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Chapter Text

Severus opened his eyes. He had not expected to survive Nagini’s bite, so there was a certain novelty about actually being able to open his eyes.

He was somewhere that definitely was not the Shrieking Shack. He was sitting in a comfortable armchair, in an office with a desk, chairs, an empty book case. The walls were a spring green color, the carpet a deep forest green and the room was bright, clean… and empty. No windows, Severus realized. A single door was behind him and he did not know where it led.

As he finished looking around but before he could stand, the door opened and the most beautiful man Severus had ever seen walked in. Severus glimpsed a disconcerting nothingness through the door and was grateful when the man closed it.

“Severus Tobias Snape. Welcome,” the man said in a melodious, baritone voice.

“Thank you,” Severus replied automatically. “I think.”

A booming laugh. “Good man. You are right to be cautious, for I have an offer for you,” he said.

Severus stopped himself from asking questions.

The man put his hand on his breastbone and gave a small bow. “I am Zirnitra.”

“The God of Chaos?” Severus frowned.

“The very one,” Zirnitra nodded.

“What would you want with me?” Severus asked, slightly stunned at the idea he would have the attention of a god.

“I really do have an offer for you,” he said.

“What kind of an offer?” Severus was wary. Gods were not to be trifled with.

“You have died before your time,” Zirnitra said. “That allows me to give you a choice. You can embrace your death and move on to Hecate’s Garden. My wife would welcome you there and allow you to help her in her Garden. There is always much to do and you could keep busy tending her Garden. At some point, she may offer to send you back to your world, but it would be a very different world than the one you knew.”

“How different?”

“You are one of the last victims of Tom Marvolo Riddle,” Zirnitra said.

Severus was confused.

“Oh, you do not know?” Zirnitra said, surprised. He made the name Tom Marvolo Riddle appear in the air between them. Then with a flick of Zirnitra’s finger, the letters re-arranged to form the phrase ‘I am Lord Voldemort.’

“The hubris!” Severus said with a snort.

“Even more, Riddle is not the Pure Blood he pretends to be,” Zirnitra said with a wry grin. “Granted, his mother was a witch, barely, the last of the Gaunt line. His father was what you call a Muggle. A man with no magic at all.”

Severus winced. That would not be something Voldemort would willingly share with anyone.

“And while young Harry has won the War against Riddle, he has lost the battle for Magic. Fewer magical beings — human and creature alike — have been born in the past years and this War has taken its toll. Within the next fifty years, there will be no more magical beings born and Magic as you know it will disappear.”

Severus stared. “The end of Magic?”

Zirnitra nodded.

“And if I do not embrace my death?”

“I’d like to send you back in time, to stop Tom Riddle,” Zirnitra said.

“How can I do that?” Severus asked. “I am only one man.”

“There is a time in your life when you had some contact with all the key players,” Zirnitra said. “Hecate has laid the groundwork for the fall of Riddle in those around you. But there is a point in time when personal issues overwhelm everyone and you, and they, are not able to defeat Riddle at a key moment in time.”

“Me?”

“You and the others,” Zirnitra nodded.

“Which others?” Severus had a sinking feeling about this.

“Lily Evans, James Potter, Sirius Black, Regulus Black, Remus Lupin, Peter Pettigrew, and Jillian Smithson,” Zirnitra listed.

“Potter! Bah!” Severus spat.

“Lily and James are soul mates,” Zirnitra said gently. “They have been reborn countless times and always will be together. That is not something you can fight.”

Severus looked away. He had suspected something like that but had not wanted to admit it to himself.

“Lily is, and always will be, your friend. But never anything more,” Zirnitra said. “There is someone else out there for you.”

A thread of hope bloomed in Severus’ chest. A chance to keep at least Lily’s friendship would be worth working toward.

“What would I have to do?” Severus asked.

“I would like to send you back to your sixth year at Hogwarts,” Zirnitra said. “That is when everything falls apart and is the moment where your personal relationships need to be fixed.”

Severus grimaced. That was just after he called Lily a ‘Mudbood’ and he had never been able to properly apologize for that.

“I am going to send you back with a few advantages,” Zirnitra said. “You will be going back as Lord Prince, not just Severus Snape. The previous Lord overlooked you as the Heir to the Prince title and bequeathed it on a cousin who had no issue. The title died with the cousin in the previous time line.”

“My Da…” Severus was immediately worried.

“Will be prevented from knowing about that,” Zirnitra assured him. “Your mother will be able to know but also will be unable to interact with the Prince Family Magic. She deliberately denounced the Prince family but you are considered an innocent in that decision, and will not suffer because of her choices.”

“And what does that title give me?” Severus asked.

“Money, as a start,” Zirnitra replied cheerfully. “There are vaults at Gringotts that will be available to you. That will then bring you in contact with the Horde and give you an Account Manager.”

“Vaults? Plural?” Severus asked faintly.

Zirnitra was entirely too gleeful about that. “Yes. You will have a level of freedom and independence that you would not otherwise have.”

Severus nodded. Even a modest amount of money would do that. This sounded like a more than modest amount.

“There is also a seat on the Wizengamot,” Zirnitra went on. “That is of lesser immediate importance, but will be of value as you get older.”

“I don’t know how to manage all that!” Severus protested.

“Which is where your Account Manager will be of help,” Zirnitra said. “He will have access to the information that you will need.”

“What else?” Severus asked.

“You will be allowed to keep your memories and skills,” Zirnitra said. “You earned those and should be allowed that advantage, although you will not be allowed to directly speak of future events.”

Severus nodded. That made some sense. As much sense as anything at the moment.

“Dumbledore! You didn’t mention Dumbledore!” Severus said as soon as he thought of it.

Zirnitra grimaced. “Albus Dumbledore has his own agenda, one that is not favorable to the future of Magic. He is not exactly a bad person but his ‘Greater Good’ is misguided. He will be an obstacle you will need to work around.”

Severus nodded. If he was no longer beholden to Dumbledore, Severus could see a number of opportunities to work around the Headmaster. It appeared that he would have the resources and he could plan those opportunities.

“When would you send me back to? And where?” Severus asked.

“I suspect you can use some time to become used to being Lord Prince, as well as have a chance to improve your general health. You were not unhealthy but, well, ask your Account Manager about seeing a Healer. That will be to your advantage.”

That was something Severus never would have thought of. “Anything else I should ask about?”

“Ask for a mentor in dealing with your Lordship,” Zirnitra replied. “Consider your options thoroughly and do not reject any suggestions out of hand.”

Severus groaned to himself. That meant Potter, more than likely. But he would take this seriously.

“All right. When?” Severus asked.

“A week after the end of your fifth year,” Zirnitra said. “That will give you the summer and time not complicated by having to attend classes to work toward our agenda.”

Severus nodded.

“Will you be… around?” Severus asked.

“Occasionally,” Zirnitra replied with a shrug. “I am not omnipotent, so I do not know everything.”

“Which is how Vol-, I mean Riddle came to be,” Severus added.

“Exactly!” Zirnitra replied cheerfully. “But I will check on you more than I might have.”

“I’m not sure that’s a good thing,” Severus muttered.

Zirnitra laughed…

Chapter Text

The sound of laughter followed Severus down a bright tunnel where he found himself landing at the Apparition point in Dragon Alley.

Claim your Lordship first. All else will follow… Zirnitra's voice faded in his head.

Severus took stock of himself. He had his - shabby - school robes on. But they were the best he owned, so there were no other choices. He was slightly shorter than he had been as an adult, there had been a growth spurt the summer after sixth year where he had shot up another six inches. So he had that to look forward to.

He caught a glimpse of himself in a shop window and stopped to look. He was thin and pale, an unhealthy look. Although he did remember that the end of the school year had just happened and he had worked too hard in preparing for the exams. A sudden thought had him checking his left arm. No Dark Mark! With that realization, his magic felt lighter in a way he never remembered it feeling. That alone was worth whatever else he needed to do.

Knowing he was there to fix much of this, Severus turned away from the window and strode toward Gringotts.

Inside the bank, he went to the first open teller.

“May your vaults overflow with the gold of your enemies,” Severus said, looking directly at the Goblin working there.

“May your enemies lay stricken at your feet,” the teller replied automatically. “What can Gringotts do for you?”

“My apologies for not making an appointment, but I have received notice that I need to meet with the Prince Account Manager.”

The teller grunted. “Wait over there,” he pointed vaguely. “Someone will come to get you.”

Severus nodded his head and walked over to the seating that had been pointed out. Severus sat and prepared to wait patiently.

It was twenty minutes before a guard came up to him.

“Follow me.” The command was blunt. The Goblin turned and walked toward the rear of the bank.

Severus followed. He quickly found himself in a section of the bank he had never been in before. The walls of the corridor were roughly hewed but the air was warm and fresh.

The guard stopped in front of a door and opened it. “Here.”

Severus walked inside and the guard closed the door behind him.

The walls were still rough but there was a thick, beige rug on the floor, the furniture gleamed, and a cheerful fire was burning in a fireplace in one corner.

“Mr. Snape?” The Goblin behind the desk asked.

“I am,” Severus nodded.

“Have a seat.” The goblin pointed to a chair in front of the desk.

Severus perched on the edge of the chair, trying to look like he knew what he was doing.

“Thank you for your prompt attention to our missive,” the Goblin went on. “My name is Clayde Knifehand and I am the Prince Account Manager.”

“I am pleased to meet you,” Severus fell back on what manners he had.

“Do you know why you are here?” Knifehand asked.

Severus was about to say ‘yes’ when “No, I do not” came out of his mouth. Oh. One of those things he could not talk about.

“Roland Marcellus Prince, Lord Prince, and also your great-grandfather, recently died,” Knifehand said. “Before he died, he named you his Heir.”

“I… I was not aware of that,” Severus stuttered.

“I suspected as much,” Knifehand grumbled. “I told the old fool it would be a better transition of the Family Magic if he talked to you first but I think he didn’t want to upset your mother. She was the one who fled the Family Magic, so I don’t know why he really cared.”

“My Mam is… a force of nature when she wants to be,” Severus admitted. While his mother largely followed whatever Tobias Snape said, there were times she would fight back and Tobias would back down.

“I suspected as much,” Knifehand nodded. “What’s done is done. Roland Prince died two weeks ago and he had named you his Heir.”

“I… I never expected such a thing,” Severus admitted honestly. “What is to be done?”

“First of all, we need to verify your identity and, once that is done, you need to claim the Lordship,”

“Anything you can do to assist me in this will be appreciated,” Severus said.

“Good!” Knifehand replied cheerfully. “You’re a bit young for the Lordship but being willing to work with this will be to your advantage.”

Severus nodded.

“First, the identity check,” Knifehand said as he pulled a parchment from his desk. “It will also serve as an inheritance check, to see if there are any other inheritances due to you.”

“All right,” Severus agreed.

“Do you have a knife?” Knifehand asked. “You need seven drops of blood on the parchment.”

Severus took a knife he used for non-poisonous potions ingredients -- he cleaned it well between uses -- out of his pocket. He used it to prick his finger and he allowed the seven drops of blood to fall on the paper. He wandlessly healed the small cut.

“Nicely done,” Knifehand complemented him. “Wandless magic does not come easily to most Wizards.”

“I wish to study potions,” Severus replied. “It is useful to not need a wand for some things.”

“True,” Knifehand nodded.

They watched as writing appeared on the parchment.

“This verifies that you are Severus Tobias Snape,” Knifehand said. “It also shows your current status as Heir to Lord Prince. There are no other inheritances listed.”

“It is more than I expected,” Severus replied honestly.

Knifehand brought out a small box. “The final step is to take the Lordship ring.”

Severus opened the box and stared at the ornate ring in the box. He swallowed and then reached in for the ring. He slipped it on his finger.

And immediate sense of family and magic and protection came over him. He had heard of the power of a Lord’s ring and it swept through him.

Knifehand sat silent as Severus adjusted to the ring.

“That is… amazing,” Severus admitted weakly after almost fifteen minutes of silence.

“I have heard,” Knifehand nodded. “Do you need a restorative?”

Severus nodded. “A Pepper-Up, perhaps?”

“I will bring one,” Knifehand replied. He left the office by another door and returned shortly. He handed Severus a vial.

Severus opened the vial and took a sniff. “This is not the standard potion,” he commented before drinking it without further hesitation, as a sign of trust. “It is exceptional.” The typical steam did not blast from his ears but he felt immediately stronger.

Knifehand tilted is head in consideration. “Most wizards would not know that.”

“I am studying potions,” Severus admitted.

Knifehand nodded. “We will talk when you have graduated from Hogwarts.”

“Agreed.” Severus was grateful for the option. “My ring tells me I should see a Healer. I am not unwell but it thinks I am in need of… Healing.” Severus shrugged, not sure what else to say about that suggestion from Zirnitra without giving away too much.

Knifehand drummed his fingers on his desk. “Is it an immediate need?”

“I do not think so,” Severus replied. “But there are…” he pretended to listen to something only he could hear, “… growth issues?”

“Ah! Let me consult with my colleagues,” Knifehand said.

“That is not a problem,” Severus replied.

“If you have time, I would be glad to escort you to the Prince vault,” Knifehand offered. “The previous Lord Prince had not been to the Bank in a number of years and, while there is an inventory, it likely should be updated. And there is value in actually seeing the vault and appreciating what is there.”

“I would enjoy that,” Severus admitted.

“Come with me,” Knifehand directed.

Severus followed Knifehand through several corridors and down a long flight of stairs to the Vault level of the bank. Severus had never had a reason to visit a Vault at the bank, being outside the Family Magic and not having enough money to justify a Vault, so this was a new experience for him.

“This is more… sedate than the general cart ride,” Knifehand admitted. “The other is to discourage Vault owners from making too many visits to the Vaults.”

Severus laughed, delighted. “I will keep your secret!”

The cart took them to a Vault on a lower level. Severus caught sight of a sleeping dragon along the way. So. That part of the story he had heard about Harry and his friends had been true. Interesting.

“You open the Vault by placing your hand on the sphere,” Knifehand explained. “There will be a small prick, since a sample of blood is required on this Vault. That is something one of your ancestors requested to be installed.”

“An interesting security measure,” Severus replied.

“Some Vaults only require a key, but that is the choice of the owner,” Knifehand shrugged. "It is not impossible to copy Vault keys."

It was a work of moments to get the Vault open. Severus took two steps inside and stopped. He looked back at Knifehand.

“Are you sure this is the Prince Vault?” Severus asked, awestruck and overwhelmed simultaneously.

Knifehand nodded.

Severus looked around at the piles of money, the wall of likely priceless artifacts, the shelves of books, and countless trunks. And that was only what he could see from here. The Vault went on, deep into the bank.

“How do I find anything?” Severus asked.

“There is an inventory ledger,” Knifehand replied. “Call for it.”

“Accio inventory ledger,” Severus said, holding up one hand.

A book came sailing from a nearby trunk. It smacked into Severus’ hand. He opened it and felt his eyes go wide when he saw the listing of Galleons, Knuts, and Sickles. He shut the book and took several deep breaths.

He turned to face Knifehand. “I think this is enough for today.”

Knifehand grinned. “Understandable.”

They went back to Knifehand’s office. Severus found himself clutching the book to his chest as Knifehand looked on in amusement.

“I’d like to come back… tomorrow?” Severus said.

“Certainly,” Knifehand agreed. “That will give me a chance to organize a list of Healers for you to choose from.”

Remembering what Zirnitra had said about finding a mentor, Severus asked. “I am already lost with the responsibilities I find that I have and will be taking on. I will count on your advice in financial matters, but I am lacking advice in Wizarding areas. If you would be able to make suggestions for that, also, it would be appreciated.”

Knifehand’s eyes narrowed. “That is an… unusual request for a Wizard to make to the bank.”

Severus shrugged. “I will be dealing with adult Wizards who I have only heard about,” he admitted. “The bank has at least dealt with them as customers and may have some… opinions to offer.”

“True,” Knifehand admitted reluctantly. “Again. Let me consult with my colleagues before I give you an answer.”

“Of course,” Severus replied.

“Anything else?” Knifehand asked.

“I would not even know where to start,” Severus replied.

Knifehand passed over a wallet. Dragonhide, Severus identified the material as he handled it.

“There is a Vault key if you will need to spend any money,” Knifehand said. “Also both Galleons and Muggle cash and a Muggle credit card. Do you know how to mate your magic to an item?”

Severus nodded.

“If you mate your magic to the wallet, it cannot be taken from you unwillingly,” Knifehand said. “Your ring will serve as a seal for official matters, but there is a blank seal for other use.”

Severus took the wallet and placed it in the inside pocket in his robe. He stood.

“To a profitable venture,” Severus said. “May your Vaults overflow.”

“To a profitable venture,” Knifehand responded.

When Severus left the office, the same guard was there to escort him to the main part of the bank.

“May your enemies flee as you approach,” Severus said as they reached the lobby.

“May your Vaults overflow with gold,” the guard replied. He turned and walked away.

Chapter Text

Severus walked out onto Diagon Alley in a state of confusion. Becoming Lord Prince was one thing. The money attached to the Lordship was overwhelming. But it also gave Severus an independence he never had before.

Walking through the Alley felt different. He could look into the shop windows and purchase anything that attracted his fancy. No more avoiding temptation. He shivered in anticipation.

Severus stopped for a moment in the Leaky Cauldron and took off his robes before exiting onto the London street. His shirt and trousers were shabby but serviceable for the moment. Deciding to trust further in Zirnitra, Severus decided to not go home just as yet. His Mam was expecting him but there was no telling what kind of a mood Tobias might be in and Severus wanted to put that meeting off. He walked the London streets and found himself standing in front of a hotel.

Taking a breath and squaring his shoulders, Severus forced himself to stroll into the lobby of the hotel. He drew on his ‘Potion Master’ persona and projected an assurance he did not quite feel.

“I would like a room for…” He considered. “…a week.” That should give him some time to get his feet under him.

“Certainly, sir,” the obviously bored woman behind the desk said. “I need a credit card and identification.”

Severus panicked until he remembered the wallet that Knifehand had given him. He opened it up and found a Muggle credit card and an appropriate identification card. He handed them to the woman and she took them without question. She did some work on the computer and she handed back the cards.

“This is your room key,” she said, handing over another plastic card. “Do you need help with your luggage?”

“Um, no, thank you,” Severus replied, realizing he had nothing with him. “I am fine.”

“If you have any questions, you can call the desk and someone should be able to help you,” she said without looking up. Severus was just another client and the anonymity was refreshing.

Severus followed the signs to the lift and found his assigned room. It was a relatively simple hotel room with a bed and an en suite but it was all his. Helpfully, there was a minuscule balcony that looked out over the street in front of the hotel.

His stomach rumbled and Severus decided to find some lunch. He went back on the street and entered a pub. About to order an ale, he remembered his current age and changed his drink to cider. The bar maid didn’t question a teen on his own, simply took his order and efficiently brought him food and drink. He used the credit card to pay the bill.

Once satisfyingly fed, Severus decided to go looking for new clothing. He spent time in multiple shops, selecting an entire new wardrobe. He bought everything from the skin out, selecting items he had not been able to afford previously. He surreptitiously shrunk his packages as he moved from store to store. He indulged in a leather jacket that he had wanted but never even tried on because he knew it was beyond his means.

Severus stopped at a bookstore and bought Muggle novels, science books, and some stationery. He wanted to make lists of things he needed to get and needed to do. A notebook would be more useful than parchment for that.

He felt like a different person as he walked into the hotel. No one had said anything about his clothing before, and no one noticed now, but Severus felt more like he belonged among the other patrons of the hotel.

That feeling followed him into the bank the next morning. Severus went up to the teller and said, “Lord Prince to see his Account Manager. I have an appointment.”

Severus realized that statement would take some time to get used to saying.

“Wait over there.” The goblin pointed at the bench.

Severus waited only a few minutes before the same guard came up to him.

“This way.” The guard turned and walked off. Severus followed and was left at the same door.

Knifehand was in the room.

“Good morning, Lord Prince,” he said.

“Good morning to you,” Severus replied.

“I see you have put some of your money to good use,” Knifehand commented, acknowledging Severus’ new clothes under his robe.

“I am fully aware that appearances are important,” Severus replied. “I started with Muggle clothes since I could get started mostly on my own. At least for day-to-day wear. I would be looking for recommendations for where to purchase new robes.”

“Most wizards in your position would be purchasing custom robes from a tailor,” Knifehand said.

Severus nodded. “That makes sense,” he admitted. “I simply do not know where to start.”

“That is part of today’s discussion,” Knifehand replied. “I have some suggestions for a mentor for you.” He handed Severus a parchment with a list of names. Severus was shocked at some of the names.

“I am not surprised to find Fleamont Potter and Arcturus Black to be on the list,” Severus admitted. “I did not expect Theodore Nott nor Fillius Flitwick.”

“My colleagues wanted to offer a variety of options,” Knifehand admitted. “While Nott is a known Death Eater, we included him in a sense of letting you have a choice. If he were not a Death Eater, he would likely be a perfect mentor. As a member of a Noble and Ancient House, he would be an ideal mentor to a new Lord.”

“I am more interested in hearing about your recommendation of Fillius Flitwick,” Severus said.

“Master Flitwick is an honored member of the Blackstone clan, a status that is close kept within the Horde,” Knifehand admitted. “He has knowledge of both Wizard and Goblin customs which would be to your benefit. His Dueling skills are superior and he would still be on the Dueling circuit if he was not dedicated to being an instructor at Hogwarts.”

“And, he is a source of information to the Horde on what goes on at Hogwarts and with Albus Dumbledore,” Severus realized.

“That may be true,” Knifehand grinned.

“What does Fili- Professor Flitwick know about being a Lord?” Severus asked, almost slipping and using Flitwick’s first name.

“Master Flitwick knows about being a gentleman,” Knifehand said. “That can be more valuable. There will be a number of things about being a Lord that he will not know, but he will know who will.”

“Someone who is not a Lord can be… unbiased,” Severus murmured.

“Very true,” Knifehand agreed.

“If you could arrange a meeting, that would be appreciated,” Severus requested. “While Professor Flitwick and I have a relationship through Hogwarts, this will be different.”

“I can do that,” Knifehand agreed. “I will plan that for two days from now, if that is acceptable?”

“That would be good,” Severus nodded.

“As to a Healer, there is one recommendation,” Knifehand said. “It is a private practice that functions with utmost discretion. This is the contact information and an initial appointment for tomorrow. There are four Healers that work together, if you find you are uncomfortable with whomever takes you on, you can request to work with someone else within the practice.”

Severus took the parchment offered and looked at the name. Miranda Cassiopeia Black was likely a distant relative of Sirius’. Since Severus didn’t remember her from when he was an adult, it was highly probable that she had been murdered early in the war. While the idea of a female healer was not automatically out of the question, it would be something to get used to.

“I will speak with Healer Black,” Severus agreed. “If we are not compatible, I will ask her for a reference to another in the practice.”

"I will speak to Master Flitwick and owl you a meeting time in two days," Knifehand said.

"That will be good," Severus said. "I am currently staying in a Muggle hotel not too far from the Leaky Cauldron, but there is a small balcony where an owl can wait, if I am not in the room."

On his way down Diagon Alley and seeing an Owl Post office, Severus stepped inside. He purchased a card and envelope and wrote a short note.

Mam, I have an unexpected opportunity to visit with some friends for part of the summer. I likely will not be returning home for-- Severus had to pause and think. Oh, sod it. --the month of July. I will write to you again when I know what my plans are. Your son, Severus

He addressed the envelope and paid the fee to the postmaster. "No reply is required," he said, handing over the envelope. He hoped she would not worry about him.

Chapter Text

After a good night’s sleep, Severus made his way to the address of the Healer’s office. It turned out to be in the same area of London as St. Mungo’s.

“I have an appointment to see Healer Black,” he told the woman in the office.

“She will be right with you,” the woman nodded.

Severus had only been seated a few minutes when a petite woman with dark hair in green Healer’s robes came into the waiting room.

“Lord Prince?” she asked.

Severus nodded and stood.

“I am Healer Black,” she introduced herself. “Please, come back with me.”

Severus followed her into the building. They went up a flight of stairs to the second floor and she ushered him into an office.

“Before I do anything, I’d like to take a few minutes to simply talk,” she said as they sat at a small table off to one side of the room. “Not everyone is comfortable consulting with a female Healer and I thought we’d chat.”

A tea pot, mugs, and a plate of biscuits appeared on the table. She poured tea for both and pushed the plate of sweets at Severus.

“Not to be rude, but you could use some more weight on you,” she said practically. “You probably have at least one more magical maturations to go through and have some growing to do. While you can eat too much, you’re definitely not doing that and would benefit from eating more during the day.”

Severus sipped the tea and took a biscuit from the plate.

“I’m still at Hogwarts but no one has talked about needing to eat more,” Severus admitted.

“The House Elves understand it, which is why the meals are generous,” she replied. “Although you may benefit from snacking during the day, instead of focusing on just three meals a day. A hearty snack between meals and before bedtime will make a difference in how your Magic works.”

Severus thought about that as he chewed. He had frequently skipped meals, not wanting to put up with his fellow Slytherins any more than he had to.

“I will work on that,” Severus nodded.

“What are you looking for in a Healer?” Black asked.

Severus held up his hand to show his Lordship ring. “One of the first things the ring told me was to see a Healer,” he said. “Your advice about eating more often makes sense but it is telling me that there is something, well, ‘wrong’ is not the proper word but definitely not-right with me.”

“Interesting,” she nodded. “Anything more than that?”

Severus shook his head. “I’ve had the basic inoculations for dragon pox and spattergroit. There is, of course, a Mediwitch at Hogwarts but I have not seen her for anything serious. Other than that, I have never seen a Healer.”

“My proposal would be to start with a full health scan,” Black suggested. “That would give the most information and identify any problems that your ring may be concerned about.”

“That is sensible,” Severus agreed.

“Come next door,” she stood. “I’d like you to lie down for this. The prone position gives me the best access to your body and since a full scan will take a few minutes, will also be the most comfortable.”

No one had ever taken the time to explain medical procedures to him, much of what Severus had learned had been by watching or reading occasional books as he was performing research for a potion.

Severus followed Black to the room.

“Take off your robes, shoes, and any jewelry you may have, except your Ring,” she directed. “Then lie on the table.”

Severus was glad to not to have to take off all of his clothes and soon lay back on the table. The cushioning charms adjusted to his position and he relaxed.

“I will begin now,” Black said, looking at Severus.

He nodded.

Black cast an extensive scanning charm, most of which Severus was not familiar with. Some of it, he suspected was actually in Parseltongue, which would have been a reason for Voldemort to have someone like Miranda Black murdered.

Severus closed his eyes as the scan continued. There was a warm presence to the scan, something comforting.

“Stay there for a few minutes, if you’d like, while I have all of this transcribed,” Black directed. “There are some things I need to check on and will need to do another scan on.”

“Anything I should be worried about?” Severus asked.

“I don’t think so, but I do need to double check,” she replied.

“All right,” Severus agreed.

It was almost half an hour before she came back into the room.

“Lord Prince, I’d like to bring in one of my colleagues as a consultant on your case,” Black said. “My specialty is in general health and my colleague has more experience in some specific magical issues than I do.”

“What did you find?” Severus asked. He sat up to better talk with her.

“There seems to be a block on your magical core,” she replied. “Something similar to what is sometimes done to small children, especially if they do not live in a purely magical household.”

“I did grow up in a Muggle area,” Severus admitted. “I… I suppose I still live there.” He hadn’t had time to give thought to his long-term living situation.

“This block is similar,” she said. “The usual block for small children is generally removed before attending Hogwarts or at a point the child exhibits enough self-control to be trusted to not perform magic in public. The block on you is more subtle and I cannot say when it was placed on you.”

Severus frowned. “My mother is a witch, and it is unlikely that she would do such a thing. My father is a Muggle, but I knew from an early age not to do magic in front of him or anyone else.”

“We will try to harvest the signature of the person who placed the block, but the more important task is to remove it,” Black said.

“Please, get the help you need to do so,” Severus replied.

She nodded. “I will be back shortly.”

It was only a few moments before Black returned accompanied by an older man. He was tall and thin, with a balding head but a bright smile.

“So Miranda tells me you have a block we need to look at and have removed,” the man said. He held out a hand. “I’m Eduardo Greengrass. A very minor relation to Lord Greengrass, before you ask.”

“Good to meet you, sir,” Severus shook the warm hand.

“First of all, I’m going to take a closer look at just the block,” Greengrass said. “Once I’ve seen it myself, I can tell you what it will take to have it removed. Assuming you want it removed.”

“Yes, I would like that,” Severus replied.

“Good man!” Greengrass nodded. “All right. Lie back again and try to breathe normally.”

Severus lay back on the table and closed his eyes to be able to focus on his breathing.

This time the scan was almost hot at one point. It never felt threatening, so Severus focused on his breathing.

“All set,” Greengrass said. “You can sit up again.”

Severus opened his eyes and swung around to sit up. He saw Greengrass frowning at a floating display as he called, “Miranda, come look at this.”

Black stood next to him as Greengrass pointed to a section of the results. “Make sure we document this well,” Greengrass directed. He turned to Severus. “This is a not-quite-Dark bit of magic. If I’m reading this correctly, its purpose is not only to suppress your magical ability but to shape your personality.”

Severus frowned. “Why would someone do something like that?”

“The block is sometimes used on patients with severe personality disorders,” Greengrass said. “It’s to make them… suggestible as well as to suppress some parts of their basic personalty. To put such a block on a child would dampen their magic and give them sociopathic tendencies.”

Severus felt a frisson of fear crawl up his spine.

“Will you be able to tell who did this to me?” Severus demanded.

“The most important part is to remove the block immediately. We will try our best to preserve the magical signature,” Greengrass said. “To apply this block to someone like yourself can be considered assault and even Line Theft, since it would affect your relationship with others and your status as Lord Prince.”

Lily! Severus immediately thought. This cursed block could be why he called her a Mudblood. It was something of a relief to know it was unlikely something he would have done on his own.

“Whatever you need,” Severus replied, knowing the money in Gringotts would do him no good if he wasn’t alive to spend it.

“Excellent!” Greengrass clapped his hands, almost in glee. “We have a ritual space in the building that I will use for this. Miranda, make sure Lord Prince has a meal first and then a Relaxing Draught.”

“I will,” Black promised.

“You can do this now?" Severus asked in surprise. He held up a hand. "My apologies, I do not know enough about rituals and am not questioning your ability."

Greengrass nodded. "I'll be doing a relatively simple ritual," he said. "It doesn't take an entire conclave and Miranda can easily hold the wards while I work."

"All right," Severus nodded, mostly going with the flow at the moment.

"A meal and then the draught," Greengrass said as he left the room.

Chapter Text

"Anything in particular you'd like to eat?" Black asked him gently.

Severus shook his head. "I'm not fussy," he replied. "A sandwich, or some variation of a Ploughman's lunch?"

"That's simple enough," she nodded. "Let's go back to my office where we have a table. It gives me a chance to have a meal also."

Black had a House Elf bring them soup and sandwiches. Severus ate a bowl of beef barley soup and a thick ham sandwich and washed it all down with a large glass of lemonade.

"Had enough?" Black asked.

Severus nodded. "Plenty. Thank you."

She got up and went into the other room. She brought back a vial and handed it to Severus. "This is the Relaxing Draught you need to take. If you take it now, it will make the ritual easier."

Severus opened the vial and took a small sniff.

Black raised an eyebrow. "You have questions about the draught?"

Severus shook his head. "No. But I have plans to become a potions master and I am always interested in learning more about the potions I take."

"Good plan," she nodded. "That is a draught I brew myself from an old family recipe. Come back next summer and we can discuss a possible internship. It is rare that anyone your age can identify potions that way and it is a skill that should be honed."

Startled, Severus could only nod. He downed the draught and handed the vial back to Black.

"Come. We'll go to the ritual space before it fully takes effect and makes it harder for you to move," she directed. "We can wait for Eduardo there."

Severus followed Black down the stairs to the first floor and then down into a basement level that was magically enlarged. The ceilings had to be four meters high and the area was definitely larger than the building.

"Nice, isn't it?" Black said at Severus' look.

"It is," he agreed.

"There is a ritual robe you can use in the cleansing room." Black pointed to a walled off area. "Wait for the mist to fall before you put on the robe. When you're ready, come back out here."

Severus nodded. He put his clothes on a shelf in the cleansing room and stood in the mist that rose as he stepped into the cistern. He waited for the mist to fall as indicated and then donned the robe that was hanging on a hook.

Black nodded. "Have you ever been part of a ritual before?"

"I have not," Severus admitted.

"Good to know. The first part is the cleansing, which you have just done," she explained. "Since you are the subject in this, you will not have to do much more than that. You will come over here and lay at the center of the circle." She pointed to a raised, flat space. "It has charms to make it more comfortable than it looks."

Severus moved to lie back on the surface and found that it was comfortable.

"Eduardo will actually perform the ritual," Black continued. "He will be here in the circle with you. I will be outside the circle and will cast and hold the wards. The wards are generally just a precaution but, as with anything, one never knows."

"Are the wards to keep us in or keep others out?" Severus asked.

She shrugged. "Both, sometimes. In this case, it's more to prevent any backlash from the release of the binding on you. So, more of keeping something in. That will also allow us a chance to capture the magical signature of whomever put the binding on you."

"I would be interested in knowing who did that," Severus said. "While my Mam did attend Hogwarts and my Da hates magic, I would not think she would have done such a thing."

"We shall see what we find out," Black said. "Eduardo will be coming shortly but this is your time to relax fully and, if you know how, to meditate. The more relaxed and calm you are, the easier this will be."

"I will do that, thank you," Severus replied. He closed his eyes to meditate and he heard her footsteps move away from him. A little while later, he heard Greengrass' voice as he came into the ritual space.

The Relaxation Draught had taken effect and Severus didn't have the energy to open his eyes as he heard Greengrass move closed.

Greengrass touched Severus' forehead gently. "You will be fine. I'm going to start now."

Severus struggled and gave a small nod.

"Good man!" Greengrass said. Severus heard the words of the ritual as if from a distance. It went on for an unknowable length of time and there was a sudden wash of heat throughout his body that dissipated as rapidly as it had appeared.

The next thing Severus knew was that he was back in the second floor examination room. He was under a warm blanket and feeling quite lethargic.

"Back with us?" Black asked cheerfully. "Don't fight it, that was quite the block someone had put on you and you need time to recover."

"Sleepy," Severus muttered.

"That is about right," she said. "Go back to sleep and take as much time as you need. If I'm not here, there will be a House Elf listening for you."

"All ri'," Severus said as he turned over and fell back asleep.

The next Severus knew it was daylight and, from the direction of the sun through the edges of the curtains, it was morning. He moved in the comfortable bed.

"Master Prince is awake!" a House Elf said. "I let Mistress Miranda know!"

Before Severus could react, he heard the 'pop' that indicated the Elf had left. He realized he was naked under the blanket and started to blush. He knew Healers dealt with bodies regularly but his teen-aged self wasn't quite sure how to handle that. Before he could move, Black strode into the room.

"Mimsy told me you woke up," she said. "How do you feel?"

"Still tired but... lighter?" Severus said.

"That is to be expected," she admitted. "That binding was deeply entrenched in your core and you suffered from a minor core fracture that is healing nicely. You should be fine in a day or two."

"Did you get a signature?" Severus asked.

Black shook her head. "Not a full signature, unfortunately. Eduardo was furious on your behalf when he was done, but it had been placed too long ago to get a full signature. He did preserve what he could but older and male is about all that is reliable."

"Not my Mam, then," Severus said.

"Definitely not," Black agreed.

"How long ago?" Severus asked with a frown.

"At least ten years," she replied. "You were probably four or five when it was applied."

Severus shook his head. "I have no idea who might..."

As his voice trailed off, Black kept quiet to let him think.

"I was young enough not to have a clear memory of it but my Mam did take me to what she called a Healer," Severus said slowly, trying to tease the memory out. "Da was gone to work and she called it an adventure." He looked up at Black. "But I don't remember anything else about that day."

"Memory charms, most likely," she nodded. "So even if you might remember about the day, you could not recall who was involved."

Severus rubbed his forehead in frustration.

"Not something we're going to solve today!" Black said. "Your clothes are there and Mimsy is bringing breakfast. Eat first and then I'll do another diagnostic."

Black left the room and Severus donned his clothes. He suspected the House Elves had cleaned the clothes overnight, since they smelled fresh and were unwrinkled.

The table in the other room was set with several dishes and Severus was suddenly famished. He eagerly made a plate of eggs, bacon, beans, and toast. He slathered the toast in jam and fell to eating.

"Better?" Black asked, amused.

"Definitely!" Severus nodded.

"You will find that you will have an even larger appetite for a few weeks," Black explained. "That's a combination of lifting the block as well as a coming magical maturation. Eduardo and I have talked and think you will have at least two more at this point."

"Two? Isn't that unusual?" Severus asked.

"It is and it isn't," Black nodded. "We have records that show magical beings regularly having four, or even more, maturations. The more recent trend of one or perhaps two is an indication of a decrease in magical ability over time."

Ah! That was at least part of what Zirnitra was referring to. Hobbling the magical ability in a generation of children would certainly contribute to the decline of magic.

"If I may put forth a thought, you may want to check others of my age for the same block. Especially Muggleborn or Half-Bloods," Severus suggested. "I cannot be the only person this was done to."

Black looked startled and then her eyes narrowed in thought. "Who? Who would do such a thing?"

"Someone who did not want to be challenged," Severus said. "Three magical maturations should put me at arch-magus power levels."

"That's... not good," Black replied.

"You only found my block because I came for a general health review," Severus replied. "I suspect a complete diagnostic is rarely performed on most people."

"True," she nodded. "I will definitely discuss that theory with Eduardo and the rest of the members of our practice." She clapped her hands together. "Ready for another check?"

Severus nodded. He had eaten enough to feel very full. It was more than he usually ate and would have to work up to larger meals over the summer.

They went back to the examination room.

"Lie back on the bed, please," Black directed. The House Elves had to have cleaned up the room while they were eating breakfast. The warm blanket was gone and the bed changed back to an examination table.

Severus watched as she performed the diagnostic charm.

"May I have a copy of that?" Severus thought to ask. "I know I will not understand some of it but it is also a way to learn to understand what is going on with my own health."

"Certainly!" Black nodded. "Very few Wixen take a close interest in their general health."

"At this point, I am not surprised," Severus replied.

"You're doing fine," Black announced when the diagnostic was done. "The small fracture in your core is largely healed. I do recommend you do not do any strenuous magic over the next three or four days. But, do a Lumos for me, so we can check your levels."

Severus retrieved his wand from his robes and held it up. "Lumos!"

Severus blinked at the intensity of the light. "Nox." The light went out.

"All right," Black said. "I suspect that is much brighter than you would normally get."

"Is it," Severus admitted.

"Try it again and see if you can cast a different light," she directed.

Severus took a breath before he said a controlled, "Lumos."

"Much better!" she said. "You're going to find most of your wand work will be over-powered until you become used to your new levels. At your age, you can explain it as having had a recent maturation and you are adjusting to your new levels."

Severus nodded. Having a ready explanation would be helpful.

"Come back in... two weeks. Although you are welcome to come back at without an appointment if you are concerned. Send an owl and if I'm not available, someone from the practice will meet with you," Black directed. "I will want to do another diagnostic to ensure that the core fracture is healed as well as to check on your general health."

"I can do that," Severus agreed.

"Let me take you downstairs and Anabelle will give you an appointment," Black said. As they walked through the outer office, she snagged an apple from the table. "You'll be hungry again soon. It will be worthwhile to keep some food on you at all times."

"Good to know," Severus agreed as he slipped the apple into a pocket of his robe.

With an appointment made, Severus found himself on the streets of London with plenty of time before his afternoon meeting at the bank.

Severus found himself at something of a loss as to what to do next. He had just eaten and it was too early for lunch. He decided it was simplest to go back to his hotel room and he could indulge in some simple reading time.

His stomach woke him from the nap he had inadvertently taken. Reading in bed was something that would never happen at Spinner's End, so indulging in the opportunity to do so had resulted in an unexpected nap.

Chapter Text

Severus took a hot shower, put on clean clothes and made his way to Diagon Alley. He cast a quick Tempus and decided he had time for a quick visit to Fortescue's for an ice cream cone to eat on his way to the Bank. He grinned. Healer Black did say he was to eat more often.

Severus finished his treat just as he entered the Bank. A quiet cleanup spell before he went to the teller allowed him to be presentable. He was quickly escorted to Knifthand's office.

"Lord Prince," Knifehand greeted him. "What can you share about your experience with the Healers?"

"Beyond some nutritional needs, it turns out I had a block on my magic," Severus replied. "Healer Greengrass removed it in a ritual and has captured a partial magical signature. He said it would not only interfere with my magic but also my personality."

Knifehand looked fierce for a moment. "Who would do such a thing?"

"I have no idea," Severus said. "Although I have not had a chance to meditate on it, I have a mostly forgotten memory of my Mam taking me somewhere on what she called an adventure but then nothing more about that day. Healer Black theorized that a Memory Charm may have been used so I would not remember."

"When you see Healer Black next, please let him know she can call on the Horde for a consultation in this matter," Knifehand replied with a growl.

Surprised, Severus was momentarily nonplussed, "I... I will."

"Not on you," Knifehand assured him. "But there have been other Wizarding youths who have suffered similar blocks over the past few years. This is the first time that anyone has been able to capture any part of the magical signature of the caster. The Horde has been quietly searching for more information about this abomination against Magic."

Oh! Severus wondered if this was something Zirnitra knew anything about. It was doubtful that Voldemort was behind this, it was too subtle to be Voldemort. Could it be Dumbledore? Something to go with his greater good campaign? Or, a terrifying thought, yet someone else working behind the scenes, someone who had hidden behind the decimation that Voldemort had created.

Something he'd have to discuss with Zirnitra, if he ever came to visit. He'd have to think about calling for the God, when he had some privacy.

There was a tap at the door. "Master Flitwick has arrived," the guard announced.

"Are you ready?" Knifehand asked.

Severus gave a nod.

"Show Master Flitwick in," Knifehand directed.

Severus watched as the Charms professor strolled into the room. He gave a nod to Knifehand and turned to face Severus.

"Mr. Snape," Flitwick said with a formal bow. "Good to see you." He sat on a chair next to Severus.

"It is now Lord Prince," Knifehand announced.

Flitwick gave a small nod. "Lord Prince," he grinned. "I am given to understand that you are looking for a mentor?"

"I am, sir," Severus replied. "My new... station requires a number of things I have no experience with and other obligations I do not even know exist. I am seeking assistance in learning more about what is and is not appropriate, as well as learning more about the obligations I now have."

"That is a good approach," Flickwick replied. "Although there will be a number of your obligations I will not know anything about."

"I doubt that there are any adults in the Prince family to guide me and I do not want to have my inexperience and lack of knowledge taken advantage of," Severus went on. "I am primarily looking for someone who will be a mentor and, hopefully, over time, a confidante." Severus knew from before that he and Flitwick would get along well but he had to remember that friendship took several years to develop.

Flitwick sat back in his chair and looked Severus over.

"You have a... goal," Flitwick said. "Can you share that with us?"

Severus considered what he could and could not say. "While I do not consider myself talented in Divination, I had a... dream, one might say. The primary message was that Voldemort is more than a Dark Lord, he is a threat to Magic."

Knifehand sat up straighter. "Such has been whispered in the Horde," he admitted. "What can you tell us?"

"Voldemort was born Tom Marvolo Riddle," Severus said baldly. He wandlessly recreated the anagram that Zirnitra performed for him. "Additionally, Voldemort is a Half-Blood. His mother was a witch who was the last of the Gaunt line and his father was a Muggle. His proclamations of Pure Blood supremacy is... jealousy, I would guess."

Knifehand hissed and Flitwick looked shocked.

"Do you have any proof of this?" Knifehand demanded.

"No," Severus shook his head. "Which is why I am seeking assistance and mentorship. If this is true, sharing this information publicly would help to discredit Voldemort. But where and how to verify this information is outside of my current abilities."

"I remember Tom Riddle," Flitwick said slowly. "He attended Hogwarts and I had him as a student. He was a talented wizard and was Head Boy in his Seventh Year." A moment of thought. "He was a favorite of Horace Slughorn's and a member of his Slug Club."

"Would Professor Slughorn have more information about Riddle?" Knifehand asked.

Flitwick shrugged. "Perhaps? Although we do not discuss it, Horace is for Horace. He only does something if he will benefit from it."

"Potions ingredients?" Severus said. "I... I seem to have money. Perhaps we can... exchange potion ingredients for information."

Knifehand snickered. "An excellent option!"

Flitwick nodded. "While you are not currently a member of his Slug Club, your new status as Lord Prince will make you much more interesting to Horace. We may be able to use that to our advantage."

"I will keep that in mind," Severus replied. But he also remembered that Lily had been a member of the Slug Club, simply for her Potions ability. He suspected Sirius Black would have been approached but would have turned Horace down if Lupin was not included.

"I will discuss this with my colleagues," Knifehand said.

"And I will be glad to mentor you, Lord Prince," Flitwick said. "I think we have several common goals and I would be delighted to work on them with you."

"Thank you, sir," Severus gave a small nod.

Knifehand handed them each a scroll. "This is a standard mentorship contract," he said. "You should both read it carefully and discuss any changes you would like to make. While a contract is not required, it will protect you from... others."

Dumbledore, Severus thought immediately.

Flitwick nodded. "Thank you. I was going to ask for a template to work from," he said. He turned to Severus. "Let's start with dinner? I don't have any plans for the evening."

"I would like that," Severus agreed. "I am currently living in Muggle London. If you are comfortable there, we could have a quiet dinner somewhere near my hotel."

"Do you want to stay there or are you interested in other accommodations?" Knifehand asked. "You certainly can afford to stay where you are or the Bank has properties here on Diagon Alley that you could lease for the summer."

"I would be interested in what might be available," Severus admitted. "What I have is more than adequate but I am open to options."

"I will owl you a list," Knifehand said.

"Thank you," Severus replied.

Flitwick stood. "Is there an Indian restaurant near you? If not, I know one in another part of London. I keep asking the House Elves for curry and they don't quite have the hang of it."

"There is a restaurant I have not been to yet," Severus said. "I would be interested in trying it."

Outside the Leaky, Severus pointed. "This way."

"I don't get out to Muggle London, or even other Muggle areas, as much as I should," Flitwick admitted. "Many of the students in Ravenclaw are Half Bloods or even Muggle Born, and being more aware of what is going on in the Muggle world is important."

"As a thought, there could be delivery of the Muggle newspapers," Severus said. "Students might appreciate that."

"Excellent idea!" Flitwick said. "It would be simple enough to arrange. I don't know why we don't do that."

Dumbledore, Severus thought. The topic had been brought up at several Staff meetings and Dumbledore always stopped it from happening. Maybe this was the opportunity to simply make the arrangement and not ask permission.

"Perhaps the Bank would assist in that?" Severus suggested. If the Horde was involved, it would be harder for Dumbledore to put a stop to it.

"That is a good suggestion," Flitwick said with a wry grin.

They arrived at the restaurant. Flitwick leaned in and took a deep breath. "Smells wonderful. Let's see what's on offer today."

They got a quiet table off to one side. The young woman who showed them to the table gave them menus and wandered off. Another young woman dressed in something that resembled a sari came over to the table. She took their order and bustled to the kitchen. They soon had several steaming dishes in front of them.

Severus put up a Muffliato to allow them to converse in privacy.

"Nice charm!" Flitwick said.

Oh! Severus didn't know when he had started to use that charm.

"It's something I had been tinkering with," Severus replied.

"It's simple and clever," Flitwick countered. "We can add that sort of thing to the list of projects we might work on. New charms like that are always a welcome addition and they can be marketable."

Severus felt himself blushing. "I would like that," he admitted.

"Tell me more about what you are looking for," Flitwick said. "There will be things that come up over time, but I suspect you have a list we can start with."

Severus nodded. "I know I need to look like 'Lord Prince'," he said. "That means very different clothes from what I usually wear, at the very least. I've bought some new Muggle clothes, but I most likely should have some bespoke Muggle suits. The Prince holdings include some Muggle businesses and I will need to deal with that at some point."

"The Horde is managing your businesses?" Flitwick asked.

"Much of it," Severus nodded. "But my Lordship is only a few days old and I have not had time to check it all out. I was not aware of the scale of the Prince estate, since I assumed I was disowned from the family and did not expect to inherit."

Flitwick nodded. "The Horde certainly can manage much of that for you. We will have to check to see if you have Muggle representatives. There may be bankers or barristers to handle the Muggle side of the estate."

"I have not had time to get to that," Severus said. "I have an account book from the family Vault that I have started to go through. There is quite an array of goods in the Vault but that book does not tell me about the business interests of the estate."

"You should see if there is a Family Grimoire," Flitwick suggested. "If one exists, that might have more information in it."

"I will go to the Vault and see if one exits," Severus said. "I know there is a Prince Manor but I have not had time to get there as yet." A realization. "I don't even know if there are other family members there. Since my mother left her family and was formally disowned before I was born, I have not had any contact with my Prince relatives as I grew up."

"One of the things we can do is to take the time to make a list and decide what needs to be done now and what can wait," Flitwick said. "It is a practical approach and will help you decide what should be done now, what might be delegated to others, and what can wait until you have time."

"I don't have to do everything myself," Severus said slowly. He sat back in his chair. The relief he felt at making that statement was profound.

"Exactly!" Flitwick beamed. "You have been left on your own by your family, and your peers, and you are used to managing everything yourself. Asking for a mentorship is the first step in learning what you should and should not do yourself."

Severus finished up his plate of food, thinking of what tasks he could delegate to others. He would have to start making lists. He had bought a notebook the other day, he'd have to make better use of it.

Deciding it might be a good time to ask, Severus said, "I have a delicate, personal matter that I need some advice on."

"Yes? Go on."

Severus found himself coloring again. "I was unspeakably rude to Lily Evans, just before the end of the semester. I was... there were others involved but I offended Lily and I would like to try to make amends before classes start."

Flitwick rubbed his forehead. "Making an educated guess. James Potter and Sirius Black were involved?"

Severus nodded.

"I will speak to Albus about them. Yet again. Their names and their station should not shield them from punishment. Professor McGonagall and I have spoken up on your behalf several times, but the Headmaster will do nothing and says it is simply 'boys being boys.'"

Severus knew Dumbledore had never punished Potter or Black but he had not known that Filius or Minerva had advocated for him.

Flitwick's eyes danced in some merriment. "Your new station as Lord Prince will give you some advantage, socially. They are Heirs but you are Lord of your family. You currently out-rank them."

"I... I had not considered that," Severus admitted.

"Potter and Black are both Ancient and Noble, and Prince is Ancient," Flitwick continued. "When they become the Lord of their House, they will outrank you. But that could be years."

Severus considered. James Potter had not lived long enough to claim the Lordship of the House of Potter. Harry had not done so, primarily because he had been busy fighting Voldemort. Black had still been a fugitive from the Ministry when he died, so that Lordship should also have gone to Harry. Even Severus did not wish the Lordship of two Ancient and Noble houses on Harry Potter.

"In the meantime, I need to apologize to Lily," Severus re-focused the discussion on that problem. "I do not even know where to start."

"Ah! Apologizing to women is a long tradition for the male of the species," Flitwick gave a grin. "Since it is the summer and she may not be willing to see you, I would recommend you start by sending a letter. This happened just before the end of the school year, you say?"

Severus nodded.

"Send it soon," Flitwick said. "It does not have to be flowery or overly long but it does need to be sincere."

"I can do that," Severus agreed. He was surprised he had not thought of that the first time around, although the block on his magic that affected his personality might have something to do with it.

"Then you may want to follow it up with something tangible, as a second apology," Flitwick continued. "Knowing Miss Evans, I would think something like an advanced Charms book would be welcome."

"Could you recommend something to me?" Severus asked. "Something that she might not look for on her own but something that would be interesting to read?"

"I have several books I could recommend," Flitwick nodded. "I will get you a list."

"Thank you. That would be welcome," Severus nodded. "What do we do next?"

"We each go over the mentor contract," Flitwick replied. "You have the larger portion and should consider what you would and would not like from me. Take time tomorrow to make a list of what you would like assistance with. In the meantime, I will set up an appointment with a tailor. I have one in mind that does both Wizarding robes and Muggle suits and I will see if he can fit you in."

Severus nodded. "That would be good."

"Anything else for tonight?" Flitwick asked.

"Not that I can think of," Severus replied. He took the check. "Let me show my appreciation."

"And that is something we will work out in the future," Flitwick said. "But thank you for dinner. I look forward to working with you."

"Thank you for being willing to help me," Severus said.

They parted on the street. Severus walked back to his hotel and Flitwick went to an apparition point that was in the opposite direction.

A post owl waited outside his room. He apologized, "I'm sorry, I have no treats for you." He removed the scroll from the owl and it took off without waiting for a response.

The scroll contained a list of properties owned by the Bank that he could lease for the rest of the summer. There was a second page with a list of properties owned by the Prince estate.

Severus reviewed the list. While money was no longer a problem and he could afford to stay in the Muggle hotel for the rest of the summer, he needed to consider what he really wanted. What was interesting was that one of the properties owned by the Bank was an apartment above what would be Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes in the future. It was on Diagon Alley, in the center of the business district and half-way between the Bank and the Leaky Cauldron. The location made it tempting.

The Prince properties were largely outside of London. Although it was interesting to find that the estate owned the home that his parents lived in. He was his own landlord. It was a briefly amusing thought. But it also explained how they had not been evicted when his Da was not working. Someone in the family was looking out for his mother.

Deciding to deal with the letter to LIly, Severus got out some parchment and started to draft a letter. It took him several attempts to write something that seemed appropriate.

Lily,

I have an explanation but no excuses for the way I treated you recently. Calling you that name is inexcusable, no matter what else may be going on.

I would appreciate the opportunity to make an apology to you in person. You are entitled to hear the explanation and, to be honest, I miss your friendship.

We could meet in a public space of your choosing. A park near your home or perhaps I could offer to buy you a sundae at Fortescue's, if you will be near Diagon Alley. But, please, feel free to chose any location where you will be comfortable meeting with me.

With sincere apologies,

Severus

It wasn't the best but, well, he was really fifteen. With that in mind, he went to Diagon Alley to hire a Post owl to send it to Lily.

He handed over his letter and hoped Lily would at least read it.

Severus slept heavily that night. He assumed some of that was part of the recovery from the ritual that Healer Greengrass had performed.

Chapter Text

Not having to be anywhere in the morning was a luxury Severus was unaccustomed to. At home, he was expected to be up for breakfast and then doing something helpful or going somewhere that was not home. He enjoyed the chance to lie in. He only got up when housekeeping tapped on the door.

"I'm fine for today," Severus told the chambermaid. "You can skip me for today."

"Thank you, sir," she nodded. "Do call the desk if you find you need anything."

"I will," Severus replied as he closed the door.

Severus took a long shower, wondering if he should think about living somewhere in the Wizarding world. He could take a long bath and the tiny tub here was not conducive to that. He could enlarge it magically, but that would likely be awkward in the Muggle hotel.

He put the mentor contract and a pad of paper in a pocket. He should work on that today.

Hungry, Severus stopped at the front desk. "I'm looking to treat a friend to lunch soon and would like to try out someplace... nice before then. Can you give me some suggestions?"

"Certainly!" the woman replied cheerfully. "While I'm supposed to remind you of our restaurant, for a special lunch here's a list we provide." She handed him a sheet of paper. "All of them are nice and are in different areas of the city, depending on where your friend is coming from."

"This is helpful," Severus said. "Thank you!"

Looking the list over, Severus picked slightly at random. There was a restaurant that offered 'real Italian' food. He'd try that out.

Severus stepped into a well lit but not garish restaurant. He saw a young man who looked up as Severus walked in.

"May I help you?" the young man asked.

"I'm looking to treat a friend to lunch soon and this was recommended to me by my hotel," Severus said. "I have no idea what 'real Italian' food might be, so I thought I'd like to try it out first."

"Ah!" the young man grinned. "I will seat you with Maria and she will help you!"

Lunch took three hours, Maria -- who was old enough to be his grandmother -- insisting that the cook provide Severus with small servings of several dishes.

"In Northern Italy, we love our cream sauces, stuffed meats, and savory polenta," Maria explained. "Having some of each dish will give you a feel for a variety of dishes."

"I place myself in your capable hands," Severus nodded.

Maria brought dishes, suggested wines in spite of his age, and told him stories of her life in Italy. Severus was entertained by the stories she told. He realized this was something he never would have done before, even if he had the money. That block on his magic truly was heinous -- he had missed so much life had to offer.

"This has all been lovely," Severus said as he drank a small coffee at the end of the meal. "I have learned much and I definitely will be bringing my friend here."

"You come back on your own, too," Maria said. "It is not often that we have patrons that are interested in learning about the food."

Severus left carrying a package with desserts in it, too full to even try anything at the moment. He cast a discreet stasis charm on the food, so he could eat it later. He walked about London, eyeing the homes and shops, making note of things he would like to learn more about when he had time.

He took a break in a small library he came upon. The cool air and the smell of books was too much to resist and he slipped inside. He found an empty table and rolled out the mentor contract for review. In the end, he had only a few small changes that he would request and pocketed the document.

His stroll took him to an entertainment district and stood in front of a movie theatre. The marquee announced the movie "Midway" and Severus found himself intrigued. Luckily, the next show was starting in less than thirty minutes, so he bought a ticket and went inside. Not really hungry, Severus purchased a soda and a box of chocolate candies.

Severus felt dazed as he walked out of the theatre two and a half hours later. While he knew that movies were made-up stories, there were too many things roiling around in his head to understand. He needed some Muggle history books to verify that there was even a battle at Midway. He knew from grade school that World War II had been fought on the continent and 'elsewhere' but the existence of ships and planes and weapons at the scale portrayed in the movie was unimaginable.

Severus shook himself. He could go to a library and see about checking out some books. Huh. Or he could contact Flourish and Blotts and simply purchase what he was interested in.

Deciding he was finished wandering for the day, he headed back to the hotel. An owl was waiting patiently on his balcony.

"Oh, you need a reply, don't you?" Severus asked.

The owl hooted.

"Let me see what you have," Severus said as he took the scroll from the owl.

Severus. Apologies for the late notice, but I have found an appointment at a tailor for tomorrow at ten in the morning. If that is acceptable, send a note back, and I will meet you at the Leaky Cauldron at half nine. Otherwise we can have an appointment at the end of next week.

Having no specific plans, Severus sent back a note. Tomorrow works fine. I will meet you in the morning. I also have some small changes to the mentorship contract, perhaps we could have lunch after and discuss that? Severus handed the note to the owl who took off with it.

Going back to Diagon Alley would let Severus stop at the bookstore as well as Eelyops to get some owl treats to have on hand.

Severus got up early to have breakfast at the Leaky. He sat far enough from the door so that casual patrons would be less likely to notice him but he could see the various entrances when Flitwick came in. Having time, he splurged on the full English breakfast and ate heartily.

Flitwick arrived promptly at half nine, just as Severus finished eating. He drank down the last of the coffee and stood to get Flitwick's attention.

"Excellent!" Flitwick said. "We can stroll to our appointment. It's past the Bank on the other end of the Alley."

Flitwick directed Severus down the Alley to a building where they went up to the second floor. What would be multiple apartments in other buildings was a large, open workspace. Tables pushed against the wall were piled to the tall ceiling with fabric of many colors and textures. A set of mannequins staged around the room were partially dressed in robes, suits, dresses, and gowns that were in various steps of creation.

"Master Weaver Will Antony, may I introduce Lord Severus Prince," Flitwick said with a small flourish.

"Lord Prince!" Antony said cheerfully. "I am so pleased to meet you." He held out a hand that Severus shook.

Antony was in that not-young/not-old stage that wizards anywhere from forty to ninety fell into. He had a head of blond curly hair and was as tall as Severus currently was. The deceptively simple white shirt that was open at the collar looked soft and inviting against lightly tanned skin while professional at the same time. Pleated tan slacks draped over slim hips and loafers on his feet completed the outfit. Severus wished he could look like that.

"And I, you," Severus replied. "My thanks for meeting with us."

"When Filius explained your situation, I could not resist squeezing you in," Antony admitted. "I'm looking forward to helping you with your wardrobe. Please, come and have some tea while we discuss what you need."

"That will be good," Severus replied.

They sat around a small table where hot tea and a plate of scones appeared.

"Now, I understand you need a full wardrobe?" Antony said as he picked up a badly disguised Muggle fountain pen. He laughed as he saw Severus identify his writing implement. "Muggles have made this so much easier!"

"I do agree," Severus smiled.

"As I told you, Severus has recently come into his role as Lord Prince," Flitwick said. "As such, he needs both Wizarding and Muggle clothing that befit his station."

Antony nodded. "I'm going to ask the most important question first, do you have a set budget?"

"I... maybe not?" Severus admitted. "I have no idea what robes and suits and... things... cost. I'm still a student at Hogwarts, so I need a small assortment of clothing to start. I can add to the wardrobe as I become more accustomed to the Lordship."

"That is reasonable," Antony replied.

"He will need Wizengamot robes," Flitwick added.

Antony grinned. "Oh, excellent!" He turned to Severus. "The Wizengamot actually pays for that, so those robes will not go on your final bill."

"I did not know that!" Severus replied.

"Several members of the Wizengamot come to me," Antony replied. "I make sure the robes are comfortable because they honestly look atrocious."

"That is good to know," Severus nodded. And Wizengamot robes were atrocious looking.

"I see you have reasonably acceptable Muggle clothing," Antony said, nodding at the shirt and slacks Severus had worn under his best school robes. "That is good for everyday and while you are in school."

"I recently purchased those, since I had little to start with," Severus admitted, relieved he hadn't purchased anything deemed to be awful.

"Tell me what sort of thing you are looking for," Antony said. "No detail is too small."

Severus took a breath. He had to think beyond the black robes he wore constantly while teaching at Hogwarts.

"It doesn't have to be traditional but I prefer simple," Severus started. "Maybe low-key is a better word? Good-looking and definitely not gaudy." He gave a small shiver at the thought of some of the robes Dumbledore had worn. "I will admit to a tendency to wear a lot of black clothes and know I should expand that but only slightly. At least to start." He shrugged. "Black is practical and wears well but I do know I should consider other options." And a set of identical black robes had been inexpensive, something Severus no longer had to consider as much.

"What kind of interests do you have?" Antony asked. "What do you like to do?"

"I have an... aptitude for Potions," Severus almost slipped and said Mastery which would be very confusing.

"Severus is talented in Charms and Transfiguration, also," Flitwick added. "He will be taking N.E.W.T.s in those areas and he should do well."

Curiously flattered, Severus took a breath. "I have just had a magical maturation and have been told by my Healers to expect some physical growth over the next year. I should gain both height and weight. So tailoring charms for that potential growth will be required."

"You are fifteen?" Antony asked.

"I am," Severus replied.

"I'm going to think you may have another maturation in you," Antony said with a small squint, as if he was looking at something he couldn't quite see. "Hmmm.... I'm going to recommend a smaller wardrobe than I might otherwise. If you'll be going through a second maturation, you'll be pushing the limits of the tailoring charms I normally put into robes for someone your age."

Severus took a breath at that. It was interesting that Antony had come to the same conclusion as the Healers, without the same information. "That is... reasonable," Severus nodded.

"Do you want anything... fun is not quite the word I want to use but something that is not sober?" Antony asked. "Something for parties or clubbing?"

"I rarely go to parties or clubs," Severus shook his head.

"As Lord Prince, there will be invitations," Flitwick advised. "You don't need an entire trunkful of such clothes but you should have something to wear when you are invited out."

Severus had not considered that his position would generate such a thing. "I... maybe an outfit or two that can be charmed to change color?" Severus replied. "I am not sure of what I will need there."

Antony nodded. "Okay, let me summarize where I will start," he said, taking notes. "New school robes, those are straightforward. How about three sets of formal robes, three formal Muggle suits, three informal, fun, outfits, and the Wizengamot robes? And appropriate shirts, ties, and so on to go with everything. The formal robes can be darker colors, at least one in a deep blue, and let me see what I can come up with for the other two, I have some ideas you may like. The same thing for the Muggle suits. All with tailoring charms that should last you for the school year."

"That feels overwhelming," Severus admitted. "But, yes, it is a good start."

"Okay, now for some measurements," Antony said. "You can leave your robes on the chair. Come over here and I'll ask you to take off your shirt, slacks, and shoes. You can leave your underthings on. Oh. What about shoes?"

"I have some Muggle shoes I recently purchased, but I would like to think about some dress boots," Severus replied as he took off the robe before walking across the room.

"I would delay getting anything special," Antony admitted as he showed Severus to a partitioned off area so he could disrobe more privately. "Again, if you have another maturation, your feet will also change. I can provide some good dress shoes that will be good for the next year."

Severus nodded. He hung his clothes on a stand that was in the space and stood on a small riser.

"This will only take a minute. Hold out your arms and spread your feet about shoulder width apart," Antony said. He brought out a measuring tape and tossed it in Severus' direction. The tape flew through the air and wound itself around Severus limbs, measuring circumference as well as length. There were many more measurements that he had ever had in his fittings at Madam Malkins.

The tape finally moved in front of Severus, coiled itself up and flew back to Antony.

"You can dress again," he said.

Severus was grateful to do so. He realized he used clothing as armor and needed to think about what that meant.

"I'm going to ask you to come back Thursday afternoon for a fitting," Antony said. "I'll have some pieces ready by then and want to see them on you before I make up everything."

"I can do that," Severus nodded.

"Will you need me for that?" Flitwick asked.

"Not unless you want to come," Antony replied.

"I have found an interesting Italian restaurant that I would like to share with you," Severus said. "It is Muggle, but I went there yesterday and the food is excellent."

"That would be good!" Flitwick nodded. "I will meet you here, then and when you're finished we can go to dinner."

Severus turned to Antony. "If you will be finished for the day, you are welcome to come with us."

Antony looked pleased to be included. "It sounds like fun! Thank you!"

Severus realized that the other-him would never have met anyone like Will Antony, much less invited the man to dinner. He had missed out on so much in his life.

They settled on a time and Severus and Flitwick were back on Diagon Alley.

"You had some changes to the mentorship contract?" Flitwick asked. "We can get a room at the bank or go out on the street to find a coffee shop to sit in."

"A room at the bank, since we are right here, would be fine," Severus replied. "It will give us more privacy."

"Certainly!" Flitwick nodded. "I brought my own suggestions, also."

Knifehand was busy with another Vault holder but the guard showed them to a small room they could use.

"I really only have minor changes," Severus admitted, bringing out his copy of the contract.

"That is all I have, also," Flitwick replied. "Let's go over this."

They talked amiably about the changes, Severus appreciating the time Flitwick took to explain some the the implications of the changes. A truly fifteen-year-old Severus would have been totally at a loss but the adult-Severus appreciated the care involved.

"I think we are all set," Flitwick decided. "We can leave these for Knifehand, he will formalize them into a clean copy of the contract. We can sign that when he is ready."

"Thank you," Severus nodded.

"This is more fun than I've had in a long time," Flitwick admitted.

"I ask for some practical advice," Severus said. "I'm currently living in a Muggle hotel, not too far from the Leaky Cauldron. Knifehand has provided a list of Prince family residences. It has four properties on it but all are outside of London. Well, one is the home my parents are currently living in, but the others are all outside the city. I don't even know if they are occupied by other members of the Prince family and while I am the Lord, I know I am young and do not want to get off on the wrong foot with family I do not even know. I can feel other members in the Family magic through the Lord's ring but it is a small number."

"What other options do you have?" Flitwick asked.

"The Bank has several properties for rent, one here on the Alley, that they are willing to let me rent out until I go back to school on September first," Severus replied. "I seem to have a lot of business to complete here and it would be convenient."

"You seem to like where you are," Flitwick said.

Severus shrugged. "I do," he admitted. "It's... nice to not have to clean up after myself for every little thing. I've gotten used to the House Elves at Hogwarts and the staff at the hotel are just as efficient."

"There are such things as cleaning charms, you know," Flitwick teased.

Severus grinned. "I do, and I know them well from living with my parents," he said. "So that really is not a problem. An apartment would simply give me more space," Severus added. "It's a... luxury that I am attracted to."

"At this point, it would be for six more weeks," Flitwick said. "Take the apartment and see what you think. Although, what have you told your parents?"

Severus felt himself redden. "Nothing, as yet," he admitted. "I won't be telling my Da, there's a... geas, I would say. He's pure Muggle and has not accepted Mum's magic. So I'm not allowed to tell him anything."

"What about your mother?" Filius asked gently.

"I do not know what to tell her, to be quite honest," Severus said. "She is the one who left the Prince family and has been formally disowned by the family. I am not sure the Family magic would consider accepting her back, even if she was willing."

"Being the Lord does make you an adult in the eyes of the Ministry, so that is not a problem," Flitwick said. "But you should at least talk to her."

Severus nodded. "I sent her a note last week and said I was with friends." He looked down at his hands. "I will see her this week and tell her what I can."

"Sounds like a plan!" Flitwick nodded.

Chapter Text

"I think I will move to the apartment offered by the Bank," Severus decided. "I will leave Knifehand a note to make that arrangement.

Flitwick nodded. "Living on your own like that is a good experience. Although you should think about checking on the rest of the Prince family to see who is alive and what relation they are."

"Would there be information about that in the Family Grimoire, if there is one?" Severus asked.

"I would suspect so," Flitwick replied. "Although Knifehand may have a list of Prince family members. You could ask him about that, also."

"I will," Severus replied.

A tap came at the door of the room. A guard opened the door and said, "Master Knifehand is available, if you wish to see him."

"I think I will," Severus replied. He turned to Flitwick, "Anything else for the moment?"

Flitwick shook his head. "I do not think so."

"Many thanks for your assistance this morning and I will see you on Thursday," Severus said.

"I am looking forward to it!" Flitwick nodded.

The guard was outside the door and escorted Severus to Knifehand's office.

"To profitable ventures," Severus greeted the Goblin.

"To profitable ventures," Knifehand nodded. "What can I help you with today?"

"I would like to take the lease on the apartment on Diagon Alley, if it is still available," Severus said. "I'd like more space than I have in the hotel and, well, I've never lived alone and this would be a good way to decide if that is something I would like going forward."

"Yes, the property is available," Knifehand replied. "I can give you the keys before you leave and you can move in whenever you would like."

"Thank you," Severus replied. "Also, I have no idea of who belongs to the Prince family. I have some... echoes through the Lord's ring, but I was wondering if perhaps there was a way to learn that before I go seeking them out."

"Knowledge is power," Knifehand agreed. "You will need that information, especially with your age."

Severus nodded. "I do not know what to expect from them, since I do not know them. Nor do they know me."

"If there is a family grimoire, it is likely at Prince Manor," Knifehand replied. "Roland Prince was your great-grandfather, your grandparent and your mother were only children, which made it even more painful for her to leave the family magic. The Prince line is largely patriarchal, but it's not as strict as some, like the Black family. If there had been a suitable female in the family, Roland more likely would have made her the Lady. The immediate family is small, which left Roland with few choices."

Being a last resort option did not sting as much as it might have, Severus realized. Although Zirnitra may have had a hand in that.

"There are some more distant relations living in one of the residences, is my understanding," Knifehand continued. "Cousins, Roland called them. That could mean anything."

"Is there a genealogy charm we could do to determine who might be in the family?" Severus asked.

"Certainly," Knifehand replied. "Anything else?"

Severus shook his head. "There will be, but not right now."

"Let me get the lease for the apartment, and the tools needed to capture the family tree," Knifehand stood up. "Please, have a seat at the table and we can work there."

As Severus moved to the table, a tea service and a plate of biscuits appeared. He poured tea for himself and took what turned out to be an excellent biscuit. He ate three before Knifehand returned with a sheaf of parchment.

"Please read this over," Knifehand handed him a scroll. "This is the lease for the apartment. I have set the dates from today through September 2, assuming you plan to return to school at the end of the summer."

"I do," Severus opened the scroll and started to read. He looked up. "While I know you are my landlord, what should I be looking for?"

"Clever to ask! Most wizards do not," Knifehand gave a small snort. "Look for facts to be correct, like the begin and end dates. Then for the rules. Do they make sense? Are they rules you feel you can follow? What penalties are there for non-compliance? Because I am your account manager, I am here to represent you to the Horde. I have set up a basic agreement, making allowance for your age and for the short term of the contract. You would have to work hard to incur a penalty with this agreement. That will not always be true with contracts."

"I appreciate your assistance," Severus replied. He took the time to review the entire document and, as Knifehand said, it was short and straightforward. He looked at the cost of the lease. "This is a more than reasonable cost," Severus said. "Much less than I am paying in a Muggle hotel."

Knifehand shrugged. "It has been empty for a while and I was able to argue that a short-term lease might make the property more attractive after you leave. I have included laundry and cleaning service for you. I am assuming you will be too busy with other things to have to worry about that."

"To my advantage then," Severus laughed. He took up a quill and signed the scroll. He pressed his Lord's ring to the bottom and it rolled up, made two copies and the original disappeared.

"That is for you," Knifehand said. He handed over a small packet. "Keys and information on the apartment. Since you will be just down the street, do not hesitate to come here if you have questions."

"I will," Severus said as he placed the packet next to the scroll.

"Now for your family tree," Knifehand said. He placed a larger piece of parchment on the table. "Come and stand here," he directed. "You need to drop seven drops of blood from the index finger of your left hand close to the center of the parchment. They do not need to overlap, but it is better the closer together they are. As the last drop falls, the incantation is semeynoye derevo."

"Semeynoye derevo Severus repeated, to fix the words in his memory.

"Good!" Knifehand replied. He took a step back. "When you are ready."

Severus retrieved his knife from his pocket. He made a small nick on the index finger and then turned his hand over to let the blood fall. He counted and as the seventh drop was falling, he said, "Semeynoye derevo."

Severus watched in fascination as writing spiraled out from the center. He should not have been surprised when the Snape family members also appeared on the parchment. He had focused so much on the Prince family that he had forgotten about his Da's family.

Different family members appeared in different colors, some of which were easily deciphered. His name was in the center and in bright green. His mother's name was in the same bright green but his father's name was in a dull green. His Mam's parents were in black, as they were deceased. There were a surprising number of Snape relatives that he had not known even existed. Mostly distant Snape relatives, although he was surprised that there was a Snape uncle, who was married with three children, he had not expected in the same dull green. The majority of the Snape family was in the same, dull color but one of the uncle's female children was bright green.

"What do the different shades of green mean?" Severus asked. "Alive, I would assume but..."

"Non-magical," Knifehand replied. "Your grandfather evidently had a child with another woman while he was married to your grandmother. There is evidently a Muggleborn female in the Snape family." Knifehand looked closely. "She is very young at this point, five years old, but you may want to reach out to her at some point."

"Ah!" Severus was fascinated. He wondered if his Da even knew about having a half-brother. Or about a niece and two nephews.

"As you can see, there are only five, well, six including yourself, living Prince family members," Knifehand said.

Severus looked at the tree and was sad to find that the family was so small.

He remembered the huge, full Vault in the bank. "I need to do something about dealing with marriage contracts," Severus said. "I am assuming that once I take my seat in the Wizengamot that I will be an... attractive target for such things. And... an Heir."

"Do you want to entertain marriage contracts?" Knifehand asked.

"No!" Severus shook his head firmly. "Definitely now right now, anyway."

"We can file that with the Ministry on your behalf," Knifehand said. "You can make that part of the announcement when you take your seat."

"I don't know anything about the Wizengamot," Severus realized.

"Someone will be reaching out to you soon," Knifehand said. "There is a protocol where one of the members of the Noble and Ancient Houses reaches out to a new Lord to be able to answer questions. If the deceased Lord has prepared their Heir properly, then the new Lord will meet with the other Lord and confirm that the preparation is adequate and nothing else is needed. If, as in your situation, there has not been the proper preparation, you can negotiate anything from a basic sharing of information to the equivalent of a mentorship relationship."

"That is... good," Severus frowned. "I think."

Knifehand laughed. "You have done well for yourself in the past few days," he said. "I cannot advise you on the actual Wizengamot itself but between us, Master Flitwick and I can advise you on most other things."

Feeling faintly overwhelmed, Severus nodded. "Thank you."

"As for an Heir, until you have children, you unfortunately do not have a lot of choices," Knifehand said.

Severus glanced at the bright green on Snape side of the chart. "Can the Lordship go outside the Prince family?"

"That will be up to the family magic," Knifehand said. "You can designate an Heir, so one is on file for the physical assets of the Prince family. You can then work within the family magic to see what options you may have within magic."

"If I do not have an Heir?" Severus asked.

"Magic will do what it wants," Knifehand replied seriously. "It may make one of the other members of the family the Lord or it may see the Prince family magic go away. Either option is likely."

Severus took a breath. "I find I am in need of tutoring on Family Magic," he admitted.

"Whomever contacts you from the Ancient and Noble Families should be able to give you more answers than I can," Knifehand admitted. "I will consult my colleagues to recommend some reading material to you to get you started. But that will only be a start. The magic of the Horde is very different from the magic of Wizards and we can only give you general information."

"Good to know," Severus replied.

"Anything else today?" Knifehand asked. He rolled up the parchment and handed it to Severus.

Severus shook his head. "I think this is enough for the moment."

Knifehand nodded. "Here is to profitable ventures."

"To profitable ventures," Severus replied absently, mind whirling.

Severus left the Bank and walked down Diagon Alley. He stood in front of the building and identified the entrance to the first floor apartment. He used his key on the outside door and then again at the top of the stairs.

The door opened to a comfortable living room. There was a couch under the window that overlooked the street, two squishy arm chairs and appropriate side tables. Empty bookshelves lined the far wall. He went through the living room to a small hall and found a kitchen with a hob, a cooling cabinet, and a variety of shelves. The shelves held crockery, pots and pans, and cutlery. There was a table and four chairs against the far wall that had a window. The window was away from the Alley and had a perch where owls could wait for him.

Back to the hallway, which had a closet for outerwear, gave access to an oversized bedroom with a large window. Severus bounced on the bed and found it acceptable and assumed there were charms to adjust the comfort of the bed. A large wardrobe that took up most of one wall contained hangers and shelves for his clothes. There was a basket similar to the baskets at Hogwarts for laundry. Back to the hall again gave access to the bathroom. Severus was glad to see an oversized tub and a stack of fluffy looking towels, along with a basket for towels that needed to be cleaned.

Severus locked up behind himself and went back to his hotel. He went to the desk.

"I have taken an apartment in town and will be moving out tomorrow," Severus said. "Your hotel is lovely but the opportunity for my own space was too good to pass on."

"No problem, sir," a woman he had not yet met said cheerfully.

"Charges can be on my credit card," Severus said. "I'll be packing up this evening."

"It's been a pleasure to have you," she said.

Up in his room, Severus used packing charms to collect his belongings into a variety of bags, as well as his trunk. He'd have to re-arrange his trunk once he had more clothes and he really should consider getting either another trunk or one that would hold more things.

He shrunk everything and put it in his pocket. He looked around to ensure the packing charms had not missed anything and then left the room.

In the apartment, Severus unpacked. Clothes hung in the wardrobe, and he tossed some of his worn clothes in the basket for cleaning. He placed books and other items on the bookshelves. It wasn't home but it felt homey.

Not having any food on hand, Severus went to the Leaky for a quick meal. He enjoyed the cottage pie and cider. He decided to pass on afters, he'd do some shopping at a grocers and pick up something there.

He went out on the London street for a grocery he had seen in his wandering about. He filled a hand-basket with breakfast foods, fresh fruit, desserts, and milk. On his way back through the Alley, he stopped at Eeylops for owl treats.

As he looked over the selection of treats, a medium-sized barn owl flew down and sat on his shoulder.

"Oh!" Severus said. "I was not expecting to get my own owl."

The owl gave a small hoot. Do not be a silly human. I am yours.

"I guess I have an owl," Severus said.

"Aha! That's where you went!" A woman with an apron that had Eeylops written across the front came up to Severus. "Looks like you've made a friend."

"While I did not come specifically for an owl, I do have need and would like to purchase..." Severus checked the legs and found them singularly pale. "...him."

"Indeed!" the woman beamed. "What else do you need?"

"Everything," Severus admitted. "I have not had an owl before."

"He will largely hunt on his own," she said. "He's about eighteen months old, so fully grown. You'll want a perch and treats, at a minimum. Do you need a cage?"

Severus considered and then nodded. "Yes, please."

In short order Severus found himself the owner of the owl and back in his apartment.

"I'm assuming that is a magical window," Severus said. "I will have correspondence to carry but nothing right now." He placed the perch in the living room. "If you want this somewhere else, you'll have to let me know."

The owl hooted.

"Okay, a name..." Severus said. "Let me think about that for a minute."

Another hoot.

Severus thought back to the movie he had seen and found himself coloring at the thought. "How about Charlton? It sounds dignified and most won't recognize the Muggle source."

The own danced in place and bobbed.

"Charlton it is." Severus grinned to himself.

Which then reminded him that he had wanted some books about the Muggle war. He sighed and reached for a notebook he had placed on a shelf. He had to start to keep a list of things he wanted to remember to do.

Chapter Text

When Severus woke the next morning, he realized he had been back in time for only a week! The bad news was there was still so much to do!

"Umm... not to be presumptuous," Severus said aloud as he made breakfast in hopes that Zirnitra was paying some attention. It left him feeling faintly foolish. Charlton was missing from his perch, likely hunting for his own breakfast so there was no one to overhear. "If there's something specific you need me to be doing, it would be nice to know."

If Zirnitra had sent him back in time to save Magic, it would be nice to know if he was on the right track. The apartment remained quiet. Severus dished up his eggs, bacon, and toast for himself. He had forgotten to purchase either coffee or tea and he had a simple glass of milk with the food.

After eating, he set the dishes in the sink and activated a cleaning charm. As the dishes cleaned themselves, he went for his notebook and started a page that would be a grocery list. He put tea and coffee at the top of the list.

Charlton came back as he sat at the table. He perched on the back of the chair next to where Severus sat.

"Good hunt?" Severus asked. He held up a rasher of bacon he had saved. "Interested?"

Charlton delicately took the bacon from his fingers and downed it in a few bites.

Deciding he should see his mother sooner than later, Severus penned a note.

Mam, I would like to visit with you on Wednesday. If I come about 11 in the morning, perhaps we can go out to lunch? This is Charlton and he will bring a reply back to me. --Severus

He rolled the paper up and handed it over to Charlton. "This is for my Mam. Make sure she is alone when you approach her. My Da is a Muggle and hates that she has magic. If you would wait for a reply?"

Charlton took the scroll and hooted briefly. He flew off.

Deciding this was a good time to visit the bookstore, Severus went out on Diagon Alley and down to Flourish and Blotts.

"Mr. Flourish," Severus said politely. "I am in search of some books about Muggle history. I watched a Muggle movie a few days ago and find myself at a loss on how much of what I saw was true or not."

"Ah! An interesting request," Flourish replied. "Wizards rarely ask about such things. Since you were comfortable enough to watch a Muggle movie, may I ask why would you ask about Muggle history books here instead of in a Muggle bookstore?"

Severus colored a bit. "My first instincts were to come here, but you are right, I should have considered a Muggle bookstore," Severus admitted.

"I would need to do some research to find whatever you might be interested in," Flourish said. "Since you are asking about Muggle history, I would suggest you visit a Muggle library. They will have a selection of history books on hand and I have had much success in working with the librarians. That is what I would do for you but it may be something you want to do for yourself."

"That is a good suggestion," Severus agreed. "Thank you. Perhaps you can help me with information about Family Magic, the Wizengamot, and... a general history of Magic."

"That I can do!" Flourish replied. "Come this way."

Severus left the bookstore with a dozen books in his pocket. He went through the Leaky to Muggle London. Fortunately, London had a robust library system and he was soon chatting with a librarian about finding history books. She assumed it was for a school project, which he did not correct. He soon had an extensive list of resources, a brand new library card so he could take books out, and another half a dozen books to read.

Severus stopped at the grocer's to pick up his coffee and tea, as well as another packet of biscuits. He was supposed to be eating more, after all.

When he got back to his apartment, there was a strange owl waiting for him. He took the scroll from the owl, who then settled in.

"You're waiting for a reply, I would guess," Severus said. He handed over an owl treat and picked up the scroll. The adult -- the spy -- in him reminded him that he should be checking for magics on the scroll before he handled it. It could be a portkey or have compulsions or other curses.

Before he picked it up again, he did check the scroll. Finding nothing, he reached for it and opened it.

Lord Prince,

I have been assigned to meet with you before your first Wizengamot session, which will be in two weeks. If you are aware of your duties to the Wizengamot, this meeting is merely a formality. If you are not aware of your duties, I can provide preparatory materials and assistance to you.

I am available tomorrow for lunch, if you are so inclined. We can meet at one in the afternoon at Harrington's Gentlemen's Club on Golden Way, just off Diagon Alley.

If this is not convenient, please suggest an alternative. I am also available Thursday and Friday morning.

I look forward to meeting you.

Fleamont Potter
Lord Potter

Severus stared at the letter for a few minutes before realizing that Fleamont Potter likely did not know who 'Lord Prince' actually was. This was something assigned to Lord Potter and he was simply doing as requested.

That made this meeting even more interesting.

Severus picked up a fountain pen and wrote on the note.

Lord Potter,

I find I am completely unfamiliar with my Wizengamot duties and will appreciate any assistance you can provide to me. Meeting tomorrow at one for lunch fits into my schedule.

Until tomorrow,

Lord Prince

Severus gave a small snicker as he used only his title and not his name.

It was telling that Potter invited Severus to meet at a Gentlemen's Club. He wondered what would happen if 'Lord Prince' was female, which was a possibility since the Prince Lordship was not strictly entailed to the male line. Something he should ask. Oh. Was Severus even old enough to enter a Gentlemen's Club? He'd find out tomorrow.

He handed the scroll to the owl, who took off to return to, Severus assumed, the Potter's home. He knew from Lily that Sirius generally stayed with the Potters during any school breaks and assumed that continued to be true this summer.

Having a day to breathe was welcome. He made a pot of coffee and spread his books out on the table next to a squishy arm chair. He selected a book on the Wizengamot that had been highly recommended -- that is, not written by someone inside the Ministry -- in preparation for his meeting with Fleamont Potter tomorrow.

Severus huffed at one point and got a notebook and a pen so he could write his questions down. The book was informative but raised as many questions as it answered. He hoped Lord Potter would be more helpful.

Severus wrote himself a note to write his own Wizengamot book as he learned more.

At dinner time, Severus went out to Muggle London to seek out a restaurant he had never eaten at before. He wanted to expand his food palate and eating different cultural cuisines would help with that.

He found a small French restaurant that he liked the looks of. He knew that didn't guarantee anything that he might enjoy, but he took the chance.

The waiters were not as helpful as they had been in the Italian restaurant but Severus suddenly found that he was able to hold a conversation in French. He sent a small thought of appreciation to Zirnitra and his use of the French language unbent the waiters enough that they would answer questions.

Throwing caution to the wind, Severus ordered foods he had only read about -- escargot as an appetizer, coq a vin as his meal, and tarte tatin for afters. The waiters did not seem to worry about his apparent age and offered wine with each course, which Severus graciously accepted. He made note of other items on the menu for future visits.

Back in his apartment, Severus looked over his wardrobe. A gentlemen's club implied more formal dress, which he did not yet have. His school robes and his new clothes under that would have to do.

In the morning, Charlton was back with a note from his Mam.

Your Da will be working on Wednesday, come any time.

Good. He should be able to get in and out without his Da any wiser. He debated for a moment but decided on a purchase on Diagon Alley after his meeting with Lord Potter. A small gift for his Mam would be appropriate.

Severus went back to reading and started on the book about Family Magic. It answered only some of his questions about his magic but it was a start. He browsed the History of Magic book and found that slightly more helpful.

In the morning, Severus made himself breakfast again, sharing bits with Charlton who had been waiting for him. After, he dug into the library books and found them more interesting, and horrifying, than the books on magic.

Just before one o'clock, Severus walked up to the Harrington Gentlemen's Club. A white-haired wizard stopped him at the door.

"No underage wizards," the man said firmly, not quite sneering at Severus' shabby robes.

Severus held out the note he had saved. "I am Lord Prince and I have a meeting with Lord Potter."

Startled, the man looked at the note and then looked back at Severus. He gave a small huff of annoyance. "I will escort you to your meeting and you will stay with Lord Potter. When you are ready to leave, I will escort you back to the door."

Severus gave a small nod. "That is acceptable."

There really wasn't anything interesting to see, Severus thought, not that he had any real experience with gentlemen's clubs. He was led to a doorway off to one side on the first floor. Severus knew that anything... interesting would be happening on the second or third floor of the building and the entrance to the upper floors would be hidden behind a strong ward. Anything Aurors could not get to, the club could not be accused of.

The man tapped on the door and opened it. "Lord Potter, your guest is here. I will have your lunch served shortly."

"Thank you," Lord Potter said before he looked at Severus.

"Oh, my!" Lord Potter exclaimed. "I did not realize you were so young! My apologies for arranging a meeting here."

"I did suspect you were not aware," Severus replied. "And, to save some future awkwardness, you should know that the Prince line is not strictly patriarchal. I could have been female and not welcome at your club at all."

Potter blinked. "I had not given that a thought, since I was told Lord Prince and not Lady Prince. But you make a good point." He stood up and held out a hand. "Fleamont Potter."

Severus shook the hand. "Severus Snape."

Potter blinked. "I have... heard that name. Do you attend Hogwarts with my son? You're a friend of Lily Evans, aren't you?"

Severus held back a grin and nodded. "I do attend Hogwarts. Lily is a friend."

"Ah. That will be interesting," Potter replied. "Please. Have a seat." He gestured to the other chair at the table.

Severus sat down.

Remembering his apparent age, Severus decided to give Potter some help. "I do appreciate your time in getting ready for the Wizengamot. I have only recently taken up the Lordship and have been slightly overwhelmed with things I need to do."

Potter nodded. "If I may ask, how did you come to be Lord Prince?"

"While my mother was disowned by the Prince family for marrying my father, who is a Muggle, my great-grandfather, the previous Lord Prince, decided I was to be his Heir. He did not tell me that and I only learned about my inheritance when I received a request to go to Gringotts."

Potter snorted. "Roland Prince was a stubborn fool. He should have known better."

"I never met my great-grandfather," Severus admitted. He grinned. "But that is what my account manager said, also."

"Good! You're working with the Horde," Potter nodded.

"My manager has been very helpful," Severus replied.

At that point, lunch appeared on the table.

"I hope you don't mind shepherd's pie," Potter said. "They make it with lamb and it's quite good." He looked at the drinks and snorted. "I see they've swapped out the ale for butter beer. I hope you don't mind."

"The pie is more than acceptable," Severus agreed. "And I do enjoy butter beer." He gave a wry grin. "The man at the door was quite firm that I am not to wander about without an escort."

Potter gave a belly laugh at that. "Harrington runs a reasonably above-board club," he admitted. "While there is...entertainment available, there is an emphasis on consent that is not always followed in other establishments."

"Good to know," Severus replied as he applied himself to the lunch. The shepherd's pie really was good, since he rarely ate lamb.

"I have a packet of material you should find helpful," Potter said. "Let's start with practical things. Do you have Wizengamot robes?"

Severus nodded. "Well, I have a set on order. I'm getting some new clothes through Master Weaver Antony and he said he would add that to my order."

"Good man," Potter nodded. "Antony makes excellent robes. How did you get an appointment with him so quickly?"

Severus hesitated for a moment before admitting, "I have asked Professor Flitwick to be a mentor to me in my new position. He arranged for the appointment."

"Flitwick was willing to take you on?" Potter was obviously surprised.

"He has been very helpful," Severus replied with a nod.

Potter waved a hand. "Oh, I don't doubt it. I'm just surprised because he has turned down other requests. I don't remember the last time he took on an official mentee."

"I was not aware," Severus replied, although his adult self had never known Filius to officially take a mentorship role, for all that he had been helpful to Severus before.

"You're in good hands there," Potter said.

"Good to know," Severus replied.

"All right, there are some boring details you should be aware of," Potter grinned. "Not all of them are in the so-called 'handbook' that is in the packet, but you should read it all before the first session. That will be the first Tuesday of August. So you have three weeks to prepare."

"Good to know," Severus nodded.

Potter reviewed basic protocol, how voting worked, and what kind of issues the Wizengamot would be reviewing.

"I think you are the only new Lord, so you will be introduced to the group and then seated," Potter said. "At fifteen, your age is at an awkward stage. Technically, you are old enough to hold the seat yourself, so that is not a problem. Some of the... older members will try to take advantage of that. At any age, you can appoint a proxy for your seat, so that is an option."

"There is no one in the Prince family who would be suitable," Severus admitted. "Until I know more about what is involved, I would like to do this myself."

Potter nodded. "That is sensible."

"What major issues will be addressed at the next session?" Severus asked.

"You will be sent an owl a few days before the session," Potter said. "One thing I know that will need to be addressed is selection of a new Chief Warlock."

Chapter Text

Startled, Severus took a sip of his butter beer to gather his thoughts.

"What does the Chief Warlock do?" Severus asked.

"The Chief Warlock oversees the Wizengamot, ensuring that proper procedures are followed," Potter replied.

"Is that all?" Severus asked.

"Unofficially, the Chief Warlock manages the items for discussion," Potter replied. "Anyone who wants to bring anything up before a session sends their items to the Chief Warlock and he puts the list together before it is sent out."

Severus frowned. There was a ripple in his magic that told him Zirnitra was paying attention. "Does the Chief Warlock bring everything forward for discussion?"

"I... well, lad, I don't know," Potter admitted.

"So you could send something to the Chief Warlock and he could omit it from the list?" Severus asked.

Potter nodded. "I never thought of it that way. Although members are allowed to bring up new business during the meeting but... well, now that I think of it, no one has done that in a long time."

"Is the Chief Warlock a member of the Wizengamot? Does he get to vote?"

Potter shook his head. "That I do know. The Chief Warlock does not get to vote."

"But... he does get to influence the discussion by not bringing forward items that he, or someone else, might not like," Severus said slowly, puzzling it out.

"The Chief Warlock does take an oath to serve the Wizengamot," Potter added.

"I would be interested in the wording of that oath," Severus replied. "Is he to serve the Wizengamot or to serve Avalon?"

Potter's eyes opened wide. "What an interesting question! I do not know."

"Someone who serves only the Wizengamot could... be biased by some of the members," Severus pointed out. "Members who are working with..." -- the name changed as he said it-- "...Tom Riddle might want to avoid topics that would affect their cause."

"Tom Riddle?"

"You do not know?" Severus asked.

Potter shook his head.

Severus held up his hand. "If I may?"

Potter nodded warily.

Severus re-created the manipulation that Zirnitra had performed for him. He put his hand on the table as Potter continued to look at the display.

"Voldemort is... Tom Riddle?" Potter asked weakly as the display finally faded.

"His mother was essentially a squib and his father was a Muggle," Severus said. "Not even Muggle-born. A truly non-magical Muggle."

Potter stared and then started laughing. "Merlin! That is the most entertaining information I have heard in years. Where did you learn that?"

Severus drew a blank for a moment before saying, "The family grimoire. I was reading some of the more recent entries and my grandfather had recently discovered this information. He died before he could share it with anyone."

Potter shook his head. "And Vol-, umm... Riddle is preaching to everyone that he is a Pure Blood!"

"Shouldn't that be easy to disprove?" Severus asked with a frown. "Even I know my Family magic keeps track of everyone who is a member of the Prince family. If Riddle is a Pure Blood, he would be a member of a Noble family. Which family is he a member of?"

Potter frowned. "No one has ever asked that question."

"Or," Severus replied, "someone has tried to ask and the Chief Warlock has failed to bring that discussion forward to the Wizengamot."

Potter sat back in his chair and stared at Severus.

"You are amazing," Potter said slowly.

Severus felt himself blush. "I... Not really."

"Don't let anyone tell you otherwise," Potter said firmly. He drummed his fingers on the table for a moment while he obviously considered some options. "Have you met Aurcturus Black yet?"

Severus shook his head. "No. You're really the first Noble person I've met." He took a breath. "I've only been Lord for a week. There's so much to learn and do."

Potter chortled. "There is, there is," he agreed. "I'm going to set up a meeting with Arcturus Black. I need you to tell him what you just told me."

"It's not a secret," Severus protested. "You can tell him yourself."

"It's... more compelling coming from you," Potter replied. "And Arcturus has no reason to see me. But if you are there as a new member of the Wizengamot, with information he needs to have, he should be willing to at least listen to you."

Incongruosly, the table cleared itself at that moment, with tea and biscuits appearing.

Potter snorted. "Have a biscuit."

Severus poured two cups of tea and took a biscuit on a plate.

"Who is proposed for Chief Warlock?" Severus had to ask, even though he already suspected the answer.

"Albus Dumbledore."

"Professor Dumbledore?" Severus frowned. "Isn't he busy being the Headmaster at Hogwarts? That's a big job without having anything else as important as Chief Warlock to do, also."

"Another good point," Potter nodded.

Severus stuck half a biscuit in his mouth to stop himself from insulting Fleamont Potter. He needed Potter's good will at this point and pointing out the failure of most of the adults of Wizarding Britain to see the obvious would not be a good thing.

"What is your schedule this week?" Potter asked.

"I'm visiting my Mam tomorrow, and I have a fitting at Antony's on Thursday. I have nothing specific after that," Severus outlined.

"I'm going to contact Arcturus and see if he is available on Friday, then, if that works for you," Potter said.

"It does."

"I will send you an owl," Potter said. "Oh. Hmm... where to meet? Coming here again would be inappropriate."

"Perhaps at the bank?" Severus suggested. "It's a neutral location and should provide a level of... security that should be acceptable to Lord Black."

Potter nodded. "I will see about a meeting room there." He stood and Severus stood with him. He shuffled together the papers they had been working with before. "Read what you can, but especially the handbook and the charter. Feel free to owl me questions if you have anything that cannot wait until Friday."

"Mr. Harrington was firm that I needed to be escorted back to the entrance," Severus reminded him.

"Oh! Right." Potter nodded. "I will be glad to do so."

"Thank you," Severus replied.

At the door, Severus stopped to greet the man who walked him in. "I do hope I have not been too much of an inconvenience," Severus said. "Thank you for your assistance today."

"You are welcome," Harrington replied. "I hope to see you again. Several years into the future."

Potter laughed. He shook hands with Severus. "See you on Friday."

Severus took the papers back to his apartment, wanting to look them over and read the handbook in detail. He started a new notebook for questions and notes. He only stopped when he found himself nodding over the material.

In the morning, he dressed in casual clothes to visit his mother. He fixed himself breakfast and fed Charlton.

"I won't be back until dinner time," he spoke to the owl.

Charlton hooted at him and settled into his perch.

Severus went out to Muggle London through the Leaky and found an apparition point.

Oh. Hmmm... Sod it. He wasn't legally able to apparate but he'd work that out when necessary. Maybe Knifehand would have some ideas on how to manage a license.

He apparated to a location not to far from the house on Spinner's End. He took a moment to center himself. His Mam had been dead for a number of years before he had died and he had not seen her much after he left Hogwarts. In his head, he had not seen her in over thirty years.

He walked to the house and hesitated. Did he knock? Or just walk in? He figured both would work. He knocked on the door as he opened it.

"Hello? Mam? Are you there?" he called.

Eileen came out of the kitchen and looked Severus up and down. "You... look and feel different," she said cautiously. "Your magic..."

Adult-Severus realized that she was thin, tired, and worn, something he did not remember even if it was true. While her clothes were neat, they were shabby but appropriate for the area where she was living. Grey hairs streaked through the black hair. He was startled to realize he was technically older than she was. He blinked.

Severus held up his hand so she could see the Lord's ring. "I've been made Lord Prince."

She scowled. "Now what?"

"I came to visit you and let you know what I'm doing," Severus said. "That's all."

"What about your da?" she asked.

"There's a... geas on the lordship," Severus said. "I can tell you about it because you are my Mam. Because Da is a Muggle and you've voluntarily left the family, Magic won't let us tell him."

Eileen looked away for a moment and blew out a breath at that. "Come and have some tea, then," she said.

"We could go to lunch," Severus reminded her. "It would be a treat."

"I... I don't know..." she hesitated. "It's easier to stay in." She turned and went back into the kitchen. She bustled about, setting a kettle on the hob and getting cups from the cupboard.

Severus let her alone, gathering her thoughts.

Tea poured, she sat at the table with him. "Lord Prince, eh?" she said wryly. "Never would have expected that."

Severus nodded. "It has been quite the learning experience," he admitted.

"You look nice," she said.

"One of the first things I did. Bought some new clothes," he said.

"Where are you staying?"

"I'm in an apartment owned by the Horde, on Diagon Alley," Severus said. "It's near everything I find I need to do and it's comfortable." He took a breath. "I'm not likely to come back here."

He realized he would not talk about the house being part of the Prince estate. Whether Eileen knew of the ownership or not, it was now Lord's business and he could choose to ignore it. If there was rent being paid, he assumed Gringott's was handling it. He realized his great-grandfather had chosen to take care of Eileen in this small way.

Eileen nodded. "Not a surprise. Your Da will hardly miss you, to be honest and the magic will help with that. And you were destined for better things. Better than this." She waved a hand at the shabby house.

Severus brought out his wallet. He handed Eileen the pound notes that it contained. "I cannot be overly generous but I can give you at least this much." When she hesitated to take the money, he went on, "So you can eat well, if nothing else."

Eileen nodded and took the money without really looking at it.

"In a real emergency, you can go to Gringotts," Severus said gently. "The ring has given me... memories of other Prince family members and the Horde will at least take you in and reach out to me. If you want."

Severus doubted that she would take advantage of even that. She was enmeshed with Tobias, a man she had truly loved... once upon a time. The love may be gone but she was faithful to her marriage.

"What has been going on around here?" Severus asked. "How are the Millers?"

Relieved for the change of topic, Eileen launched into the small gossip that was rampant in the neighborhood. Affairs, insults (real and imagined), good days, pie-in-the-sky dreams... all were fodder for talk among the locals.

The afternoon wore on as she talked. Severus cast a Tempus and said, "I should go."

Eileen sighed and nodded. "Your da should be home soon. It is best that you avoid him."

"If he asks, I am with friends for the summer," Severus suggested but, sadly, suspected Tobias would never ask.

Eileen nodded. She walked him to the door and then hugged him fiercely.

"You are a good son," she said. "You will be a great man."

Severus hugged her back. He went back to the apparition point and back to his apartment. He wasn't hungry, so checked that Charlton had food before going into the bedroom. He took off his clothes and put on pajamas and climbed into bed. Tears of sadness fell on his pillow as he fell asleep, exhausted.

Chapter Text

Severus woke to find Zirnitra sitting in his kitchen, petting Charlton. He stared for a moment, shrugged, and offered, "Coffee? Oatmeal?"

Zirnitra laughed. "Certainly!"

Severus put coffee on the hob and made a pot of oatmeal. He put everything on the table and sat down to eat.

"You're doing well, you know," Zirnitra said as he doctored both his coffee and the oatmeal with cream and sugar.

"Good to know," Severus replied as he ate his oatmeal. "I feel like I am careening from one thing to another without a real plan."

"That's actually to be expected," Zirnitra replied. "And allowed for at your current age. Although, good job on getting Fleamont Potter to listen to you about Dumbledore. That makes my part of all of this easier."

"It feels all related," Severus replied.

"True," Zirnitra replied. "But you've helped stop Dumbledore from becoming Chief Warlock. That will be a good thing."

"I hope it works," Severus said.

"Your mother will be fine," Zirnitra said gently. "Whatever happens to her, Hecate will take care of her. I can promise that for you."

Severus swallowed and looked away. "I can't do much more for her, can I?"

"I suspect not."

Severus focused on the rest of his oatmeal as they sat in silence. Charlton hooted and hopped over to Severus.

"You have a good friend there," Zirnitra said. "He will serve you well for a long time."

"Thank you," Severus replied as he picked up the owl.

"Next time you go to the bank, check out the Prince vault," Zirnitra directed. "You'll need a new wand and while Ollivander makes decent wands, you'll need something different as your magic grows."

Severus looked up at that. "A new wand?"

"In the Prince vault," Zirnitra nodded. He disappeared in a whirl of magic.

"Hmmm..." Severus considered. He didn't have to be to Antony's until late afternoon. He could read for a couple of hours and stop at the bank before the appointment. He put the dishes in the sink, activated the cleaning charm and dressed in casual clothes. He might as well be comfortable.

He read through the Wizengamot handbook Fleamont Potter had given him. Some of the rules of the organization went back centuries and were contradictory. He wondered how that was sorted out. Hopefully, there was a process.

Severus made a light lunch and went off to the bank. He went to a teller.

"May your enemies flee at the sight of you," Severus said solemnly. "I am Lord Prince and I would like to have some time in my Vault."

The teller grunted. "Over there." He pointed. "Someone will take you."

"My thanks." Severus waited only a few minutes before a Goblin he didn't think he had seen before came up to him.

"You wish to go to your Vault?"

"I do," Severus nodded.

"Come."

It was a short trip to get to the entrance of the Vault. Severus turned to his escort. "I may be a while. I do not know the protocol for that."

"Use the rune outside the door," the Goblin pointed to a series of runes in the rock wall. "Someone will come."

"My thanks," Severus gave a small head nod. He went to the Vault and, with an air of assurance he did not really feel, he opened the Vault door. He took a breath and walked inside.

His first thought was that he needed more time to learn everything he needed to know. Although, one thing he did need.

"Accio Prince family grimoire." He said it firmly and held up a hand.

He saw the book sailing at him from the back of the Vault. Interesting that it had been hidden back there.

While the book was not large, he knew it held an infinite number of pages. He would talk to Potter about what he should be putting in the book.

Deciding he did need to explore and not just call things to him, Severus balanced his wand on his hand and said, "Point Me Prince wands."

The wand spun several times in his hand and then pointed off to the left side of the vault. It took half a dozen Point Me's for Severus to find a trunk sitting on a shelf along the far wall. He made note of the artifacts on display -- wardrobes of clothing, furniture of all types, lamps, kitchenware, dishes, and countless knickknacks. It should be all in the inventory but it was still overwhelming to see the volume of belongings the Prince estate had.

He pressed the Lord's ring to the lock of the trunk and it opened to reveal that it was full of wands. The top tray had a dozen wands and there were an unknown number of trays in the trunk.

Severus took a breath. No telling what wand would and wouldn't work, so he methodically started on one side of the top tray. The wands in the top tray were not satisfactory at all. Most did not respond to him, one stung him as he tried to pick it up, and one gave off a wisp of sickly smoke when he moved it in the air.

It was on the fourth tray that Severus found it. The red oak wand warmed gently in his hand as he picked it up and a stream of cheerful, rainbow sparks appeared as he swished it. He peered into the tray and a card appeared.

A triple core! How unusual but it warmed in his hand and felt friendly. This is what Zirnitra had to have sent him for.

Severus did check out two more trays and found an acceptable wand on the second tray. It wasn't as warm and friendly but it did give off a thin stream of silver sparks when he swished it. Peering in, he read the card.

Interesting that the two wands that responded well to him both had kelpie hair in the core. He would have to add wand lore to his growing reading list.

Severus used the oak wand to re-pack the trunk and closed the lid. There was a small snick as the lock engaged again.

Casting a Tempus, Severus realized it was nearing time for his appointment. He wandered back to the entrance, closed the vault door and pressed the rune to summon a cart. He looked around the cavernous area while he waited. He idly wondered if a broom would work in the bank. Not something he was ready to try.

Back on the street, Severus went to the tailor shop and found Flitwick and Antony already in conversation.

"Good afternoon," Severus greeted them.

"Right on time!" Antony said cheerfully. "Come, I have a couple of things for you to try on."

Severus followed Antony to the back of the workshop and to a small dais. Severus took a step up to stand in the middle.

"Down to your underwear, please," Antony said briskly.

As soon as he was undressed, Antony handed him dress slacks. "Put these on."

Severus did, enjoying the feel of the soft fabric against his skin.

Antony fussed with the slacks, using magic to pin some areas more closely or to let some areas become more loose.

"Take them off," he directed and handed Severus another pair. "These are for a Muggle suit, so the fit is slightly different," he explained.

Not knowing that, Severus simply followed directions and went through a similar set of adjustments.

"Now a dress shirt," Antony handed Severus a white shirt. More fitting and loosening went on with the shirt.

"Leave the shirt on," Antony directed as he handed Severus a suit coat. "Put the jacket over it."

Antony adjusted the suit coat on Severus' shoulders, and more tightening and loosening occurred.

"Come over here," Antony directed.

Severus found himself in front of a mirror.

"Oh." Severus was amazed. He looked... Older. Better. Competent. He hadn't looked in a mirror recently and was surprised that he wasn't as pale or thin as he remembered. He also had not been brewing and he must have absent-mindedly put his hair in a queue, making it look longer and less stringy.

"It is nice, if I must say so myself," Antony grinned. "Take the jacket off so we can try robes."

Severus went back to the dais and took off the suit coat. Antony handed him traditional school robes.

More adjustments and then the same with the dress robes.

"That is all for today," Antony finally announced. "Come back next Wednesday for another fitting. I'll have something ready for you by then."

"Good," Severus replied. "Thank you."

"What I saw looked nice," Flitwick said.

"It was," Severus nodded. "This is... amazing."

"Good! I'm glad you like it!" Flitwick said.

"Are you both still available for dinner?" Severus asked.

They nodded.

As they walked to the restaurant, Flitwick said, "I have found a book of Charms that I think Miss Evans would like. I will owl it to you over the weekend, if that is acceptable."

"More than acceptable," Severus smiled. "My thanks for your assistance."

"I think the two of you are good friends and one transgression should not break that relationship," Flitwick said. "I am glad to help."

Severus had made reservations for them at the Italian restaurant and introduced Flitwick and Antony to Maria. Dinner was a great success. Antony provided an impromptu lesson in wine pairings, which Maria happily went along with.

"Thank you both for a wonderful evening," Severus said as they approached Diagon Alley.

"That was a wonderful find," Antony replied. "Thank you for sharing it with us."

Walking down Diagon Alley toward his apartment, Severus stopped in Flourish and Blotts.

"I am looking for some introductory information on wands and wand lore," Severus said.

Flourish frowned for a moment. "We won't have a lot, but there is more in depth information about wands in a couple of books I do have on hand."

"Something to start will be helpful," Severus replied. "I find I don't know much about wands at all and want to expand my knowledge."

"Garrick Ollivander would be better source of information," Flourish said carefully.

Ah! Evidently Ollivander has his own agenda. That explained a few things. "I certainly will speak to Mr. Ollivander," Severus said aloud. "I do want to ask good questions, however, and not something too... elementary."

Flourish grinned in understanding and nodded. "Then I have something you can start with and another set of books I can obtain for you."

"That would be excellent," Severus agreed. He t took the book Flourish had on hand that was titled Famous Wands through History which was unlikely to have the depth Severus really wanted but would get him started. He winced at the cost of the books on wand lore and creating wands but since they were being imported from Greece, he had to hope they would give him some of the information he was seeking.

Severus found an owl waiting for him from Lord Potter.

"I only have owl treats," Severus admitted. The owl delicately took the treat and crunched on it as Severus read the message.

Lord Black is willing to meet with us tomorrow at 11 am in the Bank. Let me know if this will not work for you. --Fleamont Potter

Severus grabbed a quill.

That works well for me. Thank you for arranging the meeting. --Severus Snape

He made tea and settled in to look through the book he had. He did find that red oak wands were associated with spell creation. Thinking back to some of the spells he had created over time, that seemed appropriate.

There was little information about kelpie hair. There was a single reference to a wand with kelpie hair, to a wizard with a water affinity. That made sense since kelpie hair must be dangerous to gather and would not be used widely. He already knew unicorn hair was commonly used and wands made with it were difficult to turn to Dark Arts.

Although that made him consider Dumbledore's obsession with Light magic and Light families. Blood magic, which originally had not been associated with the Dark Arts until... until Dumbledore, he guessed, had become looked down on and had not been taught at all at Hogwarts after Severus had become a professor.

Something else to add to his growing list.

Severus was not surprised that there was no mention of Devil's Snare as a wand core. Plant cores were largely unknown, he realized.

Suddenly tired, Severus marked his place in the book, went to bed.

Chapter Text

Not meeting until eleven gave Severus time to read more of the Wizengamot manual as well as some more about wand lore.

He took both his original wand as well as the red oak wand with him. He should consider a wand holster or some better way to manage multiple wands.

Severus donned the best Muggle suit he had on hand. When he had purchased it, it had looked amazing but now that he knew better, he could see the difference a good tailor could make. He Scourgified his best school robe, put that over the suit and went off to the bank. He hoped his new robes would be ready soon.

Fleamont Potter was watching for him as Severus entered the bank. Severus gave a nod to the guard outside the door and entered the room Fleamont was in.

"I've ordered tea," Fleamont said. "Arcturus should be here any moment..."

"I am here," a low, bass voice announced from the door. The man was tall, taller than Sirius had been. But he had the same long, black hair and imperious look that Sirius had unconsciously carried. He nodded at Fleamont. "Potter."

"Black." Fleamont nodded back. "May I introduce Lord Prince. He has very recently inherited that role and I was assigned to be his mentor for the Wizengamot. In our meeting, I learned some information that we think you should be aware of."

The tea service appeared on the table. Hot tea, chocolate, and a variety of dainty biscuits were arrayed around the table.

"Tea? Chocolate?" Severus offered.

Black huffed for a moment, rubbed his hand across his forehead and came over to the table.

"Chocolate, please," Black said.

Severus poured and passed the cup over to Black. He turned to Fleamont.

"Tea, please," Fleamont said.

It only took a few moments to get them all a drink.

"You asked for this meeting Potter. Get to it," Black said.

"Lord Prince..."

"Severus Snape," Severus interjected. "Good to meet you, sir."

Black frowned. "Snape... I do not know that name."

"My Mam married a Muggle and was cast out of the family," Severus admitted. "The previous Lord Prince did not think that banishment applied to me and made me his Heir." He shrugged. "I was not aware and I am working hard to catch up."

Black sat back in his chair and looked at Severus. "Are you still in Hogwarts?"

"Going into my Sixth year," Severus admitted.

"You know Sirius. And Regulus."

"I am sorted to Slytherin," Severus replied. "Sirius and I are... acquaintances."

Black barked a laugh. "That is one of the better descriptions of rivals that I have heard."

Severus frowned.

"Not your fault, I suspect," Black waved a hand. "Sirius is... headstrong." That last was said with a thread of fondness.

"If I may be bold..." Severus hesitated.

"Why stop now?" Black asked.

Severus grinned. "Your grandsons do not know you, sir. I know enough that he seeks refuge with the Potters because his parents are cruel to him. Regulus stays with his parents only because he does not know that you can be his refuge. Neither of them know that."

"That is bold!" Black growled, leaning forward toward Severus.

"I have made my own refuge as Lord Prince," Severus replied. "They do not know they have choices. You need to make that clear to them."

Black sat back and took a biscuit from the plate. He nibbled at it delicately and coolly eyed Severus. Severus just eyed him back.

"I... I will think on it," Black finally said.

"My house is small," Severus said. "I will be working to keep my family safe. Protecting them from Riddle is one of my priorities."

"Riddle?" Black asked, looking at both Severus and Fleamont.

"Show him!" Fleamont encouraged.

Severus wandlessly re-created the anagram Zirnitra had shown him. As Tom Marvolo Riddle morphed into I am Lord Voldemort Black stared. He looked at Severus and then at Potter.

"And Riddle is a half-blood!" Fleamont said in glee. "Go on..." he encouraged Severus.

"Riddle's mother was the last of the Gaunt family, a Pure Blood witch but almost a Squib. His father was a Muggle. Not even a Squib. A pure, non-magical Muggle," Severus said. "My great-grandfather had been researching that before he died."

"Merlin!" Black swore.

"Severus has pointed out that it should be easy to prove that Riddle is not a Pure Blood," Fleamont said. "What Family does he belong to? No one had claimed him. 'Lost' members of Pure Blood families exist but they rarely are Pure Blood themselves. They are likely Muggleborn or, at best, Half Bloods."

Black was speechless. He stared at them both but Severus could see the man's brain spinning away.

"We have to stop him," Black growled.

"We can do a lot of damage to his cause in the next Wizengamot meeting," Fleamont said. "All we have to do is ask which Family claims him. That alone will discredit his platform."

"And, if I understand the Wizengamot procedure properly, we may want to bring it up in the session as New Business," Severus said. "We do not want to give anyone a chance to prevent us from asking the question."

"No one has brought up New Business in..." Black trailed off and then took a deep breath. "Dammit!

"Exactly!" Fleamont nodded. "And who knows what items the Chief Warlock has decided were 'not important enough' to bring to the floor?"

Another stare. And a sigh. "When did we stop caring?" Black asked softly.

Fleamont shrugged. "Too long ago," he admitted. "But it stops now."

"It does!" Black nodded. He looked directly at Fleamont. "We've had our differences but I think we have a better chance at fixing this if we work together."

"One more thing..." Fleamont said with a grin.

Black groaned. "What now?"

"Why is Albus Dumbledore the only option for Chief Warlock? Doesn't he have enough to do as Headmaster at Hogwarts," Fleamont asked.

"Because..." Black frowned. "I don't know why! Stop asking good questions!"

"Maybe no one else would take up the responsibility?" Severus offered.

"The Chief Warlock is usually selected from someone within the Ministry," Fleamont said. "The position is primarily administrative." He glanced at Severus. "And I've recently had reason to question the Oath of Office. Is the Oath to the Wizengamot or to Avalon?"

"I did find that in my reading of the Wizengamot manual," Severus admitted. "Well, it is among a number of things that are contradictory. There are oaths to both the Wizengamot and to Avalon. The Wizengamot version is listed as a later version of the Oath."

"The Oath should be to Avalon!" Black said firmly.

Severus shrugged. "That is one of many contradictions in the Manual."

"I haven't read that Manual in years!" Black said. "It's..." He again looked at Fleamont. "Someone is meddling with the Wizengamot, aren't they?"

"That is the conclusion I came to," Fleamont admitted.

"The Wizengamot version of the Oath is attributed to a suggestion from the Minister's office," Severus said.

"That is self-serving," Potter said.

"It is," Black nodded.

"We can insist on the Oath being to Avalon," Fleamont said. "We should have the votes for that."

"We will have the votes for that," Black agreed.

"Do we have someone to recommend for the Chief Warlock?" Fleamont asked.

"Or Chief Witch," Severus felt obligated to add.

"Good man!" Black nodded. "Or for Chief Witch?"

"No one immediately comes to mind," Fleamont admitted. "But... we have some time. We can ask around, quietly, and see who might be more suitable."

"Does the person have to be from the Ministry?" Severus asked.

"Obviously not, if Dumbledore is up for consideration," Fleamont said. "Who are you thinking of?"

"Mr. Flourish at Flourish and Blott's has been helpful to me," Severus said. "He seems to know a lot about a number of different subjects." He shrugged. "Just... making a suggestion."

"Thackery Flourish," Black said, rolling the name in his mouth. "There is a creative option."

"We should talk to him first," Fleamont said. "I suspect that is not something we should simply spring on the man."

"I will reach out to him," Black offered.

"Let me know if you need anything from me," Fleamont nodded.

They both looked at Severus. "So. What else do you know that we should know?" Black asked.

"I don't know enough to know what I do not know," Severus protested.

Black barked a laugh.

"Lord Prince has convinced Filius Flitwick to mentor him," Potter said slyly.

"He turned me down when I asked him to take Sirius on," Black admitted. "Sirius needs some... polishing and I hoped Flitwick would be willing to help."

"The Horde assisted me with that arrangement," Severus felt obligated to explain.

"It is a good choice," Black said. "If Potter is willing, I would like to assist him in working with you as you join the Wizengamot."

Severus looked at Fleamont. "Sir?"

Fleamont waved a hand. "Not a problem," he said "If you keep asking questions like you have, it will take both of us to work out the answers."

"Thank you," Severus nodded to Fleamont. He turned to Black. "I will be grateful for your assistance."

"Well played," Black nodded. "Please, I am Arcturus."

Severus nodded. "I am Severus."

Arcturus turned to Fleamont. "Sirius is staying with you?"

Fleamont nodded.

"I would like a chance to talk to him," Arcturus said. "If we do that in your home, he may be more likely to actually listen to me."

"Come for lunch tomorrow," Fleamont invited. "James and Sirius do not have any special plans that I am aware of and should be there. I'll let Euphemia know what you are hoping to do. I think you'll find her helpful."

"Thank you," Arcturus said. "I appreciate the assistance."

"Owl if you have more questions," Fleamont said.

"We should meet again next week. Friday should work," Arcturus suggested. "If nothing else, I'd like to get to know Severus better. You're both welcome to come to Black Manor." He rubbed his forehead. "Melania would probably love to visit with Euphemia, if you are amenable."

"I suspect we will both hear some variation of 'I told you so'," Fleamont sighed.

Arcturus laughed. "I agree!" He looked at Severus. "Do you have a girlfriend? Boyfriend?"

Severus shook his head. "Not at the moment."

"Oh. Talk to the Horde about managing betrothal contracts," Fleamont said. "Once the Pure Blood mothers know your new status, you'll have a flood of contracts coming at you."

"I... I have no interest in marrying as yet," Severus said. "But I have told my Account Manager that I am not entertaining betrothal contracts. He is including that in the information that will go to the Ministry." He shrugged. "It's on my list of things to take care of."

"I suspect it's a growing list," Fleamont laughed.

"You do not know," Severus said, shaking his head.

Both men laughed.

Severus went back to his apartment and added learning more about betrothal contracts to his list of topics to deal with. He probably should reach out to Filius for a meeting about such things.

Since it was Friday evening, Severus went out to Muggle London to find some fish and chips. He found a chippie shop and took his newspaper-wrapped dinner to a bench in a small local park. He enjoyed the steaming fish and fresh chips as he sat outside in the mild evening.

Back in his apartment, he picked up the Wizengamot manual to continue his reading.

Saturday morning, Severus woke realizing that, for the first time in days, he had the weekend to himself. It was an odd feeling. Even in his 'old' life, there was always something that had to be done.

He decided to spend Saturday doing the fun things he had never had the time, or money, to do. He went into Muggle London and went to the Tube station. The adult in Severus wanted to go to the British Museum but the teen in him saw the listing for the London Zoo. The Zoo it was.

Severus stayed until closing.He had a panicked moment when he saw the sign that said 'Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult' but the woman selling the ticket did not question his age. Saturdays in July meant crowds of families and tourists, but it was an interesting feeling, allowed to just be himself for the day. The sight of families made him somewhat sad, it was something he never had, but he shook it off and dedicated himself to enjoying himself.

He wandered the entire Zoo, spending time at the exhibits and enjoying the atmosphere. He stopped and bought beverages and food regularly, remembering the doctor's orders to eat several times a day. By the time the Zoo closed he was pleasantly tired and had a touch of sunburn on his nose. He had forgotten to apply sunscreen charms until it was too late. But the tightness across his nose brought memories of the summer days he used to wander about with Lily, before they even knew that things like sunscreen charms existed.

He took the Tube back toward Diagon Alley but got off a few stops early. He was looking for some supper and figured he could find something if he walked a few blocks along the way. He found a pub that was off the tourist path and went in. He had frosty mug of cider and an oversized cheeseburger and chips.

He found Charlton sitting in the kitchen and a package on the table.

"Oh, thank you!" Severus said. He unwrapped the book and found it was Other Uses for Household Charms and a note.

I think Miss Evans would enjoy this book and it is an appropriate token for someone like yourself to offer to her. --Filius Flitwick

Severus almost wanted to keep this for himself. This was the type of charm work that was not normally taught at Hogwarts and while the professors tried to get students to think of alternative uses of charms, having an existing list could help generate even more ideas.

He wrote a thank you note but cast a Tempus. "You can deliver this in the morning," Severus said aloud. "No sense in sending a note this time of night."

Charlton hooted at him and settled back onto his perch.

Severus did spend the time reading several chapters of the book before he went off to bed. No sense in wasting the opportunity to learn something useful.

In the morning, he sent Charlton off with a thank you note. He asked if Flitwick would be interested in checking out the Prince properties with him. One was in Italy and he suspected he should have an adult with him for that trip. He invited Flitwick to the apartment for breakfast and they could make a plan from there.

He also needed to write a note to Lily to go with the book and that was going to take a bit longer. He made several false starts before he came up with something he was comfortable with.

Lily,

Please accept this book as a symbol of my apology. I will admit that I asked Professor Flitwick to recommend something and he suggested this. I looked through a few chapters and can see where the book is quite brilliant in some of its ideas.

I would appreciate a chance to apologize in person, if that would be acceptable to you. Choose when and where you would like to meet and I will be there.There has been a change in my circumstances that I also would like to tell you about before Hogwarts starts in September.

I appreciate your patience with me, after I abused our friendship.

With hope--
Severus

Severus hoped Lily's natural curiosity would be piqued by his reference to his change in circumstance. He did not want to spring the 'Lord Prince' information on her at the last minute. If she would not meet with him, he would send a letter.

As Severus waited for Charlton to return, he reviewed his reading list. Between the library books, what he had purchased and the stack of paper he had received from Fleamont Potter, it was a daunting task. He decided to start by simply browsing the library books, so he could return them on a timely basis. Muggle history would be important but not as important as the other reading he needed to do.

Charlton came back from his flight to Flitwick with a return note that Flitwick would be delighted to visit Prince properties with Severus and would be at Severus' apartment in the morning.

Severus said to Charlton, "I have another task, but it is not time sensitive and you are welcome to take a break. Do you need something to eat?"

Charlton hooted a no and hopped on the table, holding out his leg.

"Ready for another trip?" Severus nodded. He put a small featherlight charm on the book and fastened the package to Charlton. "For Lily Evans. It's a Muggle home, remember, so be careful about who sees you."

A hoot of assurance and Charlton took off.

Chapter Text

Severus set an alarm for the morning and had started both tea and coffee when Flitwick arrived.

"Good morning" Flitwick said cheerfully. He looked around. "This is nice."

"I am enjoying it," Severus admitted. "I was not totally sure of your preferences, so I have coffee, tea, orange juice, porridge, toast, and eggs."

Flitwick laughed gently. "That is more than sufficient. I will drink coffee or tea and, since you have made it all, I will have some of everything."

Severus put the food on the table and they soon were amicably eating.

"What kinds of properties are there in the Prince estate?" Flitwick asked.

"There is a Prince Manor outside of Newcastle, a dwelling in Cambridgeshire that I suspect is more Muggle than magical, a dwelling in Italy near Rome, and the home in Spinners' End that my parents live in," Severus listed. "While my Mam was disowned from the family, it seems someone is taking care to ensure she has somewhere to live."

"Does she know that?" Flitwick asked.

"I do not think so," Severus admitted. "I am... ambivalent about letting her know and I should check to see if there are even restrictions on telling her."

"A delicate question," Flitwick said gently. "Your father?"

"Da is... pure Muggle and does not tolerate Magic." Severus sat back. "I do know there is a... geas that prevents Mam or I from telling him I am Lord Prince, so that is protected. I suspect the same geas would prevent either of us from telling him that I own the house. But I do know she loves him in her own way and I suspect her knowing would put another barrier between them."

"Then we leave that alone," Flitwick said firmly. "It can be a comfort to you that your Mam has a safe place to live and from there she will be making her own choices."

Severus nodded. He ate a slice of toast. "I was wondering if we could check out Prince Manor and the dwelling in Cambridgeshire today and then the dwelling in Italy tomorrow. Since there was only minimal information in what I received, I do not know how long we will need to spend in either location."

Flitwick nodded. "That does make sense. If I may, I'll borrow your owl and have Knifehand arrange for portkeys to the Bank properties in Rome and back home. We'll go in the morning and come back in the evening," Flitwick said. "If the property does not take that much time, we can do some sightseeing. If nothing else, there is a Magical enclave in northern Rome we can check out."

"I would like to see that," Severus nodded. He remembered that enclave from his 'other' life and would enjoy visiting it again.

"Do you have Apparition coordinates for each of the properties?" Flitwick asked.

"I do," Severus replied. "That is how I figured out their general locations. That also means none of them are Unplottable but I would hope there will be Wards."

"That is what we will check out," Flitwick said. "The Manor first? I would suspect that will be larger and take longer to check out."

Severus nodded. "That is also my assumption."

Because of the awkward size difference, Severus took Flitwick's hand as Flitwick performed the side-along Apparition.

They came out in a small copse of trees, near a country lane.

"At least there is basic security," Flitwick commented. "Which way? You should be able to feel the Manor with the Family magic."

"I was not aware of that," Severus admitted. He focused on the Lord's Ring and it led him off to the left. A short distance down the lane, there was a stone pillar on the side of the road.

"Here," Severus said. "I think."

"Start by placing your hand on the pillar," Flitwick said. "It may require blood, but let's start simple."

The pillar was warm under his hand but nothing happened.

"A few drops of blood on your hand should do it," Flitwick advised.

Severus brought out his knife and made a small cut in the palm of his hand. He let a small pool of blood gather and placed his hand back on the pillar. This time a wave of light flowed down and up the pillar and the singular pillar became part of a ironwork gateway. Severus peered through the gate and could see a large house.

"Did it work?" Flitwick asked.

"Oh. The wards," Severus said.

"Step through the wards and then you should be able to pull me through," Flitwick suggested.

Severus stepped closer to the gate and then reached back to give a hand to Flitwick.

"There you go!" Flitwick said cheerfully.

Severus pushed on the iron gate and it opened easily for them to walk up the drive. Severus closed the gate and cast a simple locking charm. The Wards should keep most others out.

"It's not the best but it will slow down anyone that should not be here," Severus said.

"Good thought," Flitwick said.

The manor house was large enough to have six windows on each side of the central door and three stories. It was faintly overwhelming, like much that had happened to him recently. The front door had a portico, allowing visitors who arrived in a vehicle of some type some protection from the weather as they entered the house. It wasn't ornate but it looked sturdy and practical.

Deciding to go for the obvious, Severus opened the front door and walked into a foyer with high ceilings.

"Who dare!" A House Elf popped into the foyer. It brandished a large kitchen knife.

"I am the new Lord Prince," Severus said firmly. "I have come to see the Manor."

"Lord Prince! There's a new Lord Prince!" The House Elf jumped up and down and in circles. It popped out of the foyer and then right back in. "I be right back!" He popped out again.

Severus rolled his eyes and he heard Flitwick snicker.

"Evidently, you have House Elves," Flitwick stated the obvious.

Luckily, Severus' time as Headmaster in his previous life had gotten him used to dealing with the beings. They stood in the foyer and were rewarded with several pops.

There were six House Elves in front of him.

"I am the new Lord Prince,"" Severus announced. "I am inspecting the family properties and have come here first."

A female Elf stepped forward. "I am Kimber, the Head Elf for the Prince family." She gave a small curtsy. "This is Wynde, who runs the kitchens." A nod. "And Lottie, who runs the bedchambers." Another curtsy. "Spruce is in charge of the grounds." Another nod. "Melly is a general helper, although she spends most of her time in the gardens and grows a lot of things we eat here." A curtsy. "And Spot is the youngest and is learning about being the Lord's Elf." Spot was the Elf that had greeted them at the door. Spot bobbed a bit in both embarrassment and eagerness.

"My name is Severus Snape," Severus said. "I would like to renew your connection to the Prince family."

"Yes, please," Kimber nodded. "We miss Lord Roland, he be a good master."

"I never got to meet him," Severus admitted. "But I hope you will tell me something about him."

"We will," Kimber replied. She stepped up to Severus and he held out the Lord's ring for her to lay a finger on."

"I welcome you to the Prince family," Severus said.

"Kimber serve the Prince family well," she said. There was a small flash of magic. She looked pleased when she stepped back.

It did not take long to complete the ritual with the other Elves. Severus could now feel them in the Family magic when he thought about it. Family Elves did feel different than the Hogwarts Elves had. It felt like a closer relationship, which was appropriate, now that he thought about it.

It was interesting that the Prince family had as many House Elves as humans in it.

"May I introduce Professor Filius Flitwick," Severus said. "Professor Flitwick has agreed to mentor me, since I am new to being a Lord."

"Lord Prince wise to ask for help," Kimber nodded. "Come, I give tour."

"We would like that," Severus nodded.

The first floor held the public rooms. A room just for the Floo, a large living or gathering area that he was assured could be tranfigured to hold a dance floor, a smallish den, a formal dining room, and a parlor. The basement held the kitchen and family dining room, a potions lab, and storage. The first floor held the master bedroom and attached en suite that was larger than all of Spinner's End. There were three other bedrooms, all with en suites, and the Prince Family Library. The second floor was a half dozen bedrooms, again with en suites.

The parlor opened to a patio space that was warded for weather. There was a large greenhouse with potions ingredients as well as vegetables for eating. A chicken coop held a dozen hens which looked at Severus with beady eyes. There was a barn that held no animals but he was assured it could house horses, cattle, sheep, or any other animals that Lord Prince might select.

"It's just me right now," Severus admitted to Kimber.

"Lord Roland live here for many years," Kimber said.

"I am still going to school," Severus replied. "I do not know what I want to do yet."

"Prince Manor be here when you ready," Kimber replied.

Lunch was delightful, using a variety of fresh vegetables in an omelet.

"Do you need anything?" Severus asked. "Supplies, access to funds?" He looked at Flitwick. "What am I forgetting?"

Flitwich shook his head. "Nothing I can think of."

Severus looked back at Kimber. "For now, keep the Manor in order. I will be going to the home in Cambridgeshire this afternoon and to Italy tomorrow."

Kimber looked a bit embarrassed. "Home in Cambridgeshire be dusty. Is a Muggle neighborhood and we not go there often."

"And there is nothing wrong with that," Severus assured her. "If no one is living there, you have no need to keep it ready."

"I send Melly ahead," Kimber said. "And Spot goes with you, since he is Lord's Elf."

Severus wasn't sure what he was going to do with a personal Elf but he also knew there was no getting out of it.

The apparition point for the Cambridgeshire house turned out to be another copse of trees, this time at the rear of the property. There was almost two hectares of land, which Severus knew was a substantial amount of property.

Spot stayed close to Severus, unsure of himself in the Muggle area. They used the back door of the house to enter.

It was a lovely house and Severus felt more comfortable here than in the Manor. There were five bedrooms and four full bathrooms. There was a bedroom with an en suite as well as a powder room on the first floor. The other bedrooms were on the second floor.

The kitchen had gleaming Muggle appliances.

"Spot not so good with Muggle things," he admitted.

"Not to worry," Severus said. "We can work on that."

"This is nice," Flitwick said. "Since it is Muggle, if you live here at all, you will need to remember to do some obvious coming and going. You have enough land to be able to say they must have missed you but, well, you'll need to be a bit more careful."

"I would not have thought of that," Severus nodded.

"But this is comfortable and private enough that no one should notice Elves inside the house," Flitwick said.

"Very true," Severus agreed. "I do like it."

"We can close this back up and go back home for the evening," Severus said. "We still have tomorrow."

"Indeed," Flitwick nodded. He apparated them back to Diagon Alley. Spot appeared a moment later with a small 'pop'.

"I will meet you in the morning at the Bank," Severus said. "Thank you for going with me today."

"It was fun and I look forward to tomorrow," Flitwick said as he left.

Severus led the way to the apartment.

"This is where I am living right now," Severus explained. He led the way to the living room and sat so that he would not loom over Spot. "I have leased this apartment from the Bank until school starts on September first. Make yourself a place to sleep. You are to be comfortable, warm, and clean. If you need something, do let me know. If you have questions, simply ask. You are not to punish yourself without my permission."

"Lord Prince is kind," Spot said.

"I would prefer to be Master Severus," Severus corrected gently. "There may be formal situations where it will be appropriate to use the Lord Prince title but I will never punish you for using the wrong title."

Spot considered that for a moment, then bobbed in place. "Yes, Master Severus."

Severus smiled. "Thank you. I have a post owl, his name is Charlton. His perch currently is in the kitchen, since that is near the window he can use to get in and out."

"Post owls smart!" Spot nodded.

"I have never had a personal Elf before," Severus admitted. "So we both will work on what each of us needs to do. Keep things neat around here, and I will let you know when you can come with me and when you will stay here."

Spot nodded. "I is a good Elf."

"I know you are," Severus agreed. "But we will both make mistakes. Again, no punishment without my permission. Understood?"

"Yes, Master Severus," Spot agreed.

"I am going to take a shower," Severus said. "Look around and find a place you would like to sleep. There are extra blankets and pillows in the closet, use what you would like."

Spot made a space for himself in the hall closet. Severus nodded and then remembered he would have to ask about having Spot at Hogwarts.

"Make a simple breakfast for the morning?" Severus asked.

"I do that!" Spot bobbed.

In the morning, Severus wasn't sure that porridge, eggs, beans, bacon, toast, pastry, tea, and coffee was simple, but he ate some of everything. Although he fed most of the bacon to Charlton.

"I will be gone all day," Severus told both Charlton and Spot. "I will be with Professor Flitwick but I will call if I need you."

"I listen," Spot promised.

Severus met up with Flitwick at the bank. The portkey took them to the Rome branch of the bank.

"Where to?" Flitwick asked.

"We will need to take a taxi," Severus said. "The area is partly magical but there are enough Muggles that it is simpler to use a taxi."

"That is sensible," Flitwick nodded.

The address Severus had was a restaurant that was not too far from the house. They followed a street that was too wide to call an alley but would not support too much traffic. They finally stood in front of a two-story home with a large veranda in the front. They went up the stairs and Severus knocked.

An Elf opened the door.

"I have an appointment with Miss Mathilde Prince," Severus said. "I am Severus Snape, Lord Prince."

"Miss Matty say you come!" the Elf said. "I am Mocio. Come in!"

Severus and Flitwich entered the home, which was much cooler than the outside air.

"Come to parlor!" the Elf directed.

Two elderly women sat in the parlor. As they were about to stand, Severus moved forward. "Please, do not get up," he said. "Do be comfortable."

"Thank you," one woman said. "I am Mathilde Prince and this is my companion, Raphaela Mancini."

"I am Severus Snape and this is my friend and mentor, Filius Flitwick," Severus made the introductions.

"Ladies," Flitwick gave a small nod of his head. "I am pleased to meet you both."

"I was given to understand there was another person living here?" Severus asked.

"Cipriano Fabrizzi is technically a cousin but I think of him as a nephew," Mathilde said. "He sends his apologies but he was called into work and will return as soon as he can."

"I understand about work," Severus admitted.

"You are so young!" Mathilde said.

Oh. He was comparing his previous life. "The Family Magic has accepted me as Lord," Severus said. "I am fifteen and will be going into my sixth year at Hogwarts."

"I know Roland didn't tell you anything," Mathilde said. "How are you managing?"

"Relatively well, I think?" That was as much of a question as anything.

"Severus has been smart enough to seek assistance when he needs it," Flitwick added. "He has an Account Manager at the Bank, I am working with Severus as a mentor, and he is working with Lords Potter and Black on his role in the Wizengamot."

"That is impressive and you know it," Raphaela said to Mathilde. "And you know perfectly well there was not anyone else." She winked at Severus. "The boy will be fine."

Severus wasn't sure if he should be pleased or offended. But he took the support.

Clattering feet announced the arrival of another person in the house.

"Oh, that will be Pri," Mathilde said.

A man that was likely in his thirties stepped into the room. "My apologies for being late!" he said breathlessly. "Cipriano Fabrizzi, at your service."

Severus nodded. "Severus Snape."

"Please, my friends call me Pri," Cipriano said cheerfully as he shook hands with Severus.

"I am Severus." He turned and indicated his companion. "Professor Filius Flitwick is my traveling companion today and is a mentor to me."

"Good to meet you, sir!" Pri held out a hand and shook hands with Flitwick.

"Please, be seated," Mathilde said.

Lemonade and biscuits appeared on the tables. "Thank you, Mocio," Severus said.

"We do appreciate the visit," Mathilde said. "What can we tell you?"

"I am visiting the various Prince family properties, as well as looking to meet the members of the family," Severus said. "And to offer to listen to any needs you may have. I do not know how this house is supported, as an example."

"Damn Roland and his stubbornness!" Mathilde exclaimed. She rubbed a hand across her forehead and sighed. "There is a Vault here in Rome at the Bank that supports the house. I have not visited it in several years but it has been more than sufficient for our living expenses."

"And I am steadily employed and do contribute to the household fund," Pri added.

"I am merely making sure there are no oversights," Severus admitted. "I will have my Account Manager contact the Bank here to make sure what you have is sufficient."

There was a subtle relaxation in relief at that statement.

"I have no need nor do I have the interest in making major changes," Severus went on.

"Thank you!" Mathilde said. "That is a comfort to us."

Severus looked at Pri and knew he had to ask. "A delicate question but, do you know why my grandfather did not select you as Lord Prince?"

"A good question!" Pri nodded. "While I have a bit of magic, it's not enough to shoulder the Lordship since you do have the power to do so. If you were not able to hold the Lordship, I could have taken it but it's better this way."

Severus felt his own relief at that. It primarily meant that Pri would not be working against him to try to become Lord Prince.

"And I had my Account Manager help me with a family genealogy, and it tells me you have a sister?" Severus asked. "And that she is married?"

Pri nodded. "Jacinda is younger and she married Luca de Medici. They are living in Canada currently, for his work. He has a Mastery in Herbology with a specialization in forestry. He is working with the Canadian government on preserving the forests in central Canada." He grinned. "And before you have to ask, Jacinda is like me. Magical but without much power."

"And Luca?" Severus asked.

"Told Uncle Roland right out that he didn't want to be Lord," Pri admitted. "That if Uncle made Luca the next Lord Prince that he would never accept the ring."

"Good to know," Severus admitted. "I will write to her, to check to see if she needs anything that I can provide."

"The truth is that none of us wanted to be Lord Prince," Mathilde said. "And we are eternally grateful you were willing to do it."

"I am glad to serve the Prince family," Severus said.

With that, a flash of light went through the room.

"Oh! How lovely!" Mathilde sighed. "That the Family Magic is so accepting is a boon to us all!"

Conversation became more general. Mocio served an excellent lunch and only the fact that they had a scheduled portkey allowed Severus and Flitwick to escape.

"It may be small but it is a good family," Flitwick said when they arrived back in London.

"It is," Severus agreed. "I am sorry we did not have time to visit the magical district."

"We can go some other time," Flitwick said. "Getting to know your family made for a nice day."

"My thanks for going with me," Severus said.

"Any time," Flitwick replied cheerfully. "Any time."

That night, Severus wrote a letter to Jacinda. He introduced himself as the new Lord Price, admitted that he was young and new at the position but that, if she needed anything, she was welcome to reach out to him. He knew he was not in a position to travel to Canada but he hoped they could meet at some point in the future.

He looked at Charlton who was eyeing the letter. "I'm going to send this with a Post owl." he said firmly. "Yes, you could do it but I would rather keep you here to help me."

Charlton gave a small hoot of understanding.

Chapter Text

Severus presented himself to the woman at the desk, Anabelle he remembered belatedly.

"I have an appointment with Healer Black," Severus said.

"She will be right with you," Anabelle nodded. "Have a seat for a moment."

"Thank you," Severus replied.

Healer Black swept into the room shortly after he had been seated. "Lord Prince! Good to see you again!"

"Good to see you," Severus replied, standing up.

"Come, let me take a look at you," she said.

They went up to her office and Severus lay in the familiar position on her table. She cast the diagnostic spell and it washed over him.

"Well done," Black announced. "Come, let us take a look at this."

Severus got up and they sat at a table.

"Your general health is much better than it was," she announced. "You're still slightly under the weight I would like to see on you but you're doing better."

"I now have a House Elf who is dedicated to helping me with meals," Severus admitted.

"That is the best," she nodded. "Elves are good at nutrition, it's in their magic. So even if a specific meal isn't well-balanced, the overall nutrition will be."

"Good to know," Severus replied. He added learning more about House Elves to his endless list.

"The small core fracture you had is completely repaired," she went on. "How is your magic doing?"

"I have found it helpful to have another wand," Severus admitted. "Knowing that getting another wand at Ollivander's would generate questions I do not want to face, I was able to find a complementary wand in the family Vault." It would be difficult to explain that Zirnitra told him to go looking in the Vault for another wand.

"Let's see it!" Black said, obviously curious.

Severus brought out the wand and said, "Lumos." A steady, white light appeared. "Nox." The light disappeared.

"Nice," she said. "That wand seems to suit you well."

"It does," Severus agreed. He decided not to tell her about the second wand he had taken from the same trunk in his Vault, at least not yet. He wasn't sure if it was important or not.

"You are on the cusp of another magical maturation," she said. "It doesn't look like a major maturation but more like an adult maturation."

"What does that mean?" Severus was puzzled.

"It's the sort of thing we see in adult wizards who may not have an maturation when they were teenagers," she said. "It tends to settle one's magic and make it more stable. So that should be a good thing for you."

"I have not felt unstable," Severus said, worried.

"You've had a lot going on," she said. "So it may not be as obvious to you, but I can see it here."

"What should I expect?"

"A day or two of extreme tiredness," she said. "If it's more than four, contact us and we'll take a look at what is going on. You shouldn't have to do any major re-tuning of your magic but it should be even easier to do magic. It also will set you up to be able to do wandless and wordless magic."

"That would be a good thing," Severus nodded. Being able to cast more than simple spells wandlessly took a lot of power that he had never had. Although... the combination of the core block and the Dark Mark would have eaten into his magic and taken away the power he would have needed for wandless magic.

"That is a good skill to have," she nodded.

"You said 'on the cusp,' how soon might that be?" Severus asked.

"Days, no more than a month, I think," she said. "If you have an Elf and you find yourself in distress, you can send your Elf to us and we can get help to you. But I don't think you will need that."

"It is always good to have a backup plan."

"That is true!"

Black reviewed the rest of the diagnostic with him and gave him a copy without Severus having to ask.

"Come back in two weeks, just so I can check on that maturation," Black decided. "If it happens before you come back, that will be fine. If not, you should be closer and I can give you a better estimate of when it might happen."

"That will be good," Severus replied.

"I will share this with Eduardo," Black said. "He will be interested in seeing how you are."

"I do have to say how much I appreciate you taking good care of me," Severus said. It really was an unusual feeling, having someone who actually looked out for him. It felt nice.

It was a good thing he had some warning. The maturation happened over the weekend. Fortunately, he had no place to be and nothing that had to be done.

"The Healer warned me," Severus told Spot after he had woken to find the worried Elf perched on a chair in his room. "I will be tired for a day or two and then should be fine."

Spot wrung his hands. "What can I do?"

"Keep an eye on me," Severus said. "If I am in serious distress, you can go to the Healer's office and they will probably come here to check me out. Otherwise, keep simple food on hand so I can eat whenever I am able. It won't be too long."

"Spot will!" he nodded.

"And with that, I am going back to bed and will sleep some more."

"Food first?" Spot asked hopefully.

"Something simple," Severus gave in. "Soup?"

"I can do that!" Spot popped away and came back a minute later with a steaming mug. "Start with this."

The mug held a beef broth that was flavored with onion and spices that Severus was too tired to puzzle out. He sipped the broth and handed the mug back to Spot.

"That was good, thank you," Severus said sleepily. "Now I will rest."

"I be ready when you wake!" Spot promised.

It took four days before Severus started to feel better. He did send a note off to the Healers and was told that if he didn't feel better the next day to contact them again and they would come to see him. But Severus did feel better at that point and sent a note informing them of that.

In the end, Severus did find that his magic did feel more stable. He would have to find some books on developing wandless magic.

He send a note off to Flitwick, informing him of the maturation and asking if he knew of any materials that would assist in developing wandless magic.

Severus---

I am glad you are well and amazed at such a development. I do not readily have wandless magic material at hand but I will do some research and help you find some material to assist you. May I talk to Professor McGonagall about this? She may have some ideas that would help you.

Oh. Severus had not thought of Minerva.

Professor--

I would welcome Professor McGonagall's insights. We can talk about my reasons later, in person, but I would ask that you not include Prodessor Dumbledore in any discussion about my situation. I can explain more when I see you.

--Severus

He had to hope his request about not talking to Albus was not too cryptic.

Two days later, a post owl brought a message to Severus. The owl settled in to wait, which told Severus a reply was expected.

Severus,

Thank you for the book. It is fascinating and I think it will be helpful in this year's charms assignments. I wonder if there are other books like this one. We should check it out.

I would be willing to meet with you in a public place. I have talked to my parents and I can be in London on Friday. I appreciate your apology and my mother has encouraged me to talk to you about our friendship.

Let me know where to meet you.

--Lily

Severus heaved a sigh of relief. That Lily was willing to meet with him was a good step in renewing their relationship. And her phrase we should check it out was hopeful. He missed his friend.

He sent a note back with the location of the Italian restaurant. He knew Maria would take good care of them. He wrote the location and suggested half-eleven as a lunch meeting. He made sure to call the restaurant to make a reservation, suspecting Friday lunchtime might be busy.

Severus sent Charlton off to Flitwich with a note about his meeting with Lily.

Thank you again for the Charms book. Lily has agreed to meet me for lunch on Friday. I can only hope it goes well. --Severus

Charlton came back with a note.

Be sincere. That is what anyone would be looking for. Don't get nervous and take a breath as you speak. You will be fine. --FF

Flitwick's faith in him helped Severus feel better about the meeting.

Luckily, Antony had sent Severus a note that some of his wardrobe was ready and when could he come for a final fitting. Severus replied with a time the day before he would be meeting with Lily.

"Master Antony," Severus greeted the tailor.

"Lord Prince!" Antony smiled. "Come upstairs. I think you will like what I have for you."

Severus went up to the workroom.

"Over there," Antony pointed to the dressing area. "Take off your clothes. I have some of the Muggle wear ready for you."

"Certainly," Severus agreed. He went and took off his outer clothes.

Antony handed him a dress shirt. "Put on the shirt first," he said. "Then the pants. Let me check the fit on those before you put on the jacket."

Severus put on the clothes. A creme colored shirt was accompanied by dark grey trousers. There was a black leather belt with the pants that he automatically threaded through the loops. Severus twisted in place to look at himself.

Antony came up and had Severus turn in a circle. "Good! Now put on this tie," he handed Severus a burgundy tie with a discreet pattern. Severus started to put on the tie when Antony stepped up to him. "This is a better knot for the tie," he said as he briskly re-tied the item. "Now the jacket and then slip on the shoes."

Severus put on the jacket and the black leather shoes, that matched the belt, and suddenly had a shiver of nerves. Who was he, pretending to play grown-up? But he really was an adult, he just didn't look like one. He closed his eyes and took a breath.

"Are you all right?" Antony asked.

Severus nodded. "Just... not used to... things like this."

Antony nodded. "You're doing fine," he said firmly. "Filius is proud to be mentoring you, you know."

Severus was surprised. "I... I am honored that he is doing this for me."

"You are good for each other," Antony said. "Now, come and see!" He guided Severus to a mirror.

Severus felt his jaw drop. "I... This is amazing!" he said softly. As before, the man in the full length mirrors bore little resemblance to the memory Severus had of himself. This new Severus was taller, filled out, healthy-looking. The suit fitted perfectly and made him look older, settled in himself in a way he had never felt. He had roughly tied back his hair earlier and it suited the look.

"Do you have an elf?" Antony asked.

Severus nodded.

"Have your elf check your vault for appropriate jewelry," Antony said. "For everyday wear, you may want to look for a Muggle-appropriate watch, also. But a family stick-pin, or a clip for your hair would also be appropriate."

"I will do that," Severus said. Spot would enjoy a task like that.

"If your elf does not know how to tie the tie, you can send him to me and I will have my elves teach him," Antony added.

"He is newly in my service and young," Severus admitted. "I will see what he is comfortable with and may send him to you."

"Not a problem at all," Antony said.

Severus tried on another suit, this one navy blue with a white shirt that also looked good on him. There was an array of less formal shirts and trousers also ready.

"Your Wizengamot robes are also ready," Antony said. "Do you need to try those on?"

Severus shook his head. "I do not think so," he replied. "Everything has been perfect and those should be fine." He looked at the assortment of clothing that filled a rack. "May I call my elf to assist me in taking this home?"

"Certainly," Antony nodded.

"Spot!" Severus called. He shrugged when Antony stifled a laugh.

"Master Severus calls?" Spot appeared with a small 'pop'.

"Master Antony has prepared new clothes for me," Severus indicated the rack. "If you would take them home for me?"

"Such lovely things!" Spot bounced in place.

"Do you have training in tying ties?" Severus asked.

"Some," Spot replied with a small shrug. He looked at the tie Severus was currently wearing. "But I do not know that one," he said sadly.

"You are welcome to visit with my work elves," Antony said. "They can teach you about taking care of the clothing as well as teaching you a variety of ways to tie ties."

"Thank you!" Spot was obviously pleased at learning something new.

"You can take the rack if you'll bring it back when you are finished with it," Antony told Spot.

"Spot will do that!" He snapped his fingers and Spot disappeared, along with the rack of clothing.

"I will need outer wear at some point," Severus realized. "Again, I throw myself on your mercy and ask you to assume I possess nothing suitable in the way of coats and even winter cloaks. Would you be able to help me with that?"

"Definitely," Antony nodded. "Let me start on a Muggle rain coat which will readily accept charms to be impervious and warm, as well as a winter cloak. I'll send you a list of options for other outer garments you can consider."

"That is very helpful," Severus nodded. "Thank you!"

The new suit helped Severus feel more confident in himself as he walked back down Diagon Alley. Remembering Antony's remarks about jewelry, he stopped in the bank.

"I had a spur of the moment question, if Account Manager Knifehand is available," Severus said at the front desk. "If not, I will send an owl later."

"One moment," the goblin at the desk said. He put a short message in a drawer and Severus assumed it went off to Knifehand. Two minutes later, the drawer glowed and the goblin took a parchment out. "Account Manager Knifehand can meet with you briefly." A guard came up to the desk at a signal Severus did not see. "Take Lord Prince to Knifehand."

Severus followed the guard to the office. "Thank you," Severus said as the guard stopped at a now-familiar door.

"Lord Prince!" Knifehand greeted him. "Please, be seated. How may I help?"

"Thank you for seeing me," Severus nodded. "It's a small question but I wanted to check before I did something wrong."

"That is appreciated," Knifehand replied.

"I will be needing some items from the Prince Family Vault," Severus said. "Jewelry as an example. I have recently taken on a House Elf who is serving as a... valet but also as a personal assistant. How do I go about giving him access to the Vault?"

"Good to ask!" Knifehand replied. "If you have the time, the simplest is to go down to your vault and call the elf to you. That will be sufficient to let the wards know that the elf is permitted access to the vault. Although I do have to warn you that removing that permission is something only the Bank can do."

Severus considered that information. "If a vault holder is no longer bonded to a House Elf, whether the bond was deliberately broken or the holder dies, the elf retains access to the vault unless the Horde is asked to withdraw that access?"

"Correct."

Severus considered that information for a moment. It sounded like something Wixen would forget, especially as House Elves were considered 'creatures' and not as the intelligent beings they were.

He looked at Knifehand and understood the implications of this information. What he would do with it, he did not know. But it felt like he had just been handed something powerful.

"Thank you for sharing that with me," Severus replied.

"Was there anything else?" Knifehand asked.

"Not today," Severus replied. "I think I will visit my vault another day."

"Whenever you would like," Knifehand replied.

Severus went back to his apartment to find Spot arranging clothes in the closets.

"Master Severus will need new trunk to take to Hogwarts!" Spot announced. "Clothes will not fit in the one you have and need better space to take care of them."

"I suspect there are some usable trunks in the Prince Vaults," Severus replied. "I will take you to the Bank on the weekend, so you can run errands to the Vault for me."

"That be good," Spot nodded eagerly.

"I know there are trunks there," Severus said. "And there may be jewelry that I can use with my new wardrobe. Once I've taken you to the Bank, you can go on your own."

"Even better!" Spot nodded.

"Now. What do I wear tomorrow when I meet Lily?" Severus asked.

They went through the wardrobe and he ended up with a dress shirt, trousers, belt, and shoes. No tie, in deference to the otherwise informal meeting.

Chapter Text

Severus woke early the next morning and tried to distract himself by reading some of the endless stack of material before him. Between his library books, books he had purchased, and the materials he had on the Wizengamot, it was a good thing he had the experience of his older brain to help him determine what could be skimmed and what needed closer reading.

It was finally time to leave for lunch. Spot nodded enthusiastically as he prepared for the luncheon.

Maria was delighted to see him when he arrived and showed him to a table off to one side. It was only a few minutes later that Lily came to the door of the restaurant. Maria showed her to the table and left with a quick wink.

"Severus! You look amazing!" Lily said.

"Thank you," Severus nodded as he helped her sit. He sat down and nodded as Maria hovered. She had menus in her hand.

Severus held up a hand. "Trust me?" he asked Lily.

She nodded.

"Bring us whatever you think we would like," Severus said to Maria. "An appetizer, a main plate, afters. Whatever is appropriate to drink with it."

"I will!" Maria smiled broadly and bustled off.

"You have been here before?" Lily asked.

Severus nodded. "Maria has introduced me to several wonderful dishes. Things I would never have tried on my own. Some I have liked more than others but nothing is ever bad."

"All right!" Lily nodded. "Tell me what is going on! You said your circumstances have changed but, well, this is unbelievable!"

"To start with, I received an owl as I left the train station that asked me to come to the Bank," Severus said. "It turns out that my great-grandfather had died and left me as the Heir to the Prince Lordship."

"Sev! How awful that your great-grandfather died!"

Severus shrugged. "I had never met the man," he admitted. "He had removed my mother from the Family Magic but he considered me an innocent in regard to her deeds. I have also found that there are few other Prince family members and I was the only realistic candidate."

"Oh, Merlin!" Lily breathed. "So you are now Lord Prince?"

"That is the biggest part of what has happened," Severus nodded. "There are properties, house elves, responsibilities, and I don't even know what else that I now am required to deal with."

"Sev! That sounds overwhelming!"

"I have been fortunate to acquire several... mentors," Severus went on. "Professor Flitwick has agreed to a formal mentorship relationship. I will admit it is he who suggested the book I sent to you."

"That book looks dead useful," Lily grinned. "I will thank him for thinking of it for me."

"And I was truly horrid to you," Severus said softly. "Some of it may be a result of something else I have learned."

"There's more?" Lily sat up straighter.

"I went to a Healer and they found both a core block that not only suppressed my magic but also affected my personality. It was borderline Dark, and has been removed, but if left in place it would give me sociopathic tendencies."

Lily gasped.

"It does not excuse my behavior, but it explains why I would do and say something that I might not otherwise," Severus went on.

Lily sat back to think and, at that point, Maria brought their appetizer and drinks. There was a shared dish of shrimp in a garlic sauce, a plate of bread, and fizzy lemonades to drink.

"This looks good!" Severus smiled.

"Enjoy!" Maria said.

"This is so good!" Lily enthused.

"It is, isn't it?" Severus nodded.

They enjoyed their appetizer together. Severus let Lily think through what he had told her. He knew it was a lot, since he was the one who was living with it.

"And the clothes? Lunch?" Lily asked. "That costs money."

"The Lordship comes with Vaults," Severus admitted. "It's not limitless but it far exceeds any expectations I had. I need to dress the part if I am to succeed in this role."

"Hmm..." Lily hummed as she ate the last of the shrimp.

Maria cleared their plates and checked their silverware. "Main dish coming shortly!" she announced.

"Thank you," Severus nodded.

"What else?" Lily asked.

"I have a seat on the Wizengamot?" Severus winced as he answered.

"Of course!" Lily waved her hands.

Maria brought their main courses at that point. Ragu alla bolognese over tagliatelle was familiar enough to Lily to be welcome yet the long-simmered sauce made it delicious.

Dessert was a Panna Cotta with a fresh berry sauce.

Talk turned to school work and their summer homework assignments, to which Severus had not given a thought.

"Severus! You have to get that homework done!" Lily scolded him.

"I will," Severus replied, wondering if Zirnitra had left him a clue as to what the assignments were. He had to hope so. "I have been quite busy with everything else. But I will get the work done."

"Okay," Lily said, somewhat mollified.

"Do you want anything else?" Maria asked as she cleared their dessert plates.

"No, thank you," Lily said. "Everything was delightful. Thank you!"

"Come any time!" Maria invited her. "Friends of Severus are always welcome."

That seemed to startle Lily into thought. She looked at Severus, who could only look back at her.

"Do you have time?" Severus asked. "We can walk back to where you are meeting your family."

"I can do that," Lily said. "My parents are picking me up outside the Leaky Cauldron. But not for a couple more hours."

"Then we can go to Flourish and Blott's, if nothing else," Severus offered. "I have some books on order that may have come in. Otherwise, I am always open to browsing."

"That would be good," Lily allowed.

As they walked toward Diagon Alley, Severus had a small push on his Magic that he had learned by now to recognize.

"There are a number of things going on," Severus said. "But please be aware that I am, and always will be, your friend."

"I'm not..." Lily started.

"No, I know that," Severus allowed as he stopped to face her. "When you can, I recommend that you visit the Book of Souls. I suspect you have an entry there."

"And you do not?" Lily asked, surprised.

"If I do, it is not you," Severus said gently. "You have a destiny that I would be glad to support but it is not with me. Or, at least not like that."

Lily eyed Severus deliberately. "Do you know who?"

"I can only suspect," Severus evaded. "But that is not for me to say. You need to do that on your own. But only when you are ready."

Lily turned her head away. Partly in frustration, partly to think.

"Then we shall go to the bookstore and I will allow my newly rich friend to buy me a basket full of books!" she said.

"I would love to!" Severus agreed, grateful for her good cheer.

Severus escorted Lily to meet her parents. Petunia was not with them and Severus wondered briefly what she might be doing. Mr. and Mrs. Evans greeted him warmly.

"Thank you for keeping our Lily company," Mrs. Evans said. "It is so hard, letting her go away for so long every year. I'm glad she has friends like you."

"Lily has a number of friends," Severus demurred. "It is good to see you again."

Lily leaned in for a quick hug before she got into the car. She waved again as they drove away.

Feeling satisfied with a good day, Severus went back to his apartment.

Spot took care of his clothes and Severus dressed in jeans and a t-shirt for the evening.

"I think we will go to the Bank tomorrow," Severus told Spot. "Let me set up an appointment."

Severus wrote a note that he gave to Charlton to take to Knifehand. By the time Severus was ready for bed, Charlton had come back with an appointment for ten in the morning.

Severus and Spot walked to the Bank in the morning and presented themselves to a teller, who had them wait off to the side. A guard took them to Knifehand's office.

"I would like to take my Elf to the Prince Vault," Severus said after greetings were exchanged.

"Certainly!" Knifehand nodded. He got up and went to the door. "Come with me." They followed Knifehand to the Vault.

Severus was amused as Spot looked around, awed by the bank and the people in it.

"Here you are," Knifehand said as they stood before the Vault. "Lord Prince enters the Vault first. You invite your Elf inside and then the magic of the Vaults will allow him to enter the Vault, and only this Vault, at will."

"Understood," Severus nodded. He reached out and opened the Vault. He stepped over the threshold and turned back. "Spot, be invited to the Prince Vault."

Spot walked in as dignified a manner as Severus had ever seen. He entered the Vault, bowed, and said, "How may I help you, Lord Prince?"

"That is all that is necessary," Knifehand said. "Your Elf now has access to the Prince Vault as necessary."

"Good to know," Severus said. "Thank you for your assistance."

"I look now?" Spot asked eagerly.

Severus laughed. "Yes, you can look now. Look for a trunk I can use for school and find some jewelry to go with my new wardrobe. A hair clasp, a watch, if you can find one, a stickpin for a cloak would be the first choices. Take notes about other jewelry you may find but I won't need much for now."

"I will!" Spot all but vibrated in place.

"Go ahead," Severus said. "I will go back with Director Knifehand."

Spot popped away into the depths of the Vault. Severus belatedly thought he should have put a time limit on Spot's exploration. Oh, well. He could call when he needed Spot's attention.

"You have a good Elf," Knifehand commented as they made their way back to the lobby of the bank.

"I have been pleased so far," Severus replied. "It is a new relationship and we are working out any differences we may have." Severus bowed, once they reached the lobby. "Many thanks for your time. May your enemies gold flow into your vaults."

"Well met, Lord Prince," Knifehand returned the bow. "May your enemies flee as you approach."

Chapter Text

It was finally the day of Severus' first Wizengamot meeting. Spot bounced on his toes, eager to be of assistance.

"Breakfast please," Severus said. He was still in bed and wanted a bathrobe and the bathroom.

"Waiting for you!" Spot nodded. " I make all your favorites for today!"

Severus held in a sigh but went into the kitchen after using the bathroom. Spot had done better than Severus had feared since Spot's enthusiasm might over-ride his common sense. There was a small dish of eggs, eight rashers of bacon - enough for himself and to share with Charlton, two slices of buttered toast, a bowl of porridge, and a glass of orange juice.

"This is perfect," Severus said.

Spot beamed.

Charlton hooted at him. Severus shared his bacon with the owl.

"I will likely be busy all day," Severus said to both creatures. "I suspect I will be invited to Potter Manor or Black Manor for dinner and into the evening."

And that would be interesting, with both James and Sirius still living at Potter Manor. But he trusted that Fleamont would keep them in order.

After he ate, Spot helped him with the Wizengamot robes. They were too ugly to be flattering but Antony had made them comfortable, as promised.

"I listen, if you need me," Spot promised.

"Thank you," Severus said. "I will call, if needed."

Severus made his way to the Leaky, to use the Floo. He threw the powder into the flames and said, "The Ministry of Magic!" He whirled though the Floo and stepped out onto the floor of the Ministry. The soot gently shook itself off his robes, something thankfully built in. He looked around.

"Severus!" Fleamont Potter called from the edge of the area with the Floos. Severus walked across the open area. It was busy with other Wizengamot members as well as Ministry workers.

"Sir," Severus greeted him.

"Thought I'd wait for you, since it's your first time," Fleamont explained. "It will be easier if you have someone you know with you."

"That is very much appreciated," Severus admitted. Not that he was nervous, but being escorted by Fleamont Potter would hopefully set the tone for his meeting with the other members of the Wizengamot. He had to remember how young he was here, a serious disadvantage when it came to being taken seriously.

As they walked to the elevators that would take them to the Wizengamot chambers, they encountered Dumbledore. He joined them on the elevator.

"Lord Potter and... Mr. Snape!" Dumbledore greeted them, obviously surprised by Severus' presence.

"Lord Prince, now," Fleamont said cheerfully.

Dumbledore's eyes narrowed in consternation. Good! They had surprised Dumbledore.

"Mr. Snape is still a student at Hogwarts," Dumbledore protested.

"He is, and doing well, if what he has told me is true," Fleamont went on. "Better than my James, which isn't all that hard."

"James is doing very well," Dumbledore hastened to add.

"Maybe, maybe not," Fleamont replied with a shrug. "James and I have talked about his work at Hogwarts. I think you and the other professors will be pleased with his... new attitude."

Dumbledore looked between them. "Lord Prince? May I ask when that happened?"

"At the beginning of the summer," Severus replied easily. "I was fortunate that Lord Potter was assigned as my Wizengamot mentor and he has been generous with his time over the past few weeks. I am looking forward to today's session."

"You are much too young to take on such responsibility," Dumbledore protested.

"I am of age and I am simply taking on the role my great-grandfather and the Prince Family magic has given to me," Severus replied evenly.

Dumbledore's frown deepened. "Family magic?"

"Yes!" Fleamont jumped on that. "I will say I've been disappointed in what Hogwarts is teaching our children about Family magic. And about Magic itself in general, to be honest. I would have thought James and Severus would have a chance to learn more about Family magic and Ritual magic at school."

"Alas, there has been little interest over the past few years," Dumbledore sighed, waving a dismissive hand. "Hogwarts has not been able to afford to hire a professor to teach such things in recent years. There has been no interest, so I have not pursued it."

"Good thing we've come up with our own solution, then," Fleamont said with a thread of steel in his reply. "Arcturus and I have found an instructor who is familiar with the ICW requirements. Severus and our boys will be taking lessons with him independently. They should be able to sit the ICW O.W.L.s by Yule and take their N.E.W.T.s by the end of next summer."

There was a momentary flash of dismay in Dumbledore's eyes but he recovered quickly, Severus thought. "You and Lord Black?" Dumbledore said faintly. "That is interesting."

"I have told the boys they could invite any of their friends to study with them," Fleamont went on, very aware of what he was doing. "I know James has extended an invitation to Lily Evans. Lovely girl, she is. We don't expect all of the others to pass the ICW exams but the boys certainly can share what they learn."

"That is... generous of you," Dumbledore stumbled.

"Now that I know you're here, you are attending the session, are you not? We should ask the other Lords and Ladies about other topics that Hogwarts should be teaching that has fallen aside," Fleamont continued. "We can see what might be missing and what we need to do to fix that."

"Surely that is the responsibility of the Board of Governors," Dumbledore bristled.

"Much of the Board also sits on the Wizengamot, is my understanding," Fleamont pointed out. "Just as easy to ask here as anywhere."

Dumbledore looked worried.

"And the Wizengamot needs some young blood like Severus," Fleamont went on cheerfully. "Shakes up some of us older folk. Arcturus and I have several questions we'll be asking the others. I think this will be an interesting meeting!"

"Good to hear." Dumbledore's worry seemed to increase.

"Now if you'll excuse us, we have a meeting to attend," Fleamont said with a small bow.

"Certainly," Dumbledore replied.

"Sir," Severus gave a small nod to Dumbledore as they went to the entrance for the Wizengamot members. Dumbledore would be required to use the public entrance.

"That was too much fun," Fleamont said to Severus with a wide smile.

"It was interesting," Severus admitted. Something prompted him. "Sir?"

"Yes?"

"Perhaps you could ascertain when the Board of Governors of Hogwarts has met last?" Severus said softly so his voice did not carry in the chamber. "Professor Dumbledore seems to use that body as an explanation for a number of things."

Fleamont instantly understood what Severus was implying and nodded. "That will be an... interesting discussion, I suspect."

Fleamont took Severus to a set of chairs on the edge of the floor. "As a new member, you wait here and the first order of business will be to introduce you and allow you to take your seat."

They had reviewed the process but Severus wasn't sure if the review was for him or for Fleamont. "I will be fine," Severus assured Fleamont. "You can take your own seat."

"I will!" Fleamont said. He strolled off toward the Potter seat, greeting other members of the Wizengamot along the way.

Severus knew he was being watched, so he sat on the chair and tried to project a level of relaxation he did not seem to have. Interesting. His physical age was influencing his mental age. He wasn't sure if that was a good thing or not. Just one more thing to be aware of.

A soft warning chime went through the chamber and a handful of Wizengamot members hurried through the doorway. A small crowd pushed itself into the visitor seats on the upper level. Severus could see Dumbledore sitting in the front row of the visitors area.

"If we are ready?" A booming voice asked. Another chime and Severus saw the doors to the hall close.

"Good morning," the voice said. Severus could not see the speaker from where he sat. "For the record, my name is Gideon Prewett and I am the Chief Warlock for this session of the Wizengamot. We are called to order."

There was some shuffling in the seats which quickly quieted down.

"Our first order of business is a new member," Prewett said. "Severus Snape, Lord Prince, please present yourself to this body."

Severus stood and walked to the center of the hall.

"Severus Snape, Lord Prince, do you accept the responsibilities of the Wizengamot, to deal honestly and fairly on the issues brought before this body, and to protect Avalon to the best of your ability?"

Severus was startled. Protect Avalon? That was one of the confusions he had come across in the manual he had been reading. Interesting that he was vowing to protect Avalon when some of the forms were only to protect England. He made a note to himself to ask if it made a difference.

"I do accept these responsibilities," Severus said with a nod.

A sweep of magic went over him, Fleamont had warned him of this part. A seal lit on a box on the third tier, interestingly behind Arcturus Black. Fleamont had not been sure where the box was, since the previous Lord Prince had not been in attendance in a while.

"You may take your seat," Prewett said.

Severus walked up the steps and placed his hand on the door. A small prick, a test of blood, and the door opened. Severus sat in the provided chair.

"Welcome, Lord Prince," Prewett said.

"Thank you, sir," Severus replied.

"Point of order?" A male voice called.

"Yes, Lord Malfoy?" Prewett looked at Abraxas Malfoy, sitting in a box on the first tier.

"Lord Prince looks a bit... young to be taking his seat," Malfoy said.

"While he is young, he is of age and his Family magic has accepted him as Lord," Prewett replied. "While Lord Prince could be encouraged to name a proxy for his seat, he is allowed to take the seat himself. If he was truly ineligible, the box would have prevented him from entering."

"If I may?" Fleamont tapped for attention.

"Lord Potter? You have something to add to this discussion?" Prewett asked.

"I was just having a discussion with Albus Dumbledore about Family magic," Fleamont said in a casual tone of voice. "He told me a few minutes ago that there has been no interest in learning about Family magic at Hogwarts in the past few years. Also, that he could not afford to hire an instructor. As a result, he has let the subject drop from the curriculum."

There was a sudden rumble of voices from across the hall.

"Your point, Lord Potter?" Prewett asked.

"Lord Black and I have arranged for tutoring for our heirs in Family magic and Ritual magic, since neither of those are offered through Hogwarts," Fleamont went on. "It was not difficult to find a tutor for the boys, at a reasonable rate." He looked around. "The Headmaster scolded me that such matters were the responsibility of the Board of Governors for Hogwarts."

"I suspect that is true," Prewett allowed with a nod of the head.

"As far as I am aware, a number of the members of the Board of Governors for Hogwarts are also members of the Wizengamot," Fleamont kept on.

"That is not the matter for discussion," Prewett protested.

"Then one last question on this topic," Fleamont leaned forward. "When did the Board of Governors for Hogwarts last meet?"

Silence. Then a cacophony of babbling. Prewett banged a gavel on the desk. "Silence!"

The babbling died down but Severus could see several people waving their hands as they talked to their neighbors, likely behind a silencing barrier.

More banging. "ORDER!" Prewett used a Sonorous charm to get the attention of the members of the Wizengamot. When it was reasonably quiet, Prewett looked up at the visitor's seating. "Headmaster Dumbledore is in attendance. We should ask him." Prewett looked up. "Aurors? Please escort Headmaster Dumbledore to the floor."

Severus could not see Dumbledore from where he was sitting but it was only a few minutes before Dumbledore was on the floor of the Wizengamot.

"Headmaster," Prewett said. "There seems to be some questions about Hogwarts, the curriculum, and the Board of Governors. Would you address the questions raised?"

"It is a bit unseemly for this body to be asking such questions," Dumbledore protested.

"Hogwarts is funded by the Ministry," Prewett frowned. "As such, it is appropriate for this body to ask questions."

"I do not have the information requested at hand," Dumbledore tried. "I would be glad to come to the next meeting of the Wizengamot and discuss such matters then."

"Perhaps we could start with a simple question," Arcturus said from his box. "When--" he held up a hand as Dumbledore started to speak "--approximately, did the Board of Governors for Hogwarts last meet? This summer, last spring... last year?" Arcturus leaned forward. "More than a year ago? Surely, you should remember when such an important group met last."

Severus could see Dumbledore trying to evade the question. "When is not important..."

"I think it is!"

Severus turned his head to see that Lord Longbottom had spoken. Severus was heartened at the unexpected support, especially from a known Light family like the Longbottoms.

"Now Locryn," Dumbledore said genially, patting the air in front of him.

"On this floor, it is Lord Longbottom," he said firmly. "The Longbottom family has a long history of serving on the Board of Governors for Hogwarts and, as far as I know, I am still a member of that Board. I have asked you and asked you and now ask you again. When will the Board of Governors of Hogwarts meet?" He glared at Dumbledore. "I have not been invited to a meeting in at least five years."

Chaos.

Severus sat back, watching as Prewett banged his gavel to control the crowd. He finally reached forward on the desk he was sitting behind and brushed his hand across a rune. Silence fell.

"I have enacted the Control rune for the chamber," Prewett announced. "You are all now behind silencing wards and can only speak when I allow you." He looked at Dumbledore, who stood in the center of the hall. "That includes you, too, Headmaster."

Dumbledore shrugged.

"Lord Longbottom," Prewett turned to the man. "Please elaborate on your last statement. You claim that the Board of Governors of Hogwarts has not met in the last five years."

"To be precise, I have not been invited to a meeting in the past five years," Longbottom said carefully. "I have asked Headmaster Dumbledore on multiple occasions about the next meeting and he has assured me that I will be notified. If there has been a meeting, I have not been notified."

"Who else was at the last meeting you attended?" Prewett asked.

"Lord Malfoy, Lord Greengrass, Garrick Ollivander, a Ministry official from the Department of Transportation, which I will admit to never understanding, Professor McGonagall, Alastor Moody from the DMLE, myself, and Headmaster Dumbledore," Longbottom listed.

"Thank you," Prewett said. He looked at Abraxas Malfoy. "Lord Malfoy. Do you remember that meeting, five years ago?"

"I do," Malfoy said coolly.

"Have there been any meeting of the Board of Governors for Hogwarts since that meeting?" Prewett went on.

"I have not been invited to any meetings since that meeting," Malfoy admitted.

Severus could see Dumbledore gritting his teeth while attempting to appear collected.

Prewett said, "Thank you, Lord Malfoy. Has anyone here attended a Board of Governors for Hogwarts meeting in the past five years? Please light your wand so I may call on you."

Severus looked around and saw no lit wands.

"Some of those listed are not members of the Wizengamot," Prewett said. "Lord Longbottom, as a known member of that Board who was at that meeting, would you contact those not in attendance today and determine if they have attended any meetings in the past five years and report back to this body?"

Longbottom nodded. "I will," he replied.

Prewett drummed his fingers on the desk in front of him. "The next order of business was to select the next Chief Warlock or Chief Witch for the Wizengamot. I feel like I have served this body long enough and asked for members of the Wizengamot to propose who they feel would be a worthy successor. However, the only name put forward has been Headmaster Dumbledore's and, in light of the information this body is seeking, I will put off my retirement from this position for another year."

Severus watched Dumbledore momentarily seethe before regaining his composure at that announcement.

"All in favor of extending my service in this position for another twelve months, light your wands, please," Prewett said. "And it will be for only one year."

Severus lit his wand and while the vote was not unanimous, it was enough of a majority to keep Prewett in the position.

"The motion is carried," Prewett said. He looked around. "I hate to ask. Is there any new business?"

Fleamont raised his wand.

"Yes, Lord Potter?" Although Severus could hear a thread of what now? in that greeting.

"I have information to share with the Wizengamot," Fleamont said. "I have recently learned that the person who calls himself Lord Voldemort is neither a Lord nor a pure-Blood. In fact, his name is Tom Riddle. His mother was a Full Blood witch, a squib, and the last member of the house of Gaunt. His father was a Muggle, not even a Squib. That makes Mr. Riddle a half-blood, at best." As the audience watched, stunned, Fleamont performed the anagram that Severus had performed for him.

Severus thought it was a good thing the silencing wards were still raised. He could see several of the Dark families, known followers of Voldemort, standing and shouting.

"For anyone who is a follower of Tom Riddle, I do remind you that the Pure Blood families can use their Family magic to track all the members of the family. I would be interested in knowing which Pure Blood family claims him." Fleamont nodded his head at Prewett. "Perhaps if we had taken lessons in Family magic when we attended Hogwarts, we would remember that. That is all for today. Thank you."

That last had the shouters staring at Fleamont.

Prewett rubbed a hand across his forehead. "I hate to ask. Anything else for this session?"

No one lit their wand.

"I light of the information presented here today, I am declaring an emergency meeting of the Wizengamot one week from today," Prewett said. "Lord Longbottom, is that sufficient time to make the contacts you need?"

"I will make the time," Longbottom replied with a firm nod.

"Any family that would like to publicly claim Tom Riddle as a member of their family can do so at the next meeting," Prewett said. "That will give the Ministry time to contact all Pure Blood families to let them know that the option is open to them." He banged his gavel. "This session of the Wizengamot is closed."

The noise canceling wards were released with that and there were loud voices coming from multiple points of the Chamber. Severus stayed in his seat for the moment, allowing some of the crowd to filter out. As he finally made his way to the floor, Fleamont stopped him. "Come to dinner? Euphemia and Melania have conspired something together that is better to agree with than to fight."

"I do not want to be a bother," Severus demurred.

"Nonsense!" Fleamont grinned. "I have been ordered to produce you, so you might as well just come along."

"In that case, I would be glad to come to dinner," Severus agreed.

Fleamont looked around. "We have been invited to use a less public route out of here," he said. "I suspect neither of us want to be interrogated by other members of the Wizengamot just as yet."

"Nor by Headmaster Dumbledore." Severus could see a small crowd that included Lord Longbottom gathered around Dumbledore.

"Good point," Fleamont nodded. He took Severus down a short corridor to find Arcturus waiting for them.

"An apparition point accessible only by Ancient and Noble House members," Arcturus explained. He led the way down a short corridor and pushed through a door to a small room. "We can apparate from here. Severus, I will bring you with me to get through the wards at the manor. Fleamont, give us a moment and follow."

"Be right behind you," Fleamont nodded.

Chapter Text

Severus caught himself easily as they landed in what he assumed was the arrival room for Black Manor.

"Well done!" Arcturus said. "Come, the ladies are eager to meet you. Fleamont will follow in a moment."

They went into the manor where two women were obviously waiting for them.

"Melania Black, my wife," Arcturus introduced the older of the two. "Severus Snape, Lord Prince."

"Glad to meet you, madame," Severus gave a small bow.

"Please, I am Melania," she said with a smile. "So glad to meet you."

"I am Severus," Severus replied.

Fleamont came into the arrival room behind them.

"This is Euphemia Potter, Fleamont's wife," Arcturus continued.

"Please, Euphemia," she said.

"Severus."

"All right! Now that we have that done, how did it go?" Euphemia asked eagerly.

"Very well!" Arcturus beamed. "Dumbledore was not happy when we left."

"Now, now, now," Melania chided. "Let the men get out of those hideous robes before we start to grill them. Even with the comfort charms, they must be annoying."

Oh! Severus hadn't thought about changing clothes. He had a new button-down shirt and trousers underneath the robes but wasn't sure if that was appropriate.

"Perhaps Severus would like a chance to have a moment to himself?" Melania suggested.

"I will throw myself in your hands," Severus decided to play up to his age. "I do not know what is acceptable wear."

He could hear Euphemia hissing at Fleamont that you should have warned the poor boy! but he ignored that and kept his eyes on Melania.

"We will be casual tonight," Melania looked around. "So casual clothes will be more than acceptable."

"I will be fine, then," Severus replied. "Thank you."

"Still, let me show you to a room where you can take those robes off and leave them while you are here," Melania said. "Come with me."

"You'll be fine," Arcturus said. "We'll meet in the library in a bit."

"Thank you," Severus said again. He followed Melania up to the second floor and she opened a door.

"One of our guest rooms," she said. "There is an en suite. Call for Nelly if you need a guide to the Library."

"I will do that," Severus said.

After she left, he took off the robes, hung them in the wardrobe along one wall and made his way to the bathroom. He used the facilities and it did feel good to wash his hands.

He exited the room and paused for a moment. He knew which way to go to get back to where they had been but that was not necessarily the way to the library.

"Hello."

Startled, Severus turned to find both James Potter and Sirius Black in the hallway. They were dressed in t-shirts, jeans, and trainers. He suspected they would not be at dinner, unless they would be sent to change. And he had not expected them to be at Black Manor at all.

"Hello," Severus replied warily.

James poked Sirius, who took a breath and took one step closer to Sirius without crowding him.

"We...I owe you an apology for the way I treated you at Hogwarts," Sirius said formally. "I have behaved badly for no good reason. I do not request forgiveness but I only hope we can be fair with one another in the future."

Sirius took a step back and let James move forward.

"I also owe you an apology for my behaviour at Hogwarts," James said. "I was jealous of your friendship with Lily, and encouraged my friends to make you the target of our pranks. Some of which were admittedly cruel. I do not request forgiveness but, like Sirius, I can only hope we can be fair with one another in the future."

James took a step back so the two were standing side-by-side.

Severus took a breath and let them wait for a moment.

"Thank you," Severus replied. "I appreciate your effort and, as you say, if we can be fair to each other in the future, that is all I can ask. I have sought my own forgiveness from Lily and she is considering the future of our friendship." Severus saw James' eyes narrow at that and decided to forestall that discussion. "That is between Lily and myself. However, I would highly recommend the two of you take the time to visit the Book of Souls before school starts."

Both James and Sirius frowned. "Why..."

"One never knows what one will find," Severus said. "I have recommended the same to Lily."

James' eyes went wide. "Oh."

"Perhaps you can help me find the Library?" Severus asked. "I am meeting with Arcturus and Fleamont there and do not know where it is." Severus deliberately used the older men's first names to emphasize his close relationship to the adults in their lives.

"Right. We can do that!" Sirius grinned. "How was your stuffy Wizengamot meeting?"

"Not as stuffy as one might think," Severus replied as he followed Sirius down the stairs and to the Library. "I suspect Arcturus will share the main parts of the meeting with you soon."

"That will be... good," Sirius admitted.

"You've never paid attention?" Severus asked.

"James' father would go but, well, no one really told us much about what went on," Sirius admitted.

"Not something I normally would care about," Severus agreed. "But did you know the Ministry technically runs Hogwarts?"

"I read that in Hogwarts: A History, I think," James added.

"Did you know Dumbledore has likely been running the school without outside approval on any changes he has made?" Severus went on.

James frowned. "Is that why there are no sports besides Quidditch and Gobstones?"

"Exactly," Severus nodded.

"Reg..." Sirius cleared his throat. "Reg would have loved to play on a footie team. But only Quidditch can use the field for anything."

"I was not aware," Severus replied.

"Most of your Slytherins would rag on him for something like that," Sirius shot back. "It's too Muggle."

"I don't know," Severus frowned. "I know of at least a couple of the younger Slytherins could use an outlet like football. Even just within the House." He thought for a moment. "I suspect there are enough to have at least a pick-up game." He turned to Sirius. "Good to know and I will bring it up."

"Thanks?" Sirius was somewhat surprised at being taken seriously. "And here is the Library."

"Good to see you," Severus nodded.

"You, also," Sirius replied.

Severus found Fleamont and Arcturus already describing the session to Euphemia and Melania. The women giggled as Fleamont told of Lord Longbottom's entry into the debate.

"Good for him!" Melania said.

They frowned at the discussion about Tom Riddle's supposed place as a Pure Blood. Fleamont turned to Severus. "Do that thing," he said. "You do it better than I can."

Severus snorted softly but he did the anagram where Riddle proclaimed himself Lord Voldemort.

"Well, I never!" Euphemia huffed. "You are right. If this Voldemort is supposed to be from a Pure Blood family, someone should be able to step up and claim him."

"You may want to keep an ear out, to see what other discussion there may be," Arcturus said. "Some of Riddle's known followers were not pleased at the information."

"I shared that with my Account Manager," Severus admitted. "I do not know what the Horde is doing with that information, but I would suspect they are doing their own investigation."

"Good to know!" Arcturus nodded. "Better to have them working with us than against us."

"There is no general benefit to a war," Severus said. "The only ones who come out ahead are the profiteers. Even the winning side will suffer too many losses."

"Wisely said," Euphemia agreed. "And I know James and Sirius would be on the front lines of any war, no matter what we would like."

Remembering both James and Sirius left Hogwarts and immediately became Aurors, Severus knew that was true.

"May I ask about Regulus?" Severus said. "He's not in our year but, well, I know enough from Sirius that Reg was not being treated well at home."

Arcturus and Melania looked at each other. Arcturus gave a small nod.

"We have had Regulus with a Healer in the last weeks," Melania said. "He is suffering from curse damage and some physical abuse. He is doing well and should be relatively healthy by the time Hogwarts starts. He will be seeing a Healer regularly for the first part of the year and they will re-evaluate that once he comes home for Yule."

"I am glad he is safe," Severus said. "Thank you for sharing that with me."

"I am working to cast Walburga and Orion out of the Family Magic," Arcturus admitted. "With Regulus' health, I won't do it until Yule. But the boys will need all the support they can get when it happens. For all their failings, they are the boys' parents."

Severus almost hesitated but knew this was a good time to share this information.

"My Lord's ring insisted that I see a Healer for something that was wrong with me," he started. "Most of what the Healer found is not relevant but she did find a core block that, upon removal, was determined to be not-quite-Dark. It was not only limiting my core but was meant to be used only by Healers on patients that needed to be controlled. If left much longer, it would have given me what is called a sociopathic personality. I could function among others but I would not have any feelings and little care for what is right or wrong."

"Severus!" Euphemia said in dismay.

"It has been removed and I am doing well," Severus hastened to reassure her. "But, the Healers I saw said it is not something that is usually checked for. The best I can guess, we assume there were Memory charms involved, it that it was applied when I was about four years old." He looked at Arcturus. "It may be worth checking Sirius, James and Regulus out."

"Who would do such a thing?" Fleamont demanded.

"The Healers only retrieved a partial magical signature," Severus replied. "However, when I recounted the story to my Account Manager, he was keenly interested. The Horde has information on a similar block being placed on others and considers it an abomination against Magic."

"That is... horrifying," Melania said softly. "Are you sure you are well?"

Severus nodded. "I am much better and I have seen my Healer once already and will be going back soon. I have good care." He grinned. "I suspect it is a relative since I am seeing Miranda Cassiopeia Black."

"A distant cousin," Arcturus replied. "I have not met her but have heard good things."

"I have been treated well and fairly," Severus said. "Sometimes, that is all one can ask for."

"We will reach out to her and ask about having the boys checked," Euphemia promised.

A House Elf popped into the room. "Dinner is ready."

"Good! I've worked up an appetite!" Arcturus announced as he stood.

Dinner was elegant, for all that Melania had said 'casual.' There were multiple courses, palate cleansers, and an artful dessert at the end. It was the most formal casual dinner Severus had attended.

"That was wonderful," Severus said at the end. "I've never had anything like it."

"We don't eat like this during the week," Melania admitted. "But a good meal is always needed after a Wizengamot session. And you are welcome to come by next week after the session also. I know there will be topics for discussion and these two will want to dig right into it."

Arcturus laughed and patted his wife's hand. "You know me too well, my dear!"

"In preparation for next time, then," Severus put in hesitantly. "May I call my House Elf to bring appropriate clothing? I do not know the protocol for that and need to ask."

"When you're ready to leave, I'll have you call him to the Floo room," Arcturus said. "That will allow him access to that room through the wards and then he can go to you within the house."

Severus nodded. "Thank you."

"Drinks in the Library," Arcturus announced. Melania cleared her throat gently. Arcturus turned to Severus. "We have a variety of beverages, some of which you may find more appropriate."

"Both my age and my upbringing means that I am completely untutored in adult libations," Severus admitted, needing to remember his current age. "I have had drinks on occasion, of course, but mostly whatever an upper year would share or my Da would share a Muggle beer with me."

Although 'share' was a misnomer. Over the last two summers that Severus was home, Tobias would shove a bottle of beer in Severus' hand and insist he drink it down. It would "make a man" was Tobias' thinking. But since Tobias rarely had much money, Severus knew it was cheap beer and it had tasted cheap. Later in life, Severus had learned to appreciate quality Muggle beer, knowing it to be far different from what Tobias had foisted on him.

"Wine?" Euphemia asked.

"I have spent time this summer exploring a variety of cuisines in Muggle restaurants," Severus replied. "I have had wine that was paired with a meal several times. I have enjoyed what was given to me but I could never create the pairing and often do not know what I am drinking."

"Lessons all around!" Melania said. "You don't need to know a lot but knowing a few things about wines, what goes well with different types of meals, and how to describe what you are drinking is an important skill to have."

Fleamont snorted. "It helps you deal with the wine snobs, if nothing else," he explained. "Many of the Pure Blood families go on and on about such things and being able to hold your own among them will be a skill you'll need to develop."

"Then I will appreciate any help you can provide," Severus said to Melania. "Thank you."

"And you will take us to at least one of your Muggle restaurants," Euphemia said. "We need to know more about what Muggles are doing and how they live. It's too easy to get wrapped up in our own problems and not realize there may be solutions that we have ignored, only because they are Muggle."

"Euphemia..." Fleamont started.

She turned to him and huffed. "That is all very true and you know it! I'm glad Severus has been experimenting and enjoying himself. He seems to be a sensible young man and while I know you are teaching him a lot, he can share what he knows."

Fleamont rubbed his forehead. "All right, all right." He looked to Severus. "It looks like we're going to dinner together. What would you suggest?"

Severus held in a giggle. "I have a lovely Italian restaurant and have made friends with one of the staff. I can promise a wonderful meal." He did glance around. "Although it is purely Muggle. You'll have to wear Muggle clothes..."

"Even better!" Melania nodded. "It will be fun!"

The two men looked less convinced of the 'fun' aspect but Severus knew they would go along with the adventure.

"What you are wearing now is close to what you would need to wear that evening," Severus said. He decided to take a chance. "James and Sirius would be welcome to come, also."

"Good idea!" Fleamont agreed. "It would be a good way to get the boys out of here, as well as spend some time with them."

"When should we go?" Euphemia asked.

"Saturday," Melania said immediately. "If we don't do it right away, then the boys will be back in school and we'll never get to it."

The men looked at each other and Fleamont grinned. "I guess we are going to dinner on Saturday!"

"Pick a general time and I will make a reservation," Severus nodded. "It is a popular restaurant and, with a group like ours, I will need to make sure they can seat us."

"Good thought!" Arcturus nodded.

They settled on a general time and Severus promised to let them know what he could get a reservation for.

"It's not far from the Leaky Cauldron," Severus told them. "We can meet there and then walk the few blocks to the restaurant."

"Even more fun!" Euphemia said.

Fleamont pointed at her. "You get to tell the boys!"

"Not a problem!" she replied.

Chapter Text

Having the next day free was helpful to Severus. After the Wizengamot meeting and dinner with the Potters and the Blacks, it was good to have some time to gather his thoughts.

Spot made breakfast and then Severus dressed casually, planning on going out to Muggle London. His first act was to make a reservation for dinner for Saturday. The restaurant could not handle them at the time initially requested but Severus was able to negotiate a reasonable time. He sent Charlton to the Potter and then the Black residences to confirm the exact time.

Knowing he was currently buried in reading materials, he returned his library books. Mostly so he would not forget to do so.

Remembering his discussion with Master Antony about outerwear, he realized he needed some casual jackets. The warm London weather had lulled him into forgetting how cold it was at Hogwarts most of the year. He would have good clothes but needed some jackets, sweaters, and bathrobes he could wear other times. Now that he knew more about clothing, he shopped in several stores before he found things he liked and that fit well.

He stopped at a pub for a simple lunch, remembering Healer Black's mention about his weight. It did feel good to have actual meals when he was hungry and not make do with whatever was at hand.

For dinner, he found a different Indian restaurant and tried their curry. It was slightly different but still good. He made a note to come back and try other dishes on another night.

He poked at his forgotten school bag and found the summer assignments Lily had reminded him of. Fortunately, it did not take too long for him to rough out the essays required and he could polish them up another night.

The next day was a return to the Healer's. He greeted Annabelle and waited briefly for Healer Black.

"Lord Prince!" Black greeted him. "Come up with me!"

She performed the now-routine diagnostic spell and they sat at the table.

"You are doing well and I see that maturation has occurred," she said.

"Yes, over the weekend after we met last," Severus replied. "It was four days but my House Elf was concerned on day three, which is why we messaged you."

"And that's what we're here for!" she nodded. "But it turned out well, I think."

"It did," Severus replied. "I have approached Professor Flitwick for information on wandless magic. It feels... just out of reach, if that makes sense."

"It does," she nodded. "That is a strong indicator that you should be able to perform at least some magic wandlessly. Starting small is always a good way to go. Go back to your first year spells and charms, then think about how those work. And everyone will be different. Some wizards focus on a handful of simple skills and do those well. But I think your power levels mean you should be able to do a fair amount of magic without a wand."

"Anything else?" Severus asked. "I am due to return to Hogwarts in three weeks."

"I do see the potential for another maturation, interestingly enough," she mused. "But... not for a while. At least a couple of years, I think."

"So much has happened, I could use a break," Severus grinned.

"We are always available to you during the year," Black said. "I would like to see you at the Yule break, if we do not meet before. And let the Elves feed you. Your weight is getting better but you need to keep eating sensibly."

"I have been working on that," Severus admitted. "I do feel better for eating more regularly."

"And your recent maturation, even as a relatively small maturation, will require more food. Keep that in mind," she said.

"I will," Severus agreed.

"Good! Then let's set up an appointment for Yule and I wish you a good school year," Black said cheerfully.

Saturday dawned overcast and rainy, something that was needed after the recent spate of dry but sunny days.

Severus was glad he had purchased a lightweight jacket that he could wear to dinner. It was a drizzly evening and the rain promised to fall through the night.

Sirius and James came with the adults, everyone looking good in their Muggle clothing.

"We helped a bit," Sirius admitted. "Grandfather was going to wear an outlandish outfit before Grandmother talked him into simpler clothes."

"Thank you," Sirius said. "It's easier when wizards don't stand out, especially for all the wrong reasons."

They sat in a side room, since it was a larger group than normal. Severus had again placed his trust in Maria, explaining his dinner companions had never had the northern Italian foods the restaurant specialized in.

Dinner was a grand success. Sirius and James had sat across the table from Severus and he noticed that they watched as Severus negotiated conversation among the adults.

At the end, Arcturus raised his glass and said, "This has been wonderful. Thank you, Severus for exposing us to a lovely experience."

Severus felt himself blushing. "I have to credit Maria for taking me under her wing the first time I came here. She seems to know exactly what is perfect for anyone I bring here."

"I can tell she likes you," Melania said. "You have a good friend there."

"I do," Severus agreed.

"We will see you on Tuesday, if not before," Fleamont said.

"I am looking forward to it," Severus grinned.

"It will be interesting!" Fleamont nodded.

Coming to the Ministry in his Wizengamot robes was slightly less overwhelming the second time. No one was waiting for him, so he proceeded directly to the meeting chamber.

Severus had brought a notebook this time. There were no rules about taking notes, he had checked, so he thought it would be easier if he had pen -- a fountain pen, as a compromise between a quill and a Muggle pen -- and paper with him. He settled into his box.

The warning chime brought a flood of people into the room and the final chime saw stragglers hurrying inside. Chief Warlock Prewitt called the meeting to order.

Dumbledore was escorted to a seat at the front of the room and an Auror stood near the chair. Severus was not close enough to see if Dumbledore's normal twinkle was in his eyes. He suspected not.

"We had two major orders of business today," Prewett reminded them. "Those are the only issues being addressed and the body will accept no new business."

A small wave of noise that Severus could not tell if it was relief or complaint.

"First of all, Lord Longbottom," Prewett said. "Please present your information on the Hogwarts Board of Governors."

Longbottom stood in his box. "I have contacted the members of the Board of Governors that were present at the last meeting I attended, five years ago. None of the members that were present have been invited to a meeting since that last meeting."

Murmuring swept across the room.

"In accordance with the Charter for Hogwarts, which allows any member of the Board to convene a meeting, as long as three-quarters of the members are present, I hosted a meeting of the Board. All of the members who were present five years ago attended this meeting," Longbottom went on. "I invoked the oath we had taken when I was sworn into the Board and it responded, showing it was still active. All of the other members did the same. We concluded that we have not been officially dismissed from the Board."

The murmuring grew louder.

Severus could see Dumbledore grinding his teeth while trying to look unconcerned.

"The Board has passed a resolution, unanimously, that Albus Dumbledore should be removed as the Headmaster of Hogwarts," Longbottom concluded. "Also, that the Vault of the school should be audited for any irregularities."

The noise grew to the point that prompted Prewett to activate the noise rune from his desk.

"Thank you, Lord Longbottom," Prewett said with a nod. "I assume you have a written summary for me to pass to the Ministry?"

Longbottom nodded. "I have," he said. He picked up a sheaf of parchment and handed it to the Auror who came over to his seat.

"The Wizengamot thanks you for your service," Prewett said. He looked up at the Wizengamot. "Only a simple vote is required at this point. All in favor of removing Albus Dumbledore as the Headmaster of Hogwarts and requesting an audit of the school Vault, light your wands."

Severus lit his wand and he could see that enough wands to be a majority were lit.

"All those against removing Albus Dumbledore as the Headmaster of Hogwarts and requesting an audit of the school Vault, light your wands."

A handful of wands were lit.

That meant a number of abstainers. Interesting.

"The motion has passed," Prewett announced formally. "Albus Dumbledore, the Ministry thanks you for your service and requests that you vacate the school within the next seven days."

Severus gave a small shiver. It was as if that statement broke some sort of magical connection within him. He wondered if anyone else felt it.

"But I have spent a lifetime at the school!" Dumbledore protested. "Where am I to go?"

"That is not something I can answer," Prewett said. "Aurors, please escort Mr. Dumbledore from the floor."

Severus watched Dumbledore finger his wand as he briefly considered a fight with the Aurors before ungracefully giving in. He stalked off the floor and out the door.

"Now to the matter of Tom Riddle, also known as Lord Voldemort," Prewett went on as the doors closed behind Dumbledore.

The silencing wards were still active but Severus saw several other members of the Wizengamot sit up.

"Staff from the Department of Mysteries started by reaching out to all members of the Sacred Twenty-Eight families," Prewett reported. "There were no responses from the Avery, Carrow, Gaunt, Lestrange, Rosier, or Yaxley families."

Severus, like many others, obviously looked around the room to see most of those families, although obviously not the Gaunt family, represented in the Wizengamot today.

"Based on the information provided by Lord Potter to this group," Prewett ignored the movements of the members, "we reached out to Gringotts to assist in determining who may be a living member of the Gaunt family. If there had been no living members of the Gaunt family, the post owl would have refused to take a message. But a message was delivered and accepted by someone who is a member of the Gaunt family."

Severus held his breath.

"Examination of public records in Little Hangleton where the Gaunt Family was last known to live, revealed that Merope Gaunt was married to Thomas Riddle, who abandoned his pregnant wife before she could give birth," Prewett said. He looked up, "There is a strong suspicion that Thomas Riddle was given a love potion prior to the marriage but that could not be proven in the short time before this report was written. Merope Gaunt died soon after childbirth, giving her son the name Tom Marvolo Riddle, Junior and her son was raised in a Muggle orphanage. Although it should be noted that Marvolo is Merope's father's name and not Thomas Riddle, Senior's name. Again, we do not know why she would consider her son a Junior, since the names are not the same."

Prewett cleared his throat.

"A second letter was sent via post owl to the Gaunt Family, care of Tom Marvolo Riddle," Prewett said. "As with the previous Gaunt letter, the second letter was delivered and accepted. A third letter was sent to Tom Marvolo Riddle, Lord Voldemort. Again, the letter was delivered and accepted." He looked up. "At this point in time, both the Department of Mysteries and Gringotts Bank accept the fact that Lord Voldemort and Tom Marvolo Riddle are one and the same. He is a half-blood member of the Gaunt family."

Severus felt a wave of relief, although he could see a variety of reactions from Volde--, no, Riddle's known followers. Most were standing and shouting against the silencing wards. But the Rosier and Avery family representatives were sitting still. Whether shaken, being confident or merely considering their options, Severus could not tell.

"The members of the Wizengamot are entitles to copies of this report," Prewett stated, using another feature of the Chief Wizard's desk. A small sheaf of parchment appeared before Severus. "Anyone with additional information can send it to the Department of Mysteries or to Gringotts Bank. The two groups are working together with the Department of Magical Law Enforcement to determine Mr. Riddle's location and bring him in for questioning." He looked up. "Anyone with information on Mr. Riddle's location is asked to contact either group."

He looked at the members around the room. "That concludes the business of this emergency session of the Wizengamot." He released the silencing rune and quickly left the room.

Severus took the parchment, to read closely later. He went down to Arcturus' box and Arcturus nodded at Severus. "Come for dinner tonight?" Arcturus asked.

"Certainly," Severus nodded. "I will see you later."

Chapter Text

Sirius and Regulus, without James, joined Arcturus and Melania for dinner with Severus.

"The boys are old enough to know what is going on," Arcturus announced. Melania didn't look so sure but did not protest.

Dinner conversation revolved around the Wizengamot meeting.

"I hadn't thought about using post owls to find someone like that," Sirius admitted. "That was clever."

"It was," Arcturus nodded. "Again, something simple like that should be more widely known, however they would likely not have uncovered Riddle without it."

Regulus looked up from his plate. "Mother sent me a Howler about it. She was... unhappy at the news."

Arcturus frowned. "I will deal with Wallburga," he promised. "Do you want to receive messages from her in the future?"

Regulus hesitated, then gave a minute shake of his head.

"We can talk later but I will make sure she does not have any contact with you until you are ready," Arcturus said. Regulus' shoulders relaxed.

Arcturus looked at Sirius with an arched eyebrow.

"Oh, she's already given up on me," Sirius said cheerfully. "But, if you could make sure..." he added hesitantly.

"I will include you in that," Arcturus said.

"Thank you, grandfather," Sirius nodded.

"Who do you think might replace Dumbledore?" Severus asked.

"That is a good question," Arcturus replied thoughtfully. "Professor McGonagall is the Assistant Head right now but I don't know if she will be considered. She may suffer from her closeness to Dumbledore, in that she should have known what was going on."

"Considering that Dumbledore fooled the entire Board of Governors for five years, I wouldn't blame her too much," Severus suggested.

"Good point!" Arcturus nodded.

"Although she may be under some kind of an oath not to reveal Dumbledore's actions," Melania pointed out. "She is younger than Dumbledore and he may have fooled her into an oath that was more encompassing than she thought."

"Too true," Arcturus agreed. "Another reason to think twice, and three times, before taking any binding oath."

"Maybe they will select someone totally new to Hogwarts," Sirius said.

"That would probably be for the best," Severus agreed.

"Whomever is selected will be closely questioned before they are approved," Arcturus said.

"Do we even know the process for selecting a new Headmaster?" Severus asked.

Arcturus considered. "I do not know. Let us hope it is done with care."

After dinner, Sirius escorted Severus to the Floo room. "Umm... have you been to the Book of Souls?" Sirius asked softly.

Severus shook his head. "I have not had a chance."

"You... you may want to consider it," Sirius said. "Even if you don't have a Soul Mate, or at least one right now, it's amazing."

"You have one?" Severus had to ask.

Sirius blushed and nodded. "It's... awkward."

"We're all young yet, and still in school," Severus said. "We have time to work out some of that awkwardness."

Sirius rolled his eyes. "I hope so!" A sigh. "But, thank you."

"Have you told anyone?" Severus asked.

"James was there, but, no one else," Sirius admitted.

"Then I am honored you have told me this much," Severus said.

"Thank you for helping us," Sirius said. "Especially Reg. I... I don't know what might have happened, otherwise."

"Things have worked out for the best," Severus replied. "See you on the train? If not before?"

"Yes!" Sirius nodded. "See you then!"

Heartened by at least an amicable truce, and maybe the beginning of something resembling a friendship, Severus went home.

The next day, Severus sent Charlus out with a round of messages.

Professor Flitwick,

I was in the Wizengamot when Professor Dumbledore was removed as Headmaster. I know you and he were friends and this is a surprise to us all. I am working with Lords Black and Potter and will be receiving tutoring in Family Magic, and I suspect the tutor who will be teaching us might be approached for a position at Hogwarts. We have exchanged letters this summer and he is a recent graduate but he seems like a good instructor.

I know you will be busy since the start of school is near but I would enjoy meeting for lunch. We could meet in Hogsmeade, if that is easier for you.

In appreciation, Severus

It would be good for them to meet at least one more time before the start of school. Severus also wanted to ask if they could set up regular meetings during the year, even just to talk.

Professor McGonagall,

I understand you will be busy with start of school activities but I was wondering if I might join you for tea some day? I would like to start working on my animagus form and would appreciate any guidance you might offer.

If it is simpler to wait for the start of classes, I can do that, also.

Thank you for your consideration.

Severus Snape

He considered adding the Lord Prince title but since this was a semi-personal request, he left if off. But asking about his animagus form allowed him to make a personal contact with Minerva.

Mam,

School starts again in a few weeks and I would like to take you out to lunch so we can visit. Is Wednesday convenient for you?

Severus

Even just writing the note to his mother send a thread of... something like relief though him. He'd have to ask about that when he talked to the Family Magic tutor. He'd have to see about visiting the Italian manor to visit with the Prince family members there. They would have sent an Elf if they needed something but a personal visit was worth doing. Oh. He went back to the messages for the one for Flitwick.

I will be visiting the Italian manor on Tuesday, if you can carve out a free day and would like to come with me. It will be more difficult to visit the family there once school starts and I have an... impulse to visit them in person. I will be asking the tutor about it but perhaps you know something? I will arrange a portkey from the Bank for nine am and meet you at the bank.

Going with another adult would be better, although going alone wouldn't be terrible, since he had been there once. He wished for a moment he could take his mother but the Family Magic would not allow him to do that. Maybe that is a project he could work on with the tutor.

He hesitated but then figured it couldn't hurt to ask.

Lily,

As part of the Prince Lordship, I find I have a small manor, and family, just outside of Rome, Italy. I have asked Professor Flitwick to accompany me but thought you might like to come with us. It would be just for the day. I'm arranging for a portkey from Gringott's at nine am since it is one hour later in Rome than it is here.

We would stay for lunch and we would be back about dinner time. If Professor Flitwick goes with us, he could apparate you directly home, rather than having to have your parents pick you up. If he cannot come with us, I would be glad to escort you on the Tube. Whichever works best for you.

--Severus

Hmm. He had never checked on his own apparition license. Although he couldn't officially get one until he turned seventeen and that was a year and a half away. But he was largely out of time. It could wait at his point. He would contact Flitwick or maybe Knifehand about it after school started.

His school letter must have come when he wasn't looking and Spot had simply gone out and gotten his books and materials.

"Thank you," Severus said when he realized what the Elf had done. "This is very helpful."

"Master Severus is busy man," Spot said. "I am glad to help."

Severus looked at the Elf. "Can you read?" he asked.

"Some," Spot admitted, shaking his head dolefully. "I not good at it."

"Consider this permission to read any books I have," Severus offered. "You can ask questions and I will help you the best I can."

"Spot can read books?" He looked thrilled.

"Definitely," Severus said. "And that applies to any Prince Elves. If there are books anyone would like or subjects anyone would like to learn, let me know. I can't promise to help everyone but you certainly can help each other."

Spot ran up to Severus and threw his arms about Severus' knees. "Oh, Lord Prince is the best master!" he said enthusiastically.

Severus awkwardly patted the Elf before Spot let go. "I go tell the others!" He popped away.

Yet another thing he needed to learn more about. Why did House Elves need explicit permission to read books? Wouldn't having a better educated Elf serve the family better? Another question for another day.

Charlton came back about dinner time.

I hope you got some food and water along the way," Severus said as he took the parchments from the owl.

Charlton hooted cheerfully.

"Good," Severus replied. "I'm done for today, so get anything you need and rest. There may be more tomorrow."

Another cheerful hoot and Charlton made his way to his perch.

Severus,

While I would love to go to Italy, I cannot afford to be away for an entire day right now. With the changes being made, now that there will be a new Headmaster, the entire staff is scrambling. Thank you for your recommendation on a Family Magic instructor. I have passed that on.

If you are open to lunch in Hogsmeade, I am open to that. There currently are no meetings scheduled for Friday, if that works for you.

--Filius Flitwick

Severus realized he should start keeping a calendar. He could ask Flitwick, and maybe Minerva... damn. Professor McGonagall for suggestions.

He made a note that Friday was acceptable and to meet in the Three Broomsticks at noon. He set that aside for Charlton to take in the morning.

Mr. Snape

I would be glad to discuss steps to finding your animagus form over tea. I should be free a week Monday and will let you know if that changes.

Minerva McGonagall

In his first timeline, and that was still a surprising thought in his head, Severus never sought his animagus form. With the changes in his power levels, maturations, and free from the bindings, he hoped he would have the ability to do so. And if James and Sirius could do it, Severus knew he could.

Sev!

I'd love to go to Italy, even for the day. Mom and Dad are impressed that you have a manor in Italy, even if it is small. What should I wear? I don't want to be too out of place.

Lily

Oh. What to wear? Well, they would be at the manor and it was August in Italy.

Professor Flitwick cannot go, so if that changes your decision, I do understand. I have a Great-Aunt and her companion that live in the manor that we will be visiting. There is a distant cousin but I assume he will be working. So no robes but something nice, if that makes sense? Whatever you wear will be fine.

See you at the Bank.

Severus

The note to his mother was returned with a short sentence.

Lunch on Wednesday would be nice. Thank you.

Good. He could then tell her about the family in Italy and see how that went.

Chapter Text

Severus normally did not take the Daily Prophet but he made a point to get a copy. Dumbledore's removal as Headmaster made up almost the entire paper.

He was interested to see a reasonably unbiased article about the dismissal. The article was obviously not written by Rita Skeeted and was not credited to any one writer. Possibly from the Ministry, Severus thought. There were articles both for and against Dumbledore, although no direct interviews. Severus vaguely wondered where Dumbledore had gone to.

On Friday, Severus took the Floo from the Leaky to the Three Broomsticks. He'd have to see about getting that soot charm that was on his Wizengamot robes on all his clothes. Maybe Spot knew it, or could learn it.

Severus chose a table off to one side. Rosmerta came over and Severus ordered a butter beer, mostly for the nostalgia. And it was something he'd be running into more when school started. Best to get used to it now.

"Severus!" Flitwick came into the tavern. "This was a good idea. I needed to get out of Hogwarts for a bit and meeting you let me do that."

Severus grinned. "Glad to be of service."

Flitwick also ordered a butter beer. They both ordered the Shepherd's Pie. "More work to do when I go back. So I'll save the real drinking until later tonight."

"What can you tell me?" Severus asked. "If nothing, I do understand."

"The Minister, of course, stuck his foot into this, and after discussion with the Board of Governors, they agreed on a one-year temporary appointment. That will be revisited next Spring. The idea is to allow more time for serious candidates to be interviewed," Flitwick said.

"That actually makes some sense," Severus admitted.

"They selected Professor Frick Tofty from the Wizarding Examinations Authority," Flitwick said softly. "It's to be announced next week but he has already started working on some of the curriculum issues that need to be addressed. So keep that to yourself."

"I will," Severus nodded. "I would think someone from the Ministry would have been expected."

"True," Flitwick agreed. "He is familiar with what is being taught and has teaching experience. He has also firmly stated he plans to be Headmaster for only the one year, since he was planning on retiring and his wife will be unhappy at the delay."

"Oh. A married man," Severus said. "That will be interesting."

"He's bound and determined to bring in more married couples," Flitwick replied. "So there will be a lot of changes by the time school starts."

"Good to know," Severus replied. "I'd like to set up regular meetings with you during the school year, also. You have been very helpful to me and I would like to continue working with you."

"You've changed a lot this summer," Flitwick nodded. "For the better."

"I... I feel better than I have in a long time," Severus admitted. "Seeing a Healer and eating regularly have been some of the best changes I have made."

They talked about some of the schoolwork that would be coming up during the year, although all of the changes Tofty would be making had not yet been implemented.

"Thank you for your time," Severus said as they finished up.

"Enjoy your day in Italy," Flitwick said. "I wish I could go with you."

"Maybe some other time," Severus promised.

"I would like that!"

Severus spent the weekend looking over the school list and perusing the textbooks. He finished up the summer homework so that would be ready to hand in when classes started. While he remembered much of the material, there were some things he would have to review. And to remember not to know too much. That would be a balancing act.

Spot also presented a list of books that the other Elves requested. There were a handful of books for beginning readers, which would help any Elf who could not read, as well as a variety of other subjects.

"Kimber not want to write it down, and she did not want to ask, but she would like some Muggle books," Spot admitted.

"That is not a problem," Severus said. "Any particular kind?"

"Muggle stories," Spot grinned.

"You can take the list to Mr. Flourish and ask him for some suggestions," Severus said. "Is that good?"

Spot nodded several times. "Kimber not be sure you allow Muggle books."

"It is not a problem," Severus grinned. He privately wondered if the Elves were interested in Muggle romance books. There really was very little of that sort of entertainment from Wizarding writers and it had been something his mother had read.

"I go back to school in two weeks," Severus said. "We will have to move out of here then."

"Where should we go?" Spot asked.

"I was thinking the house in Cambridgeshire," Severus said. "Prince Manor is lovely but it will be just me."

"The others be sad you not go to Manor," Spot said.

"Perhaps they can work at the house in Cambridgeshire for now," Severus suggested. He considered. "Kimber."

The Elf appeared in the living room. "Lord Prince calls?"

Severus propped his chin on his hand. "Living in Diagon Alley has been convenient this summer but I will need a place to live at Yule and for school breaks."

"Manor is big for one person," Kimber allowed.

"Which is why I was wondering if it would be possible for you and the other to keep the Manor in good shape, you can use the gardens since so much work has been put into them, but also work at the house in Cambridgeshire. I know it's more Muggle but it's also not as big for just me," Severus asked.

"Lord Prince should live at Prince Manor," Kimber said doubtfully.

"And I suspect I will," Severus allowed. "I'm not saying forever but I would be more comfortable at the Cambridgeshire home while I'm in school. There is plenty of room for the one or two friends who I might ask to come and stay."

"Just while in school?" Kimber negotiated.

"Most likely," Severus nodded. "Although I may want to use the potions lab at the Manor but not until next summer."

"We can do," Kimber nodded.

"Thank you," Severus replied. "And you have trained Spot well. He has been very helpful to me."

"He be good Elf," she grinned. "My grandbaby."

"Oh. I had not realized," Severus said. "If yourself or any of the other Elves wish to find a spouse, you have leave to do so."

"Melly be interested," Kimber said. "I let her know."

"Good," Severus said.

Kimber disappeared with a small 'pop'.

Severus went out to Muggle London to find a stationers. He wanted a plan book and calendar, to be able to keep up with the work he would be doing. He purchased three, two for him to experiment with and one he thought Lily might like. He'd give it to her on the train ride to Hogwarts.

He went to the Bank a bit before nine on Tuesday, assuming -- correctly -- that Lily would also be early.

"Is this okay?" Lily indicated the summer dress and flats she wore.

"It's lovely," Severus admitted.

"Snape!" the goblin called.

"That's us!" Severus said. They took hold of the rope held out to them and the portkey whirled away.

Severus stepped out of the portkey and caught Lily as she was about to stumble.

"You're so good at this!" she said.

"I've had some practice," Severus admitted without admitted to how much practice he really had in his previous life.

"Then I'll have to practice more!" she said cheerfully.

Rome was sunny and bright. "Oh," he said as they stepping into the hot sun. "Would you like a sunscreen charm?"

"Oh, yes!" Lily nodded.

He cast the charm on her and himself. They went out of the Bank and out of the area to Muggle Rome. "A taxi is easiest," he said.

The cab let them off at a restaurant that was within walking distance of the manor.

"This is lovely!" Lily exclaimed as they stood in front of the manor.

"It is," he said. "Come and meet my family."

Severus tapped at the door and Mocio answer. "Lord Prince! Welcome!" the Elf bobbed in glee. "Aunties wait for you in parlor."

"Mocio, this is my friend Lily Evans," Severus introduced them.

"Good to meet you, Mocio," Lily said.

"Miss Lily welcome to Rome!" the Elf said cheerfully.

They went back to the parlor where the two women waited.

"So glad you could come," Aunt Mathilde greeted them.

"Mathilde Prince, Raphaela Mancini, I would like to introduce my friend, Lily Evans," Severus performed the introductions.

"I am so pleased to meet you both," Lily dimpled.

"Aren't you sweet?" Mathilde cooed.

Lily blushed.

"Auntie, Lily has a boyfriend," Severus said firmly. "She is here only as a friend."

"Don't spoil an old lady's fun!" she chided.

"Matty, let the girl be," Raphaela said firmly. "Good to meet you, tesoro. And I'm Rafe."

"Thank you," Lily nodded. "Sev didn't get to tell me, how are you related?"

"My brother, Roland, was the previous Lord Prince and my brother," Mathilde said. "And Rafe is a... long-time friend."

"Well, I'm glad you have each other!" Lily said cheerfully.

"Technically, we are cousins, but my nephew Cipriano Fabrizzi also lives with us," Mathilde said. "He's planning on joining us for lunch."

"That is good news," Severus said.

"Pri's Great-Grandmother and my father were siblings," Mathilde explained.

"I had to ask but it makes Pri and I fourth cousins once-removed," Severus explained. "But still family."

"It's good to have family!" Lily agreed.

They chatted about several topics. Raphaela took Lily on a small tour of the manor when she asked about a rest room.

"She is really only a friend?" Mathilde asked after they had left the room.

"She has a soul-mate," Severus nodded. "Who is definitely not me."

"Shame," Mathilde sighed. "She is delightful."

"And I am privileged to be her friend," Severus nodded.

Pri came rushing into the room. "Hope I'm not late," he said. "Had a client come in at the last minute and they wouldn't stop talking."

"You're fine," Mathilde assured him. "Rafe is showing Lily the house."

"Good to see you again, Severus," Pri said.

"Thought I'd check on you at least once more before school starts," Severus said.

"Oh, right, it is that time of year," Pri nodded.

"And all of you are to let me know if you need anything," Severus said. "I know Mocio takes good care of you but don't hesitate to reach out."

"We will!" Mathilde promised.

Lunch was a flavorful lemon and shrimp pasta which Lily adored. "I've never had something like this," she said.

"We can send you the recipe," Mathilde offered.

"Oh. Well, I'm not so good at cooking," she admitted.

"Then it's a good recipe to try," Mathilde assured her. "You can't make it too wrong."

"Good to know, she laughed.

Pri had to hurry back to work but Severus and Lily stayed for a while longer.

"I promised Lily a visit to the bookstore in the magical district," Severus said. "We can't dally because we have a portkey scheduled to take us back."

"That is just cruel, young man!" Raphaela teased. "Taking a young woman into a bookstore and limiting her time there!"

"Oh, no!" Lily laughed. "It's a good thing. I need a limit or I'd be there for days."

At the end of the day, Severus escorted Lily home on the Tube.

"Thank you," Lily said. "I had fun."

"Something I suspect we can discuss with the Family Magic tutor, checking on the Aunties reassures the Prince Family magic that everyone is taken care of," Severus said.

"That is interesting," Lily nodded.

Severus saw Petunia staring at them from the bedroom window. Something else he had not considered...

"I know Petunia has not been invited to Hogwarts but has she ever been checked out by a Healer?" He considered. "In fact, have you?"

Lily shook her head. "Never."

"Let me reach out to my Healer and see if she might take you both on or if she could recommend someone," Severus said. "I told you about my core block and I'm wondering how something like that might affect someone like Petunia."

"Oh, that would be horrid!" Lily exclaimed. "Why would someone do something like that?"

Severus thought about young Harry Potter who had lived with a decidedly unhappy Petunia Dursley. That particular future should not happen again but he wondered if Petunia had been compromised in any way.

"I will talk to my account manager and see what he suggests, also," Severus said.

"Thank you!" Lily said.

"Thank you for going with me," Severus said.

The next day, Severus went to Spinner's End to meet his mother.

"Where would you like to go?" Severus said. "I have been exploring several cuisines and am open to anything."

"Your Da only likes meat and potatoes," she admitted. "So... something else?"

"I know exactly the place," Severus said.

Eileen came slightly out of her shell when Maria took over their lunch. Severus wondered if Maria had a touch of magic, always being there when he came in and knowing what meals would be appropriate.

Lunch was amicable. Severus reported that the family in Italy was doing well.

"I'm sorry I cannot take you there," Severus said. "I need to learn more about the boundaries there are on the Family Magic before I try something that will not work properly."

"It is good to know you have some contact with them," Eileen said. "And you look even better than you did earlier in the summer."

"I have had a magical maturation and my Healer thinks I may have another but not for a few years," Severus replied.

"That is... amazing," Eileen said.

"I will write to you during the school year but you should not hesitate to let me know if you need anything," Severus said when they were back at the house.

"I should be taking care of you." Eileen looked down at the ground.

"Think of it as taking care of each other," Severus said gently. He had remembered to be prepared this time and had an envelope of money for her. "This is to help you stay well, and safe."

She reluctantly took the envelope. "I did not do well by you."

"You did what you had to," Severus said. "I will see you at Yule."

Unexpectedly, she hugged him briefly before releasing him and going into the house.

It was good to see Minerva and she gave him more reading about the animagus transformation. She did promise to meet with him regularly during the school year, which Severus appreciated.

"I should have said something," Severus started hesitantly. "But with my Lordship comes a personal House Elf, who will come to Hogwarts with me."

Minerva nodded. "Since the Elf is bonded to you, that is not a problem. The castle will take note of that when he arrives and make a space for him in your room. Since you will be arriving on a Saturday, on Sunday, take your Elf to the kitchens," she peered over her glasses. "You do know where they are?"

Severus nodded.

"Introduce your Elf to the Hogwarts Elves, and you should be all set," Minerva went on. "I've never known Elves to not get along but make sure your Elf only takes care of you and not other students."

"That will make it easier in the dorms, if I know helping others is not permitted," Severus replied, thinking of some of his more entitled classmates.

"You may want to let Professor Slughorn know, as your Head of House," she added. "He can also help enforce the rules."

"My Elf is young, but I will make it clear that he is not required to obey any other student," Severus said. "Thank you for your help."

Severus had been at the Bank on the day before he needed to be at Charing Cross for the Hogwarts Express. He came back to the apartment to find Zirnitra sitting in his kitchen again and Spot staring wide-eyed at the god.

"You have a good companion there," Zirnitra said.

"He is," Severus nodded.

"Just wanted to stop by and tell you that you've done an excellent job here," Zirnitra said. "You've helped to stop Dumbledore, and you've spiked Tom Riddle's plans."

"They haven't found Riddle yet," Severus said.

Zirnitra shrugged. "He's finding it harder to get followers and his funds have largely dried up. It's only a matter of time before someone turns him in for the reward," he said.

"Where did Dumbledore go?" Severus asked. That had been a topic of discussion in the Daily Prophet for days.

"He's holed up somewhere," Zirnitra said airily. "But, if you ever have to fight him, be decisive and give no quarter. It would be helpful to get that wand away from him and it will take someone unexpected to do that."

"Me? You want me to battle Dumbledore?" Severus was aghast.

"If it comes to it, you can do it!" Zirnitra nodded. "Have faith in yourself."

Severus blinked. "Okay. If I have to."

Zirnitra nodded. "I may or may not be around," he said. "But keep up the good work."

"I will," Severus nodded.

Zirnitra squatted down to Spot. "You're doing a good job, little one. Thank you for watching over him." He lay a hand on Spot's head and then disappeared.

"Master Severus!" Spot said, awed.

"Meh. You get used to it," Severus said. "I suspect he'll be back at some point."

"But..."

"But we are the masters of our own fate," Severus said firmly. "So we will go on. School starts tomorrow. Are we ready?"

Spot seemed to shake himself for a moment. "We are!"

"Breakfast in the morning, then, and off to Hogwarts," Severus said cheerfully. Now, he could relax a bit and enjoy being a student.

He had a future to look forward to.