For you, always: Part 2

Chapter 3

The hour was late and Severus Snape found himself massaging his throbbing temples in a vain attempt to stave off the impending headache that had been intensifying since his return from the Order meeting. Recommencing his position as a double agent had been a fearsome undertaking, and even though Severus was an accomplished Legilimens he lived in constant fear the Dark Lord would discover his position. If he did it would surely mean his demise, and ensure that he left this world having accomplished nothing virtuous in his entire life.

He stood and headed towards the ornate drinking cabinet and decanted himself a large glass of red wine. Lucius Malfoy, a man whom he did not particularly care for, but was required to exchange obligatory pleasantries with if he were to keep up his Death Eater pretense, had gifted this bottle to him.

As he stood by the window, sipping this absurdly expensive wine, his thoughts drifted to Lexi. He had known she would be attending the meeting, and so had prepared himself for any residual feelings that may have presented themselves, but he hadn't expected the surge of passion he'd experienced as she'd walked through the door. He glanced fondly at the worn copy of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, which she'd gifted to him the previous Christmas. It had been Lily's, and he must have read it a dozen or so time since. Flicking through its yellowing, worn pages felt comforting and reminded of the love this woman felt for him.

A searing pain stabbed at his left arm, causing Severus to drop the wine glass that shattered on the floor.

"Ah!" He hissed through gritted teeth, grasping the sleeves of his linen shirt and pulling it upwards.

The Dark Mark was jet black, and seemed to pulsate from his burning forearm. Dread swept over him as he reached for his wand, he detested being summoned at the Dark Lord's beck and call. He felt as though he was plunging himself into the unknown. He exited his quarters quickly, grabbing his travelling cloak from the stand by the door, and dashed up the steps towards the entrance hall. The castle was deserted, save for a few of the teachers who were not holidaying. He broke into a full on run; it would not do well to keep the Dark Lord waiting. Once he'd past through the gates, he stood on the threshold and after taking several steadying breathes he disapparated.

Seconds later Severus appeared shakily in what seemed to be a small clearing in a dense forest. Moonlight shone through the trees creating the effect of bars in a prison cell. At the far end of the clearing Severus could just make out two hooded figures. He could just make out Voldemort's tall outline, and even though most of his face was obscured by his hood Severus could feel his penetrating stare attempt to plunge into his thoughts.

"My Lord," Severus greeted, bowing to Voldemort.

"Severus," Voldemort nodded, and Severus noticed a very nasty sneer that made him feel nervous. "I trust you remember Wormtail?" He said, gesturing lazily to the small, portly wizard to his left.

Severus acknowledged Pettigrew with a barely noticeable nod.

"You summoned me, My Lord?" He said evenly, hoping Voldemort couldn't sense his creeping fear.

"I did indeed, Severus." Voldemort uttered, barely audible so Severus had to step closer. "I have a job for you, if you would be willing?"

"Of course, My Lord, anything." He responded immediately, even though dread filled the pit of his stomach.

"I assume that Dumbledore has already gathered together his little group?" He jeered, lowering his hood revealing his snake-like features.

"He has, My Lord." Severus confirmed, trying not to be thrown by the serpentine features facing him. "My orders are to convey information to the Order concerning your plans of attack, and any known Death Eaters within the Ministry."