7-11

Chapter 7

Heres hoping you can actually read it this time!

Healers And News

Severus didn't even spare a glance around, normally he would, but these were different and difficult circumstances. He was grateful that the Peacocks weren't out and wandering, he had enough on his mind without avoiding or trampling over them too. Malfoy manor was an impressive sight indeed, it was obvious for all to see they liked to show and boast how much wealth they had. It's probably where Lucius had gotten his annoying habit of feeling superior because he had a lot of money. Truth be told, Lucius probably wasn't the wealthiest pureblood out there, maybe on the British Isles perhaps. One would never know most witches and wizards didn't boast about their money, it was quite dangerous to do. It's what had lead Lucius' father to being recruited, and inevitably his son. It was a good thing Lucius had a shrewd mind and good instincts when he bought percentages of businesses and of course did investments. The investments and businesses nearly always paid off. Severus shook off his thoughts, he shouldn't be thinking about Lucius and his shrewd mind when Harry was extremely hurt.

"Lady Narcissa someone is at the door," said Dobby.

"Who is it?" she asked looking up curiously, she had been watching her son use his toy broomstick. Despite the fact it couldn't go further than three inches off the ground, she still worried about him rather needlessly. Soft padding lined the walls and floors, keeping him safe from harm. She still kept an eye on him despite looking at her husband's house elf getting rather impatient.

"Master Snape," replied Dobby bowing low, waiting on his next order.

"Open the door and let him in at once," demanded Narcissa, she was very fond of Severus. He had a wicked sense of humour. He wasn't afraid to stand up to Lucius, which made her like him more. Not many people stood up to her husband, and she realized that Severus was Lucius' only true friend. The others were just scared brown nosers trying to make their way into Lucius good graces. It's why she had made Severus Draco's godfather; unfortunately Draco didn't have a godmother. Narcissa didn't have any female friends she could trust with her son's life.

"Yes my lady," said Dobby before he disappeared once more, reappearing at the big heavy door that guarded Malfoy Manor. Huge oak doors, heavy and warded from all spells that could see someone entering their home. Such as 'Alohamora' and the blasting spells that would rip the doors from its hinges. Dobby clicked his fingers and the doors opened, just as Dobby saw Severus coming up the steps quite quickly. In his arms he had a small figure of a child, Dobby watched him in alarm. His curiosity, still there despite his training.

"Get Lucius now," said Severus once he spotted Dobby.

"Master Malfoy is not home Master Snape," said Dobby, Master Malfoy was his Master, but he called Severus Master in honour of his title. He was the youngest Potions Master in Britain and the title deserved respect. He was widely respected in the potion community, and Dobby had many fellow friends and family who served people in the community.

"Narcissa then," said Severus, barely able to stop himself snarling at the house elf, he knew it wasn't the elves fault. In fact if it was Narcissa in that might make things go much better.

Dobby disappeared without saying anything further, not wanting to lollygag, it was evident from Master Snape's face this was important. He knew because Severus didn't normally glare at him in such a way. Perhaps having something to do with the child in his arms. "Master Severus needs you in the entrance hall right away Lady Narcissa," said Dobby as soon as he appeared in Draco's play room.

Narcissa sat up straighter, Severus had never, in all her years of knowing him needed her help. "Stay with Draco." said Narcissa, as she gracefully, yet hurriedly made her way out of the room. With speed and efficiency, that she hadn't used since the Dark Lord's defeat, she was down the stairs. She could remember running to her husbands shaking form every time he came back from a meeting. Sometimes Severus had to actually apparate him back, because he was unconscious. As she neared him, intending on hugging him she noticed the bundle in his arms. She was very confused, but she didn't demand answered she just asked Severus one question. She owed him a lot, and if she could repay it then she would.

People thought Slytherin's were evil, but what they seem to do is forget what the Sorting Hat says each year. Slytherin is where you will find your true friends, although admittedly during the dark times you couldn't tell. Between befriending you to inevitably join the dark side, to befriending you to know where your alliance lay. All the houses just liked to blame Slytherin for being evil, but it just wasn't true. The same was happening with Drumstrang, just because Gellert Grindelwald had been expelled from there and became a 'Dark Lord' it was ridiculous if they were going to go against everything because of one person then nothing and no-one was innocent anymore.

"What do you need?" asked Narcissa, her hand wiping the hair away from the child's face. She froze on the spot, he was injured, very badly so but why bring him here? Neither she nor Lucius were healers.

"Narcissa I need you to call your healer," said Severus swallowing thickly, each second they delayed could cost them heavily. "I shall pay for it myself if need be." he said with more force.

"Severus why have you not gone to St. Mungo's?" asked Narcissa walking over to the fireplace they had at the entrance hall of their home. The study held a fire, but it was just that, a fire. They only had one available Floo network connection and it was this one. They kept people away from the study, library and their rooms.

"It's Harry bloody Potter now if you won't help me I'll leave." snapped Severus his patience wearing thin he was exhausted. It was time for bed and here he was with his arms fill of Harry Potter! He just didn't know what on earth he could do.

"Ah, of course I will Severus," said Narcissa refraining from rolling her eyes in exasperation at her good friend. He had always had a problem with his temper, especially when teaching eleven year olds how to brew Potions. She threw the powder into the fire and shouted the name of her family's healer.

"Yes Narcissa is everything okay? Has Draco had some bad side affects?" asked Joseph Benoit. His accent was noticeable to Severus, he was Spanish? Why would they have a Spanish healer? Despite his accent he spoke fluently in English not brokenly like most foreign people did.

"Everything is fine with my family, but I need your services immediately," said Narcissa removing her head from the fireplace, she knew without hearing the chime that Joseph would be through soon.

"Spanish?" asked Severus wryly, he didn't know why he was so surprised.

"His father is English Severus, he was brought up by his mother, when he found out he went to claim his son, and ensure that he attended the best school, Hogwarts. He's been here since he was eleven years old." replied Narcissa slightly defensively.

"He has sworn an oath to keep silent hasn't he?" said Severus wanting confirmation from his friend.

"He has sworn an unbreakable vow Severus, does that satisfy you?" asked Narcissa knowing what was bothering him. She felt it too; Severus Snape was in her entrance hall with Harry Potter of all people. It dawned on her belatedly, that Harry was the same age as her son, yet the child in his arms looked two not five. Her face pale beyond anything, this was evidently not going to be an easy fix.

"It does," said Severus fully relaxing for the first time, just then someone stepped through the Floo network. He looked to be twenty eight years old, professional, seriously yet he had a small cheeky face that made him look younger.

"Dobby?" called Narcissa.

"Yes Lady Narcissa?" asked Dobby appearing out of nowhere.

"Where is Draco?" asked Narcissa.

"He is sleeping, I put him to bed," said Dobby, unable to finish as Narcissa spoke over him again.

"Go and tell Lucius his presence is required, tell him Severus is here also if it's needed. I want him back as soon as it's possible for him to leave." said Narcissa; she knew he was meeting with Minister Fudge. Thankfully house elves could appear silently, just as they could make themselves invisible to everyone around them. Lucius would be able to feel him though, since Dobby was bound to him.

Dobby disappeared once again, realizing that it was going to be a very long night. Lucius hated being interrupted, at least by him anyway. Now that he knew who the child was, he realized how important it was. Harry Potter was injured; it was obvious to him that Severus Snape had found him. Lucius was going to get the shock of his life when he got home that's for sure.

"Come," said Narcissa, her delicate hands grabbing at her robes as she ran up the stairs, followed closely behind by Severus and Joseph. She took them into the only other room that had an en-suite. It was the guest room Severus used upon occasions when he stayed over, mostly on Draco's birthdays.

"I need you to do a full scan," said Severus bluntly, placing his bundle on the bed, he looked so very small in the four poster king size bed. He moved to the side to let the healer work, but stayed within sight of both of them. He trusted no one with Harry's safety, and with good reason.

Joseph immediately went over, and started the long complicated charm that would show absolutely everything. It took a lot of magic to do the spell, more if the person was seriously injured. Which it came apparent that this child was, and finally understood why he'd be called. Parchment came out of the end as soon as he finished the chant, far too long for a little child.

He took a look at it and his eyes widened, this was Harry Potter! What on earth had happened to cause such injuries? There was no mistaken it, this was abuse the results of very bad abuse. He was severely malnourished; nearly every bone in his body had been broken at one point or another. It was the worst case of abuse he'd ever come across. He was almost unsure of where to start! It was that bad. He grabbed his potions bag, grateful he always carried it around with him.

"You will use my potions, they are fresh." said Severus not wanting inferior potions to be used on Harry.

"Very well, I need a level ten internal injuries potion undiluted, undiluted junior Skele-grow." said Joseph.

Severus reached in for his own potions bag, which was then un-shrunk and ten times bigger than the healers. His deft fingers brought out the potions the healer required. Passing them over without saying anything, the healer immediately conjured up a small measuring cup. He measured out how much he could give to the child. With great difficulty he managed to coax the unconscious boy into swallowing it. He immediately did the same with the Skele-grow. He was able to give the child more of that since it was for junior children not adults. He did this as his mind whirled dangerously; there was something on that paper that turned his stomach. He would have to discuss it with them, and he hoped to get an answer.

"Does anyone know what happened that Halloween night? After the attack?" asked Joseph, as he cast a spell that would reduce the swelling on the boy's face. Another that would heal the cut, another that would stop infection. He was about to ask for a salve but Severus got there first. Handing it to him, he unscrewed it and carefully spread it across his face.

"Why?" demanded Severus his lip curling in repugnance?

"Well he's been living with Muggles since it happened, otherwise they wouldn't have gotten away with this plus the fact there's been no spells cast on him to imply Wizards or Witches had done this." said Joseph.

Severus smirked slightly well the healer was smart he'd give him that much. "Yes he has, with his family, maternal aunt and uncle." his face darkened just saying it. He wanted to go back and cause them all a world of pain. Once he had Harry safe perhaps that's what he would do.

"Nobody was left alone with the child?" asked Joseph.

"He was alone with Sirius Black before Hagrid retrieved him on orders of Dumbledore. As far as I am aware he was delivered straight to his family. Dumbledore and Hagrid was back for the celebration not long after." said Severus emotionlessly, he had been forced to attend it had been the longest and hardest night of his life.

"Someone cast a powerful binding block on his magic, which is stopping him from accessing seventy five percent of his magic." said Joseph, "The rest has been keeping him alive since he was a baby." he was furious with whoever did it, binding blocks were illegal, and for good reason.

"Seventy five percent?" gaped Narcissa looking stunned, she held onto the wall as though she was about to fall over with the news and it wasn't even her child. She put the dots together, there would have only been one wizard powerful enough to bind that much magic. She looked at Severus and saw he too had come to the same conclusion. He looked ready to murder someone, and she almost wanted to let him.

"There is also something else on this I do not understand, a foreign entity is in Mr. Potter, its dark and evil…I do not know if it's a by product of the killing curse or some other failed spell?" said Joseph.

"Let me see," said Severus imperiously waiting on the parchment, he grabbed it and began reading; it was at the top right next to the killing curse. A frown marred Severus' forehead, whatever it was it definitely shouldn't be there. "Is there a way to find out?" he asked finally handing the paper back.

"A ritual, will tell you exactly what it is where it came from and how to get rid of it, if that is possible." said Joseph. The rune healing ritual, Harry would need to be in full prefect health for it. Until then they would just have to heal him as best they were able.

"We shall do it when we can, until then we must wait." said Severus. "Is there a specific potion he's going to need long term?" he already knew the answer to that. He wasn't a healer though so he awaited Joseph's expertise.

"Narcissa!" called Lucius his voice sounding frantic with worry.

"Excuse me," said Narcissa quickly leaving the room to go to her husband's side.

"He will need a nutrient potion for at least a year perhaps more," said Joseph, "He will need frequent small meals, his stomach will not be able to handle much at all. The damage it quiet extensive. He's much too small height wise for a five year old, so I'd say he'd need level ten potions to help with that. He will need a potion to help with the pain; nearly every bone is healing itself."

"How many doses of the internal injury potion will he need?" asked Severus, watching the healer look at his watch before taking Severus' potion case and feed him a blood replenishing potion. Unfortunately Harry would need the potions to be spaced out to avoid an overdose. He was so small that it didn't surprise Severus at all. They didn't usually have to worry about that with adults.

Joseph pulled out a clipboard and parchment, before he tapped it and writing appeared on the paper. "He will need them for three days; his body isn't functioning to its full capacity. It's important that he doesn't catch any more infections or illnesses or his body will completely shut down." Joseph also tapped it again; a potion for his eyesight was added to the list. Since Severus insisted on brewing them himself they needed to be put on the list. His eyesight was rather bad, no doubt not helped by the concussions he'd had.

"So he would not have made it to Hogwarts had I not intervened?" stated Severus.

"No Severus, I doubt very much he would have survived the rest of the week, he already had a bad fever and the starting of an infection." said Joseph, pulling out yet another potion to prevent infection and spelling it into his stomach. As an afterthought he pulled a fever reducer and did the same thing. Everything he was doing was being recorded on the parchment on the clipboard.

"Severus," said Lucius nodding his head, his mercury eyes staring at Harry as if he couldn't believe his eyes. This little boy had been the downfall of the darkest and most evil lord in the world - yet he himself lay almost dead by the hands of Muggles. This did nothing but reinforce the hatred Lucius had of them. Narcissa had filled him in on the way up, and he had heard the healer's last statement.

"Lucius," said Severus copying Lucius' movements.

"This is the potions and times he will need them, if you like I can stay," said Joseph. Here he was mostly speaking to Severus, but everything that needed done was already seen too. Everything else could be done with someone not trained as a healer or Medi-Wizard. They would only be following his instructions that needed done precisely. "I will keep my Floo open in case of emergencies. If not then I shall be back tomorrow to check up on him at seven A.M."

"Thank you Joseph." said Lucius kindly, and it was kind for him. Of course Joseph was one he could say he trusted, especially with his family. If they or he was ever sick Joseph always came he didn't trust those at St. Mungo's. He only wanted the best help, and Joseph was the best in his field.

"No problem," said Joseph giving one last look to the sick child he was escorted by Narcissa to the Floo network and he promptly disappeared after speaking to her for a few seconds.

"Who did this?" asked Lucius his face a mask of fury. The thought of anyone hurting a Wizarding child riled him up.

"His family, the Dursley's." said Severus his eyes darkening with fury, he was almost tempted to put his Death Eater garb on and show them just what wizards were capable of. He could see by the disgust and anger on Lucius' face his thoughts were similar.

"They will rue the day they dared harm one of our own." said Lucius blankly, his mind conjuring up ways to deal with them.

"Legally Lucius, that will hurt them worse, trust me." said Severus, "They think themselves better than those around them." he had been so shocked by her words about drowning Harry he'd been rooted to the spot before he's slapped her for her malicious words. It had done nothing to stop his anger; in fact it was probably ten times worse.

"How is he?" asked Lucius eventually, sitting down on the bed, staring at the five year old, so much smaller than his own son. He carefully pulled the covers over him, keeping him warm. He touched his forehead reverently; he owed this small child more than he could ever repay him. Because of this child his son grew up without darkness, he shuddered at the thought of the Dark Lord in his home, touching his son. Oh no, he would pay for the healer, and he'd pay for everything Harry needed. After all the things he'd done in his life, it would be a small repayment.

"Dumbledore bound seventy five percent of his magic," said Severus his mind still unable to process that one.

"Did he unlock it?" asked Lucius immediately, his face paler than normal.

"No, it may cause more harm than good right now," said Severus angrily.

"You'd think it would help heal him faster," said Lucius thoughtfully.

"He's five," said Severus as if it explained everything, which strangely enough it did.

"Severus, Joseph suggested giving him half a mild sleeping potion so he doesn't wake up." said Narcissa, "He doesn't want Harry in any more pain than he needs to be."

Severus immediately poured out the required amount before helping the small five year old drink it. He would have to brew nutrition potions and of course the one to help Harry with his height. He found himself gently stroking the child's face, he had thought often of Harry since that night. None of it good, he felt extremely guilty about it. He'd assumed Harry was growing up knowing his birthright, spoiled because he survived something he shouldn't have. Something his mother hadn't. He couldn't have been further from the truth; he was nothing like his father except in looks.

"Come let him rest, I shall have Dobby watch him." said Lucius, Severus looked frankly exhausted.

"I'll stay." said Severus immediately; he wasn't going to leave the child's side. "Thank you for helping me."

"It's the least I can do for him Severus," said Lucius honestly, and they all felt the same regarding the child. If it wasn't for him, and perhaps his mother, the Dark Lord would have won.

"If you need anything Dobby will fetch us." said Narcissa kindly, placing a comforting hand on Severus' shoulder. No doubt Severus was feeling really bad right now, and the past he tried to keep in the past was coming back to haunt him. Lily had always been a weakness of Severus'. It was a good job they really cared about him, they knew his weaknesses and they could have exploited them or told the Dark Lord.

Severus merely nodded never taking his eyes from Harry, even when the lights dimmed as Lucius and Narcissa left. Severus continued to watch Harry, until his own body gave up the battle to remain awake.

Chapter 8

Talking

Lucius groaned as he finally sat up in his luxurious king size four poster bed, he just couldn't sleep. He looked over at his wife; she on the other hand was sleeping very peacefully. Grabbing his silver robe he put it on over his pyjamas and left the room. He went straight to his office, and grabbed two tumblers and filled them. Once that was done he headed back towards the guest room, where Harry Potter was currently staying. He was still trying to wrap his mind around it, who would have thought he'd have Harry Potter, of all people staying in his manor. He opened the door and observed that Severus was still awake as he'd predicted. When Severus was troubled he couldn't sleep, that was how well Lucius knew his only true friend. Who would have thought it? He certainly hadn't, in fact he had felt sorry for the first year. He had helped him as best as he could, without the black haired child knowing about it. To this day he still didn't know why, it had not been beneficial to him. He couldn't have been more surprised when Severus was initiated; he knew Severus was a half blood. It was only later that he'd discovered the Dark Lord's true blood status.

"Lucius," said Severus without even turning around, "I'm surprised you aren't asleep."

"Here," said Lucius handing him a glass of rare delicious bourbon he'd begun to love, courtesy of his father. Severus wasn't a man who cared what he drank, and so he accepted the drink. To be truthful he could use it right now, his mind was spinning as the ramifications of his actions built up in his mind.

Lucius pulled up a chair and sat down next to his friend, knowing how he felt, trapped, helpless, and overwhelmed. "There was nothing you could have done." Lucius said his mercury eyes solemn.

"For the last four years, when I thought of him I sneered and wrongfully assumed he was being spoiled. Not that I thought of him often, but still…I was wrong." said Severus bitterly, his bitterness was making his stomach rebel horrendously. Considering Severus always felt bitter, it was a surprise for it to make to make him physically sick.

"We all did, I mean he survived something others didn't, who wouldn't have spoiled him?" asked Lucius quietly.

"His family apparently," said Severus, his anger was steadily burning; he wanted to return to Cokeworth and kill Petunia. Then show Dudley Dursley what it was like to be bullied and stop a child turning out to be just like his bitter twisted mother.

"Leave them to me," said Lucius a vindictive grin spreading across his face. If there was one thing Lucius knew and it was how to destroy people, blackmail them, and threaten them. He wasn't by any means a good man, and he didn't pretend to be.

"I have no doubt your revenge would be better than anything I dole out." said Severus wryly, staring at the sleeping child unsure of what to do.

"That's because you'd just kill them," snorted Lucius in amusement, which was true, Severus had no patience whatsoever. Why he'd become a teacher he didn't know, then again that wasn't true. He knew why, Dumbledore had basically forced him into it with Unbreakable vows. Nobody could get out of them, not without loosing their life. It was the worst binding spell in their world; one could argue that loosing your magic was worse.

"True," smirked Severus sadistically, it's what he wanted to do right now. "What the hell am I supposed to do Lucius?" he finished his smirk gone replaced by worry. He had taken Harry but that's as far as his thinking had gone. He'd expected to drop an abused kid of at St. Mungo's now he was the caretaker of Harry Potter.

"That my friend is up to you," said Lucius quietly as he sipped his bourbon. "Is there anyone you could trust to bring him up? I could give them money it's the least I can do."

"You think someone could take Harry Potter in and keep quiet about it?" asked Severus dryly, staring at Lucius as if he'd lost his marbles.

"Perhaps with oaths we could?" suggested Lucius conceding Severus' point.

"You think they could raise him properly? Without fawning all over him? He'd come to Hogwarts worse than his blasted father." stated Severus shaking his head adamantly, it wasn't a road he wanted to travel down.

"Better than the alternative," said Lucius, if Severus hadn't noticed the Wizarding world would have been hit with the news that Harry Potter was dead.

"There must be another way," growled Severus. "Dumbledore cannot know, I never thought I'd be saying that." Lucius had always said it, but right now though for the first time Severus himself believed it too.

"Binding a child's magic what was he thinking? Especially Harry Potters!" he asked exasperated, he knew the child's future was going to be long and hard. It was obvious the Dark Lord wasn't gone otherwise Dumbledore wouldn't have forced him to stay or give another vow. Although it wasn't hard for him to figure it out himself, after all the Dark Mark was still there. Faded to the point of almost disappearing but still there.

"He's a manipulative old fool; I wouldn't be surprised if he had Potter's life already mapped out. The worst of it, he would succeed in moulding him to his exact specifications." said Lucius sneering in disgust at the thought of Albus Dumbledore.

"Would have," said Severus, now that he knew he wasn't going to let Lily's son suffer. Especially not for some god forsaken prophecy, that was only just one outcome of all possible futures. He believed that the future could go all manner of says, you just had to know what road to travel down. For all he knew Harry had already played his part, he would do what he could to keep the child safe as he'd promised Lily at her grave and the vow for Dumbledore.

"You do know the only person he could be safe with…is yourself? Most of the Wizarding world adores Dumbledore, if they don't good chance they are Death Eaters." said Lucius, much like himself. He wasn't as sadistic as many of them, and didn't believe in the needless killings but he'd do anything to keep his family safe.

Severus snorted, "You think I could raise a kid?" his voice thick with incredulity.

"You are good with Draco," said Lucius pointing out the obvious.

"Yes, I am, but you know what? I can hand him right back over. I wouldn't be able to do that with him. I would be responsible for every aspect of his life." said Severus, it's a terrifying prospect. One he didn't want to dwell on, but now Lucius had said it…it was getting under his skin. It was impossible really? What did he know about raising a child? He'd never wanted one; it wasn't something he'd ever dwelled on. He'd dreamed on having one with Lily, but he'd never consciously thought it. Someone couldn't help what they dreamed.

"It's easier than it seems, but you know what Severus? The rewards far outweigh the negative." said Lucius; it would give Severus a reason to live other than to destroy the Dark Lord for Lily. In fact now that he thought about it, he realized he rather liked the idea. All Severus did was teach students, read books, brew potions. Before all this bad stuff had happened he'd been inventing his own potions, own spells and actually living. Maybe if Severus did have Harry he might go back to actually living. Severus could be a great man, not everyone had the smarts to create potions and spells. It was as if the Dark Lord had sucked the life out of Severus. Severus had always felt things deeply; it didn't surprise him that everything he'd done was weighing down heavily upon him.

"He's Potters son, there's no guarantee I'd look after him properly," said Severus seriously, he wasn't at all sure if he'd try and get revenge on a dead man though him.

"You knew he was Potter's son when you brought him here, that was before you knew what Dumbledore had done." said Lucius, rolling his eyes at his stubborn friend. He placed his empty tumbler on the floor and settled back the tiredness was finally kicking in.

"Dumbledore placed him there, he had to have known how he'd be treated." said Severus tiredly. "He needed a healer, I didn't think beyond that, I do know that apparently I cannot trust anyone with him." not even Lucius, he'd give Harry up in a second to protect his family, they both knew it.

"Which means you need to raise him," said Lucius adamantly, it would help ensure he wouldn't do anything to Harry as well no matter what happened in the future. No matter what he would never cross Severus. Especially never someone Severus cared about, because he'd probably creatively torture him then kill him friend or not. He didn't have any plans right now, but he didn't know what the future held. Severus was very vindictive that way, forward about it not like him.

Severus just gazed doubtfully at the small form on the bed, he wasn't father material. His own father had been a drunken layabout, who'd been extremely abusive. That wasn't exactly a good example. He'd seen Lucius with Draco, it was the only scope of experience he had. He couldn't see himself being like him, he wasn't capable of that.

Of course he underestimated his capacity to love.

"Get some sleep Severus, we are going to need it." said Lucius standing up. He called Dobby to remove the glasses before heading back to his own bedroom, Narcissa was still asleep. He slid in and thankfully fell asleep quite quickly, it was well after three AM and his son would be up in four hours. Not only that but the healer would be back, and hopefully there will be an improvement on Harry's condition.

"Severus? Severus wake up!" said Narcissa shaking his shoulder.

Severus jumped awake, already going for his wand before he realized he was safe. He groaned when the pains in his neck made themselves known. He could smell the breakfast Narcissa had brought to him. More importantly, coffee, he needed it, he was quite frankly exhausted. He'd only slept a few hours that is if he was lucky.

"Joseph will be here in five minutes," said Narcissa, fully dressed putting the breakfast down for Severus to eat. Everyone else had already eaten, Severus hadn't come down so she'd put some food together for him.

"Alright," said Severus gratefully drinking the hot brew hoping it would wake him up properly. He needed all his wits around him, especially when the healer began talking. He needed to know how to take care of Harry properly. "Send him up when he arrives."

"Sure," said Narcissa, before she turned and left him to eat.

Severus looked over at the child as he ate his breakfast, if he wasn't mistaken the child looked a little less pale than he had yesterday. He seemed to have a bit more colour to his face. That could only be a good thing, but then again looks could be deceiving. He would know how Harry was soon enough. Speak of the devil, thought Severus, as a knock sounded the door.

"Come in," said Severus without his normal teacher snarl or sneer.

"Severus, how are you?" asked Joseph regarding Severus shrewdly, he was far too skinny and pale. He looked as though he needed a good night sleep as well.

"I'm good," said Severus curtly, he wasn't the sick or dying one in the room after all.

"Did he get the potions at the right time?" asked Joseph picking the clipboard up to find he had. He nodded his head in satisfaction, and performed a diagnostic spell on him to see what needed done.

"Of course," said Severus sounding highly insulted.

"He is healing extraordinary well, I wouldn't be surprised if he's a natural healer…only his ability trying to heal himself rather than others." said Joseph. "Considering his magic is bound…he may well be the best we've ever seen." his awe was evident. It seemed he was the only one unimpressed by Harry Potter and his abilities. It just strengthened his belief that he had to take care of Harry. He couldn't let someone else get him and spoil him, turn him into a Gryffindor.

"Should he choose to pursue a career with it," said Severus bluntly bringing the healers attention back to now.

"Oh of course," said Joseph, "He won't need any more blood replenishing potions, he needs at least three more doses of junior skele-grow. At least two more for internal injuries. The nutrition potions will be needed until he's fully recovered and at the same height and weight as other children. No doubt he will need stomach soothing and sealing potions, to stop him being sick. He's probably never had anything substantial and the first time he does, I guarantee his stomach will rebel quite viciously."

"So he is recovering then?" asked Severus.

"Yes, very well in fact." said Joseph, "Other than the damage to his magical core because of the block."

"Damage?" asked Severus sitting up straighter, glaring at the healer demanding an explanation. Would it affect Harry's magic later in life? Was it permanent, he was surprised by the extent of the worry he felt for the child. It wasn't because of the Dark Lord, or the part Harry was 'supposed' to play in it. No it was for the child himself.

"Don't worry; once his magic is released it will immediately begin repairing its core. The longer you wait the more damaging it is. That's why binding was made illegal in the first place. That and the fact magic is a gift and should never be bound in the first place. The more magic that's bound the more dangerous it is. Eventually it explodes, the core burns out and so does the Witch or Wizard the shock kills them. Whether they know they have magic or not it still affects them. I've always been interested in them, after a case came my way." said Joseph.

"Well that's good to know," said Severus relief sweeping over him.

"Well I shall take my leave, you wont need me again but Narcissa knows how to find me should you need anything else." said Joseph, the money was no doubt already in his account for his services.

"Thank you," said Severus he did appreciate everything the man had done.

"No thanks necessary I only did what needed done, as I would for anyone." said Joseph. First do no harm, the motto that both the Wizarding world and Muggle had together for helping others.

"If the price is right of course." said Severus.

"If you must know I help people who cannot afford it Mr. Snape, everyone deserves healing." said Joseph a little coldly at assumptions being made upon his character.

"I did not mean that how it sounded," said Severus slightly apologetically but he did not apologize.

"No problem," said Joseph before making his way out of the room, closing the door quietly behind him.

Severus sat back down again, staring almost blankly at the child on the bed. It was finally sinking it what he had to do. What he'd have to sacrifice to do. As he continued looking at him, he realised he owed it to the boy. He was partly at fault for his parents death, partly he said because the man responsible, directly responsible for their death was in Azkaban prison. The one that killed them was no more than a parasite thanks to the child who'd avenged his mother's death before she was even cold. He prayed to Merlin he could do it and not screw up.

Chapter 9

Hunting For A House

"Narcissa can you keep an eye on Harry for me until I get back? He needs two potions in a hour." said Severus, waiting for Narcissa to answer, he wasn't one to take people for granted. Harry had not yet woken, and Severus decided it was time to get a new house. He couldn't raise Harry here, nor could he raise him in Spinner End. It wasn't a nice place to raise anyone, not anymore anyway. It was mostly abandoned, houses boarded up and the cobbles were coming away and the river nearby made it stink something terrible. If he was going to raise Harry, then he was going to do it right. Who would have thought he'd be buying a house? He certainly didn't. He'd always lived in Spinners End, it was enough for him.

"Where are you going?" asked Narcissa in surprise, Severus hadn't left Harry's side in two days, it must be important for him to leave now.

"I'm going to Gringotts to see about purchasing a house," said Severus, his cheeks going slightly pink by Narcissa's shocked look. Honestly did they seriously think he would have raised Harry in the run down building he currently stayed in?

"Of course Severus," said Narcissa, nodding her head in understanding, "Dobby? Look after Draco for me." she said, before making her way up to Harry's room. Draco was currently in his play room, it held everything a child could possibly want and need.

"Yes ma'am." said Dobby disappearing to tend to the young Master.

Narcissa entered her guest room, unlike her husband she didn't have trouble with Harry being here. No not trouble, but as in trouble adjusting to the fact the hero of the Wizarding world was here in their manor. To be honest she'd had more trouble with the fact he was abused. Not many magical children were abused, at least not in the magical world. They were cherished, punished accordingly when needed, sometimes overly so but never actually outright abused to the extent they were dying. Even Death Eaters cherished their children, what had Dumbledore been thinking? It was madness. Unfortunately the little boy on the bed had bore the brunt of it.

She had noticed subtle changes in her best friend, he had always been protective but he was unusually more so now. He must be planning on raising Harry himself, which meant Lucius would have to ensure it was done legally. Otherwise Dumbledore would be able to separate them. Lucius was already away, goodness knows what he was planning. Whatever it was she hoped it was long and painful for those child abusers.

He was so small; he looked years younger than Draco when in fact they were the same age. She could remember reading the newspapers the day after it happened; she already knew something had gone down. Lucius had fallen out of bed and onto the floor screaming in agony. When he'd stopped they'd both seen that the Dark Mark was all but gone. Then the newspapers told everything, Lily and James Potter were dead and Harry Potter had done the impossible. He'd survived the killing curse cast on him by the darkest wizard of the age. She had looked at Draco and was overwhelmed with sadness, especially for feeling so much relief that the madman was gone.

Severus stalked into Gringotts, it was moderately empty, still too early for people to be coming in. "I need to speak to Ironclaw," said Severus standing proud and tall, demanding service right away.

"Right away," said the Goblin, who Severus had no hope of identifying, "Follow me."

They walked to the right, two guards at each side both wizards and they walked on by. Unlike normal banks there were no seats, no welcome feeling to it. It was cold, secure and sterile like the pureblood's preferred it. The goblin gestured for him to wait as he went into one of the many offices. They had a quick conversation in Gobblygook before Severus was called in.

"How can I help you today Mr. Snape?" asked Ironclaw.

"I want to purchase a house, preferably today." said Severus immediately sitting down opposite the goblin. Getting straight to the point, not bothering with politeness and that's the way the goblins liked it. It would surprise Severus to hear that the goblins respected his no nonsense approach to everything.

"Anywhere specific?" asked Ironclaw.

"Preferably secure, and somewhere that's isolated," said Severus immediately, "And in the Muggle world."

"You already have properties fitting that description," said Ironclaw staring at Severus blankly.

Severus raised an eyebrow disbelief written across his face, "How's that?" scoffed Severus, he knew he'd never bought a property never mind several.

"You have inherited the Prince estate, did you not get our mail?" asked Ironclaw frowning at the thought of any of their mail being intercepted or lost. They prided themselves on their abilities and secretiveness. Nobody should have been able to get near his post; the owls were vicious if someone tried.

"I may have," said Severus, he didn't open his mail from Gringotts; they were just put into his drawer at Hogwarts or his desk at Spinners End. They were usually just statements; he already knew every single Galleon, Sickle and Knut in his account. If he had the Prince estate it meant his grandparents were dead. That they had either given it to him, or they had not left a will and it automatically came to him. "Why did I receive it?" he demanded.

"Your grandmother updated her will the day before she died, you received everything." said Ironclaw.

"Why wasn't I invited to a will reading?" demanded Severus.

"You were," said Ironclaw bluntly.

Severus held his tongue; to be truthful he didn't know since he didn't open his damn mail. He would have to search through it all and find out what he could. If he didn't then he had to have a serious word with Gringotts. He knew if he hadn't come here he would never have known about his inheritance. He'd been such a fool dismissing the letters as he had. "Let me see the properties," said Severus brushing his concerns aside.

Ironclaw began sifting through papers, grunting every few seconds before he handed him a small pile of papers. Each detailing the properties, even how many house elves inhabited them. It came as no surprise to see none were in use; the Prince family was gone, only he was left. He couldn't understand how his mother would give all this up, for a small house in Spinners End and a cruel sadistic bastard for a husband.

A manor, did he really want to raise Harry in a manor? Especially somewhere he didn't know? Then again the house elves would ensure nothing happened to Harry if he went somewhere he shouldn't. It was in Scotland that was a surprise, most pureblood families that had manors were in England. It was beautiful; Severus fell in love at the sight of it. Nobody could get them in it, although one was more secure than Prince Hall, which was what that property was called. Prince Pride was a bigger manor, with a lot more security, and a Fidelus Charm imbued on it. Prince Pride? Really that's what they'd called them they had been big headed. The one in Scotland hadn't been lived in since the sixties.

"Prince Hall will be the one I shall use," said Severus immediately, folding the paper and placing it in his pocket. He wanted to look more fully into them, at his own time. "How do I let them know to expect company?"

"The house elves are bound to you, just as the entire estate is, call one to you." said Ironclaw. "The names are listed on the property inventory." Ironclaw looked a little put out at that, creatures were treated terribly. Being a creature himself he knew how it felt, and he didn't like it. The goblin race was once renowned, revered even and now they were reduced to this? Nobody could blame him for being angry.

Severus fished the information back out, staring at the list until he found the house elves. He'd never had one before, this was all new to him, and Lucius was in for a shock. As far as he knew Lucius only had one manor in the UK. They had holiday homes, just like the Princes apparently.

"Flippy?" called Severus his lip curling at the horrendous name he had to say. They might as well have called it fish and gotten it over with really.

"Yes Master?" asked Flippy appearing before him, bowing so low his nose touched the floor. His eyes were large; evidently he had not expected to be called least of all here.

"Is Prince Hall clean?" asked Severus, "Get up off the floor." god he hoped the elf wasn't one of those bowing and scraping things. He hated the way they acted, it was disgusting.

"Yes Master," said Flippy looking excited at the prospect of serving a new Master.

"Then expect company some time today," said Severus.

"Yes Master." said Flippy waiting expectantly for a few seconds, when it became apparent he had nothing more to say, he disappeared.

"Here is an inventory of your new holdings, key's and cards." said Ironclaw handing everything over to the still slightly stunned man. Not that he showed it, he just wasn't his normally ironclad controlled self. "Is there anything else I can help you with?"

"No, may the gods grant you more gold Ironclaw." said Severus nodding his head, respectfully.

"You also Mr. Snape," said Ironclaw nodding his head in respect. Not many people greeted them with proper words anymore.

With that Severus placed his things in his inner cloak pocket. With that he left the office, passed the two wizards standing guard and out into the sunshine. He wasn't sure what his next step should be. Yet as he continued to stalk down the cobbled road of Diagon Alley he made his decision. Taking a deep breath, he Apparated to Hogwarts' gates, hoping Narcissa had remembered to give Harry his potions. Also hoping that Harry hadn't woken up yet. He wanted to the one to explain everything; no doubt the child would be worried and scared.

Staring at Hogwarts, he hitched a ride on the coaches and found himself on his way to the entrance hall. He wondered if Dumbledore would dig deeper, or if he would accept it. He wanted Harry to legally be his for a few years before the old fool found out. Unfortunately Dumbledore had ways of finding out information, and Severus hated that. Ten minutes later the Thestral drawn carriage slowed to a stop. Hopping down he swiftly made his way down to the dungeon's hoping to get in and out without seeing anyone.

He was successful, it being summer it was no surprise really. Entering his quarters he sighed, he actually loved being at Hogwarts. Loathed teaching, but Hogwarts had always been his home. With skilful hands he began packing anything of value to him; the first to get packed was his personal letters and items in his office. Next was his personal lab, and of course his cauldrons, stirring rods and own ingredients. It took him much longer than he thought it would, shrinking everything down he locked his quarters securely and closed his office door. A feeling of melancholy sweeping through him, but he reminded himself he was doing this for Harry…for Lily too.

He immediately went straight to Spinners End, and did what he had to do there. Thankfully there wasn't much he wanted to take with him in the godforsaken house. Just more potion ingredients equipment and of course his books. The furniture was years old, and he didn't mind it being left there. He did put the food in the bin outside, not wanting the place to start getting mouldy. Once he was done he didn't mind so much leaving this place. He Apparated straight to Malfoy Manor, and went straight to Harry's room.

"How is he?" asked Severus.

"Still asleep," said Narcissa, regarding Severus shrewdly, he seemed to have a spring in his step. He had obviously been successful in getting a house. "Severus what are you going to do when you go back to Hogwarts?" she asked, it had been annoying her since he announced his intentions.

"I'm taking a few years sabbatical, after that who knows?" asked Severus.

"Dumbledore won't be happy," said Narcissa.

"No, he won't. It has nothing to do with him." said Severus grimly. "Where's Lucius?"

"I have no idea," said Narcissa, he never told her what he was up to outright, just in case anything happened. Lucius' number one priority was to keep her safe, and if she didn't know everything then she couldn't be implicated.

Petunia sat trembling before the wizard in her home; all he had mentioned was the Dementor's. She had been terrified, so terrified she'd immediately packed up and took the boy's home when Snape had disappeared. Only to find her husband completely drunk and sleeping on the sofa. His mobile phone out of battery and the house phone unplugged. She would have been furious with him if she wasn't so scared.

"Sign it," said Lucius, "Both of them right now." his teeth bared in an animalistic manner.

Petunia's mind was whirling with the ramifications of signing those papers. What would the crackpot old fool think? Right now he's promised she wouldn't have to see another magical freak in her home, yet two of them had been there. She couldn't handle it; she was more scared of the man in front of her than Dumbledore. With shaking hands she signed the papers, giving up custody of her nephew.

"Don't think this is over," said Lucius "I want the boy's belongings."

Petunia's eyes unconsciously skittered towards the cupboard under the stairs. Lucius' eyes followed hers, his eyes flared angrily; they'd already packed his things up in a cupboard? Growling angrily he walked towards it, ignoring Petunia's feeble attempts at disrupting him. His eyebrows disappeared into his hair, Merlin people called him evil? They'd kept the child in a bloody broom cupboard! There was absolutely nothing worth taking. Just three plastic figures, a bed and clothes that obviously belonged to her pig of a son.

"I should kill you right now…but what I have planned…seems much more poetic right now." said Lucius fury written across his face.

"I…I signed the p-apers." stuttered Petunia weakly her brown eyes wide with fear.

"I'll be back," said Lucius viciously, glaring at Petunia so fiercely that she couldn't help but step back her legs shaking and barely able to keep her upright.

As soon as he was gone though she fell to the floor sobbing in fear.

"My office," said Lucius as soon as he was back, they were all in the dining room having dinner. Minus Harry of course, who was probably still recovering, sleep was the best thing for that anyway.

Severus started at Lucius cautiously before getting up, abandoning the remains of his dinner. Both of them walked to Lucius' office, Severus noticed Lucius was extremely agitated. The blonde went straight to his drink cabinet and began filling a large glass full of whiskey.

"What happened?" asked Severus warily, something had rattled Lucius big time.

"They kept him in a cupboard Severus, a bloody broom cupboard." said Lucius his tone full of bitterness and rage.

"What?" choked Severus his eyes wide, unable to believe what he'd heard.

"I can barely believe it myself, the kid had a few plastic figures, a few broken crayons and paper." said Lucius, "And his pig of a cousins clothes, they've provided him with nothing in his life."

Severus sat down heavily shaking his head; he was beginning to realize just how far the abuse went. There was also the fact he would have to undo it all, the Dursley's had to pay for treating Harry like a house elf.

"I have the Prince estate," said Severus changing the subject.

"Really?" asked Lucius impressed, "At least you will have decent properties then."

"Yes, I'm moving into Prince Hall, taking a sabbatical from Hogwarts at least until Harry's eleven." explained Severus.

"That will put the cat among the pigeons," smirked Lucius, wishing he could see Dumbledore's face when he realized Severus had left.

"Indeed," said Severus wryly.

"When are you going?" asked Lucius curiously.

"Tonight," said Severus.

"Here," said Lucius withdrawing the adoption papers, both magical and Muggle, since there hadn't been any magical tampering they were both legal. Lucius was feeling very smug at that.

"What are you doing with the Dursley's?" asked Severus, staring at Lucius in a way that told him he demanded to know.

"I have a man keeping tabs on them twenty four hours a day; I've bought Grunnings which might actually be profitable. Vernon Dursley will find himself without a job soon, and unable to get another." smirked Lucius wryly, he had a squib on his payroll that happened to be a cop. He was about to make Vernon Dursley a man nobody would want to hire. They wouldn't be able to keep up the mortgage on their property and would soon find themselves in a world of trouble. "He's also going to get a hold of their finances for me, I think they might be getting paid for Harry…if that's the case you need to get the Potter estate in order quickly."

Severus grimaced he wasn't a number cruncher; he knew nothing of running estates. Thankfully the Goblins did that otherwise he wouldn't know what to do. "If I must."

"You do otherwise my revenge won't go as planned if they are getting money from the Potter estate." said Lucius sniffing at the thought of something of his not going to plan.

Severus smirked at his friend knowing without reading his thoughts about what was going on in his mind.

"Let us know your Floo address as soon as possible," said Lucius, "Right now I'm starving and could use something to eat. Are you coming?"

"Yes," said Severus standing up, both men then headed to the dining room their conversation over.

Chapter 10

Harry's Going To His New Home

Severus became infuriated when he found no letter containing the will reading. He didn't even have a statement of the Prince holdings, which he should have received each month since he'd been given it. Someone had been messing with his mail, he just didn't understand it. His own personal vault statements got to him, it was highly suspicious that only the Prince statements weren't getting to their destination. His own personal vault was the one he'd opened up when he was seventeen years old. It had remained empty for a while, as he gained his mastery - he had lived hand to mouth during that time. That was nothing new to him; his family had lived hand to mouth too. It didn't help his father had drank most of it. Now it was very full, from independent brewing he did, and of course his wages from teaching idiotic students all year. Since it was a boarding school his wage was lower than a normal teacher's salary. His room and food being paid for before he received his wages. Not that he could complain, he got more than most of the teachers, as head of Slytherin he had more responsibility which meant a higher pay.

He sighed in exasperation, surrounded by parchment, some of scrunched up where his anger got the better of him. He was currently in Lucius' office trying to make sense of this mess. He would have to write to Gringotts; perhaps Ironclaw could send them straight to Prince Hall. If he didn't get them there then simply put he was going to go nuts. If it was just one or two letters he'd understand if they got lost, but not all of them. He had a sneaky suspicion something more was going on than met the eye. It seemed he wouldn't have known about his family money, even if he had been opening his monthly statements.

"Having trouble?" asked Lucius knocking before entering his study, aware that Severus was using it.

"I haven't even started, I'm just trying to make sense of this mess," said Severus smoothly straightening up now that he had company. He had asked to borrow the study to write the letter to Dumbledore about taking a sabbatical. Instead he'd found himself going through a years worth of mail from Gringotts.

"What mess?" enquired Lucius curiously, as he poured both of them a white wine. He passed Severus his goblet as he took a seat next to him. He didn't see Severus stressed often, and wanted to help him if he could.

"I never received the summons for the will reading when my grandparents died. I also discovered I've not been delivered a single statement regarding the Prince Estate." replied Severus sipping the wine; Lucius had excellent taste in drink. He had yet to be offered something he didn't like here.

"Highly unusual," admitted Lucius cautiously, "Perhaps there's a redirection spell on your mail. It was very illegal to do it, unless it was parents doing it for their children." In fact he was pretty sure that's what had happened to Harry Potter. Otherwise Privet Drive would have been covered in owls constantly; no doubt the child had a vault filled with letters and gifts at Gringotts. All the while he had been abused; it was a sorry state of affairs.

"I receive my mail every Monday morning," said Severus shaking his head negatively, "Which includes the statement for my personal vault."

"Severus Gringotts sends them out on Sunday morning," said Lucius staring at his friend in confusion. They were well aware that people worked Monday to Friday. Sunday was what they considered a day of rest, that's when Gringotts sent out their statements, monthly or weekly depending on how you request them.

"I always receive them before classes on Monday, it's why I put them in my drawer and basically forget about them. My week is just too hectic to think about opening mail that I already know." replied Severus. Plus on Monday morning his mood is just too sour and bleak, after spending the weekend brewing without worry, to back to teaching brats that had no desire to learn.

"Well I don't know why they'd want the letters, it's not as though they could get into your vaults." said Lucius, but it was a breech of privacy, he knew Severus loathed the thought of anyone knowing about him. Lucius didn't blame him for being confused and angry about it; he would be infuriated as well.

"That's beside the point," said Severus his lip curled in repugnance.

"I know," said Lucius wryly, he'd figured as much they were the both on the same wavelength at that.

"Well there's nothing to be done about it now," said Severus gathering his letters and placing them into a neat pile. He grabbed a piece of expensive parchment that Lucius used for his correspondence. It was much thicker than the normal paper people used, and less likely to smudge ink all over the place.

"I'll leave you to it," said Lucius swiftly getting up giving Severus privacy to do whatever he needed to do.

"Thank you," said Severus.

"It's no problem Severus, you know I'm here if you ever need help." said Lucius honestly, he may be a dick to most people but family and friends meant a lot to him. The thing with him, he didn't put a white hat on and sell himself of as a saint. Not like Dumbledore did, everyone knew what they were dealing with when his name was mentioned.

The same couldn't be said for Dumbledore. Unfortunately nobody saw what the Slytherin's did, and it wasn't just because they were 'Dark' as he would put it. No they saw a side to him from the second they were sorted until they left Hogwarts. He very prejudicially favoured his own house and looked down his nose at the Slytherin's. All just because Tom Riddle had happened to end up a Dark Lord, they were branded evil and Dark Lords or servants. It was no wonder Slytherin's felt as though they had no choice but to be evil and follow a madman's footsteps looking for acceptance. Acceptance they should have found at Hogwarts, they truly should have abolished the houses along time ago.

Albus Dumbledore was busy sorting through his mail, which being Headmaster and of course the great and powerful 'Albus Dumbledore' it was quite a lot. He had already been at it for three hours and he was getting pigeonholed. Albus stared at the Quidditch pitch from his seat, it was so peaceful and quiet during the summer he thought his mind wandering. It's when he liked it best, helped by not having to keep his masks in place. He didn't have to act all powerful and genial. Every single one of his staff was gone this summer, other than Trelawney of course, who ever went anywhere. She hardly came out of her tower, and Albus was just fine with that. The less people she saw, the less likely she was to make a genuine prophecy and blow the cover he'd created for her. Hopefully nobody would believe her if she did go into a trance these days.

Even his Deputy Headmistress was gone for the summer, visiting her family in Scotland. Unfortunately that landed him with all the mail that went through Hogwarts. He had students to observe, ones that would receive the scholarships this year. They could only give four scholarships each year, to the most deserving students. Of course Albus ensured that they were all Gryffindor's the prejudice old fart that he was.

Just as he put down the finishing touches to his last letter an owl swooped in. Albus stared at it in irritation; his eye twitching slightly was the only outward indication of his anger. He removed the letter; the second he did the owl flew away not waiting on a response. He recognized the writing immediately, he read enough of it during the summer when he revised and looked over the curriculum for each teacher.

He immediately opened it curiously, Severus never got in touch with him during the summer. This had to be a first; his first thought was perhaps the Dark Mark was getting darker…that Voldemort was back before he was ready. Or should he say before he had Potter trained.

Albus,

I know this is a bit unorthodox but I am taking a few years sabbatical. I have been offered a position I couldn't refuse. They are looking for someone to run the most renowned potions lab in Genève Switzerland. Not only that I will have free reign, I will have the ability to buy any ingredient I can think of or grow my own. The money is also greater than I could accomplish in ten years at Hogwarts. Out of all the people they could ask, it was me and another opportunity like this will never come around again.

I've already packed, any sign of trouble and I shall endeavour to make my way back as quickly as possible.

Severus. T. Snape

Albus gaped at the letter unable to even mentally think of a single thing to say. He completely shocked to the core, there was no way Severus would up and leave. Severus owed his very freedom to him; he jumped from his chair and grabbed a handful of Floo powder. He threw it at his feet as he shouted his intended destination.

With fluid grace, that could only come with years of experience he stepped out of the Floo. He waved his wand and cleaned up the mess, looking around his heart sank. Severus had indeed packed, his books were gone. Albus knew how much Severus liked his books; he took them to and from Hogwarts each year.

"Severus?" demanded Dumbledore, listening for a reply, barely retaining his composure he went into the kitchen - then the room he used for making potions, hoping he was there brewing away. Yet no, there was nothing, and he meant nothing. The potions, cauldrons, racks, vials and shelves were emptied. He truly had left, and he had no way of getting in touch with him other than mail. The Potions labs in Genève Switzerland were inaccessible, they never had visitors, people could only dream about being in such a place. Only the best were allowed in, Potions, spell crafters, charms, transfiguration, the building was huge and each subject had a level of its own with the brightest and best people inventing.

Albus stood there at a loss, unable to believe Severus had actually left. After all he'd done for the man he'd betrayed him. If he didn't know Voldemort would be back, he would have gone straight to the Ministry to get a warrant for his arrest. He had to get Severus back, he had to keep the man close - he had to know the first second Voldemort came back. It's why he had insisting on keeping the sarcastic dour man close. Perhaps he shouldn't have kept the Prince estate from him, if he had it - he might not have been tempted by the money they offered him.

One thing for sure, he wasn't going to get him back standing here, angry beyond words Albus Apparated back to Hogwarts. He unfortunately couldn't go back through the Floo, there was no Floo powder.

Twenty five minutes later he was back in his office, sucking on two lemon drops laced with calming draught as he wrote to Severus. Finding it extremely difficult to not use words that would drive Severus further into their arms. If he liked it there, there was no telling if he'd ever get Severus back. He also had to make back up plans if he couldn't get him, he would need a potions teacher come one month time. He prayed that didn't happen, unemployed Potions Masters were difficult to come by. In fact Severus had been the first Potions Master Hogwarts had, had since Salazar Slytherin. The rest had just been teachers with very good potion grades.

"Have you got everything you'll need?" asked Narcissa folding yet another top and putting it on the pile. She was giving Severus Draco's old clothes; they would probably fit him for a while. At least until he got better and would be okay to venture out. If that itself would even be possible, Harry's scar was too recognizable. Not many five year olds had scars shaped like a lightening bolt on their forehead.

She had even given Severus some plastic plates, cups and small cutlery for Harry to use, all with Quidditch items moving around on them. She had gotten used to them there; she was finding it weird knowing they were leaving again. She shook off her absurd thoughts and nodded in satisfaction, they surely had everything Harry would need until he was better.

"Indeed," said Severus exasperated by her mothering, a very small part was grateful for it. He didn't know what the hell he was doing, but what new father did? And it was official Harry was his adopted son. He had signed the papers as well; Harry's guardianship had passed to him. The only people that knew about it were Lucius, Narcissa and the adoption certifier, oh and the clerk he'd bribed very heavily to sign of on it and store it. They'd also sworn oaths never to speak about it, and so they were safe for now. Gringotts probably knew as well, since everything was magically recorded.

He was correct; Harry Potter's documents had changed.

Before :-

Mother - Lily Evans-Potter (Deceased)

Father - James Harold Potter (Deceased)

Godfather - Sirius Orion Black (Imprisoned)

Godmother - N.A

Magical Guardian - Albus Dumbledore (Headmaster of Hogwarts)

Guardian - Petunia Evans- Dursley (Maternal aunt and Muggle)

After :-

Mother - Lily Evans-Potter (Deceased)

Father - James Harold Potter (Deceased)

Godfather- Sirius Orion Black (Imprisoned)

Adopted Godfather - Lucius Malfoy

Adopted Godmother - Narcissa Malfoy

Adopted Godmother - Minerva McGonagall

Magical Guardian - Severus Tobias Snape

Guardian - Severus Tobias Snape

Severus had decided to use Minerva as a godmother; she was strong enough to stand up to Dumbledore. If she had control of Harry, she would bring him up fair, he would be happy and as unspoiled as a child could be. He had met her children, and they were always polite and well spoken. With the Malfoy's it was more of a back up in case anything happened to him and Minerva. Nobody could get behind the Malfoy wards to try anything. Should Dumbledore (doubtful) try and kill them all to regain control of Harry.

"Make sure he's warm enough," she said wrapping a light blue cover over him, as Severus picked the unconscious child up. The healer had been and Harry had made real progress. There would be no more check ups; he had been given a clean bill of health - well other than the obvious malnutrition. Which unfortunately couldn't be corrected right away - even with all the miracles magic could produce. No it would take along time for Harry to be the correct height and weight as other children his age. "Are you using a Portkey? Floo'ing or Apparating?"

"I am having the house elf take us, just the first time." stated Severus, he didn't like Apparating blindly, and if it was just he himself he'd do it. Unfortunately he had a sick child with him, and didn't want to risk Splinching them both. That was one sure way to have them both found out.

"That's good," said Narcissa still fussing slightly, in only a way a mother could over children. "You'll Floo us regularly wont you? Let us know how he is!"

"Yes, of course," said Severus distractedly as he thought about everything, making sure he had all his stuff, trunk, letters, keys for his bank vaults…yes he had absolutely everything he needed.

Severus then called upon his house elf; it was time for them to go to their new home. One thing for sure Severus mused; it was going to be a learning experience they wouldn't forget. He only prayed he didn't mess up, Lily would never forgive him if he did.

Anything was better than Petunia though right?

Chapter 11

OK GUYS YOU MIGHT FIND MORE MISTAKES THAN USUAL AND ALL I ASK IS FOR YOUR PATIENCE I HAVE NO CORRECTING WORD PROCESSOR ON MY IPAD WHICH IM USING ATM SINCE MY COMPUTER IS BROKEN - THOSE OF YOU ON MY YAHOO GROUP ALREADY KNOW! SO PLEASE JUST BEAR WITH ME WHILE I WAIT ON MY NEW COMP COMING!

Prince Hall In Its Glory

"Flippy!" ordered Severus, since the home was protected he'd need to know its exact location before attempting it. He would also need to add Harry's blood to the wards, so no harm would befall him. The wards should know Harry was his adopted son, but he wasn't about to take any chances.

"Yes, Sir?" said Flippy appearing before him, dressed nicely, for a house elf anyway, in a Prince garment. Evidently the Prince's went about things differently, and actually treated their elves with kindness. Severus had no plans to change that. He unlike Lucius didn't think instilling fear into house elves, was the way to go about getting their loyalty.

"Take us home," said Severus in his normal sharp voice.

"Yes Sir!" said Flippy looking extremely pleased. Finally they were going to have another Master to serve. They had been looking forward to this day, for such a long time. The others were just as excited, he had told them as soon as he got back.

Flippy took a hold of Severus' robes, and the grandness of Malfoy Manor disappeared. They re-appeared in a beautiful and no less grand manor of Severus' ancestors - The Prince's. Severus was finally home.

Prince Hall welcomed them its wards tingling down Severus' body, giving him full contol of them.

"Welcome home, Master Severus." said Flippy stepping back from his wizards personal space. Waiting patiently for more orders.

"Has two rooms been cleaned up?" Severus asked, the bundle in his arms was rather heavy. Goodness knows how, Harry weighted almost nothing, something he was hoping to rectify within a month at the least. Something told Severus it wasn't going to be that easy, it would take a very long time for Harry to eat like a normal child.

"Yes, sir. Follow me, I'll show you the way." said Flippy excited.

Severus rolled his eyes as the elf showed him the way, Flippy was far too cheerful and exciting for his taste. Then again name someone who wasn't too cheerful for Severus' taste. You'd probably find it was a very short list indeed.

Thankfully they weren't led up too many steps, in fact it was just the one set. The manor was wider rather than 'Bigger' in the sense of height. The 'Master' bedroom door was opened and Severus got to see it, before they went to the door next to it. This one was known as the 'heir' bedroom by all previous owners. Traditions were dying, as was the old way of speaking and thinking.

Severus walked into the bedroom, it was large but not as big as the one he'd just been shown. There were numerous cupboards, a large four poster bed, dark red furnishing. It wasn't for a small child, lets put it that way. That wasn't Severus' concern right now, when Harry was well enough he could decide for himself. He spelled the duvet down, and put the sleeping child into his new bed.

Staring at Harry, he looked starved, even after all the potions he'd been given. He truly needed some meat on his bones. Breathing deeply, he threw the duvet over Harry and cuddled him in - admittedly he'd rather have the Cruciatus Curse thrown on him than admit it. He was a private closed off man for a reason, and not many people knew why, and even less people alive that knew.

Severus walked over to the window, gazing outside in awe, the place was truly beautiful. Green grass as far as the eye could see, trees with all sorts of fruits were placed in various places. He could see the edges of a large lake or pond from one side. On the other, much to his disgust - a Quidditch pitch. He was rather curious, around the rest of the place. With one last glance at Harry, he left the room. Harry would be fine, he had a spell on the child. He would be alearted the second Harry began to return to consciousness. He had applied it after the healer had been, he had yet to feel it stir.

He took three hours, looking over every inch of his new home, most of the time he spent outside. Venturing to the edges of the wards, and circling around. The stables, the empty huts for other animals. There was even chicken huts, but Severus was unsure if they were inhabited. There were Herbology green houses, larger than even the ones he'd seen at Hogwarts. He was pretty sure there were also potion plants inside, at least the ones that lived in sunlight. Most potions required dark places to thrive, he did get rather excited by the prospect of seeing the Potions lab. He didn't have to fear that the house didn't have one, the Princes were known for their potion abilities. Even Eileen, Severus' mother, had been good at potions. Admittedly Severus was the best the family had seen in generations. Perhaps thats why his grandmother had passed their fortune onto their grandson. It was a good job the grandmother had outlived the grandfather, otherwise the Ministry would have gotten everything.

When lines died out, the Ministry received it, their first excuse was 'to help rebuild their world'. Now they weren't using any excuses, so all pureblood's made sure to have wills. Most wizards and witches loathed the Ministry, and it wouldn't change any time soon.

"What can Misty get Master Severus for dinner?" asked Misty popping into the hallway that led to the potion labs. There were four, individual rooms with two large cupboards filled with potion ingredients and of course herbs.

"I am fine with whatever you cook." said Severus his concentration was really on the potions lab, he desperately wanted to see it. He opened the door, and unbelievably an almost genuine smile spread across his face. It was the first genuine one, since his first ride to Hogwarts, on the train. He'd loved Lily, but even at the age of eight, emotion was considered, to him, a weakness. Seldom could anyone get a genuine, positive emotion from Severus. The only time his masks were down was when he was brewing potions, the one pure thing he could control in his life.

"Yes, Master!" exclaimed Misty her jubilant cry sounded the hallway despite her already being gone.

Severus entered the lab properly, if it wasn't for Harry he would already planning his first potion. He desperately wanted to brew something, anything. Unfortunately, and regretfully he backed out, and closed the door. He would definately be back, perhaps once Harry was better.

He explored more of the lower house, using spells to stop five year old getting into area's he didn't think were appropriate. Which meant most of the rooms in the manor, other than the used bedrooms, living room, kitchen and a few other general places. The libary he even sealed off, it was ten times bigger than Hogwarts own library. He wasnt about to let priceless books be destroyed by bored fingers or accidental magic. Harry couldn't read right now anyway, but it was something he would have to think about at great length. Who could he trust with Harry's life and education?

"Misty?" called Severus now outside the library door.

"Yes, sir?" asked Misty appearing before him, a small apron on and a carrot in her hand.

"Where is the warding room?" demanded Severus, he had a drop of Harry's blood, so they could add him to the ancient wards of Prince Hall. He should be privileged, Harry was the only non member to be added. The Princes werent good at trusting, perhaps it was a family trait Severus had picked up.

"Flippy?" called Misty, once he appeared, the she-elf spoke again, "Show Master Severus to the warding room."

Flippy nodded in respect and acceptance of the task at his fellow house elf, before he spoke once again to his new master."Follow me, sir." said Flippy looking curious? a little shocked? it was hard to read a house elves face.