A/N: The challenge was to write a drabble involving quill and ink. I imagine this to be the most difficult letter Severus ever wrote.
Disclaimer: Harry Potter, Severus Snape, and all their associates are characters belonging to J.K. Rowling. I claim no rights to them, their surroundings, or their situations. Much to my sorrow.
Prodigal
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His hand shook uncontrollably, ruining his first attempt. Several firewhiskeys later, he tried again, and did reasonably well until his white-knuckled grip on the quill snapped it in two.
Cursing, he flung the broken instrument across the room and sat for some time, head in hands, trying to school himself to calm.
Finally he sharpened a new quill, and began a third time, writing with exaggerated care:
Professor Dumbledore,
I accept. Expect my arrival at Hogwarts within the week.
If I do not appear, you should find another Potions instructor, as I will be...indefinitely detained.
Sincerely,
Severus Snape