Um Novo Começo

by veritacerum

Depois de quase morrerem na luta com os Ichanis, Akkarin e Sonea tem que lutar para conseguir seus lugares de volta para o Clã e na vida. Além de tudo isso, eles tem de apoiar um ao outro enquanto esperam o nascimento de seu primeiro filho.

8. Chapter 8

The Blessed Boy

by Rakina

Word count: 91141

Chapter 1: Going Back

Dear Severus,

I've just had my final interview with the headmaster, and told him that I will be accepting your offer of an apprenticeship with you at the Community, leading to a Potions Mastery. Professor Dumbledore said he was pleased I had found something I was so enthusiastic about, but he expressed concern that I was 'running away' from the real world.

I have seen the real world – and I prefer yours.

I'll be arriving after school ends on the 30th June. I can't wait to see you again. I know it's only been few months, but it seems like a lifetime when you're waiting for something.

Love,

Harry.

Hedwig returned two days later. It was a fair flight for her as she was getting older. Harry felt guilty about how hard she'd had to work lately, but once he was resettled on Eigg her life should become easier, just like his own.

An impeccably-groomed blond man walked into the kitchen of the Community where the members were gathered for lunch.

"Lucius, I was not expecting you," Severus acknowledged the visitor and waved him to a chair. "Help yourself to sandwiches and tea."

"I thought I would come and see how you were getting along, Severus," Malfoy said coolly, sitting but not taking any of the offered food. "I've heard you'll be taking an apprentice this year. How nice for you."

"Indeed. Young Harry has gained top marks in Potions and Herbology at Hogwarts and I expect him to get good NEWTs. It is always a pleasure to pass on one's knowledge."

"Yes, well... this whole place seems to exist to pass on your knowledge, does it not? I am interested in discovering just who your apprentice is, and perhaps something about his family ties. As you know, we have been pleased to support your endeavour financially so long as –"

Severus interrupted the monologue before Lucius could get started on just what his group's 'sponsorship' was for. "I am pleased to say that our financial situation is far more stable now we have been running for several years and have managed to establish a regular market for our products. I do believe we will not need to call upon your very generous donation this year."

Lucius Malfoy looked closely at Severus Snape. His expression was less gratified than might be expected for a man who had just been told he would not need to put his hand in his pocket. "Are you telling me you wish to finish our partnership?"

"Lucius, our… association was never a formal partnership. The community has grown, and become known as a distinct part of the wizarding world. I prefer to think that I am freeing your organisation so that it can support other, equally worthy endeavours that may be more in need of financial help."

"I see. Well, I had also come here today to check the state of the community and to see if you had started the redecoration of the cells…"

"You will be pleased to know that it is not necessary, Lucius. The cells have everything that I, as Head of the Community, deem necessary and their décor is decided upon by me."

Lucius was definitely looking less than happy now. He scowled at the framed texts on the walls, the Community's mottos and legends. "Really, Severus; this Blessèd Boy nonsense. I would have thought it beneath you. You have always appeared to be an opponent of such superstition. I am surprised you keep framed copies of that rubbish in all your rooms."

"And I am equally surprised to hear a traditionalist such as yourself say that, Lucius. The prophecy, as you know, is attributed to Merlin and applies to Eigg. How could I ignore such a thing?"

"Easily, Severus. You already ignore much that you disapprove of. I would have expected you to do the same with this. Still, if I can be of no further help to you today, I shall take my leave. I have other people to visit – many important meetings to attend."

Severus and the other community members, all of whom had been silent during Malfoy's visit, watched the blond aristocrat rise and leave without another word.

"I don't think he likes you much," Danyel said in his direct way as the man walked out through the door.

"Hush, boy," his father, Jolyon Tadcaster said. "Master Snape's not bothered by the likes of him. And it's none of your business anyway."

"Nevertheless," old George the calligrapher added, "it's interesting that he's worried about the prophecy."

Everyone glanced at the framed text, wondering why Lucius Malfoy would find it uncomfortable:

A virgin with eyes as green as the grass

With hair as dark as the peat in the earth

Is blessed with the strength of the Old Ones who passed,

And the power to bring children to birth.

Blessèd is he who can win such a prize

Whose bed can be filled with such joy!

Warmed by the glance of the greenest of eyes

The sweet innocence of this blessèd boy.

The young man will come o'er the sea 'til he meet

His Destined One, with fragmented heart.

The strength of their bond will keep evil away

And the bound ones no more be apart.

On the Island of Eigg when the blessèd boy stays

All Britain once more will be whole

Then there'll be no power in cruel Dark ways

And evil will lose its last soul.

A bloodline of power, of Light and of joy

Will proceed from the pairing here sealed

For never was seen such a wondrous young boy

And his Destined One, whose heart he has healed.

"That's why he wanted the cells redecorated, isn't it?" Richeldis asked. "I reckon he's not bothered about the colour of the walls; it's that text that worries him. He asked me about it last time he visited. I couldn't tell him anything; it's just an unfulfilled prophecy that's been around for more than a thousand years, so how could I? I wonder why he's worried; do you think he imagines it will affect him or his group?"

Severus frowned. There were signs, but he didn't want his community members realising it. The meaning looked obvious to him, but so far no one else seemed to have put two and two together. Severus hoped it would stay that way.

Harry's Apparition was almost silent. He appeared behind one of the buildings at the Arisaig ferry port early on the morning of the thirtieth of June with his luggage shrunken and stowed in his robe pockets. His robe was transfigured into a Muggle overcoat which was definitely too warm for the season. Even though Harry was standing by the seashore on the north-west coast of Scotland, he could feel a prickle of sweat forming under the hair at the back of his neck. Never mind, it would only be an hour's crossing and the sea looked as calm as he could wish for. Harry stepped towards the ferryboat which was waiting by the dock.

The crossing was indeed calm and Harry didn't feel ill at all. The breeze on the sea, the lack of any sneering, jibing companions and the prospect of travelling towards a future he had chosen for himself banished any fear of seasickness. Harry was fascinated when the boat took a detour to show the travellers – most of which looked like Muggle tourists – some dolphins playing in the waves; he'd never seen the sea mammals before and he felt that their interest in people was just as strong as the passengers' interest in them. Harry smiled nearly the whole time on the crossing.

As he stepped ashore on the island of Eigg, Harry felt a surge of warmth and excitement. He followed the road up to the little village, remembering the day last year when he'd arrived with Professor Sprout and the Herbology class to find Abigail Jordan waiting for them with the pony cart. Today, Harry knew which path to take and the three mile walk didn't bother him, though he fully intended to transfigure the Muggle overcoat back to its proper form once he was far enough away from the village. His shrunken belongings were stowed in his coat pockets and he didn't need a cart to transport them now he was an adult wizard able to do magic whenever and wherever he wanted.

As Harry headed for the path that led up and over the fields away from Galmisdale he noticed the glances of some of the locals following him. A stranger, walking away from civilisation into the countryside, along the path that led upwards to the peak known as An Sgurr – inhospitable, but scenic enough. He'd be back soon, unless he was staying in that guest house along there.

It was obvious to Harry that the locals loved their island and they were as much a part of it as the rocks and grass. No doubt they watched and took note of all the comings and goings at the little port. Harry now fully realised what a good idea the guest house on the edge of the Community was as a cover for visitors. The site of the Community itself, nestled in the shadow of the peak, in an unplottable area that could be cultivated – though the Muggles would never know that – was unknown to them. With the help of Earth and Fertility magic, Master Snape had made the land fertile.

As the houses of Galmisdale shrank into the distance to the size of matchboxes, Harry shrugged off the heavy Muggle coat and with a flick of his wand was holding his familiar dark robes. He put them back on without fastening them and they swirled around him as he walked, more comfortable than the Muggle-style coat had been. The landscape was iron-hard with rock close to the surface of the earth all around him and wide swathes of rough grassland in all directions. Harry felt every inch a full wizard now he'd passed his final exams and left school, and the land here felt as if it was welcoming his presence.

Cresting a rise, Harry saw the guest house along the lane ahead. The low, white-painted building with its dark, slate roof looked warm and inviting – it looked as if it had grown out of the landscape, rather than having been built by man. Harry hadn't been inside the building, which was owned by the Community, but he decided he'd like to have a look around it one day.

The large house had a stone wall enclosing a garden. As Harry approached he could see there were shrubs growing in there and a small tree nestled around the back of the house. The plants looked exotic.

Harry smiled as he got near enough to discover that they were all plants that were useful in potions and the tree was a rowan, every part of which – leaves, wood, berries and flowers – was used for magic. He could feel Severus' hand everywhere the Community's influence extended.

As Harry paused looking over the low, stone wall, the door of the house opened. Severus himself was standing there, dressed, as usual, in black, and smiling at him. "Come in, Harry."

Harry opened the small gate and ran up the path. Severus opened his arms and Harry almost bowled him over as he flew into the embrace. "Severus!"

"You're pleased to see me, then?"

Harry squeezed tightly, not wanting to let go, not wanting to leave the man's embrace ever again. It was real, it was true: Harry had come home – to Eigg.

Severus gently loosened Harry's grip. "You'll need to let me breathe, Harry, if you want our association to last."

Harry reluctantly eased away from Severus' chest, where he'd buried his face in the lightweight, black wool of the man's summer robes. He looked up into the narrow face and smiled. "I'm so glad to be here, Severus. You've no idea!"

"Has life been so hard for you since your visit?"

"I don't know… I suppose it was no worse than it was before. But knowing I had somewhere to come and a future waiting here for me just made it all so difficult to bear. The delay seemed never-ending."

Severus brushed a kiss over Harry's forehead. "I have been lonely without you, but I confess I have almost been too busy to think about it at times. I'm sorry you couldn't have visited again, but you're here now, and for as long as you wish to stay."

Harry looked a bit disappointed that Severus hadn't seemed to miss him as much as he'd missed Severus.

"I have been very busy getting my work settled," Severus continued. "Getting the staple potion production sorted out before your arrival. Because you, Harry, will be my special project for at least the next three years if you are to gain your Mastery. Do you remember Staywell Juice?"

Harry nodded, he recalled the wonderful, fruity taste of the potion that required little brewing and kept everyone at the Community well.

"I have started selling it to the public. It was very favourably reviewed in the Potions journals and is selling well. It is easy to produce and so our income is growing. We still have to work hard, but we're fairly sure we know where our next meal's coming from these days."

Harry laughed. "I know too... it comes from your vegetable garden!"

Severus swatted Harry on the backside, then soothed the gesture with a gentle hand. Harry shivered as the older man's hand rubbed his buttock. Severus always gave the impression of being very much the master, very much in charge. Harry knew that, as his apprentice he would need to be deferential, especially in the presence of others. But while they were alone, he felt an impish desire to tease and realised he'd liked the feel of the swat on his bottom rather a lot.

"We had been dependent on financial contributions from some… traditionalist groups," Severus was continuing, and Harry forced his mind back to the subject at hand. "Now we can stand on our own feet. The direction the Community takes will be answerable to none but our members, and ultimately to me. I can now practice modern monasticism as I believe it should be, rather than keeping to the Purist agenda of my sponsors. I am trying to revive wizarding traditions genuinely worth awakening, not to encourage senseless bias. While we are a traditional community living without Muggles or their artefacts, we welcome anybody who wishes to live with us in such a way. Naturally, it is magical folk who are comfortable with this, but we do not exclude squibs or people whose blood is considered less than… acceptable… to some."

As Severus spoke thoughtfully, his hand had continued stroking Harry's arse. Harry hadn't moved a muscle, relishing his master's touch and not wanting to disturb him. Severus sounded happy enough, but also introspective. Harry turned his head to lay his face against Severus' chest, listening to the beat of the man's heart.

"Would you like to look around the guest house? We will have visitors staying here next week, so while we're here…"

"Yes, I'd intended to come and look at it soon. It's pretty."

"I don't know that 'pretty' is the word I would have used – it is built in the style of the traditional island houses. It was built by Muggles; we paid them to do it and so we were accepted as folk who would contribute to the island economy. I have found they are remarkably easy folk to live alongside, for Muggles. They are self-sufficient and respect other folk's privacy. The islanders only know a few of us and they think we live here in the guest house and just have the odd visitor. We buy things from the village shop at Galmisdale and if we have excess production of fruit or vegetables which we tell them we've grown in the garden here, we take them to the village to be sold. It is a good relationship."

Harry nodded. Severus had led him into the sitting room which was south-facing and bright. It was comfortable rather than stylish, with large armchairs and a sofa surrounding a fireplace which would look cosy with a fire burning in the hearth. From there Severus led Harry to the kitchen. It was a good size with a table and chairs for dining and the usual Muggle appliances. "Do these run by electricity?"

"No. There is no electricity available on the island; the Muggles all make their own somehow, but of course that does not concern us. As only magical folk stay here these appliances are powered by magic."

Severus led him round the rest of the guest house and Harry thought he'd be quite happy living in a place like this. It was peaceful, comfortable, and best of all it was on Eigg. When they reached the bedroom Severus turned and pulled Harry into his arms.

"Let me show you how much I've missed you," his deep voice rumbled into Harry's ear.

Harry shivered in delight as Severus drew him over to the bed and sat next to him.

"Harry, are you sure this life is what you want?" Severus asked as he kissed around Harry's face, holding the young man's head still in his hands.

"I haven't been able to wait, Severus. I had to struggle to keep concentrating on my NEWTs. All I could think about was getting good enough grades to return here, for you to accept me."

"I can only accept you as an apprentice if you get excellent grades," Severus continued, dropping his hands to Harry's shoulders and looking seriously into the young man's green eyes. "But you could have come here even if you had failed everything, you know that."

"I do," Harry agreed, feeling warm inside that Severus wanted him anyway. "But I want to do well so I'll be able to help you. You must be very busy now the potions are getting popular."

"An extra brewer is just what we need. Although Scylla and I have managed perfectly well, I know she gets frustrated by the long hours involved sometimes – certainly her temper is as short as mine."

Harry laughed. "Aren't all Potions Masters short-tempered? I've heard it said they are. I will have to practice scowling."

This earned him another attempted swat towards his backside, but as Harry was sitting, the rebuke failed. Severus kissed him into submission instead, before resuming. "Scylla may be bad-tempered at times, and increasingly so lately, but she is not a Potions Master. She is a good brewer but has never studied to the higher level."

"Oh, I just thought you'd have a Master as your assistant."

"It's not really necessary. Though she is getting a little frustrated at doing the more routine work all the time, rather than creating new formulas. The creation of potions is a completely different skill to brewing, as you will find as we progress in our studies."

"Didn't Scylla want to study with you?"

"I never offered it, and she never asked. And now you are my apprentice and will take up a lot of my time," Severus said, kissing Harry again. "And we had better get you up to the community now, everyone is excited to be getting a new member; it's a real event."

Harry followed Severus out of the guest house. He couldn't help feeling a little disappointed that Severus hadn't spent more time in the bedroom with him, but then chided himself for being too forward. They had years ahead of them.

"Once inside the wards we can Apparate to the house," Severus told him.

They turned along a track to the right of the guest house and Harry felt the shiver of the wards letting them through. "Muggles can't see this track, can they?"

"No. The only way a Muggle could enter the community's lands would be if one of us brought them in. Squibs can see the track, but it takes a lot of concentration for Argus just to walk through the wards. Normally, he stays on the community's lands."

"What about the ponies? They didn't have any problem when we came in on the cart."

"Surely you learned in Hogwarts that animals are naturally magical? That is why Muggles cannot understand what animals are looking at sometimes; they think their pets are seeing ghosts. Well, sometimes they are, of course."

Harry felt a bit of a fool, but he didn't think they'd been told that at Hogwarts. "I think I'll learn an awful lot more with you than I did there," he told Severus.

"I will teach you all I can, Harry," Severus promised, a glint in his eye that made Harry shiver in excitement.

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Chapter 2: At The Community by Rakina

Chapter 2: At the Community

With a crack they appeared in the Community's kitchen and dining hall. Miranda Beckett, the cook, looked around. "Master Snape, you found him!" she exclaimed happily.

"Obviously," Severus replied dryly as Miranda wiped her floury hands on a tea towel.

The cook bustled over and hugged Harry. "I'm so glad you've come to live with us," she said.

Harry was a little taken aback; he'd had relatively little experience of being hugged, but it was impossible to object to Miranda. The woman was short, with brown hair and rather plump – no doubt a bodily shape cooks were prone to. Harry had found her rather short-tempered when he'd come with the school party, but perhaps that was a natural reaction to Draco Malfoy's fussiness over her cooking.

"I've made you a cake for teatime, Harry, in honour of our new member. It's not every day the Community gets bigger."

"Thank you," Harry said sincerely. He hadn't had a cake made for him on any occasion before and he wondered what it would be like.

"I must get back to work; I'm making a lamb cobbler for tonight. But I'm so glad you're here." Miranda turned back to her basin and immediately plunged her hands in again.

"Let me show you to your room, before everyone comes in for tea," Severus said, and Harry followed him out and along the corridor to the cells. "You're in number eleven, being our twelfth member."

Harry smiled at Severus. "Why not number twelve, if I'm the twelfth member?"

"Josiah and Lydia have a double-sized cell together as they are married," Severus explained.

Harry nodded. "And are you number one, by any chance?"

Severus smirked back at him. "Of course; number one in everything. Now, you go and settle in and I'll check on the brewing room before meeting you back in the kitchen for tea."

Harry opened the door to cell eleven. It was similar to the one he'd stayed in before, with the addition of a colourful rag rug beside the bed. On the pillow lay a flower. Harry picked it up – a white rose; he inhaled its scent and smiled. There was a small, glass vase on the shelf above the washbasin, Harry put some water in it and stood the rose on his desk.

Unshrinking his bags, Harry started putting his clothes away into the wardrobe and drawers. He hadn't bothered on his previous visit – they'd only stayed one night. Now Harry was going to be staying for years. He made sure everything was carefully placed, wanting this, his first room all to himself, to be perfect. Then he sat in his armchair to try it out, bouncing up and down a bit to check it was comfortable. There was a cushion with a crocheted woollen cover which seemed to nestle into his back just right; he wondered who the textile maker in the Community was. Next, he took his writing kit and placed it on the little desk provided for personal study. It was short of paper now as he'd used most of it corresponding with Severus after their parting last year. He reminded himself to get some more; perhaps George could give him some from the scriptorium, or should he ask Lydia if he could have some from the shop?

There was a small bookshelf next to his desk and Harry had put his few books on it. These were Hogwarts textbooks and a Wizard's Almanack he'd bought last Christmas. It gave odd tables, like the phases of the moon (with werewolf warnings), the movement of the tides and the dates of 'movable feasts'. There was an awful lot of mumbo-jumbo that seemed even dafter than the two years of Divination lessons he'd studied at school, but there were also puzzles and little stories and legends which were interesting. The adverts at the back were for weird and wonderful things and Harry had smiled when he'd seen an advertisement for 'Master Snape's Potions, available at Slug & Jiggers and all good apothecaries'. He often flicked through a book at night time; it helped him get to sleep. There were lots of books here at the Community. There was a small room lined with bookshelves, books stacked floor to ceiling on three of the walls, next to George's calligraphy rooms. George was the librarian and Harry would ask him if he could borrow some of the books for his room.

Harry stood up and went over to his washbasin. He peered at himself in the mirror. He thought he looked okay – his hair was a bit messy, but it was always that way, it just didn't grow flat. Still, he passed the comb through it several times, trying to look as good as he could for meeting the others at tea. He washed his hands with some of the honey soap he was sure Richeldis had made, suddenly remembering Susan's comment that the Community probably bought things and only pretended they'd made them. Some people had to spoil everything.

The texts on the walls were the same as in the cell he'd slept in before: reminders of the Community's rules and the very special prophecy that Merlin had left on Eigg.

"Well, this is home," he said. The little room was cosy and Harry smiled. For the first time in his life if he needed his own space he had somewhere to come, somewhere just for him. Eigg was brilliant.

When Harry walked into the cosy kitchen with the big refectory table where members and visitors ate, everyone stood up and clapped.

"Welcome, welcome!" boomed Josiah Jordan, his face still as red as Harry remembered. His exuberance made Harry wonder if he'd been sampling his own wines again.

Danyel ran over to Harry and hugged him. Harry stood still and let the youth do it, he knew how harmless Danyel was – the young man was just very open with his emotions – and how close he'd got to Harry on his visit last year. But Harry didn't respond too much because he didn't want Danyel to do it all the time; Harry doubted Master Snape would approve of that for his apprentice.

Danyel let Harry go and smiled. "I'm glad you've come to live with us, Harry."

"I'm so glad to be here," Harry said loudly enough for everyone to hear.

Severus stood up from his chair at the head of the table. "As my apprentice, you will sit here, at my left hand," he instructed, pointing to an empty chair next to him. "And most of your working time will be spent with me in the Potions rooms. But I also want you to learn about the other things we do here at the Community, so from time to time I will send you to work with my colleagues. Each speciality has its busy period and we often pitch in to help each other."

Harry sat down and Miranda, the cook, passed him a cup of tea. "I'm so glad we've attracted a young wizard to our Community," she said, smiling. "Here's my own special welcome to you, Harry." She waved her wand and a large cake appeared in the centre of the table. It was iced all over and had green lettering reading Welcome, Harry. The icing flowers – roses, violets, lupins and buttercups – almost looked as if they were alive. They were giving off a lovely sweet scent so the cake smelled a bit like a big piece of Turkish delight.

"Thank you," Harry said, delighted. "Shall we all have a slice?"

Danyel clapped his hands and Jolyon shushed him. "It's Harry's cake, boy. Wait yer turn."

Harry stood up and started slicing the cake into twelve equal pieces. He placed the first slice on one of a pile of plates that Miranda had summoned, along with a fork, and passed it to Severus. "For you, Master."

Severus inclined his head and Harry could see the approval in the others' eyes. Severus was their Master and should always be served first. Eigg had a hierarchy.

When Harry offered some cake to Scylla Darke, who was sitting on Severus' other side, she refused. "I do not eat cake. It is not good for me."

Miranda got on her high horse about it. "Are you saying my cake is unwholesome, Scylla? I thought you had a higher opinion of my cooking skills than that."

"Of course I have, Miranda. It is just that iced cake is not… a healthy option."

Harry looked at her incredulously. For a witch, she sounded awfully like Aunt Petunia, his closest Muggle relative, who'd become obsessed with 'healthy options' since her son had been diagnosed as dangerously obese. Harry didn't imagine the Community ate fancy cakes like this very often, although there were now twelve members, so that averaged a birthday a month. Perhaps that's why Scylla was reluctant to take it. She was very slender and maybe she watched her weight. Somehow, Harry doubted she got on very well with the plump cook.

"Oh, very well," Scylla said, and took the offered plate a little brusquely. Everyone else started eating with every sign of pleasure, so Harry sat down and took a forkful.

The cake was as delicious as he'd thought it would be. It did have a vaguely rose-like flavour, like Turkish delight, which then reminded him of Christmas, when Turkish delight had been served as a sweetmeat at the Hogwarts Christmas feast. But this made him feel a bit strange, because it was only the end of June. The whole summer stretched ahead of them and Harry was looking forward to his best summer ever now he was in his new home.

Harry sank into his bed, tired but happy. Severus had told him to reacquaint himself with the Community for the rest of the day, and Harry had happily wandered around watching the others work and chatting to them.

In summer the garden and farm areas were busy. The sheep were out on their summer pasture on the foothills of An Sgurr, the highest peak on the island, and needed relatively little care. Argus Filch or Jolyon Tadcaster would go and check on them from time to time, calling them with treats of flapjack, which they loved. The oldest ewes would come to their call and the younger ones followed. But it was an easy time of year with the sheep – the lambing was over and it was a time of plenty.

Harry had spent some time helping Argus and Abigail Jordan in the garden area. The runner beans were cropping heavily and they took a while picking them.

"I'll take some down to the shop in Galmisdale tomorrow," Abigail told Harry. "Want to come?"

"Um… I don't know. Master Snape may have something planned for me."

Abigail smiled. "You've got the hang of this very easily, Harry. Of course you must ask him first. But tell him I offered."

Harry was used to doing as he was told both at home and at school, so he didn't think it would take much getting used to now he was here at the Community. "I will. He may let me come, but I think he'll want to get cracking on my Potions work soon."

"Isn't it the holidays? Even for apprentices?"

"I suppose so. I don't know if I'll get holidays. I'll have to ask." Harry realised he knew very little of Severus' plans for his education and felt rather foolish.

Later, after dinner, he'd asked Master Snape if he could have a word with him. Severus had nodded and led Harry into a private sitting room off the main area.

"Master Snape, Abigail has asked me to go into the village with her tomorrow to take some beans to the shop."

"Do you want to go?"

"I – yes, I would like to go. It's only in the summer we have produce to sell to them, I suppose."

"Mostly it is. And we do not send too much or they will start to wonder how the Guest House garden can produce so much. You may go. We will not start our Potions work until next week."

Harry nodded. "Abigail said it was holiday time – even for apprentices."

Severus chuckled. "She likes to tease me, I think. If this were a university or a school, that would be the case. But we have no long holidays here on Eigg. We celebrate the solstices, the equinoxes, the major magical feast days and some Muggle holidays, but we do not have weeks and weeks of lazing around like Muggles and some wizards do. Our model, which is traditional monasticism, is to live a life of service and usefulness, not indolence."

"What if somebody is ill, Master, and can't work?"

"Oh, then we beat them," Severus said seriously.

Harry looked into his dark eyes, startled and wary. Severus looked back, stony-faced. And then Harry saw the glint the older man couldn't keep out of his eye. "You're joking!"

Severus laughed. "Of course I am. What kind of monster do you take me for, Harry? You know me better than that, don't you?"

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry… I didn't mean –"

But Harry's apology was cut off when Severus put his arms around him and kissed him. "Foolish boy. Each member of the Community is precious. We are a rare few who wish to retain Wizarding traditions, not just in a dogmatic way, but by intending to give our best to our way of life here. All members of the Community work hard and are cherished. Now, stop worrying. If you wish, I'll give you an overview of what we'll be covering in the next year. I had to write one out for the Ministry Board of Education so they could approve your Mastery when you achieve it."

Harry settled down, snuggling his pillow. It was going to be hard work – nothing worth doing was easy – but it was going to be okay. Harry was going to be a part of something for once, not an oddity left out of every group like he'd been at Hogwarts. There was so much to look forward to – his Potions work next week, but first his trip into the village tomorrow. Harry fell asleep with a smile on his face.

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Chapter 3: Selling Beans by Rakina

Author's Notes:

There is a map of the Community here: rakina/pic/000070z2

Chapter 3: Selling Beans

Harry was so excited he was up early for breakfast and arrived in the kitchen before anyone except Miranda. He immediately helped to set the table while she got the big pots of tea and coffee underway.

"What are you up to today?" she asked.

"I'm going to the village with Abigail to take some beans to the shop."

"Ah. Abigail has taken on the village runs as her job, I reckon."

"I thought she'd always done them. She came and collected us from the ferry when we visited."

"Oh, she's always done some of them. But lately, if you ask me, she's been mighty keen to go down there," Miranda said as she sliced the bread she'd made yesterday. "Put the honey pots on the table, Harry. They're behind you, on that shelf."

Harry helped as much as he could, glad to feel useful. He realised that community living depended on everyone pitching in and doing what they could. He would mostly be working in the Potions rooms but he liked the idea of helping out with different tasks. He hummed to himself as he worked.

"Well, well. You're an early bird, and keen with it," Josiah commented as he took his place next to his wife, Lydia. "Abigail tells me you're going to the village with her today."

"If Master Snape approves it," Lydia reminded him.

Josiah cocked his eyebrow at her, as if to say 'why wouldn't he?'

"Yes, Master Snape said I could go," Harry confirmed, just as Severus and Scylla came in together.

"You're not starting him in the Potions workroom yet then?" Scylla asked Severus.

"Next week will be soon enough. I'll let him settle in first," Severus confirmed.

"Just as well, we've a tricky batch of Worry-wart Bane to get done. He'd probably mess it up."

Harry didn't have time to look angry at this, because Master Snape reacted quickly. "You will respect my apprentice, Scylla. If I hear any more disparaging comments about his abilities I will be forced to assign punishment."

Severus' voice held a very real edge of anger, and Scylla did not speak again. But she kept looking sideways at Harry.

Harry had wanted to point out that he'd regularly got an O on his Potions work at school and certainly wouldn't mess any potions up. If he wasn't sure how to proceed, he'd ask Master Snape. He wasn't stupid.

Abigail came in and sat between Harry and Josiah. She chatted to Harry about their trip and Harry happily ignored the dark figure of Scylla sitting on the other side of his master. He was sure he could feel her glaring at him from time to time. Master Snape ate quietly; treating Miranda's cooking with appreciation. He complimented her once and the cook positively glowed. Harry had noticed that there was a whip on the wall in the cooking area, though. If Miranda wasted the community's precious produce she would no doubt have to punish herself, just as Josiah had during Harry's visit to the winery last year. Harry wondered if she'd strip to the waist like the man had… Harry blushed at the thought.

"Shall we go and get the cart ready, Harry?" Abigail asked when they'd finished eating.

"Oh, yeah, I'd like to help." Harry loved the little horses that lived here at the community. "I hadn't realised we'd take the cart."

"Well, there are quite a lot of beans, and we can't very well levitate them into the village – the locals are very observant. See you all at lunchtime," she said as she stood up. She gave a nod of her head towards Severus as she left.

Harry got up to follow. "See you," he said to the others. He had noticed Abigail's acknowledgement of Master Snape and, because Severus was his apprentice master as well as being community head, he gave a little bow. He knew he'd done well when he saw Severus' acknowledging smile.

As they entered the farmyard they saw Jolyon and Danyel just starting work. Danyel was off to collect eggs with a basket over his arm.

"Don't be long, boy," Jolyon called to him. "Take the eggs to Miranda as quickly as you can. We need to set off for the pasture soon if we're going to get back before lunch. Now, where did I put my sheep kit?"

Harry couldn't help it, he had to ask: "Sheep kit?"

"Aye, lad. It's a satchel with things I might need when I get up to the pasture. Potions, salves, scissors, bits and bobs to get the sheep out of any trouble they might have got themselves into. They're daft buggers, sheep are," he added. "If they can find a way to fall over and die, they will."

"This way, Harry," Abigail called, heading into one of the barns.

Inside stood the pony cart and Harry helped drag it into the farmyard. The harness was ready and Abigail said she'd show Harry how to fit it on the ponies. "We'll take Hamish and Jock; they're the regular ones for cart duty. Hamish first –" and she called to the pony across Lightning's paddock. There was no sign of the stallion and Harry asked where he was.

"He's still running with the mares, Harry. He'll come back down once they're all in foal. I think he's due back next week – he's had chance to get them all pregnant now."

"Oh." Harry remembered Lightning's antics in the paddock with the geldings. It made him feel a bit hot and bothered, but he was soon distracted when Hamish and Jock came ambling across to them.

"You watch me put Hamish's harness on, then you can do Jock," Abigail said.

Harry watched carefully as she got the black pony ready for the cart, then backed him in between the shafts.

"Your turn."

Harry took the leather harness and began to put it onto Jock, the chestnut. Jock stood still patiently as Harry fiddled a bit, all fingers and thumbs.

"You'll get used to it; it's a bit tricky at first. But these boys are good and won't give you any trouble. Lightning would be a different proposition, though. And the mares can be a bit flighty as well. Hormones, my dad says," she laughed.

Eventually the cart was ready and Abigail got into the driver's seat. "Come on," she called and Harry scrambled up onto the board seat beside her and they were off.

It was a bright, beautiful day. A gentle breeze stopped it being too hot. The ponies went at a steady pace and Harry couldn't remember when he'd enjoyed himself more. As they reached the guest house Harry noticed a rugged stone enclosed in a fence on the other side of the trackway. "What's that, Abigail?"

"Oh, that's the South Stone. Master Snape will tell you all about the Boundary Rites, I expect. You've just missed the Summer Solstice rites."

"You mean there's magical rites that take place at the stone?"

"Yes. Four times a year. At the four cardinal points of the year the rites take place at the four boundary stones around the community. But I don't know what goes on at them – the Boundary Rites are about male protective magic. The growing areas are where the general fertility magic takes place, usually in the vineyard, and the women join in with that."

Harry had no idea about these particular ancient forms of magic. He'd taken his History of Magic NEWT but they'd not covered sex magic in detail. He wanted to learn, but he also felt a bit nervous. Fertility… that must mean sex magic. Harry still knew very little about sex. Severus hadn't come to his room last night and so far his only sexual experience was his memory of last year's encounter.

As the cart rumbled into the village of Galmisdale which clustered around the pier where the ferry docked, Harry looked at the Muggle buildings there for the first time. There was a café and some other buildings that looked like they might be shops, and a sign on one declared it to be the Shop & Post Office: 'Post Office open 2 hours a day on Monday, Thursday and Saturday'. Harry was glad he had Hedwig with him – she'd arrived yesterday evening and immediately taken up residence in the Owl Barn in the farmyard with the community's other owls. It was an idyllic place for them – plenty of mice to catch and a traditional roost site; Hedwig had hooted happily at him when he'd gone to see how she'd settled in. Compared to owl post, the Muggle postal service seemed very inconvenient.

"The shop where we take the beans is along here by the fishermen's jetty," Abigail explained, turning the cart along a road by some houses and heading toward a smaller jetty. "The Muggles who live there are called Andy and Sarah. They're usually glad to have fresh produce to sell, and runner beans are a favourite."

Abigail drew the cart to a halt, looping the reins over a post. "Come on then, Harry. Let's get them in."

They gathered up the beans which were packed in flat baskets, carrying a basket apiece, and Abigail led the way. The doorway of the building was open. As they walked inside it seemed dark compared to the bright daylight outside.

"Hello again, Abigail," a woman's voice with a soft Hebridean accent greeted them. Harry could just make her out in the corner of her shop, which was a very casual setup looking more like someone's parlour than a real shop. There were tables covered with baskets of different produce for sale. Harry noticed there weren't any runner beans.

"This is Harry; he's come to stay with us."

"Hello, young man," the woman said, stepping forward and extending her hand. She was a short, grey-haired Muggle, slender and neat-looking.

"Hello," he replied, managing to stick out his hand without dropping his basket of beans.

"What's that you've got? Runner beans! Oh, they're always popular; I hope you've brought enough. Last time I sold them all in an afternoon once word got out we'd got some."

"We have these and another couple of baskets in the cart," Abigail said. "It's been a good year." She helped Sarah arrange the beans on a table. "Do you have our baskets from last time?"

"Yes, they're here at the back, hold on." Sarah bustled to the back of the room and rummaged around, returning with two of the flat baskets.

"Shall I take these to the cart and go and get the rest of the beans?" Harry asked.

"Yes please, Harry."

Harry returned with the rest of the crop they were selling. Abigail was accepting money from Sarah for the beans and chatting with the woman.

"Are you expecting guests soon?"

"Yes, there will be groups all over the summer, most weeks," Abigail told her.

"Aye, it's our busy time starting now. I'm always glad of fresh produce to sell the tourists. Have you anything else ready soon?"

"We're growing strawberries, but I doubt there'll be many spare. Everyone loves them so much."

"Aye, I'm mighty fond of them myself. Well, if you've too many coming ripe at one time, you know where to bring them."

Abigail chatted a little more while Harry looked around the shop, but soon they were on their way again.

"Not on the cart, Harry," Abigail said as he headed over to it. "We'll take a walk to the jetty and leave the ponies here for a short while. Miranda asked me to look out for some shellfish, and we've the money Sarah gave us."

"Doesn't that have to go back to the Community?"

"Muggle money is no use back there, so we spend it in the village or on the odd trip to the mainland. Miranda has control of the food budget. Master Snape regards it as good community relations to trade with the Muggles."

Abigail stopped talking and started to wave at someone. Down on the jetty a man was sitting on a wooden chair alongside a fishing boat. There were some buckets lined up, next to a blackboard which read: 'fresh fish for sale – crabs & shrimps'. The man stood up and walked toward them.

"Abigail, it's good to see you again," he greeted. He had a warm, deep voice, brown hair and sea-blue eyes. He was young, but his face was already looking a bit weather-beaten, with crinkly lines around his eyes. Harry thought it made him look friendly, as if he smiled a lot, but perhaps it was just because he had to keep squinting into the sea spray from his boat. He glanced at Harry and smiled before returning all his attention to the young witch.

"We've just brought some beans up to the shop."

"Runner beans? I had some of yours last year… they were very toothsome – tender and sweet." The young man winked at her.

Harry watched as Abigail blushed and he smiled to himself. So that was why the young woman came to the village so often! He decided to wander over and have a look at the man's fishing boat.

Abigail saw Harry begin to walk away and called out: "Oh, I'm being so rude. James, this is Harry. He's staying with us, helping out…"

"Hello, Harry," James said, smiling and extending a large, suntanned hand.

Harry took it and shook hands. The man bore Harry's father's name and that made Harry feel even warmer toward him. "I was just going to look at your boat, if you don't mind."

"Aye, have a look. Go aboard if you've a mind to."

"Thanks. Do you mind, Abigail, if I take a while?"

"Of course not, I'll look at the fish, buy something and talk to James," she twittered.

Harry grinned and left them to it. He decided against going onto the fishing boat – he really wasn't destined to be a sailor – and sat down instead at the end of the jetty on a thick post. He thought it was called a 'capstan', but whatever it was it made an excellent stool. The sea breeze, the sounds of the seabirds, the view across the blue sea to the mainland… it was all beautiful. Just as he'd known it would be, Eigg was perfect and it felt like home.

As Harry got ready for bed that night he sighed contentedly. Shrimp cocktail for tea with fresh bread and salad from their garden. Wonderful. And they'd had rhubarb crumble for pudding. Harry doubted Miranda had to punish herself very often.

"Come into the workrooms with us this morning, Harry," Master Snape told him at breakfast, after he had been at the Community for a week.

June had given way to July. The days were often hot and Harry didn't mind that he would be spending time in the dark, stone-walled Potions workroom – the coolness would be welcome. He smiled happily. "I've been looking forward to it, Master."

"Good. You've had time to get to know the layout of the community better by now."

Severus and Scylla rose and Harry quickly followed them. He'd been looking forward to the start of his Potions work. He still hadn't had a night time visit from Master Snape, which worried him a little, but he was determined to show his Master just how good he'd become at Potions.

Once he was standing in the main workroom with its rows and rows of fully-stocked shelves, Harry wondered where he'd have room to work. The central bench was already set up for a potion and Scylla went straight over to it and started mixing some powdered ingredients at her workstation.

"Scylla is starting another batch of the Worry-wart Bane potion; we've received a large order from Slug & Jiggers apothecary chain. You will follow me."

Master Snape turned toward some shelves behind the workbench; Harry followed, ignoring Scylla's somewhat smug look as she tipped the powder into the cauldron she was working at. Wondering what he and Severus could do in that poky corner where there wasn't room to swing a cat, he was surprised when the shelves swung outward and another room was revealed. Harry followed through into an area with more tables.

"This is the experimental area. I spend many hours in here. That will be your bench," Severus said, pointing to one of the bare tables. "Gather standard equipment and I'll set you to make a batch of Staywell Juice. The ingredients are here." Severus waved his wand and a written list of ingredients and brief instructions appeared on a patch of white-painted wall.

Harry nodded. "Yes, sir."

"I'll be in and out of here today. I have to oversee Scylla, and I have a few administrative tasks to finish, but once I've seen how you manage this, I'll come and talk to you about the course I wish you to pursue."

Harry nodded again and Severus left him to it.

It didn't take long to complete the Staywell Juice – Harry brewed a medium-sized batch in the standard-sized iron cauldron. He was clearing away after bottling the potion into pint vials when Severus returned.

"You should have waited for me to approve the batch before bottling," he chided.

Harry blushed. How could he have made such a stupid error? "I'm sorry, Master, I never thought." He dropped his eyes to the floor, awaiting a telling-off, at least.

Severus gentled his expression. He understood how keen the boy was, almost desperate to please him. "You do not need to work so hard to impress me, Harry," he said. I do not expect you to know everything at first. Wait for my instructions before proceeding. You will be here for a long while – there is no hurry."

Harry raised his eyes and looked at his master. The man was looking very seriously at him, and Harry thought he probably meant more than the mere words conveyed. Was Severus talking about sex? Did he still want to teach Harry all about that? He hadn't done more than kiss him since he returned to Eigg. Maybe Harry was just indulging in wishful thinking.

The afternoon was spent going over the principles he'd be required to learn. The way Severus was going to be teaching him was designed to make Harry a competent Potions brewer and researcher. The emphasis was on exploring new combinations and taking time to test everything. Also, Severus was going to look back to the traditional remedies and the history of Potions brewing. He was linking the magic they did in these brewing rooms with the magic in the landscape all around them.

"There is power in this place which we can tap into if we know how. Merlin himself lived on Eigg for some years, with his love, the witch Brigid. She came from a long line of witches from the Islands and was powerful in the magic of the place. Together, they worked wonders. It is said the island bloomed with plants that normally only grow far to the south, and with fruits and vines, and that the animals were fertile beyond anything seen before. They had lambs to spare, chickens, ducks, even peacocks. Meat was served every day in their home, which was open to travellers who came to learn at the great wizard's feet. And it was all possible because they were so closely in tune with the very soil they stood on. We are trying to do that here."

"Master, you are already doing it," Harry said. "You have made vines grow here, and Josiah makes wonderful wine."

Severus gave a small smile. "Indeed. And we will make it better yet, with your help."

"So the native magic of the island is to be part of my course."

"Yes, in a way. Once you are settled into the environment here, you will notice how much better you're able to brew and how much stronger your magic will become once the earth accepts you. I will come to you tonight, and we will start that part of your education then."

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Chapter 4: The Wizard Bottle by Rakina

Chapter 4: The Wizard Bottle

Harry scampered off to bed that evening as early as it was reasonable without looking too obvious. Severus had said he was going to come to his room!

Every member of the Community could spend time in their rooms if they desired privacy, but so far Harry had chosen to spend every evening with the others: chatting, playing cards, learning new skills – Argus was teaching him how to make a basket out of willow – and enjoying feeling genuinely part of a group for the first time in his life. If it weren't for Scylla Darke's continuing coldness towards him he'd have thought he was in heaven. As it was, he suspected the witch was jealous because Master Snape's time was now spent with Harry more than with her. She couldn't say anything too bad while Severus was around, but she made up for it with snide comments and unfriendly looks at other times.

Harry sat in bed reading, reminding himself to ask George tomorrow if he could have some books from the Community's library. Time passed, he'd been in his cell an hour and there was still another hour to lights out. Perhaps Severus wouldn't come until then? Harry sighed, but then he heard a quiet knock on his door and putting his book aside without bothering to mark his place he rushed over and opened it. Severus was standing there, still wearing the plain, dark robe he used during the day.

"May I come in?"

"Of course, Master," Harry said, smiling from ear to ear.

Severus stepped in and Harry locked the door behind him. Harry knew nobody would enter his room without permission – only Master Snape had that right, although he'd been polite enough to ask this evening – but Harry still wanted the extra security of locking the door. He saw Severus watching him and blushed.

"A wise precaution," Severus said. "Our lesson should not be interrupted."

"So you're going to teach me." Harry sounded breathless with excitement. He loved the lessons on sex when he had last visited and he wanted only Severus to teach him more.

Severus inclined his head and took a medium-sized bottle out of his robes, handing it to Harry. Harry took it and examined it. It weighed next to nothing and seemed empty. It resembled a miniature Arabian coffee pot, with a stopper attached to the handle by a brass chain. It was made of opaque green glass and when Harry took the stopper out and looked inside he found it was indeed quite empty. "What is this for, Master?"

"First remember, Harry, that while we are in your room I want you to call me Severus," his master said. "And that is a wizard bottle."

Harry still looked blank, so Severus explained: "A wizard bottle is used for storing your essence. Remember how I told you that every time you have an orgasm, you strengthen your aura? And how important your ejaculate is? This bottle serves as a storage vessel which will contain the power that is often wasted by careless wizards. Each time you ejaculate you use a spell to transfer the seed into this bottle. Then, at the fertility rites which take place four times a year, that magical essence – all that power – is used to strengthen the magic we work then. The bottle is unbreakable and is charmed to keep the seed fresh. It is a reservoir of power which a wizard can use, and an enemy can misuse, so wizards keep their bottles with them at all times. Protection and ownership spells are cast on them, of course, but that does not mean you should leave the bottle lying around at any time."

Harry was turning the bottle in his fingers, admiring the work. The glass was beautifully turned, the fittings perfect. "This is mine forever, then?"

"Yes. Once your first ejaculation is sent to the bottle it will be keyed only to your essence." Severus put his hand in another pocket and drew out a black glass bottle. "And this one is mine. It is nearly empty as we only just had the summer solstice rite on the 21st of June. The next is the equinox on the 21st of September. Even if your orgasm occurs unintentionally as the result of a dream, make sure you use the spell to transfer the semen into the bottle. But the most powerful emissions are those that are brought about by intent. The spell is called Transfero and the wand movement is this…"

Severus showed Harry the wand movement, correcting his attempt by holding his hand and showing him the right way to describe the arc. Harry tried again and did it perfectly, although nothing happened as there was nothing to transfer.

"I think we should try with some ejaculate, don't you?" Severus said, his voice deepening as Harry had noticed it did when he became aroused.

"Oh, yes. Definitely," Harry said, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.

Severus stood up and stripped his summer-weight robe over his head in one movement. Underneath he was wearing a pair of plain cotton boxers which showed that he was already half-hard. He looked expectantly at Harry to do the same.

Harry stood and took his pyjamas off as quickly as he could until he was facing Severus equally as naked as his mentor. Severus stepped closer and pulled Harry into a kiss. Harry melted with happiness… he'd been waiting for this.

Harry thought Severus could probably feel his erection pressing between his master's thighs – Harry was hot and eager. And when Severus spoke again, Harry knew he'd noticed.

"If we do this together, Harry, it will increase the power released at orgasm. If you take Enrichment potion, you will find it increases the amount of ejaculate. But for tonight, as the use of the bottle is new, I will just take you through the transference procedure. Next time, if you wish, you can take the potion. Now you can understand why I take it regularly."

Harry nodded, at the moment he didn't care why they were doing this; he just wanted to kiss Severus, to touch him, to feel his arms around him. Severus smelt wonderful – spicy, fruity (he smelt of whatever he'd been using in brewing that day, Harry supposed) with an underlying smell of hot flesh which was almost musky. He buried his head in Severus' neck and inhaled like someone who'd been holding their breath underwater for too long and was desperate to get some air.

His breath played across the sensitive skin of Severus' neck; he could tell it was getting to his master because he felt him hardening nicely. Severus slipped his hands down Harry's sides and around the back, cupping his buttocks in his palms, weighing them, kneading them, hinting at pleasures yet to come… Harry groaned at the delightful feelings. Severus made him feel so wanted, so possessed…

Severus ran his forefinger down the cleft of Harry's arse as he moved his hands down, then brought his hands to the front and clasped Harry's cock, and Harry gasped in delight when his master's hands encircled him. "Oh, please…"

Severus kissed his young lover and told him: "I'm going to bring you off, Harry. Let's sit down so we can save all that wonderful come…" He pushed Harry onto his bed. Severus sat beside him, his own erection sticking up urgently.

"Can I touch you?" Harry asked, his voice excited but nervous too.

"I demand that you do," Severus growled, thrusting his hips to emphasise his need. "Whichever of us comes first – and I can guarantee it will be you – must use the Transfero spell. Place your bottle on the table there, unstoppered, next to mine."

Harry fumbled with his bottle and put it next to Severus' own, which stood ready. He soon sat back next to Severus. "You might come first, you never know," he said teasingly and grasped his master's erection with new determination.

Severus looked as if he thought that was unlikely, but he said nothing. He Accioed a tube of 5* Lube which flew from one of his robe pockets. "This makes it much nicer," he explained, pouring some into his palm before touching Harry again.

Harry had to agree. Severus' hand slid up and down his erection easily, but he still got all the friction he needed from the pressure of the hand and the delightful squeezing Severus did which was making him gasp and squirm. "Oh, yes!"

Severus smiled to himself. Harry was being so enthusiastic; it was obvious he loved having his cock pulled so much that Severus was confident that Harry would come first, and very soon.

"Let me have some." Harry gestured rather raggedly towards the lube and Severus calmly squeezed some into Harry's hand, which immediately returned to his master's penis.

Severus' reactions were much stronger than usual, and the fact that it was Harry holding him, wanting to bring him to completion with his unskilled but enthusiastic movements, was making this encounter anything but routine. Severus bit his lower lip between his teeth trying to ground himself, surprised by the urgency he was feeling.

Harry's room was filled with the sounds of ragged breathing, of grunts and moans; there was the smell of aroused flesh and the awareness of the almost palpable need to come. Harry could hardly stay upright, he just wanted to collapse onto his bed and have his master bring him off. But he forced himself to stay sitting, to concentrate on doing it right for Severus, on making his beloved master feel as good as he did.

Severus was loving it. His boy… his Harry… his own apprentice to teach. He'd dreamed of just this for years. Yes, he'd led the fertility rites; yes, he'd seen and participated in many things that were part of sex magic, but it had never been what he personally wanted, what he needed… his own young man. And he was going to come… "Harry!" he gasped, and to his amazement he spurted hard and fast over Harry's grasping hand, struggling for breath at the sudden intensity of the moment.

Harry heard Severus call his name and opened his eyes which had been squeezed tight shut. Severus had come first! He felt a surge of pride that he'd done it right, done it so well that Severus couldn't hold back… The sight of Severus' ejaculation – pulses of copious pearly fluid shooting from the man's flushed cock – caused a huge jolt of excitement and he came. Gasping, sighing, and loving this even more than the wonderful memory of what had happened last year could have prepared him for.

Once they'd returned to breathing normally again and opened their eyes they looked at each other. Severus took his wand and said the spell and Harry watched as the spilled seed flew into Severus' open bottle.

"Now you."

Harry picked up his wand. "Transfero," he said, concentrating on the wand movement. It worked, the residue of his pleasure flew into his green bottle and he felt oddly clean where it had been spilled. It felt like his skin had been diligently scraped – not sore, but very, very clean.

"Severus, what happens if we… er… well, if the seed gets mixed together?"

Severus answered matter-of-factly, just as he would if it had been a Potions question. "The Transfero spell only sends the correct essence to your bottle – your own seed. So any ejaculate or other substances will be separated by the spell. Your bottle is now keyed only to your essence; it will accept nothing else."

Severus stood and stoppered his bottle, placing it back into his robe pocket. He quickly slipped the robes back over his head.

Harry, following his mentor's lead, stoppered his own bottle and started pulling his pyjamas on.

Severus took a step toward the door.

"Oh, are you going?" Harry knew he sounded plaintive.

"If I do not go now, I will be here all night. It is best if I go. I will return tomorrow; I promised to teach you to see auras and you will need that skill for the rites. Remember to keep your bottle with you at all times, and always use it. The more power we store, the stronger the rites will be."

Harry nodded but he couldn't school his features to hide his disappointment. Severus saw the young man's expression and groaned to himself. He couldn't stand to see Harry looking like this… he paced back to where Harry stood and pulled him into an embrace. "You unman me, boy," he whispered hoarsely into Harry's ear.

So Severus stayed. He spent the next hour wrapped in the young man's arms, and he really didn't want to move then, except he still had to get ready for bed and reluctantly headed for the shower. Harry had already been dozing in his arms. "Tomorrow, Harry," he promised as he left.

Harry settled down, smiling. Although the bed felt oddly empty now, he was so satisfied, and felt so wanted, that he thought he'd still sleep well.

And he did.

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Chapter 5: Harry's Worries by Rakina

Chapter 5: Harry's Worries

Harry woke up and his eyes were immediately drawn to his wizard bottle standing on his bedside table. He smiled at the memory of what he'd done with his master. He knew there was a lot more to learn from Severus, and not only in Potions.

On his way out to the day's work he tucked his bottle inside his robes.

The talk at breakfast had been about a party of two witches and two wizards who were arriving that day to stay in the guest house. They were regulars on Eigg who returned every summer and spent some of their time helping in the farmyard. Jolyon and Danyel were in high spirits looking forward to their helpers' arrival.

Scylla, by contrast, was uncommunicative. She had stopped casting black looks at Harry a couple of days ago, and Harry had hoped she was accepting his presence at last. But this morning she definitely seemed 'off'. Harry had the suspicion that the witch somehow knew about Master Snape's night-time visit to Harry and resented it. He mentally shrugged – it was part of his tuition here to learn the old magics, and that included sex magic.

Harry suddenly had the thought that Scylla might be jealous because she'd practiced sex magic with his master until Harry's arrival. A lump formed in his throat and he put his piece of toast back onto his plate, his appetite suddenly gone. His master led the community in the fertility magics – who did Harry think he'd been doing that with up till now?

Miranda immediately noticed Harry's action. It was part of her role to ensure her food was what the community wanted and she'd been watching to see if their newest member had any dislikes. "What's the matter with your toast, Harry?" she asked.

Harry gulped. Now he'd offended the cook and he didn't want to do that. "Nothing, Miranda. I think I just took too much – it looked so good. I know how bad that is of me, wasting the food."

"I know it can be a temptation, but you need to be full for the morning's work. It's a compliment that you want to take plenty, but I didn't think you'd taken more than any other morning."

Harry didn't know what to say. He picked up his mug and hid his consternation by drinking his tea.

"Well, don't force it, that's a sure way to belly ache and extra poundage," Josiah chuckled. "I know all about that." He patted his slightly rounded belly.

Harry didn't think the man was exactly fat. He remembered the vintner's muscular back when he'd stripped for his punishment. Perhaps he had a little middle-aged spread, that was all. Harry gave him a little grin.

Master Snape had been watching Harry carefully. He could tell something was bothering the boy, but it was his duty to apply the Community's rules and guidelines, so he spoke up. "You will read our mottos at dinner tonight, Harry. You might like to memorise the one that says 'The Earth grants us her bounty. Her other creatures do not insult her by wasting that gift. We pledge not to take those gifts lightly.'"

Harry blushed at the chastisement. "Yes, Master." He was starting to feel a bit sick. To distract himself he gathered his plate and mug and took them over to the sink, then headed for the toilet. He put the leftover toast into the box set aside for scraps – these were fed to the animals, usually the chickens. But the box was most often empty, the community members all appreciated the work that had gone into the production of their food and rarely wasted anything. Harry wondered if it was only because he was new here that he hadn't had to punish himself for his act of waste.

Harry managed to avoid being sick, but he didn't manage to avoid a few tears. Why was he feeling like this? It was Scylla who should feel bad – and she obviously had when Harry had arrived. Whatever had happened between her and Master Snape before he arrived shouldn't matter to him, should it? But the more he told himself this, the more Harry's mind displayed visions of Severus embracing the witch, kissing her, running those long, talented hands all over Scylla's slender body. Worse, it didn't stop there, in his mind's eye he saw Severus sucking her nipples, laying on top of her… fucking her. Harry pressed his hand to his mouth stifling a sob and restraining his stomach which wanted to reject its meagre breakfast. He grabbed some toilet paper and wiped his eyes, furiously telling himself that Severus preferred men and wouldn't have spent much time with her. But like Lightning, Severus was responsible for fertility here and he probably had to do sex magic things with Scylla sometimes. Why couldn't the wretched witch have been married?

Severus was beginning to worry. Harry had dashed into the toilet and that had been ten minutes ago. He ate his breakfast slowly, wanting to see Harry when the boy emerged. Something must have upset him, but he'd been fine last night. Had Severus caused this reaction by leaving his room last night?

Scylla wiped her hands on her linen napkin and rose. "I'll get started, then, shall I?"

Severus looked up, startled from his reverie. "Yes, please do. I believe you have just the one batch left to brew?"

Scylla inclined her head. Severus noticed she looked rather smug and couldn't blame her. She'd done well dealing with this large order without his help.

"Then you can deliver them to the warehouse on Diagon Alley tomorrow. Take the day in London, if you will."

Scylla gave a genuine smile. Master Snape usually reserved the days out for his own use. This was a real pat on the back for her. Or maybe, she thought more sourly, as she headed toward the workroom, he was so wrapped up in his new apprentice that he wanted to stay and coddle the boy. She snorted. It would never last – Snape was too self-absorbed. The boy would begin to annoy him soon enough, all she had to do was bide her time and show Snape how efficient she could be, and she was already succeeding.

That morning Severus got Harry to catalogue the equipment in the teaching room, as he was to think of the room Severus had shown him yesterday. "I want you to be familiar with what is available to you, Harry."

Harry had done this and by lunchtime he'd completed the task, which had proved more interesting than expected. He'd come across several complicated glass vessels that he had no idea what they were used for or what they were called and had asked Severus. The work had occupied him all morning and when they headed for lunch he thought he might even manage to eat something.

The standard lunchtime fare in summer was sandwiches and salad, with scones and fruit available too. Coffee and tea pots were steaming in the centre of the long table. Harry made sure to help himself to one sandwich at a time, wary in case he ended up wasting anything. Once he started eating he realised how hungry he was and soon forgot his morning woes.

Miranda smiled at him, pleased to see him eating again with his usual enthusiasm. Perhaps the young man had been homesick for a while… it was a new start for him, after all.

Harry looked at the oldest member of the Community who was sitting nearly opposite him next to Scylla, remembering he needed to ask him something. "George, please may I come to the library this evening? I hoped I could take a book or two to my room for bedtime reading."

"My guest is arriving soon," George said. "But of course you're welcome to come along. I was wondering if you'd forgotten the library."

"Oh, no! Of course not," Harry hastened to reassure the librarian. "I've just been so busy settling in."

George smiled and the many wrinkles on his old face showed their origins as smile lines.

"But I don't want to disturb you if you have a guest," Harry added.

"Daedalus Diggle comes quite often, Harry," George said. "He is learning calligraphy and illumination. Merlin knows why…" he added, looking impish.

"Now, George. Daedalus is a good soul, a wizard who's enthusiastic about tradition, if a little… eccentric," Severus chided.

"He's a nutter!" Danyel said, giggling.

"Hush, boy, don't you let anyone hear you saying things like that," Jolyon said. "I'm sorry, Master Snape, George; I'll speak to him before Mr Diggle arrives."

Danyel was still giggling, looking over at Harry to try and get him to laugh, too. Harry deliberately concentrated on his sandwich, not a little intrigued about George's guest.

There was the familiar sound of the crack of Apparition and Danyel started giggling harder than ever. Harry looked around with the others to see a short wizard in vibrant, royal blue robes standing at the entrance to the kitchen. "Hello again, all," he said in a voice that sounded like a creaky door. Harry had to bite his lip not to join in with Danyel's laughter, which was beginning to have a rather manic tone now.

"Here, boy!" Jolyon said, standing up. "Come along outside for a bit." Jolyon grabbed Danyel's arm and started pulling him out of the kitchen.

"But my lunch – I want my lunch!" Danyel wailed, appearing like a frustrated five year old now. Harry saw him stamp his feet.

Jolyon was a big, brawny man, strongly muscled from his farming work. He managed to hustle the youth outside as the visitor sidestepped them and watched bemusedly.

"Oh dear, oh dear, I see poor Danyel's getting a little over-excited already," he said as the door closed behind the pair.

"He tends to get excited when guests arrive, Daedalus," George said. "Come over and have some lunch with us."

Mr Diggle lost no time in finding a seat and helping himself to a huge mug of tea and some sandwiches. "I've missed your food, Miranda," he said cheerfully, with a wink.

The cook blushed at this and Harry watched in amazement. Miranda was used to having her food complimented. So was this another romance in the offing, like Abigail and her fisherman? Surely not… the visitor looked like somebody's little old granddad.

Daedalus was about to take a bite of his sandwich when he stopped as if struck with a petrification charm. His eyes were fixed on Harry. Sandwich still poised in midair, he said: "And who is this handsome young chap? A new member, Master Snape?"

Severus inclined his head. "Indeed, Mr Diggle. This is my apprentice, Harry."

"Well, well. You sly old dog. They keep coming like moths to the flame, eh? Well, not surprising with all that fertility magic you do here," he chuckled then went back to the job of eating his sandwich, eyes twinkling.

Harry wondered what Diggle meant. The man was eccentric, certainly that was a good word for him. Loony would be another, Harry thought. Was Harry a moth to Severus' flame?

"Mr Diggle, you surely jest," Severus replied, and he no longer sounded so casual. "Our community is a small one, and few would fit in here. Harry is a very special young man."

"Oh, I don't doubt it," Diggle chuckled through his mouthful. He swallowed and continued: "I doubt you'd choose anyone who hadn't got the right tendencies, Master Snape."

Severus was frowning now and Harry was feeling uncomfortable. What tendencies?

"If you will excuse me, I will return to work," Severus said in a repressive tone of voice.

Harry went to rise, but Severus raised a hand. "Finish your meal, Harry. I have much for you to do this afternoon; you need to eat well as you did not have much breakfast."

For some reason this caused further chuckles from Diggle's end of the table. George looked embarrassed by his visitor's antics and hurried to divert him. "I have that new vellum I told you about. I've started a new page and the results are very special."

"The vellum you ordered from Turkey, George? Oh good!" The odd little wizard put down his sandwich and rubbed his hands together. "Soft, young things make the best materials, eh?" and he started chuckling again.

"Er… yes, well kidskin is definitely the best thing for fine calligraphy," George agreed awkwardly.

Harry gobbled the rest of his sandwiches and drank his tea as quickly as he could. It was a bit worrying that Daedalus Diggle seemed to be making all sorts of hints about him when Harry wasn't sure what he meant by them.

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Chapter 6: Learning To Create by Rakina

Chapter 6: Learning to Create

Back in the Potions research room, Severus was already preparing a standard potion base. He looked up as Harry entered.

"The man is our guest. He is not really doing anything wrong, but I found him offensive. I'm sorry I left you there, but you do need to eat properly. Mens sana in corpore sano*, as I'm sure you know."

Harry nodded. "What did he mean about me?" he asked, wondering if Severus would tell him.

Severus frowned and stopped dealing with the base. He looked seriously at Harry. "Diggle knows I prefer males. He was implying you had come here merely to be my… personal servant. My sex toy, if you will."

Harry blushed. "Oh!" he didn't quite know what to say about that. In a way, perhaps he was just that, and even if he was, did he mind?

"Harry," Severus said. "Because I am teaching you Earth and Sex Magics, which are perfectly respectable areas of study for a young wizard, it does not make you my toy. I respect you as my apprentice, and as more than that."

Harry swallowed, unsure exactly what Severus meant.

"Is that what you want from me? A Master in the sexual sense?" asked Severus carefully.

Now Harry didn't know what to say. Severus could see the confusion on the boy's face. "I'm sorry, this is foolish. A silly old man is making life awkward and there is no reason for it to be so. You are my apprentice. I will teach you all you need to know. You can stay here with me, as part of the community, as long as you wish. You know these things, don't you?"

Harry nodded. "Yes, Master."

"And yet I see something is troubling you. It is best if we sort this out now, before it becomes a problem."

"I -" Harry didn't know what to say. He didn't know exactly what was bothering him. Except that was a lie, wasn't it? Master Snape was bothering him, invading his dreams, making him feel so nervous he couldn't eat. Master Snape, attracting people here – moths to a flame – having sex rites with all the others. But how could he say that? It was up to his master who he had sex with, not up to Harry, the apprentice, to say what his master could and could not do. "Nothing, Master Snape. Really. It's just that everything's still new to me, and I feel a bit unsure sometimes what to say, especially to a guest like that."

Severus continued to look closely at Harry, sure there was more, but Harry said nothing else. He couldn't force his boy to talk to him.

"Then come and pay attention, I am going to show you the principles of creating a simple potion; this one for a sore throat."

Severus spent the afternoon teaching Harry the principles of creation, which was to utilise partly what he'd learned so far and partly his instinct. It was a hard concept for anyone to master. So far, through OWL and NEWT level studies, Harry had learned to be precise in using established recipes. Students of these courses were expected to gain some appreciation of how ingredients worked in combination, but they had as yet little idea why a combination of, say, crushed moonstone and bat's wings could be the basis of an Enlargement draught and also of a Warming solution. Severus explained how the tendency of the combined ingredients to make things bigger could also be used to stimulate the body's response to cold. He then explained the opposite effects of a mixture of centaury and powdered bloodstone.

"Now – to cure a sore throat, what do you think is necessary, Harry?"

Harry frowned. He'd had no medical training and told Severus so.

"You do not need to know those things in any detail. Think with your body and your intuition."

Harry remembered the feelings he'd got when he had a cold and his throat was so sore he couldn't swallow. "I think a sore throat feels angry… swollen. Perhaps if we used the shrinking properties of centaury and bloodstone…"

"Yes! Exactly right. A sore throat is caused by the cells in that area being upset. They react to the illness by swelling so a soothing draught needs to do the opposite. Centaury and bloodstone make a very simple cure which soothes quickly but wears off quickly. How can it be improved?"

Harry spent the rest of the afternoon tweaking the recipe: adding ingredients that made the reaction slower; adding herbs that had an affinity with the throat and mucus membranes; tasting the result; grimacing; adding flavourings that would make the draught more palatable without interfering with its action. The cherry flavouring he thought would work stopped the activity of the bloodstone, so it was back to the drawing board. Harry had just chosen to try orange – citrus fruits being very different – when Severus stopped him.

"It's nearly past dinner time, Harry. Pack up now."

Harry hadn't noticed the time. He came back to reality with a start.

Severus smiled. "You begin to appreciate the excitement of potions research, then?"

"It's amazing; I wanted to try something else –"

"There's always something new to try, Harry. Who knows what we may find tomorrow?"

The two men walked back through the empty Potions room – Scylla must have left earlier, the Worry-wart Bane stood finished and packed into boxes on her workbench. "It's your turn to read the mottos tonight, Harry, so your stomach will have to rumble a bit longer, I'm afraid."

Harry, basking in the new-found companionship with Severus, hardly cared. He took the book of sayings and read them while the others ate, taking care to include the one against waste.

Danyel seemed subdued; he kept darting glances at Daedalus Diggle, but obviously daren't say anything. Harry suspected his father had punished him for his earlier outburst, though Harry blamed Diggle as much as Danyel. The impish old wizard seemed to enjoy livening people up and spent a lot of the mealtime asking Scylla how she liked working with the new Potions apprentice. Scylla was obviously uncomfortable, but launched into the tale of how she was delivering the products to Slug & Jiggers' warehouse tomorrow and how nice Diagon Alley was at this time of year.

Harry quite admired her for it.

After what seemed ages, Severus signalled him to come and get his food. It was shepherd's pie, runner beans and peas, and Harry was pleased to see there was a large portion left. He felt really hungry now. Potions research really stimulated the brain and the appetite.

As George left, he reminded Harry to come along for his books. Harry nodded and promised he would.

Severus lingered longest. Miranda was magically clearing the food things away and washing up. Lydia was helping, but everyone else had gone to the communal sitting room to play cards or just chat.

"Harry, I will be along later," Severus said as he rose to leave. He lightly touched Harry's hand as he went.

After dinner Harry, full of shepherd's pie and rhubarb crumble (the community tended to get food in waves, and at present the rhubarb crop needed eating before it got too old and woody) headed for the library. George was in his workroom with Diggle, showing the old wizard how to form the letter W with curlicues and optional animal decorations. He looked up when Harry came in.

"You have a go now, Daedalus. I'll just help young Harry in the library. I don't expect we'll be long."

Harry chose a book on the history of the island – a far more extensive book than he'd seen before, this had both Muggle and wizard history and traditions – and a volume called Unresolved Mysteries of the Wizarding World. He thanked George for his help and headed to his cell.

It was only half past eight, but Harry wasn't sure whether he wanted to go to the community room and join in with the card games. It would be light for a couple more hours and was a lovely evening, so as he had spent all day indoors he decided to go for a stroll before bedtime. Master Snape wouldn't come to his room yet, he was fairly sure. Mind made up, he left his books on his bookshelf and headed out.

Harry walked to the farmyard, familiar with that area. Abigail was leaning on the paddock railings looking at the horses, her long, brown hair blowing in the breeze.

"Lightning's back!" Harry said.

"Hi, Harry. Yes, he's down from the hills, his job's done for another year. Well, with our mares anyway. We've a couple booked in from Farmer Tennent on Canna at the weekend. We often exchange animals with him to keep our stock healthy. He's got a couple of black cart ponies he wants Lightning to cover, wants the grey colour in his herd. We'll put them in the little paddock behind the barns so Lightning doesn't get distracted by these two." She pointed to where the stallion was grazing next to Hamish and Jock, occasionally stopping to nudge one of his companions with his muzzle.

"He looks happy," Harry commented.

"He is. He likes the boys, you know," she said with a wink.

Harry did know. He understood exactly how Lightning felt. He was also pretty sure he knew how Abigail felt after their trip to Galmisdale. "Been to the village again?" he asked, trying to sound casual.

Abigail looked at him. "You're teasing me," she accused.

"Me?" Harry tried to look innocent.

"Yes, you. Was I that obvious?"

"Well, yeah... you were really," Harry said, grinning.

"I won't take anyone else with me then, if I'm that obvious. I usually take Danyel and he wouldn't think anything of it. He's always too busy pretending to be a fisherman while I talk to James."

"He's a Muggle, isn't he?" Harry asked.

Abigail froze. "Yes. And I know I shouldn't like him that way, but I do. He's strong, and dependable, and polite, and … oh, I don't know. I just like him."

"There's nothing wrong with that, is there?" Harry knew magical folk married Muggles sometimes.

"No, I suppose not. But I live in a magical community where Muggle things are not allowed. And I love it here." She sighed, rather sadly.

Harry wished he hadn't raised the subject now, so he continued chatting about the horses and asked her to show him the other paddock before continuing his walk. "Would you like to walk with me?" he asked.

"Why, yes, kind sir," she said with a curtsey. "I'd love to walk out with you."

Harry knew the young witch was teasing him now and laughed.

*Mens sana in corpore sano = A healthy mind in a healthy body.

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Chapter 7: Auras And Enrichment by Rakina

Chapter 7: Auras and Enrichment

Harry had a long, hot shower when he got back. The evening was still very warm and Abigail had taken him to see the beehives. Like everything on Eigg, it was fascinating, and Harry hoped to spend some time later working with Richeldis Machin, the beekeeper. She hadn't been at the hives this evening – Harry had learned that she was an eager card-player.

He sighed as the hot water cleansed and refreshed his body. He headed back to his room feeling warm, dry and ready for his next lesson. His balls felt tight with anticipation, and he longed to emulate Lightning and start nuzzling his male companion.

He'd only just started to read Unresolved Mysteries of the Wizarding World when a soft knock came at the door. Harry put his new book aside without another thought and hurried to let his master in.

"Hello, master."

Severus was wearing a long gown tonight, not his working robes. His hair was obviously damp so Harry assumed he'd had his shower before coming to his room tonight. His heart jumped – perhaps Severus would stay longer afterwards.

When they sat side by side on the bed, Severus said, "I will give you a lesson on auras, Harry. You will need to be able to see auras to truly appreciate the rites we take part in. Not everybody can do it, but I am confident you can be taught."

Harry nodded. He wasn't too sure what an aura was, having never seen one. He knew it was some sort of light that surrounded people and each person's looked different.

Severus waved his wand and dimmed the lights; Harry blinked until his vision adjusted to the nearly-dark room. Severus said a spell: "Revelo sublucis."

Harry squinted at Severus, unsure what he'd see.

"You need to look less fervently, Harry. You must relax, let the light show itself to you, rather than go looking for it."

Harry thought this sounded a bit like something his old Divination teacher, Professor Trelawney, might have said. How could light reveal itself… either it was there or it wasn't. He must have looked sceptical, because Severus clucked his tongue.

"The ability to see auras is somewhat like that of designing potions. It is instinct above learning. I cannot show you how to do it, only provide the circumstances that might lead to you seeing it." He fished in the pockets of his robes before pulling out a bottle. Harry thought it was Severus' wizard bottle but then noticed this one was blue, not black.

"A drink?" Severus asked.

"What is it?" Harry sounded suspicious, unsure whether Severus was offering him a potion.

"Whisky, some of Josiah's best."

Harry still looked uncertain.

"Haven't you tried whisky before?"

"I tried some at the wine tasting last year." Harry remembered the burning liquid that had shocked him then.

"Well, sip just a little, hold it in your mouth and then let it trickle down your throat." Severus offered the bottle to Harry. "You'll find it's good for adding to the ambience and switching off the logical part of your mind. The trick with Josiah's firewhisky is to take it carefully. But do take it."

Harry hesitated a while, wondering if he should summon a glass, but Severus made a tipping gesture so Harry lifted the bottle to his lips. The liquid burned as soon as it touched his tongue.

Severus watched Harry and smiled as Harry tentatively took another sip. "Come here now," he said.

Harry put the bottle on the side table and shuffled closer to his master.

Severus drew Harry into a kiss. He was supposed to be teaching auras, but first he wanted to do this. Harry's mouth tasted heady with the traces of whisky and the underlying sweetness of the young man's own flavour. Severus realised the soft moaning was coming from his own throat and was startled once again by the intensity of his feelings for Harry now he was his apprentice. He held Harry tight, not wanting to relinquish him, awash with a feeling of such possessiveness he could only wonder at himself.

As the kiss ended, Harry looked up into Severus' eyes. His master was holding him as if he never wanted to let him go. "Master Snape?"

"Can you see it, Harry?"

Severus could see Harry shining brightly, his aura mostly silver-white, with green coruscations. He so wanted Harry to be able to see them, wanted to share everything with Harry – all his knowledge and all the magic of the rites that still lay ahead of them.

"Oh!" Harry breathed out. "It's… is it like a ghost? A bit… well, it's silvery… and blue. There's blue lines shimmering in it and… oh, Severus, it's beautiful."

Harry was looking at Severus with slightly unfocussed eyes and Severus knew the young man was seeing his aura. Silver and blue, that sounded right. He smiled at Harry, as proud as a mother hen with a new chick, and nodded.

Severus reached for the bottle and took a drink, offering it to Harry again. "You've done it, Harry. You'll be able to see it again whenever you try. You have to be in low light and relaxed enough to do it, though."

"I think you'll have to kiss me to make it work," Harry said with a little grin. "That's what did it, Severus."

Severus snorted. "That and the firewhisky." He released Harry and fumbled in the pocket of his gown, withdrawing his wizard bottle which he placed on the side table, and a small, purple glass vial. "Do you want to come tonight?"

Harry's eyes widened in surprise. Severus had proposed it without missing a beat, as if it was nothing more than a task they had to perform. "Er… yes, sir."

"I've told you to call me Severus here, please do it, Harry." Harry looked abashed. "Do you have your bottle?"

"Oh, it's still in my robes," Harry said, jumping up and hurrying over to find it.

"Always keep it near, Harry."

Harry came back and put it on the table next to Severus'. Severus was standing and taking his gown off, putting his wand onto the table. He was naked underneath and Harry paused to stare at the wonderful, pale body revealed. He could stand and stare forever; the sight was a feast for his eyes. But then, the more he looked, the more he wanted to touch. He extended his hand.

"Clothes first. Take them off."

Harry hurried to obey, stripping off his pyjamas and standing to face his master as naked as he was. The embarrassment he'd felt before didn't seem to affect him and he smiled. Severus stepped closer and pulled Harry to him, devouring his mouth with urgency. The large, erect cock pressing into Harry's belly was also telling him of his master's urgency.

Severus drew Harry onto the bed so they were sitting side by side, leaning against pillows. "You have such an effect on me, Harry. I think of you all day and cannot wait for our time together. I will fill that bottle before the equinox at this rate."

Harry grinned.

"And yet, I have brought the Enrichment potion tonight to teach you its use. All it does is increase the quantity of semen. The more we have to use at the fertility rites, the better the results, as you can imagine."

Harry nodded, not having a clue what the semen would be used for, imagining all sorts of weird things – his mind conjured up sheep, or women, and he hoped neither were involved. But it made sense that if you had more magical essence it must make the rite more potent.

"I will teach you the potion soon. It is simple enough and has just that one effect. One mouthful before sexual activity is enough."

Severus passed the vial to Harry, who took a mouthful. It tasted a bit like some sort of over-ripe fruit. "Um... Severus…" Harry had thought of something but it was really embarrassing to ask.

Severus took a mouthful of the potion and then waited impatiently to hear what Harry wanted, but the young man had come to a halt. "Well?"

"Oh… never mind."

"But I do mind. Something is bothering you, and you will tell me. There must be no secrets between master and apprentice, Harry. Don't you understand that?"

Harry was blushing furiously, but Severus wasn't going to let him off the hook. He stared at Harry and waited. Harry swallowed and blurted it out: "If you have sex… if you ejaculate inside someone… surely the seed doesn't go into the bottle then?"

Severus took Harry's hands, which Harry was clasping anxiously in his lap, and lifted them to his lips, kissing them reassuringly before replying. "It depends, Harry. If there is copious semen that is going to waste, trickling down your leg perhaps –"

Harry felt blood rush to his groin at that image.

"– you can say the spell. The excess will be bottled. But normally, penetrative sex is a dedication, a way of gifting your essence and power to your partner. Sex should not be taken lightly by magical folk."

"Power?"

"Remember I told you how each orgasm strengthens your magical field? If you have an ejaculation in another person's body, it is their field you strengthen more than your own. However," Severus continued briskly, wanting to get on with the sexual relief he now needed rather badly, "while we practice mutual masturbation, we strengthen our own fields, simply and effectively."

Harry nodded as Severus let his hands go and pulled Harry closer before reaching down to the young man's erect cock. Harry gasped in pleasure as the hands began to tend to his needs – his each and every need. Severus knew just how to do this and it felt so much better than he could do for himself. He looked down at the long-fingered hands playing over his cock, moving up and down slickly – he hadn't seen Severus applying the lube, but Severus must have done so, possibly magically – and he wanted to do the same for his master. He reached out and found Severus' own cock.

Hot. Hard. Smooth and yet ridged. It felt so good and he ran his hands up and down. Severus let go of Harry's cock and put his hands over Harry's where they held his own. "Hold my hands."

Harry turned his hands over, reluctantly releasing his master, and Severus wiped his own slick palms over Harry's, sharing the slipperiness. "Now continue," he said quietly, and after pausing to take a kiss, resumed his attentions to Harry's cock.

Harry was so hard, so excited, he didn't think he'd take long. He wasn't quite sure where his mind was just now… half of it – probably more than half – was in his lap feeling the wonderful things his master was doing to him, the things he was showing him – and the other part was in his hands, feeling the sensations his fingers were enjoying as they played Severus' cock like a musical instrument.

After a minute or two there was no argument about where his mind had flown… he could feel his orgasm approaching, an almost unbearable tension gathering in his balls, making his cock harder than ever. His heart was thundering out of control, his head tilted back and he cried out.

He began to spurt. He could feel his cock spasming almost painfully and great gobs of semen spattering over his belly. He cried out with each mind-blowing pulse: "Oh… oh… oh…oh!"

Severus' hands continued to milk Harry's cock through the most violent orgasm of the young man's life. Harry's head felt like it was going to explode and he could hardly get his breath. He was panting as if he was starved for oxygen. "Please…" he cried.

Severus watched with satisfaction as Harry melted in his hands. Harry's hands had dropped from Severus' penis some while ago when Harry's orgasm got too close for the young man to think of anything else. Severus needed to come, too. He was so hard… watching Harry come undone hadn't made that need any less urgent. Soon, he assured himself…

Harry leaned back on his pillows and breathed deeply, trying to ground himself. He'd never felt it that strong before. Harry felt as if he'd just run a race and his legs felt as wobbly as if he'd covered miles. He opened his eyes and saw Severus watching him.

"Transfero, Harry."

Harry said the spell and watched as what seemed like a much larger quantity of semen than last night entered the bottle. When he looked back at Severus, his master was leaning back slightly, his erection standing out red and demanding. Severus' dark eyes were fixed on him. Harry blushed. He wished he could do this more smoothly. Coming, putting your spunk into the bottle and finishing your partner shouldn't be so damned awkward, should it? He pulled himself together and took Severus' cock in hand again.

Once he'd grasped it, his hands took over. His movements were becoming more assured now as he stroked, squeezed and tugged. The more friction he provided the more Severus moaned and Harry smiled as he watched the man getting more and more desperate to come.

Severus' cock was a wonderful sight and Harry wondered what it would taste like, and then wondered where the thought had come from. He should have been embarrassed except he was too busy watching his master.

Severus' face looked pained. His eyes were screwed shut, his hair hung around his face and his lips were drawn into a strange smile. And Harry just wanted to make it worse for him – wanted to make it more intense. He gave a twist and swept his forefinger over the head of Severus' cock, as he'd felt the man do to him.

Severus moaned. Oh, Merlin. He looked amazing… and Harry was doing it to him, he was making that trickle of sweat run down his master's face.

"Harry…" Severus moaned as his hips thrust upwards, seeking more, always more.

Suddenly Harry knew what more he could give to this wonderful man who had offered him a future. He leaned down and kissed the head of the cock, the slick, smooth skin feeling hot but familiar, even though he'd never done anything like this before. And it wasn't enough. He wanted to taste so he opened his mouth and slipped the head inside.

And it was odd, so odd… unlike anything else. It was bitter and yet there was sweetness too: the sweetness of flesh that wanted him more than anything on this Earth, the bitterness of the fluid that nestled in the slit.

Severus cried in surprise and his eyes flew open. Harry's head was bowed over his lap and the boy's mouth was around his cock. "Ah! Harry… oh, Harry!" and to his mortification he started to come with a suddenness that seemed to be normal when he was with Harry.

Harry let go as a jet of bitter fluid flooded his mouth. Master Snape had come! He choked a little and pulled back and another copious rush of the fluid shot over his face. He looked up, startled, to see Severus looking down at him, watching with a fierce, rapt expression as with each pulse Harry's face was covered in creamy fluid which started to drip down his cheeks.

"Harry." Severus' voice was deeper than ever, full of lust. Harry trembled and stayed still as if paralysed, unsure what to do next. "Oh, Harry, that looks so hot, you can't imagine," Severus said. Then he forced himself to act, not wanting to panic the virgin boy. "Transfero."

The semen magically transferred to Snape's bottle and Harry gasped at the rasping sensation as his face was cleaned. Even his lips tingled and he blushed at the thought that there was still semen in his mouth; he'd even swallowed some. Perhaps it was bad manners to take a man's semen and some of his power without being offered? "I'm sorry," he mumbled, his eyes still wide with the shock of what had happened.

Severus' hand reached across and stroked Harry's cheek, wanting to touch his boy, to show appreciation of the wonderful gift the young man represented to a lonely, eccentric wizard who'd effectively fled the Wizarding world with a group of other misfits. "There is nothing to be sorry for, Harry. You are a gift."

"But I took your… er…"

"I wanted to give you my semen, Harry. Have wanted to from the first moment I met you. And now you let me give it to you. Did you swallow some?"

Harry blushed again, and wished he wouldn't keep doing it. "Yes, Severus."

"Good. Some of my magical essence is inside you now, joining with yours. The more we do things together, the closer we will become. Do you see that?"

"So you don't mind… I thought you wanted it for the bottle."

Severus smiled. "The bottle is for semen that is not gifted, Harry. I would happily gift every drop of mine to you."

Harry goggled at Severus.

"Surely you know," Severus continued, his rich voice seeming to burrow deep into Harry's bones, "that I want to be joined to you, as close as we can be?"

Harry nodded solemnly. He knew that was what he wanted and he thought he'd just floated into paradise when he heard Severus saying that to him.

"Then will you accept me, Harry Potter?" Severus asked.

Harry nodded again. "Oh, yes please."

Severus smiled and gathered Harry into his arms, settling beside him. "All will be well, Harry."

Harry nodded. He wasn't quite sure what all this meant, but it felt serious. Maybe it was for the fertility rites, or maybe it was about something else. Severus was so strangely intense and he assumed Harry knew a lot about magic, but in many ways Harry was a novice. A lot of the things wizards understood about their ways were unknown to Harry; he'd never caught up with his peers after having been raised by Muggles. At Hogwarts nobody had bothered to tell him about Wizarding traditions, it wasn't part of the curriculum.

Harry snuggled into Severus' embrace. Severus pulled the covers up over them and they soon slept. When Severus woke a couple of hours later he decided to return to his own cell, but only reluctantly. It was his duty as Master of the Community to be available to his little flock and they would expect him to be in his own cell. And it was his own rule that he was breaking – after lights out nobody was allowed out of their cells until 6am. Severus would have to repeat the punishment of last night, but it was worth it. Of course, if he eventually married Harry that would solve the problem nicely, but it was not appropriate to mention it while the boy was still his apprentice. He stalked back along the corridor, sure of his route despite the near-total darkness. If anybody had been there and could have seen in the dark, if they had glimpsed his face as he walked by, they would have seen that he was smiling.

Revelo sublucis = show the 'under-light'.

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Chapter 8: Hedwig Finally Gets A Job by Rakina

Chapter 8: Hedwig Finally Gets A Job

Time flew by, as it does when you're busy, but Harry still had some time to himself. There were the inevitable occasions when Master Snape had to deal with administrative decisions, or visit other parts of the Wizarding world, and Harry was left on Eigg – Severus said everyone needed time to themselves.

July passed in a heat wave, and though Harry saw little of it as he was working in the cool heart of the Potions workrooms, he heard about it every day at mealtimes and watched the outdoor workers darkening from tanned to nut-brown. Harry sometimes went for a walk in the evenings when it was still very warm but the sun was much less fierce and the result was that his skin turned golden. A lot of evenings he spent swimming naked with Danyel in the large fish pond, which provided the Community with a welcome change of diet from just lamb or chicken in the winter. Danyel, who was always brimming over with energy, was as happy as a fish in the water, jumping in, splashing around joyfully. Harry found the sessions liberating – he could cavort like a boy again, his responsibilities forgotten.

On one memorable evening – Harry's birthday – Severus joined them, but Harry was glad it only happened once. The sight of his master's pale, wiry body made Harry half-hard the entire time, despite the cool water. Anyone other than Danyel would have noticed and wondered at it, but to Danyel sexual reactions were of no more significance than scratching an itch. Several times Harry had seen Josiah sending Danyel to his cell when he had started touching himself at dinner time or during their evening social time.

When Harry's skin had acquired an all-over golden tan after his regular swims it had a very welcome result – Severus seemed to find it fascinating. During their private time together Severus would stroke Harry's lightly-tanned arms, his legs, or his chest in obvious appreciation.

Severus gave Harry a little pottery figurine of a hare for his birthday. He'd made it himself and that made it special to Harry; Severus explained that he'd chosen the hare because it was the creature the people of the islands linked with fertility. "With fertility of the land and people comes the security that many more generations will live here and continue our way of life," he explained.

August continued in the same vein, with heat, work and a steady stream of visitors to the guest house. Occasionally Harry would see these folk when they came to help on the farm or in the herb garden. They were another source of income for the Community, though they paid relatively little to stay in the guest house. The pasture was drying out and the sheep wandered far and wide to graze. Their lambs were growing on and the flock had been sexed. The young rams wore earrings – that's how Harry thought of them – to show Jolyon which could be sent to the magical market later in the year. Some of the older ewes would feed the Community over winter, making room for the ewe-lambs within the flock. Harry felt sorry for the young rams, trotting around with their blue earrings, marked for death because they were born male.

Harry had almost forgotten about Hogwarts. In some ways he felt like he'd belonged to Eigg since he'd been born and now he was here he didn't want to be anywhere else. But he also knew that he hadn't seen the different seasons and the routines they brought… he hadn't yet lived through a Scottish island winter.

His days were very rarely disturbed by news of the outside world and it was with surprise that he received an official-looking tawny owl at breakfast one morning at the end of August.

The bird landed in front of Harry's place where he sat next to his master and stuck out his leg towards Harry. The owl looked hot and impatient, so Harry quickly took the letter, wondering who it could be from. He turned the envelope over and saw the addressee: The Ministry of Magic, London. His heart skipped a beat – his NEWT results! What else could it be? He looked up at Severus and saw his master was smiling at him.

"Your results, Harry?"

"I think so."

"If you'd like to open them in private, take them into the small sitting room after breakfast. I will come and see you in a while."

Harry nodded, feeling breathless. The owl hooted tetchily, reminding Harry that he'd not rewarded it for its long journey – Eigg was a very long way from London. "Oh, here you are, you impatient thing." Harry gave the bird a bread and butter soldier from his breakfast place which had sat next to the shell of his boiled egg. He tucked the letter into his work robe and set about helping himself to another egg. Since he'd arrived at the Community his appetite had increased. Not only because Miranda's food was excellent, but because he worked hard and walked every day, either to the pond for swimming, or around the farm, or occasionally into the village with Abigail.

He'd built up a friendship with the young witch. Along with Danyel they were the youngest Community members and Harry felt comfortable with her, knowing that she had her eye on James and he, Harry, didn't have to flirt with her or do any of that awkward stuff. For her part, Abigail could see the bond between master and apprentice and thought it rather proper. It certainly fit right in with Wizarding tradition, which was what the Community was all about.

Harry was gaining weight, but not fat. He was filling out, getting muscles. He hadn't expected that – a potions brewer had to have some muscle, but was usually not brawny. Harry was not very tall and his muscles were starting to make him look square, in his opinion. He didn't know whether he liked it – not that there was much he could do about it – but Severus seemed happy enough. As he stroked Harry's golden skin he'd stop and squeeze his biceps or pinch his pectorals appreciatively. Harry decided he could tolerate his new muscles better after he saw how much Severus liked them.

When he finally felt full, Harry thanked Miranda for the delicious food and banished his plates to the sink. He then nodded respectfully to his master and went to the little sitting room with his letter. He remained standing – he was too nervous to sit down – and quickly tore open the seal.

It read:

Harry James Potter, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry: NEWT results.

Defence Against the Dark Arts – Outstanding

Herbology – Outstanding

History of Magic – Acceptable

Potions – Outstanding

Congratulations from the Ministry of Magic! We wish you a long and productive career in whichever field you choose to follow. Do not forget –the Ministry of Magic has career opportunities for young witches and wizards. Firecall Ministry Jobs, London, for further details.

Harry had taken four NEWTs – seventh years took between three and five subjects – and he'd got Outstanding on all except History of Magic. He'd struggled during those lessons because the teacher was so dry (literally, he was a ghost), but he'd still taken it because he'd desperately wanted to learn more about the Wizarding world. At least he hadn't failed, so presumably he knew something of the subject, but he was learning so much more here on Eigg and had become only too aware of the vast gaps that still remained in his knowledge.

The door opened and Severus came in. "Is all well, Harry?"

Harry looked up with a smile and offered the results to his master. Severus took the letter, scanned the page and smiled. "Very good. But I knew you would do well. Come." Severus spun on his heel and opened the door to leave, Harry followed.

"Apprentice masters reward their charges' achievements, Harry. You have gained four NEWTs, three at the highest level."

Harry followed Severus, a little bewildered. Severus wasn't going to the Potions workrooms but was heading toward the dormitory. Through the door to the corridor which was lined with bathrooms and cells, where he stopped outside room no. 1. Severus waved his hand and the locking spell released to let them in.

Harry had never been in Severus' cell before. It was larger and more luxurious than the ordinary rooms, with more furniture and an impressive desk piled with papers. There was a fireplace which looked large enough to Floo from, as well. Harry wondered if it was joined to the network but thought it would be rude to ask.

Severus went over to a trunk and lifted the lid. He started rummaging. "Ah! The very thing."

Closing the trunk he turned to Harry, holding something towards him. "Come, Harry."

Harry crossed the thick woollen rug until he stood in front of Severus. Severus pinned an enamel badge on his chest. "The insignia of the Potions Guild. This is awarded to a first level competent brewer, which your Potions NEWT entitles you to. Wear it on your work robes."

Harry's heart swelled with pride. "Thank you, Severus." He felt like a real brewer now, not just a helper, a little boy just out of school. He wondered if Scylla had one – he hadn't seen her wearing any badges.

Severus embraced Harry and kissed him formally. "Well done." Harry felt a little disappointment when Severus released him. "Now, we'll go and work. I'll announce your achievements at lunchtime."

Harry nodded, smiling, and set off after his master for another day's work. He was learning so much, but a lot of it was instinctive, picked up from the experience of working side by side with Severus, and not the sort of thing you could write down. He wondered if other Potions students learned like this…

That evening Harry decided not to go to the pond. Instead, he wanted to write a letter. His friend Neville would have his NEWT results too and Harry wanted to share his excitement and catch up with the quiet boy.

He sat at his own desk in his cell, got out parchment and quill, and started to write:

August 23rd, 1998

Dear Neville,

It's been ages since I saw you, but it's gone so quickly. I've been so busy here, learning lots and working hard.

I expect you're still on holiday, but here on Eigg there aren't really any holidays, we have to work all year (except a few days like Halloween and Christmas). That's what monasticism is about, all working together and keeping to our own world. Well, you know that from your visit last year.

I got my NEWT results today! I got all Os except History of magic, which I'm just pleased I got through (I got an A) because it was a struggle to stay awake half the time. Well, you know, because you did that subject too. What marks did you get? Bet you got an O+ in Herbology.

Master Snape gave me a badge from the Potions Guild. It's dark green enamel with a cauldron, wand and some plants around the edge all done in silver. Slytherin colours!

It feels odd when I think you're still at Hogwarts. Professor Sprout's apprentice! I hope you're getting on well with her. I've settled in here and at times it's like I've never been anywhere else. And you should see me – I'm eating so well that I'm beginning to look like Hamish the Hefter!

Let me know your news, Nev.

Love, Harry.

Harry gave Hedwig the letter. It had been ages since he'd used her and she looked a bit surprised to see him. She too was looking in wonderful condition. The old, comfortable roost suited her and the plentiful diet of mice did, too. She hooted softly at his direction and when he ordered "Neville Longbottom, Hogwarts" she took off gracefully.

She returned the next day at lunchtime with a reply attached to her leg. Harry took the letter and gave Hedwig a piece of sheep's cheese, which she loved. She hooted a 'thank you' and flew off to her beloved roost in the farmyard. Harry tucked the letter into his robes, he'd read Neville's news before bed. Right now, Master Snape needed his help with a complex experiment he was continuing into the possibility of producing a working Longevity potion. These were considered Dark; Severus knew it and told Harry, but he also said there could be benefits to the Wizarding population if he could modify the very dubious original recipe.

As August ended and September arrived the world changed. The days were noticeably shorter now. The evening air sometimes had a nip to it and Harry had to hurry to dry himself off after swimming in case he got chilled. The farm and garden areas were feverishly busy as the crops came to harvest. Harry and the rest of the Community helped outside some days. Master Snape expected them to have stockpiled their own production so they would be able to help the growers, as Lydia (Abigail's mum) told Harry one morning as they picked grapes.

"It's a very seasonal lifestyle, Harry. Each year follows a pattern, but the pattern changes throughout the year. It's never boring."

Harry agreed. Eigg was wonderful and could never be boring in his opinion. He mentally sneered at the memory of the effete Draco Malfoy and how out-of-place and scathing he'd been during their visit last year. But Harry realised deep-down that it wasn't the boy's fault – he'd been brought up to be an elitist bore, the son of a long line of elitist bores.

In fact, everything in the metaphorical garden was lovely, but still Harry couldn't stop the niggling worm of doubt that wriggled into his mind at times. Severus had come to him most nights and their wizard bottles were getting alarmingly full – they hadn't taken Enrichment potion for the last week or more – but still they did nothing apart from mutual masturbation or oral sex. Not that Harry was complaining; having Severus suck him off was the most amazing thing he'd ever felt. But there was more to sex, Harry knew that. More that Severus could do to him, but chose not to. Was it because he didn't fancy Harry enough? Was it because he didn't want a permanent relationship with the boy, despite saying Harry could stay on Eigg as long as he liked?

Was Harry even a virgin still? He didn't feel like a virgin because he indulged in regular sexual activity. But he'd never been penetrated, or penetrated anyone else for that matter, and that was what defined virginity, wasn't it? So yes, he rather thought he was still a virgin. And it made him unsure of exactly what his relationship with Severus meant.

Scylla seemed to sense his uncertainty and played on it. "Master Snape is a unique wizard, such a master of fertility magic… but you wouldn't know, would you?" she said to Harry when Severus had left them alone to brew a batch of 5* Lube together.

And Harry had nothing to say to that, because he didn't know about it. But he hoped Severus would show him. And most of all he hoped he wouldn't make a fool of himself when he saw Severus doing those special magics with the women. Or perhaps he did it with one of the men? The jealous part of Harry really didn't know which would be worse.

Harry hated feeling jealous, but he couldn't help it. He wanted Severus. Wanted him so badly and just for himself. For himself, forever and ever, and the more he tried to deny it, the more it niggled at him and insisted it had to be so, that anything less would make him unhappy. Harry had never thought that love would hurt like this. And was it love if he felt so alarmingly possessive? He sometimes had awful thoughts and dreams in which he'd be tearing Scylla limb from limb when Severus went to her during the rites. In one dream he even physically attacked Abigail for attracting his master.

Harry dropped his head into his hands. This was stupid! Severus didn't even want the witches, he never looked at them, he was just nice to them because they were Community members, his friends and helpers…

When Severus came to him that evening, Harry clung to him as if scared to let him go. Severus picked up on the boy's desperation and just held him, repressing the wince as Harry hugged him back tightly, squeezing his sore, welted back. Severus understood the violence of a young man's feelings, his passions… he understood them only too well. He held Harry and gentled him, then tried to show him his feelings by stroking him, kissing him, nursing him to orgasm without being too demanding. Harry needed to know that he was special, that he wasn't just Severus' fuck toy like that idiot Diggle had implied. Severus was taking care not to let Harry think that, which was why he was holding off on the ultimate act until later.

Harry rested in his master's arms after a delightful orgasm. He felt cared for… but was he loved? Harry wished he knew and at the same time cursed himself for being so needy. He could never seem to get enough of Severus' attentions, and the fact that he remained a virgin, even though he'd been here since the end of June, sustained his doubts.

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Chapter 9: Wizards And Muggles by Rakina

Chapter 9: Wizards and Muggles

In the middle of September, when the Muggle tourist season was beginning to come to an end, Abigail asked Harry if he'd like to spend a day with her and James.

"Don't you want to be alone?"

Abigail laughed. "I do love being alone with him – and don't you go telling everyone," she added with a poke to Harry's ribs. "But I think you'd enjoy seeing a bit more of the island before the weather turns, and James offered. He likes you."

"He doesn't know me," Harry said doubtfully.

"Yes he does. I've told him all about what a great guy you are, Harry. You're my friend." Abigail gave Harry a quick hug. "And he knows you're not after me." She gave a wink.

"Oh. You mean…"

"I've told him you're spoken for. That you're with Master Snape."

Harry goggled. "But… aren't Muggles funny about that? Men being together... and I don't know if Master Snape would want us telling the Muggles our business anyway."

"You're right. I've only told James and he'll keep it to himself. I trust him. Some Muggles are funny about same sex relationships, but James is a good man who accepts that some folk are different."

Harry accepted the invitation in the end as Abigail kept asking. She also said she'd ask Master Snape for permission. "You're due a day off. Scylla got to go to Diagon Alley the other week, and I hear she's going to visit her family next week."

This was news to Harry. He didn't think they got days off, and hadn't seen Master Snape take any, unless you counted the times he went away on work. At least, he told Harry it was work. Harry tried not to think suspicious thoughts and concentrated on looking forward to his day out, which Master Snape approved when Abigail approached him, and it was set for Thursday.

Thursday dawned bright and sunny, with a cool breeze that would make travelling pleasant. It could still get warm during the day and Harry was glad he wouldn't get too hot and sweaty today.

"Are we taking the cart?"

"Whatever for? We'll walk to Galmisdale," Abigail said. And so they did. Harry peered at the South Stone as they passed the guest house, but he still hadn't learnt any more about it, with everything else that had kept him occupied he'd forgotten to ask Master Snape about it.

When they approached the village they saw James standing by the jetty. He waved as they approached.

"Hello, Harry. It's good to see you out and about. You've been buried indoors, Abigail tells me."

"Oh, well… I have work to do. And studying as well."

James seemed to sense the boy's reticence and didn't press him. "I thought we'd visit the caves, and then have lunch at my cottage. You must see the Massacre Cave."

"Massacre Cave? That sounds awful"

"Aye, it was. A troubled period of history for the Highland folk. It was in 1577 when the entire population of the island, some 395 souls, sheltered in a cave from a raid. The island folk were MacDonalds, the raiders were from clan MacLeod. Anyway, they tried to force the folk out of hiding by lighting fires to smoke them out, but they all suffocated – men, women and children alike."

James led them along an uphill road away from the pier. To their right was a small woodland. Harry noticed some late flowers of Enchanter's Nightshade and walked over to examine them.

"Enchanter's Nightshade! Does Severus know this grows here?"

Abigail chuckled. "Of course he does, Harry. He gathers some himself or sends me out when it's plentiful, in July and August."

"I remember studying it in Herbology. Its Latin name is circaea lutetiana, named after Circe herself. It's used in lots of potions; it has shape-shifting properties."

James smiled indulgently at Harry. "He's a mite enthusiastic, isn't he?" he said to Abigail in his soft highland burr. "Does he make herbal remedies or some such?"

Abigail nodded. "It's Harry's hobby, Jamie."

The fisherman accepted this happily, and they walked on. Harry kicked himself for forgetting that Jamie was a Muggle, the quiet man's presence was so comfortable. He could understand why Abigail was so drawn to him.

They walked a bit further until they came to a metal gate. "This is the cave path," Jamie said, making sure to shut the gate after them; the islanders had sheep grazing in various areas. Jamie led them off the path and onto a mere sheep track which crossed a grassy meadow. There were still a few flowers blooming and butterflies flitting about, and Harry imagined it must be lovely in spring and early summer. He determined to come back again; he could imagine walking with Severus, gathering herbs, talking…

"Be careful now, this path can be slippery," Jamie warned, interrupting Harry's reverie. They'd reached the clifftop. "There are caves all along this edge of the island, but I'll take ye to the Massacre Cave. It's off to the left."

They scrambled down, Jamie gallantly offering his hand as he got down first. Abigail giggled and Harry blushed as he took the fisherman's large, warm hand to help him down the last bit.

The Massacre Cave was tucked back into the cliffs, its narrow entrance looked foreboding, like a narrow doorway to the underworld. Harry flicked his wand into his hand, about to cast Lumos, when Jamie lit a powerful torch. Harry felt an idiot – this was the second time he'd nearly revealed his magic. He slipped the wand back into his sleeve, but thankfully Jamie hadn't noticed as he was using his torch to point the way for Abigail.

They squeezed through the narrow entrance and went inside. When the cave opened up they stood there, surrounded by darkness save for the beam of Jamie's torch. Harry knew 395 people had died here and the weight of their passing seemed to touch him. He shivered.

"Aye, it's not a comfortable place to be," Jamie said, seeing Harry's reaction. "But everyone has to see this place. 'Tis part of the island, just as much as the beauty o' the place.

"They were grim times. A mere eleven years after this, the repopulated island was plundered by Spanish mercenaries, with much rape, killing and loss of possessions. Thank God things are different now."

"Shall we move on?" Abigail asked. "This place always depresses me."

They left the cave rather gladly, each lost in thought. Harry chanted a prayer of peace for the souls he still felt lingered there.

"Shall we take a walk in the woods?" Jamie asked.

They agreed this would be pleasant and headed back up the cliff path, through the meadows and back towards Galmisdale. Instead of going down to the jetty, they turned along the road that led across the island to Laig Bay and Cleadale.

"How far to the other side?" Harry asked.

"Two and a half miles," Jamie said. "Eigg is only about five miles by three."

"It's tiny, isn't it? I bet 395 people don't live on the island nowadays."

"No. About sixty souls, that's all. And yerselves, of course. But we have shops, a school, a doctor. Well, everything we need, anyway. Not that I ever heard of any of you visiting the doctor," he said with a grin. "You must be a fit lot."

Harry laughed. "We are. And we treat ourselves with our herbal remedies," he added, thinking to turn his earlier slip-up to good use.

"Aye, well. If Abigail is anything to go by, they work mighty well." Jamie shot the witch an appreciative look.

Abigail smiled and kissed his cheek. "You're a charmer, James Grant," she said. He smiled back and captured her lips in a quick kiss.

Harry decided to examine the interesting rock at the side of the track, grinning madly. Abigail and James were very sweet together.

They followed the track leading around the bay and then turned left into the Manse Wood. They spent a good hour just wandering among the trees, listening to the birds, looking at plants and trees and chatting. Harry felt so relaxed here. He took frequent trips off to the side 'to examine that plant over there', leaving the two lovers together. He didn't feel uncomfortable, as he'd feared he might, for they did nothing to make him feel unwanted. But he did feel wistful, imagining how wonderful it would be to be pressed against a tree trunk by Severus, to be thoroughly kissed in this peaceful and beautiful wood.

"Best get back for lunch, I don't know about you but I'm hungry," Jamie said eventually.

They followed him as he walked, quite quickly now, back towards the pier. Jamie led them to a cottage they'd passed earlier on their route to the caves. It was stone-built, whitewashed, and set among light woodland. James let them into the front room and bade them sit, which they did in mismatched but comfortable armchairs before the unlit fire. Harry's hand itched to cast Incendio, but he waited, reminding himself this was a Muggle home. The sight of the telly in the corner helped him remember.

James came in with a large plate of sandwiches and three cups of cider. They were all hungry and little was said as they concentrated on eating.

"It's nearly three o'clock," Abigail exclaimed as she noticed James' mantel clock.

"Aye. We got a bit sidetracked," James said. "I reckon it was Harry's plants that delayed us."

They all laughed.

When they'd eaten, James made a pot of tea and brought in a sponge cake, which they all had a slice of, and James ate two. They relaxed and talked more. James never probed, but Harry let him into a bit of his history – the Muggle part of it anyway.

"We'd best return, Harry; it'll soon be dinner time," Abigail said some while later.

"Thank you for showing me some of the island, James," Harry said to the fisherman.

"Anytime. I enjoyed it," James said, with a wink. "If you feel like coming out on the boat sometime, just come along in the morning. I set out about eight."

"Oh. Er… I'm not much good on the sea, I get a bit sick," Harry admitted, blushing.

"Ah, well. It's not the life for everyone." James sounded a bit regretful.

"But if you could spare the time to show me some more of the island sometime, I would love that."

"Well, that would be nice. And there are plenty more of those plants to find, you know."

So it was agreed, and Harry waited outside a few minutes, leaving Abigail to say goodbye to James. It felt nice to be part of the island and he hoped he'd meet more of the island folk later. Abigail was obviously smitten with James, and it looked like he felt the same about her. Harry knew that someone from the Community would have problems in a relationship with a Muggle, more so than magical folk did normally, and that made him a bit sad. He wished he could have said a spell to turn James into a wizard.

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Chapter 10: At The Change Of The Season by Rakina

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Chapter 10: At The Change Of The Season

Harry had been busy in the workroom and also in the library. His master had sent him off to discover the history of the longevity potions that had been created in past times. Harry soon realised why they were classified as Dark and not approved of by the Wizarding world in general.

To extend the life of a person, power had to be gathered – stolen if you will – from some other source. This other source did not have to be human, but most of the Dark wizards who'd worked on longevity potions had preferred to use human sources. It made the potion easier to produce as there was no risk of cross-species rejection. The potion took the life force of the 'donor' – many donations had been gathered unwillingly – and bound it to stabilising carrier ingredients which would store the life-force until the potion was ingested.

The most common substance for donation was blood. A few researchers had used semen, with a little success, or tried hair, skin or spittle, which had always failed. Women's menstrual blood did work, but as it was diluted with mucus and other fluids it wasn't a favourite either. It did have the advantage of being shed naturally and not harming the donor, so it was a source that had been tried many times. The younger and healthier the donor, the stronger the life force extracted from their blood and a relatively smaller amount was needed, but it still took a large amount to extract a small amount of life force.

Harry closed the Highland Grimoire and shuddered. Surely Severus wasn't planning to use blood? But what else could work as a carrier of life force? This all felt Dark to Harry and he returned to the workroom feeling ill at ease.

"Have you tried to make a longevity potion before, Master?"

Severus looked up from where he was examining butterbur leaves, no doubt choosing the best of the extremely large plants. Butterbur had been reputed to be used to wrap butter in ancient times, hence its name. "I have been researching this group of potions for many years, Harry. Staywell Juice is merely the first step in promoting health. Longevity potion, needless to say, would be the most extreme."

"But it uses blood, doesn't it?"

"Blood is best, yes."

"Do you use menstrual blood?" Harry felt really weird talking about this, but it was only a potions ingredient.

"No. I have no doubt our ladies would gladly offer to provide anything I need, but it is honestly easier to use my own blood for experimentation. The quantity used for research is small. Production, however, would be a different matter."

"Then you couldn't make this potion for production. There'd be too much blood needed, Master."

"Indeed. Did I say this was for the market? No. It is for the use of the Community, Harry. Some of our members are getting a little long in the tooth."

Harry thought of George and Richeldis, and saw why his master was concerned. They were skilled people… lovely people… and Harry certainly wanted them to live a long life. He began to feel a little better about the research.

"For such a small amount of potion, the younger community members could donate without harm. And I include myself in that, of course. I have recently started to experiment using newly-found plants from the Amazon as carrier ingredients – I'm hopeful they'll strengthen the potion as well. The opportunities presented by such an influx of new ingredients make it a very exciting time to be a Potions researcher. Go to the drawer behind me, the latest batch of new plants I've received is in there."

So a new task and subject of study opened up to Harry, and again time slipped past him quickly while he learned avidly.

September 20th, 1998

Dear Neville

It's great that you're enjoying yourself as much as I am. Professor Sprout was always fond of you… (just teasing!).

I'm beginning to learn how to create new recipes, and it's fascinating. I can't tell you about it in a letter though because it'd turn into an essay!

It'd be great if you could visit Eigg again – has Professor Sprout got any plans for next year? Or sooner would be even better…

Hedwig loves it here, I've never seen her looking better. She doesn't get much work these days, except when she comes to you at Hogwarts.

Tomorrow is going to be an important day – it's the autumn equinox and Master Snape has told me I'm going to take part in the special rites. I don't know what's going to happen, but I've got my own wizard bottle ready. Do you know about those? Everybody's heard of witch bottles but these are linked to male magic. I won't write about it here, it's a bit embarrassing, really. But I wondered if you use them in earth magic – Professor Sprout must know all about that…

Harry grinned to himself. He was being wicked. If Neville asked Professor Sprout the resulting lesson could be more than he was expecting.

…The only bad thing here is Master Snape's assistant brewer, Scylla Darke. I don't know if you remember her – she's a black haired, skinny witch who doesn't speak much. When she does speak to me (when my master's not around) she's very snide. A bit like a female Draco, now I think of it. I don't have much to do with her, thank Merlin. I suppose there's always one person who doesn't get on with you, wherever you are. And you've still got Peeves, so I'll stop moaning. At least it's different from school where there was only one person (you) who did get on with me.

I got a really good tan this summer from swimming in the fish pond. Well, it's like a little lake… don't go thinking I was in some ornamental pool with water lilies and a fountain! And I seem to have stopped building muscles, which I'm glad of. I was getting to look square! Master Snape says I'm fine, just right for moving his cauldrons about.

Okay, that's all for now. Write back and I'll let you know how the rites went next letter.

Love, Harry.

Harry folded the letter; he'd send it off early tomorrow morning before he went to breakfast. He was writing it in bed because Severus had told him he wasn't going to visit Harry in his room tonight.

"We need a good night's sleep, Harry." With a significant glance he added, "And we need to conserve our essence for tomorrow. Your bottle should be spelled sealed and ready for the rite now. I will gather the group after breakfast tomorrow. Sleep well."

Harry sat in the small sitting room after breakfast with the other men who'd been told to go there by his master. The small party consisted only of Harry himself, Master Snape, Josiah, Jolyon and Danyel.

"For Harry's benefit I will explain the composition of this group," Severus began. He'd noticed Harry's surprise when he'd called their names at breakfast time. "Only wizards can take part, which rules out Argus. George is now too old to join in either with the walking or the protective rites, and Harry is a very welcome replacement. Danyel is untrained, but as he is a wizard and possessed of his own power he can contribute as well as any of us.

"Now that all is explained, we shall begin. I trust you all have your bottles?"

Four heads nodded and Severus said, "Follow me."

The group headed out, passing through the dining area to the outer door. The rest of the Community were still gathered there and clapped as they passed by. Harry blushed, even though he had no idea what he was going to be doing later, the weight of his wizard bottle pressed against his thigh seemed suddenly important.

Miranda bustled up to Master Snape. "Your picnic lunch, Master," she said, handing over a basket.

Severus took it and with a quick spell shrank it and stowed it in his robes. "Thank you, Miranda," he said, smiling at the woman. She nodded happily.

Severus continued to instruct Harry as they left the building. "The autumn rites begin and end at the West Stone, where we will perform the bottle ceremony. We also walk the boundary of the Community, alongside the wards and speak an invocation at each of the stones. This strengthens the boundaries for the coming season."

And so they walked, first taking the path to the farmyard and beyond it to the West Stone. It was surrounded with a fence and looked much like the South Stone Harry was familiar with from his journeys to the village. Once they got close he saw there was a gateway which they passed through and stood in front of the large, recumbent granite stone. They stood facing west, the eastern face of the stone in front of them. At its base, there was a channel which led down into the earth, but it was too small to pass through. Harry wanted to ask what it was for, but Severus and the others had lined up in front of the stone, hands outstretched. Severus spoke:

"Guardian of the West, symbol of Autumn and the richness of harvest, we offer you our praise and humble thanks."

Harry joined in as he realised the others were repeating Severus' words. When they'd finished, Severus bowed low to the stone and the others copied him. Severus drew his cloak around him again and led them out of the enclosure.

Harry followed the group, wondering if that was all that was going to happen. Where did the bottle come in?

The air was cool, the wind lively, typical conditions for the equinox which was noted as the season for gales. Harry had mimicked his master by wearing his cloak and he was quite glad of it as the land got higher as they walked along the edge of the field that headed towards the foot of An Sgurr. Harry could feel the wards prickling just off to his left. The path they followed was not large, but it was distinct. Harry was also glad he was wearing his dragonhide boots, the ground was damp from the recent rains and the rocks, never far from the surface, threatened to turn an unwary ankle.

After a bit of tramping – Harry had no idea how long it had been – he glanced up and saw the peak in front of him looked much closer. They must be nearing the northern end of the Community's lands. The field came to an end to be succeeded by a scrubby grassed area where the brown sheep were grazing.

Jolyon saw Harry looking at the flock. "I'll bring 'em into the winter pasture next month. Let 'em roam while they can."

"Like us, Da'," Danyel said, grinning. "We're roaming today."

"I've not been up here," Harry admitted.

"No cause to, lad. There's nowt here but pasture and the North Stone. You'll see that four times a year, and that's surely enough."

"There it is," Josiah said, pointing to their right, and Harry got his first glimpse of the North Stone.

The stone was different from the two he'd seen before, although it was ringed by a fence and made of granite, this stone was darker and heavier. "It must have taken some moving to set it here," he said in wonderment.

"This stone was already here," Severus said, turning to face his followers. "It is the only one of our boundary stones that is original. I believe it was probably put here by Merlin, and I like to think it marks one of his own property boundaries, though of course I cannot prove that. The prophecy stone that is now in the Heritage centre was also one of his marker stones, but that was placed far to the east of our lands. It was known to Wizarding folk but had not been warded for centuries. It was a blow when a Muggle found it last century for I would have warded it myself. It marked the spot where Merlin spoke the prophecy of the Blessèd Boy."

The party lined up in front of the large North Stone. They were facing the mountain to the north, a potent symbol of the darkest of directions where the sun never travelled, when Master Snape spoke the dedication again:

"Guardian of the North, reminder of Winter and darkness, we offer you our reverence and awe."

Harry repeated Severus' words and the low bow which followed. For some reason he felt loath to leave this enclosure, the North Stone seemed to command their attention and he was unsurprised when Severus lingered in front of the dark monolith, seemingly deeply in thought.

Finally, Severus turned and they all followed him. They headed through the scrubby grassland towards greener pasture-land.

"This is the summer pasture for the sheep," Jolyon told Harry.

Danyel, as if reminded of Harry's presence when his father spoke to him, skipped up to him and grabbed Harry's hand, walking along beside him as if they were boys on their first day at school. They were heading south now and Harry could see the distant buildings of the Community beyond the fields and the beehives off to one side, looking like little pepper pots far in the distance. The path alongside the pasture was a bit easier to walk than the field edge they'd passed earlier; the sheep had nibbled it short over the summer season. Harry could feel the looming presence of the mountain behind him and he glanced back over his shoulder.

They made quick progress – Severus was leading them and he had long strides. It seemed there was a lot of ground to cover. They turned east and Harry could see the line of a dry-stone wall ahead of them, but no sign of the East Stone.

They clambered over the stone wall and found themselves trudging a path alongside a field again. The field edge curved gradually southward and Harry thought they must be near the East Stone, and thought he could see it a little way ahead. His stomach was feeling empty now – breakfast seemed hours ago, and probably was. He hoped Miranda had packed lots of food for the five of them.

Jolyon and Josiah were chatting intermittently about the season's crops and whether this was turning out to be a good year or merely an average one. Severus strode ahead in impressive silence. Harry trotted behind with Danyel. He quite liked the boy's company as he no longer felt like an extra to the party, but Danyel's hand, despite the cool temperature of the afternoon – surely it was afternoon by now – was rather hot and sweaty.

Harry was disappointed when he found that what he'd thought was the East Stone was another dry-stone wall. He clambered over with the others, laughing with Danyel as the boy jumped down with the exuberance of a spring lamb. That grey line ahead must be the stone's enclosure, then. Harry let Danyel take his hand again and walked on with renewed determination past yet another field.

By the time he realised the hoped-for stone was just another wall, his stomach was rumbling. "Is there really an East Stone?" he asked Josiah as he climbed it. When the man replied, he wished he'd asked Jolyon. Josiah had a deep, booming voice and seemingly no awareness that its volume was permanently set on high.

"Oh, there's an East Stone. It's the longest part of the walk from the North Stone that's making you wonder. A young lad like you should be able to do it without bother, though. Old George managed last year… nearly finished him off, mind."

Danyel giggled at that and Harry frowned back at him, letting the youth know his laughter was inappropriate this time.

Severus stopped and turned; he did not look pleased. "This is an obligation we fulfil for the whole Community. We are reinforcing the wards and invoking the spirits of the seasons and of the land. Even if the trail was twice as long we would walk it. Now, let us go on."

And they did, and Harry knew better than to ask 'are we there yet?' again.

Once out of the fields they passed through rough grassland. It wasn't the easiest to cross as the ground was rocky and uneven, and the land was descending all the time toward the coast of the island, but Harry now realised that the effort they were expending was part of the rite.

And then he saw it, and this time it was definitely the stone for the line of fence surrounding it was clear. Harry followed the others into the enclosure, trying to look devout. He didn't want his master to have reason to chide him again.

Severus repeated the invocation, this time saying: "Guardian of the East, promise of spring and new life, we offer you our praise and humble supplication."

They bowed reverently, but Severus did not dwell. He led them over to a patch of ground where he sat with his back to the fence, cloak drawn around his body. He pulled out the packet that was their lunch and resized it.

Harry sat thankfully, glad to be off his feet for a while and even happier that food was in the offing. Danyel and Jolyon did not seem to be tired at all, and Harry assumed it was their manual labour that made them so strong. Josiah was puffing a bit and rather redder in the face than usual. Severus was quiet, hardly speaking except to instruct his followers.

Harry had bread and butter and a huge chunk of cheese, followed by an apple and a slice of carrot cake. There was more available in the basket, and Harry ate until his stomach was packed full and he couldn't have managed another bite. Somehow he was sure he'd need it before they got back for dinner. They drank cider; Miranda had packed five small earthenware bottles. Harry had doubted it would be enough, but he soon found they were spelled to refill themselves. Harry began to feel warmer as the alcohol passed into his system, and a lot keener to walk on than he'd thought he would be.

Severus packed up once everyone indicated they'd had enough to eat and drink. Harry was rather sad to see that Severus made sure the cider bottles were packed away. Josiah looked upset about it, too.

"One more stone, then back for the rite," Severus said as they set out.

"I'm ready!" Danyel called out, seeming a little over-excited. Harry wondered if he'd had cider in his bottle. Although the cider hadn't been strong; Danyel was usually not allowed alcohol as it got him too excited, but maybe it was part of the rite. So Harry took Danyel's hand again and it seemed to settle him.

They continued south for a while but the path along the wards soon veered to the west. Harry could see the guest house in the distance and knew the South Stone lay just beyond it. It didn't look too far compared to the marathon walk from the North Stone. Most of the journey was through rough grassland again, but as they passed behind the guest house garden they were flanking the winter pasture once more. The South Stone lay just beyond the driveway.

Harry faced the stone, looking south. "Guardian of the South, reminder of summer and the triumph of the sun, we offer you our praise and humble thanks." They bowed low and retreated, walking on. All were aware they had bowed before all four stones now. Harry wondered what came next.

They passed the fish pond and Harry was reminded of the summer's heat, which had suddenly left the island plunging them into autumnal weather. He shivered at the thought of swimming there now, and knew it would be a long time until he could indulge next summer. As the pond ended, they approached Lightning's paddock.

The grey stallion called a greeting and all the horses' heads came up and they trotted over to watch the men walking past. Harry remembered watching Lightning 'perform' when he had visited with Professor Sprout's party. Was Lightning going to watch Harry this time?

They turned right along the top of the paddock and when they were at one of the barns found themselves by the West Stone once more. Severus led them into the enclosure. Harry's stomach fluttered with nerves. Something was going to happen, he just hoped he'd manage to do it, whatever it was, and prayed the rest of them wouldn't stare at him too much.

Severus took his wizard bottle from a pocket and stepped up to the stone. He knelt and unstoppered the bottle. "I strengthen the wards of autumn, the power of the West," he chanted as he poured the bottle's contents down the channel that led into the ground beneath the stone. Finally, Severus said, "Vacuus," and a wispy silver mist emerged from the bottle and followed the rest of the contents down the hole.

Severus rose and stepped back, beckoning Josiah forward.

When Danyel knelt in his turn, bottle poised, Jolyon leaned forward and prompted his invocation. It was short and Danyel said it correctly, albeit with a chuckle at the end. Jolyon performed the emptying charm on the bottle for him, then helped his son to his feet. Danyel, sensing his dad's approval, hugged the rugged farmer.

Now it was Harry's turn. Harry knelt confidently and performed it all easily and well. He'd been expecting something awful, and he was relieved that this male magic, this earth magic (for it must be that) was so easy and felt so comfortable.

They stayed a while, staring at the stone. Harry could almost feel their libations being accepted by the Earth. Then with a final bow Master Snape turned and led them out, back towards their home.

Danyel ran back to Harry, deserting his dad. "You had lots, Harry!" he said. Harry blushed, but none of the other men seemed to be taking much notice of the simple boy. "It feels good getting it, doesn't it?" Danyel added, smiling happily.

"Hush now, boy," Jolyon grumbled from behind them.

"It's all right, Mr Tadcaster," Harry said. Danyel didn't mean anything by it. To him masturbation must seem much the same as eating. A pleasant bodily function. Harry doubted the boy's emotions were involved. He wished his own weren't tied up in it quite so much. He looked at the dark figure leading them back to the community buildings, and sighed.

Vacuus = empty.

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Chapter 11: Sweetness And Fertility by Rakina

Chapter 11: Sweetness and Fertility

When they returned to the Community it was nearly time for the evening meal. Master Snape told them to go and take showers or baths, marking their return to the mundane world and the end of the rite. Harry was glad to do that, he thought his legs would probably ache tomorrow from the amount of walking he'd done.

At dinner, Richeldis stood and made an announcement to the Community. "On behalf of the rest of us I would like to thank you, Master Snape, Josiah, Jolyon, Danyel and Harry, for your efforts today strengthening our wards. With the winter to come, we are glad of the protection. Thank you." She bowed her head towards Master Snape, then to each of the party in turn, all of whom were seated on the opposite side of the table to her. By the time she acknowledged Harry he knew his face was flushed with embarrassed pleasure.

Richeldis sat down in her seat next to George. They were the oldest Community members and seemed to get along well together. She was telling the calligrapher that it was time to make sure the bees were in their winter clusters and she would check the hives tomorrow.

"Perhaps Harry would like to see this aspect of their care," Master Snape said. "He hasn't had chance to see your skills, Richeldis."

Richeldis looked up. "I'd like to show him, Master. Thank you."

Harry wondered why she was thanking Severus. Abigail saw his perplexed expression and whispered, "She's thanking him for releasing you from your work to help her."

Harry had been right, after he'd sat and eaten vast quantities of food to quieten his rumbling stomach; he began to notice the aches in his legs. As they rose to go about their evening activities, Harry soon decided he'd listen to his aching muscles and headed for his cell, after his usual acknowledgement to his master of a bow of the head.

Severus watched Harry go off to bed. He'd leave the boy alone tonight – Harry was obviously tired from the boundary walk, and if he was honest Severus had had enough today as well. The link with the earth took it out of him. It wasn't spectacular magic, but it was deep.

Harry didn't dream that night. Or if he did, it was of darkness, and warmth, and protection.

Harry was glad of his cloak again as he walked toward the beehives with Richeldis. Eigg was nearly always windy, the breeze from the sea was welcome in the heat of summer, but now it was autumn the chill held the threat of a sharper cold come winter.

The elderly witch might have been white-haired but she was still spry and led Harry along quickly enough for his aching legs. He didn't complain – how weak would that have been? – but he was glad when he reached the hives. There were twenty hives which looked like boxes raised off the ground on short legs. Richeldis walked over to the nearest one.

"Bees are not active over winter, Harry. They have to cluster together to keep their body temperatures high enough to survive. This far north the cluster group is quite large, about the size of a football. I will cast charms over them to help them make it through our winter. What you see here…" Richeldis lifted the top of one of the hives and Harry peered inside to see a dark mass of bees, "…is a much lower population than lives in here in the summer. In summer there may be 60,000 bees in this hive. Now there are perhaps 8,000. In spring, the queen will lay again and the numbers will grow until we have a working hive again as the flowers come into bloom. Without bees there would be no crops, it is as simple as that.

"These wonderful creatures not only pollinate our plants, they are kind enough to make surplus honey and beeswax, very useful raw materials indeed. During the winter when there is little to do out here I make soap and candles from the wax, some of which we sell. But first I have to bottle the honey crop."

Richeldis drew her wand and cast a spell on the huddled ball of bees. "Includo et foveo," she chanted with an elegant motion of her wand. The spell sounded warm and nurturing and Harry watched as a shimmering pink aura appeared around the bees. He wondered if he could see it only because Master Snape had shown him how.

"Mistress Machin, do you want me to cast that spell?"

"Please do not call me that," the woman said with a smile. "You are a member of the Community just as I am. My name is Richeldis, Harry; please use it."

Harry felt pleased that she saw him as an equal, although he didn't feel anything like it. She was much older and wiser than he was and very skilled. Harry knew he was still learning his craft, still at the beginning of that journey.

Richeldis continued: "No, Harry. The spell sounds easy, but the wand movement is extremely complex and the magic specific to beekeepers. You could learn to do it, but first you would have to work with the bees over a summer. What you can do while I'm casting over each hive is to tidy up and be ready to help me with the covers."

Harry nodded and watched as she dealt with each hive, making sure they were ready for the winter. Harry put the lid back on and piled four spelled bricks on top – one on each corner – to prevent the winter gales blowing the lid off, which would surely destroy the bees in the hive. As they worked Richeldis told Harry some of her bee lore. The insects were remarkable, they lived in a social unit and were capable of communicating with each other, and they were quick learners when it came to food sources. Harry had never appreciated how much mankind relied on bees until now.

"That's the last one, Harry," Richeldis said with satisfaction as Harry piled the bricks on top. "Shall we go and have a cup of tea with George? I usually do after a morning's work. We've just got time before lunch."

"That sounds good," Harry admitted.

George's eyes crinkled as he smiled at his visitors. He put his calligraphy tools down, got up with much stretching and a bit of groaning, and led them to his little room where he kept tea-making supplies. There were a couple of old armchairs in there which took up nearly all the room, but George pulled out a footstool and gestured to Harry to sit on it.

Harry listened to their chat. It was obvious they spent a lot of time together. There were silences too, but they were not uncomfortable. It was the sort of companionship that speaks of long acquaintance and happy familiarity. Harry smiled at their anecdotes and felt warm inside. He envied them – not their grey hairs or their rheumatism, but their comfortable relationship. Harry decided he'd like to be like that when he got older. Having someone you could depend on for company when things got a bit lonely, someone who understood you.

After lunch Severus took Harry to the teaching room again.

"Are you going to try another of the new plants in the Longevity potion?" he asked when they were ready to start work.

"Not today. I cannot spend all my research time on that project as it will have no commercial value. I have another in development which I intend to market soon, a Fertility potion. As you know, the birth rate among Wizarding families is not sufficient to sustain our population. Those who have chosen partners in the Muggle world have had more success, but for many reasons wizards and witches usually prefer to marry magical folk. Of course Mr Malfoy has his own very strong reasons to encourage that, but I will not go into the ethics of mixed marriages here. What I want to do is help those who have married magical partners to be as fertile as possible; most married for love after all. Young people socialise with their own kind when growing up and don't go into the Muggle world often, nor feel comfortable enough to be able to make strong relationships leading to a mixed marriage. They need help and I am trying to provide it.

"Whatever my motives were, in the past Mr Malfoy has sponsored my work and that has been a welcome addition to our funds. The potion is not Dark and although his organisation's aims have often made me uncomfortable, I had no real reason to refuse his help. However, as you noticed when he visited before, I have since refused his money. I wouldn't be surprised if he doesn't visit again about it. I expect he'll want to remain involved with this potion. He already has rights to some of the profits because of the help he's given.

"And now, just a few more tweaks and it will be ready."

"Master, how do you know it works? Surely there aren't Wizarding couples trying it out for you?"

Severus nodded. "Good thinking, Harry. I have had to test it on animals so far, but there is no reason that it won't work on people. At least, I can't see such a reason. Never say never in Potions research."

"So if you market it, how does that work? You might end up selling something that doesn't work."

"Indeed. First I submit samples to the Potions journals and people volunteer to test them. They should have no trouble finding volunteers for this. There are many couples desperate for a child of their own."

"Sir…" Harry hesitated, this was difficult. Severus stopped gathering ingredients and looked at him. "What exactly is Mr Malfoy's organisation?"

"It is called the Pureblood Alliance, Harry. And I know little more, but suspect much. But that is not your concern."

Harry, duly rebuked, concentrated on watching and helping his master.

Includo et foveo = to enclose and keep warm.

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Chapter 12: Demons Rarely Come Singly by Rakina

Chapter 12: Demons Rarely Come Singly

By November the Fertility potion was ready and Severus sent samples to the New Potions Monthly Review and the Journal of Potions Research. Harry saw how nervous his master was and realised that this was the result of several years work; the verdict of the testers would be critical.

Two days later, at breakfast time, they received another visit from Lucius Malfoy. The man walked into the dining area as if he owned the place and Harry had a sneaking suspicion that Malfoy thought he did because of his monetary support of the fledgling Community. It didn't help that he looked like an older version of his priggish son, either.

Severus stood up and greeted Malfoy, offering him a seat and some tea and scones.

"I have breakfasted at home, Severus," Malfoy replied, his sneer as dismissive of their simple fare as his son's had been last year. He presumptuously used Master Snape's first name in front of the Community members; Harry had not heard anyone else here do that and Harry himself only had permission to use it during their private sessions at bedtime. "I will go into the sitting room and await you there."

He stalked off to the private sitting room and Harry was amazed at the arrogance of such a man who would walk into their Community and tell its leader what to do. Harry could see that Severus was angry, but his master sat and continued eating his breakfast. He took longer than usual and Harry was sure he was deliberately making Malfoy wait.

As the others dispersed to their tasks, Severus lingered with Harry. "Go and continue your research with the cold cure potion you're working on. I'll be along once I've dealt with our visitor." Severus' voice was cold.

Harry rose and headed for the workroom alone, which always left him vulnerable to any comments Scylla might feel like making today.

As Severus entered the sitting room, Lucius rose from the chair he'd seated himself in, hand extended. "Severus, I believe congratulations are in order."

Severus didn't hurry to reply; rather he walked across and seated himself in the opposite chair, waiting for Lucius to sit again, without taking the man's hand.

"Ah." Malfoy sat down and continued speaking. "Well, I heard your Fertility potion is being tested. I am quite surprised you did not contact me first."

"An oversight, Lucius. You know how excited I get about my new potions. It's like sending your child off to school for the first time."

"Really? How would you know that, Severus? I believe you are something of a loss when it comes to the hope of enlarging the wizard population."

Severus winced. Malfoy knew he was homosexual, but that was an insulting way of referring to it. He knew how disastrous it would be to lose his temper and throw the aggravating man out, but he was close to doing just that. The best he could manage was silence.

Lucius looked expectantly at Severus, but when he got no reply, he continued: "However, if your potion works, you may redeem yourself by indirectly contributing to the health of our population. Your Community is now supporting itself financially… while your sales are healthy…" Severus caught the threat but schooled his face not to show it. "…and we are glad to have the money released to support other worthwhile causes. Yet you were glad of our contributions when you started the development of this potion. It was our understanding that you would supply us with the finished article so our members could test it for themselves."

"Indeed, I was going to contact you on this very matter. But you do realise that I am a very busy man. The running of the Community –"

"Should be delegated. You have an administrator, Mrs Jordan, I believe."

"There is only so much I can delegate, Lucius. You understand the principles this Community is founded on. Monasticism is a hierarchy; the majority of the decisions begin and end with me.

"That said," he continued, "I have three bottles of the potion that I can let you have. Does your group have many couples in need?"

"Three… that will do for now. I know of three couples our group would like to assist… that have already been approved. Now, how much and how often do they take the potion?"

Severus rose. "Follow me, Lucius. We will get the potions and detailed written instructions in my workroom." He swept ahead imperiously, not bothering to hold the door for Malfoy. He had no choice but to give out his spare samples to the man, but if that was the price for getting him off his back, he would have to pay it. He was glad he hadn't given in to the urge to chuck Malfoy off his lands – the man's threat about his sales had teeth.

Harry spent the whole day tweaking his custom potion. It was fun, but he was a little dismayed that Severus didn't speak to him. He could tell his master was angry about Malfoy's visit and didn't seem able to concentrate on teaching today. Instead, Severus immersed himself in feverish activity, at one point cutting his palm and adding his own blood to a cauldron, so Harry presumed he was working on the Longevity potion again.

Towards the end of the afternoon Severus spoke to Harry: "The vineyard care starts tomorrow. The witches tend to the vines most of the time, but the rest of us help sometimes. Pruning is something you can help with. Go with Scylla and the others tomorrow, do whatever they tell you."

"Yes, master." Harry wondered what Severus would be doing alone in the Potions rooms. Whatever it was, Harry didn't think Severus would be telling Lucius Malfoy about it.

Harry set out with the four witches – Scylla, Abigail, Lydia and Miranda – feeling very much the odd man out. "Why doesn't Josiah come with us?" he asked.

Lydia replied, "Josiah is an excellent vintner – well, you know that. But he's a bit … loud… for the vines. They respond better to a witch's care. You will be okay as long as you take care. And you're a quiet enough lad, Harry."

"And not yet mature," Scylla added spitefully. "He won't have the impact of a full-grown man," she said to Lydia as she saw the other witch was going to comment on that.

Lydia had to nod. "Well, that's true I suppose. Now, here we are, watch me, Harry."

Lydia stood by the first vine in the row and showed Harry how to prune it. "Cut back the side shoots to two buds. This has to be done before Christmas. Later, the vines would bleed sap, weakening the plant." Harry looked along the rows of vines, appreciating the scale of the task. "It is best done by hand; magic can upset the plants. They prefer a witch's touch, as I explained to you, but I'm sure you'll do all right. Off you go."

"Come with me, Harry," Scylla said, startling him. "You can help me." Scylla was the last witch he'd have expected to want his help.

Harry had long since realised that magic was involved in everything they did on Eigg, especially earth magic and fertility magic. He touched the plant with reverence. He could hear Miranda chanting a spell over the bush she'd just pruned. He recognised the spell as being similar to the one Richeldis had used on the bees, this one protected and nurtured the vines.

Harry worked quietly, aware that Scylla would look across at him from the other side of the vine from time to time.

"Let me see," she said, coming around to the other side to look at what Harry was doing. She was holding her pruning knife and Harry felt stupidly nervous. Scylla suddenly lunged and hacked at the central stem of the plant, she nearly severed it and it hung drunkenly to one side. "Foolish boy!" she shrieked. "You have butchered it!"

The other witches turned at her cry and came to look. "See what he's done! The boy has no patience for this work. I knew we should have kept it amongst ourselves. Perhaps Master Snape will see that now."

Harry's face showed his consternation. He couldn't believe what was happening. "I – I didn't do that. You did it."

"Do you hear this?" Scylla shrieked. "Trying to blame me for his clumsiness! I have worked on these vines every year since I came to Eigg, and this is your first day, you wretched creature. Which of us is more likely to tear a vine, do you think?"

Harry, looking at her with disbelief, must have looked guilty to the other three witches. Sadly, shaking her head, Lydia said, "You had better go back to the Community, Harry. I shall have to speak to Master Snape about you later."

Harry's arm dropped to his side. He handed his pruning knife back to Lydia and turned to walk away, back to the centre. Once there, he let himself in and headed for his cell, feeling numb. He didn't want to go to the Potions rooms, Severus was working alone there and Harry thought he'd planned that for today. He pulled off his cloak and sat on his bed, wondering how he could get out of this. Nobody had seen Scylla's action and now nobody would believe him.

Harry wasn't sure how long he sat there, but he came to himself in time for lunch. It would be childish and obviously guild-ridden behaviour to stay in his room, so he forced himself to head back to the dining area.

The witches were there and they went quiet when he entered. Master Snape was talking to Lydia, but she broke off when Harry came and took his seat next to his master.

"Harry, you have caused serious damage to a valuable plant," Severus said and there was disappointment in his voice.

Harry could feel the witches' eyes on him; he didn't even try to deny it. He could sense it would just get him into worse trouble.

"I'm sorry, master," was all he could say and be truthful.

"This is too grave to ignore; you will be punished. In deference to your status as a novice of the Community, I will punish you myself, in private. After you have eaten lunch, go to your cell and stay there."

"Yes, master." Harry was just relieved it wouldn't be public. He didn't want to feel Scylla's eyes on him as he submitted to his master's punishment. He ate a little soup, careful not to take more than he could stomach, but he wasn't feeling hungry at all. He could feel her watching him, and he was determined not to give her the satisfaction of seeing him unable to eat anything. When his bowl was empty, he rose, bowed deferentially to his master, and headed for his cell. As he closed the dining area door he heard the swell of voices talking freely again.

Severus was still angry. He was angry with a simmering, ongoing rage caused by Malfoy's visit. Now he was angry that Harry had damaged a vine so badly – whatever had the boy been thinking? It was totally unlike his apprentice to be so careless with a living thing, even if that thing was a plant. Perhaps Harry had resented being sent to work with the witches, but it was Severus' decision who did what task in the Community, and Harry had always accepted that before.

Severus walked towards Harry's cell; he was facing a task he'd prefer to avoid. Today, it seemed, was a day for facing his demons, and they rarely came singly.

He entered the cell without knocking. As Master of the Community he could go where he wanted, whenever he wanted. Harry had forfeited his right to courtesy.

Harry was sitting on the side of the bed, hands in his lap, head bowed, as if waiting for his fate. Severus felt his body react to Harry's humble pose and he cursed the turn of events.

"Take off your robes."

Without hesitating, Harry stood and pulled off his robes in one swift movement, determined to show Severus obedience and not provoke any more censure. He stood in his underpants, shivering slightly. It was cool in here, but Severus thought the shiver was a sign of nerves, not cold.

"Lie face down on the bed, arms above your head."

Harry scrambled onto his bed and assumed the position.

"Ligatio." Chains appeared out of nowhere, attached to the ring set in the wall above Harry's bed. Metal cuffs appeared around Harry's wrists. Severus took the chains and attached them to the cuffs.

"Your punishment will begin. This is to help you, Harry. You must learn how important the produce of our land is and the seriousness of damaging the stock. I am very disappointed in you."

"I – I do know how important it is, master," Harry said in a small voice.

Severus had brought the switch with him. A long, whippy piece of willow which he now held in his hand, feeling its balance, the smoothness of the wood, the excitement building at the thought of what was to come. He swallowed, trying to control the demon he hadn't wanted to let out, but that Harry had freed.

"You will count the strokes, Harry. For this infraction you will receive ten strokes. And I am letting you off lightly as it is your first offence."

"Yes, master. Thank you." Harry's voice was almost inaudible now. While he'd been waiting his mind had been replaying the punishment of Josiah Jordan that he'd witnessed last year. The vintner had punished himself, but Harry doubted he'd be able to do that to himself, nor, as a novice, would he be allowed to. He'd known when he came to Eigg that members had to accept punishment for their mistakes and Harry was determined to accept it without complaint. This first punishment from the hands of his master was a kind of rite of passage for Harry, a proof that he fully accepted his role as a novice of the Community. He didn't deserve it, hadn't committed the crime he was being whipped for, but in a strange way that was irrelevant to what he was doing right now. He wanted to prove himself to his master, to show him that Harry Potter was his loyal apprentice and novice of the Community whatever happened. He doubted Master Snape would be any less rigorous in applying punishment to his apprentice than he would to anyone else, so he tried to brace himself.

Severus raised his arm and brought the switch down. Thwack! It whistled through the air as it rushed downwards and struck the boy's back with a clean crack.

"One!" Harry yelled, loudly. He had jumped at the blow, finding that nothing he'd done had prepared him for the reality of it. "Oh…" he whimpered as he heard the swish of the cane through the air, soon followed by another cry and a shout of "Two!"

Severus could tell straight away that Harry knew nothing of punishment, just as he'd known nothing of pleasure. Such a virgin, his boy. So unknowing. Severus raised his arm again and as he moved his robe brushed over his erection. He was so hard.

"Three!" followed by that delightful whimper. Severus was trying to pull his strokes, he really was, but the boy's back was already showing bright weals. Severus tried to space them out, it would be kinder, but the blood sang in his ears as his heart thundered with excitement.

At the end, as Severus dealt the last blow, the boy's cries had become weaker, hopeless. "Ten." Severus took a deep breath and forced himself to step back. Harry's back was a criss-cross of red stripes. None had drawn blood, Severus had used his skill to space them and was pleased with himself. He doubted Harry understood the care he'd taken.

Severus could hear Harry crying softly, and his heart began to slow, he felt some calm returning, and rational thought. He took a deep breath and tucked the switch into his belt, reaching into his pocket for the salve he'd brought.

"Do you understand why you have been punished?"

"Yes, master." Harry sounded miserable.

"You will not do it again, then."

"No, master." The boy was still sniffling quietly.

"Now hold still while I salve you." Severus rubbed a cooling salve into the weals. The process was painful as the fingers rubbed the balm over sore and abused flesh, but as the cream sank in the hurt turned to comfort. When he'd finished the last stripe, Harry's back looked much better, though it would remain sore until it healed naturally. That was part of the punishment.

Severus stood, whispered the release spell, and left without another word.

Harry hurt more from the knowledge that his master was disappointed in him than from his sore back. He slipped his robe on and lay back on his stomach, his mind a whirl of unhappiness.

Later, Harry went to have dinner with the others. Everyone treated him normally; Harry had been punished and it was over. But Harry knew Scylla would be rejoicing in getting him in trouble with his master. He avoided looking at her, talking instead to Abigail throughout the meal.

After dinner he headed out for a walk. It was dark already, but he headed for the farmyard, sure of his way. The cool night air seemed to calm him and the nickered welcome of the horses as he approached their paddock cheered him up.

"Hello, Harry," Danyel's voice as he emerged from the owl barn made him jump.

"Hi, Danyel."

"You look sad. Did Master Snape hurt you?"

"Yes, he did," Harry admitted. There was no point in lying to Danyel; his master had hurt him because he was disappointed in Harry.

"It hurts when Da' punishes me," Danyel said simply, and came and wrapped his arms around Harry. Harry let himself lean into the embrace. "Don't be sad," Danyel said.

Ligatio = bondage.

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Chapter 13: The Innocent Game by Rakina

Chapter 13: The Innocent Game

The next morning, at breakfast, there was a minor incident when Danyel came in and sat in Abigail's place. Harry looked up in surprise when he felt the boy sitting next to him.

Danyel reached over and cuddled Harry. "It's all right, Harry," he said.

"What are you doing bothering Harry?" Jolyon said, getting to his feet and grabbing his son by the shoulders. "Come and sit in your usual place. Abigail will want her seat."

"I wanted to sit next to Harry. I want to make sure he's all right," Danyel protested.

Harry was going pink with embarrassment. He could feel Master Snape's frown and knew his master would be wondering what he'd said to Danyel. Thankfully, the other young man stood up and went with his father before things could get worse. Harry didn't want Danyel ending up being punished.

Severus didn't speak to him during breakfast, and Harry wasn't sure if that was because he was annoyed about Danyel or still annoyed with Harry for the pruning incident. The unfairness of it rankled, though it really wasn't Severus' fault any more than it was his own. Harry glanced across the table at Scylla and the woman was positively radiating smugness. No doubt Danyel's behaviour was making her even happier. Harry quickly concentrated on his plate. When he'd finished, as Severus was still eating, and chatting with the wretched Scylla, he helped Miranda.

Severus was feeling guilty. He knew exactly why. It wasn't because he'd done anything more than Harry deserved – the boy's behaviour had deserved punishment – it was because he'd enjoyed it so much. He'd got hard and had only retained control of the situation with difficulty. How he'd wanted to take Harry while the boy was chained to the bed, vulnerable, abused and totally subordinate. Even as he thought of it, his cock hardened again and he forced his eyes away from Harry and started to talk to Scylla. That would calm him down.

"Come on then, lad, we'll go and get the winter pasture ready for the sheep." Jolyon got to his feet and headed off to the exit. Danyel jumped up, but instead of following his father, he rushed across to Harry who was putting mugs away.

"Harry, I'll see you later," he said.

Harry turned to tell Danyel it was all right, he was okay, when the youth threw his arms around him and started to kiss him. Harry was surprised, not expecting this, and stood rooted to the floor. The soreness of his back made his eyes water and he fought not to show it.

Danyel's kiss was enthusiastic and completely unskilled, but Severus didn't take note of that. He reacted instantly to the bolt of pure rage that shot through him. He stood and raised his wand, shouting, "Get out, Danyel."

Harry saw his master's wand pointing straight at Danyel's back. He squirmed and managed to get his hands up and push the boy away. "Go on, Danyel," he said urgently.

Danyel looked confused and turned to see a wand pointing at him. Jolyon had halted in the doorway and turned back when he heard Severus' yell. Severus caught sight of him. "Jolyon, you will take your son and your things and go and live in the guest house for the next month. While you are there, I expect you to teach him the rudiments of civilised behaviour so that he can come back to live with the rest of us. I will not have him assaulting my apprentice." Severus' voice was deep and deadly. He lowered his wand but did not put it away.

"Yes, Master Snape. I will do that right away. I apologise for Danyel." Jolyon bent his head in submission. "Come, boy." He gestured to his son.

Harry gave Danyel a little push. "Go on, it'll be okay."

Danyel went, skirting Severus in as wide a circle as he could. His father took his arm and led him out.

"And you, Harry, go and start work. I will speak to you later."

Harry headed for the Potions rooms, thoroughly embarrassed. He didn't really understand why Danyel had kissed him like that. Perhaps the youth just thought he needed comforting. Harry was fairly sure the boy didn't understand that such kisses were not appropriate. He certainly hadn't encouraged Danyel, but he feared his master would assume he had.

The day's work was spent in an uncomfortable silence. Harry was miserable and wanted to tell his master he hadn't done anything wrong. But he bit his lip and waited until Severus spoke to him. Eventually, his master spoke as they were tidying up before dinner.

"What did you tell the boy?"

"Nothing, master. He asked if I was hurt, and I said I was sore. That's all."

Severus looked hard at Harry. He wanted to believe it. His mind had turned over scenes of Harry being comforted in Danyel's arms. He'd beaten the boy and then been cold towards him, had Harry immediately taken comfort where he could find it? Danyel was young, similar in age to Harry; they would naturally be drawn to each other. Could Severus have been wrong about Harry? First the damage, now this physical bond with the other boy.

"And that show of inappropriate closeness?"

"I don't know why he did that. Honestly, master. He has always liked me, held my hand. Last night he hugged me, but nothing more, I swear it."

"Last night?"

Severus' voice had gone dangerously quiet. Harry knew he had to be careful, but he needed to tell the truth. "I went out for a walk after dinner. I didn't want to join in with the group, I still felt ashamed. Danyel was in the owl barn and he saw me and asked if I was okay. That's all, master. He just hugged me and told me not to be sad."

Severus looked closely at Harry again. Harry was gazing at him, and his gaze was steady, his eyes spoke of truth. Warmed by the glance of the greenest of eyes… Severus wanted to believe him, wanted everything to be like it had before, when it was perfect. But perfection didn't really exist, did it?

Severus merely nodded. "We will do some more experimentation on the new plants tomorrow. Meanwhile, go and get ready for dinner." He whirled on his heel and headed off to his cell, needing to be alone.

At dinner, Jolyon and Danyel came in several minutes after the others. "Sorry we're a bit late. Bit of a walk from the guest house."

Scylla smirked and Harry wondered if the sight of other people's problems automatically cheered her up. He frowned at her as he took a portion of vegetable stew and a large hunk of bread, but that just made her smile wider. Jolyon made sure his son was seated and went over to be the evening's reader.

Harry couldn't help noticing that Danyel's eyes were red-rimmed; it made him feel guilty, though he couldn't have said why. He hadn't encouraged Danyel, had he? It seemed that accepting the boy's comfort and companionship last night had been a mistake.

Harry was jolted out of his sad thoughts by the arrival of Hedwig. He hurried to take the letter.

"Read that after dinner," his master said.

Harry tucked the scroll into his robe and continued eating his meal. When he'd finished, he said, "Please may I go and read this in my cell, master?"

Severus looked at him. "Very well. But come to the sitting room after you've done. I'll not have you sulking."

"Yes, master." Harry stood and made a polite bow as he left the table.

Dear Harry,

Great news! I asked Professor Sprout if we were coming next year (and we are!). But first she told me she'd had a letter from Master Snape, inviting us to come for Christmas, and she's accepted!

I can't wait. I'm really looking forward to seeing you.

We've been working on hybridisation of magical plants and we're trying to create a venomous tentacula that has innocuous venom but still works in potions. If we succeed I'll send you a cutting.

I help with the lessons, and even taught a first year class last week. Professor Sprout says they've never known me as a student and they'll accept me as a teacher. I was so nervous, but once I got them started on potting techniques I was fine. She called me Professor Longbottom!

I want you to tell me about those rites when I see you. They sound pretty interesting – nudge, nudge. I didn't ask Professor Sprout about the wizard bottle – you don't catch me that easily, Potter!

We're arriving on December 23rd and staying until after Boxing Day. See you then!

Neville.

The letter made Harry feel better and he headed off to the evening gathering with a smile.

Severus saw Harry enter and saw the boy's lightened mood. He was sure he knew what Harry's letter said. He'd written to his friend Pomona Sprout and asked her for Christmas, hoping she'd bring her own apprentice who was Harry's friend. By the look on Harry's face it looked like they'd accepted. Severus hadn't known how to cheer Harry up without admitting his punishment of Danyel was harsh. It wasn't a terrible punishment; the boy just needed a reminder of how to live in communal quarters. Severus hadn't expected Danyel to be so miserable; he wasn't alone, he had his father staying with him. Jolyon could be severe, though, and Danyel loved company and had been very happy since Harry joined the community. Severus supposed that was understandable, Harry was the only other young man anywhere near Danyel's age, and he was very kind and patient with him. But it was just that closeness that had made Severus lose control in a rush of jealousy.

As the weeks passed, Harry became more and more convinced that Danyel was suffering while living in the guest house. Every mealtime he arrived in the dining room in tears or having obviously been crying recently. It made Harry feel awful. Master Snape took no notice either of Danyel's or Harry's discomfiture. Jolyon just looked grim. At the same time Harry was suffering himself. Severus hadn't come to his cell since Harry's punishment. At first Harry told himself it was because Severus was letting his back heal, but it was healed now and still his master hadn't come.

For the first time since the incident, Harry spoke to Danyel as they helped clear the table. "It'll soon be over, Dan."

"I miss it so much. I want to be back with everyone. I like talking to you, Harry…"

Harry knew it was wrong, but he couldn't stop himself: "I'll come and see you, if you like."

Danyel's face lit up. "Would you do that? Really? I'll be there this evening on my own. Da's coming to the card game like he always does, and I'm left all alone."

Harry nodded. He could imagine how sad Danyel must be sitting alone in the guest house every evening. His master hadn't said nobody could visit; just that Danyel had to stay there for a month. Harry told himself he was doing nothing wrong, even though he knew he ought to mention the visit to his master and equally knew he wouldn't.

Severus was sitting in an armchair reading, the others were occupied in various pursuits. Jolyon was settled in the regular card-playing group.

"D'you want to try making a larger basket, Harry?" Argus asked. "You've got the hang of the flat ones."

"Oh… er, not tonight, Mr Filch. I've got to... er… take my book back and get a new one." Harry had been looking restless for a while. He stood up and snapped his book closed. "Is that all right, Mr Watson?"

George had been almost dozing, a magazine open on his lap. "Oh, right you are, Harry, you go along."

Harry headed for the door. Severus let him go, then after a few moments he, too, got up and left the communal sitting room. Harry was heading toward his cell, away from George's workroom and the library. Severus frowned and stood back in the doorway of the broom cupboard.

Two minutes later Harry returned. He was wearing his cloak and heading towards the outer door. Severus stood still; he knew he would not be seen if he didn't want to be. Harry was going out, and Severus had a good idea where. Severus' stomach lurched, heavy and hot with dread and rage. He let Harry go; five minutes later he followed, his dark cloak blending him into the darkness of the island after sunset, his mind reminding him that perfection just didn't exist, even here on Eigg.

Harry knocked on the Guest House door and it opened right away. Danyel's face broke into the most joyous grin and he beckoned Harry to come in.

"I'm so glad you came! Come and play Ludo with me, Harry. I can't play on my own."

Harry smiled and swept off his cloak, draping it over the sofa. There was no harm in this. He often played with Danyel in the evenings in the sitting room. He sat at the table where Danyel had the board and counters already set up.

Severus walked up the front path and slid around the side of the house to where a light shone from a downstairs window. The curtains were closed, but there was a crack of light where they didn't quite meet and Severus cast an Eavesdropping charm, leaned up and peered through, expecting something lurid…

"You huffed me!" Danyel wailed, as Harry's counter sent his back home.

"Well, you did it to me earlier."

"Yes, but… but…" Danyel suddenly started to giggle. "I did, didn't I? I got you first!"

They were playing Ludo. Severus frowned. Was this what the boys got up to together?

After twenty minutes of giggling and teasing, Harry let Danyel win. He usually did. It gave Danyel such pleasure, and Harry couldn't get competitive over a game of Ludo. Danyel danced around the room, waving his arms above his head.

"Shall we play again?" Danyel asked hopefully.

"No, thanks. I can't stay long. They might notice I've gone."

"Oh. You're not supposed to be here! Oh, what if Master Snape finds out – you'll get whipped again."

"I hope not. But I can't stay long. I don't think he'd be too happy."

"No, he wouldn't Harry. He'd whip you for sure."

Harry shifted on his chair. Severus had been so severe. He remembered the way the chains had kept him stretched out, vulnerable…

"P'raps you'd better go…"

Danyel sounded so downhearted. His moods changed like the weather, the clouds blotted out the sun at a moment's notice. "I'll come back tomorrow if you like," Harry offered. Anything to make Danyel feel better.

The door flew open. "I think not."

The boys looked up. Harry's face flushed red with guilty shame. His master stood framed in the doorway, a look of anger on his face far worse than when he'd been blamed for damaging the vine.

"Get up," Severus said to Harry. "Go back to the Community and your cell."

Danyel was crying openly. "Please, Master, please. Harry didn't do anything wrong."

Severus looked at the wretched boy. "Unlike you, Danyel, Harry knows he was going against my instructions – the spirit of them, if not the word. He did not ask for permission to visit because he knew I would not grant it. He knows what he has done."

Harry left the guest house. Severus moved aside to let him go. "I do not want to see you moping about the place any more, Danyel. You will not cry at mealtimes. If you upset Harry any more, you will not be allowed to come back."

Danyel let out a wail and Severus left, slamming the door. He stalked after his apprentice.

Harry was stretched out again. This was worse, for his master had told him to strip, and now he was spread out naked even without his underpants. He could hear Severus drawing out the switch and he trembled.

"You disappointed me before, Harry. Now I am very angry. It is obvious you put that boy's wishes above mine."

Harry sniffled into the pillow. It wasn't like that. He didn't…

"One!" he cried as the first blow struck. "Please master, I don't… Two!"

"Three! Oh-" Harry groaned because that had been heavier than the first two and they were coming faster than the last time he'd been punished. His words seemed to annoy his master more. But he had to explain, he didn't like Danyel in the way Severus thought, he just felt sorry for him. "Please, I don't like him better. I just feel- Four! Five!" Two quick strokes to shut him up, but he knew he couldn't let them quieten him. He had to tell his master. His master's face had been awful to look at. Fierce and full of hurt, and Harry had put that hurt there.

Severus could hear the boy; he could hear Harry's voice above the buzzing in his ears. He wondered briefly if the noise in his ears meant he would pass out, his rage felt almost painful as if his head might explode. This boy was his Harry, his boy, his apprentice. Only his… his arm swept down again.

"Six! Master, please, listen to me. It's you that matters – only you! Seven, oh fuck…" Harry wiped his cheeks against the pillow, furious that he was crying. "Please, how many – Eight!"

How many? Did he know? He couldn't stop, couldn't breathe, couldn't think right. His boy. Never would another take him, touch him…

"Nine! Ten! Eleven!" Harry cried out on the last stroke. The switch was moving down his body and that last one had crossed his buttocks. His soft arse cheeks quivered and turned pink straight away.

Severus looked at the site of that last stroke. The boy's flesh trembled so sweetly, a darkening line decorating that sweet arse with a mark making a perfect cross with his cleft. A cross… the symbol of suffering… for others. Severus shook his head to dismiss the ridiculous thought.

"Only you, master… only ever you," Harry said, his voice weaker and sounding defeated now. "Twelve," was said quietly. Twelve, thirteen, twenty… it wouldn't matter. His master hated him right now and Harry didn't know why. He loved his master, respected him, wanted to work for him, learn from him, be with him. But now Severus seemed to hate him, ever since Danyel had hugged him. "Please, master. Only you. Forever."

Severus' hand, upraised, trembled. Harry's words sunk into his consciousness and this time he seemed to hear them and understand them. The boy was telling him he wanted him. But Severus had seen him with Danyel!

And what did you see? A game of Ludo between two boys. A simple boy and Harry, who had felt sorry for his friend.

Severus lowered his arm and stalked out of the room without another word, suddenly more overcome than the punished boy.

Harry lay chained to the bed, his tear-wet pillow pressing against his cheek. He let his eyes drift closed.

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Chapter 14: Penance by Rakina

Chapter 14: Penance

Harry didn't know how long he laid there, arms stretched above his head, skin naked to the cooling evening air. He didn't know because he fell asleep. He was awakened by the sound of his cell door opening.

Severus walked in. "Expedio." His voice was soft, almost hesitant. Harry felt the chains disappear and he let his arms fall. They ached from being held in that uncomfortable, stretched position. Severus' hands began to rub salve into the stripes on his back.

"Please make sure you come to breakfast tomorrow, Harry," he said quietly but firmly.

"Of course, master," Harry said. His arms really hurt as the bloodflow returned to normal. He shifted his head away from the damp patch on the pillow.

Severus said no more for a while, carefully applying the salve. Harry felt wonderful when the salve had soaked into his wounds… almost as if they weren't there at all. He sighed with relief.

"This is a healing salve, Harry. You know that punishment stripes are usually left to heal naturally, although salve is applied to ensure there is no risk of infection or permanent damage." Severus' voice sounded subdued, even sad.

"Yes, master," Harry mumbled. He was beginning to feel sleepy… the pain was receding as his arms settled into a comfortable position; the massaging action of his master's fingers was banishing the tension from his muscles.

"I over-reacted, Harry. You were wrong to visit Danyel without asking me first. But I was wrong to react as severely as I did. So I am healing you."

Harry nodded sleepily. This was nice….

Severus let his hands linger over the weal on Harry's backside. The boy was beautiful. His tan had faded into a faint glow, but his skin was wonderful… Only you, master… only ever you.

Severus stood and pulled the covers up over Harry. "I apologise," he said stiffly, and left.

When all the Community members were sitting around the table eating breakfast, Severus said, "Please stay awhile before you go about your tasks. I have a punishment to give."

Harry felt ill. He'd had his punishment, Severus had said so. Surely his master hadn't changed his mind and was going to punish him in public now it wasn't his first time? Or was he going to punish Danyel? Harry shot a quick glance at the other boy, who was looking scared. Jolyon drew Danyel's attention back to his plate.

Harry darted a look at his master, dreading seeing that look of rage and hatred turned on him again. But Severus looked expressionless as if he was holding all his feelings hidden inside.

Harry didn't manage to eat much. He waited until everyone was ready, his stomach jumping around like a trapped animal. Abigail leaned close and whispered, "It's all right; I don't think you're in trouble, Harry. He'd punish you privately."

"Am I still a novice, then?"

"For your first year, yes." Abigail gave his hand a squeeze and Harry felt a bit better, but he was still wary of what was going to happen and who was getting punished this time.

When everyone had finished eating and they were all sitting looking expectantly at Master Snape, he rose. He stood behind his chair, placing his hands on its back, and spoke. "Last night I found Harry had gone to visit Danyel."

Harry blushed and felt everyone's eyes turned on him, but he looked steadily at his master. Severus did not look at him and his face was still calm.

"I punished him for not asking me first. He broke the spirit of Danyel's punishment; he knew I'd be unlikely to grant permission. He has been punished for that.

"Harry did wrong, but I did a greater wrong. I over-reacted when I found him with Danyel. I punished him very severely, far more than the infraction deserved. Harry's actions – though against my will – were carried out in a spirit of kindness and support for a Community member. My reactions, however, were a result of my jealousy."

There were gasps of surprise; people looked from Master Snape to Harry, from Harry to Danyel. Danyel was looking scared, Harry was looking amazed. Severus remained stone-faced, obviously controlling himself, though his hands gripped the chair back tightly.

"Harry is my apprentice. I am possessive of him and that is to be expected in normal circumstances. However, Danyel is a special case, as we all know. I apologise to you, Danyel, for my jealousy of your friendship with Harry. I apologise to you, Jolyon, for forgetting the allowances due to your son. I apologise to you, Harry, for my severity in punishing you beyond what was warranted, and in doubting your loyalty to me."

As he said each person's name, Severus looked at them and inclined his head towards them in humility. Jolyon nodded back appreciatively. Danyel just looked confused. Harry blushed brick-red.

"Whenever a Community member does something wrong that results in work or problems for other members, they are punished. When the Master of the Community does a wrong that impacts upon several members, his punishment must be more severe. You have the right to expect me not to make such mistakes. I am truly sorry for letting you down."

Severus stepped away from the table, no longer seeming to need his grip on the chair.

"Jolyon, you are a strong man, and you are one I have wronged. Please assist me with this."

Jolyon nodded grimly, then spoke quietly to Danyel before standing and striding to the kitchen range. He reached up and fetched the whip down.

Harry shivered. "No!"

Abigail put her hand on Harry's. "Let it be, Harry. He feels he must do this. It is important to him as head of the Community to be seen to be fair."

"But… it doesn't matter. He healed me."

"It isn't just you he wronged, Harry." Abigail's voice was sad, too.

Harry looked across the table. Scylla was sitting as stone-faced as Severus had been earlier. Harry had half-expected to see a look of triumph, but it seemed she wasn't scheming for Severus' public suffering and humiliation. It was Harry she wanted to see punished. Harry wondered, again, if Scylla wanted his master for herself.

Severus pulled his robes above his head in a swift, determined gesture. He dropped them over the chair back and turned, bracing his hands against the wall. His back showed the healed marks of previous punishments and Harry was surprised to see so many. Surely the Master didn't have to punish himself that often?

"Twenty four, Jolyon. Which is twice the number I inflicted on Harry. And put your back into it, man."

Jolyon grunted in affirmation. He rolled his sleeves up, took position, and it started.

Harry knew, instantly, that this was different from the switch. The leather of the whip seemed to cut, to be sharper than the polished willow wood. He knew that Severus' skin wouldn't stand twenty four strokes without damage. He let out a moan of sheer misery. Abigail took his hand and held it tight.

Jolyon was doing as he'd been bidden, and he was a strong man, a burly man. The strokes cracked onto Master Snape's flesh and the man's body jumped under the force of each blow. By the sixth stroke the blood was running down the man's back and tears were running down Harry's face. Danyel was starting to wail. Harry wanted to run down that end of the table and hug the boy, but that was what had started all this and he forced himself to sit still.

Miranda got up and went to Danyel, enfolding him in a motherly hug. The whipping continued and Severus began to cry out at each new blow, but he continued to stand and brace himself against the wall on shaking arms, proud and determined to show he did not need restraints and that he knew he'd earned this and would take it.

At the fifteenth blow he began to sway on his feet, his legs were losing their ability to hold him up.

"No more, Master," Jolyon said, lowering the whip. "You cannot stand for more."

"Please, no more," Harry cried. "You've already had more than me and the whip is cruel."

Severus shook his head, long, dark locks hanging over his face, hiding his expression. His voice wavered but he insisted: "Josiah, come and hold me up. Please."

"Master –" Josiah looked desperate to avoid this task.

"Please," Severus repeated. "I need to remember this."

Josiah rose, reluctance in every movement, but he would obey Master Snape. He took out his wand and spelled cuffs to hold the man's arms to the wall and said a Petrificus to ensure Snape stayed in place.

Jolyon resumed. He counted his strokes. Harry could tell he was holding back now, not putting his considerable strength into the whipping. Their master would never stand it.

By the time it ended, there were some very sick expressions at the table. Jolyon was shaking all over. He lowered the whip and spelled it clean of blood. Josiah released the Petrificus and the cuffs, catching the man as he sagged. Harry jumped up to help.

"Take him to his room," Harry said.

The men virtually dragged Severus to his cell. Harry pointed to the bed and they laid him down on his stomach. Lydia brought some healing potions from the shop and handed them to Harry. She squeezed the young man's hand, seeing his anguish. "It's important to him to live by his own rules, Harry. He recognised he did wrong and had to right it. He's a proud man, to do less would hurt him worse than the punishment."

Harry nodded, recognising the truth of her words and glad of her kindness. He took a deep breath and reached out to Severus. "I'll heal you, master."

"No." Severus' voice was raspy; he'd cried out loudly at the end. "Just clean it. Please, Harry."

Harry swallowed. Severus was so stubborn. "Very well, master." He hurried over to the washbasin and prepared cloths and a basin of warm water. Glancing back – the other men had left and Severus was lying with his face averted, waiting quietly – Harry tipped some of the healing potion into the warm water. In every person's opinion, save Severus' own, their master had suffered enough. Dilute, it wouldn't heal the wounds right away, but it would help.

Harry dipped a soft cloth into the liquid and began to clean the bloody mess of Severus' back. Severus' hands clenched, sometimes he flinched, but he made no noise. Harry could almost feel the tightness with which Severus clenched his jaw. When the flesh was cleaned he patted it dry with an absorbent cloth.

"I can put the ordinary salve on, can't I, master?"

Severus nodded. "It's on the washstand."

Harry went and got it and started salving the wounds as gently and thoroughly as he could. These new stripes would scar and join the myriad others already crossing his master's back. Harry had been naked with Severus, but he had never seen his back. He was shocked by it, but refrained from comment. Severus was drifting into sleep, despite his injuries, or perhaps because of the shock of them, and Harry thought sleep was the best thing for him now.

When he'd finished, Harry cleaned away the items he'd used. He checked Severus was asleep and headed out. He'd come back in a couple of hours and check on his master.

In the dining area Miranda was sitting at the table with a mug of coffee. She looked up at Harry, her eyes full of sadness.

"Come and have some coffee," she said.

"Has he done this often?" Harry asked as he sat and accepted the mug she gave him.

"No. He is a very private man. He is very strict with himself. I've never known him lose control like that. It's because of you, of course."

Harry looked up, startled. "I didn't want him to do that!"

"No, of course not. I didn't mean anything like that. No, I meant he lost control because of his feelings for you. It's plain as the nose on your face – he loves you."

Harry gasped. "He… loves me? No… he hasn't said, hasn't done… I mean…" he blushed and hated himself for it. Yes, they had done things together, but not recently. Yes, they worked closely, spent their free time together more often than not, but love? No, Miranda was being a soft, romantic woman. That was all.

"How else to explain this?" Miranda asked softly, smiling.

"He just did it to restore the rules, to enforce discipline," Harry said, knowing it sounded lame.

Miranda took pity on him and started talking about how busy many of the workers were, especially poor Josiah, who didn't know when he'd get a minute's rest from processing the vintage, and Richeldis, who was up to her armpits in beeswax and honey. Harry relaxed and chatted; he was in no hurry to go to the workrooms and Scylla, and he had to check on his master in an hour or so.

Eventually Harry gave in and spent the morning with Miranda, chatting and helping her prepare for the Christmas holiday and the winter solstice. The celebrations always cheered everyone up and Miranda's feasts provided them with fuel for the worst of the winter, still to come. Harry told her about the feasts at Hogwarts and the different dishes they'd had there and Miranda promised to serve some of them this year at their Christmas table.

Harry asked her what they did for presents, did they go shopping? Miranda said they could request days off the island if they wished, though many of the Community members made gifts for their fellows. Miranda made sweetmeats, Richeldis knitted or crocheted items and George made beautiful gift items in the scriptorium. Harry wasn't sure he had anything he could make for gifts, and decided to ask his master if he could go Christmas shopping.

Expedio = set free.

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Chapter 15: The Official Second Brewer by Rakina

Chapter 15: The Official Second Brewer

It seemed to take ages for Master Snape's back to heal. He refused to accept the healing salve that he'd used on Harry, and checked that Harry was only using plain ingredients to clean his wounds. Harry knew the potion he'd tipped into the initial cleansing water had helped and hated to think how long the healing would have taken without it, but Severus hadn't been lucid enough to notice at the time. After he had slept for a while the shock of the whipping had passed and he was far too sharp to outwit.

Severus was determined to remember the lesson and avoid over reacting in future because of his possessiveness.

Scylla glared harder than ever at Harry but was rebuked on more than one occasion when she complained verbally. She was then careful not to say anything about Master Snape's apprentice.

Between master and youth things were much easier, Severus taught Harry and seemed open and happy with him again. Harry felt almost as happy as he had when he'd first come to Eigg, during that heady summer when he'd spent his days exploring the Community and his evenings wrapped in his master's arms, sated. He was almost as happy… but not quite. For those wonderful evening encounters were not happening now. Since his own punishment his master hadn't come to his room. However much he told himself it was understandable – especially with Severus' back injury – Harry still felt sad about it. Not only did he miss the sex but he missed the closeness it created between them, the feelings of having a special, private relationship not shared by anyone else in the Community.

As they all sat around the dining table one evening, two things of note occurred.

"Harry, I need to deliver an order to Slug & Jiggers' tomorrow. I know you asked about Christmas shopping. It would be a good opportunity for you to see our main client's premises and then spend the rest of the day buying your gifts. Would you like to come with me?"

Harry's face had instantly cracked into a grin. Would he like to? "Yes please, master."

Miranda must have mentioned their talk to Master Snape. Harry smiled and nodded at the cook, who smiled back. Miranda was a good soul who loved to see the Community members happy. She reminded Harry of a mother hen fussing around her brood. If they were happy, then she was. Arguments and punishments distressed her, and Harry had noticed she left as soon as she could if anything like that happened; she'd cried openly at Master Snape's punishment.

"Master, I wonder if I could speak with you after dinner." Scylla sounded put out about something. It wasn't an unusual tone of voice for her – to Harry she sounded that way most of the time. She only seemed happy when she was brewing or when Harry was in trouble. Harry was happy to have disappointed her since the pruning incident, and he gave her a wide berth at all times, wary that she might try something similar.

Severus replied, "Of course, Scylla. I will meet you in the small sitting room."

Harry spent the rest of the meal seesawing between excitement about his London visit and wariness about what Scylla wanted. What she wanted was usually Harry's discomfiture.

"Master, I feel I need to speak openly with you. I have felt… troubled lately. I have been working very hard-"

"I appreciate that, Scylla."

"-and yet, I feel my position here is undermined by that boy."

"I take it you mean Harry rather than Danyel."

"Of course. You indulge him more than is usual for an apprentice."

"In what way?" Severus' voice had turned cold. He had tried to be careful not to indulge Harry, but he had responsibilities to the youth which he fully intended to fulfil.

"An apprentice should be doing the menial tasks, not telling a senior brewer what to do. Many times he comes in and directs me in my work. Often I end up tidying the work area, scrubbing the table –"

"Scylla, the area you are talking of is your brewing station, is it not?"

"It is not up to the boy to tell me what to do! He should be clearing away, cleaning up –"

"No. He should not. He is my apprentice, not your lackey. He is here to learn. The things you wish him to clean are your brewing equipment and nothing to do with our lessons. Harry does as I tell him. As for directing you, he only does that when I tell him to pass on a message to you. I do not believe you would complain about any other Community member passing messages to you. Do you not realise we do our own work first, then assist anyone who needs it?"

"He never assists me; that is the whole point."

"He is my apprentice. In the Potions room he has a special place. It has become an educational setting. He will not fulfil his Mastery scrubbing your workbench."

"He is insolent." Scylla's mouth was set in a firm line now. Failing with her first point, she was frankly lost to find anything else to set at Harry's door. She could hardly attack Master Snape for favouring the boy; he'd claim he was just being a proper Apprentice Master.

Severus let out an exasperated rush of air. "This is foolishness. Harry is a polite and hard-working member of this Community. You cannot have anything except – and I am loath to say this, but it must be said – jealousy to hold against him."

"If I am jealous – and I resent the implication – it is because you are favouring the boy above me. I am an experienced brewer; he is fresh out of school. If I am to continue working here, I will require a guarantee of my position as Second Brewer, above all members except you, Master. I do not feel that is too much to ask after my years of service to the Community."

"Your wish in regard to Harry is simplicity itself, because it is the truth. Harry is only a novice, he has not been here half a year yet, and his status is that of my apprentice."

"Master Snape, I am sorry, but in reality those words mean nothing. He is favoured; I see it in everything he does. Whereas I, who brought with me the backing of my organisation, whose contributions ensured this Community survived and did not break apart through starvation in those first difficult years, am treated no better than that idiot boy Danyel."

"Scylla," Severus' voice and face were harsh. "I do not know what you mean to achieve by this. Harry is treated the same as all members, except that he must answer to me in his work far more than any of the others, including you. He is a novice, but that merely gives him a little leeway while he learns how to live by our rules. Yes, you are a full Community member, but in that you are no more worthy than the young man you have the arrogance to call an 'idiot boy'. Danyel Tadcaster works hard for everyone else. While he may not have the skill to brew potions, he does what he can as well as he can. That is all any Community member is obliged to do, or can be expected to do, and he is as much a full Community member as you are."

Scylla's eyes had narrowed during this; it was obvious she didn't agree with a word of it. "If I may, I would like to request leave to visit some friends just after Christmas."

Severus had hoped this wouldn't happen so soon. He'd been aware of Scylla's jealousy, but had hoped they'd settle down after a time, that they might develop some camaraderie as fellow-brewers. Scylla's Pureblood views were normally not too obvious, but Harry had been the metaphorical finger prodding the ants' nest. She obviously believed her skills entitled her to special significance in the Community. There was only one member who ranked above the rest, and that was Severus himself as Master of the Community. He sighed. "Of course you may visit whoever you wish over the Christmas holidays, Scylla. I am only disappointed that you will not be spending the time with the Community you have lived with for the last eight years."

"I'm sorry too, Master," she said, and rose. "If you have no objection, I have a letter to write."

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Chapter 16: Christmas Shopping by Rakina

Chapter 16: Christmas Shopping.

The next morning was a Wednesday and the weather was cold and bright. Only two weeks until Christmas and a little less to the winter solstice. The Community had readied itself for the worst of the winter: the animals were penned in their fields, hay was stockpiled, the bees were safe in their hives, vines were pruned and fields tilled. The people were working feverishly to get ready for the celebrations. For the younger men there was the winter Boundary Rite to perform at the solstice, and Miranda was plying them with nourishing foods so they'd be able to 'pour their strength into protecting the Community'.

"We will go to Diagon Alley straight after breakfast, Harry," his master told him.

Harry made sure he ate well. He was excited and it made him even hungrier than usual. He ignored Scylla's cold demeanour as she sat opposite him.

"I'm going with Mum tomorrow, Harry," Abigail said. "I love Diagon Alley at Christmas."

Harry had never been before.

"Come. The order is ready; we'll Apparate from the storeroom."

Harry followed Severus out of the dining room, calling 'goodbye' to everyone. A chorus of cheery answers followed him out. His master led him to a storeroom, which was one of the rooms off the corridor to the potions workroom. Two large boxes stood there.

"We will Apparate these to Slug & Jiggers' warehouse, to the Goods Inward area. You need to keep hold of me for navigation this first time, so take hold of my robe."

Harry took the end of Severus' thick winter robe and stood next to him, holding the heavy box awkwardly. They Apparated together.

They arrived in a large, open area stacked with boxes, baskets and cages. Some of the ingredients were alive! Harry almost dropped his box when he saw a long, spindly, hair-covered spider's leg poke from between the slats of a box next to where he was standing.

"Put them over here, masters." A short, bandy-legged wizard was pointing to a space near where he was standing. "Your potions I assume, Master Snape. Been yelling for them for a couple of days now, Mistress Slug has."

Harry carried the box over and put it down next to his master's. He was glad to, it wasn't getting any lighter. Potions, when packed in quantity, weighed a ton.

"A gross in each box, is that right?"

"It is. Shall we wait while you check?"

"No, no. You get along. I know if you say it's a gross, then one hundred and forty four bottles is what's in there, not one more nor one less. One Staywell, one Fluid Joint, yes?" The wizard made a mark on his scroll.

"That was what was ordered."

"Then that's what it is – yes, I know. Any more to come before Christmas?"

"A box of Worry-wart and a small mixed order."

"Then I'll not wish you Happy Christmas yet, Master." With that the short man stumped off to chivvy a youth who was unpacking a box across the other side of the room. "Not that one, Ignatius! Mr Jigger is screaming for the assorted gift packs of dried fungi! Over there –"

Harry grinned at his master. "It looks like organised chaos in here."

Severus grinned back. "Christmas does that to shops, I believe. Thankfully, it's given us some good orders, so I'm not complaining. People stock up as if the shops are going to be closed for a month. Now, shall we go and join the rush?"

Harry wondered if Severus would want an assorted gift pack of fungi for Christmas, and decided he would probably find something better in the Alley. Although he had no idea what he could possibly buy for his master.

"The very place!" Severus said, after they'd walked past umpteen shops decked in gaudy splendour, which Severus had ignored and Harry had stared at wide-eyed, admiring the festive decorations. There were dancing fairy lights; evergreens glowing with berries and tinsel, charmed figures singing carols and wassailing songs and outside the animal emporium there was a row of golden bells that pealed different tunes.

Severus walked into the shop he'd indicated; it was called Curiosities. Harry followed, giggling when he walked through a shower of multi-coloured snowflakes which turned out to be the charmed front door. Oh, and the place was filled with curiosities! Harry didn't know where to start.

Floor to ceiling was covered with shelves, some deep, some shallow. And the shelves were packed with… everything! Harry stood by the first shelf he came to and stared.

"Take your time, Harry," Severus said, moving to the next shelf along. "We've got all day. Or until your hunger gets the better of you."

Harry grinned. His master knew him pretty well – he was already beginning to feel a bit hungry, and breakfast wasn't that long ago. Then he leaned closer to the shelf and picked up something that looked like a brass telescope and forgot about his stomach.

He peered into the eyepiece and saw… "Master, you're in this!"

Severus looked at Harry and smiled. "Am I? That's good to know."

"But why? I mean, it's showing you brewing, and you're in our workroom!"

"Harry, that's an Advisor."

Harry reluctantly took his eye from the end of the scope. "What does it do?"

"It shows the viewer what they should be concentrating on. Appropriately, it shows me working, presumably teaching you."

"Oh, that makes sense. Will you look, master?"

Severus looked reluctant. "It is a very personal thing, Harry. I do not think…"

"But you could do with advice, too, couldn't you?"

"Impertinent!" Severus chided, but on seeing Harry's disappointed face, he relented and took the Advisor, wondering at the way this boy could influence him and whether it was weakness to let him.

"What do you see, master?"

Severus put the scope back on the shelf without a word. What he'd seen made no sense at all, and wasn't something he ever expected to be part of his life.

"Are you all right, master?"

"Yes, of course. Get back to your shopping, Harry. I'll just go and have a word with the shopkeeper."

Harry watched his master go and find the wizard in charge of the shop and start talking to him, gesturing back to the shelves by the door. Somehow, he doubted his master would tell him what he'd seen. Did the Advisor show the future? Shaking his head, he went back to browsing for gifts and soon became engrossed in the shop's wares.

"Is that an ordinary Advisor?"

"All our products are superior types, sir. There's nothing ordinary about them."

Severus sighed. It was so easy to upset shopkeepers, he'd found. "Of course. I merely wanted to know if it were a classic Advisor."

"Well, its specification is top of the line, but it is an Advisor, sir. Why do you ask?"

"Because what it showed me made no sense."

"Well, it offers advice. That is its function. If it showed you something unexpected, nevertheless you should take note of its opinion. The charms it has been filled with are very efficient, our own special choice."

"Yes, yes, I understand. I assure you, as a Potions Master, that I understand your pride in your work. I merely found this… perplexing."

"Perhaps you should consider buying it, sir? Maybe you need to consult it regularly."

"Hm." Severus was tempted, there were times he wished he had someone to advise him, but he was naturally wary about accepting the opinion of charmed instruments. He gave up and returned to the shelves, watching Harry's delight at the varied goods and finding it also made him feel good. He firmly pushed the opinion of the Advisor about the focus of his life to the back of his mind.

Harry chose several gadgets for his fellow community members: a charmed timer for Miranda (he knew she cast timing charms but this would do the work for her if she just spoke her wishes); self-warming socks for Jolyon, Danyel and Argus to keep their feet warm while they fed the sheep and horses; a Conditioning Comb for Abigail; Anti-dropping Knitting Needles for Richeldis, charmed never to let a stitch drop out of place (she probably didn't need them, but they seemed like a fun idea); and a pair of Communicating Journals, one of which he'd give to Neville, the other he'd keep. It would turn Hedwig's life on Eigg into one of honourable retirement as he rarely corresponded with anyone else. On the way to the counter Harry picked up the Advisor, making sure Severus wasn't watching. He ended up handing over 68 Galleons to the shopkeeper.

"I'm ready, master." Harry had walked up to Severus who was now browsing a selection of books. Harry was a little surprised to see books in here along with all the weird and wonderful items on the other shelves but when Severus snorted at the one he was looking at Harry realised it must be a joke book of some sort.

Severus pushed the book back onto the shelf and turned to face Harry, obscuring his view of the titles. "Have you paid?"

"Yes, master. I wondered if you were ready."

"I am. Have you got everything you need?"

"Not quite, master. I need to visit Honeydukes. For the people I don't know so well, I thought I'd just buy chocolates, and I'll give Professor Sprout a pot of healing salve, if I may; her hands get rough treatment from some of the magical plants."

"We'll go to Honeydukes, then get some lunch in the Leaky Cauldron if you're hungry," Severus said, knowing full well Harry would be starving by now, and smiling at Harry's enthusiastic response.

Severus had decided not to buy the Advisor, but he had seriously considered it. But he would ponder its advice and make sense of it – there had to be sense there. He knew Curiosities of old, it was an excellent shop and he'd always found its products reliable.

"Severus Snape."

They turned at the voice behind them and saw the man who'd called out emerging from Knockturn Alley.

"Lucius. Fancy seeing you here."

"I rarely see you these days, Severus, I presume you're still busy?"

"Indeed."

"And you have a companion today – your handsome young apprentice."

Harry felt a shiver run down his spine at these words and seeing the sly smile on Malfoy's face.

Severus said nothing, hearing nothing that needed a reply.

"My son has told me such a lot about you, Mr Potter," Lucius said, extending his hand to shake Harry's.

Harry had his hands full with his purchases, but managed to rearrange them well enough to stick out his fingers, which Malfoy briefly brushed with his elegantly-gloved hand. Harry was relieved he was touching leather and not the man's skin, because he'd been able to avoid shuddering. Malfoy had a powerful presence and it was definitely not a comfortable one.

"I was a little disappointed you did not take Scylla as your trainee, Severus. An impeccable witch, from one of the best families."

"I offered Harry an apprenticeship because of his aptitude and enthusiasm, Lucius. A Master chooses his student for many reasons."

"Yes. And he is very pretty."

"Which is completely irrelevant," Severus growled, his voice revealing an edge of anger now. Harry was surprised to hear it; Severus usually controlled his emotions very well around Malfoy. "If I had wanted him only as a pretty boy I need not have offered him a studentship."

Malfoy glared right back, pale eyes glittering. "I understand Scylla has become discouraged since the boy arrived. It is understandable; she has worked with you for years and produced excellent results."

"Scylla is a competent brewer. But she is a follower of recipes, rather than a creator. The two things are very different. I am teaching Harry my own skills. That is why he is my apprentice and not Scylla Darke."

Lucius turned his gaze back to Harry, who stood straight and controlled the urge to step back, looking right back at him. Harry was Severus' choice and there was nothing Malfoy could do about it. It was annoying that the man thought he had any say in Harry's master's affairs.

"Well, Merry Christmas to you both," Malfoy said, his voice sounding even colder than the season. "I'm sure I'll visit you in the new year. Give Scylla my regards." With a nod, he stalked off towards the Apparition point.

Harry let out a whoosh of breath. "He gives me the creeps."

Severus frowned after Malfoy's retreating figure. "He is a creep, but one we have to deal with. You did well, Harry."

In the sweet-smelling interior of Honeydukes Harry soon forgot the awkwardness of the encounter with Malfoy. He bought more than he'd expected, including a box of rose-scented Turkish delight which reminded him of his birthday cake. He'd give it to Severus, who'd enjoyed several slices of the cake.

But the best part of the day for Harry was lunch in The Leaky Cauldron. Harry was always hungry and even Severus confessed he was ready for lunch. They ordered spiced cider to drink and peered at the menu board offering the 'traditional meal of the month': Bedfordshire Clanger.

"What's a clanger?"

"I've no idea," Severus said, frowning at the chalkboard. "Tom, what on Earth are you selling as food these days?"

"It's a traditional Muggle recipe, sir. I'm sure you've heard that you shouldn't 'drop a clanger'."

"I always thought that was something to do with bells."

"No, no, bless you. A clanger is a meal in itself. It's a suet pudding, served wrapped in muslin. It's shaped like a long pasty and it has a suet bridge along the middle. One end has beef, onions and a nice rich gravy in it. The other side of the suet barrier is jam, like a jam roly-poly. And a damned good idea if you're working, you just take your wrapped clanger with you. Warm it up with a quick spell at lunchtime and that's your whole meal in one easy package. Course, if you drop it, you get a lovely jammy, meaty mess."

Harry laughed. "You're making this up!"

Tom winked. "But I ain't. This was the staple food of the farm labourers in the county of Bedfordshire. Brussels sprout pickers, the lot of 'em! Warming, a bit heavy perhaps, but a great dish for an outdoor worker in the cold months. Just be careful not to drop your clanger. Are you game to try one?"

Intrigued, they did. When it arrived at their table, wrapped in muslin, Harry looked bemused. "I've never eaten anything that looks like clothing."

Severus peered at the cloth-wrapped parcel on his own plate. "I presume we spell the muslin off. Expositus."

The cloth unwrapped itself and folded back, leaving the pudding sitting on an elaborately folded centrepiece. Severus smiled.

Harry did the same, but he was still frowning once his pudding was exposed. "Um, Severus–" An eyebrow raised and he took it as a sign to continue. "Which end's the meat?"

Now Severus was frowning at his own clanger. It looked the same all over, crusty suet just begging to be breached. "The easiest way is to try it," he said, and cut one end off. He'd chosen right; a delicious, thick gravy oozed out and the smell made Harry's stomach growl.

Harry attacked his own clanger, but he wasn't so lucky – hot apricot jam emerged. "Damn!" he said, and started again at the other end of the plate.

The spicy cider washed the pudding down nicely and by the time they'd finished, neither felt very lively. "I'm stuffed," Harry admitted.

"I must admit I've eaten more than I normally do at lunchtime, or any other time for that matter. I don't think Miranda should serve this. We'd all fall asleep. Though it might come in handy for the Boundary Rites picnic," he added thoughtfully.

"Shall we go home?" Harry asked with a grin. It felt wonderful to say 'home' and mean Eigg.

Expositus = exposed, open.

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Chapter 17: The Wards Of Winter by Rakina

Chapter 17: The Wards of Winter

While the whole community was so busy, the time flew and the winter solstice was upon them. Once again the five younger wizards gathered in the sitting room ready to start out on the boundary rites. They'd eaten breakfast early so they could start out as soon as daylight dawned. It was the shortest day of the year and they had to make use of every minute of daylight. This time they were all swathed in heavy winter clothing. Woollen trousers, waterproof boots, warm underclothes and thick winter cloaks with hoods. Harry felt too hot as they waited for Severus to join them, but imagined he'd be glad of the warmth later.

On their way out, Miranda again provided a picnic box. "Just what you asked for, Master," she told Severus, as he shrank it and tucked it into one of the many pockets in his cloak.

Severus thanked her and the men headed for the back door of the kitchen which led out towards the summer meadows and the beehives. Harry felt less embarrassed as he walked through to the applause of the ones staying behind, he thought they'd probably earn it this time.

The wind buffeted them as soon as they stepped out of the building. Each man reflexively pulled his cloak tighter and lowered his head. Severus led them north, towards the start of the route around the boundary; in winter they started and finished at the North Stone. They passed the beehive enclosure to their right and followed the track between the fields and the summer pastures. At the field's edge Harry looked up into the winter wind and saw the fenced area in front that showed where the stone lay. He trudged on determinedly uphill; Harry was glad to duck his head down again and watch his feet, for the wind in their faces was cruelly cold.

They entered the stone's enclosure and stood lined up facing north. Under the winter sky the dark stone looked even darker than Harry remembered it and he could feel its power and presence. It felt… expectant. Severus pulled his hood down and his long, black hair whipped back from his face in the oncoming wind from the north. The others did the same and Harry found his head suddenly surrounded by the bitter cold.

Severus raised his hands: "Guardian of the North, reminder of winter and darkness, we offer you our reverence and awe."

Severus bowed low and the other men repeated the words and the gesture. The wind howled and yet Harry could feel something more. He glanced at Severus who had stilled, staring at the stone. As the moments passed he heard Jolyon shuffle his feet. Harry looked at the farmer and caught his glance; Jolyon appeared as mystified as Harry about Severus' hesitation.

Harry moved closer and put his gloved hand on Severus' arm. It seemed to jolt Master Snape from his reverie, and the man nodded and led them out of the enclosure, on towards the East Stone. Harry felt weird, as if the North Stone didn't want them to go… as if it wanted its offering. Harry's bottle was tucked inside his robe pocket. It was full; since Severus had failed to visit so often Harry had found he'd used the bottle a lot.

They set out onto the longest part of the boundary walk. Harry thought that was good, they'd get the worst over with while they had plenty of energy. The summer sheep pasture lay cold and windswept before them; the remaining grass was not growing, waiting like the rest of nature for the spring which was a whole season away. Now they were turned towards the east and the wind was buffeting their sides, trying to make them lose their footing on the rugged path. Despite the wind's roughness, Harry could still feel the ever-present prickle of the magical wards that kept them safe from prying eyes, kept them a hidden part of the magical world. But that protection had to be reinforced regularly and the cardinal points of the year – the equinoxes and solstices – were the most powerful times to do it.

As they climbed over the dry-stone wall into the fields Harry could feel how cold the stones were even through his warm, knitted gloves. "It's so cold," he said to Jolyon who was climbing over next to him.

"Ah, that it is, young Harry. But there's worse to come afore the spring."

They crossed two more dry-stone walls and then the rough grazing and the rocky areas too rough to be cultivated as fields. Harry knew how far the East Stone was and so this part of the journey didn't bother him as much as it had in September. He reflected that the boundary walk mirrored the year perfectly – this long distance reminded him of the longing for spring as the seemingly endless winter lingered this far north. And then there it was – the East Stone.

After the invocation at the stone they didn't linger. Everyone was feeling the cold by now and it was better to keep moving – it kept the blood flowing and the heat in your body. As before, Severus did not speak but concentrated on leading them and saying the invocations. He seemed very serious, very wrapped up in the magic he was helping to weave. Harry looked up and saw the shape of the guest house ahead of them, and that meant the South Stone, and then hopefully they'd eat.

They performed the invocation and everyone seemed fervent in wishing: "Guardian of the South, reminder of summer and the triumph of the sun, we offer you our praise and humble thanks."

"We will go into the guest house and eat our lunch there. It will give us the chance to warm up a bit," Severus instructed.

Harry smiled at Danyel, who'd let out a whoop of joy at that.

Inside, sitting around the dining table with magically-refilling flasks of tea, they watched as Severus resized five small items that looked like wads of cotton wool. Harry thought he knew what they were but the others looked confused.

"Clangers!"

Severus smiled. "Just so. Miranda said they were ideal for our winter rites."

The puddings were hot, spelled by the Community's cook to be ready to eat when they were resized. Harry was so hungry he didn't think he'd mind which end he started and purely by luck started munching on the savoury end. Seeing him attacking the food with gusto, Danyel bit into his.

"It's a roly-poly!"

Harry laughed. "You're eating the jam end, Danyel. Turn it round and eat the meaty part first."

Everyone got sorted out and began eating seriously. By the time the meat part had gone and they had eaten the jam end, everyone was feeling very warm inside.

"That's a serious pudding, that is," Josiah said, belching with satisfaction. "I haven't been so full in a good while. Excellent stuff for this job. Where did you find such a pudding, Master?"

Severus told them about the speciality they'd tried in The Leaky Cauldron.

"Bedfordshire, eh? Down south somewhere, isn't it?" Jolyon asked.

"It's near as far south as London, Jolyon," Josiah said. "My wife's second cousin lives down there and we went to her wedding. Flat as a board the land is around there – but then so was Melinda's chest. Good earth for growing brussels and spuds, though."

Danyel giggled about the witch's flat chest, and Harry doubted Josiah would have said such a thing in front of his wife. Lydia would have hexed him.

Harry felt his master's eyes on him as they sat talking. Although Severus said little, he seemed content listening to the others' chat. But he kept looking at Harry and Harry felt the heat in those eyes. He looked at his master, who didn't turn his gaze away this time. Harry felt warm and tingly inside and wondered if he could hope for a night time visit soon. He hoped so; he really didn't understand why Severus hadn't come to him lately.

Severus stood up. "Onward. To the West Stone. We have already done the major part of the boundary, but we want to get back before dark."

By the time they approached the North Stone again, Harry was tired and feeling chilled. His cheeks felt numb from the constant buffeting of cold air that you couldn't seem to get away from. The stone looked even darker in the failing light and the coldness of the air seemed to underline its properties – the stone needed them, he could feel it. Harry stood in line with the others and they seemed quieter than usual, as still as a row of stone statues.

When Severus spoke his invocation the sound of a human voice seemed strange in this place: "I strengthen the wards of winter, the power of the North."

Severus knelt to empty his bottle into the gully below the stone. Severus stayed kneeling after the bottle must have been long empty and the spell spoken, seemingly focussing on the stone with his head bowed. Harry allowed the moments of reverence, but when time seemed to drag and the position and stillness of his master began to seem odd, he stepped forward next in line and touched Severus' shoulder with his hand. Again, Severus seemed to jolt back to reality and got up to make way for Harry to do his invocation.

As they headed back towards the community building with the wind buffeting their backs, seeming to urge them on, Harry wondered at the power of the North Stone. Severus had seemed affected by it at the autumn rites as well and this time it was as if the stone held him in thrall. Perhaps it was because this one stone was ancient, original to the site and linked to Merlin. Harry felt that the famous old wizard's presence was almost palpable here on Eigg; it was as if he had never left.

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Chapter 18: Christmas On Eigg by Rakina

Chapter 18: Christmas on Eigg

"Neville!" Harry ran forward and embraced his friend. "You've lost weight! Are you working very hard?"

Neville blushed happily and smiled. "I'm too busy to worry about food most of the time," he admitted. "But it's fascinating, Harry, and I've brought you that cutting I was talking about. It's not the finished article, but it's the best we've raised so far."

Professor Sprout was being greeted by Severus. They had arrived in time for lunch, Apparating straight to the guest house from Hogwarts. Severus and Harry had walked down to meet them.

"You can stay here or at the Community, Pomona, whichever suits you best," Severus was telling her.

"Oh, I'd rather be with the rest of you, Severus. What do you think, Neville?"

"Yes, I'd rather be with Harry," Neville said, smiling shyly.

Harry wondered if he was imagining things, because he thought Severus was giving Neville a suspicious look. He didn't want a repeat of the 'Danyel incident', as he thought of it.

Together, they walked up to the Community. It was a bright day, but very cold. Professor Sprout was easily persuaded to leave the herb garden for later.

"There's not much to see this time of year. You can go with Argus after lunch."

"Will you come, Harry?" Neville asked.

"Harry has to help me shut the Potions workrooms ready for Christmas. He will be free after dinner," Severus said.

Harry shrugged at Neville, who was looking disappointed. "We'll catch up at dinner time, Nev. You'll have settled in by then."

"We'll find somewhere suitable to plant that tentacular," Professor Sprout told Neville, which seemed to perk him up a bit.

Harry watched Severus as he showed the visitors to their cells. There was no doubt about it; his master was feeling possessive again. It made Harry feel all warm and tingly inside. Severus didn't want anyone else getting close to Harry. If only he would come and give Harry some closeness… and soon.

At dinner, the guests sat in Abigail and George's seats and everyone else moved down one space. This left Master Snape at the head of the table, with Harry and Scylla flanking him, then Professor Sprout and Neville next to them. Harry chatted happily with his friend, seated next to him at last. With the Potions rooms closed until after Boxing Day, and tomorrow being Christmas Eve, Harry was looking forward to his first holiday since the summer. The atmosphere at the table was warm and happy; even Scylla managed to smile at Professor Sprout's anecdotes about Christmas at Hogwarts. Harry didn't think he'd seen Scylla so relaxed since he'd arrived to join the Community.

As coffee was served and Miranda banished everyone's empty plates to the sink, Abigail spoke up.

"Master Snape, I have something I wish to tell the Community. It may… change… my position as a member of our group. I cannot keep it from you all any longer."

Harry looked up, alarmed. Abigail was his friend; he didn't want her to leave.

"I… have formed an attachment…" Abigail's face screwed up, as if this was wrong, and she started again. "I have become close to a man, one of the men from Galmisdale. He is a Muggle. He… wants us to… that is, he is serious about me."

Abigail had gone pink. She looked down at the table top as if afraid of looking at anyone at all. Both her parents were quiet, not looking thunderstruck like most of the others, so Harry thought Abigail had told them what she was going to announce. Harry had suspected it from Abigail's frequent trips to the village and her happiness in James' company, so he just looked concerned for Abigail's future. He didn't want her to have to leave over this. Surely that wouldn't happen?

Master Snape was looking intently at Abigail. "This will need some thought, Abigail," he said. "Come and speak to me in the sitting room."

Severus rose, took his coffee mug, and led her into the small, private sitting room. Harry watched them go, his face showing his worry.

"Well, she'll have to leave," Scylla said.

"That would be a shame," Professor Sprout said. "She's good with the herb garden."

"It doesn't have to come to that," George said firmly. "There are ways to work round it."

"When she's with a Muggle? This Community exists outside of the Muggle world. I warned Master Snape of this when he wanted to trade with the locals."

"Surely there has to be some cover, Scylla," Professor Sprout said. "Some reason to explain the comings and goings around this site. The Muggles would notice on such a small island. I think Severus has set this place up ideally."

"I thought so too, Pomona," Scylla said. "But once Muggles threaten to become part of the Community, its whole purpose is destroyed."

"That's not going to happen," Josiah boomed from further down the table. "She's not asking to live with him here. My daughter's just telling you she's seeing him. She's an honest girl and shouldn't be punished for it."

"Well, we'll see what our Master says," Scylla said. "It's up to him, not you or I."

Josiah had no answer to that and went back to talking quietly with his wife. Lydia was looking concerned. The whole family were a core part of the Community and Harry didn't know how it could run successfully without them. Nor did he want to see them leave. Josiah's wine cellar was the man's pride and joy.

The subdued group retired to the sitting room, but once the card game got underway, with Pomona joining in, the situation returned to something like normal.

"I've brought a jigsaw, if you want to help me," Neville said to Harry.

Danyel was hanging around. Jolyon had kept him out of Harry and Neville's way so far.

"Would you like to help us?" Neville asked, seeing the boy's eyes light up at the word 'jigsaw'.

"Can I, Da'?"

"If the lads want you to, Danyel. You're sure he won't be in your way? I thought you two might want to catch up…"

"It's fine, Mr Tadcaster," Neville said. "The more the merrier. This jigsaw is a tricky thing."

And so it was. The three young men sat around a table and emptied the pieces out of a red, velvet pouch. The pieces immediately turned themselves face-down. Harry had never seen a Wizarding jigsaw before. He'd inherited one or two of his cousin Dudley's old puzzles, which by the time he got them had several pieces missing, but he'd enjoyed them. It was going to be difficult if the pieces resisted your efforts.

"Is there a picture of what it will be?" Danyel asked.

"There's a charm," Neville said. "Depicto."

An image shimmered above the table-top. It showed a blue sea with a dolphin jumping above the waves. The dolphin was grey, the sky blue and white.

"Merlin, that's difficult," Harry breathed. "All shades of blue and grey."

"There's charms you can use," Danyel enthused. "D'you know them, Neville?"

Neville smiled. "Yes. Labra."

Some of the pieces shuffled away from the pile and formed a small heap to one side. "Those are the edging pieces. Let's see if we can make the frame."

They bowed to their task and everything else got forgotten for a while.

Later, Master Snape returned with Abigail, both of them were looking quiet but not upset. Harry smiled as his master joined the company. Severus stood in the centre of the room and addressed his Community.

"I have spoken at length with Abigail. The situation as it stands is that she is in a relationship with a Muggle fisherman from the village. She is entitled to have a relationship with whoever she likes. The immediate issue is one of secrecy. This Community has been hidden from the Muggle world and I do not want it revealed. Abigail has agreed that she will not reveal it to her boyfriend unless and until they are married. Anything less is not acceptable. The young man thinks she lives at the guest house, as caretaker. There is no need for him to know more than that."

Everyone looked at Abigail. "Are you likely to marry him, dear?" Richeldis asked kindly.

"I… I don't know yet," Abigail replied. "I think so, but it has so many problems when it's a witch marrying a Muggle. I know that." She looked rather defiantly around the room. "But I know I love him, and I can't just turn that off. I want to do this in the best way I can, to lose as little as I can." Her eyes filled with tears.

"There is no need to lose anything right now," Master Snape said firmly. "Decisions can be made later. For now, you are dating. If your young man wishes to meet your family he can do so at the guest house."

Abigail wiped her eyes. "Thank you, Master Snape. I'm so sorry, this is all rather overwhelming. It came upon me when I wasn't really looking for it."

Scylla rolled her eyes. "As it should be. A Muggle, really."

"Enough, Scylla!" Severus snapped. "It is Christmas. No need for tears. We will sort this out when necessary, and that is not now. I hope that by telling us this, Abigail has lifted some of the weight from her shoulders."

Harry got up ridiculously early on Christmas morning. The presents had all been put under the huge tree in the sitting room, and although the members didn't have vast numbers of gifts, there were fourteen people present and that corner of the floor was covered with packages of all shapes, sizes and colours.

Neville met Harry coming out of the bathroom. "Happy Christmas!" The boys hugged in friendship and excitement.

Harry sat by the tree, he wanted to start opening presents, but he'd been told it was the Community practice to all do so together after breakfast. Miranda soon appeared and poked her head around the sitting room door. "Give me a hand, boys. Sooner we get the breakfast going, sooner they'll all appear. The smell soon gets them up."

Harry didn't think he'd want to eat breakfast, he just wanted to unwrap gifts, but once the toast and eggs, cereal, milk, yogurt, bread and butter, and fruit was set out, he fell on it. Neville sat munching happily on one of this season's apples.

Eventually, hours after Harry would have liked, they trekked into the sitting room and surrounded the tree. It was a big spruce, reaching up to the ceiling – they'd had to lop the long spike off the top just to get it in – but it looked small enough with all the Community surrounding it. Master Snape whispered a charm and a present flew into each of their hands. They all began unwrapping.

It was chaos. Bedlam. The room erupted in exclamations of "Ooh! Ah! Lovely! Dear old Aunt Hortensia!" (and those were just the ones Harry caught). Paper was banished to the fire, which was soon roaring mightily up the chimney. When one present had been unwrapped and appreciated, then set aside, another would come winging towards them.

Harry felt overwhelmed. He was sitting with a group of people who were his extended family, with his friend, and he'd got presents from everyone. He wanted to cry with the force of his emotions. He'd never had a Christmas like it. When he received a soft, silver present with black writing moving across its surface. 'To Harry, my own, from Severus'; he gasped. Severus had got him a present, and the greeting had been far more intimate than he'd expected. Perhaps his worries were unfounded after all.

Harry unwrapped it and gasped. A set of robes was revealed. They were navy blue and very fine. The wool was soft and felt more like silk the way it slipped through his fingers. He stood and held the robes against him. On the breast was an embroidered badge. Harry looked closely and read 'The Guild of Potion Makers'. He looked at Severus, who was smiling at him.

"You're a member now, Harry. As my apprentice I have enrolled you as a Student Member."

"Thank you," Harry said, really pleased. Unable to help himself, he went over to his master and kissed him on the cheek. "Thank you."

Neville admired the new robes. "They're a nice colour. The Guild of Herbologists wears green of course. A bit of a muddy green, if I'm honest. Still, it looks okay on me. Professor Sprout got me a set for my birthday."

Harry was amused to see Neville was blushing. "Shall I go and try them on?"

"Yes, go on, Harry. You can wear them at the Christmas table, along with the ring Lydia gave you."

Severus smiled as Harry hurried off to change. He had something more personal to give Harry later, but he was glad the boy was so pleased with his Potions Maker's robes. Idly, he returned to his next gift, only to notice the label 'to Severus, from Harry, with love.' Love. Severus' fingers felt clumsy as he pulled open the paper on the tube-shaped gift. The brass Advisor fell out and Severus gasped.

When Harry returned, dressed smartly in his new robes, which were tailored to his size, Severus realised just how handsome his apprentice was. He was a nice shape; his work on Eigg had tightened his body and the good food had helped to add muscle to his frame. Severus knew the truth – he didn't have a hope of denying the feelings he had for the younger man, and he no longer wanted to. The Community was changing, as these things did. With Abigail's declaration Severus had become more aware of life cycles. The younger members – and he was one of them – had to settle down sometime.

The rest of Christmas Day was spent in a never-ending whirl of eating, drinking, playing games and laughing at silly jokes. As time passed, the jokes seemed to get better. More likely it was the alcohol making them all seem so much funnier than they actually were. Harry had never had such a wonderful time at Christmas and he didn't think he'd ever spend a more perfect Christmas Day if he lived to be two hundred. The tree twinkled with charmed light and the Community members, all full and some very sleepy, started drifting off to their beds.

Master Snape stood and wished them all 'good night'. Everyone called out as he left, but Harry noticed his master's eyes lingering on him, and thought he read a message there. Maybe it was just wishful thinking, but the day had been perfect and going to bed was probably a good idea anyway.

"I'm tired, Nev. We were up early. I'll see you tomorrow," Harry said. "Good night, everyone. And Merry Christmas again!"

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Chapter 19: The Best Gifts Are Given In Private by Rakina

Chapter 19: The Best Gifts Are Given In Private

Harry had showered, cleaned his teeth and had just climbed into bed when he heard what he'd been hoping for – a light knock at his cell door. Smiling from ear to ear he jumped out and hurried over to let his master in.

"I know it's late, but I have a more personal gift for you, Harry. May I come in?"

Harry stood aside to let Severus in. "You're always welcome, Severus. I've missed you lately." Harry hoped his voice didn't sound too petulant or needy.

"I-" Severus was at a loss for words. He hadn't visited Harry lately because he didn't think he deserved to. He had been wracked by guilt over his inappropriate punishment of his apprentice. He knew the way he felt about Harry had been responsible for his over-reaction and loss of control, and he also knew that the more time he spent intimately with the young man, the worse that would get. Severus was almost afraid he'd repeat the error in a jealous rage.

Harry saw his master's discomfiture and didn't want it to be like this between them. He took drastic action and stepped forward to hug his master. "Thank you again for the robes," he said into the dark blue velvet of Severus' dressing robe.

Severus held Harry, sighing with pleasure to feel the young man in his arms again, where he surely belonged. It was pointless trying to fight it, Harry fit there so well and Severus didn't want to lose him. "I have something else for you, Harry. I didn't want to give it to you in front of the others. It is personal."

Harry let go and stepped back. "Come and sit on my bed, Master."

The two men sat side by side. Harry was happy to have Severus back in his cell; he just wanted to hug him, kiss him and start something more intimate. Harry hoped Severus wanted that too.

Severus passed a wrapped, oblong present to Harry.

"Oh, Severus!" Harry gasped as a silver bracelet was revealed. He took it out of the box and it draped like the softest material over his fingers. It was made of fine, interlocking links.

"Read it, Harry," Severus prompted quietly.

Harry turned the bracelet over and on the other side some of the segments were marked in an engraved script: To Harry, my apprentice. From your master, Severus. You complete me.

"Oh!" Harry was left speechless. The last three words could mean so much. He raised his eyes to meet his Master's intense gaze. "I don't know what to say. It's beautiful."

"Let me put it on." Severus took the bracelet from Harry's unresisting fingers and wrapped it around his right wrist. "It's made of platinum so it will not react with anything you're brewing. Will you wear it for me, all the time?"

Severus' voice sounded deep and he seemed in the grip of a powerful emotion. Harry was in no better state, but he managed to croak the reply, "Yes."

The bracelet settled in place. It fit perfectly and Harry wondered if magic was involved with that, for he couldn't work out how his Master would know the exact size of his wrist. Harry stared at it admiringly, then pulled himself together and leaned over to kiss Severus. He placed a soft, chaste kiss on his Master's lips. "Thank you. It's perfect."

With a groan of need Severus gathered the boy into his arms. "No, Harry. You're perfect – perfect for me."

And the kiss that had been waiting from the moment Severus entered the cell, was as intense and perfect as either could have imagined. They had both missed their intimacy and were hungry for touch. Severus tried to express his feelings with his actions, tangling his hands in Harry's hair, holding his head while he plundered his mouth. He didn't think he could get enough of Harry and felt a frisson of fear at the sheer power of his need.

Harry moaned with pleasure at the intensity of the kiss. All his fears and worries that Severus didn't really want him were washed away on a tide of happiness. The bracelet proved it, the inscription promised so much, and the kiss was as passionate as ever.

Severus began pulling at Harry's pyjamas – he had to touch more of Harry, to feel his body close to his own. Harry tugged at the back of Severus' dressing robe. Between them they exchanged signals and both parted, pulling their clothes off in hurried movements. Harry pushed himself back onto the bed, back against his pillows. Severus prowled after him, covering him. Both men were erect, eyes widened with urgent need and they fell, without another word, onto each other.

Severus' hands roamed, touched, delighted in the experience of Harry lying beneath him. He'd denied himself too long – foolishly, idiotically denied himself. Harry was his, he'd recognised Harry's rightness from the first time he'd met him, and how could he ever have doubted it? Only by satisfying each other could Severus calm this incandescent passion into something that wouldn't erupt every time Harry spent time with someone else. The depth of his possessiveness, which up to now he'd only shown towards his Community, was something Severus knew about himself, and something he was powerless to control. Harry made it all so much stronger because he was right; he was destined to be Severus' partner. Denial was for idiots, Severus had decided. From now on, he'd come to Harry as often as he could.

With a hunger he'd given up trying to control, Severus trailed his lips down Harry's neck, his chest, across his flat belly, aiming for the prize of Harry's delicious cock. He opened his mouth and sucked Harry in, swirling his tongue around the head in a gesture of welcome. Harry's moans spurred him on. Foolishness, his own utter foolishness had led to their distance, but now he was home and giving Harry pleasure. Harry wasn't going to last, Severus felt the gathering orgasm, slipped one hand around the tightening balls. He swallowed, again and again.

As Harry came he cried out, gripping his hands tightly in the sheets. He'd been watching the delightful sight of Severus' head nestled between his thighs, now his head fell back and his eyes closed tightly as he lurched through an orgasm almost painful in its intensity.

Severus' mouth gentled as the spasms slowed, tenderly cleaning Harry's cock with his tongue. He glanced up at the young man who was sprawled against his pillows, satisfied. Severus smiled around the cock as he released it, but he couldn't hold back much longer. He was so hard, so close to the edge after fellating Harry. He moved in for a kiss.

Harry opened his eyes, feeling Severus kiss him. He tasted the bitter saltiness of semen in Severus' mouth and moaned at the rightness of it all. "Master," he gasped when Severus drew back. He slid his hand down and grasped the hard, heated flesh that was pressing into his belly. His master was in need.

Harry's hand began to pump Severus' cock. Severus groaned at the friction, thrusting into Harry's grip. It had been so long… he wouldn't last, and he wasn't even going to try. He thrust, hips snapping in the basic rhythm common to all animals. Earthy, forceful, undeniable…

Severus flooded Harry's hand, relief in every pulse of his cock. He gasped and whispered "Transfero". Subtlety be damned, tonight was about relieving the burning need created by abstinence. Severus resolved to make it last longer once they'd assuaged their bodies' hunger, but for tonight, at least they'd be able to sleep comfortably now. He gathered Harry into his arms.

They lay quietly, neither seeing the need to speak, to break this perfect silence of closeness.

Finally, Severus whispered into Harry's ear. "Thank you for the Advisor, Harry. You didn't have to spend so much money on me."

"I thought you'd like it, Master. You are the most important person in my life." It was said simply and Severus knew he shouldn't dispute the statement which had the ring of truth. He was overcome and squeezed Harry tightly, unable to find words to say 'thank you', to say 'you are the most important person to me, as well'. He hoped Harry could feel it, anyway.

He had looked into the Advisor again – how could he resist? The vision had been the same, as he'd half expected. It was still important and having thought about it since the shopping trip, and studied the legends of Eigg, Severus thought he understood where it was going. Even if that place was almost unbelievable.

"The vision was the same as before," he said quietly.

Harry lay, forcing himself to be patient, not to push for the revelation. He had a feeling that it was very personal to Severus and if he asked questions he wouldn't be told. So he lay quietly and waited. Eventually, Severus spoke.

"That day in the shop I saw a most unexpected thing in the Advisor. I saw me, holding a baby, then laying it down and removing its clothes. The baby was a boy and I changed him, cleaning and soothing him, talking to him all the time."

Harry waited to see if there was more. There was not, it seemed, so he spoke. "Why is that so odd, Severus? Perhaps Abigail is going to have a baby, or maybe you were looking after a child for somebody. Or it might just be a symbol of the future of the Community and so it's very positive."

"Maybe." Severus' voice clearly showed he didn't believe either of those things. "But I think it is more personal than that. I think it was my son."

Harry gasped. His heart speeded up. Surely Severus wasn't going to get married? Severus didn't like witches, did he? Maybe this baby would be born as a result of the fertility magic, maybe Severus was going to lie with Scylla after all.

Severus felt Harry's reaction and soothed the younger man with tender strokes to his hair and his back.

"Are… are you going to have sex with a woman?" Harry's voice wavered.

"Now you are with me, I am going to have sex with no one but you. Forever," Severus whispered into Harry's ear.

Harry calmed down a little, but still felt anxious over this baby thing. No wonder Severus hadn't wanted to speak about it in the shop, or during the day. "Then it cannot be your baby, Severus," Harry said, reasonably.

Severus kissed him, saying, "I must leave now, Harry. It is very late, well past lights out. But read your legends. Merlin bless you."

As Severus left, a somewhat bemused Harry cuddled down into his bed clothes.

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Chapter 20: The Good Shepherd by Rakina

Chapter 20: The Good Shepherd

Harry arrived at breakfast wearing his bracelet. He was determined never to take it off. Severus had said 'forever' and Harry wanted that. He sat next to Neville and Abigail and she, being the good friend she was, noticed Harry's happy mood. Abigail herself was a little worried about what the future held – could she have a life that included both the Community and James? She was glad to see Harry so happy. Since the punishments, Harry had been edgy. Abigail knew the relationship between their Master and his apprentice was a deep one. She loved both men enough to want to see them both happy and together, and she believed it would happen once they did what men were so bad at and admitted their true feelings to each other.

Harry was buttering toast when an owl landed outside the window, pecking insistently.

"Can I let it in, Master Snape?" Danyel asked excitedly.

"You may, Danyel."

The young man jumped up and hurried across, opening the catch and talking to the owl. It hooted its thanks, then flew towards the recipient. It landed on the table to one side of Harry, facing Neville, who looked surprised. But then the bird stuck its leg in Abigail's direction, and she was even more surprised. She'd never received an owl since Harry had been at the Community.

Abigail's face fell when she realised the letter was in a red envelope.

"Take it, quickly!" Master Snape told her.

His sharp tone startled her out of her shock and she took the letter. The Howler opened and a loud, angry voice filled the dining room.

"You thoughtless, reckless fool! You will taint magical monasticism by consorting with a Muggle! The whole idea of living like this is to shun Muggle influences, and you go and start shagging a filthy, island Muggle! You do not belong here. If you stay you will taint Master Snape's Community and bring about its end. Get out, before it's too late! If you prefer shagging Muggles to living like a proper witch, get out and never come back!"

The voice faded. Abigail's normally rosy-cheeked face had gone white, she looked as if she was about to pass out. Her mother got up and came over to embrace her. Her father's face had gone redder than ever, he looked as if he wanted to throttle someone, but the paper of the Howler had shredded itself and Josiah couldn't even have the satisfaction of tearing it up.

There were tears in Abigail's eyes. "Master Snape, it's not true. I haven't been sh… shagging anyone! I like Jamie, but I won't put the Community in danger. I'll leave-"

Severus got to his feet, glowering. He radiated magical strength in his anger. "You will do no such thing. You are a valuable, and valued member of this Community. This is nothing but cowardly, foul slander. If the person who sent it cannot stand up and say it in front of us, they are not worth listening to. You have my confidence, Abigail."

Abigail burst into tears of relief, sobbing into her mum's shoulder. Lydia fished out a clean hanky for her daughter.

Severus continued: "I have told you, we will face the situation with your relationship when it becomes necessary. Until I make a decision, nothing is fixed. You will not leave the Community, certainly not on the say-so of an anonymous Howler. This is your home." He sat down, glowering around the table to ensure nobody disagreed. No one said a word. The guests – Professor Sprout and Neville – looked embarrassed at witnessing such a scene. Harry looked at his fellow members' faces; they all looked outraged on Abigail's behalf. All except, in Harry's view, Scylla, who concentrated on her plate and said not a word to anyone. She was going to spend the day with her friends and would be leaving very soon.

Neville and Professor Sprout left later that morning, with many thanks for a wonderful Christmas and invitations for Harry to visit and stay at Hogwarts soon. Harry thought he might like to one day, but right now he didn't want to leave Eigg, or Severus, for longer than the odd trip to Diagon Alley.

On the 6th of January the Christmas decorations were banished in a small ceremony traditional to Twelfth Night. Miranda had cooked the last mince pies of the season and they all helped themselves to warmed pies filled with whisky butter. Christmas was officially over and the harshest part of the winter lay ahead of them. Spring was still a distant prospect. Master Snape bade everyone help out as needed with the outdoor work. Feeding and checking on the animals was a heavy job at this time of year. Harry was happy to take his turn. Although the cold was fierce, the wind unrelenting, the ground often covered with a dusting of snow, he loved feeling he was part of the island through this harsh season. Harry felt as if the Earth was holding its breath, holding on for the spring.

A couple of mornings after Twelfth Night, Danyel came running in from outside. "Da' says can you come and help. Some of the sheep are out!"

Master Snape directed Harry, Josiah and Argus to go and help with the round up. The three men got up and dressed in their outdoor gear. As they left the warmth of the communal dining room they gasped at the fierceness of the wind. There was a layer of snow covering the ground as they stomped off towards the sheep pasture. The winter pasture was supposed to keep the sheep in, safe and sheltered. If they got out they followed their instinct to roam the island looking for food and that could be disastrous in a severe winter.

Jolyon waved at them as they approached. "The older ewes and most of the younger ones are still here. I've put them behind these hurdles for now. About five of the younger ones have strayed. You can see their tracks going off towards the East Stone." Jolyon pointed to where there was a break in the fence.

And so they set out, and Harry soon learned that sheep did not walk in a straight line, but at least their tracks were easy to follow in the snow. They continued generally eastwards, the pruned, leafless vines on their left looking bleak in the distance. All seemed well until the sheep split up.

"This would have to happen," Jolyon grumbled. "Sheep usually stick together. But once in a while you'll get an awkward one."

One of the sheep seemed to have veered to the north once the vines had ended. The open countryside covered in snow stretched away towards the dry-stone wall of the northern fields. "I'll go after the odd one," Harry volunteered.

"Well, I dunno if that's wise," Jolyon said. "There's four or five gone this way, to the East Stone I reckon. P'raps we should just write that odd one down as lost."

"It's a young ewe, Da'," Danyel said, sounding agitated. "You can't leave her! I'll go with Harry."

"That you will not. Harry doesn't want to have to keep an eye on you as well as the sheep. I cannot spare anyone to go with you, Harry. There's too many gone this way, they might need digging out and they will need carrying back. Even with magic it will probably take the four of us to get them back. But I don't like the idea of you going off alone. If something should happen-"

"I know the lie of the land, Jolyon. And there's only the one to bring back. I can do it."

"I don't like it either," Josiah added.

"If I don't get back soon after you, you can come and look for me. Chances are I'll meet you on the way. There's a lot of open land up there, she's probably wandered a bit."

This sounded reasonable, so Jolyon nodded, albeit reluctantly. "Best get about it then, lad. Light's short and there's sheep to rescue."

The four men trudged off toward the East Stone. Harry turned and set his face to the north. It was hard going, the ground got steeper the further he went and he had to keep his eyes screwed shut most of the time to protect himself against the icy wind. He could follow the track easily – it was definitely one sheep; one odd, go-it-alone sheep that wanted to go north. Once or twice Harry thought he could hear it bleating, but eventually decided it was just a trick of the wind, which was moaning and gusting noisily. Squinting ahead, Harry could see the dry-stone wall of the field he remembered from his boundary walks.

As he reached the wall, expecting to find the straying ewe, everything started to go wrong. The sheep wasn't there. There was a patch of compacted snow where she might have laid down awhile, but there were tracks leading away towards the wards. And it started to snow. Harry knew this was bad; it would make the sheep tracks harder to see and make the already poor visibility even worse. He gritted his teeth and hurried on, ignoring his aching legs; the chill of his body had become noticeable once he'd stopped walking.

The sheep had reached the wards and turned south. The wards protected the Community lands from Muggles and also protected everything within, including the animals. The ewe had been guided to stay within their lands and Harry was glad it had worked. He was now walking southwards along the route of the boundary rites, heading toward the East Stone. Maybe he'd catch up with the others, though he doubted it. If they'd found their sheep they'd be headed back to the Community by now.

The young ewe's tracks were being buried by the new snow. The temperature seemed to have dropped further. Harry soldiered on, his feet feeling numb with cold despite his thick, woollen socks and dragonhide boots. His head was swathed in a woollen scarf and his cloak hood pulled up; just his eyes peered out into the gathering gloom. He had no idea of the time, but it couldn't be too late, it was not dark yet. The sky was leaden with the threat of continuing snow.

Harry began to feel oddly spaced out. His legs seemed numb, though he kept them moving by concentrating on putting one leg in front of the other. There was no feedback from the ground to tell him he was succeeding, but he kept moving forwards. He could hear bleating, he was sure of it this time. The East Stone enclosure lay ahead, just a few more steps….

"You let him go? For a single ewe? What possessed you to be so stupid, Jolyon? One boy out there alone in this weather?" Master Snape paced and raged at the farmer and his returning party. A party short of one. "Don't bother taking your cloaks off! We're going straight back to get him."

They set out, following Master Snape who was striding along with an urgency born of the sense of dread that had seized him when Harry had failed to return with the others. Jolyon was subdued; he knew he shouldn't have let Harry go. He just hoped the young man would be fine, that they'd meet him returning with his sheep. The visibility was poor now; you could hardly see ten feet ahead.

Soon they reached the spot where they had split up and Harry had gone north. Severus looked grimly at the surrounding landscape. Cold as death, bleak as only an island in the depths of winter could be. They could wander all day and not find Harry. If he was injured, trapped somewhere… Severus drew his wand. He started to chant, an old spell that he'd never used before. The Reperio Anima Meam spell was used to show soul-bonded couples the location of their other halves. Severus wasn't sure it would work with him and Harry, they weren't formally bonded, but his feelings for Harry were so deep, and he thought Harry felt the same way, so he was determined to try.

Severus' wand spun away from the north, straight ahead. "We carry on this way."

Nobody dared gainsay their master. His grim determination invited no dissent. They walked on to the east. Josiah glanced at Jolyon with a questioning look. Jolyon shook his head, unsure why his master was leading them this way, instead of following Harry's steps. If they didn't find Harry soon, the fierce cold might have claimed him. Harry should have returned by now if he was able to. Surely the boy had the sense to leave the search before he became incapable of getting back?

The East Stone enclosure was just visible under the deeper level of snow. When the men had come here earlier the snow had just been starting. They'd had no trouble finding the huddled sheep that were sheltering with their backs to the fence and then levitating one each back to their byre. The tops of the fence peeked out of the snow. There was little else to see.

When they reached the fence, the enclosure and the stone were still partly clear. The boundary stones never seemed to get covered in snow, which was a sign of their magic.

Severus let out an exclamation and hurried down, leaping over the fence to get into the enclosure. Harry was lying against the stone, his arms flung open. The ewe was sitting against the stone, looking stupidly calm and unaware what the fuss was about. A trickle of blood marked Harry's temple. Severus rushed over to him and pulled the young man into his arms. Blood had soaked into the hood of Harry's cloak; some lay in a semi-frozen pool under where his head had lain. Severus moaned in fear. He slipped the scarf away from Harry's nose and mouth and felt for signs of life.

"Thank Merlin!" he sighed, detecting Harry's breathing. But the boy was cold, his face felt like marble. He cast a warming charm around Harry before levitating him. "Let's get back. Bring the wretched sheep, Jolyon."

Reperio Anima Meam = find my soul(mate).

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Chapter 21: Crime And Punishment by Rakina

Author's Notes:

Please be aware this chapter contains violence in the form of harsh punishment. Do not read it if that will upset you, but click on to the next chapter.

Chapter 21: Crime and Punishment

Severus spent the next few hours tending to Harry. He removed Harry's blood-soaked clothes to find the young man's body chilled and damp, despite the warming charm he'd cast earlier. He cast it again along with a drying charm, pulled the covers up over Harry's naked body and turned his attention to the head wound. Severus began by cleaning it as gently as he could, but the wound was ragged and Harry had been lying in the open with his head on the cold stones for a while. Dirt had been ground into the wound and Severus had to probe to remove it all. Cleansing spells were too harsh for this kind of situation and he'd chosen to use Muggle methods. Harry remained unconscious, but he reacted to the painful stimulus. His arms came up, thrashing at Severus, and Severus had to cast a partial Petrificus on the young man. Harry made sounds of pain throughout the examination and the cleansing. Severus' stomach clenched and he felt sick, though it had been many hours since breakfast.

Next, Severus used a cleansing and healing balm on the wound. The unconscious Harry didn't moan so much at this; Severus knew the balm was soothing and would take some of the pain away. He wanted Harry to drink pain relief potion, but that couldn't happen while the boy was unconscious, in case he choked. Although Harry couldn't speak or open his eyes, from observing his reactions Severus believed the young man could probably still hear him and feel pain. He felt powerless to help, a most uncomfortable feeling for the Master of the Community.

When he'd done all he could to make Harry comfortable, he charmed a warm pair of pyjamas onto his patient. Wherever the wound wasn't involved he used magic to minimise handling Harry – to warm him, clean him, dry him and now to dress him. Harry lay in his bed looking cold, pale and still. He looked alarmingly like a corpse and the sight was striking fear into Severus. The young man ought to be getting some colour back soon. Severus stayed by Harry's bed, making himself comfortable in the soft armchair Harry loved.

The more Severus looked at his Harry, the more scared and angry he became. This should never have happened. One of the basic survival rules on Eigg in winter was not to let anyone go off alone. And yet Jolyon, supposedly a sensible adult, had agreed to let Harry, the newest and youngest Community member, wander off to find a sheep. Yes, the young ewes were valuable, but compared to Harry a whole flock of them meant nothing. Severus felt a burning rage inside, getting fiercer as the hours ticked by. Jolyon would suffer for his extreme carelessness.

Miranda brought a serving of lamb hotpot to Severus. She'd kept it warm for him as it was long past dinner time. She'd looked in earlier when he'd been tending Harry and hadn't disturbed him.

"I hope this is the strayed sheep," Severus said bitterly.

"It's not the dumb beast's fault, Master," Miranda said sadly.

Severus sighed. "You're right, of course. I'm sorry."

Miranda looked surprised, her master rarely apologised. It was a form of weakness to admit he had anything to apologise for. Her master looked so different from his usual self, so worried that he literally wasn't himself at the moment. "I'll bring your meals here, then, until he's well enough to leave."

"Thank you, Miranda."

Miranda felt tears pricking her eyes. Poor Harry looked waxy and pale, like a ghost, or one already dead. She liked Harry, he was easy to like and so happy here on Eigg. She left quietly as Master Snape started to eat his stew, his eyes never leaving Harry, his actions merely mechanical. She doubted he even tasted the savoury meal.

Severus pushed the empty bowl aside. Harry would need nutrition; some food would help him maintain a good body temperature. Harry's hands still felt chilled and Severus touched the boy's chest to feel his core temperature – that, too, was too cold. He cast the warming charm again. Harry had lost a fair bit of blood judging by his soiled cloak and the pool of blood that had been left drying on the stones. He needed a replenishing potion, but while Harry remained unconscious it would be difficult.

Severus decided he had to try to get some potion into the young man. He stood up and went into the corridor. It was past lights out now, but this was an emergency. He lit his wand and headed for his storeroom, where he chose several vials of different potions. Next, he headed back to the cells, stopping outside room four he rapped on the door, for once uncaring that he was probably disturbing the whole corridor with his loud and urgent knocking.

The door creaked open and a dishevelled woman peered around it; long, dark hair hung in plaits framing her face.

"I need your help, Scylla."

She nodded and grabbed a dressing gown. She padded behind him, her slippers slapping along the stone floor to Harry's room. "Merlin, he looks bad!" she exclaimed.

"He needs a blood replenishing potion. As you can see, he's still unconscious. It's risky giving it, but he's too cold. I cannot get his temperature up. Help me. Hold him and make sure his tongue's out of the way."

Scylla sat on the bed and pulled Harry against her chest. She tipped his head back and checked his airway was clear. Severus could only hope that Harry's swallowing reflex still worked to prevent him choking. Severus took the dark brown bottle and started to tip its contents into Harry's mouth.

Harry coughed. Severus was glad to see it, the reflex was still working. Harry's mouth and tongue worked and the potion was swallowed, bit by bit. Scylla held the young man's head steady as they got the dose down, not rushing the unconscious patient. When the bottle was empty, Severus nodded to her to lie him down again.

"Ideally, I would give him some pain relief as he shows signs of awareness of pain, but it exhausted him getting that much down him, so we'll repeat the activity tomorrow. I think he'll sleep now."

Scylla nodded. "I'll come back after breakfast if you wish. You'll be here for a while, I expect, so I'll get started on the new batches for Slug & Jiggers."

"Yes, please do that," Severus said, never taking his eyes from Harry.

Scylla left.

Harry seemed to be more peaceful once Severus, with Scylla's help, had administered pain potion the next morning. He still felt cool, but not as chilled as the night before. He remained unconscious, though he seemed to dream – his eyelids showed the agitated movement of his eyes and he made soft sounds of distress from time to time. When this started, Severus would hold Harry's hand, gently stroking his cheeks with his other hand and talking soft words to him. Harry seemed to turn into the touch but only calmed gradually. Still, at least he didn't flinch from being touched, which Severus took as a positive sign.

Severus got up and paced Harry's cell, needing to stretch his legs. He hadn't left, except to use the toilet, since he'd brought Harry home. His eyes hardly left the young man's face even as he paced. He was interrupted by a knock at the door and walked over to open it.

Jolyon Tadcaster stood there, looking uncomfortable but determined. "May I speak to you, Master Snape?"

Severus didn't want to leave Harry, but nor did he want this conversation in the cell where he thought the unconscious Harry still retained his sense of hearing. He nodded brusquely and stepped into the corridor, closing the door quietly behind him. "Make it quick."

"Master Snape, I have done a grievous wrong," Jolyon began.

Severus interrupted. "The most grievous I have known in my Community, Jolyon."

The farmer's face flushed and he looked embarrassed. "I know it, Master."

"What the hell were you thinking?" Severus burst out. The sight of Jolyon had ignited a rage that burned so fiercely inside him that he wanted to strike the farmer standing in front of him, to hit him right across his rosy cheeks. Jolyon knew he'd done wrong; he was surely too experienced to have made such a mistake in the first place.

"I – do not rightly know. Young Harry seemed so sure of himself. He knew the way; he said he'd be all right."

"In January? Alone in a snowstorm? Heading north to the Sgurr?" Severus reeled off the obvious facts and Jolyon flinched at each one. "And even if you were convinced he could go, to let him go alone…"

"I cannot change what is done. I would bear his pain if I could."

"You will, Jolyon. Be very sure of that. He lies near death. If he dies…" Severus couldn't continue, his throat closed up. His fists were clenched by his side and he felt his hair start to rise. It had been decades since he'd lost control of his magic, but he felt it happening now.

Jolyon saw the change in his master; he knew it was fuelled by rage. Despite that, he stood where he was, knowing he deserved it.

"Get out!" Severus yelled, and the farmer turned and fled. A gust of magical force flew along the corridor. The framed texts flew from the walls, their glass shattering. Cell doors banged open. At the end of the corridor the rushing tide of power slammed into the stone wall and chips of granite flew back into the corridor. Severus was glad the Community members were all about their business. He felt the backdraft as the power passed him, now thankfully much diminished. Gradually, the air calmed and the roaring sound faded.

Harry's cell door was still closed and Severus sighed with relief. He went back into Harry's room. Harry was thrashing in the bed, limbs entangled in the covers, crying out in distress. Severus hurried over to calm the young man, cursing himself for the outburst even though he knew he couldn't have stopped it.

When Miranda delivered Severus' lunch of thick winter vegetable soup and rolls she passed on a message. "Jolyon intends to punish himself after dinner, Master. He's requested you come along. Eight o'clock in the dining area."

Severus nodded, tight-lipped. He'd go along. And he would help.

Miranda knew punishment was in order this time more than ever. She hated watching it and knew this would be bad. She also knew Master Snape would insist they all attend and planned to take an anti-nausea draft beforehand; Scylla had given them to her before when a punishment was due and they usually helped her control her weak stomach. "I'll bring your dinner later, Master. What will we do for Harry? He can't eat like that."

"I am giving him nutrient potions. They are not ideal long-term, but pray Merlin it doesn't come to that."

Severus spent the day with Harry, wondering how long all this would continue. Harry seemed peaceful when he left just before eight, but there was no sign of the boy waking up. Harry was normally so full of life, Severus only now realised how much time they spent together, how he took it for granted that he'd hear Harry's voice.

He strode into the dining area, where everyone else was sitting around, subdued and serious.

"How is Harry?" Abigail asked, daring to address their fierce-looking master.

"Unchanged. He is unconscious and so far shows no sign of waking up. With Scylla's help I am giving him nutrient, pain relief and blood replenishing potions. We can only wait and hope he wakes, and then that he will be the same boy he was before this happened. Head injuries can steal the personality, leaving only a sorry shadow of the person behind."

Abigail's face twisted in pain. Harry had become her dear friend, her confidant at the Community. It sounded like he was never coming back… She sat down and fished for her handkerchief as tears welled up. Her mother put her arm around her, but could offer no words of comfort.

A chair scraped across the stone flags and Jolyon stood up. "It is my fault, none other's. I confess to this most grievous fault. Because I got distracted earlier in the year when we got sent to the guest house, I did not check on the security of the winter paddock. A weakness in the fence line was overlooked and that is my responsibility, none other's. Then, because of my bad judgment Harry got lost. I let him go alone. It was my choice to let him go and my double error not to send someone with him. I put the welfare of a few sheep over Harry's. I do not know why I did it. It felt wrong but I still agreed with his plan. I know nothing I can do will help him now, but I accept my punishment this evening gladly. Whatever you decree, Master, I deserve ten times over."

Severus turned his eyes to Jolyon with reluctance. It was obvious the sight of the man offended him. "Strip."

Jolyon's eyes widened. The humiliation of being naked in front of the whole community, which included his son, hurt. He swallowed, but undressed quickly.

The women had huddled together in a group; none stared at the farmer, looking away to spare his blushes.

"Look at him, all of you!" Severus snapped. "His penance is to be witnessed. Harry cannot be here but you can all watch this for him."

Nobody would argue with their master at the best of times. In this mood, his rage plainly simmering just under the surface, nobody would dare. All eyes fixed on the farmer standing naked and vulnerable before them.

"Accio."

The kitchen whip flew into Severus' hand and he held it firmly. He muttered some words no one caught and the tail of the whip trembled. Knots stood out along its length. Jolyon saw it and clenched his jaw, knowing this would hurt more than the smooth plaited leather.

"Josiah, Argus, hold him."

The two men came and each took one of Jolyon's arms, holding them out to his side. Severus stood behind him, and raised the whip.

"Thirty," Severus said. "Count them."

And he began to whip the farmer. At first, it almost seemed routine, the sort of punishment they'd all seen before, but after about ten blows the effects of the knots became obvious. As well as stripes appearing on the farmer's back, there were deeper wounds where the knots impacted. Jolyon was sweating, twisting in the grip of the other men as the whip bit painfully into his flesh.

Danyel began to moan. He'd been crying as soon as the punishment started; now he was moaning aloud. Richeldis went over to him and held him, whispering into his ear.

Jolyon was having trouble counting. "You will count!" Severus roared. They'd reached twenty; Severus stopped for breath. Blood was running down the man's back and buttocks now, but it was as if Master Snape did not see it, or could not see the man as human any longer. Sweat trickled down his face, his jaw was clenched, his eyes ferocious. He raised his arm again.

Five strokes later the two men supporting Jolyon gave up. The farmer slumped to the floor, his legs unable to support him any more. He was conscious, but didn't respond when Severus yelled, "Get up!"

"Master, we cannot hold him," Argus said. He understood Severus' rage, felt a lot of it himself. That a wizard, an outdoors man, should have done this was unforgivable. Argus was not a man to coddle the young, but this whole episode was unnecessary. The Community had a new, young member for the first time in a while and Jolyon's ineptitude had nearly killed him, and might do yet.

"Then lay him on the floor."

The two supporters laid Jolyon on the floor, arms outstretched; they held his wrists down though the man did not resist at all.

Severus resumed the whipping. "You count, Argus."

By now nobody felt very well. Flecks of blood flew up when the whip cut through the air. Master Snape, Argus and Josiah looked like they'd been splattered with red paint. Jolyon was letting out a constant keening; his son was wailing hopelessly.

Miranda was being supported by Lydia, but it was just too much. She turned away and ran to the sink, vomiting despite the potion she'd hoped would prevent it.

When Argus yelled 'Thirty' Severus' hand was already raised for another blow. There was a red mist before his eyes and his ears were buzzing, but he managed to stop himself with difficulty. He threw the whip to the floor and turned and stalked out without another word.

Severus entered Harry's cell. He had to check on Harry before he cleaned himself up. Harry seemed peaceful enough. With a shaking hand Severus stroked Harry's fringe to the side, feeling his brow.

"Come back to me, Harry, my own blessèd boy," he begged.

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Chapter 22: The Awakening by Rakina

Chapter 22: The Awakening

Ironically, the day of Jolyon's punishment had been Severus' birthday. Miranda's cake and the gifts the others had made for him had been put to one side, waiting for the right time to give them to him. The Community members felt miserable at the sight of it. What should have been a joyous day had ended up being a nightmare. Severus hardly left Harry's cell and when he did he was grim and unsmiling – unapproachable, which did nothing to help the rest of them.

It was agreed that Scylla should tell Master Snape about the gifts that were waiting for him. Scylla had to report to him about the potions she was brewing for their customers; the research and experimental work had come to a halt.

Severus' immediate instinct was to snap that he wasn't interested in his birthday or their gifts, but he managed to prevent himself. Grudgingly, he left Harry's cell for a while that evening and went to accept his friends' offerings. To his own surprise he felt an upsurge of emotion break through his numbness when he saw what they'd all done for him. Even Jolyon had made a gift – a soft pouch of sheepskin he'd made himself to attach to Severus' belt, either for coins or precious ingredients.

Severus suddenly found himself feeling unworthy – he'd neglected his Community since Harry's accident and further, he'd lost control in front of all of them. And yet, here they were, lining up to offer him tokens of their admiration. He felt a rush of fierce love for these people and embraced them all, just managing to hold back his tears. He'd never felt so emotionally exposed in his life and knew it was because of Harry. Harry had brought him to life and right now he didn't know whether he liked it or not – it seemed to bring pain rather than anything else.

Harry. How cruel it would be if he never got to love Harry like he wanted to. He'd held the boy, taught him about sex and he thought he'd made it plain to Harry that he loved him, but maybe he hadn't, not clearly enough. And maybe it was too late.

When Jolyon hesitantly approached him to hand over his gift, Severus could see the lines of suffering on the farmer's face. After the punishment, the women had taken the farmer and healed his back as well as they could. The deep cuts had been closed, the tissue restored; although the worst areas were still painful they were nothing like as bad as they would have been had they followed their Master's usual practice and left the wounds to heal naturally. It was obvious to all that Master Snape had not been in his right mind during the punishment and Lydia had directed the women to help her heal Jolyon. The man's suffering remained, however.

Jolyon had hardly been able to eat, sick with worry. The guilt weighed on him. Every time he saw his son, he felt worse. Harry had been so good to Danyel, had been in trouble because of his care for Jolyon's son, and how had Jolyon rewarded the young man? By endangering his life. If Harry died, Jolyon didn't know if he would be able to live with himself.

Severus lightly embraced Jolyon after receiving his gift and gave an extra squeeze to his upper arms. He couldn't speak, still couldn't utter the words that would offer forgiveness, but yet he realised he still cherished the man as he did all his Community. The farmer's suffering, both physical and mental, was obvious. But Severus was suffering too, barely holding on. The whole Community needed Harry to make it, to wake up and be the young man he'd been before. But right now it seemed like too much to hope for. Overcome, Severus croaked his goodbyes and hurried back to Harry's room.

January hung around like an unwelcome visitor, slow to leave. It always seemed a long month. Dark and cold, the anticlimax after the winter rites. With Harry lying unconscious the month dragged more than ever.

Severus spent time trying out different potions on Harry, chanting healing spells and talking to the unconscious youth as he had never done to anyone else. He told Harry much of his childhood history, his experiences at Hogwarts, and finally the painful isolation of his youth and the retreat to Eigg. He knew that if by some miracle Harry woke and remembered, the young man would understand Severus as nobody else on this Earth did. Severus hoped that if that happened Harry wouldn't scorn him as an inadequate human being who'd run away to live with other similarly damaged folk, hiding in a dream of the past. But the important thing was that Harry would regain his health and when Severus talked the young man appeared to react. So the words had spilled out – things Severus had never told anybody. About his involvement with Lucius Malfoy's bigoted movement and how he'd been invited into the group after Lucius' enthusiastic introduction. He'd accepted, believing he could use their contacts to better himself. Then he thought he'd found somewhere he belonged and would find friends. Only later did he discover the true nature of the group and how difficult it would be to leave their network which stretched throughout Britain. Lucius still held some power over Severus, though Severus had worked hard to separate himself and his Community from the man's influence. And he'd nearly succeeded.

At times Severus thought he saw real improvement in Harry's condition. Harry appeared to be resting in a more genuine sleep state, less like an unconscious person. Once, Severus thought Harry was about to wake up. He held his breath, heart racing, praying to all the deities he could think of. But Harry had let out a little sigh and seemed to fall back into a deeper sleep. Severus wanted to scream his disappointment when he saw it. He couldn't just sit there any longer and he left the cell, striding out to the kitchen where Miranda took one look at him and gave him a mug of tea with a large dash of whisky in it.

January 27th, the Community's calendar stated. The month was nearly up. Harry had been injured on the 8th. Jolyon's punishment on the 9th had traumatised them all, although Jolyon was largely recovered now the Community was still unsettled. Severus did not question the farmer's recovery, preferred not to face the memory of what he'd done that day. In fact he could scarcely remember it; his traumatised mind had wiped the incident from his memory.

Severus worried that the longer Harry was unconscious, the worse it would be when he woke. Now Harry was more settled Severus ate breakfast with the Community again, trying to re-establish some routine by answering questions and listening to their news. He'd never felt this way before – as if his life here was almost irrelevant. What did it matter if the vines cropped better pruned a certain way? Or Slug and Jiggers wanted to increase their order of Fluid Joint Potion? Severus answered in the way he knew they wanted, but for the first time he was having to force himself to take an interest in his own Community. He pushed back his chair after eating and talking and headed back to Harry.

"Sev'rus?"

A weak voice came from the bed as Severus closed the cell door with a 'snick'. He spun around, heart pounding; fearful he was imagining the sound he so desperately wanted to hear. Harry's eyes were closed. Severus stepped up to the bed, almost afraid to speak in case he was disappointed. "Harry?"

Harry's eyelids moved, fluttered; his eyes opened and he looked up at Severus. Severus let out a sob – the unusual green of Harry's eyes was so startling and he'd almost forgotten it! He stumbled the last few steps to the bed and knelt down by Harry's side, completely incapable of speech.

Harry's lips twitched into a little smile. "It's okay," he said.

Tears slid quietly down Severus' cheeks and his heart ached with a sharp pain as he dared to allow himself to believe what he was seeing. He took Harry's hand and raised it to his lips, kissing it. "Please…" he begged, to anyone who would listen.

Harry's eyes fluttered closed again as if he couldn't hold them open for long.

"You must be exhausted, Harry. You've been unconscious for so long."

"How long?" Harry's voice showed his tiredness too, but he could still talk even though he couldn't keep his eyes open.

"You were injured on the 8th of January, it's now the 27th," Severus said. "Do you remember falling down?"

Harry frowned. "I was outside in the cold… it was so cold. I remember walking and trying to keep going. That's all."

"We found you. You'd fallen by the East Stone and hit your head. I healed it, but you wouldn't wake up. Thank Merlin you've woken now, I was afraid I'd lost you." Severus' voice was full of tears.

Harry's hand weakly squeezed Severus'. "I couldn't leave you," he whispered.

Moments later, he was asleep again. Severus forced himself not to disturb him, to let Harry sleep. It felt like losing him again, but this hadn't been his imagination – Harry had woken up. Maybe, just maybe, he'd be all right after all.

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Chapter 23: 'Bare Winter Suddenly Was Changed To Spring' by Rakina

Chapter 23: 'Bare Winter Suddenly Was Changed To Spring'

This chapter's title is from The Question, by Percy Bysshe Shelley.

Severus decided he liked February much better than its predecessor. Harry was definitely on the mend. He was staying awake for longer periods and eating a little more each day. Severus helped him to sit up in bed propped up on his pillows. The others had visited one by one, all relieved and delighted to see Harry coming back to them. Danyel had spent his whole visit holding Harry's hand and crying like a baby; Severus knew just how he felt.

Severus still spent the majority of his time caring for Harry. He was afraid to leave; afraid Harry wouldn't be there when he returned. Harry smiled at him a lot, and loved having his hand held. All the time he thanked Severus for his care. As Severus laid him down one night, Harry said, "Please, Severus. Kiss me."

Severus' heart leapt and he felt like crying all over again. He leaned down and kissed Harry, gently, but lingering as long as he could. Harry still tasted like he always had and Severus knew he was still that same person – his own apprentice, his companion, his love. And he knew he had to say it. He'd now learned that putting things off until tomorrow was folly, for tomorrow might never arrive. "I love you, Harry."

Harry smiled and mouthed the words back to Severus. He was so tired his words were just a whisper: "I love you, Severus."

Severus was so happy he felt as if his heart would burst out of his chest. He turned the lights low so Harry could sleep and went to sit with his Community. For the first time since the accident, he felt able to join in with their company, glad he had good news to tell them.

"Master Snape, please could I speak to you privately," Scylla said. The Community were all finishing breakfast a couple of weeks after Harry had woken up.

"I'll see you in the sitting room now."

Severus waved his assistant to a seat and sat opposite her, knowing by the pinched look on her face that this was going to be a problem.

"Master Snape, you realise I have been doing all the brewing while your apprentice was unconscious –"

Severus was immediately affronted. Scylla never called Harry by his given name, usually referring to him as 'the apprentice'. It seemed particularly cold with the young man lying ill in bed, a young man she'd helped Severus treat right after his injury. "I would expect that of my Second Brewer, Scylla," Severus said.

"Of course. And I was happy to do it while the boy was unconscious. But since he has woken up, the situation has remained the same. Frankly, the work is getting beyond me and I can see no reason why you would not help."

Severus was getting annoyed now. He understood better than anyone how busy it could get brewing potions for the increased orders. But none of their stock potions were difficult for a competent brewer to produce and Scylla had done them all many times. As far as Severus could see the only reason she would complain, just days after Harry's return to the land of the living, was jealousy.

"I am the only qualified Healer on the island, Scylla. Harry still needs care, in fact almost as much as when he was unconscious."

"I'm sorry, but a lot of what you're doing is just keeping him company. The others could do that in turn, leaving you free to assist with the potions work."

"I do not and will not assist you, Scylla. The reverse is the case – your job as Second Brewer is to assist me in whatever I direct you to do. By continuing the routine production while Harry is ill, you are doing no more than your job. You wanted to be designated Second Brewer and now you are complaining about the work the position entails. I am the Master of this Community, and the Potions Master. You do not tell me how to run this Community, and especially you do not tell me how to run the Potions workrooms. My priority at the moment is to get Harry well. He almost died. Now, if there is nothing else, I suggest we all get back to our jobs."

Scylla glared at him, but did not answer. With a curt nod of her head, she got up and left the sitting room. Severus sighed. Scylla had been nothing but a problem since Harry had arrived at the Community. She had always been full of airs and graces, though without another worker in the Potions rooms she'd fitted in well enough. Now, Severus wasn't so sure she'd last long term. Which would be a shame, what with Severus spending time researching and providing Harry's education and the need to produce enough potions to keep the Community's finances healthy, they could do with her input.

Later that day something happened that cheered Severus greatly and made him forget Scylla's contrariness. Severus helped Harry get out of bed and walk to the bathroom. The young man was pleased to be able to see to his own personal needs and although the short distance tired him, it was a very important step in his recovery. Each day that passed they spent longer talking together. Severus was now sure that Harry's personality remained unchanged. He gave thanks every day that he still had Harry, because he'd despaired of that happening.

On the 3rd of February, they had a visitor. A slender, blond man strode into the dining area at lunchtime and accepted the invitation to join in with the meal.

"My father sent me, Master Snape. He heard you'd had something of a tragedy, that your apprentice was on his deathbed."

"Your father was correct, Mr. Malfoy. Harry had an accident and hit his head. He was unconscious for nearly three weeks. Thankfully, he is on the mend now."

"Really? Perhaps I could visit him, say hello for old times' sake."

Severus didn't want Draco near Harry. It was just a gut feeling; there could be no logical reason to feel that way. But Severus remembered that Draco had not been Harry's friend at school and he doubted his apprentice would be overjoyed to receive this visitor. But with the delicate situation with Lucius and his organisation it was not wise to refuse what was, after all, a reasonable request.

"I will take you along after lunch. I am surprised to see you here; the weather is very inclement for Apparition."

"You're right there. It's freezing and the wind – unbelievable. I doubt you get many guests in that guest house at this time of year."

"Eigg is a beautiful island for three seasons of the year, but winter can be another matter, I admit that. You're a different person when you've wintered on the island."

Draco's sceptical look made it clear the young man had no wish to try.

Severus led the blond youth along the corridor to Harry's cell. "I remember these cells, Severus, from the school trip. Not very comfortable for an invalid, are they?"

"Harry is not an invalid. He is getting better with each day that passes." Severus pushed open the door to Harry's cell. "You have a visitor, Harry," he announced.

Harry looked up from his book and saw who was following his master, and his face paled. He'd never been comfortable in Malfoy's company, the blond boy made it plain how little he thought of the odd, Muggle-raised boy.

"My, my," Draco drawled, "you are in a state. Coming to Eigg hasn't done you any favours at all, has it?"

Harry shot Severus a panicked look. "I had an accident, Draco, that's all. Normally I'm very well. Master Snape's Community is the best thing that's happened to me."

Severus sat in the chair close to Harry's bed and took the young man's hand, giving his support.

Draco sniffed. "Yes, well. It doesn't have much to live up to. You were brought up in the Muggle world, weren't you? You could hardly go back there once you were a trained wizard. But I'd have thought even you could find a decent job somewhere, buy a flat or a little house to settle down, get married –"

Harry's face flamed, but before he could answer, Draco continued: "You know how important it is for wizards to have children."

"This Community exists to continue wizarding values. I'm proud to be part of it," Harry said. He wasn't sure why Draco had visited him, but it looked like he'd done it just to upset Harry and Severus.

"When Harry is well again he'll assist me with the development of new potions, such as the Fertility Potion your father is testing. We are contributing to the continuance of the wizarding world, Mr. Malfoy. With all this emphasis on children, it's a shame your father only managed to produce one." Severus stared at their visitor.

Draco flushed. "He has an heir, Master, which is more than can be said for you."

"I do not have an heir, yet," Severus replied blandly, "but there is time. Do you intend to get married young, to produce several children yourself?"

Draco was looking decidedly uncomfortable now. "I intend to marry, of course. Not yet awhile – like your apprentice I am only just out of Hogwarts. But I think I am likely to have more offspring than he will. Has he ever been with a woman? Do you think he ever will?"

"I'm in the room, you know," Harry said, sounding angry. "Why don't you ask me?"

Draco turned his attention to the pale boy propped up in bed. "Well, I'm asking you."

"And I'm telling you that it's none of your business whether I'm a virgin or not," Harry said, blushing and hating himself for it.

Draco grinned. "I didn't ask that, Potter. You might have shagged dozens of men, though somehow I doubt it. What I asked was if you'd been with a woman. That's the only way to get baby wizards and witches, you know."

Harry ground his teeth. "I think I know that much, Draco. And I repeat: it's none of your business."

Draco drew his own conclusions, which were that Harry wasn't going to be a father anytime soon, and most likely, never. He smiled. "Well, I'll leave you to your recovery. It sounds like you were fortunate to survive." He looked pointedly at Severus and Harry's linked hands and whirled out of the cell.

"I'd better see the nuisance off the premises," Severus said, dropping a kiss on Harry's cheek. "Don't let him worry you."

"Why did he come, Severus?"

"I imagine his father sent him to snoop. I hope he finds the information that you're going to be back to normal very soon interesting."

Harry felt a bit better that Severus had so much confidence in his recovery. He smiled as his master rose and followed the retreating visitor.

Draco could barely manage to be polite to Severus when he caught up with him. He'd seen the obvious closeness between the two and the care Severus lavished on Harry. Scylla's report had made it plain that Severus spent all his time with the young man, neglecting his potions work. Lucius and Draco had found it hard to believe that anything would occupy Severus more than his work, but it looked as if Scylla had been right – he would tell his father that Harry Potter had addled Severus Snape's brain.

The rest of the month passed with Harry getting steadily better, and by the end of the month his improvement accelerated to the point where he spent his days out of bed and finally joined Severus in his workroom. At first he just watched his master work, then started doing simple tasks like preparing ingredients. By the beginning of March he'd started brewing Staywell Juice on his own again.

Scylla hadn't complained any more about her workload. Severus had hoped his return to work and Harry's increasing involvement would cheer her up, but it was hard to discern that from her expression.

By the second week of March everyone was thinking of the spring equinox. Not only did the men perform the boundary rites of the East Stone, but there were the annual fertility rites as well. The days had lengthened and the weather had warmed. Most days the wind blew nearly as fiercely as in winter, but its bitter, knife-like edge was blunted. The seasons were turning. Severus told Harry he could not come on the boundary rites, and Harry got very upset about it.

"Please, Severus. I'm back to normal, you know I am. It's not as hard as the winter ones, the weather's easing. You'll be there to check I'm okay. Although my bottle's not full, there is some essence for the stone, and my power is back to normal again."

"Normal for the average wizard, perhaps. But it's nowhere near your levels before the accident."

Harry frowned. "It doesn't feel that much weaker, Severus, honestly." Severus looked sceptical, so Harry continued. "You haven't noticed because you haven't let me do much work. But when I brewed Worry-wart Bane the other day, I used my power and it felt nearly the same as before. Honestly, Severus."

Severus had made up his mind to leave Harry at the Community this time. But Harry was determined and kept pestering him about it. "Can't you test my magic? You'll see I'm strong enough." Finally, Severus gave in so far as to say, "I'll test your health, both the physical and the magical, on the 14th. That's a week before the rites. If I think you're up to it, I'll let you come with us. But remember spring is the most taxing time of year magically, with equinox rites and fertility rites too." His face showed his belief that Harry wouldn't be strong enough, but Harry stared back, equally convinced he would be.

Reluctantly, Severus had to admit that Harry had been right. When tested, his levels of magic were above those of most of the other members and his physical health had improved greatly. Harry had been walking out to the farmyard and once to the beehives with Richeldis to check their integrity after the long winter. Severus knew Harry had been building up his strength for the rites, determined to make the party. He knew the young man's persistence deserved reward, but he felt so protective of Harry he didn't want him to come on the boundary walk and the fertility rites that took place afterwards were an added complication. He had to admit his reluctance was because he, Severus, wanted to keep Harry safe rather than because Harry couldn't manage it, and his honesty would not allow him to say otherwise to Harry.

"Very well, Harry. You may come on the boundary rites and if you're still feeling up to it, you can join in with the fertility rites too."

Harry smiled and embraced his master, thanking him. The kiss almost made Severus forget his fears.

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Chapter 24: Spring Is The Season Of Fertility by Rakina

Chapter 24: Spring Is The Season Of Fertility

Harry sensed there was something very different about the upcoming rites. He'd been on two boundary walks and knew what they involved, but the spring celebrations were making everyone at the Community excited. The women were involved in the fertility rites; Harry had learned that once the men finished at the East Stone they would join all the younger members of the Community at the vineyard. Nobody said much about what happened there, and Harry remembered how nervous he'd been at his first boundary rite, only to find that the magic practiced was simple and did not require him to be naked. This was probably the same, he told himself, but the palpable air of excitement in the Community as March 21st approached made him wonder. The worry about Scylla niggled at the back of his mind, too. Would Severus need to do something with her?

Scylla seemed to sense the young man's nervousness and walked around with an enigmatic smile on her face which clearly said 'I know what you don't'. Harry made a point of ignoring her, but it didn't stop his inner voice from worrying about the fertility rites. Severus was his… wasn't he? No sooner had he thought this, than he felt guilty. Severus had pledged himself to Harry, had said he loved him, and had never given him cause to worry. It was just stupid to keep on worrying about it. But Harry did worry, as hard as he tried not to.

The weather couldn't have been kinder for the equinox. Everyone got up early and looked out to see a bright, blustery day. The wind wasn't too fierce, though and the boundary walk passed smoothly. After pouring their essence into the gully at the East Stone, the men straightened and turned their faces to the northwest and the vineyard.

When they arrived at the vines, which were showing the green shoots of the new season, Jolyon was met by Abigail who was leading Lightning. The almost-white stallion was prancing in excitement and Abigail was having trouble holding him. "He can smell the mare, I reckon," she said.

"He knows what's coming," Jolyon agreed, taking the lead rope. "Eh up, Lightning, calm down," he said, tugging the rope to hold the stallion. Under Jolyon's strong hold Lightning stood still, pawing at the ground to show his impatience.

A group of women were approaching, singing a song. Scylla, Lydia, Miranda and Richeldis had wreaths of new spring growth around their heads, the bright leaves contrasting with their hair. Lydia was leading a pretty chestnut mare. Lightning nickered a greeting to his approaching mate.

Once the women entered the vineyard they took the mare and stood between two rows of vines. Jolyon led Lightning over to them, Lightning pulling him rather than Jolyon guiding his steps.

"We are all gathered to worship the fertility of spring," Severus announced. "We do homage to the Earth, our Mother, in the age-old dance of joy. The blessings of the Mother be upon this beast." Severus put his hand on Lightning's forehead and the little horse tossed his head up, eager to get on with it.

Severus walked over to the mare and put his hand on her head; she stood quietly and let him do it. "The fertility of the Mother be upon this beast," he said.

Jolyon led Lightning closer and the horse snorted and snuffled, ensuring the mare was ready for him. She was heavily in season and pulled her tail aside, revealing her swollen vulva which twitched as the stallion approached. His penis was hard, extending from its sheath, dripping liquid onto the ground as he positioned himself before jumping on her back. Jolyon grabbed the stallion's probing penis, guiding it to the mare's opening to ease the way and he slid inside her, immediately pumping and squealing his pleasure. The mare looked back over her shoulder and Harry thought it looked as if she was trying to remember the moment.

It didn't take long and when Lightning had obviously shot his essence inside her, he withdrew and jumped down with a snort. The mare kicked out at this, but Lightning was too quick and didn't get caught by her hooves. Harry didn't think this was as erotic as when he'd seen Lightning mounting the gelding over a year ago. Perhaps he was getting used to sex, or perhaps it was because it had all been so quick.

"The beasts bless the Earth and now we will do the same," Severus announced. Harry watched as he passed out small, glass vials to each of them. "In honour of our Mother, the Earth." Severus opened his vial and drank.

The others followed and Harry opened his vial, automatically sniffing and trying to place the ingredients. He saw Severus smirking at him and looked a bit sheepish, he supposed now was not the time for analysis. He drank the liquid which tasted tart. It immediately went to his head. He felt as if his blood had heated up, his heart started pounding as if he'd run a race and his cock stiffened almost instantly. He was still looking at Severus and his eyes widened in surprise. Severus smiled at him, and it was a smile full of promise.

"We dedicate our actions to the Earth; our energy is given to honour the spirit of the season, the surging of the blood and the need for procreation. May the Earth accept our actions and grant us a fertile year."

Harry couldn't take his eyes off Severus. His master had never looked better to him: tall, with his dark hair whipping around his pale cheeks in the spring breeze, his dark eyes staring at Harry as if he wanted to eat him. Harry was happy to volunteer to be Severus' meal and he took a step closer. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Josiah embrace his wife, falling on Lydia with a swiftness that mirrored Lightning's move on the mare. Distracted, he looked around and saw Miranda putting her hand into Jolyon's outstretched hand. George and Richeldis were kissing, their pace slower than the younger folk, but their pleasure in each other obvious.

Harry looked to see what Scylla was doing and saw her watching him, her dark eyes intense with some fierce emotion. It might have been hatred, or jealousy, either of which Harry could accept, but it could be desire, and he didn't want to see that on the witch's face. Argus Filch approached her and stretched out his hand. Scylla's face twisted. She looked at Severus, but Severus was holding out his hand to Harry. With a sneer, Scylla accepted the offer from the squib and almost threw herself on him. Harry gaped.

"Harry, come to me." Severus' voice was deep and urgent and Harry pulled his eyes from the sights surrounding him as his neighbours began to pull each other's clothes off, the aphrodisiac adding to the urgency of the moment. He looked into his master's eyes and saw desire and love, and then he forgot everything else as he stepped forward and Severus started to kiss him.

Harry hadn't been kissed like this since before the accident. Severus seemed to devour him, his kisses urgent with need. The blood pounded in Harry's ears and he answered with similar passion, scrabbling at Severus' cloak. He wanted, he needed and he knew, somehow in his heart he knew, that this time he would get the completion he longed for.

The sounds surrounding him added to his excitement, guttural groans and moans of pleasure, he thought some of them were coming from himself and Severus. His master wandlessly banished their clothes and pulled Harry so close not a millimetre of skin felt left out.

"I want you, Harry. Want to take you, now…"

"Yes, please," Harry moaned, touching Severus wherever he could, feeling that wonderful, hot hardness pressing close. "Please take me, make me yours."

Severus groaned his pleasure at this, his hands urgently touching Harry's cock, sliding back around his buttocks, parting his arse cheeks. He whispered something and Harry felt a slickness back there and gasped as Severus' long finger breached him, slipping into his hole. Harry pushed back, wanting it – wanting his master inside him, not caring that he'd never done it before. His inhibitions and his fears had been washed away by the aphrodisiac, he knew what he wanted and that it would feel good. It would feel good like nothing had ever felt before. It was time.

Severus turned Harry so his back was to his master's chest. Harry was about to protest but Severus was urging him down to the ground. Harry found himself kneeling, his master wrapped around him from behind. Severus' finger returned, then another. He felt his master inside him for the first time, the fingers intimately stroking and widening his channel.

"Harry, I need you so much. I have wanted you since the first time I saw you. How stupid I've been to wait, but now I honour the Mother with this act. Your virginity will power this rite far more than we normally can. Great things will happen this year on Eigg, I feel it."

Harry rocked back on the fingers, he was ready, he knew it. "Please," he cried, sounding mindless with need. He heard his master's words but couldn't concentrate on all that now. All he could feel was his need, his body's desperation for his master's cock. "Please do it now, Severus, please."

"I dedicate our love to this site, to the Earth that we live on, here on Eigg," Severus said in a loud voice as he lined up his cock and thrust inside Harry. "With all the power with which I love you, Harry, I give blessings to our Mother, and pray for her protection and the blessing of our partnership." He added in a whisper, "Say it too."

Harry never knew how he managed to repeat these words; he hardly knew where he was by now. "With all the power with which I love you, Severus, I give blessings to our Mother, and pray for her protection and the blessing of our partnership."

Harry was only vaguely aware of the surrounding noises from the other couples. Even those who'd stayed singly were involved; Danyel's semen was sprayed over the ground as he came after wanking joyously in the midst of the sexual activity. Abigail, no doubt keeping herself for Jamie, cried out as she pleasured herself, back propped against a thick vine. None of it seemed important, it hardly seemed real. All that Harry could think of as Severus pounded into him, grunting with effort and need, was that finally he was his master's true lover. He was no longer a virgin.

Harry's moans of pleasure felt inadequate. He knew there was some discomfort involved with the loss of his virginity, but the tide of desire he was being washed away on ensured his mind could not process it. The potion he had drunk ensured his enthusiastic participation in the rite. He wanted to say so much to Severus at this moment, wanted to tell him how he loved this, being filled with the other man's body joined to his own. He didn't know the words to use even if he could have spoken, and so he cried and wailed a joyous sound that the Earth understood well enough.

Though Harry's eyes were closed, the sensations too intense for the young man to do otherwise, Severus saw the glow that surrounded their joining. The power of sex magic filled the air and the vines seemed to tremble as if they were alive, as if they were breathing. The Community would be blessed this coming year, Severus was sure of it.

Such intensity could not last long. The power was bright but short-lived, it seemed to burn itself away into the soil. Severus climaxed and poured his release into Harry – surely it wasn't that hot normally – and Harry poured his own semen onto the ground beneath them, a libation to their Mother. They were the last to finish as Harry sank down onto the ground, Severus still arched around him. All around them people lay exhausted, oblivious to the fact they were lying on the earth on a cool March evening, most of them naked, all of them basking in the afterglow of intense orgasms.

Severus and Harry lay there in the midst of them, still holding each other close as Severus' cock slipped from inside Harry. Severus allowed himself a moment of stillness, of realisation that it had really happened. He'd taken Harry's virginity in a ritual of power and he was aware of the responsibility he now had for the young man. He also held responsibility for his Community, so he reluctantly let Harry go and got to his feet, summoning his robes.

"We are done, my friends. Let us go back to our home. The Earth has accepted our offerings for the coming year."

The others stood, the older ones getting to their feet more slowly. Clothes were found and put on. Severus waited for them, standing with Harry by his side. When they were all ready, he led his Community back to the buildings, where Miranda had left a huge stew warming in the oven. There was little conversation. The aphrodisiac, like the magic, had been quick and fierce and had worn off leaving the participants feeling rather drained. Harry was happy to lean on Severus' proffered arm; he was exhausted and knew Severus would think it was because of his convalescence, but Harry thought he was entitled to be tired after the boundary rites and losing his virginity in such an intense way. Despite his tiredness he felt like he was walking on a carpet of air, treading over the earth as if in a dream. Harry was the one Severus wanted. No one else.

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Chapter 25: At Easter by Rakina

Chapter 25: At Easter

Easter fell in the week following the equinox. Harry decided it was time to write to Neville (he was dreadful as a correspondent, often forgetting to write) and send him an Easter card which he'd made. Normally he corresponded via the charmed journals he'd bought at Christmas time, but the card would need sending by conventional means. He sat at breakfast with his card lying next to his plate; he'd take it to Hedwig after breakfast.

Master Snape wasn't at the table yet; he was probably preparing their day's lesson, so Scylla was taking the opportunity to air her views.

"The men do the boundary rites all year, I think it would be better if the women alone did the fertility rites in spring. After all, it's the women who do the hard work in the vineyard, who perform the magic that makes the vines crop so well, and then along come the men and claim to fertilise the land by shagging up there. If it's just the sexual energy that's needed, we women could do that without their help."

Miranda was looking at her incredulously. "Well, we could. But I for one think the fertility rites work more powerfully if there's proper sex involved."

"Proper? What on Earth do you mean by that?" Scylla scoffed.

"Well, with a man –"

"For Merlin's sake, what we're doing up there is female magic – Earth magic. Men are mere props, tools to be used. They're not even necessary. The power of the Mother is old magic, women's magic."

"The Mother took a powerful lover each year to fertilise her. I thought you knew that." Severus' deep voice came from the doorway as he entered the dining room and made for his chair. "The male element is needed to fertilise the land and the seed spilled there, whether onto the ground or into another person, helps guarantee a fertile year for us. The Mother's magic is powerful, primal. Without it there would be no births on Eigg this coming year, whether of people, animals, or plants. Nothing would be able to reproduce. She needs a male lover to do it."

"It could be done as female magic," Scylla disagreed. "It was done that way in many parts of the world."

"Indeed. But here on Eigg, in Celtic times, it was a joining of male and female. That is the basic rite we use. And I say that is how it will stay, both men and women participating at the equinox."

Scylla knew when to give up. Master Snape had spoken, and that was the end of it, but Harry could see she still disagreed. He wondered if any of the other witches felt that way – after all he and Severus had been together, that was not a joining of male and female. Miranda certainly didn't want to do without the men present, and he doubted Lydia did, either, for she had coupled with her husband at the rites. Abigail had been alone, but probably in deference to Jamie's absence. But Scylla had seemed keen enough on the shagging, as she put it, at the time. Harry wondered if the Muggle man might be able to take part in their rites one day, after all, Argus Filch had, and he was a squib. It seemed as if sex magic could occur with just one magical partner.

Harry finished his breakfast.

"Please, Master Snape, may I take a letter to my owl before I join you in the workroom?"

"By all means, Harry. I have not finished breakfast yet; I arrived late because I was preparing the potions workroom first. Come along when you've sent your letter."

"Thank you, Master." Harry bowed deferentially and left.

Harry walked to the farmyard and into the barn where the owls roosted. Hedwig was not on her usual perch and he scanned the rafters to find her. He frowned in perplexity when he caught sight of two snowy-white birds huddled side by side at the back of the barn, sheltered from the doorway. "Hedwig? Which one are you? And who is that you've found?"

Footsteps crunched over the brick floor of the barn and Harry turned to see Jolyon standing smiling at him. "She's got a friend, Harry. That owl came in with a letter from somewhere farther north; my guess would be Durmstrang school. That was four days ago and the thing is, he never left. Seems he's taken to your Hedwig. They'll have lost a post owl, but he's showing no signs of going back, even though I told him he should. He just clicks his beak when I say anything."

"Oh. Well, Hedwig looks happy enough with him. It's nice for her to see another snowy owl; they're very rare post owls. I don't think she's ever spent time with one before. But how do you know he's a boy? They look the same to me."

Jolyon chuckled. "Well, it's the way he's all protective of her, like. And the way he looks at her."

Harry laughed. "You mean he's her boyfriend? Oh, that's so sweet. Poor Hedwig hasn't had a boyfriend before." Harry held up the envelope he was carrying. "Come on, girl. I've a letter to take to Hogwarts. You'll be back with your man soon."

Hedwig did not move. She stared at Harry and then turned her head to look at the big white owl sitting next to her. The male owl clicked his beak and Hedwig closed her eyes.

"Hedwig?"

"I don't think she's volunteering, Harry," Jolyon said. "Maybe she's too busy with her lover. Why don't you use Stryx?"

Harry felt disappointed. Hedwig had never refused him before. It was ridiculous to feel that way; all creatures needed time out, even owls. He turned towards the barn owl Jolyon was pointing to, perched on the central beam. "Stryx, would you take a letter to Hogwarts for me?"

The barn owl flew straight down to him and stuck out an obliging leg. "Thank you," Harry said, fixing the letter to it. "It's for Neville Longbottom at Hogwarts. Okay?"

Apparently it was okay, because Stryx stretched his wings and flew off. He was smaller than Hedwig, but almost as pale. Harry hoped he'd manage the journey all right.

"He'll be fine, he's a strong, young owl," Jolyon said, seeing Harry's worried look as Stryx flew off. "It's not that far to Hogwarts."

Harry supposed it wasn't – it was still in Scotland. But Hedwig had made heavy weather of the journey lately and now she didn't want to go at all. Harry decided to change the subject. He'd heard something about Jolyon's terrible punishment, and though he shouldn't feel guilty about it, he did. "How are you now, Mr Tadcaster?"

The farmer's hand came down on Harry's shoulder in a reassuring manner. "Fine, Harry. I was in pain for a while, but it was no more than I deserved. I wanted to tell you – to have a chance to speak to you alone – that I'm sorry, Harry. You were nearly killed, and it was my fault. No one else's."

Harry opened his mouth to protest that it had been his choice to go alone, but Jolyon forestalled him. "No, Harry. The fence was my responsibility, and the decision to let you go alone was mine too. Whichever way you look at it, the error was all mine. Now, I've paid, and it was what I deserved. So forget it, if you can."

Harry nodded. "But I don't blame you, Jolyon, please understand that. Accidents happen, and that's all it was, an accident. I don't even remember falling." Seeing Jolyon was still looking upset, Harry changed the subject again. "Scylla was a bit out of line at breakfast time, didn't you think?"

Jolyon snorted. "She's often out on a limb, that one. I know she's not a fan of male magic; very proud of the women's rites she is, and doesn't think they get enough credit. She'd do away with the male magic if she was in charge, I reckon. Which is stupid. The boundary rites are important, and I still think what we do at the vines makes it all grow better in the year to come. If you ask me, she just wants to be number one in everything."

Harry nodded; he couldn't help but agree with that. But there was only one number one on Eigg – his master.

Severus had a session set up for them when Harry arrived back in the workroom. Harry was to learn how to tailor a potion to an individual recipient. First, they were to analyse the recipient by interviewing them, finding out likes and dislikes, observing the personality of the person. Potions acted on the principle of the four humours of the body – melancholic, phlegmatic, sanguine and choleric, so they worked better tailored to the individual's makeup. Muggles often used one drug for all recipients, but Severus explained that people were far more complex and didn't come in standard types. Muggles referred to 'side effects' which were a sign that the average medicine didn't work with an individual it wasn't tailored to. The best potions were personalised.

Severus showed Harry how a common recipe – for a hangover cure – was altered for each of the four main personality types, then left Harry to brew the variants. Then he was to write out his own variants on a pain relief potion.

"While you work I will be reading this book which I discovered in the Used Books section of Flourish & Blotts. There is an interesting section on backfired charms and curses. If you need anything, I'll be here, just ask."

"I think my work's clear to me, Master, but thank you."

Harry worked quietly and quickly and it didn't seem long until the lunchtime bell rang. Severus put his book down reluctantly. He had found the chapters fascinating, and an idea was forming in his mind – just a bit more reading and he'd be able to speak to Harry about it.

They spoke little at lunch. Scylla was still reserved, as she seemed to be most of the time lately, especially in Severus' presence. Severus was deep in thought and so Harry, when he spoke, chatted with Abigail. Once back in the workroom, Harry was soon immersed in his trial brewing. As he was finishing a sample and bottling it, Severus interrupted him.

"Have you finished the brewing for today?"

"Yes, Master. I just have to write up my versions of pain relief potion."

"Leave that for now, and come and sit with me. I have something I want to talk to you about."

Harry cleaned up his workstation and followed his master, who was carrying the book he'd been reading. Scylla watched them go but said nothing, concentrating on the batch of Worry-wart Bane she was brewing. Severus led them to the private sitting room, asking Miranda for tea to be brought to them. Once served, he started to talk.

"I want to talk to you about the book I was studying."

"The one about failed curses?"

"Yes. The book is old and I'd never heard of it before. It's called Accidental Damage by Agrippa Solent, published in 1868. Most of the spells covered are still in use, but some are now classified as Dark. A few were considered Dark, even then. I am quite surprised that Flourish & Blotts had it displayed so openly."

"I don't think many people would have picked it up," Harry said, grinning. The book was a very dingy, leather-bound volume, its title rubbed away and its pages of different sizes, some of which were sticking out untidily.

"More fool them, then. 'Never judge a book by its cover' is a truism. This book describes botched spells and curses in great detail, including the visible clues that show which curse is involved. After all, the victims do not always know what caused their disfigurements."

Harry winced at the word 'disfigurement'. "Are you talking about my scar, Severus?"

"I am indeed. I have never seen such a distinctive curse scar. I know it hurts you at times and I wondered if I could trace its origin. This book," he patted the leather cover approvingly, "has done just that, I believe."

Harry didn't know what to say. He wanted to know about his scar, but the way Severus was talking about Dark magic made him nervous. When Harry said nothing, Severus continued.

"This scar is the rarest thing imaginable: the result of a failed Horcrux creation spell. It's the only time anything resembling a lightning-bolt scar is created."

Harry looked confused. "Horcrux creation spell? What's a Horcrux and why would you want to create one?"

Severus looked grim. "A Horcrux is a piece of a person's soul captured in a receptacle of some kind. A Dark wizard creates a Horcrux by fragmenting their soul, which is done by the act of murder, and then enclosing the soul fragment in an object. This means that if the wizard is killed he can live on, by means of his Horcrux being returned either to his original body soon after death, or to another body. It is the Darkest magic and until now I had believed, along with the rest of the Wizarding world, that it had not been attempted in centuries."

Harry got paler as Severus continued his explanation.

"Not only does this mean that someone, a very powerful, Dark wizard at that, is trying to ensure their immortality, but I believe it has special meaning for us here on Eigg."

"Who could be doing such a terrible thing?" Harry sounded scared now. His stomach felt as if it had jumped up into his throat. This was not good – could not be in any sense good.

"There is only one candidate, I'm fairly sure of it. But I will come to that in a moment. First, read the legend of The Blessèd Boy again." Severus pointed to the legend, a framed copy of which hung on the wall of all the Community's rooms. The very legend that Lucius Malfoy had wanted to remove from the Community members' cells.

Harry got up, went across to the frame and read the verse again. He was very familiar with it.

"Pay particular attention to the fourth verse," Severus said.

The Legend of the Blessèd Boy

A virgin with eyes as green as the grass

With hair as dark as the peat in the earth

Is blessed with the strength of the Old Ones who passed,

And the power to bring children to birth.

Blessed is he who can win such a prize

Whose bed can be filled with such joy!

Warmed by the glance of the greenest of eyes

The sweet innocence of this blessèd boy.

The young man will come o'er the sea 'til he meet

His Destined One, with fragmented heart.

The strength of their bond will keep evil away

And the bound ones no more be apart.

On the Island of Eigg when the Blessèd Boy stays

All Britain once more will be whole

Then there'll be no power in cruel Dark ways

And evil will lose its last soul.

A bloodline of power, of Light and of joy

Will proceed from the pairing here sealed

For never was seen such a wondrous young boy

And his Destined One, whose heart he has healed.

"Evil will lose its last soul… is that what you want me to see?"

"I think that refers to a Horcrux, Harry. I think the evil referred to is the Dark sorcerer who tried to create a Horcrux."

"Using me?" Harry's voice was faint.

"I'm sure he wasn't trying to use you. But the failure of the curse resulted in a backlash which left you with that scar."

Harry sat down; he was feeling a bit faint. His face had paled to the colour of old parchment. "He needed to murder someone…"

"Yes."

"Could it have been my parents that he killed?" Harry's voice cracked and he covered his face with his hands. "I never really believed my aunt and uncle's story about how they died in a gas explosion."

"I don't know, Harry." Severus put his arms around Harry and Harry leaned into the comfort. Severus didn't know if Harry's parents had been killed in some evil rite, but it was certainly possible. After a while, Harry pushed away again and looked at his husband with clear eyes. He'd moved on.

"You think the legend refers to us, don't you?" Harry said. Now he thought about it, an awful lot of it seemed to refer to him.

"Yes. I've thought this for some time. This book has reinforced the belief. You are clearly the 'virgin with eyes as green as the grass'. Or at least you were." Severus couldn't help a smirk at this point.

"And the power it talks of?"

"You are powerful, that is sure."

Severus looked a little odd to Harry's mind, so he asked again. "But what is the 'strength of the Old Ones who passed'?"

"I'm not sure," Severus said. "Time will tell, no doubt. Not all is plain to me yet, but this clue about your scar and its origin is just another piece of the puzzle. The wizard, the evil one it refers to, is called Voldemort. He is the real power behind the Pureblood Alliance. He would use any means to avoid death, I'm sure, and at some point he must have come into contact with you while you were still very young. I regret to say my own part in the legend is less flattering than yours. I believe I am the one living on the island, with the 'fragmented heart'."

"So you have a Horcrux too!"

Severus grimaced. "No, Harry. Heart, not soul. I would never do such a thing as try to preserve my life by taking somebody else's. But my heart… was damaged. I could not trust; could not interact in normal society, because of the damage I did to myself by joining Voldemort's group when I was younger. I… was foolish."

Harry could see that Severus was reluctant talking about this, but he sensed his master hadn't finished, so he waited quietly.

"When I was a young man, I fell in love. I was encouraged to do so – seduced, if you will – by a man a little older than me. He was a powerful wizard, handsome, rich, with an attractive personality when he wanted to be that way. He wanted to draw me into the service of his group, his secret master. I was useful to them because of my skills. I knew a great deal about all magic, not just potions. I have good research skills and they had uses for them. The group I joined was as idealistic as I was about the continuation of Wizarding traditions, the preservation of our culture. I thought they were doing no more than encouraging us to maintain our lifestyle. I was a naïve fool.

"Yes, they wanted those things. But their leader, the most powerful wizard for many years, wanted more for himself than for the good of others. He sought power and immortality. His name, as I said before, is Lord Voldemort. The man who led me to him was Lucius Malfoy."

Harry gasped. That explained why Severus had been so involved with Malfoy, had been supported by the man's money. "You… love… Lucius Malfoy?"

Severus winced. "No. I don't know if I truly loved him then, twenty years ago. My youthful feelings were strong, full of hope and passion. But he took them and warped them to his own ends. He was not interested in me so much as in advancement with his master. I certainly do not love him now. In fact, I can truthfully say I hate him for what he led me to become.

"My memories of that time are hazy, deliberately so. I have closed off sections of my memory, built walls to keep myself sane. Whatever lies behind those walls I have no wish to revisit. I know the scars on my body came from that time, and I know my mind was even worse affected.

"Until recently, I had no wish to get really close to people. I retreated here, with other like-minded folk who wished to leave the mainland and mainstream Wizarding society. It was all I could stand to do. You could say I ran away."

Harry didn't know what to say. "Severus, it is not shameful to shun evil. You came here to escape their influence."

Severus nodded. "I did. I came here when I found the traditions of this place. This was what I wanted to rebuild, to bring back to the Wizarding world. Merlin's legacy is free of the taint that Voldemort brought to our world. I admit I took their money, intending to use it for good for once, but I have gradually freed us from their influence. We can go on and bring the good things from that tradition back to our world. We can have a positive influence to counter Voldemort's evil."

"The verse you told me to take note of… well, just before that. Severus, it sort of implies that we should be bonded."

Severus looked up, startled out of his sad thoughts by Harry. "You would want to bond with me? I do not deserve that."

"Severus, that's what the verse says. That's part of my job, if you like."

Severus shook his head.

"Look at it! Go and read it! It's obvious." Harry jumped up and pulled Severus' arm, dragging him over to the text.

Severus knew the verse by heart, but he couldn't resist Harry's enthusiasm. Harry poked his finger at the verses reading: The strength of their bond will keep evil away, And the bound ones no more be apart. Severus stared at it.

"You can't take some of the legend and ignore that bit. See… we're to be bonded." Harry sounded ecstatic.

Severus looked into Harry's joy-filled face and felt his heart lurch. He didn't deserve this, but here it was. "Yes… yes, you are right."

"Then let's do it, let's make this work. We need to do this for the evil to be destroyed; this bonding bit is written first."

Severus could only nod, Harry was right. Harry threw his arms around Severus and kissed him, and Severus forgot his unworthiness.

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Chapter 26: Hearts And Souls, Forever by Rakina

Chapter 26: Hearts And Souls, Forever

At breakfast next morning Severus announced his intention to bond with Harry, setting a date for the 16th April. Scylla's gasp was noticeable, but she said nothing. Severus told the entire Community he wanted them all to be witnesses at the ceremony, which would take place in the herb garden; it would look nice this time of year with the spring growth getting underway and was easy to get to. Severus asked George to be his Helper and told Harry to choose his own – it was to be a long-standing male friend. Harry knew he would have to ask Neville and hoped his school friend would be willing. Miranda immediately started planning the wedding food and chatting about the cake with Richeldis and Lydia.

Abigail jumped up and hugged Harry, hard. "I'm so happy for you, Harry. For both of you. I know he loves you and you make him so happy."

The Community was energised by the good news. Their Master was settling down at last, and everyone seemed happy with his choice. Harry felt Scylla's eyes on him, and although she wasn't obvious, he knew she was the only one who wasn't glad about it. But with everyone else excited and pleased, constantly asking him about robes and forms of ceremony – which Harry couldn't answer because Severus hadn't spoken about them yet – it was possible to ignore the witch.

Harry asked Severus for leave to write to Neville. Severus said he could sort that out before they started work that day, so Harry went back to his cell after breakfast. He wrote a quick, excited note to Neville, asking if he could have time off to help with Harry's bonding, then he headed out to the farmyard to find an owl.

"Hedwig?" he called. The snowy owl had moved again. She wasn't perched on any of the beams, even the one off to the side where she'd sat alone with her mate. He was a bit worried that they'd flown away together. Surely Hedwig wouldn't leave him after all these years? "Hedwig!"

A squawk and much beak-clicking sounded from one dim corner of the barn. Harry walked over and found a niche in the wall occupied by a higgledy-piggledy nest and Hedwig sitting on top of it. She looked like a queen on a throne, looking imperiously down at him.

"Hedwig! You… you've got a nest." Harry stated the obvious but he couldn't help it. "Have you got any eggs?"

Hedwig did not reply, just looked calmly at him with her large, amber eyes. Harry wondered if she'd get up and let him have a look, but just then the soft sweep of wings passed over his head and the other snowy owl flew up to Hedwig, perching on the end of the ledge. He looked rather precarious, but he dropped the mouse that was dangling from his beak and Hedwig snatched it up and swallowed it. She hooted approvingly and clicked her beak at her mate. He hooted back, shifted from leg to leg and preened his feathers to demonstrate what an excellent mate he was – a handsome bird and a mighty hunter as well.

Hedwig ruffled her feathers back at him and swivelled her head towards Harry as if checking he was still there. Then, she stood up, stretched her wings, and left. Harry quickly cast a Levitating charm and rose up to peer into the nest before the male owl could sit on it. Three large, white eggs clustered in the centre of the twiggy bed. Harry cried out 'Yay!' in pleasure, before returning to the ground. The male had been peering suspiciously at the human and Harry didn't want to disturb him too much. The snowy owl settled on the eggs, keeping them warm while Hedwig had some time out of the nest.

"You're a good dad," Harry told him. Then he went to find Stryx and send his letter to Neville.

When he got back to the Potions rooms, Severus was waiting. "We have things to sort out for our bonding, Harry," he said. "Diagon Alley is the best place to go. There are shops in Hogsmeade, but there's more choice in London. Would you like to go today and get started?"

Would he? "I'd love to, Severus. I'm so happy." Harry couldn't resist and threw his arms around Severus, kissing him joyously.

Severus, who never encouraged such behaviour in the Potions rooms, couldn't resist and responded with a loving kiss. He was still numb, hardly believing this was really happening; that his life was changing so much. He felt so different inside – calmer, warmer, with a feeling that must be pure happiness – and he couldn't seem to get used to it.

Severus spoke to Scylla on the way out, leaving her in charge of the Potions rooms. He told Miranda they wouldn't be back until dinner, and they Apparated to the main Apparition point in Diagon Alley.

They spent the rest of the morning in Madam Malkin's ordering bonding robes. These were traditional – and who should be more traditional than the Master of the Community? Plain, tight leggings were worn under a mid-thigh length fur-trimmed tunic. It had elbow-length sleeves and a tight, high-necked, white silk shirt was worn underneath. The cuffs were fastened with silver buttons. Severus' tunic was of thick, embroidered damask, dark green with silver patterning. Harry chose dark blue – almost black – with blood-red patterns.

Finally, both men had to go to the cobblers to be fitted for ankle-length leather boots.

"I'm going to feel like Robin Hood or something," Harry grumbled good-naturedly.

Severus laughed. "You'll look lovely. Like a fairy prince!" Daringly, Harry mock-punched him for that.

They headed to The Copper Kettle for lunch. Once they'd ordered, they sat and waited. Harry looked excitedly around the tea rooms. Everything about today was wonderful; he was running on pure adrenalin at the thought of his bonding.

Severus could see Harry's mood and picked up a lot of his excitement. He wouldn't openly admit it, but the thought of being bonded was a huge thing – something he'd thought would never happen to him. He loved Harry and would have wanted this above everything, but it wasn't until Harry convinced him it was meant to be because of the legend that he would have presumed to ask Harry to be his husband. He reached across the table and took Harry's hands. "You make me very happy, Harry. I will never forget how lucky I am to have you as my husband."

Harry blushed and smiled back. "It just feels so right, Severus."

"I have some old, family bonding rings we can use. Have you decided on your Helper?"

"Yes, I wrote to Neville. I hope to get a reply tomorrow or the day after."

"Good. A traditional bonding specifies little beyond clothing, rings and the form of ceremony. As we are following the prompting of Merlin's prophecy, I think we should use the simplest form of bonding still available, which dates from his time."

"Yes, of course. That makes sense," Harry agreed.

"For the ceremony the bindings are conjured by our Helpers. I will get George to show your friend how to do that when he arrives. It is simple enough. All that is needed is the incantation and the bindings and spell should occur automatically. Then we make our vows to each other and the bindings should disappear, seeming to sink into our bodies. We will then be bound body and soul."

Harry nodded. It was very serious and he realised just how much Severus was giving him. "Thank you," he said.

"For what, Harry?"

"For being there, for inviting me to Eigg, for giving yourself to me."

"It is I who should be thanking you, Harry. I am not worthy. My past-"

"-is dead. And will be even more so once we are bonded. The legend says so."

Severus realised that Harry believed the legend, line for line. Although Severus still didn't understand all of the verses, and Harry couldn't either, Harry was happy to trust his future to the words of Merlin. And why wouldn't he? What better guide to their lives could there be?

"The only thing that worries me-" Harry began. Severus looked at him, dreading hearing something that might change Harry's mind even now. "-is that when you marry me, you'll lose your chance to get an heir. I know how important it is to families, I heard what Lucius Malfoy had to say. And you'll be losing your chance by marrying a man."

"I won't be losing anything, Harry. I would never marry a witch. I could not father an heir." Severus' voice sounded clipped as if he didn't want to talk about this any more.

Harry frowned, he felt unable just to leave it there. "I know you prefer men, Severus. But you could marry a witch. Unless… Oh! Are you infertile?" Now Harry looked horribly embarrassed.

"Not that I know of, Harry. I'd have no way of telling, though. I do not only prefer men, I am incapable of sleeping with a woman. I… cannot… perform with a woman."

Harry squeezed Severus' hands, feeling awful for bringing the subject up now and wondering what dreadful scene had resulted in Severus' realisation that he couldn't have sex with a woman. But he'd felt bad about Severus missing out on his chance for an heir by marrying Harry. But if there wasn't a chance in the first place, then Harry didn't have to worry.

"And it works both ways, Harry. You will not have an heir either. You are giving up a great deal to marry me."

Harry shook his head. "I was brought up with Muggles, Severus. It doesn't matter quite as much to them, and my aunt and uncle wouldn't have wanted me to have children anyway. So I never considered it. Though I do like children, and would have taken care not to treat them the way I was brought up."

Severus smiled. "You would be a wonderful father, I'm sure of it. And now you've made me feel guilty!"

"Oh, it's all silly! We're neither of us going to be fathers and we've never worried about it before. Let's just concentrate on the bonding." Harry picked up one of the catalogues from the shoe shop and started reading.

Later, they returned to Eigg. Everything was ordered and they could collect the finished robes and boots next week.

Danyel rushed over to them. "Harry, can I be your Helper? Can I?"

Harry's face showed his embarrassment, but he was saved by Jolyon. "Now, Danyel, I've told you, Harry's Helper has got to have known him for a long while."

Harry sighed at Jolyon's provision of an excuse. "I'm sorry, Danyel. I had to ask my schoolfriend, Neville, because I've known him for eight years now. I'd love to have been able to ask you, but I've not been living here a whole year yet."

Danyel's face fell and he was obviously struggling not to cry. He'd been more openly excited by the announcement than Harry and Severus themselves.

"Perhaps you can help with the decorations?" Harry said. "It would be nice to have some, don't you think?"

Danyel looked at his dad. "Can I do that, Da'? I'm good with making wreaths and garlands."

Jolyon smiled at his son and at Harry. "That would be good, Danyel. Thank you, Harry."

Harry smiled and gave Danyel a hug. He hated upsetting the simple boy, but with a little thought it was usually possible to make him happy again.

On the morning of the bonding Harry woke up ridiculously early. He lit his lamp, paced his cell a while, until he gave up and headed for the shower. He'd never sleep now, he was much too excited. His stomach was cramping and churning with nerves and he felt quite queasy. He knew he wouldn't be sick – he hadn't had breakfast yet, and Miranda wouldn't even start preparing it until seven o'clock.

Harry felt a bit better when he emerged from a hot shower; the hot water seemed to have eased his stomach cramps. Back in his room he wondered whether to put his wedding robes on, but settled on staying in a dressing robe and heading to the kitchen to make some tea. He felt more jittery than he had at Christmas. He wondered if Severus was awake yet. And wasn't it supposed to be bad luck to see him beforehand? Or was that just a Muggle superstition?

Harry sat at the refectory table drinking his tea and trying to sit still. His stomach clenched when the hot liquid settled inside and he tried to quell it. Why was he so nervous? It was only the day that would determine the rest of his life, that's all. Once bonded to Severus, Harry knew he'd be staying on Eigg forever. It would be his home and nobody could ever suggest he shouldn't be here. Scylla's disapproval of him had always left him wondering if he really should be Severus' apprentice, if the others really thought he belonged here. After today, there would be no doubt left in Harry's mind.

At six-thirty Miranda came in.

"You're up early, Harry. Couldn't sleep?"

"I'm really nervous," Harry admitted.

Miranda came and gave him a hug. "Of course you are. Nervous as a bridegroom, aren't you?" She chuckled and started pulling out pots and pans and preparing breakfast. "I'm excited myself, that's why I'm starting early. A lot of the food is already prepared, but it will take a while to set it out and decorate the table. It'll take me a while to make the best of myself, too, and I don't want to miss the ceremony! Is your friend prepared?"

"I think so. He was as nervous as I was when he arrived yesterday. But he knows what he's got to do."

At that, as if summoned, Neville walked into the kitchen. Harry grinned at him. "You still look nervous, Nev."

"So do you for that matter," Neville grinned. "It's a big day, isn't it?"

"Indeed it is," Miranda said. "Nothing so romantic as a wedding, is there?"

Harry wondered how romantic his master was. Severe, proud, passionate, yes he was all of those… but romantic? The two young men helped Miranda before being the first to sit down and start breakfast. Harry hoped the food would calm his rebellious stomach.

"I feel a bit queasy," he admitted to Neville.

"So do I," Neville laughed. "I never thought I'd be as nervous as you, Harry. It's not me that's getting married."

Severus walked in. He was wearing his everyday, dark robes. He helped himself to food then sat at the head of the table, but he said nothing. Harry peered at him, trying to judge his mood, and came to the startling conclusion that Severus was nervous too. Harry reckoned he wasn't talking because he didn't want to give himself away. Seeing Severus' nerves made Harry feel better all of a sudden, and he resumed chatting with Neville and Abigail too, when she arrived.

After breakfast they went to get dressed in their formal robes. Everyone would wear their best. The bonding would take place at noon when the sun was at its zenith and the gathering of positive power at its strongest. All the guests would cast blessings on the couple, so everyone had a role to play, however minor. Argus could not use magic, but he had appointed himself in control of the confetti which he'd bought in Mallaig and hoped Master Snape would not hex him when he threw it.

Harry looked critically at himself in the mirror but could only see a small section of his body at a time. It was fine for everyday when he just wanted to check his hair or something, but he needed a full-length one today. He took out his wand, removed the mirror from above the washbasin and reshaped it until it was long enough to show his whole body. He levitated it over to stand against the stone wall.

Five minutes of peering later and he thought he looked okay. His hair remained unruly, and he knew from long experience it was doomed to stay that way. But his formal bonding robes looked remarkably fine. They were so different from everyday Wizarding fashions and Harry had been nervous to try them on, but they did look wonderful. He strode up and down in front of the mirror, admiring the way the tight trousers showed the shape of his legs, revealed by the short tunic. The embroidered tunic looked very rich and Harry felt like a prince. His ankle-length leather boots creaked a little and Harry cast a silencing charm on them. He hadn't had chance to wear them in. Aunt Petunia had always said that squeaky shoes were a sign you hadn't paid for them. Remembering her then gave him a brief pang of distress that he had no family to attend the bonding. He'd written them a note but had received no reply. He hadn't really expected one, but it still hurt a bit. After all, his aunt was his mother's sister; she should have had some feeling for him.

Deliberately shrugging off the negative thoughts, Harry went back to admiring his reflection. There was a knock at the door and Neville came in.

"D'you want any help getting dressed? Oh – you've already done it. You look great, Harry. Like a medieval prince!"

Harry laughed. "Severus said I would look like a fairy prince and I wasn't too sure about that. But you're right; I look like Henry the Fifth or something."

Neville was wearing very formal robes in a muddy green. "Are those your Guild of Herbologists robes?"

"Yeah. They're the smartest I've got." Neville tried, but failed, to hide his pride. The robes had an embroidered badge showing his status as an Associate Member of the Guild.

"You look great. I wonder what Severus will look like?"

As Harry walked into the circle of people standing waiting for him in the Herb garden, he found out. Severus looked incredible. More colourful than Harry had ever seen him, and his long, slender legs encased in the dark, tight leggings made Harry stare. His eyes travelled up and he took in the damask tunic, the tight silk shirt underneath and finally up to Severus' face. His hair was beautifully clean and combed straight and Severus' dark eyes were fixed on Harry, staring back just as intently.

The garden was decked with magical decorations – ribbons, lights, sweet-scented flowers and branches, intertwined plants in wreaths and garlands. Neville had helped Danyel create the garlands of wildflowers and evergreens that ringed each bridegroom's head – flowers for freshness and new life, evergreens for permanence.

Harry looked around the circle of his fellow Community members who were all smiling. They had their best robes on and everyone looked very different from their workaday selves. An air of happy excitement filled the Herb garden.

Right on time, with a crack of Apparition, a Ministry wizard appeared at the edge of the circle. He came forward to the two men dressed in bonding robes and said, "Master Snape? Harry Potter? I am Theophilus Reason, Ministry Registrar, I will perform the bonding and file the official reports."

Severus shook hands with the rather officious wizard, who was middle-aged and projected an air of efficiency. Theophilus took out a book and opened it, and without further ado he began the ceremony.

"Dear friends, we are present to witness that most happy of events, a bonding. The couple have chosen to use the simple, ancient form of the Rites of Merlin.

"Severus Snape, you come to be bonded to Harry Potter. Place your wand hand on the Book of Merlin."

Severus placed his right hand onto the nearest page of the open book, waiting.

"Harry Potter, you come to be bonded to Severus Snape. Place your wand hand on the Book of Merlin."

Harry added his right hand to the other page.

"Helpers, please bind this couple."

George Watson stepped forward on Severus' side, raised his wand and chanted a sing-song incantation. The language was not Latin; Harry guessed it was a Celtic language of some kind, perhaps the very words spoken by Merlin himself. As the incantation finished, silvery ropes emerged from his wand and wrapped themselves around Severus' forearm and wrist.

Neville stepped forward, wand extended. Harry noticed it shook a little, but Neville had been practicing and he spoke the same incantation clearly; the silvery bonds wrapped themselves around Harry's arm.

"Severus, Harry, if you wish to be bonded, tied for the rest of your lives, clasp hands."

Severus waited for Harry to move. He wanted Harry forever, but he also wanted Harry to be the one to make the final choice. Harry didn't disappoint him; he quickly clasped Severus' hand. As their hands joined the silvery bonds came to life, moving down their arms, over their wrists and around the clasped hands. The men found themselves tied tightly.

Theophilus tapped his wand on the joined hands. "If there is love between you, this bond will be true."

As if prompted, the silvery bonds began to fade; they looked as if they were sinking into the couple's hands. Harry watched, fascinated. Their joined hands seemed to get warmer. Harry's stomach chose this moment to cramp again, making him feel unsettled. He cursed his nerves, though really he thought he had settled them by now.

"The bond has formed and is true. You may put your rings on now."

George held out the ring box. Severus let go of Harry's hand and took one of the plain, silver bands and slipped it onto Harry's left ring finger. He put the other on his own hand.

"Severus Snape and Harry Potter, you are joined, hearts and souls, forever. Be kind and loving, patient and true to each other, as the bond will direct you. Congratulations to you both." Theophilus stepped back and shut his book with a snap.

Severus smiled at his husband, then gathered Harry into his arms and kissed him. The Community all cheered and Argus took his life in his hands and threw the confetti. The blessing spells of the onlookers showered down onto the two wizards in a rain of multi-coloured spell light.

Severus never noticed any of it; he was concentrating on his bond with Harry, intent on claiming his husband.

The Daily Prophet Official Announcements page for 17th April 1999:

The bonding of Severus Snape, 41, Founder and Master of Master Snape's Community, Isle of Eigg, Scotland to Harry Potter, 18, Potions Apprentice of the same address, took place yesterday. The rites used were the ancient Rites of Merlin, resulting in a full life and soul bond.

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Chapter 27: The Parting Of The Ways by Rakina

Chapter 27: The Parting of the Ways

As the month of April ended the Community's evening meal was disrupted by an announcement from Scylla. She had eaten very little and now she put her knife and fork down with a deliberate clatter, before drawing a letter out of her robes. She held it in front of her like a shield while she made her announcement.

"Master Snape, I have made the decision to leave the Community. I have thought long and hard about this, but I believe the Community has changed. I'm afraid I no longer agree with the way it is working. I will pack up and leave tomorrow."

Everybody was shocked by the suddenness of this and the abruptness of Scylla's speech. Most folk had noticed the witch's less than enthusiastic response to Harry but had assumed she'd settle down and accept it after a while. To leave now seemed a drastic decision.

"This letter," Scylla continued, holding it out to Severus, "is from the Pureblood Alliance. As you know, I am a supporter of their views. This is another reason that I have chosen to leave at this time." She glanced meaningfully at Abigail.

Severus looked at the envelope but made no move to take it from her. Annoyed, Scylla placed it in front of his place setting, then stood and swept out of the dining room.

Once she'd gone, everyone seemed able to breathe again and they all started talking at once. Severus was still staring thoughtfully at the letter. Harry felt stunned, wondering if all this was somehow his fault.

"Quiet, everyone. I realise this is a shock, but behaving like dockyard fishwives will not help," Severus said sharply.

The community quietened, watching him. Severus slipped his hand into a robe pocket and pulled out a pair of dragonhide gloves that he used when processing dangerous ingredients. He put them on before touching the letter that lay on the table top, then he rose and walked to the sitting room to read it in private. After casting detection spells over the letter and finding it to be nothing more than simple parchment, he removed his gloves and started to read:

Dear Master Snape,

Following your recent decision that you no longer require our financial support, and after fact-finding visits from both Lucius and Draco Malfoy to observe the state of the Community, the Pureblood Alliance have made the decision that we must withdraw all future offers of financial help.

We have come to this decision with a sense of real regret, but we feel that the direction of the Community has changed considerably over the last year and the emphasis, whilst still on traditional values, is no longer sufficiently opposed to Muggle influence. This became obvious when you did not expel the woman who is consorting openly with an island Muggle. Your decision to take a half-blood as your apprentice was also a matter of poor judgment in our view, particularly when you had another, far more fitting candidate, already living in your Community.

Sadly, we have come to believe that your seclusion within your Community is ultimately for your own personal reasons, rather than for the good of Wizarding Britain.

We have supported your development projects in the past, and are pleased to note the success of the Fertility Potion, to which we still have rights. We hope you will continue to develop cures that will benefit Pureblood families, but have little expectation that you will.

Regretfully,

Rabastan Lestrange,

Secretary

Pureblood Alliance

This chilly letter, rather than making Severus unhappy, made him smile. He opened the door and called to Harry, who was still sitting with the others chatting about the departure of Scylla. Harry got up and came over to him.

"Come, read this."

When he'd read it, Harry looked up at Severus, trying to judge how his master felt about this apparent slap in the face. "Do you need their money, Severus?"

"No, not at present, and I hope not to in future either. They confirm that the Fertility Potion works so with luck we'll have some profit from that soon, too. I am a little concerned by their claims of having rights over it, but otherwise I am happy. This severs our ties, which is what I wanted."

"They're pretty nasty about you, aren't they? Saying the Community is just for your benefit."

Severus shrugged. "Others have thought that, and said it, before now. After all I am the Master, I make up the rules, make all the decisions; I revived the concept of Magical Monasticism."

"Someone has to run any venture," Harry said. "Everyone who lives here loves the place. Well, except Scylla, and she's leaving anyway."

"I like to think so," Severus mused. "Well, all in all this was meant to wound me, and instead it's made me smile. Scylla's departure will give us some problems, but we'll cope. It will just mean more work and less chance to conduct research, at least for a while."

No one saw Scylla at breakfast time. When Severus arrived he postponed eating breakfast and went to the workrooms to find her; the witch was packing up her own personal equipment. Her lips were pursed and she obviously did not want to talk. Severus never pursued anyone for mere conversation and left her to it.

Back at the breakfast table he settled next to Harry, noting that his husband looked thoughtful. He put his hand over Harry's and reassured him: "It's all right, Harry. Scylla is packing her personal items. No doubt she'll leave this morning."

Harry was staring at his plate of scrambled eggs and toast, holding his arms around his belly and looking quite ill. Severus wasn't sure why Harry was getting so upset about this; he knew Severus wasn't that bothered.

"I'm sorry, Master," Harry said, getting to his feet, "I feel a bit ill. Please forgive me, Miranda, for the waste…" That said, he turned and ran out of the kitchen towards the nearest toilet.

"Oh, dear," Miranda said, watching him leave. "He doesn't look too bright this morning. Must be all the upset."

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Chapter 28: The Merry Month Of May by Rakina

Chapter 28: The Merry Month of May

Harry had begun to expect to feel ill in the mornings. He wondered if he'd developed some allergy to eggs, or perhaps it was the tension of Scylla's departure that had spoiled breakfast-time for him, but whatever it was, he'd developed a diversion strategy to stop Severus and the others worrying about him. So this morning Harry was walking with Danyel towards the farm buildings.

Danyel had started eating breakfast very early. He was an early riser, being full of energy and had become difficult for his father to settle in the mornings, especially since Harry had arrived at the Community, and he ate as soon as Miranda reached the kitchen. Then he'd head to the farm to gather eggs to replace whatever she'd used for breakfast. Harry had perfected the art of arriving at the breakfast table just as Danyel ended his meal and before the others arrived. He'd had no difficulty persuading Danyel that he liked gathering eggs with him. He knew Miranda watched him, and worried, but he'd had a quiet talk with her and explained about his 'breakfast anxiety', as he called it. She'd agreed to humour Harry as long as he made up for it at lunchtime, and as long as he was back in time for work, but she insisted he take some oatcakes with him to 'keep him going'. She persuaded Harry they would help calm his stomach – they were often given to the sick – and he had found she was right. He could manage a few nibbles without being sick, but he couldn't manage a whole one. He'd been feeding the leftover pieces to the owls.

It was a lovely morning – still cool, but bright and promising to warm up later. The birds were going mad, singing loudly to protect their territories between gathering food for broody mothers and nestlings. Everything was growing almost as you looked at it. Light green shoots appeared on trees, bushes and over the ground as wildflowers and grass sprang up quickly to make up for the long, barren winter. Danyel nattered away talking about everything and nothing; Harry was happy to walk along and experience this optimistic, springtime world.

They reached the farmyard and Danyel bustled into the barn to get the egg baskets.

"I'll just say hello to Hedwig," Harry called, heading toward the owl's barn. "She's been grumpy lately, won't talk to me or come down at all."

"Okay, Harry."

Harry entered the cool, dim barn. The main party of owls were lined up on the central beam and a group of heads turned to watch him walk towards the corner where the niche containing Hedwig's nest was sited. Harry saw movement.

Hedwig was standing, shuffling from leg to leg as if stretching tired muscles. Her white plumage was startling in the gloomy corner. She seemed to have moulted some feathers…

"Oh, Hedwig!" Harry gasped, awe-struck. The moulted feathers were really the plumage on a baby chick, which was speckled white and brownish-grey. The little one moved and opened startling yellow eyes just like its mother's. Next to it, another moved. Harry tried to work out how many there were nestled under their mum's legs. There had been three eggs, had Hedwig got three chicks? He stood as high as he could on tiptoe, in the wonder of seeing Hedwig's babies he had forgotten that he was a wizard and could have levitated. There were three. "Oh, Hedwig, I've got to tell everyone! You're so clever!"

Hedwig hooted down at him, but she looked quite indulgent as if pleased with his praise. There was a flap of wings and an angrier hoot and her mate flew in with a mouse dangling from his beak. Harry watched the owl alight then turn his head to look at the invading human, his bright eyes fierce. "All right, I'm going. I won't disturb the new mum."

Harry went and found Danyel, telling him the exciting news. "We mustn't disturb her, though, Danyel. New mums are sensitive."

"I know, Harry. Da' always tells me to leave the ewes alone when they've just lambed. 'They're best left to it, boy; the mums know what's best for their babies,' he always says."

Harry was relieved that Danyel wouldn't rush in and disturb the owl family. Jolyon had taught his son well, and while Danyel was a bit overenthusiastic at times – especially with Harry – he was well trained in husbandry and genuinely loved all the animals.

Harry rushed into the workroom to tell Severus his news. Severus listened and smiled at his husband's enthusiasm. Harry had been visiting the owls every morning; he was so excited about the nest. "That's good news, Harry. There will be white owls flying over Eigg for years to come. If we end up with too many, you could sell some to Eeylops Owl Emporium in Diagon Alley."

Harry didn't look very keen on that idea; his pale face looked decidedly pinched. In fact, he was looking quite peaky lately, Severus thought, looking closely at him, which was odd for springtime. Most of the Community members were obviously flourishing as the weather warmed up. Severus reached out his hand to examine Harry's face, feeling slightly worried. He brushed Harry's hair away from his forehead to check his temperature, and stared.

"Harry, your scar has changed."

"Eh? Changed? What do you mean?" Harry sounded worried now.

Severus touched his long, cool forefinger to the scar, tracing the line with difficulty. "It's faded; it's so pale I can hardly see it in places."

Harry was shaking his head. "It's always pink, sometimes almost red."

Severus picked up a chopping board and cast a Speculum spell on it, turning it into a mirror. "Look."

There was no denying it. Harry touched the scar himself in wonder. "But why?"

"I don't know," Severus admitted. "I need to do some research."

A letter arrived during the day addressed to Severus. He and Harry were working in the Potions rooms which were inaccessible to owls, so the barn owl sat on the back of Severus' chair in the dining room and waited.

When the Community arrived for dinner, waiting patiently for their Master before being served, one or two tried to talk to the owl. It was spectacularly ill-tempered, or protective, depending on your viewpoint. Jolyon, who believed he had a way with animals (and he genuinely did) nursed his bleeding forefinger and grumbled.

Severus and Harry walked in and Severus sat, directing Argus to start the evening's readings. Argus began to read from A Wizarding History of Scotland, which was a favourite of Harry's because it gave all the old stories and prophecies right back to Celtic times. He knew the legend of the Blessèd Boy was in there, but Argus started reading from a section about the founding of Hogwarts School.

Severus told everyone to serve themselves and eat while he dealt with the owl. The previously-irascible bird obligingly stuck out its leg for Master Snape, as sweet as you like, and hooted its thanks when Severus gave it a chunk of chicken, before flying off to the window. Miranda got up and let it out, rather relieved to manage this without getting pecked.

Severus checked the sender's address – Potions Review, London & Glasgow – and decided to open the letter here at the table. He slipped out the parchment and scanned it while Harry served him a plateful of chicken, potatoes and mashed swede, which he then coated in thick, thyme gravy.

Dear Master Snape,

We now have the results of the trials we ran on your new Fertility Potion. We are pleased to report the trials ended with complete success – each woman who took the potion became pregnant, some for the first time ever, some managing to overcome known medical complications with conception.

Needless to say, we will be publishing our results and appraisal in the next issue of the Review.

We wish you good fortune with marketing this potion, which deserves to become the potion of choice for all in need of fertility treatment, as we will make plain in our article.

Do submit your next creation to us for evaluation. We have always been impressed by your potions. It is possible that we may wish to write a profile of you for a future issue of Potions Review. If you would be amenable to this, please write and let us know.

Yours very warmly,

Algernon Pestle

Editor

Harry saw the pleased smile on Severus' face and relaxed. He always worried when owl post arrived; fearing something nasty from the Pure-blood Alliance, but this was good news by the look of it.

At breakfast next morning Severus no longer wore a pleased smile. "Miranda, Harry is not here again. What is he doing?"

"Haven't you asked him, Master?" Miranda hedged.

"I'm asking you," Severus growled. He'd asked Harry before, only to be told the boy used the time to visit Hedwig. At first he'd believed that, but Harry knew he could have done it after breakfast without missing his meal. Since he'd noticed how peaky Harry was looking Severus had decided to find out why Harry wasn't eating breakfast with him any more.

"Well, he's up early these mornings, goes off with Danyel…"

Severus could tell Miranda was uncomfortable. Perhaps Harry had sworn her to secrecy. But why would he do that? And he was getting up early to go with Danyel. Severus scowled. He knew perfectly well he had no reason to be jealous of Danyel Tadcaster, but knowledge seemed to count for nothing where his heart was concerned. Every night he was so happy, holding Harry in his arms after making love. Harry wouldn't want to be with Danyel…

And yet he got up early to do just that. Was there something Severus was failing to provide for his husband? Instead of going to his workroom, Severus waited in the kitchen until Harry returned.

"I wish to speak with you, Harry," he said, leading Harry to the sitting room.

Harry glanced at Miranda but she was avoiding his eye.

"Sit down." Severus patted the sofa next to where he was sitting. He wanted Harry close, he needed to find out what was going on. If it was a problem he wanted to catch it before it got any worse.

Harry sat and looked down at his hands where they were clasped in his lap. Severus thought Harry looked guilty, and his heart lurched.

"Why have you been getting up early to go with Danyel?"

"Umm. Well, I have to see Hedwig. The chicks are growing, getting really gorgeous. You can see them more clearly and-"

"You know you could do that after breakfast. You haven't been eating, have you?" It wasn't really a question. Severus had got that much from Miranda. Harry turned up as Danyel finished eating; when he came back to the main buildings he went straight to the workroom. He wasn't eating breakfast.

"No, master."

Severus noted the use of his title and the tone of voice. "We work hard all morning, you need to eat. You always enjoyed Miranda's cooking before."

Harry said nothing. He seemed to find his clasped hands fascinating. Severus wasn't going to allow it. "Harry – I must insist you eat. You will go back in a moment and at least have some toast before coming to work. Tomorrow, if you go out with Danyel you will eat with him first. I will check."

"Severus, please…" Harry had known Severus would find out. He didn't even know why he'd tried to hide his sickness, except he was managing it on his own and he hadn't wanted to worry his husband. "I can't."

"Why?"

Of course Severus wanted an answer; there was never going to be a choice. Harry sighed and admitted the problem. "I get sick."

Severus frowned. "You got sick when Scylla left. That's a fortnight ago now. Are you still being sick?"

Harry nodded, then looked up into his husband's eyes. "It's all right if I don't eat breakfast. I still feel queasy but it passes off later. I make up for it at lunchtime like Miranda told me to."

"Oh, did she?"

Harry could have bitten his tongue off. Now Severus knew that Miranda knew more than she had told him and he didn't look very happy at all, either with Harry or the cook. "Please, Severus. I made her keep it secret. She only agreed because she saw I was eating okay later. It wasn't her fault."

"Harry, Miranda's decisions are her own responsibility. I will have a word with her in a moment. But first we need to find out if you have a serious problem. You've been looking a bit pale lately, I was already worried. This eating problem is just another part of it. Let me run some diagnostic spells."

Severus stood up and took out his wand, directing Harry to lie on the sofa and open his robes. Severus felt cold with anxiety, scared that something wasn't right, that Harry couldn't have made such a good recovery from his injury and something was going wrong inside. Severus ran the wand up and down above Harry's body, chanting Healer's revealing spells of various types. The process took a few minutes and left him frowning. "Hmm… there's something, but I've not caught it yet. Not a blockage, not a cancer, nothing malignant. But there's something wrong with your blood levels. Let me switch to hormonal and salt level spells."

Severus repeated his actions, chanting with different verses. Harry watched as the wand moved up and down his body, watched as it began to tremble and snapped his eyes to Severus' to see his husband looking shocked.

"What is it? Am I very ill? Severus?"

Severus just shook his head in denial.

"Please. Tell me – you're scaring me."

"No, no…. you're not ill. Not really ill. It's just… unbelievable."

Harry could see Severus was stunned by something he'd found. He knew badgering him wouldn't help, so he forced himself to wait. Finally Severus spoke: "'Blessed with the strength of the Old Ones who passed, And the power to bring children to birth'. Harry, you're pregnant."

Harry closed his eyes in shock. It was a while before he could open them again.

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Chapter 29: We Are Overcome by Rakina

Chapter 29: We Are Overcome

Harry opened his eyes and looked up at Severus who was standing over him, looking concerned.

"Harry… are you feeling all right?"

Harry laughed faintly. "All right? You tell me I'm pregnant then you ask if I'm all right? How can I be all right? I must be a freak – just like my uncle said."

"You are a very, very rare wizard, Harry. But I knew that already. And so did you, in your heart."

"I'm not a girl. It's just not possible. Not biologically possible."

"No. Well, of course you're right. You're very much a young man in every way. But you are the Blessèd Boy, the subject of a prophecy made fifteen hundred years ago. You are very special. There are legends of wizards who could bear children; it was not unheard of in history. Most people dismiss the old legends as little more than stories, but wise wizards understand that the legends of the past are based on fact. This phenomenon hasn't happened in recent centuries, but it seems it's about to happen again."

"Severus, I haven't got a womb. Where can I be carrying a baby? In my intestines? I'll die when the baby gets bigger…"

Severus reached out and took Harry's hand, steadying him. "You must have been born… different. You have a sort of womb, and the child is growing there. It seems to be branching off from your rectum. Until you got pregnant it was probably no more significant than the appendix and easily overlooked at medical checks, but it is beginning to enlarge and will grow as the baby does."

Harry looked stunned. "I've only ever had a complete medical check when I started Hogwarts, and Madam Pomfrey never saw it then. But even if I do have a womb… girls have periods, Severus. I've never had anything like that."

"Without further study, I cannot explain the details. I would suspect that your semen is somehow enhanced. You do not release eggs, like a female, but some mechanism must exist to make a mixture of our semen begin to grow into a baby. Maybe your semen passes through the diminutive womb-like structure before release, or perhaps it is stored there, thus allowing the possibility of conception. You are strongly magical – far stronger than most wizards. That magic could be specialised to perform the act of creation of life."

Severus squeezed Harry's hand which felt cool in his own. The young man was obviously shocked by the revelations. Severus hardly felt any better himself. He knew the legends but he'd never given proper scientific attention to them, thinking they were just fabrications or exaggerations. But how could you exaggerate pregnancy? It was still hard to imagine that a young man – not a hermaphrodite, a genuine young man – could be pregnant. And yet the diagnostics showed it, bright and clear, once he'd looked for it. It was only because of the legend, some of which had already come true, that Severus had looked, though he'd not expected to find anything. If all of the legend was true, as Harry believed, then it was a wonderful thing indeed, with consequences not only for him and Harry having a family, but for the defeat of evil. Severus felt almost as overcome as his husband.

"Was it something to do with the Fertility Potion, Severus? Maybe you should be careful; you handled it far more than I did."

Severus smiled. "No, Harry. It won't make me pregnant. I do not have that ability. I told you, it's unknown since ancient times. You are a very special young man, the Blessed Boy. Remember the verse: blessed with the strength of the Old Ones who passed, And the power to bring children to birth. The ability is inborn, not something that can be given by ingesting a potion."

Harry sighed. "I told you it was all true, that we had to be bonded. But even then I didn't see this." He had a sudden thought: "Children, Severus! Am I having twins?"

Severus smiled and ruffled Harry's hair. "I don't think so… I think there's only one. Two would make a complicated birth even more difficult."

"Oh! The birth! Oh, no. I'm going to split apart, aren't I?"

"Harry, I'll be there. I'll do everything I can. You won't be hurt. I'll do some research-" Severus was aware he was sounding panicked, babbling, and took a deep breath and slowed down. "At the very least I can do a surgical removal and there might be other options… short-range assisted Apparition is sometimes used in difficult midwifery cases, I believe. You are only about eight weeks along, there is plenty of time. Do not think I will let you suffer. I'm not going to lose you, Harry. Not now. And remember, if the prophecy says 'children', you must be able to do this with the same ease a witch would. That's what it means, I'm sure." Severus put firmness and optimism into his voice, feelings he didn't really have as yet, but he would do all he could to play his part and make this miracle happen.

Severus pulled Harry into his arms, now desperate to reassure his husband and needing to convince himself. Harry, his unique, perfectly-matched husband, was so precious. This revelation that he was possessed of an ancient power, an ability not seen for centuries, was just further proof of that.

Severus realised that Harry was quite overcome and would not be able to work this morning. He decided to go and brew the batch of Fluid Joint potion that Slug & Jiggers were screaming for, leaving Harry to rest here on the couch. "I'll bring you some books to read, Harry. See if you can find out anything useful from the old stories. While you're doing that, I'll brew the morning's batch and you can help me bottle and pack it this afternoon if you're well enough."

"Yes, Severus. Thank you."

Harry sounded, and still looked, shell-shocked. Severus left him where he was and went to the library. With George's help he soon had an armful of books that might have useful references in them. He took them back to Harry and piled them on the coffee table by the couch. "Flick through these, make notes, and just spend the morning thinking, Harry."

Harry nodded. He looked so unsure. Severus knelt next to him and took his hands and squeezed, then dropped a soft kiss on Harry's reddened lips – his husband had been worrying them with his teeth. "Harry, we'll cope. I never thought I'd be a father. You are giving me a gift I could never have hoped for. I'll be here for you."

Harry looked into his eyes and finally seemed to return to reality. He kissed Severus and clung to him. Severus held him, until he felt Harry's grip ease, then gently pulled back. "It will be all right. The prophecy says we'll establish a bloodline. That means this pregnancy will be successful. Have faith."

Harry nodded. "I do believe the prophecy – it seems to have applied to us so far. And it's from Merlin, so it has to be real. You're right, you're always right, Severus. I know I'll be fine; it's just a huge shock."

"I'll send Miranda in with a hot drink for you. I'll see you at lunchtime, but I really must go and brew this batch now." Harry nodded and Severus left.

Harry wondered if he should say anything to the cook, tell her he was pregnant, but he supposed it was best left for now. There was plenty of time and he didn't want to tell anyone without talking to Severus about it first. He sat back, making himself comfortable and picked up the first book from the pile. Severus had placed parchment, ink and a quill next to the books so Harry could take notes. He opened the book and started to read.

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Chapter 30: The Early Summer Weather by Rakina

Chapter 30: The Early Summer Weather

May was one of the most beautiful months of the year on Eigg. The trees sported fresh, green leaves, the birds sang all the time (or so it seemed), vegetation grew like mad, and Harry was sick. He began to forget how it felt to feel well. He tried not eating anything at all, but that seemed to make the sickness last longer. In the end he found it was best to eat something bland – like toast with a scraping of jam, or some of the plain biscuits Miranda made as crackers – and then be sick. Sometimes, if he was lucky, he would get it over with that way and the nausea would retreat for the day. By lunchtime he might manage a little food. At dinner he could usually eat properly and was rarely sick in the evenings, but the threat of the nausea hovered around him like a cloud of gnats getting ready to bite.

Harry hated being sick. The physical process disgusted him. He learned to hate and dread the warning signs when his mouth filled with saliva and he started to sweat. He knew the island was looking better than he'd ever seen it, but the sickness was spoiling it for him.

He returned from his latest trip to the loo and sat back down at the breakfast table to drink his tea. Severus always poured him a cup with only the smallest dash of milk added and Harry usually found it comforted his stomach after he'd vomited, without making its own repeat appearance.

Severus looked at him and his eyes were full of warmth and support, but he made no overt sign. Harry knew Severus had to maintain his position as Master, especially at mealtimes. He understood that, but sometimes it hurt. He'd love Severus to squeeze his hand or smile at him.

"We'll be starting on the shearing today," Jolyon announced.

"Oh good," Richeldis said. "I've run out of the pale wool ages ago."

"You know that's rare in the Hebridean sheep. I keep the pale ewes as long as I can, sometimes just for the wool after they're too old for lambing."

"I know, Jolyon. And thank you. I need some pale wool for the coverlet I'm knitting."

"Well, we'll start with the pale ewes first then," Jolyon promised, causing the beekeeper to smile. She loved knitting in the evenings while she was in the sitting room with the rest of the community, and while she watched the card games and joined in with the chat her nimble fingers caused her needles to click out a background rhythm.

Normally, the ewes that were past lambing age were slaughtered before the winter. Their meat took careful cooking as it could be stringy, but Miranda had a variety of methods and recipes that coped with it. The Community never wasted an animal. The old, pale sheep had a longer lifespan due to Richeldis' love of their wool.

"I like the shearing!" Danyel enthused. "I hold the sheep for Da'," he told Harry. "They make a fuss when you turn them on their backs, but I soon calm them down. Sometimes they fall asleep like that!"

Harry smiled. He'd like to be able to watch, but he knew there were orders awaiting packing. Then he needed to get on with some studying; Severus had set him an essay on genetics. Harry thought that was because of his pregnancy, though Severus had said the science came into Potions research as well, impacting on both plant and animal ingredients. "Maybe I can help you next year, Danyel. We're too busy in the Potions rooms to help you right now."

Harry headed to the scriptorium. He kept George company on the days when he was studying. The large desks and good light in George's work area was an ideal place for study and of course the library was right next door. But Harry had asked George to warn him if Daedalus Diggle was going to be visiting, not wanting to face the strange wizard. He had a suspicion Diggle would see there was something unusual about Harry, though he doubted the man could guess he was pregnant. Still, he'd study in his cell if Diggle came for his calligraphy lessons and only interact with him when all the Community members were present.

Harry's essay was beginning to fascinate him. He got sidetracked into considering just what his baby would be like and he wondered if Severus had set the essay so Harry did some more research into wizard pregnancy. He drew a simple table to show how their odd combination of two XY genes would combine, hoping to see how it could work.

It didn't look right. What was that YY combination? Thoughtfully, he tried looking through books to see what this meant, but none of the genetics texts mentioned such a thing. There were some rare conditions, such as XYY, which always seemed to confer no benefits. In fact, individuals born with chromosomal anomalies were usually handicapped in some way, sometimes profoundly. Harry felt sick, and knew it wasn't because of his standard morning sickness this time. Clutching his parchment, he got up from the desk where he was studying and headed for the Potions room.

Severus looked up as Harry entered, immediately seeing the look of distress on the younger man's face. "Harry?"

"Severus, I-" Harry got no further; he just held the parchment out to his husband.

Severus took it and scrolled down to the bottom. Presumably Harry had got upset by something he'd just discovered. He looked at the table, uncomprehending. "What is wrong? This seems correct."

"Correct? Severus, our baby might be handicapped!"

"What do you mean? All I can see is that our baby is twice as likely to be a boy, but why should he be handicapped?"

"YY! It's wrong!"

Severus realised what Harry meant. "Oh. Yes, it's so wrong it won't happen, Harry. No human can have the genetic structure Y-Y. Such a conception, even if it occurred, would not be viable."

Harry started to tremble. He needed to sit down and groped for a seat. Severus came over and helped him sit. "I – I – " He gave up trying to speak as a rush of emotion passed through him.

"Harry, you're not going to give birth to a freak. Trust me. The conception is magical, but not freakish. Trust the prophecy if you won't trust me. The baby is twice as likely to be a boy, but either sex will be a normal baby." Severus cast a stasis charm over his brewing and knelt before Harry. "'A bloodline of power, of Light and of joy', remember?" Severus took Harry's trembling hands and raised them to his lips. The kiss seemed to pass warmth and energy into the young man.

Harry breathed deeply and began to relax. "I've been a fool, haven't I?"

"No. Never that. You're worried, and that's natural. But we have every reason to be confident. How many witches have a promise like the prophecy for their pregnancy?"

Harry sat and watched Severus finish the rest of the morning's brewing before walking to lunch with his husband. As they moved to leave the Potions room, Severus suddenly pulled Harry into his arms and kissed him. The kiss was warm and comforting, but soon deepened. Harry sighed as he felt his husband's erection pressing into his belly.

"I love you, Harry. Amor vincit omnia*, remember that."

Harry's stomach rumbled with hunger. His sickness had passed away completely, at least for this day, and he felt truly happy. Lately his moods changed like the early summer weather – sunlight, then clouds, quick showers and brightness again. And heat. Sudden, scorching heat. He pressed against Severus, wishing they had time to pursue this now.

"Tonight, my love," Severus said huskily into his ear. "Tonight we will have an early night, if you wish it."

Harry did wish it, fervently.

*Amor vincit omnia = love conquers everything. Which sounds less mushy in Latin, and from Severus' lips.

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Chapter 31: Support by Rakina

Chapter 31: Support

After dinner, Harry excused himself from the company and, yawning widely, told them he was going to bed. "I've been so tired lately, I think I'll try and catch up with some sleep."

Severus had just sat down opposite George for a game of chess. He looked up. "I'll just beat George – it shouldn't take long – then I'll be along," he told Harry.

George was protesting about the over-confidence of youth and the value of experience as Harry left, smiling. He was going to have a nice, long soak in the bath and make sure he was really clean for his husband. Despite George's protests, Severus would probably win. His razor-sharp mind seemed made for chess.

Harry hadn't been in bed long. He'd read about two pages of the book he'd been trying to read for the last fortnight. He was either too tired or lacked the concentration to get very far and his bookmark was still near the beginning. The door opened and Severus entered, smirking. "You won, didn't you?" Harry said.

"Of course. I let it go on a little longer than necessary. George likes to think he's got me on the run."

"He's beaten you before."

Severus nodded. "He has. Usually when I'm ill or distracted, of course. Which has been rather too often since a certain green-eyed young man came to live on Eigg," he added, turning to sweep Harry into his arms.

Severus kissed him and Harry melted in pleasure. He was feeling energised and well this evening and he was determined to make the best of it while it lasted. He started to kiss back, putting the urgency of his need into the kiss. Severus read it and responded with firmer kisses and little nips to his husband's lips, while his hands fumbled with Harry's pyjamas, impatient to touch warm flesh.

Harry's hands were at Severus' dressing gown, pulling just as insistently. Once they were naked, Severus climbed up onto their bed, stretching out beside Harry, pressing his erection into Harry's side and rubbing shamelessly.

"You're well?" Severus asked breathlessly, dreading a negative answer.

"I feel fine at the moment," Harry said as he stroked Severus' pale flesh, appreciating the feel of the wiry muscles beneath his hands. Severus was stronger than he looked when he was clothed; he'd been working so much lately his muscles were hard.

Severus groaned with relief as he held Harry in a fierce embrace, kissing and licking and tasting, wanting more closeness all the time. Their bodies meshed and entangled in familiar positions, ensuring contact all over. The heat they generated was both physical and emotional. Because they hadn't slept together for a while their urgency meant the foreplay would be brief.

Harry tilted his hips and opened his legs, ready for Severus' preparations. Severus put a hand on Harry's hip bone and pushed him down. "Not tonight," he said.

Harry's face fell. He needed Severus, needed to be loved…

Severus saw Harry's expression and hastened to explain. "I will not enter you tonight, Harry. You are pregnant and in these early months it's wise to take extra care. Tonight, you will penetrate me."

Harry's eyes opened wide in surprise and he gasped. "I will?"

Severus smiled and kissed Harry. Really, he looked adorable like this… clueless and eager, like a child with a new puppy. In fact, Severus lost himself for a few minutes in tasting the emotion his husband was feeling. Their ability to feel and absorb each other's emotions was possibly a benefit of their bond but it could also be unique because of Harry's special status. Severus was humbled by it every time he became aware of it.

Ending the kiss, Severus concentrated on Harry's question. "You will. You know how, Harry."

Harry still looked stunned. "I don't know how. I've never done it."

"But you have had it done to you. You know what I do and how it feels. You will be fine." Severus placed the pot of lube in Harry's hand. "Try."

Blushing, Harry unscrewed the jar and tentatively touched the lube with his fingertip. He didn't know why he was so embarrassed, Severus and he had shared so much together, but this was different somehow. Harry suddenly felt the responsibility of being the dominant partner during lovemaking. It made him appreciate even more just how well Severus had always treated him.

Severus rolled onto his back and pulled Harry closer before spreading his legs and tilting his hips. Harry blushed even more as he looked at Severus laid out before him. It was so strange, yet he couldn't stop staring. Severus' cock arched towards his own chest, hard and ready; it seemed strange that Severus wasn't going to be sinking into him. He looked down and reached a hand forward, cupping Severus' balls, lifting them a little to look closer. The cleft of the arse beckoned and Harry parted the cheeks, curious. He was so absorbed now he hardly noticed Severus' dark eyes watching him.

Severus was fascinated watching Harry. He could feel that Harry was nervous at first, but now he was really getting into it. As Harry parted Severus' arse cheeks and stroked a gentle finger over his entrance, Severus felt the surge of heat that passed through his husband's body. Felt it and mirrored it. "I want you inside me," he told Harry, and meant it.

Harry slipped the tip of his finger inside Severus. He was nervous about hurting him.

"Remember how you feel when I do it," Severus whispered.

Harry remembered very well. With more confidence he pressed in and swirled the finger, searching inside for the prostate, wanting to give Severus the pleasure he'd felt on many occasions. He new exactly when he'd found it, hardly needing to hear the pleased gasp from his husband because he felt the pleasure flooding through their bond. Harry played awhile, gently, in between exploring the feel of the passage. He withdrew then and slicked two fingers, repeating the foreplay.

"Soon, Harry. I've not been taken for years, but I'm nearly ready," Severus said.

Harry felt the tight muscles easing. The warmth and rightness of the flesh surrounding his fingers was making him want to be inside Severus. He withdrew his fingers and lined himself up. "I've got to have you now," he moaned.

"Yes," Severus agreed, pushing up towards the cock held so tantalisingly close.

Harry pushed. It felt tight, resistant, and he almost drew back until suddenly he found he'd pushed right in. He was inside his husband; it was a hot, tight, overwhelming pressure and he had to have more of it. He pushed smoothly and firmly, sinking further inside; he could feel Severus welcoming him in every way.

Thrusting, sinking even deeper with each thrust Harry soon found himself as far as he could go inside his husband. He paused to absorb the feeling of being surrounded, his eyes drifting closed. He slipped one hand down to hold Severus' heated erection and squeezed.

"Please."

Harry didn't know if Severus' voice was in his ears or in his mind, but he responded to its plea. He began by rocking gently, rhythmically against Severus. It was amazing being cradled by his husband's body; he felt accepted in the deepest way possible.

The feelings continued to build and the urgency of their earlier kissing returned. Harry rode the newness, passed through it and surged on to revel in this act of intimacy. He loved it when Severus entered him, but the feeling of mastery as he guided Severus toward orgasm was like a wild rush of adrenalin. Giving in to it, his thrusts became fast and Harry knew he was making noises, wild noises he couldn't restrain, and gripping tightly onto his husband's sides for fear of spiralling off in his elation. He felt Severus' muscles clamp tight around his cock and cried out in an ecstasy that was almost agony as his own orgasm slammed through him.

Harry's last small thrusts stilled and he held himself close, as close as he could get to Severus. He didn't want to feel that awful sensation of loss when they parted. Severus wrapped his arms around Harry, holding him tight, but Harry could feel his husband's discomfort, their position awkward now the excitement of making love was fading into the calmness of afterglow. With a sigh, he pulled out.

Once cleaned up they settled side by side, cuddling. Severus cradled Harry in his arms and kissed his face, tender pecks in between words. "So good, my Harry. So precious." Severus tenderly stroked Harry's abdomen, including their baby in his endearments. Harry fell asleep listening to gentle words of possession and support.

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Chapter 32: Madness Of Various Kinds by Rakina

Chapter 32: Madness of Various Kinds

As May gave way to June – flaming June which was living up to its name – Harry began to hope more fervently for the end of his morning sickness. But it never happened. Every morning he felt green, every day seemed to drag. The heat of the month seemed to be sapping his energy and he felt constantly tired. Severus worked like a demon in the Potions rooms, doing most of the work alone, but this merely made Harry feel guilty, despite Severus' protestations that he was well up to the task.

Harry was sitting at a desk in the scriptorium trying to concentrate on his reading. His academic work had been prioritised lately as he could do it while he rested, but he was discovering that his tiredness affected more than his body and he struggled to make sense of some of the texts. He sighed deeply.

George looked up. "Why don't you go along and get yourself a cup of coffee, lad. It might help you wake up a bit."

"Am I that obvious?"

"Well, I can see you're drifting off from time to time, let's just say that. Is Master Snape working you too hard now Scylla's gone?"

"Oh, no… no, not at all. He suggested I come and study, in fact. He's been very kind." Harry knew several of his friends had noticed his tiredness; he'd had comments about being careful not to work too hard. He supposed they ought to announce the pregnancy, but Harry wanted to be further along before that happened. He had read that the first three months of pregnancy were in many ways the most dangerous, with greatest risk of miscarriage. Although he couldn't remember feeling so sick and tired before in his life, he dreaded the thought of losing his baby – their baby, and vowed to put up with it without complaint. The pregnancy was beginning to feel part of his life now and Severus was obviously thrilled by the thought of becoming a father.

The month passed and the heat intensified. July was a time of relative stillness in the Community as everything ripened and grew. Lambs that had bounded on spindly legs grew sturdy and fat like their mothers. Bees built up their harvest, working endlessly and making everyone sleepy with their somnolent humming; workers in the gardens and orchards marvelled at the loudness of the insects. Severus worked just as hard as ever. Harry helped as much as he could, but Severus made sure he didn't exhaust himself. Although Harry felt guilty – as yet there was no outward sign of his pregnancy obvious to the others – Severus was also aware how important this early time was. The baby might be tiny but Harry's health was paramount.

Harry could see a slight rounding to his abdomen. He could feel it when he passed his hand over it and had a shock when he turned onto his belly in the big old bathtub. The hard roundness was nothing like getting fat, it pressed into him, quite a solid lump, and he realised that was where his baby was growing. Although it didn't show under his robes yet – and even if anyone had noticed, it looked no different than a slight gain in weight would – Harry was thrilled that at last he had some real evidence of his pregnancy. Apart from the morning sickness, that is, which persisted. Harry wondered if he was one of those unfortunate souls fated to be sick throughout his pregnancy.

Harry's moods still varied wildly. He felt out of control, unable to command the emotions that swept through him from time to time. He knew he had nothing to feel unhappy about, but that didn't stop the sudden outbursts of tears or argumentativeness. He hated it when one of his friends found him crying and he never knew what to tell them because half the time he had no reason to cry. He was getting some worried looks from Abigail and thought she was suspecting marital problems.

As he stretched out in bed waiting for Severus to join him, he felt the surge of weepiness that was becoming all too familiar. Harry tried to ignore it, taking out his handkerchief and blowing his nose in the hope that would stave off the tears. But it didn't help, he'd been sick after dinner this evening and he was just fed up with feeling ill every day.

Severus came in and saw Harry snuffling into his hanky. He hurried over and got onto the bed, pulling Harry into his arms. "You'll feel better soon," he said reassuringly, rubbing Harry's shoulder muscles which were very tense.

"I'm just fed up with being sick," Harry sniffled.

"I know. Are you taking the anti-sickness draught?"

"Yes, and it helps a bit. But it doesn't stop it all the time."

"It has to be mild, you know that. This will pass, Harry. As your belly swells you'll start to feel better." Severus slipped his hand down and rested it on the slight rise of Harry's abdomen. Harry nodded, sniffling. Severus began to kiss him softly, soothingly. "Male pregnancy is very rare, and it's bound to be difficult. But you will get through it. I know I keep saying it, but it is foretold: you are the Blessèd Boy."

Harry let his eyes drift shut, content to feel Severus' hands stroking his body, distracting him from his weakness.

"And our baby is so well-aspected, Harry. Our baby will be strongly magical. All good things start from here, from this pregnancy," Severus soothed as his hands continued to stroke Harry's body. "All good things started for me when I met you, that day when I first saw you step into my Community, and I knew I wanted you."

"I don't feel much like a legend right now," Harry admitted ruefully. "But legends can start from the oddest things, can't they?"

Severus chuckled. "They can. Do you remember the local legend of 'The Madman of the Hills'?"

"Yes, I read about it when I was coming to Eigg. It sounded scary, and a little daft."

"Well, it's both. It's based on me, of course."

Harry turned and looked at Severus to see if he was joking. "You're joking, aren't you?"

"No." Severus' face was impassive.

"But you're not mad!"

"But I can be alarming," Severus said, widening his eyes and glaring.

Harry laughed. "Not to me," he said, slipping his hand down to Severus' cock and squeezing.

Severus' glare couldn't be sustained and he moaned in pleasure at the touch of his husband's hand.

"No, seriously, how did you become a legend?" Harry asked.

"It was all a misunderstanding. In the very early days, the wards weren't as established as they are now. It was before we'd done the Boundary Rites. A Muggle tourist's dog got through after the sheep. Needless to say, I objected to this."

Harry watched his husband's face as he told the tale, never getting tired of watching the dark depths of Severus' eyes and the emotions playing across his unique features.

"I ran down the hillside, shouting at the dog and waving my arms. I didn't want to use magic unless it was unavoidable. My appearance, in my dark robes and with my hair flying, must have alarmed the Muggle more than I'd expected, he let out a yell and bolted like a scared rabbit with his dog at his heels. I wouldn't have had time to Obliviate him even if I'd wanted to."

"Did you do that only once?" Harry asked.

"Well, once or twice," Severus said, his eyes glittering with humour.

"They think you're a vampire," Harry said, grinning.

"Oh, I might be," Severus said, grinning back quite frighteningly.

Harry shivered as Severus applied his teeth to the side of his neck. But he wasn't shivering from fear.

As they got up next morning, Severus said something that Harry had been waiting for. "If you are willing, it is time to tell the Community. Your stomach is starting to swell and the dangerous early weeks have passed."

"Oh, yes! I want our friends to know. I've hated not being able to say anything to them. Poor Miranda and Abigail have been so worried about my sickness, thinking I've got some awful illness because of my fall."

"Then I will announce it at breakfast, if that suits you?"

"Yes, please."

Over the toast and tea, Severus clapped his hands and everyone gave him their attention. "I have an announcement to make. It is quite a shocking one, and I've no doubt you'll have questions for myself and Harry, which I'm willing to spend some time answering this morning."

Everyone was looking more intrigued now. Abigail glanced at Harry and squeezed his hand, as if fearful she was about to lose him. Harry smiled back encouragingly, whispering, "It'll be all right."

Miranda, who was bringing more toast, hurried to sit in her place.

"Each and every one of us is familiar with the legend of The Blessèd Boy, as it refers to our island. Since Harry's arrival to join our Community, some of you have wondered if the legend might refer to him. We are now sure that it does."

"Ah, that's not too much of a shock, Master," George said. "We'd sort of worked that out."

Severus smiled at the old man. "I'm sure you had, George. But I'm equally sure that none of you realised how literal that prophecy is. Every line is coming true."

There was silence, so Severus continued. "Harry is pregnant, my friends."

There were gasps from everyone and their eyes shot towards Harry. Danyel's voice rose quite stridently: "He can't have a baby, Da'! Harry's a boy. I know he's a boy! I've seen him in the fish pond, he's got a cock same as me!"

Jolyon just patted Danyel's shoulder. "Hush, boy. Let Master Snape tell us."

"Danyel, you are right," Severus said. "Boys cannot have babies. None except The Blessèd Boy, that is. Harry is a powerful and very special wizard. He was born with the ability to give birth, just as the legend tells us. Merlin was right and we were faithless to doubt him."

"When, Severus?" Miranda asked, looking excited.

"Near Christmas we believe, Miranda. The winter festival will be a very special one this year on Eigg."

Danyel still looked confused. Abigail grabbed Harry's hand. "Congratulations, Harry. Oh, and you of course, Master." She blushed for her breach of etiquette.

Severus inclined his head, willing to forgive Harry's friend's lapse, and smiled as the whole Community expressed their congratulations to the couple. Lydia and Richeldis, who had given birth to children, gathered around Harry and told him he must come to them if he had any questions at all. "Although Master Snape can answer you scientifically, Harry, only a mother can understand what you're going through. A lot of it's strange, sometimes scary, sometimes exciting, and we'd love to help you," Richeldis said, hugging the young man.

"A final word," Severus said, breaking up the excited babble that filled the kitchen. "We have visitors as usual this summer and Harry's pregnancy will soon be obvious. This cannot be kept secret from the rest of the magical community, and there is no real need to do so. On the other hand, we do not need to seek out the press, though I've no doubt they'll descend on us sooner rather than later."

And so it happened. The Wizarding community of Great Britain was small and tightly knit, and the Daily Prophet usually got to hear of any interesting news right away. The Women's Interest reporter Misty Meadows arrived about a week later, eager to interview the young couple. She was somewhat surprised by Severus' appearance, which hadn't been what she'd expected, as he was dressed all in black and looked very serious. Harry, however, became the subject of many photographs and a very chatty interview. It seemed he resembled the archetype of a young, male wizard with child, which was ridiculous as there hadn't been one for centuries and there were no pictures of the last bearing wizard, so nobody had any idea what a bearing wizard should be like anyway.

The story made the front page of the Prophet, with a double-page spread inside. The Wizarding world at large got its first inkling that something momentous was happening on the little island of Eigg.

Along with many letters and cards of congratulation that started arriving in the middle of July there came a less welcome guest. Lucius Malfoy walked up to the Community one afternoon, demanding to see Severus.

Severus was in the middle of brewing a potion and did not just drop everything to see the self-important man. Lucius had no control over him now, and so he could wait. When he'd finished and cleaned up he asked Harry to accompany him.

Lucius was waiting, very impatiently, in the sitting room. As the couple entered, he was pacing up and down, twisting his cane between his hands almost fiercely enough to snap it.

"Lucius. Is there something I can do for you?" Severus' voice was as cold as winter.

"Unless you can explain why everything in the country has started to go downhill as soon as you began this… this travesty," he shouted, waving his cane for emphasis, "I doubt it."

"Then there is nothing I can do for you, as I suspected. I am not responsible for the goings-on outside of my Community. What occurs here is, to a large extent, under my control and is my responsibility. But I fail to see how that applies to you, Lucius."

"Severus, you are being deliberately obtuse. That legend you insist on displaying in all your rooms," Lucius pointed a shaking finger at the framed legend on the sitting room wall, "is the source of the trouble. If you had listened to me and taken it down, it might not have come to this. And now that it has come to light what a… a freak you are harbouring here, the cause of our troubles is plain enough!"

"You will not speak of my husband in that way!" Severus roared, and his wand was in his hand before Harry even saw him move for it.

"It is unnatural!" Lucius roared back, his pale face flushing rosy pink. "You have obviously been abusing the Fertility Potion, to which I have rights, and I assure you I would never have permitted this. It will have the most dreadful effects on the Wizarding world! Things are starting to happen even now!"

"Quite aside from the fact that I created the Fertility Potion and so cannot be accused of abusing it however I choose to use it, Harry has never been near the potion. And you have no right to dictate what goes on in my Community at present, certainly not based on your previous financial support. I don't know what dreadful effects you're talking about, but there is nothing unnatural about Harry. He is a bearing wizard, the rarest of the rare, and the most blessed because of it. He is a gift to the wizarding world and in no way threatens it."

"You think not? You are a fool, living here in your little paradise away from the reality of life! All you want to do is to lord it among your fellow misfits! What do you care about the rest of Wizarding Britain, Severus? You could never get on with them, which is why you turned your back-"

"Silencio!" Harry, standing unnoticed to the side of the shouting men, had drawn his wand and cast the spell.

Lucius Malfoy whirled on the young man, his face redder than ever, his mouth still working to shout accusations at both of them, even though no sound was coming out.

"You will not come here and threaten my husband, nor speak so ill of him! Here on Eigg we work only for the good of the Wizarding world. All the Wizarding world."

Severus stepped closer to Lucius, wand extended. Malfoy's wand was pointing right back at him. "You would be wise to leave, Lucius. You are not wanted here. Not now, and not in the future. Do you understand me?"

Malfoy merely glared; there wasn't much else he could do. Harry didn't doubt the man could cast a wordless spell if he wished, but hoped he still had enough self-control to realise that wouldn't be very wise in the middle of Master Snape's Community.

"Now get out!" Severus shouted.

Malfoy, with an intimidating whirl of his robes, stalked off toward the exit. As he left the building, Severus cast a blasting hex after the man and it exploded next to him, causing Malfoy to whirl around in shock and rage. He still couldn't be heard, though he was shouting soundlessly and gesticulating furiously at the Community members who were avidly watching his departure. Severus stood at the door with his wand extended, clearly threatening the man. Malfoy turned again and Apparated away in a hurry, before any more hexes could reach him.

As Severus lowered his wand arm, he said, "I will alter the wards to prevent his return. He has nothing to say that I want to hear."

As Severus walked away, Harry felt a sense of guilt that he was the cause of such upheaval. Although Malfoy had always made him uncomfortable, the man had supported Severus at one time and made it possible for the Community to get underway. Whatever the reason for their argument, it was sad to see Severus losing a friend and making a dangerous enemy. Harry hurried to catch up with Severus, slipping his hand into the older wizard's.

"What things was he talking about, Severus? Have you heard what's been happening?"

"No. I know of nothing. If it is anything, it might be something like his Dark spells becoming less effective. Something along those lines might be the meaning of the prophecy."

"On the Island of Eigg when the Blessèd Boy stays

All Britain once more will be whole

Then there'll be no power in cruel Dark ways…" Harry recited.

Yes, and don't forget that "Evil will lose its last soul." Severus smiled grimly.

Harry shivered as if a cold breeze had just blown over his skin.

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Chapter 33: The Spreading Of Joy by Rakina

Chapter 33: The Spreading of Joy

As August passed and nothing more was heard from Malfoy, everyone started to relax again. It was the culmination of the summer season, the hottest month and a time of relative laziness. The summer crops were mostly in and the autumn harvest hadn't begun. Community members sat outside at every opportunity, often accompanied by their guests. The guest house was fully booked for the holiday month.

With all the fresh fruit, salad and vegetables even Miranda had time to herself. The exception was the Potions rooms, where orders still needed to be fulfilled. Harry was feeling so much better now. As his abdomen swelled and the sickness passed he became possessed of a feeling of wellbeing he wouldn't have believed possible just a month ago. He helped Severus every morning, brewing the stock potions which were not dangerous in any way. In the afternoons he continued his studies, sitting quietly as he read or wrote essays.

Harry was happy to spend so much time with his husband, but it had a disadvantage now. Because Harry was feeling horny. He got aroused just watching Severus' long fingers wielding his knives, preparing ingredients, stirring the cauldron… At first Harry was a bit shocked by this, he thought pregnant women spent all their time thinking about their baby and getting ready for the birth. But it seemed the hormones were making Harry randy and he'd never have expected that. He wondered if it was just because he was a man, and eventually plucked up his courage and shyly asked Lydia if it was normal. The witch had smiled and hugged him. "Oh, yes. Poor Josiah was hard put to it to keep up with me!" Lydia laughed. "I'd want sex at all hours of the day and night. We were out shopping once for maternity clothes and we had sex in the changing room at Madam Malkin's."

Harry goggled. How anyone could get past Madam Malkin's gimlet eyes and manage that was a mystery to him. Perhaps Madam Malkin, like Harry until recently, thought pregnant women didn't do that sort of thing. Certainly not in her changing room, anyway. He laughed. "I'll stop feeling guilty then. And I haven't said anything to Severus. But this afternoon I wanted to jump on him, right when he was in the middle of bottling Worry-wart Bane. He wouldn't have thought much of that, I'm sure."

Lydia shrugged. "No, perhaps you'd better not try anything in the Potions rooms, Harry. But anywhere else, just go for it! I bet Master Snape will love it."

Harry grinned and determined to take her advice. At dinner Harry ate a large plateful. Now the sickness had passed it had been replaced by an almost permanent hunger which amused Severus and pleased Miranda. The long table was packed with folk and during the dinner Severus had been instructing them on the ways of Community life. Harry's pregnancy got a lot of notice, the opinion of most guests being that because they were so blessed their lifestyle had to be right.

One guest was more interested in Severus' work than Harry's pregnancy. Her name was Tansy Wainwright and she was going into her seventh year at Hogwarts in September. Harry remembered her, but hadn't really known her to speak to as she was younger than him. She came from a farming family and was the youngest daughter. She admitted she was looking for something that would suit her after Hogwarts. Tansy was used to living in a large family in the midst of the countryside and didn't want to work in London. Also, she didn't want to study any more as she already struggled a bit with her academic work; everything except Potions was difficult for her. But Potions fascinated her. She told Severus how her grandmother had taught her to brew from an early age, first by watching the old witch work and then joining in.

Harry liked her quite a lot and was happy that Severus might get another assistant next year. Harry hoped they could cope until then, though it would be difficult with the baby coming at Christmas. The thought of the baby was so strange. At times Harry couldn't imagine life with a baby and he knew very little about them. But the growing bump inside him reminded him that this was real, and in just four months time he'd give birth to his and Severus' child. He was nervous about it, but he had faith in Severus and in the prophecy.

In the sitting room that evening the Daily Prophet was being passed around.

"That's got to be good news," Jolyon said, sounding relieved.

Harry looked up.

"See, Master," Jolyon said, passing the paper to Severus. "This article, here." He jabbed at the page with a blunt finger. Severus took the paper and read. Harry wanted to know what it was but he knew better than to look over Severus' shoulder, it really annoyed his husband, even if it was Harry who was doing it. Reading seemed to have an almost religious intensity for his husband, so Harry waited, knowing Severus would tell him anything important.

"Good news for all of Wizarding Britain indeed," Severus agreed. "Here, Harry, have a look."

Death Eater Activities Dwindling

By Aloysius Snoop

This correspondent has noticed a reduction in reports of Death Eater activity this summer. Whilst some may say this is a seasonal effect, I do not believe that to be the case. Last June and July there were 12 attacks on homes, individuals and businesses, leading to damage, destruction, injury and in two cases, loss of life. This year, since the start of June there have only been 2 incidents, neither resulting in injury. This is a huge reduction and I believe it has to have some significance.

Do we have the new, revamped Auror Office to thank for this? It is possible, but in practice I have seen little change in their procedures from last year. I believe something else has seriously weakened the criminal organisation and I just hope I'm right. Perhaps Wizarding Britain can look forward to real peace in the near future, something none of us have dared hope for since the upturn in activity in 1994 and given our society's inability to guard against random attacks.

"I think we're looking at the reason for Malfoy's anger. If they are weakened, it has to be some physical effect on their leader. Lord Voldemort is a fanatic, but a charismatic one. Without his input the organisation does not have the power to cause trouble. Only by cutting off the head of such an organisation can it be stopped."

"You think Voldemort is dead?" Harry asked.

"I'm not sure," Severus mused. "While I would love that to be the case, I think we'd have heard. It's not the sort of thing they can keep hidden forever. No, not dead perhaps, but I think he's suffering, maybe from some magical disease that is causing a loss of his magic."

"That would be wonderful!" Harry enthused, causing Danyel to look up from his game of gobstones and clap his hands. "But is it likely? What could cause it?"

"He regularly handles Dark materials; something might have cursed him, I suppose." Severus looked really thoughtful now.

"I know that look," Harry teased. "You've got an idea, haven't you? Tell me?"

"Certainly not. I do not tell you each and every random speculation that comes into my head. Unless I have some evidence I will not speculate," Severus said, frowning. But Harry could see the glint in his husband's eye and it was enough to set him off again. He reached over, touched Severus' hand and whispered, "Come to bed?"

Severus saw Harry's pleading expression and the heat that radiated almost visibly from his husband's body. He was more attuned than anyone else to Harry's moods because of their bond. Severus had noticed Harry's frequent arousal, but had waited for Harry to come to him, not wanting to put any pressure on his pregnant husband. But the invitation was there tonight, and his eyes glinted with desire as he said to the others, "We will retire. I think Harry is quite tired this evening. Have fun, all of you."

As they exited, Harry heard Richeldis whisper to George, "Tired? I didn't think he looked tired. But I bet they'll be having some fun." George's chuckle was the last thing they heard as they closed the sitting room door.

Severus fell on Harry, kissing him urgently. Harry responded instantly, clasping his husband tightly and opening his mouth, welcoming him in. At last Severus had responded to his hints.

"Bed," Severus rasped, almost incoherent for once. His young, urgent, lusty husband was back again. Harry's previous months of sickness were forgotten and he was ready for Severus' attentions.

Harry didn't answer but tugged Severus towards their bedroom, his need and desire evident. Pushing the bedroom door closed behind them the two men started tugging at their clothes until Harry cast a wandless Divestio to speed things up for already he was hard.

Severus pushed them over to the bed, Accioing the lube when they got onto the bed. He handed it to Harry with a meaningful look and Harry groaned. Severus spread himself out on the bed, lying looking up at Harry. Harry's hand trembled with excitement, his husband wanted it quick and with little foreplay and Harry was glad of it, he just needed to sheath himself in Severus' body and work off his sexual energy.

Harry slicked his fingers and gave one or two strokes to Severus' cock where it lay on his belly, hard, flushed and hot. It felt really good to hold Severus' erection, but he didn't have time to linger; his blood was pounding in his ears and his cock was twitching with need, dripping precome onto the sheets. It amazed him the way he got hard instantly and was so needy since the pregnancy had settled down, but he wasn't about to complain, and Severus' hot glances made him doubt his husband would either.

Harry slipped his fingers behind Severus' balls and back to his opening. He swirled, slipped inside and massaged Severus' prostate. Severus gasped his pleasure.

Harry slipped two fingers inside and scissored them. He was impatient but was annoyed with himself when he realised that Severus had seen it.

"Take me quickly, Harry," Severus groaned, and he scrambled up onto his hands and knees, presenting himself for Harry.

Harry wasn't about to argue, but he took a few seconds to appreciate the sight of Severus, Master of their Community, on his hands and knees presenting himself. A jolt of excitement coursed through him and Harry gasped. Severus looked over his shoulder to see if anything was wrong, but Harry's fierce, passionate expression told him all he needed to know.

And Harry was in him in one long, sure stroke. Severus cried his delight at the sensation of being filled so assuredly. Harry hadn't topped very often but already he was becoming confident. Severus never stopped moaning as Harry's pounding started, both urgent and loving at the same time. The wash of Harry's emotions through their bond was like being born away on a tide, the current too strong to resist. Not that Severus wanted to resist and he tilted his hips with each of Harry's thrusts, wanting his husband to become part of him.

The aura of sweat, desire and emotion that surrounded the coupling was thick and heady. There was another element there too, a third, more gentle strand to the weave they were twining. Neither man stopped to examine it, but both were aware of it. The undercurrent of family.

When Harry emptied his seed into his husband, and Severus clenched in welcome around the gift, the child jumped with joy. And Harry felt it.

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Chapter 34: The Expert by Rakina

Chapter 34: The Expert

Harry was brewing a batch of Staywell Juice and Severus was rapidly preparing ingredients for his next potion when they were interrupted by the arrival of a visitor.

"Excuse me for interrupting you in your workroom," Lydia said, popping her head around the door. "There's a visitor here to see Harry. I've put her in the sitting room."

"Me?" Harry was surprised. His only visitors were Neville and Professor Sprout and they always wrote to him before arriving. "Who is it?"

"She said she was Healer Diggle from St Mungo's Maternity Department," Lydia said, smiling.

Harry was amazed. He hadn't known St Mungo's had a Maternity Department, though of course he realised it must have. Why had a Healer come here?

"I sent an owl to St Mungo's about your pregnancy, Harry. They must have sent Healer Diggle in response."

"Oh… yes, I remember you mentioning it a few days ago," Harry said, blushing. He'd forgotten all about it in the excitement of his life at the moment. It was a good job Severus was still thinking properly.

"We'd better both go and see her," Severus told Harry as he wiped his hands and left a stasis charm on his ingredients. Harry did the same with his cauldron and they left to find Healer Diggle.

As they entered the sitting room a woman stood up from an armchair. Healer Diggle was tall and slender but big-boned; she looked as if she could play midwife to an elephant. She thrust out her hand and said, "Semiramis Diggle. Pleased to meet you."

Harry took her hand and she gripped his hand firmly before dropping it. "Er… why are you here?"

Severus grinned at Harry's ridiculous comment, but before he could say anything along the lines of 'that's rather obvious' the Healer spoke again.

"Well, you're pregnant, aren't you?" Her bright blue eyes shot to Harry's belly and she gave a slight nod. "Yes, I can see you are. You need a midwife, young man. And not just any midwife, you need an expert. We all learn the theoretical principles of male pregnancy during our training, but no one has had the privilege of seeing it for centuries. As I'm the acknowledged expert in my field at St Mungo's, you get me, and I'm as excited as a house elf baking his first birthday cake, I can tell you!"

Harry wasn't quite sure what to say to that. Did birthdays make house elves happy?

"Yes, I'm an expert in magical pregnancies," Semiramis continued in her hearty tone. "Usually that's couples helped by fertility spells and potions – oh, congratulations on your new potion, Master Snape," she said, turning to Severus and thrusting out her hand again. "I just delivered a baby for a couple who'd been trying for two decades. Your potion is the best I've seen."

Severus grinned and took the proffered hand. He rarely shook hands with people, but to refuse the midwife's hand would be foolish. They needed her help and there was no point upsetting her. "Thank you. I hadn't thought of going to St Mungo's with Harry. I was hoping he could give birth here on Eigg, as the prophecy implies."

"Prophecy? Is there a prophecy involved? Well, I can see there might be, this whole situation is very unusual, but it would be foolish giving birth without expert assistance."

Harry handed the framed prophecy to Semiramis, who took it and read, her lips moving as she read the verses to herself. "Wonderful!" she exclaimed when she'd finished it. "And more than one child, Mr … is it Potter or Snape now?"

"Snape. But just call me Harry, please."

"Harry it is then. Yes, this is wonderful. A prophesied baby. Really, that gives me a heap of confidence – not that I wasn't confident before, you understand, but now… well, it's just good news all round. You must both be very happy."

Harry and Severus smiled at each other.

"And I see no reason why the child should not be born here, with my help of course. Providing the pregnancy goes as normal, that is. Well, may I examine you?" Semiramis removed her wand, a long, pale, willowy stick that Harry thought was very attractive. "Please remove your robes and undershirt. You'll need to undo your trousers as well."

Severus elongated the settee and Harry took off his robes before laying down on it. Semiramis said a spell that Harry didn't recognise before passing her wand over Harry's abdomen. A strange, sloshing sound could be heard; it was rhythmical and the men realised it was the baby's heartbeat. The witch smiled at them. "Yes, that is your baby. Sounds healthy enough, doesn't it? Ah, the womb is reading just like a woman's would, that's good, very good… it's in a deeper position, which could be tricky, but it is rising through the abdominal cavity and expanding outwards in the right way, so that is good. Hopefully it will be plain sailing from here to the birth. The delivery will need to be magical though, and I'll have a think of the best way to do it. There are a couple of options open. Now, would you like to know the baby's sex?"

"Oh! Er… Severus, what do you think?" Harry asked.

"I think if we're going to have several babies, it really doesn't matter which sex this one is. We know it's twice as likely to be a boy as it's the baby of two wizards."

Harry pondered. "I'd like to know. Is it a boy, Healer Diggle?"

"Semiramis, dear. Don't stand on ceremony. Or just Semi if it's too much of a mouthful. Damned ancient names. Oh, and yes – it's a boy."

Severus clasped Harry's hand and squeezed. "Wonderful," he whispered.

Harry, not caring about the time and the place or that he was being attended by a stately witch, an expert in her field, turned to Severus and beckoned him closer. They kissed, and it went on quite a while, so Semiramis backed off discreetly and busied herself writing notes in a well-used book which she pulled from her pocket. When the couple parted and Severus sat quietly beside Harry again, she turned back to them.

"I estimate the baby has about twenty weeks until he's born. He is well grown for his dates and I detect no problems at this stage. Are you eating well, Harry?"

"Yes, I'm eating like a horse!" Harry admitted. "Now the sickness has passed I seem hungry all the time."

"That's good – just as long as you're eating healthy food," Semi said.

"If you suggested anything else in the hearing of our cook you'd be in for an uncomfortable time," Severus said. "Miranda feeds us all a healthy diet and she fusses over Harry like a mother hen."

The witch nodded happily. "At this stage it's important to eat well. And get enough rest, Harry. You probably feel quite well –" Harry nodded. "– and it's easy to get carried away at this stage. But your body needs enough rest to grow a baby. Now, I'll come once a month at first, then more often when I think you need it, so I'll see you again around the Equinox."

"We have rites here at the Equinox," Severus said. "Could you come either the week before or after the 21st?"

"Very well," Semi peered into her notebook again, consulting her calendar. "Shall we say the 17th?"

"That's fine," Severus said; Harry nodded. If Semi thought it odd that Severus made all the decisions she did not say so. Couples varied and all that was important to the Healer was the welfare of the baby. One thing did concern her about the older man's dominance however. "Sex. I presume you're still having it?"

Harry blushed and seemed taken aback, so Severus answered for him. "Yes. Is that a problem?"

"No. It's important for the couple to maintain a healthy bond. But it's not wise for the bearing partner to be involved in anything too rough." As Semi saw Severus starting to frown and open his mouth she hastened to add, "there is no problem to having sex as long as the penetration is done in such a way that it won't disturb the baby."

"I'm not sure what you think two men do…" Severus' voice sounded dangerous, "but I can assure you that I would never hurt Harry or the baby. Since the early months I have ensured that Harry is…in control of our lovemaking. And that is all I will say on the subject." Severus' glare would have stopped a herd of rampaging hippogriffs. But Semi was an experienced midwife and fierce in her own way, especially when she was protecting 'her' babies.

"See that you do, Mr Snape. This is a very special pregnancy and I'm sure you would not want to risk it."

Harry half expected Severus to shout and tell the woman to leave, but it seemed that Semi's insistence on the child's welfare went down well with the Potions master. What he said next surprised Harry.

"Would you care to join us for coffee?" Severus asked, and Semiramis agreed.

Seated in the kitchen with a fascinated Miranda and chatting over their coffee and biscuits they got to know a little about the woman who would be intimately involved with Harry's care.

"Your name is familiar," Severus said. "Diggle. We have a regular visitor to the Community named Diggle."

"Oh, that must be Uncle Deedee," Semi said with a grin. "He's always involved in some project or another. What does he do here?"

"He's learning calligraphy from our librarian."

"He's your uncle?" Harry sounded rather dubious.

"Yes. Why?"

"He doesn't look anything like you – he's such a funny little man," Harry said, then realised he might have just insulted his midwife's family. But Semi was laughing.

"He is indeed, and one best taken in small doses, Harry. He doesn't quite know how to interact with people, but he has a good heart. It's a shame he gets chucked out of so many places for saying the wrong thing. You've not thrown him out yet?"

"We… make allowances," Severus said. "As long as he abides by the Community rules while he's here, he's welcome."

"I see you all work hard," Semiramis said thoughtfully as she looked at the Rules of the Community scroll which was framed on the opposite wall. "I wouldn't want Harry getting overtired, especially in a month or two."

"The Community requires work from all its members," Miranda said. "But only as far as it's in their ability to provide it. In return, all members get what they need in support. As Harry gets more needy, others will help him. There are plenty willing to assist, in fact I think he gets a bit fed up with all the offers of help. The whole Community is excited by this baby, Healer Diggle. I think everyone thinks it's the Community's baby. I reckon they've all gone broody. Even Josiah has his mind on something besides grapes, for once."

"I don't usually go on so much," Semi admitted. "It's just everything has to be perfect for a magical pregnancy, and doubly so for a wizard birth. It's such a rarity."

"We know," Severus said, taking Harry's hand.

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Chapter 35: Equinoctial Gales by Rakina

Chapter 35: Equinoctial Gales

By the time Semiramis arrived in September Harry was blooming. His belly was distended and obvious to all. He felt genuinely pregnant and it made him happy. The baby kicked more obviously now and he was regularly reminded of the living presence within his body. It excited him every time he felt it. Whatever he was doing during the day he couldn't seem to stop smiling, even when he was chopping up flobberworms. Lydia and Richeldis spoke knowingly of the happy, glowing months that would last until Harry got unwieldy at the end of his pregnancy.

Severus was as busy as ever and as serious as ever in his role as Head of the Community. In early October he had to punish Danyel again for breaking some of Miranda's crockery. Harry hated watching his husband beat the boy, but he understood the Community had to abide by its own rules. If exceptions were made things would fall apart, for everyone would believe they were an exception and the rules would be ignored.

During the relaxing evening gatherings in the sitting room Severus was more open than he'd ever been before. He smiled often as he sat beside Harry; they were often hand in hand while they talked or played chess or Scrabble (a Muggle game Harry had brought with him to the island and that everyone had soon learned to enjoy). Everyone had noticed the changes in their Master and knew it was due to Harry and their bond. Harry seemed to have cured the side of Severus that had been so fierce at times, so scary when he lost his temper. The man was still as charismatic as ever, but it was easier to relax around him now.

Richeldis knitted and crocheted in every spare moment and Harry had a growing pile of tiny clothes for the baby. Josiah had made him a non-alcoholic grape juice drink which he enjoyed, and Abigail had gone shopping in Ayr several times to pick up baby items for the couple. Harry knew Jamie had gone with her, and he thought Severus knew it too. Abigail seemed happy; she had been so relieved that Harry was pregnant and not suffering from some life-threatening illness. Harry often saw her casting wistful looks at his belly and he wondered just how close Abigail and Jamie's relationship had become. He didn't press her though; she'd tell him when she was ready.

Miranda continued her self-appointed task of making sure Harry ate the best foods for growing a beautiful baby. Harry teased her by saying that if the food had anything to do with it his baby would be the most beautiful since Cupid. Severus had added that it was unlikely that any child of his would look like that, for the baby would probably have 'a nose'. Harry mock-punched his husband. "If our baby looks just like you, Severus, I'll be the happiest person alive," he'd said, hugging the man he loved. He hated that Severus sometimes thought of himself as unattractive; to Harry he was perfect.

Peace reigned in the Community until the day before the Autumn Rites. Severus told Harry he would have to stay at home and Harry was indignant.

"Severus, my bottle is full and I feel really well. I should be there."

"It is a long walk; you will tire yourself."

"I walk every day for exercise. Semiramis told me to be sure to do that at her last visit, you know she did."

"Yes, but the boundary walk is excessive for a pregnant man."

"I've never felt better in my life. Since the sickness went away I've been so well, you know how well I've been. I'm fed better than an army of athletes and I'm hornier than a herd of goats! I need to go, Severus. I can add so much to the rites this time. I think my semen will be more potent than ever while I'm pregnant."

Severus frowned at his husband. Harry had a point there. He was a powerful influence for fertility. He was a male with a full wizard bottle, but he was also pregnant. Severus had marvelled at the frequency with which Harry craved sex now. Severus knew Harry masturbated during the day when Severus was busy elsewhere but he showed no reduction in their activities at night. Severus admitted to himself that he was having trouble keeping up with his pregnant husband's libido.

"You know I'm right," Harry said, seeing Severus' face. "I can walk as well as anyone in the Community."

Severus gave in, with conditions. "We'll walk more slowly than normal. And we'll stop at every stone for a break. Miranda will supply extra food and you'll drink an energising potion before we start and at each stop."

"Okay," Harry said, smiling. "Just as long as that energising potion doesn't taste too foul. What are you going to put into it? Or do you have some already brewed?"

They got started on the discussion of the potion, and Severus let Harry brew it himself after explaining what he put into his own version. They both agreed on a few changes to make it appropriate for a pregnant recipient. The whole exercise was fun and Harry was looking forward to the next day.

Harry had been right that time. The Autumn Rites went well and the Earth seemed to suck up their offerings with enthusiasm. Perhaps that was just because the earth was parched after a hot, dry summer but Severus thought it was something more. He admitted he was pleased with the addition of fertility that Harry's semen would surely provide.

In mid-October the first Howler arrived. It was a rude shock at their peaceful breakfast table. The group had been busy discussing the autumn tasks in their own specialties. Harvests were in and there was processing to be done in the honey rooms, the wine cellar, the kitchen and farmyard. An owl bearing a red envelope skittered to a rough landing in the centre of the long dining table, then headed over to Severus. Everyone went quiet.

"I'm sorry about this," Severus said, taking the envelope. There was nothing for it but to open the wretched thing.

It's your fault, Snape! The Oracle of Darkness never lies! It pointed to you! You and the unnatural freak you shelter within your walls! The magic is fractured, it will not work and it's your fault! Do not think we will ignore this - you will pay!

Abigail squeezed her father's hand, Harry put his hand on Severus' arm and Danyel was openly crying.

"Be calm," Severus said over the noise. Such was his presence that they all fell silent, except for the odd moan from Danyel.

"This is more of the same threats from Lucius' group, I'm certain of it. What we are doing here on Eigg is strengthening the positive forces within the British Isles. The only magic that will be fractured is the Dark kind. And as that no longer works we have little to fear, my friends."

"How can my pregnancy do that, Severus?" Harry asked.

"Going by historical reports, Harry, both the prophecy and Merlin's writing, Merlin was able to control magic throughout the British Isles as well as his own. I assume that you are the focal point from which power is reaching out through the magical web which connects all magical folk in these islands. Unseen but powerful, the web forms a canopy over us all, a network we can tap into. The process works both ways but most witches and wizards are not strong enough to affect the web, they only make pinpoint variations in the field around themselves. You are so far beyond that, so much stronger especially now you are pregnant. The magical pregnancy has altered your own field; you are influencing the magic all around you and far beyond. Your magic is overwhelmingly positive and Light: a force for good. It will not disrupt everyday magic, or those who cast for good reason. The Healers at St Mungo's are probably noticing an increase in their powers. But those who practise the Dark arts, who cast for greed or malice or any other negative reason, will find their powers weakened, perhaps absent altogether. That is something to be very proud of, Harry."

Everyone was looking wide-eyed at Severus and Harry.

"I realised Harry was the Blessèd Boy, we all did," George said. "But I never had any idea it would mean so much to the rest of Britain as well as Eigg. We are blessed, indeed."

"It's wonderful," Richeldis sniffled, shakily dabbing at her eyes with a hanky. "I never thought I'd live to see such things. Harry will make our world more bearable, it will be easier for those who don't follow the mainstream."

"Which is all of us here," Josiah agreed, nodding. "Eigg is our sanctuary. But maybe what Harry's doing will help all those who can't come here to cope with their everyday lives."

Harry was feeling overwhelmed. He'd just got used to being pregnant, and now it seemed he was affecting the entire wizarding population of Britain! He wasn't sure he wanted to do that, but he doubted he had a choice. He, the boy who'd been treated as an odd outsider all his life until he met Severus, was going to alter everyone's lives.

Severus saw Harry's uncertainty and decided to distract him; he got to his feet. "Come, Harry; we've work to do."

Harry followed his master to the Potions rooms. When they had entered and closed the door, Severus turned and took Harry's hands. "Stop what you're thinking right now. I can see it in your eyes. You're special, Harry, but you're not a freak."

Harry felt tears welling up, he swallowed to try and stop them falling. "It's all so much…"

Severus pulled him into an embrace; the ever-growing bump solid between them. "It's a lot, I know. But it's just because you're so special, Harry. I knew you were different, the first time I laid eyes on you. But it was a good different. Because of you, things are going to get better for a lot of people. Not huge differences, just little positive changes in their lives that will be happening because of your magic. They'll never know it, may not even notice the changes, but it's something you should be proud of. And for Eigg, and our Community, things will change a lot. I can't even begin to predict what will happen when the baby arrives."

"It's all about the baby, isn't it? About my ability to have a baby and the change in my power."

"Yes, it is."

"Then I should be glad, because I really want to have your baby, Severus."

They kissed; the kiss was gentle, then increasingly deep and full of emotion. Severus realised that what they were experiencing as a couple was unique in modern times. He could feel their child nestled between their bodies as they embraced, safe within Harry's belly. Severus already had an endless supply of protectiveness towards his young husband which had been increased by their bond, but now he felt a surge of power flowing through him. The power to protect his husband and his child, the power he received as a father. His own childhood had been dismal, his father a failure on many levels, and Severus vowed with every fibre of his being that he was going to be good for Harry and their son. He could not understand why a person like himself should be so blessed to be part of a prophecy, and he could empathise with Harry's confusion over that as well. Their joined power was of the Light – he had felt that every time he had touched his husband intimately and the power had started to flow through and around them.

A few days later their work was interrupted by the arrival of two visitors. Miranda bustled up to the Potions room door that afternoon, knocking on it with a still-floury hand. "Master Snape, there's visitors. A young man and a woman here to see you. Insist it's you they need." Miranda was slightly out of breath and her message had come out in a rush.

"Where is Lydia? She deals with visitors."

"She's away in Ayr, Master, giving a talk. And these folks is insistent."

Sighing, Severus put stasis charms on his cauldrons. "Stay there, Harry," he said. Harry was writing an essay at a desk in the corner, partially hidden behind a stack of reference books.

"Yes, Master. But please call me if you need me." Harry was careful to be deferential to Severus in his role of Master.

Severus smiled, shook his head slightly, and left following the agitated cook.

Seated at the refectory table with steaming mugs of tea were Draco Malfoy and his mother.

"Mrs Malfoy, Draco," Severus said, nodding at each of them. "What is so urgent that you had to disturb my brewing?"

"Forgive us," Narcissa said, before Draco could speak. The young man closed his mouth reluctantly but let his mother continue. "My husband tried to visit you this morning. When he came home battered and bruised we were naturally concerned."

"Bruised? I have not seen Lucius since-"

"It's your wards," Draco said pointedly. "They repelled him; he was knocked down and scraped himself on the rocky ground."

"Ah. It is true I changed the wards to keep him out. After his last visit he is not welcome here. I do not take kindly to being threatened in my own home."

Narcissa paled, though it was a marginal difference only as she was pale to start with. "I am sure it was a misunderstanding, Master Snape," she said in her softest, most persuasive voice.

"And you have come here in his stead?"

"I wanted to talk to you myself. Lucius is in such a state – the Pure-blood Alliance is in some disarray."

"You should not be saying these things!" Draco interrupted. "Father would not want you to tell Master Snape of his problems. The man threw Father off his property!"

"Hush, Draco. You do not know why your father came here today. Now let me speak," Narcissa's voice was not so soft now. To Severus' surprise, the young man quietened. "As I said, I am sure it was a misunderstanding." She looked at Severus for help.

Severus did not give her any. "Lucius verbally attacked my husband. He said dreadful things that I could not permit in my home. I… persuaded him to leave. I have changed my wards as he is not welcome here any more. You and your son have not been excluded, but I cannot imagine what I can do to help you. But if there is anything you need from me, please ask. I will do what I can, but my first duty is always to my husband and the Community. I will do nothing to jeopardise either of them."

"Just an explanation, Master Snape, that's all I need. Something is going on, and those who are learned in such things say the disruption is coming from here. Why is my husband's magic being affected?"

"My husband is a powerful wizard. He has a type of magic unknown since ancient times that enables him to carry children. That magic is changing the whole network of British magic, flowing out from here and through our country. The changes are wholly positive, a strengthening of Light magic. The only magic that is being disrupted is some of the Dark arts, and then only the use of Dark magic for evil intent, if I understand the prophecy correctly."

"The prophecy?" Narcissa sounded confused. Severus pointed towards the framed text on the wall and Draco got up and walked over to it. He read it aloud and his mother listened carefully, asking him to repeat the verse that read:

'On the Island of Eigg when the Blessèd Boy stays

All Britain once more will be whole

Then there'll be no power in cruel Dark ways

And evil will lose its last soul.'

"How do you understand that, Master Snape?" she asked.

"It becomes clearer by the day, Mrs Malfoy. Now Harry is part of the Community his magic is affecting the island of Britain, becoming part of a whole that the rest of us are rarely aware of. The disruption of the Dark magic is stated by the prophecy, but only the 'cruel Dark ways', that is to say when the Dark arts are used for ill. We all know the well-worn argument that Dark magic can be used positively. Now it is the only way in which it will be able to be used." Severus couldn't help smirking at Draco's angry face. He knew the young man depended on the Dark arts to boost his own personal power and influence. Now he'd have to fall back on his personality and more conventional magic, and Severus thought Draco Malfoy would find that a struggle.

"And the final line – evil losing its last soul?"

Severus looked straight into Narcissa's eyes. "You know what that means as well as I do. Someone evil, with 'souls' in the plural? He will be destroyed."

Draco sat down and sank his head into his hands. His mother ignored him. "Who can fight prophecy? The effects of your husband's magic are being felt in our home, hundreds of miles away, so I believe what you say. It is a time for much thought; a new order is forming and only fools will be left outside. I am not a fool, nor am I raising a fool." She put her hand on Draco's back. "I will report to my husband all that I have seen and what you have told me. I will return, Master Snape, if you will allow me."

"You are welcome here, as are all who honour my marriage, my husband and my Community."

Narcissa stood and Draco followed. The young man still looked uncertain, uncomfortable. Severus had not expected miracles, but Narcissa was an intelligent woman who could see the way the wind was blowing. Whether she could talk sense into her husband was another matter. Lucius was a proud man whose opinions were too extreme for Severus these days and Severus knew Harry hated him.

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Chapter 36: And The Earth Moves by Rakina

Chapter 36: And The Earth Moves

As the year advanced towards its end and the daylight lessened, Harry got larger. His size began to affect the way he walked and Severus made sure he didn't stand for too long. Semiramis started to visit twice monthly from October and she was full of good advice on how to minimise backache and prepare for the birth. Although Harry's delivery would be by surgical means he could still get his body ready for it with toning exercises and regular rest with his feet up every afternoon.

Based on her latest scan of the baby Semi predicted a due date of Christmas Day. Severus could see that Harry thought this was significant and he wondered if perhaps it really was. The whole pregnancy seemed surrounded by magical and mystical meaning far beyond the normal creation of a baby, as miraculous as that was in itself, and to the Muggle-raised Harry Christmas Day was as significant as the solstice. Severus knew they were all part of the midwinter festivals celebrated around the world.

Severus stopped having sex with Harry in November. Nothing was said, but Harry was getting too tired and bulky to be able to penetrate Severus, and Severus did not want to tax his husband by topping himself. Instead, they spent their time in bed holding one another and exchanging loving touches. Severus would stroke Harry to orgasm sometimes, and occasionally let Harry reciprocate, but mostly he just wanted to provide the comfort of his presence. He knew Harry was getting nervous as the delivery date approached, but Harry wouldn't admit it to Severus and would hardly acknowledge it to himself.

On the 15th of December Harry was ushered to his seat at the breakfast table by Abigail. Miranda put his breakfast in front of him, serving him herself. Harry had tried to protest once or twice – he was neither incapable nor a child – but Miranda had been keen to help him in some way, to 'do her bit', so he'd given in gracefully. Now she made a fuss of him at every mealtime.

The regular post owl appeared with the morning's Daily Prophet. Severus took it and opened the paper, scanning the headlines. The news had been upbeat lately; the Wizarding world seemed to lack any major problems and it was a novelty he hoped would never wear off.

IS THIS A NEW AGE FREE FROM THREAT? The headline made Severus smile. The article pointed out the long period of time – several months – since any dangerous Death Eater activity had been reported, from anywhere. The world seemed to be free from the menace that had plagued it for years.

Severus showed Harry the paper. Harry read it and smiled. "Why do you think this has happened?"

"You know my thoughts," Severus said. He clapped his hands and everyone looked up from their breakfast. "My friends, it seems the wizarding world has been freed of the curse of the Death Eaters. Peace has broken out and the Dark activities they had been responsible for are conspicuous only by their absence. We know that malignant Dark spells are not possible these days, and we know why. Because of Harry's pregnancy, because of the fulfilment of the prophecy of the Blessèd Boy, we have entered a new era of peace. The power that covers the Islands of Britain is a power of Light, as promised by Merlin himself. This power cannot force people to be nice to one another, cannot stop physical or verbal abuse, but it does prevent the misuse of the Dark arts.

"Once Harry's – the Blessèd Boy's – baby has been born, I expect this just to get better. I am very privileged, very honoured, to be his husband."

There were murmurs of assent and then Abigail started to clap and all the others joined in. Danyel called out, "Hooray for Harry!" and clapped loudest of all. Harry's face was as red as one of Argus' prize beetroots by the time they'd all quietened again.

"Master, without you none of it would have happened," Harry said. "You established this Community, and all my friends here have made it a place where I could feel at home. Without this place on Eigg I don't know what would have happened to me, but I do know I would not be as happy as I am now. You are part of the prophecy too, all of you, and I thank you for giving me a home. And most of all I thank you, Master Snape, for making me your husband and giving me this baby."

Harry had rested his hand on his large belly as he made his speech. By the time he'd finished Richeldis was dabbing her eyes with her cotton hanky and Lydia was smiling like a Cheshire cat.

"Well said, Harry," Jolyon cried.

As the breakfast ended, the men started to talk about the Solstice Boundary Rites.

"There's no question of you coming this time, Harry," Josiah said with a smile.

"I know. But I have a little in my bottle," Harry said.

"If it's only a little it can stay until the Spring Rites. Or I could take it for you," Severus said.

Harry looked unsure. "I don't know…"

Severus patted his hand. "I'll check tonight. Don't worry about it, Harry."

"We're lucky with the weather," Jolyon observed. "Not much snow yet. Let's hope it stays that way until we've done. Then we can all get cosy before the worst of the winter and enjoy Christmas."

Christmas. The baby's due date. Harry's heart leapt and the baby nudged him in the ribs. Harry grinned and patted his abdomen. Soon, little one.

And they were lucky. The weather had held. The wind was bitingly cold but the skies remained blue and cloudless and the snow stayed away. On the morning of the shortest day the men were up very early and ate quickly. They donned their layers of outdoor clothes and their stoutest boots and Severus took the food supplies from Miranda. Severus had Harry's bottle as well as his own in his cloak pockets and with everything prepared he gave his husband a final hug.

"We won't be long, Harry. And when we're back we'll settle in and get ready for the birth." He gave Harry a lingering kiss, not caring that the Community members were all standing ready to watch the men leave for the rites that ensured their safety and the viability of this far northern land.

Harry nodded and pasted a smile on his face, waving as the men started to walk out the door. He felt like he wanted to cry but wasn't sure why. Perhaps because he was missing the rites, perhaps because he wouldn't see Severus all day and he'd got used to depending on his presence. Perhaps because it was a gloomy, dismal day out there, the first day the sky had lost its defiant blue colour.

Severus' small party of fertile men tramped towards the North Stone, the Guardian of Winter. With each step further from the heart of his Community he felt more uncomfortable and he had to tell himself sternly to keep going. The Community needed this magic and it was his responsibility to provide his Community with what it needed, now more than ever. The large stone came into view, solid and uncompromising, and Severus was glad the rites were underway.

"Guardian of the North, reminder of winter and darkness, we offer you our reverence and awe."

The words seemed to land on the stone and disappear into it somehow. The air felt flat and oppressive. The men turned their backs on the North Stone and headed to the east, starting their circumferential journey.

Harry was feeling tired. It was something of a normal state for him now, in what was hopefully the final week of the pregnancy. At the start he'd not believed in the baby; his stomach had remained flat and unimpressive and December had seemed almost a lifetime away. But the months had passed and the pregnancy had become undeniably obvious to all. The impact it had on Harry had increased until now it had become his everything. His studies had slowed and his output of potions had dwindled to very little. That had made him feel a little guilty, especially with the workload Severus had faced in the run up to Christmas. But Slug and Jiggers had been supplied with the last of the big crates of their products only yesterday and now they were going to concentrate on Christmas at the Community, and the baby.

Harry's back was aching and the practise contractions he'd been having for the last couple of weeks were insistent today. He stood quietly and let the cramp-like pain pass, breathing calmly as Semi had taught him to do. She'd told Harry the pains would get stronger the closer he came to the birth.

Harry decided to go for a lie down in his bedroom. He told Miranda where he was going and said he'd try and have a little nap.

"Good idea, love. You do that and Severus will be back before you can miss him." She smiled her motherly smile and patted Harry's shoulder.

As Harry headed for his bedroom he thought that was impossible; he'd missed Severus as soon as he'd walked out of the back door. Harry got himself comfortable, it was much nicer to get his feet up and lie on his back. He sighed contentedly. But he didn't sleep because the niggling cramps returned, a little more fiercely. He frowned. They were coming back quite often. Could that mean they were genuine contractions, not just the practise ones he'd had intermittently until now?

Semiramis had given him her Firecall address and urged him to call her if he was at all concerned, but Harry didn't want to bother her with a false alarm. Lydia had told him how she'd had her midwife out three times before she'd finally gone into labour, and by then she'd been so convinced it was another false alarm that she'd been quite far on before she'd called again.

Harry felt confused. Should he call Semi or not? The heaviness in his lower abdomen, like a pressure on his much-abused bladder, and the cutting cramps low in his gut just above the pubic bone were getting more insistent. He knew Severus would want him to err on the side of caution, and the thought of his husband had him up and waddling over to the Floo powder container.

"Semi, are you there?"

Silence, nothing but the spitting of a fire which might be his own or the one at the other end.

"Semi?"

"Yes, is that you, Harry?"

"Yes. I – I've been having some pain, Semi."

"Is the pain there all the time, or comes and goes?"

"It comes and goes."

"How often and how long does it last?"

"It doesn't last long, just a minute or so. I don't know how often, sorry. I've been trying to nap."

"Okay, well I'd better come and have a look. You get back onto your bed, Harry."

The Floo flared and Semiramis Diggle stepped through, the bag containing her midwifery kit slung over her shoulder. She soon examined Harry with quick, efficient movements of her wand and her hands.

"You're only four days from your due date, young man. It could well be the time. Please lift up your legs and spread your knees."

Harry had long since lost his bashfulness with Semi. She examined him frequently and so matter-of-factly that embarrassment wasn't an option.

"There are signs of activity. But I'll need to check when you have the pain again. Tell me when it starts, Harry."

As they waited, Semi chatted about her Christmas shopping and how impossibly crowded Diagon Alley always was the week before Christmas. "I hope you've not been out to London lately, Harry."

"No, Severus wouldn't let me. I – oh!" Harry tailed off as the pain started up again. It was sharp and couldn't be missed.

Semi placed a cool hand on Harry's distended belly. She smiled as Harry breathed through the cramping pain. "Well, well. Your time has come, Harry. The womb is cramping, ready to expel the baby. We must take the little one before the stress gets too much. Where is Severus, by the way?"

"He's on the boundary wards doing the Solstice Rites," Harry said, trying not to panic. He wanted Severus here, now.

"Have you a way of contacting him?"

"My owl –" Harry's breathing was getting faster; he was beginning to feel a bit panicked. He wanted Severus. Now! Severus!

As the men approached the East Stone, Severus thought he heard something. He halted and his followers nearly bumped into him, stopping with muffled grunts of surprise. Severus cocked his head, trying to catch any sound that might have travelled on the wind. Nothing… and yet, he was sure he'd heard something.

"What is it, Master?" Danyel asked, confused.

"I'm not sure. Did anyone hear anything?"

"Only the wind. It makes queer noises at times," Jolyon said.

They walked on; the East Stone was within sight.

"I'll just go back to the hospital and fetch a duty nurse, Harry. I won't be gone more than a few minutes. You'll be fine. Do you want one of your friends to sit with you while I'm gone?"

Harry couldn't think, he couldn't seem to do anything but long for Severus' presence – he couldn't do this without his husband. This baby was Severus' as well as his and Severus had to be here or Harry couldn't give birth… not alone.

Semi squeezed Harry's hand. "I'll call Miranda." She hurried out of the bedroom.

Moments later Miranda was there and the midwife Flooed away. Miranda held Harry's hand. "We need to get Severus back. I told George to get your owl, Harry."

Harry nodded in something of a daze, hearing her words but not really making sense of them. SEVERUS! Please… I need you.

Severus had just spoken the invocation to the East Stone when he was stopped in his tracks by a voice. It sounded thin and far away, borne on the wind that blew incessantly and mercilessly across the island in winter. Severus…. I need you.

"Harry!" Severus turned to Josiah. "Josiah, I need you to finish the rite for me. You know the words. When you get back to the North Stone pour the offerings. Here, take mine and Harry's. The stone might not be happy, but it is better than leaving the rites unfinished. I have to get back."

The older men all realised why Severus had to return and wished him good luck. Danyel was confused by the change in their routine though. "Where's Master Snape going, Da'?"

"Back to the Community, Danyel. He's needed there. You just concentrate on helping us get this rite finished, boy. It's more important than ever that you help now there's just the three of us."

"Okay." Danyel grinned, cheered up by the thought of being important. The men resumed their walk of the wards as Severus Apparated back to the main buildings.

As the sky darkened and snow threatened to fall for the first time that winter, the three men hurried on towards the south. The day felt brooding and ominous. The Earth seemed to be waiting, holding its breath; the very air they breathed seemed thicker than normal. They managed to finish the rites and started back to the Community just as the snow started to fall. Josiah shivered, though it was not the cold that did it, it was the feeling that swept over him. It felt like the prickle of needles over his skin, but warm like the burn of too much sun.

"Did you feel that?" Jolyon asked.

"Yes, and before you ask, I've no idea what it was."

"Da' –" Danyel's voice quavered with fright as they all noticed it at the same time. The earth beneath their feet, the hard, rocky earth of the island of Eigg, trembled as if a shiver passed through it. "Da'!"

Jolyon pulled his boy close and hugged him tight, as much to comfort himself as the young man in his arms. Danyel sobbed in fear and Josiah shushed him. "'Tis over, boy. It's stopped."

The shiver, the movement under their feet, had passed. The air felt clearer, less oppressive. Jolyon sighed with relief. "Josiah's right. It's done. Come on, let's get back and see if the others noticed it."

Back at the Community all was in uproar. The earthquake, if that was what it was, was ignored. For the joyful sounds of celebration met the three men as they walked into the kitchen. Miranda had opened a cask of fortified wine and everyone appeared more than a little tipsy.

"He's been born!" Abigail called out when the men came in. "Here, Dad, have a drink. It's wonderful – he's the cutest, sweetest little thing in the world!"

And he was. Harry and Severus' son had been born half an hour ago by magical surgical delivery performed by Semiramis Diggle assisted by the child's father, Severus Snape. Harry had been awake but hadn't felt a thing beyond some warmth and tugging in his lower half. But he'd heard the cry as the babe passed into the midwife's hands and he'd cried himself as he saw Severus helping clean and welcome their son.

William John Snape might be the possessor of unpretentious names (at his older father's insistence) but he was a miracle in many ways. As his little voice had first echoed on the island of his birth, the Earth had welcomed his arrival with a shiver of recognition. The child had stopped crying once the trauma of his first breath had passed and he now lay in Harry's arms, sleepily observing the folk who kept staring at him as if they couldn't believe he was really there. His eyes were of the darkest slate-blue colour; it was the colour all British babies' eyes were at birth, but it was the darkest version of it. His head was covered in surprisingly thick, black hair and Severus was right – he had a nose. But Harry, and everyone else who saw him, thought he was quite the most perfect example of a small human being that had ever been seen.

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Chapter 37: After Birth by Rakina

Author's Notes:

The fluffy ending aforementioned...

Sweetness warning.

Chapter 37: After Birth

The subject of the baby, the earthquake and the drama of him being born in the middle of the Winter Solstice Boundary Rites, were all well discussed by the Community. Owls had started to come and go at frequent intervals as magical folk outside Eigg reacted to the epicentre of magical power that was coursing around the island. Amidst this maelstrom of activity, the tiny baby slept peacefully, gathering his strength after the trauma of birth.

Semiramis had shown Severus a spell to cast on the baby at night time. It surrounded the child with a protective barrier that ensured his safety in the middle of their bed, and William had slept surrounded by the love of his two fathers – in the flesh as well as in their hearts.

When congratulatory messages started to pour in, Abigail brought them to Harry and Severus along with the copy of the Daily Prophet. When neither man showed any interest in the wizarding world's daily paper, she spoke up. "You might like to look at the paper, Master Snape. Just the front page will do." Abigail was dreadful at hiding things and her eyes were twinkling with pleasure.

Harry looked up from his sleeping son's precious face. "It sounds good."

Severus unfurled the folded paper and gasped.

Voldemort dead - verified!

Harry peered over Severus' shoulder. "Let me see, Severus."

Severus did better than that, he read aloud: "The body of the wizard who liked to be known as Lord Voldemort was discovered late last night in a house in Yorkshire. The wizard's real name, it has been discovered, was Tom Riddle. By the state of the body he probably died yesterday. With his death, the wards fell around the house in which he was found and its sudden reappearance caught the attention of the local Muggle police force. When they entered the house, which seemed empty and abandoned, they finally found Riddle's body in a bed on the upper floor. Their newspapers are full of stories about 'black magic' and 'Satanism', their usual reactions to the discovery of anything connected with the Dark Arts.

"No official cause of death has been announced, and we would doubt the Muggles' ability to discover the truth. They will probably conclude it was that old stand-by 'heart failure'. But this paper's source, who saw the body as it was removed from the house, describe it as 'strangely peaceful'.

"Following the activities of Riddle's secret society, the 'Death Eaters', over the last decade few would have expected such an anticlimactic end for the Dark wizard. A battle, a curse, a rare Wizarding disease, all of these might have been expected… but 'peaceful'? It hardly seems fair that this man should die like that, when he has been directly or indirectly responsible for the unnatural deaths of scores of magical and Muggle folk."

By the time Severus finished his reading, Harry and Abigail were wide-eyed.

"But… how?" Harry asked, cradling the warm bundle against his chest and breathing in the unique baby scent of his son's hair.

"I think it has something to do with this little man," said Severus as he reached out to run a long finger down the baby's cheek. "He has had rather an impact, quite literally. There was an earthquake at the time of his birth – as if the birth wasn't miraculous enough already. And I would be prepared to bet this year's wine harvest that Voldemort died at the same time."

"It's all in the prophecy," Abigail said happily. "The wizarding world will change, has changed, for the better." Her bright eyes sparkled with joy and Harry sighed with relief. The world his son would inhabit would be a better one. William's childhood would be a very different one from his own. His son would grow up in a magical community where he would be valued, where all the members were valued, surrounded by the love and discipline that went with it.

The next morning Harry, Severus, and William in his moses basket, went to breakfast with the Community. Everyone stood up and clapped when they walked into the dining room. Harry blushed, Severus nodded acknowledgement, and William opened his dark eyes and looked around as if wanting to find the source of the interesting noise.

"Come and sit down, Harry." Miranda pulled out Harry's chair and ushered him into it as if he was a fragile egg in danger of cracking. "How are you?"

Harry smiled. "I'm very well, Miranda. Really. Healer Diggle fixed me up after the birth and now I've rested I feel really good."

"But you mustn't rush about and overtax yourself," Lydia said with a mock-stern look. "That little man needs you to be well."

"Are you breastfeeding?" Richeldis asked. "You'll need extra nutrition for that."

Harry blushed. His breasts had leaked a little after the birth, but he hadn't wanted to try and breastfeed his baby. It was just too much for him – too female an activity. He knew he was probably being irrational, he'd just been pregnant and given birth and there was little that could be more female than that, but the idea of putting the baby to his sensitive, swollen nipples had repelled him. Severus had assured him it was okay, and they'd promptly started to bottle feed the baby, which Severus said he preferred because he could do it too. "No… we're bottle feeding him."

"Oh, good!" Danyel said, clapping. "Can I have a go? I feed the orphaned lambs sometimes. I'm really good at it!"

Harry smiled. "I'm sure you are, Danyel. Maybe when the baby's a bit bigger, more settled. I want to keep him for myself for now."

"Of course you do!" Lydia agreed. "It's only natural."

And as the Community ate together and chatted, Harry began to feel it was just that. Comfortable, natural – his home, Severus' Community, and now William's home too. He suddenly realised how hungry he was and helped himself to bacon, eggs and sausages and a small mound of toast and butter.

Christmas was the most joyful Severus could remember since he had come to Eigg. And by extension, his most joyful ever. Help arrived in the form of Pomona Sprout and Neville who'd planned to come all along and they arrived a couple of days earlier than intended so they could help out. They brought Tansy Wainwright with them. Severus had kept in touch with the interested girl and invited her for Christmas. If Tansy was planning to join the Community it would be good if she could spend some private time with them first.

Neville was unexpectedly taken with the process of child care. Harry supposed he shouldn't have been surprised, it took a nurturing nature to make a good Herbologist and these two were the best. They were also competent enough potions brewers and took over the production of Staywell Juice to enable Severus to spend time with Harry and William. The Community settled around the new guests like a comfortable garment, so seamlessly did the Hogwarts visitors settle in.

Everyone was getting ready for Christmas day, helping with cooking and decorating. Because of the events on the Solstice their usual post-rites celebrations had got postponed, so Christmas was to be their more important feast day. Harry hadn't managed to get presents for everyone and he felt rather embarrassed, but Severus kept telling him he'd given the whole of wizarding Britain the best present it had had for years. Still, he'd have liked to give personal gifts. He knew everyone understood, so he determined to do more for their birthdays throughout the year.

William was becoming more of a presence now he was a few days old. He cried more frequently and more loudly when he wanted attention or feeding. Harry thought it sounded wonderful, but Lydia assured him he would lose that feeling soon enough. Harry just shook his head at her. He didn't think he'd ever be able to hear enough of his son's voice. The pleasure of holding the baby, of feeling him here, really in the world at last, was something that was making him feel rather spaced out every time he picked William up. Nothing else seemed to matter; Harry's world had concentrated on the small body in his arms.

On Christmas Eve, as they all relaxed in the large sitting room, Pomona was sitting with Richeldis chatting about the knitting the older woman was doing. William would grow quickly and Richeldis had started on the next size garments to make sure he had enough to last him until spring. Neville came and sat next to Harry and Severus, hoping to get to hold the baby.

Harry knew what his friend wanted. He was surprised and amused to see Neville's interest in their son, so he handed William over to him.

"Harry, he's wonderful," Neville gushed for the umpteenth time. "I know it must have been really weird being pregnant, but if this is what you get for it, I wish I could do it too."

"One day you'll get married, Neville. Then you can be a father. You don't have to give birth to the baby yourself for that," Severus said.

Neville grinned. "I suppose. It's just I'm not very good with women."

Harry laughed. "Better than me, I bet."

"Oh, well, yeah… probably," Neville said, blushing.

Neville cast glances at Tansy as she sat with Professor Sprout. She was currently holding up a sweet, lilac, angel top and cooing over it and Harry noticed Neville's interest. When he caught Neville's eye and winked, Neville blushed a furious red more quickly than Harry would have thought possible. So that was the way the wind was blowing…

So comfortable, so right did the group feel that Severus handed round tots of Josiah's best elderberry wine. The deep, red wine only came out on special occasions.

"Severus, this is wonderful," Pomona Sprout said, raising her glass. "I do love coming to Eigg. It's a shame I can't manage it more often."

"Well, Pomona, you know you can always come and join us," Severus said, smiling.

Pomona had always declined his offers before, claiming she was 'too well rooted' at Hogwarts. But this time, she looked thoughtful. "You know, Severus, I might just consider it," she said.

Harry noticed that Professor Sprout was watching Neville who'd gone over to chat to Tansy. Tansy was coming to join them, Harry was sure of it, and maybe Neville would follow. Harry would love having his only school friend here with him and he knew Neville would love working in the gardens, perhaps conducting his own research and experiments while Tansy learned the brewing of potions. Harry could imagine just how much Neville would enjoy the fertility rites. He smiled.

Severus leaned and whispered in Harry's ear. "You're matchmaking, aren't you?"

Harry smiled and slipped his arm around Severus' shoulders. "Am I that obvious?"

"To me." They exchanged a quiet kiss while the others chatted and William was cooed over by Abigail.

Abigail had been fascinated by William in a slightly different way from the other members. Harry could feel her longing when she held the baby and knew Abigail's relationship with Jamie had become serious. Abigail had told him so, but asked him to keep it to himself, so Harry hadn't even told Severus. He knew the problems they faced in the wizarding world as a whole, let alone the vexed position of her status in a magical community if she married a Muggle. Yes, Argus lived here, but he was a squib used to the wizarding world. Master Snape's Community was, and had to remain, invisible to the Muggle world and the islanders in particular.

So when Abigail stood up and said she had something to announce, Harry was not surprised.

"Master Snape, Mum, Dad, all of you," she said, her voice conveying her nervousness. "I've got something to announce. I know it might surprise some of you and I know it will affect my life here, but I've got to say it. I've made up my mind: I'm getting engaged. I want to marry James Grant. He's a Muggle, a fisherman here on Eigg."

A silence descended. Harry looked anxiously at Lydia and Josiah. They looked resigned and Harry was glad Abigail had prepared them for her announcement. Then, he looked at Severus. Severus was frowning into his elderberry wine, silent for the moment. Harry felt conflicting emotions from his husband. Despite that, he couldn't help but feel for Abigail. She was his good friend and he had met and like Jamie Grant very much. Harry stood up and went and hugged Abigail.

"Congratulations. I hope you'll be very happy," he said when he released her.

As if it were a cue, Argus and Danyel stood up to offer their congratulations. No surprises there – Argus was a squib and could hardly show prejudice, and Danyel didn't understand or recognise the undercurrents.

Severus stood up and offered her his hand. "Congratulations, Abigail. I do hope you will be happy. However, I know you will understand that James cannot come and live with you here."

Abigail looked into his dark eyes with tears shimmering in her own. She looked as if she was struggling not to let them fall. "I know," she said, her voice cracking. "I love it here, I never want to leave, but I need him, Master Snape. He's my other half, in every sense of the word."

Severus nodded. "I will talk with you in private. Come."

Abigail followed Severus into the smaller, more private sitting room. The community watched them go. Lydia had a pained expression on her face; Josiah was looking at his knees. Harry had a sudden fear they'd leave, the whole family, and the Community would be so much poorer without them.

The mood had become sombre. Hardly anyone spoke beyond cooing over the baby. In the sudden silence the click of Richeldis' knitting needles sounded as loud as a grandfather clock's ticking and measured the slow passing of time as effectively. It was getting quite late, but nobody moved to go to bed. The unresolved business hung between them. Not a sound could be heard from the next room, not even the muted rumble of conversation, and Harry suspected Severus had cast privacy wards.

It was a relief when they heard the door open and Abigail walked out, straight-faced. She went and sat by her parents. Severus came and stood in the centre of the room. He didn't have to ask for their attention; everyone's eyes were riveted on him.

"Abigail understands that she cannot live here in our magical community," he began, and Harry heard several exhalations of breath that surely denoted disappointment. "However, she can continue to work among us, if that is her choice. Her husband is a Muggle. Any contributions he can make will be purely physical, but even that has its place. But it would not be appropriate for him to live within a magical community, nor would he feel comfortable to do so. Therefore, I have offered Abigail the choice of living in the Guest House. Her husband could be the caretaker as well as continuing his fishing if he so wishes. Muggle technology is not allowed here in the Community buildings, but is allowed in the Guest House even though the magical folk who stay there rarely use Muggle devices. The house is near enough, but it is not within our Community. If anybody has any objection to this plan, they can either speak up now or come and see me in private. If I hear nothing by Boxing Day, I will assume you are all happy with this proposal."

As Severus stopped speaking and took his seat next to Harry, everyone started talking at the same time. Abigail was soon surrounded by excited, happy people shaking her hand in relief. Josiah and Lydia were obviously happy – Josiah's rich chortle rang out several times and Lydia was dabbing at her eyes like a matron at a wedding, which is what she would be very soon.

Harry put his hand on his husband's knee. Severus' emotions were much calmer now, content even. "Our Community is growing, Severus. James and Abigail may soon become parents, I think. Abigail's become obviously broody since William's birth. And if Neville and Tansy come – and I think they will – and perhaps Professor Sprout too, we will have plenty of workers next year. I'm so happy for you," he said, squeezing Severus' bony knee.

Severus looked into Harry's unique, green gaze. He smiled gently. "It is since you came to Eigg, Harry. It all started to change that day you came on your school trip. I feel a completely different person when I look back…" Severus sounded quite mystified.

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Chapter 38: Of Light And Of Joy by Rakina

Chapter 38: Of Light And Of Joy

As the new year began, Healer Diggle returned to give Harry a final checkup and examine William to see if he was thriving. He was – the little boy had put on six ounces since his birth, a wonderful sign of his wellbeing. He looked into the eyes of the woman who delivered him as if he was really considering her, weighing her up, with eyes that looked much older than his few days of life entitled them to.

As Harry tucked him William into his moses basket that evening, he turned to see Severus enter their bedroom.

"You're early, love. Are you tired?"

Severus smiled in a way that made Harry realise that tiredness was not his husband's problem. Harry smiled back and went over to offer his lips to Severus. The kiss was long and deep and their bodies entwined with the ease they'd grown to expect. It was sometimes hard to stop it happening when they were with the others – a simple kiss could escalate into a sensual, undulating dance before either man was aware of it.

Harry pulled back and urged Severus over to their bed. He was suddenly urgent, fired with a rush of passionate need, and pulled at Severus' clothes. Severus wordlessly spelled the clothes away and their naked bodies closed on each other, slipping into the ecstatic contact of bare skin. "I want you, so much –" Harry gasped.

Severus pulled back and looked into his husband's face, unsure of just what Harry meant.

"Please, Severus. Semi said I'm fine, back to normal. And I want you, so badly."

Severus could feel Harry's heat, both from his body and his emotions flooding their bond. Harry did want all of him, everything. Severus cleaned and lubricated them both with magic and slipped into Harry's body at his husband's urging.

Harry didn't want to wait, couldn't stand the emptiness any longer. His Severus had not been part of him for too long. During the pregnancy Harry had topped until he got too big, and after that they'd not practised penetrative sex. The wash of familiarity and fullness as Severus entered made Harry cry aloud his sheer sense of completion.

"I've missed this so much," Severus moaned. "So much…"

The frantic urgency to get together had drained away, leaving a wonderful reality that was their joined selves. The rhythm they started was both totally familiar and yet unique as they moved together. It was as old as existence but as fresh as their evolving love, which had been renewed by William's birth. Now they were bonded more closely than ever. Their bodies showed it as they thrust against each other, sparking their nerve endings to life, breathing rapidly and kindling magic all around them until their bedroom sparkled more vividly than the Christmas tree in the sitting room.

In his moses basket, William John Snape opened his eyes and watched the magical light that surrounded him with love. He smiled.

FIN