author: Raven Dancer
disclaimer: All characters property of JK Rowlings with the exceptions of the Drs. Barnes and Beryl.
summary: The day of the Door Rehanging Celebration arrives as well as a couple of unwelcome guests.
Finals over; Hogwart's inhabitants woke to a glorious June day. The sun dried the grass early and the air was heavy with the drone of Hagrid's honeybees. Banners were unfurled from the towers, the rich greens, reds, yellows and blues bold against the gray stone. Harry Potter grinned up at the rampant Gryffindor.
Certainly looks festive! he exclaimed. His companions, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger and a rather large black dog, agreed. They continued to stand in the courtyard as flags were run up various poles on the castle walls. Around them they heard the pleased comments of fellow students and staff that had woke early just to see the castle draped in school and house standards.
A hush filled the courtyard as the Headmaster appeared at the door, being led by an exuberant Remus Lupin. Behind, as quiet as a shadow, Professor Snape slipped out.
This is the first time I've seen him outside since that night, Hermione whispered to Harry. Still pale and weak, the Potions Master made his way carefully down the stone steps. Dumbledore waited patiently at the bottom, letting Lupin trot ahead to the middle of the yard to survey the riot of colors. Together they walked towards the excited DADA professor.
The dog took interest in the professor and sauntered over, carefully sniffing the edge of his robes.
Lupin exclaimed, kneeling to hug the animal. Conversations picked up throughout the courtyard, although most eyes followed the Potions Master. He had allowed the Headmaster to take his arm, offering some support. They made it to the center and turned to take in the sight.
It is magnificent, Albus, Snape whispered as he looked.
Yes, it is, the older man easily agreed. He glanced over at Lupin and the dog, very glad that Harry had owled his godfather. Lupin needed his best friend right now. He noted Snape shifted slightly, considering the dog.
The dog licked Lupin completely then snuffed and turned to the two. It carefully scanned the wizards' faces then slowly walked to them. Dumbledore immediately stroked the wide, intelligent head.
Welcome, Snuffles, he said. The dog leaned into the caress happily. Then it turned its attention to the other wizard.
Snape looked down at the animal. He wondered what had happened to all the anger and hate he'd managed to carry for nearly twenty years. It was gone.
Damn.
He then wondered what sort of welcome he should give the animal. Everything he'd nursed along had vanished at some point and instead he was filled with understanding. Snape understood suffering and sorrow, even if it wasn't exactly the same as this dog's. Further, he was in the process of change; he'd lost his death eater's charade rather decisively and was having problems with all the emotional upheavals in his life. He supposed that he could let go of some of his old ways and try some new ones.
He slowly knelt and opened his arms to the dog. The dog turned his head very slowly to the side, considering the wizard in front of him. Whatever passed through its mind wasn't recorded, but the dog stepped into the embrace and gently nuzzled the wizard's neck and face.
Hullo, Snuffles, Snape said simply. He released the animal and with a little help from Dumbledore, stood up. Snuffles sat at their feet and listened as Lupin chattered happily to fill the quiet. Harry and Hermione moved closer.
Harry whispered, not wanting to disturb Lupin's moment'. Snape looked to him, eyes guarded.
We've moved a bench for you to sit on, he nodded off to the side and was rewarded with an embarrassed smile. The tired professor quietly walked to the bench with the students and sat down gratefully. Harry and Hermione sat with him, Ron stood to one side. Harry slipped a hand onto the older wizard's arm, a slow energy feed following.
It's ok, Potter, Snape growled quietly.
Yes, it is, Harry smiled in agreement, not releasing the feed. It was going to be a long day and he'd need the energy. They watched the DADA professor's animated gestures as he looked over the castle. With an amused smile, Dumbledore moved over to the stone bench; Harry rose and let him sit by Snape.
People were moving again, many coming towards Lupin to discuss the evening's festivities. There was a lot to be done. Harry noted Snuffles slip away and curl up at headmaster's feet. Another stone bench slid near to them. Fred and George Weasley sat themselves down pretending to watch the courtyard. With a smile, Dumbledore nudged Snape who looked at both young men.
Good morning, Headmaster, Professor, Fred said quietly. Even the twins were subdued as Lupin continued to commandeer the bulk of attention in the courtyard.
We're glad you're up and better, Professor Snape, George added. Snape allowed a small smile and whispered thanks.
How are your potions going, gentlemen? Dumbledore asked mischievously. He had long gotten over his anger from the mishap earlier in the year.
Oh, fine. Bill is very good at potions. He just doesn't
appreciate our particular course of study, George answered a bit ruefully.
Now, you, Professor, you had a good sense of what
we were trying to do. Unfortunately Bill did not. We never
were able to test out a few potions we were interested
in, Fred said regretfully. Snape sat up a little, wondering where the conversation would lead them.
If by good sense' you mean I kept you and your brother
close to the emergency shower, then I would concur, he said with a slight growl. Harry had to turn and cover his mouth pretending to cough to keep from snickering.
Well, yes, that would be one instance, allowed George,
although we were referring more to your vast knowledge
in brewing potions. You could easily tell what potential
problems we would encounter by reviewing the ingredient
list.
When it was complete, Dumbledore said darkly, considering finding that lost anger. Snape nudged him gently.
Yes, I was able to do that, Snape allowed gugdingly. Fred and George looked at one another, trying to decide whether they should continue. With a slight shrug, George nodded at his twin.
Well, we were wondering if you had time to consider our
proposition. To be a silent partner in our endeavors, Fred quietly inquired. Snape drew in a deep breath, considering.
I have had adequate time to consider, gentlemen, he allowed, but said no more. He still enjoyed baiting students; these two provided him much amusement. The twins again glanced at each other.
Then, have you reached a decision, sir? George hesitated. Snape looked at them carefully, then Dumbledore.
I find myself with some free time as certain assignments
have been removed from my schedule. I suppose I
could look over your potions' lists, if you were to send them
to me, which was as close to yes' as he could get. A quick grin passed from one twin to the other, then quickly disappeared.
That would be acceptable, Professor Snape. Perhaps
we could speak later this weekend? Before we leave
for home? Fred managed to keep calm.
Certainly. Check with me at lunch tomorrow. I'm sure
I will have some free time this weekend, Snape gave a quick smile, then turned his attention back to the castle as the final banner unfurled: the school standard over the main entry. The castle was all dressed up and ready to celebrate.
Lupin finally noted the benches and the small group. He was a bit upset and approached them quickly.
These benches shouldn't be here! he said aggressively.
Put them back and straighten up the courtyard! The students looked surprised, Snape looked impassive. Dumbledore raised an eyebrow and nudged the dog. Something was amiss but he couldn't put a finger on what.
We'll put them back when we go in to breakfast, Snape said more gently than he felt. Lupin put his hands on his hips ready to scold them more, but Snuffles stood and went to nose the huffy wizard. A confused look passed over his face and he quickly tamped down his frustrations.
Well, as long as you put them back, he patted the dog's head. The dog nudged him towards the stairs, up and into the castle. Snape and Dumbledore watched the duo disappear.
He seems a bit controlling of late, Dumbledore remarked. Snape made no comment, simply glanced at him. Harry snorted.
A bit? Professor Lupin has everything down to the linens
and silver picked out for tonight, he began, he probably
even told the house elves what to cook for breakfast.
Fred and George excused themselves, moving their bench back. Ron followed, waving to Hermione and Harry to follow. The impromptu festivities were done; time for breakfast!
I'll see you later, Professor Snape, Harry asserted as he headed off. Snape sighed and stretched a bit, soaking up the warm sun. He felt good and as long as he didn't move about too much he'd be fine for the evening.
Ready, Professor? the Headmaster asked formally.
Yes, Headmaster, Snape answered. They stood, returned their bench and proceeded into the castle.
The day went quickly. Each house had about two hours to work on their part of the door. A rehearsal of toasts was held as well as a final run-through of the door presentations and Hermione's history. Dumbledore was very pleased.
As the Headmaster headed up to his rooms he noted Lupin scurrying around with a set of brightly colored formal robes. He smiled thinking the younger man had purchased himself a new set for the evening. Personally, Dumbledore was trying to decide between his deep emerald green robes shot with gold or the black set with the stars and moon emblazoned all over.
He didn't have to guess what Snape would wear; he'd brought up his formal velvet robes that morning after breakfast. He hadn't worn them in several years but they were in perfect shape. He supposed Snape would be bathing now in the Headmaster's washroom. He'd be next; it was nearing four o'clock and visitors would be arriving at 5:30.
Entering his study he found Snape dressed, hair neatly pulled back in a simple tail talking with Harry. The boy was dressed in a handsome set of deep green robes which accentuated his eyes. Well, then, he'd wear his black astronomical robes.
He'd just greeted the two when his door flew open and a slightly hysterical Lupin ploughed into the room.
Severus! I've been looking everywhere for you! Here are
your robes, and he held up the bright robes full of autumn oranges, yellows and greens. Snape raised a lip.
I have no intentions of wearing those! he grumbled.
I think Severus looks fine in his velvets, added Harry.
NO! These were sent up special! You have to wear
them Severus! Lupin nearly wailed. There was a scratching at the door and Snuffles managed to get into the study. He padded over to Lupin and transformed.
Look, Remus, I told you, Snape won't wear those! What
does it matter? Sirius Black stood next to his frantic friend, hand on shoulder.
But he has to! Everything will be ruined if he doesn't, Lupin exclaimed. No one needed to look at Snape. He'd never agree to wearing the bright color. Nor would anyone expect him to.
Look, Remus, I appreciate the fact you wanted to select
something special, but I won't wear that! I just don't wear
anything but black or very dark colors, Snape tried to be tactful. But Lupin would have none of it. Pushing his friend off he stormed up to the Potions Master.
You will wear these robes, Snape. You will, he asserted.
No, I won't, Snape said quietly. Standing, he walked past Lupin.
YES YOU WILL! Lupin shouted and whipping out his wand hit Snape's robe with a rending charm. The velvet robes nearly disintegrated leaving Snape standing in leggings and a shirt. Several emotions rocked the Potions Master's face, but finally it settled in anger. He stormed out the door.
I WON'T. I'M NOT GOING TO YOUR DAMNED PARTY, EITHER! he shrieked, slamming the door behind him.
He has to! muttered Lupin while the three wizards watched him cautiously.
Remus, what's wrong? Sirius once more put a hand on his friend's shoulder. It doesn't matter what Snape wears.
But these are special. They were sent here special, he murmured, upset. Harry looked at Dumbledore and stood, walking to the Headmaster he whispered,
Something is very wrong, sir. This isn't like Professor
Lupin at all. Dumbledore nodded in silent agreement.
Go by the door, don't let Remus out, he said very quietly. Moving slowly, both wizards soon were at opposition, with Lupin and Black in the middle. Lupin was still babbling on about the robes when Black noted the movement. The Headmaster motioned for him to step aside. Slowly he pulled out his wand.
Imperious Terminus! Dumbledore spat out, sending charm bolting into Lupin. The DADA Professor stood dazed, then slowly sank to his knees.
Finitum Imperious Incantantum, the Headmaster sent a stronger charm, this rocked Lupin and he nearly pitched forward. A strange smell filled the air momentarily, then dissipated. After looking at Dumbledore, Black moved towards his friend.
Remus? Are you all right? Hey Moony, Black slowly knelt by the trembling man and opened his arms. The dazed look cleared and Lupin stared at his friend.
Oh, gods, Sirius! he exclaimed, falling into his friend's arms. Harry rushed forward to help his godfather and friend. Dumbledore came slower, waiting until the initial shock passed. Lupin was crying in relief as Sirius held him tight.
sssh, it's ok Moony. It's all over now, he rocked Lupin gently. Dumbledore brushed Harry back.
the older man asked gently, Remus? We need
to talk. Tell us what happened to you.
I think it was about a month ago, just after Severus repelled
the dark wizards. I, I went into Hogsmeade for some
supplies and ran into Lucius Malfoy, he swallowed painfully at the memory.
He wasn't alone. They took me, oh Sirius, I was so
frightened, Black simply held all the tighter waiting for his friend to continue.
They took me to an old dilapidated manor and Vold, He who,
Voldemort was there. They put me under an Imperious
charm, they wanted to get Severus. They wanted him to
wear this robe, but I don't know why. I've, I've been trying
to let you know, anyone, that I wasn't in control, he started to cry again.
I kept following Severus everywhere. I just thought he'd
notice because he was a death eater.
He said you were acting strange, Remus, Dumbledore told the distraught man gently.
but he didn't understand and I just thought you were
jealous, he lowered his face, somewhat embarrassed. How wrong he'd been. They all were quiet for a moment. Then Black looked up.
What do they have planned for tonight, Remus? Did
they tell you?
I don't know. I managed to turn the robes that color;
they were black to begin with, Lupin leaned against Sirius, glad for his closeness. Carefully levitating the robes away from them, Dumbledore set them on the end of the couch. He looked at the three wizards.
We don't have much time. Something was planned for
tonight and we have to be ready, he waited until he had their attention.
Remus, I'm sorry, but you're going to have to go on with
the program as best you can. Sirius will stay with you
for the rest of the day and evening, the Headmaster turned to Harry.
Would you go to the dungeons and explain to Severus
what happened? Make him listen to you if you have to, he looked at the student.
He'll listen, I'm sure. But what about formal robes? Does
he have another set? Harry asked.
I have a set he liked before, Dumbledore said. He walked quickly into his room and returned with deep green-black robes. Small dragons danced along the edges. Harry accepted them with a grin.
We may be a little late; he was pretty mad, Harry said.
We're all going to be late if we don't hurry! Black interjected. Come on, Moony, let's get you downstairs, ok? and he transformed back into the large black dog, Snuffles.
Harry descended the stairs into the dungeons. Somehow he had the feeling he got the short end of the stick. Dumbledore was showering and the other two were going to the great hall. Squaring his shoulders he stood before the professor's door and knocked firmly.
He did not notice the large figure in the shadows that had followed him down the hallway. Before it reached him the door swung open and Harry went inside. It listened, but decided the door was charmed, it could not open it and no noise came out at all. The stalker slunk back into the shadows, waiting.
Come on, Potter, the voice hissed, haven't got all
day. Be a good lackey and fetch whatever that traitor
sent you for, the stalker missed the knock, thinking the boy had walked in on his own. He waited quite awhile. Nearly thirty minutes passed in that dark hall; he began to sweat. What if he missed Potter? He'd get toasted for damn sure. His boss did not tolerate any mistakes.
Moving out of the shadows the cloaked figure tried the doors again, and again they did not move. Wondering how to proceed he listened carefully at the door, going as far as to charm his hearing.
Nothing. Dead silence.
By now Malfoy would be in position. Both of them. He wiped the sweat off his forehead just as the door began to open. Whipping out his wand he readied himself. Potter stepped out into the hallway.
Got ya now, you rotten brat, and he quickly threw a binding charm capturing the youth. Before he could celebrate he was being thrown against the hard wall, his wand flying away from him. His own arms froze at his sides as a second person stepped out into the hall.
hissed Snape as he leaned over and helped Harry up. Are you ok, Harry? he asked as he looked at the young man.
Yes, I think so, Harry began, looking at the figure frozen against the wall.
Who's that? and he let Snape step forward.
the tall man spat out, lighting the would be attacker's face.
Goyle! Whatever are you doing here? Snape began then froze.
If Goyle is here, so is Lucius, he growled between clenched teeth.
Come, Harry. He won't be going anywhere, and he sent a second binding charm to hold the man in place. Together they strode up the stairway out of the dungeon.
Albus Dumbledore was standing in the middle of the great hall facing the one person he had no interest in seeing: Lucius Malfoy. surprisingly enough, his son Draco was not visible. He carefully put on his best poker face.
Well, Lucius, a pleasure to see you. I missed your name on
the rsvp lists, he managed. The cold man smiled, but it was not a happy smile.
Perhaps because I did not receive an invitation, Headmaster,
an oversight, I'm sure, he stepped closer to the older man. Dumbledore held his ground.
I doubt that, Lucius, he shot back just as cold. He noted Harry Potter coming towards him carrying a goblet of punch. He wanted to warn the lad off, to stay away, but Harry seemed to think he was suppose to be coming over. Lucius smile warmed as the young man stepped up.
Harry, thank you so much, he turned to Dumbledore.
I ran into Harry when I arrived and asked for him to fetch
you a drink. I'm sure you're parched. the Headmaster did not like this turn of events and Harry seemed a bit embarrassed by the whole ordeal. He reached out to take the goblet.
Actually, I'm not really thirsty. I've only just arrived
myself. We had a problem with some formal robes that
needed to be taken care of immediately, and he gazed into Malfoy's treacherous eyes. He held the goblet loosely, then gripped it. He considered taking a drink just to have something to do in that chasm of silence when a voice broke through the general babble around them.
Albus! Wait for me! It was Snape. Dumbledore turned in confusion. Snape never, never addressed him by his given name in public. Someone was following him, but their cloak was pulled up close covering the face. Plus the person seemed to be hiding behind him. Very strange.
The goblet was forgotten for the moment. Snape hurried up and smiled warmly, surprising both men and student.
Why, Lucius Malfoy, what a delight and surprise. And
Potter! How fortuitous. I was just thinking of you! the Potions Master reached out and took the goblet from Dumbledore.
You don't want punch, Albus. I'm sure Lupin arranged
for something stronger for us. Here, Harry. You look
like you could use a cold drink! and he handed the goblet to Harry who nervously licked his lips, looking from Malfoy to Dumbledore.
Oh, go on, Harry, have a swallow. I'm sure the elves
knocked themselves out brewing it, he looked directly into Malfoy's eyes, don't you agree, Malfoy? As the goblet rose two things happened simultaneously. Malfoy raised his hand and dashed the goblet to the floor and Snape drew his wand.
he hissed, catching Lucius easily. He turned and bound Harry with the next breath.
Dumbledore began, and then stopped as the mysterious shadow stepped out and dropped his cloak.
and he looked at both boys. Snape's gaze never left Malfoy.
This is bold, especially for you, Lucius, Snape began. Quickly understanding everything at once, Dumbledore took Snape's elbow and whispered into his ear. A short nod and both bound persons were carefully levitated towards a doorway. Although most people didn't really noticed the exchange fully, the Minister of Magic did and strode forward.
Headmaster, really! he began to pull out his wand. It was quickly intercepted by Snape.
Do not, minister, he hissed. Fudge glared angrily.
How dare you bind this man! I invited him when I found
out he'd not been invited. A glaring oversight, Headmaster! the minister's wand unbound Malfoy.
I suspect this man was attempting to poison the
Headmaster, Snape growled. As you can see, his
accomplice is disguised. He moved so that Fudge could see both the bound Harry and the unbound. The minister colored unable to control his emotions.
I do not pretend to understand what game is being played
here, Snape, but you will not mistreat Mr. Malfoy, he turned to leave. Lucius, let's go. This is a farce!
Malfoy leaned close to Snape,
Mark my words, traitor, you will be punished. I look
forward to seeing you in my dungeons soon, he hissed. Both Dumbledore and Snape heard him clearly. The evil man turned and stomped away leaving the bound Harry with them. The accomplice looked nervously from wizard to wizard but could not call out. Snape resumed levitating him into a small meeting room.
After making sure both the minister and Malfoy had left Dumbledore hurried back to Snape and the Harrys. The false Harry was seated in a chair, still partially bound.
They've left by coach, Dumbledore informed the room. He turned to the unHarry. And who have we here? he asked with a penetrating stare.
Since Goyle is downstairs bound I would guess either
another lackey of Malfoy's or possibly Draco. He did
hit the punch away; he'd do that for his son, Snape growled.
The potion should wear off soon, it's been nearly an
hour, the Headmaster commented. They sat, waiting. Harry was upset, but figured he wasn't as upset as his counterpart. After ten minutes Draco slowly reappeared. Dumbledore turned to Harry.
Now that Mr. Malfoy has rejoined us you may leave, Harry.
I will join you shortly. Please let Professor Lupin know I'll
be there! and he led Harry to the door and closed it firmly behind him. He turned and focused his considerable attention on the remaining student. Snape lifted his wand and released him.
So, Mr. Malfoy, an explanation would be appreciated, the Headmaster sat stiffly in a chair. Draco licked his lips wondering what he was to do. Wondering what they were going to do to him. Snape leaned forward, as if reading his mind.
he began more kindly than Dumbledore would have preferred.
I believe your father asked you to help him but I don't
think you knew exactly what he planned to do. Draco looked up into Snape's eyes.
What are you going to do to me, sir? he asked, voice cracking slightly. Snape looked at him thoughtfully.
I am going to do nothing to you, Draco. We only ask
that you tell us what you know, he said calmly. Draco swallowed dryly. With a wave of Snape's hand a pitcher of cold juice appeared. He poured out a glass, sipping it, then passed it to Draco. The gesture was not lost on the young man. He drank deeply then held the glass, staring into it.
My father was upset when he was not invited, at least
that was what he told me. He wanted to come, if only to
upset you, Headmaster, Draco took another sip and set the glass down.
He also mentioned wanting to see the savior of Hogwarts'.
And the disguise? Dumbledore pressed.
Part of the surprise', I suppose. Although now I see he
wanted you to drink some potion he put in the goblet. I
guess it was poison. He kept the vial, Draco said quietly.
Dumbledore thought quietly about the young man sitting nervously in front of him. He could not punish him even if he had known what his father had planned. Plus he wanted to be sure Draco would be back at Hogwarts next school year; if only to keep an eye on him. He slowly stood.
I thank you for your honesty, Mr. Malfoy. I must go and
perform my duties. Professor? Would you please see to
Mr. Malfoy's safe conduct out of the castle? Provide him
a carriage to Hogsmeade and sufficient monies to secure both
lodgings for tonight and a ticket on the express tomorrow, Dumbledore walked out the door, shutting it behind him.
I have to go? Draco asked. Snape looked at him quietly.
Yes, Draco. You will go home early. I will send an owl ahead
to the Three Broomsticks and have a room ready for you.
We will also send an owl to your mother so she will expect
you on the train tomorrow evening.
Draco sat silently, trying to figure out everything that had happened to him. He had been eager to please his father, to be part of the plan to disrupt the celebration. But the cold hard fact that he'd given poison to the Headmaster shook him. Draco had been certain he wanted to follow his father's footsteps and become one of Voldemort's inner circle. Now he felt betrayed.
Snape again leaned towards the boy.
Draco, you need to be careful now. You are moving in
dangerous circles.
he said palely. Snape shifted slightly.
I have moved in those circles for over twenty years,
child. I was once dazzled by the power and the glory. It is
all a lie.
But, but my father says we'll rule the world. We will be
in power, he tried to feel the surge he used to feel when his father confided in him.
Look at me, Draco. Am I benefitting from my long
years as a death eater? Do you see wealth? Friends?
Comforts? No. I have received nothing for my service
except pain. Both physical and emotional pain, Snape leaned back.
Yes, Draco. I am traitor. I spied on Voldemort and brought
the information back to the Headmaster. I couldn't murder
people simply because they weren't pureblood'. I
couldn't torture people because they didn't follow some
grand, ego-bloated scheme. No one has the right to control others for their own profit and amusement, Snape's eyes sought Draco's.
Voldemort will force you to do things for him, things that
will disgust you. Only because he can. It amuses him.
I'm sure he's waiting patiently for your father's report now.
How the great Dumbledore fell and the traitor delivered to
the dungeons. What will be your father's reward, Draco,
when he turns up empty-handed?
Draco squirmed. He remembered times when his father seemed to be in pain after returning from a meeting with Voldemort. He recalled Christmas vacation, his father had been bedridden with some sort of injury to his leg.
The last time I failed Voldemort with your father I was
bedridden for a week while the healer put my insides
back together. I was more fortunate than your father, he
also had his tendons severed from the extreme use of the
cruciatus curse. Draco, the doctors had to reattach his
muscles. That was his reward. Draco shivered under the dark gaze of the Potions Master.
I'm sure your father has not spoken to you of this part
of his service to Voldemort. I'm also sure you've seen
no other rewards. Just a promise that someday, when
Voldemort takes control he'll have power. Power to hurt
those weaker than himself. Draco recalled punishments from his father when he'd disappointed him. As a younger child they'd been simple, no dessert, a couple of spanks, left in his room on the bed for a span of time. But since Voldemort had risen, just this past year in fact, punishments had taken a decidedly nasty turn. He realized he feared his father and his reactions. Even though Draco had done what he'd been told to do he was certain he'd be punished for failure'. Was this what the reward' was? To be able to hurt someone weaker? Snape had given him a great deal to think about.
Let's go. I will arrange for the carriage and send some
house elves for your things, Snape walked to the door and waited for the younger man to collect his thoughts and follow him. They walked together through the castle, stopping in an office to write a note and summon Beryl to get Draco's things. The owls were dispatched and within 20 minutes Draco was climbing into a silent carriage with a small purse of galeons in his hand.
Snape grasped the student's arm.
I believe you don't like what is going on around you. I also
know you are more capable than you realize. You don't
need to follow your father. You can choose another route.
Think about your choices, Draco. Think long and hard.
Goodbye. As the Potions Master started to move back Draco grabbed him and hugged him tightly. Snape held him gently, patting his back, then put him back onto the seat.
Goodbye, Draco, the door closed and the young man was carried away into the dark night.
