"We cultivate love when we allow our most vulnerable and powerful selves to be deeply seen and known, and when we honor the connection that grows from that offering with trust, respect, kindness, and affection.

Love is not something we give or get; it is something that we nurture and grow, a connection that can only be cultivated between two people when it exists within each one of them – we can only love others as much as we love ourselves.

Shame, blame, disrespect, betrayal, and the withholding of affection damage the roots from which love grows. Love can only survive these injuries if they are acknowledged, healed, and rare."

~ Brené Brown, 

The few days following Harry's rescue were still quite a blur.

Harry Potter was confined to the Hospital Wing for a further three days after he was discovered buried in rubble from their venture down into the depths, whilst he focused on his recovery. He was slowly gaining his energy back, much to his relief. His head injury was healing, and he no longer had to be stuck wearing a ridiculous bandage, in which Severus had mocked repeatedly, much to his own amusement. His ribs still felt sore and bruised, but it no longer felt uncomfortable to breathe. His left arm remained in a sling for a little while longer as some of the shattered bones were still regrowing and repairing, but it was healing without any further issues. His entire body still ached as per the physicality of the mission and feeling as if he had endured one big marathon. His muscles felt like they were on fire once he had gathered enough energy to finally get up and move around, and barely so on his still-repairing ankle.

Severus himself was safely discharged from the Hospital Wing, as he too, spent a further few days recovering from his own ordeal. It took a little longer for him to regain his own strength after his frightening deterioration, but what was a welcome relief, was that he was no longer in agony. His wound – now a scarred mess – occasionally caused him pain, which he knew would be something he could never erase and would have to live with. But for the most part, he was able to function as he used to, magic included. He was pleased enough to be able to cast spells without a hiccup, and he felt comfort in that and knowing he did not have to rely on another to perform even the simplest of spells.

Occasionally, Severus would leave Hogwarts and attend to other matters, such as assisting the Malfoys in finally repairing their home at Malfoy Manor. Kingsley Shacklebolt enlisted further assistance to help with the task as gratitude for their aid on behalf of the Ministry. But most of the time, Severus would return to ensure Harry was healing well, even despite his disagreements with Madam Pomfrey about his interference. Nevertheless, Harry always had company during his stay.

If his friends were not there, Severus was.

On Harry's last day trapped in the Hospital Wing, he found himself surrounded by the rest of the DA who spent the majority of the morning telling stories of the mission from everyone's respective point-of-views. Now that Harry was able to finally recall what had happened down there in the depths, he was relieved to debrief those events with his friends in order to make sense of it all.

"Hey, Seamus – What the hell did you do down there, anyway?" Ron asked, stuffing his face with a pumpkin pasty sent up by the house elves from the Hogwarts kitchens. There appeared to be a mini feast in the Hospital Wing, much to everyone's delight. Everyone was helping themselves, reminding Harry of the late-night parties hosted within the Gryffindor Common Room.

Seamus looked sheepish, as he nursed a large mug of hot chocolate within his hands, "Two Death Eaters trapped us down there, so I accidentally used Bombarda and realised that was a mistake when I blasted a hole in the ground. That's when we saw the Inferi and made them a little mad – "

"You bloody idiot, " Katie grinned, "I told you to lay off those spells before we got down there."

Seamus shrugged, "I'm obviously not made for stealth, that's for sure."

"Then those damn things crawled out of there like something you'd see in a horror film, " Dean shuddered, "Absolutely horrendous."

Barely half of them laughed at the joke because everyone else had no idea what a Muggle film was.

"We lost Fang, you know, " Luna interjected sweetly, nibbling on one of Molly's chocolate chip cookies, "He definitely sensed something amiss."

"Fang the cowardly dog, " Ron responded, "I can't believe he bloody left us!"

Padma bit her lip, "Yeah, then Fang ran to us after Hannah was dragged away…He must have sensed our danger when we got stuck with the smaller Acromantulas."

Hannah, sitting closely beside Neville, looked rather dismal, "…Now I get why Ron is scared to death of them. Terrifying things, they are!"

Neville turned to Harry, "By the way, Harry – How did Draco Malfoy end up there?"

Everyone's eyes suddenly darted to Harry, until there was a small, slightly uncomfortable silence.

"He…He wanted to help, " Harry said, with a heaved sigh, as he shifted himself up further in bed, "After all, his mum was trapped amongst them too, and, well…He had been working with us for a while now, planning this whole thing. "

"…You're joking, " Seamus frowned in disbelief.

"No, he isn't, " Hermione said, as she shook her head, "What you didn't know is that he was attacked a while ago, with his home destroyed, when they kidnapped his mother in retaliation. Snape rescued him, and he spent some time recovering with us because he was in bad shape."

Harry clenched his jaw, "He really didn't want anyone to know he was helping…so try and keep that to yourselves. The reason I'm telling you this is that I don't want you to give him a tough time if you ever see him again…I don't want any more problems, alright?" There were a few collective nods around him, as they accepted his request without further protests. Some of them looked at each other, still slightly unsure, but they soon realised Harry was right. They really did not need any more trouble.

Hermione nodded, "Malfoy and I worked together to retrieve everyone's wands. He concocted the burn salves and the additional potions you all had with you."

"He may still be an insufferable git, but…" Ron shrugged, "…He did a lot for us down there. I suppose I can't hate him for that."

"Blimey, " Dean looked surprised, "I wish he decided to help us properly when his Death Eater mates decided to attack us at Hogwarts. I guess better late than never for him to finally grow a spine and think for himself."

The room fell silent, as everyone seemed to look at each other with a deep sense of shame.

The DA continued to chat amongst themselves, sharing stories and talking about possible career paths, and returning to school, for those who were choosing to repeat their Hogwarts year in another week. They spoke for hours, and for Harry, it felt nice to chat about the mundane things. At one point in the afternoon, Harry saw Severus make a brief appearance, but one look at the crowded room and he quickly departed. Harry knew the man still felt awkward being around the others, after everything that was revealed, but Harry couldn't help but feel there was more to it. Severus despised the confrontation, as he knew he'd be dealing with the students seeing him differently, which he had a tough time coming to terms with. He wasn't quite ready for that yet.

But as the afternoon dragged on, some of the DA members began to return to their families as most were finally cleared by Madam Pomfrey to leave. Once Neville and Luna finally departed, Hermione, Ron, and Ginny stayed behind with Harry to keep him company for a little while longer. As much as he was grateful to see the rest of the DA seemingly, he still needed a little more time to decompress the events and everything that happened following the stressful rescue.

"How's Snape?" Hermione asked, with much concern.

"Um, alright, I think. I haven't seen him since yesterday afternoon, but he didn't say anything before he left. I think he felt awkward with the rest of the DA here and didn't want to hang around, " Harry responded, feeling a little relieved he could understand the man a little more, "He no longer looks like Death walking now, so that's a relief."

"That's good. We were all really worried, " Ginny said, crinkling her brow. Her long red hair slung over one of her shoulders, as she sat right next to him, "When we couldn't find you, McGonagall told us he woke up, and once he found out you had been missing for a few days…He kind of lost it. He was still rather sick, but he reached for his wand anyhow and tried to send you a message down there."

Harry's heart sank. No wonder the Patronus kept fading away.

He used whatever energy he had left to convey the doe and keep it active.

"I wish we had thought of that, " Ron said, biting his lip, "His Patronus alerted the rest of us to you."

"When we finally brought you here, he wouldn't leave your side until you woke up, " Hermione said, softly, giving Harry the smallest of smiles, "…I've never seen him like that before."

"We passed him in the halls as we were arriving earlier, but I suppose he didn't want to intrude with the others here, " Ron said, "He didn't say where he was going, though. Actually, he didn't say a single thing."

Harry paused for a moment, taking it all in. But something within the back of his mind had him worried. After all, the man still had nowhere else to go but Grimmauld Place, and he had to wonder how Severus was dealing with it all now. Even despite their good news, Severus would be taking it far more difficult than everyone else. Harry's mind trailed back to the rescue at the Quarry, and the conversation he had with him that night. He knew Severus was still finding it difficult to face the others, and still felt like he still didn't have a place he could belong. It was not something he could come to terms with, as Harry understood that. But Harry also knew that, even though their mission is finally over, he still was not willing to give up on the broken man just yet. There were still a few things they needed to come to terms with, and now that they finally had a chance to properly heal, the road to recovery was still a long way away.

Once Madam Pomfrey finally cleared him to leave, Harry departed from his friends and returned immediately back to Grimmauld Place to find Kreacher, alive and well, bustling around the residence cleaning and keeping himself busy. The old house-elf had a small bandage over his ear, and his legs wrapped up in several places as he also was able to slowly heal from his own wounds. The residence was awfully quiet and devoured of any other souls, and it felt suddenly depressingly empty. So, he decided to confront Kreacher in the kitchen in order to get some answers to settle his racing heart.

"Kreacher, did Severus stop by here today?"

The old house-elf nodded slowly, "Yes he did, Master Potter, very briefly this morning. He did not stay long. "

"Did he mention where he was going?"

"He said nothing. Although, he did not seem like himself."

Harry frowned, "How so?"

Kreacher paused for a moment, "I am unsure, but I could…sense it. He was a little erratic, and I believe he was clearing his quarters."

"Clearing his quarters?" Harry's heart sunk, "Uh, thanks, Kreacher. If he stops by, please come and get me."

With that information and confusion as to why Severus was packing up, Harry Apparated immediately to Severus' old residence at Spinners End. The place was still in charcoal-filled, debris-littered ruin and no one to be seen. The place was left untouched since their last venture there, and the warded charms still remained active to mask its true destruction from the oblivious Muggles surrounding it. Dissatisfied with his findings, Harry then went to search the Shrieking Shack, but still nothing. His own mind trailed back when he discovered the injured man about three months ago and realised how much had happened since that day. And yet, the place also remained untouched for several months, as evident as the fresh coat of dust which covered the old wooden floorboards. Eventually making his way back to Hogwarts, he prowled the familiar cold, dark, and murky stone dungeons for any sign of the ex-Professor, but there was nothing to be seen. He even decided to return to the Thestrals in the clearing within the Forbidden Forest where he knew Severus used to frequent, but again, nothing. He stopped in his tracks to attempt to figure out where the man may have fled to, but he was all out of other ideas.

Except one.

Harry decided to travel to Godric's Hollow and try his luck there. It was the only other possible option.

It was a clear sunny afternoon, close to dusk when Harry arrived at the village which was the center of events that changed his life. The village where his parents were hunted down and killed by Voldemort on that fateful Halloween night. The village which saw the end of Voldemort's first reign. The village where Harry and Hermione visited on Christmas Eve while they were still on the run. The village where they were attacked by Nagini taking the appearance of Bathilda Bagshot. The village where Ginny was taken before his eyes.

The village in which the bodies of his parents were laid to rest.

Harry wandered by himself through the quiet village center, stopping quickly by the old Potter Cottage, which still remained untouched and enchanted. Notes and flowers still encompassed the broken fence around the property, from people in their support of Harry and the death of his parents. Some of the flowers there were wilted with age, but he noticed that there had been additional fresh flowers added to it far recently. By the letterbox, was a bunch of fresh lilies that had been placed there, however it was without a note. Harry reached out to touch the delicate, white flower petals, wondering if it was Severus who left them there. Harry looked up to observe the house still in ruins, taking in the damage that had been frozen in time for decades. However, there seemed to be no movement within, and thus, he quickly moved on not wanting to dwell on the events that occurred within. He himself did not want to venture that far. But as the chime of the old church bell rang several times, piercing the silence around him, he found himself wandering towards the cemetery where his beloved parents were buried.

Immediately, Harry's heart broke into a million pieces, and he stopped beyond the treeline and the rickety fence.

From his place in the shadows, he watched Severus Snape from a distance, kneeling at the graves of his parents. The man hunched over, quite evidently trying to compose himself as he leaned his hand against the cold stone with Lily's name etched on its surface, and his head bowed low. He touched Lily's side of the cold, aged stone, begging silently for a voice that he'll never get to hear again. Harry was hesitant to approach the broken man, still appearing in deep mourning for a mistake that cost Lily her life. He watched in his own deep sadness, as Severus' body shook with silent sobs, but he knew to give the man the space he needed before he even dared to take a few steps further towards him. It was difficult to fathom that Severus had never visited her grave since her passing, and Harry knew that was largely because she shared the grave with James, his own childhood enemy. But Harry was more surprised that Severus chose to come here on his own accord, after being adamant that he had no desire to previously. Perhaps this may act as a measure of release for the man still deeply wounded by his own blunder, in the hope that maybe, he would finally gather the strength to move on and live a life that he deserved.

A good life. One, hopefully, filled with genuine promise this time.

Harry stood silently, wishing he had brought the Invisibility Cloak with him, barely able to hear the broken words that Severus was speaking to the graves. In fact, Harry would have gladly given the Cloak to him instead as it would far benefit him the most within that moment.

Severus heaved a painful, shuddered breath.

"…I didn't mean for this to happen…Lily, I hope you know that it was all an accident…I know I messed up…I tried to watch over him, but I do not think that it will ever be enough to make things right…I'm sorry I hurt him over the years…Please, do not think so little of me…I'm a fool…A cowardly, fool…You should be here, not I…"

Harry felt rooted to the spot, unable to move for fear of making things worse. Perhaps he'd let the man have his time, and whatever release he needed to overcome this last hurdle. He needed to move on as much as Harry did, and he respected that. He knew very well this would be difficult for him to deal with and come to terms with. After all, he was granted life, and now he had to figure out what to do with it. If anything, this was the first step.

"…I want to continue to protect and guide him, in your memory, but…I don't know how…I don't want to revert back to what I was…Everything has changed now, including myself…I feared the change before, but I am unsure of what I am meant to do now…"

Finally hearing enough, Harry decided to finally approach Severus, taking each careful step not to startle him. The man didn't move or flinch once he reached him, and silently, Harry dropped to his side staring back at the stone grave with the names of his parents forever engraved before him. The pair of them sat in silence, together, for what seemed like an eternity. But Severus still looked sad and defeated, turning his head away from Harry as he stared dismally back at the moss-covered gravestone. The cemetery was quiet, as the pair of them seemed to be the only living souls that could be seen. Harry shifted in his position upon the grass-covered ground, taking small but quick glances at the man beside him, trying to formulate his own words.

"This was the fault of Peter, not you. You tried to save them, remember?" Harry's voice was quiet, almost at a whisper, and Severus appeared to hesitate, jerking his head whilst keeping his own face concealed by his hair. "…Were you really thinking of leaving without telling me?"

Severus seemed to twitch in hesitation, unsure of how to respond, "…I am hardly needed anymore."

Harry looked at the man in bewilderment and shock, "What? No…That's not true. I'm not going to kick you out of Grimmauld Place. No, you are welcome to stay – "

"- You misunderstand. I am no longer needed, " The man refused to look at Harry.

Harry was in utter disbelief, "Do you really think I don't need you anymore? I know the mission is done and finished now, but…Doesn't mean you are no longer needed. But you don't need to disappear and pretend none of this ever happened."

Severus appeared wary, "I am yet to find my place again...That requires a little more solitary thought."

Harry felt a little wounded, feeling as if the man's words were tearing him up inside, "Your place is with us, though. Stop thinking of yourself as an outcast, still. They know your story. They know what you did, and how much you helped. Stop thinking you mean nothing."

Severus seemed to snarl at the thought, "They do not know my story. Only the tip of the iceberg."

"You know that's not what I meant."

Severus heaved another heavy, almost agonising sigh, "It's not that simple, Harry. I can never forget what I did – To your mother, as a Professor, and especially as Headmaster. All I see are the people I've hurt. Despite my true loyalties, I can never forget my past and my actions."

Harry lowered his voice, "But I'm not asking you to forget – I'm asking you to forgive yourself. You just…have to." He was getting desperate in his plea, now. His eyes began to water.

"I am unsure that I am able to. Some wounds simply run too deep to heal. I'm the primary reason your parents are here beneath our feet, Harry. I do not think I'm capable. I can't - " Severus shut his eyes, as he was growing slightly distressed.

" - You can, Severus. You've come this far already, haven't you? Again, this is not your fault. You never intended for this to happen, " Harry rubbed his eyes, as he looked at Severus who appeared to be shaking, "We've both admitted to things that have been heavy on our minds – Neither one of us were ever ones to admit such things before, but we did…In the face of danger, and sadness, and grief…We did. That already, allows us to start healing. We're no longer in danger. We've been through enough, haven't we? You're not going to be alone anymore, and neither am I."

Severus lowered his head, looking ashamed as he watched Harry also close to breaking point beside him.

"All this time, you were looking out for me. For my mother, and yes, even for my father. They know that – They know what you gave up - " Harry felt a single tear trail down his cheek, "You didn't have to, but you did. I know you're afraid of the future now, hell I am too, but you just can't leave now - " He leaned forward and placed both his hands upon the grassy earth, when suddenly he choked on a rising sob, wishing so desperately to see his parents again. They seemed so close, and yet so painfully far away. But he also couldn't lose Severus, either. Both of them worked hard to make things right again and losing him, too, would crush him completely. " - We can't change what happened, but we have to move on, somehow. We just have to – "

Suddenly, Harry felt an arm reach around his back and clutch his shoulder, gently pulling him closer to Severus and allowing the man's head to rest upon his as Harry made no effort to prevent his own falling tears. Harry felt the man shift slightly when suddenly the edge of Severus' traveling cloak wrapped around his shoulders providing a little extra comfort. At that moment, Harry felt like a lost child again. But in the context of it, in a way, they were both still lost and trying to come to terms with everything that had happened within their lives up until that moment.

They sat there together for an exceedingly long time, basking in the serene silence around them, except for the sounds of Harry's sniffles soaking Severus' robes in his attempt to come to terms with everything that had happened. Like a wave crashing over the shore, suddenly the weight of everything crushed them both at that moment and Harry knew, that they needed more time to properly heal from this. But both knew very well they could not do it without the other because they now seemed to understand each other better than most.

He wanted to talk to his parents, but the choked sobs rising within him prevented him from doing so, and he felt Severus tighten his hold trying to calm him down. But maybe, words weren't needed this time. He knew his parents could understand now that he wouldn't be alone, and that Severus has been, and was still, looking after him. And maybe even the reverse, too, if the man would allow him to.

Time will further heal them both, as they try to mend their lives again, and finally, move on.

It will not be easy, but never impossible.

At least an hour had passed since Harry and Severus sat together at the grave, and yet neither of them was willing to leave the presence of the other. Over the months they spent in each other's strange company, they begun to find more connections within themselves, and one who bound their fates together was, of course, Lily herself. It was a warming thought to think that it takes one person to change your life. One person to make better choices, and to take a better path. No matter how grim that path was. Lily's love saved Harry, and Severus' love for Lily, saved his own, too. And in Lily's death, united them both through the hardships that came with it.

Fate indeed worked in strange ways.

Eventually, after Harry's cries of built-up grief died down, both he and Severus quietly made a move to leave the graves of Lily and James and depart from the cemetery which left them both rather heartbroken.

It seemed to be a sense of emotional release for not only Harry, who was never really able to properly mourn his parents during the reign of Voldemort, but it seemed to act as some type of closure for Severus as well. The man had his time to come to terms with the loss, even at that moment, and maybe perhaps, he could use that to properly recover from his own ordeal over the course of his own damaged life. They both still had a long way to go, but at least now, the threat of danger was gone and their lives no longer in terrible peril.

Still stricken, Severus turned to Harry once they left the sacred space of the cemetery. It took a short time for the man to finally compose himself, as he tried desperately to put up a stronger front, "We have one last thing on our agenda, and I would like you to accompany me if you're up for it. "

Harry nodded, without a verbal response.

He stuck his arm out for Harry to grasp onto, as they both Apparated away immediately, and reappearing in the Forbidden Forest where the whinnies of the Thestrals were heard instantly upon their arrival. Harry was relieved to find Severus no longer had the urge to expel his stomach contents after the Apparition, and by the expression of the man himself, he was rather relieved as well. They both walked in silence back to the area where Severus had endured three painful rituals during three excruciatingly long full moon nights. Once they entered the familiar clearing, Harry saw both Draco and his mother Narcissa waiting idly by within the shadows of the large ancient oak trees surrounded them.

Frowning, Harry walked up to the pair.

Draco stuck his hands in his pockets, "Potter – "

Harry nodded, " – Malfoy."

Narcissa looked up at Severus, slightly impatient, "You're late."

"Apologies, Narcissa. We had something that needed our immediate attention, " Severus responded. It was almost difficult to believe how composed the man was now, even after finding him consumed in fresh grief only a few hours prior. They were both still in a terrible mess, and yet they were both here, trying to mask their own heartache. But they had one more important thing left to do – another act of closure.

Narcissa turned her gaze sharply to Harry, eyeing his appearance carefully. There was some tension still between them, and Harry still felt a little uncomfortable.

Harry shifted his feet, "Mrs. Malfoy. I, uh…I wanted to say thanks. You know…For telling Voldemort I was dead that time in the forest. That can't have been an easy decision for you."

Narcissa gave an uptight, yet conflicted smile, as she looked from her son, and back to Harry, "Well. I knew you wouldn't lie to me about Draco – So I simply exchanged the favor."

"It worked, and it bought us more time, " Harry nodded gratefully, "But I also want to thank you for helping us down there in the caves…Your son worked with us for a long time to get you all back."

"Despite the tension upon his inclusion, Draco did exceptionally well. He worked hard, " Severus looked pleased, "His efforts did not go unnoticed."

Narcissa reached out to place a hand on Draco's shoulder, "I, too, am proud of him." She looked between Severus and Harry, and nodded, "Thank you both for watching over him, despite my absence."

"Sorry to break up everyone's platitudes, but can we get this over and done with? I don't fancy on bumping into anyone else on these grounds, " Draco looked slightly uncomfortable.

Withdrawing his wand, Severus outstretched his other hand once he flourished his wand, and in a flurry of dark purple and black smoke, his Death Eater mask materialised within his grasp, still concealed in its dark protective cloth from the ravaging curse within the dark vessel. With a swish of his own robes, he turned to the very spot he knelt upon for three separate nights, enduring the torments and the memories that accompanied one of the most difficult obstacles he'd ever have to face. With another flick of his wand, the spot upon the forest floor began to open up into a small pit, big enough for the mask to fit.

Narcissa frowned, "Why bury it? Is it not best that it is destroyed completely?"

Severus shook his head, "Not this one. It is imperative that this one is to be buried, in order to bind and mute the curse contained within it." Turning towards the pit, Severus carefully placed the encompassed silver mask within it, lowering it down with a non-verbal levitation charm, as he knelt beside it staring at the object in repulsion. There was a short silence between the four, as each looked at each other seemingly for confirmation.

Feeling the heaviness of the awkward silence, Harry decided to speak, "…I feel like we need to say a few words or something."

Severus turned to look at Harry with a sarcastically raised eyebrow until he turned back to the mask speaking in his deep, baritone voice, "…Good bloody riddance."

Draco let out a small snort, "That'll do it."

Severus shrugged, "It requires none other, don't you agree?"

"Can't argue with that, sir, " Harry smirked, as he turned to take a few steps towards the pit, making sure to witness it in its entirety.

With another wave of his wand, Severus caused the ground to shift, until the mask was now completely buried underneath the forest floor, finally hidden away, and lost to the earth. Silently, he cast a few protective spells over the area, ensuring that it was well and truly hidden and out of further danger. Severus slowly stood up, exchanged a quick smirk with Harry, then turned to the Malfoys.

"We must be going now. We have several matters we must tend to, ourselves. Thank you, Severus, for your assistance in rebuilding our home, " Narcissa spoke, "You are more than welcome to remain at the Manor if you so wish."

"I appreciate the offer Narcissa, but I too, have other matters, " Severus responded.

Narcissa nodded, glancing at Harry, still slightly conflicted, "Very well."

Instead, Harry turned to Draco, and outstretched his arm, causing a look of surprise to both Narcissa and Severus. Draco appeared to hesitate until he drew in a breath and reached out with his own, to complete the handshake. It was ever so brief, but valuable in its gesture.

"Oh, and before I forget – " Draco reached into his black fitted blazer, and retrieved his DA coin, " – You can have this back."

Harry blinked several times, "You're welcome to keep it, you know."

"Just in case? Not bloody likely, Potter, " Draco flipped the coin up in the air towards him, and with Seeker skills, Harry caught it with ease.

"Suit yourself, " Harry responded, calmly, "See you around?"

Draco frowned, "Hopefully not."

Harry couldn't help but chuckle. It was worth a shot. He didn't expect him to agree with it, but the sentiment was there. Although they weren't friends, much to Harry's own relief, they weren't mortal enemies anymore, either. After what they had all endured, they had enough hostility to last them the rest of their lives. Narcissa took a last glance at both Harry and Severus, before the both of them Apparated away leaving them alone again once more.

Without another word, Severus turned on his heel to make his way to the larger, more ancient oak tree he used to frequently occupy, and sat down upon its twisted roots, staring back at the Hogwarts castle looming against a magnificent blazing orange-red sky, as the sun slowly began to disappear beyond the mountains. Harry decided to follow, and plant himself beside him on the other twisted root.

When Severus finally managed to compose himself again, he turned to face Harry and held out something to him. Something familiar.

It was a feather. A golden, red shimmering feather.

It was from Fawkes, the phoenix. Dumbledore's phoenix.

Harry stared at the precious object quizzically, slowly retrieving it from the man's grasp, "…What – Fawkes? "

"It appears so, " Severus' expression was serious, "I found it upon your parent's grave when I first arrived."

Harry frowned, feeling confused, "Why on earth would he come back?"

Severus stared at Harry with a deadpan expression, "…Perhaps to gloat?"

Harry paused for a moment, still in disbelief. But it took him a few more minutes for realisation to cross his face, as his bright emerald eyes grew wide. He looked hastily between the feather, and Severus, attempting to piece it all together, "Wait a minute…No, don't you see? Fawkes must have known you were sick. It makes perfect sense."

Severus' curious frown deepened, "I fail to see how it does."

"I think it was a…a lesson, Severus."

Severus crossed his arms comfortably over his chest, staring at Harry with his piercing dark eyes for further explanation, "I still do not understand."

Harry bit his lip, trying to formulate the right words to convey, "If Fawkes came to save you, we may have never had the chance to fix things in the way we did. By keeping itself distant and allowing us to mend…Well, us. Think about it – If Fawkes came to save you from Nagini's bite that night, you wouldn't have bothered to hang around, and likely would have left completely. Although, I presume you would have."

Severus stopped himself cold, taking in Harry's words. The man seemed to hesitate, but the bitterness within his voice grew stronger, "Most likely the case, although I'm unsure what I would have done otherwise, but that seems far plausible. However, that also sounds very much like an Albus Dumbledore method of approach."

Harry paused again, still trying to gather his thoughts, "You don't think…Dumbledore, well knew? Or anticipated this to happen? You know – us fixing things."

"Although he was no Seer…Nothing surprises me with him anymore. He is crafty, so it seems, even beyond his death, " Severus sighed, "I supposed Fawkes left this as a reminder of how much things have changed. But I believe you are correct. The bird stayed away, and I suppose that, yes, it provided us with the opportunity to restore it ourselves."

Fawkes' feather was still clutched desperately within Harry's hand, not wanting to part with the little piece of memento from Fawkes, and Dumbledore, they had left. He flipped it within his hands, staring at the large, gold-shimmered feather in awe, as the realisation of it all hit him all over again. He looked back up at Severus, who now seemed rather shocked himself as he, too, begun to further realise the true gravity of its meaning.

"Sir…What happened in Phase Three? You never really told me what happened. Or what you saw – " Harry finally asked, still twirling the feather within his hand.

Severus locked eyes with Harry, as his face lost its stern rigidity as it soon softened. The corner of his mouth twitched into a small smile, but quickly, and sadly, faded. Despite that, he looked away and averted his gaze upon the gleaming Hogwarts castle in the distance. He seemed unsure to say anything.

Harry lowered his head, "…You don't have to tell me. I was just wondering. You weren't in pain that night, and I figured, maybe you saw something good this time."

Severus drew in a deep shuddering breath until he turned to look at Harry again. The dark eyes found the green ones, searching for even an ounce of courage that may have remained within him. The man seemed unsure of himself as if he were stuck in some inner conflict. Once the green eyes seemed a little too much for him to bear, the man looked away again. His hands twisted almost nervously within his lap, "…It was a memory. One I thought I'd forgotten, or simply, didn't want to remember."

There was another pause, until Severus continued, "It was the night your parents lost their lives. Rubeus Hagrid delivered you here from your damaged residence, and Albus tasked me to meet with him to ensure your safety upon your arrival. This was soon after I made the pledge with Albus to protect you - " He paused again, taking another deep breath, " - You were just over a year old, and Rubeus was unable to settle you. You were crying hysterically after the ordeal. So…Rubeus thought it would have been a bright idea to pass you to me, in hopes that I could settle you instead. I didn't know what I was doing, but eventually…You calmed down. I held you in my arms until Albus was summoned. That was the first time I met you, Harry. If only I'd have realised how mistreated you would have been at your relatives from that point on, I would have - " The man hesitated to continue.

" – Offered to take me instead?" Harry suddenly felt hopeful for something that never happened, and yet he realised, how close it would have been for things to have been so different for him growing up.

Severus looked ashamed of himself, but without a verbal response, he nodded instead. "I understand the importance of the blood protection, and that it was imperative you were to stay with them, however…I would have pleaded with Albus for a better way. If only I knew far earlier how wretched your relatives made your life for you."

"No one could have known."

"No, but I should have, " Severus spoke harshly, and began to speak in erratic tangents again, "I knew of your aunt Petunia – I knew what a foul woman she was - I should have known better - Albus should have found another place for you - I should have done more – "

Harry suddenly grabbed Severus' arm, stopping the man in his manic, verbal train of thought. "Severus. What's done, is done. We can't change it. Tom Riddle is gone now – he won't hurt us anymore. You're free. We're both alive. Let's try and move forward, okay? We both deserve that much, and…I still need you here."

Despite seeing the man still heavily consumed in his past, Harry knew he tried. He tried to make a difference. Now he knows the mistakes he made, and the choices he faced. But above all, Harry felt a sense of blissful relief. Relief in the sense that there was at least someone in his life fighting for him upon the deaths of his parents. Besides Dumbledore and McGonagall, the Potions Master consumed in remorse and grief for a terrible mistake who also fought for his life without asking for a single thing in return. No, Severus never asked for anything. He spent his life working without selfish gain and yet would gladly lay down his life for a cause he grew to believe in, and a child that was not even his own. Harry found that extremely admirable, and he knew that even now, Severus would continue to fight for him.

And Harry felt safe now.

It was definitely an unforeseen chain of events since the Battle of Hogwarts, and yet, Harry could not ask for anything more. He conquered three enemies – one who wanted him dead, one who was his school rival, and one who could not move past his own childhood trauma and saw Harry as a replica of James. One true enemy now completely perished from the face of the earth. One enemy turned into a mutual ally and one whom he now looked up to as a father.

Harry couldn't help but smile, completely catching his ex-Professor off guard.

For the first time, Harry felt proud to remain beside him. A man who gave up so much of his life to keep him safe mentored him at every turn and kept him alive.

Maybe luck, and even fate, was on their side after all.

September 1st - Christmas Eve, Dec 24th, 1998

Returning to Hogwarts for a new school year was indeed a strange experience, considering all the events that took place during the previous school year and the post-war Death Eater roundup. Although so much has changed, in a way, it felt like a regular school year. Well, as regular as it should be. Harry still expected something to go wrong, considering how his previous years turned out, however it took him a while to come to terms with the fact that the Second War was well and truly over. There was no threat to the school. No imposters among them. No cursed Defence Against the Dark Arts position. No potential murderers in their midst.

Nope, nothing.

Just the general academic stress, and problems any school would face with teenagers of their caliber. Although most of the senior students who returned to repeat, now carried more confidence and dedication to the school curriculum. Even though about two-thirds of the students returned, they were more determined than ever to pass their NEWTs and focus on something else rather than fighting solely for their lives and those of their family and peers.

As Headmistress McGonagall had organised, there was a grief counselor employed at the school, who provided emotional aid to those still traumatised by the events of the Second War. Even some of the Professors found themselves utilising the service from the Ministry, which helped everyone to deal with it as best as they could, however, still some of the students did have a difficult time focusing because of it. A lot of the students who did participate at the Battle of Hogwarts were still suffering nightmares, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. Even Harry and his friends, much to their expectations.

Harry himself was still suffering nightmares worse than anyone, but he was able to manage it with Severus' Animo Silentium elixir and utilising some of the Occlumency techniques he taught him while they were confined at Grimmauld Place. It seemed to help, although, his nightmares never changed, always showing him the faces of the people who lost their lives. Even Severus himself, at the brink of death.

The Houses themselves seemed a little more united this time, and for a strange turn of events, the Hufflepuffs, Ravenclaws, and even the Gryffindors made sure to warmly welcome back the few Slytherin's brave enough to return. Those Slytherins were forced to fight in their war against them, largely because of the heavy and dangerous influence from their families, but now they wanted nothing more than to put that all behind them. The other Houses began to make more of an effort to include everyone else, and Harry was happy to see more inter-House friendships blooming without prejudice and ostracism.

Flitwick was still teaching Charms, Sprout was still teaching Herbology, and Trelawny resumed full control of Divination once Firenze re-joined his own kind. Slughorn continued to teach Potions, although he seemed to hesitate on the idea of resuming the infamous Slug Club again for fear of inciting further House division, and his blatant favoritism over fame. Hagrid continued Care of Magical Creatures, although Luna suggested to assist him during some classes in order to help the younger students adjust. Dawn Rheingold, the Auror previously tasked to Hogwarts, was elected as the new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. Although Harry was still slightly wary of Aurors due to their previous bad experiences with the rogue Death Eaters, the new Professor was knowledgeable, strict, and overbearing with a sarcastic streak that strangely reminded him of Severus.

Harry, Hermione, Ginny, Neville, and Luna hung out together during the school period, sadly missing Ron's company. They corresponded frequently to Ron, who updated them on his Auror training and how much he was learning. Although Harry still occasionally thought of becoming an Auror, for now, he was relieved he could tone the fighting down for a period of time, and still had hopes of later teaching at Hogwarts. The thought of a slightly less dangerous career path was very enticing to him, and he was okay with that. Neville even expressed his own wishes of teaching Herbology someday, which had Harry excited of the prospect to perhaps work as colleagues in a few years. That was enough of an incentive for Harry to make this last year count. Hermione on the other hand wanted to pursue a position at the Ministry and work her way up, and she could not be more perfect for the job. After all, Kingsley had already offered her a position under the Minister himself, and with some thought, Hermione happily took the offer. Ginny still didn't know exactly what she wanted to do, but finally settled on the idea of pursuing professional Quidditch for a while. Harry beamed at the thought and was immensely proud of her for continuing with the sport and wanted to allow her to have the limelight she deserved.

Despite offering for Severus to remain at Grimmauld Place, the man decided to pursue a property in the English countryside with assistance from Kingsley on behalf of the Ministry – with financial aid from Harry, although he didn't tell Severus that. After much discussion, Severus wanted to pursue a solitary life away for a while and test those waters now that his criminal charges were now clear, and he can roam as a free man. But since Harry would consider a teaching apprenticeship at Hogwarts, Severus felt it unnecessary to remain at Headquarters by himself anyhow. So, with the promise made by Harry as the mutual decision was made, Severus found a little cottage by a lake in the English countryside, with his own little greenhouse and garden to pursue his Potion's venture. Severus was in the process of revising the Potion's curriculum with the School Board, in addition to a healing potions module that the subject desperately needed. Additionally, Severus was on a respite of sorts, enjoying days where he wasn't demanded by Tom Riddle or even Order business that frequently resulted in him risking his life. Even though he despised the thought of doing nothing, Severus could finally have a chance to live without having to look over his shoulder undercover or face the constant mortal peril he used to find himself in on a daily basis.

As the school year progressed, Harry and Severus would exchange letters, keeping up with the contact as best as they could. Severus was more curious as to how Hogwarts was handling the new school year, and Harry was frequently asking how life in the countryside was now.

However, in the lead up to Christmas, there were a few weeks where Severus did not respond back to Harry's owl. Despite the Weasley's planning a large Christmas party, Molly was keen on inviting Severus over along with some of the other Order members. But neither of them heard back from him during the Christmas holidays.

Throwing on his large navy coat and maroon scarf, Harry Potter departed Grimmauld Place into the bitter English Winter afternoon and Disapparated away once he arrived at the small park across the road. Once he reappeared at the end of the cobblestone pathway at the tree line, he was hit by a blast of cold wind. Pulling his coat up closer to his neck under his grey scarf, he shivered as he glanced in the distance at the white stone cottage with a thatched roof almost two acres away from the Apparition border. The cobblestone path weaved around a small lake that was half-frozen and shimmering against the hillside backdrop. Surrounding the property were scattered hazel, alder, and oak trees providing enough density for the area to be a little more private and divisive of the neighbors in the far distance.

Harry made his way along the cobblestone path, taking in the fresh, yet frosty, air and the serenity of the area around him. It seemed peaceful, and given the cramped nature of Grimmauld Place, Harry couldn't help but feel a little jealous.

As he drew nearer towards the pristine cottage, Harry looked around to notice all the little changes that Severus made to it already, since he last visited here a few months prior before he started the school term. As the cottage loomed closer, Harry observed the white stone exterior remained in good condition, as the black windowsills made it look a little more charming than he last remembered it. Lining outside in the little garden area were blooming winter flowers such as camellias, poinsettias, cyclamen, and pansies – some had already grown to be vivid against the cold English countryside. Beside the quaint cottage, was a small glasshouse undoubtedly where Severus was likely producing his own herbal potion ingredients.

Once Harry finally reached the painted black oak door with the silver handle, he reached forward to knock, when the door swung open immediately, revealing Severus at the other side.

"Great timing – How did you know it was me?" Harry shivered.

Severus raised an eyebrow, "I heard you dragging your feet half a mile away."

"Everyone keeps saying that. You couldn't have placed the anti-Apparition barriers any further away? Blimey, I might have to place a spare broomstick there next time."

"Deal with it, " Severus motioned for Harry to enter through the door, "Get inside, quickly. I'd rather not have you frozen at my doorstep."

Not missing a beat, Harry scurried inside, feeling an instant warmth when Severus shut the door behind him. He could feel the fire in the living room before he saw it, and already Harry felt his face begin to defrost feeling a sense of relief of being safe inside from the breezy wintery afternoon. The interior also seemed to have some work done and had changed slightly since Harry last remembered when he assisted him to move in. The furniture wasn't exactly modern, but it looked rather cozy and homely. Something Grimmauld Place didn't have. The cottage was small, but not necessarily cramped. It had an upper floor with two bedrooms, complete with a tiny attic. Dark wooden furnishings, and yet devoured of any real color, but he didn't expect much from Severus Snape's decorative tastes.

Although Harry was surprised to discover that Severus had placed a small Christmas tree up in the corner by the window. The tree itself was considerably basic, with a few silver decorations. Nonetheless, Harry was shocked to see one.

Harry beamed, "…You actually placed a Christmas tree?"

"Why so surprised?"

Harry turned around to glare at Severus, "I just didn't think you'd feel festive enough for one."

"I figured I'd at least make the effort, considering I never anticipated to make it to the next."

Severus motioned for Harry to take a seat in the living room by the fire, which he gladly did as he still felt a mild chill. The older Slytherin seated himself in his own cushioned armchair. Severus was wearing a slightly more casual black suit, which was kept in good condition. But Harry wasn't so much transfixed with his attire, but more so his appearance. He looked…different. Relaxed. Brighter. Less stressed. It was a welcoming sight, although something Harry still needed to get used to seeing. Severus finally had some real color to his usually dull, gaunt cheeks, instead of the marble white, almost grey tinge, he adopted for months during his illness. He no longer wore a bandage plastered against his neck. Instead, Harry could see a heavily scarred wound but sealed. It still looked horrific, but it had healed enough to prevent any further problems he had faced when the curse was still upon him. But Harry also noticed that Severus was no longer looking frail, and thin that had alarmed him prior. It seemed he was regaining his appetite, and energy, to a healthy degree. Although the man still appeared stern, the softness in his face told him that he was beginning to find the silver lining and refocused his efforts to rebuild his life. That alone made Harry feel very reassured.

"You could have at least owled me back. Molly has been bugging me every week about having you over for Christmas dinner tomorrow, " Harry said.

Severus frowned, "Stop worrying. You'll get wrinkles faster."

"You don't reply for weeks on end, and you tell me not to worry? Please, join us tomorrow."

"I'm not certain being surrounded by people is a wise idea for myself just yet, " Severus raised an eyebrow, "Can't a man finally enjoy some solitude?"

Harry couldn't help but sigh, "I know, I just…wanted to check-in. Nothing wrong with that, is there? I just wanted to know if things are…okay."

"As manageable as it can be."

"Manageable? Oh, come on. Surely you are at least a little relieved?"

"Of course, I'm relieved, " Severus waved his hand, slightly irked, "Things are a little less weight to bear now, and I'm relishing in the respite. However, on that subject, at least you no longer have Riddle's soul clawing at your mind. If I ever hear you speaking Parstelmouth again, I might lose it completely."

Harry cracked a grin, "I'm sure you'll be the first to know."

Severus glared dangerously at Harry, "I most certainly will not. Next time harass Professor McGonagall about it. She can take the reins on that from now on."

Harry smirked, "So, you're completely done with me? I don't blame you, really."

Severus paused, looking amused, "Not likely."

Harry leaned back in his chair, "You could have stayed at Grimmauld Place with me over Christmas, you know."

Severus pursed his lips, "Three months stuck together under the same roof was not enough?"

Harry threw a hand up, "Oh, come on, you know it wasn't that bad. It was, good, even. I just didn't want you by yourself for Christmas."

"I'll manage, " Severus spoke slowly.

"You keep saying that, but are you, really?"

"Yes. I am. Better than I have done in an exceedingly long time, Harry. Peaceful is…A measure of reprieve, " Severus gave a slight pause, looking thoughtful, " I don't have Death Eater colleagues clawing at my doorstep, or Order members demanding my attention only to continue their verbal mistrust in me, or even students getting into unnecessary mischief at ungodly hours of the night. "

"So, it wasn't just me, then?"

Severus glared back at Harry, but he did detect some amusement within the man's face, "The whole world doesn't revolve around you, Potter."

"Well, it kind of did?" Harry smirked, "And Potter? I haven't heard that one in a while. Sounds strange now, coming from you."

"It does indeed seem like another lifetime ago, does it not?" Severus' gaze softened, as his tone lowered, "Now tell me – how are your studies?"

Harry shrugged, "Oddly normal. Whatever normal is any more. It's nice to not have a dark wizard try and kill me by the end of the year."

Severus gave a light snort, "It's nice to not have to follow your breadcrumb trail to keep you out of danger. I do hope your defense professor is competent enough for the task of educating you and not a blubbering fool."

Harry chuckled, "It's fine. Professor Rheingold is actually really good. She's very blunt and to the point – You'd approve of her methods. Although, it should have been you teaching this year."

"I stand by my decision. Though I suppose, if your professor turns into another imposter, I could fill in. I'm sure the Headmistress will harass me again about it next year."

Harry smiled curiously, "…You miss teaching, don't you? I thought you hated the idea of going back?"

Severus looked slightly annoyed with the idea, "I do…And I did. I suppose after teaching for seventeen years, it develops a tough routine to break. Perhaps things could be different without me having to look over my shoulder every second of the day and wondering which Death Eater meeting would be my last. Regardless, I was asked to become a Potioneer for St. Mungo's, which I begin in the new year. A new venture, which also gives me the opportunity to work from my own residence. Draco is keen to assist me, which will also help him to keep his mind off things."

Harry felt excited by that, "That's really great to hear. St. Mungo's will be lucky to have you there."

"They are keen regarding my propositions for new and improved healing potions. I suppose I have that blasted curse to thank for that, " Severus leaned forward within his chair, "So, tell me about this supposed task Kingsley enlisted to you? Your previous letter was annoyingly vague."

Harry appeared bored with the answer itself, "The Ministry wants me to do a talk at the American school. I really don't want to go."

"No merit for extra fame? You're hardly your father's son."

Harry shrugged casually, "I just don't want to make a big deal of it."

Severus tilted his head to the side, "Did you expect your fame to die down? Don't be so daft."

"Well…Yeah, I did, actually. Maybe living a solitary life doesn't seem like a bad idea now. I envy you."

Severus pursed his lips, "You shouldn't. I realise I've not been responding as timely as I'd hoped recently, but I still have several things I must work on. Personally."

"It's fine, really. I get it. Probably because I'm sending you too much – sorry about that. I just…never really had this, " Harry bit his lip. He didn't mean to feel a little reliant, but he missed someone to communicate with outside of school. It used to be Sirius before his untimely death, and that struck quite a grief-stricken blow upon Harry when he was taken away from him. But now that he had Severus, he felt like he finally had someone he could really rely on again, and he didn't want to lose that this time. He very much valued this new connection, and he wanted to hold onto it as best as he could.

"…I need to do better, " Severus paused to observe Harry, with a sad smile.

Harry shook his head, "You already are, sir."

Severus looked unconvinced, as he looked down upon his own hands, "…I'm not good at this."

"Well, neither am I. That makes two of us."

"Regardless of my poor communication attempts, I am…content as I am now. I'm happy with…this."

"Happy?" Harry smiled, "That's really great to hear, sir. I'm…glad. I'm glad things are looking up."

For the first time, there was a smile from Severus. A genuine, warm smile that Harry had never really witnessed before. A smile more full of life and hope, that it almost caught Harry himself off-guard. It warmed his heart to see, and Harry couldn't be happier to have witnessed something so rare.

They made it. They survived.

And most importantly, they had each other to make it through.

"…Yes. Indeed, they are."

++ End ++