Thank you Zeugma412!

BlueWater5: Only those who know Severus are starting to know the little things. Severus and Dawn are good at keeping up appearances. Yay for being an Auror and ex-spy lol

PearlM21: Thank you so much! It took me a while to come up with the type of celebration, and I didn't want it to be just a Christmas or Eater one. I like the idea of the Hall being covered in bouquets and bright flowers. Like a casual cocktail party, but student-friendly. Draco has also come a long way.

Author's Note: I am sooooo sorry for the really late chapter! It's been a very stressful month and a half, and getting any writing done whatsoever was near impossible. So for those who followed Whatever It Takes, at the very end I wrote the influence to that story with was my father's illness. He deteriorated very quickly and spent a month in hospital, but eventually succumbing to his illness and passed away on 15/03. It's been a very tough journey, and so hence my difficulty with even the thought of writing.

Things will still be a little slow with this story as I get my bearings again, between work after having to lose many shifts because of it all. Thank you for your patience. xx

With that aside, just a warning of some distressing content here in the first segment. There will be some deaths that is needed to elevate this main plot, and more pieces will unravel of what this 'group' is capable of. I will try to avoid being too gruesome, but enough to understand what happened.

Regardless of that, there will some uplifting news, a certain development of two people, and a realisation. Enjoy this wild chapter!

"Sometimes the hardest part isn't letting go but rather learning to start over."

– Nicole Sobon

CHAPTER 39: Garnet and Jade

July 19th, 2003

[Dawn Rheingold]

Dawn sat alone in her quaint little flat just outside of Cardiff, sipping away at her ivory mug of coffee just as the morning songbirds announced the day.

The reprieve away from Hogwarts had been such a lovely break, even though she had spent the majority of the time with her team. Desmond and Ron managed to capture another group member who – like the others – refused to say a thing and would much rather take their own life. So, they had been placed on close watch in the meantime. There had been no other murders since, but the kidnappings of young children and Muggleborn females were increasing rather alarmingly.

There was one Muggleborn female who did manage to escape, but a sudden mysterious illness ended in her death mere weeks later. An additional Auror team was called in to investigate this but came up with not a shred of an explanation. It was unknown as to how she escaped, but her death silenced the true horrors she had endured. Perhaps her illness was fabricated? Cursed, perhaps? Admittingly, even Dawn was not so sure. All she knew was that it didn't seem like just a coincidence.

The entire situation was rather frustrating – Missing Muggleborns, with the only link between them being their blood status. Dead creatures ending their own lives completely against their nature, or reason. A mysterious illness unable to pinpoint its source. Stolen children. And a new cult still at large, yet still remained agonisingly anonymous. The wizarding world was once again in a silent turmoil and yet not a word could get out about it. Of course, people began to speculate about the missing and go about their own searches, but so far, they were able to remain silent on the matter. The less uprising they could potentially deal with, the more they can focus their collective efforts on finding the culprits responsible for these silent acts of terrorism.

Dawn flipped over the page of The Quibbler with a sigh, when her eyes wandered to a smiling family of three –

'Revolutionary Remedy Discovered for those Suffering Permanent Loss of Mind and Self.'

'A historical new discovery of a potion has been set in motion to help regain the lost minds of those inflicted with permanent obliviation, spell damage, and long-lasting ill effects of the Cruciatus Curse. The Memory Reveal potion, or 'Ostendo Memoria', brewed by current Hogwarts Professor Severus Snape, has proven to be an incredible success when Frank and Alice Longbottom have shown impressive signs of a slow recovery. The Longbottom's, ex-Aurors since being tortured by the Cruciatus Curse by Death Eaters in 1981, were left with permanent mind damage as a result of their torture and have remained in the delicate care of Healers in the Janus Thickey Ward at St. Mungos since. Their son, Neville Longbottom, received an Order of Merlin First Class for efforts in the Second War for assisting in the defeat of Voldemort himself. Ex-Death Eater Severus Snape, initially tried for his crimes, was cleared by the Ministry, and also awarded an Order of Merlin First Class for his exceptional war efforts. His memory potion has been a personal project for several years, now coming to fruition with its success. The staff at St. Mungo's have been celebrating the historical discovery since. Healers say that the potion could also potentially be utilise from those suffering effects of trauma and the loss of memories culminating from them. This provides much hope for those still in turmoil from the Second War. The potion will be available for St. Mungo's to utilise now that the trial stages have been successful and the true healing of those inflicted can begin.'

Dawn smiled warmly to herself, "Oh, Severus, you legend. Well done. See, you're not so bad."

Not that she had any doubts of course, but sometimes Severus needed a little more faith in his own abilities. It wasn't the confidence of the potion itself that was the problem, it was confidence in his own ability to feel worthy of anything. Sometimes his perfectionism got the better of him, which was clearly evident in his anger-inducing anxiety. But really, it was more that he truly believed he could do it and that it will be recognised. He needed not only faith for himself but that of others. Knowing that she knew he often demeaned himself, broke her heart. She hated seeing that self-loathing talk and she only wished he would see himself as they did.

As she did.

And she saw him for the goodness deep within him, not the shadows tucked away from his damaged past. No, she saw his potential, his drive, his ambition, even the humor when he allowed himself some amnesty. Aside from being so self-critical, he simply needed to learn how to be kinder to himself. She wanted nothing more than to help him see that and she knew it was not an easy thing to face for his demons always seemed to rule his mind. She could only hope that this new success would be his drive to put forth the goodness he had into use. And maybe the public will no longer be so harsh as they were before. Casting stones at a man who risked his entire life to bring the tyrant down, was appalling.

She wanted him to heal. She wanted him to see that he was not the man he was, and that man will never come back again. She wanted him to feel safe with himself and not be afraid to be who he was now. That dark past was just that – the past. And she only wanted to help him look positively to the future and one he probably never thought he'd ever reach.

But there he was, healing people with his skills in potions and helping her in her investigation. He was far more profound than he ever believed in himself, but she knew better.

The time spent with him in the last school year had been something she never foresaw. Of course, he was incredibly difficult and spiteful upon the first arrival, which was to be expected. But soon he began to feel more at ease even to find comfort in their newfound friendship. They undeniably had a connection, and she truly did enjoy his company and the mysterious secrets he held. She found him highly intriguing, and she felt drawn to him. Perhaps she wanted to see him heal and find that happiness that never truly touched his soul, but maybe someday he will find it.

She had noticed his demeanor slightly change in the last few months, often casting strange looks upon Gregory whenever she was around. She really didn't know why the sudden fixation, but she was curious as to why. She and Gregory were merely friends, so perhaps he assumed something more? She had no idea. It was almost a protective quality to Severus, ensuring she was in good hands.

Perhaps.

But that wasn't all she noticed – He and Harry had been awfully quiet and strangely melancholy. Something had happened between them, and it appeared somewhat liberating. Both seemed to find a strange sense of calmness and clarity, which even for the pair, was strange. But Severus seemed a little less mopey and a little more upbeat, but not by much. An upbeat Severus was a strange image for her, but any kind of reprieve from the darkness that held him was a success.

And she was relieved that he found that respite, whatever had happened.

Suddenly she felt a warmth in the memory of his arm around her as she cried on the anniversary of her loss. She smiled to herself fondly. He had comforted her in the gardens, and she did not expect such a thing at all. And yet he remained seated by her side as she shamefully wept against his robes, without him even knowing why. It was such a strange comfort from him, but she welcomed the bliss she felt in his tenderness. He was careful. Gentle. As if he was scared to touch her, but he was considerate, which she was incredibly grateful for. It was rather endearing for Severus to even do, and a part of her took solace in experiencing such an incredible rarity.

A knock at her window broke through her wistful thoughts, turning around to notice a tiny fawn owl carrying two small pieces of parchment. She retrieved the letter and watched as the owl fluttered away with its small wings, struggling slightly against the humid air. She peeled open the first parchment and began to read:

Dawn –

We have been notified of magical activity at an old Manor southwest of Belfast. According to the neighbors, the property has been vacant for almost a year, yet they've recently noticed lights on inside.

Ronald, Desmond, and Raphael are there now.

Memorise the coordinates on the next piece of parchment before it disintegrates, and we'll see you there.

Regards, Rowan

As instructed, the additional piece contained a numbered set of coordinates. She did her best to memorise until barely twenty seconds later, it disintegrated into ash. Wasting no time at all, she tapped her belt to ensure her wand was still with her and apparated to the coordinates as directed by her superior using a tracking charm courtesy of the Auror Department.

Her journey there was solemn. They've had no proper leads for a while and yet suddenly, they were faced with this curious circumstance. Every moment called onto the field sent waves of bundled nerves to fire through her body. She couldn't help but tense, never knowing what they'd find or face.

Dawn arrived in a timely manner, meeting her team at the neighbors' boundary at the bottom of the hill. Once she had finished with her usual briefing by Rowan, the five of them made the slow, careful journey up the slightly sloped hill.

"Hills are murder for my knees and ankles, " Desmond huffed, clearly overexerting himself as they ascended the hill. Raphael chuckled beside him, earning a dangerous glare in return, "Oi, you wait until you get to my age."

"Halt – Wards – " Rowan outstretched his arm to hold back his team, kicking a small rock from when it bounced against an invisible force. "This will take some time to pull down. As we discussed, go to your designated points and work on disintegrating them."

Without further discussion, Dawn split up from her team to take her allocated position on the northwest side of the large property, finding a spot to hide amongst the thickened tree line. Once she observed the others taking up their positions, she retrieved her wand and began to mutter a string of Latin incantations, feeling the wards slowly melting away. It took several goes until she felt the electricity disappear from their vicinity and clearing the magic that hung heavy in the air. She picked up a small stone at her boot and threw it ahead, satisfied to see no trace of the boundary remained.

She pressed on forward. Rowan has called for a second team on backup in case things went haywire, which given the way Dawn was feeling rather uneasy about it all, was a given. The light was still bright of the day – a welcome calmness that she needed to reinvigorate her. But deep down, she felt an inner panic rising.

Dawn pulled herself just under the windowsill of the backside of the Manor. Her wand was kept carefully against her. She could hear no movement from as far as her hearing could pick up, but it was not enough. From the other corner of the house, she spotted Ron climbing into the window close to him and the last she could see was his disappearing old worn brown boots.

Ron, no, too quick –

Dawn felt breathless. She could see this going wrong in so many ways and yet no one else could be seen. This was both alarming and panic-inducing at the same time, but there was no other option but to invade the house. Running away was not an option.

Once she took a quick visual of the other side of the window and deemed it safe, she tapped on the glass with her wand, and in a blink of an eye, the glass vanished. Silently she climbed through as best as she could, ensuring no noise was made. The marble floors of the abnormally large dining room she landed in were modern and elegant. Rather beautiful and appealing to the eye. It felt like a property that could be used for a wedding reception, with sheer pearl drapes and white stained-glass windows. A heritage was clearly preserved here and yet it was reinvented with a modern style.

But something about it all felt…off.

She heard the slight shuffle up ahead, revealed by Ron who had appeared on the other side of the dining room. She took a few strides toward him, careful to keep her voice lowered, "Come across anything remotely unusual?"

Ron shook his head; his slightly overgrown red locks appeared windswept and unkept, "No, nothing yet. I passed a hallway and several doors were closed. I wasn't game enough to open those by myself yet."

She nodded, "That's alright, we will see those together."

Ronald glanced around, clearly looking just as anxious as she was, "It's just so…quiet. Don't you think? Maybe it really is empty and whoever was here left when they saw us arriving?"

Dawn bit her lip. It was possible, but she too felt uneasy, "I share your concerns, too. This place looks too…nice. Too neat and tidy. As if there was no evidence of anyone having been here."

"Maybe it hadn't actually been used for anything?"

"Possibly, " Dawn began to backtrack from where Ron had appeared though, to ensure the rooms on the ground floor were covered, "This could merely just be an anxious tip-off. Could be nothing."

"Or – "

"Don't even say it, Ron."

One by one the pair sifted through the rooms on the ground floor and yet no sign of the others was heard from. Perhaps they were still scouting the perimeter, or one of them may have even reached the next floor. They passed the main foyer – as elegant and pristine as the dining room, with a glistening crystal chandelier and a marble floor that had looked largely untrodden on. The place was far too new to have been used recently. No mud stains or footprints could be identified, or any shift from the elegant rugs lain across the floor.

The entire situation was odd. They arrived expecting an immediate attack, and yet…nothing. Wards were active, but there was no sign of life within them.

Ron sighed under his breath, "I reckon they bailed."

It was possible. Dawn pulled open one of the doors to a room – a study – to find it empty. It looked rather inviting, but still no sign of life. And yet a candle was flickering in the corner.

"Look, there. A candle – " Dawn slowly entered the room, "Someone was here."

Ron clutched his wand tightly, now becoming extra vigilant, "Do you think they already know we are here?"

Her heart skipped several beats, "That is also possible."

She continued within the room to stop at the window overlooking the lush green acres of the backyard. The gardens were mesmerizing and yet she could not see a single soul. Suddenly, she felt her chest lurch. Something was deeply wrong, "…I don't see the others. Something isn't right, here."

The young man nodded in agreement, clearly feeling the same as she was, "What do we do? Find them? Leave?"

She clenched her jaw, but she knew they had a job to do, "No, we keep going. We have a task here and we are going to figure it out. Rowan said he had a team on standby – "

There was a sudden loud thump coming from upstairs. Dawn and Ron turned sharply to each other, listening for any further noise. They stood for barely half a minute until they heard yet another painful thump. Without even discussing a plan, Dawn fled the study and wove back to the grand staircase which split into equal landings at its center to the first floor. Ron followed closely behind her; both sets of wands were up at the ready.

Dawn felt a sharp chill across her skin, feeling goose pimples immediately riddle through. The same chill she felt at the brewery, and she knew exactly what was lurking there, "Dementors…Be ready to cast your Patronus."

"They always seem to use them guarding something."

She nodded grimly, "Yes, and to subdue their victims."

They turned down to the nearest corridor and immediately they spotted a trail of blood ending in several smears across the marble floor. They followed the trail until they reached a body slumped face down. A pool of blood flooded around them, appearing as if a bucket of red paint was tipped over. She managed to kneel beside them, feeling sticky blood soak the side of her boots. With the help of Ron, they pulled the body over to reveal a bloody and disfigured Desmond, gurgling on his own blood.

"No – Des – " Tears welled in Dawn's eyes as they laid him down gently. He was still breathing, and upon blearily opening his eyes, sighed in relief when he saw her. She leaned in closer, "Where is Rowan? What happened?!"

Ron had since scrambled for a blanket in the bedroom they found themselves in and pushed it against one of many slash-like wounds struck across his chest and abdomen. Ron himself grimaced at the sight of him, appearing paler by the second.

Desmond struggled for breath, "I didn' see Rowan – I was attacked from behind – I don't know wha' happened – there are – kids upstairs – "

She crinkled her brow and looked alarmingly at Ron to clarify if they heard correctly, "What?"

"The missing – " Desmond coughed, wincing at the obvious pain that shot through his body, " – The missing kids – "

She felt her stomach drop to her feet, swaying slightly where she kneeled, "Alright, Des, hold on. We are going to get you help."

Ron looked up to her for direction, "What the hell do we do?"

Dawn stood up, ignoring the streak of fresh blood on her robes. Her face was stern and determined, now in her bid to take charge, "Stay with Des. Use your Patronus to contact the Head Office for help. I'm going upstairs – "

"Dawn, no!" Ron shook his head, "We should be staying together!"

"Didn't you hear him? There are children up there! They could be hurt…Just, just listen to me, Ron!" Dawn pleaded a little too angrily, "I have to go and investigate. Send that message and then get him out of here. That is an order!"

Without hearing another word from Ron, she dashed out of the room in her bid to find the staircase leading upwards. It just had to be the attic. There was no other inhabitable floor but the one they were on, but if Desmond's attacker was here, she had to be careful. She turned into the long, desolate corridor, doing her best to listen to the sounds around her. In the distance, she could hear Desmond gurgling and when she turned, a dog Patronus bounded out of the room and disappeared into nothingness.

One by one she entered one of the many rooms the manor contained. But the eeriest thing was the unnerving silence to the point where she was tired of hearing her heart beating wildly. It was almost maddening, and she could no longer bear the silence as her breaths elevated in a rising panic.

She entered through another room in the corridor, which turned out to be yet another standard bedroom. The layout of this one was odd. Several beds were crammed inside, with a set of bunk beds and two baby cribs. The mattresses were old and the sheets appeared unwashed – quite a stark contrast to the clean and tidy rest of the house. People had been sleeping in this room. Some of the bed frames were chains, and the baby cribs had a net around the top. In one of the cribs was a soiled nappy, old and putrid.

She wrinkled her nose and exited the room, unable to bear the stale stench of the obvious hygiene of those that were forced to sleep there. Bile rose in her throat, only barely imagining the souls that were contained there. She entered another room, similarly the same, however with fewer beds. Another few baby cribs and even a bassinet for newborns were stored there. She couldn't help the burning in her eyes as tears quickly began to form, but she bit her lip desperately containing any possible noise she could make.

As she was observing each bed, she heard a shuffle out in the corridor causing her to peek outside the door. Ron was levitating a heavily injured Desmond downstairs, but when she looked in the other direction, she spotted four dementors tucked away upon the high ceiling, quickly advancing on Ron as he was leaving.

"Ron, go, quickly! I'll hold them off! Expecto Patronum!" A large white wolf burst from the tip of her wand, keeping those dark creatures at bay for as long as she could while she backed up against the wall keeping as far away from them as possible. The Dementors scuffled with the Patronus, screeching in the eeriest of sounds. But one of them slipped past her Patronus and advanced upon her with rotting breath and gnarling silver fangs. She felt something powerful being pulled away from her, leaving her feeling dizzy and disorientated. Tears pricked at her eyes, as she struggled to stay grounded, but she could not focus. She couldn't utter a single word that could help her because the Dementor was far too great of a power to repel. She gasped for breath, feeling a light disappear from her as it grappled hold of her. She managed to flick her wand by her side, redirecting her Patronus to knock her attacker away.

Once the Dementor was repelled, she quickly ran back into the room and shut the door feeling all the wind knocked from her. She gasped, hunched over, doing her best to catch her breath whilst fighting the tears streaming from her face in fright. A moment relived was not one she ever wanted to think about again and yet all she could feel was the fresh grief yet again for the precious life lost. A moment forever burned in her memory. Knowing she was now stuck in this room with Dementors hungry and waiting outside her door, she could not bear to face them again. She didn't want to feel that immense horror again. She wanted to curl into a ball and weep until she was rescued, but she couldn't. There were lives still upstairs and she had to somehow make it there.

She needed help. Against the blood pumping at the side of her neck, she could hear a duel taking place on the manor grounds. Rowan and Raphael were definitely there, recognising their voices, and she could only hope Ron made it safely outside with Desmond. But now here she was, trapped and alone, and too afraid to leave the room.

Dawn had an idea, and yet it was a huge risk. But she knew that this person could help her get out of this alive and with a strange pang of longing, she would trust him with her life. She re-cast her now faded Patronus and brought her wand to her temple: 'Severus…I need your help…Please…We're all in trouble…' With the worded message she sent the coordinates with her Patronus and watched as her large white wolf disappeared into the ether when suddenly the room was devoured of all warmth once again.

There, she waited. Hearing nothing but the roaring terrors outside of her door, waiting to consume her soul at the next moment they could. Her wand was held forward, hands shaking, muttering protective incantations at the door until help arrived.

Severus did not take long to make his relieved appearance when Dawn could see bursts of light flash through the underside of the door, followed by dangerous spells and the additional chorus of voices yelling on the other side. They were not alone.

Cautiously, she released the enchantments and opened the door to find a beautiful silver doe blasting away the Dementors that had stood sentry waiting for her. Behind the gentle animal was Severus, concentrating his focus on keeping the creatures at bay while he cast spells at the other offenders attacking from the other side. When she was able to summon her courage once again and push away the nerves grappling her, she sent her Patronus to fight alongside his, using both guardians to finally disperse the Dementors that were far too many for them to deal with in a contained space. When those creatures of nightmares were dealt with, Dawn and Severus faced the remaining attackers, repelling spells and sending each spark against the slowly dissipating corridor walls.

When the last enemy fell, and Dawn bound them with magical ropes, Severus lowered his wand and looked alarmingly at her, "Are you injured?"

Dawn shook her head wildly, still recovering from the feeling of being trapped and hunted by such horrifying creatures. Her heart raced painfully in her chest, "No, no, I'm alright – " Severus didn't look convinced in the slightest, but Dawn's eyes widened when she realised she needed to go upstairs. She pulled desperately on the man's robes, begging for him to follow, "We're not finished – "

She didn't even wait around to hear Severus' response when she bolted to the other side of the manor eyeing the small staircase leading upwards. She could hear Severus' boots on the floor behind her, picking up speed by her side. Dawn stopped at the staircase and began to climb, hearing Severus clamber in behind her.

Blood. She smelled blood.

The moment she crossed into the threshold; she heard a chorus of desperate cries. A silencing charm had been cast, hence the haunting silence throughout the manor. There were children, five or six of them ranging from about one to six years old. Two had already perished, blood seeping through their small bodies as if they had been tortured. Some were even soiled with urine, faeces, and even vomit. The unimaginable horror of those last few moments embedded into her mind, even though she was not there. The idea of it made her ill.

They looked malnourished. Neglected. Abused. Tortured.

She felt absolutely sick to her stomach, and felt the blood leave her face.

They were being collected, but at what cost? And punished for what? For their cries or their parents? Food? Water? Fear?

"Severus – " A choked sob escaped her lips, as she collapsed to the floor beside a crying child wriggling within what looked like an old, small dog bed. Though they looked no older than one, "H-how could anyone do this?"

She heard not a word from Severus, who stood at her side in as much shock as she was. His lips trembled in what appeared in a mixture of rage and disgust. She scooped up the tiny child and began to cradle them close to her body weeping into their blood-soaked hair, "You're safe now, sweethearts. They won't hurt you anymore."

She felt a quiet kneel beside her and a gentle hand upon her shoulder as Severus whispered, "Let's relocate them downstairs…away from here."

In a devastated, broken sob, she nodded.

To her unexpected surprise, Severus helped her to her trembling feet as she was too overwhelmed with such grief for these precious lives and the ones who did not make it. Once they helped the children one by one down the stairs, they led them to the vacant room with the old beds until they knew it was safe enough to lead them all out.

Dawn stayed with the children, rocking one of them against her until they fell asleep in her arms, humming to them with the gentlest of sounds. Lullabies her mother used to sing to her. One child leaned against her side, wrapping her in tiny arms around her for comfort. Some of the other children remained huddled together and some had dozed off in the beds. At the corner of her eye, she could see Severus standing idle by the door like a sentry, speechless, not knowing what to do or say. Clearly consoling children was out of his realm, but once their gazes eventually met, Severus nodded sombrely and departed the room in his bid to clear the way for them and make it safe.

It took some time before they were able to make it outside, as swarms of Aurors finally flooded the property and assisted Dawn with taking them to safety. She could barely part with the one she was holding, wishing she could take them home herself.

Severus had said nothing that entire time, both feeling rather heavy-hearted with the situation and state of the children that they had witnessed. She could see Severus clenching his fist at his side and she could only wonder what was going on within his mind.

Eventually, they were informed of Desmond receiving medical care at St. Mungo's, with Ron by his side. According to Ron, he was left horribly scarred with pieces of flesh missing from his face, arms, and torso. The dark spell which had caused the devastation was irreversible and they were able to replenish all of his lost blood. Unfortunately, this meant he'd be out of action for quite a while, leaving one of them down. When help finally arrived, they were able to subdue some of those attackers which was a small win, but not enough to feel accomplished.

Dawn did not feel satisfied. Some of those children lost their lives and she felt guilty about it. Perhaps if she didn't run and hide like a coward, they may have still been alive. She should have raced past those Dementors. She should of –

She closed her eyes tightly, doing her best to stop the tears from falling. She felt a familiar presence close beside her, knowing it was Severus before she opened her eyes again to see. His dark orbs were full of apprehension. His brows crinkled and his lips parted slowly as he watched her slowly crumble. Oh, she wanted to fall within his hold. She wanted to lean against him and never let go, even for a little while. The urge to do so was so great, and yet to her dismay, she could see Rowan limping over on an injured leg. She brushed away her tears and faced him with her chin up, knowing full well her voice was breaking, "Rowan."

"I am glad you are alright, " Rowan said with soft concern, "It was all a bit of a mess, wasn't it?"

She nodded, barely able to speak a word before she stole a quick glance at Severus by her side.

"Mr. Snape, " Rowan greeted with slight disdain, eyeing Severus enough to make her uncomfortable, "I don't recall giving you permission to intrude on an Auror investigation - "

"- I gave him permission, " Dawn said, confidently.

Rowan shot her a warned look, "You didn't think to run that by me first?"

"I was in trouble, and we needed help, " She clenched her jaw, "We need his help, Rowan. How many times are we going to let these bastards get away with this? If they are similar in presentation to Death Eaters, then Severus is our best chance of figuring it out. I would have lost my soul in there if it weren't for him."

Severus' eyes fleeted intermittently from hers to Rowans, "I can offer my assistance and I will do so with or without your unhinged malice upon me."

A burst of pride flooded Dawn's chest, feeling slightly more reinvigorated with his partnership and his comfortable presence beside her, "Or we can keep chasing our tails until the next Dark Lord arises."

"Fine…I will allow it, " Rowan's eyes pierced through to Severus, "I will see no sabotage, unnecessary interference, or unauthorised lead on this investigation, am I making myself clear? Or else I will have you arrested quicker than you can say Voldemort. And I will not hesitate."

Dawn glared darkly at her superior, feeling her respect for him quickly diminish, "Stop treating him like a Death Eater, Rowan. Those days are gone."

"As long as the Mark remains, he'll always be one. Rest up and I will organise a de-briefing in the next few days…Look for my owl, " Rowan curled his lip glaring darkly once more at Severus, before turning away to rejoin the others.

Dawn stared hopelessly at Severus, who quite visibly tensed at the last remark. Her face softened, "Oh, Severus, I'm so sorry…"

"You are not to blame for his beliefs, " Severus responded calmly, "That receptiveness is not so uncommon for me."

She simply looked up into his eyes and sighed pensively, "Don't allow what he said to get to you."

Severus' mouth twitched slightly, "It won't. The number of times I've been at war with myself because of it is exhausting. Now, will you be safe to apparate home, or would you like me to accompany you?"

With sore, reddened eyes, Dawn shook her head, although grateful for his concern, "I-I will be fine."

He looked slightly disappointed, but instead, he nodded respectfully, "If you require any calming solution, I can provide it for you. Healing potions, dreamless sleep…"

Stopping him from continuing, Dawn rested a hand on his forearm where the Dark Mark resided, and squeezed gently, "I'll be alright without it, Severus. Thank you…Thank you for answering my call."

Her eyebrows crinkled underneath her dark blonde fringe and her heart ached to beat alongside his wanting so desperately for his arms to wrap around her. Comforting her. Pulling her in close to slow rise and fall of his chest.

Someone to embrace. Someone to hold.

Instead of waiting, and with a delicate sadness, she released him and apparated home.

July 23rd, 2003

[Severus Snape]

Severus' recent encounter with Dawn had been on his mind ever since the fight at the manor took place.

He had been left in a pensive state. A purgatory of his thoughts and emotions, not quite knowing how to feel. For days he spent staring at the un-brewed components of the Wolfsbane potion within his quiet abode, merely thinking about that day on repeat. So many questions were running through his mind, and not just of the event itself, but how he handled it.

Or lack thereof.

She was in pain, and yet you stood frozen…watching. You awkward, miserable bastard.

Every day since he condemned himself for not doing enough to support her, but he genuinely didn't know what to do. And every day since he spent staring at the faded Dark Mark with utter repulsion, hearing Rowan's disparaging words echo within his mind. He couldn't help his past – he has long since made peace with that. But he knew he was not the man anymore and there was something about the way Dawn had jumped to his defense, had felt rather endearing. It felt…good.

Seeing Dawn again brought him an unexpected measure of comfort. He didn't realise how much he had missed her company when he had joined forces with her. It was the first time they had ever fought side by side and it felt immensely good to have a companion. A partner.

A Friend. A genuine friend.

Since farewelling Lily, he was able to come to terms with all those unanswered questions and self-reprimand upon his own past fatal mistakes. Coming to terms in civility brought him relief. A long-awaited release, like a breath of fresh air. Finding the courage to let go of that past had been challenging, but he was able to do it. And for a rare moment, he actually felt proud of himself for taking back that control in his life. For recognising something that was greatly weighing him down and had been for so many agonising years.

Seeing Dawn console those young children and sing them asleep, was mesmerizing. Warm. Her sound was as wistful and gentle as an evening breeze and sounded peculiarly like a Nordic lullaby. An angelic sound that soothed even his own soul, something he had only ever heard of in his youth. She knew how to comfort them and hold them as a mother should. Like his own mother would do, when his father had his drunken outbursts, and the only way to calm him, was his mother singing him to sleep. Dawn became a mother to them until they were reunited with their own, which they only hoped had still survived. And they felt safe with her. But he could never do what she did. That, he knew he'd never feel capable of.

…He tried so hard not to fall in love with her. Convinced she would be the death of him had he allowed his emotions to slip and lose control. He didn't want to believe in soulmates, but what else could explain all of this? It wasn't just his heart that craved her. He started to feel the longing from his fingertips. His bones. His own spirit. She softened his heart more than he ever dared possible. With her, it melted and remolded and uncovered something he never thought he'd ever be capable of.

Love. A concept he was still so vastly unfamiliar with and yet he felt it. Something he could never describe and yet within his bruised and battered heart, he knew it was there.

Putting aside his racing thoughts and emotions, he managed to journey back to Hogwarts in the days following, with another task to mark off - Signing himself up for yet another school year. He didn't really have any future plans, and yet the idea of leaving now just didn't seem like the right thing to do. And strangely, he seemed comforted to know that things did not end up as terribly as he assumed they would. It took some time to find his way again, but now he felt he was in a decent enough part of his life to be interested enough to see this further. And with Dawn in his life now, he wanted to take his own, personal, leap of faith.

Now he just did not feel ready to leave.

That Saturday afternoon, he headed to Minerva's office eyeing the portrait of Albus rather pointedly before seating himself in the guest chair. He and Minerva had already discussed the proposition, so the moment he arrived, she slid over her quill and the parchment awaiting his signature. Without a word, he picked up the quill and scribbled his sharp, spidery signature on the allocated line. Once he handed the parchment back, Minerva's face was suddenly alight with happiness. Something that was rare even for her.

Severus' dulled expression could only glare in return, "What Zonko product did you mistakenly inhale?"

Bashfully, Minerva shrugged, "Can I not be happy for my dear friend?"

"Depends on the context."

Minerva stared hard at him, and yet her pleased expression did not falter, "You've come so far, Severus. The pride and admiration I have for you is invaluable."

He wanted to argue against that so desperately, but he knew deep down, she was right. He had come a long way and each decision he had made had been his very own. So much had happened in the previous year now only left him curious as to what the following year would bring. So many unexpected things had begun in motion and with the success of his Memory Potion, the Wolfsbane project, a decent school year, rekindling friendships and making new ones…Admittedly, he finally felt like he was in a good place.

As much as he did not want to jinx it, perhaps things were finally getting better for him. Perhaps now his life had a proper purpose. True meaning. Pathways he could choose and not be forced upon, and a life he should have had decades ago.

Was he afraid of what the future would bring? Without a doubt. But he was also tired of living in fear and learning from Harry had been the most pleasant of all. Knowing when to pause, re-evaluate, and take those leaps of faith that he was always afraid to try, would catapult him further into a better life. To shed old habits, mindsets, and self-deprecation, into a life of confidence, trust in himself, and learning to open up his heart a little more would be the path to a life he'd be proud of. He only wished it all happened sooner, but he had to remain patient.

He had to have faith in himself.

Severus could only sigh softly, "I can only do my best, Minerva."

"Oh, I know. I can see it, " She smiled again, with a twinkle in her eye reminding him of Albus, "And learning to make more than acquaintances is something I am ever prouder of you for doing."

Severus frowned, "Meaning?"

"Severus…You love her, " Minerva's soft smile twitched, appearing almost slightly mischievous, "And I believe this simply because I've known you for long enough, and never within that time have I seen you so… enamored."

Severus remained silent, boring his dark eyes into Minerva's icy blue, aged ones. His lips twitched, but not a word could be spoken. Harry had already noticed, and now her. He was a fool to assume she'd be oblivious to it, but perhaps she was far more perceptive than he gave her credit for. He felt his cheeks flush, feeling a tinge of shame that his emotions for her had been brought to the surface. Emotions that he wished had just stayed hidden, but he struggled to contain them anymore.

The woman's demeanor softened, sensing Severus' inner panic, "You love her so much that the idea alone is scaring you half to death. Am I correct?"

"I…I don't know what I'm doing, " Severus was barely able to breathe the words out, but the admittance itself scored another bruise against his heart.

Minerva's voice was soft and reassuring, and he was thankful in that moment that she was with him, "You will. You will pursue in your heart what feels right. And Merlin, you deserve this, Severus. Let yourself feel something other than guilt and self-hatred. Allow yourself to feel worthy of something other than the darkness you've lived with for so long. It wounds me deeply that you are still punishing yourself for it all. By doing so, denying yourself of something that will lessen the burden on your soul."

Severus leaned forward against the table, staring off into nothingness, "If I could overcome what I feel, I would. I am not like everyone else who could feel such things with ease…It-I can't…"

"Love, Severus. Allow yourself to love and be loved, " Minerva tried to offer a small smile, "Take that chance, dear friend. I want nothing more than the best for you. She is exceptionally kind, with the patience that is well sought for, and as I perceive it, I believe she harbors similar feelings for you, too."

"I am a heartless beast, Minerva. I am not capable. I ruin things - "

"Heartless? Oh, no. Far from it. You don't like to see yourself as such, but you carry so much emotion within you that you are too afraid to show it. It's not a weakness as you so think of it as. And you are no heartless beast. Harry and I will argue vehemently against that. Even Dawn herself."

Severus paused for a moment, and gave a shuddered, almost painful sigh, "How do you do it? Remaining sickeningly optimistic."

Minerva paused in thought, glancing at the golden perch in which Fawkes used to sit, "Someone must do so. I prefer to see the silver lining. You've known me long enough to understand that I do not accept anything that diminishes any chance of hope."

"Minerva, " Severus glanced quickly at the woman, before turning his head away from her gaze. The uncomfortable nature of the conversation caused him to rise to his shaky feet. He didn't want to walk out on Minerva, and for the first time in so long, he wanted nothing more than to face his weakness. He was afraid to feel so defeated and torn, and admitting it out loud was a strength he so desperately wanted to reach for, especially to one of his oldest friends. Once he pushed himself out of the chair and begun to pace, less maddening than his usual, but he had to move and do something or else those thoughts will eat him alive. After feeling Minerva's observant gaze, he finally paused and leaned against her desk. Minerva since waited and joined beside him in the same fashion. After a small pause, Severus sighed almost dismally, "Weakness is not a concept I accept well. I am afraid to feel so…so vulnerable. I am afraid of being rejected and the further self-loathing that accompanies it. Loneliness is all I know. I'm afraid to disappoint her, or for her to realise she is making a terrible mistake. I'm afraid to not be adequate enough for her. I'm just…afraid of it all."

"Feeling afraid is a good thing. It means you are also afraid to lose her."

"I can't lose another, " Severus whispered, "I just…can't."

Minerva reached over and began to rub small circles on the man's upper back, "You are not alone anymore, Severus. You must learn to live with that comfort. As fairytale as it sounds, you must follow your heart's desire. It's never once led you astray, and Potter's survival is evidence of that. Your devotion to Lily Potter is a symbol of that love for her. And now, following your heart again using that force as power, will lead you to another. You must stop burying the best parts of yourself. There is so much good there, but you keep pushing it aside and casting it away. And for what? To continue to punish yourself for eternity? You've more than paid for your sins now, Severus. Allow yourself to breathe new life. A new purpose. A new journey."

"I'm tired of fighting for it, Minerva, " Severus spoke wearily.

"That's what you told Potter and I when you were deathly ill. And yet, here you are, nearly six years later."

Severus remained silent.

"Everything will be alright, Severus. Trust it."

Perhaps she was right. Well, of course, she was.

…He didn't quite realise it until then, but he craved Dawn.

Her smile and the soft curvature of her lips. The warmth of her eyes and how it exuded such an infallible kindness. Her touch and how it rippled with joy across his skin. The sweetness of her voice.

He craved her company so intensely, that nothing else mattered. He longed for her during every waking moment and to be apart from her saddened him and carved a hollowness within his heart. He used to relish being alone and now he wanted nothing more than to be with her. To sacrifice his solace to share his sanctuary with her and share their bliss in each other's company.

Since when did he become so attached?

One thing was certain - his heart desired hers.

…How did his life become like this?

August 15th, 2003

[Harry Potter]

Remaining home at Godric's Hollow for longer than a weekend made Harry the happiest. Knowing he could leave his teaching robes tucked away in his Hogwarts quarters for a few months, was immensely relieving. Sharing his bed with his wife without the dreaded thought of leaving her behind was something he knew was challenging, but he made it this far. Supposedly, it was no wonder many teachers didn't have their own families. Hogwarts' life was busy, demanding, and isolating.

But come August and Harry had received the best news of all - Ginny fell pregnant. Their first child of their own flesh and blood. A little brother or sister for Teddy and their own family finally growing once again.

Ginny was teasing Harry for a while, making light comments about utilizing the spare room, and buying a new broom rack designed for a family. And it wasn't until a few days later, did she surprise him with an infant-sized Gryffindor Quidditch uniform complete with a plush snitch and a moving baby ultrasound.

Harry cried.

He was excited of course but speechless. It took much effort to convince himself that he wasn't dreaming, and it really was happening. He was going to be a father to his very own. Ginny was over the moon, although it took them some time to break the news to the rest of the family once they felt confident to do so and reveled in their secret joy for as long as they could.

Although Harry was nervous - would he be any good? He knew he shouldn't be so worried as he helped raise Teddy, but this was different. But he knew that child would be raised surrounded by love as Teddy did, and the thought of a junior Potter to add to their family was an unimaginable joy he never knew he longed for until it happened.

Severus, of course, made a sarcastic quip of yet another Potter in his life. But deep down, he knew Severus was happy for him in his own way as he wasn't usually one to openly express such platitudes. There was something about envisioning him holding his future infant son or daughter, that became an oddly cathartic thought. But then again, he saw how Severus kept Teddy comfortable that night he and Ginny raced to his Aunt Petunia's side. He saw that softness buried deep within, masked by his waspish demeanor. As Harry's grin widened at the thought, it wasn't so different.

"Harry, you'll be a great dad, stop fussing, " Ginny leaned against him, as they snuggled together on the sofa.

"This is a big thing, how could I not?"

"You're allowed to worry, but I don't want you to wallow in it, " Ginny poked him playfully in the chest.

Harry couldn't help but shrug, feeling all kinds of worry bubbling within him, "What about work? I'll be away, and you'll be - "

"I'll be fine. You can still come home after classes and on weekends. McGonagall might even grant you leave."

"Ginny..."

Ginny's hand lay flat on his chest, rubbing gently until Harry's anxious breathing calmed down. She smiled as she looked up into his eyes, "It's going to be fine. We are going to be fine."

Harry gave a worried smile, "Ginny, I am over the moon with this. It's new, exciting, and yes, I'm going to worry. And...how are you still calm over this?"

Ginny's smile broadened, "Because I'm happy. I'm happy because we'll be growing our family and I am lucky to be growing it with you. I couldn't ask for a better partner."

There was a pause allowing Harry to really think about what she had said. There will always be a part of him to worry given his own upbringing, but he knew with Ginny, maybe he will be okay. Harry managed to smile in absolute relief, "Merlin, I bloody love you."

"You bloody better, " Ginny's cheeky grin elevated Harry's heart and watched in such intense adoration as she sunk against him.

It had been quite the baby buzz for quite some time once they decided to make it known. The Weasleys were absolutely delighted, and Molly had already begun knitting clothing for the little one about to touch their lives. Harry was still in shock that it was all happening, and now every future decision he'd make will be for the benefit and wellbeing of his family. But things did not feel as pleasant as they were supposed to, or as he hoped it would.

They were visited by Ron and Hermione close to the end of August once they had the time to share the wonderful news. Hermione was absolutely ecstatic, as with Ron.

Ron had pulled Harry aside when the women were left having iced tea in the dining room.

With a look of deep worry on his best friend's face, Harry's heart sank, "Ron, what is it?"

Ron's jaw clenched, lowering his voice, "I don't know if you know, but Severus is helping us out with our investigation. Dawn made me swear not to tell anyone, but it's getting really serious."

Harry's jaw dropped, not expecting that at all, "W-what? What should I know?"

He took a look around him to ensure no one else could overhear, "Kids are being taken."

"Great, thanks for the added worry."

Ron shoved his hands in his pockets, looking apprehensive, "Did you prefer I didn't tell you?"

"No, of course not – " Harry sighed heavily, "Is it the same group of people kidnapping Pureblood and Muggleborn women?"

Ron nodded grimly, "Yeah. They are using the Purebloods to birth their children and have them raised in their image."

"And what bloody image is that?"

"I think you know already."

"…Death Eaters?"

"There are still some out there, and now they are regrouping. Changing tactics. They don't call themselves Death Eaters anymore. Hell, the Dark Mark doesn't even exist anymore."

"What stupid name are they using now?"

Ron looked grim, "We don't know that yet. Just…Be bloody careful, Harry. Now with my sister expecting, we need to keep them safe. I have Hermione Auror-guarded at the Ministry and I can do the same for Ginny. One of my own was attacked and left disfigured. They don't mess around."

Harry shook his head, backtracking with all of this new, horrifying information, "And wait, you said Severus is involved? And he didn't tell me?"

"He probably didn't want you involved either."

Harry frowned, "Wonderful – " He tapped his wand in his sleeve and headed straight for the door.

"Where are you going?" Ron called after him, causing Ginny and Hermione to poke their heads in curiosity.

"To speak with Severus – " And Harry slammed the door after him.

Harry was beyond furious. With the entire situation, the danger, and even with Severus withholding just precious information. He didn't know what else to do, so approaching the man directly and questioning him further was the only thing he could think about. That was all that mattered to him at that moment.

Harry did not wait a single second, arriving at Severus' porch, and barged inside, "…You're in on this investigation, and you didn't tell me?!"

There was a shuffle on the other side, where Severus' head poked out from his laboratory. He looked equally as livid with the sudden intrusion. "Harry, what on earth – "

"Severus, answer me. Please."

Severus appeared as if he was caught red-handed – which he was – but he obviously did not expect Harry to have found anything out, "I did not want your involvement. My wish to keep you away from further danger is warranted."

"I knew something was happening with Dawn – She's been far too stressed in the last few months. Please…Please tell me what is happening, " Harry pleaded desperately, wanting to know more.

"That is not my place to divulge it. Any further details should be taken directly with Dawn."

"I don't bloody care. Any threat to my family is something I need to know."

Severus paused, pursing his lips, "I don't want you meddling or placing yourself in unnecessary danger."

"And I don't want you in danger, either. Tell me if there is anything I can do. Tell me everything you know, so I can protect my family – " Harry bit back his anger, trying to calm himself down, but his inner worry was becoming a little too much to bear, "I have a kid on the way now, Severus. If this kid will grow up in another world like the one we spent years fighting, we cannot sit around idly while people are taken and killed around us."

Severus' hands clasped in front of him, observing Harry very closely, "We seem to think they have something to do with the happenings around Hogwarts. The strange deaths, the tainted ingredients, the creatures who have lost their minds. We believe it might all be connected."

"Might? Might?"

Severus frowned dangerously, "Harry, calm yourself at once. Dawn and I are attempting to decipher it all."

Harry threw his hands up frustratingly, making his demands known, "Whatever new information you have, I want to know. Understood?"

"Fine."

"We're going to put an end to them, and I don't care what we have to do – " Harry left, slamming Severus' door behind him.

Harry was livid. A new fire burned within him. He was not about to go through this all again.

And he was more than willing to do whatever it took to stop them.

…As they did before.

FOOTNOTE: The song Dawn sang to the children is a Nordic lullaby - The Spirit Song. Search it on YT. It's beautiful.