Thanks to all of you who reviewed my story ! (I cannot answer guests but I appreciate knowing your thoughts :) )
AN:Big thank you to the amazing Miette for betaing this chapter so quickly !
AN-2021/03/01: Thanks to dstone12 for correcting the mistakes Miette and I overlooked :)
Severus blinked. He was safe. Safe from them. Black was protecting him. Black like Thestral's wings raised between him and danger.
Dhaal was standing square in front of him, huge. Bigger than any Thestral. Bigger than Severus had ever seen him. His wings were both menacing the creatures and protecting Severus.
Cautiously peering under one wing, Severus spied the two Werewolves writhing on the ground. The Vampires were on their knees, hands on their ears. The Fae was still standing, looking like she was fighting an invisible force.
Curious, Severus slowly relaxed his Shields. He had not even realised how much he had tightened them until he let go. Occlumency first, then his Personal one. Dhaal was… Sensing against the creatures. Sensing and something else, which caused faint ripples in the air.
"Screaming attack," supplied his Familiar, Sensing relief at having Severus back with him.
Severus silently apologised for panicking. His Familiar waved it away.
"Since when can you scream?" Sensed Severus curious.
"Just now," answered Dhaal sheepishly. "The Thestrals in Bǎo told me I would be able to when I am grown up."
Cool. Clearly, his Familiar was using sounds imperceptible to Severus' ears, but really effective against the Werewolves and the Vampires.
"Do you adjust your sound to the creatures you are attacking?" wondered Severus.
"I… Maybe. It's instinctive… I think… I screamed and modulated until I was the most effective against the Werewolves."
Really cool. However…
"Shouldn't you bring it down a bit? You're going to exhaust yourself," worried Severus.
"They have not learnt their lesson yet."
His Familiar might be a bit protective.
Looking around, Severus noted his surroundings were suspiciously empty. He spotted Sthir and the goblin teacher walking briskly toward them, the Goblin unhappy with the Werewolf if Severus was reading him correctly.
"Dhaal, stand down a bit. I think the test is over."
If it really was a test.
His Familiar did not move but he stopped screaming. The Werewolves slumped on the ground in relief while the Vampires stood up shakily.
"My apologies Apprentice Snape," said the goblin teacher as he reached Severus. "Those five should not use what they learn here to cause mayhem. And they should respect the sanctuary's rules," he added, looking pointedly at the group who had tried to harm Severus.
"You know what we were asked to do," answered the Fae.
"And you accomplished your mission extremely well," said Sthir, looking as if nothing wrong had happened. "Congratulations Apprentice Snape," he said, turning to Severus. "You passed the test and are now allowed to come and go as you wish in Kyirong."
The Goblin snarled.
"Do not make it something it was not, Sthir."
"The Test is in the Founders' code," snapped back the Werewolf.
"And during the past centuries, many have remained without taking it," replied the Goblin coldly.
"There was a vote Kasai," answered Sthir, exasperation showing through his voice.
The Goblin huffed then turned towards Severus and Dhaal, clearly dismissing the Werewolf.
Severus watched impassive, noting Sthir did not seem phased and went to talk with Severus' assailants.
"Please let me introduce myself properly. I assure you Apprentice Snape is safe," respectfully said the Goblin to Dhaal.
The Thestral made a show of staring down at him then at Severus' attackers before taking a step on the side to let Severus come forward.
"Thank you. I am Wise Kasai from clan Hankō," said the Goblin, bowing lightly.
"Pleased to meet you Wise Kasai," answered Severus. "I am Severus Snape, Apprentice to Master Tajniki. Here is Dhaal, my Familiar."
Severus bowed but noticed Dhaal did not. His Familiar clearly wanted to make a point.
"Shouldn't you shrink back?" Sensed Severus concerned. "You must have used a lot of energy."
"I am feeling a bit tired," admitted Dhaal. "But I do not want to show them what I can do."
"They already saw a lot. But I know what you mean. Try turning invisible first," suggested Severus.
"I do not know how," said Dhaal sheepishly.
Severus would not laugh at him.
"Imagine yourself invisible. I will tell you when it works."
"How will you know they cannot see me?"
"Their faces," answered Severus seriously.
Only seconds later, Dhaal was invisible. Even to Severus' eyes. He was not alarmed as he could still Sensed him through their Bond.
"You are invisible. Even to me."
"Wick!"
Severus felt Dhaal perch on his shoulder, clearly shrunk back to his more usual size.
"We'll need to practice," Sensed Severus, excited by his Familiar new abilities.
"Later," Sensed Dhaal with a yawn.
Severus turned his attention toward Wise Kasai who was looking at him with interest. Sthir was nowhere in sight. The five testers stood behind the goblin teacher. They were looking around in wonder, clearly looking for his Familiar.
"These five would like to apologise," said the Goblin, not commenting on Dhaal disappearance. "If you are amenable."
Severus remained silent, staring at them before nodding.
"Then I will leave you to it."
With a last look clearly telling the five to behave, he went back to his class.
"That was wick!" blurted out Alyosha.
Vilde rolled her eyes.
"Ignore him. He is enamoured with all dangerous creatures. We would like to apologise for scaring you, also we clearly underestimated you."
"Indeed," said Fu-Hsi. "We would really like to spar with your Familiar in a more controlled environment. And with you, I don't think you are as useless as you look."
Severus cocked his head, intrigued.
"Why not? I don't need protection with him beside me."
Muśkēlī laughed.
"Familiars are a reflection of their Tsure. I would really like to duel with you. School rules of course," she said with a dangerous glint in her eyes.
Yet, she did not feel as deadly as she had before.
"We'll see," answered Severus, still unsettled by the encounter.
They did not insist, but they took it upon themselves to show him the places to know in the Sanctuary, like the duelling grounds or the waterfalls. By the time Sthir came to walk him back to the Room of Crossings, Severus was calm, Dhaal asleep on his shoulder. Before letting him go through, the Werewolf explained Severus would not need anyone to guide him the next time and gave him a map of the Sanctuary. Some zones were blank, but it still was really useful.
Severus made his way through the Room of Crossings quickly, buzzing with excitement. He smiled as he spied Drunek waiting for him outside and quickly joined his Master. He wanted to tell Drunek everything about his day right now but knew he would need to repeat everything at dinner for the kids' never ending curiosity. He would edit the test from his tale, to share it with Drunek and Frekka later. Instead, he asked his Master about a fact which had intrigued him.
"Master, I'm confused."
"Yes Daoack?"
"Why is a Thạo in charge of the Herbology group in Kyirong? How can an Apprentice teach and take responsibility for so many other students?" asked Severus.
"An Apprentice..." trailed off Drunek. "You… You don't know? You did not figure it out?"
Severus frowned. What did he mean? If Severus was not an Apprentice... He thought back to Bǎo where he had met some Usta and Thạo who had been older than he was. At the time he had thought they had either taken on a new Apprenticeship field and so forgone their Master grade during that time, or stopped their studies when they were young, only to begin their Apprenticeship late in life after having worked for a while. He had not dared ask for fear of embarrassing them.
From Drunek's reaction, Usta and Thạo were more than Apprentice grade. Severus suddenly realised that he might have misunderstood the way his Apprenticeship worked. His contract was to be renewed each year. He had thought it depended on passing his Trials, but what if it was more a decision of the Wises on whether he would one day be able to improve and pass the next grade?
"Do you mean Thạo and Usta are like Mastery grades?" asked Severus.
Drunek nodded.
"Exactly. Only Learners are the equivalent of wizard Apprentices. Usta is the equivalent of Master grade III, Thạo of Master grade II, and Master of Master grade I."
Severus had the feeling the world had suddenly made a right turn instead of left.
"That's not possible. It's not… I became Usta after only one year! Thạo only two years later..."
"I know," acquiesced his Master wryly. "This is why you were not told at first. And then… I thought you would figure it out during your year in Bǎo."
"But I learnt so much after becoming Usta. It does not make sense Master," argued Severus.
Drunek got up to face Severus, putting his hands on his shoulders.
"Daoack. Don't you realise how much you've learnt since coming here?"
"I know. But there is still so much I do not know," answered Severus fervently.
"You must realise there are not so many Masters among us. What you have already learnt. What you can already do." Drunek shook his head. "You must have realised Sensing as precisely and efficiently as you do is not an ability many Goblins possess."
Severus thought back to his Apprentice years. He had wondered why, with Goblins being so advanced, they had not crushed Wizards during the various wars. It made sense if what he had learnt was unusual. It felt weird to be… special.
Drunek huffed.
"Daoack. It is not that different from the wizard system. Master grade III keep studying to obtain their grade II and then their grade I, but not all succeed. I admit you climbed the steps quickly, but it is not that different."
Severus nodded pensively. Yes, it was not that different. It was just not what he had expected. He froze as a realisation hit him.
"It means that in Bǎo... you were in much more trouble than I thought, right?" Asked Severus.
Drunek sighed.
"Yes. I am glad we managed to shelter you from our politics. Our Korkein comes from clan Vauraus, one of the most conservative clans and he was born in Bǎo. Clan Vauraus also is focused on trade more than Magic, a total opposite from our clan. Clan Röykkiö is seen as walking a fine line between creativity, adaptability and betrayal of our culture." Drunek shook his head. "You must realise each clan is renown for its main skills. Clan Vauraus for profitable and exotic trade, clan Összhang for foresight and matters of the Spirit, clan Sēnlín for their abilities with living beings and Nature in general... Clan Röykkiö reputation is for curse breaking and complicated magic theory. To have you named Usta while unable to perform what they considered basic Taichichuan – even though most are unable to perform the Chen form – was considered a grave error in judgement from our Wises. The Korkein cast the doubt on our clan abilities. It was only one of his many griefs against us but if you had failed at the end of the year, he would have seized the opportunity. Wirkrund would have been demoted as well as the other Wises, most of our clan would have been deemed unworthy, our young Jothaja would have been in great difficulties without support..."
"It was quite the gamble to make," remarked Severus, a bit shaken by Drunek's revelations.
"Indeed," agreed Drunek gravely. "But today, Goblins whisper about your accomplishments and our cunning handling of your teachings. They wonder if we could be right on other subjects as we demonstrated we were right about you. They wonder how powerful a Wizard ally, close to Lord Malfoy and Lord Prince, could make clan Röykkiö. They wonder if we will claim the next Korkein," said Drunek with a frightening smile.
Severus swallowed hard, feeling the weight of expectations on his shoulders. He was also relieved about Drunek honesty on the clan ambitions and purpose for Severus, as well as some of their reasons for it. Nothing any Slytherin worth his salt would not have done, but Severus' trust in his Master would have been shaken if he had hidden it from him.
"It won't matter if I do not exceed all expectations with my project."
Drunek looked at him serenely.
"I trust you Daoack."
Right. No pressure.
The rest of the walk was silent, Severus trying to keep panic at bay. He only began to relax when telling his day to the excited kids who wanted to know everything about Kyirong.
The following days, Severus fell into a new routine. First, he performed the Taichichuan forms along Drunek, Frekka and the kids. They made a round of Yang all together then Severus and Drunek moved on to Chen, Frekka going back to the house to prepare breakfast, Kiveä and Soraa copying their moves as well as they could. Felsen either watched, crowing in delight or played with Dhaal.
After enjoying breakfast with the entire family, Severus either duelled Drunek or a few other Thạo, using Spells, Runes, Taichi and Sensing depending on the focus of the day. All the Thạo were from his clan. Drunek implied the duels were to keep Severus sharp so he only affronted the best Thạo, who were obviously Röykkiö. As none of them had ever bested him one on one, Severus thought his Master was not telling him the whole truth.
While Severus duelled, Dhaal practised switching between being visible and invisible. The episode in Kyirong had been like pushing on a switch. Now, his Familiar could be seen or unseen at will, and even choose who could and who could not see him at the same time, although it required a lot of concentration for now. Dhaal practising mainly meant pranking the different members of the family by suddenly appearing behind or in front of them. Soraa and Felsen were usually delighted and mock fights ensued. Kiveä was less impressed but Severus suspected it was more for show, judging on the spark in his eyes. Frekka was not amused, and could frequently be heard ranting at Dhaal, swallowing curse words when the kids were in hearing distance. Drunek took it as a practice for his blank face as well as his Sensing as he tried to predict where Dhaal would appear. All in all, Severus was a bit jealous, practice for Dhaal looked a lot like a game.
The both of them usually departed to Kyirong after lunch where Severus took part in the community activities, always with a different guide and alternating species. While Sthir had said Severus could come and go as he pleased in Kyirong, as soon as he reached the city, he found someone waiting for him.
After the first few days, the novelty wore off and Severus sometimes was really bored with his assigned tasks. However, he knew he had to gain their trust. He also suspected it was another test, to try his patience and resolve. So he gritted his teeth and tried not to offend anyone. Dhaal was the lucky one, allowed to explore and move wherever he wanted without any constraints as he was invisible. Surprisingly, only the ones who had taken part in the first day confrontation seemed to know about him. When Severus had discreetly asked Wise Kasai about it, the Goblin had answered he would not have Severus fail his end-of-Apprenticeship Trial because of stupid full of testosterone Werewolves. Apparently, only Sthir, Wise Kasai and the five testers now remembered Dhaal and were under oath not to reveal his existence. Wise Kasai had warned Severus it was the one and only time he would get involved, making him realise he needed to find himself a false wand or something to hide the fact he had passed the Ritual. Dhaal invisibility really was a blessing, especially now he could control it.
The best part of the day usually was the end of it, when he spent time with Vilde, Brage, Muśkēlī, Alyosha and Fu-Hsi. If Severus had been a bit wary of the five after their first encounter, they had pestered him until he was comfortable with them. As he had suspected, Vilde, Brage and Fu-Hsi were older than him in years, but to their species, they were barely adult. Alyosha and Fu-Hsi were his age, both born werewolves. The five of them had been sent to Kyirong by their family to study. They were really vague about the focus of their lessons, but Severus strongly suspected it was mainly Taichi and Khorlos opening or reducing.
Most of the time, they showed Severus parts of Kyirong he had not yet seen, or dragged him into games he had no desire to play but sometimes enjoyed anyway. Dhaal often joined them, invisible on Severus' shoulder or making the others trip on their feet. Severus had promised Dhaal and he would duel the others once they found a place to do so without revealing Dhaal's existence.
It sometimes felt a bit overwhelming. Severus did not think he had ever interacted positively with so many people, and at times, he felt the need to flee and find a moment of solitude. On one such occasion, as he tried to find a less crowded place, he ended up playing chess against a 300 year old Vampire who pronounced Severus acceptable at the game after trouncing him three games in a row. Severus had felt quite dazed afterwards but Vilde had looked at him with more respect as well as speculation the next day, gossip spreading quickly in the community.
On his fourth week in Kyirong, Severus was surprised to be greeted by Alyosha outside the Room of Crossings.
"Hey Sev!"
Severus almost rolled his eyes at the enthusiastic greeting. Alyosha – or Yasha, as he liked to be called by friends – seemed to always be happy and full of too much energy.
Severus executed the complicated handshake the Werewolf always insisted on, wondering if there was a bet on the day he would refuse to do it. Dhaal took it as his signal to take off Merlin knew where.
"Good morning Yasha. What happened?"
The Werewolf mimed a broken heart at the words, the expression even more outrageous than his welcoming handshake.
"Can't I be here for your sweet company?" he asked, looking like a lost puppy.
Severus only lifted an eyebrow at him in answer. Yasha pouted.
"You're no fun."
"You're the one waiting for me."
"Right. You win this one."
"I always win with you," smirked Severus.
Yasha snorted.
"Let's go, today is a big day for you."
Severus followed silently, curious and waiting for him to explain.
"The Pack has agreed to help you with your project. You get three volunteers to study and poke, within limits you will have to agree on."
All Werewolves in Kyirong were under the Kyirong Pack jurisdiction and protection for the duration of their stay. Only few internal Werewolves matters remained at the discretion of their own Pack.
"I would worry if there were no limits," said Severus dryly.
"This is why we agreed to help you," beamed Yasha.
Severus remained impassive while smiling inside. Yasha had a way of making people like him without even trying. But it was not the same as Lupin who was well liked because he was bland and unremarkable.
Severus could not help but compare the Werewolves he had met in Kyirong with him, and the Marauder was a pale copy at best. While most Werewolves were a lot less expressive than Yasha, all felt more vibrant and alive than Lupin. It should scare Severus as it seemed reasonable to expect their wolf form to be even more terrifying. But he was getting used to them, to the moments when they felt more wolfish than human. Severus would bet his right hand it was linked to their Khorlos, and he was dying of curiosity.
"Moon to Severus!"
Severus rolled his eyes at the bad pun.
"Come on, it's funny! Do you realise Muggles walked on the Moon ten years ago? I wonder what would happen to me if I did? Would I transform into a wolf right as I put my foot on the ground?" babbled Yasha excitedly.
It was an impressive feat for Muggles, one which made Severus even more wary of their capacities. He wondered if Wizards had thought to try even once. This was the true power of Muggles. Their creativity. Their capacity to question. Far fewer Wizards could boast the same quality. Unless maybe Muggles were just numerous enough that the ones who thought for themselves compensated for the other dunderheads.
"You're gone into your mind-rocket once more!" teased Yasha, yelping as Severus hit him lightly on the head.
To Severus' great pride, he was taller than his five friends despite being a simple Wizard.
"I thought you would be more interested in my news," teased Yasha.
"There was more to it?" asked Severus.
"Of course!" answered Yasha. "The three volunteers have already been chosen."
"Chosen volunteers?" repeated Severus unimpressed.
Yasha rolled his eyes.
"Chosen among all the volunteers dummy!" Yasha laughed at Severus incredulous stare.
"Really, many are intrigued by your project. And you of course."
"Of course."
"So. It was decided to select a Full Werewolf, a Transitional-born Werewolf and a Transitional-made Werewolf."
Severus did not know what being a Full or Transitional werewolf entailed, but he had the feeling it had something to do with Khorlos. He probably would not have chosen volunteers better.
"The Full Werewolf is my Vakt, my teacher. Sthir to be more precise."
Yasha smirked, knowing Severus had not yet found his equilibrium in his dealings with Sthir, the two having barely exchanged two words since his first day in Kyirong.
"The Transitional-born Werewolf is... me!" continued Yasha with a mock bow.
"Lucky me," said Severus, still allowing a fond smile on his face.
"Finally, the Transitional-made Werewolf is Remus Lupin."
Two years ago, Severus would have missed a step, stared, or shouted. Today, his eyes widened for one second and he missed one breath. Yasha did not notice and went on uninterrupted.
"It can be hard to be a Transitional-made Werewolf, especially when you did not choose to become one."
Some people really chose to become Werewolves? He would not laugh hysterically.
"Remus is one of the worst cases I've ever met, and he told me many were far worse off in Great Britain. It's really shameful." Alyosha's voice was hard and menacing suddenly. "I think it is one of the most retarded countries on Creatures' rights. Vilde said it might change after the next Ministry of Magic election though. Her Family Head is following one of the future candidates with attention. Lord Voldemort, I don't know if you've heard of him. He's really vocal about Creature's rights, and even promised a reward to anyone who created a Potion which would help Werewolves better integrate within the Wizard population."
"Yes, I've heard of him," said Severus non-committally.
Yasha stopped walking suddenly.
"Is this the reason for your project? The reward?"
Severus shook his head.
"It is a nice bonus but no. I've had a close encounter with a Werewolf on a full moon and it gave me a particular motivation in creating a potion to prevent Werewolves from becoming mindless Monsters on the full moon."
Yasha nodded, serious for once.
"This is the reason why most packs send us here. To learn better control. Apparently, born Werewolves are less violent than made Werewolves during the full moon. We don't actively hunt humans to bite them. But we are not in control. Here, we try to learn how to be. It is not easy but when you succeed… Mum says I cannot understand until I pass the Shiren and become a Full Werewolf."
He looked awkwardly at Severus who only began walking again, bumping lightly against his friend's shoulder even as he wondered what passing the Shiren entailed.
"Anyway, I really feel for Remus. He does not even know who his Pack are. Nobody had explained to him all the rules before he came here. He's only here because one of his teachers knew Sthir. He's a bit overwhelmed, even after nearly six months among us. I think your project gives him hope and something to focus on," explained Yasha.
Severus was feeling overwhelmed too. So Yasha dropped another bombshell.
"He's lucky his friend came with him. Peter's a really nice guy. I think he's the only reason Remus did not high-tail it back to Britain the first week."
Great. Another Marauder. With his luck, the other two would follow. Yasha babbled all the way to the city, Severus only needed to humph or grunt at the right time, most of his mind focused on reminding himself he was far different from the mess he had been in fifth year. He was far from defenceless. More importantly, there was no Dumbledore to tip the scales unfairly.
Severus followed as Yasha led him to the Pack's grounds. They went into the only building, large and on ground level, made of wood and stones. It was the training halls, where the Transitional Werewolves learnt to control themselves, and hopefully become Full Werewolves. It also was the place they spent the full moon, physical and magical defences protecting the outside from them as well as the reverse. Severus wondered if Hogwarts werewolf students' place during the full moon looked like this one. They would be even better coming here, to see that they could control the beast.
Yasha led him to a small room without table nor chair. The ground was covered with mats, reminiscing Severus of his first Taichi Defence lesson in Bǎo. Sthir and Lupin were sitting in the middle of the room, talking quietly. They stood up as they entered, Lupin's nostrils flaring as they approached.
"Snape?" he blurted out incredulously, checking him up and down as if he could not believe what he was seeing.
"Lupin," answered Severus coolly, wondering why the Marauder seemed so troubled by different clothes and a little growth spurt.
"You know each other!" exclaimed Yasha, looking at Severus with a pointed look.
"We went to Hogwarts at the same time," answered Severus when Lupin seemed too flummoxed for speech.
"But Remus only finished school about one year ago," said Yasha frowning.
"Snape passed his NEWTs in fifth year, one month after his OWLs," answered Lupin, finally coming out of his trance. "He then became apprenticed to Master Tajniki and disappeared from the world."
He shook his head as he sniffed the air once more.
"You've changed a lot. I would not believe you are Snape if I could not smell you."
Severus rolled his eyes.
"So dramatic Lupin. I've only been gone three years."
Sthir growled softly.
"Let's go back to the purpose of our presence here, shall we?" he asked, sitting down on the mat.
Severus was grateful for the change of subject. He listened with one ear as the Werewolf laid out the terms of the arrangement, repeating the rules of the Sanctuary, explaining the volunteers could stop working with Severus if they did not feel comfortable anymore – as if he would force them – that the volunteers could refuse the test Severus proposed if they wished so, and so on.
Finally, once Severus had agreed he would neither be a tyrant nor a torturer, Sthir announced the real work would begin the next day and promptly left them to their own devices.
Severus was itching to leave Lupin behind too, but Yasha was not in the same hurry. He was looking at Lupin with an indecipherable look.
"So, you two were at school together. And Severus told me he had one unpleasant experience with a Werewolf before coming here..."
Lupin sighed, avoiding to look at any of them.
"Yes it was me, though I have as usual no recollection of it. Some of my friends were idiots and decided I would be the right tool to play a prank on someone they disliked."
"When did it happen?"
"In fifth year," answered Lupin, clearly ill at ease.
As he should be, although the true culprits no doubts had no remorse for almost killing him.
"Peter?" asked Yasha, still speaking as if commenting on the weather.
"He was only on the side of it," answered Lupin defensively.
"But you're still friends with the main instigator and the one who stunned me as you were attacking me," sneered Severus.
Lupin nodded, avoiding his eyes and turning to Yasha.
"We had a huge row. They apologised to me and... They grew up," he said firmly. "They are Pack," he added with a hint of challenge.
Yasha's wolf suddenly shone through and Lupin whined pitifully, making the other Werewolf sigh.
"Six months with us and you still don't understand what Pack means. I really hope Severus' project can help you because you are not improving."
"I know," admitted Lupin, head bowed. "I just..."
Severus wanted to shake him. This was his life and the guy was just admitting defeat already. Seriously. What could you expect from a Marauder really.
"Let's go find Peter," said Yasha decisively. "Do not tell him who Severus is. I want to see if he recognises him," he added with a huge grin of anticipation.
They did not go far as Pettigrew was settled on one stone table near the training halls, reading a huge book. He looked up as Yasha loudly called for him, and waved enthusiastically at them.
"Morning Yasha! What have you done to Remus, he looks even more down than usual," greeted Peter, watching his friend with a hint of concern.
"I'm fine," huffed Lupin.
Peter looked at Severus and brightened.
"You must be the one who will try to help Remus. Thank you so much, I know many have tried and failed but the guys here seem really hopeful you will nail it."
That was a surprise. And more words Pettigrew had ever said to him.
"I am Peter Pettigrew, please call me Peter," the Marauder added.
"Don't mind me if I stick with Pettigrew," answered Severus curtly.
Pettigrew frowned, observing Severus more closely and suddenly gasped at him in disbelief.
"No way. Snape?"
"In the flesh," drawled Severus.
"Man, I did not recognise you," he shook his head ruefully. "I understand better why they think you have a chance at succeeding. A Genius like you."
He had thought the two Marauders would be as hostile as ever when they met him. He had not expected Lupin's shame and Pettigrew's welcome.
Pettigrew suddenly grew pale.
"You won't hold the incident against Remus right? I mean, I'm so sorry Sirius did not plan this one ahead, and I'm sorry I did what he wanted without checking."
An apology. From a Marauder. The sky was going to fall on their heads.
Yasha was listening with great interest and a dangerous glint in his eyes. Severus would bet Lupin and Pettigrew were in for a lecture later.
"I will aim to succeed," answered Severus evenly. If only for himself.
Pettigrew watched him with a surprisingly assessing look. Severus had to admit the last three years had done wonders for him. He had lost some fat, and while he was still smaller than most, he now held himself with assurance. A stark contrast to Lupin who looked like he was trying to disappear on himself.
"How did you find yourself here?" asked Severus neutrally, deciding Yasha would not leave before they had spent enough time socialising.
"Professor McGonagall," answered Lupin. "She knows one of the Pack members and advised me to come here after Hogwarts."
"You waited almost a year before coming here," remarked Severus.
Lupin flushed but nodded.
"Sirius and James were convinced I did not need to come here, that it would only hinder my chances of finding an Apprenticeship. Of course, despite my NEWTs results, every Master refused me under one pretext or another. The universities were no better. Oxfarer refused my inscription. Horeword accepted it under huge restrictions I was not prepared to accept. Utokoto required an Elder to confirm I was a Full werewolf. Which I am not, as you know."
He snarled, the first sign of fight this day.
"Before coming here, I did not know who Elders were, or even that they existed."
Elders were the equivalent of Wises for Goblins, as Severus' friends had told him. It was clear Yasha and Fu-Hsi had led a very different life from Lupin.
"I thought with Hogwarts now officially enrolling Werewolves, the entire world was opened. It took me some time to swallow my pride and admit coming to Kyirong would be for the best. Then I had trouble convincing my parents to let me go until Peter volunteered to come with me," admitted Lupin. "Then we had to contact the Pack, agree on the courses Peter and I would follow,... So yes, I have been here for only six months. I did not realise what I was missing."
"You did not come here during the full moon in seventh year?" asked Severus intrigued.
"No, we went into a deserted place where nobody would hear Werewolves growl and howl at the moon. Where nobody would be at risk."
Severus frowned. From what he had learnt in Kyirong, it was stupid.
"I think it would be a good idea to talk with Sthir about this," he said to Yasha. "If professor McGonagall trusts the Kyirong Pack, Hogwarts could certainly arrange to send its werewolf students here for the full moon. It would give them the chance to learn about werewolves rules and to see how they can improve."
"Good idea, Severus!"answered Yasha enthusiastically. "It would be a bit like the Hogwarts Mentorship to help integrate Muggles right?"
Pettigrew laughed while Lupin uttered a horrified no. Where had Yasha heard about the Mentorship? Was it that well known today? They had never hidden it but neither had they boasted about it.
"No," said Pettigrew. "The Mentorship is only for Slytherins."
"Not anymore," countered Severus.
"No Gryffindor has ever been invited," he retorted.
"Which one would accept?" asked Severus, lifting an eyebrow at him.
Pettigrew seemed to deflate.
"Sorry, you're right. Anyway, Muggles are not the only ones who could benefit from a Mentorship."
"What do you mean?" said Lupin, frowning at him.
Apparently, Pettigrew had never shared the sentiment with him before.
"Come on Remus. Don't tell me you did not notice all the stuff which was obvious to James and Sirius that we had never heard about."
Lupin acquiesced reluctantly.
"We are not Muggles. But their families can almost be traced back to Merlin's time!" continued Pettigrew fervently. "I am the son of two Muggleborns. My parents could not afford to both live in the wizarding world and have my mother remain home to look after me. They both had to work, but they could not afford a tutor. We all know the most well-paid jobs are for Purebloods or those who have connections. Plus, my parents had to pay for my Gran's hospital bills. So they put me in a muggle primary school," he said bitterly. "I was forbidden to use Magic because I could hurt the Muggles with it. When I was hurt or sick, I could not use Potions because healing too fast would have been suspicious. I was lectured when I had bouts of accidental Magic at school. They made fun of me and I could not defend myself because they were Muggles."
Severus was so glad to have dodged that spell. His Mother had had many faults but she had been right to insist on him learning at home.
Lupin was looking at Pettigrew as if he had never seen him before.
"Careful Pettigrew. You're sounding like one of Lord Voldemort's followers," smirked Severus.
"Wouldn't it be good?" asked Yasha perplexed.
"Well, the guy has some good ideas," answered Pettigrew.
"True," admitted Lupin to Severus' surprise. "Especially for creatures' rights. But he is too pro-Purebloods and some of his followers are violently anti-Muggleborns."
"Yes," agreed Pettigrew. "The Death Eaters have done some pretty bad things lately."
That name was even more ugly and stupid said out loud.
"Dumbledore and the Ministry are no better," intervened Severus. "They killed Mister Wilkes without cause."
"The inquiry concluded it was an accident," replied Lupin.
Severus sneered at him. He was so credulous.
"Right, I think that's enough politics for today," said Yasha smoothly. "We'll see you tomorrow Remus?"
"Yes, same time in the afternoon right?" answered Lupin, visibly glad to change the subject.
"Great, see you tomorrow!" said Yasha cheerfully, ushering Severus away with him.
He vaguely nodded at Lupin and Pettigrew, happy to follow his friend away from the Marauders. He had to admit this first meeting had gone far better than he had thought. Gryffindors really gave out information for free. He could make this work, even with Lupin. Please Helhest, prevent the Potter twins from coming here.
For the next two months, Severus went to Kyirong every afternoon. To hide his abilities at best and prevent awkward questions, he had engraved a stone with runes to give the illusion he was studying the Werewolves with it when in truth he was Sensing their Khorlos. The stone's true purpose was to attenuate magic flows around it so Severus had an easier time focusing on Khorlos. He had also made a false wand from an ash tree branch, using magic to give it the form of his former wand and runes so it would feel like a wand to anyone not looking closely.
Of course, when the kids had spied him making his wand, they had begged until they had their own play wand. Frekka only had reminded him not to forget to put it in his Apprenticeship report, thus reminding Drunek Severus had to write a detailed report of all the research, study and actions taken to achieve his project. While Severus had planned to keep detailed notes for himself, it was different when the report was to be read by the Wises who would judge him on it.
During those two months, Severus confirmed his suspicions that Khorlos were the key to understanding Lycanthropy.
First, he observed that for Werewolves, Svādhiṣṭhāna – the Vampires' main Khorlo, and it could not be a coincidence but now was not the time for this line of inquiry – was barely cracked during the new moon while it was wide open during the full moon. Moreover, Lupin's emitted a twisted feeling while Sthir's felt clean. Yasha's was in between, which could explain why only Lupin felt the urge to hunt and hurt humans during the full moon. However, Full Werewolves were still Werewolves, so mastering Svādhiṣṭhāna did not mean getting cured. When Severus asked Sthir if he still had to transform during the full moon, the Werewolf admitted it was not necessary but more comfortable for him. It did not bother him as he remained in control no matter his form.
It made sense to Severus as he was more and more convinced the wolf form was meant to handle the larger amount of Magic passing through Svādhiṣṭhāna when it was wide open. When Sthir revealed some Full Werewolves had gone mad because they had refused to transform for too long, it pretty much sealed the deal. This fact also made Severus wonder if Werewolves main Khorlo was not in fact Svādhiṣṭhāna, thus adding more weight to the theory he would explore after getting his Mastery on the link between Vampires, Werewolves, Wizards and Muggles. For now, Severus decided it did not really matter because clearly, Svādhiṣṭhāna influenced the Werewolves so much it needed to be considered at least as a secondary main Khorlo – even if nobody had ever mentioned it could exist.
Severus was now faced with the delicate problem of handling a Khorlo which evolved every day. According to goblin theory, Werewolves would need a bridge for half of the month, and a wall for the other half. When Severus inquired among the Pack, he discovered no Full Werewolf owned a wand, and all the others except a few Transitional-made ones owned custom made wands. When asked, Sthir answered Severus he did not have a Familiar, but the glint in his eyes made Severus wonder. What if the wolf form was the equivalent of a Familiar once it was mastered? The Shiren would be the equivalent of the Ritual. It was a wild theory, yet Severus' guts told him he was on the right path. He needed to check the mortality rate of the Shiren. And he needed to find out if those who had succeeded had had a common wandmaker.
If he was right, it meant Severus needed to find a way to untwist Svādhiṣṭhāna when it was wide open to allow Werewolves to keep their mind in wolf form by using a kind of wall and bridge combination. He still may be able to use a Potion if it was taken daily to help the body adjust to the Khorlo variation. It might also lessen the twisted feeling. Severus wondered what the cause of this twist was. A twist should only occur with Dark Arts unpaid sacrifices... Were the first Werewolves created through Dark Arts, Magic waiting for each Werewolf to pay the sacrifice? Did passing the Shiren also mean paying the required sacrifice? It seemed far-fetched. He was surely missing crucial information.
All in all, he felt like his project was going well, mused Severus as he made his way to Kyirong. He would need to talk with Drunek about contacting Wandmakers and think of the kind of contract he would need if he were to work with them for his project. He would not be able to learn how to make wands and walls in a few months. He also needed to begin testing herbs and ingredients he could use in a potion to affect Werewolves.
When he arrived at their usual room in the training halls, Severus was surprised not to find his two youngest volunteers waiting for him. While Sthir was busy with Pack business and so usually arrived exactly on time for Severus' observation session, Lupin and Yasha always came to the training halls earlier, the born Werewolf trying to both teach Lupin the werewolves rules and politics, and find out more about Lupin's life before coming to Kyirong.
He waited patiently for ten minutes, wondering what new scheme Yasha had devised to force Lupin to face his inner Wolf, then, accepting they would not come on time on their own, he went to look for them. Severus did not have to walk far before spying Yasha dutifully listening to Sthir. Like many other student-teacher groups, the two Werewolves were making the most of the sunny day and had found a place on the grass surrounding the halls for their lesson.
Yasha looked up as Severus approached and frowned. He spoke briefly to Sthir before getting up and jogging to join his friend.
"Hey Sev, I thought you were not coming today?"
"Why wouldn't I?" answered Severus perplexed.
"Two of Remus and Peter's friends arrived yesterday evening. One of them is getting married in a few weeks and his best-man organised a stag weekend. They came to fetch Remus and Peter before leaving for the USA. From what I understand, there is no love lost between you and them, and Remus wanted to avoid bloodshed."
Potter and Potter-bis were here. Wonderful.
Lily had written Severus she had finally accepted Potter's proposal but he had not realised the wedding would be so rushed. A little voice in his head sounding suspiciously like Evan wondered if Lily had misused her contraception potion but he squashed it viciously. It was none of his business. Noble Houses frowned upon having a child out of wedlock essentially because they considered it was a risk to the future child and, for some, to their bloodline. It would not endanger the child's life in any other way so it was none of his business to speculate like an old gossip. His only problem was the Potters' presence here.
His first instinct was to flee back home. Between the library and Drunek as well as the other clan Röykkiö Thạo, Severus would not waste his time. He only entertained the thought a few seconds. Why should he avoid Kyirong? He had done nothing wrong. Risks of Potter-bis initiating a fight the moment he spotted Severus were one hundred per cent, but it was not Severus' fault. And Severus knew both Potters would be surprised at the issue of the fight. Auror trainees were bound to be below Goblin level. Or Röykkiö level at least, amended Severus in his head. Yet winning a fight could endanger his infiltration trial, if he revealed too much of his new knowledge. Better compromise.
"I see," answered Severus finally. "Well, I'd better make myself scarce then. I wanted to study the plants which only blossom under your kind's care anyway. Care to join me in the Greenhouse when you've finished with Sthir?" asked Severus.
"Sure," answered his friend. "I still have about one hour left I think. I'll bring Fu-Hsi too, he's a bit bored with his assignments, he finds them too easy. Maybe the Greenhouse will entice him to begin a project." He looked back at Sthir who was looking at them expectantly. "Right, my Vakt is getting impatient. See you later."
"Good luck," answered Severus with a smirk.
Yasha rolled his eyes at him.
"I am glad Sthir is my Vakt, you know. Lessons with him are way more interesting than back home. They make sense."
Severus only shrugged as his friend went back to Sthir. He still did not feel completely at ease around the Full Werewolf, even if two months of daily observation and questions had made him less wary.
Nodding to himself, Severus headed to the Greenhouse. He had no chance of crossing paths with the Marauders here as it should remind them too much of schoolwork but he had to be careful not to stumble upon them on the way. Luck was on his side and soon enough, Severus was in deep discussion with Thạo Ōku over the various herbs tended by Werewolves and the ones they avoided. Yasha and Fu-Hsi joined them as Severus was wondering why herbs considered from the same family could have a very different effect on Werewolves. He jumped on the occasion and ran them through various tests, taking avid notes and asking so many questions Yasha began losing his usual cheerfulness. On the contrary, Fu-Hsi was fascinated. When Severus ended the session after one umpteenth complaint from Yasha, he asked if Severus would let him pursue the study and involve other testers to confirm their observations. Severus was only too happy to accept his help. Yasha had to bodily push Fu-Hsi out of the Greenhouse so they would not be late to their weekly Pack meeting.
Severus smiled as he watched them leave, head buzzing with theories and eager to know if they would end up as useful as he thought they could be. He quietly took his leave from Thạo Ōku who was obviously pleased with their experiments and promises of more to come, and began the walk back to the Room of Crossings. He went through the training grounds leisurely, Sensing to Dhaal to meet up at the rooms entrance. He had just walked past the Council building when he spotted Potter-bis talking with another Wizard he did not know but who was obviously from Kyirong judging from his clothes. Severus quickly walked around a building to hide himself from his view, wondering what Potter-bis could ask the Wizard that the other Marauders did not know. He had barely walked two paces, trying to circle around the Marauder when Potter's voice suddenly resonated far too close to him for his liking.
" Did he know where to find him?"
"No Prongs," answered Potter-bis in a frustrated voice. "He did not even know the guy's name, only that he's here today. He always leaves by this road so we should catch him if we wait long enough."
Severus groaned inwardly. It was the shortest way to the room of Crossings and any other path would make him very late for dinner.
"He did give me a description," went on Potter-bis. "Tall, imposing presence, black hair in a ponytail, walks like a fighter."
Who were they searching for? Severus was certain he had never spotted any wizard matching this description in Kyirong. Especially as he was one of the few to regularly leave this way– Wait. Were they looking for him?
Severus almost missed Potter's answer in his incredulity at this supposed description of himself.
Potter whistled in wonder.
"Seems like someone who knows his stuff. I still find it weird he only is an Apprentice. And I really don't understand why Pete and Remy don't want us to meet him."
What Severus wondered was why Pettigrew had not warned him not to come today. Both Lupin and he seemed to have moved past their "schoolboy" history, so why would he take the risk of Severus and the Potters meeting? Unless he was so naïve he thought Potter and Potter-bis could also move past their own grudge, especially now Potter was marrying Lily? Worse, was he hoping they would get along so Severus could be invited to the wedding? Lily had apparently told the four Marauders she had made up with him and considered him a dear friend – from Pettigrew allusions, the fight between Potter and Lily had been epic – and Pettigrew might be trying to get her future husband and Severus to get along now they both were adults.
He snorted to himself at the thought. Potter grown-up. He was not even thinking about Potter-bis. Anyway, while Lupin was too much of a coward to take this risk and potentially alienate the one who could help him with his monthly transformation, Severus could totally see Pettigrew planning this and optimistically hope for the best. Idiot. Severus needed to get out of here quickly before– Helhest! Potter-bis had just turned around the corner. Severus had to–
"Hoy," shouted Potter-bis as he jogged toward him, Potter following close behind.
Severus bit back a curse. He could not retreat anymore. Alright. Deep breath. He needed to limit the damages. Keep the fight under control without showing how much he had learnt. Try to remind them of the Sanctuary's rules. He was pretty sure once Potter-bis recognised him, he would attack. But if he reminded them of how much Lupin needed to remain in Kyirong, they might stop before drastic actions were needed. He would not mind giving them the trashing they deserved but this was neither the place nor the time.
Unconsciously, Severus squared his shoulders as the two Potter reached him.
"Yep, you fit the description," said Potter-bis smiling victoriously. "Would you perchance be the one working with Remus on his monthly furry little problem?"
"I am," agreed Severus coldly.
"Neat!" kept on Potter-bis, "I am Sirius Potter, and this is my brother James," he said gesturing toward Potter. "We are friends with Remus and Peter."
"I am aware," answered Severus, wondering when they would realise who they were talking to and if he should offer them a clue. He was quite baffled by the Marauders inability to recognise him on sight. He certainly did.
Potter was now looking at him with suspicion. Three. Two. One.
"Snape?"
Here they were. He looked like he could not believe it. Seriously, he was training to become an Auror.
"Potter. Potter-bis," answered Severus curtly.
Potter-bis overcame his surprise much more quickly.
"What are you doing here Snivellus?" he snarled, spitting the old insult at Severus' face.
Severus only looked at him coldly. Wonder of wonder, they were the same height. And he felt nothing at the name calling which had once fuelled his anger like nothing else. Only weariness. They had not changed one iota.
"As you guessed mere minutes ago, I am working on a project to help Werewolves during their monthly transformation," answered Severus.
"Of course," said Potter as his twin's reaction called him back from his shock, voice full of contempt. "You are working on Voldemort's orders. He only wants to reward one of his own cronies. And gain followers among those who will be beholden to him when they are in a position of weakness."
This time, Severus felt a surge of anger at the dismissing of his Lord's generous support, the Gryffindor twisting it in an ugly self-serving tool. But he reined it in, keeping it behind his cool facade.
"I am here as part of my Apprenticeship. Lord–"
"Yes, with the infamous Master nobody knows anything about," interrupted Potter-bis. "Surely one of your fellow Death Eaters," he said venomously. "How convenient for you to choose that topic. And Remus as a tester."
"I happen to have a vested interest in Werewolves control thanks to Lupin and you," snapped back Severus.
"Can't handle a little harmless joke Snivellus?" smirked Potter-bis, madness dancing in his eyes.
"How does Lupin feel about this harmless joke?" countered Severus.
Potter-bis' look turned feral at the answer and Severus sighed as he prepared himself for the coming fight. He should have handled this better.
Potter-bis used wordless spells. He was not that bad, for an apprentice. Severus easily took control of the magic flows of his spells to guide them harmlessly into the ground while putting on a light shield around himself to give the illusion it had absorbed the spells. Taking control of the magic flows allowed him to use almost no inside Magic, meaning his opponent would exhaust himself long before he did. Of course, it would be a lot harder against someone who knew how to Sense and control magic flows.
Talking of Sensing, Severus was curious. Careful not to miss any spell coming his way, he focused on Potter-bis' Khorlos. He almost reeled back in shock. From his talk with Narcissa as well as the Black's rumoured madness and his own interaction with Potter-bis, he had suspected the family had a Khorlo problem. He had not expected Ājñā, the Khorlos of spirit, to be that badly twisted, almost oozing sickness to his Sensing. He would need to tell Drunek so Goblins from Kyirong could offer their help in an unsuspecting way without involving himself.
Severus took all of his attention back to the fight as Potter joined in. He was not as skilled or vicious as his twin, but competent enough for an Apprentice. While Severus did not feel in any danger, he could not afford to be overconfident. They had not yet attracted attention but it would not last, so he decided he had let them play enough and accioed their wands to him. Potter's came easily, while Potter-bis', to Severus reluctant approval, resisted several seconds before finally reaching Severus' hand. The two Potter were clearly out of breath while Severus had not even broken a sweet.
"What kind of Dark Ritual did you perform Snivellus?" growled Potter-bis. "Wandless and Wordless Magic when you could barely cast a spell in fifth year? Who did you sell your soul to?"
Severus felt his eyes darkened at the accusation, but two could play that game.
"You were not always so skittish if I remember some of the spells you cast on me in Hogwarts, Potter-bis," drawled Severus, smirking as Potter's eyes widened in surprise and Potter-bis' own eyes shot daggers at him.
"Do you always make your own sacrifices, Potter-bis? I am sure you know what happens when Dark Magic price is not fully paid," he taunted.
"Enough Snape!" snapped Potter.
"Please Potter," said Severus as he smiled a nasty grin. "Do not tell me your Gryffindor's ears are offended by the mere mention of Dark Magic? I do hope Aurors learn how to use it. How could you ever hope to fight it if you do not know its inner workings?"
"Do not try to make us tell you what Aurors are trained to handle," said Potter.
Severus wanted to roll his eyes. Seriously? Did he think the Auror program was confidential?
"And stop trying to change the subject," added Potter. "You cannot have improved so much in four years," he said stubbornly.
Severus sighed. Time to play his trump card.
"Whatever. May I remind you of Kyirong rules?" he said pointedly.
Potter flushed while Potter-bis shrugged.
"I have no intention of coming back here so..."
Severus almost gaped at him. He really had no forethought. You never knew when you might need a Sanctuary.
"What about your Werewolf friend? Don't you think your actions will reflect on him as well?"
Potter-bis clenched his fists and Potter put a restraining hand on his twin's shoulder.
"You're right Sniv– Snape," acknowledged Potter. "Sanctuary's rules must be respected."
He lifted his head to look Severus in the eyes.
"You have our sincere apologies."
Severus did not let his surprise show at the unexpected apology.
"Are you ready to go back to your friends then?" he asked, looking for signs of double-crossing.
"Don't go looking all almighty there Snivellus," sneered Potter-bis, "I know you're up to no good. It was no coincidence you chose Remus for your experiment. You won't be welcomed here for much longer once I've talked to Councillor Greenleaf."
Severus lifted an eyebrow at him, repressing a snort.
"Do you really wish to report this whole incident to a Councillor?"
"They won't care once they know who you are," hissed Potter-bis.
"Do I need to remind you of the Sanctuary's rules?" asked Severus coldly. This farce was lasting far too long.
"No," said Potter firmly while he stomped on Potter-bis' foot. "You have our words we will leave without causing you more troubles."
He could tell they were both angry and frustrated for not winning this fight. But Potter seemed to have found his common sense. Wonder of wonders.
Wordlessly, Severus sent back their wands to them. He watched as Potter manhandled his resistant twin into leaving. He waited until they disappeared from his view to turn his back on them, remaining on high alert for any spell in the back.
There were none and he reached the Room of Crossings without trouble, relieved to find only his Familiar waiting for him. He was glad Dhaal had not been present for the confrontation and resolved to only mention it in passing. His afternoon work with Yasha and Fu-Hsi were far more worthy tales. His Familiar seemed unaware of his thoughts as he only complained to Severus for taking his time to walk to the Rooms when Dhaal was famished.
Severus laughed at his Familiar never satiated appetite and ran after him as Dhaal dashed through the Room of Crossings to reach home and Frekka's food.