The shadows barely stood out from behind the thick curtains, but Harry couldn't pull his eyes away.  Nothing but indistinct outlines cast by the full moon, but it was easy to imagine wolves there, or maybe the silhouettes of men, or even stags.

Sighing, he threw back the covers and headed for the window.  It'd been well into the night when he and Snape had gone to their rooms, and he felt exhausted now.  Enough, he believed, to fall asleep the moment his head hit the pillow…but that hadn't been the case.

Pictures of the day swam through his head, over and over, not any less harrowing.  The shouts in the corridor.  Ron and Hermione.  Snape Disapparating.  Ron's insinuations.  Remus wounded.  Hagrid gone…   How could he sleep?

Drawing open the curtains, he sat on the windowsill, his eyes turned toward the park.  The room was located on the main floor, but the ground fell away, down towards the park, affording him a large open view of the surrounding area.

Yes, he could've almost imagined the shadows of a stag and dog out there, underneath the trees…and Remus with them, of course.  Maybe even Lily watching them with amusement.  Who would've thought of his mother in the midst of all that?  Remus and Severus risking their lives, Hogwarts under siege, his own life suddenly so complicated.  What good did it do him to have Voldemort's powers if he wasn't able to master them most of the time?  And if…

Light knocking at the door pulled him from his reverie.

"Come in."

The door opened and closed soundlessly, giving way to a wizard with drawn features.  Without a word, Snape came to join him, and sat on the edge of the bed, facing him.  Harry thought he could detect a trace of worry in the eyes searching his face.

"I couldn't get to sleep," he apologized.

Snape nodded. "It was a rather long day."

"I was tired earlier.  I suppose I should've taken a Sleeping Draught."

"Potions aren't the remedy for everything," Severus replied calmly.

Harry glanced at him in surprise.  It wasn't the first time the Potions master had said that…  And curiously, he couldn't help but experience a certain comfort in hearing it.

"It's just too hard to sleep while Remus is in the infirmary and Hagrid is maybe dead by now.  If only I could do something.  I can't even sense Voldemort's thoughts anymore."

"Which is rather a good thing," Snape said.  "That means he is still too weak to try anything, now that your new powers have mastered his intrusions.  You cannot always save the world, Harry.  No one expects that of you."

"Really?" Harry asked with a small, bitter smile.  "I thought that was still how it worked.  I save the world and you save me."

"Harry," Snape huffed out, "By now, I thought you understood."

"Understood what exactly?" Harry asked suspiciously.  He thought he knew the answer very well, but he needed to hear it.

"That's only the war, idiot child.  I'm not here to win a stupid battle.  I'm here for you."

The boy let out a long sigh.  "Yeah, that's what Ron seems to think as well."

"Ron?" Snape asked, raising an eyebrow.

"After you left earlier, he said something really stupid," Harry stopped hesitantly.  He wasn't at all sure he wanted to witness Snape's reaction to Ron's accusations.

"And how ridiculous did Mr Weasley make himself seem?" Severus asked.

Reluctantly, Harry continued, "Roughly…he wanted to know if there was, you know, something between you and me.  Like a romantic relationship."

He sensed more than saw Snape stiffen.

"And I lost control of my powers a bit," Harry finished, distraught.

"Meaning?"

"I transformed and then I jumped on him.  I mean, really, I scratched him and bit him like…what did he call it.  Oh, yeah, an enraged puma."

In the light of the full moon, he saw a slight smile stretch the professor's lips.

"I really didn't think," Harry continued.  "I was crazy with rage and that's what happened.   I don't even know if I could've transformed back.  Hermione took charge of, er, calming me down."

"I see," the professor said slowly before sighing.  "I don't know where to begin.  What's on your mind the most, Harry—your powers or Mr. Weasley's obscene insinuations?"

"I don't think I know," he finally confessed without daring to meet the professor's eyes.

Severus nodded solemnly.  For a long moment, he was silent, gathering his thoughts.  When he finally began to speak, it was in a calm and measured voice, heavy with regret.

"It's a bit strange to think that the person I actually loved, Harry, was your mother."

Harry's breath caught.  "The only one?"

Snape nodded.  "Your mother and I met when we were children.  She was my only true friend, and as we grew up, my feelings naturally evolved.  She was…everything to me.  In a way, she was the only person who really counted through all those years.  My parents weren't really the sort of people to whom it was easy to become attached, and as far as I know, they thought the same of me."

"I know what you mean," Harry murmured, pictures of Vernon and Petunia flashing through his mind.

"I don't doubt it," Snape answered gently.  "Like your aunt and uncle, my parents had never wanted me there.  In truth, I don't think they ever wanted to make a family."  He was lost for a moment in his memories, before going on, "Lily was always there for me.  When I later had to choose between her and what I thought to be the only way to achieve a glorious destiny…   I could've never chosen anything but her, Harry, you must believe me.  But everything turned out wrong."

He shook his head.  "Losing her was the worst thing that'd ever happened to me.  Even if she chose your father in the end, even if her feelings for me faded, I was never able to do the same.  I was never able to forget her."  He grimaced.

"The Dark Lord had long insisted on my meeting other witches, purebloods.  But I succeeded in convincing him that my work as Potions master could only suffer from it, and he ended by abandoning the idea.  A relief, you can imagine."

Then, searching Harry's eyes and fixing them, he went on, "There never was, and there never will be, anyone but your mother for me, Harry.  Rather pathetic, I know.  I've never been a great romantic, really.  Loving once was enough for me, I suppose."

Holding his eyes, Harry answered softly, "She loved you too, I'm sure of it."

Snape gave a small bitter smile.  "She loved your father, Harry, have no doubt about it.  Even more than she could've ever loved me.  They were a very close and happy couple, really.  Thinking about it, I can't help but say that she made the right choice.  Despite the tragic fate that befell your parents…"

He shook his head.  "They were perfect for each other, Harry.  You're the best proof of that."

Harry swallowed hard. "I'm sorry."

"You have no reason to be," Severus replied.  "Anyway, that part of me died with Lily.  Mr. Weasley's fears on that matter are entirely misguided and unnecessary."

Harry nodded.  He was relieved to have been able to talk to Severus about it, but the professor's account had left a weight in his chest.

"In reality," the professor continued a bit more hoarsely, "the simple notion of feeling fondness for someone became impossible for me after she disappeared.  Not that I'd ever been particularly sociable, obviously," he added with a slight smile.  "The risk of becoming fond of someone, and losing them…it wasn't worth it."

Yes, Harry could almost feel the pain in the professor's voice.  But it was his own fear that formed a lump in his throat now.

"And then you arrived," Snape added.  "Shadow.  You.  I don't know how I was able to deny seeing anything but James in you for so long…James who'd stolen Lily's eyes.  But that had nothing to do with you, after all.  And what you are, Harry, what's brought us closer these last few weeks, I know I don't want to lose it."

Harry felt himself relax all of a sudden as he met the professor's eyes.  "I understand, you know.  That you hated me from the start, I mean.  Everyone tells me I look like James.  In your place, I would've hated me too."

Snape shook his head.  "It was irrational and petty.  Completely inappropriate behavior for someone my age.  Albus told me often enough.   But none of that's important anymore.  I hope you can believe that."

"I know," Harry said softly, "your cat, huh?"

Severus tensed.  "I hope that jest didn't offend you," he said stiffly.

"On the contrary. I liked it.  Being your cat, I mean.  It was almost like having a family."  He hesitated for a moment.  "Do you think it would be possible for…"

"Yes?" Snape encouraged him when he stopped.

"You know, when I saw your memories the other day, not on purpose, when I, er, used Legilimency?"

"I remember very well," the professor grumbled.

"Uh, yeah, so, well…you told Petunia…oh, no, forget about it."  With a groan of frustration, he looked toward the window.  It would've been good to be out there, flying…

"Harry, go on.  I'm not going to be angry."

"It's not that.  It's…" He took a deep breath, and summoning his courage, he said, "Petunia said I could've been your son, and you told her yes, by a few years.  Is that really possible?  That I'm your son, I mean?"

The long look Snape gave him only increased his anxiety.  Something made the professor's lips twist, then he finally opened his mouth to answer.  "No, Harry, you're not my son.  It's enough to look at you to know that: you're the spitting image of James.  And more handsome, if I might say.  Lily's features softened his…   In any case, I never had a physical relationship with your mother, Harry.  Merlin, I couldn't even tell her I loved her, so how could there've been?" he groaned, feeling his stomach knot with the memories.

In front of him, he saw Harry's face fall slightly.  Merlin, at times the boy could seem so pathetic.  How could he want to be the son of an ex-Death Eater, one who'd caused his parents' downfall, nothing less?  And yet…  He cleared his throat.

"Harry, listen to me.  No, you certainly are not my biological son.  But the ties of blood aren't everything, at least when it comes to family.  Lily was more my family than my parents could've ever been.  If that's what you want…" He took a deep breath. "I'd certainly have no objection to us establishing this type of relationship between the two of us."

"You don't have to do that," the boy answered quickly.

"No, indeed," Snape replied. "It's a completely selfish and self-serving suggestion on my part."

"Self-serving?" Harry asked, astonished and disconcerted.  "I don't understand."

"The laboratory is overrun with mice; I desperately need a cat to hunt them down," Snape said in his most serious tone of voice.

Harry smiled at him, the tension he'd not even felt suddenly leaving his shoulders.  "I meant what I said, Professor," he went on.  "You don't owe my mother anything.  Even if she led me here, you've already done a great deal for me.  It's me who owes you a debt, really."

"And I also meant what I said, Potter.  A debt…do you think my life is ordered only by obligations and debts?" he asked dryly.

"I…no, that's not what I meant," Harry exclaimed quickly.

"I'm probably not the best model for a father figure you could imagine.  Actually, I don't have the slightest experience in the matter, and my knowledge of family theory is rudimentary.  But if you like, I'm ready to try.  You have no obligation either, Harry, let that be clear.  Only know that the door is open…"

Harry took a moment to look at him, his mouth open and his eyes sparkling.

"Are you serious?"

"As serious as I can be.  I know our relationship has changed much recently, and you have every reason to mistrust me and my steadfastness, but I can assure you that my intentions toward you are completely firm.  Whatever you decide, I will always be here if you need me."

The boy stayed silent for a long moment, and Severus could almost see the thoughts racing through his head. 

When Harry spoke finally spoke again, his voice was slow and earnest.  "When Voldemort tried to reach me the other day in the dungeon, to make me go out, he used you."

Snape opened his mouth to answer, but Harry lifted a hand to stop him.

"He sent me visions.  A little like in a Pensieve…and a little like what Malfoy and Bellatrix did.  Except this time, it was you.  You were with Dumbledore, and you were telling him that you couldn't stand me, that I was obnoxious and that you'd had enough of playing at this farce."

He fixed his eyes on Snape's to make sure he understood what he meant.  "But it didn't work.  I didn't believe it.  I couldn’t."  He sighed.  "I trust you, all right?  I trust you."

He easily read the new measure of respect in the professor's eyes, and something that almost looked like gratitude.

"Thank you, Harry," he breathed out.

"It's for me to thank you.  And if you're sure about wanting me…   I know I'm totally cracked, and I'm not sure I know more about it than you, but…  Yes, I'd like to try as well."

There was a sudden lull in the conversation as the two wizards studied each other, with slight smiles on their faces.  Then, with a flick of his wand, Snape made two bottles of butterbeer appear, then held one out to Harry.

"I suppose this is cause for celebration," he said as he uncapped his own.

Smiling outright now, Harry held out his hand to tap their bottles together.  "To the future."

"To the future," Snape echoed.

Turning their eyes toward the park, they drank their butterbeers in long gulps.

For an instant, Harry thought that this was probably the happiest moment of his life.  Just peaceful, he thought to himself.  Just peaceful, after a horrible day.  The memories of it flooded his mind, and he sobered.

"Professor…Severus.  About what happened earlier, I wouldn't want you to think…   I mean, I'm not afraid of you."

Snape looked at him, lifting an ironic eyebrow.  "You're going to have to be more specific if you want me to understand what you're saying.  The day's been very long and rather full."

"Earlier in the laboratory, when you came back," Harry explained.  "When you wanted to touch me and I stepped away.  It wasn't you.  It was just a reflex.  I know very well you wouldn't hurt me," he stated as firmly as he could.

But Snape, trained to notice everything, sensed the question in his declaration.  He shook his head.  "Merlin, Harry.  No, I'd never raise a hand to you, not in that way.  Whatever I might've done in my career as a Death Eater, I never had the slightest impulse to strike a child…not even you, despite our past history."

"I know, Professor," Harry repeated.

"I'm not so sure," Snape said.

There was silence, then Harry went on, "I'm not really a child, you know.  You could…I don't know.  You might say I always manage to hit on the precise thing that makes you beside yourself.  But I don't do it on purpose, I swear."

"Harry…"  Severus stretched out a hand to the boy's shoulders and pulled him close to himself.  After a second's hesitation, Harry let go and leant against the professor, who wrapped him in his arms.

Oh, Merlin.  Closing his eyes, Harry gave in to the feeling that filled him, that of being protected.

"Harry," Snape continued gently, "you're a child.  Clearly you are.  You've perhaps passed beyond your childhood years, but that changes nothing of the fact that you're still only a young boy who has the right to be protected, and to want to be protected. Perhaps you seem older than you are, but it seems to me that just yesterday you were eleven, and you narrowly missed falling from that bloody broom in the middle of the match.  Whatever you do, Harry, you could never push me to hurt you.  The idea of striking you has never crossed my mind, not even after that episode with the Pensieve."

Harry buried his head a bit more in the wizard's robes at these words.  If only he could forget that incident….

"On the other hand…you saw my memories the other day, didn't you?"

Harry nodded, unable to speak.  Snape was right. He was eleven and he only wanted to stay there, listening to the professor comforting him, without having to worry about the rest of it.

"So, you know what I think about the way your uncle treated you."

Harry shuddered and lifted his head, finally finding the will to speak.  "Thanks," he murmured.  "For what you did…avenging me for what he did…thanks."

The professor ran a hand through the boy's hair, trying to soothe the tension that this memory had created in him.  "It was only justice," he said.  "After all, he hurt my cat, didn't he?"

Harry smiled, closing his eyes.

"Don't worry about it, Harry," Severus continued.  "I'll never raise a hand to you, and I wouldn't allow anyone else to do it.  If I'm able, I'll not permit anyone to hurt you, full stop.  That's a promise."

Whether or not Harry heard this last part of the professor's speech, the effect was the same.  His head on Snape's chest, the boy fell asleep, a peaceful smile on his face, and he didn't even awaken when Snape lifted him gently in his arms to put him to bed.

***

The curtains were drawn, but that didn't keep Harry from realizing that the sun was already well up when he opened his eyes.

Images of the night before immediately filled his head.  Hogwarts.  The attack.  Ron.  Remus.  Hagrid.  Snape…

Had all that actually happened?  At the thought of Remus and Hagrid, worry knotted his stomach, but it was Snape's words that stood out above all the rest.

It was probably selfish on his part, but…  Had he really said what he'd said?  Had he suggested being a family with him?  Snape…of all people…but that was exactly what he'd been looking for, of course. 

His Snape.

He buried his head in the pillow for an instant, a slight smile on his face.  Yes, Remus was bad off at Hogwarts, and Hagrid had disappeared.  No, the problems weren't going to magically disappear.  But now it seemed as if something stood between him and his nightmares, or rather someone.  An adult who was there to watch over him and take care of him.  Protect him.

He stayed a minute more, cradled by this new and comforting feeling, before finally deciding to get up.

A shower later, he headed for the kitchen, where he found lunch already made and waiting for him.  Snape was starting to know his tastes, it seemed.  Impatient, he quickly consumed his meal, then took the steps down to the dungeon, four at a time.

He couldn't deny a certain apprehension; how was it going to be, finding himself in Snape's presence after the scene of last evening?

But the knot in his stomach relaxed when the wizard turned to greet him, a slight smile on his face.  One truly had to know Snape to understand that he was smiling, he thought, so slight was the facial expression.

But Harry knew it.  Or rather, he sensed it.

"Did you sleep well?"

"Yes, thanks, and you?"

The wizard nodded. 

"Any news of Remus?" Harry asked eagerly.

"I spoke with Albus this morning, and Lupin hasn't awakened yet.  He promised to alert us as soon as that's the case."

"I suppose it's not worth it for me to go see him while he's unconscious," Harry sighed.  "And Hagrid?"

Severus shook his head.  "Nothing new there.  Lupin will no doubt be able to tell us more when he awakes."

"Could I stop by to see Remus today, even if he's not awake?  I know it's idiotic, but I really need to see him," Harry explained.

"We're going to Hogwarts today anyway.  I must stop by to see my Slytherins, and you have an apology to make to the Headmaster."

Harry felt the blood drain from his face.  This was it…the behavior lecture.

"I don't know what came over me yesterday."

"Harry, I thought you'd finally accepted that Lucius' visions were nothing more than just that?" Severus began.

"I know it.  Really.  I just reacted badly when I thought that Remus…   And you….   Listen, you can't say it's not true.  It's Dumbledore who directs everyone."

"From that to calling him Voldemort, Harry…"

"I know, I know," he sighed.  "I was hysterical, I think."

"At least you didn't find it necessary to destroy my laboratory like the Headmaster's office."

"I…no," he said pitifully.

"That time, Black had just died and your reaction seemed understandable, in light of the drama you'd just suffered through.  I know you've just gone through some more than trying times, Harry, but you must truly realize that this type of behavior has no place in our circumstances.  We're at war, and the world is dangerous.  It serves no purpose to condemn Dumbledore.  I'm not always in agreement with his choices either, but he does his best, that at least is certain."

"All the same," the boy murmured, "I'd prefer if he sent people I don't know to the front."

Severus came nearer and put a hand on Harry's chin to make him look up.  "I'd also prefer for you not to have to face Voldemort.  But certain things are inevitable.  All that we can do is to prepare, the best that we can, and that's what the Headmaster is doing."

Harry nodded.  "I'll apologize.  I'm not sure I'll mean it, but I'll apologize."

Snape sighed. "That's a start.  But I've never seen you so…emotional, Harry.  Is it recent events that have made you this way?"

"I don’t' know," the boy said nervously.  "There're too many things going on, and I don't know what to think anymore.  It's rather recent for me that you're the nice person in the story, and Dumbledore the bad one, you know."

"Things are not black and white.  Albus is still the same person you've known and respected.  Comparing him to Voldemort was a rather awful thing to say."

Harry shuddered.  "That was unfair of me.  I was just so afraid of…losing what I have.  What I have left.  I'm not even sure I know what I have to lose, really, but…"

A whoosh of green flames rose up in the fireplace, making Harry startle.  An instant afterward, Dumbledore's head appeared, a smile on his face.

"Severus, Harry, the very ones I wanted to see!"

"Most likely, yes," Snape said dryly.  "If that weren't the case, you chose the wrong fireplace."

"Ah, very true, evidently.  Remus Lupin regained consciousness in the infirmary a few minutes ago.  I thought you'd like to know.  He's asking for Harry, of course," the professor said with a kind look for the boy.

Harry immediately rushed for the fireplace.

"Wait."

Severus' voice from behind seemed to unsettle him.  Harry turned, his eyes pleading.

"We'll go," the professor said soothingly, "but I'd prefer that you transform, at least until we've arrived."

Harry made a face. "Give me a sign when I should transform back, all right?  I want to talk to Remus, if possible."

Severus nodded, and a second later a black cat jumped to his shoulder, obviously content.

"It's becoming a habit, isn't it?" Snape asked as he looked at the cat, his eyebrow raised.

The animal blinked. 

"I suppose I should get used to it.  Hogwarts infirmary!" he announced, throwing a handful of Floo powder.

The infirmary was deserted, other than a bed surrounded by white curtains.  Led by the Headmaster, they slipped soundlessly behind the partition.

It appeared that Madam Pomfrey'd had quite a bit to do for her patient: Remus' face and every visible part of his body were covered with bandages, leaving a glimpse of a pair of hazy eyes and a slight smile when Snape made his entrance, the cat on his shoulder.

"Harry, I presume?" the werewolf said weakly.

"No, Lupin, I always walk about with a black cat on my shoulder," the Potions master grumbled.  A quick glance at Dumbledore confirmed that all was well, so he nudged the cat downward with a slight move of his shoulder.

Understanding the signal, Harry took his human form again, and hurried to Remus' bed, a smile on his face.

"Wasn't that great, Remus?  Did you see?"

His former professor smiled a bit more.  "You seem very gifted, Harry.  But I confess I've not understood very well how you came about this new ability?  It's a terribly long process…"

The boy quickly sought out Snape's eyes.  What he read there confirmed his doubts: pointless to overload Remus with too much emotion just now.

"It's a long story," Harry simply said.  "I'm sorry, I've not even asked how you are.  You look awful," he confessed, his smile fading away.

"It's a good thing if you can see how I am underneath all of Poppy's dressings," Remus joked. "I'll be fine, Harry.  I've been better, but I'll soon be on my feet, Madam Pomfrey assures me."

"But what put you in such a state?  It was…the other werewolves, wasn't it?"

"More or less," Remus sighed.  "There was a slight misunderstanding when we got to Hagrid's hut.  What you must absolutely understand, Harry, is that you're not safe at Hogwarts, at least not as much as you should be. I want you to be on your guard constantly, never without your wand, and never go anywhere without at least one person with you."

"So it's true, then, they were coming for me?" Harry asked gloomily.

Remus hesitated slightly. "They were coming to look for you, yes.  And to give a warning."

"Voldemort?" Harry asked.

Remus nodded.  "I'm sorry, Harry.  From what I've heard, you did good work against him.  I was a bit cut off from the news out there; they didn't trust me, but I believed he was for the moment incapable of harming anyone…on his own."

"So he sent someone in his place," the boy finished.

"A demonstration of strength on the first day of term, to bring you back if possible.  I'm sorry, Professor," he said, addressing himself to Dumbledore.  "I wasn't able to warn you ahead of time.  I was being closely watched."

"I suspected as much, my boy.  We would've liked to have contacted you earlier this summer, but it proved impossible to locate you.  Harry's had a rather difficult summer, and your help would've been welcome."

Remus turned his worried eyes toward the boy.  "Harry?"

"Oh, everything's fine now.  And Professor Snape was there."  Remus' skeptical expression made Harry smile.  "I'll have plenty of things to tell you when you're better, but really, don't worry about me."

Remus looked up to Snape, before closing his eyes for a moment.  "I'm anxious to hear it, Harry.  But I'm afraid Madam Pomfrey's potions won't last much longer.  I hope to see you again soon; you'll be in the castle anyway."

"Oh well, actually, not really.  I've not returned to classes yet.  I’m staying at Snape Manor right now."

"At…?  Harry?" Remus was clearly fighting sleep, trying to seek an explanation for what he'd just heard.

"Oh, for god's sake," Severus grumbled, pulling a potion from his robes and handing it to Remus.

"Drink."

Without a word, the werewolf obeyed and seemed to regain his color.

"Thanks, Severus," he said softly. 

An impatient sigh was his answer.

"Professor Lupin," Dumbledore finally intervened, "Severus found you unconscious in front of Hagrid's hut.  He seems to have disappeared.  Have you any idea of what could've happened to him?"

"Yes, Hagrid was kidnapped.  It wasn't planned, at least to my knowledge.  When we arrived on the spot, he tried to stop the wolves before they got into Hogwarts.  They attacked him, of course.  I tried to object, but they turned against me.  I saw someone use a Portkey with Hagrid, but I don't know who it was, although I have a vague idea."  Turning toward Snape, he added, "Thanks, Severus.  I didn't know to whom I owed my rapid rescue.  According to Poppy, my condition was critical."

The Potions master shrugged.  "And who was responsible for this attack?  The wolves and werewolves together, that was a novelty. I doubt Voldemort was in any shape to organize this charming surprise."

Remus' eyes clouded over. "Fenrir Greyback was among the leaders.  Professor Dumbledore, might I speak to you privately?"

"Of course, my boy," the Headmaster replied. "But don't be uneasy about speaking in front of Severus.  His spying days are over, and he no longer runs the risk of having confidential information squeezed out of him."

Once again, Remus looked up at Snape, troubled.  "Congratulations, Severus.  That's a relief."  Then after hesitating, he continued, "Very well.  Voldemort found himself a new right hand man, a bit before his setback with Harry.  Someone in charge of coordinating attacks and…using his talents to conceive new tactics."

"I see," Dumbledore said. "Is this someone known?"

Remus' face twisted into a grimace.  "Loki."

Intrigued, Harry glanced quickly at the two professors present.  Only a glimmer of curiosity sparked in Snape's eyes as he stared thoughtfully at Remus, but Dumbledore seemed to have paled considerably, his shoulders stiffening all of a sudden.

"Remus, my boy…"  Then, pulling himself together, he said, "Severus, I believe that Professor Slughorn wishes to meet with you about the Slytherins.  He should be in his classroom at this hour, I assume."

The hint was undisguised, but Snape didn't dwell on it.  "Indeed.  Harry, if you'd transform again, it's time to go."

"Remus…" the boy said, trying to understand what had just happened right before his eyes.  "I'll be back," he said at last.  "I've so many things to tell you, really, as soon as you're better."

"I'm looking forward to hearing it," the werewolf replied with a smile.  "Take care of yourself, Harry.  Come back soon."

With one last smile, the teenager reluctantly transformed and jumped to the Potions master's shoulder.  He'd definitely missed something in that last exchange, but he sensed that his presence had hindered it.  Snape's as well, it would seem, who said goodbye to the two men with a nod, before heading for the infirmary door.

"We're going down to the dungeons," he murmured. "Stay calm, and don't transform back for any reason."

The cat dug its claws a bit deeper into the wizard's thick robes.  He wasn't stupid enough to parade about in the Slytherin dungeons, looking like his actual self!  And first off, who was this professor whom Dumbledore had mentioned?  Probably the new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, he thought.  He was curious to see what he might look like.

The trip to the dungeons seemed long and tedious, but they didn't come across any students in the corridors.  At this hour, they were all most likely in class, Harry thought with a twinge in his chest.  Ron and Hermione were probably somewhere close by with the other Gryffindors.

But as they went further down into the dungeons, he couldn't help but recognize the path they were taking: the one to the Potions classroom.  What was this Slughorn doing in that dreaded room?

He held on tighter to the professor's black robes as they passed through the door and entered the Potions classroom.  In front of them stood a pudgy little bald man, who came to greet them jovially.

"Severus!  What a wonderful surprise!  I wanted to meet with you about our Slytherins!  But please, sit down, you're at home here, after all," he said with a little laugh.

"Yes, it would seem so," Snape said icily.

"You know I hesitated greatly over taking this position in the interim.  It's a bit annoying, isn't it, after having been offered the full-time position?  But I understand that the circumstances…  Oh, but would this be our young friend on your shoulder?"

Given the professor's tenseness, Shadow understood that this was neither the time nor the place to confirm the little, eager-eyed man's suspicions.

"Perhaps," Snape replied carefully. "Might I deduce from this that you've definitely refused the Defense position?"

"Oh, I don't possess your courage," Slughorn answered.  "I intend a long and happy retirement, which will take up again as soon as you've resumed your duties as Potions professor and Head of Slytherin.  On that matter, I regret to inform you that our House is experiencing a bit of trouble, given the events of yesterday.  It would no doubt be good for you to put in an appearance to confirm that you're still alive."

"Probably wise," Snape admitted.  "Although I doubt the news of my death would be the cause for profound mourning amongst the students."

"It's rather serious, Severus," the little man continued. "I suspect they're plotting against you, waiting for your return.  Your…defection wasn't well-received by the Death Eaters' children."

"What a surprise," Snape said sarcastically. "Ah well, they'll have to deal with it.  And they'll also have to learn what's off limits, with myself as well as my cat. Starting immediately.  The class hour will soon be over; summon the troops to the common room, would you?"

"Certainly," Slughorn said as he waved his wand.  Then, as one, the two wizards headed for the Slytherin common room.

It hadn't changed much since his last visit, Harry noted, but as it filled with hostile-faced students dressed in green, he couldn't help but feel uneasy.  Did Snape know for sure what he was doing?  One false move, and they were both going to find themselves haunting Hogwarts to the end of their days!  Familiar gray eyes made him jump: Draco.  So he was still there, and seeing the murderous expression he wore, he was definitely among the students who had it in for Snape.

When the room was full to overflowing, the professor crossed his arms on his chest, wand in hand, and silence fell, all eyes fastened on them.  Perched on his shoulder, Shadow felt all of a sudden terribly vulnerable.

But when Snape finally began to speak, the wave of danger and pride he seemed to radiate quelled the cat's fears momentarily.

"I see you're all present.  It would appear, according to what Madam Pomfrey's told me, that not one of you was wounded during the course of last evening's attack. I cannot say that surprises me, but I'm nevertheless relieved.  You will certainly be happy to learn that Harry Potter came out of that invasion equally unscathed."

Murmuring could be heard throughout the room.  Shadow sensed more than felt the wizard begin to smile slightly.

"I don't doubt that you're delighted by this news.  In truth, that's for the best.  Among the little details that will change this year, when I return as Head of this House, you will want to take note that I demand—and mark well this word—I demand respect and protection for Mr. Potter from each one of you."

A collective gasp of surprise met his declaration.

"We are engaged in a war," he continued. "The time for pranking and House rivalries is over.  Let one of you simply claim to want to pose a threat to Harry Potter, and it will be my pleasure to have you expelled from this school before the day is out.  Those for whom these rules are not agreeable are free to leave the castle immediately."

A long silence stretched out after his words.

"On another matter…let it be clear that whatever your ambitions or feelings concerning myself, the slightest lack of respect or the least attempt to harm this cat will be severely punished.  And by that I do not mean any punishment written in Hogwarts' rules.  You'll have to deal with me and me alone.  Have I made myself clear?"

The professor's drawling and menacing tone seemed to strike straight at the hearts of his students, who kept their mouths shut.

"I'll very shortly be resuming my duties," he went on. "As professor as well as Head of House.  I'll continue to guide you, to protect you, to defend you if need be.  None of that has changed.  You'll find me available, as I've always been, and as much as your wish is to learn and progress, you will have all of my aid.  And whatever pressures you might encounter…"  His eyes swept over the crowd of students, stopping for an instant on Draco's pale face.  "Know that only your motivations interest me.  Know that there's always a way out.  Always."

With this last sentence, which left more than one student perplexed, Snape took his leave, as dignified as ever, his robes swirling dangerously about his boots as Slughorn trotted along to keep up with him.

"Well, well," the little man said when they in the corridor, "that went rather well, I think.  The message was certainly delivered, in any case."

"I dare hope so," Snape said thoughtfully. "I'm grateful for your willingness to see to my students during my absence, Professor.  Do not hesitate to contact me in case there is a problem."

"When do you plan to return, Severus?"

"Soon.  Soon.  If you'll excuse me, Professor, I must meet with the Headmaster before I leave.  Watch the Slytherins closely, and don't hesitate to make use of my personal stock of ingredients, if necessary.  The key for the cupboard at the back is under the first drawer of my desk."

"Ah, I confess I'd thought to ask you for access to it.  Thank you, Severus, and…take good care of our young hero," Slughorn said with a wink for the cat.

"I'll be certain to do so."

Turning on heel, the Potions master strode purposefully towards the Headmaster's office, the cat clinging firmly to his shoulder.

"Croquette!" he enunciated to the gargoyle at the opening to the stairway.  Shadow almost choked; he definitely missed laughing in his cat form.

The sight of the Headmaster's office, though, was enough to quash his desire to laugh.  The last time he'd come here…   But he'd not really come here, of course.  An illusion, an act…   Snape must've felt that something was wrong, for a hand came up to lightly rest against his fur.  The cat turned to meet the wizard's eyes.  He blinked: yes, everything would be fine.  He had to believe it.

There was the sound of footsteps approaching, but instead of the Headmaster, it was the familiar silhouette of McGonagall entering the office.

"Severus, how did your meeting with the Slytherins go?" she asked politely.

"As well as possible," Snape replied laconically.

"Tense, I assume," the witch said sympathetically. "It will pass, I'm certain, but it will take some time, and some…  A cat?"

Her eyes began to twinkle with a new light.

Holding back a grumble, Snape moved his shoulder to signal to Shadow that he could transform back again.  But instead of jumping to the floor, the cat only flattened itself a bit more on its perch, its heart about to beat out of its chest.

McGonagall.  Here, again.  He knew…but the knowledge was in vain.  Everything was so similar, and so…

"This cat needs some peace and quiet," Snape intervened.  "Is Albus available, Minerva?"

"I'm afraid not.  He shut himself in his rooms when he came back from the infirmary, and instructed me to tell you that he'll be in touch with you later in the day."

"I see.  In that case, I'll make use of the office Floo to return home, if that's not inconvenient."

"Wait, Severus!" the Head of Gryffindor said as the professor went for the grate. "Is this really Harry?  Would it be possible to..?"

"I'm sorry, Minerva, we must go.  I'm sure you'll have an opportunity to see Harry very soon.  Good day, and tell Albus to be sure to contact me posthaste."

"Of course," the witch said regretfully.  "Take care of yourself, Severus.  And…"

"Of Potter, I know.  Goodbye, Minerva."

And in a flash of green flames, he disappeared from the office, the cat on his shoulder.

They'd scarcely set foot in the laboratory at Snape Manor when Shadow jumped to the floor, soon replaced by a restless teenager who fell gracelessly into his armchair.

"Harry," Snape began, "to what do we owe that bout of panic?"

"I'm sorry," he said mechanically. "It was…too much."

"Hmmm," the professor said thoughtfully. "Indeed, perhaps we pushed things a bit too far.  Did seeing Professor McGonagall bring back bad memories?"

"Not really memories.  You know.  But it was…the same place, the same person.  I panicked."

"Understandable," Snape sighed.  He took a phial from the table and held it out to the boy.  "Drink.  This will help you."

Harry obeyed without a protest.  "What's that for?" he asked.

"You have a fever," Snape simply noted.

"Oh." Harry took a deep breath. "It was…awful, I think.  Do you think Remus will recover?"

"Without a doubt.  He seemed in rather good form to me, for someone who was attacked only last night by a pack of wolves."

"Do you know this Loki they were talking about?" Harry asked.

Snape looked at him hesitantly for a second before he answered, "No, but I hope Albus will tell me more this evening."

"There was something off," Harry went on.  "Dumbledore looked strange when Remus mentioned Loki, and he didn't seem to want to take about it in front of you."

Snape's face clouded over slightly. "Indeed.  Which means that you probably aren't supposed to investigate any further either."

"Hmmm," Harry said, running the pictures through his head. "It's odd how I'm more in tune to movements and expressions when I'm in my other form.  By the way, who was that professor?  Stuborn or something?"

"Slughorn," Snape corrected.  "Horace Slughorn.  Former Potions professor and Head of Slytherin.  I took up his position when he retired.  He's replacing me during my absence."

"But he was talking about a year-long position that he didn't get?  As Potions professor?"

Harry saw Snape tense suddenly.  Clearly, he'd touched a sensitive spot.

"Slughorn was actually supposed to take the Potions position this year, but Dumbledore withdrew his offer when it turned out I'd definitely be continuing on."

Harry's mouth dropped open.  "I don't understand.  You were planning to resign?"

"Solely from that position, and only for a year," the professor said, refusing to meet his eyes.

"But what were you planning to do instead?"

"Well, Mr. Potter, do you think my only talent in life is the mastery of potions? Once again, your confidence flatters me," Snape sneered.

"Stop that!" Harry cried, jumping up from his chair.

"Once again, you're giving in to your deplorable tendency for emotion and anger, Potter."

"You know very well what I'm talking about, and don't call me that.  So, answer me—what were you supposed to do besides teaching Potions?"

"I don't like your tone, Harry, and I don't recall having agreed that I have to answer to you, concerning my professional affairs."

"All right," the boy sighed. "I'm sorry.  I shouldn't have got worked up.  But will you answer me, please?"

Snape seemed to hesitate for a moment, before finally giving in.  "I was supposed to fill the Defense Against the Dark Arts position."

"Supposed to?  Why not anymore?  You've always wanted that position."

Harry saw Snape tense his jaw, his eyes still avoiding Harry's.

"My…abilities are now no longer up to the demands of the position.  I had to withdraw, but Slughorn didn't want to make a switch; he preferred to give up teaching."

"Your abilities," Harry murmured.  "You mean your powers?"

Once again, he saw Snape's jaw clench.  "Yes, I mean my powers."

"Merlin," the boy said as he realized.  "It's because of me; you couldn't take the position because of what you did for me."

"And here's exactly what I wanted to avoid," the professor groaned.  "Harry, when will you stop wanting to take responsibility for all the wrongs in the world?  Not that my incapacity is a good thing, in all honesty, but it's at most a slight inconvenience—temporary, what's more.  Nothing will prevent me from applying again next year, if I so desire."

But the boy was staring at him, his eyes so filled with guilt that the professor sighed with exasperation at the sight of them. "Harry, it's of no importance at all."

"It is," the boy murmured. "But in a sense…I'm happy you can't do it.  You were forgetting about the curse on that position."

"I'm not forgetting it," Snape replied. "Albus and I were in agreement that I'd resume my position as Potions master at the start of the next year."

"And you were still ready to take the risk.  To get yourself killed," the boy answered obstinately.

"It seems to me that we've already had this conversation," Severus sighed.

"But you never stop.  You said that about me one day—that I jump headfirst into every single problem.  But you're doing exactly the same thing!  How can I depend on you when you're putting yourself in danger all the time?"

"It's a question of how you see things.  I could be killed this evening by a broken tree limb, just as I could live long enough to replace Albus and his damnable white beard.  Harry, I cannot, and I have no intention, of living shut away in the dungeons so as to avoid all danger, even if the idea is tempting.  You saw the Slytherins' reaction a while ago.  Living at Hogwarts is itself a test of constant vigilance, for you as well as for myself.  But I'm taking the risk, Harry, and it costs me more to let you go there than to return there myself.  It's simply a question of priorities, I suppose.  To allow those you hold dear to live their lives…in the same way that giving up that position was a worthwhile price to pay for what the loss of my powers gave me in return."

If Harry'd thought he'd been surprised before, this last declaration left him literally speechless.  To allow those you hold dear to live their lives.  Had Snape just said that?  In front of him?  Speaking…of him?  He probably shouldn't have been so stunned, after what they'd lived through recently, but…

"You really meant what you said last evening, didn't you?" he suddenly asked.

"I always mean what I say, Potter," Snape said quietly.

"Don't call me…  The Slytherins, earlier.  They knew who I was?"

"Without a doubt.  And yes, I made a point of being seen with Harry Potter, in the Slytherin common room, in front of my entire House."

"And you threatened to expel them if they attacked me," Harry added.

"I doubt that sort of grandiose declaration will stop someone who is truly motivated, but let's hope it will give pause for thought to those who think they have something to prove."

"Thanks."

"You're welcome, Mr. Potter," Snape answered with a slight smile.

Harry smiled weakly. "It's not even noon yet, and I'm dead on my feet.  I really have to start exercising again before the start of Quidditch."

"It's not physical fatigue," Snape pointed out.  "Besides, you really do have a fever, so it's senseless to push yourself today.  Eating would do you the most good, on the other hand."

"I'll take care of the meal," Harry sighed as he stood. "That'll clear my head.  Do you think…"  He shook his head.  "Would a pizza be all right?  Homemade, obviously."

"Hmmm," the professor replied, seeming unconvinced. "Without anchovies, in that case."

"Without anchovies," the boy repeated with a slight smile. "One deluxe pizza, coming up!"

He closed the door behind him, leaving the Potions master shaking his head, disconcerted.  This was what he got for taking charge of a teenager raised by Muggles; he only had himself to blame.  But it this could make Harry happy, then he supposed a pizza would do.

He'd scarcely had time to start up his cauldrons again, when the characteristic sound of a Floo being activated made him turn around.

"Severus, is Harry with you?" Dumbledore asked, his eyes searching the room.

"He's gone up to fix something to eat. Should I call him?"

"Not at all."   The Headmaster took a step forward and entered the room.

"Has Lupin finally succeeded in making himself useful?" Snape asked dryly.

"Severus, it's more than past time to set aside your rivalries," Dumbledore reprimanded, his tone sharper than what the Potions master was accustomed to.

Snape narrowed his eyes.  "Lupin getting himself half-killed by his own kind certainly is not going to attract my sympathy.  The sentiment seemed to me to be entirely mutual, by the way."

"Severus," the Headmaster went on tiredly, "it wasn't from you that Remus wished to hide certain elements concerning his return.  Matters are more worrisome than they appear."

"This infamous Loki, I presume," Snape drawled. "Would Lupin have something to hide from his dear Harry?"

He watched the Headmaster's eyes glitter.

"I suppose that Harry's presence isn't going to do anything to calm your rivalries.  But you're right.  Remus doesn't want Harry to get wind of certain information.  Promise me that this conversation and the information I confide to you will not reach his ears."

Snape studied the old man for a long moment before nodding.  "It will remain confidential as much as possible; I can't promise you anything more.  Hiding information from the boy has only complicated matters, instead of simplifying them in the past.  I do not condone this strategy, Albus."

"Things are different this time.  It's about Loki…and Remus."

"I would've suspected as much.  I heard the Dark Lord speak this name several times, but I confess to not knowing anything more. It didn't seem very interesting to me from a strategic perspective."

"The facts have changed," the Headmaster sighed.  "And the first thing you must know, Severus, is that I actually managed to contact Remus Lupin after we'd discovered Shadow's identity, just a month ago.  I asked him to return as soon as possible to help Harry…but he refused."

A spark of interest kindled in the Potions master's eyes as he settled comfortably into one of the armchairs, a weak smile on his face.  "You have my undivided attention."