Chapter 9
AU / Same world as all of my previous stories.
The world and the characters in it belongs to J.K. Rowling
AN: This story will be a multi-chapter one, I don t know how long or how frequently will I update but I will try not to finish on a cliffhanger. If you got any constructive criticism feel free to share it.
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Severus sat at the teacher's desk in the Great Hall, his dark eyes scanning the room with a mixture of weariness and suspicion. It was another year at Hogwarts,
and as always, he couldn't help but wonder what Harry Potter and his band of troublemakers had in store for him in their 6th year.
As he pondered this, his mind drifted back to a recent conversation he had with Albus Dumbledore.
They had discussed the immense pressure Severus was under, juggling his responsibilities as a double agent for both the Order of the Phoenix and Lord Voldemort,
all while maintaining his role as a Potions Master at Hogwarts. Severus leaned back in his chair, the weight of his conversation with Albus Dumbledore pressing heavily on his mind. The Headmaster's words echoed in his thoughts, reminding him of the sheer volume of potions he was expected to produce, both for the Order of the Phoenix and for Voldemort's remembered how Albus had spoken of the increasing demands placed upon him, the urgency of the situation requiring more potions than ever before.
With the war escalating, every vial of antidote, every potion of strength, held the potential to tip the scales in their favor.
Yet, despite his skill and dedication, Severus found himself stretched thin. There were only so many hours in a day, and with his duties at Hogwarts,
he barely had time to fulfill all the necessary brewing. The constant pressure to meet the needs of both sides weighed heavily on him, a burden that seemed
to grow heavier with each passing day.
As he sat in the Great Hall, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of students, Severus couldn't shake the feeling of being pulled in too many directions at once.
He knew that something had to give, but the consequences of failing in either role were too dire to contemplate.
With a resigned sigh, Severus resolved to redouble his efforts, to find a way to balance his obligations without sacrificing the quality of his work.
For in a world where every potion could mean the difference between life and death, failure was not an option.
The weight of these obligations bore down on Severus heavily, especially as he anticipated the challenges that awaited him in the coming months.
He knew that Harry and his friends, with their knack for trouble making and their uncanny ability to find themselves embroiled in dangerous situations,
would only add to his burden. But Severus was nothing if not resilient.
With a steely resolve, he steeled himself for whatever challenges lay ahead, determined to navigate the treacherous waters of both the wizarding world's conflicts and the antics of its youngest heroes. As he sat there in the Great Hall, his expression unreadable, Severus vowed to face whatever came his way with all the cunning and determination he possessed.
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After the school year opening ceremony, Albus Dumbledore's request for Severus Snape's presence in his office was a matter of great intrigue. Severus, accustomed to the enigmatic nature of the Headmaster's requests, made his way through the familiar corridors of Hogwarts, his mind already racing with possibilities.
As Severus made his way through the winding corridors of Hogwarts toward Albus Dumbledore's office, his mind buzzed with curiosity and a tinge of apprehension.
The summons from the Headmaster had come unexpectedly, and Severus couldn't help but wonder what it was that Albus wished to discuss with him.
With each step, his thoughts raced, considering the myriad possibilities of what could be awaiting him in that office.
Was it about the brewing tensions between certain students? Or perhaps it pertained to the ongoing struggles of maintaining his delicate balance between
his roles in the wizarding world's conflict?
Snape couldn't shake the feeling that this meeting held significant importance, though the specifics eluded him. He knew better than to speculate too wildly;
Albus Dumbledore was a master of discretion, revealing his intentions only when the time was right.
As he finally reached the gargoyle guarding the entrance to the Headmaster's office, Severus took a deep breath, steeling himself for whatever awaited him beyond those doors. Upon reaching the towering oak door of Dumbledore's office, He raised his hand to knock, his thoughts swirling with anticipation. What could the Headmaster possibly want to discuss with him at this particular juncture of the school year? As Severus stepped into the familiar surroundings of Albus Dumbledore's office, he couldn't help but wonder what awaited him in the presence of the enigmatic Headmaster. Whatever it was, he knew that he would face it with the same resolve and cunning that had guided him through countless challenges before.
Dumbledore, seated behind his desk, regarded Severus with his characteristic twinkle in his eye. "Severus, thank you for coming," Albus greeted him warmly. "Please, have a seat."
Severus inclined his head in acknowledgment, taking a seat opposite Dumbledore, his expression carefully neutral. "I trust the beginning of the school year has been to your satisfaction?" The headmaster began, his tone genial but with an underlying seriousness.
Severus nodded. "Yes, Headmaster. All seems to be proceeding as expected." Dumbledore nodded, his gaze piercing yet compassionate. "I have asked you here because there are matters of great importance that we must discuss. Snape raised an eyebrow, his expression guarded. "What is so urgent that it cannot wait, Albus?" Dumbledore leaned forward slightly, his blue eyes piercing. "Severus, I have found a solution to alleviate the burden of your time-consuming work."the professor tensed, a flicker of defiance crossing his features. "I assure you, Headmaster, I am perfectly capable of managing my responsibilities. I do not require assistance."
Dumbledore regarded him steadily. "This is not a matter of assistance, Severus. It is a matter of necessity. The situation we face demands efficiency and dedication from all of us."
Severus's jaw clenched, his pride bristling at the implication. "With all due respect, Albus, I am already doing everything within my power to fulfill my duties. I fail to see how any proposed solution could improve upon that."
The headmaster's expression remained unchanged, his tone unwavering. "What I am about to tell you, Severus, is not a request. It is an order." Severus stiffened, his gaze meeting Dumbledore's unwavering one. He knew better than to defy a direct order from the Headmaster, particularly when the stakes were so high.
"Very well," Severus said evenly, though the resentment simmered beneath his words. "What is it that you require of me?" Dumbledore leaned back in his chair, a hint of mischief in his eyes.
Snape's eyebrows furrowed in surprise at Dumbledore's revelation. "The Golden Trio wishes to join the Order of the Phoenix?" he repeated, his tone incredulous.
Albus nodded solemnly. "Indeed, Severus. Harry, Ron, and Hermione have expressed their earnest desire to contribute to the war effort in any way they can."
Severus shook his head, unable to conceal his skepticism. "And what, pray tell, do they believe they can accomplish? Three children, barely out of their adolescence, against the might of Voldemort's forces?"
Dumbledore regarded the younger man with a knowing look. "Do not underestimate them, Severus. Harry, Ron, and Hermione possess qualities that are invaluable in times of adversity: courage, loyalty, and a remarkable resilience in the face of danger."
Severus scoffed. "Bravery and loyalty are admirable traits, yes, but they alone are not enough to turn the tide of war. The Dark Lord's return changes everything. We are facing an enemy unlike any we have encountered before."
Dumbledore's gaze softened with understanding. "I do not discount the severity of the situation. But we must not overlook the potential of those who stand beside us, regardless of their age or experience. Harry, Ron, and Hermione have faced great peril and emerged stronger for it. They have proven themselves time and time again."
Severus's expression remained guarded. "And what, pray tell, would be their role within the Order of the Phoenix?" Dumbledore clasped his hands together thoughtfully. "Hermione's knowledge of potions could prove invaluable to our cause. With your guidance, she could assist in brewing the necessary antidotes, potions of strength, and other remedies needed for our operations."
Severus regarded Dumbledore with a mixture of surprise and skepticism. "You wish for Hermione Granger to become my apprentice?" he repeated, as if needing confirmation of what he had just heard. Dumbledore nodded calmly. "Yes, Severus. I believe Hermione has both the intelligence and the dedication necessary to excel in the art of potion-making under your guidance."
Albus clasped his hands together thoughtfully. "Hermione's knowledge of potions could prove invaluable to our cause. With your guidance, she could assist in brewing the necessary antidotes, potions of strength, and other remedies needed for our operations."
Severus mulled over the words, his mind already considering the possibilities. While the idea of taking on an apprentice was not without its challenges, he could see the logic in Dumbledore's proposal. With the help, he could potentially alleviate some of the burdens of his own workload, allowing him to focus on more pressing matters.
"Very well, Albus," He finally conceded. "I will accept Hermione as my apprentice and teach her the art of potions." Dumbledore's eyes twinkled with satisfaction. "Thank you, Severus. I believe this arrangement will prove beneficial for both you and Hermione, as well as for the Order."
Severus listened attentively as Dumbledore explained the division of responsibilities within the Order of the Phoenix. The revelation that Harry and Ron would be under the care of James and Lily Potter came as both a relief and a surprise to him.
"James and Lily will handle Harry and Ron?" Severus repeated, seeking confirmation.
Dumbledore nodded. "Yes, Severus. James and Lily have graciously offered to mentor Harry and Ron, guiding them in their roles within the Order and helping to hone their skills for the challenges that lie ahead."
Severus considered this arrangement carefully. Though he harbored lingering animosity toward James Potter, he couldn't deny the couple's dedication to the cause. If anyone could prepare Harry and Ron for the trials they would face, it was James and Lily.
"And what of my role in all of this?" Severus inquired, his tone betraying a hint of skepticism.
Dumbledore fixed him with a knowing look. "Your primary focus, Severus, will be on teaching Hermione. I believe your expertise in potions will prove invaluable to her development, and together, you can make a formidable team."Severus paused at the door, his hand resting on the knob, as the words hung in the air. He turned back to face the Headmaster, a faint crease of uncertainty marring his brow.
"What do you mean by that, Albus?" Severus inquired, his tone guarded.
Dumbledore regarded him with a knowing smile. "Hermione Granger is a remarkable young woman, Severus. She possesses a keen intellect and a thirst for knowledge that knows no bounds. I have no doubt that, given the opportunity, she will prove herself to be an exceptional apprentice."
Severus's expression softened slightly, though he remained skeptical. "I will keep that in mind, Headmaster," he replied tersely, before turning to leave once more.
As he exited Dumbledore's office, Severus couldn't shake the lingering feeling of unease that lingered in the pit of his stomach. Teaching Hermione Granger would undoubtedly present its own unique set of challenges, but if Albus Dumbledore believed in her potential, then perhaps there was more to her than met the eye.
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"Professor, are you there?" A small, uncertain voice belonging to a young lady pierced the air.
"Come in," replied a voice that resonated with depth and confidence.
As the door creaked open, the girl cautiously entered. She wore her uniform, without her tie and robe, secretly hoping her teacher might overlook her Gryffindor affiliation.
"Did I came at the wrong time Professor?".-She asked.
"No, just reminiscing, Miss Granger," responded Severus, his tone carrying a weight of solemnity. "Do you understand why you're here?"
Hermione was confused.
"Am I not here for detention, sir?"
Severus stood up from behind his desk, and pinched his nose as He started to march up and down in the room.
"Yes and no. When you joined the Order and consulted Albus Dumbledore on how to contribute, He saw fit for you to assist me in potion-making as an apprentice. An arrangement I am not particularly keen on sharing. However, orders are orders."
The girl visibly became smaller as Severus towered over her.
"I'm sorry sir. I did not wanted to cause any inconvenience f..for you"-She barely managed to say.
Severus looked at the girl. She somehow reminded her to Lily.
"Miss Granger, as we'll be spending considerable time together, it's essential for effective learning that you master communication with me," he emphasized.
Severus observed Hermione's demeanor soften slightly at his words. Despite her initial apprehension, she seemed determined to make the best of the situation.
"Your sincerity is noted, Miss Granger," Severus said, his tone softening just a fraction. "But let us dispense with formalities for now. You may call me Professor Snape, as is customary." Hermione nodded, a faint glimmer of relief flickering in her eyes. "Yes, Professor Snape."
Severus regarded her with a scrutinizing gaze, his sharp eyes taking in her every detail. There was a resilience in her, he noted, a determination that reminded him of someone he once knew. "Very well, Miss Granger," he continued. "As my apprentice, you will be expected to dedicate yourself fully to the study of potions. This will not be an easy task, but I trust that you are up to the challenge."
Hermione nodded eagerly, her expression brightening with enthusiasm. "Yes, Professor Snape. I will do my best to learn from you." Severus nodded in acknowledgment, his demeanor still reserved but with a hint of approval. "Good. Then let us begin." As they entered the potions laboratory, Severus gestured for Hermione to take a seat at one of the workbenches while he retrieved a textbook from the shelves. With practiced efficiency, he began to outline the day's lesson.
Hermione listened attentively, her eyes alight with curiosity as she absorbed the information. Despite her initial nervousness, she found herself growing more confident with each passing moment, encouraged by Snape's surprisingly patient guidance. To Snape s surprise, she proved to be a quick learner, her movements precise and methodical as she followed his instructions to the letter. By the end of the lesson, Severus found himself grudgingly impressed by Hermione's progress. Though there was still much for her to learn and it was just the first lesson, he could sense her potential, a spark of brilliance that mirrored his own passion for the art of potion-making.
"Your performance today was adequate, Miss Granger," Severus remarked, his tone betraying a hint of approval. "Continue to apply yourself with such diligence, and you may yet prove to be a worthy apprentice."
Hermione beamed with pride at his words, her determination renewed by the prospect of mastering the craft under Snape's tutelage. As they prepared to conclude the lesson, she couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for the journey that lay ahead.