H4harrygoesshopping

Title: 7th Year Potions with Fred and George
Author: Raven Dancer
disclaimer: All characters belong to Rowling except for the Drs. Barnes. I receive no monetary compensation for these works.

Chapter 4 Harry goes Shopping

Three days later....
You want to look at books? Hermione asked incredulous.
Is that so strange? Harry retorted. She and Ron just looked at him.
Oh, ok, I am picking a couple books up for Snape, he opened the bookstore door and went in. Sighing, Ron and Hermione followed.
I liked it better when we all hated him. Easier, said Ron teasing Harry. Harry sneered at him. He went to the counter and handed the slip of parchment to the old wizard.
Ah, Louise and Severus's book, he said, peering through thick lenses.
Professor Snape? asked Harry, I thought it was just
Professor Sprouts book.
Well, the descriptions and photo plates Louise put
together. Severus listed possible problems with
combining certain herbs in a potion, said the man, distracted. He started to go into the stacks behind him.
Would you bring three, please? Harry asked quickly. The wizard nodded and continued back into the book aisle. He returned with three copies of a small, thick book.
They designed it to fit inside a pocket, the man said.
The cover's waterproof as well as the pages.
Harry picked one up and looked at the cover; both teachers' names were on it. He perused the title page, copy write and the dedications. The book was a little over 5 years old, so it was a recent collaboration. Sprouts dedication was long, including students and family, gushy in fact. Snape's was the epitome of brief: to A. Thank you' Not difficult to figure that one out. Ron peered over his shoulder.
Wow, he really likes the letter a', doesn't he? he snickered, receiving a sharp elbow in the ribs for his troubles. Harry paid for the books and watched as they were wrapped.
Never knew Snape would collaborate with anyone, Hermione said. The wizard looked at her strangely.
He's co-authored several books with other professors. Also two of his own. Do you want to see them? Harry looked at Hermione; he ignored Ron for the moment.
Maybe just his, said Hermione. The wizard nodded and returned quickly with two potions books; one was a general study of home style potions, the second was decidedly darker, seeming to be a series of essays on the use and effects of a variety of dangerous potions. Both Harry and Hermione looked through each book.
I'll take a copy of the potions, said Harry, there's stuff
in here that's useful.
We should show Neville the allergy potions, remarked
Hermione, he doesn't like the ones he gets at home or
from Pomfrey. These look interesting.
Both decided against the other book, not wanting to read about the pain and suffering that could be caused. Harry paid for the additional book and tucked it in the bag he was carrying. They thanked the wizard and left the shop.

Kind of like a cookbook, Ron remarked, glancing over the pages as they sat together in the Three Broomsticks. He stopped on a page and studied the potion carefully.
This sure beats my mom's version of a cough potion, he said as he read. Hermione smirked at Harry as Ron became engrossed.
Look at the uses for chocolate, he continued. A frown covered his normally happy countenance, closed the book with a loud snap.
demanded Hermione as Harry stowed the book away.
Oh, it just ticks me off that Mom insists on using old
family recipes' instead of something that might actually
taste pleasant, he growled.
I can't believe Snape would publish a book of potions that
weren't nasty, said Harry, or at least use a pseudonym!
His friends chuckled.
I'll bet no one else in the school knows, said Hermione.
I look at books all the time and I never thought a teacher
from Hogwarts would actually write one.
There was a laugh behind them and they turned around to see Bill Weasley sipping a butterbeer.
Who'd of guessed they might actually know something! he chortled as he pulled a chair next to his younger brother. Harry smiled and Hermione fought off a blush. Ron grinned.
Hey, Bill. I didn't think you would come into town, he leaned briefly against his shoulder, then sat up straight again. Harry noted the brother hug'.
Well, I couldn't stand sitting in that dungeon thinking
about Tuesday and Neville and the next round of potions, he shuddered. All three students snickered. Bill had to use the safety shower both sessions the previous week after Longbottom had spilled or splashed a variety of things on him.
Plus I needed to get a couple things for 2nd year's classes
this week, he took another sip of brew and nodded at the book bag.
Found Snape's book on common remedies? he asked.
Yeah! Did you know about it? Ron asked in return.
I have a copy at my apartment, he said with a sly smile.
Mom gave me a parchment with her recipes and it somehow
disappeared, he rolled his eyes. Ron slugged him lightly on the shoulder.
I'd better get a copy for a house-warming gift when I
move out, he growled. Bill nodded as he struggled not to choke on his butterbeer.
You're getting stuff for class? Harry asked, curious.
Yeah, needed some fresh sunflower petals, of all
things, he said.
So Snape is out another week? Harry pursued. A cloud passed Bill's face and he set his drink down.
He's having trouble with weakness, he's fallen several
times that the Headmaster knows of; he won't say
exactly how many, Bill told them quietly.
He's a stubborn git, Ron put in.
Why is he falling? Hermione asked.
Well, that potion, he said a bit angrily, has some long
lasting effects. Although the concentrations have nearly
nulled, there's still a couple things that just haven't flushed
out of the muscles. They leave him weak if he moves
about too much. He's really upset and the doctor won't
let him teach until he's gone two days without an episode, Bill shook his head.
So he's being watched like a hawk? asked Harry.
Oh, yes, since none of us wants him to fall into a
cauldron or something equally nasty, Bill's face was hard.
asked Ron.
What, what? his brother too quickly replied.
I know that look, Bill. Give, Ron pressed. Bill tried to retrieve his passive, just a big brother' mask, but failed.
So, some people kind of indicated they'd like to
have something nasty happen to Severus, he sighed.
I used to when I was a student. I learned a lot once I
graduated and moved on. He looked curiously at the three students.
It seems you three don't hold the same dislike as others
I've talked with lately, he glanced at Ron who blushed.
Well, you know, shouldn't judge others and all, he managed to splutter. Harry lost himself in a long suppressed laughing fit. Hermione looked about the bar, making sure they were alone.
We've seen a different side, quite unexpectantly, and
appearances can be incredibly deceiving, she said. Bill nodded.
I understand. And you're right, this is not the place to
discuss this at all! I'll just be off to the apothecary's and
see you all at dinner. He stood and squeezed Ron's shoulder before he left. (Second brother hug, Harry noted). The three friends finished their own meal and drinks quietly. Harry wanted to get back to school and was able to convince Hermione and Ron to stay and watch the film they'd seen advertised at the little theatre. Although a wizarding village, they had some muggle innovations' too.

Harry didn't bother stopping at his room and instead went straight to the Headmaster's rooms. The gargoyle let him in easily enough and he walked up the moving stairs. He heard Dumbledore calling him in as soon as he knocked.
You're too fast, Harry! the Headmaster scolded lightly,
I usually can get to the door before the stairs deposit my
visitors! Harry smiled.
I just wanted to deliver some things to Professor Snape, he said cheerfully. Glancing across the room he saw the man in question standing at the windows, arms wrapped completely around his torso. If he were any more rigid he'd snap. Dumbledore followed his gaze.
I am not quite sure Professor Snape is in the mood for
visitors, Harry, he said very quietly.
I don't suppose so, Harry replied, but I don't think
I'm going to let that stop me. Dumbledore regarded him solemnly, then the silent professor.
Well, I have his wand, so you'll be physically safe, anyway, he considered, but watch out, he'll probably be quite rude.
Harry shrugged.
I've been at the receiving end more than once, he said philosophically.
But never as a friend, the older man pointed out, it's
a lot different, trust me. Harry simply turned away and walked across the room. The space in front of the window was empty save for the rug and the Potions Master. He was nearly six feet away when the first volley was launched.
low hissing growl, Potter, I am not in the mood.
Harry took another step.
Definitely not in the mood for the likes of you. Deadly, soft voice conveyed his malevolence.
And what, exactly, is the likes of me'? Harry asked, sharply.
An idiotic student, Snape launched the next salvo. Harry didn't flinch. Stupid man seemed to forget he was tormented by someone much more hateful: his Uncle Vernon was second to none. He tossed the books onto the table followed by the bag of sweets.
Oh, how cutting, he smirked and moved closer. Snape now deigned to glance briefly at him before returning to glare out of the windows.
Like it matters what I say or do, Snape ground out, It
doesn't matter at all. He turned slightly, more away from Harry. But that didn't faze the young man. He moved closer, now within striking distance of the angry man.
Snape was furious. Completely trapped in the Headmaster's rooms, not being left alone at all. *I can't even piss without someone filling out triplicates* he groused silently to himself.
I'll bet you couldn't get more uptight if you wanted to, Harry chided evenly. Snape snorted.
Oh, yes, child, I can. But the kindly doctors just shoot me
up with tranquilizers and pet me on the head. Such
a nice patient, he hissed, not nice at all. Harry stepped even closer, making Dumbledore extremely nervous. He was hanging just close enough to step in if things got ugly.
Harry was now at the man's side, turning to look out the window. He folded his arms mimicking the Potions Master. He nudged the man's shoulder as Ron had done to Bill. He was rewarded with a low hiss.
Oh for gods sake, Severus, it can't be that all that
bad, Harry burst out never taking his eyes off the view from the window.
You ever have anyone measure your urine output? Snape asked grossly.
Harry returned gruffly. Snape fidgeted, moving his feet.
Neither have I, he conceded, lowering his eyes, rubbing them with a tired hand. Harry glanced over at him.
he asked.
replied the professor.
Then why the hell are you standing here like some idiotic
statue staring out the windows? Harry asked in a low, dangerous voice.
because I might fall if I move, came the very small tired reply.
Well, then, right. I knew there was a reasonable
explanation, Harry replied brusquely. He waited a moment more before reaching out and squeezing the man's fore arm.
Come on, he pulled lightly. Snape stood immobile still shielding his eyes. He breathed out, a long suffering sigh and then regarded the young man less hostile.
You're not going to let up, either, are you Potter? he muttered.
he said succinctly, let's try walking to the couch.
Together they moved away from the window to the couch. Snape was able to make it without a stumble and gratefully sank down, leaning back into the cushions. Harry stood over him watching him.
Oh, for gods sake, Harry, Snape chastised, I have two
doctors, the Headmaster, Lupin and the elder Weasley
looking at me like that. Leave off, and he opened his arms to the youth. Not having to be asked twice, especially since hugs were offered rarely from the crotchety Potions Master, he slid onto his lap and into his arms. Snape encircled him fully, letting Harry rest his head on his chest and listen to his heart beating.
They sat together for awhile; Dumbledore could see no reason to interrupt. Harry was sure Snape had fallen asleep.
I'm so tired, Harry, and so angry, Snape said in a quiet voice, startling his companion.
The twins will be here tomorrow and I have to see to them, he continued. I don't want Albus to have to mete out any
punishment. He was devastated while I was sick.
Harry moved slightly, snuggling into the warmth.
You'll let them come back? he asked.
Yes, of course. It was a mistake. I know that. It's
just a very painful and prolonged mistake, Snape conceded.
So, make it a very painful and prolonged detention, Harry said reasonably. Snape actually started to chuckle, but stomped it down.
Oh, right. Then I'd have to be subject to monitoring
the detention. Maybe I'll let Filch handle it. He has
manacles, Snape said slyly.
Did he ever show you his cat o' nine tails? Harry asked innocently.
No, did he show you? Snape was almost impressed.
No, he only threatened, Harry sighed as though unhappy.
I can show you mine, Snape growled, startling Harry. He then burst into laughter, which he tried valiantly to quell.
You evil git! stormed Harry, and he tried to pinch Snape and discovered
YOU'RE TICKLISH! Harry crowed in delight, running his probing fingers up and down the trapped man's rib cage. Snape was quickly reduced to a quivering heap of giggles. As he struggled to get enough air in to his tortured lungs, Harry stopped his attack. The Potions Master was ill and he couldn't continue his torture'.
Snape managed, attacking a sick man.
Mental illness doesn't count, Harry chided him and was rewarded with a quick shove onto the floor. But looking up he could tell the Professor wasn't actually angry, only sore from sitting so long holding a gangly young man on his lap.
You're all elbows and knees, Potter. Need to grow
a little more and fill out those sharp edges, Snape groused. Before he could recover he had his lap filled again, this time with the Headmaster. Sighing, he put his arms around his friend.
You are a brat, too, Albus. But at least you're better
padded, he rested his head on Dumbledore's.
Haven't heard you laugh in a long time, whispered the older man.
I miss your laugh, Severus. They hugged then separated, a quick kiss tendered to Snape's forehead. Dumbledore scooted to sit next to his friend and leaned over to pull Harry upright.
So, what did you bring to Professor Snape? Dumbledore asked, happy for the diversion. Harry opened the packet of books, setting two aside for Snape.
I never knew you published a couple texts, Severus, Harry commented, holding out the book on common potions. The Headmaster grinned as he took it.
Oh, yes, he has. I'm surprised you found out; very few
students seem to discover the books the faculty have
written, he glanced through the book at the potions. Snape sighed as he leaned back tired.
Even the illustrious Headmaster has a tome or two on the
shelves, Snape stifled a huge yawn. Dumbledore looked askance.
Are you tired Professor Snape? the older man queried.
he said shortly. Dumbledore smiled and squeezed his shoulder.
Then let's rest before dinner, he said soothingly, moving the lounge close. He stood and went to the lounge, sitting back opened his arms invitingly. Snape attempted to stand, trembling as muscles strained to cooperate. He didn't think he could make the three feet over. Harry offered his hand to help him up.
Damned body, Snape cursed under his breath. With a lot of help he moved to Dumbledore and carefully spread himself over his friend sighing. Gentle hands ran over his back. He snugged his head against Dumbledore's chest.
Sleep, Severus, sleep and dream good dreams, the older man soothed, watching as eyelids fluttered and closed. Harry fed a little energy causing a low moan as the man settled fully into the warmth and safety. Soon silence reigned as all three dozed.
Dr. Barnes found them, Harry reading a potions book while the Professor and Headmaster slept. He grinned as he ran a curious hand over Snape's forehead. He was so close to being over the poisoning, except for a few low readings of a foxglove concentrate in the large muscles groups.
So, has his mood improved? he asked quietly.
I suppose so, we yelled at each other, then he lie down
with the Headmaster. He was pretty tired, Harry reported.
You argued and you lived? I thought he chewed
up students and spat them out, teased Barnes.
He's special groused Snape, I'm not allowed to
gnaw on him much.
Do you ever sleep? Harry taunted, watching the sneer spread over the man's face.
Can't with all this yakking, he drawled. Looking up at his doctor he said I need to go. The young doctor helped him up and walked with him towards the loo.
Gonna measure his output? Harry innocently asked.
was the only retort he got. He turned back and noted the Headmaster looking at him.
Thank you Harry, for pulling him out of that despicable
mood. I'd given up hope of getting through to him, Dumbledore said quietly.
You're more than welcome, replied Harry. I hate to see
him so rigid and in turmoil, but it is very hard to break
through without getting blasted. Of course, it was worth
it to find out he is ticklish, he smirked evilly. Dumbledore smiled back.
Just don't let anyone else know, he cautioned.
Harry declared. Let the others figure it out on their own; it was a cost and benefit of friendship with Snape. Standing, he helped the older wizard off the lounge. It was late, definitely time for dinner. He wondered if he should go down to the great hall.
You're more than welcome to eat with us, Harry, Dumbledore offered. He wanted the youth to stay and keep Snape in a lighter mood. A shuffling noise caught their attention and they turned as Snape came out, nearly falling. Only Barnes' quick thinking kept him on his feet.
Blast it all, Snape cursed. He stood still, trembling. Barnes held on, trying to see if a quick feed of energy would restore his control. Slowly Snape moved his left foot forward and got moving again, albeit very carefully.
You are doing better, Severus, it's just taking a lot longer
to cycle through, Barnes said encouragingly.
It's just so damned hard, he whined, I can't go
anywhere or be left alone.
The duo made it to the table. Snape settled down in the proffered chair and let the Headmaster push him in. Harry chose to sit next to him, Dumbledore flanking Snape's other side.
A knock at the door brought in Bill Weasley. He smiled and slid into the seat across from Dumbledore. Barnes joined him.
We need a deck of cards, commented Snape.
Stay awake and we'll play go fish' after dinner, Dumbledore smiled while Snape groaned and covered his face.
Forget I said anything about it!
Or Old Maid. I like Old Maid, Dumbledore continued in a chatty tone. Snape slid lower in his chair still groaning.
How about 52 pickup (n.1)? the Headmaster continued as if all were well.
You loved 52 pickup, Severus, sly sidewards glance.
I did not love' that game, Headmaster, he muttered from behind his robe sleeves. I remember I distinctly detested that
particular game.
Ah, but now you could teach it. I bet you'd like that, the sly grin on the Headmaster's face slowly transferred over to Snape as he thought about the possibilities.
he conceded, I might just find it a passable
diversion. He pulled himself up in his chair.
Dinner first, Severus, the older wizard chuckled. He figured Snape would enjoy teaching' the card game; he could just imagine the dumbfounded looks they'd get from the other three.
Dinner appeared before them, a mutton stew full of vegetables, crusty warm bread, iced juices and tea. Dishes were passed around; Snape noted he had lots of help filling his plate. He glared at Harry then Dumbledore, both pictures of angelic innocence. Snarling, he leaned over his plate so nothing else could be added.
Bill found the meal interesting. He hadn't known Harry had made not only peace with the indomitable Snape, but also friends. The Potions Master allowed the student a great deal of leeway in their interactions. He decided he'd have to learn more about how this incredible event happened.
Snape managed to finish most of the food on his plate, although he was now full and sleepy. He sipped at his tea and pushed dessert away. Cards were definitely out of the question. Setting the cup down he closed his eyes and leaned back a moment.
Anticipating this, Dumbledore waved a quiet charm and watched as the chair slowly reclined. A blanket floated over and soon the ill man was completely asleep, curled comfortably in the warmth.
Didn't make it, did he? observed Weasley.
Hasn't made it through any meal without falling asleep
by the end, said Dumbledore. And I'm gaining weight
having to take care of his desserts, he lamented, reaching for the wedge of pie. Harry leaned over, taking the offending pie away.
I'll take care of that, sir, he said politely as he took a large bite.
Severus was right. You are a brat, the Headmaster retorted.
Dr. Barnes slid around the table and checked his patient. He watched him sleep considering a new course of action.
I think I'll give him some energy potion tomorrow, he said aloud. Both Harry and Dumbledore looked up at him.
He won't be very happy, said the older man, he gets
pretty goofy on that stuff and stresses, doesn't he?
Yes, but if I give him the tranquilizer at the same
time it might help the stress part, Barnes considered.
I got the impression he didn't like the tranquilizer
either, said Harry.
Well, no, but at least he isn't stressed for a couple of
hours. The energy feed helped his muscle control earlier.
All four men considered this as they watched the Potions Master sleep.
My brothers will be back tomorrow, Weasley said.
Late afternoon, Dumbledore added.
It should be worn off by then. I'll get here early, or
my father will come over. We'll catch Severus while
he's still asleep and he'll do just fine, Barnes was confident it would work. He was sure the boost would help the weakness.
You have to stay with him the first hour or so, warned the Headmaster. I don't feel like dealing with Severus like that
right now.
I'll handle it, said Barnes.


(n.1: 52 Pickup: a muggle card game utilizing a full deck of standard cards jokers removed. Deck of cards is shuffled thoroughly. Dealer then picks up entire deck in one hand, flexing the cards slightly and sends them cascading in an arch onto the floor declaring 52 Pick-Up. The other player(s) pick up the cards from the floor while the dealer suppresses laughter. This game is usually played only one time as cards are lost under the davenport or behind the china hutch. Remaining cards can be used for card houses or inserted in the spokes of bicycles to make staccato motorbike noises thus enhancing the biking experience of the pre-adolescent.)