The Legacy of the Dark Lord

By M.M.G.C

Word had spread through the school that Dumbledore was planning a spectacular feast but that he would not say why. Professor McGonagall had been called upon to magic all the decorations and the menu for dinner. She had no idea what the feast was to be for either.

Most of that day, I hid out in my dormitory room packing for my leave. As usual on Saturdays, there was not a single soul roving about the rooms. Everyone prefers to be outside, whether in rain or shine.

After I finished packing, I played with different spells. I busied myself using “Accio” to pick lilies from the edge of the lake. I neatly transfigured the Giant Squid into a magnificent but rather large dolphin that spouted hearts and roses through its blowhole.

When Hermione entered the room just before the Mystery Feast, she nearly fell to the floor. The entire room was laden with hearts and flowers of all kinds.

“Michele?” she asked as if not believing what I had done to the room. “Are you in love?” she questioned. If she could not believe her eyes, then would she believe her ears?

“Who? Me? In love, you ask. Whatever would make you say that?” I said coyly.

“Alright! Out with it! Who is this mystery interest? You can tell me!” she prodded.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” I said. Flicking the tip of my wand lazily at the room, I watched everything change back to normal.

She had not noticed that my trunk was packed and ready to leave. If she had, she may have hypothesized the reason for my hasty departure being a part of the Mystery Feast. As such, though, she did not.

“Well, we’d better get on to the Great Hall—we do need to see what all this mystery is about, don’t we?”

“Uh, yes, I suppose we do,” she said following me out.

When we entered the Great Hall, Hermione shrieked. It had been decorated in rich silks of all colors. There were gorgeous flowers in vases and laying helter-skelter on all the house tables. Pristine white doves flew freely about the enchanted ceiling, which glistened with the gentle hues of dusk. The atmosphere became very excited indeed!

Hermione ran to the Gryffindor table without turning. She yelled emphatically at Harry and Ron, who had already taken their seats.

I looked to the Head table. Dumbledore sat in the midst of gold-rimmed champagne glasses, dressed appropriately in white silk with golden robes. He waved me to the seat to the right of him after I caught his eye.

I smiled when I saw Severus there already. He sat to the left of Dumbledore. He was utterly bewitching to behold—his raven black hair sparkled in the fading light from above, his eyes danced with the flickering of candlelight, and his usual sneer retreated to a genteel smile that emblazoned his subtle features.

All eyes were now upon me. I could feel the cool, curious stares from all the house tables, especially from Draco, Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Harry and Ron appeared confounded. Draco merely crossed his arms and scowled maliciously. Hermione seemed stricken as if she had just seen a viper in her pumpkin juice.

Upon reaching my chair at the Head table, I paused as Dumbledore stood up. “You loodiandiant, Miss Knight!” he said, winking knowingly at me. I smiled politely and sat down.

Turning to the rest of the waiting school, Dumbledore held his hands up to signify silence. “I will assume that everyone here is anxious to hear of the recent events, which contribute to the feast laid out before you tonight,” he said. “Therefore, I will end all your curiosities in a brief moment. As you well know, Professor Snape has been with us for fifteen marvelous years,” he began. The silence rang out through the Hall at the mention of Professor Snape. “Recently, he has asked me about taking an early retirement from the position of Potions Master at Hogwarts.”

Stunned murmurs shot through the room in hushed tones and then fell just as sharply, waiting impatiently for Dumbledore to continue. Dumbledore now had everyone rapt with attention. “I have, indeed, granted him what he has requested. So therefore, it is with great sadness that I say Professor Snape will no longer be teaching at Hogwarts.”

Whispers echoed through the Great Hall. Not one person remained silent. A patient Dumbledore waited for the noise to die-down again.

“Furthermore, we have a student from the Americas with whom you have all noticed by now, I am sure. Her name is Miss Michele Knight. She has fully completed her studies in the schools in America and is here for the purpose of diplomatic education by the request of our Ministry of Magic. I would like to congratulate her on her motivation to take the O.W.L exams this year and wish her luck.” There was a slight applause.

“And finally, it is my privilege to announce one more item that is thasonason you are all here today. It gives me great pleasure to announce the engagement of Professor Severus Snape and Miss Michele Knight.”

The Hall sprung alive with an eruption of shock. Most mouths gaped with a mixture of shock and fear. None of them had any idea what was happening except for one—Malfoy! Malfoy had an odd look of satisfaction and wonder. He seemed almost amused.

Dumbledore beckoned us both to stand in the spot where he stood for his speech. We each took our glasses happily and entwined the arms that held them. Severus’ free hand grasped mine, showing the bejeweled engagement ring. Between us the glasses filled magically with bubbly champagne while the rest of the school had pumpkin juice. I looked into his dark, dancing eyes and smiled. He smiled back proudly.

“Please stand. I wish to toast to the happy couple,” said Dumbledore merrily. “It is a rare thing, indeed, to see two people entwined so deeply in the magic of love, that they are both willing to sacrifice their lives for the other. However rare that may be, I have been graced with a glimpse of such profound sacrifice that it needs mention here. Miss Knight risked her life for her love of Severus. Severus, in turn, risked his life in order to save hers. This is the finest example of pure magic as I could give you all. It is the love of someone so completely that no mortal ties could tether it. May they always delight in each other’s company and have many exceptional years together as husband and wife.”

Applause rang out through the entire school. Dumbledore winked at Severus. Severus took the cue, bent down, and kissed me. There was still more shock and applause. Apparently, no one knew what to think yet. We drank our champagne whist still with woven arms.

“Now,” continued Dumbledore. “I should hope that each of you in turn, would give your fondest wishes to the both of them during the course of the evening. Ah, but here is the feast…”

The plates were filled with delectable foods of every persuasion. Some dug in and others still stared in awe. While there were others yet, that shared dumbfounded whispers about the speech.

As we both turned to sit, I brought out my pendant for all to admire. Severus had done the same. Dumbledore gave his seat to Severus, in honor of the occasion, so that Severus could sit next to me for dinner. We no longer must be separated.

Professor McGonagall, whom was sitting on the other side of me, turned immediately to me. She raised her eyebrows and whispered to me. “I would never have known, Miss Knight. You have been very discrete. It is rather fortunate that you are a diplomatic representative, isn’t it? I surely would never have thought, of all people… You and Severus? I would have more likely thought to see you with Harry, but I am surprised.”

“Well, Professor, we are very happy. I would not have had it any other way—no matter what the cost. It is a special relationship to me. Severus… is everything I have longed for and although I am sure how it may seem, it just happened and there was nothing more to be done about it. It was time that we both sought our own happiness over anyone else’s,” I defended.

“Oh, Miss Knight! I did not mean to insult you—I am just still in a bit of a state! I have never, in all our years of teaching together, seen Severus so… elated! My dear, you have made him a man of twenty years younger in the span of less than a year!”

“Thank you, Professor. I am sorry to have had to keep these matters from you, however—there had been the need of severe secrecy and I would not have changed a thing!”

“I do understand. I just don’t know what to think of it. I never saw any inclination… Usually I am most perceptive to subtle changes in person. Perhaps I was rather more concerned about Harry. He is a rather troubled child if ever I had seen one! Anyhow, I am delighted to hear of your engagement and wish you both the supreme happiness of which you are both due. Congratulations, dear!” she exclaimed with tears in her eyes.

I gave her a reassuring hug and turned to Severus. He lifted one eyebrow in amusement and continued to smile at me. Professor McGonagall excused herself and left the table for a while.

Professor Lupin appeared in front of the table. He smiled in nearly a sneer. Severus, however, threw him his warmest smile and took my hand in his.

“Well, well, well! Severus has found himself a Lady! I never thought I would live to see the day… Of course, Miss Knight, I wish you luck but I am rather curious at how this came about. I mean, you didn’t know each other before Hogwarts, right?”

I tapped Severus’ hand gently, and shook my head. “Allow me, dear,” I said, rounding on Professor Lupin. “Severus and I are happy to hear of your fond wishes. We do hope that at some point, you are able to feel with another as we feel about each other. Now, we are a bit busy celebrating. We will talk about this later, I’m sure,” I said hissing.

“Yes… Congratulations Severus, she is perfect for you. I could not have dreamt of a more perfect union.” With that, Professor Lupin walked off.

Severus slung his arm aroun sho shoulder proudly. He had obviously been impressed with my “subtle diplomacy”. We both smiled, mildly amused.

Hermione walked up to the table next. I took a sip of champagne and waited for her to speak. Severus did the same.

“Michele!” she shrieked. “I am totally shocked! I would never… I could not have imagined in a million years! And Professor… urm… Mr. Snape? I never thought… I didn’t have any idea!”

“I’m touched, Miss Granger, but are you going to say something or just stand there in shock?” he snarled.

I gave him a stern look. “Now, Severus, you must understand Miss Granger’s shock. After all, she had no idea and yet, she slept in the next bed over from me. A little patience, I think, would be in order...,” I prodded.

“Sorry dear,” he said sincerely. “I know Miss Granger is far too upset at the thought of losing her friend right now, to make much sense of the matter.” He smiled at her indulgently. She very nearly fainted from what I could tell.

“But how did you see each other? I never saw any hint of anything. But wait—show me your left hands! I must see for myself…”

We turned our left hands over, revealing the faint scars identically matching the other. Her face turned sheet-white with horror.

“You took the Blood Oath? It wasn’t a cauldron burn or a cut from the desk! My stars! You are in love!” As she glanced up at us, she noticed the pendants too. “And the H’tao Doolb! The Blood Oath pendants… that was how you did it without anyone knowing! You were magically bonded by the pendants.”

At her mention of the pendants, we both made the identical movements to grab our own pendants. She appeared to be very afraid as she watched us move together.

“Well, congratulations!” she said awkwardly taking in the picture of the two of us together.

I touched her hand, assuring her. “We love each other, Hermione. No funny business! We just do! I realize it will take some time to sink in but I can assure you there is nothing more to it!” I said to her.

“And Miss Granger? You are, of course, invited to the wedding, if you so choose to go. We would be delighted to see you there!” he said with sincerity and a smile.

“Are you certain?” Hermione asked Severus.

“Quite. I don’t think either of us would be able to stand it if you weren’t going to be there,” he answered happily.

Hermione blushed. I don’t think she could have answered if she wanted to. Her eyes were still very wide, but she managed to speak after about a minute. “Thank you. It is nice to see you both smiling for a change. I wish you both happiness. Urgh… Will I see you in classes, Michele? Are you staying at Hogwarts still?”

“I will be staying with Severus from now on but I will still be attending classes. It’s part of the Diplomatic Decree, you see. I am a full-fledged witch already so I am allowed to stay off-premises, if I wish to do so. We will still have many days together, though, Hermione. Don’t worry—you haven’t gotten rid of me yet!” I chuckled despite myself. Severus eyed us both curiously and smiled again.

I could not get over how happy he was now. I had never seen him smile at anything except of course, for myself.

“I will see you later, Hermione,” I said before she answered. She turned and walked off slowly, still collecting her thoughts.

Draco Malfoy stepped up to the table. He smiled cordially at Severus and I. Offering his hand to Severus, they shook politely.

“Dear cousin! I never would have thought you would be married. A Professor and that—I’m sure the family will be quite proud!” he said matter-of-factly. “Father was quite certain that you two would end up together. He has quite a knack for finding out useful information. In addition, Professor Snape—I would like to formally welcome you to the family. I am sure you will fit in quite nicely. Have you met her mum and pop yet? They are really nice. I am sure I will be seeing you at the wedding.” Draco smiled knowingly. “Isn’t it rather odd, though? A Professor marrying his student? It would seem to be a little fishy, wouldn’t it?”

“Oh dear, cousin Draco,” I purred indulgently. “I do think you are stepping out of line, are you not? I would hate it for my dear mum and pop to have to hear how terribly you are treating your family. I daresay, your father would not agree either. We will see youthe the wedding, then? Fine but you must behave or you don’t know where the door to the bathroom might end up actually taking you.” I sneered at him defiantly.

“Then I shall think twice about what present I do bestow the happy couple… Congratulations, and I will see you later. I promise.” He turned back to the table, laughing.

I smiled sweetly at Severus. He thought to me, “Your family sounds quite… impressive. I am hoping you fill me in with every detail later.” His eyebrows rose questioningly. I gave him a soft peck on his cheek and whispered, “Don’t worry—they will like you. Draco has always been jealous…”

“Ah, Mr. Potter! I wondered if I would be seeing you tonight…” Severus leered. Severus stuck out his hand to shake Harry’s hand. Harry hesitated, looking to me and then back again.

“He n’t n’t bite much, Harry,” I jested.

Harry shook Severus’ hand and smiled at me.

“I don’t know what to say. I am shocked. Congratulations, Professor. She will make you very happy, I am sure. I have never seen you smile, Professor. It seems she brings out the best in you,” Harry tried.

“Thank you, Harry. There are many more waiting for us as long as we are alive. I daresay I may never stop smiling, Harry. However, I do thank you for your kind words. Let us hope the fences continue to mend between us.” He smiled thoughtfully.

Harry turned his head to the side, not knowing what to say and wondering if he had just heard what he thought he heard. “That is very kind, Professor. I hope so too.” He squinted his eyes in confusion, turning to me.

“I can’t even begin to imagine what you must have done to him but whatever it is, make sure you keep doing it. It seems to bring out the best in him,” he grinned teasingly.

“I’m sorry, Harry. You know, I think some day you may just understand what it feels like to be in love. I hope it is as unforgettably passionate as Severus and I have,” I said lightly. But thank you. I will see you still—I am still tending to my classes.”

Hagrid walked up to us as Harry left. He tapped at the corners of his eyes as he approached. “Bless me,” he said sobbing. “I’d have never thought it possible… Professor Snape in love and getting married and smilin’ nonetheless! It ought to be criminal to look so darned happy! Blimey! And Michele—stealing away our dear Professor right out from underneath us like that, why I nearly fell outta my chair!” He turned to Severus, laying a hand on the side of his mouth to talk secretly. “Quite a fine choice, Professor. You ought to be a very happy man, if ya’ know what I mean!”

“Yes, Hagrid,” Severus stated patiently. “I had thought that quite a few times myself. Thank you, Hagrid,” he said politely nodding his head.

“You watch this one here, Michele! He ‘s a wild one, he is! Ah but you probably already know that, eh?” he said with a blush. “The two of ya’ should have a good ole’ fashioned Hogwarts wedding! Why, I’m sure Dumbledore would be happy ta’ do that fer the both of ya’! He’s grown quite fond of both of ya’ like a grandfather, he is! Ah, well, congratulations then!” he said with a wink.

“Thank you, Hagrid,” I said.

Dumbledore had come up around behind us as we spoke with Hagrid. “Alas, I believe it is time that you both have a bit of time alone before we say goodbye…” He turned to the school once again. “We shall have a farewell dance for our Hogwarts couple before we bid them a fond farewell! Severus? Michele? Would you be so kind as to start the first dance?”

A haughtily passionate grin spread across his face. He was enjoying every moment of this. Pulling out my chair for me to stand, he laid his hand across his lapel and bowed to me. I drew my wand and drew it down the front of my robes. As it descended, the tip shot sparkles and changed my wardrobe to that of a shocking black formal ball gown.

“After you, my mistress!” he said. With his left hand, he dramatically produced a large circle with his wand and then a much smaller one. When his arm fully stretched, leading the way for me, red sparks shot out of the tip and pushed the tables aside. A spotlight of red appeared just in front of the head table and the rest of the lights fell dim. The entire school seemed to gasp in awe at the same time.

With his right hand, he held my fingertips and led me to the spotlight. Lengths of our cloaks flew out behind us elegantly as we walked together in front of the whole school. We danced to the slow melody that Dumbledore had chosen. Severus’ arm poised at my waistline, the other mirrored my hand, tightly held clutching his shoulder. We glided to the music, almost unaware of anyone else around us. It was so smooth and natural that I did not think twice about my steps. My forehead pressed against his, gazing longingly into his black eyes.

As the music very nearly ended, he whispered in my ear, “Are you ready to fly?”

“Yes, I think so…,” I said.

We stopped dancing for a moment. He looked deeply into my eyes. Brandishing his wand once more, he hovered it over our heads and created large circles around both of us. Glittering white sparkles filled the air below it and with a white fog, there was a “crack”. Instantaneously, we transformed. Severus became a large black raven and I became a snowy white dove. We literally flew off together through the enchanted ceiling and out a window. We could hear the “oohs” and “ahhs” from the school below. They were clapping wildly.

It was now very dark outside. The grounds were empty and the sky glistened with stars. Like a thick cloak above the shadowy castle, it blanketed the world in its soft velvet.

We flew around and around each other, cooing almost inaudibly in the wind. In the windows of the Great Hall, we were watched by most of the school. As we glided and swooped around each other, our wings shed sparkling white powder that looked like twinkling fairy dust. Onward they gazed at us in awe until we disappeared in the darkness.

I followed Severus the raven to the open window of my dormitory room. There I perched on my trunk, looking at him intently. He flapped his wings together upright in mid-air until they joined at the tips. With a flash of red light, he returned to the form of Severus, poised patiently on his broom.
“Alright now!” he said to me.

I nodded as the white dove. Then I proceeded to flap my wings in front of him, joining them at the tips, as he had just done. My arms sprouted from the wings and I stood in the midst of a sudden onslaught of on-lookers which must have just glimpsed my transformation back to my white ball gown.

Hermione had just appeared at the door with our other dormitory mates. Behind her appeared Dumbledore. He had apparently expected this because ordinarily boys were not allowed in the girls’ dormitories.

Dumbledore grinned from ear to ear and clapped. “Excellent show, Severus! Outstanding, Michele!” he said, looking at Severus hovering just outside the window. “I suppose you two will be off now? Good luck then, and keep in touch! Love suits you, Severus! I have never seen it worn so well!”

“Accio broom,” I called, tapping my wand in the air. The broom raced at me above everyone’s heads. I sat down on the broom, leaving my legs elegantly swept to one side. “Mobilarbus trunk,” I said, pointing now to the trunk. The trunk hovered at my side.

“Bye , Hermione! I’ll be seeing you Monday!” I called, as I joined Severus in the window. She beamed at me and waved enthusiastically.

“Now, don’t have too much fun!” she cried with mild jealousy.

My broom swung around to face Severus. “Shall we?” he asked considerately while scooping my waist firmly with one arm. Again, the scent of hot spice seared my senses, and his hair smelled of sweet nectarines. Our cheeks merged. His chin settled on my shoulder. His broom hovered docilely an inch away from mine.

“Will you accompany me to our new home, my mistress?” he breathed into my ear. Moving his hand to rest in my lap, we tapped the brooms forward flying off into the night.

End Scene Five