The all-encompassing pain sent Severus to his knees instantly. Having exhausted himself, he had no strength to resist the curse. Harry had closed their connection. When he choked on a sob, Harry softly pulled down the Dark Lord's arm, ending the curse. Severus was trembling all over as the pain ceased. Behind him, he heard Lucius take a step forward. Yet Voldemort stopped him before the Lord could reach his friend. Severus couldn't hold it against him, though he would have appreciated the support. Slowly lifted his head, he looked at his former and current master. They towered over him like vengeful gods. Once more, the similarity between them took his breath away. He fought not to flinch when Voldemort gripped his hair and pulled him up. Red eyes burned into him. "No matter how much *my Horcrux* values you, if you ever do something like this again, his sympathy won't save you."