The happy cries and laughter quickly gave way to a certain bustle of activity in the Headmaster's office, with Flitwick already rushing for the Floo to give instructions.

"Here's a good thing done! Yes, a good thing done!" Dumbledore exclaimed joyfully as he stroked his beard in satisfaction. "We must alert the elves right away…Dobby?"

The little creature appeared straightaway with a slight pop, before throwing himself at Harry and wrapping his short arms around him. "Oh, Dobby is so happy, Harry Potter! So happy, so happy!"

"Ouch, Dobby, not so hard, please," the boy protested, laughing, surprised by the elf's strength. "You already know about it?"

"Dobby knows! All the elves know! The elves always know everything, and they're preparing the grandest party that Hogwarts has ever seen!"

Behind him, Harry distinctly heard Snape groan.

"Thanks, Dobby, that's really very nice…but don't go overboard, okay? It's just a formality."

"Formality?" the elf squeaked. "Certainly not! It's a big day, a huge day, and everyone must celebrate! Dobby's going right now to take care of it!"

Without waiting for orders from the Headmaster, he feverishly disappeared again.

"Well," Dumbledore tittered a laugh, "I assume the word has been passed."

"Harry, I'm so happy everything's finally sorted out," Remus sighed, grasping Harry by the shoulders. "Whatever I might've said in the past, know that…"

"The Boy Who Lived finally finds the peace and happiness of a home, thanks to a former Death Eater! A Ministry conspiracy dedicated to making the adoption fail, thwarted! All of Hogwarts joins forces behind the Chosen One to… Oh, Professor Snape, might I see this famous list of your supporters?"

All eyes turned to Rita Skeeter and her less vocal but just as attentive colleagues. Aided by the concealment charms and the requirement that the press be discreet, everyone had ended up forgetting they were there…until now.

"Certainly not," Severus said dryly. "I think you have enough scandalous material as it is."

"Oh, you said it," a reporter agreed with relish. "It was an absolutely astounding morning. The show was top-notch, believe me, no one was disappointed…a work of art!"

"You realize, of course, that none of this was planned, and it was a matter of circumstances and real people?" Dumbledore asked.

"Entirely, and that's what makes the story so fascinating! Imagine how the public will hold its breath… Perhaps it'd be wise to make it a series; I see five episodes, breathtaking suspense, thousands of letters. Ah, but there mustn't be any advance leaks, Professor!" the reporter said sternly.

Severus shook his head, too disgusted to object.

"Albus, I'll leave you to take care of these…formalities. The morning's been long. Allow us at least a moment to rest in peace before your little get-together."

"But of course, my boy, of course," the Headmaster quickly replied. "I'll be waiting for you in the Great Hall a half-hour from now."

"Albus!" the Potions master growled. "An hour at the very least. And no need to come looking for us if we're late; we know the way perfectly well."

"Very well, very well," Dumbledore gave in. "So, a half-hour." Then, at the professor's dark look, he corrected, "An hour. One little hour. Just enough time to prepare everything we need. Oh, and of course classes will be canceled this afternoon."

Grumbling under his breath, Snape rolled his eyes and put his hand on Harry's shoulder. "Does the schedule suit you?"

Smiling, the boy nodded. Yes, nothing suited him better than a big party to celebrate his new family, in the company of his best friends. And before that, a bit of peace and quiet in private with his new official father wouldn't be too much to expect.

But as they went down the staircase, it became evident that peace and quiet wasn't the order of the day yet. Downstairs, several people had gathered, McGonagall at the front of them, and the anxious faces peered up at them, as if waiting for an answer.

"So? So?" the Head of Gryffindor asked, clearly unable to hide her worry.

"Everything's sorted out," Snape answered. "The official papers should be delivered sometime today."

A clamor of relief rose up from the group, intermingled with laughter and cheers. McGonagall, obviously moved, patted her colleague's shoulder, while a tornado of chestnut hair swooped down on Harry, crying shrilly, "Harry! I knew it! I was sure of it!"

"Oh yeah? So why did you spend the morning biting your fingernails and yelling at everyone?" asked Ron's distinctive voice from behind Hermione, both amused and tender.

"Oh, be quiet," the girl replied. "I'm so very happy, if you only knew! When Ron came back with what he had to say, I knew that woman wanted to deny the adoption, and she wasn't going to follow the rules, so I decided to find out about the procedures, and I went down to the library, but it was still closed, so…"

A slight cough interrupted her.

"Suffice it to say that Miss Granger's help has been invaluable in this adventure," McGonagall summarized, her expression for the girl similar to Ron's. "In truth, Severus, this young student had the brilliant idea of calling for Amelia Bones to arbitrate your case. She's a remarkable woman, just remarkable, but also difficult to find. On that matter, you'll have Susan Bones to thank as well, as she sided with you and managed to contact her aunt," she added.

"Indeed, it would appear we have a great number of people to thank today," Snape said, tapping the list in his pocket. "As for you, Miss Granger, I still don't know if I should be impressed or dismayed by the sum total of intelligence and efficiency that you've once again demonstrated, but you have my entire gratitude for your diligence and loyalty. Your help was more than priceless and will certainly not be forgotten."

The girl had blushed to an interesting shade of crimson, compensating for any reticence Severus might've had over-complimenting a Gryffindor in such a manner. What was more, the gratitude-filled eyes and happy smile Harry was sending her way were worth all the compliments in the world.

"As for your performance, Mister Weasley, it was completely remarkable and noted," he added.

For an instant, the redhead didn't seem to know what to do with this information, until Harry confessed with a hollow laugh, "Yeah, we were in the room all along, hidden by a spell. It was really great, what you did. Thanks!"

The youngest Weasley boy was floored, mouth hanging open, his eyes unfocused, obviously going back over all he might've said during the interview. Severus savored the moment, watching the teenager turn redder by the second. Yes, this day was definitely full of promise.

"I, uh, I gotta go," the boy announced, refusing to meet his eyes.

"No need to panic, Mister Weasley," Snape reassured him with a slight smile. "As I said, your delivery left nothing to be desired. We won't linger on the details."

Ron's choked reply was drowned out when McGonagall interrupted.

"Am I to understand you were also present during my interview with that…woman?" she asked.

Snape nodded. "I must confess it wasn't the least of the day's surprises."

The witch sighed. "There are so many things… Oh, well, I suppose it's a good thing you heard it. Please know that I meant every word. These misunderstandings should've been cleared up long ago."

Again, the professor nodded, both skeptical and thoughtful at once. "We're going down to our rooms. We'll be back in an hour," he stated. Then, turning to Harry, who was animatedly chatting with his friends, he said, "Join me when you like."

"No, no need, I'm coming with you," he answered right away. Then, transforming into the cat, he jumped agilely to the wizard's shoulder.

"Until later, then," Minerva said, not quite managing to hide a smile. The students at her side didn't even make the effort, and some laughter erupted, as well as a few fond sighs. They even heard Madam Pomfrey blow her nose noisily as she was held up by Professor Sprout who also had tears in her eyes.

Fleeing the scene, Snape strode for the least frequented staircase to the dungeons, the cat firmly gripping his shoulder. After the emotions of the morning, the quiet of their rooms seemed a peaceful haven to Severus. With a sigh of contentment, he fell onto the settee and closed his eyes.

The cat jumped from its perch and reluctantly transformed. "I thought for a moment there that I'd never see this place again," Harry said, curling up in the cushions.

"Take off your shoes," the Potions master replied. "I'll confess that I myself felt more stressed than I expected to this morning. I think Albus himself didn't see certain events coming. For Merlin's sake, Lucius was supposed to be hidden in one of the secondary residences, waiting for the storm to pass. How could he have intervened so quickly?"

"Scrimgeour? Fudge?" Harry asked.

"No, no, it must've been someone else, someone acting more in the background, someone influential. A person who wouldn't wish you well, someone who would've had reason to want this adoption not to go through."

"Umbridge?" Harry suggested after a moment's thought.

"Precisely," Snape agreed. "I'd stake my life that the old cow's behind all this."

"But I thought she was out of the picture…you know, after what happened at the end of last year?"

"It's always the old nags who recover the quickest," Severus muttered. "I think we can count on Amelia Bones to offset her influence, but we'll have to keep an eye on that woman."

"Merlin, not now," Harry sighed, burying his head in the cushions. "I don't want to even think about it. I'm ready to drop, and much too relieved that it's all over. We deserve a break, don't we?"

Snape almost retorted that there was never a break in the struggle against the Dark Lord, but caught himself in time. No, it wasn't the right moment to spout out great truths and spoil the boy's happiness.

"Of course. Take your time, relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. I've the distinct impression this'll be our only peaceful moment of the day."

"Humph. I don't have anything against the idea of a party, but…I think I won't be going to bed too late tonight. Oh, I'm sleeping here, right?"

"That would probably be more reasonable," Severus agreed. "But soon you'll have to think of resuming your normal activities."

"Normal? Since when is my life normal?" Harry laughed. "I'll have to work a bit more on my magic, though. But I think that'll work out. I really feel like everything will go better now, don't you?" he asked with a big smile.

Snape tried to return the smile, but kept himself from answering. His own intuition was telling him that their troubles were only beginning, but once again, it was best to keep his opinion to himself. "If we survive Dumbledore's party, then we'll see," he said without adding more. But Harry was too enthusiastic to do anything but laugh again, before heading for the bathroom.

"Do you think there'll be reporters there?" he asked from his room.

"I doubt it," Severus hissed between his teeth. "Given the time of day, they must all be busy putting out a special edition. But we'll have to expect that some students will be granting special interviews."

"I know, I know. 'Our new celebrity', eh?" Harry asked before opening the tap and closing the door.

Alone in the sitting room, Snape couldn't help but flush slightly as he thought of that tirade he'd delivered to the boy on his first day at Hogwarts. Not one of his finest moments, no… Sighing, he settled comfortably into his armchair. Merlin, it wasn't even noon yet, and he already felt as worn out as after a long day.

Nothing surprising about that, though. After what had just happened, the nervous tension and especially… How in the devil had Harry managed that stunt? Compelling him to Apparate, here within Hogwarts, and even without consciously wishing it! He felt gooseflesh rise up on his arms. How was this even possible? He had to talk to Dumbledore about it; the old fool had always defended the notion that white magic was as powerful as dark, but Severus had never been convinced. And despite what he'd told Harry to reassure him, the powers he'd stolen from Voldemort couldn't be considered as neutral magic.

Merlin, just to think of the amount of power the boy must've developed to produce such an effect—he was almost sickened by it. When was Harry going to realize what had happened? Probably never, considering he hadn't seemed to find the event that unbelievable. But the next time something like that were to happen, he'd be forced to understand, and Snape didn't have the least desire to know what would happen when his new son understood the power he had over his father.

Rubbing at his painful Mark, he reached out for the glass of whiskey he'd poured for himself. He'd been too negligent about the boy's lessons. They had to start up again right away—test his limits, and especially teach Harry to have unfailing control over his actions.

And in a certain way, he thought this last point was going to present more difficulty than all the others.

To think he'd only been trying to heal an abandoned cat…

In the next room, the sound of the shower stopped, and a few minutes later Harry came out, dressed in fresh clothes.

"I hadn't realized I was so tense," the boy admitted as he fell into a chair. "Do you think I could have a lie-in tomorrow morning? Dumbledore…"

"…would certainly be happy to grant you a week of holiday, but it's out of the question. We have work that's overdue. You must be able to resume your classes as soon as possible, and we're going to step up your private lessons. You'll be going to bed earlier tonight."

"Oh, I wasn't thinking of coming in late, but the Gryffindors are planning a party; at least I think that's what the others were trying to tell me in the corridor," Harry objected.

"Lights out at ten. You'll have the entire afternoon to celebrate the event, with the total lack of dignity befitting your House."

"Speaking of Houses, aren't you afraid the Slytherins are taking this badly? It's not exactly like they were happy, me being your cat, so…"

"So?" Snape asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Well, so far as being your, uh, son, that really won't help things, will it?"

Severus smiled thinly. "Theyll' have to deal with it. The notion certainly won't make them as happy as the Gryffindors, but they're not any worse than your housemates, Harry. Perhaps you'll need to re-examine how your see my House to make them change their minds. We generally have different ways of doing things, a different viewpoint on things. Besides, Slytherin wasn't just Voldemort's House, I hope you realize that."

"I know," Harry agreed. "Well, I think I know. Don't be cross, but the first thing I learnt about Hogwarts was that Slytherin only put out bad wizards. Anyway, that's what Ron told me."

"If that were the case, do you think that House would still exist?" Snape said, clearly irritated. "If every person assigned to Slytherin had to become a Death Eater, and all the Gryffindors, Aurors, the world would certainly be a simpler place. It would suffice to send all the Slytherins to Azkaban straightaway, and the war would be moot."

"Prejudices die hard," Harry murmured. "Up until last year, I really didn't have a reason to think otherwise, that being said. You were the only professor who hated me, and then Malfoy…"

"Draco proved his courage today, I hope you realize."

"Courage? That's a joke," the boy hissed. "He was just trying to save his skin, even if it meant turning his back on his family."

"Of course," Severus said dryly. "Draco could only have bad motives. He could only be trying to find the most deceitful way of saving himself, not saving his soul. That's surely why, by the way, he prevented Loki from killing you."

"He's the one who brought him in to start with!" Harry protested. "And you heard him say it just like I did—with the Veritaserum."

"Everything isn't black and white, Harry," Snape sighed. "I'm asking you to be more open and patient with Draco. He took a big step forward today, and whatever you might think of him, he's fond of his family. The times ahead are going to be difficult; he'll need all of our support."

"I'll try," the boy grumbled. "After all, maybe there is a solution," he said thoughtfully.

"Which?" Severus asked warily.

"You're a Slytherin, and Houses are generally something that get passed down in families, like for the Weasleys. So maybe I could ask to be made an honorary Slytherin? A sort of House adoption, if you will!"

The Potions master, who had been trying to hide his scorn behind his glass, literally choked on his mouthful of whiskey, his eyes bulging. "Of…what…for pity's sake, where did you get such an idea?" he cried.

"What, you don't think it's great?" Harry enthused, seeming at his most innocent. "Honestly, it'd be a good way to develop inter-House relations."

"And are you suggesting that this exchange program include Draco Malfoy as well, in the interests of rehabilitation? I'm certain he'd be happy to explore the Gryffindor common room," Snape retorted.

"Merlin help us," Harry said, his face darkening. "I'd rather die than see that ferret park his precious arse in one of our chairs."

"I think that's exactly my students' opinion, concerning yourself," Snape pointed out. "Don't push things too far, Harry. This isn't the right time."

"I suppose," the boy conceded. "But I'm curious to see if they'll come to the party."

"I doubt they'll have a choice," Severus sighed. "And we won't either, if we put off going up any longer. Ready?"

"Yeah. Is this all right?" Harry asked, gesturing to his clothes, his usual class robes.

"I would've opted for something more formal, but it's your choice," Severus answered.

"No, really, you'd better tell me, I don't know anything about clothes…uh, the robe I wore to the Triwizard Tournament Ball? I think it's still fits me."

"That one would be too formal. I seem to recall we chose you some finer cut robes at Madam Malkin's. Now's the chance to try them. And pick out a white shirt instead for this sort of occasion."

"Are those your own personal tastes, or the wizarding world dress code?" Harry asked worriedly.

Snape rolled his eyes. "If I were to advise you per my own personal tastes, you'd be dressed in head-to-toe black, and we wouldn't be talking about fashion. Hurry up, will you, I don't want Albus coming down to escort us by the hand to the lions' den," he said with disdain.

"Okay, okay," the boy said as he went for his room. "But I didn't ask for no reason. If you don't want to be ashamed of me at public appearances, I'm going to need some lessons about this too. Before I came to Hogwarts, I only wore Dudley's old clothes, and so naturally, being presentable wasn't an option. And since Hogwarts, well, I thought school robes were enough, but someone told me that wasn't the case," he finished as he came out of his room again, wearing his new set of robes.

"That someone was truly very wise," Snape said sarcastically. "And that someone might've also told you that a tie knot isn't supposed to look like one for tethering up a hippogriff."

"What? Ron made this knot for me, it was rather well-done," Harry protested, then, squinting as he looked at him, he said, "Hmm. I suppose I've re-used it too many times."

With a sigh, Severus came to his rescue. "So, Mister Weasley wasn't up to teaching you how to make one yourself?"

"He tried, but I never really caught on. Ron does it over for me every once in a while. Works out well that way."

"Follow my movements," Severus said, detaching the tie and smoothing it out with a spell. "In this way, then up and over…like that. Do it again."

"Hmm, I know, like the movements of a snake going under the trunk and…" Harry began as he tried to reproduce the motions.

"A snake, hmm?" Severus said, raising an amused eyebrow. "I don't know that version, but if it helps you to memorize it, I certainly have no objection."

"Ha, very funny," the boy grumbled as he finished his knot. The Potions master readjusted it one last time before automatically running a hand through the boy's tousled hair.

"I suppose it'd be senseless to try and do something with your hair."

"It's my trademark," Harry smiled. "Thanks for the knot."

"Hmmm, try to remember how to do it. I don't ever want to see you go to class with a…prefabricated tie."

It was Harry's turn to roll his eyes. "Yes, sir." Then he frowned. "And you—who taught you how to tie a tie?"

He sensed Severus stiffen. "Lucius Malfoy. Ready now?"

Harry nodded, feeling a slight knot forming in the pit of his stomach.

"If you feel uncomfortable, just signal to me and we'll come back down," Snape said, his voice softer. "This party is definitely not a requirement."

"No, it'll be fine. I just hope they don't overdo it."

"Abandon all hope there," Snape murmured, opening the door. "Try to behave. I don't want to see a reenactment of what we were treated to in the Headmaster's office, when you decided to convene a trial over Lupin's paternity."

"Oh, Merlin," the boy moaned. "That's going to stick with me for a long time, isn't it?"

"I'll be delighted to tell your children about it," Snape said, a bit too enthusiastically for Harry's taste.

As the professor had predicted, all hopes of the party being kept within reasonable bounds were obliterated when they stepped into the Great Hall. A friendly but deafening din greeted them, and they were quickly surrounded by a swarm of people pressing in to congratulate them, shake their hands, or, in Harry's case, hug him. For an instant, the boy regretted lacking the aura of hostility that protected his father from all these outpourings of affection; he was dragged along after Snape to the center of the room.

Blinking, he realized the tables had been rearranged for the occasion: the High Table brought down from its platform, placed in the middle of the room and surrounded by the four House tables.

Contrary to what he'd feared, the Slytherin table was full, even though their faces were distinctly less joyful than those of the other students. The Hufflepuffs, surprisingly, seemed to be the most enthusiastic, cheering Snape and Harry both equally. The Gryffindors, for their part, seemed more restrained than Harry would've liked, but the triumphant smiles of his friends made him forget all the rest. Yes, once again, they'd made a good team…

Instinctively, Harry made as if to step in their direction before stopping. Where was he supposed to sit? He looked up at Severus, who motioned discreetly with his chin toward the central table.

The High Table… Intimidated, Harry let himself be led to the chair designated for him, opposite Snape. A quick look around told him he was indeed the only student invited to a place of honor. Glancing at Severus again, he caught the professor's slight smile as he stared at him with a mocking, raised eyebrow. Holding back the urge to stick out his tongue, Harry made a discreet sign toward Ron and Hermione, while the Headmaster cleared his throat for silence.

"My dear students, professors, ghosts, elves and other creatures…"

A sigh of relief rose up from the assembly. No, for once, the Headmaster wasn't going to launch into an endless and detailed list of everyone present.

"I'm especially happy and proud this afternoon to be able to gather all the inhabitants of this great school to celebrate a very happy and important event. Just today, Professor Snape obtained the Ministry's official approval for the adoption of the young man already in his guardianship, Harry Potter."

Annoyed, Harry fidgeted in his chair as he frowned. He understood Dumbledore's intentions, but he would've definitely preferred to have the papers in hand before making such a declaration. Seeing the dark look Snape was shooting the Headmaster, he seemed to be of the same mind as well…at least, until the wizard handed Severus a parchment, which he read carefully.

His expression quickly relaxed, relief written all over his face as he handed the document to the boy. Curious, Harry hurried to read it, and it took only a few seconds to understand: Dumbledore had meant what he'd said. The Ministry had truly given its approval! He was officially Snape's son! His vision blurred for an instant, his head spinning unpleasantly, hardly aware of the wave of applause around him. Across from him, Severus seemed at once happy and tired, a mixture Harry had seldom had occasion to see on that face, and which considerably softened the professor's features.

"So, it's done, this time? For good?" Harry asked in a low voice.

"Yes, it would seem so. Any regrets?"

"Certainly not," the boy replied, finally allowing himself a smile.

"It's a rare event in Hogwarts' history that a professor adopts a student, and completely unique for it to be a student from a different House. With all of my heart, I wish this family union to be an example and inspiration to all of you, and hope that from this point forward, the House rivalries we've known in the past will be set aside. We live in particularly difficult times—a new threat has once again arisen in the wizarding world, jeopardizing our unity. This coming together of two people—beyond being from rival Houses—is also one of two individuals who've up until now had a difficult and even antagonistic relationship.

Severus frowned, but made no move to contradict him.

"Once again, it's from the worst moments that the best things come, and it's in adversity that people who believed themselves in opposition to one another find a common ground to face their trials. So it's with heartfelt emotion and considerable pleasure that I welcome a new family to our school. May they experience all the happiness they've been denied until now."

Another wave of applause greeted the end of the Headmaster's speech, and Harry, accustomed to the end signaling the beginning of the meal, was surprised to see Severus get up to take his own turn.

"I do not have much to add," he began, "except I profess to know that the unity hoped for by Professor Dumbledore has already begun to come about. In fact, I've read through this paper…"

He solemnly unfolded a parchment that Harry recognized as Hermione's petition.

"…and given the names I was able to decipher, it would appear that—for some reason of which I'm unaware—students from all four Houses decided to support this adoption. Whatever new threat Miss Granger fabricated to compel you all to sign, be advised that it's a gesture that I will never forget. And even though all assistance provided to Mister Potter in critical situations will be largely through my care, I will, however, remind those whose intentions might be less than amiable, that any threat or hostile overture, whether it be toward my son or my cat, will be severely punished. And that, regardless of the House affiliation of the erring student."

Harry thought it could only be a coincidence that Snape's eyes drifted toward Remus.

"As for the students of Slytherin House," he went on, as if he'd not just addressed them in his speech, "be informed that I'm now in my usual quarters in the dungeons, and so you can once again come seek me out if you have need. Even though the question has not yet been discussed, I hope to fully take up my duties in the very near future. Do not allow this day off, however, to give you any illusions as to the importance of turning in your Potions assignments on time."

Snape's speech was met with a groan, but a smattering of applause arose nonetheless. Harry didn't wait for all eyes to seek him out before he got up and took his turn.

"Well, um, it's my turn to thank all of you who helped us today, especially Hermione and Susan Bones—you really were there at the right time. I know the situation might seem weird, or too fast, or…a lot of things, but I wanted to assure you I'm not under any spell, Confundus or anything else. The Ministry agent even tested for that, you can believe it. There're too many things for me to tell you all of them now, but I hope to have more time soon to talk to you. And, um, of course, I mean students from all the Houses, at least, any who'd like to. What I'd really like to correct is something Professor Snape's just said: from here on out, my name's no longer Potter; it's Potter-Snape."

A murmur rose up from the tables, but Harry pressed on.

"Think what you like, but I'm sticking to it. The Ministry decision took it into account, so it's official now. Anyway, I know my relationships with the Gryffindors and Slytherins haven't always been easy ones, but my…father is Head of Slytherin, and I intend to do my best so everything goes well. I hope you'll give me the chance. I'd really like to make a new start…on everything. Everyone—thanks again."

It was only as he sat down that Harry noticed, at the end of the Slytherin table, a figure who seemed familiar. He frowned, refusing to believe his eyes, until the student leant slightly forward in a mockery of applause, clearly showing his face. Harry couldn't help but let out a low groan.

"He's here," he hissed through his teeth at Snape. "Malfoy. At the Slytherin table. How dare he?"

But Severus just lifted an ironic eyebrow, hardly impressed. "After your speech on goodwill amongst the Houses, I'm shocked," he replied.

"But this is Draco. What's he doing here? I thought he was locked up somewhere down in the dungeons."

"The occasion was sufficiently important to grant him a bit of a break, and considering the role he played today, I don't believe it's undeserved."

"I can't believe it," the boy hissed furiously. "Him, here, now! I can't believe it. It'll be the last straw if he comes to congratulate us."

"It will be the last straw if he doesn't," Snape said dryly.

So what had the boy expected? Harry had to learn to face this sort of unpleasant situation with more decorum and maturity if possible. But this wasn't the time to lecture him on etiquette, and no matter his own displeasure at Harry's hostile reaction, one thing was certain: Harry's reaction was at least rather important. And unfortunately for Snape, the boy was expressing this hostility in a very physical and visceral manner…

Resisting the pressing need to grab at his Mark, Severus lifted his arm across his chest as furtively as he could. The scar was throbbing painfully, just at it had so often when the Dark Lord had wanted to make his displeasure known. Harry was truly unaware of it, but the strength of his powers just then, combined with such sharp anger, would have made Voldemort go pale, faced with the peak of the boy's abilities.

"We'll talk about this later, Harry. Don't spoil the moment," he finally said, with all the normalcy that he could muster.

The boy nodded reluctantly and turned to look toward the Gryffindor table. The silent exchange between himself and his two friends seemed to calm him quickly, and Snape relaxed as he felt the pain recede into the background.

At last, the plates appeared on the table, and everyone grabbed their cutlery, including Harry, whose shyness seemed to quickly disappear. Merlin, did Harry have to mimic Weasley's table manners? Sighing, the professor brought the boy into line with a simple cluck of his tongue. Harry had the good grace to blush, before assuming an attitude that was more dignified but awkward.

The meal scarcely started, everyone began to make their way to congratulate the new family, forcing Snape to be more civil than he'd been in several decades at Hogwarts. As for Harry, he met these well wishes with good humor and obvious pleasure. Severus could almost hear the boy purring with happiness, like Shadow by the fire.

Harry, in fact, was swimming in a gentle stupor, a combination of good food, friendship and security. All these people seemed genuinely glad for what had happened to him, even Remus who was laughing with Professor McGonagall, even Flitwick who'd jumped from his seat to let loose a spray of fireworks at the end of his speech. In a way, all these people were his family now. Now that he was Snape's son, he would have a lifetime privilege to be at Hogwarts. At least for as long as Severus worked here.

Dessert finally arrived, but just as Harry thought the festivities were coming to an end, Hagrid surprised him, stepping up and placing a huge beribboned basket between him and Severus.

"I know it's not much, uh, but everyone was caught a bit off-guard! Shadow for sure already has one, but this one was made from griffin down. Best quality!" the giant grumbled into his beard.

Severus nodded. "It'll be very useful. Shadow doesn't have a basket at Hogwarts yet. Thank you, Hagrid."

A cat basket! Harry should've guessed. And in the middle of the fleece-lined willow basket was an earthenware bowl on which a lightning bolt had been clumsily engraved. Harry couldn't help but smile. "Thanks, Hagrid. It's perfect!"

The giant flushed, and delivered a poke in the ribs that narrowly missed ejecting Harry from his chair, before going off again. Each in turn, the professors filed by to give gifts that were both symbolic and appropriate. All were well-thought out, and were appreciated, but the one that touched Harry the most, though, was without a doubt the one McGonagall gave. Once again, his Head of House seemed to have used her usual discretion to take photos without them knowing it, but Harry was unable to feel cross with her as he opened the album she'd given him. In the space of only a few days, the professor had managed to gather dozens of photos of him and Snape, mostly the two of them together, some of them separately: Shadow prowling in the corridors; Severus reading a parchment, seeming pensive; and in another photo, looking at him with that half-amused, half-annoyed expression he so often wore.

Snape, though, had clearly been wrong on one point. McGonagall hadn't got rid of all the photos she'd taken when he'd been a student at Hogwarts, and as Harry went through the pages, he found photos of a young Severus, most often with Lily. Many pages were still empty, leaving the boy thoughtful. The album Hagrid had given him, a few years before, would never be full. This one, though, would only get fuller. His new family was well and truly here, in the present.

And if Snape was less effusive than his son with his thanks, it was clear he was no less touched by his colleague's gesture.

Conversation took a lighter turn, and pudding was just about finished when a Slytherin student got up and headed for the staff table. Deliberately ignoring Harry, he went to Snape, whose face was unreadable. Even if Harry didn't know the students from this House well, he recognized Terrence Higgs, the Slytherin Seeker whom Malfoy had replaced in second year.

The boy stopped stiffly at Severus' side. "In the name of all of Slytherin House, please accept this token of our esteem and our congratulations on this happy event."

With a solemn gesture, he held out an antique-looking magical book to his Head of House. Craning his neck, Harry could read the title: Great Wizarding Lineages. Rather ambiguous, Harry thought, but Severus would know better than he if this were an insult or a real gift.

Slightly inclining his head, Severus took the book and placed in front of Harry.

"Thank you, Mister Higgs. In the very near future, I hope to have the opportunity to talk with the entire House about all of this."

"I hope so too, sir," the boy replied, before nodding back and turning for his table.

Around them, Harry heard the students of the other Houses begin to whisper among themselves, clearly unhappy. No one, it would appear, had had time to prepare a symbolic gift in the name of their House…and the Gryffindors seemed offended.

"Severus, I'll be back," he murmured before slipping away as discreetly as possible. The closer he got to the table where his House sat, the more Harry felt a wave of relief wash over him. It was a great honor to be able to sit at the staff table, but he'd missed his friends and the joking of those around him.

Trying, but without any real hope of keeping his flight unnoticed, he slid onto the bench between Hermione and Ron.

"Hey, everything all right?" Ron asked, swallowing the last of his third slice of cake. "So, that's how you get to eat at the grownup's table, huh? Okay, I can't say I envy you—hard to get seconds with Hagrid beside you…"

"No, it's fine," Harry reassured him. "Intimidating at the start, but Severus is there. Dirty trick by the Slytherins, wasn't it?"

"Their present?" Hermione asked. "No, that was very well done on their part. Professor Snape must be proud of them; I can't believe none of us thought to get something—I'm really embarrassed, Harry."

"You're joking, I hope," the boy retorted. "It was thanks to you that the adoption happened! I have to see Susan Bones, but right now's probably not the best time."

"To do it discreetly, probably not," Hermione agreed. "But it'd be good manners for you to visit Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw later. Professor Dumbledore was right—this is truly a diplomatic mission you have on your hands."

"Give me a break," Harry moaned, "let me enjoy the moment. Tomorrow, I promise. You've no idea how horrible this day's been."

"And it's only the afternoon," Ron laughed. "I'm sorry the twins weren't there; they sure would've had some great ideas on how to handle that horrible woman."

"I don't doubt it, but I prefer not to get her back up any more than necessary. No support from the Ministry is enough just now."

"They can't cancel the adoption, can they?" Ginny asked, drawing closer.

"No, not a chance. Harry's considered the professor's natural son now," Hermione reassured her. "Which doesn't mean they can't cause them problems. You're right to be wary. The…your other House is still well protected?"

"Always, and that risks being a problem, but it's not the most important thing right now," Harry said. "Did you see who had the nerve to show up for the party?"

"You're talking about Draco Malfoy?" Ron asked. "That dirty little snake…"

"Himself," Harry hissed, furious. "I can't believe Dumbledore let him come. And Snape seemed to find that normal."

"He did help both of you, though, in his own way," Hermione said, trying to calm him.

"He tried to set a trap for us, and got trapped himself, that's all. And now there he is at the Slytherin table, celebrating the adoption like nothing happened!"

"Actually," Ron said, "he's not at the Slytherin table anymore."

Harry followed the jerk of Ron's head, and what he saw at the staff table made him see red. Obviously taking advantage of his absence, Draco had slid into Harry's seat and was now talking with Snape, both of them bent over the table to keep their conversation private.

Seeing them, it was clear there was a longstanding bond between the two, Harry thought. Draco seemed upset, but Severus was frowning, speaking to him in a clearly calm and fatherly manner.

Which was too much for Harry. Throwing all discretion to the wind, he stomped off for the staff table, ready to eject Malfoy from his seat. His fury grew even greater when Snape noticed him, and shot him a deeply annoyed look. Oh, he was interrupting their little discussion, was he? Well, it was his adoption party, and Severus was going to have to deal with it. Harry was his son now, and Malfoy had nothing to say about it!

Before he had time to get there, though, Draco had left his seat to go back to his own table, contenting himself with shooting an angry, scornful glance at Harry.

Gritting his teeth, Harry took his place again, unable to look at Snape just then. How could Severus?

"Harry?" The low voice made Harry look up. Severus' face was tense and his eyes were flashing.

"What was he doing here?" the boy hissed.

"He wanted to talk to me," Snape replied, his voice laced with irritation.

"He had no right coming here!"

"And why not? There's nothing to forbid anyone from visiting another table, today like any other."

"You know very well what I mean," Harry gritted out, clenching his fists. What was Severus playing at?

"You're not the only person I must look after, Harry," Snape said firmly. "You are my son and nothing will change that, but I'm also Head of Slytherin, and I'm responsible for the well-being of my students. We'll continue this discussion later. If you'll excuse me for a moment," he said to his colleagues, before being the next to walk away.

But to Harry's surprise, Severus didn't head for the Slytherin table, but stiffly left the Great Hall. Furious and uncomfortable at having been deserted this way, the boy risked a glance at the Slytherin table. Speculation seemed to be running rampant among the students, but it was Malfoy's face that caught his eye once again. Alone in his corner, Draco was staring at him condescendingly, a slight smile on his face. Severus' departure had obviously pleased him.

Unable to restrain himself any longer, Harry turned to Remus. He had to get away from here—talk to Severus and sort this out right away. There was no way he was going to let a Malfoy spoil his party on the day of his adoption. But at that instant, he realized that Lupin had also disappeared. Had he gone after Snape? Harry hadn't seen him, but it didn't matter; he didn't have time to look for another chaperone. The entire school was gathered here, so he wasn't risking anything by being in the corridors just now.

Quickly transforming into the cat, he disappeared beneath the table and slipped like a shadow for the exit. It seemed that someone called after him, but not waiting for anything more, Shadow took off into the corridor after Snape. Where could the professor have been going? Most likely to their rooms or his laboratory. In any case, heading in the direction of Slytherin was the obvious choice. Hugging the walls, he ran for the stairs as fast as his paws would take him.

It was so good and practical to be a cat in moments like these! In human form, it would've taken him three times longer to run the same distance, and he felt in such better physical shape, even if he could hear his heart pounding wildly in his head. His breathing too…was it his own? Really?

Flattening his ears against his head, he increased his speed. Something wasn't right, he could sense it; something shouldn't have been there—that noise, this feeling; he'd already come across it before, almost every time he'd prowled Hogwarts' hallways, in fact. Speeding up more, he turned into a larger corridor, trying to get rid of the feeling. He had nothing to fear, good grief, he was a cat and everybody was in the Great Hall right now, and he was at Hogwarts, the most protected place besides the Manor!

But as he emerged into another corridor, what he saw made him change his mind. Oh, there was indeed someone who wasn't in the Great Hall…or rather, something, he thought as his fur stood on end. Right in front of him, Loki stood panting in satisfaction, fangs bared and a triumphant gleam in his eyes.

How the devil could the wolf have got here? Merlin, he was supposed to be locked up in the Headmaster's office. Who could've let him out?

But all speculation stopped when the huge beast took a single leap in his direction, jaws gaping. In a panicked motion that was becoming familiar, Shadow leapt backward, crouching to gather himself, then began to flee as fast as he paws would take him.

Think, he had to think. How had he got out of this the last time? Malfoy! Where was Malfoy when you needed him? Slipping behind the suits of armor had slowed the beast, but how much time would that buy him? He had to get back to the Great Hall as fast as he could; he never should've left by himself, he should've waited for Remus. But where was Remus, then?

"Loki! No!"

The shout answered Shadow's question, as he felt a wave of relief spread through him. The wolf, though, only slowed, obviously reluctant to obey. Weaving in and out of the clanking armor, the cat tried desperately to let Remus intervene. Merlin, if Snape arrived before Loki was brought under control, they might be making a wolf skin carpet before the day was done.

"Loki! That's enough!"

This time, the threat was accompanied by a spell, and an instant later, Remus jumped on the animal, grabbing at a collar that Shadow hadn't noticed before.

Heart pounding, still hidden in an alcove, he took note of the accessory. So it would seem the wolf had also found himself with a collar round his neck, but he doubted Loki took to it as well as he did.

Flushed and out of breath, Remus managed to make the wolf sit, and slightly loosened his hold on him. Something was wrong with Remus, Shadow thought, but wasn't able to figure out what.

"Loki, you promised. Why do you always have to ruin everything? Harry, are you hurt?"

Reluctantly coming out from his hiding place, Shadow transformed.

"No, but it's not his fault. I understand dogs feel obliged to chase cats, but this is getting ridiculous!" he said, in an attempt at a joke.

"I'm sorry, Harry, so sorry," Remus sighed. "I wanted…oh, Merlin. I wanted to introduce Loki to everyone, take advantage of the day, but… I should've…I don't know what came over me. I didn't watch over him well enough."

Flabbergasted, Harry glanced at the wolf that seemed uninterested in the situation. Introduce Loki? On the day of his adoption? Without talking to Dumbledore about it? What was Remus thinking?

Skeptically, he scrutinized the professor suspiciously. His red face, the strangeness of his eyes; he recognized this…Lupin had been drinking!

"Remus!" he cried. "You were…but…oh."

"I'm sorry, Harry, really. But for pity's sake, what were you doing alone in the corridors?"

"I live here," the boy retorted. "I wanted to see Severus; he left the Hall rather suddenly."

"Ach, I knew it!" a voice thundered from behind them, making them jump. A moment afterward, a furious Hagrid lumbered toward Loki. "What did you do again? Can't you leave the cats alone? What sort of manners are these?"

To Harry's surprise, Loki looked sheepish.

"And you, Professor, what where you thinking? Luckily, someone warned me. Merlin, you can't just…"

"Oh look, a dog!" a young female voice interrupted.

"No, it's a wolf, and a big one at that!"

"See there, it has a collar!"

"Professor Lupin, is he yours?"

Caught off balance by the sudden arrival of students, Remus had nothing to say. It was Dumbledore's familiar voice that came to his rescue.

"Come, come, all students back to the Great Hall, please! The situation is under control."

But as the students reluctantly obeyed, Remus turned to face them, a hand on Loki's collar. "Yes, he's mine. You'll probably have a chance to see him in Hogwarts in the near future."

Harry couldn't help but notice Hagrid's frustration and the disappointment on Dumbledore's face, but neither of the two students said a word. With a nod, they left the corridor, Hagrid following after. An uncomfortable silence settled over the hallway.

"Ah well, once again we have a regrettable situation," the Headmaster sighed. "I'm not even certain I know where to begin. Harry, why did you leave without warning?"

"I just wanted to talk to Severus," the boy defended himself. "And I came across Loki."

"And?" Dumbledore prompted.

With an apologetic glance at Remus, Harry went on. "And he chased me. But I wasn't sure…maybe he just wanted to play."

The wolf's chuckle was revelation enough, but it was Remus' groan that made Harry realize how pathetic an attempt at an excuse this was.

"Professor Lupin?" asked in a dangerously cold voice.

"I…wanted to introduce Loki to the rest of the school."

"Ah, even though he'd just attacked Harry? I doubt that was an appropriate time to do it."

"No one has to know," Remus said with a pleading look for Harry.

The boy shrugged. He hadn't been hurt; what did it matter if that could make Remus happy?

"Oh really," drawled a voice from behind them. "How interesting. Of course, no one had to know that a werewolf was teaching at Hogwarts either; why would it be necessary to make it public knowledge that an out-of-control Animagus wolf is now roaming freely and attacking students?"

Harry closed his eyes. He was familiar enough with this dangerously ironic tone to know that a storm was brewing behind his father's black eyes.

"That's enough, Severus," Dumbledore said soothingly. "I'll take care of this. Professor Lupin, besides the fact that Loki clearly represents a danger for the inhabitants of this school, might I point out that this is Harry's adoption day? It seems to me that a single celebration of a new father-son relationship is enough for today."

"That's not what I intended," Remus replied, his face even redder. "I wanted to introduce Loki as…my familiar, and eventually as a study subject for Defense classes. Nothing so…extraordinary," he finished.

Was it just an impression, or was there a note of bitterness in Lupin's voice? Severus wondered. What in the devil was the werewolf thinking? But of course, he smelled a strong odor of alcohol, and it was obvious that the animal… The wizard had drunk more than was reasonable. Whether Lupin was having considerable difficulty accepting the adoption, or whether his relationship with his own son were proving more catastrophic than he'd foreseen: one didn't rule out the other.

But that changed nothing of what had just happened. Merlin, he'd only left for five minutes, the time to swallow down some potions to calm the Mark, and Harry had almost got himself killed again. Even here at Hogwarts, the very day of the adoption.

Severus felt a dull anger growing inside him. "This animal cannot stay here."

Harry turned his eyes toward Loki, but Dumbledore wasn't fooled, and shot him a reproachful look.

"All will be fine, Severus; it's just a matter of a few adjustments."

"No, Lupin nearly killed me when I was Harry's age, and now it's his son taking over, but against my son. No, Albus. Everything won't be fine. I will not wait for the next time to see it finally done. You must choose; it will be Lupin or myself."

"You're taking things in much too dramatic a fashion," Dumbledore began.

Beside him, Harry held back a groan. So what was the Headmaster hoping for with this sort of argument? Even without looking at him he could feel Snape's fury go up a notch. Sighing, he took a step toward him, trying to meet his eyes.

"Please," he said gently. "I'm fine. I know you're doing this for me, and I'm not exactly happy about what just happened, but please…give them another chance."

"I don't really see why you should have to be concerned with this creature," Severus hissed.

"Because…everybody needs a family, and they need more time, and they won't get that outside of Hogwarts. Loki needs Hagrid, and Remus needs Professor Dumbledore and us, and I'd really like to be able to help."

"As you yourself pointed out with the help of a measure of alcohol, your dear Lupin never seemed to think you were a priority in his life," Snape bit out venomously.

"I know," Harry replied, trying not to let his emotions show on his face. "But that doesn't mean I'm like that. I prefer to be like my father." Seeing the doubt in Severus' eyes, he judged it best to be more precise. "…like you, and give people a chance, even if everything isn't perfect."

"I really don't see how that should pertain to myself," Severus retorted. "I have no impulses to behave like a Gryffindor or, Merlin forbid, a Hufflepuff."

"No, but you didn't throw me out once you knew…who Shadow was."

"I still don't see any relationship," Severus said.

"Doesn't matter," Harry sighed as he shook his head. "If you go, I'm coming with you, but I'd really prefer for all of us to stay at Hogwarts. Remus included…and Loki. Please."

Snape's mouth twisted in a moue of disgust, but he nodded at last. "It's not a good day to refuse anything, I suppose." Then, turning to Remus, he added, "As for you, Lupin, don't think we're finished here. We'll talk again once the festivities are over. From here on out, keep your dog leashed, and if I should surprise it, wandering on its own in Hogwarts… Well, let's sat at the very least we'll have a problem," he murmured.

Lupin's face paled markedly, and Severus saw the anger cross his face before he conceded defeat with his head lowered.

"Understood."

"Gentlemen, perhaps we should return to the Great Hall before a search party is sent out for us," the Headmaster suggested.

For a moment, the two fathers considered each other before setting off again. But Severus didn't need Legilimency to know that Lupin—Gryffindor that he was—was mulling over thoughts much darker than his own.

Meditating on the strangeness of fate, Snape headed for the Great Hall, a hand on his son's shoulder.