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The Headmaster's Wife	By : Mrs_HH Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Snape/Hermione Views: 96752 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 23
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, nor the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 55
- 56
- 57
Suspicions
Madam Puddifoot was not amused. The stout witch stood by the window, net curtains twitching as she glared at the Aurors who were standing outside her tearooms. They may have been necessary, but they had severely dampened her mid-morning takings. However, as Hermione Granger ordered another pot of English Breakfast tea for two and more toasted teacakes, her annoyance was slightly abated.
In fact, this was the third pot of tea and second round of toasted tea cakes that Hermione had ordered since she and her mother had arrived at the doily-infested teashop just after it opened that morning.
The walk to Hogsmeade had been cold and damp, and the two curly-haired women sat talking, huddled by the fire. Michael Granger had decided to stay at the castle to discuss practical matters with Severus. He'd told the headmaster that he would never get a word in edgeways anyway, and whilst Severus had a degree of empathy, he wished Michael would stop making excuses to avoid spending time with his daughter.
"I must say it was good of Severus to let you take the day off," Helen Granger mused, slathering butter onto her freshly acquired teacake.
Hermione was also busy with spreading her toasted delight, inhaling the comforting smell of melted butter, spice, and fruit. "Well, I've not got the whole day off. Between Minerva and Draco, he's arranged cover for my lower year lessons. But I have to take my O.W.L lesson this afternoon because he's the only one qualified to do it, and he has an appointment with Poppy. But Minerva has invited you and Dad for afternoon tea whilst I'm teaching."
Helen furrowed her brow, focusing on Hermione's revelation that Severus had an appointment. "Poppy? She's the school doctor, isn't she?"
"Well, she's the school matron," Hermione corrected. "She's a Mediwitch, which is a bit like a nurse, but they can prescribe complex potions and treatments without referring to a Healer."
Helen nodded, trying to get her head around this new world which was not dissimilar to the Muggle world if you took it at face value, but incredibly different once you peeked under the surface. Ever since discovering that their little girl was not strange but magical, she and her husband had been fascinated by the wizarding world. They would listen as Hermione told them stories which seemed so fantastical and yet in the last week, they experienced things that were even more bizarre than they could ever have imagined.
"Is he alright?" she asked her daughter, wanting to show that she was concerned about the man who was more than likely to become her son-in-law.
"Yes," Hermione replied, trying to sound unconcerned. "He needs regular check-ups because of the injuries he suffered when he was punished by Voldemort and the snake attack. He's alright though."
However, a mother can always sense when their child is hiding something, and certainly when their child is worried or upset. "Are you sure?"
Hermione nodded, but Helen remained unconvinced. "You know you can tell me anything, 'Mione."
"I know, but there's nothing to tell. It's just a check-up."
"And I know when you're telling me porky pies, young lady."
Taking a quick bite of butter slathered cake, Hermione couldn't help but chuckle at her mother's turn of phrase. However, she had no intention of telling Helen the real reason why Severus was seeing Poppy. Whilst she appreciated that her mum was making an effort regarding their relationship, the subject of their concern was probably a step too far at this stage.
Determined to get to the bottom of what was concerning her daughter, Helen tried a slightly different tack. "That scar on Severus' neck, is that from the snake bite? I didn't notice it when we were in Australia. Does it give him a lot of problems? It looks rather nasty."
Hermione swallowed her tasty morsel, sipped her tea, and took a deep breath. "Yep and believe me, it looks a hell of a lot better now. It was horrible, Mum. It's still quite rough, but the redness has gone. The only real problem it causes is that it's really sensitive sometimes. And you probably wouldn't have seen it in Australia because he usually hides it with a charm when he wears Muggle clothing. Here, he wears higher collars or a cravat that cover it, but given the chaos of last night, he obviously forgot to hide it."
"Yes, our arrival was rather unscheduled," Helen mumbled, recalling the events of the night before. It had probably been one of the scariest and most eye-opening nights of Helen and Michael Granger's lives and the older woman shuddered when she thought of what could have happened. "I suppose you and Severus were looking forward to a nice quiet night together after being apart."
Hermione put her hand on her mother's reassuringly. "It doesn't matter, Mum. I'm just glad you were able to interrupt us." She just hoped that Helen was imagining her snuggled up on the sofa with Severus rather than what they were actually doing―and it certainly wasn't quiet.

The night before
Hermione collapsed, exhausted from her vigorous exertions, onto Severus' chest. She lazily nuzzled his neck, chuckling softly as he pulled against his wrist restraints and cautioned her teasingly against falling asleep before releasing him. She'd mumbled that he could do it himself and sighed as a strong pair of arms wrapped around her. Her sated body began melting against her lover when she felt him tense.
"What the fuck..." was all she heard before Severus unceremoniously moved from underneath her, pulled on his trousers and with wand in hand, flung open the bedroom door.
Confused, Hermione lifted her head and heard Narcissa tell her partner something that made her heart jump. "Severus, I am so sorry, but there was an attack..."
Hermione had never dressed so quickly.
The headmaster had dressed equally fast in his trademark ensemble as Narcissa gave a brief overview of the events that had just transpired at Severus' Mayfair flat. Deciding to forgo his cravat on this occasion and leaving his frock coat unbuttoned, he requested that the blonde witch go to his office. Snaking his arm around an obviously shocked Hermione, they Apparated into Draco's chambers, where his godson had never been more grateful to be dating Luna Lovegood.
After his mother had abandoned him to entertain Hermione's parents, Draco took a deep breath and turned to the genuinely confused and―he noted―very scared couple. He tried to find something to say but found himself struck dumb. Thankfully, Luna managed to save his sudden social awkwardness as she walked into the living room, dressed in the spare pair of pyjamas that she kept in his bedroom.
Remembering his manners, Draco gestured to his witch. "Luna, allow me to introduce you to―"
"―Hermione's parents. You look very well," the bubbly witch announced, holding out her hand in greeting. "I don't know if Hermione ever talked about me, but I'm Luna...Luna Lovegood. Would you like some tea or perhaps something stronger?"
The older couple stared―dumbfounded―at the young woman who stood wearing blue and white pyjamas with cartoon sheep plastered all over them. The two looked as though they were both wondering when they were going to wake from the most bizarre nightmare that they'd ever had.
Seconds later, things became even stranger when, out of nowhere a familiar, deep voice greeted, first the owner of the rooms that they were stood in, and then themselves. However, when they turned to look at the source of the voice, they were greeted by the sight of their only daughter clinging to his arm, looking as panic-stricken as they felt.

Slowly, Severus manoeuvred himself until Hermione stood front of him, hands resting on her shoulders as his thumbs massaged them reassuringly.
The silence in the room was stifling as Luna tapped Draco on the arm and jerked her head towards his bedroom.
Having noticed that the Ravenclaw head girl was where she should not be, the headmaster's glare left her and his godson under no illusion that he would be speaking to them later. However, now was not the time, and as the door to Draco's bedroom closed quietly, Hermione finally found her voice.
The first words to fall from her mouth were an apology as she threw herself at her startled parents. Immediately, Helen's arms encompassed her daughter in a desperate embrace. Michael instinctively wrapped his arms around both his now sobbing wife and Hermione. However, once he realised what he was doing, he removed his arm from Hermione as if he'd been stung.
He felt Severus' glare burning into the back of his head. He patted Hermione tentatively on the back and squeezed his wife's shoulder before turning to face the younger man. Michael wasn't sure why he removed his arm from around his daughter, but he'd never felt comfortable when the two women in his life began crying.
Severus also looked ill-at-ease at the sight of the two blubbering women, but knowing that Hermione was in good hands, he decided that it was time to seek out Narcissa. The events which had led to his witch being reunited with her parents sooner than expected needed to be ascertained promptly.
Knowing that his presence was unlikely to be missed, the headmaster took his leave and was about to Apparate when Michael called out, "May I come with you, Severus?"
Looking at the older man, Severus nodded curtly before turning on his heel and walking to his office instead.

"I am surprised that you did not wish to stay with your wife and daughter. You are aware that Hermione will interpret it as a snub," Severus commented as the two men walked towards the his office.
The torches in the dark corridors flared into life as Severus approached each one, something that Michael Granger found strangely impressive. Despite knowing that his daughter was a witch, he hadn't witnessed much magic as Hermione was restricted at home and what he'd seen during visits to Diagon Alley had almost seemed tame. He'd never actually seen powerful magic and this was perhaps one of the reasons why he was having so many issues with what Hermione had done to him and his wife.
"Probably, but to be honest, when those two start sobbing together I may as well not exist. I really thought I'd finally begun to understand my wife, but once we'd had Hermione...the slightest sniffle and Helen was fussing around her. If she grazed her knee, I'd find Helen in the kitchen sobbing because her baby was hurt. And then there was the whole debacle over her being a witch and coming here. I suspected having a teenage daughter would be hard, and I could cope when it was just one of them crying. But when it's both...well, they have each other and I feel such a spare part."
"I must admit that I find it hard to know how to comfort Hermione at times," Severus confessed. "Chocolate usually works."
"She is her mother's daughter," Michael chuckled.
"And her father's," Severus reminded him casually.
The older man stopped in his tracks, watching the dark wizard as he continued on until he realised he was walking alone. "I do know that. It's just hard to accept that my little girl is capable of doing such a ruthless and cruel thing."
Severus' gave Hermione's father a wry smile. "She is more than capable of such decisive actions and as I have previously explained, you may consider what she did ruthless and cruel but compared to the alternative, what she did saved your life."
"Helen said that she was captured by these Death Eaters."
"She was."
"Do you know anything about it?"
"Only what she's told me, and I am not at liberty to..."
"I understand you do not wish to break her confidence. I am beginning to see how much you respect her. I suppose I'll have to ask her myself."
Severus did not respond at first. Instead, he gave a curt nod before gesturing that they should keep walking. "Hermione means the world to me. All I ask is that you do not cause her any more pain than she already feels over what she had to do because father or not, I will bring you to account."
Michael huffed indignantly. "I thought it was my job to issue the warnings."
"When you have made peace with your daughter then feel free to issue as many warnings as you see fit," Severus informed him nonchalantly.
"You'll ignore them, I suppose."
Severus shrugged dismissively. "Only the ones that go without saying."

Michael's brow furrowed as Severus led him up another corridor towards a seemingly dead end, only for his eyebrows to move in the opposite direction as the statue guarding the wall bowed its head slightly to the headmaster. It then began to slide to reveal a staircase. It was like being in a seventies Hammer Horror film, but marginally safer, he hoped.
Narcissa jumped, and every portrait headmaster or headmistress―apart from Dumbledore, who seemed to be asleep―departed their frames as Severus flung open his office door and yelled, "What the fuck happened?!"
For once, Narcissa's hormonal state bested her and a single tear slid down her cheek as she remained seated in an armchair by the fire. Michael Granger cautiously sat down in the other chair as Severus began pacing before the fireplace, anger pouring from him.
"Everything was fine when I departed," he commented almost to himself. He felt guilty for assuming that Hermione's parents would be safe and inwardly analysed the situation whilst berating himself for not being more diligent in their protection. "The wards were in place. How could this happen?"
"I...I don't know," Narcissa simpered, accepting the handkerchief Severus thrust at her and twisting it around her fingers. "All was well. We enjoyed a light supper and then the wards began to reverberate. I ushered Helen and Michael to the fireplace, preparing them for evacuation. I expected Pius to be at home, but he wasn't there. I was in the process of calling his office when I heard Bombarda being yelled on the other side of the door. I managed to raise a shield to ward off the Incarcerous that was aimed at us. They tried again, but I managed to Stupefy them."
The headmaster stopped pacing. "They?" he roared. "Who were they? How many were there?"
"Severus, please calm down," Narcissa implored, feeling less than composed, but it was only when Michael reiterated her request that the angry wizard took notice.
Fists clenched tightly at his side, Severus took a deep breath before relaxing a little and pinching the bridge of his nose. "My apologies, Narcissa. I know this is not your fault and that you ensured Michael and Helen's safety, but I am utterly bemused by these events."
"You'll be even more bemused when you discover who it was that broke through the wards."
Severus' brow furrowed in anticipation.
"It was Savage."
"Savage?" Severus shook his head in disbelief. "But he's one of Pius' Senior Aurors. He's been part of Hermione's escort, for fuck's sake."
"I...I know," Narcissa whispered.
"I don't know if this is relevant," Michael piped up, unsure how his contribution would be received, "but there was something not quite right with him."
Severus' eyebrow twitched. "How so?"
Michael cleared his throat. "The phrase, 'the lights were on, but nobody was home,' springs to mind."
Severus considered this before muttering, "He was Imperiused? Fuck!" This information enraged Severus further as he thumped the heel of his palm against the mantelpiece. "Where's Pius?"
Narcissa gave a slight shrug.
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"Just that: I don't know. When I arrived here, I finally managed to call his office and was informed that he'd left forty-five minutes ago, which would have been just before the attack. I called home again and Mitzy said he still hasn't been home. I don't know where he is."
Severus' eyes bored into her for a moment, deciding against probing Narcissa's mind. However, realising that he had all the information he was likely to get at this time, he stalked over to his desk, slumped down heavily in his chair, and folded his arms petulantly.
The awkward silence was palpable. Narcissa kept dabbing the corner of her eyes, sniffing softly. Michael was looking around the headmaster's office, convinced that the painting of a white-bearded man that he vaguely recognised had moved. Wondering when it would be appropriate to restart the conversation, he turned to Severus, who was staring pointedly at the fireplace as though willing something to happen. He didn't need to wait long as the flames died down, and the panicked voice of Pius Thicknesse rang out.
"Severus, are they with you?"
Severus' response was rather cutting. "Yes, no thanks your Aurors."
Knowing that he couldn't avoid the inevitable rough ride from Severus, Pius sighed. "I'm coming through."
Before the green flash of light had died down, Pius was kneeling before Narcissa, one hand on her belly, the other on the back of her head as he kissed her desperately. "Darling, thank Circe, you are unhurt. You are both well?"
Narcissa nodded. "I'm fine; we're fine," she told him, placing her hand over his and squeezing it gently.
After pressing a kiss to his fiancée's forehead, Pius stood and turned towards Michael Granger, his hand extended in greeting. "My sincerest apologies. Are you and..." A wave of panic swept over him. "Where's Helen?"
Michael accepted the tall wizard's hand cautiously. "She is with our daughter," he replied, looking over at Severus for what could be construed as his approval. "I wanted to find out more about the situation whilst Helen and Hermione sobbed over each other."
The Head of Magical Law Enforcement snorted softly. "Yes, yes, of course," he said before turning towards the headmaster, ready to face his wrath. "Severus, I..."
"Your Aurors were supposed to be guarding them," Severus spat out. "No one was supposed to know they were there. No one was supposed to know who they were guarding and no one was supposed to be able to get past the wards save we three," he said, gesturing angrily between himself, Pius, and Narcissa.
"I know," Pius agreed, eager to impart the facts. "However, I thought it wise for Savage and Lawson, as the senior Aurors, to be made aware of the situation. I realise that I should have consulted you, but―"
Banging a fist down on his desk, the furious wizard yelled "―too fucking right you should have! Of all the thoughts you have ever had, Pius, that one must go down as an abject failure."
Pius watched as Severus rose from his seat and began to stalk towards him. "Severus, I..."
Grabbing Pius by the collar, the headmaster growled, "No! You do not play with the safety of my family without consulting me first."
Both Michael and Narcissa's eyes widened, not only at the scene before them, but at the words which had fallen from Severus' mouth with such ease.
However, once Severus had realised what he'd said, he was unrepentant. Hermione was his family, the Grangers were her family and by extension, they were also his.
Releasing Pius, Severus took a step back to regain his composure. "Now, where is that traitorous bastard, Savage? Michael said that he seemed to be displaying the effects of an Imperius and I want to rip his mind apart until I find who―"
"―He's dead," Pius interjected.
"What do you mean?"
Pius exhaled forcefully. "Oh, you know, lack of breath, lying on the floor no longer breathing."
Severus growled at Pius' glib comment. "How?"
"He was found at the bottom of the stairs―death by Avada. Fisher is also dead, Lawson is missing but Burke is still alive."
Severus resumed pacing in front of the fireplace. "Where's Burke now? I want to speak to him."
"So do I," Pius said, moving to stand by his witch and squeezing her shoulder reassuringly as he noticed that she was dabbing her eyes again. "However, he's unconscious in St. Mungo's under guard."
Severus snorted. "Oh, how reassuring!"
Ignoring Severus' last remark, Pius pressed on. "He was the one who raised the alarm. By the time we arrived, he was barely conscious. However, he reported that Lawson had seen a black-cloaked figure moving in the shadows beyond what would have been the wards. The alarm protocol on this mission was to contact my office upon noticing anything suspicious."
"At least he followed the protocol," Michael offered, quailing slightly as Severus' eyes flicked towards him.
"If no one had prior knowledge of the mission then the alarm needn't have been raised," Severus groused. Realising that his response was a little uncharitable, he added, "But I take your point, Michael. At least something worked."
However, Severus' reasonable tone vanished as the focus of his ire returned to Pius. "So how long do they think it will be before I can speak to Burke?"
Sighing, Pius pinched the bridge of his nose. "Severus, given your relationship with Hermione―"
"―Don't give me that bullshit," Severus hissed. "You had no such qualms about my interrogating her ex-boyfriend after the Ministry fiasco."
Pius shook his head. "There is a world of difference between Ronald Weasley and―"
A thought sprang to the forefront of Severus' mind. "Have you heard from him?"
"Who?"
"Weasley."
"No," Pius admitted, his brow furrowed. "Perhaps Arthur has."
Severus' lips pursed. "Arthur would have informed us immediately, which leads me to suspect that Ronald is still being excluded from Yaxley's plans."
Pius shrugged. "Assuming that it is Yaxley."
Severus closed his eyes, dragging his hand down over his face. "It doesn't take a genius to work out that he's behind this. The attempt on my life at Spinners End failed and look at his reaction when he saw me at Lucius and Narcissa's party. The question is, how did he find out about where the Grangers would be staying? And where the fuck is this Lawson?"
"I don't know, but it is possible that we have been infiltrated," Pius admitted dejectedly. "However, I find it hard to believe. All of my Aurors go through rigorous training or come highly recommended. I have no reason to suspect any of them unless they are using Polyjuice, of course."
"Of course, you find it hard to believe," Severus quipped. "In an ideal world, we wouldn't be thinking this but it may have escaped your notice that this is not an ideal world and at the moment it is becoming increasingly dangerous. And what do you mean some of your Aurors come highly recommended?"
Swallowing thickly, Pius explained that Lawson had come with the highest references from the US ministry.
Narcissa's hand slipped into his as she noticed the venom in Severus' eyes.
Pius felt his spine freeze as Severus turned to him. "I beg your pardon?"
"He was born here, but his father―also an Auror―was sent on attachment to the US Ministry in the early eighties. Thomas consequently joined the US Aurory in the nineties. His parents returned to the UK in 1993 when his mother became ill. Her condition worsened and in 1995 Amelia received a request from him to join the UK Aurory so that he could be closer to his parents. He came with the highest references."
Taking a sharp breath, Severus exhaled slowly. "Having never been a great believer in coincidence, I cannot help but wonder if there is some significance in these dates."
Narcissa paled. "Surely you don't mean to suggest that his family were followers. Lawson is not a name I recognise."
"Neither do I, but unless they were Inner Circle or second tier we wouldn't necessarily have known them," came Severus' exasperated response.
Michael Granger had been looking between the two wizards and witch, feeling more and more like a spare part in the conversation. And yet here was an opportunity to contribute, even if it did seem like stating the obvious. "Or it could simply be a coincidence."
Severus snorted, repeating the older man's words with soft resignation. "Or it could simply be a coincidence."
"It goes without saying that I will be investigating Lawson's background further and I assure you that I will leave no stone unturned," Pius stated, trying to regain some of his stoicism.
Severus' latest sarcastic comment was preparing to leave the tip of his tongue when the grate sprang into life.
"Headmaster, is the boss there?"
Severus recognised the voice to belong to Stebbins, another of the Senior Aurors who had accompanied him on numerous occasions.
"He is. Come through."
Before the Auror had chance to gain his bearings, Pius asked urgently, "What news?"
"Burke is awake, sir."
"And?" Pius and Severus asked in unison.
"He's still groggy, but he's spoken a little more," Stebbins informed them. "He said Lawson noticed something moving in the shadows and went to investigate with Savage. Savage returned alone, killed Fisher, and then stunned him. That is all he knows."
"Thank you, Stebbins. Can you call in all senior Aurors and inform them that I require their presence tomorrow morning at eight sharp? That will be all," Pius said in dismissal.
With a curt nod, the Auror left whence he came and, for a moment, silence reigned before Severus muttered, "Well, a number of scenarios present themselves―"
"―All quite disturbing," Pius concluded.
Pius was about to elaborate, but Michael, feeling a little more emboldened, piped up with his own theories. "Well, I know being a Muggle I don't know all the technical terms, but it seemed to me like Savage was hypnotised―or whatever you call it. So that leaves two options. The cloaked figure did it so that Savage would do all the dirty work, left a witness in the form of this Burke bloke, killed Savage and then kidnapped Lawson for added drama. Or there was no mystery person―Lawson made it up to create a diversion and send you guys on a wild goose chase, left a witness, killed Savage and then legged it."
Everyone else in the room seemed to be in agreement with Michael's conclusions.
"Well, now we know where Hermione gets it from," Narcissa chuckled ruefully, looking at Michael and Severus, the latter of whom folded his arms and smirked knowingly. "Now, it is late," Narcissa sighed sounding drained. Knowing that Severus needed to be alone, she suggested, "Unless there is anything more to add, I think you and I should take our leave, darling."
Pius nodded before turning to Michael. "I have assigned a discreet watch on your main residence, just in case there is an issue."
"Thank you," Mr Granger said sincerely. "I'm not sure where we will be―"
"―Here," Severus stated emphatically. "You will be staying here with Hermione and myself until we can ensure safe and suitable arrangements for you to stay at another property or return to your own."
Michael looked at the man before him and given the determination in his black eyes, he knew that Severus would not take no for an answer.

"You're early," Madam Pomfrey proclaimed brusquely as the headmaster strode into the hospital wing. "Go through to my office. I will be with you once I've sorted out Miss Derwent."
Severus was so used to Poppy's manner that he didn't even bat an eyelid at being spoken to in such a way.
"Ah yes, Miss Derwent, how is your hand?" Severus enquired, stopping at the foot of the first-year Gryffindor's bed. Antonia Derwent was rapidly acquiring a similar reputation to Neville Longbottom's in his younger years with the number of classroom disasters and visits to the hospital wing that she was running up. "In future, one can only hope that you will listen to Professor Sprout when she tells you to not touch Moon Cactus flowers without gloves."
"Yes, Headmaster," the young witch said deferentially. "It really hurts, sir."
Severus smirked. "Indeed. Now, I believe that Professor Sprout has also assigned detention for your continued inability to follow instructions―a common complaint from all of your professors."
"Yes, Headmaster," Antonia mumbled in confirmation.
"In addition to your detention, then, I would like you to write Professor Granger an essay on the uses of Moon Cactus in Potions―two feet to be completed by Friday next."
The young student's eyes whipped up to look at Severus. "But, sir..."
"Pray I do not insist that you deliver three feet to myself by this Friday."
Antonia hung her head again, blinking rapidly as she looked into her lap and mumbled, "Yes, sir."
"I wish you a speedy recovery, Miss Derwent."
Feeling braver, she looked up to say, "Thank you," but the words just hung in the air as she saw his black robes disappearing into Madam Pomfrey's office.

"December 1971."
Severus' eyebrows tickled his hairline.
"December 1971," Poppy repeated as she sat down behind her desk. "That was when you were brought down here with a case of swollen hands due to handling Moon Cactus flowers without gloves."
Severus snorted softly. "So it was. The circumstances were slightly different as Potter threw a plant at me before I had a chance to put my gloves on, but the flowers do not differentiate between intentional or unintentional touch. It bloody hurts, which is why Miss Derwent needs to learn her lesson well."
A wry smile formed on the matron's lips. "Being cruel to be kind now, are we?"
"Now? I was not aware that I have modified my behaviour."
"Well, not much. You are certainly a little kinder and a little more tolerant these days."
Severus considered this for a moment before shrugging. "I can live with that."
"So can we," Poppy mumbled before asking, "now, what was it you came to see me about? Normally I have to threaten you at wand point to get you down here."
"Indeed."
For a moment, Severus shifted awkwardly on his chair before regaining his usual imposing demeanour; an act that was not lost on Poppy. "I would be grateful if you could look through my recent medical history―specifically any reports sent to you from St. Mungo's."
Confusion flitted across the matron's face. "Why St. Mungo's?"
Severus would have preferred to get through this appointment without too many questions being asked, but he knew with the person sitting before him, that was a totally unrealistic expectation. "The last time you carried out an extensive medical upon my person was when I came back from my first meeting with the Dark Lord after his return, and―"
"―Please, do not remind me," Poppy interrupted, raising her hands and shuddering as if to dispel the horrific image in her head.
Given Poppy's reaction, Severus was sure it had been a blessing that he had been dumped unconscious outside the castle gates, not awakening until two days later. "My apologies, Poppy, but as I was saying, that was the last time you carried out a full medical on my person, and you did not highlight the issue on which I require information. Since then, the only other time I have had in-depth attention was at St. Mungo's―"
"―And they may have picked up on this issue," Poppy concluded, Summoning Severus' not insignificant medical records. "So, what am I looking for?"
"Infertility," Severus muttered through clenched teeth.
Poppy's eyes grew wide with a combination of disbelief and sympathy. She'd known Severus since he was eleven years old and she knew, possibly better than most, that for all his immense courage, he was still the vulnerable little boy she once knew. She knew that for Severus Snape to come before her, asking about such a sensitive subject was yet another display of the backbone the man possessed.
She also never thought that discussion of this matter would ever be necessary. Yes, she had once held a flame for him―despite him being a fair few years younger than her―but she could not imagine him ever settling down until she'd seen him with Hermione.
"Of course," she said quietly and respectfully. "May I ask what has prompted your concern?"
"None of your business," Severus practically hissed through gritted teeth.
Simply nodding, the Mediwitch opened Severus' file to examine the entries from St Mungo's. It made her feel sick to the stomach to see the damage that Severus' body had suffered over the years and on the night Nagini attacked him. However, the brevity, with which he had recovered from his extensive injuries, had always baffled the healers.
Skimming page after page of notes, results and diagrams, Poppy's eyes widened as they fell on a brief line which confirmed the worst. Swallowing hard, she whispered, "Oh, Severus. I am so―"
"―You need say no more," Severus stated abruptly, standing to leave the office whilst fighting back the wave of negative emotion that threatened to engulf him.
"Severus, wait!"
There was an insistence in Poppy's tone which made him stop, whipping his head round to look at her.
"The information is scant. All it says is 'the patient has suffered trauma to the testicular area,' and then it just says, 'Probable infertility.' It doesn't state the level of damage or the kind of―"
"―It is irrelevant," the headmaster spat out with more emotion than intended, "and if delaying me further is a ploy to mother me―"
"Severus Snape, you are an infuriating bastard. This doesn't even say if the damage was caused by the venom or the Cruciatus. There may be a way to assist you if assistance is necessary. It mentions 'probable infertility,' which, the last time I checked, doesn't necessarily mean that you are infertile. Would you like me to carry out an examination now to try and establish the facts?"
The black-eyed wizard almost recoiled. "What?"
"Oh, come now, Severus. I've seen it all before, but we can schedule another appointment for you, and you can come in with Hermione if you feel that you need a chaperone," Poppy deadpanned. She was, from a professional point of view, being serious. However, privately she was laughing on the inside, knowing that Severus would be more affronted by that suggestion than he would be to just get on with the examination.
Severus' nose flared with anger and self-consciousness was reflected in his voice. "I do not want...what I mean is that there is no need for Hermione to attend. I wish to tell her the news in the privacy of our chambers rather than her hear it with you sat there looking piteously at me."
"I would not do that and you know it, young man," Poppy bit back with a little more vehemence than she intended. It seemed to have the desired effect though as Severus acquiesced to her carrying out the examination there and then.
"First of all, I need to ask you a few questions."
"Do you have to?" Severus grumbled.
"Yes. Now, any performance issues?"
"Pardon?"
"Severus, playing coy never suited you. Just answer the question."
"I've not had any complaints."
"By the smile on Hermione's face I should imagine not, but I mean do you have any issues regarding being able to perform? Can you achieve and maintain an erection when engaging in masturbation or intercourse?"
"Oh! Unless interrupted or very stressed, I can perform when the situation arises."
"To a satisfactory conclusion?"
Severus felt a little affronted. "Yes, of course, although occasionally it concludes a little sooner than intended."
"That's most likely stress or your age," Poppy mumbled, continuing to write down Severus' responses. "Amount? Has it changed?"
"Well, I've gone from nothing to two or three times a day."
"I didn't mean frequency, but again I can see why Hermione smiles so much. I mean the amount of ejaculate you produce. Has it changed since your attack?"
"Is this really necessary? Not that I am aware."
"Any pain? And before you say anything, I am not interested in your proclivities."
"No pain, and we're not into that," Severus informed her snidely.
Poppy did well to hide her amusement and after completing her notes, looked the surly wizard straight in the eye. "Alright, well that all seems to be in order. So, now to the physical examination," she continued, flicking her wand to draw a curtain around the cot that stood in the corner of the office. "Just drop your trousers and underwear and pop yourself up onto the bed. There is a sheet there so you can protect your modesty. Let me know when you're ready."
"Oh, fucking hell," Severus grumbled, stepping behind the curtain and disrobing, leaving only his shirt. When he was settled, he threw his arm over his eyes and proclaimed himself ready.
Smirking at her cantankerous patient, Poppy took her wand and pulled back the sheet, reassuring him that the diagnostic spell would not hurt. By the time Severus huffed a reply, Poppy had cast the spell and was staring at the floating results before her.
Her silence caused Severus to break his own. "That bad, is it?"
"No."
Taking a small amount of comfort in her monosyllabic response, the wizard asked, "So, is there any hope? Could something be done to―"
"No, nothing can be done."
With his arm still obscuring his eyes, Severus tensed and lifted his head off the bed slightly. "How can it not be that bad and―"
"―Nothing can be done, Severus, because according to the results of this diagnostic spell, there is nothing that needs to be done."
Slowly, Severus moved his arm to look at the floating image. "What do you mean, 'there is nothing that needs to be done'? Did St. Mungo's fuck up?"
"No," Poppy stated her bottom lip between her teeth, her brow furrowed. Pointing her wand at the appropriate area, she indicated, "This shows that there was damage, but it has been healed."
"How?"
"I've never actually witnessed this, but it does make sense," the matron mumbled distractedly.
Severus' curiosity was piqued. "Go on."
Taking a deep breath, Poppy pursed her lips. "When I was training, one of my colleagues told me about her Russian great-grandparents, whom her mother said were soulmates. She regaled stories about them sensing the other's emotions and communicating non-verbally, which seemed potentially annoying to me. However, she then said that because their soul magic was so strong they could heal minor injuries and lessen the effects of illness. Obviously they couldn't prevent the inevitable, but the fact that a couple's magic could do be so in tune that it could heal fascinated me.
"Now, like I say, I've never witnessed this myself―"
"―it does happen," Severus admitted quietly.
Whilst listening to Poppy, realisation began to dawn. Severus had started to wonder about the strange warmth he felt whenever Hermione began fussing him over a nicked finger or burnt hand, but he'd never given it much thought. He'd always been relatively quick to heal from injury, but assumed that being in better health had contributed to the even shorter healing times. However, his suspicions were reawakened a few weeks ago.
Poppy opened her mouth to speak, but her jaw snapped shut as she considered what to say. "Really?"
"Initially, I wasn't sure," Severus drawled. "There is a paucity of material regarding soul magic and bonds and all the information that I have managed to procure seems contradictory. It appears that each soul bond is different, but what I have established is that most couples seem to acquire either enhanced empathic or non-verbal communication skills.
"Now, you cannot deny that I should have died a few months ago. Hermione's potions may have stalled my demise, but I heard the Healers―I should still have died. However, they were baffled by a mysterious temperature that I was running which started two days after I was admitted to St. Mungo's."
"The first time Hermione visited you?"
"No, but it was the first time that she managed to touch me. She said that whenever she could she would hold my hand, but she never touched my injuries directly. Then within hours of what I suppose was the start of our relationship, she kissed my neck and I felt a warm tingling sensation along my scar. I remember her clearly telling me that it didn't look as red as it had before."
"Interesting."
"There have also been other instances where I've been injured in one way or another and when Hermione has touched me, there has been an unexplained heat and I healed remarkably quickly."
Poppy nodded in agreement. "I must admit that you did recover rather sooner than I'd expected from the incident at the Ministry."
"I thought perhaps it was an elemental gift that had been unleashed in Hermione by the Founder's bond. However, she sliced open her finger in the lab the other day, and I instinctively grabbed her hand so that I could help staunch the bleeding. I cleaned the wound and as I touched it, she informed me that my finger was hot and lo and behold the following morning you would have been hard-pressed to see where the cut had been."
Twisting her mouth in consternation, the older witch asked ponderously, "Well, I never. The question is, though, have you felt this unexplained heat when she's...how do I put this delicately?"
"You've just asked if I have issues maintaining an erection. You have no need to tread carefully. However, I shall save your blushes―the answer is yes."
Considering this carefully, Poppy tapped her quill against her lips, her eyes flashing with incredulity. "I find myself astonished," she flatly told Severus. "Injuries like this are unlikely to heal themselves. However, Hermione would not actually be able to touch the damaged area. And yet, considering the other occurrences where the two of you have healed yourselves, I believe this is the only logical explanation."
Severus muttered his agreement. "It has been suggested, by various sources, that our soul bond is strong, so perhaps it is strong enough that we don't need to directly touch the affected area."
"Possibly. And what are your thaumic levels?" Poppy enquired, knowing that Severus was incredibly powerful in his own right.
"When tested in September, I was level eight and Hermione seven."
"Crikey. And now?"
An arched eyebrow met Madam Pomfrey's question. "What do you mean 'and now?'"
"Severus, you've consummated your bond so your magic will have combined. Effectively you are part of each other now; your magical essence has been altered," Poppy scoffed, not quite believing that the headmaster had asked her to clarify her question. "Together you are more powerful."
Severus, of course, knew that consummating their bond had affected the castle because the blood oath he'd made when he became headmaster had altered, but it was then that a cold panic hit him.
"Poppy?"
Severus' uncertain tone riveted the matron's attention to him.
Swallowing thickly, the headmaster voiced the concern that had suddenly struck him. "Do you think it possible that it was not only my magical essence that was altered when we consummated our bond?"
Immediately Poppy knew what Severus meant and gasped. "I don't know, but did you brew her contraceptive before you―"
"―Yes. Shit! My apologies, Poppy, but I must go and―"
"I suggest flowers may soften the blow," Poppy told him in a motherly tone, "and make sure you brew another batch just to be on the safe side. As much as I love babies, given your position, I think it would not be looked upon too favourably if the Headmaster and one of his professors procreated before their engagement was announced."

Within moments of leaving Poppy's office, Severus had Apparated to Flos, the florists in Diagon Alley. The fact that he should be able to father a child was a relief, but the fact that he could be a father at this very moment had him in an inward panic. He was about to enter the shop when a familiar voice caught his attention.
"Severus, old chap," Arthur Weasley called as he bustled towards the headmaster. He was just returning to work after meeting Molly for lunch and was carrying a small string tied box. "Stroke of luck I caught you; was going to call you later, but it's probably better this way. Any chance you could pop by my office for a brew after you've bought whatever it is you need to atone for whatever it is that you've done?"
The amusement in Arthur's eyes soon dissipated and Severus realised that the older wizard Arthur had apparently heard about the events of the previous night and was concerned.
"That would be most welcome," Severus conceded. "I will join you shortly."
"Excellent," Arthur stated, his usual joviality returned. "Oh, and a word of advice. Mother-in-laws like small floral tokens as well, you know. Just thought I would share."
Watching the balding red-haired wizard stride off, Severus allowed the corner of his mouth to twitch before he finally entered the floral emporium to purchase one more bouquet than previously intended.

Following Flora's implacable advice, Severus was stepping out of the florists when a female voice called. "Professor Snape?"
Severus paused for a moment, his gaze falling on the petite witch whilst trying to place the older face to the younger student. Visions of violent explosions and hair turning purple sprang to mind. "Miss Williams or should I say Mrs...?"
"Spencer."
"Very well, Mrs Spencer," Severus drawled smoothly with a courteous nod of his head. "As I recall, we seemed to lose sight of you after you left Hogwarts. May I enquire what has been occupying your time since leaving school?"
The younger woman blushed slightly. Snape had never spoken to her so kindly before, and now she understood what some of her dorm mates had meant when they said that he could've talked the knickers off them if he'd wanted.
"Please, call me Diana, sir," she told him respectfully. "Oh, I left our world when I got married. I...uh...I married a Muggle and we moved back to Devon. I work in a Muggle wool shop which suits me just fine as it gives me plenty of time to be with the kids."
Feeling that the headmaster wouldn't really be interested in the details of her life, she looked up at him bashfully and was surprised―but on reflection she shouldn't have been―when he asked how many children she had.
"I've got three so far which is why my job is ideal. And we have a few customers who are witches; you know Molly Weasley?"
"We are well acquainted with the whole family."
"Oh, of course, you would. Silly me. You'd have taught all of the kids. Well, anyway, she's a regular. Sometimes she sends Bill to pick up orders, especially now that she's busy knitting things for his baby."
The mention of Bill and Fleur's baby piqued Severus' interest. "If I remember correctly, Diana, you and Bill were an item at one point, were you not?"
"Yeah, we were, but at the time it wasn't meant to be," the mahogany-tressed witch admitted ruefully.
The innocuousness of these comments were betrayed by Diana's tone. It was obvious that she too did not let go of past loves easily, so Severus decided to move the conversation along. However, there was something strange about this encounter. He was rarely stopped in the street and certainly not by students whom he'd taught over a decade ago.
"So you obviously haven't eschewed our world entirely if you are here," Severus continued.
"Not entirely. I must admit that I've found myself wanting to come back over the last few months," Diana told him, looking around at the shops in Diagon Alley. "It's changed a lot, hasn't it?"
"What has? Our world or Diagon Alley?"
"Well, both," came the witch's wistful reply. "So many businesses have closed here. I used to find the old shopfronts comforting, but now you've got all these new ones and...I suppose that's what happens when there's a war."
Severus was about to respond when Diana carried on. "Thankfully, I managed to avoid the Registration Commission..."
"Of course, you're a Muggle-born," Severus recalled.
The Muggle-born in question snorted softly. "I used to think you hated me because of that."
"Don't be ridiculous," Severus scoffed. "Contrary to popular belief, I've never had an issue with a person's background. In fact, even in the presence of the Dark Lord I never uttered such views. No, your aptitude for disrupting my classes with your exploding cauldrons did nothing to recommend you, but I can assure you that I didn't hate you."
Diana gave him a wry smile and Severus found his curiosity getting the better of him. "So why the sudden hankering for a return to our world?"
"A number of things actually. My eldest is eight and all of them are exhibiting now. It seems only right that they should be introduced to the magical world before they go to Hogwarts―if you'll have the little terrors, that is."
Severus inclined his head slightly and told her in a deep, conspiratorial voice, "I'm sure we'll cope."
"Well, that's good to know," she chuckled. "Of course, eventually you'll have four of mine on your hands."
Severus' lip twitched. "You're expecting?"
"I am," came her beaming reply, "and I decided that I wanted to have this pregnancy checked over at St. Mungo's. That's why I'm up here today, actually."
Considering why Severus was buying flowers, he wondered if Hermione would be this pleased should they discover that he had impregnated her ahead of schedule. "Well, my congratulations. Did your husband not come with you?"
The smile on the witch's face dissipated. "Things haven't been great between us since I told him I was pregnant. I...well, you don't want to hear about my problems. I've taken up enough of your time, Professor, so I'll be going. Sorry for hijacking you like that, but you were the first familiar face I...sorry, I'm rambling."
"It's perfectly alright, Diana," Severus said rather genially, nodding courteously as the witch said her goodbye and scurried off.
Hermione would have been proud of how 'nice' he was being. He then caught sight of two seventh-year students sneaking out of the Leaky Cauldron. Much to his ego's relief, they took one look at him, turned on their heel and went back into the pub before Flooing back to Hogsmeade.
Making a mental note to speak to them later, as well, he thought to himself, At least I've still got it!

Arthur Weasley was busy reading a report on his desk whilst trying not to drop sugar and jam all over it or him from the doughnut that he was eating. He failed as a loud knock rattled his door.
"Come in," he managed to call, his voice somewhat muffled by a mouthful of deep-fried cake.
Before he could greet the black-clad figure, he was asked, "Do you remember Diana Williams?"
Arthur quirked an eyebrow as he swallowed. "Of course, I do. She broke Bill's heart when she disappeared off the face of the wizarding earth only to turn up in Molly's wool shop, married with three little ones. Why?"
"She accosted me outside of Flos. It's a most peculiar experience to be spoken to by one's former pupils without them shitting themselves."
Arthur laughed heartily at Severus' perplexed expression. "As time goes on, you will have to get used to that, I feel. Lovely flowers, by the way. You must really be in the doghouse."
Severus smirked. "That has yet to be ascertained. These are in anticipation of her displeasure."
"Very wise. I've taught you well," the older wizard chuckled. "Now, what we both need is a cup of tea, one of Molly's doughnuts, and a chat about what happened last night."
"I wouldn't say no to the tea or to a discussion about last night, but I must, regretfully, decline the doughnut. I'm trying to watch the waistline."
"Merlin's Sphericals to that! Let Hermione do that for you. One doughnut won't hurt."
The Head of Spell Detection and Reversal called his secretary for some tea and pushed the box of sugar-covered delights towards the dour wizard, urging him to take one. "Now, I know you're busy and potentially in trouble, so I will get to the point. Pius spent all morning shouting at the Senior Aurors and Ron doesn't know anything about last night's events or the attack on Spinner's End. He hasn't been called to a meeting for two weeks."
Severus took a sip of tea. "He's still supplying them with all the information we give him?"
"He is and they seem interested in it. I think we just need to stay patient."
"Patience is something I have in very short supply, at the moment," Severus grumbled before tilting his head back to stare at the ceiling.
Arthur silently drummed his fingers on his desk before breaking Severus from his thoughts. "How are Hermione's parents?"
"Considering the incompetence of Pius' Aurors, they are well," the headmaster informed him, still staring at the coving around Arthur's office.
"That is a little harsh, Severus," Arthur chided as the younger wizard sat up and took a sip of tea. "We're all shocked; after all, Savage was a good man and with Fisher dead and Lawson disappearing, it's created a rather strange atmosphere within the MLE. However, I believe that Pius has managed to muzzle the press, which is a blessing for all concerned."
"Especially for him as he's covered his back," Severus grumbled into his cup.
Sighing deeply, Arthur considered the wizard before him. "This is not Pius' fault."
"Maybe not," Severus huffed, "but I am disquieted by the whole situation."
"Of course you are. When things like this affect your family, you always look for people to blame. Everything seems to have conspiracy written all over it. However, this was out of Pius' control. Both you and he did everything possible to protect them, it seems. You had a plan in place in case the very worst happened and it worked."
"But it shouldn't have had to be tested," Severus protested. "They were his men, he chose them for the mission, and―"
"―Careful, Severus," Arthur warned. He knew from Order meetings how quickly Severus could turn on someone and how his wrath endured. Recognising the signs, he sensed there was a real danger that Narcissa's fiancé would suffer that fate.
"I have no desire to think what is going through my mind at this juncture but the only witness is Burke and his testimony is sketchy at best. I'm not saying that Pius was directly involved, but how do we know that he doesn't have some level of involvement?"
"Merlin's Beard, Severus!" Arthur exclaimed. "What on earth would Pius stand to gain?"
"I have no idea. However, he was reappointed by whoever that is upstairs, and aside from Hermione and myself, no one except Narcissa and Pius knew where the Grangers would be staying. Even you and Lucius didn't know. Simeon only knew the Floo address, not the actual address. None of those Aurors were supposed to know who they were guarding, but Pius took it upon himself to tell Savage and Lawson. Michael described Savage as a man under the influence of an Imperius and then he ends up dead with Lawson missing? Somewhere along the line someone has betrayed us."
Arthur's brow furrowed, taking on board this new information. "When you put it like that, I can see your concern, but I cannot believe that Pius would betray you."
Severus traced the Ministry of Magic emblem on his cup with his finger distractedly. Until last night, neither could he, but he was concerned and not knowing if he could trust those close to him had him on edge.
"However," Arthur continued, "it would seem logical that given Lawson's disappearance and the lack of a ransom demand, the Aurory has been infiltrated."
"Which is extremely comforting considering both Hermione and I have Auror escorts," Severus growled in frustration. "And how do we know that this infiltration isn't widespread or actively being encouraged? Take the Ministry Ball and the amount of preparation that Pius so-say put into the event's security only for it to end in fucking carnage."
Arthur was not a man to outwardly show frustration or anger often―he left that to his wife. However, as every Weasley child could attest, whilst Molly was full of bluster and immediate, fast burning rage, they would rather face her than be sent to their father. For Arthur Weasley did not raise his voice, nor did his voice drip with menace, but his disappointment could cut deep and that was hard to bear.
Placing both hands on his desk, the older wizard began to set the Headmaster of Hogwarts straight.
"Think very carefully about what you are saying." Arthur's clipped delivery caused Severus to look up. "You are angry―I understand that―but for the love of Merlin, be reasonable. You know, as well as I, that the majority of Aurors are as honest as the day is long. I refuse to let you make Pius the focus of your anger simply because you feel guilty about letting your family down."
"Don't be absurd. I don't think―"
"―But you do, my friend. You shouldered the burden of guilt over Lily Potter's death for years, and I know that you never want that to happen again to either those you love or those whom they love. I realise this is new for you, but Hermione's parents are part of your family and you thought you had a plan to keep them safe. It may have failed but not because of anything you did wrong, and I very much doubt it was because of anything Pius did knowingly. He is carrying out an investigation and will get to the bottom of it because not only does he feel like he has let you down, but Narcissa―the woman carrying his child―was there."
Severus was taken aback. "He told you about Narcissa's condition?"
Arthur nodded. "Of course he did. He's been beating himself up over putting them both at risk, just as you would if you felt that you had inadvertently put Hermione and your child at risk."
The mention of Hermione and their hypothetical child caused a shiver to slide down Severus' spine as the status of said hypothetical child was somewhat in doubt.
"We all know how protective you are of Hermione. She's told us all about the rigmarole you went through to bring her parents back safely―how hard both you and Pius worked to bring them back. You know how much they mean to Hermione and, as such, they mean something to you. As understandable as your feelings are, the only way you will be satisfied is to get to the bottom of this, and quickly. Throwing accusations around will not help.
"So, it looks like we will be initiating a screening process for all Aurors based on the charm contained in our rings to test for Polyjuice usage and we will be interviewing them under Veritaserum, as well."
Narrowing his eyes as Arthur outlined the plan, Severus let out an exasperated sigh. "As if I haven't got enough to do."
"Well, you are the Ministry approved Potions Master and if we organised it methodically we could whip through all the Aurors in three days."
Nodding his head with a sense of resignation, Severus added one stipulation. "In case of collusion, Pius must not attend the interviews."
"Severus, for the last time, Pius is not involved!" Arthur exclaimed, frustration lacing his voice.
The headmaster was about to retort when, without notice, he was interrupted as Arthur's office door opened and in strode the Minister for Magic.
Holding out his hand in greeting, Shacklebolt―or whoever it was masquerading as him―spoke.
"Headmaster, I was told that you were here. I heard about what happened last night and wished to assure you that we will discover the truth behind these events. I hope that both Hermione and her parents are safe and well."
"Your concern is appreciated, Minister," Severus drawled, accepting the man's hand carefully. "They are at Hogwarts and will stay under the castle's protection until the perpetrators of the attack can be found."
"Very wise. Please pass on my regards to your lovely witch. I suppose the fact that Narcissa was also involved has ensured that Pius is working tirelessly on the matter."
"Pius would be giving the same attention to the case whether Narcissa was involved or not," Arthur chimed in, trying to placate Severus, who was bristling at the Minister's comment.
"It must be a worrying time for you, Severus," Shacklebolt pressed on. "After all, one of your properties was attacked by your own students, and now this property as well. It must seem like someone is out to get you."
"My understanding of the previous event was that someone has once again been abusing Polyjuice whilst using the Imperius Curse and Obliviating one of my students."
"If only there were a way to detect if someone is using Polyjuice," Shacklebolt mused with a sigh.
A wicked smile crept from the corner of Severus' mouth. "Well, there are some advantages to being a Potions master."
Shacklebolt's eyes flashed up at the headmaster. "Oh, and what are they?"
"Come now, Minister, you don't expect me to give away all my secrets," came Severus' measured response.
Shacklebolt paused and both Severus and Arthur noted the slightly nervous tone in his voice. "No, I suppose not. Well, like I said, I just came in to offer my assurances that we are doing all we can to capture the perpetrator."
Severus nodded graciously. "Thank you, Kingsley. Now, if you will excuse me, I have been absent from the school rather too much recently and―"
"―I was disappointed to hear that Rostov was too cowardly to stand for his crimes," Shacklebolt interrupted.
"As was I. However, the world is now less one unpunished Death Eater. Hopefully, before too long, more can be brought to justice one way or another."
Severus was sure he heard the Minister for Magic's teeth grind together. "I hope so too," he said before swiftly bidding them both farewell.
"Well that gave him something to think about. Nicely played," Arthur said ponderously as he looked at Severus, who had yet to unfix his gaze from the door though which Shacklebolt had just departed.
"I'm fed up of playing games. It's about time we drew him out," Severus muttered before turning to face his friend. "Arthur, may I call upon you for a rather large favour?"
"Of course, old chap."
Severus inclined his head courteously. "I cannot tell you what it is, and I can't ask you here, but know that your assistance will be greatly appreciated. Once I have finalised the details, I'll be in touch."
"Whenever you're ready, Severus. You know that I will help where I can."
Taking a deep breath, the raven-haired wizard nodded. If there was one person that Severus knew he could rely on, Arthur Weasley was that person.

"So, what's made you come to this momentous decision?" Hermione asked from what was normally Severus' armchair as her redheaded friend, who was nursing a mug of tea and cradling a box of tissues, had commandeered hers.
Blowing her nose, Ginny took a moment to compose herself. "I really like Blaise, I really do. We have a great laugh, but after what happened at Spinner's End a few weeks ago, I just don't think I can't trust him anymore. I mean, I know how much he admires Severus, so I do believe that he was Imperiused and Obliviated, but―"
"What's happened?" was Hermione's concerned enquiry.
"Well, at the start of term we spent every night together and we were at it all the time, but recently...well, not so much. I know you've all got NEWTs next week, but I'm not sure he's been studying."
Hermione's conversation with Theo Nott sprang to mind. "What makes you think he's not?"
"I don't know, but when he does spend the night...we've only had sex once in two weeks."
"Like you said, he's got exams next week. He's probably just—"
"―You know Theo and Pansy have split up, don't you?"
Hermione hoped that she seemed surprised. "Really? No, I didn't. You don't think he's messing around with her, do you?"
"They share rooms. Why not?"
Ginny's resigned response caused Hermione's brow to furrow. "You don't seem very bothered by this. Usually, you'd be kicking up a fuss. And if he is cheating on you, why are you so upset? You normally hex and ask questions later."
Sighing deeply, Ginny mumbled, "Because it's my fault."
The young professor listened intently as Ginny finally got to the crux of her decision. "He's not Harry and Blaise knows it. I know that I'm not being fair to him, but for some reason, I'm finding it really hard to let him go."
"Have you talked to Harry about how you feel?"
Ginny scoffed. "Have you tried to speak to Professor Potter recently? He's rarely in his office after lessons and he's always too busy to talk to me if I see him in the corridor. I've gone to his rooms, but I'm sure he's avoiding me, 'Mione."
Hermione shook her head. "No, he's not. He's just busy. He's a Head of House remember, and between doing his NEWTs, teaching, marking and Quidditch... Why don't you corner him after Quidditch practice or a match?"
"Because he's always talking to someone else or having to rush off."
Hermione shook her head incredulously. "Since when has that ever stopped you? Come on. If you love him, bloody well pin him up against a wall and tell him."
"Ummm Professor, he's a professor now. I can't embarrass him like that."
Hermione snorted softly at the younger witch's response. She had been joking when she suggested pinning Harry against the wall and generally Ginny would have seen the humour in it. However, the fact that she didn't could only mean one thing: Ginevra Weasley was serious about winning Harry Potter back and she didn't want to give him an excuse to push her away.
"Anyway," Ginny continued, "even if I do speak to him I'll be wasting my breath. I doubt he'll want me back after what happened with Lucius, but I really do want to see if we can work things out. I just can't do that whilst he's avoiding me―"
"―Which he isn't," Hermione grumbled.
"Whatever! So I thought perhaps if you invited him over one evening and I just happened to be here waiting for you, and..."
Hermione's concern for her friend suddenly dissipated as she realised what Ginny wanted. "I'm not the only the person who lives here, Gin. You may have met the man I live with―you know, tall, wears a lot of black―"
"―Nice arse."
"That's the one," Hermione chuckled, rolling her eyes. "You'd need to run this past Severus as well, and―"
The door to their chambers flew open and the man himself, wielding two bouquets, strode purposefully into the living room and walked straight past the chair that contained Ginny Weasley. "Have you taken your potion this month?"
Hermione's mouth fell open. "What?"
"Your contraceptive?"
"I assumed that's what you meant, but―"
"I don't want you to take it anymore," Severus stated, stopping in front of Hermione.
Ginny, whose presence had been obscured by the way she'd been curled up in the armchair, was trying not to giggle at Hermione's dumbfounded expression.
"Severus, I think we should discuss this when we don't have company." the curly-haired witch growled dangerously through gritted teeth, nodding her head towards the chair opposite.
"What?" he sneered before panic flashed across his visage as he imagined who the company was. Spinning round, he breathed an imperceptible sigh of relief when he saw that it was Ginny and not Helen or worse, Michael. Composing himself, his eyebrow arched as he greeted Hermione's visitor. "I trust that because you are here gossiping means that you have no work to do, Ginevra."
"Well, I do, but I needed to speak to Hermione―"
"―As do I," Severus replied, his tone suggesting that he would appreciate it if she left them to it. "And your discretion regarding this conversation would be appreciated."
"Right, well, I'll be off then," Ginny said vaguely, her eyes wide, half hoping that Hermione would tell her to stay. However, knowing that was unlikely given the way her friend was glaring at Severus, she jerked her head towards the headmaster and mouthed, "See if you can persuade him."
As the door closed, an enraged Hermione began railing at Severus for being so rude to Ginny. His assertion that he should be able to say what he liked, when he liked in his own living room only added fuel to her anger. The argument went on for a good ten minutes until Hermione realised that Severus was holding flowers, then remembering that he'd gone to see Poppy.
That would account for the abruptness, she thought to herself.
However, the terse delivery of his announcement could mean only two things: it was either unnecessary for her to take her contraceptive anymore, or he'd had good news and wanted to start trying for a family. However, given the way that he'd raised the subject, she was too pissed off with him to consider the latter for a while.
"So, what brought on that pronouncement?" Hermione asked when Severus' rant seemed to run out of steam.
"What?"
"You just waltzed in here and informed the world that you don't want me to take my potion anymore. What brought that about and are those flowers for me? I hope so because they're lovely."
Severus paused for a moment, his mind shooting back to the reason he had to speak with her. Since leaving Arthur's office, he had been mulling over how to break the news to Hermione. He'd hoped the flowers would soften the blow, but the closer he got to their chambers, the more uptight he became.
Realising that he'd blurted out his wishes without immediate explanation and that his consequent reaction was due to his embarrassment from Ginny witnessing his dickheaded behaviour, a contrite apology immediately spilled from her lips.
Accepting his apology on the proviso that he also apologise to her friend, Hermione found herself being guided to the sofa. Her wizard wrapped an arm around her shoulder, coaxing her to snuggle into his side whilst he carefully took her hand in his.
Clearing his throat, Severus began to tell her what was on his mind. "I went to see Poppy, and―"
"Are you alright?" Hermione interjected gently, Severus' wellbeing the only thing concerning her for the moment.
Taking a deep breath, Severus nodded and gave her a weak smile. "I'm fine. Everything is fine," he told her, relief flooding his voice. "However, for a time, it wasn't."
Hermione's brow furrowed. "What do you mean, 'it wasn't?'"
"Just that. There was damage, but it was healed sometime after I left St Mungo's."
Still unable to get her head around this, Hermione sought further clarification.
Stroking his thumb over Hermione's, Severus tried to explain. "Remember what happened when you cut your finger in the lab a few weeks ago?"
"What, apart from it bleeding all over my notes?" Hermione chuckled softly.
Severus narrowed his eyes at her cheeky response. "Do you recall what happened when I was helping you clean it? I ran my finger over the affected area and you remarked that it was hot. Remember when I was injured at the Ministry Ball and I kept complaining about the heat of your hand when you touched my shoulder?"
Hermione nodded slowly.
"Both healed quickly, didn't they?"
Again the young witch nodded, still not quite understanding Severus' point.
"I didn't give it much thought at the time, but I remember how hot your hands felt when you touched my balls for the first time. I put it down to a certain element of excitement on your part and it being too long on mine."
Hermione's eyes widened as she finally understood what he was suggesting. "It was me?"
"It seems to be the only explanation. After all, look what happened to my Dark Mark and my scar. Look what happened to yours. It makes sense. Poppy confirmed the existence of the phenomenon although it is still a rare gift, even for soulmates. However, she also commented a soul bond effectively changes the essence of our magic, and then something occurred to me.
"You will recall that after we first made love, Minerva called me to the castle. I'm sure you have worked out by now that Hogwarts and the Headmaster or Headmistress share a magical connection?"
"I did wonder," Hermione mumbled, her bottom lip between her teeth.
"Well, when we consummated our relationship, we became part of each other and my bond with the castle changed. I had no reason to think on it, but my conversation with Poppy caused me to consider your contraceptive. It was brewed before we became fully intimate and if our magical essence has changed then potentially―"
"―We've effectively been having unprotected sex."
Twisting his lips, Severus nodded bashfully. "Potentially."
"Shit!"
"Indeed." It was Severus' turn to bite his bottom lip as he considered how to broach his next concern. "I, therefore, think that before I go ahead and brew another batch, it would perhaps be prudent to ascertain whether you're...whether we're―"
"―pregnant?" Extricating her hand from his, Hermione twisted to face Severus, and yet her gaze was fixed on her stomach. Slowly stroking her belly, she whispered, "I can't be. I came on last week."
"I know," Severus agreed softly, his hand covering hers, "but whilst it is unlikely that you are, the presence of a period does not necessarily preclude the possibility of you being..." His voice faded as he realised the significance of what he was seeking permission to do. Hermione could be carrying their child, and even if the pregnancy were only a few hours old, the spell would detect it.
Hermione shifted her hand so that her fingers interlaced with Severus' and squeezed his fingers gently, feeling comforted when he returned the sign of affection. "What will we do if I am?"
Severus took a deep breath before responding. "Then we will discuss the options."
Hearing Severus' answer seemed to cement what Hermione wanted as she informed him adamantly, "Well, there is only one option really: We'll be parents in nine month's time."
Swallowing thickly, her partner nodded and gave her a watery smile. "Of course, we will. Ready?"
"Just do it."
Drawing his wand, Severus hesitated before pointing it at Hermione's lower belly. Muttering the incantation, his breath hitched whilst they waited for either a white or blue light.
The result, however, did not bring the relief that the couple had wanted, but neither knew how to tell the other of their disappointment by the appearance of the white, negative light.
The prospect of having a family was not one that the couple was ever afraid to raise. They continued to perfect the baby making process and had many conversations about becoming parents which ranged from anticipative to heartbreaking in recent days. However, until a few hours ago―or minutes in Hermione's case―it had been no more than a sincerest wish.
Turning his head away from her, Severus told her matter-of-factly, "You should dispose of your obsolete potions and I will brew you a new batch."
His witch was not fooled by the stoicism in his voice. "Sev, are you OK?"
Knowing he could keep very little from Hermione these days, he hung his head, his hair obscuring his eyes. "I confess myself disappointed."
Sighing, Hermione moved to straddle him, wrapping her arms around his neck. "Me too," she admitted, looking into Severus' eyes whilst her fingers found their way into the hair. "I didn't expect to be, but I am."
Severus knew exactly how she felt. His arms encircled her and pulling her to him, he buried his face into the side of her neck. They embraced in silence for several minutes until Hermione spoke cautiously.
"Do you have to brew another batch?"
Severus would have been lying if the very same thought hadn't crossed his mind also. Screwing up his eyes, he took a stuttering breath before, with a pained voice, said quietly, "'Mione, don't ask me that."
"But..."
"I know that today has brought the prospect―the pleasant prospect―of parenthood into sharp relief, but, for numerous reasons, we agreed not to try and conceive until after we're married."
Hermione pushed back on his lap. "I know, but―"
"―But nothing," Severus pressed, taking her hands in his and holding them to his chest. "I fully intend to honour my promise not to keep you waiting too long before I ask for your hand, but I must beg for your patience for a little while longer. I am intent on doing this properly, sweetheart."
Hermione smiled and kissed the corner of her wizard's mouth. "I'll hold you to that."
Gathering his witch into her arms once again, Severus' deep chuckle reverberated through his chest. "Please do."

Michael Granger was not a man to be easily swayed. However, in the short space of time since he and his wife had returned to the UK, it was now obvious to him that Hermione's intentions had not been carried out lightly or without good reason. That didn't mean that he was about to forgive her unequivocally―he couldn't remove the hurt over night―but he was more disposed to being in the same room as her and her partner.
It was this newfound detente that saw him and Helen sitting in the dining room of Severus and Hermione's chambers, sharing a rather delicious evening meal accompanied by a more than acceptable wine. The conversation was guarded, but polite, and littered with awkward silences. The scene couldn't be described as a pleasant family meal, but it wasn't the battlefield that Hermione had feared it would become.
Considering what he learnt over the last few days, Michael watched his daughter and her partner carefully. After any war, there was often a power struggle and it was apparent to Hermione's father that, whether the couple liked it or not, they were in the centre of one. It was obvious that Severus was worried. However, the topic of the wizard's worries caused Michael to warm to him.
The thing most fathers want is for their daughter to choose a man who can protect them with the same or greater voracity as themselves. Throughout the dinner conversation, Severus made several comments about being concerned about recent events but that the bastards had obviously forgotten who they were up against.
At first, Michael thought him conceited. However, when Severus said that whilst individually these rogue wizards were no match for him, collectively he was concerned—not for the safety of the wizarding world, not for himself, but for Hermione. And with that came the promise that if they hurt one curl on his witch's head, Severus' response would be decisive: It would involve evisceration and slow, painful deaths. Michael was left in no doubt that his daughter had chosen wisely.

Michael and Helen received a surprised after dinner. Their expressions froze as Winky and Missy, who were both extremely curious about Hermione and Severus' visitors, arrived with a pop,carrying trays of coffee and mint petit fours. The latter was an addition all of the elves' own making.
As Winky placed her tray on the coffee table, Hermione, who had a sleepy Leo on her lap, asked softly, "Winky, do you remember the promise you made when you became my house-elf?"
Winky nodded, drawing herself up to her full height. "Of course, Mistress. Winky is remembering perfectly. You said that I is to remain a free elf as long as I serves you, master and your family."
"Winky, I would like you to meet my parents."
Winky gasped, shortly followed by Missy. "Mistress' family?"
Hermione smiled warmly and nodded.
The elf turned to face Michael and Helen, bowing to each of them separately. "Winky is honoured to meet the great Hermione Granger's parents. Winky is happy to serve."
Still shocked by the strange creatures before them, the couple looked at Severus and Hermione for guidance about what to say. Help was offered in the form of Severus mouthing, "Thank you, Winky."
As one, the couple stumbled over the simple phrase, but both chuckled as Winky nearly fainted from happiness.
After repeating the exercise with Missy, Severus was explaining how to call the elves when the familiar voice of Pius Thicknesse rang out from the grate. "Can I come through?"
"Of course, Pius," Hermione called out as Severus tensed.
"Apologies for interrupting your evening, I will be brief. I have received disturbing news from Graeme Hartford. Sarah was reported missing by her boyfriend when she did not return from lunch with us on Sunday."
As the others waited expectantly, Severus closed his eyes, sensing from Pius' tone what was coming next.
"Her body was found an hour ago."

AN1: I'm sorry...nah, I'm not. So what's going on? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
AN2: The next few chapters move into the Christmas and New Year period...and I think some of you will have your patience rewarded...
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The Headmaster's Wife