The Arrival of the Patients

A/N: I still don't own anything you recognize. Severus' character starts to evolve here. It's definitely different from canon. I do feel he would have been different once out of the clutches of Voldemort and Dumbledore for good. I'm hoping as the story unfolds, the transition makes sense.

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I rose early the next morning. There was much to do before lunch time, and I knew Severus would want to get on with his morning with Draco. However, it was important that I check his levels before he started working.

As I stood outside his chambers, I suddenly felt nervous. All the Malfoys, plus my house-elf, had hounded me about Severus yesterday. What must they be saying to him? I knocked hesitantly on the door.

"Enter."

I walked in the room. Severus had obviously just finished eating. "How are you feeling this morning?"

"I feel like I was attacked by a massive poisonous snake."

"Would you like any pain relief potion?"

"No. Can we get on with this? The sooner Draco and I get going, the sooner I can finish the antivenin; which is what I need, not these endless questions."

"Very well, Severus, I can multi-task." I took out my wand and tapped his arm, casting the first of the diagnostic charms.

"I see they've moved you from liquids to soft foods. Are you experiencing any more pain from that?"

"No," he sighed.

I moved to the next diagnostic charm. "Your voice sounds stronger. How does your neck feel?"

This time his sigh was accompanied by an eyeroll. "Sore," he grumbled.

I performed the next diagnostic charm. "And how is your energy level?"

"Low."

"Where is this belligerence coming from this morning, Severus?"

"I'm not a pleasant man, Healer Prewett."

"Well, your levels are holding up reasonably well. You should be able to brew this morning without too much trouble, but do take it easy."

"I think I know what I can handle."

"You do realize I'm trying to help you?"

"Of course I do. I'm not a child. But don't expect me to be thrilled about your incessant questions and manhandling."

"Manhandling? It's a simple blood test. Given all you've been through, I wouldn't think you'd be so jumpy about a few medical tests."

"Given all I've been through! Seriously, woman, what do you know about what I've been through?"

"Severus, stop. I'm just trying to help you."

"Don't think you know me because you saw into my mind! You don't get some kind of pass because you look like her! You don't know what my life is like. And I don't care how much Lucius tries to play his little games, you are not Lily."

"No, Severus, I'm not. Let's get that straight. I have auburn hair. End of story. That's it. I'm not Lily; I'm not trying to be Lily. If you think I'm any happier than you are about the comparisons, you are sadly mistaken."

"In the shack, you let me believe you were her. I thought she was taking me home."

"In the shack, you were disoriented. I needed information from you. I didn't have time to go through a long drawn out 'getting to know you' session. Healers use the information they can get quickly, information that they need to help the patient. I didn't interrupt your delusion. You were dying, Severus. Should I have let you die? Should I have followed some ridiculous ethical code above all costs at the expense of my patient's life?"

And then something strange happened. He laughed. It was a dark, slow, laugh at first, which provided no comfort.

"What could possibly be funny?"

"I've become a Gryffindor! It's official! I'm in hell."

"Well, if Gryffindors are prone to melodrama, you're doing a good impression," I started sharply. I stopped myself. I had to maintain control; I wasn't the one that almost died. I continued more softly, "Are you really angry at me for not correcting you in the shack?"

"Yes. No. Merlin, I don't know. You did what you had to do to achieve your goal of helping me. It's just embarrassing." He looked up at me, clearly trying to hide pain behind those black eyes. "My whole embarrassing life is going to be on display with these trials coming up, Potter spilled my memories all over the Daily Prophet, and I gushed to you thinking you were Lily."

"Severus, I don't know what you think you let me see, but it wasn't much. It wasn't about Lily. It was about Harry. You were upset that you weren't able to protect him. You thought he was going to die, and you apologized to me, to Lily, because of Dumbledore's scheming. You said Harry got his good traits from Lily, and you made a crack about James. Then, you noticed my eyes. At that point, I told you I was just trying to help you, and you yelled at me to look in your pocket. Then you passed out again. The next person that cast Legilimens was you, after I silenced you."

He shot me a dirty look, but this one was less malicious. "Are you telling me the truth?"

"Yes. Look, I am not a master at looking into people's minds. I can only connect with their current train of thought. I cannot rifle through memories, and if anyone wants to toss me out, they can. Even mild Occlumency walls are more than I can breach.

"You entered my mind after you woke back up; you asked me a few questions about the battle. After that, Lucius took over that job at your request."

"I remember more conversations with Lily while I was in the shack. She was there."

"I don't know, Severus. A dream, an apparition, a side effect of having your memories stirred up when you gave Harry your memories of her. Maybe your daydreams got tangled with your memories. It could have been a simple hallucination caused by blood loss and trauma. Seeing Harry, plus seeing me and my physical similarity to her; either may have triggered it. I swear to you, Severus, I did not see anything of a personal nature regarding you and Lily."

He covered his face with his hand. "I am sorry. It was unfair of me to attack you, even if you had seen something. You saved my life. It's just difficult, after keeping secrets for so long, to live with them being so very public." He looked away.

"And the thought of having a stranger rifling through your most intimate thoughts made it that much uglier?"

"Yes. Combined with the fact that you saved my life, and the fact that Lucius and Narcissa started in about you the moment you arrived here. I'm tired of having my life meddled with by others. I've survived twenty years under the thumb of two masters, and I'm ready to be my own man."

"Severus, you don't owe me anything. I didn't pull you from a burning building. I'm a Healer. You were a patient in need. I did my job."

"I owe you a life debt."

"No, you don't. What I did was not at any peril to me. It is my job. It's specifically why I was at Hogwarts that night. I've been the Order's Healer for nearly a year now. And as far as Lucius and Narcissa go, honestly, it's harmless gossip. They are happily married; they want to see you happy. You're an eligible man, I'm an eligible woman. We met under stressful circumstances, I 'saved your life', and I look like your long lost love. It's a bunch of romantic nonsense. Let it go in one ear and out the other. Honestly, consider it a compliment that they care so much about your happiness."

"You realize I'm not used to being the subject of romantic gossip, right?" Severus frowned in a self-deprecating way.

"What makes you think I'm used to it?"

"You lived with Molly's Aunt Muriel; no doubt she clucked and doted about you."

I laughed. "Clearly you've never met Muriel. She certainly clucks, but doted, oh no. Her favorite topic is how disgraceful I am. I'm not sure I'd classify Muriel's gossip as harmless."

"See, that's the kind of gossip I'm used to, Elizabeth. Greasy git, bat of the dungeons, whisperings that I'm a vampire, this is what people say about me." His face showed the tiniest hint of a smile.

"Vampire? I'm not sure I can top that one."

There was a knock at the door. Draco peeked around the corner. "Are we ready to start?"

"We're almost done, Draco. One more test. I need to check if he's still a Slytherin."

Severus pouted, and then Draco laughed.

"No really, Draco, I'm all finished with him. Do you have a moment?"

Draco nodded. I stepped out into the hall with him. "How was your talk with your father?"

"It went reasonably well."

"I wasn't called down last night, so I'm assuming everything went smoothly."

"You mean the release of the binding spell? Yes, no serious issues. It's strange; I am feeling a little out of sorts today, clumsy almost."

"Your body is adjusting to the new feeling of your unbound magic. It should go away in a few days. Don't try any spells that requires precision for a few days."

"How am I going to shave?"

"Really, that's the best you could come up with?"

"No really, I mean it."

"You're a Malfoy. Call a house-elf."

"Ouch!"

"Alright Draco, Severus will have my head if I detain you much longer. I will see you at two for afternoon rounds. We'll talk more then."

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I headed to the hospital ward to take a final inventory before taking the Floo to Hogwarts. Everything appeared to be in order, thanks to Orby and the Malfoys. Lucius had been as good as his word and had provided everything we needed.

I walked over to the Floo, took a handful of powder, stepped in, and tossed it into the flames, calling out, "Hogwarts!"

Minerva was at her desk waiting for me. "Elizabeth, it is lovely to see you again."

"Thank you, Headmistress."

"How is Severus?"

"Physically, he's still weak; however, I think once we get him the next dose of the potion, he will feel much better."

"And how is otherwise?"

"He's coping. He's been through a great deal."

"And how are you faring? Is living with the Malfoys too much of a strain?"

"I'm staying in one of the cottages on the property, but honestly, Narcissa and Draco have been nothing but polite. I can't say that I trust Lucius." Minerva paled at my words. "Don't worry; it's in his best interest to treat me well, and he's savvy enough to know that. I'll be tutoring Draco until his trial. He is considering medicinal potions as a career or possibly becoming a Healer."

"That is interesting. Draco was always a bright boy, though his magic became a bit cloudy during the war. Perhaps the pressure of it all affected him."

I looked at the ground. That was not my secret to share.

"Minerva, are the patients ready?"

"Yes. St. Mungo's sent some orderlies to handle the transfer. Poppy has their charts for you. You'll just need to open the Floo for them and then show them to their rooms on the other side."

"Thank you. The Malfoys have established a lovely area for the patients. There are two lounges and a dining room. One lounge is much like the common rooms here at the school. It contains a sitting area, a fireplace, and some wizarding games. The other has actually been charmed to allow Muggle technologies. It has a television, computer, a few game tables, and other Muggle diversions. The intent is for them to feel like guests rather than patients. We will be keeping them to the wing with the patient rooms, as we don't want them to stumble upon Severus, nor do I want them intruding upon the family in their private quarters. There's also the trouble with some of the portaits. They will have access to one of the smaller gardens to get some fresh air."

"It sounds like you've all put in a lot of work to make them comfortable."

"Honestly, it's mostly been Draco. Though Lucius, I'm sure, we'll be happy to have all of this reported to show how they've changed."

Minerva chuckled. "Once a Slytherin, always a Slytherin. Do watch him, dear."

I nodded. "How is the restoration of the castle coming along?"

"Slowly, but we've had a lot of offers to help. Several have come from abroad. The Ministry is short on resources and will likely soon be distracted by the trials as well."

"Yes, I expect it will." We had arrived at the hospital wing. In front of me were the eight patients that were being transferred to Malfoy Manor.

I was officially introduced to Lavender Brown, the young girl that had been attacked by the werewolf. Her wounds were healing as well as could be expected, but as they were cursed wounds, the scarring was extensive.

Dean Thomas was next. He was a pleasant young man, handsome and charming. He had fallen during the battle and had done serious damage to his spinal cord. The doctors from St. Mungo's had performed most of the healing necessary, but his body would need to be retaught how to use those muscles. He was in a wheelchair, but he still maintained use of his upper body.

Terry Boot was another young man with similar injuries to Mr. Thomas. One of his arms had also been badly broken and would need some therapy as well. I shook his uninjured hand as the orderly wheeled him past me towards Minerva's office.

Professor Sinistra had been struck by a particularly nasty curse and had lost much of her memory. It was not a case for the Janus Thickney ward, for her ability to learn was intact, as was much of her general knowledge. But her personal memories and much of her professional knowledge was either locked away or erased. It was our job to figure out which and to help her move forward. She smiled sweetly as we walked together towards the Floo connection.

Edward MacMillan had a gash on his arm that seemed to reopen about every 24 hours. Poppy had tried all forms of magical healing that were commonly used, and she had also tried to treat it through Muggle means, but there was clearly some sort of exotic hex that had been used. His arm was currently wrapped in a sling.

Jessica Wood had been hit by a curse that had caused sudden muscle atrophy in her legs. Muggle therapy would reverse the effects, but it would be slow and painful. She was also in a wheelchair.

Margorie Davies had suffered a head injury, and while she seemed fine much of the time, she suffered from frequent fainting spells. She also had occasional panic attacks and hallucinations of Death Eaters. I had arranged for Lucius and Narcissa to stay away from the hospital for the first few days. Draco was to wear his Healer trainee robes at all times in her presence to try and remove any past association with the Death Eaters.

Rosalyn Kirkwood had lost the use of one of her arms from a curse. St. Mungo's had not been able to figure out the cause. Like Edward, her arm was in a sling to protect it.

I led the orderlies back through the castle to the Floo. One by one, I tossed the powder into the Floo and called out the destination. Boppy and Orby waited on the other side to lead them to the lounge.

As I walked through, I saw that they had already settled in waiting for me. Boppy and Orby were there as well. I saw Draco standing off in the corner. He understood that his involvement would likely take some time for some of the patients to accept. I took a deep breath and addressed the group.

"Welcome to Malfoy Manor, everyone. I know some of you may have been nervous about coming here, but let me assure you, you will be safe. There are two Aurors onsite for your protection, as well as a variety of charms and wards. Further, we will do everything to ensure your comfort. If there is anything you need, please call Boppy or Orby." I motioned to the elves.

"They will find me, Draco, or the Mediwitch working the current shift; whatever is appropriate. They will also help you with any accommodation requests you might have.

"There is an owlery available for your use. We will also have regular visiting hours starting tomorrow. You may have visitors in the afternoons or before nine in the evenings. The Floo will be open to the visitors that you had previously approved while you were at Hogwarts.

"There will be meals in the dining room, or the elves can bring them to your rooms if you prefer. Please let the elves know of any requests for meals. I will review any requests for health limitations, but beyond that, you are guests here, so feel free to let us know what you need or want.

"Through the doors behind you is the Muggle lounge. Please do not take wands in that room. The equipment is warded, but nevertheless, it is important that we be careful with magic in there.

"To your left are the gardens. Stay inside the hedges unless you speak with Draco or me first. We do not want to tread on the hospitality of our hosts, so that will ensure their privacy.

"If there are no questions, orderlies, please see Draco for the room assignments and take your patients to their rooms. I will begin rounds in approximately one hour."

"Very impressive, Healer Prewett," called a deep voice from behind me. I turned to see Minister Shacklebolt.

"Minister, I did not expect you here today."

"Honestly, Healer Prewett, I came today to check on the Malfoys and reassure myself of the decision to allow them to remain in their home. I had lunch with them a little while ago, and I am quite pleased. Lucius shared with me Draco's role in the hospital, and Narcissa told me of the renovations you all have done for the patients. You really have gone above and beyond."

"I've had a lot of help, both with the work and with the ideas. Draco has thrown himself into making this operation a success, Narcissa is a master at hospitality, and Lucius has spared no expense. The elves are dedicated, St. Mungo's has been helpful, and Minerva and Poppy ran a splendid operation at Hogwarts that made the transition easier."

"Excellent, I'm very pleased to hear it. Did Lucius correctly relay that you intend to stay on as Draco's tutor until he is able to move on to the the next stage of his training?"

"I have not officially accepted Lucius's offer. But that is my intent, and I have communicated as such to Narcissa."

"Well, we're happy to have you as long as you wish to stay." Kingsley smiled.

"Do you speak for all of Wizarding England?"

"I believe I do. I have heard nothing but praise for your work. Now, I was planning to go speak to your other patient before I depart. I would like to hear of the plans for Draco. Do you care to join me?"

"Actually, I should probably check in with Severus and see how he feels after working with Draco this morning. Follow me." Kingsley and I began walking to the family wing. Draco, who had finished talking with the orderlies, caught up with us.

"How did this morning go, Draco?"

"Well, I think. Professor Snape is a far more patient teacher when it is one on one. We were able to complete the first stage of the potion for him. We also started a couple simple potions for the other patients. There is one other that will need some attention this afternoon. I will bring them by the hospital storeroom this evening before dinner."

"Excellent. How is he?"

"Professor Snape is as stoic as always. I think brewing, or even instructing brewing, is more taxing on him than he would like to admit."

"Hmm, well, presuming the brewing continues to go well, hopefully he'll be better shortly."

We had arrived at his room. Kingsley knocked firmly.

"Enter." I walked in with the others. It was difficult not to laugh at Severus' cross face. Orby's description of grumpy certainly seemed to fit.

"Severus, how are you feeling after working with Draco this morning?"

"A bit more tired than yesterday. I plan to rest this afternoon. Healer's orders."

"That is excellent, Severus. Snark is a vast improvement over vitriol."

"Trying to beat me at my own game, Elizabeth?" Severus inquired with considerable mirth in his voice.

"Oh, I wouldn't dream of it, Severus. I'm merely hoping to learn from the master." I gave him a smirk of my own.

"Your color looks better than this morning. It looks like exercising your mind is helpful to your overall well-being. But don't overdo it. How did it feel this morning, being back in the lab?"

"It was energizing, actually; though I did tire out quickly."

"After your nap, I'd like you to take a short walk, if you are feeling up to it. Draco, are you available to escort him? I'd rather someone be with him in case he needs assistance."

"Actually, I cannot. My interview with Robards is later today. Mother is also meeting with him today, and Father is in business calls all afternoon."

"Oh. Well, then, Severus, I suppose you are stuck with me. If you don't mind, that is." I felt my face warm a bit. Draco's eyes gleamed.

Severus frowned at Draco. "That should be fine. Perhaps we can use that time to discuss Draco's training in-depth a bit more." He eyed the boy menacingly.

Kingsley stepped up at this time. "Severus, you look much better than when I saw you last."

"Thank you, Minister Shacklebolt."

"I have been approached by several Ministry officials regarding the first round of accolades for service during the war with Voldemort. Your name has come up. You have been nominated for an Order of Merlin, First Class. Well deserved, mind you, but I can't give you a posthumous award in good conscience, since, well, since you are alive."

"It will be interesting to see how those opinions change when people know I have survived." His voice betrayed his doubt.

"Oh, I doubt that it will be as significant as you think, Severus. Mr. Potter is leading quite the campaign on your behalf."

"Minister Shacklebolt, please ask the boy to desist. If not for my sake, how will it look for him when my survival is revealed?"

"Still protecting the boy, Severus?" Kingsley inquired honestly.

"Hardly," Severus sneered. "I vowed to protect his life from Death Eaters; I did not vow to protect his reputation from his own foolishness."

"In addition to worrying about the reputations of those keeping your secret, the goblins are inquiring as to why there has been no discussion of the settlement of your estate."

"So, you are saying that the time has come to reveal my whereabouts?"

"Not to the public at large, but to appropriate officials, I do think it is prudent."

"You know it will leak, don't you?"

"I'm aware that it is possible, even likely."

"Minister Shacklebolt, is it possible to hold off one more week? Severus will be much stronger after his next dose of the potion."

"How soon will it be ready?"

"Three to four days," Severus said.

"He'll need a few more days of convalescence before he sees anyone besides the small circle we've already discussed," I said definitively, putting on my most official Healer voice. "He's making good progress; I'd hate to see that impeded." Severus gave me a very subtle nod of thanks.

"Very well, I shall wait one week, and then I'll send an answer to Gringotts. Severus, I shall protect your privacy as much as I can. Frankly, there are very few people that can be allowed on the property, given the fact that the Malfoys are formally under house arrest."

"Thank you, Minister."

"Draco," I began, "we should go. We need to start our rounds soon. Minister, it was good to see you. Enjoy your visit, but do allow Severus his rest."