Title: Winter Kills, V Challenge: Photo of tree Word Count: 100
Maggie had planted the tree at her husband’s funeral, and Remus had cast an acceleration spell so it would grow quickly. Jean Lupin’s ashes had fertilized it, his wife’s tears had watered it, and his son’s magic had nurtured it into a landmark.
“So.” Severus gestured to the bundle of branches. “This is – good God, Lupin, this is ghoulish. Your father – “
“ – would thank you. The tree needed to be pruned.” Remus smiled, very faintly. “You’ve given it life, and the deadwood will give life to others. He’d be happy.”
Severus bowed his head. What could he possibly say?