In no way am I connected to Harry Potter
Harry closed the journal. It still wasn't an easy read.
He had expected the fallout of his actions the day before. After all, the hourglasses responded immediately and Dumbledore was in his office all day.
But there had been nothing out of the ordinary.
Maybe Hogwarts decided to start the fireworks this morning and let me get through my stressful day yesterday. If so, thank you.
Either way, Harry knew he would have to deal with it today.
Looking at his mother's journal, Harry knew it wasn't about his ancient history. It wouldn't come down to Slytherin and Gryffindor. It would come down to Potter.
For Snape, it always came down to Potter.
It always had and it always would.
As Headmaster, Dumbledore probably knew Harry was an Heir of Hogwarts or had the potential to be. Would he know which or both?
Harry shook his head.
It doesn't matter. Either way, he's going to want to talk to me.
A small part of Harry understood it was what should happen. But a bigger part of him was angry that Dumbledore had allowed it to get so bad in the first place. He was angry about a lot of things now that he was looking at the safety of the students.
Such as the fact that so few of the teachers were.
Harry sighed.
Better head to breakfast and get this over with. I just hope I don't miss Hagrid's lesson. I'm really looking forward to it, but I'm calling the Basilisk if he brings out Aragog.
Hmm…need to think of a name for her.
There was no hurry, but Harry wanted to. It felt demeaning that he kept referring to her as 'Basilisk'. If the previous one had a name, which this one didn't seem to mind, then she deserved one too.
I am not asking Hagrid. He would probably name her Sarah or something like that.
Harry groaned. He was not looking forward to the conversation he needed to have with Hagrid about the acromantulas.
He needs to learn that that is a disaster waiting to happen. Does Dumbledore know about them? A part of me hopes not because otherwise he's just left them there for any student to wander across. Hopefully, he won't think it's me as there are a lot of possible Heirs, but it does tend to be me.
If he were honest, Harry had a very different problem with Dumbledore; something that hadn't occurred to him until two days before he returned to Hogwarts. He hadn't talked about it to Sirius (or anyone). Sirius had the pieces of information, but he hadn't put them together yet and Harry didn't want to help in case he did something that made him lose Sirius.
Harry wanted to see Sirius.
Harry forced that feeling away.
First Hogsmeade visit is next weekend. None of the students know I don't have a permission slip and I can sneak out easy. I'll go see him then. Even if I only visit that cave he said he would be spending a lot of time in.
Sirius.
Harry groaned.
His idea hinged on exposing Peter Pettigrew in a very public place, like the Great Hall. Another idea he had toyed with was to send Pettigrew to the DMLE, but he was sure the rat would never see trial then. Harry was sure Fudge would never allow it.
Is there a way to get Sirius his freedom without Pettigrew? Some people genuinely want justice, but others are only interested in money and power-
Harry jolted.
That's it!
Harry rummaged through his trunk, searching for Henry Potter's journal. He had a much better idea and if it worked…
He needed to talk to an Heir. Preferably Neville.
Who should be at breakfast and Harry would have to leave the safety of the dorm rooms.
Forget the weekend. I'm going to Hogsmeade today.
Gathering his Gryffindor courage, Harry headed down to the Great Hall. There were a lot of people huddled and whispering, but no one paid him any attention. There was a much greater crowd gathered around the hourglasses, but again, no one paid him any attention.
Making sure to be quiet, Harry slipped into the Hall and let out a sigh of relief at the absence of Snape.
Neville seemed just as relieved, his eyes jerking to the Head Table every now and then. He jumped when he saw Harry before he relaxed. "Hey Harry."
"Hey Neville." Harry sat opposite him. "Something bothering you?"
Neville winced. "Just Snape. He's bound to have found out about the boggart by now and he's going to be worse than ever."
"I've heard something's going on with Snape this morning." One huddle had been talking about losing five points for talking in the corridors and they hadn't been taken.
"Yeah. Apparently his point deductions aren't working. I know at least four people that have detention with him." No they don't Neville. Hogwarts won't allow it. "But I bet it'll get fixed soon and he'll be on the warpath."
Neville wasn't wrong, but Harry was sure Snape and even Dumbledore were no match for Hogwarts. Still, Harry was reluctant to tell Neville the truth. But then, how to cheer him up?
"It'll be fine Neville. So what are you thinking about Divination?"
He looked grateful for the change of subject. "I…don't know. I don't like it, but I don't know what to replace it with. Arithmancy, Muggle Studies or Ancient Runes."
Harry helped himself to scrambled eggs. He was now sure he could stomach them. "Well, I think Muggle Studies is a bit too out of date, but I don't know how much you know. I've had both Ancient Runes and Arithmancy and I thought both were excellent."
"…Which would you say was easier?"
Harry hesitated as he put his goblet down back on the table. "At the moment, I would say Arithmancy, but we're only learning the basics. You should take what you enjoy Neville, not what you think is easy. That was why I originally chose Divination and I am so glad I didn't step into that classroom."
Neville stabbed the bacon on his plate and didn't respond.
"Neville…I was wondering something. I heard that the Wizengamot meets on the 24th every month?" Slowly, Neville nodded. "Are Heirs allowed to attend?" In Henry Potter's day, some even sat in their family seats even if they were not allowed to vote.
"If the Regent allows it, though not all families have one and their seat is empty. I think the Potter seat is at the moment. I think that's done when the Lord or Lady is unavailable and the Heir isn't old enough."
So Harry could attend the meeting on the 24th September.
It would mean attracting more attention to himself, which he had been desperate to avoid but…
But he wanted Sirius to have his freedom more.
Sirius deserved that and more.
"Thanks Neville."
"Why the interest though Harry?"
He hesitated. "I would be betraying someone's trust Neville, but it's for a good reason. I want to right a wrong."
"That is a good reason, though I'm not sure how successful you'll be."
Harry knew that.
But there was hope.
And he was determined and no one stopped him when he was determined.
Soon enough, it was time to head to Care of Magical Creatures. With Hagrid as the teacher, Harry was and wasn't looking forward to it.
Hermione was waiting, fiddling with something. She hastily slipped it into her pocket when she saw Harry. "Harry. Have you heard about the hourglasses?"
"I've heard. I hear it's something to do with Snape."
"It's a horrible prank. I know Professor Snape isn't a favourite but this is a step too far. And how did they do it? It should be impossible according to 'Hogwarts: A History'. They are going to be in so much trouble."
Harry ignored Hermione defending the git. She always did. It was the mention of 'Hogwarts: A History' that made him pause. He would have thought you could find information about Hogwart's Heirs in there.
One day, I need to read that book.
"And all Potions classes have been cancelled!"
That made Harry frown. While he was very happy about that as he was supposed to have Potions later, he thought Snape was being very unreasonable.
He also should have realised he needs to act like a professional if he wants to stay here.
"Hermione, breathe. I'm sure the teachers will sort it out." It sounded like a lie even to Harry's ears.
Hermione's scowl told him that was what she picked up too.
Fortunately, Hagrid emerged from his hut then. "Right. This everyone?" There were nods all around. "Right. Gonna start you all off with a treat. Follow me."
Of course he starts heading into the Forest. Hope the Basilisk is still in the Chamber. Hopefully, she'll smell us and avoid us before we ever see her if she's not.
To Harry's relief, Hagrid didn't take them far. They remained within easy sight of the school and only went past the tree line. The paddock was probably there for Care of Magical Creatures lessons.
Well, it's not Fluffy-sized. I don't know how big Norwegian Ridgebacks grow, but I would think it was bigger than this. And how did I not notice Malfoy is taking this class?
Malfoy and his minions were talking in low tones. Maybe feeling Harry's stare, Malfoy glared over at him and then gave him the 'you are going to be in so much trouble' grin. That did not bode well for Hagrid.
Harry was now very glad he had a wand holster. Malfoy was up to something.
Malfoy opened his mouth.
Harry's eyes were immediately drawn to the creature trotting into the paddock, with Hagrid at its side.
Okay…not sure what I was expecting but not this. I read about these in that book. Funny how it completely glazed over how sharp those talons and beak were. There was also a warning about deaths in there.
Harry struggled to remember. Most of the creatures had warnings, but this one had had an odd one. 'Odd but more understandable' had been Harry's thoughts at the time he read it, but he could not remember.
Hagrid clapped.
The few people not already looking at the…something Harry should remember…were now.
"Now then. This here is a hippogriff." Hippogriff. Of course it is. "I call him Buckbeak. Now. The first thing you want to remember about hippogriffs is that they are very proud creatures. Never insult one. It might be the last thing you ever do."
Harry remembered that now. From his point of view, you would have to be an absolute idiot to insult something that could very obviously rip you apart.
In the corner of his eye, Harry caught Malfoy not listening. He wished for Hagrid to put him in his place, but Harry knew Hagrid well enough to know he was nervous. People talking during his class would only make it worse.
Well, if Hagrid wasn't going to put Malfoy in his place, then Harry would. "Malfoy, seeing as your education has failed to teach you how to count to three, you might want to pay attention."
Malfoy jumped and glared at him, his cheeks flushed.
Hagrid, probably sensing trouble, continued on. "Right then. Would anyone like to say hello?"
Harry stared at Buckbeak. He really didn't want to, but he had thrown the gauntlet down now. He wasn't going to let his feud with Malfoy ruin Hagrid's lesson. "I will."
Hagrid looked relieved. "Okay. Harry, step up and give him a nice bow. If he bows back, you can come closer. If he doesn't…best to keep your distance."
Okay. Harry would only get within slashing distance of those weapons if Buckbeak allowed him too. There would be some warning he wasn't welcome before he was in danger. That was fine.
Harry took three steps forward, definitely separating himself from the crowd.
Buckbeak's gaze went straight to him.
Okay. Bow.
Harry bowed, trying to look the hippogriff in the eye.
Nothing.
Then Buckbeak folded one leg and lowered his head.
Harry let out a breath.
"Well done Harry. I think he'll let you pat him. Nice and slow now."
Now Harry had to get in range of those talons.
I can do this.
Harry approached carefully. He didn't know much about animals, but he was hoping to catch some sign that Buckbeak was about to attack. The hippogriff tilted his head, but didn't snap.
"Okay Harry. Slower. Let him come to you."
Hagrid may have a poor taste in pets, but he was an expert.
Harry slowed even more, well aware of his pounding heart. The hippogriff took a large step forward, also slowly. He seemed more curious of Harry than afraid.
The beak was smooth. Easy to gently run his hand up and down and long enough to keep it aware from the flesh-ripping tip.
Buckbeak closed his eyes, obviously enjoying it.
"Well done Harry."
A shaky smile fought its way onto Harry's face.
This isn't so bad.
"Of course. The bird brain's as potty as Potter."
Buckbeak instantly pulled his head away; his sharp gaze fixed on Malfoy. The wings came out and spread.
"Malfoy, twenty points from Slytherin and head back to the castle now!"
Harry glanced around and saw Hagrid between Buckbeak and Malfoy.
"W-What?!"
"You heard. Now!"
"I won't!"
Buckbeak leapt over Harry and with a wingbeat passed Hagrid too. His gaze remained focused on Malfoy, whose eyes went wide. Finally realising he made a mistake.
"Stop."
Harry heard it.
A whisper on the wind.
Buckbeak squawked. He dived for Malfoy.
Harry really didn't want to do this. However, he was chosen as the Heir of Slytherin and he knew what that voice on the air belonged to. He wasn't going to let the Basilisk kill the hippogriff because of a Malfoy.
Harry staggered back, keeping pressure on his now bleeding arm.
Buckbeak backed off, glaring at Harry.
"Harry!"
Lots of voices said it.
But Harry didn't care.
"Malfoy, what the fuck is your problem? If you have a death wish, walk into the dementors! See if Daddy can buy you a new soul!"
Malfoy was just staring at him.
Harry shoved him. "Back to the castle, mudbrain. They're not difficult instructions to follow."
Malfoy managed a sneer, but everyone could tell he was nearly running.
Hermione grabbed Harry's fine arm. "Let's get you to the Hospital Wing. And control your magic Harry. You're glowing."
Well.
That would explain why Malfoy finally listened.
"Harry-"
"It's fine Hagrid. That prick did this. I had a great lesson." He had been having fun too. "Pretty sure this is grounds for banning Malfoy from your classes. The rest of us would be glad for that." There were quite a few murmurs of agreement.
Harry ignored the other voices on the way back to the castle. His bleeding arm hurt, but he could tell it was just a scratch. If he hadn't pushed Malfoy aside, his injuries would have been far worse. Harry had nothing against that, but he had plenty of Malfoy getting away with his sicking behaviour.
"Potter!"
Harry wasn't in the mood for Snape. Malfoy behind him watching gleefully told him enough. "Snape, you see this? It's called blood. It's supposed to be inside me. So I'm going to the Hospital Wing."
"Arrogant as always Potter. That'll be detention for the next two months."
Harry pulled away from Hermione, whose jaw had dropped at Harry's words. "For?"
"Back talking and not following orders Potter."
"Guess Malfoy has four months of detention then. His disobeying orders is what got me this injury. I'll say it now Snape: you have no authority over me and screw your detentions!"
"That'll be another month Potter."
Harry snorted. "How's the hourglass, Snape? Fixed that yet?" Hagrid's point deductions had been calculated. Ignoring Snape, Harry headed towards the staircase. Malfoy stepped in his path and opened his mouth.
Harry drew his wand. "Silencio." Nothing came out of Malfoy's mouth. "Much better." That idea had come from one of the Marauder's pranks. He was surprised he managed the spell the first time he tried it.
Then again, I can feel my magic wanting to lash out.
"Another month Potter."
"Severus."
Harry didn't stop. Dumbledore's appearance meant nothing to him and he was struggling to maintain his magic as it was. For some reason, self-healing wasn't working and he knew he had done it before after one of Marge's dogs drew blood when it bit him.
"Harry, a moment please."
"Dumbledore, which part of a student that is bleeding means he doesn't need to go to the Hospital Wing?" Come to think of it, he had been covered in blood after killing the Basilisk and the adults hadn't cared. "Now if you'll excuse me."
Navigating passageways, Harry arrived at the Hospital Wing within a minute.
Madam Pomfrey was almost dumbfounded. "Mr Potter, have you just walked into the Hospital Wing of your own violation?"
Harry almost laughed. "Yes ma'am. It's a small cut, but it was an accident in Hagrid's class. I don't want him to see it again."
She shooed him onto a bed and had a look. "What animal were you working with Mr Potter?"
"Hippogriff ma'am. In fairness, it wasn't going for me, but Malfoy after he insulted it." Harry knew the look on Madam Pomfrey's face then. It was utter exasperation. "You know about hippogriffs ma'am?"
"As a Healer, I am aware of many magical animals, Mr Potter, especially those that are used in Care of Magical Creatures. Fortunately, hippogriff slashes are treatable and will not scar. I would like you in here for an hour just to check you haven't lost too much blood. I'm not that convinced of your self-preservation Mr Potter."
An hour of avoiding Snape? "Very well Madam Pomfrey."
Madam Pomfrey gave him a look that said she knew why he agreed, but he didn't mind. Now he had calmed down, he realised that what he said to Snape did earn a justified punishment from any of the other teachers and he did not trust them to back him rather than Snape. They always backed Snape.
Then Madam Pomfrey sent Dumbledore away when he came to talk to Harry.
Thank you Madam Pomfrey. You've just become my new favourite staff.
She did allow Hermione in, with strict instructions not to upset Harry.
"Are you okay Harry?"
"Fine. It's healed now." Harry showed her his flawless arm. "She's just not convinced I came straight here after class." Which was fair enough.
"I can't believe you said that to Professor Snape-"
"When he acts like a professor Hermione, I'll treat him like one." His scathing words made Hermione sit back. When he saw the signs of an argument, he started. "Hermione, what would happen if a teacher in the muggle world behaved like that?" His experience with teachers in primary school wasn't great, but he could at least say Dudley picked on people when the teachers weren't watching rather than under their noses. At least none of them had bullied any students. "They would be fired."
"Still-"
"Hermione, if you're going to defend Snape, you can get out."
Hermione looked like she'd been slapped. "Harry…"
"I mean it Hermione. I'm sick of it. I'm sick of people pandering to his whim and allowing the bullying to take place. Everyone knows it happens. They think just because he's a teacher, he's in the right. He's not. You saw what happened in the Entrance Hall. How is that professional?"
"But-"
Madam Pomfrey returned. "If you're going to upset my patient Miss Granger, I must ask you leave."
Harry opened his mouth to respond, when he realised the bed next to him was floating. Cheeks flushing, he reigned in his magic again. The bed dropped.
"I'm sorry," Hermione mumbled.
Harry nodded shortly.
Hermione bit her lip. She looked between Harry and Madam Pomfrey. Then she murmured another apology and left silently.
Harry sighed. He made a note to find her and apologise later. "Madam Pomfrey, do you know if there is something wrong with my magic?"
Madam Pomfrey placed a glass of water in his hand that he gratefully chugged down. "Mr Potter, while remarkably rare, it is known for some people to have bouts of accidental magic well into their teens. Sometimes it is stress and sometimes it just happens. It depends on the person. How many instances have there been?"
Harry thought back. "Well, it started when I blew up my aunt this summer when she insulted my parents. Then there was when a mob threatened my dog. Then there was the dementor on the train…" Madam Pomfrey raised an eyebrow there. Harry ducked his head. "Sorry ma'am. I should have come straight here." She nodded. "There was just now. There was before in the Entrance Hall and in Care of Magical Creatures. Potions yesterday. Nothing else springs to mind."
"So far, I can say they are stress related. Perhaps anger?" Harry nodded in answer. "Or fear, in the case of the dementor. In a life threatening situation, people can accomplish amazing feats that they would not consider under normal circumstances. Let us say that you are not normally a runner. If you had a truly angry hippogriff chasing you, you could run for hours."
"Pretty sure it would catch me in minutes, if not seconds," Harry responded. Still, his mind went back to the incident when he seemed to just teleport onto the roof when Dudley was chasing him.
Madam Pomfrey smiled. "This is hypothetical Mr Potter. Now, that person is capable of running for a very extreme distance than he could manage normally. If trained, he is capable of doing that any day. However, his muscles are simply not used to it. In this situation, my first thought is that you are subconsciously accessing a reserve of magic you did not know you had. This seems to be triggered by anger or fear."
Harry frowned. "So I'm having outbursts because my unused magic is responding to my emotions?"
"From what you've told me, that would be my thought. I would recommend practising with your magic far more than you have been in previous years Mr Potter. Depending on your magical reserves, it should help burn your excess energy. If you are still having problems after trying this method, return to me and we will discuss further, including things you do not wish to discuss."
"Yes ma'am," Harry mumbled.
He needed to get his magic under control. He did not want to talk about the Dursleys or anything else in his past.
"Then you are free to go. The Headmaster wishes to see you in his office. Do you know where that is?"
Oh no.
Harry nodded in response to her question, but dread curled its way up his spine. Oddly enough, he hadn't been this worried when McGonagall took him after he found Justin and Nearly Headless Nick Petrified.
Maybe because I knew I was innocent. I am responsible this time.
He shouldn't be embarrassed or guilty over what he did, but he was very uneasy.
Again, Harry stuck to the passages. Before he headed to the Headmaster's Office, he stopped in his dorm room to stash the Marauder's Map and his Cloak in his trunk. Dumbledore might know about the cloak, but there was no chance he was going to risk it being confiscated 'for his own safety'.
No way.
Harry didn't know the password. Remembering what the Twins had told him, he began to guess. "Acid Pops-"
The gargoyle sprang aside.
Harry stared at it for a moment. He was expecting to have to list a dozen before he lucked on the right one. Glad he wasn't stuck outside making a bigger fool of himself, Harry walked forward.
Only to hesitate at the actual door before the office.
Harry knocked.
"Come in."
There was a brief warmth in his heart before it vanished.
Hogwarts.
Harry opened the door with only a little hesitance.
The office was the same as it had been at the end of last year. The only difference was that Snape was skulking in the corner. Ignoring him, Harry then saw the Sword of Gryffindor on a pedestal off to the side.
"Ah Harry. Thank you for coming."
"Headmaster." Harry took careful steps forward, trying not to show his nerves. He was grateful for the seat opposite the desk, as he didn't fancy standing. No doubt Snape would try to take points off him for standing wrong.
Although, maybe I should stand.
"How is your arm Harry?"
"Perfectly fine. Madam Pomfrey fixed it up. But after dealing with last year, I suppose cuts are much milder." She had re-grown his bones after a stupid professor got rid of them somehow.
Isn't it interesting how many of my problems are from poor professors?
"Madam Pomfrey is one of the best," Dumbledore agreed. "Now Harry, I have heard some worrying things about the last few hours and would like your version."
"Would you professor? I thought discipline around this school was based on Snape's decisions and Malfoy's delusions alone." Yeah, Harry was going there.
"Just as bad as your father-"
"I wouldn't know Death Eater. I never met him because of your master, after all."
Snape actually shut up.
Dumbledore frowned, before sighing. "Harry, Professor Snape turned spy for us at great risk to his life. He saved your life last year."
Harry snorted. "Sure he did. That's why he favours all the Death Eater kids. That's why he hates the Boy-Who-Lived. That's why the Potions grade needed for Aurors and Healers has been so pathetic recently." Boy did it feel good to get that off his chest. His nerves had evaporated into thin air. "And save my life? You'll find that was Hermione." He was still laughing over her setting Snape on fire two years later.
"That is not quite true Harry. I told you why Professor Snape dislikes you-"
That did have Harry laughing. "No you didn't. You didn't tell me my father bullied him. You didn't tell me my mother was his friend." He grew serious and, for once looked Snape in the eye. "Do you want to know why my mother never chose you Snape? Do you want to know why she started dating my father in their Seventh Year?"
Dumbledore interrupted. "How do you know all this Harry?"
"Black," Snape snarled.
Harry narrowed his eyes. "Funny you should mention him Snape, because you never got on with him either. That's fine. But I haven't spoken to Black. I have my mother's diary from her school years. You must know that seeing as you made my potion disappear that I brewed with her improvements. You did help with them after all." Harry stood up and jerked his head back to Dumbledore. "I'll see myself out."
"Harry, if I do not have your version, I will be forced to accept Mr Malfoy's version of events."
"Ridiculous!"
Harry jumped. Spinning around, he stopped at the Sorting Hat.
Only then did he notice that Snape had his wand in his hand, although he wasn't aiming it at Harry. He was glaring daggers at him though. That was nothing new, so Harry ignored it.
The Hat continued. "A version of events from a professor on probation that has not had the time to investigate, along with a lack of events from the professor in charge of the class, means that there is no evidence of truth or lies. Mr Malfoy has a record of lies. His word alone cannot be trusted without evidence. Mr Potter has a record of truth and he has saved Hogwarts' students from danger more than once. Hogwarts will not allow any discipline brought on Mr Potter or any other student without proof."
Snape's eyes narrowed even further.
Harry shrugged. "Hogwarts or the Potions professor that has hated me probably since the moment I was born…I know who I trust. Do you Headmaster?"
Without another word or look in Dumbledore's direction, Harry left.
He started breathing properly when he returned to his dorm.
That…That felt good. Real good.
Then he grinned.
Retrieving the Marauder's Map, he searched for a certain pair of Gryffindors. They had been the bane of his existence last year, among many others, but they were the best ones to tell. Finding them, he grabbed the Cloak, hid it and headed off. After all, he could now say Snape was on probation. Surely some Ravenclaws would know what that meant.
Then he was going to Hogsmeade to visit Sirius. He would skive History of Magic this once and Potions was cancelled anyway. He didn't care if the professors were looking for him. Hogwarts was a big castle. There were plenty of hiding spots.
With the Map, no one could find him if he didn't want them to.
Though he was a little curious as to why Lavender and Parvarti were still at the Divination tower long after their class had finished.
Which meant he was waiting for them. He didn't want anyone predicting his death and if it wasn't Neville that bad things happened to, it was Harry. It was almost as if there was a worldwide conspiracy.
Just like that Halloween…
Harry shook his head. He would think on that later and ask what Sirius thought after he was free.
Lavender and Parvarti were giggling as they climbed down a ladder. They froze when they saw Harry. Like the majority of the school, they hadn't apologised for the Heir of Slytherin bullying. Unlike the majority of the school, their gossiping had help fuelled the rumours.
"Why are you here?" Lavender asked, suspiciously. "You don't take Divination."
"I was looking for you," Harry replied. "I wanted to know what you've heard about the hourglasses and Snape."
Parvarti brightened. "No matter how many points Snape takes, the other hourglasses aren't affected. The Slytherins points have dropped loads and no one can figure out why. He tried putting Ginny in detention earlier and the classroom wouldn't open when she arrived."
Harry grinned. "Well, I just heard from the Headmaster's Office that Snape is on probation."
Their eyes lit up like a light bulb. "Probation?" they asked in unison.
"Yep. Guess someone has decided to smack Snape down."
"About time too," Parvarti added. "Excuse us Harry."
With that, the gossip queens of Gryffindor were out of sight.
Sure, that could be traced back to Harry, but he didn't care. After Snape's abuse right in front of Dumbledore, Harry wasn't feeling particular generous. Besides, it was Snape's fault for being hired as a professor and then not doing the job he was paid for.
And Harry wasn't going to let his parent's money be used to allow Snape to bully him any longer.
Now then. To Hogsmeade.
With the school abuzz of the news that Snape couldn't discipline anyone, the result was obvious. Many of the students started planning pranks. Certain Slytherins were suddenly nowhere to be found.
The Weasley Twins had a very interesting plan for a few of the unfair Slytherin prefects.
With a mental wish to Hogwarts to somehow step in if they went too far (not using the Basilisk), Harry ignored them and went on his way.
For all the hype that Sirius Black had escaped, the professors had done nothing to ensure the secret passages were blocked or monitored. They knew he had been a trouble-maker as well and would likely know about them.
Even Lupin must know about them. What's his problem?
Did Lupin think Sirius was innocent?
Or was he just not interested in the safety of the students and, specifically, Harry?
After all, he's made no attempt to tell me about the Marauders and, as far as he knows, I don't know.
Harry angrily shoved Lupin out of his mind.
After all, Sirius had been in Azkaban and therefore unable to look after Harry. What was Lupin's excuse? Even if the Ministry wouldn't allow a werewolf custody, he could have looked for Harry in the muggle world. Plenty of wizards did and they found him with ease.
Too bad none of them introduced themselves.
It made little difference that Honeyduke's was open for business. There were no customers, but the staff woman was constantly moving around the entire shop, both front and back. It was easy to slip past.
Hogsmeade was interesting. Harry wondered what it was like when the students visited. It was quite quiet now and trying to imagine a lot of students visiting was bizarre.
Right. A cave. There's a mountain over there. A good place.
There was a nudge on his leg.
Harry slid to the side and looked down-
Right at a big, black dog.
"Hey," Harry murmured. He didn't know how Padfoot knew he was there under his Cloak, but he was so happy to see him he didn't care.
The tongue came out, the ears went up and the tail wagged from side to side.
Carefully, Harry made sure his hand was still hidden as he petted the dog on the head.
Padfoot walked past Harry, towards the mountain.
It wasn't an easy trek, especially as they got higher. When Harry went to take the Cloak off, Padfoot whined and looked over the edge. Sirius was worried, either about Harry being spotted or the dementors. Harry took his advice and kept the Cloak on for now.
The path eventually took them to a secluded cavern.
When Padfoot changed back into Sirius, Harry pulled the Cloak off. It said a lot that Sirius looked like he had put on a little weight. It was only a tiny amount, but it was still better than he had been.
"Are you safe Harry?" were the first words out of his mouth.
Harry chuckled. "I'm fine. You're looking better."
Sirius snorted. "Not much better, but it's fine. The locals think I'm a stray and call me Snuffles. They tend to throw out a lot of good food too." He sat down. Harry sat opposite him, but closer than he had before. "So. How has Hogwarts been?"
Harry shrugged, feeling a little cheeky. "Eh, not much. Ancient Runes was great. So was Arithmancy. McGonagall offered to train me to be an Animagus if I'm good. Hagrid introduced us to a hippogriff. Snape is now unable to discipline students."
It took Sirius a moment to process that. "Good to hear your studies are going well, but what's this about McGonagall offering tutoring?"
Snape is obsessed with the Marauders and Sirius doesn't think he's worth mentioning until he finds out how I am.
"It's about my accidental magic. Madam Pomfrey thought that using magic would help."
"And why were you in the Hospital Wing this early in the year?"
Harry sighed. He hadn't thought Sirius would say anything about that. Only a few hours ago, no adult had been worried despite the blood and Sirius was worried when Harry was fine.
"Malfoy insulted a hippogriff. I got in the way."
Sirius frowned. "Hippogriff….Hippogriff…Oh. I remember now. What an idiot." Sirius fixed him with a stern stare. "But what were you doing getting in the way?"
Sirius was angry.
Harry didn't like Sirius being angry.
"Malfoy would have got Hagrid in trouble. I wasn't going to let that happen."
Sirius stood up and paced. Confused, Harry didn't say anything. Sirius had been in Azkaban for twelve years and, now that Harry knew what a dementor felt like, had a very small glimpse of what Sirius had gone through. It would take him a little while to get his mind sorted.
He stopped pacing. "Right then. Flitwick was a duelling champion once. He can teach you a few spells. Starting with a Shield Charm. Use that next time instead of yourself. That might help your accidental magic usage."
Flitwick?
There are duelling circuits?
"Sirius, do you know what's wrong with me?"
Sirius stopped. He looked at Harry. He sat down opposite him again. "There's nothing wrong with you Harry. You were very good with magic as a baby. A day didn't go by when you weren't Summoning something or Vanishing things you didn't like." Vanishing? Is that what Snape was doing to my potions? "You have a lot of magic at your disposal Harry. You're not…" he searched for the right word. "Your magic is getting away from you because you're not familiar with it anymore. You don't normally use magic with them, did you?"
Harry swallowed. "They…Err…Didn't like it."
Sirius scowled. Then he took a deep breath. "Would it be right to say you suppressed it?"
That…was a good question. Harry thought back. "I…don't know. I wasn't doing it on purpose, but…Maybe?" Probably.
"The magic that you buried…That's what's causing the incidents when you get angry or afraid. It's always your power, but you haven't been using it."
That sounded similar to what Madam Pomfrey said, but more exact. "So…It'll sort itself out?"
"Eventually. But it is a little worrying that you have little control over it. You should be in control of your magic, not your magic in control of you. It can lead to accidents." Sirius' lips quirked into a smile. "Like blowing up whoever that was."
Harry chuckled. "You think duelling with Flitwick will help?"
"There's a few things. Occlumency is a good one for sorting out you mind and getting the feel of your magic. It's not about tiring yourself out Harry. It's about making sure you're not bottling up your magic. Even by accident. It's not good for you to do that."
"Oh."
What else was there to say?
There was a brief quiet.
Sirius smiled. "So. Snape can't discipline students?"
Harry returned it. "Hogwart's Heir of Slytherin took offence to a student's boggart being Snape."
"Ah. Bet that drives the bastard insane."
Harry blinked. It was the first time an adult had deliberately used bad language around him. Then he laughed. "You should have seen his face."
Remembering the scene in the office sobered Harry's mood. Not completely though. Snape would never bully a student again. Personally, Harry hoped he would get kicked out.
Sirius was still smiling. In fact, his smile was a little bigger.
"So what's he teaching? Potions or DADA?"
Harry blinked. "Potions."
Sirius winced. "That's a pity. Your mother loved Potions. Her favourite subject with Charms and Ancient Runes close seconds."
Sirius had told Harry that she was going for a Mastery in Potions before she found out she was pregnant, so that wasn't a big surprise. But it was still nice to hear more.
"I think he would be worse as DADA."
Sirius shrugged. "He knew more Dark Arts in school than most Slytherins. On top of that, most people would be as friendly as him when they're trying to kill you. Besides, we never had a DADA professor that lasted more than a year." He rubbed his temples. "I just don't get why he's in a school."
"You and everyone else there except for Snape and Dumbledore."
The two looked at each other.
Somehow, that set them both off into laughter.
Harry decided he liked Sirius' laugh.
More relaxed, Sirius looked less haunted. "How are your other professors treating you?"
Harry frowned. "They're all fine, but McGonagall confuses me." Sirius tilted his head like a dog would. "Well, she's…She's never listened to my side of the story. I bet she'll tell me off for telling Snape off. Don't get me wrong, she's a great Transfiguration professor but…Well, I don't get why she would take interest in me now when she wasn't interested before."
Sirius waited a moment. "She might be worried about you about me." It took a moment for Harry to puzzle that out. "I remember McGonagall having too many responsibilities and not enough time." Harry knew that. "But…I don't know. But I don't remember McGonagall lying to me when it came to academics. If she thought a student had more potential, she would push them. Give them more complex spells. Never Animagus training though. James was her favourite student for Transfiguration, brilliant he was, but he never got that offer. Maybe she feels she let you down."
"She still hasn't told me about you," Harry pointed out a little angrily. "Okay, she might think you're guilty, but that doesn't excuse it. I even told her I had dad's Animagus journal, but all she asked was if it mentioned anyone else. I lied, but she seemed relieved at the idea you weren't in it. She could have told me then." He managed to stop himself before he mentioned Lupin. He was not going there.
Sirius let him rant. "I don't know Harry. I'm sorry."
I'm sorry.
That made Harry stop. He groaned and put his head in his hands. "This isn't your fault Sirius."
"Kind of is. I went after Pettigrew. I should have argued with Hagrid."
Harry snorted. Even he knew fighting with a baby in the middle was going to end badly. "I don't blame you Sirius." He also wasn't going to discuss the idea that Dumbledore had decided Harry wasn't going to be raised by Sirius. After all, Sirius hadn't been arrested at the time Harry was dumped on the doorstep.
No.
Sirius was very unlikely to raise him, no matter how hard he tried.
"There's a lot of blame that night Harry. A lot is with me."
This was a point Harry was sick of arguing over. "No it isn't. Sorry for ranting at you." That wasn't why he came here.
"I'm here for you Harry. Always."
Harry's heart almost beat out of his chest. He cleared his throat. No idea how to respond. "Thank you." What do you say to that? He glanced away before licking his suddenly dry lips. "I was wondering if I could attend the Wizengamot as an Heir."
Sirius sighed. "I don't know Harry. I wasn't interested in politics back then and I honestly can't remember my lessons."
Given that he had spent twelve years in Azkaban, Harry was happy he could remember anything. "Neville says I could." A nod showed Sirius remembered who that was. "I was thinking about announcing I was the Black Heir then. Malfoy Senior is still a problem."
Sirius groaned. "Of course he would. As Heir, you can fetch the official papers that show Narcissa and Draco were thrown out of the family. That's where most of his influence came from in the war."
The Black name.
Sirius was quiet for a moment as he thought about it. "I remember hearing one Heir sat in the seat when her family was killed in the war and she was too young. I wasn't there, but I'm sure. Which family was it?"
It didn't matter. It happened before.
"Could they introduce evidence?"
"I…remember that she went in as Heir and came out as Lady. I think she was emancipated then so I'm not sure if an Heir can." Then something clicked for him. "You weren't taught politics. It would be a good way to learn, but be careful who you take advice from."
"Greengrass?"
"Greengrass…I remember James talking about him. Respected him. I'm sure he wasn't a Death Eater though. He would be interested in an alliance with you."
"Heiress Greengrass said that. She said they were more interested in a more educated Lord Potter than now."
Sirius nodded. "Not take advantage of you. That is probably quite rare. I'm sure James trusted him. At least, he would be worth hearing out."
The plan was coming together.
Harry was almost looking forward to it.
Almost.
Harry wanted to assure Sirius that he was working on making him a free man.
But Harry remembered the mild scolding he got before and the stern instruction to focus on himself.
Harry wasn't great at listening to authority. He wasn't going to listen to Sirius when he knew he was wrong.
"Thanks for everything, Sirius."
Sirius nodded, understanding. "Better get back to school before you're missed Harry." He shifted into Padfoot, obviously intending to see Harry off properly.
A hug for the dog.
Back to school.
Harry avoided everyone, patrolling the corridors in his Cloak. It wasn't easy; he was constantly pressured into cackling with laughter.
It was Snape baiting season and most, even three Slytherins, were getting in on the fun.
In the Entrance Hall, the Slytherin hourglass was down to 30 points. All the others were in triple figures.
We haven't been here a week and that's the damage?
Good grief.
The dungeons had been repainted. Snape's robes weren't billowing anymore and were red. All the cauldrons in the classroom had been charmed into plant pots.
There were a lot of stories.
Harry came out of seclusion at dinner.
No one had noticed his disappearance.
Dumbledore stood up. "There have been many rumours concerning Professor Snape today. I can personally assure all that every point alteration will be checked by myself and the other Heads of Houses. Also, everyone who received detention today will be forgiven of their actions this once and will serve any future detentions with Mr Filch."
There was cheering across three tables, but Harry was internally furious.
Dumbledore wasn't learning.
There was nothing on how wrong Snape had been to treat them this way.
He used a loophole to ensure Snape still had some fangs or appeared to.
And Harry was angry.
Salazar Slytherin was right.
The Headmaster was the greatest threat to the students.
The worst part?
Dumbledore probably didn't mean any harm.
Doesn't matter. Sirius' freedom first. Political power outside the castle will make them take me more seriously inside. Then I'll be more open. The alliances would help too. Mr Filch is not needed as a caretaker and, as he is not a professor, he is not a suitable substitute for overseeing detention. Hogwarts will prevent that too. Being too obvious too soon is only going to hurt Hogwarts, not help it.
Then Dumbledore…
Once Sirius is free, the three of us are going to have a very long chat.
AN: Snape is an interesting character when the books and films are compared.
In the films, there is an extra layer as the books are biased by Harry's point of view. The idea of 'learn this Potter: it will save your life' is portrayed beautifully in the films. While he is a git, he mostly remains professional and, while Harry may disagree, he doesn't go over the top.
However, there are quite a few scenes that are cut that are in the books and not the films, such as Snape reading out Harry's Teen Witch Weekly article on his love life for no other reason than to humiliate him and being the one to teach Malfoy how to summon a snake at the Duelling Club. He has few redeemable traits in the books if those incidents and others are taken into account.
In a big way, the difference between book Snape and film Snape is huge.
This fic uses the Snape from the books.
Thanks for reading.
