Title: Part of Your World
Author: knightmare (all lowercase, please)
Rating: NC-17
Pairing: Severus/Harry
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoat Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Feedback: yes, please! At knightmare3099@yahoo.com
Beta: Eeyore, VL Red Reign, and mimiheart
Archive: Part of the From Dusk till Dawn Severus Snape/Harry Potter Fuh-Q-Fest
at http://www.kardasi.com/HPSS/storyindex.htm
Challenge: Time Challenge ~ Having taken the fall for a failed coup attempt by Lords Malfoy and Riddle, Severus is sent to the colonies as punishment. Once there, his past comes back to haunt him, as he is drawn to his former lover's son.

The sound of birds calling filled the air, and a soft spray of seawater misted the face of the stoic man standing at the rail. The irritating chatter of his fellow passengers surrounded him, adding to the chaos as they reached their destination.

Severus Snape was not a happy man. Far from it, in fact, far from it. For him to have been even reasonably content, he would have to be home, his feet on solid ground, safe in his laboratory, brewing to his heart's content. There, he would have been surrounded by the scents and sounds of London, vile though some of them might be, not here on this infernal ship, rocking with every wave.

Squinting in the morning light, trying to make out the town, he disdainfully ignored the excited shouts and frantic activity around him as the crew prepared the ship for landing. The New World filled his horizon, lush and green, inviting and beautiful. It was enough to make him sick.

With a sigh, he went below deck to pack the few belongings of his that were not secured in the hold.

~*~

Soft hands and a softer voice. Cool, soothing, and welcome to the child who thrashed on the bed in fever. She cried out, the pain worse than anything she'd ever felt in her young life.

Those gentle hands lifted her head and the voice coaxed her to drink. She did, and soon, the pain started to go away, fading. She opened bleary eyes, blinking, seeing only bright eyes and a warm smile before sleep overtook her, and she drifted off.

~*~

“Master Snape!”

Severus turned to glare at the young man who called his name. “It is Doctor Snape, if you please,” he growled, noting with satisfaction that the boy flushed. Whether it was in anger or shame, Severus couldn't tell, but peevishly, he felt better for having caused the boy some discomfort.

“Pardon me, Doctor Snape, I meant no offence. I'm Jonathon, sir.” The boy motioned to his bags, and Severus nodded, watching as he picked a few up. “Father sent me for you. He said to bring you right away, as you will be staying at our house.”

“Indeed?”

“Father is pleased you've decided to join the town. We've been building your own house, but it's not quite finished yet. I've been watching for you since early this morning.”

Severus followed the boy through the narrow village. Modest timber-framed houses and fragrant raised-bed gardens were enclosed within a stout wooden palisade. The houses were in neat rows, almost all of them tiny, one room affairs, simple and plain. The townsfolk either called out a welcome or eyed him warily as he passed by Severus felt the same wariness, thrust into this savage land as he was. It had not been his choice to leave England for the colonies, nor was he pleased about the situation.

They entered the home, a rather grand one by the standards set here in this small town Severus supposed, but poor in his estimation. A dirt floor was suitably clean and swept, and wooden furniture glowed in the morning light streaming in the open door and windows. A large bed dominated the side wall, almost completely concealed by a red hanging, and pallets were rolled neatly and placed against the wall at the foot of the bed. Shelves lined with pottery, plates, and drying herbs hung from the bottoms were placed here and there, as well as one or two hangings to brighten the room. A small ladder led to a second story, not more than a loft, Severus guessed. He certainly hoped they did not intend for him to sleep up there.

Across from the master bed was the hearth, with a long, wooden table nearby. A portly, dark-haired woman was working at the table, coated in flour as she kneaded bread. Looking up, she wiped her hands off on a towel and came forward.

“Severus, I'm so pleased you are here.”

“I hardly had a choice, now did I, Amaris?” Severus' eyebrow lifted as he shot a sardonic glance at his cousin, who had the good grace to flush.

“You will come to realise life is easier for you here, Severus,” Amaris said softly. She watched as her son placed Severus' things down. “Off with you now, and get the rest of his belongings from the ship. Take James with you.”

“James?”

“Oh, I know how you feel about the name,” Amaris said, winding her arm in her cousin's, “but my husband has no idea about that part of my life, and he won't. You must forget about Hogwarts, Severus, and all the torments you endured there. James Potter is no longer a part of your life.”

“He set sail immediately after school; they all did. How can you say they are gone, when I might run into them here?”

“Severus, at some point you must let go. Lily and James fell in love and married. It's been eighteen years of you burying yourself in your potions. Can you not find a way to live now?”

“By hiding myself, as you have done? Denying my magic?”

“Don't speak of such things,” Amaris hissed. “You will find a new beginning here, Severus. The people here are simple, God-fearing people. You just have to be careful.”

“I have no desire to live as a Muggle!”

“Michael!” Amaris gave Severus an angry look as she called out for her youngest. “You will not say anything more, Severus. It is simply too dangerous. You had a choice, and you made it. Please, find a way to be at peace with that choice. Now, Michael will guide you, so you can bathe and change out of those filthy clothes, and bring you back here. Severus, you must face reality. Your days as a wizard are over.”

Severus said nothing, his scowl firmly set as he waited for the young brat.

~*~

Numpakou slipped through the trees, silent and cautious, skirting the forest next to the village. Another large boat filled with Wautaconuoag had come in today, giving rise to the need for extra care. Numpakou had been forbidden from the beginning from the village the coat-men lived in. His Sachem had ordered him to remain out of sight, telling him that the coat-men would not understand and would want to hurt him. He tried to obey, knew it was right to. And he would have obeyed, if it were not for Hermione.

Numpakou had snuck to the village one day, eager to see what was so forbidden, wanting to prove that he was brave enough to face the danger the village represented. He'd found Hermione, hurt and crying, beside the river. Even though he knew it was forbidden, he had healed her and swore her to secrecy. That was the beginning of a friendship, one that had lasted five years. He had wondered at first if Hermione accepted him so easily why the others wouldn't, but had seen first hand how the white men of the village treated those who were different in any way, and so, other than his friendship with Hermione, he'd stayed out of sight.

Except when someone was extremely ill. Hermione had only asked him a few times, and usually with children, but when she did, he answered. She'd smuggle him into the village to heal, and if he had to, he'd make the person forget. She never questioned how he did what he did, and he was glad. The only answer he could have given her was that the spirits had gifted him with these abilities, and he used them according to their wishes. He'd done that just last night, in fact, healing a small girl who'd had the burning sickness.

His footsteps slowed as he approached his favourite destination. A small, secluded pond, sheltered by fragrant pine trees and fed by a tiny waterfall that flowed from the main river, it was his chosen spot to bathe and relax. Loud splashing let him know someone else had found out about his pond.

Carefully, he moved forward, peering around a large tree, hidden by the long branches that bowed low, sweeping the ground. His breath caught, and he could feel the flush of warmth below as he watched the pale man in the water. Numpakou's gaze ran along his body as he broke through the surface and stood, stretching up to smooth his hair back from his face, wiping the water away.

Numpakou shrank back against the tree, ignoring the throbbing, the desire that ran through him. This pale man wasn't beautiful, not compared to those that Numpakou had already shared passion with. His nose was large, his expression dour, his skin very pale and criss-crossed with scars, and he was thin and lean, but he was compelling, and there was something about him that drew the boy. He snuck forward again, parting the boughs, watching the man walk out of the water. Rivulets of water ran down his lean form, and Numpakou's eyes were drawn to his semi hard cock. He felt his own body responding. It had been so long since he'd enjoyed being taken, far too long. There weren't any warriors in his clan who were interested; his last night had been spent with a neighbouring warrior. Licking his lips, he crouched down to see what this pale man would do.

Severus found a flat rock by the shore and spread out his wet shirt, sitting on it on the rock. The water rushed around his legs and thighs, and he braced his arms behind him, tilting his head to the sun. He didn't often get out; potion making meant long hours in a dungeon, but that did not mean he didn't enjoy the outdoors. He finally felt almost human now that he was clean. He knew the Muggles didn't hold to the same ideas of cleanliness as wizard folk did, and found it simply disgusting.

He rubbed his neck, allowing his hand to drift lower, and with a smirk, decided to indulge himself. There had been a stunning boy on the trip over—upper class and beyond Severus' reach, of course, but desirable all the same. Severus had not let on that he'd even noticed the boy; after all, it was hazardous for one of his proclivities to become known to the common populace. Almost as dangerous as being found out as a wizard.

He frowned, truly despising these Muggles for their hateful attitudes. Lord Malfoy had been wrong in his methods, following that fool of a half-breed Riddle, but he'd been correct in his ideals; the Muggles were too restrictive for wizardkind and were dangerous. Defiantly, knowing what those in the village would think of what he was doing, he let the image of that boy spread underneath him, eager and willing, enter his mind as he lightly ran a finger up his now rising cock.

Pausing just long enough to grasp his wand and throw up some charms for privacy and protection, Severus began to tease his own flesh, his hands wandering over his body.

Numpakou was speechless. He'd done that —so many times it made him embarrassed to admit it, but the stick! The man had simply picked up the stick and then he'd done magic, such as Numpakou did. And so easily! It wasn't difficult for Numpakou to use his powers, but it took time and proper rituals. This man had just waved a stick and done it.

He moved closer, wanting to look at that stick. The man was caught up in what he was doing. His breathing was coming in gasps and pants now, and he moaned, a low, delicious sound that made Numpakou hungry for another's touch. Unable to stop himself, he glanced up, watching as the pale man came, watching his face twist in a grimace of pleasure as he shot string after string of the white essence on his stomach. Moving back when he saw the man going for the stick, he carelessly stepped on a bit of brush, causing the tree branches to shift.

Severus reached for his wand. Hearing something out of place, he froze, for the first time realizing that someone was inside his wards. His eyes darted back and forth, searching, and that was how he caught the movement in a large pine tree. He jerked his trousers on and moved forward, wand out, as he held out one hand to move the branches. The boughs on the other side of the tree were waving; obviously someone or something had just darted through them. Severus searched the ground for some sort of sign, needing to know if it was just an animal, and therefore harmless, or something more sinister that he needed to look out for.

He relaxed, but only slightly, when he saw indication of someone having been there, but not the blatant signs that would be evident had it been one of the villagers. He knew there were savages in the forest, so he surmised that it was one of them who'd spied on him. That meant he was somewhat safe and protected. It was unlikely that the villagers would believe a savage's tale of magic and debauchery.

Deciding to let it lie, he backed away from the tree and finished dressing.

~*~

Severus lay on his pallet, staring up at the ceiling, contemplating the hell that was now his life. He'd had it all, for just a shining moment, there within his grasp, and with one wrong step, it had been jerked from him. Now he was trapped here, in this god-forsaken, pitiful excuse of a town.

His mistake, he supposed, was by allowing himself to follow the wrong sort—namely Lord Malfoy and his snivelling brat of a son. Best laid plans and all that. He sighed and turned on his side. Banished, forbidden to use magic, not that he was obeying that order, and sent to live in the colonies, and all because his ‘friend' had laid the blame of a failed attempt at power squarely at his feet.

He was resigned to his fate. Not accepting, because there was precious little to be happy about here, but resigned. He'd spent over a week here already and was eagerly waiting for his own house to be finished. He'd been told it would be within days, for which he was thankful. As it was, his cousin was grating on his nerves with her constant preaching about repaying his debt and serving the community. Wasn't he doing that already? Hadn't he agreed to serve as a doctor to these imbeciles? He sighed, wondering if he'd get any sleep this night.

A knock at the door interrupted his musings and he climbed off his pallet, frowning and moving quickly to answer. A young boy stood there, in night clothes with a coat thrown hastily over, carrying a lantern.

“Mother asked me to come, sir, please! My sister, she's got the fever.”

“What is it?” Amaris asked from behind Severus.

“A sick child.” Severus dug through his things, looking for the simple bag he carried his potions in.

“Severus.”

He looked up into Amaris' eyes, hearing the censure in her voice. “I will do what I can to save the child, Amaris. No matter what.”

She frowned, having already given many lectures about using his potions and brews, and the inherent danger in doing so. He brushed past her and followed the boy, shutting the door firmly behind him.

“When did your sister become ill?” he asked, walking alongside the boy.

“This morning, and she is much worse. Sarah Gosnold was sick this week; Chastity played with her not two days ago. Sarah got well very fast, though.”

“How so?”

“Hermione won't say.”

“Hermione is?”

“My older sister. She thinks she knows everything.” The boy sounded so aggrieved that Severus had to hide a snort of laughter. He'd met far too many women like that, irritating busybodies who did not know their place. “Here it is, sir.”

Severus stepped into the house, immediately drawn to the small child lying in the master bed. After shooing away the worried mother, he sat on the side of the bed, pressing his hand against her cheek, before touching her forehead with his fingertips. Turning to face the boy, he frowned.

“What sort of joke is this? Did you find it amusing to pull me from my slumber for nothing?”

“Nothing? My child is ill!” The mother moved closer, frowning.

“She has no fever. See for yourself.”

She did, crying out when she realized her daughter was cool to the touch.

“Have you been in this room, all this time?”

“No.” She shook her head. “I sent Josiah out after you, and then went to fetch my husband. He is in the barn; we have a mare foaling, and it's a difficult birth.”

“Either your child was not sick to begin with, or something has happened to break the fever. Where is your other child? Hermione, you said her name was?” he asked the boy who nodded.

“In bed.”

“Fetch her.”

“Josiah?”

The boy ran up the ladder, returning in just a few moments, followed by a young woman, not far out of childhood. Her brown hair was braided tightly down the back of her head, and she had a blanket clutched tightly around her, covering her clothing. Severus spotted stockings on her feet and a glimpse of a simply spun dress, and it was apparent she was not in night clothes. He looked expectantly at her. She flushed and gave him a defiant look, pulling the blanket tighter around her.

“Your sister is no longer feverish.”

“Then we thank you, kind sir, for helping her,” Hermione replied evenly.

“Might I have a word with your daughter in private?” Severus asked, knowing that what he was asking wasn't proper. “I assure you,” he rushed to say, cutting off the protest already forming, “that we will stand just outside your door, in full view the entire time.”

“Is it not something that you can say in front of me?” her mother asked, glancing between the two.

“It is delicate in nature and your young son…”

“Very well.”

Nodding to the woman, acknowledging her reluctance, he escorted the young girl outside.

“Now, Miss…?”

“Granger, sir.”

“Let us dispense with the usual foolishness. Your sister was healed. How?”

“I don't know what you are talking about.”

“Do not lie to me, child,” Severus growled, stepping closer. The girl paled but stood her ground. “That girl did not heal by herself, nor did the fever miraculously go away. How was she cured?”

“I… if they know…”

“I will not say, child, but I must know. And do not attempt to tell me a falsehood again; I know when I am being lied to.” He held her gaze as he said this, watching with satisfaction as her brown eyes widened.

“A friend comes, when I need it.”

“A friend,” he repeated in a flat voice. To have the child healed within moments, it had to be magic. If there was another wizard or witch here, he needed to know. He could hide what he was doing from his cousin, but someone else could report him.

She flushed, dropping her eyes. “From the Indians. I have a friend who comes when I ask and somehow heals. I don't ask how, and I don't tell anyone.”

“This friend of yours will visit no longer. I will not have my patients meddled with by some savage with barbaric methods. Chants and incense will not cure anything!”

“Numpakou cured my sister; can you deny that?”

“Watch your tongue, girl, before it earns you punishment. You are now dependant on my charity, which I am not known for. You do wish me to keep my peace about this secret of yours?”

“You said you wouldn't tell.”

“Perhaps I lied,” Severus said, smirking. He sighed when the girl started tearing up. God protect him from hysterical women; it was something he simply couldn't abide. “Return to your home. I will say nothing, but I repeat; tell your ‘friend' to stay away from my patients!”

He turned away then, leaving her. A wasted trip, pulled from his bed for no reason! He scowled as he walked back to his cousin's. He simply couldn't allow this usurper to interfere. He needed the villagers to depend on him.

He knew he should return to the house, but he couldn't sleep. He hadn't been able to before and didn't anticipate falling into slumber being any easier now. He found his feet straying towards the forest; a dip in that pond would be welcome about now. He hated that he had to sneak out at night just to enjoy his time in the water. After casting multiple wards and Aversion Charms, he was also using the area to brew until he could set up a proper area in his new home, and he even had to sneak away for that purpose. He longed for the freedom to be who he was, without all the secrecy.

He sighed, glad that the Muggles were oblivious as a general rule to most of the world around them. So far, none had noticed that he'd been slipping away or where his ‘tinctures' and cures came from.

He pushed aside the pine boughs that formed the edge of his wards, feeling the tingle as he crossed them. Pulling his wand, he set wizard lights scurrying to circle the water, and began to strip. He placed his wand down and started for the water, eager now to swim.

He couldn't tell what it was that caught his attention, or made him realize that he was no longer alone, but he whirled just in time to see a figure darting towards the edge of the small clearing. He snatched his wand, throwing an Impedimenta. He smirked when what he supposed was a girl went down, deciding by the slim shape and the long flowing hair. Unconcerned about his own nudity, he stalked over to the interloper, and after freeing the brat from the spell, wrapped one hand in the thick, black hair, the other around a slim arm, and jerked his prisoner to her feet. The skins and furs the girl had been clutching fell to the ground, and as skin met skin, Severus realized his prisoner was nude.

Most definitely not female , he thought, as he put his arms around the boy to keep them both steady and standing. With one arm around the youth's waist, he swept his hair back, and was startled to find himself staring into emerald green eyes, set in a very handsome, darkly tanned face.

Numpakou couldn't believe his bad luck. He'd finished healing Hermione's sister and had come to his pond to enjoy a swim before going back to his village. He'd been upset to find out that the man had invaded this area more than once and had practically claimed it with something that made his skin crawl when he entered the clearing. He had even left various bits of metal lying about. Numpakou had investigated them, but finding them boring, he'd stripped and slipped into the water, never imagining that the man would show up.

He stared into the dark eyes of the man who held him and pushed against him. Severus gripped him tightly, winding his hand in the boy's hair and holding his head steady. Numpakou refused to make a sound, but his cheeks were flushed, and his eyes showed his anger quite plainly.

“Do you speak English? Are you that friend of Miss Granger's?”

He thought about not answering, but the hand in his hair tightened, and he tipped his head back slightly, trying to ease some of the pressure. Severus' gaze was drawn to the long stretch of neck, and he wasn't oblivious to the lithe body pressed against his own. He ignored his rising erection and tugged on the hair, wanting an answer.

“Yes, I speak your tongue. And yes, Hermione is my friend.”

“You're the one. How do you heal those people?”

“Let me go.”

“I don't think so,” Severus said, pulling the boy even closer against him. He could feel the responding hardness now, and he shifted with a smirk, taking delight in the small gasp that resulted.

“Would you be improper?”

“And how do you know what is proper and what is not?”

“Hermione told me.” Numpakou closed his eyes, wishing that his body would behave and that his arousal wasn't so painfully evident. It was simply the thrill of physical contact, he was sure, and if he'd been pressed against any man, he'd have the same reaction.

“Answer my question, little one, and I'll let you go.”

“The spirits help me heal them.”

“How?”

“I call upon them, and they move through me.”

“And your potions?”

“Potions?” Numpakou bit back a groan as the man shifted again. He gave a small squawk of surprise when he was lifted bodily, and the man walked towards the pond. “Let me go!”

“I'm tired of standing. I intended to swim, and I'm not done with you yet. Now, stop that squirming, or I shall give you something to squirm about.”

Numpakou glared at his captor, but didn't resist as they entered the water. He tried once more to get away, jumping up in the water to kick at the man. Severus growled and, grasping the long hair again, dunked the brat under the water.

Numpakou came up sputtering, wiping water from his face. He was panting, half from anger, half from the dunking. With a grin, Severus jerked him close once more.

“Answer my question, and you can go free. I truly don't wish to harm you.”

“You're holding me against my wishes.” Numpakou sighed, seeing no way out of this. He couldn't overpower the man. “I do not understand ‘potions'.”

“It's simple,” Severus said. He cupped the boy's chin, tilting his face up. “A potion is a liquid, brewed from ingredients. They perform various functions, usually supplanting a spell.”

“I don't do that. I simply heal.”

Severus frowned, considering this. The boy was magical, there was no doubt about that. He also was no born savage, not with those green eyes. Thoughtfully, he released the boy's waist and lifted the long hair, pulling it sharply back from the slim, angular face. Surprisingly, there was no resistance to this, and Numpakou stood completely still as Severus stared at him.

“Potter.” The resemblance was uncanny with the hair pulled back. Numpakou gave him a questioning look, not liking his harsh tone at all. “You look just like him. And your eyes…” So like Evans' own emerald ones.

“My true parents died when I was young. My clan took me in, raised me. All they could tell me was that my parents were English, but they knew little else.”

“You're free to go.” Severus pushed away, unaccountably angry now. He closed his eyes, the pain flaring yet again as the memory of that horrible day, the day he realized that James would choose Evans over him, rose unbidden. He had known his chances were slim. Not only was a relationship like theirs not accepted, but James had wanted a family, and no amount of magic could allow Severus to give him that. The knowledge did nothing to lessen the pain, however.

“Who is Potter? Do you know who my parents are?” Numpakou stepped forward, his hand hesitantly touching the man's shoulder.

“No. Leave, this instant.”

Numpakou bit his lip, wanting to stay and ask questions. His father had never held any information back from him, but there wasn't much information to be had. The fact that this man might know something was tantalizing. Slowly, Numpakou climbed out of the pond and went to gather his clothing.

He slid on his skirt and mantle, pulling on his leggings to protect against brambles. He turned back, to say something, only to find the man watching him.

Severus' gaze travelled hungrily down the long line of the boy's body. He wasn't sure what to feel now. Here was solid proof of James' love for Evans, thrown right in his face. The fact that he was extremely attracted to the boy was not lessened one whit by the knowledge that he was James' son. And to know that James was gone…

“Stay out of the village,” Severus ordered. “Leave them to my care. They are my responsibility now.”

“Hermione is my friend…”

“An improper friendship, at best,” Severus cut in. He turned his back and slid under the water.

Numpakou sighed and left the clearing, very unsettled. He paid no mind to where he was walking; his feet knew the path back to his home. He came out of the forest and approached the palisade, giving a short nod to the pniese who guarded the gate. The village was dotted with small huts, wetus, where individual families lived and shared longhouses. Dogs lifted sleepy heads to stare at him as he passed, but the village was quiet in the evening, still and sleepy. The faint scent of smoke tinged the air, and Numpakou could even smell the remains of stew, bread, and roasted corn that had made dinner for the village that night.

His family did not live in their own wetu, but shared a longhouse with other families. He entered his home, startled to see his father up and tending a small fire, but comforted by the welcoming smile on his father's face. After taking off his moccasinash, he settled on the ground and took the cup of water Mishitashin offered him.

“And where have you been?” he asked, brushing a wet lock of hair back from his son's face.

“I went to my pond,” Numpakou answered. He was quiet, staring into the fire, resting his chin on his drawn up knees.

“Something is bothering you?”

“I met a coat-man who said he knew my parents.”

“You spoke to a coat-man?” Mishitashin tilted his son's face up, staring into his eyes. “Numpakou, that is very dangerous. They do not understand our ways.”

Numpakou sighed, thinking of the man, and his attraction to him, being barred from the coat-men village because he was two-spirit, and the apparent lack of men in the village who were interested. “Why is it so hard to follow the path of Nanepaushat?”

“The moon has chosen you, Numpakou. We knew this would be so for a long time. When most boys looked at the young keegsquaws, and were plotting how best to win one for a wife, you were looking at the young boys.”

Numpakou flushed at his father's chuckle.

“I'm pleased to be who I am, Father, I truly am. I am happy that I can serve my clan and my people with my magic. But, the coat-men…”

“Bah. The coat-men live shut up in those tiny houses, and it makes their minds tiny as well. They can not see past their own beliefs. I would not wonder if everything about them were as small as their minds.”

“Not everything ,” Numpakou said, face burning as he remembered being pressed against the man. He could feel his body responding to the memory and flushed harder.

“Oh, is that how it is?” His father laughed and tugged on a lock of his hair. “Did you enjoy the size of your pale man's knife?”

“Father!”

Mishitashin laughed harder, and motioned toward their cots. “Bed, for you, youngling. You've work to do in the morning.”

“I need to speak to Mishaupen tomorrow.”

“In the afternoon, I think. He's working with the hunting party to ensure a good hunt. I'll tell him you wish to talk to him.”

“Thank you.”

Numpakou crawled onto his cot, pulling the skins and furs up to cover him. He lay on his back, staring at the thatched roof. The memory of the mysterious man filled his thoughts, and he fought to not touch himself. He was tempted by the hint of information as well, and wondered if he could get the man to talk about his parents.

Sighing, he turned over and tried to go to sleep.

Wampanoag terms:

Numpakou ~ Jewel; Wautaconuoag ~ coat-men; name for the Englishmen; Sachem ~ leader; pniese ~ warrior; wetu ~ hut, home; Mishitashin ~ storm; two-spirit ~ homosexual men and women. The person would dress as, live as, and in all respects, act as a member of the opposite sex. Considered magical and sacred, they were treated with respect and often acted as medicine men; keegsquaws ~ young women; Nanepaushat ~ Moon God; Mishaupen ~ great wind

{End Chapter One…..}

Chapter Two:

Numpakou woke the next morning as his father and brother joined the other men leaving the longhouse, to meet before the hunt. He slipped from bed, dressing in the pale grey light of predawn, and went outside.

The men wouldn't eat before they left; hunting on an empty stomach made one sharper, more fierce. He watched silently as Mishaupen cast his magic, asking the gods for a successful hunt. When the men came back, they would offer thanks to the animal spirits that had given of themselves.

The women began to stir as well and, when all were up and had broken their fast, went about their work. Numpakou gathered a group of small children and women his own age, and with him leading the laughing troupe, they entered the forest. One of the keegsquaws had found a large berry patch, and they were going to gather the ripe berries.

Baskets loaded, sun-warmed and full from eating almost as many berries as they'd put in their baskets, the tired and sticky group walked back at midday.  Numpakou left his companions to finish their task; some of the fruit would be dried, and some would be cooked, or set aside to eat almost immediately.  Numpakou took a small basket full of the ripest berries for Mishaupen, making his way to the shaman's wetu.

He entered, offering the basket of berries.  His teacher smiled widely and accepted the basket, gesturing for him to sit.

“So, what brings you here today?  I thought you were going to help your mother with the baskets?” 

Numpakou flushed at the raised eyebrow and nodded.  “I'm still going to help her, Mishaupen, but I wanted to ask you about something that happened.”

“Go on,” Mishaupen said, sitting down across from Numpakou, and handing him a small basket with precious quahog beads.  Numpakou had a particular talent for the fine detail work of stringing them, and together they were creating a belt for the Sachem.

“There was a man in the village,” Numpakou said, carefully not looking at Mishaupen as he went to work.  “He was at my pond when I went there to swim.  I was going to leave, when he…”

“Yes?”  Mishaupen wondered exactly what had happened to cause that deep a blush on Numpakou's cheeks.

Pushing aside the memory of that day, and how the man had pleasured himself, Numpakou continued.  “He did things, magic.  And he used a stick.” He decided not to mention how attracted he was to the man, or how he'd dreamed of him the night before and even now was almost consumed by thoughts of him.

“A stick?”

“Yes, he waved it and said words and the magic happened.  He didn't ask the spirits, or do the proper rituals… he just waved his stick.”

“There is more?”

“He called me Potter.”  Numpakou looked up then, meeting Mishaupen's eyes.  “I think he knew my parents.”  He took a deep breath.  “I want to talk to him.  I want to find out how his stick works.  I want to know about my parents.” I want to kiss him , he added silently, remembering the strong arms around him, the deep, commanding voice that sent a thrill through him.

“Do you think you could use such a stick?”

“I don't know.  It doesn't seem right to use magic without proper thanks.”

“We thank the animals for sustaining us. We thank the plants, and the mother earth, for giving us food.  The waters that flow, the rain, the wind, all these things provide for us, and we must honour them properly.  This man with this stick does not do this.  He may anger the manitous.”

“Should I tell him?”

“It is not his way, child.  Perhaps, had you been raised by the white men, you, too, would wave a stick and use the magic without giving thanks.  But we were lucky enough to know you, and I think it is better.  Do you?”

Numpakou nodded, smiling.  He couldn't imagine growing up anywhere else, without parents, without the love of his family.  “Should I ask him about this Potter?”

“That is a decision you must make for yourself.  Do you think this man will answer you?”

“I'm not sure.  Maybe if I help him?”

“And how will you do this?”

“I don't know.  I think I'm going to try.”  Both looked up as the sound of Numpakou's mother calling drew their attention.  “I guess I need to go.”

“You can help me with this later,” Mishaupen said, taking the wampum back.  “The Sachem won't need it until the season turns again.”

“Thank you.”  Numpakou walked out of the wetu, looking for his mother.

~*~

Numpakou slipped through the forest silently. He approached his pond cautiously, half hoping, half afraid his pale man would be there. Pushing the pine boughs to the side, he felt a stab of disappointment when he realised the area was empty. A small metal pot hung over a fire, and steam rose from it. Curious, Numpakou moved forward, peering into it.

“What do you think you are doing? Get away from that!”

Numpakou jumped back, smacking right into Severus, who once more found himself holding them both up and steady. He tightened his grip when Numpakou started to struggle and turned the boy in his arms.

“I was just curious,” Numpakou said, sullenly, going still.

“Curiosity will land you in trouble,” Severus answered. “I believe I told you to stay away.”

“No, you said I couldn't go into the village. This isn't the village.” Of course, he didn't intend to obey about the village, but there was no need to say that.

Severus shifted slightly, brushing a lock of hair off Numpakou's face, tracing his cheeks. It was almost an ache, looking at him, seeing his former lover there. He knew that Numpakou wasn't James, knew that it was wrong to treat him as if he was, and that he was most likely damned for his attraction to the boy. He was inclined to ignore all of that, and do what he wished, as he always had done.

He tilted his head, lightly brushing his lips against Numpakou's, allowing the boy time to pull away. Numpakou made a small sound and slid a hand into his hair, pressing against him, deepening the kiss.

Severus moaned, pulling him flush. They kissed, tongues sliding together, exploring, until both were breathless. Lifting his head, Severus stared at Numpakou, taking in his flushed cheeks and satisfied smile. Numpakou opened his eyes, and lifted his hand, tracing Severus' face.

“What is your name?” he asked.

“Severus. Never shorten it, or I shall maim you.”

Numpakou laughed then, and rested his forehead on Severus' shoulder. “We should not be doing this.”

“Why not?” Severus asked, nuzzling his neck.

“The white men are not so accepting of my kind.”

“You are a white man,” Severus said, frowning. He gripped Numpakou's chin and looked into his eyes. “For all your brown skin, and for all that you live with the Indians, you are an Englishman.”

“No, I am not!” Numpakou pulled away, hugging himself. “That is not what I meant, anyway.”

“Why did you come here?”

“To learn,” Numpakou said, thinking quickly, coming up with the first excuse that came to mind. “About these potions. Will you teach me?”

“Potions?”

“Potions.”

Severus sighed. “I'll most likely regret this.” He stared at the boy. “Very well, let's begin.”

Numpakou smiled, following him over to the cauldron. He'd slip in questions, during the potion making, and in doing so, would learn about his parents.

~*~

Severus held his temper with the greatest of controls and stormed through the forest. His house was still not done, and now, he suspected his cousin of delaying it. She had mentioned this morning that she wanted to make sure everything was proper, giving him a harsh look when she did. He'd caught her going through his personal possessions, even going so far as to search his potions bag. Luckily, since he kept his wand on him at all times, she had not found that. That was supposedly destroyed, broken by the Aurors. He was convinced that she was reporting on him to the Wizengamot. He'd put up with her nosiness all day, finally managing to escape after dinner, walking away in the late afternoon.

His mood was not improved by the lack of sleep he'd had. Memories of James had invaded him, and he tossed and turned as he was lost in them. When he had finally fallen asleep, it was to a dream of making love to James, only to watch the skin darken, and the eyes of his lover shift from rich brown to emerald. He had woken then, gasping, cock hard and throbbing. There was no doubt in his mind that he now wanted the boy for himself.

Pushing the pine boughs to the side, he entered his clearing, already opening the clasp on his potions bag. He had intended to brew some potions, but he stopped dead at the sight that greeted him. The brat was here, standing in the shallows, gloriously naked as he wrung water from his long hair. Severus smirked, unashamedly taking in all that tan skin, feeling desire course through him. Wandlessly, he threw up some wards, ensuring their privacy.

“What are you doing here? It's not time to brew.” The brat jumped, his eyes flying open, and Severus' smirk grew to a grin. He dropped his bag, barely noticing it fell open, but not caring. He stalked forward, hands already on the buttons of his shirt.

“This is my pond,” Numpakou said, arrogantly. He started to step back into the water, and Severus called out.

“Stay there.”

Numpakou froze, watching as Severus stripped and dropped his clothing next to his own skins. They had been meeting for a full moon now. They'd brew, and Numpakou learned he was decent at this potion making, but they would also touch and kiss. Burning kisses that teased and tormented, that drove Numpakou insane with wanting and needing. Severus had not pushed past that yet, and Numpakou had not either, although both were ready and wanted to.

Severus stepped into the water, grimacing at how chilly it was. He took Numpakou's hand and led him into deeper water, releasing his hand long enough to dunk under. He came back up, slicking his hair back, and studied the young man in front of him. He could walk away now and not act on his darkest desires, but why? Here was what he wanted, what he'd dreamed of just last night, within reach and ready for him to take as he pleased. And he did please, very much. Even if the boy protested, well, Severus was certain a few kisses would convince him.

Numpakou shifted under his penetrating gaze, his own gaze darting around as he tried to not look below Severus' chest. He wasn't sure what to think or feel. He was nervous, as he'd never been among his own people. But he couldn't deny that he wanted Severus and he didn't want to leave. He wanted to touch, to be touched, and he thought that was what Severus wanted as well. Severus chuckled and stepped closer, brushing the heavy, wet hair back from Numpakou's neck.

“I want to ask…” Numpakou swallowed hard. He closed his eyes, lips parting on a gasp when Severus bent his head and licked the water from his neck.

“Not now,” Severus said, pulling Numpakou flush against him. He'd thought of nothing else but this boy since last night, being distracted all day by these dangerous imaginings. Seeing him here like this was tempting, and it had been so long since he'd had anything but his own hand for company. And he was so like James…

Numpakou moaned when Severus' hand wrapped around his cock, and he gripped the older man's shoulders, surrendering to him. Severus nipped his way up to the strong jaw line, sucking kisses along his skin, before finally capturing his mouth.

“Tell me no if you wish me to stop,” he whispered against those soft lips.

“I want this,” Numpakou answered.

Severus continued to stroke him, pulling his body close. Numpakou groaned, his hips bucking into the hand that held him so masterfully. Severus feasted on his skin, nipping and kissing. Numpakou had never felt like this before, like every nerve ending was on fire. He panted, thrusting, feeling everything coil and build.

A soft whine escaped when Severus stopped, and Numpakou opened his eyes, glaring at the older man. Severus turned his back, climbing out of the water and digging in his bag. He returned with a small mound in the centre of his palm, something green and slimy looking. Numpakou's eyes widened as Severus tipped his head back, swallowing whatever it was he held. He smirked and dove under water.

When the lips wrapped around him, suckling him, Numpakou moaned. He looked down to see Severus' head, bobbing under the water, even as he felt the wicked tongue moving on him. He wound his hands in the floating hair, thrusting into that hot mouth. Once more, he was so close, when Severus stopped. Grunting, Numpakou tried to pull Severus back, but the man moved around him, pushing on him.

Confused, Numpakou moved forward at Severus' urging. Now that he was calmer, and not being touched, he was concerned that Severus had been underwater for so long.

“Stop there,” Severus said, poking his head just out of the water. His eyes shone as he ran his hands up and down Numpakou's legs. “Lean on that log.”

Numpakou obeyed, placing his hands on the half submerged trunk. He jerked forward, his mouth opening in a gasp, when Severus spread his cheeks and licked his opening. As Severus sucked and tongued him, he panted, pushing back against his lover, rocking in the water. He slid a hand down, stroking his cock, but stopped with a cry when Severus bit him sharply. He twisted to look over his shoulder and saw Severus glaring at him through the water.

When he saw Numpakou place his hand back on the log, he went back to work. He blew a stream of bubbles against Numpakou's opening, grinning when the sound of a distorted moan reached him. Running a hand across his skin, Severus stroked his hip, before wrapping his webbed fingers around Numpakou's cock. Numpakou crumpled under the double stimulation, and he fell into the water as he came, barely realising that Severus was cradling him, keeping his head out of water.

As he recovered, Severus held him close, sucking kisses on his neck and jaw. When he could bring his breathing under control and think again, Numpakou broke away, standing and tugging on Severus' hand, pulling him from the water and onto the soft ground. Reaching for one of his skins, he spread it out and led Severus onto it.

Rolling his eyes up, he knelt in front of Severus and, wrapping his hand around the base of his cock, he licked across the head, pleased to hear a moan. Severus wound his hands in the long hair and willingly thrust into that eager mouth. He looked down to see the green eyes staring up at him, and that was enough, he was coming.

He slowly collapsed on the skin, struggling to pull in enough air. Numpakou stretched out beside him, stroking his skin, admiring how his dark hand looked on Severus' pale chest.

“Where did you learn to do that?”

“There are many celebrations throughout the year. After I came of age, I met a warrior at one at a nearby village who showed me a lot. He was wonderful.”

“It is accepted, among your people? Two men loving each other?”

“There is no shame in being two-spirit,” Numpakou said, frowning at Severus. “We are given powerful gifts by the gods.”

Severus sighed. “Your father was, two-spirit, is that the term you used?” When Numpakou nodded, he continued, “he loved both men and women.”

“Did he love you?” Numpakou bit his lip when Severus' face darkened, and the man made to get up. “No, please, do not.”

“I am not inclined to discuss my private business with just anyone.”

“I'm not just anyone,” Numpakou said softly.

“So, we pleasure each other, and you think you mean something to me?” Severus asked snidely. He pushed down the flare of guilt when pain flashed in Numpakou's eyes.

“No. I do not think I mean anything.” A soft shimmer of tears made his eyes sting, and he took a deep, shuddering breath, trying not to release them.

“Why do you ask about this?” Severus asked, ignoring the threat of tears.

“I want to know about my parents.” Numpakou had tried to ask questions, but had been brushed off every time. “I don't know what to offer you in return for answering them.”

“Yourself?” Severus was amused now, and he chuckled when the boy flushed and tried to draw away. Moving quickly, he pinned Numpakou underneath him, straddling his waist and holding his wrists out to either side. Seeing him like this made Severus want to take him, to claim him fully, and he was inclined to act on that desire.

“No, a trade,” Numpakou said, his voice and expression defiant. He glared at Severus, but made no move to fight or get away.

“What sort of trade?” Severus bent and drew his tongue across a nipple, humming at the gasp that resulted. He took the skin in his teeth, pulling away gently before releasing, then soothing the nip with his tongue.

“Herbs, plants, anything I can offer, for information.” Numpakou struggled to answer as his body responded to this love play. He met the dark eyes evenly, but his eyes fluttered shut when Severus slid down his body, laying fully on him. “Please…”

“Please? Please do this?”

Severus thrust against him, their groins rubbing together. Numpakou moaned and bucked up, responding to the sensation, his cock hardening quickly. Severus reached across Numpakou, no longer holding him down. His clothing was piled near them, and he dug through, finding his wand. Settling back on his young lover, he held out the wand.

Numpakou eyed the stick, flicking his gaze up to stare into the black eyes, but finding them shuttered; Numpakou could not even guess what Severus was thinking or feeling. Severus simply waited, holding the wand out. Hesitantly, Numpakou took the slim wood in his hand.

“Now, say ‘Accio oil',” Severus ordered. “As you do, picture the jar coming towards you.”

“Ah-kee-oh?”

“Yes, Accio. Say it. Accio oil.”

Numpakou gave him a doubtful look, but held out the stick and called out, “Accio oil!”

His eyes widened as a small earthen jar rose out of the black bag at the edge of the clearing and flew towards them. Severus snatched it out of the air. He slid the wand out of Numpakou's hand and opened the jar, dipping his fingers in.

“Have you done this before?” he asked, sliding his hand down between the boy's spread legs.

“Yes,” Numpakou answered.

He took a deep breath as he was breached, biting his lip. He opened his legs further, encouraging the shallow thrusts. Severus was enraptured by the sight, how Numpakou arched into his touch, how he wriggled and made breathy, needy noises. He pulled his fingers free and slicked his cock up. Pulling the boy's legs over his shoulders, he positioned himself and pushed in, his breath catching at the incredible heat that surrounded him.

“Please,” Numpakou said, looping his arms around Severus' neck. “Wait?”

“It hurts?”

Numpakou nodded, and Severus paused. Bending his head, he kissed Numpakou, running his tongue along his lips until he opened them, exploring. As Numpakou kissed back, he began to move, shallowly at first, but growing more forceful as Numpakou encouraged him with cries and his movements.

Numpakou slipped his hand between them, stroking himself. He felt the pleasure building, felt it crash over him, stealing his breath even as they kissed. He came, his legs tightening, his toes curling, as he arched his back. Severus moaned at the sensation, and he lost control, thrusting one last time as he came. He slowly eased out, rolling to lie next to Numpakou.

“Do you have to return to your village?” Severus asked. He turned on his side and ran his hand possessively down the boy's flank.

“I am of age. It is not unusual for one to spend the night away from the village,” Numpakou answered.

“Good,” Severus answered, filing that information away for further use. He kissed the boy again, lying on his back, and pulling Numpakou to rest on him. “Ask me what you will about your father. I do not promise to answer, however,” he said, as he stroked Numpakou's back.

“You did know him? Did you know my mother?”

“Yes, I knew her,” Severus said softly. “Your father and I were close at one time. He chose your mother over me because he wanted children.”

“Did you love him?” Numpakou held his breath, his head resting above Severus' heart, as he waited for an answer. The hand stroking his back faltered, before continuing the petting motion.

“Yes,” Severus admitted, his voice soft and filled with pain. “I would have given him anything.”

Numpakou lifted his head, scooting up a bit to look down at Severus. “If you had not lost to my mother, I would not be here.”

“It is the only good I can see in the situation,” Severus said before pulling Numpakou down for a kiss. He wished he could stay here all night, with this beauty in his arms, but he knew his cousin would question and wonder where he was. “I have to return to the town.”

“I am forbidden from there,” Numpakou said, cocking an eyebrow at Severus.

“Yes, you are,” Severus said evenly. “I would like to be with you again.”

“I enjoyed this,” Numpakou said.

“Then this can be your trade. Business only, you and I pleasure each other, and I tell you what you wish to know. Is that acceptable?”

Numpakou stared at him, feeling unaccountably hurt. He knew he'd acted rashly on his attraction to the man, giving in to the physical urges; it had been so long since he'd been with anyone and he had wanted to. But to have it put so coldly, like this…

“It is a logical solution,” Severus said, standing up and staring down at the boy. “I have no need for your plants and herbs; I have my own superior ones from England. I do have a need for your body, and you did take pleasure in it as well. It is not an unpleasant prospect, is it?”

Numpakou stood and pulled his clothing on, not answering. “I do not wish to trade my body this way. Thank you for today.”

“You are rejecting my offer?” Severus asked, his voice dropping, becoming cold and harsh.

Numpakou frowned and stepped back. There were those who had to give their bodies in exchange for things; most often those who were slaves. His own clan did not do this, but they knew of the practice, and there were neighbouring tribes who did have such people. It was not honourable to be in that position. He opened his mouth, but found he could not explain this to Severus. He shook his head and took another step away.

“What you ask, it is not right.”

Without another word, he turned and fled, leaving Severus behind him.

~*~

‘ Why is it so bloody hot here ?' Severus thought as he sat in the sweltering chapel. The minister droned on and on; about what, Severus couldn't say and didn't care.

As had happened so often since that evening, he found his thoughts turning back to Numpakou. He'd gone often to the pond, refusing to admit that he was hoping to see the boy, but there was no sign of him and hadn't been for weeks now. Closing his eyes briefly, he silently berated himself. He had chased him away, not intending to, of course, but it still had happened.

He refused to acknowledge just how much it was affecting him. The dreams at night were not happening. He was not waking up every morning with Numpakou's name on his lips. He was not looking for him as he roamed the forest. He sighed, knowing no matter how he denied it, he craved him.

Amaris shot him a sharp look for his sigh, and he cocked an eyebrow at her. None too soon, the minister came to a stop, but that did not mean the torture was over. The Sabbath was a day of piety and rest for the town. Severus had to be especially careful on that day to not appear different from the other townsfolk. So, he attended church, ‘prayed' beside the Muggles, and was as pious on the surface as any of them.

He filed from the church with the rest of the parishioners, neatly avoiding the small group of women who were eyeing him. He'd come to discover, much to his disgust, that being a bachelor made him desirable to those of marrying age, no matter his own age or appearance. He found the very thought abhorrent. He'd never felt attracted to the female form, and refused to pretend for appearances' sake.

“Severus?”

“Amaris.” Severus paused, concealing his displeasure at being stopped.

“It must be lonely in your house; will you come to dinner at mine?” Amaris asked, her tone as sweet as her eyes were hard.

Severus knew she suspected he'd worked magic on his house. She'd asked him outright, and he, of course, had denied it. He now had a proper dungeon, created by and concealed by magic, and no longer needed to brew at his pond. Not that it stopped him from going there…

“Thank you, but I prefer my solitude,” Severus said, as graciously as he could manage.

“Solitude? For what purpose?”

“That, cousin , is none of your business,” Severus answered. He frowned at her. “Ah, Minister Browne?”

“Yes, Doctor Snape?”

“My cousin would love for you to have dinner at her house tonight, wouldn't you, Amaris? He can take my place, as I am unfortunately not able to attend. Have a pleasant evening.”

Severus slipped away with a smirk on his face. Amaris would be trapped now. He felt it was just deserts, really. Walking through the village, he nodded to more than a few of the townsfolk; people that he'd healed, who had come to accept the taciturn, gruff man he appeared to be. He slipped inside his house, grateful to be alone.

He'd been accepted here, that was true, but he was walking a fine line. It took considerable magic to conceal what he was doing, and to heal the Muggles and make it appear to be natural or a result of his medicines.

He stripped off his outer coat, hanging it carefully up. A small package sat on his table, wrapped in plain brown paper. He walked over to it, running his finger over the rectangular shape. He'd had to be very cautious, obtaining this. It had cost him more than a few Galleons, and some favours called in, but it was worth it, to him, anyway. Picking up the package, he slipped from his house and disappeared into the forest.

~*~

Numpakou laughed as he watched the dancers twirl and move around the fire. Two of the nearby villages had gathered here to celebrate a wedding. His village was full of happy, celebrating couples, parents, and friends, with children running underfoot and playing games. His brother sat beside him with his friends, and they were flirting heavily with the keegsquaws who sat close by. Numpakou grinned with amusement, nudging his brother. His brother nudged him right back, motioning with his head to Numpakou's right.

“Might I sit here?”

Numpakou looked up to see a very handsome warrior, one he didn't immediately recognize. He guessed the young man was from another village and smiled.

“Perhaps a walk, instead?” he offered, standing.

“Yes. I am Nootimis.”

Numpakou answered the grin with one of his own and held out his hand. He held the smile, although it didn't reach his eyes, when Nootimis took it. “I am Numpakou.”

His brother snickered, and Numpakou shot him an irritated look. His brother rolled his eyes, shaking his head. Numpakou knew what he was thinking. He'd been moody lately, thinking constantly of Severus, remembering their brief, but intense time together. He may have done the right thing, but he was miserable. He was determined to ignore his feelings and enjoy his walk with Nootimis.

A loud commotion caught their attention, and they turned to the main gate of the palisade. Numpakou swallowed hard, suddenly nervous, as he saw Severus walk through the gate, surrounded by children. The music stopped, and almost as one, everyone followed his progress to where Numpakou stood.

Severus looked around at the throng of people watching him quietly, intensely. He blocked that and focused on his boy, who was holding someone else's hand for some reason. He frowned, glancing from the joined hands to Numpakou's face. Defiantly, Numpakou held the hand all the tighter and gave him a questioning look.

“I realize that what I asked of you was improper,” Severus said, softly. “I sent back to England for some things. This,” he offered a small bag, “was what was left of your father's belongings. These are things he gave me. I had stored them with a friend and sent for them for you.”

Numpakou reached for the bag, dropping Nootimis' hand in the process. He opened it, seeing a folded bit of parchment, a bit of shimmering cloth, and a small mirror. Severus made a small sound, and Numpakou looked up again.

“The mirror belonged to one of your father's best friends.” His voice was bitter as he said that, and with difficulty, he regained control. There was no need to bring Black into this. “Your father, James, would have wanted you to have these. I asked my friend, the one who held these for me, and he found out your name. Harry James Potter.” He held out the thin velvet box, offering it to Numpakou.

Numpakou took it, feeling unaccountably tense. He opened the strange container, letting out a small gasp at the thin stick of wood inside.

“What is this?”

“Take it,” Severus said, regaining the box. Numpakou reluctantly lifted the wand, gasping as warmth flooded his whole body. The wand glowed for a moment. His eyes widened, and he stared at Severus.

“You're a wizard, Harry.”

“No, I'm not.” Numpakou tried to hand the wand back to Severus, who took a step away.

“The wand chooses the wizard, Harry. I went through a lot of trouble, even risking my own safety to get this for you.”

“I did not ask you to. I don't want it!”

“I thought you'd be pleased to know about your past, to know who you are.”

“I know who I am. I am Numpakou. My home, my family is here. I am a healer of my people. I do not need this.”

“Keep it anyway,” Severus said. He reined in his emotions, refusing to show how hurt he was by the rejection. “Remember that you may look like them, you might live like them, but you are a wizard, whether you like it or not.”

Without another word, Severus Apparated to his home. Numpakou stared at the spot where he'd been, stunned that he'd disappeared so suddenly and completely. Numbly, he took the bag and wand and turned away from the celebration, disappearing into his home.

He lay on his cot, the wand and bag on the floor beside him, staring at them. He didn't look up or move when Mishaupen sat next to him. Both were silent for long moments, until finally, Numpakou shifted and glanced at his teacher.

“Was this your pale man?”

“He's not my pale man,” Numpakou said, weakly.

“Tell me you do not think of him every day.”

Numpakou flushed, unable to lie.

“I think, perhaps, he was trying to please you?”

“By doing this?” Numpakou gestured to the items on the floor.

“Perhaps you should talk to him. He misunderstands our ways, but he is a Wautaconuoag, and they are not the smartest of peoples. They do much ill, while convinced they are doing much good.”

“I am not who he thinks I am,” Numpakou said firmly.

“You are who you are,” Mishaupen responded. “Come, meditate. Ask the spirits what you should do.”

Numpakou nodded and followed Mishaupen out of the longhouse.

~*~

Severus let himself into his house, still upset and fuming about the brat and his rejection. After all he'd gone through, to have the boy refuse him yet again was simply too much. Hadn't he said that he wanted information about his parents?

Letting himself into his dungeon, Severus sealed the door with wards, ensuring that even his cousin could not find him down here. He would do what he always did in situations such as this, bury himself in potions and wait for the pain to fade.

Amaris watched the lights extinguish in Severus' house and frowned. She'd agreed to watch over her cousin when Dumbledore had asked her as a favour to her old Headmaster. She had known it might be difficult, especially for a man such as Severus, to adjust to the restrictions placed on him by the Wizengamot, but she'd never suspected the man would wilfully and blatantly disobey those restrictions.

She knew he was brewing and that he was using the potions and some magic to heal the townsfolk. She suspected he still had his wand; how, though, she didn't know. The Aurors would have broken it as part of his punishment.

That, in the interest of her town and the people she cared about, she could forgive and look the other way. But now, he'd sent off for a wand, a wand of all things, and that had caught the eye of the Aurors. She sighed and turned away from the window. Whatever happened to Severus, he had brought it down upon himself.

~*~

Numpakou woke suddenly, feeling unsettled. He'd seen many omens in his dream, and the spirits had been clear last night during his vision. He needed to go to the village, without delay. Dressing quickly in the early dawn, he slipped from his home. Bodies lay about the village, wrapped in skins and furs, sleeping. The celebration had continued, and Numpakou had no idea what had happened to Nootimis, but he assumed the young warrior had found other, more suitable, company.

The forest was calm and serene in the early morning hush. Numpakou approached the village, startled to find Hermione sneaking outside the walls. He felt a flush of guilt flood him; he hadn't spent much time with her since he'd met Severus. With a wicked grin, he changed his path to come behind her.

She barely held in her shriek as he grabbed her, whirling and hitting him solidly on the arm when she realised who it was.

“What are you doing?” she whispered.

“What are you doing?” Numpakou answered.

Hermione blushed. “I'm meeting someone.”

“Are you?” Numpakou grinned. “Tell me, who?”

“Nathan Clovill. My father says he's not a proper suitor.”

“Is he?”

“Numpakou, I love him.” She smiled, looking brilliant, almost glowing with happiness. “We're going to leave. There are other villages, places we can be together, as husband and wife.”

“Hermione!” Numpakou pulled her into a hug. “Are you leaving now?”

She nodded. “He's waiting for me. We've packed, and everything.”

“May the gods watch over you. Wunniook,” Numpakou said, wishing it with all his heart. She hugged him again, before pulling her cloak over her head and continuing away from the village. He watched her walk away, following her with his eyes until he could no longer see her.

Numpakou entered, walking among the silent houses. He found Severus' easily enough; the pull of magic from it was palpable, but his knocks went unanswered. He stood outside the door, trying to decide if he wanted to try to enter anyway. Finally, he made his decision, pushing the door open.

The room was quiet, and there was a hush about the house that convinced Numpakou that no one was there. There was an area by the bed, where the wall seemed to… shiver… but Numpakou stayed away from it. It made his skin crawl, worse than the magic Severus had done to block his pond off.

He sighed, wondering if Severus was with someone else. The flash of jealousy at the thought of Severus with another startled him, and he turned on his heel, walking out of the house.

He was halfway out of the village when a loud scream cut through the air. Freezing, he could only watch as doors opened, and heads poked out, most of them looking at him in an unfriendly manner. A shriek sounded from a house not far from him, and Numpakou knew that Hermione's mother had just discovered her disappearance. He started for the gate, wanting to leave before things became unpleasant.

“Hermione!”

Villagers tumbled out of their homes, and Numpakou found his way blocked by several men.

“What have you done with my daughter?”

“I did nothing,” Numpakou said, defiantly.

“His eyes,” one of the men said, and Numpakou flushed, but lifted his chin stubbornly. He opened his mouth to respond, but before he could speak, a dishevelled young man appeared at the entrance to the town.

“Help! Hermione, she's hurt!”

Numpakou was the first out the gate, pushing past the men who blocked him. He followed the young man, past the village and into the forest. Hermione was lying on the ground, her skin darker than normal, and she was barely breathing. A large welt was on her neck, and Nathan was babbling something about a bee. Numpakou dropped next to her, touching her neck, realising he could barely feel her heart.

He tried to calm himself, tried to call upon the spirits, but his magic kept slipping away from him. He ignored the chaos around him, resisted the hands that tried to pull him away. Time and time again, he gathered his magic, only to have it fight him, refusing to bend to his will.

He looked up when a hand gripped his shoulder, feeling an intense surge of relief when he saw Severus standing next to him. He moved back then, allowing the older man to kneel next to Hermione.

“Severus.” Amaris pushed through the crowd, resolutely blocking the image of Hermione's tearful mother from her mind. Young Nathan was pale, tears shining in his eyes, but she ignored that as well.

“Don't dare say a word,” Severus growled. He glanced at Numpakou and could almost feel his fear. Sparing one quick glance around at the townsfolk, who would most likely turn on him for this, he opened his bag.

Pulling out the correct potion out, he poured a bit in her mouth, massaging her throat until she swallowed. He poured a bit more in and frowned. The potion wasn't working, not fast enough. He dug in his bag, pulling out a bezoar, and placed it in her mouth. He took his wand from the thin, hidden pocket inside his coat, and, paying no mind to his cousin's gasp, he pointed it at Hermione.

He cast a deflating charm first, to reduce the swelling, and then a healing spell. When her colour was better, and she was breathing normally, he removed the bezoar, and checked her.

“She'll survive, but she needs rest,” he said in the stillness. He calmly packed his potions away, slipping his wand back into its hiding place. Standing up, he faced her parents, both of whom stared at him with horrified expressions on their faces.

“Take her home. And next time, listen to her wishes about who she would like to live her life with, and you may not lose her.”

He did not resist when rough hands grabbed him. His only regret was that he didn't get a chance to do more than look at Numpakou's scared face before he was dragged away.

~*~

“I tried, I truly did,” Amaris said, wringing her hands. The two men standing outside her home made her nervous, and she simply wanted them gone, so that she could return to her quiet life.

“We understand,” Auror Todkill soothed. “Where is he now?”

“I had to Obliviate the entire town. The entire town!” Amaris said.

“Yes, ma'am. Take us to him, and we'll deal with Snape,” Auror Wotten added. That wizard was on his way to Azkaban for his crimes.

“I secured him in his home. I said he was ill, and that's worked, so far,” Amaris said. She led the way to Severus' home. Once there, she nodded. “You can take it from here. I'm done with him.”

Whirling around, she walked away. The two Aurors shared a glance, and pulling their wands, they opened the door. Neither one noticed a small mirror hung on the wall, facing the door, showing their reflections as they walked inside.

With a sigh, Severus put his mirror down. He glanced around him at the forest floor, somewhat depressed that all his worldly belongings fit into so few bags. A soft touch on his arm caused him to look up. He answered Numpakou's smile with one of his own, and together they gathered his belongings and disappeared into the forest.

Quahog ~ shellfish used to make beads and in jewellery; manitous ~ god… spirits believed to exist in everything around; wampum ~ beads made from quahog, used for currency, or to show status; Nootimis ~ oak; Wunniook ~ be well

~fin~