I'll just go see if I can help."
"You'll make it worse," Sirius said. "And you have a guest arriving shortly."
"I do?" Mary asked, raising a brow. "If you say it's Dumbledore, I'm going to hex the shit out of you."
Remus let out a sigh. "It's not the Headmaster, Mary Jane. We would like to talk about how you're faring with your magic."
"And I'm supposed to be meeting Dad for dinner," Tonks said, bouncing forward to give her a quick hug.
Mary followed them down the stairs and into the dining room, where Mary quickly realised that 'we' meant Aunt Andy and Snape too. The latter two were sitting at the table talking quietly when Mary walked in and took the seat across from them.
"Evening, Aunt Andy, Professor," Mary said.
Before either could speak, Hedwig flew into the room, landing on her shoulder and holding out her leg. She took the letter while Hedwig nuzzled her beak in her hair. Once more, familiar handwriting stood out, but this time, Mary wasn't excited to read what was written.
"Who sends owls at this time of night, Mary Jane?" Remus asked.
"Rolf," Mary said, opening the letter and wishing she didn't have an audience.
Her eyes scanned the page, going over it once, then twice to make sure she was reading it clearly. Her blood ran cold and her heart sank. It couldn't be true.
"He can't!" She shouted, dropping the letter and standing up. "I-I'm sorry. That was uncalled for."
Aunt Andy watched her with worried eyes. "Sit down, Mary. What happened?"
Mary opened and closed her mouth, trying to find the words, when that failed, she passed the letter to Snape. Had she been thinking clearly, she would have passed it to Remus or Sirius, but Snape would have to do.
"Severus," Remus urged, watching the dour man's face pull into a deeper frown.
Snape finally looked up. "Scamander and a group of Ministry wizards will be retrieving Saphira on Saturday afternoon."
"Why?" Sirius asked.
Mary swallowed hard. "He's taking her to the Snallygaster sanctuary in the States. They've found an opening for her."
"For how long?" Aunt Andy asked.
"The rest of her life," Snape replied. "Scamander claims that Saphira's ability to catch bugs makes her independent enough to survive without outside aid."
"She's not leaving," Sirius said. "Don't worry, Mary. We'll do whatever we have to to make sure she stays with you."
The following days were spent in a numbing haze of activity. Her guardians were constantly in and out of the house, talking to Ministry officials, Dumbledore, anyone who would listen. The verdict was the same. Saphira was a dangerous creature, one that they didn't want getting out of control as she grew larger and more capable of defending herself. Mary's involvement didn't matter. The law was the law.
Mary tried to keep an upbeat attitude that Saturday morning, just for Saphira's sake. Her little one didn't know what was going on, happy to chase Bacon around the house and play with Daphne. Mary watched the little blue creature that'd stolen her heart and didn't know how she'd spend her days without her. Saphira gave her a reason and purpose to keep going. Saphira didn't care if she beat Voldemort or fulfilled the prophecy. She loved her because she was family.
Breakfast that morning was a subdued affair. Taking Sirius' offer of watching Saphira, Mary gathered her belongings and shrunk them before placing them in her pocket.
"It's time, Mary Jane," Remus said, looking worn and tired as he hugged her. "I'm sorry, I-"
"Rest, Remus," Mary let out a breath. "And thank you for trying."
He kept an arm around her as they walked into the back garden where Daphne was saying goodbye.
"And find big pretty moths, sweet girl," Daphne said, kissing the top of Saphira's head. "I'll miss you."
Daphne stood and ran to Mary's arms, bursting into tears.
"Will you do me a favour, Daphne?" Mary asked, blinking to keep her own errant tears at bay.
"Of course." Daphne sniffed, pulling back.
"I'm leaving Bacon here," she said after a moment. "Will you take care of him for me?"
"Yes," Daphne said seriously. "I'll keep him safe."
"Thank you," Mary replied, moving to Sirius' side.
Daphne and Remus gave a wave before Sirius spun and apparated her to the gates of Hogwarts. The shoes on her feet didn't want to cooperate, as though they were laden down with weights that became heavier with each step she took.
"They're ready," Snape said, moving to Mary's right side.
"We're here for you, kiddo," Sirius said from her left.
The Ministry wizards came into view, between them was a large black crate filled with straw.
"It won't be for long, little one." Mary kissed Saphira's head. "I want you to find the best tasting bugs on your trip. You can tell me all about them when you come home, okay?"
Saphira let out a small squeaking noise.
"It's okay, blue eyes. You will be just fine."
Saphira nuzzled at her neck. "Ssstay?"
"You're safe with Ink and Hay, baby." Mary pointed to Rolf. "Find your kin. Let them teach you."
Saphira's big blue eyes met hers. "Kin, mum? Same as you?"
"If they feel like family and they love you as I do, they are family."
"Like Plants, Dog, and Wolf?" Saphira tilted her head to the side.
"Yes, little one. They're our family."
Haywood was a peppy blonde girl that irritated him to no end during her time at the school. One of the most brilliant students Severus ever had the opportunity to teach. Not that he'd admit as much out loud. Not ever considering the damage she was about to unleash. He sneered at the way she gushed over Saphira, loudly clapping her hands when they came into view. Saphira's eyes narrowed and Mary hissed something at her in response.
"Hi, Mary!," Haywood ran up to Potter, extending a hand.
"Haywood," Potter replied evenly. "How much longer until the Portkey leaves?"
Haywood looked at her watch. "Two minutes. We need to get the Snallygaster in the crate."
"Saphira," Potter said with a pointed look at Haywood. "Her name is Saphira."
Haywood frowned. "We don't name the creatures we care for."
Potter's gaze snapped to Scamander who stood back, his eyes on the ground. "She knows her name, Rolf. You know enough parseltongue to know that she thinks of you as family. I'm trusting that you will remind her of that."
Scamander nodded and reached forward, pulling Saphira from Mary's arms. Saphira squawked, extending her wings as they tried to put her in the crate and turning around with a betrayed look in her eyes when they succeeded. Scamander reached in the crate and fumbled with something then moved back, latching it closed.
Potter stiffened at his side when Scamander turned, holding out his hand to her. "Don't do this, Rolf. Please."
"It's for her safety." Scamander said, dropping the silver pendant into her hand. "She's not a pet, Mary."
Potter closed her fingers around the chain, watching as the portkey glowed and whisked them away. She blinked twice, put her head down and turned back to the castle.
"Mary?" Black called after her.
Potter actually stopped, turning to Black, her eyes brimming with tears. "Yeah?"
Black took the three steps to her and pulled her into his arms. "I'm sorry, kid. I know you love her. She knows that too."
Potter's entire body shook and her knees gave way. Black caught her, setting her on the steps as Potter struggled to take in a breath.
"She doesn't understand!" Potter gasped. "She thinks I chose this. What if her own kind reject her? What if they're mean to her? She trusted me to take care of her."
Severus realised then that this wasn't about a young girl losing her familiar or a creature that she cared for. It was her own life playing out. Given up by the person who was meant to care for her. Handed over to people who mistreated her and hated her for being different. Black seemed to come to the same conclusion, pulling Potter to his chest.
"I'm so sorry, Mary," Black whispered into her hair. "I'll find a way to get her back. I promise."
With minimal hesitation, Severus reached out and put a hand on her shoulder. "I'm due for a trip to the States for ingredients that can only be hand picked and shipped. If you'd care to accompany me, I'm sure a detour to the reserve wouldn't be a hardship. Possibly over the winter holidays?"
"Yeah. A visit every now and then to make sure she's safe. That'd be nice." Potter nodded, pulling the silver ring from her finger and putting it in her pocket. "I better get ready for the match."
"I'll talk to Minnie," Black said. "You shouldn't be flying today."
Potter stood, her height now matching his. "I'm fine."
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