By chance, Remus and the Headmaster were both in the infirmary when they arrived at Hogwarts, with Snape more on edge than ever.

Followed by a markedly worried Harry, he entered the dormitory where Remus was, his robes billowing out furiously around him.

"Severus," Dumbledore greeted him. "I was hoping you'd visit. I've been led to understand that the meeting didn't go as well as we'd hoped."

"That excursion almost turned into a catastrophe," Snape growled. "And not only because of Fudge."

Turning to Remus, he added, "Your dear Loki attacked us right in the middle of Diagon Alley, no less!"

Remus' face crumpled at the words. "Loki? Are you sure?"

"Do you know many wolves capable of Apparition?" Snape asked sarcastically.

"Was he wounded?" the werewolf asked anxiously.

"Who? Harry?" Severus asked, the threat clear beneath the sarcasm in his tone.

"I…" Remus paled again. "Are you all right, Harry? You seem to be intact."

"Severus defended me," the boy agreed. "The wolf couldn't hurt me."

Distraught, but unable to hold himself back, Lupin turned to Snape again. "And Loki?"

It was Severus' turn to show his teeth in a grimace that was almost more menacing than the wolf's had been. "I sent him back to where he'd come from. I doubt he appreciated the treatment, but I neither wounded nor killed him. And believe me, I regret it."

"Thanks, Severus. I know it doesn't seem very clear just now, but I'm really grateful to you. Merlin, I'm so very sorry," Remus said in a pitiful voice.

"Oh, I'll leave you no illusions, Lupin," the professor growled. "If that animal crosses my path again, I won't waste my time by putting him in a cage. I'll kill him on the spot, without hesitation."

It was Dumbledore who broke the tension as he raised an appeasing hand. "That would not be reasonable, my boy. You reacted perfectly today. Might I ask where the Aurors were during the attack?"

"A bit further down the street. Loki attacked us at a bend in the street, just before the Leaky Cauldron. The Aurors arrived almost immediately. Have you already heard from them, Albus? They wanted to take Harry away with them, and I had to quickly Disapparate so their loyalties wouldn't be called into question in high places."

"Indeed," sighed the Headmaster. "Harry, would you be averse to keeping Remus company while Professor Snape and I discuss a few formalities in my office?"

"Excuse me?" the boy retorted as he crossed his arms. "Would I mind stepping meekly to the side while you discuss my fate? Yeah, I'd say so, a great deal! I understand very well that something went wrong, and I'm not going to let you decide things for me without my knowing anything!"

The Headmaster's eyes flashed, but it was Snape who spoke, placing a hand on the boy's shoulder. "We truly have matters to discuss, Harry, and certain of them do not concern you. Others, yes, and I promise to keep you apprised as much as is possible. We're not trying to hide anything from you, only protect you. Can you accept that?"

Harry thought this was very close to emotional blackmail…but what else could he say? "Don't make decisions without me, all right? I'm old enough to have a say in this."

Snape solemnly nodded, and Harry reluctantly did the same.

Without a word, the two wizards left the room; the boy fell heavily into a chair by Remus' bed. "I hate when they do that," he grumbled.

"Do what?" Lupin asked. "Ask you to be reasonable?"

"No, manipulate my emotions!" Harry said exasperatedly. "It's really annoying; he knows very well I won't be able to say no."

"You don't know how to say no to Snape because he speaks nicely to you? Things have really changed," Remus said, letting himself fall back onto the pillows, a slight smile on his face.

"That's just the half of it," the boy sighed.

"Harry, is everything all right?" Lupin asked with a frown. "You don’t' seem very content."

"Yes, of course I am. It's just I've had enough of never being allowed to decide anything. This matter with the Ministry—I know that's going to turn out badly. Dumbledore is my guardian for now, but that's only temporary. Severus says that Scrimgeour has dreams of keeping me under his thumb with a Ministry trusteeship. And it's not only that, I can't even go to Diagon Alley for my things without it turning into a catastrophe! I almost killed Fudge, and that Loki almost got me killed!"

Taking a deep breath, Harry fastened his eyes on his professor's. "Who is he, Remus? Loki? Why don't you want Severus to hurt him?"

Once again, Lupin seemed to have extreme difficulty meeting and holding Harry's eyes. "It's someone I knew long ago and lost track of until just recently," he replied.

"A wizard, then?" An Animagus like me?"

Remus hesitated an instant. "More or less. I can't say more, Harry, I'm sorry. It's one of those times when knowing more will do you more harm than good."

Frustrated, Harry shook his head. "You all say that and it's just not true! Severus seems to be starting to understand, at least."

Remus jumped at the chance to change the subject. "Harry, what exactly is going on with Professor Snape? The Headmaster told me certain things, but I'm not sure I've understood. You're living with him now?"

"Yeah, for now. Maybe afterwards as well." He took a moment to put his thoughts in order. "I get on with him very well, you know. Everything really changed this summer, Remus; I know it's hard to believe, even for me sometimes, but so many things have happened."

"Too many, perhaps," Lupin suggested.

"Probably," Harry sighed. "He's just saved my life again. It feels like he does that all the time."

"That's what I wanted to address, Harry, all that happened this summer, the horrors you lived through. You feel a debt towards Severus, and that's completely noble on your part. But maybe you're taking things too much to heart?"

"Listen, it's not like that," Harry said. "He protects me and he's there when I need him. It's not just because of Voldemort, or because of what I'm supposed to do, you understand. When Voldemort tried to steal my powers, he almost succeeded, and Severus was there to support me the entire time. And he told me…that it wouldn't be so serious if I didn't have anymore powers. That he'd always be there for me, no matter what. And that—that means a great deal. Everyone seems to be counting on the fact that I have to fight Voldemort. Severus just wants me to be myself, I think."

"Harry, I don't know what to think," Remus said gently. "You mustn't forget that Snape is an accomplished spy; he knows how to manipulate people expertly, and fake certain things…what you want to hear. He's done that all his life; he's a Slytherin, the head of Slytherin, and besides…an ex-Death Eater. I don't mean that's his intention, but he certainly has the capacity for it."

"It's not what you think!" Harry protested. "Too many things have happened, I know him now, without even considering…" He thought of the day when he'd entered the professor's mind and sifted through his memories, felt his emotions…but Severus certainly wouldn't have wanted him to tell Remus that. "I know him, all right? And Mum knows him too. And James and Sirius. They came to help us, to help Severus. Did you know that he and Mum went out a few times when they were at Hogwarts?"

Lupin slowly nodded, his demeanor grave. "Dumbledore explained that episode to me as well. Harry, is that why you think all of this? Because Lily took you to him when you were wounded? I know your mother loved Severus deeply, even more than James and Sirius ever knew…or Snape either, probably. But that doesn't mean he's the best person to take care of you, Harry. Severus has become a wholly ambitious and bitter person. He's changed since the time when Lily knew him, and I'm not sure for the good. I'm not saying he doesn't have his good points or qualities, but it's hard for me to imagine him in the role you're so determined to give him, Harry. It's hard for me to think he doesn't have ulterior motives."

There was more contempt in these words than Remus would've liked, and he regretted it when he saw the boy get up and take a step backward, his face pale.

"Severus has never said a word against you, Remus. He's never forbidden me to see you, or anything else. I can't believe you could say all this after…after…didn't Dumbledore tell you? He can't be the Defense professor because he doesn't have enough powers anymore, because he sacrificed himself for me, to protect me. He could've died!"

"But he's not dead, and you're eternally grateful…" Remus pointed out. Softening, he added, "Forgive me, Harry, I'm tired and my words haven't been well thought out. I don't want us to be angry with each other over Severus."

"If we're angry with each other, it'll be your fault," Harry said tersely, his arms crossed on his chest. "I won't stand for you talking about Severus like that, Remus. He's part of my life, and I want that to go on. I'd even like for him to…"

He shook his head. "I understand you're tired, and you've just come back from a mission; it must be hard for you. But you'll have to get used to this, because Snape is my guardian now, and I don't want that to change."

"I only want you to be happy, Harry," the werewolf said calmly, his gold eyes glimmering softly.

"I'm happy at the Manor," the boy answered. "I know I should be too old for this…to want someone to be there when I have a nightmare, or carry me off to bed, or even watch over me, or buy me robes and parchments for the start of term, but…" He shrugged. "But I want those things, and Severus is there for all of that. And he does it well…really well."

Harry couldn't hold back a smile. Yes, Snape was playing his role very well, even when it involved stepping aside himself, for Harry's own good. And Harry obeyed him, without protest, because he trusted him, deep down. It was right this way, too. It was what a father did, after all, or what one would've done.

He swallowed hard and turned to look at Remus, who'd continued to watch him, his eyes thoughtful now.

"This is really important to you, isn't it?" He sighed. "I'm sorry, Harry, I suppose I can understand. After all that went on with the Dursleys and Sirius. You have no memory of Lily and James, so you can't understand why I regret that you didn't have the chance to grow up with them."

"Yes, I understand," Harry protested.

"No, you don't understand what I mean," Lupin insisted. "But if you've found someone who can support you like you want, I can only be happy for you, Harry. Whoever it is."

The boy nodded. "So, try to get along with him, please. At least don't argue, especially about me. Because I don't want to choose between the two of you, all right?"

"Yes, I understand perfectly." Remus gave him a sad, little smile. "That said, I doubt Severus is ready to welcome me with open arms."

"He'll make an effort if I ask him."

Remus laughed softly this time. "You have him wrapped around your little finger, don't you?"

Harry couldn't help but laugh himself. "I don't think so…maybe just a bit? Don't tell him that, all right?"

"No," Lupin replied. "I wouldn't want to tarnish our dear Potions master's reputation. But promise me one thing, Harry. Be careful. I'm not saying Severus is pretending to be something he isn't, but try not to forget he wasn't always this person, especially with you."

Harry felt gloomy at these words. He wasn't at risk of forgetting this, and Remus was only putting words to his own fears. If Severus changed his mind again and became…Snape once more? But that was unthinkable just now, and he had every intention of making the most of it, even if it only lasted a short time.

Because, he thought, those moments would perhaps be the only ones of his childhood that resembled living in a family.

***

"Albus, you've lost your mind!"

"No need to lose your temper, Severus. First, listen to what I have to say."

"No chance that I'll let that animal attack Harry again without reacting!" the Potions master said indignantly, as he paced in the Headmaster's office.

"I'm not asking you to do nothing; your reaction today was wholly adequate, from all points of view. But we can't risk Loki's life, not now when he presents such potential."

"All of that is according to Lupin, and I have absolutely no confidence in him!"

"You're wrong," Dumbledore replied. "Remus can be very astute and diplomatic."

"But to go from that to playing a double agent? I don't believe it. Lupin is naïve and sentimental. He'll think only of Loki and fixing his mistakes."

"One will not preclude the other, if all goes well. It would even be the ideal solution."

"It's much too risky, Albus," Snape pleaded. "Loki is uncontrollable, even Lupin agrees on that point. And what's more, very disagreeable."

"I hold to my thinking that no creature is beyond redemption, nor totally corrupt," Dumbledore said gently.

"Even Tom Riddle?” Snape hissed. "Even Voldemort? You persist in repeatedly giving more chances to people who're not worth the trouble."

"By splitting his soul, Voldemort breached a frontier from which one does not return. Such is not the case with Loki. And even less with Remus. Severus, he also has the right to a chance."

But Severus shook his head. "Not at Harry's expense."

The Headmaster sighed. "As for Harry…things have been complicated by this morning's incident. The Minister didn't waste a minute; he wants to revoke Harry's guardianship and pull him out of Hogwarts, so as to not put the other students in danger."

"I suspected as much," Snape growled. "It was too good of an excuse."

"No chance they'll think the attack came from you, I presume?" Dumbledore asked.

Severus shook his head. "I was the one to make him stop. Our roles were unfortunately very clear."

"Then I'm going to have to find a solution to buy some time. Harry should stay at the Manor for now, if you don't foresee a problem with that."

"Buying time until Harry's of age isn't a solution. A permanent way of putting him out of the Ministry's reach must be found, so he can resume a normal life as quickly as possible. He must learn to control himself, that's undeniable, but he must return to Hogwarts if he wants to recover the equilibrium necessary to face Voldemort."

"Your ideas are as good as my own, Severus. For now, I see only one way to manage that, and it won't work. Harry doesn't trust me enough for his permanent guardianship to be awarded to me. Even with all my influence, I couldn't sufficiently sway the Ministry."

"Indeed, but I was thinking of something else. Do what you can to buy some time, Albus, a few weeks. So that Harry can return to Hogwarts and resume a normal life. Find all the excuses you want…and push through my adoption request."

"Severus?" The Headmaster had frozen in place. "You're serious?"

"I couldn't be more so. Work all the angles, including the protective wards linked to the Manor, if necessary. There must be some way to spin this Animagus matter…"

"Harry would be more than willing, so far as this adoption goes, Severus. He'd be the best argument in favor of it," Dumbledore offered.

"Precisely. But I don't want Harry to be informed right away. Buy some time, Albus. Leave it up to him, so he can make his choice with full knowledge of the facts," Snape said.

"You're still not sure of his feelings on the matter?"

"He's not yet fully recovered from all that happened to him this summer. He's attached himself to something that perhaps he'll not want before too long. Neither his friends nor his enemies will easily forgive this choice…"

"And you've promised him you'll let him decide," Dumbledore finished. "That's very noble on your part, my boy, but what's become of your sense of strategy?"

"You're lecturing me about manipulation?" Snape growled. "Will you support me or not?"

There was a long silence, during which the Headmaster seemed to be measuring the Potions master with his eyes. His arms crossed, Severus bore his scrutiny.

"You love him, don't you, Severus?" the Headmaster asked softly.

"He's my cat," Snape replied without batting an eyelid.

"You didn't answer my question," Dumbledore insisted. "You love the boy now, am I mistaken?"

"Like a son."

The hoarse tone of his voice left no doubt, and Dumbledore nodded. "In that case, my boy, I've no right to stand between the two of you. I will help you—both of you."

Snape thanked him with a quick motion of his chin.

"Will you help me equally, Severus? You could teach Remus what you know, instruct him on the subtleties of spying. He's going to need all the help he can get, if he wants any chance of successfully carrying out the mission he's undertaken."

"Would you also like for me as to help him take up his position here and take care of Harry?" Snape asked sarcastically. "But I don't think he needs me for that, evidently."

"Severus, Remus isn't here to take your place, not in the sense you think. We've never needed you as much as we do now, Harry in particular," Dumbledore said soothingly.

"I can't spy anymore, my powers are more than limited, and Harry will most likely want his independence again soon. I'm not stupid, Albus, my time has passed. But I'll see what I can do for Lupin, much good it'll do him."

The old wizard smiled. "Your powers will come back; this is only temporary. And I fear you underestimate Harry. The boy has an extraordinary capacity to love, and he seems very attached to you."

Leaning against the window, his eyes far away, Snape didn't seem to hear him. "It's best for him to go back to the Manor now; the Ministry won't be long in coming."

"On that matter, it'd be preferable for you both to stay here tonight. I must be able to present Harry to the Minister if he requires it, but I promise you he won't leave Hogwarts. Besides, perhaps it'd be wise for him to remain in his Animagus form during the interview."

"Hmmm," Snape said thoughtfully. "I suppose Harry should register as an Animagus sooner or later."

"For now, I've set aside that matter by explaining to Minister Scrimgeour that Harry's situation is very precarious and that his new powers might just as well disappear from one day to the next," Dumbledore explained, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Highly unlikely," Snape said.

"Completely impossible, of course," the Headmaster agreed. "But the argument sufficed to buy a bit of time."

"Perhaps something there to play with, in that case," Snape murmured. "I wasn't supposed to have known that Shadow was in fact a wizard when I took him in. I could've very well had him registered at the Office of Magical Creatures, under my own name, and thus, he belongs legally to me."

"Which of course would be of no legal value insofar as Harry is a wizard, but which very much complicates any proceedings to place him in trusteeship to the Ministry," Dumbledore finished. "That's completely brilliant."

"But it would've had to be done at the time I didn't know Shadow's identity, which wasn't the case. Is a back-dated document out of range of your capabilities?"

"Certainly not," the Headmaster said, his eyes sparkling more than ever. "I know the head of the Office of Magical Creatures very well, and she owes me a little favor…in all discretion, of course," he said, laughing softly.

"I wonder who in the wizarding world doesn't owe you a favor," Severus said bitterly.

"Alas, very few people are capable of remembering these little details, but Melinda Pikax certainly is one of them. She's a very good friend of Hagrid's."

"Any news on that matter?" Snape asked as he turned to the Headmaster.

"Unfortunately, no. I'm afraid we must wait for Remus to be in touch with Loki again."

Severus nodded. Counting on Remus. It was indeed the most unpleasant idea he'd heard in a long time. But clearly, he himself wasn't very functional as a spy these days.

A quick motion at the periphery of is vision caught his attention. With a clumsy move of his elbow, Dumbledore had just bumped the famous crystal candy dish sitting on his desk, causing it to fall dangerously to the floor. With reflexes honed by years of practice, Snape drew his wand and pointed at the object, before changing his mind in the middle of the incantation.

The stick of wood didn't vibrate between his trembling fingers, and no magic was forthcoming as a result of his action.

Lowering his arm, he watched as the candy dish shattered into thousands of little pieces on the floor, the lemon sweets scattering across the room.

Looking up, he met Dumbledore's clear, piercing eyes. Without a word, the old wizard flicked his wand and the crystal fragments flew to reform themselves on the desk, the cracks still visible despite the repair. Certain things couldn't be entirely fixed. Snape held his breath. The Headmaster hadn't been clumsy; he'd intentionally made the candy dish fall. Was there a message here he wanted to get across? That Severus himself would never be the same again, even if he regained his powers?

Putting his wand back inside his robes, Snape felt Dumbledore's eyes on him. Was that pity in his eyes, or was it contempt? He didn't want either.

"Severus, you must rest at all costs. Your powers will not come back if you don't give them time to regenerate."

"I don't call on them any more than necessary, but that little incident this morning obviously depleted my reserves. Loki, you recall?" he ground out. "I had to use a powerful dark arts spell to get rid of him without hurting him or having to turn him over to the Aurors. An Avada would've been so much simpler and to my tastes."

"Severus, do not attempt to change the subject. You must rest yourself completely if you want to recover. Failing that, you'll be at risk of not recovering all of your abilities," Dumbledore said severely.

"I know what I have to do," Snape replied curtly.

Dumbledore shook his head sadly, but didn't answer.

"I'm going to alert Harry that we're staying here tonight," Snape said finally as he looked away. "Best for him to stay in my rooms this time, if he must stay in his cat form, but he'll surely want to go up to see his friends. Can I assure him he'll be safe there?"

"Of course, my boy," the Headmaster said. "Minerva will make certain everything's in order. Don't hesitate to ask if you need anything; I'll let you know when the Minster arrives."

Nodding, Severus headed for the door. "If you require nothing further…?"

Dumbledore nodded his assent, with a gesture that strongly resembled defeat.

***

Walking through Hogwarts during its busiest hour with a cat on his shoulder was a particularly instructive experience. As he'd predicted, his reputation as 'the professor with a cat' seemed to have definitely taken hold. Shadow clung firmly to his robes, casting a curious eye at the students around them.

Unsurprisingly, the Hufflepuffs found his accessory especially 'adorable', which didn't fail to make the professor grind his teeth. The tender smiles, especially those of the girls tittering and smiling behind their hands, were met with a black look that cut their simpering short.

The Ravenclaws, who stayed in the background, watched the professor and his cat, as well as the other students, with impassive but piercing looks.

The Gryffindors seemed to vacillate between amusement, indignation and a strong desire to leap and snatch Harry from his perch, but no one made a move, contenting themselves with murmuring as they passed by.

And the Slytherins…the Slytherins, of course, displayed an unfailing hostility, standing silently, letting their somber and scornful eyes express their sentiments.

But Snape quickly discovered that all of these reactions left him indifferent. No sinister attack struck them, and the crowd parted for him as it always had. Probably his more than usual threatening manner wasn't wasted.

He was nevertheless relieved to shut the door to his rooms behind them, leaving the cat to jump to the floor and transform.

"I would've liked to take a photo of their faces along the way; it was really priceless!" Harry said as he burst into laughter. "I'm a bit surprised none of the Slyterhins tried to attack me, that being said. It was clear there were a few who were dying to do it."

"I suppose it wasn't the time to risk expulsion or death by hanging," Snape replied calmly.

"Death by hanging?" Harry asked in astonishment. "You're joking—that's really done?"

"It's a figure of speech. In any case, it'd be best for you to avoid moving about the castle by yourself for now, no matter what your form. This is not the time to risk a duel. If you want to go to the Gryffindor common room, use the Floo powder in the sitting room."

Harry stopped for an instant to look around him. Snape's rooms weren't anything like the Manor, and, strangely, they seemed to fit the professor better. The sitting room where they were standing was furnished with pieces that were clearly old and intricately carved, but marked by time. The décor was somber, if not severe, but the overall effect was one of peace and warmth that Harry would soon come to appreciate. The fire in the grate was lit, and a few brass chandeliers softly illuminated the room. A large wooden bookcase seemed to be the central fixture in the room, which hardly surprised him. A few scrolls lay on the side tables, scattered amongst parchments and sundry items.

In contrast to the Manor, the place seemed obviously lived in, and Harry felt oddly reassured. Even the dark, classic paintings on the walls seemed more like Snape. They appeared to be as old and venerable as the sitting room furnishings.

He couldn't help but point this out, as Snape was perusing a parchment.

"It's really different from the Manor. Not the same style at all."

Snape looked up, clearly interested by the subject. "I'm not the one who furnished the Manor. The pieces here are family ones."

"They seem old," the boy offered.

"Rather, yes." Setting the parchment aside, Snape pointed to a door. "My room is there. You'll take the one to the side of it when everything's been sorted out, after which you'll be able to return to the tower. It will take a bit of rearranging, but it should be quickly livable."

"I should maybe go and get my things at the Manor," Harry suggested.

"Bring what you'll need for several days," Snape advised. "We should be able to go back tomorrow, but things have a way of changing quickly nowadays."

"Is there something I ought to know?" the boy asked warily.

"Nothing more than I've already told you. Scrimgeour could create problems, but Albus will watch to make sure that doesn't go too far."

"That suits me fine, as long as I only have to play at being a cat and say nothing. And as long as they don't send me to the pound."

"There shouldn't be a problem. Albus and I had a little idea that might enable us to thwart any attempt by the Ministry to take you with them, but the notion is a bit twisted and rather degrading. Keep in mind that it's only a strategy to fight the Ministry."

Harry frowned. "A strategy? What?"

Throwing a handful of Floo powder into the grate, Severus connected with the Headmaster's office. "Albus, were you able to sort out the question we spoke of?"

"Completely, my boy. I was just about to come and find you. If you'll allow me?"

Snape stepped back, and Dumbledore entered the sitting room. He quickly held out a parchment to Snape, who glanced over it as he nodded.

"Perfect. That should suffice for the moment."

"Technically, they won't have any right to take Shadow from you," Dumbledore agreed.

Harry let out an impatient groan, so Severus handed him the parchment.

"Certificate of Animal Property named Shadow; race: feline; markings: black, lightning bolt on forehead; age: unknown. Holder of said animal: Severus Snape."

Harry was stunned speechless for a moment, before bursting into laughter.

"This is completely brilliant! I can't wait to see the look on Scrimgeour's face when he reads this!"

Snape relaxed visibly. "Of course, the document will be invalidated once you're registered as an Animagus. But then again, given the circumstances, that can wait."

Still laughing, Harry gave the certificate back to him. "I have to have a copy of that; I absolutely have to show it to Ron and Hermione! They're going to be hysterical!"

"I don't doubt it," Snape grumbled.

"On that matter, I indulged myself in a little whim," Dumbledore said apologetically. His eyes gleaming with mischief, he held out a small round object to Harry.

Curious, the boy took it and examined it, before beginning to laugh even harder.

"This is perfect! Thanks, Professor, I really like it a lot!" He held it out to Snape with a smile.

A medallion, the professor realized. The same type of medallion one would find on most cat collars. And on this one was engraved 'Shadow Snape.' He shook his head, hesitating between feeling amused and slightly uncomfortable.

He handed it back to Harry, who wasted no time in attaching the medallion to the bracelet he always wore. With a slight flick of his wand, Dumbledore tapped the bracelet, which quickly incorporated the medallion into its links.

"You could of course use an invisibility spell in your human form, but it will be visible in your cat form," the professor pointed out.

"I don't want the inscription to be hidden. I like it," Harry said firmly with a smile for Snape, which left the professor thoughtful.

"The Minister alerted me he'll be arriving a half-hour from now. I assume Professor Snape's already informed you how to behave during the interview, Harry?"

"Stay in my cat form, don't leave Snape, act afraid if someone gets close enough to take me, and don't transform for any reason," the boy recited.

"Perfect. There's no reason for things to turn out badly, but if it does, you could always escape through the door in my office that leads to my rooms, Harry. Fawkes will see to keeping you safe."

"As long as he doesn't mistake me for a mouse… Could I stop by the Gryffindor common room this evening? I really want to see Ron, Hermione and the others. It feels like years since I've seen them.

"This evening, if all goes well," Snape agreed. "But I'd prefer for you to sleep here, just in case."

"Me too," Harry admitted. "I'm going to see Hedwig as well. Oh, I'll have to take a look at the practice schedule!"

"Ah well, it seems it'll be up to you to arrange that, Harry," Dumbledore pointed out as he laughed softly.

"That's true," he suddenly realized. "Thanks for that, Professor, I'll do my best. I'll have to get a team together quickly; the Slytherins must've already started practicing."

"I think the Slytherins will also have to reform their team, given the recent departures."

Dumbledore and Snape exchanged a knowing look.

"As for you," Severus said as he turned to Harry with a threatening glance, "Dare to beat my team and you can say goodbye to cans of tuna. Unthinkable for my Slytherins to be beaten by a common alley cat!"

"Hey," the boy protested, "not my fault if they're unable to stay on a broom! And Malfoy as Seeker, that's really a joke. Anyway, it's not as if you don't have a vested interest in Gryffindor now," he said, proudly showing off his bracelet. "I could even take that as an official player's name. 'Shadow Snape wins the Cup for Gryffindor.' That would sound good, don't you think?"

"Little snake," Snape hissed, horrified. "I find it difficult to believe that Harry Godric Gryffindor would sink to such blackmail, so unworthy of a Gryffindor! Very well, you little rat, but make your choice: win with my name, or lose against my team, but whichever the case, don't you dare fall off that bloody broom if you don't want to find it confiscated for the year."

"I'll really make them think about this name thing, you know," Harry replied with a laugh. "It'd be a good way to make the other Gryffindors accept things. They really didn't seem happy earlier, when we were walking through the castle. Well, they were probably happier than the Slytherins, I guess."

The two of them exchanged a look before falling into silence, aware of the Headmaster's presence at their sides.

Suddenly feeling like an intruder, Dumbledore coughed into his hand before taking a step toward the fireplace. "Very well, very well, Harry, keep me informed of your arrangements. Severus, I'll call you when the Minister's arrived. Be ready, both of you."

And with these words, he threw a handful of powder into the fireplace and left the sitting room.

"Well," Snape said, once he was gone, "let's get your room ready, and we'll go for your things when we're all sorted out."

Harry followed him into the room he'd indicated, one that appeared to serve as the professor's office. He saw Snape pull two phials from his robes, then discreetly drink them. He quickly recognized them from their colors: energy and magic-strengthening potions.

"Professor, I can do it, if you want," the boy offered. Severus looked at him skeptically, raising an eyebrow.

"Really? You know how to transfigure an armchair into a bed?"

"I don't know," Harry confessed, "but I can try if you show me."

Snape nodded. "Focus yourself. Transforming large objects requires more power, but I think that won't be a problem for you. Remember Professor McGonagall's advice, and visualize precisely the shape you want to give this armchair."

Frowning, Harry concentrated, wand pointed at the armchair. A bed—a large bed with a mattress, red sheets, and a pillow. The green armchair at the other end of the room twisted for a moment, before stretching out into a rather promising shape. The boy took a step forward to admire his work: it really resembled a bed…from far away. The springs were twisted, it lacked a foot and the entire thing was rather unbalanced…but the basic idea was intact.

Without a word, Snape came to stand behind him, and took his right hand in his own. "Focus yourself. You'll get there." Guiding him with a precise movement of his wrist, he made the boy's wand dance in the air. This time, the bed seemed completely presentable, Harry decided with satisfaction.

"That's not bad, is it?" he asked.

"It's rather good. You can try to improve it later, if you need to." With a few flicks of his wand, Snape transfigured a stool into a chest of drawers, and put away a few items lying on the desk.

"Make yourself at home. You shouldn't be here long, but fix the room as you like."

"Do you think I could go up to the tower soon?" Harry asked.

"I think it'll be good for you to see your friends again, but I'd prefer to make sure it's without risk…for everyone," he replied.

"And…we'll still be going back to the Manor?" the boy asked.

"That will be necessary in order to train you discreetly. You're of course free to return there at any time; the wards are adjusted to allow you to enter. But it's unnecessary to bring all your things for now. I suspect we won't be settled permanently at Hogwarts for a good week."

Harry nodded, unsure about what he should think. He was practically certain that Snape wanted him at the Manor, but…

"I'm sorry about the Slytherins, Professor. Maybe it's not a good thing for us to be seen together so often, whatever form I'm in."

"Should I also apologize for the Gryffindors' reactions?" Snape sneered. "Do as you like, Harry. I'm perfectly aware that at your age the opinion of your friends is important. As for myself, it hardly bothers me. The Slytherins will have to get used to it, whether they like it or not."

"I don't think the Gryffindors will be angry for very long. They know you saved me, and…"

"And they're Gryffindors. But Harry, don't forget that Peter Pettigrew was also one; loyalty is one thing, but don't bank everything on the nobleness of your friends."

"At least the Slytherins didn't hide their feelings," Harry murmured, chilled.

"One must take things as they come. The immediate problem is Scrimgeour. In the event that he forces you to transform without us being able to prevent it, stay at my side, express your regrets concerning the incident with Fudge, and insist on the fact that I'm the only one able to control you. That’s a bit of an exaggeration, but we're going to have to put all of our eggs in one basket this time. Is that understood?"

The boy nodded and without waiting any longer, transformed into the cat. In truth, he felt almost impatient for the interview to begin…playing Snape's cat? How he'd missed that! Oh, he was going to be the most perfect domesticated tomcat that the Minister had ever seen.

That was the moment Albus Dumbledore chose to appear in the sitting room fireplace. "Severus, Shadow, the Minister is waiting for you."

They exchanged a quick look, then the cat jumped to the Potions master's shoulder in one agile leap. Together, they stepped purposefully into the green flames, Shadow firmly gripping the professor's shoulder.

The new Minister was definitely much more imposing than the last one, Harry decided, as he saw him for the first time, standing in front of the Headmaster's desk, staring at the new arrivals with piercing eyes. And he had a noble, even catlike manner, reinforced by his bushy mane that immediately impressed the cat.

Enough, anyway, so that it wasn't an act when Shadow hunched slightly down on Snape's shoulder, staring at the Minister with green eyes.

"Professor Snape, Mr. Potter," the Minister greeted them with a dignified nod.

"Minister," Snape replied courteously. Shadow stayed still, his whiskers quivering at attention.

"So this is Harry Potter, I presume," Scrimgeour began. "Would it be possible to speak to him in his human form?"

"Alas, I fear not," Dumbledore answered in a firm but amiable voice. "Mr. Potter is encountering some difficulties with his transformations, and they cannot be undertaken without certain precautions."

"That's regrettable," the Minister murmured. "The magical signature, however, is identical to that registered on Mr. Potter's Magical Profile. I deduce, then, that I indeed have before me the one guilty of the aggression perpetrated against Cornelius Fudge this morning, during the course of an official mission."

"Innocent until proven guilty, Rufus," Dumbledore said softly. "In addition, Mr. Potter only reacted in a manner—as brief as it was intense—to a clear-cut provocation on the part of your official. It seems that merits consideration."

"Which will be the case," Scrimgeour replied. "Harry Potter will be treated like any other minor guilty of magical aggression against another wizard."

"Accidental magic," Snape interrupted. "Mr. Potter had no desire to hurt Cornelius Fudge; it was a simple matter of accidental magic incited by the very inconsiderate words on the part of your predecessor."

"You're claiming it was a matter of accidental magic, at age sixteen? Potter long ago passed the age of being able to use that excuse!"

"We're talking about the same boy who was kidnapped from the Ministry, Minister," Dumbledore said, his voice laced with threat. "Kidnapped by a Death Eater, and tortured over the course of several days by Voldemort. Don't you think that certain events might produce…unusual responses?"

"It's a matter of wandless magic, Albus, and in a location where all offensive magic should've been impossible!" roared the Minister. "The boy is much too unstable and uncontrollable; his new power makes him dangerous for all who come into contact with him, especially the students of this school! He must be put under the protection and trusteeship of the Ministry as quickly as possible."

The cat shivered and burrowed in a bit more against the Potions master. A slender hand came up to his neck, while the two wizards continued to argue over his fate.

"There is one person in particular who is completely able to control Mr. Potter, and who proved it just today. Harry needs a supporter and permanent guide, and he's found him," Dumbledore went on.

All eyes turned to Snape and his cat.

"An ex-Death Eater?" Scrimgeour asked sarcastically. "Which explains a great deal. You're losing your mind, Dumbledore, and I'm far from being the only one to think it!"

"An ex-Death Eater who's brought us precious information at the peril of his own life for years, and who saved Harry Potter once again, just a few days ago," the Headmaster pointed out.

"Be that as it may, he's clearly not a positive influence for the boy! You were supposed to be watching over him, Albus, and instead of that, you entrusted him to a person known to hate your protégé!"

"I did what was best for him," Dumbledore cut in. "What's more, I really didn't have a choice; Harry made his choice."

Scrimgeour shook his mane, staring at the Headmaster disgustedly. "You're stark raving mad. Stark raving mad. But this absurd situation is coming to an end immediately; I have a warrant here, rescinding your guardianship of Potter, taking effect straight away. Cat or human, he must accompany me to the Ministry, far from your influence, old man. Don't force me to bring the Aurors into this. It seems to me this young man has had enough drama in his life recently."

Shadow felt his heart begin to race, as Dumbledore held a parchment out to the Minister with a smile. "I'm afraid the situation isn't that simple, Rufus."

The Minister rapidly ran his eyes over the document; his face immediately became scarlet. "This is a joke! This document is worthless!" he roared.

"Of course," Dumbledore said peaceably, "but as Harry's not recognized as an Animagus, then Shadow must be considered a magical creature…that belongs to Professor Snape."

Shadow blinked his eyes mischievously. This meeting was really becoming amusing. Deciding to add a touch of his own to the little scene, he let himself slide to Snape's chest; the professor had no other choice but to take him in his arms, where the cat curled up.

"Harry is very attentive to Professor Snape's advice, and is entirely devoted to him…a relationship that is reciprocal," he explained calmly to the Minister. "It's the best solution for Harry, trust me. Isolating him will only make him more fragile. He needs support and a mentor who can be consistent with him in his excesses, and that person happens to be Severus Snape. Accept it, Rufus."

The man scrutinized the professor calculatingly, as Snape held the cat in a position that was both defiant and defensive. As for the cat, he seemed perfectly at ease in the arms of the dreaded professor and Death Eater…ex-Death Eater.

He wasn't going to win this round, not now, the Minister understood. The risks would be too great if he were to force things, and Snape was now becoming very popular in the Wizarding world, given his exploits at Godric's Hollow. The man had always wanted recognition, and Snape certainly wasn't going to let him take Potter without having something to say, even less likely with the Headmaster's support.

"Very well." He could see the relief wash over the room's three other occupants.

"Mr. Potter will stay here for now. I expect him to remain under control, visible to the Ministry and the rest of the world…so far as his safety will allow. The question of his guardianship will have to be sorted out, however; this situation cannot go on. I don't want to hear any more talk of aggression, and I want regular reports. As well as Mr. Potter's registration as an Animagus."

"That last point still has not been resolved, Rufus. Harry could very well lose this ability again, from one moment to the next."

"Nonsense," the Minister grumbled. "You have until the end of the year at the latest to register yourself, Mr. Potter. Failing that, you'll be prosecuted by the Wizengamot."

The cat's eyes glittered, and Snape's thumb lightly caressed his side to reassure him.

Scrimegeour thought to himself that there was something interesting in that gesture, as he stepped through the fireplace to return to the Ministry. And certainly something to be gleaned from all this new information.

In the office, the three wizards let out light sighs of relief.

"Well, well, that didn't go all that badly," Dumbledore commented.

"It was almost too easy," Snape said thoughtfully. But he still didn't release his hold on the cat, even a bit.

"We shouldn't expect a lasting victory to come from this evening, but at the very least, the Minister seems ready to give us some time."

"On the condition that Harry stay visible, in other words at Hogwarts," Snape answered.

"That was foreseeable," Dumbledore agreed. "Scrimgeour is most likely counting on an incident, whether it's provoked by Harry or someone else. Any good reason to pull him permanently from my guardianship, for his own good or that of the other students, with the support of their parents."

The cat stiffened in the professor's arms.

"Well then, all there is for us to do is to make sure that doesn't happen," Severus stated simply.

The cat jumped to the ground and transformed immediately. "Does this mean we're staying at Hogwarts?" Harry asked.

"I suppose we hardly have a choice," Snape replied. "Of course, if something threatens you, you will return to the Manor at once. Senseless to tempt the devil—even Scrimgeour can understand that."

"Back to the Manor for weekends? I know that's not really done, but…" He shrugged. At his side, Snape's expression softened.

"I suppose there's no rule against that. Even so, since when do the rules apply to the Boy Who Lived?" the professor grumbled as he rolled his eyes. But his tone was light, and Harry sensed that Snape was as satisfied as he was at this prospect.

"Your place in the Gryffindor dormitory is of course always open, Harry," Dumbledore said. "But I think it best for now if you settle into Professor Snape's rooms, at the very least until we're sure you're not at risk. That wolf attack on the first day of term has still not been completely resolved."

"That's fine with me. Sorry to put you out, Professor," Harry offered with a hesitant look at Severus.

"Hmmm, don't forget that you belong to me," the Potions master said with a slight smile. "I’m supposed to provide for your needs—here as well as at the Manor."

"I'm not forgetting," Harry answered, displaying his bracelet, the medallion clearly visible.

"In that case, it's time to go and collect your cat-bed and bowls," Severus jested lightly. "Leave what you don't think you'll need right away at the Manor, and bring the rest with you. No need to weigh yourself down."

Throwing a handful of powder into the fireplace, he announced his destination. With a motion of his hand for Harry to stay behind, he thrust his head and chest into the flames.

All seemed calm at the Manor, the wards not indicating any intrusion. It was highly unlikely, really, but two precautions were better than one, especially when it came to Harry Potter. Or Shadow Snape.

Merlin, would the boy ever cease to astonish him? He'd been afraid of Harry's reaction to Dumbledore's stupid gift, but the boy had been delighted. How could he be so enthusiastic at the idea of wearing that despised name, even as a game? He himself could hardly bear its implications. The only tangible memory that remained of his Muggle of a father, that hateful man who'd made his childhood intolerable. A name which he himself had actively dishonored

But clearly, the boy had seen something else in it. His desire to belong to someone, to have a family, someone he would count on, to the point of forgetting how much he himself had hated that name the last few years. Did Harry even realize this? Probably not. But a return to his friends and the routine at Hogwarts wouldn't fail to shake him from his stupor. And Remus was there now.

Snape shook his head. All the implications of these past weeks came together in a mishmash of confused emotions in his mind. Emotions that Severus had conscientiously guarded himself against, ever since that night when Lily had died to protect her son.

He would've liked to ponder it, to take time to carefully untangle the threads of the story, to pull something clear and analytical from it in the end, but he was incapable of it.

He wasn't capable of much anymore, he thought bitterly. He was tempted to venture one more step and go into the laboratory to take one of the potions sitting on the table. But he'd taken some several hours ago, and it was too soon for them to restore a semblance of efficiency to his powers

Closing his eyes for a second to make certain his mask of impassivity was well in place, he pulled himself back into the office.

"All is well. You can go," he informed the boy. When he made as if to follow him, Dumbledore stopped him with a gesture of his hand.

"Severus, might I speak to you for a moment in private?"

The Potions master shot him a weary, annoyed look. Harry was waiting, obviously hesitant about what he should do.

"Take your time, and meet me in my quarters," Severus instructed him. "You only have to announce, 'Professor Snape's rooms, Hogwarts.' The password is Thestral."

Nodding, Harry stepped forward into the flames, then out into the laboratory.

Thestral. Had Snape chosen that word by chance, or was he thinking of their escapade at the Ministry of Magic several months before?

Shaking his head, he looked around him. He'd not been alone in the Manor since…since the time when he'd been Shadow, and only Shadow, he thought. The time when all Snape had seen in him was a lost cat, when Harry'd tried to comfort the Potions master when he'd come back, broken, from his missions.

Things had changed since then, and he didn't see the Manor in the same way. Yet, he still had this feeling of coming home.

A bit ill-at-ease despite that fact, he left the laboratory and headed toward his room. What exactly was he supposed to take with him? Severus had told him not to weigh himself down…

He opened his trunk and began to take out what seemed indispensable for the few days between then and the weekend. Trousers, shirts, two robes. This one was too small, he thought, as he put it back into the trunk. Maybe Hermione could make it slightly larger…

The vision of Madam Malkin's shop suddenly struck him. Oh. Severus had bought him enough clothes so he'd never have to bother with an enlarging spell! He couldn't help but blush as he recalled the scene. Severus had been really generous…and pleasant, despite his nervousness.

Harry hesitated for an instant before putting the old robe back into the trunk. Despite the number of robes he now had, he couldn't bring himself to throw out a garment. The Dursleys would've certainly killed him if he'd even dared to think of such a thing.

He felt a vague wave of nausea wash over him. The Dursleys would've no longer had a say in it, even had they still been alive. And he really would've liked for them to be alive at that moment. To go find them and show them the medallion on which his other name was engraved, to show them the piles of new clothing that Severus had bought for him. For him, only for him, in his own size, and according to his own tastes.

He chased the thought away as he set aside a few things he'd need right away. His toiletries…his broom…the photo album that Hagrid had given him.

His eyes drifted to the photo that still stood on the nightstand. He couldn't help but smile; he wouldn't risk leaving that behind.

Rummaging in his trunk, he pulled out an old canvas bag, into which he shoved all of his belongings. Not much, really, but what pleased him the most in this entire matter was finally being able to leave the rest of his things in his room.

His. Room.

With a smile, he closed the door behind him. Maybe he could bring a few Quidditch posters the next time he came back. Ron always had quite a few that he spent his time sticking up in his room, only to replace them rather quickly, for lack of space on the walls.

Harry paused for an instant in front of the steps. Severus himself had told him to take his time. Was there enough time to go up to the next storey and take a quick look at that infamous room?

No, he caught himself—that would be disloyal. Even if Severus had said he could make himself at home. Groaning, he went down to the laboratory, vaguely frustrated.

That weekend, he promised himself, he'd ask Snape…

With a last look at the dungeon, he threw a handful of Floo powder in the fireplace and stepped through to the sitting room in Snape's rooms.

He stopped abruptly at the scene in front of him.

It would appear that Snape had arrived ahead of him…and he wasn't alone. Seeming more than a bit guilty, Dumbledore turned his eyes toward Harry, his wand pointed at Snape's body, which was floating in the air. He had just enough time to set him carefully on the settee, before a furious black cat jumped between him and the professor, its eyes burning with rage.

The room seemed to suddenly vibrate, and the old wizard felt himself pushed backward by an invisible force.

"Harry, let me explain…"

The cat quickly transformed into the teenager, his wand aimed at the Headmaster's chest. "How dare you?! Get away from him!" he hissed. "I trusted you!"

"Harry," the Headmaster sighed, "I've the impression we've already lived through this scenario, and I've no intention of trying to disarm you this time, believe me."

The force trying to push him backward was much more powerful, now that Harry'd transformed back, and Dumbledore caught himself struggling to keep his shields in place.

His eyes still glittering in anger, Harry cautiously stepped back to place a hand on the side of the professor's neck, without looking away from his target for an instant.

The muffled yet distinct sensation of a heartbeat reassured him slightly.

"What have you done to him?" he growled.

Once again, the Headmaster wore that guilty expression as he looked at the unconscious professor on the settee. The intensity of the magic surrounding him had lessened, but he could feel an electric hostility dancing around him. Harry didn't seem to realize, but Dumbledore could clearly see now what had so frightened the ex-Minister.

"I put him to sleep, Harry. I didn't have a choice. Severus would've never agreed to truly rest, and his health is in great danger of suffering from that. Poppy Pomfrey alerted me this morning that she'd run a quick diagnostic charm, unbeknownst to Professor Snape, and discovered that he'd in no way begun to recover his strength. In reality, Severus would've probably collapsed within a short time."

As the boy was still staring at him, his eyes full of distrust and accusation, the Headmaster decided to take a seat, and motioned to Harry to do likewise.

"Lower your wand, Harry. We have to talk."

Harry reluctantly obeyed before sitting beside the still unconscious Severus.

"You took him by surprise, didn't you?" Harry asked.

"Yes," Dumbledore sighed. "I would've preferred to explain this all to you in…less dramatic circumstances, but you arrived sooner than I'd anticipated, Harry. I regret having to spring this trap on Severus, and I'm very sure he will himself undertake to make me regret it when he awakens. But the fact is that Professor Snape is now no longer able to judge what is good for himself."

"You're exaggerating," Harry replied, beginning to have doubts. Severus hadn't looked very well recently, had he? And he certainly didn't seem to be regaining his strength. He'd spent his time swallowing potion after potion. "He's a Potions master," he went on. "He knows what he's doing."

"In truth, Severus has been relying a bit too much on his precious potions lately. Fatigue, and the excess of magical substances, have certainly contributed to give him a false impression concerning his state of health," Dumbledore explained calmly.

"But…he's going to get better, isn't he?" Harry asked, all mistrust forgotten. Dumbledore felt the offensive magic filling the room fade little by little.

"Of course, my boy," the Headmaster reassured him quickly. "Professor Snape really just needs sleep, a long rest without the pressure of having to protect you."

"He's not really slept since I've been there, I suppose," the boy murmured, recalling all the nights when Snape had come to comfort him after a nightmare.

"Severus was already in need of rest well before you arrived, but the events of this summer have without a doubt depleted his reserves. Especially that episode of sacrificial magic."

Harry felt his heart clench. They were down to it now; it really was his fault.

"Severus was much too proud to admit it, but he was no longer capable of watching over you adequately," Dumbledore continued.

The boy jumped to his feet. "I forbid you to say that!" he roared, his hand clenching his wand. Once again, the walls shook under the effect of uncontrolled magic.

"Harry, Harry, I expressed myself poorly," the Headmaster was quick to add. "I wanted simply to say that Professor Snape no longer has the physical and magical capacity to defend you in the event of an attack, not without placing himself in grave danger."

"He did it just this morning," the boy countered challengingly.

"At the price of the last of his reserves, I'm afraid," Dumbledore added. "Harry, the spell he cast during Voldemort's attack goes well beyond a simple defensive spell. It's a matter of an ancient, complex magic that is not without consequences." He settled a bit deeper into his armchair, his eyes intense.

Harry crinkled his eyes, preparing for the worst.

"You're aware that in managing to cast that spell to protect you, Professor Snape accepted the risk of dying," Dumbledore began. Harry slowly nodded. "That didn't happen, thank Merlin. But the entirety of his strength, both magical and physical, were drained by that spell and placed at the service of sacrificial magic. Severus will recover his abilities with a great deal of rest. But his magic has been permanently affected, and that is something that will not change. Even when Professor Snape will have regained all of his powers, he will nevertheless have limited energy at his disposal."

Harry gasped in surprise. "You mean…like a battery?"

Dumbledore nodded. "Wizards have a natural and effortless access to their magic. It is not usually limited for anyone endowed with magical ability. Unfortunately, that will not be the case with Severus Snape."

Harry was flabbergasted, his eyes darting automatically to the sleeping professor's face. "That's not possible…is there anything that can be done?" he asked frantically.

"I'm afraid not," Dumbledore said as he shook his head sadly. "But I wouldn't worry too much, Harry. Professor Snape is a very powerful wizard. Once he's recovered his strength, it would take extraordinary events to empty him of his magic. That shouldn't in any way affect his everyday life, or how he personally conducts his classes, such as they are. You must know that Severus mustn't for any reason exceed his limits, and that is the reason why I was forced to do what I've done today."

It was Harry's turn to shoot the Headmaster an apologetic look.

"I'm sorry I was so hostile, Professor. I really thought…I'm a bit on edge recently, I think."

"Completely understandable, my boy. I only hope you'll understand my motivations. I doubt such will be the case with Severus, though," Dumbledore said with regret.

"I know you were right to do it," Harry said reassuringly. "But you laid a trap for him, and that's really not very loyal. I'm sure there were other ways."

"Would you have been cross with Severus if he'd done the same for you, Harry?" Dumbledore asked gently.

"No," the boy said, after he'd thought for a second, "but it's not the same."

"And why not?"

"Because he's…he's my…it's different," he protested.

Dumbledore kept silent, but Harry could see the sparkle in the blue eyes as they stared at the unconscious Potions master, and suddenly, Harry understood. Without a word, the old man got up and lifted his wand again.

"Severus will be better off resting in his bed, especially for a long sleep," he said, his voice strangely gentle.

"How long do you think he'll sleep?" Harry asked anxiously.

"As long as possible. Several days, ideally, for his strength to replenish itself."

Several days. Several days without Severus. Harry felt his anxiety building, and a strange feeling of emptiness. Dumbledore must've sensed it, for he continued to speak reassuringly.

"Severus took your protection very much to heart, Harry, but rest assured, I won't let anything happen to you in his absence. You'll stay here, as planned, and someone will accompany you when you want to go out. If you like, you could take your meals in the Great Hall."

Harry nodded. "Snape knows about his powers?" he asked in a low voice, as if he were afraid that the professor might hear him.

"Of course. He didn't want you to know about it, so as to not—and I quote—'add to your bloody propensity for assuming guilt.' I also suspect he was afraid that you'd see him differently, if you came to understand that his powers had become unstable. Rather curious as it might seem, it would appear that Severus is at last concerned about someone else's opinion," Dumbledore said with a mischievous smile.

"That's ridiculous," Harry protested. "He's the bravest man I've ever known! And certainly not because his powers…" He stopped for an instant, a memory suddenly flashing through his mind. That day in the laboratory, when Voldemort had almost stolen Harry's own powers, Snape had reassured him by telling him it wouldn't change a thing. And now in the end, it was Harry who was in this delicate situation. Life truly was ironic.

But one thing was sure: he certainly wasn't going to think less of Snape over a matter of powers.

"And anyway," Harry said out loud, "even with limited powers, he'll still be more powerful than most wizards, that's for sure."

Dumbledore smiled at him. "Without a doubt, my boy," he said, with a hint of pride in his voice. Then, raising his wand toward the professor, he incanted, "Leviocorpus."

Harry shuddered. "I don't think Severus would approve."

"Well, what he doesn't know won't hurt him, will it?" Dumbledore answered. Harry hurried to open the door to the room, and a moment later, Snape was lying on his bed. His face seemed anything but relaxed, Harry noticed. How was it that even in sleep, the man could seem so forbidding? It was physically impossible.

After assuring himself of the professor's comfort, the Headmaster cast an, "Accio Severus' pyjamas!" without success.

He looked at the chest of drawers disconcertedly. "I suppose Severus took most of his clothing to the Manor. Well, that's not a problem."

With a quick incantation, he changed the professor's robes into large, black pyjamas, as Harry looked on dubiously.

"Hmm, Professor, I don't think Snape will really appreciate the thought. As far as I know, he sleeps fully clothed, with his wand in his hand."

He thought he saw a brief glimmer of pain pass through Dumbledore's eyes. The old wizard quickly said, "Ah, well, Severus doesn't have to worry any longer about being summoned or attacked while he sleeps."

Having made sure that the Potions master was settled in, Dumbledore headed for the door. A backward glance made him startle: Harry had disappeared! But a little black figure quickly changed his mind.

With a leap, Shadow had jumped to the bed, before curling up against the professor. He looked up at the Headmaster and blinked.

I'm staying.

Dumbledore nodded. "If you don't appear in the Great Hall to eat, I'll ask Dobby to bring your meal here. Rest well."

The cat blinked again and rolled itself into a ball.

As he closed the door on his two children, Dumbledore thought he heard a slight purring sound, and his heart constricted.

So much wasted time…