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Original Sin
2:
Zinni

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"...Harry mate... You're awake already?"
Ron rubbed his eyes as he saw his friend sitting at his desk. He turned to the clock, which showed it was still 6:47am.

"I slept at nine yesterday, Ron. I had enough sleep. You ready for the game?"
Harry continued to write as he responded.

"Ready as ever," Ron yawned, "...are you doing schoolwork again, mate?"

Harry laughed.
"No. I'm writing to Sirius."

"...How is he and Professor Lupin?"

"They're well... Doing a little cleaning at Grimmauld Place, I guess."

"Cleaning... that's good..."
Ron was about to go back to sleep.

Harry chuckled and finished his letter. He stood up to go to the owlery when Ron suddenly yelled his name.

"What??"

"Bugger, I almost forgot! Dumbledore said he wants to see you."

"Now?"

Ron shrugged. "I don't know... He said to tell you when you wake up, so I guess..."
He yawned and dropped his head on the pillow again.

Harry couldn't think of any reason Dumbledore would have to see him so early. The only thing that came to mind was that snake.

"I hope nothing happened to him..."
Harry hoped as he walked through the halls.

Some students were up already and heading for the Great Hall for breakfast. Few of them greeted him while others ignored him completely. Harry stopped in front of the stairs to the owlery, but decided he should go see the headmaster first. He kept on walking until he reached the gargoyle.

"Uh... Fruit Loops?"
Harry carefully said, and sighed in relief as the stairs started to ascend.

"Harry, my boy. Good morning."
As soon as he reached the top, he was greeted with a warm welcome.

"Good morning, sir."
Harry smiled and took his usual seat across from the headmaster.

"It looks as though you had a long goodnight rest."

Harry nodded.
"I did, sir. I wanted to be ready for today's game."

"Very good, Harry. I'll be cheering for you."

"Thank you, sir."
Harry smiled back and waited. Surely, this wasn't just about today's Hufflepuff game, was it?

"Have you had any breakfast yet, Harry?"
Dumbledore suddenly asked.

"No, sir..."
Harry answered, getting more uncomfortable. What was this about?

::Oh, get to the point, Albus!::
Harry jumped as the snake around Dumbledore's arm hissed.

"Uh... He just said get to the point..."
Harry pointed at the reptile.

The twinkling blue eyes and the deep black eyes focused on Harry. "You understood, Harry?"

Harry nodded, relieved that he still understood Parseltongue. He thought for a while and then he nodded to himself as he finally solved the puzzle.

"Care to share your thoughts, Harry?"
Dumbledore looked interested.

"It's nothing important, sir," Harry shook away his thoughts, "um... you wanted to see me about something?"

Snape wanted to press further, but kept quiet. He didn't want to give out his identity just yet. He instead chose to observe the boy while he let Dumbledore do all the talk.

"Yes, Harry. Since you haven't ate yet, I'll get right to the point. I want you to take a physical examination, Harry."

"Uhh... Why, sir?"
Harry blinked. He was expecting many things from his headmaster, but certainly not this...

"I am concerned from the earlier events...," Dumbledore sighed, "that you might be injured…."

"Madam Pomfrey already checked my wounds, sir. And I don't have any pain."
Harry shrugged, as casually as possible. But both professors knew it was a flat out lie. Maybe the boy wasn't hurt physically, but mentally, the boy was still carrying the burden of the death of his fellow student.

"I know, Harry. But Madam Pomfrey wants to double check before the game. She doesn't want you visiting her afterwards again."
Dumbledore winked.

Harry smiled and nodded.
"Okay, sir. I'll go after breakfast, if that's alright?" Dumbledore nodded, "is that all, sir?"

"Yes, Harry. Sorry to keep you."

"See you at the game, professor."
Harry waved and left for breakfast.

"Satisfied, Severus?"
Dumbledore asked as he sipped his tea. The snake just hissed for response.

'That was too easy... I was expecting him to resist a little more...'
Snape glared back at the door where Harry disappeared.

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"Everything is normal... Except,"
Pomfrey held Harry's wrist. She was indicating the scratches on the back of his hand.

"Oh... Hermione's cat scratched me... We were playing around."
Harry blurted, apologizing mentally to Crookshanks. He didn't want anyone confronting Umbridge, for he was sure it would make things worse. He was relieved when Pomfrey didn't press further.

"You are in a very healthy state, Mr. Potter," she scribbled on her note, "lets keep it that way, shall we?"

Harry chuckled and put his clothes back on. He was so glad this was today.

"Though you can add a little more fat on you. Feel free to splurge on food once in a while."
With that, the medi-witch left the infirmary.

"It's not like I'm on a diet or something."
Harry grunted as he realized this was déjà vu. It wasn't his fault that he was short and skinny. It had to be genetics, but then, his father didn't look this small on pictures. All these years, Harry had one hope that if he continued Quidditch, he'll look more like his father. It was a very slow process, but as he felt the hard abdominal muscles, he knew he was getting somewhere.

"Harry, are you dressed?"
Hermione asked as she stood by the entrance.

"Yeah. You can come in."
Harry answered. He thought it was weird that girls would be embarrassed to see topless boys. Isn't it the other way around?

"Well, what's the verdict?"

"Hundred percent healthy. I don't know why Dumbledore is fussing over this. It's not like I haven't been bitten by a Basilisk before."
Harry laughed. But Hermione just bit her lip.

"Harry,... I'm sorry. It's my fault. I told the professor you weren't yourself lately... No, not lately... Just sometimes... you act so... un-Harry like..."

"Is that even a word, Hermione?"
Harry narrowed his eyes.

"Oh, you know what I mean!"
Hermione laughed and hit Harry with a pillow. She was very relieved that Harry wasn't upset with her.

"I'm fine, Hermione. Bugger!! I've been telling you so all along, haven't I? And now, I got a powerful medi-witch to back me up. So there."
Harry got up and stretched.

"All right then."
Hermione fixed the pillow back.

"Where's Ron?"

"He's at the pitch practicing."

"Well, then. I have to hurry."
Harry grabbed his robes and headed out. Hermione followed.

"Harry?"

"Yeah?"

"You know you can tell us... if there's something bothering you," Harry gave her a face, "...or Dumbledore. Tell him, then. You know that we're all concerned, right?"

"I know, Hermione. I'm just concerned that people around me will die worrying sick about me."

"You clot!"
Hermione tried to slap Harry's shoulder, but he was faster.

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"Fred, cover Harry!"
Angelina Johnson yelled as Harry went for the Golden Snitch. As he passed the Bludger, Fred quickly flew to bat it out of the way.

"Alicia!!"
Johnson passed the Quaffle to Spinnet as she blocked Summerby who was intending to intercept.

Fred and George got on either side of Spinnet as she made her way to the hoop. Hufflepuff players quickly formed a defense position.

"Go through the middle!"
George said as he sped up.

"But it's all blocked! We can't get through!!"
Spinnet tried to turn away, but Fred interfered.

"Just go!-!"
The twins said as they kept their guard around the Chaser.

They got through five players, but Hufflepuff Keeper and Beater stood firm as they realized which hoop the Gryffindors were going for. The Hufflepuff Beater turned to make eye contact with the Keeper, but he quickly shouted.
"Watch out!-!-!"

The Keeper turned to see the Bludger was on its way towards him. He dodged just in time, but leaving the Beater to defend alone.

"Go for it!!"
Fred yelled as he and his brother blocked the Beater, leaving the hoop wide open for Spinnet to throw.

"And the Gryffindor scores! They have the comfortable lead of 230-80!"
Lee Jordan announced as the crowd cheered.

"I should stick to the Snitch... but"
Harry thought about Ron as he continued to chase the Golden Snitch. It was his friend's first year and he really looked nervous. The Hufflepuff Seeker, Summerby, was not too behind. Harry extended his hand as the Snitch flew in a steady line. Just as his index finger made contact, the Bludger sneaked up from below and tipped the tail of his broom. Harry flipped and almost fell off but retrieved his hand in time and took control over the broom.

"You alright, mate?-!"
Fred asked as he flew by.

"Yeah."
Harry nodded as he looked around for the Snitch. Summerby was still chasing it, but was looking back to see if Harry was okay.

"Harry, are you up for it?!"
Johnson called out as she, once again, caught the Quaffle.

"Yeah."
Harry quickly turned to the direction of the Snitch and was off in an instant.

It only took seconds to catch up with Summerby. Harry gave a nod to his fellow player that he was okay as he sped up and advanced to the Snitch again. The two Seekers extended their hands as they were just inches away from the Golden Snitch. Just when their hands were centimeters away, someone called out.

"Watch out!!"

Harry was the first to notice the bludger and ducked below while Summerby was not as lucky. The black iron ball came in contact with his shoulder and the Seeker fell off the broom. Harry gasped as Summerby hit the ground hard. It was fortunate they were not far from the ground.

"Oh, that got to hurt!! Hufflepuff Seeker, Summerby, is knocked off the broom by the bludger."
Lee Jordan said as the audience watched Summerby slowly stand up. Everyone, especially the staff, sighed out in relief.

"Summerby is up and taking off as if nothing happened! It's a big relief for the Hufflepuffs since it's all up to their Seeker now."

Harry exhaled as he looked around the pitch. He saw Ron waving at him and gave him a thumb up.

"Nice dodge, Harry!"
Fred slapped him on the shoulder as he flew his way to Spinnet. She was on her way to the hoop again with the Quaffle.

"Remember our strategy!"
Johnson commanded as she flew next to Spinnet. George hit the Bludger away while Fred made his way behind the Hufflepuffs defense. Harry remained in the middle of the pitch, eyes constantly looking for the Snitch. Two pairs of Gryffindor Chasers and Beaters effortlessly made their way towards the hoop. Spinnet passed the Quaffle to Johnson who immediately threw it to the hoop. But they have underestimated the Hufflepuff Keeper, who caught the Quaffle right before it went through.

"Back!!"
Johnson ordered her team to go back as the Quaffle was passed all the way to the middle of the pitch to the Hufflepuff Chaser.

"Cor blimey!-!"
Harry cried as he forced his tired body to interfere. But the Chaser dodged around and made his way to the hoop, which was only guarded by Ron.

"Ron!!"
Harry called as he made his way to assist his friend. The other team members rushed to do the same, but the Hufflepuffs maneuvered the Bludger so that they couldn't.

"Zacharias, go for it!-!"
Summerby yelled.

Smith nodded in confirmation as he swerved passed Ron and threw the Quaffle through the hoop. It was a clean goal.

"Hufflepuff scores!-! But they are still way behind with 230-90!"
Jordan announced as the crowd cheered for the Hufflepuffs. Most of the Slytherins that were there wanted them to win too.

Harry sped up to catch up with the Snitch again. He knew the Hufflepuff Beaters would target solely on him. Summerby was soon by his side. Their hands, once again, extended to the Golden Snitch.

"...Cedric?"
Harry thought he saw Cedric flying beside him instead of Summerby. He was completely taken by surprise that it didn't occur to him he was flying straight to the stands.

"HARRY!-!"

He snapped in attention and pulled his broom up to avoid the stand just in the nick of time. Summerby kept the steady persuit of the Snitch. Harry shook off his thoughts and flew his way to Summerby, but the Beaters were not letting that happen. They surrounded Harry in attempt to knock him off course. Harry tried to shake them off but they were very persistant. The Bludger brushed against his broom, which caused him to spin out of control. But as a veteran player, Harry quickly took control and sped up to interfere Summerby. But it was all in vain. The Hufflepuff Seeker caught the Golden Snitch.

"They have done it, ladies and gentlemen!!! Due to the motivated determination of their Seeker, Hufflepuffs has ended their losing streak to the Gryffindors!! They win the game with 230-240!!"
Lee Jordan's announcement was almost swallowed by the crowd's cheer. The Hufflepuffs, along with some Slytherins, applauded and screamed their excitement.

"Good game."
Summerby said as Harry landed next to the Hufflepuff Seeker. Harry nodded and shook hands. Surprisingly, he didn't feel bad losing to them at all. He kind of felt the Hufflepuffs deserved it.

His teammates came by and patted Harry's shoulder. He could tell Johnson was very upset, not particularly at him though. She knew Harry gave his best shot and the rest of her team should have covered Harry. He was practically alone out there.

"...Sorry, mate... I let everyone down.."
Ron sighed as Harry walked over to him. He only blocked the Quaffle two times. Harry patted his friend's shoulder.

"This is your first year, Ron. You'll do better next time."
'Not like I did any better.' Harry thought as he recalled the image of Cedric. He knew his mind was playing tricks on him, but he swore he looked so real... Like he was really alive and enjoying the game again. It was only because Ron called his name Harry avoided serious injury.

"Tell them that."
Ron glared at the Slytherins. Harry looked over and saw a big sign that read; 'All hail, King Weasley!!'

"Ignore them, Ron."
Harry guided his friend to the lockers.

"Fucking arseholes."
Ron muttered.

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The Gryffindor team got many encouragements at dinner. Ron was still upset but the sight and scent of delicious food was a perfect remedy. Harry and Hermione was relieved their friend was simple minded.

"That was a good game, Harry. I'm looking forward to our game."
Harry was surprised to say the least when Cho Chang came by the Gryffindor table.

"Uhh... Thanks."
Harry hoped he was smiling. As she walked to the Ravenclaw table, everyone whistled.

"Wooh, Harry! You're not going to let it end there, are you?"
Fred elbowed Harry who was beginning to blush.

"Go chat her up, mate!"
George beamed.

"No... She's eating. I don't want to bother her..."
Harry mumbled as he stuffed his mouth with herb chicken.

"It's no use. He's kind of turning into a swot."
Ron pointed out.

"You're the one who only caught two Quaffles."
Ginny reminded.

"Belt up, sis."
Ron retorted.

Everyone laughed as they continued to talk about the game. They complimented on the Hufflepuff's improvement. Harry couldn't help as he felt a stinging sensation in his heart as he remembered Cedric. Was it guilt? Maybe that was why he didn't feel bad about losing...

"You all played very well today."
Everyone stopped talking and turned to see Dumbledore standing behind Harry.

"Thank you, headmaster."
Johnson stood and smiled, though everyone could tell she was not very happy with today's game.

"With you as a captain, Ms. Johnson, I am not bit worried that Mr. Wood is not with us anymore."
Dumbledore praised. Johnson blushed and opened her mouth, but nodded instead.

"Harry, I have a favor to ask you."
Dumbledore knelt down and whispered.

"Yes, professor?"

"Would you mind looking after our little friend for a while?"
Dumbledore held up his arm to reveal the dark snake. The twins and several other students scooted away as it gave a menacing hiss.

"Uhh, I wouldn't mind... But I don't think I would be his first choice... Shouldn't you ask Hagrid, sir?"
Harry looked at the snake and then back at Dumbledore.

"On the contrary, my dear boy. He is quite fond of you," the snake gave a loud hiss, "see that?"

"Um... actually, that was just a hiss... A rather... threatening hiss..."
Harry informed, hoping Dumbledore would change his mind.

"Nonsense, Harry. Your house members wouldn't mind, do you?"
Dumbledore looked at his Gryffindors with twinkling eyes. No one could do anything but nod.

"It's settled then. You are gifted to have the ability to communicate, Harry. You'll meet his needs more than I," Dumbledore almost pushed the snake in Harry's hands, "he is allowed to leave and enter the school grounds freely, so do not worry if he disappears once in a while."
With that, Dumbledore went to the head table.

Harry was left with the dark snake coiling around his arm.

"Bloody hell, Harry," Ron screwed his face, "being a Parselmouth is a curse."

Harry sighed deeply as he put his arm down to avoid gaining more attention. He knew it was too late though. He could literally feel the entire school watching him.

"Is he still sick?"
Hermione asked.

"No... I mean, not anymore.."
Harry quickly corrected himself. He felt the snake staring at him inquisitively.

"So you can understand him?" Harry nodded, "what's his name?"

"Never mind that. Is he venomous?"
Fred pointed the snake with his fork.

"I think so," Harry received several shocked looks, "Hagrid said he's a... some kind of viper."

"Merlin!-! Why is the professor making you keep that thing!-?"
Ginny gasped. Everyone seemed to agree with her.

Harry shrugged.
"I don't know..."
'But then, there are many questions I would like to ask Dumbledore myself…'

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Earlier that morning...
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::...This cannot be... Ask Poppy to double check::
Snape looked at Harry's physical and hissed.

"I am sure Poppy is very capable of determining something that obvious, Severus."
Dumbledore chuckled.

::I know what I saw, Albus::

"You know," Dumbledore began as he sipped his tea, "I've heard snakes do not have a very good sight."

::Damn it, Albus! I know what I saw!! Don't you think I probably know the anatomical differences between male and female?-!::

Dumbledore sighed as he looked at Snape as if to a stubborn child.
"We cannot keep asking him for a checkup, Severus. Wouldn't it be easier if we simply ask?"

::Whatever is happening to that boy, Albus... he's been keeping it from us for five years. You think he'll confess that easily?::

Dumbledore picked up the physical from Poppy. He could not understand why Snape insisted on what he saw that particular night when the evidence is right here.

"Then what do you suggest we do, Severus? Are you going to keep an eye on Harry?"
Dumbledore asked, doubtfully. He was certain Snape would dissent, so he almost dropped his teacup when the snake nodded in affirmative.

"Severus...," Dumbledore sighed, "I cannot allow you to deceive Harry."

::We're not deceiving him, Albus. We have to be sure our young hero is well taken care of::
Snape snorted, which sounded like a exasperated hiss.

Dumbledore thought for a while and finally gulped his remaining tea. He nodded.
"On one condition... You may not use whatever information you obtain about Harry against him or his friends... You are spying, after all."
Dumbledore grabbed his robes to head out for the Hufflepuff-Gryffindor game. Snape slowly crept his way up his arm.

::Spying is what I do best, Albus. Don't forget.::

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So it began... Harry, the snake-sitter.
Everywhere he went, people heard hisses and tried but failed to ignore. They all wondered what the two were talking about. The Creevy brothers wanted to record it on tape, but got a deadly glare from the snake. Though Harry tried to start a conversation, the reptile limited his answer to a 'no', a nod, and an annoyed hiss.

"For a reptile who's fond of you, he sure seems to ignore you as much as he can, Harry."
Ron narrowed his eyebrow at dinner.

It has been a week since Dumbledore left the creature in Harry's care, but the snake never revealed his name. Hermione presumed he didn't have one and suggested Harry to name him. However, Harry could not come up with one. The ones his friends came up with, the snake gave a hideous hiss and slithered away.

"Did he eat already?"
Hermione asked and gave an attempt to pet him, but the snake pulled away. He never warmed up to anyone.

"Yeah, Hagrid gave me a whole rabbit. I had to cut it in half so he could swallow it."

"And I helped."
Ron bragged.

"Okay, I really love to listen to you guys talk about chopping rabbits, but I don't think it's a proper dinner conversation."
Ginny sighed. The image of the snake swallowing anything sickened her. Ever since the Basilisk incident, she has grown a fear of snakes. She wondered how Harry could put up with them.

"How are you doing on the Herbology essay, Hermione?"
Neville Longbottom asked as he sat across from Harry. He was getting help on Potions from her, so he gave her a hand on his favorite subject.

"I finished it last night. Could you proof read it?"

"Sure."
Neville looked happy he could return the favor. Hermione had been such a great tutor, he actually finished his Potions essay on time.

"Hey, do you know who's going to take over Potions?"
Fred scooted next to Ginny as George followed, smirking.

So far, Dumbledore has been assigning simple brewing for Potions class and the Gryffindors loved it. Of course, not just Gryffindors but Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs as well. Neville was more comfortable with Dumbledore's presense that he actually managed to complete the solution without blowing it up. Slytherins did not like that at all. The best part of Potions was to see Neville covered in goo as Gryffindors lose enough points to put them in lead. They desperately wanted Snape back.

"Don't tell me..."
Harry groaned as the image of Umbridge popped in his mind. He knew she was born to make his life miserable.

"It's not She-who-must-not-be-named, Harry."
George smiled. The twins and Harry shared a mutual feeling towards the DADA professor.

"I'll give you guys a hint."
Fred pryed his eye open with his fingers as he yelled, "Constant vigilance!!"

"Mad Eye Moody??"
Harry, Hermione, and Ron gasped in unison.

"Yep. He arrived just minutes ago. Went to Dumbledore's office."
The twins looked proud.

"So that's why he was here a week ago... A backup professor in case Snape didn't return. I didn't know he could teach Potions."
Ron sounded content. He'd rather have the old creepy ex-Auror than the greasy 'I-only-like-Slytherins' Snape.

"Professor Snape is not back yet? Anything from Dumbledore?"
Hermione whispered to Harry, for they were the only ones that knew Voldemort could be involved.

"No," Harry shook his head, "...do you think.."
Harry trailed off. He was almost afraid to say it.

"I think Professor Snape would be more useful alive than dead, Harry. Voldemort would probably use him as a bait for Dumbledore."
Hermione speculated.

'I'm sitting right under your noses, you fools.'
Snape complained in his mind as he fizzed.

"What did he say?"
Hermione looked down at the snake curiously.

"The ususal... A snort of some kind."
Harry sighed. He had grown tired of asking what was wrong every time the snake made a repulsive sound.

"You know, you should really give him a name Harry. That might lighten his indifferent attitude a little."

"Be my guest."
Harry moved to hand the snake to Hermione, but the creature tightened his body around his arm.

"Professor Dumbledore was right," Neville chuckled, "he is very fond of you."

"Or it's trying to kill Harry any chance it gets," Ron pointed, "I swear that thing looks as though it wants to bite your head off, mate."

Snape realized Ron wasn't as stupid as he thought. In fact, there were times when the boy called him 'Snape's evil spirit', for Ron was sure if Snape was dead, he would take the form of a snake and come back to haunt the Gryffindors. Snape wondered amusingly if Ron could be more observant than Hermione.

"Um.. Harry?" Neville lowered his voice as he leaned in close, "can I bring Luna to the next D.A. meeting?"

Snape slightly raised his head to listen. Harry nodded happily.
"Of course. She's welcomed to join too."

Neville sighed in relief and smiled.

"What are we learning next, Harry? How 'bout some more hexes?"
Ron gave a mischievous smile that looked exactly like the twins. To Harry and Hermione's horror, Ginny was giving the same look. The girl was not good at defense, but she was actually quite skilled when it came to hexes.

"I think we should continue blocking, Ron," the two Weasleys looked disappointed, "you and some others haven't really accomplished it last time."

"Our whole goal is to learn defense, Ron. Not getting back at Malfoy."
Hermione added.

'Though it would be nice to learn both.'
Harry thought as he turned back to Neville.
"Have you been practicing?"

Neville nodded excitedly.
"I can actually put up a shield on my first try, Harry. You want to see it??"
He digged his hand in his pocket to retrieve his wand.

"Neville, you can show me on the next meeting. Okay?"
Harry placed his hand over Neville's before anything happened. Neville frowned but put his wand away.

"Besides, you can show Luna."
Harry teased. This time, Neville blushed and nodded.

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"See. I bet this is the one. Asp Vipers."
Hermione pointed at the picture in the book.

The three Gryffindors decided to do some research about the snake. They sat in the library while flipping through the pages.

"But he's all black. Those snakes look pretty colorful."
Ron pointed out.

"But look," Hermione pushed the book to Ron, "the patterns on his back. Two black lines merging in a zigzag. You can hardly tell, but if you look close you can see it."

Ron leaned to take a closer look at the sleeping snake and saw that there were some lighter shades of gray in there as well. He nodded in agreement as he saw the matching pattern.

"See? And the two dark marks on his sides. And he also has slit pupils."
Hermione compared as she read on.

Harry had his elbow against the table as he ran his hand through the coiled reptile. He gave a hiss at first but didn't seem to mind anymore, closing his eyes in a peaceful sleep.
The creature was gone during Harry's classes and reappeared on his desk around dinnertime. Harry questioned his whereabouts but just received a 'mind your own business' hiss.

"Hmm, maybe it's not this one... His lip point is inverted upwards a little more.. Oh! This must be it!!"
Hermione tapped her finger on the book.

"Vipera aspis zinnikeri."
Harry and Ron read, not sure if they pronounced it right.

"He is poisonous. It's called Haematoxin... But it's not life threatening," Ron heaved in deep relief, "only causes nausea, swelling, cramps, vomiting, and rare cases of paralyses. Native to Gascogne, southern France. They should be kept in a moist ground, and Harry, it says you need to spray him with warm water once in a while."

"How big can they get?"
Ron asked.

"Only up to about 3 feet. Males are longer and slimmer than females, which is rare since in most species, females are bigger," Hermione noticed Harry was laughing, "what's so funny?"

"Hagrid threatened Dumbledore that his poison is pretty deadly. I guess snakes aren't his strong point."

"Well, one can't be too careful," Hermione closed the book, "so, did that help coming up with a name?"

"How about VIP? Short for Vipera," Ron poked the snake, "he certainly thinks he is."

"No, Ron. But I like the idea of taking it right out of its name."
All three agreed and thought for a while.

"Zinni."
Harry decided.

"Zinni?" Ron narrowed his eyes, "isn't Zinnik better?"

"I think it's cute."
Hermione giggled.

"I guess... It's your snake, mate."
Ron shrugged.

"No, he's Dumbledore's... er, ...I don't think he belongs to anybody."
Harry chuckled.

"It doesn't matter. Zinni it is then."
Ron poked the snake's tail which wiggled a little as if it tickled. They all laughed.

Snape, woken by the commotion, looked annoyingly at the three.
'This is the library, shut up.'

Harry patted the snake's head.
::Hey. Your name is Zinni from now on::

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::What is this... D.A. meeting you were talking about earlier?::

Harry jumped when the snake said a whole sentence. Ron was already asleep and Harry was just finishing his letter to Sirius and Remus. He turned to see the snake on his bed, looking curiously back at him.

::So you do know human language. Did you learn it from Dumbledore?::
Harry sealed the letter and placed it aside.

::Answer my question::
The snake hissed.

Harry sighed as he approached his bed.
::Well, it depends,:: he sat on the edge of the bed and faced the creature, ::are you going to tell Dumbledore?::

::How can I when he's not a Parselmouth?::
The snake snorted.

::He doesn't need to be. He can read minds::
Harry took his glasses off and put it on the small end table.

'Hmm, Potter is not as dim-witted as I thought...'
Snape thought as the boy lie down on the mattress.

::Let's make a deal then:: Harry turned to his side, green eyes too close for Snape's comfort, ::you answer my question, then I'll answer yours::

Snape gave it some thought but eventually nodded.
::Deal. Answer my question::

Harry pulled the comforter to his chin covering Snape as well. He hissed and slithered upwards to Harry's eyelevel.
::Sorry. The D.A. meeting is... sort of like a DADA class. Do you know what that is?:: Snape nodded, ::okay, then... That'll make things easier. You see we don't have a very good DADA professor at the moment. And since Voldemort got his body back,:: Harry noticed the snake shivered at the name, ::I guess you already know him too. Anyway, he's stronger now and we feel DADA lessons are most crucial at a time like this. My friend Hermione, the one with brown hair, told me I should teach it and I agreed::

::...And? Who else is involved?::
Snape felt Harry's body heat and slithered close. It was times like these he remembered he was poikilothermic and desperately wanted to turn back.

::Whoever wants to join. Though, no Slytherins so far::
Harry was ready to explain about Slytherins, but the snake didn't seem to need it. He wondered if the creature obtained all this information from Dumbledore, and if he did, for what reason?

::Your turn::
Harry reminded. But Snape just played dumb and put his head down to sleep.
::Hey! I answered your question, now it's your turn::

Snape tilted his head as if to wonder what the question was.

::How do you know human language?::
Harry asked, annoyed.

::Let me ask you this. How does one become a Parselmouth?::
Snape questioned back.

Harry knew he was bound to Voldemort and that had something to do with his ability to speak Parseltongue, but how did Tom Riddle acquire it?
::...I don't know how... It just happens, I guess::

::There's your answer::
Snape smirked as the boy gave him a unsatisfied look. He slipped under the covers to end the conversation.

'No wonder the Slytherin animal is a snake.'
Harry thought as he turned off the light.

::Can you breathe under there, Zinni?::
Harry peeked in the comforter.

::If you actually want to wake up in the morning, you better not call me that again::
Snape glared and revealed his fangs.

"Okay, Zinni. Goodnight, Zinni."
Harry smiled in satisfaction. 'Ha, who got the last laugh?'
Though, he did feel a bit worried he might wake up covered in his own vomit the next morning.

-

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The next morning, Harry woke up a bit downhearted. The visions were starting to come back again.
He woke up at least two times during the night, getting an odd look from Zinni.

::Nightmare... Sorry:: He apologized but Snape gave him a piercing look.
The next time Harry woke up, Snape was annoyed and a bit concerned. Despite the weather, Harry was sweating and breathing hard. He sat up for a while to calm his breath. When he felt the cool skin of the snake crawling up his arm, it gave him a sense of ease and solace…. oddly enough. He ran his hand on the smooth scales and surprisingly, the snake didn't hiss or move away. Harry was grateful he remained close until sleep took over again. From that point on, he slept undisturbed.

::Zinni?::
Harry looked around but the snake was nowhere in sight, as usual. He wanted to thank him but knew Zinni had somewhere to go, wherever that was.

"...I guess I can thank him later."
Harry shrugged and got up to get ready for breakfast.

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"Good morning, Severus. Shouldn't you be with Minerva?"
Dumbledore tilted his head but smiled. He had put a spell on the gargoyle to allow the snake in his office whenever he wished.

"Ahh, so this is our Potions Master," Mad Eye Moody said without turning his head, "how are you, Severus?"

Snape nodded and proceeded to Dumbledore's desk. He gave a glance at the headmaster as he crawled on the furniture.

"As I said, Severus. Alastor will be taking over for you. He needs to know."
Dumbledore reminded. He and Snape agreed they would reveal what happened on the need-to-know basis. So far, the headmaster and all the head of houses knew about Snape's Animagus form. And now, Mad-Eye Moody was on the list.

Snape nodded to confirm he understood, but made sure to indicate he didn't like it one bit.

"You look rather well, Severus. At least you got some color on you now."
Moody amusingly pointed out. Snape gave out a warning hiss.

"Now, now you two," Dumbledore chuckled, "did you need something, Severus?"

Snape turned away from Moody and straightened up to meet Dumbledore's gaze. Moody observed the two locking their eyes while sipping his tea. It was entertaining to see Dumbledore, the symbol of light, communicating with a snake, a creature commonly associated with darkness. Dumbledore raised his brow as he saw what Snape wanted him to see.

"But he didn't say he had a vision, Severus. Just a nightmare."
Dumbledore stated.

::Of course he's going to say that. He knows we can communicate::
Snape shook his head to show he disagree with what Harry said.

"Though I cannot help but worry,..." Dumbledore's twinkle in his eyes died out a little, "he has grown accustomed to keeping things to himself."

::And you still think the boy will come to you for answers::
Snape hissed and turned away.

"The accusation you make, Severus,... is a little too hard to accept... Even for an old wizard like myself."

::I'm not accusing him of anything, Albus. Merely stating the fact::

"If I may interrupt," Moody couldn't wait any longer, "what are you two on about?"

"Severus believes Harry is... having visions again."
Dumbledore didn't feel it was necessary to tell Moody the whole story yet. He would rather hear from Harry himself.

"You mean those visions you were telling me about a week prior?"
Moody's pair of eyes focused on Dumbledore. He had wanted to ask Dumbledore more about it ever since he heard the story of Harry's unusual bond with Voldemort.

"Yes, but we're not entirely certain."
Dumbledore made sure that point went across Snape, but the snake was turned away and seemed deaf to his words.

"If Potter knows any vital information, he'll surely come to you. Wouldn't he, Albus?"
Moody's eyes remained sharp.

Snape gave a triumphant smile when Dumbledore couldn't answer immediately. He watched Moody as he set the teacup down and stood up.

"If the boy is keeping secrets from you, Albus," Moody walked to exit, "you do not have his full trust."
Then Moody turned to Snape.
"Constant vigilance, Severus. That's the way to go."

Snape nodded wholeheartedly.
'He can take my place anytime.'

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"Potter, you stay put."
Mad Eye Moody said as he instructed the rest of the class to bottle their solutions.

He was very capable of teaching potions and it amazed Harry how fun the subject could be. Rather than assigning papers, Moody went around the class asking for opinions and suggestions for their next assignment. Neville began to talk more, and to everyone's surprise, he was actually good at potions. His knowledge of Herbology exceeded his fellow students and gained more points than Hermione for the Gryffindors. Slytherins did not like that one bit...

Harry stared at the floor while the others rushed out of the classroom and gave out a big yawn. He was glad potions was the only class he had on Thursdays…

"Is my class boring you, Harry?"
Harry almost jumped as he opened his heavy eyelids. Moody was standing across his table observing him.

"No, sir. I enjoy your class a lot," Harry laughed, "surprisingly."

"What's so funny?"

"It's nothing, really... It's just that Snape asked me the same thing."
'Except in a more mocking tone and 'Potter' instead of 'Harry'.' Harry bit back another yawn. To his relief, he wasn't forced to call Snape 'professor' in front of Moody. He wondered since when did the ex-Auror begin to address him by his first name, but decided he liked it better. It somehow made Harry feel he could trust Moody more.

"I don't blame him. It looked as though you were ready to plunge your head in the cauldron."
Moody pointed out. He had been keeping a close eye on Harry ever since he took over.

"I'm sorry, professor... I'm having... nightmares," Harry rubbed between his eyes, "...very bad nightmares."
Harry welcomed mockery if Moody wished to give it, but none came. Instead, he got a soft pat on the shoulder and looked up to see a concerned face of Mad Eye... or, at least it looked that way to Harry.

"Do you need any dreamless potions, Harry?"
That was all Moody could offer for now. If Harry needed help, he has to say so himself. If there was one thing Moody agreed with Dumbledore, it was to wait for Harry to come forward with whatever crisis he was having, willingly. Forcing the boy to confess was not tactful, though Snape seemed to believe otherwise.

"Speaking of which…"
Moody remembered as he saw the boy shake his head to indicate he didn't need his offer.
"Have you found your snake?"

Harry wondered for a moment how Moody knew about Zinni, but figured Dumbledore had told him.
"No. But he's not really my snake... Besides, Professor Dumbledore allows him to roam freely."

"I see..."
Moody nodded and excused Harry. Before he walked out the door, Moody called out his name.
"If you want, I could make you some sleeping potion."

Harry was very tempted to take the offer, but decided against it. He knew they were highly addictive and didn't want to rely on some temporary comfort when the symptom was life-long.

"I'm all right, professor. But thank you."
Harry gave a small smile and walked out.

-

-

-

As he thought, Hermione and Ron were waiting for him.

"What did Mad Eye want?"
Ron asked as the three walked to the Great Hall for lunch.

"He asked me if I was bored in his class."
Harry tried to fight back the yawn that had been threatening to come out, but surrendered.

"Stop that," Ron yawned, "you're making me tired."

"Harry, are you getting enough sleep?"
Hermione stopped in front of Harry and crossed her arms.

"Obviously not, duh?" Ron pointed at Harry's face, "look at those dark circles under his eyes. They don't appear if you-"

"I wasn't asking you, Ron... Harry?"
Hermione glared at the redhead and turned back to Harry only to see him walking towards the Great Hall.

"Hold on, Harry... I'm worried tha-"

"I'm all right, Hermione... Must we go over this again?"
Harry cut Hermione short, annoyed. He was too tired to argue right now.

Hermione bit her lips and decided to follow Harry quietly. Ron slowly caught up with her.

"Don't worry, Hermione. I would know if he was having visions or nightmares... or whatever... I sleep in the same room."
Ron whispered to comfort her. But knowing how Ron sleeps, Hermione wasn't so sure.

-

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"Kill the spare."

Harry tensed as he fell into the familiar darkness.
It was worse than warping with the portkey.
It was worse than the Basilisk's fang piercing through his body.

It was worse than anything he could imagine.

Harry saw the body of Cedric staring back at him.

His lips were moving but Harry couldn't hear what he was saying.

Harry wanted to run to help his friend, but realized he couldn't move a muscle.

"Kill the spare."

Harry heard the raspy voice of his arch nemesis and shuddered.

Then laughter.

Not just Voldemort, but Peter Pettigrew's as well.

"Stop..."

Harry covered his ears as their cold and cruel laughter echoed in his mind.

He kept his eyes on Cedric who continued to whisper something.

Then, the dying friend slowly stood up.

To Harry's horror, Cedric pointed a wand towards him.

"Kill the spare."

Cedric said with Voldemort's voice.

Then gave Harry a cold grin.
-

"NO!!"
Harry gasped and almost fell off the bed.

He quickly sat up, eyes wandering in the darkness to make sure he was in Hogwarts.

"Just a dream... A dream.."
Harry tried to calm his breath as he wiped the sweat from his forehead.

The dreams felt so real that it was like reliving the moment of Cedric's death over and over again. Harry didn't know if those were shown intentionally by Voldemort or made up by his own guilt for not being able to save his friend.

He gave out a deep sigh and dropped his head back on the pillow. He heard Ron's snoring, thankful that his friend was a deep sleeper. He didn't even need to put a silencing charm around his bed.

::I see you're still having those nightmares... as you call it::

Harry jumped at the familiar hissing noise. He widened his eyes in delight as he saw Zinni at the foot of the bed.

::Hey, nice to see you again! Where have you been for four days?::
He knew he shouldn't, but Harry leapt forward to embrace the snake. As he guessed, the snake gave out an angry hiss.

::The pleasure is all on your side, I assure you. Now put me down::
The snake was gently placed on the mattress.

::Sorry::
Harry said, sheepishly. He was surprised at how much he missed the little unsociable companion.

Zinni slithered on top of Harry's lap over the comforter and observed the boy. The dark circles under his eyes were darker than the last time he's seen them.

::...So, are you willing to explain?::
Zinni's black slit pupils trapped Harry's gaze.

::?-? Explain what?::
Harry narrowed his eyebrows with deep confusion. Last time he checked, he was the one who had questions.

::These constant nightmare of yours:: Zinni hissed, ::It's taking a lot from you...:: Careful not to sound too concerned.

Harry blinked his eyes and leaned closer to the snake.
::...Are you feeling okay, Zinni?.. You sound as though you're worried...::

'Insolent brat!!' Snape cursed to himself, trying very hard not to poison the boy. It was hard enough as it is to confront James' child about his problems. Why should he care? Why was he wasting his time on the boy?? These questions kept echoing through his mind, but damn it, he wanted to solve the mystery that was Potter!!

::I am...worried..::
He tried again, consciously telling himself not to sound sarcastic. If he wanted to unravel Potter's enigma, first he had to get his trust.

::...You're not a spy for Voldemort, are you?::
Harry inquired. Zinni shrunk back at the name distastefully.

::Do me a favor, boy, and don't mention his name in my presence::
Zinni gave his deadly glare, flickering his tongue. Harry remembered the snake's similar reaction to Voldemort's name couple of nights ago.

'He wouldn't react that way if he was working for Voldemort, would he?... And besides, Dumbledore trusts him...' Harry tried to convince himself, but it still didn't explain Zinni's sudden concern.
::...Did Dumbledore send you?::

The snake seemed to roll his eyes.
::I was not sent by anyone... This may upset you, but people have better things to do than concern themselves with the Boy-Who-Lived::
Snape regretted as soon as he said it. 'Force of habit... Shit.' He carefully looked up at Harry and wondered if he'll figure him out.

Harry's eyes grew bigger, if possible, then bursted out laughing.
::You sound just like my potions professor, Zinni!::

Harry covered his mouth with his hand as Ron shifted in his sleep. He grew silent but giggled when he saw Zinni glaring at him.

But the reptile thought for a moment and smiled inwardly.
::...Potions professor?::

::Professor Snape is his name, ...and torturing the Gryffindors is his game:: Harry laughed at his own words, ::He's the head of Slytherins and only likes students in his own house::

::Is that so?::
Zinni provoked.

::Very much so. He's unfair and so biased. We lose so many house points in that class it's unbelievable. I admit I'm terrible in that class, but he even takes points away from Hermione and she's excellent in potions. She was able to make Polyjuice potion in her second year... which is very complex::

'Now why would she need a Polyjuice potion for?' Snape wondered and was very tempted to ask. He wasn't really surprised to hear Hermione's skill at potions since he already knew the girl was a natural... Though he would never admit it to anyone.
::I've heard from Dumbledore someone else took over potions?::

::Mad Eye Moody. He's great. I'm actually enjoying potions now and Neville is raising his hand to answer questions, which never happened when Snape taught it::
As Harry continued, Snape had to endure the pleasure of revealing his identity and seeing the look of horror on the boy's face. That would have to wait...

::So you're happy with your new professor... I'm glad::
Zinni sneered.

::Yeah, but I don't think it's long term. Snape will return and he'll take over again... It's probably better that way::
Harry yawned. Zinni cocked his head.

::I thought you said you prefer the new professor::

::Definitely. But I didn't say it's better for me. I meant it's better for the school. And Dumbledore, he trusts him. And I hate to admit it, but so do I... I hate his guts, but I do trust him. He saved my life in more than one occasion and I know I should thank him, but whenever I try, he makes me angry. We can't hold a friendly conversation even for a second::
Harry laughed and bit back a yawn. His eyelids were getting heavy again.

::...Is that so...::
Zinni looked at Harry, contemplatively.

::I can't really complain, but I am a bit concerned about his disappearance. Dumbledore was worried Vold- I mean, You-Know-Who might have something to do with it, but I really doubt it. If he did have Snape, he would've done something by now like using him to lure Dumbledore. And I greatly doubt he's dead:: Harry lie back on his pillow, ::I don't think Snape will die that easily... None of my enemies do::

Zinni was quiet for the longest time and Harry extended his hand to check if he was still there. When he felt the cool skin, he slowly stroked Zinni's back. It was then he realized this was the longest conversation they've had... though Harry was doing most of the talking.

::...You haven't answered my question about your nightmares yet::
Zinni suddenly changed the subject.

::Why do you want to know so much?::
Harry continued to pet the scaly skin until Zinni started to slither up to his chest.

::Because you look pathetic. Seems as though you haven't slept in ages and it's probably affecting your academics... Don't give me that look. I honestly don't give a damn about your grades, but you've saved my life... I am indebted to you::
Snape was beating himself up with his own words. He didn't want to be reminded that his life was saved by two generations of Potter.

Harry observed the snake peering from above. He rubbed his small head with his index finger.
::Thanks, but it really was a dream this time... A dead person cannot come back to life in reality... It's probably from my own guilt and no sleeping potion would work...:: Harry didn't know what he was talking about anymore, ::Dumbledore and…Hermione worries too much... If he wants to kill me... then he should..come after me... not Cedric... :: Harry's eyes closed and was about to dive into slumber.

::What about visions? Did you have any visions, Potter?::
Snape hissed in Harry's ear.

::It's okay, Zinni... I can handle it... somewhat... If you want to help me so much, just stay beside me...:: Harry stroked Zinni, ::your cold skin... feels... good...::
With that, Harry was asleep. His hand over Zinni's back.

::That was your last chance, Potter::
Snape gave his evil grin and slowly slithered out of the room.

-

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"Professor Moody is late."
Hermione looked at the door in wonder. The ex-Auror was never late.

"You sleep well, mate?"
Ron turned to Harry. Though he still looked restless, Harry felt a little better.

"Yeah, I did. Thanks to Zinni."

"He's back?"
Hermione asked.

"Yeah. He came back last night."

"That's great!"
Hermione seemed delighted. She grew fond of Zinni over the past few days.

'Though he was gone when I woke up again...' Harry sighed to himself. He tried to remember the last bit of their conversation but couldn't. He was just too tired.

Just then, the door slammed open and a dark robe billowed to the front of the classroom, rivaling any Dementors. Everyone seemed to freeze in place as the familiar silky voice emerged.

"Well, what are you waiting for? Turn your texts to 264."
The head of Slytherin, the bane of Neville's school life, and the source of Harry's headache was standing in the classroom for the first time in nearly two months.

"Fuck..."
Surprisingly, it was Harry who cursed, not Ron. The Potion Master turned to Harry at that exact moment.

'...He didn't actually hear me... did he?'
Harry groaned as Snape gave him a malicious smirk.

-

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