Re: Downplaying Mulciber's actions
So now my previous comment has me thinking of the following AU:
In the 7P battle, after Moody's death Voldemort concentrates on Kingsley and hermione. Meanwhile Harry instead of using Stupefy and Expeliarmus on DEs decides to use Sectumsempra (up to the anyone to decide where he aims it, how much damage he causes etc). So the DEs do not identify him as 'the real one'. Voldemort kills Hermione, thinking she is Harry. In the aftermath when it turns out Harry knew Sectumsempra Severus is in trouble with Voldemort. So now Harry has to complete his quest without Hermione, and Severus has to get himself out of a tight spot for the sake of the students and Harry's mission.
In the 7P battle, after Moody's death Voldemort concentrates on Kingsley and hermione. Meanwhile Harry instead of using Stupefy and Expeliarmus on DEs decides to use Sectumsempra (up to the anyone to decide where he aims it, how much damage he causes etc). So the DEs do not identify him as 'the real one'. Voldemort kills Hermione, thinking she is Harry. In the aftermath when it turns out Harry knew Sectumsempra Severus is in trouble with Voldemort. So now Harry has to complete his quest without Hermione, and Severus has to get himself out of a tight spot for the sake of the students and Harry's mission.