In His Charge (The morning after Narcissa's marking ceremony)

[_the_ice_queen]

The morning after her marking ceremony, Narcissa was to see Severus. She had been put in his charge along with Draco and Lucius, and she was to be his acolyte. The Dark Lord, it seemed, was too busy for new recruits, particularly the wives of the dishonoured. Severus would see to her assignments and training, exploiting her talents and her wiles as he saw fit. She hadn't spoken much to Severus since her plea for help, and with Lucius away, the adjustments had been difficult. It wasn't easy to be friends with someone who shared your husband's affections. But there were no secrets, and over time, she had learned to accept this 'arrangement.' Even through the fits of jealous rage.

In truth, she wanted to see Severus just as much for a pain draught and salve. Her forearm was throbbing from the Mark, and she was certain the Dark Lord had been rougher with her - because he could.

Standing outside his door, Narcissa knocked three times and called his name, hoping to Merlin she hadn't waken him.