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Hex-Crossed Lovers	By : HPRndRobin Category: Harry Potter > Slash - Male/Male > Harry/Snape Views: 14816 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, nor any of the characters from the books or movies. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
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Hex-Crossed Lovers

Chapter 6

By Corgi

A/N: Bold print is parseltongue and italics denote telepathy.

"Well Professor Snape, with whom would you like to share your bed tonight?" You have two choices; Harry Potter or Noir, the snake who can rummage in your head at will?" Harry asked snarled at Severus after the emoticon bond forced them into physical contact.

Severus seethed at this development and he did what he did best. He blamed Harry. It was easy enough to do. After all he's been doing it for years. Eventually the boy's words sank past his anger. He had a choice, the boy or the snake. The brat's animagus form was out of the question. He didn't want the brat sifting through his thoughts as he slept. He had enough nightmares as it was. His body on the other hand was screaming 'take the boy, take the boy' as loudly as it could. A quick glance out of the corner of his eye showed Albus and his blasted twinkling eyes enjoying the show. There was no way Severus was going to give the old fool the satisfaction of watching him work his way through this dilemma. Severus grabbed Harry's arm and dragged him from Albus' office and headed for his quarters. There was no way he was eating in the Great Hall with Harry Potter practically glued to his hip.

Luck was favouring Severus that evening and he didn't run into anyone wandering the hallways as he dragged the boy wonder through the dungeon hallways towards he quarters. He wasn't relishing having to share his bed with the brat, especially with those conflicting urges racing through his body at the moment. The castle was mercifully silent as he reached his door. Three taps of his wand, center, left upper corner and right upper corner, and a muttered password allowed Severus access to his rooms as he dragged Harry through the threshold.

He didn't give Harry a moment to get his bearings when he slammed the teenager against the wall. He pinned the boy to the wall by the younger man's throat and snarled in rage at him. He saw confusion in those green eyes as he fought his building anger down enough for him to speak.

"YOU WILL NEVER DO ANYTHING TO ME WITHOUT MY PERMISSION EVER AGAIN! DO YOU UNDERSTAND?" Severus snarled at the younger man pinned to the wall. "I HAVE NO DESIRE TO BE AMONG THOSE WHO'VE BEEN KILLED BECAUSE OF YOU!"

Something flickered and died in Harry's eyes, but Severus was too angry to care what it was. He was beyond thinking at that point and nothing was going to keep him from having his say for a change. He was so angry at the boy, Albus and the pile of rocks he calls home he could no longer contain it.

"I plan on teaching my classes despite this complication. I expect you to stay out of my way. I'm not putting my life on hold because of you. I don't have time to deal with a spoiled brat. You're as lazy as that mutt Black!" Severus snarled and Harry's eyes flickered in anger. Severus didn't have a chance to react to it.

A short, but strong, jab to his chest left him winded and he found himself being dragged to a chair. Once he was pushed into the chair, Harry's hands rested on the arms of the chair; caging Severus in the chair. Severus watched as the younger wizard gathered his thoughts, the emerald eyes flashing with Harry's anger. Severus braced himself for the brat's self-centered rant. He was surprised when it wasn't that.

"You listen for a change. Like you always tell me, the world doesn't revolve around you. The Headmaster wants to end the war with as little deaths as possible, the castle's main goal is the ivalival of itself and its function, and I just want to be able to live my own life. I don't know what your long term goals are; you wouldn't tell me if I asked."

"It's no of your business!" Severus snarled, but then continued in a resigned voice. "It's not like it matters anymore, thanks to this pile of rocks. I just wanted my bloody life back."

"So do I, but neither of us have much of a choice now." Harry tried to find something that would placate the older man. "Just think of all the things we could do once we take over the school. All the things we don't like Albus' stewardship we don't care for that we could change."

"Things will never change with a Gryffindor in charge, Potter. Don't try placating me. It'll never work. By the time Albus give up the reins you'll be so set in your ways it'll be impossible to change anything."

"That's why the castle stuck us together. If Albus does survive this war, which is a possibility not a certainty, I won't follow the path Albus has already set. You'll be the counter weight in my training."

"It won't happen. You're an arrogant spoiled brat, just like your father. You always see your way as the right and only way."

"I AM NOT MY FATHER!" Harry yelled at Severus with cold fury flashing in his eyes.

Severus blinked in surprise at the out burst and his eyes widened minutely when he felt his body stir with arousal. He wasn't expecting such assertiveness from Potter. This wasn't the best of situations for Severus, the position he was in wouldn't hide his arousal should the boy look down and Potter's warm breath flowing over his face didn't help matters at all. A moan escaped before he could suppress it and Potter looked at him in concern.

"Are you alright, sir?"

"I'd be better if this mess happened a year later." Severus muttered to himself; forgetting Harry was there in his discomfort.

Harry stared at Severus in confusion before he took a close look at the older man's face. Lust was visibly evident in the black eyes of the spy, who was looking at the ceiling trying to compose himself, and he glanced further down at the very noticeable erection tenting the man's robes. Harry smiled sadly at the comment now that he understood it.

"So am I," Harry replied softly, his voice heavily laced with regret.

"So are you what?" Severus moved his gaze from the ceiling to the wizard in front of him, wondering what the pest was talking about.

"You said you would have been happier if this happened a year later and I agreed." Harry explained patiently to the volatile man.

"I didn't think I said that aloud." Severus looked closely and saw genuine regret shining in Harry's eyes. "Why would you bother with me? Most of the wizarding would be throwing themselves at your feet."

"I've got tons of people doing that, but they just want the fame of being with me, nothing else."

"You're not going to tell me you're a virgin, are you?"

"Nah, I'm not, but a word of warning to you. If Fred and George are in the castle hide in your rooms until they leave. If they know you're unattached they'll waylay you."

"I'll remember that. They never were sufficiently afraid of me." Severus cocked his head to the side in thought. "I'm surprised you're not fighting my decision. You usually do if it's something you want."

"It wouldn't change your decision. You're just as stubborn as I am. Besides I've never won an argument with you and I doubt I ever will. You've made it clear that you feel students are out of bounds."

"I have no wish to be fired and thrown in Azkaban for dallying with a student."

"There is no law or school rule against it, Severus. Harry is of age also."

Both Severus and Harry jumped at the castle's sudden addition to their conversation. Soon the smell of food permeated the room and Harry offered Severus a hand up from the chair. They walked side by side to the food covered table the castle summoned for them. They ate in silence listening as the castle filled them in on the happenings around the school. She did them the favor of relaying messages to Albus about Severus' teaching in the morning and letting them know the Headmaster's decision. Severus would be resuming his classes in the morning and Harry could sleep in around the older wizard's neck. If they thought the castle goingoing to give them any peace after they ate they were sadly mistaken. As soon as Severus finished eating and placed his fork down, Harry had finished moments earlier, the castle revived the subject of Severus and Harry forming some sort of relationship. Severus was ready to bang his head against the table when Harry jumped to his defence, again.

"In all the years you've been standing I'm surprised you haven't come across this before. You don't understand the problem."

"What could be the problem? You're of age, there are no school rules against it, and you're obviously interested. What problem?" The castle was clearly bewildered and Severus waited to see how Harry could possibly explain his position. He doubted the young wizard really understood what the problem was.

"Severus was known to be a Death Eater. If the Headmaster didn't vouch for him he would have been in Azkaban with the other's when Riddle was resurrected during my fourth year. As a result he'll always be suspect, despite the spying he's doing. He has to be seen as someone whose morals and decoare are well above what everyone considers proper. That's why he can't and won't." Harry looked over at the man sitting next to him and saw the stunned look on the man's face. "Did I forget something?"

"I'm surprised you understood. You may kill me if you manage to survive the Dark Lord unscathed." Severus replied with a hint of humour. Perhaps when the young man is done with his schooling he'd be willing.

"How about I kill you now and you can give Tommy the grand tour." Harry smirked at the older man, who he swore was trying to hold back laughter.

"I'd rather not. Maybe Lucius would like to do that."

"True, he's definitely a boot licker."

The tense atmosphere was broken and for a while they managed to sit in a companionable silence as each managed to lose themselves in their thoughts. Severus railed against the lack of choices and went back through the conversation, no not a conversation, but his venting from earlier. As much as he didn't want to he knew he should apologize for his outburst earlier. He knew hit a nerve when he was letting his temper run free and if he wanted to survive this bond he would have to make amends. He didn't get a chance to apologize to the brat once his thoughts were in order. Harry just started to speak and shocked him with what he had to say.

"You're right, you know." Harry glanced at him from the corner of his eye.

"Right about what, Potter?" Severus did his best to keep his tone neutral.

"That bit about people near me getting killed." A haunted looked entered Harry's eyes. "Everyone that's near me has a huge bull's eye painted on them. Riddle will take them out one by one, just to hurt me. Hell, the bastard would take you and Malfoy out if he realized how much my equilibrium would be thrown without you two driving me insane every day."

"Don't give me that, Potter. You've hated me from day one." Severs scoffed outwardly, while inwardly he wondered how much Potter blamed on himself. They boy was definitely close to cracking from the way he sounded.

"If you a said that a year or so ago, I would have agreed with you. Recently I've come to the conclusion that I hate the way you act. I don't know you. I don't think anyone really does, except the Headmaster." Harry glanced out of the corner of his eye to watch the man's reaction.

"It would seem that I can say the same. Does anyone really know you, Potter?" Severus wondered how much Potter's friends truly knew. He had a suspicion that the boy kept a lot to himself.

"Not as much as they'd like. The more they know the more likely Riddle will take them. I've tried to push them away for their safety, but they won't let me keep the distance." A painful tone entered the boy's voice.

"They're all targets regardless of their closeness to you, Potter. The Weasley's have been feuding with the Malfoy's for generations and Ms. Granger is a target because of the circumstances of her birth. You can't protect them by pushing them away. I've learned that the hard way when I forced my only real friend away."

"Do you still blame yourself?" Harry asked softly.

"Yes." Severus answered just as quietly. He wondered if that rumour he's heard about the brat's muggle relatives was true. "So Potter, what about those rumours running around about your relatives? Are they true?"

Harry turned to look at Severus and for several moments looked straight into his eyes. Severus got the impression the younger wizard was looking for something. Whether he found it or not, Severus didn't know. Harry sat silently for a long while and Severus figured he wasn't going to get anything out of the boy. Severus retreated into his own thoughts and jumped when Harry began to speak.

"It's just the tip of the ice burg, Professor." When Severus turned back to Harry he noticed that Harry was still looking at him. They boy then turned his back to Severus and stared at a point high on the wall. "The truth is worse than the rumours." With that, Harry lifted up the jumper and shirt beneath it to reveal his back, which was so riddled with scars that an observer couldn't find a patch of unmarred skin.

What was even more disturbing than the crisp straight lines of belt marks was the word 'FREAK' burned into the boy's back, right down the spine. Severus had a cold feeling in his gut and knew he had to ask the one question that always disturbed him when dealing with the children in his house. Severus debated how to broach the subject as he watched Harry pull his shirt down to cover the marks on his back once again.

"Who burned the word into your back?" Severus asked, deciding that a direct questioning would be the best way to approach the matter.

"My cousin did it while my Uncle held me down." Harry's voice was barely audible and only Severus' years of spying allowed him to hear that virtually silent response.

"Did they," Severus looked closely as he was speaking, looking for any hint that the boy was hiding the truth, "ever rape you?" The moment the question was out of his mouth Harry had stiffened and began to shake minutely. Several moments passed while the boy refused to answer. Severus reached out and grabbed the boy's chin to make the younger wizard look him in the eye. "Harry, tell me. Did they rape you?" Severus watched as the boy struggled. His eyes began to tear as realized he had no way out.

"My cousin and his gang of friends ambushed me in the park at the start of the summer holidays." Harry said in a hoarse whisper as he shook like a leaf in a high wind. He wouldn't make eye contact with Severus and his gaze darted around the room as if looking for an escape route.

"Harry," Severus said while placing his hands on both sides of Harry's eyes, effectively forcing the younger man to look at him, "it wasn't your fault. You did nothing to cause that to happen." Severus hesitated a moment before asking his next question. "Did it happen before or after your time with the twins?"

"Before." Harry's eyes began to drift away from Severus' again.

"Harry, look at me." When Harry's eyes met his again he continued. "Did they force you?"

"No." Harry saw that Severus a little reluctant to believe that, so he chose to elaborate. "They didn't pressure me or anything lthatthat. They flirted and made very suggestive remarks. I just wanted to find out if it was different if it was someone who gave a damn about me."

"Did you have any flash backs or problems? It's very unusual for a victim to bounce back enough to enjoy the activity so soon."

"No, I wasn't being held down or called names. It was alright."

"Did you tell them what happened?"

"No, they would have done something and gotten in trouble with the Ministry or worse gotten their father in trouble at work."

"I understand that. Did you talk to Lupin or tell anyone?"

"No, Lupin and I haven't spoken since I was allowed to come to the clubhouse." Severus started in surprise hearing the boy refer to the lycanthrope by his surname. Harry must have noticed his reaction and elaborated. "He blames me for Sirius' death. I don't know why he suddenly reversed his opinion on the matter, but he did. He won't talk to me and Defence is starting to be like Potions was."

Severus was alarmed at the statement. He knew that Lupin didn't blame the boy; in fact the were-wolf was adamant about Sirius' foolish insistence on joining the Order at the Department of Mysteries at the end of the boy's fifth year. He suspected a poly-juiced imposter in place of the real were-wolf. One thing about Polyjuice, it didn't force the changes that magical creatures underwent. If the person was impersonating a vampire, they wouldn't require blood like the real one did. So who ever was impersonating the were-wolf wouldn't transform the night of the full moon, but still would need the potion to keep their captive from bursting free and killing them. Severus knew he needed to tamper with the Wolfsbane he needed for the next day. He'll add something that will turn the drinker a lovely shade of Slytherin green and inform the Headmaster of his suspicions in the morning.

"When did Lupin's about face occur, Potter?"

"It began at the start of my 6th year." Severus now knew why the Order's plans were going poorly. They were infiltrated.

"We will talk more about your problems tomorrow." Harry gave him a look that said 'no way in hell' and Severus pinned him with his gaze. "We will talk more, you have to talk to someone and it may as well(bo me. Professor McGonagall would have sent you down to me if you had confided in her. Abuse is a very common thing among the students of my house and it's not something she's able to counsel you about. You cannot keep this bottled inside; you'll only hurt yourself more and no one will be able to help you in the long run if you allow it to eat you from the inside."

Harry transferred his gaze to the floor while a few tears tracked unheeded down his face. Severus unconsciously wiped those tears away as he pondered the situation. Perhaps the bond was more of an asset in this situation. At least Harry couldn't run from him with the bond. Severus decided another little spat will keep the bond from letting them move apart, it'll only help him get the boy to open up some more.

"You need some sleep and so do I." Severus pulled the shaking boy to his feet and dragged him into the bedroom. Severus noticed a new door cut cut into the far right hand wall of his room and noticed another bedroom. 'That must have been the change Minerva said they were doing. Too bad the bond has us unable to use separate rooms, not that he wanted to leave the boy alone. He never let a student in Harry's situation be alone after such an emotion ordeal.' Severus pulled the boy into the new bedroom and led him to his trunk. "Get changed into your night clothes Harry."

Harry mechanically bent over his trunk and searched through it for his night clothes and Severus noticed how thread bare and dingy his clothes are. He wondered why the boy wore such horrid clothes. Severus may have to unbend enough and force the boy to go clothes shopping while this bond is in effect. Severus turned his back to give the boy some privacy while changing then the two of the trudged into Severus' room and repeated the procedure for him. While leading the silent wizard Severus decided to test the bond and see how far apart it would allow them to move and found rather quickly that it didn't loosen it's stranglehold on them. Growling mentally to himself he coaxed the still silent wizard onto the bed.

"I need to get up early to start that blasted potion for the Dark Lord so try and get as much sleep as you can. Would you like a vial of Dreamless Sleep?" Severus watched Harry as the wizard looked longingly at the bottle and shook his head.

"I can't take anymore. I almost over did it during the summer." Severus was slightly alarmed. If the boy was buying it from someone it could have been tampered with.

"Where did you get the potion?"

"I made it."

Severus felt a bit of the tension tightening his shoulders dissipate as he slid into the bed next to the younger wizard. Severus looked over his shoulder and saw Harry curled tightly into a ball, staring sightlessly at the bare wall in front of him. Severus began to try and settle down with his back to the boy and was yanked abruptly closer as the bond determined they were too far apart. Severus was grateful the castle had clammed up so he'd be alone with his thoughts as he tried prioritizing these latest developments. As much as he disliked doing so their spy had to be dealt with first. He'd have to see the Headmaster between classes so the situation could be diffused. Harry's situation will be solely on his shoulders and Severus knew he would be fighting an uphill battle getting the boy to trust him. There was a small amount of trust there, mostly well buried or instinctual, but more would be needed in order for Severus to help him. One good thing about their whole situation is that Harry can not leave the castle for the summer.

As his thoughts about the younger wizard tumbled in his mind he planned a course of action to deal with the after effects of years of abuse. He kept part of his attention focused on the sounds around him. His decade long habits allowed him to hear when Harry's breathing became even as the young man fell asleep and then the first signs of a nightmare that caused the boy to thrash and scream. Severus rushed to waked the boy from his nightmare and he hoped that it was an actual dream and not one the visions of the Dark Lord that the Headmaster said they boy had from time to time. Severus pinned the boy's arms down, as Harry wailed into the night, and called with increasing volume the boy's name. Severus didn't know whether his shouting or the dream's completion brought Harry back to reality, but as suddenly as his dream started it stopped. Harry opened his eyes and saw Severus leaning over him. Harry must have seen through his perpetual mask because surprise warred with his panic before the memory of his dream over rode everything else. Tears ran down the younger man's face as he struggled to speak. What he said next filled Severus with dread.

"Riddled attacked the Burrow."

"Damn, come with me. We've got to inform Albus." Severus dragged Harry to his sitting room fireplace. He grabbed a hand full of Floo powder and shouted 'Albus Dumbledore' and settled the two of them in front of the fire.

"Severus, Harry, wcan can I do for you?" Albus asked, for once his twinkle wasn't in evidence.

"Mr. Potter had another of his visions." Severus informed the elderly wizard and did his best to comfort the shaking boy without appearing to do so.

"Harry?" Albus prompted the boy.

"Riddle attacked the Burrow, personally with an escort of ten Death Eaters. I didn't know if everyone was home at the time. I saw Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, Fred and Bill port key away. I didn't know if any of them are hurt or which port key or keys they used."

"Did you recognize any of the Death Eaters there?" Albus asked, hoping for any leads possible.

"Malfoy, McNair, Lestrange and Parkinson were the only ones I know. One of the others was bitten on the leg by a baby Norwegian Ridgeback that Charlie confiscated from Mundungus last month. You may want to alert the Aurors to that. He'll need a Medi-witch or wizard to tend to it before it swells."

"Did any of the Weasley's have a port key tuned to any of the properties Sirius left you?"

"Mrs. Weasley had one to Grimmauld Place, Fred's went to Godric's Hollow, and Charlie had one that goes to Cliffhigh Hold in Dover."

"Very good. I'll have Alastor and Kingsley start the search. Try and get some rest you two. I'll contact you as soon as I hear anything."

"Alright, Headmaster. Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Harry, Severus."

"Goodnight, Headmaster. I do require a meeting with you tomorrow. It's rather urgent, so would you please clear some space in your schedule after my second class."

"Certainly, Severus. May I have a hint as to what it's about?"

"I've found a sizable crack in the foundation." Severus watched as a slightly alarmed look crossed Albus' face for a mere moment before his face left the fire with a pop.

Severus turned back to Harry, who was fidgeting beside him with worry, and once again dragged the younger man into his bedroom. Once they were situated in the bed again Severus looked at the distressed young wizard and did what he would do for his homesick first years. He gathered the almost hysterical boy into his arms and babble soothing nonsense into his ear. Harry started at the unexpected contact, but settled down and accepted whatr cor comfort Severus was willing to offer.

Normally Severus felt awkward holding his students as they wept or even offering words of comfort and those instances occurred in his office. Hin hin his bedroom, holding the son of his worst enemy, it wasn't as awkward, in fact it was quite pleasant. Severus spared a moment to think he was going insane before following the now sleeping wizard in his arms into oblivion.

Severus' alarm went off several momentser her his internal one woke him up. He shifted to free his arms and was surprised when Harry moved to accommodate his movements and helping free his arms. Severus sat up and looked closely at the young man beside him. Sleep did the boy some good, though his brow was furrowed in worry.

"Thanks, Professor, for last night. I'm glad I wasn't stuck in Gryffindor last night. Ron would have been freaking all night if he knew what my vision was about."

"You're welcome, Potter, but if you ever tell a living soul, I'll hex into oblivion." Severus promised and watched as those emerald eyes lit with laughter.

"No one would believe me."

"My Slytherins would."

"No they wouldn't. They wouldn't believe that you held me. Given our track record, if you were one of your students, would you believe it?"

"You've got a point, Mr. Potter." Severus didn't try to hide the smirk of amusement this conversation instilled. "I have a lot of work to do this morning so we'll have breakfast here and start immediately after. How are you at cleansing charms?"

"Mediocre. Sometimes they work perfectly and at other times they don't."

"Hold still then and I'll do it." Severus quickly cast the charms over both of them and then summoned a house-elf.

Both men changed again back to back and Severus noticed, again, with distaste the ragged, oversized clothes Harry put on.

"Are those clothes some ludicrous Muggle fashion statement?"

"No, they're my cousin's old clothes. My relations make me wear them." Harry stated with a dead tone and an absolutely blank face.

"They never bothered buying you clothes?"

"No clothes. No toys. Everything I received was worn and broken."

"Why didn't you buy yourself new clothes when you received your vault key?"

"They'd demand to know where I got the money for them. Once they found out that I have a vault of gold they'd try to seize all of it for themselves."

"That's understandable. You do understand that because the castle has nominated you as the next headmaster that you won't have to go back."

"It didn't cross my mind since they won't allow me to come back. They told me not to bother since I'm of age. I was more worried about finding a place to live after school was over."

"That won't be a problem now. You can't leave the castle for long periods of time. Once this bond loosens enough we'll go and find you some decent clothes."

"You'd blow your cover if you're seen shopping with me. Riddle would expect you to incapacitate anyone else with us and take me directly to him."

"I've got the feeling that the current potion he wants me to brew is intended for me." Severus stated baldly as they sat at the table and mindlessly began to eat. "He loves using a person's skills against them."

"Do you know how you can avoid the effects? I don't know if Noir can help you. He might be able to neutralize the poison but not the truth serum."

"I haven't found a way around the truth serum. The poison is easy enough to deal with. A pain potion mixed with Draught of the Living Death feigns a painful death quite easily." Harry looked thoughtful for a moment and Severus prepared to listen to some idiotic Gryffindor plan.

"Do the build up of something in your body help to counteract the effects of a potion? Sometimes in Muggle medicine the antibiotics and pain meds have to build up in the patient's system before having a positive effect."

To say Severus was surprised would have been an understatement. He was stunned. Given the boy's track record in his class he wouldn't have expected the boy to come up with a solution to the Order's biggest fear. He knew his mask was completely gone in this instance as his mind whirled to categorize the ingredients of the Veritaserum's counter agent looking for the most active one that wouldn't harm the body. He knew Albus was practically immune to the truth serum and he never was able to figure out why.

"That may work if I could figure out what the Headmaster eats that makes him invulnerable to the serum. I've never really paid attention to what the old man consumes other than those blasted lemon sherbets and drops." He watched as Harry turned his attention inward. He wondered if the boy knew what the old meddler ate.

"I can't remember what he likes to eat other than the sugar loaded stuff, but I know the house-elves would. Dobby!"

"Yes, Harry Potter, sir. What can Dobby do for you?" The energetic house-elf asked the instant he popped into the room.

"Could you tell what Professor Dumbledore's favourite foods are?"

"Oh yes, Dobby can. Professor Dumbledore likes mashed potatoes, roast beef, all sorts of breads, and all sorts of pasta, and pork chops."

"Damn, that doesn't help at all. Is there any sort of seasoning the Headmaster prefers?" Harry asked a small frown upon his face that made the house-elf redouble its efforts.

"The Headmaster loves garlic, especially when he has to go to the ministry. He says it's to aggravate the Minister." Severus' eyes widened and he knew there was a triumphant gleam in them.

"Lucius has managed to worm his way into several of those meetings Fudge has had with the Headmaster, Harry." A wicked smirk crossed his features as both the house-elf and Harry looked at him with wide-eyed and shocked expressions, though not for the reason Severus thought they were for. "I know he's slipped Veritaserum into the Headmaster's tea on a few occasions."

"So the garlic and his constant sugar high may be coe contributing factors?"

"It could be." Severus asked then turned to the house-elf. "How often during the course of the week would he eat garlic laden food when he isn't visiting the Ministry?"

"At all meals, sir. Dobby and the others make almost everything with garlic for the Headmaster, sir; we place them right in front of him."

"That's got to be it. We'll have to get Shacklebot and Tonks here. They both inhale garlic laden foods at the meetings. They'll be our guinea pigs for this."

"Thanks for your help, Dobby." Harry told the little elf, who squealed in delight and left in a crack of displaced air. "Do you think it's just the garlic or a combination of sugar and garlic?"

"I don't know it could be either way. It wouldn't be hard to fill them with sugar if it turns out to be both." Severus let his mind wander through the possibilities for several moments before realizing that time was passing quickly as he sat there idle. "We've got work to do so a m a move on, Harry." Again Severus noted the boy's startled look and wondered what he could have possible said that time to cause such a reaction. Then it hit him as he crossed the threshold of his private lab. He called the boy by his first name. Why did he do that? He didn't get a chance to ponder it further before Harry spoke up.

"Is there anything I could do to help?"

"Since you claimed to brew your own Dreamless Sleep, you can refill the infirmary's supply."

"Hany any batches do I need to make?"

"Three. I'll be finishing off Lupin's Wolfsbane and starting the potion for the Dark Lord."

They spent the rest of the morning working in silence and Severus kept a weathered eye on Harry's progress with the sleeping draught as he added the necessary ingredients to the Wolfsbane potion to tag their spy or the real Lupin. Severus was surprised to see the efficiency of movement the boy had while he brewed the potion assigned to him. Through the five years he spent as Severus' potions student he never saw the boy work like this. Severus spared a moment to regret that he may have ruined any number of apprenticeship worthy students with his methods. Perhaps in the future, if they had one, Harry and he could work together in the lab. Harry definitely is showing signs of talent now that he's out of the classroom environment.

Before either man knew it was time for Severus' first class of the day. Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw third years were that class and they quickly cleaned up their work spaces before heading for the main room. Harry quickly changed into his animagus form and allowed Severus to drape him around his neck. Severus left is quarters with his usual brisk stride that allowed his robes to billow as he stalked down the hallways.

Severus stormed into the class room and glared at the assembled students, who started to make a ruckus at the sight of Potter's Animagus form draped across his shoulders and around his neck. Severus' icy gaze settled them down quickly enough once it swept through the class.

My, my, even in another form you're a constant disruption. What am I going to do with you? Severus thought at the serpentine form of Noir.

It's hardly my fault is it? They're not used to you having any form of ornamentation, living or otherwise. As to what you're going to do with me? I haven't a clue other than tutoring me so I don't fall behind in my classes while I'm stuck with you.

Brat. Try not to do anything damaging today.

No guarantees, Professor. If my instincts say you're in danger my form's going to take action, whether we like it or not. I believe my form has an anti-venom for every venom, except the bonding one.

Try to warm me first if you can. There are always alternative measures to take.

I can only promise to do my best.

It'll have to do. Now get out of my head so I can teach.

Severus suppressed a shiver at the mental laughter that rang in his head and then turned his complete attention to his class. Four exploded cauldrons and three severe burns later, the class was over and Severus' temper was raging and both houses were down seventy points due to their inattentiveness. Severus was surprised the injuries weren't life threatening. The foolish brats paid more attention to Noir than their work. In return for their lack of concentration he was going to occupy their weekend with a difficult task.

"Since you dunderheads can't concentrate on your work due to your unseemly curiosity, you will write a three foot essay on the Egyptian Temple Guardian Snake, its venoms and their uses. I expect it to be on my desk for Tuesday's class. Now get out of my sight."

Oh that was cruel. There aren't any books in the school library on the Guardian Snake. You'll have three foot parchments on how they couldn't find anything.

How did you get your information on your form if there wasn't any in the library?

I got Mundungus to find me some books in Knockturn Alley. He was only able to unearth three books on Magical Snakes and they had practically no information on my form. There was tons of information on Nagini's species though.

So how do you know you have anti-venoms?

I practiced on rats, mice and birds when ever I could escape my relations and body guards during the day or when ever Hedwig had time to catch them for me in the evenings.

I see. I've the N.E.W.T. level seventh years next so pay attention. I believe the parents of some of them will request they get their hands on you by whatever means necessary.

I thought that might be the case. He was livid when I bonded with you. Riddle is a lot like my cousin when he doesn't get what he wants. I can picture the tantrum now.

Try not to maim anyone. I don't want a trail of bodies behind me.

Is it wrong to protect you for a change?

Severus didn't have an answer for that, but all all touch of warmth formed deep inside him when he realized, mainly through Noir's empathy, that Harry did notice those times Severus saved or tried to save his life. From the emotion overtones he seemed to be receiving from the boy, his efforts were appreciated. Now that was different for Severus and something he longed for from someone other than Albus. Severus packed away that ball of warmth to bask in later and turned his attention to the seventh years entering the room. The N.E.W.T. class consisted of twelve students, six of which were from Slytherin. The rest were made of four Ravenclaws, two Hufflepuffs and one Gryffindor. The Slytherins were, Blaise Zabini, Draco Malfoy, Pansy Parkinson, Millicent Blustrode, Theodore Nott and Stefan Zorkev, a transfer student from Durmstrang. The Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs were barely memorable with the exception of Terry Boot and, of course, the lone lion was Hermione Granger, who was making top marks in the class, much to Draco's disgust.

The class went smoothly, as all his N.E.W.T. classes did, and quietly. There were a couple of curious looks at Noir from most of the students, but the glances from the Slytherins were another matter entirely. Parkinson looked disgusted, Zabini and Zorkev were indifferent, Blustrode looked longingly at the Noir, and Malfoy and Nott looked on with gleeful and calculating expressions. Severus kept a weathered eye on those students in his house as he stalked between the workstations critiquing their work as he went. There were no mishaps and soon enough the class was almost over. Severus felt Noir testing the air around each of the students and gave each a probing glance as Severus made his way past their desks. Noir became slightly agitated when ever Severus neared Malfoy or Nott's table, so Severus myet yet another point to keep a close eye on those two.

"Your assignment, due Monday, is to research the potions that build upon today's. I want three feet and you must detail the additions or substitutions and what effects they have on the results. Hand in your assignments and leave."

One by one the students left a sample of their potion and the essay due today on his desk. Each student took the opportunity to take a closer look at Noir before leaving the room. Blustrode gave a longing look at the sleek black cobra before leaving. Nott didn't take a glance upwards as he left. He must have noticed Noir's Nasty looks at him and Malfoy and decided to act another time.

Draco Malfoy sauntered up to his desk with his sample and scroll held loosely in his fingers. He set them down quickly and moved closer to Severus. Severus wat the the boy's movements closely without appearing to do so. As Malfoy moved his hands Severus caught a glimpse of something wet on the young wizard's hands and began to move away as fast as he could. Draco moved faster still. The boy must have taken a speed increasing potion before class ended. Severus could move quickly enough to avoid the boy's touch. He could smell the fumes from the poison coating the boy's hands and knew he didn't have the antidote for it on hand. He completely forgot about Noir and his abilities and before he could dodge around his desk, the younger Malfoy lunged towards him and the cobra struck. Malfoy immediately collapsed and his falling body dragged the snake with him. Severus hoped Noir didn't hit the boy with anything lethal. Despite the boy's attempt to kill him, most likely on his father's orders, he was still fond of him. The boy was the closest thing he would have to a child of his own.

Severus conjured a stretcher, while Noir resituated himself on his perch, and levitated the unconscious boy onto it. He quickly checked his pockets to make sure his bottle of Veritaserum was there and made his way through the Halls to the Hospital Wing. Noir didn't say a word, but anger radiated through their bond.

I hope you didn't hit him with anything fatal.

I don't think I did. I felt your feelings towards him, but I won't know until Madam Pomfrey looks him over. If it�s a poison I'll reverse it immediately.

Alright. I've forgotten how fast a snake can move. I barely saw your strike.

I wasn't conscious of the strike. It was all Noir's instincts coming to the forefront. Malfoy tasted odd just before I struck. Do you know why?

I suspect he took some speed enhancing potion, but I'm not sure which one.

Ah, that may explain the odd taste.

I've got the distinct feeling that my spying days are over.

They may have been over the minute the castle made it past your barriers.

That could be, but with the others longing to get their hands on you just to please the Dark Lord, means my time is short. I feel safe to blame this mess on the castle.

Noir's only response was the bubbly feeling of laughter in his mind accompanied by the snake's hissing equivalent. They made it to the infirmary without encountering any of the students. He called for Poppy the moment he entered the wing and settled Draco on the nearest bed. As he informed the Medi-witch of the situation Albus entered the wing. No one noticed the huge snake that entered the infirmary just behind the Headmaster.

"Severus, what happened?" Albus asked with a worried frown upon his face.

"Mr. Malfoy tried to poison me in order to steal my familiar. If it wasn't for Noir's speed I wouldn't have made it."

"Poppy, will Mr. Malfoy be alright?"

"He's going to survive. The snake injected him with a sleep inducing venom, which will wear off in a couple of hours, and another venom that blocks his magic. Until the anti-venom for the second is administered he's going to be a squib."

"Can you reverse the condition, Noir?" Albus asked the snake in a grim tone.

Tell him I can, but until Malfoy proves he isn't a threat or when Riddle is gone, I won't do so.

Fair enough. "He says he can, but won't until Mr. Malfoy or the Dark Lord are no longer a threat. I happen to agree. I would rather see him out of this war, Albus. Give him to Argus as an assistant. He needs a dose of humility to temper his arrogance."

As they continued talking Minerva and Filius entered the ward. They quickly looked at Severus and the still sleeping Malfoy before turning their attention to Albus. He quickly caught them up on events.

"Filius, please gather another teacher and guard Mr. Malfoy. Do not allow him to leave or anyone to visit him."

"Certainly, Albus." The tiny wizard quickly left.

"Anyone, but Lupin," Severus said quickly. "He needs to take his Wolfsbane." The dwarfish teacher stopped and nodded his agreement before continuiut out of the ward.

Once Filius left, Albus motioned Minerva and Severus into a corner of the room. He quickly placed privacy charms around them before turning to Severus.

"Severus, you mentioned an information leak in the Order." Severus felt Noir's interest and he stroked the snake's head before answering Albus.

"I had a conversation with Potter last night and it leads me to believe that Lupin is a polyjuiced imposter."

"Are you sure, Severus?" Minerva asked looking quickly between Noir and Severus.

"I'm positive that the Lupin teaching is not our were-wolf. What Potter revealed to me last night doesn't fit with my last conversation with Lupin at Head Quarters." Severus replied while doing his best to calm Noir's distress.

"What should we do, Albus?" Minerva asked, concern coming off her in waves.

"I've doctored the Wolfsbane to turn the drinker green. If our Lupin isn't green then we have proof. If he is then we need to check for the Imperious curse."

"Minerva, would you go down to Severus' lab and get our suspects dose of Wolfsbane?"

"Right away, Albus." Minerva turned to do Albus' bidding, but paused to comfort Noir before she left.

"Severus, Minerva and I decided that it would be in Harry's best interest to apprentice him. This way the bond won't interfere with his schooling."

"That may be for the best." Inside him something cheered for the knowledge that the boy was no longer a student. He did his best to throttle it into submission. "Shall we get into position for the unveiling?"

"Yes, we should. Do you have Veritaserum available?"

"Yes, Albus. I'll slip into his goblet if you'll create a diversion."

Albus removed the charms and wards before turning to leave the wing. Before either man moved a step towards the door, a huge and very familiar snake blocked their path. Severus tensed in apprehension and Noir moved down his body to the floor. He kept his tail firmly wrapped around his ankle so the bond wouldn't yank them about. Noir began to talk with the snake and Severus jumped as Nteletelepathically relayed their conversation.

Nagini, what brings you to my nest?

My master has betrayed me and I search for a new one.

Who do you search for?

Harry Potter. He is the only other wizard who can speak to me. Nagini tested the air around her and rose up in surprise. You are Harry Potter!

Yes, Nagini.

"Albus, Nagini knows Noir's identity."

"What does she want, Severus?"

"She wishes to become Harry's familiar."

"She may stay as long as she promises not to harm the students and staff."

Nagini nodded her agreement and returned her attention to Noir.

There are two things to tell you. One He has managed to put a spy amongst you.

We are aware of the intruder.

Excellent, Noir. The second is the next time he summons his faithful, Severus will be executed by means of the potion he was to brew.

It seems I was right, Noir.

Yes you were, Severus. Are you going to be safe with all the Death Eaters' offspring here?

I'll be fi I'l I'll strengthen the wards on our quarters as soon as we return.

Our?

Might as well be. I don't know how long this bond will last and honestly you require a lot of counseling to get you through your trauma.

If you insist. Severus could feel his reluctance to discuss his relatives and their treatment.

Besides, it's nice to have someone else to share my quarters with. I wasn't expecting to like it or getting used to it so quickly. Noir's response was a burst of happiness.

"Albus, the Dark Lord knows I'm a spy. He was planning on killing me the next time he summoned me."

"We'll take the appropriate measures for your safety. Let's head down to the Great Hall and catch Voldemort's spy. Shall we?"

"After you, Albus."

Noir worked his way back around Severus' neck as the followed Albus through the hallsaginagini melded into the shadows as fol followed in their wake. Severus noticed with relief that the arrived at the Great Hall before the impostor. Severus had time to add the Veritaserum to the goblet while Fawkes appeared to distract the students and less trustworthy staff. Albus walked over to several teachers and whispered instructions to them.

They didn't have long to wait for their suspect to arrive and he wasn't green. Everyone settled into their seats, acting as if nothing was wrong. The meal began with a gesture from Albus and everyone dug in. Severus watched out of the corner of his eye as "Lupin" drank from the doctored goblet. Noir and Nagini watched closely as well and Severus had a hard time blocking the feelings Noir was inadvertently sending through their bond. After a few moments the imposter's eyes went glassy and his mouth slightly slack. Albus noticed also and moved next to their victim.

"Who are you?" Albus asked fury very visible in his normally twinkling eyes.

"Bellatrix Lestrange."
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Hex-Crossed Lovers