The Potions Master and the Ravenclaw

The Battle of Hogwarts: Part I

Snape's feet lithely touched the ground just beyond the gate of Malfoy Manor, his movements fluid and uninterrupted as he transitioned from sky to earth. His face was set with fierce intensity, his jaw clenched so tightly it was a wonder his teeth didn't crack under the pressure. His pale face almost glowed in the moonlight and his black eyes glittered brilliantly, his own magic crackling around him like static electricity. The ill wind blew his long hair and his cloak while he stalked toward the entrance.

Though a weight had been lifted from his shoulders in telling McGonagall of his role as a triple agent, his anxiety regarding the survival of himself and his wife still choked him like an icy, spidery, long-fingered hand around his throat.

He slashed his wand through the air and his silver owl flew from its tip, sending a signal to Madeline that he was alright. Alive - for now - and that McGonagall knew the truth.

He passed through the gate in a puff of black smoke and hurriedly made his way up the path, propelled by pure adrenaline. When he reached the great oak doors, he flicked his wand impatiently and they flew open. He crossed the threshold and began to climb the stone stairs leading the dining hall where the Dark Lord and his Death Eaters were awaiting his arrival.

Every eye in the room immediately locked onto his imposing figure as entered the room, and the Dark Lord stood to greet him.

"Severus! What news do you bring us?"

"My lord," he intoned in his low, rich voice. "I've been driven from the castle by McGonagall and the other heads of house. The Carrows have been captured."

"I suppose it was only a matter of time," replied Voldemort, seemingly unbothered.

"Indeed, my lord. The Carrows' considerable incompetence inevitably led to their undoing."

"Unfortunate, though not surprising. And Potter?"

"Still at large, I'm afraid. I was expelled before I had the opportunity to locate him."

"But he lives?"

"To the best of my knowledge, my lord. Yes. He lives."

"Very good, Severus. Very good."

"My deepest apologies, my lord. I deeply regret that I was unable to bring the boy to you."

"It is inconsequential. There will be no need to seek the boy. Before this night has ended, Potter will come to me."

"My lord," Snape bowed reverently.

Voldemort raised his hands like a priest blessing his flock. "My faithful Death Eaters, the time has come."

They rose in unison, and one by one, they disapparated.

...

The Dark Lord stood on the precipice of the cliff overlooking Hogwarts castle, his most trusted lieutenants at his side - Snape on his right, Bellatrix on his left. Hundreds of Death Eaters were gathered behind them, wands at the ready, poised for action and waiting upon their master's command. Their faces were lit by the glow of the powerful protective charms surrounding the school, and Snape's heart pounded in his chest.

His thoughts strayed to his wife, whom he prayed to every god in existence was still safe in the cottage in Hogsmeade. A sharp pain stabbed through his heart at the thought of being so close to her, but unable to hold her. Touch her. Keep her safe in his arms.

The voice of the Dark Lord broke his reverie, and a chill crept down Snape's spine.

"They never learn," he sneered derisively. "Such a pity."