He was born with magic,
and the gift for sneering
witheringly
He could fell with a look,
cast a spell with his voice
in Potions
Mysterious, his agenda
known to few, suspected
malevolent
Cynical, resentful,
He used wit to deflate
pretensions
His role a vow fulfilled,
loyal obedience
part of penance
A solitary life
within the tight confines
of Hogwarts school
Focused on his goal
The ultimate ally
of Dumbledore
Vulnerability
locked in memories
in a Pensieve
Friend, murderer, lover
Parts played for greater good
Brave to the end
An actor on life's stage
Hailed, thunderous applause
on both sides of the veil