Someone said this was a "roller coaster ride" and that is *so* apt. I remembered reading that someone had extreme angst planned so I thought he was really dead...the emotion is so raw and real... just WOW.
(not in a good way at the time...it HURT. But I'm in awe of your writing.)
I remember the few times that I was told someone I loved was dead and it felt *just like that*. When Harry showed back up (and luckily for his life he explained why he took so long) I was just as happy as Severus to see him.
But my favorite line of all:
"You may follow me if you wish, but only after you are assured I am well and truly dead.""
So perfect. I bow to the master, beautifully done.