Quite Merciful[1]
Severus is mixing a remedy for migraines, while his son is taking inventory, one shelf, one drawer, one box, one glass, one phial after the other. Painstakingly, the Muggle way.
After working for an hour, Elyan grimaces and stretches. ‘Dad, is that really necessary? I’m of age! I’ve passed my NEWTs. I really can do magic now.’
Severus looks up and observes his son in a bemused fashion. When has he grown so tall? How is it possible that Elyan will start his apprenticeship with the St Mungo’s Potions Master in September? Or, for that matter — Severus still doesn’t know whether to laugh or cry or tear out his hair — since when is bitty Branwen old enough to fall in love? And with Albus Potter of all people. The Gods must be mocking him.
Raising an eyebrow, he looks down his long nose at his son, who’s won the genetic lottery and escaped that feature, unlike his younger sister.
‘You know what your mother said,’ Severus replies.
Elyan rolls his eyes at that cheap subterfuge. ‘Mother’s merciless,’ he complains.
But Severus shakes his head.
‘On the contrary,’ he says with a soft smile, ‘Hermione has a good deal of mercy.’[2]
[1] Textual allusion to “The Assistant Producer” in “Nabokov’s Dozen” by Vladimir Nabokov.
[2] Ibid.
I had planned to write my comments for this act at the end, but this chapter is so sweet and so well written, I had to tell you. The evolution of Severus Snape from fellow outcast to reluctant housemate to surprised lover is beautifully chronicled. Well done!
Beth
The way you write of the love between Hermione and Severus is so gentle yet they are both very much in character. I like it very uch.
Beth
I’m glad that they have found such happiness in the world they have built for themselves. That they have a son and daughter is especially sweet.
Beth
“Harry refuses to accept it was too late even before their seven years were over. He vows to move heaven and earth to find a cure.”
This sounds ominous. Does it mean that the seven years of exile was actually a death sentence? How damned sad. But so beautifully written, Juno.
Beth
Where is Hermione? Has she already died? How is it that you can write such bittersweet prose, yet make my heart glad for them at the same time.
Love is like that, yes.
Beth
Oh, my word! This journey has been one of healing and crying and giving thanks for the blessings that were granted and railing against the ones that were not granted. But I’ll wager that the fulfilling life that Hermione and Severus Snape made for themselves and their children was more perfect than any of their magical contemporaries were able to make for themselves.
This is why you are a master, Juno, pure and simple. Thank you for this. I have loved every page!
Warmest regards,
Beth
Another amazing story.