I own nothing of the Harry Potter World. But I am going to buy a wand when I go to Universal studios. Then I will own that. But that is all. J.K. Rowling owns the rest.
He What!
Chapter 34
Remus watched as the three Gryffindors left the Shrieking Shack. He was furious, and rightfully so. What were they thinking?
Ok, so he knew what they were thinking. Harry, for the love of all that is magic, has a heart that is much too big and a streak of curiosity to match it. He knew his Pup was only there to see that the transformation went as he hoped it would. The kid had poured his heart and soul into making the adjustments to the potion in hopes that it would lessen the pain during the transformation. If he were being honest with himself, if had put all the time and work into something as Harry had done, he would have wanted to see the results for himself as well.
On the other hand, Harry is eleven years old. Brilliant or not he had no business being in the Shrieking Shack. Severus or Dumbledore would have shared the memory of the transformation with him so that he could witness it. If the potion had been ineffective, Remus could have injured, maimed, turned, or killed any of the three children. Severus would not have known to protect them as he could not see them. Dumbledore most likely could have stopped anything that would have went wrong; however, while protecting the children, would he have been able to keep him from harming Severus who had his hands occupied taking notes? There were just too many what ifs, and yes Remus Lupin was one perturbed puppy.
Dumbledore returned to the Shack with a silvery cloak which Remus was eyeing.
"Ahh, yes the invisibility cloak. Well you see I figured since it was I who gave it to him, I should be the one to take it away considering the circumstances. I have always been intrigued by this cloak," Dumbledore said. Remus watched on as Albus, like a small child, played with the cloak chuckling, and Remus gave in to sleep.
Remus woke the next morning in the infirmary to the sight of Dumbledore and Severus. Cautiously, Remus sat up in the bed, then slowly he stood beside the bed. He began to move, testing his muscles and joints. To his relief he was not sore, none of his muscles ached, he did not have the usual head ache, and he had free movement of his joints without discomfort.
"So wolf, tell me how you feel?" Severus asked.
"I...I feel great. Neither my joints or muscles are remotely sore; I do not have the usual headache; and I actually feel more energetic than I… well, I can honestly say I have never felt so good after a full moon. The transformation was painless Severus, I have to find Har..." Remus said then suddenly stopped.
"I am going to murder my godson!"Remus said as he started to the doors of the infirmary.
Severus looked at Dumbledore dumbstruck thinking that this quick change in mood must certainly be a negative side effect of the potion. Dumbledore was quick to direct a spell at Remus pulling him back to the bed. Remus crossed his arms like a petulant five year old and scowled at the headmaster.
"Headmaster, would you like to fill me in on what is going on here?" Severus asked.
"I think that Remus has asked to be tasked with that," Dumbledore calmly replied and discreetly cast a silencing spell around the three of them knowing of the impending rant more than likely erupt from both of the young wizards before him.
"Well wolf, what is it that has you wanting to murder my son. I have always thought you to be an ingrate, but I never thought you would be so ungrateful as to threaten my son after this brilliant gift he has developed for you," Severus sneered.
"Not to get too far off track, but I am not an ingrate. I have always been grateful for your help with the wolfsbane potion, and I love Harry very dearly and appreciate more than you can imagine what he has done for me. More than you will ever know, because until you have been through a forced transformation like that...Well let's just say I am far from ungrateful. As to why I want to murder my godson, he was present in the Shrieking Shack during my transformation last night," Remus said.
Severus' eyes went wide in surprise, "He What!" Severus yelled, then thought the wolf was just trying to irritate him. He composed himself and came to the only rational conclusion assuming the wolf actually believed Harry was in the Shrieking Shack. Severus calmly explained, "That's impossible wolf. I was there when you transformed. I did not see him. This is clearly a side effect of the potion. Hallucinations," Severus said and began scratching it on his notes.
"I wish it were Severus, but Ron and Hermione were there with him. If you need confirmation, all you should do is ask Albus. He escorted them back to the castle after you left," Remus deadpanned.
"A-Albus?" Severus stuttered out.
"I'm afraid it's true my boy. Young Harry, Ronald, and Hermione used the invisibility cloak to remain hidden during the transformation. Remus noticed their presence as soon as the transformation was completed," Dumbledore replied.
Albus watched as an array of mixed feelings fluttered through Severus' eyes. He was waiting for the inevitable. First he saw doubt, fear, relief, and then there it was...anger.
"I am going to murder my son!" Severus said and started to the door of the infirmary.
Dumbledore, just as he did with Remus, pulled Severus back to him and seated him on the bed. Severus too sported the look of a petulant five year old, with his arms crossed seated on the bed beside Remus.
Dumbledore waited patiently...wait for it. Ahh yes, here it comes.
"Albus you will let me leave this infirmary this instant! I forbade the child to watch the transformation. He even asked me and I specifically told him no! You will release the sticking charm from me and you will do it NOW!" Severus shouted.
"Now boys, I have already confiscated Mr. Potter's invisibility cloak. I expect you two to calm down before approaching the three," Albus said as a matter of factly releasing the sticking charm on both wizards.
Severus stood as did Remus but it was Severus who spoke first, "Calm down? You want me to calm down? BLOODY HELL ALBUS he could have been killed!"
Remus spoke up, "I have rationalized his behavior in my mind, and I understand why he did it, but I must agree with Severus, Albus, Harry's behavior was beyond irresponsible."
Severus looked surprised at Remus' statement and in the shock of the moment he nodded curtly at Remus, "Thank you."
"Quite welcome shall we go now?"
"Indeed I think we should. When I get my hands on him I will choke the life out of him!" Severus said to Remus.
"Not if I get my hands on him first. He is mine. I could have injured, maimed, turned, or Merlin forbid killed him! I have dibbs," Remus retorted.
"Dibbs? What the bloody hell wolf? He is my son! I reserve the right to murder him before you on that ground alone!" Severus said inching closer to Remus.
"He is my godson, and it would have been my actions which harmed him. I reserve the right before you Snape!" Remus growled encroaching on Severus' personal space to show he was not intimidated by him.
Dumbledore just sighed, flicked his wand, and the two found themselves stuck to the infirmary bed once more, and again the two glared at Albus.
"Unstick me from this bed now old man!" Severus said. Dumbledore could sense the anger in both men and summoned their wands immediately before it got too nasty.
Both the younger wizards groaned.
"Now Remus, I believe you said you had rationalized what may have encouraged Harry's little outing last night..." Dumbledore began calmly but was abruptly cut off by Severus.
"Outing? LITTLE OUTING? The child, MY CHILD, snuck off to the Shrieking Shack to see a werewolf that could have very well put an end to his existence in this world, and YOU call it a LITTLE OUTING as if he went to see a dear old friend for tea? You are barking mad! I suppose you think I should walk into the Gryffindor Common Room and tell the boy in my best barmy old coot voice Well done Mr. Potter you got one over on your old man and managed NOT TO GET EATEN BY A DERANGED WEREWOLF!" Severus exclaimed.
Remus thought to himself, but did not voice it I'm not really deranged am I? I mean he asked me questions and I answered them in my wolf form...Deranged is a bit harsh I think.
Albus spoke up, "No Severus I do not intend for you to walk into the Gryffindor Common Room and do anything. They are in my office..."
Severus cut him off again, "Ohhh that's even better Headmaster. I should just march up to your office and say, Excuse me you three, tell me how was your LITTLE OUTING last night. You are such brave little Gryffindors. I do hope it was enjoyable. Oh and have a LEMON DROP! No Albus that is how you handle things! I. Do. NOT. Handle things that way!" Severus ranted.
Dumbledore would have laughed watching Severus in this position, but stifled it given the seriousness of the situation. Severus normally paced when he was in this state, but given he was stuck, literally, to the bed he was unable to do so. As he spoke he waved his arms about almost, although unknowingly, striking Remus on several occasions. He ran his hand through his hair causing it to now be a disheveled mess, and Albus would have to commend him on his barmy old coot impersonations later. It was then that Albus saw Severus pinch the bridge of his nose. Finally.
"Albus. Certainly you can see my frustration with Harry. I specifically told him he could not attend the transformation, and he deliberately disobeyed me." Then in almost a whisper, "He could have been killed and then what would I do?"
Severus' rant and subsequent admission had apparently calmed Remus as well and Dumbledore summoned a chair and sat directly across from the two. "Severus once again you have every right to be angry, but you know as well as I do if I had let you two leave the infirmary in that state nothing productive would have transpired from the conversation to be had with them."
Severus and Remus nodded agreeably.
"Now Remus please tell us your thoughts on why Harry would have went to the Shrieking Shack," Albus said. It wasn't an order but Severus knew he was doing this so they could speak with the children with a level head and try and have an understanding of why they did something so...Gryffindor.
"Well I think, and I believe Severus will agree, that Harry probably wanted to see his project through. He has poured so much time and effort into it that he wanted to see the results, albeit positive or negative, for himself," Remus said.
Severus nodded, "Yes I believe that is a fair summation of why he acted like brainless little fool." Severus contemplated a bit more then said, "I have to admit had I put that amount of effort into a potion I too would have wanted to see it through."
He saw the old man's eyes twinkling madly then added, "But I have that right as an adult, Potions Master, and fully trained wizard. Harry does not."
"Right you are my boys, and Severus you should know Harry tried to convince Ron and Hermione that he should go alone; however, as it is now clear to us all if one of them does something, they all do it. Furthermore, I have owled Mr. and Mrs. Weasley and they are out of the country in Romaina for the next two weeks. They said they trust you to treat young Ronald as you do Harry, and to expect a howler for them around dinner time," Dumbledore said eyeing Severus.
Severus groaned, I did not sign up for this. I know I did not sign up for this. Nowhere in those bloody papers did it say anything about taking care of Weasleys, red headed children, or mischievous little imps that befriend my son. That was not in the paperwork!
Even with those thoughts Severus only said, "Very well."
Albus inclined his head, "Is there anything else that should be said regarding the research prior to heading to my office. I left them with Minerva, and she was not pleased with them when I left."
Severus smirked, Good let them squirm for a bit.
Remus then said, "Well I think you should know that the potion worked so well that Harry was able to approach me. I had complete and total control of my wolf side even in anger," Severus quickly turned his head to Remus with his eyes ablaze with fury.
Remus quickly added, "With the Headmaster's consent of course. There was no desire for the wolf to take over. Harry was able to touch me, rub my head, it felt quite nice actually. He even hugged me."
Despite himself Severus found this quite interesting and was scratching notes onto the parchment.
"Anything else wolf?" Severus asked.
"Not that I can think of right away. I know one thing, it is remarkable that I will no longer have to be confined to a bed after a full moon ever again. Speaking of being confined to beds, Headmaster?" Remus said gesturing to himself and Severus.
Dumbledore chuckled, "Of course my boys, of course." Dumbledore released the sticking charms and gave them back their wands. The three then walked to Dumbledore's office.
Harry, Ron, and Hermione all sat in silence. They were not ordered to do so, but that infamous Gryffindor courage seemed to elude all of them at the moment while underneath the furious lioness' strict gaze. Yes, at this moment to Harry she was not Minerva, and certainly not Aunt Minnie, this was the strict Professor he had heard Sev speak of during his years at Hogwarts, and he did not want to evoke her wrath by speaking at the moment. Silence was safer.
They had been sitting in Dumbledore's office for about a half hour when they heard the doors behind them open. None of the three turned to see who it was; they already knew.
Severus noticed that none of them bothered to turn and look, Good they should be nervous. So to antagonize them further he slammed the doors behind him and as expected the three flinched in their seats. Remus looked to Severus with a smile in his eyes while Dumbledore shot them both a disapproving glare. The two wizards just half shrugged and smiled at the old man.
Minerva had moved from behind the desk as she saw the three enter, and Severus strode right past the three to stand behind the desk. Once behind the desk Severus noted that all three of them had found the hands in their lap very interesting. I'll have to remedy that.
Severus, still standing, Severus bent down slightly and slammed both hands on the desk in front of him, "Look. At. Me."
The three jumped and immediately found themselves face to face with an extremely irate Potions Master. "Mr. Potter, would you be so kind as to tell me why you deliberately disobeyed a direct order that I provided you when you specifically asked me if you could observe the transformation and I. Told. You. No? Or better yet is the Headmaster and Lupin just having a bit of fun with me and that never happened at all? Tell me please that this is just one big prank, and you three truly stayed in your dormitories last night," Severus drawled the final bit sarcastically.
Harry was looking right at Severus, and several seconds passed with no response. "I am waiting for an answer Mr. Potter."
"No sir," was all Harry managed squeak out.
"No sir what? No sir you did not disobey my instruction?" Severus demanded.
Harry shook his head with gusto, "No sir I was not in my dormitory last night. I left the Gryffindor Tower after curfew, waited for you to leave your quarters, and followed you to the Shrieking Shack underneath my invisibility cloak."
Severus narrowed his eyes, "You said I; were you alone?"
Harry struggled with himself, and Severus could see this. Harry knew it would be useless to deny Ron and Hermione were with him. Albus and Remus had seen all three of them, but he didn't feel so traitorous so long as he did not have to say it aloud. Ron sensing Harry's struggle, and having plenty of experience in situations like this having six other siblings, spoke up.
"No sir. Harry was not alone. Hermione and I went with him," Ron said.
Interesting. Seems the red headed brat picked up on Harry's discomfort. How...considerate.
"Thank you for speaking up Mr. Weasley, but that question was directed to Mr. Potter, and I expect him to answer it," Severus coolly responded.
"What Ron said is true sir. He and Hermione were with me, and it is my fault they came. I should not have let them. Please do not punish them for my mistake. They would not have been able to come if not for my cloak, and would not have thought to come if I had not told them about the potion," Harry said with pleading eyes.'
Damn those eyes! Just like Lily defending his friends for something that is clearly not his fault. Those eyes may be the life of me, but I have a sneaking suspicion they very well may be the death of me before raising Harry Potter is over.
Quit going all sentimental Snape and remember you are an intimidating irate Potions Master with the ability make all first years tremble and snivel with a single glare.
All except Harry, Severus… and apparently Ron and Hermione as well.
Who asked you Snape!
Remus walked up to face the three, taking a place beside Severus, but before Ron and Hermione could protest Harry's last statement Remus said, "Harry James Severus. I may have been in wolf form, but I heard your cohorts quite clearly last night. Do not attempt to cover for them. I believe they even said you encouraged them to stay behind, that you would go alone, and on their own accord, they accompanied you anyway."
Severus narrowed his eyes, "Ms. Granger, Mr. Weasley is this true?"
Hermione spoke, "Yes sir. Harry tried to talk us out of going with him because he knew he would be in trouble if he was caught, and he did not want us to be in trouble with him. We chose to go with him even though he said it was a bad idea." Hermione thought for a moment and unknowingly continued to dig their already deep grave deeper. She then said, although it was supposed to be more to herself she had given voice to it, "In fact we all knew better, and were aware we would be in trouble should we be caught." Ron shot her a dirty look, and Harry put his face in his hands.
Severus quirked an eyebrow, "So you are tell me Ms. Granger that this was planned. This was not a spur of the moment ordeal? This was not an act of Gryffindor impulsiveness?"
Hermione realizing what she just did, muttered, "Oh my."
"Oh my indeed Ms. Granger. Can any of you three explain why you decided to defy my instructions as Mr. Potter clearly informed you it was against my wishes? Is there an acceptable explanation as to why you three willfully and knowingly placed yourselves in a potentially fatal situation? Please speak up now, because if you can give me an acceptable explanation to this question, you will walk from here without fear of repercussion for your dunderheaded actions," Severus said.
"Ms. Granger?"
Hermione met her professor's gaze and shook her head in the negative, "I was curious. That is all sir. I have no better explanation than that."
"Well perhaps one of your friends here have one, Mr. Weasley?"
Again a negative shake of the head, "No sir."
"So that leaves you Mr. Potter, please explain to me why you defied me intentionally."
Emerald eyes met the obsidian one, "We went because I wanted to see if the potion actually worked. I hoped to see Remus transform without hurting. Dad, I wanted it to work so bad I had to see it for myself, but I know that is not an acceptable explanation, but I promise it is the truth," Harry finished never breaking eye contact with Severus.
Severus could see the pleading in his eyes. Harry needed to know that he believed him. Severus sighed and took a seat behind the desk. "Harry, I know you worked very hard on this potion," Severus reached across the desk and tapped his chest, "and I know you did because that heart of yours is much too big for a child so small."
Harry smiled a little bit at that. Severus wasn't so scary now. He was calling him Harry again and talking to him in that familiar tone. Just as he said. No matter what I do he will keep me.
"But that does not excuse the fact that you put yourself in danger again. There are consequences for your actions and you know this." Severus looked at Minerva and Dumbledore who were standing behind the trio then swallowed his pride for what seemed like the hundredth time that year.
"I am very proud that you put so much effort into this task, and just so you know it is a complete success. You did very well with the extra work and you are to be commended as you are still in the top five in your year. That is a tremendous accomplishment."
Severus then looked to Ron and Hermione who were on either side of Harry, "And you have good friends too Harry. Friends who are in serious trouble, but good friends none the less, and trust me when I say good friends are truly hard to come by," Severus said.
Severus then turned his attention to Lupin and cast a muffilato charm around them, "Now being that these three were out after curfew, defied a professor's instructions, left the Hogwarts grounds, and placed themselves in danger what should we do with them wolf?"
Remus thought about the situation for a moment, "If they lose house points the others will be curious as to what happened. If the three tell them what happened it will be obvious they should be expelled or at the very least suspended until the end of term for leaving the castle grounds without consent after curfew."
"That is true," Severus said. "So do we handle this as guardians or as professors?"
"Errr... Both?" Remus said/asked.
"You're useless wolf?" Severus shot back.
"I am as new at this as you are. In fact you have been teaching students much longer than I have; therefore, it should be me who is asking you how to handle this," Remus retorted.
"Honestly wolf, I have only been a father for less than a year and you have been a godfather for nearly as long. Students are easy to deal with; however, I have come to realize dealing with my own child is not quite as simple," Severus finished.
Remus nodded, "I say you let me have them for two hours, two days each week and until the next full moon, and you take them one day each weekend for a detention of sorts. Maybe we could even loan them out to Filch for a day or two. I also think they should be confined to their tower for two weeks with the exception of detentions, meals, and classes," Remus suggested.
Severus nodded, "I agree except for Filch. I want them with us until we get Quirrell out of here. I expect you to handle the essay in regards to the dangers of werewolves. Albus has owled the Grangers and as for Mr. Potter and apparently Mr. Weasley, they have an appointment in my study after dinner tonight."
Remus winced.
Severus took note of it and silkily said, "You are more than welcome to handle it if you would like wolf."
Remus shook his head and held his hands up, "No, no. I hate to admit it, but last night had I been in my human form I would have done it without thinking, but after I have had time to cool down, I believe it best that you handle that side of the punishment."
"Bloody flea bag."
"Snarky git."
Severus cancelled the muffalito charm. "You three will serve two hour detentions with Lupin twice each week until the next full moon. One day each weekend, Saturday unless something comes up, you will serve a three hour detention with me. At the beginning of each week, Lupin will inform you which days and at what time you are to report to him. For two weeks you will be confined to the Gryffindor Tower except for meal times, classes, and detention. No excuses. For those two weeks Harry there will be no quidditch practice. Furthermore, I believe Albus has Harry's invisibility cloak, and it will not be given back until the Headmaster sees fit to give it back. So do not ask, any of you."
"What the three of you did was incredibly foolish. Ms. Granger, Professor Dumbledore has owled your parents, Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley you are to report to my quarters tonight after dinner. You are dismissed," Severus finished.
Dinner passed much too fast for the trio. They all agreed that what they had done was foolish, reckless, and utterly irresponsible, but what stung Harry the most is that he had disappointed his Dad once again. But at least now I'm sure he will keep me.
"What do you suppose your Dad wants to see us for mate?" Ron asked.
"Well I'm almost certain why he wants to see me," Harry said dejectedly.
Ron winced, "Sorry mate. If my parents weren't in Romania I would be expecting the same."
Harry nodded, "Well we best head for the dungeons and you to the common room Mione."
Silently the three departed from the Great Hall.
Harry led Ron into their quarters and Slinky appeared, "Master Severus says Harry and Mr. Weasley is to be going to Master Severus' study."
Harry nodded and led Ron to the study. Once they entered the study they observed Severus seated behind his desk.
"Harry, Ronald, have a seat," Severus instructed.
As if it were planned, Slinky appeared with a howler in hand, turned it over to Severus, and immediately disapperated.
Severus silently handed the howler over to Harry who gulped and opened it. As he expected Mrs. Weasley's voice rang through the study:
"RONALD BILLIUS WEASLEY AND HARRY JAMES SEVERUS! I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED IN YOU TWO! TWICE! TWO TIMES! IN LESS THAN SIX MONTHS YOU TWO COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED! AND THIS TIME FOR WHAT REASON? THERE IS NOT A SINGLE EXPLANATION I CAN FATHOM THAT WOULD BE REASONABLE AS TO WHY YOU TWO FOUND IT ACCEPTABLE TO NOT ONLY BE OUT AFTER CURFEW, BUT TO LEAVE THE SCHOOL GROUNDS! IF I WERE NOT IN ROMANIA RIGHT NOW I WOULD BE ON MY WAY TO HOGWARTS THIS INSTANT TO THOROUGHLY EXPRESS MY DISPLEASURE WITH YOU BOTH! SINCE I AM NOT THERE RONALD WHAT EVER SEVERUS DOLES OUT TO HARRY, HE WILL DOLE OUT TO YOU AS WELL, AND YOU WILL NOT QUESTION IT! DO YOU UNDERSTAND?" Ron was nodding his head vehemently at this point. "AT THE REQUEST OF PROFESSOR LUPIN, I WILL NOT OWL YOU ANY BISCUITS UNTIL THE NEXT FULL MOON." Then in a more gentle voice she said, "Oh but Harry dear I will still correspond with you over the next month okay, just no biscuits." She cleared her voice in the Howler and yelled again, "YOU TWO WILL LEARN THAT THE RULES APPLY TO YOU! I HOPE SEVERUS MAKES. THAT. CLEAR!"
Harry and Ron sat there in silence watching as the howler self destructed, tearing itself into tiny shreds of paper.
Once again Severus was amused at the expression on the boys' faces, but he did not have to attempt to hide the amusement as it never even came close to surfacing. He had been dreading dealing with the two wayward Gryffindors most of the day.
Ron looked at Harry and spoke, "Well at least I know why he wanted both of us here now." Harry responded by nodding in the affirmative.
From behind his desk he studied the raven haired boy and the red headed one. They looked sufficiently worried. He prolonged the silence a few minutes longer until they both looked away from him.
"Ronald," Severus said again for the second time surprising Ron, "Harry, I am sure is under no delusion as to why he is here. I have rules that Harry knows he is to follow. There are two rules that if broken warrant a spanking. Lying and purposefully placing himself in danger are those rules. Last night one of those rules was broken. Your mother has requested that I punish you in the same manner I do Harry. You can either comply with her request or refuse and leave. If you refuse, I will owl you mother and explain, if you do not leave now I will take that as acceptance," Severus said studying the boy.
Ron thought about it, if he left he knew his mum would be even more angry that he had not listened to her. Furthermore, he would have to wait for two more weeks until his mum and dad returned from Romania to be punished. He did not want to wait that long. Besides, if his best mate could handle it, so could he.
Harry paled. Would Ron hate him now that Severus would be punishing him too? Ron was Harry's first friend and he did not want to lose him.
Severus turned his attention to Harry and could see something there besides anticipation, it was fear. Severus had spanked him before, anticipation was expected, but fear? Was his son still scared that he would beat him? He would deal with Ron first, then Harry.
"I will take the fact that you have not beat feet out of my study as acceptance. Harry if you will wait in your room. I will deal with Ronald first," Severus instructed.
"Yes sir," Harry said and left the study.
Harry sat on his bed. He knew that Severus would not beat him or Ron but it bloody well hurt. Ron would be furious with Harry. Harry sat there with different scenarios running through his head. Ron bursting in his room yelling what an idiot he was to ever befriend him. Ron telling him he was nothing more than a freak that didn't deserve his friendship. Ron telling him that he would warn Hermione what kind of friend Harry really was.
Minutes passed, but to Harry it seemed like hours. He then heard a knock on the door and was instead greeted by an extremely subdued, Ron. His eyes were red rimmed, it was obvious he had been crying. Harry felt his heart sink.
"Hey mate, your turn," Ron said have wincing half smiling.
Harry nodded, "Ok, are you going to the tower?"
"No he told me to wait here," Ron replied.
Harry nodded, and proceeded to the study.
Hesitantly, Harry opened the door to the study.
"Come on over here Harry," Severus said still seated behind his desk.
Slowly Harry walked to where Severus was seated. Severus noticed fear still lurked in his eyes, and sadly asked, "Are you still afraid of me son? Do you still trust me so little."
The question caught Harry off guard and he blurted, "WHAT? NO! I ..I'm sorry I didn't mean to yell."
Severus was now curious, "Well why do you look afraid?"
Harry shuffled his feet and shook his head. Severus sighed, "Answer me son?" Severus said in a low tone, but a tone that clearly expressed he expected him to answer.
Harry muttered something. "I didn't catch that. Look at me and try again."
"I said Ron is going to hate me now," Harry said.
Severus was confused, "Why would Ron hate you Harry?"
"Because you are my Dad, and you punished him. I am going to lose my first friend," Harry said sadly feeling tears prick his eyes.
Relieved that Harry was truly not scared of him, in fact he was not even worried about being punished, he responded, "I can assure you that Ron is not angry at you. In fact, he is angry with himself because he knows he made the wrong decision. Just like you will, he accepted his punishment. You are not to blame for his decision or how he was punished, and he knows this."
"Are you sure?" Harry asked hopefully.
Damn those eyes! Damn his actions! Lily through and through.
"Quite sure Harry," Severus assured him.
Severus could practically see the fear in Harry's eyes dissipate. Severus was once again relieved, Harry trusted his words completely.
"Don't look too relieved Harry. We still have your punishment to deal with. Place your glasses on the desk," Severus said.
Harry removed his glasses, "Do you understand why you are being punished?"
Knowing Sev expected a verbal response, "Yes sir, I placed myself in danger and disobeyed you."
Severus inclined his head sharply and guided Harry over his lap. Harry clutched Severus' pants leg from the vulnerable position, and he didn't have to wait long before the first smack landed on his upturned bum. He gasped primarily out of surprise. He felt his eyes burning from tears. Again the smack stung, but what he really hated was the fact that his actions were what had made Sev do this. He hated more than anything in the muggle or wizarding world alike disappointing his Dad.
Harry had taken many severe, undeserved beatings in his life and did so without shedding a tear, but when Severus did this, it was different. There was always a reason, and Severus always let Harry know what that reason was. Harry let his tears fall not because the pain was unbearable, but because each time he felt that sting, he realized just how much he had let his Dad down, and that feeling, that knowledge, is why Harry cried.
Severus paused after hearing Harry gasp. How he loathed doing this, but he reminded himself that he had to be consistent and follow through with what he told Harry would happen should he break certain rules. Severus firmly brought down hand four more times on Harry's backside and now Harry was crying in earnest.
At least this time Harry did not try to hold it in. Severus rubbed small circles on Harry's back, "It's over son. You are forgiven."
Severus sat Harry up in his lap, and Harry hugged him burying his face in the crook of his neck, "I'm sorry Dad. I'm so sorry."
"Shhh, I know you are. Don't ever do anything like that again. I do not enjoy being in this position anymore than you do," Severus whispered back.
Once Harry had calmed down, he and Severus went to Harry's room where they found Ron laying on Harry's bed on his stomach. Severus had to suppress his grin as Harry joined Ron on the bed in similar fashion.
Severus summoned Harry's desk chair and transfigured it to sit across from the two subdued Gryffindors, "Now you two will receive a letter from Lupin during breakfast with the days you two and Hermione are to join him for detention. I have already spoken with Professor McGonagall, Harry, and she is clear that you will not be attending quidditch practice for the next two weeks. You two have been punished for you actions and you are forgiven; however, I expect you to respect and adhere to the detentions and the restriction to your tower. If you do not adhere to said punishment, there will be consequences to follow. Understood?"
Both boys nodded, "Yes sir."
"Very well. Do you two have any questions?" Severus asked.
"Dad, do you think we could stay down here with you tonight?" Harry asked.
What they want to stay down here with me after doling out a smacking? Well at least my brat does I doubt the other insufferable brat will want to.
Brat Severus? Are you really using such terms of endearment to describe a Weasley?
Stuff it Snape!
"I don't mind Harry, but Ronald may not want to stay down here," Severus answered.
"Ron?" Harry turned to his friend.
"Yeah mate, I wouldn't mind staying here, but where would I sleep?" Ron asked.
Severus stood and transfigured the desk into a small bed, "Will that be sufficient Mr. Weasley?"
Ron smiled, "Yes sir. Thanks."
"Alright boys, I'll notify Minerva so she will know where you two are. Slinky!" Severus said.
Slinky apparated into Harry's room and immediately noticed the young man had been crying, "Harry, what is being wrong with Harry," Slinky excitedly asked ignoring the fact that Severus had been the one to summon him. Slinky made his way to the bed and rooted himself right between Harry and Ron causing Severus to roll his eyes.
Harry assured Slinky, "Nothing is wrong Slinky. I messed up again and got into trouble with Sev."
The elf then whispered Slinky style, "Master Severus Sir didn't be hurting Harry did he?"
Ron gasped and looked at the Potions Master. He had never seen an elf speak so freely and out of turn especially in front of his master.
Severus had learned not to interrupt so he could really know what Harry was thinking, and also learned that when he was the reason Harry had cried his laundry would be most uncomfortable for at least a week. It was just the way things were in their family and he accepted them.
Harry shook his head no, "No Slinky, Dad didn't hurt me. It's like last time, remember with the troll, when I did something I should have known better than to do. Well I did the same thing this time only worse, and Dad only gave me a smacking. I'm restricted to the tower for two weeks, and have several detentions with Dad and Remus. Albus also took my invisibility cloak."
Slinky nodded and again whispered, "Slinky is understanding Harry, but Slinky is still going to be redoing the laundry and I think I misplaced the sugar for the tea for the next two weeks."
Harry nodded and grinned. Ron still looked dumbstruck. Severus cleared his throat, gaining the attention from everyone in the room, "Slinky if you will be so kind as to retrieve Mr. Weasley's pajamas from the Gryffindor Tower it would be appreciated."
Slinky's big ears drooped down on his head when he realized he had completely ignored Severus, and smiled and nodded, "Yes Master Severus sir, Slinky will be right back."
With a pop and a crack Slinky returned with Ron's pajamas.
"Alright you two. Get changed and I'll be back in here in a few minutes to make sure you are in bed," Severus instructed.
Severus left the room, went immediately to his closet to retrieve his favorite robe to make sure Slinky did not get his small hands on it first, only to discover he was too late. Severus groaned and made his way back to Harry's room where he heard the Ron and Harry talking.
"No mate, I'm not mad at you. It's not your fault, in fact it was me that said we shouldn't get caught. Your Dad is not as bad as I thought he was. He's quite good actually. He treated me exactly like my mum and dad would have," Severus heard Ron say.
"Really?" Harry asked. "I've always thought Sev, well my Dad is brilliant, but I thought you would be angry with me after this."
"Listen mate, I'm beginning to realize why Mione gets mad at me sometimes you are as thick as I am. We messed up, we got into trouble, that's what happens. If it hadn't been your Dad, it would have been someone else," Ron explained, and Severus had judged from his tone, it was not the first time the youngest Weasley male had attempted to do so. "Ok, as long as you are sure you..." Harry started.
Ron cut him off, "Bloody hell Harry, I'm sure. Now shut it before I smother you with this pillow."
Harry and Ron started laughing as the impromptu pillow fight began. Severus listened to it for several minutes, and was grateful Harry had made friends with Ron and Hermione. They were good to him, loyal, and Severus had a feeling Harry would need those two more and more as time progressed.
After the two calmed down he assumed a truce was called somewhere amongst all the laughing and giggling. He suspected the two had climbed into bed, "Harry?"
"Yeah Ron?"
"I'm not mad at you mate, but your Dad has an extremely hard hand," Severus heard the red head say and couldn't help but chuckle.
He heard Harry giggle, "You're not telling me anything I don't know Ron, " then Harry's tone changed to a more serious one, "but believe me when I say it could always be worse."
Ron laughed, missing the seriousness of Harry's tone and it was now obvious to Severus, Harry had not shared the details of his past with Ron. Severus however, did not miss it and sighed a sad sigh. He then heard Ron say, "I know mum could have been here and taken the wooden spoon to us."
Both boys laughed at that which is when Severus decided to enter into the bedroom.
"I see that you have managed to change into your pajamas without causing mass destruction or breaking any more rules," Severus drawled.
Ron watched in amazement as Severus made his way over to Harry's bed, brushed his raven fringe to the side, and gently placed a kiss on his forehead. "Good night son."
Harry was never happier that Severus was so willing to let others, even his best mate, know that he loved him, that he wanted him, even after he had done something stupid. Even with the impending detentions and restriction to the tower, Harry was happy, "G'night Dad. Love you."
Ron's mouth was completely agape now, clearly wondering if Severus would return the sentiment. It was obvious to Severus that Ron's whole mental image of him had been turned upside down once again. Oh how he loved doing this to Harry's friends. "Love you too Son. Good night Ronald."
It took Ron a moment to process that Severus was talking to him. Harry was giggling, Severus rolled his eyes, "It is polite Mr. Weasley to respond when someone is speaking to you."
"R-r-right. Sorry. Err...Good night sir," Ron finally stuttered out.
Severus inclined his head sharply, left the bedroom, and proceeded to his study.
Severus was seated behind his desk, drinking a bitter cup of tea Slinky had prepared for him. Yes, Severus could always summon another cup from the kitchens, but in all honesty he liked Slinky's protective streak when it came to Harry so he would bear the little elf's wrath.
For whatever reason, Albus always seemed to know when Severus needed company, and he flooed through to Severus' study with his consent.
"Headmaster," Severus greeted inclining his head politely as Albus stepped through.
"Ahh, Severus my boy, do you mind if I have a seat," he asked as he was seating himself in the chair in front of Severus' desk.
"Of course not. Slinky!" Severus summoned and Slinky immediately apparated into the study.
"Will you bring the Headmaster a cup of tea?" Severus asked.
"Yes Master Severus," Slinky said shortly and popped away.
Slinky was back in mere seconds with a cup of tea, "Thank you Slinky?" Albus said.
Slinky nodded his head and again apparated away.
Severus watched knowingly as the Headmaster sipped his tea.
Severus was not disappointed. Albus took a sip of the tea and immediately spat it out.
Severus coolly said, "Something wrong Albus?"
"Why yes my boy, all the house elves know I like my tea, well my sugar with a spot of tea. This...this has not the first hint of sweetness to it. In all honesty it's horrible," Albus said.
"Pity, looks like you are to suffer Slinky's wrath as well. Apparently he has knowledge that you have taken Harry's cloak. At least he does not have access to your wardrobe," Severus said.
Dumbledore paled and Severus barked a laugh, "Let me guess, he asked you, most likely tonight, if you wanted him to take special care of his robes to lighten the load on the schools elves, or at least something as ridiculous as that?"
Dumbledore solemnly nodded, "Remus' as well actually."
Severus was all out laughing and Dumbledore had to give in to laughter as well. "So my boy did Harry and Ronald make it back to the tower?"
"Actually no. They are presently sleeping in Harry's room," Severus said. Seeing the damnable twinkle in Albus' eyes he added, "It was Harry's request, I assure you Headmaster."
"I would suspect nothing other than that Severus. One would be a fool to think you would want Harry nearby after he could have potentially been harmed. One would be an even bigger fool to think that you would want Harry nearby after punishing him. I am certain you had much rather have sent him back to his dormitory while you seethed in anger alone here in your study while damning yourself for having such a reckelss son, and cursing the unfairness of it all. Yes, I am quite certain you adamantly objected to Harry and Ronald staying here in your quarters, in fact I bet they appropriated a vile of dreamless sleep themselves and downed it just to spite you to ensure they could stay here," Albus finished.
"You are correct on all counts except for the dreamless sleep," Severus retorted, but there was something in his voice that didn't set quite right with Albus.
"What's on your mind son?" Albus inquired.
"Besides the obvious you mean?" Severus responded.
"Yes besides the fact you are mentally and emotionally exhausted from today's events. Do tell an old man what's on your mind," Albus gently coaxed taking a sip of the bitter tea before disgustedly placing the cup on Severus's desk.
Severus sighed, "I thought I had gotten through to him Albus. I never expected for him to just outright disobey me. I never saw this coming. In the past when he has done things to warrant punishment he was just being his typical Gryffindor self. Rushing into things without thinking, but this was planned, it was very, well... Slytherin actually. If Remus had not smelled their scent the plan would have been a complete success. I feel like there is something more to it than Harry just wanting to see the affects of the potion. I just can't put my finger on it Albus. Sometimes I feel like I am too hard on him considering his past. I don't know if I am doing right."
"There are a couple of things you should know. First, I can see through the invisibility cloak so I too knew Harry was there and I hope that provides you with some amount of comfort when I decide to return the cloak to him. And second, you say this is the first time Harry has planned something out knowing what the potential consequences are, well Severus it seems that Harry is finally testing his boundaries in his relationship with you," Albus said.
"Headmaster, you seriously believe that Harry was 'testing boundaries' with this stunt," Severus asked.
Albus chuckled, "I have a story about a certain third year Slytherin and his Gryffindor friend. I had forbade this particular Slytherin to brew any potions unsupervised after he inadvertently caused an explosion in the girls lavatory on the second floor. I believe he was with the Gryffindor student at the time of the explosion if my mind serves me correctly."
"This student did not have a particularly happy home life, and I had taken to him and him to me. I would like to assume the relationship between the two of us was much like that of a father and son. But on with the story. This same Slytherin in his third year decided he would create a prank potion to get back at his nemesis and his gang. The potion had several volatile and poisonous ingredients, and he and his red headed friend thought it to be a challenge to create this potion successfully. One he knew could have a potentially harmful if not fatal outcome, if something went wrong with the potion. Now keep in mind Severus, this was an I had expressly forbade."
"The dark headed young man was not discouraged by my previous warning as a Headmaster, or as his father figure and proceeded to brew this potion an unused classroom on the third floor with his friend. The potion began to put off toxic fumes which went unnoticed by the two students as they had not odor. Hogwarts herself let me know there was danger in the castle and led me to that classroom where I found the Slytherin and Gryffindor on the floor barely breathing. I gathered a small bit of the potion in a vile for Poppy and banished the potion, then levitated the students to the infirmary."
"After said young man woke up we had a discussion in my office which resulted in his confession of deliberately disobeying my order over a prank war. There was nothing more to that deliberate disobedience than that. He had set his jaw while talking to me, obvious that he did not believe I would do anything to him. After having him recount exactly what he did, how he placed his friend in danger as well as himself, and explained to him how it made my heart stop to find him in such a manner, the young boy was nearly in tears."
"So you tell me Severus, were you not testing boundaries with a dangerous stunt? Was I wrong and too hard on you when I put you over my knee? You and Harry share a similar past. Don't doubt yourself son, you are doing a fine job with Harry. He has a long and dangerous road ahead of him, and he needs you. He needs your guidance, discipline, and most of all your love. You are giving everything to the child that he should have been receiving all his life. I will say it again, that fault resides with me, but Severus do not doubt yourself," Dumbledore finished.
Severus felt something hot pricking at his eyes and quickly swallowed that buggering lump in his throat, "No need to bring up unpleasant childhood memories Headmaster. I believe you enjoyed that meeting in your office a little too much my third year," Severus scoffed. Dumbledore smiled knowing Severus was trying to push down his emotions. "But perhaps you are right. I did want to see what you would do. I wanted to know if you would lose faith in me for that mistake, if you would send me away, or if you would still want me around after that." If you would still love me went unsaid although Albus heard it loud and clear.
"And Severus, do I still not love and care for you very much child?" Dumbledore asked.
Severus felt himself turn five different shades of red and nodded, "I believe so."
"Indeed I do, and I dare say that you should have no worries about young Harry. I am sure he is completely repentant for his actions, and still trusts and loves you completely." Dumbledore cleared his throat and stood, "It is my position to sometimes act as if you are being too hard on Harry, after all I have to play the doting old grandfather role yes? But rest assured, if I ever believe you are being too hard on Harry I will let you know, for that too is my role as your mentor, and well father of sorts. Now I believe I will head back to my quarters to see if I can get a decent cup of tea."
Severus had stood from his seat chuckling at that, "Good luck with that Headmaster. Slinky has more likely than not requested, I believe for the next two weeks, that he take care of our tea."
Dumbledore groaned in acceptance and said, "Is that not how long the three of them are restricted to the Gryffindor Tower."
Severus said, "Precisely how long they are restricted to the tower. And Headmaster?"
"Yes?"
"Thank you."
"You're quite welcome. I have many more stories about that dark haired young man should you ever need a reminder. Good night my boy," Albus said as he heard Severus grumbling something about a certain Headmaster being as insolent as his first years.
Severus, now feeling much better about the situation and that he had made the right decision, turned in for the night, and was able to have a restful night's sleep despite the day's events, and he owed it to a man in eccentric robes with too many names, who had help guide him into the man he truly was behind the mask.
Thanks to TheSltherinShadow for the suggestion of Remus insisting Molly send the boys no biscuits.
How about Slinky? He has moved on to torturing anyone who harms his Harry! I want a Slinky!
Well guys I hope that chapter provided a bit of insight on the relationship between Albus and Severus, and shows that Severus does not allow Albus to treat him the way he does simply because Albus is the most powerful wizard in the world, but because he has a certain sense of respect for the man.
What will the detentions hold for the trio? Suggestions?
I hope you all enjoyed the chapter, and I do appreciate all of you guys reading and reviewing.