Invenio Veritas
By Penpunk
Disclaimer: Nope. Not Mine. Don't sue me.
Chapter 10: Just an Act
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"You what?"
"Remembered my dream," said Harry as he hastily folded his cloak.
Severus stepped aside to let his son into the office. Harry walked by him and sat in a chair in front of Dumbledore's desk. Severus took a seat next to him. He looked over at his son who was quite pale and breathing shortly.
"Harry," said Severus, placing a hand on Harry's shoulder. "Harry, it's okay. Calm down and breath."
Harry looked at his father's concerned face and nodded. He took a few deep breaths and steadied himself.
"Now," continued Severus, "tell us what happened. What was in your dream?"
"It was a deatheater meeting," said Harry. "Voldemort was being updated by all the deatheaters on their missions."
"That is what Severus just told me, Harry," said Dumbledore. "Did you see your father?"
Harry nodded.
"So you know what his mission is?"
Harry nodded again.
"And the deatheater's children's mission?"
Harry nodded for a third time.
"Did you take your potion tonight?" asked Severus, as he ran his other hand through his hair.
"Yes, I did. Why didn't it work?" said Harry weakly.
"The connection must be stronger. Why else would you have remembered the dream . . . even though it was in fact reality," said Dumbledore.
"How are you feeling?" asked Severus. "Did you need the healing potion?"
Harry nodded. "I would have been up here sooner but I had a hard time moving. The healing potion took a long time to work."
"Severus, would it be possible to brew a stronger sleeping potion?"
Severus gave an affirmative nod before adding, "I can make the dreamless sleep potion stronger but we need to make sure it doesn't become addictive. Sometimes, when certain people, it can do that."
"That will be fine, Severus," said Dumbledore. "Now we have another issue to worry about. The effects of this connection you have are going to eventually show physically and now that the deatheater children have a mission to spot any weakness in Harry, Voldemort will definitely know about your condition."
"What can we do about that?" asked Severus as he took his hand off of Harry's shoulder and stood up to pace the room.
"Well, we could load him up with healing potions everyday while teaching him defensive skills that should rival those of an auror. Now, to me, that seems unlikely and unpleasant. Do you agree Harry?"
Harry nodded.
"So what do you suggest we do then?" asked Severus as he stopped pacing and crossed his arms over his chest.
"Well, I was thinking we could take a page out of Lily's book," said Dumbledore.
He was met by puzzled stares form both father and son.
"Harry, you have a lot going for you in that your true appearance has been hiding for fourteen years. No one knows what the true Harry looks like. We simply take off the charms and enroll you under a different name."
"Then how do we explain the sudden disappearance of Harry Potter? Voldemort will know someone leaked the mission. He'll know I leaked. I'll be as good as dead."
"Well, that's where this page out of Lily's book comes in. If she can make Harry look like Harry, we can certainly make someone else look like Harry."
Severus suddenly got Dumbledore's plan.
"Oh, I see. Do you think it will work? Who would we get to pose as Harry?"
"Well, someone perfectly healthy and someone with experience against dark arts, preferably an auror, someone we can trust."
"And who, may I ask, fits that description?"
Dumbledore smiled and said two words that made Severus cringe.
"Sirius Black."
At the sound of his godfather's name, Harry instantly smiled. To have Sirius at school all year would be great. It would also put him in danger.
"Professor," both men stopped arguing and turned to look at Harry. "It would be great for Sirius to be here but I don't want to put him in danger. You know Sirius, he acts and then thinks. I don't want him to go back to Azkaban just because of me."
Dumbledore smiled. "Harry, I know you care greatly for your godfather's well being but Sirius will be fine. He was one of the Ministry's finest aurors. I have no doubt in his ability."
"But that means I'm going to have to tell him."
Dumbledore looked slightly confused.
"Tell him what?"
Harry took a deep breath before continuing. "I'll have to tell him that Professor Snape is my father."
"Well, yes, he will have to know."
"Professor Snape and Sirius hate each other. You know that."
Severus looked down at his crossed arms. He never stopped to realize Black's reaction to this. It was true, he hated Sirius, but his son liked him. He was a father figure to Harry and someone he could look up to. Only Merlin knows why anyone would.
"Harry," began Severus. "Black may hate me but he cares about you. I don't think me being your father would change anything. He cared about your mother as much as James and I did and you are still her son. As much as I hate him, you need him and that is reason enough for him to be here."
Harry looked up at his father and gave him a small smile. Severus couldn't help himself. He smiled back.
"Then it's settled. I will get Sirius here as soon as possible. Harry, would you like to tell Sirius or would you rather I did it?"
Harry thought for a moment and then said, "I think I want to tell him but I would like to have you two in the room when I do it. I think news like this would definitely cause him to do something rash."
Dumbledore nodded. "I agree. It its alright with the both of you, I'd also like to tell Remus."
Harry nodded instantly but Severus was a little reluctant.
"Can we really trust him? He is a werewolf after all," Severus couldn't help but sneer in Dumbledore's direction.
"Now Severus, Harry trusts him and it would be nice if at least one other teacher knew."
Severus gave a slight nod and remained silent.
"I will sort out the particulars of this tomorrow. Let's plan on doing the switch on Saturday. Then Harry, you'll get sorted on Sunday."
"Sorted?" Harry said looking at Dumbledore, confused. "I have to be sorted?"
Dumbledore nodded. "Yes. It's been a very long time since we have sorted a transfer student but it has happened."
"But I will get sorted back into Gryffindor, right?" asked Harry looking back and forth between his father and Dumbledore.
"We'll know on Sunday, I guess," said Dumbledore.
Harry felt like a heavy weight had just been placed on his heart. If the sorting hat put him somewhere else . . . he would have to leave his best friends . . . he wouldn't see Sirius . . . .
"Harry," said Severus, seeing the looking of distress on his son's face, "you have so much of your mother in you, so much of her Gryffindor courage and bravery . . . you shouldn't worry."
Harry nodded and looked down at his hands.
"Albus, can we continue this conversation tomorrow? It's late and Harry needs to be rested. He has my class first thing and I will not have him falling asleep in there."
Harry looked up at Severus and saw the half smile directed at him.
"I quite agree, Severus," said Dumbledore. "You two have both had a long night. I will talk to both of you tomorrow. Sirius should be here by dinner. Good night Harry, Severus."
Severus gave a single nod and Harry gave him a quick wave.
After leaving the office, Severus stopped Harry part way down the stairs.
"Harry, I am sorry for what I said to you today. I was being insensitive and I apologize. You were venting and for good reason. I treated you horribly for the last four years and I deserved to be put right for all my assumptions. I am truly sorry."
"Its okay Professor," said Harry. "Really, it is. I shouldn't have gotten so angry. I am sorry for that."
Severus and Harry both stood in silence for a few moments. They had both apologized for something they though was their fault. This as not so out of character for Harry, but for Severus, admitting he was wrong was a big step.
"Well, um, I should probably get back up to the common room," said Harry as he unfolded his invisibility cloak.
"Oh, yes, well I guess I'll see you in the morning then," said Severus.
"Yeah, well good night Professor."
"Good night Harry."
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"Harry, what do you think his class'll be like now that you're his . . . you know . . .?" Ron asked as they walked down to the dungeons.
"Well, while I still look like me, probably the same," Harry said. He had told Ron and Hermione about the previous night early that morning in the common room. Ron had said nothing really. He just sat and stared for a few minutes. Hermione had said a few "Oh Harry!"s but she was just as shocked as Ron. They both didn't like the chance that their best friend could be taken away and even worse, him being replaced. It being Sirius was a bit of a consolation but they didn't want to lose Harry.
They entered the dungeon and took seats in the back of the classroom. Harry stole a quick glance over at Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle. Did they know their missions yet? Harry looked back to the front of the room. Snape, wait. . . his father wasn't there yet. Would he act different now that Harry was his son?
Severus made another grand entrance into the classroom. He stopped at the front and spun around quickly. Before speaking, he glanced quickly around the room, lingering on Harry for a few moments, then started his explanation of the day's potion.
"Today, you will be making the 'Din Quetta' potion. It can be very useful when done properly. It allows the drinkers to hear only each other's words. For example, two people could drink the potion and sit in a silent room full of people, talking, and no one would know what they were saying. Its difficult and I hardly expect anyone to do it properly. Weasley with Parkinson, Granger with Crabbe, Malfoy with. . ." Severus scanned the classroom and his eyes rested on Harry.
'Please don't, not with Malfoy,' thought Harry.
"Malfoy with Longbottom, Potter with Finnegan. The rest of you pair up and get started."
Harry breathed a silent sigh of relief and gave Hermione and Ron sympathetic looks. He carried his supplies and cauldron over to Seamus and began working.
Harry was done adding his ingredients and helping Seamus when Snape walked over. He pretended to be looking over Harry's cauldron when he dropped a crumpled piece of parchment next Harry when no one was looking.
"Two correct potions in a row Potter. That has to be a record."
Snape gave Harry his usual sneer, but his eyes were different. Malice and hate were missing from the black depths of his eyes and they seemed to be replaced by confusion and regret. Harry looked at Snape with an expressionless gaze and Snape looked from him to the note he dropped on his desk. He then turned around and walked back to his desk.
Harry watched him until he sat down and then picked up the note. It read:
Remember, it's just an act.
That was it. Harry looked from the note to Snape. What was that supposed to mean? He looked back down to the note and read it again.
"Potter, may I ask what makes that note you are reading much more interesting than this potion? Bring it up here."
Oh. . . just an act. Harry crumpled the note he was holding and walk up to his father's desk. He could hear Malfoy snickering as he passed his desk.
"Very clever Professor," said Harry after he turned his back to the rest of the class. "Do you need something?"
"I was just wondering if you were alright," said Severus in a whisper. He could see Malfoy craning his neck to hear what they were talking about. Harry nodded. "Good, um. . . I need you to yell at me. . . say something that would get you a detention."
"Why?"
"Just do it. . . remember its just an act."
Harry thought for a moment. "Can I say anything?"
Severus nodded. Harry smiled.
"I DIDN'T CHEAT PROFESSOR OR CAN YOU NOT GET THAT THROUGH YOUR GOOD FOR NOTHING GREASY SHIT FOR BRAINS HEAD OF YOURS!"
Severus stood up and looked absolutely furious. If Harry hadn't known it was an act, he would have been scared out of his wits.
"HOW DARE YOU TALK TO A PROFESSOR LIKE THAT! POTTER, YOU WILL SEE ME AFTER CLASS. YOU'RE LUCKY I'M NOT GOING TO GET YOU EXPELLED FOR THIS. YOU ARE GOING TO HAVE DETENTION WITH ME FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE!"
Harry stormed back to his seat and bottled his now done potion. He was doing all he could to keep from bursting out with laughter at the sight of his classmates' reactions. They were all looking at him in shock. The Gryffindors looked as though they wanted to carry Harry out of the classroom on their shoulders. The Slytherines were sending him death glares.
The bell rung to signal the end of the first class, and the students filed out of the classroom. The Gryffindors gave Harry sympathetic looks as they left. Malfoy and his bodyguards laughed as they walked by.
"Potter, my office," said Severus as he walked by Harry. He followed.
Severus shut the door behind him and took a seat at his desk. Harry sat in front of his desk.
"Harry, what you said to me, that was. . ."
Harry cut him off. "I'm sorry, you just said that I could say anything. I didn't mean. . ."
"No Harry, I was going to say that that was impressive. I'm going to have to remember that one."
Harry laughed.
"Anyway, the reason I wanted to talk to you was that Black arrived this morning before breakfast. Dumbledore talked to Lupin this morning and he flooed and came back with your godfather. Dumbledore has decided to move ahead our schedule and you will be sorted tomorrow.
"Tomorrow? All this is going so fast."
"I know, Harry, I'm sorry but the sooner we get you out of danger the better."
Harry nodded. "When am I going to tell him?"
"After dinner. We'll either do the switch tonight or tomorrow, depending on his reaction."
"Okay. I guess I have a few hours to decide what I'm going to tell him."
Severus stood up and walked to the door. "We'll meet you in Dumbledore's office immediately after dinner."
"Alright. Goodbye Professor."
"Goodbye Harry."
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Harry started up to Dumbledore's office just as Snape had told him to do. Normally, seeing his godfather would be a happy occasion but Harry was dreading every step that took him closer to Sirius. He was James Potter's best friend. The very thought of his best friend's supposed son helped him survive Azkaban. He risked his life to help Harry. What was he supposed to tell him. 'Hi Sirius, I'm really not James Potter's son. No, actually Snape is my father. You know, the man you've hated since school.' Harry sighed as he muttered the password to Dumbledore's office. 'Here we go.'
Harry knocked on the door and was met by his Godfather's smiling face.
"Harry! How are you?" said Sirius as he hugged Harry.
"I'm fine. How are you? You haven't gotten yourself into any trouble have you?"
"No Mum," said Sirius smiling. "Albus, now that Harry is here can you explain to me why I'm here?"
Harry and Sirius both took seats in front of Dumbledore's desk. Harry looked around the office and saw that both Lupin and this father were there. Severus looked slightly nervous but was doing a good job of hiding it. Lupin also looked nervous and kept shooting Sirius uneasy looks, and for good reason. Sirius was a time bomb just waiting to explode with this kind of news.
"Sirius," said Dumbledore, "recently, we all learned something that really changed everyone's situation here in this time and place. Harry would like to tell you himself, but I ask you to keep an open mind and think before you act on any feelings."
Sirius looked puzzled at Dumbldore's words. "Albus, surely it can't be that bad."
Severus snorted at this. Dumbledore gave a warning look to the potions professor and turned back to Sirius.
"Sirius, I didn't say it was bad news. It's just shocking. It was quite shocking to the parties involved, so please, just listen to what Harry has to say."
Sirius nodded and turned to Harry. Harry's hands suddenly became very interesting and he took a deep breath. He raised his head and looked into the gray depths of his godfather's eyes.
"Sirius, a few days ago, I got curious about my family. I wanted to know who my grandparents were and who else is on my. . . my dad's side of the family."
"Well, I don't blame you for being curious. . . is that it?"
"No. . . I found a spell that would make a list of my ancestors and. . . and I found out that. . . that. . ."
"Found out what?"
"I found out that James Potter is not my father."
"What? That's not possible. . . Albus, what is he talking about?"
"Its true," said Dumbledore. "James is not Harry's father."
Sirius turned back to Harry. He could see that Harry was hurting. He looked up at Sirius with sad green eyes, searching.
"Oh Harry. . . who is your father?"
Harry took a deep breath and looked over at Dumbledore. Dumbledore nodded. Harry turned and looked at his father who did the same. Lupin was looking ready to jump on Sirius in case he decided to do anything rash.
"Harry?"
"My father is. . . is. . . Professor Snape."
Sirius blinked. "What?"
"Its true, Sirius. He is."
Sirius was holding onto the arms of his chair with a death grip and his knuckles were turning white. Lupin could see his friend about to break and he jumped up and walked over to Sirius.
"Padfoot, listen. The only person who knows how this happened is Lily. Severus has had a memory charm placed on him. Harry and Severus are just as confused as you are. Sirius. . . say something."
"I don't know what to say. But Harry, you look so much like James. You always have."
"Lily put a charm on him when he was born. She knew he was Severus' son," said Dumbledore.
"And she didn't tell anyone?"
Severus couldn't stay silent any longer. "Of course she didn't, Black. Why else would she have used the charm?"
"Severus, please," said Dumbledore. "Sirius, we need to know how you feel about this."
Sirius put his head in his hands. It was several moments before he spoke.
"I don't know how I feel about this," He looked over at Harry. Harry was looking up but his eyes were unfocused and glassy. "I do know one thing Harry. This doesn't change the way I feel about you. I still want to be your Godfather. . . if that's okay with you. . . and your. . . father."
Harry looked suddenly at Sirius and smiled. "Of course I do Sirius! I was afraid you wouldn't like me because of who my father was."
Sirius smiled and turned to Severus. "Snape, will you allow me to be Harry's godfather?"
Severus looked over at Harry and saw how relieved he looked. As much as Severus hated Sirius, he liked to see Harry happy. Merlin, when did he start doing that?
Severus gave a quick nod.
"This worked out better than I expected," said Dumbledore. "Now Sirius, there is another reason why you're here."
Sirius turned from Harry and looked at Dumbledore.
"Harry is being watched by the deatheater's children. They are watching out for any weaknesses in Harry and reporting them back to Voldemort."
"Well, Harry is a strong kid. They wouldn't have anything to report."
"Yes, well last year that would be true," said Dumbledore. "But now, after the tournament, Harry has some kind of connection with Voldemort. Harry sees and feels everything Voldemort does. The children will see this and that will put Harry in danger."
Sirius thought for a moment. "What can I do. I'll do anything to help."
"That is good to hear Sirius," said Dumbledore. "We were wondering if you would be so kind as to pose as Harry for the rest of the year."
"What?"
"We are going to take the charms off of Harry and enroll him as Severus' son. We need you to be Harry."
Sirius thought for a moment and said, "I get to be Harry for the rest of the year?"
Dumbledore nodded.
"I get to go to all his classes, stay in Gryffindor Tower, all that stuff?"
Dumbledore nodded again.
"I'm in."
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Harry walked up to Gryffindor Tower. He was relieved. Knowing Sirius didn't hate him was a good thing. Tomorrow he would be a new person, literally. The charms were coming off and he was getting a new name. Harry walked up to Gryffindor Tower is spend his last night as Harry Potter.
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So there you go. Chapter 10 is finally done. I had a hard time with this one, I just hope that everyone likes it. I've also started a new fic if anyone is interested in reading it. Its only one chapter but it's humor which more of my thing. Please review. Thanks to everyone who has already. I've gotten great feedback from everyone. You guys are great!
Penpunk
By Penpunk
Disclaimer: Nope. Not Mine. Don't sue me.
Chapter 10: Just an Act
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"You what?"
"Remembered my dream," said Harry as he hastily folded his cloak.
Severus stepped aside to let his son into the office. Harry walked by him and sat in a chair in front of Dumbledore's desk. Severus took a seat next to him. He looked over at his son who was quite pale and breathing shortly.
"Harry," said Severus, placing a hand on Harry's shoulder. "Harry, it's okay. Calm down and breath."
Harry looked at his father's concerned face and nodded. He took a few deep breaths and steadied himself.
"Now," continued Severus, "tell us what happened. What was in your dream?"
"It was a deatheater meeting," said Harry. "Voldemort was being updated by all the deatheaters on their missions."
"That is what Severus just told me, Harry," said Dumbledore. "Did you see your father?"
Harry nodded.
"So you know what his mission is?"
Harry nodded again.
"And the deatheater's children's mission?"
Harry nodded for a third time.
"Did you take your potion tonight?" asked Severus, as he ran his other hand through his hair.
"Yes, I did. Why didn't it work?" said Harry weakly.
"The connection must be stronger. Why else would you have remembered the dream . . . even though it was in fact reality," said Dumbledore.
"How are you feeling?" asked Severus. "Did you need the healing potion?"
Harry nodded. "I would have been up here sooner but I had a hard time moving. The healing potion took a long time to work."
"Severus, would it be possible to brew a stronger sleeping potion?"
Severus gave an affirmative nod before adding, "I can make the dreamless sleep potion stronger but we need to make sure it doesn't become addictive. Sometimes, when certain people, it can do that."
"That will be fine, Severus," said Dumbledore. "Now we have another issue to worry about. The effects of this connection you have are going to eventually show physically and now that the deatheater children have a mission to spot any weakness in Harry, Voldemort will definitely know about your condition."
"What can we do about that?" asked Severus as he took his hand off of Harry's shoulder and stood up to pace the room.
"Well, we could load him up with healing potions everyday while teaching him defensive skills that should rival those of an auror. Now, to me, that seems unlikely and unpleasant. Do you agree Harry?"
Harry nodded.
"So what do you suggest we do then?" asked Severus as he stopped pacing and crossed his arms over his chest.
"Well, I was thinking we could take a page out of Lily's book," said Dumbledore.
He was met by puzzled stares form both father and son.
"Harry, you have a lot going for you in that your true appearance has been hiding for fourteen years. No one knows what the true Harry looks like. We simply take off the charms and enroll you under a different name."
"Then how do we explain the sudden disappearance of Harry Potter? Voldemort will know someone leaked the mission. He'll know I leaked. I'll be as good as dead."
"Well, that's where this page out of Lily's book comes in. If she can make Harry look like Harry, we can certainly make someone else look like Harry."
Severus suddenly got Dumbledore's plan.
"Oh, I see. Do you think it will work? Who would we get to pose as Harry?"
"Well, someone perfectly healthy and someone with experience against dark arts, preferably an auror, someone we can trust."
"And who, may I ask, fits that description?"
Dumbledore smiled and said two words that made Severus cringe.
"Sirius Black."
At the sound of his godfather's name, Harry instantly smiled. To have Sirius at school all year would be great. It would also put him in danger.
"Professor," both men stopped arguing and turned to look at Harry. "It would be great for Sirius to be here but I don't want to put him in danger. You know Sirius, he acts and then thinks. I don't want him to go back to Azkaban just because of me."
Dumbledore smiled. "Harry, I know you care greatly for your godfather's well being but Sirius will be fine. He was one of the Ministry's finest aurors. I have no doubt in his ability."
"But that means I'm going to have to tell him."
Dumbledore looked slightly confused.
"Tell him what?"
Harry took a deep breath before continuing. "I'll have to tell him that Professor Snape is my father."
"Well, yes, he will have to know."
"Professor Snape and Sirius hate each other. You know that."
Severus looked down at his crossed arms. He never stopped to realize Black's reaction to this. It was true, he hated Sirius, but his son liked him. He was a father figure to Harry and someone he could look up to. Only Merlin knows why anyone would.
"Harry," began Severus. "Black may hate me but he cares about you. I don't think me being your father would change anything. He cared about your mother as much as James and I did and you are still her son. As much as I hate him, you need him and that is reason enough for him to be here."
Harry looked up at his father and gave him a small smile. Severus couldn't help himself. He smiled back.
"Then it's settled. I will get Sirius here as soon as possible. Harry, would you like to tell Sirius or would you rather I did it?"
Harry thought for a moment and then said, "I think I want to tell him but I would like to have you two in the room when I do it. I think news like this would definitely cause him to do something rash."
Dumbledore nodded. "I agree. It its alright with the both of you, I'd also like to tell Remus."
Harry nodded instantly but Severus was a little reluctant.
"Can we really trust him? He is a werewolf after all," Severus couldn't help but sneer in Dumbledore's direction.
"Now Severus, Harry trusts him and it would be nice if at least one other teacher knew."
Severus gave a slight nod and remained silent.
"I will sort out the particulars of this tomorrow. Let's plan on doing the switch on Saturday. Then Harry, you'll get sorted on Sunday."
"Sorted?" Harry said looking at Dumbledore, confused. "I have to be sorted?"
Dumbledore nodded. "Yes. It's been a very long time since we have sorted a transfer student but it has happened."
"But I will get sorted back into Gryffindor, right?" asked Harry looking back and forth between his father and Dumbledore.
"We'll know on Sunday, I guess," said Dumbledore.
Harry felt like a heavy weight had just been placed on his heart. If the sorting hat put him somewhere else . . . he would have to leave his best friends . . . he wouldn't see Sirius . . . .
"Harry," said Severus, seeing the looking of distress on his son's face, "you have so much of your mother in you, so much of her Gryffindor courage and bravery . . . you shouldn't worry."
Harry nodded and looked down at his hands.
"Albus, can we continue this conversation tomorrow? It's late and Harry needs to be rested. He has my class first thing and I will not have him falling asleep in there."
Harry looked up at Severus and saw the half smile directed at him.
"I quite agree, Severus," said Dumbledore. "You two have both had a long night. I will talk to both of you tomorrow. Sirius should be here by dinner. Good night Harry, Severus."
Severus gave a single nod and Harry gave him a quick wave.
After leaving the office, Severus stopped Harry part way down the stairs.
"Harry, I am sorry for what I said to you today. I was being insensitive and I apologize. You were venting and for good reason. I treated you horribly for the last four years and I deserved to be put right for all my assumptions. I am truly sorry."
"Its okay Professor," said Harry. "Really, it is. I shouldn't have gotten so angry. I am sorry for that."
Severus and Harry both stood in silence for a few moments. They had both apologized for something they though was their fault. This as not so out of character for Harry, but for Severus, admitting he was wrong was a big step.
"Well, um, I should probably get back up to the common room," said Harry as he unfolded his invisibility cloak.
"Oh, yes, well I guess I'll see you in the morning then," said Severus.
"Yeah, well good night Professor."
"Good night Harry."
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"Harry, what do you think his class'll be like now that you're his . . . you know . . .?" Ron asked as they walked down to the dungeons.
"Well, while I still look like me, probably the same," Harry said. He had told Ron and Hermione about the previous night early that morning in the common room. Ron had said nothing really. He just sat and stared for a few minutes. Hermione had said a few "Oh Harry!"s but she was just as shocked as Ron. They both didn't like the chance that their best friend could be taken away and even worse, him being replaced. It being Sirius was a bit of a consolation but they didn't want to lose Harry.
They entered the dungeon and took seats in the back of the classroom. Harry stole a quick glance over at Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle. Did they know their missions yet? Harry looked back to the front of the room. Snape, wait. . . his father wasn't there yet. Would he act different now that Harry was his son?
Severus made another grand entrance into the classroom. He stopped at the front and spun around quickly. Before speaking, he glanced quickly around the room, lingering on Harry for a few moments, then started his explanation of the day's potion.
"Today, you will be making the 'Din Quetta' potion. It can be very useful when done properly. It allows the drinkers to hear only each other's words. For example, two people could drink the potion and sit in a silent room full of people, talking, and no one would know what they were saying. Its difficult and I hardly expect anyone to do it properly. Weasley with Parkinson, Granger with Crabbe, Malfoy with. . ." Severus scanned the classroom and his eyes rested on Harry.
'Please don't, not with Malfoy,' thought Harry.
"Malfoy with Longbottom, Potter with Finnegan. The rest of you pair up and get started."
Harry breathed a silent sigh of relief and gave Hermione and Ron sympathetic looks. He carried his supplies and cauldron over to Seamus and began working.
Harry was done adding his ingredients and helping Seamus when Snape walked over. He pretended to be looking over Harry's cauldron when he dropped a crumpled piece of parchment next Harry when no one was looking.
"Two correct potions in a row Potter. That has to be a record."
Snape gave Harry his usual sneer, but his eyes were different. Malice and hate were missing from the black depths of his eyes and they seemed to be replaced by confusion and regret. Harry looked at Snape with an expressionless gaze and Snape looked from him to the note he dropped on his desk. He then turned around and walked back to his desk.
Harry watched him until he sat down and then picked up the note. It read:
Remember, it's just an act.
That was it. Harry looked from the note to Snape. What was that supposed to mean? He looked back down to the note and read it again.
"Potter, may I ask what makes that note you are reading much more interesting than this potion? Bring it up here."
Oh. . . just an act. Harry crumpled the note he was holding and walk up to his father's desk. He could hear Malfoy snickering as he passed his desk.
"Very clever Professor," said Harry after he turned his back to the rest of the class. "Do you need something?"
"I was just wondering if you were alright," said Severus in a whisper. He could see Malfoy craning his neck to hear what they were talking about. Harry nodded. "Good, um. . . I need you to yell at me. . . say something that would get you a detention."
"Why?"
"Just do it. . . remember its just an act."
Harry thought for a moment. "Can I say anything?"
Severus nodded. Harry smiled.
"I DIDN'T CHEAT PROFESSOR OR CAN YOU NOT GET THAT THROUGH YOUR GOOD FOR NOTHING GREASY SHIT FOR BRAINS HEAD OF YOURS!"
Severus stood up and looked absolutely furious. If Harry hadn't known it was an act, he would have been scared out of his wits.
"HOW DARE YOU TALK TO A PROFESSOR LIKE THAT! POTTER, YOU WILL SEE ME AFTER CLASS. YOU'RE LUCKY I'M NOT GOING TO GET YOU EXPELLED FOR THIS. YOU ARE GOING TO HAVE DETENTION WITH ME FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE!"
Harry stormed back to his seat and bottled his now done potion. He was doing all he could to keep from bursting out with laughter at the sight of his classmates' reactions. They were all looking at him in shock. The Gryffindors looked as though they wanted to carry Harry out of the classroom on their shoulders. The Slytherines were sending him death glares.
The bell rung to signal the end of the first class, and the students filed out of the classroom. The Gryffindors gave Harry sympathetic looks as they left. Malfoy and his bodyguards laughed as they walked by.
"Potter, my office," said Severus as he walked by Harry. He followed.
Severus shut the door behind him and took a seat at his desk. Harry sat in front of his desk.
"Harry, what you said to me, that was. . ."
Harry cut him off. "I'm sorry, you just said that I could say anything. I didn't mean. . ."
"No Harry, I was going to say that that was impressive. I'm going to have to remember that one."
Harry laughed.
"Anyway, the reason I wanted to talk to you was that Black arrived this morning before breakfast. Dumbledore talked to Lupin this morning and he flooed and came back with your godfather. Dumbledore has decided to move ahead our schedule and you will be sorted tomorrow.
"Tomorrow? All this is going so fast."
"I know, Harry, I'm sorry but the sooner we get you out of danger the better."
Harry nodded. "When am I going to tell him?"
"After dinner. We'll either do the switch tonight or tomorrow, depending on his reaction."
"Okay. I guess I have a few hours to decide what I'm going to tell him."
Severus stood up and walked to the door. "We'll meet you in Dumbledore's office immediately after dinner."
"Alright. Goodbye Professor."
"Goodbye Harry."
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Harry started up to Dumbledore's office just as Snape had told him to do. Normally, seeing his godfather would be a happy occasion but Harry was dreading every step that took him closer to Sirius. He was James Potter's best friend. The very thought of his best friend's supposed son helped him survive Azkaban. He risked his life to help Harry. What was he supposed to tell him. 'Hi Sirius, I'm really not James Potter's son. No, actually Snape is my father. You know, the man you've hated since school.' Harry sighed as he muttered the password to Dumbledore's office. 'Here we go.'
Harry knocked on the door and was met by his Godfather's smiling face.
"Harry! How are you?" said Sirius as he hugged Harry.
"I'm fine. How are you? You haven't gotten yourself into any trouble have you?"
"No Mum," said Sirius smiling. "Albus, now that Harry is here can you explain to me why I'm here?"
Harry and Sirius both took seats in front of Dumbledore's desk. Harry looked around the office and saw that both Lupin and this father were there. Severus looked slightly nervous but was doing a good job of hiding it. Lupin also looked nervous and kept shooting Sirius uneasy looks, and for good reason. Sirius was a time bomb just waiting to explode with this kind of news.
"Sirius," said Dumbledore, "recently, we all learned something that really changed everyone's situation here in this time and place. Harry would like to tell you himself, but I ask you to keep an open mind and think before you act on any feelings."
Sirius looked puzzled at Dumbldore's words. "Albus, surely it can't be that bad."
Severus snorted at this. Dumbledore gave a warning look to the potions professor and turned back to Sirius.
"Sirius, I didn't say it was bad news. It's just shocking. It was quite shocking to the parties involved, so please, just listen to what Harry has to say."
Sirius nodded and turned to Harry. Harry's hands suddenly became very interesting and he took a deep breath. He raised his head and looked into the gray depths of his godfather's eyes.
"Sirius, a few days ago, I got curious about my family. I wanted to know who my grandparents were and who else is on my. . . my dad's side of the family."
"Well, I don't blame you for being curious. . . is that it?"
"No. . . I found a spell that would make a list of my ancestors and. . . and I found out that. . . that. . ."
"Found out what?"
"I found out that James Potter is not my father."
"What? That's not possible. . . Albus, what is he talking about?"
"Its true," said Dumbledore. "James is not Harry's father."
Sirius turned back to Harry. He could see that Harry was hurting. He looked up at Sirius with sad green eyes, searching.
"Oh Harry. . . who is your father?"
Harry took a deep breath and looked over at Dumbledore. Dumbledore nodded. Harry turned and looked at his father who did the same. Lupin was looking ready to jump on Sirius in case he decided to do anything rash.
"Harry?"
"My father is. . . is. . . Professor Snape."
Sirius blinked. "What?"
"Its true, Sirius. He is."
Sirius was holding onto the arms of his chair with a death grip and his knuckles were turning white. Lupin could see his friend about to break and he jumped up and walked over to Sirius.
"Padfoot, listen. The only person who knows how this happened is Lily. Severus has had a memory charm placed on him. Harry and Severus are just as confused as you are. Sirius. . . say something."
"I don't know what to say. But Harry, you look so much like James. You always have."
"Lily put a charm on him when he was born. She knew he was Severus' son," said Dumbledore.
"And she didn't tell anyone?"
Severus couldn't stay silent any longer. "Of course she didn't, Black. Why else would she have used the charm?"
"Severus, please," said Dumbledore. "Sirius, we need to know how you feel about this."
Sirius put his head in his hands. It was several moments before he spoke.
"I don't know how I feel about this," He looked over at Harry. Harry was looking up but his eyes were unfocused and glassy. "I do know one thing Harry. This doesn't change the way I feel about you. I still want to be your Godfather. . . if that's okay with you. . . and your. . . father."
Harry looked suddenly at Sirius and smiled. "Of course I do Sirius! I was afraid you wouldn't like me because of who my father was."
Sirius smiled and turned to Severus. "Snape, will you allow me to be Harry's godfather?"
Severus looked over at Harry and saw how relieved he looked. As much as Severus hated Sirius, he liked to see Harry happy. Merlin, when did he start doing that?
Severus gave a quick nod.
"This worked out better than I expected," said Dumbledore. "Now Sirius, there is another reason why you're here."
Sirius turned from Harry and looked at Dumbledore.
"Harry is being watched by the deatheater's children. They are watching out for any weaknesses in Harry and reporting them back to Voldemort."
"Well, Harry is a strong kid. They wouldn't have anything to report."
"Yes, well last year that would be true," said Dumbledore. "But now, after the tournament, Harry has some kind of connection with Voldemort. Harry sees and feels everything Voldemort does. The children will see this and that will put Harry in danger."
Sirius thought for a moment. "What can I do. I'll do anything to help."
"That is good to hear Sirius," said Dumbledore. "We were wondering if you would be so kind as to pose as Harry for the rest of the year."
"What?"
"We are going to take the charms off of Harry and enroll him as Severus' son. We need you to be Harry."
Sirius thought for a moment and said, "I get to be Harry for the rest of the year?"
Dumbledore nodded.
"I get to go to all his classes, stay in Gryffindor Tower, all that stuff?"
Dumbledore nodded again.
"I'm in."
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Harry walked up to Gryffindor Tower. He was relieved. Knowing Sirius didn't hate him was a good thing. Tomorrow he would be a new person, literally. The charms were coming off and he was getting a new name. Harry walked up to Gryffindor Tower is spend his last night as Harry Potter.
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So there you go. Chapter 10 is finally done. I had a hard time with this one, I just hope that everyone likes it. I've also started a new fic if anyone is interested in reading it. Its only one chapter but it's humor which more of my thing. Please review. Thanks to everyone who has already. I've gotten great feedback from everyone. You guys are great!
Penpunk