Register | Login | Search | Help | New Boards | Harassment Policy | Rules of the JC | TOS | Markup Codes
Post Reply | Active Topic Notification | Previous Active Topic | Next Active Topic
« 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 - Previous | Next | Reload
Author Topic: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 11/5
Kriztin  76 posts
Registered: Jan '09
Date Posted: 4/23 4:45pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 4/17
Hi again, everyone, and thank you all so much for your reviews! Here's chapter 28, and hopefully, if anyone had any questions about Voldemort's demise and horcruxes, they will be answered here. Please do remember that SC is (obviously) an AU, so there are some differences from canon here, too.

Thanks again!

Chapter 28

It was still cloudy and raining when Harry woke in the morning two days later. He thought that the weather somewhat matched his mood, for today was the day he was going to give his statement to the Ministry officials and the reporters, and he wasn't looking forward to it one little bit. Harry took a deep breath and reminded himself that Severus and Dumbledore were going to be there with him and Severus had assured him that they didn't have to stay long. Dumbledore was going to speak briefly at first, then Harry, and then they could leave. It wouldn't be too bad, he told himself.

But still he had to admit that he'd feel a whole lot better once it was over.

To distract himself he turned to look over at his night table. Every morning now he received a small gift from ‘Hedwig', the brightly-wrapped little bags waiting beside his glasses when he woke. Besides the chocolate frog and the Snitch, he'd received a new quill and a pack of self-shuffling playing cards.

But this morning ‘Hedwig' had really outdone ‘herself'. A large flat package lay on the night table and when Harry opened it, a set of finely-woven charcoal grey robes were folded neatly inside. He lifted them out and held them up to examine them. They were similar to his school robes, but there were slight differences...these had several narrow side pleats and a collar. A simple, but nicely-made white dress shirt lay in the box underneath the robes, too.

A short time later, Harry had dressed in the shirt, grey trousers and socks and black loafers. He slipped his new robes on and studied his reflection in the mirror. He was still too short and skinny, but he didn't look quite as gaunt as he had earlier in the summer. His colour was better, too. He wasn't as pale and the dark shadows under his eyes had faded. His hair...well, he'd accepted long ago that his hair would always look a bit mussed even under the best circumstances. But he didn't look bad, actually.

He couldn't help smiling a little as he adjusted the collar on the robes. So this was what it was like to have someone who cared, not just about the big stuff like whether he lived or died, but about the small things, too, like making sure he had nice clothes that were appropriate for the occasion. Sometimes it still seemed mind-boggling that it was Severus Snape who had become his someone-who-cared, but he did trust the professor now. He wasn't sure exactly what it would be like when they were back at Hogwarts, but he did know things would be different between Severus and himself...at least he was pretty sure...mostly...he hoped.

Harry started downstairs for breakfast at the same instant that the professor came out of his own bedroom. Severus was dressed in black, of course, but his robes, too, were nicer than usual, with emerald and silver trim.

Harry smiled at him and held out his arms to better display the new robes. "Look what Hedwig gave me this morning."

Severus nodded approvingly. "I'm sure she wanted you to look nice when we go to the Ministry."

"I'm glad she did. I do have dress robes, you know, back from the Yule Ball in fourth-year, but I may have grown at least a little since then. I realised last night that I don't know if they still fit," Harry told him.

"We will need to get you a new set if you have outgrown your old ones," Severus replied. "But dress robes are usually worn only at very formal events. Most wizards have robes like these for occasions that require them to look professional, but are not as decorous."

"Well, I really appreciate it." Harry glanced at him and said softly, "I hope Hedwig knows that."

Severus lightly touched his shoulder. "I'm sure she does."

His pleasure over the new clothes had distracted Harry from thinking about the day's events, but at breakfast his nerves returned in full force and he could only nibble at a piece of toast.

"Harry, you need to eat more," Severus said quietly.

But just looking at the plate of food made Harry's stomach churn. "I don't think I can. I feel a bit queasy."

The professor reached for his hand and the knots in his stomach loosened slightly at the familiar comforting gesture.

"Now, what is so upsetting to you, child?" Severus asked. "I understand that speaking before reporters isn't something to look forward to, but all you have to do is read the statement. It won't take very long and I'll be with you. You've faced much worse than this. Where's your Gryffindor bravery?"

Harry shook his head. "I actually don't feel very brave a lot of the time. Sometimes I think the hat made a mistake placing me in Gryffindor."

Severus gently squeezed his fingers. "That's rubbish, Harry. You're the most courageous person I know." He raised an eyebrow and added dryly, "Just think of all the times you've rushed headlong into danger without sparing a thought for your own safety."

"But none of that was really me being brave," Harry said. "It's just that if someone is in danger and I can help...well, then I have to."

Severus looked at him intently. "What exactly do you think courage is, Harry?"

He shrugged. "I don't know...not being scared of stuff, I guess."

"Perhaps in one form, but true courage is having the strength to overcome fear," Severus told him.

"But I don't overcome it," Harry admitted. "I'm scared a lot of the time."

"You do not allow your fears to control your actions," Severus replied. "You do what you think is right even if you are frightened. You have the courage to face death. You've certainly proven that. But you have the courage to face life, too."

Harry looked down at their intertwined fingers, suddenly feeling close to tears for some reason. But Severus didn't give him time to dwell. The professor continued briskly.

"So tell me, Harry, why are you so upset about speaking this morning?"

Harry thought carefully, trying to decide exactly what it was that bothered him so.

Finally he said, "I don't know. It's just seems like reporters are always twisting what I say and trying to make me look bad so everyone will be against me."

"Unfortunately that was true for a while," Severus answered. "But you were vindicated by the end of the year, and now everyone is quite wild for you. I don't think the reporters will try to make you look bad this time, and considering that you've freed us all from Voldemort, I certainly don't think that people are going to turn against you, whatever the papers print."

"I hope so."

It doesn't really matter what the public thinks, anyway," Severus assured him. "You have people who care for you and will stand with you, no matter what. You have your friends and you have more. You have a home and a family now, too. Harry, you don't have to face anything alone ever again."

Harry swallowed hard and let himself hold onto Severus' hand. "Thank you."

"You do not have to thank me," the professor told him. "I am the fortunate one here."

They were quiet for a few minutes and then Severus spoke more crisply. "Now, do you think you could eat a bit before we leave?"

Harry ate a few more bites of toast before setting the half-eaten slice of bread down and looking at him apologetically. "I'm just not very hungry, Severus."

The professor sighed. "Well, I suppose it's time to be on our way, anyhow. I do expect you to have more for lunch, though," he added sternly.

Harry nodded silently. He remained silent when Norie and Zan came to wish him luck, though he did give them a brief, nervous smile. Severus handed him a piece of parchment on which they'd written the statement and Harry folded it and slipped it into an inside pocket of his robes. Then he and Severus left.

They had received special permission to Floo into the Prime Minister's office...Harry remembered gratefully that Fudge had been forced to resign a few days ago; his popularity had declined sharply back in June once people had realised that Voldemort had indeed returned, and the fact that he had empowered Delores Umbridge who had recently been accused of abusing Hogwarts' students had been the final nail in the coffin of his political career.

Severus had said that Amelia Bones was the new Minister of Magic and Harry was glad of it. He remembered her from his hearing about performing underage magic a year ago. She had been stern and forbidding, but fair-minded. He thought that she would be a better Minister than Fudge had ever been.

She and Dumbledore were waiting when they stepped out of the fireplace into her office...a large room, but rather sparsely furnished, Harry thought, considering she was now the single most powerful person within the Ministry. Amelia Bones was a short, rather stocky woman with graying hair and a monocle. She wore plain black in sharp contrast to the headmaster's sparkling sapphire-blue robes. They had been seated in a pair of armchairs, apparently chatting amiably, but when Harry and Severus arrived, they stood and Madam Bones came forward to shake hands in a straightforward manner.

"Professor Snape, Mr. Potter, it's very good of you to meet with us this morning. Mr. Potter, if I may, I would like to offer you my sincere congratulations and gratitude for the defeat of Voldemort. We are all in your debt."

Harry felt himself turning red. "Um, thank you very much, ma'am."

Severus nodded politely. "Madam Bones."

"If you'll forgive me, Mr. Potter," Madam Bones continued, sounding slightly less formal. "There were rumors that you were injured in the battle and had to stay at St. Mungo's for a few days. I hope you're feeling better now."

"Yes, ma'am, I'm fine." Harry risked giving her a tiny smile. "And Madam Bones, thank you for listening to my side last year at that hearing."

But the Minister shook her head. "Nonsense, Mr. Potter. You don't have to thank me for upholding the law and trying to see that your rights weren't violated. The entire thing was ridiculous, anyway...a full trial for underage magic, but Fudge always was ridiculous. Good riddance to him. And as for Delores Umbridge...well, seeing as I'm sitting at her trial next week, I'd best keep my personal opinions to myself."

Dumbledore greeted them next and then Madam Bones ushered them from her office, saying, "Well, if you'll come this way, I'm sure all the reporters are eagerly awaiting us."

Harry's stomach clenched painfully again as he, Severus, and Dumbledore followed her out into a larger lobby and down the hall to a lift. Several assistants leaped up from desks and started to accompany them as well, but Madam Bones waved them back to their work, and it was only the four of them who stepped into the lift.

Harry bit his lip and stared down at the carpet as the lift carried them down, but then Severus reached over and gave his hand a light reassuring squeeze and when Harry looked up, Dumbledore caught his eye and smiled and nodded. It helped to know that they were with him and as the lift came to a halt and a disembodied female voice announced coolly that they were at the Atrium, Harry lifted his chin, squared his shoulders, and followed the others with an outward air of calm.

Almost the instant he came into view he was blinded by the bright light of dozens of camera flashes going off all at once. There was a loud rumble of excited voices and then he could see that he, Severus, Dumbledore, and Madam Bones were standing on a raised platform while reporters crowded around below. It seemed like there were hundreds of them, though Harry knew in reality there couldn't possibly be. There weren't that many wizarding newspapers.

Madam Bones cast a Sonorous spell on herself and stepped forward. The reporters grew still and began taking notes as she welcomed them. She spoke only for a few minutes and then introduced Dumbledore.

"Good morning. I would like to thank you all for coming," he began. "As you know, we're here this morning because Harry has agreed to explain to everyone exactly what happened in Diagon Alley on the afternoon of July31st. But before he does, I would like to remind you of the conditions we've set. Harry is going to read his statement, and then he and Professor Snape will be leaving. If you have any questions, and I'm sure you will," he smiled good-naturedly at the reporters. "I shall do my best to answer them afterwards. Now, if you please..."

"Excuse me," one older wizard called out. "There is one matter that I believe is quite important for us all. Not to diminish Mr. Potter's achievement in the slightest, if he has indeed defeated He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named again, then we're all extremely grateful to him, but how do we know that this victory is permanent? I mean, Mr. Potter drove him away once before, as a small child, only to have the dark wizard return thirteen years later. Is it possible that He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named will return again?"

"No, it is not possible," Dumbledore replied. "Voldemort was able to return to his physical body a year ago because he did not die back in 1981. We all know of Voldemort's atrocities and his complete disregard for the sanctity of life. I'm sure none of you will be surprised to learn that he experimented with some of the darkest and most evil magic known to us. For many years, ever since the autumn of 1981 in fact, I have painstakingly searched for information about Voldemort and his activities. I can assure you that I have learned far more of his heinous deeds than anyone would wish to know. But through my research I did find the answer to how Voldemort seemed to conquer death. How many of you have ever heard of a horcrux?"

Some of the reporters looked horrified while others simply seemed puzzled. There was an outbreak of voices while they either exclaimed in revulsion or tried to find out what the fuss was over. Dumbledore waited a moment before continuing.

"If you have not heard before, a horcrux is a vessel in which a piece of soul may be stored. If one has created a horcrux, then one cannot die, at least not so long as the horcrux exists, for whatever happens to the body, part of the soul remains undamaged. But the creation of a horcrux is very difficult. The enchantments are in themselves complex and require power such as few wizards possess. But even more, to create a horcrux a wizard must commit the supreme act of evil...the murder of an innocent person."

The same reporter who had spoken before called again, looking shaken. "And He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named had created a horcrux?"

"It's perfectly all right to call him by name now," Dumbledore responded. "And yes, Voldemort had created a horcrux, or more accurately, he had created two."

There was another loud buzz of conversation. Dumbledore waited it out and then went on.

"Yes, I was fortunate enough to discover some of Voldemort's secret notes, and from reading them, it was obvious that at a young age, he had become enamored with the idea of creating a three-part soul. He believed three was a magical number that would somehow endow him with even more powers. So during the first war in the 1970s he made two horcruxes and the third piece of soul resided within his own body."

Dumbledore spoke more firmly than ever. "I am most pleased to inform you that both of Voldemort's horcruxes have been destroyed. Harry did away with one when he was only a second-year student at Hogwarts. With his permission, I will give you the full story after he's spoken." Dumbledore glanced over at Harry, who nodded at him. "I myself destroyed the other earlier this summer. I must add that I was grievously injured in the process and that if not for the quick actions and prodigious skill of Poppy Pomfrey and Severus Snape, I would have died. It is thanks to them that I am fully recovered. But both horcruxes were destroyed before the attack on Diagon Alley so there was nothing to tie Voldemort to life this time. I can assure you that he is indeed gone forever now."

More chatter erupted at this pronouncement and it was several long moments before Dumbledore spoke again. "Now I'll let Harry speak and I will ask you once again to please respect his wishes and hold any questions for me later."

Dumbledore moved over and Harry stepped forward, slipping the parchment from his pocket and trying to ignore the queasy feeling in the pit of his stomach. Then he realised that Severus had stepped forward with him, staying right beside him, just as he'd promised. It gave him a warm cozy feeling, in spite of his nerves, and in that first awful moment when he was standing there and everyone was staring and waiting for him to speak, it was only Severus' presence that gave him the confidence to begin.

Harry fixed his eyes on the parchment, though he really didn't need to...he knew the statement by heart...but it was easier to look at the paper than out at the sea of faces watching him.

"Um, good morning and...um, thank you again for coming. I...would like to explain exactly how Voldemort died and thank everyone for their support and concern for me when I was injured. I'm very happy that Voldemort is gone, but I don't feel that I deserve the credit for defeating him. My mother, Lily Potter, is truly the one who conquered him. I just happened to be in the right place at the right time."

"You see, Professor Snape had taken me to Diagon Alley for my birthday. I've been staying with him this summer because it seemed inevitable that Voldemort would try to attack me again at some point and Professor Snape is an expert in Defense Against the Dark Arts. So he's been instructing me and helping me prepare. But for my birthday, he was going to take me to Diagon Alley. We disguised ourselves with Polyjuice Potion to be safe and we'd spent part of the day there. In fact, we were about to leave because our last dose of Polyjuice was about to wear off when Voldemort and the Death Eaters came."

At that point, a voice that was only too familiar interrupted. "Excuse me, Mr. Potter, but isn't it rather unusual for a student to spend the entire holiday with a professor? And incidently, isn't Professor Snape the Potions instructor at Hogwarts? Surely there was someone more qualified in Defense that could have instructed you?"

Harry tore his eyes away from the parchment to see Rita Skeeter standing almost directly below them. Her hair was still set in rigid curls and her jeweled spectacles were perched precariously on the end of her nose. She wore bright poisonous-green robes and was gazing up at him with a false air of innocence and curiosity, but Harry had no doubts that her intentions were malicious.

"Um," he began uncertainly.

Beside him, he could feel Severus stiffen and could sense his fury. The professor started to speak, but before he could, Dumbledore had stepped forward.

"Professor Snape is man of many talents. He is one of the foremost Potions Masters in Europe, but he is also gifted in Defense. To answer your first question, yes, it is unusual for a student to stay with a professor over the holidays. It is also unusual for a student to have been personally singled out by Voldemort himself. We did what we felt was in Harry's best interests."

The headmaster's voice had been cool, but now it positively crackled with anger and authority. "Now, may I remind you, Ms. Skeeter, that you agreed to our conditions before entering the Ministry this morning, and that by attempting to question Harry, you have violated that agreement. If you do so again, you will be escorted from the premises."

Rita Skeeter's eyes narrowed, but she remained silent. Harry took a deep breath and continued describing the battle of Diagon Alley, how he and Severus had been separated (he left out the part about rescuing the little boy because it sounded too much like boasting), how the Polyjuice potion had worn off and Voldemort had recognised Severus, how he had tortured him because Severus had been a spy for Dumbledore and the Order, how Harry had come upon the scene and had challenged him, and finally how they had confronted one another and how his mother's protection had saved him again.

"So you see, it really wasn't me. I don't deserve the credit for defeating Voldemort. It was my mother who saved us all." Harry hesitated. It wasn't in the statement, but he felt that he needed to say something else, too. He swallowed hard and forced himself to look out at the reporters.

"I...I want to say that I think my father James Potter deserves some credit, too. He was really brave and he sacrificed his life to try to save my mother and me. And I know that my parents aren't the only ones. There are a lot of other people who have died or risked their lives fighting against evil. Professor Snape is one of them. He was a spy for our side and he helped to save a lot of innocent people. And there are a lot of others, too, like Remus Lupin and Nymphadora Tonks and Kingsley Shacklebolt and the Weasleys, and lots more, too. And I hope that everyone will remember them and honour them because these people are the real heroes."

A burst of applause broke out and Harry could only stare blankly at the reporters as they clapped and cheered for him. Then he felt a hand on his shoulder and turned to find Severus looking down at him with his black eyes warm with emotion. Harry had to smile at him.

It was easy to finish after that. When the applause dwindled, Harry said, "I know that there have been rumours that I was injured in the battle, and they're true. After Voldemort died, Bellatrix Lestrange cast a curse against me and I was hospitalised for two days. I want to thank the Healers and the staff at St. Mungo's, as well as everyone who sent me gifts and well-wishes. I appreciate it very much."

"Before I go, there is one last thing I need to say, and it's a bit awkward because I have to ask a favour from everyone. But for the past couple years my life has been very stressful. Now that Voldemort is gone, I'm hoping that everything can settle down, and I would be very grateful if people would allow me to have a quiet life from now on. I'm really just a normal kid, and I'd like to be able to have a normal life now. Thank you."

There was more applause and Madam Bones shook his hand and thanked him. Dumbledore beamed at him and then Severus guided him back into the lift. A few minutes they'd Flooed away from the Ministry, with Harry breathing a huge sigh of relief that this little publicity stunt was over.

 
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
Kriztin  76 posts
Registered: Jan '09
Date Posted: 4/23 4:49pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 4/17
They went back to Prince Hall, exiting from the fireplace in Severus' upstairs sitting room. Dumbledore had invited them to come to Hogwarts after the press conference, but Harry hadn't wanted to. It had struck Severus that it was the first time Harry had preferred Prince Hall to Hogwarts and he'd felt pleased, even though he was also a little concerned, knowing that the boy had always loved the school. But surely that was in large part because Hogwarts had been the closest thing to a home he'd ever had. Now that Harry had a real home at Prince Hall, it was only natural that his attachment to Hogwarts would begin to lessen, wasn't it?

Thinking of the fact that Harry's relatives had never provided him with love or security reminded Severus that they still needed to discuss the Dursleys. From his own brief visit to Privet Drive and the sketchy medical reports he'd gotten from Poppy he'd already deduced that they had been abusive even before he'd seen the old scars on Harry's back. Remembering that sight made Severus' blood boil, but he took a deep breath and pushed the anger away. The Dursleys would be brought to justice, one way or another, eventually. Severus had promised both Harry and himself, and he intended to keep that promise.

But right now, seeing the mingled exhaustion and anxiety on the boy's thin face, Severus decided that it wasn't the best time to mention the Dursleys.

"You were magnificent, Harry," he said, taking a seat on the sofa and motioning for the boy to join him.

Harry curled up in the corner of the sofa, his robes billowing as he drew his legs up to his chest and wrapped his arms around them. A defensive position, Severus noted, that Harry seemed to take when he felt sad or vulnerable, as if he were subconsciously trying to comfort or protect himself.

He flashed Severus a quick smile of thanks at the words, but it faded immediately and then he seemed tired and uneasy again.

"What's wrong?" Severus asked. "I thought you'd be relieved now that that's over."

"I am. It's just that I keep worrying that they'll find out about the spell. Rita Skeeter was already suspicious." Harry looked at Severus with anxious eyes.

"Ms. Skeeter is always on the hunt for a scandal, but I imagine she would have a difficult time discovering the spell." Severus personally thought that Draco Malfoy was the one they ought to be worried about, since he did know the actual incantation of the spell. He might not know what it meant, and it would be difficult for him to decipher, but it would not be impossible for him to do so. But it probably wasn't the right time to mention that to Harry either.

As it turned out, though, Harry was thinking along those lines, too.

"Malfoy could figure it out, couldn't he?"

Severus hesitated, but he didn't want to lie, even in the guise of offering comfort. "I suppose so," he admitted. But then seeing the look on Harry's face, he had to try to reassure him. "But it would be quite difficult for him. Albus has kept the book where he found the spell, and Draco would have to find some very rare texts on archaic languages and then spend hours translating, and this is assuming he remembers the incantation."

"He remembers," Harry said flatly.

Severus sighed. "Yes, I'm sure he does."

Harry looked away, biting his lip, and Severus had to try again. "But there's no real reason for Draco to attempt to decipher the spell. Albus told him you'd made a full recovery and it's quite likely that Draco believes the spell only had some temporary effect that has now completely worn off."

Harry swallowed hard and was silent for a few minutes, thinking it over. Then he said, "But won't he start to wonder when I'm living in your quarters instead of in the Gryffindor dorms?"

"We're going to say that you're still recovering from the curse Bellatrix Lestrange cast against you, that you have to take potions every night and be closely monitored. That should be sufficient explanation for your presence in my rooms," Severus responded.

Harry considered the ruse. "That sounds good. I think people will buy it," he finally nodded.

"Yes," Severus agreed. He studied Harry thoughtfully for a moment before saying, "But if people should happen to discover the truth..."

"They can't!"

"It would not be the end of the world," Severus continued firmly.

"Yes, it would!" Harry shook his head wildly. "How would you like for everyone to know you were a slave, if it were you?"

"I would hate it," Severus admitted. "I do understand how you feel, Harry. But I need you to try to understand that even if the public found out that the people who know you and care for you would stand by your side and help you through it."

Harry looked away, visibly upset. Severus reached over to rest a hand on his shoulder.

"What concerns me is that I believe the reason you're so distraught is because you feel inferior, as you told me the other day," Severus said softly. "And I can't bear for you to feel like that. Am I right, Harry? You told me then that you felt as if you weren't as good as others. Isn't that a large part of why you're so adamant about wanting to keep the spell a secret? You're afraid other people would see you as inferior, too?"

Tears rolled down Harry's cheeks and he bowed his head, hiding his face against his knees, until Severus moved closer and gathered him into his arms. Then he buried his face against Severus' shoulder as the professor held him close, one hand gently curling around the back of his neck

"Harry, shh, it's all right," Severus murmured. "It's just that you're such a good person. Can't you see it? You're caring and thoughtful and kind. I am amazed at how generous and forgiving you are. And I want you to realise what a great person you are, too."

But Harry shook his head and mumbled, "You're just saying that."

Severus sat back a little so he could look the boy in the eye. He arched an eyebrow. "Harry, how likely is it that I would ‘just say' something like that?"

Harry had to laugh a choked, little laugh, in spite of his tears. "Not very," he had to admit.

"Quite right. So you can be certain that I do mean it."

Harry averted his eyes and Severus hid a sigh. He knew it would take time to convince him. Harry had probably suffered from low self-esteem issues for most of his life, considering that he'd been raised in an abusive family, and now the slavery spell had compounded it a hundredfold. The miracle was that Harry had somehow survived and had not let himself become hostile and angry. Severus knew firsthand how easy it was to succumb to bitterness. But Harry truly was a wonderful person and Severus was determined that he would come to see that, too.

But it would take time.

He carded his fingers through Harry's hair. "I know that you've heard many harsh and derogatory comments about yourself for years, child, some of them from me. I am very sorry for all the things I've said and done in the past that have hurt you. I just wish there were a way that I could erase those things. But Harry, I did come to see how wrong I was this past summer. Why do you think that happened?"

Harry looked bewildered and uncertain. He opened his mouth, then closed it.

Severus decided not to make him answer. "Because I got to know you, the real you, not just a false image I had created in my own mind, and I saw that I'd been wrong about you. And believe me, Harry, it was not an easy thing for me to admit that I'd misjudged and mistreated you so badly. But you are such a wonderful person that I finally couldn't deny it any longer. Think about that when you are tempted to feel badly about yourself."

Harry hesitated, but finally gave a small nod. Severus hugged him close again and Harry leaned against him.

"But Severus, what if people do find out?"

"Then we will get through it...together," Severus replied quietly but firmly.

Harry sniffed and Severus could tell he was fighting tears again. He gently patted Harry's back and said softly. "Calm down, child. We will do everything possible to keep it secret, and if people should happen to discover the spell and things became too hard for you, we could always come back here to Prince Hall."

The boy looked up at him with sudden eager hope. "Really?"

For a second, Severus wondered if he'd spoken too rashly. Allowing Harry to virtually hide from the world at Prince Hall might not be the best thing for him in the long run, but Harry was looking at him so hopefully that Severus found he couldn't say no. Besides, there was a very good chance that Harry was getting in a fuss for nothing. It was quite possible that the spell would never be discovered anyway.

So he nodded. "Yes, if you want." Then, deciding that it was time to change the subject, he added, "Now, as I recall, you didn't eat much breakfast. Why don't we ask Norie to bring us some refreshments? I certainly think we've earned a treat."

A few minutes later, they were settling down to a mid-morning snack when green flames shot high in the fireplace and Albus came through. He had been invited back to Prince Hall once he had finished fielding questions from the reporters, but they hadn't known exactly when to expect him.

"Ah, Albus, we were just about to have some tea and cakes. Would you care for some?" Severus asked, gesturing for the headmaster to sit in one of the armchairs and conjuring a plate and cup for him.

"Thank you, Severus. That sounds delightful." Albus took his seat and smiled at them. "I thought our little press conference went rather well."

Harry still didn't seem entirely at ease, but his smile was a little more relaxed. "Thank you for being there with me, sir."

"You're very welcome, Harry. I was happy to be there for you," Albus told him. He paused and added, "I'm sorry that I've let you down so many times in the past."

"It's all right."

"No, it isn't," Albus told him. "But I will try to make up for it from now on, if it's not too late."

Harry just smiled at him again, seeming unsure of what to say. He was quiet as Severus and Albus discussed the morning's events. But the conversation soon turned to the upcoming school year.

"So when will the two of you be returning to Hogwarts?" Albus asked and Severus realised with a pang of regret that it would be time to leave the Hall soon. Of course he'd known that it was the middle of August, but somehow he hadn't thought about summer ending just yet. He didn't really mind being at Hogwarts. The school had been a refuge for him as well as for Harry.

But he didn't particularly enjoy teaching...maybe a few of the brighter students who actually had a talent for Potions, but most of the children had no appreciation for the subtle art that was his passion and no desire to learn it. They endured Severus and he endured them.

Becoming a professor had not been his life's ambition, most definitely. It had been a necessity, ever since he'd left Voldemort and gone to Albus for help and protection. But now...

It dawned on Severus that for perhaps the first time in his life he was free to choose his own path. If he didn't want to teach, he no longer had to. He no longer needed a cover for spying. He no longer needed Albus' protection, at least not in the same way. He could finally fulfill a long-time, once abandoned dream of devoting himself to Potions research...

He happened to glance over at Harry then and realised abruptly that no, he couldn't, at least not yet. He needed to stay at Hogwarts for two more years, long enough for Harry to finish his education there.

But that was all right. He loved Harry and he wanted to be there for him. Harry had given him everything, after all, including this newfound freedom.

Severus was struck anew at how unjust the whole situation was. They had to find a way to liberate him from that slavery spell. It would have been horribly wrong for anyone to have to live under it, but for Harry to suffer...Harry, who had given so much and done so much for everyone else...

He was ashamed, too, that only a few short weeks ago he would have been reluctant to free the boy. But not because he actually wanted Harry to be a slave. He didn't and never had. He'd just been afraid of losing the boy he'd grown to love so much.

But then he'd come so close to losing him anyway, to death, and he'd realised then how much Harry was hurting. And he'd known that if there were some way to free the boy, he would have to do it. He couldn't claim to love Harry and still subject him to the slavery spell, even if freedom meant that Harry would leave.

But lately, he'd begun to hope that Harry just might stay with him after all, even if he did have a choice. Harry had said that he loved Severus, and he seemed to be more comfortable with him. Perhaps even if he could be freed, Harry would still want them to be a family, too.

Of course, there was the little matter of finding a way to lift the curse.

Well, that was another reason for him to stay at Hogwarts. He would have more time to work with Albus on locating or developing a counter-spell if he were at the school. And they would find something. They had to.

Severus realised suddenly that both Harry and Albus were waiting for him to answer. "Oh, I suppose we'll return within a week or so. I need to be back a few days before classes begin. Speaking of which, we haven't bought all of Harry's supplies yet. Albus, do you think we would be mobbed if we went back to Diagon Alley before school resumes?"

"As I'm not a Seer, Severus, I'm not really sure," Albus replied lightly. "I would hope though that people will respect Harry's wishes. You could always give it a try and leave if it doesn't go well."

"Hmm, perhaps. What do you think, Harry?" Severus turned to the boy.

He slowly nodded. "We could try..." he began. Then an idea occurred to him. "Oh, Severus, do you think we could go with the Weasleys and Hermione? They haven't bought their school supplies either."

Severus just barely kept himself from grimacing. He knew that Harry needed his friends, and he'd accepted the idea of Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger coming to visit now and again. He wasn't exactly thrilled about it, but they made Harry happy and so he would tolerate them. He even had to admit that they'd been surprisingly polite and pleasant when they'd come. Of course he knew Harry would see a lot of them at Hogwarts and that was all right, too.

But he didn't like the idea of Harry being around the Weasley family as a whole. Harry's friends were just teenagers, but if Arthur, Molly, and all those older Weasley offspring were included...well, they were a family and a family that had wanted and included Harry long before Severus had grown to love him.

"We shall have to see," he answered. Something in his tone must have conveyed his disapproval because Harry's face fell, and of course Severus couldn't bear that.

"Perhaps, if they're agreeable to the idea as well," he amended and in spite of his reservations, he was touched when Harry gave him a genuine smile.

"Have you decided which courses you're going to take? You'll need to do that before you buy supplies," Albus pointed out.

"Mostly, I think," Harry replied.

They spent the next half hour discussing various classes and professors before Albus left to return to the school.

***

That evening Harry sat on his bed, surrounded by class lists and the career guides that Professor McGonagall had distributed towards the end of the last school term. He'd told Dumbledore that he had a fairly good idea of which courses he was going to take, and for the most part that was true.

If he wanted to be an Auror, he'd need to study Defense, naturally, and Transfiguration, Charms, and Potions. But there were still a couple of classes where he had a choice, and he just wasn't sure which would prove to be more important to him.

History of Magic could be...if Binns ever did anything besides drone on about the goblin rebellions. If he would tell them about dark wizards from the past and the ways that they'd been captured or killed, that might be something Harry would need to know. But Binns hadn't made it beyond goblins in the past five years and Harry doubted he would in the next two.

Then there was Herbology. Harry liked Professor Sprout and he'd always rather enjoyed her classes, too, not to mention Professor McGonagall had said that Herbology could be useful to an Auror...but according to the class lists, it was scheduled at the same time as Charms, which was a requirement for an Auror.

As for Care of Magical Creatures, well, Harry had to admit that as fond as he was of Hagrid, he'd rarely enjoyed Hagrid's classes, and he couldn't wait to drop Divination.

There were a couple of other subjects that he just wasn't sure of, either, and he'd spent the past hour alternately reading through the Auror career guide and the schedules and course offerings from Hogwarts. But he still didn't know what to take.

What he really needed was someone to talk with, someone who could help and advise him. The obvious person was Severus, and Harry had started to go to him a couple of times. He didn't think the professor would mind, but still it was so hard to go and ask him for help. Severus was a busy man and Harry didn't want to bother him or be a nuisance. He was sixteen, after all. He should be able to figure out a few simple things on his own.

But it would be nice to have someone to guide him, someone like a parent.

Harry looked at his door and bit his lip. Severus had said that he wanted Harry to come to him if he had any problems. But this wasn't really a problem, just something he could use a little help with. After a long time, he slowly gathered up his papers and left his room.

Severus was in his sitting room, reclining in a chair and reading a book. Harry paused in the doorway, suddenly reminded of times when he was little and had gone to his aunt or uncle for help. That had only happened a few times. He'd learned very quickly that he was better off keeping quiet and out of sight, even if meant he had to try to solve everything on his own.

But Severus wasn't like Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia. He wouldn't get angry if Harry interrupted him, would he?

But what if he did?

Harry almost slipped away back to his room again, but Severus must have sensed his presence and looked up.

"Harry? Did you need something?"

"Um..., not really." He ducked his head and felt himself turning red.

"Come in," Severus immediately got up from his chair and moved to the sofa, gesturing for Harry to join him.

Harry reluctantly took a few steps into the room, mumbling, "Sorry, I didn't mean to bother you. It's nothing, really."

"Harry, you're not bothering me. I'm very pleased that you came," Severus said softly. "Now, are those the class schedules from Hogwarts?"

"Um, yeah, I mean yes. There's a couple classes where I can choose, and I wasn't sure what to take, and I thought maybe..., but I could come back later if you're busy," Harry finished swiftly, halfway turning to leave.

Severus was at his side in an instant. "Harry, I would love to help, and I'm never too busy for you. Thank you for coming to me. Let's sit down and go through it all."

He guided Harry over to the sofa and they sat down, spreading the sheets of parchment on a little table before them. Severus glanced over the Auror requirements and then began perusing the schedules.

"Hmm, you definitely will need Herbology. I'm sure this time conflict is an oversight. Both Charms and Herbology are necessary for Healers and for several other careers besides Aurors. You won't be the only NEWT student who needs both. We'll speak with Pomona and Filius when we return. Now about Care of Magical Creatures..."

A short time later it was all settled. Harry was going to take Defense, Potions, Charms, Transfiguration, and Herbology (assuming they could work the timing out, which Severus seemed certain they could). Harry had one other period for a class, but Severus recommended that he use that time for independent study.

"You're right. There really aren't any other classes that would be much use to you," the professor said. "Arithmancy or Ancient Runes might have come in handy, but it's too late for you to pick them up at this point, I think. Sometimes examiners are wary of independent studies, because some students don't put in much effort, but we could have you study advanced defense with Albus and myself and we'll have your coursework well-documented. I think you'll be fine doing that."

As they arranged the parchment in neat stacks, Harry looked over and said quietly, "Thank you for helping me, Severus."

The professor placed an arm around his shoulders and gave him a gentle squeeze. "I was glad to, Harry. I mean that."

"Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia hated for me to bother them with anything," Harry said hesitantly. "They always had time to do stuff with Dudley, but they hated me. The first time the vacuum cleaner bag needed changing, I didn't know how to do it and it was hard reading the instructions. I was pretty little then and just learning to read and there were a lot of big words in the instruction manuel. So I went to Aunt Petunia to ask her to help me. I thought she wouldn't mind since she wanted the house to be clean and I was trying to vacuum, like she'd told me. But she got angry with me for disturbing her, and Uncle Vernon heard me asking for help, too."

His voice trailed off, remembering how his aunt and uncle had screamed at him for being a stupid idiot who couldn't do anything right, who was always causing trouble and couldn't earn his keep, who wasn't fit to live with decent people. Uncle Vernon had slapped him a few times, too.

"What happened?" Severus asked quietly.

Harry hesitated, but finally just shook his head. He wasn't ready to talk about the Dursleys. "He didn't like it either."

Severus was very still. Then he said more softly than ever. "I love you, and I want to help you. Always."

Harry gave him a shy smile. "Thank you."

He started to gather up the papers, saying, "I'll go put these away."

But Severus simply moved them to the side. "Let's just put them over here and we can play some chess before bed."

Harry nodded and leaned against him for a moment. "That would be fun."

So Severus summoned the chess board and they played a long and intense match well into the night. It was close to midnight before they finally called a halt.

Harry was smiling as he headed back to his room across the hall.

 
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
NYCitygurl  28435 posts
Title: Manager of SFFBC, C&G, NSWFF, and Icons
 Registered: Jul '02
51036_WH9: Narnia
Date Posted: 4/23 5:41pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 4/23
I hate Rita Skeeter silly

Great posts!! Love Severus helping Harry schedule his classes happy

 

-----signature-----
I agree with RJ tongue
Officially Idri's Muse
"Hat. We thought of authentic Native American headdress before we thought of hat."
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
Miana Kenobi  26250 posts
Title: Pacific RSA & NSWFF Mod
On Limited Time
 Registered: Apr '00
51380_WH354: The Grinch
Date Posted: 4/23 9:32pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 4/23
Hehehe, oh Rita. How I've missed thee.


Nicely done! grin

 

-----signature-----
President of San Diego FanForce
He tini nga whetu e ngaro I te kapua iti.
Dyslexics of the world, UNTIE!
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
jedimasterjsa  135 posts
Registered: Jan '08
45275_Ferus Olin
Date Posted: 4/24 8:10am Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 4/23
Phew! Glad that part is out of the way now! Stupid Rita Skeeter woman, she's always looking to stir up trouble! angry I'm glad Harry was brave enough to go to Severus and ask for help, and I'm really glad Severus dropped everything like that to help Harry. I think Harry needs to keep seeing what it's like being loved in little situations like that. It'll help him realize what living and loving is really about.
Great job as always Kriztin!

 

-----signature-----
Pencil Busters, Inc. Co-Founder
PBI Forum Admin
http://www.pencilbusters.com
http://forum.pencilbusters.com
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
Tatooine_Ghost  1770 posts
Registered: Jul '06
7452_Luke Skywalker
Date Posted: 4/26 5:04pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 4/23
wow. loved it. can not wait for the next part of the story.

 

-----signature-----
And the psychological benefits of driving a battleship
up the Tigris and parking it in the middle of Baghdad
has got to be useful.-Jello
WJFC means never having to say you're sorry.
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
Zenni  55 posts
Registered: Mar '09
19249_20-Sided Die
Date Posted: 4/27 1:07pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 4/23
Hey, I'm only on page 2 currently, but am totally engrossed in this story! Great job so far! You had me up til' 1:30 in the morning reading on a Sunday night lol.
You've really captured the essence of the Potter World!
Kudos!
(Snape Rocks!)

 

-----signature-----
Remember, the Dark Side has cookies, but the Light Side lets you choose your very own saber color!
Padawan to path-seeker. =D And d*** proud of it!
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
princess_of_naboo  2036 posts
Registered: Nov '00
20242_Padme
Date Posted: 4/28 10:30pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 4/23
Whew, I just did a marathon read of the entire fic tonight. I'd love it if you'd send me a PM when you update.

 

-----signature-----
Reports from the Corellian Conflict - updated 11/22
http://boards.theforce.net/beyond_the_saga/b10477/24309725
Princess of Naboo's Drabbles - Wk 7: Han; Wk 8: Tenel Ka
http://boards.theforce.net/beyond_the_saga/b10477/244319
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
Kriztin  76 posts
Registered: Jan '09
Date Posted: 5/1 5:49pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 4/23
NYCitygurl: Thank you! I despise Rita Skeeter, too. She seems to be universally disliked, doesn't she? Though perhaps not as much as Umbridge.

Miana Kenobi: Thank you so much!

jedimasterjsa: Thank you! >>>I think Harry needs to keep seeing what its like being loved in little situations like that. It'll help him realize what living and loving is really about.

Yes, absolutely!

Tatooine_Ghost: Thank you!

Zenni: Thank you! I'm happy you're enjoying the story so far. Hope you've gotten caught up on your sleep! >>>You've really captured the essence of the Potter World!

That means a lot to me! Thanks again.

princess_of_naboo: Thank you! I'll be happy to.



Here's chapter 30. I hope you'll enjoy it!

Chapter 30

The Weasleys were, of course, thrilled at the idea of going to Diagon Alley together. So the Saturday following the press conference Harry and Severus left for London immediately after breakfast.

They had planned to meet at the Leaky Cauldron, but the Weasleys had not yet arrived when Harry and Severus stepped out of the fireplace into the rather dark and shabby pub. It reminded Harry of the momentous morning just over three weeks ago when they had come here for his birthday. But this time they weren't disguised by polyjuice. Harry was a little nervous, wondering how people would react to him. He hoped that everyone would just treat him normally and leave him pretty much alone, but he had a feeling that he'd receive at least a little attention.

Sure enough, once customers inside the bar recognised him, they had to come over to shake hands and speak with him. Fortunately, at this early hour, there weren't many people there, but there was an elderly woman and a young couple with several small children, as well as old Tom, the bartender.

"And to think, ye came right through here that morning an' I never knew," he remarked, almost as if he were scolding them.

Harry smiled. "I wanted to say hello, but at that time it wasn't very safe for Severus or me to be out, so we had to use the polyjuice."

"Oh, a'course, a'course." Tom went back to his work, shaking his head slightly and still muttering, "an' I never knew..."

To Harry's embarrassment, the elderly woman insisted on thanking him profusely for ridding the world of Voldemort, while the young mother kept telling the children, "This is Harry Potter." in an awed tone and the father asked if Harry would pose for a photograph with them.

"Um..., I guess so." Harry was embarrassed, but he thought it would be awfully rude to refuse. A photograph was a little thing and it seemed to mean a lot to them. So he waited patiently while the mother urged the youngsters to stand beside him...the littlest girl was hardly more than a baby and she didn't seem at all inclined to leave her mother's side to stand with a strange boy...and the father pulled a tiny camera from his pocket, enlarged it, and began clicking away.

Just when Harry was beginning to wonder how many pictures he planned to take, Severus stepped forward and spoke smoothly.

"It's been a pleasure, but Mr. Potter and I must be..."

"Oh, you're Professor Snape from Hogwarts." The father exclaimed. "I went to school in Australia, but you taught my younger brother...Tad O'Neill, Hufflepuff...do you remember him? He said you were quite the martinet, actually." He chuckled, seemingly oblivious to Severus' cool stare. "Well, since you're with Mr. Potter, how about a picture of the two of you together?"

"I think not," Severus began, but the man was already snapping another photograph before he could finish.

Severus gave him a decidedly fierce look. "If you'll excuse us, we do have plans."

His tone of voice left no room for argument and the little crowd faded away, leaving Harry and the professor alone.

"Well, it appears that people might not allow you peace and quiet," Severus said quietly. "Are you all right, Harry? Do you want to stay?"

Harry looked into his concerned face and it struck him again how much things had changed between them. At one time, not so very long ago, Severus would have believed that Harry basked in his fame, that he was a spoiled, attention-seeking prat.

But now he understood.

Harry smiled at him as he considered. He really didn't like the attention, but the people had been nice about it and he did want to see the Weasleys and Hermione again.

So he nodded and said, "Yeah, I want to stay. It's all right."

The Weasley family chose that moment to begin arriving, tumbling from the fireplace one after another, first Mrs. Weasley, then Ginny, then Mr. Weasley, and finally Ron with Hermione in tow.

Mrs. Weasley rushed right over and hugged Harry close, then stepped back to gaze at him searchingly. "Harry, dear, are you all right?"

Harry wasn't sure how to answer her. He still felt almost overwhelmed with sadness sometimes...because of the slavery spell, because he missed his parents and Sirius, because it was his fault that Sirius had died. Then there were times when he felt a bit better, mainly when he was with Severus and felt loved and wanted, though that sounded so corny he knew he could never say it aloud. He wasn't sure that he was all right, exactly, but he supposed he was better than he had been earlier in the summer.

Then, even though it was ridiculous, he felt almost disturbed at that thought, almost as if he didn't want to be better. But how could he ever accept being a slave? And if he felt better, wasn't that like accepting it?

And more, how could he even think of being happy when Sirius was dead? Because he still missed his godfather, terribly, so much that he could scarcely bear to even think about him.

It was all so confusing, but he couldn't tell Mrs. Weasley any of it. She was already starting to look anxious, so Harry hurried to reassure her. "Yes, thank you, Mrs. Weasley. I'm fine now."

She continued to study him closely, as if she weren't convinced by his answer. But then Ron, Hermione, and Ginny rushed over and surrounded him and she let it go.

The girls hugged him, and he and Ron sort of clapped each other on the back. Then Mr. Weasley came over to rest a hand on his shoulder. He didn't ask how Harry was doing, but just commented that they were all so happy that he had survived the confrontation with Voldemort and was out of the hospital.

"Thank you, sir," Harry said quietly.

"If there is anything that we can do to help, anything at all, you know you can count on us," Mr. Weasley told him, but before Harry could do more than swallow hard and nod, he had turned away. "Severus, it's good to see you again, too."

The adults shook hands and exchanged pleasantries, the Weasley parents exuberant as always, and Severus polite, but obviously reserved and distant.

Harry watched them for a few seconds, then turned back to his friends.

"Are your parents going to come, Hermione?" he asked. Sometimes the Grangers accompanied their daughter and sometimes they didn't.

Hermione shook her head. "No, they wanted to, but one of Dad's patients called this morning with an abcessed tooth and was in a lot of pain, so he had to go in to work, and Mum's come down with a terrible head cold and didn't feel up to it. So I just came with Ron and Ginny."

They chatted for a couple more minutes and then Mrs. Weasley remarked that as they had a lot to do, they'd best be on their way. So they trooped out of the Leaky Cauldron, squinting as they left the dimly-lit interior and moved into bright sunshine.

Diagon Alley was more crowded today than it had been on July 31st. People milled about along the cobblestone street, bustled in and out of shops, and lingered around the café tables, sipping coffee and nibbling on croissants. Some of them noticed Harry and he received more than a few curious stares, but being part of a group seemed to help discourage people from making any overt moves towards him.

Harry was surprised at how much reconstruction and repair work had been accomplished in the three weeks since Voldemort's attack. Some of the shops were closed and were still visibly damaged, but most of the buildings looked the same as always and were open for business. He supposed that type of work could be done much more quickly with magic.

As they discovered, though, just because the stores were open, it didn't mean that everything was the same. Many shops had lost part or all of their goods in the battle and there were lots of shortages. Flourish and Blotts, for example, had been set on fire and had lost quite a few textbooks, including most of the ones Ginny needed.

"What am I going to do?" She demanded, looking from her parents to the manager.

"The new textbooks should arrive by October," the manager tried to reassure them.

"But it's my OWL year. I can't wait until October for books. I'll be hopelessly behind." Ginny was looking more and more unhappy.

"It's all right, Gin," Hermione said. "I've still got all my old books. You can use mine."

Ginny looked relieved as her mother smiled at Hermione and remarked, "That's so kind of you, dear." Then Mrs. Weasley turned to Ron, and added rather crossly, "It's lucky that some people take care of their books, isn't it, Ron?"

Ron just gave her a surprised, innocent look in return.

Ironically the sixth-year texts were completely intact.

"Good thing," Ron muttered to Harry. "Hermione would've had a heart attack."

They weren't so fortunate in some of the other stores. Scribbulus Everchanging Inks was all out of parchment and quills, and the apothecary lacked many of the ingredients needed for the students' potions kits. Hermione was indeed beginning to look upset when Severus, who had been rather quiet so far, spoke up.

"There's no cause for panic, Miss Granger. Many of the shops in Hogsmeade carry these same materials and I know the headmaster is aware of the shortages in Diagon Alley. He's already placed orders with the Hogsmeade stores so we can have most of the necessary materials at the school for students who haven't been able to purchase everything."

Hermione actually smiled at him. "Oh, that's wonderful."

From the apothecary they headed to Madame Malkin's. Ron and Ginny had both grown since the previous year and needed new robes. It was the first time since Harry had met the Weasleys that they were able to buy new robes instead having to make do with hand-me-downs, and even though he hadn't really noticed it before, it suddenly struck him that both of the younger Weasleys were dressed a bit nicer than they typically were.

Ginny was dressed similarly to Hermione in patterned calf-length trousers, a bright shirt with ruffly sleeves and with beads and sequins around the neckline, and matching sandals. Like Harry, Ron wore jeans, but he too had on a nice polo shirt with the small golden ‘Gladrags' crest on the left shoulder.

And now that Harry was paying attention, the Weasley parents looked nice, too. They both wore wizarding robes, but new and smart-looking ones rather than the threadbare clothes Harry was used to seeing them in, and Mrs. Weasley had a new hat perched on her head.

He didn't want to just come out and ask...that seemed rather rude, even as close as they were...but Harry did wonder about the change. He'd always felt vaguely guilty about having so much money of his own while his best friends had so little. Personally, Harry didn't give a fig how much gold they had. He knew what the important things in life were, and the Weasleys were rich in all the ways that really mattered. Before this summer, before he and Severus had grown close, there had been many times when Harry had thought that he would have gladly given up his vault of Galleons in exchange for a loving family of his own.

But he knew that in the past Ron at least had been self-conscious about having less money then either of his best friends, and though Mr. and Mrs. Weasley didn't often mention finances, Harry had noticed before that they sometimes looked worried when the family was making the annual pilgrimage for school supplies.

It reminded him of how he'd planned to leave his gold to them when he'd still been planning to kill himself. Actually there had been times even before that when he'd wondered if he ought to offer to share his wealth with them. He would have been glad to, but he had been afraid of offending them and besides, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley would have refused, he'd always known that.

As it turned out, Ron himself brought up the topic of money a little while later. They finished purchasing all the necessary items just before lunch, or all the items that could be found on Diagon Alley, at least, and Ginny suggested that maybe the teens could eat and walk around on their own for a little while before they left. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley agreed at once, telling them to meet in a couple of hours at Fred and George's joke shop.

Harry looked over at Severus uncertainly. It would be fun to have time alone with his friends, but he knew the professor wasn't very comfortable around the Weasleys, or with anyone that he didn't know well, really, and Harry didn't want to abandon him.

But Severus nodded at him and asked. "Do you have enough money with you for lunch, Harry?"

Harry smiled his gratitude. "Yes, thanks. See you in a couple hours then, Severus."

They parted ways and Harry and his friends headed for the nearest café. They got in line to order sandwiches, chips, and sodas, and ate outside at one of the tables on the crowded patio. When it was time to pay, Ron leaned over and said, "I'll treat today, guys."

"I've got enough..." Harry began.

Ron shook his head. "You've bought our sweets on the Hogwarts Express every year, Harry. I'll get it this time." He lowered his voice and added. "It's all right. Things are better money-wise now. It's easier now that it's just Ginny and me still at home, and besides that, Fred and George are doing really well with their shop. They've insisted on sharing some of the money with Mum and Dad, too. I mean, Mum and Dad didn't want to take it at first, but Fred and George insisted, said we're all family and it was only right, and I think Mum and Dad finally gave in."

"Well, that's good then," Harry said, feeling happy for Ron's sake and glad that he didn't have to feel guilty about being alive and not leaving his gold for the Weasleys.

But Ron just shrugged, "Yeah, but it's not the most important thing. I finally figured that out, I guess. Not that I mind having more money or anything," he grinned.

So Ron paid their waiter and then they wandered up and down Diagon Alley. They saw Dean Thomas and Seamus Finnegan walking with the Patil twins and stopped to speak for a few minutes, asking one another about their holidays. Dean, Seamus, and the Patils wanted to know more about how he had defeated Voldemort so Harry repeated the tale for them.

"And you've had to spend the whole summer with Snape?" Seamus exclaimed, looking horrified, after they'd all expressed their relief at Voldemort's demise.

Harry frowned. "It's been all right. He's really different now."

They didn't look convinced.

"But I don't understand why you still have to stay there now. Voldemort's dead," Parvati said.

"Well, you read how Bellatrix Lestrange cast that curse on me right afterwards? I'm still not completely over it. It can cause internal bleeding and I have to take these potions every night to prevent that. Severus said sometimes the potions can cause a reaction, too, for a while after you take them so he has to put these monitoring spells on me and I have to stay close by. I'll probably have to live with him even after school starts," Harry told them. He hated to lie, but in this case there just wasn't any choice. He'd hate for them to know the truth even more.

But he felt even guiltier when he saw how concerned they were.

"Merlin, Harry, are you all right?" Dean asked. "The papers said you were out of St. Mungo's so we all thought you were fine now, but that sounds really serious."

"Oh, yeah, I'm all right as long as I take the potions," Harry muttered.

"How long do you have to take them? For the rest of your life?" Padma Patil wanted to know.

"Can't they find some cure? The Healers at St. Mungo's are supposed to be some of the best in Europe," Seamus said.

Parvati added. "Harry, you saved us from Voldemort! They ought to send you to the best specialists in the world."

Harry was growing more and more uncomfortable and the last thing he needed was for rumours over his supposed illness to start spreading. The Ministry probably would insist on sending all kinds of Healers to examine him.

He spoke up quickly, "Really, I'm all right. Dumbledore and Severus are working on finding a way to counter-act the curse, and in the meantime I'm fine. I just have to drink a couple potions at night and stay close to Severus. But he said if they do cause a reaction, there's a simple anti-dote. So I'm fine, really."

"That's a shame that you're not going to be staying with us in the Tower, though," Seamus said. "Hope Dumbledore can find a cure quickly."

Me, too, Harry thought, but even as he thought it, he realised that while he desperately wanted to be free from the slavery curse, he wasn't upset about living with Severus. Not anymore. Oh, he knew there would be times when he missed being in Gryffindor Tower, but having a real family of his own was more than worth that sacrifice. Besides, it wasn't as if he'd never get to see his friends. They hadn't talked about it, but Harry was certain that Severus would let him visit often.

"Have you been able to find all your supplies? We've had some trouble." Hermione changed the subject and Harry flashed her a grateful look.

After a few more moments of small talk, Dean, Seamus, and the Patil girls moved on and Harry and his friends continued on their way.

"Harry? Would it bother you if we went to see the spot where, you know, it all happened?" Ron asked. "I'd kind of like to see where Voldemort died."

He shook his head. "No, that's fine. Come on, it's this way."

But they couldn't get that close to the actual spot after all. It was cordoned off and a nearby sign proclaimed that the Ministry was planning to build a monument to honour Harry at the site.

"Wow, Harry, you'll have your own statue," Ron joked, elbowing his friend in the side.

Harry couldn't decide whether to laugh or be annoyed. "I don't want my own statue. I can't believe this. They might have at least mentioned it to me. And if they want to honour anyone, it ought to be my mum."

"Well, there is that statue of your mum, of your whole family, in Godric's Hollow," Hermione remarked casually, and then looked surprised when Harry turned to her with a fierce eagerness.

"There is? I never knew that! Why didn't you ever tell me, Hermione?"

She looked flustered. "I guess it just didn't occur to me that you didn't know. But I suppose I should have realised. I'm sorry, Harry."

"That's all right. But I just can't believe I never knew that." Harry was surprised to find a lump in his throat. He wasn't even sure why he was so affected. The other three were quiet, as if sensing his sudden sorrow.

But Harry didn't have time to dwell on it because just then a short little old man with a pointed beard came over to ask for his autograph and he was followed by several children too young for Hogwarts who could barely stammer out their requests between blushing and giggling. Apparently people were braver about coming up to him at the actual site where he'd won their victory.

Harry signed their papers and tried to be polite, though he still found it disconcerting that people actually wanted his signature, but he was relieved when after a few minutes, Ginny made a show of looking at her watch and exclaiming that it was time to leave.

"Thank," he told her fervently as they took off down the street towards Fred and George's shop.

"Well, it is actually time to meet Mum and Dad...and Professor Snape, but you looked like you really wanted out of there, too," she replied.

"I did. I hate all that attention. It's embarrassing," Harry said.

"People mean well. They're just grateful to you," Hermione told him.

Harry sighed. "I know, and I don't mean to be rude about it, but it really does embarrass me, and it makes me stand out when I just want to be normal."

"Well, it'll die down," Ron reassured him. He shook his head. "You know, I still can't believe that you did it, Harry, and that Voldemort's really dead. I can't believe we weren't with you."

"Yeah, sometimes I can't believe it's over, either," Harry said. He glanced sideways at his friends. "And I know you would have been with me, if you'd known. You're the best friends anyone could ever have."

They all smiled at one another and finished the walk in silence.

A great flashing sign proclaimed WEASLEYS' WIZARD WHEEZES above the doorway of Fred and George's shop. ("No one could miss that, for sure," Ron muttered as it came into view). The store windows were filled with a variety of spinning, beeping, and exploding items, and inside customers were crammed so tightly that it was hard to walk about.

Nonetheless, George spotted them as soon as they came in and he wended his way over to them with surprising speed.

"Harry, how are you doing?"

Harry nodded. "I'm fine. How about you?" He couldn't forget the way George had looked the last time he'd seen him, lying pale, unconscious, and bleeding from the loss of his ear.

George grinned. "Right as rain now, thanks to you." He paused and grew serious for one of the few times in his life. "Really, Harry, I think you saved my life when you came to help Fred that day. He was outnumbered and once I was down, it would have been just a matter of time. Actually, you probably saved both our lives cause Fred wouldn't have left me. We owe you, Harry."

But Harry shook his head fiercely. "You don't owe me anything, George. You and Fred would have done the same for me, wouldn't you?"

George considered, then grinned and grabbed Harry's hand in a firm grasp. "Yeah, you're one of us, so you're family and family doesn't owe each other."

"Hmm, that's not what you tell me," Ron pretended to grumble. Without bothering to look at him, George mildly sideswiped his younger brother's head. "That's because Harry's our favourite." He gestured around at the shop. "I've got to get back to work, but take a look around."

"We're supposed to be meeting the adults here," Ginny commented.

"Oh, yeah. Well, they're over there." George waved his hand to their right and then hurried off to speak with some girls who were exclaiming over the pygmy puffs.

Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were looking about the shop, beaming with pride, while Severus was reading the instructions from a bottle of a daydreaming potion. Ron, Ginny, and Hermione went to join the Weasley parents while Harry moved closer to Severus.

He looked up at Harry's approach and remarked, "This is a rather brilliant little concoction, I must admit. It's a shame those two never applied themselves in potions class."

Harry glanced around at the crowded shop. "They seem to be doing pretty well, anyway."

Severus arched an eyebrow. "Oh, yes, their Skiving Snackboxes are a great gift to the world."

Harry had to grin. "They sure are. We drove Umbridge crazy with them last year."

"Perhaps they do have some redeeming value," the professor responded in a dry tone. "Odd, no one ever used them in my class."

"Well, we weren't suicidal," Harry automatically replied. Then he realised what he'd just said and froze.

A strange expression flickered across Severus' face and then he stepped close, placed a hand on Harry's shoulder, and spoke in a very quiet, gentle tone, "I certainly hope that no one is right now, either."

Harry bit his lip and stared at the floor. "No one is," he mumbled.

Severus continued softly, "And if someone ever should happen to feel that way again..."

"He knows to come and talk with you." Harry whispered, forcing himself to look up and meet Severus' concerned gaze.

Severus just nodded, but he squeezed Harry's shoulder gently.

The twins had a fireplace connected to the Floo network in a back room so they all headed there to say their good-byes and to return to their respective homes. It was tea time when Harry and Severus arrived back at Prince Hall and the elves had a tray with meat pies and scones waiting when they stepped from the fireplace in the professor's sitting room. They settled side by side on the sofa and Harry placed some food on their plates while Severus poured tea.

"Did you have fun with your friends?" The professor asked after a moment.

"Yes." Harry set his cup of tea down and leaned against him. "Thank you for going with the Weasleys. I know you didn't really want to."

"It made you happy," Severus answered simply.

Harry was quiet. He hoped that over time Severus could learn to like the Weasleys, but even right now, when the professor wasn't really enamored of them, he'd been willing to spend the day with Harry's friends just to make him happy. Severus really did love him. Harry knew that he did. He'd said so several times since the day Harry had come so close to dying, and he was so gentle and kind now, to Harry at least.

And Harry loved him, too. He'd said it that one time, but he realised that he hadn't since. Well, he could change that, though.

He looked up and said softly, "I love you, Severus."

The professor's black eyes glimmered. Then he set his own plate and cup aside and wrapped his arms around Harry, enfolding him in a long, warm embrace. Harry wasn't entirely sure, but he thought Severus had to swallow a couple of times before he could reply.

"And I love you, child."

Harry leaned against him, and for a little while, he let himself forget his sorrow and grief, and just enjoy the fact that he finally had a home and someone who loved him.

Just for a little while.

Chapter End Notes:
Thanks for reading! Please review!

 
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
Miana Kenobi  26250 posts
Title: Pacific RSA & NSWFF Mod
On Limited Time
 Registered: Apr '00
51380_WH354: The Grinch
Date Posted: 5/1 6:46pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 5/1
Nicely done! grin

 

-----signature-----
President of San Diego FanForce
He tini nga whetu e ngaro I te kapua iti.
Dyslexics of the world, UNTIE!
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
princess_of_naboo  2036 posts
Registered: Nov '00
20242_Padme
Date Posted: 5/1 9:34pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 5/1
Thanks for the PM!

 

-----signature-----
Reports from the Corellian Conflict - updated 11/22
http://boards.theforce.net/beyond_the_saga/b10477/24309725
Princess of Naboo's Drabbles - Wk 7: Han; Wk 8: Tenel Ka
http://boards.theforce.net/beyond_the_saga/b10477/244319
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
Tatooine_Ghost  1770 posts
Registered: Jul '06
7452_Luke Skywalker
Date Posted: 5/3 8:21pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 5/1
wow. loved it. can not wait for the next part of the story.

 

-----signature-----
And the psychological benefits of driving a battleship
up the Tigris and parking it in the middle of Baghdad
has got to be useful.-Jello
WJFC means never having to say you're sorry.
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
jedimasterjsa  135 posts
Registered: Jan '08
45275_Ferus Olin
Date Posted: 5/4 8:59am Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 5/1
Wonderfully done! I liked how even after Harry's public request that people leave him alone, they can't quit do it. They do seem to show a little more respect, but still somehow feel that "surely I can talk to him, his request doesn't apply to me, why can't everyone else just leave him alone?" wink
It's nice to have some more of the Weasleys in the story now that Harry and Severus are kind of settling down.
I hope they do find a way to reverse the slavery spell. Harry is just starting to find some happiness. He doesn't deserve to have it tainted by such a dark thing in his life.
Great chapter! Hope everything's well in your life (so you will be able to post more of this story wink whistling )!

 

-----signature-----
Pencil Busters, Inc. Co-Founder
PBI Forum Admin
http://www.pencilbusters.com
http://forum.pencilbusters.com
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
NYCitygurl  28435 posts
Title: Manager of SFFBC, C&G, NSWFF, and Icons
 Registered: Jul '02
51036_WH9: Narnia
Date Posted: 5/4 2:54pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 5/1
Cute!! Love the kids together and ultra-love George grin

 

-----signature-----
I agree with RJ tongue
Officially Idri's Muse
"Hat. We thought of authentic Native American headdress before we thought of hat."
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
Kriztin  76 posts
Registered: Jan '09
Date Posted: 5/17 12:31pm Subject: [Harry Potter] Slave Child updated 5/1
Thank you, everyone! I hope you'll enjoy these next two chapters!

Kriztin


Chapter 31

The next week flew by. Ron and Hermione came to visit Harry once more before the new school year began. The weather was nice this time so they spent much of the day outside. Harry showed them around the grounds at Prince Hall and then he and Ron, who had indeed remembered to bring his Cleansweep, practiced feints and dives from the Wronski Quidditch book.

They managed to round up an extra broom for Hermione, but she never had enjoyed flying as much as the boys. After a little while, she borrowed a novel from the library and settled down on a blanket under an oak tree to read while Ron and Harry swooped through the air above her.

Late in the afternoon, just before Ron and Hermione left, the three of them went by the library to return the book. Severus was sitting at his desk, writing on some parchment. He laid it aside as they came in and nodded at them.

"Miss Granger, Mr. Weasley."

"Good afternoon, sir," Hermione said.

Ron looked a little uncomfortable still, but he spoke politely enough. "Hello, Professor."

Severus glanced at the thick book in Hermione's hand. "Is that the same one you were reading the last time you were here, Miss Granger?"

She looked uncertain, as if worried that she'd done something wrong. "Yes, sir."

Severus seemed to have an internal struggle with himself before finally offering, "You may take it with you to finish, if you'd like. You can return it once we're all back at Hogwarts."

Hermione seemed stunned into speechlessness. She just gazed at him in amazement for a moment before slowly smiling and nodding. "Thank you, Professor Snape. I'll take good care of it."

"If I'd had any doubts about that, I wouldn't have offered," Severus responded dryly. He placed the parchment carefully in a drawer and stood. "If you're ready then, Miss Granger..."

They Apparated away to the Granger residence in London, and Ron turned to Harry. "I guess you're right, mate. He can act decent, huh. You're going to ask about riding with us on the Hogwarts Express, aren't you?"

Harry nodded. "Yes. I'll let you know, but I don't see why Severus would mind."

"Well, we'll see you at King's Cross in a few days then." Ron and Harry clasped hands before Ron Flooed home to the Burrow.

***

And then, all of a sudden, it was the last evening at Prince Hall. There were still a few days before the term began, but the professors had to return earlier than the students so Severus and Harry had to go ahead and report to the castle.

"Do you have everything packed?" Severus asked as they were eating dinner.

Harry nodded. "Yes, sir. I finished this afternoon."

"Good." Severus considered him thoughtfully. "The weather will be turning cooler soon. How large is your winter wardrobe, Harry?"

"Umm, I have a few more winter things," he replied. "I always bought myself some clothes at Diagon Alley. The only reason I never bought much stuff for summer was cause I knew I'd be back at the Dursleys by then."

Severus looked slightly puzzled. "Why wouldn't you need summer clothes while staying with your relatives?"

Harry looked down at his plate, piled high with a serving of chicken casserole and vegetables, and mumbled. "I always wore Dudley's castoffs then."

"Hmm." Severus arched an eyebrow, seeming to consider the mental picture of Harry, who had always been small for his age, and Dudley Dursley, who had always been large for his, wearing the same clothes. He didn't comment directly on it though, to Harry's relief.

Relief that was short-lived, as it turned out, since Severus' next words were, "It has not escaped my notice that we have yet to discuss your relatives and the ways they mistreated you, Harry. We do need to talk about it, I think, and decide how they should be punished."

Harry was already shaking his head. "No, Severus, please..."

The professor sighed and reached for his hand, holding it gently between his own. "I understand that it is a difficult topic, but I think it might help you to talk about it, and I assure you that I can empathise."

"I just want to forget about it, and them," Harry said, scarcely louder than a whisper.

Severus gave his hand a light squeeze. "Harry, if I thought that simply forgetting about it all was the best thing for you, then I wouldn't mention it again. But I can't help but feel that keeping those memories and emotions bottled up inside could be harmful to you in the long run."

Harry looked at him pleadingly. "But couldn't we talk about it another time? Please? I don't want to spoil my last night here talking about the Dursleys."

Severus considered him thoughtfully before nodding. "Very well, then. But we do need to discuss them soon, Harry."

Harry just looked down at their clasped hands in silence. After a moment, Severus spoke more briskly.

"As a matter of fact, I have something else planned for this evening."

Harry looked back up, his expression a mixture of curiousity and trepidation. "You do?"

Severus nodded. "It's all right. I think you'll enjoy it."

"What is it?" Harry asked more eagerly.

But Severus just shook his head, smiling a little. "You have to finish dinner first."

When they had eaten their fill and the elves had cleared the table, Harry glanced expectantly at Severus, but the professor just kept sitting there. After a moment, Harry understood why. Norie and Zan came back from the kitchen, levitating an enormous chocolate cake lit with brightly glowing candles.

Harry stared in amazement as Norie set the cake before him with a flourish and she and Zan chorused. "Happy Birthday, Master Harry!"

"But...my birthday was a month ago, and we already celebrated," Harry said, looking from the elves to Severus in bewilderment.

"Yes, but we were not able to complete the celebration," Severus explained. "We were supposed to have cake and ice cream that evening, but then you and I ended up in St. Mungo's instead." He looked slightly embarrassed. "I realise it's a bit late, but what is the saying, ‘Better late than never'?

Harry swallowed the lump in his throat. "You didn't have to do all this," he said thickly.

Severus rolled his eyes. "Foolish child. Of course we didn't have to do it. We wanted to do it. Now, blow out the candles before the icing melts all over the antique tablecloth."

Harry turned his attention to the flaming candles. But first he had to make a wish. He started to wish for a way to be freed from the slavery spell, but then, for some reason, he glanced around at the others in the room: Severus who had given Harry his heart and allowed him to see the carefully concealed emotions hidden behind a cool façade, whose dark eyes were soft and gentle as they watched him; Norie who had a feisty spirit and a loving heart; and Zan who was always quiet and dignified, but kind and welcoming, too.

I hope we'll always be a family. The thought sprang unbidden into Harry's mind, and as much as he longed for his freedom, he knew that it was his true deepest desire. And suddenly, somehow, he felt free again, even if only for a moment.

But still...And I hope Severus and Dumbledore can find a way to free me, too.

There, that was two wishes, but surely after all the birthday wishes he'd been denied in the past, he was entitled to two now. Harry took a deep breath and for the first time in his life, blew out the candles on his birthday cake.

Of course the cake was delicious, and so was the strawberry ice cream that Zan brought to go along with it. The elves even joined them at the dining room table to eat, something they'd never done before, Severus commented.

"I'm impressed, Harry. I've been trying to get them to eat in here for seventeen years, to no avail. You've accomplished that feat in two months," the professor said dryly.

"Well, you've never had a birthday party, Master Severus," Norie retorted. "We might make an exception for that, too."

So Severus had never had a birthday party...Harry filed that information away in the back of his mind. They'd have to change that. Of course, he would need to learn the date first, though. He just hoped he hadn't already missed it.

Harry thought that his postponed birthday party was all that Severus had planned, but when they'd finally had enough cake and ice cream and the elves had Vanished the mess away and retired for the night, the professor asked him to come to the library for a few moments.

Harry curled up in an armchair while Severus went to his desk, opened a drawer, and took out a stack of parchment.

"I wanted to give this to you before we went back to Hogwarts," the professor said quietly as he came to sit in a chair beside Harry. He almost sounded a little hesitant and as Harry took the proffered scrolls, he thought Severus seemed tense.

Curiously, Harry glanced down at the papers in his hand, and then caught his breath as he read as he read the fancy script.

Certificate of Adoption

This document certifies that on the twenty-eighth of August in the Year of our Lord Nineteen Hundred Ninety-Six, Severus Tobias Snape did formally adopt one Harry James Potter, a minor child legally eligible for adoption.

From this time forth, Harry James Potter is the son of Severus Tobias Snape and is his legal heir. Harry James Potter is henceforth entitled to all rights and benefits of a child from his parents and will in every respect be considered the natural-born son of Severus Tobias Snape.

There was more, page after page describing in detail all the rights and benefits that Harry was entitled to, but those first two paragraphs said it all, as far as he was concerned. But they hadn't been to the Ministry and performed any type of ceremony. They couldn't, no matter how much Harry wanted to, because it would lead to everyone discovering the slavery spell.

He looked up at Severus, puzzled. "But how...?"

"It is not a true legal document, not in the eyes of the law at least," Severus told him. "I cannot legally adopt you without involving the Ministry. But in my heart you are already my son and I wanted to do something to acknowledge that fact. These papers may be only for us, Harry, but if we ever should go to the Ministry and perform the adoption ceremony, it would not make our relationship any more valid or real to me than it is now."

The writing on the parchment blurred as Harry's eyes filled with tears. He blinked them away fiercely and managed to say. "Or to me."

Severus paused, before saying awkwardly, "Perhaps I should have spoken with you again before giving you this, but I did think your only objection was concern over the magical contracts, and not to the adoption itself."

Harry laid the papers aside and went to him. "I've always wanted my own family. You've given it to me. Thank you, Severus."

But Severus shook his head. "Thank you, child. You've made me happier than I've ever been before in my life."

Harry felt a little awkward himself, just standing there, but Severus quickly solved that problem. The professor took his wand and expanded the chair so that they could sit together. Then he held out his arm and Harry immediately snuggled close beside him. He leaned against Severus...his father.

He had a father now, a real living father who could be with him and protect him and help him. For a moment he thought of Lily and James Potter, and Sirius and felt vague stirrings of guilt, but then he reminded himself that they couldn't be here with him, and surely they all loved him enough to want him to have someone here too. He hoped so because he loved Severus and he didn't want anything to ruin this wonderful gift, his dream that had finally come true.

It was as if Severus could read his mind because he glanced down at Harry and said softly, "I know I'm not the same as your parents or your godfather, Harry, but I do love you with all my heart, and I will do my very best for you, to help you and guide you and to make certain you have a rich, fulfilling life."

Harry smiled at him, but there was something about Severus' statement that concerned him, just a little...the way Severus seemed to feel that he was second-best, or even third-best behind Harry's parents and Sirius. That wasn't really true. Harry loved his parents and Sirius, of course, and missed them. But he loved Severus with all his heart, too. He wasn't exactly sure how to reassure the professor...no, his father...but he had to try.

"Severus," he said slowly. "I really love my parents and Sirius, and I miss them. But I love you just as much, maybe even more because I know you better than I ever knew them. I'm really, really happy that you're my father now."

Severus' face twisted and his black eyes filled with tears, but Harry only got a brief glimpse of that, because then his father was holding him close and his face was pressed to Severus' chest. But he could feel the tremors that shook Severus' body and he wrapped his own arms around his father and held him close too, gently patting Severus' back to try to comfort him.

It was a long time before they left the library and went upstairs to bed.

***

Grey clouds blew in overnight and covered the sky the next morning. A gentle but steady rain began to fall during breakfast and Harry thought that the gloomy weather was an appropriate backdrop for the mood at Prince Hall. He himself was almost surprised to discover that he had mixed feelings about returning to Hogwarts. He had always been eager for school to start before, and even at the beginning of the summer he had hated the idea of having to leave Hogwarts and go live at Prince Hall. Harry had to smile wryly at himself when he remembered how vehemently he'd vowed that Prince Hall would never be his home.

Of course everything had been different then. Now he and Severus were a family, and Prince Hall had become his home after all, the first real home he had ever had. And for the first time, Harry found himself wishing that summer didn't have to end and feeling reluctant to return to school.

He didn't think he was the only one who felt that way, either. Norie was sniffling and Zan looked unusually somber as they served the porridge and toast, and Severus seemed quiet as well. After breakfast they all went upstairs to Severus' sitting room, where his trunk and Harry's sat by the fireplace.

"We will miss you both, Master Severus, Master Harry." Zan gave them a formal little bow. It was all he said, but the sorrow in his face and voice were genuine.

Harry stepped over and shook his hand. "I'll miss you and Norie, too. Thank you, Zan, for everything."

Norie sniffled again as she came over to pat his arm. "You take care of yourself, Master Harry."

Harry knelt to hug her and she whispered in his ear. "And take care of Master Severus, too."

"I will," Harry whispered back.

The elves said a solemn farewell to Severus too, and he glanced around at them all and said, "There's no reason for everyone to look as if it were the end of the world. The Christmas holidays will come soon and we'll be back then."

"Of course, Master Severus," Norie said with an air of determined cheerfulness.

Severus cast featherlight and shrinking charms on their trunks and he and Harry picked them up easily. Harry gave the elves one last little wave, and then his father was guiding him into the fireplace.

Severus threw down some Floo powder and called, "Our quarters at Hogwarts!"

***

Harry had never seen Severus' private rooms at Hogwarts before and he looked about curiously when they stepped from the fireplace there. They entered a large parlour with pale stone walls, a couple of small mahogany tables, and a sofa and armchairs upholstered in brown and gold. A matching rug covered much of the floor. A heavy bookcase stood along one wall, and a dining alcove was carved out of another. The fireplace itself was tall and wide and took up much of its wall. It had a high carved mantel with a clock and a jar, presumably for Floo powder, set on it and a landscape painting above.

There were no windows, but the walls were adorned with several landscape portraits and a gilt-framed mirror. There were two arched doorways on opposite sides of the room. One was closed and Harry supposed it led to the outside corridor. The other was open and Harry could see through it to the bedroom beyond. A tall wardrobe and part of a spacious four-poster bed with a plaid comforter in shades of brown were visible.

After a moment Harry realised that Severus was watching him. The professor's lips quirked upwards. "Welcome to our home away from home."

"It's nice," Harry told him.

"It's a bit smaller than Prince Hall, but it's nice enough," Severus agreed.

It was noticeably cooler here and Harry shivered slightly.

Severus frowned. "Do you have a jacket, Harry?"

He nodded. "Packed in my trunk."

Severus drew his wand from his sleeve. "Well, I'll just cast a warming spell for now. It is always cool down here in the dungeons though. You'll need to unpack your jacket and long-sleeved shirts, and we might go ahead and owl-order some new winter clothes for you, too."

"I don't really need..." Harry began.

His father shook his head. "Harry, the correct response is ‘thank you.' And I know I don't have to, but I would like to buy at least a few things for you, whether you really need them or not. I want to be certain that you stay warm enough, especially since you will be prone to catching cold now. I don't want you to become ill."

Harry gave him a bemused look, but then just smiled. "Thank you."

Severus cast the warming spell and then led the way back to his bedroom where he set his trunk down in the corner and restored it to its original size.

He glanced at Harry. "Go ahead and set your trunk down here, too, while we make your room."

"Make my room?" Harry questioned.

"Well, you do need one here, don't you?" Severus began walking around his quarters, studying the space thoughtfully while Harry followed him in bewilderment.

"Hmm, we could probably have your room here, next to mine, and have your doorway open to the parlour here," Severus remarked, indicating a section of the parlour wall. He turned to Harry. "What do you think?"

"It sounds fine to me." Harry responded. "How do you make a room?"

‘With a rather complex set of spells," Severus answered. "Watch."

He began a series of long incantations and elaborate twirls and flourishes of his wand. Harry realised right away that he himself would not be ready to attempt any construction spells in the near future. But he quickly forgot to worry about following the technique anyway, he was so entranced by the sight of the room that suddenly appeared before them.

It was a spacious room, not as vast as his suite at Prince Hall, but still large. The walls were of the same light stone and Severus also conjured mahogany furniture to match the rest of their furnishings. There was a wide bed with a handsome carved headboard, a wardrobe, and a desk and chair.

Severus glanced at Harry. "How would you like it decorated? In Gryffindor colours, I presume?"

Harry shrugged. "It's all right if you want to do it in brown and gold to match the other rooms."

"It's your room, Harry. I don't care which colours you choose," Severus told him.

"Well, if you don't mind..." Harry's voice trailed off.

Severus nodded, flicked his wand, and an instant later a soft, thick scarlet comforter covered the bed, with fluffy pillows in scarlet and gold striped shams piled at the headboard. Another flick of Severus' wand and a golden rug with scarlet flour-de-lis covered the floor. Next the professor conjured a small scarlet sofa with golden cushions to sit at the foot of Harry's bed and a matching armchair in one corner. An enchanted window with golden drapes completed the room.

Severus turned to Harry. "Is this satisfactory?"

"It's brilliant," Harry whispered in awe. "Thank you."

"Well, you had to have a place to sleep. Or did you think I would simply stick you in my potions cabinet at night?" Severus said lightly.

Harry knew Severus couldn't have known about the cupboard under the stairs, but he felt as if someone had just punched him in the stomach. He quickly turned away so his father wouldn't see his face.

He wasn't quite quick enough though.

"Harry? What is it?" Severus stepped close and placed a hand on his shoulder.

Harry was quiet for a moment. But even though it was hard to say aloud, he suddenly felt that it would be all right to tell. His father deserved to know.

"That's what my aunt and uncle did," he said softly. "I mean, they didn't have a potions cabinet, of course, but they did stick me in the cupboard under the stairs. I lived there until I came to Hogwarts."

He had been staring at the floor while he spoke. Severus' hand squeezed his shoulder, but the professor didn't speak for a long time. Finally Harry had to raise his eyes and turn to see his father's reaction.

Severus actually looked ill. "Those monsters," he rasped in a pained voice.

Then he grabbed Harry and held him close in a fierce, protective embrace.

 
Post Reply | Quote Reply | Active Topic Notification | Private Message | Post History
« 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 - Previous | Next | Reload
© 2009 IGN Entertainment, Inc (9.02.17.2300, IGNPRDAPPW64214) 0.875