Chapter Text
Severus stood at the tall windows of their new house, a steaming cup of tea warming his hands. Morning light spilled across the wooden floorboards, soft and golden, catching in his dark hair.
The house was probably larger than they had originally discussed. But when Hades had seen the look in Severus’ eyes the first time they had walked through it - wide, disbelieving, almost boyish - he had known. Severus needed this. Space. Light. Air.
It lay nestled in the green hills of Somerset, surrounded by rolling fields and old stone walls. The garden stretched wide and generous, edged with wildflowers and low hedges. In one corner stood several large greenhouses of glass and wrought iron. Neville had personally overseen their construction and the planting of the rare plants within. Through that shared project, Severus and Neville had grown unexpectedly close.
The wide windows let in more than enough sunlight, illuminating the long oak table where the morning’s Prophet lay unfolded.
The Fall of a Legend
More troubling revelations continue to emerge regarding Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore - former Headmaster of Hogwarts, former Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, former recipient of the Order of Merlin, First Class.
In recent months, the wizarding public has already learned of his involvement in the tragic death of his sister, Ariana Dumbledore, and his admitted role in the attack on the Rowle family.
Now further concerns have surfaced regarding his past relationship with Gellert Grindelwald and the ideological ambitions they once shared.
Healers at St. Mungo’s confirm that Dumbledore’s mental state has deteriorated significantly. According to one source, “He claims to see Grindelwald everywhere.”
The Ministry has stated that, given his condition, he will not stand trial for his confessed crimes.
However, officials confirm he will remain indefinitely in the Janus Thickey Ward.
The name Albus Dumbledore once symbolized wisdom and light.
Today, it stands as a cautionary tale.
Hades stepped closer, wrapping his arms around Severus’ waist, winding his fingers gently through Severus’ free hand. Their thin golden rings caught the sunlight, glinting softly. He couldn’t be happier.
They both looked out across the garden. Several long tables had been arranged on the lawn, garden stools placed neatly around them. Lanterns hung between trees, swaying faintly in the breeze.
“Why,” Severus drawled, leaning back against Hades’ chest, “do we need to host a housewarming party for half the wizarding world?”
“It’s only close family and friends,” Hades said, grinning against his temple.
“And my former colleagues from Hogwarts. The Minister of Magic…” Severus continued dryly.
To be honest, Severus was slightly right. Practically everyone would be there. His favourite sister Hazel, his godparents, Regulus and Dorcas with their family, even his aunt Petunia with her daughter Daisy.
“You will enjoy it,” Hades murmured.
“Mm.”
“The last time you even spoke to my father and Sirius,” Hades added, pressing a kiss to Severus’ neck.
“It was our wedding,” Severus replied calmly. “They were polite. I only imagined hexing them.”
Hades laughed, the sound warm against Severus’ skin.
“Could have been worse.”
They fell quiet again, watching the light shift over the hills.
“Thank you for coming into this world,” Severus said softly.
Hades’ breath caught. He tightened his arms instinctively, holding him closer, as if anchoring the moment. After a few more heartbeats, Severus spoke again, quieter.
“Don’t you think… you might grow bored here? With me?”
“Never,” Hades said immediately, kissing Severus’ cheek. “And if I ever get bored in forty or fifty years, I could still become Minister of Magic.” He paused. “Or conquer Britain.”
Severus’ breath hitched slightly.
“You are joking,” he said carefully.
Hades smiled against his skin.
“Of course, love.”