CHAPTER 6
Harry watch indicated that it was 9 pm as he stood outside of the wooden door with the knock ring. It had been 4 days since he was at Hogwarts. He was quite content with his stay so far. But however much he convinced himself that he liked to be alone, he somewhere felt the need of company. He smoked after dinner, a habit he had recently picked up. He wondered whether Jerome was back and if he had searched for Harry.
He had had his dinner in the Common Room alone, and had wandered out for a walk. He had his new books with him which had arrived just that afternoon, in case he felt like going to the library, but he didn't. The library was intimidating at night and a little eerie.
It was not his first choice to come here, mind you. He had gone to Dumbledore's office first but had found it empty.
His feet then brought him here. Harry chewed on his lower lip as he contemplated his next move. Would he be irritated if Harry knocked at this time? He probably would.
Fuck it. Harry thought and knocked.
There was light coming from under the door which told Harry that the man was awake.
A strong voice told him to enter and Harry opened the door.
Snape was hunched over some papers on his desk, scribbling and cutting. He looked up as Harry entered and put down his quill.
"Potter." He greeted. "Taking a stroll?"
"Good evening, Professor." Harry said as he stood in front of him. "I hope I didn't disturb you."
Severus raised an eyebrow at him. Was the boy genuinely being respectful or was this some trick?
"Have a seat." He said and Harry took a seat, looking around the office. Snape seemed to have redecorated since Harry was here 4 days ago. The books were rearranged and all old papers and files were missing. There were no horrible ingredients stacked all over the walls all in all it gave the office a clean look
"How are your assignments going?" Severus asked him uncharacteristically.
"Uh…good." Harry nodded. Frankly he didn't know why he was here. He just wanted to talk to someone maybe. But Snape was definitely not the right choice for seeking out in times of such need.
"I had a doubt." Harry blurted out. He couldn't just say he was there seeking company, could he? "You said I could come and ask."
Severus looked at him and nodded. Harry took out his book and parchment and passed it to Severus.
"Professor," he started, "I'm having trouble understanding the differences between using powdered asphodel root and sliced asphodel root in potions. The textbook says they have different properties, but it doesn't go into much detail. Could you explain when and why you would use one form over the other?"
Snape raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised but somewhat intrigued by Harry's question.
"Powdered asphodel root and sliced asphodel root do indeed serve different purposes in potion-making," Snape began, his tone switching to the same one he used in classroom. "Powdered asphodel root is typically used for its stabilizing properties. It can help to bind other ingredients together and prevent volatile reactions, making it ideal for potions that require a consistent, steady effect over time, such as the Calming Draught."
He leaned closer to the parchment handed to him, his dark eyes scrutinizing Harry's notes. "Sliced asphodel root, on the other hand, retains more of its natural potency and is used when you need the raw, unaltered properties of the ingredient. It's often utilized in more complex brews where the asphodel's effects need to be precisely controlled and released, such as in the Wiggenweld Potion, which requires a strong restorative component."
Snape straightened up.
"Understanding these nuances, Potter, is what separates a competent potion maker from an exceptional one. Perhaps there is hope for you yet, though I wouldn't count on it."
Harry, despite the sarcasm, felt a small spark of satisfaction at having engaged Snape in a meaningful discussion. "Thank you, Professor. That makes a lot more sense now."
Snape gave a curt nod, his usual sneer softening ever so slightly. "Very well. If you have any other questions, do not hesitate to ask. However, do not expect me to entertain every trivial query you might have."
Git.
Harry nodded. "Understood."
For a brief moment, it felt like they were just teacher and student, discussing potions. He put his books in his bag and saw Snape scrutinizing his notes.
"That's not my essay, they are just points I wrote down to add in." He felt the need to clarify. It felt weird watching his teacher read his notes, especially when he had made small cartoons of different magical creatures in them in his free time.
"Potter, since you seem to be taking your studies seriously for once, here's a question that will test your understanding of fifth-year potion-making. It's a topic you should be familiar with if you've been diligent."
Harry shifted uncomfortably. "Yes, Professor?"
This wasn't a part of the deal. I am here to ask questions. Harry thought nervously.
Snape's expression remained inscrutable. "As you have scribbled the word 'bicorn horn' over here beside the unicorn who is shooting rainbows out of its posterior, can you explain the process and significance of incorporating bicorn horn into the Polyjuice Potion? And why is it critical to the potion's transformative properties? I'm pretty sure you know all about Polyjuice Potion, what with your little experiments in your second year."
Harry had the decency to redden at the mention of his doodles and his second year but thought back to his studies and about their use of Polyjuice Potion in their second year.
"The bicorn horn is a crucial ingredient in the Polyjuice Potion because it contributes to the transformation aspect of the potion. The process involves grinding the horn into a fine powder, which is then added to the potion to help stabilize and enhance the magical properties that allow the drinker to assume the appearance of another person."
Snape's eyes narrowed slightly, though not with his usual disdain. "And why is the bicorn horn specifically necessary for this stabilization?"
Harry bit his lip, trying to recall the finer details. "The bicorn horn has unique properties that interact with the other ingredients, particularly the fluxweed and knotgrass, to ensure the transformation is complete and lasts for the intended duration. Its stabilizing effect is what prevents the potion from causing partial or incomplete transformations, which can be… dangerous?"
"Are you asking or telling, Potter."
"Uh…telling, sir."
Snape nodded slowly
"Adequate answer, Potter. Perhaps if you continue in this manner, you might manage to scrape an 'Exceeds Expectations' onyour next series of tests. However, I wouldn't hold my breath."
Harry couldn't help but feel a small sense of pride at having answered correctly. Snape was a git, his compliment extended this much itself.
Snape handed Harry's notes back to him and Harry stuffed them in his bag. He knew he should leave, but something was stopping him.
"What is it, Potter?" Severus asked, his tone as sharp as ever.
Harry shook his head and stood up. "Nothing."
"Sit," Severus ordered with a sigh. Elle had fallen asleep a while ago, giving Severus some time to work on his schedules and lesson plans for the next term and to experiment with new potion recipes.
Harry sat back down and glanced at the papers in front of Severus.
"Potter…" Severus began. "Is your mind still accessed by the Dark Lord?"
Harry frowned, thrown off by the question. "No, sir. I mean, nothing has happened yet." He unconsciously rubbed his scar.
"Are you waiting for it to happen, Potter?" Severus asked snidely.
"Why would I-?" Realization dawned on Harry. "No. I started reading some books on Occlumency," he admitted sheepishly. The man could have just outrightly asked him instead of beating around the bush.
Severus hummed in response.
"Sir, if I may speak freely?" Harry asked, his tone hesitant. Severus raised a sardonic eyebrow and nodded slightly.
Harry took a deep breath. "Last year…" He licked his lips. "Last year was tough for me. I was experiencing emotions that were not mine. I was kept from things that I believe were vital for me to know because I was a part of them. I had nightmares, and, well… there was Umbridge."
Severus snorted at that.
"I am aware of what I have done, and I am aware of the ramifications," Harry continued. "My letter to you this summer was not a mockery, even if it was written by me in drunken stupor. I genuinely am sorry." He looked into Severus' eyes, and Severus looked away.
Lily's eyes… he couldn't…
"I know things have never been really great between us, and frankly, I don't know why. It just always been that way, but I'm used to that. After losing Sirius, I realized the gravity of my actions over the summer, and I shouldn't have done what I did," Harry said in a small voice. "Hermione says I shouldn't act like my actions have no consequences."
Wise girl, Severus thought.
"I don't care what the world says about me, I don't care that you hate me, I don't care what happens. But I do care if my actions hurt someone. And for that, I genuinely apologize to you." He gulped. "I don't know why you brought me here. I don't know why you are even being civil towards me. But I owe you for what you did. Thank you, professor."
Severus couldn't react to anything the boy had just said. He was far too lost in thought. Had the boy really grown up in the past few weeks? Had the death of his Godfather made him somewhat prone to the realities of this world? Was this really Harry Potter?
Severus cleared his throat and sat up. "Potter, your… apology is noted," he said slowly. "I did not bring you here on my own. I was instructed by the headmaster, as I already told you."
Harry gave him half a smile. "Dumbledore knew what went on in Privet Drive. If he wanted to bring me to Hogwarts, he would have done it in my first year when I begged him not to send me back."
Damn it, Albus. What have you done?
"Anyways, I have started to read and practice some exercises for Occlumency. I don't know if I have a grip on it yet, but I am hopeful that I soon will. As for Voldemort," he looked as Severus winced at his name but kept quiet, "I believe he is using Occlumency against me as he realized that I could see inside his mind too."
"That is possible," Severus said.
Harry couldn't believe he was saying all these things in front of his most hated professor. And Snape… he was actually conversing? Well, in Harry's defence, there was no one he could go to.
"Have you written to your friends?" Severus couldn't help the small sneer that came out when he said 'friends.'
Harry shook his head. "Professor Dumbledore asked me not to mention any of this to them yet."
Severus was glad. If Granger and Weasley knew Potter was here, they would want to visit, which made Severus' task of hiding Elle more difficult.
"They still believe you are with the Dursleys?"
"Yeah." Harry said, a little too quickly.
Severus narrowed his eyes. "I know you haven't written to them all summer, Potter. And how do I know this, you ask? Because those two dunderheads have been writing to the headmaster about saving you."
Harry looked at him with shame. "I will let them know I am fine."
Are you though?
Severus watched as the boy fumbled with the strap of his bag. Something was wrong with Potter. He was never this level-headed. And Severus couldn't believe that he ever could be.
"You don't owe me anything, Potter," Severus said after a few moments of silence.
Harry bit his lower lip, an action which Severus hated. "It wasn't safe for you to be there," he said shortly, not wanting to divulge any details.
"I never thought you'd care. We haven't exactly been…well, on best of terms." Harry said, feeling a sudden streak of boldness in him. He had never had such a conversation with any adult, let alone Snape. He was squeezing the straps of his bag in an attempt to quench his thirst for a smoke. This conversation was proving to be very heavy emotionally.
"I didn't." Severus said shortly.
But Harry wasn't convinced. He looked at Snape, really looked at him. The man seemed conflicted, torn between his usual disdain and something else—something Harry couldn't quite place. Maybe it was pity, or understanding. Whatever it was, it was enough for Harry to keep talking.
"Why did you bring me here, then?" Harry asked quietly. "You don't exactly have a stellar reputation of being warm to me."
Severus sighed and steepled his hands in front of him. This was a tiring night. "Because, Potter, sometimes… sometimes it's not about what we want. It's about what we need to do. And what I did, was what I felt I needed to do."
Harry nodded slowly, feeling a strange sense of relief. Maybe, just maybe, he could find a way to move forward.
"Thank you, Professor, for clearing my doubts." He said and stood up. "I-I will leave you to your work."
Severus watched as the boy stumbled and almost ran out of the room. What in the Merlin's beard was going on with the boy?
Severus didn't know but he vowed to find out. Potter had never in his life shown any behaviour which resembled maturity.
Or maybe it was just him who had not seen it before?
Maybe, he too was to blame for the animosity between himself and the boy. His hatred fir James Potter had blinded him for too long.
/
Harry immediately ran to the Common Room. He locked the dormitory and put up anti-smell wards before throwing open his trunk. He rummaged around for his box of smokes and grabbed them along with the lighter. He took his usual seat in front of the window. The first puff was bliss for him. His hands stopped shaking and he felt a sense of calm wash over him.
He looked at his box and saw that only one cigarette was remaining. He needed to fill his stock. Maybe he could go to Hogsmeade tomorrow and buy some more. He wondered what he would do when his dorm mates came at the start of the term. Where could he smoke then? He knew for a fact that Seamus and Dean smoked, but not in Hogwarts. They always smoked in a place somewhere in Hogsmeade, out of the wards where no one could see or detect them.
Harry was still wondering why Dumbledore hadn't been made aware that he had gotten cigarettes. Was it because it was summer and the wards were down? That was highly unlikely, though. Harry shrugged as he put out his cigarette in a small box that he carried. He always ashed in that to leave no evidence.
He sat there watching the night sky for a little while and thinking about his conversation with Snape. It was surreal, really. Talking to Snape without yelling or sneering, having a somewhat civil conversation. Harry leaned back in his chair, his mind replaying the events of the evening. Snape's questions about Occlumency and Voldemort, the unexpected support—it all felt like stepping into an alternate reality.
He sighed and flicked the lighter open, watching the small flame dance for a moment before closing it again. The silence of the night was comforting, a stark contrast to the turmoil within him. He wondered if Snape was still up, working on his lesson plans or brewing some complex potion. The man was an enigma, and tonight had only deepened that mystery.
A rustling sound from the doorway broke his reverie. Harry quickly hid the box and lighter under a cushion and stood up, his heart racing. He opened the door, and to his relief, it was just an empty hallway, probably some rat or wind.
He sat back down, feeling a strange mix of gratitude and guilt. As he stared out at the stars, Harry's mind drifted to the upcoming term. How was he going to balance everything? The pressure of being the Chosen One, his unresolved grief over Sirius, his secret habit of smoking, and now Snape. It was all too much to process.
He sighed again, running a hand through his hair. He needed to get his act together. Maybe Snape was right. Maybe he did need to focus on Occlumency and mastering his mind. The thought of Voldemort invading his thoughts again was unbearable.
Determined to make some progress, Harry pulled out one of the Occlumency books he had borrowed from the library. He settled back into his bed and began to read, the words blurring slightly as fatigue set in. But he pushed on, knowing that this was important. He had to be ready. He had to be stronger.
Hours passed, and the first light of dawn began to creep into the room. Harry rubbed his eyes, feeling the weight of sleep pressing down on him. He closed the book and stretched, looking out at the sunrise. A new day was beginning, and with it, a new chance to make things right.
He got up and quietly kept his books and glasses on the bedside table before collapsing onto the mattress with a sigh. As he drifted off to sleep, his mind wandered back to Snape and the strange sense of understanding they had shared. Maybe this summer wouldn't be so bad after all.
/
"Daddy?"
Severus groaned and kept his eyes closed. He was starting to drift off again when he heard it again. "Daddy?"
He cracked open one eye and saw that it was 6 am. He had gone to sleep at 1 in the morning last night. 6 am was far too early for him to be up.
The door to his room opened and he heard the soft feet running up to him and climbing on his bed.
"Dad?" a small finger poked his cheek. Severus took the small hands in his big ones and pulled the little girl beside him, holding her against his chest.
"Elle, it's far too early for daddy to be up on a holiday. Why don't we sleep for one more hour, okay?"
Severus could feel Elle pouting but his grip on her was strong so she had no other choice but to keep lying.
"How long till an hour is up?"
Severus snorted in his sleep.
"I will let you know when it is up." He said as Elle settled beside him.
After an hour, Severus' alarm went off and he got up. He saw that the space beside him was empty and instantly panicked.
"Elle?" He called out and quickly got up. "Elle?"
He heard a small giggle from the living room and found Elle and Fizzby on the floor laughing as Fizzby made Elle's toy move and fight each other.
"Daddy look! Fizzy's making my animals real." Severus watched with a raised eyebrow as Elle's toy elephant walked over to a zebra and kicked it on its rear with a trump. Elle giggled as Fizzby gave Severus a huge grin.
"Apologies, Master Snape. Miss Elle was up, and Master Snape was still sleeping, so Fizzby thought he could entertain Miss Elle for a while till Master Snape got up."
"Thank you, Fizzby." Severus said with a relief. Fizzby really was God send. "Has she had her milk?" He asked as he went to prepare his coffee.
"Half of it, Master Snape." Fizzby reported. "I have kept it near her on the table in the living room."
Severus nodded and started his old muggle coffee machine. He liked to make his own coffee in the mornings with his own beans which he specially ordered.
"What would Master Snape like Fizzby to bring up for breakfast?" The elf asked.
"Porridge, honey and some fruit for Elle. Whichever is fresh. For me, just get some toast and eggs, please."
Fizzby bowed and disappeared with a snap.
Severus walked in the living room where Elle was sitting in her striped pyjamas still watching the animals run wild. Severus frowned. Fizzby wouldn't have charmed them.
Elle giggled. "Come on horsey, run!"
Severus watched as the horse ran, trying to save himself from the tiger that was behind him. Then he realised. Elle's accidental magic was showing up these days. There were many instances when Elle's magic had repaired a broken cup which she had dropped, shattered a window when she was having a tantrum, moved the books on the bookshelf and now, making her toys move.
Severus knew he had to keep a watch on the triggers and help Elle through such bursts of magic and help her learn to control them.
He softly kneeled down beside her and put a hand on her shoulder.
"Elle, come on." He said and helped her stand up. The toys instantly stopped moving. Elle's eyes widened.
"Daddy, they stopped." She spoke, her small eyebrows furrowed.
"Yes, you were making them move." He explained her.
"I am sorry." She said. She wasn't allowed to touch her father's wand. Or anyone else's for that matter.
"You don't have to apologise for doing magic, you silly girl." Severus said gently. "You know accidental magic is common with young witches and wizard. But we need to learn to control it."
Elle nodded.
"You will teach me?" She asked as Severus guided her to the bathroom.
"Of course I will. No child of mine is going to run wild without proper control," Severus drawled.
Elle snickered.
"Come, let's get ready. And then have some breakfast. How do you feel about helping me with some potions today?"
"I feel really great!" Elle bounced happily and followed her father into the bathroom.
/
Harry yawned as he got up. He looked at the clock and noticed it was almost lunch time. He had slept through the morning.
He slapped his cheeks with his hands to wake himself up. He had wasted almost half a day.
'Well, Harry, you should have gone to bed at a reasonable time instead of at 5 AM.' His conscience chided at him.
He quickly took a cold shower to wake himself fully. Wrapped in a towel, Harry looked at himself in the mirror.
He had grown this summer. Even though he never exercised, he had gained some muscles. Not as much as Ron or other boys in his year, but a little bit, his ribs still showed and poked out like branches. His height had also shot up a few centimetres. His face looked sallow due to his lack of sleep.
He quickly got dressed in some loose jeans and a grey shirt. He had started buying some clothes for himself since 3rd year. He couldn't keep wearing Dudley's old ones. He had brought himself a few pairs of under garments, shirts and t shirts and 2 pairs of jeans till now. He made a mental note to order some trousers and dress shirts. Maybe for Christmas or some other occasion. He also needed socks and a pair of shoes.
Harry knew what he had to do today. He picked up his book bag, a cap, and his wallet, checked for some money which he always kept, satisfied that he had enough to buy himself what he wanted and some books as well, Harry went out and towards Dumbledore's office.
"Sherbet Lemon." He gave the password and stood outside the door after knocking.
"Enter."
Harry entered and saw Dumbledore enjoying a cup of tea at his sofa near the huge windows with Fawkes at his side.
"Harry! Dear boy, come come."
Harry smiled as he sat in front of Dumbledore. Fawkes flew from Dumbledore's shoulder and perched himself on Harry.
"He likes you." Albus said with a smile as Harry petted the bird.
"Yes, he does. Hey, Fawkes." He said as Fawkes nuzzled in his neck.
"Going somewhere?" Albus asked when he spotted Harry's bag.
"Yes, professor. I wanted to go to Hogsmeade to get some supplies. Books and stationery, mostly." Harry said.
"Sure, sure." Albus nodded. "Hogsmeade is protected under Hogwarts' wards. However, if someone asks you what you are doing at Hogwarts, just tell them you are here for some training under my protection. And I trust you'll be careful and not wander out?" Albus looked at Harry over his spectacles.
"Of course not, Professor." Harry assured him. "I'll be back by dinner."
"Keep that cap on." Dumbledore said and nodded towards the black cap Harry had got with him. "Don't want many people to recognize you now, do we?" Harry nodded.
"Professor, where is Hagrid?" Harry asked as he watched Fawkes fly away and sit on Dumbledore's desk.
"Hagrid has gone to meet some of his family." Albus replied.
"Family?" Harry frowned. "I thought he just had Grawp."
Albus chuckled. "No, my boy, he has some family from his father's side out near Ireland. He has gone to visit them. He will be back in a few days."
Harry nodded and stood up. "Alright. I will take your leave, Professor."
"Harry."
Harry turned around in the middle of opening the door.
"I seem to be running low on lemon drops." Albus said and scratched his beard. "Would you be so kind to get me a bag?"
Harry grinned and nodded. "Will do, Professor."
/
Hogsmeade was bustling at this time of the year. Harry found himself smiling as he walked through the streets to the market. He had decided to have some lunch at Madame Rosmerta's before going and picking up his supplies.
He entered the Three Broomsticks and found himself a place to sit.
"Harry!" Madame Rosmerta came to him. "What a pleasant surprise, dear. What are you doing out here in the middle of summer?"
"Just here for some training under Professor Dumbledore." He said as he kept his bag beside him on the chair.
"Ah yes. Dark times, my dear, dark times." Rosmerta said with a scared face.
Harry just nodded. "Can I get your famous Shepherd's pie and some cold bee- butterbeer, please?" He cleared his throat at the slip.
"Of course, coming right up!"
After lunch, Harry first went to Honeydukes and picked himself some chocolates, candies and not one but two bags of lemon drop for Dumbledore.
Next, he went to Scrivenshaft's Quill Shop where he got himself a self-inking quill, a spell-check quill and some rolls of standard parchment.
He also went to Tomes and Scrolls and checked out any books that he needed, and after a lot of debating, got himself a book on advanced spells which was usually used for Auror training.
After walking for a while, Harry finally decided that now all he needed was his box of cigarettes. He walked to a distance and saw a few people loitering outside the Hog's Head Inn. The Hog's Head Inn was usually a seedy place and students were technically not allowed to go in.
In a small alley near Hog's head, found a few people smoking. He was grateful for the darkness in the alley as it would make it a little difficult for people to recognize him due to it. Harry went a wall and quickly cast a face altering charm on himself, just to be safe. He wasn't adept at it yet and could barely manage to change his appearance, but he decided it was enough. His hair shortened a little and his eyes and mouth changed a bit. Anyone who knew him could make out that it was Harry Potter, but Harry decided it was fine as long as he was wearing his cap and stayed in the shadows.
He walked with his head down, down the narrow, cobbled alley of Hogsmeade, pressing his cap further down his head and hiding his scar. He glanced around, ensuring no one he knew was nearby.
As he turned a corner, he spotted a figure huddled against the wall, puffing on a pipe and wrapped in a tattered cloak. The man's face was weathered, and his eyes held a distant, tired look.
Approaching with caution, Harry cleared his throat. "Excuse me, sir?"
The man looked up, his eyes narrowing slightly as he regarded Harry. "What's a young lad like yerself doin' out here, eh?"
"I... I was wondering if you knew where I could get some... um, cigarettes," Harry began tentatively, "But I need it to be... discreet. Like, without anyone knowing."
The man chuckled, a raspy sound that carried hints of bitterness. "Aye, wantin' to keep it a secret, do ya? 'Spose I can understand that." He took another puff from his pipe before pointing down the street. "Down that way, there's a little shop. No fancy signs, just a plain door. Knock three times, ask for Old Jack. He'll sort ya out."
Harry nodded gratefully, relief washing over him. "Thanks, sir. I appreciate it."
The man gave a half-hearted wave as Harry turned to leave. "Watch yerself out there, lad."
Taking the man's words to heart, Harry hurried down the street.
Harry cautiously approached the shop described by the man, its plain facade blending into the quieter side street of Hogsmeade. He knocked thrice on the door, unsure of what to expect. After a brief moment, the door creaked open just a crack, revealing a pair of suspicious eyes peering out.
"What d'ya want?" a gruff voice demanded.
Harry hesitated, glancing nervously around to ensure no one was watching. "Um, old Jack? I was told he could help me out with something."
The door swung open fully, revealing a dimly lit interior cluttered with shelves stocked with all sorts of weird things half of which had cobwebs in it. Harry shuddered as he was suddenly reminded of Knockturn alley. Old Jack, a weathered man with a tangled beard and a worn apron, regarded Harry with a mixture of curiosity and suspicion. "What you doin' 'ere? Lookin' for sweets? Honeydukes is not here."
Harry shifted uncomfortably, not used to being interrogated by strangers. "I just... I need something. Cigarettes. And maybe a bit of grass, if you got it?" he explained vaguely, hoping it would suffice.
Old Jack scratched his head, eyeing Harry with a scrutinizing gaze. "Ain't you a bit young for this kinda place?"
"I... um..." Harry stammered, feeling his cheeks flush with embarrassment. He knew he looked young for his age, especially compared to the grizzled old man before him.
Old Jack's expression softened slightly, sensing Harry's discomfort. "Alright, lad. But ya gotta keep this quiet, ya hear? No tellin' anyone 'bout this shop."
Harry nodded eagerly. "I won't tell anyone, I promise."
"What brand d'ya fancy then?" He asked. Harry told him the one introduced to him by Jerome's friends.
With a grunt, Old Jack turned and began rummaging through a dusty crate behind the counter. After a moment, he produced the box and slid it towards Harry. "Here ya go. That'll be a galleon and 2 sickles."
Relieved, Harry fumbled in his pocket for the coins, handing them over to Old Jack with a smile. "Thank you."
Old Jack nodded gruffly, watching as Harry hastily stuffed the box into his pocket. "You said wanted some green, did ya?"
Harry nodded. "Can you set me up?"
Old Jack scratched his beard as he regarded Harry. ""Not yet, lad. Ain't got no stock jus' yet."
Harry's face dropped.
"Come back next week, might 'ave somethin' fer ya." The man said.
He then squinted at Harry for a moment, his weathered face showing faint lines of recognition.
"Have I seen ye somewhere before?" he asked gruffly, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity.
Harry shifted uncomfortably, and pulled at his cap, trying to maintain his composure. "Uh, I don't know? I'm not around Hogsmeade a lot."
Old Jack nodded slowly, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Ye look familiar. Can't quite place it."
Harry's heart raced as he searched for a response and shrugged. "Couldnt be."
Old Jack grunted noncommittally, still studying Harry with a penetrating gaze. "Well, don't matter much to me. Just remember, keep yer business quiet, and we'll get along just fine. Off with ya now. And remember, not a word to anyone.".
"I hope you will keep it quiet too?" Harry asked.
Old Jack smirked. "In our business, it's better to not 'ave names an' faces. I got you, lad." Old Jack rasped, his voice carrying the weight of years spent in secrecy and caution.
Harry nodded before backing out of the shop with a quick "Goodbye" before hurrying back towards the busier streets of Hogsmeade. He toook off the glamour charm as he walked away. He couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement and guilt. He had managed to satisfy his craving, but he knew he was treading on dangerous ground.
He quickly made his way towards the Three Broomsticks, spent some time in Zonko's just to be safe and make sure people saw him, before making his way back to the Castle.
As Harry hurried back towards Hogwarts after his brief visit to Hogsmeade, he couldn't shake the unease that lingered from his encounter with Old Jack. The thrill of acquiring what he needed was quickly clouded by guilt and apprehension but he shrugged inwardly. Who cared.
Passing through the courtyard of Hogwarts, Harry spotted movement near the edge of the Forbidden Forest. Squinting against the fading light, he saw Severus Snape emerge from the shadows, accompanied by a small girl with dark hair. His curiosity piqued, Harry slowed his pace and discreetly moved closer for a better view.
Snape crouched down, producing a small toy that hovered in the air, causing the girl to laugh joyfully. Harry's heart skipped a beat as he realized he didn't recognize the child. Who was she? And why was Snape with her?
His eyes widened as a thought crossed his mind.
Did Snape kidnap her?
He shook his head. No, that can't be possible. Dumbledore would know.
He watched, transfixed yet conflicted. Snape's demeanour was completely different from what Harry was used to seeing in class—gentle, patient, and surprisingly affectionate. The girl seemed completely at ease with Snape, laughing freely as they played together.
And he was…laughing? Harry shuddered at the sight.
A wave of emotions surged through him—confusion and curiosity mostly. He debated silently whether he should approach them, ask Snape about the girl, or even mention it to someone else. But doubts crept in. What if he wasn't supposed to know?
As Snape and the girl moved further into the shadows near the forest, Harry made a split-second decision. He turned on his heel and hurried back towards the castle, his mind racing with questions and uncertainty. Climbing the stairs to Gryffindor Tower, he collapsed onto his bed, staring up at the canopy above.
The image of Snape playing with the mysterious girl replayed in his mind. Harry felt a mix of emotions—curiosity about the girl's identity, and a nagging feeling that he had stumbled upon something deeply personal. He knew one thing for certain—his perception of Severus Snape had been irrevocably altered.
Maybe she was just some other Professor's relative. But there was no one else in the castle. And even if there was, who in their right mind would give their child to Snape for babysitting? The idea itself was laughable and revolting at the same time.
Maybe he should ask Dumbledore. But no, it would look like prying. Although Harry did want to pry, with all his might. What if the girl needed help?
Questions swirled inside Harry's head and got up feeling dizzy.
"Dobby!" Harry called out.
The Elf came immediately.
"Harry Potter!" He squealed. "What can Dobby do for Harry Potter? Would Harry Potter like some dinner?"
"Uh…yeah, sure. Something light though, please." Harry replied. Dobby usually got a little too excited at the prospect of sending food to Harry. It left Harry with food that could feed the whole Gryffindor house twice.
"Coming right away, Harry Potter!"
"Dobby, wait!" Harry stopped him in mid snap.
"Yes Harry Potter?"
Harry wondered if he should ask or not and gave in.
"Dobby…is there a child in the castle? About 5-6 years old?"
Dobby's eyes widened. "A child? No, Harry Potter! Dobby does not know anything about a child. Would Harry Potter like Dobby to talk to other elves and find out?"
"No!" Harry said quickly. "No no. Don't do that. Don't tell anyone I said anything."
Dobby nodded.
Harry went down to the common room and sat with his legs on the table reading his Occlumency book and waiting on his dinner.
Just then, the door to the common room opened and Harry watched as Snape entered with a distasteful look in on his face as he looked around the red and golden room. Harry fought back a snort and put his feet down.
He wasn't sure how to react in front of the man. The man had been decent last night, and now Harry had seen him with a freaking child. It was going to be difficult to keep up the conversation.
"Potter." Snape greeted him as he walked around the room, inspecting the noticeboard and the old circulars.
"Professor." Harry said in return and kept his book down the page he was reading open.
"I searched for you this afternoon." Snape said as he walked back to the sofas where Harry was sitting. He grimaced at the red sofa and decided to keep standing instead of taking a seat.
"Yeah, I was in Hogsmeade." Harry said, keeping his tone neutral. "I had informed Professor Dumbledore."
"Yes." Snape said and looked at the book kept in front of Harry. "I trust everything went well?"
Harry nodded. "Yes, sir."
"Any progress?" Snape said and pointed at the book.
Harry shrugged. "Maybe. I don't know."
"Do you even know the first step, Potter?" Snape said shortly.
Harry narrowed his eyes.
"Yes, and it's far more detailed than clear your mind." He said as he repeated the words Snape had said to him numerous times during their occlumency lessons last year.
"Check your tone, Potter." Severus hissed. Harry huffed.
There goes last night's civility.
"Well? Explain the first step to me." Snape said as he walked in front of the fireplace.
Harry rolled his eyes. "Do we really have to do this? We established that you teaching me Occlumency does not work."
Snape looked at him with irritation. Here he was trying to help the brat, and Potter, as usual was throwing attitude.
"Do you see anyone else over here who knows Occlumency, Potter? I am your best bet at learning this." Snape said.
"Dumbledore can teach me." Harry muttered darkly. He wasn't keen on starting lessons with Snape again.
"Professor Dumbledore is a busy man. There is a reason why he handed me this responsibility." Snape retorted.
Harry sighed.
"The first step is to obviously know my basics." He started begrudgingly.
"And do you?"
"Yes, I do." Harry said, a little bit of attitude seeping his tone.
"Next?"
"Sir-"
"Next, Potter!" Snape said angrily.
"It's mental preparation." Harry ratted off what he had read. "This involves regular mental exercises to strengthen a person's focus and willpower."
"Are you doing those?" Snape asked him.
"Yes. Every night before bed." He wasn't lying. He actually did practice some mental exercised to keep his focus and emotions in check.
"Continue."
Now, Harry was irritated. He now really wanted to show Snape that he could learn without the man. Who did he think he was? Coming in here and quizzing him about Occlumency out of nowhere.
"Next, is your favourite," Snape scowled at the boy. "Clearing my mind and memory organization."
"And since you know so much better now, what exactly does 'clearing you mind' mean?" Snape asked him with a sneer.
"It means practicing emptying your mind of thoughts and emotions. This is often the first step and involves meditation or mindfulness exercises."
Snape nodded, ever so lightly as he stood in front of Harry. He then gestured with his hand for Harry to keep going.
Harry was getting tired of this. But he knew his material, and his goal was to not give Snape any kind of opportunity to belittle him again.
"Next, is practical application." Harry said mechanically. "It involves mind blocking, emotional neutralization and memory compartmentalization."
"And what does mind blocking means, Potter?" Snape asked him, now sitting in an armchair across from Harry.
"Visualizing barriers around your mind. This can be a mental wall, shield, or any form of protective imagery that helps you feel secure. And next comes-"
"Practicing with an expert." Snape completed for him.
"Well, yes." Harry said. He really did not want to practice with Snape. He knew the man was an expert and was hoping for an opening to show Harry how pathetic he was, but Harry didn't want to do that. He knew him learning occlumency was extremely important. If he had learnt it last year, maybe Sirius would probably be alive. No one said it outright, but Harry knew everyone was probably thinking it. He had started the mental exercises back at the Dursleys itself. He had remembered his lessons with Snape and whatever he remembered, he practiced. He stared into Snape's eyes defiantly, challenging him to ask him anything else.
Snape watched him for a few minutes before taking a deep breath and nodding. He stood up, his eyes not leaving Harry's for even a moment.
"There are three advanced techniques, Potter." He spoke. "Page number 487 of the book you're reading. Deflection, false thoughts and detection. You might want to take a look at those."
Harry didn't say anything but mentally noted the page number and nodded.
Snape took one last look around the room before turning to leave. He stood at the portrait before turning back.
"Learning occlumency is a long-term endeavor, Potter. It was foolish for us to think that a 15-year-old would learn it so quickly however parlous it might have been for you at that moment. It requires patience and persistence."
With that, Snape left, leaving Harry to decode his last few lines. Was that a pathetic attempt at saying that what happened with Sirius was not Harry's fault?
Severus walked through the corridors with a small part of him satisfied with the visit. Unknown to Potter, he had gently probed into the boy's mind, not far enough to make his presence known. What he had found had astonished him. Potter had actually cleared his mind.
When he entered, there was no chaos, no montage of memories running round the boy's mind. For a brief period of time, all Snape could see was white fog clouding the boy's mind. It showed that boy had actually been practicing for a while now. Otherwise, he couldn't have cleared his mind sub consciously during the conversation.
He had felt a few emotions, of anger, regret and frustration, but other than that, the boy was actually making progress.
He opened the door to his quarters and went inside with a small smirk. Yes, maybe Potter could actually put in some decent amount of effort into this and learn enough of it to actually be useful for him.
A/N - Thank you for your response, leave a review with your thoughts!