Title: Mountain and Shadow
Author: Cobalt Blue Kitty aka Cbc
Fandom: Harry Potter
Pairing: Hagrid/ Snape
Summary: Fate throws two vastly opposite souls, Rubeus Hagrid and
Severus Snape, together. Love and new life soon follows. But will
the wizarding world except them? Begins in the summer before Harry’s
fifth year.
Disclaimer: Sorry, don’t own them, wish I did. That great
joy belongs to J.K. Rowling. I’m just borrowing them for a
bit of fun.
No use suing I haven’t got any money. The only things I do
lay claim to are the people, places, magic, and creatures I create
for this fic.
Archive: Snape Mpreg Archive
****
“
The female of the species is more deadly than the male.”
Rudyard Kipling
****
Spring finally came, bringing with it both new life and more deaths.
As if the changing of the seasons were a signal the Dark Lord stepped
up his attacks on wizard and muggle targets alike, spreading chaos
and fear through the warming nights. Several pureblooded families
who where known as firm supporters of Dumbledore were brutally
attacked.
The Creeveys barely escaped the ambush laid for them. Mr. Creevey
would be spending several weeks in Hogwarts’ hospital wing
recovering as would Mr. Finnigan, Seamus’ father. Unwilling
to let his witch wife fight alone the muggle managed to knock out
two Death Eaters before being brought down by a well aimed hex. It
was only the timely appearance of the Aurors which saved their lives.
The Death Eater attack on the Burrow, the Weasley family home, might’ve
been one of Lord Voldemort’s most important ones; a decisive
strike to spread fear and reluctance among those who would join Dumbledore’s
side, but it was also his most spectacular failure. With Arthur working
late and the children either moved away or at school this left only
Molly Weasley at home that night. Seven Death Eaters apparated onto
the front yard, fully intent on wrecking havoc on the odd shaped
home, torturing and killing every living being inside.
What they got upon entering however was one very pissed off witch.
Molly Weasley was not a meek woman, nor was she a weak one. No one
who knew her brood, especially the twins Fred and George, should’ve
expected her to act like some timid, frightened housewife. She was
a powerful witch, skilled in dueling and willing to fight dirty if
necessary.
Molly took down two of the masked men before they even knew she was
there, one with a hex the other with a well aimed iron skillet to
the head. The fighting was savage, with spells and objects flying
everywhere. It was only after their leader was viciously smashed
in the balls by a half filled tea kettle that the others broke rank
and fled, leaving behind two dead and two wounded.
The gagging, half conscious Death Eater, clutching his bruised and
swelling privates, managed a fumbling escape but not before Molly
tore his mask off and got a good look at the familiar pain pinched
face beneath. Not that her eyewitness testimony did much good seeing
as Fudge was once more willing and able to cover Lucius Malfoy’s
ass.
After learning of the attack Arthur insisted Molly pack up and head
straightaway to Hogwarts. She’d be safe there and the children,
and Arthur himself, wouldn’t be so worried.
Like most of the other adults sheltering in the school Molly helped
out where she could, mostly in the hospital wing and assisting in
teaching the children to fight. Her lessons weren’t so much
on magic as they were on using whatever was at hand. Most dark wizards
relied solely on magic to attack, sparing little or no thought whatsoever
to plain physical weapons. Knifes and clubs were good weapons but
when it came down to it anything could be used in a pinch. Just pointing
out how she brought down two powerful Death Eaters with a skillet
and a kettle was enough to convince most of her students that this
was something worth learning.
As the days passed more and more students and parents were beginning
to notice a certain level of tension among the staff. They seemed
to be divided on some important issue, half siding with Dumbledore
and amazingly the other half siding with Professor Snape. Seating
arrangements at the head table changed just like the drawing of battle
lines, spurring a flurry of rumors.
*~*~*~*
Some mothers swear to have developed an almost sixth sense about
their children, feeling when they’re in danger, in pain, or
up to some mischief.
If this was true then surely Molly Weasley’s sixth sense must
be better than the Air Force’s strongest radar. It certainly
saw enough duty when it was tuned in on the twins.
Fred and George were always up to something and Molly did her level
best to head off the worst before things went too far. Mostly she
was successful but there were a few times the twins managed to slip
their mischief by her. Since coming to Hogwarts Molly had been watching
her boys and noting a strange change in their behavior.
Pranksters to the core Fred and George loved to play little jokes
on their teachers, the key target being their potions teacher Professor
Snape. The stack of letters she’d received about their antics
in the potions lab alone was thicker than most of the books here
in Hogwarts’ library. It was impossible therefore to believe
what she was seeing now. The twins were performing like perfect students,
paying attention to their Potions Master, even going so far as to
volunteering to assist the black-clad man. And most confusing of
all…there was not a single prank in sight.
Then there was the boys frequent disappearances.
Molly had no idea where they were going but they were missing about
two hours each night. Trying to ask the pair about it was useless;
the boys tag-teamed her, leaving Molly with more questions than she
had answers.
After two weeks Molly finally had enough. Fed up and determined to
discover what her mischievous twins were up to Molly decided to go
strait to what she believed was the sources. Since Fred and George’s
behavior was the same in every class except Potions Molly would speak
to Professor Snape. And while she was there she’d just ask
the man about this strange incident that happened out near Hagrid’s
hut which earned her son and his friends such lengthy and arduous
detentions. Ron absolutely refused to tell her anything, even the
threat of eternal grounding failed to pry the information out. Hermione
and Harry were no better; they wouldn’t budge an inch even
though Molly swore Harry was dying to tell her. However Harry did
offer her the use of his invisibility cloak and directions to check
on the potions professor.
He pointed out with a suspiciously evil smirk that while he was forbidden
to tell her anything that didn’t mean she couldn’t go
and find out for herself.
*~*~*~*
As Severus passed into his fourth month his pregnancy became easier
to bear. The symptoms which had plagued his earlier months dwindled
and disappeared.
Now that the morning sickness was gone Severus’ appetite returned
stronger than before. The house Elves were certainly happy to accommodate
the black-clad man’s odd requests that came at the oddest hours.
They just loved preparing his orders for French toast and peach jello,
or chocolate pudding with carrots. He felt invigorated, absolutely
bursting with energy and confidence. His visits to Dr. Lockhart continued,
producing nothing but positive results. The baby was growing at a
steady normal pace and Severus’ health couldn’t be better.
Severus was not what some would consider to be a raving beauty but
Rubeus and his friends among the staff said he’d begun displaying
the warm beautiful glow all pregnant women, and wizards, got during
their pregnancies. Even Fred and George commented on how good he
looked.
Fred and George.
The twins had proven themselves to be invaluable allies.
The illusion spells the boys whipped up worked wonderfully, far better
than Severus could ever have hoped for. To everyone the Potions Master
still appeared to be his normal thin self. But each morning while
standing before the mirror Severus ran long fingered hands down his
chest to cup his gently rounded stomach. It was such a wonder to
him to see his body changing day by day.
With his fears allayed Severus turned his thoughts towards preparations
for his upcoming motherhood. Supplies would have to be laid in, a
nursery designed and prepared, and Severus himself would have to
learn more about the care and handling of newborns. Books could only
teach so much; to be truly comfortable in his new role Severus would
need some hands on experience, or at least tutoring from someone
who had such experience.
*~*~*~*
Collin Creevey exited the hospital wing satisfied his dad was healing
up nicely. Madame Pomfrey had released him last week but insisted
the man come back for checkups till she was satisfied all his wounds
were healed. Not one to wait for news the younger Creevey boy had
accompanied his dad today just to make sure he wasn’t trying
to hide anything from his family.
Still thinking about his father Collin was therefore nearly scared
strait to the ceiling by a familiar and frightening voice coming
from right behind him. “Ah Mr. Creevey, just the Gryffindor
I’ve been looking for.”
Creevey spun around to come face to face with the dreaded Potions
Master of Slytherin. “Pro-Professor Snape! Sir! I’m sorry
I didn’t see you there.” He stuttered slightly, nervously
backing away from the threatening figure in black.
“
Of course you didn’t see me, having no sense as to look where
you’re going.” Professor Snape followed the retreating
boy. “However, I will not remove points for your lack of common
sense seeing as I have come to ask you for…a favor.”
It took a moment for the wizard’s words to sink in but when
they did Collin froze in a mixture of curiosity and dread. “Sir?”
“
You have a most annoying habit of traipsing about the school with
that infernal camera clasped in your hands, irritating the other
students to no end as you snap off pictures of everything within
sight.”
Cold, biting fear seized Collin’s heart and he gripped his
beloved camera tightly. Surely the Professor wasn’t going to
confiscate his camera was he?
“
This habit however placed you in an unequaled position to take a
picture which I highly desire to add to my collection. If you see
fit to provide me with a copy of this picture I shall of course offer
proper payment for it.”
Wait a second. Professor Snape wanted one of his pictures? He was
willing to pay for it??
“
Which one Sir?” The prospect of selling one of his photos to
Professor Snape made him bold.
“
A good shot of Professor Lupin’s dog with its hair shaved off.” And
here the black-clad wizard actually smiled at him. If Collin wasn’t
totally overtaken with the fact that Professor Snape of all people
wanted one of his photos the boy might’ve run screaming down
the hall in fright at the very sight of it.
“
OH! I have several very good, very clean shots of Snuffles. They’re
some of the best work I’ve done yet!”
The Potions Master actually chuckled. “Bring them down to my
classroom after dinner. If they are truly as good as you say I may
very well purchase the lot.”
“
I’ll do that Professor Snape, I promise.”
“
Very well, till later then.” And with that the wizard swept
past the boy, black garb billowing out menacingly behind him. Collin
stood rooted to the spot for a few seconds before bolting down the
halls headed for the Gryffindor dorms. He had some photos to pick
out.
Just a few minutes after dinner a nervous Collin showed up carrying
a thick binder. Nervously he shifted from foot to foot, waiting for
the Professor to give him permission to enter.
Snape finished his notes. Laying his quill aside he leaned back in
his high backed chair. “You may enter Mr. Creevey. I trust
that holds the photos I am interested in?”
“
Yes Professor.”
“
Well come closer then, I don’t have all night.” Collin
scurried forwards. Carefully he laid the portfolio on the older wizard’s
desk and opened it to the photos Professor Snape had inquired about.
Snape leaned forwards eagerly, black eyes scanning over the moving
photos of Lupin’s ‘dog’ and its new hairstyle.
A smile threatened to break through his iron clad control as he watched
his childhood enemy quivering and whining piteously. That glorious
week had went a little ways towards making up for all the hell Severus
had endured at Black’s hands and he wanted something to remember
it by other than a pensive memory.
“
Exceptional.” He breathed, marveling at the color and clarity
of each photo. Never had he beheld such fine workmanship with a camera.
The Creevey boy was truly gifted.
“
Thank you Sir. I brew my own photo potion; it’s the best way
to ensure proper mixing since I changed the formula and all.”
One eyebrow rose in astonishment and question. “You changed
the formula Mr. Creevey? Explain please.” So Collin delved
into a detailed description as to how he changed the long standing
recipe. Now Severus Snape was not an easy man to impress especially
if the person making the effort was a student. But Collin Creevey
impressed him. The boy had taken a complicated potion, broken it
down to its components, and through careful experimentation found
a more efficient formula that suited his needs. His methods were
methodical, following a prewritten course of action. Given these
new facts Severus was going to have to reevaluate his estimation
of the younger Creevey boy. Collin even offered to show Snape his
notes on the whole series of test potions he’d created before
finding the current recipe. When Severus expressed his wish to do
so Collin bolted out the classroom, promising to be back in a few
minutes with the notebook, leaving the older wizard alone with his
portfolio.
Since all his paperwork was finished Severus decided to see what
else lay between the portfolio’s leather bindings. The first
few photos were simple landscape shots; well done but nothing really
to shout about. It was only when the boy turned his lens towards
people and animals did his true talent shine through. Collin possessed
the rare ability to capture his subject’s emotions, to instill
a portion of their very soul into the photo. Each photograph was
better than the last as the boy gained experience and skill. One
photo however captured his immediate and total interest.
It was a picture of himself.
Gazing down at the scene Severus remembered the day this must have
been taken. He’d stopped on his way down from their third floor
room to rest a moment, setting himself comfortably on one of the
large window ledges. With the soft morning sun streaming through
warming his skin Severus dropped his unyielding mask and allowed
himself to enjoy the moment.
He’d believed himself alone that day.
Obviously that had not been the case.
Carefully Severus lifted the photo up. The man setting in the photo
wore his clothes, had his hairstyle, but seemed so different. Gone
was the harsh dark scowl that normally graced his face, replaced
with a serene little smile. His cold black eyes were half lidded
and warmed by the morning sun. Setting there, leaning against the
wall, he actually looked calm and happy.
“
You..you’re not mad are you Professor?” The returned
Collin froze the moment he realized which photo the Potions Master
was looking at.
“
No Mr. Creevey, I am most certainly not mad. If you wouldn’t
mind I would like to purchase this one as well.”
A smug smile blossomed across the youth’s face. “Would
you like that one with or without the illusion spells you’re
wearing in place?”
Black eyes narrowed, a hint of familiar ice creeping into the Professor’s
velvet tones. “Illusion? Perhaps you might reconsider handling
such harsh chemicals unprotected in the future. The fumes have obviously
affected your brain.”
“
I think not Professor.” Growing bolder Collin reached over
and flipped a few pages farther along. This new picture was identical
to the first one in everyway except one; this photo clearly displayed
his gently rounded stomach.
“
Brewed one way the new formula produces clear and detailed photos.
But add a few extra ingredients and it strips away any illusion or
concealment spell within the subject matter.”
Snape raised his dark eyes from the revealing photo. “And what
is required to insure that this remains a secret?” He asked
rather coldly, one long finger tapped the item in question.
“
I won’t say anything Sir. I can keep a secret. There one thing
however I would like.”
Snape’s voice dipped down into the subfreezing range. “And
that is?”
“
Please allow me to take a few more photographs of you.”
That certainly wasn’t what he was expecting to hear. “What?”
“
You’re such an interesting subject even without the pregnancy.
I just know any photo of you would be exceptional.”
Severus really didn’t know which was more shocking; the fact
that Creevey was being completely honest or that he was actually
giving serious consideration to allowing the boy his request. In
the end the temptation to have such photographs of his pregnancy
overrode his natural wariness.
If nothing else came of this foolhardy venture of his Severus was
sure that Rubeus would be pleased with a visual record of his growing
family.
*~*~*~*
Putting his quill down the Headmaster closed his eyes and leaned
back wearily in his chair. It was done. All the paperwork relating
to Hagrid’s death were completed, ready to be dated and signed.
After careful study Albus had chosen several potential beasts with
which to end Hagrid’s life. Each one was considered dangerous
but not so highly ranked that they were heavily restricted. A little
name pulling, a bribe here and there, and Dumbledore secured a specimen
or two of each one on the pretense of using them in the Care of Magical
Creatures classes. He really wasn’t lying; the beasts had been
the basis of Hagrid’s lessons for the last week. According
to the half-giant each creature was docile and easily handled, perfect
for his students. This was just the attitude that Dumbledore wanted
everyone to possess.
After the attack people would simply believe Hagrid had been wooed
into a false sense of security by the animal’s apparent lack
of aggression. There would tears and grief among the students and
perhaps a few of the staff. Severus himself would be devastated,
ripe for the picking. All Albus had to do was insinuate himself back
into the potion maker’s life, be the caring and comforting
friend, and see that those among the staff who’d allied themselves
with Snape backed off and left the man to his care. It wouldn’t
be easy, liberal use of Obliviate and Imperius might be in order,
but Albus was determined to succeed.
His gaze traveled to the window. Hagrid would be starting his rounds
right about now. It wouldn’t be too much longer then. Albus
only prayed that the beast didn’t mangle the body too badly;
he hated the sight of intestines and such.
Dumbledore preferred to kill cleanly. Spells were so much easier
to clean up after.
Blue eyes fell on the little doll setting on his shelf and the old
wizard smiled.
*~*~*~*
Walking down the row of special pens Hagrid’s black eyes filled
with tenderness and love. He couldn’t thank the Headmaster
enough for acquiring these lovely creatures for his class. Most were
young and still growing but a few were mature specimens.
He watched the pair of Dartmoor Hounds playfully fighting over an
old boot he’d given them, their sleek blue-gray hides shining
in the morning light. In the next pen the two immature Griffins,
roused from their nap by the barking, watched with bouncing dogs
with lazy interest.
In one pen separated from the rest, specially fenced and spelled,
held a rare albino Shrieker from North America. Being sterile there
was no worry about the specimen reproducing or evolving into its
flying stage. It paced the pen, sniffing and running its tongue along
the ground in search of food. It wasn’t really a magical creature,
but since they’d appeared without warning in several key areas
the Headmaster thought it best if the children knew how to handle
them. Another special pen, down at the lake’s edge, contained
a young Kelpie he’d named Flopsy.
But the prize, the one he adored the most, was nestled in the last
pen.
Seven heads turned in the half giant’s direction, fourteen
yellow eyes dimmed with age regarded him curiously. The Hydra was
old and quite docile having been in a private zoo since it was hatched.
How the Headmaster got the original owners to part with it Hagrid
wasn’t sure but however it was accomplished Hagrid was thankful
for it.
“
An’ how are yeh today Petals?” He smiled, setting down
the bucket holding the Hydra’s meal of cleaned rabbits. The
multi-headed beast merely rumbled a bit and went back to cleaning
its scales.
As Hagrid went about opening the gate the Hydra suddenly stilled,
seven heads swiveled around to fix on the unaware man.
The spell had been very carefully laid, hidden beneath layer upon
layer of concealment charms. It had waited just for the right trigger,
the exact moment on which to strike. And that moment was now.
Magic tingled, and then flared as the gate opened and the half giant
stepped in. Shifting from foot to foot, tail twitching in pain and
agitation, the Hydra growled and snapped its jaws.
One step…
Two step…
Three….
Agonizing pain flared along its nerves and seized control of the
Hydra’s body, sending the beast charging towards Hagrid.
The half giant spun around at the sound of the monster’s roar.
He barely had time to jump out of the way as the great bulk swept
by. Missing his target the Hydra turned, talon-tipped feet scrambling,
tearing up the turf as it lunged forwards for another try. Hagrid
immediately grabbed for his wand but the damn thing was tangled in
his coat. Luckily he wasn’t without other forms of magical
defense.
Reacting to the magic forcing the attack the mistletoe pendant activated.
A magical dome appeared around the half giant’s prone body,
deflecting the biting jaws and lashing talons. Enraged, driven on
by the painful spell, the Hydra continued to attack.
Hagrid tried to placate the beast but as it was fully in the spell’s
grasp his soothing words had very little effect. Finally Hagrid managed
to free his wand and quickly stunned his newest pet. The Hydra stumbled
and three of its heads dropped forwards unconscious but it didn’t
fall. The other four heads continued to attack the invisible barrier.
Two more stupefy spells were required to finally fell the beast. “Well,
wonder what brought that about?” The big man stood over the
Hydra and scratched his head in puzzlement.
*~*~*~*
Trelawney sighed in pure relief as she floated invisible above the
half giant’s prone form, watching the Hydra’s last head
hit the ground. She was never more grateful that Merlin had freed
her from the tower than right now.
In order to secure her safety Merlin had tied her spirit to the pendants
both Snape and Hagrid wore. Within the wood she was protected from
the Headmaster’s detection. As an added bonus Sybil now had
the opportunity to protect this unlikely couple from her murderer’s
dark plans.
Residing in the mistletoe pendant had some other benefits that didn’t
relate to treachery and murder. It placed her within close proximity
to Merlin.
The ancient wizard was very fascinating. Merlin was so much more
than the myths and legends made him out to be. He drew her like a
moth to a flame and she went willingly. Merlin was very free with
his compliments on her courage, determination, and her beauty. Sybil
was unsure how to handle Merlin’s soft spoken words and studying
eyes. All her life she’d been told her looks weren’t
impressive, that she was rather comely. Now here was someone, a very
charismatic and powerful someone, a true legend among wizards, making
advances to her. Not having ever confronted a situation like this
before the Sybil didn’t have a clue as to how she should properly
react or respond.
Still pondering these perplexing events Sybil floated behind Hagrid
as the wizard headed for the castle. As they passed one pen the Dartmoor
Hounds lifted their heads, sniffing the spirit as she passed them.
*~*~*~*
(It must be over now.) Dumbledore sat down his now empty glass.
Two shots of fire whiskey had calmed his nerves nicely. Hopefully
it would be enough so that when called down to view the carnage he
wouldn’t throw up.
He expected one of the professors or a student to be calling on him
to tearfully report Hagrid’s grisly demise, therefore the old
wizard was incredibly shocked when Hagrid himself, dirty and disheveled
and sported several scraps, appeared at his door. Albus hid it well
and listened as the half giant reported everything that went on at
the pens. Dumbledore promised to examine the beast as soon as he
could pull himself away from his work. It wasn’t the answer
Hagrid wanted to hear but he wasn’t about to argue with the
Headmaster.
Once Albus was alone again he immediately reached for the bottle
of whiskey. He could just hear his fellow conspirators now. Nicholas
would be more understanding than their cloaked companion who would
no doubt demand to handle matters himself.
If that were to happen it would be an absolute bloodbath.
He was not known for being subtle.
Perhaps Albus could head matters off if he had another plan in motion,
something a little simpler and straightforward.
Pouring himself another drink Albus sat back to think.
*~*~*~*
Upon hearing of the attack at the pens Severus’ first actions
were to thoroughly check his husband over for injuries. Once he was
satisfied that the half giant was relatively unharmed his next move
was to draw his wand and head down to the pens. Rather than risk
the Hydra’s next assault being more successful Severus decided
to end the threat the beast represented. It took quite a bit of convincing,
namely several hours of lovemaking, on Hagrid’s part to dissuade
the smaller man from his self appointed task. In the end, right before
he fell asleep, Snape agreed to allow Rubeus his new pet so long
as there were no more instances of aggressive behavior.
*~*~*~*
Over the next few weeks Molly Weasley put Harry’s invisibility
cloak to excellent use. Tailing the students around to their classes,
checking out the old hideouts she remembered from her own time at
Hogwarts, and spying on the Potions Master as often as time allowed.
Severus Snape was not the man she believed him to be, not the man
most of the wizarding world believed him to be. The more Molly watched
him between classes or in the privacy of his quarters and lab the
more she wondered if that man ever really existed.
In class the wizard was still an imposing figure, dishing out criticism
and stripping points in equal measure. Anywhere that Snape appeared
in public what she now called ‘the mask’ was set firmly
in place. The trademark sneers, menacing voice, and sarcastic quips;
everything that made Severus Snape the most hated and feared teacher
in the school out in plain sight. Only when he retired from prying
eyes did the mask fall away and a new man, or at least partially
new, lay revealed. This man still retained his wit, caustic nature,
and sarcasm, only now tempered down by love and tenderness.
That he and Hagrid were wed was certainly a surprise. Who would have
thought two such opposite men would fall in love and marry. This
just had to be what Harry, Hermione and her son were refusing to
speak about. No other student seemed to know that two of their teachers
had recently married. When asked about this Ginny expressed surprise
and a great deal of excitement. Evidently Professor Snape had at
least one supporter in Gryffindor.
But surely there must be more to this secret the teens were keeping;
it felt to her as if there were something else missing.
Molly thought she’d seen all the surprises in store from Snape
and his husband but she was wrong. One day after the end of his last
class Molly slipped in. She watched silently as Snape finished locking
up the supply cupboards and tidied up one area the students had missed.
Neatness was something to be admired in a man was Molly’s firm
belief after dealing with her husband and six boys. Satisfied all
was secured Severus departed for his dungeon quarters unaware he
had an invisible shadow. Mrs. Weasley just managed to slip through
portrait before it closed behind the black clad man.
Safely inside his refuge Snape bustled about. He hung up his outer
robe and stripped down to his undergarments. Molly blushed furiously
beneath the cloak, Snape was very nicely built and while she was
married it didn’t stop her from appreciating a firm male body.
As he picked up his bathrobe Molly knew it was time to leave. Once
Severus was in the bath the sound of running water would conceal
her departure. But before the man reached the door he stopped before
a full length mirror setting in the corner. Setting down his clean
garments he reached up and touched the mysterious mistletoe pendant
that never left his person.
If Molly had not already been holding onto the pillar she was standing
by she would’ve immediately grabbed onto it now. Shocked she
watched the man’s outer appearance change, his stomach growing
noticeably rounder-- a very familiar round. Molly remembered doing
this very same thing six times; standing before the mirror and touching
her stomach where new life lay nestled and growing.
Not only had Severus fallen in love and married Hagrid he’d
gotten pregnant by the half giant, something none of those pureblood
snobs, be they students or adults, would willingly accept or even
condone.
This must be the secret, the entire secret, which earned the children
their extensive punishments. She needed to talk to Ginny, find out
what else was going here. She needed to understand everything before
she confronted both her boys and the potions teacher.
*~*~*~*
Merlin watched the cloaked woman leave Severus’ quarters with
mixed trepidation. He didn’t sense any malice in her actions
but that wasn’t to say that she might develop some later. At
first her intrusion into the Professor’s private space gave
Merlin cause to hope. Who better to teach Severus about rearing children
than a woman with such a brood as hers. Therefore he allowed these
secret visits while ensuring she didn’t come to harm either
man.
But as each visit ended and the woman had yet to reveal herself Merlin
wondered if perhaps she only there to spy for Dumbledore. However
this notion proved false. Molly Weasley only spoke to the Headmaster
in passing and never once attempted to send him written messages.
Merlin could feel the witch had come to a decision but as to what
it was he couldn’t say. The ancient wizard could only hope
that whatever that decision was it would be beneficial for Severus,
Rubeus, and their child.
*~*~*~*
Severus sighed as the last student exited the classroom, leaving
him alone to clean up the last bit of debris. Despite all the times
he’d lectured these children about cleaning up after they finished
their potions litter still continued to be left behind. He could
assign detentions till he was blue in the face but nothing so far
had broken the brats of this nasty habit.
At least today the mess wasn’t as bad as usual. Maybe there
was hope for a few of them.
He was just gathering up some remaining bits of Silverleaf when Molly
Weasley of all people walked in followed close behind by her youngest
Ginny. This wasn’t anything to be concerned about till she
closed and locked the door behind her.
“
Professor Snape I want a few words with you.” She advanced
on the black clad man with a determined air he was quite familiar
with from previous visits.
“
Mrs. Weasley, to what do I owe the dubious pleasure of this visit?”
“
What exactly is it that my boys are assisting you with?”
One black eyebrow rose up in curiosity. “Your boys? Do you
mean that nerve wracking pair of miscreants Fred and George?”
“
Yes! Fred and George! I’m certainly not talking about Bill,
Charlie, or Percy. I’ll ask about Ron and his friends after
you’ve answered my first question.”
“
Madame, your sons have merely been serving as my assistants in order
to lessen the durations of their exceedingly numerous detentions.” The
Potions Master wiped clean another desk before moving to the next
work area.
The woman scoffed. “You’re going to have to do better
than that Professor.”
“
It is the truth.” That was the cover story they’d worked
out to explain the twins spending so much time with him.
“
If you don’t tell me the truth right now I’m going to
the Headmaster and demand he force you to explain.”
“Mum.” Even Ginny was shocked at the level of anger
in her Mother’s voice.
“
I know about your marriage to Hagrid, about your baby.”
Molly hated doing this, hated forcing the man to talk to her like
this. But she didn’t see any other way. Severus Snape held
secrets so tightly he almost squeaked when he walked.
Furious Severus barely kept himself from drawing his wand.
How dare this witch come barreling into his domain demanding answers
and spouting off secrets anyone with an ear and an ease dropping
spell could pick up! And while he could curtail the twins’ enthusiasm
with threats of retracting his offer of potion aid and Ron with
dire retribution from his own housemates over heavy point loses
Severus had nothing with which to purchase their mother’s
silence save maybe expelling her children and that was something
he wouldn’t do. “I will not discuss my personal life
here in this classroom,” and with robe flaring about around
him the Potions Master retreated through the connecting door to
his office. If the Weasley family women wanted to talk to him they
would just have to follow. Molly strode into the lion’s den
confidently while her daughter followed at a more sedate pace.
Inside the Professor settled himself behind his large desk, comforted
by having such a barrier between himself and the two ladies. Severus
had great respect for Molly Weasley. Raising seven children on
what little income Arthur earned and seeing each graduating child
go on to a good job was no easy task. Many other, weaker, woman
would’ve folded under such oppressive odds. But not Molly.
He waited till both his unexpected guests were seated before plunging
headlong into the deep end. “Explain if you would please how
you came to believe that I am..pregnant.”
“
Well, the signs are all there,” The red-headed woman seemed
a tad nervous as she answered. Immediately alarms went off in his
head; if she were a student Snape would expect she was hiding something.
Scare tactics that succeeded so well with children wouldn’t
work on such a strong willed adult; other measures were called for.
“
Signs. Somehow Mrs. Weasley that seems very unlikely.”
“
Oh? You may not look like you’re pregnant right now, must be
a concealment charm, but I know a pregnant person when I see one.” Molly
sat up straighter, arms crossed, a determined look on her face that
rivaled any he’d seen before.
“
I don’t believe you. I shall admit that I am indeed with child,
but I have gone to great lengths to cover the existence of my condition.
The safety of I and my child depends upon secrecy. That you have
breeched those charms is most disturbing.”
Ginny watched her mother squirm ever so slightly and a stray memory
came to the foreground of her mind. “Mom, what were you doing
with Harry’s cloak?”
“
What???” Both adults turned to look at the girl. “When
you asked me about Professor Snape you had Harry’s cloak slung
over your arm.”
Black eyes gleaming with anger narrowed. “How interesting.
Tell me Mrs. Weasley, how long have you been following me with that
infernal garment of Potter’s?”
The woman couldn’t meet his dark gaze, an embarrassed blush
coloring her cheeks. “Several weeks.”
“
No doubt you thought nothing of invading the sanctuary of my private
quarters in your quest to uncover my secrets. Did you at least have
the decency to leave before I and my husband engaged in anything
of an intimate nature, or did you stay and gain some sort of twisted
pleasure by watching us.” The anger and disgust in his tone
was well warranted in Ginny’s opinion.
“
How dare you think I’d do such a thing!” Her mother jumped
to her feet in outrage.
The Professor remained seated however. Despite his anger Severus
refused to allow that anger to overwhelm as it had in the past; it
wasn’t good for the baby. Instead he focused on how he could
use this situation to his advantage. If he secured Molly Weasley’s
support and assistance much of his worries would be reduced. The
woman could certainly teach him the in and outs of caring for a newborn
baby. If she didn’t know how then certainly no one else would.
“
And what else am I supposed to think?”
“
All I wanted to know was why my boys were acting so strange and Ron
and his friends were serving such heavy detentions. They refused
to tell me so I went about discovering it on my own.”
If anything Snape’s frown grew more pronounced. “So out
of the goodness of his heart Potter offers you the use of his cloak.
Did he perhaps drop a few discreet hints as to what you should be
searching for?” “He did mention that I should keep a
close eye on you.”
“
Hmm, no doubt he’s still angry that he and his cohorts were
caught trying to hex me in the back. It’s made the boy act
even more foolishly than before.” That gave Molly pause. “They
tried to hex you?” Snape nodded. “If it hadn’t
been for the kindly intervention of one of Hagrid’s animal
friends there is no telling the damage their attack might’ve
caused. That Potter himself attempted a second spell after discovering
my pregnancy only spurred my determination to sentence all three
to the strongest detentions possible within my power.”
“
If I remember rightly attacking a teacher is cause for immediate
expulsion.” The woman returned to her seat while she waited
for Snape to answer. He had to be lying now. Professor Snape wanted
Harry Potter expelled too much to let such a chance pass him by. “And
if it were anyone else but Potter’s gang I would’ve had
the immense pleasure of seeing their miserable hides booted out of
this school. But these are the Headmaster’s prized Gryffindors;
they’re allowed to do anything they damn well please even if
it includes murder.”
Molly snorted. “Now aren’t you going a bit far?”
“
Perhaps you remember Remus Lupin? He was the school’s DADA
teacher during your son’s third year.”
“
Oh yes, he was the one who was a werewolf wasn’t he?”
“
Yes. Remus Lupin was in the same year as I, as was Sirius Black,
Peter Pettigrew, and James Potter. They called themselves the Marauders
and they made it their sacred duty to make my years at Hogwarts as
miserable as possible. It didn’t matter how many times their
so called ‘pranks’ ended up sending me to the hospital
wing I was always blamed. Dumbledore was very fond of those four.
During our sixth year I became curious about where Lupin disappeared
every month. Looking back now I can admit it was stupid of me to
believe anything that Black said but I let my curiosity overrule
my common sense. He told me how to get past the whomping willow so
that I could follow Lupin which is exactly what I did that night,
the night of the full moon.”
“
Oh no,” breathed Molly in shock. Ginny herself wasn’t
as surprised as her mother. She and Neville had accidentally overheard
part of Ron, Harry, and Hermione’s conversation about the incident
at the Shrieking Shack right before the year ended. But this was
the first time she’d gotten to hear the entire background story.
“
Potter learned of Black’s deed and rushed down the tunnel,
reaching me seconds before Lupin could sink his teeth into me. As
it was the beast had clawed me several times, I was bleeding quite
heavily. After spending three days in Pomfrey’s dubious care
I was escorted up to the Headmaster’s office where I watched
as he let Black off for my attempted murder with only a light detention
and twenty points from Gryffindor. To Potter he awarded forty points
for saving me so Gryffindor won more than they lost.”
To their credit both females looked appalled.
“
When I protested Dumbledore ordered me silent under the threat of
expulsion. So you see Mrs. Weasley I have no doubt that the Headmaster
would once again award his precious special ones for their vile deeds.
After all I’m only a Slytherin, it’s not like I’m
worth anything.”
“
Professor that’s not true! You’re worth so much more
than that nasty Black!” Ginny was the first to react. “Absolutely
right Ginny dear. It was terribly wrong of the Headmaster to treat
you that way. Black should’ve been expelled on the spot.” Her
mother agreed.
Molly herself had heard little snippets of this tale from one of
her nieces who’d just started school that year but without
the full story there was nothing her Arthur could’ve done to
help the much wronged young wizard.
“
It’s nice to hear someone speak those words, even if they are
many years too late.” And here Snape actually smiled. “But
the Headmaster would’ve treated this incident exactly the same
way he treated all my previous interactions with Gryffindor children;
a tap on the wrist for them and humiliation and pain for me. That
is why I have been so heavy handed with their punishment.”
“
Now that I know the facts behind it I understand and agree. And when
I see your brother Ginny he and I are going to have a long talk about
what is acceptable behavior, perhaps I should have it with Harry
too.” It was an extremely pleasant to sit there and watch Molly
Weasley switch into her stern mother mode. Severus almost felt sorry
for Potter and Weasley, almost.
“
Well,” Molly’s attitude shifted from anger to cheerful. “Now
that you’ve answered my original questions I just have one
more left.” “And that is?”
Her face lit up with a wide smile. “How can I help you Severus
dear?”
Black eyes widened in momentary shock before he returned her smile.
*~*~*~*
Hideous, that’s what the thing was, absolutely hideous; a
sickening mass of black twisting, serpentine tendrils coiling about
itself.
Sinestra eyed the writhing vines dubiously. “Do you really
think it’ll work?”
“
Of course it will.” Sprout tapped the table lightly with her
wand, smiling darkly as the black leafed plant violently lashed out
towards the vibration source. “Assassin vines are very aptly
named. Once centered on a target they’ll wait patiently, totally
ignoring everything else, till their intended victim is within striking
distance. A thousand people could walk within inches of it without
fear. Only the poor unfortunate bastard who’s the target can
trigger it.”
Sinestra’s cruel cackle could chill bones with its frigid tones. “Just
perfect. We don’t have to worry about some brat stupid enough
to stumble onto it and getting mangled accidentally.”
“
No one need fear except Snape,” the short witch’s eyes
seemed to gleam with an unholy light. “If the blade leaves
and crushing constriction don’t kill him the plant’s
toxic sap will. Once the filthy swine’s dead the vine will
return to dormancy; nothing remaining but a shriveled up little seedpod
which I’ll discreetly collect later.”
The two women shared a deep laugh before the Astronomy teacher chanced
upon a disturbing thought.
“
What if Snape knows how to fight it?”
Now it was Sprout’s turn to cackle evilly.
“
Impossible! This little killer’s been considered extinct since
1379’s Ministry ordered purge. Only a few plants survived the
destruction, all carefully hidden and tended to deep in the woods
on my family’s estate. Even back then the Sprouts were herbologists
and the thought of the deliberate genocide of a species was abhorrent
to us.”
“
Perfect, absolutely perfect.” The taller woman hummed in approval. “It’s
been dead so long it’s no longer even talked about.”
“
Do you have the item?” Sprout said.
To this Sinestra drew an envelope out of her robes. “Here,” she
dropped the white thing into Sprout’s hands. “Nipped
it off the back of his chair after breakfast today.”
Carefully the Herbology teacher removed the strands of black hair
from their paper resting place. The spell was harsh, almost grunted,
sounding as evil as it truly was. Within seconds of the spell’s
casting the vine shuddered and laid still with the target now fully
affixed to its magical essence. Stored away in a small carrying basket
it was now up to her partner in murder to deliver the vine to one
of the dark secluded halls which led to Snape’s personal store
rooms. Sprout would arrange some reason for Snape to visit them and
that would be the end of the bastard staining their fair school forever.
