Learning of Worlds-Private - Printable Version

After his relentless discussion with Cornelius Fudge, Severus couldn't help but feel a weight off his shoulders. Even so, what was Cornelius going to do about the situation? Just like with any other Death Eater expedition, the Ministry had done very little. From their disbelief in believing the Dark Lord was back to plastering the headmaster as an old man, he couldn't help but distrust his word. Somehow it was always Severus meddling in their business, Dumbledore inquiring into Voldemort's troubles, or Potter taking the privilege into his own hands. It almost seemed damning. There was no end to their suffering, was there? Even the unheartful 'congratulations' made him feel uneasy. Snape had to hold in a disgruntled snort in retaliation.

What else had they not decided on yet? The thought mildly confused Severus. They had discussed everything for the most part. Potter was dealt with, Remus and Black were off dogging with each other, and everyone seemed as fine as they could be for now. Even so, he didn't want to acknowledge some subjects... Unfortunately, those concepts had to be eventually. It was that time.

His dark gaze moved down towards Ellie. Her fragile being laid still, vulnerable and alone. She had no one left, including the mother that abandoned her. He felt obliged to be by her side, as a member of her family and as a professor at Hogwarts. Nevertheless, something held him back.

There was no hope left in him. The Dark Arts had taken hold of his life, despite how much he despised it now. Sage was no longer his sister and Lily had never chose to lay with him, all due to him. There was no going back from his decision. He had no right to go back to his old self. Even if Ellie was in his life, she would suffer dearly. Darkness would encapsulate her being and takeover her innocent form. She'd be in inevitable danger every day. Severus couldn't watch that happen... Again. The deeply scarred man knew what he lost due to his actions and wouldn't be willing to repeat that again.

It would be a lie if he said he didn't consider it for a few milliseconds, but he knew he couldn't. With an almost emotionless expression, he stared back at Cornelius. "I cannot," Severus coldly responded. Dearly he knew he'd be putting everyone involved in Dumbledore's scheme at risk. He couldn't allow it.

Yet sometimes all it takes is one person.