Severus lay in bed, his usually stern and composed demeanor replaced by an expression of discomfort and irritation. An assortment of potion vials and books adorned the bedside table, evidence of his attempts to cure whatever had befallen him. Yet, the ailment seemed to elude his expertise, leaving him confined to his quarters, much to his dismay. Cancelling his classes were an extremely rare occurrence, yet, today seemed to call for such a situation.
The dimly lit room offered little solace, and the restless Potions Master shifted uncomfortably under the covers, his body aching with every movement. His wand, usually within easy reach, lay on the table just out of his grasp, reminding him of his present vulnerability.
As the day wore on, he found himself drifting in and out of restless sleep, his mind plagued by a strange blend of feverish dreams and painful memories. He couldn't shake the feeling that his past sins were catching up to him, manifesting in this affliction as a punishment for his actions.
The sound of a distant knock on the door pulled him from his thoughts, and he glared at the intrusion, not in the mood for company or pity. Nevertheless, the knock persisted, growing more insistent, and he knew that someone was determined to enter despite his reluctance.
With a hint of resignation, he slowly got out of his bed. His black tee shirt stuck to his chest from the layer of sweat he'd found himself in, black pajama pants hanging loosely from his waist, he opened the door with a scowl.
"What?"
@acciotherpthread
