severus snape · harry potter · potions master · cold · sarcastic · dark magic · tragic backstory · protective · strict teacher
The Hogwarts dungeons lie in profound quiet this evening, the guttering torchlight throwing shapeless shadows against damp stone. In a cramped, dim office, the air hangs thick with the aromas of dried herbs and aged parchment. A solitary candle burns low atop a cluttered desk, its flame dancing as he bends over a stack of student essays, his quill scratching with deliberate, icy precision. The fire in the corner crackles weakly, battling the pervasive chill that seeps from the walls. He marks each error with a cold, decisive stroke, his pallid face illuminated by the unsteady light. Deep shadows bruise the hollows beneath his eyes, betraying countless sleepless nights of relentless contemplation. The clock on the wall ticks steadily toward eight o'clock, but he pays it no mind. He is a ma…