"The feelings that hurt most, the emotions that sting most, are those that are absurd - The longing for impossible things, precisely because they are impossible; nostalgia for what never was; the desire for what could have been; regret over not being someone else; dissatisfaction with the world's existence. All these half-tones of the soul's consciousness create in us a painful landscape, an eternal sunset of what we are."

- Fernando Pessoa

The day before the trial was a little more relaxed, and less hectic than the days leading up to it.

Well, as far as planning for the mission went.

And yet, the inhabitants at Grimmauld Place were solemn and lost in their own deep thoughts. Not many were keen to speak, as disturbing the silence seemed like a sin. Everyone seemed to tread cautiously with each other, as each was aware of how heavy their minds were at that point in time. If anything, Severus did appreciate the silence.

The older Slytherin had spent all night shivering uncontrollably, despite the roaring fireplace and the layers of clothing he wore, with an additional blanket for good measure. But neither of those things could warm him enough to get a decent night's rest. Therefore, he awoke feeling incredibly grumpy and snappy due to the restless night. To add to that, the pain he suffered throughout his body was getting far more intense. Even his analgesic potions were losing potency and were unable to last as long as they should have. Either the curse ravaging him has decided to finally repel it, or his own body was developing a resistance to them. Either way, he was getting desperate for some sort of reprieve or at least a mild relief. The pain itself wasn't even localised to his neck wound anymore – it was radiating throughout his entire body in waves. It felt like someone was sticking red hot needles into his skin all over his compromised body, causing unbearable jolts of pain. At times, Severus had to bite down on his blanket just to muffle the sound of his blinding agony, and he could only hope that neither Harry nor Draco could hear a thing.

Draco himself spent the majority of the day in the potion's lab, stocking up on supplies for Severus and emergency stocks for the mission. It seemed to be the one task that kept Draco occupied and re-focused his mind other than his unfortunate predicament hiding out at Order headquarters with himself and Harry Potter. Severus was rather entertained by this because he was in the same agitated mindset and predicament a few months ago. He understood the trapped Slytherin being forced to hide away in the house of Black – family outcasts to his own mother and deranged, twisted aunt – whilst under the protection of the Chosen One himself. Severus used to feel the same way, but now, it really was not as terrible as initially predicted. He grew used to it and had no choice but to accept it.

He had far more important things to waste his energy worrying over.

Severus was sitting on the single sofa by the fire, in which he barely managed to move to on his own, with a large tome opened across his lap – Unlocking Hidden Potential: Masking and Shielding the Mind. He was hunched over, with his cloak wrapped around him like a cocoon, with an added blanket across his legs. His body was growing wearier, and losing body fat and muscle, almost disappearing amongst the materials draped around him. His lengthy, messy, lightly greasy hair hung unkempt around his face, casting shadows over his gaunt, greyish face. He would better blend in with an Inferius if he encountered one now.

He was well-engrossed in the book he was reading, in hopes to give him further mental clarity. Since the curse took hold of him, his mental fortifications have since been damaged and he has been unable to keep his strength in Occlumency up as he previously could. During the War, he had utilised it every day and so frequently with ease, that it was almost like breathing. He didn't have to think too hard about it. Now with the Dark Lord gone, there has not been a need to keep that up. It took him a while to slowly drop those magical shields, but it was out of habit that he kept them erected in the first place. But now, it was not a mask he needed to wear anymore, which both frightened him and gave him a measure of relief. To expose your mind again, after keeping your thoughts and feelings locked up like a caged animal for decades, was frightening. Now his mind seemed so raw and unhinged, and sometimes his mind did not feel like his own. Emotions he thought were long controlled, sprang to the surface so quickly now, that he barely had the energy to enforce his Occlumency to keep them at bay. These days, he didn't have the strength for it now due to the curse taking hold of every part of him, so he learned to deal with the emotional onslaught as it happens. Even though he still couldn't control them anymore, and that itself, made him feel pathetically weak.

He'd give anything to shut those terrible thoughts and feelings away again. They were far too painful to deal with.

He never intended to use Occlumency during the trial – He wasn't going to waste the energy. The truth will come to light with the Ministry, sooner or later. Even if they have to force Veritaserum down his throat to do it. Yet even under Minister Shacklebolt's reign, the Council will not be forgiving. He had an opportunity now to do the right thing, and he wasn't about to attempt to cheat the trial.

Granger had hesitantly approached Severus earlier that day in the sitting room, in hopes to gain further insight into the cloaking spell suggested by Harry. She walked in rather feebly as if she were about to be reprimanded upon walking through the door. He himself used to relish in that attitude because it made him feel superior, and above them all. Now since relinquishing his duties as a Professor and seeing the War's end, he began to feel differently about it. As cold as he was teaching his Potions and Defence classes, the thought of his own behavior towards them, troubled him more than he ever anticipated. Granted, he still had to interact with those students he used to enjoy tormenting, but now, even he eventually developed a sliver of compassion for what the students had to endure in times of War. Safe to say, the students have well and truly grown up, and that pleased Severus more than he'd ever thought. They were adults now. Severus now saw them differently, much as Harry viewed him differently after viewing his own tainted memories.

Perspectives change after hardships, especially that of the brutality of war. Severus had to allow himself to give them some sort of leniency, as he knew firsthand how much war can change a teenager. After all, he had to deal with the First War in his youth when he was not much older than they were.

"…Sir?"

Severus did not look up from his book, "Yes, Miss Granger?"

"Well, I uh, wanted to ask you…Hoping that maybe…if you could – "

" - To the point."

Granger stumbled over her words, seemingly nervous. Slowly, she made her way slowly over to the empty seat across from him, "Yes, sorry. I meant to ask…If you could teach me the cloaking spell…sir? I know your magic is not a hundred percent, but if there was a way, I'd like to learn it…For mission purposes."

Severus looked up from his book, and tilted his head towards Granger, "You are correct, as my magic is unpredictable and regrettably, not at full strength. Draco Malfoy would be my next suggestion – He'll instruct you. It is extraordinarily complex."

She appeared a little deflated, "…Oh."

"I cannot teach you that spell without magic, so it is pointless if I were to try and show it to you. If Draco refuses, I will talk to him myself."

"Right, of course, " Granger looked down her hands, nervously.

Severus sighed tiredly, "Is there something else?"

"I wanted to ask - " She looked up at him, looking rather fretted, " – What are your thoughts on phase three?"

Severus gave a slight pause. He did his best to push away that impending event within his mind because it was far too much to worry about above everything else. He really wasn't pleased with the reminder, however, "I'm not overly thrilled about it if you so desire an answer."

Granger paused, looking rather disheartened in mood, "I'm sorry, I don't mean to pry, sir. It's just, well…Everyone is anxious about it, and I've never seen Harry so…on edge. He's trying not to let that get to him, but…I can tell it's affecting him more than he'll ever admit to me."

Severus softened his gaze, eyeing the Gryffindor curiously until he lowered his voice to speak, "There is nothing more that I can do. It is out of my hands. In all brutal honesty, I do not believe the curse will allow me to live…Just a hunch."

"But – " Granger glanced with hopeful eyes at the man before her, " – Harry is trying his best to remain optimistic."

"I'm sure he'll manage."

Granger sat up straight in her seat, shaking her head, "No, you don't understand…This would crush him."

Severus' dark eyes flickered to Granger, who he noticed was clasping her hands tightly together, not being able to sit still, "I cannot alter the decision of the ritualistic process. Its psychological implications will secure the decision. I am just not confident it will sway in my favor. It's hardly my choice."

"It can be your choice, sir. If you can will it, you can sway the decision, " Granger was almost pleading now. She appeared mildly distraught, and he knew very well that she was deeply worried, which seemed to cause him to hesitate upon her strange demeanor. He had never really seen her like this.

Severus curled his lip, "It will not obey me on a single wish, Miss Granger. Listen, this isn't some childhood fairytale. I believe that this ritual will destroy me on the night of the full moon. Completely. That is my educated and realistic guess if I so fail this…test. I simply do not know what else it wants from me."

Granger's mouth dropped open, "Wait, on that night?"

Severus merely shrugged, "Well you can hardly consider the ritual giving me further mercy to live a little longer?"

Granger looked down at her hands, forcing herself to look away from the older Slytherin before her. Severus could tell she was incredibly bothered by this. It was true – Harry didn't know or even considered grasping that possibility. Severus had given himself a fatal ultimatum in the time he has left on this Earth, and he was adamant that Harry was not to know. It was also true that Severus himself wasn't all that confident for Phase Three – It just made sense that on that night, if that ritual deems him unworthy, that his death would be final on that very night. He had a little over a week to deal with that, but he did not want Harry to be aware of it. As much as he resented Harry for so many years, he knew that would hurt him now – He couldn't bear to do that do him.

He knew Granger had an inkling of what might happen, as he predicted, but she sought confirmation with him instead. There really wasn't much else he could do but spend the rest of his days thinking about it whilst everyone wandered around him in blissful ignorance, thinking on the notion that he would survive, and all would be well. Draco would be devastated and completely torn. Severus may not even live long enough to see the others rescued.

Severus was admittedly scared, and Harry seemed to annoyingly sense it. Even Draco, for that matter. What chance would a higher power give Severus for all the suffering he has caused? He knew death to be his fate in the end, even if he was given a second chance to at least tie up loose ends and make amends with Harry. There was still much he felt the boy needed to know, but he couldn't bring himself to tell him. Why was talking about things so personal, felt like such great effort? It was difficult. Severus already struggled in that respect – He wrote a letter to Harry, instead of having the courage to tell him in person, for the love of Merlin.

Granger was still in shock, and noticeably tearful, "I'm-I'm so sorry, sir."

Severus threw a hand up dismissively, "One day at a time, Miss Granger. Now – Go approach Draco. No time to waste."

"…Alright, " Granger stood up and glanced sadly at Severus before she turned to make her way downstairs. But as she stopped at the doorway, she turned on her heel to face the ill-stricken man again, "Sir…If there is anything you'd like me to do on your behalf…"

Severus' gaze lingered upon his pause, in his attempt to formulate the right words. He frowned slightly. He had never really given it that much thought, "I will, perhaps…consider it. Also, do not disclose this conversation to anyone. Not even Harry, " He spoke firmly, but quietly towards the Gryffindor, as if not to disturb anyone else within the old, rickety house. "…Please."

Granger appeared dismal and she nodded wordlessly in response. She hesitated once again but finally decided to depart leaving Severus alone to his thoughts once more.

Once the teenager departed, Severus' eyes suddenly darted to the Dark Mark half-hidden under the sleeve of his left forearm. Light cuts still visible from his ordeal during Phase Two. The self-inflicted marks were unable to heal, as the curse prevented any of his injuries from truly healing. He hated what he did. The angry red marks acted as a reminder of how much his own Dark Mark ruined his life upon one of the worst choices he had ever made. Severus would have never taken the Mark if he knew what he did now. If he knew how much devastation that would cause to him, and Lily. Her entire family forever affected by that one horrible decision.

With a look of disgust, he pulled his sleeve down further, not wanted to bear its sight again. Slowly closing the book he had no desire to read anymore, Severus sighed and rested his head back against the chair feeling a new wave of melancholy emotions, hanging over him like a thick, suffocating fog. He ran a shaky hand over his tired face. He didn't want to worry Harry – That is why being here was painful enough. But he rather it be a sudden death on that night, so it'll be easier on both of them.

Ideally.

Time, he was painfully running out of.

The morning of the trial felt in a state of disarray. Severus' own thoughts were scattered hopelessly, unsure of how the day was going to progress. A sense of dread washed over him, unable to bear with the idea of facing strangers in a courtroom looking to further condemn him for situations beyond his control. It would most likely be a busy courtroom – The Council of fifty strangers. Along with the Minister, who needed to remain unbiased. Harry Potter and his Gryffindor entourage, of course. Minerva, definitely – Oh, facing her there was humiliating enough. He would have much rather faced a room full of complete strangers, which would have at least put him at slight ease.

Sometimes he felt it would have been easier to have just fled and remained on the wanted list for the rest of his life, hidden away from the world from those who sought justice.

But there was no going back, now.

Severus had barely a wink of sleep, mainly due to the rising nausea of both his illness and the anxiety for the day ahead. He was awake far too early that morning, that it was still dark outside and not a sound could be heard in the Grimmauld household. Harry's friends had remained at headquarters so they could leave together, which Severus had protested the night before. Granger and the two Weasleys were adamant to remain, and there was no changing their mind. Begrudgingly, Severus went with it.

Overnight Severus had developed a fever, despite the constant shivers, and Draco had stayed with him that night within his own room trying to force down potions to ease his symptoms.

Harry tried to send up breakfast that morning for Severus so he could at least put some form of food into his stomach, but it was already twisting in knots from a combination of expelling stomach contents to dry retching for most of the night. Instead, he downed an extra-strength anti-nausea potion and hoped for the best. He had no appetite, and no matter how hard he tried to eat something, it would never stay down. He felt fatigued and weakened, but there was nothing else he could do. Granger's Nutri-potions could barely stay down anymore, in fact, he had developed a sensitivity to its smell recently, causing him to further become ill. Water, or tea, was all he could manage and the only things that would not rise back up.

So, he did his best to ingest whatever potions would help him further deal with the day ahead.

No one said much at all that morning, and Severus could sense the teenagers acting nervous and jittery around him. That wasn't exactly reassuring, but he could at least appreciate that neither one of them took this lightly. Hoping that his trial could run for a single day, he wasn't exactly looking forward to it potentially dragging out over several. This day would at least determine if he became a free man – somewhat – or at least cease the Aurors from coming after him and provide protection from the Death Eaters who do. But passing the judgment on good graces with the Council was not a task he was looking forward to. How much of his history were they wanting to pursue? He didn't want them going so far back, and he could only hope they would have taken Albus' previous statements upon his protection into account.

Just be thankful it is not the dimwit Minister Cornelius Fudge in charge of the hearing. He'd have me thrown into a cell sooner than you say 'Dementor'.

Granger and Draco had been revising the cloaking spell all morning, from their practice session the previous night. Despite Draco's protests and Severus' orders, he sat with Granger and taught her every detail and precise flicker of the spell. It was a series of incantations, with several complex wand movements, so if anyone could pick it up quickly, it was Hermione Granger. For once, he was relying on her sharp memory to remember the spell as time was working against them, and it was crucial that at least one of them besides Harry and Draco, could cloak themselves once they journey to the depths.

Severus decided to wear one of his more formal suites – It may very well be the last time he'd wear it. Lately, in the last several weeks, he would spend his days more casually and wearing loose layers as at times, his heavier clothing became too suffocating with the curse ravaging throughout his body. Despite his humiliation and fractured dignity, he'd wander around Grimmauld place with his suit jacket draped over him unbuttoned, with his white shirt underneath. Well, he would at least dress a little more decent and mindful to dress appropriately with the Weasley's and Granger. Only Harry and Draco were used to seeing the worst of Severus on his bad days, and it was simply causal acceptance to see Severus not caring about his ongoing haggard appearance. They cared not for him wandering around in pants and a blood-soaked shirt, with unkempt hair, and his traveling cloak wrapped around him so carelessly.

He was too exhausted to deal with the shame of it all, although, he was at least able to keep himself clean-shaven. That was a small victory.

Draco was wearing his favorite smart black suit, including his black shirt and tie, with his hair neatly combed away. Harry was dressed rather smartly, with a navy-colored formal blazer, and a grey shirt underneath. The Weasleys and Granger were also rather conscious of their appearance, and Severus was actually taken back a little by it. During the War, there was hardly a reason to dress so formally, so Severus was used to seeing all the students in battle-hardened casual wear, with rips and tears, blood, and mud-caked clothing. The neatened forms of the teenagers standing before him were a little more than a shock, but he appreciated their effort on his behalf, nonetheless.

Despite the fact that he really did not want them present, there was no stopping them.

The six of them traveled to the Ministry using an alternative entrance to bypass the main Atrium for those utilising the courts. Minister Kingsley had informed them of the security measures and did not want Severus Snape to be seen amongst the public. Severus was rather relieved by that, because the last thing he needed, was to witness all the cold stares and hushed voices in his direction. After all, some people still saw him as a murderer – the one who murdered Albus Dumbledore.

They reached a security desk where each of the teenagers presented and registered their wands as visitors. Severus, to his disappointment, was forced to relinquish his as a temporary measure. He handed over his ebony wand feeling automatically empty once it left his tremoring hands.

"Mr. Severus Snape – You will be escorted by two Aurors to the temporary cells to await the start of the hearing. Prior to entering the courtroom, you will be subjected to a brief medical assessment to evaluate your capabilities to withstand the trial itself, and for any medical emergencies that may arise, the staff will attend to you accordingly – " The silver-haired older wizard recited his statement towards Severus, with a husky voice enough to grate on his nerves, "As per protocol, you must be temporarily detained until further notice, therefore I must ask you to place your hands together behind your back so that the Aurors here can enforce it."

Severus' nodded in response, without speaking a single word. Oh, he so desperately wanted to protest but that would get him nowhere, so in this instance, it was safer to keep his forked tongue withheld. He clasped his hands together and placed them neatly in front of him, as one of the Aurors tapped his wrists with his wand. He felt a cool chain wrap around them several times, hearing the mild CLINK as it did so. Severus had to try and keep a cool expression to prevent himself from looking irritated.

"Good – " The wizard then turned to the teenagers, "As for you lot, you may proceed to the tenth floor and head straight to the Main Courtroom. You will await further instructions there."

Severus flickered his gaze towards Harry and acknowledged him with a single curt nod, the moment two Aurors stationed on either side of him, wrapping their hands around his forearms to shift him away. As Harry's worried expression disappeared from view, Severus was marched to a private elevator and sent down with his security escorts. There was a third Auror who trailed behind him, holding his wand safely contained within a glass box. Likely charmed for protection, but at least his own wand wasn't too far away.

As they reached the tenth floor, they walked in silence down the eerie, black-tiled corridor – which he recognised from Harry's memories during the ill-fated Occlumency lessons – until he was redirected through a door marked with a red medical plus-sign above a small St. Mungo's logo. They employed St. Mungo's staff to work within the Ministry itself, for both staff, visitors, and criminals alike. As per the agreement Harry proposed with the Chief Warlock, Severus was subjected to a general medical assessment, should anything go wrong. This was a part of the leniency that they considered, in light of his crimes and current medical situation. Well, it was not like he was faking his illness, as evident as the horrific grotesque wound plastered on the side of his neck, looking slightly more gruesome as the weeks went by.

He sat within the medical examination, reciting the rest of his past medical history as confirmation with Poppy Pomfrey's initial medical assessment so that there were no discrepancies. It was rather a quick examination, as he breezed through it as efficiently as possible with the two Healers present before him. As nine o'clock drew nearer, he was escorted out and marched towards the main courtroom.

By the door, there were two more Aurors stationed beside the entrance as Severus was walked through with his own two in tow on either side of him. He felt like an animal on display at a circus. He walked through the elaborate oak double-doors as much as his weakened legs could carry him, as he eyed the throne-like chair in the center of the circular room. Severus hated every bit of this, as he felt multiple pairs of eyes staring him down from all sections of the room. He tried to focus his gaze on the Minister's podium ahead, where Kingsley sat already waiting in his turquoise and plum robes. He knew Harry and his friends were seated somewhere, but he didn't dare to look. He didn't want to.

The two Aurors walked him towards the chair in the center and sat him down. One of them ushered a spell under their breath, and Severus' arms snapped outstretched to his side, as a white rope made of pure light pulled his wrist constraints outwards and connected to either side of his armrests. He allowed his arms to drop comfortably, but the magical bindings would not allow him further use. Severus clenched his jaw, as there was a shuffle of feet to the left of the podium, where dozens of Council members found their seats adorned in identical plum-colored robes and hats, with a small golden 'M' emblazed on their chest. At the front of the Council, he recognised Order member Elphias Doge, who appeared to have been promoted to Chief Wizengamot. He had an inkling as such, as he was previously Special Advisor of the Wizengamot. Beside him, was an elderly witch who Severus assumed was the new Senior Undersecretary to the Minister. He was thankful at least, that he didn't have to deal with the pink abomination known as Dolores Umbridge.

To Severus' right side and beside the Minister, was an elderly male judge, wearing all black robes, and a tall wizard hat. Below the podium, sat a Court Scribe who was waiting patiently with her quill and parchment, and beside her, was Percy Weasley. In the stands, he didn't dare to turn around to observe any potential familiar faces – He'd rather not look. However, he spotted a familiar set of golden locks matching a dark green ensemble, sitting within the stands towards Severus' right side, with her magical quill scribbling away…

…Oh, for the love of Merlin...

Severus couldn't help but curl his lips distastefully – It was Rita bloody Skeeter. He wanted nothing more than to rip that quill away from her and set it alight.

There was more shuffling around him as the amphitheater-like room was quickly filling up, which helped him to re-direct his seething gaze away from the wretched journalist. He knew there were people seated in the stands beside him, and even behind, but still, he did not dare to turn his head to find out. There were many people in the room now cramped together, and Severus had never felt more intimidated since facing the Dark Lord. There was a brief, suffocating silence, as the room suddenly grew still. Behind Severus' raven hair, he glanced upwards to face Minister Kingsley Shacklebolt upon his word to finally proceed. With a nod, Kingsley looked over at Elphias and exchanged glances.

The Judge seated on his own podium, cleared his throat, "Court is now in session. Please remain silent. Will the accused please state their full name, and date of birth?"

"Severus Tobias Snape. Born 9th January 1960, " Severus responded, in a timely fashion.

"Before we proceed, I will inform you that you will be subjected to Veritaserum during the course of the questioning. Is that understood, Mr. Snape?"

Severus nodded, "Yes."

"You have been brought here before the Wizard High Court so that we may pass judgment on you and face prosecution for crimes as a Death Eater, including murder, torture, espionage, and involvement in terrorism orchestrated by the now-deceased Tom Marvolo Riddle, self-proclaimed as Lord Voldemort in both the First and Second Wizarding War. Furthermore, we will oversee judgment over the death of Albus Dumbledore. However, in light of these upcoming statements, should you be sentenced, we will accept testimonies on your involvement in the Second War, and we will weigh your deeds accordingly. Do you accept these terms?"

"I accept."

"And should we require time to formulate a verdict, you are to remain detained until such a verdict is reached. Is that clear?"

…If I don't drop dead first.

"Yes."

Satisfied, the Judge turned to the Minister, "Anything you wish to add before we proceed?"

"Yes," Kingsley leaned forward, and watched Severus closely, "Mr. Severus Snape – We have records on file of Albus Dumbledore's statement in your defense in the First War, and thus, we will take that into consideration. However, some of our questionings will delve back into those events, despite your previous charges in which were made clear. You will be judged upon your actions in the Second War, and even events pertaining after to the downfall of Tom Marvolo Riddle. Do you accept?"

Not like I have a choice, do I?

"Yes, Minister. I accept."

"Good. Once you have been subjected to questioning via Veritaserum, we will invite any witnesses to come forth and present their statements in your defense. Do I make myself clear?"

"Crystal clear", Severus spoke, in a deadpan tone.

Just bloody get on with it.

"Very well. We may begin. Healer Frankston, you may proceed – " Elphias spoke, nodding to someone stationed just behind Severus, in which he could not see.

Severus heard movement and light-heeled steps behind him, until a middle-aged male wearing white Healer robes, approached him from his left. The man held a small vial of a clear liquid that Severus recognised so well. There was so much dread building up within him, he thought he was likely to become nauseated again. The twists and turns of his knotting stomach felt uncomfortable, but he did his best to hide all evidence of repulsion upon his face as he was approached as if he was about to be publicly lobotomized. Being so well-versed in Potioneering, Severus had the urge to yank the vial out of the man's grasp and study its contents to determine its potency, but he anticipated several wands to be jabbed into his neck if he dared to try. However, he was not granted that small piece of luxury. Severus drew in a deep breath, and the Healer uncorked the small vial. Averting the man's gaze, he arched his head up and allowed the Healer to place three drops of Veritaserum upon his tongue.

It took a few seconds for his mind to grow cloudy, and he could feel an odd coolness overcome every inch of his body as the liquid hit his bloodstream. His mind barely felt like his own now, and yet, he felt fresh fear as he was worried about what might come out of his mouth.

Elphias eventually cleared his throat, "Right then. Mr. Snape – According to your records, you graduated from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in 1978, yes?"

"That is correct."

"Right. And can you inform the Council of when you accepted the Dark Mark?"

"Early 1979. Sometime beginning of the year – I do not recall the month nor date."

"Adequate enough. According to our records of Albus Dumbledore vouching on your behalf, you defected from the Death Eaters in August 1980, in which you changed your allegiance to the Order of the Phoenix as a double agent. Is that correct?"

Severus nodded, "Yes."

Elphias glanced sternly in Severus' direction, looking him directly in the eye, "Can you inform the Council of the circumstances of that defection?"

Severus' heart dropped out of his chest and wishing nothing more than to disappear in smoke, "I was sent by Lord Voldemort to spy on Professor Sybill Trelawney during her interview with Albus Dumbledore for the position of Divination at Hogwarts. At the time she made a…prophecy. I heard a small portion of it until I was discovered and thrown out of Hogs Head where the interview took place. I carried that prophecy to Lord Voldemort, not comprehending what it meant. Once he deduced that it pertained to either the Longbottom's or the Potter's…he chose to pursue the Potter's. I was…childhood friends with Lily Potter, and…once I realised she was in danger, I approached Albus Dumbledore to ensure their safety. In exchange, I worked within Hogwarts as the post of professor."

There was a short silence within the courtroom, and all Severus could hear was the frantic beating of his own heart. Reciting his ill-fated past made himself sick.

"I see. Were you ever loyal to the Death Eater resume?"

Severus winced slightly, "…Yes. Only from the moment I took the Mark, until my defection. From that point onwards, my loyalties remained only with Albus Dumbledore."

"With our records here, you began teaching at Hogwarts in September 1981 as the Potions Professor. After Lord Voldemort's downfall in 1981 on the night Lily and James Potter died, did you ever feel remorse for the death of Tom Riddle?"

What kind of question is that, you daft fool?

Severus shook his head, slightly curling his lip, "No, I did not."

"So, if Tom Riddle perished in 1981, what kept you from abandoning your post at Hogwarts? After the death of Lily and James Potter and Tom Riddles demise, there was no need for you to stay."

Severus tilted his head slightly, "I made a pledge with Albus that I remain at the school, within the possibility of the Dark Lord returning."

"So, you expected his return?"

Severus shook his head, "Not I. Albus did. With that in mind, it was imperative I remain at Hogwarts and await the day Harry Potter would begin his education, so that I may be there to watch over him in case of the Dark Lord's return. And he did. In 1995, during the ill-planned end of the Triwizard Tournament hosted at Hogwarts."

"I see, " Elphias continued to observe Severus with a steely gaze, and yet Severus kept his eye contact steady and unfaltering, "And according to Albus and the previous Minister Cornelius Fudge – You returned to his side?"

Severus sighed, "Yes. I was several hours late, but I returned to the Dark Lord as a spy. However, he presumed I was his own spy, and I was, well…accepted back into the fold, once he realised I could give him thirteen years' worth of information."

"And did you divulge said information?"

"Enough to keep him satisfied. I gave him a skewed truth."

"If I may, Chief Doge, " Griselda Marchbanks cleared her throat slightly, "Did you ever conspire to flee, as Igor Karkaroff did before you? How did you feel about returning?"

"I wasn't pleased about it, but he accepted my adjusted claims without question. Fleeing was never my intention. I re-joined as a triple-agent, in order to relay information back to the Order of the Phoenix upon any future plans and to ensure Harry Potter's safety, " Severus continued.

"I can vouch for that, as a member of the Order myself, " Kingsley Shacklebolt interrupted.

"Right, I will take that into account, Minister, " Elphias continued, "Mr. Snape – I must ask you…What crimes did you undertake as a Death Eater? Please list everything, from the moment you joined the dark regime, to the present day, if you will."

To present day?

Severus' heart stopped cold. He knew very well his crimes would eventually be up for discussion, and he was more than prepared to relay what he could. But not on the reasoning that every single person within that very courtroom would be aware of every crime…every detail. Every moment Severus regretting since joining the Death Eater fold. He hated himself, more than anything.

He paused for a moment, trying to re-gather his swirling thoughts. It made no difference considering he had no control of the truth that he was about to reveal. He couldn't prevent it no matter how hard he tried, and he knew he was about to sound completely unforgiving. They all knew his crimes. Only that they wanted it heard directly by his own voice. He glanced down – Not daring to look anyone else in the eye. He could hear the frantic scratching of Rita Skeeter's quill upon the parchment, with absolute dread rising above him with an eerie coldness of an incoming Dementor. He didn't even want to know what she was writing about him.

He stared at the cold, tiled ground and proceeded to drone on dully to answer the question, "Espionage. Involvement in terrorist activities. Aiding the Dark Lord. The use of Unforgivable Curses. All three of them. Torture. Accessory to murder…Murder. Only upon the reign of the Dark Lord. During his absence, I only ever resumed my role as a spy."

Griselda leaned forward from her perch, "At the time of Tom Riddle's return, were you certain of which of his loyal subjects would return to his side?"

"At the time, no. I was uncertain as to who would have the courage to face him again. Death Eaters arrive masked so that their identities remain a secret to each other. It was only until further offensive measures discussed in meetings towards the end were we finally privy of each other's identity."

There was a silent nod between Elphias and Griselda, where the Chief Warlock glanced over his piece of parchment to eye Severus carefully, "…Are you guilty for the murder of Albus Dumbledore?"

The room fell painfully silent once again. Severus could hear a few murmurs amongst those seated around him, and yet, even Rita's quill had stopped etching into her notebook. Severus glanced up slowly, and locked eyes with Elphias, and wishing he could disappear entirely. The dreaded question. The one where everyone was eager to hear, but he was not willing to divulge into. The Veritaserum will spill the truth, whether he intended to or not. There was no stopping him.

Severus' voice was low, and yet he could not control the shakiness within it, "Yes – but it was not in cold-blood."

"But you also used an Unforgivable Curse to kill him – It requires intent, does it not? Why did you proceed with this? Are there witnesses to back up this claim?"

Severus shook his head, "It is not a claim – the death was planned. My intent was to kill him because there was no alternative. If I had hesitated, my position would have forfeited. His death was witnessed by Harry Potter, Draco Malfoy, and several other Death Eaters. Most of which have already perished."

"Are you able to elaborate on this supposed planned death?"

Severus glanced beside him to look at the Healer and nudged his head in his direction of the vial of Veritaserum he was still holding. He knew the potion was slowly wearing away, as he could no longer feel like his mind was invaded and controlled. The Healer, thankfully understanding Severus' silent plea, took a few steps towards him and proceeded to administer a further three drops onto his tongue. Severus closed his eyes and allowed the potion to wash over his body like a frozen sheet, until he opened his glossy dark eyes once more, looking directly up at the Council, gaze unfixed.

Severus cleared his throat, doing his best to ignore the multiple pairs of eager eyes staring down at him from their seats. He never felt so small before, "Albus Dumbledore, in an attempt to destroy a portion of the Dark Lords' soul, placed a ring on his finger presuming it was safe. He was under a charmed and cursed temptation from it. However, the ring cursed him, causing necrosis to travel rapidly through his flesh. I was able to contain it and prolong his life…But death, was still imminent. Around the same time, Narcissa Malfoy approached me in desperation to protect her son. We made an Unbreakable Vow – Refusing such a thing would have given away my undercover position. It was only afterward we realised Draco's goal was to kill Albus himself. Given the circumstances of the Vow, I stepped in for him. Albus instructed me to do exactly that because in doing so, prevented Draco from enacting murder against his will, and earned Voldemort's complete trust in me so I can continue with the mission without further suspicion."

Griselda interjected once again, "What exactly was Albus Dumbledore's strategy upon his supposed planned death?"

"That I would take the post as Headmaster soon after and protect the school to the best of my abilities, whilst retaining my undercover role in my interactions with the Carrow siblings."

"And did you have a plan in advanced?"

Severus was beginning to grow frustrated, "No – Albus ingrained his portrait with the knowledge to direct me, even after his death. He had this well-planned, however, much was left to my own devices. And yet still, my mission was to guide the Boy Who Lived, including that of implanting the idea of transferring him to safety from his place of residence, and delivering him the instrument that will destroy the dark magic binding Lord Voldemort to life."

"…So, you took orders from a portrait?"

Severus nodded, distastefully, "Upon Albus' instructions, yes. I wasn't pleased about this, but it was imperative I trust no one else. Albus gave his portrait enough information for me to continue with the mission upon his death."

Elphias seemed to give a small, almost mocking, chuckle, "You realise this sounds ludacris?"

Severus bared his teeth, irritatingly, "I realise that very well, Warlock Doge. There was no other alternative. Beside him, I worked completely alone."

"Do you have a way to confirm this, Mr. Snape?"

Severus shot Elphias a venomous glare, "Unless you take validity from a bleeding portrait, then no – only my word. And my memories, which is ridiculously deemed useless by judicial standards."

"You are correct – we are unable to use it as viable evidence, I'm afraid."

"Well, unless you are able to bring Albus back from the dead, then I assure you – My word, tainted with Veritaserum, is all you have."

Minister Kingsley nodded at Severus, looking at him through almost pitiful eyes, making Severus curling his own lip in disgust, "Mr. Snape, we will be hearing from the witnesses afterward to hear their statements, so they will have a chance to work in favor of you."

Wonderful. I can hardly contain my excitement.

Griselda leaned forward, "Mr. Snape, could you please elaborate during your role as Headmaster of Hogwarts, and inform the Council as to how you dealt with the Carrows? I believe the students would have been mercilessly tortured…What did you do about it?"

"As undercover Headmaster, I was extremely limited, " Severus sighed, "Admittedly, I spent ample time in the Headmaster's office convening with Albus' portrait in our desperate bid to search for Mr. Potter upon his disappearance. However, there were a few incidences where I was able to deter students to…safer means of detention without arising suspicion from the Carrows. I was able to save a few students and heal those horribly wounded. I was not about to see students perish under my watch - "

" - LIES! ALL LIES!" Someone suddenly shouted from the stands, in which Severus was unable to see their face. The sharp pain in his neck prevented him from turning around to find out.

"My twelve-year-old daughter was tortured with the Cruciatus Curse! He let this happen!" Another one shouted.

The Judge raised his arm, "Silence please! Allow us to question the accused appropriately – "

" – No! He needs to pay for what he did!" A different person yelled out, as several others began to retort loudly amongst themselves.

"My son is scared to go back to Hogwarts!" Someone else shouted.

"Enough! Settle down! I will have you escorted out of this courtroom if you fail to comply, " The Judge bellowed, until he turned back to Severus, "Now, allow me to continue…Were the Carrows the only two Death Eaters on campus?"

Severus winced from the shouts directed at him and nodded, doing his best to ignore the angry stares thrown in his direction, "Yes. But the Dark Lord often sent soldiers to check in on the activities. The Carrows were the only ones who remained."

"What did you do during the final battle at Hogwarts?" Elphias asked.

"Once I was cast away from the school by professors Minerva McGonagall, Pomona Sprout, and Filius Flitwick, I was instructed by the Dark Lord to remain behind. He had no real task for me at the time, so he ordered me to remain hidden, " Severus could feel an oncoming headache sting at his temples, but he tried his best to mask that sharp pain which caused his vision to become slightly hazy.

"And you complied?"

"Yes, of course – But without his watchful eye on me, I attempted to seek out Mr. Potter in a bid to relay sensitive information. But I never got that chance, idealistically."

Elphias frowned, "And why is that?"

Severus swallowed thickly, trying his best to push that imagery out of his mind again, "Because the Dark Lord presumed false information, but sent his precious cursed snake to attempt to slaughter me instead. I offered to seek out Mr. Potter for him, but he dismissed such a request. Thus, I remained silent in order to protect Mr. Potter, and did not fight against the attack – I could not allow Riddle to believe he was wrong. I was close to death when Mr. Potter found me, and I was able to pass on the information he needed to bring the Dark Lord down." He craned his neck painfully to the side, revealing the large bandage which held a large amount of dried blood.

Minister Shacklebolt raised his eyebrow in interest, "How did you survive?"

"Draco Malfoy came to my aid and used a complicated healing spell that I, myself, had taught him."

"Right, " Elphias interrupted, "And gathering from the rumors flying around and the witnesses present at Hogwarts, you returned to the battle to see the demise of Tom Riddle?"

"Yes, that is correct. "

"And what did you do after that?"

Severus winced, "…I fled and sought refuge in an abandoned building. I was ill, and I knew I'd be hunted. Mr. Potter discovered my location several days later and assisted with my…injuries. The curse from the snake had caused me to become horribly ill. Once Mr. Potter informed me of the escaped Death Eaters, I offered to remain and assist in hunting them down. I oversaw plans of attack and orchestrated the rescue mission for captives at the Quarry."

"Ahh, the Quarry incident. Several Death Eaters captured, a few dead – by your hand?"

Severus nodded, as he curled his lip, "Yes – they were further endangering lives. I had to act fast. Capturing was, at the time, not a viable option."

"And nine captives saved, with one perishing."

"Unfortunately, yes. We could not save the tenth. One of the Death Eaters attacked them in retaliation, and thus, I pursued them."

Elphias looked down on the parchment within his grasp, "Were you present at the attack at Godric's Hollow a week prior to the events at the Quarry?"

Severus' head began to pound, "Yes."

"You were a fugitive – What was your reasoning to risk exposure and capture, yourself?"

"Once it was discovered the remaining Death Eaters were planning to retaliate, it was obvious to me that they would consider hunting Harry Potter as vengeance. Once I discovered that he and his friends ran off to aid those in danger at Godric's Hollow, I pursued him. I spent the last seven years making sure he stayed alive, and I was not about to allow it to be in jeopardy now."

"What did you do once you arrived there? How did you remain undetected?"

Severus was not about to tell them about the Cloak, "I remained well-hidden. I was, after all, a spy. I aided those in danger and injured, but my primary goal was to find Potter."

"Do you have any witnesses to confirm your whereabouts?"

Severus nodded, as he felt his vision spin slowly around him, "Yes – I went to aid of one of my ex-students Katie Bell, who was severely injured in a blast that rippled in the village center. I was also seen by Hermione Granger, and of course, Harry Potter. Otherwise, I remained hidden."

Minister Kingsley shifted in his seat, and looked at Severus with a small, discreet nod of understanding, "To satisfy the court, why did you choose to remain in hiding?"

Severus hung his head, "If I were to become captured, I would not be able to protect Harry Potter. I know the Death Eaters – I worked with them. I felt it was my duty to attempt to right my wrongs and bring the other enemies to justice whilst seeking out the captives. My skills will be of better use to the Order than to rot in a cell in Azkaban. I have, thus far, been able to interrogate – witnessed by Minerva McGonagall, Harry Potter, and Draco Malfoy – Amycus Carrow, in the whereabouts of the others. I have reason to believe we have discovered their final location."

Elphias raised his eyebrow in surprise, "You know the location?"

Severus nodded, "An educated estimate. I am more than willing to disclose that information in private, as with the names of some of those Death Eaters still at large."

Griselda tilted her head, "Alright – I'm sure we can come to some agreement, once we evaluate the information gathered today…Do you think you deserve to be punished for your crimes, Mr. Snape?"

There was a suffocating silence in the room, as Severus lowered his head. He felt his cheeks unnaturally flush, but not out of embarrassment. It was shameful enough to be on public display like a circus animal, but the question itself stirred something strange within him. He felt his heart constrict with a dull pain, but not of the physical kind. He felt his own breaths grow shallow, but he kept his eyes cast downwards, not wanting to look anyone else in the eye. He had enough – he just wanted to go home…Wherever that may be.

Severus winced slightly before he lowered his head further. It was enough of an effort to prevent his voice from breaking, "…Yes. I believe I should be punished for all the terrible things I have done and had to do out of duty. I feel…regret. Every loss – every life – I could not save; is an unimaginable grief I cannot overcome. My choice to accept the Dark Mark was one of my biggest regrets, and I cannot erase all the horrors I've had to take part in, and witness, as a result of that choice. Each wrong choice in my life continues to haunt me. I am not proud of my actions, and if I could do things differently, I would have chosen better. I already live with the pain of loss, and that…kills me. I, already, punish myself…I have nothing left."

"He should be hanged!" One of the previous wizards shouted angrily again, causing Severus' chest to constrict in a sudden panic.

"Yes! He should!"

"Feed him to the Dementors!"

"Death to the Death Eater!" There were a few cheers following.

Harry furiously stood up from his seat, and glared at the rowdy strangers, "HEY! Stop it! You have no idea!"

One of the strangers stood up from their seat on the other side, and looked at Harry with a murderous glare, "Stop defending the Death Eater!"

Harry shot back, "He defected from them – did you not pay attention?! He's been on our side for eighteen years!"

"Mr. Potter, sit down – " Minerva McGonagall whispered harshly to Harry beside him, "We will have our chance later."

Minister Shacklebolt amplified his voice, "Everyone remain silent! That is quite enough! We have much to get through, so if you could refrain from calling out absurdly, we can move through this trial efficiently and swiftly. We are here to listen to the questioning of the accused and hear testimonies from witnesses in their support."

There was a short and uncomfortable silence within the room, as Severus watched as Elphias and Griselda lean closer to each other to murmur a few things without being heard. There were a few nods between them until the elderly witch leaned forward to address Severus directly. Severus' nose, however, began to bleed, and his breaths grew struggled once again. He felt like his stomach was about to hurl, and he felt beads of sweat forming on his brow.

Griselda clasped her hands together, "Mr. Severus Snape – We will announce a short recess so that you can be attended to by a Healer. Furthermore, we can address the information you have given us and prepare the witnesses for their testimony. I think we can all agree that we could use a break at this point."

Severus merely nodded warily, not able to pay much attention as the room spun sickeningly around him. He didn't hear much of anything else, but he felt the chains around his wrists loosen until he was hoisted up by the same two Auror escorts who led him to the courtroom. As he turned, his paled face found Harry's, who was seated behind him to the left. Harry was staring at him, looking solemn and pale himself. He was seated next to Minerva, and the two appeared in mid-conversation. Severus was turned away, just as he noticed Harry handing something to Minerva, which had him in deep thought.

Soon enough, Severus was escorted away to the Healers clinic in time to feel his chest burn.

What on Earth was those Gryffindors planning?