Look Me In The Eyes

When Worlds Collide

The sun rose over Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the heat of the summer melting off to reveal a cooling breeze. The changing colors of the leaves blew against the wind, a new school year just a few days away. Teachers and Staff packed their bags to once again become mentors, great minds to look up to for both old and new students.

Severus was one of the first to arrive at Hogwarts, deciding to take the floo into his rooms. The chilly air and familiar silence of the Dungeons made him feel safe and renewed, enjoying the dark solitude more than most would.

It took only a few hours to have everything unpacked and cleaned to Severus's liking, heading over to Minerva's office in Gargoyle Corridor. He had a meeting with her after lunch which he chose to skip due to a large breakfast.

Severus enjoyed having Minerva as the Head Master, but somewhere in the deep crevices of his dusty heart he would always miss Albus Dumbledore. It was extremely difficult dealing with the grief the past few years, but Severus felt as if that harsh weight was finally lifting with the rest of his stress.

Minerva's office was a fun place to visit, always filled with whimsy and magical artifacts. She had kept the overall shape the same as remembrance of Albus, but the objects and furniture were her own. Many things sparkled and twinkled on the shelves and her desk, giving a warm feeling to whomever came to visit.

Severus muttered the new password he was given for the year, being brought up by the gargoyle staircase. He walked in slowly, admiring some of the new additions to the office. He raised a brow to see he wasn't the only one in attendance.

Horace Slughorn, Rubius Hagrid, and Madam Poppy Pomfrey sat in arm chairs infront of Minerva's desk.

"May I ask...what we are all doing in here?" Severus questioned curiously, slight irritation in his tone. He was never a man who enjoyed surprises.

Minerva stood from her big chair, a soft but concerned smile on her face. "Severus please sit, we have to talk with you for a few moments." She pointed her elegant painted nails at the chair in the middle.

Severus flattened his cloak as he sat down, keeping himself alert and very reserved. "If this is about my health, I thought that was settled at the end of last year."

"No, no of course not, my examination last year and this previous summer you passed with flying colors!" Madam Pomfrey smiled reassuringly.

"Severus we know you're healthy, even more so now that you've doubled your strength and magic." Minerva said proudly.

"Then to what do I owe this crowded gathering?" Severus asked dryly.

"Severus you're starting Advanced Potions! I was supposed to but I chose Defense Against The Dark Arts this year! We wanted to congratulate you! It takes a very strong Wizard to be chosen!" Horace buttered Severus up.

Severus glared at the obvious kiss ass in Horace's voice, looking at Minerva suspiciously. "Yes...but I'll ask again why am I here?"

Everyone exchanged nervous looks.

"Severus you've come a long way and we all know you will excel at Advanced Potions, you might even surpass the skill within weeks...but because you have such an affinity for teaching...we were hoping you'd have a protégé." Minerva said very carefully.