Title: A New Start Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter or Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Warnings: Slash and I have no beta so please excuse the mistakes. Pairings: Angel/Xander and Severus/Giles so far.
Chapter One:
Severus Snape entered his small cottage and went straight to his fire whiskey. After the day he had all Severus wanted to do was forget everything that happened at the Death Eater meeting and maybe get some sleep. He could still hear the screams of the muggles as the Dark Lord tortured them and all he could do was watch. The Dark Lord was gaining more power and it didn’t look so good for the Light. He has even taken over most of the Ministry of Magic. Like his son Alexander would say at certain times it sucked being him. Severus poured himself a healthy dose of whiskey and chugged it back enjoying the way it burned down his throat. He grabbed the bottle and went to sit by the fire planning to drink all of his worries away. Severus was about to pour him another drink when a wave of anger came over him at what happened at the meeting and he threw the bottle into the fire. So many innocents murdered over nothing.
Voldemort was such a bastard.
Too many innocent people were being killed by that sick asshole and there was nothing Severus could do. He became a spy to find a way to stop the killing and destroy Voldemort once and for all. Severus thought it was over when Voldemort disappeared all those years ago. Dumbledore was the one who knew the Dark Lord wasn’t really gone and he said as much. It was too bad that the fate of the Wizardry World lay on the shoulders of a sixteen year old boy. Dumbledore laid all of his hope on Harry Potter believing the boy was the one destined to destroy Voldemort. Severus cursed wishing he never threw his whiskey away. Potter wasn’t ready to face the Dark Lord and Severus believed he will never be ready. The boy needs more training and lessons about Dark Magic. The Headmaster wasn’t helping by keeping the Boy Who Lived in the dark. Things were getting worst and it looked like there was no hope. Severus wanted nothing more then to forget everything if for only one night. He was about to see if he had another bottle of fire whiskey when a head popped into his fireplace.
“We need to talk, Severus.” The head demanded in a cold voice. Severus groaned when he realized whose head it was in his fire. All Severus wanted was to have a quiet night at home, but that wasn’t going to happen now.
It was Jessica Harris his bitch of an ex wife. It didn’t matter if she was a pure blood witch and a cousin to the Malfoy family. Severus hated her more then he hated the Dark Lord. The only good thing she had ever given him was his son. Alexander was his beloved son and greatest joy.
The son she only allowed Severus to see once a year. Like he said she was a real bitch.
“Can’t this wait until tomorrow Jessica, I am tired.” Severus told his ex wife wishing for her to disappear. He wanted to wallow in his misery alone. The woman was more annoying now then she was when they were still together. He really shouldn’t have thrown away that whiskey. Severus sighed; there was nothing he could do over it now
The head was able to see that Severus has been drinking. There were important things she needed to talk with him about and she needed him sober. Jessica was running out of time and knew this wasn’t going to be easy. She needed to get this done before Xander and Tony came home. “It’s about Alexander.”
That had Severus’ full attention and he forgot all about his whiskey and the Dark Lord. It wasn’t often that he heard about his son. Jessica tried her best in keeping them apart. “Has something happened to him?”
“No, he’s fine, but I’m worried something is going to happen to him soon.” Jessica faked a worried expression on her face. Alexander was her son and she did care about him. Still she had her own life to live with Tony and wanted nothing of her past around. Including Alexander her son. She had already wasted too many years. “Alexander is hanging around the Slayer and a want to be witch. He thinks I don’t know, but I’ve lost count on the times he sneaked into the house hurt.”
“And you did nothing about this?” Severus snarled causing the head in his fire to flinch. He never liked the idea of Jessica raising his son and if he had a choice he would have kept him. Alexander was his life. He was the only thing that kept Severus going when things were at its darkest. If it wasn’t for his spying for Dumbledore and Voldemort is starting to become suspicious of him. He would have fought Jessica tooth and nail for Alexander. “I never liked the idea of you taking Alexander to live on the Hellmouth and now you tell me he is putting himself in danger.”
Was the boy a Gryffindor? Helping the Slayer was a dangerous thing to do. What in Merlin’s name was Alexander thinking?
“It’s time for Alexander to come and live with you.” Jessica said watching her ex husband’s face for emotion. She needed to hurry this up since school was about over and Xander would come home. “I’m tired of doing everything for the boy. And don’t use the excuse of it being to dangerous over there. He would be safer with you then here helping the Slayer and trying to get him killed.”
Severus smirked, Jessica never was very smart and it was easy enough to figure out what she was up too. True coming to live with him would be very dangerous for his son with his spying. It wouldn’t matter soon since the Dark Lord no longer trusted him and they had a new spy in the ranks. Doubledore would be more then happy to let him quit after all the years he was loyal to the Light. However that didn’t change anything. It would still be very dangerous because the Dark Lord would want him dead and anyone related to him. Hogwarts was safe and if the Dark Lord ever found a way to break the school then there was Snape Manor. Snape Manor was old and very well warded it would be hard to enter the Manor. “Perhaps it is about time Alexander came home to England to have a better education. The boy must be behind in his studies with helping the Slayer.”
Jessica paled at the mention of studies. Alexander hadn’t went to a magic school the boy thought he was a squib. “Alexander doesn’t study magic.”
“And why doesn‘t he study magic?” Severus’ eyes narrowed his voice was as hard as rock. “He does attend classes at Salem does he not?”
“No, we had no money for the fee.” Jessica whimpered when Severus growled at her. Severus Snape was a wizard you did not want to get angry.
“What of the money I send you every year for his support and education?” Severus sent more then enough money every year for his son’s every need. Where had all that money gone?
“Other things came up that we had to deal with.” The money was used for Tony and her uses she believed it was her due for all the things she had to put up with raising Alexander. It wasn’t like Severus would miss the money the wizard was rich even more so then the Malfoy or Dumbledore. The Snape family was as old as Merlin himself. It was one of the reasons Jessica’s parents had her marry him in the first place.
Merlin knew she didn’t marry him for his looks. Though Severus wasn’t bad to look at he did have that whole dark and dangerous thing going for him. And he was really good in bed really knew how to please a woman. Jessica smirked in thought. It was too bad Severus preferred male company over female.
Severus stood up and walked over to the fire glaring at the face of his ex wife the whole time. He never guessed Jessica would keep the money for herself. Alexander was her son and he foolishly believed she would want the best for her son as well. He should have checked up on the boy. “Have Alexander ready. I’ll be there within a day to pick him up.” His grin turned evil. “You, Harris, and I will have a small talk when I get there.”
It would be fun to scare the muggle husband of his ex wife. Tony Harris was such a coward. He would learn the hard way that you do not miss with the Snape family.
Jessica glared at Severus then pulled her head from the fire. She didn’t notice that her son had walked into the door and saw her pull herself from the fireplace. Xander smiled, there was only one person his mother would fire call. “Talking to dad?”
Jessica jumped at the sound of her son’s voice. She turned and glared at the boy. “Yes, he’s coming to visit tomorrow.”
“Cool, it’ll be good to see him.” The last time Xander had seen his father it was about a year ago. He knew it was hard for his dad to come and see him with his spying and teaching at Hogwarts.
“You need to pack your things.” Jessica told her son a grin on her face. Soon she’ll be free and could live her life the way she wanted it.
Xander gave his mother a look of confusion. Why would he need to pack up his things? “Pack up my things?”
“You’re going to move with your dad.” Jessica made her way into the kitchen. She wanted to make sure there was beer before Tony came home. He gets cranky without his beer. And when he was cranky someone got hurt.
“I’m going to move in with dad?” Xander breathe out. He was moving with his dad to England? “What about the war with Voldemort?”
“Don’t say his name!” Jessica yelled at her son afraid of the Dark Lord. She was from England after all and the name of the Dark Lord still caused fear in her. “It’s not so dangerous for you now. It should be a walk in the park for you what with helping the Slayer and all.”
Xander flinched at the look his mother was giving him. She found out about Buffy and the others. “I can’t move to England.”
“You don’t want to live with your father?” Xander was close to Severus. When he was younger he would do anything to live with his father. The only things that kept them were her and the fear of the Dark Lord.
“It’s not that mom.” Xander had people to watch out for here he couldn’t just leave like that not when he was needed. “Buffy and Willow count on me, mom I can’t just leave them.”
“They count on you to get donuts?” Jessica kept track of her son to see what he has been up too and seen how the Slayer and Willow treated Xander. She hated how they treated her son. Alexander was a Snape a pure blood wizard. It was sickening to watch how he was ordered around by muggle teenage girls. “I’ve seen how they treat you Xander. You can’t fool me.”
It didn’t matter how he was treated they were still his friends and nothing would change that anytime soon. Xander wasn’t going to abaned him. “I’m sorry, but I’m not going mom. Dad would understand.”
Jessica stopped what she was doing to turn to her son. She had everything planned and Xander wasn’t going to miss that up for her. “It’s you that don’t understand Xander. I don’t want you here and neither does Tony. It’s time for you to live with Severus. From what I’ve learned of your friends it’s not like they’ll miss you. Severus plans for you to attend Hogwarts. You will make better friends.”
So she was being cruel. It wasn’t anything new.
“Willow and I have been friends since we were kids.” Xander knew Willow cared. She was the only one who seemed to care. “We’re best friends.”
Jessica groaned he wasn’t making this easy. She thought he would be happy at leaving Sunnydale. Xander never did like the place. “Xander I will not change my mind you are going. And if Willow was a good friend she would stand up for you and not let Fluffy walk all over you”
“It’s Buffy not Fluffy, mom.” Jessica never liked the Slayer and Xander always knew it. “Please I can’t leave. Not like this.”
“You don’t have a choice, Xander.” Jessica wasn’t going to change her mind. This was best for everyone. Xander would see that with time.
Xander wasn’t going to win this battle. His mother made up her mind and there wasn’t anything he could do to change it. Xander could only hope his father would let him come and visit and maybe help out if his help was ever needed. “I guess I better pack.”
“Might as well.” Jessica took out some lunch meat out of the refrigerator. She wasn’t much of a cook and wished she had a house elf or two. Perhaps she could talk Severus into sending her one. “How many sandwiches do you want?”
“Two are fine mom.” Xander wondered how Buffy and Willow would react when he told them. He was going have to tell them tonight. Oh, man he forgot an important detail. He couldn’t tell the others the truth. No one not even Willow knew he was from a magical family. Oh, Willow knew Xander had a real father out in England, but she never met them. “What am I going to tell Willow and the others?”
“You should tell them the truth just keep out the magical parts.” It was easy enough for Jessica. “Or you can leave and say nothing.”
“No, I can’t do it that way.” For one Willow and Buffy would worry and search for him. No, he had to tell them something.
Jessica shrugged not worrying about it. It was Alexander’s business what he told them not hers. She didn’t care if he told them about the Wizardry World or not. It wasn’t like she lived there any more and the Ministry couldn’t touch her here. “You’ll find a way.”
He wasn’t going to get any help here. Xander left the kitchen and went up to his room thinking maybe he’ll call Willow or better yet. He’s eyes lit up, why hadn’t he thought of this before. Xander could call Giles and tell him what’s going on. The Watcher knows about magic and is from England so maybe he knew about the Wizardry World. He could help Xander come up with a way to tell Willow and the others. Calling wasn’t going to work. Xander was going have to do this face to face.
“Mom, I’m going to Giles.” Xander ran back into the kitchen taking the sandwiches from her hand and high tailing it out of the house. He had to make his way across town to Giles’ apartment. Xander could hope the Watcher didn’t mind company.
It took him fifteen minutes to walk to Giles apartment building. He really needed to get himself a bike or something. All this walking wasn’t good for him. Xander took a deep breath then knocked on the door hoping Giles was home.
“Xander, why are you here?” Giles was surprised at seeing Xander at his door. He was about to have dinner when he heard a knock on the door.
Xander gave Giles his famous goofy smile. “Um, there is something I need your help with.”
Giles groaned and back away from the door to let Xander into the apartment. “Very well come in and tell me what’s wrong.”
“I’m moving, Giles.” Xander entered the apartment and sat on the sofa not looking Giles in the face. He didn’t know what all to tell the Watcher.
“Moving?” Xander now had Giles full attention. “Moving where, Xander?”
“I’m moving with my dad.” Let him figure that one out. Knowing Giles it wouldn’t take him long.”
“Harris is moving and taking you with him?” Giles was confused. Why would Harris take Xander? From what Giles knew of the man he hated his son.
“Tony isn’t my real dad, Giles.” Now that took Giles by surprised. He had no idea that Xander had another father out there. “My father lives in England. He’s going arrive tomorrow to pick me up.”
Xander’s father was English? Giles raised an eyebrow now that was something he would never have guessed. “So you are moving to England? What about school, Buffy, and Willow?”
“I don’t want to leave Giles.” Xander was frustrated about the whole mess. “I’ve no choice in the matter. I have to go. And on the school thing I’ll be going to Hogwarts. It’s the school my dad teaches at.”
Oh, boy.
“Your father teaches at Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry?” Okay, he did say what he thought he said. “Xander are you a wizard?”
“Yeah, I am.” Even though his mother tried to make him believe he was a squib. Xander wasn’t stupid he knew he wasn’t a squib having seen the small amount of magic he could do. The problem was he had no education because his mother and step-father always spent the money sent by his father. “I just had no education.”
“And why haven’t you?” Giles knew for a fact that America had several magic schools. Salem was as well known as Hogwarts.
“It’s a long story and let’s just let it go at that, Giles.” Xander didn’t want to get into the whole mess. He was sure when his father found out there was going to be pain. Tony and his dad really hated each other. “The reason I came here is because I need your help in telling Buffy and Willow that I’m leaving.”
“And you don’t want them knowing the whole truth.” The Wizardry World was secret and had to remain that way. Giles wasn’t a wizard, but he knew of the world because of his work with the Council. “Yes, I’ll be more then happy to help you Xander.”
Xander sighed in relief. “Thanks, I’ll appreciate it Giles.”
“May I ask you a personal question, Xander?” Giles asked there was something he really wanted to know.
“Sure.” Xander had nothing to hide from the Watcher. Will he didn’t anymore.
“Who is your real father?” Xander’s mother couldn’t be a witch. No witch or wizard would live on the Hellmouth. It was too dangerous because many demons would be after their magic.
“My father is Severus Snape.” Giles’ eyes widen in shock. Xander’s father was one of the youngest Potions Master in the world. He was brilliant and was well known for the potions he invented over the years.
“Dear God.” Giles didn’t know what to think. He knew Snape was famous because of his potions, but he also knew the wizard was a follower of Voldemort. Giles’ eyes narrowed, it would be too dangerous for Xander to go with his father.
Xander groaned he knew what Giles was thinking. “My father isn’t a Death Eater Giles; he is a spy for Dumbledore so please don’t try anything.”
“He is a spy for Albus Dumbledore?” You learn something new everyday even if you were and know it all Watcher. “Are you sure, Xander?”
Xander fault the urge to roll his eyes. “Yes, I’m sure.”
Giles nodded, he’ll let it go for now. He’ll pass judgment when he meets the Potions Master. “You will of course bring your father by so I may meet him?”
“Yeah, it’s no problem.” It wasn’t like he would have a chance. Xander had a feeling if he didn’t show up then the Watcher would hunt them down. “I better go.”
“I’ll see you at the library later.” Giles did promise to help Xander tell the girls about his leaving.
Xander groaned he almost forgot about telling his friends about his leaving. “Can’t you tell them and I’ll stay home.”
“No.” With that Giles showed Xander to the door.
Xander took a deep breath his hand on the door. He still hadn’t the courage to enter the library and face his friends, but he couldn’t stay out here forever. A part of Xander wanted nothing more then to do what his mother suggested and just leave without telling them. Xander groaned that wasn’t going to work since Giles knew everything. The last thing he wanted was Buffy and Willow hunting him down for answers.
“Something wrong, Xander?” Angel asked when he saw Xander standing in front of the door. He looked down at Xander studying his face and noticing Xander’s eyes. Something wasn’t right with the boy.
Oh, great things were getting better and better. Xander thought as he looked up at Angel. Dead boy was looking good in his black silk shirt. Xander groaned and felt his face heat up. “Everything is just peachy, Deadboy.” He forced a grin on his face not wanting to show that anything was wrong.
Angel raised one eyebrow not believing one word out of that boy’s mouth. “Sure what ever you say, Xander.” He opened the door. “Going in?”
Taking a deep breath Xander entered the library followed behind by Angel. Buffy, Willow, and Oz were all looking at him. Willow had tears in her eyes while Buffy was angry. Oz had no expression on his face. “Um…hi guys.”
“Giles told us you’re moving away.” Buffy was the first to speak up. She was angry at her friend in leaving them all behind. “Is that true?
This was Giles way of helping? At least he didn’t have to tell them now he had to answer their questions. Xander saw disappointment in Willow’s eyes. It nearly killed him to cause Willow pain. “Yes, I’m moving to England to live with my dad.”
“Do you have to go, Xander?” Unlike Buffy, Willow wasn’t angry she was hurt that Xander didn’t tell them himself.
“Yeah, my mom is kicking me out. I have no choice?” At least that part was true.
“You’re just going to leave us?” Buffy was angry very angry. Xander was supposed to stay in Sunnydale and help her in the fight against evil. What was she suppose to do if he leaves. Xander was the heart of the group. “I thought we are friends?”
“That’s enough, Buffy.” Giles knew what his Slayer was up too. She was using guilt as a way to make Xander stay. Buffy wasn’t thinking at all. “You are only thinking of yourself. Can’t you realize how hard it is for Xander?”
Oh my God, what kind of friend is she just thinking about herself. Willow jumped out of her chair and ran to put her arms around Xander hugging him tightly. “I’m so sorry!”
“Shh, it’s alright.” Xander hugged Willow back. His mother was wrong his friends did care. He looked at Buffy. At least Willow did for sure.
“Fine I don’t care if Xander moves.” Buffy crossed her arms over her chest. She didn’t that Xander was leaving. She could get on just fine with out him. Anyway she still had Giles, Willow, and Angel. Buffy smiled up at Angel. “I have you.”
Angel frowned down at the Slayer. She thought he was still attracted to her. Buffy couldn’t be more wrong. “Buffy, why are you acting like this?”
Buffy was confused. “I don’t understand? What am I acting like?”
“Like you don’t care about Xander’s leaving?” Angel hoped he was wrong and Buffy was keeping her emotions to herself.
Xander pulled back from Willow kissing her on the forehead before letting her go completely. It would be better if he left. Buffy didn’t want him around and Xander didn’t want to start an angument. It was better this way. “I guess I’ll leave. I have a lot of packing to do.”
“You’re packing now?” Willow’s eyes widen.
Xander nodded his eyes sad. “Yeah, my dad will be here tomorrow.”
“And you only told us now.” Buffy yelled Xander was hiding this from them for a long time. She was sure of it.
“My mom told me today.” Xander’s eyes narrowed. Buffy was trying to make him look bad. “I wasn’t hiding anything.”
“Whatever.” Buffy turned her head away.
Xander shook his head. Buffy wasn’t going to make say goodbye easy. He gave Willow, Oz, and Giles a sad smile and walked out the door. Not once did Buffy look as he walked away.
Chapter Two:
Sunnydale, California the home of the Hellmouth and other supernatural creatures. The place no sane witch or wizard would dare to visit much less live in. Severus couldn’t call himself sane not with some of the things he had done for the Light. Any sane wizard would never turn against the Dark Lord not if he wants to live. And Severus has betrayed Voldemort more times then he could count. When Jessica first moved to this dreadful town Severus thought it would be good for Alexander. The magic of the Hellmouth hid the magic from his son keeping him safe from the Dark Lord because there was no way to track him using magic. Jessica was under orders to sign Alexander up for Salem’s School for Witchcraft and Wizardry when he was of age so he could learn control. Severus now knew his ex wife has never signed up Alexander for anything. He was going to have to teach his son everything before school started. Lucky enough Severus had several spells that will help him teach his son five years of missed classes.
Sure they were dark magic, but what people didn’t know won’t hurt Severus. It isn’t like Alexander would tell on him. Severus couldn’t let his son start Hogwarts with no knowledge of what he was doing. This was for the best.
Severus appeared in front of his ex wife’s house several hours late. He was on a late mission for Dumbledore. It was a simple mission all he had to do with get a book from an old former Watcher. Severus swore next time Dumbledore could get his own book. He went up the porch and knocked on the door. Seconds later Jessica opened the door looking like she was in a fight. She had a black eye and a bloody lip.
This was Harris’ doing there was no doubt in Severus’ mind. He became worried about his son.
“Where is Alexander?” Severus demanded fearing the worst. It would seem Harris’ hasn’t learned his lesson about hitting his family. And before Severus left for good he was going to make sure Harris learned his lesson once and for all. The man wasn’t going to hurt anyone else.
Jessica opened the door wider letting Severus enter the house. She knew she looked bad because Tony was angry when he came home. Alexander was still at home when he arrived and Tony didn’t like it at all. So he beat the crap out of them and said he wanted Alexander gone by tomorrow morning. Jessica wasn’t to wonder if Severus was ever going to show up.
“Alexander is alright only a little bruised.” Jessica tried to explain trying not to flinch from the glare her ex husband was sending her. He didn’t seem to care that she was hurt. All Severus cared about was his son.
“Take me too him now, Jessica.” Severus demanded coldly. He wasn’t going to feel sorry for Jessica. She brought this mess onto herself and their son.
Jessica nodded and showed him to Alexander’s room. Their son was lying on the bed his face covered in bruises as was the rest of his body. Tony worked him over good and Jessica was glad that Alexander took most of his anger. Better him then she because she knew Severus would take care of him. She watched as Severus took several potions out of his robes and went to their son’s side.
“Alexander it’s time to wake up.” Severus gently shook his son to wake him up. He knew the boy was in pain. Severus was going to make Harris’ pay for every bruise he left on his son’s body.
Xander opened his eyes and smiled when he saw it was his father. His body was killing him, but it was good seeing his dad. Xander knew his father would make him feel better. “Hey, dad you’re late.”
“Yes, I know and I’m sorry.” Severus helped Xander drink the potions and watched as the bruises faded and the pain disappears from his son’s eyes.
“Thanks, I feel better now.” Xander could always count on his father’s potions to make him feel better. Sure they tasted like something you found on the bottom of your shoe, but they worked great.
“Can’t you stand up?” Severus planned to get Alexander far away from here as he can after he had a talk with Tony Harris.
“Yeah, I think I can.” Xander got out of bed and was once again thankful of his father’s potions as he stood up and didn’t feel any pain. “So when are we leaving?”
“Get your things ready I’m going to have a talk with your step father before we go?” Severus turned and was about to walk out the door to his son’s bedroom when Jessica stepped in front of him. “Get out of the way Jessica.”
“Tony isn’t here Severus.” Jessica wasn’t going to let Severus hurt her husband. Tony was her everything. It wasn’t Tony’s fault that he was angry it was Severus because he was late picking up Alexander. If he was on time none of this would have happened. “He’s out at a bar somewhere.”
“I’m not letting this go.” Severus felt pity for his ex and handed her a healing potion. “And if you have any brains you’ll leave that bastard and go home to your parents.”
“I’m not going back to the Wizardry World.” Jessica promised herself that she will never return to that place no matter what happened. She preferred Sunnydale then her parent’s home.
“Then take the money left over from Alexander’s support and leave here.” Severus might not love the witch anymore, but she is still the mother of his son.
Jessica smiled she was getting tired of the beatings and she always wanted to go to New York. “We’ll see Severus maybe I will.”
Xander grinned he wanted nothing more then for his mother to leave this place and make a new life somewhere else. Sure she wasn’t the best mother in the world and would only think about herself, but she was still his mother. Xander turned to his father there was something they had to do before they left the Hellmouth. “Dad we need to stop by Giles’ before we leave. I promised him I’ll drop by so you guys can meet.”
Severus sighed and nodded knowing what the Watcher really wanted. The Watcher may be a muggle however Severus was sure he knew about the Dark Lord and his followers and wanted to make sure he wasn’t a danger to Alexander. “Fine, we’ll see your Watcher before we leave.”
Xander gave his father a small smile. He had a bad feeling about his dad meeting Giles and the others. Xander knew Willow would be there and knowing his luck so would Buffy and Angel. “Let’s get on our way then.”
“Are you in a hurry, Alexander?” Severus didn’t blame his son. He wanted to leave this place as soon as he could. Sunnydale was darker then the Dark Forest.
“Yeah, I want to leave as soon as we can.” Xander didn’t want to stay around and see Buffy if he could get away with it. Knowing the Slayer they would end up fighting again.
Jessica kissed her son on the cheek and pulled back with a smile. She was going to miss her son and hoped he’ll be happy at Hogwarts. She never liked living in the Wizardry World and hoped for her son’s sake he would be happier there then here in Sunnydale. “Take care of yourself Alexander.”
Xander gave his mother a hug. He was going to miss her. “Take care of yourself mom and be happy.”
“It’s time to go Alexander.” Severus said gathering all of his son’s things shrinking them and placing them in his robes.
“Dad you need to change out of your robes.” They were going to walk to Giles and Xander didn’t want people to stare. The robes had to go.
“Fine I’ll take off my robes.” Severus hated coming to the muggle world. He felt naked without his robes, but he took them off showing a pair of black pants and a green silk shirt. “Better?”
“You’re looking good dad.” Xander was surprised that his father hadn’t remarried. Sure Severus Snape seemed like he was cold hearted and he was grumpy most of the time, but he was a good man and wizard. Xander grinned he was going to help his father leave the shadows and get himself a life. “Let’s get going. We don’t want to keep Giles waiting.”
It didn’t take long for them to arrive at the library and Xander guessed right. Giles wasn’t alone just like he figured. Willow was there as was Oz and Angel lucky enough Buffy was no where in sight.
“She’s out on patrol I figured you didn’t want her around when you came by with your father.” Giles studied the man with Xander. He was impressive to say the least and handsome in a dark mysterious sort of way. Giles heard a lot of rumors about Severus Snape one of them being he was a Death Eater and one of the Dark Lords favorite followers. If Xander was right then Snape was a spy for Albus Dumbledore and Giles knew the old wizard couldn’t be fooled. If Dumbledore says Snape is good then he was no questions asked. Giles stood up and walked over to the wizard holding out his hand to be shaked. “I’m Rupert Giles a friend of Xander’s it’s nice to meet you.”
“Severus Snape and I know you know who I am Mr. Giles.” Severus snarled at the Watcher. Just because he was a friend of his son doesn’t mean he had to be nice. Snape did not do nice.
“Dad please don‘t act like this?” Xander begged when he saw Giles frown. The Watcher frowning wasn’t a good thing. Someone usually got shout at when that happened. Xander shivered at the thought of Giles and his dad getting in a shouting fest.
“It’s alright Xander.” Giles glared at the wizard. He knew they weren’t going to get along. A small smirk crossed his lips. There was one thing Giles was sure of and that was Snape was going to make things interesting. “You’re about to leave?”
“Yes we must get back to England soon.” Severus answered for his son. He didn’t want to stay longer then he had too. “Alexander has much to do once we reach home.”
“Xander you’ll keep in contact right?” Willow asked finally getting the courage to speak. Xander’s father scared her the way he was glaring at everyone. “And try to visit?”
“I’ll write everyday.” Xander smiled at Willow he was going to miss her the most. He saw Oz nod at him and nodded back. Xander didn’t have to worry about Willow he knew Oz would take good care of her.
Angel stood in the shadow watching everything that was going on. Like Giles he knew what went on in the Wizardry World and that Xander’s father was involved in a big way. Angel was worried about Xander and the mess he would get himself in when he arrived in England. Xander was a demon magnet and it was because of his magic. The boy was very powerful because he lived most of his life on the Hellmouth. Angel knew the magic of the Hellmouth effected Xander greatly. “Xander are you sure you want to go with this wizard?”
“He is my father Deadboy.” Xander glared at the vampire. Angel always had to say something even when this mess didn’t deal with him. “Yes, I want to go with him.”
“He’s involved with a powerful evil wizard Xander.” Angel growled wanting the boy to see reason. Sure Snape might be Xander’s father, but that wouldn’t stop the man from giving his son to his Dark Lord. Spike his Childe was a wizard when he was mortal and his father was a dark wizard. Spike’s father wouldn’t have thought twice in selling his son for more power. “He can’t be trusted.”
“What Dark Lord?” Willow demanded if her Xander was in trouble then she wanted to know everything.
“Xander’s father is a dark wizard and he works for an evil man by the name of Voldemort.” Angel ignored the glare from Snape. He wasn’t afraid of the wizard since the killing curse had no effect on him. Angel was already dead.
Severus snarled at the vampire. The creature didn’t even know the full story and yet he was passing judgment. It wasn’t like Angel was perfect Severus knew all about Angelus and the Scourge of Europe. Angel was the last person to talk about past deeds. “I am no danger to my son and nor would I give him up to that evil bastard. I would rather be dead.”
“It’s alright Angel, Xander won’t be in any danger.” Giles spoke up wondering why Angel even cared. The vampire never did get along with Xander. “Mr. Snape works with Headmaster Dumbledore. He is a good guy.”
“Are you sure Giles?” Willow didn’t care if Snape was Xander’s father. If the man was evil then Xander wasn’t going anywhere with him.
“Yes, I am sure Xander will be in no danger with his father.” Giles smiled at Willow wanting to reinsure her. He knew she’ll worry herself sick otherwise. “I’ve already spoken with Headmaster Dumbledore and he was more then happy to explain to me about Snape. Everything will be alright Willow you can trust my word.”
Severus raised one eyebrow in surprise. He knew that Dumbledore knew some members of the Watcher’s Council, but he had no idea he knew the Sunnydale Watcher. Really Severus shouldn’t be surprised since Dumbledore always kept secrets. The Headmaster loved to shock people. “So you know that I am a spy, Watcher?”
“Yes, I was worried about Xander.” Giles allowed a smirk to cross his lips. “I wanted to make sure the boy was safe with you.”
“I can watch over my own son.” Severus was getting angry at these people. They really believed he would turn his own son to Voldemort. Severus wouldn’t turn his worst enemy to the Dark Lord.
“Then why haven’t you been around before.” Angel didn’t know why he was acting like this he shouldn’t care what happened to Xander. The boy hated his guts and Angel wasn’t too fond of the boy either. Still the kid was a friend and he didn’t want anything bad to happen to him. Angel even respected Xander. The boy had the courage to stand toe to toe with Angelus and live to tell the tale. “Why should Xander trust you?”
“And why should you care?” Xander yelled at the vampire. Angel was starting to piss him off. It wasn’t like he cared they hated each other. “We’re not even friends Angel so tell me why you even care?”
“I just do.” Angel has been asking him the same question. He and the boy had never gotten along and now he worried about Xander going off with his father. Giles wasn’t worried and Angel knew the Watcher wouldn’t let Xander go with someone who would harm him.
“I’m sure Angel has your best interest in mind.” Giles also wondered what was going on with the vampire. He thought Angel would be the first to see Xander go. It would seem everything wasn’t as it seemed.
“We don’t have time for this.” Severus said harshly wanting nothing more then to leave and by the look on his son’s face he wasn’t the only one. Xander’s face was flushed with anger. “It’s time for us to leave Alexander.”
“Xander isn’t going anywhere.” Angel snarled at the wizard not afraid of him at all. He grabbed Xander by the arm pulling him away from the other wizard. Angel couldn’t understand why he was acting like this only that he couldn’t allow Xander to go away. It bothered him and his demon. The thought of something happening to Xander while he was England by himself angered him greatly.
Xander tried to pull his arm free wondering what in the world was wrong with the vampire. Angel was even in his game face growling at his father. His dad stared back without flinching. Not surprising considering what Severus Snape has faced in his lifetime. “Angel let me go!”
“Angel what’s gotten into you?” Willow ran to Xander’s side to help him free himself. Oz watched from the sidelines thinking it was best if he stayed out of this mess. “You’re not acting like yourself.”
“And I can’t believe you are going to let Xander go without a fight.” Angel kept his hold on Xander. Willow pulled harder hoping to free her friend while Snape, Giles, and Oz watched.
Severus had enough of all of this crap and decided to do something about it. If the vampire was worried about Xander coming with him to England to he had a plan to make everyone happy. “Do you know anything about Defense Against the Dark Arts?”
Angel raised an eyebrow. Duh as Buffy would say of course he knows about DADA he was a vampire after all. Angel nodded his head wondering where Xander’s father was getting at.
“The Headmaster is still looking for a DADA professor and what better then a vampire with a soul.” If Severus knew the Headmaster as well as he thought he did Dumbledore would be overjoyed at the thought of Angel formally known as Angelus would be teaching at Hogwarts. “I think you should consider the job.”
“Dad what are you thinking? Have you gone mad?” Xander looked at his father in horror. His dad was offering Dead boy a job. A job at the same school Xander was going to be at. The vampire was still going to be around and that meant Buffy would be coming for visits.
Couldn’t his life get any worst?
“Who do I talk to about the job?” Okay Xander was wrong his life just got worst.
“Albus Dumbledore I can reach him for you.” Giles offered with a small smile. With Angel gone Buffy would be able to pay more attention to her slaying. She pays to much attention on the vampire more then she should. It wasn’t natural a Slayer being with a vampire. “I’ll contact him tonight for you Angel.”
Xander turned to look at his father. “You want Angel to come with us?”
“Perhaps having a vampire around would be a good idea.” Severus had many enemies and some of them would have no trouble making their way into Hogwarts. He knew his son could take care of himself, but extra protection could always be useful. “Even if said vampire was once Angelus.”
Angel glared at the wizard. Willow was grinning standing by the vampire. With Angel being close by she wouldn’t have to worry so much about Xander. She knew Angel would watch out for Xander. The only thing Willow worried about was how Buffy was going to react when she found out her crush was moving to England with Xander.
“We have to leave Dumbledore is waiting for us.” The Headmaster was excited about meeting his son and Severus didn’t want to keep him waiting.
“Be safe Xander.” Willow gave her friend another quick hug before stepping back. She watched as Xander smiled then walked away with his father.
Oz stepped behind his girl and placed an arm around her shoulders. He knew she was going to miss her best friend. Giles sighed wondering how he was going to handle his Slayer once she learned Angel planned to leave Sunnydale to join Xander in England.
Chapter Three:
Xander groaned when he landed on the floor on his face after being shot out of the fireplace. One thing was for sure and that was Xander hated magical travel. Being shot out of fireplaces wasn’t going to be one of his favorite ways to travel.
“Can we just take a plane next time, dad?” Xander asked after getting back on his two feet. He was dizzy and had to grab on to his father before he made a fool of himself again.
“The second time through the floo network is much better Mr. Snape.” Xander saw an old man smiling at him and wondered what color demon threw up on him. The old wizard had a long white beard with hair to match and he was wearing a bright green and purple robe. If Cordy saw this guy she would faint from the color shock alone. This guy had a worst fashion sense than he did.
“Alexander may I introduce you to Albus Dumbledore the Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.” Severus frowned at what the Headmaster was wearing. Sometimes he could swear the old wizard was trying to blind everyone by his robes. “Albus my son Alexander he prefers the name Xander.”
Dumbledore stepped forward and shook hands with Xander smiling the whole time. Xander smiled back it was hard not to smile at the colorful wizard, but he had a feeling some of the way the older wizard acted was just that an act. “It’s nice to finally meet you Xander I only know you from what your father told me.”
And it wasn’t much considering Severus wasn’t the type to talk about private matters. “Headmaster has a DADA professor been found yet?”
Dumbledore shook his head. “We’ve talked about this Severus you are already the Potions Professor adding another class will be too much.”
Severus sneered, it was nothing he couldn’t handle, but it wasn’t for him this time. “My son has a friend Angelus or Angel as he is being called now that he has a soul. He would like to put in for the DADA position.”
“Angelus, hmm.” Dumbledore knew all about the Scourge of Europe and Angelus the demon with the face of an Angel. A vampire with a soul who fought the very creatures he used to be. Yes, the Headmaster thought having a vampire with Angel’s background would be a good thing. He could help in the protection of Harry and teach the boy how to fight evil. “I believe Angel will fit in with us Severus he would have much to teach the children.”
Severus snorted knowing the Headmaster had other plans for the vampire. “The Slayer’s Watcher will contact you soon for the vampire. So if you will excuse us Headmaster I am going to take Xander to my apartment so he can rest.”
“Yes, of course I will see you both tomorrow at breakfast.” Dumbledore smiled cheerfully as Severus took his son and left the office.
Xander followed his father until they were standing in front of painting with a cobra. Severus turned his head to look at his son crossly. “The password to enter the rooms is bratty Gryffindor. Don’t share the password with anyone understand?”
“Yeah Dad I understand.” Xander knew how much his dad preferred his privacy. “And what’s with the Gryffindors?”
Severus glared at his son and then walked into the rooms followed by Xander. “There are four houses in Hogwarts with Gryffindor being the most annoying of them all. Then again don’t you know all of this Alexander?”
Xander shook his head. His mother didn’t talk about her school days or Hogwarts and his dad was busy with keeping an eye on an insane wizard. “All I know is mom and you were both in Slytherin.”
“Yes, and I’m the Head of Slytherin house now.” Severus went to his book shelf and took out A Hogwarts A History. “Here this will explain the houses and everything you need to know about Hogwarts.”
Xander caught the book his father threw at him and almost fell backwards. The book was as thick as his chest. “You expect me to read this?”
“Yes after your normal classes.” Severus opened the door on the right of his bedroom and entered. “This will be your room.” He took out his son’s stuff and unshrinking them. “The bathroom is the next door over.”
Xander nodded and went up to his bed. It was a twin, but big enough for him and the room was nice. There was a desk up against one wall with a book shelf filled with all the books he will need to catch up to his year. The room was a good size and there was a place to put his comic book collection and other collectables. “Thanks dad.”
“It’s good to have you here, Xander.” Severus gave a small smile and patted his son’s right shoulder. “I’ll leave you to unpack and rest tomorrow we will start on your education.”
“Goodnight dad.” Xander waited for his father to leave closing the door behind him. He was already missing his friends back in Sunnydale mostly Willow and Giles. Xander opened his suitcase and began to unpack making his room more livable. It was going to take time getting used to living here. Xander sighed and sat at the edge of his bed. This was his new home and he was going to have to get used to it.
Giles did as he promised and contacted the Headmaster of Hogwarts and it seemed Xander’s father beat them to it. Angel was offered the job of DADA Professor and he wasted no time in taking it. The vampire couldn’t understand the need of being close to Xander. He felt like he had to be near the boy and his demon felt the same way. It was strange having the soul and demon agreeing on something.
“Buffy isn’t going to like this.” Willow snuggled into Oz’s arms staring at Angel sadly.
“This is something I have to do Willow and Buffy has no part of it.” Angel sat down across from Giles and looked straight at Buffy. No one else noticed when she walked in.
“I have no part of what?” Buffy asked looking around at everyone. “What’s going on guys? Did Xander already leave?”
“Xander left awhile ago Buffy.” Giles was disappointed in his Slayer. Xander was her friend and he even saved her life. “However Angel was talking about his new job.”
“I was hired as a Professor at the same school Xander’s father works at.” Angel watched as rage entered the Slayer’s face. “I can teach kids how to fight the dark and survive.”
Buffy couldn’t believe this! Angel was leaving Sunnydale and she wasn’t happy at all about it. She thought given time the vampire would fall in love with her, but how can that happen if he leaves. “Why do you want to leave? We need you here Angel with Xander gone.”
Angel sighed, and placed his hands in his lap glaring at Buffy. “Buffy you are the Slayer this is your destiny. I haven’t found my destiny and going to Scotland helping and teaching students maybe I can find my way. This is something I have to do Buffy.”
“Can’t you do it here, Angel?” Buffy begged going up to Angel and kneeling next to him. She wanted to keep him here next to her. “You can teach us.”
It was clear to Angel she wasn’t going to listen to reason. He looked at Giles and saw how upset the Watcher was getting at his Slayer. “It’s not my job to teach you Buffy. You have a Watcher to teach you everything you need to know.”
“It’s you I need Angel.” Buffy cried out not caring how she hurting Giles. “Please don’t go.”
“You don’t know what you need.” Angel stood up pushing Buffy away when she grabbed him. He looked at Giles and shook his head. “Maybe you need to consider a different path. It’s clear you aren’t respected here.”
“Maybe you are right.” Giles spoke coldly not taking his eyes off of Buffy as she kept on begging the vampire to stay.
Angel waved his goodbyes and walked out. There was packing to be done and a new place to go.