PearlM21: And the plot thickens!

Thank you to everyone else for your wonderful reviews! Xx

"Don't allow your wounds to transform you into something you are not."

– Paulo Coelho

CHAPTER 27: Firelight

November 15th, 2002

[Dawn Rheingold]

The more Dawn convened with Harry in regard to Severus' downtrodden mental health and his struggles readjusting back to a normal life, she found herself paying more attention to him as the days went by.

And it wasn't as if she ignored him before because she could sense his troubles from miles away, but every little flicker of the man's hooded eyes and his willingness to sidestep certain questions raised many of her concerns. Severus had returned to Hogwarts over a few months now, and there was still an unsettling sense of darkness and strange dread within him. His struggle to remain somewhat sound did not go by unnoticed for her.

She noticed the way he'd twist his hands within his lap at the Great Hall during mealtimes - that is when he did decide to show up. She noticed the way his eyes glossed over and became cold and empty, staring into the nothingness as he drank his goblet of whatever he desired to drink. She noticed the way his eyes scanned the students, only quietly averting them when he'd caught sight of one shrink a little within their seats upon that watchful gaze. She noticed that he was always the first to leave during meals and staff meetings, even sometimes neglecting to support his Slytherin team during their achievements. She noticed when his thinned lips twitched as if to say something but remained silent. All those words he possibly wished to express, but within his mind, were deemed unworthy and useless. She noticed when he'd venture away from certain parts of the castle, avoiding whatever memories he wished to evade that were lurking there. Sometimes she'd catch him stopping himself and turning back, even if that meant he'd take a longer route. She noticed when he relaxed somewhat around Potter but tensed with everyone else. She noticed when he remained silent when everyone else was engaged in conversation around him, sometimes appearing bored, or would roll his eyes at a colleague's attempt at humor. She noticed when Severus would grow anxious, as evident as the trembling hands by his side.

She even noticed when Severus would gently nudge Potter when the boy, too, would be caught in his own drifting mind. Well, Potter was no longer a boy, and there was a quiet, fatherly affection Severus had for him in times when he assumed no one was watching.

Dawn smiled - they were quite the pair. They appeared to know each other so well. They had faced hardships together, and even though she would never know the true extent of it, she could see the comfort they had in each other's company. And for a man such as Severus, that was quite the miracle.

But the familiarity upon Severus' demeanor struck a sensitivity within Dawn. She had seen this before with the children she had rescued in her early Auror days. Abused. Neglected. Treated as if they were not worthy of their own blood. The way he interacted with others displayed similar signs, and with the experience in her previous area of expertise, her heart went out to him. And the more Harry spoke kindly and honestly about him, the more intrigued she became by the man himself. Of course, he was a difficult one to have a conversation with. Often he was dismissive and uninterested in interaction that was not Harry or Minerva, but at times, she tried. He was trying his hardest to avoid many people for some innate fear of the vulnerability of his past remaining at his forefront.

In fact, she was rather surprised he had approached her in the Restricted Section some weeks ago.

But the pain was so evidently there, and she was drawn to it. She could see the pain in his eyes, even though she knew he tried his hardest to hide that pain away. Perhaps he was using Occlumency, she wasn't entirely sure, but he appeared to be distant and empty behind them.

But gaining his trust was difficult. She wasn't sure what she was expecting, but she was so drawn in her desire to help him, that she was willing to be patient with him during his readjustment back into Hogwarts. His journey was quite obviously a lonely, difficult one, but with the War officially over, he deserved some measure of reprieve, even peace.

And she truly hoped he'd find that, in some form.

That Friday afternoon she had departed soon after dinner in the Great Hall and traveled to an urgent letter from Ronald Weasley requesting her presence. According to the letter, there had been a kidnapping of a Healer who had just finished working a shift at St. Mungos. There was no murder scene this time, but Dawn was adamant she was to meet with her team as quickly as she could.

She Apparated directly to the foyer of St. Mungo's, with Ronald immediately ushering her into a secluded empty room. Once silencing spells were hastily cast upon the door, Dawn returned to face the younger man.

"What happened?"

"A Muggleborn woman was kidnapped. Miriam Meek. She is a Head Healer of the Spell Damage Department, at St. Mungo's, " Ron explained, shoving his hands within his brown robe pockets.

Dawn crossed her arms over her chest, "Was she attacked?"

Ron shook his head, "Witness says she was following a man who it appeared as if she knew him. She failed to turn up to work today, which is unusual for her."

"Sounds like the work of Polyjuice Potion, " Dawn responded, diligently, "Who was the witness?"

"One of her colleagues. Rowan is speaking to them now, " There was a heavy pause, leaving Ronald with worry in his deep-set gaze, "Dawn, what do we do?"

Conflicted, she lowered herself onto the vacant chair behind the empty wooden table, "I haven't got the faintest idea."

"Muggleborns are being killed, some have been taken..."

"We keep searching."

"Searching for what?! My fiancé is a Muggleborn, Dawn! What should I do? I need to keep her safe."

"The Ministry is the safest place as any. She'll be safe there, " Dawn tried to reassure him, but there was no denying the slight panic in his words.

"Yeah, I'm not always sure about that. We've had imposters there before, hell I've done it - " Ron made the effort to stop and inhale deeply before he joined Dawn seating next to her. He leaned forward onto the table, with his head hung off his shoulders, "At what point do we take this seriously?"

Dawn was shocked by his question, "We are taking this seriously."

He looked up directly at her face, "No. When do people need to be aware of this? Before the next Muggleborn is taken? It could be a Half-Blood next or even a Pureblood. It doesn't matter. People are being taken."

"You're right – it could be anyone, " Dawn said, sternly, "But this must not get out. I've told you this before – we can't allow the public to know this, otherwise it will be utter panic and chaos. We have to retain order - "

Ron suddenly slammed his hand upon the table between them, "No!"

Dawn flinched slightly, and yet her heart went to him, "Ronald, I understand. I do. But this is out of my hands. We may not be ahead of the game here, but we are gathering more pieces of the puzzle with every case. We will continue to hunt for those responsible and apprehend them. Unfortunately, they are sending us chasing our tails, and they very well know it."

Ron nodded but appeared defeated, "Sorry...I'm just worried."

"You need not apologise to me. You're frustrated with this, as I am," Dawn's voice softened, "Go home to your fiancé. Be with her. I'll reach out to Rowan and receive an update from him."

The young man nodded again, "Thank you."

Bidding the Weasley farewell, she watched as he departed once again. She buried her head in her hands, wondering what on earth they were to do next.

Making the magical world safer after a devastating War, was far more difficult than she ever imagined it to be.

November 22nd, 2002

[Harry Potter]

"Just relax, Severus. It'll be fine."

"Stop telling me to relax. A Quidditch match is the last thing I wish to be doing on a Saturday."

"I'm going to keep telling you to relax until you actually do. Besides, I snuck in some Cornish pasties, and I refuse to eat them all by myself."

"You little thief."

Harry smirked, "Don't let me suffer Ricket's wrath on my own."

Harry and Severus walked together on a cloudy, yet cool day, toward the Quidditch pitch for the first official match of the season. Ravenclaw and Gryffindor were squaring off, and since Harry had been actively directing their coach, he was really looking forward to being a spectator this time. Severus was reluctant to go off course, but with much convincing, Harry was able to sway the man in his favor and pry him away from the dungeons even for a few hours.

It was strange to be sitting in the teacher's stand with the others, as he'd been so used to sitting with his own house in the stands. Harry and Severus sat towards the back, stealthily eating their haul of savory snacks as if they were sneaking Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes' products under Umbridges' nose, with Harry discreetly passing one to Neville who was sitting directly in front of them. He could see Minerva at the corner of his eye and watching the unruly pair with the most conservative amusement she could muster. Dawn and Filius were at the very front of the staff stand, trying to out-cheer the other in all of their friendly competitiveness. From Harry's view, he found this rather entertaining. And he could have sworn he saw Severus smirking underneath his raven locks, trying to be discreet with his own amusement as possible.

And for a moment, Severus looked content.

"Your new Beater could use a little more precision, " Severus mumbled to Harry beside him, as the Beater flew by the stands in pursuit of a wayward bludger.

"Holden is fine and able."

"He's sloppy."

Harry had to bite back the urge to chuckle, in his bid to remain serious, "Oi, Severus, stop roasting my team."

Severus smirked darkly, "No, I'd much prefer to keep roasting them – "

" – Will you two put a cork in it?" Minerva scolded, but behind her pointed hat, was a shadow of a grin. Harry and Severus glanced at each other; every bit as rebellious as they felt at that moment and continued with the match eventually ending in Ravenclaw's defeat.

Once the match concluded and the students began to disperse back to the castle – some senior students heading towards Hogsmeade Harry, and Severus followed the pathway back to the castle in their casual stride. Dawn Rheingold was quick to depart looking yet again, stricken, causing the pair to exchange an odd glance. Harry could see Severus' brow knit together, and the little wrinkles on his forehead creased slightly in concern. That was Severus' subtle way of indicating that he too, felt something was wrong. Harry had noticed Dawn becoming increasingly worried over time, and he knew that Severus sensed that, too. Perhaps it was the case they were currently on, which also raised some little alarm bells within Harry's mind. For a sickening feeling, he felt as if Ron knew a lot more than either of them perceived, and the unknowing created a worrying pit within his stomach.

Dawn, being as secretive as she was, hid her worries well. If she wasn't commanding her students in the classroom with such enthusiasm and authority, he wouldn't have assumed any different. Between classes she was casual, even messing about in the Great Hall when she sat beside Severus sometimes. A woman with such a young heart still seemed wise beyond her years, and her light-hearted manner masked something far deeper. An inner trouble she was certain to keep within, and Harry felt the familiarity of that.

Of course, Dawn reminded him of Severus, and neither was willing to open up and share their past with just anyone. He could see sometimes when she tried to reach out to him, despite her obvious personal stressors, and yet found it imperative to try and help someone else with their own troubles. Sometimes he would even catch Dawn speaking with some of the young students in confidence, from either House, as sometimes those students were too afraid to see the school counselor.

And yet somehow, with all of her tenderness, were able to ease their fears and anxiety.

She was able to calm them.

After corresponding with Hermione and Ginny by owl for the remainder of the afternoon, Harry received a message from Severus later on in the day.

Harry,

Is your mind ready to attempt another Occlumency lesson tonight?

The weather is abysmal tonight. My private quarters, this time. Your shields are well-frozen over, and I'll be forever trying to thaw them out.

And no more Cornish pasties, Merlin forbid, I need not approach a House Elf to extend my innerwear.

Severus S.

With a loud chuckle, Harry scribbled a response back at once and leaned back in his chair. He was glad the man was regaining his sense of humor again. Today seemed like one of his good days, and it was rare to see him in such a less dour mood. He noticed that when it did happen, he was far more light-hearted in his humor rather than his usual dark, moody, and morbid ones. It was a welcoming change for sure, and that made Harry smile.

The night was cold, so they logically decided to move the Occlumency lesson to Severus' private quarters this time. The fireplace burned with a welcoming warmth as he arrived, and with the casual day they shared, he had hoped it would be enough as an icebreaker for Harry's mind.

Ironically speaking.

"Any further morsels of food, and I'm throwing you straight out, " Severus spoke, as Harry shut the door behind him.

Harry innocently raised his hands in surrender, "I brought nothing this time, I swear."

"Good, " Severus instructed to the sofa across from the fireplace, "Make yourself comfortable."

Smiling to himself rather gleefully, Harry breathed a well-needed sigh, soaking in the much-needed warmth from the fireplace as he did so. He found some comfort in being here, and it was strange to find a place within the dungeons that were actually inviting, aside from the usual cold dampness of the stone walls. Perhaps Severus used added domestic enchantments to ensure no one would freeze down here but knowing the man's personal space was actually unlike the murky potions laboratories, brought him some ease of mind.

At this point, Severus appeared in casual wear, adorned in his charcoal grey pants and black buttoned shirt. The Mark on his inner left forearm well concealed in his carefully buttoned-up long sleeves. Even Harry was barely able to see it at all, as it still brought Severus so much shame.

"Hey, Severus?"

"Hmm?"

Harry bit his lip, wondering if he should even mention it at all, "What do you think of Dawn?"

Severus frowned, with his dark eyes boring into his own, "Care to elaborate?"

"I mean, " Harry gave a quick shrug. Even he didn't even know what he was trying to say, "Have you ever noticed her leaving often? She's always in a hurry and more so these days."

"She's an Auror, " Severus responded simply, "She has other important work to attend to, rather than wrangle insolent children."

"I know that, but I don't even get any information from Ron about it. They work together."

"Why should they be so obliged to indulge your curiosity? Their work is highly confidential and has nothing to do with you."

Harry winced, "I didn't mean it like that. I guess…Well…Not knowing worries me."

"That is why both you and I are now Professors. Leave the Dark Wizard hunting to those who are dedicated to pursuing them…Professionally, " Severus said, emphasising that last word with a glint of warning to Harry.

Harry's lips thinned, "Don't you ever worry about it, though? About who's still left out there? Surely there must be some Death Eaters still roaming around."

Severus paused for a moment, until it ended with a small shrug, "It is no longer a concern of ours. We've both done more than enough of it, have we not?"

"I suppose so, " Harry bit his lip, but he wasn't satisfied with the answer he was given.

"As for you, " Severus warned him, "You have enough in that scatterbrained mind of yours that requires particular attention."

"Is that your way of saying 'get on with it?'" Harry smirked.

"In less colorful terms, yes, " Severus pulled out his ebony wand from the hem of his sleeve.

Harry reshuffled his backside on the sofa, which he was consistently doing since the chair was so comfortable, however, it was making him feel sleepy. He needed to do whatever he could to remain awake and focused, and dozing off on Severus' sofa was not an option. As enticing as it was.

The older man settled himself in a kneeling position in front of Harry, and although it seemed rather uncomfortable, Severus himself seemed unbothered by it.

With a gentle ushering of 'Legilimens' which his voice alone seemed to soothe, Harry's mind began to drift and swirl as though a mist had overcome it.

Harry was aware of how strange the sensations were and as his eyes closed to the connection he established with Severus, he felt his mind encompassed and anchored in such a peculiar way. In his mind, he could see swirls of images, or rather distorted reflections as if he was trying to view them through a body of water. Strange ripples emanated through his mind, preventing him from seeing much at all. He knew Severus was trying and he could hear the man's shallow breaths as he sensed an internal struggle with his attempts. Harry himself tried to focus on his breathing, but he was far too distracted by the man's intent to plow through whatever haze was within his mind.

Some memories would float on by and ones he actually recalled, but some of them were shrouded in a strange fog that became undecipherable. He could hear some voices and sounds from them, but they were so scattered that he was unable to recall when they were, or what was actually happening. It was almost like static from an old Muggle radio, trying to tune into a signal.

He really didn't know what Severus was seeing, but given the blankness he felt in his mind, it didn't seem like much of a successful run. Instead, Harry tried to envision something that might make it easier. Severus' words about the envisioned sanctuary all those years ago when he was overcome by a panic attack seemed of some importance this time and what better way to utilise the things that Severus had once taught him. After all, they were dealing with the delicateness of the mind, and Harry needed to try something in order to retrieve those contained memories again.

Clearing his mind completely was almost useless – given past failed attempts - so he imagined the waves peacefully lapping against the quiet shore at his feet. He could almost smell the salty air as he sat in his usual space close to home, and in his bid to ground himself, he envisioned the rough sand between his bare toes. It was odd to have those senses alive as if he were truly there.

Amongst the peacefulness of the space he created for himself, he could hear the accompanied light and shallowed breathing of another. He wasn't sure if was Severus within his mind, or the man physically sitting patiently across from him.

Either way, he knew he wasn't alone. He was there trying, too.

The sound of the waves gradually eased, and they were replaced by a strange dripping sound that echoed all around him. Then he began to hear other voices, almost in a whisper.

Visions soon drifted to the forefront of his mind – both a combination of ones he recalled with ease and ones he was never able to remember. He could hear the sounds of Molly talking to Fleur in the kitchen of the Burrow…conversations of the Grangers with Arthur…Ginny's comforting words when he felt himself delving into another panic

…This was Easter weekend, he was certain. He had almost forgotten how sad he felt that day, knowing the many who couldn't join him.

…The images quickly shifted and now he felt himself standing at the Yule Ball with the other Triwizard champions and their dates for the first dance…Seeing Ron and Hermione at a standoff, Neville and his rather impressive dance moves, the Great Hall adorned with enchanted snow and Christmas Trees…

That felt like another lifetime.

…The images changed again, this time hearing the screeching sounds of Moaning Myrtle in the girl's lavatory, with himself and Ron watching Hermione brew the Polyjuice Potion…They were so young, there…

Harry immediately heard a snort of amusement, which almost echoed within his mind.

"…So that's where you brewed your Polyjuice Potion."

Harry gave a half-hearted chuckle, "Yeah, I suppose so."

In his Occlumency-induced state, now he was seeing himself wander deeper within the Chamber of Secrets. The murky puddled cobblestone floor squelched beneath his feet and immediately, he could smell sewage overcoming his senses. The unconscious form of a very young Ginny lay helpless beyond the large Salazar Slytherin statue…A screeching of a bird soon swept by, dropping the Sorting Hat by his feet…

"This is what Dumbledore sends his defender! A songbird and an old hat! Do you feel brave, Harry Potter? Do you feel safe now?"

"Dumbledore sent you what? Against the soul of the Dark Lord?!" Severus' deep voice bellowed within Harry's mind, which echoed all around him. It was indeed an odd sound. He never remembered having this kind of experience the last time he had these lessons with Severus all those years ago, but he gathered because he was far more anxious and too on edge to truly focus on the task.

Harry soon winced at the man's voice, fully aware of how silly it sounded.

…The visions of the Chamber continued and now Harry found himself face-to-face with a young Tom Riddle…the soul bound to the diary…the first Horcrux of which was eventually destroyed…

"A child Tom Riddle…very intriguing, " Severus' voice echoed within his mind again, which seemed to wander into the abyss of his swirling memories. Admittingly, it was comforting to have him there, even if he was making the odd statement and narration on the things he noticed.

Harry nodded warily, "Not the memory I wanted to remember, but I guess I know where my fear of Ginny being taken also came from…"

…Harry's thoughts were soon interrupted by the sounds of a menacing hiss from the looming Basilisk ahead –

…Harry's mind felt like he was sucked into a vortex and opened his eyes to find Severus stunned and speechless. The whites of the man's eyes were unnerving to see so closely.

He soon realised why he was quick to break the link, "Oh, no…Severus…I'm sorry…"

Severus became breathless, his face white as a sheet, gripping the hem of his robes, "That was…unexpected."

"Did you want a break? We can stop – "

The man shook his head rather adamantly, " – I'll attempt again. Last for the night."

"A-are you certain?"

There was a small hesitation, before Severus nodded once, "Yes."

Harry drew in a large breath and watched as Severus dove back into his mind again.

…Once again, swirls of memories float on by like dry leaves on the surface of a river. But this time he felt himself plunge into another memory, which took him some time for him to recall. It was dark. That, he knew. Hogwarts castle loomed in the distance. He could hear the sounds of his friends talking from behind him somewhere, but that did not seem important enough for him to look. But one thing that took a moment for him to place, was the additional voice. It wasn't Severus', or Ron's, or Hermione's…

…It was Sirius. His Godfather. The humble sound of his voice was welcoming to hear and he felt his own chest constrict in the joy it gave him to finally remember. He looked beside him to find Sirius standing with him. They were talking. Harry was far too mesmerized by the idea of standing with him once again, to be able to recall the conversation they were having. But after much effort into focusing, he soon realised this was the moment Sirius offered for Harry to stay with him.

As a family.

Harry's heart swelled further the more immersed in the moment he was getting but was soon pulled out gently from the link, to see Severus' face fade back into view.

"Hold still, " Without another word, Severus raised his wand to Harry's temple and gently pulled out a silvery, delicate strand of the memory, and placed it into an empty vial contained in the man's pocket.

Retrieving the vial with much gratitude, Harry smiled sadly at the memory he was finally able to remember, "Well, you hit something. You found a memory I had forgotten…Thank you. This really means a lot to me."

Severus nodded but looked distasteful at the idea of remembering Sirius Black but said nothing.

After a long pause, Harry continued, "It's just so…strange."

"What is?" Severus gently lowered his wand.

"You trying to break in. I hear you, but…" Harry scrunched up his face trying to recall the sensation, "I heard echoes of memories I know that are there, but never could recall."

"We keep trying. If I was able to retrieve some fragments, then we are able to pursue in succession, preferably without damage."

"Well, this attempt was better than the last one at least."

"Not by much, but…slow progress."

Harry nodded agreeably but soon felt as if he was suddenly hit by a wave of exhaustion. He ran his hand over his face, and leaned back on the sofa, gently closing his eyes.

"Rest, Harry, " Severus spoke with the softest, silkiest voice. Harry could tell how slightly disturbed the man was by the memories he found but gave him enough grace and dignity to acknowledge them.

Opening his eyes, his own met Severus'. He was grateful for the attempt, but at least now he knew retrieving lost memories was possible but very tedious and exhausting. And yet he had to wonder if it was just as tiresome to Severus who was trying to break into something almost impenetrable.

After a small pause, Harry watched as Severus settled on the couch beside him, both relishing the quiet comfort of the silence. But eventually, Harry decided to speak. "So…I spoke to Hermione earlier. The werewolf laws will be finalised by the new year."

Severus' brow furrowed, "…And?"

"There will be enough funding to sustain a residence to house those who are either orphaned or since abandoned. Hermione initiated a program to reintroduce them back into the wizarding world, offering jobs and health assistance."

Severus gave a mild scoff, "What does that mean for us?"

Harry couldn't help but smile rather shyly, taking caution to how the man would react to such news, "Expect new werewolf students by next year."

By the look on Severus' face, he could tell the man was not pleased by that. Well, Harry would have much rather informed him early, than suddenly be swamped by an influx of werewolf children.

Now it was Severus' turn to run his own hands through his hair in a seeming defeat.

"Can we at least give them a chance, too?" Harry spoke carefully.

The man looked sharply at Harry, but he appeared conflicted, "I do not have much choice now, do I?'

"There's always a choice, sir. You know that, " Harry sighed, "Look, I'm sorry that things ended up as it did. With Remus, and Sirius – "

" - I wish to forget many things, without consequences. I've endured enough of them."

"What about the things my dad did to you? I mean, surely - "

" - It doesn't matter, " Severus interjected harshly, "I cannot change the past, no matter how much we will it so."

"It's okay to say that it still bothers you, " Harry spoke those last few words almost in a whisper.

"Don't be absurd, it will always be something that anchors me to my past. However - " Severus wavered; his lips twitched as if he was in two minds. The pain in his eyes was obvious, and he could tell that even breathing was a monumental effort. The man took a moment to lean over onto his knees, taking a quick glance at Harry who was watching him minutely, "Harry, I cannot keep allowing it to rule my present. It pains me to recall those events and in doing so, prevents me from focusing on current matters. I need to get a grip and wake up. I need to deal with it and finally let it go."

Harry was silently stunned, even afraid to nod responsively. He knew those words were tough for the man to admit – as evident by his fleeting, scattered glances - and even to Harry, it was rather unexpected. Did Severus finally realise he needed to let it all go? To move on from a painful past that ruled both of their lives. He couldn't imagine those difficulties and the never-ending guilt he faced every day of his life. The anguish in his eyes was very telling and sometimes, it even horrified him to see.

The moment Harry locked eyes with Severus, he smiled. The man blinked, confused until he scoffed under his breath. Harry felt a hopeful warmth within his chest, "That really makes me happy to hear, sir."

Looking mildly sour, Severus eventually nodded. After a long pause he drew in a very deep breath, "I've been in this endless cycle for far too long, and...I'm tired of it, Harry. I'm tired of feeling this burden."

"I know."

"The match today made me realise, that moving on might very well be possible, still, " Severus' eyes flickered, "I've always known it was a problem, I just never knew how to deal with it."

"We never really do, do we?" Harry looked relieved, "But admitting it's a problem is a step in doing something about it."

"I don't even know where to begin."

Harry tilted his head, "Well, you already have. By telling me, and by being here."

He looked mad with himself, casting his gaze away to the flickering flames, "I'm a coward. An emotional bloody coward."

Harry shook his head, upset, "No, sir, you're not. You're one of the bravest men I know."

Severus shook his head in disbelief, managing all but a whisper, "…No."

"Yes, you are. You had the courage to face Tom Riddle, risking being discovered. You had the courage to face my father even while outnumbered. You had the courage to face Dumbledore after you overheard the prophecy. You had the courage to admit your mistakes and uncover everything you had been bottling up for years, even when you were dying. You had the courage to return here, after everything. And you had the courage to admit how you really felt about me..." Severus' head jerked up at the last point, but his breathing labored in a small panic. "You are no coward."

There was a long pause, until Severus gave the faintest twitch of a smile, "Sometimes I feel it was far easier having you loathe me every single day. Emotions be damned."

With a gentle nudge on the man's shoulder, Harry responded gratefully, "Thank you."

Severus flinched, "For?"

"For not hating me anymore."

"I can be surprising, " Severus responded, stoically.

Harry chuckled, feeling comfortable in the man's presence he had so come to respect, "You're always surprising."

After a glance at the clock, Severus turned seriously to Harry, "It's late and you have an early detention to host, and I would like my personal space returned to me."

"Nah, you like my company, " Harry jokingly grinned but managed to pull himself up from the sofa to abide by the man's request.

"Goodnight, Harry."

"Goodnight, Severus. This was nice."

Harry turned to leave, just after taking notice of the small smile on the man's face.

Hope was difficult to find but never impossible.

Even for Severus.

Especially for him.

December 1st, 2002

[Severus Snape]

Werewolves?! You've got to be bloody kidding me.

Since the previous Occlumency with Harry, he couldn't stop thinking about several things – a new werewolf law being one of them. Of course, this wasn't new to him. The Gryffindor had already told him about such a possibility and even suggested he'd assist the Ministry with it. But now it all had been confirmed and that made Severus' blood boil even more.

Adolescent werewolves? The idea alone gave him a headache. How on earth was any of the staff going to manage this? Hogwarts would need to employ extra Healers, specifically those knowledgeable in lycanthropy. They'd have to be a segregated area in the Hospital Wing to accommodate and treat their pre and post-full moon symptoms. And where will the transformed children go? Surely the Shrieking Shack will not be big enough. The idea of cramming how many of them in there, almost made Severus sick at the thought. They were children – not a herd of sheep! No, it wasn't a nice thought. It was actually rather problematic.

And Wolfsbane…That was another conundrum. Surely Minerva wouldn't make him brew the damn thing again, because he knew very well how that turned out with Lupin. He refused to be a liability and the cause of more mishaps.

But all the more reason to brew them, himself…Could he really trust another to brew it?

Severus was indeed at a loss as to what to do. Brewing Wolfsbane was the last thing he desired to be doing this year. It was bad enough having to deal with his own issues and his return to the school again, but this was becoming far too much for him.

Maybe he was feeling hypocritical with telling Harry that he did not want to dwell on such things anymore, but a werewolf?! He was almost mauled by one in his youth! His fear of werewolves was obviously not as horrendous as his continued fear of snakes – that Basilisk was not something he could ever erase from his mind.

Severus shivered at the thought, feeling goosepimples ripple through his skin. He added a dash of violet-hued powder into one of the cauldrons before him, which emitted a small puff of violet smoke. He leaned over to the parchment at its side and scribbled several inked words down. His project was slowly making progress, but still nowhere near completion. He was thankful to have the patience that he did for such interests, as it was a very tedious hobby of his. Of course, such a delicate art cannot be rushed, he needed to approach it with utmost meticulous care. One wrong calculation and everything would end up a magical mess. Although the aftereffects were lessened by the attempt, there was still far too much to tweak.

But at least his experiment was keeping his mind occupied – aside from Harry's Occlumency lessons – and it was a small blessing that he had split the Potions curriculum with Horace. The last thing he wished to be dealing with, was insolent OWL students. That, he surely didn't have the patience for.

Severus was back outside in the cool autumn sun that morning, collecting pine nuts before the rain set in again. Unfortunately, the best pine trees were located close to Rubeus' hut, which further hastened Severus' unpleasantness that day. Once again, he felt a strangeness in his chest, hearing his heart beat a little more wildly. But he didn't feel anxious. In fact, being outside in the silence hearing nothing but the gently swaying trees in the breeze, brought him some measure of peace. But the feeling was unusual, and he couldn't quite place it.

He felt cold, but it wasn't the weather. A chillness within his bones, which felt like an unnatural pull, but the sensation was odd. He simply brushed it off as a strange after-effect of testing one of his potions and thought nothing else of it.

"Good mornin', Severus, " Rubeus greeted, with his mutt Fang trotting sluggishly at his side. "Need a hand?"

Severus pocketed a few nuts within his leather satchel, before he turned to the half-giant, "I've got this handled." It wasn't until Rubeus drew near; did he notice a few dried bloodstains splattered on the man's trousers, amongst damp cakes of mud and the odd attached dry leaf. He arched an eyebrow in interest, "Injured?"

Rubeus crinkled his face in confusion for a few moments before he followed Severus' curious line of sight. It was then he realised how solemn the half-giant was, "Oh, tha'. Another dead centaur."

Severus rose back onto his feet, arching an eyebrow at the man's choice of words, "Another?"

"Minerva didn't tell ya? Blimey, I guess you didn't need to know, " Rubeus threw Fang a treat, and once the aged dog was distracted, he continued, "It's been happening scarcely, but strange. The circumstances, tha' is. The last few years, I've discovered centaurs takin' their own lives. But it's a mystery…That's not in their nature."

Severus stared blankly at his fellow colleague, trying to register what he had just said. He wasn't well-versed in magical creatures, but it really was an odd thing to occur. He knew how secluded and territorial they were, and yet they were taking their own lives? Something was definitely amiss.

But he had to know more.

"Have any investigations commenced?"

"Not officially. Minerva knows, but she has so much else to deal with. Dawn has been looking into it, but her expertise is with Dark Wizards, not…creatures."

"So then, nothing?" Severus responded, bluntly.

Rubeus nodded, "I've been trying to talk with the other Centaurs, but they don't want me anywhere near 'em. It's just – "

" – Odd. Yes, I am aware, " Severus frowned, but more so at the absurdity of it. What in Merlin's name would be driving such dignified creatures to their own death? Not that Severus was fond of venturing into the Forbidden Forest himself, but the entire situation simply felt too peculiar to dismiss so easily. "Where were they discovered?"

"On the other side of the lake. Its head was in the water. It…drowned. The grindylows were gnawing on the poor creature before I got to 'im."

"But that is far from their encampment?"

The half-giant nodded again, "Yer got that right."

"And it's only been the Centaurs?" Severus pressed for more answers, growing more persistent with each one.

"Mostly. Since it started happening more frequently in the last few years, I've been finding Thestrals, unicorns, and even a few stranded merpeople."

Severus paused for a few moments, trying to gather the information that he was just given. Suddenly his thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a dark grey owl, which hastily dropped a letter within his hands.

Good morning, Godfather,

I know, I know. It's been a while. How are you? …Never mind answering that here.

Look, I'll cut to the point. I'm getting eloped with my fiancé tonight. Private ceremony, with a few people. Nothing too public…You know how it is.

Anyway, I'd like you to be there. Would really love for you to be there, actually. I know it's a little late notice, but Astoria and I really didn't want to wait.

Malfoy Manor, 6pm.

Please respond when you can.

Regards, Draco.

Severus stood for a little while, re-reading the letter again before he realised Rubeus was still in his company. He promptly folded the letter and turned back to address him, "I have other matters to attend to, but if and when I have time, I will look into this madness. We can't have creatures dropping dead at Hogwarts' doorstep, without an explanation."

"Your help would be very much appreciated, Severus, " Rubeus looked relieved at that fact and waved goodbye, leaving Severus to dash away.

Leaving the brief company of his colleague, he pulled out a spare piece of blank parchment from his pocket and sent an answer immediately to the waiting owl. Of course, he would accept the invitation. Harry wasn't the only one who he had neglected over the years and his own Godson was also dealing with his own public backlash much like he was. Draco and his family had been careful to avoid public matters and considering the Daily Prophet left the family alone for a while, they obviously did much better at evading people than he did.

But attending a wedding on that Sunday evening was not what he expected when he woke up that morning.

After the letter was sent, he wandered back to his quarters to get himself ready, pulling out the formal dress robes he hadn't worn for a while. In fact, last he recalled, it was previously worn at Harry's own wedding. Considering he didn't quite have the galleons, or time rather, to buy a new set, this one would have to do.

As the evening drew closer, Severus dressed himself, tidied his hair, informed Minerva of his departure for the evening, and set off beyond Hogwarts grounds. Once he Apparated beyond the familiar Manor wards, he made his journey onto the property, taking the main stone pathway up to the front doors.

Already a small gathering was wandering around the elegant gardens at the front, with weather enchantments encasing the podium and chairs to keep the elements out. He noticed a few familiar faces, Daphne – Astoria's sister. Both past students of his. He noticed a few other Slytherins, some of who were currently under his tutelage, but only a few small numbers. Severus himself was surprised Draco retained any friendships at all, and Gregory Goyle's absence meant that he was likely tried and sent to Azkaban for a sentence. He knew he would not have evaded it so swiftly. Amongst the crowd, were a few older couples, that which he gathered were related to the Greengrass'.

Standing aside by herself along the limelight hydrangea hedges marking the gardens' edge, was Narcissa Black, adored in a dark, wine-red dress. Her light blonde hair was pinned neatly at her side, adorned with a pearl-colored flower that appeared to shimmer with a charm imbued upon it. She held a glass of champagne which seemed largely untouched, as she gazed almost sadly at the crowd conversing without her.

Seemingly by cue, Severus arrived on site earning a few strange glares from the other guests, but Narcissa turned to him with almost a sigh of relief. He strode over to her side and bowed his head slightly, respectfully, "Narcissa."

"Severus - I am grateful you decided to show, " The woman flashed a quick, but strained smile, "How's Hogwarts treating you?"

He folded his hands at his front, neatly, arching a single eyebrow, "How do you know that?"

Narcissa exchanged a look of bewilderment, "The Daily Prophet had a field day upon your return to the school. Everyone knows."

Of course. "Wonderful."

"And…other matters?" He watched uncomfortably, as the woman's eyes darted to the mangled scar mostly hidden within his collar.

Severus reached instinctively for his scarred neck, "Manageable."

"Good, " Narcissa offered a small smile, "I suppose at least your life is far more interesting."

"Understatement of the year, " Severus mumbled under his breath. He soon noticed the deep sadness in the woman's eyes, "I never did offer my condolences for the passing of your sister. I am sorry for your loss."

"Better late than never."

Severus' eyes lingered on the woman's tense demeanor, clearly still wounded over her family's loss, "And yourself?"

The woman shrugged a little meekly, "Faring as well as anyone could. I don't venture out much these days."

"I can relate."

The woman gave an almost comical chuckle, "I guess we both still scored the short end of the stick, didn't we?"

"I suppose we did, " Severus' voice trailed away, not quite knowing how to put his own experiences into words. There was a lot that Narcissa didn't know, and he wished to keep it that way. He kept his distance from previous matters just as much as she did. After her assistance with Draco during the rescue in the caves, they rarely corresponded. More for the sake of distant family, if anything. Instead, Severus wished to divert the conversation, "How's Draco been dealing with his father's extended imprisonment?"

"Well…angry. Frustrated. I mean, he should be here to see his son wed. He should be here with us. With me, " Narcissa said, almost in a pleading manner. She took her first sip of champagne, leaving a dark lipstick stain on its rim.

"You know what I'm going to say."

"I know…my husband…" The woman gave a very defeated, miserable sigh, "There was no way he could have evaded it. It's just difficult never knowing when or if he'd ever be released. The Ministry doesn't take kindly to Death Eaters. Unless they are you."

And there it is.

Severus clenched his jaw, "You're still angry that I avoided imprisonment, and your husband did not?"

Narcissa appeared almost annoyed that he caught her implication. She was clearly conflicted, not even courageous enough to look him in the eye as she said so, "No…I…I do not know."

He sighed, "Narcissa, nothing he did would warrant a reduced sentence. I opposed Riddle directly, and consistently. Our situations are not the same."

"I know. I suppose I too, am frustrated, " Narcissa brushed away a small lock of her hair, clearly now making herself upset at the mere thought. "I just want my family whole again. Draco is yet again without a father. And soon he'll leave me to be with his wife and then I'll have no one."

"Draco would never abandon you, " Severus tried his best to provide some measure of comfort to the disheartened woman, but there was really nothing he could do. Or nothing he knew how to do.

Narcissa smiled sadly, "Lately he has been expressing his wish to move away from the Manor. Old memories and all. I don't blame him, really. Knowing the Dark Lord lived with us, does sour the abode quite a bit."

Severus took a moment to pause, "Where does he plan on going?"

The woman's response wavered slightly as if to regather her emotions. Although her eyes watered, her voice unmatched by how she was feeling, "I do not know, Severus."

Well…Bollocks.

Before either of them could say another word, Narcissa gently took Severus' upper arm and led him toward the front of the aisle where the Greengrass family resided. The pair of them sat and watched as movement happened amongst the guests. The marriage officiant – a tall, middle-aged man sporting traditional robes of deep purple and gold, stood by the podium at the front. One by one, members of the wedding party began to assemble, with Draco standing at the very front looking slightly nervous.

Severus felt a sense of pride – the same one he felt for Harry when he married his wife. Draco looked so much older than he had last seen. His hair was neatened and combed, even adopting a light sheen upon his blonde locks. He wore a very formal black suit and robes – the hem of which was lined with silver. As Draco scanned the guests, he met Severus' proud gaze, and in turn smiled in relief at his appearance.

And for a moment, and first in a long while, Draco Malfoy looked happy. Like a weight lifted from his shoulders and moving forward with his life. He was still so young and had so many more years of his life left. A family, he could now call his own and lead his life in a better direction.

It seemed there was hope for some of them after all.

When the ceremony commenced, Astoria was led down the aisle with her father at her side, wearing the most magnificent pearly white dress he had ever seen. The dress itself almost glittered, trailing down the very long trail attached to her dress. It was admittingly, rather mesmerizing. Her dark blonde hair hung in waves down her back, which had been adorned with small crystals.

Throughout the ceremony, Severus caught Narcissa dabbing her eyes with a small, laced handkerchief, at the corner of his eye. A few sniffles could be heard from the Malfoy Matriarch, who was soon to wed her son with another pureblood family. After rings were exchanged and vows were spoken, the newly wedded pair shared a kiss ending the ceremony with heartfelt cheers and clapping.

Severus couldn't help but envision the fitting pair – both Draco and Astoria loved each other so very much and he could see the affection Draco had in his eyes for her. They were indeed good for each other, and he was more than relieved to know that Draco still had an entire future waiting for him.

At least one of them found happiness and Severus was pleased to know that he was alive to see it.

At least by some measure of hope, it was possible, still.