Christmas Surprise Part 5
Title: Christmas Surprise Part 5
Team Name: Death Eater.
Word Count: 9x100=900
Rating: NC-17
Challenges have included: the Babylon 5, Santa Severus, Christmas Eve/Day, and Runaway challenges. This weeks fits best under the Runaway! challenge.
Disclaimer: Everything belongs to JKR.
AN: Sorry it took so long for this one. There will be more - including something about... Sybil Trelawney!
Warning: Mentions of Violence, Rape, and multiple Character Deaths.
-----
"Severus, don't sulk, you look -" Hermione began.
"Ridiculous," he snarked.
"No, dignified."
"A dignified Father Christmas?"
"Exactly. Not that 'Santa Claus'. You and Mr Brown chose well."
"I am wearing at his behest, he is our landlord and employer."
"Severus, it's only to hand gifts out." She looked down.
Severus tipped her chin up. She was crying silently.
"It's important to Mr Brown. The battered women's shelter is named for his daughter. It makes me think of..."
"I know," he said, holding her. "But, it's Christmas Eve, and Father Christmas must go and make merry." He grimaced.
"I love you, Severus."
-----
Hermione felt lost after Severus left. She tried to occupy herself by preparing a simple Christmas Eve celebration. She wished Mr Brown wasn't visiting his son. She'd been working as his attendant for five months. She and Severus were in hiding. The only safe place was in the Muggle world, living as Muggles. The adjustment had been difficult, but, they were together. That's what mattered. Severus worked in Mr Brown's rare book shop. He had come to almost enjoy the older man's company. Mr Brown was a retired Professor from Scotland. Hermione liked her life here, but, she mourned all she left behind.
-----
Hermione walked through the flat with a critical eye, straightening things. She was finally satisfied. The small tree glowed with clear lights and glass baubles. The smell of baked things wafted from the kitchen. A bottle of wine was chilling. Mr Brown had given it to them. She felt a twinge of sadness, it wasn't their traditional elf-made wine.
She just need to get her washing from downstairs. She opened the door. A scream died in her throat. He stood there. The reason they were in hiding. He shoved her back into the flat, slamming the door.
"Where is he?" he demanded. His wand pressed into her throat.
-----
Hermione stared in shock. This couldn’t be happening.
“Where is he?” he hissed, eyes slitted. “I will not ask again.”
“I don’t know. He’s working, but, I don’t know exactly where.”
“Liar!” he snarled. ”Legillimens
Hermione drew a breath as her Occlumency shield formed. She did not show her relief. She hadn’t need Occlumency for months. Severus had taught her well.
“Bitch!”
An explosion of pain pulls Hermoine from her mind.
Banging her head into the wall viciously with each word: “What trick is this?” he demanded.
“No trick,” Hermione said. “It is Occlumency,” she whispered, as she lost conciousness.
-----
”Ennervate!” he hissed, hauling Hermione up. “No one can keep me out. Certainly not a Mudblood whore!”
Hermione looked into the face of the enemy; she saw no mercy or compassion, it was so distorted by rage and insanity. It was barely human. There was no escape. She and Severus would be killed this time. “Severus taught me,” she said.
“Tell me where he is?”
“No.”
“Mudblood bitch!” He reigned blows down on her merciously.
“No,” she gasped.
“I know tortures you’ve never imagined.”
“You’ll torture and kill me regardless. I won’t tell you anything.”
-----
“How dare you speak to me like that. I will teach you proper respect Mudblood. Look at the way you’re dressed. He sneered at her Muggle clothes and tore them off. And this hovel...” He turned the tidy kitchen into a pile of rubble in seconds. “Come Mudblood he said as he dragged her into the bedroom. “Isn’t this sweet?” he said mockingly, as he saw the hand knit stockings, and the sweets on the pillows. “How romanitc. Don’t worry Mudblood, you’ll get it tonight, better than he’s given you.” He leered, running his hand roughly over her.
-----
‘Don’t react to him, that’s what he wants,’ Hermione repeated the mantra silently to herself. ‘He can hurt my body. He can”t touch my mind, my soul, or me. He can’t touch me.’ She could endure physical torture. She could separate from the pain. Her thoughts began to race. ‘I can’t stand it if he... No!’ She stopped her racing thoughts. ‘I will die this night. I will be tortured and die. When he rapes me it won’t be any different from any other torture. He will torture and kill my body. He can not touch my soul.’
-----
Hermione felt herself thrown violently. She raised her head. They were in the library.
“I should have know.” He stalked to the bookshelves. He pulled books out tearing them and tossing them aside. He pulled a worn leather one out, several photos fell from the pages.
Hermione cringed as she watched him study them.
His look darkened at the last picture. He advanced on Hermione. “Who is this?”
“She was my friend.”
“She was a whore!”
“You tortured her for days before you killed her.”
“She deserved it!”
“BASTARD!” Hermione grabbed for the photo knocking him into the fireplace.
-----
A roar of enraged pain made the walls tremble. Green sparks flew around him as he swooped down on Hermione. “You burned me!” he hissed, exposing the blistering burn on his face.”You will suffer for this.”
Hermione closed her eyes. She felt him drag her closer to the fire.
“Open you eyes,” he ordered. He held a glowing coal.
Hermione remained impassive, until she smelled her flesh burning. Her control slipped for a fraction of a moment, and she felt the pain. She began to scream.
He smiled in evil satisfaction. “She screamd too,” he whispered in Hermione’s ear.
-----
Hermione was desperate to separate from the pain. She couldn’t. It was everywhere. She was drowning in it.
“This is how it should me, Mudblood whore. You screaming and begging me to kill you.” As he spoke he lay her out on the kitchen table. “I can’t kill you yet, Mudblood. He has to be here to watch me enjoy you.” He ran his leather gloved hands cruelly over her bruised body.
“No... Please, no.”
“You don’t want to wait, Mudblood? I wouldn’t want to be rude.” He advanced on her.
“No...” Hermione’s pleading turned to screams of pain.
-----
‘Why doesn’t he just kill me?’ Hermione thought. ‘Let me die. I can’t stand this. Can’t breathe... Can’t see... Darkness... Cold...’
“Not bad, Mudblood.” Glancing down he notices how pale she is. ”Ennervate!” “No dying until he gets here.
The door bursts open revealing three identical Father Christmases.
Expelliarimus!
Incarcerous!
Stupefy!
The spells are cast almost as one.
He roars, seemingly unaffected by the spells, and charges. "There can't be three of you!"
Incarcerous!
Stupefy!
Sectumsempra!
He is down, but, still raging. Two Father Christmases hold him at wand point. The other rushes to Hermione.
-----
Severus is at Hermione's side, casting healing spells; and releasing her bonds. "Hermione, it's Severus. Wake up, you're safe. He's gone."
She doesn't respond.
"Hermione, it's Severus, open your eyes."
Hermione struggles to open her eyes. "Severus, we must be dead; but..." She winces in pain. "Hurts. Shouldn't hurt if dead."
"You are alive, Hermione."
"How? He found- "
"Quiet Hermione, you're injured. I have summoned a Healer. You must rest. I will explain everything."
"Stay with me?"
"Hermione, I will never leave you. I love you."
"I love you."
-----
Severus watched as Hermione slept. Her pallor made the bruises covering her appear more vivid.
“She'll sleep now,” Healer Dunesbludgeon said. “The potion works on pain, also.”
“She was extremely weak,” Severus snapped. “I do not think -”
“Professor Snape,” Healer Dunesbludgeon interrupted, “the Curatio Potion allows her body to heal as she sleeps. Examine it.” She handed him the phial.
Severus sniffed and swirled the contents critically. He handed it back silently, with a cursory nod.
Remus appeared at the door. “Severus, I need to talk with you.”
Severus hesitated, looking at Hermione..
“I'll stay with her,” Healer Dunesbludgeon said.
-----
Severus walked into the kitchen with Remus. He didn't notice the kitchen had been scourgified of any evidence, and repaired. “What is it, Lupin?” he snapped.
“I thought you should know what's happened.”
“Tell me.”
“The Americans have ceded custody to the International Magical Authorities.”
Severus nodded grimly. He expected this. “What will be done with him?” Severus hiss.
“He will never be free again,” Lupin assured him. “He's accused of enough,” Remus paused, “I wish Azakaban still used Dementors,” he growled.
Severus looked at him in confusion. This was unlike Lupin.
“He's killed so many... because, he enjoys it.”
-----
“Who,” Severus asked.
Remus began, his voice weary, “Ginny, and then Ron confronted him. Ron died trying to kill him. Minerva and Filius when he tried to burn Hogwarts. He killed Hagrid. He was slaughtering unicorns.”
“It's difficult to kill a giant,” Severus said.
Remus nodded grimly. “He decapitated him from behind.” Remus spoke flatly, seeming to want to end the discussion. He went on a rampage at Neville and Luna's wedding. He killed them and several guests: Cho Chang, Dean Thomas, the Creevey brothers, and the Patil twins.”
“Why was he not stopped?” Severus demanded.
Remus lunged at him.
-----
Severus stepped easily out of Remus's way. Remus was raging. Don't you think we've tried? Don't you think I've tried? He attacked my Tonks. You haven't seen him. His power grows with each atrocity he commits.
Severus was shocked. Why hadn't Kingsley told him about Tonks? “Lupin,” Severus said quietly, “I didn't know. When did he... When did she die?”
Remus looked at Severus in confusion. “Tonks survived,” Remus replied.“ Just barely. “The Dark Magic had permanent affects. She'll never work as an Auror again. She can't have children.” Remus paused, and almost smiled. “But, we've adopted a little boy.”
-----
Remus looked at Severus. “I’ve asked myself the same question. Why didn't I stop him sooner?”
Severus saw his own guilt, mirrored in Lupin’s eyes. “Why did I not stop him?” Severus asked. “Are there more victims?”
Lupin nodded wearily. ”He made Bill Weasley watch while he tortured and violated Fleur. He killed them both. He helped Lucius Malfoy escape. Lucius found him torturing Narcissa. He killed them separately. He kept Bellatrix LeStrange captive. She was important in the end. She died. Arthur and Molly Weasley's deaths were disguised as an accident. Fred and George are the only Weasleys left.
-----
“When did the idiots finally accept the truth?” Severus asked in disgust.
“It was gradual. There were too many deaths and suspicious accidents to blame on supposed renegade Death Eaters. Bellatrix was instrumental.”
“How did he capture Bella?” Severus asked in disbelief.
“I don't know details. He took her magic. She was his captive for months. He would leave her alone between torture sessions. She escaped and was found by Aurors. They didn't believe her. She was taken to St Mungo's. On Healer, a friend of Ginny's, believed her. She told us. Bellatrix died before we could speak to her.
-----
Kingsley arrived. “Remus, we have paperwork we need to finish, and, we leave tomorrow afternoon.”
Remus turned to Severus. “I would like to see Hermione before we leave, if she's well enough.”
“I'm sure she'll want to see you,” Severus replied.
***
After they left, Severus sat by the bed and watched Hermione sleep.
Hermione woke slowly. Severus was sitting in a chair. Potion bottles covered the dresser. Something was wrong. This was their Muggle flat. “Severus,” she said, reaching for him. Pain erupted within her at the movement. She remembered everything: the fear, the pain; and then, her unexpected rescue.
-----
Severus had barely closed his eyes, when he heard Hermione move. “Hermione,” he said, seeing the pain in her eyes, “you are in pain. I will get you a potion.”
“No, the pains better if I don't move. I woke up and saw potion bottles. I was confused. The pain made me remember. Is it really over?” she asked.
“Yes, Hermione. It's over,” Severus assured her.
“Is he dead?”
“No. The International Magical Authorities, have him.”
“I want him dead,” Hermione whispered. “It's not safe. He's evil.”
“I am going to get you a potion for the pain,” Severus said.
-----
Severus gave Hermione a phial. “You don't need to be this brave.”
“I'm not being brave. I don't want to sleep anymore.”
“It's mild, you probably won't sleep.”
Hermione relaxed visibly after taking the potion. “Severus, hold me?” she asked.
Severus gently settled behind her on the bed. “Am I hurting you?” he asked.
“No. It's better with you here.”
“If you feel well enough, Remus wants to see you before he leaves.”
“Remus is here?”
“He and Shacklebolt found me yesterday. If it hadn't been for them, I wouldn't have known.”
“But, how...”
“I'll tell you what I know.”
-----
“The most difficult part, was locating us. We were extremely well hidden,” Severus explained.
“He found us,” Hermione interrupted.
“Shacklebolt theorises that he used an ancient dark spell. He's become very powerful. He's murdered many innocent people.”
“Who?” Hermione asked.
Severus held her as he told her of her friends and teachers that had been killed. She went from tears to rage over Hagrid's death. “Is that all?” she asked, when he had finished.
“Yes, Hermione.”
“I feel terrible for Bellatrix. To endure that, and not be believed...” she said.
“It is over now, Hermione,” Severus said, pulling her closer.
-----
Hermione was asleep when Remus arrived. “How's Hermione?” he asked.
“Sleeping, but, she wants to see you,” Severus replied.
“I have time. Let her sleep if you can stand my company.”
“She knows,” Severus said, setting cups of coffee down with such force they shattered. He cursed.
“How did she react?”
“She was too calm.” Severus began to pace. “I shouldn't have told her. I should have been here. I should have protected her. Do you know what that monster did to her?”
“No,” Remus said. “But, I know what he did to Tonks. She and Hermione are both survivors.
-----
“Severus,” Remus began tentatively, “I'd never presume to know how you feel.”
“You can not possibly know!” Severus snapped.
“No?” Remus said challengingly. “He attacked Tonks in the basement of the Ministry. She's alive because of a lost visitor. I do know how you feel. I know what it's like to see the woman you love suffering physically and emotionally. I still curse myself for not protecting her. She told me she's glad I wasn't there. That I would be dead, and she'd be alone. I've been with Tonks as she heals. She has needed me. Hermione will need you.”
-----
Severus regarded Lupin with a completely neutral expression. “Are you finished?” he asked.
Remus noticed the lack of venom in his voice. “Yes.”
A cry came from the bedroom.
Severus was at Hermione's side in an instant. She was thrashing and crying out.
“Hermione,” Severus spoke firmly and clearly, “wake up. It's only a dream.”
Hermione woke with a start. “A dream? It was... He was back. Severus, hold me,” she implored.
Severus took her gently in his arms.
She cried out in pain.
“I am hurting you.”
“I don't care, Severus. Hold me, please. I feel safe with you.”
-----
They noticed Remus standing repectfully in the doorway.
“Remus, come in,” Hermione said.
“I don't want to intrude.”
“Don't be foolish, Remus, I've missed you.”
“I've missed you both,” Remus replied, coming into the room.
Hermione reached for his hand. “Remus, thank you seems insignificant. I know you helped save me. One of three,” she joked feebly. “I guess I owe you one third of a life debt.”
“Hermione, I wish I had arrived sooner. Hermione, I am so sorry.”
“Sorry, Remus? I was certain Severus and I would be tortured and killed, What is there to be sorry for?”
-----
“It was Severus who -”
Severus cut across Remus. “Tell Hermione about your child!”
“Tonks had a baby?” Hermione questioned.
“Jeremy's adopted. We -” Remus began.
A knock interrupted him.
“Whould you like me to go -“ Remus asked.
“Yes,“ Severus responded.
Kingsley cleared his throat from the bedroom doorway, “Hermione can I borrow him?” His tone was casual, but, Severus knew it was a facade.
“What?” Severus demanded in a whisper, once they were in the kitchen.
“They let him escape,” Kingsley spat furiously.
“How?” Severus hissed.
Remus looked shocked. “She was right. This is a war without end.”
“Who?”
“Sybil Trelawney.”
----------------------------------
----------------------------------
1
Severus glanced toward the bedroom. "Keep your voices down, Hermione will hear."
"Severus, she'll have to be told," Kingsley began, "You both need to return with me. I need to oversee your security. I don't know if the American's or the International Authorities let him escape. Their incompetence is abhorrent. They had him and -"
"Shacklebolt," Severus snarled in a whisper, "do not presume to tell me -"
"Severus," Hermione called, "what's wrong?"
"Nothing," he said, going to her, "we're going back, now."
"Why now?"
"Hermione," he said, sitting with her, "he's escaped."
"It's never going to be over."
----------------------------------
2
"Hermione, look at me," Severus said firmly.
Hermione drew a shaky breath and focused on his dark eyes. Severus held her chin firmly. "Everything's different now. He's wanted in several countries. He has shown how evil he is. He's not a Saviour or a hero anymore. He will be caught, Hermione," Severus said with a confidence he didn't feel. "I will never let him hurt you again. We are going somewhere safe. We no longer have to hide. He's the one running now."
"Here was supposed to be safe," Hermione said. Then she drew strength from Severus's eyes and asked, "Where are we going?"
----------------------------------
3
"I don't know, yet. I shall go find out from Shacklebolt. I thought you should be told what was happening, first." Severus fought to keep his voice calm. He despised not being the one in charge of Hermione's safety. These decisions should be his.
Hermione noticed the edge in his voice, and asked, "What's wrong?"
"Nothing."
"There is; you don't like letting Kingsley make decisions.
Severus looked at her. "Using Legillimency?" he asked in mock indignation.
"No," Hermione said, kissing him lightly. "I simply know the man I love, very well."
Remus coughed from the door. "You're staying with me."
----------------------------------
4
Severus and Hermione looked at Remus.
"Actually, you're staying with Tonks and me at my home. It's extremely safe," Remus assured him.
"What security measures have been put in place?" Severus demanded.
"It's already unplottable, there are complex ward surrounding the property. These are arranged in three circles around the house. The wards are also capeable of surveillance. There's an anti-Apparition charm. The floo is password operated only."
"That will do, for now," Severus said.
Kingsley came to the door. "We have to leave, now," he ordered. "I've arranged transportation for us all. We must go, now."
----------------------------------
5
The transportation was part Muggle and part magical. It was convoluted and tedious. Severus did, silently, acknowledge Shacklebolt's skill. It would be almost impossible to track them.
Hermione was exhausted and in pain when they arrived.
Tonks hugged Remus fiercely. "I've been so worried," she said, her voice thick with emotion. She noticed Hermione and Severus. She left Lupin's arms. "Hermione, you look exhausted. The guest room's the one on the left at the top of the stairs.
"Thank you, Tonks," Hermione said. She leaned into Severus as dizziness overwhelmed her. Severus picked her up and carried her upstairs.
----------------------------------
6
Severus helped Hermione to the bath. It was completely against his judgment. She was weak and exhausted. She should be resting. She had insisted that she wouldn't until she had a bath. She wouldn't listen to reason. She wouldn't settle for any type of cleansing spells or charms. Hermione stopped him at the door. "I can manage now, " she said.
"Don't be ridiculous. I'm not leaving you alone, you can barely stand up."
"Leave me alone! Go away!" She was half crying, half yelling.
"Hermione, what -"
She pushed him away and slammed the door. "GO AWAY!" she cried.
"Hermione. Let. Me. In."
----------------------------------
7
There was no sound from the bathroom. "Hermione, let me in!" Severus ordered.
"Go away. I just want a bath," was her quiet reply.
"You're weak. Let me help you."
"NO!"
"Hermione!"
Severus felt a hand on his shoulder. Tonks stood there. "Hermione it's Tonks. Can I come in?"
"Just you."
Severus looked at Tonks. She patted his shoulder. "Remus is in the kitchen. I'll stay with Hermione."
Severus sneered at her hand until she removed it.
"Go down and talk to Remus. It'll help."
"I sincerely doubt that." Severus sneered, stalking from the room.
----------------------------------
8
Severus walked into the kitchen, lost in his thoughts. He should be doing something useful. If Hermione didn't want his help, he should be out finding and slowly... painfully... killing Potter. That was a satisfying thought.
"Coffee?" Lupin interrupted his thoughts.
Severus focused on the other man, who was holding a child on his lap.
"You seem busy," he replied.
"Severus, I'm a wizard." A coffeepot poured a second cup.
Severus reluctantly sat across from him. The child looked up. Severus was startled by it's direct gaze. "Lupin is he -" Severus began.
"Severus," Tonks voice interrupted, "come up now, please."
----------------------------------
9
"What's wrong?" Severus demanded.
"Hermione needs a Healer. I'll tell Remus to floo Healer Drake."
"What's wrong?" Severus snapped. "She was seen by a Healer last night."
"They missed something," Tonks said. "Come and see."
Hermione was feverish and confused. "Severus?"
"Yes."
"Look," Tonks said, showing him a puncture wound on Hermione's left thigh. It was swollen and had raised black streaks spreading out from it.
"That wasn't there."
"I'm sure it wasn't. It happened to me a week after... I almost died. Healer Drake saved me," Tonks said.
"What is it?"
"I don't know. Healer Drake will."
Severus sat with Hermione to wait.
----------------------------------
To Be Continued...
----------------------------------
.
.
Team Name: Death Eater.
Word Count: 9x100=900
Rating: NC-17
Challenges have included: the Babylon 5, Santa Severus, Christmas Eve/Day, and Runaway challenges. This weeks fits best under the Runaway! challenge.
Disclaimer: Everything belongs to JKR.
AN: Sorry it took so long for this one. There will be more - including something about... Sybil Trelawney!
Warning: Mentions of Violence, Rape, and multiple Character Deaths.
-----
"Severus, don't sulk, you look -" Hermione began.
"Ridiculous," he snarked.
"No, dignified."
"A dignified Father Christmas?"
"Exactly. Not that 'Santa Claus'. You and Mr Brown chose well."
"I am wearing at his behest, he is our landlord and employer."
"Severus, it's only to hand gifts out." She looked down.
Severus tipped her chin up. She was crying silently.
"It's important to Mr Brown. The battered women's shelter is named for his daughter. It makes me think of..."
"I know," he said, holding her. "But, it's Christmas Eve, and Father Christmas must go and make merry." He grimaced.
"I love you, Severus."
-----
Hermione felt lost after Severus left. She tried to occupy herself by preparing a simple Christmas Eve celebration. She wished Mr Brown wasn't visiting his son. She'd been working as his attendant for five months. She and Severus were in hiding. The only safe place was in the Muggle world, living as Muggles. The adjustment had been difficult, but, they were together. That's what mattered. Severus worked in Mr Brown's rare book shop. He had come to almost enjoy the older man's company. Mr Brown was a retired Professor from Scotland. Hermione liked her life here, but, she mourned all she left behind.
-----
Hermione walked through the flat with a critical eye, straightening things. She was finally satisfied. The small tree glowed with clear lights and glass baubles. The smell of baked things wafted from the kitchen. A bottle of wine was chilling. Mr Brown had given it to them. She felt a twinge of sadness, it wasn't their traditional elf-made wine.
She just need to get her washing from downstairs. She opened the door. A scream died in her throat. He stood there. The reason they were in hiding. He shoved her back into the flat, slamming the door.
"Where is he?" he demanded. His wand pressed into her throat.
-----
Hermione stared in shock. This couldn’t be happening.
“Where is he?” he hissed, eyes slitted. “I will not ask again.”
“I don’t know. He’s working, but, I don’t know exactly where.”
“Liar!” he snarled. ”Legillimens
Hermione drew a breath as her Occlumency shield formed. She did not show her relief. She hadn’t need Occlumency for months. Severus had taught her well.
“Bitch!”
An explosion of pain pulls Hermoine from her mind.
Banging her head into the wall viciously with each word: “What trick is this?” he demanded.
“No trick,” Hermione said. “It is Occlumency,” she whispered, as she lost conciousness.
-----
”Ennervate!” he hissed, hauling Hermione up. “No one can keep me out. Certainly not a Mudblood whore!”
Hermione looked into the face of the enemy; she saw no mercy or compassion, it was so distorted by rage and insanity. It was barely human. There was no escape. She and Severus would be killed this time. “Severus taught me,” she said.
“Tell me where he is?”
“No.”
“Mudblood bitch!” He reigned blows down on her merciously.
“No,” she gasped.
“I know tortures you’ve never imagined.”
“You’ll torture and kill me regardless. I won’t tell you anything.”
-----
“How dare you speak to me like that. I will teach you proper respect Mudblood. Look at the way you’re dressed. He sneered at her Muggle clothes and tore them off. And this hovel...” He turned the tidy kitchen into a pile of rubble in seconds. “Come Mudblood he said as he dragged her into the bedroom. “Isn’t this sweet?” he said mockingly, as he saw the hand knit stockings, and the sweets on the pillows. “How romanitc. Don’t worry Mudblood, you’ll get it tonight, better than he’s given you.” He leered, running his hand roughly over her.
-----
‘Don’t react to him, that’s what he wants,’ Hermione repeated the mantra silently to herself. ‘He can hurt my body. He can”t touch my mind, my soul, or me. He can’t touch me.’ She could endure physical torture. She could separate from the pain. Her thoughts began to race. ‘I can’t stand it if he... No!’ She stopped her racing thoughts. ‘I will die this night. I will be tortured and die. When he rapes me it won’t be any different from any other torture. He will torture and kill my body. He can not touch my soul.’
-----
Hermione felt herself thrown violently. She raised her head. They were in the library.
“I should have know.” He stalked to the bookshelves. He pulled books out tearing them and tossing them aside. He pulled a worn leather one out, several photos fell from the pages.
Hermione cringed as she watched him study them.
His look darkened at the last picture. He advanced on Hermione. “Who is this?”
“She was my friend.”
“She was a whore!”
“You tortured her for days before you killed her.”
“She deserved it!”
“BASTARD!” Hermione grabbed for the photo knocking him into the fireplace.
-----
A roar of enraged pain made the walls tremble. Green sparks flew around him as he swooped down on Hermione. “You burned me!” he hissed, exposing the blistering burn on his face.”You will suffer for this.”
Hermione closed her eyes. She felt him drag her closer to the fire.
“Open you eyes,” he ordered. He held a glowing coal.
Hermione remained impassive, until she smelled her flesh burning. Her control slipped for a fraction of a moment, and she felt the pain. She began to scream.
He smiled in evil satisfaction. “She screamd too,” he whispered in Hermione’s ear.
-----
Hermione was desperate to separate from the pain. She couldn’t. It was everywhere. She was drowning in it.
“This is how it should me, Mudblood whore. You screaming and begging me to kill you.” As he spoke he lay her out on the kitchen table. “I can’t kill you yet, Mudblood. He has to be here to watch me enjoy you.” He ran his leather gloved hands cruelly over her bruised body.
“No... Please, no.”
“You don’t want to wait, Mudblood? I wouldn’t want to be rude.” He advanced on her.
“No...” Hermione’s pleading turned to screams of pain.
-----
‘Why doesn’t he just kill me?’ Hermione thought. ‘Let me die. I can’t stand this. Can’t breathe... Can’t see... Darkness... Cold...’
“Not bad, Mudblood.” Glancing down he notices how pale she is. ”Ennervate!” “No dying until he gets here.
The door bursts open revealing three identical Father Christmases.
Expelliarimus!
Incarcerous!
Stupefy!
The spells are cast almost as one.
He roars, seemingly unaffected by the spells, and charges. "There can't be three of you!"
Incarcerous!
Stupefy!
Sectumsempra!
He is down, but, still raging. Two Father Christmases hold him at wand point. The other rushes to Hermione.
-----
Severus is at Hermione's side, casting healing spells; and releasing her bonds. "Hermione, it's Severus. Wake up, you're safe. He's gone."
She doesn't respond.
"Hermione, it's Severus, open your eyes."
Hermione struggles to open her eyes. "Severus, we must be dead; but..." She winces in pain. "Hurts. Shouldn't hurt if dead."
"You are alive, Hermione."
"How? He found- "
"Quiet Hermione, you're injured. I have summoned a Healer. You must rest. I will explain everything."
"Stay with me?"
"Hermione, I will never leave you. I love you."
"I love you."
-----
Severus watched as Hermione slept. Her pallor made the bruises covering her appear more vivid.
“She'll sleep now,” Healer Dunesbludgeon said. “The potion works on pain, also.”
“She was extremely weak,” Severus snapped. “I do not think -”
“Professor Snape,” Healer Dunesbludgeon interrupted, “the Curatio Potion allows her body to heal as she sleeps. Examine it.” She handed him the phial.
Severus sniffed and swirled the contents critically. He handed it back silently, with a cursory nod.
Remus appeared at the door. “Severus, I need to talk with you.”
Severus hesitated, looking at Hermione..
“I'll stay with her,” Healer Dunesbludgeon said.
-----
Severus walked into the kitchen with Remus. He didn't notice the kitchen had been scourgified of any evidence, and repaired. “What is it, Lupin?” he snapped.
“I thought you should know what's happened.”
“Tell me.”
“The Americans have ceded custody to the International Magical Authorities.”
Severus nodded grimly. He expected this. “What will be done with him?” Severus hiss.
“He will never be free again,” Lupin assured him. “He's accused of enough,” Remus paused, “I wish Azakaban still used Dementors,” he growled.
Severus looked at him in confusion. This was unlike Lupin.
“He's killed so many... because, he enjoys it.”
-----
“Who,” Severus asked.
Remus began, his voice weary, “Ginny, and then Ron confronted him. Ron died trying to kill him. Minerva and Filius when he tried to burn Hogwarts. He killed Hagrid. He was slaughtering unicorns.”
“It's difficult to kill a giant,” Severus said.
Remus nodded grimly. “He decapitated him from behind.” Remus spoke flatly, seeming to want to end the discussion. He went on a rampage at Neville and Luna's wedding. He killed them and several guests: Cho Chang, Dean Thomas, the Creevey brothers, and the Patil twins.”
“Why was he not stopped?” Severus demanded.
Remus lunged at him.
-----
Severus stepped easily out of Remus's way. Remus was raging. Don't you think we've tried? Don't you think I've tried? He attacked my Tonks. You haven't seen him. His power grows with each atrocity he commits.
Severus was shocked. Why hadn't Kingsley told him about Tonks? “Lupin,” Severus said quietly, “I didn't know. When did he... When did she die?”
Remus looked at Severus in confusion. “Tonks survived,” Remus replied.“ Just barely. “The Dark Magic had permanent affects. She'll never work as an Auror again. She can't have children.” Remus paused, and almost smiled. “But, we've adopted a little boy.”
-----
Remus looked at Severus. “I’ve asked myself the same question. Why didn't I stop him sooner?”
Severus saw his own guilt, mirrored in Lupin’s eyes. “Why did I not stop him?” Severus asked. “Are there more victims?”
Lupin nodded wearily. ”He made Bill Weasley watch while he tortured and violated Fleur. He killed them both. He helped Lucius Malfoy escape. Lucius found him torturing Narcissa. He killed them separately. He kept Bellatrix LeStrange captive. She was important in the end. She died. Arthur and Molly Weasley's deaths were disguised as an accident. Fred and George are the only Weasleys left.
-----
“When did the idiots finally accept the truth?” Severus asked in disgust.
“It was gradual. There were too many deaths and suspicious accidents to blame on supposed renegade Death Eaters. Bellatrix was instrumental.”
“How did he capture Bella?” Severus asked in disbelief.
“I don't know details. He took her magic. She was his captive for months. He would leave her alone between torture sessions. She escaped and was found by Aurors. They didn't believe her. She was taken to St Mungo's. On Healer, a friend of Ginny's, believed her. She told us. Bellatrix died before we could speak to her.
-----
Kingsley arrived. “Remus, we have paperwork we need to finish, and, we leave tomorrow afternoon.”
Remus turned to Severus. “I would like to see Hermione before we leave, if she's well enough.”
“I'm sure she'll want to see you,” Severus replied.
***
After they left, Severus sat by the bed and watched Hermione sleep.
Hermione woke slowly. Severus was sitting in a chair. Potion bottles covered the dresser. Something was wrong. This was their Muggle flat. “Severus,” she said, reaching for him. Pain erupted within her at the movement. She remembered everything: the fear, the pain; and then, her unexpected rescue.
-----
Severus had barely closed his eyes, when he heard Hermione move. “Hermione,” he said, seeing the pain in her eyes, “you are in pain. I will get you a potion.”
“No, the pains better if I don't move. I woke up and saw potion bottles. I was confused. The pain made me remember. Is it really over?” she asked.
“Yes, Hermione. It's over,” Severus assured her.
“Is he dead?”
“No. The International Magical Authorities, have him.”
“I want him dead,” Hermione whispered. “It's not safe. He's evil.”
“I am going to get you a potion for the pain,” Severus said.
-----
Severus gave Hermione a phial. “You don't need to be this brave.”
“I'm not being brave. I don't want to sleep anymore.”
“It's mild, you probably won't sleep.”
Hermione relaxed visibly after taking the potion. “Severus, hold me?” she asked.
Severus gently settled behind her on the bed. “Am I hurting you?” he asked.
“No. It's better with you here.”
“If you feel well enough, Remus wants to see you before he leaves.”
“Remus is here?”
“He and Shacklebolt found me yesterday. If it hadn't been for them, I wouldn't have known.”
“But, how...”
“I'll tell you what I know.”
-----
“The most difficult part, was locating us. We were extremely well hidden,” Severus explained.
“He found us,” Hermione interrupted.
“Shacklebolt theorises that he used an ancient dark spell. He's become very powerful. He's murdered many innocent people.”
“Who?” Hermione asked.
Severus held her as he told her of her friends and teachers that had been killed. She went from tears to rage over Hagrid's death. “Is that all?” she asked, when he had finished.
“Yes, Hermione.”
“I feel terrible for Bellatrix. To endure that, and not be believed...” she said.
“It is over now, Hermione,” Severus said, pulling her closer.
-----
Hermione was asleep when Remus arrived. “How's Hermione?” he asked.
“Sleeping, but, she wants to see you,” Severus replied.
“I have time. Let her sleep if you can stand my company.”
“She knows,” Severus said, setting cups of coffee down with such force they shattered. He cursed.
“How did she react?”
“She was too calm.” Severus began to pace. “I shouldn't have told her. I should have been here. I should have protected her. Do you know what that monster did to her?”
“No,” Remus said. “But, I know what he did to Tonks. She and Hermione are both survivors.
-----
“Severus,” Remus began tentatively, “I'd never presume to know how you feel.”
“You can not possibly know!” Severus snapped.
“No?” Remus said challengingly. “He attacked Tonks in the basement of the Ministry. She's alive because of a lost visitor. I do know how you feel. I know what it's like to see the woman you love suffering physically and emotionally. I still curse myself for not protecting her. She told me she's glad I wasn't there. That I would be dead, and she'd be alone. I've been with Tonks as she heals. She has needed me. Hermione will need you.”
-----
Severus regarded Lupin with a completely neutral expression. “Are you finished?” he asked.
Remus noticed the lack of venom in his voice. “Yes.”
A cry came from the bedroom.
Severus was at Hermione's side in an instant. She was thrashing and crying out.
“Hermione,” Severus spoke firmly and clearly, “wake up. It's only a dream.”
Hermione woke with a start. “A dream? It was... He was back. Severus, hold me,” she implored.
Severus took her gently in his arms.
She cried out in pain.
“I am hurting you.”
“I don't care, Severus. Hold me, please. I feel safe with you.”
-----
They noticed Remus standing repectfully in the doorway.
“Remus, come in,” Hermione said.
“I don't want to intrude.”
“Don't be foolish, Remus, I've missed you.”
“I've missed you both,” Remus replied, coming into the room.
Hermione reached for his hand. “Remus, thank you seems insignificant. I know you helped save me. One of three,” she joked feebly. “I guess I owe you one third of a life debt.”
“Hermione, I wish I had arrived sooner. Hermione, I am so sorry.”
“Sorry, Remus? I was certain Severus and I would be tortured and killed, What is there to be sorry for?”
-----
“It was Severus who -”
Severus cut across Remus. “Tell Hermione about your child!”
“Tonks had a baby?” Hermione questioned.
“Jeremy's adopted. We -” Remus began.
A knock interrupted him.
“Whould you like me to go -“ Remus asked.
“Yes,“ Severus responded.
Kingsley cleared his throat from the bedroom doorway, “Hermione can I borrow him?” His tone was casual, but, Severus knew it was a facade.
“What?” Severus demanded in a whisper, once they were in the kitchen.
“They let him escape,” Kingsley spat furiously.
“How?” Severus hissed.
Remus looked shocked. “She was right. This is a war without end.”
“Who?”
“Sybil Trelawney.”
----------------------------------
----------------------------------
1
Severus glanced toward the bedroom. "Keep your voices down, Hermione will hear."
"Severus, she'll have to be told," Kingsley began, "You both need to return with me. I need to oversee your security. I don't know if the American's or the International Authorities let him escape. Their incompetence is abhorrent. They had him and -"
"Shacklebolt," Severus snarled in a whisper, "do not presume to tell me -"
"Severus," Hermione called, "what's wrong?"
"Nothing," he said, going to her, "we're going back, now."
"Why now?"
"Hermione," he said, sitting with her, "he's escaped."
"It's never going to be over."
----------------------------------
2
"Hermione, look at me," Severus said firmly.
Hermione drew a shaky breath and focused on his dark eyes. Severus held her chin firmly. "Everything's different now. He's wanted in several countries. He has shown how evil he is. He's not a Saviour or a hero anymore. He will be caught, Hermione," Severus said with a confidence he didn't feel. "I will never let him hurt you again. We are going somewhere safe. We no longer have to hide. He's the one running now."
"Here was supposed to be safe," Hermione said. Then she drew strength from Severus's eyes and asked, "Where are we going?"
----------------------------------
3
"I don't know, yet. I shall go find out from Shacklebolt. I thought you should be told what was happening, first." Severus fought to keep his voice calm. He despised not being the one in charge of Hermione's safety. These decisions should be his.
Hermione noticed the edge in his voice, and asked, "What's wrong?"
"Nothing."
"There is; you don't like letting Kingsley make decisions.
Severus looked at her. "Using Legillimency?" he asked in mock indignation.
"No," Hermione said, kissing him lightly. "I simply know the man I love, very well."
Remus coughed from the door. "You're staying with me."
----------------------------------
4
Severus and Hermione looked at Remus.
"Actually, you're staying with Tonks and me at my home. It's extremely safe," Remus assured him.
"What security measures have been put in place?" Severus demanded.
"It's already unplottable, there are complex ward surrounding the property. These are arranged in three circles around the house. The wards are also capeable of surveillance. There's an anti-Apparition charm. The floo is password operated only."
"That will do, for now," Severus said.
Kingsley came to the door. "We have to leave, now," he ordered. "I've arranged transportation for us all. We must go, now."
----------------------------------
5
The transportation was part Muggle and part magical. It was convoluted and tedious. Severus did, silently, acknowledge Shacklebolt's skill. It would be almost impossible to track them.
Hermione was exhausted and in pain when they arrived.
Tonks hugged Remus fiercely. "I've been so worried," she said, her voice thick with emotion. She noticed Hermione and Severus. She left Lupin's arms. "Hermione, you look exhausted. The guest room's the one on the left at the top of the stairs.
"Thank you, Tonks," Hermione said. She leaned into Severus as dizziness overwhelmed her. Severus picked her up and carried her upstairs.
----------------------------------
6
Severus helped Hermione to the bath. It was completely against his judgment. She was weak and exhausted. She should be resting. She had insisted that she wouldn't until she had a bath. She wouldn't listen to reason. She wouldn't settle for any type of cleansing spells or charms. Hermione stopped him at the door. "I can manage now, " she said.
"Don't be ridiculous. I'm not leaving you alone, you can barely stand up."
"Leave me alone! Go away!" She was half crying, half yelling.
"Hermione, what -"
She pushed him away and slammed the door. "GO AWAY!" she cried.
"Hermione. Let. Me. In."
----------------------------------
7
There was no sound from the bathroom. "Hermione, let me in!" Severus ordered.
"Go away. I just want a bath," was her quiet reply.
"You're weak. Let me help you."
"NO!"
"Hermione!"
Severus felt a hand on his shoulder. Tonks stood there. "Hermione it's Tonks. Can I come in?"
"Just you."
Severus looked at Tonks. She patted his shoulder. "Remus is in the kitchen. I'll stay with Hermione."
Severus sneered at her hand until she removed it.
"Go down and talk to Remus. It'll help."
"I sincerely doubt that." Severus sneered, stalking from the room.
----------------------------------
8
Severus walked into the kitchen, lost in his thoughts. He should be doing something useful. If Hermione didn't want his help, he should be out finding and slowly... painfully... killing Potter. That was a satisfying thought.
"Coffee?" Lupin interrupted his thoughts.
Severus focused on the other man, who was holding a child on his lap.
"You seem busy," he replied.
"Severus, I'm a wizard." A coffeepot poured a second cup.
Severus reluctantly sat across from him. The child looked up. Severus was startled by it's direct gaze. "Lupin is he -" Severus began.
"Severus," Tonks voice interrupted, "come up now, please."
----------------------------------
9
"What's wrong?" Severus demanded.
"Hermione needs a Healer. I'll tell Remus to floo Healer Drake."
"What's wrong?" Severus snapped. "She was seen by a Healer last night."
"They missed something," Tonks said. "Come and see."
Hermione was feverish and confused. "Severus?"
"Yes."
"Look," Tonks said, showing him a puncture wound on Hermione's left thigh. It was swollen and had raised black streaks spreading out from it.
"That wasn't there."
"I'm sure it wasn't. It happened to me a week after... I almost died. Healer Drake saved me," Tonks said.
"What is it?"
"I don't know. Healer Drake will."
Severus sat with Hermione to wait.
----------------------------------
To Be Continued...
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